64-73

Chapter 64. Surrender

Below was the melodious and deep sound of the zither, above was the startling thunderous sound of the drums. As the zither and drum intertwined, the music gradually reached its climax.

Shu Han's pupils contracted, and the black gas emitted by his Black Claw firmly covered himself, but this black energy was also disturbed by the sound waves. With each disturbance from the music, the protective black energy weakened a bit. He couldn't help but let out a cold laugh: "Musical magic treasure, you guys really know what's best for me!"

Shu Han extended his right hand's Black Claw and drew black claw marks respectively, striking at the sky and the ground. Meanwhile, he immediately transformed into a black smoke ready to flee.

Listening to the duo's performance, it was evident that their cultivation was not shallow, and their coordination was seamless. Shu Han knew he was no match for them, so he decided to shield himself and retreat!

However, a continuous climbing sound suddenly came from the forest below. Countless sound waves, much like wind blades, burst out from the forest, directly cutting open a bare area in the forest. Hundreds of large trees, along with Shu Han's Black Claw, were cut down by the sound waves. Then a series of heavy drums were struck above his head.

Crash!

A curtain of sound waves descended from the sky, blocking Shu Han's path. Seeing that Shu Han had been blocked, the zither from below once again played a melodious tune.

Cui Xiangming sat in the forest, gently stroking a zither, and slowly said along with the melodious melody, "One tune that breaks the heart, where in the world can one find a confidant? Friend, you and I have had such pleasant exchanges, why do you leave in such a hurry? Please listen to one tune, 'Hero's Meeting' before you leave."

Shu Han coldly snorted, "Cui Xiangming, we had a pleasant trade, why would you do such a thing? Could it be that you also want to engage in the business of murder for wealth?"

Cui Xiangming laughed, "Our Treasure Light Pavilion never does things that destroy our reputation. Rest assured, today, we won't harm you. We just hope you can accompany us to the Golden Silkworm Association."

Upon hearing this, Shu Han immediately understood.

"They want me alive!"

Cui Xiangming nodded, "You are just at the beginning of the Foundation Establishment stage, while my friend and I are already at the peak of the early stage. You are a smart person, so don't resist futilely."

Shu Han had already guessed most of it in his heart. The one who could have the Golden Silkworm Association issue a warrant for his arrest was definitely the doing of Shangguan Ruotong! Catching him was just bait, the real target was Shangguan Ruolin.

Shu Han evaluated the situation and thought to himself, 'Escaping seems to be impossible, but I can't let these two leave alive.'

The place was less than half a day's journey from Willow Mountain. Even if he escaped from them, if they returned with the news, Shangguan Ruotong would certainly come to kill him.

Thinking of this, a murderous intent flashed in Shu Han's eyes.

Today, you two must die!

But if he couldn't even escape, how could he counterattack?

Shu Han quickly devised a plan in his mind. He laughed heartily, "Since you two want to take action, how can I not accompany you? I haven't really fought with someone at the Foundation Establishment stage yet. Please enlighten me!"

"Obstinate!"

Buzz~

Cui Xiangming's hand playing the zither strings sped up, and visible sound waves rushed up from under the forest. Concentrated drumbeats also came from above. Shu Han was disturbed by the dense drumbeats, spinning in the air, but still had his black energy cut through by the zither sound waves, leaving several bloodstains on his chest.

Musical magic treasures were indeed troublesome. Not only was there the interference of the sound field, but the substantial sound waves also had great power!

Shu Han was not to be outdone, he mobilized his magic power, took out several magic tools from his storage bag, and threw them hard at Cui Xiangming.

These magic tools were at best of high quality, and they came in all varieties. They were all obtained by Shu Han from the deceased Qi Refining stage cultivators in the mine. He rarely used these magic tools. Although their total value was quite high, he didn't lack these, so he used his magic power to launch them all at Cui Xiangming.

Facing the assault of so many magic tools, Cui Xiangming couldn't help but click his tongue.

This kid is really rich! Too damn rich!

So, he yelled, "Old Hu, help!"

Boom! Boom!

Two extremely heavy drumbeats were struck. The drum sound formed a curtain, blocking the attack of dozens of Shu Han's magic tools.

However, the next moment, Shu Han's move made this merchant from the Treasure Light Pavilion feel dizzy.

Shu Han lightly said, "Explode!"

Bang! Bang! Bang...

A series of fireworks exploded above Cui Xiangming's head.

The quality of these magic tools varied, but dozens of them exploding together produced a force that immediately pierced through the drum sound barrier, directly flipping Cui Xiangming on the spot and breaking three of his zither strings.

Cui Xiangming quickly crawled out of the leaves, but Shu Han wouldn't give him a chance to catch his breath. He fully mobilized his Black Claw and attacked. The Black Claw overshadowed the sky, aiming to crush Cui Xiangming in one fell swoop.

Cui Xiangming suppressed his rolling blood and qi, pulled out three new zither strings, and restringed his zither. He kicked the zither, and it stood up instantly. He gathered his magic power in his hands and vigorously plucked all the strings.

A harsh cracking sound exploded. In an instant, all the objects around Cui Xiangming were fixed in place. Even the Black Claw, fully powered by Shu Han, could barely advance in the air.

A trace of blood flowed from the corner of Cui Xiangming's mouth as he shouted, "Old Hu! Hurry! I can't hold on much longer!"

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Three heavy drumbeats fell immediately, like a mountain pressing on Shu Han, hammering him into the ground.

Cui Xiangming, afraid that Shu Han might have a backup plan, made a claw with both hands and crazily plucked the strings. A series of harsh explosion sounds rushed toward Shu Han. Instantly, the black energy in the pit was all dispersed, and Cui Xiangming felt Shu Han's breath getting weaker.

Finally, Shu Han shouted from the pit, "Stop fucking hitting! Capture alive! Can't you hear? You're hitting me to death!"

Cui Xiangming wiped the sweat from his forehead, "You have many tricks up your sleeve, we must be cautious!"

Shu Han, covered in wounds, climbed out of the pit and said, "I surrender! Do whatever you want, just don't beat me anymore."

Seeing Shu Han throwing out his magic treasure, Cui Xiangming let down his guard, gestured to the air, and a bearded man descended, a waist drum wrapped around his waist. He looked at Shu Han in the pit coldly, "This kid is finally quiet."

Shu Han cupped his hands and dragged his bruised body towards the two, "You two are really harsh! If I knew earlier, I wouldn't have fought with you."

The bearded man laughed, "Isn't this what you asked for? Old Cui, put on the shackles, don't let him play any tricks."

Cui Xiangming took out a pair of rune shackles and shackled Shu Han's hands. Seeing this, the two finally let their guards down and began to rummage through Shu Han's storage bag.

"Hey, I thought you only captured people and didn't seek wealth?"

The bearded man laughed, "We'll keep this for you first, come find us when you get out of the Golden Silkworm Association alive."

"No principles at all!"

However, Shu Han looked at the two and suddenly smiled mysteriously.

"Since there's no principle, then you can both go to hell!"

At this moment, Shu Han's skin began to crack, and dazzling golden light shone from the cracks.

Chapter 65. Wanted Bounty

Boom!

A huge golden semi-spherical bubble rose from the forest, like half a giant golden egg suddenly poking out from the ground.

The next moment, the golden egg abruptly shattered, and a massive shock wave leveled the entire forest.

In the deep pit at the explosion center, Cui Xiangming struggled to crawl out of the soil. His one hand and one foot were blown to pieces, and his meridians and Dantian were shattered. He was almost a cripple.

Old Hu, who was not yet dead, also crawled out of the soil. His hands were intact, but everything below his knees was gone. He lay on the ground like a dying earthworm.

Cui Xiangming looked around in horror, muttering, "The kid... self-destructed... how could... how could a Foundation Establishment cultivator self-destruct..."

In all his years, Cui Xiangming had never seen a Foundation Establishment cultivator self-destruct.

Foundation Establishment cultivators live for hundreds of years, and each one of them cherishes their lives. Who would want to self-destruct?

But Shu Han was different. He seemed to deliberately show weakness, letting the two of them gather together, and intentionally self-destruct.

"Crazy!"

Cui Xiangming screamed to the sky. However, a flash of black light appeared before his eyes, and a black long sword cut through the sky, descending from the sky and directly plunging into the struggling Old Hu's head, ending his life.

Cui Xiangming was shocked, his residual divine sense sensed people approaching. At this moment, something suddenly sprang out of the pit, surrounded by black energy.

Cui Xiangming recognized it as the Black Claw magic treasure abandoned by Shu Han. However, logically, with Shu Han's self-destruction and death, the Black Claw magic treasure should have been masterless, so why did it emerge from the ground on its own?

Just as Cui Xiangming was puzzled, the black long sword turned around, hovering in front of him. The sight that made him die unwillingly appeared. A person walked down from the pit, and it was the intact Shu Han.

Cui Xiangming's bloodshot eyes were about to pop out. His remaining hand pointed at Shu Han, almost out of breath.

"You... you... Weren't you dead?"

Shu Han caught the flying Black Claw, emagic powerting black energy all over his body. He walked up to the dying Cui Xiangming and laughed, "Whether I'm dead or alive, what does it have to do with you? Anyway, you're about to die. Why not make some final value before death, and tell me, who sent you to kill me?"

Cui Xiangming shouted angrily, "Phew! Even if I die, I won't tell you!"

Swish!

The black flying sword plunged into his skull.

"Then go to your death!"

Following that, Shu Han began to search through his belongings, muttering to himself, "Even if you don't tell me, can't I find out for myself? Besides, even without your telling, I could guess who it is just with my toes." Soon, he found Cui Xiangming's storage bag and took out the Golden Silkworm's secret order. He glanced at it, which recorded his portrait.

Shu Han sighed and scratched his head, "This is not good to handle! It's not just the Golden Silkworm Association!" With that said, he began to collect the spoils of this explosion.

After stripping Cui Xiangming and Old Hu's storage bags, Shu Han began to dig on the spot, searching for their magic treasures. He was covetous of the two sound magic treasures.

Firstly, the power of these two surpassed his claw and sword, and secondly, sound magic treasures were the core components of the Silent Heartbreak Formation.

After a long search, Shu Han finally found two dust-covered magic treasures in the pile of dirt. The Frost Edge Harp and the Rolling Thunder Drum.

The main bodies of these two magic treasures were not damaged, but all the strings of the Frost Edge Harp were broken. Fortunately, there were enough strings in Cui Xiangming's storage bag for replacement. However, one side of the Rolling Thunder Drum exploded, and Shu Han didn't know what to use to mend it.

But to Shu Han's delight, both of these magic treasures were mid-stage Foundation Establishment magic treasures. Cui Xiangming was truly a member of the Golden Silkworm Association, using high-quality items.

After cleaning up the battlefield, Shu Han incinerated the bodies of the two with a fire and then stood up to return to Willow Mountain.

...

A little earlier, Shu Han's main body was working in the fields when he suddenly spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, his face turning red. This startled Shangguan Ruolin who was working nearby. How could he suddenly spit out blood while working so well?

Then, Shu Han sat down on the spot to recover for a moment, then walked towards Shangguan Ruolin with a pale face.

The feedback from the self-destruction of his avatar made the main body also uncomfortable, and Shu Han's essence and magic power suddenly dropped by thirty percent. He sat down beside Shangguan Ruolin and said, "Senior, I have one good news and one bad news, Which one do you want to hear first?"

Shangguan Ruolin turned to look at him, asking in surprise, "I'm more curious about how you managed to cultivate a good news and a bad news from just planting crops."

Shu Han was speechless, "I'll explain this to you later."

Shangguan Ruolin then said, "Give me the bad news first."

Shu Han said, "The bad news is that our current situation isn't very good, we probably can't casually appear in the cultivation world anymore. Because Shangguan Ruotong has now united all the sects and commercial associations in the North of the Great Cloud and issued a bounty of five hundred medium-grade spirit stones to capture us."

"What!"

Shangguan Ruolin was shocked and jumped up. Anger filled her face, she cursed, "That damn girl, I knew she would pull a stunt like this!" Then, she grabbed Shu Han's clothes and asked, "How do you know this? Aren't you always with me?"

Shu Han spread his hands helplessly, explaining, "I have two avatars who have been gathering information outside."

Shangguan Ruolin's eyes flashed with displeasure, but in the end, she didn't say anything and sat down with a huff, asking, "What's the good news?"

Shu Han laughed, "The good news is, we've silently learned about this bad news, so we won't walk into their trap! Shangguan Ruotong's scheme will not succeed!"

Upon hearing this, Shangguan Ruolin's face completely chilled. She shoved Shu Han down, grabbing his collar in anger, "Kid! Are you trying to make fun of me? I've been tolerating you for a long time, you're asking for it!" With that, she raised her small fists and started to pummel him. Shu Han got up and ran, with an irate Shangguan Ruolin chasing after him.

The older women working in the distance saw the two of them chasing each other in the fields and laughed at each other, "Look, these siblings have such a good relationship!"

Eventually, Shangguan Ruolin, panting for breath, didn't manage to hit Shu Han even once. She shouted, "Stop running! Come here, we need to discuss what we're going to do next! We can't just join a random sect to gain qualifications to go to the space where the Heavenly Creation Fluid is located, we need to think of another way right now!"

Shu Han walked over and said, "Actually, I've already thought of a plan. Although we can't show ourselves, my avatar can join a sect to obtain the qualifications."

"Your avatar technique is indeed remarkable, but it's easy for a Golden Core stage cultivator to see through a fake avatar. It's impossible."

Shu Han shook his head and said, "Senior, I'm not talking about the avatar technique, but the incarnation technique! I have a technique that can refine an External Incarnation. This incarnation is not like an avatar, but a second body that absolutely cannot be seen through!"

Shangguan Ruolin understood instantly, asking in surprise, "You have such an amazing technique!?"

Shu Han nodded.

"Teach me!"

Shu Han was speechless, "Okay... No problem..."

At this moment, a woman from Zhang Village suddenly ran over, shouting all the way, "The men are back! They've dug up the snow lotus!"

Chapter 66. Thousand-Year Snow Lotus

Upon hearing the shout, the women of Zhang Village all showed joyous smiles. Each one put down their farming tools and hurried towards the village. The lively atmosphere was like a celebration.

Having lived in Zhang Village for nearly a month, Shu Han had learned that the men here had mostly gone to the distant snow mountains to dig for a spiritual medicine called Snow Lotus. The journey was long and arduous, and they would be gone for two months.

So Shu Han returned to the village with the older women. Upon arriving at Zhang Village, he saw a large bonfire in the center of the village. Despite it being noon, a group of men wrapped in quilts were huddled by the fire, shivering in the blaze.

Their faces were pale, and there was a chill between their brows. They shakily accepted the ginger soup handed to them by the women. They downed the scalding ginger soup in one gulp, not only were they not scalded, but they also wanted more.

With a glance, Shu Han knew that this was the cold energy of the snow lotus entering the body. Although it was not lethal, it was still uncomfortable for some time.

In front of these people, a bamboo basket exuded a white cold air. Inside were more than ten ten-year-old snow lotuses.

Shu Han was not unfamiliar with the Snow Lotus. It was the main medicine for Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, and Shu Han still had more than ten hundred-year-old snow lotuses in his storage bag.

The cold of the snow lotus was nothing to be afraid of. As long as cultivators slightly operated their cultivation method, they could dissolve it, but for ordinary people, it was akin to a deadly cold poison.

The women of each household were looking after their own men. The village chief, leaning on his crutch, went from house to house to count the number of people. Many women cried on the ground because they did not see their men.

After counting the number of people, the village chief stroked his beard and shook his head, "Why only these people came back, and the snow lotuses are not even half of what they used to be, what can we do!"

At this time, Madam Song leading her son rushed over. They anxiously circled the crowd two or three times. Their faces turned pale and they sat down on the ground. They grabbed a man and asked anxiously, "Old Chen, where is Gua's father?! Where did his father go?!"

The village chief also came over and asked, "Chen! What exactly happened, why only these people came back? Tell us!"

The group of men huddling together for warmth all showed sadness on their trembling faces. The man surnamed Chen stammered, "The weather was good that day. We split into two teams to dig for snow lotuses, and everything was fine. Then our team saw a snow lotus as big as a person dancing on the snow slope from a distance. We were frightened and hurried down from the cliff. But Brother Song led the others to climb higher. They didn't have time to come down when a sudden blizzard came."

"The snow and ice in the wind were like knives, cutting our faces painfully. Suddenly we couldn't see or hear anything, everything was white. Those of us who came down quickly dug a snowhole on the spot and crawled in. We huddled together for warmth and barely survived the night, many brothers' hands and feet were frozen. When we looked in the daylight, we didn't know where Brother Song's team had gone."

"We searched for half a day and didn't find Brother Song and his team. Then someone saw that dancing snow lotus on the mountaintop again. We were terrified and hurried back."

Alas!

"The snow lotus has become sentient! It must be that we've dug up too many of its children and it's come to take revenge on us! We only have these few snow lotuses left, how are we going to explain to those people!" the village chief exclaimed, stamping his cane in desperation.

A snow lotus as tall as a person and dancing?

Shu Han and Shangguan Ruolin exchanged a glance. A thousand-year snow lotus!

Upon hearing this, Madam Song almost fainted, holding her son Gua and crying uncontrollably.

Seeing Madam Song's heartbroken appearance, and thinking about how much love Madam Song had shown her over the past month, Shangguan Ruolin also felt a sourness in her heart.

Her little face showed sadness. She walked over and comforted Madam Song by patting her shoulder. Madam Song looked at Shangguan Ruolin, hugged her, and cried, "Ruolin, the pillar of our family is gone. How am I going to live? I can't go on!"

Shangguan Ruolin leaned her head on Madam Song's shoulder, her small hand patting her continuously, then turned to look at Shu Han. Then she let go of Madam Song's hand, grabbed Shu Han, and walked out of the crowd.

Coming to a quiet corner of the village, Shangguan Ruolin ordered, "Let's go find the other people from the village."

Shu Han looked at Shangguan Ruolin's determined gaze and sighed, "Senior, you should also know that the blizzard caused by the thousand-year snow lotus, those mortals are unlikely to have survived."

"I know!" Shangguan Ruolin suddenly shouted angrily, "If they are alive, they should be seen. If they are dead, their bodies should be seen! Even if they have to cry, I must let them know why!"

Shu Han nodded, looked at Shangguan Ruolin seriously, and said, "Senior, you've indeed changed a lot. If it were before, you probably wouldn't even bother about these people. Not to mention finding their bodies."

"Nonsense! I just don't want to be a freeloader! Who cares about these mortals' feelings."

Shu Han looked at Shangguan Ruolin's unyielding appearance and revealed a faint smile. Then he pulled Shangguan Ruolin up, turned into a black light, and rushed straight towards the distant snow mountain.

The journey that would take a mortal half a month, Shu Han, riding on the Pursuing Sword, reached in less than half a day. Upon arriving at this snow mountain, he realized how huge it was. What was initially a white dot on the horizon now blocked half of Shu Han's view.

The snow mountain was covered in white snow, and the setting sun's rays were reflected on the mountain, dyeing it a shade of blood-red.

How to find those people on such a huge mountain?

Shangguan Ruolin sat on Shu Han's shoulder and patted him, saying, "What are you dazing at? Start searching from the foot of the mountain and break open the ice layer inch by inch."

Such a workload...

Actually, there's no better way. It had been nearly half a month since these people dug for the snow lotus, and any traces had long been swept clean by the wind and snow.

And so, Shu Han, with the Pursuing Sword in one hand and the Black Claw in the other, used his magical power to break through the layers of snow and ice, sweeping from the foot of the mountain to its waist.

Inch by inch, they searched, covering the entire foot of the mountain. A full day had passed, yet there was still no sign of the other team from Zhang Village. Throughout the day, although Shangguan Ruolin did not contribute physically, her eyes never stopped assisting Shu Han in his search.

This was the first time Shu Han had seen Shangguan Ruolin so invested in the affairs of others. He couldn't help but buck up and increase the speed of his search.

Flying up to the waist of the mountain, Shu Han felt that this method of searching was too inefficient. Suddenly, he had an idea and slammed the Pursuing Sword and the Black Claw together. The collision of the two magical treasures made a deafening clang.

After performing a few more operations, the snow accumulated on the mountainside began to slide down. The momentum grew larger and larger, eventually triggering a chain of avalanches that swept away the newly covered layer of snow.

In the rolling snow, Shu Han's sharp eyes caught a black block of ice. The missing villagers from Zhang Village were curled up inside the block of ice.

Shangguan Ruolin let out a long sigh and listlessly leaned on Shu Han's shoulder. "Let's go back. At least we have something to show for our efforts."

"Hold on! Senior, look!"

Shangguan Ruolin followed Shu Han's gaze to see a huge and holy snow lotus blooming on a snowy slope not far from the top of the mountain. The bright petals swayed in the wind as if a dancer in a long dress was performing a graceful dance in the mountains, mesmerizing to behold.

Shangguan Ruolin became angry, "A mere thousand-year-old spirit herb dares to act recklessly in front of me! Shu Han, pluck it for me!"

"I had the same thought!"

Chapter 67. In the Blizzard

The thousand-year-old Snow Lotus danced gracefully, but beneath this beautiful dance, a deadly intent brewed.

At this time, storm clouds started to gather at the mountain peak, piling up like a mountain on top of the already snow-covered mountain.

The whistling wind passed by their ears, and Shu Han would not give this Snow Lotus a chance to summon a blizzard. He stepped onto the Pursuing Sword and turned into a streak of black light, slashing directly toward the root stem of the Snow Lotus.

The brightly lit flower seemed to have its own sentience, sensing Shu Han's approach. Its petals curled up into a ball and its roots suddenly uprooted from the snow. With two forked roots that resembled legs, this thousand-year-old Snow Lotus began to run like mad, heading straight toward the peak of the mountain.

This stunned Shu Han. He had seen many Snow Lotuses before, but this was the first time he had ever seen one that could run.

Seeing the target slip away, Shu Han used the Black Claw to create claw marks in an attempt to block the Snow Lotus's escape route. The claw marks carved deep trenches in the snow, but the Snow Lotus created afterimages, jumping around the trenches and running towards the mountain peak.

By this time, the blizzard on the top of the mountain was becoming even more massive.

Shangguan Ruolin slapped Shu Han, saying, "Shu Han! Keep up! This Snow Lotus can't get off this snow mountain, you must capture it!"

Without needing Shangguan Ruolin's command, Shu Han would naturally not give up the chase.

A thousand-year-old Snow Lotus, if used to prepare Clear Bright Spiritual Eye Potion, its effect would increase at least a hundredfold!

So Shu Han followed closely behind the thousand-year-old Snow Lotus on his sword. The speed of the Snow Lotus was astounding, darting through the snow from time to time, not allowing Shu Han to get any closer. As Shu Han climbed higher, the temperature on the mountain got lower and the air thinner.

In the end, the Snow Lotus reached the mountain peak. It stopped running and directly rooted itself on the top of the mountain. Shu Han wouldn't let this golden opportunity slip away, so he struck without hesitation, trying to pluck the large thousand-year-old Snow Lotus.

However, at this time, the Snow Lotus's roots emitted a cold light, and the blizzard clouds in the sky began to rotate rapidly, cascading onto the mountain peak. A fierce blizzard carrying thick snowflakes and hard hailstones rained down upon them.

In an instant, Shu Han lost sight of his surroundings. His body felt as if it was being pounded by countless fists and sliced by blades. He quickly embraced Shangguan Ruolin, protecting her in his arms.

Looking out from the gap in Shu Han's arms, Shangguan Ruolin could see that the top of the great snow mountain was now a world of blizzards and hail, and the situation was getting more and more severe. If a Qi Refining stage cultivator without a magic tool was standing in this blizzard, they would be crushed into pieces by the high-speed blizzard and hail in less than half an hour.

Shu Han's physical body couldn't bear it anymore and he immediately activated the Black Claw, releasing a protective black energy around his body, finally relieving the pressure.

"Senior! Since when did the thousand-year-old Snow Lotus have such terrifying power? I have to focus completely just to protect myself."

Watching the surroundings from within Shu Han's arms, Shangguan Ruolin replied, "I don't know either. I have seen dozens if not a hundred, thousand-year-old spirit plants, but I have never seen one with such amazing powers. Shu Han, hold on for now. This blizzard conjured by the millennium snow lotus won't last much longer!"

Struggling to maintain his magical output, Shu Han responded, "I'm trying, but it feels as though the storm is growing stronger. Also, senior, do you not feel the cold within my protective black fog?"

At this point, Shuguang Ruolin had already unconsciously snuggled closer to Shu Han. Her fingertips had turned a frosty red, her face paling slightly. The dampness on her long eyelashes had immediately frozen into frost. Without needing Shu Han to ask, she was aware of the rapid decrease in temperature, a cold that Shu Han's protective black fog couldn't fend off, nor the floral gown given to her by Madam Song.

"Are you scared of the cold? So what if it gets a little colder? Are we cultivators to be frozen to death?"

Shu Han couldn't help but pull in his head, chuckling, "I'm not afraid of the cold. It's just that my internal magic power is beginning to solidify due to the chill. I fear that in less than an hour, my meridians will be frozen solid. Senior, this cold is not ordinary!"

Shuguang Ruolin pulled away from Shu Han's embrace, "Sit down!"

Shu Han obeyed, sitting cross-legged in front of her. She stared into his eyes, announcing, "I'm going to pass on a defensive incantation! When recited, it will consume your magical power to maintain a steady cycle. Recite with me... Tian Di Xuan Zong, Wan Qi Ben Gen…"

Shu Han held his breath, focusing intently, following Shuguang Ruolin's recital. Gradually, he entered a strange state.

In this state, his magic began to drain at an accelerated rate, but waves of golden light radiated throughout his meridians. This golden layer blocked the invading cold, maintaining a smooth flow of his magical cycle.

Soon, Shu Han's complexion improved considerably, his cheeks flushing with warmth again. Suddenly, he felt a tightening in his spirit, as if it had been a long time since he heard Shuguang Ruolin's recitation. Quickly opening his eyes, he saw her collapsed in the snow, her face as white as snow.

Damn it! Senior had no magic, and the spell recitation was ineffective!

Shu Han quickly scooped up the frozen Shuguang Ruolin. Other than a bit of warmth at her Golden Core spot on her forehead, the rest of her was exuding cold. He hurriedly rubbed her face and hands, but it didn't help.

The surrounding cold was growing more intense. Shu Han felt himself begin to stiffen after a moment without reciting the spell.

There was no time to hesitate!

Shu Han swallowed, holding Shuguang Ruolin in his arms, and started to undress her. However, she woke up suddenly in a daze. Her little hand clutching Shu Han's wrist, she mumbled, "Shu Han... What are you... trying to do..."

Without any more hesitation, Shu Han moved Shuguang Ruolin's hand aside, "Senior, my apologies!"

With that, Shuguang Ruolin's clothes were entirely removed, and Shu Han ripped open his own shirt, pulling her close to his bare chest. He picked up her clothes, filled all the gaps, and held her tightly.

The moment he held her, it was as if he embraced a large block of ice, and he was chilled to the bone.

Bearing the cold pervading his body, Shu Han recited the protective spell once more, gripping a mid-grade spiritual stone to enhance his magical output. Under the protection of the golden light, his body temperature gradually rose.

Half-conscious, Shuguang Ruolin felt as though she was clutching a large furnace. She couldn't help but tighten her grip on it as if she had comfortably soaked in a hot spring. Her white face gradually turned rosy, and the frozen stiffness in her hands and feet started to regain sensation.

Half-dazed, she couldn't help rubbing her face against the warmth in front of her. The sense of security and warmth flooding her heart caused her heart to race, gradually bringing back her consciousness.

Resting her head on Shu Han's chest, Shuguang Ruolin whispered, "Boy... Even if you saved me like this... Once I recover, I'll still kill you... Understand?"

Struggling against the storm and the cold, Shu Han's strength was gradually waning. He laughed, "I understand, I understand. Once we weather this, I'll be at your disposal."

Inhaling Shu Han's distinctive scent, Shuguang Ruolin drifted into sleep.

"I will... surely... kill you..." she murmured.

Chapter 68. Shangguang Ruolin's Resolution

Shangguan Ruolin woke from her daze, feeling as though she had slept comfortably on a warm bed at Madam Song's home, a sense of indescribable comfort spread from head to toe. She rubbed her eyes and sat up, noticing she was neatly dressed. The memory of being naked and snuggling in Shu Han's embrace seemed like a dream.

Thinking about that scene, Shangguan Ruolin's face couldn't help but flush in embarrassment, a strange emotion rippled in her heart. She was too shy to recall it, but her mind kept replaying it over and over again.

By now, the blizzard had passed, leaving the summit of the snowy mountain silent and vast, the horizon in the east was showing a trace of daybreak.

With the forthcoming dawn's faint light, Shangguan Ruolin looked around, eagerly searching for Shu Han's figure. She saw Shu Han walking towards the exhausted thousand-year-old snow lotus, which seemed utterly despondent as if the storm had drained all its energy the night before.

Shu Han reached the snow lotus, grabbed its root, and pulled it out completely.

In that instant, the east broke into dawn, and the first rays of sunlight spilled over the snow-covered mountain peak, lighting up the place as if it were a heavenly paradise on earth.

After storing the thousand-year-old snow lotus in his storage bag, Shu Han collapsed on the spot from exhaustion, staring blankly at the sunrise in the east.

Shangguan Ruolin walked over to him, Shu Han turned his head to look at her, showing a tired smile.

"Got the thousand-year-old snow lotus?"

Shu Han nodded.

Shangguan Ruolin's mind was a mess at the moment, not knowing how to continue the conversation. She turned around and said, "Let's go then, we've been gone for several days, and the people in Zhang Village are probably worried about us."

Suddenly, her hand was grabbed by Shu Han, who pulled her over and sat her down next to him. Shu Han let out a long sigh, with a satisfied smile watching the sun slowly rise in the east, he said, "Senior, it's rare that we both made it through. We're not in a hurry, stay with me here for a while."

Shangguan Ruolin didn't refute, she leaned against Shu Han in silence, her face flushed as she watched the sunrise with him.

Sitting on the top of the snowy mountain, seeing the glory of the sunrise gradually spreading over the world, along with the sparkling snow around them, it was indeed a breathtaking view. However, the more beautiful the sunrise was, the faster Shangguan Ruolin's heartbeat was, and the more flustered she became.

Shu Han suddenly said, "It's been a long time since I watched the sunrise like this."

Shangguan Ruolin remained silent, while Shu Han continued, "I joined a sect named Mystical Dragon Sect when I was young, living under the shadow of the sect's head for five years. Every dawn, I would practice my magic and martial arts as the sun rose, regardless of snow, rain, wind, or frost, never breaking the routine for five years. Because at that time, I knew I was facing a battle of life and death, and every day I survived, I gained a little more."

"Since coming to Great Cloud, I gradually forgot that feeling, thinking that I was free as a bird in the sky, a fish in the vast ocean. However, I later discovered that the vastness of the Great Cloud was nothing more than a broader Mystical Dragon Sect. Just like last night, we almost died in the blizzard."

Suddenly, Shu Han laughed.

"Senior, you didn't mention it, but I know it too. The future struggle for the Heavenly Creation Fluid is bound to be a life-or-death gamble. I hope that after that event, we can survive like this morning and watch another sunrise together."

Shangguan Ruolin turned her head to stare at Shu Han's beaming face. Suddenly her racing heart stopped. The anxiety and worry that had been plaguing her somehow seemed to be soothed this morning.

Shangguan Ruolin nodded, "It's a deal."

...

Meanwhile, at the headquarters of the Golden Silkworm Association in Cloud City.

Shangguan Ruotong was discussing with the President of the Golden Silkworm Association, a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator named Daoist Golden Silkworm. They were analyzing the information about Shu Han and Shangguan Ruolin gathered from various places.

Suddenly, the teacup in Shangguan Ruotong's hand was crushed, her pretty face couldn't help but blush slightly, her mood suddenly stirred in a peculiar way but soon returned to commendable calmness.

Seeing Shangguan Ruotong's sudden change in complexion, Daoist Golden Silkworm couldn't help asking, "Miss Shangguan, what's wrong?"

Shangguan Ruotong quickly waved at him and rushed out of the reception room, leaning against a corner to take deep breaths, calming her sudden emotional upheaval. Once her mood settled, she relished the sudden surge of emotion again, her eyes filled with doubt as she looked at the distant horizon.

"Sister, what kind of emotion is this...? Living with you for eight hundred years, it's the first time I felt this strange emotion from you..."

She lowered her head and chuckled lightly, savoring the emotional fluctuation just now.

"Hehe, I understand. Sister, have you forgotten? We, as sisters, are not meant to have such feelings." Shangguan Ruotong couldn't help but look at the black mark on her right wrist, laughing, "Seeing you like this, even I feel a bit sorry for you... For you, it would be better to die here, instead of going back."

Having collected her emotions, Shangguan Ruotong returned to the conference hall.

"Daoist Golden Silkworm, I've already doubled the reward and paid you a huge amount of spirit stones, yet why haven't I received any accurate information about those two? Is this how your Golden Silkworm Association does business? I demand to immediately dispatch twice as many people to find the whereabouts of these two in the north of Great Cloud!"

Daoist Golden Silkworm wryly smiled, "Miss Shangguan, it's not just about doubling the manpower, even allocating the current manpower is already stretching our Golden Silkworm Association's resources. Not to hide from you, Miss, the Immaculate Realm, which opens once every twenty years in the north of Great Cloud, is about to commence. The Heavenly Creation Fluid produced therein has already been targeted by various sects, our Golden Silkworm Association also needs to concentrate resources to prepare for the immaculate realm event, we really can't spare more manpower."

The Immaculate Realm? Heavenly Creation Fluid!

Shangguan Ruotong thought for a moment, then suddenly laughed, "I see, so that's why you came to the north of Great Cloud. Sister, your ambition is truly not small."

Daoist Golden Silkworm was left puzzled by Shangguan Ruotong's statement.

Then Shangguan Ruotong said, "In that case, there's no need to trouble you with searching anymore. The reward I offered can be kept by your Golden Silkworm Association, in exchange, you give me a spot to enter the Immaculate Realm."

"Ah!?" Daoist Golden Silkworm exclaimed, "Golden Core cultivators cannot go into the Immaculate Realm, the dimension would collapse!"

"It doesn't matter! Since I'm going, I naturally will suppress my cultivation level, and I won't compete with you for the Heavenly Creation Fluid. Moreover, I might be able to help your Golden Silkworm Association in the Immaculate Realm."

Daoist Golden Silkworm's eyes rolled around and he quickly poured tea for Shangguan Ruotong, saying, "Before we proceed, I should let Miss know, that the Immaculate Realm is dangerous and we can't guarantee your safety."

Shangguan Ruotong snorted, "She dared to go there without any cultivation base, why wouldn't I?"

Huh?

Daoist Golden Silkworm continued, "In case... I mean, just in case, if Miss encounters any accidents in the Immaculate Realm, then at Senior Heaven Devil's side..."

Shangguan Ruotong interrupted him, "No, it won't be. Everything has nothing to do with your Golden Silkworm Association, you won't be blamed."

Chapter 69. Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice

After sitting silently on top of the Great Snow Mountain for a while, Shu Han turned to Shangguan Ruolin and scratched his head, saying, "Senior, let's go. After sitting for a while, I feel like my butt is about to freeze off."

Shangguan Ruolin was startled and immediately said, "Shu Han, there's something strange about the place where the Millennium Snow Lotus is rooted! Dig up this area!"

Understanding her, Shu Han immediately stood up and began to dig with his Black Claw.

After removing layers of ice and snow, they exposed thick permafrost and rocks. Shu Han concentrated his Black Claw and dug down, only to find the permafrost extraordinarily hard. Furthermore, the deeper they dug, the more pressing the cold became.

Shu Han and Shangguan Ruolin exchanged glances; there was definitely something at play beneath them.

So, Shu Han used his Black Claw and Pursuing Sword together to strike. The two magic treasures hitting the permafrost were like striking black iron, even sparks flew out occasionally.

Under Shu Han's persistent digging, finally, a blue light emerged from the bottom of the pit. A piece of crystal clear blue ice revealed a corner within the dark permafrost.

Shu Han didn't dare to touch it with his hand. He used his Black Claw to hold it and pulled it out of the pit.

Holding the blue ice in his Black Claw, Shu Han immediately felt a chill transferred to him through the Black Energy, causing him to shiver. The temperature of the entire peak also drastically dropped with the emergence of the blue ice.

The crystal clear blue ice reflected dazzling blue light in the sunlight. Shu Han asked in surprise, "Senior, what is this? My divine sense will freeze when it gets close to this thing."

Shangguan Ruolin stared at the blue ice and said, "If I'm not mistaken, this should be the legendary Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice!" She couldn't help but laugh, "Well, well, no wonder a mere Millennium Snow Lotus has such a capability to control the weather. It turns out that it is leveraging this Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice to increase its power!"

Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice!

Shu Han gazed at the blue ice, asking, "What's so special about this Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice?"

Shangguan Ruolin leisurely said, "Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice was initially just an ordinary piece of ice. However, after being buried in the extreme cold for tens of thousands of years, it gradually transformed into this rare blue ice. As for its specific uses, I only know a few. I heard that the Eternal Night Palace in the extreme south excels in using this kind of the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice. Their high-ranking cultivators use Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice to create their life-bound magic treasures, combined with their extreme cold cultivation method, their power is formidable."

Shu Han became excited, holding up the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice, and said, "I was just worrying about not having materials to cast my life-bound magic treasure, and here it comes!"

"No!" Shangguan Ruolin quickly stopped him, saying, "You'd better not use this Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice to cast your life-bound magic treasure. The material for a life-bound magic treasure not only needs to be rare, but it also needs to match your own cultivation method. I see your method is not of the extreme Yin or cold type, so it's not appropriate to use Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice. There will be more suitable materials in the future. Also, don't you think this piece of the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice is too small?"

Shu Han scratched his head, "But Senior, casting a life-bound magic treasure would be of great help to my future actions. As for the compatibility issue, I don't have any background, encountering such divine material is already considered lucky, I don't strive for perfection."

Shangguan Ruolin suddenly kicked him, puffing up in anger, and said, "Who says you don't have a background? In the future, I am your background! Once I restore my strength, won't there be other better materials for you to cast your life-bound magic treasure?"

Seeing Shangguan Ruolin's serious face, Shu Han couldn't help but laugh.

Upon seeing Shu Han grinning at her, Shangguan Ruolin blushed and stammered, "What... are you laughing at?"

Shu Han said, "I will follow all the arrangements made by Senior."

Hearing Shu Han's absolute trust in her, a sweet feeling welled up in Shangguan Ruolin's heart. Then Shu Han asked, "What are we going to do with this Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice now?"

Shangguan Ruolin extended her little hand and said, "Lend me your cultivation."

Without hesitation, Shu Han held Shangguan Ruolin's small hand, and the magic power flowed from him to her. Shangguan Ruolin's cultivation gradually returned to the Foundation Establishment stage, and her figure began to return to normal, the enchantingly beautiful woman stood in the world again.

Holding Shangguan Ruolin's delicate hand, looking at her exquisite and beautiful face, Shu Han couldn't help but be in a daze.

Shangguan Ruolin gave him a glance and said, "What are you looking at? Give this Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice to me quickly!"

"Ah...yes!"

The Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice fell into Shangguan Ruolin's other hand, she made seal formations with both hands. One by one, golden characters emerged from her fingertips, inscribed on the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice. Soon, these characters glowed brilliantly, suppressing the cold aura emanating from it.

At this moment, a beautiful jade bracelet coalesced around Shangguan Ruolin's left wrist. The fine silk threads emanating from the bracelet were her life-bound magic treasure, the Six Harmonies Silk Bracelet.

Under Shangguan Ruolin's command, the silk threads automatically wove into a long rope, strung the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice into a pendant, and made it into a jade ornament.

Shangguan Ruolin walked over to Shu Han with the jade ornament, stretched out her arms around Shu Han's neck, and put the ornament on him.

At this moment, Shu Han couldn't help but feel his heart pounding, he asked, "Senior... what is this..."

The moment the pendant hung on his neck, Shu Han immediately felt a surge of cold spreading from his chest, shaking his entire body, and causing him to tremble.

Seeing this, Shangguang Ruolin immediately said, "Bear with it. This is a method I learned from the Eternal Night Palace. It uses the Ten Thousand Year Profound Ice to refine your body. If you wear this pendant for a long time, over time, you will be able to refine a Heavenly Cold Body. By then, not only will you not fear extremely cold cultivation methods, but you will also be immune to all poisons."

Shu Han curled up, his teeth were chattering.

"Senior, I fear that I will perish from this cold before I complete my cultivation of the Heavenly Cold Body."

A faint, mirthful laugh escaped Shangguan Ruolin as she delicately covered her mouth. "The Eternal Night Palace has a bed of ten-thousand-year-old ice, devoid of any sealing spell, yet they recline upon it just the same. I hear, though, it seems only those in the Core Formation stage are eligible to rest on that icy bed..."

Ice crystals had begun to form on Shu Han's lips. "But senior... I am merely at the early stages of Foundation Establishment."

Caught off guard, Shangguan Ruolin replied, chuckling, "It matters not. With the seal I've applied, no harm will come to your body. It is merely a process of adaptation. However, the initial stages are indeed trying. Should you fail to endure..."

Biting her lip, Shangguan Ruolin enveloped Shu Han in her arms, whispering, "I can assist you." As Shu Han held the delicate body in his arms, he swallowed hard, stuttering out, "That's enough, senior. With your embrace, I feel warmth creeping in..."

But Shangguan Ruolin did not release her hold, resting her head on Shu Han's shoulder, She murmured, "In the future, cease to call me senior. To be addressed so continuously, I feel as if you've aged me."

Shu Han: You are hundreds of years older than me...

Chapter 70. Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword

Half a day had passed and Shu Han gradually grew accustomed to the bone-chilling cold brought about by the ten-thousand-year profound ice, no longer burdened by the initial discomfort. Shangguan Ruolin, having reverted to her childlike form after returning to her cultivation, now slumbered upon Shu Han's shoulder, exhausted. The process of harnessing her spell to refine the ice must have consumed a great deal of her energy.

As Shu Han held her, flying back to Zhang Village on his flying sword, a thought occurred to him. With this piece of ice in his possession, he could replicate it using the black jar and create a bed of ten-thousand-year-old ice. Though feasible, the practicality of such an endeavor remained uncertain. Given his current level of cultivation, he would likely freeze into dust upon lying on it. Perhaps it would be best to abandon such an idea until he reached the Core Formation stage.

After half a day of flight, Shu Han, carrying Shangguan Ruolin, returned to Zhang Village. Inside his storage bag lay the bodies of the missing snow lotus diggers from the village. As he pondered how best to return the bodies, a sight from the sky made his heart sink. Half of Zhang Village was engulfed in roaring flames.

In a moment of panic, Shu Han's finger instantly touched the profound ice on his chest, releasing a surge of extreme cold. Under the influence of his wind incantation, this cold energy quickly expanded. The free-floating moisture in the air met this frigid current and coalesced into ice beads, plummeting downwards along with the cold stream.

As the cold stream swept over Zhang Village, the intense flames were instantly extinguished.

Feeling the shift in Shu Han's aura, Shangguan Ruolin stirred from her sleep, rubbing her groggy eyes as she asked, "What's happening?" Following his gaze, she saw half of Zhang Village reduced to ruins, her eyes filling instantly with a frosty resolve.

The two of them descended from the sky, rushing into the village. At this moment, Madam Song was kneeling in front of a burnt house, wailing.

Shangguan Ruolin dashed over. Seeing her, Madam Song hastily took her hand, examining her from head to toe.

"Linlin! You're back! Those damnable people didn't capture you! This is good... but they took Gua..."

Gently wiping the tear streaks from Madam Song's face, Shangguan Ruolin asked in a quiet voice, "Madam Song, what happened to the village?" Shu Han also chimed in, "Yes, Madam Song, what happened to the village? And Gua?"

Sobbing uncontrollably, Madam Song clung to Shangguan Ruolin. The village chief, leaning on his cane, approached Shu Han. "Ah, it's all the doing of the Whirlwind Gang! Our village didn't gather enough snow lotus, so those damned people took away the children and set a huge fire!"

A flicker of murderous intent flashed in Shu Han's eyes, but he remained calm as he asked, "Is this Whirlwind Gang part of the Jianghu forces? What do they need so much snow lotus for?"

The village chief said, "Ah, it's all because of the immortal master from the Purple Sun Sect who came from afar. The Whirlwind Gang then began to collect snow lotus from every household."

Purple Sun Sect!

The village chief, looking at the charred ruins of Zhang Village, let out a sigh of despair, "Little Han, you should take Linlin and leave as soon as possible. Staying in Zhang Village will only draw the attention of the Whirlwind Gang. Linlin, being as adorable as she is, would undoubtedly be a target." Upon finishing, he shouted to the villagers, "Those who still have their houses intact, bring out what you can to support Little Han and Linlin on their journey!"

Before long, the villagers all brought something to give. Bits of silver, dry food, and more, all piled in front of Shu Han.

"Go west. Those villains came from the East! You must avoid them at all costs!"

With tears in her eyes, Madam Song straightened Shangguan Ruolin's clothes, clutching her little hand and advising, "Linlin, you must listen to your brother when you're outside. If you come across anyone riding a horse, steer clear. Don't let them take you away like Gua..."

Fire brewed in Shangguan Ruolin's eyes, just about to burst into a tirade, but Shu Han stopped her. He shook his head gently at her, picked up the provisions generously assembled by the villagers, thanked them, and then, hand in hand with Shangguan Ruolin, left Zhang Village.

Once they reached the woods in Willow Mountain, Shangguan Ruolin jerked her hand free, her voice trembling with anger. "You're just going to leave? You go ahead, I'm staying! Those child-trafficking scum, I will tear them to shreds!"

Shu Han, setting down their packages, replied, "I only wished to avoid arousing the suspicion of our fellow villagers. The immortal from the Purple Sect, Linlin, this is an opportunity for us!"

Shangguan Ruolin inquired, "What kind of opportunity?"

"Do you remember the External Incarnation Technique I mentioned to you?"

Shangguan Ruolin nodded, "You said about cultivating an external incarnation to infiltrate a sect and secure a quota."

Shu Han responded, "Exactly, but creating an external incarnation takes half a year. If we join a sect after that time, we may not receive due attention as newcomers and fail to secure a quota. It would be better to target the cultivators from Purple Sun Sect and directly replace him with the external incarnation!"

"I don't care about your plan," Shangguan Ruolin interrupted, "first lend me your cultivation!"

"Lend my cultivation again? You just borrowed it not too long ago, it will consume your vitality!"

Fire flashed in Shangguan Ruolin's eyes, "I am going to kill!"

"I will handle it. There's no need to dirty your hands on these lowlife scoundrels who prey on our neighbors. I can take care of them all by myself."

Shangguan Ruolin still shook her head and gritted her teeth, "Anyone who dares harm my people, I will personally deal with them! Besides, didn't you mention earlier that you want to improve your strength by refining your own magic treasure? There's no need to refine a magic treasure, I will grant you one!"

After saying this, she grabbed Shu Han's hand without any further discussion. Left with no choice, Shu Han once again channeled his magic power into her.

Instantly, the murderous Shangguan Ruolin returned, her demeanor as imposing as when Shu Han first encountered her in the mines.

"Let's go!"

She grabbed Shu Han's hand, following the direction pointed out by the village chief, tracking the trail of the cart. Before long, they arrived at a mountain stronghold with a burning bonfire.

"First, we need to capture one alive and find out where the children are being held."

Shu Han nodded, transforming into a shadowy figure and swiftly traversing the forest. He quickly enveloped a sentry, bringing him to Shangguan Ruolin. The man, only seeing darkness before his eyes, suddenly found himself high above the ground, immediately trembling with fear.

Shangguan Ruolin coldly glanced at the man, asking, "Where are the children taken from Zhang Village being kept?"

The man looked at the stunningly beautiful Shangguan Ruolin, subdued by her captivating eyes, and dumbly responded, "They are locked in the cellar. The boss plans to sell them tomorrow to recoup the loss of the Snow Lotus."

"Where is this cellar?"

The man dumbly pointed in a direction.

Instantly, Shangguan Ruolin pointed at the man's forehead. He was launched like a cannonball, causing a massive explosion within the stronghold. In an instant, the over nine hundred members of the Whirlwind Gang came out, weapons in hand, searching for the intruders.

At this time, a man emerged from the main stronghold. Surrounded by a crowd, he stood proudly, clad in a purple robe. Shu Han recognized him as a cultivator at the eleventh layer of Qi Refining.

"Linlin, leave that man to me."

Shangguan Ruolin nodded, and at that moment, a brilliant golden thin sword emerged from her Golden Core. As soon as the sword appeared, Shu Han immediately felt the surrounding air being sliced apart, the sword light purging with a blinding sharpness. It was as though a small sun had ignited above the Whirlwind stronghold.

Wielding her long sword, Shangguan Ruolin gathered all the dispersed sword light behind her, forming two large wings made of sword feathers. Countless sword rays flickered behind her, shining brilliantly.

"This is the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, a top magic treasure of the late Foundation Establishment stage. It was the magic treasure I used most frequently during my Foundation Establishment period. Watch closely, Shu Han. I only have enough magic power for one strike!"

Chapter 71. Xu Zimo

As the magic power gathered, the four pairs of golden wings behind Shangguan Ruolin became increasingly larger, covering the sky with their grandeur.

The people of the Whirlwind stronghold and the purple-robed cultivator below were all shivering with fear.

Many people, witnessing the eight-winged sword, couldn't help but kneel down.

The purple-robed cultivator was the first to react, desperately trying to escape from the Whirlwind stronghold. However, before he could fly out of the stronghold, a black hand grabbed him, instantly stripping him of his defensive magic tool.

A golden sword mark appeared between Shangguan Ruolin's eyebrows. She rose into the sky with her sword, the four pairs of wings slowly folding in and spinning with her. With a sudden closure, the wings stretched out to both sides. With a resolute look in her eyes, she shouted, "Evil-Breaking in hand, justice spans the land!"

Whoosh!

The Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword was thrown from her hand like a streak of golden lightning slashing down.

Boom!

The Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword struck the center of the Whirlwind stronghold, a strong wave of golden light ripping open a massive rift in the earth. Everyone in the stronghold was sent flying into the sky by the golden wave.

Yet, it wasn't over.

The four pairs of wings behind Shangguan Ruolin followed closely, their golden blades raining down on the stronghold like a storm, turning anyone caught in the golden rain into golden ashes.

From his high vantage point, Shu Han looked down at the cracked mountain and the golden dust pervading the stronghold, drawing a sharp breath.

The magic treasure of the late Foundation Establishment stage was so terrifying!

The first round was a powerful focused strike from the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, followed by the devastating rain of swords.

Shangguan Ruolin had used this move against mere mortals, partly to demonstrate to Shu Han, and partly because she was truly angered.

This move directly wiped out all the people in the Whirlwind stronghold. Luckily, the purple-robed cultivator had been held in Shu Han's dark hand, sparing him from the disaster. Seeing such a terrifying offensive, he was scared into fainting.

Shangguan Ruolin beckoned, and the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword returned from the ground to her hand. At this point, she was trembling, nearly collapsing in mid-air. Shu Han quickly moved forward to support her.

"Too much magic power was used." Shangguan Ruolin, panting, wiped away the mark of the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, turning it into a masterless object. She placed it in Shu Han's hand and said, "This sword has accompanied me through the long Foundation Establishment stage. Now I give it to you. You must make good use of it."

Shu Han hesitated, "Linlin, this..."

Shangguan Ruolin laughed, "With my current cultivation, I no longer need this sword. Hurry up and accept it! Don't force me to get angry!" With that, she bit one of Shu Han's fingers and then pointed it at the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword.

The Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword absorbed Shu Han's blood, immediately connecting with his spirit. They became one.

"This..."

A trace of blood-stained Shangguan Ruolin's lips as she smiled triumphantly at Shu Han, "You stay here and interrogate that cultivator from the Purple Sun Sect. I'll go and rescue the children trapped in the cellar."

"I'll go! You're too tired."

Shangguan Ruolin shook her head, "They all know you, but they haven't seen me in this form." With that, she broke free from Shu Han's hand and flew into the Whirlwind stronghold. Watching Shangguan Ruolin's departing figure, Shu Han could only shake his head helplessly.

Next, he put away the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword and brought the unconscious purple-robed cultivator in front of him with the black claw.

Shu Han released a chill of millennia-old profound ice from his finger, instantly awakening the man.

Seeing Shu Han, he immediately knelt down in mid-air, "Thank you, senior, for saving me. I'm forever grateful."

Shu Han smiled, "You are a cultivator from Purple Sun Sect?"

The man replied, "I am a cultivator of Purple Sun Sect, named Xu Zimo, and my master is the mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator Cheng Yuhuan. I wonder who that lady was just now, why did she attack the Whirlwind stronghold? Could senior inform me, so I can apologize when she returns."

Shu Han asked, "First, answer my question, Xu Zimo. As a member of the Purple Sun Sect, why are you controlling the gangs here?"

Xu Zimo replied, "Replying to senior, I was dispatched by my sect to collect snow lotus from the snow mountain for pill refining. After a while, I realized that even mortals could do this work. Instead of wasting my cultivation time, it was better to hand over this hard labor to the mortals."

Shu Han nodded, "You're clever, controlling the gangs to make the mortals here work for you."

Xu Zimo chuckled, "It's just a little trick, not worth mentioning."

"How old are you this year? When did you reach the eleventh level of Qi Refining? What's your position in the sect? Who are you friends with, and who are your enemies? What supernatural abilities and spells do you master? Come, tell me everything, no detail is too small."

"Eh? Why is senior asking these questions?"

Shu Han's tone turned cold, "When I ask, you answer. What gives you the right to question me?"

Xu Zimo was immediately startled and quickly began to answer Shu Han's questions one by one.

Noticing that Shu Han was interested in his life, Xu Zimo thought that the senior wanted to befriend him. So, he spoke enthusiastically about his life, recounting both big and small events to Shu Han in detail.

Shu Han followed along, making up a bit of his own stories, guiding Xu Zimo's conversation.

The two seemed like friends with no secrets, chatting about everything under the sun.

Listening to this conversation, Shu Han couldn't help but laugh. He thought it was a miracle that someone as naive as Xu Zimo could survive in the deceptive world of cultivation.

Taking a sip of tea, Xu Zimo said, "...So, I temporarily left the blessed land of Purple Sun Sect to experience the vast mortal world. Fortunately, I found these mortals to help, so my cultivation didn't fall behind. Ah, hearing about all the wonders in the cultivation world, I really hope to make a fortune one day and return to the Purple Sun Sect in glory, to slap those who looked down on me."

Shu Han couldn't help but laugh. Then, he calmly said, "Collecting snow lotus is a task that, if you did it yourself, would just be a bit time-consuming, with no danger to your life. But those mortals, carrying the chill of snow lotus, climbing the cliffs, can easily fall to their deaths if they're not careful. I wonder how many mortals have lost their lives for your leisure."

Xu Zimo was taken aback, "What does it matter if mortals die? What does it have to do with cultivators like you and me?"

Shu Han nodded approvingly, "That's right. If I didn't know these mortals, I might ignore what you're doing. But unfortunately, these mortals have saved me and taken me in, so I have to consider things from their perspective. From their perspective, you're the culprit who killed their husbands, fathers, sons."

Hearing this, Xu Zimo became agitated and retorted, "Senior... You... Where are you getting this from?! I've basically been sitting in this stronghold meditating and drinking tea... It's not my fault!"

Whoosh!

A chill erupted from Shu Han's chest, instantly freezing Xu Zimo into an ice sculpture.

"Zhang Village was unfortunate to encounter you, and you were unfortunate to encounter me. Be smarter in your next life."

Chapter 72. Cultivating an External Incarnation

The sun set in the west, and the dispirited villagers of Zhang Village suddenly saw a group of people coming from the east.

Under the setting sun, Shangguan Ruolin's small figure cast a long shadow. Behind her was a group of children, slowly moving towards Zhang Village.

At this moment, Shangguan Ruolin was indeed the child king of Zhang Village. All the children followed quietly behind her, without crying or making noise.

The villagers were overjoyed and cried when they saw the children miraculously return. They rushed to find their own children in the group.

Madam Song was weeping as she held her child and Shangguan Ruolin, unwilling to let go.

The village was instantly filled with cries of joy as the villagers wept for happiness.

The village elder looked at this scene with tears streaming down his face. Although he didn't understand what had happened, the return of the children meant that Zhang Village had hope for the future.

After a while, Shu Han brought a cart filled with frozen bodies into Zhang Village.

Shu Han explained to the village elder that they had encountered a fairy on their way who had heard their cry for help. The fairy had helped them eradicate the Whirlwind Gang, save the children, and found the bodies of the missing villagers in the snow mountain.

Although the story was strange, all the children told the same story. They all said a beautiful fairy sister had come to the cellar to save them. The villagers believed the story since all the children said the same thing, no matter how bizarre it sounded.

Moreover, with the eradication of the troublesome Whirlwind Gang, a massive burden was lifted off the villagers' minds. This caused the once-troubled Zhang Village to instantly become cheerful.

Shangguan Ruolin stood next to Shu Han, watching as each family joyously took their children back home. She said, "The happiness of mortals is so simple."

"Because their hardships come easily, their happiness also comes simply. A small cultivator at the eleventh level of Qi Refining can disturb the peace of thousands of households," Shu Han replied.

Shangguan Ruolin looked at the burned ruins and asked, "What should we do about these burned houses, should we use magic power to help rebuild them?"

Shu Han patted his chest and laughed, "Why use magic power for such a small matter? As a well-known young man in the area, I'll help them rebuild. Based on our schedule, we will still live in Zhang Village for more than half a year."

Shangguan Ruolin gave a sweet smile, "Then you better work quickly. This time I want to sleep in a big bed."

...…

So, a new phase of cultivation began for Shu Han in Zhang Village.

One of his avatars started replicating Thousand-year Snow Lotus with the black jar, mass-producing Clear Bright Spiritual Eye elixir, while another avatar found a cave on Willow Mountain, took out the body of the old man in grey from the storage bag, and started creating an external incarnation, following the form of Xu Zimo and combining various materials.

Meanwhile, the main body stayed by Shangguan Ruolin's side, protecting her, and with her assistance, continued to digest the fragments of the Golden Core.

The External Incarnation Technique was very extraordinary. During the cultivation process, Shu Han felt his mental power growing rapidly. This was different from his avatar technique, where both avatars were operating on the main body's mental power, whereas the external incarnation technique first doubled the mental power before transferring it to the incarnation.

Once the incarnation was successfully cultivated, it was as if Shu Han had an extra life.

On the other hand, the Clear Bright Spiritual Eye elixir showed its magical effects when the Thousand-year Snow Lotus was added. Upon the first use, Shu Han felt as if his eyes had been reborn, with a faint divine light emerging, and his spiritual consciousness also benefited from the elixir.

After using it continuously for ninety-nine days, not only could his eyes see through illusions, but they could also see through objects! He thought to himself, no wonder he couldn't hide his true face from Chen Yuehua with the mask, the Clear Bright Spiritual Eye was so miraculous even at the minor achievement stage!

However, when his eyes looked at Shangguan Ruolin, he received a hard slap.

These days, Shangguan Ruolin had also been using the elixir to cultivate Clear Bright Spiritual Eye and had reached the same level.

"If you use these thieving eyes to look at other women, be careful, I might gouge them out!"

Shu Han: ...

However, Shangguan Ruolin still highly praised this eye technique, stating that it could be on par with the insight of a magic treasure at the Nascent Soul stage if further refined.

However, after reaching the minor achievement stage of Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, the effect of the Thousand-year Snow Lotus was not as potent, and continued use did not bring about the rapid progress as at the beginning.

With the two avatars handling all tasks, Shu Han's main body during this period, aside from helping villagers build houses and plow fields, wholeheartedly devoted himself to his cultivation. With the help of Shangguan Ruolin, his cultivation level approached the initial peak of the Foundation Establishment stage in less than half a year.

His body, under the tempering of the ten thousand years of profound ice, became increasingly robust and sturdy. Although far from reaching the state of Heavenly Cold Body, it exceeded cultivators of the same or even higher stages.

Life in Zhang Village was tranquil and peaceful. Time flew, and half a year passed in the blink of an eye.

One day, Shu Han was teaching Shangguan Ruolin how to fish by the riverbank. His fishing hook hit the mark frequently, and he often hooked a big fish. However, Shangguan Ruolin's side was deserted, only catching a small fish in half a day. This made Shangguan Ruolin's little face turn red.

"I don't understand why we are not cultivating during the day and instead doing this!"

Shu Han laughed and said, "I've reached a minor bottleneck now. With your Golden Core fragments in my body, I have plenty of spiritual energy, but I still haven't broken through. I think I need to free my mind. Over-focusing on cultivation may backfire."

Pointing at the fishing rod, Shangguan Ruolin said, "Is that an excuse for your lack of talent? Even with my Golden Core's assistance, you can't break through the bottleneck of the initial peak of the Foundation Establishment stage. How will you survive in the cultivation world in the future?"

Whoosh!

As they spoke, Shu Han hooked another big fish. This made Shangguan Ruolin grit her teeth in annoyance. She said angrily, "If you want to eat fish, just say so!" Then she slapped her palm on the water, causing high splashes, and a bunch of fish floated up with their bellies upturned.

Shu Han: ... I was baiting the hook, and you're just blasting them!

Over the past half year, under Shu Han's nurturing with spirit stones and elixirs, Shangguan Ruolin finally managed to restore her cultivation to the Qi Refining stage. Seeing her annoyed, Shu Han could only give a wry smile, walked over, and personally instructed her on fishing techniques.

Shu Han moved closer to Shangguan Ruolin and said, "Linlin, my cultivation level is not as high as yours, but I believe that cultivation is like fishing. It requires a balance of tension and relaxation, enough patience, and only then can you see the moon when the clouds clear."

Shangguan Ruolin snorted disdainfully, "Humph! A Foundation Establishment stage kid teaching me cultivation..."

Suddenly, the fishing rod in Shangguan Ruolin's tight grip vibrated. She immediately became excited and said with a flushed face, "I've got a bite! I've got one! It's a big fish!"

As she was about to quickly reel in the line, Shu Han held her back, saying, "Don't rush. Keep your patience and tire it out! Use a combination of loosening and tightening, fight against it, wear out its strength, and reel it in when it's tired."

In the end, Shangguan Ruolin reeled in the line, pulling a big fish that weighed more than ten pounds onto the shore. She joyously hugged the struggling big fish and proudly said, "Shu Han, look! This one is bigger than yours!"

However, at this moment, Shu Han was completely lost in his thoughts.

"Shu Han? What's wrong with you?"

After a long time, Shu Han came back to his senses, looking somewhat perplexed, and said to Shangguan Ruolin, "I've suddenly broken through to the initial peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, and... I've also completed my external incarnation."

Chapter 73. Purple Sun Sect

Riding on the Heavenly Quadrant Sword Formation, Shu Han was heading south alone.

Crossing over mountains, rivers, and vast plains, Shu Han finally saw a range of mountains exuding a spiritual purple aura. From afar, countless black spots were rising and falling amongst these mountains. These were all cultivators riding the wind. At first glance, there were at least several hundred cultivators moving in and out of the mountain range enveloped by purple aura. After a five-day journey with the cultivation level of the 12th level of Qi Refining, he finally arrived at a major sect north of the Great Cloud, the Purple Sun Sect.

According to Shu Han's investigation, the head of the Purple Sun Sect is at the peak of the late Core Formation stage. There are thousands of disciples in the Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment stages, and there are also several elders in the Core Formation stage. It is indeed one of the six major sects in the north of the Great Cloud. The Immaculate Realm, which will open in half a year, is jointly initiated by these six major sects.

Shu Han, bearing the face of Xu Zimo, recalled Xu Zimo's life while riding his sword towards the Purple Sun Sect. For the external incarnation, he had used the Purple Sun Sect's inheritance method - Purple Cloud Ascending Art. When refining the external incarnation, he used this method as a foundation. After the external incarnation was completed, this method naturally reached the peak of Qi Refining.

This incomplete method was obtained from Xu Zimo's storage bag. It only recorded the cultivation methods of the Qi Refining stage and had the high-level spells removed. Shu Han realized that in this cultivation world, methods are easy to obtain, but spells are hard to find.

In terms of power, this method was far inferior to the Mystical Dragon Triple Rotation Divine Art. However, Shu Han dared not use this method for his external incarnation. Firstly, he was afraid that the people of Purple Sun Sect would find something amiss. Secondly, he was afraid that this method would directly burst his external incarnation. After all, the cultivation of the external incarnation cannot grow.

Approaching the Purple Sun Sect, Shu Han put away his Heavenly Quadrant Sword Formation and switched to Xu Zimo's usual high-grade magic tool, the Black Gold Folding Dragon Saber. To Shu Han's professional eye, this saber was absolute garbage.

Even if without the Mystical Dragon Triple Rotation Divine Art and numerous top-tier magic tools for protection, Shu Han's incarnation was not weak in combat power. It was basically not flustered when encountering an ordinary Foundation Establishment stage cultivator.

The reason was the twelve bottles of Seven-Poison Water he had refined and stored in his storage bag, along with two hundred Fire God Talismans, and the Flame Sun Talisman he had begged from Shangguan Ruolin.

His combat power was lower than when Shu Han first arrived at Great Cloud, but his spiritual sense now was genuinely at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, far surpassing his perception and sensory abilities during his Qi Refining days.

Just as he was about to enter the Purple Sun Sect, a man in purple with thick eyebrows approached him with a smile, starting a conversation, "My name is Ren Tianyi, a cultivator of the 11th level of Qi Refining. May I ask if you are also returning from an external assignment?"

Shu Han looked at Ren Tianyi, feeling something strange with his newly trained Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, but he could not see anything specific due to his insufficient cultivation. He cautiously replied, "My name is Xu Zimo, are you also returning from an external assignment?"

Ren Tianyi laughed, "That's right. I received a mission from the sect three years ago to collect Sunflower Water Lotus Leaves in the Blue Wave Pool. I have now completed the mission and am preparing to return to the Purple Sun Sect. I noticed that you are also alone. Why don't we join each other?"

Joining each other?

During his conversation with Xu Zimo, he had never mentioned Ren Tianyi. Presumably, they did not know each other. Someone he did not know came up to strike up a conversation.

Then, Shu Han thought that he was new here and unfamiliar with everything. If he followed behind him, he might be able to learn more about the rules and details of the Purple Sun Sect.

"That sounds good, after you, junior brother."

So, Shu Han and this suddenly appeared Ren Tianyi flew toward the Purple Sun Sect together.

From what he remembered, Xu Zimo had once said that returning disciples from outside assignments needed to first check the completion of their tasks at the Destiny Pavilion. Those who had not completed their task quota were not allowed to return to the sect.

Just as Shu Han was wondering which building outside the mountain was the Destiny Pavilion, Ren Tianyi swaggered towards the sect gate. Shu Han hurriedly stopped him, surprised, "Junior brother, don't you need to submit the task materials at the Destiny Pavilion? If you enter like this, I'm afraid you will be stopped by the law enforcement disciples."

"Ah?"

Ren Tianyi immediately laughed, "Haha, I've been in the mortal world for so long that I forgot the rules of our sect. Thanks for the reminder, senior brother!"

Seeing Ren Tianyi's behavior, Shu Han couldn't help but suspect something was off about him. Unfortunately, his external incarnation was not his true body, and his Clear Bright Spiritual Eye was just beginning to develop, so he could not see Ren Tianyi's ulterior motive.

However, Shu Han didn't want to meddle, his main goal was to compete for the qualification to go to the Immaculate Realm. Who Ren Tianyi was and what he wanted to do was none of his business.

So Shu Han looked at the crowd and saw a pavilion with the most people coming and going. He focused his gaze and sure enough, he saw the three characters of Destiny Pavilion. He then led Ren Tianyi towards the pavilion.

The pavilion was bustling with people, like a checkpoint, checking disciples entering and leaving the Purple Sun Sect.

Shu Han and Ren Tianyi arrived at a checkpoint. The disciple at the checkpoint, who was at the 12th level of Qi Refining, sat bored and said, "Returning from an outside assignment? Hand over your mission token and materials."

Ren Tianyi took out his mission token and three hundred Sunflower Water Lotus Leaves and handed them to the disciple. The disciple took the token, glanced at it, and read, "Three hundred Sunflower Water Lotus Leaves, hmm, but you've only handed in two hundred and fifty. The amount is not enough, mission uncompleted, not allowed to return to the sect."

What?

Ren Tianyi was stunned, "Senior brother, please look carefully, these are indeed three hundred."

The disciple glanced at Ren Tianyi impatiently, "Is this your first day?" With that, he waved his hand, and seventy Sunflower Water Lotus Leaves directly went into his storage bag, he said, "Now there are only two hundred and thirty, hurry up and get out!"

Damn!

Shu Han couldn't help but curse inwardly, this was outright extortion!

Ren Tianyi was trembling with anger, slamming his fist on the table, "Say that again! It was clearly you who swallowed my seventy lotus leaves and now you're falsely accusing me!"

The man snorted coldly, "Humph!"

Immediately, he stood up and shouted, "Someone come. There's a demonic cultivator trying to infiltrate our Purple Sun Sect! Quickly, someone gets him..."

Before he could finish his words, he was stopped by Shu Han, who quietly handed him a small bottle of Qi Gathering Pills, "Senior brother, my junior brother here doesn't understand the rules, please accept this token of our appreciation, there's no need to make a big fuss, we're all brothers of the same sect."

The man looked at the Qi Gathering Pills in his hand. His anger subsided, laughed, "It's okay, it's okay, it's you, junior brother, who understands the rules, are truly from our Purple Sun Sect. As for this guy, you have to manage him better in the future, or it won't be so easy to talk next time."

"Understood, understood!"

Shu Han pulled Ren Tianyi over, handed in his token and snow lotus, "Here are my materials, senior brother, please count."

However, the man didn't even look at them, handed over two purple tokens directly, and played with the Qi Gathering Pills, "Enough, no need to look. Junior brother, you've returned from an external assignment, you might not know. Recently, there have been quite a few demonic cultivators trying to infiltrate our sect. In the future, when you move around within the sect, you must carry this token. Otherwise, if you are caught by the law enforcement team, it won't be easy to handle."

Shu Han saluted, "Thank you for the reminder, senior brother."

Then, he led Ren Tianyi out of the Destiny Pavilion and into the Purple Sun Sect.

Ren Tianyi was still fuming, "Letting such a petty man get away with it! Purple Sun Sect is even worse than the demon cultivators!"

Shu Han sighed, "Ah, just bear with it for a while, one has to bow their head under someone else's roof."