The Rise of the Sect: I am the most persistent person in the world of immortal cultivation

Ye Yang watched as the law enforcement cultivator helped Su Wanqing leave, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure for a moment.

He then regained his composure and turned to step into Lingxiao City.

As an important stronghold of the Dao Alliance in the Star Sea Demon Realm, Lingxiao City is bustling with cultivators, and the streets are lined with shops selling all kinds of pills, magical artifacts and cultivation manuals.

Even the air itself was filled with rich spiritual energy and a faint Daoist charm.

Ye Yang was dressed in a blue Taoist robe, his aura was restrained, but it was hard to hide his extraordinary demeanor.

This attracted the attention of many cultivators, and those who recognized him bowed respectfully.

He merely nodded slightly in response, and without stopping, walked straight toward the Dao Alliance Council Hall.

The council hall is located in the center of Lingxiao City and is built of ten-thousand-year-old white jade.

The roof of the hall is covered with glazed tiles, which gleam in the sunlight. Two stone pillars with coiled dragons stand in front of the hall, creating a magnificent atmosphere.

Upon seeing that it was Ye Yang, the cultivators guarding the main hall dared not obstruct him in the slightest. They quickly pushed open the hall door and respectfully invited him inside.

The hall was brightly lit, with a huge white jade table in the center and dozens of chairs arranged on both sides.

At this moment, only an elderly man with a thin face, dressed in a yellow Taoist robe, sat upright at the table; he was none other than Taoist Jin Yu.

When Jin Yu Dao Ren noticed someone entering, he looked up and saw Ye Yang. A hint of surprise flashed in his eyes, and he immediately stood up and smiled.

"Master Ye's presence is a great honor to Lingxiao City! May I ask what brings you here today?"

Ye Yang stepped forward and bowed with his hands clasped in greeting.

"Fellow Daoist, you are too kind. I have come here today to ask you for a favor, which concerns the safety of the Flying Heaven Sect and even the entire Star Sea Demon Realm."

Upon hearing this, Daoist Jin Yu's expression hardened, and he quickly invited Ye Yang to sit down.

"Please speak, Daoist Master Ye. If the Dao Alliance can help, we will certainly not refuse."

After Ye Yang sat down, he spoke slowly.

"Recently, the Flying Heaven Sect has suffered a calamity. The spatial barrier of the sect's headquarters has cracked, allowing demonic energy to leak out. Many disciples have already been corrupted by the demonic energy, resulting in a loss of strength. What's more serious is that the crack in the barrier is showing signs of widening."

"Once it completely collapses, the demonic energy of the Star Sea Demon Realm will surge out, affecting several surrounding sects, and the consequences will be unimaginable."

Jin Yu Daoist's expression grew increasingly solemn.

"Is this really the case? The spatial barrier is of utmost importance and must not be lost! I wonder what kind of assistance Dao Ancestor Ye needs from the Dao Alliance?"

"I've heard that Lingxiao City possesses a top-grade treasure called the 'Earth Vein Attraction Bead',"

Ye Yang stared directly at Jin Yu Dao Ren.

"This bead can draw upon the power of the earth's veins, stabilize space, and repair barriers. I would like to borrow the Earth Vein Drawing Bead from the Dao Alliance. Once the spatial barrier of the Flying Heaven Gate is repaired, I will return it to you in its entirety."

Upon hearing this, Daoist Jinyu remained silent for a moment, his brows furrowing slightly.

“Master Ye, you may not know this, but the Earth Vein Guiding Pearl is the treasure of the Dao Alliance, and it is not something I can decide on my own. This matter is of great importance, and I need to report to my master immediately so that he can make the decision.”

Ye Yang nodded in understanding.

"That's only right. Please inform the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal as soon as possible, Fellow Daoist Jin Yu. The spatial barrier of the Flying Heaven Sect can't be delayed any longer, or things will change."

"Master Ye, please wait a moment."

After speaking, Daoist Jin Yu got up and quickly walked into the secret chamber behind the hall to report the matter to the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal through the communication array.

Ye Yang sat in the hall, his fingers unconsciously tapping on the table as he pondered the current state of the Flying Heaven Sect.

If the cracks in the spatial barrier are not repaired in time, and the demons seize the opportunity to launch a large-scale invasion, the Flying Gate's base will likely become a target of everyone's attacks.

The Earth Vein Guiding Bead can repair the damaged spiritual vein barrier, and it is currently the only hope.

No matter the cost, we must get it.

About half an hour later, Daoist Jinyu emerged from the secret chamber with a smile on his face.

"Master Ye, the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal has replied."

Ye Yang quickly got up.

"I wonder what the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal thinks?"

"The Azure Lotus Sword Immortal said that the Flying Heaven Sect and the Dao Alliance both belong to the righteous path and should support each other."

"It was Jin Yu Dao Ren speaking slowly."

"The Earth Vein Traction Bead can be given to the Flying Heaven Sect, but it is not a 'loan,' but a 'gift.'"

Upon hearing this, Ye Yang's pupils contracted sharply, and an expression of disbelief appeared on his face.

"A gift? This...why?"

He was well aware of the preciousness of the Earth Vein Guiding Beads.

Such a priceless treasure was unexpectedly given away by the Dao Alliance free of charge.

Jin Yu Dao Ren laughed.

"Master Ye, there's no need to be surprised. The Azure Lotus Sword Immortal has one condition: if Master Ye agrees, the Earth Vein Guiding Pearl will belong to the Flying Heaven Sect."

"What conditions?"

Ye Yang felt a chill run down his spine, realizing that there was no such thing as a free lunch and that the Dao Alliance must have something in mind.

"The Dao Alliance has long heard of Dao Ancestor Ye's unparalleled skill in both swordsmanship and sabers. Especially after his last lecture, they understand even more clearly that the swordsmanship created by Dao Ancestor Ye is incredibly powerful and can be considered the best in the world."

"That's what Jin Yu Dao Ren said."

"Therefore, Master hopes that Daozu Ye can impart all his swordsmanship skills to you. In exchange, the Earth Vein Guiding Pearl will be given to the Flying Heaven Sect to help you repair the spatial barrier."

Ye Yang was taken aback, and a look of hesitation appeared on his face.

His swordsmanship was created with the culmination of his life's work, incorporating his understanding of the Dao and his experience in countless life-and-death battles; it was the foundation of his livelihood.

Passing on such an important technique to outsiders is tantamount to revealing one's own secrets, which could be discovered by enemies in the future.

Perhaps we can find his weaknesses through his moves, which will inevitably bring endless troubles.

"Fellow Daoist Jin Yu, please allow me to think this over carefully."

Ye Yang pondered for a moment.

"The art of swordsmanship is a closely guarded secret of our Flying Heaven Sect. If it is passed on to outsiders rashly, it may affect our foundation."

Jin Yu Daoist had anticipated Ye Yang's hesitation, so he did not press the matter and simply spoke slowly.

"Master Ye, there is no need to rush to answer. Master has also considered this point and has specially proposed another condition for you to choose from."

"Please explain further, fellow Daoist."

"Master is currently trying to reach a higher level, but he has encountered a bottleneck in his understanding of sword intent."

"He hopes that Daoist Ye can spar with him, exchange insights during the sparring, and help him break through his bottleneck. In return, the Earth Vein Guiding Pearl will still be given to the Flying Heaven Sect, and the Dao Alliance promises that if the Flying Heaven Sect is ever in danger in the future, the Dao Alliance will do its utmost to help it."

Ye Yang's heart stirred.

By sparring and exchanging skills with the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal, one can not only preserve the core secrets of swordsmanship, obtain the Earth Vein Attraction Bead, but also forge a deeper bond with the Dao Alliance.

These conditions are far more favorable than the previous one.

The Azure Lotus Sword Immortal is a top-tier fighter in the Thunder Tribulation Realm, with unfathomable cultivation.

By sparring with him, I might also gain something and break through my current limitations.

But he also understood that sparring was no child's play. The Azure Lotus Sword Immortal was extremely powerful, and he could get injured if he was not careful.

"The Sword Immortal has been very kind to me. If I could help you advance further, I would be honored, but..."

At this point, Ye Yang spoke again.

"However, you are a Daoist of Thunder Tribulation, and your swordsmanship is renowned throughout the world. My swordsmanship is like a three-year-old child dancing in front of you. I wonder if you would even be impressed?"

Seeing Ye Yang's changing expression, Jin Yu Dao Ren spoke.

"Master Ye, please do not underestimate yourself. Your master has no ill intentions; he simply wants to make a breakthrough in swordsmanship. This sparring will end when we have reached our goal, and your master will compress his strength to the Refinement Void Realm, ensuring that neither of us will be harmed."

"Moreover, this is also a rare opportunity for Daozu Ye. His master's sword intent is extremely high, and he may be able to guide you through the maze."

Ye Yang remained silent for a moment, then made up his mind.

The safety of the Flying Heaven Sect is of paramount importance, and obtaining the Earth Vein Guiding Pearl is imperative. Sparring and exchanging skills with the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal is both a challenge and an opportunity.

"Okay, I agree to the second condition."

Ye Yang raised his head and said with a firm gaze.

"Please inform Senior Jin Yu that I am willing to exchange skills with him. However, please make arrangements as soon as possible, as I need to return to the Flying Heaven Gate with the Earth Vein Guiding Bead to repair the spatial barrier."

A satisfied smile appeared on Jin Yu Dao Ren's face.

"Master Ye is indeed straightforward! I will go and inform my master immediately. During this time, Master Ye can rest and recuperate in Lingxiao City. Please do not hesitate to ask for anything you need."

"Thank you, fellow Taoist."

Ye Yang bowed and thanked him. Jin Yu Daoist smiled and waved his hand.

"You're too kind, Dao Ancestor Ye. It is the Dao Alliance's duty to serve the righteous path. I will go and make the preparations now. Please make yourselves at home, Dao Ancestor Ye."

After saying that, he turned and left.

The night in Lingxiao City was darker than in other places.

Sparse stars dotted the dark blue sky, and moonlight streamed through the window, casting a silvery glow on the floor of the quiet room where Ye Yang was temporarily staying.

The room was minimally furnished, with only a wooden bed and a small table. On the table was an oil lamp that was still lit, swaying slightly as Ye Yang gathered his Dao power.

Ye Yang sat cross-legged on the bed, his eyes gently closed, surrounded by a faint blue Daoist aura.

The spiritual energy flowed slowly into his body with his breath, repairing the minor damage left from his battle with the Purple Scale Demon during the day.

Since agreeing to spar with the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal three days ago, Daoist Jin Yu arranged for him to stay in this quiet room located on the east side of Lingxiao City.

It was said to be convenient for recuperation, but news of the Azure Lotus Sword Immortal was delayed. Although Ye Yang was concerned about the safety of the Flying Heaven Sect, he could only calm down, recuperate, and wait for news.

Just as he was about to finish a round of breathing exercises, a soft knock came from outside the door.

"Tuk Tuk"

The sound wasn't loud, but it was exceptionally clear in the quiet night.

Ye Yang opened his eyes, a flash of azure light appearing in them, and he felt slightly surprised.

It was nearly 9 PM, and most of the cultivators in Lingxiao City had already closed their doors to rest. If Daoist Jinyu had any news, it should have come during the day. Who could be visiting so late at night?
He got out of bed, walked quietly to the door, and asked in a deep voice, "Who comes to visit so late at night?"

A soft, charming female voice came from outside the door, tinged with timidity and gentleness.

"Master Ye, it is I, Su Wanqing. I am grateful for your help during the day, and my injuries have improved somewhat. I have come to thank you, and I hope you will not take offense."

Ye Yang frowned slightly. Although Su Wanqing's injuries had improved, she shouldn't have come to visit alone so late at night, especially since the two weren't familiar with each other.

However, he never wanted to be impolite without reason, so after hesitating for a moment, he still reached out and opened the door.

The moment the door was pushed open, a faint, delicate fragrance wafted in. It wasn't the usual scent of a woman's cosmetics, but a sweet fragrance mixed with water lilies and honeydew.

Inhaling it through the nasal cavity, it surprisingly made one feel slightly distracted.

Ye Yang's eyes narrowed, and he subconsciously circulated his Dao power to protect his mind.

Su Wanqing stood outside the door, now dressed in a moon-white gauze dress. The skirt was as thin as a cicada's wing, and in the moonlight, one could almost see the outline of her figure.

Her skin, previously burned by the demonic fire, had fully recovered. Her exposed forearms were as white as jade, and her hair was neatly combed and held up with a plain silver hairpin.

A few stray hairs fell beside her cheeks, trembling gently with her breath. Her injuries had clearly healed remarkably well; her face was no longer as deathly pale as before, but instead tinged with a perfectly balanced blush.

Her almond-shaped eyes were watery, and when she looked at Ye Yang, her gaze was full of tenderness.

"Master Ye, I feel really bad for disturbing you so late at night."

Su Wanqing lowered her eyes slightly, her voice as soft as water.

"I am deeply grateful to you for saving my life during the day. I would feel uneasy if I did not come to thank you in person."

As she spoke, she slowly took a step forward, her sweet fragrance growing even stronger.

"I specially prepared some Qingling Soup, which is said to nourish one's Dao power. I thought I'd bring it to you to help you recover."

She was indeed holding a white jade bowl in her hand, filled with a light blue soup, steaming hot and emitting a fragrance similar to that of her.

"Fellow Daoist Su, you're too kind. It was just a small favor; there's no need to go to such trouble."

Ye Yang stepped aside to make way for her in the doorway, but made no move to invite her in, his tone indifferent.

"I appreciate the soup, but your injuries haven't healed yet, so you should go back and rest as soon as possible."

Su Wanqing seemed oblivious to the distance in his words, and without stopping, she walked straight into the quiet room and placed the white jade bowl on the table.

As she turned around, the hem of her skirt gently brushed against Ye Yang's arm, bringing a slightly cool sensation.

She looked up, her eyes filled with a mixture of grievance and shyness.

"Master Ye, are you still blaming me for using methods I shouldn't have during the day? I know I was wrong, but I was just too eager to stay by your side, and that's why I acted so foolishly..."

As she spoke, she slowly approached Ye Yang, almost touching him, her voice lowered, carrying a hint of deliberate murmuring.

"Master Ye, I have been captivated by you since the first time I saw you. Your supernatural powers are vast and your demeanor is extraordinary. You are the best cultivator I have ever seen."

"Although I am of humble appearance, I am somewhat skilled in music, chess, calligraphy and painting, and I am also capable of taking care of your daily life. If you are willing, I... I am willing to serve you by your side for the rest of my life."

Before she could finish speaking, she raised her hand to touch Ye Yang's sleeve. (End of Chapter)