Am I the old man who's always by my apprentices' side?

Chapter 318 Immortal Alliance
In the square, while everyone was still immersed in the shock brought by the Minor Spirit Gathering Manifestation Array, Tang Yinxiang smiled slightly, and a stream of light flew out from her sleeve and landed in the center of the square.

As soon as the light touched the ground, it transformed into dozens of jade talismans, which spread out according to some mysterious pattern, faintly forming a complex design.

Another formation I've never seen before!

Chang Ping'an was somewhat surprised by these actions. He couldn't help but sigh, "Isn't the leader of the Tianji Sect my fourth junior sister's disciple? Shouldn't he have just begun to cultivate spiritual energy? How can he use spiritual power so freely?"

Zhang Chengdao shook his head and explained, "These jade talismans are not controlled by her spiritual power; they are a set of magical artifacts in themselves."

He knew this very well, because this thing was something Tang Xiaoyu had consulted him about and then refined himself; it was a kind of "portable array".

Among the many books in the library, there is indeed a very common type of "portable array," which involves inscribing a spiritual seal on a jade talisman. When needed, the jade talisman is thrown out, and relying on the spiritual energy it automatically absorbs, it floats according to its location, creating an array. In this way, even cultivators who are not skilled in arrays can quickly use some simple arrays.

Because of its simple principle, low cost, and convenient use, this kind of magic weapon for setting up formations is very popular in the cultivation civilization and is widely praised. Therefore, there are countless records about its production method, so it is not surprising that Tang Xiaoyu was able to learn it.

However, Chang Ping'an was usually so busy that he was constantly being asked questions by his junior fellow disciples in his spare time. He had hardly ever looked at the books in the library and was not familiar with these relatively "professional" issues. Therefore, he was quite surprised to hear his master's words:

"This Sect Leader Tang can actually refine magic weapons?! Isn't she a formation cultivator? Could she be a dual cultivator of formations and weapon crafting?!"

Xu Wen guessed, "It must have been Tang Zhenren who helped refine it. I saw her running to Tiangong Peak a while ago!"

“Indeed, this item is called ‘Array Jade Talisman’. It’s not difficult to make; your fourth junior sister made it herself. However, I don’t know what kind of array is engraved on it.”

Zhang Chengdao did not hide his lack of expertise in formations. He put his hands behind his back and said, "There are three thousand great paths, and everything can be entered into the Dao. Although I know a little about other things, I only know the basics of formations."

However, whether in Chang Ping'an's heart or in the eyes of the disciples of the White Stone Immortal Sect, Zhang Chengdao was an omnipotent "immortal". His statement that he "only knew the superficial" was, in everyone's mind, a vast knowledge that was far beyond what ordinary people could achieve. Therefore, everyone thought that their sect leader was being modest, and they would never really think that Zhang Chengdao was ignorant.

In a few words, Tang Yinxiang continued:

"This mere formation is nothing to boast about. Although the Heavenly Mystery Sect was founded relatively late, we are willing to explore the path to immortality together with you fellow practitioners. This formation is called the 'Nine Palaces and Seven Luminaries Deduction Formation,' created by our disciples over three months, based on ancient arithmetic and astrological orientations. Although its power is not readily apparent, it can help people concentrate their minds and gain a glimpse into the wonders of the heavens."

Before she finished speaking, the jade talismans all lit up with a faint light.

The spiritual energy within the formation flowed erratically, sometimes slowly and sometimes rapidly, and faintly manifested the phantom images of the sun, moon, and stars. Although indistinct, they exuded a profound and mysterious aura.

At the same time, many cultivators on the high platform subconsciously held their breath and focused their minds, feeling an unprecedented clarity of mind. Even Zhang Chengdao was extremely surprised and couldn't help but exclaim "Eh!"

He first frowned, seemingly lost in thought, but then he quickly realized something. Looking up, he vaguely saw the changing stars in the sky with his eyes, which had long since transcended the mortal realm.

Sure enough, the arrangement of the stars in the sky was exactly the same as that shown in this formation!
It turns out that this formation is not actually designed in a very profound way. It simply "projects" the trajectory of the stars in the sky and is combined with a "spirit gathering formation" to achieve the effect of allowing cultivators to calm down and comprehend it. If some cultivators have a special feeling for the Nine Palaces and Seven Luminaries, it may indeed be quite useful.

Just then, the elder of the Taiyue Sword Sect clapped his hands in praise: "I never imagined that your sect could create such a wonderful formation! The immortal path is just beginning to emerge, and it needs such pioneering and enterprising spirit. We, the pioneering sects, should also help each other and share the responsibility of protecting the world!"

His words were truly sincere—after the Taiyue Sword Sect transformed into the Immortal Path, although their swordsmanship was formidable, they suffered from a lack of auxiliary cultivation methods, resulting in very slow progress in their cultivation.

Apart from Li Zhi, who was born with a sword physique, it has been several months and not a single disciple in the sect has reached the Foundation Establishment stage. This has caused great anxiety among the few elders and the sect leader, Qu Zhiweng.

Originally, Qu Zhiweng and the elders of the Taiyue Sword Sect only intended to offer their congratulations and cultivate relationships at the founding ceremony of the Tianji Sect; they had no intention of gaining any substantial benefits from it.

Come to think of it, the Taiyue Sword Sect started cultivating immortality several months earlier than the Tianji Sect, yet they still haven't made any significant breakthroughs. Even their cultivation methods were taught by disciples sent by the White Stone Immortal from the neighboring White Stone Immortal Sect. And yet, their own sect has a so-called "born sword physique" genius!
Even if the Heavenly Secrets Sect is powerful, how powerful can it be?

Surely your Heavenly Mystery Sect doesn't have some kind of "born formation master" genius, right? Do you think geniuses are as common as cabbages, found everywhere?

But to my surprise, the Heavenly Secrets Sect is truly extraordinary!
In a short while, the array that was displayed, although not a means of attack, looked quite useful. At least several high-ranking members of the Taiyue Sword Sect were already privately discussing how to improve relations with the Tianji Sect and ask them to help set up a few more arrays on Mount Taiyue...

"Fellow Daoist is quite right. Martial arts are declining while immortality is rising, and the world is about to change. Let alone anything else, the fall of the Later Zhou Kingdom and the war in the Great Changhe Kingdom are both related to the rise of immortality and the explosion of spiritual energy. Yet, in this world, only the White Stone Immortal Sect has the ability to handle this matter. This is truly a bad situation..."

Tang Yinxiang responded amicably, exchanging pleasantries for a long time, until finally revealing his true intentions: "My Tianji Sect, along with your esteemed Taiyue Sword Sect and the Tang Clan of Sichuan, should help each other. If you are all interested, why not form an 'Immortal Alliance' to combine the strength of the three sects and assist the Baishi Immortal Sect in opening up the path to immortality, guarding the heavens and earth, and protecting all living beings? What do you all think?"

The elder from the Taiyue Sword Sect didn't speak, but glanced at Qu Zhiweng, who then fell silent.

So this is where the Heavenly Secrets Sect was waiting!

Leaving aside the White Stone Immortal Sect and other matters, all three sects currently practicing the Immortal Path were either supported or taught by the White Stone Immortal Sect. Even if all three sects were combined, they probably wouldn't be enough to fill a single finger of that White Stone Immortal.

However, among the three sects excluding the White Stone Immortal Sect, it remains to be discussed which is larger and which is smaller.

In the past, when martial arts were at their peak, there were similar organizations. For example, the Martial Arts Alliance, which is nominally controlled by Wuya Academy but actually controlled by the Chu State court, is such an organization.

Back when the leader of the Martial Arts Alliance was still the old Sword Saint, all the sects and martial artists in the martial arts world gave him face. Even the Taiyue Sword Sect flourished for a time because of this, and the world respected the Martial Arts Alliance.

However, after the Sword Saint passed away, the position of leader of the Martial Arts Alliance became vacant. When the Northern Xiao Kingdom was powerful, the Jade Void Sect Leader (former leader) was pushed into the position. But when the Northern Xiao Kingdom declined and the Southern Chu Kingdom became prosperous, it was the turn of Zhenze Mountain Man of Wuyai Academy...

Everyone knows that the Southern Chu Kingdom has very strict management of martial artists, and behind the Wuya Academy is the Southern Chu Kingdom's imperial court.

As a result, the Martial Arts Alliance lost its deterrent power, and the martial artists began to disregard it.

Of course, this is also related to the fact that Zhenze Shanren's cultivation level is only a third-grade innate Venerable.

However, since the path of immortality was just beginning and only a few sects practiced it, it was indeed appropriate for them to band together and form an "Immortal Alliance".

But what do you mean by bringing this up by a newly established sect like the Heavenly Mystery Sect?
Could it be that he also wants to become the leader of this "Immortal Alliance"? Qu Zhiweng was silent for a short while, then stroked his beard and slowly passed the question to Tang Yinxiang like a football: "The 'Immortal Alliance' proposed by Sect Leader Tang is indeed quite necessary, but where will this Immortal Alliance be located, and which fellow Daoist will be elected as the leader? Does Sect Leader Tang have any plans?"

The Tang Clan, who had remained silent until now, could no longer play dead. Tang Chi quickly interjected with a smile, "It's not appropriate to establish the Immortal Alliance in the Southern Chu Kingdom. In my opinion, it would be better to establish it under the jurisdiction of the White Stone Immortal Sect, preferably in the White Stone Mountain area. This way, it will be easier to elect the White Stone Immortal as the alliance leader!"

This is a statement that no one can find fault with. If Zhang Chengdao were to become the leader of the alliance, everyone would be convinced. And if the location of the "Immortal Alliance" were to be near Baishi Mountain, there would be even less of a problem.

but……

How could Zhang Chengdao possibly take on troublesome matters himself!

He immediately found a reason to refuse, saying, "I am not a person of this world, and I should not interfere too much in the flourishing of the immortal path in this world. You should elect the leader of the Immortal Alliance yourselves!"

He had worked so hard to cultivate the Taiyue Sword Sect, guide the Tang Sect, and encourage Tang Xiaoyu to establish the Tianji Sect, all to save himself trouble. Why would he put the cart before the horse and become the leader of the Immortal Alliance, a position with a lot of trivial matters and no benefits?
How could the leader of a superpower possibly compete for the position of head of a non-governmental organization? That's ridiculous!

Zhang Chengdao's words were clearly expected by everyone.

This "immortal" acts according to his own rules and does not interfere excessively in worldly affairs, which is common knowledge.

At this point, it is only natural to refuse any title of leader of the Immortal Alliance.

Just as Qu Zhiweng was hesitating whether to shamelessly recommend himself, Tang Chi unexpectedly dropped a bombshell—

"Hehehe, it was my presumption. In that case, how about we invite Fellow Daoist Chang to serve as the leader of the Immortal Alliance? Although it would be a bother to Fellow Daoist Chang, he can at least give us some guidance so that we can quickly shoulder the responsibilities of the world."

Upon hearing this, Qu Zhiweng couldn't help but twitch the corner of his mouth inwardly.

You old rascal, you really know how to flatter!
So, if you can't get a shot of the master, you'll shoot the apprentice? Have you no shame?
Seeing that Qu Zhiweng remained silent, Tang Yinxiang, under Chang Ping'an's shocked and stunned gaze, chimed in, "What you say is quite right. If we're talking about the Taiyue Sword Sect, we've been cultivating the immortal path for a long time and have some foundation. But sects like yours and mine, which have only been cultivating the immortal path for a short time, are truly powerless. It would be more convincing for you and me to accept Fellow Daoist Chang as the leader of this Immortal Alliance."

Tang Yinxiang first praised the Taiyue Sword Sect, and then put it this way, so Qu Zhiweng had no right to raise any objections.

Moreover, Chang Ping'an had given guidance to the Taiyue Sword Sect for many days, so he wasn't an outsider. As the leader of the Immortal Alliance, who knows who might benefit from his position!
He simply hadn't expected that Tang Yinxiang would not only hold a grand ceremony to establish a sect today, but also propose the "Immortal Alliance," catching the Taiyue Sword Sect completely off guard. They were practically being led by the nose, yet had no room to say anything, which made Qu Zhiweng quite unhappy.

He didn't actually want to be the leader of the Immortal Alliance; in fact, he would be happy if Chang Ping'an became the leader of the Immortal Alliance.

However, this matter is rather frustrating to talk about—a newly established sect has nominated Chang Ping'an as the leader of the Immortal Alliance, so in the future, no matter what, Chang Ping'an should treat him better, right?

In fact, this is itself a way of showing goodwill!

The problem is, aren't you already the fourth disciple of the White Stone Immortal? Does it make a difference whether you show him favor or not?
Your proactive and progressive attitude makes us seem tactless!
Even though he was unhappy inside, Qu Zhiweng still had to speak in a friendly manner: "What the two sect leaders said makes sense. Fellow Daoist Chang is truly deserving of the title of leader of the Immortal Alliance."

It was only at this moment that Chang Ping'an realized what was happening, and hurriedly refused, saying, "No, no, no, I am not worthy of being the leader of the Immortal Alliance!"

After saying that, he looked at Zhang Chengdao for help.

Zhang Chengdao was quite tempted.

Over this long period of time, he has come to believe that he understands himself, his "founding disciple," very well.

As a "chosen one," a template for protagonists in Diaoniang novels, Chang Ping'an's talent is definitely at the top of the ladder, and his abilities are also excellent. At least, he has never made a mistake in the things I arrange for him to do. He truly deserves to be a gold card holder.

However, Chang Ping'an is not without flaws. For example, he can be somewhat naive and impulsive, too soft-hearted, and limited by his background and education, he finds it difficult to make decisions independently.

On several occasions, he was completely fooled by his second disciple, Emperor Ruyan, and believed whatever he was told!

If things continue like this, how will he be able to support the entire White Stone Immortal Sect if he ever has the chance to travel back in time?

Thinking of this, Zhang Chengdao wanted to take the opportunity to let Chang Ping'an gain some experience. After the sect leaders took turns praising Chang Ping'an a few more times, he looked at his adopted disciple and encouraged him, "What the sect leaders said makes some sense. The immortal path is just emerging, and we are all cultivators. We should indeed help each other. It is not unreasonable to establish an 'immortal alliance'. As for Ping'an, whether it is his seniority or his understanding of the immortal path, he is second to none in the world. Being the leader of the immortal alliance would also benefit the development of all sects. I think you can give it a try."

"This……"

With his master's encouragement, Chang Ping'an unconsciously straightened his chest, but he was still somewhat hesitant.

With such poor talent, wouldn't it be inappropriate for me to become the leader of the Immortal Alliance?
My second junior sister was able to cultivate her inner energy in just one night, while it took me several days. If we're talking about seniority, my second junior sister isn't lacking in anything, is she?

Thinking this to himself, he glanced at Murong Ruyan, who stood to the side with a cold expression.

"Junior sister, how about you..."

Chang Ping'an was interrupted by Murong Ruyan with an eye roll before he could finish speaking: "Hmph! They respect you, not me. What's the point of saying that!"

It would be a lie to say that he wasn't jealous. The title of "Leader of the Immortal Alliance" was not much different from that of his target, the Emperor of Bohai Kingdom. Moreover, even if he were to take back Bohai Kingdom in the future, he would at most learn from his master and govern Bohai Kingdom as a "country of immortals." He might even end up under the control of this "Immortal Alliance"!
This foolish senior brother of mine is actually acting like he doesn't want to be in this position...

I'm so angry!

Murong Ruyan grew angrier the more she thought about it, so she glared at Chang Ping'an and added irritably, "As Master's first disciple and the first Foundation Establishment cultivator in the world, you don't even dare to take responsibility for this little thing? Aren't you ashamed? You'll disgrace Master's name if word gets out!"

(End of this chapter)