Starting with a daily divination to build an immortal clan

Chapter 224 Opening up territories

Huang Lingshan's words puzzled Shen Wen'an.

"Senior sister, what is this 'Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique'?"

Judging from the name alone, this mysterious metal block seems to contain a cultivation method.

However, Huang Lingshan previously stated that the Divine Fire Pit ruins were a place where a group of magical artifact refiners from the Immortal Dynasty of Danzhou stored their magical artifacts.

Could it be some kind of weapon-refining technique?

After a moment's thought, Huang Lingshan said, "You just need to know that this is a good thing, and it will benefit both me and your Shen family in the future."

"Come on, I'll take you somewhere."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wen'an's expression turned somewhat strange, but he did not press further and silently followed her as she flew into the distance.

……

Yunshui City.

Xu Zhan stood respectfully in front of Shen Wenxing, holding a brand new book in his hands.

"Master, this is something I've come to understand from my own mind. It seems to be a cultivation technique. Please take a look."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wenxing looked somewhat surprised.

Looking at the handsome young man before him, he smiled and said, "This is your personal opportunity; you don't need to offer it to your master."

Shen Wenxing roughly understood that this so-called cultivation technique was probably left behind by the strange event that occurred on the cliff behind the mountain some time ago.

All indications suggest that Xu Zhan is indeed closely connected to what exists at the bottom of the Laishui River.

Therefore, this technique is more likely to be a legacy that is only suitable for his own use.

Xu Zhan shook his head slightly, his expression solemn, and said, "Please, Master, accept this."

"This is a token of my disciple's affection."

He paused slightly, then continued, "Before I became your disciple, my parents and I were protected by the Shen family and were able to survive until now."

"Now that I have become your disciple, you have taken good care of me."

"Master, please forgive me. Actually... I had my own selfish reasons for doing this."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wenxing revealed a half-smile on his face and said, "What are your ulterior motives? Tell me."

Xu Zhan respectfully placed the book on the tea table in front of Shen Wenxing, took two steps back, bowed and cupped his hands, saying, "In the present Yangnao land, foreign enemies are as fierce as wolves and tigers. Only the Shen family is strong enough to protect my family and the people under its rule."

“When I was young, I heard a saying from my teacher at the academy.”

"When the nest is overturned, no egg remains intact. I offer this technique to my master in order to enhance the strength of the Shen family and protect my family."

After saying this, Xu Zhan glanced nervously at Shen Wenxing.

"Ha ha……"

Shen Wenxing pondered for a moment, then suddenly smiled, looking at him with a hint of appreciation in his eyes and nodding, saying, "What a fine saying, 'When the nest is overturned, no egg remains unbroken.'"

"However... are you so certain that this method can greatly enhance the Shen family's strength?"

Xu Zhan nodded confidently and said, "Master, let's take a look first."

After nodding, Shen Wenxing picked up the book on the coffee table and opened to the first page.

The title page of the book prominently displays the words "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique".

"Did you name this cultivation technique yourself?"

Xu Zhan shook his head slightly.

Upon seeing this, Shen Wenxing continued to flip through the pages.

At first, he didn't care much, after all, he already had a preconceived notion that this thing was a legacy tailor-made for Xu Zhan.

Cultivate your body's Qi and blood, achieving ultimate strength and Yang.

When Xu Zhan encountered an anomaly on the cliff behind the mountain some time ago, he displayed an extremely yin and cold power, which was not suitable for body cultivation.

But after watching this so-called "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique," a sense of amazement suddenly arose in his heart.

Having reached the peak of the third realm of body cultivation, Shen Wenxing was naturally able to easily see the profoundness of this technique.

By tempering the body with malevolent energy, one can skillfully fuse one's own blood and qi with the malevolent energy gained from killing, and when it suddenly erupts, it can greatly enhance one's strength.

Although the book also mentions the side effects of the "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique," the large amount of fiendish energy entering the body can easily affect a cultivator's mind if it gets out of control.

But which of those body cultivators who can reach a high level is not a person with a firm will?
If we treat this "Nine Fiends Body Gathering Technique" as a follow-up technique to "Azure Dragon Strength," and let the body cultivators under the Shen family reach the second realm before attempting to cultivate it.

With a resilient mindset as a foundation, one might be able to offset the side effects of the "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique".

Slowly closing the book in his hands, Shen Wenxing's expression turned solemn. After pondering for a long time, he asked, "Have you already begun cultivating this 'Nine Fiends Body Gathering Technique'?"

Xu Zhan shook his head slightly: "Master has not spoken, so I dare not cultivate on my own."

"However... I feel that the side effects of practicing this method are not as serious as described in the book."

Shen Wenxing slowly stood up, paced back and forth for a moment, and said, "It's hard to say about this matter."

"The evil energy is the foul air between heaven and earth. People with weak minds are easily affected and must be careful."

"You should focus on cultivating the Azure Dragon Force these days. Do not attempt the Nine Fiends Body Gathering Technique without my permission."

Xu Zhan's cultivation has reached the peak of the second realm. Although it was due to a special opportunity, to reach this level at the age of ten or so means that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, his future achievements will definitely surpass mine.

He is also his only disciple to date, so naturally he doesn't want to see him put himself in danger.

Sensing the concern in Shen Wenxing's words, Xu Zhan respectfully cupped his hands and said, "Disciple will remember Master's teachings."

Shen Wenxing nodded and said, "Go ahead. Take some time to help the masters at the martial arts school teach the disciples. In the future, you will gradually be in charge of the affairs of the martial arts school."

The number of body cultivators under his jurisdiction is increasing, and he usually manages them in his spare time.

Now that Xu Zhan has grown up and is my apprentice, I can gradually let him handle this matter.

"Yes, Master."

Xu Zhan bowed and then withdrew.

Holding the "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique" in his hand, Shen Wenxing pondered for a long time before heading towards the back mountain of the manor.

Two sturdy peach trees with lush branches and leaves were planted in front of the elegant courtyard.

As early spring arrives, pink peach blossoms adorn the branches.

Beneath the tree, Lu Zhiyuan, dressed in a scholar's robe and with snow-white hair, gazed intently at the peach blossoms covering the tree.

Shen Wenxing held a book in his hand and walked slowly along the winding bluestone path.

Hearing the noise, Lu Zhiyuan snapped out of his daze and turned to look at him.

"Master."

Shen Wenxing approached and bowed respectfully.

Lu Zhiyuan nodded and said with a smile, "What brings you here today?"

The two walked slowly into the courtyard and sat down in the pavilion.

Lu Zhiyuan waved his hand gently, and the teapot on the desk in front of him slowly floated up, pouring a cup of tea for himself and Shen Wenxing.

"There is something I would like to ask you to review, Master."

Shen Wenxing accepted the tea and handed over the "Nine Fiends Body-Gathering Technique" in his hand.

Lu Zhiyuan glanced at the book with curiosity, a glint of light flashing in his eyes, and the book slowly opened in front of him.

Shen Wenxing drank his tea without interrupting.

After a while——

"Although I do not understand the way of body cultivation, I can vaguely see the wonder of this method. The person who created this method is probably an unparalleled killing god."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wenxing pondered for a moment and then cupped his hands in greeting: "Does the Master not think this method is somewhat neither righteous nor evil?"

Lu Zhiyuan shook his head with a smile.

"Life and death, taking away and granting, are the natural order of Heaven."

"Heaven and earth are ruthless, treating all things like straw dogs, but this is actually a kind of perfect fairness and justice, not cold-hearted indifference."

“The straw dog is a straw-made mate, which is respectfully held during the sacrifice and then left to return to dust after the sacrifice. This is the proper way to do things.”

"The word 'killing' refers to the act of taking lives. In ancient times, there were soldiers and officers who guarded their homes and served their country, and fought on the battlefield to kill the enemy. Can we say that their actions were righteous or evil?"

Shen Wenxing remained silent upon hearing this.

Lu Zhiyuan continued, "Innocent slaughter is evil, and one must be cautious when cultivating this method."

"If you still have concerns, I can compose an auxiliary method for this technique, which will greatly reduce the risk of practitioners going astray."

Shen Wenxing was slightly taken aback, then overjoyed and said, "Then I'll have to trouble you, Master."

Lu Zhiyuan smiled and waved his sleeves, saying, "This matter is also a kind of cultivation for me."

"I happen to have some free time these days, so I thought I'd like to go out for a walk."

"When I return, I will also teach you the auxiliary methods of this technique."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wenxing's face showed a hint of worry as he asked, "Is the Master going on a long journey?"

At this point, Lu Zhiyuan was clearly much older.

The reason why Wen Dao Lian Shen has been able to live to this day is because his powerful divine soul has slowed down the aging process of his physical body.

Their actual lifespan is far less than that of immortal cultivators who are nurtured by the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.

His current body is so fragile that even the slightest mishap would leave it with irreversible damage.

When the physical body collapses, it is difficult for the soul to survive as well.

"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing," Lu Zhiyuan said with a calm smile, offering words of comfort.

"Master, you should just stay in Yunzhong County," Shen Wenxing said, still somewhat uneasy.

Lu Zhiyuan didn't say anything, but changed the subject and brought up Shen Chongxuan's matter.

"I heard that Chongxuan went to Lincang a few days ago. I wonder what his business was?"

Shen Wenxing cupped his hands and replied, "It's to fulfill a wish."

He recounted the story of Shen Chongxuan and the woman from the Zhan family in Lincang.

Upon hearing this, Lu Zhiyuan smiled with relief.

Shen Chongxuan was Shen Wenyan's eldest son and also Shen Wenyan's teacher.

In his eyes, Shen Chongxuan was just like his own grandson.

Over the years, he had watched him grow up little by little. Compared to Shen Wenyan, Shen Chongxuan's personality was also more gentle.

If we could see him settle down and start a family, it would fulfill his wish.

……

one year later.

In Danzhou, two sword lights pierced the void and flew towards Tianjun Mountain.

In the void, Huang Lingshan glanced at Shen Wen'an beside her and asked, "How was your trip?"

A rare smile appeared on Shen Wen'an's face.

During his year-long stay in Danzhou, he followed Huang Lingshan to many places, visited some senior figures and met many outstanding peers.

More than a year of travel not only greatly broadened his experience, but also improved his cultivation from the late stage of fetal breathing to the perfect stage of fetal breathing.

After returning from Tianjun Mountain, I will begin preparations to break through to the level of a Sword Immortal.

"Senior sister, what is the difference between the path of the sword immortal and the path of the golden core?"

After a moment of contemplation, Huang Lingshan said, "The so-called sword immortal, sword intent is only one aspect. As for the specific differences..."

A flash of light appeared in his hand, and suddenly a small sword, about an inch long, appeared, containing an extremely terrifying aura.

The small sword was entirely green, as if it were carved from jade.

Its sword intent was intense, and it faintly showed signs of tearing through the void.

"The Immortal Golden Core is the source of a cultivator's power. After being infused with the element of metal, it will possess certain magical properties."

“We sword cultivators are different. Our sword embryo is integrated with that wisp of immortal golden nature. In addition to being able to fully manifest sword intent, it also has other wonderful uses.”

As he spoke, he sheathed his short sword and looked at Shen Wen'an, saying, "You should be able to sense that."

Did you feel it?
Shen Wen'an was somewhat puzzled, seemingly not understanding what she meant.

Seeing this, Huang Lingshan smiled faintly and said, "You have already mastered the power of intent, haven't you ever wondered why you can't manifest intent like me?"

Shen Wen'an looked slightly taken aback.

He used his own sword embryo as a vessel to integrate the aura of the underworld, and successfully mastered the power of intent with his late-stage fetal breathing cultivation.

After that, he was busy refining the Sword Bone Technique and did not attempt to manifest the intent.

At this moment, Huang Lingshan mentioned it, and he secretly manipulated the sword embryo in his body, wanting to manifest the artistic conception.

However, no matter how hard he tried, he could only attach the power of intent to the sword embryo, and could not manifest the intent itself outside the body like Huang Lingshan's Green Bamboo Sword Intent.

Sensing this, Huang Lingxiu smiled faintly and said, "Compared to the Golden Core of Immortal Dao, when a sword cultivator reaches the Sword Immortal realm, that wisp of immortal golden nature is the strongest attack power of a sword cultivator."

"You can also understand it as a sword immortal's willingness to fight to the death being far more terrifying than a golden core cultivator."

As Shen Wen'an pondered, seemingly understanding but not quite, two streaks of light flew swiftly from the distant, undulating Tianjun Mountains.

The light flowed to a distance from the two, and the figures that appeared were the two Golden Core cultivators from Tianjun Mountain who had met him once before.

"So it's Fellow Daoist Ling Shan. I was wondering why such a strong sword intent would appear near my Tianjun Mountain."

The old woman named Miao Qian cupped her hands and spoke.

It was clear that Huang Lingshan had summoned her natal flying sword, which alerted them.

"Hello, two seniors."

Shen Wen'an cupped his hands and spoke, and Huang Lingshan nodded slightly in return.

"Are you two here to see Junior Brother Qingjing?"

After a moment's thought, Miao Qian understood that Huang Lingshan and Shen Wen'an had come to retrieve the magical artifact that they had entrusted to their junior brother Zhang Qingjing to refine.

"Exactly."

Huang Lingshan calmly asked, "I wonder if Fellow Daoist Zhang has finished refining the magic weapon?"

Miao Qian shook her head slightly and said, "I don't know either, but you two can wait inside the gate for a while, and I'll have someone go and ask."

The two exchanged a glance and then followed Miao Qian toward Tianjun Mountain.

Because of the matter of condensing the Wisdom Sword Technique, Tianjun Mountain treated Shen Wen'an and Huang Lingshan with extreme politeness and respect.

For the few days before Zhang Qingjing emerged from seclusion, the two stayed temporarily at Tianjun Mountain. At the same time, an elder of Tianjun Mountain at the peak of the Nascent Soul realm specially led the two to appreciate the scenery of Tianjun Mountain.

Five days later, Zhang Qingjing finally emerged from seclusion.

At the small pavilion atop the mountain, the three sat together.

Zhang Qingjing, dressed in an indigo Taoist robe, smiled and waved her hand, and a long spear and a strangely shaped longsword appeared in front of her.

"I have successfully completed my mission. The quality of these two magical artifacts has reached the peak of the middle grade."

"At the time, I even planned to infuse all the spiritual energy in that dragon's corpse into one of the magic artifacts, to see if I could make it reach the level of a high-grade magic artifact."

"However, this move is too risky, and I dare not try it rashly."

Upon hearing this, Huang Lingshan and Shen Wen'an each picked up the magical artifacts in front of them and examined them carefully.

Looking at the spear in his hand, Shen Wen'an couldn't help but feel a little surprised.

He had only ever seen the Cloud River Chain in the hands of Elder Luo Yao of Luoxia Mountain as a mid-grade magic weapon.

It is said that Luo Yao obtained it from a historical site years ago.

Judging from the aura emanating from the spear in his hand, it was indeed more formidable than Yun Helian's.

The entire gun body was made from the bones of the Golden Core Poisonous Dragon mixed with a kind of spirit gold ore with a silvery-white luster, while the spearhead was made from the tip of the tail vertebrae of the Poisonous Dragon. The overall color was silvery-white.

"A mid-grade magic weapon is enough."

"For the Shen family, the practical value of two mid-grade magic artifacts is even greater than that of high-grade magic artifacts."

"Especially since they are two mid-grade peak magic weapons."

Huang Lingshan handed the giant bone sword, which resembled a heavy sword, to Shen Wen'an and spoke slowly.

Shen Wen'an nodded.

In the current cultivation world, most cultivators at the Fetal Breathing Realm use low-grade magic artifacts. Only those at the late Fetal Breathing Realm or even the Perfect Fetal Breathing Realm have special opportunities and may be able to possess mid-grade magic artifacts.

As for top-grade... even some Golden Core cultivators might not possess it.

"Besides these two magical artifacts, I discovered that the dragon bones that had lost their spirituality were quite hard, so I spent some more time crafting these." As a master craftsman, Zhang Qingjing clearly didn't want to waste any good materials.

They forged all the soulless dragon bones into long white bone spears.

These bone spears, because they contained a lot of spirit gold ore, could also be inscribed with array runes, barely reaching the level of low-grade magic weapons.

However, apart from being exceptionally hard, it is somewhat weaker than a normal low-grade magic weapon.

"Thank you, senior!"

Upon seeing the hundred white bone spears that appeared before him, Shen Wen'an sincerely bowed to Zhang Qingjing.

He knew very well that although these bone spears were not difficult to forge, they would definitely waste a lot of people's effort and also cost some spirit gold ore.

"Young friend Shen, you're too kind."

"I also don't want to see these materials go to waste."

Zhang Qingjing took a sip of tea and then brought out the best item.

Those were three suits of black and red armor!
The armor was a complete set, exuding a strong aura of magical artifacts.

"These three robes are the pinnacle of my life's work in weapon crafting."

Looking at the three sets of armor in front of her, Zhang Qingjing's eyes flashed with a strong sense of pride.

All three sets of robes were of superior quality; they were clearly different from ordinary robes just by looking at them.

After examining one of the robes, Shen Wen'an respectfully handed it to Zhang Qingjing.

Upon seeing this, Zhang Qingjing was slightly taken aback, then smiled faintly and said, "I did say before that I would leave one set as a reward."

"But at the time, we thought we could only refine mid-grade magic robes."

"Now that we have been fortunate enough to forge a high-grade magic robe, it would be inappropriate to use it as a reward."

A high-grade magic robe is worth as much as all the rewards and materials he received for refining the weapon. If he were to accept it as payment, not only would he lose the favor, but he might also be suspected of being greedy.

"Since it's an agreement, please accept it, senior."

Shen Wen'an placed the robe in front of Zhang Qingjing and waved his hand to put the other two robes into his storage bag.

"This……"

Just as Zhang Qingjing was hesitating, Huang Lingshan spoke up.

"If Fellow Daoist Zhang feels unworthy of this, I happen to have something else to ask you for."

"Oh?" Zhang Qingjing looked at her with some confusion: "What on my body has Fellow Daoist Lingshan taken a fancy to?"

After a moment's thought, Huang Lingshan said, "The Seed of Li Fire."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Qingjing's brows furrowed instantly.

The Seed of Departing Fire was arguably one of his most precious possessions. Yet Huang Lingshan had the audacity to demand it. Even with his good temper, a surge of anger rose within him.

"Ha ha……"

"Then young friend Shen should put this robe away."

Zhang Qingjing slowly pushed the robe on the desk back in front of Shen Wen'an.

The meaning is clear: he would never give away the Seed of Departure.

"Fellow Daoist Zhang, don't be anxious."

Huang Lingshan smiled and said, "What I'm referring to is just a wisp of flame from the Seed of Departing Fire, not the entire Seed of Departing Fire."

Hearing this, Zhang Qingjing's expression softened slightly, but then she asked curiously, "As far as I know, Fellow Daoist Lingshan is neither skilled in weapon crafting nor in alchemy. What use would she have for a wisp of flame from this Seed of Departing Fire?"

The greatest function of the Seed of Separation is to absorb the power of earth fire and generate spiritual fire that can help cultivators refine pills and weapons.

Aside from that, it doesn't seem to have much effect. "I need to nurture a treasure."

Huang Lingshan gave a vague answer.

Zhang Qingjing looked at her suspiciously, hesitated for a moment, and then nodded and said, "In that case, please wait a moment, fellow Daoist."

Zhang Qingjing stood up, cupped her hands in greeting, and then transformed into a streak of light, disappearing before the two of them.

"Did Senior Sister ask for the Seed of Departing Fire for that technique?"

Seeing that Zhang Qingjing had already left, Shen Wen'an asked curiously.

Huang Lingshan nodded slightly: "We'll discuss this after we leave Tianjun Mountain."

After waiting for about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, Zhang Qingjing returned carrying a bronze lamp.

A tiny golden flame, no bigger than a bean, floated quietly inside the lamp.

Upon closer inspection, Shen Wen'an suddenly noticed that there was a spirit crystal placed beneath the bronze lamp.

The spiritual energy within the spirit crystal was slowly guided out by a miniature array and injected into the golden flame.

Is this thing burning spiritual energy?

While Shen Wen'an was still surprised, Zhang Qingjing had already handed the bronze lamp to Huang Lingshan.

"Fellow Daoist Ling Shan, please remember that if you do not have a source of earth fire containing pure fire energy to nurture you, you will need to replace the spirit crystal every other day."

"Otherwise, the flame will go out immediately once it loses its energy."

Huang Lingshan accepted the bronze lamp and nodded slightly, saying, "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Zhang."

"In that case, we won't bother you any longer. Farewell."

After exchanging farewells, the two left Tianjun Mountain directly.

……

The Green Vine Sword Pavilion stands atop a thousand-foot cliff.

After traveling for more than a year, the two finally returned here.

After Huang Lingshan replaced the bronze lamp in front of her with a new spirit crystal, she slowly pushed the lamp in front of Shen Wen'an.

"Take this wisp of fire back to the Land of Yangnao later."

Upon hearing this, Shen Wen'an waved his hands repeatedly.

"This thing is simply a money-devouring beast; my Shen family can't afford to raise it."

A tiny flame, no bigger than a bean, can burn one spirit crystal a day. The Shen family's meager resources are simply not enough to sustain it.

Moreover, he had no idea what this thing could be used for.

Seeing his reaction, Huang Lingshan suddenly smiled.

"This wisp of fire is something that countless alchemists and weapon refiners dream of."

"You're the one who's being disliked here?"

Shen Wen'an looked suspicious, and after a moment of thought, he suddenly asked in surprise, "Senior Sister means... that 'Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Technique' is a weapon refining method!?"

After winning the strange metal plaque containing the "Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique" from the Xue family, Huang Lingshan never told him what the "Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique" actually was.

Now, she suddenly asked Zhang Qingjing for a wisp of the Li Fire flame, making Shen Wen'an realize that the "Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Technique" is very likely a refining technique left by ancient weapon refiners.

"To be precise, this 'Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Technique' is a true method that includes both weapon refining and cultivation."

"The Miscellaneous Records of the Great Chu Immortal Dynasty states that the 'Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Technique' was a required skill for all weapon refiners in the Heavenly Craft Workshop of the Great Chu Immortal Dynasty."

"Do you still remember that immortal sect in Qishan called Hundred Refinement Valley?"

Shen Wen'an nodded.

He knew about Hundred Refinement Valley, and it was even related to the Shen family by marriage.

However, after the invasion from the Southern Frontier, the disciples of Hundred Refinement Valley fled back to Danzhou in a sorry state, and the two families have not been in contact for a long time.

"The founders of Hundred Refinement Valley were a few disciples of the Heavenly Craft Workshop."

"However, it is likely that none of them even managed to cultivate the true 'Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Technique' before the Great Chu Immortal Dynasty was destroyed."

"Otherwise, Hundred Refinement Valley wouldn't be in such a dire state."

Shen Wen'an suddenly realized.

His gaze was fixed on the quietly burning flames of the fire before him, and a troubled expression returned to his face.

"But this thing burns way too much; the Shen family simply can't afford to keep it..."

Huang Lingshan gently stroked the bronze lamp and said slowly, "This thing doesn't necessarily need to be maintained with spirit crystals all the time."

"If we can find a ley line rich in fiery energy and place it in it, allowing it to absorb the fiery energy, then we won't need spirit crystals to maintain it."

"Moreover, if the earth fire energy is sufficient, after several years, this wisp of flame may slowly transform into a seed of fire."

"By then, with the Seed of Li Fire in hand and the 'Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Technique,' your Shen family might actually become a family of weapon refiners."

Hearing Huang Lingshan say that, Shen Wen'an suddenly felt a surge of excitement.

Over the years, the Shen family has put a lot of effort into cultivating immortality and various arts.

Unfortunately, there has been little progress.

The "Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Technique" is an ancient weapon-refining method inherited from the Immortal Dynasty. If the Shen family can truly carry it forward, becoming a weapon-refining family is not an unrealistic dream.

The fiery energy of the earth's veins...

After a moment's thought, Shen Wen'an recalled the lava lake where he had condensed the Sword Bone Technique.

He had a gut feeling that there was probably no place in the entire Yangnao Land more suitable for nurturing the flames of the Li Huo than Yanhugang.

However, the entire Western Wilderness is currently under the control of the Great Wushan Demon Cave.

If they truly intend to take over Flame Lake Ridge and properly nurture the Flame Seed, the Shen family will inevitably have to take the initiative.

Even if we don't drive the demon cave of Mount Wu out of the Western Wilderness, we should at least seize a large part of the Western Wilderness territory and guard the passage from Yunshui City to Yanhugang.

It's actually very difficult to do that.

The demon cultivators in the Western Wilderness are not too strong for the Shen family at present, but they have a terrifying Golden Core power behind them with a continuous stream of support.

This matter needs to be carefully planned.

"I remember my senior sister saying before that the 'Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique' would also be helpful to you?"

Suppressing his thoughts, Shen Wen'an spoke in a deep voice.

This time, Huang Lingshan has done the Shen family a great favor again, and the Shen family must find a way to repay her.

Huang Lingshan hesitated for a moment and then nodded, saying, "I do need to use the ancient weapon-refining methods."

"However, this matter is not urgent. We must wait until a member of the Shen family appears who can initially master this ancient weapon-refining method."

"You should return to Yangnao for now."

Upon hearing that he couldn't help Huang Lingshan at the moment, Shen Wen'an was slightly disappointed. He stood up, cupped his hands, and said, "In that case, I'll head back now."

Huang Lingshan nodded and handed over a storage bag.

"These are the spirit crystals I won at the Xue Family Immortal Martial Arena. The odds were 1 to 3. I'll keep two and give you one."

"In addition... the 'Li Palace Bing Fire Refining Form Technique' can also reveal its contents by burning with the flames of the Li Fire."

"Be careful when you return this time."

Looking at the storage bag, Shen Wen'an didn't want to accept it anymore, but when he thought about how the Shen family was indeed in a bit of financial straits recently, he shamelessly took the storage bag.

"Thank you, senior sister."

"Go."

Huang Lingshan got up and escorted him to the edge of the Thousand-Foot Cliff, watching him transform into a sword light and fly away into the distance.

"The Shen family's fortune is truly remarkable. I hope I haven't made the wrong choice this time..."

After muttering something in a low voice, Huang Lingshan slowly walked towards the Bamboo Grove Cottage.

……

The border between Danzhou and Yangnao.

A sword light flew over and transformed into Shen Wen'an's figure.

He stepped forward respectfully and bowed to the figure sitting cross-legged on the boulder.

"senior."

The old man in the straw hat raised his eyes slightly and said lazily, "Little guy, if you still want to find loopholes like last time, you'd better give up now."

Upon hearing this, a hint of embarrassment flashed across Shen Wen'an's face. He immediately cupped his hands and said, "This time it won't happen. This junior is leaving Danzhou and returning to Yangnao."

Upon hearing this, the old man in the straw hat slowly sat up straight.

Are you sure you want to go back?

"If you come again next time, I won't let you pass."

Shen Wen'an nodded: "It's time to go back. Thank you, senior."

Although the old man in the straw hat is very likely from the Southern Frontier and one of the pawns plotting to control the entire Yangnao Land, at least for now, he doesn't seem to have any obvious hostility towards me or the Shen family.

Faced with such a powerful figure, Shen Wen'an still wanted to show as much goodwill as possible.

Thus, at crucial moments, the favor of a powerful figure could very well bring about a turning point for the family.

"Go."

The old man in the straw hat waved with a smile.

Shen Wen'an bowed again and flew directly towards the barrier.

After his figure completely disappeared, a faint smile appeared on the old man's lips, as if he were muttering to himself, "Old man, I've repaid this favor for you. I hope you won't try anything funny again."

……

Yunshui City.

Shen Wen'an arrived on his sword, and as soon as he passed through the Renshui Concealing Spirit Formation, his expression suddenly turned to one of great horror!

Whoosh!
Without the slightest delay, he instantly rushed towards the Shen family manor.

Martial Arts School at the Foot of the Mountain.

Xu Zhan was instructing a group of body cultivators in the martial arts arena when he suddenly noticed a sharp sword light rushing straight towards the martial arts hall from the sky!

Before he could react, the sword light transformed into a figure standing in front of him.

As Shen Wen'an sized up Xu Zhan, his eyes flashed like swords, and sword energy appeared behind him.

"Third...Third Master, what's wrong?"

Upon seeing this, a martial arts master mustered his courage and approached cautiously to inquire.

Shen Wen'an ignored him and just stared intently at Xu Zhan.

The moment he passed through the city's protective formation, he sensed a very familiar yin energy!

This yin energy was very similar to the power of the underworld, leading him to mistakenly believe that someone from the underworld had broken into Yunshui City.

But when he saw Xu Zhan, he found that his aura was somewhat different from that of the people of the underworld.

"Third Master."

Xu Zhan also realized that the person in front of him was the strongest member of the Shen family, the Third Master Shen Wen'an.

"Who are you?"

Shen Wen'an frowned and asked.

Having left the Shen family for less than two years, he was somewhat puzzled as to how a body cultivator with such a strange aura had appeared in the family.

Judging from his cultivation level, which has reached the peak of the second realm, he is unlikely to be a newly emerged member of an outside clan.

"Reporting to Third Master, this is Xu Zhan."

Seeing that Shen Wen'an's expression had eased slightly, the martial arts instructor next to him quickly added, "Third Master, young Xu is the old patriarch's newly accepted disciple."

The eldest brother's apprentice?
He looked Xu Zhan up and down again, pondered for a moment, and said, "Come with me."

Xu Zhan respectfully cupped his hands and immediately followed him toward the Shen family manor.

Inside the room, Shen Wenxing looked at Shen Wen'an and Xu Zhan, who was following behind with his head hanging low, and asked in confusion, "What's wrong with this kid?"

"Did it make you angry?"

Shen Wen'an turned to look at Xu Zhan, then at his elder brother, and said in a deep voice, "Brother, what's with this boy's aura?"

"It's a long story..." Shen Wenxing sighed, walked slowly to Xu Zhan, patted him on the shoulder and said, "Go ahead and get busy."

"Yes, Master."

After Xu Zhan bowed and left, Shen Wenxing briefly recounted the strange events that occurred at the bottom of the Laishui River and all of Xu Zhan's experiences.

After hearing this, Shen Wen'an's expression became very solemn.

He was now somewhat confused about the connection between the giant city that appeared at the bottom of the Laishui River and the strange underworld.

Why does this little guy named Xu Zhan possess such pure Yin energy?
"Does Brother mean that Father doesn't intend to explore the bottom of the Laishui River?"

Shen Wenxing sighed and said, "Father is afraid that if something is really discovered, it will be a disaster for the Shen family."

What lies at the bottom of the Laishui River, whether a blessing or a curse, is a disaster for the Shen family.

If it is indeed some extraordinary relic, it will surely alarm other forces.

It might even cause the Golden Core forces in the Southern Frontier to break their contracts and then come to fight for it.

Yunshui City is located right on the banks of the Laishui River. If any powerful individuals clash over the ruins, the Shen family will be the first to be affected.

Shen Wen'an naturally thought of this as well.

However, compared to the Golden Core forces in the Southern Frontier, he was more afraid of what the things at the bottom of the Laishui River had to do with the Underworld.

If this attracts the attention of those in the underworld, the outcome would likely be even worse.

"Don't worry, Father has been making deductions all this time. He should be able to get some warnings if there's any trouble."

Shen Wenxing patted his shoulder to comfort him.

"By the way, how was your trip to Danzhou?"

Hearing his brother say this, Shen Wen'an could only suppress his worries and reply, "It's not bad, I've gotten a good opportunity."

"Brother, go and fetch Chongming. We need to discuss the next steps with Father."

……

The second floor of Blackwater Pavilion.

The grandfather and his grandson sat together.

Shen Wen'an brought out all the spoils he had gained in Danzhou.

Two high-grade magic robes, two mid-grade magic artifacts, as well as spirit crystals and the flame lamp of the Li Fire, etc.

In front of the three of them, he finally took out the most important mysterious metal plaque.

"This thing is the key to the rise of my Shen family."

Upon hearing this, the three of them exchanged surprised and doubtful glances.

Shen Chongming asked excitedly, "Third Uncle, what is this?"

Shen Wen'an placed the metal plaque on the desk in front of him and said, "This contains a true method called 'Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique'."

"This method is not only a true cultivation method, but also contains ancient weapon-refining techniques."

“Inherited from the Xian Dynasty of Danzhou.”

After he finished speaking, the room fell silent instantly.

Shen Yuan and the other two clearly understood what this so-called "Li Gong Bing Huo Refining Form Technique" meant to the Shen family!
A true method that leads directly to the Nascent Soul Realm!
It also contains ancient weapon-refining techniques!

Once the Shen family digests this, they will have direct control over the art of weapon crafting among the various arts of cultivation.

For a power, cultivating immortality and mastering various arts not only signifies strength and resources, but also serves as a path to wealth.

For example, Qiyun Valley, one of the many immortal sects in Qishan, mastered the art of alchemy and formations, and at its peak, it was a renowned presence throughout Danzhou.

Another example is the Tianfu Sect.

With his mastery of talismanic arts, he is a force that no major power in the entire Qishan Mountain Range dares to provoke.

"Third Uncle, what kind of treasure is this lamp?"

Shen Chongming, who was the first to react, noticed the bronze lamp on the table in front of him and asked curiously.

Shen Yuan's gaze, however, fell upon the golden flame, slightly larger than a soybean, floating in the center of the lamp.

"This fire doesn't seem to be ordinary..."

Shen Wen'an nodded and said, "This is a wisp of flame that was peeled off from the Seed of Fire."

"It is also the key to whether the Shen family can carry forward the art of weapon crafting in the future."

He recounted everything about the fire flame in one breath.

The three people in the room had solemn expressions.

"You mean we should initiate a war with the Demon Cave of Mount Wu?"

Shen Wenxing spoke in a deep voice.

"Let's start the war then. Those beasts have been crossing Yinlong Mountain and plundering villages and towns around the cities under the Shen family's control lately."

"Now is the time to take advantage of this opportunity to inflict heavy damage on them, and ideally, seize the Western Wilderness!"

A ruthless glint flashed in Shen Chongming's eyes.

The demon cave of Mount Wu suffered a great loss during the last major harvest, and after the harvest ended, it kept harassing the cities under the Shen family's rule.

Every now and then they would cross Hidden Dragon Mountain and plunder villagers and cultivators.

Over the years, with the help of the main family, the major affiliated families successfully repelled the attacks, but suffered heavy losses.

After expressing his opinion, Shen Chongming looked at Shen Yuan and the other two, wanting to hear their thoughts.

"What does Father think?"

Meeting his son's gaze seeking his opinion, Shen Wenxing looked at Shen Yuan instead.

"whispering sound……"

Seeing this, Shen Yuan scoffed and looked at Shen Chongming, saying, "What?"

"Are you and your son setting a trap for me?"

"Look at him, he looks at me, so in the end, this matter is still left for me to decide?"

Upon hearing this, the father and son exchanged glances and then both gave awkward smiles.

"Fine, let them fight if they want."

Shen Yuan clapped his hands, his eyes deep, and said, "However, we cannot only focus on the demon cave of Mount Dawu."

"The Yin Corpse Sect and the Fushan Kingdom are also eyeing my Shen family."

“Once the Shen family’s power is tied up in the Western Wilderness, Yingchuan and Jinghe will inevitably take action.”

Shen Chongming nodded and said, "Grandpa, don't worry. I will send someone to Yunzhong County City later to ask Luoxia Mountain to help keep an eye on the Yin Corpse Sect."

"As for the Kingdom of Fushan, I have already investigated it."

"The Yin Corpse Sect didn't benefit from the last big harvest, and now they are constantly harassing the villages and towns on the border of Yingchuan, trying to plunder the people under the jurisdiction of Fushan Kingdom."

"As long as the two countries don't break up in the short term, they won't be able to spare much resources to target us."

As the head of the Shen family, Shen Chongming only acts like a child when facing his father Shen Wenxing and grandfather Shen Yuan, wanting their approval and listening to their opinions.

Even without the two of them, he could already do many things very well.

"Alright, since you're prepared, then let's fight."

"I will protect your home for you; you don't need to worry about anything in Yunshui City."

Shen Yuan stood up, glanced at his children and grandchildren in front of him, and said in a deep voice.

This is an opportunity for the Shen family. Their children and grandchildren can go out and expand their territory, and all they can do is ensure that their children have no worries about the future.

(End of this chapter)