Chapter 2, the Daoist title "Phlegm Basin"

Alright, we are all brothers, so why all the formalities? By the way, you may not know this yet, but yesterday the senior brother has already entered seclusion. If he can successfully break through to the next level this time, we will have to call him Master Uncle from now on. I really envy him!

After listening to Ling Tongzi's narration, Dao Ming Zhenren slightly nodded, pinched his chubby chin, and said: "Since you have passed the test, from today onwards, you are a fifth-generation disciple of Lianyun Sect"

Ling Tongzi said: "Alright, once Ling Yuzi returns, we will go back to Moyun Peak to pay our respects to your master’s ancestor, and then formally accept you into the sect. Only the third-generation disciples of our Lianyun Sect, that is, those of your master’s generation, have the authority to accept disciples into the sect. Now that we have some free time, let me tell you about the situation of our Lianyun Sect. We are one of the seven major sects in the world, with substantial strength. The Seventy-Two Peaks of the Lianyun Mountain Range serve as our stronghold. Usually, due to the ancient immortal formation left by the Lianyun Ancestor, outsiders are completely unable to enter the Seventy-Two Peaks, so they only know of Lianyun Mountain but are unaware that there are actually seventy-two peaks within the mountain range."

Zhang Hao said with a bitter smile: "My grand ambition is merely to seek a master and learn the craft, yet I do not know what the purpose of learning the craft is."

Then, I should call you Master Ling Tongzi or Master Liu. Douya, he ... ...

After grooming, Hai Long seemed like a different person. Although his small eyes appeared somewhat awkward, he could still be considered a handsome child. Dressed in an oversized Daoist robe, he resembled a young Daoist apprentice, which gave him a somewhat comical appearance. Ling Tongzi said: "Hai Long, when you meet your master later, you must be careful with your words. Your master dislikes impolite disciples the most."

Upon hearing this, Hailong hurriedly interrupted, "Wait a moment, Master Liu, do we still need to have children after reaching a certain level of cultivation?"

Ling Tongzi was taken aback and thought, I didn't use much force! Could it be that I accidentally broke it? He hurriedly asked, "Hailong, what happened to you?"

Ling Tongzi casually waved his hand and smiled, saying: "Do not be in a hurry to become my disciples; I have something to ask you."

For the second time experiencing the sensation of soaring through the clouds, Hai Long had already adapted somewhat. However, the air in the mountains was truly too cold, and with only a single garment on, how could he withstand it? After just flying over a peak, he was already shivering all over, and his lips had turned somewhat purple. Fortunately, Ling Tongzi noticed in time and used his own vital energy to protect him; otherwise, it is likely that before reaching Dao Ming Zhenren's Mo Yun Peak, Hai Long would have frozen into a block of ice.

"Sixth Junior Brother, your results this time are quite impressive! The child you are holding is the disciple we retrieved this time, right? It has been twenty years, and this is the first time. Let me take a look." With a grasp of his right hand into the void, as if something was entangled, the body of the Sea Dragon lightly floated into Lingzhizi's hands. With a flickering green light on his hands, Lingzhizi continuously probed the body of the Sea Dragon with his own magical power.

Hailong suddenly froze, touching the spot on his head that had been struck by Ling Tongzi, a hint of sorrow reflected in his eyes

Ling Tongzi, with a hint of displeasure, tapped the head of the sea dragon and said, "You young man, respect for your teacher should come from the heart; how can it be merely a facade? Your ancestral master's magical powers and cultivation are profound, and he can see at a glance whether your respect is genuine or not"

Hailong looked at Zhang Hao, who had a sorrowful expression, shook his head, and said: "No, Douya, I will go back with you. We can come together again when the opportunity arises."

"Bean Sprout!" Hai Long shouted in despair. From mid-air, Zhang Hao's voice echoed, "Brother, wait for me! I will definitely come to find you."

Zhang Hao and Hai Long knelt down together and said in unison: "Disciples Zhang Hao (Hai Long) pay their respects to the four masters"

As Ling Yuzi turned his eye pearl, he adopted an air of celestial grace and approached Zhang Hao, saying: "Little brother, there is no need for any provisions. How about this: I will personally escort you back. With my flying sword, it will take at most an hour to get you home." After speaking, without waiting for Hai Long and Zhang Hao to object, he swiftly embraced Zhang Hao and urged his magical sword, transforming into a streak of flowing light and departing.

The top of the Moya Cave is completely open, with sunlight streaming down from the cave's ceiling, casting a gentle glow on the flowers and grass below. Looking up, one cannot help but feel a sense of being confined to a well, observing the sky. The cave covers an area of approximately one thousand square meters, with a small stone house at the front. The stone door is closed, designed in a very ordinary style, resembling a natural formation. Although the environment here is quite serene, it is entirely different from what Hai Long had imagined. He had thought that someone of his master’s stature would surely reside in a grand palace, yet everything turned out to be so simple.

Hailong nodded and said, "My parents died when I was young, and as long as I can feed myself, the whole family won't go hungry, as long as the immortal master provides meals." He paused for a moment, turned to Zhang Hao beside him, and asked, "But, Douya, what about your parents?"

A powerful force lifted him up, and the expressions of Hai Long and Zhang Hao became even more respectful. Zhang Hao said, "Master, please ask."

"With the ability to see a thousand miles, heed my command, open the heavenly sight." A blue light suddenly flashed brightly as Ling Tongzi channeled all his magical power, expanding the heavenly sight technique to the limit he could bear. A golden light appeared in his blue eyes, gazing in the direction where Ling Yuzi had departed. Ling Zhi Zi and Ling Yan Zi, sharing a mutual understanding, floated down behind Ling Tongzi, forming hand seals to channel their own magical power into him, continuously enhancing the effectiveness of the heavenly sight technique.

With a soft creak, the stone door opened. A tall figure stepped out. Hai Long rubbed his eyes and looked closely, knowing that the person before him must be his ancestral master. Dao Ming Zhen Ren stood over seven feet tall, with a somewhat corpulent figure, appearing to be in his thirties. His eyes were even smaller than Hai Long's, and against the backdrop of his flesh, it was indeed difficult to discern the two narrow gaps unless one looked closely. In Hai Long's view, aside from the prominently protruding belly, Dao Ming Zhen Ren did not seem much different from an ordinary person.

Dao Ming Zhenren's expression suddenly became somewhat peculiar, and two beams of light shot from his small, not very large eyes. He said lightly, "Kid, are you cursing me in your heart?"

Zhang Hao said: "We brothers come from a small village a hundred miles away from Lianyun Mountain. A few years ago, we heard that one could seek a master among the immortals here to learn skills, so we thought we would try our luck. As for why we want to seek a master to learn..." He scratched his head and looked at Hai Long for help. Hai Long smiled wryly and said: "Don't look at me; I'm just here to ensure I can have sweet potatoes for my meals. Don't you have great ambitions? Now that you've met the immortal master, why not speak up quickly?"

Tears have already dampened the eyes of the sea dragon, and a haze envelops his vision. He murmurs, "Bean sprout, bean sprout, you must come early!"

"Yes, you may bring the child in," a voice that sounded somewhat weary echoed from within the cave.

Ling Yuzi nodded and said, "It was just to send him home that I almost couldn't make it back. Thank you, Sixth Senior Brother, Eighth Senior Brother, and Ninth Senior Brother." Ling Tongzi shook his head helplessly and said, "You! After so many years of cultivation, you still haven't changed your impulsive nature. Fortunately, you returned in time; if the second layer of the immortal formation's restrictions had been activated, we would have been helpless. Let's go, we are heading back to the mountain. Hailong, come, I will carry you." As soon as he finished speaking, four flying swords, propelled by azure light, pierced through the surrounding clouds and headed deep into the Lianyun Mountain Range.

Hailong's mind had already been drawn to Ling Tongzi, and he asked in confusion, "If I were to directly take the second-generation disciples as my masters, wouldn't I then become the uncle of several immortal masters?"

Ling Tongzi smiled and said, "You are truly sentimental, my child. Alright, stop overthinking. We have arrived." While speaking, Ling Tongzi and the other three had already brought the Sea Dragon to the entrance of the Mo Yun Cave at the peak of Mo Yun Mountain. This is precisely where Dao Ming Zhenren practiced.

Dao Ming raised his eyebrows, waved his large sleeves, and a surge of pure energy lifted the five individuals. "Enough, there’s no need for so many formalities," he said. He scrutinized Hai Long and inquired, "Are you one of the five disciples collected by Ling Tong? Ling Tong! Does he truly meet the criteria?"

"A thousand, a thousand years? This, this duration is too long, isn't it? Can a person live that long?" Zhang Hao's eyes were filled with disbelief

Ling Yuzi stuck out his tongue and said, "I didn't expect Second Senior Brother to be so fearsome when he gets angry. It seems he really values the Sea Dragon; this kid is truly fortunate! The Peiyuan Pill refined by Second Senior Brother is perfect for someone like him who is just starting on the path."

Zhang Hao wore a look of dejection, silently nodded, and said: "I, I want to go home. Master Immortal, could you give me some provisions to help me return home? Although I am usually quite lazy, I cannot let my parents be sad because of my absence!" He turned his gaze to Hai Long and said sadly: "Brother Long, you should cultivate with the few Immortal Masters. You have no family, only me as a friend. After my parents pass away, I will definitely come back here to find you."

Hailong chuckled and said, "Master Liu, rest assured, I am the smartest person in the village. It's just a matter of politeness; I can certainly put on a show."

Ling Tongzi smiled and said: "Here is the Earth Spirit Peak, one of the twelve outermost peaks of the Seventy-Two Peaks of Lianyun. We usually do not come here, so do not be surprised; you will understand in due time. The seven major sects in the world are the Brahma Heart Sect, the Lotus Sect, the Asking Heaven School, the Round Moon School, the Thousand Blessings Valley, the Five Lights Immortal, and our Lianyun Sect. Among them, the Brahma Heart Sect and the Lotus Sect practice Buddhism, while the other five sects, including ours, practice immortality. Our Lianyun Sect has the fewest disciples, with only five generations. In fact, it should be considered four generations; to commemorate the founder of Lianyun, our sect, including the sect leader, has a maximum generation of second-generation disciples. The lowest generation consists of fifth-generation disciples. Take you for example; upon entering our sect, you are a fifth-generation disciple. However, once your cultivation reaches a certain level, you can be promoted to a fourth-generation disciple, which is our current realm. As your cultivation improves, you may eventually rise to the position of a second-generation disciple. Strength represents status. The reason our founder established this system is to encourage lower-generation disciples to diligently cultivate."

Upon hearing Ling Yuzi's words, Ling Zhizi's expression suddenly changed, and he angrily rebuked, "Nonsense." An inexplicable pressure arose, and in that moment, before the four of them, this second senior brother appeared so imposing. Having known each other for several decades, it was the first time they had seen Ling Zhizi so furious, and they were immediately frightened into lowering their heads

Ling Tongzi shook his head helplessly and thought to himself: My junior disciple is indeed quite anxious. He quickly sent a message, urging: "Ling Yuzi, hurry back, the immortal formation will soon close."

The three Ling Tongzi fell down, and Ling Zhi Zi forced out a faint smile, saying: "The Dao胎 and the mortal胎 are not the same. Speaking of which, it should be a mysterious power that we cultivate ourselves."

The four Ling Tongzi hurriedly responded and led Hai Long into the cave. Upon entering, the first thing that caught Hai Long's eye was a vast expanse of flowers and plants. The variously colored small flowers continuously emitted faint, refreshing fragrances that were invigorating. Instantly, Hai Long felt a surge of energy. Among them were several crystal-clear fruits, adorned with droplets of dew, which made Hai Long display an expression of longing and drooling.

"Junior Brother Liu, you have returned," said a young man who appeared to be in his twenties, standing before the four members of Ling Tongzi. He was dressed in a moon-white long robe that concealed his handsome figure, and a faint smile adorned his attractive face. Upon seeing his arrival, the four members of Ling Tongzi hurriedly bowed and greeted, "Second Senior Brother."

Hailong scratched his head and said, "Master Liu, you speak too quickly; I can't understand anything!" Although he had studied with Zhang Hao for several years, most of his thoughts were focused on chopping wood and other tasks. While he recognized quite a few characters, his comprehension of written language was still quite average.

Suddenly, Hai Long was astonished to discover that the clouds and mist outside the cliff ahead were swirling violently, rotating like a vortex. In the center of the vortex, a passageway with a diameter of only one meter appeared. Two beams of light flashed in at an indescribable speed, gently landing on the peak. Hai Long focused his gaze and was instantly filled with joy, as it was indeed the flying swords of Ling Yuzi and Ling Tongzi returning together.

Ling Yanzi smiled and said: "You are not wrong in your thinking. Do you believe that the second-generation patriarchs accept disciples so easily? Without five hundred years of cultivation, it is difficult to even meet the nine patriarchs. Currently, there are a total of nine highest second-generation patriarchs, and you must remember this clearly. They are respectively the master of Jietian Peak, who is also the leader of our Lianyun Sect, and we refer to him by the peak's name, respectfully calling him Jietian Daozun. We, the lower-generation disciples, must address him as patriarch. The others are Zhiyun Peak's master, Zhiyun Daozun; Piaomiao Peak's master, Piaomiao Daozun; Dengxian Peak's master, Dengxian Daozun; and Tianshi Peak's master, Tianshi Daozun, who is also our ancestral master and your great ancestral master; Wujiji Peak's master, Wujiji Daozun; Shudi Peak's master, Shudi Daozun; Mieyan Peak's master, Mieyan Daozun; and Zhishui Peak's master, Zhishui Daozun, and Tushu Daozun. You are a fifth-generation disciple, and you should belong to the Tan generation. My Dao name is Lingtongzi, and you may address me as Master Liu. This is your Master Ba, Lingzhizi, and your Master Jiu, Lingyanzi. As a disciple of your ancestral master Daoming Zhenren, you may address all of them as masters."

Ling Zhizi fixed his intense gaze on the four junior disciples and said in a deep voice: "As cultivators, you should understand the importance of cultivating one's state of mind. Since you have taken this child as your disciple, you must do your utmost to teach him well. If your master had approached your training with the same attitude when he accepted you, would you have achieved what you have today? Yes, he is a disciple of the fifth generation, and the training of a servant is indeed important, but in your hearts, you should not regard him as merely a servant. Ling Tongzi, the task of teaching this child the fundamental Daoist techniques will be entrusted to you. If you cannot help him reach the level of Fuhu within ten years, do not come to acknowledge me as your second senior brother." After saying this, Ling Zhizi's expression softened somewhat, and he continued gently: "The master is very particular about cleanliness. Take this child to the Ganlu Spring to wash up, and then change his clothes. I will return first. Sixth junior brother, after the master formally accepts him as a disciple, come to me to collect a Peiyuan Pill to help this child eliminate impurities from his body." A flash of blue light passed, and Ling Zhizi rode his flying sword away gracefully, leaving the four disciples of Ling Tongzi staring at each other in confusion at the waist of Moyun Peak.

Ling Tongzi smiled and said: "First, I must tell you that we are not immortals, but merely practitioners of the Dao. Where do you come from, and why do you wish to take us as your teachers?"

Zhang Hao is just a child. This time, he brought Hai Long along simply out of a momentary impulse, without considering much. Upon hearing Ling Tongzi's words, he was immediately troubled. He is the only son in his family; if he doesn't return, who will take care of his parents in the future? Pouting, he said, "Master, is it possible that after learning from you for a few years, I still won't be able to finish learning?"

Listening to Ling Tongzi's words, the sea dragon felt as if he were hearing a celestial scripture. How could an ordinary child like him, who had never seen the world, possibly understand so much?

Hailong glanced at Ling Tongzi and silently nodded

The Lingzhi and Lingyan each performed their respective incantations, simultaneously infusing their own magical power into the Aurora Sword before them. Under the urging of Ling Tongzi, the Aurora Sword emitted a brilliant blue light and, in an instant, vanished into the mist. Their task was to light a guiding lamp for their junior brother amidst the foundational barrier of the celestial formation that was just beginning to take shape.

Time passed second by second, and due to the excessive use of the Daoist techniques, the three disciples of Ling Tongzi were trembling slightly, clearly nearing their limits

At that moment, the mist at the waist of the peak suddenly surged upward in large swathes, constantly shifting in various hues of vapor. An invisible pressure left the sea dragon, who was about to speak, stunned in surprise

Ling Yanzi signaled to Ling Tongzi, who immediately understood. He said to Hai Long and Zhang Hao: "Decades pass in the blink of an eye, Hai Long, you should heed Zhang Hao's words. Zhang Hao, you need not be overly sorrowful. This time, we will not let your visit be in vain; this is the most fundamental cultivation method of our Lianyun Sect. After you return, you can practice it on your own. Once you have attended to your parents' passing, you may return to our sect, and at that time, Hai Long can personally guide you in your continued cultivation." As he spoke, he handed a small booklet to Zhang Hao. How could they allow both Hai Long and Zhang Hao to leave now? Although due to sect rules, they could not take in someone like Zhang Hao, for the sake of having a fifth-generation disciple, they would naturally do their utmost to retain Hai Long.

The expression on Hai Long's face changed suddenly, not because Ling Tongzi had struck him painfully. Just now, Ling Tongzi's actions were reminiscent of how he used to hit Zhang Hao, which made him involuntarily recall the time spent with his good brother. Shaking his head, he said: "Master Liu, I am fine. I was just thinking of Dou Ya'er"

A sudden spasm coursed through their bodies, and Hai Long and Zhang Hao exhaled deeply, gradually awakening from their slumber. Everything that had transpired earlier felt as if it were a dream. Looking at the four members of Ling Tong Zi before them, they instinctively made the same gesture, pinching their own thighs with force. "Ouch, ouch," two cries of pain rang out, and under the intense pain in their thighs, they realized they were not dreaming. Their comical display immediately caused the four members of Ling Tong Zi to burst into laughter once more.

Hailong hesitated. Although following these few immortal masters in front of him might ensure that he would be well-fed in the future, how could he bear to part with Zhang Hao, with whom he had grown up since childhood?

Feeling the warm energy emanating from Ling Tongzi, a strange sensation suddenly arose in Hai Long's heart. Although he was flying in mid-air, at that moment, he was filled with a sense of security. Unbeknownst to him, wrapped in Ling Tongzi's profound magical power, he gradually drifted into slumber

After a while, the laughter subsided. Ling Tongzi recited the incantation, "Heaven and Earth are boundless, the Dao of the Universe, the Pure Heart Mantra, rise with my heart." A ball of green light appeared at the tip of his right index finger, and he pointed into the void twice. Instantly, two beams of green light shot forth, penetrating the foreheads of Hai Long and Zhang Hao.

The young man referred to as the second senior brother by the four disciples of Ling Tongzi is Ling Zhi Zi. Although he appears very young on the surface, he is already over one hundred and fifty years old. It is only because he has attained the胎成境界 that he can maintain his youthful appearance. Among the eleven disciples of Dao Ming Zhen Ren, his cultivation is second only to that of the eldest disciple, Ling Xiu Zi. Ling Zhi Zi has never been possessive about his knowledge; he shares any new insights he gains regarding Daoist principles with his junior brothers, becoming an unofficial mentor to these ordinary disciples. The respect that the junior brothers have for him even surpasses that which they hold for the eldest brother, Ling Xiu Zi.

Hailong hurriedly knelt down on the ground and said, "Thank you, Master Ancestor, for taking me in." Yet, in his heart, he cursed, "You old fat man, what are you so proud of? Not at all friendly, putting on such a stinky air.

Ling Tongzi walked up to Hai Long, placed a hand on his shoulder, and said: "Hai Long, you need not be too sorrowful. In the eyes of us cultivators, several decades are but a fleeting moment. In order to help your brothers in the future, you must also cultivate diligently from now on, striving to attain the true path as soon as possible"

Ling Tongzi's understanding of the Dao is profound, and he has always been extremely patient with others. Although the child before him appears quite ordinary and is covered in dirt, he feels an inexplicable sense of familiarity. He explains without impatience: "If I explain it carefully, you will understand. Each realm, though consisting of only two characters, encompasses the meaning of four characters. For example, the first realm, 'Entry Path,' refers to the initial stage of entering the Dao. Once you formally become a disciple and begin to practice the teachings of our sect, you will belong to this realm. Each realm, though consisting of only two characters, encompasses the meaning of four characters. For instance, the first realm, 'Entry Path,' refers to the initial stage of entering the Dao. Once you formally become a disciple and begin to practice the teachings of our sect, you will belong to this realm. 'Initial Glimpse' refers to the first glimpse of the path, indicating the realm you reach after achieving some success in your practice, where you enter the hall of mastery. For example, 'Subduing the Tiger' refers to the ability to subdue dragons and tigers, 'Soaring Clouds' refers to riding the clouds and mist, 'Steadfast Dao' refers to a stable heart in the Dao, and 'Fetal Completion' refers to the completion of the Dao fetus.

Lingzhi Zi said: "You really shouldn't bring up those embarrassing incidents from your past. After your urine contaminated the eldest senior brother's most treasured flying sword, he spent a whole year refining it with true fire before it was restored. Even now, whenever he mentions you, he says, 'That little Eleven who wet his pants really caused me a lot of trouble.'" As he spoke, Lingzhi Zi mimicked the eldest senior brother's helpless expression, causing the other three to burst into laughter.

Lingzhi sighed softly and said, "As one's cultivation increases and the impurities within the body are eliminated, a person's lifespan will continue to extend. Child, since you have concerns at home, it would be better to wait until after your parents have passed away to return. Only then can you calm your mind to cultivate."

Ling Tongzi hurriedly stepped forward and said: "Yes, Master. The most important requirement for entering our sect is the test of character. This child..." He then proceeded to recount in detail the matters concerning Hai Long and Zhang Hao.

Ling Yuzi eagerly said: "Having poor aptitude is not a problem; as long as we have him as a fifth-generation disciple, we will have someone to handle the chores in the future." He has always been straightforward and inadvertently revealed his true thoughts.

After a while, Ling Zhizi returned the sea dragon to Ling Tongzi, frowning as he said: "This child must have suffered a lot since childhood; there are many impurities within him, and his mental strength is quite weak. If he wishes to cultivate the Dao, it will be somewhat difficult. Sixth Junior Brother, it seems your judgment is not very good!"

Ling Tongzi's expression changed: "This is not good, the restriction of the immortal formation is about to activate, why hasn't Xiao Shiyi returned yet?" Once the immortal formation is closed, unless the sect master of Lianyun Sect and several other second-generation masters work together to reopen the formation, Ling Yuzi will be unable to return for five years. The bond among the brothers has always been deep, and as the immortal formation is about to activate, the anxiety of the three Ling Tongzi is evident.

The fluctuations of the clouds and mist are growing increasingly intense, and the celestial formation is about to officially activate. Under the chilling breeze at the mountain peak, Hai Long couldn't help but shiver. As the blue light subsided, Ling Tongzi's expression became exceptionally serious, his hands continuously changing gestures. He spoke in a deep voice: "Junior brothers, Ling Yuzi is hurrying back; let us go to meet him. The universe is boundless, the principles of heaven and earth are borrowed, the great way is established, and the path returns to its origin." The azure energy enveloping his body dispersed, rising up in an instant centered around him. With the completion of the incantation, a flash of azure light appeared, and Ling Tongzi's Aurora Flying Sword was drawn from its sheath. He reiterated: "Junior brothers, Ling Yuzi is hurrying back; let us go to meet him. The universe is boundless, the principles of heaven and earth are borrowed, the great way is established, and the path returns to its origin." The azure energy enveloping his body dispersed, rising up in an instant centered around him. With the completion of the incantation, a flash of azure light appeared, and Ling Tongzi's Aurora Flying Sword was drawn from its sheath.

Ling Tongzi perceived the doubts in Hai Long's heart and said softly: "As practitioners of the Dao, we do not place importance on external matters; everything arises from nature and is rooted in nature. This Mo Yun cave dwelling is entirely naturally formed, and even the small house where your master’s ancestor lived was merely a large rock. The spiritual energy here is abundant, making it very suitable for cultivation." Following the narrow path through the grass, the five had already arrived before the stone house. The spiritual energy here is abundant, making it very suitable for cultivation. Following the narrow path through the grass, the five had already arrived before the stone house.

Hai Long was taken aback, suddenly recalling the words of Ling Tongzi from earlier, and was immediately drenched in cold sweat. He hurriedly said, "No, no. How could I dare to insult you?" While speaking, he made an effort to shake off the distracting thoughts in his mind. The four disciples of Ling Tongzi were even more frightened, their bodies trembling slightly. Since the day they entered the sect, they had been very fearful of this stern master.

Ling Tongzi bowed to the Sea Dragon, along with Ling Zhi Zi, Ling Yan Zi, and Ling Yu Zi, respectfully saying: "Disciple pays respects to the Master"

Respectfully standing outside the cave, the four disciples of Ling Tongzi infused their powers into their voices, "Disciple Ling Tongzi (Ling Zhi Zi, Ling Yan Zi, Ling Yu Zi) has completed the task of recruiting disciples at Di Ling Mountain and has come to report to the Master."

Ling Tongzi said: "Alright, you need not feel troubled. This practice of non-action is not without its merits. I can accept you as disciples, but there are a few things I must tell you first. Our Lianyun Sect is one of the seven major cultivation sects of the present age, and we practice the most authentic teachings passed down by Master Lianyun. Upon joining our Lianyun Sect, you will sever all worldly affairs; in the mountains, there are no cycles of years, and it is likely that you will never see your loved ones again. Can you accept this?"

After years of cultivation, Ling Tongzi naturally refrained from speaking recklessly. With a gentle sigh, he said: "All phenomena are interdependent; do not overthink it. As long as your brother is not ensnared by the myriad distractions of the mortal world, he will naturally come to meet you. The ranking of my disciples primarily depends on the specific realms they have attained. There are a total of twenty-one realms, which are: Entry Path, Initial Insight, Subduing the Tiger, Riding the Clouds, Firmly Established Path, Gestation, Clarity, Penetration, Ascending the Peak, Unmatched, Burden, Flourishing Path, Rebirth, Radiant Ascension, Not Falling, Great Path, Unfathomable, Celestial Shift, Cataclysm Completion, Ascending to Immortality, and Unity with Heaven."

Zhang Hao forced a smile and said, "No need. Brother Long, you should first learn your skills from the master immortals. When I come back in the future, you can help me! Moreover, you are struggling to even have meals in the village. This is truly your best place to settle down"

Ling Yuzi's complexion was somewhat pale, and he was gasping for breath. Ling Tongzi and the other two hurriedly surrounded him, but the first to speak was Hai Long, "Master Eleven, have you sent the bean sprouts home?"

After all, Hai Long still has a child's heart. Upon hearing Ling Tongzi mention this, he couldn't help but ask, "Isn't this Lianyun Mountain? How come there are so many peaks, seventy-two in total?"

Master Daoming calmly stated: "As practitioners of the Dao, we must be wary of insincerity and narrow-mindedness; you must remember this. Since you are a disciple of the Fifth Generation, you should belong to the Tan character lineage. Only through transformation can one ascend to immortality. I shall bestow upon you a Dao name with the character 'Yu.' In the future, diligently cultivate under your several masters and strive to reach the realm of the Fourth Generation disciples as soon as possible. Do you understand?"

Hailong looked somewhat awkwardly at the clean cloth garments he was wearing, all the dirt on his body washed away, and a refreshing sensation continuously coursed through his skin. Recalling the feeling he had just experienced in the clear pool water, he couldn't help but feel a wave of comfort in his heart. He thought to himself that these masters were indeed quite good to him, but without his old tattered clothes, he felt rather out of place. However, the fruits he had just eaten were unlike anything he had ever encountered, their taste was extraordinarily delightful. He hoped that when he met his grandmaster, he would not embarrass himself by passing gas.

Hailong's gaze fell upon the mist rising between the mountains; he hoped that Ling Yuzi would return soon, so that he could know whether Zhang Hao had safely arrived home. Having witnessed Ling Tongzi and others perform their magical arts several times, he had already developed a considerable interest in these wondrous spells.

Lingzhi Zi smiled and said: "Of course, it cannot be fully learned. To achieve success in cultivation, it takes at least a thousand years! Cultivation is not a simple matter"

Ling Tongzi let out a light sigh and said, "It seems we were truly mistaken. Second Senior Brother was right; the cultivation of one's character is of utmost importance. Previously, we were indeed too selfish"