Chapter 867: Observing the Pavilion (1+1/2)

Li Ximing was deep in thought when the black-robed Taoist priest approached. On the jade tray was a small, palm-sized, circular, dark stone pillar with a concave center, glowing with a brilliant light. This was the main remuneration the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey received for taking Fei Qingya.

Kui Qi nodded and said, "I acquired this myself earlier in the South Sea. It was originally a spirit stone called 'To the White Sun Guardian,' but it was damaged during its acquisition, losing a corner, and its essence rapidly began to dissipate. When I brought it back, I saw it deteriorating day by day, so I commissioned someone to refine it, supplementing it with various spiritual materials to stabilize it. What resulted was a pool of spiritual essence, and this is one portion of it. It can be considered a spiritual resource, retaining many of the original stone's effects. Besides the conventional 'Bright Yang' divine abilities, it's a rare Bright Yang spiritual item capable of drawing talismans. Among Bright Yang spiritual items, only the 'Bright Square Heavenly Stone' likely surpasses it in efficacy."

He paused slightly, then specifically reminded him, "Zhaojing will need to refine a spirit embryo when he returns, and Bright Yang resources are naturally indispensable for that. You might as well use this item for it."

Li Ximing, of course, was not particular; he merely noted the substantial quantity, nodded repeatedly, and tucked it away. The three chatted about profound matters for a while, and after finishing a pot of drink, they prepared to depart.

Li Ximing summoned Cui Jueyin. The man bowed to the four True Persons and stood behind Li Ximing. Ling Mei, who held the highest status there, said in a deep voice, "Qiuhu has just escaped danger, and Zhaojing has just returned; both should be settling into their respective territories. My Sword Sect cannot be away for too long either... Should there be any news in the future, you all can simply gather at Huyi again."

Kui Qi smiled and bowed, seeing the three off. Watching them disappear into the vast white snow, he finally breathed a sigh of relief. He then turned to the black-robed Taoist priest and said in a low voice, "Dark energy pervades the Black Spider Cavern, though it's suppressed by the Indeterminate Mountain... but it can be observed in the other caverns. Is there any reaction?"

The Taoist priest whispered, "None so far... However, there was news today: the Linggu family inquired about Linggu Lanying and Linggu Rao."

Kui Qi sighed, saying with some regret, "I told Linggu Rao years ago that the next few decades would not be suitable for breakthroughs, but he insisted on going his own way. There's nothing that could have been done... Just send his remains back to the Linggu family. Now, it's up to Linggu Lanying. While one might look down on Bei Shi as an individual, one must not underestimate the Bei Shi faction. If she succeeds, we'll have another trump card..."

"Yes!" The black-robed Taoist priest, Hui Yu, lowered his gaze and said, "Linggu Lanying's bloodline is close, much like that lady from years ago, hence she is favored by the Grand True Person... After all, she was granted a spiritual item then. I also heard that the Grand True Person once held her hand, teaching her the wonders of various spiritual artifacts, and that the painting the Grand True Person created during the North-South conflict has been continuously nurtured and was also given to her."

"I understand." Kui Qi appeared somewhat melancholic, pacing a couple of steps in the snow, and sighed, "Master is a sentimental person; otherwise, he wouldn't have cared for the Linggu family for hundreds of years, elevating them to their current standing. So much so that Master, concerned about his declining lifespan, still wished to help the Linggu family produce a Purple Mansion cultivator... Back then, Linggu Rao would have certainly died upon entering the Grotto-Heaven, but Master intervened and saved him. Unfortunately, he proved inadequate, so now it's solely up to Linggu Lanying."

As the foremost figure of the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey, Lou Xing traveled thousands of miles to the Grotto-Heaven just to save a small Foundation Establishment cultivator of Shanyue descent, demonstrating his excessive favoritism. The two exchanged glances in silence, the rest of their thoughts unspoken: 'There are many Purple Mansion cultivators in the Lin family, but few opportunities to meet them. Yet, the Linggu family's cultivators have been promoted one after another, and now one is finally about to reach Purple Mansion. But will this Purple Mansion cultivator belong to Qingchi or the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey?'

The Solar Orthodox Lineage shared a common spirit, and the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey was thriving with numerous talents. Kui Qi, being upright, was not particularly concerned if this Purple Mansion cultivator ended up in Qingchi; perhaps it might even be a good thing. However, judging by Lou Xing's intentions, this Grand True Person who comprehended sword intent... might still allocate many spiritual artifacts to the Linggu family... This would be a significant blow to the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey! Kui Qi, with his conservative and stubborn nature, found it even harder to stand by and let this happen!

Kui Qi not only had to worry about Lou Xing's lifespan and secretly search for various life-extending items but also had to contend with the growing favoritism of this Grand True Person, who became increasingly willful and inclined to follow his heart as he aged. The fact that he couldn't voice these difficulties to anyone made him feel very uncomfortable. If Kui Qi were truly heartless, Linggu Lanying would certainly not be able to break through successfully once Lou Xing died. However, out of respect for his Master and his own pride, he kept all his thoughts to himself, only letting out a sigh: 'It's common for elders to show favoritism... But... Linggu Lanying... has no affection for Hǔyí. If spiritual artifacts are allocated to her, she'll only become more wary of us and will definitely remain in Qingchi... Even if Ning Wan were willing, how could the Linggu family or she herself abandon the substantial benefits of the Four Min regions and Qingchi, giving up their autonomy to humble themselves and serve us...?'

Li Ximing and Ning Wan journeyed north, with Cui Jueyin quietly following behind. As they crossed into Qingchi territory, Ning Wan, the foremost beauty of Qingchi, having cultivated divine abilities, appeared breathtakingly beautiful with every glance. She sighed, "The spiritual aura by the shore feels somewhat strange... I only hope nothing has happened to the Grand True Person."

Li Ximing had heard much about Grand True Person Lou Xing, and even Yuan Dao had expressed concern for him back then, so Li Ximing naturally offered reassurance: "If something had happened to the Grand True Person, and time was truly pressing, Zhe Lu wouldn't dare to provoke. It's precisely because the Grand True Person is fine and currently busy cultivating divine abilities, unable to risk injury, that Zhe Lu dares to come..."

There was certainly some truth to his words; a Grand True Person on the verge of demise was the most formidable. Li Ximing recalled Yuan Dao's tone at the time, which didn't convey much anxiety, making this undoubtedly the most credible piece of information. Ning Wan nodded and smiled, "Senior Kui Qi is enthusiastic and quite meticulous. Although Zhaojing's talisman path isn't profound, the spiritual essence from the 'To the White Sun Guardian' can be used to temper a spirit embryo. Whether you find a True Person skilled in artifact refining or refine it yourself, it will be useful." Her expression shifted slightly as she said, "After all, the sooner it's refined, the better."

As soon as Ning Wan spoke, Li Ximing immediately understood her meaning. He, Li Ximing, was currently aligned with the Solar Orthodox Lineage. Kui Qi's consistent enthusiasm, even going so far as to impart all information about Bright Yang spiritual artifacts, was clearly aimed at maximizing Li Ximing's strength in a short period. This spirit embryo was also part of that effort. While the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey might not possess Bright Yang Purple Mansion spiritual items, the remnants of the Eastern Fire Grotto-Heaven surely contained ample Bright Yang Purple Mansion resources. So why specifically choose the spiritual essence from the 'To the White Sun Guardian'? Was it for drawing talismans? If it were for drawing talismans, wouldn't the Grand Owl-Basilisk Abbey be proficient in that? They would surely value what they excelled at more, so why would they give it to Li Ximing instead?

It was precisely because the spiritual essence from the 'To the White Sun Guardian' was more suitable for enhancing a spirit embryo! The sooner Li Ximing's spirit embryo was refined, the stronger he would become, and this would yield results quickly. Conversely, providing spiritual items that aid cultivation would take at least ten to twenty years to show effect.

Li Ximing indicated his understanding. Although he wasn't proficient in artifact refining, with "Observation Platform Divine Ability: Refining in Fire" in hand, adding the spiritual essence from the 'To the White Sun Guardian' wouldn't require him to trouble Jin Yu or Heng Zhu, making it much easier. He smiled, "I heard the Ning family has a guest elder named Chu Minglian, who also cultivates Fiery Essence. I've constructed an altar to refine the spirit embryo, and when I'm not present, I'll need a master skilled in artifact refining to oversee it."

Ning Wan immediately understood and said softly, "I will send him."

Li Ximing thanked her. Since becoming a Purple Mansion cultivator, it was rare to encounter so many fortunate events, which kept him smiling. Crossing the wilderness, Ning Wan and he exchanged jade talismans for immediate alerts and rescue, then headed towards Xianhu.

Li Ximing, riding the celestial light, took Cui Jueyin back. Flying over the lake, he could feel the ongoing joy and admiration below. Cultivators were whispering amongst themselves, and smaller families from the vicinity sent representatives to flatter him, their eyes full of envy and wonder. Groups of three to five cultivators, their escape lights streaking across the lake in all directions. Li Ximing, traversing the void silently, landed beside the high-altitude formation platform, only then having the chance to examine the formation disc before him.

'Vast Valley Purple Ceremonial Spiritual Light.' He gently raised his hand, and strands of purple-yellow light, mostly the size of willow leaves, descended from the sky, swirling and converging in Li Ximing's hand. Behind him, Cui Jueyin felt a suffocating pressure, as if even a gentle touch from these willow-leaf-sized lights could turn him to dust.

'The power is decent, with a sense of entanglement, confinement, and endless supply. While it can't compare to the destructive power of Bright Yang light, it's still superior to most magical lights. Even Lianmin would be injured if caught off guard by this move. As for dealing with Purple Mansion cultivators... it can only be used for containment... not for inflicting damage. Unfortunately, it's ultimately a Grand Formation of the Purple Mansion level. Foundation Establishment cultivators can use the formation to defend against other Purple Mansion cultivators in my absence, but lacking the ability to traverse the void, they naturally cannot use this profound light to harm others... It's even questionable whether Foundation Establishment cultivators can properly control its wonders.'

The chasm between Purple Mansion and Foundation Establishment was like an insurmountable gulf. Li Ximing casually dispelled the light, then turned and said, "Have the Foundation Establishment cultivators on the lake come to Observation Platform to see me." With that, he transformed into a ray of celestial light and dispersed.

The Observation Platform stood beneath the Chenging Gate, composed of a main platform and twelve auxiliary towers. It formed the foundation for the "Observation Platform Divine Ability: Refining in Fire." Originally a very costly project, it had been completed years ago, heavily guarded, and reinforced with formations; no one had ever ascended it. Li Ximing traversed the void, appearing atop the main platform of the Observation Platform. It was dawn, and cold winds swept through. The black and red banners on the surrounding twelve auxiliary towers fluttered. At the center of the main platform was a celestial altar. He walked slowly up, able to gaze upon the pavilions on the distant lake. 'Observation Platform... The name isn't wrong.'

In just this brief moment, Li Jiangqian and others had already rushed over, bowing on the platform with joyous expressions, and said in unison, "Greetings, True Person!" Li Ximing surveyed the group, counting the number of people. His gaze immediately fell upon Ding Weizeng, who was kneeling excitedly at the front. He nodded, then saw Li Quewan, Xia Shouyu, and others, feeling a slight sense of emotion.

'Now I actually have so many Foundation Establishment cultivators under my command.'

However, regarding the spirit embryo, the sooner it was refined, the sooner it could be used. Li Ximing said little more and immediately began making arrangements. "Observation Platform Divine Ability: Refining in Fire" required twelve Foundation Establishment cultivators, corresponding to the twelve auxiliary towers. They were divided into alternating groups of six, taking turns in the refining process... Of course, with sufficient manpower, twenty-four auxiliary towers could also be built for faster refining.

He immediately called out names: "Li Wen of Jade True, An Siwei, White Ape of True Qi, Cui Jueyin of Bright Yang, Li Minggong of True Fire, Ding Weizeng of Heng Zhu, Sun Bai of Horned Wood, and Xia Shouyu of Fiery Essence." With a glance, he noted that excluding two talisman-seed direct descendants who didn't need to spend time here, there were already eight cultivators who didn't conflict with Bright Yang and might even benefit from it. Li Ximing pondered for a moment, then asked, "What about the two Foundation Establishment cultivators from back then, Wen Yi and Wen Shan?"

Wen Yi and Wen Shan were Eastern Sea demonic cultivators, captured by the Li family years ago. Li Ximing suppressed them with divine abilities and confined them to the west bank, where they daily refined artifacts with their magic power. Many years had passed since then. Li Jiangqian respectfully replied, "These two brothers were lucky to have kept their lives. They've been well-behaved and diligent over the years."

"Then transfer them here for now..." These two were of the Suoma Ridge lineage, not entirely suitable, but at least they made up the numbers, bringing the total to ten. For the remaining two, Qu Bushi needed to inquire about matters in the north, so Li Ximing considered and concluded it could only be Fei Qingyi of Cold Qi and Miaoshui of Harmonious Water. Although these two weren't ideal and wouldn't yield results as good as the others, at least the twelve required individuals needed to be gathered. The secret art specifically cautioned against using Bright Yang alongside a few Jueyin types, and Kan Water was also unsuitable, rendering Chen Yang unusable.

Having received the instructions, the Foundation Establishment cultivators each took their places on the platforms. Li Ximing reached into his sleeve and took out the Shi Chuan. In fact, the Li family possessed several other treasures. One was the Jianyang Ring, of unknown grade. However, this item had once resonated with the Immortal Mirror, causing the Li family to never dare to bring it out again. It had remained at the bottom of a chest, never used. Second was the ancient magical artifact, the Profound Pattern Bottle, which could transform in different ways according to various orthodox lineages, being extremely marvelous. Whether it could be refined into a spirit embryo was still a question, as different magical powers producing different wonders truly didn't resemble Bright Yang. If it were refined and couldn't be nurtured, it would become a laughingstock. Moreover, it had been taken and used by Li Zhouwei and was not at home.

After much consideration, the safest option currently was the Shi Chuan, which was an excellent choice. Under the Bright Yang divine ability, the Shi Chuan had long been refined. Now, emitting a gentle celestial light, it quietly descended onto the central celestial platform. Li Ximing then flicked his finger.

"Rumble!" Red and white flickered, and bright golden flames mixed with Bright Yang purple fire boiled, forming a spherical ball of light on the celestial platform, making the Shi Chuan glow brilliantly. The twelve Foundation Establishment cultivators simultaneously activated their techniques, and twelve energy pathways lit up on the main platform, stabilizing the flames.

Once the platform was activated, six of the cultivators could wait for their turn, ensuring that manpower wouldn't be overly strained. Li Ximing first used his celestial light divine ability from his brow to measure and calculate the amount and timing of Fiery Essence and malevolent qi needed for the next three days. He then handed a jade slip to Li Minggong, who had flown down, and instructed him: "This Observation Platform will be under your supervision. Among all these people, you cultivate True Fire and have some understanding of artifact refining. You can also accurately time various steps. For now, you oversee the replenishment of Fiery Essence and malevolent qi."

Once Chu Minglian from the Ning family arrived, Li Ximing could almost completely step back: 'Although Minggong cultivates True Fire and can attempt artifact refining, his talent isn't high. Chu Minglian has had a connection with our family for many years; this time, he might just gain some insight into our orthodox lineage...'

After arranging the matters concerning the spirit embryo, he rode the light, taking Li Jiangqian and the other person towards Zhijing Mountain. Within a few days, the Li family had set up formations and begun refining the spirit embryo, presenting a completely new atmosphere. Li Jiangqian hesitated, seemingly having something to say, but had to delay due to the continuous changes. He first bowed and said, "Reporting, True Person... This Observation Platform uses a great deal of manpower, practically exhausting the Foundation Establishment cultivators on the lake... I wonder how many years it will take to refine..."

Refining a spirit embryo was less troublesome and demanding than a spiritual artifact, as it needed constant nurturing to maintain its Purple Mansion rank. Li Ximing estimated that even a Purple Mansion cultivator without the relevant orthodox lineage could complete it in a few decades. Even if the quality was slightly inferior, it would still be a spirit embryo. And with "Observation Platform Divine Ability: Refining in Fire," an ancient magical formula employing twelve Foundation Establishment cultivators, the time should be reduced to within eight years. More importantly, there was the 'To the White Sun Guardian' spiritual essence given by Kui Qi. Although it hadn't been used yet, the fact that Kui Qi specifically mentioned it likely meant it would be highly beneficial for the spirit embryo.

As for Fiery Essence and malevolent qi, Zhijing Mountain had no shortage, and with the augmentation of Purple Mansion True Fire, Li Ximing simply replied, "Just wait a while; it won't take many years either way. Retrieve the Bright Yang resources from the family for inspection and finish refining as soon as possible."

Li Jiangqian assented, and Li Quewan softly said, "Reporting, True Person, the sixteen pillars on the isle have already marked their boundaries. The earth's脉 has shifted, making the original spiritual fields and spiritual energy entirely different. The grotto-heavens and palaces are also unusable. We are now re-measuring the spiritual and earth's脉 to design new palace locations."

Li Ximing nodded. Li Jiangqian then updated him on the cultivation progress of several family members, mentioning that Li Xinghan, Li Zhouda, and his two younger brothers, Li Jianglong and Li Jiangxia, were all in seclusion attempting breakthroughs. Li Ximing listened with satisfaction and replied, "Now, the Suīyuán Pill holds no secrets for our family, and our direct bloodline is improving, making the probability of Foundation Establishment very high. However, we must also exercise restraint. Foundation Establishment values quality over quantity, and supporting them is a huge expense. Whether it's spiritual energy or resources, the requirements for each advancement are enormous... especially for those with poorer aptitude... Our family has sixteen mansions and two mountains. Zhijing Mountain barely supports my cultivation. Even with the vastness of Milin Mountain, at most, it can comfortably sustain about thirty Foundation Establishment cultivators. Once the number of direct descendants at Foundation Establishment is sufficient, the Suīyuán Pills should be granted through careful selection."

In fact, Li Ximing had more worries. The Li family's rapid growth in power was not entirely a good thing, and the number of branches and sub-factions below was increasing. So he said softly, "Let's wait for a few people to emerge from seclusion... then we can discuss further." He then flicked his sleeve and asked, "How are things on the riverbank?"

Li Jiangqian respectfully said, "The changes have been extremely drastic... First, on the Jiangnan side, True Person Zhu Gong disappeared, and his soul lamp dimmed. The Muquan Sect was originally a makeshift organization, and with such an incident, not only did various factions below disagree, but even direct descendants had conflicts, almost paralyzing it. Tensions between several factions are very high; I heard they're almost on the verge of fighting. As for the All-Immortal Path... all the prefectures and cities under its rule are now in self-preservation mode, being played around by a group of unknown individuals. Guan Gongxiao sends letters almost every other day. Now that he's heard our family has established a Purple Mansion Grand Formation, he's guessed a few things and has written several letters asking our family for help."

Li Ximing nodded noncommittally and replied, "Continue."

"And then there's the Sophora Soul Palace... the situation is even worse... A while ago, there was news of the Black Rat Taoist's death, which was quite normal. But the news I received this morning is that Taoist Bai... was murdered! Even the legendary Secret Universal Token has vanished without a trace... Although his protectors immediately sealed off the news, the place leaks like a sieve, and everyone quickly found out!"

"Taoist Bai died prematurely!"

"Indeed... It's said that before his death... his soul was scattered, and all his magical power and vital essence seemed to have been completely drained, with not even a single anomaly appearing. Were it not for his fluttering clothes and fallen magical artifacts... everyone in the Sophora Soul Palace would have thought he quietly departed..."

Li Ximing was startled, then frowned and said, "Alas... The Purple Smoke Sect's stage has ultimately been utterly demolished..." At this, a sense of unease slowly grew in Li Ximing's heart. Ning Wan was not only different from Ding Lan Ge but also in a different situation. If he were Ning Wan, at this moment, besides maintaining the status quo and not crossing the river, he probably wouldn't have the ability to intervene further.

'As for the True Monarch... I don't know what level of cultivation he possesses... Now that the Sophora Soul Palace Master is dead, I wonder who will bear the karmic consequences...'

"Wang Qushuan... Has there been any news from her?"

Li Jiangqian shook his head silently. Seeing Li Ximing deep in thought, and having seemingly concluded his arrangements, Li Jiangqian quickly said, "Reporting, True Person, there's also some good news... Earlier, I had heard rumors of Father's whereabouts; he was seen in the Purple Smoke Sect's market. At that time, I only knew he was safe and residing in the East Sea, which was a relief. Now, news of your return, True Person, has reached Zongquan Island, and Zongquan has sent a reply. Father had been in seclusion near Zongquan, secretly cultivating a secret art. Now that he has emerged, upon hearing of your return, he sent a message home... He is preparing... to enter seclusion to break through to the Purple Mansion!"

Li Jiangqian's words finally made Li Ximing's eyes light up: "Finally, there's news of him!"

Li Zhouwei didn't elaborate much in his letter, but how could Li Ximing not understand the implication? Li Zhouwei had no need to reveal his whereabouts to the family; his intention was clearly to meet Li Ximing before entering seclusion! The Li family was not what it once was. Back then, Xiao Yuansi had to painstakingly refine pills, but now, Li Ximing could fully prepare all the resources needed to advance a foundational immortal to the Ascendant Yang stage for Li Zhouwei! Moreover, the experience Li Zhouwei gained from cultivating secret arts was also extremely valuable. Furthermore, as the most central figures of the Li family, having been out of contact for so many years, they truly needed to meet urgently.

'I should have suspected it earlier! For him, the East Sea is naturally the safest place. Moreover, Zongquan Island is the territory of that esteemed Dragon Son, and with our own family island there, it couldn't be better.' He pondered carefully, slightly worried that Chang Xiao might intercept him midway. Although the current Li Ximing was no longer the fledgling Purple Mansion cultivator unfamiliar with combat, Chang Xiao would not underestimate him. 'By using the Immortal Mirror for detection, no matter how powerful Chang Xiao's divine abilities are, or how precise his calculations, he will never be able to ambush me midway!'

Li Ximing did not hesitate. He took out another jade talisman, handed it to Li Jiangqian, and said in a deep voice, "I should have met with the clansmen and celebrated the Purple Mansion formation, but this matter is urgent. I will immediately make a trip to the East Sea; traversing the void is quick, and I'll be back soon. If there's any news, just crush the jade talisman to inform me!"