Though they had only known each other for three months, Zhang Yuanqing was already very familiar with his superior, down to his every expression—no, every movement. He could clearly sense the emotions behind them. Now he was displeased, hmm, rather temperamental. Zhang Yuanqing murmured to himself, then took out a thin stack of worn-broken sha symbols, and got straight to the point: "These are talismans left behind by Lady San Mountain. They are the pure yang school's supreme technique, requiring the infusion of the Sun God's power to be crafted—thus, they are consumable at the master level. Of course, they lack strong offensive capabilities; their primary function is purification, and they are exceptionally effective against vengeful spirits. Though not particularly advanced, I believe—well, under the circumstances—" He had just begun to explain how these sha symbols might prove particularly effective in prevention and addressing the concerns related to the pure yang abbot when Fu Qingyang swiftly interrupted him: "How many do you have? What's the cost of producing them? Can they be mass-produced?"
The sudden spark in Fu Qingyang's eyes, his slightly forward-leaning posture, and his eager tone—all of it made Zhang Yuanqing pause, though he still didn't display an overly dramatic emotional shift. It was rather rare for someone so accustomed to maintaining composure, like the money-tempered Gong Zi.
He picked up the worn talisman from the table, stood up, and walked out, saying, "On price, I'll do my best to secure a favorable deal—yet remember, you're an official. You must understand the official style: the significance of the medal always outweighs money. It's always better to offer half-sell, half-give. Political awareness must be high. As for the final outcome, I'll keep you posted!"
Fu Qingyang returned to his study, spread out the talismans in his hands, and paused slightly.
There were eleven talismans in total.
One of them was not a protective talisman, but a peace talisman.
A concise and smooth spiritual script occupied half of the paper, while the other half bore a single line of small characters:
"Beyond your body, three feet of snow—who in the world could match your white robe?"
Fu Qingyang stared at the peace talisman,怔 for a long time.
...
In the conference room, Fu Qingyang's 3D projection reappeared on the conference screen.
At this moment, the elders gathered around the conference table were painstakingly piecing together strategies to combat the Master of Pure Yang, trying to convey them to the lower-level Night-Wanderers. Yet, they found themselves helpless, realizing that while there were numerous tools specifically designed for the spirits of resentment—both domestically and internationally—and a good supply of consumables with similar functions, it would be nearly impossible to equip every single Night-Wanderer in the Taimei Sect with one. The very reason they were discussing this issue stemmed from an elder's suggestion that rather than searching endlessly, hoping for a lucky break, a more practical approach might be to simply wait and see. Upon seeing Fu Qingyang return, the elders paid no special attention and continued their debate. "It's undeniable that this is indeed the optimal moment to unseat the Master of Pure Yang—strike while he's vulnerable. But the cost is simply too high. And currently, even if we're willing to bear that cost, we may still fall short." "I disagree with your view. The combination of Day-Wanderers and Illusionists, unbound by moral constraints, once they mature, will pose a serious challenge even to us." "Let's not go off on a tangent—perhaps the
"The primary strength of stargazing is discerning broad trends and identifying key individuals—on this point, I have little confidence. I'm more eager to see how the divination arts perform. Then again, perhaps the Taimei Sect can temporarily recall its dispatched night-wanderers."
"Impossible! The night-wanderers have played a crucial role in handling the incidents involving the spiritual realm travelers. We cannot compromise simply because of this."
At this, Fu Qingyang tapped the table with his fingers, producing a steady, rhythmic tapping that interrupted the elders' debate.
Even the Grand Elder Di Hong, among the other masters, turned to look at him in unison.
Fu Qingyang said, "I possess ten master-level scroll charms, primarily designed for purification. While their offensive capabilities are modest, they effectively neutralize all malice and negative spirits."
Purification charms? Elder Zhao was slightly taken aback.
The other elders were both delighted and somewhat disappointed. The red-haired young master shook his head, "Ten scrolls won't resolve major issues—though, having one more night-wanderer equipped with enhanced defenses does provide an added layer of security."
Fu Qingyang glanced at him and slowly said, "I can produce them in bulk—over fifty at a time." As a respected elder, Zhao couldn't help but furrow his brows. "I've never heard of such a kind of scroll before." Just as he finished speaking, Fu Qingyang produced a yellow paper scroll from his hand and unfurled it, presenting it to the group. Zhao studied it intently for several seconds, his face visibly astonished and stunned. As a Day-Wandering Deity, he had already confirmed the scroll's function solely by observing the brushwork and the overall Dao resonance. Fu Qingyang had not lied. "What a refined technique in the inscription of the spiritual scroll! The divine power of the Day Deity is seamlessly embedded, and the control is precise and restrained—truly ingenious. If only we could understand the 'dynamic force' applied while drawing the scroll, the person who developed this scroll would undoubtedly be a genius." Zhao gazed deeply into the Break-Sickness Scroll, utterly absorbed, as if a seasoned scholar. The other masters, seeing his reaction, instantly lost all doubt.
"Why didn't you bring it out earlier?"
"Then the Pure Yang Master will find it difficult to restore his strength—he'll have to at least slow his progress significantly."
The senior abbots smiled warmly.
Zhao, taking a deep breath, forced himself to shed his academic mindset and fixed his gaze firmly on Fu Qingyang:
"Where did you obtain these talismans? I've never seen them before. You're saying they can be mass-produced—meaning someone can actually manufacture them? The Pure Yang Sect is willing to pay any price to secure the method of production."
The last sentence was delivered with profound sincerity and gravity.
Fu Qingyang replied:
"These are the Pure Yang Sect's Break-Obstruction Talismans, passed down from the Lady of the Three Mountain Peaks to the Prime Origin Celestial Sovereign. The Pure Yang Sect fell early, and its master teachings have long since been lost. It's unlikely that the Spirit Realm still holds any lineage. It's perfectly normal that Abbot Zhao has never seen them."
The entire conference room fell abruptly silent.
Though the Prime Origin Celestial Sovereign was not present, he seemed to be actively supporting the meeting, appearing more frequently than any of the abbots.
Yet every time they appear, they always play a crucial role. Could it be the Prime Primordial Sovereign? Zhao elder smiled and said, "Please convey to the Prime Primordial Sovereign on behalf of Taiyuan Sect that they are willing to invest heavily in acquiring the method of producing talismans. As long as they master this method, Taiyuan Sect can produce large quantities of talismans in a short period of time. Moreover, I can guarantee for Taiyuan Sect that when the Five-Element Alliance purchases these talismans, they will receive them at one-third the price."
Since this comes from an official member, it's straightforward.
Upon hearing this, the elders of the Five-Element Alliance brightened—they clearly saw the value in the deal. The alliance would gain a substantial number of high-quality purification talismans at no additional cost.
Under everyone's watchful eyes, Fu Qingyang nodded.
"Done! Taiyuan Sect will provide one master-level item, and in return, I will transfer the method of producing the Break-Sin Talisman to them."
Zhao elder was momentarily stunned, thinking he was playing a trick on him. "Fu elder, please don't jest."
"Fu Qingyang explained earnestly: "The Pure Yang Sect's supreme masterwork cannot be sold without permission. To purchase it, one must offer master-level items in exchange. Elder Zhao, please consider this. As for the quantity of the Shattering-Obstruction Seals, there's no need to worry—within three days, Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun will produce fifty seals. All of you need not be concerned about shortages." After speaking, he turned to the Grand Elder, Di Hong, and said: "Grand Elder, these Shattering-Obstruction Seals are exceptionally precious. I have already committed to Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun, purchasing each seal for twenty million. The headquarters can now begin preparing the necessary funds." "???" A series of question marks flashed through the minds of the present elders. "Each seal for twenty million?" The red-haired young man could hardly believe it, staring at him. "You're the son of a capitalist—do you intend to drain the headquarters of its entire assets?" Di Hong waved his hand. "The headquarters is willing to spend one million for the purchase—this is their maximum offer." Fu Qingyang frowned. "Yuan Shǐ Tian Zun is an official member of the headquarters. Fu
"The Dog Elder spoke solemnly, then shifted tone to say, 'I believe two million is the maximum—we can't go beyond that. If you don't agree, I'll personally go to the Prime Immortal.'
'One million!'
'Three hundred thousand!'
'Five hundred thousand per sheet, payable in actual cash at three hundred thousand, with the remaining two hundred thousand convertible into material credit quotas—fifty Broken-Devouring Symbols equate to one hundred million in material credits.' Fu Qingyang proposed.
The Prime Immortal is a night-wanderer who frequently lacks materials; converting funds into material credits perfectly meets his needs and aligns with the official's established, recognized approach.
An organization seeking to cultivate 'faith' must downplay the role of money—thus, it's common to see individuals who achieve extraordinary feats rewarded only with medals. Yet, downplaying money doesn't mean there's no benefit—it simply takes a different form. For instance, the material credits Fu Qingyang is currently helping the Prime Immortal secure.
The Dog Elder turned to Di Hong and said, 'Grand Elder, I believe this can work!'
The two had been haggling for half an hour, and the Dog Elder had managed to cut the cost from 20 million to 5 million. The spirit of negotiation among the other elders had faded, and any further resistance would now seem disrespectful to the newly appointed young elders. For a moment, no one spoke.
Di Hong glanced at Teddy, then at Fu Qingyang, and slowly said, "Agreed!"
As one of the key decision-makers at headquarters, he had the authority to make the final call. Fu Qingyang then turned to Elder Zhao and said, "I will do my best to secure the manufacturing method for the Break-Sickness Seal for Taimei Sect."
Zhao's expression brightened, and he nodded slowly.
...
Zhang Yuanqing immediately bowed deeply:
"Thank you, Elder Fu. Your wisdom and strength are truly matchless. With your leadership, the Alliance will surely clear away all the obstacles and reach the pinnacle of the Spiritual Realm."
Now they're well off!
No longer worried about material shortages or insufficient funding.
Fu Qingyang nodded slightly. "I've already made a promise to the Senior Monk. If you can't produce fifty Break-Sickness Seals within three days, I'll sell you the method of production to the Taimei Sect." "I'll do my best," said Zhang Yuanqing, beaming with pride after having made a fortune. "Go and meditate now," Fu Qingyang issued his parting words. Zhang Yuanqing nodded and gradually dissolved into a shimmering stream of starlight, while faintly, Fu Qingyang's voice echoed in his ears: "Your Peace Seal is quite good." ... Jinshan City, Wuhen Hotel! In a uniform of a delivery courier, Kou Beiyue stood beside the marble reception counter, facing away from the hotel entrance. He sighed softly, his voice low and resonant: "You did come after all." "I did come after all!" The fat man at the entrance replied in a similarly low tone. "You shouldn't have come." "I have already come," he said firmly. Kou Beiyue slowly turned around, gazing steadily at the young fat man at the door, with the demeanor of someone who had parted ways with a friend for half a lifetime, and said: "
"Before the plump young man could reply, the petite woman behind the front desk coldly remarked, 'It's just been two weeks since we last saw each other.' Kou Beiyue instantly lost her composure, beaming and stepping forward, 'It seems Master Yuan Shi's divide-and-conquer strategy has worked well—indeed, you must be finding it hard to stay within the evil organization.' She informed the petite woman of the young man's request to meet, and while the woman agreed, she insisted on holding the meeting at the Wuhen Hotel. 'Damn it—this sneaky fellow!' the plump young man grumbled, first glancing carefully at the petite woman before explaining, 'Lately, I've been living in constant fear, always sensing that everyone wants to eliminate me. Though the senior sages and elders within the organization have been protecting me, I still feel uneasy. That's why I've been longing for my elder leader—ever since I see him, I find peace and reassurance.' Kou Beiyue was suddenly filled with a sense of warmth and confidence. Suddenly, the petite woman at the front desk added, 'Without your elder leader, you have no sense of security—this is your deep-seated attachment
The plump young man remained silent, as though unwilling to broach the subject.
"Neither do I care about your past," said Xiao Yuan coldly, "Are you here for Kou Beiyue, or for Yuan Shishen?"
The plump young man countered, "What's the difference?"
Xiao Yuan smiled with a cold, elegant grace, "If it's for Kou Beiyue, then so be it. But if it's for Yuan Shishen, you may be ready to return to the Ling Realm."
The plump young man paused for several seconds, ultimately finding no strength to challenge this bright and commanding woman. He said quietly, "I'm here to find the head of the team. It has nothing to do with Yuan Shishen."
Xiao Yuan remained silent. "If you wish to follow Beiyue, you must undergo a trial."
"I'm willing to try, but I'd like to know what the trial entails."
"Shortly, I'll take you up to the upper floors. Until then, there's one thing I'd like to ask you." Xiao Yuan fixed her gaze on the sturdy, round young man, speaking slowly and deliberately, "Are you willing to reconcile with
The plump young man stood still, pausing for a long time before speaking softly, "I... I don't know..."
Xiao Yuan nodded, stepping steadily with her flat lady's leather shoes, making a crisp, rhythmic sound on the bright floor tiles, moving deeper into the hotel.
Kou Beiyue excitedly pushed the young man, gesturing for him to follow.
Following the trust he had in the senior, the young man moved without hesitation, in step with Xiao Yuan’s figure, into the elevator and arrived at the door of Room 404.
"Go in!"
As the young man was taking in the surroundings, trying to guess the other’s intentions, a mature, beautiful woman with a cool demeanor silently indicated the door with her eyes.
He walked to the door, turned the handle with a crisp click, and then vanished into the hotel corridor.
Xiao Yuan waited quietly outside. After fifteen minutes, the door of Room 404 opened, and the young man’s silhouette appeared in the corridor.
He looked dazed, his eyes hollow, and spoke softly: "I'd like a quiet room. I... I need to calm down and think about some things..." At the same time, a faint, low voice from the Master of Unseen Presence echoed in the background: "Take him for cultivation!" "Yes!" Xiao Yuan knew then that the team had gained a new member. ... Dusk! Fu Family Village, a compact villa. In the bedroom, Zhang Yuan glanced at the scattered drafts on the floor and gently massaged his aching temples. "Ah, drawing talismans is truly exhausting—after all this effort, I just want to give up and let it all go." Drawing talismans was one of the fundamental skills of the Night-Wanderer, already daunting enough to make many lose heart and abandon their journey here. "We can't just keep drawing breaking talismans—let's add some other activities to make it more engaging."
Zhang Yuanqing gathered the Fuchu杵 and the prepared "ink," took a red thread ten centimeters long, a liquid made from ten milliliters of cinnabar and water, three pieces of meixiang, and powdered life-tears from the Siming, along with the powder from the Huanhuan pearl. He crushed all these materials into the mortar at once, then poured in ten milliliters of clear water. The ink used for drawing the Peach Blossom Scroll was thus prepared. On the desk, he spread out a blank yellow paper scroll and opened the page in the "Taiyin Refinement of the Spirit" that described the Peach Blossom Scroll, beginning to sketch the spiritual inscription according to the text. Each stroke—its beginning, continuation, transition, and flow—carried a distinct infusion of Taiyin energy, resulting in a complex, slightly crooked spiritual symbol with over a hundred variations in the flow of spiritual power. Yet, despite its complexity, Zhang Yuanqing managed to complete the scroll in just half an hour, discarding ten attempts before successfully drawing one. "I never thought I had such talent!" he was stunned. "Well, let's see how it works!" He infused spiritual energy into the