Chapter 627: Wangyue Li Family

Li Xijun had been waiting for several months on the peak. The grand formation on the lake was gradually perfected. In the hall, he read the "True Interpretation of the Jiazi Sword Canon," while Li Qinghong, eyes closed and concentrating, held the Six-Thunder Profound Punishment Order, deep in comprehension.

She had refined these six silver-white tokens a long time ago. Six silver rays converged into a single, hazy silver circle that settled in her hand, with lightning concealed within, giving it a mysterious appearance.

The Six-Thunder Profound Punishment Order was an excellent magical artifact, but its ancient origins meant its spells incorporated elements of formations and shamanistic magic. Li Qinghong's talent in these particular disciplines was not high, making her study of it rather arduous. Nevertheless, she had never shied away from challenges, so she merely held the order and concentrated deeply.

Meanwhile, Li Ximing sipped his tea, carefully reading an alchemy treatise. His alchemy cultivation, aside from a single inheritance from the Xiao family, was unremarkable and currently stagnant, so he was simply passing the time. Li Xijun had invited him early that morning. With the upcoming ascent to the island and a coinciding sacrificial ceremony, it was a major event, and his presence was essential.

After a period of contemplation, Li Qinghong slowly opened her eyes and spoke softly: "Jun'er, have their families been invited to witness the ceremony?"

Li Xijun replied: "The unification of Wangyue is a joyous event, but it shouldn't be publicized excessively. Among the Three Sects and Seven Gates, we've only invited Senior Kong Tingyun from Xuanyue. We also sent invitations to Xianyou and Yushan, but the Xiao family has sealed their mountain, so we're unsure if they will attend." He added quietly: "Inviting Senior Kong Tingyun... first, allows us to discuss matters concerning the North Shore, and second, to inquire about the situation in the East Sea."

The three in the hall were well aware of the "East Sea matters"—specifically, the troublesome members of the Changxiao sect, a source of vexation for the Li family. Since these were Daoists from an immortal sect, a rash attack or robbery was out of the question; negotiations would be necessary.

As he spoke, a guard reported from outside the hall that Li Chengliao had arrived to deliver his report.

"Let him enter."

Li Xijun set down the jade slip in his hand. The man entered from outside the hall. Li Chengliao had already shed his heavy cloak, revealing a pleated inner garment of a darker black-red, belted at the waist, and a white outer robe, giving him a sharp appearance.

Li Xijun was always a keen observer. Just days prior, he had noted Li Chenghuai's navy blue grand robe. Now, seeing Li Chengliao in a similar uniform style, he relaxed his grip on the jade slip and spoke gently: "It seems to be a new fashion within the family; these pleated garments and grand robes look quite elegant and unrestrained."

Li Chengliao, having just paid his respects to the three Foundation Establishment cultivators in the hall, was surprised by Li Xijun's question. He felt a blush creep up and bowed again as he replied: "Uncle, the family's population is increasing, and our various peak divisions are growing considerably. While robes are elegant, they lack formality for daily wear. When we receive noble families, particularly those from Jiangbei and Yuebei, they often wear pleated garments, which are far more appropriate than traditional robes..." He explained profusely, a hint of trepidation in his voice.

It wasn't Li Xijun's sternness that prompted Li Chengliao's elaborate explanation, but the Li family's famously strict rules. These rules were notably harsh on collateral branches, imposing severe restrictions, and even the pursuit of pleasure was considered a transgression. The closer one was to the main lineage, the more meticulous the adherence was expected, and over the years, many had faced penalties from the Clan Enforcement Hall. His father, Li Xicheng, had set an example, his dying words, "The family has no surplus wealth," being recorded in clan history. Li Chengliao was desperate to avoid Li Xijun misunderstanding, as it would tarnish his father's good name.

"It's fine." Li Xijun nodded and replied: "It's good to be more regulated. Draw up a set of clear guidelines, establish the dress code, and it will prevent many disputes." He subtly frowned, finding the clan rules excessively strict, noting that even Li Chengliao, a family head, seemed overly intimidated. He then added: "Ensure that the treatment of disciples from various branches does not exceed certain limits. Document this clearly at the Clan Enforcement Hall, drawing specific lines. While our family is strict, we cannot allow our own members to be falsely accused or harmed."

Li Ximing nodded in agreement from the side. Li Chengliao acknowledged, then produced a jade slip and reported: "The families on the West Shore have been fully reorganized. There are a total of fifty-seven families, fourteen Qi Condensation cultivators, thirty-one small peaks and valleys, thirty-two towns, and over 610,000 people." He presented the jade slip containing the detailed records and asked with a hint of doubt: "However, the West Shore is as barren as a wasteland. We recovered very few spiritual items; indeed, seven families possessed none at all. Yet, we acquired three hundred eighty-seven cultivation techniques! Although only seven of these are for Qi Condensation, the number of Fetal Breathing techniques far surpasses the combined total from the other three shores!"

Li Xijun, having already heard Li Xizhi explain these crucial details, was not surprised. He nodded and said: "This is a legacy from the Jin Yu Sect; I am already aware of it." Li Chengliao, relieved, continued: "Nine Gates Peak has ordinary spiritual energy. Three other peaks are moderately useful. The West Shore can be organized into four prefectures to govern its various families."

Li Xijun examined it closely. Aside from Nine Gates Peak, which was used for artifact refining, the only valuable assets on the West Shore were its 610,000 people and the three hundred cultivation techniques. Spiritual fields were scarce there, meaning there was little else of note. He calculated the time, motioned for Li Chengliao to wait, and then meticulously read the jade slip. Afterward, he stood up and reported to Li Qinghong: "Aunt, after a hundred years, all four shores of the lake are now under our family's control." He declared loudly: "Our Li family now boasts nine hundred seventeen Fetal Breathing cultivators, one hundred eighty-five Mixed Qi cultivators, thirty-one Qi Condensation cultivators, and six Foundation Establishment cultivators."

"The West Shore's four prefectures account for 610,000 people. The South Shore, encompassing Shanyue and Xitan, totals 1,230,000 people. The prefectures of Wutu, Lijing, and Huaqian have 810,000 people. The East Shore's dense forest, whose vitality has not yet fully recovered, still holds 590,000. The North Shore, with its towering mountains, has 320,000 people. A grand total of 3,560,000 people!"

Li Xijun offered a specific explanation, saying quietly: "The dense forest is a fertile plain, the most abundant land around the lake. Due to years of conflict, its population is sparse. If nurtured for a few decades, exceeding two million will not be an issue."

Li Qinghong finally showed a joyful expression and assented. Li Xijun handed over the jade slip and continued: "The system of prefectures and peaks has been reorganized. The Eastern Dense Forest now comprises five prefectures and one mountain. Western Nine Gates has four prefectures. The Southern Old Lands have five prefectures. The Northern Fei family governs two prefectures overseeing five peaks. Qingdu and Yuting are designated as independent systems. In total, there are sixteen prefectures, two peaks, and one mountain, all accounted for here."

He produced a map from his sleeve. At its center was the roughly oval-shaped Wangyue Lake, with a slight indentation to the south. Sixteen territories were clearly and neatly demarcated, their names written in elegant small seal script, giving the map a very orderly appearance.

Li Qinghong studied it for a while, feeling her heart settle. She then glanced at the people around her and softly inquired: "Has a name been chosen for the island in the lake?"

"Not yet."

Li Xijun shook his head. He wasn't particularly concerned with names, feeling that continuing to call it "Lake Island" would be harmless. However, Li Qinghong smiled and gently said: "This name, however, is quite significant." Li Qinghong's voice was gentle, yet combined with her feathered robe and silver spear, she exuded a unique authority. She continued softly: "Our family has been established on this lake for a century, with all four branches tirelessly striving and dedicating their utmost. However, the foundation of our dominion was laid by two individuals: first, Great-Uncle Xi Ping, and later, my grandfather. This island in the lake will eventually have mountains moved here, causing its land to rise high above the water. Therefore, why not name it 'Pingya Isle'?"

Li Xijun nodded gently, naturally offering no objection. Just then, Li Chenghuai stepped forward to report, respectfully addressing Li Chengliao before speaking: "The Clear Yuan Ping formation of the grand array on the lake has been erected. Your nephew has escorted the masters back, spending two hundred twelve spirit stones." A typical Qi Condensation grand array costs just over a hundred spirit stones, but the lake island was truly enormous, costing over two hundred. Fortunately, no tributes had been paid in recent years, leaving the Li family with a solid financial foundation and over two hundred spirit stones remaining even after this expenditure.

Li Xijun nodded, instructing him to stand aside. After waiting for a quarter of an hour, An Siwei approached from outside the hall, bowed within, and respectfully announced: "The large vessels are prepared. All branches have boarded from Lijing, Huaqian, Huazhong, and other locations, and are now en route to the island."

Only after An Siwei finished speaking did Li Qinghong rise from the main seat, slowly descend the steps, and softly instruct: "Go and invite all the elders and esteemed sirs. Wangyue has been unified; it is time for the ascent to the island."

***

Lijing Town.

The large dam by the lake was bustling with activity. Huge vessels were moored at the shore, casting vast shadows over the crowds beneath the sunlight. Everyone below looked up in anticipation. The elderly man at the front of the vessel extended his single arm, his aged face serene. He watched the crowd board the boat. The cultivators around him were busy assisting people, yet no one pressed him to hurry.

Only when all passengers had boarded did a white-robed cultivator, carrying a spear and possessing a distinguished appearance, descend from the sky, powered by wind. He landed before the vessel and first cupped his hands to the old man, saying: "Elder Qiuyang!"

Li Qiuyang waved his single arm, signaling An Siwei not to concern himself. His aged face, bathed in sunlight, broke into a smile as he spoke in a raspy voice: "Your father is also due to return from the great desert on this very day; it's a perfect opportunity for a family reunion."

An Zheyan's punishment had not been severe; he had merely been sent to the great desert. While the fine of spirit stones and spirit rice was somewhat burdensome for the An family, it was by no means crippling. An Siwei nodded respectfully, clearly showing a hint of joy.

After the two conversed for a while, several cultivators from the vessel approached to pay their respects. They had originally intended to report to An Siwei, but recognizing him, they became exceptionally courteous. "It's an Elder, after all!"

Li Qiuyang stroked his beard with his single arm. Though he typically spoke little, his status was far from low. Each of Li Qiuyang's many injuries told a story: scars from market conflicts, wounds inflicted by demonic cultivators, marks from slaying monsters—all were testaments to his dedicated service to the family. His lost arm, too, had been incinerated while attempting to intercept Xu Xiao. An Siwei understood this well and stood respectfully by his side.

The sails were hoisted, and the vessel set off towards the center of the lake. Li Qiuyang stood up to look. As three streaks of light successively cut across the sky, he chuckled quietly, gazing into the distance, and said: "Back then, when I patrolled the lake with Uncle Tongya, this area was enveloped in thunder and fire. The Yu and Fei families were at their peak, each suppressing their domain with Foundation Establishment cultivators. What a display of might that was! Yu Mujian even dared to provoke Uncle Tongya in front of everyone. The Yu family showed our family some politeness only out of respect for the Sword Immortal's reputation. They could never have imagined this day!"

The old man had witnessed much throughout his life, remembering every danger he had encountered. He was, surprisingly, the most excited among those ascending the island. When the large vessel finally docked, and he beheld the lush green grass and fertile plains, he turned and smiled, declaring: "What a magnificent island!"

An Siwei dispatched capable escorts who followed behind Li Qiuyang as they headed toward the island's center. In the sky, a woman in a Xiangyi robe flew past, riding a golden mountain, leaving a trail of brilliance. An Siwei heard the old man sigh: "Several Foundation Establishment cultivators... An family boy, take a look and tell me what you see."

His aged eyes were sharp; he could tell at a glance that those in the clouds were extraordinary individuals, but lacking knowledge of all the families, he couldn't identify them. An Siwei softly replied: "The family only invited the Xiao family and Xuanyue. As for the true identities of these Foundation Establishment cultivators, I do not know them either. Considering that female cultivator in the Xiangyi robe, she might be from the Xuanyue Sect."

Li Qiuyang let out an "Oh" of surprise. Seeing a high platform on the island, he descended towards it. An old man in grey-blue clothing, with a sword at his waist, rode the wind to greet them, looking taciturn. "Donghe!" Li Qiuyang called out. Chen Donghe nodded silently and led him inside, where they saw Li Xijun descending from mid-air, accompanied by two others on a snow-borne flight. Li Xijun spoke softly: "Two esteemed seniors."

Before he could finish speaking, a middle-aged woman stepped forward from behind him and said with a touch of sadness: "Father!"

Chen Donghe quickly looked up, completely stunned for three breaths, before whispering: "Qingxiao..."

The woman before him, a late-stage Qi Condensation cultivator, was indeed Li Qingxiao, Chen Donghe's daughter. In his memory, she was still a child, but now, upon meeting her again, she was already past fifty. Father and daughter both felt a sense of unreality upon their reunion. Li Qingxiao pursed her lips, and the young man behind her stepped forward, his eyes notably spirited. He was a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and he respectfully said: "Muyun greets his maternal grandfather!"

Chen Donghe didn't recognize him at all, only realizing that the Foundation Establishment cultivator before him was Li Qingxiao's son. He responded stiffly. Li Xijun smoothed the situation with a few words, then led them all toward the platform.

Li Qiuyang remained very excited. As an elder of the Li family, he was naturally positioned close to the high platform for the sacrifice. Watching two demonic beasts being dragged up by iron chains and waiting nearby, he mused: "This marks our first year on the island, and the clan tradition continues!"

Li Qinghong stood at the very top of the high platform, a slight joy in her eyes as she watched the two demonic beasts being dragged up. Below, Li Chengliao had just completed the preliminary rituals and picked up the jade knife.

As for the sacrifice itself, this year was not particularly grand. The Chengming generation had suffered significant losses, and the children of the Jiangque generation had not yet reached the appropriate age. Thus, similar to previous years, they merely used Qi Condensation demonic beasts for the ritual, making it quite standard. "Its symbolic significance far outweighs its practical impact."

This was her first time participating in a sacrifice as the person at the pinnacle of the Li family's power and cultivation. It proved less difficult than she had imagined, even overly simple, yet her heart was not entirely at ease. As she watched the series of rituals conclude, she gently exhaled: "Fortunately, the Daoist Pills will not condense immediately but will gather within the dharma mirror, only to be bestowed upon request. Otherwise, if Chengliao were unaware of the true circumstances, it would be quite difficult to manage." She ought to have informed Chengliao of the matter, but within the family, only those who had received the Immortal Mirror Talisman Seed were impervious to divine abilities. The Li family was gradually catching the attention of various Purple Mansion cultivators. If Li Chengliao knew the details, she feared it would lead to complications. "The Xiao family already had a Purple Mansion cultivator back then, yet Chi Buzi still dared to question Xiao Guitu using divine abilities. Our own family must be even more cautious!"

After completing all matters of the sacrifice, she ascended on a bolt of thunder, pausing in the air above the island in the lake. From her vantage point, she surveyed the landscape: the North Shore's snow-capped, towering mountains; the densely populated West Shore, bustling with cultivators; the East Shore's towering immortal mountains and vast, fertile plains; and the South Shore's dense forests, inhabited by the Shanyue people. All were clearly visible.

Beneath her, the green water rippled endlessly, revealing a boundless landscape. Mist rose from the vast lake, reeds swayed majestically, and white vapor cascaded, bringing the thousand-li lake and marsh into full view. Li Qinghong thought to herself: "This is my Li family's Wangyue Lake."

She watched intently for a while. Suddenly, a streak of golden light approached, and Kong Tingyun, clad in a Xiangyi robe, descended from mid-air. She first offered her condolences, then extended congratulations: "Now, your esteemed clan should surely be known as the Wangyue Li Clan!"