Chapter 2053: Si You

Upon Qin Sang's return to the Turbid Waves Sea and Su Nü's acquisition of the bamboo token, the two immediately set off for Haitang Academy.

The Turbid Waves Sea lives up to its name, as its waters are noticeably murkier than elsewhere. The sight of clear water indicates one has left this region. Haitang Academy is located north of the Turbid Waves Sea, separated by an unknown expanse of ocean.

Being unknown means being ownerless and without any laws. This makes it one of the most chaotic and violent, yet also the easiest, places to get rich overnight within Liansha Continent. Such areas are prevalent throughout Liansha Continent.

The two traveled without pause. As they neared Haitang Academy, the cultivation world appeared significantly more stable. Although they occasionally spotted cultivators with malevolent auras, these individuals all shed their fierce demeanors, becoming cautious and reserved, unlike their usual unruly behavior seen elsewhere.

Haitang Academy places great emphasis on gentlemanly conduct, yet to outsiders, they are far from being benign. If someone commits evil in the vicinity and is unfortunately detected by the academy, Haitang Academy does not hesitate to send people to apprehend them, even beyond its walls, labeling it as "admonishment."

It is rumored that once incarcerated in Haitang Academy's prison, even the most formidable individuals will confess all the evil deeds they have committed throughout their lives, spilling everything like beans from a bamboo tube. They are then judged and punished accordingly, their fate sealed to remain imprisoned indefinitely, with no hope of release.

"Haitang Academy is just ahead," Su Nü announced after consulting a sea map.

Qin Sang looked out, seeing only vast, clear blue waves stretching to the horizon, with no islands in sight. He detected no cultivators nor any fluctuations from defensive formations.

Haitang Academy's jurisdiction is exceptionally vast. To completely seal off and isolate the entire sea area from external threats would require an enormous grand formation. While Haitang Academy might possess such capability, they have not implemented it.

Theoretically, Qin Sang and Su Nü could conceal their auras and covertly infiltrate Haitang Academy. However, the academy undoubtedly possesses detection methods. Moreover, as they needed to extensively search for traces of the alien race and might reside there for an extended period, such a method presented numerous inconveniences and was not a sustainable long-term plan.

Instead, they opted to use the Gentleman's Token to openly operate within Haitang Academy.

On the vast, empty sea, not a single figure was visible. Qin Sang and Su Nü maintained their original, unhurried flight speed, without deliberately concealing their auras.

Soon after, Qin Sang's expression shifted slightly. He retracted his escape light and looked eastward. Su Nü also sensed it: two cultivators were flying towards them from that direction, their intention clearly to find them.

"Haitang Academy truly possesses methods for remote detection," Qin Sang stated gravely.

Su Nü nodded slightly, contemplating, "If we use secret arts to conceal ourselves, they likely won't detect us. However, the closer we get to the academy's central hub, the stronger their detection methods will undoubtedly become. Since Brother Qin has obtained an Orchid Token, our operations will be much more convenient."

The two waited briefly. From the horizon, two streaks of light descended, revealing a tall and a short scholar in long robes, who landed before them.

One of the middle-aged scholars, a cultivator of the Deification stage, glanced at Su Nü, his heart filled with deference. He cupped his hands and spoke, "Greetings, esteemed Master. I am Xie Yuan, humbly serving as the Pavilion Chief of Shexi Pavilion here."

They had already learned that Haitang Academy divided its jurisdiction into various 'pavilions,' each overseen by a 'pavilion chief,' who was further assisted by several immortal officials and soldiers.

Su Nü stepped forward, bowing in return. Politely, she stated, "Greetings, Lord Xie. This humble one has an urgent matter requiring a visit to your esteemed academy. As we pass through your jurisdiction, I kindly request your convenience."

As she spoke, Su Nü produced the bamboo token.

She and Qin Sang had decided not to reveal the Orchid Token immediately due to its time limit. Instead, they would proceed using the bamboo token first, reserving the Orchid Token for when absolutely necessary, especially since holders of the bamboo token were permitted to bring several retainers.

Xie Yuan received the bamboo token with both hands, inspected it thoroughly, imprinted his own aura upon it, and then returned it to Su Nü. "This token is authentic," he affirmed, "Master, you may proceed."

While individuals of lower cultivation would undoubtedly face interrogation, a powerful figure like Su Nü, whose temperament was unpredictable and whose authority brooked no offense, would naturally be approached by more significant figures later on.

"Many thanks!" Su Nü bowed once more. With clouds manifesting beneath her feet, she took the discreetly standing Qin Sang and vanished into the sky. After watching them depart, Xie Yuan dispatched a talisman message before returning to his post.

With the bamboo token paving the way, their journey proceeded unimpeded. They eventually made a temporary stop at Sanguan Pavilion, one of the furthest pavilions accessible with a bamboo token.

They chose Fuyue Island as their temporary residence.

Haitang Academy's emphasis on gentlemanly conduct fostered a unique sight of cultivators and mortals coexisting. In teahouses along the streets, it was common to witness cultivators and mortals engaging in debates. Instances where cultivators were rendered speechless by a mortal's argument were not rare, yet they were forbidden from using their cultivation to suppress others, instead having to bow their heads and concede defeat.

One day, with Su Nü's whereabouts unknown, Qin Sang ordered a pot of tea at a teahouse. Hearing an argument from the upper floor, he went to investigate and found two Golden Core cultivators debating the ownership of a spiritual herb.

The spiritual herb had been discovered by both of them, though the cause of their dispute remained unclear. They argued heatedly, unable to resolve the conflict, resorting to a contest of skill. However, their subsequent action was truly astonishing: they decided to determine the victor through a "Flying Blossom Token" game!

Since cultivators possess photographic memories, merely reciting poetry or songs is no feat. The Flying Blossom Token game, however, demands on-the-spot poetic composition, with the opponent dictating the meter and theme. The verse must not be doggerel but must instead elicit applause from bystanders; failing this incurs a wine penalty, with three penalty cups signifying a loss.

The two continuously composed verses, eliciting constant cheers from the teahouse patrons. Qin Sang secretly marvelled, feeling he had truly witnessed something extraordinary today.

He observed the crowd, almost all of whom were captivated by the Flying Blossom Token game, displaying an immense, almost fanatical, passion for poetry. Surprisingly, no one seemed to care about the spiritual herb itself.

"Brother Qin, why not go up and try your hand?" Su Nü teased, returning from outside and seeing Qin Sang engrossed in the spectacle.

Qin Sang chuckled, not taking the bait. "The world is truly full of wonders," he said. "Had I not witnessed this with my own eyes, I wouldn't have been able to imagine such a scene."

As the two exited, the other patrons remained engrossed in the Flying Blossom Token game, oblivious to their departure.

Su Nü glanced back and remarked, "They must be scholars from the Literary Roll."

Haitang Academy maintains both a Literary and a Martial Roll; those listed on either are considered exceptional talents eligible for cultivation within the academy. These two rolls have distinct characteristics: Literary Roll cultivators dedicate themselves to studying Daoist principles and scriptures, rarely engaging in Daoist arts or divine abilities, and do not prioritize combat, instead favoring scholarly debates. However, as long as Haitang Academy stands, they have no need to engage in physical combat.

Outside the teahouse, Qin Sang telepathically asked, "Is the alien race making a big move?"

During this period, he and Su Nü had been gathering information independently and had already uncovered some clues.

Su Nü nodded, her expression grave. "The situation is somewhat dire," she said. "The alien race is moving faster than we anticipated, or perhaps something has happened to those two Heavenly Division aliens."

Qin Sang frowned. "Are you certain those two Heavenly Division aliens are hidden in Jiusi Pavilion?"

"Barring any unforeseen circumstances, they are indeed in Jiusi Pavilion! The alien race has employed various methods; several experts infiltrated Jiusi Pavilion early on. Recently, another large group of personnel was suddenly sent in. With so many individuals, they cannot remain hidden for long and are likely to make their move soon."

Su Nü's tone conveyed her unease. She had initially believed the alien race would proceed cautiously, allowing them ample time for preparations. However, with the situation suddenly becoming urgent, they too had to adapt their plans.

"Jiusi Pavilion, if I recall correctly, requires an Orchid Token to enter, does it not?" Qin Sang asked.

Su Nü sighed softly. "It's understandable that the alien race possesses such capabilities, given their long-standing operations in Liansha Continent. We underestimated them previously."

"There's no time to lose, let's go to Jiusi Pavilion immediately!" Qin Sang stated, bypassing his cave dwelling and heading straight out of the city. He added coolly, "Even if there are no exploitable loopholes, we can find a way to force their premature exposure and muddy the waters!"

As they exited the immortal city, they immediately activated their escape lights.

Su Nü transmitted a message: "Given that this is Haitang Academy's territory and the situation is unclear, there's no need to alert them just yet. I previously planted a hidden operative within that alien race faction, intending for them to act when the time was right. I'll have to awaken them prematurely now."

They traversed Sanguan Pavilion, reaching its boundary, where Qin Sang used the Orchid Token to clear their path. They encountered a few minor obstacles along the way, all of which were easily resolved, and soon arrived near Jiusi Pavilion.

To avoid alerting their targets, they did not use the Orchid Token to gain access. Instead, they suppressed their auras and cautiously infiltrated the area. After flying discreetly for some time and encountering no obstructions, they relaxed and swiftly made their way to the location Su Nü had discovered.

They carefully avoided spiritual islands and immortal cities along their route, eventually halting on a desolate island reef.

Su Nü concentrated her senses for a moment, then settled into a cross-legged position. "That piece is nearby," she said. "Please protect me, Brother Qin."

Qin Sang acknowledged. With a flick of his sleeve, sea mist billowed around them, enveloping and concealing the island reef.

Su Nü closed her eyes, performed hand seals, and began a secret art. Moments later, her eyes snapped open, her pupils turning profoundly deep, as if capable of drawing in the minds of others. Her gaze subtly shifted towards a specific direction.

Immediately thereafter, a subtle, indescribable fluctuation emanated from her eyes, quickly dissipating into nothingness.

Meanwhile.

In a distant sea region.

This area was dotted with numerous islands, densely populated. Almost every island hosted a city where countless mortals lived, and cultivators were also not uncommon.

Yet, unaware of the impending danger, a group of uninvited guests lay hidden beneath the ocean surface just outside this cluster of islands, forming a silent encirclement.

They lay silently concealed, unmoving, patiently awaiting their opportune moment.

A clump of vibrant seaweed floated in the water, yet remained stationary despite the ocean currents, resembling a large cushion. Three individuals sat cross-legged upon it, bathed in sunlight filtering down through the water.

Utilizing secret arts and treasures bestowed by their clan's revered elder for concealment, they remained undetectable even to cultivators flying directly above the ocean surface.

The three had somewhat peculiar appearances, possessing a pair of gray, pointed ears shaped like those of a wolf-dog.

At that moment, the central figure stirred, awakening from his meditative state. He glanced at his companions and stated gravely, "Brothers, please continue to watch this area. I've just recalled something and will return shortly."

His two companions, startled awake, looked surprised. "The revered elder is setting up the formation and ordered us to guard this area. What else does Brother Ji need to do? What if the revered elder discovers it and metes out punishment..."

"The revered elder's plan won't be executed so quickly. It still requires some time for preparation before activation, so there shouldn't be any issues."

The individual glanced outwards and stated gravely, "Given that several revered elders have united and are proceeding with such caution this time, our opponent must be incredibly powerful. Should they choose our location for their escape, we would be in grave danger. We must prepare for all contingencies and gather as many life-preserving methods as possible. I was previously refining a protective treasure that is almost complete. This artifact can be jointly wielded by all three of us for greater power. However, its refinement creates considerable disturbance, which might alert the enemy. If I distance myself, I might be able to finish it before the operation commences. Should you encounter any issues, simply send me a message."

The two exchanged glances. "Very well," they assented. "Brother Ji, go quickly and return swiftly!"

The individual nodded, detached from the seaweed, quietly surfaced, and then departed rapidly in a specific direction.

The unusual hue in Su Nü's pupils gradually receded. She exhaled softly, murmured, "It's here," and then briefly explained the circumstances.

After discovering the alien race's faction, Su Nü had sought to plant a mole within their ranks. She ultimately chose an individual named Ji Zhou, implanting a "cognition seed" to gain control over him.

This individual, a member of the Dog-Seal Clan, held a high position, serving a powerful alien expert of the Second Empty Realm and thus having access to sensitive information. Even with Su Nü's capabilities, covertly controlling such an expert was not easy, as she also had to guard against detection by other alien experts.

The "cognition seed" method operated with complete stealth. Once the seed developed a "mind spring" within the host's body, the individual would remain convinced of their own identity, yet would execute Su Nü's commands without question.

Su Nü had periodically managed to contact this individual, implanting a cognition seed each time. Although the mind spring had not yet fully formed, forcefully activating it now would cause the seed to lose all its power afterward. While regrettable, it was a necessary step for gathering information.

Unaware of being controlled, the individual landed on the island reef, his eyes vacant, as if he had fallen into a dazed stupor.

Shortly after, Su Nü dispelled her spell and looked at Qin Sang, a peculiar expression on her face.

"This individual possesses a lot of information. It's been confirmed that those two Heavenly Division aliens belong to the Siyou Clan."

Qin Sang observed Su Nü's expression. "Is there something peculiar about the Siyou Clan?"

"While the world operates on yin and yang, the Siyou Clan are hermaphroditic!"

This phenomenon exists among certain unique insect-beasts and plant spirits, but it is quite rare among sentient beings whose intelligence matches or surpasses that of humans. Su Nü couldn't help but marvel, realizing why they hadn't been able to determine the aliens' gender earlier.

"Precisely because yin and yang are unified within them, the Siyou Clan possesses a unique divine ability. Each Siyou clansman has an empty aperture in their glabella where yin and yang circulate, serving as a birthplace for spiritual energy. This allows them to birth and command spirit beasts; thus, every Siyou clansman possesses powerful companion beasts, capable of producing up to four.

"Unlike human beast-taming cultivators, these companion beasts are born from the spiritual energy of the glabella aperture, essentially forming one entity with their Siyou clansman. They are adept at transformation arts and can even interchange positions with their main body within a certain range, thereby resolving dangers. Unless both the main body and all companion beasts are simultaneously destroyed, it is extremely difficult to kill them.

"However, this method does have limitations. For instance, each use causes the companion beast to temporarily dissipate, requiring a period of time for it to be re-nurtured.

"Those two Siyou clansmen now have only one companion beast left, hidden on an island ahead. The alien race's plan is to trap that companion beast, waiting for the main body to use its divine ability to interchange, and then capture them in a single decisive strike!"