Chapter 35: Tricks, Counter-Tricks, Counter-Counter-Tricks

At dawn, Li Changshou, who had been busy all night in the alchemy lab, returned to the vicinity of the thatched cottage.

Before he even got close, he smelled a faint aroma of wine. His spiritual sense swept through his junior sister's room, and he couldn't help but raise a hand to his forehead.

It's better to take a detour...

Although the scene inside the thatched cottage was quite something at the moment.

Scattered on the floor were various "Simulated Immortal Life" game tiles, as well as the deck of "poker" cards he had made for his junior sister years ago.

This deck was quite luxurious, made from the special paper Li Changshou used to create "paper effigies." The raw material came from the pulp of a rare tree, and the crafting method was very complex.

It was clear that the three of them had played all night and were finally knocked out by the fine wine Jiu Jiu had brought out.

His spiritual sense could see a large sword, a long dress, a short shirt, and several pairs of shoes and socks strewn on the floor.

Ling'e and Martial Aunt Jiu Jiu were sound asleep on the bed, one lying down and the other sprawled. Jiu Jiu was hugging Ling'e's thigh, while Ling'e was holding Youqin Xuanya's jade-like feet.

In the corner of the bed, Youqin Xuanya lay diagonally in a relatively graceful posture, except... she was clutching someone's pink undergarment.

Unbearable to see, simply unbearable.

Li Changshou activated the formation beside the thatched cottage, turned, and went under a willow tree by the lake. He took out two unfinished paper effigies and continued to cut them with his magic power.

The "Paper Effigy Transformation" technique was a profound divine ability, recorded among the Thirty-Six Heavenly Transformations of the Dao Sect. Li Changshou had obtained this ability through a fortuitous encounter.

However, fifty years had passed since he acquired the technique, and this divine ability had only just reached minor mastery.

Only after Li Changshou became an immortal would the "Paper Effigy Transformation" technique unleash its true power. At that point, the paper effigies he created could host a small portion of his primordial spirit, achieving a temporary external avatar.

"Paper Effigy Transformation" was also one of his primary cultivation techniques, allowing him to harm enemies without suffering harm himself, which pleased him most.

Other skills like formations, talismans, alchemy, and poison refining were merely casual pursuits, hobbies to increase his capital for self-preservation.

Half a day later, Li Changshou put away the two newly made paper effigies and glanced at the thatched cottage. The three inside still showed no signs of waking up.

His master, who had gone out for a banquet, still hadn't returned, likely staying out for a long time.

Although his master had only become a Turbid Immortal, his status within the sect had significantly improved.

Without becoming an immortal, one was merely mortal, with a maximum lifespan of three thousand years.

Those who were close to Qiyuan in earlier years, whether out of a belief that Qiyuan no longer held social value, a desire to avoid excessive grief when Qiyuan's lifespan ended, or simply to prevent Qiyuan from feeling pressured, had kept their distance from him for the past few centuries.

Now that Qiyuan had become a Turbid Immortal, he could also become a True Immortal if things went smoothly in the future.

Although the name was somewhat unflattering, he now possessed an extended lifespan. Qiyuan's friends from back then had gathered around him once more.

Indeed, within immortal sects, things were quite realistic.

"Master's future cultivation will also be a challenge..."

As he pondered this, Li Changshou suddenly turned his head to look beyond the mountain.

*Whoosh*—

A sound of something tearing through the air came from the horizon. Li Changshou immediately ducked to the other side of the willow tree, raised his left arm, and aimed his left hand at the rapidly approaching small jade sword, intercepting it steadily ten *zhang* away.

A middle-aged Daoist priest's voice came from the jade sword: "Li Changshou of Little Qiong Peak, report to the Hall of Hundred Affairs for a meeting immediately."

Li Changshou replied, "This disciple obeys the command."

The jade sword immediately turned and shot back towards Shattered Heaven Peak.

A short while later, two more jade swords pierced the air from the same direction, but this time they shot directly towards his junior sister's thatched cottage.

Seeing this, Li Changshou immediately understood something.

He shook his head, summoned a white cloud, and departed first, avoiding Youqin Xuanya and Jiu Jiu, who were likely also heading to the Hall of Hundred Affairs.

...

This summons was likely regarding the East Sea Demon Eradication Assembly.

To avoid arriving too early and being too conspicuous, Li Changshou waited for a while under a tree outside the hall.

As expected, he wasn't noticed.

Only when more than ten figures had gathered in the southwest corner of the Hall of Hundred Affairs did he step inside, continuing his "invisibility" in a corner.

Although Martial Uncle Jiu Wu was cunning and malicious, stingy, and liked to take advantage of others, he did possess a tiny shred of virtue, such as keeping his promises.

At this moment, Li Changshou still appeared as an "excellent" disciple at the second stage of the Void Return Realm in the eyes of others. Jiu Wu had not revealed Li Changshou's "true cultivation" of the sixth stage of the Void Return Realm.

When Li Changshou arrived, six of the top ten contemporary disciples of the sect were already present, along with six or seven True Immortals who were a thousand years old.

In grand gatherings like the Demon Eradication Assembly, where numerous immortals gathered, immortal sects inevitably competed. How could the "talent" and potential of their disciples be directly showcased? By comparing their cultivation progress with their age.

The younger the age and the higher the cultivation, the greater the natural talent and comprehension, and thus the more glory they could bring to their immortal sect.

Therefore, unless by chance she was in secluded cultivation, Jiu Jiu almost never missed such occasions.

Li Changshou waited for a while longer in the hall. True Immortals continued to arrive, and two or three more young disciples showed up.

By the time Jiu Jiu and Youqin Xuanya finally arrived, there were a total of eleven young disciples and sixteen True Immortal realm members present.

These were all the people summoned today.

Elder Ge, who was responsible for the sect's external affairs, arrived with two other elders and explained in detail the purpose of their summons.

Elder Ge said, "This time, the East Sea Dragon Palace is holding a Demon Eradication Assembly on the East Sea coast, inviting the major immortal sects of Dong Sheng Divine Continent to attend. Our Immortal Ascension Sect is among those invited.

"I'm sure you all witnessed the situation last time when that evil dragon attacked our mountain gate.

"Not only that, but this evil dragon deliberately gave us the wrong date for the assembly, trying to make our Immortal Ascension Sect look foolish.

"Fortunately, the various immortal sects in Eastern Continent kept in touch, and our sect already knew that the assembly would specifically take place seven days from now. Our Immortal Ascension Sect will depart in four days to attend the assembly in the East Sea with the other sects.

"The Sect Master has issued an order: Venerable Oblivion will lead the disciples from our sect to this assembly, accompanied by several other elders who have achieved the Celestial Immortal Dao Fruit.

"All of you True Immortals are also among the accompanying party."

Elder Ge paused, his gaze sweeping over the twenty-seven individuals, then continued:

"The Dragon Palace is holding this Demon Eradication Assembly for three main purposes.

"First, they wish to demarcate the boundaries between the East Sea and its coastline.

"Second, they want to reclaim the prestige they lost from the numerous immortal sects that went to the East Sea to exterminate demons.

"And third, they want their Dragon Clan descendants to show off their might.

"At this Demon Eradication Assembly, the Dragon Clan will offer some treasures as prizes, allowing the young disciples of various immortal sects to spar with each other, defending and challenging the arena.

"You ten individuals..."

Elder Ge had originally been looking at the ten young disciples standing at the back, but then his gaze fell upon Li Changshou in the corner, and he corrected himself:

"All eleven of you are either the most highly cultivated among the contemporary disciples, or the most... mmm, astute individuals.

"A few years ago, we just eradicated demons in the East Sea. This assembly will undoubtedly see us targeted by the Dragon Palace, and there are also a few immortal sects with whom we have some grievances. They might secretly try to trip you up and make you young disciples look bad.

"Remember, you must not bring shame upon our Immortal Ascension Sect, and even more so, you must not lose the demeanor of our Three Sects' Immortal Sect!

"If anyone provokes you privately, you don't need to respond. But during formal sparring, you must make them understand your true capabilities!

"Following prior discussions among the various immortal sects, the young generation attending from Eastern Continent are all under 150 years old, with few rare geniuses who have already entered the Dao Return Realm.

"If any of you can acquire those treasures, they will be considered your individual rewards.

"Is that clear?"

Most of the eleven disciples looked pleased, and they all responded in unison, "Disciples will remember the Elder's teachings."

Elder Ge nodded, then pondered for a moment before saying, "There's one more matter, personally instructed by Venerable Oblivion..."

Everyone quieted down and listened intently.

"Li Changshou of Little Qiong Peak, where are you?"

"This disciple is present," Li Changshou thought, *This is bad.* He had still underestimated Jiu Wu's cunning, but he remained calm and bowed in salute.

Elder Ge said gravely, "For this outing, all young disciples must heed your command. You will be... the leader of the young disciples."

For a moment, not only were the ten disciples somewhat bewildered, but the sixteen True Immortals also turned their heads to examine Li Changshou.

Why would a disciple at the second stage of the Void Return Realm be chosen as leader?

Feeling the gazes converge on him, Li Changshou's mouth couldn't help but twitch.

*He's doing it on purpose, Jiu Wu is definitely doing it on purpose!*

This short Daoist was forcing him to reveal his true strength!

Originally, Li Changshou had thought that going to the East Sea would be an easy trip; with several Celestial Immortals from the sect providing protection, there wouldn't be any major problems.

He could also take the opportunity to scout out suitable locations in the vast and sparsely populated East Sea to undergo tribulation during secluded cultivation.

Unexpectedly, Jiu Wu had set a trap here!

He had previously thought this trip wouldn't be a loss, but now it was definitely going to be a huge loss.

Jiu Jiu happily asked, "How did Master know about you?"

But several disciples nearby, as well as True Immortals from other peaks, could no longer resist speaking up to inquire.

"This disciple believes this matter is inappropriate," Li Changshou reacted swiftly, frowning, lowering his head, his breathing slightly agitated, and sweat appearing on his forehead.

He whispered, "Elder, please reconsider your decision."

"Oh?"

Elder Ge frowned, saying, "Are you dissatisfied with Venerable Oblivion's decree?"

"This disciple wouldn't dare, but there's something slightly suspicious about this matter," Li Changshou said without raising his head, hesitating for a moment before quietly asking, "May this disciple boldly ask: was Venerable Oblivion's decree given personally, or was it conveyed by Martial Uncle Jiu Wu?"

Elder Ge's brow furrowed. "It was conveyed by Jiu Wu."

Li Changshou felt a slight relief in his heart, his expression shifting to one of slight alarm mixed with a touch of "I knew it" helplessness.

Jiu Wu had definitely used Venerable Oblivion's name on purpose, and most likely hadn't informed Venerable Oblivion about such a minor matter concerning young disciples.

Such deception was inconsequential to Jiu Wu; Venerable Oblivion would not only refrain from investigating but would even help his beloved disciple cover up the lie if necessary. Jiu Wu had merely acted first and reported later.

However, this also left behind enough loopholes.

Li Changshou immediately decided to strike back.

Since his Martial Uncle had made the first move, he shouldn't blame him for retaliating!

Being the leader of the younger generation was akin to being their figurehead; this carried immense significance and would definitely push him into the limelight.

If this matter was confirmed, immortals from various peaks, as well as young disciples from all peaks, would likely keep a close eye on him from now on, and troubles would follow one after another!

This task—absolutely couldn't be accepted!

Li Changshou wore a look of shame and sighed:

"To be frank, Elder, in recent years, this disciple has befriended Martial Uncle Jiu Wu of Shattered Heaven Peak, and we often discuss the joys of brewing and tasting wine together.

"Previously, when Martial Uncle Jiu Wu was drinking at this disciple's place, he joked while drunk that even someone as mediocre and unknown as this disciple could be made to feel proud among fellow sect members.

"I never thought that after sobering up, Martial Uncle would feel obligated to make good on his words, and out of concern for his own reputation, made such an arrangement, which truly frightens this disciple."

Elder Ge's frown deepened, while the other sect members and disciples had expressions of realization.

So that's what happened...

Instantly, the gazes directed at Li Changshou lost their hostility. Many felt that Deacon Jiu Wu was too reckless, relying on his influence within the sect, and felt considerable sympathy for Li Changshou.

Even Jiu Jiu couldn't help but mutter, "How can Fifth Senior Brother be so frivolous! Really!"

Far away, tens of thousands of miles distant, Jiu Wu, while flying, couldn't help but sneeze several times in a row.

Inside the Hall of Hundred Affairs, Li Changshou sighed a few more times, saying:

"This disciple would not dare to make things difficult for you, Elder, nor would I blame Martial Uncle Jiu Wu for his good intentions.

"However, this disciple truly cannot bear such a heavy responsibility.

"It would be better if the Elder designated another disciple, one with suitable talent and virtue, as the leader. This disciple would also cheekily accompany them to the East Sea coast.

"If this matter was indeed personally instructed by Venerable Oblivion, then this disciple would not shirk responsibility, would certainly obey the command, and would not hesitate to shed blood for the sect.

"But if this matter was merely a jest from Martial Uncle Jiu Wu, then this disciple dares not falsely claim such prestige, and only asks to be allowed to fill a quota this one time.

"For the inside story of this matter, I ask the Elder to see it clearly!"

After speaking, Li Changshou bowed his head deeply and remained in that position for a long time.

The immortals were quite emotional, all feeling that this disciple had truly been duped by Jiu Wu, and it was quite difficult for him.

One female disciple even said softly, "Junior Brother Changshou, why don't you be the leader? We all know the inside story and won't have a single complaint."

Other disciples also nodded in agreement.

"What Changshou said has some merit," Elder Ge mused, his gaze filled with admiration for Li Changshou.

Elder Ge continued, "Jiu Wu has just gone to Central Divine Continent, and he cannot be contacted immediately. Such a small matter is not worth disturbing Senior Brother Oblivion over...

"Very well, let it be as you said. We will find another leader."

No sooner had Elder Ge finished speaking than Youqin Xuanya suddenly stepped forward, bowed with clasped hands, and declared firmly, "This disciple is willing to bear this heavy responsibility!"

Li Changshou felt a slight surprise in his heart. *Poisonous* today...

So understanding of his thoughts?

Secluded cultivation for a few years has indeed shown progress; the "toxicity" has dissipated a bit...

However, before Li Changshou could even sigh in relief, Youqin Xuanya added:

"I also ask the Elder to appoint two leaders. This disciple and Senior Brother Changshou can serve together, which would satisfy both needs!"

"Cough!"

Li Changshou almost choked on his breath.

*My goodness!*

Not only had the "toxicity" not decreased, it had deepened instead!

Just then, Youqin Xuanya turned to glance at Li Changshou, her gaze full of determination, her eyes conveying seriousness, and even a hint of shyness.

'Leave it to me, Senior Brother Changshou. Xuanya will certainly not make things difficult for you.'

At that moment, Li Changshou felt...

...he was about to crack open.