Chapter 128 The Great Secret of Heaven and Earth (Bonus Chapter, Please Subscribe)
"Difficult!"
"Too difficult!"
Unlike his previous attempts to convert Qin Ruxue and Xiang Dahu,
Fang Qing felt it was extremely difficult to forcibly convert Sangji, even after defeating him to the point of losing all resistance.
His divine sense transformed into a Vajra pestle, delivering a powerful blow, continuously pounding into Sangji's sea of consciousness: "If you don't want to die—open your mind and accept my conversion!"
"Submit now!"
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"Submit! Submit! Submit!"
Within Sangji's sea of consciousness, the Vajra pestle continued to strike, accompanied by Fang Qing's fierce shouts.
"Even if the Buddha dies, his true spirit can still return to the Great Snow Mountain for reincarnation—at that time, you, this mad monk who violated the Great Snow Mountain's precepts, even the Supreme Origin Temple cannot protect you!"
Sangji, however, remained focused on his spiritual platform, occasionally responding with his spiritual sense.
To be converted meant being a slave for life.
But to die rather than submit, to be unfilial and disobedient, meant only dying once; he naturally understood the difference.
Only those who had a smattering of knowledge about the Secret Domain's methods would think that conversion was better than death.
"Stubborn fool!"
Fang Qing took out a second-tier high-grade spiritual talisman and affixed it to Sangji's forehead.
This was a second-tier spell he had specially collected, specifically targeting the sea of consciousness.
Sangji screamed, and a crack appeared in his spiritual platform, which Fang Qing seized the opportunity to enter.
Boom!
A great sun descended, carrying an irresistible majesty: "Why haven't you surrendered yet?!"
"I—I am willing to surrender—"
Sangji was already bleeding from all seven orifices, a large amount of blood gushing from his eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, yet a smile appeared on his face, and he instantly relaxed his mind.
Fang Qing's divine sense and magical power immediately reached the deepest part of his spiritual platform, where he saw a mysterious being.
It appeared as a dual-form skeletal deity, wearing a crown of five skulls, with three wide-open eyes, and four arms each holding a bone staff,
a bone bowl, a white conch shell, and a branch of the Ashoka flower—
it was the true form of the "Lord of the Corpse Forest"!
A terrifying aura instantly shook Fang Qing's mind along this connection.
In his mind, he could still hear Sangji's triumphant laughter: "You heretic who steals the Brahma teachings—you still want to convert the Buddha? Don't you know that even though you're a direct disciple of the esoteric tradition of the temple that is the origin of all teachings, you don't receive initiation or full ordination, yet you worship the Buddha in your present life as your sole secret deity? The Buddha is protected by the Lord of the charnel ground, and you still want to convert the Buddha?"
"Damn it!"
Fang Qing realized that he ultimately lacked understanding of the esoteric teachings and hadn't considered this aspect.
After all, the esoteric realm is inherently mysterious, and it emphasizes "secrecy," with many teachings not written down, making it difficult for outsiders to know the inner workings.
At this moment, Sangji let out a victorious laugh.
Compared to death and reincarnation, he had finally seized the opportunity to turn defeat into victory.
Judging from the fact that the other party actually dared to forcibly convert him, this person must not be a monk of the Great Sun Wheel Temple, but a heretic who steals the Brahma teachings!!
He deliberately mistook the other party for a direct disciple of the Great Sun Revolving Temple, then suddenly opened his mind, using this connection of salvation to draw upon the power of the "Lord of the Corpse Forest" to severely injure this powerful enemy—this was his plan to turn defeat into victory!
Fang Qing's mind was filled with trepidation as he sensed a skeletal dharma image invading his sea of consciousness through the previous connection.
Its majesty was immeasurable; even a Core Formation cultivator could not withstand it.
"Just then, the Dao-Born Pearl!"
he sighed inwardly, using his last trump card.
When facing the slovenly Taoist, the Dao-Born Pearl had been passively activated, granting him a boost in status, and his divination skills had advanced by leaps and bounds.
Fang Qing had speculated whether, if he were to be saved by a Dharma King or even a stronger being, the Dao-Born Pearl would similarly trigger a counterattack.
However, such a risk was too great, and he had never tested it.
Now, however, the arrow was on the bowstring, and he had no choice but to release it!
The Dao-Born Pearl spun rapidly, gathering pure and turbid energies, creating a cloud-like, shimmering spectacle.
The "Lord of the Corpse Forest" dharma image was instantly dissolved.
Not only that, with the help of this bead's position, Fang Qing felt his mind and spirit rise infinitely, as if he could see the origin of heaven and earth, and many terrifying things—
Boom!
He calmed his mind and, with the help of the Dao-Born Bead's position, fiercely shattered the only secret true form deep within Sangji's spiritual platform
. Then—a completely new true form emerged.
It inherited from the Great Sun, with a serene face, representing all kinds of secrets and precepts—it was the serene form of the Great Sun Tathagata!
Its appearance was vaguely similar to Fang Qing's.
But Fang Qing couldn't care less about these things.
Just now, taking advantage of the life-or-death danger, the Dao-Born Bead was passively activated, his perspective was elevated, and he seemed to see many things, yet also seemed not to see many things.
But inexplicably, some [Female Earth] cultivation and insights arose in his heart.
In terms of feeling—it's somewhat similar to the last time I directly confronted the divinity of [Stomach Earth], but far inferior—
Fang Qing silently recalled:
The Lord of the Corpse Forest, also known as the Protector of the Corpse Forest, or the Lord of the Tomb—is a subordinate position of [Female Earth]—
"Subordinate position? Is there a distinction between these positions of enlightenment?"
Moreover—he is extremely hostile to the Yin Corpse Sect and has a Daoist rivalry with them—it seems that the Yin Corpse Sect not only cultivates [Female Earth] as well, but also has beings who have attained some unknown position of [Female Earth]—"
And this Lord of the Corpse Forest is in extremely poor condition, not only severely injured, but also slumbering for many years—even Buddhist decrees are difficult to issue—the kind that would immediately perish if forcibly awakened—"
"Thank goodness! If this being were in excellent condition, it might have been truly activated—or perhaps it harbored a
wisp of Buddha-nature within Sangji, in which case I would have been in deep trouble—the 'Master of the Corpse Forest' within Sangji's mind was merely a manifestation of the white bone Dharma image of the Wuxiang Temple of All Beings, observed day and night, and possessed no true Buddha-nature.
Not only the Master of the Corpse Forest—
thinking of the vision of his Dao-Born Pearl just now, Fang Qing's heart was filled with excitement: most of the Golden Core True Monarchs in this world, even those on the 'Yearly Duty'—are in very poor condition, almost unable to act—
therefore, after the recent ancient calendar, True Monarchs have disappeared—not because they were unwilling, but because they were unable."
What exactly happened at the end of the ancient era, when the recent ancient 'Fang Ri' attained enlightenment? What caused most beings above the Golden Rank to meet such an end? "
Perhaps even several 'Yearly Duty' positions are vacant?"
When Fang Qing came to his senses, he saw Sangji prostrating himself on the ground, bowing deeply in reverence: "Sangji pays respects to the Venerable One!"
"Oh? What did you see?" Sensing
that this person had been converted by him and would henceforth obey his every command, Fang Qing breathed a sigh of relief and asked curiously.
"Sangji sees the Venerable One as if he sees the Great Sun Tathagata."
—Sangji
's face was full of piety: "This humble monk is willing to offer all his cultivation, wealth, and consorts to the Venerable One—"
"Hmm, that's not urgent. First, tell me why you came to subdue me?"
Fang Qing waved his hand.
"Yes, Venerable One—this must be the guidance of the Great Sun Tathagata!" Sangji said: "Sangji thought that by subduing the heretics, he could complete his destiny and challenge the Dharma King—but he did not expect that the Venerable One lacked subordinates and needed Sangji to come and be at the Venerable One's command—if the Venerable One had spoken earlier, Sangji would have knelt at the Venerable One's feet long ago—"
Sangji answered with piety and fervor.
"Alright—from today onwards, keep our affair a secret. Tell everyone that you subdued me and took me as your Mingzi—"
Fang Qing waved his hand. "By the way, is there still a vacancy for your position as one of the Five Mingzi?"
"There is still the position of Miao Huo Mingzi, whose reincarnation is currently that of a pig or a dog—this humble monk originally planned to go and guide him later."
"Alright, then let him continue being a pig or a dog. I will take Miao Huo's position for now."
Fang Qing frowned slightly. "You must not reveal any flaws in front of outsiders in the future."
"As you command."
Sangji kowtowed repeatedly.
"Also—think about how to conceal this from the Wuxiang Temple of All Beings." Fang Qing felt that he knew too little about the Secret Realm and let Sangji figure it out himself.
Sangji thought for a moment: "Does Your Excellency wish to temporarily use Wusheng Temple for cultivation? And yet you do not wish to reveal your identity? In truth, after I openly subdue Your Excellency, I will be qualified to attain the Unretrogressive Realm, and the Secret Treasury Domain will also force me to break through—but we can delay it for a while, demanding Purple Mansion spiritual objects and various resources from the Secret Treasury Domain to aid in the breakthrough—this way we can at least delay it for ten or eight years—"
"And if we really cannot delay any longer, I will go into seclusion at Wusheng Temple to break through to the Dharma King realm—breaking through to the Purple Mansion realm is a matter of great importance, taking as little as ten years, or as long as several decades—therefore, delaying it for forty or fifty years is my limit." "
If I succeed in breaking through and advance to the Dharma King realm—then I will have great power in my hands, and protecting Your Excellency's cultivation will be a piece of cake." "
If I fail in breaking through, I can at least maintain it for several decades, as long as Your Excellency does not order the opening of the seclusion chamber—" "
What is the probability of your success in breaking through in seclusion?" Fang Qing frowned.
Having finally found a chance to truly join the secret system and find a warm family, he didn't want to be exposed or lose his background.
In Ancient Shu, without the backing of a sect at least at the Gold rank, it was practically impossible to move an inch.
He knew in his heart that if Sangji truly converted him, the chances of successfully breaking through to the Purple Mansion realm in seclusion were high.
But that wasn't the case, was it?
Therefore, the probability of breaking through in seclusion should be very low.
"Less than thirty percent—"
Sangji clasped his hands together and smiled as he replied, "But for the sake of the Venerable One, this humble monk is willing to use this crippled body to delay—"
"Alright, let's do as you say."
Fang Qing sighed.
Being able to gain several decades was already quite good.
After all, he was in his late Foundation Establishment stage at over sixty years old, and he could form his Core around the age of one hundred.
At that time, with the Tide-Born Pearl, he might barely be comparable to the mid-stage of Core Formation.
In Ancient Shu, he would finally have the strength to cross the Hehuan Sect and head to the authentic territory of the Taiyi Xuanmen.
Wusheng Temple.
Miaoshui Mingfei suddenly looked up at the sky and saw two streaks of light descending.
Sangji Guru walked ahead, beaming.
"Greetings, Guru!"
Miaoshui Mingfei quickly bowed, only then noticing Fang Qing behind Sangji.
Sangji spoke: "Miaoshui—I have subdued this heretic and prepare to establish him as Mingzi, to inherit Miaohuo's position."
"Yes, I will obey your command."
Although this differed from what had been said before, sensing that the Guru held her life in his hands, Miaoshui dared not voice any objection.
"Since I have subdued the heretic, then Qingjing, Miaofeng, and Miaoshan, recall them. Colluding with demons is ultimately not good."
Sangji added, "I will go into seclusion to perform the initiation ceremony for the new Mingzi—"
"Yes, congratulations, Guru."
The joy on Miaoshui's face was genuine.
Guru's destiny was complete, about to break through to the Dharma King level—I will also be Tara from now on.
Rumble!
After the gates closed and were protected by the mandala rituals, Sangji immediately changed his expression, his face full of fawning smiles: "Is Your Excellency satisfied with this place? Do you need the services of Miaoshui and Qingjing, who practice the joyful Dharma of our path?"
"No need."
Fang Qing wasn't so eager to take on someone else's concubine. "By the way—tell me everything you've learned."
"Yes! This humble monk mainly studies the *Spiritual Sutra of the Primordial Monk of the Corpse Forest*, the foundation of which is the contemplation of white bones," requiring the ingestion of "fragrant qi from bone seeds"—this qi requires finding a place of white bones, and gathering qi using a secret method on the first and fifteenth of each lunar month—it takes three years to complete—"
"There is also the *Kalachakra Sutra*, the *Abuddha Sutra*—"
"The *Guiding Method*, the *Reincarnation Method*, and so on—"
The more Fang Qing listened, the brighter his eyes became.
This was equivalent to the entire foundation of a true disciple of sects like Moyun Cliff and the Yin Corpse Sect.
"Reincarnation method? This method requires passing through the Great Snow Mountain. Once the true spirit departs, all secrets are lost—it's definitely not suitable for me, but I can create a private server—"
"Including this 'The Corpse Forest Master's Discourse on the Earthly Branches,' I now possess three Purple Mansion cultivation methods."
Just then, Sangji said, "Venerable One—to create the illusion of receiving my initiation from outside venerable ones, one must possess the foundational power of the Earthly Branches—otherwise, there will ultimately be some flaws."
According to the secret initiation method, one can only receive the power of the master's own cultivation method.
For example, when Fang Qing initiates someone, it is with the power of the 'Great Sun Initiation Secret Technique.'
But Sangji's main cultivation method is Earthly Branches!
Therefore, if Fang Qing wants to impersonate Mingzi, he also needs to possess the power of Earthly Branches and be close to the foundational level.
However, what is extremely difficult for others is merely a matter of a moment for Fang Qing.
"What's so difficult about that? Do you have any Bone Seed Incense?"
Fang Qing laughed and asked.
"There is indeed a path, this Qi ranks among the seventh-grade superior level—extremely wondrous." Sangji
took out a lotus flower, its stamen emanating a subtle, fragrant aura.
Several days later.
Fang Qing thoroughly read the *Spirit of the Forest Master's Discourse on the Land of Women*, ingested the *Bone Seed Fragrance*, and instantly established his Dao foundation, mastering the *White Bone Contemplation*.
"Truly a Venerable One, your supernatural powers are immeasurable."
Sangji was utterly impressed.
"Alright. Get up before you speak..."
Fang Qing slowly recalled the various methods Sangji had taught him, but finally spoke: "Sangji... in your heart, why is this world like this?"
He needed to learn and understand the many hidden methods.
But what he wanted to know more about was the understanding of the world held by a direct disciple of a Golden Core sect.
"This world is corrupt, filled with demons... only a Venerable One ascending to the highest position can cleanse the universe."
Sangji once again prostrated himself.
"Never mind... let's talk about the cultivation world."
Fang Qing waved his hand speechlessly, realizing he had been foolish to ask a religious person such a question.
"In the cultivation world, those at the Foundation stage and those who merely absorb Qi are like ants. Only those who achieve the Purple Mansion Dharma King level are considered half a chess player, and only the Great True Persons at the late Purple Mansion stage can influence the fate of the world..."
Sangji said, his hands clasped together.
'So I'm still just an ant?'
Fang Qing chuckled self-deprecatingly, then asked, "What do you know about the Supreme Origin Temple, the 'Great Sun Revolving Temple' atop the Great Snow Mountain?" "
This temple was built in ancient times, the exact period is unknown... It enshrines the supreme deity of our Great Sun Esoteric School—the Great Sun Tathagata!"
Sangji said devoutly. "The monks of this temple mainly cultivate [Star Sun], but rarely enter the world... and rely on initiation for transmission, rarely absorbing Qi..."
"Oh? Why is that? Is it because Great Sun Purple Qi is scarce?"
Fang Qing asked curiously.
Unexpectedly, Sangji laughed: "How could the Great Sun Revolving Temple lack 'Great Sun Purple Qi'?" "There's as much as you want... but back then, a Buddhist decree was issued to kill all the orthodox cultivators of the Great Sun lineage, so they gradually stopped practicing Qi cultivation..." "
Again?"
Fang Qing frowned: "Could it be that the one who banned 'Great Sun Purple Qi' is the Great Sun Tathagata?" "
Not so... This humble monk once heard a Dharma King say that the one who banned Great Sun Purple Qi was the one on [Fang Ri]..."
Sangji said: "But the Great Snow Mountain also tacitly approved of this matter, otherwise, how could that one person possibly seal off the world?"
"Indeed... there's a great secret in that 'Great Sun True Explanation'!"
Fang Qing thought to himself.
The ancient Great Sun lineage cultivators are no longer tolerated in the present world.
The ancient method allowed for Qi gathering and Qi cultivation, but the new method now requires Qi absorption; even the first breath of true Qi is unacceptable to mortals. It's clear that the highest level doesn't want too many cultivators.
"And that [Fang Ri] True Lord, his enlightenment coincided with the beginning of the near-ancient calendar, and since then, True Lords have rarely appeared in the world... He also forbade orthodox cultivators of the Great Sun lineage. No matter how you look at it
, there's a great secret..." "But now is not the time for me to explore."
...
Boom!
The temple gates burst open.
Sangji strode out, followed by Fang Qing.
"Greetings, Master!"
The four Mingzi were all present; Miaofeng, Miaoshui, Miaoshan, and Qingjing all bowed respectfully.
They glanced at the 'Fire Rakshasa Bowl' in Fang Qing's hand, their expressions varying.
"Enough."
Sangji waved his hand, smiling broadly, "Having obtained Fang Shui, my destiny is complete... I prepare to go into seclusion to study the Brahma Dharma, preparing to attain the stage of irreversible progress..."
"Congratulations, Master!"
Miaofeng and the other Mingzi were overjoyed.
If Sangji succeeded, it would be of immense benefit to them; with a wave of his hand, they could achieve the shame of becoming Tara and other great beings! His strength went from a disgrace to the Foundation Establishment stage to a disgrace to the Purple Mansion stage in an instant! Controlling a Foundation Establishment cultivator was relatively easy. It was a meteoric rise.
Therefore, everyone was extremely sincere.
"Alright, and... I have already taken Fang Shuimingzi in and bestowed upon him the Brahma artifact 'Fire Ridge,' replacing Miao Huo's position."
Sangji glanced at Fang Qing and continued, "From today onwards, Fang Shuimingzi is the head of the Five Bright Ones. During my seclusion, he will be responsible for handling all matters of the White Bone Path."
In an ordinary power, such an appointment of a second-in-command would definitely cause a power struggle. But under the Secret Treasury Domain system, these Bright Ones and Bright Consorts, even if they harbored some dissatisfaction, could only endure it. Otherwise, Sangji could have easily crippled his magic power and replaced him with anyone else.
Fang Qing kept his eyes down, appearing very humble. In reality, this was all part of what he had discussed with Sangji beforehand.
Fate is something that is always deeply hidden, especially for high-level cultivators. Unless Sangji opens his mind and allows a Dharma King to examine him, it's unlikely that any clues will be discovered. Therefore, if he says his destiny is complete, then it is complete. He might even be able to swindle a Purple Mansion spiritual object from the Temple of All Beings Without Form!
Of course, Fang Qing also very much hopes that Sangji can truly break through to the Purple Mansion. In that case, he would have a Purple Mansion subordinate. Unfortunately, this hope is extremely slim. Moreover, if the breakthrough to the Purple Mansion fails, the cultivator will inevitably perish, his Dao disintegrating into the world, beyond saving.
Now, he has finally been embedded in the Secret Treasury system and gained a birth... allowing him to live freely for several decades. "It's just a pity that it's only for these few decades."
Fang Qing sighed softly, watching Sangji leave.
"Fang Shuimingzi... I have offended you greatly before, please be magnanimous."
Miao Fengmingzi's expression changed several times, alternating between pale and flushed, finally managing to force a smile.
"That's right... If Mingzi wants me to apologize in any way, I will gladly do it."
Qingjing Mingfei smiled charmingly, throwing a flirtatious wink.
The two of them were responsible for chasing Fang Shui, and even though they didn't catch him, they still offended him a little.
"Not at all... I should thank you both, otherwise how could I have such a great opportunity?"
Fang Qing smiled slightly and tapped the 'Fire Bowl' in his hand.
The [Lady's] magical power and the Brahma light of the Six-Syllable Mantra made Miao Shui and Miao Shan nod in admiration, and they were even a little envious: "This Brahma artifact can release red lotus fire. We have been longing for it for a long time, but in the end, it was taken by that shameless Miao Huo... That Miao Huo is rude, and we have never liked him..." "
I see."
Fang Qing smiled and didn't say whether he believed it or not, but said, "Take me to the storeroom first..."
...
Wusheng Temple, underground.
Two fierce-looking statues guarded the dungeon door.
"These two statues possess the power of Vajrabhairava, and are further blessed by the 'Killing Speech Mantra' and the 'Vajrabhairava Mantra'... Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator cannot break through them quickly..."
Miao Shui Mingfei, with her supple figure and captivating charm, led the way: "Only with our [Ladies'] Avalokitesvara White Bone Mantra can they be opened..."
After opening the dungeon, rows of enormous boxes were seen.
Fang Qing lightly flicked his sleeve.
*Click!
Click!
* The boxes opened, radiating the brilliance of various spiritual objects.
Piles of spiritual rice, various precious medicines... even Qi-cultivating spiritual objects, Foundation Establishment spiritual objects...
filled the entire warehouse!
"This... I thought the spiritual resources of this world were extremely scarce."
Fang Qing picked up a Foundation Establishment spiritual object, a Pure Flower Branch, and couldn't help but sigh.
"This world does indeed produce very few spiritual objects, but it has many blessed lands... especially the ancient and primordial blessed lands, which have accumulated countless treasures, even those of the Purple Mansion level... Many forces have accumulated for hundreds or
thousands of years, so they must have a substantial fortune.
"Moreover... lower-level cultivators may not see many good things, but we are the White Bone Path here!"
Miao Feng Mingzi smiled proudly, and added, "If one day Mingzi goes to the treasure vault of the Temple of No Forms of All Beings, then he will know what it means to have treasures soaring to the sky..."
Fang Qing nodded and came to a large golden vat.
The vat was full of ghee, filled with a strong medicinal aroma. Just a slight sniff made his blood and qi stir slightly.
"This is 'Dragon Elephant Ghee'... a great medicine for body refining in my Secret Domain, suitable for various secret cultivation techniques,"
Qing Jing Mingfei introduced to Fang Qing.
"What a treasure... Such a large vat! It's enough for me to cultivate to the second-tier high-grade body refinement, or even the third-tier body refinement."
Fang Qing waved his hand. "Send it to my room."
"This..."
Miao Shan and the others exchanged glances, and finally nodded.
Anyway, this was the head of all the Bright Children appointed by the Master, so he would take responsibility if anything happened.
"Alright..."
After briefly touring the six underground vaults, Fang Qing went to the White Bone Temple and asked, "Who is usually in charge of the temple's affairs?"
Consort Miao Shan stepped forward: "It's this servant... In case of major events, I will inform Consort Miao Shui, who will then report to the Master."
"Very good, then let's continue with this model. The operation of the White Bone Path depends on you, Miao Shan... Inform me again if there are any major events."
Fang Qing looked at the other four Bright Children and Bright Children: "I have finally obtained a rare opportunity, and I plan to go into seclusion to digest it properly. Please make yourselves at home."
"Yes!"
Miao Feng and the other Bright Children and Bright Children exchanged glances, and then nodded and withdrew.
They were secretly pleased that Fang Qing had not stripped them of their power.
Miao Fengmingzi and Qing Jingmingfei exchanged a strange glance.
This kind of situation—from mortal enemies yesterday to colleagues today—was commonplace in the Secret Realm.
"What about the silver bottle?"
Miao Fengmingzi secretly whispered to Qing Jingmingfei, "You've taken advantage of her completely. What if she comes knocking on our door?"
"Hmph, just a mere demonic witch…does she really dare to cause trouble in our White Bone Path?"
Qing Jingmingfei smiled slightly, her eyes sparkling. "We'll secretly give this new Mingzi a generous gift…and everything will be resolved."
"You're too kind…"
Miao Fengmingzi greedily glanced at Qing Jingmingfei's exquisite figure, but dared not overstep his bounds.
After all, she was his master's consort!
Before his master spoke, he wouldn't dare to overstep his bounds even if he had ten lives.
…
"Finally…"
Fang Qing closed the door, set up a protective array, and let out a long sigh.
"Things can be a bit safer here in Ancient Shu."
"With this identity, even when trading with forces at the Purple Mansion level, I don't have to worry about them suddenly turning on me and taking everything... Of course, the premise is that the treasures traded don't arouse the Purple Mansion's greed." "
Otherwise, if the Purple Mansion kills someone and runs away, can I really expect Sangji to avenge me?"
Inside the Wusheng Temple,
Fang Qing tried using the 'Dragon Elephant Butter' for body tempering, and the effect far surpassed that of the previous Vajra Butter. He realized that Jin Ling'er had most likely been tricked by the secret monks.
Before going into seclusion, he made a special trip back to Jade Island to return the Xuanbing Heavenly Curtain Array. After
all
, Qin Ruxue bore a huge responsibility for him, and if this were discovered, the best outcome would be her removal from her position as the island's lord.
Fang Qing certainly didn't want that; he hoped Ruxue could become a third-tier array master in the future, so she could be better used by him.
He slowly sorted through Sangji's true teachings, gaining a much deeper understanding of the secret methods.
"The Great Snow Mountain lineage is indeed incredibly strange… even reincarnation is involved, although it's limited to the secret realm, it's still quite remarkable." "
That Great Sun Tathagata is also quite remarkable, actually managing to subdue several beings above the Golden Rank as his subordinates..." "
As for the Secret Dharma, it emphasizes hierarchical control. Without a position, it's difficult to advance; without a master's guidance, one remains at the bottom for life... It's quite friendly to those in higher positions."
In Fang Qing's view, the most extraordinary aspects of the Secret Dharma are naturally the two great methods of 'Initiation' and 'Reincarnation'.
The former needs no further explanation, while the latter, by utilizing the power of the Great Snow Mountain, allows one to retain all memories and reincarnate once more. If this were known, countless cultivators in the Little Sorrow Sea would be envious.
'However, in another reincarnation, one's aptitude doesn't necessarily need to be better; instead, there are many more physical bodies, bloodlines, and karmic connections...'
'What can be achieved in one lifetime is best achieved in one lifetime.'
As Sangji's master, Fang Qing vaguely understood the attitudes of these high-ranking members of the Secret Dharma towards reincarnation.
"However, it's quite obvious... my old tricks might work against other cultivators of the Purple Mansion realm from the demonic and righteous paths...
but against the shameless Secret Treasury Dharma King, they'll likely be ineffective." "Besides these two major methods, the Secret Treasury's body tempering and incantations are quite profound... but their other skills in alchemy, medicine making, weapon crafting, and array formations are rather ordinary."
Of course, this "ordinary" is only relative to other Golden Core sects.
For independent cultivators, it's still far superior.
...
Several months later.
Fang Qing, using the 'Six-Syllable Great Bright Mantra,' rode the Fire Rakshasa Bowl, standing atop this sacred artifact, surveying the entire Xituo County.
Although this county was located in a remote area, its population was nearly ten million.
However, there was no Purple Mansion power stationed there, only a few Dao Foundation families, all of whom had now submitted to the White Bone Path.
Behind him followed Consort Miaoshui, who was introducing Fang Qing:
"This Xituo County has many spiritual fields. The Master founded the White Bone Path, subduing various families, and every year they can harvest tens of thousands of shi of spiritual grain, as well as countless materials for making talismans, refining pills, and forging weapons..." "
But what our Great Sun Esoteric Sect values most is the incense offerings of these millions of people..."
Fang Qing listened to Consort Miaoshui's introduction, nodding occasionally.
Unlike the carefree immortal path, the Esoteric Sect is based on faith and propagation, which is the fundamental difference between the two sects, and he has not yet fully understood it.
"There are several Dao Foundation Families in this county, such as the Zeng family, who have cultivated [Zui Fire] for generations, as well as the Lishan Yuan family, the Dahu Xuan family... Their lineages are a bit mixed, with some cultivating [Well Wood], [Willow Earth], [Female Earth], and [Geng Metal]... But without the Purple Mansion Technique, they can't be said to have any lineage, and can only be considered as miscellaneous rural cultivators."
Fang Qing understood.
These Qi Consumer and Foundation Establishment cultivators, even if their ancestors were once wealthy, have lost their Purple Mansion inheritance and can only be considered fallen families. They are too ashamed to talk about their lineage.
Compared to the Great Snow Mountain, a prominent lineage
in this world, they are not even worth a second glance. "The Zeng family that Mingzi is going to is the strongest among all the families. They have one mid-Foundation stage cultivator and two early-Foundation stage cultivators..."
Miao Shui Mingfei added.
"[Zui Fire] is indeed a prominent lineage in this world... Their fire control techniques are quite famous."
Fang Qing had also read the information about this family and smiled.
"[Zui Fire] is mainly ethereal and is also known as 'Fisherman's Lamp Fire'... Its power is only average among the various fire virtues..."
Miao Shui Mingfei was not concerned at all: "If it weren't for the fact that you, Mingzi, happen to need one of their treasured Foundation Establishment spiritual items, we wouldn't have had to make this trip... In fact, in my opinion, we could just issue a decree and have the Zeng family obediently send the spiritual item to Wusheng Temple."
Fang Qing was quite speechless.
He found many spiritual items suitable for the [Ji Shui] cultivation method within the Wusheng Temple's underground vault.
After further inquiry, he learned that the Zeng family possessed a 'Life Spring Flower,' a spiritual medicine suitable for those at the early to mid-stage of the [Ji Shui] Dao Foundation stage, and he had specifically come to exchange for it.
Unexpectedly, the temple's Mingzi and Mingfei had such an attitude.
'This treacherous monk's arrogance is evident.'
Fang Qing sighed inwardly, then smiled and said, "I was also feeling restless from cultivation and came out for a walk… to see the sights of Xituo County."
"Although we can cultivate, why would we need to? Once our master breaks through to the Dharma King level, we will all be disciples and mothers… I alone can sweep through the aristocratic families of Xituo County,"
Miao Shui Mingfei said with a grin.
Although Mingzi and Mingfei could cultivate on their own, in reality, most of those promoted were of average talent.
Their own arduous cultivation over decades or even centuries was not as astonishing as a single breakthrough and promotion by their master!
Over time, these enlightened children and consorts stopped cultivating and became preoccupied with worldly affairs, no wonder they were all afflicted with the five poisons.
Fang Qing rode the Fire Rakshasa Bowl to the spiritual mountain where the Zeng family was located, and saw a small town at the foot of the mountain, with many spiritual fields cultivated around it.
At this time, a light rain was falling, and many farmers were busy working in the fields, a scene full of vitality.
Not far away on the mountain, a layer of crimson light stretched out, clearly a Dao Foundation Formation, protecting the Zeng family's foundation within.
'Truly a fine foundation…'
Fang Qing thought to himself.
'Now that my identity is out in the open, even if Fang Qing's true identity in Sanshui'ao is exposed, it won't matter… Should I take care of the Fang family and bring over the descendants of Fang Jingchun and the other two to settle them?'
'With my current status, a little care would make them a powerful family, and in the future, a Dao Foundation family would be within my grasp…'
'But they're almost beyond the fifth degree of kinship, so I'd better not.'
'More importantly, it's best to keep this identity hidden, as it still has some entanglements… For example, the destruction of the Tianshui Luo family, and the actions of Pu Shanjun back then, combined with the recent birthday banquet, are quite intriguing…' 'It
's best to keep this identity hidden.'
…
While Fang Qing was lost in thought, Miao Shui Mingzi had already cast a secret incantation.
The incantation transformed into the form of a celestial maiden, directly entering the Zeng family's grand formation, and shouted: "Mingzi and Mingfei have descended! Why doesn't
the Zeng family come to welcome them?" Not long after, three streaks of light flew in, none other than the three Dao Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Zeng family.
Among them, the one in the mid-stage of Dao Foundation Establishment was the Zeng family's patriarch, Zeng Qingye.
"I was unaware of your arrival, I have failed to greet you properly..."
Zeng Qingye's face was full of flattery, which made Fang Qing feel a chill.
This person was, after all, in the mid-stage of Dao Foundation Establishment, and in terms of apparent strength, he far surpassed the two of them, but due to the hidden power, he had to be humble and subservient. At his age, his eyebrows and beard were all white, yet he was still flattering two juniors, which made him seem somewhat pathetic.
'As long as this person has a weakness...'
He had a thought, knowing that he only needed to secretly protect the Fang family and ensure that their lineage did not end, and there was no need to worry about anything else, lest they become a burden.
Zeng Qingye smiled and invited Fang Qing and Miaoshui Mingfei into the main hall of the house, where a servant immediately served tea.
Miao Shui didn't drink the tea, but stared at the male waiter with a cold expression: "Why isn't a young woman serving tea? This Fang Shuimingzi is the Master's most prized disciple. Why don't you quickly offer up your family's best woman?"
Fang Qing's face fell. Having a powerful backer was good, but how did it come to this level of bullying men and women?
Zeng Qingye's face stiffened, and he gritted his teeth and gave a few orders. Immediately, a young woman with lips like cinnabar and eyes like autumn water smiled and brought forward with tea: "Mingzi, please have some tea..."
Fang Qing took it, and his hand casually touched hers, immediately feeling the woman's delicate body tremble slightly.
'Even if a large family has the best upbringing, hearing that she's going to be sent to a temple is still frightening.'
He had a sudden thought and slapped her: "The Buddha doesn't need your service, get out!"
The young woman covered her cheek, cried, and ran out of the hall, feeling inexplicably relieved, yet also somewhat lost.
"Alright, let's get down to business."
Fang Qing took a sip of tea and said casually.
Zeng Qingye and the two Foundation Establishment cultivators exchanged glances, both thinking to themselves: 'I've always heard that most of the Mingzi from the Secret Realm are tyrannical and fickle... truly living up to their reputation. Luckily, Yuchai doesn't have to go into that fire pit.'
"I wonder what brings you here, Mingzi? "
Zeng Qingye forced a smile and asked, secretly praying that it wasn't because he was lacking materials for some kind of offering artifact. "Nothing much... I've taken a fancy to one of your 'Life Spring Flowers'..." Fang Qing was about to suggest that he could exchange it for a few [Zhen Shui] spiritual items when Zeng Qingye immediately said, "I'll go get it right away..." " This..." Fang Qing thought back to his own hardships and the deal with the [Jiaomu] Pi family, and was taken aback. "You agreed so easily?" "This business is too good to pass up!" Not long after, a flash of light appeared, and Zeng Qingye entered the hall carrying a medicine pouch, presenting it with both hands: "My family cultivates fire virtue, so this water virtue spiritual item is useless to us... It's my family's good fortune that Mingzi has taken a liking to it." Although she said this, her heart was bleeding. This "Life Spring Flower" was no ordinary Dao Foundation spiritual item; she could exchange it for countless benefits. Unfortunately, an unwelcome guest had come, and she had no choice but to bleed heavily. "This... a free gift?" Fang Qing sighed inwardly, having underestimated the value of this hidden White Bone Dao. He took the medicine pouch, scanned it with his divine sense, and saw a strange flower the size of a bowl inside, with drops of spring water constantly dripping from its petals. "This medicine pouch can store medicinal properties, making it excellent for storing this Life Spring Flower... Furthermore, this flower is delicate and cannot be exposed to the energy of metal or fire, otherwise it will surely wither..." Zeng Qingye carefully explained some precautions, which made Fang Qing smile broadly: "Good... Your Zeng family is indeed loyal, so I will make the decision to exempt your family from offerings this year."
"Hmm?"
Zeng Qingye looked at Miaoshui Mingfei with surprise and uncertainty.
Miaoshui simply smiled and drank her tea, then said after a moment, "I said before that this Mingzi is of noble status and presides over the affairs of the entire temple... Since she has spoken, it is naturally unnecessary."
"Thank you, Mingzi."
Zeng Qingye was overjoyed. Although the offerings this year were still not as valuable as the "Life Spring Flower," at least it wasn't a complete loss, and his family could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
"Haha... I'm in a good mood today, how about we all discuss the Dao together?"
Fang Qing became talkative: "I only know that this [Zui Fire] is also known as 'Fisherman's Lamp Fire,' but I wonder what mysteries this [Zui Fire] Dao foundation holds?"
Cultivators exchanging cultivation experiences and even discussing the Dao are all ways to improve their cultivation.
It wasn't that he didn't want to discuss the Dao at Wusheng Temple, but the other four Mingzi and Mingfei were all inferior to him in terms of cultivation!
They were all useless people who couldn't even form a Dao foundation if they seriously cultivated!
Only Sangji, with her genuinely perfected [Earth] Dao Foundation, truly benefited Fang Qing immensely.
Zeng Qingye was taken aback, then spoke: "My family's Dao Foundation is called 'Stagnant Clouds and Smoke,' quite profound, capable of enhancing escape techniques... manipulating qi to traverse the sky, parting clouds and smoke."
He nodded in acknowledgment, and a Zeng family cultivator at the early stage of Dao Foundation immediately activated the profound mysteries of his Dao Foundation, revealing its manifestation.
Fang Qing suddenly saw the world darken, the Yangtze River shimmer, and within it, a flame seemed to flicker uncertainly.
Zeng Qingye's voice drifted over slowly: "[Zui Fire] is fickle and unpredictable, a fire of uncertain nature... If it falls upon one's destiny, it signifies a life of wandering and uncertainty... We, at least, have already forged our foundation and can suppress our own fate... However, many of my disciples who cultivate [Zui Fire] suffer hardship and die far from home..."
Zeng Qingye spoke calmly, but in his heart he thought, "My family has only been established here for a hundred years, and this Xituo County has already changed hands... This also reflects the fickle nature of [Zui Fire]. Alas... If it weren't for the rarity of foundational Dao inheritance, and the fact that this method is of the fire element, with astonishing power in combat, my family would have changed it long ago... At least we would cultivate several different Dao lineages to avoid being restrained. But... how rare are good cultivation methods without hidden dangers?"
After this discussion, Fang Qing was satisfied and left the Zeng family.
Miao Shui, standing beside him, was somewhat drowsy from listening, leaving him speechless.
"This secret initiation method is a blessing for those with low aptitude and poor character..."
"Mingzi, are you still going to visit the other schools?"
Miaoshui asked. "As long as Mingzi is willing to step into the threshold of those schools, they will definitely offer a Dao Foundation Spiritual Object as a token of their appreciation." "Forget it, this Life Spring Flower is truly excellent, but if it were refined into a large pill, the effect would be even better..." Fang Qing
shook his head. The secret tradition certainly also has a pill-refining system, but it's a fire-based method, and quite unorthodox.
According to Fang Qing, the inheritance in Sangji's hands is at least at the third level.
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and extract the essence to refine this "Life Spring Flower" into a great pill that can assist [Ji Shui] cultivators in breaking through to the mid-stage of the Dao Foundation stage!
"This secret alchemy method relies heavily on blood energy and human resources... it's completely a demonic method."
"I can only barely absorb some alchemy concepts to enrich my own water-based alchemy method."
Fang Qing returned to Wusheng Temple, dismissed Miao Shui, and went to Sangji's secluded cultivation room.
This great monk claimed to be in seclusion, but he was actually just killing time.
He had previously given Sangji a few tasks to complete.
"Reporting to Your Excellency... Ancient Shu and the Secret Realm are, after all, inland regions, and there aren't many Water Virtue cultivators... To truly find a Water Virtue sect or
family with a Purple Mansion lineage... I'm afraid we'll have to go further east." Sangji, holding a scroll of documents, said, "This humble monk has consulted many scriptures and confirmed that under the jurisdiction of the Joyful Union Sect, there is a Purple Mansion family that has cultivated the [Ji Water] lineage for generations... Further east, in the southeast, there is a 'Canghai Sect,' which has the Purple Mansion level [Zhen Water] and [Ji Water] lineages..."
Such lineages are not something that can be achieved simply by possessing a Purple Mansion cultivation technique.
They also require suitable spiritual lands for cultivating Water Virtue, various breakthrough techniques, supporting spells, magical artifacts... as well as various spiritual herbs, resource supply chains, and even production channels for Purple Mansion spiritual objects!
"A Purple Mansion family under the jurisdiction of the Hehuan Sect?"
Fang Qing's heart stirred. "What are the details?"
"The Bai family of Dongshui. Their ancestor has the cultivation of the early Purple Mansion stage..."
Sangji explained in detail, then clasped his hands together. "In addition... I have already sent the news back to the Wuxiang Temple of All Beings. The temple is very pleased and should send someone to deliver a Purple Mansion spiritual item... If Your Excellency needs it, you may take it."
"Oh?" Fang Qing's eyes lit up. "What kind of spiritual item is it?"
"It is a 'Yin Earth Spiritual Wall.' This item has the effect of slightly stimulating the Dao Foundation and generating supernatural powers. Of course, it is only suitable for [Female Earth] cultivators." Sangji said with his hands clasped together.
Fang Qing pondered for a moment.
If he wanted to secure his gains, it would naturally be best to take the Purple Mansion spiritual item and run away.
However, in doing so, Sangji's probability of breaking through to the Purple Mansion stage was already low, and now he had almost no hope at all.
"And if I take a gamble... if I succeed, I'll have a Purple Mansion stage fighter!"
"Even if I lack spiritual materials for my future breakthrough, having Sangji do it is much better than me searching for them myself...
"This 'Yin Earth Spirit Wall' probably won't increase my chances much... Even if I can use it myself, I'm not even at the mid-stage of the Foundation Establishment realm yet." "Furthermore, even if I reach the Foundation Establishment stage and transform into the [Female Earth] technique, the success rate of breaking through with this technique is incredibly low... Fang Qing is certain that he is best at water-based techniques.
Other cultivation paths can only be transformed using the Dao Life Pearl, and his own cultivation speed is as slow as a tortoise. To advance to the Purple Mansion realm with this is a pipe dream." "Forget it..."
Fang Qing waved his hand: "Keep this for yourself... When there's no longer any time to delay, I'll fight with all my might and hope to succeed."
To obtain a Purple Mansion stage fighter, he is willing to go all out. Except for the fact that he can't give his own life to Sangji, he can maximize all other external conditions.
"A word from the Venerable One is enough!"
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Sangji put his hands together, his originally fierce face now full of solemnity, which made Fang Qing feel a chill.
"This secret initiation method... is truly brutal. It can twist human nature in the blink of an eye...
Several days later.
"This fire-based alchemy emphasizes the roles of the principal, assistant, and adjuvant herbs... If the heat is not properly controlled, the medicinal properties will be greatly lost..."
Fang Qing held a scripture in his hand, thinking about how to refine the "Life Spring Flower," when he suddenly sensed that the restrictions outside the cave had been disturbed. He immediately put away the scripture and went out of the cave.
Waiting outside the cave was Miao Shui Mingfei.
Her eyes lit up as she saw a young man in blue robes walking gracefully towards her, his steps exuding a calm and unhurried air.
"This Mingzi's demeanor surpasses that of Miao Huo by far...
"More importantly, why do I vaguely feel as if I'm seeing a master when I see this person... This kind of majesty is even more rare..." Miao Shui bowed gracefully: "Ming..." "
Is there a major problem in the temple that I can ask you to come?"
Fang Qing frowned and asked.
The Wusheng Temple has always been managed by Miaoshan, and with the assistance of Miaoshui and the other two Mingzi and Mingfei, this constitutes the four foundational battle forces.
In any place, as long as the Zifu doesn't intervene, they can basically handle any situation.
And Miaoshui, who accompanied him to the Zeng family last time, although somewhat arrogant, is a clever person and wouldn't rashly disturb him. "Indeed, there is important business,"
Mingfei Miaoshui said gracefully, "A noble person from the Qingniao Tribe has come to visit. Their status is so esteemed that we cannot..."
"The Qingniao Tribe? After swallowing Beixuan County, weren't they surrounded by powerful forces and currently engaged in a great war? Could they be trying to drag us into this?"
Fang Qing frowned, asking as he walked, "What is the background of this noble person?" "
That
noble person has a very impressive background, with a noble bloodline... Does Mingzi know about the demon race's holy land, 'Luofeng Mountain'?" Miaoshui asked.
"Of course I know..."
Fang Qing nodded.
"Fallen Phoenix Mountain gets its name from a phoenix that landed there in ancient times... That lady was a great figure who attained the Golden Rank, but she has gradually stopped interfering in affairs since ancient times,"
Miao Shui said. "But 'the phoenix raises five chicks,' namely Azure Phoenix, Swan, Yu Luan, Roc, and Silver Crow... The five phoenix sons lead the northern demon race and interbreed with other great demons, thus forming the Eight Tribes... This Azure Bird Tribe is one of the Eight Tribes! The distinguished guest who came is the little princess of the Azure Bird Tribe, considered a direct descendant of Fallen Phoenix Mountain...
"That foot is indeed extraordinary..."
Fang Qing exclaimed in admiration.
"Hehe... There's no need to be too obsequious. After all, Roc, the direct descendant of the phoenix, was taken in as a guardian deity by the Great Sun Wheel Temple on the Great Snow Mountain..."
Miao Shui Mingfei added, leaving Fang Qing speechless.
This Secret Great Snow Mountain is indeed ruthless, even more vicious than the demon race!
"After this incident, how can our relationship with the demon race remain good?"
He paused for a moment, wanting to confirm Miao Shui's attitude.
"My Great Snow Mountain Master took in the Great Roc King; it's his good fortune... We should be doing the demon race a favor. My Brahma Dharma is vast; wouldn't it be a great merit to guide demons?"
Miao Shui looked at Fang Qing with surprise.
Fang Qing sighed deeply. Living in this Wusheng Temple, he always felt somewhat out of place.
He entered a meditation room and saw Miao Shan accompanying a guest.
She was a beautiful young girl with delicate features, wearing a blue feather headdress. He recognized her—it was the Green Toad Demon General!
Behind Qing Ling stood another person, covered in golden scales and with two horns on his head, like a guard—it was Li Rulong!
"Heh heh...it's you?"
The green toad chuckled upon seeing Fang Qing. "I told you you'd become a monk sooner or later...what's the point of spending so much effort buying the Purple Mansion cultivation technique?" "
So it's Princess Qingling..."
Fang Qing wasn't annoyed. He gave a slight bow and sat down. Miao Shui immediately came to refill his tea.
Seeing this, Li Rulong, who was acting as a guard, felt a slight dimming in his eyes.
When he first saw Fang Qing's Dao Foundation, he knew that this person had probably paid a huge price to break through.
Now, seeing Fang Shui being gently served by two Mingfei, and then looking at himself reduced to being a guard, his heart was filled with indescribable bitterness. Although, being able to become the guard of the little princess of the Qingniao tribe, Fang Qing felt that Li Rulong's status in the demon race had actually risen...