https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1053-Final-Arrangements-Before-Departure/13150465/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1055-Meeting-with-Subtle-Insights/13150470/
Chapter 1054: The Art of Diplomacy and Martial Arts
Chapter 1054: The Art of Diplomacy and Martial Arts
Chen Chuan approached the figure, "Teacher Xue?"
Teacher Xue smiled and said, "Student Chen." He took another look at Chen Chuan, and his voice carried a hint of sentiment, "The State of Changsheng, it's truly remarkable how quickly you've progressed."
Chen Chuan studied the person before him. In the past, he had always found it difficult to gauge this teacher's true strength.
But now, as he observed more carefully with his spiritual insight, he could sense that although the teacher appeared the same as before, his aura seemed less than full. It was a subtle feeling, as if a cup of water was not completely filled to the brim.
If his deduction was correct, then the person who had appeared before him in the past was likely only a fraction of the teacher's true power. He couldn't be sure how much strength this was, but it seemed like it wasn't the majority. The teacher's actual power must have reached a certain level.
After that, they will return with you, and the responsibility for their safety will be handed over to Jibei and Haidong regions."
Chen Chuan nodded and said, "Leave it to me, Teacher Xue."
Teacher Xue smiled and said, "Then I can finally relax a little." He gestured towards the benches on the side of the square, "Let's sit over there."
Chen Chuan agreed, and they walked over to the edge of the square. The sun shone brightly, and it was still morning, with a warm glow.
The square was surrounded by blooming flowers, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. The location offered a high vantage point, providing a panoramic view of the boundless sea beyond and the seabirds soaring overhead, their cries filling the air.
Chen Chuan walked to the side and bought two hot drinks from a nearby food cart. He returned and handed one to Teacher Xue, then sat down on the bench.
I heard that the higher-ups have put in a lot of effort to coordinate various parties and finally reached many preliminary agreements with the delegation. However, many of these agreements cater to the interests of the East Bank Party, which the West Bank Party is not satisfied with.
It's said that we've also put in a lot of thought into these conditions. Even if they can't be fully implemented, we must ensure that at least some of them are met. Among the federal negotiators, there are key figures who are crucial to pushing these matters forward, so we must ensure their safe return.
You've seen the route back; it will definitely pass through Haidong region and the territories of the West Bank Party. This is the agreed-upon itinerary, so the subsequent security arrangements may be more demanding. I believe someone will be in touch to handle the handover."
Chen Chuan replied, "I understand."
Teacher Xue said, "If you're clear on that, then it's your turn to worry. I won't mention it again. Now, let's talk about you." He turned his head slightly, "Student Chen, if I'm not mistaken, you're preparing for the State of Dongxuan's cultivation, right?"
Chen Chuan confirmed, "Yes."
Teacher Xue gazed at the surging sea, with specks of golden light shimmering on the surface, and sighed, "This step is relatively challenging. After the New Era Reform, the Three Aspects Path has diverged significantly here.
However, in the Old National Religion, many cultivations don't have such clear boundaries. I have something here that might aid your cultivation..." He took out an object and handed it over, "Here."
Chen Chuan took it and found it to be a jade turtle shell, engraved with ceremonial symbols on the back, with a jade tablet inside. As he held it, he felt a subtle resonance with his spirit.
"This is..."
"This is the 'Weichang Manual,' or rather, the uncompleted portion of it."
Teacher Xue sat up a little straighter, leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees, and said, "During the Great Alliance period, martial artists from various nations attempted to collaborate on a comprehensive manual for martial arts, and this is that 'Manual.' However, the project only got started before it came to a halt.
Although the manual was never completed, the exchange of ideas among the martial artists did yield some results. This portion, though not compiled into a book, was recorded and preserved by some of the participating martial artists at the time."
He pointed to the object in Chen Chuan's hand, "Some of it is in there. I've already looked through it, and it's of no use to me now. Take it back and have a look."
Chen Chuan sincerely thanked him, "Thank you, Teacher Xue."
Teacher Xue waved his hand dismissively, "It's nothing. After Changsheng, the cultivation method is secondary. The most important thing is the resources for cultivation." He smiled, "I believe that's what you're pondering now."
Chen Chuan agreed, "Yes, that's right.
Chen Chuan's eyes flickered with curiosity. "The Federation?"
Xue Teacher lifted his chin slightly, "Are you familiar with the Holy Valley and Sanctuary of the Primordial People?"
"I am," Chen Chuan nodded.
He had read the book by that Wilderness School's Fist Master, which mentioned the Holy Valley and Sanctuary more than once, so he had some understanding of it.
"The Holy Valley and Sanctuary of the Primordial People preserve many precious legacies from the past, a treasure trove of their heritage," Xue Teacher explained.
"In their tradition, only those recognized by the religion and deemed extremely devout are allowed to enter these sacred places and retrieve the gifts bestowed by the divine. However, such individuals are exceedingly rare, leading to a vast amount of resources being buried there."
"Moreover, this custom has a drawback. While the upper echelon of the Primordial People is comprised of elites, their numbers are scarce, and a gap in their ranks is easily formed."
"Additionally, internal conflicts among them are often fierce, with rival factions constantly at odds. This weakness allowed the people of the Western Continent to invade, and it could be said that they tore themselves apart, providing an opportunity for outsiders to take advantage."
Chen Chuan nodded. After reading the Fist Master's account, he had already planned to do so. The Master had inadvertently left some clues in his book, which Chen Chuan believed were intended for future generations.
"By the way, there's another place you might want to visit."
"You've probably heard of the Tianji Sect, haven't you?" Xue Teacher asked.
Chen Chuan nodded. "I have."
The Tianji Sect was a branch of the Xuan Religion. Since the Xuan and Chan Religions began proselytizing in the old era, this branch had developed in Yong Land. Due to the decline of the Xuan Religion in its homeland, this sect might be the largest Xuan Religion sect globally, considering its scale.
This sect had infiltrated every aspect of the Federation, and its influence and power were so profound that it could rival the top multinational corporations worldwide. If only considering the Eastern Continent's sects, only the Small Awakening Temple of the Chan Religion could be compared to it.
"The Tianji Sect possesses a substantial amount of resources. They hold a grand assembly every year to support those they deem worthy. Regardless of the identity or background of the attendees, if you think it's worth a try, you might as well go and test your fate there."
"I'll keep that in mind," Chen Chuan replied.
Xue Teacher leaned back, resting one hand on the back of his chair. "Well, if you truly can't find the resources you need, there's another option—the Sworn Contract."
He tapped the chair back. "If a Martial Artist possesses sufficient spiritual power and doesn't use the Sworn Contract when breaking through the Fourth Limit, they can have another chance to enhance their cultivation."
"If you can't find the necessary cultivation resources, you can sacrifice and vow to forsake that aspect of your needs."
Leaning back and gazing at the sky, he continued, "During the End Dynasty Period, many rebels rose up, and while they had talent, most high-end resources remained in the hands of the upper echelon. Advancing was incredibly challenging. In theory, a Martial Artist's lifespan is limitless, but in reality, they undergo constant alterations. Some choose to exchange their future lifespan for resources, compensating for the scarcity and gaining greater combat power."
"During the End Dynasty Period, Martial Artists who made this choice were not few. They did so because they knew that without it, they might die on the battlefield or in sudden, unexpected battles. This strategy proved useful, but there's no doubt that these individuals burned themselves out."
His tone turned slightly serious. "Regardless of your final choice, you must first be clear about what you want. Once you've made up your mind, act decisively and without hesitation."
Chen Chuan nodded in agreement.
Xue Teacher stretched leisurely, "Well, that's all I have to say. My task here is done, and I must go and embrace the wonders of life." He stood up.
Chen Chuan followed suit and asked, "Is Xue Teacher returning?"
Xue Teacher sighed with a hint of helplessness. "I'll stay a little longer. The Capital already knows about Zhao Zhenye's matter, and arrangements are being made. If all goes well, I'll likely be assigned to oversee this side of Jibei Province."
Chen Chuan's heart understood. No wonder Mr. Zhan hadn't mentioned the Purification School sending people over when he left a couple of days ago; it was likely that the higher-ups had already coordinated this. The Purification School already had numerous Martial Artists here, so they wouldn't be adding more.
"I'm off then."
Xue Teacher smiled at him, waved, and strolled out with a carefree air.
Chen Chuan watched his figure disappear at one end of the square, straightened his hat brim, and turned to leave.
...
..."
(End of Chapter)
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