Primordial Era: The Holy Maiden Shiji, a woman of exceptional talent and beauty

"He can't hold on much longer!" Shi Ji roared, her crystal sword gleaming brightly as she prepared to deliver a fatal blow.

Qingyangzi nodded and whispered in response, "Let's all go together and deliver the final blow!"

The two moved like lightning bolts towards the mysterious man. Shi Ji swung her sword at his left arm, while Qing Yangzi struck at his right ribs with a palm. Faced with the sudden attack, the mysterious man appeared flustered, hastily swinging out a palm in an attempt to block both attacks simultaneously.

However, his strength was far less than before, and the power of this palm strike was greatly reduced. Shi Ji and Qing Yangzi's attacks easily broke through the defense. With a muffled "thud," the mysterious man was struck by the combined force of the two, and his body trembled as if struck by lightning.

The mysterious man let out a scream, his entire body flying backward like a kite with a broken string. He tumbled several times in the air before crashing heavily to the ground. A plume of black smoke rose from his body, gradually dissipating into the air.

Shi Ji and Qing Yangzi quickly followed to the spot where the mysterious man had fallen, only to find it deserted, with only a puddle of black smoke remaining on the ground. They knew that the mysterious man had completely vanished from the world.

“We must study these ancient texts in depth as soon as possible.” Mo Yun looked at the ancient texts in his hands with a solemn expression. “This mysterious person obviously also has some understanding of ancient texts. We must seize more power before he does.”

Shi Ji nodded in agreement: "Senior Mo Yun is right. We cannot stand still. This victory was just a fluke. We may not be so lucky next time."

Qingyangzi added, "Furthermore, we must strengthen our own cultivation. Only by improving our strength can we better cope with future challenges."

After discussing it, the three decided to return to the alliance headquarters immediately to report their encounter and discovery to the higher-ups and request more support and resources.

On the way back, Shi Ji suddenly remembered something and asked, "Senior Mo Yun, do those incantations you mentioned earlier have a deeper meaning?"

Mo Yun pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "These incantations are indeed incredibly profound; what I know is only the tip of the iceberg. According to ancient records, these incantations can not only control the power of crystals, but may also hide the secrets to a higher realm."

Upon hearing this, Qingyangzi's eyes flashed with a sharp light: "Then wouldn't it be possible for us to reach an unprecedented level of cultivation through these incantations?"

Mo Yun nodded and then shook his head: "Theoretically, it's possible, but in practice, it's extremely difficult. These incantations require extremely high comprehension and talent to understand, and the slightest mistake could lead to demonic possession."

After hearing this, Shi Ji took a deep breath: "In that case, we must work even harder. Only by mastering greater power can we better protect ourselves and those around us."

Shi Ji nodded, her face resolute: "That's right, no matter how many difficulties and challenges lie ahead, we must forge ahead." Her gaze was firm, as if she could already see their future victory.

Mo Yun and Qing Yangzi also sensed Shi Ji's determination. They smiled at each other, seeing unwavering faith in each other's eyes.

Mo Yun stroked his beard and said in a deep voice, "Alright, let's start with these ancient texts. Every incantation, every line of characters, could be a key to power." He began to peruse the book in his hands, his fingertips lightly gliding over the complex symbols and totems.

Qingyangzi then took out a piece of broken crystal and stared at its irregular facets: "Although this crystal is broken, every corner still contains ancient power. Can we extract purer energy from it?"

Shi Ji stood to the side, holding the once-glowing crystal sword, and said in a low voice, "This sword was the key to our victory, and perhaps it can guide us to find a new source of power."

Suddenly, a faint light emanated from the crystal sword, as if in response to Shi Ji's words. The three of them focused their gazes on the sword, watching the light gradually intensify, a surge of indescribable excitement and anticipation welling up within them.

Mo Yun quickly walked over and stared intently at the light: "This...this is a signal left by our predecessors! We might be able to unlock more secrets about the power of the crystal through this sword!"

Qingyangzi then pulled out an ancient parchment from the books, on which were drawn a series of complex patterns and symbols: "Look, these patterns are remarkably similar to the markings on the sword. Perhaps we can find a way to combine the power of the sword with these ancient characters."

Shi Ji gripped the hilt of his sword, took a deep breath, and then slowly raised the sword. Light gathered at the tip, forming a dazzling sphere. He turned to Mo Yun and Qing Yangzi: "Let's try it together. Let's use our energy to unleash the secrets within this sword."

The three formed a circle, each placing their hands on the hilt of their swords, closing their eyes, and beginning to silently chant ancient incantations. As the incantations were recited, the light from the swords grew brighter and brighter, filling the entire space with a captivating energy.

Their hearts are connected through the sword, as they explore the profound secrets of that ancient power, gradually approaching that mysterious and powerful realm.

As the incantation deepened, Shiji, Moyun, and Qingyangzi felt an unprecedented power flowing through their bodies. The light from the crystal sword illuminated the entire secret chamber, becoming like a small sun, its radiance enough to dispel any darkness.

Suddenly, the door to the secret chamber creaked open, and a young Taoist priest pushed it open and entered. He looked tense, clearly having rushed there. "Master, there's something strange outside. It seems someone is spying on our actions," the young Taoist priest reported urgently.

Shi Ji opened her eyes, her gaze shining brightly: "Who dares to disturb us?" Her voice carried an undeniable authority.

Mo Yun also stopped chanting the incantation and pondered for a moment: "This situation cannot be ignored, and we must deal with it carefully. It could be an accomplice of that mysterious person, or other forces interested in our research."

Qingyangzi quickly stood up, picked up the longsword beside him, and prepared to act: "We can't just sit here and wait to die. I'll go outside and check the situation, and give them a warning if necessary."

Shi Ji nodded in agreement: "Qingyangzi, proceed with caution. Senior Brother Moyun, let's continue to maintain the formation to ensure safety here."

Qingyangzi walked to the door, glanced back at Shiji and Moyun, then stepped out and disappeared into the shadows outside the door.

Mo Yun looked at Shi Ji and sighed: "In recent years, external interference has become more and more frequent. If our research falls into the wrong hands, the consequences will be unimaginable."

Shi Ji gripped her crystal sword tightly, her resolve unwavering: "Whoever dares to interfere with us, I will make them pay the price. Our research is not only for personal cultivation, but also for the balance of the entire world." Outside, Qing Yangzi silently moved through the corridor, his steps light and almost imperceptible. Moonlight cast long shadows on the windows. A rustling sound reached Qing Yangzi's ears; he quietly concealed himself in the shadows, observing his surroundings.

Suddenly, a dark figure moved swiftly and fled to a corner of the courtyard. Without hesitation, Qingyangzi thrust out his long sword like the wind, its cold light flashing as it aimed directly at the fleeing figure.

"Halt! Who are you? Why are you lurking here?" Qingyangzi shouted, his voice carrying an unquestionable command.

The shadowy figure stopped fleeing, turned around, and revealed a face veiled behind a mask. "I...I have no intention of offending anyone. I was simply asked to come and investigate whether this place truly contains the legendary power of crystals, as the rumors suggest."

Qingyangzi narrowed his eyes, staring warily at the other person: "Who exactly is your master? Why are you so interested in what we are researching?" The tip of his sword was still pointed at the man, ready to deal with any unexpected situation at any time.

The masked man hesitated slightly, seemingly considering whether to reveal more details. Finally, he sighed softly, a hint of helplessness in his voice: "I have no intention of being your enemy. My master is the Ice Queen of the North. She heard that this place hides ancient and powerful forces, and she specifically ordered me to investigate."

Qingyangzi's gaze sharpened further: "The Ice Queen? Why didn't she come in person? And why did she send you to do this kind of clandestine spying?"

The masked man shook his head slightly: "The Ice Queen has her own unspeakable difficulties. Her territory is being invaded by the Southern Border, and she cannot leave to travel far. As for me, I am just a loyal guard under her command, acting on orders."

Qingyangzi relaxed his grip on the sword slightly, but his guard was still not completely down: "Now that you've come, you should understand that the power here is not something outsiders can easily touch. Go back and tell your queen that if she truly wants to communicate, she should send an envoy to visit openly and honestly."

The masked man nodded, seemingly quite agreeing with Qingyangzi's suggestion: "I will convey your message. I hope this won't be our last contact." With that, seeing that Qingyangzi didn't object further, he slowly retreated and eventually disappeared into the night.

Qingyangzi returned to the secret chamber and recounted everything he had seen and heard to Shiji and Moyun. Shiji frowned slightly: "The Ice and Snow Queen? This matter should not be underestimated; her power is not to be ignored. If she truly wants to study this power, perhaps we can find some opportunity for cooperation."

Mo Yun also shared his opinion: "However, we must proceed with caution. If this force falls into the hands of someone with ulterior motives, the consequences will be unimaginable. We should observe her movements first before deciding on our next move."

Shi Ji nodded, her gaze resolute: "We will be careful. At the same time, we should also strengthen our own power, just in case. Senior Brother Mo Yun, can we accelerate the research process on the crystal's power?"

Mo Yun pondered for a moment, then nodded in agreement: "That's fine. But we also need to add more safeguards to ensure that nothing goes wrong. I suggest that we set up more defensive formations and send some reliable disciples to the Northern Territory to secretly keep an eye on the Ice Queen's movements."

Qingyangzi immediately responded: "Leave this part of the task to me. We must not allow any potential threats to get close to this place."

After the three finished their discussion, they went their separate ways to begin preparations. Shi Ji continued to delve deeper into the secrets of the Crystal Sword, Mo Yun set up a complex defensive formation, and Qing Yangzi began selecting suitable disciples to prepare for the mission to the Northern Territory.

And so, the three of them each took on their roles, working together to protect the secrets of this ancient power, while also preparing for an even greater challenge that might come. They knew that this was merely the calm before the storm, and the real tempest could strike at any moment.

A few days later, Qingyangzi selected several disciples, all elites of the sect, to go to the Northern Border on a secret reconnaissance mission. On the eve of their departure, Qingyangzi summoned these disciples to a secret room for his final instructions.

"The place you are about to go is full of unknowns and dangers," Qingyangzi said earnestly. "The Northern Territory is far from our territory, and its customs and traditions are very different from ours. You must be careful and never reveal your identities."

A young disciple asked, "Senior brother, how do we determine whether we should contact the Ice Queen's people? How can we ensure we aren't being used by them?"

Qingyangzi gave the disciple an approving look: "Good question. First of all, you must remain highly vigilant. Observe their actions and analyze their intentions. If you have the opportunity, try to find out what their purpose is in being interested in the power of the crystal."

He continued, "If it is confirmed that the Ice Queen's intentions are benevolent and that she genuinely wishes to cooperate with us, then you can appropriately engage in some basic exchanges. But under no circumstances should we divulge our core secrets, especially the specific research methods and applications of crystal power."

Another disciple pressed further, "What should we do if we discover they have ill intentions?"

Qingyangzi's eyes sharpened: "If you detect any threat, you should first consider a safe evacuation and report to us immediately. We will make the necessary preparations to prevent any possible attack."

Qingyangzi gazed at each of them, his tone resolute: "Remember, you are not only going to investigate, but also to serve as a bridge between us and the outside world. Your words and actions will affect the relationship between our sect and the outside world."

Upon hearing this, the disciples became extremely solemn, nodding in agreement to their senior brother's teachings and promising to act with utmost care.

After seeing his disciples off, Qingyangzi returned to Shiji and Moyun and gave a detailed report on the preparations. Shiji patted Qingyangzi on the shoulder after listening: "Well done, Qingyangzi. With a senior brother like you around, we can all feel much more at ease."

Mo Yun looked up from a pile of ancient scrolls, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes: "We really need to prepare for anything. The Ice Queen's movements are unpredictable, and we must plan for the worst."

Shi Ji nodded in agreement, then turned to look at the deep night outside the window: "No matter when the storm comes, we will stay true to our principles and protect this power. Not for fame or fortune, but only to protect this land and all living beings."

The three reunited to continue their research and preparations. The outside world might be ever-changing, but within this ancient, secret chamber, their resolve was as deep and unwavering as an ancient well.

Mo Yun spoke slowly, a hint of worry in his voice: "Although we have made many preparations, I still feel that the road ahead is fraught with unforeseen risks. We should continue to improve our individual strength and overall combat power."

Shi Ji nodded, her eyes flashing with determination: "That's right, we cannot rely solely on the power of the ancient scrolls and crystals. True power comes from our own cultivation and wisdom. We should explore and cultivate more deeply." (End of Chapter)