Chapter 415: Where Have We Gone?

How should we deal with the current situation?

Gu Qingwan asked, "Our most important task is to find King Qi and our other companions."

Lu Yuan pondered for a moment, then said, "We can no longer go back; we can only first explore this ice plain."

"Perhaps we can find some clues."

Everyone nodded in agreement with Lu Yuan's suggestion.

Although they were worried about the safety of King Qi and the others, they could not leave here now.

In order to avoid exposing their identities and objectives, and to better cultivate, Lu Yuan proposed that they temporarily stay at the nearby Canghai Sect.

The Supreme Dao Ancestor's brows furrowed slightly; after a moment's thought he said, "Very well, we will first settle at the Canghai Sect for a while and find our own places of cultivation."

"I will contact the companions from the other branches to see if there is any news about King Qi and the others."

Everyone nodded in agreement, while Lu Yuan felt anxious inside.

They all understood that this operation would not be easy; they might face endless difficulties and challenges.

The crowd set off toward the Canghai Sect; the sight of the immortal vessel being activated was awe-inspiring.

The sea wind howled, whistling in their ears. Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan were sitting in a secret chamber, diligently practicing the immortal technique Heavenly Gang Big Dipper Formation.

They coordinated seamlessly, their body techniques swift and agile, each offense and defense linking tightly without gaps.

Lu Yuan's body technique was nimble and lively, as free and easy as flowing clouds and water.

He wielded the Heavenly Gang Thunder Fire Sword; as its blade flashed, it seemed able to tear through any obstacle.

Every strike and sword thrust carried a heart-shaking power, as if it could utterly crush the enemy.

Although Gu Qingwan's body technique was not as graceful as Lu Yuan's, thanks to her keen observation and flexible thinking she offered many precise and effective tactical suggestions.

She held the Ice Crystal Long Whip; as its cold light flickered, a chill spread everywhere.

"Lu Yuan, your stance is a little unsteady!" Gu Qingwan intently observed his posture.

"You should relax your waist and back slightly, and breathe naturally with rhythm."

Lu Yuan nodded slightly upon hearing this and quickly adjusted his body posture.

His movements and steps became more nimble; each attack grew steadier and stronger.

"Your martial skills are becoming more proficient."

Lu Yuan praised, "Your ice-element immortal arts have also become purer, sufficient to resist any fire attack."

Gu Qingwan smiled and nodded; she grasped the Cold Jade Ice Slice in her hand, feeling the endless chill contained within the Ice Crystal Long Whip.

"As long as we stand united, even if we encounter powerful foes, we can cope."

Lu Yuan nodded in agreement: "Yes, we must trust each other and work closely together."

They continued their cultivation, exchanging problems encountered in practice and suggestions for improving tactics.

They constantly adjusted their postures and steps, bringing the Heavenly Gang Big Dipper Formation to its fullest expression.

Lu Yuan's face bore a resolute look; he understood that only strength could safeguard his and Gu Qingwan's lives.

With each exchange of offense and defense, he felt himself growing stronger.

Gu Qingwan clenched her fists, eyes firm; she also realized that only great strength could protect those she loved.

Her tactical improvement suggestions were all the result of careful thought; she hoped that the refined tactics would better equip them to face future challenges.

In the course of their continued cultivation, Lu Yuan felt he had broken through a bottleneck; his body technique became more agile and accurate.

He and Gu Qingwan exchanged views on this breakthrough, endeavoring to deduce ever more precise and effective combat methods. Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan left the secret chamber, only to see the Canghai Sect Sect Master Qingmingzi standing before them.

Qingmingzi's brows were tightly knit, his eyes showing a hint of displeasure.

Seeing this, Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan felt uneasy, their faces showing tension.

Lu Yuan silently cautioned himself, understanding that the position of the Canghai Sect Sect Master was no trivial matter; his appearance here must carry deep significance.

Gu Qingwan also felt the pressure rise, unconsciously clenching her fist.

Qingmingzi stood tall and upright, his gaze full of dignity and solemnity.

He looked at Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan and spoke slowly: "Lu Yuan, Gu Qingwan, you have been practicing the Heavenly Gang Big Dipper Formation for some time."

The two bowed their heads in salute, their expressions solemn and respectful.

"Disciples Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan pay respects to the Sect Master," they said in unison.

Qingmingzi nodded, his tone solemn: "I have personally witnessed your cultivation of combat techniques and noticed the harmony of your cooperation."

"But I have also heard some rumors within the sect."

Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan's hearts tightened; they knew they were outsiders to the sect and unfamiliar with its internal affairs.

They exchanged a glance, secretly discussing how to answer.

Qingmingzi continued: "Although your cultivation strength is great, you still need to follow the sect's rules while within it."

"You must not act arbitrarily, nor harm the sect's interests for personal feelings."

Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan understood; indeed, it was because of their feelings for each other that some ripples had arisen.

Although they had reservations, they answered sincerely: "Master, please rest assured; we will certainly act cautiously and place the sect's interests first."

Qingmingzi nodded: "I hope you can exercise self-control and remain calm and rational at critical moments."

"Cultivating immortal arts is merely the first step toward becoming a true powerhouse; many difficulties and challenges await you on the path of advancement."

Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan voiced their promise in unison: "Master, rest assured; we understand."

Qingmingzi's stern expression eased somewhat: "Good, I hope you will seize the opportunity to cultivate and not disappoint the sect's expectations."

"Your cooperation has made great progress, but deeper collaboration is still needed."

Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan's hearts sank; they understood the deeper meaning of Qingmingzi's words: "Master, rest assured; we will cooperate even more closely and swiftly reach a higher realm."

Qingmingzi nodded satisfied: "Good, I believe you can do it."

"Now you may continue your cultivation."

After Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan performed a respectful salute, they turned and returned to the secret chamber.

They nodded at each other, their hearts filled with determination and confidence.

In the subsequent cultivation process, Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan exchanged the words that Qing Mingzi had just conveyed. On the Profound Ice Platform, Lu Yuan and Gu Qingwan had just defeated Qing Mingzi's disciple Lan Yu, demonstrating their formidable strength.

Both were covered in sweat, yet their faces glowed with pride and satisfaction.

They knew that this victory was not only an affirmation of their own strength, but also a contribution to the sect. (End of chapter)