Chapter 956 The Coldness and Warmth of Human Relationships, the Treasure of Inheritance!
Lu Changsheng did not go to the Reception Hall to receive the visitors who had come seeking favor or to investigate the situation. Instead,
he and Chu Qingyi went to the top of Yangming Peak and gazed into the distance from the railing.
They chatted softly, enjoying the rolling sea of clouds and the towering sword-like peaks,
while keeping a close eye on the situation in the Reception Hall and on every cultivator entering Yangming Mountain.
With his current strength and reputation, there was no one among the visitors worthy of his personal reception or hospitality.
This book is first published online by 𝕥𝕨𝕜𝕒𝕟.𝕔𝕠𝕞. It would be
better to entrust everything to his son, Lu Lingxiao.
This would also give him an opportunity to hone his interpersonal skills and demonstrate his abilities in front of various powerful forces. Inside the Reception Hall, Lu Lingxiao
,
dressed in a dark gold dragon-patterned brocade robe and wearing a gilded mask, sat upright in the central seat.
Although he had only recently entered the mid-stage of Core Formation, he showed no stage fright when facing the late-stage Core Formation cultivators, Grand Core Formation True Persons, and even Nascent Soul True Monarchs.
His demeanor exuded a composed and dignified air.
These cultivators, in turn, treated Lu Lingxiao, the son of Yangming True Monarch and the young city lord of Great Dream Immortal City, with humble expressions and beaming smiles.
Their words and expressions even carried a subtle hint of respect and flattery.
Even Nascent Soul True Monarch, when conversing with Lu Lingxiao, showed no airs of a senior, speaking and laughing as if they were equals.
It could only be said that the identities of "son of Yangming True Monarch" and "both parents at the Nascent Soul stage" were incredibly valuable,
placing him on par with many Nascent Soul cultivators.
At the summit, Lu Changsheng, with his arm around Chu Qingyi's slender waist, was deeply gratified by his son's behavior.
When speaking with Yuan Qi Zhenjun, he was respectful and courteous yet composed, neither servile nor arrogant, and always appropriate.
When receiving cultivators from other forces, he was equally measured and courteous.
It was evident that his years as the young city lord of Da Meng Immortal City had honed his competence and ability to navigate situations with
grace and composure. "Young City Lord, this is but a small gift to express my sincere gratitude. I will come with my senior brother to discuss this further after your mother's Nascent Soul ceremony.
"
Yuan Qi Zhenjun was slightly disappointed not to see Yangming Zhenjun.
However, he still presented the generous gift he had prepared beforehand to Lu Lingxiao.
He believed that once Yangming Zhenjun opened the gift box, he would understand his family's intention to submit.
"I thank you for your kindness on behalf of my parents," Lu Lingxiao said solemnly, accepting the gift with both hands.
He knew that Yuan Qi Zhenjun had been waiting outside for so long, and must have something important to discuss. However,
for someone breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage and stabilizing their realm was of paramount importance, he dared not disturb them and could only pass the gift on to himself.
Seeing Yuanqi Zhenjun depart, the other visitors in the hall stepped forward to offer their congratulations and gifts.
At this moment, an old man hurried forward.
His face was filled with anxiety, and his eyes were filled with unease as he bowed deeply to Lu Lingxiao, his voice trembling slightly as he said, "Elder Chiyunzi of Zicang Mountain pays respects to the young city lord!"
Instantly, all eyes in the hall turned to Chiyunzi.
Most of those present knew about the feud between Zicang Mountain and Yangming Zhenjun.
The enmity between the two sides even dates back more than thirty years.
At that time, when the Hansha Illusionary Domain opened, Zicang Mountain's ancestor, Zicang Zhenjun, and a group of cultivators besieged Qingluan Zhenjun.
As a result, they were killed by Qingluan Zhenjun and Yangming Zhenjun, who was still a Core Formation cultivator, and even his Nascent Soul spirit body was devoured by Yangming Zhenjun's spirit pet.
Not long ago, Qingcang Zhenjun of Zicang Mountain, along with Yin Lei Zhenjun and others, went to the Great Dream Immortal City to provoke trouble, but were suppressed by Yangming Zhenjun.
Under these circumstances, the purpose of the people from Zicang Mountain coming to Yangming Mountain is self-evident.
Lu Lingxiao's expression remained calm and unchanged. He raised his right hand slightly and said, "Elder Chiyunzi, there's no need for such a grand ceremony. Please rise and speak."
"I wonder what brings your sect here today?"
He naturally knew about the matter concerning Zicang Mountain.
Chixuanzi, however, dared not rise.
Still bowing, he held a treasure box engraved with intricate deep purple patterns in both hands, raising it high above his head. With a hint of sorrow, he respectfully said, "Young City Lord, please understand! My ancestor was momentarily confused, bewitched, and offended the divine majesty of True Lord Yangming. He deserves to die!"
"Today, on behalf of Zicang Mountain, I offer the inherited treasure, the [Purple Extreme Azure Profound Stele], and the sect's millennia-long accumulation, only asking to be attached to the tail of Yangming Mountain, to be at the service of True Lord and Young City Lord!"
"As for my ancestor... we are well aware of his sins and dare not ask for exemption. We only beg True Lord to show leniency
and spare his life." At this point, his voice was filled with a helpless plea: "The entire Zicang Mountain will do its utmost to persuade my ancestor to repent and atone for his sins!"
After speaking, he bowed deeply to Lu Lingxiao.
The cultivators in the hall couldn't help but gasp.
Unexpectedly, the once-powerful Zicang Mountain chose to surrender with all its might, hoping for a glimmer of hope for Qingcang True Monarch.
However, upon reflection, everyone understood the reasoning. With
Qingcang True Monarch suppressed, Zicang Mountain was without a Nascent Soul cultivator to guard it; its destruction was inevitable.
While they could abandon Zicang Mountain and flee for their lives,
how easy would it be for independent cultivators to make a living?
Moreover, the rise of most Nascent Soul forces was accompanied by bloodshed and plunder.
Once they lost power, they would inevitably face the reckoning and revenge of their enemies.
The attitude of Yangming True Monarch was especially crucial.
If Yangming True Monarch declared his intention to purge Zicang Mountain, countless cultivators and forces would likely be willing to carry out the extermination.
Rather than that, it was better to submit to Yangming Mountain and seek a way out.
Seeing the once mighty force, boasting two Nascent Soul True Monarchs, now reduced to a pathetic struggle for survival, the cultivators present were filled with mixed emotions.
They deeply felt the majesty and power of True Monarch Yangming.
Now, True Monarch Yangming's Daoist partner, Li Muwan, was also suspected of condensing a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul, making Yangming Mountain's power rise like the sun, unstoppable!
The cultivators then looked at Lu Lingxiao, who sat in the main seat,
wanting to know how he would decide.
After all, as True Monarch Yangming's own son, his presence to receive everyone represented True Monarch Yangming's will.
If he nodded and spared Zicang Mountain, the matter would be half settled.
Above the sea of clouds at the summit, Lu Changsheng
, who was talking with Chu Qingyi, saw this scene and a hint of interest appeared on his face.
He wanted to see how his son would handle it.
Lu Lingxiao's pale golden eyes, hidden behind his gilded mask, calmly watched Chi Yuanzi in a kneeling posture, without immediately responding, his fingers tapping on the armrest. Under Lu Lingxiao
's gaze, Chi Yunzi, a late-stage Core Formation cultivator, couldn't help but break out in a cold sweat, as if facing the scrutiny of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.
The gentle tapping on the armrest, in particular, seemed to resonate deep within him.
After a moment, Lu Lingxiao leaned back slightly, exuding an air of noble authority, and spoke calmly: "Elder Chi Yunzi, my father has his own considerations regarding your sect's Azure Sky True Monarch." "
However... since your sect is so sincere, I will inform my father.
As for this gift," he said, taking the jade box from Chi Yunzi's hands.
The jade box was extremely heavy.
Had he not possessed third-level body refinement and cultivated the "Nine Transformations of True Spirit," he would have nearly lost his footing.
However, its weight alone indicated that the treasure within was extraordinary.
Upon hearing this, Chi Yunzi's heart sank.
Accepting the gift without a promise offered at least a glimmer of hope!
He suppressed his grief and humiliation, bowing deeply to Lu Lingxiao: "Thank you, Young City Lord! The entire Zicang Mountain will forever be grateful for the kindness of the True Lord and the Young City Lord!"
"If the Young City Lord has any requests, please give the order. We will go through fire and water without hesitation!"
He knew that Zicang Mountain, without a Nascent Soul True Lord to oversee it, was unworthy of being commanded by Yangming True Lord.
"Elder Chi Yuanzi, you flatter me," Lu Lingxiao said calmly.
After Chi Yuanzi sat down, an envoy from Luo Yu True Lord's faction stepped forward to present congratulatory gifts.
"Elder Helian Feng of the Mobei Alliance, on the orders of my Alliance Leader, has come to congratulate Madam Li on achieving Nascent Soul!"
Although his expression was respectful, he was not as humble as Chi Yunzi.
First, according to rumors, Luo Yu True Lord was the only one to escape among the five cultivators who went to Da Meng Immortal City to cause trouble, and therefore did not need redemption.
Second, his faction, the Mobei Alliance, was not a family-based power like Zicang Mountain.
Belonging to a relatively loosely organized faction, and with a Nascent Soul True Monarch in charge,
their visit was merely to apologize and sever ties with True Monarch Luo Yu.
They indicated that their two alliance leaders were unaware of True Monarch Luo Yu's affairs. They expressed a
desire for future cooperation and interaction between the two factions.
Under these circumstances, they wouldn't have gone to such lengths as Zi Cang Mountain, even surrendering their entire clan as an apology.
"Elder Helian, you are too kind. I will inform my father of your alliance's intentions. If the opportunity arises in the future, I will certainly visit the Mobei Alliance."
Lu Lingxiao remained calm, accepting the congratulatory gifts without showing any anger over True Monarch Luo Yu's situation, nor making any explicit promises.
Aside from Zi Cang Mountain, the other forces that came to offer congratulations did not attract much attention.
However, the Golden Wind Magnolia Pavilion, founded by True Monarch Golden Wind and Lady Magnolia, received no visitors, causing some forces to sigh in dismay.
Previously, the Golden Wind Magnolia Pavilion, with its two Nascent Soul True Monarchs, was undoubtedly a dominant force.
However, with the suppression of True Monarch Jin Feng and Lady Yu Lan, the organization immediately crumbled, scattered like leaves in the wind, and not a single person came to their aid.
The coldness of human relationships was evident.
Apart from a handful of people, most cultivators finished their congratulations and left.
Lu Changsheng didn't see anyone with ill intentions.
This was normal.
Not long ago, five Nascent Soul cultivators went to the Great Dream Immortal City to cause trouble; four were suppressed, and only one escaped.
Even Luo Fuzi, a giant from the Northern Region, seemed to have suffered a defeat.
Under such circumstances, who would dare to cause trouble at Yangming Mountain?
Moreover, most of those who came to offer congratulations and gifts were at the Core Formation stage.
What evil could someone of that cultivation level do?
They were simply using this opportunity to see if they could meet True Monarch Yangming and his Daoist partner, Li Muwan, to gather some useful intelligence.
If they didn't see them, they wouldn't force it.
Night fell, and the guests dispersed.
After settling everyone in, Lu Lingxiao returned to Yangming Peak, intending to report the day's events to his father once he was finished.
However, upon entering the main hall, he found his father chatting with his sister, Lu Wangshu.
"Father, Sister Wangshu,"
Lu Lingxiao immediately realized that his father had been waiting for him for some time.
"Xiao'er, are you done?"
Lu Changsheng looked at his son with approval in his eyes and smiled, "You did well today, thank you for your hard work."
Lu Wangshu looked at her composed and proud younger brother and teased him with a grin, "Tsk, Lu Lingxiao, you're getting more and more impressive. I heard from Father that you were even chatting and laughing with a Nascent Soul True Monarch."
Lu Lingxiao ignored her and stepped forward, saying, "It's all thanks to Father's formidable reputation."
He knew very well that others didn't truly respect him.
Instead, it was out of reverence for his identity—the son of Yangming Zhenjun!
Lu Changsheng chuckled, gesturing for him to sit down and share his thoughts, his opinions on the current power dynamics.
Lu Lingxiao pondered briefly, then said, "The various forces, intimidated by Father's prestige, have adopted vastly different attitudes. Yuanqi Zhenjun's visit this time was very courteous; I believe he intends to submit."
"Oh?" Lu Changsheng raised an eyebrow, asking why he thought so.
"As far as I know, Hunyuan Zhenjun's lifespan is limited; even with longevity-enhancing elixirs, he can only live for a hundred years at most."
"And Yuanqi Zhenjun's physical body was destroyed by Jiuling Zhenjun, damaging his cultivation path, making further progress impossible; he can only maintain the status quo."
"Now that Father's prestige is widespread and rising like the sun, Hunyuan Sect naturally needs to consider its future...
"
After his conversation with Yuanqi Zhenjun today, Lu Lingxiao had guessed his purpose.
Otherwise, the other party would never have waited outside for so long, and would not have visited with Hunyuan Zhenjun earlier.
It's highly likely that once news of his father defeating the five Nascent Soul cultivators spread, Hunyuan Zhenjun made his decision and came with a desire to submit.
However, he ran into his master who was condensing a Nascent Soul.
"Hmm." Lu Changsheng nodded and continued to ask, "Zicang Mountain and the Mobei Alliance, what do you think I should do?" "The
people from Zicang Mountain who came today are terrified and humble, willing to surrender their entire clan and offer everything for survival. I believe they can be taken as vassals."
"Firstly, the Liangyue War has only recently ended, and the Jiang Kingdom has just been pacified. Father can use this opportunity to demonstrate benevolence. Secondly, Zicang Mountain is a Nascent Soul power with a thousand-year history, and its foundation is still considerable..."
"As for Qingcang Zhenjun... I don't understand the implications."
If Zicang Mountain could persuade Qingcang Zhenjun to submit, Lu Lingxiao was inclined to spare his life.
But the latter had offended his father, and he couldn't act rashly.
"The people from Zicang Mountain shouldn't have left yet, right? In a few days, tell them that I will spare their ancestor," Lu Changsheng said with a faint smile.
He had already placed restrictions on the five True Monarchs of Azure Azure, rendering them slaves and servants, requiring no further persuasion from the Purple Azure Mountain.
However, as Lu Lingxiao had said, Purple Azure Mountain, as a Nascent Soul power, possessed considerable resources and could be brought under his control.
Having Purple Azure Mountain as a vassal would give True Monarchs of Azure Azure an additional weakness in their service.
"Father is benevolent," Lu Lingxiao nodded.
Lu Wangshu, standing nearby, asked, "Father, what if True Monarchs of Azure Azure refuses to submit?"
Because Nascent Soul cultivators were usually aloof and elusive, they held onto a strong bias. They
believed that Purple Azure Mountain harbored old grudges against their family, and True Monarchs of Azure Azure might not be willing to submit.
"You don't need to worry about that," Lu Changsheng waved his hand, signaling his son Lu Lingxiao to continue.
"The people from the Northern Desert Alliance seem to be offering their congratulations in a grand manner, but in reality, they are testing the waters. Although they have severed ties with True Monarch Luo Yu, in my opinion, if True Monarch Luo Yu escapes back to the Northern Desert Alliance, they will definitely protect and cover for him.
" "If this matter is easily let off the hook, it would be too lenient. A slight deterrent would contrast with subduing Purple Azure Mountain and pardoning True Monarch Azure Azure." " However
, the Northern Desert Alliance is far away in the Endless Desert, and there are Nascent Soul cultivators stationed there... " Lu Lingxiao was unaware that True Monarch Luo Yu had also been suppressed by his father. He believed that deterring the Northern Desert Alliance and the forces in the Endless Desert from protecting True Monarch Luo Yu, and even helping to capture him, would be the best option. However, he knew that his family's strength depended entirely on his father. If others went to the Endless Desert, the Northern Desert Alliance would not be able to form an effective deterrent. Lu Changsheng smiled slightly and released a message: "True Monarch Luo Yu has been subdued by my father." "What!?" Lu Lingxiao and Lu Wangshu were both shocked upon hearing this. "Didn't True Monarch Luo Yu escape? How come he's been subdued?" The siblings instantly realized the rumors were wrong. None of the five Nascent Soul cultivators who went to challenge the Great Dream Immortal City escaped; all were suppressed by their father! Even though they were often shocked and had their understanding overturned by their father's strength, the siblings were still amazed and moved. "True Monarch Luo Yu has been subdued, and Father spared True Monarch Qingcang... Doesn't that mean... " Lu Lingxiao's mind raced, realizing that the previous five Nascent Soul cultivators had likely all been subdued by his father and brought under his command. A wave of shock surged through his heart. If you included the Hunyuan Sect, which intended to attach itself, and True Monarch Fenmo and True Monarch Youyue, who had been subdued in the Liangyue War, his family's number of Nascent Soul cultivators had already exceeded two hands' worth. With such a number of Nascent Soul cultivators, and with his father, a Nascent Soul giant, in charge, his family could be considered a behemoth in the Northern Region! However, he knew in his heart that outsiders were unreliable; his own family was the foundation! Just like today, the Purple Cang Mountain, which had given everything, and... The trees had fallen, the lake was scattered, and not a single person from the Golden Wind Magnolia Pavilion had come! These outside Nascent Soul cultivators, even if they surrendered to his family, would they truly serve him wholeheartedly? If his father were to suffer any mishap, he would likely end up like the cultivators of the Golden Wind Magnolia Pavilion... He didn't dwell on it any longer and handed his father the gift boxes from Yuan Zhenjun and Zi Cangshan, as well as the list of today's congratulatory gifts. Lu Changsheng took the list and glanced at it. Then, he flicked open the gift box from the Hunyuan Sect. Inside lay a gray gourd about a foot tall. It appeared simple and ordinary, but the intricate and mysterious patterns interwoven on its surface seemed to possess a life of their own, slowly flowing, revealing its extraordinary nature.
Beside it was a jade slip detailing its effects:
The Primordial Chaos Gourd!
One of the most treasured heirlooms of the Primordial Chaos Sect.
It could refine and purify various spiritual objects from heaven and earth through the "Primordial Chaos Qi" contained within the gourd, ultimately transforming them into incomparably pure [Primordial Chaos Spiritual Liquid].
This spiritual liquid was an unparalleled treasure for Primordial Chaos Sect cultivators practicing the "Primordial Chaos Technique."
It could greatly increase cultivation speed, purify mana, and even repair one's foundation and enhance potential.
Even without practicing Primordial Chaos Sect techniques, this spiritual liquid could cleanse the marrow and refine the body, assist in cultivation, and refine magical artifacts.
"Pop!"
Lu Changsheng uncorked the gourd, and a wisp of chaotic energy immediately escaped.
A brief examination revealed that the [Primordial Chaos Gourd] was only moderately effective. It
was far inferior to his own [Dew-Collecting Plate]. It was
even inferior to the [Ten Thousand Ghosts Blood Pool] of the Yinming Ghost Sect.
However, for a powerful force to offer a treasure crucial to its lineage's inheritance, its sincerity in seeking refuge was self-evident.
After all, possessing this gourd meant controlling the very lifeline of the Hunyuan Sect's disciple training.
The Hunyuan Sect would have to provide a large amount of resources in exchange for a fixed amount of spiritual liquid.
Besides the [Hunyuan Qi Gourd], the box also contained rare fourth-tier spiritual materials such as Nine Heavens Meteorite Iron, Ten-Thousand-Year Wood Heart, and Aurora Illusion Crystal.
These materials were extremely valuable to early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators.
However, for Lu Changsheng, who had repeatedly become incredibly wealthy, they were rather ordinary.
Nevertheless, the Hunyuan Sect was merely an ordinary Nascent Soul power.
Sending such a generous gift was already a show of sincerity, a significant expenditure, bringing out the sect's entire foundation.
Lu Changsheng nodded slightly, accepting the item, and then opened the gift box presented by Zi Cang Mountain.
A stele, approximately nine feet tall and three feet wide, with a deep, dark hue, flew out of the box.
The surface of the stele seemed to be formed from the condensed night sky, with numerous tiny star-like points resembling natural stars.
These star-like points were not static objects; they moved and flickered extremely slowly across the surface of the stele.
Seemingly chaotic and without any rules, Lu Changsheng immediately recognized its resemblance to his own [Mysterious Heavenly Spirit Vine Pattern], suggesting the evolution of some complex and profound rules and order.
He covered the stone tablet with his divine sense, observing it carefully.
After a moment, his eyes shone brightly, and he exclaimed, "What a magnificent Purple Extreme Azure Profound Tablet!"
Through his observation, this tablet was likely crafted from some kind of spiritual object nurtured by heaven and earth, containing patterns related to the celestial bodies.
However, the patterns of heaven and earth rules within it were incomplete and had not yet fully developed before being refined into this [Purple Extreme Azure Profound "Buzz"
Tablet].
Compared to his own Mysterious Heavenly Spirit Vine, it was clearly a level below.
Lu Lingxiao and Lu Wangshu, seeing their father praise the ancient tablet, examined it closely but could not discern its depth and mystery, nor how it surpassed the Primordial Chaos Gourd.
It wasn't that their eyesight was too shallow;
rather, this [Purple Extreme Azure Profound Tablet] was far too profound.
Even two early-stage Nascent Soul cultivators couldn't grasp its essence as quickly as Lu Changsheng.
Only a mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator's divine sense could comprehend its mysteries.
Lu Changsheng looked at Zi Cang Mountain's description of the ancient stele's effects.
First, by observing the stele's stellar rotation, one could comprehend Zi Cang Mountain's inherited cultivation technique, the *Purple Extreme Azure Profound Scripture*!
Second, those who cultivate the *Purple Extreme Azure Profound Scripture* could use this stele to visualize and comprehend the true meaning of the Purple Extreme Azure Profound, making cultivation twice as effective!
Third, long-term observation of this stele would benefit the cultivator's soul from the overflowing Azure Profound Purple Qi.
Fourth, connecting the [Purple Extreme Azure Profound Stele] to the spiritual vein array could nurture a portion of Azure Profound Purple Qi every sixty years, serving as a Nascent Soul spiritual object.
Zi Cang Mountain, as a family-based power, had developed to its current state, possessing two Nascent Soul cultivators, undoubtedly due in part to this treasure.
However, after reading the description, Lu Changsheng couldn't help but shake his head.
It was truly a waste of a precious resource.
Compared to the [Primordial Qi Gourd] sent by the Hunyuan Sect, this [Purple Extreme Azure Profound Stele] is the true heirloom!
Its value is in no way inferior to the [Ten Thousand Ghosts Blood Pool], the heirloom of the Yinming Ghost Sect!
However, it was refined into a natal item by the ancestor of Purple Azure Mountain as an heirloom, preventing it from further growth and even causing its grade to drop.
As a fourth-tier array master and fourth-tier divination master, Lu Changsheng discerned the rules and patterns of arrays and divination from the flickering stars on the ancient stele.
If he could fully comprehend the changes in the celestial sphere, he could not only evolve it into a certain stellar array but also comprehend a certain divination technique. However, since
the stele was incomplete, the array and divination patterns were incomplete, making it difficult to comprehend and manifest.
"Purple Azure Mountain, you deserve to die!"
Lu Changsheng cursed inwardly.
However, there was nothing to say about this.
Ninety-nine percent of cultivators who obtained such a rare and precious treasure would not consider its future potential but would instead think of refining it for their own use.
"Although the array patterns on this stele are incomplete, they subtly correspond to the changes of the celestial bodies. If one can comprehend them, their power as the foundation of a grand stellar array will undoubtedly increase exponentially."
Although this Purple Extreme Azure Profound Stele was ruined by the Purple Azure Mountain Ancestor,
in Lu Changsheng's view, it was still a rare top-tier spiritual object, suitable as the foundation of Yangming Mountain's grand array.
As for the cultivation technique within, the "Purple Extreme Azure
Profound Scripture," he had no interest in comprehending it. However, he could obtain it from True Monarch Azure Azure to enrich his own library.
Seeing the siblings constantly examining the Purple Extreme Azure Profound Stele, Lu Changsheng spoke up, briefly explaining the mysteries of this ancient stele to them.
"Every time this stele completes a full cycle of its rotation, the Purple Star at its center will release a trace of Azure Purple Qi, which nourishes the soul of cultivators."
"Furthermore, the trajectory of the stars on the stele contains profound principles, which are of great benefit to your formations and talisman arrays. You can study these techniques more often."
Lu Changsheng pushed the Purple Azure Purple Stele in front of the two of them.
This level of Azure Purple Qi had no effect on his soul now.
He then instructed his son, "You and Wangshu should check and store today's gifts. If there are any items suitable for your cultivation, you may take them."
"Thank you, Father!" Lu Wangshu immediately cheered.
"Thank you, Father." Lu Lingxiao also bowed in thanks.
"By the way, condensing the Nascent Soul is a joyous occasion. Cultivators from Yangming Mountain and the Great Dream Immortal City will be generously rewarded as is customary to celebrate."
In the past, whenever there were major happy events in the family, Lu Changsheng would celebrate with the entire clan.
For example, in the early years, when Lu Miaoge broke through to the Core Formation stage, when a member of the Lu family reached the Foundation Establishment stage, or even when a child was born, there was a custom of issuing double salaries or extra rewards.
Now that Honglian has broken through to the Nascent Soul stage, he naturally won't be stingy.
"As for Yangming Mountain, I have already made arrangements,"
Lu Lingxiao said
. "Furthermore, I believe that we can take this good news to celebrate nationwide and exempt the subordinates from paying tribute for ten years as a celebration, to demonstrate Father's benevolence and appease the people. In the past, forces such as Qingzhu Mountain and Bihu Mountain had to pay tribute to the Qingyun Sect. Now that
the Jiang Kingdom has changed hands
, the forces under its rule should naturally pay tribute to Yangming Mountain.
However, the war between Liang and Yue has just ended, and the old hegemonic forces such as the Tianjian Sect and the Qingyun Sect have relocated. The Jiang Kingdom's structure is not yet settled, and the smaller forces should recuperate.
" "Agreed," Lu Changsheng said with an approving expression, feeling that his son was more thoughtful than himself.
Although he had become the ruler of the Jiang Kingdom, he had not yet adjusted his mindset, placing himself in the position of a ruler and still only caring about his family and clan.
"Father, when will Master's Nascent Soul Ceremony be held?" Lu Lingxiao continued to inquire.
Breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage is a celebration for any power, inviting various forces to demonstrate their strength and prestige.
Or, it's an opportunity to expand their network, amass wealth, and collect congratulatory gifts.
Many forces have visited today, but it's not considered a formal congratulation.
"The Nascent Soul Ceremony? Let's set it for a year from now."
Breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage is a momentous event!
It would be unreasonable not to invite various forces to celebrate.
Moreover, news of Honglian's breakthrough to the Nascent Soul stage will spread quickly, and people will come to visit one after another. It's better to hold a grand ceremony.
With me in charge, there's no need to worry about anyone causing trouble.
"I'll arrange the wine, spirit fruits, and other things. You can coordinate everything else."
Although the ceremony can be an opportunity to amass wealth, the wine, spirit fruits, and banquet delicacies are quite expensive.
If the quality is too low, it will give the impression of insufficient resources or being stingy.
However, for Lu Changsheng, who is now wealthy and powerful, there is no need to worry about this.
"Father, rest assured!" Lu Lingxiao replied solemnly.
He knew this grand ceremony was crucial to Yangming Mountain's image in the eyes of the major powers of the Northern Region.
It was imperative to ensure it was handled with utmost care and success!
Chapter 957 Xuanjian Breakthrough, Lu Yunxiao's Helplessness!
As the cultivators gathered outside Yangming Mountain departed one after another, the news that Yangming Zhenjun's Daoist companion, "Li Muwan," had broken through to the Nascent Soul stage and was suspected of condensing a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul spread like wildfire throughout Jiang Kingdom.
Then it spread to neighboring Yue Kingdom, Jin Kingdom, Liang Kingdom, and even more distant regions.
It was estimated that it wouldn't be long before it reached the ears of all the major powers in the Southern and Northern Wilderness.
Normally, a cultivator breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage wouldn't attract such widespread attention.
At most, it would be noticed and known in the local area and surrounding regions.
However, in recent years, Yangming Zhenjun's reputation had become incredibly powerful.
From his early display of prowess in the Hansha Illusionary Domain to his crushing defeat of the Yinming Ghost Sect, quelling the Liangyue War, suppressing five Nascent Soul cultivators, and causing the Northern Region giant Luo Fuzi to suffer a crushing defeat...
these events had made him a key focus of attention for all the major powers in the Southern and Northern Wilderness.
Not only him, but even those around him were closely watched by various spies and intelligence agencies.
Under these circumstances, the breakthrough of his Daoist partner, Li Muwan, to the Nascent Soul stage was naturally top-level intelligence.
Especially since it was suspected to be a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul.
All spies used the highest-level communication methods to relay the news back to their respective factions.
The two Daoist partners, Youyue Saintess and Fenmo True Lord, who had surrendered to Yangming True Lord and were stationed at Yuling Mountain and Luoxia Mountain respectively, received the news immediately after the Liangyue War ended.
They were stunned.
The news that Yangming True Lord's Daoist partner was suspected of condensing a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul shocked them no less than Yangming True Lord's suppression of the four Nascent Soul cultivators and repelling Luo Fuzi.
After all, as Nascent Soul cultivators, they knew the difficulty of breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage.
Like Youyue Saintess, who relied on the secret method bestowed by Moro and used the Blood Abyss, refined with all the resources of Beast God Mountain, to condense a lower-grade Earthly Dao Nascent Soul.
Fenmo True Lord, even more so, relied on the foundation of the Asura Sect and overdrawn his life potential to barely break through to the Nascent Soul stage.
Therefore, the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul was unattainable for them, like a frog at the bottom of a well gazing at the bright moon.
Yu Ling Mountain.
The Holy Maiden of the Nether Moon stood atop the main peak, looking at the message jade slip in her hand.
Her attire was no longer the short skirt and strapless dress of her youth, full of allure and unrestrained.
She wore a perfectly tailored, deep purple, form-fitting robe.
The robe, seemingly made of satin but not quite, had a dark, matte sheen, tightly wrapping her proud curves, revealing only her beautifully sculpted neck.
However, her breathtakingly alluring figure and remarkably long, beautiful legs still exuded a unique, wild beauty.
Only her expression was no longer as domineering and flamboyant as before, but rather cold and melancholic.
"Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul...
"
The Holy Maiden of the Nether Moon parted her red lips slightly, silently uttering these four words, then pressed her lips tightly together.
In the past, she felt utterly humiliated to become a concubine of True Lord Yangming.
But to save her ancestor and revitalize Beast God Mountain, she had no choice but to endure it.
As Yangming Zhenjun's reputation continued to rise, making him a top figure in the Southern Wilderness and Northern Regions, a sense of urgency gradually welled up in her heart.
Now, with her Daoist partner having condensed a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul, her urgency intensified, turning into anxiety and a sense of crisis.
She felt that if things continued this way, let alone rescuing the Ancestor and revitalizing Beast God Mountain, she feared her own value would gradually diminish...
After all, she hadn't seen Yangming Zhenjun since those "several days."
Under such circumstances, how could she conceive his child? Rescue the Ancestor?
Moreover, at the Nascent Soul level, procreation was inherently difficult, not something that could be accomplished in a mere few days.
And her Beast God Mountain cultivation method further increased the difficulty of pregnancy.
If Yangming Zhenjun also had this problem, it would take at least hundreds or thousands of days for them to conceive.
Given their situation, when would they be able to have hundreds or thousands of pregnancies a day... ?
Thinking that Yangming Zhenjun had never taken the initiative to see her, Fang Qingyou knew that she had to take the initiative...
"Take the initiative...
"
This thought had been lingering in her mind for a long time.
The mere thought of having to take the initiative hundreds or thousands of times filled Fang Qingyou with shame, humiliation, and helplessness, making it difficult for her to make a decision.
Now, she knew she couldn't delay any longer.
Waiting for the other party to take the initiative would likely mean the end of time, exhausting her ancestral spirit and nascent soul's essence.
She closed
her eyes and took a deep breath. The humiliation and melancholy churning in her vertical pupils were suppressed, transforming into a resolute, cold light.
Returning to her cave, she looked at herself in the mirror.
Her gaze was calm and indifferent, as if examining a gift about to be given away, devoid of any warmth.
The rustling of fabric and the clanking of chains echoed in the cave.
After a moment, Fang Qingyou looked at herself in the mirror again, feeling a sense of disbelief.
Her once arrogant, domineering, and wildly flamboyant charm was completely gone.
It was as if only a beautiful shell remained, an empty husk.
Though she could ignite the desires of all beings, the intense urge to conquer was gone.
However, beauty lies not only in its radiant, captivating beauty when perfect, but
also in its poignant, tragic beauty when broken and withered.
The Holy Maiden of the Moon, though no longer the same,
possessed a delicate, aloof face, a body brimming with wild power, and a contradictory expression of humiliation, submission, and voluntary sacrifice—a melancholic and sorrowful beauty permeated her being.
After a long while, her gaze fell on the dual cultivation manual on the table. She picked it up several times, only to put it down again, her fingers clenching and unclenching.
Compared to the Holy Maiden of the Moonlit Night, all True Monarch Burning Annihilation could do was prepare a fine gift and take the opportunity to show his loyalty.
As for gaining benefits or opportunities from True Monarch Yangming, or advancing further, he held no such expectations.
After all, in his current state, his potential had long been exhausted, and he had no value for cultivation.
For him, being able to die peacefully and enjoy his life was already a blessing.
Now, he only wanted to rely on True Monarch Yangming and live out his remaining years in peace.
However, thinking of Moro, a shadow still fell over his heart.
He had successfully broken through to the Nascent Soul stage with the help of Moro and the secret techniques of the Blood Sea Sect.
He didn't know if the other party had left any hidden tricks for him.
If Moro, or the cultivators of the Blood Sea Sect, came looking for him again, it would be difficult for him to enjoy his remaining years and die peacefully.
After listening to his junior brother, Yuan Zhenjun's, detailed report, Hunyuan Zhenjun realized that the matter of the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul was almost certain, and he felt a surge of amazement and envy.
For Nascent Soul cultivators like them, the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul existed only in ancient texts and legends; they had never actually seen one.
"What needed to be done has been done; now we just need to wait and calm down,"
Hunyuan Zhenjun sighed. "Although Yangming Zhenjun is exceptionally strong, he has even brought forces like the Asura Sect and Beast God Mountain under his command, indicating a shortage of capable people. He won't refuse our sincerity."
Choosing to align with Yangming Mountain was not only due to the absolute strength Yangming Zhenjun had displayed, but also because of the resources and achievements gained during the Liangyue War. He believed the other party wouldn't be overly concerned with personal gain.
Even as a vassal, they would have considerable autonomy and wouldn't be hindered or suppressed in their development.
Yuan Zhenjun nodded.
He had some additional thoughts on his trip to Yangming Mountain.
His physical body had previously been destroyed, effectively exhausting his potential.
If he aligned himself with Yangming Mountain and made contributions, he might be able to obtain an opportunity to rebuild his Nascent Soul foundation.
Liang Kingdom, Heavenly Sword Sect.
Looking at the message from Jiang Guo, Juejian Zhenjun gazed towards the back mountain, watching the surging tide of spiritual energy, hoping his senior brother would successfully break through to the mid-stage of the
Nascent Soul realm. Several days later, he saw the surging tide of spiritual energy and the restrictions on the back mountain torn apart by a sharp sword intent.
The sword energy crisscrossed, its sharpness killing vegetation, crumbling rocks, and even causing fine cracks in the void.
Then, a powerful and imposing Nascent Soul pressure emanated from the back mountain.
"Mid-stage Nascent Soul, Senior Brother has broken through!"
Although he knew his senior brother had made every effort, Juejian Zhenjun was still thrilled to see him cross this threshold.
"Congratulations on breaking through to the mid-stage of the Nascent Soul realm, becoming a powerful figure!"
Juejian Zhenjun arrived at the back mountain and offered his congratulations.
"Mid-stage Nascent Soul, how dare I call myself a powerful figure? It's just a bit impressive in this remote place," Xuanjian Zhenjun said softly.
In the past, a mid-stage Nascent Soul would have been enough to place him among the giants of the Northern Region, leading the Heavenly Sword Sect to expand rapidly and take another step forward.
But with the great calamity of the demonic path approaching, having witnessed the strength of Yangming Zhenjun and Moro, he had already seen things clearly.
At the mid-stage of the Nascent Soul realm, he could barely protect himself in this calamity.
Only by advancing to the late-stage Nascent Soul realm could he truly join the ranks of the giants, securing a place in the turbulent and treacherous cultivation world, thus influencing the overall landscape.
"Late-stage Nascent Soul...
"
Xuanjian Zhenjun's eyes flashed with a chilling sword light as he felt the powerful and boundless magic power within his body.
Breaking through to the mid-stage, the quality of his magic power, the power of his sword light,
and the explosive power of his divine abilities were all far superior to before. If he were to encounter Nascent Soul cultivators like Mei, Momu, or even Jiuling Zhenjun again, he was confident he could kill them.
However, the difference between the mid-stage and early-stage Nascent Soul realms was already so vast.
Then how terrifying would a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator be...
? After all, those who could break through to the late-stage
Nascent Soul realm were all exceptionally talented, having experienced countless battles and struggles, ultimately standing atop the Southern Wilderness!
"Senior brother, news has come from Jiang Kingdom...
"
The Absolute Sword True Monarch informed his senior brother that the Red Lotus was suspected of condensing a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul.
"A Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul..." The Profound Sword True Monarch paused upon hearing this.
In his youth, he too had been arrogant and reckless, attempting to break through to the Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul stage.
However, the first Heavenly Tribulation nearly damaged his Nascent Soul, forcing him to abandon the attempt.
"The world's geniuses are as numerous as carp crossing a river," the Profound Sword True Monarch sighed softly, knowing that while he was considered exceptionally talented among the various kingdoms of Jiang Kingdom
, he was only average in the entire Southern Wilderness cultivation world.
"Go and prepare a generous gift," the Profound Sword True Monarch said.
He paused, then added, "Now that the Wu Kingdom is almost pacified, right? You could invite True Monarch Caiyun to visit and inquire about the Qingyun Sect's mountain gate formation; could you offer any assistance?"
"I remember True Monarch Caiyun's son has exceptional swordsmanship talent. You could also invite him to the sect and offer him a chance at the Sword Pool, thus forging a good relationship."
True Monarch Xuanjian had already guessed that True Monarch Yangming was Yun Wanshang's Daoist partner, the [Qilin Sword Monarch].
Under these circumstances, he didn't mind using this connection to build more good relationships.
After all, the Heavenly Sword Sect and the Qingyun Sect had a thousand-year history of interaction.
"Yes, Senior Brother." True Monarch Juejian knew that his senior brother was not only exceptional in swordsmanship but also far superior in divination, and he trusted him implicitly.
Wu Kingdom, Ziguang Sect.
Although the Ziguang Sect had moved entirely to the Wu Kingdom, it still maintained a considerable number of spies and influence in its former Yue Kingdom territory.
Therefore, Ziguang Zhenjun learned of the news about Yangming Mountain in Jiang State immediately.
Upon seeing the intelligence in his hand, his expression was one of surprise and disbelief.
He hadn't expected that not long ago, Yangming Zhenjun had single-handedly suppressed five Nascent Soul cultivators, frightening away the Northern Region giant Luo Fuzi;
now, his Daoist partner was suspected of condensing a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul.
If this was true, wouldn't it mean that Yangming Mountain would soon produce a second terrifying existence like Yangming Zhenjun?
A jumble of thoughts surged through his mind, and he even began to waver and doubt his decision to relocate his entire clan to avoid Wu State.
After all, if Yangming Zhenjun truly harbored ambitions of annexation, given his terrifying strength, relocating his clan to Wu State, or even to the Endless Desert, would be futile.
On the contrary, in Yue State, bordering Jiang State, carefully maintaining relations and forging goodwill might allow him to seek Jiang State's assistance in future crises.
However, what's done is done, and there's no turning back.
Besides, if given another chance, he would still choose to relocate to Wu State.
This place boasts a vast territory and abundant resources, freeing him from excessive dependence on others.
He didn't dwell on his regrets and began considering the congratulatory gift.
Breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage was a momentous occasion anywhere.
Yangming Mountain would undoubtedly hold a grand celebration!
Although his family was far away in the Martial Kingdom, the gift couldn't be taken lightly.
If the gift didn't suit Yangming Zhenjun's taste, or was insufficient in quantity, he might be remembered and accused of slight, thus harboring resentment.
After all, during the previous Liangyue War, Yangming Zhenjun had seized all the supplies and strategic resources of his Chiyue Immortal City.
Knowing his greed and avarice, he dared not be negligent.
Yun Wanshang, though busy in the Yue and Martial Kingdoms, overseeing the Ziguang Sect's resource gains and coordinating the Qingyun Sect's relocation,
had been paying close attention to Yangming Mountain's progress towards the Nascent Soul stage.
Hearing the news of Honglian's breakthrough, she knew she must have condensed a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul!
First, she had met Honglian.
Although the two hadn't had much contact, their extraordinary demeanor and bearing suggested they were likely reincarnations of great cultivators, as rumored.
Secondly, she had a certain understanding of Lu Changsheng's background and methods.
Given her circumstances, even with decades more of accumulation and the acquisition of the Nascent Soul Pill, she could only condense a low-level
Nascent Soul. However, with Lu Changsheng's help, she condensed a top-grade low-level Nascent Soul,
just a step away from condensing a high-level Nascent Soul.
Now, Lu Changsheng had broken through to the Nascent Soul stage, crushed the Yinming Ghost Sect, quelled the Liangyue War, and repelled five Nascent Soul cultivators; his strength and foundation far surpassed hers when she broke through to the Nascent Soul stage.
And Honglian was no ordinary person; condensing a high-level Nascent Soul was perfectly normal for her.
Even so, thinking of Lu Changsheng's inconceivable growth rate and Honglian's condensation of a high-level Nascent Soul, Yun Wanshang felt a sense of bewilderment, a feeling of defeat welling up inside her, her emotions complex.
Once, her pride and joy—her talent, cultivation, and strength—had been surpassed not only by Lu Changsheng but even by those around him…
As her thoughts drifted, she recalled ten years ago when Lu Changsheng asked her in the Caiyun Palace what conditions were necessary to marry Caiyun Zhenjun.
Frustrated, she had deliberately set an unattainable goal: to become one of the top cultivators in the Southern Wilderness.
Now, looking back, only ten years had passed, and he had become one of the top giants in the Northern Region of the Southern Wilderness.
She estimated that in less than a century, he would rise from a Northern Region giant to a top cultivator, a behemoth capable of dominating the Southern Wilderness's cultivation world.
At that time…
Yun Wanshang sighed inwardly.
Not far away, on a meditation cushion, a boy of about ten years old, dressed in blue and white robes embroidered with Qilin and cloud patterns, sat cross-legged.
His back was straight and upright, his eyes lowered, his gaze fixed on the rules and patterns of the sword embryo in his arms.
Although no internal energy flowed around him, a closer look revealed faint, almost imperceptible ripples of sword energy emanating from the surrounding air, radiating outwards from him.
This sword energy was clear and pure, without any sharpness, making the three-foot radius around him appear as if it were a crystal-clear sword domain, pristine and untouched by dust.
It was truly hard to imagine that this was a child not even ten years old.
Hearing his mother's sudden sigh, Lu Yunxiao couldn't help but ask with concern, "Mother, is something troubling you?"
Upon hearing this, Yun Wanshang immediately suppressed the turmoil of thoughts and melancholy in her mind, her face bearing her usual cold and imposing expression, and asked, "Mr. Lu, what insights did you gain from your cultivation today?"
Lu
Yunxiao was quite puzzled. He
thought to himself, "Besides cultivation, does Mother have nothing else to do?"
However, having been raised and taught by Yun Wanshang since childhood, he was used to his mother's strictness. With a serious expression, he said, "Mother, today I completed thirty-six cycles of cultivation, which was smoother than yesterday. When the Qi reached the Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian, the resonance with the sword embryo slightly improved, forming a triple sword Qi thunderous sound...
" "
Did you gain any new insights from the 'Sword Rhyme Song'?"
Yun Wanshang lacked the tenderness of most mothers, appearing quite stern.
She knew that for a child like her son, Lu Yunxiao, who possessed an unparalleled Dao physique, leniency was tantamount to indulgence; only by constantly raising the standards could her full potential be unleashed.
Lu Yunxiao responded to the tree with a clear and orderly manner.
He was not only used to his mother's strictness, but also knew that he couldn't reveal all his insights and progress in cultivation at once.
Otherwise, if his progress wasn't enough, he would be subjected to a lecture.
After a brief discussion, seeing a slight smile on his mother's face, he tentatively asked if something had happened in the Martial Kingdom
. If his mother was busy, he could return to the Qingyun Sect to cultivate.
In his early years, he didn't find life in the Qingyun Sect leisurely.
But since being taken in and taught by his mother, cultivation allowed no slackening, and he began to miss the days of cultivating with Lu Shouzhen, and reminisce about his elusive father.
Compared to his mother's strictness and his own rigorous cultivation, his father was the complete opposite.
He didn't care much about his cultivation, at most asking a few questions, and thought it was good enough, very casual.
Although he knew that his mother's strict teaching was for his own good, by nature, he still preferred a more restrained and leisurely life, cultivating freely.
However, he dared not let his mother know this, for fear of disappointing her.
Yun Wanshang didn't know much about her son's methods, only that he had been away from home for too long and missed the Qingyun Sect somewhat. She said in a gentle tone, "The affairs of the Wu Kingdom are about to end. In a few months, we will return."
"Hmm, I also miss Brother Shouzheng a bit," Lu Yunxiao nodded, then, under Yun Wanshang's gaze, continued to comprehend the sword embryo's patterns.
He secretly thought that he should be able to relax after returning to the Qingyun Sect.
When her father reappears, she must make sure her son comes looking for her; she can't ignore him and let him drift aimlessly. Seeing
her son sitting upright and focused, his body radiating sword energy that coalesced into a powerful sword aura, Yun Wanshang's beautiful eyes were filled with satisfaction.
Her gaze towards him held a hint of warmth, pride, and expectation.