Chapter 36.2 - Arc 3: Disaster at Sea | Chapter 36: Sea Fight
Translator: Lynn
Yun Lie walked over to the bed and gently tapped his finger on the child’s forehead, remarking, “This child possesses dragon qi, which emanates from his spirit node and rises straight to the heavens. You should establish a secret technique to conceal it.”
Knowing that his friend would never bring him harm, Xu Ziqing promptly set up the concealment technique before asking, “Brother Yun, can everyone see this Dragon Qi…?”
Yun Lie replied, “If you channel your spiritual energy into your eyes, you will be able to perceive it.”
Following Yun Lie’s guidance, Xu Ziqing infused his eyes with spiritual energy, causing them to emit a green glow. He then witnessed a golden orb between the child’s eyebrows, gradually taking the form of a soaring dragon that disappeared into the sky. The dragon’s figure was ethereal, lacking solidity, and though it exhibited powerful movements, it did not evoke fear.
Even Xu Ziqing, who usually maintained a composed demeanour, felt a slight unease upon witnessing this dragon energy.
A person with dragon energy possessed a special status, indicating a connection to the celestial order.
In the mortal realm, individuals with dragon qi emanating from their brow were considered descendants of the royal family.
Considering these factors, there was only one plausible identity for this boy.
He was not only a mortal but also hailed from the southern region.
However, the question remained: How did he end up in the Upper Nine Continents?
This puzzling situation only deepened Xu Ziqing’s sense of uncertainty.
While he contemplated, Yun Lie spoke, “To ensure his safety, you need to seal his Dragon Qi.”
A glimmer of hope appeared in Xu Ziqing’s eyes as he inquired, “How can I seal it? Can you teach me, Brother Yun?”
Yun Lie extended his palm and swiftly manipulated his fingers, demonstrating a hand technique. He explained, “This is the method for sealing the spirit.”
Xu Ziqing committed the technique to memory and practised it in private several times before executing it successfully. He proudly showcased his achievement to Yun Lie, saying, “Brother Yun, take a look at this.”
Yun Lie nodded in approval and commented, “Well done.”
Xu Ziqing smiled in response but found that Yun Lie had vanished when he turned to address him again. Unperturbed by his friend’s sudden disappearance, Xu Ziqing assumed that Yun Lie had appeared solely to teach him the spirit-sealing technique.
Accustomed to Yun Lie’s unpredictable nature, Xu Ziqing paid no mind to his friend’s sudden departure.
Examining the boy more closely, Xu Ziqing realized that the injuries were severe, and it would take some time for him to regain consciousness.
With only one jade brick remaining, which might not be sufficient to cover their expenses, and other matters requiring his attention, Xu Ziqing decided to make his way to the nearby cultivator’s market.
Xu Ziqing strolled along the stone path, and after a brief walk, he encountered another lovely maid, distinct from the previous one but equally elegant and graceful.
The beautiful maid greeted him with a smile, “May I assist you, esteemed senior?”
Xu Ziqing smiled softly and inquired, “My dear, is there a market nearby?”
Enchanted by his handsome appearance and high cultivation level, the beautiful maid blushed and replied softly, “If senior doesn’t mind, I can guide you there.”
Assuming it was the Immortal Residence’s customary hospitality, Xu Ziqing graciously accepted, saying, “Please lead the way.”
The beautiful maid led him, and as they departed, they encountered a small alleyway guarded by a forbidden barrier accessible only to cultivators.
Since he had arrived at his destination, Xu Ziqing addressed the maidservant, “Thank you for guiding me. I can manage from here.”
The maid’s face turned pale, but she didn’t dare to insist and forced a smile, “Please, senior.”
With a faint smile, Xu Ziqing proceeded without looking back.
Unbeknownst to Xu Ziqing, he had inadvertently missed out on a potential romantic encounter. Instead, his thoughts centered around selling his spiritual herbs at a good price and pondering whether there was anything he needed that could aid him.
Compared to the market in Shangquzhou, the local market appeared smaller with less organized lanes, devoid of anyone to offer guidance. Xu Ziqing approached the nearest shop and inquired about the sale of spiritual herbs. The shopkeeper, who possessed a lower cultivation level than Xu Ziqing, was well-versed in such matters. Xu Ziqing promptly headed in that direction.
In the vicinity, there was only one shop named “Zhicao Pavilion,” which boasted a decent size and a pristine interior. The delicate aroma of herbs permeated the air, and the person in charge of the pavilion was a burly man.
Observing that the man was at the third level of Qi refinement and appeared fierce yet lacked an intimidating aura, Xu Ziqing approached him and asked, “Does the shopkeeper purchase spirit grass?”
As the man noticed Xu Ziqing’s courteous demeanor, his face twitched, displaying a hint of a smile that morphed into an increasingly sinister expression. He responded, “Yes, senior, please feel free to present them.”
The man’s straightforwardness didn’t deter Xu Ziqing. He retrieved three leaf packets and placed them on the counter, stating, “Here are the herbs. Kindly evaluate them, shopkeeper.”
The burly man carefully received the packets, displaying his expertise while opening them. Xu Ziqing found solace in witnessing the man’s familiarity with the task and entrusted him to proceed.
Audible words escaped the man’s lips, “Fifteen top-grade Changyan grass, eight top-grade Flying Star grass, three top-grade Scorpion grass…” Upon finishing his assessment of the contents within the three packets, he exclaimed in astonishment, “Senior, you’ve made an exceptional harvest!”
Xu Ziqing responded with a gentle smile, asking, “What is their value?”
The man’s cheeks twitched once more, his smile widening, “One stalk of Changyan grass is equivalent to eight catties of white jade, making fifteen stalks worth one hundred and twenty catties. Flying Star grass values at ten catties of white jade per plant, totalling eighty catties for the eight plants. As for the Scorpion grass, being the rarest and of top-grade quality…” He pondered momentarily before continuing, “I can only offer the price of twenty-five catties of white jade per plant, esteemed senior.”
Xu Ziqing nodded in approval, deeming the offer appropriate.
The man was delighted to see Xu Ziqing’s lack of objection and promptly counted, “The total value amounts to two hundred and seventy-five catties of white jade. Would you prefer to exchange them for spirit pearls?”
After a brief contemplation, Xu Ziqing nodded, affirming, “I will follow your suggestion, shopkeeper.”
With the transaction completed, the burly man presented two spirit pearls and fifteen pouches of white jade, each containing five catties. He happily retrieved a jade box to organize and store the acquired spiritual herbs. It was a rare occasion to obtain such a substantial quantity of high-quality herbs all at once.
Just then, a woman entered the pavilion, her cultivation level at the second stage of Qi refinement. However, she was accompanied by two cultivators, both at the seventh stage of Qi refinement. The fact that she could enlist cultivators of such caliber as her escorts indicated her elevated status.
Observing the woman engrossed in conversation with the shopkeeper, Xu Ziqing assumed he could leave the pavilion without drawing any attention.
But to his surprise, the woman turned her gaze towards him and inquired, “You have the patience to explain things to me?”
It appeared that she had visited the shop to purchase spiritual herbs but was put off by the demeanor of the burly man. Encountering Xu Ziqing’s handsome appearance, she requested his assistance in making the selections.
Xu Ziqing furrowed his brows, glancing at the shopkeeper’s vexed expression and the two wary seventh-stage cultivators, he inwardly sighed.
Approaching the woman, Xu Ziqing replied, “What would you like me to explain?”
The woman raised an eyebrow, remarking, “You certainly lack a temper.”
Xu Ziqing shook his head, choosing not to respond directly. Instead, he said, “Just let me know what you wish to purchase, and I will provide my recommendations.” It was a trivial matter, and being a man, he saw no need to make a fuss. Since she only sought an explanation for a few spiritual herbs, he could oblige and depart.
As the woman’s anger gradually dissipated, she said, “I’m seeking something to replenish spiritual power. Do you have any suggestions?”
After pondering for a moment, Xu Ziqing replied, “If you’re looking for attribute matching, the metal element has Golden Dragon Grass, the wood element has Biyingen, the water element has Feishuang Fruit, the fire element has Danyang Grass, and the earth element has Liuren Grass. All of them possess the capability to replenish spiritual power, but their effects can be further enhanced when refined into elixirs.”
Impressed by his knowledgeable response, the woman’s eyebrows relaxed, and she turned to the burly man, inquiring, “How much do you have in stock?”
Eager and attentive, the burly man proceeded to provide her with the necessary details.
Observing that the matter had been resolved, Xu Ziqing turned around, intending to take his leave.
Upon seeing Xu Ziqing’s departure, the woman seemed poised to speak again but instead exchanged a few hushed words with a cultivator by her side. Her eyebrows furrowed as she declared, “What does it matter if he’s at the seventh stage of Qi refinement? Am I afraid of him?”
Nevertheless, she restrained herself and ceased to trouble Xu Ziqing, allowing him to leave without further hindrance.
Xu Ziqing paid no heed to the incident, as he had sufficient funds and an important task at hand. He made his way to Duo Bao Xuan, a shop not far away, with the intention of making a purchase.
Browsing the shop, he stopped in front of a counter filled with talismans.
His purpose for coming here was to acquire a transmission jade sword.
As is widely known, cultivators beyond the Foundation Establishment stage can cultivate their divine sense, enabling them to perceive the minutest details within a 10-mile radius. They can communicate with others and traverse vast distances in an instant.
However, for those below the Foundation Establishment level, communication over long distances requires the use of a jade sword to transmit messages.
The price of this jade sword was not low. A top-quality one would cost ten catties of white jade. Once activated, it was impervious to interception by cultivators below the Yuan Yuan stage and could cover ten thousand miles in an instant, making it an excellent tool for transmitting letters.
Since Xu Ziqing had already decided to acquire one, he spared no expense and bought two, keeping one as a spare. He spent a total of 30 catties of white jade, nearly depleting half of the white jade he possessed.
Next, he visited the medicine cabinet and obtained a bottle of “Fragrant Chi Dew,” a highly beneficial medicine for mortals. While it held remarkable restorative properties in the mundane world, it had limited effects on cultivators.
Xu Ziqing purchased it for the boy in his room. Although the boy possessed wood energy to nurture his vitality, it was insufficient, and the medicine would provide additional nourishment.
With all his necessary items procured, Xu Ziqing wasted no time and headed back to the Immortal Residence.
Upon his return, he found the restriction still in place, and the boy remained unconscious, as he had expected. After examining the boy’s condition and putting his mind at ease, Xu Ziqing retrieved the two jade swords.
Taking a moment to contemplate, Xu Ziqing picked up the first sword and swiftly transmitted information about the collusion between the Tian family, the Sea Beast, and the Thunderfire School. Once the transmission was complete, he dispatched the jade sword.
While the Xu clan had shown kindness to Xu Ziqing, they had also abandoned him within the secret realm, severing that bond. However, Steward He of the clan had imparted a valuable lesson to Xu Ziqing. Thus, by sending out this jade sword, Xu Ziqing aimed to reciprocate the favor. Barring any unfortunate encounters with someone at the Yuan Yuan stage intercepting the message, the jade sword would be in Xu Zhengtian’s possession within three moments. This would allow the Xu family to prepare in advance if they were unable to resolve the impending crisis.
Next, Xu Ziqing picked up the second jade sword and passed it to Zhang Jiu. Fortunately, when Zhang Jiu was aboard the spirit ship, Xu Ziqing placed a restriction on him, which enabled Xu Ziqing to recognize his aura and send him a message now.
In this message, Xu Ziqing kept it concise, reporting his safety and expressing his concern for Zhang Jiu. He concluded with the words, “We will have a drink and talk again if we have the chance.”
Having completed his communication with Zhang Jiu, Xu Ziqing felt a sense of relief. He had done all that he could, fulfilling his duties and following the guidance of fate.
Three days later, Xu Ziqing woke up from his meditation.
Having reached the seventh level of Qi refinement, Xu Ziqing had successfully opened 12 acupuncture points, leaving 33 more to unlock before he could break through to the eighth level. However, achieving that breakthrough required a considerable amount of effort. Despite practising tirelessly day and night in recent days, he had only managed to activate one acupuncture point.
As he prepared to continue his meditation, he suddenly heard murmuring sounds coming from his bed. Delighted, Xu Ziqing wondered if the child had finally regained consciousness. Excitedly, he rose and went to check on him.
The boy had been in a prolonged state of unconsciousness, remaining silent throughout. However, his breathing had become steady, and a healthy flush had returned to his face, indicating signs of improvement. Xu Ziqing was surprised by the quick recovery, as the boy had regained consciousness in just three days. It was evident that the boy possessed a strong will to survive.
As Xu Ziqing sat down on the bed, the boy abruptly leaped up, drawing a dagger hidden in his trouser leg, and thrust it towards Xu Ziqing’s heart!
Though Xu Ziqing heard the swishing sound, in his eyes, the boy’s movements appeared sluggish. He swiftly reached out and caught the boy’s wrist, preventing the dagger from reaching its target.
The boy’s eyes were filled with bloodlust, resembling the fierce gaze of a wild beast. Even when faced with the gentle and refined figure before him, he remained on high alert, showing no signs of easing his guard.
Understanding that the boy must have endured much suffering, Xu Ziqing chose not to react and spoke gently, “Don’t move too much. Your old wounds have yet to fully heal, so be cautious.”
In a hoarse voice, the boy asked, “Who are you?”
Xu Ziqing’s gaze softened, unaffected by the boy’s tone, and he replied, “I am Xu Ziqing. I found you unconscious on the beach and brought you here. If you don’t believe me, you can check your own condition.”
The boy was partially convinced, and the fierceness in his eyes diminished slightly. However, he maintained his grip on the dagger and retreated to the edge of the bed.
“Why did you save me?” the boy warily inquired.
Xu Ziqing smiled faintly and responded, “I saw you and saved you. There is no underlying motive behind it.”
Only then did the boy cautiously shift his body, preparing to leave the bed. As soon as his feet touched the ground, he swiftly made his way toward the door, stating, “In that case, thank you very much. I’m leaving!”
Extending his arms, Xu Ziqing swiftly caught hold of the boy, preventing him from escaping.
Reacting quickly, the boy contorted his body and assumed an aggressive stance. “You truly deceived me!” he exclaimed.
Shaking his head, Xu Ziqing asserted, “I have not deceived you. It’s just that you really cannot leave.”
Unconvinced, the boy spoke sternly, “Why can’t I go? What is your plan?”
The boy appeared as fearful as a startled bird, ready to fly away at the slightest provocation, evoking a sense of pity from Xu Ziqing.
In his previous life, despite experiencing illness, he had never endured suffering like this. Although he faced numerous challenges in his current life, he managed to overcome them and turn them into successes. However, seeing the immense suffering the young boy had already endured at such a tender age, causing him to be wary of trusting others, Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but feel deep sympathy for him.
Lost in his thoughts, Xu Ziqing sighed and reassured, “I have no ulterior motives.” Speaking gently, he softly inquired, “Do you remember where you were before you lost consciousness?”
The boy pondered, “Wasn’t it in Lower Qizhou?”
Xu Ziqing nodded and corrected him, “That’s correct. However, we are currently in Upper Qizhou.”
Even Xu Ziqing was surprised to discover from the market that this place was not Upper Yuzhou as he initially assumed, but rather Upper Qizhou. He speculated that the power of the “dragon sucking in the water” must have carried him here, and it seemed likely that the boy experienced a similar fate.
Immediately, the boy grew agitated and exclaimed, “What are you talking about? I have always been in the Lower Nine Continents, not the Upper Continents!”
With a gentle smile, Xu Ziqing responded, “That’s why I warned you not to go out.”
Realizing the boy’s growing agitation, Xu Ziqing didn’t want to agitate him any further. After a moment of contemplation, he extended his palm, from which a vibrant blue grass sprouted. It shimmered with a radiant glow, exhibiting slender and exquisite leaves.
The boy’s eyes widened in astonishment.
Extending an inviting gesture, Xu Ziqing said, “If you don’t believe me, you can touch it.”
The boy hesitated momentarily and suggested, “If you allow me to hold a dagger against you…”
As he uttered those words, he felt that he had crossed a line. However, he remained defiant, keeping his gaze fixed on Xu Ziqing’s face, waiting for his response.
Xu Ziqing softly replied, “As you wish.”
Subsequently, the boy stepped forward and placed the dagger against Xu Ziqing’s waist. Yet, when Xu Ziqing remained motionless, a hint of hesitation flickered in the boy’s eyes. He slightly angled the dagger away from Xu Ziqing to avoid accidentally causing harm.
A smile formed in Xu Ziqing’s eyes as he lowered his palm towards the boy’s gaze.
The boy held his breath and swiftly touched the leaf of the grass with his finger, only to feel its warmth and moisture. The stems and veins of the grass appeared vivid and vibrant, surpassing the usual appearance of ordinary grass and trees.
It was undeniably real!
However, if it was real, how could a blade of grass emerge from a person’s palm?
Being still a young child, he naturally became captivated by it, momentarily dropping his guard.
Unable to contain his amusement, Xu Ziqing smiled and with a wave of his sleeve, the boy felt the world twist around him, suddenly finding himself seated on the edge of the bed.
At that moment, he realized that this man truly harbored no ill intent. Otherwise, he would not have allowed a small dagger to approach his eyes if he possessed such extraordinary abilities.
Witnessing the boy’s guarded demeanor dissipating, Xu Ziqing suggested, “This grass is a type of wild vegetable that can satiate hunger. Why don’t you pluck some and taste it?” After speaking, he picked a piece and placed it in his mouth, then smiled at the boy.
Curiosity piqued within the boy, but he maintained a stoic expression as he gripped the grass with slight force. To his astonishment, he observed the roots of the grass gradually emerge from his palm, leaving no trace or harm.
“What kind of trick is this?” he exclaimed in amazement, shoving the grass into his mouth and savoring its sweetness and flavor. The warmth spread in his belly, satisfying his already famished stomach.
Observing the boy’s amazed reaction, Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but feel a childlike joy and said, “This is not a trick; it is a technique.”
The boy gazed at him blankly and asked, “What kind of magic is this?”
Smiling, Xu Ziqing performed the same feat with the blue grass still in his hand, showcasing it once again for the boy to witness.
Although the boy didn’t fully comprehend, he suddenly heard a distinct cry, and a gust of wind swept down from above. A majestic eagle descended from the sky, its powerful wings grazing his face with a slightly painful sensation. The eagle exuded a fierce presence, its talons sharp as steel, capable of shattering gold and stone!
The eagle pecked the grass out and brought it to the boy’s mouth.
Seeing that it was Chonghua, Xu Ziqing chuckled and scolded, “What nonsense, scaring people out of nowhere!”
Perched on the railing, the hawk had gone unnoticed by the boy as he had only been focused on Xu Ziqing upon waking up. Startled by the sudden appearance of the eagle, the boy became aware of its presence.
The eagle emitted a friendly cry and tossed the grass it had snatched to the boy’s side with a tilt of its head.
Amused by the sight, Xu Ziqing laughed and remarked, “Chonghua seems to like you very much; he’s giving you a gift!”
The boy gratefully accepted the grass, still somewhat stunned, and said, “Thank you.”
Finding the boy’s innocence endearing, Xu Ziqing was tempted to play a little mischief. He held the boy’s arm and guided him in casting a wind spell, propelling them straight out of the room and hovering about ten feet above the ground. They spun around for a while before safely landing on the ground.
Taking a deep breath, the boy turned his head to face Xu Ziqing, his throat moving subtly, his voice choked, “Are you an immortal?”
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