Chapter 101 Feng Sanniang visits! She meets with Elder Liu Liandian!
Half a month later, at the Lingmu Peak cave.
It was midday, and sunlight refracted through the cleverly crafted crystals on the cave ceiling, casting dappled shadows in the cave hall, warm yet not dry.
The air was filled with the faint fragrance of herbs and tea, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
On a stone platform in a corner of the cave, Zhou Ding and Xin Ruyin sat facing each other, with a rather old leather array diagram spread out in front of them.
This is a sketch of a complex defensive early warning formation that Xin Ruyin recently derived and simplified from the "Tianyuan Formation Manual".
After Zhou Ding formed his core, his ability to perceive and utilize the spiritual energy of heaven and earth greatly increased. Through this process of analogy, he also gained many new insights into the Dao of Formations.
The two were discussing in hushed tones the details of one of the connection points between the runes and the spiritual energy node, sometimes frowning in deep thought, and sometimes sketching a few lines on the jade tablet next to them.
"...If a trace of the sharpness of 'Geng metal' is added as a bridge to the transformation between 'Kan water' and 'Li fire' here, it may be able to speed up the flow of the formation and enhance the instantaneous response to a surprise attack. However, the requirements for the spiritual conductivity of the formation materials will be higher."
Zhou Ding gathered a point of pale golden magic power at his fingertips and outlined a simple three-element structure in the void.
Xin Ruyin stared intently at the magical lines, pondered for a moment, and nodded gently: "What Zhou Lang said makes sense. However, the sharpness of this 'Geng Metal' needs to be pure, and it needs to be compatible with the 'Green Wood' attribute of the main formation, otherwise there may be internal friction. I still have some 'Golden Thread Vine' cores that I collected in my early years. This substance belongs to the metal and wood elements, which may be useful."
The two were engrossed in their discussion when a light footstep approached from afar.
Xiao Mei held a faintly glowing communication talisman in her hand and walked over quickly, her face showing a mixture of curiosity and caution.
"Miss, young master,"
Xiao Mei handed the communication talisman to Zhou Ding: "The signal came from the formation outside the cave just now, it seems to be for the young master."
Zhou Ding took the transmission talisman, scanned it with his divine sense, raised his eyebrows slightly, and revealed a hint of doubt in his eyes.
A slightly mature and respectful female voice came from the talisman: "Feng Sanniang, the chief steward of the Six-Linked Palace stationed on Kui Xing Island, has taken the liberty of visiting and humbly requests an audience with the newly promoted Core Formation True Person Zhou Ding to congratulate him on his great success in achieving the Golden Core stage. I also have a matter to discuss with him, and I hope that he will spare some time to meet with me."
Feng San Niang?
Zhou Ding remembered this woman; three years ago, when Zhou Jin reached the Core Formation stage, she brought several managers from the Six Linked Halls to watch.
She is a female cultivator at the Pseudo-Core Formation stage, capable in her actions, and holds a high position in the Six Halls of Kui Xing Island.
However, he had no dealings with the Six-Linked Palace, and had never had any interaction with this Feng Sanniang.
Why did she suddenly come to visit?
Was he representing the Six-Linked Palace to extend goodwill and make friends, or did he have ulterior motives?
As thoughts raced through his mind, Zhou Ding remained outwardly calm and said to Xin Ruyin, "It's Steward Feng from the Six-Linked Hall. Please invite her in."
"I'll go greet them." Xiaomei understood and turned to leave.
Xin Ruyin quickly tidied up the array diagrams and other items on the table, sat quietly beside Zhou Ding, and resumed her usual elegant and composed demeanor.
Before long, Xiaomei led in a middle-aged woman dressed in a purple palace gown, with an elegant demeanor and a beautiful face. It was Feng Sanniang.
Her attire today was more formal than when she attended the ceremony at Lingmu Peak last time. Her hair was styled in a high bun, adorned with a jade hairpin. The ornaments jingled softly as she moved, exuding an elegant air of someone who had long held a high position.
However, her demeanor was extremely respectful. Upon entering the hall, her gaze immediately fell upon Zhou Ding, who sat regally in the main seat. She then quickly took a few steps, stopping about ten feet away from Zhou Ding, curtsied, and spoke in a clear, melodious voice:
"Feng Sanniang of the Six-Linked Palace pays respects to Senior Zhou. Congratulations on your great success in achieving the Golden Core stage; your path to immortality is now clear!"
She addressed him as "Senior Zhou" instead of "True Man Zhou" or "Fellow Daoist Zhou," showing a very humble attitude and clearly placing herself in the position of a junior, even though she was probably much older than Zhou Ding.
This embodies the principle of strength above all else in the cultivation world. The difference between forming a core and a fake core, though only a step apart, is like heaven and earth.
"No need for formalities, Steward Feng, please have a seat." Zhou Ding slightly raised his hand, gesturing for Xiao Mei to offer a seat and tea. Xin Ruyin also nodded slightly to Feng San Niang in greeting.
After thanking her, Feng Sanniang sat down in the guest seat with an upright posture.
Her gaze swept quickly across the hall, but she didn't see the figure in black robes. A barely perceptible hint of doubt flashed in her eyes as she spoke first, "Senior Zhou, I heard that your elder brother, Vice Island Master Zhou Jin, is also in the manor. May I ask..."
"My elder brother is currently in seclusion, consolidating his cultivation, and it is inconvenient for him to receive guests," Zhou Ding explained calmly. They had already agreed on a story: Zhou Jin was Zhou Ding's "cousin," and the two of them had come to Kui Xing Island together.
"I see, I was being presumptuous." Feng Sanniang quickly nodded in understanding, then took out a foot-long, exquisitely carved sandalwood box from her sleeve, presented it with both hands, and said respectfully, "Senior Zhou's successful completion of the Golden Core is a great event for the cultivation world of Kui Xing Island. Our Six Lian Hall has prepared a small gift to express our congratulations, and we hope that Senior will accept it."
Zhou Ding did not immediately take it, but calmly looked at the wooden box.
Feng Sanniang carefully placed the wooden box on the tea table between the two of them and gently opened the lid.
A rich, violent aura, yet imbued with pure demonic power, instantly spread out. Inside the wooden box, lined with red silk, lay a round bead about the size of a fist, deep blue in color, with wisps of silver lightning patterns flowing across its surface!
Inside the sphere, it seemed as if a miniature thunderstorm ocean was sealed, with faint, low rumbling sounds emanating from it.
"This is a demon core from a level-five demon beast, the Silver-Winged Thunder Crab. It contains pure demonic power with both lightning and water attributes. Whether used for alchemy, weapon crafting, or as an aid in cultivating certain lightning-attribute techniques, it is an excellent item. This is a congratulatory gift specially prepared for you by Elder Miao of the Six-Linked Hall," Feng Sanniang introduced, her tone carrying a hint of barely perceptible pride.
A level-five lightning-attribute demon core is not like an ordinary level-five demon core; it is quite valuable, making this congratulatory gift truly substantial.
However, Zhou Ding only glanced at it before slowly shaking his head, gently pushing the wooden box back, his tone still calm: "I appreciate the kindness of Deacon Feng and Elder Miao. However, I have no prior relationship with your esteemed hall, and I cannot accept such a generous gift without having done anything for you. Please convey my thanks to Elder Miao to Deacon Feng."
Feng San Niang's smile faltered slightly, and a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes.
She hadn't expected Zhou Ding to so readily refuse a valuable level-five demon core.
However, she quickly composed herself, her smile unchanged as she took back the wooden box without insisting, and said, "Senior, your noble character is truly admirable. It was my oversight."
She paused, then changed the subject, asking seemingly casually, "I recently heard that Island Master Mulong warmly invited you to serve as the deputy island master of Kuixing Island, but you politely declined. Is this... true?"
Zhou Ding picked up the spirit tea offered by Xiao Mei, took a sip, looked up at Feng San Niang, and a half-smile appeared on his lips: "Steward Feng is quite well-informed. Indeed, I am used to a leisurely life and am not fond of mundane affairs, so I politely declined the kind offer from the Wood Dragon Island Master."
"You flatter me, senior."
Feng Sanniang also picked up her teacup, covering her lips with her sleeve, a glint of shrewdness flashing in her eyes: "Senior's unwillingness to be bound by the position of deputy island lord is a true reflection of your nature, a pursuit of the carefree path. However..."
She put down her teacup, her gaze becoming more serious as she looked at Zhou Ding and slowly said, "I wonder if Senior would be interested in joining my Six Linked Palaces?"
Upon hearing this, Xiaomei, who was standing to the side, couldn't help but blink curiously.
Xin Ruyin also raised her eyes and calmly looked at Feng Sanniang.
Zhou Ding put down his teacup, gently tracing the warm, smooth surface of the cup with his fingers. He looked at Feng San Niang and asked, "What do you mean by that, Steward Feng? I don't know much about your esteemed palace, so please explain."
Feng Sanniang leaned forward slightly, lowered her voice, and spoke with sincerity and a hint of barely perceptible urgency: "Senior, besides offering my congratulations, I am here on the orders of Elder Miao Limiao, the resident elder of the Six-Linked Hall in the Inner Sea."
Elder Miao had long heard of the renowned elder brothers, especially their extraordinary achievements in achieving the Golden Core stage, which had earned him high praise. He eagerly awaited their arrival. Elder Miao instructed a junior to convey his request that they graciously request their presence at the White Water Pavilion on Tiandu Street. Elder Miao had important matters to discuss with them in person.
Elders of the Six-Hall Hall?
Miao Li?
Zhou Ding's mind raced with thoughts.
The Six-Hall Alliance is a large-scale commercial alliance spanning the Chaotic Star Sea. Its "elders" are at least at the Core Formation stage and wield real power.
Why would someone like him specifically seek out a newcomer like him who had just formed his core and had no foundation in the Chaotic Star Sea?
Did they see his potential and want to recruit him?
Or is there another motive?
After a moment's hesitation, Zhou Ding had made his decision.
If someone invites you with courtesy, and you keep refusing, it will make you seem guilty, and you might needlessly offend a powerful organization.
It's good to see them; it'll be a good opportunity to probe the true nature of the Six Linked Palaces and see what they really intend to do.
"Since Elder Miao has extended such a warm invitation, it would be disrespectful of me to refuse."
Zhou Ding smiled slightly, stood up, and said, "Please lead the way, Steward Feng."
Upon hearing this, Feng Sanniang's face immediately lit up with joy, and she quickly stood up: "It is an honor for this junior and Elder Miao that you would deign to grace us with your presence, Senior! Please, Senior!"
Zhou Ding nodded slightly to Xin Ruyin to reassure her, then instructed Xiao Mei to keep an eye on the cave before walking out with Feng Sanniang.
……
A moment later, two streaks of light landed outside the iconic giant light barrier on Tiandu Street in the northern district of Kui Xing City.
Today was not market day, so there were slightly fewer cultivators in Tiandu Street than usual, but the flow of people was still constant.
The arrival of Zhou Ding and Feng San Niang did not attract much attention, after all, there were quite a few Foundation Establishment and Pseudo Core Formation cultivators coming and going from this place every day.
Feng San Niang presented her token, and the guards respectfully allowed her to pass.
As you pass through the light curtain, a rich spiritual energy washes over you.
Without lingering, the two headed straight for the "White Water Pavilion," one of the six magnificent pavilions at the edge of the White Jade Square.
Baishui Tower remains magnificent, standing five stories high with carved beams and painted rafters. Two disciples with cultivation levels in the late stage of Qi Refining stand guard at the entrance.
Baishui Tower remains magnificent, standing five stories high with carved beams and painted rafters. Two disciples with cultivation levels in the late stage of Qi Refining stand guard at the entrance.
As Feng Sanniang and Zhou Dinggang approached, a middle-aged man dressed in a brocade robe, with a wealthy face and shrewd eyes, quickly came out of the building to greet them. He was none other than Cao Lu, the manager of Baishuilou.
He had clearly been instructed to wait here beforehand.
Cao Lu's gaze swept quickly over Zhou Ding, sensing the unfathomable pressure emanating from the Core Formation cultivator. His face immediately broke into a fawning smile, and he bowed deeply: "Junior Cao Lu welcomes Senior Zhou! Elder Miao is already waiting on the third floor, please come in! Deacon Feng, please come in as well!"
His posture was even more respectful than that of Feng Sanniang, and he personally led the way, guiding Zhou Ding and Feng Sanniang into the Baishui Tower.
The lobby on the first floor was filled with various magical artifacts and materials, a dazzling array, and many cultivators were selecting them. Cao Lu did not stop, but led the two through the crowd and up the side staircase.
The staircase is made of precious fragrant wood and covered with soft carpets. The walls on both sides are decorated with landscape paintings with a profound artistic conception, showing luxury and style.
Upon reaching the third floor, the environment suddenly became much quieter.
At the end of the corridor was a heavy, closed door made of sandalwood, carved with auspicious clouds and cranes, emitting a faint, calming fragrance.
Cao Lu stopped in front of the door, straightened his clothes, and then gently knocked on the door. In a voice eight octaves lower than usual, he announced with utmost respect, "Elder Miao, Senior Zhou has arrived."
After a brief silence, a slightly aged yet deep and calm voice came from inside the door: "Please come in."
Cao Lu then carefully pushed open the door, stepped aside, and bowed, gesturing for him to enter.
Zhou Ding walked in calmly. Feng Sanniang followed closely behind, while Cao Lu tactfully stayed outside and gently closed the door behind him.
This is an extremely spacious and elegant VIP room.
The floor was covered with a thick, exquisitely embroidered cloud-patterned silk carpet, which made no sound when stepped on. On the display cabinet against the wall, several antique porcelain and jade carvings were displayed.
A large rosewood tea table sits by the window, upon which rests a set of purple clay teaware, steaming and releasing the aroma of tea. Sunlight filters through the half-rolled bamboo blinds, casting sparse shadows in the room, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
An elderly man sat upright at the head of the tea table.
He looked to be around sixty years old, with a thin face, slightly high cheekbones, and eyes that, though not large, were exceptionally bright and piercing, as if they could see into people's hearts.
His beard and hair were already gray, but they were combed meticulously.
He was dressed in a dark blue, high-quality cloud-patterned robe, with a jade belt around his waist. His aura was calm and composed, and his movements were natural and harmonious. He was clearly a cultivator in the early stage of Core Formation!
However, the refinement of his magical power and the composure of his demeanor clearly indicate that he had been immersed in the early stages of Core Formation for many years, making him incomparable to ordinary newly formed Core Formation cultivators.
Upon seeing Zhou Ding enter, the old man put down a piece of warm jade he had been playing with, a gentle smile appearing on his face. He stood up, cupped his hands, and said, "I am Miao Li, one of the Six Lian Hall Elders. Fellow Daoist Zhou, it is an honor for me to grace you with my presence. I apologize for not greeting you properly. Congratulations on your great success in achieving the Golden Core stage! From now on, your path to immortality will be smooth!"
His attitude was polite yet showed the appreciation of a senior for an outstanding junior, striking a perfect balance between propriety and excessive flattery.
Zhou Ding returned the greeting with a cupped hand, his expression calm: "Elder Miao, you are too kind. I am a newcomer to the Core Formation stage, and my cultivation is shallow. I am unworthy of such praise from you. It is my honor to be summoned by you today."
"Haha, Fellow Daoist Zhou, you are too modest. Please sit down, please sit down." Miao Li smiled and gestured for Zhou Ding to take a seat in the guest area.
Feng Sanniang silently walked to Miao Li's side and stood behind him, her hands at her sides. Cao Lu did not come in.
The two sat down as host and guest, respectively. Miao Li personally poured Zhou Ding a cup of fragrant spiritual tea, the tea soup amber in color and filled with spiritual energy. "This is 'Mist Peak Spiritual Bud,' produced on Mist Hidden Island. It can only be harvested once every hundred years. It has the effect of calming the mind and nourishing the meridians. Fellow Daoist Zhou, please try it."
"Thank you." Zhou Ding picked up the teacup, gently inhaled the aroma, and took a small sip. The tea was indeed fragrant and smooth, with a gentle, refreshing sensation spreading down his throat, soothing his mind and spirit. "Excellent tea."
Miao Li also took a sip of tea, put down his teacup, and his gaze fell on Zhou Ding again, filled with undisguised scrutiny and admiration. He slowly said, "Fellow Daoist Zhou and your elder brother, Vice Island Master Zhou Jin, have only been on my Kui Xing Island for a little over ten years, yet they have both broken through the insurmountable barrier and condensed their Golden Cores. It is truly astonishing! In my many years of patrolling the outer seas, I have rarely seen such exceptionally talented individuals as you two. Especially Fellow Daoist Zhou, the auspicious signs and solid foundation you have achieved this time far surpass those of others. Your future achievements are undoubtedly limitless!"
"Elder Miao, you flatter me. It was just a stroke of luck," Zhou Ding replied humbly, but a sense of vigilance crept into his heart.
The other party must have something in mind for such flattery.
Sure enough, after a few polite words, Miao Li's expression turned serious. He stroked his gray beard, looked intently at Zhou Ding, and finally revealed the true purpose of his trip:
He paused briefly, observing Zhou Ding's expression. Seeing that he remained calm, he continued, "I presume that Steward Feng has already conveyed my thoughts to you, Fellow Daoist. I heard that you declined the invitation from Island Master Mulong to serve as the deputy island master, choosing instead to travel far and wide and cultivate freely. I deeply understand and admire this. The path to enlightenment is long and arduous; one must indeed broaden one's horizons and cultivate opportunities widely."
"only."
Miao Li then changed the subject, his tone becoming more sincere and solemn, "The path of cultivation also requires resources, fellow practitioners, and protection. The path of independent cultivators, though free, is fraught with peril. My Six Linked Palace spans the islands of the Chaotic Star Sea, establishing alliances through commerce, with resource channels extending in all directions and information networks reaching every island. Within the palace, there are countless experts, all bound together by a common spirit. For truly talented individuals, my Six Linked Palace has always been generous with resources, devoting all its efforts to their cultivation and support."
He leaned forward slightly, his gaze fixed on Zhou Ding, and said, word by word, "Fellow Daoist Zhou, today I, on behalf of the Six Linked Palaces, formally invite you to join our palace and serve as an 'Elder'! What do you say, fellow Daoist?"