Chapter 834: Two Sect Meeting

On the 21st day of mid-spring, True Master Yuan Xiu of the Green Pine Sun Dao Lineage attempted to attain enlightenment at Shitang in the South Sea. Thunder roared and monstrous waves surged. He failed in his endeavor; the winds stirred, evil forces emerged, and he was subsequently bound and slain by the Netherworld authorities.

Three days later, the wind subsided and the rain fell, and the spiritual aura of the South Sea changed.

Li Jiangqian held the letter in his hand, slightly shaken, and read it again, still finding it hard to believe: "This is too sudden... There was no decree, no invitations for an observation ceremony were sent out, and he suddenly went to the South Sea to break through... I wonder how his cultivation compared to the many Purple Mansion cultivators before him."

He still held the letter, his mind settling: 'It's hard to say. Perhaps the Purple Mansion level cultivators had news, and we lesser cultivators simply weren't aware. It's said that True Master Yuan Xiu cultivated the True Wood path, and the South Sea had a period of abundant resources for a while.'

Flipping the small letter over, he saw written: "Fairy Qiuhu has broken through to the Purple Mansion realm, achieving the Cold Qi divine ability."

This single sentence, though brief, was enough. Ning Wan's cultivation method differed from Yuan Xiu's. True Master Yuan Xiu's True Wood path was rare and unlike the widely perceived Wood Virtue, so few knew of his divine ability. However, Ning Wan was renowned even during her Qi cultivation stage, and Cold Qi is a common Dao lineage in Jiangnan. Amidst heavy snowfall, even casual gossip from Qingchi spread news of Fairy Qiuhu's divine ability.

"Qingchi is about to change masters again."

The Si family had few members, and their control over Qingchi was already not strong. Now, with Yuan Xiu's death and Si Yuanli in seclusion, Tantai Jin and Si Tongyi would undoubtedly have to defer to Ning Wan.

Li Xuanxuan, who was beside him, understood immediately upon hearing this. Stroking his beard with a smile, he advised, "Send the congratulatory gifts quickly."

This was significant good news for the Li family. Li Jiangqian, in high spirits, called for someone and instructed, "I remember we have a portion of Pine Frost in the treasury. Although it's merely a Foundation Establishment spiritual item, it aligns well with the True Master. Also..." He pondered for a moment. Most of the Li family's current inventory was with Li Ximing, making it genuinely difficult to present something grand. Yet, congratulatory gifts could never be delayed; not only their value but also their promptness conveyed crucial sincerity. So he said, "Years ago, Father brought back a basket of Lian Pearls, which are very precious. We originally intended to refine them into a set of magical artifacts, but there were sixteen of them, a considerable number. Crafting a complete set of artifacts is already difficult, so they were never used. Perhaps... we could use them as a congratulatory gift."

Li Xuanxuan winced. He knew there was a reason why that basket of Lian Pearls hadn't been refined into artifacts sooner: they were sixteen Foundation Establishment spiritual items, all interconnected by their essence. The elder was frugal and considered them truly valuable. He hesitated, saying, "This gift is too heavy; it's already on par with what a Purple Mansion cultivator would personally give. It would be a pity to split these spiritual pearls to give them away. Perhaps we should think of other ways..."

Li Jiangqian nodded. He actually hoped the other party would owe his family more favors. He secretly thought of Shen Bai, Li Xuanfeng's relic, which was likely an embryo for a spiritual artifact—the only question was whether it could be taken.

But since Li Xuanxuan had spoken, he naturally deferred. He then heard Li Xuanxuan say, "Then make a copy of the 'Cold Pine Dew Snow Art' to send to the True Master. Also, explain to her that our family's True Master is cultivating abroad, unaware of matters within the sea, and thus cannot visit in person, but will certainly make amends later."

Li Jiangqian added, "Why not have Chengpanfengmu lead a group, accompanied by Lord Cui, to show our family's sincerity and importance?"

Li Xuanxuan nodded slightly and said, "Call that brash Zhou Ming and Cheng here as well!"

Li Cheng was one of the few Qi-cultivating elders from the paternal lineage, and the paternal uncle of the Li Zhoufang brothers. He had caused trouble for Li Zhouluo back then and was sent to manage affairs in the dense forest. However, when tensions rose with the Dusen, he was immediately recalled.

After all, among the Li family's Xi generation, there was only one Purple Mansion cultivator, Li Ximing. Below him, in the Chengming generation, Li Chenghuai was considering going to the South Sea. Li Xuanxuan clearly saw that this child harbored aspirations for immortality and couldn't be held back. That left only Li Cheng and Li Minggong. He deliberately summoned Li Cheng precisely to encourage Li Jiangqian to rely on him more.

These three were all on the continent today. A single inquiry brought them all forth quickly: Li Cheng had a serious expression and was neatly dressed. In stark contrast, Li Zhouming, in a red robe, followed with a casual demeanor. Lastly came Li Chengpan, with his head bowed.

When Li Jiangqian explained the situation, Li Cheng was immediately overjoyed and replied, "This is truly wonderful news! Leave everything at home to me!" Li Cheng had repeatedly made things difficult for Li Zhouluo in an attempt to save Li Chengpan back then. This man's heart was always with his clansmen, and he always felt that the continent was too harsh, which was why he had never been given significant responsibility.

Yet, he was also the one who valued the family's reputation the most. While he might complain internally, if anyone from outside spoke ill of the Li clan, Li Cheng would genuinely turn pale with rage and resort to physical action. His own abilities were not poor, so entrusting this matter to him was suitable.

'After all... there aren't many left in the family who can handle such occasions,' Li Xuanxuan sighed inwardly, though his tone was serious as he spoke, "Zhou Ming, you will go with Shuyu and Cheng. Listen more to your elders."

Li Zhouming, as the direct descendant of a Purple Mansion cultivator, was enough to show respect. The young master in red nodded repeatedly, saying with a mischievous smile, "Oh, venerable elder, what are you saying? Have I ever been disobedient? I always do exactly as you say!"

Li Zhouming had caused embarrassment for Li Cheng and others at that time. Li Xuanxuan, fearing lingering animosity between them, still hoped they would interact more and get along. Fortunately, the young man showed no awkwardness, his face full of smiles, as if nothing had happened before, calling out 'Uncle' and 'Venerable Elder' repeatedly.

Li Cheng naturally wouldn't disrespect him. Although True Master Li Ximing, who had elevated the Li family to an immortal clan and ascended to the Purple Mansion realm, rarely appeared, his prestige among the clan members by the lake was undeniable. Even if Li Ximing suddenly decided to build palaces or towers for amusement, Li Cheng would be the first to lay the foundations. He solemnly bowed and said, "Greetings, young master... Please, young master!"

After the three departed, Li Jiangqian couldn't help but nod and sigh, saying, "The venerable elder's painstaking efforts are truly admirable to us juniors."

Li Xuanxuan stroked his beard and shook his head, saying, "Our intentions merely differ. You focus on the interests of the lake, while I only hope to mend the rifts between the various lineages. If there's discord within, any gains the clan makes will be hollow."

Li Xuanxuan hesitated for a moment, just about to inquire about matters in the north, when he saw purple qi permeating the lake, with clouds drifting on either side. A female attendant in purple robes came to knock on the palace door and announced, "Reporting to the esteemed elders of the Moon-Gazing Immortal Clan, True Master Ting Lan of the Taixu Purple Qi Cave of Marvelous Gates has arrived."

Li Jiangqian paused slightly, understanding that True Master Ting Lan, a Purple Mansion cultivator, was visiting in her capacity as a member of the Purple Mist Gate this time. He immediately descended the side steps and bowed, saying, "Greetings, Immortal Emissary of the Taixu Purple Qi Dao Lineage. Our humble clan awaits the True Master."

Then, purple qi gathered before the hall. The female True Master, clad in autumn-yellow robes, stepped forth from the void. Two faint yellow markings at the corners of her eyes glowed subtly. Li Jiangqian respectfully invited her in. As she was a Purple Mansion True Master, Li Jiangqian led her directly to the main seat. The palace doors closed automatically. Ting Lan first nodded to Li Xuanxuan, engaging in polite conversation, inquiring about the elder's longevity and the clan's well-being...

Since Li Xuanxuan was Li Ximing's grandfather, he was given due respect. Only then did Ting Lan say, "I have already met Daoist Friend Ximing in the east. I've returned now for two matters."

She nodded her head and said, "First, the spiritual elixir that Daoist Friend Ximing promised me has been refined. Our Purple Mist Dao lineage is not one to break promises, and most of our affairs overseas have been concluded. Our forces here will then come to construct array formations for your esteemed clan."

Li Jiangqian did not know what precious elixir these two True Masters had refined, but it must have been an extremely important matter for the other party to repay it with array formations. He cupped his hands and said, "Thank you, True Master!"

Ting Lan seemed to be in a good mood. She smiled slightly and continued, "There is one more matter... regarding Jiangbei. True Master Qiushui of the Golden Feather Sect originally sought the patronage of Senior Yuan Xiu. However, the Senior declined, citing an imminent breakthrough, and subsequently pursued the Dao with his life, ascending away."

"We are all of the Green Pine Sun path. To prevent Jiangnan from becoming too turbulent, and also to respectfully send off the True Monarch to the north, we must closely observe the affairs of Jiangbei."

Li Jiangqian could only nod respectfully and bowed, saying, "My sincere gratitude, True Master!"

Ting Lan's meaning was clear: the Jiangnan region did not wish to be embroiled. A group of Sun Dao lineages had put Ting Lan forward to handle the Jiangbei matters, and her presence at the Li family implied that the Li clan was tacitly considered part of this arrangement.

'I wonder if this is good or bad...' Li Jiangqian had some understanding. These cultivators of the Sun Dao lineages were all highly esteemed, having not moved from Jiangnan for centuries, their status as firm as Mount Tai. They were also quite discriminatory towards the East Sea and rogue cultivators. The Li family, with its Mingyang name and having grown as a righteous path approved by the Yuan Mansion back then, received a bit more courtesy from these cultivators. But to say that the other party would truly accept his family? Li Jiangqian didn't believe it one bit.

'Then this matter is probably some goodwill from Ting Lan herself.' The various Dao lineages of Jiangnan hoped that the True Monarch would not affect the Sun Dao lineages, but there was a distinction in this boundary; it wasn't necessarily fixed by the great river. Ting Lan choosing Moon-Gazing Lake subtly implied her intention to protect her own.

He waited for a few breaths, but Ting Lan did not inquire about the Jiangbei matters, leaving him slightly puzzled and wondering if he should initiate the topic. Who would have thought that outside, the sound of snow would suddenly be heard? "Whoosh..." Then, from the void outside the hall, a woman in white robes stepped forth. She wore a white gown, with a slender white silk sash tied around her waist, making her appear delicately slender. Her features were gentle and soft, yet her gaze was clear and piercing. With a single step before the hall, the entire hall instantly grew three degrees colder.

Fairy Qiuhu, Ning Wan! Only then did Li Jiangqian understand: 'So they were waiting for this True Master! Qingchi would have no choice but to get involved...'

But he quickly suppressed all his thoughts, first bowing to the True Master outside the hall, then standing respectfully with his head bowed.

Ting Lan rose to welcome her, appearing very polite, though with a hint of surprise in her brows. She asked, "Who was so thoughtless as to anger my little sister like this..."

Ting Lan and Ning Wan were indeed not far apart in age, perhaps Ting Lan was only about twenty years older. Both were from Sun Dao lineages, so the address 'little sister' was perfectly appropriate. Ning Wan replied, "Senior, you are too kind; just call me Wan'er... There's nothing truly to be angry about. It's just that having cultivated the 'Listening to Purity' ability, seeing the people within the sect makes me rather uncomfortable..."

Ting Lan immediately understood. She shook her head and consoled her, "Indeed. Listening to Purity is, after all, a Fate Divine Ability that allows one to hear people's inner thoughts... it's bound to cause more trouble."

Ning Wan nodded kindly to Li Jiangqian. With a Purple Mansion cultivator present, it was clearly inappropriate to engage in conversation with him, so she merely sat a little to the side and quietly said, "When my own senior was alive, there were many strange emotional moments, which I couldn't understand back then. Now that I've also cultivated a Fate Divine Ability, I realize he was already very compassionate. Sometimes, just a fleeting thought can truly be disappointing."

"It's not that I wish to pry into people's hearts. When these mortals come before me, Listening to Purity does not activate on its own. But once they harbor malicious thoughts, the divine ability immediately hears them and warns me... This is essentially the divine ability protecting its master, just like when another's spell approaches, it automatically activates to shield oneself..."

"But these words, truly... I almost felt the urge to kill when I left the Qingchi Sect."

Her complexion was not good; her usually gentle face was filled with coldness, clearly having heard many things within the sect. Li Jiangqian stood, eyes fixed on his nose and nose on his heart, utterly terrified. Ting Lan said with a touch of complexity, "Qingchi was already sorted out by Senior Yuan Xiu, so it's considered good. If it were in the East Sea, where the atmosphere is corrupt, it would be even more unbearable. That senior... also had Listening to Purity."

Ning Wan did not wish to discuss her divine ability further. She did not reply to Ting Lan, but instead said, "Senior Yuan Xiu... Did True Master attend the ceremony?"

"Of course I went. I came from the east and barely made it in time." Ting Lan sighed deeply and replied, "True Master Zimu of my Purple Mist Dao lineage also went to observe the ceremony. I happened to see him there. He watched for a long time, then merely shook his head and uttered a single sentence."

How could Ning Wan let go of such a splendid opportunity to hear profound insights? Her eyes subtly brightened, and she immediately asked, "What did the Grand True Master mean?"

Ting Lan nodded and replied, "An old hawk's body sinks, what branch can it rely on? A fragile mountain is easily shaken, but True Wood is hard to move."

Ning Wan mulled over the sixteen characters, only grasping the literal meaning of 'True Wood is hard to move.' She glanced at Ting Lan and replied, "The Grand True Master's Dao cultivation has reached the celestial realm, truly worthy of being a heavenly cultivator of Purple Qi. In the way of profound discourse, we are incomparable to him."

She paused slightly, then softly said, "I saw True Master Chi."

At this point, there was only one True Master Chi Ning Wan could be referring to: the missing Grand True Master Chi Buzi. Ting Lan pondered for a moment and replied, "What a remarkably detached seeker of the Dao. A pity."

Ning Wan had her suspicions and did not press her about why it was a pity. Ting Lan nodded with a smile, seeming to hold a faint purple light in her hand, and replied, "Our meeting at the Li clan today is also for a shared purpose: regarding the Jiangbei matters..."

She finally looked at Li Jiangqian, who stood to the side, and gently asked, "What news does the Li clan have?"

Li Jiangqian's thoughts dared not stray. His mind focused solely on the Jiangbei situation, and he respectfully reported, "Reporting to the two True Masters, Jiangbei is currently in turmoil in various regions. Most sects have retracted their forces and sealed their gates. Among them, Xuanmiao Temple is the most prominent. Xuanmiao Temple already had few counties under its control, and now it has sealed its formations and recalled disciples from various areas, seemingly intending to close its doors entirely."

"Sects in the north are moving northward, while sects in the south are retreating. The entire Jiangbei region has seen six tenths of its hinterland become vacant... Furthermore, in many areas, demonic cultivators and demon cultivators have already emerged, causing chaos!"