[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-the-star-martial-era":3,"chapter-the-star-martial-era-the-star-martial-era-chapter-138":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","The Star Martial Era",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2274996,4448,"Chapter 138: Exterminate His Entire Family and the Dilemma of Lao Qi (Request Subscription)","the-star-martial-era-chapter-138",138,"\u003Cp>The autumn examination realm of the Chen Guo Dao Academy has changed its scenery.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao sat alone on the high dais.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Below the dais were two rows of seats, already occupied by many; the senior leaders of the Chen Guo Dao Academy had all arrived, including Chancellor Dong Zhao and Ning Yuchan, who had only met Xu Jin not long ago.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your Majesty, all relevant personnel are now present,” said Chief Instructor Yu Da, as the last Vice Academician arrived.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao rose instantly, his gaze sweeping over the Academy Supervisor, the Left and Right Sacrificial Officers, the Four Academicians, the Twelve Vice Academicians, Dong Zhao, Ning Yuchan, Yu Da, and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only these people knew that Xu Jin was trapped in the Huoxuan Star Region.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Cheng Yuexiao knew well that this matter had already spread far and wide.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The rebellion of the Chilin Tribe in the Huoxuan Star Region caused a surge in second-rank material prices—not just within Chen Guo, but beyond its borders as well—and this was no longer a secret.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The disappearance of the True Disciple Xu Jin was also no secret.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet over ninety percent believed Xu Jin would die in the Huoxuan Star Region, including most of the Academicians and Vice Academicians present.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Therefore, if Xu Jin returned alive without any official handling, it would immediately become explosive news.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This matter could not be suppressed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But regardless, Xu Jin still needed protection.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This time, Xu Jin did not merely quell the rebellion in the Huoxuan Star Region—he destroyed a grand scheme that certain people had prepared for years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I have gathered you all to inform you of one thing: the Huoxuan Star Region has been pacified.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao spoke, it was like thunder splitting the sky, stirring up waves upon waves.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many senior leaders of the Chen Guo Dao Academy stared in shock; one of the Four Academicians, Kou Jing, rose immediately and asked, “Your Majesty, who pacified the Huoxuan Star Region, how was it done, and when?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Others erupted into murmurs; several quick-witted individuals had already sent messages outward via the Zhaixing Token.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Pacified just today.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The primary merit for pacifying the Huoxuan Star Region belongs to the True Disciple Xu Jin, who was previously trapped there.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“The details of the pacification will be formally reported to the imperial court later; today, I will mention a few points.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Jinshan Dao Academy has cultivated an excellent disciple—bold and strategic. Alone, trapped in a desperate realm, he killed Chi You, the Chilin Lord causing chaos in the Huoxuan Star Region, and with the aid of my Divine Soul Avatar, slew over ten late-stage Star Refining opponents, dozens of mid- and early-stage Star Refining rebel officers, installed a puppet new king, and regained control of the Huoxuan Star Region,” said Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He added, “Of course, I paid a heavy price—my Divine Soul Avatar left in the Huoxuan Star Region was destroyed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If Xu Jin were here, he would be utterly stunned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This Grand Master lied without a shred of guilt, weaving one elaborate falsehood after another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon hearing this, the stunned senior leaders of the Dao Academy all relaxed visibly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If Xu Jin had single-handedly pacified the Huoxuan Star Region after being trapped, it would be terrifying—like the Grand Master himself reappearing over twenty years ago.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He would be the supreme genius of Chen Guo once every hundred years; if he grew safely, he would surely become one of the nation’s greatest figures.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But since the Grand Master aided in the pacification, and his Avatar was destroyed, it must have contributed immensely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under these circumstances, Xu Jin’s value or talent must be downgraded—he is no longer as desirable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But only slightly less desirable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His top ranking in the autumn examination, especially first on the Ascension Stair, was a genuine achievement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His Star Casting result is still unknown, but a top-grade Star Casting is certainly guaranteed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Combined with his pacification of the Huoxuan Star Region, this could even offset his humble origins.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instantly, many Academicians and Vice Academicians began calculating whether to take Xu Jin as their disciple—and how to outmaneuver the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your Majesty, since the Huoxuan Star Region has been pacified, who now holds its safety and control?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Or rather, who currently governs the Huoxuan Star Region?” asked Academician Kou Jing again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At these words, the entire examination realm fell utterly silent—this was the most critical, core question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The interests involved were immense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The wealth gained from mastering a star region was merely a portion; the deeper, true stakes were what everyone truly valued.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Xu Jin pacified it; the new king naturally falls under Xu Jin’s control, and the Chilin Heart of the Huoxuan Star Region is naturally refined and controlled by Xu Jin,” said Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This could not be concealed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because many future actions require Xu Jin’s cooperation as the controller.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instantly, a storm erupted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Voices of all kinds arose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Isn’t this too dangerous?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If someone kills Xu Jin, won’t we lose the Huoxuan Star Region again?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I fear Xu Jin cannot hold it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Is it not a waste to entrust a second-rank star region to a Star Casting cultivator?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Various doubts rose and fell, especially from those senior leaders who had previously organized troops to re-suppress the Huoxuan Star Region—they voiced the strongest objections.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao tapped his fingers lightly on the table. “Over twenty years ago, I was also a Star Casting cultivator—I refined and controlled the Huoxuan Star Region myself!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If I could, Xu Jin can!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This merit was earned under desperate, certain-death conditions—killing enemies and quelling rebellion!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“This merit was earned by sacrificing oneself for the nation, dying to slay foes!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Granting this merit to Xu Jin is the foundation of Chen Guo, the bedrock of our Chen Guo Dao Academy!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Unless Xu Jin voluntarily passes it on to another, or some unforeseen event occurs, the Huoxuan Star Region belongs to him forever!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Any member of the Chen Guo Dao Academy who dares to plot against Xu Jin—I will personally purge them from our ranks. Do you all understand?” Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao said softly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instantly, the entire autumn examination realm fell silent again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Power—Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao’s authority over the Dao Academy stemmed not only from his lineage but from his strength.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over twenty years ago, he was already a rising star!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not to mention now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“We humbly obey Your Majesty’s command!” The senior leaders of the Chen Guo Dao Academy, though reluctant, spoke with complex expressions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With the Grand Master defending Xu Jin’s control of the Huoxuan Star Region, there was nothing more to be done.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What a pity—this boundless fortune had fallen into the hands of this obscure little brat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your Majesty, I must say one thing,” said Supervisor Chen Liao suddenly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Speak.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your Majesty, our Dao Academy stands united, but once this news spreads, the imperial court may…” said Supervisor Chen Liao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“No concern.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao waved his hand, stroking his long hair softly. “When I present the merits, I will speak for myself. Whoever in or out of the court dares to harm Xu Jin, pressure him—whether they succeed or not—I will personally come and exterminate their entire family.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice was quiet, but brimming with lethal intent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All senior leaders of the Chen Guo Dao Academy grew solemn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This warning from the Grand Master was thick with murderous intent!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some even began to wonder: was the Grand Master planning to take Xu Jin as his disciple?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Or was there some other connection?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A secret son?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Various speculations arose.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But some understood the Grand Master.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was protecting the very foundation of the Chen Guo Dao Academy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If such monumental merit, earned through life-and-death sacrifice, could be easily stolen, the people of Chen Guo would lose all faith.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Would any disciple ever again risk his life for the Chen Guo Dao Academy?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Would anyone still fight for Chen Guo?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“That concludes today’s meeting. Until I present the merits at court, no one is to leak this information. Violators will be punished under academy rules.” As he spoke the final words, Grand Master Cheng Yuexiao fixed his gaze on Supervisor Chen Liao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Your servant obeys,” said Supervisor Chen Liao, rising and bowing, his gaze cold as he swept over the senior leaders, issuing a clear warning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only then did Dong Zhao and Ning Yuchan exhale in relief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With the Grand Master’s arrangement, Xu Jin’s situation was no longer so perilous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once Xu Jin’s cultivation advanced rapidly and he broke through to late-stage Star Refining, the danger would fade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Silly girl, why are you crying? I’m right here, safe and sound!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Stop crying—you’re all tear-streaked like a spotted cat.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back home, Jiang Er, Xu Jin’s younger sister, rushed forward and clung to him, weeping uncontrollably.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Look at this foolish girl—your brother was taken by the Dao Academy’s teachers for advanced training. It’s a good thing! Why are you crying?” After a long while, Xu Jin’s clothes were soaked, and his father Xu Dajiang could no longer bear it—he came over to comfort Jiang Er.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I just missed my brother,” Jiang Er wiped her tears, still trembling with lingering fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Mingji Star Pattern sensed Jiang Er’s emotions were dominated by fear and worry; Xu Dajiang’s emotions, however, remained stable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin understood: Ning Yuchan’s story had fooled his father Xu Dajiang, but not Jiang Er.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jiang Er had always been sharp-witted; now that she was involved in cultivation, having her own thoughts was natural.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother, I’ll boil water for your bath, get you fresh clothes, and cook you something delicious.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jiang Er’s reminder made Xu Jin sniff himself—he really did stink.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Go wash up and change! You reek!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Then why did you hug me and cry so long just now?” Xu Jin teased.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Hmph!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Counting from August 8, when Xu Jin entered the Huoxuan Star Region, to today, August 20, he had been gone for thirteen days.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After bathing, changing into new clothes, and eating a big meal made by Jiang Er, Xu Jin returned to his room, checked that the Star-Picking Token had no messages, placed the two newly acquired Soul-Refining Golden Cores inside the Star Lamp to nurture, then collapsed into sleep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had slept in the Huoxuan Star Region before, and after refining the Crimson Scale Heart, he’d felt something like home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But it could not compare to a real home.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That deep-seated sense of safety relaxed every one of Xu Jin’s 480 million pores; the fatigue accumulated from battle surged into his heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He slept for a full eight hours.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When he woke, his Mingji Star Pattern sensed Ning Yuchan’s presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She was sitting cross-legged on the roof nearby.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She must have guarded him all night.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Xu Jin awake, Ning Yuchan quickly left, but not before sending him a Starlight Message: “Xu Jin, rest at home this morning; come to the Dao Academy this afternoon to meet the Headmaster—there’s urgent business.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“If danger arises, send me an urgent signal—I’ll arrive within three to five breaths.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ning Yuchan still thought Xu Jin didn’t know she’d just left; this Starlight Message was deliberately sent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin naturally wouldn’t expose her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ning Yuchan’s many kindnesses were already etched into Xu Jin’s heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Previously, when he took the Soul-Refining Golden Cores from Ning Yuchan, it was truly to help her within his own capacity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin had weighed this matter carefully yesterday.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At first, his thought was to lie low—to offer no help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The secret of the Can Dou Platform must be guarded to the death; no one must ever learn of it, no one must detect any anomaly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the four words Ning Yuchan spoke to the Grand Master made Xu Jin’s heart tremble!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Even if I die, I have no regrets!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those four words were terrifying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They meant the task Ning Yuchan intended to undertake—or the place she intended to go—was extremely dangerous, with a high probability of death.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that moment, Xu Jin asked himself a question: If Ning Yuchan died in battle, would he regret it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Would he regret his decision to guard the secret and refuse to help her?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The answer was yes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He would regret it until death.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some things, once they happen, make regret useless—no matter how much you wish otherwise. In his past life, Xu Jin had experienced this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the saying goes: When flowers bloom, pluck them while you may; don’t wait until they’re gone and grasp only empty branches.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And as another says: Beneath the sorrowful bridge, spring waters turn green—once they reflected the fleeting shadow of a swan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The tree wishes stillness, but the wind won’t cease; the child wishes to care for his parents, but they are no longer there.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All are profound regrets—only regretting that one didn’t act then.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Therefore, yesterday Xu Jin made his decision: he must help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he must help within the bounds of safety.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If these Soul-Refining Golden Cores are nurtured in the Can Dou Platform to threefold refinement, their efficacy will be six times that of ordinary Soul-Refining Golden Cores.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If Ning Yuchan takes one, it’s equivalent to taking six.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She will surely forge her Spirit Star.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She will surely greatly increase her strength, combat power, and survivability—and even aid her cultivation breakthrough.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for safety, Xu Jin believed that with a careful warning, Ning Yuchan wouldn’t speak carelessly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The risk was extremely low.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since the danger could be contained within an extremely narrow scope and yet greatly aid Ning Yuchan, he must help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just for five words—no future regrets!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over breakfast, Jiang Er chattered for nearly an hour, most of it praising Ning Yuchan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She said that since Xu Jin left, Ning Yuchan came every night to warm-nurture Jiang Er’s Middle Star Palace, then slept with her, leaving only at dawn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She also arrived early during the day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sometimes she even brought along Dao Academy Star-Patrol disciples, drawing intense attention from neighbors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin understood: Ning Yuchan was protecting Jiang Er and his father in this way.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially in the worst-case scenario.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After listening to Jiang Er’s babbling, Xu Jin returned to the back courtyard and finally found peace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His first task was to sort through his gains.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had collected over two hundred Star Cores from the Pí Náng; the Grand Master said he’d record them as Dao Merit, though he didn’t know how much Dao Merit that would amount to.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then came the Star Jade Tablets.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Can Dou Platform could hold Star Jade Tablets, but its capacity was limited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Currently, after filling the Can Dou Platform with the four-grade Star Jade Tablets needed for its next upgrade, Xu Jin still had forty-six fourth-grade Azure Jade Tablets remaining.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These forty-six fourth-grade Azure Jade Tablets would be Xu Jin’s most vital cultivation resource for the coming year, likely enabling rapid advancement in his cultivation base.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for third- and second-grade Star Jade Tablets, all had been fed into the Can Dou Platform and converted into Starlight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The total accumulated third-grade Starlight above the Can Dou Platform now reached three hundred and twenty threads.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though substantial, it still fell far short of the one thousand threads needed for the next upgrade—he must continue accumulating diligently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In addition, he had acquired one second-grade Star Weapon: the Fire-Scale Armor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Worth noting: after so many days in the Huoxuan Star Region, the Star Lamp’s nurturing effect on Star Weapons had finally manifested.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Nine days.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Nine days were enough to nurture a first-grade Star Weapon into a second-grade one.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But that was the limit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first-grade Star Weapon Xu Jin had tested in the Star Lamp, once nurtured to second-grade, showed no further change even after eight more days of nurturing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin estimated that the Star Lamp’s nurturing effect on Star Weapons could raise their grade by only one level—no more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was perfectly normal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Elixirs could be nurtured to triple refinement because their grade depended heavily on the energy contained within.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But a Star Weapon’s grade depended primarily on its material.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thus, one-grade enhancement through nurturing was the absolute limit for Star Weapons.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin had already placed the Fire-Scale Armor into the Star Lamp for nurturing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If he could raise it to third-grade, it would finally be usable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In addition, he had acquired two high-grade third-grade Fire Spirit Star Cores; when he had time, he must study carefully what protective Star Patterns these two high-grade third-grade Fire Spirit Cores provided.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He also had one Warm Dream Star Pattern, one fragment of a mysterious technique, and one second-grade Soul Pearl.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of these, the most valuable was undoubtedly the Warm Dream Star Pattern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if Headmaster Dong Zhao hadn’t reminded him, Xu Jin would likely have chosen the Warm Dream Star Pattern anyway.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The reason was simple: Old Qi had told Xu Jin much about Spirit Star Patterns.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He said that in the Lingji Star Palace’s legacy, later stages would include Spirit Defense and Spirit Attack Star Patterns; once Xu Jin’s cultivation reached the appropriate level, he could learn and engrave them early to enhance his survival.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially Spirit Attack Star Patterns were powerful tools for the weak to defeat the strong below fourth or fifth grade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since the Lingji Star Palace’s legacy contained such patterns, Xu Jin was almost certain he’d choose the unusually distinctive Warm Dream Star Pattern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His hesitation had come from another thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Old Qi hadn’t said what the Lingji Star Palace’s Spirit Attack Star Pattern was—would it be too conspicuous to use?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Spirit Attack Star Pattern obtained from the Grand Master, however, could be used freely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was what Xu Jin had hesitated over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Headmaster Dong Zhao’s advice had immediately resolved that doubt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thinking of this, Xu Jin took out the Lingji Star Palace legacy Jade Tablet left by Old Qi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the Canxia Realm, he couldn’t learn it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But now that he had reached the Forge-Star Realm, could he learn it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The next instant, Xu Jin once again tried to channel his Star Force into the Lingji Star Palace legacy Jade Tablet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The previously blocking Starlight did not appear; his Star Force flowed in unimpeded, and instantly, two Star Patterns appeared in his mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instantly, Xu Jin was speechless.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thank goodness he listened to Headmaster Dong Zhao—otherwise, he’d be utterly stunned!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon breaking through to the Forge-Star Realm, Old Qi had directly transmitted two Spirit Star Patterns to Xu Jin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One was the Zhen Yi Star Pattern, for Spirit Defense, as the Grand Master had mentioned; the other was the Po Sha Star Pattern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the Grand Master had said, these two Star Patterns were universal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No wonder Headmaster Dong Zhao had advised Xu Jin to choose the Warm Dream Star Pattern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It seemed that Zhen Yi and Po Sha Spirit Star Patterns were not hard to learn on the open market.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the two offensive and defensive Spirit Star Patterns left by Old Qi from the Lingji Star Palace were of extremely high grade.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Zhen Yi Star Pattern was sixth-grade middle; the Po Sha Star Pattern was sixth-grade lower!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After seeing so many Star Patterns, this was Xu Jin’s first encounter with a sixth-grade one.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This made him secretly relieved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Thank goodness he chose the Warm Dream Star Pattern.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If he had chosen the Grand Master’s Po Sha Star Pattern, its grade would certainly have been lower than that of the Lingji Star Palace’s.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soul essence is the specialty of the Star Palace of the Spirit Era; the star patterns have exceptionally high ranks, which is normal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the higher the rank of the star patterns, the greater the difficulty in learning them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, this poses no real challenge to Xu Jin, who possesses the Star Lamp Combat Technique.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially since only three star patterns have been inscribed on his Soul Star so far, leaving four empty slots—over the next few days, Xu Jin has plenty to do.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Afterwards, Xu Jin carefully studied the secret technique for a while.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Grand Master had already verified it; he could practice it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The technique not only recorded the cultivation method but also the usage of soul division.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There were two ways to use soul division: one was to create a body double, the other was to substitute death.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, Xu Jin’s gaze landed on the “substitute death” method, and he thought of Old Qi, who had fled for his life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“It’s been over ten days—Old Qi should still be alive, right? He must have shaken off Hu Xuechuan by now.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he pondered, Xu Jin couldn’t help but smile bitterly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He probably hadn’t shaken off Hu Xuechuan yet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Otherwise, Old Qi would have sent at least some message.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After thinking it over, Xu Jin sent Old Qi a Starlight Message.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Master, I’ve returned from the Huixuan Star Region—I’m reporting my results! I’ve forged three inches in the Central Star Palace, and three inches in the Lower Star Palace too!” To Old Qi, Xu Jin held nothing back—he told him the final result of his star forging.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To Xu Jin’s surprise, Old Qi replied instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Wahahaha! You little brat—you’re not just trying to give me a last burst of energy by lying to cheer me up, are you? Top-grade forging is only two and a half inches—you forged three and one-tenth? That’s definitely super-grade forging, a record-breaker!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At least I’ve never heard of it!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Master, if you think I’m lying, come back and see for yourself.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“You little rascal—you’re circling around the question! I’ll be straight with you: I won’t be able to return for a long time. In fact, I might have to fight Hu Xuechuan again soon!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Qi Shanye’s words weighed heavily on Xu Jin’s heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He hadn’t expected Old Qi’s situation to be this dangerous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“But Master, didn’t you say after your last fight you’d be able to shake off Hu Xuechuan?” Xu Jin pressed urgently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Bah, I underestimated how determined that old bastard was—he must have a high- or mid-grade rune capable of healing wounds! I inflicted heavy damage at great cost, thinking I’d gain three days to escape.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But in just one day, before my wounds had even healed, that old bastard caught up again!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And now, he’s been chasing me nonstop for half a month,” Qi Shanye said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Master, is there anything I can do to help?” Xu Jin asked anxiously.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Nothing you can do. Focus on your cultivation. If you achieve super-grade forging, and reach the late stage of Condensing Stars, you might actually have a chance to help me. Let fate decide whether I can hold on until then!” Qi Shanye said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Jin fell silent. “Master, if it’s convenient, could you tell me exactly where you are now?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Where I am? I’ve slipped into a major city with a huge population and hidden myself among hundreds of thousands of residents. Hu Xuechuan knows I’m in this city—but he can’t find me!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Searching for one person among hundreds of thousands—even with a rough location—is like looking for a needle in a haystack!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was perfectly secure—until Hu Xuechuan got official support!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now he’s blockading the city, sweeping through the population in batches, screening and searching them like sifting grain!” Qi Shanye said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“I estimate I’ll have to fight again in no more than two or three days!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Blockade? Master—is it still because the Star Locator locks onto your aura?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Of course! Otherwise, why would Hu Xuechuan risk severe injury just to protect that Star Locator? Without it, he couldn’t even catch a whiff of me!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, Xu Jin thought of the secret technique he had just acquired.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Could this soul division technique help Old Qi?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of Chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",3955,"2026-06-19T23:56:29.689Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","70f7c875fafba3f1277a945e0eea5374a47180d8871e7afa470f19cc13af40b2","the-star-martial-era-chapter-139","the-star-martial-era-chapter-137",1000,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fthe-star-martial-era-cover.jpg"]