Chapter 1873: What I Wish For

The Human World

Qin Sang put down the jade slip and hesitated, "On the battlefield, where Grand Immortals and Demon Kings clash, I fear this junior will have no place to contribute..."

True Master Zuo smiled. "If Grand Immortals and Demon Kings could completely control the battlefield, they would simply fight head-to-head. Why such a grand display? Moreover, there are overt and covert confrontations outside the battlefield where it's not convenient to deploy Grand Immortals. Aside from those Demon Kings who have crippled their own cultivation, there are few among the Demon Marquises who could match a fellow Daoist. You also don't need to worry about encountering Demon Kings; they will surely go into seclusion to fully recover their cultivation, otherwise, they would be losing big for small gains!"

Evidently, True Master Zuo and others were in a similar state, which is why they valued Qin Sang so highly.

In True Master Zuo's view, Qin Sang was powerful not only because of his Spirit Wood physique but also due to his escape techniques, which were on par with those of the Spirit You King. As long as he didn't encounter a Demon King, he could come and go as he pleased.

Such a person would be extremely useful in wartime, and there were very few like him in the entire Daoist Court's two academies.

Pausing, True Master Zuo looked at the pensive Qin Sang and added, "Are you worried that, not being a direct disciple of our Daoist sect, you might be ostracized in the Daoist Court? Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures. This is a turbulent period. Anyone who dares to be jealous of talent will be defying the world and opposing the Daoist Court, and opposing me, Zuo!"

True Master Zuo's eyes widened slightly, and he slammed the table.

In fact, Qin Sang was not worried about this; True Master Zuo's personal recommendation already showed his stance.

With a Grand Immortal behind him, especially one who was a meritorious official of the Daoist Court who had crippled his own cultivation, even if someone harbored ill intentions, they would have to weigh their options carefully.

Fishing in troubled waters on the battlefield and seizing benefits was also part of Qin Sang's plan.

However, not now.

"Senior's great kindness truly overwhelms this junior."

Qin Sang stood up, bowed first, and continued, "To be frank, my battle with the Spirit You King was fraught with danger, yet good fortune and misfortune were intertwined. Amidst life and death, my mind became exceptionally clear, leading to some insights. Afterward, receiving your guidance, Senior, inspired me greatly. Now, I am eager to go into seclusion and digest what I have gained."

This was not false.

Over the past year, Qin Sang had reflected on himself and felt that his path ahead was wide open. The fierce battle at the Shrine had greatly aided his cultivation, and he had a premonition that perhaps his only remaining deficiency was accumulation.

True Master Zuo understood, nodding slightly, "In that case, fellow Daoist, prioritize your cultivation. Only then can you better serve the Daoist Court in the future. Rome wasn't built in a day, and the flames of war will not ignite immediately."

After some thought, Qin Sang decided to probe True Master Zuo's intentions, "In Senior's opinion, how long can this stalemate last?"

"Hmph! If it weren't for my insufficient strength, I'd storm the Grand Sage's Mansion right now! Those demons may seem arrogant, but they are actually just bluffing. Gui Fang Nation has been secretly withdrawing its forces, intending to avoid battle."

True Master Zuo's face showed indignation, and he slammed the table as he stood up, "They stole our treasures and now want to act like cowards? There's no such free lunch in this world!"

Qin Sang was unclear about what Gui Fang Nation had stolen, but from True Master Zuo's tone, it seemed the Daoist Court had suffered a considerable loss.

"Since fellow Daoist has made up his mind, I won't insist. Please take this token for now. When you've made your decision in the future, bring this token to find me. I will always be cultivating at the Shrine," True Master Zuo handed over a golden token.

The token had the character 'Zuo' engraved on it.

Qin Sang thanked him, taking the token with both hands. Seeing that True Master Zuo intended to dismiss him, he bowed and took his leave.

Stepping out of the golden hall and returning to the platform, he saw the golden-armored guard waiting for him there.

The two rode the clouds together, returning the way they came.

Exiting the Baishi Shrine, Qin Sang turned back for a glance before merging into the bustling streets.

He pondered their recent conversation, confident there were no oversights.

This trip could be described as very fruitful. His relationship with the Daoist Court had deepened, and with True Master Zuo as his backing, his future actions would be much more convenient.

Perhaps it was True Master Zuo working behind the scenes, but Qin Sang had exchanged the merit of slaying the Spirit You King for crucial cultivation insights into the Void Refinement stage, and surprisingly, there was still some merit left over, though he didn't plan to use it now.

He walked through streets and alleys, entering a green mountain within the Immortal City.

The familiar sight of a courtyard entered his view; it was Master Gu's residence. The letter flashed through Qin Sang's mind, and he gently touched the restriction on the gate.

"Who is it?"

"Oh! Senior is back!"

Cheerful laughter came from behind the courtyard, and then two streaks of green light flashed to the gate, revealing two beautiful young girls in sea-green robes, smiling at Qin Sang, their faces full of joy.

"Are you Feng'er and Yan'er?"

Qin Sang looked at the two girls; their features were somewhat familiar. They were the two Daoist children he had met last time.

Last time he came, they were just six or seven-year-old Daoist children, delicate and exquisite. Now they looked no older than seventeen or eighteen.

Their actual age was, of course, much older than that. Having cultivated in Master Gu's mansion with little opportunity to venture out, they were still innocent and naive, untouched by worldly affairs.

"Mm!"

"Mm!"

The two girls nodded like pecking chicks and opened the restriction without needing an announcement. Yan'er whispered, "Master is currently refining artifacts."

Qin Sang smiled. After more than a year of acquaintance back then, they still remembered him. It was probably because his welcome gifts were still having an effect.

Surrounded by the two girls, Qin Sang walked to the guest hall, familiar with the way, with their chatter filling his ears.

Qin Sang's childhood memories were very pleasant. The two girls were initially a little uneasy, but seeing Qin Sang's attitude was as friendly as before, they completely lost the restraint they showed with other guests.

They had heard Master Gu say that Qin Sang was from Jushan Commandery, and since they had only traveled as far as other pacification altars in Baishi Commandery, they yearned for the outside world and were both curious and fearful of the demons from Gui Fang Nation.

The two girls were quick and efficient, with clear division of labor. As soon as Qin Sang sat down, fragrant tea was served. Then they sat on either side of Qin Sang, resting their elbows on the table, propping their chins in their hands, their bright eyes gazing at him.

Qin Sang rarely had such leisurely time. Leaning back in his chair, holding his teacup, surrounded by the aroma of tea and orchids, he didn't find their chatter bothersome. He smiled, answered all their questions, and sometimes, remembering, would even take out small gifts.

No matter how tricky Feng'er and Yan'er's questions were, they always received novel answers.

Exclamations occasionally echoed through the guest hall.

Qin Sang took a sip of the fragrant tea, narrowed his eyes contentedly, looked towards the door, and nodded with a smile.

Master Gu entered from outside, unnoticed by the two girls, who had just heard Qin Sang weave a story of battling a Demon King. They were both scared and excited, their pretty faces flushed, eagerly asking for various details.

'Clap!'

Master Gu deliberately made a sound.

The two girls turned, saw their Master, and instantly their faces drained of color. They hastily stood up, softly called out 'Master,' and lowered their heads, daring not to speak.

"You may go," Master Gu said flatly.

The two girls let out a long breath and scurried out, so flustered they forgot to pour tea for their Master.

Master Gu sat opposite Qin Sang, scrutinized him, and gently asked, "Has fellow Daoist been too tense for too long?"

Qin Sang was slightly startled, and recalling it, realized it was true.

Since arriving in this world, he had first been busy recovering his cultivation, and later obtained the "Poison God Codex" and the Flower Field Grotto-heaven.

Cultivation, body refinement, artifact refining, sword practice...

Nianyuan, Demon Nation, Star Island Immortal Lake, Baishi Commandery...

It was either cultivating or traveling, with not a moment of leisure.

While he had also cultivated diligently in the Storm Realm, he had friends, family, and travels, which provided more variety than his current life.

However, it was undeniable that his progress in this world was unparalleled compared to before, and something Qin Sang had never dared to imagine.

Qin Sang took a large sip of tea, savoring its bitter taste, and said, "That is my wish."

Master Gu nodded, not continuing the topic. Her tone shifted, and she said apologetically, "Did fellow Daoist receive that letter? The situation changed, and I couldn't reach you for a time, so I took the liberty of making a decision. I hope you don't mind."

Qin Sang put down his teacup, his expression turning serious, "Has a Grand Immortal already seen the War Drum?"

Master Gu shook her head, "Because war is about to break out, True Master Xun of the Northern Exorcism Academy summoned us to his mansion for an audience, and I briefly mentioned it. However, without your permission, I would not take out the War Drum on my own initiative."

In the letter, Master Gu had asked Qin Sang if he was willing to present the War Drum to the Daoist Court.

If the Daoist Court could replicate it, even if they could only refine a few War Drums of spirit treasure grade, it would still be a great weapon on the battlefield.

The moment she repaired the War Drum, Master Gu had recognized its value.

Master Gu continued, "True Master Xun doesn't know the full extent yet, but he has already promised great benefits, vowing that fellow Daoist will not be shortchanged."

Qin Sang remained silent in thought, and after a long time, said, "Master Gu should know that I wish to comprehend the Dao of Artifact Refining by restoring this drum."

Acquired spirit treasures were extremely rare; how could he easily give up this opportunity?

A year ago, Qin Sang might have considered it.

At that time, there was no illusionary storm, and finding the path to ascension might not have required relying on the Taiyi Star Chariot.

Times had changed, and Qin Sang had to seize every opportunity to improve himself, striving to repair this treasure.

As if she had long anticipated this, Master Gu said, "Wait until fellow Daoist has restored the War Drum, and then offer it to the Daoist Court. As long as you also present your insights from restoring this treasure, I believe the Daoist Court will not mind. On the contrary, they will fully assist you in quickly comprehending the restoration method..."

There was something unusual in Master Gu's tone.

Qin Sang heard it and his heart stirred, "Master means..."

Master Gu nodded, "Aren't you lacking in true lineage, fellow Daoist? The Daoist Court's treasured ancient texts are countless, including artifact refining scriptures and legacies from lost sects. You even have the chance to personally receive guidance from artifact refining grandmasters of the Daoist Court. Why not seize this opportunity?"

As she spoke, she pointed to the refining chamber, "As for the spiritual materials needed to repair the War Drum, the Daoist Court is immensely wealthy, so you need not worry about that either."

Qin Sang knew clearly that Master Gu's words were not spoken lightly; they must have been authorized by the Daoist Court.

With the secret of the War Drum exposed, Qin Sang didn't believe he could forcibly keep it. His thoughts were only about what he could exchange for it.

These conditions were too good, better than Qin Sang had expected. All the conditions were tailored for him!

Artifact refining legacy, grandmaster's guidance, spiritual materials for treasures...

Each precisely hit Qin Sang's weak spots, which was likely due to Master Gu's mediation.

Qin Sang was not worried that the Daoist Court would renege on its promise. In this regard, the Daoist Court had always had an impeccable reputation.

"In that case, please trouble Master Gu to contact True Master Xun. I agree!"

Qin Sang couldn't think of a reason to refuse and made a swift decision.

Master Gu was overjoyed and immediately discussed the details with Qin Sang in the guest hall, taking out a blank talisman paper to list the spiritual materials needed to restore the War Drum.

Towards the end of the list, Qin Sang used his True Essence as a pen and added a few more items.

These spiritual materials, Qin Sang intended to use for reforging the Bright Mountain Armor.

"Oh, you..."

Master Gu pointed at Qin Sang, laughing speechlessly.

"If Master Gu has anything urgently needed, just write it down together," Qin Sang said with a smile.

Master Gu shook her head, smiling, put away the talisman paper, and said no more. To the Daoist Court, these spiritual materials were merely a drop in the ocean.

"True Master Xun is busy with the war, and he's hard to find. When he returns, I will seek an audience with him. During this time, fellow Daoist should thoroughly organize your understanding of the Dao of Artifact Refining. A Grandmaster's guidance is worth a thousand pieces of gold; do not ask trivial questions and miss this excellent opportunity!"

Master Gu's expression turned solemn, and she reminded him in a deep voice.

Qin Sang solemnly affirmed. He then directly sought Master Gu's guidance, and Master Gu did not refuse, helping him with an initial structuring.

Half a year later.

Qin Sang left Baishi Commandery, flying north on his escape light.

He hadn't met True Master Xun in these past six months, but Qin Sang had gained a deeper understanding of his Dao of Artifact Refining. Under Master Gu's guidance, he also had a general direction for which scriptures and legacies to choose later.

After a long wait for True Master Xun, Qin Sang decided to first go and repair the Flower Field Grand Array.

Nearly two years had passed. Outside the Shrine, the usual bustle had returned. Green grass carpeted the battlefield, and the traces of the great war were gradually fading into the annals of time.

Qin Sang entered the Shrine and successfully reached the grotto-heaven.

He had hastily repaired the grand array before, and after so long, under the continuous impact of vibrations, several parts were not functioning smoothly.

Qin Sang extended his divine sense, sweeping across the entire flower field.

As expected, in this environment, the recovery speed of the flower spirits was very slow.

Most of the flower spirits were languishing, not producing a single drop of flower dew in two years.

'Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!'

Streaks of light flew out from the Qianjun Ring, shooting towards various parts of the grand array.

As Qin Sang worked, the barrier outside the flower field became increasingly solid and sturdy, until finally, its aura flowed harmoniously, restoring it to its original state!

The space within the spiritual array immediately became much more stable.

Unless there were further anomalies in the Shrine, this array would hold for a hundred years without any problem.

Qin Sang stayed briefly before leaving the Flower Field space and proceeding deeper into the Shrine.

Compared to two years ago, the illusionary storm had barely changed. At this rate, it would likely take at least several centuries to subside.

Qin Sang sighed inwardly, exited the Shrine, and this time, instead of heading west, he went east, visiting the Snake Demon on the way, and then returned directly to Sword Heart Island.

If there was any news from True Master Xun, Master Gu would send a message.

Qin Sang now had to start preparing. He would first study Master Gu's insights recorded over many years, and he kept the War Drum with him. Once he received the Daoist Court's true legacy of artifact refining, he would restore the War Drum as quickly as possible.

Of course, cultivation could not be neglected either.

Qin Sang asked Sword Slave to monitor letters from the direction of Baishi Commandery, then sealed his grotto-heaven and went into seclusion for cultivation.

Who knew, five years passed in a flash.

One day, as Qin Sang was silently circulating his profound arts, his expression subtly shifted. He felt the grotto-heaven's restriction being touched.

He still completed an entire cultivation cycle, put away the jade bottle containing poisonous fruit pulp beside him, stood up, and opened the door. True Master Zhijian had emerged from his seclusion and was standing outside.

Old friends reunited, drinking and chatting joyfully.

Qin Sang sipped the immortal brew, and without hesitation, voiced the question in his heart.

True Master Zhijian held his wine cup, thoughtfully, "Are you referring to Zuo Fengdao, True Master Zuo? Indeed, I have some past connections with him, but those are old matters. However, he is a venerable and highly respected True Master of the Dao. Since you two have a connection, if you encounter any difficulties in the future, you may ask him to uphold justice."