SFS Chapter 195 Wu Ya Zi
Chapter 195 Wu Ya Zi
Chen Xu probed the jade slip with his divine sense, and a slightly aged voice resounded in his sea of consciousness:
"Congratulations on your successful Core Formation, fellow Daoist! The path to enlightenment is long and arduous, and today you have reached this milestone—a truly joyous occasion!"
"I am Wu Yazi, a wandering cultivator. The path of a wandering cultivator is full of thorns, and it is not easy to form a core. Fellow Daoist, you were able to break through to the next realm in Meteor City, which is truly a glory for us fellow cultivators."
"These are just my humble opinions, offered for your consideration, fellow Daoist. The newly formed elixir, the nascent golden core, is like an infant, requiring especially tender nurturing."
"The most important thing is to solidify your foundation and not to rush for progress. You should use your main cultivation method as the guide and slowly circulate it to allow your spiritual energy to merge with your golden core."
"Secondly, the tempering of the divine sense is of utmost importance. Once the golden core is formed, the sea of consciousness will also expand. One can seek out spiritual objects that can calm the mind, stabilize the spirit, and nourish the soul, or practice methods of concentration and visualization..."
In the jade slip, this rogue cultivator who called himself Wu Yazi shared a lot of information about the circulation of spiritual energy in the early stages of Core Formation, the nurturing of the Golden Core, and the tempering of divine consciousness.
And the insights and experiences gained from a recent breakthrough when one's realm is unstable.
Although there were no earth-shattering secret methods, every word revealed the pragmatism of someone who had been through it all, especially emphasizing the experience of how to make efficient use of time resources when resources are scarce for independent cultivators.
This has some reference value for Chen Xu, who is also a newly promoted Core Formation cultivator with the title of a rogue cultivator.
"I have heard that you, fellow Daoist, prefer tranquility and do not covet empty fame; this is the true nature of a Daoist practitioner. I am staying at the Cleansing Dust Residence in the west of the city for a short time; it is a quiet place for meditation."
"If you have some free time, fellow cultivator, why not come over for a chat? We are both independent cultivators, and the path to enlightenment is long and arduous. We can share our experiences and insights on the path of cultivation, or even strange and unusual tales, which may benefit both of us."
"I have a few jars of my own brewed Jade Pool Dew here. Although it is not a rare treasure, it is still clear and mellow, and can accompany a pleasant conversation."
The contents of the jade slip have now ended.
Chen Xu withdrew his divine sense and gently touched the surface of the jade slip with his fingertip.
Wu Yazi's congratulatory message was humble and polite, and the insights and experiences he shared seemed quite sincere and practical.
There was no condescending guidance from aristocratic cultivators, nor the deliberate flattery of a merchant; it was more like the heartfelt words of a fellow cultivator who had also struggled at the bottom for many years.
"A rogue cultivator... Wu Yazi... Dichen Residence..." Chen Xu murmured to himself.
For him, learning more about the Core Formation cultivator circle, especially the movements and survival strategies of the independent cultivator group, is not a bad thing.
Having made up his mind, Chen Xu looked at Nan Longyue, who was standing to the side: "Longyue, come with me to Dichen Residence in the west of the city to meet this fellow Daoist Wu Yazi."
A hint of surprise flashed in Nan Longyue's eyes, then she respectfully replied, "Yes, senior."
The two did not deliberately conceal their auras as they stepped out of the cave. Meteor City was still as prosperous as ever, but the world that Chen Xu perceived was quite different.
The flow of spiritual energy is clearer, and the ability to sense the strength of different auras among cultivators is more acute. Many places that used to require careful investigation can now be understood with a simple sweep of divine sense.
This is the essential improvement brought about by a higher level of attainment.
The western part of the city is slightly older than the main street, less glamorous and noisy, and more serene and charming.
Dichenju is not hard to find. It is a small courtyard facing the street with blue bricks and gray tiles. A wooden plaque with the words "Dichen" hangs on the gate.
Chen Xu raised his hand, his fingertips releasing a slight amount of spiritual energy, and gently tapped the door knocker.
In just a few breaths, the courtyard gate creaked open, and an old man with white hair and beard appeared at the door, dressed in a faded gray Taoist robe.
The old man had a gaunt face, peaceful eyes, and a well-rounded and restrained aura, indicating that he was also at the early stage of Core Formation.
"Is it that newly promoted Core Formation cultivator?" Wu Yazi smiled gently, his gaze sweeping over Chen Xu and Nan Longyue.
He stepped aside, gesturing for her to proceed. "I am Wu Yazi, and I have been waiting for you for a long time. And who is this fairy?"
"My name is Xu Ping'an. This is Fellow Daoist Nan Longyue." Chen Xu nodded slightly and led Nan Longyue into the courtyard.
The courtyard is small, but it is decorated with great elegance.
Several clumps of green bamboo swayed, an ancient vine coiled around, and in the corner, some fragrant plants were planted.
A stone table and several stone stools are placed under an ancient tree in the courtyard.
"Our dwelling is simple and humble, not as spiritually rich as your floating island cave, but it does have the advantage of being quieter." Wu Yazi led the two to sit down and personally picked up the pottery pot to fill it with wine.
The wine is pale blue and crystal clear. As soon as it is poured, a cool, refreshing aroma, like that of a cold pool, yet carrying a hint of herbal and woody fragrance, spreads out, instantly invigorating the spirit.
"This is my own brew, the Jade Pool Dew," Wu Yazi said, raising his wine cup with a sincere smile.
"The first cup is to congratulate you on your successful Core Formation! Please!"
"Fellow Daoist Wu, you're too kind, please!" Chen Xu raised his cup in response.
The wine is icy cold upon entry, like a stream of cool spring water sliding down the throat, then transforming into gentle spiritual energy that permeates the body, nourishing the soul.
Nan Longyue took a small sip, her beautiful eyes brightening slightly.
"Fine wine! Its spiritual energy is pure and mild, nourishing the soul; truly an extraordinary product." Chen Xu put down his wine cup and praised sincerely.
"Fellow Daoist Xu, you flatter me. These are just things to pass the time." Wu Yazi waved his hand, his smile growing wider.
"The commotion you caused when you broke through to the Core Formation stage was quite significant. I could clearly see the tribulation cloud phenomenon from the west of the city. The dragon roars and the spiritual vortex swirled nine times. It was truly a magnificent sight."
"How could someone without a profound foundation and extraordinary abilities attract such a celestial phenomenon?"
Chen Xu replied, "It's just a few unusual phenomena. However, Fellow Daoist Wu's insights on Core Formation have greatly benefited me."
"The path of a wandering cultivator is fraught with difficulties, and it is truly commendable that you, fellow Daoist, are willing to impart your knowledge so generously."
"Fellow Daoist, you are too modest." Wu Yazi stroked his white beard, his eyes filled with a clear understanding that came from having seen all the vicissitudes of life.
"The word 'lucky' is probably inappropriate when applied to a critical juncture like Core Formation. I have been in Meteor City for nearly a hundred years and have seen many newly Core Formation cultivators, but you are the first to cause such a phenomenon."
After a brief chat, Chen Xu put down his antique ceramic cup and looked at the white-haired old man opposite him with a gentle smile.
"Fellow Daoist Wu's winemaking skills are truly exceptional."
His tone was calm as his gaze swept over the small, exquisite courtyard: "This place is quiet amidst the hustle and bustle, with lush spiritual plants. I admire your tranquil state of mind."
Wu Yazi stroked his beard and chuckled, "I'm used to a life of leisure and wandering. This Dichen Residence is nothing more than a piece of rubble that shelters me from the wind and rain. To receive your praise, fellow Daoist, is already an honor."
He paused, a hint of understanding in his eyes: "Fellow Daoist, your Golden Core has just been formed, yet your aura is already harmonious and stable, far surpassing that of ordinary newly formed Core cultivators. Your cultivation foundation must be extremely profound."
"However, from the flow of your spiritual energy, I have observed that it seems to be governed by water, with wood, fire, and earth as its supporting elements, and it also contains a profound spiritual essence, which is truly extraordinary."
Chen Xu felt a chill run down his spine upon hearing this; Wu Ya Zi's insight was indeed sharp.
He could see through the fusion of the "Mysterious Water Dragon-Opening Technique" and the "Pure Origin Technique" at a glance.
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Chen Xu remained calm and said indifferently, "It's just some rudimentary inheritance, a matter of chance. I hope Fellow Daoist Wu will forgive my ignorance."
Wu Yazi laughed and stopped pursuing the matter, instead starting to chat about interesting anecdotes from the Core Formation circle in Meteor City.
Chen Xu listened casually, occasionally offering a few words of agreement.
The three of them spent a rather leisurely afternoon in this elegant courtyard, surrounded by the fragrance of spiritual plants and the aroma of cold dew wine.
……
Time flies, and several months have passed in the blink of an eye.
Inside the floating island cave, Chen Xu sat cross-legged in the Spirit Gathering Array. The four-colored golden cores slowly rotated in his dantian, each rotation absorbing and releasing a massive amount of spiritual energy from heaven and earth.
Nan Longyue, standing to the side, was also meditating with her eyes closed, consolidating her Core Formation realm. Behind her, the phantom of Chiwen was faintly visible, and her aura was becoming increasingly refined and powerful.
As for the fishpond, it was completely handed over to the Xuan Shui Ling Turtle to manage.
Suddenly, a fluctuation came from the restrictions outside the cave, accompanied by a familiar divine imprint.
Chen Xu raised an eyebrow and opened his eyes.
"Wu Yazi?"
With a thought, he activated the restriction.
A moment later, Wu Yazi appeared at the entrance of the cave.
Unlike his relaxed and composed demeanor when tasting wine a few months ago, his hair and beard were slightly disheveled, and his breathing was somewhat unsteady.
"Fellow Daoist Xu! Fellow Daoist Nan! I apologize for disturbing your peaceful cultivation!" Wu Yazi cupped his hands, his voice carrying a hint of urgency.
"Fellow Daoist Wu, please come in. Is there something urgent?" Chen Xu stood up and gestured for the other party to sit down.
Wu Ya Zi did not sit down, but took a deep breath and lowered his voice, saying, "Fellow Daoist Xu, I have come here today because I have discovered an immense opportunity, but also an immense danger!"
"With my old man and a few friends, it would be extremely difficult to accomplish anything. After much thought, I came up with the idea of two fellow Daoists."
Chen Xu remained calm, waiting for what was to come.
Nan Longyue also stopped cultivating and looked over curiously.
"Fellow Daoist, are you familiar with the Eye of the Netherworld Sea?" Wu Yazi asked intently.
Chen Xu quickly recalled the sea map he had reviewed at the Meteorite Merchant Guild and nodded:
"I've heard a little about it; it's located on the edge of the open sea and is a notorious and dangerous place."
"It is shrouded in violent spatial turbulence and highly poisonous cold mist all year round, and there are also ancient restrictions that are faintly visible. Ordinary Core Formation cultivators dare not venture in easily."
"This is it!" Wu Yazi slapped his thigh. "I've been tracking a rare treasure-hunting carp for months."
"That beast was incredibly cunning, escaping several times, but in the end, in its panic, it plunged headlong into the edge of the turbulent currents of the Dark Sea Eye."
"I was unwilling to give up, so I took the risk of pursuing them for a distance, relying on a rare treasure I obtained in my early years, the Dinglan Pearl."
"Although we failed to capture the carp, during a brief respite from a spatial turbulence, we unexpectedly glimpsed a corner of the ancient cultivator's remains submerged in the abyss of the sea!"
"Ancient cultivator's remains?!" Nan Longyue couldn't help but exclaim softly.
Wu Yazi nodded heavily, confirming Nan Longyue's guess:
"There is absolutely no mistake! When I was young, I also had the opportunity to enter an ancient cave dwelling left by a cultivator. The unique Taoist charm and decorative style were exactly the same as what I saw."
He looked at Chen Xu, his tone solemn: "Fellow Daoist Xu! Such an opportunity is rare, perhaps only once in ten thousand years!"
"For us rogue cultivators who have reached the Core Formation stage, cultivation is not easy. Without a great opportunity, it is difficult to make any further progress..."
Chen Xu did not respond immediately, his eyes revealing neither joy nor anger.
Wu Yazi's description is extremely tempting: a well-preserved ancient site, the value of which is immeasurable, but the risks are equally enormous.
Why did Wu Yazi take the initiative to share such a significant opportunity?
Furthermore, who are these "several friends" he mentioned? Can they be trusted?
"Fellow Daoist Wu," Chen Xu finally spoke, his voice steady.
Wu Yazi seemed to have anticipated this question, and a helpless bitter smile appeared on his face: "To be honest, it would be as difficult as climbing to heaven for this old man to even get close to the entrance of the ruins by himself."
"The combination of that spatial turbulence and bone-corroding cold mist would be fatal even for a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator trying to force their way through. As for my fellow cultivators..."
He paused, then sighed: "They are all old friends who have been independent cultivators for decades, and their cultivation levels are the same as mine, all at the early stage of Core Formation."
"If we join forces, we might be able to venture out to the outer perimeter of the ruins, but we're not capable of truly breaking through the outer barriers and entering the core area."
"When I visited your cave before, I found that the formation you set up was extremely unusual. With the help of a formation master like you, we will surely gain something."
"So, Fellow Daoist Wu means..." Chen Xu slowly began, his fingertips lightly tapping the stone table:
"We hope that you and Fellow Daoist Nan will join us to make up for your shortcomings in breaking through restrictions?"
"That's exactly what I meant!" Wu Yazi's eyes flashed, and he quickly added, "If the two of you join us, our chances of penetrating deep into the core area will increase to at least 50%!"
"We can negotiate the distribution of the core items from the ruins according to our contributions; we will ensure that neither of you suffers a loss!"
Chen Xu did not immediately agree, but turned his gaze to Nan Longyue: "Longyue, what do you think?"
Nan Longyue respectfully replied, "I will leave everything to your decision, senior."
Chen Xu nodded slightly and looked at Wu Ya Zi again: "Fellow Daoist Wu, opportunities and risks go hand in hand. The Youlan Sea Eye has a notorious reputation, and the outer restrictions of the ruins you mentioned are probably not something to be trifled with."
"I need more details, and who are your old friends? What are their abilities and character?"
Seeing that Chen Xu's attitude had softened, Wu Yazi gathered his thoughts and said:
"Among my fellow practitioners, one is Zhang Yan, who cultivates fire and earth techniques. He is straightforward and hot-tempered, skilled in attacking and breaking through barriers, and his defense is also quite remarkable."
"One of them is Qianjizi, who is proficient in the art of talismans and has a meticulous mind."
"The last one is Liu Yiyi, a music cultivator. Her signature move, 'Azure Sea Tide Song,' can both disturb the enemy's mind and soothe one's own spiritual energy, making her extremely useful in team operations."
"These three are all old friends of mine, and I can absolutely trust them."
"As for the plan..." Wu Yazi flipped his wrist, and a beam of spiritual light was projected onto the stone table, forming a simple map of the sea area composed of spiritual light.
At the center, a constantly twisting vortex mark stands out prominently; it is the Eye of the Deep Sea.
"First and foremost, timing is crucial." Wu Yazi pointed to the vortex mark:
"The spatial turbulence in the Eye of the Dark Sea is not always violent. We need to wait for the next major turbulence to subside, which should take about half a month."
"At that time, the entrance to the core area will be relatively stable, and the concentration of the bone-chilling fog will be at its lowest point, making it the best window for infiltration. If you miss this opportunity, you may have to wait several more years."
He moved his finger, emphasizing the edge of the whirlpool in the sea eye: "The entrance is here, shrouded in an extremely strong barrier, which is very difficult to break through by force. This is precisely the key to why we need your help, fellow Daoist."