ã€ŠCultivating in the Shadow of the Female Devilã€‹


 1: Wake up and see the female devil

    Tianyin Sect of the Demon Path

    At the bottom of the Heartless Cliff, a tranquil river wound through the mountains. The water¡¯s surface gleamed under the clear sky, flowing gently and serenely.

    Bang!

    A muffled sound broke the peace, emanating from a small wooden cabin near the riverbank.

    The cabin had two floors, surrounded by a simple wooden fence. Inside the fenced area, spiritual herbs thrived, their subtle fragrance wafting into the air.

    Second Floor

    Jiang Hao was flung against the wall. A stunning woman clad in translucent silk appeared by his side in an instant, pressing a sharp sword to his neck. The blade nicked his skin, and crimson blood slowly seeped out.

    At this moment, Jiang Hao felt as if he were staring death in the face.

    It was an unwarranted disaster.

    Last night, after pruning the spiritual herbs and preparing to cultivate, a woman had suddenly descended from the sky. Her face was flushed, and her aura chaotic.

    She was breathtakingly beautiful, with an unparalleled figure. However, her mind appeared muddled, likely due to poisoning or cultivation deviation.

    Though Jiang Hao had no intention of intervening, the woman, whose cultivation was unfathomable, forcibly dragged him to the second floor and unleashed her wrath.

    For the first time, he experienced such an ordeal. While the sensations were not unpleasant, he had no choice but to endure passively.

    The woman was flawless, her beauty almost divine. If not for the murderous intent in her eyes when she awoke, she would have been perfect.

    At dawn, when the woman regained her senses, she unsheathed her sword against him, leading to the current standoff.

    From her cold, humiliated gaze, Jiang Hao deduced she remembered the events of last night.

    She seemed to be debating whether to kill him.

    "Senior, perhaps there¡¯s been a misunderstanding," Jiang Hao stammered, trying to say something¡ªanything¡ªeven though he himself was unsure what misunderstanding could have occurred.

    "Are you a disciple of Tianyin Sect?" the woman asked coldly.

    With the sword at his throat, Jiang Hao could only croak, "Yes."

    "Swallow this," she commanded, handing him a pill with an expressionless face.

    "What is it?" Jiang Hao asked instinctively.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    Bang!

    Her long leg kicked him squarely in the stomach, forcing him to open his mouth. The pill was shoved down his throat.

    Without another word, the woman grabbed her fallen robe. Shrouded in a pink mist, she leapt out the window and vanished.

    "Huuh..."

    Confirming her departure, Jiang Hao let out a heavy sigh of relief. He touched his neck and felt the scab forming over the wound, his thoughts racing.

    "Her arrival must¡¯ve been an accident, but her killing intent was real. I almost had to use my only life-saving chance. That woman¡¯s power is terrifying."

    He stepped onto the balcony and gazed at the surrounding cliffs, still shaken.

    Though the woman¡¯s beauty was beyond mortal comprehension and they had shared an intimate moment, such things held no sway in a world of cultivation.

    Especially not in a demonic sect.

    One careless move could lead to death¡ªor worse.

    "Life was much better in the peaceful modern world," Jiang Hao sighed, shaking his head.

    He had been transmigrated to this world for 19 years.

    From being abandoned by his family to being sold by a scheming stepmother into the Demon Path, his early years were full of hardships. If not for his innate talent for cultivation and the timely recruitment of the sect, he might have already perished as a sacrificial offering.

    If he could choose, he would have joined a righteous sect, like the prestigious Haotian Sect, renowned as the strongest in the immortal world.

    Unfortunately, luck was not on his side, and he was forced to eke out an existence within the Demon Path.

    Luckily, his cultivation had brought some changes to his life.

    He had gained... something extra.

    Focusing his mind, Jiang Hao summoned a panel visible only to him:

    [Name: Jiang Hao]

    [Age: 19]

    [Cultivation Level: Qi Refinement Stage 9]

    [Techniques: Tianyin Hundred Transformations]

    [Abilities: Ninefold Substitute Death (Unique), Daily Appraisal (Locked)]

    [Vitality: 100/100 (Trainable)]

    [Cultivation Points: 100/100 (Trainable)]

    [Abilities: 1/3 (Fragments Required)]

    Seeing the panel, Jiang Hao let out a breath of relief. His vitality, cultivation points, and ability fragments had been painstakingly gathered over time.

    By cultivating spiritual herbs, slaying beasts, and roaming the land, he collected mysterious bubbles containing these resources, along with treasures and cultivation aids.

    It wasn¡¯t easy to accumulate enough points to reach a hundred; he had spent years gathering them for the second time.

    The first accumulation had tempered his body, elevating him from Qi Refinement Stage 3 to Stage 8.

    Now, he dared not hide his progress too much¡ªit was better to appear talented in this ruthless sect than to act mediocre.

    Here in the Demon Path, even minor mistakes could result in death.

    Last night was proof enough.

    As for abilities, unlike vitality and cultivation points, they required three fragments to form one complete skill.

    So far, he had unlocked only one ability: Daily Appraisal.

    The Ninefold Substitute Death was his innate talent.

    Jiang Hao returned to his room, his gaze falling on the blood-stained sheets. With a heavy sigh, he decided to change them.

    "The bloodstains probably saved me from further harm. Who knows what she might¡¯ve done otherwise."

    "I don¡¯t even know who she is. I just hope she isn¡¯t part of Tianyin Sect."

    If she sought him out to exact vengeance, it would be disastrous.

    Abused and killed¡ªhow unfair would that be?

    Feeling a deep sense of inadequacy for failing to protect himself, Jiang Hao tidied up the bedding and left for the herb garden to tend to the Severance Grass.

    "Tonight, I¡¯ll attempt to break through to the Foundation Establishment stage. I¡¯ll also visit the library to figure out what pill she fed me," Jiang Hao murmured, formulating his next steps.

    "The woman¡¯s appearance was far from normal. I¡¯ll need to stay vigilant in the coming days."

    The Tianyin Sect was a top-tier sect. While it was unlikely to be attacked by righteous sects, he couldn¡¯t rule out the possibility entirely.

    Caution was a virtue in the world of cultivation.

 2: Red Rain Leaf, Sect Leader of Tianyin Sect

    Tianyin Sect

    Hundred Flowers Lake

    Situated at the highest point of the Tianyin Sect, the lake resembles a celestial pool.

    Wildflowers bloom in abundance around the lake, and its water is crystal clear and tranquil. Occasionally, spirit beasts surface, creating ripples that break the serenity.

    At the lake''s center stands an island, adorned with blooming flowers and crowned by a crimson pavilion.

    Beneath the pavilion, a woman dressed in red sits, her brows slightly furrowed. Her icy gaze betrays disdain as she brushes her fingertips over the surface in front of her.

    Whoosh!

    A gentle breeze rustles through the flower fields.

    A young woman in white, delicate and beautiful, lands gracefully before the pavilion. Her expression reveals both surprise and reverence as she addresses the woman within:

    ¡°Sect Leader, you¡¯ve emerged from seclusion?¡±

    The red-clad woman turns slightly to look at the visitor. Her breathtaking features momentarily captivate the young woman in white, yet the icy glare in her eyes drives her to lower her head in fear.

    ¡°Bai Zhi,¡± the red-clad woman¡¯s voice is calm yet piercing. ¡°Has everyone forgotten about the Tianyin Sect in recent years?¡±

    This is Red Rain Leaf, the Sect Leader of the demonic Tianyin Sect.

    Before she assumed leadership, the Tianyin Sect was merely a second-rate sect. Under her rule, however, it rose to prominence as a first-tier sect.

    On her very first day as Sect Leader, she launched a campaign of conquest, subduing all surrounding factions in one decisive strike.

    The war raged for thirty years, rivers ran red with blood, and the Tianyin Sect emerged stronger with each victory. The resources they acquired grew vast, and the name "Demonic Maiden of Tianyin" echoed across the land.

    When the wars ended, Red Rain Leaf turned her focus inward, managing the sect with meticulous care. Within just ten years, she established a balanced system, setting the sect on a steady course and ensuring its self-sufficiency.

    Afterward, she entered seclusion for sixty years.

    ¡°Please enlighten me, Sect Leader,¡± Bai Zhi knelt, trembling with fear.

    Bai Zhi, one of the four Guardian Elders of the Tianyin Sect, had earned Red Rain Leaf¡¯s trust and served as the acting head of the sect. If the sect¡¯s reputation had indeed waned in recent years, it could only be due to her negligence.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

    How could she not be terrified?

    Red Rain Leaf stared at Bai Zhi, expressionless and silent.

    The only sounds were the rustling wind and Bai Zhi¡¯s unsteady breathing. After a while, Red Rain Leaf finally shifted her gaze.

    Her sixty years of seclusion should have been uneventful. Yet, at the critical moment of her breakthrough... she was ambushed.

    The attacker wasn¡¯t from another demonic sect; their techniques were those of the righteous sect Azure Heaven Mountain and included despicable and underhanded methods.

    Particularly troubling was the woman who carried hidden toxins within her body. Upon death, the toxins would spread indiscriminately, catching her off guard.

    With the invasion of the toxins and the subsequent risk of qi deviation, she had no choice but to retreat to the base of the Broken Sentiment Cliff.

    Thus came the events of last night.

    Such insidious methods should not have belonged to Azure Heaven Mountain.

    ¡°Have there been any recent movements among the righteous sects?¡± Red Rain Leaf¡¯s voice was elegant yet commanding.

    ¡°None at all,¡± Bai Zhi quickly replied. ¡°Azure Heaven Mountain is the closest righteous sect, but they¡¯ve been preoccupied with their Grand Dao Assembly. They wouldn¡¯t have the resources to act against us.

    Moreover, Sect Leader, your overwhelming power back then ensured they wouldn¡¯t dare act recklessly.¡±

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Red Rain Leaf¡¯s lips curled into a meaningful smile.

    Seeing Bai Zhi¡¯s hesitation, she continued:

    ¡°For now, my return shall remain a secret. You will continue managing the sect. Also, investigate the disciples and root out any spies from other factions.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Bai Zhi responded hurriedly, not daring to ask further questions.

    After a brief silence, Red Rain Leaf suddenly asked, ¡°Bai Zhi, you¡¯re not a spy from another sect, are you?¡±

    Thud!

    Bai Zhi prostrated herself on the ground, her voice trembling with fear:

    ¡°Sect Leader, how could I possibly dare?¡±

    Red Rain Leaf gazed at her for a long time before nodding. In a softer tone, she said, ¡°You may leave.¡±

    Bai Zhi rose with trembling limbs and turned to depart, only to hear the Sect Leader¡¯s voice again:

    ¡°Oh, and organize the sect¡¯s records. Mark down the arrangements of recent years¡ªI want to see what you¡¯ve been up to.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Bai Zhi replied, retreating from the island.

    As Bai Zhi left, Red Rain Leaf raised her hand slightly, pressing her knuckles to her lips as she coughed twice.

    Sixty years ago, she had trusted Bai Zhi. Sixty years later, she still trusted her.

    Yet the location of her secluded cultivation had been known only to Bai Zhi. The ambush left her with an inescapable suspicion of betrayal.

    For now, however, her assessment suggested Bai Zhi was still useful.

    Red Rain Leaf closed her eyes slowly, and silence enveloped the surroundings.

    Broken Sentiment CliffSpiritual Herb Garden

    Jiang Hao arrived at the entrance of the Spiritual Herb Garden, intending to collect some floating orbs of energy to enhance his strength.

    The garden lay at the center of the sect, quite a distance from his residence.

    Broken Sentiment Cliff resembled a valley, with a small stream flowing out from a corner. Jiang Hao¡¯s dwelling was near that corner¡ªquiet and secluded.

    The Spiritual Herb Garden was protected by formations, and its entrance was guarded by two outer disciples at the fifth stage of Qi Refinement¡ªa decent level of cultivation.

    Disciples who reached the eighth stage of Qi Refinement before the age of twenty could enter the inner sect. Jiang Hao had done just that.

    Only upon reaching the Foundation Establishment stage could one secure their position in the inner sect. Those who failed to do so by the age of forty would face contempt, ostracization, and resource deprivation.

    Years ago, Jiang Hao had witnessed such a case.

    At the time, he had just entered the inner sect and saw a forty-year-old disciple at the ninth stage of Qi Refinement being mocked and stripped of resources.

    Out of a na?ve sense of kindness, Jiang Hao secretly gave the man a pill. The recipient had been so shocked that he doubted his own reality.

    Jiang Hao never saw that man again. Rumor had it he took an assignment outside the sect and likely perished there.

 3: Is an Undercover Agent Targeting Me?

    "Senior Brother Jiang."

    The two disciples on guard lowered their heads and greeted.

    With a nod, Jiang Hao stepped forward and entered.

    The spiritual herb garden was vast, with many types of herbs growing around. At the very core of the garden, there was a bed of bright red Nine-Leaf Flowers.

    This flower, called "Broken Heart Grass," normally had no scent. Its fragrance only became apparent when the petals fell. The aroma, rich with spiritual energy, could induce hallucinations and trap one in a state of emotional obsession.

    It could be used to refine three types of pills. The first was the Spirit Gathering Pill, which, when consumed, rapidly absorbed surrounding spiritual energy, accelerating cultivation, making it easier to form a core.

    The second was the Heartbreak Pill, which, when inhaled, suppressed inner demons. Placing one during a breakthrough could increase the success rate by twenty percent, but it was difficult to form the core.

    The third was the Blissful World Pill, which, when consumed, pulled a person into an infinite illusion. If they succeeded in exiting, their cultivation would greatly increase. If they failed, they would die. It was extremely difficult to refine.

    After reviewing the effects of the Broken Heart Grass, Jiang Hao turned his attention to the simple pavilion at the center. That was his destination.

    As a newly promoted inner sect disciple, the responsibility of guarding was naturally his.

    Unlike the guards, his main task was to inspect whether the herbs were healthy. He didn¡¯t need to stay here at night, as some senior brothers and sisters would occasionally come by to keep watch.

    As he passed through the herb fields, Jiang Hao noticed small bubbles floating above some of the herbs.

    Most of the bubbles were white, except for one green bubble. They hovered above the spiritual plants.

    In the past, these bubbles would automatically merge with Jiang Hao¡¯s body.

    At that moment, a prompt would appear on his interface:

    [Strength +1]

    [Endurance +1]

    [Strength +1]

    [Spirit +1]

    [Spirit Gathering Pill +1]

    Jiang Hao remained expressionless. This had happened countless times before.

    This was also why he was eager to become an inner sect disciple. The more places he went, the more benefits he could receive.

    For example, in this spiritual herb garden, as long as he helped plant the herbs, he could keep acquiring such rewards.

    Strength and endurance weren¡¯t shown on the interface; they were automatically absorbed.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    Among disciples of the same rank, his strength far surpassed others.

    Perhaps one day, a casual punch from him could shatter opponents of the same rank.

    ¡°I need a technique or divine power that can conceal my cultivation level.¡±

    Without the ability to hide his cultivation, he was afraid of advancing too quickly¡ªit would make him a target.

    The bubbles came in different colors, and each color represented something of varying quality.

    After careful analysis, he categorized them into four colors: white, green, blue, and purple.

    White was the most ordinary. It represented things like strength and endurance that could be directly absorbed. Green represented ordinary pills or magical tools.

    Blue represented vitality and cultivation, while purple represented divine powers.

    As for anything higher...

    So far, he hadn¡¯t encountered anything beyond that.

    At the foot of the pavilion, a fairy was waiting.

    When Jiang Hao approached, she smiled sweetly, her natural charm evident.

    The Tianyin Sect had twelve main branches, and Broken Heart Cliff was one of them. The woman before him was Yun Ruoxian, an inner sect disciple of the Tianhuan Pavilion.

    Born with an alluring appearance and complemented by her cultivation technique, she always had an uncanny effect on people.

    Unlike righteous sects, those from demonic factions rarely concealed their allure.

    Every time Jiang Hao encountered someone from the Tianhuan Pavilion, he couldn¡¯t help but feel troubled.

    But today...

    Why do I feel so calm? Has my mind become stronger? Jiang Hao was inwardly surprised but didn¡¯t show it. Instead, he respectfully said:

    "Greetings, Senior Sister Yun Ruoxian."

    Yun Ruoxian smiled and replied, "I heard you¡¯re about to break through to foundation-building? To build your foundation at twenty years old, that¡¯s truly impressive."

    "A bit of luck," Jiang Hao didn¡¯t dare to take credit.

    However, seeing the beautiful and seductive Senior Sister, he felt oddly calm. This made him uneasy.

    Is it that her charm isn¡¯t strong enough? Or is there something wrong with me?

    Yun Ruoxian smiled and softly said, "I heard you¡¯re a man of integrity. If you had joined another prestigious sect, you would have been given special attention and care."

    She thinks I¡¯m a good person?

    Upon hearing this, Jiang Hao became wary. He didn¡¯t understand why she said this and quickly responded, "Senior Sister, are you here for the spiritual herbs?"

    "That¡¯s true, but mainly I¡¯m here to congratulate you. I think you¡¯ll be able to advance to foundation-building within a year or two," Yun Ruoxian moved closer to Jiang Hao, her smile full of warmth.

    "Senior Sister flatters me. I¡¯ll go arrange the herbs right away." Taking the list from her, Jiang Hao confirmed there were no issues before turning to leave.

    Just now, Senior Sister exuded a seductive aura. If I weren¡¯t feeling a little off today, it¡¯s hard to say if I could have remained this clear-headed.

    A moment later, he handed the herbs to her.

    "Thank you, Junior Brother. I won¡¯t disturb you any longer today," Yun Ruoxian said with a smile.

    "Senior Sister is too kind." Jiang Hao smiled back, though he thought to himself that it would be best if she didn¡¯t disturb him again in the future.

    At that moment, Yun Ruoxian turned and walked away. After taking two steps, she returned to Jiang Hao¡¯s side and softly whispered in his ear:

    "Junior Brother, if I gave you a chance to join a prestigious immortal sect, would you take it?"

    Jiang Hao was stunned. He looked at her in shock.

    Pfft~

    Yun Ruoxian covered her mouth, laughing softly before saying, "Look at how frightened you are. This is just one of the tactics used by so-called immortal sect disciples. They often use us from the demonic path like this."

    "They would never really offer you such an opportunity."

    "Junior Brother, be careful. Don¡¯t fall for their tricks. Make sure you stay clear-headed."

    With that, Yun Ruoxian lightly walked away.

    "What does she mean? Does it mean I can join if I figure it out? Or is it..." Suddenly, Jiang Hao felt that this Senior Sister was a bit dangerous.

    It seemed like a joke, but it could also be a way of revealing the truth.

    "If she really is an undercover agent from another sect, then have I been targeted? Does she want to pull me in?"

    "No, it¡¯s also possible that the sect is suspicious of me and is testing me."

    "If it¡¯s the former, Yun Ruoxian is in the early stage of foundation-building. If she speaks, I have two choices: refuse and get killed to keep my secret, or agree..."

    "Wouldn¡¯t that put me in a dangerous position?"

    "Better to just continue being a disciple of the demonic path."

    "No, I must first build my foundation."

 4: Learning Divine Powers

    Evening.

    Jiang Hao¡¯s figure moved in and out of the spiritual herb garden. After confirming that everything was fine, he finally left.

    Usually, he would help with the herb processing; otherwise, it would be rare for bubbles to drop the next day.

    When he wasn¡¯t in the herb garden, he relied on luck to collect the bubbles.

    This was why it took him several years to accumulate a hundred vitality and cultivation points.

    It was only after joining the inner sect that he occasionally began to touch upon divine powers.

    It seemed that the better the spiritual herbs, the more likely he was to find good bubbles.

    After returning to his residence, Jiang Hao carefully checked the area, ensuring no one was around, and then entered his cultivation room to begin his practice.

    Today¡¯s encounter with Senior Sister Yun Ruoxian had left him with a sense of inexplicable danger.

    It was always better to stay vigilant.

    He sat cross-legged, simultaneously checking his vitality and cultivation stats.

    When he first entered the sect, he had tested his talent¡ªit was above average. With normal training, he could expect to reach the foundation-building stage around the age of thirty or forty.

    Now, at the age of twenty, it had come much earlier than expected. There should be some bottlenecks, and breaking through both at the same time would be a better approach.

    After a while, a look of pain appeared on Jiang Hao¡¯s face. His vitality surged, and spiritual energy flowed wildly.

    The Tianyin Hundred Turns technique was running at full speed, absorbing vitality and spiritual energy.

    Crack!

    A sound of transformation echoed within Jiang Hao¡¯s body as his blood, flesh, and bones underwent rigorous tempering.

    If he could endure it, he would succeed in foundation-building.

    Crack!

    The transformation lasted for a long time. By dawn, the sound subsided, and his vitality began to calm down, while the spiritual energy flowed smoothly through his meridians, returning to normal.

    Everything was falling into place.

    After completing another cycle of cultivation, Jiang Hao opened his eyes. He could now feel a brand-new energy filling his body.

    ¡°I¡¯ve built my foundation. Everything went smoothly. I¡¯m much safer now.¡±

    He sighed with relief and looked at his system panel. After reaching foundation-building, the panel had displayed new changes.

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 19][Cultivation: Early Foundation-Building][Cultivation Technique: Tianyin Hundred Turns][Divine Power: Nine Turns to Replace Death, Daily Mirror][Vitality: 36/100][Cultivation: 41/100][Divine Power: 1/3]

    ¡°Daily Mirror can be cultivated now, but there¡¯s no reward?¡±

    Initially, when he had acquired the Nine Turns to Replace Death divine power, he had expected that reaching foundation-building would unlock a cultivation technique for him.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.

    While Tianyin Hundred Turns was powerful, it wasn¡¯t a long-term solution. He needed a stronger technique.

    ¡°Never mind. I¡¯ll learn the Daily Mirror first before worrying about the technique later.¡±

    It took half an hour, but Jiang Hao finally mastered the Daily Mirror. What it did, however, remained unclear to him.

    Curious, he stepped out of his residence and used the mirror to assess his wooden house.

    The results came quickly.

    [Jiang Hao¡¯s Small Wooden House: Built three years ago using Qinglin wood. It is strong and durable. Built by Jiang Hao himself, it seems sturdy but has several structural flaws inside and could collapse at any moment.]

    Jiang Hao: "......"

    So it¡¯s just assessment information.

    Once he understood the purpose, he headed to the spiritual herb garden.

    He collected the bubbles and then began to help with the maintenance.

    ¡°Maybe I should learn a bit about architecture and renovate this house.¡±

    In the spiritual herb garden.

    [Strength +1][Spirit +1][Cultivation +1][Common Spiritual Sword +1]

    Jiang Hao walked into the pavilion, absorbing the surrounding bubbles. This was always the most enjoyable time of his day.

    After taking a short break, he began assisting with the herb garden¡¯s management.

    The majority of those tending to the garden were ordinary people.

    In the past, these ordinary people feared the inner sect disciples who guarded the herb garden because a single mistake could result in their death.

    Since Jiang Hao took over, such dangers had vanished.

    This was why others considered Jiang Hao to be a man of integrity.

    While this wasn¡¯t necessarily a good reputation in the demonic sect, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t want to randomly kill ordinary people.

    Fortunately, it hadn¡¯t caused any worse consequences.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t share his foundation-building progress with others.

    Three days later.

    He once again encountered Senior Sister Yun Ruoxian, and it was then that others realized he had reached foundation-building.

    Thankfully, it hadn¡¯t caused any commotion.

    In the days that followed, Yun Ruoxian frequently visited him, simply chatting about trivial matters.

    She would occasionally mention how, in the demonic path, many things were beyond one¡¯s control and how, as a child, she had wanted to be a good person.

    As her visits became more frequent, Jiang Hao¡¯s sense of danger grew.

    During this time, he extracted all his vitality and cultivation points to continue consolidating his cultivation.

    One month later.

    Jiang Hao stepped out of his residence. The sky was clear, yet it failed to bring warmth.

    ¡°These past few days, Senior Sister Yun hasn¡¯t come to find me. I wonder if it¡¯s because nothing is happening, or if it¡¯s a sign of something wrong.¡±

    After thinking for a moment, he headed to the library.

    In this past month, he had discovered something very serious.

    Yun Ruoxian, as a member of the Tianhuan Pavilion, was born with an alluring charm and was considered a beauty of the sect.

    However, no matter how close she got, Jiang Hao felt absolutely no reaction.

    Not only that, when he tried to awaken any reaction, it had no effect whatsoever.

    This felt extremely off.

    Though he was dedicated to his cultivation and didn¡¯t want to be swayed by romantic emotions, it wasn¡¯t about desire¡ªit was about capability.

    This strange situation had only started after meeting Yun Ruoxian. The only possible explanation was that something he had consumed was affecting him.

    He spent two days at the library but couldn¡¯t find any answers.

    However, he did come across a purple bubble.

    [Divine Power Fragment +1]

    A pleasant surprise.

    Another divine power fragment, and he would acquire a new divine power.

    ¡°Lately, it seems like the sect has been auditing the list of disciples. Is something happening?¡±

    Leaving the library, Jiang Hao overheard some people talking.

    It seemed the sect had suddenly started investigating the disciples, like they were searching for someone.

    ¡°Are they looking for a traitor?¡± Jiang Hao immediately thought of Yun Ruoxian.

    After being humiliated by that extraordinary woman, he knew something was bound to happen within the sect.

    But he hadn¡¯t expected that what was happening would pull him into the situation.

    ¡°Senior Sister Yun has been in foundation-building for many years. I have little chance of defeating her if it comes to that.¡±

    Jiang Hao began calculating the worst-case scenario.

    Hopefully, he was just overthinking it.

 5: She Really Is a Traitor

    The next day.

    Jiang Hao followed his usual routine, heading to the Spirit Herb Garden and returning by evening.

    The day was unproductive¡ªhe hadn¡¯t encountered even a handful of basic bubbles.No one had come seeking spiritual herbs, and Senior Sister Yun Ruo didn¡¯t show up either.On his way back, though, he overheard some rumors.

    Apparently, the sect had identified multiple traitors.The cleansing process was already underway.

    "Fortunately, I don¡¯t possess anything of value. Otherwise, desperate traitors might come looking for trouble," Jiang Hao thought with relief as he returned to his quarters.

    He had no intention of becoming a traitor himself, nor did he want to get involved in apprehending them.Both sides were dangerous to provoke.

    Tianyin Sect belonged to the demonic path, a faction despised by the righteous cultivators in the cultivation world. Eventually, the demonic sects would be eradicated.Jiang Hao had no desire to inadvertently attack a traitor, only to discover they were an important pawn of the righteous sects, earning their enmity and ruining his chances of redemption.

    He shook his head and began tending to the spiritual herbs in his courtyard.They were simple healing herbs, useful for enhancing the courtyard¡¯s spiritual energy. If bubbles appeared, that would be a bonus.Unfortunately, high-grade herbs were beyond his reach¡ªhe couldn¡¯t apply for them, nor could he afford them.

    "My cultivation is still too weak. But standing out too much will only invite trouble.""I need to think of a better plan. Perhaps I could claim I encountered a miraculous opportunity during a trip, leading to rapid cultivation progress?""Or I could leave and never return?"

    "Neither option seems wise," Jiang Hao muttered, shaking his head.Leaving the sect was inherently dangerous, and constantly claiming fortuitous encounters wasn¡¯t sustainable. Betraying the sect was even riskier.

    Tianyin Sect showed no mercy toward traitors. Shortly after joining the sect, Jiang Hao had heard about a disciple who was indoctrinated by a righteous sect.Tianyin Sect initially ignored the matter. It wasn¡¯t until ten years later that the traitorous disciple was ambushed and killed during an outing. Only then did others realize Tianyin Sect had waited an entire decade to deal with the defector.

    Lost in thought, Jiang Hao felt overwhelmed. He pushed aside his worries and focused on tending to the herbs.For now, his priority was to continue growing stronger and securing more trump cards.He couldn¡¯t afford to advance his cultivation too quickly, but increasing his physical strength and foundational abilities seemed safe enough. Additionally, he could continue acquiring divine abilities.

    After a while, Jiang Hao finished tending to the herbs and prepared to return to his room to cultivate.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    Just as he took a step, a soft voice called out behind him.

    "Junior Brother."

    Turning around, he saw Senior Sister Yun Ruo, her face slightly pale.

    Seeing her, Jiang Hao felt a sinking feeling in his chest.

    Previously, they had only met in the Spirit Herb Garden. Today, Yun Ruo had come to his residence.This was not a good sign.

    "Senior Sister Yun Ruo, are you here for spiritual herbs?" Jiang Hao asked calmly.

    "May I come inside to talk?" Yun Ruo smiled sweetly.

    Jiang Hao internally refused but didn¡¯t dare to show it. He couldn¡¯t afford to alert her.

    "Please, come in," he said, gesturing politely.

    He remained vigilant. His intuition screamed that something was off. Letting his guard down now could be fatal.

    Inside the room, Yun Ruo¡¯s calm expression turned serious. She fixed her gaze on Jiang Hao and said,"Junior Brother, can I trust you?"

    Then, as if doubting herself, she shook her head and corrected,"No, I should say you¡¯re the only one I can trust."

    "I¡¯ve observed you for years and am certain you¡¯re not a true member of the demonic path."

    Hearing this, Jiang Hao was alarmed. Was she suspecting him of being a spy? Or was she trying to test him?

    Feigning panic, he quickly lowered his head and explained,"Senior Sister, I was raised in Tianyin Sect. I have no other affiliations."

    "I know," Yun Ruo replied. "But I also believe you don¡¯t belong here. Your nature is unsuited for the demonic path.You should join a righteous sect, like the prestigious Luoxia Immortal Sect, which has a legacy spanning ten thousand years and is revered by the world."

    Looking at Jiang Hao earnestly, Yun Ruo continued,"I know you long to leave the darkness and join the light. This is your best chance to do so."

    "Senior Sister, could it be that you..." Jiang Hao stammered, feigning shock.

    Indeed, he was somewhat surprised¡ªYun Ruo was truly a traitor.And now she wanted to drag him down with her.

    "That¡¯s correct," Yun Ruo admitted. "I am a true disciple of Luoxia Immortal Sect, here on a mission.The mission is complete, but I¡¯ve been exposed at a critical moment. I had no choice but to come to you for help. I need you to hide what I¡¯ve obtained and deliver it to my sect.

    This is also your opportunity to join Luoxia Immortal Sect.My rewards will go to you. I know I won¡¯t survive this, but I only ask that you complete my task."

    Yun Ruo appeared resolute, as if prepared for death, her eyes pleading with Jiang Hao.

    Her sincerity was moving, but Jiang Hao didn¡¯t want to get involved.What if this was a trap?

    "I understand your concerns," Yun Ruo said. "How about this: I¡¯ll leave the item with you.If I die, you can decide whether to report me. I¡¯ve already been exposed, and dragging you down serves no purpose for me."

    As she spoke, Yun Ruo retrieved a jade pendant engraved with intricate symbols.One glance was enough to tell it wasn¡¯t ordinary.

    Jiang Hao frowned deeply. Accepting it would spell trouble. Refusing might provoke Yun Ruo to silence him.

    Would a righteous disciple be as ruthless as a demonic one?

    He couldn¡¯t be sure. But one thing was certain¡ªYun Ruo smelled divine.

    "Junior Brother?" Yun Ruo bit her lip, her pitiful expression making her seem trustworthy.

    For a moment, Jiang Hao felt compelled to trust her.But just as he reached out for the jade pendant, his instincts screamed at him to stop.

    In a flash of inspiration, he activated his divine ability, Daily Appraisal.

    "Appraise Senior Sister Yun Ruo."

 6: The Appraisal Results

    The divine skill, Daily Appraisal, had been used by Jiang Hao on countless objects¡ªranging from massive mountains to tiny flowers. However, he had never tried it on a person.

    In his understanding, people were beyond the scope of appraisal. But given the current circumstances, he decided to give it a try. After all, it couldn¡¯t hurt.

    When he activated the skill, invisible runes flickered across his eyes, capturing his senior sister''s figure within their glow.

    In the blink of an eye, a surge of information was transmitted into his mind.

    "Effective," Jiang Hao thought, feeling a spark of hope. He immediately examined the feedback.

    But as soon as he began reading, a chill ran down his spine.

    [Cloud Yue]: Early Foundation Establishment stage. Inner disciple of the Falling Mist Sect. A spy infiltrating Tianyin Sect to search for the whereabouts of the Celestial Fragrance Flower.With her identity on the verge of exposure, she urgently needs a scapegoat. Observing that you lack the demeanor of a demonic sect disciple, she has targeted you as the ideal candidate.Currently employing charm techniques to manipulate your mind, she aims to make you willingly take the fall. Should that fail, she intends to silence you.

    Jiang Hao remained outwardly calm but inwardly cursed."Because I don¡¯t act like a typical demonic sect disciple, I¡¯m marked for death?"

    Before him, the jade pendant was still extended. If he accepted it, he would become her scapegoat; if he refused, she would eliminate him.

    The former was certain death, while the latter would pit him against an experienced Foundation Establishment cultivator with numerous tricks up her sleeve. A direct confrontation offered slim odds of survival.

    As his mind raced, Jiang Hao pretended to reach for the pendant. Just as his fingers were about to touch it, he suddenly widened his eyes and exclaimed in shock:"Master?!"

    Startled, Cloud Yue spun around, a spiritual sword materializing in her hand.

    Not only that, her aura locked onto Jiang Hao, clearly intending to use him as a human shield. The pendant was already out; the first person to die would bear the blame.

    "Master, Jiang Hao is the traitor! He¡ª"

    As Cloud Yue prepared to falsely accuse him and strike, she froze mid-sentence.

    There was no one behind her.

    Realizing she¡¯d been tricked, her heart sank.

    Before she could react, a dagger struck with lightning speed from her side.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Squelch!

    In an instant, the blade pierced her neck.

    Jiang Hao¡¯s sneak attack aimed to kill her outright in a single blow.

    He knew he couldn¡¯t win a head-on fight, so he relied on an ambush to bridge the gap.

    He didn¡¯t wish to harm others unnecessarily. But if someone sought his life, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to retaliate.

    Bang!

    Despite her injuries, Cloud Yue instinctively unleashed a counterattack, forcing Jiang Hao to retreat.

    "You¡­"

    Her voice trembled with shock.

    She had misjudged him entirely. From their interactions, she¡¯d thought him naive, a kind-hearted rookie doomed to perish in a demonic sect. She never imagined that beneath his gentle exterior lay such ruthless decisiveness.

    Jiang Hao offered no response. Drawing his spiritual sword, he advanced to finish the job.

    Cloud Yue, gravely wounded, could only feebly resist.

    Blades clashed in a flurry of sparks, and after a brief but intense exchange, she was sent flying into the courtyard.

    Collapsing on the ground, she clutched her neck and stared at Jiang Hao in terror. Desperation filled her voice:"Junior Brother, you can¡¯t kill me! The Pavilion Master of Heavenly Joy has his eyes on me. If you kill me, he¡¯ll seek revenge!"

    Jiang Hao ignored her pleas. He stepped forward and delivered a decisive slash.

    "I¡¯m also a Falling Mist Sect disciple! My senior brothers adore me! If I die by your hand, they¡¯ll flay you alive¡ª"

    Shing!

    A final strike ended her words.

    All fell silent.

    Thud¡­ Thud¡­

    For good measure, Jiang Hao stabbed a few more times, ensuring she was truly dead.

    Standing over her lifeless body, he felt a pang of discomfort.

    Killing didn¡¯t come naturally to him. But in the demonic sect, discomfort was a luxury he couldn¡¯t afford.

    The cultivation world didn¡¯t offer time to adapt; survival demanded swift action.

    After standing in silence for some time, he confirmed there were no traps or signs of revival. Finally, he stepped out to report the incident to the master of Broken Emotions Cliff¡ªhis own mentor.

    Since he wasn¡¯t a core disciple, his contact with his master was limited to occasional lectures shared with other disciples. Most of his cultivation was self-taught.

    Initially, he hadn¡¯t intended to report the matter. But hiding it would only make him look suspicious¡ªespecially since Cloud Yue¡¯s actions had already drawn attention. If he was deemed an accomplice, the consequences would be dire.

    Soon after, Jiang Hao returned to his courtyard, accompanied by a stern middle-aged man with a weathered face and cold, piercing eyes.

    This was Ku Wu Chang, the master of Broken Emotions Cliff.

    "You killed her?" Ku Wu Chang asked, his voice calm but icy.

    "Yes, Master," Jiang Hao replied with a bow.

    "Explain what happened."

    Jiang Hao recounted the events, omitting only the appraisal skill. He concluded:"I originally planned to subdue her, but when she resisted, I had no choice but to defend myself."

    Ku Wu Chang¡¯s expression remained inscrutable."When did you reach the Foundation Establishment stage?"

    "Last month," Jiang Hao answered nervously.

    "So you resorted to a sneak attack?"

    "Yes."

    "This matter is no longer your concern. If the Enforcement Hall has questions, cooperate with their investigation."

    With that, Ku Wu Chang picked up Cloud Yue¡¯s body and left.

    Watching his master depart, Jiang Hao let out a sigh of relief.

    "I wonder how the Heavenly Joy Pavilion will react. As for the Falling Mist Sect¡­ I¡¯ll just avoid leaving the sect for now.

    Ten or a hundred years should be enough for them to forget Cloud Yue ever existed.

    And if they don¡¯t¡­ by then, I¡¯ll be strong enough to handle it."

 7: Hong Yuye Notices Jiang Haos Name

    Seven days had passed since Jiang Hao killed Senior Sister Yun Ruo.

    During this time, no one came looking for Jiang Hao. He began to realize that his daily appraisal ability was far more powerful than he had initially imagined.

    He secretly used the skill to appraise a few people but didn¡¯t encounter anyone particularly noteworthy, so he avoided wasting its use unnecessarily.

    Notably, Jiang Hao appraised himself recently, uncovering his own condition:

    [Self-Appraisal Result]: Infected with "Heaven¡¯s Ultimate Gu" toxin¡ªYang Gu type. This condition enforces a "Sage State" unless interacting with a woman infected with Yin Gu.

    Upon seeing this result, Jiang Hao sighed deeply. He understood the source of the toxin¡ªit was the meal fed to him by a woman in the past.

    The recent changes in his body were due to this Gu toxin.

    Whether this situation was a blessing or a curse remained uncertain. However, the toxin had its benefits: it rendered him immune to Yun Ruo¡¯s charm technique during their recent encounter.

    Otherwise, the outcome of that confrontation might have been entirely different.

    Many in the Demon Sect were adept at charm techniques. Until his mental fortitude fully developed, this unexpected immunity might actually be advantageous.

    Beauty, after all, was often a man¡¯s greatest weakness.

    Jiang Hao had no intention of testing his own limits; any failure could easily lead to his death.

    Pushing aside his wandering thoughts, Jiang Hao opened his door and set out for the spiritual herb garden.

    Visiting the garden daily made him stronger bit by bit¡ªa routine he was determined not to interrupt.

    However, the moment he stepped outside, three young men blocked his path.

    Each of them exuded a faint killing intent, and their cultivation levels far exceeded his own.

    Sensing danger, Jiang Hao activated his appraisal ability on their leader.

    The man was clad in black, with sharp, sword-like eyebrows, a chiseled face, and striking features¡ªhandsome, by conventional standards.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    [Appraisal Result]: Liu Xingchen¡ªTrue Disciple of the Haotian Sect. Possesses innate dragon-like vigor and is at the late Golden Core stage. Currently undercover in the Tianyin Sect¡¯s Enforcement Hall, assigned to pacify the anger of the Tianhuan Pavilion.

    The information sent waves of shock through Jiang Hao.

    The Haotian Sect, renowned as the mightiest celestial sect, had one of its disciples undercover in the Tianyin Sect? And just because he was bored?

    Suppressing his surprise, Jiang Hao quickly bowed his head in greeting.

    ¡°We are from the Enforcement Hall,¡± Liu Xingchen began coldly. ¡°We¡¯re here to investigate the incident from seven days ago. There are a few questions we need to ask you and some updates to share.¡±

    ¡°Please go ahead, Senior Brother,¡± Jiang Hao responded calmly, though unease crept into his heart.

    The mention of ¡°Tianhuan Pavilion¡¯s anger¡± made him wary.

    ¡°Did you kill Yun Ruo?¡± Liu Xingchen asked.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Jiang Hao admitted.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°She betrayed the sect and attempted to drag me into her schemes. I intended to subdue her but accidentally killed her in the process,¡± Jiang Hao replied, sticking to the story he had previously given.

    ¡°Yun Ruo was affiliated with the Tianhuan Pavilion. Her punishment wasn¡¯t yours to deliver,¡± Liu Xingchen stated coldly. ¡°You violated sect rules by killing her. Considering the circumstances, your punishment is as follows:

    <ol>

    <li>You will be stripped of your cultivation resources for the next five years.</li>

    <li>You must compensate the Tianhuan Pavilion with 1,000 spirit stones within three months.</li>

    <li>As the last person to interact with Yun Ruo, you are under suspicion. You are forbidden to leave the sect until the investigation concludes. Unauthorized departure will be treated as treason.¡±</li>

    </ol>

    Jiang Hao was stunned.

    He had saved the sect from a traitor, yet instead of being rewarded, he was penalized.

    Although he had no issue cooperating with the investigation, the demand for 1,000 spirit stones was crushing.

    As an inner disciple, he only received ten spirit stones per month. Where was he supposed to find 1,000?

    ¡°This is the Demon Sect¡¯s way,¡± Jiang Hao thought bitterly. ¡°Everything is for appearances.¡±

    ¡°Any questions?¡± another disciple asked, his tone icy.

    ¡°No,¡± Jiang Hao replied softly, lowering his head.

    After a few more formalities, the three left, leaving Jiang Hao to his thoughts.

    ¡°Is the Heartless Cliff truly this weak, or am I simply not valued?¡± he murmured. ¡°They¡¯re clearly bullying me. A thousand spirit stones in three months¡ªimpossible.¡±

    He sighed and made his way to the spiritual herb garden.

    Now, not only did he need to focus on cultivation, but he also had to figure out how to earn enough spirit stones to meet this unreasonable demand.

    Tianyin Sect ¡ª Baihua Lake

    At the center of Baihua Lake, on a secluded island, a woman sat silently in a pavilion, gazing at the water. Her flowing red robes and serene demeanor exuded an air of unmatched elegance.

    A breeze stirred as a white-robed figure landed behind her and bowed respectfully.

    ¡°Master,¡± the figure greeted.

    ¡°What is it?¡± the woman asked softly, her voice calm and melodic.

    ¡°I¡¯ve compiled a list of suspicious disciples and known traitors. I¡¯d like you to review it,¡± the figure, Bai Zhi, replied, presenting a scroll.

    The scroll contained detailed records of names, backgrounds, cultivation levels, and suspicious activities.

    Taking the scroll, the woman¡ªHong Yuye¡ªunrolled it and skimmed through the names.

    Most were unfamiliar to her.

    But as her gaze reached the final entry, she paused:

    ¡°Jiang Hao: Inner Disciple of Heartless Cliff. Resides near the stream below the cliff. Recently advanced to the early Foundation Establishment stage.¡±

 8: The Seed of the Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower

    Beneath the Cliff of Unfeeling, Jiang Hao.

    Hong Yuye¡¯s gaze lingered briefly on this name before she closed the list and remarked,"Nothing extraordinary."

    "Most are outer sect disciples. Among the inner sect disciples, only a small handful are traitors or suspects. Their identities and positions are low-ranking. Investigating true disciples and elder enforcers will require more time," Bai Zhi quickly explained.

    The lack of any high-ranking traitors provided some relief but also a sense of unease.

    Logically, if even the sect leader had suspicions, the matter shouldn''t have seemed so clean. Yet nothing significant had surfaced thus far.

    "Some people cannot be exposed without sufficient temptation. They will remain hidden until the right moment," Hong Yuye said calmly. She reopened the list, her gaze settling on Jiang Hao¡¯s name at the bottom. She asked seemingly offhandedly,"What is Jiang Hao''s background on the Cliff of Unfeeling?"

    "His background is remarkably clean. He was sold to the sect at a young age and possesses above-average talent. Recently, however, he became entangled with a traitor from the Heavenly Joy Pavilion.

    "Moreover, his recent cultivation breakthrough is unusual. Despite his middling talent, he experienced a sudden surge in cultivation after a trip outside a few years ago. He claimed to have eaten a peculiar fruit, gaining a fortuitous encounter.

    "More recently, he directly advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage. Normally, this wouldn¡¯t raise suspicion, but he coincidentally killed a traitor. There¡¯s a possibility that the traitor from the Heavenly Joy Pavilion swayed him, even willingly dying by his hand," Bai Zhi explained earnestly.

    "And his usual demeanor?" Hong Yuye asked expressionlessly.

    "He avoids conflict, is mild-mannered, and never speaks harshly to ordinary people. He seems... out of place in the sect," Bai Zhi replied. She initially wanted to say he didn¡¯t seem like someone from the demonic sect but quickly rephrased to avoid offending the leader.

    Hong Yuye remained silent, her expression impassive. After a moment, Bai Zhi spoke again,"The person he killed from the Heavenly Joy Pavilion was naturally alluring and likely used her charms to sway him. While there is no concrete evidence, the suspicion is significant."

    After hearing this, Hong Yuye said suddenly,"Then let us test him¡ªand in doing so, draw out those still lurking in the shadows."

    "Your subordinate does not understand your intent," Bai Zhi replied, bowing her head in slight confusion.

    Moments later, a faint light appeared before her eyes. Startled, she looked up to see a seed the size of a quail egg, black and white in equal measure. As the light faded, the seed appeared ordinary.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    Examining it closely, Bai Zhi¡¯s face changed dramatically."This is..."

    Before she could finish, Hong Yuye interrupted with a chuckle, her tone tinged with amusement."Many would come for this alone. Deliver it to that man on the Cliff of Unfeeling. In due time, those hidden in the shadows will surface."

    "What if he takes it and flees?" Bai Zhi asked, her gaze filled with astonishment.

    "Then that would be your problem, wouldn¡¯t it?" Hong Yuye turned to face her, her expression devoid of emotion.

    Under such a gaze, Bai Zhi¡¯s fear deepened. Not daring to press further, she replied,"Understood. I will carry it out immediately."

    Leaving the Hundred Blossom Lake, Bai Zhi¡¯s earlier trepidation faded, replaced by a sense of confidence and strength.

    Walking through the sect¡¯s forests, she commanded respect from everyone she passed¡ªbe they protectors or elders¡ªwho all bowed and greeted her with reverence.

    This wasn¡¯t just due to her role as the acting representative of the sect leader but also her personal strength.

    Yet despite her outward composure, Bai Zhi was deeply perplexed, especially as she glanced at the seed in her hand.

    "The seed of the Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower... Using something like this to test an inner sect disciple and expose other traitors¡ªdoes it warrant the effort?"

    The answer was undoubtedly no. Such an arrangement likely had deeper implications.

    "Is it because of that disciple, or is there a more formidable traitor among them?"

    With a sigh, Bai Zhi shook off her thoughts.

    The sect leader''s reappearance was unusual. Her sudden focus on traitors, combined with the introduction of this seed, indicated something extraordinary had occurred.

    "The Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower... It¡¯s said to be the source of the sect leader''s strength." Staring at the seed, Bai Zhi couldn¡¯t deny the allure of possessing it.

    If she were to take it, her future might be limitless.

    This thought sent a shiver down her spine. She broke into a cold sweat, realizing that the sect leader¡¯s first test of this seed was aimed at her.

    Determined, Bai Zhi resolved to hand it over swiftly. Any hesitation could spell her downfall.

    Still, finding a reasonable way to pass the seed to an ordinary inner disciple was proving troublesome.

    [Strength +1][Spirit +1][Cultivation +1][Vitality +1][Spiritual Sword +1]

    Walking through the Spirit Medicine Garden, Jiang Hao noticed an increased number of blue orbs drifting toward him compared to before.

    "Today¡¯s harvest was decent. Too bad I can¡¯t collect spirit stones."

    The debt of a thousand spirit stones weighed heavily on him.

    Although he owned a fair amount of low-grade spiritual swords and pills, selling too many would raise suspicions. If he could find higher-quality pills, it might help resolve his predicament.

    "So far, I only have 168 spirit stones. Selling a few swords and pills might barely get me to 200. I¡¯m still short 800."

    "It seems I¡¯ll have to take on some sect missions."

    By midday, after finishing his tasks in the Spirit Medicine Garden, Jiang Hao headed to the base of the Law Enforcement Peak, where sect missions were issued.

    "Well, Jiang junior brother, long time no see. It¡¯s rare to find you away from the Spirit Medicine Garden," a cheerful voice called from behind him.

    Turning, Jiang Hao saw a slightly delicate-looking young man accompanied by a man and a woman. Though young, their cultivation levels were impressive.

 9: Shunned by All

    ¡°Senior Brother Qi.¡±

    Jiang Hao turned and greeted him politely.

    Qi Yang was an inner disciple of Thunderfire Peak, currently at the early Foundation Establishment stage. He had been Jiang Hao¡¯s companion back when they were both outer disciples. Under the same roof, they had a fairly good relationship, though they rarely saw each other after joining different branches.

    ¡°Huh? You¡¯ve already reached Foundation Establishment? That¡¯s fast!¡± Qi Yang exclaimed in surprise as he approached Jiang Hao.

    The two disciples standing nearby were equally astonished. Such a young Foundation Establishment cultivator was rare.

    ¡°Just fortunate,¡± Jiang Hao replied with a faint smile.

    This was the trouble with having no concealment technique; his cultivation level was immediately apparent. He made a mental note to acquire one soon. But for now, his priority was earning enough spirit stones¡ª1,000 to be exact.

    No matter how reluctant he felt, he had to fulfill the compensation. Otherwise, if the Tianhuan Pavilion took action, it would spell certain doom. Not even the Severed Emotion Cliff could shield him then.

    He couldn¡¯t understand why the Tianhuan Pavilion would go to such lengths for an inner disciple who had betrayed them. Was it really, as Senior Sister Yun Ruo suggested, because someone coveted her body? Jiang Hao found that unlikely¡ªYun Ruo wasn¡¯t so stunning as to warrant such measures. Compared to the one who attacked him, her beauty was far inferior.

    ¡°Senior brothers, senior sister, let me introduce you to Jiang Hao,¡± Qi Yang said. ¡°He was my junior when we were both outer disciples.¡±

    ¡°To have two exceptional disciples come from the same place is truly rare,¡± said a nearby man with a friendly smile. ¡°I¡¯m Xu Feng, and this is my junior sister, Liang Yue.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother Xu, Senior Sister Liang.¡± Jiang Hao bowed politely.

    ¡°Which branch are you from, Junior Brother?¡± Liang Yue asked with a smile, clearly interested in befriending him. A young Foundation Establishment cultivator was undoubtedly a talent worth knowing.

    ¡°The Severed Emotion Cliff,¡± Jiang Hao replied.

    Upon hearing this, Xu Feng and Liang Yue were visibly taken aback. ¡°The Severed Emotion Cliff?¡±

    ¡°Junior Brother, do you know who killed Yun Ruo from Tianhuan Pavilion?¡± Xu Feng asked cautiously.

    The abrupt question left Jiang Hao momentarily unsure of how to respond. After a brief pause, he admitted, ¡°It was me.¡±

    At that moment, not only Xu Feng and Liang Yue but even Qi Yang were stunned. Xu Feng and Liang Yue, in particular, subtly began to distance themselves.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.

    After a few more exchanges, Xu Feng led the group away.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t mind. Perhaps it was because the Tianhuan Pavilion had a fearsome reputation. He had no intention of forming too many ties with others, especially in a sect filled with mutual exploitation like this one.

    Yet he couldn¡¯t shake the thought: Why is someone like me, who eliminated a threat to the sect, treated like a criminal instead? Why is everyone avoiding me?

    In a secluded corner.

    ¡°Qi Junior Brother, you¡¯re familiar with Jiang Hao. What do you think of his talent?¡± Xu Feng asked.

    After some thought, Qi Yang replied, ¡°He seems to be above average.¡±

    ¡°Above average?¡± Liang Yue said, surprised. ¡°How old is he?¡±

    ¡°Nineteen, about two years younger than me,¡± Qi Yang answered honestly.

    ¡°Nineteen and already at Foundation Establishment? How did he achieve it with only above-average aptitude?¡± Xu Feng asked the question that was on both their minds.

    ¡°It¡¯s because he had a fortuitous encounter,¡± Qi Yang explained, still curious. ¡°His sudden rise in cultivation was due to that. I suspect his Foundation Establishment is also tied to it. Why, does something seem off?¡±

    Xu Feng and Liang Yue exchanged glances, their expressions subtly changing.

    ¡°Junior Brother, you¡¯d best avoid getting too close to him,¡± Xu Feng advised, his gaze fixed in the direction Jiang Hao had left. ¡°Initially, I was curious why the Severed Emotion Cliff didn¡¯t fully back him. Now it makes sense¡ªhe advanced through a stroke of luck. It means his future path will be challenging, with limited value.

    ¡°He¡¯s offended the Tianhuan Pavilion. Even if he¡¯s fine now, trouble will find him sooner or later. Keeping your distance will spare your master any unnecessary complications.¡±

    Xu Feng had initially wanted to befriend Jiang Hao, despite knowing about his conflict with the Tianhuan Pavilion. After all, a young Foundation Establishment cultivator was undeniably talented¡ªsomeone who could potentially break through barriers others couldn¡¯t.

    But learning that Jiang Hao¡¯s progress was due to a fortuitous encounter changed everything. Xu Feng no longer saw value in the connection and even felt a tinge of disdain.

    Who isn¡¯t a Foundation Establishment cultivator?

    Qi Yang looked in the direction Jiang Hao had gone but chose to remain silent.

    After wandering around, Jiang Hao realized that high-paying tasks either required leaving the sect or had stringent prerequisites. Given his current strength and limitations, he could only take on minor tasks.

    He noticed that alchemy, forging, and talisman crafting were the most lucrative skills. Unfortunately, he knew none of them.

    Should I learn one?

    Alchemy and forging were out of the question¡ªthey were too difficult to start, and obtaining recipes or methods required more spirit stones than he had. Though he had some knowledge of herbs, it wasn¡¯t enough to make a difference.

    That left talisman crafting.

    It was relatively simple to learn, and the techniques were readily available.

    ¡°I¡¯ll buy some materials and give it a try.¡±

    With this decision made, Jiang Hao planned to take on a simple task to earn some spirit stones. Accumulating wealth bit by bit, while slow, was better than wasting time.

    He accepted a task to care for Pure Yang Flowers. The job paid 20 spirit stones for seven days of work¡ªa decent reward, albeit with strict requirements. Fortunately, Jiang Hao¡¯s experience in the herb garden made him a suitable candidate.

    The task originated from White Moon Lake, an area renowned for its talented cultivators and overseen by a guardian elder. Jiang Hao had never met this elder before.

    Elders like the guardian elder, instructional elder, peak masters, or pavilion masters were figures he rarely, if ever, encountered¡ªeven his own master, the Severed Emotion Cliff¡¯s peak master, was a distant figure.

    ¡°First, I¡¯ll buy some talisman crafting materials and instructions, then head over to White Moon Lake to assess the situation.¡±

    Pure Yang Flowers are said to be sacred herbs. Perhaps caring for them will yield some valuable rewards.

    If the flowers produced spirit stones, Jiang Hao¡¯s financial woes might finally ease.

 10: I Was Just Too Naive

    Bai Yue Lake.

    Located in a high position within the Tianyin Sect, Bai Yue Lake is abundant in spiritual energy, higher than in other areas.

    Entering here, one''s cultivation speed would be faster than in other main veins.

    This place is filled with geniuses, and very few disciples are accepted.

    The Duanqing Cliff, on the other hand, is located lower, with slightly lower entry requirements. Although many people reside there, only a few are famous.

    "Huff, I¡¯m here."

    After purchasing the necessary tools for making talismans, Jiang Hao arrived at Bai Yue Lake, feeling quite emotional.

    If it weren¡¯t for provoking Tianhuan Pavilion, he thought Duanqing Cliff would have been just fine.

    Shaking his head, he found the guard and explained his purpose.

    "Take care of the Pure Yang Flower?" The guard fairy looked at Jiang Hao and carefully examined him before asking, "Do you have experience with this?"

    "I am Jiang Hao, an inner disciple of Duanqing Cliff. I¡¯ve worked in the spirit herb garden for a few years," Jiang Hao replied honestly.

    "Then follow me." The guard fairy gestured for him to follow.

    "I¡¯ll remind you that the Pure Yang Flower is about to bloom, which is why it needs to be watched over. This is not an easy task. If you don¡¯t do it well, there will be punishments," she added kindly, her simple bun giving her a composed appearance.

    "Thank you for the reminder, Senior Sister. I understand," Jiang Hao thanked her with a glance.

    This senior sister¡¯s eyes were clear, not exceptionally beautiful, but her appearance was quite pleasant.

    At least she was much more natural than Senior Sister Yun Ruo.

    She wasn¡¯t cold, nor was she pretending to be friendly, giving the impression of someone somewhat innocent.

    It turned out that not all people from the demonic sect looked as fierce as they seemed.

    As for her true nature, Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t figure it out. "You can know a person¡¯s face, but not their heart."

    "My surname is Zhou, and I¡¯m Zhou Chan. Since you¡¯ve accepted this task, you¡¯ll need to come here every day. When the time comes, just find me, and I¡¯ll let you in," Zhou Chan said as she led Jiang Hao to a courtyard.

    With Senior Sister Zhou¡¯s guidance, Jiang Hao met the caretaker of the courtyard.

    Elder Qianxu, a middle-aged beauty in a blue fairy gown that reached the floor, with a light blue belt at her waist and a sheer cloak draped over her shoulders.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    Her expression was neutral, giving off a cold air. She was the deacon elder of Bai Yue Lake.

    Jiang Hao muttered inwardly, "She looks like someone who would act like you owe her money."

    But he didn¡¯t dare speak these words out loud.

    A moment later, Jiang Hao saw a white spiritual herb occupying a large portion of the land. Its surroundings seemed to be covered with white frost.

    At the edge of the frost was a red gourd, from which a hot aura radiated.

    "The gourd contains magma. Your task is to pour magma at the edge of the white frost every half an hour after noon, six times a day," Elder Qianxu said as she looked at Jiang Hao and continued, "It¡¯s getting late today. You can start tomorrow."

    "Understood." Jiang Hao respectfully agreed and then left.

    Back at his dwelling, he looked at his status board.

    [Name: Jiang Hao]

    [Age: 19]

    [Cultivation: Early Foundation Establishment]

    [Cultivation Method: Tianyin Hundred Turns]

    [Divine Ability: Nine Turns to Replace Death (Unique), One Inspection per Day]

    [Vitality: 16/100 (Can be cultivated)]

    [Cultivation: 20/100 (Can be cultivated)]

    [Divine Ability: 2/3 (Cannot be obtained)]

    "Although the numbers are small, they are growing quickly."

    "Maybe it won¡¯t take long to advance to the mid-foundation stage. But the 1,000 spirit stones are a bit of a hassle. I¡¯ll have to see if I can earn some spirit stones from making talismans."

    Making talismans, alchemy, forging.

    Talismans had the lowest entry requirements but were the cheapest. Unless one could make intermediate or advanced talismans, it wasn¡¯t worth much.

    The quickest way to earn spirit stones was still through alchemy.

    However, the entry requirement for alchemy was high, and it involved significant investment and time.

    In the room, Jiang Hao took out the newly bought talisman-making guide and started reading.

    The guide recorded twelve types of talismans.

    The simplest was the Swift Travel Talisman, which increased speed.

    There were also the Calm Heart Talisman and Fire Talisman.

    These three talismans were necessary for Qi cultivation.

    At the Foundation Establishment stage, one could fly on a sword, solidify the mind, and perform spells effortlessly.

    So normally, there was no need for these lower-level talismans.

    However, these three were the best for practice. As for their price...

    Three talismans combined could barely sell for a spirit stone.

    You¡¯d need about six to make a profit.

    This wouldn¡¯t earn a lot of money, so he had to aim higher.

    After reading through the Swift Travel Talisman-making method, Jiang Hao sat cross-legged and calmed his mind. After a long while, his state reached its peak.

    Then, he picked up the talisman brush, dipped it in cinnabar, and began making talismans.

    Each stroke was steady and forceful, flowing smoothly as spiritual energy formed on the talisman paper.

    After some time, the last stroke slowly fell.

    The talisman glowed faintly and then returned to normal.

    "Done?"

    "It was that easy?"

    Thinking about it, for a Foundation Establishment cultivator like himself making Qi cultivation talismans, if he kept failing, that would be the real problem.

    He spent the entire night practicing Swift Travel Talismans, Calm Heart Talismans, and Fire Talismans.

    When all the materials were exhausted, he stopped making talismans.

    "Thirty-one in total. After subtracting the cost, I can earn three spirit stones."

    "Three spirit stones in one night. In a month, that¡¯s ninety. In three months, that¡¯s two hundred seventy. If I add in the daytime hours, that¡¯s five hundred forty."

    Jiang Hao calculated carefully and found there was hope to gather 1,000 spirit stones.

    As long as Tianhuan Pavilion didn¡¯t do anything over the next three months, he should be able to pay the 1,000 spirit stones within the deadline.

    However...

    After going to sell the talismans, he realized his thinking was too naive.

    These talismans indeed sold for six for one spirit stone.

    But there was little demand.

    He had to wait for a long time to sell even one spirit stone, and he couldn¡¯t even cover his costs.

    With a sigh, Jiang Hao had no choice but to buy more materials and try again tonight to practice the talismans needed for Foundation Establishment.

    The next day, he returned to Bai Yue Lake to begin taking care of the Pure Yang Flower.

 11: Obtaining the Fragment of Divine Power

    Once again, Jiang Hao arrived at Bai Yue Lake, and the guide was still Senior Sister Zhou.

    For half a day, Jiang Hao spent the time pouring magma as scheduled.

    He had expected something to happen when he poured it in, but it turned out to be just like watering plants; it sank into the ground and alleviated the frost.

    It seemed the soil here was not as simple as it appeared.

    For the next few days, Jiang Hao repeated the same tasks.

    He made talismans at night, helped in the spiritual herb garden in the morning, and sold talismans at the market. By noon, he began tending to the Pure Yang Flower.

    This cycle continued.

    It¡¯s worth mentioning that after he started tending to the Pure Yang Flower, he began receiving blue bubbles every day.

    [Cultivation +1]

    [Vitality +1]

    In the spiritual herb garden, most of the bubbles were white or green.

    [Strength +1]

    [Spirit +1]

    [Solid Qi Pill +1]

    The harvest was much greater than before, especially in cultivation and vitality, both of which increased every day.

    If he kept tending to the Pure Yang Flower, he would reach the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment within three months. He would just need to figure out how to hide his cultivation level.

    During this time, to avoid any mistakes, he always checked the status of the Pure Yang Flower.

    Usually, the answer was the same.

    [Pure Yang Flower: A sacred healing herb, main ingredient in the Mingyang Pill, nearly mature, in good condition.]

    Occasionally, there would be a different result.

    [Pure Yang Flower: A sacred healing herb, main ingredient in the Mingyang Pill, nearly mature, in poor condition, too cold, requires more magma.]

    Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t sure by how much to increase the magma, so he added just a little more, hoping it would work.

    Afterward, he regretted it because if something went wrong, it would be his fault.

    Fortunately, there had been no issues.

    However, making talismans wasn¡¯t going smoothly.

    Basic talismans were useless, so he began crafting more advanced ones, such as the Spirit Gathering Talisman, which helped Foundation Establishment cultivators improve their cultivation state.

    Its effect was moderate, so it was worth five spirit stones each.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    Unfortunately, it took him two days to successfully craft one, and that was barely enough.

    Besides the Spirit Gathering Talisman, he also made the Flame Talisman, which had a decent power¡ªthough weaker than that of Foundation Establishment, it was still effective. It cost three spirit stones per talisman.

    Sadly, despite being cheap, it was just as difficult to make as the Spirit Gathering Talisman.

    The third type was the Divine Sword Talisman, which sounded impressive but only increased sword control speed.

    It also cost five spirit stones per talisman.

    The difficulty was a bit higher.

    After six days, Jiang Hao had only managed to break even with his talisman-making. Fortunately, there was still time.

    As long as he could increase his success rate, he would make a profit in the long run¡ªbut he didn¡¯t have time to focus on cultivation.

    Still, he was collecting cultivation points daily, so the lack of active cultivation didn¡¯t affect him much.

    For others, however, the impact would be significant.

    That¡¯s why only those with good talent would engage in pill refining and talisman making. Without enough talent, it would just waste precious cultivation time.

    In the demonic sect, lacking enough cultivation was dangerous, even if one could make pills.

    ¡°Junior Brother Jiang, you¡¯re here at the same time every day,¡± Senior Sister Zhou said with a smile.

    ¡°Mm, I don¡¯t dare to slack off,¡± Jiang Hao replied with a barely noticeable nod.

    After several visits, Senior Sister Zhou was still friendly, even a bit familiar.

    ¡°Be careful today. Elder Qianxu is in a bad mood. Tomorrow is the last day, so don¡¯t cause any trouble,¡± she kindly reminded him.

    Jiang Hao quickly nodded. ¡°Thank you for the reminder, Senior Sister.¡±

    This reminder might not mean much to her, but it was quite important to him.

    Knowing the elder''s mood would help him handle the situation better.

    He gave a quick report at the courtyard entrance, then proceeded to the Pure Yang Flower area alone.

    However, when he arrived, he was slightly stunned.

    He had expected to just collect blue bubbles, but today, there were no blue bubbles at all.

    Instead, a purple bubble was quietly floating near the Pure Yang Flower.

    ¡°A purple bubble... that¡¯s strange,¡± Jiang Hao thought.

    He had worked in the spiritual herb garden for a long time and had never seen a purple bubble appear in the middle of the day. Usually, only the best bubbles appeared at the beginning or end.

    The end?

    He thought about it for a moment and then activated his divine power to examine it.

    ¡°Just as I expected¡­¡±

    [Pure Yang Flower: A sacred healing herb, main ingredient in the Mingyang Pill, now fully matured.]

    The Pure Yang Flower was different from other spiritual herbs¡ªit didn¡¯t have a growth cycle with years attached. Once it matured, it had to be harvested, or it would wither and regrow, waiting for the next maturity phase.

    Though Jiang Hao didn¡¯t understand why it matured early, he didn¡¯t dare delay.

    After collecting the purple bubble, he quickly sought out Elder Qianxu.

    At that moment, the bubble merged into his body.

    [Fragment of Divine Power +1]

    Seeing this, Jiang Hao quickly checked his status panel.

    [Divine Power: 3/3 (Obtainable)]

    ¡°Finally, another divine power is coming.¡±

    Suppressing his excitement, Jiang Hao arrived at the courtyard and softly spoke:

    ¡°Junior Brother Jiang, I have something important to report.¡±

    Creak!

    The door opened, and Elder Qianxu appeared, looking somewhat displeased.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    As expected, she wasn¡¯t in a good mood. Jiang Hao sighed inwardly. If it weren¡¯t for the importance of the matter, he wouldn¡¯t want to risk making her upset. He gathered his thoughts and lowered his head to speak:

    ¡°Today, when I came to tend to the Pure Yang Flower, I noticed something unusual. It seems to be showing signs of maturity, so¡­¡±

    Before he could finish, Elder Qianxu disappeared from her spot.

    Seeing this, Jiang Hao realized that Elder Qianxu wasn¡¯t taking it lightly either. He quickly followed her towards the Pure Yang Flower area.

    After a short while, Jiang Hao saw Elder Qianxu harvesting the Pure Yang Flower.

    He let out a breath of relief. This task was finally completed, and though there were some surprises, everything turned out fine.

    The rewards were much greater than he had expected. Twenty spirit stones were nothing, but the real gain was the fragment of divine power.

    ¡°You do have some ability,¡± Elder Qianxu said as she put away the Pure Yang Flower and looked at Jiang Hao with approval.

    ¡°It was just a guess, relying mostly on Elder Qianxu,¡± Jiang Hao humbly complimented.

    ¡°Your abilities are unquestionable. Come, I¡¯ll take you to meet the flower¡¯s master.

    Remember to be sharp¡ªthere might be something to gain.¡± Elder Qianxu said seriously.

    He was going to meet the Protector Elder? Jiang Hao felt uneasy¡ªthis was his first time meeting such a person.

 12: As If Guided by Divine Forces

    By the shores of White Moon Lake, Jiang Hao followed behind Elder Qian Xu.

    As they walked, he glanced at the calm lake surface and noticed the dense spiritual energy permeating the area. Cultivating here would undoubtedly yield twice the result with half the effort.

    The contrast between this place and Duanqing Cliff was stark.

    Before long, they arrived at a courtyard by the lake. The moment Jiang Hao saw it, an indescribable feeling washed over him. It was as though he stood before a slumbering beast, yet the courtyard also exuded an ethereal charm, akin to a paradise on earth.

    ¡°Come in.¡±

    A calm yet authoritative voice emerged from within.

    Upon entering the courtyard, Jiang Hao was greeted by the sight of an incomparably beautiful woman in white. Her simple bun framed a serene and noble demeanor as she sat gracefully in a pavilion.

    The sheer force of her aura left Jiang Hao momentarily awestruck.

    Only after Elder Qian Xu gently reminded him did Jiang Hao hurriedly bow and greet her:¡°This junior, Jiang Hao, pays respects to the Elder.¡±

    Elder Qian Xu then presented the Pure Sunflower and explained the purpose of their visit.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Bai Zhi¡¯s gaze lingered on Jiang Hao, a faint smile curving her lips.¡°It seems you have some skill. Coincidentally, I have a task for you. Accomplish it, and there will naturally be rewards for you.¡±

    An empty promise, Jiang Hao sighed inwardly.

    ¡°And if you fail, you know what consequences await,¡± Bai Zhi said with a smile.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Jiang Hao nodded.

    Casting a sidelong glance at the Elder, Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t help but feel a mixture of helplessness and absurdity.

    Twice now, his contributions had been overshadowed by implicit threats.

    This Demonic Sect truly operated without rhyme or reason.

    After some time, Jiang Hao emerged from the courtyard with a seed in hand.

    Senior Sister Zhou Chan later escorted him away from White Moon Lake.

    What surprised Jiang Hao most was the identity of this Elder.

    Bai Zhi was one of the sect¡¯s Four Guardian Elders, the acting Sect Leader of the Tianyin Sect, and wielded absolute power over life and death.

    When he learned this from Senior Sister Zhou, Jiang Hao could scarcely believe it.

    The stunning Elder he had just encountered turned out to be the acting Sect Leader, second only to the Sect Master in authority?

    When had he ever been so fortunate as to meet such a person?

    Still, this caretaking task wasn¡¯t without its perks. Elder Qian Xu had rewarded him with forty spirit stones¡ªdouble the usual amount.

    As for the seed¡­ its purpose was puzzling.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    When Bai Zhi handed him the seed, she merely instructed him to plant it.

    No precautions, no specific outcomes to achieve, no criteria for success or failure.

    This was highly unusual.

    ¡°As the acting Sect Leader, why ask me to plant this seed? There should be plenty of people more capable than me¡­¡±

    ¡°There must be more to this. Asking me to plant it might serve another purpose.¡±

    Curious, Jiang Hao decided to appraise the seed to uncover its true nature.

    But that would have to wait until tomorrow.

    After all, his ability ¡°Daily Appraisal¡± could only be used once per day.

    And so, he had no choice but to wait.

    Fortunately, despite Bai Zhi¡¯s unparalleled beauty, Jiang Hao¡¯s heart remained as calm as still water.

    Yet he could take no comfort in this.

    This curse-like venom¡ªhe had no idea when or if it would ever be broken.

    As for the woman who had cursed him¡­ avoiding her was undoubtedly the safest option, as she was far too dangerous.

    That afternoon, Jiang Hao returned to his quarters.

    After meditating briefly, he opened his status panel.

    [Name]: Jiang Hao[Age]: Nineteen[Cultivation]: Early Foundation Establishment[Techniques]: Tianyin Hundred Reincarnations[Divine Abilities]: Ninefold Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal[Vitality]: 27/100 (Trainable)[Cultivation]: 32/100 (Trainable)[Divine Abilities]: 3/3 (Obtainable)

    Both his vitality and cultivation had increased significantly, bringing him closer to the cap of one hundred.

    The most notable change, however, was the last line: his divine abilities were at their maximum, allowing him to obtain a new one.

    After ensuring his surroundings were safe, Jiang Hao chose to acquire a new divine ability.

    In an instant, the number of divine abilities dropped from three to zero, and a radiant light emerged within his body. Something was forming.

    There was no pain¡ªonly a sense of comfort, coolness, and clarity.

    Feeling the changes within, Jiang Hao knew this was the influence of a new divine ability.

    When he had obtained ¡°Daily Appraisal,¡± the experience had been vastly different.

    Moments later, the light dissipated, and the soothing sensation faded. Observing the panel again, he saw a new divine ability listed.

    [Divine Abilities]: Ninefold Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Clear Mind and Pure Heart

    ¡°Clear Mind and Pure Heart?¡±

    Jiang Hao could sense the ability¡¯s presence but had no idea what it did.

    ¡°Let¡¯s test it.¡±

    After a brief moment of thought, he activated the ability.

    Instantly, he felt as though a bucket of ice water had been poured over him, washing through his entire being. His body felt cold yet invigorated.

    Each breath carried the chill deep into his mind.

    A newfound clarity emerged in his consciousness, as though every impurity in his brain had been thoroughly cleansed.

    His thoughts became sharp and vivid, like standing atop a lofty peak.

    The sensation took Jiang Hao by surprise¡ªit was unexpectedly pleasant.

    Surveying his surroundings, everything seemed clearer, more detailed.

    It was as if his mind was eager to absorb new knowledge.

    Inspired, he retrieved a manual on talisman crafting.

    When he revisited the ¡°Focus Talisman¡± section, newfound insights emerged.

    A spark of understanding ignited in his mind.

    For the first time, he didn¡¯t need to calm himself to start crafting a talisman.

    Before long, he stood at his desk.

    Picking up the talisman brush, he dipped it in cinnabar and began to craft.

    The brush flowed effortlessly under his control, each stroke smooth and precise.

    It felt as though he were guided by divine forces.

    Finally, the last stroke was completed. Light flashed briefly before the talisman returned to its inert state.

    The talisman was complete.

    ¡°This divine ability came at just the right time.¡±

    Setting down the brush, Jiang Hao beamed with satisfaction.

    He spent the rest of the night crafting talismans.

    Using ten sets of materials, he successfully crafted five talismans: two Focus Talismans, two Spirit Sword Talismans, and one Flame Talisman.

    After deducting costs, he could profit by more than ten spirit stones.

    And this was just the beginning. With time, his success rate would only improve.

    In less than two months, he might accumulate a thousand spirit stones.

    ¡°Good progress, but exhausting.¡±

    Seated on his balcony, Jiang Hao watched the sunrise with weary eyes.

    Taking out the seed, he noted that today was the perfect time to appraise it.

 13: The Legendary Purple-Gold

    "My heavens! Did Elder Bai Zhi just hand me a bomb?"

    Sitting on the balcony, Jiang Hao stared at the black-and-white seed, no larger than a quail egg, in utter shock.Unconsciously, cold sweat began to trickle down his back.

    He had identified the seed he received yesterday, and the result left him stunned:

    [Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower Seed: At the dawn of creation, a flower bloomed amidst the chaos. Over countless ages, as heaven and earth were separated, the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower bore fruit, dropping seeds. This is one of them. Plant it in soil, water it once a day with one bowl of water, and it will sprout in seven days.]

    Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower... Jiang Hao had seen this name before¡ªnot in any books, but through one of his identifications.

    It was precisely the reason Senior Sister Yun Ruo had infiltrated Tianyin Sect.In fact, other traitors and spies were likely here for the same purpose.

    "Now that the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower is in my hands, won''t I become everyone''s target?Once it sprouts, I''ll have to be on guard day and night.But if I don''t plant it... can I endure Elder Bai Zhi''s wrath?"

    For a moment, Jiang Hao felt like bait dangled on a hook.

    With a heavy sigh, he shook his head in resignation. Just when he thought he''d made some progress and managed to avoid danger temporarily, this ultimate trump card landed in his lap.

    "The Demon Sect is truly not a place for humans."

    Resolutely, Jiang Hao went to his courtyard, found a good spot, and planted the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower seed.He glanced at the nearby fence and thought about reinforcing it with stones to keep the plant hidden from prying eyes.

    After planting the seed, he poured a bowl of water over it without worrying too much about the bowl''s size.

    "Guess I''ll take it one step at a time. If worst comes to worst, I can still rely on my substitute death ability to escape."

    Afterward, Jiang Hao left the courtyard and headed to the spirit herb garden to collect today''s bubbles.

    He found two blue bubbles.

    [Cultivation +1][Vitality +1][Strength +1][Spirit +1][Endurance +1]

    As time went on, Jiang Hao could feel himself becoming physically stronger.If this daily planting and harvesting routine continued, he couldn''t help but wonder how powerful his strength and spirit might become in the future.

    For now, he was slightly above others in his cultivation level.

    At noon, after tending to some spirit herbs in the garden, Jiang Hao went to the sect market to set up a stall.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    This time, everything went smoothly¡ªall five of his Foundation Establishment-level talismans sold.The total price was 21 spirit stones, netting him a profit of 11 spirit stones after deducting costs.

    The buyer was a Foundation Establishment mid-stage senior sister. Her facial features were sharp and stern, and while not a beauty by sect standards, she was a commanding presence.

    "How many more Flame Talismans do you have?" she asked.

    "How many does Senior Sister need?" Jiang Hao replied.

    "Fifty within three days," the woman, named Leng Tian, said seriously.

    Jiang Hao shook his head regretfully."That''s not possible."

    Even if he had a perfect success rate, crafting talismans required time and spiritual energy¡ªespecially after activating his divine ability.

    "In three days, I want as many as you can make, up to fifty. Here''s an advance payment," Leng Tian said, tossing ten spirit stones to Jiang Hao.

    "I''ll do my best," Jiang Hao nodded.

    Although other talismans might be more profitable, the ability to sell them quickly was equally important. As long as his success rate improved, this deal would be worthwhile.

    Over the next few days, Jiang Hao focused solely on crafting talismans.With no afternoon tasks, he dedicated all his free time to the work, attempting to craft fifteen talismans a day.

    On the first day, he succeeded in making eight. On the second day, nine. On the third day, ten.By the end of three days, he had produced 27 Flame Talismans, earning him a total of 81 spirit stones. After deducting costs, his profit was 36 spirit stones.

    With his accumulated savings, he now had 250 spirit stones¡ªnearly one-third of his goal in just under two weeks.

    Four days later, sales slowed slightly, but he still managed to earn over ten spirit stones daily.Eventually, his savings reached the 300-mark, completing a third of his goal.

    At this pace, barring any unforeseen events, he could gather 1,000 spirit stones soon.

    Relieved, Jiang Hao finally felt a weight lift off his shoulders.

    In his courtyard, Jiang Hao also rebuilt the fence, concealing the view inside.

    Nighttime.

    Jiang Hao was still crafting talismans when an unexpected phenomenon occurred.Just as he was about to complete a talisman, an invisible wave of spiritual energy swept through, causing the talisman to ignite spontaneously.

    Startled, Jiang Hao immediately realized the source of the disturbance was in his courtyard.

    "Seven days... has the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower sprouted already?"

    Jiang Hao had been keeping track of the timeline but hadn¡¯t anticipated any anomalies.

    Rushing to the balcony, he saw faint ripples of invisible energy sweeping through his courtyard like gusts of wind.

    Fortunately, the disturbance hadn''t spread beyond the yard; otherwise, he would be in serious trouble. After all, countless spies were eyeing this flower.

    The disturbance soon subsided. Jiang Hao then noticed a tiny sprout breaking through the soil, swaying gently in the breeze.

    While this in itself wasn¡¯t too surprising, what followed left him utterly shocked.

    As the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower sprouted, the spiritual energy dissipated, and a purple-gold bubble materialized above it.

    This bubble was unique¡ªdistinctly different from any other bubbles Jiang Hao had ever seen.

    Purple-gold...

    What could it be?

    For a moment, Jiang Hao was filled with anticipation.

    With the first light of dawn, Jiang Hao leapt from the balcony into the courtyard, approaching the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    The purple-gold bubble rose into the air and merged into his body.

    [Purple-Gold Legend +1]

 14: The Primordial Heart Sutra

    Purple-Gold Legend?

    Jiang Hao was astonished by this unexpected gain.

    This was the first time he''d encountered a bubble without a clear label.

    He glanced around, carefully observing the tiny sprout in the soil. Apart from its two small leaves, there didn¡¯t seem to be anything unusual. After surveying the area for a while longer, he noticed the surroundings were peaceful with the first rays of sunlight spreading across the courtyard.

    Once he was certain that no one had noticed anything, Jiang Hao returned to his room and opened the panel.

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 19][Cultivation: Foundation Establishment (Initial Stage)][Techniques: Tianyin Hundred Turns][Divine Abilities: Nine Lives Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Empty Mind Clear Heart][Vitality: 34/100 (Trainable)][Cultivation: 39/100 (Trainable)][Divine Ability Points: 0/3 (Unavailable)][Purple-Gold Legend: 1/1 (Claimable)]

    "It¡¯s claimable? This is definitely unusual."

    Jiang Hao paused, washed his hands, and prepared himself mentally. The items gained from such events were always random, but purple-gold was the highest grade he¡¯d ever seen.

    He selected Claim with anticipation.

    A flash of purple-gold light engulfed him, and a profound text imprinted itself into his mind.

    Moments later, Jiang Hao discerned four glowing words at the core of the text: Primordial Heart Sutra.

    The sutra revealed itself to be an ancient scripture from the dawn of time, born of the primordial chaos. It spoke of the purple energy that enveloped the heavens, giving rise to all creation.

    Jiang Hao sat still for a long time, comprehending its mysteries.

    Eventually, he understood the basics: the Primordial Heart Sutra was a cultivation technique of unparalleled profundity.

    By practicing it, he could generate Primordial Purple Qi, which would veil his inner energy from detection.

    "So, I¡¯ve gained not only a powerful cultivation method but also a way to conceal my aura?"

    Overjoyed, Jiang Hao returned to the courtyard and gazed at the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower. Truly, great opportunities always came with great risks.

    Still, with enough time, he believed he could significantly mitigate these dangers.

    By noon, Jiang Hao finished his daily tasks in the spirit herb garden and returned immediately to the courtyard.

    After ensuring the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower was fine, he began practicing the Primordial Heart Sutra, transitioning away from the Tianyin Hundred Turns technique.

    With this new sutra, his existing energy became infused with a faint layer of purple mist, though he could still present it as Tianyin Hundred Turns when needed.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    This versatility amazed Jiang Hao.

    In just one night, he successfully transitioned to the Primordial Heart Sutra.

    Although his cultivation level remained the same, he felt much stronger.Should he encounter Senior Sister Yun Ruo again, he was confident he could face her with far greater ease.

    Empowered by his newfound strength, Jiang Hao was eager to accumulate 100 cultivation points and advance further.

    At Dawn.

    Jiang Hao stepped into the courtyard and was greeted by a faint, enchanting fragrance emanating from the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower. The aroma was refreshing and soothing.

    To his delight, he noticed two blue bubbles near the sprout.

    [Cultivation +1][Vitality +1]

    This discovery filled him with excitement. Without the support of the Net Yang Flower, his cultivation had slowed significantly. Now, with the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower, he could accelerate his progress and quickly reach 100 cultivation points.

    However, he wasn¡¯t entirely sure how to care for the flower moving forward. After some hesitation, he activated his Daily Appraisal ability.

    [Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower Sprout: At the dawn of creation, a flower bloomed amidst the chaos. Over countless ages, it bore fruit, dropping seeds. This is the sprout of one such seed. Water it once daily with one bowl of water, and it will grow faster.]

    "The appraisal has slightly updated, but it¡¯s still one bowl of water per day."

    After watering the sprout, Jiang Hao prepared himself and left the courtyard.

    From today, he would focus on earning the 1,000 spirit stones he needed.

    Just as he stepped out, he was met by an unexpected visitor¡ªLiu Xingchen, from the Enforcement Hall.

    Why is this undercover agent here again? Jiang Hao¡¯s thoughts raced as he tried to deduce Liu Xingchen¡¯s intentions.

    Although Liu Xingchen usually acted carefree, Jiang Hao suspected he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to take the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower if given the chance.

    "Junior Brother Jiang, I need to speak with you about something," Liu Xingchen said, his expression unreadable.

    "Please go ahead, Senior Brother," Jiang Hao replied courteously.

    Liu Xingchen was a late-stage Golden Core cultivator. If he decided to target Jiang Hao, resistance would be futile.

    "Let¡¯s talk inside," Liu Xingchen gestured toward the courtyard and stepped in without waiting for an invitation.

    Jiang Hao hesitated but followed cautiously, ready to flee at the slightest sign of trouble.If Liu Xingchen was here for the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower, escape would be inevitable sooner or later.

    "You seem to enjoy cultivating spirit herbs," Liu Xingchen remarked, glancing around the courtyard.

    He briefly looked at the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower but didn¡¯t linger, much to Jiang Hao¡¯s relief.

    After a moment, Liu Xingchen turned to Jiang Hao and asked, "Do you know why you¡¯ve been ordered to pay 1,000 spirit stones in compensation?"

    "Because I offended the Tianhuan Pavilion?" Jiang Hao ventured.

    "A mere inner disciple like you¡ªwhy do you think Tianhuan Pavilion would care so much?" Liu Xingchen pressed.

    What¡¯s he getting at? Jiang Hao wondered but carefully responded, "Perhaps because Senior Sister Yun Ruo charmed one of their elders?"

    "That¡¯s partly correct, but there¡¯s more to it," Liu Xingchen said, lowering his voice after ensuring no one was around.

    "The Tianhuan Pavilion Master¡¯s cultivation technique requires a special individual with a natural charm physique as a cauldron to break through bottlenecks.

    By sheer coincidence, their master has recently reached such a bottleneck, and Yun Ruo happens to possess the perfect physique for this purpose.

    When we discovered Yun Ruo was a traitor, we immediately informed Tianhuan Pavilion, which made her suspicious.

    On the day we were about to apprehend her, she sought you out.

    We initially planned to capture her alive, but due to unforeseen circumstances, you killed her instead.

    Now, tell me, how do you think Tianhuan Pavilion¡¯s master feels about this?"

 15: Encounter with the Demoness Again

    Hearing those words, Jiang Hao fell silent.

    He hadn¡¯t expected that Senior Sister Yun Ruo could have such a role. If he had known earlier¡­

    Perhaps he might have hesitated to kill her back then, but only for a moment. Letting her go would have meant his own demise sooner or later.

    So, while he felt a twinge of emotion, he harbored no regrets.

    "You might not believe this," Liu Xingchen said after giving Jiang Hao some time to think. "Demanding a thousand spirit stones from you isn''t targeting you. On the contrary, it''s to help you constrain that person from Tianhuan Pavilion.

    "As long as you properly compensate them, that person won¡¯t be able to act against you in the short term.

    "Be cautious, and demonstrate your value. The Broken Sentiment Cliff will do its best to protect you.

    "As for forbidding you from leaving the sect, it''s partly because you''re under suspicion and partly because Yun Ruo had some admirers within her sect.

    "Some of them are not only influential but also of high status. Reportedly, if Yun Ruo hadn¡¯t had a unique role to play, one of them would¡¯ve already taken her back.

    "Now that she¡¯s dead, you¡¯ve attracted the attention of some people from the Luoxia Sect.

    "In short, Junior Brother, your situation is quite precarious."

    Jiang Hao: "..."

    He had rendered a service to the sect, but instead of receiving a reward, he was made to pay compensation. And now, they claimed it was for his benefit.

    The most infuriating part was that he couldn¡¯t even refute it.

    After all, in a demonic sect, it was no big deal for a pavilion master to target an inner disciple.

    "Thank you for the information, Senior Brother," Jiang Hao said gratefully.

    "Take care, Junior Brother. If you uncover any news about other traitors, feel free to let me know." With a wave, Liu Xingchen departed.

    Once Jiang Hao was alone in the courtyard, he glanced at the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    He understood now¡ªthis Senior Brother had his own agenda. Otherwise, why would he bother explaining so much? Not only had he defused Jiang Hao''s grievances against the Enforcement Hall, but he¡¯d even managed to gain some of Jiang Hao''s appreciation.

    "Did he not recognize it, or is he waiting for the right moment?" Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t quite figure it out.

    He resumed his usual routine of collecting energy bubbles and selling talismans.

    From that day on, however, it seemed that more unfamiliar faces began appearing in the Broken Sentiment Cliff¡¯s spirit herb garden.

    Some were steward elders, while others were inner disciples.

    Initially, Jiang Hao paid them little mind.

    Until one day, a senior sister persistently asked him about spirit herbs. That was when he realized there was more to her visit.

    Sure enough, a week later, this senior sister appeared at his residence, claiming to have obtained a rare spirit herb and asking for his opinion.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    "Junior Brother, you don¡¯t have any guests, do you? If so, I¡¯ll come back another time," the senior sister, Ming Yi, said, peering into the courtyard.

    "No, not at all. But Senior Sister, I think you overestimate me¡ªI¡¯m not very knowledgeable about spirit herbs," Jiang Hao said honestly.

    Lately, his focus had been on talisman-making, leaving little time to deepen his understanding of spirit herbs.

    Thankfully, his progress in talisman-making had been swift¡ªhe¡¯d reached a 90% success rate and was ready to tackle more challenging ones.

    In the past week, he had earned 150 spirit stones, bringing his total to 450.

    With just over two months left, he was halfway to the compensation amount.

    As for this senior sister, she was from the Misty Cloud Peak. Having recently ended a long period of seclusion, she hadn¡¯t met many people yet, which was why she¡¯d approached him.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t believe her words for a second. He immediately activated his divine ability.

    In a flash, feedback appeared before him:

    **[Ming Yi: A candidate saintess of the Heavenly Saint Sect, with a Golden Core early-stage cultivation. An undercover agent in the Tianyin Sect¡¯s Misty Cloud Peak, she seeks to uncover the sect¡¯s rise to power.

    "According to her orders, the key item is in your courtyard. Using this as an excuse, she intends to probe further. Ruthless and cunning, she hides her malice behind a charming smile.]**

    Upon realizing her cultivation level, Jiang Hao bowed his head.

    These undercover agents were either at the Golden Core stage or true disciples¡ªor even saintesses.

    But one thing surprised Jiang Hao: the reason for the Tianyin Sect''s rise was supposedly in his courtyard.

    Could it be the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower?

    Wasn¡¯t this plant something entrusted to him by the acting sect master? Why would it be tied to the sect¡¯s rise?

    Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t make sense of it.

    He resolved to search the sect''s archives later.

    Still, it was clear now¡ªthis whole situation was a trap. His current predicament was dire.

    Ming Yi didn¡¯t linger long. She briefly glanced around the courtyard and handed Jiang Hao the spirit herb to examine.

    It was indeed a remarkable herb, but one Jiang Hao didn¡¯t recognize.

    Unbothered, Ming Yi thanked him politely and took her leave.

    With a sigh, Jiang Hao resumed his usual routine.

    Over a Month Later.

    Inside his room, Jiang Hao counted his spirit stones with delight.

    "Nine hundred and twenty-six¡ªso close. Just a few more days, and I¡¯ll have the thousand spirit stones."

    He had spent the past month tirelessly crafting talismans to earn money.

    Though he occasionally attempted more advanced talismans, the low success rate meant he couldn¡¯t rely on them.

    Still, he planned to master them eventually. Stockpiling spirit stones was always wise.

    After all, with so many undercover agents around, it wouldn¡¯t hurt to have a financial cushion for potential payouts.

    Setting those thoughts aside, Jiang Hao checked his personal panel:

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 19][Cultivation: Early Foundation Establishment][Techniques: Tianyin Hundred Revolutions, Hongmeng Heart Scripture][Divine Abilities: Ninefold Substitute Death, Daily Insight, Purity of Mind][Vitality: 100/100][Cultivation Progress: 100/100][Divine Ability Uses: 0/3]

    The purple-gold legend was gone, but the Hongmeng Heart Scripture had been added.

    The most eye-catching aspects were his maxed-out vitality and cultivation progress, thanks to the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower and the abundance of energy bubbles from the spirit herb harvest season.

    Finally, the day he had been waiting for had arrived.

    With the Hongmeng purple aura concealing his cultivation, Jiang Hao no longer feared progressing too quickly.

    Without hesitation, he extracted the vitality and cultivation energy and began circulating the Hongmeng Heart Scripture.

    Theoretically, he could break through to mid-Foundation Establishment in one go.

    Vitality surged, and spiritual energy roared within him.

    The purple aura circulated through his body, refining the energy and expanding its reach.

    Soon, it flowed into his dantian.

    Jiang Hao¡¯s cultivation advanced visibly.

    Boom!

    The barrier between early and mid-Foundation Establishment shattered under the force of the purple aura.

    He had successfully stepped into mid-Foundation Establishment.

    "It worked."

    The sense of newfound strength filled Jiang Hao with relief.

    Calming himself, he looked outside and noticed it was getting late. He decided to water the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    But as he stepped into the courtyard, his pupils contracted.

    Standing there was a woman.

    Dressed in red, her figure was bathed in sunlight, revealing a flawless profile¡ªstunningly beautiful, beyond words.

    "It¡¯s her."

 16: Identifying the Demoness

    The moment he saw her, Jiang Hao¡¯s previously calm heart rippled with unease.

    It wasn¡¯t that he wanted to see the woman before him, but her presence confirmed something: the other half of the Gu poison was indeed with her.

    The woman standing there was the same one he had spent a night with before.

    Her beauty surpassed anyone he had ever encountered.

    "Her figure was perfect: a fraction more would be too much, a fraction less too little; powder made her too pale, rouge too red; her brows were like emerald feathers, her skin like snow; her waist was as slender as a silk ribbon, her teeth like pearly shells."

    Seeing her again and observing her closely, Jiang Hao could only think of this description.

    ¡°It seems you don¡¯t quite remember me,¡± Hong Yuye said, lifting her head to look at the man in front of the house.

    Her frosty gaze and cold demeanor sent chills through him.

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± Jiang Hao quickly lowered his head and replied respectfully, ¡°Your presence here is an honor; this humble one is unworthy.¡±

    ¡°Foundation Establishment mid-stage. It seems your advancement has been smooth,¡± Hong Yuye remarked casually, her words exposing Jiang Hao¡¯s secret.

    Jiang Hao was stunned.

    When they first met, he had been at the ninth level of Qi Refining. Now, in just about three months, he had not only reached Foundation Establishment but had already advanced to the mid-stage.

    If she started probing, he was finished.

    Moreover, with the Hongmeng Purple Qi concealing his cultivation, how had she noticed?

    ¡°Confused?¡± Hong Yuye sneered as she looked at him, her tone laced with disdain.

    ¡°While cultivation levels can be hidden, the body does not lie¡ªyour strength¡¯s circulation speed, the depth of your breath control, and the extension of your spirit. From these, it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve been at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment for quite some time.

    Of course, your body and spirit are inherently stronger than most, but there are limits. Combining all the signs, it¡¯s easy to deduce your level.

    More importantly, you advanced right under my nose. Do you think I¡¯m blind?¡±

    Jiang Hao was at a loss for words.

    So concealing cultivation involved this much complexity?This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    It seemed he needed to study it further.

    However, he was more worried about her intentions, especially since she had been standing near the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower this entire time.

    Fortunately, she didn¡¯t seem inclined to interrogate him further.

    Unfortunately, it appeared she was indeed interested in the flower.

    ¡°Senior, is there something you need from me?¡± Jiang Hao asked cautiously.

    Hearing this, Hong Yuye glanced down at the flower.

    ¡°Did you plant this?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Jiang Hao nodded, answering calmly, ¡°Just a small thing.¡±

    ¡°How do you grow it?¡± she asked again.

    ¡°I water it once a day,¡± Jiang Hao replied honestly.

    ¡°Just that?¡± Hong Yuye asked incredulously.

    ¡°That¡¯s it,¡± Jiang Hao confirmed.

    Though it sounded too simple to be believable, it was the truth.

    After a long silence, Hong Yuye crouched and lightly touched the tender sprout. Her expression unreadable, she said, ¡°This plant smells nice. When it matures, I¡¯ll be taking it. Do you have any objections?¡±

    ¡°This...¡± Jiang Hao hesitated, trying to refuse.

    But before he could finish, Hong Yuye snorted coldly, ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°N-none at all,¡± Jiang Hao stammered.

    Yet, as his words fell, a surge of immense power swept through the air¡ªboundless, earth-shattering, and seemingly capable of erasing everything.

    With a loud bang, Jiang Hao was pushed back, barely managing to steady himself.

    ¡°I have no objections,¡± he quickly reiterated.

    For such a terrifying display of power to result in only minor injury clearly meant she didn¡¯t intend to kill. However, her authority was absolute and not to be defied.

    How strong was she, exactly? Jiang Hao was both shaken and awed.

    Seeing him comply, Hong Yuye refrained from pressing further.

    Retracting her gaze from him, she looked back at the flower and said, ¡°This flower is mine now. Take good care of it.¡±

    ¡°Senior, when do you plan to take it?¡± Jiang Hao asked.

    ¡°When it blooms and bears fruit,¡± Hong Yuye replied calmly.

    Her voice was exceptionally pleasant. Regardless of her mood, to Jiang Hao, it was like a gentle breeze in spring.

    Unfortunately, she was also a robber. Jiang Hao sighed inwardly.

    Her answer, however, did ease his anxiety.

    After all, the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower¡¯s maturity was still far off. That meant he had ample time.

    At least he wouldn¡¯t be punished for losing it prematurely. Of course, Elder Bai Zhi¡¯s true intent was for him to use it as bait¡­

    Bait?

    Suddenly, Jiang Hao recalled that such a remarkable item wouldn¡¯t have been given to him for mere baiting¡ªit was likely meant to attract someone extraordinary.

    That¡­

    Wouldn¡¯t it be the woman standing before him?

    Her unparalleled beauty and immense power left no doubt.

    Perhaps the entire purpose of the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower was to draw her out.

    For a moment, Jiang Hao dared not speak further and pretended to know nothing.

    Hong Yuye rose and walked into the house, sitting down. Jiang Hao could only stand aside and wait for her instructions.

    ¡°I won¡¯t have you help me for free.¡±

    As she spoke, a piece of paper appeared on the table.

    ¡°This is a formation diagram. You don¡¯t need any expertise; just follow the instructions. It¡¯ll help prevent spiritual energy from dispersing. With that flower, it¡¯ll increase the spiritual energy around you, aiding your cultivation.¡±

    Jiang Hao was tempted. He had been considering doing something similar to avoid trouble.

    As for those traitors, they wouldn¡¯t make any moves for now, though he didn¡¯t know why.

    Thinking of this, Jiang Hao suddenly remembered his divine ability. If he could appraise the woman before him, he might uncover her true intentions.

    But she was too strong, and he worried about being caught.

    After some hesitation, Jiang Hao decided to use it.

    His divine ability activated quickly, and the result left him stunned.

    [???]

    Jiang Hao: ¡°???¡±

    ¡°Is there something you want to ask?¡± Hong Yuye¡¯s cold voice interrupted his thoughts.

    ¡°No, thank you for your generosity, Senior,¡± Jiang Hao replied hurriedly, trying to mask his shock.

 17: The Secret Manual Left by the Demoness

    Although nothing was appraised, Jiang Hao was relieved that he hadn¡¯t been discovered.

    Using this ability in the future, he wouldn¡¯t need to worry as much.

    Jiang Hao let out a quiet breath of relief.

    As for why the appraisal didn¡¯t yield any results, the reason was unclear. Was it because her cultivation was too high or for some other reason? He could only test it again later.

    ¡°You seem very intent on hiding your cultivation,¡± Hong Yuye said calmly, her gaze fixed on Jiang Hao.

    ¡°I simply wish not to draw too much attention, Senior. The flower in the courtyard is extraordinary and could easily attract trouble,¡± Jiang Hao replied, not entirely lying.

    His cultivation was advancing too quickly, and with the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower in his possession, the pace wouldn¡¯t slow down.

    If he didn¡¯t conceal his cultivation, it wouldn¡¯t be long before countless people set their sights on him. Forget Golden Core cultivators¡ªeven someone at the late or peak Foundation Establishment stage could render him helpless.

    ¡°Then take this.¡± Hong Yuye casually placed a book on the table and warned, ¡°You understand the consequences if the flower isn¡¯t well cared for, right?¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Jiang Hao replied immediately, nodding.

    He glanced at the book on the table.

    It had no title, so it didn¡¯t seem to be a cultivation manual.

    Hong Yuye rose slowly and walked toward the door.

    As she reached the doorway, she turned to look back at Jiang Hao.

    That glance, cold and piercing, sent chills down his spine.

    ¡°Does Senior have any other instructions?¡± Jiang Hao steadied himself and lowered his head to ask.

    Her gaze was too terrifying for him to meet directly.

    It seemed to carry an immense pressure that made him feel restless and uneasy.

    This was the power of a true cultivator¡ªone glance could crush a person¡¯s spirit.

    ¡°Regarding my matters...¡±

    Before she could finish, Jiang Hao quickly said, ¡°I swear, Senior, I will never disclose anything about you to anyone, even if it costs me my life.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d better remember your words.¡± Hong Yuye gave him a final glance and then left.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be visiting regularly to check on the flower¡¯s growth. If anything happens to it, you¡¯ll face my wrath,¡± her icy voice echoed in his ears.

    Jiang Hao waited for a long time until he was sure she had left entirely.

    Only then did he let out a heavy sigh of relief.

    Her gaze alone had left him drenched in cold sweat.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    Whenever she was around, his emotions became chaotic, and now that she had left, he felt a calm void.

    It wasn¡¯t a pleasant feeling.

    ¡°What did she leave behind?¡±

    Jiang Hao walked over to the table and picked up the nameless book, flipping it open.

    There was no introduction in the book; it began directly with explanations about spiritual energy, the mind, the body, and breathing techniques.

    The descriptions were incredibly detailed.

    The handwriting seemed casual but elegant, suggesting it was a set of personal notes.

    Ignoring the aesthetics, Jiang Hao started reading carefully.

    Soon, he realized that the book described techniques for controlling one¡¯s breath, extending one¡¯s spirit, and mastering physical strength.

    If he could master these techniques, he would be able to perfectly conceal his cultivation.

    Furthermore, the methods outlined could help him deduce the cultivation levels of others by analyzing their breathing patterns, spiritual energy flows, and physical strength.

    Beyond that, mastering these techniques would make his cultivation efforts much more efficient.

    ¡°This book is practically a top-tier cultivation manual, an absolute treasure. It seems that woman is determined to get the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.¡±

    The Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower had been entrusted to him by Elder Bai Zhi. Initially, he had considered asking Elder Bai Zhi to transplant it back.

    Now, he didn¡¯t even dare to think about it.

    As for the woman¡¯s demand for the flower, he had no choice but to comply. His only hope was that the flower would mature as late as possible.

    He also hoped Elder Bai Zhi wouldn¡¯t try to take it back.

    As for the traitor issue, there had been no developments, so it couldn¡¯t be assessed for now.

    After roughly familiarizing himself with the book¡¯s content, Jiang Hao turned his attention to the formation diagram.

    This was much simpler to understand.

    The initial setup would require around a hundred spirit stones.

    Fortunately, he had enough spirit stones at the moment, and the thousand-stone compensation was no longer a pressing concern.

    With a month still to go, he had time to earn another hundred stones.

    By the time the formation was set up, it was nearing noon.

    Jiang Hao hurried to the Spirit Herb Garden.

    The garden was the same as always. It wasn¡¯t a place frequented by many, except for those coming to purchase herbs.

    Most commonly, people sought Heartbreak Grass.

    During this time, even the inner disciples of Heartbreak Cliff knew he had provoked the Tianhuan Pavilion and often avoided him, fearing he might ask to borrow spirit stones from them.

    Of course, it wasn¡¯t actually about borrowing stones¡ªno one would lend them anyway.

    They were more concerned that associating with him might lead the Tianhuan Pavilion to assume they were allies.

    This situation made Jiang Hao realize that Heartbreak Cliff lacked the authority and influence of the Tianhuan Pavilion.

    Only traitors dared to approach him, and even then, they always had legitimate reasons.

    They, too, were afraid of being treated like bait.

    ¡°The big fish has already taken the bait. I just hope Elder Bai Zhi doesn¡¯t start asking questions too soon. Otherwise¡­¡±

    It was impossible to confess the truth. That woman¡¯s strength seemed far beyond Elder Bai Zhi¡¯s.

    Or perhaps Elder Bai Zhi simply hadn¡¯t shown her full power.

    Given his current strength, he couldn¡¯t afford to offend either side.

    Pushing these thoughts aside, Jiang Hao began helping with tasks in the Spirit Herb Garden.

    By now, the bubbles of energy had fully merged into his body.

    [Spirit +1][Strength +1][Endurance +1][Dagger Mastery +1]

    There was no increase in cultivation or vitality this time, but Jiang Hao didn¡¯t mind. After reading that book, he felt more attuned to his strength and spirit.

    Whenever he absorbed these bubbles, he could clearly sense the subtle improvements. This feeling was incredibly satisfying.

    Over the next few days, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t rush to sell talismans but instead focused on studying the book.

    He needed to thoroughly comprehend it before venturing out.

    Otherwise, if he encountered a strong cultivator capable of assessing him holistically, his cultivation might be exposed.

    During his studies, Jiang Hao entered a state of mental clarity and serenity, which significantly accelerated his progress.

 18: Trouble from Tianhuan Pavilion?

    Half a month after acquiring the nameless manual, Jiang Hao had finally mastered the art of concealing his cultivation. Now, no matter how one examined him, he appeared to be a typical early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.

    As he continued to improve, as long as no one could see through his Hongmeng Purple Qi, no one would know the true extent of his hidden cultivation.

    Inside his room, Jiang Hao let out a deep breath.

    He then opened his panel to check his current status.

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 19][Cultivation: Mid-Foundation Establishment][Techniques: Heavenly Melody Requiem, Hongmeng Mind Scripture][Abilities: Ninefold Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Clear Mind and Pure Heart][Vitality: 35/100 (Cultivatable)][Cultivation: 38/100 (Cultivatable)][Abilities: 0/3 (Cannot acquire more abilities)]

    "There¡¯s no display for this method¡ªit seems to truly be just a special technique."

    "Advancing to early Foundation Establishment consumed roughly the same resources as advancing to mid-Foundation Establishment. I wonder if I can leap forward in one go next time."

    Jiang Hao decided he would test this in the future.

    In two or three months, he could attempt another breakthrough. If it went smoothly, he would reach late Foundation Establishment.

    "The compensation deadline is approaching. I need to earn more spirit stones."

    Now that he could completely hide his cultivation, there was nothing to fear.

    Still, he was curious whether he could fool that woman. He decided to test it after his next breakthrough.

    For now, he was somewhat looking forward to her return.

    Of course, considering her strength and erratic temperament, he had to tread carefully. Avoiding her altogether would be the best course of action.

    After a visit to the Spirit Herb Garden, Jiang Hao found a few bubbles.

    [Strength +1][Strength +1][Spirit +1][Cultivation +1]

    All these years of collecting bubbles, yet he had never encountered an Intelligence +1.

    It was a pity¡ªgreater intelligence would help him grow stronger faster and escape his current predicament.

    Fortunately, the small increments in spirit and strength were still noticeable.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    Given a hundred years, his spirit might surpass even the Golden Core stage¡ªassuming he didn¡¯t advance his cultivation.

    By noon, Jiang Hao left the Spirit Herb Garden and headed to the sect market.

    The market was as usual¡ªnot crowded. It was normal for this place to be relatively quiet.

    Along the way, he spotted Qi Yang. Jiang Hao thought of greeting him but noticed Qi Yang¡¯s senior brother pull him away immediately.

    Watching them leave, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t bother chasing after them.

    Qi Yang seemed to have noticed him and lowered his head, appearing somewhat ashamed.

    Jiang Hao instantly understood. He had been foolish. With the Tianhuan Pavilion targeting him, greeting others might drag them into trouble.

    Qi Yang¡¯s senior brother¡¯s actions were understandable.

    Pushing aside these thoughts, Jiang Hao found a stall and began selling talismans.

    Most were the three usual types: Blazing Fire Talismans, Focus Talismans, and Divine Sword Talismans.

    Occasionally, he could produce a Ten Thousand Swords Talisman, but the cost was too high, so he preferred to play it safe for now.

    He still needed about 150 spirit stones.

    At five spirit stones per talisman, he had to sell thirty talismans.

    Currently, he had over fifty talismans in stock but displayed only a dozen.

    Putting too many out at once would lower their perceived value.

    "Once I¡¯ve settled the compensation, I¡¯ll start making Ten Thousand Swords Talismans. They¡¯re powerful and valuable. Without the weight of a thousand-spirit-stone debt, I won¡¯t have to worry as much about costs," Jiang Hao thought.

    "Junior Brother, we meet again. I¡¯ve been holding back on buying talismans just to wait for you," Cold Sweet Fairy said with a smile as she approached Jiang Hao¡¯s stall.

    "Senior Sister, do you need more Blazing Fire Talismans?" Jiang Hao asked enthusiastically.

    He remembered her well; she had bought dozens of Blazing Fire Talismans before, earning him a decent profit.

    Cold Sweet Fairy shook her head. "No. Do you have any Ten Thousand Swords Talismans?"

    This Senior Sister favored powerful talismans. Jiang Hao regretted having to say, "I¡¯m afraid not. They¡¯re too difficult to make."

    "In that case, give me all the Divine Sword Talismans you have," she said boldly.

    "Five talismans, twenty-five spirit stones in total. For Senior Sister, it¡¯s only twenty-two," Jiang Hao replied, handing over the talismans.

    "Generous and good quality¡ªyou know how to do business," she said, handing over twenty-two spirit stones with a smile.

    Her gaze carried a hint of sharpness, and her smile had a dangerous undertone.

    After storing the talismans, she leaned in and asked softly, "I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯ve offended the Tianhuan Pavilion?"

    Before Jiang Hao could respond, she continued, "Be careful, Junior Brother. The Tianhuan Pavilion is full of ambitious people who¡¯ll stop at nothing. Don¡¯t leave the sect unless absolutely necessary¡ªit¡¯s too risky. I wouldn¡¯t want to lose my go-to talisman supplier."

    Jiang Hao nodded and expressed his gratitude, giving her a few unsold Swift Talismans and Fire Talismans as a gift.

    Not lingering, Cold Sweet Fairy left quickly.

    Before long, Jiang Hao had another visitor¡ªa pale-faced man in mid-Foundation Establishment.

    "Jiang Hao? Junior Brother Jiang? I¡¯ve been hearing a lot about you lately. Did you really kill Junior Sister Yunruo?" Miao Qian asked in a sarcastic tone.

    Hearing this, Jiang Hao¡¯s heart sank. Someone from the Tianhuan Pavilion.

    "Coincidence, or are they deliberately looking for trouble?"

    After a moment of hesitation, Jiang Hao greeted him respectfully, "What would you like to say, Senior Brother?"

    "Oh, nothing much. Just came to buy something. How much are these talismans?" Miao Qian asked, picking up a Focus Talisman.

    "Five spirit stones for a Focus Talisman, three for a Blazing Fire Talisman," Jiang Hao replied.

    Without batting an eye, Miao Qian smiled coldly. "I¡¯ll take them all. How much for everything?"

    All of them? Jiang Hao realized the day wasn¡¯t going to go smoothly.

 19: Murder

    ¡°Junior Brother, why aren¡¯t you responding? Calculate how many spirit stones are needed,¡± Miao Qian said with a smile.

    He casually picked up all the talismans from Jiang Hao''s stall and continued:¡°I have to say, you have quite the collection here¡ªfour Fire Talismans and six Focus Talismans.¡±

    Jiang Hao stopped overthinking and politely responded:¡°One Fire Talisman is three spirit stones, and one Focus Talisman is five spirit stones.

    Four Fire Talismans total twelve spirit stones, and six Focus Talismans make thirty. Altogether, that¡¯s forty-two spirit stones. Senior Brother, you can just pay me forty.¡±

    ¡°Forty spirit stones? Junior Brother, you¡¯re giving me quite the discount,¡± Miao Qian said, nodding in approval of the price.

    But as he prepared to pay, he suddenly feigned surprise:¡°Oh no, what an unfortunate coincidence¡ªI didn¡¯t bring that many spirit stones today. How about this? I¡¯ll bring the spirit stones over to you tomorrow.

    If you¡¯re uneasy about it, you can come with me to Tianhuan Pavilion, and I¡¯ll pay you at my residence.¡±

    Finishing his words, Miao Qian wore a mocking smile and asked deliberately:¡°What do you think, Junior Brother? Care to accompany me to Tianhuan Pavilion?¡±

    Jiang Hao lowered his gaze, sighing inwardly. Going to Tianhuan Pavilion would be akin to walking into a trap.

    Realizing this, he could only swallow his frustration.¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare trouble Senior Brother. I¡¯ll wait here for you tomorrow,¡± he replied politely.

    ¡°Good,¡± Miao Qian said, putting the talismans away with a smirk.¡°Be sure to wait for me here tomorrow. Otherwise, people might think I¡¯m bullying you by not paying.¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Jiang Hao said, shaking his head.

    He then watched as Miao Qian left. Jiang Hao packed up and departed as well, while others in the vicinity quietly observed the entire scene.

    Such occurrences weren¡¯t rare. If someone lacked backing or offended the wrong person, they were often subjected to this kind of treatment.

    Night.

    On the way to Tianhuan Pavilion.

    Miao Qian walked along a mountain path with a junior disciple beside him, laughing as he said:¡°I had a good day today. I happened to run into someone who angered my master, so I taught him a lesson.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother, your luck is enviable. I hope to become as strong as you someday,¡± the young Qi Refinement disciple flattered after hearing the details.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    ¡°Enough of that. Here, I¡¯ll give you one spirit stone,¡± Miao Qian said, feeling pleased.

    Today, he had resold the talismans and made over thirty spirit stones in profit.

    ¡°Are you going back tomorrow, Senior Brother?¡± the younger disciple asked.

    ¡°Of course. Not just tomorrow¡ªI¡¯ll keep going every day,¡± Miao Qian said in a low voice, his tone turning sinister.¡°I¡¯ll bring more senior brothers and sisters along too, and I¡¯ll drain him of everything he has.

    In the end, he¡¯ll be just another corpse claimed by Tianhuan Pavilion.¡±

    Noticing Miao Qian¡¯s grim expression, the junior disciple dared not speak further.

    He¡¯d heard rumors that Miao Qian secretly admired Senior Sister Yun Ruo, whose death had left many disciples resentful toward the one responsible.

    When Miao Qian¡¯s mood seemed to improve, the junior disciple mustered the courage to speak again.

    But before he could say anything, he suddenly felt a blow to the back of his head and lost consciousness.

    The sudden commotion alerted Miao Qian, who spun around, shouting:¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±

    As he turned, a dagger stabbed into his throat.

    The unexpected attack threw him into panic. He tried to retreat, but another dagger plunged into his neck.

    Blood gushed out in torrents.

    Terrified, Miao Qian clutched at his throat but saw no one. He managed to stammer:¡°Senior... Senior, there must be some misunderstanding.¡±

    At that moment, a sword pierced through his chest from behind.

    ¡°Senior... have mercy,¡± he pleaded desperately.

    But another sword appeared from the front, stabbing into him.

    One after another, several spiritual swords impaled him from various angles.

    Finally, a spear pinned him to a nearby tree.

    As Miao Qian neared death, a shadowy figure approached and removed his storage artifact.

    ¡°Why... why are you doing this?¡± he gasped.

    The shadowy figure spoke in a soft, measured tone:¡°I¡¯m here to collect payment.¡±

    Miao Qian¡¯s pupils contracted in horror. How could someone with just Foundation Establishment stage cultivation kill him so easily?

    Once the figure confirmed that Miao Qian was dead, they vanished swiftly into the darkness.

    Some time later, the Qi Refinement disciple regained consciousness. When he saw Miao Qian¡¯s gruesome death, he fled up the mountain in terror.

    Jiang Hao sat in his hall, counting spirit stones. He frowned slightly.¡°Only sixty? A Foundation Establishment cultivator can be this poor?¡±

    As an inner sect disciple, Jiang Hao had over a hundred spirit stones back in his Qi Refinement stage.

    By Foundation Establishment stage, one could earn twenty or thirty spirit stones a month.

    Miao Qian¡¯s possessions, even after selling the talismans, only amounted to this much. Without the sale, it would¡¯ve been barely twenty.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s still a profit,¡± Jiang Hao muttered, shaking his head.

    The spiritual swords he¡¯d used in the fight had been intentionally left behind. It was better to expend them¡ªthey were too numerous anyway.

    He hadn¡¯t killed the Qi Refinement disciple because it wasn¡¯t necessary.

    Everyone had witnessed what happened earlier. If Tianhuan Pavilion decided to suspect him, one more or one less witness wouldn¡¯t make a difference.

    In theory, no one should bother him¡ªhis cultivation level made it seem impossible for him to defeat someone at Foundation Establishment mid-stage.

    Moreover, the protective aura of his Primal Chaos Energy ensured he wouldn¡¯t be exposed.

    Still, theory meant little. If Tianhuan Pavilion wanted to pin a crime on him, they could always find a way.

    ¡°It all depends on Liu Xingchen. Let¡¯s see how he responds.¡±

    Jiang Hao realized that as an inner sect disciple, he would only be fined for any unproven accusations.

    If Liu Xingchen showed him any leniency, nothing would happen to him.

    What he feared most was irrefutable evidence being found.

    Morning.

    As Jiang Hao stepped outside, he saw Liu Xingchen waiting for him.

    So, he¡¯s here, Jiang Hao thought, masking his emotions.

    ¡°Junior Brother, we meet again,¡± Liu Xingchen said, gesturing toward Jiang Hao¡¯s courtyard.¡°Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±

 20: Being Named by the Disciplinary Hall

    In the hall, Jiang Hao invited Liu Xingchen to take a seat.

    This time, as Jiang Hao followed him in, he noticed that Liu Xingchen didn¡¯t spare a glance at the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower. This puzzled him. Perhaps Liu Xingchen had already confirmed its presence and wanted to avoid raising suspicion.

    ¡°Do you know why I¡¯m here today?¡± Liu Xingchen asked after sitting down.

    ¡°Is it still about the matter with the Heavenly Joy Pavilion?¡± Jiang Hao cautiously replied, probing for an answer.

    Liu Xingchen¡¯s visit this time felt entirely different from the first. It seemed more like an attempt to win him over. Of course, Jiang Hao already had an inkling of the real reason¡ªmost likely it was about Miao Qian.

    As he spoke, Jiang Hao poured tea and handed a cup to Liu Xingchen.

    ¡°Yes and no.¡± Liu Xingchen sipped the tea before continuing, ¡°Do you know Miao Qian of the Heavenly Joy Pavilion?¡±

    ¡°Yes. He bought some talismans from me yesterday and promised to pay for them today,¡± Jiang Hao replied honestly. So, it was indeed about this matter.

    ¡°Are you planning to ask him for the payment today?¡± Liu Xingchen asked while placing the teacup down and fixing his gaze on Jiang Hao.

    Shaking his head lightly, Jiang Hao responded with a trace of helplessness, ¡°He¡¯s doing it on purpose. There¡¯s no way he¡¯ll pay me. Even if I go, he¡¯ll just take more talismans and keep me waiting, or ask me to visit the Heavenly Joy Pavilion.¡±

    ¡°Miao Qian is dead,¡± Liu Xingchen stated bluntly.

    Jiang Hao frowned slightly and fell silent for a moment.

    Liu Xingchen sipped his tea, waiting patiently without further comment.

    After a while, Jiang Hao broke the silence, ¡°Do they think I did it?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Liu Xingchen admitted with a faint nod before continuing, ¡°After some investigation, I visited the market and heard that you had some conflict with him. But with your current strength, it¡¯s impossible for you to be his match, especially considering what was left behind at the scene. Frankly, you don¡¯t seem that extravagant.¡±

    ¡°What did he leave behind?¡± Jiang Hao asked deliberately.

    ¡°A bunch of spirit swords. However, the method of killing is somewhat reminiscent of your style¡ªstriking the neck with precision.¡± Liu Xingchen¡¯s tone was casual, but his eyes stayed fixed on Jiang Hao, observing his every reaction. So far, he hadn¡¯t noticed anything unusual.

    Breaking the silence again, Jiang Hao asked, ¡°Someone is framing me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s hard to say. But without evidence, the Heavenly Joy Pavilion can¡¯t do much to you. Of course, this brings up another point,¡± Liu Xingchen said seriously, lifting his gaze to meet Jiang Hao¡¯s. ¡°Without evidence, if someone were to kill you, your death would be meaningless.¡±This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    Hearing this, Jiang Hao felt a cold sweat break out.

    If he could kill others, then others could kill him too. The thought of staying here made him feel increasingly unsafe.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much,¡± Liu Xingchen reassured him, noticing Jiang Hao¡¯s slightly pale face. ¡°Though we¡¯re called a demonic sect, the rules are strict. Killing fellow disciples isn¡¯t tolerated unless someone can erase all traces, as the culprit did last night.

    ¡°Normally, that shouldn¡¯t be possible. In cases of sect murders, the Disciplinary Hall has never failed to identify the perpetrator.¡±

    Jiang Hao exhaled in relief but felt a sense of gratitude for his Hongmeng Purple Qi, which shielded him from detection. Without it, he wouldn¡¯t have dared to act.

    The Disciplinary Hall was rumored to possess various powerful artifacts, which he had heard about before.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that the punishment for killing fellow disciples is severe,¡± Jiang Hao inquired.

    ¡°Offenders are sent to the Tower of Lawlessness,¡± Liu Xingchen replied, his voice tinged with unease. ¡°It¡¯s the sect¡¯s harshest penalty. Entering the tower drains your cultivation. Anyone who survives loses at least one major cultivation level.

    ¡°If that doesn¡¯t deter you, then go ahead and kill someone. For perspective, a Golden Core cultivator who enters might come out weaker than you. Do you think that¡¯s much different from being dead?

    ¡°Beyond that, they lose their rank and privileges, face hostility within the sect, and risk being killed the moment they leave.¡±

    ¡°What happens to Qi Refinement cultivators who enter?¡± Jiang Hao asked.

    ¡°They lose everything and are sent to the mines to work. Life and death are their own business there,¡± Liu Xingchen explained.

    ¡°Does the sect oversee disputes in the mines?¡±

    ¡°No, it doesn¡¯t.¡±

    Jiang Hao nodded. He had some prior understanding but didn¡¯t know the details. From what he¡¯d learned, staying in the sect was relatively safe. Outside the sect, death seemed inevitable.

    Within the sect, anyone planning to act against him had to exercise caution. But having killed someone himself, he couldn¡¯t help but worry that others might make their move on a moonless night.

    ¡°As long as you¡¯re careful, your life won¡¯t be in great danger here,¡± Liu Xingchen reassured him. ¡°You¡¯ve been named as a person of interest, and I¡¯ve added you to the Disciplinary Hall¡¯s monitoring list.

    ¡°If anything happens, the Disciplinary Hall will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. Whoever is responsible will face severe punishment. After all, this affects the enforcement of sect laws.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Senior Brother,¡± Jiang Hao said gratefully.

    Despite being added to a watchlist, he still had to express his thanks. The irony wasn¡¯t lost on him.

    ¡°No need for thanks,¡± Liu Xingchen replied. ¡°If not for Yun Ruo¡¯s death, which caused a major stir, you wouldn¡¯t be in this precarious position.

    ¡°Speaking of which, the deadline for the Heavenly Joy Pavilion¡¯s compensation is approaching. Are you prepared?¡±

    ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be a problem,¡± Jiang Hao quickly replied.

    ¡°Good. When the time comes, if you trust me, you can bring the payment to the Disciplinary Hall, and I¡¯ll deliver it to the Heavenly Joy Pavilion for you,¡± Liu Xingchen offered with a smile.

    After chatting a bit more, Jiang Hao learned that his relative safety thus far was partly due to the influence of the Severing Emotions Cliff. The Heavenly Joy Pavilion was furious but didn¡¯t want to provoke the Severing Emotions Cliff unnecessarily.

    Instead, they were waiting for the right opportunity to act.

    As Jiang Hao escorted Liu Xingchen out, he asked a question that had been bothering him:

    ¡°If someone were to harm me, and it turned out to be a rare genius, would the punishment still be the same?¡±

    Geniuses often enjoyed certain privileges.

    Hearing this, Liu Xingchen chuckled, then said with admiration, ¡°That would depend on whether you¡¯re dead. If you are, the judgment would fall to the Sect Leader.

    ¡°Once, a similar situation occurred, and the Sect Leader gave her ruling: ¡®No genius is greater than me. Undermining the sect¡¯s laws is equivalent to shaking its foundation. Kill them.¡¯¡±

    After that, Liu Xingchen left, leaving Jiang Hao in awe of the Sect Leader¡¯s arrogance.

    At the same time, he worried about being discovered.

    At Hundred Flowers Lake.

    Hong Yuye frowned slightly, causing Bai Zhi nearby to hold her breath, not daring to make a sound.

    ¡°Report your recent findings,¡± Hong Yuye said coldly, her face devoid of emotion.

 21: Reassessing Liu Xingchen

    At Baihua Lake, the sunlight was warm, and a gentle breeze drifted through. Petals fell onto the lake, creating ripples that spread outward.

    Dressed in red, Hong Yuye sat upright in a pavilion. She casually brushed a strand of hair from her face while waiting for Baizhi to speak.

    In the presence of the sect leader, Baizhi felt an overwhelming sense of reverence and dared not delay.

    "The Tianxiang Dao Flower has already taken root and sprouted. During this time, Jiang Hao from Duanqing Cliff has exhibited no unusual behavior, acting just as he normally would.

    Some individuals have begun to approach him, but all have legitimate reasons. No one seems to be targeting the Tianxiang Dao Flower," Baizhi reported truthfully.

    "So, there¡¯s nothing to report?" Hong Yuye¡¯s gaze turned toward Baizhi, her tone calm.

    "I¡¯ve failed in my duties," Baizhi knelt, trembling with fear.

    "Don¡¯t fixate on a single place. Look elsewhere and beyond," Hong Yuye said as she gazed out at the lake, her voice steady. "Sometimes, the greatest influence comes from the farthest distance."

    "Are you suggesting they¡¯re waiting for internal collaboration or reinforcements? If so, then Jiang Hao is still a suspect," Baizhi realized, her perspective suddenly broader.

    She had been overly focused on the task given by the sect leader, blinding her to the bigger picture. Hong Yuye¡¯s unexpected emergence from seclusion only added to Baizhi¡¯s pressure.

    Particularly since the appearance of the Tianxiang Dao Flower suggested that something significant was happening. This realization left Baizhi anxious.

    "If I keep making mistakes like this, I could be in danger," Baizhi thought.

    "That¡¯s your responsibility. Still, merits must be rewarded," Hong Yuye said, extending her hand. A silver-white transparent box materialized, with a floating piece of armor inside.

    The box landed gently in front of Baizhi.

    "Go," Hong Yuye dismissed her.

    "Understood," Baizhi rose and departed.

    After inspecting the armor, she noted it was designed for Foundation Establishment cultivators. This indicated that the recipient of the reward was likely Jiang Hao, who had cultivated the Tianxiang Dao Flower.

    Even though he remained a suspect, without evidence, he was still a proper inner disciple. Cultivating the Tianxiang Dao Flower was a genuine merit.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

    However, Baizhi pondered whether to mention the sect leader¡¯s involvement when the time came.

    That evening, Jiang Hao examined the close-fitting soft armor now draped on him. It felt remarkably comfortable.

    This armor was his reward, delivered at Baiyue Lake by Elder Baizhi herself. According to her, someone had been impressed with his cultivation of the Tianxiang Dao Flower and personally arranged the gift.

    "Someone?" Jiang Hao thought, pondering deeply.

    "Could Elder Baizhi, the acting leader of Tianyin Sect, mean the sect leader who has never appeared before?

    "It makes sense. The Tianxiang Dao Flower is significant enough to involve the sect leader.

    "If the flower is taken by that woman, wouldn¡¯t that mean I¡¯ve offended the sect leader?"

    Jiang Hao quickly dismissed the idea. Perhaps Elder Baizhi intended for him to believe this and be cautious.

    In any case, he couldn¡¯t afford to offend anyone at the moment. He needed to delay and maintain the flower¡¯s healthy growth.

    As for the armor, Jiang Hao had already appraised it and was astonished by the results. It was the finest treasure he had encountered in his cultivation journey.

    [One of the Nine Heavens Battle Armors ¨C Defensive Armor: Provides exceptional protection. Independently capable of resisting most attacks below Golden Core level. Defense increases with additional armor pieces.]

    It was part of a set.

    With this armor, Jiang Hao felt significantly safer.

    Over the following days, Jiang Hao focused on talisman crafting to continue accumulating spirit stones. Everything proceeded smoothly.

    The matter of killing Miao Qian had passed without issue. Still, Liu Xingchen had warned him to avoid unnecessary conflicts with members of the Tianhuan Pavilion. Another death would bring inevitable trouble, regardless of the circumstances.

    Jiang Hao took this advice to heart and exercised extra caution when selling his talismans.

    Seven days later, he successfully amassed 1,000 spirit stones. To avoid complications, he sought out Liu Xingchen.

    To ease Jiang Hao¡¯s concerns, Liu Xingchen immediately logged the payment and recorded it on the spot to prevent any misunderstandings.

    However, Liu Xingchen didn¡¯t hand the spirit stones to the Tianhuan Pavilion right away. Instead, he waited until the final day to submit them.

    On that day, he approached Jiang Hao and handed him a copy of the Tianhuan Pavilion¡¯s compensation record, instructing him to destroy it.

    "With this matter resolved, the Tianhuan Pavilion has no further reason to trouble you, at least not openly," Liu Xingchen reassured him.

    Jiang Hao felt a wave of relief.

    He sensed that Liu Xingchen was trying to win him over, though it would likely lead to future complications. For now, however, he needed Liu Xingchen¡¯s assistance for his own safety.

    To be cautious, Jiang Hao used his divine abilities to reassess Liu Xingchen¡¯s intentions.

    [Liu Xingchen: A true disciple of Haotian Sect, naturally imbued with Dragon Fiend Qi. A Golden Core cultivator at the perfected stage. Currently posing as a member of Tianyin Sect¡¯s Law Enforcement Hall. Befriending you to approach the Tianxiang Dao Flower and uncover whether you were responsible for Miao Qian¡¯s death.]

    "Golden Core perfection?" Jiang Hao was taken aback. The last time he checked, Liu Xingchen was only at the late stage of the Golden Core realm. His progress was astonishing.

    Still, Liu Xingchen didn¡¯t seem particularly dangerous.

    Fortunately, while Jiang Hao remained a suspect, careful navigation should suffice.

    "By the way, a reminder," Liu Xingchen said. "The distribution of inner disciple tasks is approaching. It¡¯s possible you¡¯ll be included, so stay vigilant.

    "However, since your name is still flagged in the Law Enforcement Hall, you won¡¯t be assigned missions outside the sect. The rest is up to you. You¡¯ve got a few months to prepare."

    Hearing this, Jiang Hao sighed and decided to evaluate his current cultivation state to better handle what lay ahead.

 22: The Talented Disciple

    Jiang Hao fully understood Liu Xingchen¡¯s words.

    Sect missions were typically conducted in groups, leaving him with little room to refuse participation. Such opportunities would undoubtedly be exploited.

    If he encountered members of the Tianhuan Pavilion¡ªwhich was almost guaranteed¡ªit would spell danger.

    He had to advance his cultivation quickly to ensure his safety.

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 19][Cultivation: Mid-Foundation Establishment][Techniques: Heavenly Melody Hundred Turns, Hongmeng Heart Sutra][Abilities: Ninefold Death Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Clear Minded Heart][Vital Energy: 49/100 (Trainable)][Cultivation Energy: 50/100 (Trainable)][Abilities: 0/3 (Unavailable)]

    "Only halfway there. Advancing still requires significant time."

    "I need to find a way to cultivate more spirit herb seeds. That should make it easier to get blue bubbles."

    Ever since cultivating a Tianxiang Dao Flower, his rate of accumulating cultivation energy had skyrocketed.

    Though the associated risks had also surged, the benefits he had gained were well worth it.

    The Hongmeng Heart Sutra, concealment techniques, pieces of the Nine Heavens Armor Set, and the daily blue bubbles¡ªthese were all immense gains.

    But such blessings often came at a cost; offending Elder Baizhi or that mysterious woman seemed inevitable.

    "By the way, Senior Brother, do you know when the mission assignments will be distributed?" Jiang Hao tentatively asked.

    "It¡¯s supposed to be confidential, but you¡¯ve been treated unfairly," Liu Xingchen hesitated before answering.

    "At most, three months. At the earliest, two months."

    After a pause, he added, "Actually, there are two ways to escape your predicament.

    "First, avoid the Tianhuan Pavilion entirely. With time, the situation might resolve itself. If their leader finds a new ¡®charming physique,¡¯ that would be even better.

    "Second, prove your value. If your master decides you¡¯re worth protecting at all costs, the Tianhuan Pavilion leader might weigh the pros and cons and ultimately downplay the issue."

    "But the second option is far more difficult. Incidentally, I heard Duanqing Cliff recently accepted a particularly talented disciple. Have you heard about this?"

    Jiang Hao shook his head; he wasn¡¯t aware.

    Neither option seemed feasible. For now, he could only choose the first. The second required a level of value he dared not display, and proving such worth would take time¡ªsomething he lacked.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    As for Duanqing Cliff¡¯s new prodigious disciple, he wasn¡¯t too concerned. They bore no grudges, after all.

    All Jiang Hao needed to do was carry out his duties as usual.

    When he inquired about the cultivation level of the mission leaders, Liu Xingchen replied, "It¡¯ll likely be someone in the late Foundation Establishment stage. If something unexpected happens, it could even be someone at the peak of Foundation Establishment."

    Jiang Hao lowered his head, pondering silently. He could catch up to someone in the late Foundation Establishment stage if he worked hard enough, but the peak stage was out of his current reach.

    He had to come up with a solution quickly.

    After exchanging a few more words, Liu Xingchen left but not before reassuring Jiang Hao: "The day the Tianhuan Pavilion leader lets go of this matter is the day your status as a suspect will be cleared."

    Watching Liu Xingchen leave, Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t help but marvel at how well he was being treated.

    The emergence of the Tianxiang Dao Flower had significantly improved his situation.

    Due to his conflict with the Tianhuan Pavilion, Jiang Hao refrained from getting too close to his previous acquaintances. However, being labeled a traitor ironically freed him from such constraints, as it was all about mutual exploitation now.

    "Two months, sixty days. Gaining one point of cultivation energy per day only allows for one training session."

    "I need to earn more spirit stones to buy spirit herb seeds."

    That was the only viable option he could think of. However, his current stock of spirit stones was meager¡ªjust over 90, including recent earnings.

    Buying quality talisman materials would consume most of it, leaving little for spirit herb seeds.

    The next day.

    At the entrance to the Spirit Herb Garden, Jiang Hao spotted a young man who appeared about the same age as him, perhaps even slightly younger.

    The boy¡¯s attire was neat and proper, and his face still carried a trace of youthful innocence.

    Standing beside him was a middle-aged man, who seemed to be explaining something to the boy. The boy nodded occasionally, humbly absorbing the guidance.

    The middle-aged man was none other than Jiang Hao¡¯s master, Ku Wuchang, the lord of Duanqing Cliff.

    Seeing this, Jiang Hao decided not to disturb them and attempted to slip away.

    However, the boy noticed him, leaving Jiang Hao no choice but to approach his master. He bowed respectfully and greeted him, "Disciple greets Master."

    Hearing this, Ku Wuchang turned his gaze to Jiang Hao. He lowered his eyelids slightly, as if lost in thought, before speaking in a calm voice:

    "You¡¯ve arrived just in time. Take your junior brother around the Spirit Herb Garden and familiarize him with the area. He¡¯s new here and unfamiliar with the surroundings."

    "Yes, Master," Jiang Hao replied, nodding.

    Since Jiang Hao managed most of the Spirit Herb Garden, it was natural for him to assist.

    As for whether his master was pondering the matter of the 1,000 spirit stones, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t dwell on it. All he cared about was surviving. He didn¡¯t dare hope for more.

    In the demonic sect, avoiding betrayal was already a luxury.

    One had to remain clear-headed and aware of the bigger picture.

    "My name is Jiang. Jiang Hao. For now, I¡¯m just helping out in the Spirit Herb Garden," Jiang Hao introduced himself after his master departed.

    He knew this young man was the prodigious disciple Liu Xingchen had mentioned.

    At the early Foundation Establishment stage and only eighteen or nineteen years old, the boy¡¯s talent was indeed remarkable.

    Curious, Jiang Hao activated his divine ability to appraise the newcomer.

 23: Is He Trying to Outshine Me?

    Ever since encountering Senior Sister Yun Ruo, Jiang Hao had developed a habit of appraising particularly outstanding individuals.

    He often felt they were undercover agents.

    Before long, the appraisal result for the junior brother before him appeared in Jiang Hao''s mind.

    [Han Ming: True Disciple of the Tianyin Sect''s Duanqing Cliff. Exceptional talent. Early Foundation Establishment at eighteen. Favored by the Spirit of Mountains and Rivers.]

    "A true disciple? His status is higher than mine," Jiang Hao thought to himself.

    Fortunately, there was no rule here requiring one to address true disciples as "Senior Brother." Otherwise, it would have been awkward.

    However, the sect did have the "Top Ten True Disciples" ranking. Once someone became one of the Top Ten, most people would have to adjust how they addressed them.

    Although Han Ming had exceptional talent and was favored by the Spirit of Mountains and Rivers, Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t overly concerned.

    As long as he wasn¡¯t an undercover agent, Jiang Hao could handle it calmly.

    Currently, undercover agents approaching him always had clear motives and were difficult to shake off.

    If all undercover agents were like Liu Xingchen, Jiang Hao wouldn¡¯t mind having more around.

    Although such relationships would inevitably backfire eventually, Jiang Hao believed that as long as he grew stronger than them, he could handle any fallout.

    After all, even the worst betrayal couldn¡¯t compare to that woman¡¯s power.

    Moreover, he didn¡¯t need to worry about implicating these people.

    "Senior Brother Jiang, my name is Han Ming. I hope you can guide me," Han Ming said politely, then asked curiously, "Is it true that Senior Brother is nineteen years old?"

    "Yes," Jiang Hao nodded.

    "I hope I can surpass you someday," Han Ming said with a smile.

    "You will," Jiang Hao replied simply.

    Han Ming was a genuine prodigy, while Jiang Hao was seen by his master as someone who had reached this stage purely by luck.

    "I¡¯ll show you around. But there¡¯s no need for you to come here often. I¡¯ll handle things. You should focus on cultivating," Jiang Hao advised sincerely.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    As a true disciple, there was no reason for Han Ming to waste time here. His presence today was likely just to familiarize himself with the area.

    "Thank you, Senior Brother," Han Ming said with a smile.

    Jiang Hao nodded and spent some time showing Han Ming around the Spirit Herb Garden.

    "Senior Brother, do you always manage this place? Isn¡¯t it a waste of time?" Han Ming asked as he sat under the simple wooden pavilion.

    "It¡¯s not too bad," Jiang Hao replied casually.

    Han Ming seemed unconvinced.

    "I feel like spending time here doesn¡¯t benefit your cultivation at all. I want to become one of the strongest in the sect, one of the Top Ten True Disciples," Han Ming declared.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t discourage him. He smiled sincerely and said, "Then I wish you success in achieving your goal."

    "Senior Brother, how long do you think it will take for me to surpass you?" Han Ming asked again.

    "Probably just a few years," Jiang Hao replied without hesitation.

    Under normal circumstances, that was indeed the case. In a few years, Han Ming would reach mid-Foundation Establishment, while Jiang Hao might still be at the early stage¡ªunless some miraculous opportunity arose.

    After that, Han Ming left, seemingly satisfied that Jiang Hao acknowledged his greater potential.

    Jiang Hao merely smiled faintly.

    Others avoided staying here because they didn¡¯t see any significant benefits. But for Jiang Hao, this place was different¡ªit provided a steady supply of bubbles.

    Leaving would be a huge loss for him.

    Even though white bubbles seemed insignificant, their cumulative impact was substantial.

    With his mastery of concealment and control techniques, Jiang Hao could feel his progress every day.

    "He probably thinks I¡¯m only at the early Foundation Establishment stage at nineteen and wanted to size me up. For now, there¡¯s no danger. In a few years, he likely won¡¯t care about me anymore," Jiang Hao mused silently.

    He then began tending to the spirit herbs around him.

    At noon, he set up a stall to sell talismans.

    In the afternoon, he returned to his residence to draw more talismans. Occasionally, he would study a manual to improve his skills and deepen his understanding.

    The Next Day.

    [Cultivation Energy +1][Cultivation Energy +1]

    After collecting two bubbles, Jiang Hao headed to the Spirit Herb Garden for more.

    [Mental Energy +1][Mental Energy +1][Strength +1][Vital Energy +1]

    By noon, Jiang Hao had sold some more talismans.

    He now had 135 spirit stones and planned to buy a seed. However, he wasn¡¯t sure what kind of seed to purchase.

    He hadn¡¯t bought one the previous day, not because he lacked spirit stones, but because he wanted to use his divine ability to appraise it before buying.

    At Snow Lotus Pavilion.

    The sect¡¯s largest spirit herb and elixir marketplace.

    Some of the spirit herbs sold here came from Duanqing Cliff, and Jiang Hao had handled such orders before.

    "Looking for seeds?" a young guide dressed in uniform with twin ponytails asked politely.

    "What kind are you looking for?"

    "Something difficult to cultivate¡ªnot because of environmental conditions, but because of the herb¡¯s nature," Jiang Hao replied.

    "And your budget?" the guide asked.

    "Around 100 spirit stones," Jiang Hao said.

    "For 100 spirit stones, you can get some excellent seeds. I know one that would suit you perfectly," the guide said, gesturing politely. "Please follow me, Senior Brother."

    A purchase of 100 spirit stones wasn¡¯t particularly large, but it wasn¡¯t insignificant for someone at the Foundation Establishment stage.

    Soon, at the seed counter, Jiang Hao saw a pure white seed lying quietly in a box.

    "This is a Snow Lotus seed¡ªa top-grade spirit herb for healing and enhancing cultivation. It grows best in snowy environments but can still grow elsewhere, albeit more slowly.

    "The price is 99 spirit stones. Does this meet your requirements?" the guide asked.

    Jiang Hao activated his divine ability.

    He trusted its appraisal more than anything else.

 24: A Challenge from Han Ming

    [Snow Lotus Seed: Once mature, it becomes a top-grade healing herb. However, due to existing cracks, it is difficult to cultivate. In extremely cold environments, this issue can be ignored. Otherwise, it is best to surround it with sixteen spirit stones and water it every three days.]

    ¡°May I take a closer look?¡± Jiang Hao asked, retracting his gaze and looking at the guide.

    The guide smiled flawlessly.¡°Of course.¡±

    Receiving the seed, Jiang Hao carefully examined it and soon spotted the faint cracks. He pointed them out to the guide.

    The guide, still smiling, responded,¡°Senior Brother has a sharp eye! That was just what I was about to explain. This seed has an innate crack, so we¡¯re offering it at half price¡ªfor fifty spirit stones.¡±

    So greedy, Jiang Hao thought.

    If he hadn¡¯t noticed the crack, the guide wouldn¡¯t have mentioned it.

    But it was common practice for herbal shops to overcharge customers¡ªespecially in the Demon Sect. Here, it was just done with more confidence.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take this one. Get me another seed for about fifty spirit stones as well,¡± Jiang Hao said.

    Afterward, he also purchased a Blue Lotus seed.

    It had no special functions beyond gathering more spiritual energy. Its only merit was that it withered easily if neglected.

    As for why it was so expensive...Definitely got overcharged.

    ¡°I just hope it can produce blue bubbles,¡± Jiang Hao thought as he examined the seed in his hand.

    White and green bubbles weren¡¯t very meaningful to him, as the Spirit Herb Garden already provided plenty of them.

    Returning to his residence, Jiang Hao planted the Snow Lotus, spending sixteen spirit stones in the process.

    Now, he only had nineteen spirit stones left¡ªbarely enough to purchase talisman materials. He needed to earn more spirit stones.

    The Next Day.

    Jiang Hao awoke from his cultivation and headed straight to the courtyard.

    Other than two blue bubbles provided by the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower, there was nothing else.

    The Snow Lotus hadn¡¯t sprouted yet and couldn¡¯t produce bubbles.

    Taking out the Blue Lotus seed, Jiang Hao activated his divine ability.

    [Blue Lotus Seed: Once it takes root and sprouts, it can gather spiritual energy.]Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±

    Jiang Hao was stunned. He had indeed been scammed.

    After planting the seed, he left his courtyard and went to the Spirit Herb Garden.

    Time passed quickly, the days and nights blending into one another.

    A month later, Jiang Hao put down the talisman pen in his hand and packed away the completed "Ten Thousand Sword Talismans."

    Senior Sister Leng Tian had placed an order for ten talismans. This was the tenth.

    Including the cost of failed attempts, he had spent a total of eighty spirit stones. Once sold, the talismans would fetch two hundred spirit stones, netting him a profit of one hundred and twenty.

    However, he hadn¡¯t cultivated much over the past few days.

    I¡¯ve lost a lot of progress in my cultivation, Jiang Hao thought, shaking his head to clear his mind.

    He then checked his status panel.

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: 20][Cultivation: Mid-Foundation Establishment][Techniques: Heavenly Sound Technique, Hongmeng Heart Sutra][Abilities: Nine-Turn Substitute Death (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Tranquil Mind][Vital Energy: 88/100 (Can be cultivated)][Cultivation: 90/100 (Can be cultivated)][Abilities: 0/3 (Unavailable)]

    ¡°Almost at 90. I¡¯ll need about another week to break through,¡± Jiang Hao estimated.

    He then glanced at his age on the panel and felt a twinge of sentimentality.

    ¡°Twenty years old, huh...¡±

    The past twenty years had been anything but smooth¡ªhe¡¯d always been alone. Thankfully, he had managed to survive unscathed.

    ¡°Congratulations on making it to twenty,¡± Jiang Hao joked to himself before stepping out of his room.

    In the courtyard, he finally saw a bubble by the Snow Lotus.

    It was purple.

    The Blue Lotus remained inactive, but Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t surprised; he hadn¡¯t expected much from it anyway.

    As he approached, surrounding bubbles began to drift toward him.

    [Cultivation Energy +1][Vital Energy +1][Divine Ability Fragment +1]

    ¡°A divine ability fragment again?¡±

    Jiang Hao felt that purple bubbles should offer more variety.

    Still, divine abilities were helpful. He could use more, especially since he lacked strong offensive techniques or powerful treasures.

    With a sect mission approaching, he needed to come up with a plan.

    ¡°If nothing else works, I¡¯ll buy a treasure. Selling the Ten Thousand Sword Talismans will give me close to 500 spirit stones. That should be enough for something decent.¡±

    Having made up his mind, Jiang Hao left his residence and went to the Spirit Herb Garden to collect the second batch of bubbles.

    He decided to wait until after his breakthrough to purchase a treasure. There was still enough time.

    At the Spirit Herb Garden.

    Jiang Hao saw Han Ming standing at the entrance. When Han Ming noticed him, he smiled and approached quickly.

    ¡°Senior Brother,¡± Han Ming said cheerfully. ¡°Do you notice anything different about me?¡±

    ¡°Your aura is stronger,¡± Jiang Hao observed. He was genuinely surprised. Han Ming had already refined his early Foundation Establishment stage. It wouldn¡¯t be long before he broke through to the mid-stage.

    That was fast!

    Curious, Jiang Hao appraised Han Ming again.

    [Han Ming: True Disciple of the Tianyin Sect''s Duanqing Cliff. Exceptional talent. Early Foundation Establishment. Favored by the Spirit of Mountains and Rivers. Inherits the legacy of a great power.]

    A great power¡¯s legacy? Jiang Hao was astonished.

    In just a month, his fortune improved again. Is it because of the Spirit of Mountains and Rivers¡¯ favor?

    ¡°In a few months, I¡¯ll reach mid-Foundation Establishment. By then, I¡¯ll surpass you, Senior Brother,¡± Han Ming said with a smile, his tone carrying a hint of arrogance.

    Jiang Hao responded calmly, ¡°Congratulations, Junior Brother.¡±

    Han Ming, clearly pleased, added, ¡°When the time comes, may I challenge you? Among the disciples, you¡¯re the only one close to my age.¡±

    ¡°Sure,¡± Jiang Hao agreed, already considering how he might gracefully lose the match.

    Han Ming seemed to enjoy showing off. Jiang Hao decided to let him have his moment.

    ¡°Great! Don¡¯t get upset when you lose, Senior Brother. After all, the gap between us is quite large,¡± Han Ming added smugly before walking away.

    Just before leaving, he casually remarked, ¡°Oh, by the way, I think I heard Master mention that you¡¯ve been assigned to this sect mission.¡±

 25: Mocked

    The sect mission was announced.

    Although Jiang Hao didn¡¯t show it, he was deeply concerned. After collecting the bubbles, he immediately headed to the foot of the Law Enforcement Peak.

    In just a moment, he stood before the bulletin board and spotted his name.

    Du¨¤nq¨ªng Cliff, Jiang Hao: Clear the Demon Cave.

    ¡°Clear the Demon Cave? A team mission. Who are the other members?¡±

    Soon, he saw the names of the other four participants:

    <ul>

    <li>Qing Xue from Tianhuan Pavilion</li>

    <li>Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion</li>

    <li>Xin Yuyue from Thunderfire Peak</li>

    <li>Zheng Shijiu from Ice Moon Valley</li>

    </ul>

    ¡°Two from Tianhuan Pavilion. I wonder what their cultivation levels are.¡±

    Staring at the names, Jiang Hao started to ponder.

    He hadn¡¯t had much contact with Thunderfire Peak or Ice Moon Valley, so he likely hadn¡¯t made enemies there. But the two from Tianhuan Pavilion gave him considerable pressure.

    Finally, he glanced at the mission timeline: the end of next month.

    There were forty-five days left.

    ¡°It looks like I¡¯ll need to advance to the late Foundation Establishment stage first, stabilize my cultivation, and spend a month earning spirit stones to purchase a powerful offensive artifact.

    That¡¯ll leave half a month to practice.

    As for spells¡­ Hongmeng Heart Sutra doesn¡¯t have anything suitable. I¡¯ll need to consult Master.¡±

    Although his master didn¡¯t hold him in high regard, some assistance would likely still be given.

    This trip to the Demon Cave was bound to involve Tianhuan Pavilion causing trouble. His master surely understood this, so helping him wasn¡¯t out of the question.

    The Demon Cave was a hidden paradise where many sect experts cultivated.

    It was said to have once been under demonic control, with its inhabitants now sealed in the depths. Even if they managed to escape, their cultivation would be limited to the Foundation Establishment stage.

    Sect experts wouldn¡¯t bother with such trivial threats, leaving the task to inner disciples.

    The cleanup process generally lasted one to three months, depending on progress.

    Rewards were distributed based on performance.

    In truth, it was an excellent training ground.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    Had he not offended Tianhuan Pavilion, Jiang Hao would have been quite eager to go.

    Killing demons not only increased combat experience but also offered the potential for bubble drops.

    Afterward, he turned to leave, intending to gather information about his teammates¡¯ strength to prepare in advance.

    ¡°Junior Brother, we meet again.¡±

    As Jiang Hao was leaving, a young woman in a green robe suddenly appeared in front of him.

    ¡°Sister Mingyi,¡± Jiang Hao greeted politely.

    This woman was a candidate saintess of the Heavenly Sacred Sect, at the early Golden Core stage.

    She was also an undercover agent¡ªa highly dangerous one.

    Thankfully, after the last traitor purge, these infiltrators had quieted down.

    Furthermore, the emergence of the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower had made them wary, even fearful.

    Everyone knew it was a trap.

    Except for one bold woman, no one else dared take the bait.

    ¡°Junior Brother is too polite. I saw your name on the list. Are you headed to the Demon Cave?¡± Mingyi said with a warm smile.

    With her sweet appearance and gentle demeanor, Sister Mingyi seemed like a ray of sunshine. But Jiang Hao knew she was ruthless and cunning, someone not to be crossed.

    A Golden Core expert was an insurmountable mountain for him.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Jiang Hao nodded calmly. ¡°I¡¯ll be heading there at the end of next month.¡±

    ¡°This is for you. I just happened to acquire it. Consider it a token of thanks for your help last time.

    Oh, and if I run into trouble in the future, I hope Junior Brother won¡¯t refuse to lend a hand. Bye-bye!¡±

    Without waiting for a response, Sister Mingyi placed a slip of paper in his hand and left swiftly.

    Jiang Hao was momentarily puzzled but then opened the slip¡ªand a smile spread across his face.

    The undercover agents really did treat him well.

    The slip detailed the strength and background of the four teammates:

    <ul>

    <li>Qing Xue from Tianhuan Pavilion: Late Foundation Establishment, close to breakthrough. Master of the Heavenly Immortal Dao, whose cold demeanor often lures others into her charms.</li>

    <li>Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion: Mid Foundation Establishment, close to breakthrough. Master of the Fallen Immortal Dao, skilled at subtly disrupting others¡¯ minds.</li>

    <li>Xin Yuyue from Thunderfire Peak: Early Foundation Establishment. Master of the Heavenly Fire Thunder Sword, excels at summoning lightning¡ªcounteracts the Fallen Immortal Dao.</li>

    <li>Zheng Shijiu from Ice Moon Valley: Late Foundation Establishment. Master of Thousand Miles of Ice, ruthless and disdainful of Tianhuan Pavilion.</li>

    </ul>

    Studying the information, Jiang Hao found it odd.

    The first two would undoubtedly target him, but the latter two seemed perfectly suited to counter them.

    ¡°Is someone helping me?¡±

    His first thought was of his master.

    While Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t particularly valuable, he wasn¡¯t entirely without worth either.

    This arrangement seemed balanced¡ªit avoided outright conflict with Tianhuan Pavilion while offering some protection for the sect¡¯s disciple.

    As for Tianhuan Pavilion¡¯s grudge against him, it largely hinged on whether they could find a new furnace.

    If they succeeded, Jiang Hao wouldn¡¯t be worth further trouble. But if they failed and their breakthrough was jeopardized...

    He¡¯d have to flee for his life, as the pavilion master would go berserk.

    Even revealing his true cultivation might not ensure his safety.

    And if his secrets were exposed, the Devil Sect¡¯s tolerance for him was questionable.

    Even his Nine-Turn Death Substitute had uncertain limits.

    ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t Junior Brother Jiang Hao from Du¨¤nq¨ªng Cliff.¡±

    A mocking voice suddenly called out.

    Jiang Hao looked up to see a disheveled man with bloodshot eyes and a faintly hostile aura walking toward him.

    The man was in the mid Foundation Establishment stage.

    ¡°And you are, Senior Brother?¡± Jiang Hao asked politely, snapping back to reality.

    ¡°Next month, we¡¯re heading to the Demon Cave together. Make sure you¡¯re well-prepared.¡± Lou Feng stopped beside Jiang Hao, patted his shoulder, and sneered.

    ¡°With that frail body of yours, you might die the moment you step in. Don¡¯t blame your Senior Brother for not saving you when it happens.¡±

    With a burst of laughter, Lou Feng walked away.

    Jiang Hao lowered his gaze and thought to himself, ¡°So that¡¯s Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion.¡±

 26: The Treatment of True Disciples is Truly Great

    After returning to Duanqing Cliff, Jiang Hao began to think about Tianhuan Pavilion.

    He had killed Senior Sister Yun Ruo, which certainly offended Tianhuan Pavilion, but not everyone would want him dead.

    If everyone wanted to take action, it was more likely that Tianhuan Pavilion had given an intentional or unintentional order.

    So, in normal circumstances, the people who would want to kill him could only be one of two types: first, those trying to please the Pavilion Master, and second, those influenced by Yun Ruo¡¯s charms.

    Either way, both were dangerous.

    ¡°This trip to the Demon Cave will be highly risky. I need to reach the late Foundation Establishment stage as soon as possible to ensure my own safety.¡±

    ¡°I already have defensive talismans, but I still need an offensive talisman.¡±

    ¡°And a more powerful attack technique.¡±

    The Hongmeng Heart Sutra has its own techniques, but so far, none have been unlocked.

    His cultivation was not yet sufficient.

    After tending to the spiritual herb garden, Jiang Hao went to find his master, Ku Wu Chang.

    ¡°Techniques?¡± Upon hearing Jiang Hao''s request, Ku Wu Chang didn¡¯t waste words.

    ¡°What kind of technique do you want to learn?¡±

    ¡°One with great power,¡± Jiang Hao replied.

    ¡°Do you use a blade?¡± Ku Wu Chang asked.

    ¡°I can use one,¡± Jiang Hao answered immediately.

    He hadn¡¯t specialized in any particular weapon. Daggers and spiritual swords¡ªhe had used them both. But they were just tools, nothing more.

    ¡°Good. Then I¡¯ll teach you the Demon Sound Slash.¡± Ku Wu Chang said, and then, with two fingers, he touched Jiang Hao¡¯s forehead.

    Immediately, a flurry of blade images appeared in Jiang Hao¡¯s mind.

    Thunder roared, and storms raged.

    Then the images vanished.

    Jiang Hao snapped back to reality, and Ku Wu Chang handed him a book.

    ¡°Take this back and study it. You have good talent, you should be able to learn it in about a month.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Master.¡± Jiang Hao took the book and left.

    Just as he was about to leave, he saw Han Ming and other senior disciples entering.

    ¡°You want to learn an attack technique? I¡¯ll teach you the Heavenly Thunder Sword. Learn it well with me, and don¡¯t leave until you do,¡± came Ku Wu Chang¡¯s stern voice.

    Jiang Hao glanced at them but didn¡¯t pay much attention. He quickly left.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

    He needed to go back and study the Demon Sound Slash.

    As for what he had just heard, it didn¡¯t concern him. He was just one of many inner disciples. But Han Ming and the others were True Disciples. Their treatment was naturally different.

    He couldn¡¯t help but think to himself, The treatment for True Disciples is really good.

    Back at his residence, Jiang Hao looked at the Tianxiang Dao Flower.

    ¡°I need to go to Baiyue Lake soon. It wouldn¡¯t be good to leave this flower here unattended while I¡¯m gone.¡±

    Then, he entered his training room and activated the Empty Mind, Pure Heart technique. In an instant, he felt his mind clear and his thoughts sharp.

    Everything seemed easy to understand, and he could absorb knowledge at an incredibly fast rate.

    He opened the book and began studying the Demon Sound Slash.

    For the next seven days, Jiang Hao focused entirely on mastering the technique.

    On the eighth day, he mentally rehearsed everything in his mind.

    Then, he went to the riverbank, picked up a stick, and instantly swung it.

    Boom!

    The sound of a rolling sonic boom followed, and a blade of energy shot out.

    The blade¡¯s shadow stretched for ten meters, cutting through the air.

    Boom!

    The river exploded, and the surrounding rocks and sand were flung into the air.

    The impact left deep scars on the ground.

    Jiang Hao smiled slightly.

    ¡°It¡¯s done. The power is pretty good. Seven days isn¡¯t bad.¡±

    Given his talent, it would normally take over a month to learn the technique. But with the help of the Empty Mind, Pure Heart technique, his talent was enhanced, allowing him to learn it in seven days.

    ¡°Now, I just need a proper blade. I¡¯ll gather enough spiritual stones in a month and buy one.¡±

    In the past seven days, he hadn¡¯t crafted any spiritual talismans or sold any. Apart from the Ten Thousand Swords Talisman that Senior Sister Leng Tian wanted, he hadn¡¯t sold anything else.

    All his time was spent mastering the Demon Sound Slash. Therefore, he still only had over 400 spiritual stones.

    It wasn¡¯t a small amount, but for life-saving tools, it wasn¡¯t enough.

    The best magical items for the Foundation Establishment stage cost far more than a few hundred spiritual stones.

    He couldn¡¯t earn that much yet.

    He threw the stick aside and walked to the courtyard. These past few days, he had noticed something.

    The Snow Lotus flower produced a spiritual bubble every three days, possibly related to vitality or cultivation.

    It wasn¡¯t as frequent as the Tianxiang Dao Flower, which produced two bubbles per day, but it was still much better than before.

    As for the Blue Lotus Flower, it had bloomed, but on the first day, it only produced a green bubble, and the rest were just white bubbles.

    It was better than nothing, and useful for the Gathering Spirit Array.

    At this point, Jiang Hao glanced at his status panel:

    [Vitality: 99/100 (Can Cultivate)]

    [Cultivation: 100/100 (Can Cultivate)]

    He was just one point away from reaching full vitality.

    By tomorrow at the latest, he would be able to start advancing.

    At the spiritual herb garden, Jiang Hao looked around and noticed a blue bubble.

    He quickly walked over and watched as the surrounding bubbles gathered and merged.

    [Vitality +1]

    [Mental Strength +1]

    [Strength +1]

    [Strength +1]

    [Strength +1]

    Feeling the increase in his strength, Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t help but feel pleased.

    Of course, the most important thing was that his vitality was now full.

    Tonight, he could begin his cultivation breakthrough.

    After finishing up with the spiritual herb garden, Jiang Hao instructed the outer disciples to take care of it.

    Not only was he eager to advance, but in just over a month, he would be heading to the Demon Cave.

    Someone else would need to take over the management in the meantime.

    When the inner disciples came to check, they would just be going through the motions. The real work was left to the outer disciples, reducing the risk of problems.

    Jiang Hao also made a quick trip to Baiyue Lake. He didn¡¯t see Elder Bai Zhi, but Senior Sister Zhou Chan passed on a message with only four words: Don¡¯t worry about it.

    It seemed that whether he was there or not, it was all the same.

    He didn¡¯t need to worry anymore.

    Returning to his residence, Jiang Hao checked the area to ensure there were no problems before entering his training room to focus on his cultivation.

    He wasn¡¯t sure if he could reach the late Foundation Establishment stage in one go, but once the time to advance came, he couldn¡¯t delay.

    The surging vitality and spiritual energy began to fill his meridians, and purple energy swirled within his veins, guiding the flow.

    It seemed even smoother than before.

 27: Broke

    As the blood vitality and spiritual energy surged into his body, Jiang Hao felt that the purple energy had no impact.

    The Hongmeng Heart Sutra continued to run smoothly.

    At this moment, spiritual energy flowed toward the Tianhui and then descended to his dantian.

    Within the dantian, the spiritual energy gathered and compressed, as if it were striking a barrier.

    Crack!

    Boom!

    Under intense compression, the spiritual energy became even more pure and massive.

    Jiang Hao finally sighed in relief and continued to circulate his energy.

    The remaining twenty or so points of spiritual energy and vitality were absorbed into his body.

    He needed to consolidate his cultivation to be prepared for anything that might come.

    The next day.

    Jiang Hao opened his eyes, raised his hand, and clenched his fist. The strength he felt delighted him. After so many years at Tianyin Sect, only strength gave him a sense of security.

    Here, without power, one could only be slaughtered by others, without the ability to say "no."

    Now, having reached the late stage of Foundation Establishment, although he was still not very strong, he had taken one more step toward becoming powerful.

    His trip to the Demon Cave would now be slightly easier.

    However, it was still not enough¡ªhe had too few advantages.

    He went to the courtyard and collected several bubbles.

    [Cultivation +1]

    [Vitality +1]

    [Strength +1]

    The strength came from the Blue Lotus Flower.

    He stepped outside and tested his punches.

    Boom!

    The boulder cracked apart.

    This was the power of his physical body.

    It came from his vitality and the daily strength he had gained.

    ¡°Looks like, even if I lose all my cultivation, I¡¯ll still have decent fighting power.¡±

    Day after day of collecting white bubbles had indeed brought significant benefits.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    He practiced the Demon Sound Slash for a while, then went to the spiritual herb garden, continuing his routine.

    For the next month, no one disturbed him.

    During this time, he spent almost all his time in his residence.

    While mastering the Demon Sound Slash, he also read the unnamed manual. Now he was much more adept at controlling his power.

    His strength had improved slightly.

    He had to admit that the manual that woman gave him was a treasure.

    At night, he began crafting talismans.

    The most common ones were ÄýÉñ·û (Focus Talismans) and Éñ½£·û (Divine Sword Talismans).

    He also frequently crafted the Ten Thousand Sword Talisman, though he hadn¡¯t sold any yet.

    These talismans had good attack power and might be helpful when he went to the Demon Cave.

    He had prepared fifteen of them.

    The rest he sold.

    In a month¡¯s time, he had accumulated 723 spiritual stones.

    It wasn¡¯t a lot of money for the month.

    Business hadn¡¯t been great, and some of the Ten Thousand Sword Talismans were used up as well.

    Today, after leaving the spiritual herb garden, Jiang Hao planned to buy a magic weapon.

    ¡°Seven days left before the Demon Cave. I can''t wait any longer.¡±

    In the last seven days, he needed to refine his magic weapon, or it wouldn¡¯t unleash its full potential.

    But there was one thing he hesitated about.

    He glanced at his status panel.

    [Name: Jiang Hao]

    [Age: 20]

    [Cultivation: Late Foundation Establishment]

    [Cultivation Techniques: Tianyin Bai Zhuan, Hongmeng Heart Sutra]

    [Divine Powers: Nine Turns of Death Substitution (Unique), Daily Identification, Empty Mind Clear Heart]

    [Vitality: 46/100 (Can Cultivate)]

    [Cultivation: 51/100 (Can Cultivate)]

    [Divine Powers: 1/3 (Unavailable)]

    His vitality and cultivation were both nearly halfway full. Should he wait until they''re full to attempt a breakthrough, or should he cultivate now?

    After thinking for a moment, Jiang Hao decided to wait.

    His cultivation was already solid, and trying to cultivate now wouldn¡¯t help much.

    ¡°The chances of them taking action directly in the Demon Cave are low. That gives me time to clear out demons and continue to accumulate my cultivation.¡±

    With his decision made, Jiang Hao headed to the Sect¡¯s market.

    He stood in front of Xingchen Tower for a moment, observing. It seemed much more grand than Xuelian Pavilion.

    ¡°Foundation Establishment grade magic weapons?¡±

    Upon hearing Jiang Hao¡¯s request, the guiding fairy led him inside.

    ¡°Senior Brother, follow me.¡±

    After a moment, the guiding fairy displayed three blades before Jiang Hao.

    The first one was entirely crimson, about three fingers wide, with a blade length of three feet.

    The second one shimmered with light, about two fingers wide, a short sword about one foot long.

    The third one was entirely black, about three fingers wide, with a blade length of two feet.

    ¡°First is the Li¨¨y¨¢ng Sword, which contains immense fiery power. Its blade emits intense heat, making it extremely deadly. It costs 888 spiritual stones.¡±

    ¡°The second is the Q¨©c¨£i Zh¨£n Yu¨¨ Sword, a sword that leaves no trace, containing seven-colored sub-blades that can kill silently. It costs 1,100 spiritual stones.¡±

    ¡°The third is the Dark Shadow Sword, which is invisible and intangible at night. It¡¯s difficult to track. Its power isn¡¯t as great as the first two, but it¡¯s extremely durable due to its material. It costs 830 spiritual stones.¡±

    Jiang Hao picked up the Dark Shadow Sword since it was the cheapest.

    What he really wanted was the Q¨©c¨£i Zh¨£n Yu¨¨ Sword.

    But it was too expensive.

    In the end, he bought the Dark Shadow Sword for 723 spiritual stones¡ªthis was his limit.

    He couldn¡¯t afford more.

    After purchasing the sword, he sold some talismans and managed to keep around 20-30 spiritual stones on hand.

    Afterward, apart from tending to the spiritual herb garden, he focused entirely on getting used to the Dark Shadow Sword.

    At night, he swung the sword, creating a massive shockwave.

    Boom!

    The blade swept across, causing massive destruction.

    Looking at the power of the Demon Sound Slash, Jiang Hao felt that the sword was worth it.

    However, the two techniques didn¡¯t quite match.

    The Dark Shadow Sword was suited for assassination.

    The Demon Sound Slash was too flashy.

    But the power was indeed strong.

    ¡°Put it away. I can surprise them with it.¡±

    With that thought, Jiang Hao sheathed the sword.

    He glanced up at the sky, where the sun was slowly rising.

    Today was the day he would enter the Demon Cave.

    Whether he would come back was still in question.

 28: An Unexpected Turn

    After setting up a basic formation, Jiang Hao left his courtyard.

    Due to the presence of the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower, he couldn¡¯t trust anyone else to watch over his spiritual herbs. He was worried something might go wrong¡ªnot just with the flower, but also with people.

    There was always the risk of theft or even being killed.

    His courtyard was constantly under watch. The moment he left, someone might try to make a move.

    ¡°I wonder if that woman will come. If she thinks I¡¯ve fled, will she take the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower with her?¡±

    Jiang Hao pushed the thought aside. That woman was a ¡°big fish,¡± and Elder Bai Zhi was surely already taking action.

    He could only rely on himself for now.

    At this point, he glanced at the values on his panel.

    <ul>

    <li>Vitality: 56/100</li>

    <li>Cultivation: 61/100</li>

    </ul>

    ¡°Over halfway. I wonder if I¡¯ll have the chance to reach 100. If I do, I¡¯ll need a quiet place to advance.¡±

    This was his final trump card.

    Before leaving Du¨¤nq¨ªng Cliff, Jiang Hao made a trip to his master¡¯s residence, intending to bid farewell.

    Unfortunately, his master wasn¡¯t there.

    After a brief moment of hesitation, Jiang Hao headed toward the Law Enforcement Peak.

    ¡°Junior Brother, ready to set out?¡±

    Liu Xingchen approached as Jiang Hao arrived.

    ¡°Good morning, Senior Brother,¡± Jiang Hao replied politely.

    He found the situation amusing. Even the undercover agents seemed concerned about him now. Perhaps they all wanted him to survive, though he couldn¡¯t figure out why.

    ¡°Junior Brother, your situation isn¡¯t looking good,¡± Liu Xingchen said as he walked alongside Jiang Hao.

    The two of them headed toward the sect¡¯s mission assembly point.

    ¡°I saw the roster. The strongest is in the late Foundation Establishment stage. There¡¯s also another late-stage cultivator who doesn¡¯t get along with Tianhuan Pavilion. That should work in my favor,¡± Jiang Hao said.

    ¡°True. Originally, Tianhuan Pavilion assigned one mid-stage and one late-stage cultivator. But then something unexpected happened.¡± Liu Xingchen sighed.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

    ¡°They were replaced?¡± Jiang Hao asked in surprise.

    ¡°No,¡± Liu Xingchen shook his head. ¡°They advanced.¡±

    Jiang Hao froze upon hearing this, a sense of foreboding washing over him.

    He suddenly remembered the slip of paper mentioning the phrase ¡°close to breakthrough¡± for two of the individuals.

    So, the mid-stage and late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators had now become late-stage and perfected Foundation Establishment cultivators?

    This was bad news.

    ¡°Thank you for the warning, Senior Brother.¡± Jiang Hao quickly expressed his gratitude.

    Liu Xingchen nodded and walked off without saying anything further.

    ¡°I need to find a way to quickly accumulate enough cultivation and vitality, then attempt a breakthrough,¡± Jiang Hao thought to himself.

    At the mission assembly point, Jiang Hao saw the four teammates.

    There was a cold and elegant woman in white and a ferocious man in black with a savage glint in his eyes.

    Opposite them stood a refined man in white holding a paper fan, with a woman in blue by his side, her sword drawn as she cast a provocative gaze at the other two.

    Qing Xue and Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion, Zheng Shijiu from Ice Moon Valley, and Xin Yuyue from Thunderfire Peak.

    Although these four clearly didn¡¯t get along, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t think he could form alliances with Zheng Shijiu or Xin Yuyue either.

    When he arrived, all four of them turned to look at him.

    Some were observing him, some were disdainful, and some wore mocking expressions.

    Under their gazes, Jiang Hao stepped forward and said politely:

    ¡°Greetings, Senior Brothers and Sisters. Apologies for being late.¡±

    In truth, it was they who had arrived too early.

    ¡°You¡¯re not late; you¡¯re just in time,¡± Lou Feng said with a smile that seemed to have been waiting for this moment for a long time.

    ¡°Then let¡¯s set out,¡± Zheng Shijiu said coolly.

    ¡°Yeah, staying with people from Tianhuan Pavilion for too long is disgusting,¡± Xin Yuyue said with a look of disdain.

    Jiang Hao nodded slightly, choosing to remain silent.

    ¡®The two from Tianhuan Pavilion are concealing their cultivation. They haven¡¯t revealed their new stages.¡¯

    Thanks to his understanding of the Nameless Secret Manual, Jiang Hao could now discern that the two had hidden their true cultivation levels.

    For safety, he decided to appraise Qing Xue.

    <ul>

    <li>Qing Xue: Disciple of Tianhuan Pavilion under Tianyin Sect. Perfected Foundation Establishment. Holds a deep hatred for you due to her obsession with her master.</li>

    </ul>

    Jiang Hao: ¡°¡­¡±

    A lunatic.

    That was the only thought he had.

    In the Devil Sect, it seemed normalcy was the rarest trait among disciples.

    By noon, they arrived at the entrance to the Demon Cave.

    The Demon Cave was located at the center of Tianyin Sect¡¯s main lake.

    Inside was an expansive world of its own. Since the entrance was within the sect¡¯s territory, the cave was considered part of the sect.

    ¡°I heard most of the demons inside are at the early or mid Foundation Establishment stages. Let¡¯s split up and act separately,¡± Qing Xue said coldly.

    Lou Feng nodded in agreement. ¡°I support that.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so,¡± Zheng Shijiu interjected, shaking his head. ¡°At the beginning, the number of demons is high. If we stick together, we¡¯ll not only have enough firepower, but we can also watch each other¡¯s backs.

    If we split up and encounter rare late-stage or perfected Foundation Establishment demons, it¡¯ll be certain death. Splitting up right away is just seeking death.¡±

    ¡°I agree with Senior Brother Zheng,¡± Xin Yuyue chimed in.

    ¡°I agree with Senior Brother Zheng as well,¡± Jiang Hao said without hesitation.

    Sticking with the group was the only viable option for now. He wasn¡¯t capable of facing perfected Foundation Establishment demons on his own.

    He had come prepared, but so had the others.

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll clean up most of the demons first, then split up to hunt the stragglers,¡± Qing Xue said coldly, glaring at Zheng Shijiu.

    Jiang Hao could clearly sense her displeasure, but this wasn¡¯t the time to worry about that.

    He needed time¡ªand plenty of demons to slay.

 Chapter 29: Losing Control

    Inside the Demon Cavern.

    The group of five walked across a grassy plain. Contrary to expectations, they weren¡¯t in a dark cave but beneath a bright, expansive sky. Above them, a shimmering, wave-like light moved, vast and boundless.

    The ground resembled the outside world, with mountains, rivers, flowers, and trees.

    Now, they were walking at the edge of a forest, where a pillar of light pierced the heavens in the far distance.

    Within the glow, it seemed like stars were falling¡ªa breathtaking spectacle.

    ¡°The core of the Demon Cavern,¡± Jiang Hao thought to himself.

    According to sect records, the core was a sealed area forbidden to anyone.

    ¡°This is my first time in the Demon Cavern. I didn¡¯t expect such a pleasant environment,¡± Xin Yuyue of Thunderfire Peak remarked with amazement.

    ¡°Indeed, the environment here is surprisingly good, but it¡¯s equally dangerous,¡± Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion said, glancing at Jiang Hao with a faint smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that if someone dies here, the Law Enforcement Hall won¡¯t even bother to investigate.¡±

    Jiang Hao lowered his eyes. Lou Feng was clearly threatening him.

    He remained calm. In situations like this, staying composed and finding an opportunity to resolve the crisis was crucial.

    The first step was to find a demon and kill it.

    Cultivating spiritual herbs and slaying beasts both produced bubbles. Beast kills yielded immediate rewards, so Jiang Hao wanted to confirm what demon kills would yield.

    ¡°It¡¯s eerily quiet,¡± Zheng Shijiu of Bingyue Valley remarked, frowning as he scanned the surroundings.

    ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s unusually calm. Normally, we¡¯d encounter plenty of demons by now,¡± Qing Xue from Tianhuan Pavilion added.

    Despite their individual motives, none of them were willing to take risks lightly.

    The group pressed forward into the forest, remaining vigilant. Jiang Hao¡¯s perception was second only to Qing Xue¡¯s, but he kept that fact hidden.

    Suddenly, Jiang Hao turned his gaze to the left.

    ¡°They¡¯re coming,¡± Qing Xue announced.

    Whoosh!

    A massive boulder hurtled through the air, crashing into the ground and leaving a deep crater.

    Before it landed, the group scattered in all directions.

    At that moment, a surge of flames shot toward the source of the attack.

    Boom!

    An explosion erupted.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    It was Xin Yuyue who attacked, her power immense. Jiang Hao realized she was close to advancing to the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.

    Roar!

    A furious roar echoed as three hulking figures charged toward them.

    As they approached, Jiang Hao saw their forms clearly. They resembled gorillas, covered in fur, with twisted and feral faces.

    Without hesitation, Jiang Hao rushed forward. Judging by their aura, they were only at the early stage of Foundation Establishment.

    Drawing his long blade, he leaped into the fray, slashing down.

    Clang!

    Sparks flew, but the blade failed to pierce the demon¡¯s skin.

    ¡°So tough?¡±

    Shocked, Jiang Hao abandoned the blade and spun around, pulling out a dagger and driving it into the demon¡¯s neck.

    Squish.

    The dagger sank in with difficulty, and blood began to flow.

    Roar!

    The demon howled in rage, but Jiang Hao struck the hilt of the dagger, driving it fully through its neck.

    The demon fell lifelessly to the ground, and two blue bubbles emerged from its body.

    They instantly merged into Jiang Hao.

    [Blood Qi +1][Cultivation +1]

    ¡°Two bubbles?¡±

    This was the first time he had seen such a yield from killing a beast. He glanced at the other two demons, who were already dead but left no bubbles behind¡ªjust as he had anticipated.

    Earlier, he had considered delivering the final blow to ensure he got a share of the rewards.

    ¡°It seems Junior Brother has a knack for targeting necks,¡± Lou Feng said with a smile, having just sliced a demon in half.

    ¡°You¡¯re joking, Senior Brother. These demons have tougher hides than expected. Their necks are slightly weaker,¡± Jiang Hao replied softly.

    Although the records provided information about demons, their actual toughness exceeded expectations.

    Reviewing the earlier fight, Jiang Hao concluded that using his Demonic Sound Slash technique would be an effective way to bypass the demons¡¯ defenses.

    Against one or two demons, it might not matter much, but larger groups would be a significant threat.

    Moreover, Jiang Hao had another pressing concern¡ªhe needed to kill fifty demons to ensure his survival upon leaving the cavern.

    Otherwise, the two Tianhuan Pavilion disciples would never let him walk out alive.

    ¡°So their necks are weak points,¡± Xin Yuyue remarked, stabbing her sword into a demon¡¯s neck. ¡°It¡¯s really easier to wound them there.¡±

    ¡°We need to stay alert,¡± Zheng Shijiu cautioned. ¡°The fact that they attacked us on sight means they see this as their territory. Since they came in threes, it¡¯s likely most groups nearby will be three or four strong.¡±

    ¡°Perfect. Let¡¯s clear them out. Once we¡¯ve dealt with the groups, we can hunt the stragglers,¡± Qing Xue said coldly, leading the way.

    The others followed, Jiang Hao included.

    He contemplated how to kill more demons as quickly as possible.

    Soon, they encountered another group of demons¡ªfour this time, with one at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.

    Without hesitation, Jiang Hao avoided the mid-stage demon and focused on the other three.

    In quick succession, he killed two demons with his dagger, earning three bubbles.

    [Cultivation +1][Blood Qi +1][Blood Qi +1]

    ¡°It seems the rewards aren¡¯t consistent. I¡¯ll need to increase the kill count,¡± Jiang Hao thought grimly.

    He fought even more fiercely, determined to harvest as much as possible.

    A month passed this way. During this time, the group stuck together, keeping Jiang Hao relatively safe. The Tianhuan Pavilion disciples wouldn¡¯t openly harm a fellow sect member with others present¡ªunless they killed everyone else, which would absolve them of guilt.

    [Cultivation +1]

    Watching another demon fall before him, Jiang Hao grew increasingly uneasy.

    After a month of daily battles, he had initially gained many bubbles, but now they were dwindling.

    Not only were there fewer demons, but Lou Feng also seemed determined to outdo him, intercepting his kills at every opportunity.

    Lou Feng had even stopped concealing his advanced cultivation.

    As the demon numbers thinned, the group would soon have to split up.

    Jiang Hao still wasn¡¯t ready.

    His progress was close, but not enough:

    [Blood Qi: 95/100 (Ready to Cultivate)][Cultivation: 96/100 (Ready to Cultivate)]

 Chapter 30: It Seems Junior Brother Jiang Will Stay in the Demon Cavern Forever

    Roar!

    Another demon appeared.

    Just as Jiang Hao was about to act, Lou Feng from Tianhuan Pavilion moved first.

    With a single slash¡ª

    Boom!

    The demon was killed on the spot.

    Jiang Hao could only watch.

    "Junior Brother Jiang seems very enthusiastic about killing demons. Unfortunately, so am I. I wonder who will end up killing more," Lou Feng said with a grin, his expression twisted.

    From the second day of their time here, Jiang Hao had sized him up.

    This man wasn''t acting on behalf of Tianhuan Pavilion. He was doing this solely because of Senior Sister Yunruo.

    Lou Feng was madly in love with her.

    For reasons unknown, he blamed Jiang Hao for her death and was now bent on revenge.

    "Why isn¡¯t Junior Brother saying anything?" Lou Feng''s eyes widened with a ferocious and bloodthirsty glint.

    "His hatred is growing stronger, making him increasingly unstable," Jiang Hao thought, feeling a tinge of unease.

    It wasn¡¯t just Jiang Hao who was worried¡ªZheng Shijiu was also on edge. If Lou Feng lost control, he might attack everyone present.

    And he was already at the late Foundation Establishment stage.

    Even Xin Yuyue, though capable of suppressing him with her abilities, would lose her edge given the gap in their strength.

    At that moment, Qing Xue from Tianhuan Pavilion spoke up:

    "We haven¡¯t encountered any groups of demons for quite some time now. It seems there aren¡¯t many left. How about we split up and search?"

    Hearing this suggestion, everyone sighed in relief.

    Even Jiang Hao felt the tension ease.

    He was deeply worried Lou Feng might suddenly attack. If his own cultivation level¡ªalso at late Foundation Establishment¡ªwas exposed, Qing Xue would certainly try to kill him.

    With his cultivation nearly at its peak, this was no time for conflict.

    Although splitting up was dangerous, it would give him time to break through.

    Zheng Shijiu, well aware of the grudge between Jiang Hao and Tianhuan Pavilion, didn¡¯t want to get involved.

    The stakes were too high.

    "Anyone opposed?" Qing Xue asked again.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

    "What do you think, Junior Brother Jiang?" Zheng Shijiu turned to Jiang Hao.

    "That sounds reasonable," Jiang Hao replied calmly.

    His composure in such a tense moment earned Zheng Shijiu¡¯s admiration.

    Meanwhile, Lou Feng grinned, as if relishing the freedom to act.

    "Which direction will you go, Junior Brother?" Zheng Shijiu offered Jiang Hao the first choice, adding, "Let¡¯s make sure we don¡¯t go in the same direction. That way, we can cover more ground."

    After agreeing on a meeting point, Jiang Hao headed deeper into the cavern. Picking first had its pros and cons:

    The advantage was that with Zheng Shijiu watching, others wouldn¡¯t dare follow him. The downside was that everyone knew his chosen direction.

    But as long as he moved quickly enough, the advantages would outweigh the risks.

    Once out of sight, Jiang Hao veered off course, accelerating to his full speed, unleashing power that far exceeded that of a late Foundation Establishment cultivator.

    After Jiang Hao departed, Zheng Shijiu turned to the two from Tianhuan Pavilion. Without a word, they each chose a different path.

    Where they actually went, no one could say.

    "Senior Brother Zheng, I¡¯ve heard you don¡¯t get along with Tianhuan Pavilion. Why didn¡¯t you disrupt their plans this time?" Xin Yuyue asked with a smile.

    "It¡¯s not that I didn¡¯t want to," Zheng Shijiu sighed. "One of them is at Foundation Establishment Perfection, and the other is at the late stage. I¡¯m no match for them."

    "Tianhuan Pavilion really is shameless," Xin Yuyue sneered.

    "They¡¯re furious, but Duanqing Cliff hasn¡¯t shown much concern. That¡¯s why Tianhuan Pavilion has the upper hand this time.

    "Also, I¡¯ve heard Junior Brother Jiang only advanced through the use of rare treasures. That¡¯s why he¡¯s still an inner disciple. If he were a core disciple, things wouldn¡¯t be this way." Zheng Shijiu shook his head, sounding regretful.

    "True," Xin Yuyue said, dropping the subject. She was curious, though.

    "In the end, only four of us will likely make it out, right?"

    "Yes, chances are high that Junior Brother Jiang won¡¯t be among them," Zheng Shijiu replied.

    "Is there no way for him to escape?" Xin Yuyue asked.

    "Unlikely," Zheng Shijiu said after sensing the area. "Lou Feng¡¯s aura is already chaotic, and he¡¯s heading straight for Jiang Hao."

    After a pause, Zheng Shijiu added, "Would you like to team up with me, Junior Sister, or go on your own?"

    "Thank you for the offer, Senior Brother, but I¡¯d prefer to train by myself," Xin Yuyue said with a polite smile.

    "Very well. See you in a month." With that, Zheng Shijiu chose a direction and left.

    Tianhuan Pavilion might be treacherous, but Bingyue Valley wasn¡¯t much better. Xin Yuyue had no intention of placing herself in unnecessary danger.

    As for Jiang Hao, she felt powerless to help.

    Weak cultivation and a powerful enemy¡ªperhaps an early death would be a mercy.

    Jiang Hao sped deep into the cavern as fast as possible, bypassing any demons he encountered to avoid drawing attention.

    The next day, he finally stopped by a lakeside.

    After a full day of travel, he¡¯d likely bought himself some time.

    Now, his focus was on killing demons to gather enough Qi and blood to break through.

    Without reaching Foundation Establishment Perfection, he wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against Qing Xue from Tianhuan Pavilion.

    Roar!

    A demon leapt out of the lake¡ªa mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.

    Without hesitation, Jiang Hao slew it in one strike and absorbed a bubble.

    [Cultivation +1]

    "Only one," he muttered before continuing deeper into the cavern.

    From time to time, he glanced at the area where stars seemed to fall from the sky. A sense of awe and dread kept him from approaching.

    The demons were becoming scarce. It took him three days to gather enough bubbles.

    [Blood Qi +1]

    After killing another demon, Jiang Hao sighed in relief.

    Both his Qi and cultivation had finally reached their limits.

    [Blood Qi: 100/100 (Ready to Cultivate)][Cultivation: 100/100 (Ready to Cultivate)]

    "Time to find a place to break through."

    Meanwhile, Lou Feng discovered a demon¡¯s corpse near the lake.

    Looking up the shoreline, he let out a low, sinister laugh.

    "I¡¯ve found you."

 Chapter 31: Found

    "So, you can really run."

    Luo Feng arrived at the lakeside, observing the demon corpses nearby. It had taken him days to track this trail.

    He hadn''t expected Jiang Hao to flee so far.

    Fortunately, Luo Feng had been prepared, bringing along a tracking artifact. Now that he had a trace, it was only a matter of time¡ªwithin a day, at most¡ªbefore he found his target.

    Taking out a compass-like artifact, Luo Feng began scanning the area. Before long, he had results and hurried forward in the indicated direction.

    Behind him, Qingxue from the Heavenly Joy Pavilion followed closely.

    Jiang Hao''s deliberate flight to such a distant location surprised them. He knew he was being hunted, yet he continued killing demons. There had to be a reason.

    But why?

    It was this curiosity that spurred Luo Feng to intercept and eliminate the demons himself, ensuring Jiang Hao couldn''t achieve his goals¡ªwhatever they were. Unless, of course, Jiang Hao''s purpose was to wear Luo Feng down.

    After some time, they still hadn''t caught sight of Jiang Hao. This suggested that he was maintaining a significant lead.

    The nearby demon corpses, showing signs of being killed one or two days earlier, confirmed this.

    "Something''s wrong," Luo Feng muttered, furrowing his brows. "At this pace, he could keep avoiding us indefinitely. So why kill demons? Is he luring us in, or is he trying to obtain something from the demons?

    "Even if he''s discovered, he still kills. That means what he''s after must be something he thinks he can use against us."

    The realization hit Luo Feng hard. He needed to find Jiang Hao fast before the situation spiraled out of control.

    If he had already made a move, it had to be decisive and eliminate all future threats.

    Nightfall.

    Jiang Hao sat cross-legged inside the hollow trunk of a massive tree, a temporary hiding spot he''d chosen.

    Mountains were rare in the demonic cave, and there were no caves to be found. The best hiding places were within large trees.

    At this moment, Jiang Hao was attempting to break through to the Foundation Establishment Pinnacle stage.

    If accumulating 100 points of cultivation and blood energy wasn¡¯t enough to achieve a breakthrough, his situation would become perilous.

    He knew that the Heavenly Joy Pavilion cultivators would likely find him within a day or two, especially if they were prepared and not fools.

    When that happened, he would have to face both a late Foundation Establishment cultivator and one at the pinnacle of Foundation Establishment. His chances of escaping would be slim.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    His only choice was to gamble on successfully breaking through.

    The odds were in his favor¡ªprevious attempts had not required him to fully deplete his reserves of cultivation and blood energy.

    Currently, the violet energy within him was guiding his spiritual power and blood energy, attempting to shatter the bottleneck. Jiang Hao remained calm, focusing on condensing his energy into his dantian for a decisive breakthrough.

    The numbers on his system panel fluctuated continuously. His reserves of 100 had already dwindled to 27. If they dropped to zero before he succeeded, failure was certain.

    At that moment, he suddenly detected movement outside.

    The sudden noise didn''t interrupt Jiang Hao''s focus¡ªhe had to complete his breakthrough before being discovered.

    Outside, Luo Feng was searching the forest.

    He had pushed himself to the limit and finally reached this area, though there were no clear signs of Jiang Hao¡¯s presence.

    "Did I choose the wrong direction?" Luo Feng wondered.

    But every tracking method he used pointed him here, so the direction had to be correct. The question was: where was Jiang Hao hiding?

    Moving cautiously through the forest, Luo Feng remained alert.

    Behind him, Qingxue followed, ensuring they wouldn¡¯t both be caught off guard by an ambush. Jiang Hao¡¯s unusual behavior had made them wary¡ªhe couldn¡¯t be underestimated.

    "Where can someone hide in a forest? Underground? Inside a tree?" Luo Feng murmured.

    "A tree?"

    The thought made him pause. Observing the surrounding trees more carefully, he soon noticed one with faint traces of spiritual energy. It appeared to be an ordinary spiritual tree, but his suspicions led him to investigate further.

    Sensing something within, Luo Feng¡¯s eyes lit up with delight, though his doubts deepened.

    Jiang Hao was... breaking through?

    Regardless, Luo Feng knew he had to act immediately to interrupt the process.

    Clang!

    Drawing his blade, he channeled his power into it. With a leap, he swung downwards.

    "Still trying to hide?"

    Boom!

    The tree split in half, scattering debris.

    Within the wreckage, Jiang Hao¡¯s figure was revealed, still seated in meditation.

    Seeing this, Luo Feng''s face lit up with excitement. He gathered his strength for another strike, aiming directly for Jiang Hao¡¯s brow to split him in two.

    However, just as the blade neared its target, a protective phantom shield appeared, blocking the attack.

    Clang!

    The blade clashed against the shield, neither gaining the upper hand.

    "A protective treasure?" Luo Feng exclaimed, stunned.

    Undeterred, he prepared to pour more energy into his blade to shatter the defense.

    But at that moment, Jiang Hao, who had been sitting with his eyes closed, suddenly opened them.

    Their gazes met.

    Golden light erupted from Jiang Hao¡¯s cold, indifferent eyes, followed by a surge of powerful energy radiating from his body.

    Foundation Establishment Pinnacle.

    "Impossible!" Luo Feng gasped, overwhelmed by disbelief as he sensed Jiang Hao¡¯s cultivation level.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t give him time to process the situation. Drawing his Shadow Blade, he unleashed an attack.

    Demonic Sound Slash.

    Boom!

    The strike sent Luo Feng flying, even though he managed to block part of the attack.

    Crash!

    He collided with a tree, his blade shattered, and his hands bloodied. Though severely injured, he survived.

    Jiang Hao remained indifferent. The attack had been a test, and wounding Luo Feng was enough for now. Rising slowly, Jiang Hao shifted his gaze to Qingxue in the distance.

    Facing both of them together wouldn¡¯t be ideal.

    This needed to end quickly.

    Qingxue, grasping her sword, activated a series of spells and charged at Jiang Hao, her aura cold and fierce.

    Jiang Hao ignored the chill. Thankfully, the poison Gu in his body kept him from being distracted.

    Wielding his Shadow Blade, he moved to intercept her.

    Clang!

    Blade clashed against sword repeatedly, each exchange sending shockwaves rippling through the area.

    In the darkness, the two fought fiercely, their movements swift and deadly.

    Each attack aimed to kill.

    Boom!

    A powerful clash forced them apart.

    "Join forces!" Qingxue shouted to Luo Feng. "He just broke through; he won¡¯t last long."

    She couldn¡¯t believe she was struggling to defeat someone who had only just reached the pinnacle stage.

    If they didn¡¯t kill him now, the two of them would undoubtedly perish.

 Chapter 32: Slaying the Enemy

    Lou Feng stared at Jiang Hao, who had achieved the Perfect Foundation Establishment realm, still unable to believe it. However, there was no time to dwell on his disbelief.

    He had to kill Jiang Hao.

    Lou Feng spat out a mouthful of blood. With his life essence as a guide, drops of fresh blood began seeping out from his body. Each drop radiated searing energy and shot toward Jiang Hao like meteors.

    Meanwhile, Qing Xue didn¡¯t remain idle and launched her own assault.

    As the blood rained down, creating an unending bombardment, Jiang Hao had to dodge while countering the sword shadows Qing Xue sent his way.

    The blood splattered on the ground, leaving massive craters in its wake.

    Boom!Sword light swept through, shattering trees into splinters.

    Under the dark night sky, sparks erupted from clashes of blade and sword. Each move was a contest of life and death.

    Jiang Hao was besieged, and if the situation dragged on, defeat was inevitable.

    Ignoring the blood attacks, he wielded the Shadow Blade and unleashed Demonic Sound Slash, its thunderous presence directed toward Qing Xue.

    Qing Xue countered with her strongest technique.

    Boom!The blade and sword collided, their power rippling out in shockwaves, leveling the surrounding area.

    As the clash with Qing Xue continued, Lou Feng noticed most of his blood attacks being deflected by Jiang Hao''s protective artifact.

    Seizing the moment, Lou Feng infused his blade with his life essence, strengthening it before charging at Jiang Hao with terrifying speed.

    With Qing Xue attacking head-on and Lou Feng flanking, the situation seemed dire.

    Yet Jiang Hao remained calm. His gaze toward Lou Feng took on a faint purple glow, which quickly spread throughout his body.

    The blade descended.

    Jiang Hao tilted his head slightly, dodging the strike, then raised his hand and lightly tapped the blade with the back of his finger.

    Purple energy had already surged to his fingertips.

    Clang!A crisp sound echoed as the blade snapped in two.

    The broken blade flew through the air as Lou Feng realized something was amiss. However, before he could react, a purple-tinged palm struck his chest with blinding speed.

    Bang!Crack!

    The force penetrated his entire body, shattering ribs and pulverizing his internal organs.

    Splat!Lou Feng spat out blood as he was sent flying, crashing heavily onto the ground.

    Turning his gaze to Qing Xue, Jiang Hao activated the Primordial Mind Technique, fully mobilizing the purple energy. The Shadow Blade in his hand was now also enveloped in this energy.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    As he swung the blade, an overwhelming force erupted, forcing Qing Xue to retreat.

    Before she could regain her footing, Jiang Hao slashed once more, the purple-infused Demonic Sound Slash carving a perfect arc through the air.

    Whoosh!The blade light tore through everything in its path, piercing Qing Xue''s body.

    As she landed, disbelief filled her face. Her mind was consumed by a single question: Why is he so strong?

    Crack!Her sword shattered cleanly in two, falling to the ground.

    Not only that, cracks spread across her body, her life force rapidly fading.

    Seeing this, Lou Feng, who had barely gotten up, was terrified. He stumbled to his feet, attempting to flee.

    Thunk!He barely made it a few steps before the Shadow Blade pierced his neck, pinning him to a tree.

    Jiang Hao had thrown the blade.

    ¡°We¡¯re dead, and everyone will know you did it,¡± Qing Xue said, her eyes filled with unending hatred.

    ¡°Mm.¡± Jiang Hao nodded.

    ¡°I know, but no one will come to investigate. That¡¯s what you told me.¡±

    As his words fell, Jiang Hao pulled out ten Ten Thousand Sword Talismans, each carrying the power of the Foundation Establishment realm.

    Even if they were at the early Foundation Establishment stage, it was more than enough.

    He divided the talismans into two groups¡ªseven for Qing Xue, three for Lou Feng¡ªand activated them.

    In an instant, countless sword lights filled the air.

    Moments later, Jiang Hao surveyed the two areas where Qing Xue and Lou Feng had been. Their bodies were mangled beyond recognition, reduced to mere remnants.

    They were utterly dead.

    Splat!As the battle concluded, Jiang Hao spat out a mouthful of blood.

    From the beginning, his breakthrough had been forceful, leaving his body in a weakened state. The recent fight, coupled with the extreme activation of the Primordial Mind Technique, had worsened his injuries.

    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have wasted the Ten Thousand Sword Talismans and would have finished them off personally.

    With the danger averted, Jiang Hao sat cross-legged and began healing his injuries.

    However, before long, the sound of approaching footsteps broke his focus.

    Five demons had been drawn to the commotion.

    Sighing deeply, Jiang Hao muttered, ¡°Trouble never comes alone¡­¡±

    One Month Later.

    Near the exit of the Demon Cavern, Zheng Shijiu of the Ice Moon Valley stood, holding a paper fan, gazing into the distance.

    He seemed lost in thought.

    ¡°Senior Brother, you came quite early. I assume you gained quite a bit from this trip?¡± Xin Yuyue from Thunderfire Peak arrived, her sword gliding through the air.

    The Demon Cavern held numerous treasures, and with effort, one could always find something valuable.

    She had encountered her share of fortune, escaping unscathed.

    For her, the sect mission had been rewarding enough even without the official rewards.

    Zheng Shijiu smiled lightly and replied, ¡°It seems Junior Sister had good fortune. I wasn¡¯t so lucky¡ªjust some minor gains.¡±

    ¡°Senior Brother, you¡¯re too modest. By the way, I didn¡¯t encounter many demons on my way back. Not a single one near the exit. Do you think this means the mission is complete?¡± Xin Yuyue asked.

    ¡°Indeed. I didn¡¯t encounter many demons either. The real danger came from some wild beasts,¡± Zheng Shijiu replied with a nod.

    At this, Xin Yuyue turned her gaze to the distance and asked curiously, ¡°Do you think Junior Brother Jiang can make it back?¡±

    ¡°Highly unlikely,¡± Zheng Shijiu said after a brief pause.

    ¡°I actually tracked their movements and discovered that Lou Feng and Qing Xue were working together with a clear goal in mind. They likely confronted Junior Brother Jiang in the end.

    ¡°With one in the late Foundation Establishment realm and the other at the Perfect Foundation Establishment realm, even with some tricks up his sleeve, Junior Brother Jiang wouldn¡¯t have survived.¡±

    ¡°Well, nothing we can do about that,¡± Xin Yuyue said, shrugging. ¡°After all, we weren¡¯t there to witness what happened.¡±

    ¡°What if Junior Brother Jiang does make it back?¡± she asked with renewed curiosity.

    ¡°It¡¯s impossible,¡± Zheng Shijiu replied, shaking his head.

    ¡°But what if he does?¡± Xin Yuyue pressed.

    Zheng Shijiu¡¯s expression turned grim.

    ¡°If he comes back¡­ it would be a disaster.¡±

 Chapter 33: The Formidable Junior Brother Jiang

    ¡°Big trouble?¡±

    Xin Yuyue furrowed her brows, her expression filled with curiosity as she awaited her senior brother¡¯s explanation.

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Zheng Shijiu said, gazing into the distance. ¡°If those three encountered each other, only one side would have made it back. If the two from Tianhuan Pavilion returned, that wouldn¡¯t be surprising; it¡¯s only natural. But if Jiang Hao is the sole one to return¡­ what do you think that means?¡±

    ¡°Could it be that Tianhuan Pavilion failed?¡± Xin Yuyue asked.

    ¡°It¡¯s far more than just a failure. If those three crossed paths, there¡¯s almost no chance all of them made it back. If only Junior Brother Jiang returns, it¡¯s obvious... the two from Tianhuan Pavilion were killed in retaliation.¡± Zheng Shijiu¡¯s tone was serious.

    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. How could someone at the early Foundation Establishment stage kill one at the late stage and another at perfection?¡± Xin Yuyue shook her head in disbelief.

    ¡°Exactly. If that¡¯s what happened, wouldn¡¯t it be an enormous problem? It would mean that Junior Brother Jiang is capable of killing a Foundation Establishment perfection cultivator. Now tell me¡ªwouldn¡¯t he take measures to keep such a secret? Perhaps even silence us here and now? After all, killing us¡ªa mere early and late Foundation Establishment pair¡ªwouldn¡¯t be difficult for him.¡± Zheng Shijiu chuckled as he spoke.

    But before he finished, Xin Yuyue¡¯s face turned pale with fear. She tugged at her senior brother¡¯s sleeve and stammered, ¡°Senior Brother, l-look over there.¡±

    Zheng Shijiu turned to where she was pointing, puzzled by her sudden change in demeanor.

    What he saw made his pupils shrink. His heart began pounding as if faced with an overwhelming threat.

    A young man was emerging from the forest with calm, steady steps. His aura was tranquil, devoid of any obvious emotion or fluctuation.

    It was Jiang Hao.

    ¡°Senior Brother, what do we do?¡± Xin Yuyue whispered anxiously.

    Before hearing Zheng Shijiu¡¯s analysis, she hadn¡¯t been concerned. But now, seeing Jiang Hao approach, her instincts screamed that she was in danger.

    Jiang Hao, his injuries fully healed, continued to walk toward them.

    ¡°Stay calm, keep your distance, and don¡¯t linger in the demonic lair. The sooner we leave, the safer we¡¯ll be. Also, let¡¯s not stand too close together. If one of us can escape, he won¡¯t risk taking action.¡± Zheng Shijiu advised, stepping slightly away from Xin Yuyue. With a composed expression, he greeted Jiang Hao with a smile.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    ¡°Junior Brother Jiang, how was your harvest this time?¡±

    ¡°The demonic beasts have mostly been cleared out,¡± Jiang Hao replied flatly.

    As he approached, he noticed the subtle unease between the two. It wasn¡¯t hard to guess why. His safe return, contrasted with the absence of the two from Tianhuan Pavilion, was enough to raise suspicions.

    But Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t concerned. Without evidence, no one could confirm what had occurred.

    As for killing these two to eliminate witnesses? That would only invite greater suspicion. It was unnecessary.

    ¡°They¡¯re not back yet? The senior brother and sister from Tianhuan Pavilion?¡± Jiang Hao asked.

    ¡°They might have been delayed by something. The agreed-upon time is almost up. No need to wait; we should leave first,¡± Zheng Shijiu said with a smile.

    Under normal circumstances, he might have waited a day or two, but not now. The longer they stayed, the greater the danger.

    ¡°After all, they¡¯re not children. They¡¯ll return to the sect once their tasks are complete,¡± Xin Yuyue added.

    Jiang Hao nodded in agreement.

    After more than two months in the demonic lair, he was eager to check on the state of his Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower.

    A short while later, the three left the demonic lair.

    The moment they exited, both Zheng Shijiu and Xin Yuyue visibly relaxed. Now that they were outside, any murder would trigger an investigation. No one would act recklessly here.

    Still, they didn¡¯t lower their guard completely.

    Who could have imagined that the greatest pressure they faced during this mission would come from someone they had previously underestimated?

    After parting ways with the pair, Jiang Hao submitted his mission report.

    Follow-up inspections of the demonic lair would determine the final reward. Jiang Hao estimated he¡¯d receive a few hundred spirit stones, which was a decent haul.

    As for the bodies of the two from Tianhuan Pavilion? They had long been devoured by demonic beasts.

    Without an investigation by the Enforcement Hall, no one could prove anything. Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t worried, though he couldn¡¯t be sure if Liu Xingchen might privately investigate.

    Regardless, after a month, any evidence would have been erased.

    Leaving the Enforcement Peak, Jiang Hao greeted his master and returned to his residence.

    His master had been surprised to see him return unharmed but merely nodded without commenting further.

    After more than two months away, Jiang Hao finally stepped back into his courtyard.

    The first thing he noticed was two blue bubbles on his Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower.

    <ul>

    <li>+1 Cultivation</li>

    <li>+1 Vitality</li>

    </ul>

    The Snow Lotus had no bubbles and appeared withered. The Blue Lotus seemed close to wilting as well, let alone producing bubbles.

    After tending to the plants, Jiang Hao watered them with creek water.

    ¡°No one¡¯s been here. It seems no one dared touch the Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower for now,¡± he murmured, relieved after a thorough inspection of his property.

    Taking a moment to rest, Jiang Hao retrieved his Shadow Blade.

    The blade was covered in cracks.

    The battle against Qingxue from Tianhuan Pavilion had pushed the weapon to its limit. Though it had killed her, it had sustained irreparable damage.

    ¡°The reward from this mission isn¡¯t even enough to replace this artifact,¡± Jiang Hao sighed, placing the blade in a corner as a decoration.

    He then opened his panel to check his current status.

    <ul>

    <li>Name: Jiang Hao</li>

    <li>Age: 20</li>

    <li>Cultivation: Foundation Establishment (Perfection)</li>

    <li>Techniques: Heavenly Melody Reversal, Primal Chaos Heart Sutra</li>

    <li>Divine Abilities: Ninefold Substitute (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Clear and Tranquil Heart</li>

    <li>Vitality: 9/100 (Non-trainable)</li>

    <li>Cultivation: 11/100 (Trainable)</li>

    <li>Divine Abilities: 1/3 (Non-trainable)</li>

    </ul>

    ¡°In just nine months since starting Foundation Establishment, I¡¯ve already reached perfection. For the first time, I feel like the Golden Core stage is within reach.¡±

 Chapter 34: The Female Demon Returns

    After killing the two disciples of Tianhuan Pavilion, Jiang Hao consolidated his cultivation, utilizing all his energy and blood essence.

    Looking at his current state, killing them now would have been far easier.

    During his final month in the Demonic Cave, he encountered fewer demonic beings, so his blood essence and cultivation hadn¡¯t been replenished much.

    The biggest gain from this mission was reaching the pinnacle of Foundation Establishment. It also meant he could enjoy a short period of stability.

    As long as he stayed in this area, he believed he could rapidly grow stronger.

    This confidence stemmed from the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    Gazing at the flower with its two tender leaves, Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t help but sigh. It was both a blessing and a potential source of immense danger.

    He just didn¡¯t know when that danger would strike.

    After staring at the flower for a while, Jiang Hao began to assess his weaknesses.

    In terms of defense, his armor had been invaluable, so he wasn¡¯t lacking there for the time being.

    However, he had no high-level spells or offensive artifacts.

    The Demonic Sound Slash was decent, but his master might not teach him anything better.

    After all, he was merely an inner disciple.

    He needed to find a way to acquire something more powerful.

    As for artifacts, a blade seemed to suit him best. But buying another one meant getting a Gold Core-level weapon, which would cost an astronomical amount of spirit stones¡ªfar beyond what he currently had.

    Once again, he lamented his poverty.

    He decided to continue making talismans to earn money in the meantime.

    Seven days after returning from the Demonic Cave, Liu Xingchen visited Jiang Hao to deliver his reward: 300 spirit stones.

    At the same time, Liu Xingchen brought up the absence of the Tianhuan Pavilion disciples and asked Jiang Hao a few questions.

    ¡°It¡¯s just a routine inquiry. Please answer truthfully so we can give Tianhuan Pavilion a proper explanation,¡± Liu Xingchen said calmly.

    ¡°Please go ahead, Senior Brother.¡± Jiang Hao remained composed.

    ¡°Tell me about your time in the Demonic Cave,¡± Liu Xingchen asked casually as he stood in Jiang Hao¡¯s courtyard.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°At first, I acted alongside several senior brothers and sisters. About a month later, we decided to split up to more efficiently deal with the demonic beings.

    Since then, I¡¯ve been hunting them on my own and didn¡¯t engage in any other activities,¡± Jiang Hao explained.

    ¡°Did you encounter the two from Tianhuan Pavilion during that time?¡± Liu Xingchen asked, looking directly at him.

    Jiang Hao shook his head and elaborated, ¡°I was deliberately avoiding them, so I never crossed paths with them.¡±

    ¡°Fair enough,¡± Liu Xingchen nodded before smiling. ¡°That¡¯s all I needed to ask.

    Tianhuan Pavilion may suspect you, but without evidence, they won¡¯t act rashly.

    In the meantime, you can cultivate in peace here at the Severing Emotion Cliff. Farewell.¡±

    With that, Liu Xingchen left.

    As Jiang Hao saw him off, he used his ability to appraise Liu Xingchen once again:

    [Liu Xingchen: True disciple of the Haotian Sect. Born with Dragon Fiend energy. Gold Core pinnacle cultivation. Undercover in Tianyin Sect¡¯s Enforcement Hall out of boredom. Befriends you to get closer to the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower and to enjoy the unfolding drama. Strongly suspects you of killing the three Tianhuan Pavilion disciples and has developed a keen interest in you.]

    Jiang Hao: ¡°¡­¡±

    Though Liu Xingchen¡¯s interest was unsettling, it appeared he wasn¡¯t an immediate threat.

    His assurance that Jiang Hao could cultivate in peace was likely genuine.

    Relieved, Jiang Hao finally felt he could focus on improving his strength.

    A month after returning from the Demonic Cave, Han Ming came to visit.

    ¡°Senior Brother, we meet again,¡± Han Ming greeted with a cheerful smile.

    ¡°Junior Brother, is something the matter?¡± Jiang Hao asked, slightly surprised by Han Ming¡¯s rapid progress in cultivation¡ªhe was already in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage.

    Han Ming grinned and said, ¡°Have you forgotten? I mentioned wanting to spar with you. I¡¯m ready now.

    Would you prefer a private match or a public one?¡±

    Jiang Hao recalled the conversation and said without hesitation, ¡°Let¡¯s do it privately.¡±

    A private match would have minimal impact, no matter how it turned out.

    ¡°When shall we do it?¡± Han Ming asked.

    ¡°Tomorrow,¡± Jiang Hao replied after a brief moment of thought.

    He planned to take some time today to prepare and figure out how to lose gracefully. He also needed to sell some talismans he¡¯d made recently and buy a better talisman compendium.

    He had already mastered the twelve talismans from his previous compendium. The remaining three¡ªCleanse, Strength, and Pain Relief talismans¡ªwere of limited utility.

    For instance, Cleanse could be replaced with spiritual energy to clean clothes, Strength was rarely used even by Qi Refinement cultivators, and Pain Relief was costly to make and sold for little.

    Having made a few of them, he saw little value in continuing.

    ¡°Great! I¡¯ll come by tomorrow morning. How about we use the streamside as our venue?¡± Han Ming suggested.

    Jiang Hao nodded, and Han Ming left with a hint of arrogance.

    After tomorrow, Han Ming thought, he¡¯d no longer need to concern himself with Jiang Hao¡ªa mere defeated opponent wasn¡¯t worth his attention.

    Watching him leave with such disdain, Jiang Hao didn¡¯t mind.

    After tomorrow, this junior brother likely wouldn¡¯t bother him again, which was fine for everyone.

    ¡°So, you plan to lose to him?¡±

    A melodious yet cold voice suddenly rang out behind Jiang Hao.

    Turning, he saw a red-clad woman standing in his courtyard, gazing at the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    Her profile was breathtakingly beautiful.

    It was her again. Jiang Hao walked into the courtyard and bowed. ¡°Greetings, Senior.¡±

    Though he didn¡¯t want to see her, every encounter reminded him of his own humanity.

    The poison had indeed caused him immense suffering, but it had also helped him.

    Thanks to it, he had remained calm and unaffected during his battle with the two Tianhuan Pavilion disciples¡ªlikely a benefit of the poison.

    ¡°You seem very averse to standing out,¡± Hong Yuye remarked as she turned her gaze to Jiang Hao.

 Chapter 35: The Seven Styles of the Heavenly Blade

    Jiang Hao naturally preferred to avoid drawing attention to himself.

    Living in a demonic sect, being underestimated while harboring secrets was manageable¡ªif one were sufficiently powerful, it wouldn¡¯t be an issue. Unfortunately, he was still weak.

    What he needed most was time, so cultivating peacefully was his top priority.

    Winning or losing a sparring match didn¡¯t matter.

    However, he couldn¡¯t share these thoughts with others, so he said instead, ¡°For the sake of tending the flower for Senior, I dare not stand out too much.¡±

    Hong Yuye chuckled softly, then asked calmly, ¡°What is your cultivation level?¡±

    ¡°Mid-Foundation Establishment,¡± Jiang Hao replied.

    Upon hearing this, Hong Yuye walked to the corner of the courtyard and commented, ¡°I thought you were an honest and timid man. Now it seems you are not.

    An honest man wouldn¡¯t lie as smoothly as you do.¡±

    Jiang Hao kept his head down and remained silent, unsure whether she was deliberately testing him.

    When faced with someone of her caliber, silence was often the safest response.

    Hong Yuye turned to him and said, ¡°I¡¯ll give you another chance. Tell me your cultivation level.¡±

    ¡°Mid-Foundation Establishment,¡± Jiang Hao repeated without hesitation.

    Whoosh!

    Hong Yuye furrowed her brow, and an invisible force roared like a gust of wind, slamming into Jiang Hao.

    Bang!

    The powerful force sent him crashing into the wall. Even at the peak of Foundation Establishment, he couldn¡¯t resist in the slightest.

    For a moment, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder what her true cultivation level was.

    With a cold snort, Hong Yuye said, ¡°Then let¡¯s just pretend you¡¯re at mid-Foundation Establishment.¡±

    Jiang Hao let out a silent sigh, curious if she had seen through his actual cultivation.

    ¡°Do you practice with a blade?¡± Hong Yuye asked as she pulled out the Shadow Blade.

    ¡°I¡¯ve considered it,¡± Jiang Hao nodded. He indeed planned to specialize in blade techniques in the future.

    ¡°I¡¯ve seen many people, and most of them practice sword techniques,¡± Hong Yuye remarked, her tone calm as she glanced at Jiang Hao. ¡°Why don¡¯t you practice with a sword?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t,¡± Jiang Hao shook his head.

    ¡°Why not?¡± Hong Yuye asked casually.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    ¡°As a disciple of a demonic sect, practicing with a sword easily makes people associate me with disciples of the righteous sects. It¡¯s better to stick with a blade for my artifact,¡± Jiang Hao explained.

    When he thought of righteous sects, he imagined flowing white robes and swords in hand.

    Artifacts in the demonic sects were varied and eccentric. Swords existed but were often demonic swords.

    Hearing this, Hong Yuye let out a cold laugh, walked into the house, and sat at the table. ¡°You¡¯re not very valued in the Tianyin Sect, are you?¡±

    Jiang Hao followed her inside, lowering his head without responding.

    Indeed, he wasn¡¯t valued, but he didn¡¯t mind.

    For now, his situation was manageable.

    As for Tianhuan Pavilion¡­

    One day, when he surpassed them, he would certainly pay them a visit.

    Seeing Jiang Hao neither confirm nor deny, Hong Yuye continued, ¡°You don¡¯t have any powerful artifacts or advanced techniques, do you?¡±

    ¡°I do have a decent artifact,¡± Jiang Hao retorted, referring to the Nine Heavens Armor. Though it was only a Foundation Establishment artifact, it was part of a set.

    Once fully assembled, it should become a very formidable artifact.

    Hong Yuye stared at him for a moment but didn¡¯t press further on the artifact. Instead, she said, ¡°I have a blade technique here. Do you want it?¡±

    ¡°What are your conditions, Senior?¡± Jiang Hao asked curiously. It was impossible for her to give it away for free.

    ¡°You¡¯re about to spar with someone, aren¡¯t you? Win the match, and I¡¯ll give you the blade technique,¡± Hong Yuye said with a playful glint in her eye.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t respond immediately, weighing the pros and cons.

    What would happen if he won against Han Ming?

    It would undoubtedly cause Han Ming to become fixated on him, potentially even arousing suspicion.

    Still, it wasn¡¯t entirely unexplainable. The Demonic Cave was full of opportunities, and spending over two months there could reasonably result in some fortuitous gains.

    But would his master believe it? There was a certain level of risk.

    On the other hand, should he forgo the blade technique she offered?

    Given her abilities, whatever she provided would undoubtedly be extraordinary, especially considering the unnamed manual she had previously given him¡ªit was something the Tianyin Sect could never provide.

    After a brief moment of thought, Jiang Hao made his decision.

    He would win the sparring match tomorrow and attribute it all to the opportunities he had found in the Demonic Cave.

    ¡°Alright,¡± Jiang Hao nodded in agreement.

    Good blade techniques weren¡¯t something he could easily acquire.

    He couldn¡¯t practice any of the techniques from the Primordial Mind Sutra.

    And he hadn¡¯t found any purple-grade or higher energy bubbles, unless he stumbled upon another seed for the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower¡ªwhich was clearly impossible.

    This was an opportunity he couldn¡¯t afford to miss.

    ¡°You¡¯re quite decisive,¡± Hong Yuye remarked, though she seemed somewhat disinterested. She tossed him a book before leaving the room like a gust of wind.

    ¡°If I don¡¯t see any progress in the Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower the next time I visit, I¡¯ll hold you accountable,¡± she warned.

    With that, she vanished entirely.

    Jiang Hao didn¡¯t dare delay and bowed respectfully in her direction.

    Only after a moment did he glance at the book in his hand.

    The title read: The Seven Styles of the Heavenly Blade.

    He didn¡¯t immediately open it. Instead, he glanced at the corner of the courtyard where the Shadow Blade should have been. It was gone.

    ¡°That woman actually took my blade?¡±

    Jiang Hao was stunned. He couldn¡¯t believe she would do such a thing.

    Shaking his head, he pushed the thought aside and opened The Seven Styles of the Heavenly Blade to start learning.

    However, the content was obscure and difficult to comprehend. After studying it for a long time, all he managed to grasp was the name of the first technique.

    The first style: Moon Slash.

    With a sigh, Jiang Hao decided to clear his mind and try comprehending it again later that evening.

    For now, he planned to visit the Spirit Herb Garden and sell some talismans.

    Meanwhile, Han Ming returned to his residence, eagerly anticipating tomorrow¡¯s sparring match.

    He was around the same age as Jiang Hao and was determined to prove his superiority.

    After all, he was a true disciple, while Jiang Hao was merely an inner disciple.

    As long as he defeated Jiang Hao, even if he called him ¡°Junior Brother,¡± no one would care.

    This was the demonic sect¡ªrules were minimal.

    As long as it wasn¡¯t outright killing or severe injury, most things were permissible.

 Chapter 36: One Strike Is Enough

    "Junior Brother?"

    A tall, handsome man with an aloof demeanor looked at Han Ming curiously and asked, "What''s making you so happy?"

    "Senior Brother Mu," Han Ming replied with a smile. "It''s nothing major. I just went to see Senior Brother Jiang, and he agreed to spar with me."

    "Oh?" Mu Qi showed some interest. "I remember Junior Brother Jiang. He''s quite aloof and seems to care only about tending the spiritual herb garden. Doesn''t he know you''ve advanced to the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment?"

    "He probably does," Han Ming said after some thought. "I didn¡¯t hide my cultivation level, and he seemed to notice it."

    "Then you should be careful," Mu Qi kindly advised. "He recently returned from the Demon Cave, which is full of opportunities. There¡¯s a chance he might have had some fortuitous encounters. Otherwise, he might not have agreed to spar with you. Of course, it could also be that he had no choice. Either way, caution is always a good idea."

    After giving his advice, Mu Qi turned and left.

    Han Ming furrowed his brows. Even with fortuitous encounters, there¡¯s no way he can defeat me, a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.

    Still, caution was indeed necessary.

    As fellow disciples, with similar ages and cultivation levels, underestimating an opponent could lead to disastrous consequences.

    Even so, he was confident he could win with ease.

    The next day.

    [Vitality +1][Cultivation +1][Cultivation +1][Strength +1]

    After collecting the energy bubbles in his courtyard, Jiang Hao stood by the gate, waiting for Han Ming to arrive.

    Yesterday, Jiang Hao had gone to sell talismans. Unfortunately, there were too many on the market, so he only managed to sell a portion, earning just over 100 spirit stones. After deducting costs, his profit was less than 100 spirit stones.

    He decided not to go again for a while, perhaps every three to five days instead.

    On his way back, he spent 100 spirit stones on a decent blade called Half-Moon, a silver-white long blade he intended to use for practicing the first form of the Heavenly Blade Techniques.

    Last night, he had activated the Empty Mind technique to comprehend the first form, Moon Slash.

    His progress wasn¡¯t great, and he estimated it would take some time to fully understand it.

    But he wasn¡¯t in a hurry. After all, even mastering the Demonic Sound Slash had taken a while. The first form of the Heavenly Blade Techniques would naturally take longer.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

    ¡°Senior Brother.¡±

    Han Ming descended from the sky, landing in front of Jiang Hao. He held a spiritual sword and radiated confidence.

    ¡°You¡¯re early, Junior Brother,¡± Jiang Hao remarked. Han Ming¡¯s enthusiasm was evident.

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare keep Senior Brother waiting,¡± Han Ming replied with a smile. ¡°Where do you plan for us to spar?¡±

    ¡°Here will do,¡± Jiang Hao said calmly.

    ¡°Here?¡± Han Ming glanced at Jiang Hao¡¯s residence, looking puzzled. ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about damaging your home?¡±

    Jiang Hao shook his head. ¡°It shouldn¡¯t come to that.¡±

    ¡°As long as Senior Brother doesn¡¯t mind.¡± Han Ming unsheathed his long sword, fully unleashing his Foundation Establishment aura. ¡°Then forgive me for any offense, Senior Brother.¡±

    Zzzap!

    Han Ming¡¯s sword sparked with thunder, and he immediately unleashed his strongest move: Heavenly Thunder Sword.

    He had taken Mu Qi¡¯s advice to heart and decided to defeat Jiang Hao with his full strength right from the start.

    Jiang Hao observed Han Ming¡¯s attack with an unchanged expression. Then, he raised the Half-Moon blade and swung it downward.

    Boom!

    The Demonic Sound Slash erupted.

    Han Ming¡¯s Heavenly Thunder Sword clashed with the demonic blade strike, but the latter overwhelmed it, slicing through the thunderous sword energy.

    Crash!

    The thunder dissipated, and the blade''s shadow swept toward Han Ming.

    In a desperate moment, Han Ming raised his spiritual sword to block.

    Boom!

    The force sent Han Ming flying. He barely managed to stay upright by stabbing his sword into the ground, but his chest throbbed in pain, and he noticed cracks spreading across his weapon.

    Just one move had revealed the vast gap between him and Jiang Hao.

    ¡°Thank you for letting me win, Junior Brother,¡± Jiang Hao said as he sheathed his blade.

    He had initially planned to secure a narrow victory, but human nature was tricky. If the gap was small, people would hold grudges and keep challenging. However, if the difference was overwhelming, they would instead feel reverence.

    For this reason, Jiang Hao had decided to defeat Han Ming in a single strike.

    Understanding the disparity, Han Ming would likely stop seeking challenges, making future troubles less likely.

    The only downside was that his master might notice this display and question his rapid improvement, making it harder to conceal his fortuitous encounters.

    But when Jiang Hao glanced at the Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower, he felt reassured.

    If suspicions arose, he could always attribute his growth to the flower and let his master investigate Elder Bai Zhi instead.

    Han Ming, after a long moment, finally looked up at Jiang Hao. This time, there was a trace of fear and respect in his eyes.

    ¡°Senior Brother Jiang¡­ have you advanced in cultivation?¡± he asked bitterly.

    ¡°I had some minor fortuitous encounters in the Demon Cave. That¡¯s all. Today¡¯s victory was just luck,¡± Jiang Hao replied slowly.

    ¡°Thank you, Senior Brother, for showing mercy,¡± Han Ming said, bowing in gratitude. He could sense that Jiang Hao¡¯s mid-stage Foundation Establishment aura was far more stable than his own.

    ¡°This was just a private sparring match. No need to dwell on it, and I won¡¯t mention it to others,¡± Jiang Hao added, retreating tactfully.

    ¡°Thank you, Senior Brother.¡± Han Ming expressed his gratitude once more before leaving.

    As Jiang Hao watched Han Ming¡¯s dejected figure disappear into the distance, he activated his divine ability.

    [Han Ming: True disciple of the Cliff of Severed Emotions in the Tianyin Sect. Talent: Superior. Cultivation: Mid-stage Foundation Establishment. Favored by the Spirit of Mountains and Rivers. Possesses a legacy from a powerful being. Defeated by you, he feels unwilling. He plans to advance in cultivation and challenge you again to prove that your victory was only ¡®luck.¡¯]

    Jiang Hao: ¡°¡­¡±

    Is this guy narrow-minded or broad-minded?

    One would expect some resentment after a loss, yet Han Ming seemed solely focused on reclaiming his honor.

    Was he offended because I called my victory ¡®luck¡¯?

    Shaking his head, Jiang Hao turned and returned to his tasks. There was still much to do.

    The Tianhuan Pavilion and the Heavenly Fragrant Dao Flower loomed over him like swords hanging by a thread.

    The only solution was to grow stronger and remove these threats.

 Chapter 37: The Golden Core of Falling Sunset Sect

    [Name: Jiang Hao][Age: Twenty][Cultivation: Foundation Establishment Perfection][Techniques: Hundred-Turns of Heavenly Sound, Primordial Mind Sutra][Divine Powers: Nine-Turn Substitute Death (Unique), Daily Appraisal, Clear Mind and Heart][Vitality: 49/100 (Non-cultivable)][Cultivation: 54/100 (Cultivable)][Divine Power Usage: 1/3 (Non-obtainable)]

    "Halfway there."

    Jiang Hao strolled through the Spirit Herb Garden, absorbing the bubbles scattered around him. His strength and mental clarity were steadily improving.

    This peaceful and gradual progress was exactly the kind of life Jiang Hao desired.

    However, after a month, he started to notice a hostile gaze.

    Walking through the Spirit Herb Garden, he couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that someone was watching him. Though faint, it was perceptible.

    He turned to look, only to see a few Qi Refinement disciples collecting spiritual herbs¡ªsome of whom seemed unfamiliar.

    ¡°Who are they?¡±

    Jiang Hao summoned an outer sect disciple who often worked there.

    ¡°Senior Brother, they¡¯re from another main branch sent here to help,¡± replied Cheng Chou respectfully.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Jiang Hao glanced at the five individuals and asked further, ¡°Which branch are they from?¡±

    The five appeared to be at the Qi Refinement stage, at least on the surface.

    But Jiang Hao wasn¡¯t fooled. Having cultivated an unnamed manual that taught him to conceal his own cultivation level, he had also learned how to discern others¡¯.

    Among the five, one of them had recently advanced to the early Golden Core stage. However, they concealed their strength, appearing as a Qi Refinement fifth-layer cultivator, like a wandering cultivator who had joined the Heavenly Sound Sect.

    "Appraise."

    Jiang Hao focused on a burly man with a beard and robust vitality.

    In a flash, his divine power responded:

    [Jinzhou Heng: Inner Sect Disciple of Falling Sunset Sect, undercover in Thunderfire Peak. Years ago, he cultivated alongside his junior sister Yun Ruo and became enamored by her beauty. Upon learning of Yun Ruo¡¯s death, he advanced to the early Golden Core stage in a rage. He has come to seek vengeance against you, even at the cost of his life.]This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Jiang Hao: ¡°...¡±

    Reading the results, Jiang Hao felt a chill run down his spine.

    He wasn¡¯t particularly concerned about the details¡ªwhat truly unnerved him was the last line: ¡°even at the cost of his life.¡±

    In other words, this man intended to perish alongside him.

    Even the strict regulations of the Heavenly Sound Sect wouldn¡¯t deter someone who didn¡¯t fear death.

    But Jiang Hao couldn¡¯t fathom why Yun Ruo warranted such devotion. Was she really worth dying for?

    Golden Core cultivators enjoyed long lifespans and high status. Why throw it all away for something so trivial?

    ¡°Even demonic cultivators understand the importance of self-preservation. Yet here¡¯s a righteous sect disciple, forsaking his bright future for romance?¡±

    "Are there really no other women in the Foundation Establishment realm as beautiful as Yun Ruo?"

    Jiang Hao sighed softly, not dwelling on the matter further.

    While he pondered, Cheng Chou interrupted:

    ¡°They¡¯re likely from Thunderfire Peak. The roster is outside. Would you like me to retrieve it, Senior Brother?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s take a look.¡± Jiang Hao nodded subtly.

    He didn¡¯t dare linger in the garden any longer, fearing that the Golden Core cultivator might suddenly attack.

    A Foundation Establishment cultivator at his level stood no chance against a Golden Core opponent.

    But his cultivation and vitality were nearing their limits, and he would soon attempt to break through.

    Still...

    Since the other party had already seen him and would soon learn where he lived, the confrontation was likely imminent.

    ¡°The fact that he hasn¡¯t acted yet suggests he values his life somewhat,¡± Jiang Hao thought.

    The intruder would probably strike at night, hoping to kill him quickly and flee the sect to return to the Falling Sunset Sect. The Heavenly Sound Sect wouldn¡¯t be able to retaliate in time.

    Taking the roster, Jiang Hao left Severance Cliff and made his way to the Enforcement Peak.

    He sighed deeply.

    His only option was to seek help from Liu Xingchen. Though they were both undercover agents, not everyone wished for his demise.

    ¡°Does Junior Brother need something?¡± Liu Xingchen seemed surprised when he appeared.

    Jiang Hao¡¯s reluctance to leave Severance Cliff, especially after offending the Heavenly Delight Pavilion, was well known.

    He barely left the Spirit Herb Garden, let alone the sect.

    ¡°Senior Brother, I wanted to report something.¡± Jiang Hao handed over the roster. ¡°One of these five might be a traitor.¡±

    ¡°Are you certain?¡± Liu Xingchen asked, showing no emotion.

    ¡°Not entirely,¡± Jiang Hao replied cautiously.

    Liu Xingchen didn¡¯t comment further on whether or not he would investigate. Instead, he asked, ¡°Where did you see them?¡±

    ¡°The Spirit Herb Garden at Severance Cliff,¡± Jiang Hao answered truthfully.

    Liu Xingchen pondered for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll look into it. In the meantime, stay cautious.¡±

    Jiang Hao nodded and expressed his thanks.

    Though he hadn¡¯t explicitly said so, Liu Xingchen would undoubtedly deduce that if there were indeed a traitor, they were likely targeting Jiang Hao.

    Returning home, Jiang Hao reviewed the first form of the Heavenly Blade Technique. After a month of practice, he had already mastered it, though he still lacked complete proficiency.

    At midnight, he took out the Crescent Blade and began to swing it.

    Blade intent emerged.

    The blade¡¯s radiance cascaded like moonlight, leaving deep grooves in the ground.

    ¡°A slight exertion of strength, and it¡¯s already on par with the Demon Sound Slash. If I go all out, I wonder how powerful it could be.¡±

    Staring at the blade in his hand, Jiang Hao briefly entertained the idea of testing it against a Golden Core cultivator.

    He quickly dismissed the thought.

    ¡°Too dangerous.¡±

    ¡°Strength can be deceptive,¡± Jiang Hao reminded himself. His rapid advancement and newfound techniques had nearly made him overconfident.

 Chapter 38: The Golden Core is Within Reach

    After discovering Jinzhou Heng¡¯s presence, Jiang Hao refrained from returning to the Spirit Herb Garden. Instead, he stayed quietly in his courtyard, collecting bubbles each day and waiting until his cultivation and vitality reached their maximum values of 100.

    Liu Xingchen hadn¡¯t come to inform him of any developments, leaving Jiang Hao uncertain if any progress had been made in the investigation.

    This lack of information caused him slight unease.

    A cultivator in the early Golden Core stage was not someone a Foundation Establishment cultivator could contend with. He worried that, should Jinzhou Heng see him again, the man might fail to suppress his thirst for revenge.

    As for hiding elsewhere...

    Jiang Hao had considered it but found no suitable place to stay for long. Crowded areas brought their own risks, making his courtyard the safest option.

    If Jinzhou Heng did show up, Jiang Hao planned to head straight for his master¡¯s residence¡ªthere was still some hope in doing so.

    His greatest reliance, however, was on his impending breakthrough.

    ¡°Just a few more days,¡± Jiang Hao murmured to himself.

    Seven days passed in a flash, during which Jiang Hao focused on consolidating his cultivation base, preparing for the advancement.

    This time, the situation was different. During the Foundation Establishment stage, reaching 100 in cultivation and vitality was sufficient for a breakthrough.

    But stepping into the Golden Core realm was a giant leap forward. It was uncertain if 100 points in both categories would be enough.

    If it wasn¡¯t, things would become troublesome. Gathering another 100 would take three months.

    Would Jinzhou Heng wait three months? Highly unlikely.

    He had probably already scoped out the surroundings and would act within the next few days.

    Exhaling deeply, Jiang Hao checked his status panel:

    [Vitality: 99/100 (Cultivable)][Cultivation: 100/100 (Cultivable)]

    "One more day should do it."

    Today, Jiang Hao took out his Crescent Blade and began to nourish it.

    The closer he was to a critical moment, the greater the danger.

    Sure enough, that faint sensation of being watched returned, more intense this time, carrying a burning weight.

    ¡°Has he arrived?¡±Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    It was far too soon, catching Jiang Hao unprepared.

    Startled, he kept calm, waiting for his opponent to make the first move so he could flee.

    Of course, another possibility lingered in his mind¡ªthe Heavenly Fragrance Dao Flower.

    Many coveted it. Perhaps Elder Bai Zhi or the woman targeting it would intervene if they suspected someone trying to take what belonged to them.

    After a while, the oppressive gaze suddenly disappeared.

    ¡°Hm?¡±

    Jiang Hao frowned. No attack?

    At that moment, Liu Xingchen¡¯s voice came from outside:

    ¡°Junior Brother Jiang, are you here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here,¡± Jiang Hao replied immediately.

    So it was Liu Xingchen. No wonder the threat had withdrawn.

    Still, it was daytime. The attacker could very well wait until nightfall.

    Jiang Hao invited Liu Xingchen inside and poured him a cup of tea.

    ¡°You were right¡ªthere¡¯s likely an undercover agent from another sect. We plan to capture him tonight,¡± Liu Xingchen said after taking a sip of tea. ¡°You should be cautious. He¡¯s almost certainly after you.

    ¡°If he¡¯s willing to come, he¡¯s probably prepared to never return. That said, everyone has a survival instinct. If there¡¯s a chance to escape alive, he won¡¯t want to die here.

    ¡°Right now, he¡¯s not completely desperate. But once we act, he may become irrational.¡±

    Jiang Hao nodded, indicating his understanding.

    He didn¡¯t demand protection or insist that Liu Xingchen succeed in the capture. Such demands were excessive and would only breed resentment. Liu Xingchen¡¯s reminder alone was already a kindness.

    After delivering his message, Liu Xingchen left, seemingly having come just to relay this information.

    Gazing at his now-empty courtyard, Jiang Hao found himself curious.

    If Liu Xingchen ever tried to sway him to defect, how would he approach it?

    Would he feign agreement, report it to that woman, or seek out Elder Bai Zhi?

    Jiang Hao shook his head, unable to answer.

    He didn¡¯t want to face such a choice¡ªit was too dangerous.

    Afterward, Jiang Hao stepped out of the courtyard, intending to visit the Spirit Herb Garden.

    If the confrontation was to happen tonight, then everything would unfold tonight.

    He was still short one vitality point. If the garden held what he needed, he could complete his breakthrough now.

    If he acted quickly, he might gain enough strength to face the danger¡ªor at least escape.

    Spiritual Herb Garden.

    Jiang Hao saw Han Ming organizing spiritual herbs with others.

    ¡°Senior Brother Jiang, haven¡¯t seen you these past few days,¡± Han Ming greeted him respectfully.

    Though he still felt dissatisfied after losing to Jiang Hao, he knew he was currently no match and wisely refrained from provoking him.

    ¡°Junior Brother Han, are you preparing for a journey?¡± Jiang Hao asked, gesturing toward the herbs.

    It was unusual to gather so many herbs, even for alchemy. Traveling seemed more likely.

    As a core disciple, Han Ming could take whatever he needed with proper registration.

    ¡°Indeed. Recently, the Dao Debate Conference at Azure Mountain has caused some tension. Many people seem reluctant to leave. It¡¯s created some friction with our sect, so I thought it¡¯d be a good time for some training,¡± Han Ming explained.

    Righteous and demonic clashes? Jiang Hao wanted no part of that¡ªit would make his situation even harder to navigate.

    ¡°Be careful,¡± Jiang Hao advised.

    As he spoke, he spotted a blue bubble in the herb garden.

    Would it be vitality?

    ¡°Thank you, Senior Brother. When I return, let¡¯s spar again,¡± Han Ming said resolutely.

    Jiang Hao nodded.

    Next time, I¡¯ll just lose to him, he thought. Being constantly targeted was exhausting.

    After bidding farewell to Han Ming, Jiang Hao entered the herb garden.

    Of course, he glanced around at those helping. Jinzhou Heng wasn¡¯t among them. That was a relief.

    Soon, the bubbles began merging with him:

    [Strength +1][Spirit +1][Endurance +1][Spirit +1]

    Feeling the subtle changes in his body, Jiang Hao was delighted. He had missed out on much growth by avoiding the garden these past days.

    At last, the blue bubble merged into him.

    [Vitality +1]

    ¡°It¡¯s done.¡±

    Jiang Hao left the herb garden immediately, not even stopping to tidy up.

    The sky was still bright. He needed to break through to the Golden Core stage without delay.