Advance the future and become a martial saint on earth!

Chapter 232 Companions are trivial matters; the Great Dao is paramount! How can romantic love control us? We are upright and honest!

The Eastern Sea, the Water God's Palace.

It was a colossal object that fell into the endless whirlpool of the vast ocean, located east of 'Beicang', a hundred and twenty years ago.

They are descendants of the True Dragon, with profound foundations, and were once the hegemonic force of the Crimson Heaven, one of the Great Heavens of the Immortals.

It is said that after losing a battle for legitimacy to another major lineage of dragon descendants, in order to ensure the continuation of the lineage, he had to use a secret method to fall into the territory of the Great Xuan. Since then, he has signed a contract with the Jiang clan and occupied the East Canghai Sea as an inland barrier.

Regarding status.

Although it is not as influential as the Ten Heavenly Pillars or the Nine Great Chambers, and is known throughout the world, the mansion's foundation should not be underestimated.

Within this vast and sprawling water palace, which resembles a giant city in the water, lies a magnificent and interconnected structure.

At the very heart of the palace, the Dragon Lord's Palace, which symbolizes the exclusive domain of the 'Dragon's Bloodline,' stands a pavilion in the water, adorned with lotus blossoms.

Bai Shuo, whose appearance is completely different from that of the former 'Jiangyin County', has long since removed his veil.

The girl had bluish-green hair, heterochromatic eyes, and a dazzling crimson-gold dragon pattern between her brows, like the finishing touch.

At this moment, dressed in a light blue palace dress, she sat gracefully by the railing overlooking the view of the pavilion, gazing at the lotus flowers filling the courtyard, and simply stretched out her delicate hand to gently touch them.

Suddenly, like a thunderclap, the lotus flowers in the courtyard swayed and rippled, and it took a long time for them to calm down.

Upon closer inspection, the girl seemed to be enveloped by a layer of ethereal dragon might, radiating a crimson glow and exuding extraordinary majesty.

The personal maid Qingtuan blinked and immediately jumped up, her face beaming with delight:
"Young Master, your 'Candle Dragon Body' has truly been forged!"

"These are the three most orthodox methods of 'bloodline refinement' that our Water Lord's Palace has established after laying its foundation. They are comparable to the Four Limits Treasure Body that allows a Human Immortal to break through the Five Treasures, and the ascension of a Qi Refining cultivator to the Purple Mansion!"

"Continue at this pace"

"Even if our Water Lord's Mansion were to choose a husband for you in the future, wouldn't we have to recruit the most distinguished and noble sons from the most powerful and wealthy families to even be worthy of our attention?"

"She's at least much better than the other branch dragon girls with average talent!"

Qingtuan clapped her hands, circled around Bai Shuo, and kept talking.

The dragon descendants of the Water Lord's Mansion have a main lineage and branch lineages. For the past 120 years, in order to gain a foothold in this 'human-immortal martial arts' realm, they have maintained close ties and friendships with the noble families of the outside world.

Furthermore, dragon descendants are naturally powerful, possessing extraordinary physical abilities. If they have children with them, the next generation of offspring will be born with extraordinary talents and will achieve great things in martial arts.

Therefore, noble families have always been willing to marry dragon princesses, even at great cost and with generous dowries. The purer the bloodline, or even if she is the daughter of the Dragon King, the more generous the conditions offered.

If one cannot demonstrate their own 'value'.

Therefore, social gatherings are inevitable.

However, the Candle Dragon Dharma Body is a secret manual for the transformation of the three sects after the disciples of the 'Water Lord's Mansion' have grown up, and only the descendants of dragons can cultivate it.

Its status is similar to a martial artist forging a martial arts treasure body and ranking among the top of the 'Great Profound Treasure Body'; it is not something that can be achieved casually.

If one cannot visualize even a trace of the 'ancestor's' spirit, there is absolutely no possibility of achieving success.

And that's how such a 'dragon body' could be forged.
Bai Shuo's future prospects became incredibly hot in an instant.

At least there is a choice now. Even the Dragon King, after careful consideration, will most likely choose to "recruit a son-in-law" rather than betroth him to someone else.

Therefore, upon hearing Qing Tuan's words, Bai Shuo revealed a reserved and faint smile:
"It can be considered a successful completion."

"but"

When the maid Qing Tuan finished speaking, Bai Shuo's smile suddenly faded:

"What's so good about associating with those so-called sons of wealthy families?"

"In the end, it's better to rely on yourself for everything, which is more comfortable."

She frowned slightly.
"My father spends his days cultivating relationships with those high-ranking and well-dressed families, hoping to achieve great things and advance further in the decades to come."

"This time, by forging the 'Candle Dragon Dharma Body,' I have had the opportunity to trace back to my ancestry and stand out from the crowd of 'dragon sons and grandsons,' thus qualifying to be listed in the 'Dragon Descendant Register.'"

"From then on, we were no longer at the mercy of others, and we were able to begin to take control of our own destiny."

"But, this is not enough."

"Now, I have thirteen 'dragon sons and daughters' who have been given names before me."

"Now that I have forged the Candle Dragon Dharma Body, if my father knew, he would surely elevate my status, bestow my name upon me, and promote me to 'Princess Shuo'."

"From now on, he will be qualified to travel the land as the true young master of the Water Palace."

"Following his usual practice, he would immediately follow up with extensive publicity to create value for me. Once his reputation spread, he would attract wealthy and powerful families and their scions to flock to him."

Bai Shuo gazed at the crystal palace where countless water tribesmen paid homage, her beautiful eyes filled with complex emotions:

"But if I have to choose."

“I would rather choose a ‘son-in-law’ whom I have personally groomed and know well than associate with those powerful forces.”

"Fortunately, having forged a Dharma body, comparable to a martial artist at the fourth level, with a nearly flawless body, I have demonstrated my value and will no longer need to be confined to this Water Lord's Palace."

"If we don't go out and fight for it, we'll never have a chance to change things."

Bai Shuo murmured softly:
"In a little over a month, a gateway to the 'Crimson Sky' will be temporarily opened on the Eastern Cang Sea."

"And the other entrance is the 'Xuanfu Sect,' one of the ten major sects of the Crimson Sky Heaven."

"I've heard that this gate was opened because..."

"This is because the 'Yuanfu Cave Heaven' of a great supernatural being is about to surface."

"Due to these changes, the Great Xuan Beicang vassal state and the Xuanfu Sect experts used powerful methods to investigate in advance, and with my father's intervention, they all confirmed in advance that this place is covered by an 'invisible barrier' to prevent those with great supernatural powers from entering."

"All three factions wanted to explore and investigate the mysteries within, so they joined forces for a 'trial.' A month later, the true disciple of the Xuanfu Sect, the dragon descendant of the Water Lord's Mansion, and the prodigy of Beicang..."

"They will all go there, and under the supervision of the three parties, step into this 'Yuanfu Cave Heaven'."

"This trial, as is customary in Beicang, is still called the 'Grand Examination for Prefectural Officials,' but in reality, it has far exceeded the scope and contains endless mysteries."

"Now that I have successfully condensed the 'Candle Dragon Dharma Body,' as long as I inform my father, I will be qualified to go for the trial, which is exactly what he wants for me to make a name for myself."

"That great master made a name for himself back then; if one could obtain even a fraction of his legacy..."

Bai Shuo's eyes were filled with anticipation:

"Perhaps, there will be a chance to completely decide my own fate, and even compete for the position of the young master of the 'Water Lord's Mansion'!"

Previously, the 'Water Lord's Palace' had been produced.

Therefore, Bai Shuo longed even more to measure that vast and boundless land with his own two feet.

And at this moment—

Outside the water pavilion, a water servant with a face covered in silver scales respectfully announced:

"Young Lord, a water dragon who calls himself 'Lord Cangming' has come to pay his respects."

"Should we introduce it into the water palace?"

Cangming Jun?
Bai Shuo, who was daydreaming about his future prospects, suddenly paused.

Then I remembered that boy who was in a remote and impoverished area, yet was different from everyone else.

Even though more than half a year had passed.

But Bai Shuo's memory remains clear.

Upon hearing this, the green dumpling beside her looked indignant and began to chatter incessantly:

"Young Master, it must be that kid you sponsored half a year ago who ran into trouble."

"You've been so good to him, even telling him about your situation and offering words of encouragement, and yet when he runs into trouble, he sends that giant dragon to find you. It's obvious he's just trying to cause you more trouble. You should just drive that black dragon away."

Before she could finish speaking, Bai Shuo, who had risen and was swaying in her palace dress, silenced her with a kiss.

"Tell him to transform into human form and then enter the outer cabinet for an audience."

After giving the order to the guard who had come to inform him, Bai Shuo glanced at Qing Tuan:
"Although I have not spent much time with Ji Xiu, I know what kind of person he is."

“He wouldn’t come looking for me unless it was something important.”

Having said that, she lightly moved her shoes and socks and went to the outer chamber. There she was.

Cangming Jun, who had materialized into human form and was a full two meters tall with long black hair, was waiting somewhat awkwardly. Upon seeing Bai Shuo arrive, he immediately uttered something astonishing:

"Young lord, the son-in-law you've chosen is about to be snatched away by someone else!"

"Little Jiao, after hearing this, I came to inform you as soon as possible."

Cangming Jun looked completely serious, which startled Bai Shuo, causing her pretty face to freeze in surprise.
"Kidnapped?"

She hadn't figured out what was going on.

Then Cangming Jun recounted the whole story.

This included all matters, large and small, concerning 'Jiangyin Prefecture'.

Upon hearing that Ji Xiu's experiences had been so legendary in just six months, Bai Shuo's first reaction was to listen to a story.

However, Cangmingjun's earnest and eloquent speech did not seem to be a pretense.

Bai Shuo's eyes couldn't help but show a hint of appreciation again.

In such a short time, he went from a mere martial artist to breaking through bottlenecks and thresholds, becoming a master of the second level of the sect, inheriting the powerful body, and joining the majestic True Sect.

Are these people not much better than the sons of noble families in their fine clothes?
For a moment, Bai Shuo was incredibly confident in his judgment, and some of his previous concerns and worries were also relieved.

If Ji Xiuzhen can rise higher and higher, expanding his influence in the Beicang prefecture, then her father should not refuse her request to "connect" with him under the guise of friendship.

But they were kidnapped?
Bai Shuo felt a jolt in his heart, a sense of unease washing over him as someone coveted a treasure he had secretly hidden away.

Before he could even speak, Cangming Jun told him everything about the Beicang Marquis's mansion.

"Xiao Mingli, the heiress of the Marquis of Beicang's household."

"Should we discuss marriage with them?"

The young master of the Water Lord's Palace repeated it softly, his beautiful eyebrows furrowing slightly.

At the same time, Qingtuan, who was following closely behind her, also exclaimed in surprise:
"Young Master, that boy is fickle. Could it be that he intends to start something and then abandon it?"

Upon hearing this, Bai Shuo was speechless and turned around to glare at her fiercely.

How come this brat makes it sound like a done deal when nothing's even remotely happening?
but
Recalling the scenes of her interactions with Ji Xiu, especially the 'blood-forged dragon bone' incident, where she almost shared a bed with him for one night and was nearly drained of her life force, she remembered them all.
Bai Shuo pursed her lips, feeling somewhat uncomfortable, but there was nothing she could say.

The daughter of a marquis, with her esteemed status and right before her eyes, was someone she truly couldn't compare to. Moreover, in the end, the relationship between the two was nothing more than a 'promise'.

But how could he possibly marry another woman before fulfilling his promise?
However, after a brief moment of slight distress, Bai Shuo shook his head, severing the lingering affection in his heart like a sword of wisdom.

At the same time, his eyes became even brighter.

The Cangming Lord before him felt that this bright-eyed and white-toothed female ruler was unparalleled in majesty, and a sense of shame and inferiority arose spontaneously within him.

Everyone has their own choices, and everyone has their own path to follow.

The road ahead is vast and challenging; how can it be swayed by a simple statement of love and affection?

A romantic partner is a small matter; the Great Way is paramount!
Moreover, given that Ji Xiu was able to rise to prominence in such a short time, besides his natural talent and ability to assess the situation, he must have also been good at weighing the pros and cons.

How could I possibly bind him tightly because of a vague and unfounded 'promise'?
He should have his own choice.

Moreover, when the 'Yuan Mansion' is fully opened, if Ji Xiu wants to compete for the 'Mansion Official' position, the two will meet again.

When old friends meet again, the reason for their separation will be clear upon asking.

Bai Shuo then smiled, offering no comment, but simply nodded slightly, thus moving on to another matter:

"I see, I understand."

"The journey from Jiangyin Prefecture was arduous."

“Back then, you served Ji Xiu and protected him, which was quite good. I haven’t forgotten what I promised you.”

"Now that my Dharma body has been established, I will soon be recorded in the 'Water Palace Register' and bestowed with a name by imperial decree, thus gaining some authority and influence."

"I can vouch for the trouble that you committed that day, Lord Jiao, and I will allow you to return to the Water Palace."

Upon hearing this, Cangming Jun's eyes lit up immediately, thinking to himself, "Isn't this exactly what I've been looking for?"

So he was about to readily agree.

But the next moment, a hint of hesitation appeared in his eyes as he recalled Ji Xiu's journey to rise to power.

After a moment's hesitation, he gritted his teeth and stamped his foot, finding solace in the fact that he had already visited his wives and concubines at home, which could be considered a brief 'reunion'. He then decided, after some deliberation:

"Thank you for your kindness, young master, but..."

"Little Jiao has decided to continue serving Master Ji and will not return to the Water Lord's Mansion for the time being."

Cangmingjun had a premonition.

If he agrees to return to the 'Water Lord's Palace' this time, although his long-cherished wish will be fulfilled, his life from now on will probably be nothing more than this.

But if one were to follow Ji Xiu, given the fortunes of that employer...
Maybe one day!
Then you will have the chance to transform into a dragon!
In that case,

Why not take another chance? Maybe you'll be able to return home in glory. Wouldn't that be much more prestigious than being a cautious, lowly black dragon who has to watch the dragon's face?

Jiangyin Prefecture.

At this moment, Huang Yaoshi changed into clean and presentable clothes, as if he were in a dream and had not yet woken up.

In front of him.

A 'Frosty Core Vine', filled with a chilling aura, was placed quietly inside a jade box.

at the same time.

There is also a complete medical manual recording the methods to cultivate Qi Dao alchemy, as well as a secret manual for cultivating the Purple Mansion True Skill, which is also displayed in front.

And these.

Ji Xiu had forcibly taken them all from the 'pharmacy' for him.

Looking at Huang Yaoshi, he seemed to be incredulous.

Ji Xiu smiled gently:
"Old Huang, I haven't forgotten the medicinal bath you gave me to strengthen my muscles back then."

"You once promised me a loan of over a hundred taels of silver; today I promise you a house full of gold. What do you say?"

Moving the position of the pharmacy owner would be too big a move, involving too many issues, and Huang Yaoshi's foundation was too shallow, so it was naturally difficult for him to do so.

Furthermore, both the Jiang family of Qishan and the branch temple of the "Dacheng Wuxiang Temple" of the state have some connection with the medicine business. One is a powerful family and the other is the main lineage of the state. Unless necessary, they should not force a conflict.

But as the saying goes, they ask for the sky, but negotiate the price when it comes down!
Taking this opportunity, we can give that old man a good beating and secure more than enough for Huang Yaoshi to obtain a Purple Mansion True Skill, a Cold Attribute Earth Treasure, and a Qi Dao Pill Scripture.

Not only that,

Ji Xiu also gave Huang Yaoshi the title of 'elder' from the pharmacy, and took 30% of the profits and power into his own pocket!
Using these as stepping stones, coupled with their own support.

This medicine will be available sooner or later.
They all have to change their surname to 'Huang'!

Upon hearing Ji Xiu's words, Huang Yaoshi's emotions surged, his lips moved, and after a long while, he simply lowered his head.

After a while, a ripple spread across the medicine bowl that Zheng Jun had offered.

"Having spent half his life away from home, the old man never imagined..."

"My luck in this life has come true."

Ji Xiu patted his shoulder lightly, smiled and let it go. He then instructed Zheng Jun to take good care of Huang Yaoshi before getting up and leaving.

The 'Grand Examination for Prefectural Officials' is just around the corner.

He also needs to refine the Three-Five Slaying Evil Gods more often to improve his 'Divine Soul Cultivation', and continue to comprehend the 'Human Immortal Primordial Embryo' with the Yellow Millet Dream, so as to win a place in the upcoming Grand Trial!
Thus, his brilliance was inscribed on the monument of the fledgling dragon!

However, before that, as a condition for 'Huang Yaoshi' to obtain benefits.
Ji Xiu also had to attend the banquet of the young master of the Qishan Jiang clan. He had heard that this refined young master from the main branch of the "powerful family" was...
You need to personally negotiate a 'cooperation' with yourself.

(P.S.: I'm a eunuch, I don't even have a penis anymore, but I fucking have to finish this book, I have to be responsible to the readers and to myself!)
(I really won't abandon this project. I missed a couple of days of perfect attendance, but this time I really will finish it. I really can't abandon it. I really want to finish it. Please stop criticizing me. I will update regularly every day!)

(End of this chapter)