Chapter Nine: The Reunion of Master and Apprentice

Daoming angrily said: "You rebellious little brat, how dare you use the treasure I just gave you to strike me?"

Ling Tongzi looked at the hesitant expression on Hai Long's face and smiled slightly, saying: "Alright, if you cannot speak, then do not. My curiosity is not strong; the reason I pressed you is that I am concerned you may have suffered some harm"

Hailong chuckled and said, "Didn’t you also try the Star Blue Armor earlier? With your profound cultivation, how could my humble skills possibly harm you? It seems that the power of this Blood Eight Trigrams is rather ordinary."

Sea Dragon Path: "Master Ancestor, how have you come to our place? Do you know why this celestial formation has been opened?"

Ling Yuzi made a vomiting gesture and looked at Hailong with a disdainful gaze, which caused everyone present to burst into laughter

Sea Dragon

Master Liu

Hailong questioned: "Isn't it still not the time for recruiting disciples in five years? What is the purpose of opening the sealing array? Could it be that the ancestors can no longer bear the solitude and wish to go out for some fun?"

Of course. The venerable master is actually very amiable; it's just that you are unaware of it

I have met the master and the master's uncle

Dao Ming Zhen Ren said: "You should cultivate diligently. During this period, I will not enter seclusion. If you have any questions, come directly to Mo Yun Cave to ask me." After speaking, he took control of his flying sword and floated back to his cave.

Hailong looked at the nearly curled-up chubby face of Daoming Zhenren, who was smiling, and said softly, "Deal." He suddenly knelt down on the ground with a thud, almost shouting, "Disciple Tanyu pays respects to the Master Ancestor, wishing the Master Ancestor an early ascension to immortality and a glorious arrival in the Land of Ultimate Bliss"

The Sea Dragon floated beside Ling Tongzi and whispered, "Master Liu, what is happening? Why are you all here instead of cultivating? Just now, I sensed a tremendous pressure. Could it be that enemies are invading our Lianyun Mountain Range?"

As soon as Dao Ming departed, everyone immediately breathed a sigh of relief and surrounded Hai Long, asking questions incessantly

The Daoist Master Daoming said: "This treasure is called the Illusory Dragon, and it would be a bit of a waste for you to possess it. When you encounter great danger, you can channel all your magical power into it, and it can transform into a dragon to help you fend off enemies. However, due to your limited cultivation, it can only be maintained for a maximum of ten minutes. After releasing the Illusory Dragon, you must escape immediately; once its energy is depleted, it will return to your side on its own. Additionally, it has a special effect that can dispel common toxins. If you encounter miasma or similar substances, simply holding it in your hand will prevent you from being harmed by the poisonous gas"

Hailong bit his lip, sat up straight, and immersed his thoughts into his spiritual platform, feeling the spiritual energy surrounding his body. He said softly, "Master Liu, you may begin."

Ling Yuzi said: "Looking back, we were indeed too selfish at the beginning. When you first arrived, we were completely thinking of taking you in as a disciple to help us with menial tasks. It was Second Senior Brother who taught us a lesson and helped us overcome our selfishness. As time went on and you stayed longer, our interactions increased. We all discovered that, unexpectedly, we had come to like you, this boy with no apparent merits. Do you know? In order to bring you back, several senior brothers have asked Master countless times without us knowing."

The Daoist Master Daoming said: "This is the Blood Bagua, which will become your primary offensive treasure from now on. It can only fully integrate with you when blood is used as a catalyst. This treasure carries immense Daoist intent and is a powerful tool for subduing demons and vanquishing evil. However, due to the inherent malevolent energy it contains, you should use it sparingly. Once you reach the state of enlightenment, it will no longer be of use. You can expel it from your body using your magical power to prevent it from affecting your future cultivation. Its method of use is similar to that of the Star Blue Ring, emitting a red glow in accordance with the magical power you infuse into it. Its power is contingent upon your magical ability. If you can unleash its maximum potential, it should be able to penetrate energy equivalent to that of the Star Blue Armor."

"Tan Yu'er, you are spouting nonsense again, even daring to fabricate tales about the ancestors." The deep voice of Dao Ming Zhen Ren echoed as two figures, one stout and one thin, floated down gracefully; it was none other than Dao Ming Zhen Ren and his now third-generation disciple, Dao Xiu Zhen Ren.

After asking that question, Hai Long couldn't help but feel a bit regretful. He had just improved his relationship with Dao Ming Zhen Ren, yet he had once again ruined it himself. With a light sigh and the sound of books, he murmured: "Regardless of your intentions, I still want to thank you, Master Ancestor. I, Hai Long, hereby vow that within a hundred years, before the bet between you and me is completed, as long as it is in front of others, you will always be my respected Master Ancestor." I, Hai Long, hereby vow that within a hundred years, before the bet between you and me is completed, as long as it is in front of others, you will always be my respected Master Ancestor.

Ling Tongzi was the first to stand up, smiling as he said, "Let us go; I will first impart to you the core principles of the Tianxin Jue's main text."

Hailong looked deeply at Master Daoming and nodded solemnly. Turning to gaze at the row of wooden houses, he thought to himself: Masters, we are finally going to meet again, Hailong truly misses you all

Dao Xiu smiled and said: "Did I not tell you not to call me 'Shishu'? It sounds quite awkward. I am still your eldest senior brother."

Wow. Ling Yuzi's eyes widened, "A defensive treasure of the spirit weapon level, Master is being too partial."

Dao Ming Zhen Ren landed beside Hai Long, and all the fourth-generation disciples were astonished to find that their master's face bore a benevolent smile. A voice echoed in Hai Long's ear, "Kid, as long as you obediently listen, I won't give you a hard time. How about that? Of course, in front of your masters, you should also show me some respect."

The sun gradually drifted to the center of the sky, and under that scorching energy, the mist around Moya Peak faded somewhat. Ling Tongzi reawakened his six senses, emerging from his meditation. Since reaching the胎成 realm three years ago, his rate of progress had slowed significantly. Three years had passed, and there was still a considerable gap to the mid胎成 stage. With a thought, he suddenly sensed that there seemed to be someone on the Moya Plain outside. Three years had passed, and there was still a considerable gap to the mid胎成 stage. With a thought, he suddenly sensed that there seemed to be someone on the Moya Plain outside, and their aura did not belong to any of his junior brothers. Startled, he hurriedly leaped out of bed, grabbed his flying sword, and rushed out of the room.

Daoming was taken aback; he did not expect Hailong to use him for an experiment. In a moment of panic, he did not dare to be careless. An object resembling a token floated out from his bosom, and under the radiance of golden light, it managed to fend off Hailong's attack

After a while, the laughter subsided, and Hai Long said: "Esteemed masters, don't you find it rather dull to remain in Lianyun Mountain for so long? Although we cultivators can live to a great age, if we spend our entire lives in this one place, what joy is there in life? It would be wonderful to go out and have some adventures; if we encounter some villains, we could fully showcase our abilities and make a contribution.

Ling Tongzi said: "Indeed! We have been here for a long time. However, our sect, Lianyun Sect, has a family tradition that we cannot leave this place casually. Perhaps, cultivating to become an immortal is our ultimate goal."

Two figures, radiating different intensities of azure light, swiftly charged towards each other. At last, the azure light merged in mid-air, illuminated by a string of glistening droplets, as the two figures embraced tightly. After three years apart, this master and disciple finally reunited.

The room has become even darker, and the sky outside has completely turned black. Night has fallen

Although the Sea Dragon called out to his master in a leisurely manner, Dao Ming Zhenren could clearly sense that only this call came from his true heart. With a snort, he said: "You little brat can also thank me? Isn't it just the power of these magical treasures?"

Hailong and his eight masters were seated together on Moyunping, and they were all in an unusually good mood, enjoying fruits while chatting leisurely. For the first time in three years, Ling Tongzi and the others were as happy as they were today; Hailong's return had resolved the emotional knot between them and their master, Daoming Zhenren.

Hailong glanced at his various masters, nodded helplessly, and said: "Alright. It seems that this mundane life must continue! It's getting late, masters, you should proceed with your afternoon training, and I would like to meditate for a while"

Dao Ming Zhenren coughed lightly, slowly walked to the side of the crowd, and said with some annoyance: "It's not a matter of life and death, is it necessary to be so agitated? This will be detrimental to your cultivation." Only then did the crowd notice his presence, and under the guidance of Ling Yunzi, they fearfully bowed to Dao Ming Zhenren.

The remaining fourth-generation disciples of the Ling family have also awakened from their cultivation, sensing the changes on Moyunping. They rushed out of their rooms. Upon seeing the long-missed figure of Hailong, who has grown significantly, these cultivators, who had been living in seclusion, could no longer maintain their calm demeanor. Without exception, their eyes became moist, just like *Tu* *Shu*. Surprisingly, no one noticed that their master, Daoming Zhenren, was standing alone not far away.

Hailong smiled and said, "I can finally learn the orthodox mental techniques. Master Liu, you must remember me well; I even made a bet with my grandmaster."

Upon hearing Hai Long's words, everyone was taken aback. The eight masters of Hai Long simultaneously displayed expressions of contemplation. The youngest among them, Ling Yuzi, had been on the mountain for over forty years, and apart from cultivation, he had little else to occupy his time. Hai Long's words stirred their longing for the outside world.

Ling Tongzi smiled slightly and said, "Alright. We at the Sea Dragon also know when to employ labor. Master Liu is truly pleased"

Ling Tongzi's expression changed, and he said in a deep voice: "Don't even think about it. If you attempt to sneak away at this moment, it would be considered a betrayal of the sect. Not only would our Lianyun Sect be against you, but the entire cultivation world would also turn against you."

Having reached the summit of Moyun Peak, the Daoist Master Daoming retracted his celestial hearing and murmured, "Kid, I suppose you still have a bit of conscience, not having taken so many good things from me for nothing"

Ling Tongzi casually closed the door and said: "Hailong, you need to tell Master Liu the truth. What exactly has happened during these years with your grandmaster? Don't tell me that what you just said is true; I know you too well. From the tone of your voice just now, I can tell that those were all made up on the spot."

Young man, you haven't come back to see us in three years. Do you really want us to worry ourselves to death

Sitting cross-legged on his wooden couch, the difficult mantras recounted by Ling Tongzi echoed continuously in Hai Long's mind. Each of those mantras seemed to contain profound truths. Taking a deep breath, Hai Long slowly closed his eyes, directing his intention to stimulate the flow of heat within his body to rise from the spiritual platform. Wherever the heat flowed, waves of comfort clearly emerged. Although Hai Long had already obtained the mantras of the Tianxin Jue Zheng Pian, he was still in the Fuhu realm, so he continued to cultivate according to the foundational methods. The heat flowed gently along the meridians, and amidst the waves of refreshing sensations, Hai Long gradually entered a meditative state.

With a wave of his hand, Daoming said: "Today, I can return your precious disciple to you. From now on, do not pester me every day for someone. Ling Tongzi, Tan Yu has now entered the Fuhu realm; you must guide him well in the future. The main heart method of the Tianxin Jue can also be imparted to him now."

Everyone gathered around, and they almost simultaneously said: "We miss you too!"

Hailong Yileng asked, "What should I explain?"

Ling Yunzi smiled and said: "There have indeed been precedents for descending the mountain to travel. However, it requires waiting for the right opportunity. You, little monkey, cannot sit still at all. When the time comes, the masters will certainly help you seize the chance. Moreover, with your current level of cultivation, once you go out, you will at most be slightly stronger than an ordinary person. If you encounter a true cultivation expert or a more powerful demon, you will likely suffer losses. Therefore, what is most important for you now is to focus on your training, at least to surpass our current realm, so that you can have some assurance when you go out."

Hailong shook his left hand, feeling a wave of warm energy emanating from his palm. He said with satisfaction, "Master Ancestor, this magical artifact you gave me is quite useful; at the very least, it is convenient to use. Let me test its power." As he spoke, he focused his mind to channel his magical energy, and the red bagua on his palm suddenly lit up, the contrasting shades of the taiji pattern spinning violently. Hailong shouted, "Master Ancestor, look at the magical artifact!" Instantly, a beam of blood-red light spiraled forth, a blood-colored pillar approximately five centimeters in diameter rushing towards Dao Ming Zhenren.

Opening his eyes, Hai Long discovered that he was still in the room, but his clothes were already soaked with sweat. Reflecting on everything that had just happened, he thought to himself: Could it be that what I just saw was an illusion? Have I been too hasty, becoming obsessed? No, that can't be! If I truly were obsessed, I should be unable to move at all right now. Never mind, I should ask Master Liu. Perhaps he can resolve the confusion in my heart. If I truly were obsessed, I should be unable to move at all right now. Never mind, I should ask Master Liu. Perhaps he can resolve the confusion in my heart

Master Liu, I... Ha Long felt the heartfelt concern from Ling Tongzi and truly did not want to continue hiding it. However, whether it was the eccentric person or the admonitions from Dao Ming Zhenren, they made it impossible for him to speak out.

While on m.hetushu.com, he suddenly felt his room begin to shake, a tremendous pressure he had never experienced before clearly enveloping him. Under this pressure, it felt as though he could hardly catch his breath. A deep-seated fear surged from within, and Hai Long instinctively channeled his magical energy towards the Star Blue Ring. It was unclear how long this meditation lasted, but it seemed that his internal magical energy had not increased significantly; it merely felt purer than before. A deep-seated fear surged from within, and Hai Long instinctively channeled his magical energy towards the Star Blue Ring. It was unclear how long this meditation lasted, but it seemed that his internal magical energy had not increased significantly; it merely felt purer than before.

As soon as he stepped outside, Hai Long saw all ten of his masters, including Ling Zhi Zi and Ling Yuan Zi, standing on Mo Yun Ping, gazing into the distance, their expressions tinged with a hint of tension

Ling Tongzi looked at Hai Long's resplendent starry blue armor in surprise, shook his head, and said: "There are no enemies; I don't know why, but the ancestors are currently activating the mountain protection restriction array. The energy fluctuations are indeed quite strong. No wonder fellow disciples from other mountains have previously mentioned that the sealing array of our Lianyun Mountain is actually a celestial array left by the ancestors. Its power is formidable." No wonder fellow disciples from other mountains have previously mentioned that the sealing array of our Lianyun Mountain is actually a celestial array left by the ancestors. Its power is formidable.

Hailong embraced the Illusory Dragon, the playful expression on his face fading away, and said softly: "Master Ancestor, I have a question to ask you. If it weren't for the fact that the esteemed elder values me so highly, would you still bestow treasures upon me"

Hailong sat on the bed and said softly: "Thank you, Master Liu. Hailong swears before you that no matter what situation I encounter in the future, no matter how I change, you will always be my Master Liu. The same goes for all the other masters. I will forever be your disciple."

Sighing in relief, Hai Long murmured, "Indeed, it is a good treasure; it feels much more comfortable. What on earth is happening outside? I need to go take a look." With a thought, he lightly stepped to the door, took out the Illusory Dragon with his right hand, glanced at the Blood Bagua on his left hand, and then walked out.

As he watched the two embracing in front of him, Dao Ming Zhen Ren suddenly felt a twinge of jealousy. He knew that although he had gifted Hai Long three magical treasures, in Hai Long's heart, his status would never surpass that of Ling Tong Zi.

The Sea Dragon was playing with the Illusion Dragon and said, "This is my favorite; it is the Illusion Dragon, and I am the Sea Dragon. We are indeed a match made in heaven! Thank you, Master."

Hailong hurriedly extended his hand, greedily gazing at the other two magical artifacts suspended in mid-air. Daoming smiled slightly, and with a flick of his right hand, the small red bagua gracefully descended. Just as the bagua eye reached Hailong's palm, Daoming Zhenren suddenly flicked his finger, and a flash of blue light appeared, instantly creating a wound on Hailong's palm, from which blood began to flow.

Hailong's body trembled slightly as he glanced around at everyone, forcing himself to suppress his excited emotions, and said with a hint of protest: "Master Eleven, is there such a comment about your own disciple? Why do I have no merits at all? Don't you think your disciple is exceptionally outstanding? Where else can you find a disciple as excellent as me?"

Under the infusion of magical power, the Star Blue Ring radiated brilliantly, and a crystalline armor appeared on the surface of the body. The magic circle within the Star Blue Ring began to operate rapidly, and a faint blue light immediately emerged on the surface of the armor

Hailong's face flushed as he said, "Did I not know how to work before? I am the most diligent one. It's just that in the past, you always made me do menial tasks, leaving me no time to properly cultivate my skills"

As soon as he burst out of the room, Ling Tongzi's footsteps came to an abrupt halt, and his hand gripping the flying sword trembled slightly. The azure light radiating from his body fluctuated intensely with his emotions, for standing twenty paces in front of him was the very person he had deeply yearned for over a thousand days and nights

Ling Yuzi's keen eyes caught sight of the shimmering blue star ring around the sea dragon's neck, and he couldn't help but curiously ask, "Young one, what is that thing around your neck? It wouldn't happen to be a magical treasure, would it?"

Listening to the previous sentence, Dao Ming Zhen Ren still had a smile on his face. Upon hearing the latter, his smile inevitably became stiff, and he thought to himself: This kid, is he not cursing me to death? Although Hai Long's words sounded awkward, Dao Ming Zhen Ren could not express his anger. With a wave of his large sleeve, he used his magical power to lift Hai Long and said: "Alright, the formalities can be waived in the future, just don't cause me any trouble."

Ling Yuzi murmured, "So Master has truly been teaching this Sea Dragon Dao all along. I thought he had long since..." At this point, he suddenly caught the sharp gaze of Dao Ming Zhenren and hurriedly swallowed the latter half of his sentence.

Ling Tongzi felt a slight tremor throughout his body; he sensed sincerity in Hai Long's words. Calming the excitement within, he forced a smile and said: "Silly boy, do you think we don't know what kind of person you are? Stay calm and don't think about anything else. You must understand that for us cultivators, the more chaotic emotions we have, the greater the impact on our cultivation."

Hailong snorted and said, "It is not that easy to become an immortal. The second-generation patriarchs have cultivated for over 2,000 years, yet they still remain in this world. It is truly remarkable that they can endure it. Besides Master Lianyun, have you heard of any other patriarch who has attained immortality? Master Liu, why don't we discuss with our ancestor about going out for some travel? It might actually be beneficial for our cultivation."

Upon hearing this, Hailong couldn't help but feel a bit dejected. He scratched his head and said, "Then we can leave here during the once-every-five-years recruitment period! At that time, won't the restrictions be lifted?"

The realm of Douzhuan is truly something to aspire to! I once heard your master’s ancestor say that if one reaches this realm, they will possess the ability to manipulate the stars and constellations. Just think about it, being able to control even the celestial bodies requires an immense amount of magical power. Life in the mountains may be simple, but these wondrous realms might just be the most compelling source that drives us to continue our practice

I apologize for the late update today. However, I have good news to share with everyone: starting next month, I will be publishing a series of six books in Simplified Chinese. The first book is expected to be released next month, and there will be exquisite gifts included. If you purchase the complete set, you will also receive a doll. The books will be available nationwide

The Sea Dragon's Mysterious Path: "I cannot tell you yet. You will know when the time comes." As they spoke, the two had already returned to the Sea Dragon's room.

Dao Ming's expression changed suddenly as he gazed at the Sea Dragon before him, a hint of shadow crossing his features. After a long pause, he said: "Of course not. Did you think I gave any of your masters their magical treasures? I merely assisted them in refining their flying swords. You may think whatever you wish. In any case, I have already given you the items."

Ling Tongzi Dao: "You know best what is going on in your heart. Alright, I've talked to you for an entire afternoon, and I am indeed a bit tired. If there is anything you do not understand, feel free to ask us, and we will do our best to explain it to you." After saying this, he opened the door and walked out.

The white little dragon appears to be made of jade, looking extremely exquisite and adorable. The vividly lifelike dragon features five claws, with a faint treasure-like glow continuously flowing over it. Its eyes are golden, seemingly not ordinary gold, but rather resembling a type of ore. The sea dragon clearly senses that the energy flowing from the white little dragon is filled with vitality, and under the infusion of that energy, he feels exceptionally comfortable all over.

Hailong chuckled and said: "Of course it is a magical treasure. This is the Star Blue Ring given to me by my master, and it belongs to the defensive category of magical treasures. It is of spirit tool grade, and it contains a magical array that can be activated without requiring too much mana. What do you think? Master Eleven, are you envious?"

Ling Tongzi suddenly asked: "What bet are we placing?"

Observing Hai Long's demeanor, Ling Tongzi was slightly taken aback. Even with his current level of cultivation, it was impossible for him to control his emotions so effortlessly. He gently shook his head, dismissing the various emotions in his mind, and spoke in a low, serious voice: "The Tianxin Jue is the fundamental technique of our Lianyun Sect, extremely profound. You have already mastered the first three foundational sections; I will now impart to you the complete fifteen sections. The left eye represents the sun, the right eye represents the moon, and the intersection of the sun and moon forms a circular symbol at the center of the brow. This circular symbol at the brow is the Tianxin..." At that moment, Ling Tongzi carefully conveyed the cultivation methods of the fifteen sections to Hai Long, explaining these methods in detail. Hai Long, being exceptionally gifted, listened attentively to Ling Tongzi's explanations and firmly committed these cultivation methods to memory.

Hai Long, how have you been these days? Master, has Master...

Ling Tongzi had already wiped away his tears and smiled, saying: "Alright, now that the Sea Dragon has just returned, let's not keep asking questions. As long as he is back, that is enough, that is enough"

Dao Ming Zhenren snorted and said, "What is so ordinary? Just now, I used my most powerful treasure, the Cheng Tian Plate. If the response had been a bit slower, perhaps this little brat would have succeeded. I'll give you this as well, but don't use it to test me. Otherwise, I will take back all your treasures." As he spoke, a flash of white light appeared, and the exquisitely carved white dragon fell into the Sea Dragon's palm.

"Hailong, how have you progressed so quickly in your cultivation? In just over four years, you have reached the Tiger Subduing Realm"

Ling Tongzi sighed lightly and said, "I am also concerned and thus agitated! When you were taken away by the master, we were all nearly frantic. The eight of us have been together for decades, living a life of tranquility, and your arrival has brought us much joy. Although it has only been a little over a year, we have already regarded you as one of us. Alright, no more rambling. Sit properly on the bed, and I will teach you the mental techniques of the Tianxin Jue."

The flesh on Daoming's face twitched slightly as he said softly, "This is sufficient. By the way, it is getting late, and Ling Tongzi and the others will soon awaken from their cultivation. When I told them that you have been secretly cultivating with me to maintain the secret of your peculiar senior, be careful not to let anything slip later."

Time passed unknowingly. By the time Ling Tongzi finished explaining the final, eighteenth level of the cultivation method, the sun had already set in the west. A layer of darkness had enveloped the outside of the window, and the temperature in the room had dropped a few degrees.

Hailong blinked and said with a wry smile, "Master Liu, you are truly impressive! What I just said cannot all be considered lies. I do not wish to deceive you, but I simply cannot disclose everything! I can only tell you that I have not suffered any hardships in these three years, and my master has indeed treated me very well. Please do not ask further; when the time comes that I can share with you, I will certainly do so"

After a long while, Hai Long slowly lifted his head from Ling Tongzi's shoulder, gazing at Ling Tongzi's simple face, which was marked with tear stains, and choked out, "Master Liu, I really miss you so much!" Although it felt as if the separation had only happened yesterday, he understood that he had been away from these masters for a full thousand days and nights.

Seeing Ling Tongzi's displeased expression, Hai Long let out a helpless sigh and said: "Master Liu, please don't be angry. I was just speaking casually. It's truly easier to ascend the mountain than to descend it"

Ling Tongzi smiled wryly and said, "To be honest, what you mentioned is something we have all considered. However, now that we have stepped into the realm of cultivation, we must persevere. Not to mention that your grandmaster would never agree to our departure; even if he did, it would be impossible to convince the sect leader. Without the combined efforts of the sect leader and several second-generation ancestors, the barriers surrounding the mountains cannot be breached."

Under the intense questioning of eight individuals, Hailong felt a wave of dizziness. "Alright, esteemed masters, please do not all ask at once; my head is spinning. To be honest, I am not even clear on how I have spent these past three years; I suppose it has been a period of arduous cultivation. My master provided me with numerous rare treasures, which is why my cultivation has progressed so rapidly."

Ling Yuzi smiled and said, "Hai Long, you have already entered the Fuhu realm. This time, Sixth Senior Brother can also report to Second Senior Brother."

In his astonishment, Hailong felt a sudden warmth in his left hand, as the red bagua had already landed on his wound. Instantly, a beam of blood light shot up into the sky, and amidst a spasm in his body, the red bagua had merged into the palm of his hand.

The Sea Dragon's magical power, having only reached the Tiger Subduing realm, was limited; the blood-red light column flashed and vanished in an instant. He expressed some dissatisfaction, saying, "This isn't much at all"

Uncertain how much time had passed, the sea dragon felt a slight tremor throughout his body and gradually regained consciousness. To his astonishment, he beheld a strange sight: a network of complex, interwoven rivers lay before him, their waters a shade of blue, emanating a faint glow. They continuously cycled and flowed, and although the countless rivers appeared chaotic, many of their trajectories were similar, ultimately converging into a single blue lake. As he gazed at these peculiar scenes, the sea dragon could no longer maintain his calm demeanor; his emotions stirred slightly. Suddenly, the scene before him darkened, and all the images vanished.

The brilliance of the sea dragon's eye flickered continuously; this afternoon was truly of utmost importance to him. One wondrous realm after another made him feel ethereal and yearning, achieving a celestial realm through human effort—what a marvelous sensation that was! "Master Liu, I don't want to have dinner anymore; you may go rest. I would like to take some time to reflect on what you taught me this afternoon."