In the fourth chapter, the path to immortality is elaborated from the beginning, as the transformation into a female form turns the world upside down

Having gone through a life-and-death battle together, the bond between the two had significantly deepened. Jiang Heng then recounted the experiences of the past few days and his confusions to Yuan Zhen in detail. In fact, these thoughts had been bottled up in his heart for a long time, and he had been unable to find someone to confide in. At that moment, he suddenly realized he could trust Yuan Zhen, and thus he poured out his emotions all at once.

These matters, of course, have not escaped the notice of the Lord of Annihilation. What intentions the Lord of Annihilation harbors in his heart cannot be confirmed by anyone, but it is evident that if a conflict arises between the Earth Sovereign and the Daoist Master, he will be the greatest beneficiary. Therefore, the Lord of Annihilation is also searching for the whereabouts of Pu Heng. However, the Earth Sovereign seeks him to inherit the throne, the Daoist Master seeks him to prevent Pu Hui from ascending, while the Lord of Annihilation seeks him to ensure he cannot return. Thus, the Lord of Annihilation is also searching for the whereabouts of Pu Heng. However, the Earth Sovereign seeks him to inherit the throne, the Daoist Master seeks him to prevent Pu Hui from ascending, while the Lord of Annihilation seeks him to ensure he cannot return.

The moment he thought of this, he couldn't help but break into a cold sweat, feeling anxious and uneasy. His most immediate reaction was to back out and find a way to escape this completely unfamiliar world. However, he had always been a man of his word, and he had never abandoned a promise once made.

As Yuan Zhen spoke up to this point, he suddenly trembled all over, his face turning pale. Jiang Heng, seeing this, exclaimed, "What is wrong with you?"

How may I assist you

What should we do then

I come from where I will return to

So those ugly people just now, and those two strange individuals, were sent by the Master of Extinction?

"Nonsense!" Jiang Heng pointed the tip of his sword at her chin, applying slight pressure upwards on her wrist, and commanded, "Lift your head!"

Are you going back? How will you go back?

The world in which Jiang Heng currently resides is governed by the Earth Sovereign, who, under the pretense of the Heavenly Emperor's authority, exercises a so-called magical power over his subjects. This magical power is, in name, the strongest and most formidable in this world. Among its most significant aspects are three special abilities: the creation of magical artifacts, the sealing of deities and the establishment of incantations. With these three abilities, he can control the operations of this world, and no one can escape his grasp.

The above represents a generally formal approach. Additionally, those who are unwilling to take orders from officials can also find a way out in the martial world. The martial world referred to here is conceptually similar to the one known to Jiang Heng, with the most significant difference being that the majority of martial practitioners here do not rely on physical force, but rather on magical abilities. Furthermore, in order to advance in their careers, one must also be adept in the use of spells, which results in a close integration between the martial world and society. Generally, parents are quite encouraging of their children pursuing a path in the martial world, as it is considered a part of normal life.

A fleeting glance revealed that under the moonlight, Yuan Zhen's face was as translucent and radiant as mutton-fat jade, truly exquisite and unparalleled. Jiang Heng was taken aback, drawing his sword swiftly and pressing it against Yuan Zhen's neck, demanding: "Who are you? Where is Yuan Zhen?"

"It really is me, let me explain..." Yuan Zhen raised his head as he spoke. After a slight hesitation, he turned his eyes and looked towards Jiang Heng

"It's really nothing, let's go back..." Yuan Zhen said, carrying Jiang Heng on his back, and turned to leave. Jiang Heng felt that something was off, and quickly stepped in front of Yuan Zhen.

Yuan Zhen called him back to sit properly and said, "You sit down first, I will tell you."

Yuan Zhen did not understand why he suddenly said this, and did not dare to respond. Jiang Heng continued, "This matter is somewhat incredible, but I will speak frankly with you!"

Yuan Zhen, after explaining the current state of affairs, appeared somewhat exhausted and was breathing heavily. Although Jiang Heng was concerned about his injuries, he was eager to know all the details immediately. He asked He Tushu, "What is the situation regarding the Fourth Prince you are looking for?"

After a while, Jiang Heng returned from the investigation, indicating that he had found the location. Although Yuan Zhen was pleased, his face still bore a look of great pain

It hurts so much... I can't take it anymore... I...

Are you really okay? Your voice sounds strange

Jiang Heng, intrigued by such a novel thing, couldn't help but lean in, hoping to hear more clearly

Damn it, Jiang Heng, what is wrong with you? Do you only dare to do things you are confident about? Where has that arrogance of yours, which you have always prided yourself on, gone? Or do you think that a promise made to a dead person does not count as a promise, and that no one would know if you go back on it?

The "Emperor" refers to the sovereign who rules over this realm, possessing an army and wielding the power of life and death, to whom all the subjects of the land must pay taxes and provide grain. The very need to explain the term "Emperor" sent a chill through Jiang Heng's heart

Jiang Heng still disagreed, but this was not the time for debate. After helping Yuan Zhen to sit properly on the stone, he obediently stepped aside. However, he did not dare to stray too far, lest an unexpected situation arise and he would be unable to respond in time

In fact, how could Sanzi be unworthy, and yet Puxuan remain unaware? However, the fourth son, Puheng, had already embarked on a journey of wandering at the age of five due to his celestial fate, and this year he is approximately fourteen or fifteen years old, yet no one knows where to find him. As for the fifth son, Puhai, he is only six years old this year. This situation is somewhat urgent for Puxuan, who has been bedridden for many years; even if he truly wishes to support him, the future will still be fraught with peril.

However, a man is still a man, and a woman is still a woman; looking alike does not mean they are the same person. Jiang Heng was momentarily taken aback, then said: "That is because your witchcraft is not refined enough, and you cannot fully transform into the appearance of another person."

Are you saying that Yuan Zhen was originally a woman

However, Sanzi Puhui's cultivation is insufficient, his character is erratic, and his talents and virtues do not meet public expectations, which has led to widespread criticism. Especially Daozun, whose abilities and prestige rival those of the Earth Sovereign, had long declared that on the day Puyi encountered misfortune, if Puhui were to ascend the throne, he would spare no effort to replace him.

After Jiang Heng explained, he countered by asking what exactly the other person knew. In comparing their perspectives, they realized that both were completely unaware of each other's worlds, as if they came from two different nations, living under entirely different sets of laws and customs

No! Yuan Zhen was greatly astonished and said: "Since you claim to be here on behalf of that so-called Fourth Prince, then you should stay here."

Jiang Heng blamed his own cowardice. Although the situation might have escalated to a point beyond his control, in another context, was he not resolutely confronting the highest authority of the time? At that moment, he did not act out of certainty; he was driven by a single word: righteousness, unwavering in his commitment, and nothing more.

With a slight calmness in my mood, the chaotic thoughts of the past few days suddenly surged to the forefront of my mind. Jiang Heng sat at a distance, and various strange images of the Fourth Prince before his death kept appearing before my eyes. In retrospect, everything still seems so incredible, yet it completely aligns with all that I have witnessed over the past few days.

Jiang Heng's gaze was captivated by this unprecedented phenomenon. Just as he was lost in thought, another flash of light descended from the sky, striking the phoenix pearl directly. The pearl shimmered alternately in shades of blue and red, rapidly changing several times in an instant. Suddenly, all the light in the world vanished without a trace, and the surroundings quickly darkened, causing the phoenix pearl to fall from mid-air.

What is this? Is it poisonous?

Do not call me the Fourth Prince, just call me Jiang Heng

Jiang Heng vaguely saw Yuan Zhen reaching out to retrieve the Phoenix Pearl, and thought to himself: "Has he completed his training?" At that moment, he also recalled that Yuan Zhen had instructed him to stay away.

Jiang Heng immediately promised and quickly got up, using his lightness skill to search everywhere. Yuan Zhen, seeing him move like the wind, was puzzled and thought: "Without any magical powers, how is this possible?"

Our Earth Sovereign derives his power from the Celestial Emperor. Under the protection of the Celestial Emperor, the Earth Sovereign rules this world, and the people are required to pay taxes and provide grain, bearing various burdens. All central and local officials at various levels are not appointed through examinations or imperial examinations

This woman is truly beautiful, but at this moment, the more beautiful she is, the more dangerous she becomes. "What have you done to Yuan Zhen? Speak!" Monsters and demons are said to eat people, a tale one hears from childhood. In real life, he may not believe in monsters and demons, but in this place, such things might very well be lurking about.

Jiang Heng originally intended to scold her for her nonsense. However, in this unfamiliar world, astonishing events continued to unfold, and Jiang Heng subtly realized that perhaps this was indeed possible

Hmm... Yuan Zhen Dao: "You have already witnessed the homegrown skill of the Earthly Concealment Technique. The other two, one holding a bronze gong is Jin Ao, and the one with a bronze bell is Jin Fang. They may not look alike, but they are brothers. Hehe... Although the subordinates of the Lord of Annihilation are numerous, finding a person who has been missing for ten years and knows nothing is quite a challenge, so they had no choice but to send someone to follow me. A few days ago, I discovered them, and after a disagreement, we ended up in a fierce fight. Although the Lord of Annihilation has many subordinates, finding a person who has been missing for ten years and knows nothing is still a challenge, so they had to send someone to follow me. A few days ago, I discovered them, and after a disagreement, we ended up in a fierce fight. I didn't expect that they couldn't defeat me openly, so they resorted to underhanded tactics against me. That day, I was captured by the Red Sheep Sect, and... it was then that I fell victim to their underhanded schemes..."

Since there are righteous sects, there are also corresponding evil cults. Currently, in the world of Yuanzhen, the most powerful and secretive organization, known as the "Divine Deer Cult," is led by a mysterious figure called "Master Miedu." Although there are not many rumors about him, it is generally believed that his magical powers are on par with those of the Daoist Master.

The Fourth Prince is indeed you, and this is beyond doubt

Then how can that be... Yan Zhen immediately had a change of thought and said: "That is true, the title 'Fourth Prince' is too ostentatious. Otherwise... otherwise, I will just call you Fourth Master instead..."

Yuan Zhen was afraid that he would leave with a wave of his sleeve, so he insisted that he sit down first before he would speak. Jiang Heng, feeling helpless, had no choice but to comply and take a seat.

As night fell, Jiang Heng sought lodging with a farmer, offering a few pieces of broken silver in exchange for some food. The farmer declined the payment and instead provided half a pot of rice, a large bowl of bean sprouts and greens, as well as half a pot of tofu and pork soup. Yuan Zhen was merely fatigued and had sustained some minor injuries, but he was still able to eat. After everyone had their fill, they sat outside the courtyard to rest.

With a firm resolve, he suddenly felt at ease. Jiang Heng rediscovered the spirited feeling of the past and felt even more convinced that his decision was a good one. At that moment, a flash of light suddenly streaked across the sky, followed by a thunderous clap in the air, the sound suggesting it had struck right before him

Thus, the Earth Sovereign dispatched individuals to search for his fourth son, Pu Heng. Meanwhile, upon learning of the Earth Sovereign's intentions, the Daoist Master also took the initiative to assist in the search. However, a month ago, the Earth Sovereign's condition worsened. After careful consideration, he ultimately bestowed the title of Crown Prince upon Pu Hui. At the same time, he invoked all his magical powers to cast a spell, compelling Pu Hui to swear an oath that if he were to find his brother Pu Heng and bring him back, he would certainly relinquish the throne to him; otherwise, he would face divine retribution and eternal damnation, never to be reborn.

Yuan Zhen has possessed this ability since childhood; as long as the same gender is maintained for more than seven days and nights, one can freely change to the opposite gender. My male form has been cursed and is difficult to restore. As long as I transform into a female form and do not sustain any injuries within seven days and nights, I can heal without medication

Jiang Heng was annoyed that she underestimated herself too much. The tip of the sword in his hand gradually moved down along her delicate neck, gently slipping into her collar, then further down, parting her collar to reveal the skin of her chest. One could see that her breasts were already quite full and rounded, even just one side. How could it still be pretended? The woman was greatly embarrassed and hurriedly reached to pull at her collar to prevent any exposure of her springtime beauty. One could see that her breasts were already quite full and rounded, even just one side. How could it still be pretended? The woman was greatly embarrassed and hurriedly reached to pull at her collar to prevent any exposure of her springtime beauty.

Fourth Master, I am truly Yuan Zhen. If you do not believe me, you may test me.

Yuan Zhen ... ... Are you alright?

Peeking at others practicing is a major taboo in the martial arts world, and it is likely the same when it comes to practicing spells. Jiang Heng felt extremely embarrassed; although given his current situation, it was absolutely impossible for him to learn any spells just by stealing a glance, the other party had clearly stated the rules, and he was the one being overly curious. This was quite a blunder. Helpless, he could only try to act natural and approached to greet, "Are you feeling better?"

What is an emperor? This was the first question of Yuan Zhen

Where is Taiyuan? Where is the Yellow River?

Yuan Zhen continued to narrate the current situation of the Earth Emperor. It turns out that the so-called Earth Emperor, like the emperor known to Jiang Heng, although claiming to be ordained by heaven, enjoys powers that can be passed down through generations. The current Earth Emperor, Pu Quan, has a total of five sons and two daughters. The eldest son, Pu Gong, died young, and the second son, Pu Yi, unexpectedly passed away last year due to an accident. According to the order of seniority, the third son, Pu Hui, should be established as the heir to the throne.

Seeing her bashful appearance, Jiang Heng couldn't help but feel a stir within. However, he quickly steadied his mind, pointing the tip of his sword upwards, pressing against her delicate neck, and said: "You have no Adam's apple, yet possess the bosom of a woman. If you do not speak the truth, do not blame me for being impolite!"

Your voice is different now; how can you possibly deceive me?

After obtaining the qualification for the examination, one only needs to pass three additional levels set by the chief examiner to receive the official title. Based on ability, performance, and special expertise, individuals will be assigned to various positions in different regions or appointed to central offices. In this way, one can achieve success and fame, ensuring a lifetime of financial security.

No, the characteristics you possess are exactly as described by the Daoist Master. The Daoist Master did not instruct otherwise, so you are indeed the person I have been waiting for. If you leave like this, what are we to do

"It can also be said that..." The woman showed a troubled expression and said, "Oh dear, fine, I will speak frankly to Master Si. Yuan Zhen is neither male nor female; conversely, he is both male and female..."

Once one feels that their magical power is sufficient, they may participate in the competition held every three years in front of the Supreme Hall of the Earth Palace. Prior to the competition, a qualification test will be conducted, where all participants will be grouped by drawing lots, competing against each other in an elimination format to secure one of the limited twenty to thirty qualifying spots.

Before the Fourth Prince passed away, he clearly knew that it was a momentary lapse on my part, which is why he made me swear to fulfill his wishes.

Jiang Heng ran forward at full speed, while Yuan Zhen continuously offered guidance. After an unknown amount of time, they finally emerged from the dense forest and followed a small path through the fields, arriving at a small village.

Jiang Heng's entire body trembled as he beheld the person before him, who claimed to be Yuan Zhen. The two large, bright eyes sparkled with life, and the long eyelashes fluttered as if they were speaking. Furthermore, her beautifully arched eyebrows and cherry-like lips clearly marked her as an undeniable beauty. Although Yuan Zhen was indeed quite delicate in appearance, there was still a certain masculine vigor about him. How could he appear so coy? Moreover, having spent considerable time together, there had been numerous instances of physical contact; how could he not discern whether this person was male or female? Although Yuan Zhen was indeed quite delicate in appearance, there was still a certain masculine vigor about him. How could he appear so coy? Moreover, having spent considerable time together, there had been numerous instances of physical contact; how could he not discern whether this person was male or female?

In addition to claiming to have 9,000 followers, the Divine Deer Sect naturally attracts various gangs and factions that share similar interests, seeking to affiliate and support, willingly becoming their wings. The Red Sheep Sect is one such group.

Jiang Heng felt so troubled for the first time, and it was also the first time he sensed the fear deep within his heart. However, after just a short while, he made his decision

Fourth Master, I am Yuan Zhen... Yuan Zhen's body trembled, becoming completely stiff, unable to move.

If Yuan Zhen suffers from internal injuries, regardless of their severity, as long as he can still speak, he is confident he can suppress the injury until he finds a doctor or a solution. However, he is completely ignorant of what kind of incantation this is.

Jiang Heng was taken aback and hurriedly rushed forward. He saw that Yuan Zhen, for some unknown reason, had already stripped off all his clothes and was sitting on a stone, completely exposed, motionless and facing away from him.

Yuan Zhen seemed to move slightly, but did not respond. Jiang Heng recalled Yuan Zhen's instructions and judged that he should be fine, so he began to step back slowly. At that moment, a soft glow began to rise in front of Yuan Zhen. Jiang Heng focused his gaze and saw that it was the Fire Feather Phoenix Pearl, gently ascending just a foot in front of him, rising all the way to above his head

"Silence, enchantress!"

Only then did Yuan Zhen put on his clothes properly and tidy himself up before saying: "Fourth Master, I am fine now, you may return to rest."

Yuan Zhen Dao: "I wish to practice... please allow the Fourth Prince to step aside..."

In the realm of martial arts, there exist various sects. These sects are often referred to as "schools," "palaces," "altars," or "halls" due to their teachings of spells. As they are not officially sanctioned, the quality of instruction varies greatly, and there are distinctions between righteous and evil practices. Generally, the smaller the sect, the more limited the spells they can teach, with their magical tools often numbering only two or three types, or even just one available for cultivation. Conversely, larger sects tend to have a broader range of teachings.

No... it is not poison... this is called the 'Curse of Loss'... Yuan Zhen withdrew his hand and explained: 'It is specifically used to prevent magical artifacts from being stolen... a type of spell to prevent theft... I didn't expect the spell of the Master of Extinction to be so powerful, just a touch and...

It is generally believed that the reason the Earth Sovereign made such a heavy oath to Puhui was largely for the sake of Daozun. Indeed, upon learning that the position of the Crown Prince had been determined, Daozun was furious and on the verge of erupting. However, upon hearing the Earth Sovereign's incantation, his emotions calmed down. This was because he understood that the Earth Sovereign possessed the ability to establish incantations, and once an oath was made, it had to be fulfilled. Therefore, he decided to give the Earth Sovereign an opportunity to continue searching for the whereabouts of Puheng before Puhui's ascension.

Seeing this, Jiang Heng helped him up. In the countryside, it was not difficult to find a secluded spot. After walking for quite a while, they finally arrived at the place Jiang Heng had found.

In the world where Yuan Zhen resides, every person is protected by the magical power of the Earth Sovereign from the moment of their birth. A child with a natural affinity for magic and wisdom will begin to reveal their special abilities before the age of eight or nine. At this time, their parents can take them to the Baoding Guan in various counties across the nation to be evaluated by the temple master.

You speak incessantly of the esteemed and the lesser, but who exactly is this person? Is he a deity? Furthermore, what exactly do you want me to do? Am I really that important?

Under the moonlight, Yuan Zhen was seen busily putting on clothes with a book in hand. Jiang Heng was unsure if it was an optical illusion or something else, but suddenly felt an indescribable softness about Yuan Zhen in the moonlight. However, this thought was fleeting; he took a couple of steps forward and said, "I just saw a flash of light and thought something had happened, so I came a little closer. But rest assured, I didn't see anything."

The Daoist Master is recognized as the most powerful in terms of magical abilities and the highest in Daoist cultivation among many prestigious sects. Under his leadership, the Haotian Palace even possesses the capability to create new magical artifacts and compile new spells, with the only distinction from the Earth Sovereign being the inability to "seal gods and establish talismans"

I want to go back ... ... " Jiang Heng suddenly stood up, murmuring somewhat absentmindedly: " I want to go back ... ... I want to go back ... ... "

As Yuan Zhen heard Jiang Heng's footsteps coming from the left rear, he simultaneously turned half a circle to the right, as if trying to avoid him. Jiang Heng was taken aback and stopped in his tracks

I just heard you describe the so-called 'Emperor's' power, and I thought about it; we have a similar figure here, though he is not called an emperor, but rather a 'Dihuang' (Earth Emperor). In my understanding, he is the supreme ruler of this realm

The two exchanged glances, a moment of silence ensued, leaving them unsure of how to continue the conversation

But I am not the person you are truly looking for

Help me find a place where there are no people, a... a place where I can observe celestial phenomena, a secluded spot... a quiet place without anyone...

The head of each county's Baoding Temple is essentially the local magistrate, who must possess considerable magical abilities to be appointed. After assessing the abilities of children, he recommends them for certificates, which allow them to practice in various temples and altars. Around the age of fifteen, if they have achieved proficiency in their studies, they can participate in the annual examinations held at Baoding Temple.

Jiang Heng noticed that Yuan Zhen's strength was gradually increasing, so he spoke to him: "Yuan Zhen, I had some misunderstandings about you before. I, Jiang, would like to apologize to you here."

The woman felt a slight pain in her neck and realized she had been stabbed and was bleeding. She hurriedly said, "Fourth Master, look at my face, could it be... could it be that I bear no resemblance to Yuan Zhen at all?"

Isn't that the place where Yuan Zhen practices his skills

The examination is based on the incantations established by the Earth Sovereign. Upon passing the examination, one may select a magical artifact that has been empowered by the Earth Sovereign. From that point on, the artifact will accompany the individual for a lifetime, and its magical power will increase or decrease in accordance with the practitioner's cultivation.

Jiang Heng took his hand, rolled up his sleeve, and was astonished to find that the area where he had just used his arm to block the dirt had turned a deep shade of dark green.

The more Yuan Zhen listened, the more astonished he became, and the more confused he felt. He understood the latter part regarding the Red Sheep Sect, the Iron Bagua, and so on, but the earlier part, about how the current emperor wanted to kill his own brother, which led to his being entrusted with the protection of the Fourth Prince, and the ensuing pursuit... He lost his way after traveling west from the fief, passing through Taiyuan, crossing the Lüliang Mountains, and fording the Yellow River... It was simply incomprehensible. He lost his way after traveling west from the fief, passing through Taiyuan, crossing the Lüliang Mountains, and fording the Yellow River... It was simply incomprehensible

If I cannot transform into the true form of Yuan Zhen, why should I change? And why should I force myself to wear his clothes? Fourth Master, I am Yuan Zhen!

You... you don't come over yet...

Hu ... ... speaks nonsense ... ...

Hearing her words, Jiang Heng was suddenly awakened from his reverie. It turned out that the woman before him bore a striking resemblance to Yuan Zhen in terms of her overall features. If one were to say she was Yuan Zhen's sister, it would be hard for anyone to doubt it

Yuan Zhen felt quite touched to see that he truly cared about her, and said: "It's... it's alright, I have... I have my own ways..."

Yes, that's right... Jiang Heng made up his mind: "Fourth Prince, rest assured, I, Jiang Heng, will definitely fulfill the promise I made to you"