Shangyuque

Chapter 221 The Elephant Spreads His Teachings!

Wang Yulou didn't care what Lu Feng or even the Immortal Venerable Baoqiao behind him thought.

The distinction between the reformists and conservatives within the Immortal Alliance is extremely vague, and understanding it in terms of the six states is even further removed from the essence of the Immortal Alliance.

The real Water Venerable Faction, the Five Dragons Faction, the remnants of the Mountain Man Immortal Kingdom, the 'Azure Serpent' gang, and the core Immortal Venerables within these sub-factions are the cornerstones of the Immortal Alliance.

Ultimately, the reform and change of direction received the support of 118 Immortal Venerables, and Wang Yulou took on the heavy responsibility of reform and change of direction, which was an immense pressure.

However, following a bottom-up logic, when Wang Yulou bears a great deal of responsibility, his power will also be greater.

The saying "With great power comes great responsibility" is a narrative constructed by true leaders to deceive the lower classes. Wang Yulou's path of self-cultivation follows the path of "the greater the responsibility, the greater the power, and the broader the future."

From an absolutely objective standpoint, in this particular era, it would be difficult to find a faster path than the one taken by Wang Yulou.

Walking on this path, one inevitably faces various temptations, both real and false. These beautiful illusions are offered to Wang Yulou by different people, but he often refuses them and only accepts them very occasionally.

Shenguang could endure, Mangxiang could endure, Tianshe could endure, even Shuizun could endure, so Wang Yulou could naturally endure as well.

Patience is not only about enduring the pressure others put on Wang Yulou, but also about resisting the temptations of those seemingly beautiful illusions.

Wang Yulou's ambition cannot be bought off with a little benefit. Even if he agrees to Xizhu's entreaties, the real aim behind it is to promote the reform in the Mingcheng Taoist Temple on Tiantai Mountain.
-
Outside the Nine Aperture Valley, in a sacred place, three flying magical treasures hovered in mid-air in the shape of three flowers gathering at the top.

Within the spiritual land lies a treasure-refining training ground of the Nine Aperture Valley.

Thirteen extremely rare Grade-5 spiritual items were gathered together by the grand formation, achieving a comprehensive boost to all different types of treasure refining needs.

There are two such treasure-refining training grounds in Nine Aperture Valley, and the treasure-refining training ground in Nine Aperture Immortal Valley is a rare place in the Immortal Alliance for refining immortal artifacts.

The Dao of Refining is a great path. Wang Yulou relied on his extraordinary talent in the Dao of Refining to gain significant assistance in the stages of Qi Induction, Qi Refining, and the initial Foundation Establishment.

However, the rules of the cultivation world in this special era dictated that from the time he gained a foothold on the front lines of the two sects until he could easily refine high-grade magic treasures, he could no longer gain any relative competitive advantage through cultivation.

Those master craftsmen who had already boarded the train welded shut the path for later cultivators to advance in their cultivation—they were not allowed to board!
Of course, Wang Yulou wasn't in a hurry to get on the bus.

Ultimately, any auxiliary techniques are just that—auxiliary techniques. The path he's currently cultivating is stable, fast, and righteous enough that no auxiliary technique can help him speed things up further.

In the Spirit Gathering Platform of the Treasure Refining Arena, Qi Taiyu, who had traveled 30,000 li south, finally met Wang Yuque, the famous Vice Leader of the Immortal Alliance.

"Jade Palace Alliance Leader, your name is legendary in our holy land. You became the leader of a top-tier force like the Immortal Alliance with only Foundation Establishment cultivation."

What's that saying again? – "All the heroes of the past have passed away; the truly remarkable figures are now confined to the imperial palace."

Ki Tae-wook, acting like Old Li, spouted nonsensical nonsense.

Wang Yulou was too lazy to argue with him. He took out several different sixth-grade spiritual materials from his storage bracelet, including bone materials, wood materials, and special spiritual materials that were both bone and wood.

“Fellow Daoist Qi Taiyu, you are a master of bone and wood refining, but my refining and advancement this time is too urgent, so I must first test your level.”

Qi Taiyu didn't speak, but first checked the different spiritual materials provided by Wang Yulou before speaking.

"Yes, Jade Palace Alliance Leader, my cultivation path is far from masterful, and there are still many areas that need improvement."

However, refining ordinary magical artifacts and upgrading spiritual weapons is not a problem.

Clearly, this eccentric monk from the mountains was very confident.

In fact, Xi Zhu is a master of alchemy. He personally recommended him to Wang Yulou, and he was even specially invited from the holy land of the demon monk. How could he be unreliable?
The reason for not seeking help from within the Immortal Alliance is that the spread of Wang Xianmao's story about his magical treasure carrying the Dao to the Purple Mansion and achieving Dao needs to be controlled.

Even with Wang Yulou's status, it wouldn't be a big problem if this matter got out, since even the Mangxiang Immortal Venerable had tacitly approved of Wang Yulou's plan.

Wang Yulou's master had already agreed, so the other immortals who could object naturally wouldn't object, and those who couldn't object wouldn't be able to object anyway.

However, controlling information and influence is meaningful in itself, at least it can demonstrate Wang Yulou's respect for the laws and order of the Immortal Alliance.

As long as he doesn't turn someone like Wang Xianmao, who has made no worthwhile contribution to the Immortal Alliance, into a legitimate Purple Mansion supported by the Immortal Alliance, it's not a big deal.

Precision—that was Wang Yulou's biggest takeaway from watching Qi Taiyu refine magical artifacts.

It should be noted that Wang Yulou's current process of refining spiritual weapons is smooth and effortless.

Because of his high level of cultivation, Wang Yulou was able to completely abandon all restrictions and constraints when refining spiritual artifacts, and fully unleash his cultivation strength.

Qi Taiyu's approach to refining magical artifacts is the complete opposite of Wang Yulou's.

After Wang Yulou's skill in refining spiritual weapons improved, he pursued a more harmonious and expressive style, while Qi Taiyu pursued extreme control.

Under Qi Taiyu's control, the furnace fire behaved like a precise carving knife, without a single unnecessary or useless movement; every step was terrifyingly accurate.

Watching Qi Taiyu refine the magic weapon and test his skills, Wang Yulou's eyes lit up with surprise.

That scoundrel Xi Zhu is really shrewd; he probably saw through Wang Yulou's true needs and specifically recommended a Daoist master who met them for him.

Qi Taiyu follows a methodical and precise control style of alchemy, making him undoubtedly the most suitable alchemy master to help Wang Yulou advance the Five Spirits Flourishing Pivot.

The key is to be stable; one failure is unacceptable—Wang Xianmao has run out of backbone.

The fact that the Jade Palace Alliance Leader's headquarters stopped at the Treasure Refining Arena in Nine Aperture Valley was being watched.

Refining magical artifacts is very difficult; even a master of alchemy cannot shorten the time required to refine them.

Verifying Qi Taiyu's cultivation level was a necessary step, so Wang Yulou couldn't act rashly.

Therefore, on the fourth day after Qi Taiyu's arrival, Lu Feng finally mustered the courage to test the waters.

It can only be said that it's not just Wang Yulou who's having a hard time; the other Purple Mansions each have their own difficulties.

Within the Immortal Alliance and various major sects, those from the Purple Mansion receive certain privileges, but they are still required to obey the orders of the Immortal Venerables.

"Fellow Daoist Yuque, is the treasure refining process going smoothly? The Immortal Venerable has said that as long as you have any needs, all the refining masters in Nine Aperture Valley are at your disposal."

This was a free opportunity that many people would kill for, but Lu Feng's attitude was almost obsequious.

This thing is similar to love; those who don't lack love never lack it, while those who lack love will never be satisfied.

Wang Yulou had no shortage of resources, so he always kept his distance from the goodwill of the Immortal of the Treasure Aperture.

“Fellow Daoist Lu Feng, I appreciate the Immortal Venerable’s kindness, you may return now.”

One cannot hit a smiling face, so Wang Yulou's attitude could only be good.

"Haha, I know you're busy. Here, this is my token. If you need anything, just let me know."

Lu Feng had already made up his mind that as long as he got rid of Wang Yulou, he wouldn't have to put up with the pressure. So, he might as well just endure it and play the coward!

After all, he is the leader of the Immortal Alliance, so it's only right that we treat him well.

Wang Yulou reluctantly accepted the token from Lufeng, feeling helpless.

These days, if he makes even the slightest move, all eyes will turn to him, and he'll be surrounded by goodwill, kindness, and good intentions, yet he still has to navigate these situations.

For the Immortal Venerable Baoqiao, having his servants serve Wang Yulou was a simple matter of a word.

He gathered some connections and gradually made some contact with Wang Yulou.

If Wang Yulou truly has great fortune in the future, the good karma he has cultivated now will bring him almost limitless rewards in some sense—the path may be winding, subtle, and the possibilities are debatable, but it's worth a try, isn't it?
Anyway, it's just a cow or a horse below.

"Fellow Daoist Yuque, the spiritual artifacts you prepared for the meritorious cultivators of the Immortal Alliance are all here."

The weapon refiners in the valley, having heard of your kindness towards the meritorious cultivators of the Immortal Alliance, have been working day and night to refine magical artifacts. This is all out of their deep respect for you.

Fifty top-grade spiritual artifacts, something that many cultivators could not achieve even in a hundred lifetimes, were described as 'revered' by Lu Feng.

"Yes, Fellow Daoist Lu Feng, thank you for your hard work, and thank you to all the weapon refiners. I will definitely use these spiritual weapons as rewards for meritorious cultivators of the Immortal Alliance."

As an important member of the Immortal Alliance, I will always remember the help you, Nine Aperture Valley, have given me this time.

We're all on the same side, so there's no need to hold back when we say things.

Reform and change of direction are inevitable trends, and your Nine Aperture Valley should also do so as soon as possible.

Firstly, the number of people in the sects should be reduced. If it cannot be reduced quickly, at least it should be ensured that it does not increase at this point in time.

Especially avoid doing things that are obviously reduced but actually increased, so as not to be misunderstood.

Another option is to select first and then push.

Fellow Daoist Lufeng, the principle of selecting first and then promoting is the core of the reform and transformation personally decided by the Water Venerable and widely recognized by the Assembly of Immortals.

Since I happen to be here and will be staying for several days, why don't we hold a selection process for the outer disciples of Nine Aperture Valley together?

Human hearts are reciprocal. If Wang Yulou were to keep his distance from the Immortal Venerable Baoqiao and the Nine Aperture Valley so eagerly flirting with each other, he would be offending them.

Thus, thanks to Lu Feng's saturated efforts to feign ignorance and seek free benefits, the Immortal Venerable Baoqiao's scheme was indeed partially realized.

Ultimately, it all comes down to strength. On one hand, Wang Yulou needed the Nine Aperture Valley's treasure-refining dojo, and on the other hand, the Treasure Aperture Immortal Venerable was strong enough. That's why Wang Yulou compromised and gave him face.

When Wang Yulou relented, Lu Feng's eyes lit up.
"Very well! Lu Feng will obey the Alliance Leader's decree!"

Looking at the sensible Lu Feng, Wang Yulou felt only boredom.

If one were to open their Purple Mansion in the future and step down from their position as Vice Leader of the Immortal Alliance, how would these people view them?

The respect they feel now will turn into hatred when Wang Yulou's status as a prodigy and his momentum can no longer be maintained!

This is a marathon with its finish line in the far distance, and Wang Yulou cannot stop.

Only forward, forward, and forward again!
-
The Nine Aperture Valley was bustling with reforms, and Bifang, the ruler of the Immortal Kingdom, was also busy.

Unlike Wang Yulou, Bi Fang may be facing even greater pressure.

Wang Yulou only needs to manage the reforms and changes within the Immortal Alliance, while also ensuring he can navigate his own future path.

At best, Bi Fang's world is confined to the Immortal Alliance, while his opponents are scattered throughout every corner of the world.

Bi Fang, a renowned food god in the world who made eating powerful cultivators a daily part of his cultivation, never lacked enemies.

Considering its status as the longest-lived immortal in the entire universe, every single one of its opponents who could survive under its enormous maw and fight against it for a long time was terrifyingly strong.

For example, Jia Dongwei, the seemingly cowardly King of Jialing, is actually capable of rallying a group of people to challenge Bi Fang whenever conditions permit—of course, there are objective costs and risks involved.

As for Jia Dongwei, among Bi Fang's competitors, he can only be described as someone who stands on the sidelines.

With such rivals around, how could Bifang dare to be careless?
I wouldn't dare!

Within Bifang's blessed cave, a giant ape, several dozen feet tall, clad in ancient black magical armor and wearing a black hood, was kneeling before Bifang's lair.

"Your Majesty, apart from our Immortal Kingdom, the situation within the other top powers is still stable."

Based on our past experience with the arrival of chaotic times, no single force currently exhibits any of the relevant characteristics.

I predict that the Age of Chaos will not officially begin for at least three to eight hundred years.

The giant ape kneeling before Bifang's nest is the well-known Ghost Face Immortal Venerable of the Great World. Even among Golden Core Immortal Venerables, Ghost Face Immortal Venerable is one of the better ones, belonging to a level similar to that of Golden Valley Garden God Venerable.

Otherwise, Jingu Garden wouldn't be calling it by its former name, "Smiling Ghost."

In fact, this also reveals Shui Zun's ambition and strength.

The strength and influence of different immortal venerables vary.

Take Shenguang as an example. As the last Golden Core cultivator in the Great Heaven and Earth, he achieved enlightenment too quickly and skillfully, and his foundation was too special. He didn't even have a single Purple Mansion under his command.

Mang Xiang, the second to last Golden Core Immortal Venerable in the Great Heaven and Earth, was different. Before he attained enlightenment, he already had three Purple Mansions in one lineage, and there was also Li Haikuo, whom he supported to rise to the top.

Of course, he personally killed Xuanzhuan and Danri when he attained enlightenment, which is why Wang Yulou had the opportunity to jump from the front lines of the two sects to the center of the grand stage of the world.

Well, Mang Xiang was ruthless to the point of being terrifying, but the deaths of Xuan Zhuan and Dan Ri seemed to be a good thing for Wang Yulou.
For Golden Core Immortals like the Frog King, they have powerful subordinates like the Melon True Man, who is at the peak of the Purple Mansion realm, to run errands for them.

Moving upwards, step by step, one reaches Taihe Water Venerable. Water Venerable may not seem to have a single Purple Mansion under his command, but in fact, he has at least one Golden Core, and he is the Golden Valley Garden God Venerable, whose strength is not far from that of the Smiling Ghost under Bifang's sect.

This is one aspect of the difference between Golden Core Immortal Venerables: those with weak power are not necessarily weak in strength—Qingrui, but those with weak strength are definitely weak in power—Shenguang.

Taihe Shuizun, who concealed his true power, even deceived an existence like Bifang. Otherwise, it would be impossible to explain why Xiaomian Gui, also known as Guimian Xianzun, went to Jin Gu Yuan to discuss and scheme against Taihe Shuizun.

After reporting his observations of the world, the Ghost-Faced Immortal Venerable knelt quietly before Bifang's lair, awaiting Bifang's instructions.

However, the top experts in the Great World are too terrifying. Even Bi Fang needs to think for a long time before he can make a decision that at least ensures he won't suffer a loss.

After a long while, the Celestial King's voice finally came from inside the nest.

"Jingu Garden and Taihe Water suddenly jumped out, pretending to put aside their past grievances and bet on the next era together, which probably fooled a lot of people."

Taihe Shui, that bastard, is quite shrewd. By aligning himself with his enemy, Jinguyuan, for mutual benefit, he can lure the other fools in the Immortal Alliance into betting on the next era with him.

The smiling ghost didn't quite understand Bi Fang's words and asked with some confusion.

"Your Majesty, are you saying that Taihe Water and Jingu Garden are pretending to have put aside their past grievances?"

Bi Fang explained, his voice tinged with sarcasm.

"Yes, they are master and apprentice, and Jinglan from Huzhou was probably also trained by Taihe Shui."

He endured three chaotic eras without going all out, but this time he suddenly started acting with Jin Guyuan, and he handled the situation quite skillfully.

I think if things get chaotic again, Taihe Water will probably take serious action.

Ghost-Faced Immortal Venerable had cultivated for nearly 30,000 years and was a senior Golden Core Immortal Venerable who had survived four chaotic eras. Even he was shocked by the news about Bi Fang and gasped in astonishment.

That bitch Taihe Shui is really good at hiding things!

"Then you've made it clear to my subordinates, I understand completely. Your Majesty, please give your orders. If there's any more chaos this time, we'll kill Taihe Shui first!"

They hid from each other, tested each other, acted together, and schemed against each other.

There's no warmth involved. Bifang hasn't found the path to supremacy yet, so it can't substantially advance to the next level and break through to a new power level above the Golden Core power level.

But this doesn't prevent it from becoming the most powerful. It doesn't have to become some kind of 'Immortal Venerable,' 'Immortal King,' 'God Venerable,' or 'God King' to suppress the Golden Core cultivators and make them play the 'Symphony of Land Conquest.'

Even if you can't rise to the next level, you can still be supreme; it's just a matter of eating and killing more, and killing everyone who should be killed.

As long as Bifang kills all those who get close to him, how can he not be the supreme ruler?

The bag is the only one that matters.

"No rush, urge Mangxiang on, he should make a move soon. The Taihe Water Reform is turning around, just what I wanted!"

After playing a series of loud, rhythmic claps, the Ghost-Faced Immortal Venerable obediently went to carry out his duties, while Bifang continued to hone his cultivation within the blessed land.

If becoming a Celestial King means having to do everything yourself, what's the point of being a Celestial King?
Inside the Immortal King's Palace in the vast world, Mu Chunze, the newly appointed prime minister of the Immortal Kingdom, was receiving an old acquaintance.

"Qiu Sheng, how come you look younger and younger than ever after all these years?"

Noticing that Mu Chunze had no intention of sharing his own experiences, Anthony Wong naturally understood the situation.

He presented the gift obsequiously, then knelt before the prime minister's throne and said...

"Master Chunze, it's me."

The Deer Demon King, who was quietly cultivating in his esteemed position, spoke up to offer a reminder.

"I am Ruilu. Calling me Ruilu, Mu Chunze and such is a long time ago."

"Of course, we're still friends, Qiusheng. Relax, don't be nervous."

Anthony Wong wiped the coldness from his forehead and chuckled dryly.

How could I not be nervous? Huang Family Treasure Shop used to sell a lot of Ruilu's various materials.
"Prime Minister, you may not know this, but after resigning from the position of sect leader, the pressure has been much less, and coincidentally, I have always loved business since I was a child."

So, I felt quite comfortable working at Baibaofang, and when I was in a good mood, I probably looked younger.

However, compared to your longevity, Prime Minister, Qiu Sheng is naturally far inferior.

Rui Lu stared intently at Lao Huang with his ruby-like eyes, and Mu Chunze recalled some things from a long, long time ago.

The measure of life is felt differently by different beings. The more than fifty years of life stolen from Mu Chunze changed his personality.

Yes, anyone would find it unbearable to be placed on a slaughterhouse for over fifty years.

Mu Chunze hasn't gone mad yet, but he's already incredibly skilled in Taoism.

"Yes, it's not easy being the leader of the Red Lantern Sect, it's not easy being the leader anywhere."

Well, that's why I summoned you here. The Immortal Alliance and the Immortal Kingdom need to increase their exchanges, and I intend for your Hundred Treasures Pavilion to take on this responsibility.

The Immortal Alliance is undergoing reforms and internal turmoil, and cultivators are all increasing their purchasing efforts. This is a good opportunity. Is your Hundred Treasures Pavilion willing to take on this task?

Previously, there were other forces involved in the interactions between the Immortal Alliance and the Immortal Kingdom, but it was Shunmu who orchestrated it. Mu Chunze hated Shunmu intensely, so how could he possibly give Shunmu any face?

As long as Baibaofang doesn't fail, it can serve the Immortal Kingdom just as well as any other middleman. Old Mu has the right to make this decision.

"We, the Huang family, will never forget the Prime Minister's support!"

As Huang Qiusheng was speaking, he wanted to give some more, but Ruilu refused.

"I have already opened my Purple Mansion, and I have no regrets in this life. It is my honor to be able to do some insignificant work for the Immortal King Bifang."

Giving your Huang Family Treasure House this opportunity is purely from the perspective of mutual benefit for both the Immortal Alliance and the Immortal Kingdom.

"Alright, go ahead. Don't send me anything else; it's all what I should do."
-
After leaving the capital of the Immortal Kingdom, Anthony Wong traveled 40,000 li southeast without daring to stop for even a moment.

Accompanied by the Immortal Kingdom's Purple Mansion, Old Huang crossed the Western Sea and greeted the various demon kings of the Western Sea before returning to the Western Sea Immortal City territory of the Immortal Alliance.

Wang Yuque has been away from the Western Sea for many years and has never returned, but his influence in the Western Sea has never diminished. Just like the truth he realized in the Dripping Water Cave amidst the fog of war, as long as he continues to move forward or his position is high enough, his former subordinates will always remain loyal.

For Wang Yulou's subordinates who remained in Xihai, although Wang Yulou himself had left, his authority in Xihai was growing stronger day by day.

Wang Yuque served as a special meritorious steward of the Red Lantern Guard on both front lines, demonstrating loyalty!
The Immortal Venerable Mangxiang has finally attained enlightenment. Wang Yuque is now the number one disciple of the Immortal Venerable Mangxiang, and is loyal!

Wang Yuque has been appointed as the vice leader of the Immortal Alliance?
First, you have to bang your fists towards the direction of the Azure Plains, then get up and shout "Loyalty!"
Wang Yuque was personally led to the Immortal Platform by Taihe Shuizun. It is important to note that the portrait of Yuque Zhenren must be carried by spiritual silkworm silk, and ordinary rogue cultivators are not allowed to buy it!
Today, there are three most prosperous places in the West Sea.

Firstly, the West Sea First Auction House. Wang Yuque has ripped off many unlucky people who are crying out in despair, but countless people have successfully established themselves in the West Sea by relying on the West Sea First Auction House.

Without hunting demons, engaging in magical battles, or taking risks, he successfully established his foundation solely through his intellect.

Secondly, there is the Western Sea Fighting Arena, which is not a peaceful place. Every month, several cultivators die in the fighting arena.

However, Yuan Wu had already successfully established his foundation through combat in the arena, and had also become one of the core figures of Wang Yuque's forces in the Western Sea.

It could be said that a small twist of fate transformed Yuan Wu, this good-for-nothing, into a steel-like figure.

There are quite a few people like Yuan Wu. They may be a little dim-witted, but their luck and talent are not too bad, so they can carve out a bloody path in the arena.

Thirdly, it is the No. 1 Wine Pavilion in the West Sea, where Wang Yuque and Jin Mingdu held their wedding.

Now that Wang Yulou has become the vice leader of the Immortal Alliance, the Wine Immortal Restaurant has become the most famous restaurant in the West Sea, as if it were edged with gold.

Huang Qiusheng stayed in Xihai Xiancheng to meet Zheng Yan, the steward of the Wang family's Xihai villa.

In a private room on the third floor of Jiu Zhong Xian, Anthony Wong politely invited Zheng Yan to take a seat.

"Fellow Daoist Zheng Yan, Qiu Sheng greets you, please."

After a brief struggle, Anthony Wong revealed the true purpose of his trip.

"I am deeply grateful for the kindness shown to me by Master Chunze, but I have no way to repay it. Therefore, I would like to send some gifts to Fellow Daoist Yingxi through Fellow Daoist Zheng Yan."

This matter is known to you, to me, to Fellow Daoist Yingxi, and to True Person Yuque; only in this way can we prevent outsiders from having any designs on it.

Mu Chunze's position is sensitive, so he cannot accept gifts from the Huang family. The implication is clear: he wants Old Huang to find Zhou Yingxi.

Zheng Yan was the core person in charge of the Wang family in Xihai and a confidant of Wang Yulou.

Anthony Wong chose him because he was afraid that if he went directly to Zhou Yingxi, it would cause trouble for Master Yuque.

Going directly to Master Yuque would be too conspicuous and would only cause him trouble.

Someone who doesn't have a very broad perspective might not even realize the problem.

It is because Anthony Wong was once the leader of the Red Lantern Gang and comes from a prominent family that he understands Wang Yuque's predicament.

The position of vice leader is real, but he is ultimately just a errand boy. Moreover, Wang Yulou's father-in-law is the prime minister of the Immortal Kingdom. Huang Qiusheng doesn't understand the intricacies of the situation, but he understands the principle of avoiding any appearance of impropriety.

“It’s nothing, but I need to report to Fairy Yingxi first. Sect Leader Qiusheng, you may have to wait.”

Zheng Yan ultimately dared not agree directly. Wang Yulou's decree spread to all his disciples—no one was allowed to easily accept gifts, especially those related to Wang Yulou.

It's just a small gain; there's no need to take it. Taking it will only make you look bad.

"Understood, understood. I'll stay in Xihai for a while then," Old Huang replied with a smile.

Suddenly, a loud noise came from outside the private room, so loud that even the soundproofing array couldn't stop it.

Zheng Yan frowned, looking somewhat puzzled. He was the foreman of the Wang family's cattle and horses in the West Sea. Since there was trouble at the Wine Immortal Inn, he couldn't just ignore it.

The two left the private room on the third floor together and stood on the corridor. They saw a group of Foundation Establishment cultivators dressed in the robes of Immortal Alliance stewards stopping in the main hall below. The leader of the group was Chen Yangshi.

The noise wasn't caused by the deacons of the Immortal Alliance, but by the cultivators eating in the lobby on the first floor.

Because the two cultivators behind Chen Yangshi were standing together, holding a huge portrait of the Jade Palace Immortal.

The portrait is made of seventh-grade spirit silkworm silk, and the Jade Palace Immortal on it stands with his hands behind his back, gazing into the distance from the mountaintop.

Because the painting depicts the profile of the Jade Palace Immortal, only half of his face and one eye are visible.

The artist is clearly highly skilled; with just the profile and eyes, he has captured the steadfastness and compassion in the heart of the Jade Palace Immortal, and his eyes hold boundless pity.

Yes, that's how a leader of a celestial alliance serving all cultivators should be.

Chen Yangshi arrived at the Immortal Wine Pavilion with the deacon of the Immortal Alliance and a portrait of the alliance leader. The cultivators who saw him naturally dared not be negligent and all knelt down to pay their respects, which is why they disturbed Zheng Yan and Huang Qiusheng in the private room.

After assessing the situation, Zheng Yan gave a wry smile and went down to greet Chen Yangshi and his entourage.

How could he not smile bitterly? He used to be the number one Jade General of the West Sea, but now a Scroll King has come running with a portrait.

You're Zheng Yan, you're numb too!
"The portrait of Jade Palace Immortal in the Wine Immortal Pavilion is very good, but it only shows what Jade Palace Immortal looked like in the past. This time, I took office as the assistant to Dragon Tiger Immortal in the Azure Immortal City and brought many new portraits with me."

"Come, Fellow Daoist Zheng, let's hang this new portrait up together."

After some back and forth, Chen Yangshi did not hesitate at all and treated Zheng Yan as one of his own.

He came to the Western Sea to serve Wang Yuque, but Wang Yuque's reforms and changes in direction were also for the sake of Shui Zun.

Therefore, by leveraging Wang Yuque's power, we can further develop Wang Yuque's influence in the Western Sea, and at the same time, we can better promote the reform and change its direction in the Western Sea, which means selecting first and then implementing it.

Devoting himself wholeheartedly to the cause, his loyalty is beyond words. This is the result of Chen Yangshi's tireless research day and night into the history of Wang Yuque's rise to power.

The immortals don't care about loyalty, but loyalty seems to be an essential ticket to entry. He has already been forced to be disloyal once, how dare he do it again?

Seeing Chen Yangshi and Zheng Yan, two Foundation Establishment cultivators, struggling to climb up and down to hang the portrait, Huang Qiusheng suddenly felt a sense of bewilderment.

Empty, floating, desolate, it's all so complicated.

If I hadn't stepped down, would I be the one in Wang Yuque today?
After Chen Yangshi finished his performance of "Xihai Xianzhong Wang Yuque", he took his seat with Zheng Yan and Huang Qiusheng and inquired about the matter of Xihai.

The Wang family's West Sea Villa remains unchanged, while the three immortals of the West Sea Immortal Alliance come and go.

His efforts to push for reform and change direction in Xihai, and to implement the reforms after elections, required Zheng Yan's support.

"It's difficult. Selecting first and then pushing is simple, but it's not easy either."

Four questions.

First, where are the selection criteria set?

We can't give all Qi Refining Peak cultivators the opportunity to participate in the selection process directly, but if we set the threshold too high, it will become a process of recommending candidates first and then selecting them.

Secondly, how are the recommended slots calculated?
It's not about who has the right to recommend; rather, the Alliance Leader has made it clear that there will be a limit on the number of Foundation Establishment slots.

With this restriction, who will be eligible for the Foundation Establishment recommendation slots, and how will they be allocated?
Third, regarding the decentralization of recommendation opportunities, at which level should they be decentralized?

Do those at the peak of Foundation Establishment qualify for recommendations? If so, what about those at the later stages of Foundation Establishment?

Fourth, should the situation of reselling Foundation Establishment recommendation slots be dealt with?

There are definitely some people who cannot be selected through the Foundation Establishment quota, but who have certain resources.

Given the change in the Immortal Alliance's reforms and the implementation of a selection-then-promotion system, the difference between legal and illegal foundation building will inevitably give rise to a 'slot trading' mechanism.

How to manage it, and how to govern it, are all problems.

Fellow Daoist Zheng Yan, I'm having a hard time too.

Your support is indispensable for the implementation of reforms in Xihai.

Come, let us drink this cup to the brim.

After drinking the spirit wine, Zheng Yan dared not slack off. Wang Yulou was in charge of the reform and sent Chen Yangshi to open up a new situation in Xihai, which was half of Wang Yulou's base. Naturally, he needed to give his full support.

It wasn't a time for internal strife; ultimately, he and Chen Yangshi belonged to two different factions under Wang Yulou.

He was a member of Wang Yulou's inherited team from the Wang family, while Chen Yangshi was Wang Yulou's subordinate in the Immortal Alliance. There was not much competition between them, and he could not compete with Chen Yangshi.

“Fellow Daoist Yangshi is very thoughtful. I don’t know anything about the reform; I’m just a wild cultivator from the Western Sea.”

However, Master Yuque had just held a special "selection before promotion" in Nine Aperture Valley, directly selecting more than seventy people from the outer disciples of Nine Aperture Valley to join the inner sect.

The twists and turns are quite fascinating, and there are relevant parallels to the four questions you just mentioned.

"You can ask the people of Nine Aperture Valley for the detailed procedures and learn from Master Yuque," Zheng Yan said.

"Yes, I have always taken Yu Que Zhenren's instructions to heart and soul, and I always gain new insights whenever I think about them."

I used to think that this was because I had some talent.

Gradually, I belatedly realized that this was all because the Jade Palace Immortal's skill was too high.

"The Alliance Leader's radiance only slightly touched me, yet I was instantly enlightened."

Chen Yangshi was walking along the path that Wang Yulou had once walked, and he was already starting to resemble 'Little Yulou'.

However, he had only scratched the surface of cultivation; he was still far, far away from the true essence of cultivation.

Wang Yulou, on the other hand, has already embarked on the extremely difficult path of cultivation.
-
"Husband, has your itinerary been a bit strange since you left the Immortal City?"

As the sun rose higher, Jin Mingdu climbed into Wang Yulou's arms and asked in a low voice.

He claimed to be mediating the battle between Datiantai Mountain and Mingcheng Taoist Temple, but in reality, he had been hiding in Jiuqiao Valley refining weapons.

Moreover, she always acts mysteriously, not even allowing herself to see it.

"Haha, no, I haven't seen the Wunan Cliffs yet, I just came to take a look."

Wang Yulou replied with a smile.

Only after personally escorting Qi Taiyu to the edge of the cliff in Wunan did Wang Yulou finally feel a little relieved.

As expected, Wu Ling Sheng Mao Shu has been promoted to the low-grade magic weapon level, and Qi Tai Yu has also left smoothly.

He was mentally prepared—what he did was obvious to those who were interested.

However, those who cared chose to remain silent.

Everyone here is a smart person; they believe Wang Yuque wouldn't do anything foolish, and his long-standing reputation has been honored at this moment.

The same applies to Mang Xiang. His act of sending Lao Li to keep an eye on Wang Yulou can also be seen as a form of protection.

After all, if Wang Yulou really messes things up and kills himself, it might actually hinder the progress of the Immortal Alliance's reforms.

"Shall we return to the Immortal City now?"

Wang Yulou looked in the direction the red light was shining, a hint of coldness flashing in his eyes, and said.

"No, I'm going to the Red Light District. It's been so long since I've seen Master."

Mang Xiang, Mang Xiang, he never liked seeing Mang Xiang.

This bastard killed too many people he once knew, far too many to count.

In theory, even without the wild elephant, there are still old elephants, large elephants, and baby elephants.

If we extend the timeframe, there will always be someone who, at some point in time, stirs up trouble, dragging Wang Yulou's fate into a turbulent sea of ​​suffering.

Therefore, Wang Yulou shouldn't hate Mang Xiang too much. Living in this special era, the rules and order have always been like this.

Moreover, there is no doubt that Mang Xiang also took Wang Yulou to Qingyun.

However, Wang Yulou was not an absolutely rational stone or ice cube—he had feelings and his own thoughts.

Moreover, from the same perspective of interests, if Wang Yulou doesn't get rid of Mang Xiang, he will find it difficult to truly walk independently at the center of the world stage.

Therefore, let's strive to overcome this obstacle.

However, before striving to overcome the formidable obstacle of the Mangxiang Mountain, it's essential to be sensible and understanding.
-
The one who flaunted his three flying magical artifacts was Wang Yuque, while the one who returned to Mangxiang Mountain to see his master was Wang Yulou.

Wang Yulou rode a fat, black dragon horse, his low-key demeanor almost frightening.

After he returned to Mangxiang Mountain, the news of his return to the sect was spread by the cultivators who had seen the three flying magical artifacts lingering outside the Red Lantern.

Perhaps it was because he needed to cultivate supernatural powers that Mangxiang remained in the world for a long time after attaining the Golden Elixir.

Wang Yulou was halfway up the mountain when he heard Mangxiang's voice.

I thought you weren't coming.

There was a hint of resentment in his voice, but Wang Yulou knew that Mang Xiang wouldn't hold any resentment.

Therefore, he was pointing out Wang Yulou's loyalty to Shui Zun.

When Chen Yangshi arrived in Xihai, it was as if the tentacles of the Water God had reached out to the Red Lantern, which displeased Lao Mang.

Wang Yulou flew all the way to the main hall of the Mangxiang Dojo, knelt on the ground and made a series of loud noises before speaking.

"Master, your disciple is guilty."

We cannot admit our mistake to Mangxiang, because Mangxiang might actually play this card.

But even if I am guilty, you cannot punish me—that is what Wang Yulou was trying to say!

Old Deng, the reform has changed direction, understand?

This is not disrespectful to the elephant, but rather because the two sides came together for mutual benefit.

"No, you are innocent, but you really don't need to come. I support the Water Lord's reforms."

The young immortal on the throne awoke from his meditative state, opened his deep eyes, and gazed down at Wang Yulou.

“Master, I plan to have Ancestor Xianmao use the magic treasure to open the Purple Mansion.”

The request echoed faintly in the empty hall, and Mang Xiang was genuinely taken aback by Wang Yulou's frankness.

He immediately laughed, his tone also carrying a hint of amusement.

"You don't need to test me, Yulou. As long as you are useful, I will continue to use you."

"However, we do lack a deep conversation."

"Now that the reform has come to this point, I am actually in an awkward position. I may never officially take office."

"The Water Venerable's reforms and change of direction are a good thing, but I would like to hear your true thoughts."

"Jade Pavilion, the true thoughts."

"After all, you're so good at pretending, you even faked weakness and a soft heart. For a while, I was really fooled by you."

"You have never truly revealed your true feelings about the reform."

"You may be able to fool those Purple Mansions below, but you can't fool me, much less the other fellow cultivators."

"You're putting on such a convincing act, it's too perfect."

“We can pretend, but you’re not qualified. So, tell us your true thoughts on the reform.”

Wang Yulou, stop pretending to be an idiot and tell the truth!
Mang Xiang's voice was very soft, but to Wang Yulou's ears it sounded like thunder.

Mang Xiang saw all his little tricks, including the part of 'cowardice' he deliberately maintained.

There are different levels of disguise. The disguise of the Heavenly Serpent is one where the fake becomes real and the real becomes fake, and it is real when it should be real and fake when it should be fake.

The water vessel's disguise is so precise that it can be made real or fake at will.

Wang Yulou's meticulousness in feigning his true intentions is evident in his arrangements for dealing with Chen Yangshi.

The arrangement for Chen Yangshi also included his keen insight into the big picture, his understanding in repaying the kindness of the water god, his greed to jump ship, his desire to go further, and his cowardice in not daring to cross the line.

However, it may be precisely because he pretended so earnestly that he exposed the truth that he was doing it on purpose.

“Master, Yu Lou believes that the reform can only delay the internal pressure problem of the Immortal Alliance.”

Water God's bet on the next era is essentially exchanging future expectations for present stability.

Whether it can be achieved is another matter.

Moreover, targeting only the lower-level cultivators, whether through quantitative extermination or selective elimination, is a dead end.

If things change for seven or eight hundred years, they will return to the old ways.

However, if changes continue for too long, the cost of maintaining control will not decrease.

Yu Lou's understanding is that both you and Shui Zun understood these things, but Shui Zun understood them even better.

Wang Yulou stopped there.

"Water Venerable is more awesome, you, Mangxiang, are no match for him"—this is a difficult thing to say, as it might be too hurtful to Mangxiang.

"Are you able to place more bets?"

The young immortal smiled and shook his head. He decided to pass on his knowledge to Wang Yulou.

After all, Wang Yulou was indeed capable, intelligent, ambitious, and patient.

"Yu Lou, I lied to them about everything. How could you believe me?"

(End of this chapter)