Immortality begins with upgrading buildings

Chapter 347 Ji Yuan's First Battle: The Might of the Core Formation Demon! [10,000 words, seeking monthly votes]

Wenjiu invited him to join the Temple of Black and White?

Is this his own idea, or the idea of ​​the Black and White Temple?

After a moment's thought, Ji Yuan made a decision. This was most likely an invitation from Wen Jiu. As for the Black and White Temple... they were always high and mighty, and it was impossible for them to invite an unknown nobody like him.

"I can only appreciate Brother Wen's kindness in my heart."

Ji Yuan smiled sheepishly.

"I am used to a leisurely life and cannot stand being restrained, so I can only disappoint Brother Wen's kindness."

"What's so special about that? I actually envy Brother Li for being such a free man."

Wen Jiu raised his wine cup and clinked it with Ji Yuan's, secretly pondering to himself... Those who can remain unmoved by the Black and White Temple are no ordinary people; either they already possess power and cannot easily join others.

Or perhaps it's as Li Changshou himself said—that he doesn't like being restrained—but that possibility is extremely small.

Wen Jiu preferred to believe the former, so it seemed that the possibility of Li Changshou being from the Tingtao Li family was much greater.

Soon the banquet dishes were served one after another.

The food hosted by a Core Formation cultivator was bound to be of high quality. Each dish was not only delicious and visually appealing, but more importantly, it was beneficial to one's cultivation.

Ji Yuan also got to taste the delicacy that Wen Jiu had mentioned.

It turned out to be the tendon of a third-tier spirit fish. The taste was excellent, and more importantly, it could increase one's cultivation level slightly after eating it, which was quite rare.

According to the restaurant owner, this dish, named "Step by Step to Higher Levels," is only available once every ten days.

All of these things illustrate the preciousness of the banquet served with warm wine.

After eating and drinking their fill, the two became more familiar with each other and spoke more truthfully. At least the words they uttered were no longer those flowery, polite phrases.

Wenjiu also told Ji Yuan that if he needed any help, he could just ask him.

"Speaking of which, there is indeed something that might require Brother Wen's help."

Ji Yuan readily agreed, but he also smiled sheepishly as he said it.

"Oh? What is it? Brother Li, why don't you tell me?"

I didn't feel there was anything wrong with warming the wine.

As long as they ask for your help, that's fine. Human relationships are all about give and take; you get to know each other after a while.

"Nine Obsidian."

Ji Yuan didn't beat around the bush and got straight to the point.

"Oh? Brother Li needs this Nine Luminaries Stone?"

Upon hearing this description of divine talent, Wenjiu's brows furrowed unconsciously.

I don't know if this thing is easy or difficult to handle, but judging from his reaction... it probably isn't.

"It just so happens that two pieces are needed to refine a natal magic weapon. No problem. If Brother Wen finds it difficult, I'll think of another way."

Ji Yuan did not force him, and what he said was the truth.

For him, this was a matter of taking a chance, no matter what.

"That's not it."

Wen Jiu waved his hand dismissively and said with a carefree laugh, "Since this item is what Brother Li needs to refine his natal magic weapon, then I will certainly help you get it."

"this……"

Ji Yuan was slightly pleased, but still said, "If it would be too much trouble for Brother Wen, then let's not. It is already my good fortune to be able to make your acquaintance."

"Brother Li, you're being too polite."

Wen Jiu chuckled and said, "This item may be difficult for outsiders to obtain, but it's not difficult for us Black and White Temple people. It just requires some resources."

"If you need anything, please feel free to send me a message."

If we can get the Nine Luminaries Stone, then the only material left to upgrade the [Heavenly Crafting Workshop] will be the Mystic Ice Fire Lotus.

"Alright, then Brother Li, please keep an eye out for the messages."

Since Wen Jiu had agreed to help retrieve the Nine Luminaries Stone, Ji Yuan couldn't bring himself to ask about the Mysterious Ice Fire Lotus anymore.

And if we really want to speak up, now is not the time.

We should wait until Wenjiu gets the Nine Luminaries Stone before making any decisions.

After discussing this matter, the two chatted politely about all sorts of things for a while before Ji Yuan got up to take his leave.

After warming the wine and politely trying to persuade him to stay a couple of times, the two parted ways.

Ji Yuan rarely goes out, so he spent a few days wandering around the eastern district of Xijing City before returning to his cave.

Just as he returned, he received a message from Liu Yuan saying that his friends had all returned to Xijing City.

He asked Ji Yuan if he had time to meet.

The reason for this is that it exists.

Three days later, Ji Yuan met Liu Yuan and several of his Core Formation friends in the South District.

A man and a woman whose relationship seems rather complicated.

The man, known as "Master Jinghong," was quite handsome, with the air of a middle-aged man.

In terms of cultivation level, he is already at the mid-stage of Core Formation.

The woman's name was "Kunyu Zhenren". Compared to others, her appearance could only be described as gentle, but she seemed to have a good personality. Whenever Ji Yuan looked at her, she always had a smile on her face.

He always responds to what others say.

Her cultivation level was at the early stage of Core Formation, but her aura was long and stable, and Ji Yuan estimated that she should be about to break through.

Besides them, there was also a rogue cultivator named "Qinglu Sanren," who was also a pill refiner and looked like an old man in his fifties or sixties.

He was also at the mid-stage of Core Formation. According to Liu Yuan, among the Core Formation cultivators in the Western Border City, this Green Furnace Hermit was quite famous.

Many people would come to him to have him refine elixirs.

Moreover, Liu Yuan also said that he had summoned Qinglu Sanren to give Ji Yuan a surprise.

surprise?

Ji Yuan intuitively felt that it was most likely related to the Xuanbing Fire Lotus, which was an excellent ingredient for refining elixirs.

Now that Liu Yuan has invited a fellow alchemist friend and said he wants to give him a surprise, Ji Yuan thinks that the only possibility is the Xuanbing Fire Lotus.

Of course, there is also an element of fantasy involved.

Because this is exactly what Ji Yuan needs most right now. Once he gathers the Mystic Ice Fire Lotus and the Nine Luminaries Stone, then the [Heavenly Craft Workshop] can be upgraded.

Once this building is upgraded.

This would grant him an extremely powerful third-tier formation, the "Inverted Big Dipper Formation." Ji Yuan estimated that it was similar to Yun Qianzai's "Inverted Jianghu Formation," both involving reversing formations to enhance their power while making those who entered the formation untraceable and impossible to break.

Another benefit is that you can obtain Purple Cloud Stones.

Ji Yuan has collected almost all the other materials for forging swords; the only thing missing is the Purple Cloud Stone.

Once the Purple Cloud Stone is obtained, the process of forging the Azure Wave Sword can begin.

Without the Lingtai Fangcun Mountain, the Canglan Sword would have been Ji Yuan's natal magic weapon.

If it were to be refined, it would surely possess immense power.

It can significantly boost one's strength!

With the Azure Wave Sword, Ji Yuan's strength increased, allowing him to begin collecting Void Stones to further enhance his power.

Therefore, this is inherently a case of interest compounding.

Ultimately, we still need to get our hands on the Mystic Ice Fire Lotus and the Nine Luminaries Stone first.

Finally, there was an old man with a short beard, wearing a coarse cloth jacket, whose nickname was "Mr. Iron Talisman".

His cultivation level is the same as Ji Yuan's, at the early stage of Core Formation, but he has already refined his own natal magic weapon.

The four friends, plus Ji Yuan and Liu Yuan.

There were six people in total. After a brief chat, Ji Yuan became familiar with them.

After all, someone who can become friends with Liu Yuan must have an extremely good personality.

After chatting for a day.

Liu Yuan then explained why he had rushed to introduce everyone: one reason was to introduce Ji Yuan to them, and the other was because... he was leaving.

He had pre-booked the teleportation array from the Western Border City to the Eastern Border City.

I'm leaving.

Although Ji Yuan already knew that Liu Yuan was going to leave, he did not expect him to be in such a hurry, especially since he was using a teleportation array from the Western Border City to the Eastern Border City.

Ji Yuan was aware that there were teleportation arrays in all four directions, as well as between the Black and White Cities.

For example, teleporting from the west to the north or south requires 5000 mid-grade spirit stones per trip.

In Black and White City, the cost is 5000 mid-grade spirit stones regardless of where you teleport from.

A long-distance teleportation from west to east requires 10000 mid-grade spirit stones per trip.

An ordinary early-stage Core Formation cultivator's entire fortune is only a few thousand mid-grade spirit stones.

This price is undeniably expensive.

Therefore, unless there is something very important, very few cultivators are willing to use this inter-regional teleportation array.

They would rather live in their original area.

As for flying with one's own body... that's far, far away.

Liu Yuan was leaving, so the banquet turned from a meeting into a farewell banquet.

Everyone saw them off one by one, with Ji Yuan naturally being the last to leave.

Moreover, when saying goodbye, Liu Yuan and Ji Yuan went outside the door and talked to each other telepathically.

"I'll go to the Eastern Border City first, and I'll probably stay there for ten or twenty years. Then I'll go to the Southern Border City, and stay there for about the same amount of time. After that, it'll be the Northern Border City, and finally the Black and White City. Of course, this is how it will go if nothing unexpected happens. If something unexpected happens, I don't know. It will be easier for you to contact me if you need anything then."

"it is good."

Ji Yuan silently made a note of this.

Liu Yuan then said, "Qinglu Sanren knows a place with Xuanbing Fire Lotus, but I don't know the specifics. He didn't say. However, I introduced you to him. He will tell you about it after the meeting."

"Okay, thanks."

Ji Yuan never expected that Liu Yuan, who was about to leave, would solve such a big problem for him.

"Yes, I've also asked people to continue searching for the Island Lord of Tai'an. The contact information is still the same as last time. They will contact you if there is any news."

As Liu Yuan spoke, he stepped forward, patted Ji Yuan on the shoulder, and said with a smile:

"Brother Ji, cultivate diligently, and we'll see who forms the Nascent Soul stage first."

"it is good."

Ji Yuan nodded with a smile.

My old friend Liu Yuan is truly devoted to me.

Since that was the case, Ji Yuan couldn't possibly be on duty, so he made some preparations and handed over a storage bag.

Liu Yuan instinctively wanted to refuse, but Ji Yuan said, "Take a look first before you speak."

Liu Yuan's divine sense invaded the storage bag, scanning it over in a flash. His eyes immediately lit up with joy, and he even subconsciously swallowed, saying:

"I can refuse gifts from others, but the ones from you, Brother Ji... I really can't bring myself to say those two words."

Why?

Because Ji Yuan only gave out alcoholic beverages.

The wine includes the "Wishful Wine," the "Peerless Wine," and other spirit wines that have been blessed by the "Wine Cellar."

"Then I'll accept it."

As Ji Yuan spoke, he slapped the storage bag onto Liu Yuan.

The latter accepted the spirit wine with a smile. As for the spirit wine that Ji Yuan offered, firstly, he was indeed craving it, and it suited his taste.

Secondly, it was because this item was indeed of great benefit to his spiritual practice.

For example, if it weren't for the wine that Ji Yuan gave him, he would never have been able to comprehend the "Wine Sword Technique," and he wouldn't have been able to form his core so smoothly.

Therefore, the item that Ji Yuan gave him was indeed his most cherished possession.

"Then take care, Brother Ji."

Liu Yuan put away his relaxed expression and solemnly bowed to Ji Yuan to say goodbye.

"Take care, be careful in everything you do, and never get into fights or brawls with others."

Ji Yuan rarely gave such a word of advice.

"it is good."

Liu Yuan smiled, then transformed into a streak of light blue and disappeared from the place.

As for his friends inside, he had already said goodbye, so it was alright.

Ji Yuan watched his departing figure and sighed inwardly.

"I've only been here a short while, and I've already said goodbye to another old friend... Time for some more cultivation."

Ji Yuan shook his head and went back into the house.

After Liu Yuan, the middleman, left, the others exchanged a few more polite words and then each found an excuse to leave.

Just as Yu Jiyuan was about to get up, he heard the voice transmission of Qinglu Sanren in his mind.

"Brother Jiu Jian said that Brother Chang Shou is quite interested in this Xuanbing Fire Lotus?"

Now that Ji Yuan has successfully formed his core, he naturally needs to have his own name.

Now that the two continents are connected, he didn't want to reveal his name on the Canglu Continent, so he casually adopted the name "Longevity Immortal".

Ji Yuan sat down again.

As for Master Jinghong and Master Kunyu, they left together.

Mr. Tie Fu didn't leave, and Ji Yuan guessed that he was also called down by this Qinglu Sanren.

Once everyone else was gone, Ji Yuan replied telepathically, "Indeed, Brother Jiu Jian said Brother Qing Lu knows about this item?"

Qinglu Sanren first glanced at Tie Fu Xiansheng, who nodded slightly and immediately activated an earth-yellow talisman from his dantian, causing it to float in the room.

Only then did Qinglu Sanren speak:

"Indeed, when I was seeking materials for alchemy in my early years, I happened to come across a Mysterious Ice Fire Lotus, but at that time it was not yet mature. I think it should be ready by now."

"If Brother Changshou really needs this item urgently, then it wouldn't be unreasonable to give it to you."

Ji Yuan's eyes revealed just the right amount of joy, and he immediately clasped his hands in a fist salute to the Green Furnace Hermit, saying, "Really? If this succeeds, I will certainly reward you handsomely!"

"Of course it's true. Brother Changshou is Brother Jiujian's good friend, would I lie to you?"

"No, no, I wouldn't dare."

"There is a third-tier demonic beast guarding the Xuanbing Fire Lotus. It will take some effort to take it down. To be on the safe side, I asked Mr. Tie Fu for help."

After Qinglu Sanren finished speaking, the usually composed Mr. Tiefu bowed to Ji Yuan.

Ji Yuan quickly returned the greeting.

"When will Brother Changshou be free? If it's convenient, we can go and collect it in the coming days, just in case something goes wrong."

"Qinglu Sanren suggested."

"Um……"

Ji Yuan's original intention was to see if he could find someone and spend some spirit stones to buy them, thus saving himself the trouble.

But now Qinglu Sanren wants him to go with him.

This is a really difficult problem to solve.

It was Liu Yuan who asked me to do him a favor by retrieving the Xuanbing Fire Lotus for me. Was I supposed to say, "Sigh, I won't go. You get it for me, and I'll pay you with spirit stones."

Not to mention that Qinglu Sanren's cultivation level is a small level higher than mine, even if we were of the same level, we shouldn't act like this.

To put it bluntly is to be incredibly disrespectful.

"Brother Changshou, is there something troubling you?"

Seeing that Ji Yuan did not answer immediately, Mr. Tie Fu tentatively asked.

"There are no difficulties, but I have just broken through to the next realm and don't even have my own natal magic weapon yet... I am indeed lacking in combat skills and I'm afraid I will hold you two back."

Ji Yuan stood up and bowed slightly to the two of them, saying, "If we fail to kill the demon and need your help, it would be a great loss."

Mr. Tie Fu was unsure about this matter, so he looked at the Green Furnace Hermit beside him.

The latter stroked his beard and smiled.

"Brother Changshou, you are overthinking it. I went to see it last year, and the monster was still at the early stage of the third rank. Even if it really broke through to the middle stage of the third rank, it will be fine with Brother Tiefu and me here."

"The reason I asked Brother Changshou to come along is simply to bolster our strength. If we encounter any problems, the other side will be wary of the three of us Core Formation cultivators."

"I see, then I have no further questions."

Since Qinglu Sanren had put it this way, Ji Yuan naturally couldn't refuse any longer.

Mr. Tie Fu walked over to Ji Yuan, gently patted him on the shoulder, and smiled:

"If things really come to a head, Brother Changshou, just hide behind us. We can protect you."

The Green Furnace Hermit, standing to the side, also laughed and said, "Exactly, exactly. Brother Tie Fu's Tortoise Shell Suppressing Yuan Talisman has left many mid-stage Core Formation cultivators helpless. It will definitely protect you."

"Oh?"

Upon hearing this, Ji Yuan immediately looked very seriously at the earthen-yellow talisman floating in the room.

Those who refine talismans into their own natal magic treasures are also extremely difficult to deal with.

Because they possess numerous talismans, they can use them against their enemies, minimizing their own resource consumption during combat.

And who knows what kind of strange talismans they'll throw out.

"Don't listen to this old man's nonsense. It's clearly my fellow Daoists giving me face."

Ji Yuan smiled along with him; he could also tell that Master Jinghong and Master Kunyu had a good relationship.

And this Green Furnace Hermit had a good relationship with this Iron Talisman Master.

"Alright then, let's all go back and prepare, and meet at the East Gate in three days, shall we?"

"Qinglu Sanren suggested."

"Very good."

"Can."

"..."

Having reached an agreement, the three of them left.

When Ji Yuan returned to his cave, he first sent a message to Mu Xueyao and told her about the matter. Her first reaction was that she wanted to go with him.

But Ji Yuan thought about it and ultimately refused.

This matter involves the secrets of Qinglu Sanren to some extent, and the fact that I was able to go is already considered as Liu Yuan intervening on my behalf.

It would be unreasonable to bring other people along.

"You stay in the city and help me keep things stable with the Zhou family. Besides, you know my situation. If something really happens, I can run away faster on my own."

"Well... okay then."

Although Mu Xueyao was very unwilling, Ji Yuan simply wouldn't take her along, and she had no other choice.

After finishing this matter, Ji Yuan was thinking of sending a message to Wen Jiu, but unexpectedly received a message from him first.

He said he had found a way to exchange for Nine Luminaries Stones, but he needed some resources, which he didn't have, so he sent a message to inquire.

So before Ji Yuan set off, he rushed to meet with Wen Jiu again.

The required resources are simple; all you need is a magic weapon.

Two Nine Luminaries Stones require merit points earned from exchanging three magical artifacts.

After careful consideration, Ji Yuan decided to believe him!

He took out the "Crimson Wave Whip," "Sea-Covering Pearl," and "Mist Dragon Gourd," which he was not used to or did not use often, and used them as the items for the exchange.

Wen Jiu was somewhat taken aback when he saw that the fellow Daoist who had just broken through could casually take out three magic treasures...

He took it casually and quickly smiled:

"We've only known each other for a short time, yet Brother Li dares to entrust me with such a precious treasure. I truly admire your magnanimity!"

Wen Jiu clasped his hands in a fist salute to Ji Yuan, then said solemnly, "Brother Li, rest assured, I will certainly not fail this trust."

...No, if you dare to betray me, I'm confident I can kill you.

Ji Yuan smiled, but said, "Don't befriend those you doubt, and don't doubt those you befriend. Brother Wen and I hit it off immediately, what do these external things matter?"

"That's true."

Wen Jiu smiled and nodded.

Regardless, it always feels good to be trusted.

Especially the feeling of being trusted so much after only knowing each other for a short time.

"Then there's no time to lose. I'll go and take care of this matter right away. Brother Li, just wait for my good news."

"Alright, I need to go find more materials to refine my natal magic weapon in a few days. I'll be going out for a while. If I can't reach you, Brother Wen, just wait for me to come back and contact you."

"Well, Brother Li, be careful when you go out. If you are outmatched, just mention the name of my Black and White Temple, and I will support you."

Wenjiu patted his chest and said.

"it is good."

Ji Yuan nodded slightly.

Having finished speaking with Wenjiu, Ji Yuan was relieved of a major matter and immediately returned to his cave to start packing.

Another day later, at dawn, he quietly transformed into a streak of light and departed. After meeting up with Qinglu Sanren and Tiefu Xiansheng at the east gate of Xijing City, they flew eastward together.

On the way, Qinglu Sanren also sent a message to Ji Yuan and the other person to introduce the relevant matters.

"The place where the Xuanbing Fire Lotus grows is in a cave in the heart of the Tian Sha Mountains. I found that place by chance when I was chasing a Gold-Eating Rat during a trip into the mountains to collect herbs twenty years ago."

"But the Xuanbing Fire Lotus was not yet mature at that time, and I did not want to waste such a precious resource, so I set up an array of restrictions there to conceal it. Now I think it should be almost time for it to mature."

"I see."

Ji Yuan replied telepathically.

The Tian Sha Mountain Range itself is a mountain range of unknown length and size, and Tian Sha Mountain, one of the Eight Sacred Lands, only occupies a small part of this mountain range.

The vast majority of the remaining areas were still unclaimed land.

It is a place where monsters roam freely and treasures grow, making it a treasure-hunting ground for countless cultivators.

The reason why this Western Border City is so prosperous is twofold: firstly, it is close to the Western Endless Sea, and secondly, it is the Tian Sha Mountain Range.

This mountain and the sea have sustained countless cultivators in the Western Border City.

It could even be said that Tian Sha Mountain, one of the eight sacred lands, is sustained by the Tian Sha Mountain range.

Ji Yuan knew about this, but had never been here before. This was his first time setting foot in the Tian Sha Mountain Range.

The Western Border City itself was built near the Tian Sha Mountain Range, but it still took Ji Yuan and his two companions more than half a month to get from the city to the mountain range.

This alone is enough to demonstrate the sheer size of the Abyss Continent.

"After entering the mountain, you two should be on your guard. For some reason, many third-tier demonic beasts have started to come to the outer areas of the Tian Sha Mountain Range. You never know when one of them might suddenly appear. If you accidentally get caught off guard, it will be troublesome."

Qinglu Sanren was a cultivator of alchemy, so he often went into these mountains and forests. Among the three, he was the most experienced.

As Ji Yuan nodded, he silently released his divine sense.

Previously, within the Western Border City, he had not dared to unleash his full power.

So strictly speaking, this was the first time he had fully unleashed his divine sense since he formed his core.

Soon, he realized the limits of his spiritual sense.

100 li!

His divine sense covered an area of ​​100 li in radius.

When he was still in the Pseudo-Core Formation stage, his divine sense could only cover a radius of 50 miles at most.

Therefore, after forming the Golden Core, his divine sense actually doubled!

"100 li, normally speaking, is the divine sense of the late Core Formation stage. So, if I calculate it this way, I can have the divine sense of the peak Core Formation stage by the mid-Core Formation stage. And when I reach the late Core Formation stage... my divine sense will be comparable to that of a Nascent Soul cultivator?!"

Ji Yuan's heart started racing at the thought of the Nascent Soul.

Nascent Soul level expert.

This is the lifelong dream of every cultivator... Ji Yuan calmly adjusted his breathing, suppressed the excitement in his heart, and followed behind Mr. Tie Fu and Qing Lu Sanren, continuing to fly deeper into the Tian Sha Mountain Range.

The three Core Formation cultivators working together created a powerful and oppressive atmosphere wherever their light passed, and they even encountered a third-tier Tongbei Ape along the way.

As a result, even the third-tier demonic beasts were frightened by this aura and fled in panic.

It wasn't until they entered the middle section of the Tian Sha Mountain Range that Qinglu Sanren suggested they land.

If they continue to fly so openly, it will attract too much attention.

After all, the most dangerous creatures in the Heavenly Fiend Mountains are not these demonic beasts, but... cultivators!

There's no doubt about the reason behind this.

The three then resorted to teleportation techniques or other means to travel for more than ten days.

Upon reaching the foot of a precipice, the mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, Qinglu Sanren, looked up and said:

"Thankfully, we haven't been discovered yet. Come with me quickly!"

After saying that, he transformed into a blue light and flew up. Ripples appeared on a cliff face, and he disappeared into them.

"Let's go too!"

Tie Fu called out, and Ji Yuan hurriedly followed.

After passing through the concealing formation, Ji Yuan arrived at a cave. A cool sensation rushed towards him, but after only a short while, the coolness faded, and a wave of heat hit him in the face.

This feeling of being caught between ice and fire naturally reminded Ji Yuan of his time on Ice and Fire Island.

I felt the same way when I was forging my sword in that icy and fiery pool.

"The growing conditions for this Mystic Ice Fire Lotus are quite unique."

After entering the cave, Qinglu Sanren was noticeably more relaxed and was able to explain things to Ji Yuan and the other person via telepathy.

"Oh? How so? I only know that this thing is extremely rare."

"Iron Talisman said telepathically."

"In short, it can be said that it must grow in a cold pool, but the cold pool must be above a fire vein. Both are indispensable."

"Qinglu Sanren explained."

A cold pool, yet it must be a fire vein.

The two are inherently incompatible, which only shows how wondrous the cultivation world truly is... With a sigh in his heart, Ji Yuan immediately released his divine sense to explore the depths of the cave.

30, 50, 60...80 li!

found it!

Ji Yuan's divine sense penetrated 80 miles forward and found a cold pool emitting icy air in a spacious stone chamber.

The cold pool was about ten feet wide, and in the very center of the pool grew a fiery red lotus the size of a palm.

No lotus leaves were visible, but a fiery red stem emerged from the cold pool.

The heat emanating from its body was completely out of place in this cold pool.

"So this is the Mystic Ice Fire Lotus...?"

While Ji Yuan was amazed, he then probed the interior of the cold pool with his divine sense.

When we arrived earlier, Qinglu Sanren said that the third-tier demon beast was a cold water crocodile that lived in this cold pool.

But... where is this monster?

Ji Yuan lowered his divine sense and instantly swept across the entire cold pool. However, apart from some scattered pebbles, he found nothing else at the bottom of the pool.

There were no living creatures at all.

Only a single stem of the Xuanbing Fire Lotus emerged from a crevice at the bottom of the icy pool, growing out all alone.

As for the source of the cold pool, it is stagnant water. However, the stones at the bottom of the pool are emitting a cold aura, suggesting that there is something more mysterious in the deeper parts.

Apart from that, no other passages were found inside the cave; the location of this icy pool is the deepest part of the cave.

"Brother Qinglu, what did you say this monster was again?"

Ji Yuan asked telepathically.

"A Tier 3 early-stage Cold Water Crocodile, what's wrong?"

"Qinglu Sanren turned around and asked."

Ji Yuan couldn't admit that he hadn't found the Cold Water Crocodile, otherwise he wouldn't be able to explain his spiritual sense problems, so he could only say in a deep voice, "There seems to be a problem here, you two be careful... I've always had a keen sense of danger, which is why I've survived until now. Be careful, be careful."

This statement came out.

Qinglu Sanren and Tie Fu Xiansheng immediately became extremely alert.

In particular, the Green Furnace Hermit immediately summoned his natal magic weapon from his dantian, which was a "Fire-Bearing Green Furnace".

The moment this natal magic weapon appeared, it dispelled much of the surrounding chill.

"retreat!"

Qinglu Sanren made a quick decision: "Let's retreat first!"

Having cultivated to the mid-stage of Core Formation as a rogue cultivator, he understands the principle of taking a half-step back when in doubt.

But when he turned around, he discovered that the "Longevity Immortal" at the very back had already transformed into a beam of light and flown away.

...He really does have a long life!

He muttered to himself and hurried to catch up.

Just as the Longevity Immortal at the front was about to leave the cave, the streak of light abruptly stopped.

"Be careful!"

Ji Yuan quickly shouted out.

Mr. Tie Fu and Mr. Qing Lu Sanren, who were behind him, quickly stopped.

Fortunately, the moment Mr. Tie Fu landed, he summoned his Tortoise Shell Suppressing Talisman.

A yellowish-brown talisman floated past Ji Yuan's shoulder and, upon landing in front of him, grew larger in the wind, transforming into a talisman as tall as a person, protecting the three of them.

The talisman blocked all the dark mist blowing in from the front of the cave.

Ji Yuan calmly put away the magic weapon, the Golden Light Mirror.

The Azure Furnace Hermit behind them summoned his Azure Pattern Furnace of Departing Fire, which spun endlessly behind the three of them, burning with Departing Fire to protect them.

Protected from both front and back, the cloud of mist had no chance to attack. It circled around the three of them, accompanied by a maniacal, hoarse laugh, before finally landing at the cave's exit and blocking their way.

The moment the dark mist landed, a creature covered in hair emerged from the ground... a zombie!

As it opened and closed its mouth, the cloud of dark mist was swallowed into its belly.

"After fishing for so long, we finally caught three big fish. It seems that letting you go back was a wise choice after all."

The zombie stared at Qinglu Sanren with its scarlet eyes and laughed maniacally.

Ji Yuan made a grasping motion with his right hand, and the three sword embryos, Canglan, Yunque, and Xuelu, flew out and combined on their own, transforming into a new Canglan sword.

This was also a tactic that Ji Yuan had previously discovered.

By using the Canglan Sword as the main sword and incorporating other flying swords, a new Canglan Sword can be formed.

The Canglan Sword in his hand now, for example, combines the characteristics of Cloud Mist and Blood Slaughter.

The most knowledgeable of the three, Qinglu Sanren, only observed for a moment before immediately determining the origin of the evil object before him!

"This is most likely a demonic cultivator in the late or peak stage of Core Formation. He died but did not stiffen, transforming into a hairy zombie, also called a Yin Corpse. Not only does he have skin of copper and bones of iron, but he is also incredibly strong. We must not let him get close, otherwise, with the strength of the three of us... we will surely die!"

After Qinglu Sanren finished speaking, he immediately summoned his Li Huo Qingwen Furnace and smashed it forward.

Seeing this, Ji Yuan also quickly activated the Canglan Sword and followed closely behind.

They attempted to break through the cave in one fell swoop.

Otherwise, trapped in this narrow cave, there's no way to escape, and you can only be beaten down by this Yin Corpse!

Mr. Tie Fu then activated the Tortoise Shell Suppressing Talisman with all his might to protect the three of them from being ambushed by the Yin Corpse.

"Trying to run away?!"

The Yin Corpse roared and suddenly raised its hands to press down on the Fire-Breaking Azure Pattern Furnace.

With a sudden burst of strength, its hands, covered in long fingernails, actually blocked the azure-patterned furnace.

Even with a blazing fire, it did absolutely nothing except slightly curl the fur on its body.

Seizing the opportunity, Ji Yuan immediately activated the Canglan Sword, piercing through the air above the Azure Pattern Furnace and slashing down with intense killing intent.

"when--"

The Canglan Sword struck the top of the Yin Corpse's head, producing a metallic clanging sound.

However, under Ji Yuan's divine sense, he couldn't even break the skin of the Yin Corpse.

Only a clear white mark remained on it.

"Wow... this skin is incredibly thick!"

Unable to free his hands, the corpse could only shake his head and grin maliciously:

"A mere early-stage Core Formation cultivator like you, if your flying sword were refined into a natal magic weapon, I might have some fear of you. Unfortunately, now… ha, trash!"

The corpse even spat out some saliva as it spoke.

Ji Yuan remained unmoved, flicked his right hand forward with his sword finger, and another purple sword embryo shot out, instantly merging into the Canglan Sword.

In that instant, a bolt of purple divine lightning suddenly shot out from the originally sharp Canglan Sword.

"Sizzle—"

A bolt of lightning struck, instantly splitting the corpse's body upright.

Seeing this, Qinglu Sanren seized the opportunity and smashed out the Qingwen Furnace.

With a loud "boom", the cave was immediately shattered.

Ji Yuan and the other two quickly transformed into streaks of light and escaped.

"court death!"

Once the divine lightning effect of the Thunderstrike Sword wore off, the Yin Corpse quickly returned to normal. It let out a low roar and immediately leaped into the air, transforming into a streak of gray light as it flew towards Ji Yuan, whose escape speed was the slowest.

Ji Yuan glanced back at the Yin Corpse and immediately threw out dozens of Heavenly Thunderbolts.

"Boom!"

Lightning bolts struck down, instantly forming a lightning curtain between Ji Yuan and the Yin Corpse.

The Yin Corpse had just been struck by lightning and was clearly traumatized. It immediately stopped moving and roared as it fixed its gaze on Mr. Iron Talisman.

It roared and charged out again, its body transforming into a black streak of light. In almost an instant, it reached Mr. Iron Talisman and with a single punch, knocked Mr. Iron Talisman, an early-stage Core Formation cultivator, into the mountains.

The corpse swooped down.

Qinglu Sanren, who had already escaped far away, sensed this scene and quickly stopped and flew back, landing in the same mountain forest.

Ji Yuan was somewhat moved by what he saw.

Everyone says that it's better to die for your fellow Daoist than for yourself, but this Green Furnace Hermit is not like that!

After only a moment's hesitation, Ji Yuan took out the magic weapon Thousand Needle Basket from his storage bag and then swooped down.

Now that he has already formed his core, activating a natal magic weapon that is in the early stage of core formation is no longer difficult for him.

In an instant, the battlefield transformed into a situation where three people were surrounding and killing a single Yin Corpse.

Even so, Ji Yuan and his two companions were still at a disadvantage under the attack of the Yin Corpse.

After all, their magical weapons and spells could only cause limited damage to the Yin Corpse, but the Yin Corpse's attacks had the power of thunder when they landed on them!

Ji Yuan, on the other hand, possessed an incredibly strong physique. He withstood several punches from the Yin Corpse without any apparent harm.

Mr. Tie Fu is also alright. His natal magic weapon is defensive in nature, so he was able to hold on in this battle.

But Qinglu Sanren is different.

He had only taken two punches before his mouth started bleeding.

What's even more perplexing is that all three of them are already entangled by this Yin Corpse. If even one of them dares to run, the other two will only have one path left—to perish—under the attack of this Yin Corpse...except for Ji Yuan!

So when he saw the precarious Qinglu Sanren, the moment the thought flashed through his mind, he made a decisive decision!

Shot!

Those who haven't reached the Core Formation stage are still subservient, and those who have are still subservient.

That's a load of rubbish!

It's not like we can't beat them.

Isn't it just a corpse?

Lao Tzu's Yin Corpse Demon Fire was forged from Yin Corpses, so let me show you what a demonic cultivator is all about!

"Fellow Daoists, please proceed first. I'll hold it off!"

Ji Yuan transmitted his thoughts through divine consciousness.

"No, how can we let Brother Changshou cover the rear?" Qinglu Sanren has always been a righteous person; otherwise, he wouldn't have turned back to rescue Tie Fu just now.

"That's right, Brother Changshou, you can go first. Lao Qing and I can hold it off!"

As Mr. Tie Fu was transmitting his voice, the Yin Corpse seized an opening and delivered a heavy punch, sending him flying back into the distant mountainside.

...Are you people from the Abyss Continent all this straightforward?!

In an instant, Ji Yuan also understood why Liu Yuan had become friends with them. This guy was a true fellow Daoist!

Seeing this, Ji Yuan threw out more than a dozen Heavenly Thunderbolts to stop the Yin Corpse from chasing after Mr. Iron Talisman.

"I have a way to escape, so you two can rest assured."

"If this drags on any longer, none of us will be able to leave!"

Ji Yuan's voice carried an undeniable air of authority.

Seeing that he didn't seem to be faking it, the already seriously injured Qinglu Sanren gritted his teeth and said:

"Then we'll meet Brother Changshou outside Tian Sha Mountain."

Be careful in everything you do!

After saying this, he and Mr. Tie Fu, who was in the distance, transformed into streaks of light and flew away.

Seeing that the meat that was about to be eaten had flown away, the corpse immediately let out a low growl and tried to give chase.

But just as it was about to move, Ji Yuan, clad in dark gold armor, suddenly appeared in front of it and pressed down on its head with one hand.

"Trying to run? Did you even ask me?!"

He finished speaking.

Ji Yuan slammed a fist into the corpse's chest, unleashing tremendous force that sent the corpse flying like a cannonball.

But in the blink of an eye, the Yin Corpse flew back. Its chest was slightly dented, and as the Yin energy surged around it, the dent immediately recovered.

"Looks like they're not bad off; no wonder they dared to let them go first!"

The corpse growled.

Ji Yuan waved his left hand, and four sword embryos flew back from a distance, hovering behind him.

Then he raised his right hand and snapped his fingers.

"Snap—"

Immediately, a green will-o'-the-wisp appeared between his thumb and forefinger.

The instant the will-o'-the-wisp appeared, an even colder aura suddenly descended, darkening the surrounding sky.

The Green Furnace Hermit and Mr. Iron Talisman, who had already escaped far away, seemed to sense something and turned back to look.

When they saw the dim sky over that area, a hint of fear flashed in Qinglu Sanren's eyes.

"This... is this fellow Daoist introduced by Brother Jiu Jian truly, truly a righteous person?"

Mr. Tie Fu whispered, "Can someone from the righteous path really cover for us? Stop talking, let's get out of here quickly, don't cause trouble for my brother Changshou!"

Qinglu Sanren gave Mr. Tiefu a deep look, but ultimately said nothing.

Then the two transformed into streaks of light and disappeared into the distance.

(End of this chapter)