NO_NAME
patreon
Chapter 260: King Tianyan’s Shock: Unprecedented Cultivation Speed!
🕑 Added 2024-11-29 15:22:52 +0000 UTC“Master top-tier Heavenly Timing techniques within three years? And if you fail, abandon your positions and dedicate yourself solely to the Heavenly Timing Dao? Zhao Xing, you must be underestimating the difficulty of mastering top-tier techniques!” Hengyuan, usually composed, frowned deeply as he spoke.
Zhao Xing’s statement brimmed with confidence—bordering on arrogance.
To understand, even achieving proficiency in top-tier techniques within five years is a remarkable accomplishment, a testament to extraordinary talent and perception. Those who achieve this are often hailed as possessing exceptional enlightenment.
But three years? That was a feat so rare it could earn a place in historical records.
“On average, it takes those in the third rank of the Primordial Soul realm more than fifteen years to grasp such techniques!” Hengyuan continued. “And yet, you haven’t even reached the third rank.”
“The comprehension of the Dao is inherently linked to the Soul of Fate. You dare make such an audacious claim?”
Hengyuan, as a Doctor of Classical Studies at Xuantian Academy, had an intimate understanding of such statistics. To him, Zhao Xing’s words were not only improbable but almost dismissive of the Heavenly Timing Dao itself.
Why would Hengyuan think this way?
Even if Zhao Xing was a top-tier prodigy, there was one glaring limitation: He intended to send only an avatar for study!
The Myriad Manifestation Avatar technique, while versatile, came with inherent constraints.
An avatar lacked a complete Soul of Fate, which significantly reduced its capacity for insight and comprehension. For instance, if Zhao Xing himself could achieve one hundred percent comprehension, his avatar might only reach a fraction—one percent or, at best, ten percent.
It was akin to a man trying to walk or read with one eye blind and one leg crippled. Naturally, progress would be slow, and perception limited.
Avatar-based cultivation was fundamentally inferior to the insights gained by one’s true self, especially for mastering the subtleties of the Dao, as they were rooted in the soul’s resonance and understanding.
If Simayi Yunhai were present, he would have celebrated Zhao Xing’s proposal—eager to draft a contract immediately. Why? Because if Zhao Xing failed to achieve his goal in three years, he would be bound to fully join Xuantian Academy, severing all ties with the other factions.
Such an outcome would perfectly avenge the slight against Liu Tianning for influencing Yunhai’s junior brother.
“Lord Heng, please don’t misunderstand me,” Zhao Xing said calmly. “I have never looked down upon the Heavenly Timing Dao, nor am I toying with either of you.”
“Prove it, then,” Hengyuan snapped, his frustration evident. Was this young man truly so audacious, or did he know something Hengyuan didn’t?
Zhao Xing nodded, stepping into the center of the hall. He raised a hand, pointing to the ground beneath their feet.
“Buzz—”
The surrounding tables and furnishings began to tremble. Starlight-like specks emerged from the floor, drifting upward and attaching themselves to Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang.
“Hm?” Hengyuan’s eyes narrowed as he felt a subtle pull, a force attempting to siphon his energy.
Geng Shouchang’s eyes lit up. “Essence-Draining Earth Palace Technique? No, it’s weaker than that—but it has the makings of a top-tier technique!”
Zhao Xing had just employed the eleventh derivation of the Boundless Earth Palace technique: Boundless Starlight. This technique was designed to counteract the effects of the Essence-Draining Earth Palace. Similarly, it could also drain energy from targets, albeit with significantly less power—approximately one-tenth of a true top-tier technique.
Yet in terms of structure and essence, it had surpassed the complete mastery of an advanced technique, nearing the threshold of top-tier.
The unique effects, unseen in standard advanced techniques, further distinguished it.
“Why demonstrate Earth-based techniques in our presence?” Hengyuan questioned, his skepticism palpable.
Before Hengyuan could press further, Geng Shouchang raised a hand to stop him. “Let’s hear him out.”
Zhao Xing cupped his hands respectfully and invoked another spell. A golden light shot from his hand to the ground.
“Buzz—”
In an instant, all the teacups, tools, and documents in the hall disintegrated into fine powder without a sound.
This was the twelfth derivation of the Boundless Earth Palace technique: Endless Whirlpool.
“I humbly ask for your critique, my lords,” Zhao Xing said.
As his words fell, the destructive force surged toward Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang.
A faint arc of lightning flickered around Geng Shouchang’s body, while a gentle breeze swirled around Hengyuan. Both men effortlessly neutralized the oncoming force using top-tier techniques.
“Impressive. It’s already close to the level of a top-tier technique,” Geng Shouchang remarked, nodding in approval.
Even Hengyuan, despite his earlier irritation, gave an affirming nod. Zhao Xing’s second demonstration had indeed surpassed the first, taking his Earth-based technique to a whole new level.
With time and refinement, it could well evolve into a true top-tier technique.
To achieve this at merely the fifth rank was nothing short of extraordinary.
However, Hengyuan still couldn’t grasp what Zhao Xing aimed to prove.
The answer came moments later, leaving both men utterly stunned.
“My lords, I developed these two techniques in just two months,” Zhao Xing stated.
A profound silence fell over the hall. Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang stared at the young man standing amidst the scattered remnants of his display.
His calm words hit like a meteor, shattering their composure and stirring waves of disbelief in their hearts.
After a long pause, Geng Shouchang finally spoke. “Did you achieve this in the first heaven of the Canghai Cave-Heaven?”
“Exactly,” Zhao Xing confirmed.
Realization dawned on Geng Shouchang. No wonder Meng Kun had gone to such lengths, even clashing with him at the door, to secure Zhao Xing for Kunyuan Academy.
A talent of this caliber was nothing short of otherworldly.
“You mean to say…” Hengyuan’s voice faltered as he struggled to process Zhao Xing’s claim. “You observed Gu Changqing’s Essence-Draining Earth Palace Technique and, without guidance, independently derived these two techniques?”
There was a world of difference between being taught and self-teaching.
Spells and techniques weren’t like physical objects that could be disassembled and reverse-engineered. For someone to derive techniques solely through observation was almost unfathomable to Hengyuan.
To master and innovate independently, without guidance, was a feat so rare it bordered on the miraculous.
“I possess the same talent for the Heavenly Timing Dao as I do for Earth-based techniques,” Zhao Xing said firmly. “Lord Heng, if I had any disdain for the Heavenly Timing Dao, why would I dedicate myself to its study?”
“It seems I misjudged you,” Hengyuan admitted, bowing slightly in acknowledgment. He was at a loss for words—Zhao Xing’s talent was indisputable.
Meanwhile, Geng Shouchang sighed with regret. Zhao Xing’s extraordinary aptitude would have made him an unparalleled practitioner of the Heavenly Timing Dao, had he chosen to specialize.
Alas, the greater the talent, the greater the ambition.
“I’ll expedite your transfer to the academy,” Geng Shouchang said. “Pursuing mastery across three factions will undoubtedly be a challenging and controversial path. If you don’t succeed within three years, we can revisit your future direction.”
“Understood. Thank you, Lord Geng,” Zhao Xing replied with a respectful bow.
He knew the road ahead would be far from easy. To unify three distinct factions and emerge as the leader of all Shennong was an almost insurmountable challenge.
The entrenched prejudices and rivalries between factions were deeply rooted. Talent alone would not suffice to overcome them.
Even within the Shennong profession, factional disputes were commonplace. The same was true among martial artists, who were divided into sects such as the Sword School and the Qi School.
Which was the true path? Which was the orthodoxy?
Such disputes often culminated in the so-called “Struggles for the Dao,” where lives were lost in the name of proving supremacy.
While Geng Shouchang and Hengyuan were relatively open-minded, Zhao Xing knew that sending his Myriad Manifestation Avatar to Xuantian Academy would likely invite significant scrutiny and doubt in the future.
Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang eventually left.
When Geng Shouchang had arrived earlier, he had been in high spirits. But now, as he departed, there was a certain heaviness to his steps.
Although he had succeeded in recruiting Zhao Xing into the Heavenly Timing faction, it was only Zhao Xing’s avatar that would be joining. Getting even that far had required significant effort, and Geng Shouchang knew he would face considerable pushback for this decision.
The main issue stemmed from the implications surrounding the inheritance of top-tier techniques.
For techniques below the top tier, the process was relatively relaxed. The Great Zhou Dynasty openly collected and distributed low, medium, and advanced-level techniques for free as part of its cultural policy. However, top-tier techniques were in an entirely different league—they weren’t freely taught to just anyone.
“Lord Heng, may I request a favor?” Geng Shouchang transmitted his words through sound transmission.
“Of course. Speak freely.”
“Regarding today’s events, particularly Zhao Xing’s demonstration of Earth-based techniques, please don’t share this with Simayi Yunhai.”
Hengyuan was momentarily surprised but nodded. “Rest assured, I will keep this confidential.”
If Zhao Xing’s extraordinary talent were revealed to Simayi Yunhai, it would likely result in Yunhai opposing Zhao Xing’s recruitment instead of supporting it. After all, Yunhai’s recommendation of Zhao Xing had never been sincere—it was merely a means to exact revenge on Liu Tianning for undermining his faction.
“Thank you.”
As the two stepped out of the Listening Rain Pavilion, they were immediately met by the keen gazes of Meng Kun and Gu Changqing.
Noticing the faint frustration in Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang’s expressions, Meng Kun’s smile widened.
His interpretation was simple: the meeting hadn’t gone smoothly, meaning there was still a good chance for him and Gu Changqing to sway Zhao Xing. Especially since Zhao Xing had invited the previous two lords inside with a smile, Meng Kun saw this as a prime opportunity.
“Changqing, let’s head in,” Meng Kun said with confidence.
Without hesitation, Meng Kun and Gu Changqing strode into the pavilion.
When Xiao Ming arrived with a fresh round of tea, he was greeted by a shocking sight. The once neatly arranged reception hall of the Listening Rain Pavilion was in complete disarray, resembling the aftermath of a storm.
Xiao Ming, however, dared not comment. He didn’t even think of accusing Zhao Xing of “damaging public property at the station.” Instead, he discreetly dispatched a clerk to ask Zhao Xing whether he needed the hall cleaned and rearranged.
“Tell Lord Xiao to have the place restored. I will compensate for the damages in full,” Zhao Xing said without hesitation.
“Yes, sir,” the clerk responded and quickly left.
Turning to Meng Kun and Gu Changqing, Zhao Xing cupped his hands apologetically. “I must apologize for the earlier chaos. Please, give me a moment.”
It wasn’t appropriate to lead them to a side hall for discussions. After all, if the Heavenly Timing faction had been seated in the main hall, while the Earth-based faction was ushered into a smaller side room, it would inevitably be perceived as favoritism. It wasn’t worth causing unnecessary offense.
Fortunately, Meng Kun and Gu Changqing didn’t concern themselves with such trivial matters.
Meng Kun, ever resourceful, gestured toward the grassy field outside. With a simple wave of his hand, he manipulated the earth to form three sturdy tables and stone stools.
“Let’s sit here,” Meng Kun said, taking the lead by pulling Gu Changqing into a seat. He even motioned for Zhao Xing to join them.
Once they were seated, Meng Kun went straight to the point.
“Zhao Xing, join Kunyuan Academy.”
“I can personally guarantee you a position as a Doctor of Classical Studies, complete with an annual research fund of three billion taels,” Meng Kun said, laying out concrete benefits. “Additionally, Kunyuan Academy has access to the most abundant blessed lands and spirit mountains.”
“As a Doctor of Classical Studies, you’ll have yearly opportunities to train in these locations. Top-tier techniques will be open for you to learn, and I’ll ensure that three of our best teachers dedicate a month each year to guiding you personally.”
Meng Kun’s approach was simple yet powerful. Unlike Hengyuan or Geng Shouchang, he didn’t rely on vague promises or theoretical advantages. Instead, he presented clear, specific benefits, going so far as to have already planned out the teachers who would mentor Zhao Xing.
Unlike the others, Meng Kun was fully aware of Zhao Xing’s talent. After all, Zhao Xing had derived two near-top-tier techniques from observing Gu Changqing’s Essence-Draining Earth Palace setup—without any guidance—in just two months. Such brilliance made it clear to Meng Kun that Zhao Xing was worth the effort to recruit.
Seeing Meng Kun and Gu Changqing’s straightforward manner, Zhao Xing didn’t beat around the bush. “Thank you, Lords, for your kind offer. I am willing to join.”
Both Meng Kun and Gu Changqing were briefly stunned. They had anticipated needing far more effort to persuade Zhao Xing, yet here he was agreeing without any resistance.
“However,” Zhao Xing added, “I have one matter to address first and would like to seek your guidance.”
“Go ahead,” Meng Kun said. “If it’s within our power, we’ll solve it for you.”
“For the next few years, I’ll only be sending my Myriad Manifestation Avatar.”
The room fell silent for a moment as Meng Kun and Gu Changqing processed this revelation.
“So that’s the catch,” Gu Changqing muttered, his expression shifting slightly.
No wonder Zhao Xing had been so quick to agree. No wonder Hengyuan and Geng Shouchang had looked so displeased earlier.
“You also agreed to Lord Geng’s proposal?” Gu Changqing asked. “Does that mean you’re sending an avatar to Xuantian Academy as well?”
“Yes,” Zhao Xing confirmed without hesitation.
Both Meng Kun and Gu Changqing felt as though a bucket of cold water had been dumped over their heads.
If Zhao Xing was dividing his attention like this, the impact of recruiting him would be significantly diminished.
“Do you really think you can manage all this?” Gu Changqing asked. “Why not reconsider?”
“Please, give me three years,” Zhao Xing replied. “If within that time I achieve nothing substantial, I’ll abandon all other paths and dedicate myself entirely to the Earth-based Dao.”
“Very well,” Meng Kun said after a moment’s thought.
Three years wasn’t an excessively long time. If Zhao Xing proved incapable within that period, he would naturally realize the futility of his efforts and refocus his priorities. At worst, three years would be a small detour for someone as young as Zhao Xing.
The Earth-based faction, after all, wasn’t as divided as others like the Self faction. Its foundational text, The Return to Origin of the Earth, was inextricably linked with the Self faction’s Yin-Yang Self Classic. Together, these two texts laid the groundwork for cultivating Pure Essence Soil and creating Pure Essence Spaces.
Thus, the Earth-based faction and the Self faction had a natural synergy. Their primary concern wasn’t rivalry but rather Zhao Xing overextending himself.
“My earlier offer still stands,” Meng Kun said with a smile. “However, many of the resources we provide will require your main body to personally retrieve them.”
“Thank you, Lord Meng.”
“When can you set off?” Meng Kun asked.
“I’m ready now,” Zhao Xing said as his body flickered, and a shadow emerged behind him, forming into an avatar.
This was one of his strongest nine avatars.
“Perfect. This avatar will follow me,” Meng Kun said. “We’re due back at Kunyuan Academy in a month, so the timing works well.”
Without wasting any time, Meng Kun and Gu Changqing departed with Zhao Xing’s avatar in tow.
After Meng Kun and Gu Changqing left, Long Xiao emerged from the backyard.
“Finished with the discussions?” Long Xiao asked.
“Yeah,” Zhao Xing nodded.
“You’re going to teach at the academy?” Long Xiao continued.
“Only sending an avatar,” Zhao Xing replied.
“Then where will your true body stay?” Long Xiao asked curiously. “Your true body demands the most focus. With two prestigious academies vying for you, why keep your true body inactive? Do you have an even better plan?”
“I do.” Zhao Xing smiled faintly. “But it involves confidentiality protocols, so I can’t share it with you.”
Naturally, his true body would focus on studying the Derivation of the Divine Spirit. As for holding an official position, he planned to stay in Chongming Prefecture City in a low-pressure role, effectively blending into the background. By dedicating himself to refining the Derivation of the Divine Spirit, his avatars would become stronger, accelerating their mastery of techniques.
His confidence in mastering techniques within three years stemmed precisely from this plan. Once the Derivation of the Divine Spirit broke through, his comprehension speed would skyrocket.
“Well, I won’t linger then,” Long Xiao said. Zhao Xing’s sheer diligence made Long Xiao feel slightly guilty about indulging in leisure.
“Are you coming back for the New Year this year?” Zhao Xing asked. “Your estates in Dongyang have accumulated a lot of wealth. Shouldn’t you at least visit them? The stewards and staff haven’t seen their master in years.”
“How much wealth can a few estates generate? Just keep it for yourself,” Long Xiao said casually.
“Alright then, thanks. I’ll accept the two hundred million,” Zhao Xing replied.
“Wait… what? How much?!” Long Xiao nearly choked, thinking he must have misheard.
“Two hundred million,” Zhao Xing repeated.
Long Xiao’s eyes widened. “How is that even possible? How did those estates generate so much revenue?”
Zhao Xing shrugged. “It’s been ten years. Is two hundred million really that surprising?”
“Of course, it’s surprising!” Long Xiao exclaimed. “What the hell did you do?”
“You probably only remember that I’m a Military Shennong,” Zhao Xing said with a smirk. “Did you forget that the Grand Shennong oversees financial operations across numerous departments?”
He began listing them off: “The Grand Shennong manages the Inner Treasury, the Imperial Treasury, the Couriers’ Treasury, the Yuanfeng Treasury, the Fabric Treasury, the Tea Treasury, the Miscellaneous Goods Treasury, the Grain Division, the Audit Office, the Miscellaneous Buying Bureau, the Miscellaneous Sales Bureau, the Currency Treasury, the Pawn Office, the Apothecary Bureau, the Public Welfare Bureau, the Real Estate Office, the Coal Fields, the Fragrance Treasury...”
“Do you think someone aiming to become the Grand Shennong wouldn’t know how to make money?” Zhao Xing continued. “Over these ten years, I casually handled your estates and managed to earn two hundred million.”
“Even Chen Shijie’s estates are doing similarly well. Just from medicinal herb sales in the past two years, a massive profit was made. But explaining it all would be pointless since you wouldn’t understand. The bottom line is that since ten years ago, you’ve had two hundred million in liquid assets.”
“Is it too late for me to switch careers now?” Long Xiao asked with mock seriousness.
“Haha! Are you planning to use your Seven-Star Divine Sword to clear weeds?”
“….” Long Xiao fell silent, taking a moment to digest this new reality.
“Just save the money for me,” he eventually said.
“Alright,” Zhao Xing agreed with a nod. “The family’s wealth stays with the family, but I’ll stash some private funds for you.”
“You’re the best brother!” Long Xiao declared.
On September 22, in the 30th year of the Jingxin Era, during the Autumn Equinox, Zhao Xing’s transfer was officially completed.
Half a month earlier, he had already met with Prefect Fan Hongyi and Advisor Wang Xuanyi in Chongming Prefecture City to express his desire for a low-profile position. They had readily agreed. After the Autumn Equinox, his transfer was finalized.
He moved from the Twin-Dragon Horse Directorate back to Chongming Prefecture City, joining the Prefecture’s Shennong Office as the Chief of the Altar of Earth and Agriculture, a superior Fifth-Rank position.
The Altar of Earth and Agriculture was an overlap between the Shennong Office and the Divine Temple, a unique governmental department. The chief role could be filled by a Shennong official or a ritualist, with primary duties revolving around spring planting and autumn harvests. It involved conducting ceremonies to pray for the Land Deity’s blessings for favorable weather.
Many Shennong officials believed in relying on natural forces, attributing abundant harvests to divine entities such as the Land God and the seasonal deities. Zhao Xing, however, was a staunch advocate of the “Man triumphs over nature” philosophy, a view more commonly held among Military Shennong.
As Chief of the Altar of Earth and Agriculture, Zhao Xing’s primary responsibilities were agricultural rituals. For instance, during spring planting, officials would lead by example by plowing the government’s public fields, encouraging farmers to follow suit. These events included ceremonial altar openings, sacrifices, demonstrations of techniques, and harvest reports to show that prayers had been answered by Heaven.
The position also oversaw spiritual mountains near the prefecture city, handling mountain openings and closures. For example, the ritual conducted at the Ling Mountain of Dong Lake in Nanyang County had been a similar ceremony overseen by the Shennong Office.
There were also activities associated with Spring Altar Day and other seasonal events.
Despite appearances, this role was relatively light. With only three major busy periods—Spring Altar Day, spring planting, and autumn harvest—the workload wasn’t significant. Moreover, spiritual mountains under the jurisdiction of the prefecture city were usually “sealed mountains,” meaning they were only opened every ten, thirty, or fifty years.
It was a comfortable post often assigned to officials nearing retirement.
For someone as talented as Zhao Xing, whose future had seemed limitless, choosing such a position baffled many.
Even Yin Qiquan was perplexed. Just last year, he had gone to great lengths to plant Qi Ming as the county magistrate of Twin-Dragon Island, only for Zhao Xing to transfer out this year to such an idle position. This transfer made it almost impossible to scheme against Zhao Xing, raising the difficulty of targeting him to an unattainable level.
Yin Qiquan reported this to the Blood Spirit Sovereign.
When the Blood Spirit Sovereign learned of it, he was equally speechless. He had been meticulously planning an assassination, only for Zhao Xing to retreat to the prefecture city, under the direct observation of Yin Gods.
“It’s almost as if he knows someone is after him,” the Blood Spirit Sovereign remarked suspiciously. “Forget it. We’ll wait for another opportunity. He’s bound to leave that idle post sooner or later.”
Joining Zhao Xing in the transfer was Chen Shijie.
Although the Altar of Earth and Agriculture was a relaxed position, there were still some responsibilities. When Zhao Xing was promoted, he made sure to have Chen Shijie transferred as well, appointing him as Deputy Chief of the Altar of Earth and Agriculture. It was a Fifth-Rank subordinate position, effectively making Chen Shijie his assistant.
Chen Shijie, who had been clueless about the promotion, immediately understood the reason upon seeing Zhao Xing.
“So you’re the reason for this sudden promotion? And such a major departmental shift too!” Chen Shijie exclaimed.
“Haha, life on the island was boring for you. It’s better to come back,” Zhao Xing replied.
“Come back so we can be bored together?” Chen Shijie teased. “Neither of us knows the Shennong Ritual Technique. How are we supposed to serve as chiefs of the Altar of Earth and Agriculture?”
“If you don’t know, you can learn,” Zhao Xing said. “You’re from the Earth-based faction. How can you not revere the Land Deity?”
“Alright, fine. I’ll learn,” Chen Shijie sighed. Despite being a Military Shennong, he had never studied the Ritual Technique.
In truth, the Ritual Technique was a core subject for Military Shennong, particularly since Da Zhou raised many powerful Yin Gods, requiring other professions to learn at least basic possession techniques.
On September 26, Zhao Xing entered the Divine Temple for another Fortune baptism. This time, he visited the Sacred Beast Hall instead of the Hall of Heavenly Heart.
The ritual was carried out under the auspices of three beasts: the Mountain Cat, the Blue Lion Hound, and the Spirit Illusion Goat. These three had recently been awarded the honorary title of Third-Class Heavenly Fortune Officials for their outstanding performances in the Myriad Beasts Competition. They were also granted Third-Class Earl titles.
Although the title carried no real administrative power, the nobility ranking was genuine. The court allocated a plot of land for the three beasts and even planned to construct Tuoquan Palace for them, with Zhao Xing assigned as the supervisor.
Surveying the Fortune energy shared by the three beasts, Zhao Xing noted that his lifespan had increased by five years. Using the Five-Finger Fate Technique, he confirmed a slight improvement in his overall luck.
This increase was roughly equivalent to a promotion in rank.
“You three, train diligently under Long Xiao. Obey him, and I’ll take you to the Dragon Court for a feast later,” Zhao Xing instructed.
“Woof!” came three enthusiastic replies.
“Long Xiao, take good care of them. Ten years from now, when I enter the Dragon Court’s ancient grounds, I’ll be counting on them,” Zhao Xing said.
“Don’t worry. I’ll make sure they’re well-trained,” Long Xiao assured him with a grin. “You can count on me.”
Chen Shijie, watching from the side, laughed. “You’re saving money for him, and he’s raising your beasts. Both of you seem to have struck a good deal. Maybe I should put in more effort in my role as Deputy Chief.”
“Oh? Is Gui Niang managing your finances too?” Zhao Xing teased.
“Get lost!” Chen Shijie snapped. “Why’d you have to bring that up?”
“Hahaha!”
Jingxin Era, Year 30, October 7th, Frost Descent.
Zhao Xing’s true body arrived at the Military Realm's Heavenly Secret Hall, specifically the Star Palace, to begin cultivating the Derivation of the Divine Spirit.
“The Divine Spirit Seven-Star Diagram begins with the Soul Refining Chapter. Start there,” instructed the Lord Tianyan as he led Zhao Xing to a side hall within the Star Palace.
Inside the hall were seven pools, each surrounded by dense mist. The pools churned with countless medicinal herbs, their fumes filling the air with a pungent, complex aroma.
“The soul is divided into three, and the spirit into seven. The seven spirits are: Heaven’s Surge, Spiritual Wisdom, Vital Energy, Strength, Central Core, Essence, and Heroic Spirit.”
“These seven Refining Spirit Pools each contain tens of thousands of premium sixth-rank herbs boiled to perfection.”
“Enter the Vital Energy Pool first and visualize the Divine Spirit Seven-Star Diagram. When all seven pools have dried up, you will have completed the Spirit Refinement stage and reached the pinnacle of the Fourth Rank.”
“Yes,” Zhao Xing responded decisively. Without hesitation, he stripped down and leapt into the pool.
The refining of the seven spirits must follow a specific sequence. Zhao Xing entered the first pool, the Strength Spirit Pool, which focused on physical strength.
Completing the refinement of the Strength Spirit would signify entering the early stage of the Fourth Rank.
“Blub—blub—”
The pool bubbled continuously. Zhao Xing immediately felt an intense heat coursing through his body. His bones tingled and itched while a burning sensation spread across his skin.
He began to visualize the Divine Spirit Seven-Star Diagram. At the same time, a star in the sky lit up, and a beam of starlight descended, enveloping his body.
In less than fifteen minutes, Zhao Xing felt his body swell noticeably. His bones thickened, his flesh expanded, and his entire figure appeared to grow bulkier.
However, the starlight continued to shine down, gradually restoring him to his normal size. Through this repeated contraction and expansion, Zhao Xing felt his golden bones grow denser and his meridians become tougher.
Half an hour later, Zhao Xing completed the refinement in the Strength Spirit Pool.
“Impressive. Your foundation is exceptionally solid. Refining spirits is particularly challenging for Shennong cultivators, yet you completed it swiftly,” praised the Lord Tianyan with a nod.
Zhao Xing, without pause, moved to the second pool.
Of course, his foundation was solid—he had consumed countless rare elixirs, and his golden bones were already perfected.
Typically, Shennong cultivators were physically weaker compared to martial artists, making spirit refinement an arduous process. However, Zhao Xing faced no such difficulty in refining the Strength Spirit.
The second pool was the Vital Energy Spirit Pool, which governed vitality. Enhancing this spirit directly increased one’s total energy reserves and prolonged endurance in prolonged battles.
Before refining the Vital Energy Spirit, Zhao Xing could cast seven spells consecutively before needing a brief pause to replenish his energy. Skilled opponents could exploit this gap during combat.
This limitation forced Zhao Xing to always activate his Mist Concealment Technique during battles, allowing him to hide while recharging. However, after refining the Vital Energy Spirit, he would be able to cast seventy spells in a single breath without interruption.
“Refining the Vital Energy Spirit took over two hours and required an additional medicinal bath midway through,” observed the Lord Tianyan, watching the gradually drying pool. “He has cultivated Pure Essence Soil, so his vitality reserves surpass the norm.”
By the end of the refinement, Zhao Xing’s Pure Essence Soil had reached the fourth level, spanning a total area of 320,000 square meters—another benefit of refining the Vital Energy Spirit.
With a splash, Zhao Xing moved on to the Essence Spirit Pool and the Heroic Spirit Pool.
The Essence Spirit governed mental strength, while the Heroic Spirit governed willpower. Refining these spirits enhanced bodily resilience, particularly in areas such as detoxification and regeneration. Wounds healed faster, and resistance to heat, cold, and toxins greatly improved, significantly increasing one’s overall vitality.
In gaming terms, refining these spirits effectively boosted various resistance stats.
During the Heavenly Gang and Earth Fiend stages, cultivators also strengthened their Essence and Heroic Spirits, though the process was more profound and comprehensive at the current stage.
The next spirits—Spiritual Wisdom and Heaven’s Surge—focused on improving spell comprehension, wisdom, and mental acuity.
The final spirit, the Central Core Spirit, provided an all-encompassing enhancement.
Zhao Xing spent half a month refining all seven spirits. At the end of this period, he leapt from the last pool, his entire body radiating golden light and his eyes gleaming with sharp brilliance.
He had achieved the pinnacle of the Fourth Rank!
“Excellent. Your speed in refining the spirits is remarkable. Among the 38 participants in this batch, you rank ninth,” the Lord Tianyan remarked, appearing by the poolside.
“Ninth?” Zhao Xing raised an eyebrow in surprise.
“You’re a Shennong cultivator. Ranking ninth is already exceptional. Were you expecting to be first?” The Lord Tianyan chuckled. “How do you think the martial artists would feel about that?”
The prerequisite for entering the Dragon Court’s ancient grounds required participants to bring a battle beast, meaning not all competitors were true beast tamers.
Zhao Xing speculated that many among the 38 participants were not formally trained beast tamers either.
“Next, you’ll begin soul refinement,” the Lord Tianyan said, his tone slowing. “Refining the spirits is relatively easy; refining the soul is far more difficult.”
“The Divine Spirit Seven-Star Diagram’s Spirit Refining Chapter is merely the foundation for soul refinement.”
“Whether or not you can master the first layer depends entirely on your talent. External aids will be of little help from this point forward,” he added.
Zhao Xing nodded. Some techniques and secret arts could not rely on external assistance.
Items like Transcendent Paintings or Dragon Soul Pendants were ineffective. The Divine Spirit Seven-Star Diagram itself functioned as a transcendent-level artifact, surpassing all external aids.
If comprehension through the diagram proved unsuccessful, other tools would be equally futile.
Even the state’s Fortune Baptism could only raise one’s realm, not enhance spell comprehension.
That said, for cultivators at the Third Rank of the Primordial Soul Realm, practicing the Derivation of the Divine Spirit was slightly easier. With a stronger life soul and body, understanding the principles of the heavens and earth naturally became more accessible.
The Lord Tianyan led Zhao Xing to a room with four towering spell walls.
“There are two ways to comprehend the first layer.”
“The first is to directly study the spell walls. If you succeed, that’s ideal, and it’s relatively safe.”
“The second is through the Secret Patterned Stars.”
“Above the Star Platform, seven stars will align. Once you begin comprehension, your life soul will synchronize with the movement of these stars.”
The Lord Tianyan approached a button near the spell wall and gave it a light press.
“Boom—”
Seven stars lit up, emitting brilliant rays that filled Zhao Xing’s entire field of vision. Each star was encircled by star rings adorned with countless patterns, symbols, and inscriptions.
The stars themselves bore ancient carvings identical to the designs on the spell walls.
“Activate this button, and your life soul will involuntarily align with the stars' rotation.”
“It will feel as though seven millstones are grinding your soul in unison.”
“If you can’t endure it, press this button immediately to halt the process,” the Lord Tianyan warned, his expression stern.
With a wave of his hand, 36 jade bottles, each glowing faintly blue, appeared.
“These are Soul Essence Liquids. Each bottle contains thirty drops.”
“Extracted from the ninth-rank plant Soul Essence Grass of the Yin Realm, it’s designed to repair the life soul.”
“These 36 bottles are enough for three years of cultivation.”
“However, their supply is extremely limited. If you exhaust all 36 bottles without mastering the first layer, it means you lack the talent for this method, and the Heavenly Secret Hall will not provide further resources,” the Lord Tianyan declared. “At that point, you’ll have to wait until you reach the Third Rank to try again.”
“Understood,” Zhao Xing replied firmly.
Cultivating the Derivation of the Divine Spirit was fraught with risk.
The Soul Essence Liquid served as a precious auxiliary resource, not for comprehension but for repairing life soul injuries. Without it, using the second method carried a high risk of irreversible damage.
“Be cautious. Do not push yourself too hard,” the Lord Tianyan warned gravely. “If you can’t succeed now, you’ll still have another chance in the Third Rank.”
“Yes, I will be extremely careful.”
After the Lord Tianyan left, Zhao Xing sat cross-legged beside the spell wall.
At this moment, the seven stars above remained completely still.
Even so, merely looking at the intricate patterns on the wall gave Zhao Xing a feeling of dizziness.
This dizziness wasn’t physical—it emanated from his life soul.
“I’ll start by comprehending the patterns on the wall,” Zhao Xing muttered to himself.
Shifting his gaze away from the overwhelming patterns of the stars, he focused on the diagrams carved onto the spell wall.
Compared to the celestial stars, the patterns on the wall seemed less awe-inspiring.
They were just replicas, lacking the divine essence of the originals.
Zhao Xing began visualizing seven stars in his mind. The faint, illusory silhouettes of these stars appeared in his Sea of Consciousness, their dim light shining gently onto his life soul.
A sharp, stinging sensation crept over him, his instincts screaming for him to stop.
“Just visualizing them causes such pressure,” Zhao Xing thought. “No wonder this is considered the ultimate soul-refinement technique.”
“Fortunately, I’ve consumed the Primordial Soul Fruit. I can endure this,” he reassured himself, banishing stray thoughts and immersing himself fully in his training.
By the end of the first day, he had adapted to the presence of the seven star projections within his Sea of Consciousness.
“The seven stars illuminating my life soul… I can handle it,” Zhao Xing mused.
“This is thanks to my cultivation of the Myriad Law Straw Puppet and my consumption of the Soul Essence Pills and the Primordial Soul Fruit,” he noted with satisfaction.
The earlier stinging sensation had faded. He now felt a warm glow enveloping his entire body, as if he were basking in sunlight.
“To cultivate the first layer, the initial step is ‘Sea of Consciousness Reflecting Seven Stars.’”
“If the seven star projections don’t manifest in the Sea of Consciousness during visualization…”
“Or if they manifest but their light becomes unbearable, then one has no choice but to rely on the mechanism of the Star Platform—those massive patterned stars overhead—for forced training.”
“However, that method is far riskier.”
The refinement process consisted of two filtering stages:
The first involved directly comprehending the replica patterns on the spell wall. Successfully manifesting the ‘Sea of Consciousness Reflecting Seven Stars’ and enduring their illumination proved the cultivator’s innate talent.
The second method involved the floating patterned stars above—a far more perilous approach akin to entering a life-and-death battle to force comprehension. The risk of injury or even death was significantly higher.
“Patience,” Zhao Xing murmured. Although he felt confident in trying the second method, it was only the first day of training.
He decided to continue visualizing the diagrams on the spell wall.
The ultimate goal of the first layer was Life Soul Imprinting the Seven Stars.
The leap from ‘Sea of Consciousness Reflecting Seven Stars’ to Life Soul Imprinting the Seven Stars was immense.
Days passed as Zhao Xing’s true body remained on the Star Platform, diligently visualizing the seven-star patterns on the spell wall.
Half a month later, Zhao Xing paused his visualization.
At this point, significant changes had occurred in his life soul.
Specks of starlight now circled his life soul, glittering brightly.
“I can manipulate the Myriad Law Straw Puppets more easily now. My life soul has become more condensed. Previously, my puppets could only exert 50% of my main body’s power. Now, they can reach 55%.”
“Additionally, my main body and puppets share a clearer understanding of the Dao.”
“Simply gaining a superficial understanding of this technique has brought such substantial benefits. This truly deserves its reputation as the ultimate method.”
Zhao Xing looked up at the massive patterned stars overhead.
“I can try imprinting the seven stars onto my life soul now.”
Taking a deep breath, Zhao Xing activated the mechanism.
“Boom—”
The seven stars began to rotate.
The sound caught the attention of the Lord Tianyan, who reappeared in the Star Palace, observing Zhao Xing from afar.
“Why is he rushing to train with the patterned stars?” The Lord Tianyan frowned.
“It’s only been half a month.”
In the Lord Tianyan’s view, Zhao Xing was being far too hasty. He should have focused on comprehending the patterns on the spell wall first.
“Youngsters these days… It’s hard to resist the allure of top-tier techniques,” he thought with a sigh.
“Boom—”
The enormous patterned stars above whirled into motion.
Zhao Xing stared at the seven stars.
In that moment, his soul seemed to freeze.
The stars appeared to penetrate his eyes and drill directly into his Sea of Consciousness.
The previously illusory star projections within his Sea of Consciousness solidified, shining brilliantly like real celestial bodies.
“Boom— Boom—”
The seven patterned stars surged forward, crashing into his life soul.
The pain was excruciating!
The stars, immense and heavy, rolled over his life soul, grinding it like millstones. Zhao Xing felt as though his soul was being torn apart.
“Aaaahhh—!” he cried out involuntarily.
His life soul was being compressed and distorted. Yet, thanks to the resilience developed during his visualization practice, Zhao Xing managed to endure.
“Boom—”
One of the patterned stars vanished, merging into Zhao Xing’s life soul.
The imprint of the first star was complete!
“Boom—”
The remaining six stars pressed down on Zhao Xing once more.
“Boom—”
The second star was also successfully imprinted.
“Aaaahhh—!”
The surge of pain reached its peak, and Zhao Xing cried out again. As he struggled to imprint the third star, his life soul began to show signs of tearing. Recognizing his limit, Zhao Xing quickly halted the process.
“Hummm—”
He slapped the mechanism’s button, and the rotating stars came to an abrupt stop.
Simultaneously, the turbulence in his Sea of Consciousness subsided.
“Pop—” Zhao Xing removed the stopper from a Soul Essence Liquid bottle, letting a single drop fall into his mouth.
The liquid felt weightless, like air, as it entered his body and directly nourished his Sea of Consciousness, where it was absorbed by his life soul.
The tearing was instantly repaired, and his life soul was restored to its original state.
“Whew—” Zhao Xing exhaled deeply.
The Lord Tianyan approached him with a stern expression.
“You’re too impulsive. I told you to be extremely careful! Why would you start soul refinement after only half a month of comprehension?”
“How are you feeling now? Do you need another drop of Soul Essence Liquid?” the Lord Tianyan asked.
“Thank you for your concern, Your Highness.” Zhao Xing clasped his hands in gratitude. “I underestimated the difficulty of Life Soul Imprinting the Seven Stars. By the time I reached the third star, my life soul was beginning to tear apart.”
“But thanks to the Soul Essence Liquid you provided, I’m fine now.”
The Lord Tianyan froze. “What did you just say? You’ve already reached the Life Soul Imprinting the Seven Stars stage? And you’ve imprinted two stars?”
A flash of astonishment crossed his eyes. Two stars in just half a month?
“Yes.” Zhao Xing nodded. “When I attempted the third star, signs of tearing and collapse appeared, so I stopped… Your Highness? Your Highness?”
Zhao Xing noticed the Lord Tianyan staring at him with an odd expression.
The Lord Tianyan suppressed his shock. “Well done. You… continue your efforts. No, wait—rest for now.”
The Lord Tianyan quickly left.
Where was he going?
He went to check the records.
He realized that Zhao Xing’s cultivation speed might rival—or even surpass—the fastest recorded in history.
Unable to contain his excitement, he needed to confirm whether the record had been broken.
Who wouldn’t want to witness history? And the person breaking the record happened to be someone he had personally discovered!
“This boy is a monster… The fastest two-star record? Let me see… Oh my! It’s been broken!”
The Lord Tianyan stared at a classified file. Clearly written within: Fastest record for reaching two stars in the first layer of Derivation of the Divine Spirit: eighteen days.
“Ha! What a treasure I’ve found!” The Lord Tianyan burst into laughter.
Previous Chapter | | Next Chapter
