Demonic Cultivator(461-470) (Patreon)

Chapter 461: New Gu

This bee had originally been an ordinary fire bee, born from the blood queen's brood. Later, it was transformed by him using the Platinum-tier insect cultivation method of the cave world.

Its fire sac could store the Netherfire Devouring Flames. Its body, once a blend of red and yellow, had turned into a striking black and red, resembling a venomous bee straight from the depths of hell. The very sight of it was enough to send chills through one's heart.

However, this was merely the first batch of fire bees he had cultivated, and as such, it still possessed many flaws. For instance, its lifespan was rather short. It was also incapable of storing the Netherfire Devouring Flame for long periods. Over time, it could even be consumed by the flames, catching fire on its own.

He had kept one as a memento, while the others had died off once their life force had been exhausted. To his surprise, this particular fire bee had turned out to be useful after all.

Moreover, the blood bee had an extraordinarily small brain, only obeying the commands of the queen. There was no risk of anyone prying into its memories, which was why he had felt at ease in taking it out.

"This is…"

Ning Tai stared at the fire bee in astonishment.

Chu Xuan carefully cradled the bee in his palm, his tone reverent.

"This bee was something I unintentionally found while exploring an ancient ruin. When I found it, it was on the brink of death, lying in natural spiritual fire, and I noticed it was feeding off the fire. Taking advantage of its weakness, I took it with me, but not knowing how to tame insects, I've kept it sealed in this jade box, merely to prolong its life."

Chu Xuan gestured toward the bee's swollen abdomen.

"Fellow Daoist Ning, take a look. Its belly is glowing red and emitting high heat; it must have a fire sac inside."

Ning Tai was taken aback, his eyes wide with astonishment. A fire bee capable of consuming natural spiritual fire was indeed a rare sight!

However, the bee looked sickly and frail. Its taming potential seemed to be long gone, and it appeared to be valuable only as a collectible.

Ning Tai nodded repeatedly. "This fire bee is indeed precious. That senior would certainly be pleased. In that case, I shall exchange it for my Dragon-shaped Bug."

Chu Xuan smiled and nodded. The fire bee was of little value to him. As long as he wished, he could easily mass-produce more. But a Dragon-shaped Bug over three hundred years old was a rare find. To exchange the fire bee for this Dragon-shaped Bug was a deal that could not fail to benefit him.

The two exchanged insects with mutual satisfaction.

Ning Tai, his face beaming with joy, quickly packed up and left.

Chu Xuan also returned home.

"You are diligent in your work, that's commendable. These next few days, continue to investigate the prices at the shops in Neon Garment Market. It would be best if you could find any shops on the verge of closing down. If so, take the opportunity to acquire them."

Chu Xuan casually instructed.

He Zhao nodded repeatedly. "Rest assured, senior! I will dedicate myself fully to this task!"

Once the instructions were given, Chu Xuan returned to the Tea House, swiftly stepping out and using the Myriad Realm Mirror to return to the Water Curtain Cave.

The various insect species were already prepared. Now, it was time to employ the Heavenly Cave Insect Cultivation Method.

The Heavenly Cave Insect Cultivation Method, after all, originated from the Cave World and differed from the insect cultivation techniques of the Immortal Realm.

Chu Xuan had already spent considerable effort improving it, making the method adaptable to the Immortal Realm. This was not difficult, merely a bit tedious. The template had already been established, and the next steps were merely fine-tuning.

Chu Xuan gazed at the twelve types of insects before him and immediately began his work. The powerful organs of the insects, such as the fire sac of the fire bee or the venom sac of the poison bee, were much like spiritual roots. They were the very foundation of an insect's survival. Without these organs, they could not grow.

However, in order to create the Heavenly Cave Insect, which would fuse the best traits of these powerful insects, he had no choice but to make sacrifices.

Chu Xuan had no moral qualms about such matters.

...

Half a year later.

The training room glowed with golden light. Chu Xuan looked at the transformed Dragon-shaped Bug before him, his face filled with astonishment. It worked! He had succeeded on the first try.

"Recently, my luck has been quite good."

Chu Xuan nodded with satisfaction, closely examining the Dragon-shaped Bug, which was now soundly asleep. Throughout the process of transplanting insect organs, the Dragon-shaped Bug had remained in a deep slumber. If any sign of pain had appeared, Chu Xuan would have halted the transplant of that particular organ.

But if no severe reaction occurred, it meant the transplant was successful. Thus, he had transplanted five insect organs into the Dragon-shaped Bug. Now, the Dragon-shaped Bug possessed the wings of a moth, a fire sac, spider fangs, mantis arms, and phosphorus hair.

The moth wings enabled it to fly without a sound. The fire sac allowed it to store Netherfire Devouring Flame. The spider fangs enabled it to easily crush hard objects and inject venom. The mantis arms allowed it to easily slice through flesh, especially in critical areas like the throat. The phosphorus hair allowed it to conceal its form, even evading the spiritual sense of a Deity Transformation cultivator.

In addition to the Dragon-shaped Bug's sturdy body, strong vitality, and long lifespan, this newly created Heavenly Cave Insect was nothing short of an all-purpose weapon!

Chu Xuan quickly inspected it and discovered that the Heavenly Cave Insect had already risen from the middle stage of the third transformation to the fourth transformation.

He was overjoyed. With just a little more cultivation, it would soon reach the fifth transformation, a powerful insect of the highest rank. Once it reached that level, the Heavenly Cave Insect would undoubtedly become his deadliest weapon!

"It's time to give you a name. What shall it be?"

"Heavenly Cave Insect... You were cultivated using the methods of the Cave World. Let's call you Tiankong."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly, feeling satisfied with the name. It wasn't as easy to pronounce as he had hoped, but it would suffice.

"Wake up."

Chu Xuan infused a trace of Spiritual Qi into the insect. Tiankong shook its head and immediately woke up, sluggishly coming to life.

The Dragon-shaped Bug had always been notoriously lazy. Unless it was on the brink of starvation, it wouldn't move a muscle. The fact that this one had survived to this day...

It likely had something to do with its shining, golden appearance. After all, who wouldn't want to raise a pet that was low-maintenance yet cool and flashy?

Tiankong seemed to be puzzled by its current state. However, it quickly adapted to its new organs, accepting the situation as it was. Life, after all, was like that. Since it couldn't resist, it would just enjoy it.

With a soft thud, Tiankong rolled over and resumed its deep slumber.

Chu Xuan watched, speechless. He tried to stir it up several times, but it didn't react at all—almost as if it were dead.

After a brief moment of contemplation, he retrieved a "Dragon Blood Crystal," the Dragon-shaped Bug's favorite treat. This crystal, when held near the ear, emitted an eerie, melodic sound, almost resembling the legendary roar of a dragon. Hence, it had been named the Dragon Blood Crystal.

In reality, it had nothing to do with dragon's blood at all. It was just a mineral. The Dragon Blood Crystal wasn't anything special, except for its hardness. As a result, it was incredibly cheap. A single large spirit stone could buy up to a hundred thousand pounds of Dragon Blood Crystal.

So, Chu Xuan had purchased an entire hundred thousand pounds, more than enough to last Tiankong for hundreds or even thousands of years. Sure enough, as soon as he took out the Dragon Blood Crystal, Tiankong immediately sprang into action, darting towards it at full speed.

Yet, its tiny eyes, no bigger than rice grains, remained shut. It seemed to be sleepwalking.

Chu Xuan couldn't help but feel his teeth grind. So, it's a glutton in its next life, huh!

Chapter 462: A Higher Realm

Chu Xuan propped his chin up, watching Tiankong slowly gnaw on the Dragon Blood Crystal, crushing it into pieces and swallowing it down. After quite a while, Tiankong was finally full. Despite the many Dragon Blood Crystals scattered around, it made no move to eat any more, simply curling up to sleep deeply.

Chu Xuan couldn't help but shake his head.

"Well, it seems there's nothing for you to do for now. If you want to eat, then eat. Just focus on reaching the fifth stage as soon as possible."

He stored Tiankong back into the insect-rearing pouch, tossing in a fair amount of Dragon Blood Crystals before turning his attention to other matters. He first flew to the Zombie Farm, checking in with the Zombie Matriarch and Zombie Empress to see if there were any new developments. Both of the undead women shook their heads with visible difficulty. Clearly, the mermaid zombies sent out across the deep seas of Blue Star had yet to return with any news.

Chu Xuan didn't feel too disappointed. After all, it had been like this for many years, and he wasn't expecting any immediate results. He returned once more to the Water Curtain Cave.

"Not bad, you really have entered a higher realm?"

Chu Xuan focused again on the situation within the Cave World. Suddenly, he noticed that Xiao Renjie had, for some reason, appeared to have aged backward by several decades.

The frail, aged face he had seen before had transformed into that of a handsome, middle-aged man. Even the once-loose muscles had now tightened and bulged. If one didn't look closely, they would assume he was a well-built, healthy middle-aged man!

"Hahaha! It worked! I've finally entered a higher realm!"

Xiao Renjie laughed in delight.

"What should the realm above Diamond-level be called? I don't recall the ancestors mentioning it... Let's call it Starry-level."

Xiao Renjie nodded in agreement, "Starry Insect Master, Starry-level Demon Insect! But... why do I not feel the sensation of ascension?"

Xiao Renjie quickly pulled out a yellowed book from the shelf. The book was filled with handwritten notes, each page marked with a date. It resembled more of a personal journal.

Chu Xuan scanned the book with his spiritual sense, absorbing its contents at an astonishing speed. This book was a legacy left behind by the founding ancestor of the Wan Insect Tribe. The author had been an ascended Insect Master.

According to the writings, once one reached the realm above Diamond-level Insect Master, their entire body would feel light, almost weightless.

Once the cultivation level was fully sufficient, they would ascend entirely, with no obstacles left. From this, it was clear that Xiao Renjie still had some distance to go before true ascension.

"Now I see... just a little more, just a little more..."

Xiao Renjie pondered for a while, then suddenly spoke, "Since that's the case, I must unify everything before my ascension is complete!"

"The Myriad Insects Kingdom, the Heavenly Cave Kingdom, and the Flying Dragon Kingdom shall all fall under my rule! This is a great achievement that no monarch of the Myriad Insects Kingdom has ever accomplished!"

His eyes burned with the fire of ambition. This was completely natural. Throughout history, which emperor or general did not wish to be immortalized in the annals of time? Which one did not long for their name to echo through the ages?

"With my current strength, all I need is to lead a team of elite Insect Masters to strike straight into the heart of the Flying Dragon Kingdom and storm their capital!"

Xiao Renjie's eyes gleamed even brighter as a sinister smile spread across his face.

Under Chu Xuan's watch, it was no surprise that within just one month, Xiao Renjie had gathered a group of exceptionally elite, fiercely loyal Insect Masters. This group of Insect Masters consisted of a total of one hundred people, all of whom had mastered the Orifice Opening Scripture.

Each one was at least a Platinum Insect Master. Among them, ten captains were Diamond-level Insect Masters!

The leader of the group had even entered the ranks of the titled Insect Masters, with the title of "Seven Kills." His demon insect was a Seven Kills Bee, famed for its skill in stealth and assassination!

"My King, you summoned us—what urgent matter requires our attention?"

The Seven Kills Insect Master stepped forward swiftly, his face a mask of confusion. This group of one hundred was undoubtedly the strongest collection of Insect Masters in the Myriad Insects Kingdom.

What exactly was the King planning?

Xiao Renjie laughed loudly, "Uncle Wang, what could it be? Of course, we are going to the Flying Dragon Kingdom's capital!"

The Seven Kills Insect Master's face turned pale with shock. "My King, what are you saying? Please, do not speak such foolishness!"

Xiao Renjie smiled coldly, "Uncle Wang, you may strike at me now. Hold nothing back."

The Seven Kills Insect Master shook his head repeatedly, "No! My King, though you are a Diamond Insect Master, you are still no match for me. If I go all out, you will surely be gravely injured. I cannot do such a thing."

Xiao Renjie's expression darkened, and he spoke in a commanding tone, "I order you, strike with all your might!"

His voice carried the weight of a sovereign, a tone that brooked no refusal.

The Seven Kills Insect Master had no choice but to relent. With a wave of his hand, the Seven Kills Bee surged forward.

To be cautious, he did not allow the Seven Kills Bee to use its invisibility. He feared that his King, in his current state, might not react in time and could be seriously injured.

After all, the Seven Kills Bee was extraordinarily fast, and no Insect Master could possibly react in time. The others, upon hearing the conversation between the King and the Seven Kills Insect Master, were equally astonished. They craned their necks, eager to see what would come of this strange exchange.

"Go!"

The Seven Kills Insect Master sighed, issuing the command.

The moment the Seven Kills Bee charged forward, a massive praying mantis appeared beside Xiao Renjie. With a flash of its sharp arms, it swiftly seized the Seven Kills Bee.

At Xiao Renjie's command, the mantis' powerful limbs would tighten and split the Seven Kills Bee in two!

The Seven Kills Insect Master's eyes nearly popped out. "My King, you...?"

Xiao Renjie laughed heartily. "Uncle Wang, I have reached a level beyond that of a Diamond Insect Master! I shall call it the Starry Grade!"

The Seven Kills Insect Master was utterly stunned. He immediately knelt before Xiao Renjie. "My King, your divine power is unparalleled!"

The other Diamond and Platinum Insect Masters, having witnessed the scene, quickly followed suit and fell to their knees.

"My King, your divine power is unparalleled!"

"My King, your divine power is unparalleled!"

Their voices roared like thunder, reverberating endlessly.

Xiao Renjie laughed, waving his hand to signal the black mantis to release its grip, allowing the Seven Kills Bee to return.

"Rise! I shall accomplish a great, unrepeatable feat! The three great kingdoms shall all fall under my dominion! The day my achievement is complete, all of you will be my loyal subjects!"

Upon hearing these words, the Insect Masters' faces were filled with excitement.

"We swear to follow our King to the death! We will not hesitate, even in the face of a thousand deaths!"

A month later, the Myriad Insects Kingdom, which had just annexed the Heavenly Cave Kingdom, launched a fierce assault on the Flying Dragon Kingdom's borders.

However, the Flying Dragon Kingdom had long been prepared for the Myriad Insects Kingdom's ambitions. A large number of Insect Masters had already been stationed along the border.

The two sides clashed like massive war machines, grinding each other into dust. As the border battle reached a fever pitch, a group of elite Insect Masters silently infiltrated the Flying Dragon Kingdom from another direction. The leader of this group was none other than Xiao Renjie, now a Starry Grade Insect Master!

The main army on the eastern border was merely a feint. His small group, consisting of one hundred and one Insect Masters, was the true force that would strike directly into the heart of the Flying Dragon Kingdom!

Had it still been led by the Seven Kills Insect Master, this small team would not have been able to break through to the royal capital. But now, the leader was Xiao Renjie!

As a Starry Grade Insect Master, he held an overwhelming advantage over Diamond and even Titled Insect Masters!

This battle was destined to be his victory!

Reports from the Flying Dragon Kingdom's western border spoke of a mysterious group of Insect Masters infiltrating their ranks.

However, this information did not raise much alarm at the royal court. Small groups of infiltrators were a common tactic, hardly worth noticing.

But soon, the Flying Dragon Kingdom would pay a heavy price for their negligence. In less than a month, Xiao Renjie led his strike team into the heart of the Flying Dragon Kingdom's royal capital!

Chapter 463: Flying Dragon Cultivation Method

"Flying Dragon Cultivation Method... So it's not a real flying dragon after all. It's a demonic insect that resembles a dragonfly."

Chu Xuan's spiritual sense swept over the Flying Dragon Cultivation Method, and he nodded thoughtfully.

Indeed, the cultivation world had similar concepts. Enormous dragonfly-like demonic beasts were known as "Dragon Dragonflies." This Flying Dragon Cultivation Method seemed quite good.

However, Chu Xuan no longer needed more insect creatures. With Gangsi, Chenxi, and Tiankong, these three insect creatures were more than enough. Any additional ones would only serve as embellishments.

Chu Xuan focused his spiritual sense and materialized the words, displaying the Great Orifice Opening Scripture on the surface of the mirror shards.

On the other side of the mirror, Xiao Renjie's face was filled with ecstasy.

"Good, good, good! This is indeed the Great Orifice Opening Scripture! With it, I shall surely ascend!"

Xiao Renjie quickly selected the "Azure Fire Dragon," the most powerful insect from the Flying Dragon Kingdom, to be his new demonic insect.

After cultivating both the Orifice Opening Scripture and the Great Orifice Opening Scripture, he had gained two more Insect Orifices. Now, he had seven Insect Orifices in total, capable of taming seven demonic insects!

At that moment, a look of joy on Xiao Renjie's face suddenly twisted into one of pain.

"No! Don't come closer! I must ascend. I must become the strongest insect master in the history of the three great kingdoms! I will never go underground! You will never influence me!"

Xiao Renjie writhed in agony within the grand palace, as if he were a wriggling insect.

Several eunuchs attempted to approach, but the old eunuch who had been with Xiao Renjie for years shook his head, signaling them to stay back.

A young eunuch, with a sudden flash of thought, growled, "I cannot let the King suffer like this! Your Majesty, I will save you!"

He dashed forward.

The old eunuch sighed deeply and made no further move.

The young eunuch quickly reached Xiao Renjie's side and was about to speak, but before he could do so, Xiao Renjie's eyes turned bloodshot. He suddenly extended his hand.

With a sickening crunch, he crushed the young eunuch's skull, killing him instantly.

After venting his inner torment, cruelty, and rage, Xiao Renjie gradually calmed down.

The old eunuch waved his hand, signaling for the other young eunuchs to come forward, clean up the bloodstains, and remove the headless body.

"Your Majesty, is it the same as before?" The old eunuch offered a clean white cloth, speaking in a hushed tone.

Xiao Renjie wiped the bloodstains from his face. "Kill them all. Not one should be left alive."

"Yes, Your Majesty. I will take care of it immediately." The old eunuch bowed respectfully and turned to leave.

Before long, the air outside was filled with the sounds of abrupt, anguished screams.

Xiao Renjie rubbed his temples, his brow furrowing deeply.

"Why? My rank keeps rising, but I'm growing more susceptible to His influence. What in the world is this thing...?"

After pondering for a while, Xiao Renjie picked up the shattered mirror and muttered, "Magic mirror... no, divine mirror, do you know what the voice in my head is? I now control the three great kingdoms. Whatever demonic insect cultivation method you want, I can get it for you!"

Chu Xuan clicked his tongue in annoyance.

I don't know anything about this.

The mirror remained calm and unresponsive, showing no sign of reaction.

Xiao Renjie sighed heavily and placed the mirror aside. After a brief rest, he resumed his cultivation.

...

"The sensation of lightness is clearly a sign that the upper realms are beginning to attract me. It's the prelude to ascension. Once my level reaches its full potential, ascension will undoubtedly follow. However, the Cave World has no sky, only a stone dome. How am I supposed to ascend?"

It seemed that Xiao Renjie would have no choice but to abandon his physical body and ascend in soul form. But then, what was the strange voice tormenting Xiao Renjie, and why did it urge him to descend underground instead of toward the higher dome?

Chu Xuan thought for a long time, but could not figure out the reasoning behind it. Perhaps it was simply a matter of the unique circumstances in the Cave World.

As an outsider, there was little point in overthinking it. The best course of action was simply to continue observing. After all, Xiao Renjie would inevitably ascend one day. At that time, the answer would be revealed.

Chu Xuan scanned Xiao Renjie's body with his spiritual sense. It was clear that he still had quite a distance to go before his energy was fully charged.

With that, Chu Xuan withdrew his spiritual sense and returned to the Tea House.

Neon Garment Island, Heavenly Human Tower.

This was the number one restaurant on Neon Garment Island.

It was said that the mastermind behind the establishment was the Deity Transformation Ancestor, Yun Feijian, from the Divine Sword Sect. For this reason, very few people dared to stir up trouble here.

The head chef of Heavenly Human Tower was a Golden Core cultivator, who had been refining the art of spiritual cuisine since his childhood. No matter how unpleasant or unappetizing the spiritual ingredients might be, after his cooking, they would turn into exquisite delicacies that could rival the finest dishes in the mortal world.

Many cultivators, aware of their own mediocre talents and their inability to break through to higher realms, decided it was better to enjoy their remaining lifespan by indulging in life's pleasures. The exquisite cuisine at Heavenly Human Tower catered perfectly to these cultivators.

As a result, Heavenly Human Tower was always bustling with activity, with people coming and going.

On the recommendation of He Zhao, Chu Xuan also decided to visit Heavenly Human Tower and sample the food. He chose a window-side seat and ordered several of the restaurant's signature dishes.

While waiting, he casually listened in on the conversations of other cultivators around him. The cultivators dining at Heavenly Human Tower mostly discussed trivial matters. They didn't go out of their way to whisper or avoid being overheard by others.

Chu Xuan listened attentively and quickly picked up on numerous bits of gossip. For example, a certain Nascent Soul cultivator had just taken his ninety-second concubine. Or how a Golden Core cultivator in the late stage, with the help of his Deity Transformation Ancestor, had successfully advanced to the Nascent Soul stage. Such matters were endlessly abundant.

"Hmm? Someone is actually talking about the Eight Extremes Palace?"

Chu Xuan couldn't help but chuckle softly.

It made sense, though.

He had been in the East Third Ring for a while now. The emergence of the Eight Extremes Palace in the South Third Ring was a major event, and it had undoubtedly already spread here.

He listened carefully, but soon realized that not many were speaking about events that had actually happened. Most of what was being discussed was hearsay.

Some claimed that all the Deity Transformation experts in the South Third Ring had died within the Eight Extremes Palace. Others said that all eight sects' inheritances within the Eight Extremes Palace had been claimed by a single individual. Some even claimed that the hall concealed terrible demons and evildoers, and that one day, the Shattered Star Sea would be swallowed up by these sinister creatures.

Chu Xuan couldn't help but shake his head with a smile. Not long after, the restaurant's signature dishes were brought to his table.

Chu Xuan picked up his jade chopsticks and began to savor the food.

He Zhao stood beside him, respectfully saying, "Senior, I followed your instructions and searched through in Neon Garment Market, but there are no closed shops at the moment. The shops that are still operating require a considerable price to acquire…"

Chu Xuan nodded in understanding.

This was perfectly normal.

It was impossible to expect to stumble upon a bankrupt shop for sale at rock-bottom prices just after arriving. Such "main character halo" scenarios were clearly not suited for him.

He casually replied, "Let's wait a bit. This matter is not urgent. Tell me more about the situations in the different districts."

He Zhao nodded and was about to speak when suddenly, an elderly and hearty laugh came from the side.

"Ah, isn't this Fellow Daoist He? What a pleasant surprise!"

Chapter 464: Truly Audacious!

Chu Xuan glanced over and saw two individuals, an elderly man and a younger one.

The elderly man was Ning Tai, who, despite his age, no longer showed the signs of decline that had marked him before. Though old, he appeared vigorous, with eyes that, though cloudy, still sparkled with hope.

Standing beside Ning Tai was a handsome young cultivator, clearly in the late stages of the Golden Core realm. Without needing further clarification, Chu Xuan quickly deduced that this young man was likely Ning Tai's grandson.

Rising to his feet, Chu Xuan gave a slight bow. "What a pleasant surprise, fellow Daoist Ning. I never expected to find you here at Heavenly Human Tower, enjoying the cuisine. Truly, it seems fate has brought us together. Is this person beside you...?"

Ning Tai beamed with joy. "Yes, indeed! This is my grandson, Ning Wangyuan! Wangyuan, quickly greet this senior, Fellow Daoist He. If it weren't for his fire bee, you wouldn't have had such a smooth journey, and you certainly wouldn't have been able to keep your shop."

Ning Wangyuan immediately bowed, his expression sincere. "Thank you, Fellow Daoist He! From now on, you will be my benefactor!"

Chu Xuan couldn't help but smile. Already calling him a benefactor? That was a bit premature.

Ning Tai continued enthusiastically, "We're here to celebrate at Heavenly Human Tower as well. Would it be alright if we joined you, Fellow Daoist? I hope we're not disturbing anything important you might be doing."

Chu Xuan smiled and nodded. "Not at all, please, take a seat. He Zhao, has the attendant bring over another chair."

"Yes, Master." He Zhao nodded respectfully.

Before long, Chu Xuan, Ning Tai, and Ning Wangyuan were enjoying their meals and conversing freely.

He Zhao stood quietly to the side, remaining silent. His cultivation was only at the Foundation Establishment stage, far beneath the level of these three, so he didn't dare to speak.

The conversation spanned a vast range of topics, from the distant south to the northern seas, covering every art and practice of cultivation. They even delved into the subjects of demonic talismans, evil pills, and poison insects. These topics, on the territory of the Divine Sword Sect, were typically regarded as heretical and dangerous.

Suddenly, Ning Tai chuckled. "Fellow Daoist, since you've come from the South Third Ring, you must have heard about a major event there, haven't you?"

Chu Xuan nodded. "Many people here at Heavenly Human Tower have been discussing it. I've heard something about the Eight Extremes Palace, yes? I've been delayed in the East Third Ring, so I'm not entirely clear on the details of what happened."

Ning Tai glanced at Chu Xuan a few more times, unable to discern any sign of deception, before continuing, "I also heard about it from an old friend who had just returned from doing business in the South Third Ring. Apparently, an ancient body-refining sect's ruins appeared in the South Third Ring.

"On that day, many cultivators were sucked underground, even some Deity Transformation experts couldn't escape. Later, some of the survivors who emerged spoke of strange and malevolent beings inside the ancient ruins. It's said that several Deity Transformation cultivators perished in the depths."

Ning Tai sighed, "Now, the South Third Ring is in utter chaos, with battles raging everywhere as everyone fights for territory."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly.

After all, Yellow Spring and Moon True Master had both perished in the Eight Extremes Palace. Black Wind True Master had never involved himself from the beginning, and that had allowed him to escape harm.

As for White Bone True Master, he had probably been randomly transported to the South Third Ring. If not, the South Third Ring wouldn't be in such turmoil—it would have already been unified by Black Wind's overwhelming force.

Ning Wangyuan, curious, asked, "I've heard of the Eight Extremes Palace. They say it was one of the most prominent body-refining sects of the ancient world. It had eight sect inheritances, which should all have appeared by now, right?"

Ning Tai shook his head, "I don't know about that. My old friend didn't witness it personally, so his details weren't very clear."

At this moment, a laugh came from the next table.

"I know a little about the news of the Eight Extremes Palace's emergence!"

The voice was loud enough to immediately attract the attention of many cultivators.

Chu Xuan turned toward the source of the voice and saw a Nascent Soul cultivator with a full beard. He didn't recognize the man and couldn't tell if the person had used any form of disguise.

The bearded cultivator chuckled and cupped his hands. "I'm Zhang Ziheng, a cultivator from the South Third Ring. Had I not happened to be far from Desolate Island that day, I too would have been sucked into the Eight Extremes Palace!"

Some nearby cultivators whispered, "I've also heard that the Eight Extremes Palace is located beneath Desolate Island. This person's words should be true."

Zhang Ziheng sighed dramatically. "Indeed, there are malevolent beings inside the Eight Extremes Palace. They are called Corpse Demons by the Palace's former cultivators. The inheritance within the Eight Extremes Palace is incomplete, with only six gates available. Those who cannot obtain all of the inheritances are trapped inside, forced to fight the Corpse Demons until they die."

Ning Wangyuan was astonished. "But if no one has ever made it out alive, how do you know what's inside?"

Zhang Ziheng smiled. "Don't be in such a hurry, young friend. Naturally, there were survivors. But they didn't leave through the usual means. They escaped via a teleportation array."

The surrounding cultivators nodded in understanding. "Ah, that makes sense."

Zhang Ziheng laughed heartily. "I've also heard an interesting piece of news, and I thought I'd share it with all of you fellow Daoists."

The other cultivators leaned forward, eager to hear more.

Zhang Ziheng smiled knowingly. "I asked a few of the survivors who came out, and they all claimed that a Nascent Soul-level demonic talisman master named Liu Zhenxiong shone brilliantly inside the Eight Extremes Palace. He even severely wounded the Moon True Master, who is the ancestor of the Moon Society in the South Third Ring, in a one-on-one battle."

At this point, the cultivators all gasped in shock.

"A Nascent Soul cultivator actually managed to severely injure a Deity Transformation expert!"

Zhang Ziheng continued, "And the teleportation array, it was Liu Zhenxiong who repaired it. But, he charged a toll to everyone who wanted to use it. If they didn't pay up, they couldn't leave through the teleportation array. In the end, even a Deity Transformation cultivator was extorted by Liu Zhenxiong."

Ning Wangyuan and He Zhao both had their mouths wide open.

"What?! A Deity Transformation cultivator was extorted?!"

"That Liu Zhenxiong is incredibly bold!"

Ning Tai clicked his tongue in admiration, "This person is not only powerful but knows how to seize every opportunity to profit. Wangyuan, remember this kind of person—he'll live a long and prosperous life."

Ning Wangyuan nodded eagerly. He couldn't help but develop a deep admiration for the mysterious Liu Zhenxiong, the talisman master he had never met.

Chu Xuan also joined in the praise, "This Liu Zhenxiong is truly audacious! He even dares to extort a Deity Transformation cultivator! If it were me, I would never dare to do something so reckless."

Zhang Ziheng cupped his hands and then chuckled, "I run a spirit beast shop in the Western District of Neon Garment Market. Fellow Daoists, if you're ever free, do come by and show some support. My shop has great bargains, and many have purchased demonic beasts with mutated bloodlines. Don't miss out, come by when you can!"

The cultivators all collectively rolled their eyes and dispersed in laughter.

Chu Xuan also couldn't help but laugh. No wonder he was so eager to speak up earlier—it was just a clever attempt to promote his business.

Once the other cultivators returned to their seats, Ning Tai casually said, "Running a spirit beast business is quite lucrative. Does Fellow Daoist have any particular skills? You know, living on this Neishang Island isn't easy."

Chu Xuan nodded, "That's true. Without a shop, there's no way to earn spirit stones. Even if one has mountains of gold and silver, it'll eventually be spent. Unfortunately, I've already had someone check, and there are no shops currently closing down. Buying an already-operating shop is too expensive, and the owners might not even be willing to sell."

Ning Tai laughed heartily, "Those people are sharp, of course, they won't sell low-priced. But I do know a friend who is planning to move to the North Third Ring. He wants to sell his shop. He leased it for a hundred years all at once, and now there are still over fifty years left. I can help you negotiate, and I'm sure you'll be able to get it for a good price!"

Chapter 465: New Shop

Chu Xuan was slightly surprised. Ning Tai was willing to help him proactively. Could there be some ulterior motive behind this?

At the thought, Chu Xuan couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. Not everyone was scheming to such a degree. It was normal for Ning Tai to want to return the favor, especially after Chu Xuan had helped rescue his grandson, Ning Wangyuan. There was no hidden agenda here.

Chu Xuan cupped his hands and said, "Then I'll leave it to you, Fellow Daoist Ning."

Ning Tai waved his hand dismissively, "It's no trouble at all. Fellow Daoist helped me save Wangyuan, so this is what I should do. If anything happens to me in the future, I hope Fellow Daoist can take care of my grandson."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly, "I will help him within my abilities."

Both sides parted ways amicably. After a hearty meal, Ning Tai and his grandson, Ning Wangyuan, stood up and bid their farewells with a clasped fist.

Once they were out of earshot, Ning Wangyuan whispered, "Grandfather, what level of cultivation is this He Liang?"

Ning Tai nodded thoughtfully, "Probably mid-stage Nascent Soul."

Ning Wangyuan frowned. "Ah? That doesn't seem very strong. I noticed you seemed interested in befriending him."

Ning Tai smiled, "Wangyuan, you need to understand, not everyone reveals their true strength on the surface."

Ning Wangyuan was taken aback. "So, you can tell he's hiding something?"

Ning Tai shook his head with a smile, "Not exactly. I'm no Deity Transformation expert, how could I see through the true strength of someone at the same cultivation level?"

Ning Wangyuan was puzzled. "Then why are you willing to pass on Elder Zhu's shop to him at a low price?"

Ning Tai chuckled, "I just feel that this person is extraordinary, though I can't pinpoint why. I've met many people in my life, and those like He Liang, I've seen before. Without exception, they live a long time. For cultivators like us, living long means we have the chance to ascend to higher paths."

Ning Wangyuan fell silent, pondering his grandfather's words.

Ning Tai laughed heartily, "Come on, your talisman path still needs more practice. I'm shameless enough to convince Old Ghost Song to teach you for ten years. Go study under him well."

"Yes," Ning Wangyuan said gratefully, nodding in agreement.

...

Meanwhile, Chu Xuan had roughly figured out Ning Tai's intentions.

It was clear that Ning Tai was hoping that, after he passed away, Chu Xuan would look after his grandson.

"Poor parents everywhere…" Chu Xuan sighed softly.

Though Ning Tai was not Ning Wangyuan's father, his concern was even deeper than that of many parents.

Chu Xuan then took out a storage bag and tossed it over.

He Zhao quickly caught it, and as his spiritual sense entered the bag, a look of delight appeared on his face.

"Senior, do you want me to…?"

Chu Xuan smiled lightly. "Inside, there's a jade slip with spiritual sense; it contains the list of the required spiritual herbs. Help me purchase the herbs and pick a few loyal and capable cultivators. In the future, when I start managing the shop, one or two people won't be enough."

He Zhao excitedly nodded. "Yes! I will not disappoint Senior's trust!"

He bowed deeply to Chu Xuan and quickly left, clearly heading off to use his connections.

Such matters were best left to He Zhao, allowing Chu Xuan not to waste time on trivialities. After all, every profession had its own specialized path. He Zhao might even do a better job than he could.

He had also placed a Hidden Bee on He Zhao as a precaution, just in case.

He wasn't worried about He Zhao betraying him now, but human hearts were always a mystery. Just because someone didn't betray you today didn't mean they wouldn't do so in the future. If He Zhao were ever coerced or bribed into revealing things, Chu Xuan needed a way to sever ties immediately.

At the end of the day, his own safety and interests were paramount. Everyone else was simply a tool to be used and discarded as needed.

With these thoughts in mind, Chu Xuan ordered a few more signature dishes and, with a jade chopstick in hand, began to eat heartily.

When life is at its peak, enjoy it to the fullest, and never let the golden cup sit idle before the moon.

With delectable food before him, he couldn't help but indulge.

...

A few days later, the door to the Tea House was knocked on.

After a short while, Chu Xuan opened the door to find He Zhao standing respectfully outside.

"Senior He, Elder Ning has already negotiated the price for you. The shop can be acquired for half of its original price," He Zhao reported.

Upon hearing this, Chu Xuan smiled and nodded.

In the prosperous Neon Garment Market, the more prime the location, the higher the cost. Ning Tai had managed to secure a 50% discount, clearly saving him a substantial amount on rent.

He Zhao respectfully presented a storage bag. "Senior, this contains the spiritual herbs you asked me to buy. I've procured about two-thirds of them. The remaining ones either haven't reached the right age or don't meet the required quality, so they will take a little more time."

Chu Xuan probed with his spiritual sense and briefly scanned the contents. He nodded slightly. Some of the medicinal herbs were indeed impossible to use, but many of the mainstream Nascent Soul-grade pills, like the Black Dragon Pill, could still be crafted.

That was fine.

Black Dragon Pills were among the most commonly used, with huge demand. Nearly every Nascent Soul cultivator kept a stockpile, and the pills were consumed quickly.

He could simply take a low-profit, high-volume approach. After all, his success rate in refining the Black Dragon Pill, a low-grade Nascent Soul pill, was already quite high. Even with thin margins, he would still make a substantial profit.

"Also, the loyal and capable cultivators you asked me to find, I've located them as well."

He Zhao continued, "Do you want to meet them first to assess their abilities, or should we head to the shop first?"

Chu Xuan nodded. "Let's go to the shop first. Elder Ning is waiting for me there."

A short while later, the two arrived at the shop in the western district of Neon Garment Market.

"Green Pill Pavilion…"

Chu Xuan stared at the plaque, chuckling softly.

Inside the Green Pill Pavilion stood three figures.

Two were familiar to him: Ning Tai and his grandson, Ning Wangyuan.

The third was a tall male cultivator, dressed in a pure white daoist robe, with a sword embroidered on his chest—likely a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Divine Sword Sect.

Seeing Chu Xuan, Ning Tai immediately stepped forward, smiling broadly. "Fellow Daoist He! What do you think of the Green Pill Pavilion?"

"My old friend has entrusted everything to me," he continued. "If you're satisfied, we can sign the contract now, with the witness of this fellow Daoist Cheng from the Divine Sword Sect."

The Divine Sword Sect cultivator gave a slight bow to Chu Xuan. "I am Cheng Xin, disciple of Flying Sword True Master."

Chu Xuan returned the bow. "I am He Liang, a Nascent Soul Pill Master."

He smiled and nodded. "This place looks good. Thanks to Elder Ning for negotiating the price."

Ning Tai laughed heartily. "No need to thank me! It's all thanks to your fire bee!"

Cheng Xin looked surprised. "The fire bee that Master Li just acquired—it's yours? Master Li always flaunts that fire bee in front of my master. Even we Nascent Soul cultivators have seen it. The bee is entirely black and red, like a tiger among bees. Truly a top-tier collector's item, though it doesn't have long to live. Master Li has been trying everything to extend its life."

Chu Xuan smiled lightly. "It's good that Master Li likes it. As for methods to prolong its life… that's something he'll have to figure out on his own. I don't know either."

Chapter 466: Creepy Sounds

Soon, Chu Xuan reviewed the contract and then signed his name with a flourish.

The contract was now complete, and the terms were clear.

Cheng Xin gave a bow to both Chu Xuan and Ning Tai, taking the contract with him as he left.

Ning Tai smiled. "Congratulations, Fellow Daoist He. My little Bug Studio isn't far from here; we can visit each other often from now on."

Chu Xuan nodded with a smile. "Naturally."

Ning Tai and Ning Wangyuan then bade their farewells and left.

Chu Xuan instructed He Zhao to call in the few cultivators he'd found for him. He then stood before the plaque and focused. Spiritual Qi surged from his body, and within moments, he had altered the three characters on the plaque.

"Black Pill Pavilion," he said with a slight smile. "Now, this sounds much better."

Not long after, He Zhao returned, leading three men into the newly renamed Black Pill Pavilion.

Chu Xuan glanced at the trio. The leader was a Golden Core cultivator, while the other two were Foundation Establishment cultivators.

Before He Zhao could introduce them, Chu Xuan waved a hand. "Let them speak for themselves. Name, background, cultivation level."

With that, he released his spiritual sense, which spread out and enveloped every inch of the space within the Black Pill Pavilion.

The three cultivators immediately felt as though they were in the presence of a terrifying beast, one capable of devouring them at any moment. The pressure was so intense that they almost knelt.

The Golden Core cultivator took a deep breath and forced himself to step forward, bowing deeply. "I am Tao Zheng, a Golden Core alchemist from Red Lake Island. I am at your service, senior."

The other two Foundation Establishment cultivators followed suit.

"I am Kong Zhan, a Foundation Establishment alchemist."

"I am Jiao Yu, also a Foundation Establishment alchemist."

After they finished speaking, Chu Xuan withdrew his spiritual sense.

Instantly, the overwhelming pressure vanished, leaving the three cultivators feeling as if they had been freed from an immense weight. They now looked at Chu Xuan with a deep sense of reverence.

A highly skilled alchemist was bound to possess a formidable spiritual sense, and it was clear that this "Senior He" was far beyond their expectations.

Chu Xuan nodded slightly.

While the three spoke, he had already used his spiritual sense to scrutinize them thoroughly. Apart from not probing their souls, he had even seen every detail of their undergarments. If they had come with ulterior motives, they would certainly have been rattled under the pressure of his spiritual sense, their minds in disarray.

But the three showed only instinctive fear, with no hidden intentions. Clearly, He Zhao had done his job well, and these three were indeed clean.

However, loyalty and competence were traits that would only reveal themselves over time.

"You've managed to hold up under just one-tenth of my spiritual sense," Chu Xuan remarked casually. "That's a good start. I'll give you three months for now. Do well, and you'll be allowed to stay. Do poorly, and you'll pack your things and leave."

The three cultivators were thrilled, repeatedly nodding in acknowledgment. Working alongside such an esteemed alchemist and learning from him would surely improve their own skills in alchemy over time. For many young alchemists, it was a great honor to serve under someone so accomplished.

"These spiritual herbs, arrange them by category as instructed. Some need to be dried, others ground into powder, and some should have their stems and leaves removed, keeping only the roots."

Chu Xuan tossed a storage bag toward them.

"Understood." Tao Zheng and the others bowed respectfully.

Chu Xuan then called He Zhao over, giving him further instructions. "Make sure you're keeping an ear to the ground for any important news. If anything major happens on Neon Garment Island or the surrounding islands like Red Lake Island, report it to me through the communication jade slips. And also, keep a close watch on the rumors surrounding the Eight Extremes Palace."

He Zhao responded obediently, "Yes! Please don't worry, senior."

Chu Xuan nodded as He Zhao departed.

This man seemed quite capable. If he continued to perform well, offering him a chance to break through to the Golden Core stage would not be difficult.

Soon enough, the cultivators on Neon Garment Island noticed a new shop opening in the western district of Neon Garment Market.

Black Pill Pavilion.

The shop was owned by a highly skilled Nascent Soul alchemist. Many rare and hard-to-find Nascent Soul-grade pills could be easily refined by him. Even top-tier Nascent Soul pills were a breeze.

In less than a month, the name of alchemist He Liang spread throughout Neon Garment Island.

Even cultivators from nearby islands, including those from Red Lake Island, came to pay their respects, bringing formulas and materials in hand, along with enough spirit stones, hoping that Master He would personally refine pills for them.

These custom-made pills were unlike the standard ones like the Xuánlóng Pill, which were common and easy to find. They were rare, unusual, and highly sought after.

This was exactly why Chu Xuan enjoyed the alchemist profession so much.

Every day, precious pill formulas were handed to him, along with the necessary materials, and spirit stones were even pre-paid. It couldn't get more comfortable than this.

Blue Star, Water Curtain Cave.

Chu Xuan exhaled a long breath and retracted his aura, feeling a dull headache. Although he no longer spent every day focused solely on body refining, dividing his time to also practice alchemy, the progress still seemed unusually slow. Could it be that the black magic whale meat had run out?

He shook his head and decided to focus his spiritual sense on the cave world. He would take it as a chance to relax and observe the unfolding events.

…

In the King's Palace of the Myriad Insects Kingdom.

At the center of the palace, a towering white spire reached from the ground all the way to the rocky dome above, its height a striking marvel. This was the highest structure in all the Three Great Kingdoms, unmatched by any other. The residents of the capital city could see this massive tower from their homes every day. Some even made pilgrimages to the tower, praising their powerful monarch.

Now, with the legendary feat of unifying the three great kingdoms, Xiao Renjie's status had been elevated to nearly divine levels in the hearts of many of the people. To most, he was no longer a mere man but a figure akin to the omnipotent gods of legend!

At this moment, high within the tower, Xiao Renjie sat with his eyes closed, deeply immersed in cultivation. Surrounding him were seven insect demons, their eyes shut in quiet repose. The previous six had already been elevated to the Starry Realm, and now only the last one, the Azure Fire Dragon, remained on the cusp of reaching that level.

Xiao Renjie had always carried a strong premonition. Once the Azure Fire Dragon reached the Starry Realm, he himself would ascend! From that moment, he would no longer be human, but a god!

"Damn…" Xiao Renjie suddenly snapped his eyes open, quickly reaching out to touch the heavy stone ceiling. The cold sensation immediately eased his inner turmoil, and the strange voice that had been echoing in his mind began to fade.

With a long sigh, Xiao Renjie leaned back, allowing himself a moment of calm. "As I suspected," he muttered to himself. "The closer I get to the ground, or even deeper underground, the louder the voice becomes, eventually even altering my thoughts. But as long as I stay away from the surface, the voice will gradually weaken. If I can touch the dome, that voice will have no choice but to retreat."

A smile of realization spread across Xiao Renjie's face.

This was the true reason he had ordered the construction of the great white tower. The world believed it was a monument to commemorate his unprecedented achievement of uniting the three kingdoms. Little did they know, he was actually constructing it to escape the strange voice in his mind.

Chapter 467: A Scam!

After a brief rest, Xiao Renjie calmed his mind and resumed his cultivation.

The power of an Insect Master came from the insect demons. As the insect demons advanced in rank, they would feed back into their master, elevating their master's level as well. However, even with the blood essence feeding back, time was needed to refine and absorb it.

Xiao Renjie was currently undergoing this process.

One day, two days… a month, two months…

His aura grew stronger with each passing day until one day, his aura reached its peak.

Even though Chu Xuan had been paying close attention to Xiao Renjie's changes, it was difficult to describe the sensation. However, he could clearly tell that Xiao Renjie had reached the apex of his current stage. There was no further ascension possible. Only ascension itself remained.

Buzz, buzz, buzz!

Xiao Renjie's robes flared wildly as if caught in an invisible wind. The seven insect demons around him seemed to sense something and opened their eyes, locking their gazes on their master.

"I've ascended! I'm going to ascend!" Xiao Renjie laughed loudly, his black hair waving wildly in the air, like countless black snakes writhing.

"Huh?"

Suddenly, Chu Xuan, who had been observing the situation in the cave world, noticed something unusual.

He saw that the first insect demon within Xiao Renjie's circle began to glow with a white light. The glow leaked out through the insect's exoskeleton, becoming denser and brighter by the second. Before long, the insect seemed to transform into a glowing orb, almost like a small sun.

Boom!

With a deep, rumbling explosion, the insect was utterly obliterated. Its exoskeleton, flesh, organs, and fluids scattered everywhere. All that remained in its place was a ball of white light.

Xiao Renjie was stunned beyond measure. Before he could react, the other insect demons followed suit, exploding into white light one after another.

"What… what's going on?"

Xiao Renjie's face and hair were splattered with the internal organs and flesh of his own insect demons. He was completely at a loss for what was happening.

The notes left by his ancestors only mentioned that once one reached the appropriate realm, ascension would naturally occur. There had been no mention of anything like this!

"These are all souls... My guess was correct. It must be a soul ascension."

Chu Xuan muttered to himself with a thoughtful expression.

To Xiao Renjie, the bright white light looked like mere light, but to Chu Xuan, it was unmistakably the souls of the seven insect demons. After all, his spiritual soul was exceptionally strong—far beyond Xiao Renjie, who had never bothered to train his soul as an Insect Master.

"Thinking about it, Xiao Renjie should also..."

Chu Xuan glanced at Xiao Renjie. Sure enough, the white light began to pour out from his nostrils, ears, and mouth. Soon after, it began to spill from every pore of his body.

Xiao Renjie was filled with terror.

"No... no... How could this happen?!"

His body swelled like an inflated balloon, no matter how hard he struggled, nothing could stop the expansion. Before long, there was a loud bang, and Xiao Renjie's body exploded into a shower of flesh and blood. Only a massive ball of white light remained where he once stood.

Below the tower, the residents were equally shocked. They couldn't comprehend why blood and flesh were falling from the sky, especially from the "Holy Tower" that had just materialized in mid-air!

The crowd knelt, praying desperately, pleading for the gods' forgiveness.

Inside the tower, Chu Xuan suddenly felt an invisible force pulling him. His gaze sharpened.

"The pulling force... it's here."

He immediately focused his spiritual sense on the shard of the mirror, enveloping it. As a result, the shard began to levitate, following Xiao Renjie closely.

Over time, his spiritual sense had grown significantly stronger. He was no longer the same person who had once struggled to move a mere shard of a mirror. Now, controlling it to float, move, or fly was no problem.

However, this still consumed a significant amount of energy. But he had already prepared medicinal pills. Once his spiritual sense was drained, he would replenish it with those pills.

Sure enough, as the pulling force intensified, Xiao Renjie and the souls of the seven insect demons were drawn upwards, as if they were about to pierce through the rock ceiling and travel to some distant place.

"So this is the ascension power," Chu Xuan mused.

As he watched, Xiao Renjie was pulled higher, gradually passing through the rocky ceiling. What was strange was that the ceiling seemed to soften at this moment, with visible holes appearing, like coal briquettes burning and crumbling.

Chu Xuan let out a soft hum of surprise, immediately manipulating the mirror shard to follow.

Move forward, move forward, move forward...

He wasn't sure how long he had been moving through the rocky ceiling when suddenly, an enormous, boundless space appeared before him. The space was dark and infinite—nothing could be seen, nothing could be felt.

Chu Xuan refrained from expanding his spiritual sense, maintaining his caution. He couldn't shake the feeling that some vast and ancient being was lurking somewhere in this endless darkness. If he carelessly unleashed his spiritual sense, he feared he would inadvertently disturb this creature.

As expected.

When Xiao Renjie and the souls of the seven insect demons drew closer, the white light they emitted illuminated the surrounding darkness. Before them, a white ground, wrinkled and creased, appeared.

Chu Xuan furrowed his brow. This place... the more he looked at it, the stranger it seemed.

Xiao Renjie and the seven insect demons were still being drawn forward by the force. After a while, a dark, ominous opening appeared in the distance, surrounded by jagged, sharp stones. They were arranged in a regular, symmetrical pattern.

But it wasn't until they got closer, aided by the glow of the souls, that Chu Xuan realized the true nature of the opening. It was the gaping maw of a giant insect! He had mistaken it for a cave entrance!

Inside the enormous mouth, a powerful suction force was still pulling Xiao Renjie and the insect demons' souls, drawing them toward it.

Xiao Renjie, still conscious, struggled desperately, but the pulling force was too strong for him to resist.

Chu Xuan was taken aback. Now he understood.

This wasn't the "ascension force" at all—it was the swallowing power emanating from the mouth of a giant insect!

For insect masters and insect demons below a certain level, they were likely too insignificant, like ants, for the giant insect to notice. Or perhaps the insect could sense them but chose not to harvest them. But once they reached a certain level, the insect would come to feed. What was touted as "ascension" was nothing more than a scam!

Realizing this, Chu Xuan immediately activated his spiritual sense, halting the shard of the mirror from being drawn in. He pushed it in the opposite direction, urging it to move quickly away. He needed to leave this place.

Once the shard of the mirror was swallowed by the giant insect, it would likely be lost forever. That was something he could never allow to happen.

However, just as he activated his spiritual sense, the sluggish giant insect beneath him suddenly seemed to sense something. It moved, its vast body shifting with terrifying speed.

Chu Xuan frowned slightly. His intuition had been correct. The giant insect could indeed detect spiritual sense.

As the insect stirred, strange rustling sounds filled the vast space around him. Dozens of insect demons, each with a head the size of a human's, emerged from the shadows. Their transparent wings fluttered rapidly as they surged toward him.

In the blink of an eye, they surrounded the shard of the mirror, which was under Chu Xuan's control with his spiritual sense.

Their razor-sharp mandibles clicked and clacked, sounding as though they would tear the shard of the mirror into pieces at any moment!

Chapter 468: The Appearance of the Corpse Puppets

Chu Xuan's brow furrowed deeply.

He immediately activated his spiritual sense, shifting and maneuvering through the swarm of insect demons. Their mandibles, though sharp, were not nearly strong enough to crush the Myriad Realm Mirror. His main concern was that the giant insect would swallow the shard of the mirror. Thus, he needed to escape as quickly as possible.

However, the swarm of insects seemed endless. The constant conflict only served to hasten the awakening of the giant insect. If the insect fully awakened, the shard of the Myriad Realm Mirror might truly be drawn in.

Chu Xuan glanced back and saw that Xiao Renjie and the seven insect demons' souls had already been swallowed by the giant insect's mouth. In just a few moments, they were consumed, without even the chance to scream. The mighty king of the Wan Chong Tribe, the legendary ruler who unified the three great tribes, had died in such a suffocating manner.

Chu Xuan's brow deepened. He quickly devised a plan. Since the giant insect had reacted to his spiritual sense, causing the swarm to chase him, perhaps if he retracted his spiritual sense, the insects would lose their target. However, he wasn't sure if this would work. Still, there was no other option at the moment. He had to try.

At that instant, Chu Xuan withdrew all his spiritual sense. The shard of the mirror, no longer under his control, fell to the ground with a soft thud, lost amidst the surrounding debris.

The insect demons, confused, hadn't reacted immediately. The shard vanished into the countless remains, hidden from view. The insects buzzed angrily, their wings flapping violently as they scattered the ancient bones everywhere. The clinking of bones echoed in the massive space, breaking the eerie silence.

Roar... Roar!

The giant insect let out a series of low growls, clearly displeased. Its massive body swung around violently, crushing several insect demons that hadn't reacted quickly enough into pulp. The remaining insects quickly retracted their wings and clung to the rock walls, too afraid to make any move.

For a moment, the vast space fell silent, as still as the grave. Not even a pin could be heard falling.

After a long pause, the giant insect seemed to calm down, once again sinking into a deep sleep.

The shard of the Myriad Realm Mirror, meanwhile, had become buried beneath the remains and rubble. It seemed as though it would never see the light of day again.

Chu Xuan gazed at the pitch-black space and sighed softly.

This was the best outcome he could hope for. If the giant insect had swallowed the shard, it would have been lost forever. Now, buried under debris and rubble, there was still a chance to escape.

However, he could not extend his spiritual sense right now. Doing so might provoke the giant insect. If he wanted to leave, he would need to wait for the right opportunity.

At least, this was not the time to act.

Chu Xuan wasn't bothered by the situation in the slightest. He had already gained what he wanted from the cave world. He had even obtained three different cultivation methods for diamond-level insect demons. This was akin to receiving three secret techniques for cultivating Gu insects at the Deity Transformation stage. In the cultivation world, such methods were considered top-tier, guarded secrets passed down only within elite sects!

"Let it be for now. Perhaps there will be a change in the future," Chu Xuan mused to himself. "After all, my lifespan is long, and I can afford to wait."

He smiled lightly and withdrew his spiritual sense.

...

One year later.

On Neon Garment Island, in the Black Pill Hall.

"Success."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly, casually tapping the alchemy furnace. Three pills, glowing with blue light, gently floated out and into a jade vial, enveloped by his spiritual sense.

Tao Zheng, standing to the side, watched in awe.

With another wave of his hand, Chu Xuan sent the vial flying into Tao Zheng's hands.

Tao Zheng, who had been assisting Chu Xuan for quite some time, understood the unspoken communication and hurriedly opened the door to the alchemy room. He respectfully made a gesture toward Zhang Ziheng, who was waiting outside.

"Senior, the pills are ready."

Zhang Ziheng was overjoyed. He cupped his hands in gratitude towards Chu Xuan. "Thank you, Fellow Daoist He! I've had several alchemists try to refine the Gathering Spirit Pill, but none were successful. To think that Fellow Daoist He succeeded in just three attempts! I cannot express my gratitude enough. In the future, should you need anything, just let me know! My spiritual beast shop will give Fellow Daoist He a special 20% discount on all purchases!"

Chu Xuan chuckled lightly. "Alright, I'll be sure to take you up on that, Zhang Fellow Daoist."

With the vial of pills in hand, Zhang Ziheng left with a beaming smile.

Chu Xuan's gaze turned to the other two jade vials in his hands, and a smile tugged at his lips.

Like the Great Soul Spirit Pill, the Gathering Spirit Pill was a direct enhancer of the soul. The power of the Gathering Spirit Pill was slightly weaker, but the materials required were far more common. There was no sign of any resistance from the body yet, so taking the Gathering Spirit Pill wasn't out of the question.

As for refining the pills three times, with only one success—that was, of course, just a performance for Zhang Ziheng. For the first two attempts, he had made sure not to let Tao Zheng enter, only letting out a faint sigh in the alchemy room, which was enough to signal the failure of the alchemy.

The reason for this was simple: if the success rate were too high, it would draw too much attention, potentially stealing business from other alchemists and stirring up jealousy. Maintaining a success rate that was neither too high nor too low, with an occasional flawless success, was the most prudent approach in dealing with people.

At that moment, Tao Zheng spoke respectfully. "Senior, Ning Wangyuan has arrived."

Chu Xuan nodded. "Oh? Let him in."

He casually waved his hand, clearing away the lingering trace of his alchemical work, and then made his way to the reception room in the Black Pill Pavilion.

Ning Wangyuan strode in with purpose, and upon seeing Chu Xuan, he respectfully bowed. "Wangyuan pays his respects to Senior He!"

He took a step forward and presented a spiritual sense jade slip with both hands.

"Senior, this is the pill that my grandfather entrusted me to have you refine."

Chu Xuan accepted the jade slip and pressed it to his forehead. In an instant, the pill formula appeared in his mind.

"This is a pill for a Gu insect to revert to its ancestral form?" Chu Xuan remarked.

Ning Wangyuan nodded vigorously. "Senior He, you truly are amazing! You saw right through it at a glance!"

He retrieved a storage bag and handed it over. "Inside are the materials and spirit stones. My grandfather said he trusts you."

Chu Xuan smiled and nodded, accepting the items without hesitation. It was no trouble to help Ning Tai refine a pill; as long as the spirit stones were provided, there were no issues.

"I often refine pills and rarely go out. Has anything of note happened recently on Neon Garment Island?" Chu Xuan asked suddenly.

He had sources like He Zhao for information, but that alone was not sufficient. Ning Tai and Ning Wangyuan had a good relationship with him now, so asking Ning Wangyuan didn't seem out of place. It was more like an elder casually chatting with a younger one.

Ning Wangyuan thought for a moment before replying, "Nothing major, just that the price of pills has gone up again. I also heard that a few corpse kings have surfaced in the market."

Chu Xuan smiled. "Corpse puppets? Doesn't the Divine Sword Sect care?"

Ning Wangyuan shook his head. "The Divine Sword Sect always turns a blind eye to this sort of thing. As long as people aren't parading corpse puppets or ghosts in front of their eyes, they don't intervene. After all, even if you're selling corpse puppets… you still have to pay taxes to the Divine Sword Sect."

He couldn't help but add, "I was so upset back then that I said a few things in public, and that's how I got on the bad side of that True Master Li from the Divine Sword Sect. Sigh…"

Chu Xuan couldn't help but chuckle softly. It was perfectly understandable. After all, who would want to be on bad terms with spirit stones?

"Anything else of importance?" Chu Xuan asked again.

Ning Wangyuan thought for a long while before suddenly exclaiming, "Ah, yes! You should remember the Nascent Soul cultivator from the Divine Sword Sect who was in charge of guarding this place—Cheng Xin? He's been replaced! A new cultivator has taken his place!"

Chapter 469: New Manager

Hearing this, Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow.

He certainly remembered Cheng Xin. It was Cheng Xin, as the representative of the Divine Sword Sect, who had witnessed the contract when Ning Tai helped him acquire the Black Pill Pavilion. Even the agreement had been completed under Cheng Xin's supervision.

Cheng Xin was quite formidable, likely at the mid-stage Nascent Soul level. So, why had he been replaced?

This news was not insignificant, but not entirely alarming either. The real question was what important information was hidden behind it.

As far as Chu Xuan knew, the Divine Sword Sect had two Deity Transformation cultivators: Yun Feijian and True Master Li. However, the sect controlled many islands. In order to guard against potential attacks from the Blood Cloud Cave's demonic cultivators, the Divine Sword Sect stationed one or two Nascent Soul cultivators at key islands for defense.

Usually, the task of these Nascent Soul cultivators was to ensure the arrays were intact. Even if enemies did attack, the arrays could hold them off long enough for reinforcements from the Divine Sword Sect to arrive.

Neon Garment Island was one of these islands under Nascent Soul protection. The Nascent Soul cultivator stationed here was like a regional governor, overseeing the defense of the island.

Chu Xuan asked, "Do you know who the new guard is going to be?"

Ning Wangyuan thought for a moment. "I believe his name is Lu Rong, a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator, and he has quite the reputation. However, he hasn't arrived yet; it will still be a few days before he takes over."

Chu Xuan pondered. Cheng Xin had been removed, and Lu Rong had yet to take office. That meant the island's defensive array would be left unguarded for the time being.

Without anyone in charge of the formation, Neon Garment Island was in a vulnerable state. If an outsider were to seize the opportunity…

Chu Xuan furrowed his brows. Just when things had calmed down, trouble was already on the horizon again.

Ning Wangyuan spoke softly, "My grandfather also asked me to tell Senior He that there may be trouble on Neon Garment Island in the coming days. He advised Senior to stay in your cave residence and avoid going outside."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. Ning Tai was a seasoned figure, so it was no surprise he had anticipated this. The fact that Ning Wangyuan had come specifically to warn him made Chu Xuan feel a little moved.

Chu Xuan clasped his hands in gratitude. "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Ning."

Ning Wangyuan gave a respectful nod before leaving.

Chu Xuan thought for a moment and then immediately instructed Tao Zheng, "Do not accept any more orders for now. Close the business for a few days."

Tao Zheng looked taken aback. "Senior, why? You've already made quite a name for yourself recently. The number of people coming to request pills is increasing by the day. There are still a few orders that are close to their deadlines."

Chu Xuan casually responded, "It doesn't matter if the deadline passes. If they still come to request the pills, we'll compensate them."

Tao Zheng was even more bewildered. Still come to request? What does that mean? But he didn't dare ask too much. Since Chu Xuan had already given the order, he could only follow it.

Before long, Chu Xuan returned to the cave residence he had rented, the Pinming Pavilion, carrying some precious materials. The more tedious tasks were left to Tao Zheng, Kong Zhan, and Jiao Yu to handle.

"Eh? Is Fellow Daoist He not here?"

Ji Canghai quickly approached but found Tao Zheng and the others hurriedly packing up.

Tao Zheng smiled wryly and explained Chu Xuan's instructions.

Ji Canghai frowned. "This is strange…"

The Black Pill Pavilion had only just begun to thrive, and it was in full swing. How could they suddenly decide to close it down? But since it was someone else's business, he didn't press the issue and left without saying more.

After Ji Canghai left, several other cultivators arrived at the Black Pill Pavilion, hoping to invite Chu Xuan for alchemy, only to be met with a closed door. Unable to do anything else, they had no choice but to seek someone else.

Tao Zheng sighed repeatedly, while Kong Zhan and Jiao Yu felt their hearts bleeding. These were all opportunities for wealth—just thrown away.

Kong Zhan murmured, "I really don't understand what Master He is thinking. Who would turn down spiritual stones?"

Jiao Yu nodded in agreement. "Exactly. I've had a feeling that Master He is a bit odd from the start."

Tao Zheng glared at them. "To be working at Black Pill Pavilion is an honor. You two need to remember what you should and shouldn't say! If anyone dares speak like that again, don't blame me for being rude!"

Kong Zhan and Jiao Yu trembled, nodding repeatedly.

...

Eight hundred and twenty miles to the north of Neon Garment Island, on an unnamed barren island.

Xue Yunzi stood quietly at the highest cliff, gazing southward. Beside him were two Nascent Soul disciples of Blood Cloud Cave.

Blood Cloud Cave only had six Nascent Soul cultivators. Three had mysteriously perished on Green Leaf Island. One remained stationed at Blood Cloud Island. The two beside Xue Yunzi were the only remaining Nascent Soul cultivators he could deploy.

"Master, there's something I don't understand," the tall and thin cultivator on the left could no longer keep quiet.

Xue Yunzi's voice was indifferent. "Speak."

The tall cultivator said solemnly, "That Cheng Xin made a secret deal with us for rare materials, but was discovered by the Divine Sword Sect, which is why he was replaced. But the new Nascent Soul cultivator hasn't arrived at Neon Garment Island yet. The defensive array on Neon Garment Island is now unguarded. Why not take this opportunity to storm Neon Garment Island?"

Xue Yunzi calmly said, "Do you know who the new guardian of Neon Garment Island is?"

The tall, thin cultivator shook his head.

Xue Yunzi's voice remained indifferent. "It's Lu Rong. He's the nephew of Yun Feijian."

The tall cultivator froze for a moment, then immediately understood Xue Yunzi's implication.

"Master's target is not Neon Garment Island, but... Lu Rong?"

Xue Yunzi's tone remained calm. "Exactly. Since Yun Feijian dared to kill my three Nascent Soul disciples, I'll make sure to torment his nephew, making his life worse than death."

Xue Yunzi's voice turned colder. "Now that Lu Rong hasn't arrived, what use is it to seize Neon Garment Island?"

The tall cultivator immediately nodded in understanding.

Xue Yunzi continued, "Has there been any news from the Serpent Buddha Temple?"

The cultivator responded respectfully, "Uncle Master Xue Lingzi has already sent word that the Serpent Buddha Temple has agreed to stir up trouble on Heavenly Bead Island of the Divine Sword Sect."

Xue Yunzi nodded in satisfaction. "Good. With the Serpent Buddha Temple making a move, nothing will stop me from acting."

...

A few days passed in the blink of an eye.

Neon Garment Island.

Chu Xuan felt a slight vibration from the transmission jade at his waist. He infused it with Spiritual Qi, and immediately, He Zhao's respectful voice came through.

"Fellow Daoist, everything has been calm these past few days. Lu Rong from the Divine Sword Sect has taken up his position."

Chu Xuan couldn't help but murmur, "No incidents have occurred?"

Had his predictions been wrong?

He shook his head and smiled lightly. After all, he wasn't a prophet; it was only natural for his guesses to be off at times.

Just as He Zhao's transmission ended, the jade at his waist vibrated again.

This time, it was Tao Zheng's voice.

"Fellow Daoist, Lu Rong and Zhang Ziheng have come looking for you on urgent business. Should I bring them to your cave residence?"

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. "Bring them over."

Not long after, a transmission talisman flew into his cave. He caught it, and a deep and serious voice resonated from within.

"Fellow Daoist He, I am Lu Rong. I've just assumed the position of guardian of Neon Garment Island, responsible for overseeing all matters here. I've heard of your profound skills in alchemy, and I've come to pay a visit."

Chapter 470: Chaos

Chu Xuan opened the door and stepped outside.

Before him stood a white-robed cultivator with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes. From the aura surrounding him, Chu Xuan could immediately tell that this person had been heavily influenced by Yun Feijian. Whether he was a prized disciple of Yun Feijian or simply someone who had intentionally modeled himself after Yun Feijian's way of doing things, his demeanor and mannerisms unconsciously carried Yun Feijian's distinct charm.

Standing beside Lu Rong were Zhang Ziheng and Tao Zheng.

Tao Zheng cupped his hands and bowed respectfully. "Fellow Daoist, these two seniors, Lu Rong and Zhang Ziheng, have urgent matters to discuss with you. I've brought them to your door."

Zhang Ziheng laughed heartily. "Lu Rong has sought out two alchemists, but since he didn't know where Fellow Daoist resides, he came to me for help. I didn't know either, so I asked Tao Zheng. Please don't be offended, Fellow Daoist."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. "I understand. Does Lu Rong have something urgent to attend to?"

Lu Rong nodded solemnly. His expression grew serious. "Indeed. My master sent me to Neon Garment Island with a significant mission. I won't waste your time with unnecessary words and will get straight to the point. Your Black Pill Pavilion has now become one of the best alchemy shops in Neon Garment Market. Why, then, has it suddenly closed its doors for business these past few days? This is not a good sign."

Chu Xuan smiled. "I had a sudden moment of enlightenment and decided to close for a while."

Lu Rong's expression darkened. "The Serpent Buddha Temple suddenly attacked Heavenly Bead Island, and our Divine Sword Sect is preparing to requisition a large number of healing pills. I hope that Black Pill Pavilion can resume operations. I can ensure that you will receive the largest order ever. Once our sect's spiritual stones are properly circulated, I'll bring them to you immediately."

"Rest assured, Fellow Daoist, our Divine Sword Sect has been established in the East Third Ring for many years, and we've always conducted ourselves with integrity. We will pay exactly what we owe—no less, not even a small spiritual stone."

Chu Xuan gave a faint, almost enigmatic smile. He was just a humble alchemist. This kind of "deliver first, pay later" approach wasn't something he could risk taking on.

"I'm terribly sorry, but cultivation is my priority," he said with a courteous but firm tone. "It's indeed a shame I can't take such a large order, but I must remain true to my priorities."

He smiled gently.

Lu Rong's brow furrowed deeply. "Are you serious?"

Chu Xuan nodded. "Quite serious."

Lu Rong stared at him for a long moment, as if searching for a trace of doubt in his eyes. Finally, he sighed and turned away. "Very well. If that's your decision, then I'll have to pass this order on to other alchemists. Hopefully, Fellow Daoist will not regret this decision."

Without hesitation, he turned and walked off.

Chu Xuan wasn't concerned in the slightest about this so-called big order. Spiritual stones were certainly valuable, but they only mattered if the other party was willing to part with them. After all, the Divine Sword Sect had two Deity Transformation cultivators in their ranks.

In the past, they wouldn't delay payment because of their pride. But what if they couldn't get the funds together and decided to turn to stubbornly delay the payment?

Then, what would those alchemists who accepted the large orders, spending their time and energy to refine the pills, do? Could they possibly go to the Divine Sword Sect and demand payment?

Under the watchful eyes of two Deity Transformation cultivators, demanding repayment was surely no small feat.

Zhang Ziheng and Tao Zheng stood stunned, not expecting things to unfold in this manner. By the time they realized what had just happened, Lu Rong was already far away.

Zhang Ziheng sighed deeply. "Fellow Daoist, how could you reject such a grand order? This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Not only would it bring you a great deal of spiritual stones, but you would also earn the favor of the Divine Sword Sect. In the future, wherever you go within their territory, you will be treated with respect!"

Tao Zheng, too, couldn't comprehend why Chu Xuan had so decisively turned down such a lucrative deal. But with his low cultivation, he didn't dare question it further and simply stayed silent.

Chu Xuan shook his head. "The immortal path comes first."

Zhang Ziheng, realizing that he couldn't change Chu Xuan's mind, shook his head and left.

Tao Zheng didn't say more either. He bowed deeply to Chu Xuan and then turned to leave as well.

Chu Xuan turned around and returned to Blue Star, where he resumed his routine of honing his physical body and improving his cultivation.

...

Two days later.

Suddenly, a sharp alarm echoed across Neon Garment Island!

Chu Xuan hurried to the high vantage point of tea house and furrowed his brow as he observed the situation.

In the distance, several shops were ablaze, with thick smoke billowing into the sky. Flames surged fiercely, sending waves of intense heat. Even from this far away, Chu Xuan could feel the scorching warmth sweeping toward him.

"What's going on? Why did it suddenly catch fire?" he wondered. "It doesn't look like ordinary fire either."

He raised an eyebrow. Amidst the inferno's shadow, he noticed many cultivators stirring restlessly, seemingly eager to take advantage of the chaos and profit.

Just then, the sky above suddenly darkened as blood-red clouds began swirling furiously, gathering in a thick, ominous mass.

Figures could be seen faintly shifting within the blood clouds.

This unmistakable sign heralded the arrival of the Blood Cloud Cave demonic cultivators!

Given the sheer number and density of the blood clouds, it was clear that the leading figures weren't just Nascent Soul cultivators at the early stage, but rather powerhouses at the Nascent Soul late stage!

Chu Xuan pondered deeply.

He had already spent a considerable amount of time on Neon Garment Island and had a general understanding of the island's situation.

Across the entire island, there was only one Nascent Soul late-stage cultivator: Lu Rong, the one stationed here by the Divine Sword Sect.

The rest of the Nascent Soul cultivators were mostly at the early stage of Nascent Soul, and they were not from the Divine Sword Sect. They had simply come to do business.

Clearly, it was unlikely these people would risk their lives for the Divine Sword Sect. Moreover, the Blood Cloud Cave would undoubtedly try to sway them to their side.

Just as this thought crossed Chu Xuan's mind, the two figures in the sky suddenly spoke aloud. Their voices swiftly reverberated across Neon Garment Island.

"All cultivators of Neon Garment Island, listen up! We have come only to drive the Divine Sword Sect away and bring this island under the rule of the Blood Cloud Cave. As long as you refrain from opposing us, once we take the island, we will not harm you!"

The message sent ripples through the hearts of the island's inhabitants. Many shared the same thought: whoever wins, we'll support them.

Lu Rong stood tall in the air, his figure surrounded by a gust of wind, as he spoke with a voice that echoed across the island.

"I have already reported the attack by these demonic cultivators to the Divine Sword Sect. Reinforcements will arrive soon. As long as we hold the defensive formations, these Blood Cloud Cave cultivators will not be able to breach the island. Fellow Daoists, do not let yourselves be swayed by these demons. If we can resist the Blood Cloud Cave, I will personally request rewards for all those who fight in this battle!"

Lu Rong's gaze swept over the entire island, his voice booming, "All cultivators of Neon Garment Island, come, join me in facing these enemies!"

Chu Xuan observed coldly, unmoving. A few days ago, when the island's defensive formations had been vulnerable, the Blood Cloud Cave did not act. But now, they had launched an all-out assault.

If they had no hidden trump cards, Chu Xuan would not believe it. It was very possible that Xue Yunzi was lurking somewhere in the shadows, preparing to act.

With the situation unclear, it would be unwise to recklessly charge into battle against the Blood Cloud Cave, especially if it exposed him prematurely.

"Could it be that the Blood Cloud Cave's sudden actions are not directed at me? When I erased all traces of the battle, there shouldn't be any clues left to trace back to me."

Chu Xuan mused.

As long as the enemy's goal was not him, he could still bide his time. Waiting until the situation became clearer before taking action would be the smarter choice.