At the entrance of Ning Xian's residence.
"Master, please come with us."
Ning Xian implored, her eyes glistening with unshed tears that threatened to spill down her cheeks.
"My dear disciple, my place is here, in Autumn Glory City. I cannot leave."
"My heart is with you, but my duty remains with the Jiang Clan."
Qiu Liaoxi offered a warm smile as she stepped forward and gently wiped the tears from Ning Xian's face. Her voice was soft, yet resolute, "Utilizing my alchemy skills, I wish to repay Jiang Chen's benevolence for saving my life, dedicating all that I can to aid the Jiang Clan."
At that moment.
"We shall honor your wishes, Alchemist Qiu."
Jiang Chen bowed respectfully to Qiu Liaoxi.
"Thank you, Young Master Jiang Chen."
"Please take care of my Xian'er, and may the blessings of the heavens and the earth guide and protect you both on your journey."
Qiu Liaoxi added, her gaze lingering on the couple, filled with love and concern.
"Ning Xian, I understand that parting with your master is difficult for you."
"But rest assured!"
"Alchemist Qiu will be safe here with the Jiang Clan. They value her skills and wisdom, and they will ensure her well-being."
Jiang Chen spoke gently, his voice soothing Ning Xian's aching heart.
Hearing these words.
Ning Xian nodded to Jiang Chen, her eyes brimming with trust and gratitude.
Seeing this, Jiang Chen tenderly grasped her hand.
With a final, heartfelt farewell to Qiu Liaoxi, they turned away and approached the estate's entrance.
...
Soon.
Outside the Jiang Clan's estate.
Jiang Chen and Ning Xian stood side by side, as Elder Ge positioned himself behind them, his head bowed and maintaining a solemn demeanor.
Jiang Xingtai, Du Bailei, and Zhou Ruiyu, the three experts of the Mysterious Platform realm, along with a group of prominent figures from Autumn Glory City, bade their farewells one by one...
"Chen'er, while the Starry Abyss Sect possesses abundant resources, they won't be easy to acquire. Take these items with you; they may prove useful!"
"Indeed, indeed, Nephew Jiang Chen, don't assume I've given you too little!"
"Young friend Jiang Chen, please accept these gifts from me. I'll be residing in Autumn Glory City henceforth. Should you require any assistance, don't hesitate to contact me!"
"Young Master Jiang Chen, I stumbled upon this spiritual plant, which is said to be exceptionally beneficial for experts at the Spiritual Awakening realm. Kindly accept it!"
"..."
One by one, everyone stepped forward and placed storage artifacts into Jiang Chen's hands.
'What a commotion!'
'Why are there so many people this time?'
'When I returned to the Starry Abyss Sect from Autumn Glory City before, there weren't this many people to send me off.'
'It seems my Black Heavenly Fate is quite impressive. These gifts can also be considered a stroke of luck.'
'...'
Jiang Chen was slightly taken aback, but he was delighted to accept the gifts.
What pleased him even more was that Du Bailei had decided to settle in Autumn Glory City.
As the president of the White Mountain Chamber of Commerce, he had journeyed extensively not only across the Mysterious Truth Continent but also to other neighboring continents, amassing a wealth of experiences and valuable intelligence-gathering abilities.
In any case, Du Bailei was a highly resourceful individual.
Of course.
There was also a danger lurking behind Du Bailei, which was the person who controlled him using the Swallowing Body Snatching Soul Grass.
If time permitted, it would be worthwhile to have a conversation with him and uncover the identity of the one secretly manipulating him.
Having accepted the gifts from the crowd,
Jiang Chen departed the city alongside Ning Xian, making their way directly to the Starry Abyss Sect.
As for Elder Ge, his astuteness prompted him to lag behind, vanishing from sight in the blink of an eye.
En route,
"This pace is somewhat slow."
Jiang Chen addressed Ning Xian, remarking, "We must arrive at the Starry Abyss Sect as swiftly as possible. Allow me to carry you."
"Alright!"
Ning Xian nodded in consent.
Though still slightly bashful, she had begun to grow accustomed to the idea.
"Ensure you hold on tight."
Jiang Chen offered a faint smile and hoisted Ning Xian onto his back, soaring hundreds of meters into the sky.
"Ah!"
Caught off guard, Ning Xian shrieked in alarm, instinctively clutching Jiang Chen tightly.
And thus...
'So it seems, 'Soft and Fragrant like a Jade' truly does exist!'
'With just a gentle touch, it leaves a lingering aftertaste!'
'...'
Thoughts swirled within Jiang Chen's mind, and a subtle smile gradually emerged on his face.
Shortly thereafter,
"Ah, my apologies!"
"I haven't flown extensively, so my expertise is somewhat limited."
Jiang Chen suddenly exclaimed, causing their flight path to become unsteady and waver...
Time progressed steadily.
Amidst the boundless expanse of the Thousand Star Mountain Range,
The grand Starry Abyss Heavenly Peak, piercing the clouds, came into sight.
Following closely were the towering ancient trees and the dense spiritual Qi that resembled billowing white mist.
Abruptly,
A beam of light traced a graceful arc and descended upon the Starry Abyss Sect's mountain gate plaza, transforming into a man and woman who appeared to have stepped straight from a fairy tale, emanating allure and harmony.
"It's Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen has returned!?"
"Wow, this young lady is so stunning. Could she be a servant brought back by Senior Brother Jiang Chen or...?"
"Refrain from such baseless speculation. Judging by appearances, this young lady's status is far from ordinary. She may very well be Senior Brother Jiang Chen's partner!"
"Setting that aside, this young lady has attained Late-stage Elemental Movement realm cultivation at such a young age. She must be an exceptional prodigy. How envious!"
"..."
Upon catching sight of Jiang Chen and Ning Xian, the disciples immediately fixed their gazes on the pair.
The sect's Grand Competition had recently concluded, and an important announcement was to be made the following day.
As a result, aside from a few disciples with unique circumstances, all other members of the Starry Abyss Sect had gathered, causing the atmosphere to be livelier than usual.
At that moment,
The disciples started conversing amongst themselves, and subsequently approached Jiang Chen one by one to pay their respects.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Greetings, Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen, please accept our respects!"
"..."
"Greetings to all Junior Brothers and Sisters."
Jiang Chen graciously acknowledged each of their salutations.
Shortly after,
Jiang Chen escorted Ning Xian to the Sect Master's Main Hall.
Situated in the middle to upper region of the Star Abyss Heavenly Peak, the Sect Master's Main Hall held a prominent position.
Yet, an even more enigmatic structure lay further up, shrouded in clouds and mist that obstructed divine senses.
Legend had it that this was the Cave Mansion of Chu Xingming, the founder of the Starry Abyss Sect.
Presently, it was believed to house the Hidden Reserves of the Starry Abyss Sect.
Jiang Chen surmised that at least one Heavenly Origin realm powerhouse must be in seclusion within, but whether there were more remained uncertain.
In the blink of an eye,
Jiang Chen guided Ning Xian into the Sect Master's Main Hall.
As the second most remarkable edifice in the Sect, only surpassed by the Mountain Gate, the Main Hall exuded grandeur.
Feng Jun, the current Sect Master of the Starry Abyss Sect, was a diligent worker who spent nearly every day in the Main Hall.
For this reason,
A Spirit Gathering Formation had been specifically constructed within its confines.
At the heart of the Main Hall, a solemn and reverential atmosphere permeated the surroundings.
A magnificent, exquisitely carved wooden table extended horizontally across the hall.
Sect Master Feng Jun was diligently working at the table, his head bowed in deep concentration.
'Villain's Eye!'
With a single thought, Jiang Chen successfully accessed the panel of the other party.
[Name: Feng Jun
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Passerby
Fate Value: 769]
Evidently, Sect Master Feng Jun had also been a supporting character in Lin Feng's plotline, but after Lin Feng's demise, he became a passerby.
Furthermore, his Fate Value appeared to have increased.
"Jiang Chen, what brings you here to see me?"
Feng Jun was meticulously examining the battle rankings and performance records of the disciples participating in the sect's Grand Competition, assessing their potential.
Upon completing his statement,
He also finished perusing the final page, lifting his head to observe Jiang Chen.
Abruptly,
He was momentarily taken aback before his eyes shifted to Ning Xian.
However, before he could inquire,
"This is Ning Xian!"
"I'd like to recommend her as a disciple of the sect!"
"Ning Xian possesses exceptional aptitude, equal to mine, and she is highly skilled in the arts of healing and alchemy."
"As for her background..."
"..."
Jiang Chen proceeded to introduce Ning Xian, providing detailed explanations about her situation one by one.
He did not conceal the existence of the Thousand Green Pill Heart Records either, as there was no necessity to do so.
The sect would not deny disciples their own opportunities, particularly given that he was a core disciple.
Moreover, he elucidated the motives behind the Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain's malicious actions.
Naturally,
Jiang Chen deliberately emphasized the significance of the secret key required to access the Thousand Green Pill Heart Records, mentioning that due to the challenge of comprehending the entire manual, no copies had been created thus far.
This way, nobody would pester Ning Xian.
Additionally,
Jiang Chen was well-acquainted with Feng Jun.
This individual greatly valued the disciples' potential!
For someone as gifted as Ning Xian, there was no possibility that Feng Jun would decline her admission into the sect!
Furthermore, Feng Jun was extremely generous when it came to talented disciples!
Upon hearing Jiang Chen introduce Ning Xian's aptitude,
Feng Jun's interest was suddenly piqued.
He produced a testing artifact for aptitude and assessed Ning Xian, verifying that she indeed possessed Upper Grade aptitude.
"Hahaha!"
"The Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain in the Bright Cloud Continent?"
"I've dealt with them before; those people are truly shameless."
"Ning Xian, from today on, concentrate on your cultivation within the Starry Abyss Sect. If the Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain dares to sully our Sect, I'll strike them down personally!"
"As for the safety of your people in Autumn Glory City, I'll dispatch a Middle-stage Mysterious Platform realm Elder as a precaution!"
Feng Jun laughed heartily while examining the test results, then presented Ning Xian with a disciple token.
The disciple token merely required blood recognition.
Once Ning Xian dripped her blood onto the token, she became an outer disciple of the Starry Abyss Sect.
'Great!'
'I am now a disciple of the Starry Abyss Sect as well!'
'From this moment forward, I can live with Jiang Chen in the Starry Abyss Sect. When I grow stronger, I'll seize an opportunity to return and exact revenge!'
'...'
Ning Xian clutched the disciple token in her hand, her heart swelling with excitement.
At this moment,
"Jiang Chen!"
"Since you brought Ning Xian here, and I can see that your relationship is far from ordinary, you may assume the responsibility of guiding Ning Xian from now on."
Feng Jun cast his gaze over Jiang Chen and Ning Xian, offering a subtle smile.
Suddenly,
Ning Xian's cheeks flushed a delicate pink, and she gently twirled the hem of her skirt with her exquisite, white jade fingers.
"Many thanks, Sect Master!"
"Well then, we shall take our leave!"
Jiang Chen inclined his head respectfully. After all, his intention was to publicly acknowledge his connection with Ning Xian, so as to avert any 'villains' from stirring up trouble!
With that said,
Jiang Chen readied himself to depart with Ning Xian by his side.
"Wait."
"Since you're here, I'll inform you of the announcement that will be made tomorrow, as it's somewhat related to you."
Feng Jun abruptly called out to Jiang Chen.
"Related to me?"
Jiang Chen's eyebrows arched slightly, and his heartbeat quickened just a bit.
How had this suddenly become something related to him!?
Could it be...
At the entrance of Ning Xian's residence.
"Master, please come with us."
Ning Xian implored, her eyes glistening with unshed tears that threatened to spill down her cheeks.
"My dear disciple, my place is here, in Autumn Glory City. I cannot leave."
"My heart is with you, but my duty remains with the Jiang Clan."
Qiu Liaoxi offered a warm smile as she stepped forward and gently wiped the tears from Ning Xian's face. Her voice was soft, yet resolute, "Utilizing my alchemy skills, I wish to repay Jiang Chen's benevolence for saving my life, dedicating all that I can to aid the Jiang Clan."
At that moment.
"We shall honor your wishes, Alchemist Qiu."
Jiang Chen bowed respectfully to Qiu Liaoxi.
"Thank you, Young Master Jiang Chen."
"Please take care of my Xian'er, and may the blessings of the heavens and the earth guide and protect you both on your journey."
Qiu Liaoxi added, her gaze lingering on the couple, filled with love and concern.
"Ning Xian, I understand that parting with your master is difficult for you."
"But rest assured!"
"Alchemist Qiu will be safe here with the Jiang Clan. They value her skills and wisdom, and they will ensure her well-being."
Jiang Chen spoke gently, his voice soothing Ning Xian's aching heart.
Hearing these words.
Ning Xian nodded to Jiang Chen, her eyes brimming with trust and gratitude.
Seeing this, Jiang Chen tenderly grasped her hand.
With a final, heartfelt farewell to Qiu Liaoxi, they turned away and approached the estate's entrance.
...
Soon.
Outside the Jiang Clan's estate.
Jiang Chen and Ning Xian stood side by side, as Elder Ge positioned himself behind them, his head bowed and maintaining a solemn demeanor.
Jiang Xingtai, Du Bailei, and Zhou Ruiyu, the three experts of the Mysterious Platform realm, along with a group of prominent figures from Autumn Glory City, bade their farewells one by one...
"Chen'er, while the Starry Abyss Sect possesses abundant resources, they won't be easy to acquire. Take these items with you; they may prove useful!"
"Indeed, indeed, Nephew Jiang Chen, don't assume I've given you too little!"
"Young friend Jiang Chen, please accept these gifts from me. I'll be residing in Autumn Glory City henceforth. Should you require any assistance, don't hesitate to contact me!"
"Young Master Jiang Chen, I stumbled upon this spiritual plant, which is said to be exceptionally beneficial for experts at the Spiritual Awakening realm. Kindly accept it!"
"..."
One by one, everyone stepped forward and placed storage artifacts into Jiang Chen's hands.
'What a commotion!'
'Why are there so many people this time?'
'When I returned to the Starry Abyss Sect from Autumn Glory City before, there weren't this many people to send me off.'
'It seems my Black Heavenly Fate is quite impressive. These gifts can also be considered a stroke of luck.'
'...'
Jiang Chen was slightly taken aback, but he was delighted to accept the gifts.
What pleased him even more was that Du Bailei had decided to settle in Autumn Glory City.
As the president of the White Mountain Chamber of Commerce, he had journeyed extensively not only across the Mysterious Truth Continent but also to other neighboring continents, amassing a wealth of experiences and valuable intelligence-gathering abilities.
In any case, Du Bailei was a highly resourceful individual.
Of course.
There was also a danger lurking behind Du Bailei, which was the person who controlled him using the Swallowing Body Snatching Soul Grass.
If time permitted, it would be worthwhile to have a conversation with him and uncover the identity of the one secretly manipulating him.
Having accepted the gifts from the crowd,
Jiang Chen departed the city alongside Ning Xian, making their way directly to the Starry Abyss Sect.
As for Elder Ge, his astuteness prompted him to lag behind, vanishing from sight in the blink of an eye.
En route,
"This pace is somewhat slow."
Jiang Chen addressed Ning Xian, remarking, "We must arrive at the Starry Abyss Sect as swiftly as possible. Allow me to carry you."
"Alright!"
Ning Xian nodded in consent.
Though still slightly bashful, she had begun to grow accustomed to the idea.
"Ensure you hold on tight."
Jiang Chen offered a faint smile and hoisted Ning Xian onto his back, soaring hundreds of meters into the sky.
"Ah!"
Caught off guard, Ning Xian shrieked in alarm, instinctively clutching Jiang Chen tightly.
And thus...
'So it seems, 'Soft and Fragrant like a Jade' truly does exist!'
'With just a gentle touch, it leaves a lingering aftertaste!'
'...'
Thoughts swirled within Jiang Chen's mind, and a subtle smile gradually emerged on his face.
Shortly thereafter,
"Ah, my apologies!"
"I haven't flown extensively, so my expertise is somewhat limited."
Jiang Chen suddenly exclaimed, causing their flight path to become unsteady and waver...
Time progressed steadily.
Amidst the boundless expanse of the Thousand Star Mountain Range,
The grand Starry Abyss Heavenly Peak, piercing the clouds, came into sight.
Following closely were the towering ancient trees and the dense spiritual Qi that resembled billowing white mist.
Abruptly,
A beam of light traced a graceful arc and descended upon the Starry Abyss Sect's mountain gate plaza, transforming into a man and woman who appeared to have stepped straight from a fairy tale, emanating allure and harmony.
"It's Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen has returned!?"
"Wow, this young lady is so stunning. Could she be a servant brought back by Senior Brother Jiang Chen or...?"
"Refrain from such baseless speculation. Judging by appearances, this young lady's status is far from ordinary. She may very well be Senior Brother Jiang Chen's partner!"
"Setting that aside, this young lady has attained Late-stage Elemental Movement realm cultivation at such a young age. She must be an exceptional prodigy. How envious!"
"..."
Upon catching sight of Jiang Chen and Ning Xian, the disciples immediately fixed their gazes on the pair.
The sect's Grand Competition had recently concluded, and an important announcement was to be made the following day.
As a result, aside from a few disciples with unique circumstances, all other members of the Starry Abyss Sect had gathered, causing the atmosphere to be livelier than usual.
At that moment,
The disciples started conversing amongst themselves, and subsequently approached Jiang Chen one by one to pay their respects.
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Greetings, Senior Brother Jiang Chen!"
"Senior Brother Jiang Chen, please accept our respects!"
"..."
"Greetings to all Junior Brothers and Sisters."
Jiang Chen graciously acknowledged each of their salutations.
Shortly after,
Jiang Chen escorted Ning Xian to the Sect Master's Main Hall.
Situated in the middle to upper region of the Star Abyss Heavenly Peak, the Sect Master's Main Hall held a prominent position.
Yet, an even more enigmatic structure lay further up, shrouded in clouds and mist that obstructed divine senses.
Legend had it that this was the Cave Mansion of Chu Xingming, the founder of the Starry Abyss Sect.
Presently, it was believed to house the Hidden Reserves of the Starry Abyss Sect.
Jiang Chen surmised that at least one Heavenly Origin realm powerhouse must be in seclusion within, but whether there were more remained uncertain.
In the blink of an eye,
Jiang Chen guided Ning Xian into the Sect Master's Main Hall.
As the second most remarkable edifice in the Sect, only surpassed by the Mountain Gate, the Main Hall exuded grandeur.
Feng Jun, the current Sect Master of the Starry Abyss Sect, was a diligent worker who spent nearly every day in the Main Hall.
For this reason,
A Spirit Gathering Formation had been specifically constructed within its confines.
At the heart of the Main Hall, a solemn and reverential atmosphere permeated the surroundings.
A magnificent, exquisitely carved wooden table extended horizontally across the hall.
Sect Master Feng Jun was diligently working at the table, his head bowed in deep concentration.
'Villain's Eye!'
With a single thought, Jiang Chen successfully accessed the panel of the other party.
[Name: Feng Jun
Realm: Late-stage Mysterious Platform
Status: Passerby
Fate Value: 769]
Evidently, Sect Master Feng Jun had also been a supporting character in Lin Feng's plotline, but after Lin Feng's demise, he became a passerby.
Furthermore, his Fate Value appeared to have increased.
"Jiang Chen, what brings you here to see me?"
Feng Jun was meticulously examining the battle rankings and performance records of the disciples participating in the sect's Grand Competition, assessing their potential.
Upon completing his statement,
He also finished perusing the final page, lifting his head to observe Jiang Chen.
Abruptly,
He was momentarily taken aback before his eyes shifted to Ning Xian.
However, before he could inquire,
"This is Ning Xian!"
"I'd like to recommend her as a disciple of the sect!"
"Ning Xian possesses exceptional aptitude, equal to mine, and she is highly skilled in the arts of healing and alchemy."
"As for her background..."
"..."
Jiang Chen proceeded to introduce Ning Xian, providing detailed explanations about her situation one by one.
He did not conceal the existence of the Thousand Green Pill Heart Records either, as there was no necessity to do so.
The sect would not deny disciples their own opportunities, particularly given that he was a core disciple.
Moreover, he elucidated the motives behind the Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain's malicious actions.
Naturally,
Jiang Chen deliberately emphasized the significance of the secret key required to access the Thousand Green Pill Heart Records, mentioning that due to the challenge of comprehending the entire manual, no copies had been created thus far.
This way, nobody would pester Ning Xian.
Additionally,
Jiang Chen was well-acquainted with Feng Jun.
This individual greatly valued the disciples' potential!
For someone as gifted as Ning Xian, there was no possibility that Feng Jun would decline her admission into the sect!
Furthermore, Feng Jun was extremely generous when it came to talented disciples!
Upon hearing Jiang Chen introduce Ning Xian's aptitude,
Feng Jun's interest was suddenly piqued.
He produced a testing artifact for aptitude and assessed Ning Xian, verifying that she indeed possessed Upper Grade aptitude.
"Hahaha!"
"The Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain in the Bright Cloud Continent?"
"I've dealt with them before; those people are truly shameless."
"Ning Xian, from today on, concentrate on your cultivation within the Starry Abyss Sect. If the Purple Bamboo Spirit Mountain dares to sully our Sect, I'll strike them down personally!"
"As for the safety of your people in Autumn Glory City, I'll dispatch a Middle-stage Mysterious Platform realm Elder as a precaution!"
Feng Jun laughed heartily while examining the test results, then presented Ning Xian with a disciple token.
The disciple token merely required blood recognition.
Once Ning Xian dripped her blood onto the token, she became an outer disciple of the Starry Abyss Sect.
'Great!'
'I am now a disciple of the Starry Abyss Sect as well!'
'From this moment forward, I can live with Jiang Chen in the Starry Abyss Sect. When I grow stronger, I'll seize an opportunity to return and exact revenge!'
'...'
Ning Xian clutched the disciple token in her hand, her heart swelling with excitement.
At this moment,
"Jiang Chen!"
"Since you brought Ning Xian here, and I can see that your relationship is far from ordinary, you may assume the responsibility of guiding Ning Xian from now on."
Feng Jun cast his gaze over Jiang Chen and Ning Xian, offering a subtle smile.
Suddenly,
Ning Xian's cheeks flushed a delicate pink, and she gently twirled the hem of her skirt with her exquisite, white jade fingers.
"Many thanks, Sect Master!"
"Well then, we shall take our leave!"
Jiang Chen inclined his head respectfully. After all, his intention was to publicly acknowledge his connection with Ning Xian, so as to avert any 'villains' from stirring up trouble!
With that said,
Jiang Chen readied himself to depart with Ning Xian by his side.
"Wait."
"Since you're here, I'll inform you of the announcement that will be made tomorrow, as it's somewhat related to you."
Feng Jun abruptly called out to Jiang Chen.
"Related to me?"
Jiang Chen's eyebrows arched slightly, and his heartbeat quickened just a bit.
How had this suddenly become something related to him!?
Could it be...
