Chapter 250: The age of great strife pioneered by the Dao Ancestor is coming!

Incense smoke curled softly in the Mountain God Temple, drifting out from the hall toward the distance; Hu Xiaocao gazed at the vivid snake statue, her eyes filled with awe and a hint of longing.

The atmosphere fell into an extreme silence for a moment, and neither the village chief nor Hu Xiaocao spoke.

Although Hu Xiaocao was younger than the village chief and a junior, her cultivation level and her past relationship with the Mountain God were evident; even at her young age she bore the demeanor of a great person, and the villagers all respected her.

In the village, whenever a major matter was discussed, Hu Xiaocao had a place; she was the youngest among them, showing her weight in Longyuan Village.

Likewise, the village chief had watched Hu Xiaocao grow up, knew her character well, and once she decided on something, not even nine oxen could pull her back.

He had originally wanted to take a puff of dry tobacco, but thinking that this was the Mountain God Temple and wishing to avoid offending the Mountain God, he quickly dismissed the idea.

The village chief's gaze solemn, he said: "Xiaocao, have you decided?"

Hu Xiaocao nodded without hesitation: "I have decided."

Since establishing a sect in Longyuan Village, this matter is not just Hu Xiaocao's alone; it concerns the whole village and cannot be decided by the two of them.

The village chief nodded: "Alright, then let's all discuss together."

Soon the venerable elders of the village all came over; except for Hu Xiaocao with her full head of black hair, nearly everyone had white sideburns, but they were spirited and looked in good condition.

It had been many years since the last time everyone gathered like this; for so many years the village had been peaceful, with no major events, and almost all village affairs big and small were decided by the village chief, so there was no need for them.

Now such a gathering, one can imagine something must have happened; every face showed doubt.

"What's going on, calling us over in such a hurry—what big thing happened?"

"Could it be that outsiders are trying to intrude on Longyuan Mountain again, and it's our turn to act?"

"Or could it be about the Mountain God? Longyuan Mountain has been peaceful all these years, with no abnormal situation."

"Or is there some new instruction from the Mountain God's envoy?"

Everyone chatted among themselves.

"This time we gathered everyone to discuss an important matter."

The village chief cleared his throat a few times; the originally noisy room instantly fell silent, and everyone's eyes turned to him: "Chief, if you have something to say, just say it directly, don't beat around the bush."

"Xiaocao and I said we want to establish a sect here; I want to hear everyone's opinion."

This remark was like a drop of water falling into hot oil, instantly causing an uproar; everyone stared wide-eyed: "What does establishing a sect mean?"

Under Hu Xiaocao's explanation, everyone understood her idea; these elders looked at each other, a flicker of incomprehension in their eyes: "Xiaocao, why did you think of establishing a sect?"

"I know you've grown accustomed to the peaceful mountain life and dislike worldly disturbances, but if such talent were just buried, wouldn't that be a pity?"

Everyone nodded in agreement; it had to be said that Hu Xiaocao's words still made sense.

"Xiaocao's words make sense, but we can only do this; otherwise, could we really take on disciples?"

"Why not? Taking on a disciple would also help pass on our skills."

"But wouldn't it be a bit troublesome? Considering our village lies beside Longyuan Mountain, what would we do if someone with ill intentions sneaked in?"

"Your words reminded me—people's hearts are unfathomable, and since they're not villagers, we don't know their background, so I'm still a bit worried."

Many felt moved, but founding a sect is no small matter; many things must be considered, and since they've never handled such affairs, they inevitably felt some worry.

The people of Longyuan Village are like reclusive sages beyond the world, living isolated lives; their life has always been this way, and there's nothing different about it.

Hu Xiaocao has seen the wider world outside, so her perspective naturally differs; she handed the materials in her hand to the clan elders.

"Please, elders, take a look; this is the information I gathered, all of it concerning a series of events that have occurred in the outside world in recent years."

Others may not know the details, but Hu Xiaocao could see at a glance that these were the deeds of those monsters on Longyuan Mountain; besides them, who else could possess such vast divine ability?

In Hu Xiaocao's impression, both the Mountain God and those monsters have always been low-key, yet in recent years they have frequently appeared before people's eyes; there must be something significant behind this.

She could even conclude that these actions should be done with the Mountain God's consent, but why the Mountain God lets these monsters act this way, Hu Xiaocao does not know.

But one thing is certain: these monsters have already entered the mortal eye; sooner or later, everyone will realize that mysterious power still exists in this world.

Seeing the materials in their hands, the villagers' faces filled with astonishment, unable to believe: "Are these all things that happened in recent years?"

Hu Xiaocao nodded: "I believe you can also see that these are all the deeds of the Longyuan Mountain monsters, including various portentous eruptions; surely it is with the Mountain God's consent, otherwise they would not create such a commotion."

"Good heavens, we live right beside Longyuan Mountain and didn't even know the Mountain God's envoys have already left the mountain."

Looking at the materials in their hands, the villagers felt deeply moved; they had long known the Mountain God was extraordinary, and even the animals on the mountain had received its blessings, transforming into monsters and becoming spirits.

Yet they never imagined that, invisibly, these monsters' strength had long surpassed their imagination.

"If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I probably wouldn't dare believe it; it's truly miraculous."

"Compared to that, our progress is still too slow."

"One can't say that either; these are personally taught by the Mountain God—how could we compare to them?"

Although the villagers' skills are not ordinary, they are still mortal flesh; how could they be compared to those monsters that have survived the Heavenly Tribulation?

Actually, each of these things taken alone isn't that shocking, but when all are gathered together, they leave one awestruck; even a fool would keenly sense that something is off.

After all, the Mountain God has always remained hidden; now causing such a stir in the outside world, it's hard not to make people think more.

After reading the materials, the villagers' expressions became exceedingly complex.

"Xiaocao, you are the smartest in our village and also have the highest cultivation level; tell us what you think about these matters."

Hu Xiaocao's cool gaze swept over everyone's faces; although she is young, the aura emanating from her is not to be underestimated, and for a moment everyone sat upright with solemn respect.

"I think this is the Mountain God sending a signal to the outside world—Longyuan Mountain is about to emerge, and sooner or later people will know of the Mountain God's and the monsters' existence."

The moment her words fell, the hall erupted in an uproar: "Really? Is the Mountain God going to appear in the public eye?"

"This girl Xiaocao is clever and quick-witted; her saying this must mean she has considerable confidence."

"Good heavens, does that mean we might also get to see the Mountain God in the future?"

The Mountain God has always been a low-key, mysterious representative in the villagers' hearts, but Hu Xiaocao's words are not without reason; if it weren't so, why would those monsters create such a commotion with no attempt at concealment?

"If that's the case, we have such ability and need not hide it; we have once received gifts from the Mountain God, so we should certainly do something for the Mountain God."

Hu Xiaocao's proposal gained the agreement of most people.

"Xiaocao is right; those monsters have caused such a commotion, we can't just stand by and watch."

"The Mountain God has always blessed our village; we too ought to do something."

I think Hu Xiaocao's earlier idea of founding a sect is great; since the Mountain God has decided to let Longyuan Mountain come into being, our village can't fall behind—we must follow the Mountain God's steps.

Perfect, we haven't exercised in a while—why not take this chance to let everyone see our Longyuan Village? It would also be a contribution to the Mountain God.

Originally everyone had some doubts, but after Hu Xiaocao's words, all their last reservations were completely dispelled; everyone voted and decided to support Hu Xiaocao establishing a sect in the village.

Hu Xiaocao took out the plan she had already prepared, listing every detail and regulation; it could be said to be meticulous to the extreme.

This is my plan; everyone can look at it. If anyone is illiterate, let the literate uncles and aunts explain it.

The village chief gave a teasing smile, 'Hu Xiaocao, it looks like you've prepared everything; you're just waiting for everyone to give the okay.'

Founding the sect wasn't a spur-of-the-moment idea for Hu Xiaocao; she had planned it long ago, and now everything is ready except for the final catalyst.

Since we all owe this opportunity to the Mountain God, we will honor the Mountain God as our Patriarch, and name the sect using the two characters 'Longyuan'—'Longyuan Immortal Sect.' Any objections?

Everyone quickly shook their heads: 'That's natural, and the name Longyuan Immortal Sect sounds good, not much different from the original.'

Hu Xiaocao spoke fluently, already becoming everyone's backbone; under her explanation, the matter of founding the sect became clear and easy to understand, even for villagers who hadn't studied much.

The village chief beamed with satisfaction, 'I have a proposal: since this idea was put forward by Hu Xiaocao, and she has the highest cultivation level among us, the sect leader position should naturally go to her.'

The village chief had never managed a sect either, and other villagers only knew a little about it; thus, Hu Xiaocao taking the role of sect leader is perfectly fitting.

Hu Xiaocao still wanted to defer, 'But everyone here, whether in seniority or generation, is far above me—especially the village chief, who has devoted years of effort to the village.'

The village chief waved his hands repeatedly, 'Hu Xiaocao, don't be modest—being sect leader is everyone's wish, and since I know little about sect affairs I'd mess it up, but you have high cultivation level, are young, and can hold the fort.'

The second granduncle beside him also kept nodding, 'Yeah, we're all old; the future should belong to you young people.'

Other elders shared the same view, after all this idea was proposed by Hu Xiaocao, she had planned it for so long, and with her own strength, she is truly deserving.

I believe that under Hu Xiaocao's leadership, our Longyuan Immortal Sect will surely accomplish great things!

Faced with the villagers' eager, expectant gazes, Hu Xiaocao couldn't refuse any further; she nodded and said, 'Since everyone has high hopes for me, I will certainly not let you down.'

After the sect leader was confirmed, the remaining positions were those of sect elders, assigned according to village seniority and cultivation level ranking, to be held by the village chief, the second granduncle, respected elders of high virtue, and other villagers.

Other villagers also received the news, all gathering together and chattering with questions.

The village chief heard that Longyuan Village was going to be renamed Longyuan Immortal Sect—is that true?

It's not a name change; we are founding a sect. The Mountain God is our Patriarch, Hu Xiaocao becomes our first sect leader, and the village chief is the great elder.

Then will we still need to recruit disciples? The key is who will come to our village to become apprentices; if no one comes, wouldn't that be awkward?

By the way, how should we teach disciples? What should we teach them?

The threshold of the village chief's house was almost worn out by villagers stepping on it; even with an extra mouth, it couldn't be explained clearly. After talking half a day, his mouth went dry, and instead the villagers grew more confused.

Upon seeing Hu Xiaocao arrive, it was like seeing a savior: 'Sect leader, you've finally come—hurry and explain to everyone.'

The village chief quickly entered his role, even his manner of address changed.

Don't rush, everyone—bring up any problems one by one.

Under Hu Xiaocao's explanation, everyone finally understood, all were very supportive, with no one raising objections; however, they were still puzzled, not knowing how to proceed concretely, since they had never done anything like this before.

Hu Xiaocao had anticipated this; she had the village chief gather everyone together to conduct systematic training and study.

The villagers' abilities are sufficient; teaching ordinary people would be more than enough, but expertise is specialized—not everyone is suited to teach.

Hu Xiaocao assigned different positions according to the villagers' personalities; everyone was fully convinced, and had no objections to her planning.

Since it's a large sect, we definitely need sect rules; without rules there can be no order, and we can't be a ragtag troupe, so rules are essential.

Hu Xiaocao asked several village elders to step forward, and together with the village chief they drafted part of the sect rules; the rest will be improved later, after all you can't eat a whole fat pig in one bite.

With Hu Xiaocao and the villagers' continual input, the Longyuan Immortal Sect began to take shape.

Other than that, there's no difference from before; the only change is that Hu Xiaocao gives the villagers lessons every day, and besides cultivation, everyone also has to attend to sect affairs.

Everyone is from the same village, knows each other's backgrounds, the folkways are simple and honest, there's no scheming, and the atmosphere can be described as extremely harmonious.

Founding a sect is easy, but doing it well is hard; relying on her alone isn't enough—the whole village must join in.

Everyone gathered firewood, the flames rose high; carrying reverence and worship for the Mountain God, they threw themselves into building the sect, their energy abundant.

The site was already ready, and initially no investment was needed; they invited Zhang Dashu, the best carpenter in the village, to make a plaque, on which he wrote in vigorous brushwork the four large characters 'Longyuan Immortal Sect'.

Hanging it at the village entrance, it really looks like that; now we can't call it Longyuan Village—it must be renamed Longyuan Immortal Sect.

All the villagers looked at the plaque at the village entrance, their faces showing satisfied expressions.

As for the village chief, he stroked his chin and said, 'I always feel like something is still missing.'

After he said that, other villagers had a similar feeling: 'Yeah, founding a sect is a big deal—we really should set up a few tables to celebrate.'

Yeah, without a sense of ceremony it wouldn't do; it just so happens the village hasn't been lively in a while, so we can take this opportunity.

Following the village chief's suggestion, they picked an auspicious day soon to come and planned to set up a few banquet tables to celebrate the sect's founding.

The villagers bustled about like it was New Year, each household bringing out good things.

When Sun Zhenbang came over to visit the village chief and others, the first thing that met his eyes was a lively scene; some were puzzled, saying, 'I remember it's not yet time for the Mountain God's celebration.'

Over these years, Sun Zhenbang's relationship with the village has been very good, he's kept in touch; although he doesn't live here, in the villagers' eyes he's already one of their own.

Sun Zhenbang stopped a man and asked, 'Uncle Zhang, what big happy event is happening in the village? Everyone seems really pleased.'

'Oh, it's Officer Sun—today you actually have time to come see us.'

After a round of greetings, Sun Zhenbang realized it wasn't just Uncle Zhang—passing villagers were carrying things they don't usually see.

Uncle Zhang's face was full of a mysterious expression: 'Officer Sun, you probably don't know yet—Hu Xiaocao founded the Longyuan Immortal Sect; she is now the sect leader, the village chief is the great elder, and as for me—'

Uncle Zhang paused, then puffed out his chest proudly: 'Under the sect leader's appointment, I am the tenth elder of the Longyuan Immortal Sect!'

Sun Zhenbang:???

He had only not come to the village for a few months, yet it felt as if he hadn't been there for years.

In a short time, Longyuan Village became the Longyuan Immortal Sect?!

The information overload was too much at once, leaving Sun Zhenbang dazed for a long time; he incredulously asked, 'What did you say?'

Uncle Zhang wore a calm expression, as if he thought Sun Zhenbang was overreacting: 'I said Hu Xiaocao founded a sect; now we can't call her by name, that would be disrespectful—we have to call her sect leader.'

Uncle Zhang spilled the beans, pouring out everything that had happened recently.

Xie Yixuan usually enjoys reading novels; Sun Zhenbang, influenced by him, is not unfamiliar with such founding-a-sect matters, but putting it in the real world seems a bit fantastical.

But thinking about it, this is beside Longyuan Village, and the creator is Hu Xiaocao again; amidst the incredibility, it also feels reasonable, after all she has this ability.

Uncle Zhang enthusiastically took Sun Zhenbang's arm and led him to the banquet, saying, "You've come at just the right time; we're setting up a banquet today to celebrate."

By the way, Officer Sun, your strength is not bad; later the Sect Leader will give you a Guest Elder position, how about that?

I'm a police officer; that wouldn't be suitable, right?

Hey, what's unsuitable? Let me tell you, the world will change soon; when Longyuan Mountain comes into being, whether you're a police officer or a military officer, as the Sect Leader says: the age of great strife that the Patriarch founded is coming! (End of chapter)