Starting with a daily divination to build an immortal clan

Chapter 203 The Underworld
Everyone was stunned by what they saw.

"Senior Brother Chu, what is this strange phenomenon...?"

Behind Chu Yuanfeng, Wu Yang, with his handsome face, stared blankly at the strange phenomenon on Luoxia Mountain in the distance, muttering to himself.

Chu Yuanfeng stared blankly at the lotus flowers swaying in the air, somewhat unsure, and asked, "Could this be the strange phenomenon that occurs when a cultivator achieves the Golden Core Dao?"

Unlike the others, Shen Wen'an's attention was entirely focused on the slowly falling golden raindrops.

He could vaguely sense an immortal divine aura contained within those raindrops.

"Is that... the metal element that Senior Sister Ling Shan mentioned?" Shen Wen'an suddenly frowned as he looked around the rest of Luoxia Mountain.

As the Sword Immortal Ling Shan once said, the immortal golden nature contained within a cultivator's Golden Core is an existence that disrupts the balance.

The Great Dao is impartial; there are those in the underworld who will prevent cultivators from breaking through to the Golden Core stage and obtaining the Golden Nature.

His purpose in coming here was to see if there were any underworld figures around Luoxia Mountain.

However, the surrounding peaks of Luoxia Mountain were filled with ancient trees, and Shen Wen'an did not find anything strange in sight.

With a slight thought, he immediately released his divine sense.

"Brother Shen, you mustn't!"

Sensing a faint fluctuation of divine consciousness emanating from Shen Wen'an, Chu Yuanfeng was horrified and quickly tried to stop him!
Shen Wen'an was slightly taken aback upon hearing this.

Just as he was about to ask a question, the released divine sense suddenly discovered something incredible!
More than ten miles away from the mountain where the five people were, a strange figure stood quietly in the void!

The figure had his back to the five people, his hands behind his back, wearing a black fitted robe and a crown, and exuding a terrifyingly cold aura!

Sensing Shen Wen'an's divine sense sweeping over, the figure merely glanced sideways.

The next moment, a terrifying chain suddenly appeared from the void beside them, heading straight for the mountain peak where the five people were!

In an instant, Shen Wen'an felt his body and soul locked by a strange force, and he couldn't even muster the slightest strength to resist the oncoming chains.

The Underworld!

Upon seeing this scene, this thought instantly popped into his mind.

At the same time, a sense of annoyance arose.

Curiosity really does kill people.

As the dark chains were about to pierce his body, Shen Wen'an closed his eyes, awaiting death.

Suddenly, the natal flying sword in his dantian trembled violently, breaking free from the strange power that bound his entire body, and flew out of his dantian!

Facing the oncoming jet-black chains, it burst forth with dazzling golden light!

This happened so fast that Chu Yuanfeng and the others beside him hadn't even had time to react before their bodies were engulfed by golden light.

Clang!
The golden light blinded everyone, and they could only hear a dull thud coming from the void ahead!
The next moment, the golden light dissipated, and the dark chains also disappeared.

The strange power that had imprisoned him vanished suddenly, as if it had never existed.

Shen Wen'an glanced at the void with a puzzled look, and then suddenly felt a sense of weakness.

Feeling what he was about to do, he quickly focused his consciousness into his dantian.

The sword embryo, which had been shining brightly in the dantian, was now dim, and two fine cracks appeared on the three-inch sword blade.

The sword embryo of a sword cultivator is the same as the immortal embryo of an immortal cultivator; it is the condensation of one's cultivation.

Now that the sword embryo's light has dimmed and cracks have appeared in its body, Shen Wen'an can clearly feel that his strength has been greatly affected.

The most obvious feeling is that the sword energy that used to flow freely in my body is now not so smooth.

Upon closer inspection, he also discovered that a wisp of eerie black energy, as thin as a hair, clung to the three-inch Dragon Soul Sword.

Shen Wen'an tried to separate the black energy from the sword embryo with his divine sense, but he found that it seemed to have taken root in his sword embryo. No matter what methods he used, he could not get rid of it.

"Brother Shen?"

Outside, Chu Yuanfeng's voice came, and Shen Wen'an could only let his consciousness return to his body.

Upon seeing him awake, Chu Yuanfeng asked with a grave expression, "Brother Shen, are you alright?"

Shen Wen'an shook his head slightly, not telling the others about the damage to his sword embryo.

Upon seeing this, Chu Yuanfeng became wary and looked around with a serious expression.

Although he hadn't spotted the figure of the underworld being, he clearly saw a black chain emanating an eerie aura appear in the void and attack Shen Wen'an.

Then, a dazzling golden light burst forth from Shen Wen'an's body, so bright that the others couldn't open their eyes.

After a dull thud, all the strange phenomena disappeared.

This happened extremely quickly; from the appearance of the dark chains to the return to normal, it took less than a breath.

Chu Yuanfeng was unaware of the existence of the Underworld.

However, when Ling Shan, the Sword Immortal, broke through to the Sword Immortal realm, they were all instructed that when observing a cultivator achieving the Golden Core Dao, they must not release their divine sense, otherwise they would get into big trouble.

Seeing that Shen Wen'an had only just released his divine sense when he was attacked in such a bizarre way, Chu Yuanfeng and the others felt somewhat apprehensive.

They never saw the enemy's presence, nor did they know what attacked Shen Wen'an.

"Senior brother, look!"

Just as the group was stunned, the young man with phoenix eyes suddenly pointed to the distant Sunset Mountain and exclaimed.

Chu Yuanfeng and the others quickly looked towards the direction of Luoxia Mountain, and saw that in the void where the countless blue lotuses were, one by one the blue lotuses began to wither and dissipate, eventually turning into a wisp of faint golden light that converged towards a certain place.

In just a few breaths, the countless blue lotuses had completely disappeared, leaving only a single drop of mysterious golden water suspended in the void.

After absorbing the golden light transformed from the blue lotus, the golden droplet exuded an eternal and immortal charm as it slowly descended towards Mount Luoxia.

"Oops!"

But then he saw the golden water droplets fall towards the gate of Luoxia Mountain, and Chu Yuanfeng was suddenly startled, muttering in surprise.

Shen Wen'an looked at him, puzzled.

Although he did not know the specific process of a cultivator breaking through to the Golden Core stage, the current situation seemed to prove that Jiang Xiuqi in Luoxia Mountain was about to successfully break through and embark on the path to the Golden Core stage.

Chu Yuanfeng said in a deep voice, "When Senior Sister Lingshan broke through to the Sword Immortal realm, it was I and several senior brothers who served her."

"When my senior sister became a sword immortal, the surrounding area..."

Before he could finish speaking, another strange phenomenon suddenly appeared on the distant Sunset Mountain!
Suddenly, the protective array that covered the entire Luoxia Mountain began to tremble violently.

In just a few breaths, the entire mountain-protecting formation vanished with a roar!
All the spiritual energy points formed by the great array's light barrier were sucked into a cave somewhere in Luoxia Mountain by a terrifying suction force.

Moreover, the group also clearly felt the mountain beneath their feet tremble slightly.

Visibly, the ancient trees and vegetation within a radius of hundreds of miles centered on the gate of Luoxia Mountain all seemed to have been drained of their vitality, slowly withering and decaying!

In the span of a dozen breaths, the once ancient and beautiful Luoxia Mountain was transformed into a barren mountain.

The trees have withered and life has been lost.

"Ugh!"

Upon seeing this, Chu Yuanfeng couldn't help but let out a heavy sigh.

"I had forgotten about this matter and didn't have time to remind the fellow Daoists of Luoxia Mountain."

"This once auspicious place has now been completely ruined."

Shen Wen'an and the others looked around in astonishment.

"Senior brother, this...this!"

Wu Yang looked around in disbelief, finding it hard to imagine that just over ten breaths ago, this place was a blessed land capable of supporting an entire immortal sect.

"The earth's energy and the vitality of all things here have been absorbed by that senior from Luoxia Mountain."

"It will be impossible to return to normal in less than several hundred years."

Upon hearing this, the group was somewhat speechless.

A cultivator broke through to the Golden Core stage and instantly absorbed all the earth's energy and the vitality of plants within a radius of hundreds of miles.

This is too overbearing!

While Shen Wen'an was surprised, he quietly looked in the direction of the Luoxia Mountain Sect.

The black-robed figure he just saw was most likely from the Underworld, which proves that Jiang Xiuqi's breakthrough to the Golden Core stage has already caught the attention of the Underworld.

But now... Jiang Xiuqi has devoured the earth's vein energy and the vitality of all things within a radius of hundreds of miles to forge the Golden Core, so why are there no signs of the people of the Underworld making a move?

Did they leave?

Despite his suspicions, Shen Wen'an dared not release his divine sense to investigate further.

The previous attack had already damaged its sword core; if the opponent hadn't left, another attack would have been launched.

His natal sword embryo will likely be difficult to withstand.

The group waited on the mountain peak for a short while before a streak of light flew in from the Luoxia Mountain sect.

"Junior brother, it's been a long time."

The person who arrived was Wei Qiuling.

She landed on the peak where the five people were, and looked at Shen Wen'an with a smile.

The two were Daoist partners, their souls intertwined and they cultivated together. Naturally, they understood each other better and were closer than ordinary couples.

After more than two years apart, seeing each other again, Wei Qiuling suddenly felt a strange sensation in her heart.

It seemed to contain a mixture of three parts tension, three parts bitterness, three parts excitement, and a bit of inexplicable impulse.

This was the first time in all the years since they had been Daoist partners that she had felt such complicated emotions.

Shen Wen'an nodded gently, and then introduced, "Brother Chu, fellow disciples, this is Wei Qiuling, the chief disciple of Luoxia Mountain and my Daoist partner."

"Senior sister, these are all disciples of the Azure Vine Sword Pavilion. This is Brother Chu Yuanfeng..."

After Shen Wen'an introduced them, the group exchanged greetings and pleasantries.

"Fellow Daoist Wei, that senior from Luoxia Mountain... has he successfully broken through?"

Chu Yuanfeng asked.

Wu Yang and the others looked over with expectant expressions.

Wei Qiuling nodded slightly: "Many thanks to Qingluo Sword Pavilion and the other fellow Daoists for their help. My master has already successfully broken through."

"This is not the place to talk, Wen'an. Please come with me to Luoxia Mountain for a gathering."

Upon hearing this, Chu Yuanfeng smiled and waved his hand, saying, "Since that senior has successfully broken through, our mission can be considered complete."

"I will return to my sect now and report back. I will visit again when I have time."

Luoxia Mountain has now produced a Golden Core Realm expert, so it can barely be considered a true ally of Qingluo Sword Pavilion.

Wei Qiuling nodded and said, "Very well, my Luoxia Mountain has suffered a setback due to my master's breakthrough, and it is now in a terrible state."

"Once everything is properly arranged, Luoxia Mountain will formally invite all fellow Daoists to come and visit."

Chu Yuanfeng cupped his hands in greeting and smiled, "In that case, Brother Shen, will you stay, or..."

Shen Wen'an glanced at Wei Qiuling beside him, then cupped his hands in greeting to Chu Yuanfeng: "Please trouble Brother Chu to go back and tell Senior Sister Lingshan that I will visit her after I finish dealing with things here."

Chu Yuanfeng nodded.

"In that case, I'll take my leave."

After bowing, the four transformed into four streaks of light and flew away into the distance.

As soon as the four figures disappeared, Wei Qiuling said softly, "Let's go, Master wants to see you."

The two figures flashed and headed towards the Luoxia Mountain sect.

……

Blackwater Pool Manor.

Shen Wenxing took a sip of tea, slowly put down his teacup, and looked at Shen Chongming opposite him, saying:

"Now that the Chen and Shi families have been dealt with, we still need to select two affiliated families to fill the vacancies."

“Xingyang City is still being managed by you, Uncle Zhao.”

“Your Uncle Zhao is getting old, we can’t let him worry too much.”

Shen Chongming nodded and smiled, "Father can arrange this as he sees fit."

"Hmm?" Shen Wenxing asked, somewhat puzzled, "Aren't you the one handling all the family matters now?"

"Besides, your father's judgment is also poor."

"Your father picked the Chen and Shi families back then, and it almost led to a huge mistake."

"You choose this time."

Shen Wenxing picked up the teacup in front of him and took a leisurely sip, feeling quite content.

He suddenly realized why the old man hadn't even listened to anything about the family when he passed the position of head of the family to him.

Once those troublesome things are taken away, there's no desire to bring them up again.

Although my son is more aggressive and ruthless in handling things than I am, he is also quite capable and I don't have to worry about him at all.

As a result, he was even less inclined to interfere further.

I believe the Shen family will have a better future under his leadership.

Shen Chongming could see that his father was already thinking of becoming a hands-off manager, so he chuckled and said, "You Ran is about to give birth, and I will soon reach the perfect Qi Refining stage."

"I will need to go into seclusion to break through to the next level. Even if Father wants to be a hands-off manager, shouldn't we at least wait until I break through to the embryonic breathing stage?"

After pondering for a moment, Shen Wenxing could only reluctantly agree.

"Then it's settled. Once you break through to the Nascent Soul stage, I will pass the position of head of this family directly to you."

"In the remaining days, your father will be able to urge your mother to cultivate diligently."

"The Hundred Refinement Valley recently sent over a batch of standard armor and weapons. Now that I have some free time, I can also build a group of cultivator clan soldiers for the family."

Shen Chongming nodded, then stood up and cupped his hands, saying, "Let's go to the academy now. Chongxuan told me a few days ago that he had something to discuss with you."

Shen Wenxing waved his hand: "Go ahead."

……

When Shen Chongming arrived at the academy at the foot of the mountain, he found Lu Zhiyuan and Shen Chongxuan discussing something in the pavilion.

Upon his arrival, the two bowed and greeted him.

After returning the greeting, Shen Chongming sat down and said, "I just overheard you and Chongxuan discussing swordsmanship. I wonder..."

Shen Chongxuan glanced at Lu Zhiyuan, then cupped his hands and said, "Brother, Chongxuan believes that it is too simplistic for literary cultivators to rely solely on literary energy."

"But the Master said that one must specialize in a skill before one can become proficient."

Lu Zhiyuan picked up the conversation, saying, "The literary spirit is flourishing today, and the strength of literary cultivators is also constantly increasing."

"I have comprehended the legacy left by Anu and am now trying to create some techniques and moves suitable for cultivators of the literary path."

He paused for a moment and continued, "The literary weapon I used that day was one that allowed literary cultivators to use without relying on their natal character."

"In addition, the literary courage tremor and other techniques that Anu created before, plus my continuous comprehension, should be sufficient for literary cultivators to use."

As soon as he finished speaking, Shen Chongxuan cupped his hands and said, "What you said is too one-sided."

“Before you and Father established the literary tradition, gentlemen, in addition to reading books, also cultivated the Six Arts.”

"Chongxuan only thought that in addition to cultivating literary mind, literary cultivators should also cultivate swordsmanship, so that they would have more ways to deal with enemies."

“If we, as cultivators of the literary path, rely solely on our literary energy, we are very likely to encounter obstacles everywhere in the future when we face special circumstances, and become useless scholars.”

Lu Zhiyuan looked thoughtful upon hearing this.

Shen Chongxuan continued, "Immortal cultivators also need to cultivate various arts of immortality as supplementary skills, and literary cultivators should not narrow their path."

After saying this, he looked at Shen Chongming, his eyes revealing that he wanted Shen Chongming to help persuade the other party.

After a moment's thought, Shen Chongming also felt that Shen Chongxuan's vision was far-sighted enough.

The current literary arts are still in their infancy, and their attack methods have not yet been figured out by other cultivators. Using them against enemies should be surprisingly effective.

However, as more and more cultivators of the literary path emerge and make their mark in the cultivation world, their methods will inevitably be thoroughly studied and understood.

Learning another sword technique would indeed be beneficial in combat.

"Is the Master worried that scholars practicing swordsmanship will affect their literary cultivation?"

Lu Zhiyuan nodded slightly.

He always believed that one should specialize in one area in spiritual practice in order to go further.

Being distracted by other things can easily lead to a situation where one is good at many things but not at anything.

Upon seeing this, Shen Chongming smiled faintly and said, "Although I do not practice literature, I have often heard Chongxuan mention the cultivation of literary talent."

"Swordsmanship is an unorthodox practice, which aims to toughen the mind and temper the will."

“For a cultivator of the literary path, practicing swordsmanship might even promote the cohesion of literary spirit.”

As soon as he finished speaking, Shen Chongxuan took over the topic at the right time: "In recent years, Chongxuan has often asked Third Uncle for advice on swordsmanship, and I feel that it has been of great help to the concentration of literary talent."

Listening to the two brothers' back-and-forth persuasion, Lu Zhiyuan suddenly smiled.

"So be it, let swordsmanship be swordsmanship."

"However, innovation in literature, art, and techniques should not be neglected."

He looked at Shen Chongxuan with a solemn expression:

"As you just said, the path of literature cannot be narrowed."

"Your father and I founded the literary path together, and now the literary path is like a fledgling eagle eagerly awaiting its mother."

"It requires continuous innovation and improvement from those who come after."

"If I were to be distracted by other matters and let my path of learning come to an end here, I would always feel guilty."

Upon hearing this, Shen Chongxuan's expression darkened.

He also knew that his father had prioritized the pursuit of Tao over family ties, leaving behind a legacy of criticism and regret.

If we cannot promote the literary path this time and it is reduced to a minor one, it would truly be a disservice to my father's hard work.

"Rest assured, Master, Chongxuan and the literary cultivators of later generations will never let your and Father's efforts go to waste."

Lu Zhiyuan smiled, nodded, and stood up, saying, "In that case, you two brothers can chat for a while. I'll take my leave."

The two men rose, returned the greeting with clasped hands, and watched Lu Zhiyuan leave.

"Brother, is the teacher angry?"

Shen Chongxuan spoke in a deep voice.

"It's not so much that I'm angry."

He gestured for him to sit down and continued, "Brother Xuan, do you know that when your second uncle was young, he and the Master left Anyang City for a long journey?"

Shen Chongxuan paused slightly, then shook his head: "I only heard my mother mention it before she passed away, but I don't know the specific details."

Shen Chongming said slowly with a deep expression, "It is said that back then, the Master took my second uncle to Tianzhang City in Lincang County."

"Before the arrival of the Immortal Sect, Lincang was located in the Central Plains, with a profound cultural heritage, and was a sacred place in the hearts of scholars and literati."

"Among these, Tianzhang City is the best."

"My second uncle and his teacher debated with scholars from all over the country in Tianzhang City, but they were ambushed by a Confucian family in Tianzhang City and arrested in Zhili Imperial City on charges of disobedience."

Shen Chongxuan listened intently, and secretly resolved to include this part of history in his father's biography later.

"In his early years, Master had the kindness of imparting knowledge and teaching to the Emperor of Yu. The Emperor then arranged a debate in the court, where Master debated with the great Confucian scholars of the time." At this point, Shen Chongming slowly stood up, gazing at the sky outside the pavilion, and continued, "At that time, Master wanted to vigorously promote new learning, but he overlooked something very essential. Do you know what it is?"

Shen Chongxuan shook his head slightly.

He had never heard of the beginning or the details of the incident, nor had he experienced it himself, so he naturally wouldn't know.

"Change needs a catalyst. Hasty and drastic changes may damage the foundation of the business, and even if the change succeeds, it may be too late to reverse the damage."

Shen Chongxuan was slightly taken aback, then nodded involuntarily.

"However, speaking of this matter, I must tell you about Qiyun Valley."

Shen Chongming suddenly changed the subject, turned to look at him and smiled, "The situation in Qiyun Valley is that it has been a long-standing problem, a chronic disease that is difficult to cure."

"At this very moment, they desperately need to cut away the flesh to stop the decay."

At this point, Shen Chongming chuckled and shook his head: "It's just that Qiyun Valley doesn't have the guts... It deserves to fall into depravity."

Shen Chongxuan stared blankly at his elder brother, who was walking away with his hands behind his back, not quite understanding what he meant by those words.

……

Western wilderness.

After leaving Frost Moon Mountain, Mu Chang and He Chongyi headed to the second scenic wonder.

However, the two encountered something unbelievable on their journey.

The scorched earth emitted billowing heat, and the surrounding air seemed distorted.

The two hid behind a weathered boulder, gazing intently at the many figures beneath a withered tree in the distance.

"Elder Mu, are those really all members of the Muhe tribe?"

He lowered his voice and asked.

Mu Chang stared intently at the group of people, nodded slightly and said, "Judging from their clothing, they are indeed all members of my Muhe tribe, but... but why would they leave the pastures and water sources they depend on for survival and bring their families to this desolate and scorching Flame Lake Hill?"

After descending from Frostmoon Mountain, the two prepared to head to Flame Lake Ridge.

Halfway there, Mu Chang suddenly discovered a headless, mummified corpse.

Based on the clothing of the corpse, Mu Chang determined that it was a woman from the Muhe tribe.

With this discovery, the two searched the surrounding area, following some clues and finally discovering the scene before them.

In the distance, thousands of people dressed in the attire of the Muhe tribe gathered around the withered tree, standing there motionless.

"Elder Mu, the scorching ground here is something that ordinary mortals cannot endure."

"Many of them were barefoot, seemingly oblivious to the scorching ground..."

He Chongyi's expression was filled with deep doubt.

Mu Chang nodded.

He noticed these things, which is why he didn't rush over to acknowledge them.

Clenching his fist, Mu Chang said in a deep voice, "Young Master, we cannot rush over there. Let's wait a little longer."

The two endured the intense heat and continued to squat for about fifteen minutes when they suddenly saw several cultivators riding the wind in the distance!

Each of the cultivators was carrying two struggling figures in their hands.

"It's Wu Yi and those soldiers!"

He Chongyi noticed that one of the black-robed cultivators was carrying Wu Yi, whose cultivation level had reached the fifth level of Qi Refining, while the others were carrying barbarian soldiers who had come with Wu Yi. His expression instantly became solemn.

After the black-robed cultivators finished their spells and landed, they threw Wu Yi and the others on the ground.

It seemed that Wu Yi and the others had their powers sealed by some kind of secret method.

They could only struggle helplessly.

One of the figures in black robes glanced down at Wu Yi and the others, nodded with apparent satisfaction, and then suddenly waved his sleeve at the struggling group.

A surge of purplish-black spiritual energy flew out from the man's sleeve, instantly imprisoning Wu Yi and the others!

Then, the man bent down and forced a scarlet pill into the mouths of Wu Yi and the others.

As the medicine slowly took effect, Wu Yi and the others widened their eyes, their veins bulging on their faces, showing extreme pain.

However, their entire bodies were bound by the previous purplish-black spiritual energy, so they couldn't even groan.

A few breaths later, strange bluish-black patterns appeared on the faces of Wu Yi and the others, and the life force in their bodies slowly dissipated.

As the bluish-black lines rapidly rose to the position of the eyes, the life force of Wu Yi and the others completely dissipated, turning them into corpses with wide-open eyes and faces full of pain.

But less than a breath after they were completely dead, their bodies suddenly twitched again!
Click!

Click!

As the corpses trembled, a sickening grinding sound of bones grinding came from within their bodies.

bass!
Amidst the soft "clicking" sounds, Wu, whose cultivation had reached the fifth level of Qi Refining, suddenly stood up straight.

After stretching his somewhat stiff body, he stood respectfully to the side, just like the other members of the Muhe tribe.

A few more breaths passed, and the corpses of the barbarian soldiers next to them gradually stood up.

This bizarre scene filled Mu Chang and He Chongyi, who were watching from afar, with great alarm.

Although the two dared not use their divine senses to investigate.

However, it is clear to the naked eye that Wu Yi and his companions have now become as strange as the people of the Muhe tribe.

"Manipulating corpses...is this witchcraft!?"

Mu Chang's pupils contracted slightly, and he murmured solemnly.

"A distant legend has been passed down in the Muhe tribe."

"Legend has it that in ancient times there was a group of extremely noble and special beings in the grasslands."

“These beings, the males are called shamans, and the females are called witches.”

"Whether they are shamans or sorcerers, they all possess the ability to communicate with the gods, claiming to be servants of the gods and conveying their will."

"The gods bestowed upon them the divine power to bring the dead back to life and to bless the living, earning them the deep respect and fear of all the tribes of the grasslands."

Upon hearing this, He Chongyi frowned deeply.

Are witchcraft and witch cultivation the same thing?
Shen Li is now a sorcerer. Are these people also a group of sorcerers?
Under their watchful eyes, the mysterious black-robed figures in the distance moved once more.

They each cast a spell, controlling the thousands of men, women, and children of the Muhe tribe surrounding the withered tree to walk away into the distance.

Wu Yi and the others were also among them.

These people moved very stiffly and strangely, but their speed was by no means slow.

"Are they also going to Flame Lake Ridge?"

Upon seeing the direction the men in black robes were heading, He Chongyi suddenly frowned.

Mu Chang narrowed his eyes slightly, suppressing his anger, and said in a deep voice, "Young Master, let's follow them and see what's going on."

He Chongyi nodded, and the two immediately concealed their presence, quietly following behind the main group.

……

Luoxia Mountain.

The once blessed land of immortals has now become completely desolate.

The ancient trees in the mountains withered, the earth cracked, the spiritual springs dried up, and many spiritual fruits and medicines painstakingly cultivated by the ancestors of Luoxia Mountain were lost.

The main hall of the sect.

Many peak masters and sect elders of Luoxia Mountain gathered together.

Despite suffering such a significant loss, the leaders of Luoxia Mountain showed no signs of dejection; instead, they all wore smiles and chatted happily.

This was all because Jiang Xiuqi had successfully broken through to the Golden Core Realm and become a true Golden Core cultivator.

As for the mountain gate, blessed land, and those spiritual springs and fruits, once they're gone, they're gone.

Once Jiang Xiuqi has stabilized his cultivation level, then we can go and seize another place.

At the head of the sect's main hall, Yue Zhiyi sat on the sect leader's throne, with Wei Qiuling and Shen Wen'an standing beside her.

None of the peak masters and elders of Luoxia Mountain felt there was anything wrong with this.

Wei Qiuling is the next sect leader of Luoxia Mountain. Whether Shen Wen'an is a genius sword cultivator or her Daoist partner, he is qualified to stand in that position.

"Alright, everyone, please be quiet."

As soon as Yue Zhiyi spoke, the group of high-ranking officials from Luoxia Mountain who had been whispering below fell silent and looked at her.

"Now that Uncle Jiang has achieved the Golden Core Dao, my Luoxia Mountain has also become a Golden Core Immortal Sect. Although we cannot yet compare with the three upper sects, we are no longer comparable to each other."

"Please take careful notes of what I am about to say."

After a slight pause, Yue Zhiyi continued, "The most important task at hand is to choose a new blessed land to settle the disciples."

"Don't think about seizing it from other forces yet; just choose a place to use as a temporary measure."

"Junior Brother Miao, please take charge of this matter."

He looked down at a shrewd-looking middle-aged man with a mustache and spoke.

The middle-aged man slowly stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, "I will obey the sect leader's orders."

After nodding, Yue Zhiyi continued, "Once the blessed land is chosen, we should prepare a Golden Core Dharma Assembly as soon as possible and invite some forces and immortal sects from Danzhou to participate, so that they know that my Luoxia Mountain now has a Golden Core expert in charge."

This is very important.

With the mountain gate of Luoxia Mountain now destroyed and its protective array lost, spreading the news is meant to deter those with ill intentions and provide a safeguard for the sect's disciples.

"This matter will be handled by Elder Luo."

Le Zhiyi looked down at Luo Yao.

Luo Yao stepped forward slowly and cupped her hands in greeting: "As the sect leader commands."

"There's one more thing." After a moment of thought, Yue Zhiyi looked at the figure with a cold face and a long sword on his back among the peak masters and said, "Junior Brother Tu, go to Tingfeng Valley later and tell them that Luoxia Mountain needs to know which aristocratic families or immortal sects were involved in besieging those Nascent Soul Realm cultivators outside the mountain gate some time ago, besides the rogue cultivators."

As she said this, a faint killing intent appeared on Le Zhiyi's body.

Some time ago, hundreds of cultivators at the Nascent Soul stage besieged Mount Luoxia. She had already roughly guessed that the mastermind behind the scenes must be very strong and well hidden.

Let alone the fact that Tingfeng Valley might not be able to find out, even if they did, they would never dare to say it.

For now, they can only settle for second best and vent their anger on other forces as a warning to others.

Among the hundreds of Nascent Soul Realm cultivators, there must be some members from aristocratic families and immortal sects mixed in.

Those wandering monks have no fixed abode and are difficult to deal with.

When facing rogue cultivators, immortal sects and aristocratic families usually only take action when they are absolutely certain of killing them.

Otherwise, if they were to escape, some of the Qi Refining disciples of Luoxia Mountain would never be able to leave the mountain again.

A cultivator at the Nascent Soul stage hiding in the shadows, specifically hunting down juniors who go out for training, is definitely a headache.

In comparison, the aristocratic immortal sects are different.

They mostly have fixed sects and residences. Once discovered, they can make thorough preparations and then use swift and decisive methods to wipe out all their disciples and clansmen!

The aloof man nodded upon hearing this and immediately turned to leave.

"Junior Brother Tu, please don't be too impulsive on this trip. Try your best to get the information without causing any conflict."

After thinking for a moment, Yue Zhiyi gave her some instructions.

Although Luoxia Mountain is currently guarded by a Golden Core cultivator, it is not advisable to make too many enemies with the surrounding forces.

Otherwise, if we offend some reclusive old folks, who knows if they will step in to help us?
The aloof man paused slightly, turned around, bowed slightly, and left the sect's main hall.

Afterwards, Yue Zhiyi made some arrangements and then asked everyone to disperse.

He slowly stood up and looked at Shen Wen'an, then suddenly frowned and asked, "Wen'an is injured?"

Shen Wen'an cupped his hands in greeting: "We encountered some unexpected problems, and the sword embryo was damaged."

Upon hearing this, Wei Qiuling immediately looked at him with concern and said:

"Who injured you?"

"How could it have damaged the sword embryo?"

Shen Wen'an forced a smile and said, "It's alright, it will recover after a period of rest."

The cracks on the sword's core were not too large, and repairing them would not be difficult.

Le Zhiyi glanced at him and said, "Qiu Ling, bring the Earth Spirit Pill later and give it to Wen An."

Earth Spirit Pill is a special elixir specifically designed for cultivators with immortal embryos.

Many years ago, when Shen Wen'an fought against four Nascent Soul cultivators from Hundred Beasts Mountain alone, rumors circulated that his physical body was shattered and his sword embryo was damaged.

Wei Qiuling then took the Earth Spirit Pill to the Shen family, intending to give it to him to help him recover from his injuries.

It just wasn't used at the time.

Wei Qiuling nodded and immediately left the sect's main hall to retrieve the pill from the treasury.

Seeing this, Yue Zhiyi shook her head slightly and sighed, thinking to herself:

"This girl... has really fallen in love."

"I don't know whether it's a blessing or a curse."

Cultivation partners, whose souls intertwine and cultivate together, are ultimately a pure cultivation companion, somewhat different from ordinary couples in the secular world.

Wei Qiuling's current behavior is enough to prove that she has developed genuine feelings for Shen Wen'an.

Le Zhiyi was also very conflicted about this matter.

The most taboo things for cultivators are the five poisons and seven emotions. These things will become the most fatal inner demons when they break through in the future or face some tribulations.

But now that the two are already Daoist partners, she has no way to persuade them and can only let nature take its course.

Wei Qiuling quickly retrieved the Earth Spirit Pill.

"Wen'an, take this pill first."

Wei Qiuling handed over the jade box and spoke.

Shen Wen'an hesitated for a moment, but did not refuse, and swallowed the pills in the jade box.

The medicinal power of the Earth Spirit Pill dissolved in his mouth and slowly flowed into his dantian, beginning to repair the damaged sword embryo.

What he didn't expect was that the eerie black energy rooted in the sword embryo also emerged at this moment, trying to snatch some of the medicinal power of the Earth Spirit Pill from the sword embryo.

Shen Wen'an's heart sank, and he immediately focused his mind to forcefully stop the strange black aura.

He was fast enough, but the potency of the Earth Spirit Pill was still partially stolen by the eerie black energy.

After absorbing some of the medicinal power of the Earth Spirit Pill, the eerie black energy did not change much; it remained firmly embedded in the sword embryo, no longer moving around.

While Shen Wen'an was circulating the medicinal power of the Earth Spirit Pill through the "Tai Xuan Sword Scripture" to repair the sword embryo, he also kept a close eye on the strange black aura to prevent it from suddenly erupting and causing trouble again.

An hour passed quickly.

With the help of the Earth Spirit Pill, the two cracks on its sword embryo became noticeably smaller.

It can be fully restored with some time and effort later.

"how?"

Upon seeing Shen Wen'an wake up, Wei Qiuling asked with concern.

Shen Wen'an nodded slightly: "Much better. With a few more months of careful refinement, it will be able to fully recover."

Upon hearing this, Wei Qiuling's face showed a relieved expression.

Seeing this, Yue Zhiyi shook her head again and laughed, "Alright, you two stop being so lovey-dovey in front of me, go out for a stroll."

Wei Qiuling blushed and quickly said, "Master..."

"Go."

Le Zhiyi smiled faintly and spoke.

The two exchanged a glance, then bowed and left the sect's main hall.

"It's been a while since I've been back to Yangnao. How is everyone at home?"

Wei Qiuling spoke softly in the long corridor outside the sect's main hall.

For more than two years, she first received a notice that someone was plotting against Luoxia Mountain, so she hurriedly left the Shen family and rushed to Yunzhong County to take charge, fearing that Yunzhong County City would be attacked again.

Then another problem arose at the sect, so she and Luo Yao, along with other disciples in Yangnao Land, hurriedly returned.

More than two years have passed in the blink of an eye.

"Everything is fine. Big Brother has successfully broken through to the third realm of body cultivation."

"Judging by the time, the children of Chongming and Chonghong should be born soon."

"Oh?" Wei Qiuling's face showed a strange expression upon hearing this.

"What about Chongming Island..."

“It was him and You Ran,” Shen Wen’an replied.

“Chonghong is going to be a father too.” Wei Qiuling murmured to herself, then added, “With my brother’s breakthrough, the Shen family’s strength will surely increase again.”

"By the way, was it because of Father that Chongming asked me to inquire about innate spiritual energy?"

Shen Wen'an pondered for a moment.

"Mu Chang and Mu Yan have both reached the Qi Refining Perfection stage. Both of them have Earth Spiritual Roots. I wonder if it's because of them."

"Father's words..."

The thought that his father had no spiritual root and that it would be extremely difficult for him to break through to the embryonic breathing stage made Shen Wen'an very worried.

Gathering five innate spiritual energies of the same grade is much more difficult than finding a single wisp of high-grade innate spiritual energy.

Noticing his expression, Wei Qiuling's beautiful eyes flickered, and after making a decision in her heart, she smiled faintly and said, "Don't worry about the innate spiritual energy."

"I can't guarantee a mid-grade one, but I still have a chance to gather five low-grade innate spiritual energies of the five elements."

Shen Wen'an nodded.

The two walked side by side for a while, and then Wei Qiuling spoke again: "Once things have settled down here, let's go back to Yangnao together?"

Shen Wen'an was stunned upon hearing this.

The two were Daoist partners, their souls intertwined, so he must have known Wei Qiuling quite well.

But now it seems that Wei Qiuling has changed.

"Can't you?"

Seeing him staring blankly at her, Wei Qiuling felt a little flustered and asked.

Shen Wen'an nodded with a slight smile and said, "Then I'll go and tell Senior Sister Ling Shan later."

When Chu Yuanfeng and his companions left, he asked them to pass on a message to Sword Immortal Ling Shan, saying that they would visit her later.

If you're going to stay at Luoxia Mountain these days, you should let them know in advance.

Wei Qiuling nodded slightly.

"it is good."

"You go first, I'll tidy up the house for you."

(End of this chapter)