Chapter 231

Facing Zhou Qing’s sudden words, Lu Yuanzhi stopped and turned around in confusion.

The Zhou Qing before her had not only taken as master a former peer of the Soul Severing realm, but also displayed extraordinary talent in array arts, earning deep favor from Master Lin Daochen.

Moreover, she had personally witnessed that sharp battle on the border.

And since both were Nascent Soul cultivators, at this level they could essentially address each other as fellow Daoists.

Thus, facing Zhou Qing’s words, Lu Yuanzhi’s expression turned serious, and she said earnestly: “Say what you will.”

Zhou Qing spoke slowly: “To be honest, I once came across a secret formula in an ancient text—it can treat the backlash from failed Soul Severing, but only for certain special individuals.”

Upon hearing this, Lu Yuanzhi’s calm eyes instantly widened in shock, her voice trembling with urgency: “What formula?”

Zhou Qing said: “Have you ever heard of the Nine-Leaf Soul-Condensing Flower?”

Lu Yuanzhi immediately frowned slightly in thought, then nodded after a long pause: “I think I’ve heard of it—apparently it grows in certain misty swamps.”

Zhou Qing nodded, then pulled out Zhang Wanbao’s jade slip and projected an image of the spiritual herb, making it easier for Master Lu to memorize.

“If you can find this herb and refine it, recovery should be possible within half a year—but I’m not certain of its authenticity!” said Zhou Qing.

Upon hearing this, Lu Yuanzhi was overwhelmed with excitement, her hands trembling uncontrollably as she repeated incoherently: “Wonderful, wonderful…”

When she regained her composure and looked at Zhou Qing again, her eyes were filled with gratitude.

“Zhou Qing, whether or not it works, I, Lu Yuanzhi, will never forget this favor—should you ever need anything in the future, just say the word!”

Zhou Qing bowed slightly and said: “Senior, you’re too kind.”

Only after Lu Yuanzhi’s figure vanished completely from view did Zhou Qing exhale a long breath.

He had refrained from mentioning this in front of Master Lin precisely to avoid causing him trouble.

After all, over the years, countless Nascent Soul cultivators who failed Soul Severing have suffered—some, like Eight-Tailed Lu Yuanjiu, endure endless agony, wishing for death.

Others vanish outright, their souls scattered into nothingness.

If this news spread, the resulting bloodshed would be unimaginable.

Yet the final outcome demands an extraordinarily strong demonic beast body and superhuman willpower to have even a chance of success.

If they die in failure, wouldn’t they blame Master Lin for it?

At the very least, the Misty Swamp Eel clan might be wiped out because of his single remark.

Even further, even if they find it, can Lu Yuanjiu even survive the process?

Upon returning to his cave, Yan Xiaohu rushed over excitedly: “Fourth Brother, isn’t this strange? Since that night when Imperial Consort Chen chased the white-robed man, he hasn’t shown up at all during these two days you were gone.”

It was clear Yan Xiaohu was somewhat disappointed.

After all, he’d finally gotten a juicy gossip and was planning to tease the man later.

Now the man simply didn’t show up.

“Maybe this guy really is called Lin Jin!” Yan Xiaohu stroked his chin, pretending to make a profound guess.

Zhou Qing looked at him seriously and warned: “Don’t involve yourself in this. When you and Brother Li were away, I tracked him—I estimate he’s at late Nascent Soul or even full Nascent Soul.”

“And this concerns the imperial family’s honor—be careful not to bring trouble upon yourself.”

Yan Xiaohu nodded frantically: “Understood—I was just joking with you, I know the stakes. Thanks to your quick reaction that night, no one noticed we’d left.”

Zhou Qing nodded slightly, then shifted topic: “Good. But Third Brother, I’ve noticed you’ve become lax since breaking through to Nascent Soul mid-stage.”

“Look at Little Sister Lu—she’s pushing hard toward Nascent Soul late-stage.”

Hearing this, Yan Xiaohu’s face flushed with embarrassment, and he chuckled awkwardly: “Actually, when you weren’t around, I’ve been training hard.”

“But what can I do? I’m a Earth Vein Foundation Establishment, and I’ve had no such great mentor—this damn academy has not a single person with vision.”

Seeing this, Zhou Qing sighed helplessly.

…

In the following half-month, Zhou Qing finally fully absorbed the notes and insights of the three array masters.

His understanding of arrays deepened considerably; many previously vague concepts now became clear.

Just as he was about to retrieve the jade slip from Zhang Wanbao containing rare treasures for detailed study, Lu Yaoyao finally emerged from her seclusion.

Accompanying her was Lu Yuanzhi.

“I’m heading to Qingming Prefecture to see if I can get lucky—they have several mountain ranges with more misty swamps.”

“But since Yaoyao is still in trials, I was hesitant to leave until now!” said Lu Yuanzhi.

Zhou Qing nodded and reminded her to be cautious.

If Senior Lu Yuanjiu truly recovers using the Nine-Leaf Soul-Condensing Flower, Master Lu may finally be free of burdens and fully attempt Soul Severing.

Once she ascends to Soul Severing, her power and status will grant her unparalleled authority—and like Second Uncle, she’ll be free from imperial interference.

At that point, rescuing her imprisoned family members might become truly effortless for her.

After Lu Yuanzhi departed, Lu Yaoyao and Yan Xiaohu turned curious eyes toward Zhou Qing.

What were you two whispering about just now? We didn’t understand a word.

Zhou Qing merely smiled without answering.

“Zhou younger brother!” At that moment, Li Daoxuan arrived.

Seeing Little Sister had also emerged, his face lit up: “Everyone’s here—perfect! I’m planning to return to Taiqingmen for seclusion!”

Lu Yaoyao’s eyes instantly brightened with excitement: “Big Brother, are you about to break through to Soul Transformation?”

Li Daoxuan smiled and nodded: “Yes. Recently, with Brother Yan’s help, my realm understanding is nearly complete—now I only need that final step.”

“Brother Li, you’re awesome!” Zhou Qing cheered.

Li Daoxuan chuckled bitterly: “Zhou younger brother, don’t tease me—I didn’t go to the border, but Brother Yan told me all about you. Your Xiao Ling Peak now has three Nascent Soul cultivators among four.”

As soon as he said this, Li Daoxuan realized his mistake and immediately glanced at Yan Xiaohu.

Sure enough, Yan Xiaohu slumped his face, pretending to be offended: “Big Brother Li, I helped you so much, and this is how you repay me? Why bring up the one thing I hate?”

Li Daoxuan apologized profusely, making everyone burst into laughter.

In truth, since arriving at Haomiao Prefecture less than ten years ago, all four of them had made progress.

At the very least, Lu Yaoyao and Yan Xiaohu had both broken through to Nascent Soul mid-stage; Zhou Qing, of course, had leapt three realms—his advancement was downright terrifying.

Even more astonishing, he hadn’t neglected his array studies at all.

Yet now, Zhou Qing’s expression turned hesitant.

He had originally planned to wait until Second Uncle’s affairs were settled before returning together—this way, the journey would be faster and safer.

After all, since the overall strength of the Eastern Region declined, countless sect members from the other three regions now linger and covet its lands.

With a Soul Severing cultivator having perished, many from other prefectures are also watching—returning alone would invite grave danger.

But if Li Daoxuan learned Second Uncle was returning with them, everyone at Taiqingmen would know.

And Second Uncle plans to enter the Inner Realm next—wouldn’t the various Elders be able to watch him, even if they can’t track a Soul Severing cultivator?

Wouldn’t that expose the passage near Lu Yaoyao’s residence?

Of course, exposure wouldn’t matter—Second Uncle had already left clues for the Supreme Elders inside.

But the key point is, Second Uncle seems unwilling to entangle himself in Taiqingmen’s karmic affairs—even to meet the brothers he once drank and joked with.

To him, every sect he’d ever joined was merely a passing stop.

After faking his death and escaping, he severed all ties to their endless turmoil.

Yet suddenly, he sensed something and instinctively glanced to the side.

There stood a paper doll behind a rock outside the cave, gently waving at him.

Zhou Qing’s face lit up; he turned to the others and said: “Wait here a moment—I’ll be right back.”

He swiftly returned to the cave.

With a gesture, the paper doll floated toward him.

“Kid, I’m still being chased right now just to get some good nourishment for the ten-thousand-year blood ginseng—I won’t be back anytime soon.”

“So if you want to visit your master, go ahead—I’ll find you once I’m free!”

With that, the paper doll lost its spiritual energy and drifted down as before.

Zhou Qing was speechless.

What on earth had he gotten his hands on to make a Soul Severing cultivator look so desperate?

Had he drawn the attention of multiple Soul Severing cultivators hunting him together?

Thinking of this, Zhou Qing sucked in a sharp breath.

After brief thought, he made his decision, stepped out, and asked Li Daoxuan: “Brother Li, when do you plan to depart?”

Li Daoxuan answered honestly: “Tomorrow.”

Zhou Qing nodded: “Good. Pack up—we’re going home tomorrow!”

“Home!” they chorused, their eyes instantly alight with excitement.

Before leaving, they specifically bought some local specialties to take back.

Otherwise, like last time when Zhou Qing and Yan Xiaohu forgot and bought things in Lingyun Prefecture’s own shop to give to Mo Xingjian—it would’ve been so awkward.

After one day of preparation, the four bid farewell to Master Lin and headed for the teleportation array.

But before departure, Zhou Qing specially visited the Dean.

Old Weng was somewhat surprised that he and Master Lin had repaired the Four-Color Array.

Although Zhou Qing had attained Nascent Soul under his very eyes, he didn’t think much of the array aspect—only assumed Master Lin Daochen’s depth and skill were extraordinary.

Zhou Qing offered no further explanation; after leaving, he joined Lu Yaoyao and the others toward the teleportation array.

Zhou Qing offered no further explanation; after leaving, he headed with Lu Yaoyao and the others toward the location of the teleportation array.

“Oh, Young Master Zhou, it’s you!”

"Oh, Young Master Zhou, it's you!"

When the group arrived at the central square, it was still packed with people, bustling and lively.

To their surprise, even after several years had passed, people from other prefectures and regions still came to Lingyun Prefecture, seeking the opportunities left behind by the fallen Zhanling cultivators.

Just as they queued up, a familiar voice suddenly rang out from ahead.

Immediately, a graceful figure appeared before them.

“Ke Shu?” Seeing him, Lu Yaoyao couldn’t help but sneer, a flicker of disdain in her eyes.

Indeed, the man was none other than the only son of the Prefect of Haomiao Prefecture—Ke Shu.

Last time the Seventh Imperial Prince and Ninth Princess came to the academy, he had accompanied them constantly, serving them diligently.

While the group chatted and caught up, he had actively poured tea and refilled water, lowering himself completely, afraid of offending anyone.

But when he first came to Taiqingmen, his impression on the four of them had not been good.

Back then, he had arrived with several guardian companions, arrogant and haughty.

He summoned Zhou Qing and Yan Xiaohu and others before him, ordering them about, asking if they had seen any red tokens in Ghost City—his condescending attitude was deeply repulsive.

But given his status, the group had merely nodded reluctantly, offering a token response.

“Young Master Ke,” Zhou Qing greeted him calmly and politely.

Ke Shu beamed with enthusiasm. “Are the four of you planning to return to Taiqingmen?”

Zhou Qing nodded. “Yes, we intend to visit our elders.”

Ke Shu immediately looked impressed and launched into a stream of flattery.

He praised their filial piety, reverence for teachers, and their role as exemplary models.

The group smiled politely.

After all, Ke Shu’s obsequiousness stemmed solely from their close ties with the Seventh Imperial Prince and Ninth Princess.

Across the entire Shengwu Empire, with its eight commanderies and seventy-two prefectures, those within the imperial capital’s system could greatly benefit their futures by forging connections with imperial princes and princesses.

All of them understood this implicitly, and none spoke of it.

“The queue is long now, but this is my territory—wait a moment, all four of you!”

After speaking, Ke Shu swiftly vanished inside.

“He’s a true villain—but far better than those hypocrites. Better to befriend him than to make an enemy.”

Li Daoxuan, as the senior brother, watched Ke Shu’s retreating back and softly warned the group.

People like Ke Shu were worldly, smooth-tongued, even somewhat sycophantic—but at least their actions were open, lacking the treachery and deceit of hypocrites.

And it was always better to have one more friend than one more enemy.

The three nodded in agreement.

Soon, he arranged a teleportation array for them, beaming with satisfaction as the teleportation light flickered and vanished, then departed contentedly.

…

Three months later!

Four figures appeared at the former location of Linggu Mountain, gazing at the throngs of people and the sky choked with dark clouds, sighing in awe.

In Lu Yaoyao and Li Daoxuan’s eyes, Zhou Qing and Second Uncle had jointly slain the Peng Emperor—but Yan Xiaohu, as the eyewitness, knew clearly that Zhou Qing had done it alone.

He blamed himself for his greed, for insisting on going to the Beimang Mine—who could have imagined a wounded Zhanling cultivator was healing there?

“During the time my brother and I were away, we heard rumors from the border that the Peng Emperor hadn’t perished. Which version is true, which false?”

Li Daoxuan lowered his voice and asked Zhou Qing.

Yan Xiaohu grew anxious. “What? You think Brother is lying to you? Back then, that Peng Emperor—”

“Cough—” Zhou Qing cleared his throat sharply, his gaze sweeping the surroundings with sharp alertness.

Zhanling cultivators were already rare across the entire Level-Four spiritual nation; now that one had perished here, it drew people from all eight commanderies and seventy-two prefectures.

How many fully-reached Soul Transformation elders lurked among them?

If anyone overheard, trouble would follow.

Only then did Yan Xiaohu realize his mistake—he clapped a hand over his mouth, trembling with fear. He had only wanted to defend Zhou Qing, to prevent anyone from doubting his fourth brother.

Li Daoxuan also realized his question had been ill-placed; he quickly offered Zhou Qing an apologetic look.

Zhou Qing merely shook his head slightly; they were still on the outskirts, so nothing should be amiss.

As for his impersonation of the Peng Emperor on the border, he had already assured Xuan Yuan Shuo he would tell no one.

After all, it concerned this Prince’s upcoming plans.

Beside them, Lu Yaoyao quietly spoke. “I believe him.”

Not only had she witnessed the blood curse aura left by the Peng Emperor on her father’s body—even without that, she believed every word Zhou Qing said.

Seeing the absolute trust in his little sixth sister’s eyes, Li Daoxuan sighed.

We’re the real senior brother and sister—you’re favoring him far too obviously.

“Look over there—are those the tomb guardians?”

At that moment, Yan Xiaohu pointed toward several figures suddenly climbing up from a vast abyss, his eyes filled with curiosity.

The group immediately leapt onto their swords, striving to see more clearly.

Sure enough, the cliff walls of the massive abyss were now crawling with hundreds—no, thousands—of figures, all four limbs gripping the rock.

They wore long, matted hair, their faces twisted and grotesque, skin a sickly gray-black.

Their eye sockets were sunken, crisscrossed with blood vessels, radiating a hollow emptiness—as if their souls had been stripped away.

Their mouths gaped wide, revealing yellowed teeth, roaring like beasts at the onlookers around them.

Seeing this, the crowd frowned slightly.

When a Zhanling cultivator perishes, the surrounding region is shrouded in dense negative emotions for at least several centuries, and sunlight never reaches it.

Those with weak wills who draw near are consumed by the lingering resentments the Zhanling cultivator once severed, becoming mindless “tomb guardians,” eternally guarding the site.

The explosion of two Zhanling cultivators had caused Linggu Mountain to collapse entirely; this abyss stretched boundlessly, its depths pitch-black and terrifying.

These tomb guardians were merely what could be seen on the outskirts—no one knew what horrors lay within the core zone.

Rumors claimed these guardians could devour one another to evolve.

“All because of greed!” Li Daoxuan sighed heavily, watching groups of prepared cultivators around them form teams and vanish into the abyss’s depths.

Zhou Qing strongly agreed.

But we cultivators walk the path of defying heaven and altering fate—danger and opportunity are born together.

Everyone hopes to gamble on a chance at earth-shattering fortune.

“It’s Jin Leizong—Lei Luo is here too!” At that moment, Yan Xiaohu glanced casually toward the distance and instantly recognized a figure, exclaiming in surprise.

But when he saw Lei Lie among Jin Leizong’s group, his face darkened; he snorted coldly, filled with revulsion.

Last time he and his fourth brother returned, they were ambushed halfway by Du Kui and a Soul Transformation cultivator from a foreign realm—he still trembled at the memory.

His fourth brother had even quit drinking.

On their return, while talking with him, his fourth brother revealed the truth behind Luo Xue’s death at Linggu Mountain.

Besides Du Kui’s deliberate retreat, Lei Lie of Jin Leizong and Zhu He of Qingyu Immortal Sect had been hiding nearby.

They had watched as Luo Xue was brutally murdered by Sima Yaoji.

All of it, simply to weaken Taiqingmen, their strongest ally.

“And Zhu He!” Li Daoxuan’s face darkened, his eyes glinting with cold fury.

To make them see these people’s true hearts, Yan Xiaohu had drunkenly spilled everything during their gathering.

But when he mentioned Du Kui of Jinyang Peak, Zhou Qing had grabbed his arm.

Afterwards, Zhou Qing told him Du Kui had been unlucky—killed by a Soul Transformation cultivator named Lin Jin who stole his belongings.

But regardless of the truth, since the end of the Five Sects War, their former alliance had shattered; the days of fighting side by side were gone, replaced now by hidden agendas.

Zhou Qing followed Li Daoxuan’s gaze and spotted Zhu He, the first disciple of the Profound Dark Immortal, among Qingyu Immortal Sect’s ranks.

She wore a pale green cloud-patterned robe, her skin fair, her expression calm, and three differently colored long swords strapped to her back as she stood silently.

Last time he and Third Brother returned, Lei Luo and Yuan Ya had rushed over immediately upon hearing the news.

They had said they left to refine their own spiritual realms.

Now, years had passed; it seemed they had both entered Soul Transformation.

“It’s Second Brother!”

Lu Yaoyao stood on tiptoe, scanning the sea of people, and soon spotted Taiqingmen’s encampment.

There, Second Brother He Han was instructing Taiqingmen disciples, his every gesture radiating calm competence.

“Let’s go!” Seeing the familiar figure, Li Daoxuan’s gloom vanished; he immediately soared toward Taiqingmen’s camp on his sword.

The group hurried after him.

He Han, sensing their presence, turned his head and saw Li Daoxuan and the others approaching; after a brief pause, his face lit up with joy.

“Senior Brother, Little Sixth, Fourth Brother, Yan Brother—how did you return?” He Han rushed forward and embraced Li Daoxuan tightly.

The other Taiqingmen disciples, upon seeing them, also burst into excitement.

Especially when they looked at Zhou Qing—pure awe and reverence filled their eyes.

During the Five Sects War, he alone had slain the five prodigies of Cangyan Dao Palace, turning the tide.

At the Battle of Canglan Mountain, he had foreseen the danger and extracted them from outside the formation in advance.

Since Sister Luo Lingling broke through to Soul Transformation, he had risen to the top of the Most Wanted List.

In their hearts, Zhou Qing was nothing short of a legend.

After landing, the disciples gathered around them, laughing and chatting.

During this, He Han unconsciously glanced at Zhou Qing—somehow, upon meeting again, he found him even more inscrutable than before.

For a moment, it felt as if he were facing a sect elder, stirring an inexplicable sense of reverence within him.

At this moment, the other four sects of the Eastern Region also noticed the change here, especially upon seeing Zhou Qing appear, they could not help but be surprised.

The Cangyan Dao Palace and Tianji Gate members even sneered.

Lei Lie and Zhu He also slightly furrowed their brows, but did not come over to greet him.

“What are you all doing here?” Li Daoxuan suddenly asked.

After all, when he returned to the sect alone last time, everything had been fine—why were so many disciples gathered here now?

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(End of Chapter)