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Fang Xi took a sip of wine, quietly celebrating his nineteenth birthday.

‘Southern wilderness… I wonder how it fares now?’

Initially, he had randomly chosen a location for his transmigration, and theoretically, returning wouldn’t pose significant danger. However, Fang Xi decided to wait until he became a Zongshi before going back to assess the situation.

After all, the concept of time differs greatly between cultivators and ordinary people. Wars could last decades or even centuries.

Qingzhu Mountain’s vicinity must still be chaotic, so patience was key.

Having reached the fourth step as a martial artist, the next stage involved harmonizing with the universe, emphasizing sudden enlightenment rather than external resources or environment.

However, it was precisely this lack of requirement that concerned Fang Xi!

Otherwise, he might have attempted a breakthrough using potent spiritual medicines!

“It’s not entirely hopeless… According to rumors, during Qingzhu Mountain’s auction gatherings, there have been instances where a ‘Spirit Enlightenment Pill’ was sold. It temporarily enhances a cultivator’s comprehension… The final bid reportedly went for hundreds of spirit stones.”

“If I had one, it might accelerate my understanding of Harmony with Nature?”

“Unfortunately, even with spirit stones, there’s no guarantee I could acquire such a pill.”

Fang Xi sighed and began tidying up the wolf pelt on his table.

He had spent a hefty sum to purchase this wolf pelt in Three Origins City - specifically, the hide of a faewolf! Alongside it, he also collected a necklace made from wolf teeth as an added bonus.

These items would be valuable for future trade in the southern wilderness, equivalent to spirit stones!

However, given Fang Leng’s status, occasionally gathering mythical beast materials could pass as personal interest, but amassing large quantities would draw unwanted attention. Moreover, the primary source for such materials in Three Origins City was the Hunters Guild!

‘Someday, all these resources will bear the name Fang!’

‘But not yet.’

Fang Xi carefully stored away the faewolf pelt and headed towards the training grounds.

Sun Hongdie, having been thoroughly discouraged by him, had already returned home to get married. Now, only a few remaining students practiced at the training grounds, all of whom were recent recruits.

“Master!”

Qing Sang, now promoted to Da-shixiong (eldest disciple), had benefited greatly from ample food and resumed martial arts training. Over the past year, he grew rapidly, taking on a more mature appearance resembling a young adult.

Notably, after defeating an entire street’s worth of beggars, he had reclaimed their territory from rival gangs. This allowed him to gather many young beggars who not only begged but also monopolized businesses like vegetable trading and night soil collection. While they didn’t earn vast riches daily, their income far surpassed that of ordinary civilians, enabling them to secure lodging near Fang Xi’s dojo.

“Hmm… Already achieved three transformations of blood and qi? Excellent work!” With just one glance, Fang Xi recognized Qing Sang’s breakthrough in martial arts realm.

“This is all thanks to Master’s guidance!” Qing Sang responded humbly with a smile. “I still fall far short compared to A-Dai… He condensed his true force over a month ago. Considering this year’s Martial Union Eight Horses selection, I believe Shidi has a high chance of being chosen. When that happens, Master’s dojo will gain significant renown.”

The Martial Union refers to the alliance of dojos, and as for these new talent evaluations, Fang Xi had always been indifferent.

However, what surprised him was finding out that among the contenders this time was Zhang Mingding from Baiyun Dojo!

Recalling how Zhang Junming had adopted Mingding when he was merely a beggar, it brought comfort knowing that his achievements would surely please Zhang Junming’s spirit wherever he may be now.

“By the way… Where’s A-Dai?”

Fang Xi glanced around but didn’t spot A-Dai, prompting him to curiously inquire:

“A disturbance broke out near the street corner,” Qing Sang calmly replied. “A-Dai Shidi, being courageous and just, has already gone to handle it. It’s the Black Tiger Gang causing trouble again, demanding increased monthly payments…”

“I see.”

Fang Xi understood the situation.

In recent years, the gang dynamics in Three Origins City had become increasingly chaotic, undergoing several major shifts. Surprisingly, Fang Xi bore some responsibility for this upheaval!

It all stemmed from the fall of the Huang Family!

As one of the four prominent clans, since their strongest martial expert was brutally defeated by Fang Xi and their ancestral home left devastated, the Huang Family rapidly declined. Within months, they were annihilated with not a single survivor!

The remaining three great families and other influential groups quietly divided the Huang Family’s former interests among themselves. With the collapse of such a colossal entity like the Huang Family, those above sought larger shares while smaller factions below fiercely fought over scraps.

This led to considerable chaos, marked by intense gang rivalries during that period. However, these conflicts generally did not affect ordinary citizens.

Shortly thereafter, a young man dressed in green approached the dojo from outside.

His features remained ordinary, eyes devoid of spirit, giving off a dull and vacant appearance.

“Qing Mu-Shixiong!”

“Greetings, Qing Mu-Shixiong!”

Despite his lackluster demeanor, the dojo apprentices dared not show any disrespect and promptly bowed to him.

Ah, A-Dai’s full name was indeed Qing Mu, chosen by Fang Xi himself. Later, A-Dai adopted Qing Sang’s surname as well.

However, both Qing Sang and Fang Xi still preferred calling him A-Dai.

“Master, Dage… it’s taken care of.”

Qing Mu approached Fang Xi, first paying his respects before addressing Qing Sang.

He had now reached the dojo master realm. In other cities, he could easily open his own dojo—well, either for deception or legitimately establishing a martial lineage.

“Hmm, good that it’s resolved. Eh?” Fang Xi stepped forward and felt Qing Mu’s arm, noting, “Your blood qi accumulation is remarkably swift… The true force realm can’t hold you back anymore, excellent, truly impressive…”

Fang Xi nodded repeatedly, visibly delighted.

After all, the Protocosmic Divine Intent Diagram was casually drawn by him, yet Qing Mu managed to break through using it, confirming that his path was on the right track!

If Qing Mu could continue along the path of the Primordial True Art, eventually achieving True Force, it would signify that this art’s foundation was solid and largely free from significant flaws.

“Unfortunately… as your teacher, I am merely at the true force realm myself. However, here’s what we’ll do - come tonight, I have some insights and experiences to discuss with you.”

Fang Xi publicly claimed to be at the true force realm, even as dojo master.

After all, within the Martial Union itself, few individuals managed to break through to become True Strength Martial Artists.

Naturally, Fang Xi preferred not to draw undue attention.

“Master, does this mean our Primordial True Art could potentially lead to becoming a martial artist?” Qing Sang’s eyes lit up, quickly nudging Qing Mu’s head towards Fang Xi. “Hurry, thank your Master!”

Being a martial artist was truly prestigious! Although Three Origins City served as the capital of Ding Province, powerful factions strictly controlled access to high-level martial arts and secret techniques.

Achieving the rank of martial artist represented reaching the upper echelons.

Consequently, how valuable would a cultivation technique be if it could potentially train one to become a martial artist? Even Qing Sang couldn’t fathom its worth.

“Oh, thank you, Master.” Compared to Qing Sang’s enthusiasm, Qing Mu remained somewhat dazed, only expressing gratitude when prompted by his brother’s nudge.

Yuanhe Mountain.

Lei Ji Peak.

Linghu Shan reclined in his chair, facing a massive copper hotpot before him. Carved wooden charcoal, shaped like various beasts, emitted flames that eagerly licked the pot’s base, causing the milky-white broth inside to boil vigorously.

Surrounding the hotpot were porcelain plates piled high with beef, lamb, and assorted vegetables. Nearby stood an ice-carved crystal basin filled with chilled fruits, both visually appealing and enticingly appetizing.

“Linghu Shan!”

Fang Xi approached and casually tossed over a large yellow gourd.

“Hm?”

Linghu Shan caught it, removed the stopper, and gulped down a hearty mouthful before exhaling contentedly, “Excellent wine…”

Fang Xi sat by the hotpot, picking up chopsticks to add meat while grumbling, “I can’t help but feel you’re leading me astray. That so-called Zongshi’s ‘Worldly Heart Refinement’ seems utterly ineffective…”

“Ha ha, young friend, you’re too impatient. It’s been only a few years… This spirit monkey wine is superb; bring more next time!” Linghu Shan took another big swig, devouring chunks of meat as he spoke through a mouthful, somewhat muffled, “Even with your exceptional talent, breaking through to Zongshi requires the right opportunity… In truth, if you achieve it within ten years, your martial arts aptitude could be unmatched for a century in Ding Province. Even those old codgers from the Grandmaster Association would be astonished.”

“Grandmaster Association? What organization is that?” Fang Xi’s interest piqued.

Chatting with Linghu Shan always revealed some insider information, which was one of the reasons he occasionally sought him out.

“The Grandmaster Association… it’s a mysterious group spread throughout Great Liang. Membership requires being a True Astral Martial Saint, supposedly aiming to explore realms beyond the Martial Saint level…” Linghu Shan seemed lost in thought.

“Beyond Martial Saint?!” Fang Xi’s heart stirred. “Have they found anything?”

“Unfortunately, no. The Zongshi realm appears to be the pinnacle for martial practitioners.” Linghu Shan shook his head regretfully.

“That truly is unfortunate.”

Fang Xi felt slightly disappointed.

He had initially believed this world might have Foundation Establishment body cultivators, only to find out that True Astral Martial Saint is indeed the limit!

“The Grandmaster Association consists of individuals who refuse to accept this limitation. They believe there must be higher realms beyond Martial Saint and thus began studying demons… Particularly focusing on the devil’s immortality and magical energy traits, seen as potential keys to advancement. They conducted numerous gruesome experiments, but alas, without any significant breakthroughs…” Linghu Shan sighed deeply.

“Studying… devils?” Fang Xi suddenly sneered, “When it comes to gruesome acts, your Yuanhe Mountain’s Seed Demon Technique certainly rivals them. Or perhaps… did you acquire this secret technique from the Grandmaster Association?”

“Haha, the Grandmaster Association is merely a loose organization. In my youth, I indeed joined it as an individual,” Linghu Shan admitted without denial.

“Looks like…once I become a Zongshi, I should visit the Grandmaster Association myself,” Fang Xi resolved internally.

After finishing his meal, he stood up and declared, “Linghu Shan, let’s have another battle!”

Despite being only a Fourth Step martial artist, engaging with a Martial Saint might offer insights into harnessing true astral energy, taking the first step towards transforming True Force into True Astral Energy!

“Another fight?” Linghu Shan rolled his eyes and lay back down immediately. “Nope, not interested… Your secret technique with that light shield is too unfair - you can hit me, but I can’t retaliate. It takes all the fun out of it…”

Truthfully, Linghu Shan was genuinely curious about Ghostweary Fang Leng’s secret technique. Unfortunately, Fang Xi guarded it closely, denying him any chance to observe it.

‘Could it be some imitation of devil abilities?’

Linghu Shan quickly changed the subject, guessing internally, “In reality, whether one chooses the path of worldly indulgence or the route of life-and-death combat for breakthroughs, the most crucial aspect is recognizing one’s own heart. This serves as the starting point for becoming a Zongshi!”

“A Zongshi’s heart? My heart?” Fang Xi was taken aback.