Chapter 7, Misty Waves

Ji Ruocheng complied and, upon raising his head, saw that the location pointed out by Master Yu Xuan was right next to the desk where Han Yan was. At that moment, his heart suddenly began to race much faster. As Ji Ruocheng approached, he felt a subtle fragrance, reminiscent of musk and orchids, wafting towards him. When he tried to take a deep breath, he found nothing at all. However, as he relaxed, the fragrance returned, lingering like an ethereal sound from a secret realm in the dark night.

The true practitioner Shou Zhen raised an eyebrow in surprise and said, "Is this really the case?! How can there be such petty thieves among our sect? This is unacceptable! I will inform Master Zi Qing about this matter. You need not worry; this does not concern you. Focus on your cultivation and do not overthink it."

It is permissible to speak freely

For the entire morning, Ji Ruocheng felt as if he were floating, as if he were in the clouds or shrouded in mist. Although he sat upright and composed, his gaze unwavering, his mind was filled with the image of the delicate figure beside him, with skin as smooth as snow and a complexion like mist, pale lips, and slender fingers. As for what Master Yuxuan was teaching, he actually did not absorb a single word. The subtle teachings imparted by Yuxuan seemed at this moment like clear spring water washing over stones, leaving no trace behind.

Hanyan softly and gently said: "If Brother Ruchen is a direct disciple of the Ziyang True Person, he holds a high position and is a year older than me. However, within our sect, the seniority does not matter between different lineages. Therefore, addressing Hanyan as 'Brother' is actually an overestimation."

"What’s the matter? Did you forget something? It’s alright, I will go with you to get it," said the Daoist Yunfeng.

A few days later, Ji Ruocheng suddenly realized that many of the various palace techniques had principles of overcoming and being overcome, yet the Xuanming and Beiji palaces had no discernible methods of counteraction. The sword of the Jade Void Real Person from the Xuanming Palace was exceedingly fierce and sharp, and could only be suppressed by the cultivation from the Three Pure Ones' true formula, which was acceptable. However, the Taoyin Real Person from the Beiji Palace was capable of everything and nothing. The Taoyin Real Person meticulously studied various Dao texts, and the disciples in the palace were proficient in all techniques, lacking any significant weaknesses that could be exploited.

Ji Ruocheng could finally confirm that what he had just seen was real and not a dream, and his heart was filled with joy, followed by a wave of panic. The faint clouds and mist seemed so ephemeral, as if they would vanish without a trace with just a gust of mountain wind. Suddenly, he remembered that there was still the lesson from Master Yuxuan tomorrow, and his heart was instantly filled with delight

There are only two exceptions among them. One is Master Ziyang, who is the oldest and has never competed with the various sects, willingly accepting a subordinate position in all matters, which has instead earned him the greatest respect and reputation. The other is Master Taiyin of the North Pole Palace, who has little interest in the arts of celestial swords and even occasionally expresses skepticism towards the Three Pure Ones' true teachings. He usually dedicates himself to studying the Daoist scriptures, wholeheartedly seeking the essence of the Dao, and shows no interest in worldly affairs and disputes.

Ji Ruocheng currently pretended to be confused, wearing a blank expression, seemingly completely unaware of what Master Ziyun was saying. However, a chill surged within him; since Master Ziyun had noticed his changes, it was reasonable to assume that the other masters would also be able to see through it. In the future, he would not only have to be extra cautious but also prepare some excuse to deflect attention.

In the following days, the Real Person Jingxiao imparted to him the Great Five Elements Sword Techniques, each one designed to counter the methods of the Grand Commandant and the Heavenly Gate. The Real Person Yuxu also taught him three techniques of the Liexue Sword, which were aimed at breaking the methods of the Yangming, Heavenly Gate, and Sikong palaces. Additionally, the Real Person Gushouzheng began to instruct him in the usage of the Primordial Hexagrams. However, the Primordial Hexagrams are vast and profound, and it was not possible to teach him how to use them to unravel the methods of his palaces in a short time.

The Master Ziyun took a sip of tea and slowly said, "Ruocheng, in a little over a month, it will be the time for our sect's minor examination. At that time, disciples from various branches will compete according to the realms of the Three Pure Truths, to assess the progress of the disciples over the past year. This annual minor examination is a grand event within our sect, and to excel in the competition is a tremendous honor. However, you have not been in the sect for long; although your true essence has advanced quickly, your application is still not sufficiently refined. Therefore, today we will not discuss the identification of medicinal materials. Instead, I will teach you a shortcut method called the Dan Sha Jue, which embodies the meaning of 'cinnabar gives birth to wood, and lead transforms into gold.'"

After a moment, Master Ziyun finally stroked his beard and smiled, saying: "Ruocheng, have the various masters given you quite a few elixirs? Hehe, I shouldn't be asking this, so you need not answer."

Ji Ruocheng walked briskly along the way, and before long, he could see the suspension bridge in the distance. Daoist Yunfeng was already standing there, waiting to escort him across the bridge. Upon catching sight of Daoist Yunfeng, Ji Ruocheng suddenly felt as if awakening from a dream, softly exclaiming, "Ah".

The next day was the time for Master Shou Zhen to impart his teachings. On this day, Ji Ruochen devoted himself doubly, determined to make up for the time wasted in the previous two days. Master Shou Zhen was extremely pleased, and at the end of the lesson, he stroked his beard and smiled, saying: "Ruochen, I see that your true essence has begun to take shape, and you have gained some understanding of the innate hexagrams. Tomorrow, I will teach you a method for controlling magical treasures. Remember to bring that set of purple crystal divination sticks with you; they are not only for divining good and bad fortune but also a set of powerful magical treasures. The most valuable aspect is that they integrate both offense and defense, requiring little true essence, making them perfectly suited for you. As long as you become proficient with this set of divination sticks, it will not be difficult to surpass the disciples of other sects during the minor examination."

Ji Ruocheng replied ambiguously: "The immortals indeed gave me elixirs and also imparted some incantations for refining the medicinal properties during consumption." Three immortals had given Ji Ruocheng elixirs, but he had only consumed the Longhua Dan from Gu Shouzheng. The spiritual elixirs gifted by Yu Xuan and Tai Wei remained untouched in his room, as refining their medicinal properties was too time-consuming and laborious.

Ji Ruocheng was here deep in thought, while Ziyun Zhenren over there was muttering to himself incessantly, also counting something with his fingers. This action made Ji Ruocheng, who was secretly observing Ziyun Zhenren's movements, break out in a cold sweat.

Ji Ruochen steeled himself and stepped into the study where Master Yu Xuan was imparting his teachings. As soon as he entered and raised his eyes, he was immediately taken aback.

"Ruocheng, the Heavenly Gate Palace of Master Ziyun has never excelled in the art of celestial swords and techniques, and has historically performed poorly in the year-end assessments. However, Master Ziyun's alchemical studies are unparalleled within the sect. The disciples of the Heavenly Gate Palace, leveraging the power of spiritual elixirs, have a significant advantage in their progress during the first ten years of their cultivation. This is indeed a matter of concern. Yet, if the Heavenly Gate Palace can utilize external forces, why can our Sikong Palace not do the same? If we speak of harnessing the power of heaven and earth, the art of celestial talismans should be regarded as paramount. Today, my esteemed uncle will teach you several Heavenly Heart Talismans, each with its own unique application. You need not understand the profound principles behind these talismans; for now, it suffices that you can draw usable celestial talismans."

However, it is now a time of great turmoil

Ji Ruocheng hesitated for half a day before saying: "A few days ago, I suddenly discovered that many small items in my room were missing, including the amethyst divination stick you bestowed upon me. Now, out of the sixty-four divination sticks, only one remains"

Ji Ruocheng focused his mind, struggling against the mountain wind that alternated between fierce and gentle, as he stepped forward along the suspension bridge. However, after just a few steps, he couldn't help but think: "It is said that a person who dies wrongfully may turn into a vengeful spirit seeking retribution. That fat sheep I knocked down with a blunt weapon, will it come to me for revenge? What should I do then? If only my Taoist skills were as profound as those of the Tawei Zhenren, I could unleash the Nine Heavens Thunder Talisman. When it comes looking for me, perhaps I could dispel it with a divine talisman. But alas, I wasted an entire day on my studies! If things come to light in the future, with my shallow Taoist skills, how could I possibly escape from Xixuan Mountain? Ji Ruocheng, oh Ji Ruocheng, the color word is a knife above the head; your life is at stake, yet you still have such idle thoughts and desires! At this rate, how are you any different from those fat sheep? The shopkeeper has long said that deceiving fat sheep can only last for a moment, so one must strike quickly and accurately. If you can't deceive the fat sheep for long, and the real practitioners are all immensely powerful, do you really think you can hide from the world for a lifetime?"

Yunfeng Dao: "The disciple has observed Ji Ruocheng's actions and demeanor for several consecutive days and has finally confirmed that he has indeed perfected the cultivation of the Supreme Clarity and Most Sacred Realm."

The Daoist priest Yunfeng smiled and said: "Ruochen, it is commendable that you diligently cultivate and improve yourself, but you must not be overly hasty. The essence of the Three Purities True Formula lies primarily in understanding; often, mere diligence in practice may not yield effective results."

Ruo Chen agreed and devoted himself to practicing the three Heavenly Heart Righteous Talismans under the guidance of the Taiwei Real Person. As dusk approached, Ji Ruo Chen had already understood that these three talismans were specifically used to break the Heavenly Gate Palace of the Ziyang Real Person, to guard the Yangming Palace of the Shouzheng Real Person, and to access the Taixuan Palace of the Jingxiao Real Person. The Daoist sect does not allow talismans and elixirs in the year-end examination, but they must be self-made by the disciples. The three Heavenly Heart Righteous Talismans are intricate and subtle, possessing immense power; Ji Ruo Chen could not possibly draw them solely relying on his own Daoist skills, and even if he managed to draw them, they would be ineffective. However, there are shortcuts to talisman-making, similar to the techniques of the cauldron; besides the talisman maker's Daoist skills, the power of the talisman heavily depends on the materials used to create it.

As for the Taichang Palace of Ziyang Zhenren and the Danyuan Palace of Yuxuan Zhenren, they have been weak for a long time, and there is no need for special means; most of the palaces have their own methods to secure victory. The Yangming Palace of Ziwei Zhenren was originally also weak, but since there is a Ji Bingxian present, she is basically unmatched among the younger disciples, which naturally allows her to maintain the situation.

"Ruochen, you have arrived," called Yu Xuan Zhenren, pulling Ji Ruochen's mind away from those endlessly misty eyes. She then pointed to the girl and said, "This is my Dan Yuan Palace disciple, Hanyan. Today, we will be discussing the 'Eight Pure Scriptures.' Coincidentally, Hanyan also needs to study this text, so I invited her to join us. Ruochen, please go ahead and take a seat."

After bidding farewell to Master Gu Shouzheng, Ji Ruocheng returned to the Taichang Palace with a restless mind. Even after midnight, the lights in his room remained unextinguished. In the Fengting Pavilion, which was situated at a distance opposite to his residence, Daoist Yunfeng stood motionless for half the night. When the moon reached its zenith, he quietly descended the stairs and made his way to the Mingxin Hall of the Taichang Palace, where Master Ziyang resided.

Before departing, the Master Taiwei bestowed upon Ji Ruocheng ten sheets of yellow paper, a brush made of vermilion, and several talisman pens. This yellow paper originates from Fengqi Mountain, where at the peak, there exists a white concealed purple silkworm that emits a five-colored aura. After condensing into silk, it is crafted into silk paper, which must be left undisturbed in an extremely yin environment for three years to take shape. The vermilion is derived from the heart's blood of the red bird of the East Sea. As for the talisman pens, they are of lesser significance; however, the tip of the brush is made from the fine hair at the tip of a fully formed fox spirit's tail, which undoubtedly possesses spiritual energy. This yellow paper originates from Fengqi Mountain, where at the peak, there exists a white concealed purple silkworm that emits a five-colored aura. After condensing into silk, it is crafted into silk paper, which must be left undisturbed in an extremely yin environment for three years to take shape. The vermilion is derived from the heart's blood of the red bird of the East Sea. As for the talisman pens, they are of lesser significance; however, the tip of the brush is made from the fine hair at the tip of a fully formed fox spirit's tail, which undoubtedly possesses spiritual energy.

The more he thought about it, the more he felt a sense of dread; his legs went weak, and he nearly fell off the suspension bridge. As for the girl, who was like water and smoke, she had long been swept away by an endless wave of fear to a place thousands of miles away.

A chill swept through Ji Ruocheng's heart. He had previously separated several small magical artifacts, most of which were primarily wood-based. It is unclear whether it was due to his initial understanding of the separation technique when he detached Zhang Yinyin's wooden sword, but Ji Ruocheng found it much easier to deal with wood-based magical artifacts than those of other attributes. In fact, the wooden sword that Zhang Yinyin wielded at that time was merely a mundane item, but she infused it with her entire true essence to channel the Yimu sword energy, which transformed that ordinary sword into a magical artifact. Subsequently, the spiritual energy of the purple crystal divination talisman was excessively fierce, tormenting Ji Ruocheng to the brink of death. He had finally managed to integrate these several strands of foreign spiritual energy, but it had altered the meridians of his Xuanqiao. Unexpectedly, the Purple Cloud Real Person had keen eyesight and immediately discerned the numerous changes in Ji Ruocheng.

In such a dreamlike state, time seemed to pass particularly quickly. Ji Ruocheng felt that it had only been a short while since Master Yu Xuan had finished his lecture, yet it was already dusk.

Master Yunfeng said: "I have learned from my disciple. However... you have not been teaching Ruocheng recently. What if, during the major examination, he refuses to enter the gates of my Taichang Palace? What should we do then?"

Master Ziyang smiled and said: "With seven true immortals so dedicated, what need is there for me? As for four years from now... Yunfeng, all matters in the world have their causes and effects. If he does not wish to enter my Taichang Palace, then it cannot be forced; let him be. However, if at this moment, Ruzhen's true essence does not progress well, that is actually a good thing."

Ji Ruochen gritted his teeth and replied, "This... disciple is unsure whether it is appropriate to speak."

Ji Ruocheng trembled all over, and in an instant, cold sweat covered his body. His foot slipped, and he began to fall into the bottomless abyss beneath the iron chain bridge. Daoist Yunfeng flew down at an angle, swiftly caught Ji Ruocheng, and pulled him back onto the bridge.

In the quiet chamber sat a young woman, appearing to be around sixteen or seventeen years of age. Her hair was elegantly styled in a high bun, and she wore a plain long dress, devoid of any makeup or adornments. Her eyebrows were lightly drawn, resembling distant mountains shrouded in mist. Her eyes sparkled with a dreamy allure, akin to the warmth of spring waters.

Ji Ruocheng noticed that Ziyun Zhenren had not deduced the matter of the separation artifact, which initially eased his mind. However, upon hearing the latter part of the statement, his heart lifted once again. He was consuming five-element spiritual energy that was even stronger than elixirs, and he hurriedly questioned himself about what might be amiss. Although the Separation Technique was a celestial technique, its essence was to enter Ji Ruocheng's consciousness autonomously. Yet, he did not recognize a single character from the celestial technique, making it difficult to assert that his understanding encompassed all the profound secrets of the technique. It was even more likely that the Separation Technique was not meant to be used in this manner.

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Ji Ruocheng was slightly taken aback. When she focused her gaze again, she happened to meet the eyes of the other person, and in that moment of eye contact, those eyes, seemingly lost in endless mist, possessed an irresistible allure that instantly captivated Ji Ruocheng, leaving her deeply entranced and unable to extricate herself.

After a long silence, Hanyan finally replied softly: "This matter concerns the rise and fall of the Dan Yuan Palace. Master, rest assured, Hanyan will certainly do my utmost."

The Ziyang Master closed his eyes in contemplation for a moment, then opened them and said: "There are myriad types of people in the world, and thus myriad methods. Although it is the same path of Dao, some find it easy at the beginning and difficult later, while others find it difficult at first and easy later. Moreover, there is a distinction between immortals and mortals; how can we possibly understand the matters of heaven? Do not indulge in wild thoughts; simply focus on doing well what is in front of us."

At first glance, Ji Ruocheng felt that this was a woman entirely formed of water, exuding an indescribable fragility and grace. Upon a closer look, although she sat there composed, her entire being seemed enveloped in a faint mist of water, akin to viewing flowers through a curtain, only perceiving her shadow without discerning her form

It was not until this moment that he realized he had not absorbed a single word of the lesson taught by Master Yuxuan. Now, reflecting on it, his mind was completely blank, with only the subtle expressions and gestures of Hanyan deeply etched in his heart.

Ji Ruocheng stared blankly at Yu Xuan Zhenren and Han Yan as they departed, and then quickened his pace towards Taichang Palace

In the blink of an eye, half a month has passed, and it is once again time for Ji Ruocheng to study under Master Yu Xuan. It was not until the early morning that Ji Ruocheng secretly exclaimed that it was a disaster. It turned out that he had learned too much and too deeply in recent days, completely forgetting the lessons that Master Yu Xuan had imparted a month ago, and he had not practiced at all. As for the Yuyue Seven Circulation Pill, he had not taken a single one, following the instructions of Master Zi Yun. He had no interest in the teachings of Master Yu Xuan. Ji Ruocheng was already pressed for time just to practice the techniques taught by the first lineage master, let alone those from the eight lineage masters. Therefore, he had only practiced the materials provided by Master Yu Xuan on the night of the lesson, merely to get by.

The Purple Cloud True Person stroked his beard and smiled, nodding slightly as he looked up and down at Ji Ruocheng. The Purple Cloud True Person had two long eyebrows, five strands of long beard, a complexion resembling jade, skin radiating a precious glow, and an aura of celestial elegance. His demeanor and grace surpassed that of other ascetic true persons such as Yu Xu and Zi Yang. The Purple Cloud True Person excelled in the Dao of Golden Elixirs and the study of alchemical furnaces, having refined spiritual elixirs that no one in the Dao of Virtue could surpass. The true persons of the various sects of the Dao of Virtue rarely ventured out of the mountains, but this Purple Cloud True Person traveled the world for more than half the year, seeking rare and extraordinary materials.

Ji Ruochen silently lamented, knowing that trouble was brewing as soon as the True Man of Self-Guarding inquired about the Amethyst Divination. At this point, the situation had escalated, and he had no choice but to brace himself and see it through to the end

After spending a considerable amount of time with the Eight Realms of True Persons, Ji Ruocheng gradually understood the intricacies involved. It turned out that the Ziyun True Person had a passion for alchemy since his youth. Now, having achieved great mastery in his Dao, he has made remarkable accomplishments in the realm of Golden Elixirs, surpassing what previous generations have achieved. However, the path of the Golden Elixir differs from the Three Pure Ones' scriptures. The Three Pure Ones' scriptures focus on internal cultivation, emphasizing the successful formation of the inner elixir, nurturing for a hundred days, and ultimately forming the Golden Infant, which marks the beginning of the journey on the great Dao. In contrast, the path of the Golden Elixir involves the refinement of external elixirs, utilizing true fire from the cauldron and various rare materials, all of which are indispensable. At the level of the Golden Elixir that the Ziyun True Person has reached, his daily concern is how to find these rare materials.

At this time the next day, Ji Ruocheng sat in this place again, but this time he was listening to the teachings of Master Taiwei

The true master Shou Zhen immediately noticed that Ji Ruocheng's demeanor was unusual and asked, "What is it, Ruocheng? Is there something troubling you?"

Although the various true immortals were very eager, Ji Ruocheng was also putting in his utmost effort, yet he had no interest in the idea of excelling in the minor examinations. At this moment, he still did not understand what exactly a fallen immortal was, nor what benefits it could bring to the true immortals of the Moral Sect. Naturally, he was unwilling to create unnecessary trouble or draw attention to himself. Moreover, a tall tree catches the wind; the more prominent he became, the more likely he was to attract attention, and the less likely it was for the matter of the fallen immortal to remain undiscovered.

The plump sheep, exuding an otherworldly aura and appearing extraordinary, seemed to mock him silently from the shadows, and then let out a loud cry: "Little thief! Return my life!"

Ji Ruocheng kept watching the figures of Master Yu Xuan and Hanyan disappear into the twilight, and only then did he turn to walk towards the suspension bridge leading to the Taichang Palace. After taking just two steps, he suddenly felt as if waking from a dream, and inwardly gasped in surprise, realizing that he had squandered an entire day. In his panic, he cast Hanyan aside, disregarding her completely.

The Master Ziyun smiled slightly while stroking his beard and praised, "Ruochen, your comprehension is indeed remarkable. It is just as you say. This Dan Sha Jue is something I have recently comprehended from the 'Jade Emperor's Treasure Book' over the past month. The Daoist techniques of the Dan Yuan Palace are superficial and lack substance. If you encounter a disciple of the Dan Yuan Palace, simply employ the Dan Sha Jue to solidify and break through the superficiality. Even if the opponent's cultivation is slightly higher than yours, you will still find it not difficult to achieve victory."

Ji Ruochen quickly replied, "Yes," and suddenly remembered something, asking, "The Jade Xuan Zhenren once bestowed a vial of Jade Liquid Seven Circulation Pills, saying that it could assist in the cultivation of the Three Pure True Formula. He instructed me to take it regularly over the next few days. I am unsure whether I should take these Jade Liquid Seven Circulation Pills or not"

After the current Master Ziyun transmitted the incantation, he meticulously clarified doubts and questions for Ji Ruocheng until the latter had a general understanding. This Dan Sha Jue originates from the "Jade Emperor's Treasure Book"; it is not a method for enhancing true essence, but rather a technique for utilizing true essence. Therefore, it can be mastered in less than a month. Once this technique is employed, countless small Dan Sha formed from true essence will appear around the body, and the entire body will become as hard as heavy armor, making it a remarkable technique suitable for both offense and defense.

Oh? Master Ziyang raised his head and stroked his beard, smiling as he said: "Speaking of which, it has been over half a month since I last saw Ruocheng. I did not expect his progress to be so rapid. Ruocheng joined my Daode Sect in September, and it took him just over four months to reach the Taiqing Holy Realm, which is quite impressive."

What should we do then?" Ji Ruocheng asked anxiously. After hearing the comforting words of Daoist Ziyun, Ji Ruocheng, who harbored ulterior motives, felt even more apprehensive. The elixirs themselves would not conflict with one another, but the relationship between spiritual energy and elixirs was more complicated.

Ji Ruocheng was taken aback, cold sweat immediately gushing out like a spring. The amethyst divination slip had already been unintentionally severed by his palm, swallowing the spiritual energy within. How could he possibly find another one just like it now

Yunfeng Daoist said: "Master, he has taken the Longhua Pill from Shouzheng Zhenren and the Huangting Riyue Pill from Ziyun Zhenren, which greatly benefits his cultivation, hence his progress. Nevertheless, he still cannot compare to Mingyun and Li Xuanzhen, and Ji Bingxian, who, without any external assistance, broke through to the Ta Qing Zhi Sheng realm in just one month, which is even more remarkable. Therefore, I believe that Ruchen's advancement in true essence does not quite match his quality as a fallen immortal. Could there be some issue with this?"

Ah, no, I just remembered that there is still one assignment I haven't completed. Senior Yunfeng, let's return to Taichang Palace now

Before departing, Master Ziyun presented him with a Heart Harmony Pill that could strengthen the meridians, and only then did he leave

Yun Feng was taken aback and asked, "What is the reason for this?"

Master Yu Xuan sighed and said, "Your willingness to undertake this is already commendable. Han Yan, I understand that this matter is quite difficult for you, but you are the most outstanding disciple in my palace, and only you are truly suitable for this task. Moreover, what we cultivators seek in our lifetime is nothing but the attainment of the Great Dao. If you are destined to connect with Ruo Chen, then achieving success in the Great Dao in the future will naturally not be difficult. This... can be considered a small compensation for you. After returning to the palace, make sure to rest well, as you have another day of studies tomorrow."

Whenever the elixirs of the Dan Yuan Palace are mentioned, Master Ziyun becomes invigorated, passionately refuting the Daoist practices of Master Yuxuan. Master Ziyun's rebuttals are not mere empty words; with his profound understanding of Dao, he cites scriptures and traces back to the origins, each statement reflecting genuine insight. This is something that Ji Ruocheng should contemplate for several days, as it will help him avoid many detours in his future Daoist cultivation. Thus, although he tends to be verbose, Ji Ruocheng listens intently each time, fearing he might miss a single word. However, this time, Master Ziyun did not engage in his usual lengthy discourse; he spoke only for the duration of a single incense stick before concluding, which left Ji Ruocheng, who was listening intently, quite surprised.

Ji Ruocheng was at a loss for words, his mind suddenly clouded, and after stammering for a long time, he still did not know how to respond. Fortunately, Master Yuxuan cleared his throat and began the lecture, which somewhat alleviated his embarrassment

In the distance, Master Yu Xuan lightly waved the whisk in his hand, revealing a faint smile, and said: "Look at how much Ji Ruocheng is interested in you; I truly did not expect it to go so smoothly. However, Hanyan, you must not take this lightly in the future, lest all your previous efforts go to waste"

Upon hearing the name of Master Yu Xuan, Master Zi Yun's expression immediately turned somewhat grim. He let out a heavy snort and said, "The Dan Yuan Palace has nothing that is not studied, yet nothing is mastered; it has been this way for hundreds of years. What does that little brat Yu Xuan know about alchemical cauldrons? Not to mention the true path of Golden Elixirs! This Jade Liquid Seven Circulation Pill is the ancestral formula of the Dan Yuan Palace, and she treats it as a treasure, but its efficacy is far inferior to that of Master Shou Zhen's Longhua Pill! I told her over a decade ago to use the Xuan Huo Feather Serpent in her possession as a medicinal guide and to reforge this batch of Jade Liquid Seven Circulation Pills; the efficacy could triple, turning an ordinary product into a celestial pill! But she simply would not listen!"

In the Dan Yuan Palace, there are many rare treasures and extraordinary beasts, all of which, in the eyes of the Ziyun True Person, are excellent materials suitable for entering the alchemical furnace. It is said that he once requested spiritual beasts from the Yuxuan True Person, but was resolutely refused. Subsequently, the Ziyun True Person sought her methods for raising a certain type of spiritual creature, only to be firmly rejected again by the Yuxuan True Person. From then on, the Heavenly Pass Palace, led by the Ziyun True Person, developed a rift with the Dan Yuan Palace.

The Ziyang Master was not resting in meditation; instead, he was engrossed in reading a Taoist classic under the lamp, thoroughly enjoying it. Daoist Yunfeng entered quietly, bowed, and said: "Master..."

Ji Ruocheng immediately stood up and saluted, saying: "Thank you, Master Ziyun, for your praise"

With these three treasures in hand, Ji Ruocheng draws talismans and creates charms, and their effects are not merely multiplied

The Master Ziyun chuckled and said: "There is no need for you to panic; these elixirs will at least do you no harm. The alchemical techniques of our sect's various palaces ultimately stem from the same source. Although there are distinctions in quality and refinement, they all have their merits. However, at this moment, your internal yin and yang are in disarray, and the five elements are out of balance. While this does not harm your body, it is akin to a sword straying from its path; it is ultimately not the right way. As a result, although your true essence is strong, the effectiveness you can achieve may only be about sixty to seventy percent. If you seek to rush, you will not succeed."

In the blink of an eye, it is dusk again

Ji Ruocheng nodded in agreement, yet felt a deep sense of confusion within. He could not understand why he was so captivated by that woman, who seemed like a wisp of smoke in the water, to the point of neglecting his studies, which he had always focused on. The moment he thought of his neglected studies, Ji Ruocheng suddenly remembered Luo Feng

"Wait a moment..." Ziyang Zhenren waved his hand, stopping Daoren Yunfeng, and shook his head as he recited: "I am not a sage; I have learned and obtained it. Therefore, I seek the Dao, and I do not neglect any of it. All scriptures and techniques reside solely in the heart and will. Well said, well said. Yunfeng, do you have something to discuss?"

The Jade Xuan Zhenren had long been waiting in the meditation hall. According to the usual practice, Ji Ruocheng always arrived a quarter of an hour early, and today was no exception. Normally, all the Zhenren would arrive punctually, but for some unknown reason, the Jade Xuan Zhenren arrived even earlier than him today

After paying his respects to Master Yu Xuan, Ji Ruocheng reluctantly and slowly exited the meditation hall. Even at this moment, he was still somewhat uncertain whether the woman, who seemed to be shrouded in the mist of the river waves, was real or merely a fleeting dream of spring.

Ji https : / / www.hetushu .com .com Ruochen suddenly stopped, turning to look back. The Jade Xuan Zhenren was slowly walking away in the distance, and behind her, the woman was always surrounded by faint wisps of smoke at her feet, as if she were walking on air, gradually moving further away. If it is not the mist, then who could it be

Ziyun Zhenren said: "There is no need for you to panic. After I return, I will set up the furnace and cauldron to refine a few Huangting Sun and Moon Pills. You should take one dose every seven days, and after taking three pills, the yin and yang within your body will naturally harmonize. However, from now on, you must not take any pills given to you by other immortals without first consulting me, even if you wish to take them."

He had just taken his seat when Han Yan slightly turned his head, his voice flowing like the ripples on the river, twisting and turning, as he said: "I have met you, Brother Ruochen."

At this moment, Ji Ruocheng had dabbled in the strengths of various sects, yet he felt that there was something amiss with the Dan Sha Jue. He could not quite articulate what was wrong. After pondering for a moment, he suddenly realized: "I understand now, this Dan Sha Jue is the most effective method for cracking the Dan Yuan Palace's Dao techniques!" Only after speaking out did he feel it was somewhat inappropriate, and he quickly raised his eyes to look at Ziyun Zhenren.

The Ziyang True Person picked up the Daoist scriptures again and said: "You should go back and think it over carefully. When you have understood it clearly, your cultivation will naturally improve."

As Ji Ruocheng sat down, Hanyan greeted him with a bow, just as she had the day before. In that moment of her bending down and lowering her head, Ji Ruocheng suddenly felt the water rippling before him, the mist swirling, obscuring her features. Faintly, a trace of a subtle fragrance wafted in, intertwining and permeating his heart and lungs, causing his unyielding heart to race wildly once more.

In the past ten days, the profound and mysterious techniques of the various sects have greatly broadened Ji Ruocheng's horizons. The masters of each sect have exhausted their thoughts, using the meager true essence derived from his recently attained Supreme Clarity realm as a foundation, and have managed to conjure countless wondrous applications, which Ji Ruocheng had never even dreamed of before. However, after these ten days, Ji Ruocheng has finally come to understand that there is much open and covert rivalry among the masters of the various sects, contrary to the harmonious atmosphere he had previously perceived.

Ziyun Zhenren stared at Ji Ruocheng for a long while, furrowing his brow and pondering: "Ruocheng, although your true essence is strong at this moment, the five elements are in chaos, with wood being particularly dominant. Moreover, the yin and yang are unbalanced; during the last lesson, your meridians were still predominantly yin and cold, yet in just a few days, they have shifted to a yang state, now exhibiting the nature of thunder and fire. This is truly strange..."

The next day, Master Yu Xuan continued his teachings. Ji Ruocheng entered the study with a slight sense of unease. He had not paid attention to what Master Yu Xuan had lectured on the previous day, so he had spent the entire night diligently practicing the Taiqing True Formula. Fortunately, Master Yu Xuan did not inquire about the details of his studies; he simply had Ji Ruocheng sit beside Han Yan and began to impart his teachings once again.

"Ruochen, it seems that you have gained quite a lot from your seven days of quiet cultivation, having actually broken through to the first realm of the Supreme Clarity. For ordinary disciples, it usually takes at least a year to pass this foundational stage. You have only taken about half a year, quite impressive."

This time, Ji Ruocheng still had a trace of clarity in his mind. He hurriedly returned a salute, managing to avoid any breach of etiquette. After Hanyan performed this salute, she turned around, fully focused on listening to Master Yuxuan's teachings, no longer casting a glance in this direction. However, Ji Ruocheng could not calm himself down no matter what. Although he was no longer completely oblivious to what Master Yuxuan was saying, as he had been the previous day, he found himself stealing glances at Hanyan every so often. He sat upright, not daring to look too much, but whenever he caught a glimpse of her sleeve or a hint of her jade-like fingers in his peripheral vision, his heart would race. Yet, Ji Ruocheng could not calm himself down no matter what. Although he was no longer completely oblivious to what Master Yuxuan was saying, as he had been the previous day, he found himself stealing glances at Hanyan every so often. He sat upright, not daring to look too much, but whenever he caught a glimpse of her sleeve or a hint of her jade-like fingers in his peripheral vision, his heart would race.

Ji Ruocheng made every effort to remain composed, yet there was still a hint of peculiarity in his expression. Ziyun Zhenren was calm and humble, exuding an ethereal aura, and usually displayed an excellent demeanor. However, upon mentioning the Dan Yuan Palace's Yu Xuan Zhenren, he seemed to transform into a different person, his tone sharp and his words cutting, completely losing his composure.

Upon hearing this, Ruo Chen immediately understood that it was the intention of Master Ziyun to cultivate him. This technique, which specifically targets the methods of other sects, is not considered orthodox. However, it is particularly suitable for the year-end assessments, and it is useful when there is a foundation. Mastering these methods of utilizing true essence will greatly benefit the cultivation of the Taiqing True Formula. As for why this secret technique specifically targets the methods of the Dan Yuan Palace, there is no need to delve into it.

Ji Ruocheng felt a surge of blood rushing to his head, leaving him momentarily dazed and unable to look at her face hidden behind the rippling water and mist. In his fluster, he lowered his gaze, fixating intently on the zitan wood table, and hurriedly said: "In our sect, the first to enter is the elder. This... Hanyan, you..."

The Ziyun Master nodded and said, "This is it. I can only deduce that you have taken the Longhua Pill from Master Gu Shouzheng. As for the other pills, I cannot deduce anything further. Ha! He really is generous! Hmph, but these fellows are simply being reckless! Can any pill be taken indiscriminately? Without seeking the harmony of the five elements and yin-yang, without considering the essence of the pill's ingredients, taking a multitude of pills all at once has led you to your current state."