Starting as a Talisman Master

"I see."

Lu Chi sat cross-legged, pressed the inheritance jade slip against his forehead, and slowly probed it with a wisp of his mind.

The jade slip rippled with spiritual light, and fragments of text and diagrams of the practice flowed into his sea of ​​consciousness. He didn't flip through it page by page like turning the pages of a book; instead, the entire framework was laid out first, and then he dissected and analyzed it bit by bit.

After a moment, he moved the jade slip away, exhaled softly, and a look of understanding appeared in his eyes.

There are so many intricacies involved in the Foundation Establishment stage of cultivation.

After the Qi refining is complete, a wisp of the essence of heaven and earth must be refined to serve as a vessel for magical power and to solidify the foundation.

If this item is successfully created, there will be a chance to transform one's spiritual power from scattered to condensed, truly establishing a foundation for one's Dao.

The key to this "Mysterious Origin Foundation Transformation Technique" lies precisely here.

The reason why Han Jingxing only mentioned "two-tenths of the opportunity for foundation building" is not because the Dharma is completely useless, but because the foundation-building guide he chose is too dangerous and complicated.

According to the jade slip, this method requires collecting and refining the earth's veins and floating evil energy, and then combining it with a wisp of pure energy at dawn and dusk. The two energies are then ground together to forcibly refine the "foundational primordial energy".

The advantage is that the barrier to entry is low.

There's no need to search for those rare and priceless essences of heaven and earth; if independent cultivators are willing to take the risk, they might have a chance to gather them in the wilderness.

The downsides are also obvious.

The earth's veins are turbid and stagnant, while the clear energy dissipates at dawn and dusk. When the two are forcibly combined, the resulting primordial energy is inherently impure.

Used to build the foundation of the Dao, if there is the slightest mistake, the power to break through the barrier will be unstable and may collapse on the spot.

The so-called 20% is mostly an overstatement.

Lu Chi memorized this key point, paused for a moment, and then continued to recall the first half of the jade slip.

This "Mysterious Origin Foundation Transformation Technique" does not only record the foundation building method; it also includes Qi cultivation and breathing techniques as well as several supporting methods, making the structure quite complete.

After seeing the fundamental method of circulating qi, he frowned slightly.

This method primarily focuses on the metal element.

With each breath, spiritual energy flows like silk or a blade, sharp and powerful, truly possessing its own strengths.

If a cultivator with a strong metal element practices this method, they will likely be quite effective in early-stage combat.

But it doesn't suit him.

His spiritual nature is biased, and he is always more attuned to the water element. He also finds it most comfortable to use water-related spiritual energy for his daily breathing exercises.

"This method does have some merit. First, memorize the incantation, and then slowly prepare the spiritual items needed for the transition. If we really can't find a more suitable foundation-building method in the future, it will still be better than my current nameless technique."

Lu Chi tapped his knee lightly with his fingers, quickly making a judgment in his mind, and then focused his attention on one of the minor offensive techniques in the Qi Refining stage of the "Mysterious Origin Foundation Transformation Technique".

"Golden Spray Cuts Leaves".

Its method does not involve large, sweeping movements, but rather repeatedly presses the metal elemental energy into the fingertips, condensing it into a sharp line.

When it strikes, the energy is fine and swift, sweeping through the air silently. If mastered, it can break through the weak points of a person's protective aura at close range, and can also sever vines and cut leaves at a distance. It is most suitable for intercepting an opponent's first move and disrupting their rhythm.

What's even more remarkable is that this technique can be practiced separately.

There is no need to first switch to the "Mysterious Origin Foundation Transformation Technique". You can barely perform it by simply circulating your spiritual power for a short time according to the method in the technique.

While its power may not be as refined as that of a true metal element cultivator, its advantage lies in its agility and concealment, making it practical enough for a surprise attack.

"This 'Golden Light Cutting Leaves Finger' is something we can start practicing first." A hint of interest appeared in Lu Chi's eyes.

Although he is now a talisman master, he has a number of usable talismans at his disposal, so he is often not at a disadvantage in a magical duel.

However, talismans are ultimately external objects, and no matter how fast one acts, there is always a momentary gap in taking or activating the talisman.

If one encounters an experienced cultivator, this opening might be easily exploited.

Moreover, those who have cultivated for a long time often have methods specifically designed to counter talismans.

It is true that I can rely on the Dao of Talismans to establish myself now, but if I neglect all my close-combat techniques because of this, I will suffer sooner or later.

He then calmed himself down and carefully reviewed the energy cultivation method of "Golden Light Cutting Leaves" in his mind once again.

Although this technique can be practiced alone, it ultimately originates from the Metal element method.

Forcing the change of his spiritual power, which is more compatible with the water element, would be like trying to grind a sharp blade with soft water; there would inevitably be some awkwardness involved.

Following the instructions in the technique, Lu Chi first raised his hand and put his fingers together, slightly bending the fingertips. With his other hand, he made a hand seal to guide his qi, trying to gather the spiritual power in his body between his index and middle fingers.

Take a breath.

Two breaths.

The spiritual energy at his fingertips had just condensed into a tiny glimmer when it suddenly dissipated.

Failed.

Lu Chi's expression remained unchanged; he merely frowned slightly and started over.

The lights inside the room gradually dimmed, and the night outside the window grew deeper.

By daybreak the next day, he still hadn't truly mastered the technique.

Seeing that it was getting late, he stopped trying to hold on, ended the ritual, sat cross-legged to regulate his breathing for a while, and after his spiritual energy was calmed down, he got up and went to the backyard.

As usual, I first inspected the spiritual field, and then, based on the growth and spiritual changes of each spiritual plant, I adjusted the water and moistened the soil to nourish the roots.

"Once I've planted thirty first-tier spirit plants, my [Spirit Farmer] skill will level up. Right now, I've already collected nearly half of them in my spirit field. Not to mention, I've also added three second-tier spirit plant seeds, so the accumulation will probably be even faster."

Lu Chi nodded, quite satisfied.

After finishing his work at the spirit field, he went to the front room to draw talismans. In his spare time, he would go to the market to continue searching for various spirit seeds and medicinal materials for alchemy, and also to explore the methods of alchemy.

The days passed slowly in this repetitive cycle.

After the tea party, although there were some rumors about "Lu the Talisman Master of the Moon Concealment Pavilion" in the market, they did not immediately cause any waves.

Most people gossiped about it privately, but no one actually came to cause trouble.

Han Jingxing only came once, took a few talismans, chatted for a bit, and left, without mentioning the marriage alliance with the Han family again.

Luowen Mountain and Xuanyin Valley were unusually quiet.

Although Lu Chi remained somewhat wary, he was also happy to have this peace and quiet, which allowed him to focus on his own work.

Some time passed in this way.

On this afternoon, the courtyard was calm and the sunlight was warm.

Lu Chi focused intently on writing at the desk inside the room. As the brush reached the final turn, his wrist sank slightly, and the spiritual energy converged at the tail of the talisman.

hum.

The runes on the paper glowed slightly before settling down.

It's complete.

As soon as Lu Chi put down the talisman brush, the familiar panel in front of him trembled slightly, and a prompt appeared.

[Job Upgrade: Rune Master Lv.3 (0/100)]

The [Talisman Master] has leveled up again!

After he was able to reliably draw high-grade talismans, his accumulation of this skill accelerated significantly.

Lu Chi's gaze sharpened, but before he could examine it closely, another notification appeared.

[Gained new talent: Insightful Eyes]

[Spiritual Eye]: When observing a talisman, one can see the strength of the talisman's patterns and the smoothness of the connection between spiritual intents, distinguishing its quality and flaws at a glance. In combat, one can also use it to observe the gaps in the operation of spells and the thinness of the flow of spiritual power, to find weaknesses and seize the opportunity to break through.

After reading the description of the [Spirit Eye], Lu Chi quickly understood its uses.

He immediately focused his mind and channeled his spiritual energy, trying to look at the newly formed talisman on the table.

Upon closer inspection, everything changed.

[Tier 1 High-Grade Spirit Gathering Talisman]

[Spirit Gathering Effect: It can gather the surrounding spiritual energy and gradually increase the spiritual energy of a place. It is suitable for daily breathing exercises and nourishing the spiritual field for cultivators in the late stage of Qi Refining.]

[Available timeframe: Approximately 23 to 27 days (subject to change depending on the spiritual energy concentration of the location)]

[Talisman Status: Stable formation, complete spiritual energy]

[Identifiable flaws: The connection of the spiritual intent at the third turning point is slightly sluggish; the return stroke at the end of the talisman is slightly too heavy, and the spiritual energy at the end is slightly subdued; the spiritual energy infusion on the left side is slightly off-center, and the flow of spiritual energy will weaken slightly after prolonged exposure.]

"There are so many subtle flaws... In the past, even if it had become a talisman, I myself would never have noticed these problems." Lu Chi's eyes flickered, and he quickly understood the reason.

Many of my methods for creating talismans were initially derived by forcibly deducing them through the "Burning Thoughts" technique.

He also carries the foundation from his early years as a talisman repairman. The broken talismans he repaired came from different talisman masters, and his writing style and habits were naturally mixed.

While it may be able to reach the highest grade now, it may not be perfect in every aspect. With the [Spiritual Eye], these details can be picked out one by one and then gradually smoothed out.

Thinking of this, Lu Chi was in a great mood, and he even looked at the second half of the description of the [Spirit Eye] with more anticipation.

"...When facing an enemy, one can observe the gaps in the operation of spells and the weak points in the flow of spiritual energy in order to find a weakness."

This new talent can actually be used in combat, but unfortunately there's nowhere to test it right now.

The area in the heart of Qingque Mountain Market is strictly regulated and frequently patrolled. No thief would dare to show his face here and give him a chance to practice.

I can only keep it in mind for now, and I will have the opportunity to verify it in the future.

Lu Chi got up and tidied up the talisman paper and ink on the table. He sorted the newly made talismans into categories and put them into the talisman box. He then changed into a robe for going out, tidied his appearance, and pushed open the door to leave the courtyard.

They soon arrived near the Moon Hidden Pavilion.

There were more cultivators entering and leaving the Moon Concealment Pavilion than usual, and the sounds of people could be faintly heard inside.

Just as Lu Chi was about to step inside, he saw a figure emerge from the doorway, dressed in neat robes with a gaunt face—it was Mu Changfeng.

"Master Lu." Mu Changfeng looked up and saw him, his steps faltering slightly. His usually indifferent face showed little change in expression, but his gaze lingered for a moment longer than before.

He had previously treated Lu Chi with indifference, but now that Yueyin Pavilion's business was improving, his attitude towards Lu Chi was bound to be somewhat unmoved upon seeing him again.

Lu Chi returned the greeting with clasped hands: "Elder Mu."

Mu Changfeng nodded slightly, as if it were a routine meeting.

Just as they were about to pass each other, a very thin whisper entered Lu Chi's ears. The tone was not heavy, but every word was barbed.

"People in the marketplace are like a surging tide, easily swayed by lust and trends. Master Lu, you should exercise self-control and not let momentary pleasures ruin your future."

Is this old fellow giving me a warning? He seems unwilling to see the Moon Concealment Pavilion gain momentum... Lu Chi's eyes flickered slightly, but his face remained calm as usual. He replied via telepathy, "What do you mean by that, Elder Mu? I am merely drawing talismans in the pavilion to make a living, doing my duty."

Mu Changfeng snorted coldly, said nothing more, put his hands behind his back and left. His robes swayed slightly as he walked down the steps and blended into the crowd on the street.

Lu Chi turned his gaze and looked into the pavilion.

Qin Su Niang stood in front of the hall, dressed in a light gauze, with a jade hairpin swaying slightly in her hair, and a smile in her eyes.

"Master Lu is finally back. I thought you were getting more and more famous outside and would forget about Moon Concealment Pavilion."

Lu Chi was about to speak when his gaze fell on her, and his heart suddenly skipped a beat.

The [Spiritual Eye] operates silently.

Concentrate your mind in your eyes, observe the subtle and discern the hidden.

Qin Suniang... is actually in the late stage of Qi Refining?