My Taoist buddy has practiced surrogacy

Chapter 1441 Barrier
Despite his bloodied and mangled fingers, Zhou Xing gritted his teeth and persevered, his fingertips digging deep into the cracks in the stone, leaving bloody marks. The second night, he was left alone in the scripture pavilion to fight against the torment of his inner demons. Various illusions came in turn, but he remained unmoved. The final test was the most dangerous—venturing deep into a poisonous, miasma-filled valley to collect spiritual herbs.

In a cave filled with venomous spiderwebs, Zhou Xing was attacked by a mutated venomous dragon. In the nick of time, he comprehended the true essence of the basic sword technique, severing the snake's head with a perfect arc using his ordinary iron longsword. Seeing the gleam in the young man's eyes as he returned covered in wounds, Ling Xue finally nodded: "From this day forward, you are the founding disciple of my Linglu Sect."

Inside the Instruction Hall, Ling Xue personally guided Zhou Xing in practicing the basic breathing techniques. As she placed her palm against her disciple's back to channel her inner energy, she suddenly sensed an unusual fluctuation. It turned out that Zhou Xing possessed a hidden sealing power, which caused subtle tremors whenever he circulated his inner energy. Even stranger, the half-jade pendant began to heat up and glow, seemingly responding to some kind of summons.

As his cultivation improved, Zhou Xing proposed to enter the forbidden area behind the mountain for trials. Ling Xue pondered for a long time before agreeing to go with him, but secretly placed a protective immortal aura around him. The two passed through the illusion array and entered the ancient cultivation cave that had not been opened for a thousand years, where they saw ancient characters that had long been lost engraved on the stone walls.

During the process of deciphering the mechanism, they triggered a barrage of arrows. Countless arrows formed from condensed spiritual energy shot from all directions. Ling Xue deployed a defensive barrier to protect her disciples, only to discover that these attacks were specifically aimed at non-cultivators. In the critical moment, Zhou Xing suddenly leaped to the center of the formation, his jade pendant emitting a clear light that formed a barrier, absorbing and transforming all the killing intent!
Deeper within the secret chamber lay a massive bronze coffin, its lid covered in countless demon-suppressing talismans. As the two approached, the ground suddenly collapsed, plunging them into an underground altar. At the center of the altar stood a stone pillar shaped like a coiled dragon, its top inlaid with a luminous pearl that perfectly matched the notch in the jade pendant. Just then, the guardian beast, dormant for millennia, awoke.
It was the remnant soul of a Qilin with wings on its back, its body shrouded in chaotic energy. It roared deafeningly as it charged at the intruder, and Ling Xue immediately summoned her natal magic weapon, the Seven Star Silk, to fight it. Unexpectedly, the divine beast possessed exceptional intelligence, recognizing the human cultivator's weakness and turning its attack on Zhou Xing instead. At the critical moment, the jade pendant on the young man's chest perfectly aligned with the recessed pearl, and the dazzling light it emitted temporarily suppressed the ferocious beast!
After unlocking the secret treasure chamber with the power of the jade pendant, the two discovered a jade slip containing ancient secrets. It turns out that this mountain range was once the boundary between the mortal and immortal realms, where a wandering immortal once laid out a grand scheme. The jade pendant on Zhou Xing's person was one of the key pieces in this scheme, and his true identity was actually the reincarnation of that immortal!
The news spread, attracting covetous eyes from all sides. On a dark and windy night, dozens of masked cultivators launched a surprise attack on the Linglu Sect. Their coordinated attacks clearly indicated premeditation. The elder leader, holding a Soul-Capturing Banner, pointed directly at Zhou Xing: "Hand over the token of your immortal destiny and I'll spare your lives!" Ling Xue stood in front, sword in hand, activating the mountain-protecting array, only to discover a familiar face among the enemies—a former disciple who had been expelled from the sect years ago!
During the fierce battle, the seal within Zhou Xing's body loosened, triggering a celestial phenomenon: a gale-force wind and lightning tore through the night sky. His eyes, bloodshot and nearly out of control, caught a glimpse of his master's blood-stained robes, instantly snapping him back to reality and gripping his longsword tightly. Master and disciple stood back-to-back, facing their formidable foe, their swords clashing to form a life-or-death defensive line. At the crucial moment, the jade pendant once again activated, stabilizing his mind, and Zhou Xing comprehended the true essence of the sword intent left behind by the immortal.

As dawn broke, the invaders had all retreated. Looking at the devastated mountain gate, Ling Xue showed weariness for the first time. Zhou Xing knelt on one knee, offering freshly collected morning dew: "I will never forget Master's teachings. This disciple vows to forever guard the mountain gate and protect my fellow disciples." The morning light pierced through the clouds, illuminating his resolute face; his former mortal body had transformed into that of a true cultivator.

Ten years have passed in the blink of an eye. The Linglu Sect has now become a rising star in the cultivation world, and Zhou Xing has grown into a powerful figure capable of standing on his own. On this day, auspicious purple clouds appeared in the east, revealing the arrival of a celestial messenger. The messenger read out an edict inviting Ling Xue to ascend to the upper realm to assume an important position, but questioned Zhou Xing's identity: "How can a mortal ascend to the heavenly court?"

Facing the expectant gazes of the crowd, Ling Xue smiled calmly, "If I cannot bring my disciple along, I would rather remain in the mortal realm." With that, she took out her treasured Enlightenment Tea, which she had kept for many years, and presented it to him. As the tea's aroma filled the air, Zhou Xing suddenly understood the profound mystery of life and death, breaking free from his shackles, and his body radiated a lustrous, azure light. It turned out that over the years he had secretly deciphered the secrets of the jade pendant, integrating the strengths of various schools, and had already acquired the qualifications to reach the pinnacle.

A seven-colored cloud bridge spans the three realms above the Ascension Platform, and Ling Xue and her disciples travel on the clouds. Passing the Southern Heavenly Gate, the celestial general guarding it attempts to stop Zhou Xing, a mortal, but is intimidated by the divine weapon in his hand, which blooms with a blue lotus. Upon entering the Immortal Realm, they discover the profound depth of the scheme laid out years ago—the wandering immortal who left behind the jade pendant is none other than the current War Star Lord!

On the day of the grand apprenticeship ceremony held by the Jade Pool, the Star Lord of War stroked his beard and exclaimed, "My good grand-disciple has lived up to my expectations." Ling Xue watched with a smile as Zhou Xing received the congratulations of the immortals, her heart stirred with emotion. She knew that this bond that transcended the mortal and immortal realms was far from over, and that a wider world awaited them to explore in the future.
The summer sun was blazing and bright, its rays scattering like fragments of gold across the lush mulberry grove. Ling Xue, dressed in faded coarse cloth, was tiptoeing, picking mulberry leaves. Her hands deftly moved among the branches and leaves, placing the tender, verdant leaves one by one into her bamboo basket. Beads of sweat slid down her smooth forehead, dampening a few strands of hair that fell beside her cheeks.

Suddenly, the crisp sound of horses' hooves approached from afar. Ling Xue looked up curiously and saw a young man in a moon-white robe riding a fine horse slowly towards them. The horse was jet black, its mane flowing in the wind, which further accentuated the handsome and imposing figure of the rider. This man was none other than Zhou Xing, a newly appointed scholar who had passed through this area on his way to the capital for the imperial examinations. Feeling tired from his long journey, he dismounted to rest for a while and inadvertently wandered into this mulberry grove.

Zhou Xing's gaze fell upon Ling Xue, who was picking mulberry leaves. Her focused expression and simple, unpretentious appearance were like a natural ink painting, stirring a ripple in his heart. As if guided by a spirit, he stepped forward and softly asked, "Miss, may I have a bowl of water?" Ling Xue was slightly taken aback, then smiled kindly, nodded, and led Zhou Xing to a nearby stream. She knelt down, cupped her hands, scooped up some clear water, tasted it first, and only after confirming it was safe did she scoop some for Zhou Xing.

Zhou Xing took the water and drank it all in one gulp. The cool, sweet stream water instantly dispelled the heat from his body. He looked at Ling Xue gratefully, and their eyes met, both seeing innocence and kindness in each other's eyes. After exchanging a few simple pleasantries, Zhou Xing learned that Ling Xue's family made a living by raising silkworms and weaving silk, and he admired her hardworking and thrifty nature even more.

Before parting, Zhou Xing left Ling Xue a keepsake engraved with his family seal, telling her that she could use it to seek his help if she ever encountered difficulties in the future. Ling Xue held the exquisite jade pendant, watching Zhou Xing's departing figure, a strange feeling welling up in her heart, like a stone thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples.

A few days later, one morning, Ling Xue opened her door as usual to go to work in the mulberry grove, only to find a magnificent carriage parked outside, surrounded by several servants. Stepping out of the carriage was none other than Zhou Xing, whom she had met in the mulberry grove that day! He was now dressed in a brocade robe, looking even more dashing.

It turned out that Zhou Xing had passed the imperial examination with flying colors and been granted an official position, but he hadn't forgotten the girl who had left a deep impression on him in the mulberry grove. After making inquiries, he finally found Ling Xue's home. This time, he had come to formally propose marriage. The news exploded like a bombshell in the small village, and the villagers gathered around, discussing it animatedly. Some envied Ling Xue's good fortune in marrying into a powerful family; others questioned whether Zhou Xing was only after her beauty; still others believed that the two families were not well-matched and that the marriage would not last.

Ling Xue's parents were also caught in a dilemma. On the one hand, they were happy that their daughter had won the favor of such an outstanding young man; on the other hand, they worried that their daughter would suffer if she married into a wealthy family. Late at night, under the oil lamp, the mother held Ling Xue's hand, hesitant to speak, while the father puffed on his pipe, his face full of worry. Faced with the reactions of the crowd, Zhou Xing showed extraordinary determination. He publicly swore at the village entrance: "I will only love Ling Xue in my life, I will never take a concubine, and I will protect her." His sincere words touched the hearts of many present. However, the elders still opposed the marriage, believing it violated traditional social class concepts. At this critical moment, the village's respected schoolteacher stepped forward and said, "Heroes are not judged by their origins, and good marriages are not bound by social status. Since Young Master Zhou is sincere, we should grant his blessing." With the schoolteacher's support, public opinion gradually shifted in favor of the couple.

On their wedding day, the entire village was immersed in a festive atmosphere. Red lanterns hung in front of the simple yet joyous thatched cottage, and the courtyard was filled with a feast. Zhou Xing personally escorted Ling Xue into the family, showing no airs whatsoever. According to custom, the newlyweds were to offer tea to their parents and address them as "parents." When Ling Xue, with trembling hands, picked up the teacup and handed it to her parents-in-law, the two elders accepted it with kind smiles and presented her with a generous gift in return.

Their married life was sweet and warm. Although Zhou Xing was an official, he would spend his free time helping Ling Xue tend the mulberry fields and feed the silkworms. He also used his knowledge to improve local silkworm rearing techniques, which greatly increased silk production. The couple often sat side by side by the window, watching the busy scene outside and discussing how to further develop their business.

Soon after, Ling Xue became pregnant. This news overjoyed the whole family. Zhou Xing made a small cradle for the unborn child, intricately carved with beautiful patterns. As the due date approached, the whole family grew tense. Finally, the day of delivery arrived. The midwife bustled in and out, while Zhou Xing anxiously paced outside the door. Only when a baby's loud cry rang out did he breathe a sigh of relief, a happy smile spreading across his face. It was a lovely son! They named the child "An'er," meaning peace and health.

Just as the family was enjoying their time together, undercurrents were swirling in the imperial court. Because Zhou Xing's reform proposals threatened the interests of some conservatives, they united to impeach him for forming cliques and engaging in favoritism. An imperial edict was issued, and Zhou Xing was demoted to a remote post. This sudden turn of events plunged this once happy family into hardship.

Upon receiving the order, Zhou Xing did not hesitate and decided to relocate his entire family. On the day of their departure, the villagers spontaneously came to see them off, their eyes filled with reluctance and worry. The journey was bumpy and arduous, but they supported each other and never gave up hope. Upon arriving at their destination, they discovered that the environment was harsh, the land was barren, and living conditions were extremely difficult.

To make a living, Ling Xue led her family to reclaim wasteland and plant crops. Her hands became rough and calloused again, but she never complained. Zhou Xing did not succumb to despair either, but actively integrated himself into the local community, teaching them to read and write and helping them build water conservancy projects. Thanks to his efforts, the local cultural and educational undertakings improved significantly, and the people's attitude towards him gradually changed.

However, misfortune struck again when a rare locust plague swept across the region. Vast tracts of crops were destroyed, and famine gripped the entire area. Seeing the starving people struggling to survive, Ling Xue was filled with anxiety. She remembered a herbal insect-repelling formula used in her hometown and risked her life to prepare a solution to spray on the fields. After countless trials, she finally succeeded in controlling the pests and saving part of the harvest. This act not only saved many lives but also earned her the respect of the locals.

Just when everyone thought life would continue to be difficult, a turning point arrived. An imperial envoy, sent incognito, visited the area to secretly investigate the people's conditions. He discovered Zhou Xing's achievements in governing the region and his effective measures in combating disasters, and was deeply moved. Upon returning to the capital, he truthfully reported to the emperor. Overjoyed, the emperor not only reinstated Zhou Xing to his official position but also transferred him back to the capital to assume important responsibilities.

Upon returning to the capital, Zhou Xing became more mature and composed. He learned from his previous mistakes, acting cautiously and discreetly without compromising his principles. With his outstanding talent and upright character, he quickly earned the respect and support of his colleagues. At the same time, he remained deeply concerned about the hardships faced by the people, promoting the implementation of a series of policies that benefited the country and its people.

As his status rose, so did his family life. But no matter what, Zhou Xing always cared deeply for Ling Xue. Whenever he was busy with official duties, he would always take time to walk and chat with her, sharing their feelings. Their love story became a legend in the capital, and people praised them as a model couple who had stood by each other through thick and thin.

As time went by, the children grew into adults. The eldest son followed in his father's footsteps and entered officialdom; the second daughter followed her mother to learn the ways of business management and became a shrewd and capable businesswoman. The family lived happily together, enjoying the joys of family life.

Years later, Zhou Xing retired and returned to his hometown. He and Ling Xue went back to the mulberry grove where they had first met and built a small courtyard. As the sun set, the two old people strolled hand in hand along the country path, reminiscing about the past. The hardships and setbacks they had experienced had now become precious memories.

The sight of grandchildren playing around his knees filled the air with a warm, loving atmosphere. Occasionally, old friends would visit, and they would all enjoy tea and conversation, savoring the peaceful and beautiful years of their later years. Sometimes, when the mood struck him, Zhou Xing would pick up a pen and write a few poems to express his feelings; Ling Xue would sit beside him, listening with a smile, occasionally interjecting with a few playful remarks.

As night fell, the two sat in the courtyard gazing at the starry sky.