Lingyuan Immortal

Chapter 980 Twenty-Eight Years of Snow Reflecting Candlelight

Counting on my fingers, when will the west wind come? Unbeknownst to me, the years have silently slipped away.

Time flies, and the green rocks on the summit of Huiyan Peak have become even more lustrous after being polished by wind and frost. In the blink of an eye, twenty-eight years have passed.

In the depths of winter that year, heavy snow fell incessantly, blanketing the vast land in white.

The world was silent and still, with only the majestic outlines of towering peaks appearing and disappearing in the misty snow, like a dragon lurking on the vast earth.

A nimble blue figure soared freely in this boundless, pure white canvas; it was Chen Bai, who had recently broken through to the third rank.

Its wings sliced ​​through the snow, leaving a fleeting trail of frost, like a drop of rich blue ink falling onto pristine Xuan paper.

A simple and ancient pavilion stands silently in the mountains. The crystal-clear icicles that have formed on the eaves and brackets are quietly melted by the warmth emanating from inside the pavilion. Water droplets fall and form a series of crystal-clear water curtains that hang down silently.

The warm pavilion under the eaves is furnished very simply, with only a small table and a cushion.

A small purple clay teapot on the table emitted wisps of white steam, the aroma of tea mingling with the crisp, snowy air, filling the room with a fragrant mist.

Chen Mu sat casually on the futon, his long hair loosely tied up with a plain white jade hairpin, a few strands falling in front of his forehead, making his face look even more refined and otherworldly, unlike ordinary people, but rather like a fairy spirit born from this snowy mountain landscape.

He held a yellowed Taoist book in his hands, his fingertips tracing the ancient characters, his mind completely absorbed in it.

Twenty-eight years of quiet meditation atop the peak, like a clear spring washing away the dust, has cleansed away the former solemnity and composure, and added a touch of natural ease and freedom.

Outside the pavilion, the wind and snow lingered and howled, while inside, only the sound of turning pages, the gentle simmering of tea in the pot, and his long, even breathing could be heard.

Time seemed to stand still in this tranquility, yet it flowed by quietly...

After an unknown amount of time, the wind and snow outside not only did not stop, but intensified and became even more powerful.

A biting, icy wind suddenly found a tiny, almost imperceptible gap in the window frame and rushed in with a sharp "whoosh," instantly extinguishing the candle flame on the desk that was emitting a dim, warm glow.

Chen Mu slowly awoke from the profound mystery of the Taoist book. When he looked up, he saw a faint golden light flashing in the darkness.

At that very instant the candlelight went out and the light disappeared, if an outsider were present, they would surely be astonished to see that deep within his pupils, a cluster of pale golden candlelight phantoms appeared in each one.

The flame was gentle and restrained, its light not intense, but it conveyed an eternal meaning that penetrated illusion and saw through the origin.

The cold wind could extinguish ordinary candles, but it could not shake the "Eastern Bright Candlelight" hidden deep within his soul and consciousness.

His lips curved slightly, a knowing smile playing on his lips. He put down the Taoist book in his hand, casually extended his right palm, his long, slender fingers slowly probing into the swirling, biting wind.

There was no sign of spiritual energy surging, nor any trace of Daoist energy dissipating.

The originally raging cold wind suddenly became incredibly docile under his light touch, as if it had encountered an invisible net, rising and falling, swirling and wandering with the slightest movement of his fingertips, as gentle as silk wrapped around his finger.

At the same time, scenes flashed silently before Chen Mu's eyes like flowing water:

The cold wind rises from the deep mountain ravine, carrying ice crystals and water vapor, soaring upwards, crashing into the high-altitude clouds, mingling and swirling with the snowflakes, then howling past the withered pines and strange rocks, stirring up thousands of snow waves...

Finally, it found a crack and rushed into the warm ancient pavilion, bringing with it a bone-chilling cold...

From its birth to its demise, the origins, experiences, and even the subtle causal relationships that constituted its existence were all vividly revealed in Chen Mu's eyes, which flickered with pale golden candlelight.

And this is precisely the achievement of "Dongming Zhuzhao"!
Unlike the many powerful Taoist techniques he possesses, his focus on this technique differs greatly from its ordinary offensive capabilities. What he diligently seeks is its supreme and wondrous use: reflecting all things in the world, discerning the true nature of things, seeing the causal connections, and breaking through countless illusions.

This path is undoubtedly more difficult. Even with his comprehension, after 28 years of hard work, day and night, he has only just begun to grasp the basics and enter the inner sanctum.

It may sound quite bizarre, after all, he only practiced the immortal technique "Moon in the Water" for a few days. But the two are worlds apart and cannot be compared at all.

"Moon in the Water" is a simplified version of the immortal technique passed down by his master, which he used almost immediately without much effort to comprehend its essence. In addition, the profound blessing of the second Dao Fruit transformed from the innate Ren Water in his body enabled him to cultivate at such an astonishing speed.

"Dongming Zhuzhao" is the comprehension that Yan Kong has gained through ten thousand years of seclusion. Even if it does not reach the level of immortal arts, it has already reached the ultimate realm of mortal Daoist arts, pointing directly to the origin of the Great Dao. Not to mention that he needs to constantly combine it with his own Daoist path, continuously deduce, comprehend, and adjust it so that it can truly be used by him.

As a result, their progress in learning naturally became much slower.

Of course, during these twenty-eight years, Chen Mu did not only cultivate the "Dongming Zhuzhao" technique.

Besides honing his Taoist foundation daily, he also devoted countless efforts to sorting out and integrating the complex Taoist system he had learned.

For example, the "Six Ding Dispelling Calamity Sword," "Twelve Dragon Sparrow Slaying Immortal Demon Blade," and Dragon Palace Thunder Technique he learned in the past, their ranks are clearly stated, and he has already deduced them to the perfect state that his own path of cultivation can accommodate.

Now, as he continues his cultivation, he is following the origin of his own water magic, constantly trying to integrate and transform, and exploring the unique trajectory of his "Dao".

Among them, the transformation of "Ling Shu Qing Yuan Zhen Shui" is the most astonishing.

This technique originated from the middle-grade supernatural power of the "True Record of the Capital Water Mansion" in Fushan Changhe. After twenty-eight years of cultivating it day and night with his own understanding of the Great Dao of Water, he reshaped its origin and has long been transformed.

Although it still uses the old name, its inner meaning, mysterious operation, and power level have long surpassed the original version, and it has become the third pillar of his Taoist magic, second only to "Moon in the Water" and "Eastern Bright Candle".

If the old Taoist priest Tianxing were to witness this one day, he would probably find it difficult to discern whether this Taoist technique was still his own family's inheritance...

Amidst the swirling snow, a steady beam of light appeared from the horizon. As it approached Huiyan Mountain, it descended from the clouds, revealing Fu Danian's tall and imposing figure as he trudged up the mountain through the thick snow.

Upon seeing him, Chen Bai, who was soaring through the wind and snow, was not alarmed. Instead, he folded his wings and landed, speaking in human language and respectfully bowing: "This humble one, Chen Bai, greets True Lord Fu."

The current Fu Danian is significantly different from the Fu Danian when Qizhen Temple was first established 28 years ago.

His cultivation aura became increasingly smooth and harmonious, and his every move exuded a calm and composed demeanor. Although he still possessed a bold and forthright spirit, he also displayed a maturity and composure honed through his experience in sect affairs.

The flourishing of Qizhen Temple clearly gave him great encouragement and confidence.

"Haha, you little sparrow, your demonic essence has become much more refined and solid since the last time I saw you!"

Fu Danian laughed loudly, his voice shaking the flying snow, still carrying the heroic spirit of his past.

He did not look down on Chen Bai because of his shallow cultivation level. On the contrary, he treated him with the gentleness of an elder looking at a junior and casually tossed out a crimson spirit fruit that exuded a rich fragrance of herbs from his storage bag as a small gift.

Over the past twenty years, he has frequently visited Huiyan Peak. Rather than saying he came for Qizhen Temple, it would be more accurate to say that he regarded Chen Mu as a true comrade and close friend.

Whenever he thought about those actions in the temple that used Chen Mu's name to create momentum, he always felt a little guilty. These frequent visits were not without a sense of compensation and maintenance of their friendship... After exchanging a few simple pleasantries and dismissing Chen Bai, Fu Danian climbed the steps, the snow under his feet crunching softly, and soon arrived in front of the ancient pavilion.

Before the door to the pavilion was closed, Chen Mu had already poured two steaming cups of spiritual tea and was waiting quietly at the table.

Their eyes met calmly amidst the rising steam of the tea, and they exchanged knowing smiles. After bowing to each other in greeting, they sat down opposite each other on the prayer cushions.

Chen Mu picked up his teacup, the steam blurring his handsome features, and joked, "It's been several years since we last met, Fellow Daoist Fu, your imposing presence has only grown more awe-inspiring."

The elders of Qizhen Temple, who held high positions and wielded great power, naturally deserved the title of "majestic."

Upon hearing this, Fu Danian gave a helpless, bitter smile, and the demeanor he had been trying to maintain instantly vanished: "What demeanor? It's nothing more than being worn out by mundane affairs and paperwork!"

"To be honest, every time I set foot on Huiyan Peak, seeing Fellow Daoist Chen's carefree and untroubled life of eating the clouds and drinking the dew, I am truly envious!"

He sighed. The temple was in its infancy, everything was in disarray and needed people everywhere.

Qi Yunsu was nearing a breakthrough and was granted special permission by the patriarch to go into seclusion. Wei Cangdong was exceptionally talented and was also exempted from most of his worldly affairs to focus on cultivation. In the end, these burdens fell on their shoulders.
Chen Mu smiled slightly, but did not reply. He simply gestured for him to drink tea.

Having already made up his mind not to get involved in the affairs of Qizhen Temple, he naturally wouldn't say a word about the arrangements made by the temple.

Seeing this, Fu Danian sighed inwardly.

It seems that the bond between the sect and Chen Mu, forged in the battle of the Three Immortal Valley, can never be fully restored.

But just then, Master Dongzhu had another task fall on his shoulders...

Fu Danian held the warm teacup, his eyes flickering, his face showing obvious hesitation and struggle. He hesitated several times before speaking, unsure whether he should.

Chen Mu took in his expression but seemed oblivious, chatting casually with him about the sights and sounds of Xuandu and his cultivation experiences.

The tea was added again and again, but the water in the pot gradually cooled.

After a long while, the aroma of the tea dissipated.

In the past, Fu Danian would have gotten up to say goodbye at this point.

He hesitated for a long time, but finally made up his mind. He was unwilling to ruin his rare friendship with Chen Mu because of the sect's mission. He decided to put the patriarch's order aside and immediately stood up and clasped his hands: "I have disturbed your cultivation, fellow Daoist. I will take my leave now."

It was precisely his resolute silence that stirred something within Chen Mu, who was observing the situation.

The other party was willing to face blame upon returning, but was determined to maintain this friendship. This sentiment was clear, so how could he bear to see them in such a difficult situation?
Chen Mu then stood up, his voice gentle yet carrying an undeniable air of authority: "Fellow Daoist Fu, we have known each other for a long time and understand each other's temperaments. We can be considered close friends. If there is anything you need, please feel free to speak frankly."

He made it clear that this was a friend's request, not related to his master's school, and that whether he told them or not would change the nature of the matter.

This move would at least absolve Fu Danian of the fault of "disobeying orders," and as for whether or not to comply, the initiative would be entirely in Chen Mu's hands.

Fu Danian suddenly stopped, turned his back to Chen Mu, and sighed heavily, as if a huge burden had been lifted from his shoulders.

He turned around, his face filled with gratitude and a hint of shame, and said in a deep voice, "Fellow Daoist Chen is very righteous. I am ashamed. To be honest, I have come here to ask you something."

He paused for a moment: "Is there a fellow Daoist in your esteemed Immortal Sect's Azure Tide Pavilion currently a guest of the Taiyin Si Clan?"

Chen Mu remained expressionless and nodded: "It is indeed my senior sister, Murong Xi."

This matter was not a secret to people at the Qizhen Temple level.

Fu Danian took out a visiting card with gold trim and brimming with spiritual energy from his wide robe sleeves, presented it with both hands, and said in a somewhat earnest tone: "I humbly request that Fellow Daoist Chen, when it is convenient for you, pass this card on to your senior sister, Fellow Daoist Murong..."

Chen Mu did not immediately go to answer her, but instead frowned slightly: "What is your purpose in seeking my senior sister?"

The pale golden candlelight in his eyes seemed to flicker slightly.

Fu Danian dared not conceal anything and revealed the arrangements of the Eastern Candle Ancestor in detail: "Fellow Daoist Chen must have also heard about the so-called selection of immortal envoys."

"Such opportunities in the upper realm are only known to the core circle of the three major immortal sects in Xuandu, but after nearly thirty years, the news has become hard to conceal."

"Although my Qizhen Temple is newly established and its foundation is still shallow, I still yearn for it. However, the three major immortal sects control it very strictly, and ordinary forces can hardly get a share of the pie."

He paused, a helpless look on his face. "The patriarch's intention is to take advantage of Senior Sister Ling's friendship with Si Xuanshuang of the Taiyin Si Clan and earnestly request Fellow Daoist Murong to introduce and mediate, to see if we can secure one or two spots for our Qizhen Temple, or at least... be able to participate and share some of the karmic opportunities."

This is an attempt to use Murong Xi's connections to board the big ship of the Taiyin Si clan.

Chen Mu listened quietly and nodded slowly.

He pondered for a moment, then looked calmly at Fu Danian: "Fellow Daoist Fu, I'm afraid I can't help you with this matter. I can't pass this message on for you."

Upon hearing this, Fu Danian was taken aback at first, then realized what was happening, and a bitter expression appeared on his face.

This time, Chen Mu didn't even bother with euphemisms like "seclusion for enlightenment" or "having some profound insights." He refused directly, his attitude clearer than ever before...

He shook his head and sighed, "Very well! I understand your intentions, fellow Daoist. With these words, I can return and give an explanation to the Ancestral Master."

He withdrew his visiting card, solemnly clasped his hands in greeting again, turned and stepped into the swirling snow, his back view carrying a touch of desolation.

Chen Muyi stepped out of the ancient pavilion and stood alone under the eaves in the wind and snow.

Looking into the distance, the wind and snow create a hazy atmosphere, and the distant mountains, like azure dragons, are hidden behind the mist and snow curtain, appearing and disappearing intermittently.

Instantly, an indescribable sense of unease filled my heart.

He had clearly decided to distance himself from the selection of the "He Xian Envoy" long ago, so why did he feel at this moment that this matter was still somehow connected to him in some mysterious way?
Was it a restless, wandering thought stemming from a troubled mind? Or was it the "Eastern Bright Candle Illumination," a nascent understanding of the path, silently revealing a faint, ominous sign of future cause and effect to him?
He stood under the eaves, motionless for a long time, letting the wind and snow beat against his clothes and hair, his figure seemingly blending into this icy and snowy landscape.

In the end, only a barely audible sigh remained, dissipating into the howling wind and snow:
"Xuan Du is about to descend into chaos again..."

……

(End of this chapter)