Chapter 370 ·The Zhao Sisters

Outside the main hall of the Xuanyin Pavilion’s main peak.

On the spacious high platform, one Qi Refinement cultivator after another rubbed their fists eagerly in preparation. Some were excited, wanting to display themselves before the Sect Master and elders.

Others felt nervous and uneasy.

This grand competition was not merely about victory or defeat—

It was a choice regarding their future.

The victors would receive Foundation Establishment Pills as rewards.

The defeated could only helplessly watch their Foundation Establishment opportunities pass them by. Though unwilling, they could only blame their own insufficient strength.

After all, everyone had been given the opportunity.

Besides cultivation, one’s family foundation also counted as part of one’s strength.

Foundation Establishment cultivators all around presided over the grand competition, while some secretly commented on the participants.

“It truly brings back memories. Back then, we also walked this same path.”

Li Tianmo spoke melancholically, while Zhou Bingxuan beside him also nodded.

“Yes, in the blink of an eye, we’ve already been here for nearly a hundred years.”

Over the years, they had escorted merchant ships and returned to the Yue Kingdom to visit their homeland, yet those past events remained vivid in their minds.

Now they too had cultivated into another realm—

Late Foundation Establishment.

And now, in scheming for Core Formation opportunities, they were actually not much different from the Qi Refinement cultivators below struggling for Foundation Establishment opportunities.

Beside the two, Shen Zhuang stared solemnly below before speaking in a deep voice:

“Yes. We’ve already been here nearly a hundred years. But after another hundred years, what kind of scenery will await us?”

Would they stand high above as Core Formation True Masters, seated atop the sect platform as those in power?

Or would they become old and decrepit, enviously gazing upon the new generation of cultivators?

Even steady and practical Shen Zhuang held an obsession toward Core Formation deep within his heart.

Or rather, within the cultivation world, no cultivator capable of reaching Late Foundation Establishment could possibly remain willing to never scheme for a Core Formation opportunity.

The three each held different thoughts.

Yet when planning for Core Formation opportunities, their gazes still involuntarily drifted toward the sect platform.

Shen Zhuang and Li Tianmo secretly glanced at Zhou Bingxuan with envy.

The Zhou Clan’s foundation far surpassed theirs.

As long as they paid a certain price, trading for a Core Formation opportunity would not be difficult.

Yet the two did not know that Zhou Bingxuan currently carried crushing pressure within her heart.

The resources required for a single Core Formation spirit item would nearly empty her clan completely.

If she failed, she did not even dare imagine the consequences.

Every person’s environment and burdens were different.

……

Meanwhile atop the high platform, Lin Chang’an calmly watched the Qi Refinement cultivators below battling one another, occasionally nodding secretly.

Although Qi Refinement cultivators appeared like children playing around in his eyes, if one observed carefully, many cultivators still possessed noteworthy qualities.

“The foundation of sect cultivators far surpasses ordinary rogue cultivators. Likewise, even within sects there are distinctions between upper and lower ranks.

“Some Qi Refinement cultivators possess full sets of high-grade magical artifacts.

“Meanwhile, some Qi Refinement cultivators are clearly not weak, yet only possess a single high-grade magical artifact.”

Lin Chang’an secretly shook his head.

This was the reality of the cultivation world.

A sect giving everyone an opportunity was already the greatest fairness possible.

It could not be that just because you bitterly cultivated for decades, you could resentfully shout: why can they rely upon their fathers and ancestors?

You cultivated bitterly for decades—

But did generations of accumulated effort from their families not also count as bitter cultivation?

Once you yourself became a Foundation Establishment cultivator, wouldn’t your descendants become exactly the targets of resentment you once envied?

“Sect competitions are also observations of temperament. If someone possesses firm willpower, the sect will likely still grant them Foundation Establishment opportunities afterward.

“But if their temperament is unstable and they constantly blame the heavens and resent others, then even if they luckily win the grand competition and succeed in Foundation Establishment, the sect likely won’t devote many resources toward them.”

Lin Chang’an’s gaze swept across the scene.

The Xuanyin Pavilion had developed quite well over these years. There were far more disciples now compared to that grand competition from the past.

Especially disciples with decent talent—there were many more of them.

“Fellow Daoist Lin, look at the person currently on stage. Although he will definitely lose this grand competition, his eyes contain only a trace of helplessness without many distracting thoughts.

“The Sect Master cultivates a special cultivation method capable of sensing others’ mental states, thereby determining whether a person harbors malicious intentions…”

Beside him, Liu Ruyu continuously explained matters, clearly cultivating some kind of Divine Sense cultivation method.

Yet Lin Chang’an, who understood things clearly, merely smiled and nodded.

At this moment, he felt that the cultivation method Fairy of Rainbow Skirt cultivated truly had been entirely for the sect’s sake from the beginning.

Powerful strength among those of the same realm, along with this perception divine ability, could completely avoid many disasters and greatly benefit the sect’s future development.

“No wonder the sect has grown increasingly prosperous over these years. It seems Fellow Daoist Nishang truly has sacrificed much for the sect.”

Lin Chang’an nodded without revealing his understanding of that cultivation method.

Liu Ruyu likewise smiled and nodded.

Over these years, the Sect Master alone had supported everything.

Now the sect flourished, and there were already many Core Formation prospects within the sect.

Hopefully, several more Core Formation cultivators would emerge afterward, allowing the sect’s inheritance to continue properly.

“This person only won once, yet already acts arrogantly. Even if he successfully establishes his foundation in the future, his achievements will likely remain limited.”

Liu Ruyu continuously explained the disciples’ situations to him below.

This was also a form of trust.

Lin Chang’an understood this clearly.

Over this hundred years within the Xuanyin Pavilion, although he had tried his best to avoid becoming too deeply entangled—

He had to admit, staying here truly felt comfortable.

The sect flourished vibrantly.

If he did not pursue the Great Dao, the Xuanyin Pavilion truly would have been an excellent destination.

……

Meanwhile, as the sect grand competition continued, Fairy of Rainbow Skirt also nodded in satisfaction repeatedly.

The sect’s development was excellent.

As long as this time they could add two or three more Core Formation cultivators—

Then if she later truly entered the Secret Realm to scheme for opportunities, she could do so with peace of mind.

“Sect Master Nishang, your esteemed sect’s development over these years has truly been excellent. Among the surrounding seas, your sect likely already ranks first.”

Upon the viewing platform, amid everyone’s discussions, Meng Xinghai maintained the demeanor of a gentle gentleman as he smiled and praised them.

However, before Fairy of Rainbow Skirt could respond, Xu Lingfeng beside her raised his brows and waved his hand impatiently with a smile.

“Island Lord Meng flatters us. Our sect’s development until now absolutely cannot bear the title of first place. Looking back at how powerful the Long Clan once was, did they not still decline eventually?”

Damn it.

Knowing full well our sect grand competition is occurring, yet he still shamelessly shows up.

If not because of the Core Formation spirit item trade, he would’ve thrown him out long ago.

Xu Lingfeng cursed inwardly.

Meanwhile, although Meng Xinghai maintained his gentle smile, coldness had already risen within his heart.

He had anticipated many difficulties in pursuing Fairy of Rainbow Skirt.

The only thing he had never expected—

Was that the greatest obstacle would actually be this pile of dog shit.

Too disgusting!

Meanwhile, watching this scene, Lin Chang’an inwardly rejoiced at another’s misfortune.

Back then, Xu Lingfeng had guarded against him like a thief.

Fortunately, he spent most of his time in secluded cultivation and never shamelessly clung around, so he had never received this treatment.

Now Fellow Daoist Meng was truly enjoying it fully.

Meng Xinghai inhaled deeply.

Facing Xu Lingfeng’s face, which currently disgusted him immensely, he smiled and said:

“Fellow Daoist Xu, this time my visit is also to discuss Core Formation spirit items with your esteemed sect. You know as well that the current situation is turbulent. Core Formation spirit items are extremely sought after on the market now.”

In one sentence, he directly clarified his purpose.

Yet the hidden meaning behind his words caused Xu Lingfeng to feel stifled.

Damn petty villain.

Using this to pressure him.

Meanwhile, from beginning to end, Meng Xinghai maintained his gentle smile while his gaze remained fixed upon Fairy of Rainbow Skirt, the Xuanyin Pavilion’s Sect Master.

“Sect Master Nishang, if my Meng Clan joins hands with the Xuanyin Pavilion, we would possess the strength to protect ourselves amid these troubled times. There are even Secret Realm opportunities involved.

“I can even seek a clue regarding a fragmentary Secret Realm map from my master.”

When mentioning the fragmentary Secret Realm map and the opportunities within the Secret Realm, he did not avoid the Core Formation cultivators present at all.

After all, the rumors had already spread throughout the outside world.

So he simply laid everything out openly.

This scene caused Xu Lingfeng’s face to turn iron-green and ugly.

This person truly was shameless.

Yet Meng Xinghai’s sincerity could not be faulted.

Core Formation spirit items, Secret Realm opportunities, even fragmentary maps—

Everything could be shared.

However, Fairy of Rainbow Skirt merely smiled calmly and nodded lightly.

“Fellow Daoist Meng jests. My Xuanyin Pavilion is merely a small sect. If not for the poisonous miasma catastrophe in our homeland, we never would’ve traveled tens of thousands of miles to this place.

“In the future, the Xuanyin Pavilion will ultimately return to its homeland. As for these Secret Realm opportunities, they were obtained by Fellow Daoist Meng’s ancestors. I would not dare covet them.”

That same excuse again!

Hearing these words, Meng Xinghai felt incomparably stifled inside.

Was his sincerity still not enough?

Meanwhile, Fairy of Rainbow Skirt inwardly sneered.

Although the other party appeared well-intentioned, in truth he was merely leaving a retreat path for his clan.

Moreover, his motives were impure.

Although the greedy feeling from before had disappeared, she could still sense that the Secret Realm opportunities he spoke of clearly carried malicious intent.

She absolutely did not wish to invite a wolf into the sect.

As Fairy of Rainbow Skirt revealed this rejecting attitude, Xu Lingfeng inwardly rejoiced.

“Oh right, Fellow Daoist Lin, do you know the people who sold spirit mine information to our Seven Kingdoms Alliance within the Fog Sea of Tongtian?”

Xu Lingfeng suddenly turned toward Lin Chang’an.

Lin Chang’an appropriately revealed curiosity.

Throughout the entire exchange, he had maintained a cold expression toward Meng Xinghai.

After all, the grievance between them due to Sword Attendant had already been publicly established.

Moreover, a mere Meng Xinghai still did not qualify to make him act timid.

“Oh? I had heard some rumors previously. Those fellow daoists hunt Sinister Spirit Beast Kings within the Fog Sea of Tongtian year-round and are extremely familiar with the region. They also possess quite a few Core Formation spirit items.”

“Exactly. Previously, our Seven Kingdoms Alliance contacted them and already began discussing trades regarding Core Formation spirit items.”

Lin Chang’an revealed sudden understanding.

At this point, the atmosphere atop the viewing platform had already become obvious.

The Xuanyin Pavilion stood united and absolutely refused an alliance with the Meng Clan.

After all, Sword Attendant was ultimately still a member of the Xuanyin Pavilion and even received guest elder offerings.

Back then, the Meng Clan’s assassination attempt—

If not for True Lord Lu’s reputation, the two sides would practically count as mortal enemies.

Throughout the entire exchange, Meng Xinghai maintained his smile without saying more.

Yet the tightly clenched fists hidden from view revealed his true emotions.

He had miscalculated!

But it did not matter.

Besides the Xuanyin Pavilion, there were many other factions willing to cooperate.

After the sect grand competition ended, Meng Xinghai conducted a goods transaction with the Xuanyin Pavilion.

Yet it only involved ordinary goods.

The previously discussed Core Formation spirit items were never mentioned again, nor did the Xuanyin Pavilion raise the topic.

Since an alliance could not be formed, he naturally would not cheaply benefit others with those Core Formation spirit items.

Afterward, this Island Lord Meng directly led his subordinates toward the Four Seas Merchant Guild without hiding from anyone.

……

Inside the Xuanyin Pavilion’s main hall.

“Greetings Sect Master and elders!”

At this moment, seven Foundation Establishment cultivators stood within the hall, respectfully bowing.

Lin Chang’an was likewise present and naturally understood clearly that these seven were the Xuanyin Pavilion’s current Core Formation prospects.

“Fellow Daoist Lin, over these years the sect has accumulated several Core Formation spirit items. These seven disciples possess clean backgrounds and strong loyalty toward the sect.

“This time I’ve decided to grant them Core Formation spirit items and have them begin preparing for secluded cultivation. At the same time, I’d also like to borrow Fellow Daoist Lin’s Celestial Spring Peak.”

Fairy of Rainbow Skirt smiled lightly.

Lin Chang’an likewise nodded in agreement.

Seven Core Formation cultivators—

Who knew whether they might form cores simultaneously?

If three or four attempted breakthroughs together, even that would produce slight interference.

At the same time, there was another intention—

Allowing the new generation of cultivators to establish positive karma with him.

If someone successfully formed a core upon his spiritual peak, that too counted as favorable karma.

“Not bad. These seven possess solid foundations and good talent.”

Regarding sect affairs, Lin Chang’an never interfered, lest mundane matters entangle him and affect his cultivation.

However, while sensing the seven and observing their identities, Lin Chang’an’s gaze flickered.

This Fellow Daoist Nishang had not selected the seven with the highest talent.

Yet without question, these seven possessed the strongest loyalty toward the sect.

Among them, four possessed no family burdens whatsoever, while the other three came from insignificant families.

Fairy of Rainbow Skirt did not hide this.

To put it plainly, she feared the future emergence of one overwhelmingly dominant family manipulating sect利益 for their own clan.

Only after the seven received Core Formation spirit items did they reveal excited expressions and bow respectfully.

Afterward, Lin Chang’an chatted smilingly with everyone before departing with two individuals.

Whether intentional or not by Fellow Daoist Nishang—

The disciples assigned to Celestial Spring Peak for secluded breakthrough cultivation were a pair of female twin cultivators.

The sisters cultivated同源 cultivation methods and a Dual Cultivation Secret Technique.

If they formed cores together, their success rate would increase by half a tenth.

……

On the journey back, the Azure-Horned Bull stepped through the air as they sped onward.

“Senior Sisters!”

Facing the twin female cultivators, Li Tianmo, Zhou Bingxuan, and Shen Zhuang all revealed envy.

They knew clearly that the two senior sisters following Elder Granduncle back this time were likely about to enter secluded Core Formation cultivation.

“Junior Brothers and Junior Sister are too polite.”

Upon the broad back of the Azure-Horned Bull, perhaps due to their cultivation methods, the two women maintained appearances around sixteen years old, both wearing purple palace robes.

The sisters were Zhao Lingyue and Zhao Lingxing.

Although their appearances were identical, one could distinguish them instantly at a glance.

The elder sister Zhao Lingyue possessed a trace of gentleness between her brows. Her personality was excellent, making her very popular within the sect.

Meanwhile, the younger sister Zhao Lingxing, although deliberately trying to imitate her elder sister’s steadiness, still possessed lively brows and sparkling eyes that occasionally secretly glanced toward Lin Chang’an’s back ahead.

“Elder Sister, no wonder the sect keeps spreading rumors that even the Sect Master admires Elder Lin. Not only is his strength extraordinary, even his bearing is exceptional.”

“Younger Sister, don’t gossip behind people’s backs.”

The sisters secretly transmitted their voices, though ultimately Zhao Lingyue secretly glared at her somewhat mischievous younger sister.

Meanwhile, Lin Chang’an standing atop the Azure-Horned Bull merely smiled and shook his head.

This Fellow Daoist Nishang truly separated public and private matters clearly.

She did not conceal the methods she should use whatsoever.

After all, what formed good karma more easily than female cultivators?

Lin Chang’an naturally knew about this pair of sisters.

Their parents had originally been rogue cultivators from the Yue Kingdom. Their family background was clean, and the sisters’ aptitudes were not poor either—both possessed high-grade spiritual roots.

One could say they had been personally cultivated by the sect from the beginning and possessed extremely strong loyalty toward it.

“Master, these two?”

Sword Attendant softly inquired from behind.

Lin Chang’an lightly nodded.

“You may arrange matters yourself.”

“Yes, Master!”

As for the Three Juniors behind him, Lin Chang’an pondered briefly before secretly nodding.

“You three should cultivate diligently. Whether you can form cores in the future will depend upon your own fortunes.”

The three, who had originally envied the Zhao Sisters, suddenly heard Lin Chang’an’s voice transmission in their ears and immediately revealed excited expressions.

“Many thanks, Elder Granduncle/Senior Lin!”

Regarding Zhou Bingxuan, the Zhou Clan had offered considerable tribute over these years, and her talent was not poor. Fairy of Rainbow Skirt also intended to nurture her, so naturally he did not mind pushing the boat along with the current.

As for Li Tianmo and Shen Zhuang, not only did they receive his care, but Yun Yao also played a role. It counted as the intentions of both of them.

It was just that—

Lin Chang’an secretly shook his head.

He was not particularly optimistic about the two.

Li Tianmo’s fierce early advancement had caused insufficient momentum later, while Shen Zhuang, though possessing a solid foundation, likewise lagged somewhat in cultivation progress.

Still, everyone possessed their own destiny.

After this Secret Realm expedition, he and Yun Yao would likely flee first.

As for the descendants of these old acquaintances, he would simply provide them some care.

How far they could ultimately walk depended upon their own fortunes.

“Ling’er, cultivate diligently after returning. Your cultivation has already touched the bottleneck as well.”

However, all these matters were insignificant.

Soon afterward, Lin Chang’an’s gaze fell upon Sword Attendant as he revealed a smile.

This was the true priority.

“Yes, Master!”

After seeing her master’s gaze land upon her, Sword Attendant revealed a resolute expression.