I Shall Be Everlasting In the World of Immortals

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Chapter 349: Meeting Again

Several days later.

In Cloudsky City, the once-in-a-decade high-level auction had entered its latter half.

Within the auction hall, not only were there numerous Core Formation cultivators from major powers, but also the spiritual senses of Nascent Soul old monsters sweeping across the venue.

”One hundred thousand spirit stones!”

”Bitter Lotus Incense, a rare Nascent Soul heart tribulation spirit item. Any higher bids?”

”One hundred and ten thousand spirit stones!”

A clear and melodious female voice rang out from the VIP booth of the Yunxia Sect.

”Since Purple Mist Fairy is set on obtaining this Bitter Lotus Incense, this seat will do the right thing.”

A hoarse, deep male voice came from another VIP booth.

True Monarch Purple Mistʼs expression darkened slightly, and she let out a cold snort.

Bitter Lotus Incense was not among the highest-grade Nascent Soul spirit items; rather, it was a consumable item.

At this point, the auction price had already exceeded its usual value.

Fortunately, no one else placed a bid, allowing True Monarch Purple Mist to secure the Bitter Lotus Incense, a heart tribulation-related spirit item.

Inside the private booth, Lan Changʼan sat alongside Xuefeng Immortal, Jiang Haoyuan, and others.

Lan Changʼan pondered for a moment—compared to the Great Qing, the variety of Nascent Soul spirit items in Great Yuan was indeed greater.

However, the proportion of cultivators attempting the Nascent Soul breakthrough here was noticeably higher than in the Great Qing.

Infant Transformation Pills were extremely difficult to obtain. Even in Nascent Soul sects, most Core Formation cultivators—despite being true disciples—had no access to them.

If he couldn’t acquire an Infant Transformation Pill, he could still try to obtain other Nascent Soul spirit items.

Lacking the 20% success rate boost from the Infant Transformation Pill didn’t mean there was no hope at all.

Over the course of thousands, even tens of thousands of years, in the vastly larger Great Yuan, there had occasionally been cases where non-top-tier geniuses, without an Infant Transformation Pill, still managed to successfully form their Nascent Soul.

At this auction, Lan Changʼan had only bid on two items.

One was a supplementary ingredient for the Infant Transformation Pill, costing around ten to twenty thousand spirit stones, slightly above its usual price.

The other was a quasi-fourth-rank treasure material, intended as a material for refining the Exotic Spirit Peacock Puppet.

Given the presence of many Nascent Soul old monsters in the auction, using a puppet clone to bid might expose his identity, so Lan Changʼan exercised restraint.

Among the key resources for advancing to a transformation Demon King, only one appeared in this auction.

Unfortunately, it was a wood-attribute spirit item, which was incompatible with Earth Burrowing Rat, and was ultimately taken by True Monarch Red Serpent of Great Snake Mountain at a high premium.

It was said that in the southeastern coastal region of Great Yuan, resources for advancing to transformation Demon King were more abundant, but that area was largely controlled by the Sixteen Sea-Suppressing Sects.

”Senior Purple Mist, this is your auction item.”

Not long after, two Core Formation cultivators escorted a noblewoman in a palace dress, delivering the Bitter Lotus Incense to Yunxia Sect’s VIP booth.

After verifying its authenticity, Purple Mist Fairy accepted the Bitter Lotus Incense, though a trace of regret flickered across her face.

The Yunxia Sect had nearly gathered a complete set of Nascent Soul resources, but lacked the means to acquire a superior quality heart tribulation spirit item.

Superior-grade heart tribulation spirit items were extremely rare, appearing only once in a century. Competition for them was fierce, and their value rivaled that of a Tianying Fruit.

Lan Changʼan, with the memories and experiences of three Nascent Soul True Monarchs, knew that most heart tribulation-related spirit items were merely helpful but not decisive.

For cultivators with unyielding willpower and flawless mental states, lacking heart tribulation spirit items made little difference in the final outcome.

Thus, the older and more prestigious sects placed extreme importance on mental fortitude when selecting disciples.

Even small sects like Jin Yun Valley had corresponding ancestral rules: The winner of the illusion heart platform test must be admitted, no matter how poor their spiritual root aptitude.

As the auction entered its final phase—

High-grade treasures such as fourth-rank Life Extension Pills, Infant Transformation Pills, and a dozen other rare items incited fierce bidding wars among the major powers of Great Yuanʼs Central Region.

In such situations, even the wealthy Core Formation cultivators outside of major factions would find it difficult to compete, as doing so would risk making powerful enemies.

At present, Lan Changʼan could technically be considered backed by a major power.

However, his relationship with True Monarch Yunlan and True Monarch Purple Mist was not deep enough to foster true trust.

If Earth Burrowing Rat could advance to become a fourth-rank Demon King, such concerns would no longer be necessary.

In the end, the Infant Transformation Pill was auctioned off at a relatively modest price—only a few tens of thousands of spirit stones.

This was because the bidders had offered equivalent strategic resources, including two Infant Transformation Pill main ingredients that were not fully mature.

Unlike Foundation Establishment Pills and Crystal Condensation Pills, a single batch of Infant Transformation Pills could only produce one pill at a time.

Fortunately, as long as there were sufficient ingredients, a fourth-rank alchemist could refine them with relative ease, as the difficulty of crafting them wasnʼt too great, and the success rate was relatively high.

...

After the auction ended.

The Yunxia Sect cultivators leading the group did not leave Cloudsky City immediately, as there were still transactions and purchases to be made within the city.

True Monarch Purple Mist had several private meetings to attend, not limited to Nascent Soul cultivators, mainly concerning the sect’s cooperative affairs.

Lan Changʼan also had matters to handle in the city—disposing of stolen goods and making purchases.

Besides acquiring puppet refinement materials, he also took the opportunity to restock some body refinement materials.

Due to the abundant supply of demonic beast blood essence, Cloudsky City had no shortage of medicinal powders that could aid in body refinement.

Lan Changʼan had been at the late third-rank body refinement for fifty years, and he was not far from reaching the peak of it.

By formulating a new type of body refinement medicinal bath, which had lower resistance buildup, the tempering effects would be more pronounced.

While handling purchases and disposing of goods, Lan Changʼan sent out a puppet clone to stake out near the official courier station, where he had left a message last time, keeping an eye out for any sign of Jing Wufeng.

He had not seen Jing Wufeng at the auction this time.

Either he never came, or he possessed an exceptional disguise, making it impossible for Lan Changʼan to detect him amid the large crowd.

Three days later.

At a teahouse across from the official courier station, Jing Wufeng finally appeared.

In a sky-class private booth overlooking the street, a young man in a green silk robe sat by the window, his pupils tinged with a faint azure hue, exuding an air of leisure.

”A spirit-infused puppet? Interesting. Such a rare puppet refinement technique isn’t commonly seen in Great Yuan.”

Jing Wufengʼs gaze flickered slightly as he glanced at a cloaked figure leaning against a corner of the street.

His perception was extraordinary—he had even encountered the legendary Daoist Tianshu, so this sight did not surprise him.

On the other side, Lan Changʼan sensed something amiss and quickly withdrew his puppet clone.

”This guy... he actually saw through my puppet clone without direct contact?”

Lan Changʼan was secretly astonished.

His puppet clone had not released any spiritual sense, and under normal circumstances, anyone below the Nascent Soul stage would have a hard time recognizing it.

A moment later.

Lan Changʼan disguised himself and entered the high-class teahouse opposite the official courier station.

Reporting the alias ”Jing Tian,” he was escorted by a Foundation Establishment female cultivator to a third-floor sky-class private booth.

Inside, the room was sealed with isolation wards, and only Jing Wufeng was present.

”Please, Fellow Daoist Xiang, have a seat.”

”Immortal Jing Tian, long time no see!”

Lan Changʼan, now appearing as a bald-headed youth, smiled faintly.

”Jing Tian Immortal” was the alias Jing Wufeng had used to make a name for himself around Cloudsky City.

The two exchanged greetings, took their seats, and sized each other up.

Jing Wufeng had changed little—after twenty-some years, he had reached the pinnacle of the Core Formation stage.

In this life, Lan Changʼan had only ever dealt with three Immortal Golden Dan cultivators.

Jing Wufeng was one of them—the most mysterious of the three.

He had traveled to Great Yuan from an unknown land through a spatial rift.

...

Inside the private booth.

Rather than getting straight to the point, the two first exchanged casual conversation about the cultivation world’s strange tales and historical anecdotes.

Both were subtly probing each other’s background through their discussion.

With the memories and experiences of three Nascent Soul True Monarchs, Lan Changʼan spoke with absolute confidence.

However, Jing Wufeng’s knowledge and insights were no less profound.

He even demonstrated familiarity with Tianyuan Continent’s ancient history, as well as the cultures and top-tier factions of various great provinces.

”This guy... despite being a mere Core Formation cultivator, his knowledge and secrets surpass those of many Nascent Soul old monsters.”

Lan Changʼan suspected that Jing Wufeng hailed from an ancient and deeply-rooted sect, likely one guarded by a late-stage Nascent Soul Great Cultivator.

”He cultivates both the body and the Dao, has powerful spiritual sense, possesses a quasi-fourth-rank puppet, and has such vast knowledge... Could he be from a holy land of a Deity Transformation sect?”

Jing Wufeng mused inwardly.

He had investigated Lan Changʼan before, yet the latter’s past in the Great Yuan Central Region was completely blank.

Either he had completely changed his identity, or he had come from beyond Great Yuan’s central lands.

”Immortal Xiang has joined Yunxia Sect and traveled alongside the renowned Purple Mist Fairy to the auction. How envious I am.” Jing Wufeng smiled faintly.

”So, Fellow Daoist Jing attended the auction after all.”

”Indeed. I concealed my identity at the time and kept a low profile.”

Jing Wufeng admitted frankly.

”Fellow Daoist Jing has reached the peak of the Core Formation stage. Have you bid on any Nascent Soul formation resources, such as the Infant Transformation Pill?”

”Infant Transformation Pill? Thereʼs no rush.”

Jing Wufeng’s gaze flickered slightly—he realized Lan Changʼan was probing for more information.

In the sacred lands of the Deity Transformation sects on Tianyuan Continent, for truly peerless geniuses, the Infant Transformation Pill was not a necessity.

Nor was it their top priority.

For instance, within the small sect he originated from, there was no lack of alternative breakthrough resources that served as substitutes for the Infant Transformation Pill, completely free of pill toxins and with minimal impact on future potential.

”No rush?”

Lan Changʼan noted that Jing Wufeng didn’t seem particularly interested in acquiring a Infant Transformation Pill—he neither displayed excitement nor longing for it.

Perhaps he was simply too young to feel urgency.

Most Immortal Golden Dan cultivators would be around two hundred years old by the time they reached the pinnacle of the Core Formation stage.

When the topic of age came up, Lan Changʼan noticed something unusual once again.

Due to his cultivation of the Evergreen Technique, he had an acute sense of longevity. A mere glance was enough for him to estimate a cultivator’s basic longevity.

However, Jing Wufeng’s lifespan was completely unreadable.

Many years ago, Lan Changʼan had attempted to deduce Jing Wufeng’s origins, but the result was nothing but a veil of destiny obscuring all clues.

”Fellow Daoist Xiang cultivates both body and qi, with an unparalleled condensed divine soul. Could it be that you intend to pursue ‘Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation’ in the future?”

Jing Wufeng’s gaze flickered as he tested the waters with his question.

From his perspective, Lan Changʼan’s background must be linked to a sacred land of a Deity Transformation-level sect.

The Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation was considered a legend in the human realm, yet in every era of the Tianyuan Continent, the top-tier geniuses of Deity Transformation sacred lands would attempt it.

This was because the birth of Deity Transformation cultivators was heavily restricted by the heavens—

In fact, the entire human realm had a strict limit on how many Deity Transformation experts could exist at a time!

Those who successfully ascended were often individuals of immense fortune, blessed by the Dao of Heaven.

As a result, even peerless talent would not provide a significant advantage in advancing to the Deity Transformation Realm.

”Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation?” Lan Changʼan’s expression remained calm as he shook his head. ”I hold no certainty in such a feat.”

But deep inside, his thoughts were churning like a raging sea.

Who the hell is this Jing Wufeng?!

To him, forming a Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation wasn’t just a legend—it was something he actually considered possible!

Could it be that Jing Wufeng’s sect possessed a method to achieve Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation?

”Fellow Daoist Xiang is being too modest. With proper preparation and a complete method, I’d say you have at least a 10% chance of succeeding.”

Jing Wufeng chuckled, giving him a subtle compliment.

Even he would not dare attempt such a thing—it was simply too great a risk.

His focus was instead on the Nine Disciples Heavenly One Trial—

Only the victor of the trial could ascend to Deity Transformation.

All other survivors would become the followers and guardians of the next Heavenly One Divine Sovereign.

”Fellow Daoist Jing flatters me. A Human Dao Nascent Soul is more than enough for me.”

Lan Changʼan deliberately avoided discussing the matter further, fearing he might reveal too much.

Jing Wufeng was undoubtedly connected to a major force, so it was better to build rapport and slowly deepen their ties over time.

If the method for achieving Heavenly Dao Nascent Soul Formation truly existed, he could try to obtain it through him in the future.

Even if he couldn’t use it in this lifetime, he could pass it on to his next reincarnation.

After some time, they finally got down to business.

”Back in the Ten Thousand Demons Valley, I made a proposal—have you given it some thought, Fellow Daoist Xiang?”

Jing Wufeng smiled confidently.

The opportunity involving the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon was highly suitable for Lan Changʼan’s earth-attribute great demon. Since Lan Changʼan had reached out first, it was likely that he was interested in cooperating.

”I agree to work together.”

”However, we must discuss how the benefits will be divided. I also want clear details on what you’ll require from me in the future.” Lan Changʼan stated directly.

”We will join forces to slay the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon.”

”The most valuable items—the Dragon’s Stone Heart and its Essence Spirit Core—will go to you.”

”Furthermore, I have magical treasures and means to suppress the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon, ensuring our chances of success.”

”That being said, since you’ll gain the greater share of the rewards, you’ll also need to assist me in a future task.”

Jing Wufeng’s tone turned serious.

”I will need your help venturing into the Forbidden Zone in Central Region.”

”We must seal off a dangerous site where demonic energy is leaking.”

”Even Nascent Soul cultivators would face serious risks in this task.”

”However, if you and your spirit beast both advance to the fourth rank, the danger will be significantly reduced.”

While Jing Wufeng clarified the risks, he withheld key details.

Lan Changʼan pondered for a moment—

The deal had clear benefits and risks, making it a reasonable proposition.

If he were to act alone, he had no certainty of defeating the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon, it was a heavenly bloodline demon dragon, carrying traces of true dragon lineage.

Not to mention killing it and obtaining its Stone Heart and Essence Spirit Core would be near impossible on his own.

”Things have changed since our last meeting.” Lan Changʼan smiled faintly. ”I now possess a fourth-rank puppet, my strength has risen by a great margin. Even without you, I could accomplish this with the help of Nascent Soul elders from my sect.”

”A fourth-rank puppet?”

Jing Wufeng raised an eyebrow but showed no doubt.

”Fellow Daoist Xiang cultivates both body and qi, and has even forged a fourth-rank puppet? Truly impressive.”

He was secretly thrilled—

With Lan Changʼan’s formidable strength, his chances of success in the trial would significantly increase.

If he could win Lan Changʼan over, he would stand a better chance at securing a top rank in the first trial round.

”Very well.”

”On top of the initial rewards, I will owe you a favor, Fellow Daoist Xiang.”

Jing Wufeng’s tone was solemn.

Unfortunately, due to the rules of the trial, he could not reveal or hint at his true identity.

Otherwise, the top factions of Heaven Honoured Continent, including the Great Jin Immortal Dynasty, would eagerly pay a high price to obtain his favor.

”Very well! For the sake of my beloved spirit beast, this Xiang has no choice but to take the risk and fight.”

Lan Changʼan sighed dramatically, as though reluctantly agreeing.

Squeak, squeak!

Inside his spirit beast pouch, Earth Burrowing Rat was moved to tears.

”Fellow Daoist Xiang’s deep bond with his spirit beast is truly admirable.”

Jing Wufeng’s tone was one of respect.

The two then established a third-rank spirit contract, reinforced by a Heart Demon Oath.

Lan Changʼan carefully adjusted the contract’s terms, adding a few details.

For example, if they failed to kill the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon and obtain its spoils, the agreement would be nullified.

If the future Forbidden Zone task involved threats beyond mid-stage Nascent Soul level, Lan Changʼan could contest the mission without breaking the oath.

”One year from now, we will meet in Ten Thousand Demons Valley.”

After discussing a few more details, they parted ways.

Whoosh!

Jing Wufeng’s figure dissolved into a gust of ethereal wind, slipping through the cracks of the teahouse before vanishing completely.

…

Half a month later.

The Yunxia Sect group safely returned to the Great Yu Kingdom.

Notably, during their journey back, they were accompanied by Yu Yuanjin, a Nascent Soul sword cultivator from the Great Yu imperial family.

True Monarch Purple Mist treated this Nascent Soul sword cultivator with politeness and respect, engaging in a pleasant conversation along the way.

Lan Changʼan couldn’t help but wonder—how would True Monarch Yunlan react upon hearing this news?

Upon returning to the sect’s mountain gate, Lan Changʼan saw Immortal Yunqing, who had been in seclusion for a long time.

He personally came to welcome the returning group from Cloudsky City.

Immortal Yunqing was over two hundred years old, yet he appeared no older than thirty.

With his refined features and immaculate white feather robe, he carried an elegant and otherworldly aura.

”Martial Mother.”

Immortal Yunqing was not skilled in social interactions, and in front of True Monarch Purple Mist, who looked even younger than him, he appeared somewhat reserved, lowering his head slightly in deference.

Standing beside Purple Mist Fairy, Lan Changʼan observed carefully and noted that Immortal Yunqing had already reached the pinnacle of the Core Formation stage, possessing all the necessary conditions to attempt the Nascent Soul breakthrough.

Given the sect’s activities over the past two decades, Lan Changʼan speculated that Immortal Yunqing would likely attempt to form his Nascent Soul within the next few years.

”How unfortunate… I wonder if he will make it in time.”

A year later, Lan Changʼan was set to meet Jing Wufeng at the Ten Thousand Demons Valley to hunt the Corrupted Stoneheart Dragon—a mission that wouldn’t be completed in a short period.

Immortal Yunqing merely exchanged formal greetings with True Monarch Purple Mist and nodded slightly to Lan Changʼan in a nonchalant manner.

Half a year later.

Lan Changʼan had almost finished his preparations, and his body refinement cultivation was approaching the peak of third rank.

On This Day, in the secluded chamber of Qingluan Peak.

Lan Changʼan took out the Xuanmu Vine Gourd, which was rooted deep underground.

Since his upcoming journey carried significant risks, he naturally wouldn’t leave the vine unattended in the sect.

With everything ready, Lan Changʼan went to the main peak with the fourth-rank spirit vein to meet True Monarch Purple Mist, informing her of his departure.

He explained that he was seeking an opportunity for his Earth Burrowing Rat to advance, doing his utmost so that he wouldn’t leave behind any regrets.

This trip would take at least one year, or at most two to three years.

True Monarch Purple Mist had no reason to refuse.

She even expressed appreciation for Lan Changʼan’s deep bond with his spirit beast, acknowledging his dedication.