Shengui Changsheng: Start from Zhenwuwei and add some points to cultivate immortality

"Your sword domain is now newly formed, and your foundation is solid, but your cultivation level is still a weakness. At the eighth level of Qi Refining, to bear such swordsmanship is like a child wielding a giant hammer." Shen Qingshan turned around, his gaze like lightning. "From today onwards, you will be in seclusion on this peak. You may not descend the mountain until you reach the Foundation Establishment stage."

As he spoke, he flicked his finger, and three pills, each the size of a longan and radiating a rich spiritual light and different Daoist charms, floated in front of Fu Shaoping. One was lush and vibrant green, full of life; another was ethereal and misty, as if surrounded by flowing clouds; and the third was a deep, dark red, hinting at the cycle of reincarnation.

"This is the 'Three-Turn Qi Condensation Pill.' With your current foundation, taking this pill will help you quickly condense your sword essence, solidify your Dao foundation, and directly advance towards Foundation Establishment. You will have to figure out how to take it yourself."

Fu Shaoping's heart trembled. The Three-Turn Qi Condensation Pill was a rare treasure even in the Foundation Establishment stage, let alone three that were specially suited to his Falling Clouds Sword Dao! He solemnly accepted them: "Thank you, Master!"

Shen Qingshan nodded slightly: "Only after you have established your foundation can you truly begin cultivating that ancient inheritance. At that time, you will be considered to have truly stepped into the gate of the Falling Clouds Sword Dao." As soon as he finished speaking, Qingshan moved slightly and disappeared into the depths of the clouds.

Holding the three precious pills in his hands, Fu Shaoping felt a surge of warmth as he sensed the Daoist essence within them perfectly harmonizing with his own sword intent. His master, though seemingly cold and aloof, was actually very considerate of him.

Without further hesitation, he found a flat rock on the summit, sat down cross-legged, and after adjusting his condition to its best, first swallowed the emerald green pill that contained the vitality of "morning glow".

The elixir entered his stomach and instantly transformed into a vast and pure spiritual energy, yet it was incredibly gentle, blending seamlessly with the chaotic sword essence within his body. He circulated the complete Ancient Sunset Sword Technique, guiding this power to circulate throughout his body, continuously refining and compressing the sword essence in his dantian.

The spiritual energy at the summit of Luoxia Peak was already abundant, and with the added power of the elixir, Fu Shaoping's cultivation began to increase at a visible rate. The chaotic sword essence in his dantian became increasingly solid, flowing like liquid rosy light.

A month later, the first pill was refined, and his cultivation level had reached the peak of the eighth level of Qi Refining.

He then took the second ethereal "Flowing Cloud" pill, whose medicinal power focused on widening his meridians and tempering his divine sense, making the sword energy flow more smoothly and freely, and his control over the sword domain more precise.

Two months later, his cultivation level rose to the ninth level of Qi Refining!

Finally, he swallowed the dark red "Setting Sun" pill. This pill was extremely potent, containing the true meaning of the cycle of annihilation and rebirth. As the medicinal power dissipated, it was as if a setting sun had ignited within his body, scorching his sword essence and flesh, bringing extreme pain. But after the pain came a rebirth and purity akin to nirvana!
Fu Shaoping focused his mind and guided this power to break through the insurmountable barrier between Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment!
"Boom!"

It was as if a deafening roar, as if the heavens and earth were splitting apart, exploded within his body! The barrier of the Qi Refining stage shattered like a paper dam before the power of the complete sword dao inheritance and the three-turn precious pill!
More spiritual energy from heaven and earth surged into his body, being refined into pure chaotic sword essence. His Qi Sea expanded wildly once again, his divine sense surged, and his life level underwent a qualitative leap!

An unprecedentedly powerful feeling surged through his body, as if he had broken free from some kind of restraint, and could perceive the rules and patterns of heaven and earth more clearly. The chaotic sword domain around him involuntarily expanded, covering an area of ​​several hundred feet. Within the sword domain, rosy light flowed, clouds and mist arose, and the setting sun appeared and disappeared, as if forming a small world of its own!

Foundation building stage complete!
Moreover, this is not an ordinary Foundation Establishment; it is an unparalleled Dao Foundation based on the ancient Sunset Sword Dao, fused with three primordial sword seeds, and condensed with chaotic sword essence! Its foundation is so solid and its true essence so pure that it far surpasses those of the same level, and can even be compared with mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators!
Fu Shaoping opened his eyes, a fleeting, chaotic light flashing within them. His aura was harmonious and restrained, yet it gave off an unfathomable feeling.

He stood up, feeling the chaotic sword energy surging within him like a river, yet also as responsive as his own limbs, and a surge of pride welled up within him. Now, he truly had the foundation to stand firm in this world of cultivation, and the qualifications to pursue the Great Dao.

He looked down at the sea of ​​clouds, and the entire mountain range of the sect was laid out before him.

Foundation Building is just a new starting point. The infinite mysteries of the Sunset Sword Dao await his exploration and conquest.

His journey will not end here. His sword will point to higher and farther skies.

Having successfully completed the Foundation Establishment, the Chaos Sword Essence flowed ceaselessly within his body, surging like rosy clouds, churning like a sea of ​​clouds, and carrying a hint of the somber, cyclical nature of the setting sun. Standing atop Sunset Peak, Fu Shaoping felt the leap in his life level and the transformation of his power essence, his mind clear and serene.

He did not immediately emerge from seclusion, but continued to consolidate his realm while simultaneously beginning to truly comprehend the vast and boundless ancient Sunset Sword Dao inheritance in his mind.

Before he established his foundation, although he received the inheritance, his cultivation level limited him, and many of its essences were like flowers seen through a fog—he could only grasp their form, not their spirit. Now that his foundation was established and his divine sense had surged, he had a completely different feeling when he looked at the inheritance again.

"The rising sun" is no longer just the starting stance of a sword move, but contains the supreme truth of "origin," "hope," and "causal connection." A single sword strike can ignite the first ray of life in the world and determine the cause and effect of an opponent's defeat.

"The ever-changing clouds" are not merely variations and entanglements, but rather a manifestation of "the trajectory of fate" and "the impermanence of life." The flowing swordplay can disrupt the opponent's fortune, and a glimpse of truth can be seen amidst the myriad changes.

The phrase "the setting sun like blood" is even more profound. It represents "the end," "reincarnation," and "rebirth." It is not simply destruction, but rather the seed of new life being nurtured within the ultimate stillness; it is the great courage and wisdom to live in the face of death.

These three elements constitute a complete cycle of "Tao," which is endlessly regenerating.

Fu Shaoping was immersed in the profound Dao realm, constantly absorbing the nourishment of the inheritance to perfect his Chaos Sword Domain. His sword domain was no longer merely a rudimentary form, but began to truly possess the ability to influence reality and evolve the rules. The rosy light within the domain could nourish him, the flowing clouds could confuse his senses, and the setting sun could erode his vitality and reverse offense and defense.

On this day, sensing something, he slowly opened his eyes. His Foundation Establishment stage cultivation had become completely stable, and his comprehension of the ancient sword path had reached the limit of his current cultivation.

He stood up, his aura perfectly balanced and restrained, yet seemingly integrated with the entire Sunset Peak. It was time to emerge from seclusion.

The moment he stepped out of the secluded rocky area, a figure in a green robe appeared silently not far away, as if he had been waiting for a long time. It was Shen Qingshan.

Shen Qingshan's gaze lingered on Fu Shaoping for a moment, then he nodded slightly: "Solid foundation, profound sword intent, not bad."

He could sense that his disciple's strength after reaching the Foundation Establishment stage far surpassed that of ordinary early Foundation Establishment cultivators, even giving him the illusion of facing a mid- or late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator. The chaotic sword energy itself seemed unfathomably profound to him.

"Thank you for protecting me, Master." Fu Shaoping bowed respectfully.

"Now that you've reached the Foundation Establishment stage, you must shoulder greater responsibilities," Shen Qingshan said calmly. "The sect has ordered you to go to the 'Frozen Plains' in the Northern Territory to assist in guarding the 'Mysterious Ice Fortress.'" "Mysterious Ice Fortress?" Fu Shaoping's gaze sharpened. He had seen records in the sect's ancient texts that the Frozen Plains in the Northern Territory had a harsh environment and served as the front line against the northern barbarians and ice-type demonic beasts. The Mysterious Ice Fortress was of paramount importance, with sect elders and elite disciples stationed there year-round, and frequent battles.

“In the past six months, the Frozen Plains have been experiencing frequent disturbances, with the scale of the monster tides far exceeding that of the past, and there are even signs of suspected corruption by demonic energy. The pressure on the fortress has increased dramatically.” Shen Qingshan explained, “Sending you there is firstly for training, and secondly… your Sunset Sword Intent, especially the ‘Setting Sun’ technique, may have a restraining effect on the cold demonic energy.”

Fu Shaoping understood; this was the sect's recognition of his strength, and also a new test. Without any hesitation, he replied, "Disciple obeys."

With a flick of his sleeve, Shen Qingshan sent an ice-blue token and a map made of animal hide flying toward Fu Shaoping.

"This is the order and a detailed map of the Northern Territory. Elder Han of Xuanbing Peak will be stationed at Xuanbing Fortress. You will take this order and obey his orders." Shen Qingshan paused, looking at Fu Shaoping, his tone becoming more serious. "The situation in the Northern Territory is complex. Not only are there demonic beasts and barbarians, but there may also be demonic forces such as the Netherworld Sect and the Black Fiend Sect operating in the shadows. Be careful in everything you do. If things become unbearable, prioritize your own safety."

"Disciple understands." Fu Shaoping could feel the concern in his master's words and solemnly accepted the token and map.

"Go." Shen Qingshan waved his hand, and his figure slowly disappeared.

Fu Shaoping gripped the cold token, glanced at Luoxia Peak where he had lived for so long, and without lingering, transformed into a chaotic golden rainbow, soaring into the sky and speeding northward! His speed was several times faster than when he was in the Qi Refining stage!
After reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, he was able to fly for extended periods of time.

As they traveled north, the climate gradually turned colder, and the mountains and lands were covered in snow. Several days later, an endless, frigid ice field appeared on the horizon.

Following the map, Fu Shaoping quickly found the majestic fortress standing on the edge of the ice field, crouching like a giant beast—the Xuanbing Fortress. The fortress walls were tens of feet high, constructed from millennia-old Xuanbing mixed with special metals, with runes flowing across their surface, radiating powerful spiritual energy fluctuations and a bone-chilling cold.

Even before approaching, a chilling aura could be felt. On the city walls, patrolling disciples, gleaming in armor, stood vigilant. Outside the fortress, traces of battle were faintly visible: frozen blood and shattered fragments of magical artifacts silently testified to the cruelty of this place.

Fu Shaoping activated his escape technique and landed in front of the fortress's massive metal gate, which was engraved with array formations. The guards immediately stepped forward to question him.

After the order was presented, the guarding disciple verified it and his expression immediately became respectful: "So it's Uncle-Master Fu from Luoxia Peak! Elder Han gave the order long ago, please come with me."

Led by the guarding disciples, Fu Shaoping entered the fortress. Contrary to his expectations, the fortress wasn't entirely a frozen wasteland; instead, it was maintained at a suitable temperature by array formations. The streets were crisscrossed, and the houses were neatly arranged, resembling a small town. However, the tense atmosphere in the air and the menacing aura emanating from the disciples clearly indicated its connection to the front lines.

Soon, Fu Shaoping was led to a grand hall in the center of the fortress. Inside, an old man dressed in a white fur robe, with a cold and stern face and an aura like that of ancient ice, stood with his hands behind his back, looking at the huge map of the ice plains hanging on the wall. This was Elder Han of Xuanbing Peak, a mid-stage Core Formation expert who was in charge of this place.

"Disciple Fu Shaoping has come to report for duty by order of the sect." Fu Shaoping stepped forward and bowed.

Elder Han turned around, his icy gaze falling on Fu Shaoping like two icicles, scrutinizing him. When he sensed Fu Shaoping's unfathomable early Foundation Establishment sword intent, especially the peculiar sword intent that intertwined warmth and desolation, a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes.

“Junior Brother Shen has indeed taken on a good disciple.” Elder Han’s voice was as cold as ice, devoid of any emotion. “I already know your purpose. The fortress is currently in dire need of manpower, so you will be assigned to the ‘Patrol Team’ and will set out with the team tomorrow to clear out the demonic beasts within a hundred miles of the fortress and gather intelligence.”

"Yes!" Fu Shaoping replied.

"You're probably familiar with the fortress rules. Merit points can be exchanged for the resources you need. Those who desert in the face of battle or disobey orders will be dealt with according to military law." Elder Han said succinctly. "Go down, someone will show you around and arrange your accommodations."

"The disciple retire."

Fu Shaoping left the main hall and, under the arrangement of a disciple, received his identity token and a set of standard robes to keep warm. He then moved into a simple stone house.

He didn't rest, but instead walked out of the stone house and strolled slowly through the fortress, familiarizing himself with everything. He could sense that this Xuanbing Fortress was like a drawn sword, lying between the ice plains and human territory, always ready to drink blood.

And his sword was already itching for a fight.

The next morning, before dawn, the wind was biting cold.

Fu Shaoping and the other nine members of the patrol team gathered in the fortress square. The captain was a mid-Foundation Establishment disciple of Xuanbing Peak named Yan Feng, with a cold and hard expression, like a rock on an ice field. Most of the team members were at the early Foundation Establishment stage, each with a powerful aura and sharp eyes, clearly veterans of many battles.

Yan Feng's gaze swept over the crowd, lingering briefly on Fu Shaoping, the newcomer who was considered a "connected person" (he was someone who was personally sent by Shen Qingshan, so in their eyes he was a connected person), with a hint of scrutiny and indifference.

"Let's go!" Without any further words, Yan Feng gave the order, and the ten-man team shot out of the fortress gate like an arrow and disappeared into the vast snowstorm.

The real northern trials have begun. Fu Shaoping could feel the Flowing Fire Sword in his arms humming slightly in the wind and snow, a trembling sound yearning for battle.

The moment they stepped out of the fortress, a biting wind, like countless ice blades, whipped at them, carrying snowflakes that crackled against their protective aura. Vision was severely impaired, and their divine sense was suppressed in this extreme cold, only able to extend to about a hundred feet.

Yan Feng was clearly experienced. He made a hand gesture, and the team immediately changed formation to a loose arrow shape, maintaining a distance that allowed them to communicate with each other without hindering their individual performance. They moved forward silently and quickly through the knee-deep snow.

Fu Shaoping, positioned in the middle of the group, silently circulated his Chaos Sword Essence. A warm yet resilient warmth rose from his dantian, flowing throughout his body and keeping out the biting cold. He carefully observed Yan Feng and the other veteran team members' movements, learning techniques for orienting themselves in the snowfield, concealing their presence, and identifying the tracks of demonic beasts through the snow.

After traveling for about an hour, apart from a few scattered first-tier "snow wolves" that were easily dealt with, they did not encounter any large herds of beasts. (End of Chapter)