Chapter 212: Spirit Seals, Condense Wildly! (6k)

Yan Xiao’s eyes widened in shock, his mouth slightly agape, then filled with excitement.

When Old Four reached the Four Flowers Gathering at the Crown, he, like others in Taiqingmen, had only glimpsed that stunning scene distantly through the hazy reflection on the horizon.

Back then, only Master and Second Sister had personally experienced its mystery.

Now, as Old Four transcended to Soul Transformation, he finally had the chance to witness this scene up close.

At this moment, the four-colored flowers grew more solid; the first petal shimmered with silver light—gentle, cold, and brimming with serenity.

The second petal glowed crimson like magma—fiery and violent, as if a volcano ready to erupt.

The third petal was deep blue like the ocean—profound and tranquil.

The final petal, golden with spiritual energy and essence blood, blazed brilliantly like a blazing sun, radiating powerful life force.

These four colors represented Zhou Qing’s four Nascent Soul enhancements.

Now, with his breakthrough to Soul Transformation, their hues had deepened further.

Zhou Qing himself had never anticipated that the spectral images of the four petals would manifest at this critical moment of breakthrough—and seemed to be undergoing an indescribable transformation.

After only a brief time, the first petal changed first, dissolving into countless tiny specks of light that drifted gently into his Primordial Spirit.

As the silver specks touched his spiritual sea, Zhou Qing felt a cool, strange sensation surge into his mind—suddenly, he felt as if standing beneath an endless starry sky.

In that moment, his mind was clearer than ever, as if all distractions had been washed clean by pure moonlight.

“This feeling is…” Zhou Qing’s eyes widened in shock.

This state was just like when he had used the [Sudden Enlightenment Scroll]—his comprehension had been greatly enhanced.

Though he didn’t understand why, such a rare opportunity must not be wasted.

Without hesitation, he immediately channeled spiritual power and immersed himself fully in the array insights left by Elder Xuanqingzi.

Instantly, sixty-six spirit seals erupted around his Primordial Spirit manifestation.

These spirit seals glowed faintly, like tiny stars, slowly orbiting the Primordial Spirit manifestation.

Soon, the sixty-seventh, sixty-eighth, sixty-ninth… appeared.

In a short time, thirty more had formed, reaching ninety-six spirit seals.

Erdaye had been left speechless, stunned into silence.

He was a single-color array master himself, yet he had never seen spirit seals condense this way—shouldn’t it be like a hen laying eggs, gradual and steady?

As for Yan Xiao, he had witnessed this bizarre scene firsthand before; now seeing it again, he fell into deep thought.

“Looks like the path of array masters must be simple. Guess I’ll need a new identity from now on!” he murmured.

As the silver specks finally vanished, the second petal—red—began dissolving into light points and merging into the Primordial Spirit.

Zhou Qing again felt as if immersed in magma, powerful forces relentlessly battering his senses.

His blood began to boil; every cell in his body was activated, brimming with vitality.

His thoughts grew sharper, his perception of the surroundings clearer than ever.

Almost simultaneously, the previously stagnant ninety-sixth spirit seal began forming the ninety-seventh, then the ninety-eighth.

After the red specks fully merged, Zhou Qing condensed another thirty, bringing the total to one hundred twenty-six spirit seals.

Watching this effortless formation of spirit seals, Erdaye felt utterly drained.

All those years he’d toiled over arrays, countless nights buried in obscure array texts and complex spiritual patterns—what was it all for?

Wasn’t it because the remaining five coffins were filled with prohibitions?

Yet after all that effort, he’d only managed to condense forty spirit seals.

Look at him—forming spirit seals as easily as drinking cold water.

Compared to this, his heart churned with bitter envy.

At this moment, he suddenly felt like giving up—why torture himself? Why not just nurture Zhou Qing properly? When his array mastery grows deeper, he can simply take him to break the prohibitions.

Zhou Qing wasn’t satisfied yet—this effect was similar to the [Sudden Enlightenment Scroll], but too brief.

Then, the third petal did the same, making him feel as if he had become a single drop of water merging into an endless ocean.

The gentleness and resilience of water, its boundless tolerance, calmed his heart further.

When the one hundred fifty-sixth spirit seal formed, Erdaye’s expression had long gone numb.

All that remained was a hollow “heh.”

When the final golden specks merged, Zhou Qing clearly felt his spiritual power and essence blood surging rapidly—his body infused with powerful vitality.

As the one hundred eighty-sixth spirit seal formed and hovered around his Primordial Spirit, the manifestation’s eyes slowly opened.

Two beams of light—black and white—projected across heaven and earth, gazing down like a deity.

This made Yan Xiao’s spirit tremble.

Then, the Primordial Spirit manifestation slowly faded, the celestial phenomena returned to normal, and all fell silent.

Erdaye’s expression was complex.

Currently, the entire fourth-level spiritual nation had only nine second-rank array masters; Zhou Qing now needed only fourteen more spirit seals to become the tenth.

It was enough to make anyone envious!

At that moment, Erdaye landed, flashed forward, and appeared inside the cave; Yan Xiao hurriedly picked up the old hen and chased after him.

Inside the cave, Zhou Qing sat cross-legged, surrounded by a thick layer of spirit stone powder.

This breakthrough to Soul Transformation had nearly emptied all his accumulated resources from the past few years.

There was no choice—the energy required for Soul Transformation was immense, let alone that he was unlike ordinary cultivators.

Fortunately, everything went smoothly!

“Finally, Soul Transformation!” Feeling the power within him far surpassing that of a Nascent Soul, and the one hundred eighty-six spirit seals hovering around his Primordial Spirit, Zhou Qing was overjoyed.

It was all worth it!

From now on, his Primordial Spirit—stronger than a Nascent Soul—could survive independently from his body for extended periods.

In danger, even if his physical body was severely damaged, his residual Primordial Spirit could repair and revive itself—unlike a Nascent Soul, which risked total annihilation if injured.

In addition, his lifespan had increased from a thousand years to three thousand.

The formation of his Primordial Spirit also allowed him to wield powerful spiritual techniques, granting him more tools and advantages in battle and cultivation.

The benefits were countless.

As he reveled in his joy, Erdaye suddenly appeared before him, smiling: “Congratulations! You’ve broken through to Soul Transformation before forty—your future is limitless!”

Zhou Qing immediately rose and bowed respectfully to Erdaye.

Without Erdaye, he had no idea how long it would have taken to break through to Soul Transformation—especially the help he’d just received, which he deeply appreciated.

“Thank you,” Zhou Qing said.

Erdaye raised his hand to help Zhou Qing up. “This is all your own effort—no one else’s.”

Zhou Qing’s talent, character, and worldly skills were the finest Erdaye had ever seen.

Sometimes he truly wanted to take him as a disciple—but it was too late.

Then again, if he weren’t Mo Xingjian’s disciple, Erdaye would still be trapped in the third coffin.

“Rest for now. Once your aura stabilizes, I’ll take you back to the academy first—I need to retrieve something—then we head to the border,” Erdaye said.

Zhou Qing nodded; two years ago, Elder had already mentioned this to him.

But he was a little worried—Xuan Yuanshuo, a mid-stage Soul Severing expert, was immensely powerful, and his disciples and adopted sons were all elite warriors, not to be underestimated.

Could he really defeat them?

As if sensing Zhou Qing’s doubts, Erdaye explained: “To eradicate the mark in your spiritual sea, you need something to stimulate it—and only the border has that thing.”

Hearing this, Zhou Qing had no more hesitation: “Got it—I’ll follow your lead, Elder.”

…

“Zhou Shixiong!”

Upon hearing Zhou Qing had returned, Lu Yaoyao didn’t waste a moment—she rushed over at once.

This left Lu Yuanzhi speechless: You just returned from the secret realm—why not change your clothes first?

He’s come back often these past few years—you’ve seen him plenty.

If he hadn’t clarified your relationship, I’d sometimes have to think too much.

【Heart Mirror +9】

When Zhou Qing said he had broken through to Soul Transformation, Lu Yaoyao’s eyes sparkled with admiration, nearly turning into crescent moons.

Her previous tag 【Annoying】 instantly changed to 【Incredible】.

“By the way, where’s Li Shixiong?” Zhou Qing asked.

A year ago, when he returned, Li Daoxuan had already achieved the Chuxing of his own realm—heavenly insight—and they’d celebrated thoroughly.

Lu Yaoyao blinked, answering brightly: “He returned to the sect!”

Zhou Qing was stunned.

Lu Yaoyao explained: Before the Five Sects War ended, he left the Eastern Region and traveled to Haomiao Prefecture to cultivate his heavenly insight.

After so many years, he’d finally made progress and wanted to return home, to resolve his lingering attachment.

After that, he planned to focus entirely on refining his heavenly insight, striving to break through to Soul Transformation as soon as possible.

Zhou Qing understood.

“Then why didn’t you think of going back?” he asked.

After all, Lu Yaoyao hadn’t returned home in years; after he and Third Shixiong went back, Master had specifically asked about her.

Even He Han had waited at her doorstep.

Lu Yaoyao shook her head, looking at Zhou Qing: “Master Lu treats me well. Big Brother told me not to waste this opportunity—and I’m waiting for you to return. Wherever you are, that’s where I am.”

Zhou Qing’s face flushed slightly, but his heart warmed.

After much thought, he told her about their upcoming journey to the border.

Upon hearing this, Lu Yaoyao didn’t hesitate for a moment and firmly declared she would go with him.

“I was afraid you’d say that—the academy’s secret realm…”

“I know, but the border has…” Lu Yaoyao immediately cut him off, yet the words died on her lips.

Zhou Qing frowned. “What?”

Lu Yaoyao pouted. “I just remembered something. Either way, I’m going with you. If you won’t let me, I’ll sneak off.”

Zhou Qing sighed, gazing at her stubborn expression—he truly had no way to resist her.

…

Back in her cave, Lu Yaoyao quietly pulled out the sketchbook depicting Big Mama, Second Mama, and Third Mama.

But now, her expression was grave; she turned the book upside down and slowly opened the first page.

There, in the illustration, was a middle-aged man with disheveled clothes, his face weathered, sunken eyes dull, his back bearing a broken sword, and his hand tightly gripping a little girl of five or six.

Lu Yaoyao stared silently, her lips unconsciously biting down—especially the girl’s terrified, anxious eyes stirred something within her, leaving her silent for a long while.

Then, she slowly turned to the second page.

The scene shifted to a tranquil forest, stars scattered across the sky.

Under the night, the middle-aged man looked even more worn, his beard unkempt, sitting alone by a fire, his gaze fixed on the flames, lost in thought.

Beside him, the little girl lay curled up, wrapped in a tattered garment, fast asleep.

Lu Yaoyao gazed at the image, her eyes filled with tenderness and pity; she reached out and gently touched the man’s face.

When she turned to the third page, they were now in a bustling human city.

On the table lay many delicacies: lotus pastries, steamed sponge cake with honey, glutinous rice balls in wine, mung bean cakes…

The little girl sat at the table, her eyes crinkled with joy—as if she hadn’t been this happy in years—gulping down the food, crumbs clinging to her lips.

The middle-aged man sat quietly beside her, watching. Though his face showed no overt smile, his eyes overflowed with affection—as if her happiness was his greatest joy.

Seeing this, Lu Yaoyao’s lips curved slightly, a warmth flickering in her gaze—but it was quickly replaced by sorrow.

For on the fourth page, the middle-aged man looked like a god of slaughter, gripping his broken sword, a vast, terrifying crimson curtain looming behind him.

He stood amid fierce combat, facing off against towering, monstrous beings—each an Emperor-level demon.

In a distant corner, the little girl crouched, trembling, her face twisted in terror as she waited.

Her eyes locked unblinkingly on the direction of the man’s battle.

Seeing this page, Lu Yaoyao’s eyes welled with tears.

There was nothing else.

Since she could remember, she had been fleeing with her father, hunted relentlessly—mostly by those terrifying demon emperors.

The border of the Holy Martial Empire adjoins several demon mountains, and more than one demon emperor dwells there. Perhaps the truth of that time began there.

Yet that very night, while cultivating in his cave, Zhou Qing suddenly opened his eyes.

Yan Xiao Hu poked his head over.

After a glance at each other, they rushed out.

It wasn’t just them—the air’s spiritual energy had collapsed, and many inner and outer academy disciples awoke from their dreams.

Under the night sky, a blinding light shot skyward.

“That direction is… Master?” Zhou Qing suddenly realized something, his eyes brightening, and he hurried off.

When they arrived, they found the outer perimeter packed with inner academy disciples, and several instructors hovering in midair.

Following the light’s source, they saw Lin Daochen standing with eyes closed, surrounded by countless luminous spiritual seals interwoven like threads.

His aura surged powerfully—he had just broken through to the peak of Soul Transformation, and spiritual energy from the heavens still poured into his body.

But that wasn’t the point. The point was: the number of floating seals around him had surpassed three thousand.

These seals continuously intertwined and collided, emitting harmonious hums.

“Three thousand spiritual seals—truly three thousand! Master Lin has finally become a Level Three Array Master!”

“Yes, after all these years, the Holy Martial Empire has its third Level Three Array Master. A cause for celebration!”

“I bet people from the imperial capital will rush here to congratulate him soon.”

“Oh, if I’d only studied harder under Master, I’d have such a powerful backing—I’d never fear being bullied again!”

…

Everyone murmured in awe and envy.

Who would have thought they’d witness the birth of a Level Three Array Master so close at hand?

Zhou Qing, among the crowd, genuinely rejoiced for his Master.

After a long while, Lin Daochen slowly opened his eyes, beaming with joy.

“Congratulations, Master! Hail, Master!”

Numerous students bowed in tribute.

Lin Daochen nodded slightly, smiling gently and humbly. “Mutual congratulations!”

Soon, news spread swiftly: Lin Daochen of the Baiyu Tai Xu Academy in Longyuan Prefecture had ascended to Level Three Array Master.

Two days later, the Governor of Longyuan Prefecture himself arrived to offer congratulations.

After all, this Level Three Array Master hailed from one of the nine prefectures under his jurisdiction.

When the Blood Forbidden Army entered the academy, all were filled with awe and wonder.

It was said the Blood Forbidden Army’s trials were terrifying—each member required at least Soul Transformation, and their ranks were strictly maintained at three hundred.

That meant at least three hundred Soul Transformation experts answered directly to the Governor’s command.

Such overwhelming power made any faction dare not underestimate him.

Inside the thatched cottage!

Governor Zhong Yao of Longyuan Prefecture, clad in a solemn official robe, sat upright, his gaze fixed on Lin Daochen, his face brimming with respect.

“Master Lin, we’ve known each other a long time—I won’t beat around the bush. I’ve come on behalf of the Prince.” Zhong Yao’s voice was steady and strong.

Lin Daochen was surprised. “The Prince has a request?”

Zhong Yao sighed softly, his expression turning grave, then rose.

He spoke slowly: “Since the demon emperor of Taiyao Mountain died in Lingyun Prefecture, the border situation has grown increasingly complex. Especially these past two years—conflicts have been constant, with casualties on both sides.”

Zhong Yao paused, then continued: “The Prince originally didn’t intend to ask you—he first invited Master Su and Master Wu to assist secretly in setting up defensive arrays.”

“But now that you’ve ascended to Level Three Array Master, the Prince believes your array skills have reached a new height, and he hopes you’ll lend your aid to strengthen the border defenses.”

Lin Daochen listened silently, his fingers lightly tapping the table, lost in thought.

Su Lishan and Wu Tiangang—both were already famed Level Three Array Masters of the Holy Martial Empire.

He had once had the honor of visiting them, learning immensely from their insights.

He hadn’t expected even they had gone to the border. If he went now, he could exchange array insights with these two elders.

Soon, Lin Daochen looked up. “That’s no problem. But I’d like to bring two assistants to help.”

Zhong Yao’s worried face instantly lit up. “Thank you, Master! Even two hundred wouldn’t be an issue! I assume these two are your prized students?”

Lin Daochen nodded, a hint of pride in his eyes.

“They possess extraordinary talent for understanding arrays. My own breakthrough to Level Three was thanks largely to one of them. But the border is perilous—I’m unsure if they’ll agree to go.”

Zhong Yao hurriedly said, “Shall I speak with them?”

“No,” Lin Daochen quickly replied. “Let me speak with them myself.”

“If you go, it changes the nature of things. And since I began cultivating, I’ve never forced anyone.”

Zhong Yao nodded vigorously.

Suddenly, Lin Daochen asked: “I’ve always wondered—is it true the Prince killed the demon emperor of Taiyao Mountain?”

Zhong Yao smiled bitterly. “I have no knowledge of such secrets, nor would I dare speculate. But the Prince has never denied the rumors…”

Lin Daochen understood, nodded, then stood. “When do we depart?”

Zhong Yao’s expression brightened. “The sooner, the better.”

Lin Daochen thought briefly. “Understood. I’ll need two days to bid farewell to old friends and arrange affairs here.”

Zhong Yao nodded. “Then I’ll prepare the teleportation arrays and space vessels across all prefectures to ensure your safety and that of your companions.”

With that, Zhong Yao bowed to Lin Daochen and turned to leave the thatched cottage.

Lin Daochen watched his retreating figure, pondered a moment, then walked toward Second Uncle’s cave.

Zhou Qing was recommended by Yunya. If Yunya agreed to go to the border, this boy would likely follow.

…

Inside the cave!

Second Uncle had just returned and heard of Lin Daochen’s ascension—he was delighted.

“Just as I expected. Keep working hard—aim for Level Two Array Master. Then you can fill the vacancy!” Second Uncle said with high hopes.

Previously, the Holy Martial Empire had maintained nine Level Two Array Masters. Now that Lin Daochen had ascended to Level Three, one spot had opened.

Zhou Qing smiled faintly, feeling a quiet anticipation.

After all, he was only fourteen spiritual seals short. If a sudden enlightenment scroll appeared one day, he could reach it blindfolded.

“Uncle, should we go greet Master?” Zhou Qing asked hesitantly.

Second Uncle thought, then shook his head. “No need. Too many people are visiting him now—Governor Zhong Yao is even there. Wait until Master has time.”

Both nodded.

(End of Chapter)