Chapter 717: Secret Pan Story

Please remember the new domain name as the original one has been compromised.

The waters of Baijiang Stream were exceptionally clear, with the streambed covered in dense bluestones. The palace, though, was not small. Shrimps and fish swam about, transforming into men and women. Some played immortal music, others carried spiritual objects, moving through the palace, creating a lively scene.

Although Ying Hebei was insignificant compared to Ding Jiao, this Azure-Necked Flood Dragon was originally a local overlord. The palace's grandeur and luxury were no less impressive, adorned with bright pearls and featuring steps made of gold. It was filled with dazzling treasures, showcasing extreme opulence.

‘He is, after all, a demon of the first rank below the Purple Mansion realm, and having borrowed the dragon’s might, he is the master of the Three Rivers. Naturally, he wouldn’t be lacking.’

Li Cheng understood the situation. Ying Hebei appeared submissive, but without Li Zhouwei, Li Cheng might not even have been able to enter this palace for a visit. Ying Hebei did not put on airs, guiding the turtle all the way to the riverbed. Shui Zhao materialized before the palace, bowing and saying, "Please!"

Li Cheng stepped forward. Inside the palace, a tall man was waiting. He wore a brocade jacket lined with slate-blue engraved silk, and an outer cloak of white velvet embroidered with a cerulean sea. Scales grew on his neck, his eyes were sharp, and he had a distinguished appearance. Seeing Li Cheng, he smiled and said, "Ah, Daoist friend Cheng! Why is the Elder not with you?"

"My family head is not yet at leisure."

Li Cheng's reply made Ying Hebei immediately understand. Facing Li Cheng, he naturally didn't need to be overly deferential. He stepped back, revealing his azure and white-soled boots, and announced loudly, "Please."

Li Cheng took his seat, and Ying Hebei immediately cupped his hands. "First, congratulations, Daoist friend, on taking control of the Baijiang Stream territory. This place has abundant spiritual energy, is within my dominion, has well-connected water veins, and yields harvests every year. Should you need to utilize any remote water veins, please just give the order!"

"Your Majesty is too kind."

Li Cheng naturally had no worries about water veins. He said, "The Baijiang Stream territory has no high mountains, nor any notable demons on land. However, with the water veins so accessible, it's very convenient for aquatic creatures to come ashore and prey on humans..."

"I have noted that."

Li Cheng, mindful that Ying Hebei was a demon, spoke very clearly. The King of Beijin River immediately nodded, graciously assented, and bowed, saying: "I will restrain all aquatic creatures of the Three Rivers from preying on humans. As for the demon generals in the fringe waters, I will send people to warn them. If any demon comes ashore and preys on humans, please send someone to inform me, and I will certainly investigate thoroughly."

It must be said, having connections certainly makes things easier. The major issue that the Three Sects of Mifan were powerless to resolve, even having to send blood sacrifices to Mang Huazi annually, was settled by Li Cheng with a single word.

With such a thorny issue easily resolved, Li Cheng felt very pleased. Taking advantage of the conversation, he asked, "Regarding the lands of Baijiang and Baiye, does Your Majesty know of any good locations or secret information? The Three Sects of Mifan chose this place to establish their sects; it's probably not ordinary, is it?"

The establishment of the Three Sects of Mifan already hinted at something unusual. Li Cheng naturally took the opportunity to inquire. Upon hearing this, Ying Hebei spoke solemnly, "The land of Baijiang indeed holds mysteries. I will explain them properly to Daoist friend."

"First, let me inform you, my aunt is a favored concubine of the Xushui Demon King. My elder brother also works under the Xushui Demon King. Back then, relying on this connection and making myself known to Elder Ran Wu at the Azure Sea Clear Pond's hidden residence, I obtained this assignment over the Three Rivers."

He explained his background and continued: "When the Three Caves established their sects here, I became suspicious. So, I specifically made a trip to Xushui and questioned the Demon King. Only then did I learn that the root lies with the Xiaoshishan Daoist sect."

"The Xiaoshishan Daoist sect?"

Li Cheng found the name familiar and vaguely recalled that his family seemed to have captured someone from this sect. He asked in return. The King of Beijin River immediately said, "Precisely. Near Chenghui Marsh, there is a mountain called Xiaoshishan. On this mountain, there was originally a declining Daoist lineage called Mifan Monastery. During the prosperity of the Xu Kingdom, Mifan Monastery was also an immortal monastery presided over by a Purple Mansion cultivator. It was the one that stood out among the various monasteries under the jurisdiction of Wanling Sect after its decline."

Only at this moment did Li Cheng understand the origin of the Three Sects of Mifan on Xiaoshishan. Seeing Ying Hebei's solemn expression, he continued: "This immortal monastery was said to have connections and backing. Later, after the Purple Mansion cultivator perished and their descendants proved incapable, no sect or lineage ever dared to plot against it. Instead, they were merely instigated by various families to splinter into fragments, becoming enemies of one another, and living their lives guarding that one mountain."

"This continued until the North-South conflict, when monks attacked from the north, finally disturbing this place. How could the various Mifan Caves resist? They were immediately shattered, scattering to flee for their lives across the land."

He stroked his beard and said: "I overheard the Elder chatting, saying that Mifan Monastery possessed a treasure, an ancient spiritual artifact... It lies hidden within the Great Void. If a descendant of Mifan Monastery can gain its recognition, it will descend from the Great Void... Several Purple Mansion cultivators covet it."

As he said this, Li Cheng immediately understood the fundamental origin of the Three Sects of Mifan! In reality, they were merely planted by several surrounding Purple Mansion powers, who selected and cultivated talented individuals within the sects, all for the sake of that spiritual artifact.

The schemes of Purple Mansion cultivators were often unpredictable. Although the Demon King's words could not be entirely trusted, the origins of Mifan Monastery were very likely accurate. Li Cheng committed it firmly to memory and replied, "I see..."

But upon reflection, Li Cheng realized he had thoroughly offended Ye Hui. He pondered to himself: "I don't know which True Immortals are involved... But there's also Fanyun Cave on the other side, which means the one from Chengyun Gate has intervened. This matter is very important; I should report it to the True Immortal!"

Li Cheng no longer had the mind to chat idly with him at this point. He asked about the details of the situation directly, getting straight to the point: "Although the people from Miyun Cave have retreated, who knows when they will return? Your Majesty guards the Three Rivers territory; if you acquire any information, please inform us... My family will surely offer a generous reward!"

Anyone would know that Miyun Cave was actually the Xian Dao of Baiye Capital. However, since Xian Dao was a legitimate Purple Mansion power, bringing it up would make things difficult for the other party. So he used "Miyun Cave" as a substitute. Ying Hebei smiled and said, "Of course! They are just a few minor Foundation Establishment remnants. I've sent people to watch them. If there's any news, I'll immediately dispatch Shui Zhao to inform you."

Ying Hebei had his own capabilities; how could he not understand Li Cheng's meaning?

It must be known that Ying Hebei was also under strict orders from above not to interfere in human affairs, especially those involving Purple Mansion cultivators. Ying Hebei could not openly side with either party. But rules were rules, and some matters could simply be understood tacitly between them. Li Cheng mentioning "Miyun Cave" made it even more convenient. The water dragon eagerly agreed, escorting him out and saying, "In the coming months, I will have Shui Zhao visit several times to maintain contact. That way, it will be easier to inform Daoist friend if something happens and communication is delayed, which would be troublesome."

Li Cheng knew he would most likely send gifts. He could then decide whether to accept them based on their value. He then rode the lightning out of Baijiang Stream and quickly wrote a letter to inform his family.

Ying Hebei returned to his palace, dropped the smile from his face, and frowned, saying: "Shui Zhao... during the North-South conflict, didn't a Thunder Pearl fall into the riverbed? Unfortunately, that item is too valuable; he probably wouldn't accept it... Go check the treasury for any lightning-attributed treasures."

Shui Zhao acknowledged and departed. Ying Hebei's mind gradually settled. "This person is easy to get along with. The phase of thunder rising from the Eastern Sea's waters may be concluding soon; I should seize the opportunity to acquire some lightning-attributed gifts to prepare..."

Zhijing Mountain.

Li Zhouwei returned to his clan by celestial light. He dismissed everyone in his entourage, leaving Mang Huazi under the White Ape's care. Without a moment's pause, he seized Wen Hu and rushed without delay to see Li Ximing.

Now at the foot of the mountain, after being informed that Li Ximing was on the mountain, he immediately breathed a sigh of relief. He brought the person up the mountain, threw Wen Hu onto the Bright Square Stone, and respectfully announced: "This fiend offended the True Immortal and deceived him with words. We have now breached Hongfu Mountain and captured him!"

Li Ximing had been waiting for him on the mountain and, hearing this, got up cheerfully. Although this matter had been planned long ago, and he had already intercepted the Purple Mansion cultivators in the Great Void, the extent of their gains still depended on Li Zhouwei's power.

He smiled and said, "Excellent, excellent. Take him away for now. You and I need to have a proper talk, and we'll interrogate him later."

Li Ximing had little desire to control the Li family. Therefore, he was extremely satisfied with Li Zhouwei. Although Purple Mansion abilities were formidable, the utility of top-tier Foundation Establishment cultivators was by no means small. Otherwise, why would Ning Tiaoxiao have fully promoted Li Xuanfeng back then? If the Li family didn't have a Li Zhouwei now, how could they advance into Midong? With just Li Cheng and Li Minggong's strength, it would be good enough if they could hold Fushan on the opposite bank!

He helped his White Qilin to its feet and explained everything about Chang Xi. Li Zhouwei pondered carefully. Li Ximing said, "I believe Ye Hui surely has other motives; otherwise, he wouldn't have been the first to openly confront my family. That's one point. The second is... while Chang Xi is still alive and can be looked after, I intend to visit the Cui family to inquire about their Daoist lineage."

Li Zhouwei replied, "Matters concerning Purple Mansion cultivators are not difficult to decipher. Especially since Chengyun and Duxian, the two powers behind the Three Sects of Mifan, both lack Lifeless Divine Abilities. As long as one is well-informed, one can somewhat guess... Chang Xi doesn't necessarily not know; it's more likely related to interests. If my family doesn't ask, he won't speak. At worst, we can befriend Su Mian."

What he said was very similar to Li Ximing's thoughts. Li Ximing replied, "Chang Xi is a clan cultivator who attained the Dao in the Eastern Sea; he was never a good person to begin with. Even on his deathbed, he remains wary. In fact, if I were in his shoes, I might not fully trust my family either. Moreover, from his perspective, if Xuanyue declines, my family stands to gain the most."

Li Zhouwei responded, "As for the Cui family... they are backed by the Dongfang You lineage, and are also supporters of Ding Jiao. If we try to gather some information, they should not refuse the True Immortal. This trip will surely yield great rewards."

"Good!"

This was precisely what Li Ximing wanted to ask. Hearing that it was related to Ding Jiao, he felt completely assured. After discussing some news about the Baijiang territory, upon hearing the name "Baijiang Dispatch Office," he couldn't help but laugh: "Indeed, it's overbearing; it immediately carries the scent of Mingyang's tyranny."

Li Zhouwei smiled frankly. Li Ximing only joked with him for a moment before his expression turned somewhat worried. He asked: "Do you still have connections among the Dragon kin? Do not forget to inquire about the elder's matter..."

Li Zhouwei knew he was referring to Li Qinghong's matter and secretly sighed to himself. However, this matter was sensitive and not easily asked about. He silently nodded in agreement.

Li Ximing noticed something. A colorful light of Mingyang's divine ability emerged from his sleeve, opening a path through the Great Void. He left a message: "I have always kept the Mysterious Pattern Vase in the Purple Flame Earth Fiend Spring on Zhijing Mountain for cultivation. If you need it, you may take it yourself."

The Mysterious Pattern Vase could absorb fire veins, drawing the power of Departing Fire and Mingyang to cultivate celestial light within it, increasing its might. Li Ximing had kept it on the mountain ever since his breakthrough.

He offered the reminder, then rode celestial light, traversing the Great Void for a while, secretly delighted. He began to look forward to his trip to the Cui family. Just a moment later, the Xuanyue Gate's Purple Mansion Grand Array emerged in the Great Void. Black and yellow currents sank to the bottom, while dark blue light floated above. It actually appeared more formidable than the grand array of Xianyou Peak.

‘Every art has its specialization. Gen Earth excels in defense; naturally, a sect's formations would be more stable.’

As soon as he arrived before the formation, an entrance naturally appeared. Chang Xi's voice emerged, "Daoist friend Zhaojing, please enter."

He passed through the formation, and the space before him abruptly opened up. In the distance, he vaguely saw the shimmering white Salty Lake, and a few wisps of cloud drifted over. Li Ximing turned around; inside the cave dwelling, bluestones rolled across the floor.

On the central dharma seat sat a stone man with a nose and a face. His beard and eyebrows were like jade, standing stiffly on his cheeks. His eyes had a stony texture, dark green and black, staring blankly and looking quite intimidating.

Li Ximing paused, hearing a muffled sound from within the stone man's belly: "Zhaojing, please wait."

The stone man painfully got up, scooped up a handful of sand from the ground, pressed it onto his face, and molded out his face and neck. The rest of his body was merely draped in clothes. He sat by the table, forced a smile, but only his eyes remained dark green and black stone, appearing cold and emotionless.

"Such a pathetic display..."

Chang Xi chuckled. The two stones slowly grew flesh, transforming into his usual appearance. He looked amiable. Li Ximing exhaled and asked with concern, "How is your health, senior?"

"Less than three years."

Chang Xi shook his head, his condition indeed extremely poor. He said wearily: "Zhaojing, you must have come for something. Please speak."

Li Ximing always felt that Chang Xi sounded as if he might drop dead at any moment when he spoke. Not daring to linger, he quickly asked: "There will surely be a great war in a few years, and I wish to cultivate a spirit embryo... It's not just for these coming years; if it's refined earlier, it will add more strength."

"Oh!"

‘He's asking me for the method to refine a spirit embryo!’

At this point, what excuses could Chang Xi possibly make? To put it bluntly, if Chang Xi were to die overnight, as long as Li Ximing wished, what secret technique of Xuanyue wouldn't belong to the Li family? What spiritual artifact would the Li family be unable to claim?

Furthermore, Chang Xi had never truly trusted friendships. When the Kong family was a prominent clan years ago, even after they scattered, no one cared enough about their friendship to look after their descendants. Since the Li family was willing to act, Li Ximing was entitled to a share of Xuanyue's possessions.

The old man coughed and immediately suppressed his thoughts. He forced a smile onto his old face and replied: "It is my fault. I told Zhaojing earlier that I should have brought it out for your reference. Instead, you had to come all the way here to ask for it... I truly apologize."

He took out a jade slip from his sleeve and coughed, saying: "This item is called 'Contemplating and Cultivating Divine Abilities in Fire'. This old man acquired it from the Eastern Sea in his early years; it is quite pure. I myself use this refining art, so Zhaojing can rest assured."

"Thank you very much, senior!"

Li Ximing took it from his hand and swept his spiritual consciousness over it. The jade slip was of excellent quality, seemingly blessed by Earth Virtue divine abilities. It was heavy and sturdy, comparable to a Foundation Establishment artifact. This small slip contained millions of words, accompanied by numerous illustrative diagrams, appearing to be a very orthodox and complete Daoist lineage.

Please remember the new domain name.