From daylight to nighttime, from nighttime to daylight.
Over the course of three consecutive days, three men sat atop a mountain, each talking in depth about what they had learned. This discussion on philosophy was deeply enlightening for all of them.
Pei Xuanjing sat alone in his room, contemplating what he had gained from this discussion.
The Mire Sect has the same origins as the White Lotus Sect. Both claim to be the orthodox faith, though it is difficult to trace back to determine which is the original.
After thousands of years, today's Mire Sect is an amalgamation of doctrines from the Taoist School, the Buddhism School, the Mani Sect, and many other religious sects.
Therefore, the martial arts of the Mire Sect contain elements not only from Buddhism, but also from Taoism, Mani, and many other sects.
Zhao Baiyang's background is unknown. He later joined the Mire Sect, and his martial studies rank as some of the best in the realm.
Zhao Baiyang's martial arts put more emphasis on the true meaning. His mastery of True Qi and body cultivation are slightly inferior to Pei Xuanjing's.
However, when it comes to the philosophical essence of martial arts, Zhao Baiyang's understanding is unique and in no way inferior to that of Pei Xuanjing.
According to the three ways of cultivation categorised by Pei Xuanjing, Zhao Baiyang focuses on Refining Qi and Refining Spirit, with an emphasis on Refining Spirit.
Although Pei Xuanjing's understanding of the philosophical essence of martial arts is strong, this is all due to multiple simulations carried out by himself. As for cultivation, he is not particularly proficient.
Moreover, the knowledge relayed by Zhao Baiyang explains precisely what Pei Xuanjing lacks, clearing his misunderstandings and reinforcing his confidence in the Path of Spirit Refinement that he identified.
As the prevailing figure from Dragon Tiger Mountain and leader of the Zhengyi Dao, he focuses on Refining Qi and Talismanic Skill.
Talismanic Skill, as a fundamental technique in the Taoist school, is something Pei Xuanjing undoubtedly knows.
According to the elder of Dragon Tiger Mountain, all disciples, upon reaching the Third-grade Realm, choose to take in a talisman.
Taking in a talisman involves cultivating a talisman seed within the body, treating it as one's primary talisman, and nurturing its growth through continuous infusions of True Qi.
The Doctrine of Talismans!
Upon hearing this, Pei Xuanjing had a sense of enlightenment. The Doctrine of Talismans and the cultivation method of becoming an immortal were surprisingly similar.
"Viewed in this light, the Doctrine of Talismans should be considered a distinct cultivation path, different from the Essence-Qi-Spirit path I have theorised," Pei Xuanjing thought to himself.
While he had deduced the three paths of Essence, Qi, and Spirit, he certainly didn't arrogantly presume there could only be these three cultivation routes.
In Taoism, there are a plethora of cultivation methods. Even those from the same lineage may evolve into different paths of cultivation over time.
This Doctrine of Talismans stands as one of the major paths of the Taoist school, on the equal footing with the Golden Core Dao, and undoubtedly possesses profound mysteries.
The Orthodox Dragon and Tiger Lineage is, after all, a significant branch for Talismanic cultivation, practising Refining Qi and Talismanic Skill concurrently.
Refining Qi, Talismanic Skill, combined with the elder's physical cultivation method, they can be said to practice simultaneous cultivation of the three nnth•
It was precisely because of this that Pei Xuanjing solved his doubts. The reason the elder hadn't made a breakthrough in his simulated life was not that he couldn't but that he wanted to progress on all three paths at the same time.
Through this discussion, Pei Xuanjing greatly benefited from the two individuals.
Of course, the three paths of Essence, Qi, and Spirit that he proposed also proved incredibly beneficial to the other two, clearing many of their doubts.
Even though the three of them have their understandings and views, there are inevitably conflicting and contradictory points. But more often, they seek commonality within difference and explore the Great Tao together.
As for now, the way of cultivation has been severed since the Tang Dynasty.
The original secret scriptures disappeared as though they had never existed.
As people came later, no one could guarantee their path was correct. Every one of them was a trailblazer, fighting their way through the vast wilderness of cultivation and advancing painstakingly.
The future path of cultivation needs to be executed step by step. Only by truly moving forward can one understand the difficulties and doubts met with each step.
The insights and personal philosophies learned from the two individuals during this discussion will make Pei Xuanjing's cultivation more robust, allowing him to find and fix deficiencies and strengthen his foundation.
Besides, because of this discussion, these two top-level experts generously shared their cultivation insights. For the simulator, it was an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Taoyun.
In just three days, Pei Xuanjing's Taoyun had increased by over thirty thousand, putting him not too far from initiating his next life simulation.
Pei Xuanjing steadied his breath, discarded stray thoughts, held the Original Qi, and concentrated his mind.
In his mind, he recalled the words that Zhao Baiyang had said to him before leaving: "Zhao came here today not only for a discussion with Brother Pei but also to give you a message. The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu is rallying various experts to encircle and kill you."
After the contest between Pei Xuanjing and the elder had ended, Zhao Baiyang should have left.
After all, now that the Emperor is dead and several months have passed since the incident, he should be considering how the Mire Sect should proceed. Whether that means cleaning up other branches of the White Lotus Sect and acquiring the remaining fragments of scriptures or other business, he needs to get busy.
But upon learning that the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu was rallying troops against Pei Xuanjing, Zhao Baiyang, despite declining the Ghost Emperor's proposal, decided to warn Pei Xuanjing.
Although Pei Xuanjing had already foreseen in his life simulation that the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu would make a move on him, he did not expect that the Ghost Emperor would not only face him alone but also rally other experts against him..
Therefore, he still expressed his gratitude to Zhao Baiyang, vowing that he would be on high alert.
"I didn't expect the Fengdu Ghost Emperor to be so relentless in wanting to kill me!" Pei Xuanjing muttered to himself.
What he did not know was that the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu now regarded him as a mortal enemy, viewing Pei Xuanjing's existence as crucial to the survival or demise of the nether realm.
Even if Pei Xuanjing's power was invincible, the more potent he was, the more the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu wanted to kill him, daring not to let him continue growing.
Looking at the Shenxiao Sword, which lay broken in two on the table, he thought to himself: "It seems that I need to find a great craftsman to forge a new divine weapon."
The breaking of the Shenxiao Sword, which had been with him for many years, also meant that the Thousand-Refined Divine Weapon could no longer bring out his full power.
Perhaps it was time to find a grandmaster craftsman who could forge a Ten Thousand-Forged grade divine weapon.
But easier said than done, Ten Thousand-Forged divine weapons are rare in the world, each one being the treasures of top-class major powers.
Even for Dragon Tiger Mountain, they only have the pair of Three and Five Male and Female Sin Slashing Swords.
To make a Ten Thousand-Forged divine weapon, it not only requires rare materials but also the craftsmanship of a great master to be successful.
Let alone the difficulties to collect these rare materials, among the countless craftsmen in the world, those that can be called great masters probably do not exceed ten.
Getting any one of these great masters to work for you would not be easy.
"Is the master out of isolation? Disciple Pang Hong seeks an audience." The voice of Pang Hong came from outside the door.
Pei Xuanjing put a stop to his thoughts and said calmly towards the door,
"Come in."
Accompanied by a creaking sound, the door of the room was pushed open, and Pang Hong, dressed in a martial artist's clothes, walked in.
"I pay my respects to Master!" Pang Hong respectfully bowed to Pei Xuanjing.
The current Pang Hong was no longer the skinny boy of the past, with his sturdy and lean body, bright eyes, and a compelling aura.
A smile surfaced on Pei Xuanjing's face: "You performed very well this time." He had already learned from Yu Zhenzi about Pang Hong's performance that day and was very pleased.
Pang Hong shook his head humbly: "I was just doing my duty!"
If it hadn't been for meeting Pei Xuanjing, he would still be the same lowly servant, living a life of hardship. Where would he have come today?
For him, Pei Xuanjing was both a teacher and a father, the most important person in his life, worthy of protecting with his life.
Pei Xuanjing chuckled, more pleased with this disciple.
"Since you performed well, there should be a reward." While speaking, he reached out to grab the Shenxiao sword that was previously placed far away. The sword hummed and fell into his hand. He handed it to Pang Hong, "This
Shenxiao sword will be with you from now on. Reflect on it carefully."
Though the Shenxiao sword was now broken into two pieces, it still holds immense power. However, its most significant value doesn't lie in this power.
After all, with Pei Xuanjing's fortune, it wouldn't have to come to a point where he couldn't even give his only disciple a Thousand-Refined divine weapon.
It should be known that during the confrontation with the old Heavenly Master, the Shenxiao sword not only carried Pei Xuanjing's enlightenment of cultivation but also bore a lot of the old Heavenly Master's learning spirit.
Therefore, the current Shenxiao sword, like the fragments of sword marks on the martial arts practice field at Dragon Tiger Mountain that many people competed for, can inspire a martial artist's comprehension of martial arts realized by Pei Xuanjing and the old Heavenly Master.
comparing merely tnelr values, even ten •rnousana Kennement divine weapons couldn't compare to this Shenxiao sword. If it had gotten on to the street, it would undoubtedly have caused a scramble among countless people. Even the powerful Zhao Baiyang may not be able to resist the temptation.
As for Pang Hong, having this broken sword by his side can not only use the sword intent on it for self-defence but also comprehend the sword intent at all times. This was extremely beneficial for him to comprehend the true meaning of martial arts and step into the third-grade Wuzong grandmaster realm in the future.
"Thank you, Master!" Pang Hong was overjoyed. He knew the value of this broken sword, so he hastily expressed his gratitude.
Pei Xuanjing handed over the hilt, "Here, try picking it up."
He only gave him the hilt and kept the other part of the body of the sword, which was about one foot long and had the sharp tip, hidden in his sleeve.
It's not that Pei Xuanjing was reluctant, but given Pang Hong's current strength, even subduing this part of the hilt poses quite a challenge, let alone the extremely powerful other part.
With Pei Xuanjing's help, although Pang Hong seemed to struggle somewhat, he eventually subdued the sword intent of the hilt and stored it in the sheath.
He found a piece of grey cloth to wrap it, then hung it on his back. He made up his mind to keep it next to him even when he slept.
Watching Pang Hong, who was sweating from his forehead but had a resolute expression on his face, his lips curved into a smile, "Did you come here because you had something to tell me?"
Pang Hong then proceeded to speak, "Senior Yu Zhenzi asked me to invite you, saying that she has scheduled a meeting today with Senior Yuyangzi from Dragon Tiger Mountain and Senior Qingyangzi from True Martial Sect, they need you to attend."
"Hmm, I got it." Pei Xuanjing nodded, understanding why Yu Zhenzi sent Pang
Hong. He told Pang Hong, "You lead the way and follow me over there!"
'Yes."
The two exited the room and, following the corridor, passed through several towers and pavilions until they arrived in front of a certain building.
Pei Xuanjing led Pang Hong into the building, where they saw Yu Zhenzi, Yu Yangzi, and Qingyang Zi seated. Upon seeing Pei Xuanjing's arrival, they immediately stood up to greet him.
"Greetings, Grandmaster Pei."
"Grandmaster! "
"Longevity! "
The three of them had different ways of addressing him, which also represented their different relationships with Pei Xuanjing..
Pei Xuanjing reciprocated each one's greeting with amusement, addressing Yu Yangzi and Yu Zhenzi as Taoist friends, while still referring to Master Qingxu as superior.
Qingxu Taoist had an irremovable smile on his face, delighted that Pei Xuanjing remained respectful towards him despite his status.
Once again, everyone took their seats. Pang Hong, having greeted everyone, started to leave, but Pei Xuanjing stopped him. "You should stay. Sit here and listen, learn something new." Pang Hong calmly nodded and sat in the last position.
Each of the three others in the loft wore different expressions.
Knowing full well about Xuanjing's plan to nurture Pang Hong, Yu Zhenzi was not surprised and found it quite commonplace.
Qingyang Zi sighed inwardly, conceding that Pang Hong was indeed exceptionally fortunate.
In the world of martial arts, countless contemporaries surpassed Pang Hong in aptitude, yet few had reached the Fifth Rank at his age.
It must be said that life is unpredictable. Having become Xuanjing's disciple gives Pang Hong a clear advantage over many.
Yu Yangzi paid more attention to Pang Hong.
Looking at how Pang Hong initially referred to himself, it was thought he was merely a nominal disciple of Xuanjing. Though he was the only one, he still wasn't an actual disciple.
As it appears now, Xuanjing seems to be grooming him as his successor, which is a stark departure from his former status.
Given Xuanjing's current position as one of the top martial artists, backed by followers like Yu Zhenzi, and his future prospects of rebuilding the Shenxiao Sect, he is undoubtedly a major force in the martial world.
Becoming the heir of such a powerful force, even without considering strength, in terms of status, he would not be much different from him.
Pei Xuanjing noticed everyone's expressions, but he offered no explanation because this had been his intention.
As his power grows, having allied with Yu Zhenzi and others, along with the affairs planned with Bai Xiaosheng, his workload is becoming heavier and more complex by the day.
Not that he couldn't handle these matters, but for Xuanjing, most of these are wastes of time that would delay his cultivation.
Therefore, grooming Pang Hong to serve as his spokesman was an excellent solution. It avails him more time for cultivation while offering Pang Hong the opportunity to refine himself. A win-win situation.
In a world where power benefits oneself, as long as Xuanjing maintains his formidable strength, he need not worry about being manipulated and can provide solid support for Pang Hong.
Pei Xuanjing turned to Yu Zhenzi beside him and asked, "How did your discussion go?"
This tripartite gathering was not a coincidence, but a prearranged agreement.
Pulling in Dragon Tiger Mountain into their plan, which was conceived by Xuanjing and Bai Xiaosheng, was part of the scheme.
There are innumerable Taoist factions today, but the recognized powerhouses mainly include the True Martial Sect, Dragon Tiger Mountain, Chunyang Sect, and Baiyun Temple, with Zhenwu and Dragon Tiger standing out as the most powerful.
It's safe to say, if they can convince Dragon Tiger Mountain to ally with the True Martial Sect, they essentially control half of the Taoist community.
With the backing of this alliance, whether to execute the plan directly or involve other Taoist powerhouses, they have the flexibility to move forward or defend, and room for maneuver.
Originally, Bai Xiaosheng, as a partner in the plan, was supposed to participate in it.
However, considering that the True Martial Sect, Dragon Tiger Mountain, and the Shenxiao Sect that Xuanjing represents are all Taoist factions, he felt it inappropriate to participate and hence, decided not to attend.
Upon Xuanjing's question, Yu Zhenzi sorted out his thoughts and pointed out the argument in their discussion, "Taoist friend Yu Yangzi wishes us to invite members of Baiyun Temple and Chunyang Sect now." Invite Baiyun Temple and Chunyang Sect now?
Pei Xuanjing slightly knitted his brows.
The plan of involving Dragon Tiger Mountain was tacitly agreed upon when Xuanjing fought with the old Celestial Master.
In a world where power returns to oneself, the will of Xuanjing and the Old Celestial Master determines their behind-the-scenes power dynamics.
Therefore, there was no need for Xuanjing to negotiate personally. The will of their respective forces is represented by Yu Zhenzi, Yu Yangzi, and Qingyang Zi. They only were deliberating the details of cooperation. As long as the final result did not deviate too much, there would be no significant objections.
When Pang Hong invited Xuanjing, Xuanj ing already sensed that the three-party discussion had hit a roadblock. Otherwise, Yu Zhenzi would not disturb him.
For this reason, Xuanjing asked Yu Zhenzi upon sitting down.
However, Yu Zhenzi's response made Xuanjing frown slightly.
At this point in the plan, inviting someone to join is far from being simplified. Every time a new force is added, it means the original three forces have to yield more interests. After all, no faction would join without gaining.
Xuanjing glanced at Qingyang Zi, who was also troubled. He then asked Yu
Yangzi, "Head Yu Yangzi, may I know the reason?"
He needed to know why the other party was doing this. Only by understanding the actual reason can there be a solution, whether to agree or disagree.
Yu Yangzi knew his response, and replied seriously, "Nothing more than a guarantee to avoid being used and discarded after the purpose is served!" To avoid being used and discarded!
This barefaced statement undoubtedly expressed distrust towards them.
Upon hearing this statement, the expressions of Xuanjing and others changed slightly.
Qingyang Zi turned pale and asked coldly, "Do you distrust us, Taoist friend?"
Yu Yangzi shook his head, "In my personal opinion, each of your characters can be trusted. But there are more than thousands of disciples in Dragon Tiger Mountain, and we cannot simply risk their future."
Yu Yangzi clearly understood that the matter they were discussing held great potential rewards, but it also posed enormous risk.
As a disciple of the old Celestial Master of Dragon Tiger Mountain and the successor of the next Celestial Master, he is not alone. He is also responsible for the lives of thousands of disciples of Dragon Tiger Mountain and cannot so easily agree.
"But the old Celestial Master has given his approval to this matter. Are you going to defy his will?" Yu Zhenzi could not help but speak out..