Jade Spring Island.
Yu Xiang'er only felt a surge of magical power far exceeding that of the Core Formation stage sweep past her.
Then, the cave gate opened, and a handsome young man walked out, his eyes like unfathomable, deep springs.
"Congratulations, Young Master..."
Yu Xiang'er bowed down: "Young Master...you, have you perhaps condensed your Nascent Soul?"
As a cultivator from the East Sea's cultivation world, she had a natural awe for Nascent Soul cultivators.
"More or less."
Fang Qing examined himself internally.
Currently, within his dantian, a second Nascent Soul resided atop his True Core.
Since he also cultivated the "Devouring Sea Technique," and their magical power was almost identical, he could completely borrow the Nascent Soul's magical power to impersonate a Nascent Soul cultivator!
"My spiritual sense is incredibly strong, even surpassing the peak of the Core Formation stage... My physique is also at the upper-grade third rank. Ordinary cultivators, without body refinement, even with the innate marrow cleansing effect of breaking through major realms, are mostly only at the third rank of body refinement..."
"Therefore, in terms of magical power, I am a true Nascent Soul cultivator. My spiritual sense is slightly weaker, but my physique is somewhat superior..." "
Overall, I am still stronger than a Nascent Soul cultivator with a Dharma Body." "
I'll need to test my specific combat strength later."
Fang Qing's figure flashed, appearing instantly outside Jade Spring Island, instantly traveling tens of thousands of miles away.
"Hmm... I also have the added advantage of my rank. To ordinary Nascent Soul cultivators, I appear more like a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator, just pretending to be an early-stage Nascent Soul cultivator..."
A flash of light appeared in his hand, and the 'Heavenly Bell' materialized.
Clang!
The Heavenly Bell emitted a resounding sound, its surface shimmering with dragon and phoenix inscriptions.
Wherever the ripples passed, a desolate island ahead was reduced to ashes, countless seawater rose, and the misty air filled the sky…
"This Nascent Soul level treasure, after cultivating a second Nascent Soul, is finally as easy to use as an extension of my own body…"
"In terms of destructive power… it's at the level of a late-stage Purple Mansion Great True Person in the Qi Cultivation Path? However, this treasure is closely related to that Fuyu Yuanjun, so it's best not to flaunt it in the Qi Cultivation Path…"
"As for the second Nascent Soul, the Dharma Body Nascent Soul, etc… feel free to use them in the Qi Cultivation Path. Perhaps those True Persons will see some traces of ancient techniques?"
Fang Qing withdrew the Wentian Bell and formed hand seals.
Whoosh!
In the void, a patch of darkness appeared out of nowhere, and the darkness transformed into a vortex, frantically absorbing everything nearby.
First came the water vapor, then the shattered rocks, and then a large number of sea fish and demonic beasts...
It was as if a gluttonous beast had appeared in the void, opening its huge mouth to greedily devour everything...
"Secret Technique... Nine Abyss!"
"The secret technique recorded in the 'Sea Devouring Technique' at the Nascent Soul level... is quite powerful."
After a series of tests, Fang Qing was very satisfied with his soaring combat power.
'In the realm of Qi Cultivation, even if I am not a match for any Grand True Person of the Purple Mansion, I am only a step away from becoming a Grand True Person... I can easily impersonate a Grand True Person.' '
I might even be able to try to kill a regular early-stage Purple Mansion True Person?' '
If it were me now, I could easily kill a True Person of the Profound Earth...'
The reason he felt he was not as good as a Grand True Person of the Purple Mansion was naturally because a Grand True Person not only possessed three supernatural powers, but also had a very stable Purple Mansion, and was also favored by the Golden Rank, receiving a second promotion in rank...
The reason why a Grand True Person of the Purple Mansion was a Grand True Person was that their rank was a step above that of an ordinary True Person.
Now, Fang Qing is a hybrid of two unrelated entities, with only his second Nascent Soul in the Qi Chain Dao barely possessing the combat power of a Great True Person, but his rank is still that of a True Person in the early stage of the Purple Mansion realm.
But so be it, as long as his strength increases, that's enough.
At least now he can look down on all early and mid-stage Purple Mansion cultivators…
"I am neither a Dharma Body Nascent Soul nor an early Nascent Soul cultivator, perhaps I could be called a 'fake Nascent Soul'? Meaning I'm merely holding a fake Nascent Soul?"
Just then, Fang Qing suddenly had a sudden inspiration and couldn't help but calculate with his fingers: "Huh? There's actually a calamity brewing over Ice Heaven Island? Fortunately, with my current strength, I'm already enough to pacify the universe and stabilize the world…"
…
Eastern Sea Cultivation World.
Octagonal Merchant Building.
The once bustling and noisy merchant building was now somewhat deserted, giving one a sense of desolation.
At the highest point, Shang Yuanxin leaned against the railing, his expression cold and desolate.
"Young Master… that person has sent another talisman."
Behind him, Uncle Fu held a talisman in his hand, as if holding a fourth-order thunder pearl about to explode.
"It's still Master Tianfu... Talisman Sword Island truly lives up to its reputation as one of the three great islands.
A force to be reckoned with, on par with my Shangjia Island... These three letters are probably just to give my Shangjia Island face; there won't be a fourth..." Shang Yuanxin sighed.
In reality, the fact that they've managed to hold out this long is already a sign of Talisman Sword Island giving face to the powerful figure behind them.
The whole affair started with that 'Resentful Infant Fruit' from back then.
Although Talisman Sword Island had searched extensively for a while, time had passed, and even Shang Yuanxin thought Master Tianfu had given up.
But perhaps the Nascent Soul cultivator being tricked by the Core Formation cultivator was too humiliating, or perhaps that Resentful Infant Fruit was extremely important, Talisman Sword Island had been secretly investigating. Shang Yuanxin even suspected that there were more than one Talisman Sword Island spy within the entire building!
The result was that something went wrong at some point, allowing Master Tianfu to discover their dealings with that Fang Shui!
Of course, merchants travel far and wide, and selling stolen goods is a shameful business, but every merchant does it. Master Tianfu won't do anything to him over such a small matter; he'll just ask him to hand over the records of the 'Fang Shui' transactions and related information.
But Shang Yuanxin stubbornly resisted, adhering to the rules of business.
Firstly, it was because he favored Fang Shui, and secondly…
'That Resentful Infant Fruit is in my hands!'
Shang Yuanxin's heart was bleeding.
Otherwise, he wouldn't have held out this long.
'Besides… I really don't know where Fang Shui is, I only know he's colluding with Zhong Lingxiu… but Zhong Lingxiu is an elder of the Heavenly Frost Sect, and that old monster of the Heavenly Frost Sect recently advanced to the mid-Nascent Soul stage… and has a strange and aloof personality, not to be trifled with!' '
If I reveal this, Zhong Lingxiu will definitely be arrested and severely tortured… and the Heavenly Frost Sect will become hostile towards her. Will she still be able to do business here?' '
But… if it happens again, I'm afraid I won't be able to withstand the pressure…'
Shang Yuanxin sighed inwardly.
There is no one in the world who cannot be bribed, only those whose price is not high enough…
Just then, a Core Formation cultivator in black entered, his expression cold, and bowed: "Young Master…"
"How is it?"
Shang Yuanxin turned around: "Has the person who secretly colluded with Fujian Island been caught?"
That spy was clever, running away immediately after delivering the message.
But the Shang family's network of connections spans the East Sea, how could they really let him escape?
"He has been caught and thrown into prison," the Core Formation cultivator in black replied.
"Good, deal with him, not only him, but his entire network, his master, disciples, wife, concubines, children, sons-in-law… all must be dealt with."
Shang Yuanxin's face darkened, and a hint of ruthlessness finally surfaced.
How could someone who wants to take control of the Shang family be a soft-hearted person?
But what he didn't know was that even if he exposed Zhong Lingxiu, Zhong Lingxiu would only commit suicide, and even a Nascent Soul cultivator's soul search wouldn't reveal much.
And even if they traced Zhong Lingxiu's background all the way to the cultivation world of the Little Universe Sea, only some of his subordinates and disciples would die.
It still couldn't harm Fang Qing in the slightest.
Of course, he was definitely unhappy, and not only Tianfu, but even Shang Yuanxin would be retaliated against by Fang Qing...
"Oh? What happened?"
Just then, a faint voice suddenly sounded beside Shang Yuanxin.
Although calm, it carried an air of authority.
Shang Yuanxin immediately replied, "It's Tianfu from Fujian Island who came to force me to reveal the secret of that Fangshui... If they press me any further, I won't be able to hold on..."
He answered naturally, and Uncle Fu and the black-robed Core Formation cultivator beside him both looked as if it were perfectly reasonable.
But when they saw the True Person with a single point of emerald light between his brows, they wished they could slap themselves: "I... what nonsense did I just say?"
Shang Yuanxin was filled with remorse, but then he heard Fang Qing say, "To be able to hold on until now against the pressure from a mid-stage Nascent Soul cultivator is quite impressive..."
Although Fang Qing also knew that this was definitely because the Resentful Infant Fruit had now returned to Shang Yuanxin!
He now looked with considerable interest at the talisman in Uncle Fu's hand: "Old man Tianfu... why test a junior like this?"
"Hmm?"
Uncle Fu suddenly felt the talisman in his hand burning hot and quickly threw it away.
A flash of light appeared on the talisman, and the talisman head, body, core, and feet each manifested, transforming into a body, hands, and feet... all of which combined to form an old man with a full head of white hair and a face like jade, dressed in feathered robes—none other than 'Master Tianfu'!
"Nascent Soul?"
'Heavenly Talisman Master' stared at Fang Qing, his expression filled with astonishment and uncertainty. "You... used that Vengeful Infant Fruit? No, it hasn't been that long since last time, how could your cultivation have advanced so rapidly?"
Fang Qing looked at Heavenly Talisman Master, secretly calculating for a moment, and smiled, "I've heard that most Nascent Soul cultivators in the demonic path are skilled in a kind of 'possession technique,' able to possess their own Core Formation disciples and briefly unleash Nascent Soul combat power... but ultimately not as good as Talisman Sword Island. This 'Avatar Talisman,' though precious, can replace a Core Formation cultivator, allowing you to perform the 'possession technique,' truly extraordinary..."
As he spoke, two astonishing auras soared into the sky, entangled and clashing in the void...
"Nascent Soul?"
Shang Yuanxin was cornered, staring at the center where the various spiritual lights converged, his heart filled with unparalleled shock: "Mr. Fang... he's actually reached the Nascent Soul stage? So fast?"
He knew all too well how terrifying Mr. Fang was; not only was he a cultivator with an empty spiritual root, but he was also skilled in a certain divination technique, able to avert misfortune and seek good fortune.
Now that Mr. Fang had achieved Nascent Soul mastery,
he could roam freely throughout the entire East Sea cultivation world! No! It should be said that once an ordinary cultivator condenses their Nascent Soul, they can stand at the pinnacle of the East Sea cultivation world.
But this man, once he condenses his Nascent Soul, can stand directly at the very top among all Nascent Soul cultivators!
"My Nascent Soul is newly formed, and I was just looking for a fellow Daoist to discuss the Dao. This place is too secluded; how about we go somewhere else?"
Fang Qing smiled, looking at Tianfu Shangren.
"Agreed!"
Tianfu Shangren agreed, and then saw Fang Qing step into the void and disappear without a trace. His eyes twitched involuntarily, and with a flick of his right hand, he drew a picture in the air, directly condensing his Qi into a talisman that transformed into a five-colored escape light, chasing after Ice Heaven Island...
Outside Ice Sky Island.
The void shattered, and Fang Qing emerged leisurely, standing with his hands behind his back, silently waiting.
A moment later, a five-colored stream of light followed, revealing an elderly man with a full head of white hair and feathered robes—it was none other than Master Tianfu.
"I've long heard of the four Nascent Soul masters of Talisman Sword Island—Tianfu, Tianlu, Tianshu, and Tianjian—each renowned throughout the East Sea. Today, I must learn from them."
Fang Qing flicked his sleeve, and within his dantian, his second Nascent Soul opened its eyes, revealing a pair of golden pupils. A rush of spiritual energy swept across the sky, as if encountering a black hole, completely swallowed up—this was the Nascent Soul level technique, the *Devouring Sea Technique*! His battle with the avatar of
Tianfu
was not only to prove his own strength and verify the power of the Nascent Soul stage, but also to see if the *Devouring Sea Technique* was still considered a pariah in the East Sea cultivation world. "The spiritual energy of heaven and earth..." Sensing this scene, Tianfu Shangren's expression changed slightly. He formed hand seals, continuously condensing energy into talismans. "Stabilizing Yuan Talisman!" "Heavenly Light Talisman!" "Solidifying Qi Talisman!" In an instant, a burst of spiritual light filled the air, the power of at least third-tier talismans erupting, trapping the spiritual energy in the void... Then, Tianfu Shangren saw Fang Qing wave his hand. Whoosh! Endless gray-black mist surged forth, containing the phantom souls of at least third-tier low-grade demonic beasts such as dragons, coiled turtles, flying fish, and sea snakes. "The Myriad Soul Banner?" "No, it's a transformation of demonic art!" Tianfu waved his hand, his feathered robes bursting with multicolored light, and talismans specifically designed to destroy evil spirits and souls appeared out of thin air. Then, all the talismans connected end to end, forming a sword body, hilt, and guard... transforming into a special talisman sword! "Slash!" The Heavenly Talisman Master formed a sword incantation, and the talisman sword swept across, carrying a light that warded off evil. The countless spirits and gray-black mist were almost instantly swept away. "What a fine magic sword." Fang Qing couldn't help but clap his hands in praise upon seeing this. Talisman Sword Island is known as the "Dual Master of Talisman Swords," and what the Heavenly Talisman Master was using was more like talisman magic than swordsmanship! 'Unlike sword cultivators who can break all laws with a single sword in hand... he follows the path of refining various spells into the talisman sword, which can be considered a "magic sword" or "spell sword"... leaning more towards the path of Qi chaining.' He didn't feel anything about his casual attack being broken. After all, it was just a byproduct of cultivating the "Devouring the Sea Technique," equivalent to some kind of special effect. If it was destroyed, he could cultivate it again. 'Moreover... once I consume some fourth-tier essence pills, it won't be so easy.' Fang Qing raised his hand, and the "Killing Wolf" appeared in his hand, bringing a burst of golden energy. Although his cultivation method had changed, this flying sword remained incredibly sharp, perfectly suited for his swordsmanship. *Whoosh!* He thrust out his sword, the sound of thunder echoing, splitting into countless sword threads, each carrying an indescribable sharpness. It seemed to have found the weakness of the torrent of talismanic sword magic, striking it mid-stream, shattering all the endless spells. *Swish! * Fang Qing activated his sword technique, using his Nascent Soul power to propel the flying sword. Although it lost its purity, its power was even greater. A sword aura, like mist, suddenly transformed into a rainbow amidst the starlight, severing the talismanic sword in half. The Heavenly Talisman Master lightly tapped his finger, and the broken talismanic sword instantly scattered, transforming into countless talismans. The damaged talismans burned directly, turning to ashes, while the remaining ones adhered to his body, forming a strange talismanic armor… If it were a true swordsman, having their natal flying sword severed would certainly result in severe damage to their vital energy. However, the flying swords of Talisman Sword Island, though called swords, are actually countless talismans. If damaged, they can simply be repaired… Fang Qing closed in, his 'Killing Wolf' sword flashing, its light dazzling, carrying the power to shatter all laws with a single strike, breaking through thirteen layers of talismanic light, almost reaching the Heavenly Talisman Master. The Heavenly Talisman Master spread his arms, soaring like a great bird, and in the nick of time, affixed a talisman. This talisman struck the Killing Wolf sword directly, actually causing the sword light to falter! "Hmph!" Fang Qing snorted coldly, his 'Vajra Pestle' also slamming into the Heavenly Talisman Master's sea of consciousness, causing the Nascent Soul Master to pause. Then, he brought his five fingers together, forming a fist, and smashed it onto the talismanic light before him. Whoosh! Countless talismans exploded like fireworks, turning into multicolored flames. The five-colored outline on the chest of the Celestial Talisman Master transformed into a talisman, and his figure vanished instantly, reappearing dozens of feet away, a hint of surprise and uncertainty on his face: "Fellow Daoist... you're actually a body cultivator?" Even though cultivators can undergo meridian cleansing and marrow purification with each major realm breakthrough, even after breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage, without body refinement, their physique would likely only be around the lower third rank, and they wouldn't understand the art of close combat. But Fang Qing was clearly different! "Just some miscellaneous studies." Fang Qing chuckled, toying with a small bell in his hand: "Want to continue?" "No need." Upon seeing the 'Heavenly Bell,' the Celestial Talisman Master immediately felt a chill run down his spine, knowing that if they continued, this Celestial Talisman avatar might be lost here. Although his main body wouldn't perish, serious injury would be inevitable. 'This child has already reached the Nascent Soul stage, and with the Void Spirit Root... he can roam the void with his physical body, achieving the feat of a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator... I'm afraid even a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator would find it difficult to truly kill him.' After some thought, Tianfu Shangren realized that even if his true self were here, he would have little chance against Fang Qing, since his true self was only at the mid-Nascent Soul stage .
This avatar, acting through possession, was only at the early Nascent Soul stage.
After much thought, he decided to give up: "Congratulations on condensing your Nascent Soul, fellow Daoist. Consider the Resentful Infant Fruit my congratulatory gift..."
Since he couldn't kill it, he had to compromise.
Otherwise, offending such an elusive Nascent Soul expert would likely make it difficult for any disciple below the Nascent Soul stage on Talisman Sword Island to leave the island...
"Haha... no fight, no friendship. I've always greatly admired Talisman Sword Island."
Fang Qing didn't know if this Heavenly Talisman Old Monster recognized his own *Swallowing Sea Technique*, but judging from his appearance, even if he cultivated this demonic art, it shouldn't be a big problem.
After all, the Devouring Sea Demon Sect's rampage in the East Sea was a thing of the past ten thousand years...
and the treatment of someone who has formed a Core stage through demonic arts is completely different from someone who has only reached the Nascent Soul stage.
For example, that Heavenly Fiend Old Monster even robbed merchants, yet he's still living a carefree life, isn't he?
"Now that the misunderstanding is cleared up, I should take my leave..."
Fang Qing glanced in a certain direction, chuckled, and vanished instantly.
Whoosh!
The Heavenly Talisman avatar stood silently, and soon after, another 'Heavenly Talisman Master' flew in, radiating terrifying magical power at the mid-Nascent Soul stage.
He remained silent, flicked his sleeve, and transformed the Heavenly Talisman avatar into a talisman, storing it in his robes: "This brat actually sensed my arrival? He just fought me, and I haven't even used my teleportation technique or that terrifying treasure yet..."
The Heavenly Talisman stared at the spot where Fang Qing had disappeared, his face filled with apprehension: "This brat is still only at the Core Formation stage, yet he dares to steal a Nascent Soul cultivator's treasure... When he reaches the mid-Nascent Soul stage, or even the late Nascent Soul stage... I'm afraid the entire East Sea cultivation world will be in turmoil."
...
'Very good... Now it seems that my 'Pseudo-Nascent Soul' is equivalent to early-Nascent Soul stage combat power in the East Sea cultivation world...'
After resolving the crisis and testing his new ability, Fang Qing was extremely satisfied.
When they reappeared, they were already back at the merchant guild.
"Greetings, Senior."
Shang Yuanxin was discussing matters with Uncle Fu when he saw Fang Qing and quickly bowed.
"I have resolved the matter of the Heavenly Talisman. I expect this person will make a move soon."
Fang Qing waved his hand and sat down on a wooden chair.
"Thank you, Senior."
Shang Yuanxin bowed deeply, as did Uncle Fu beside him. He thought to himself, "Young Master's investment in this person back then was truly a huge profit... It hasn't been long, and he's already a Nascent Soul cultivator?"
"Not only a Nascent Soul cultivator, but even Talisman Sword Island couldn't do anything about him... We could only make peace."
"What else do you need?"
Fang Qing took a sip of spiritual tea and, seeing Shang Yuanxin's hesitant expression, couldn't help but ask with a smile.
"Reporting to Senior, after the Guixu Secret Realm opens, it will be the time for the selection of our Shang family's young master... At that time, I would like to invite Senior to attend and witness the grand event."
Shang Yuanxin sighed inwardly and bowed again.
The Guixu Secret Realm is the greatest Nascent Soul opportunity in the East Sea cultivation world. After the secret realm ends, more or less Nascent Soul spiritual items will be released.
Each time, the merchants can obtain at least one 'Heavenly Infant Fruit', which can then be used to refine 'Nascent Soul Pills', and then the young master of the merchant family will be selected and bestowed with various Nascent Soul treasures...
If Fang Qing still owed him a promise to help, he could have directly asked the other party to help him seize the throne.
But now the promise has been broken, and the relationship has faded, so he only dares to invite the other party to attend the grand event.
"If I have time, I will go myself."
Fang Qing thought for a moment, but did not give a definite answer.
Then, he gave Shang Yuanxin a jade slip, which was an auxiliary material for refining various Zhou Tian Secret Realm medicinal materials, and asked him to help collect it. Then, it flashed with light and disappeared without a trace...
Only then did Uncle Fu dare to straighten up and let out a long breath...
...
Several days later.
Jade Spring Island.
"Sincerity can lead to foresight..."
"But to truly eliminate danger, sufficient strength is still needed..."
Fang Qing lay comfortably on the armchair, thinking to himself.
If he didn't possess the strength of a fake Nascent Soul cultivator, even if he had the sudden inspiration to foresee this calamity, he probably could only order Zhong Lingxiu to escape, and all the arrangements in the Small Universe Sea would be abandoned...
Unlike now? The danger was eliminated at its source!
"Therefore, to live freely, one still needs sufficient self-protection..."
Fang Qing pinched Yu Xiang'er, making her get up, and then went to the Jade Spring. He
had obtained quite a few spiritual herbs this time, and also collected a batch of auxiliary materials from Shang Yuanxin, which he could refine into pills to aid his cultivation...
At the edge of the spring, the rain and mist were hazy, and occasionally a leopard roared...
Several months later.
Fang Qing sat cross-legged, several jade bottles beside him. Any single pill contained within, if released, would undoubtedly provoke countless Core Formation cultivators to bloodlust and bloodshed…
Before him, spring water was divided into several layers, each refining different pills. After
a moment's thought, Fang Qing took out two more jade bottles.
Having obtained the *Heavenly Water Pill Scripture*, he had studied it day and night, feeling that his water-based pill refining method had advanced to the fourth rank, making him a Grandmaster of Alchemy.
As a Grandmaster, he could design and modify pill formulas himself…
*Poof!*
The stopper popped open, and a wisp of purple energy rose, transforming into a blazing sun.
The other bottle, however, was serene and frosty, with
the radiance of the moon flowing through it…
one bottle contained 'Great Sun Purple Qi,' and the other 'Moon Azure Qi'…
These two types of true qi were ranked ninth-grade, extremely precious, but crucially, they were completely impossible to collect through the Qi Absorption method; attempting to collect them would inevitably lead to disaster.
In the end, only when the Four Great Masters of the Joyful Union Sect attained enlightenment could two of them be used...
But on the Chain Qi Path side, Fang Qing ordered people to collect over a hundred from the storehouse for future use...
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"Borrowing the Mysterious to Seek the Beginning..."
Fang Qing's cultivation has advanced significantly. Recalling the scene of the Great Master of the Hehuan Sect seeking gold, he seemed to have gained some insight:
Remember the first website domain name 𝕥𝕨𝕜𝕒𝕟.𝕔𝕠𝕞
"The Mysterious is the balance of Yin and Yang; the Beginning is the origin of all things..."
"Yang contains Yin, and Yin contains Yang, thus like the beginning of chaos, when the clear and turbid were first separated... Primordial Qi is the beginning of all things, the root of Yin and Yang, circulating through the six directions, endlessly nurturing."
"The Great Sun Purple Qi, possessing the intensity of the Li Fire, corresponds to the Yang of the Noon Branch, its nature is to rise upwards. The Great Yin Green Qi, receiving the cold of the Kan Water, combines with the Yin of the Rat Branch, its nature is to flow downwards... The combination of the two is 'Borrowing the Mysterious to Seek the Beginning,' which is to seek the 'Primordial Qi'!"
"Therefore, the method of seeking gold in the Hehuan Sect's Purple Mansion Perfection back then... was to combine the Great Sun Purple Qi and the Great Yin Green Qi... into 'Primordial Qi'... If she really succeeds in verifying it, there's a real chance of proving the gold nature..."
"The Hehuan Sect is the [Fang Ri] lineage, and it's the [Fang Ri] lineage after its transformation. The fourth supernatural power has been changed to 'Facing the Great Yin,' representing the [Fang Ri]'s submission to the [Wei Yue]... Therefore, this lineage has yin within yang and yang within yin... The final step is to seek 'the beginning'!"
"Now, using alchemy to deduce, if I can also 'borrow the mystery to seek the beginning' and combine the 'Great Sun Purple Qi' and the 'Great Yin Green Qi' into 'Primordial Qi,' my cultivation might even improve..."
"Even in the future, when cultivating other lineages, I won't need to gather qi as a catalyst..."
Fang Qing stared at the 'Primordial Qi' within the Dao Sheng Pearl, actually somewhat speechless.
If that Grand Master of the Joyful Union Sect had obtained a wisp of 'Primordial Qi,' which was his own 'Yuan Qi,' his chances of passing the Golden Certification exam would have increased by at least several times!
And yet, he used such precious Qi for refining techniques and pills…
"Enough, let's continue…"
Fang Qing opened a bottle of Taiyin Azure Qi, and instantly a burst of light emanated, transforming into laurel blossoms, frost flowers, and other wondrous phenomena…
…
"Yin within Yang, Yang within Yin…"
Several days later.
Within the spiritual spring, Taiyin and Yang shone brightly, the light of the changing sun intertwining with the condensed light of Taiyin, seemingly about to nurture something.
But suddenly…
splash!
Water droplets exploded everywhere, the Yin and Yang energies intertwined, and vanished without a trace…
"A hair's breadth off…"
Fang Qing stopped the pill-refining technique, his expression indifferent.
After all, even if the refining was ruined, it would only result in the loss of a wisp of 'Great Sun Purple Qi' and a wisp of 'Taiyin Azure Qi.'
"Furthermore... this theory isn't unfeasible, but my cultivation and alchemy skills are still insufficient."
"Moreover... if I were to refine a single Qi, I should have no problem. Then I could refine the Sun Pill and the Yin Elixir, which even a True Person of the Qi-Consuming Dao would covet..."
...
Qi-Consuming Dao.
Outer Sea Land. The location of the
Xuan Tu Temple had long since transformed into a barren wasteland, with countless Gu worms flying, swirling, and devouring...
A flash of golden light appeared in the sky, and a golden aura spread out, revealing Fang Qing's figure.
Of course, he was still here as the 'True Person of the Xuan Sword'.
'Back then... when news of the Xuan Tu True Person's death arrived, I had a bad feeling... and sensed someone calculating my location, so I went to the Qi-Chaining Dao to handle the secret realm matter.' '
Now it seems, it was truly the right decision.'
'And now, after falsely possessing the Nascent Soul, standing here, I feel no danger whatsoever... meaning that the danger that could have caused the Xuan Tu True Person's demise can no longer harm me.' Fang
Qing's eyebrows twitched, and one by one, the Gu worms were pierced by the golden energy.
He picked up a bit of soil and calculated with his fingers.
"'Kan Yuan Chen Yan'? And the cause and effect of this Purple Mansion Spirit Fire? Chu Zhaohuang... and, Li Yan?"
Just as he was thinking to himself, a blue-green light flashed, and the radiance of [Horn Wood] condensed, revealing a female Taoist priest.
She held a whisk, her appearance was noble, and her eyes were like autumn water: "Fellow Daoist Xuanjian..."
"I have been in seclusion for many years, and when I came out, I heard about this, so I came to see..."
Fang Qing glanced at the Gu cave below and found that there were actually some Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment cultivators using this place to collect Gu worms and cultivate spells...
Judging from their magical power, they were vaguely cultivating [Horn Wood], and he couldn't help but look at Su Huanzhen.
Su Huanzhen sighed, "After we parted ways last time, Xuan Tu left the Rhinoceros-Scale Demon King to feast. A few days later, True Person Li Yan attacked… True Person Xuan Tu was no match for him, and with the Tai Xu sealed off, he had nowhere to escape and could only sadly pass away…"
"As for the Rhinoceros-Scale Demon King, relying on his thick skin and the advantageous terrain, he managed to escape with his life, but he was burned to death by the 'Golden Thread Emperor Flame,' and his injuries are difficult to heal…"
"I see."
Fang Qing remained noncommittal; this was similar to the divination he had received.
'But why wasn't that Purple Mansion Demon King killed along with them?'
He had never had a good impression of demon kings who enjoyed blood sacrifices.
He then looked down at the cave below.
"These are indeed disciples of our sect..."
Su Huanzhen's expression remained unchanged. "My [Jiaomu] sect leads all trees, where birds and beasts dwell, and insects gather. We also have some knowledge of the Gu arts... We collect poisonous insects to enhance our Dao techniques and aura..."
"I see."
Fang Qing had no objection to Su Huanzhen eating the blood-soaked buns of Xuantu.
Although they had once been an exploration team, they disbanded after dividing the treasure.
"Fellow Daoist, please speak frankly."
He looked at Su Huanzhen and couldn't help but smile.
Su Huanzhen, however, said seriously, "Li Yan Zhenren is the next flag bearer of the Nine Heavens Fire Palace, with a fierce personality... If I hadn't sought refuge with the sect, he would have caused me trouble, even come to my door to kill me... Fellow Daoist, you seem to be a rogue cultivator? Why not join my Tianjiao Sect? My Tianjiao Sect's Grand Elder 'Guangmu' is a Great True Person at the Purple Mansion Perfection stage, capable of protecting a region; Li Yan wouldn't dare offend him..." '
Guangmu Zhenren?'
Fang Qing's heart stirred, and for some reason, he thought of 'Sanmu'. These two Daoist titles were truly one high and one low, one broad and one humble.
But Sanmu Zhenren was hiding something big; what about this Guangmu Great True Person?
In any case, a Great True Person at the Four Perfections stage had indeed stood at the pinnacle of this world, even qualified to enter the eyes of a True Monarch and receive guidance from a True Monarch.
At this moment, the Tianjiao Sect was extending an olive branch; what did this mean?
Fang Qing smiled: "I am a [Lou Jin] sword cultivator, who restrains all wood elements... Accepting me as a disciple would be somewhat diminishing my prestige... Even if your Tianjiao Sect wants to expand its prestige, you should try to win over cultivators of [Dou Mu], [Jing Mu], and [Kui Mu]."
[Jiao Mu] has the image of leading all wood elements and standing out from the crowd, which is indeed a proper matter.
"How can a drop of water put out a fire? How can a fire fueled by firewood burn the sea?"
Su Huan smiled slightly: "My Grand Elder is not afraid of this matter. On the contrary, fellow Daoist, you represent the prestige of metal virtue. Joining my Tianjiao Sect would also be beneficial to your cultivation..."
'This must involve a deeper level of cultivation... [Jiao Mu] does have a sharp edge after all... but I don't quite understand it.'
Fang Qing's heart stirred, but he still politely declined: "My wish is to challenge the world with my sword. Even if I am destroyed by the fire of separation, what do I have to fear?"
He immediately laughed and stepped into the void, disappearing from sight.
Only Su Huanzhen remained, gazing at this scene, and couldn't help but sigh, "Truly the nature of a sword cultivator, unyielding and unyielding..."
"Enough, enough. The most important thing now is the Grand Elder's request for gold... After all, time is running out."
A trace of sorrow appeared in her eyes: "Less than forty years left..."
...
Xuanxu Heaven.
Fang Qing changed his persona, controlling his divine sense to enter Xuanxu Heaven, appearing directly on the street.
"Qiantang is still the same as always..."
"Even Li Lu's whereabouts are unknown; rumors say he went into seclusion to break through to the Purple Mansion realm... This excuse can last at least thirty years."
"After thirty years..."
Fang Qing calculated with his fingers; it would be less than forty years before the 'Taihuang Heaven' reopened. By then, everything would have changed beyond recognition.
Today, he was unlucky; he didn't see the Grand Master of Northern Zhou commenting on the young and handsome men of the world.
However, most of the passing cultivators were excited, discussing the Battle of Fire Tournament.
After some calculation, he realized that the Northern Zhou Dynasty revered the virtue of fire, and many cultivators practiced fire-related techniques.
Even those who hadn't consumed the spiritual fire of heaven and earth would possess one or two spiritual flame spells, thus enjoying fire-based combat.
This Fire-Fighting Tournament, like the Listening to the Tide Sword Tournament of Southern Wu, was a major event in the Northern Zhou.
Originally, Fang Qing should have been very interested, but after thinking about the Metal Virtue's "mutual killing," he felt only apprehensive.
'The Fire Virtue... has also clearly produced a [Yearly Officer]...' '
If the [Yearly Officer] were to return, where would it be? Legend has it that this "spiritual fire of heaven and earth" was born from the influence of the Fire Virtue on the rules of heaven and earth... Heh, what a wonderful creation born from the influence of the Fire Virtue.'
His face was shrouded in a layer of mist as he entered a tea room.
There was only one person inside, radiating multicolored light. Upon seeing Fang Qing, he immediately cupped his hands: "Fellow Daoist..."
This person was none other than Sanmu!
Or rather—the Master of the Four Extinctions Sect!
Last time, Fang Qing had caught this person red-handed, so he wasn't planning to exploit him just once, but for life!
Therefore, he kept Xuanxu Heaven's contact information.
He certainly wouldn't use his previous disciples and Xuanxu Stone to contact Sanmu again; he used something else this time.
"We meet again."
Fang Qing looked around and saw that the building was sealed off, becoming a closed space. He couldn't help but sigh, "Indeed, a wealthy person, able to own property within Xuanxu Heaven..." "
This small property purchase might be difficult for a lower-level cultivator, but fellow Daoist, a Purple Mansion Venerable, are you really in such dire straits?"
Sanmu Zhenren's eyes darted around, clearly testing Fang Qing's background.
In fact, since last time, he had been extremely curious about this Purple Mansion Venerable who was the only one to have suffered a loss with him.
Unfortunately, neither the 'Camphor Willow God' supernatural power nor the art of divination could reveal this person's true identity.
This time, his probing was naturally an attempt to abandon supernatural methods and instead seek information from the secular world...
A [Lou Jin] Purple Mansion Venerable in dire straits? There should be very few like that in the world.
"Sigh..."
Fang Qing sighed, "On my trip to the outer sea, I finally made a friend and we obtained some spiritual resources together. But for some reason, I offended the Nine Heavens Fire Palace. That True Person Li Yan brought Chu Zhaohuang to our door and killed my good friend True Person Xuan Tu... He even relentlessly pursued me. He is truly despicable!"
"I heard from the messenger that the Nine Heavens Fire Palace obtained a 'Kanyuan Sinking Flame' from the outer sea and values it highly... It turns out it's related to you, fellow Daoist,"
said Sanmu Zhenren with a smile, though it was unclear whether he was telling the truth.
"I want revenge!"
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Fang Qing suddenly spoke.
At this point, Xuantu Zhenren was his beloved friend, his brother!
"This... Liyan Zhenren is the next Flag Bearer. Fellow Daoist may not understand the Nine Heavens Fire Palace. Within the Fire Virtue Sect, the Flag Bearer is the highest position, while the Sect Master is merely a nominal title... The three Flag Bearers of the Fire Palace are all the face of the Fire Palace. To lose them would be a slap in the face to the Golden Core Immortal Sect!"
Sanmu Zhenren's expression turned serious.
"Then what about Chu Tianyi before?"
Fang Qing asked in return.
"Li Que's fate will surely be unbearable."
Sanmu Zhenren shook his head. "Moreover, it's possible that Wuyue Sword Pavilion and Jiutian Fire Palace made some kind of deal, with both sides benefiting..."
"Forget it, why not target Chu Zhaohuang instead of Li Yan?"
Fang Qing seemed unwilling to give up.
"Chu Zhaohuang? Since Chu Tianyi's death, the Chu family's power within Jiutian Fire Palace has greatly diminished, but he is still a Zifu Zhenren..."
Sanmu Zhenren smiled, his eyes carrying a deeper meaning. "I already know what you mean, fellow Daoist. How about we contact a few interested Zifu Zhenren and launch a joint operation?"
"Oh? What about the consequences?" Fang
Qing asked curiously.
"That's simple. We'll leave that to 'Vajra Power Master'... Chu Zhaohuang's ascension to Dao has created a great karmic connection with the White Bone Dao. Now, karma is catching up with him, and he will ultimately die at the hands of Du Zi, which is only natural... Even if Jiutian Fire Palace wants to reason with them, they can go to the Secret Treasury."
Sanmu Zhenren seemed genuinely concerned for Fang Qing.
But Fang Qing just wanted to curse...
"I'm the Vajra Power Master!" "
You thick-browed, big-eyed Sanmu, back in the Canghai Sect you seemed like a decent person, but it turns out you're full of bad intentions..."
Relying on the protection of his Dao Sheng Pearl, even though Sanmu Zhenren's supernatural power was "Phoenix Seeking Phoenix," he couldn't hear his own thoughts, allowing Fang Qing to vent his anger.
Then, he looked at Sanmu: "Then what do you want from me, Zhenren, for helping me like this?"
Fang Qing had never been able to figure out Sanmu Zhenren's purpose.
This person spread the secret of [Yearly Duty] throughout the world, like a madman, or at least half-mad.
Before, at the Guanchao Sword Gathering, he helped the Northern Zhou and was an enemy of the Southern Wu.
But today, he betrayed the Purple Mansion Zhenren of the Nine Heavens Fire Palace without the slightest hesitation.
"This old man... this old man wasn't caught by you and had no choice but to do it, was he?"
Sanmu Zhenren's tone was quite innocent.
Fang Qing glanced at Sanmu, but didn't expose him. Instead, he was quite amused and prepared to see what this person was going to do.
Now that the True Monarch is not around, the Purple Mansion is the most respected.
His hidden trump card, called "Fake Nascent Soul," is comparable to a Grand True Person!
Even if True Person Sanmu pulls out a bigger one, he can at least escape.
"Hmm, let's prepare like this for now."
Fang Qing stood up and looked at the shop again: "Xuanxu Heaven is good, but there's a possibility of leaks... Aren't you afraid? Is it because you know its details?"
"Xuanxu was set up by a True Lord... Everyone who enters Xuanxu Heaven will be marked and even recorded for future reference..."
True Person Sanmu sneered, looking at Fang Qing's unchanging expression: "Of course, if we Purple Mansions knew beforehand, we could avoid this calamity whether we used puppets or certain supernatural powers... Furthermore, the True Lord who founded Xuanxu Heaven should belong to the Eastern Taiyi Xuanmen, so the power of Xuanxu Heaven can only radiate to the Inner Sea, but it can't reach the Deep Sea Dragon Palace or the territory of the Demon Path..." '
This damned place... Sure enough, there are traps everywhere.'
Fang Qing cursed inwardly.
Then Sanmu said, "Fortunately, True Lords are mostly hidden these days. Our plans are like ants... and won't trigger any mystical influence."
This made some sense. Even if ten or a hundred Chu Zhaohuangs died, it might not make a True Lord even frown.
Chu Tianyi, on the other hand, almost qualified to catch a True Lord's eye.
'But this old fellow isn't sincere...' '
What True Lord doesn't investigate? Does someone who can become a True Lord lack this caution? So Sanmu is setting a trap for me?'
...
Outer Sea, Langya Prefecture.
The waves raged, and a dark, rocky peak rose abruptly.
Fang Qing, dressed in a white-gold robe, his eyes pure gold, still possessed the appearance of [Lou Jin] with his purple-maned sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes.
After waiting a moment, a figure shrouded in mist traversed the void—it was True Man Sanmu.
True Man Sanmu waved his hand: "Wait a little longer..."
A flash of fire appeared in the sky, flickering uncertainly.
By the time his gaze fell upon him, he was already close, having transformed into a human form.
He wore crimson robes, held a crimson jade pendant, and had a crimson stripe between his brows that leaped like flames—he was indeed a Fire Virtue Purple Mansion!
"A True Person of [Zui Huo]? Truly rare..."
Seeing such a teammate, Fang Qing almost wanted to run away.
[Zui Huo] is a flickering fire, its meaning and symbolism extremely sordid.
Teaming up with someone like this meant constantly being on the verge of being wiped out...
"Hehe, let me introduce you..."
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Sanmu Zhenren, now acting as the leader of the Si Min Sect, introduced Fang Qing: "This is a rogue cultivator from my Northern Zhou—his Daoist name is 'Chi Gu'."
Fang Qing smiled slightly.
"Fellow Daoist, don't worry, this Chi Gu is sincerely seeking cooperation..."
Sanmu Zhenren said.
Chi Gu then spoke: "My lineage was originally quite illustrious, but later it declined... My master was already at the mid-stage of the Purple Mansion realm with two supernatural powers, but later intended to break through to the Great True Person realm. As a result, he was severely injured by the Flag Bearer of the Nine Heavens Fire Palace, and died soon after, depressed..." '
I knew it... how could someone who truly cultivates [Zui Huo] still have a great power?'
Fang Qing shook his head inwardly. Not long after, he sensed a sharp aura again.
A flash of blue light appeared on the horizon, and a person had already landed, wearing a bamboo hat and holding a wooden sword.
"[Hornwood]Sword Immortal?"
Fang Qing thought to himself, 'Is his origin so hard to guess? Could he be from the 'Heavenly Horn Gate'?'
He had a deep impression of the 'Crushing Edge' from the Pi family's Dao Foundation back then, and he also knew that not only Jin De could produce sword cultivators, but [Hornwood] also possessed a sharp edge!
"An unnamed sword cultivator, with a grudge against Chu Zhaohuang, has come to take his head."
This unnamed sword cultivator, holding a wooden sword, stood to the side, looking at Sanmu.
Sanmu Zhenren smiled: "Everyone here, whether you have a grudge against Chu Zhaohuang or hate the Nine Heavens Fire Palace, our goals are all the same... and to avenge a mere Purple Palace, we don't need to risk our own lives. We only need to severely injure Chu Zhaohuang and block any possible reinforcements from the Nine Heavens Fire Palace... As for the end, naturally that 'Vajra Powerful Child' will clean up the mess. We will not get involved in the karma..."
"Good!"
Fang Qing was the first to applaud.
Chigu Zhenren, who also couldn't afford to provoke the Nine Heavens Fire Palace, nodded upon hearing this.
"Since that's the case, let's just make our move."
Sanmu Zhenren laughed heartily and stepped into the void first.
His eyes, piercing through the smoke, gazed at Fang Qing, thinking to himself, 'This Purple Mansion sword cultivator… I wonder what merit he possesses to dare retaliate against the Nine Heavens Fire Mansion. Truly… interesting!'
…
Zhen Shou Mansion.
Chu Zhaohuang sat cross-legged, a single emerald flame gleaming between his brows.
After a long while, he opened his eyes: "The Metal Virtue Sword Qi and the Water Virtue Injury… were truly troublesome. Fortunately, I obtained the elixir, and I've finally fully recovered…"
Thinking of his previous trip to Xuan Tu Temple, Chu Zhaohuang's face darkened again.
The previous defeat in the Southern Expedition, especially the decline of the Chu family, led to the sect subtly targeting him, exiling him to Langya Mansion.
Chu Zhaohuang accepted it; his previous assistance to Li Yan Zhenren was intended to earn merit and return to the sect's core.
Even though Master Li Yan had officially taken over as the Flag Bearer, he still hadn't mentioned the recall...
'Sect infighting... do they think my Chu family is too deeply entrenched?' '
Li Yan is the same... seemingly fiery, but actually quite cunning... hateful...'
But just then, Chu Zhaohuang felt a chill run down his spine.
Outside the cave, the original Purple Mansion Formation seemed to be subjected to an inexplicable force, rising with endless ripples, carrying flames.
Whoosh!
A beam of emerald flame shot into the sky, and Chu Zhaohuang's figure appeared within it: "Fellow Daoist?"
Whoosh!
A sword light rushed into the already malfunctioning formation, and with a gentle flick, several parts of the formation's foundation were reduced to ashes.
"It's you?"
Chu Zhaohuang recognized the swordsman who had clashed with him that day at a glance, his hands forming a seal, and the 'Ash of Calamity Seal' was unleashed.
But the next instant, the flames in the sky flickered, shaking the 'Azure Flame of Withered Bones'!
A Purple Mansion Dharma Body descended, endless smoke and flames mingling to form a giant with an inner darkness and outer red hue, its massive hand slamming down.
[Beak Fire] Divine Ability—'Stagnation of Clouds and Smoke'!
This Purple Mansion cultivator had clearly used this divine ability as a foundation to cultivate a Fire Virtue Dharma Body!
"Not good, there's another expert!"
Chu Zhaohuang didn't hesitate, drawing his 'Crimson Sky Sword' from his waist.
A wooden sword pierced through the void, resting against the Crimson Sky Sword.
His face flushed red, suppressing the blood that was about to spurt out. With a thought, he immediately stepped into the Great Void. The reason
Purple Mansion True Persons were so difficult to kill lay in their ability to roam the Great Void!
"Chase!"
A group of True Persons entered the Great Void one after another, watching the fleeing emerald flame.
But in an instant, Fang Qing inexplicably had a sudden impulse, looking at the Scattered Wood True Person.
This True Person cultivated the 'Camphor Willow God,' also known as the Ear-Reporting God, skilled in hearing good and bad omens.
At this moment, his expression also changed: "An ambush!"
Flames flashed repeatedly in the void, revealing three Purple Mansion True Persons—two in the early stage and one in the middle stage. The leader was none other than 'Li Yan'!
His eyes flashed like lightning as he swept over Fang Qing and the others, laughing heartily: "Good...very good. Daring to oppose the Upper Sect, none of you will escape alive today!"
True Person Li Yan raised his hand, and a banner appeared, unfurling almost completely enveloping the void.
Furthermore, raging Heavenly Flames sealed off the void.
"It's True Person Li Yan, the Heavenly Flame Banner?" True
Person Sanmu's expression was grim.
"How could a mere rogue cultivator know the foundation of my Immortal Sect...when it comes to divination of heavenly secrets and seeking good fortune and avoiding misfortune...can he compare to a Grand True Person?"
True Person Li Yan's eyes were mocking, as if staring at a lab rat: "Let me see just what kind of person the renowned Four Extinctions Sect Master truly is!"