AST 939 – Jade Mountain Village of Bole Country's Tigerfang City
After breakfast, Qing Shui and Yu He continued on their way again. The winter’s sun was very warm. At their cultivation level, they were no longer bothered by cold or heat, however, the sensation was still very clear to them. No matter how strong one was, one would still get wet when drenched by water. It was a feeling, and those who were powerful had stronger senses. It was only that their ability to withstand the weather was also stronger, unless they were to use their Qi of Xiantian to cut themselves off from the rain.
Although they could still feel cold, powerful warriors were very different from ordinary people. For example, an ordinary person would find it hard to move a single step in a strong gale and could only hear the strong gush of wind. On the other hand, they were like a slight breeze to the experts. This was the difference between them.
Therefore, both the strong gales and loud noises from flying at a high speed were unable to affect them right now. The two of them could talk very leisurely, as if they were standing between the heaven and earth with a slight breeze blowing and they weren’t affected in the least.
Only those who had reached a breakthrough to the Martial Emperor level would be able to reach the realm where they had an individual world within them. In the past, although they could still converse, they would still sense that the gales in the surrounding were very strong.
Now that the sun has risen, they could see the scene below them very clearly. This Ancient Mountain City was truly an isolated city that was very out of the way. There was only a single main path that lead towards the direction of the main city, with no other main roads heading to other directions. This meant that one could basically only head out and there were only a few people who would enter.
The city was surrounded by mountains, but thankfully they were not extremely dangerous. Qing Shui also didn’t sense any powerful demonic beasts in there. Otherwise, there was no way for this Ancient Mountain City to survive.
“Qing Shui, how long can you stay when you return this time?” Yu He asked, as she looked at Qing Shui with a smile.
“I don’t know. It might be for a while.” He had no idea either. This time around, he planned to stay a little longer. There was a need to strengthen the Qing Clan.
The people from the Qing Clan need to learn formations to the best that they could, he also planned to spend some time studying formations. He would let them comprehend some stone tablets to see if they could sense something, especially Mingyue Gelou.
He had no idea what her mastery of the Tiger Form was at right now, but it shouldn’t be lower than his. It was just that he had suddenly attained the Manifestation Realm and didn’t know if Mingyue Gelou could do the same.
There was also Luan Luan. He should also impart the other forms of the Nine Animals Mimicry Technique to her. Although they didn’t have the Qi of Ancient Strengthening Technique to act as the foundation, it would be good to allow them to grow stronger, even if it was just a little.
“How are the Qing Clan’s three generations right now? Has Di Chen returned?” Qing Shui started to let his thoughts run wild, but he suddenly recalled that there was still someone waiting for him in the Central Continent.
Hai Dongqing, Yun Duan, and there was also Di Qing!
Qing Shui was overwhelmed. He really felt that he had a strong affinity now with the Portraits of Beauty. What secrets did the women in the portraits hold? Why didn’t the Art Maestro stated them down clearly?
Why were there twelve? Were the remaining portraits in other people’s hands or were they hidden somewhere? He thought of how he had eight of them now, and it seemed like there was a high chance of them to appear where deity statues were.
“What are you thinking about? You’re so engrossed!”
When Qing Shui heard Yu He’s words, he smiled, “I’ve been distracted by the thoughts of my family.”
“That’s right, you’ve been out for so long and should miss them. Mmm, you’re already in your early thirties, but I still subconsciously felt that you’re that young lad who’s not even in your twenties.” Yu He broke into a smile.
“Time passes really quickly. When we look back, it seemed as if a lot of time had passed, but in the blink of an eye, it has already been over ten years.” Qing Shui also felt very emotional when he thought of this.
“That’s right. Time waits for no one.” Yu He looked into the far distance, as if feeling great pity, yet also like she was lamenting.
“Sister Yu’s tone sound like you’re very world weary. You’re now at the prime of your life, how can you be so negative?” Qing Shui smiled and said.
“Do you think my wish will come true?” Yu He turned to look at him, her beautiful eyes had a faint layer of mist, which caused Qing Shui to be in a daze.
“What is Sister Yu’s wish?” Qing Shui asked. At this moment, he felt that he was very fake. In relationships, he had always been the one who would seem to be putting up an act, or one who was hesitant and indecisive.
Most importantly, he didn’t have absolute confidence regarding relationships due to his inferiority complex. It might be because the ladies around him were all too outstanding and he had always felt that just having one of them was already a great blessing from the heavens. But right now, he felt just like a person who acts like a whore, but yet expected a monument created for her chastity.
With this thoughts, Qing Shui smiled bitterly. He didn’t deny that he had a strong sense of monopolizing, but he couldn’t remove the burdens in his heart. A person would find it the hardest to win against his own heart and change it.
He was already trying very hard to change himself, but yet he still couldn’t let himself loose. He was not a playful and flirtatious person, but yet he had done things which a person like that would do…
“I’ll tell you in the future.” Yu He smiled.
…
When they passed by the Golden Buddha Temple, Qing Shui didn’t go down. They would meet again if it was meant to be, and just merely flew along.
The old man in the temple opened his eyes, as if his heart was connected to Qing Shui. An amiable expression was hung up on his face, “Soaring up to the heavens, no one can stop your progress.”
For the past few days, Qing Shui traveled in the day and stayed in an inn when they came across a city or town at night. If they were in the wilderness, they would set up tents. Everyday, he would carry Yu He and used the Nine Continents Steps twice.
Gradually, the two of them grew very accustomed to this. Most importantly, after Qing Shui had performed the Nine Continents Steps while he carried Yu He, she wouldn’t let go immediately, but continue to wrap her arms around his neck as she chatted happily with him. Her lazing charm made Qing Shui unable to let her go, and he would always feel an indescribable feeling. After all, their relationship had been ambiguous since many years ago.
Qing Shui didn't know if love would blossom from frequent hugs, but it could be due to the deeply buried emotions within him. This emotion made him felt that Yu He was slowly permeating into his heart and it was unstoppable.
He performed the Nine Continent Steps once again. This was the second time he was doing this for the day and this time around, they didn't talk but Qing Shui didn't let go of his hands either. He continued to wrap his arms around her slender waist, as he looked at this tame lady. There was only a slight difference between good fortune in love and calamity in love. He didn't know which this was.
Was this considered a relationship debt? Qing Shui thought of the Skysword Sect's Zhu Qing. Although she didn't ask him anything for fear that he would feel burdened, he knew that it was impossible for him to let her go. He wondered how she was now.
"Hey, why are you always thinking of some other lady when I'm in your arms? Am I really lacking in charm?" Yu He said to Qing Shui angrily.
A Woman's sixth sense was truly very sensitive. Qing Shui smiled, not saying a word. However he suddenly felt a pinch at his waist.
It wasn't painful in the least and there was even a strange feeling that was growing between them.
"In the future, when I'm in your arms, you must only think of me." Yu He smiled and said, her tone very relaxed.
Qing Shui nodded. Right now, he felt that their relationship was getting increasingly ambiguous. Humans have fear of getting too close to others, especially when it was someone of the opposite sex, let alone a beautiful lady who had set her eyes on him.
Although he was slow in the area of relationships, he wasn't stupid. Yu He was there when he held his wedding banquet with Mu Qing in the Eastern Victory Divine Continent. If she was only there to offer her congratulations, he wouldn't be alone with her right now. For a lady like herself to want to return together with him and pulling him close, not even letting go. Everything was very clear to him now.
Moreover, Mu Qing said that she came to the Eastern Victory Divine Continent to look for him. He didn't know if this was true, but it was hard not to believe it when she decided to leave together with him, even though she had just arrived in Eastern Victory Divine Continent.
His arms tightened uncontrollably, without any evil thoughts. He just felt thankful to her from the bottom of his heart. It was an honor to him!
Yu He looked at Qing Shui. She could clearly sense the stir of his emotions. She smiled and pushed him away, "Let's go down and look for a restaurant!"
After she said that, Yu He descended.It was already dark. Qing Shui rubbed his nose, women were truly unfathomable creatures. He then kept the Fire Bird and descended as well.
After using the two Nine Continent Steps, they would be able to reach the Eastern Victory Divine Continent's borders. Right now, the Fire Bird's speed was much faster. However, it still took them several days.
A dreamless night!
The next day, they continued on their journey. Qing Shui used the Nine Continents Steps right from the start. Yu He didn't understand why he was in so much of a hurry. For the past few days, he had only used it at night.
"Could it be that he wants to hug me…" Yu He blushed from her own thoughts.
Qing Shui didn't realize the changes on Yu He, who had lowered her head. He called out the Fire Bird and they went on their way. It was only in the afternoon when he found the place he was looking for. He was not good at remembering the routes, but the Fire Bird was. It could remember all the places it had been to before.
Jade Mountain Village, Bole Country’s Tigerfang City!
It was a quiet and unnoticeable small village. Qing Shui had received the Spirit Channeling Jade from the head of the village, and he also met the two siblings who were the reincarnation of the devil. It had been a year since he last saw them and he decided to drop by for a visit on his way back.
When the Fire Bird stopped in the air and the two of them landed, many people had already gathered in the village.
"Teacher is here!"
"It's teacher!"
"This is the teacher who had taught us the Tiger Fist Technique! He's so young!"
"Uncle!"
"Is this teacher's wife? She's so pretty!"
…
When Qing Shui saw them, he also felt very warm inside. He realized that there were many new faces who were youngsters. It seemed like quite a number of them had come back in the past one year.
Qing Shui also saw Chi Ao and Chi Feng. Only the two of them called him uncle. Yu He, who stood next to Qing Shui, stared at him in astonishment. She didn't expect that there would be people from the village who would know him.
She also realized why he was in such a hurry to hug her now…
"Sister Yu, shall we stay here for a day?" Qing Shui said, as he looked at Yu He with a smile.
"Alright. I'll leave it all to you." she blinked and smiled.
To the others, the two people’s expressions made them believed in their earlier guess even more.
"The head of the village is here!"
Qing Shui watched as the old man walked over happily. He was walking very fast. After all, he was also a Xiantian cultivator now.
Qing Shui and Yu He quickly walked over.
"Sir!"
"Mister, you're here! Hello, miss!" The old man knew that a lady who could be together with Qing Shui would definitely not be an ordinary person. Moreover, this lady was extremely charming and was definitely not from an ordinary family.
"Hello, Sir!" Yu He greeted the old man.
The old man was very happy. He then looked towards the villagers.
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AST 940 – Trifling Issues, Chi Ao and Chi Feng, Hidden Reason
The old village head looked at the surroundings and said, "Everyone go back and have your meals first. Gather here earlier in the afternoon and let the Mister give you some guidance."
"Mister, what do you think?" the old man smiled and looked at Qing Shui.
"I'll leave that up to you. I'll be staying here for a day." Qing Shui looked around and smiled.
Cheers broke out and the group was dispersed. Everyone knew that Qing Shui had something to discuss with the village's head, so they all smiled and left.
Qing Shui looked at the old village head and then he looked at the siblings and was taken aback. As expected devil reincarnations… their potential and talent did not lose out to Luan Luan in the slightest.
He wondered who their parents were, to be able to give birth to these kids.
There were rumors that their parents had died. It was said that after their birth, their family members had died one after another. Qing Shui didn't dismiss this rumor, but there was one thing he couldn't agree with. It was said that reincarnations of the devil tended to bring great negative influences to the people around them, causing them to die one by one. It wasn't to the extent that all of their family would die from the moment they were born. Their pernicious aura wasn't as strong at their birth and the pernicious aura was only especially strong and malicious toward the person's kin. Those who weren't blood-related would be unaffected. This was a pernicious aura that came from one's blood and bones and would be extremely detrimental to individuals from the same bloodline.
If the siblings had been taken in by the old village head since they were young, then there were two possibilities. The first one was that their parents were left with no choice but to abandon them. The second possibility was that their parents were aware that the siblings were the reincarnations of the devil and had heartlessly thrown them away in fear of encountering a great disaster.
Qing Shui guessed that their parents were still around somewhere. It was impossible for people from ordinary families to have such physiques. As such, Qing Shui felt that the clan which had abandoned them must be very powerful—they might not be from the five continents.
Qing Shui looked at the siblings in astonishment. In the past year, they had experienced a tremendous change. Even their heights and appearances had changed. People with such physiques were all elites.
In just one year, the two of them had already reached Xiantian. Additionally, Qing Shui knew that their progress would be even faster from now on. Their progress speed was like Luan Luan’s. After reaching Xiantian, they would advance very quickly and would rarely come across bottlenecks. Even if they met bottlenecks, they would be able to break through them very quickly. They were born with their lifespans ripped off from them and their short lifespans wouldn’t increase even when their cultivation did.
However, God was fair. When it took away some things, it would make it up with something else.
Chi Ao and Chi Feng were still young, but it would be the prime chance to raise their cultivation from now onwards. Within ten years or so, they would be able to reach a considerable height. However, they would also face the problem of their short lifespan in that time. Their lifespans were destined to be similar to a person who had a Heart of Seven Orifices. It was destined to be tough for them to live past 40 years old.
The last time he was here, Qing Shui had left them a few things. He left them each a Wondrous Fruit and a Physique-Enhancing Fruit. These fruits could slightly increase their potential and lifespan. He had made a ten-year promise with them and he wouldn’t break it. He would lend them a helping hand when the time comes—as long as he had the ability to do so.
“Uncle!” Chi Feng was very happy to see Qing Shui.
Although this lass looked very shy, she was very intelligent. However, individuals with a powerful spiritual sense would be able to sense the powerful pernicious aura she had.
Qing Shui could sense that their pernicious aura was stronger than before and fell into contemplation. As they grew stronger, their pernicious aura would become stronger and it could have negative effects on the people around them.
“Mmm, Lass Feng has grown taller.” Qing Shui smiled. He really wanted to treat this pair of siblings well.
It was rare to encounter people with these physiques even in a hundred years. He didn’t wish to see them die after only living for 40 years.
He also wanted to see what level their physiques and Luan Luan’s Heart of Seven Orifices could reach. He could help them along the way. After all, it would be hard for them to rely on themselves alone.
“Uncle, we feel that our aura has grown increasingly stronger. The people around us can’t get used to it. Why is it that grandfather and Uncle don’t have such aura?” Chi Feng gave it some thought before asking Qing Shui.
“Tomorrow, Uncle will give you something. It can block off some of your aura. Don’t think about it too much. This aura can hasten your cultivation speed,” Qing Shui said as they walked.
“Thank you Uncle!” Chi Feng said happily.
Compared to Chi Ao, Chi Feng was slightly more outspoken.
“No need to stand on ceremony. If you have anything you want or anything you need help with, just let me know.” Qing Shui’s tone was very soft, but it felt very sincere.
“Uncle, your wife is so pretty!” Chi Feng smiled and looked at Yu He.
“She is very pretty, but she’s not my wife.” Qing Shui smiled and said.
“In the future, she will be. It’s just a matter of time.” Chi Feng blinked. Her eyes had a slight cold gleam. She now looked very cute, but she’ll probably change slowly in the future…
After saying that, Chi Feng secretly smiled and looked at Yu He. Although she was young, she was very intelligent. She only said what she said because she could tell that Yu He wasn’t against it.
Qing Shui didn’t say anything, but Chi Feng got called over by the old village head. Experienced in worldly matters, he could naturally tell that there was something between Qing Shui and Yu He. This was why he only got his granddaughter to stop, but didn’t say anything else.
The stone house was basically the same as it was a year ago. It wasn't very big but it was still relatively spacious, even after they had all entered.
“Our stone house is run-down. I hope you don’t mind.” The old man politely invited Qing Shui and Yu He to sit down.
“Sir, there’s no need to stand on ceremony.”
“Many people have returned to the village and are all putting in a great amount of effort into their training. We can get enough to feed our families just by hunting now and still have some food to spare. There was only one incident where someone got hurt, but it was a minor accident and wasn’t a serious injury. Recently, we’ve even found a small-scale jade mine and it has increased the village’s income by quite a bit.” The old man sounded very happy.
Hearing this, Qing Shui also felt very happy. He had never denied that he was a kind man. Seeing that their lives had been improving, he felt happy from the bottom of his heart.
Their lunch was very sumptuous. Since they hunted, they had both meat and vegetables. The old village head’s culinary skills were quite good and Chi Feng also helped out. The meal was prepared very quickly.
When Qing Shui and the others arrived at the square in the afternoon, there was already quite a number of people from the villages nearby. This time around, there were a lot more youngsters when compared to before.
“Hello Sir!”
“Hello teacher!”
…
Qing Shui waved his hand and said, “Everyone stand properly and perform the Tiger Form together. There’s no need to go all out. Just try your best to perform your Tiger Form perfectly.”
Chi Ao and Chi Feng also joined the crowd. With them in the lead, the others naturally followed. Although the two of them were young, they were already at the Xiantian realm. To the others, they were their role models.
Chi Ao and Chi Feng stood in the lead and the others followed the two of them.
“Remember, you can have different momentums. Don’t use too much strength and aura. Just perform the Tiger Form which you feel is the most perfect.” Qing Shui repeated.
“Start!”
Thanks to Qing Shui’s words, the Tiger Form that they displayed wasn't neat at all. Right now, Qing Shui primarily wanted to see who could show the charm to the Tiger Form.
He was first astonished by Chi Ao and Chi Feng. Their pernicious aura was really powerful. Although it was still insufficient to take form, they were already able to do it with such power. When their cultivations improved in the future, how strong would that pernicious aura be? Qing Shui felt that when their pernicious aura reached a certain level, there would naturally be a way to control it. Right now, he needed to help them keep it in control.
The others didn’t manage to catch his attention. This was a small village and it was hard to encounter real geniuses.
Qing Shui then started to demonstrate the Tiger Form. He started off at a slow pace and merely displayed the movements. He then gradually sped up, bringing in the charm of the move. What he wanted was for them to comprehend the charm of the Tiger Form.
Only by successfully comprehending the charm would they then be able to improve by leaps and bounds. If he were to give them verbal guidance only and let them think through his words, it would be too slow. He wanted to forcefully fill them in and then observe how much they were able to digest.
Qing Shui’s Tiger Form slowly increased in speed, and eventually even reached the Manifestation Realm. The people around him were all astonished. After all, this was the first time that they had seen a powerful expert like Qing Shui. This left a strong mental impact on them.
What Qing Shui wanted was results. If this could allow them to have a stronger mentality, they might be able to achieve something in the future. If their minds were not strong enough, it would be a blow to them. He had actually wanted to show this to Chi Ao and Chi Feng. As for the others, he just let it all to fate.
Unknowingly, it was already late in the afternoon. Qing Shui continued to give them guidance. Qing Shui liked the villagers, as they were honest and easily satisfied with what they had. Sometimes, this was a flaw but sometimes it was a merit. There were always two sides to any matter.
Qing Shui saw the surprise in Chi Ao and Chi Feng’s eyes. Additionally, he saw determination and hope. When he saw their gazes, he felt relieved. This trip hadn't been wasted and he had helped them set a life goal, which was to reach the level he was at now.
One year was neither long or short. Seeing their current achievements, Qing Shui knew that they had put in a lot of hard work in the past year. Moreover, they had been eating meat since a young age and had good physiques. This was a village in the mountain and there was always the threat of wild beasts. Therefore, they had trained since they were young and now they were tempering their bodies with the Tiger Form. The one year period had allowed them a small but qualitative improvement.
Although it was only one afternoon, many people had learned a lot. Just that short amount of time was sufficient.
It was turning dark soon. Many people warmly invited Qing Shui to their homes for dinner. Qing Shui smiled and politely declined them. They went back unwillingly and knew that this might be the last time that they could meet Qing Shui.
At night, both Qing Shui and Yu He found a stone house for themselves. Thankfully, the rooms were very clean. However, Qing Shui gave Yu He a large piece of clean beast hide and blanket. Both of the items were very thick and extremely comfortable. It was the hide of a Peak Martial Saint demonic beast that had recently been tempered by Qing Shui.
Yu He had her own to use, but when she saw the hide that Qing Shui took out, she took them happily. She liked Qing Shui’s attentiveness. The bed in the room was a stone bed and although the beast hide and other stuff were all new, the smell of wild beasts still lingered. She wasn’t able to get used to it.
This was the scent that couldn’t be removed from the hide of low level wild beasts, It was unlike high level demonic beasts whose hide would be extremely clean with a fresh smell as long as they were Xiantian or stronger no dust would gather on them. The hide of a Peak Martial Saint demonic beasts was even cleaner and was so pure that they could even slightly provide warmth in winter and a cooling effect in summer.
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AST 941 – Attempt at carving formations, Small Success Stage of the Buddha’s True Eyes
The skins of high grade Demonic Beasts were especially thick. Of course, this depended on the Demonic Beast. Fox furs, especially from beasts that had been Martial Saints, were some of the best for making coats, but were not especially thick.
Yu He took a snow white beast skin blanket and covered Qing Shui. She smiled at Qing Shui, feeling a certain sweetness in her heart. After she saw that it had been done properly, she said goodnight and went to her room.
After she went in, she closed the door. Qing Shui did not need her to go through all that trouble. If he had wanted to rest, all he had needed to do was to take out the bed he used in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal. Furthermore, he would spend six hours in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal. By then, the sun would have risen. This was how he normally rested.
After he entered the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal, Qing Shui spent some time cultivating and then researched formations.
Finally, Qing Shui started to research the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation.
He knew the effects of the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. Pernicious aura was a kind of Spiritual Qi, which was just a general term. Pernicious aura, Core Qi of Demonic Beasts, and the Qi of Xiantian were all forms of Spiritual Qi.
The Spirit Sealing Minor Formation had sealing abilities. However, Qing Shui was not aware of how its mechanisms worked, which was why he was spending time to research it. However, after sealing Chi Ao and Chi Feng, it would be able to seal their pernicious aura for a period of time.
Even after they got stronger in a few years, it would still be able to restrain their auras. By then, they might be able to control their pernicious auras. After all, that was what they were cultivating.
They cultivated the pernicious aura of their bodies. The stronger their pernicious aura, the stronger their abilities. Thus, Qing Shui wanted to forge these things, and then carve the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation on them, in order to seal any pernicious aura that was released.
The two of them were only in the Xiantian grade, so Qing Shui felt that it should be easy. One day in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal was slightly more than three months. He had confidence in succeeding.
First, he researched the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. This formation used the Spiritual Qi of Heaven and Earth to suppress other kinds of Spiritual Qi, but it still left a path for it to trickle out. It was impossible to completely seal Spiritual Qi off. No one could be completely isolated from Spiritual Qi, as even air contained some Spiritual Qi. Completely sealing a person off would result in his death. As to whether there was a method of completely sealing, he was not aware. However, he knew that it is impossible for him to accomplish right now.
After this, he tried laying a Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. Fortunately, he quickly got the hang of it. Although it hadn't yet succeeded, he knew that he would be able to succeed in slightly more than a day’s time.
After laying the formation, Qing Shui would obsessively test it out. Time slowly went by until a glow of formations surrounded him. He knew that he had finally succeeded.
Then, he removed the formation and set it up again repeatedly. This carried on for almost three days before Qing Shui stopped, sat down and closed his eyes. The things he learned in the past three days emerged, every detail clear.
In the following three days, Qing Shui did not touch any formations and instead cultivated. He continued to lay the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation, repeating the cycle. However, he discovered that there were more improvements this time than there had been previously.
Just like this, two months went by. Qing Shui felt that he had a solid grasp on the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. After all, the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation and Spirit Gathering Formation were formations that were easy to learn.
He had spent so much effort and time because he wanted to understand it deeper and use it later. Now, it was time to forge the pendants.
He first started with some regular metal and produced the pendant base. Then, Qing Shui started to carve the formation on top of it. What Qing Shui was doing was creating a Formation Seal. Formation Seals would be carved on weapons or armors, but they rarely appeared within the Five continents. Even if they appeared, they would not be noticed.
Now, Qing Shui was attempting it, but with only the simplest formation on the pendant. This was a result of his breakthrough in the Ancient Art of Forging and in formations. He only dared to do this after breaking through to the Pentacolor Rainbow Art of Forging. Furthermore, he had only recently grasped formations.
If he had not encountered Chi Ao's and Chi Feng's pernicious aura, Qing Shui would not have attempted to carve formations like this.
High Grade Focused Concentration!
Since Qing Shui started laying the formations, he had been circulating the High Grade Focused Concentration. His Focused Concentration not only increased his abilities by 20%, they also increased concentration and mental capacity. Under such a state, when learning something, his powers of comprehension would be increased.
Fail!
Fail!
……
Qing Shui failed repeatedly. However, there were no changes to his emotions. This was because he had already anticipated this, and did not feel that it was strange. He carved it bit by bit, learning as he continued.
When breaking through to the Pentacolor Rainbow Art of Forging, Qing Shui had gained methods listed on how to carve formations. However, these were just methods and techniques, with the specific details only being discoverable by experimenting. He had to experiment on how to completely carve the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation.
Carving formations exhausted spirit energy. At first, the carving was very smooth but after 30 minutes, when the side needed to be changed, it would suddenly fail. It was like the sensation of a thread breaking.
It kept failing. The item would have to be completely covered in carvings, regardless of the size. This pendant was not large, but it was not small either. If it were too small, Qing Shui would not have the abilities to succeed at the present. When just starting out, people would start carving on something larger. Something that was too small would require extremely precise carving skills and a large amount of spirit energy.
The Spirit Sealing Minor Formation was relatively simple. Thus, he was able to casually carve it on the palm-sized pendant. However, Qing Shui had already failed countless numbers of times.
The position where he switched sides was very important. This was because he needed to connect the spirit energy of the reversed side together at that location.
"Hmm, connection?"
Suddenly, Qing Shui discovered that he had been wasting time on an insignificant problem. When he started carving again, he began from the front, not in a rush to deal with the connection. Instead, he next chose to work on the reverse side.
Fail!
Fail!
……
After another string of failures, Qing Shui started to wonder if this method of working from the back was possible. Could it be that he had to complete it all in one go from the front?
Qing Shui sat silently in thought for 15 minutes before continuing. Maybe because he was carving from the back, the difficulty was higher? He was resolute and tried it again. After resting for while, he kept on going.
He was still failing over and over. Qing Shui was already numb to it. He saw that there were not many pendants left. For the sake of carving formations, Qing Shui had forged many simple pendants, but they were just made of regular metal.
Attempting to carve again, Qing Shui was already used to failure. Just as he expected to fail again, there was no sound indicating failure. Looking at the result, he was incomparably happy. Although he had not completely succeeded, this small success was proof this method was feasible.
It was difficult to make the initial start, but there was slow progress after that. It was like climbing a mountain. Although it was difficult, there would always be some slow progress. It was impossible for anyone to just climb it in one go.
He carved it bit by bit. When he finished carving about half the back, it failed. He put down the damaged pendant but was still pretty excited. He then went to eat something and took a rest.
After that, he pondered silently.
Qing Shui continued to forge more pendants and began to carve again. WIth his earlier success, it was easy to make a start from that point and progress slowly. Seeing that slow progress, he was very happy. It meant a completed pendant was getting nearer bit by bit.
Fail!
Just when he was about to finish the back, he failed again. But on the next try, he actually managed to succeed. This caused Qing Shui to feel surprised. He originally thought that this final breakthrough would be tough, and had even worried about it earlier.
Both sides were completely carved and all that was left was the connection. This connection was the eye of the formation that would activate it and its position was very important. Thus, he was not in a rush to connect the sides with the eye of the formation.
Instead, he picked up another pendant and continued carving. He found that once that he had succeeded once, the carving was easier.
With the High Grade Focused Concentration, he would basically not fail after succeeding just once. Very soon, he had carved tens of pendants. They were all completely carved on both sides. Now, only the final connection was left.
Once he completed the connection, the pendant would be complete. Qing Shui was very excited, because once he succeeded with this Spirit Sealing Minor Formation, it would mean that he would be able to carve formations on weapons and armor from then on.
Maybe even carving the Spirit Gathering Formation…
This would increase a cultivator's recovery speed. In normal conditions, this would increase cultivation speed, and in battle, might even let a little bit of recovery occur.
Qing Shui thought that the future of a Formation Seal Master was not bad……
Calming his emotions down, he allowed himself to reach a state of no expectations. Allowing his spirit to be calm and temporarily forgetting everything. Qing Shui thought of the Golden Buddha Temple.
He thought about that old man, the Buddha’s True Eyes, that Buddha statue. He felt his thoughts turn empty and he slowly closed his eyes. However, his surroundings were all clearly perceived by his mind.
Furthermore, he even saw that Buddha image behind him again. He was astonished, but was still very calm. Suddenly, the Buddha Image opened its eyes. In that instant, Qing Shui was stunned. The profoundness of those eyes was indescribable.
It had spirituality, great changes, slight smiles, grief, righteousness, pain, mercy, killing intent……
Suddenly, Qing Shui felt an energy enter his body. It was not just pure energy, but partly spirit energy. Suddenly Qing Shui opened both his eyes and a faint golden light emerged.
Buddha’s True Eyes!
The Buddha’s True Eyes had actually managed to break through to the Small Success Stage. Although it was just the Small Success Stage, he knew that the Buddha’s True Eyes was very sharp. It could see everything, see through everything, and suppress spirits. Of course, this was just a saying. Actually, the Buddha’s True Eyes could see through the emotions of man, be it grief, pain, or even an injured spirit……
QIng Shui smiled. Truly, what an unexpected gain. When he had wanted it to succeed, it hadn't. Yet at this random moment, it had broken through.
This success led Qing Shui to feel many things. The things that he comprehended with the breakthrough of Buddha’s True Eyes were many. At this moment, he understood a lot more of the world than he did in the past.
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AST 939 – Jade Mountain Village of Bole Country's Tigerfang City
After breakfast, Qing Shui and Yu He continued on their way again. The winter’s sun was very warm. At their cultivation level, they were no longer bothered by cold or heat, however, the sensation was still very clear to them. No matter how strong one was, one would still get wet when drenched by water. It was a feeling, and those who were powerful had stronger senses. It was only that their ability to withstand the weather was also stronger, unless they were to use their Qi of Xiantian to cut themselves off from the rain.
Although they could still feel cold, powerful warriors were very different from ordinary people. For example, an ordinary person would find it hard to move a single step in a strong gale and could only hear the strong gush of wind. On the other hand, they were like a slight breeze to the experts. This was the difference between them.
Therefore, both the strong gales and loud noises from flying at a high speed were unable to affect them right now. The two of them could talk very leisurely, as if they were standing between the heaven and earth with a slight breeze blowing and they weren’t affected in the least.
Only those who had reached a breakthrough to the Martial Emperor level would be able to reach the realm where they had an individual world within them. In the past, although they could still converse, they would still sense that the gales in the surrounding were very strong.
Now that the sun has risen, they could see the scene below them very clearly. This Ancient Mountain City was truly an isolated city that was very out of the way. There was only a single main path that lead towards the direction of the main city, with no other main roads heading to other directions. This meant that one could basically only head out and there were only a few people who would enter.
The city was surrounded by mountains, but thankfully they were not extremely dangerous. Qing Shui also didn’t sense any powerful demonic beasts in there. Otherwise, there was no way for this Ancient Mountain City to survive.
“Qing Shui, how long can you stay when you return this time?” Yu He asked, as she looked at Qing Shui with a smile.
“I don’t know. It might be for a while.” He had no idea either. This time around, he planned to stay a little longer. There was a need to strengthen the Qing Clan.
The people from the Qing Clan need to learn formations to the best that they could, he also planned to spend some time studying formations. He would let them comprehend some stone tablets to see if they could sense something, especially Mingyue Gelou.
He had no idea what her mastery of the Tiger Form was at right now, but it shouldn’t be lower than his. It was just that he had suddenly attained the Manifestation Realm and didn’t know if Mingyue Gelou could do the same.
There was also Luan Luan. He should also impart the other forms of the Nine Animals Mimicry Technique to her. Although they didn’t have the Qi of Ancient Strengthening Technique to act as the foundation, it would be good to allow them to grow stronger, even if it was just a little.
“How are the Qing Clan’s three generations right now? Has Di Chen returned?” Qing Shui started to let his thoughts run wild, but he suddenly recalled that there was still someone waiting for him in the Central Continent.
Hai Dongqing, Yun Duan, and there was also Di Qing!
Qing Shui was overwhelmed. He really felt that he had a strong affinity now with the Portraits of Beauty. What secrets did the women in the portraits hold? Why didn’t the Art Maestro stated them down clearly?
Why were there twelve? Were the remaining portraits in other people’s hands or were they hidden somewhere? He thought of how he had eight of them now, and it seemed like there was a high chance of them to appear where deity statues were.
“What are you thinking about? You’re so engrossed!”
When Qing Shui heard Yu He’s words, he smiled, “I’ve been distracted by the thoughts of my family.”
“That’s right, you’ve been out for so long and should miss them. Mmm, you’re already in your early thirties, but I still subconsciously felt that you’re that young lad who’s not even in your twenties.” Yu He broke into a smile.
“Time passes really quickly. When we look back, it seemed as if a lot of time had passed, but in the blink of an eye, it has already been over ten years.” Qing Shui also felt very emotional when he thought of this.
“That’s right. Time waits for no one.” Yu He looked into the far distance, as if feeling great pity, yet also like she was lamenting.
“Sister Yu’s tone sound like you’re very world weary. You’re now at the prime of your life, how can you be so negative?” Qing Shui smiled and said.
“Do you think my wish will come true?” Yu He turned to look at him, her beautiful eyes had a faint layer of mist, which caused Qing Shui to be in a daze.
“What is Sister Yu’s wish?” Qing Shui asked. At this moment, he felt that he was very fake. In relationships, he had always been the one who would seem to be putting up an act, or one who was hesitant and indecisive.
Most importantly, he didn’t have absolute confidence regarding relationships due to his inferiority complex. It might be because the ladies around him were all too outstanding and he had always felt that just having one of them was already a great blessing from the heavens. But right now, he felt just like a person who acts like a whore, but yet expected a monument created for her chastity.
With this thoughts, Qing Shui smiled bitterly. He didn’t deny that he had a strong sense of monopolizing, but he couldn’t remove the burdens in his heart. A person would find it the hardest to win against his own heart and change it.
He was already trying very hard to change himself, but yet he still couldn’t let himself loose. He was not a playful and flirtatious person, but yet he had done things which a person like that would do…
“I’ll tell you in the future.” Yu He smiled.
…
When they passed by the Golden Buddha Temple, Qing Shui didn’t go down. They would meet again if it was meant to be, and just merely flew along.
The old man in the temple opened his eyes, as if his heart was connected to Qing Shui. An amiable expression was hung up on his face, “Soaring up to the heavens, no one can stop your progress.”
For the past few days, Qing Shui traveled in the day and stayed in an inn when they came across a city or town at night. If they were in the wilderness, they would set up tents. Everyday, he would carry Yu He and used the Nine Continents Steps twice.
Gradually, the two of them grew very accustomed to this. Most importantly, after Qing Shui had performed the Nine Continents Steps while he carried Yu He, she wouldn’t let go immediately, but continue to wrap her arms around his neck as she chatted happily with him. Her lazing charm made Qing Shui unable to let her go, and he would always feel an indescribable feeling. After all, their relationship had been ambiguous since many years ago.
Qing Shui didn't know if love would blossom from frequent hugs, but it could be due to the deeply buried emotions within him. This emotion made him felt that Yu He was slowly permeating into his heart and it was unstoppable.
He performed the Nine Continent Steps once again. This was the second time he was doing this for the day and this time around, they didn't talk but Qing Shui didn't let go of his hands either. He continued to wrap his arms around her slender waist, as he looked at this tame lady. There was only a slight difference between good fortune in love and calamity in love. He didn't know which this was.
Was this considered a relationship debt? Qing Shui thought of the Skysword Sect's Zhu Qing. Although she didn't ask him anything for fear that he would feel burdened, he knew that it was impossible for him to let her go. He wondered how she was now.
"Hey, why are you always thinking of some other lady when I'm in your arms? Am I really lacking in charm?" Yu He said to Qing Shui angrily.
A Woman's sixth sense was truly very sensitive. Qing Shui smiled, not saying a word. However he suddenly felt a pinch at his waist.
It wasn't painful in the least and there was even a strange feeling that was growing between them.
"In the future, when I'm in your arms, you must only think of me." Yu He smiled and said, her tone very relaxed.
Qing Shui nodded. Right now, he felt that their relationship was getting increasingly ambiguous. Humans have fear of getting too close to others, especially when it was someone of the opposite sex, let alone a beautiful lady who had set her eyes on him.
Although he was slow in the area of relationships, he wasn't stupid. Yu He was there when he held his wedding banquet with Mu Qing in the Eastern Victory Divine Continent. If she was only there to offer her congratulations, he wouldn't be alone with her right now. For a lady like herself to want to return together with him and pulling him close, not even letting go. Everything was very clear to him now.
Moreover, Mu Qing said that she came to the Eastern Victory Divine Continent to look for him. He didn't know if this was true, but it was hard not to believe it when she decided to leave together with him, even though she had just arrived in Eastern Victory Divine Continent.
His arms tightened uncontrollably, without any evil thoughts. He just felt thankful to her from the bottom of his heart. It was an honor to him!
Yu He looked at Qing Shui. She could clearly sense the stir of his emotions. She smiled and pushed him away, "Let's go down and look for a restaurant!"
After she said that, Yu He descended.It was already dark. Qing Shui rubbed his nose, women were truly unfathomable creatures. He then kept the Fire Bird and descended as well.
After using the two Nine Continent Steps, they would be able to reach the Eastern Victory Divine Continent's borders. Right now, the Fire Bird's speed was much faster. However, it still took them several days.
A dreamless night!
The next day, they continued on their journey. Qing Shui used the Nine Continents Steps right from the start. Yu He didn't understand why he was in so much of a hurry. For the past few days, he had only used it at night.
"Could it be that he wants to hug me…" Yu He blushed from her own thoughts.
Qing Shui didn't realize the changes on Yu He, who had lowered her head. He called out the Fire Bird and they went on their way. It was only in the afternoon when he found the place he was looking for. He was not good at remembering the routes, but the Fire Bird was. It could remember all the places it had been to before.
Jade Mountain Village, Bole Country’s Tigerfang City!
It was a quiet and unnoticeable small village. Qing Shui had received the Spirit Channeling Jade from the head of the village, and he also met the two siblings who were the reincarnation of the devil. It had been a year since he last saw them and he decided to drop by for a visit on his way back.
When the Fire Bird stopped in the air and the two of them landed, many people had already gathered in the village.
"Teacher is here!"
"It's teacher!"
"This is the teacher who had taught us the Tiger Fist Technique! He's so young!"
"Uncle!"
"Is this teacher's wife? She's so pretty!"
…
When Qing Shui saw them, he also felt very warm inside. He realized that there were many new faces who were youngsters. It seemed like quite a number of them had come back in the past one year.
Qing Shui also saw Chi Ao and Chi Feng. Only the two of them called him uncle. Yu He, who stood next to Qing Shui, stared at him in astonishment. She didn't expect that there would be people from the village who would know him.
She also realized why he was in such a hurry to hug her now…
"Sister Yu, shall we stay here for a day?" Qing Shui said, as he looked at Yu He with a smile.
"Alright. I'll leave it all to you." she blinked and smiled.
To the others, the two people’s expressions made them believed in their earlier guess even more.
"The head of the village is here!"
Qing Shui watched as the old man walked over happily. He was walking very fast. After all, he was also a Xiantian cultivator now.
Qing Shui and Yu He quickly walked over.
"Sir!"
"Mister, you're here! Hello, miss!" The old man knew that a lady who could be together with Qing Shui would definitely not be an ordinary person. Moreover, this lady was extremely charming and was definitely not from an ordinary family.
"Hello, Sir!" Yu He greeted the old man.
The old man was very happy. He then looked towards the villagers.
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AST 940 – Trifling Issues, Chi Ao and Chi Feng, Hidden Reason
The old village head looked at the surroundings and said, "Everyone go back and have your meals first. Gather here earlier in the afternoon and let the Mister give you some guidance."
"Mister, what do you think?" the old man smiled and looked at Qing Shui.
"I'll leave that up to you. I'll be staying here for a day." Qing Shui looked around and smiled.
Cheers broke out and the group was dispersed. Everyone knew that Qing Shui had something to discuss with the village's head, so they all smiled and left.
Qing Shui looked at the old village head and then he looked at the siblings and was taken aback. As expected devil reincarnations… their potential and talent did not lose out to Luan Luan in the slightest.
He wondered who their parents were, to be able to give birth to these kids.
There were rumors that their parents had died. It was said that after their birth, their family members had died one after another. Qing Shui didn't dismiss this rumor, but there was one thing he couldn't agree with. It was said that reincarnations of the devil tended to bring great negative influences to the people around them, causing them to die one by one. It wasn't to the extent that all of their family would die from the moment they were born. Their pernicious aura wasn't as strong at their birth and the pernicious aura was only especially strong and malicious toward the person's kin. Those who weren't blood-related would be unaffected. This was a pernicious aura that came from one's blood and bones and would be extremely detrimental to individuals from the same bloodline.
If the siblings had been taken in by the old village head since they were young, then there were two possibilities. The first one was that their parents were left with no choice but to abandon them. The second possibility was that their parents were aware that the siblings were the reincarnations of the devil and had heartlessly thrown them away in fear of encountering a great disaster.
Qing Shui guessed that their parents were still around somewhere. It was impossible for people from ordinary families to have such physiques. As such, Qing Shui felt that the clan which had abandoned them must be very powerful—they might not be from the five continents.
Qing Shui looked at the siblings in astonishment. In the past year, they had experienced a tremendous change. Even their heights and appearances had changed. People with such physiques were all elites.
In just one year, the two of them had already reached Xiantian. Additionally, Qing Shui knew that their progress would be even faster from now on. Their progress speed was like Luan Luan’s. After reaching Xiantian, they would advance very quickly and would rarely come across bottlenecks. Even if they met bottlenecks, they would be able to break through them very quickly. They were born with their lifespans ripped off from them and their short lifespans wouldn’t increase even when their cultivation did.
However, God was fair. When it took away some things, it would make it up with something else.
Chi Ao and Chi Feng were still young, but it would be the prime chance to raise their cultivation from now onwards. Within ten years or so, they would be able to reach a considerable height. However, they would also face the problem of their short lifespan in that time. Their lifespans were destined to be similar to a person who had a Heart of Seven Orifices. It was destined to be tough for them to live past 40 years old.
The last time he was here, Qing Shui had left them a few things. He left them each a Wondrous Fruit and a Physique-Enhancing Fruit. These fruits could slightly increase their potential and lifespan. He had made a ten-year promise with them and he wouldn’t break it. He would lend them a helping hand when the time comes—as long as he had the ability to do so.
“Uncle!” Chi Feng was very happy to see Qing Shui.
Although this lass looked very shy, she was very intelligent. However, individuals with a powerful spiritual sense would be able to sense the powerful pernicious aura she had.
Qing Shui could sense that their pernicious aura was stronger than before and fell into contemplation. As they grew stronger, their pernicious aura would become stronger and it could have negative effects on the people around them.
“Mmm, Lass Feng has grown taller.” Qing Shui smiled. He really wanted to treat this pair of siblings well.
It was rare to encounter people with these physiques even in a hundred years. He didn’t wish to see them die after only living for 40 years.
He also wanted to see what level their physiques and Luan Luan’s Heart of Seven Orifices could reach. He could help them along the way. After all, it would be hard for them to rely on themselves alone.
“Uncle, we feel that our aura has grown increasingly stronger. The people around us can’t get used to it. Why is it that grandfather and Uncle don’t have such aura?” Chi Feng gave it some thought before asking Qing Shui.
“Tomorrow, Uncle will give you something. It can block off some of your aura. Don’t think about it too much. This aura can hasten your cultivation speed,” Qing Shui said as they walked.
“Thank you Uncle!” Chi Feng said happily.
Compared to Chi Ao, Chi Feng was slightly more outspoken.
“No need to stand on ceremony. If you have anything you want or anything you need help with, just let me know.” Qing Shui’s tone was very soft, but it felt very sincere.
“Uncle, your wife is so pretty!” Chi Feng smiled and looked at Yu He.
“She is very pretty, but she’s not my wife.” Qing Shui smiled and said.
“In the future, she will be. It’s just a matter of time.” Chi Feng blinked. Her eyes had a slight cold gleam. She now looked very cute, but she’ll probably change slowly in the future…
After saying that, Chi Feng secretly smiled and looked at Yu He. Although she was young, she was very intelligent. She only said what she said because she could tell that Yu He wasn’t against it.
Qing Shui didn’t say anything, but Chi Feng got called over by the old village head. Experienced in worldly matters, he could naturally tell that there was something between Qing Shui and Yu He. This was why he only got his granddaughter to stop, but didn’t say anything else.
The stone house was basically the same as it was a year ago. It wasn't very big but it was still relatively spacious, even after they had all entered.
“Our stone house is run-down. I hope you don’t mind.” The old man politely invited Qing Shui and Yu He to sit down.
“Sir, there’s no need to stand on ceremony.”
“Many people have returned to the village and are all putting in a great amount of effort into their training. We can get enough to feed our families just by hunting now and still have some food to spare. There was only one incident where someone got hurt, but it was a minor accident and wasn’t a serious injury. Recently, we’ve even found a small-scale jade mine and it has increased the village’s income by quite a bit.” The old man sounded very happy.
Hearing this, Qing Shui also felt very happy. He had never denied that he was a kind man. Seeing that their lives had been improving, he felt happy from the bottom of his heart.
Their lunch was very sumptuous. Since they hunted, they had both meat and vegetables. The old village head’s culinary skills were quite good and Chi Feng also helped out. The meal was prepared very quickly.
When Qing Shui and the others arrived at the square in the afternoon, there was already quite a number of people from the villages nearby. This time around, there were a lot more youngsters when compared to before.
“Hello Sir!”
“Hello teacher!”
…
Qing Shui waved his hand and said, “Everyone stand properly and perform the Tiger Form together. There’s no need to go all out. Just try your best to perform your Tiger Form perfectly.”
Chi Ao and Chi Feng also joined the crowd. With them in the lead, the others naturally followed. Although the two of them were young, they were already at the Xiantian realm. To the others, they were their role models.
Chi Ao and Chi Feng stood in the lead and the others followed the two of them.
“Remember, you can have different momentums. Don’t use too much strength and aura. Just perform the Tiger Form which you feel is the most perfect.” Qing Shui repeated.
“Start!”
Thanks to Qing Shui’s words, the Tiger Form that they displayed wasn't neat at all. Right now, Qing Shui primarily wanted to see who could show the charm to the Tiger Form.
He was first astonished by Chi Ao and Chi Feng. Their pernicious aura was really powerful. Although it was still insufficient to take form, they were already able to do it with such power. When their cultivations improved in the future, how strong would that pernicious aura be? Qing Shui felt that when their pernicious aura reached a certain level, there would naturally be a way to control it. Right now, he needed to help them keep it in control.
The others didn’t manage to catch his attention. This was a small village and it was hard to encounter real geniuses.
Qing Shui then started to demonstrate the Tiger Form. He started off at a slow pace and merely displayed the movements. He then gradually sped up, bringing in the charm of the move. What he wanted was for them to comprehend the charm of the Tiger Form.
Only by successfully comprehending the charm would they then be able to improve by leaps and bounds. If he were to give them verbal guidance only and let them think through his words, it would be too slow. He wanted to forcefully fill them in and then observe how much they were able to digest.
Qing Shui’s Tiger Form slowly increased in speed, and eventually even reached the Manifestation Realm. The people around him were all astonished. After all, this was the first time that they had seen a powerful expert like Qing Shui. This left a strong mental impact on them.
What Qing Shui wanted was results. If this could allow them to have a stronger mentality, they might be able to achieve something in the future. If their minds were not strong enough, it would be a blow to them. He had actually wanted to show this to Chi Ao and Chi Feng. As for the others, he just let it all to fate.
Unknowingly, it was already late in the afternoon. Qing Shui continued to give them guidance. Qing Shui liked the villagers, as they were honest and easily satisfied with what they had. Sometimes, this was a flaw but sometimes it was a merit. There were always two sides to any matter.
Qing Shui saw the surprise in Chi Ao and Chi Feng’s eyes. Additionally, he saw determination and hope. When he saw their gazes, he felt relieved. This trip hadn't been wasted and he had helped them set a life goal, which was to reach the level he was at now.
One year was neither long or short. Seeing their current achievements, Qing Shui knew that they had put in a lot of hard work in the past year. Moreover, they had been eating meat since a young age and had good physiques. This was a village in the mountain and there was always the threat of wild beasts. Therefore, they had trained since they were young and now they were tempering their bodies with the Tiger Form. The one year period had allowed them a small but qualitative improvement.
Although it was only one afternoon, many people had learned a lot. Just that short amount of time was sufficient.
It was turning dark soon. Many people warmly invited Qing Shui to their homes for dinner. Qing Shui smiled and politely declined them. They went back unwillingly and knew that this might be the last time that they could meet Qing Shui.
At night, both Qing Shui and Yu He found a stone house for themselves. Thankfully, the rooms were very clean. However, Qing Shui gave Yu He a large piece of clean beast hide and blanket. Both of the items were very thick and extremely comfortable. It was the hide of a Peak Martial Saint demonic beast that had recently been tempered by Qing Shui.
Yu He had her own to use, but when she saw the hide that Qing Shui took out, she took them happily. She liked Qing Shui’s attentiveness. The bed in the room was a stone bed and although the beast hide and other stuff were all new, the smell of wild beasts still lingered. She wasn’t able to get used to it.
This was the scent that couldn’t be removed from the hide of low level wild beasts, It was unlike high level demonic beasts whose hide would be extremely clean with a fresh smell as long as they were Xiantian or stronger no dust would gather on them. The hide of a Peak Martial Saint demonic beasts was even cleaner and was so pure that they could even slightly provide warmth in winter and a cooling effect in summer.
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AST 941 – Attempt at carving formations, Small Success Stage of the Buddha’s True Eyes
The skins of high grade Demonic Beasts were especially thick. Of course, this depended on the Demonic Beast. Fox furs, especially from beasts that had been Martial Saints, were some of the best for making coats, but were not especially thick.
Yu He took a snow white beast skin blanket and covered Qing Shui. She smiled at Qing Shui, feeling a certain sweetness in her heart. After she saw that it had been done properly, she said goodnight and went to her room.
After she went in, she closed the door. Qing Shui did not need her to go through all that trouble. If he had wanted to rest, all he had needed to do was to take out the bed he used in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal. Furthermore, he would spend six hours in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal. By then, the sun would have risen. This was how he normally rested.
After he entered the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal, Qing Shui spent some time cultivating and then researched formations.
Finally, Qing Shui started to research the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation.
He knew the effects of the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. Pernicious aura was a kind of Spiritual Qi, which was just a general term. Pernicious aura, Core Qi of Demonic Beasts, and the Qi of Xiantian were all forms of Spiritual Qi.
The Spirit Sealing Minor Formation had sealing abilities. However, Qing Shui was not aware of how its mechanisms worked, which was why he was spending time to research it. However, after sealing Chi Ao and Chi Feng, it would be able to seal their pernicious aura for a period of time.
Even after they got stronger in a few years, it would still be able to restrain their auras. By then, they might be able to control their pernicious auras. After all, that was what they were cultivating.
They cultivated the pernicious aura of their bodies. The stronger their pernicious aura, the stronger their abilities. Thus, Qing Shui wanted to forge these things, and then carve the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation on them, in order to seal any pernicious aura that was released.
The two of them were only in the Xiantian grade, so Qing Shui felt that it should be easy. One day in the Realm of the Violet Jade Immortal was slightly more than three months. He had confidence in succeeding.
First, he researched the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. This formation used the Spiritual Qi of Heaven and Earth to suppress other kinds of Spiritual Qi, but it still left a path for it to trickle out. It was impossible to completely seal Spiritual Qi off. No one could be completely isolated from Spiritual Qi, as even air contained some Spiritual Qi. Completely sealing a person off would result in his death. As to whether there was a method of completely sealing, he was not aware. However, he knew that it is impossible for him to accomplish right now.
After this, he tried laying a Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. Fortunately, he quickly got the hang of it. Although it hadn't yet succeeded, he knew that he would be able to succeed in slightly more than a day’s time.
After laying the formation, Qing Shui would obsessively test it out. Time slowly went by until a glow of formations surrounded him. He knew that he had finally succeeded.
Then, he removed the formation and set it up again repeatedly. This carried on for almost three days before Qing Shui stopped, sat down and closed his eyes. The things he learned in the past three days emerged, every detail clear.
In the following three days, Qing Shui did not touch any formations and instead cultivated. He continued to lay the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation, repeating the cycle. However, he discovered that there were more improvements this time than there had been previously.
Just like this, two months went by. Qing Shui felt that he had a solid grasp on the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation. After all, the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation and Spirit Gathering Formation were formations that were easy to learn.
He had spent so much effort and time because he wanted to understand it deeper and use it later. Now, it was time to forge the pendants.
He first started with some regular metal and produced the pendant base. Then, Qing Shui started to carve the formation on top of it. What Qing Shui was doing was creating a Formation Seal. Formation Seals would be carved on weapons or armors, but they rarely appeared within the Five continents. Even if they appeared, they would not be noticed.
Now, Qing Shui was attempting it, but with only the simplest formation on the pendant. This was a result of his breakthrough in the Ancient Art of Forging and in formations. He only dared to do this after breaking through to the Pentacolor Rainbow Art of Forging. Furthermore, he had only recently grasped formations.
If he had not encountered Chi Ao's and Chi Feng's pernicious aura, Qing Shui would not have attempted to carve formations like this.
High Grade Focused Concentration!
Since Qing Shui started laying the formations, he had been circulating the High Grade Focused Concentration. His Focused Concentration not only increased his abilities by 20%, they also increased concentration and mental capacity. Under such a state, when learning something, his powers of comprehension would be increased.
Fail!
Fail!
……
Qing Shui failed repeatedly. However, there were no changes to his emotions. This was because he had already anticipated this, and did not feel that it was strange. He carved it bit by bit, learning as he continued.
When breaking through to the Pentacolor Rainbow Art of Forging, Qing Shui had gained methods listed on how to carve formations. However, these were just methods and techniques, with the specific details only being discoverable by experimenting. He had to experiment on how to completely carve the Spirit Sealing Minor Formation.
Carving formations exhausted spirit energy. At first, the carving was very smooth but after 30 minutes, when the side needed to be changed, it would suddenly fail. It was like the sensation of a thread breaking.
It kept failing. The item would have to be completely covered in carvings, regardless of the size. This pendant was not large, but it was not small either. If it were too small, Qing Shui would not have the abilities to succeed at the present. When just starting out, people would start carving on something larger. Something that was too small would require extremely precise carving skills and a large amount of spirit energy.
The Spirit Sealing Minor Formation was relatively simple. Thus, he was able to casually carve it on the palm-sized pendant. However, Qing Shui had already failed countless numbers of times.
The position where he switched sides was very important. This was because he needed to connect the spirit energy of the reversed side together at that location.
"Hmm, connection?"
Suddenly, Qing Shui discovered that he had been wasting time on an insignificant problem. When he started carving again, he began from the front, not in a rush to deal with the connection. Instead, he next chose to work on the reverse side.
Fail!
Fail!
……
After another string of failures, Qing Shui started to wonder if this method of working from the back was possible. Could it be that he had to complete it all in one go from the front?
Qing Shui sat silently in thought for 15 minutes before continuing. Maybe because he was carving from the back, the difficulty was higher? He was resolute and tried it again. After resting for while, he kept on going.
He was still failing over and over. Qing Shui was already numb to it. He saw that there were not many pendants left. For the sake of carving formations, Qing Shui had forged many simple pendants, but they were just made of regular metal.
Attempting to carve again, Qing Shui was already used to failure. Just as he expected to fail again, there was no sound indicating failure. Looking at the result, he was incomparably happy. Although he had not completely succeeded, this small success was proof this method was feasible.
It was difficult to make the initial start, but there was slow progress after that. It was like climbing a mountain. Although it was difficult, there would always be some slow progress. It was impossible for anyone to just climb it in one go.
He carved it bit by bit. When he finished carving about half the back, it failed. He put down the damaged pendant but was still pretty excited. He then went to eat something and took a rest.
After that, he pondered silently.
Qing Shui continued to forge more pendants and began to carve again. WIth his earlier success, it was easy to make a start from that point and progress slowly. Seeing that slow progress, he was very happy. It meant a completed pendant was getting nearer bit by bit.
Fail!
Just when he was about to finish the back, he failed again. But on the next try, he actually managed to succeed. This caused Qing Shui to feel surprised. He originally thought that this final breakthrough would be tough, and had even worried about it earlier.
Both sides were completely carved and all that was left was the connection. This connection was the eye of the formation that would activate it and its position was very important. Thus, he was not in a rush to connect the sides with the eye of the formation.
Instead, he picked up another pendant and continued carving. He found that once that he had succeeded once, the carving was easier.
With the High Grade Focused Concentration, he would basically not fail after succeeding just once. Very soon, he had carved tens of pendants. They were all completely carved on both sides. Now, only the final connection was left.
Once he completed the connection, the pendant would be complete. Qing Shui was very excited, because once he succeeded with this Spirit Sealing Minor Formation, it would mean that he would be able to carve formations on weapons and armor from then on.
Maybe even carving the Spirit Gathering Formation…
This would increase a cultivator's recovery speed. In normal conditions, this would increase cultivation speed, and in battle, might even let a little bit of recovery occur.
Qing Shui thought that the future of a Formation Seal Master was not bad……
Calming his emotions down, he allowed himself to reach a state of no expectations. Allowing his spirit to be calm and temporarily forgetting everything. Qing Shui thought of the Golden Buddha Temple.
He thought about that old man, the Buddha’s True Eyes, that Buddha statue. He felt his thoughts turn empty and he slowly closed his eyes. However, his surroundings were all clearly perceived by his mind.
Furthermore, he even saw that Buddha image behind him again. He was astonished, but was still very calm. Suddenly, the Buddha Image opened its eyes. In that instant, Qing Shui was stunned. The profoundness of those eyes was indescribable.
It had spirituality, great changes, slight smiles, grief, righteousness, pain, mercy, killing intent……
Suddenly, Qing Shui felt an energy enter his body. It was not just pure energy, but partly spirit energy. Suddenly Qing Shui opened both his eyes and a faint golden light emerged.
Buddha’s True Eyes!
The Buddha’s True Eyes had actually managed to break through to the Small Success Stage. Although it was just the Small Success Stage, he knew that the Buddha’s True Eyes was very sharp. It could see everything, see through everything, and suppress spirits. Of course, this was just a saying. Actually, the Buddha’s True Eyes could see through the emotions of man, be it grief, pain, or even an injured spirit……
QIng Shui smiled. Truly, what an unexpected gain. When he had wanted it to succeed, it hadn't. Yet at this random moment, it had broken through.
This success led Qing Shui to feel many things. The things that he comprehended with the breakthrough of Buddha’s True Eyes were many. At this moment, he understood a lot more of the world than he did in the past.
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