Chapter 1: Mo Chou

He possessed a considerable amount of silver, which he had casually acquired while shopping in Phoenix Town, and he felt no sense of shame about it. For wealthy families, losing a hundred or eighty taels of silver was quite ordinary. Moreover, Xiao Yuesheng had been educated to believe that while money is not everything, being without money is absolutely untenable. No matter how capable one may be, one cannot escape the realities of life; one cannot do without money.

Sun Ziming was somewhat surprised by Xiao Yuesheng's exceptional martial arts skills, but not overly so. He was upright yet clever, having honed a keen eye over the years amidst the comings and goings of vehicles. From the very beginning, he had already sensed that this seemingly ordinary-looking young master, who was generous in his actions, was not simple. Each glance he cast conveyed a sense of warmth and tolerance, which made him feel a sense of familiarity.

The martial arts of the Ancient Tomb Sect are exquisite and graceful in every move and technique. Even in moments of anger, Li Mochou's strikes remain gentle and elegant, resembling the playful banter between lovers, devoid of any trace of fury

After staying for a night, the next morning, having completed the morning lessons and practiced for a while, I left the inn and set off towards Penglai Pavilion

Without the motivation to cultivate, one naturally feels that their current life is somewhat too austere, alone in the desolate mountains, standing solitary, with only one's shadow for company. The once sweet feeling of acceptance has vanished, making it difficult to endure life in the mountains.

The young Taoist priest, with delicate features and an elegant demeanor, respectfully returned the greeting and said, "The palace master has long since left the palace and returned to Chongyang Palace. I hope Master Xiao understands"

Xiao Yue was staring at Li Mochou without any restraint, inwardly sighing that she was indeed a stunning beauty, incredibly alluring. Although she was as cold as ice, she was still immensely captivating. He paid no attention to her words, completely immersed in her beauty. In modern society, such beauties are mostly maintained by makeup, but Li Mochou's unique beauty left him utterly enchanted.

He stood there, letting the wind brush against his face, gazing up at the lake in the distance, listening to the gentle sound of the water lapping against the shore. In his heart, he pondered that Li Mochou must be even more eager for the Jade Maiden Heart Sutra now, and sooner or later, she would seek out the ancient tomb. The troubles for Yang Guo and Xiaolongnü were about to begin. However, without experiencing wind and rain, how could one see the rainbow? Without enduring hardships, how could true feelings be revealed? In any case, they were not in life-threatening danger, and enduring a bit more hardship would be beneficial.

Xiao Yue gently turned to the side, appearing to be unintentional, as she dodged her duster and said with a smile, "How can a person who has renounced the world still have such a temper!"

Having transcended the notions of life and death, his thoughts naturally began to multiply. In this world, is it truly the realm of "The Return of the Condor Heroes" or that of "The Legend of the Condor Heroes"? This contemplation troubled him greatly. Does Yang Guo truly exist? Is there really a Gu Mu sect? Later, while occasionally shopping in Phoenix Town, he heard the name of the Red Lotus Fairy, Li Mochou, which allowed him to confirm that this is indeed the world of "The Return of the Condor Heroes." Yet, he suddenly felt lost. What is the purpose of his existence now? What significance does life hold? To live forever without anything to pursue would be utterly boring.

The coachman was named Sun Mingzi, and being from a poor family, he naturally had no courtesy name. Xiao Yuesheng observed that he had a calm demeanor and a straightforward gaze, deducing that he must be a person of strong will, integrity, and bravery, and he was determined to cultivate him. He first pretended to be a traveling scholar, seemingly weak and incapable of harming a chicken. Later, he intentionally let several taels of gold fall from his bundle, testing him for a few days. Seeing that he had no greed, he also bought several jars of fine wine on the road, frequently drinking with Sun Mingzi, and each time he would get him drunk, observing his behavior after drinking, ultimately feeling satisfied and comforted.

The young Taoist priest has a medium build, appearing quite robust, with an ordinary and unremarkable appearance. However, his pair of eyes is crystal clear and exceptionally spirited, transforming this ordinary face into something extraordinary. His every gesture and movement exudes a calm composure, radiating great charm

Xiao Yuesheng traveled east and arrived at the Shangqing Palace, where the palace master was Ma Yu. The main hall housed the statues of the Three Pure Ones, and it was very tranquil. Although there were many people, they all bore solemn expressions and remained silent. Despite the comings and goings of individuals, there was no sense of noise, which reflected the sincerity of the people's hearts

Without the beauty by his side, Xiao Yue Sheng felt a slight sense of melancholy. Regardless, having a beautiful companion was indeed a delightful experience. The thought of seeking a beauty to accompany him arose in his mind

Penglai Pavilion is said to be the place where the Eight Immortals crossed the sea, created through celestial magic. The eight immortals—Zhongli of Han, He Xiangu, Lü Dongbin, Zhang Guolao, Cao Guojiao, Tieguai Li, Han Xiangzi, and Lan Caihe—are said to have gathered at Penglai Pavilion for a drinking party. When the wine flowed freely, Tieguai Li proposed that they take a joyful trip over the sea. The other immortals unanimously agreed, stipulating that each should rely on their own magical powers to cross the sea, without using boats, which is known as "The Eight Immortals Cross the Sea, Each Displays Their Powers." Furthermore, it is said that Penglai is protected by the immortals and is never afflicted by natural disasters. Although this legend may seem somewhat ethereal, it is indeed true that Penglai Pavilion is not subject to calamities, making it a blessed place.

Li Mochou lightly swept back, signaling her withdrawal, and said in a delicate voice: "Who exactly are you? Why do you trouble me?"

Xiao Yue Sheng lifted weights as if they were light, effortlessly dodging with a calm demeanor, and said with a smile: "Indeed, you are worthy of the title of the Scarlet Serpent Fairy, ruthless and merciless. If you are tired, why not take a moment to rest? We have no enmity that cannot be resolved, so why resort to harsh measures against each other?"

Phoenix Town is not far from Penglai Pavilion, approximately twenty to thirty li away. Xiao Yuesheng leisurely walked the entire way and arrived at Penglai Pavilion before noon

Having packed his belongings, there was nothing of significance to carry. He removed his Daoist robe and changed into the attire of an ordinary person. Then, he set up several formations in front of the temple, confident that an average person would be unable to perceive the existence of this Daoist temple. This was a bit of selfishness; in truth, hardly anyone wished to occupy such a desolate place. Next to Phoenix Town lies Phoenix Mountain, and atop Phoenix Mountain stands the Phoenix Temple. This was a whimsical poem he concocted during moments of boredom and reading, and he laughed heartily at his own cleverness. He then decided to rename the temple to Phoenix Temple, even though this name was highly inappropriate according to the naming conventions of Daoist temples, being overly extravagant and likely to cause the Daoists to frown upon hearing it. Yet, he paid no mind to this.

"Li Mochou!?" He immediately recalled this character

Li Mochou was even more astonished in her heart; such lightness of skill was something she had never seen before. Noticing the frivolous expression on his face, she felt displeased and coldly said, "What business do you have, sir?" If it were not for her apprehension of the martial prowess of the person before her, she would have already struck him down with a palm, ending his life right there.

Since Xiao Yue Sheng arrived in this world, he had never seen such a beautiful woman. Unfortunately, she was a Taoist priestess, which he found quite regrettable. Suddenly, he realized that this scene felt so familiar, as if he had seen it before

With the help of classmates and friends, he sought medical treatment all over the world, only to return in disappointment. In the end, in his despair, he became a disciple under the master of the Longmen sect, learning the Taoist inner elixir technique. Although he was not very convinced, it was like a drowning person grasping at a reed; he decided to give it a try.

He once thought that he was not afraid of death, believing that he had come to terms with it; everyone must die, and no one can escape it. Rather than evade it, one should face it. However, when he truly confronted death, he realized how profoundly mistaken he was; death is indeed very frightening

He held a drink in his left hand and meat in his right, muttering about seeking solace in drunkenness. Suddenly, a melody floated into his ears, ethereal and seemingly sung in solitude. The voice was melodious and crisp, delicate yet enchanting. He was immediately captivated, reflecting inwardly: it has been a long time since I have heard such a beautiful song, as if it were from another world

However, the risks of cultivation are immense. Without the protection of a master, it is easy to encounter problems. He indeed faced such an issue; the golden elixir shattered, and the primordial infant was formed. His body could not withstand the overwhelming energy, leading to instantaneous destruction. The primordial infant escaped and, in a state of confusion, found itself in an unknown body. Upon awakening, it realized that the world was no longer the same as before.

Xiao Yuansheng lifted a bowl of wine, gulping it down in a few swigs until the bowl was empty. He deftly wiped the wine stains from the corner of his mouth and sighed in satisfaction. He was naturally gifted with a high tolerance for alcohol, and after enduring the trials of strong liquor, drinking the low-alcohol beverages of this era felt as easy as sipping tea.

The elderly man facing north, thin and with a sharp gaze, smiled and said, "Third Brother, his temperament is just like yours. Moreover, as the saying goes, 'A blessing in disguise,' with the recent unrest in the south, it seems we may be heading for war again. If Chunfeng were to become a Taoist priest, he could avoid the hardships of military service, which might not be a bad thing after all"

At that time, he was thirty years old, in the prime of his life, and he had indeed achieved a measure of success. After graduating from university, he co-founded a small company with several classmates. Due to his quick wit and sharp mind, the small company thrived under his management, with business improving day by day. He could already be considered a successful individual. However, just as he was enjoying his success, he was suddenly diagnosed with a form of muscular dystrophy, an incurable disease. His muscles gradually began to atrophy, followed by brain atrophy, leading to death. Within a few years, he would inevitably leave this world.

Knowing that one is destined to die, one becomes indifferent to everything, and the state of mind aligns with the path of cultivation. With the guidance of a wise master, one's skills advance by leaps and bounds, and within a mere four years, one has surpassed the master and achieved the Golden Elixir.

Among them, the Quanzhen Sect has continuously produced talents and is gradually thriving. Since the True Man Changchun was summoned to meet Genghis Khan, it has subtly become the foremost Daoist sect in the Central Plains. Its founder, Wang Chongyang, excelled in both Daoist arts and martial skills, surpassing all of his contemporaries. During the famous sword contest at Mount Huashan, he single-handedly faced four opponents, defeating all the top masters of the world with ease and grace, leaving an indelible impression that was unmatched at the time

Traversing the wilderness and ascending the mountain, there was no established path upward; he relied solely on his instincts, strolling as if in a leisurely garden. Soon, a dilapidated Taoist temple appeared before him. He examined this refuge with a sense of nostalgia, only to be interrupted by the rumbling of his stomach. Although he had mastered the art of Taoism and had long surpassed the realm of fasting, he still indulged in his cravings. Unless he saw food nearing its end, he would fast only briefly, enduring for several days; otherwise, he maintained his three meals a day without fail. He had heard of the legendary figure Hong Qigong, who was infamously gluttonous, and often felt a kinship with him, always hoping to meet this extraordinary person one day to discuss shared interests and seek wisdom on how to enjoy food even more. Unfortunately, he was already aware of Hong Qigong's fate and could only feel regret.

Li Mochou struck empty with one move, her anger intensifying within. She pressed her lips tightly together, launching one move after another, each more formidable than the last, the fierce aura of killing growing ever stronger, each strike aimed to take a life

Half a month ago, Sun Ziming unexpectedly encountered the God of Wealth, and a young man actually paid him fifty taels of silver to escort him to Zhongnan Mountain. Although the journey was long, this generous reward was enough for him to cover five or six years of expenses, making him so happy that he woke up laughing in his sleep at night. With these fifty taels, plus the twenty taels he had saved, he had enough to marry a wife, continue the Sun family lineage, and then return to his hometown to buy two plots of land, ensuring a life free from worries about food and clothing. Just thinking about such a life made him feel delighted.

Li Mochou was immersed in memories when a soul-stirring question suddenly reached her ears, causing her heart to shudder; she thought to herself that this person possessed profound inner strength

Although Li Mochou found it grating and felt uncomfortable, she was helpless against the circumstances, let out a snort, and remained silent with her lips pressed together

The coachman was a strong and simple-hearted man, speaking with a thick Shandong accent. The robust demeanor of a Shandong man was evident, which naturally endeared him to Xiao Yue, leading her to be quite generous with the remuneration, promising a substantial profit of fifty taels of silver. At this time in the world, signs of decline were already apparent, with copper coins becoming increasingly common; currently, ten guan was worth less than one guan in the past. Gold and silver were not at risk of devaluation, making them highly sought after. This fifty taels of silver was sufficient for a coachman to operate for two years.

This line of poetry sprang forth, and Xiao Yue felt an unparalleled beauty in her heart. The regret of being unable to compose verses about the wind and the moon gradually faded. Although she wished to recite a couple of lines: "Ah, South Lake, I love you—", she restrained herself with great effort, fearing that if others heard her, she would be met with disdain and ridicule. Although she did not care for such opinions, she worried that her future disciple would not be able to bear it.

Since Xiao Yue Sheng became aware of his ability to attain immortality, his actions have become procrastinated and leisurely, much like a person who possesses inexhaustible wealth, naturally indifferent to the value of money. The rarity of things makes them precious; it is precisely because life is short that one understands the fleeting nature of time and the need to cherish it. Those who are immortal or face death, in their subconscious, will no longer value time.

The discussion at the table among the four, filled with trivial matters and family gossip, suddenly caught the attention of Xiao Yuansheng

In front of the Three Pure Ones statue, two young Taoist priests stood with their heads bowed, their eyes cast down, silent and motionless. Xiao Yue glanced over lightly and noticed that these two young priests stood as firm as a mountain and were as still as a maiden, indicating a profound mastery of stillness that surprised him. He did not expect that at such a young age, they could possess such deep stillness skills, suggesting a promising future ahead.

Xiao Yuesheng wished to go to Jiaxing. Since Sun Ziming did not accompany him, he inquired along the way, walking intermittently. Upon reaching the South Lake in Jiaxing just past noon, Xiao Yuesheng, having never seen a lake before, felt a sense of novelty and interest. He got off the vehicle and asked Sun Ziming to spread out a mat under the willow trees by the lake. He took out some braised meat and sausages, along with some freshly purchased roast chicken and beef, complemented by two vegetables and a jar of bamboo leaf wine. The two of them sat on the ground, enjoying the scenery, and their appetites were particularly good.

In fact, his name is Xiao Yuesheng, and the reason he hides in this deserted temple is because he possesses a shocking secret: he is not a person from this world

The old man at the west end snorted softly, lowered his head, and began to drink, remaining silent.

He listened to a few more sentences, and the discussion among the four had transformed into poetic verses, leaving him utterly bewildered. In terms of poetry, he naturally could not keep pace with the people of this era.

"The Red Snake Fairy, Li Mochou"

Facing the gentle breeze and enjoying the cool air, the two felt a great appetite and were filled with joy

Having seen his wish to meet Danyangzi come to naught, Xiao Yuesheng felt somewhat despondent and listless as he made his way back. He stayed overnight at the original inn, and the next day hired a carriage, heading southward, the journey taking him towards Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

The elder facing south changed his expression and quickly hissed, nervously looking around. Seeing that no one was paying attention, he finally breathed a sigh of relief and said, "Second, stop talking!"

Although Li Mochou was unwilling to listen, she could not help but feel a slight stir in her heart upon seeing his sincere demeanor and earnest words. However, this feeling was fleeting; she scolded herself that none of these despicable men were worth trusting. She took the whisk, remaining silent, her waist swaying lightly as she glided away into the distance. The earlier display of Xiao Yuesheng's ability to seize objects from the air had left her in shock once more. Faced with such a creature, it was better to keep her distance.

The four elderly men were all dressed in blue robes, with long flowing beards, exuding an air of distinction, resembling scholars. The elder on the eastern end had a ruddy complexion, yet wore a look of sorrow, constantly sighing and drinking cup after cup of wine, which made his complexion even more flushed.

The profession of a carter is generally considered lowly, yet the thoughts that Xiao Yue Sheng has absorbed are from several hundred years later. Moreover, he holds a favorable impression of Sun Ziming, continually addressing him as "Ziming," which greatly moves Sun Ziming.

He hid in this Taoist temple, practicing his cultivation while inquiring about the world, gradually arriving at a conclusion that left him utterly astonished: the current world is, in fact, the world of "The Return of the Condor Heroes," during the Southern Song Dynasty under Emperor Lizong. The five great masters, although the Divine Skill has perished, have been replaced by Guo Jing, and Kublai Khan is in power. All of this serves as undeniable evidence, making it truly hard to believe, for after all, "The Return of the Condor Heroes" is a novel, and its world is not a reflection of real history.

After listening, Xiao Yuansheng casually rewarded the enthusiastic waiter, poured a cup of wine, and while savoring it, began to ponder. Ultimately, he decided to visit Ma Yu at Penglai Pavilion in Dengzhou Prefecture.

Sun Ziming is a simple and honest man. Due to his family's poverty and lack of relatives, he has not yet married. Faced with the harsh reality of farming, which offers no hope of prosperity, he decided to sell all his possessions to purchase a horse-drawn cart and became a carter in the town. Although he endures the hardships of the elements, it is far better than farming. Over the past three years, he has saved up twenty taels of silver. In another two years, he will be able to marry and live a stable life. The thought of the future fills him with excitement

However, experiencing the heroes of this world is indeed a source of enjoyment

Xiao Yuansheng saw a faint blue light flickering on the silver needle, indicating it was highly poisonous. Feeling a slight anger, he interlocked his thumb and middle finger, releasing a surge of true energy that struck the handle of the whisk. Li Mochou only felt a tremendous force coming from the whisk, causing her palm to tingle and weaken, rendering her unable to exert any strength. She could only watch as the whisk was swept up and slipped from her grasp, its handle embedding itself half a foot into the ground

Sun Ziming was taken aback upon hearing this line of poetry and immediately laughed, saying: "What a wonderful line, 'The wind that brushes the face is not cold, like the willows in spring!' Truly a splendid line. Was it composed by the young master"

Having achieved mastery in his cultivation, he no longer scoffed at the idea of immortality; instead, he held an unwavering belief in it. Each time he entered a meditative state, he always felt he was on the verge of grasping its essence, yet he ultimately fell short at the last moment, unable to capture it. However, recently, he suddenly had an epiphany: since his primordial spirit had already been formed, he was, in fact, already immortal. Even if his physical body perished, his primordial spirit could transfer to another body and continue to exist, representing a different form of immortality. What was there to fear? This realization brought him immense joy, and after each day of cultivation, he would stand in front of the Taoist temple, facing the howling wind, and laugh heartily.

As he walked further away from Phoenix Town, his pace quickened increasingly. With each step, he covered nearly ten feet, and his strides grew larger and larger. Eventually, he could leap five or six times that distance in a single bound. If anyone were to witness this, they would surely find it hard to believe their own eyes. Such a legendary skill of shrinking distances had truly manifested in the world, leaving people astonished and incredulous.

His condition no longer deteriorated; although it could not be cured, he was overjoyed. Thus, he devoted himself even more fervently to his cultivation. However, at this point, his master could no longer provide guidance, and everything had to be explored on his own. The Golden Elixir had already been formed, and various supernatural abilities began to manifest, such as perfect recall, reading ten lines at a glance, and possessing strength like an ox. Soon, the Daoist texts of the Longmen Sect were imprinted in his mind, and relying on his own exploration, he began to continue his cultivation.

Li Mochou scolded, "Hmph, who do you think we are? You lecherous scoundrel, you are not worth mourning!" With a casual flick of her left hand, she dismissed him indifferently

Reflecting on the year 2004, his thoughts gradually soared, flying towards the horizon. The year 2000 was indeed an unforgettable moment; it was a year filled with ambition and also a year of heartbreak.

"Who are you?!" Li Mochou asked coldly, her pretty face stern. Usually, she smiled charmingly, radiant as a peach blossom, but at this moment, feeling displeased, she naturally presented a cold demeanor.

Xiao Yue raised his right hand lightly, and the dust brush embedded in the ground flew into his hand. He wiped the dirt off the handle and handed it to Li Mochou, saying: "In the martial world, there are countless nameless masters. Your indiscriminate killing of innocents will surely provoke public outrage and easily offend skilled fighters. It is hard to say whether any of those you have killed had relatives or disciples among the masters. No matter how high your martial arts skills are, you cannot withstand the numbers. Moreover, your skills are not sufficient to act with impunity. Heed my advice and practice more restraint."

The mountain bandits have gradually diminished, leaving Xiao Yue with a sense of boredom. Jiangnan is abundant and prosperous, and with enough food to eat, the common people naturally will not engage in unprofitable ventures

This is not his first time descending from the mountain; he feels no attachment to the lively scenes of Phoenix Gathering. With swift steps, he moves through the bustling crowd like a fish swimming in water, gliding effortlessly among the throngs of people. Though he seems to move slowly, he is actually quick, and in the blink of an eye, he has covered a considerable distance. A careful observation will reveal his distinctiveness.

Sun Ziming saw Xiao Yuesheng drink a bowl of wine and hurriedly accompanied him with a bowl of his own. However, his capacity for alcohol was limited, far from the vast tolerance of a Shandong man. After struggling to finish, he burped and replied, "Hmm, this place is indeed nice, the scenery is beautiful, very beautiful." Although he wished to offer more compliments, he found himself at a loss for words, unable to find any phrases of praise, and could only dryly say it was very beautiful

A few years ago, Li Mochou encountered the Eastern Heretic, Huang Yaoshi, at this location and was astounded by the power of his Finger Flicking Divine Skill, which is indeed a remarkable martial art unparalleled in the world. However, this time she witnessed a skill that, while similar in essence to the Finger Flicking Divine Skill, was incomparably more terrifying. The disparity was so vast that it filled her with a sense of helplessness, as if she were a mere two-foot child standing before a towering giant, utterly powerless.

Alas, this little rascal truly infuriates me! Brother, you have no idea, when this stubborn kid gets serious, no one can persuade him, and I don't even know who he takes after

Beneath the ancient tomb gate, there must be a beauty; Li Mochou truly lives up to the title of fairy

After the four of them finished their meal and exited the inn, Xiao Yuesheng called over a waiter to inquire about the teachings of Danyangzi, only to learn that it had occurred a month ago. It was said to have been an unprecedented event, and the waiter, still excited, described Ma Yu as a living immortal.

The old man in the west said, "Old Three, stop sighing and lamenting; it's not such a big deal!"

After several bowls, he remained unfazed, while Sun Ziming was already tipsy, his face flushed, his eyes hazy, and his mind somewhat unclear. Ignoring Sun Ziming, he continued to drink bowl after bowl, his stomach slightly bulging, yet still feeling no hint of intoxication. He truly sought to get drunk but could not achieve it. The inability to become intoxicated left him somewhat dissatisfied, and after each drinking session, he often contemplated adopting the name "Dugu Qiuzui" to express his solitude in seeking a drunken state that eluded him.

At this time, the Penglai Pavilion had been built for only a few decades. The literary giant Su Shi once served here for five days, leaving behind several essays that turned this place into a gathering spot for scholars and literati. Additionally, it is a Taoist paradise, with the Shangqing Palace, the Hall of Lü Zu, and the Temple of the Heavenly Mother, each housing Taoist priests and priestesses. It is common to see scholars and Taoists congregating and discussing matters everywhere.

The beautiful Taoist maiden, fond of singing the duet of the wild geese, was a hundred meters away, yet her voice remained as clear as if she were right beside him. At this moment, the landscape inevitably reminded him of the character Li Mochou from "The Return of the Condor Heroes"

However, as long as one is alive, he does not care what kind of world it is. Having experienced death, he truly understands how fortunate it is to be alive. Living is the most important thing; without life, everything is an illusion. Therefore, he diligently cultivates in hopes of achieving the path of immortality

The struggle for supremacy in the martial world seems lacking in challenge, while the ambition to dominate the world appears to be overreaching. Although Xiao Yuesheng does not understand martial arts techniques, he possesses extraordinary abilities, rendering martial arts moves to him as mere child’s play, posing no threat whatsoever. If he wishes to contend for dominance in the martial world, it is naturally not difficult; however, the ambition to conquer the world seems impractical. Heroes are born from the times; without chaos, there are no heroes rising to seize the moment. To engage in battle against the Mongols now? Such a suicidal act is something he would never consider.

Xiao Yue Sheng stood up, hands clasped behind his back, gazing up at the sky, wishing to recite a couple of elegant lines of poetry. Unfortunately, his mind was a blank, and he could not recall a single line. A gentle breeze arrived, the willow branches swayed lightly, and a moist, fresh breeze blew in from the lake, softly brushing against his cheek, bringing him immense comfort. Naturally, a line of poetry sprang to his lips: "The wind that blows on my face is not cold, it is the willow breeze!"

The elder facing north was startled by his fierce demeanor and dared not speak. The elder facing south raised his hand to gesture for calm and said, "Alright, alright, Second, don’t provoke Third; he’s not feeling well!"

During this period of hardship, he gained immensely. The Daoist texts that had been imprinted in his mind were now revisited as he had nothing else to do. He studied the Daoist arts extensively; some were applicable, while others were not, yet their power was considerable. Unfortunately, he could not utilize them, as they were too astonishing and unconventional. Moreover, with his current abilities, he was already capable of self-preservation. He also delved into the art of Qimen Dunjia, and having studied advanced mathematics, he found it not so difficult to comprehend. This profound numerical art allowed him to apply the knowledge from the world he was born into, which felt familiar, as if he had returned to the days of immersing himself in problem sets at school, enjoying it endlessly. Naturally, he became increasingly adept at the Qimen arts. If given the opportunity, he was determined to seek out Huang Laoxie for a discussion to assess his own level. He thought to himself that the desire to venture out was growing stronger, and it would surely be a joy to meet the heroes of the world.

Sun Ziming's face turned slightly red as he said, "I am a person of little knowledge and do not dare to speak recklessly; it sounds like a profound sentiment."

After finishing the incense offering, he turned to the young Taoist on his right, bowed respectfully, and said: "I am Xiao Yuesheng. I have come to meet the real person Danyangzi. I kindly request your permission to report this."

I put a large piece of beef into my mouth and chewed it vigorously a few times, saying, "Ziming, I have long yearned to visit Nanhu in Jiaxing. Now that I see it, it truly lives up to its reputation!"

Taoist cultivation places particularly stringent demands on a person's will. Before achieving the Golden Elixir, one is no different from an ordinary person, at most possessing a slightly stronger physique or having learned a few less powerful Taoist techniques. Various supernatural abilities can only manifest after the Golden Elixir is formed. However, most ordinary people will never achieve the Golden Elixir in their lifetime. Moreover, the requirements for one's mental state and understanding are even more rigorous. One's mind must be placed between action and non-action, and one must penetrate the mysteries of the universe and nature to attain the "Dao" in order to succeed. It is exceedingly difficult for anyone who is not exceptionally intelligent and resolutely determined to achieve this. According to Xiao Yuesheng's conjecture, Wang Chongyang also did not achieve the Golden Elixir. He entered the Dao through martial arts, but placed excessive emphasis on martial studies, expending too much energy, which can be described as a case of neglecting the root while pursuing the branches.

After descending the mountain, he first arrived at Phoenix Town and found an inn to stay in. With an ordinary appearance, having changed his attire, and deliberately altering his demeanor, he was difficult to notice in the crowd. He then indulged in food and drink, with half of his mind focused on the food and the other half on the conversations of others

The Seven Disciples of Quanzhen, regarded as the dragons and phoenixes among men, though slightly inferior in martial arts, are rare in their possession of the essence of Master Chongyang. Their Daoist scholarship is profound, earning them the admiration of many. Among the elders of the sect, Zhou Botong, known as the Old Child, possesses a childlike heart and exceptional martial skills, capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with the four great masters of the age. The renowned hero Guo Jing, known as Guo the Great Hero, once studied under the foremost of the Seven Disciples, Daoist Ma Yu, and has deep ties with the Quanzhen Sect. When matters arise concerning Quanzhen, he would not stand idly by, which is why few dare to provoke the Quanzhen Sect. Fortunately, the Seven Disciples of Quanzhen possess profound Daoist knowledge, are serene and harmonious, and maintain strict discipline among their disciples, who all embody a spirit of humility, leaving others in admiration.

The leader of the Quanzhen Sect is located on Zhongnan Mountain. In the past, Master Chongyang traveled the world and took in the Seven Disciples of Quanzhen in Shandong. Therefore, the Daoist teachings flourished in Shandong, with numerous temples and a great number of Daoists. For instance, the temple atop Phoenix Mountain naturally went unnoticed, and even a small Daoist there would be difficult to detect

A towering mountain stands majestically, its summit lush and verdant, with thriving vegetation. At the foot of the mountain, a clear stream winds around it like a jade belt. Unfortunately, the area surrounding the mountain is overgrown with weeds, devoid of human presence, resembling an uncivilized land. Occasionally, the sound of wild chickens and birds can be heard as the wind passes, adding a touch of life to this otherwise desolate scene

He bowed deeply in greeting, uttering no further words, and turned to leave. The young Taoist watched as Xiao Yuesheng's figure departed, feeling somewhat dazed. He could sense the extraordinary nature of the man who had just left, yet he found it impossible to articulate what made him so exceptional, which was indeed peculiar.

Xiao Yue nodded slightly and said, "It is quite rare for you to discern its meaning; come, let us continue drinking!" After saying this, he sat down, and Sun Ziming quickly poured wine into his bowl, then filled his own. The two clinked their bowls together and tilted their heads back to drink.

Walking and stopping, he quickly carried several large bags filled with daily necessities and food. Although the quantity was considerable, they were all inexpensive items, costing very little, which matched well with his somewhat tattered Daoist robe. Since the True Pure Sect was exempted from taxes after Changchun Zhenren met Genghis Khan, the temples under its jurisdiction thrived, ensuring that the Daoist priests of the True Pure Sect had no worries about food and clothing. Someone like him, at a glance, was clearly a wild Daoist, which was extremely rare in the territory of Dengzhou

Xiao Yue raised her eyebrows slightly, shaking her head in resignation and sighing, truly unfortunate to have missed it

"Is it not a big deal?!" He suddenly raised his head, his eyes red, and said fiercely, "The lineage of my family is about to be extinguished, and you still say it is not a big deal?!"

The ancient tomb sect's lightness skill is unparalleled in the world. Although Li Mochou is restrained in front of Xiao Yuesheng, it is primarily due to the vast difference between the two. Without his suppression, she exerts herself to break free, like a light cloud drifting away, swift and graceful, disappearing into the willow grove by the lakeside

The second elder saw the other three people's faces change dramatically and suddenly realized, quickly closing his mouth. The eldest elder smiled wryly and said, "Second elder, you are too reckless; how can you discuss the True Man of Danyang! Although the True Man of Danyang would not stoop to your level, the collective spittle of everyone could drown you. You truly do not discern the gravity of the situation! You, you, even in old age, cannot change this reckless nature of yours"

Xiao Yue Sheng was originally a person who existed in the year 2004, and this he remembers clearly. Although he now often feels like Zhuang Zhou dreaming of a butterfly, questioning whether he is truly awake or dreaming, he frequently wonders if he is actually a person of this world who merely had a dream in which he grew up in 2004. This is a question that should be simple, yet it is indeed perplexing, and because the matter is so extraordinary, it is difficult to even imagine in a dream.

Although he did not know what kind of world this was, the geographical location was quite similar to the original one. Living in the year 2000, his home was in Penglai City, so he was not too unfamiliar with the terrain here. After inquiring with the waiter and comparing it with his memories, he found that there had not been much change, which made him very happy

Since the Tang Dynasty, Taoism has flourished without decline. The Longhu Zhengyi, Gezao Lingbao, and Maoshan Shangqing are all major traditional sects of the talismanic system, while Zhengyi Dao holds the position of the supreme sect of Taoism. Since the Song Dynasty, although it has appeared to be in a weakened state, its profound heritage cannot be underestimated. During this period, various sects have emerged, with the most representative being the Northern sects of Taiyi Dao, Zhenyi Dao, and Quanzhen Dao, and the Southern sects of Jingming Dao and Qingwei Dao.

During the late spring season in the years of Emperor Lizong of the Southern Song Dynasty in Dengzhou, Shandong

After purchasing his items, he carried them back and, upon exiting Phoenix Gathering, found himself in a desolate wilderness. The grass grew abundantly, swaying in the breeze, creating a picturesque yet ancient scene. The Taoist, indifferent to the view, felt his stomach rumbling, and otherwise, he would not have wished to descend the mountain. At that moment, his mind was occupied with thoughts of what to prepare for lunch to reward himself.

The old man’s expression slightly cleared, and he sighed heavily, saying, "Well, well, at this point, there is nothing more to be done but to let it be!"

Xiao Yuesheng set down his bowl and chopsticks, took two steps forward to Li Mochou, cupped his hands in greeting, and lazily smiled, saying: "I am Xiao Yuesheng. Today, I am fortunate to behold the enchanting visage of the Crimson Serpent Fairy. It is a pleasure to meet you"

Therefore, regarding this matter, he is not in a hurry and wishes to wait and see if any good opportunity arises. If his grandson can take the initiative to plead, that would be the best outcome. If no good opportunity presents itself, then so be it.

Xiao Yue Sheng felt that every gesture and smile of hers was captivating; she was truly a stunning beauty. He smiled and said, "We have never met before, and there is no enmity between us. I have only heard that the Red Serpent Fairy is as beautiful as a flower yet ruthless in her actions. I feel a sense of regret and have come to offer some advice: do not take out your anger on others, as it only adds to the cycle of killing and may invite divine retribution"

The second brother said, "Alas, it is all this Danyang's fault for coming over to preach for no reason. Spring Breeze's nephew was misled and, in a moment of confusion, thought of becoming a Taoist priest."

Xiao Yue Sheng feigned indifference while eating, yet his ears were perked up, listening intently to every word. He felt a surge of joy in his heart; Dan Yang Zi, wasn't that the title of Ma Yu?

Upon careful observation of the source of the sound, I discovered, a hundred meters away, beneath a willow tree, a beautiful Taoist priestess clad in a bright yellow robe standing gracefully. She gazed at the shimmering surface of the lake, softly reciting: "What is love in this world, that it compels one to pledge life and death?" Her flower-like delicate face bore an expression of melancholy, rendering her exceptionally enchanting.

In the gentle breeze, Xiao Yue's flowing robe billowed gracefully, her demeanor serene, as if she were strolling through the wind, ethereal like an immortal. Observing the movement of Li Mochou's left hand, she seemed to defy gravity, transforming the impossible into the possible, gliding a foot sideways to evade several streaks of silver light. He had some understanding of Li Mochou; her techniques, such as the Dust Brush, Five Poisons Palm, and Ice Soul Silver Needle, were all lethal arts, and he had long been prepared for her Ice Soul Silver Needle.

In a time when the world was already in chaos, the number of mountain bandits gradually increased, especially in remote areas where they were as numerous as the hairs on a cow. At first, Xiao Yue Sheng found it amusing; he would playfully toy with them for a while, then give them a slight punishment, which he found quite entertaining. However, as time went on, it became increasingly tiresome. He resorted to drastic measures, taking them down before they could even speak, then jumped onto his carriage and left.

Xiao Yue shook his head slightly and smiled, saying: "This is a work by a friend from beyond the mundane world. The entire poem goes: 'In the shade of ancient trees, a short boat is tied; with a staff of bramble, I cross to the east of the bridge. The rain from the apricot blossoms threatens to wet my clothes, while the willow wind blows gently against my face.' What do you think? Please offer your appraisal." This was composed by Monk Zhiming, who did not even care to claim such a hollow reputation.

The second brother forced a few smiles, wore a苦 face, and continued to drink in silence

This mountain is seldom visited by people, with the nearest settlement being about seven or eight miles away, hence it is little known. Although it bears the name Phoenix Mountain, if you ask the locals where it is, eight or nine out of ten will shake their heads and respond, "What Phoenix Mountain is there here?!" The mountain has this name primarily because of a nearby small town called Phoenix Town, which is a vital passage for entering and exiting Kuaiji, exhibiting a rather prosperous atmosphere. At the summit of Phoenix Mountain, there is a dilapidated Taoist temple, where an old Taoist priest used to reside, spending his days cleaning and maintaining the place, and he could still be seen. However, since the old priest's passing, no one has come here again. Recently, though, a young Taoist priest has unexpectedly appeared.

The elder facing south said, "Old Three, there is no need for you to be so troubled. If this child, Spring Breeze, wishes to learn the way, then let him learn. You cannot stop him, and it would only harm the relationship between you and your son."

Li Mochou had never received such a gaze before. In recent years, her reputation in the martial world had grown immensely. The weak feared the strong, and everyone treated her with courtesy, not daring to provoke her, let alone face such unreasonable individuals. Anger welled up within her, and with a surge of unnamed fury, she flicked the silver whisk in her right hand towards Xiao Yuesheng.

The journey was slow and steady, and it eventually reached its conclusion. After nearly a month of travel, we have arrived at the Jiangsu and Zhejiang regions. Along the way, Xiao Yue Sheng could distinctly sense the differences between the North and the South. The mountains, waters, and people of the North exude a rugged spirit, while the mountains, waters, and people of the South radiate elegance and refinement. It is no wonder that since ancient times, Jiangnan has been home to many talented individuals; in such a spiritually vibrant place, it is only natural that many gifted people emerge.

"Exactly, exactly." The other two agreed.