Steady Mortal Path: Starting from Obtaining the Golden Core Inheritance

Chapter 353 Ascending Cloud Peak

Chen Xingzhou's Nascent Soul Ceremony lasted for seven days.

Later, Liu Yanzong generously treated everyone to various spiritual wines and delicacies, as well as rare spiritual items. Many young girls with graceful dances also presented exciting performances to celebrate how the group gradually became more familiar with each other and more relaxed.

Such a grand event can be considered the largest gathering of the Liuyan Sect in recent decades.

Of course, this period was not only filled with congratulations, but also with other forces taking the opportunity to discuss cooperation matters with Liu Yanzong.

As the sect leader of the Willow Smoke Sect, Huang Jia has met with representatives of many other forces in the past few days and signed cooperation agreements.

Previously, the Willow Smoke Sect had the Cloud Mist True Monarch, a mid-Nascent Soul stage ancestor, who was in charge and deterred the surrounding area. No matter if it was a rogue cultivator or other forces, they could not shake the foundation of the sect.

Unfortunately, True Lord Yunmiao was not enthusiastic about development and lacked pioneering spirit. For many years, he had been content to stay in Yan Kingdom and never had the idea of ​​expanding his territory.

Therefore, it poses little threat to the surrounding forces of Yan Kingdom. As long as they maintain good relations with it, they need not worry about being annexed by Liu Yan Sect at all times.

With the rise of Qingdan Zhenjun, the Liuyan Sect now boasts two Nascent Soul cultivators, a shift in the landscape that may influence its neutral sect development strategy and alter the situation in the Yan Kingdom and surrounding cultivation communities.

Therefore, most of the forces that came to offer their congratulations, besides participating in the celebration, were more interested in finding out the next move of the Willow Smoke Sect so as to devise countermeasures.

However, Lin Changsheng didn't care about any of this.

After congratulating Chen Xingzhou in person, he sat quietly for half a day, found a moment to greet the sect leader Huang Jia, and then took his leave ahead of time.

When the latter met Lin Changsheng, he seemed to have something to say, but in the end, they only talked briefly and did not have much interaction.

It seemed that the other party had something to say, but due to the presence of many people and the inconvenience, there was no intention to ask further questions.

……

Qingxia Peak Taoist Temple.

When Han Xinlan saw Lin Changsheng return safely, she subtly glanced at him to make sure everything was alright. She felt a little relieved, but her worry was still evident.

He then personally boiled water, poured tea for Lin Changsheng, and served him from the side, seemingly wanting to inquire about participating in the Nascent Soul Ceremony.

Since Han Feng advanced to the Golden Core realm, the entire Han family, from top to bottom, has been working with renewed vigor, focusing on developing and expanding the family.

Not long ago, 'Master Zhuo' took the initiative to return the third-order spiritual vein that he had occupied for many years in the Han family, and even went through the Han family to express goodwill to Lin Changsheng.

It can be said that the entire family has undergone a complete transformation, developing many new industries and thriving as a whole.

In contrast, Han Xinlan was originally intended to be a link between the Han family and Master Lin, but as time went on, she became more interested in staying by Master Lin's side.

Therefore, they are very concerned about the potential crisis that Lin Changsheng may encounter.

"You little girl, you're just participating in the celebration normally. Even if Qingdan Zhenjun remembers what happened back then after becoming a Nascent Soul Zhenjun, he will at most give her a small punishment. After all, as a Nascent Soul Zhenjun, it would be unbecoming of him to target a low-level junior too much."

Lin Changsheng smiled reassuringly as he spoke, while taking out a palm-sized wooden box and handing it to Han Xinlan.

For this celebration, Lin Changsheng presented a Tier 3 early stage puppet as a congratulatory gift, a gift that was neither too light nor too heavy, befitting his status as a guest elder.

Although he was humiliated in public, Chen Xingzhou still gave a gift in return.

It is this mid-grade, third-tier 'Blood Soul Pill'.

In addition to improving cultivation level, it can also promote the growth of body refinement realm.

In terms of quality, it is slightly higher than the early-stage third-tier puppet that Lin Changsheng gave away.

However, a complete puppet is inherently more valuable than a pill of the same level, so this return gift is just right and perfectly suited to Lin Changsheng's current level of cultivation.

Clearly, although Chen Xingzhou, as a newly promoted Nascent Soul True Monarch, was somewhat targeted at him, he demonstrated his magnanimity in returning the favor.

"This pill was a gift from True Monarch Qingdan. It has excellent medicinal effects. Sending it to the great snow wolf demon in the back mountain will greatly help it break through to the mid-stage of the third rank."

Lin Changsheng gave the instructions.

He had already checked before coming here, and Chen Xingzhou had not tampered with the pills. Or rather, given Chen Xingzhou's current status as a Nascent Soul True Monarch, he wouldn't stoop to such methods against a Golden Core True Person like him.

Through this celebration, Lin Changsheng roughly grasped some of Chen Xingzhou's thoughts.

The latter person may seem arrogant, but he is not brainless; on the contrary, he is more shrewd than most people.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to secretly accumulate strength and successfully advance to the Nascent Soul realm despite being secretly targeted by Sect Master Huang Jia.

Perhaps it was because he had achieved the Nascent Soul True Monarch realm that his state of mind had changed, and his former enemies at the Golden Core realm were no longer worth his attention.

Perhaps Chen Xingzhou would rather enjoy the feeling of his former enemies bowing down and submitting to him than of annihilation.

……

After the Nascent Soul Ceremony concluded, it is said that under the joint leadership of Chen Xingzhou and Sect Master Huang Jia, along with the cooperation of three inner sect elders and five core figures of the Willow Smoke Sect, a meeting was held to discuss the sect's daily tasks.

It was confirmed that Qingdan Zhenjun would assume the position of Supreme Elder within the sect.

At the same time, some power was taken away from the sect leader Huang Jia, and he took over the management of most of the immortal city's industries under the sect's jurisdiction.

They also promulgated a series of new sect rules and made personnel changes to many key positions within the sect.

Such sweeping reforms were clearly not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but rather a long-planned undertaking.

In a short time, the atmosphere within the Willow Smoke Sect changed drastically, splitting from the previous Buddhist-style stability into two major factions.

One is the lineage of Sect Master Huang Jia, the older generation of conservative disciples.

The other faction is led by the newly appointed Supreme Elder Chen Xingzhou, a radical group of cultivators who support reform and expansion.

……

Amidst the power struggles within the Willow Smoke Sect.

Under the guidance of Master Lu, Lin Changsheng set foot on the highest peak within the Willow Smoke Sect, which was also the Daoist temple of True Monarch Yunmiao, 'Yunmiao Peak'.

Within the entire Liuyanzong mountain range, 'Yunmiao Peak' is an extremely unique existence.

The road is over ten thousand feet high, piercing the clouds. In comparison, even the mountain where Sect Master Huang Jia's temple is located is only one or two tenths as high.

The mountain is steep as if cut by a knife, and its surface is as smooth as a mirror, with no steps or anything else for people to climb.

This level of achievement is far beyond the reach of even ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivators.

In other words, to enter the Daoist temple of True Monarch Yunmiao, one must be at least a Golden Core cultivator.

Led by Master Lu, the two activated their respective magical artifacts and continued to ascend, passing through countless clouds, as the surrounding temperature gradually decreased.

Snowflakes fluttered in the clouds above the clouds, melting along the way before they could fall to the ground.

Such a fantastical sight amazed Lin Changsheng.

Looking at the sky above the clouds, it felt as if I were in another world.

After reaching halfway up the altitude, the flight speed gradually slowed down.

Around 'Cloudy Peak', Lin Changsheng sensed a barrier from a restrictive force.

This is a type of anti-air formation, which has a certain inhibitory effect on cultivators.

Perhaps noticing Lin Changsheng's reaction, Master Lu took the opportunity to explain.

Approaching the Daoist temple of True Lord Yunmiao, we need to reduce our speed to show respect to the True Lord.

Upon learning of this rule, Lin Changsheng remained outwardly calm, but inwardly he was secretly grumbling.

"As expected of a long-established major sect, they have many rules."

At least, the first founders of sects, like Guigu Zhenjun, didn't have so many rules.

After the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, Lin Changsheng finally set foot on the legendary most mysterious place of the Willow Smoke Sect, 'Cloud Mist Peak'.

The entire mountain peak was covered with a layer of white snow.

The air was thin, creating a suffocating sense of oppression.

A chilling cold permeated the surroundings, and with each breath, one could clearly feel an unusual coldness entering the body through the nasal cavity.

Lin Changsheng secretly circulated his Everlasting Spring Technique to dispel the invading cold energy.

It then transformed into a cool and pure special spiritual energy of heaven and earth, which could become one's own magical power with almost no need for refining, giving people a jolt of energy.

"Such pure spiritual energy of heaven and earth, this is indeed an extraordinary fourth-order spiritual vein dojo."

Lin Changsheng sighed inwardly, feeling a longing in his heart.

He felt a slight envy for Master Lu beside him.

If he could cultivate in a fourth-order spiritual vein for an extended period, Lin Changsheng was confident that he could break through to the late stage of the Golden Core realm within twenty years.

At the summit of Yunmiao Peak, all was silent. In this environment, the breathing of Lin Changsheng and his companion seemed particularly clear.

At the center stands a grand palace of ice crystal white jade, bathed in sunlight, seemingly shrouded in a rosy mist, sacred and mysterious.

This was the first time Lin Changsheng had formally stepped into the Daoist temple of a Nascent Soul True Monarch.

"Master Lin, your master is inside the hall."

Master Lu first bowed in the direction of the Ice Palace and whispered a reminder.

However, he himself remained proper and unmoved.

Clearly, even Yunmiao Zhenjun's disciples cannot enter without permission.

This made Lin Changsheng even more aware of the strict rules within the Yunmiao Zhenjun's dojo.

……

Inside the Ice Palace.

Amidst the pervasive chill, a woman gradually came into view, dressed in pristine white robes, her face mostly concealed by a white veil.

Amidst the swirling mist, a woman walked gracefully, her figure elegant yet dignified. Her slender fingers gently plucked the sandalwood beads in her hand, her expression serene and peaceful.

Like a pure white lotus blooming in tranquility, its ethereal and exquisite beauty seems to wash away all the distractions in one's heart, bringing peace to the mind.

"Junior Lin Sangou greets True Lord Yunmiao."

Upon their first meeting, Lin Changsheng was shocked, but fearing that staring at him too much would be impolite, he immediately looked away and bowed.

As for the wording, it was already prepared, referring to oneself as a junior and not mentioning Liu Yanzong's seniority.

It must be said that Yunmiao Zhenjun has the most unique temperament among all the female cultivators Lin Changsheng has ever seen.

Perhaps it was the blessing of his status as a True Lord that made the woman in front of him, despite her stunning appearance, give off a feeling that she is someone to be admired from afar but not to be trifled with.

Lin Changsheng had never faced a powerhouse of such a level in his entire life, including his experience as the 'Heavenly Poison True Man' in his memories, across two lifetimes.

Although True Monarch Yunmiao did not deliberately exert pressure, the higher spiritual pressure from the Nascent Soul level made Lin Changsheng feel slightly uncomfortable and inevitably nervous.

"Since Master Lin has come to see me, why doesn't he reveal his true form?"

The next moment, a clear, ethereal voice echoed through the ice palace.

Clearly, in just one glance, True Monarch Yunmiao saw through Lin Changsheng's 'Disguise and Bone Shrinking' technique.

However, Yunmiao Zhenjun's tone was flat, devoid of any emotion, and one could not discern any joy or anger.

Perhaps if it were any other Golden Core cultivator, being exposed so openly by a Nascent Soul cultivator would have already filled them with dread.

Fortunately, Lin Changsheng had anticipated this and did not harbor any illusions. He remained calm and composed, managing to slip past the Nascent Soul True Monarch's watchful eye.

"Reporting to True Lord, this junior is not from the nearby cultivation world. Back then, I was being chased by enemies and had to run around hiding, facing many dangers. In order to conceal my identity, I changed my appearance and came here. By chance, I became a guest elder of the Willow Smoke Sect."

"Hiding my true appearance back then had nothing to do with joining the sect later, so I have maintained the status quo for many years without any changes."

Lin Changsheng had anticipated this, so when faced with Yunmiao Zhenjun's questioning, he spoke frankly and directly, his gaze calm and without the slightest evasion.

He knew that a mid-stage Nascent Soul True Monarch was extremely perceptive, and even the slightest flaw would be magnified infinitely in his eyes.

Anyway, he had no prior grudges against Liu Yanzong, so to be honest, he felt no pressure.

As for his name, 'Lin San Gou' is his real name in this world, so it can't be considered a deception.

As he spoke, he immediately used the 'Disguise and Bone Shrinking' technique, blurring his face and restoring his original appearance.

The next moment, Lin Changsheng, who was originally unremarkable, underwent a dramatic change in demeanor.

A refined and elegant gentleman, with a handsome face, exuding a scholarly and detached air, a tall and straight figure, deep eyes, and a warm smile.

It must be said that Lin Changsheng's image and temperament bear some resemblance to Yunmiao Zhenjun.

In an instant, a hint of surprise flashed in Yunmiao Zhenjun's eyes, and his gaze lingered on Lin Changsheng for a moment longer, as if his gaze had softened.

As the saying goes, one's appearance reflects one's heart. As one's cultivation level increases, one's character, aura, and personality will be greatly influenced by one's state of mind and cultivation techniques.

There may be a sanctimonious facade, but it won't last long.

Sometimes, whether something is good or evil can be discerned at a glance in front of a powerful figure like True Lord Yunmiao.

Lin Changsheng's refined and detached demeanor, as well as the vigorous and inexhaustible energy within him, surprised Yunmiao Zhenjun slightly, but he did not feel any aversion to him.

Yunmiao Zhenjun nodded slightly, acknowledging Lin Changsheng's explanation.

As for being hunted down by enemies and the cultivation world he originally belonged to, True Monarch Yunmiao did not inquire further.

Since Lin Changsheng is already a guest elder of the Liuyan Sect and it has been confirmed that he has no ill intentions towards the sect, that is enough.

As for Lin Changsheng's so-called enemies, how much trouble could a mid-stage Golden Core cultivator cause?

"Master Lin spent several years perfectly repairing the top-tier third-order puppet, which was beyond my expectations. It seems that you are indeed quite talented in puppet making, which is why I decided to summon you here."

Beneath her veil, True Monarch Yunmiao smiled gently and spoke in a peaceful tone:

"From the moment he stepped into the True Monarch's dojo, Master Lin's blood and qi began to circulate automatically, easily resisting the biting cold here. It seems that he also possesses a remarkable level of body refinement."

Yunmiao Zhenjun's words revealed a hint of joy that he made no attempt to hide.

What followed left Lin Changsheng utterly astonished.