Chapter 123 - Arc 9: Disciple Recruitment | Chapter 123: Jile Peak Recruits
Translator: Lynn
Yun Lie halted, retracted his hand, and gave a nod. “Cultivators must shed their illusory innocence and cultivate a genuine self-awareness. I brought you to Wuling Immortal Gate and shared certain words with you. Do you recall?”
Xu Ziqing closed his eyes, the memory of Yun Shixiong’s words that day crystal clear in his mind. “Yun Shixiong mentioned that once I establish my foundation, enter the Great World, and subsequently join Wuling Immortal Sect, every sight, sound, and experience I encounter here will make a difference. If my heart doesn’t remain steadfast, I may become ensnared by vanity. Hence, I must consistently self-reflect to maintain a solitary and untainted spirit amidst the distractions and impurities.”
That piece of advice had remained etched in his memory, never slipping from his thoughts.
Yet, upon his arrival in the vast world, he encountered a benevolent master, a lively junior sister, and a stern yet nurturing senior brother. Furthermore, the internal regulations of the prestigious sect seemed commendable. Thus, he wasn’t ensnared by the allure but instead perceived the place as a sanctum for his cultivation.
However, today’s revelations finally illuminated Xu Ziqing’s understanding.
The sect granted resources and conveniences to disciples like them, yet it extended even more privileges to those with elevated cultivation. Wuling Immortal Sect indeed stood as an exceptional grand sect, yet it wasn’t devoid of impurities beneath its radiance.
The dynamics within the vast world were intricate, with sects engaging in rivalry as well.
Cultivators, in their quest for immortality, not only focused on their personal cultivation but also contended for teachings, status, and resources. While the sect’s leadership might not solely crave power, they often found themselves compelled to adhere to prevailing trends and compromise in their pursuit of establishing a stronger foothold and nurturing exemplary disciples.
In this realization, Xu Ziqing acknowledged that he had mistaken his assimilation into the sect as complete when, in truth, he still harbored some impetuousness. He had, in essence, deluded himself with a veneer of superficiality. Now, his comprehension emerged as “true.”
As this clarity washed over him, he felt as if a layer of dust had been gently swept away from his heart, rendering his Dao Heart significantly clearer and more transparent.
Observing Xu Ziqing’s demeanor, Yun Lie’s eyes softened with a trace of relief. “Very well.”
Xu Ziqing lifted his head, a smile gracing his lips. “Yun Shixiong, I appreciate your guidance.” His gaze shifted towards the cultivators embracing and fondling him, his eyes reflecting clarity.
The path to immortality stretches long, and the manner of cultivation is a personal choice. Regardless of the outward display of indulgence, it only scratches the surface, not touching the depths of their hearts.
In truth, Xu Ziqing’s musings on these attached cultivators were disproportionately influenced by his own lack of understanding.
While their behavior might be unseemly, it stemmed from their relentless pursuit. They bartered whatever they possessed to secure a path to advancement, all in the name of longevity and standing.
Among the inner disciples too, some might be absorbed in their own importance and pleasures, but others ventured into the outer sect to find suitable cultivation partners based on their acquired practices. Although the so-called cultivation partner in the immortal sect differed from dual cultivation practices, it was worlds apart from the reckless harvesting of the devilish path. Ultimately, they, along with these outer disciples, engaged in a reciprocal arrangement.
Xu Ziqing wasn’t the sole one who found such displays discomforting. Several quasi-inner and outer disciples, possessing only the qualifications for entry, were unfamiliar with such matters. Many faces shifted at that moment, particularly those from the small world, like Su Xin and Zhuo Hanyan. Frowning, they withdrew to the sidelines, perturbed by the scene before them.
If they didn’t anticipate a potential encounter with a Golden Core stage Daoist, they might have promptly departed.
“Ahh—Shixiong, shixiong!” A sudden cry pierced the air, laden with panic. “This junior never intended this, and I implore shixiong to release me…”
Xu Ziqing’s expression altered, his head swiveling to gaze.
A delicate, willowy beauty with an anxious countenance was ensnared by her wrist, gripped by a tall male cultivator. Struggling, she endeavored to break free, her embarrassment evident.
The tall male cultivator exuded an air of arrogance as he declared, “With merely a three-spiritual root, your prospects in the outer sect are dim. Yet, you make an excellent vessel. Accompany me back, and you might find yourself fortunate!”
A shake of her head accompanied her tears, her voice tremulous. “This junior originally came here to weave her fate. Shixiong, your kindness is profound, but this junior finds it difficult to accept. I beseech you, shixiong, please desist…”
The tall male cultivator’s eyes turned cold. “This is not a choice you can make.”
“No—ah!” His words were cut short as he let out a piercing scream.
A sudden glint flashed across their vision, and the tall male cultivator’s wrist was punctured. Blood welled from the small wound, forming a pool on the ground after a brief moment.
“How dare you treat me like this! My master won’t let you off—” He glared menacingly at the source of the sword energy, his voice abruptly silenced as though a grip had tightened around his neck. “Yun, Yun Shixiong…”
Yun Lie retracted his finger, his tone icy. “By the sect’s decree, engaging in forced adultery within the sect will be punished. This seems to be your first offense. You shall receive punishment now, but remember, any recurrence will lead to your execution without mercy.”
The tall male cultivator, his anger subdued, clutched his wounded wrist, his words a hurried pledge. “Your command shall be followed. I thank you, Yun Shixiong!”
Without lingering, he swiftly turned, mounting his spirit bird, and departed in haste. The bloodied hole in his hand, a result of Yun Lie’s sword energy laced with deadly intent, required immediate treatment with a magic pill, compelling him to make his way back to the mountain despite the pain.
A hush settled over the onlookers as if only now realizing the presence of the black-clad executioner. Many, who moments ago were inclined towards unseemly actions with the outer disciples, now repressed their desires.
In that instant, clarity struck Xu Ziqing.
Yun Lie’s supervisory role likely extended beyond mere administrative matters and encompassed disciplining the wayward inner sect members who violated the sect’s principles. The absence of their puppet black vulture perch in the sky was probably strategic, allowing them greater freedom of movement.
With this realization, a sense of relief washed over Xu Ziqing.
No matter the shadows that might lurk within the sect, as long as they addressed these imperfections and remained vigilant, their strengths would not be eclipsed.
Yet, life’s tapestry is rarely woven without interruptions. Shadows abruptly spread across the sky, casting an ominous pallor over half of the heavens—a darkness that seemed both haunting and surreal.
All eyes turned upward, beholding a menacing creature flapping its wings, sending powerful gusts sweeping beneath its wings.
The forceful currents rattled many outer disciples, making it difficult for them to maintain their balance.
The lengthy neck of the monstrous beast bent downward, its eyes glowing a menacing scarlet. With an ominous creak, its jaws parted, revealing a menacing array of fangs.
A collective shiver ran through the disciples as they laid eyes on this terrifying sight.
Within moments, a few figures emerged on the creature’s back, their forms minuscule compared to the massive beast. Swiftly, they mounted flying swords and descended rapidly.
In the blink of an eye, three inner disciples, attired in ornate robes, materialized on the ground. The leader bore a brooding countenance, his eyes reflecting a sour disposition.
As Xu Ziqing’s gaze landed on this figure, a subtle spark glinted within his eyes.
It was Li Cai!
His attention then shifted to the male cultivators flanking Li Cai, their eyes radiating arrogance. They appeared to have achieved the transformation stage in their cultivation. So… were they also followers of Jile Peak?
Xu Ziqing’s heart sank.
A sense of unease lingered every time he encountered these individuals.
And his intuitions were soon validated.
Li Cai and his entourage strode forward, their haughty presence exuding an intimidating aura.
Numerous inner disciples who had been engaged in flirtatious banter promptly disengaged, creating a path for them. Witnessing this, a gathering of outer disciples, driven by aspirations of promotion, assumed attention-grabbing postures. Conversely, the quasi-outer disciples who had been apprehensive a moment ago adopted an air of defiance.
──While a protector had once shielded them, the force of Li Cai’s presence now unnerved those unaware of what lay ahead, stirring disquiet within them.
Li Cai’s gaze swept over those striving to stand out, finally alighting on a certain striking visage.
The woman’s lips curled into a brief, captivating smile before she hastened forward, her movements possessing a graceful allure. She positioned herself beside Li Cai with a fluid motion. Displaying a striking level of docility, she inclined her head, manifesting an attitude of submission.
Li Cai’s demeanor softened a touch, revealing a trace of contentment. “Since you possess knowledge and charm, you shall become my concubine.”
Observing Li Cai’s reaction, the two cultivators at his side exchanged a knowing smile and promptly congratulated him, “Congratulations, Junior Brother Li! And to you, fortunate lady,” turning their attention to the woman, “Junior Brother Li descends from the Nascent Soul Stage Patriarch. Serving him will undoubtedly bring you immense blessings across generations. Your future endeavors shall be richly rewarded!”
The woman’s delight was evident, though she mustered a show of restraint, coquettishly pledging, “This concubine considers herself greatly favored. I shall serve Senior Li with unwavering devotion…”
Li Cai basked in the praise from both the woman and the two cultivators, then turned his gaze to the astonished disciples upon hearing the term “Old Ancestor.” This acknowledgment fueled his pride, effectively lifting his spirits. As he ambled past the quasi-outer disciples, a newfound comfort settled within him.
His mental awareness brushed against something, and his brows lifted. “The Lingyu physique?”
Li Cai’s focus was now on the beautiful woman who had been almost forcibly taken away earlier.
Tremors of fear rippled through the woman’s frame, her emotions were laid bare.
In the realm of Qingyun, several physiques were particularly well-suited for cultivation. Some possessed exceptional aptitude, while others thrived with specific spiritual roots. Yet others, unfortunately, possessed only mortal bodies, relegated to playing supporting roles for others’ progress. The Lingyu physique was one such category among the numerous existing physiques.
The Lingyu physique emanated a serene aura, irrespective of the gender of the possessor. This kind of physique was especially conducive for use as a cultivation vessel. For cultivators practicing aggressive or combative techniques, such a physique could serve as a pacifying influence, facilitating their conquest over inner turmoil and demons.
However, the Lingyu physique wasn’t exceedingly rare. Observing the woman’s severe trepidation, Li Cai’s interest waned.
It had been an unfortunate encounter for the woman, to have her fate sealed by Li Cai’s glance. Nevertheless, Li Cai had already chosen another beauty with an enticing allure, making him dismissive of her—a stroke of fortune for her, yet again.
Li Cai’s attention did not linger on her, instead traversing numerous prospective outer disciples before settling on a particular individual.
The figure he fixated on was a youthful man of average height, adorned in red attire that highlighted his exceptional beauty. A trace of arrogance underscored his features, evident in his haughty brow and eyes. His manner exuded confidence and charisma, both when he spoke and laughed, rendering him a conspicuously captivating presence.
Li Cai’s gaze locked onto the young man, his eyes narrowing in contemplation. “Observe the yang energy emanating from him… it’s remarkably pure,” he mused, his voice measured.
His two companions at his side also turned their attention to the youth, elation evident on their faces.
One remarked, “A Single Fire Spiritual Root! I’ve sought this for an extended period and have finally stumbled upon it. My diligent Qi observation technique wasn’t in vain!”
The other chimed in, a chuckle punctuating his words, “Our Brother struggled at that crossroads for many years, and our ancestor was getting quite anxious. If not for that intervention by the elder from Shenhuo Peak all those years ago… hmph.”
Li Cai’s pride swelled further. “This venture has been far from fruitless. We shall bring this individual back to the peak, and rest assured, our ancestor will reward you,” he asserted confidently.
His companions nodded in agreement. “Absolutely, Junior Brother Li deserves the first merit,” they echoed.
Li Cai’s grin grew audacious. “Credit is due to us all!” he proclaimed.
The trio exchanged a few more words before Li Cai discreetly ushered the woman beside him aside. Stepping forward, he approached the group of quasi-inner disciples.
He suppressed the glee in his eyes, attempting a veneer of gentleness as he addressed them, “May I inquire of your name, shidi?”
Among the waiting comrades, Su Xin’s disposition contrasted with those who eagerly flattered and ingratiated themselves. Being from the small world’s reputable sects, they possessed a more astute understanding of these dynamics, unlike Xu Ziqing who was visibly perturbed. Even as they beheld the formidable beast earlier, their fear remained manageable.
Yet, they were caught off guard as the initially standoffish cultivator initiated the conversation.
A swift thought sparked in Su Xin’s mind, and he arched a smile. “This junior is known as Su Xin, humbly greets shixiong. And might I inquire about your esteemed name?”
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