Immortality Begins With The Alchemical Master Chapter 320: The Battle for the Golden Core Dao Seed, Playing Hard to Get - Novel Cool

Chapter 320: The Battle for the Golden Core Dao Seed, Playing Hard to Get

Chapter 320: The Battle for the Golden Core Dao Seed, Playing Hard to Get

A significant amount of time had passed since Tao Yisheng completed his mission as a guardian in Yuan Zhao Country and arrived at Tianlan Immortal City.

Unexpectedly, he didn't rush back to Qingdan Valley.

Instead, he chose to reside on Celestial Wave Peak for an extended period.

This move piqued Luo Chen's curiosity even more about the secret he was keeping.

In their daily interactions, Tao Yisheng avoided any topics related to Qingdan Valley's high-quality pills.

On the contrary, he showed great enthusiasm for pill refinement! Luo Chen played along, and every few days, they would meet to discuss pill refinement.

Luo Chen discovered something.

Tao Yisheng's pill refinement skills were not as impressive as he had imagined.

His reputation as a second-tier pill master was completely undeserved.

The reason Luo Chen had been impressed by him before was merely because Tao Yisheng had a vast knowledge of pill refinement theories.

As a major sect in pill refinement, Qingdan Valley had nurtured Tao Yisheng since his youth, and it was only natural for him to be well-versed in advanced theories.

Now, as Luo Chen discussed with him, some of these theories were gradually being put into practice.

After all, Luo Chen was the complete opposite of Tao Yisheng.

While he might not be able to articulate advanced theories, his practical skills were exceptional.

Jokingly, the early Celestial Assembly had relied on Luo Chen's relentless pill refinement, gradually building its reputation to what it is today.

With his terrifying pill refinement experience, even among the pill masters of the sect, he would undoubtedly be among the top few.

Tao Yisheng was not the type to keep his cool.

The only reason he was keeping quiet was that his sister had specifically instructed him to do so.

Under these circumstances, Luo Chen became even more curious about what secret Tao Yisheng was keeping.

Since Tao Yisheng wasn't talking, Luo Chen had to find another way.

...

One year later.

In Ethereal Cave No. 17.

"After gathering information from the Intelligence Department of the Celestial Assembly, we have a rough understanding of Qingdan Valley's situation."

"Within Qingdan Valley, like traditional sects, Foundation Establishment Cultivators are divided into inner sect disciples, direct disciples, and Dao Seeds!"

"After Qi Condensation Cultivators advance to Foundation Establishment, they are automatically categorized as inner sect disciples."

"However, only the most outstanding among them, those with the potential to form a Golden Core, will be listed as direct disciples."

Sima Huiniang spoke to Luo Chen with ease.

As she spoke, the personnel structure of Qingdan Valley became increasingly clear in Luo Chen's mind.

Most inner sect disciples, once they fall behind, will be abandoned by Qingdan Valley.

At this time, they will be assigned various duties.

They may serve the direct disciples, manage the outer sect, or be sent to the outside world, like Miao Wen from the Jade Cauldron Sword Sect, to handle various trivial tasks for the sect.

But direct disciples are different.

Unless there are important matters, they can focus solely on cultivation.

Sima Huiniang paused.

"We can easily understand these two identities, but the sect's Dao Seed is completely different!"

Luo Chen's interest piqued, and he asked carefully, "What's the difference?"

Sima Huiniang replied earnestly, "The Dao Seed of a major sect is cultivated as a potential Golden Core Cultivator."

"Only one is chosen per generation!"

"Once the identity is confirmed, all the sect's resources will be directed towards them."

Luo Chen raised his eyebrows, "Cultivation resources?"

"It's not just that!" Sima Huiniang sighed, "There are other resources as well."

"For example, human resources. Once someone becomes a Dao Seed, most of the sect's Qi Condensation and Foundation Establishment Cultivators will gather under them, serving their every need. Before long, the Dao Seed will attain the status of the first person below the Golden Core Cultivators within the sect."

"Additionally, Golden Core Elders will constantly guide and mentor them on how to form a Golden Core."

"Moreover, they will also be provided with a Third Rank Ethereal Cave!"

"I've even heard that they will have a Soul-bound Artifact prepared for them before they form their Golden Core, ready for nurturing once they succeed."

Listening to all this.

Even Luo Chen, with his vast knowledge, couldn't help but swallow his saliva.

The Golden Core Dao Seed of a major sect enjoyed so many privileges.

Without lifting a finger, countless cultivators would serve them, and they would have access to an abundance of sect resources, a Third Rank Spirit Land, and even a Soul-bound Artifact prepared in advance.

What kind of heavenly treatment was this!

Luo Chen, who had worked so hard, managing and fighting, sometimes maneuvering and sometimes borrowing strength, couldn't even compare to a fraction of their advantages.

Luo Chen hurriedly shook his head and took a deep breath before asking,

"So, you're saying that Tao Wan is vying for the position of the Dao Seed?"

Sima Huiniang smoothed the blue silk beside her lips, and her rosy lips parted slightly, "Initially, I wasn't sure."

"According to previous intelligence, the Dao Seed of Qingdan Valley for this century had already been determined to be the renowned Pill and Sword Sage, Dan Yangzi."

"But for some unknown reason, his position as the Dao Seed was revoked a few years ago."

"As a result, the internal power dynamics of Qingdan Valley suddenly became chaotic."

"Rumor has it that Qingdan Valley is about to select a new Golden Core Dao Seed!"

Whoosh! Luo Chen's eyes widened.

He suddenly realized the reason behind Tao Yisheng and his sister's behavior.

The position of the Golden Core Dao Seed!

"I learned this news recently while casually chatting with Shi Boying from the Ice Castle."

"The credibility of this information is probably around seventy to eighty percent."

Luo Chen thought for a moment and then asked, "Is there a specific time frame for the selection of the new Golden Core Dao Seed?"

Sima Huiniang hesitated before replying,

"According to Shi Boying, Dan Yangzi's position as the Dao Seed was revoked about seven years ago."

"Qingdan Valley had announced that they would select a new Golden Core Dao Seed ten years later."

"Calculating the time, it should be in about three or four years."

Three or four years...

Luo Chen repeated this time frame.

Then he asked, "Do you know how Qingdan Valley selects the Golden Core Dao Seed?"

"This is common knowledge." Sima Huiniang smiled slightly.

"Hmm?"

"Because every time Qingdan Valley selects a Golden Core Dao Seed, they invite some friendly cultivators to witness the event. The purpose is obvious—to display their strength and build external connections for the Golden Core Dao Seed. With repeated selections, the method is no longer a secret."

Out of curiosity, Sima Huiniang revealed the specific selection process.

It was similar to the standard direct disciple sword duels in other major sects, but with an additional criterion.

That was pill refinement! "It's not really an additional criterion."

"Many sects have extra selection criteria.

In the Luoyun Sect, there's the renowned puppet racing, while the Flame Alliance focuses on crafting.

"Of course, considering some direct disciples who are solely focused on cultivation and not external matters, these sects loosen the requirements, allowing them to compete for Dao Seeds. Direct disciples can even ask for assistance."

As the conversation reached this point, Luo Chen finally understood what the Tao Wan siblings truly desired.

They were after his pill refinement skills!

But why didn't they just ask directly? Luo Chen furrowed his brows, deep in thought.

Sima Huiniang sat quietly beside him, wisely choosing not to interrupt.

Presenting the collected intelligence was already the best she could do.

For a deeper analysis of the situation, Luo Chen, being directly involved, would have to take charge.

After some time, Luo Chen seemed to have an epiphany.

A cultivator like Tao Wan, who had reached the ninth level of Foundation Establishment, would undoubtedly have an extensive network of connections.

She must know numerous exceptional pill refinement masters.

Especially since she was from Qingdang Valley, a major sect renowned for pill refinement.

With this in mind, finding one or two excellent pill refinement masters wouldn't be difficult.

Not to mention, her brother Tao Yisheng had gradually been putting his theoretical knowledge into practice over the past year, almost becoming a true second-tier pill refinement master.

It was clear that there were many excellent pill refinement masters around her.

This meant Luo Chen wasn't the only option.

"Tao Yisheng has been constantly seeking my advice on pill refinement, seemingly to improve himself, but also to assess my skills."

"Perhaps they only wanted to confirm the strength of my pill refinement techniques."

"That's why his sister is willing to cooperate and negotiate with me."

After realizing this, all his previous doubts suddenly became clear.

"It seems I was a bit too conservative in my previous actions."

Luo Chen pursed his lips, recalling the year of pill refinement exchanges.

He wouldn't be so generous as to share everything, which was only natural.

But if he wanted the other party to value him, he would have to show more.

"From now on, I'll need to demonstrate my pill refinement skills more."

Gradually, Luo Chen formulated a clear plan for his next steps.

Seeing the furrowed brows on Luo Chen's face gradually relax, Sima Huiniang, skilled in observing others, knew that her president had found a solution.

This was an instinctive trust.

In her eyes, there was no problem that could stump the president.

No matter how difficult!

Luo Chen exhaled and turned to Sima Huiniang.

"How have things been going in the sect recently?"

Sima Huiniang smiled slightly.

"As you expected, after the Foundation Establishment celebration, our various businesses haven't faced any obstacles."

"The new ventures are also gradually getting on track."

"As long as we continue developing like this, it'll be like a snowball, growing bigger and bigger."

"Even if you, President, don't personally refine pills, the Luotian Sect can still earn a fortune."

Hearing this, Luo Chen couldn't help but smile brightly.

It seemed his previous meticulous planning hadn't been in vain.

The development of a sect shouldn't rely solely on one person.

The previous model was unhealthy.

The current growth was more sustainable.

"The only pity is that Pavilion Master Bian Zhen failed in his Foundation Establishment."

Sima Huiniang sighed, "Wasting a Foundation Establishment Pill is such a shame."

Luo Chen had also heard about Bian Zhen's failed Foundation Establishment attempt.

He shook his head, "Foundation Establishment failures are common in cultivation. As long as the person survives, it's already a fortunate outcome."

Within the Luotian Sect, various insights and experiences related to breaking through Foundation Establishment had been accumulated.

Even in the event of failure, as long as one didn't stubbornly insist on their methods, with the preservation of the corresponding spirit herbs, keeping one's life was achievable.

As for the wasted Foundation Establishment Pill...

Luo Chen didn't feel much about it.

Cultivators like them, who had successfully established their foundation, didn't pay much attention to Foundation Establishment Pills. Moreover, Luo Chen himself could refine Imperial Stream Plasma with similar effects.

Sima Huiniang's perspective was different.

She viewed these matters from the position of a sect leader.

Whether it was Foundation Establishment Pills or people, in her eyes, they were all resources of the Luotian Sect.

The failure of Foundation Establishment meant not only the loss of a Foundation Establishment Pill but also a Foundation Establishment cultivator, which was what made her feel regretful.

"Next, who will you arrange for Foundation Establishment?" Luo Chen asked.

Sima Huiniang replied without hesitation, "I plan to choose between Pavilion Master Qin Liangchen of Radiant Light Pavilion and Pavilion Master Shi Mawei of Battle and Combat Pavilion. President, who do you think should attempt Foundation Establishment first?"

Luo Chen pondered for a moment before saying, "Both of them are already over sixty years old, so a little earlier or later doesn't matter."

"Right now, the Luotian Sect is in urgent need of personnel, especially in the Outer Sect, which is the Radiant Light Pavilion."

"On the other hand, the Battle and Combat Pavilion won't have any major battles for the time being."

"Let your brother go into seclusion to attempt his breakthrough first!"

Sima Huiniang's eyes lit up.

"Alright, I'll follow your instructions, President."

Seeing her reaction, Luo Chen couldn't help but smile and shake his head.

"Arrange the necessary resources as you see fit. Over these years, your brother has helped me a lot, so don't neglect him."

"I understand. Not just him, but also Pavilion Master Qin and Pavilion Master Murong, I'll make sure to arrange everything properly."

Sima Huiniang spoke softly.

Her soft body had unknowingly settled onto Luo Chen's lap.

...

"No, no, your washing technique is wrong!"

"As the most suitable technique for processing water-attributed medicinal ingredients, its essence lies in extracting the yin and gentle energy within the herbs."

"How to extract it? It definitely can't be done forcefully, but with gentleness."

"Step aside, and let me show you how it's done!"

In the Ethereal Cave No. 5.

Tao Yisheng reluctantly made way.

Then he watched as Luo Chen stood beside the pill furnace, igniting the fire, breaking down the herbs, and extracting their medicinal properties...

In less than half an incense stick's time, a portion of processed medicinal liquid appeared in front of Tao Yisheng.

Tao Yisheng, who had been feeling a bit resentful before, couldn't help but exclaim upon seeing the liquid emitting a rich water-attributed yin and gentle energy, "As expected of a pill refinement master worthy of the name Dan Chenzi!"

"A master's skill is evident from the first move."

"Even in Qingdang Valley, known for its pill refinement talents, I've never seen anyone handle Blue Stasis Flowers as effortlessly as you!"

"Even some of the third-tier pill refinement masters in our sect might not be able to achieve this level!"

He showered Luo Chen with praise as if it were free.

Luo Chen's face lit up with a smile as he listened.

He modestly waved his hand, "I wouldn't call myself a master; I just have a few insights. The most important thing is, how much did you learn just now?"

Tao Yisheng carefully recalled the experience.

"Indeed, my previous technique was incorrect. After observing your demonstration, I realized I made at least three mistakes in controlling spirit energy."

"No!" Luo Chen shook his finger, "You made seven mistakes!"

Tao Yisheng's eyes widened in surprise.

He had already tried his best.

Could there really be seven mistakes?

Just as he was about to doubt, Luo Chen pointed out each of the seven errors.

Then, he encouraged, "If you don't believe me, go ahead and refine the Life-Reviving Water again and see the results for yourself!"

Yes.

Tao Yisheng was now refining the Medicine King Sect's specialty, a first-grade spirit medicine—the Life-Reviving Water! No one knew where he had obtained the pill formula.

After a brief rest, Tao Yisheng resumed the refinement process.

Luo Chen stepped back and watched him refine the pill intently.

If there were outsiders present, they would be utterly astonished.

Typically, when refining pills, alchemists would ensure privacy and work alone.

Especially with strangers.

Although Luo Chen and Tao Yisheng weren't strangers, they weren't master and disciple or fellow sect members.

However, Tao Yisheng didn't hesitate to allow Luo Chen to observe his pill refinement.

In return, Luo Chen would offer guidance whenever Tao Yisheng made mistakes.

Occasionally, he would even demonstrate the techniques himself.

This peculiar scene was a natural part of their conversations, indicating that it wasn't the first time.

When did it start? About three months ago! After a theoretical discussion on pill refinement, Luo Chen suggested they try refining a pill in practice.

Since then, this scene had become a regular occurrence.

Through this unique arrangement of one refining and the other guiding, Luo Chen had showcased his exceptional pill refinement skills without reservation.

Almost every time, Tao Yisheng was amazed by Luo Chen's proficient pill techniques and subsequently convinced of his mastery.

Some theories that were merely dead words in books and scriptures came to life with remarkable results when combined with practice.

"I suppose there's no one among second-rank alchemists who has achieved such a level as me!"

Watching Tao Yisheng refine the pill with focus, Luo Chen thought to himself with confidence.

After about an hour, Tao Yisheng obtained a batch of Life-Reviving Water.

Its quality was superior grade!

In that instant, he was overjoyed, grabbing Luo Chen's sleeve, laughing, and jumping around, completely lacking the demeanor of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.

However, Luo Chen didn't show any signs of annoyance at this childish display.

People, when faced with their favorite hobbies, are bound to act differently.

"Luo Chen, thank you, truly thank you!"

After his excitement subsided, Tao Yisheng expressed his gratitude sincerely.

"Although I'm called a second-rank alchemist, in reality, I merely used a family secret technique to fortuitously improve the grade of a pill and barely passed the second-rank alchemist examination."

"Now, I can refine a first-grade superior-grade pill. I'm not far from refining a second-grade pill."

"All of this is thanks to your guidance!"

Luo Chen smiled and said, "That's also because of your exceptional talent."

"No, no, no!" Tao Yisheng shook his head vigorously like a rattle drum.

"I can distinguish right from wrong, and this is all thanks to you."

"I'll give you this superior-grade Life-Reviving Water as a gift!"

Luo Chen accepted it without hesitation.

For Tao Yisheng, this spirit medicine wasn't a big deal.

He could take it back to the Celestial Assembly and use it to aid the cultivators in their Foundation Establishment.

In fact, he had already stockpiled quite a few middle-grade Life-Reviving Waters in recent days.

"I'm a bit tired from refining pills today, so I'll take my leave now."

Luo Chen waved goodbye and left the cave mansion.

As he watched Luo Chen leave, Tao Yisheng subconsciously called out.

"Brother Luo Chen!"

Luo Chen turned around, puzzled, "Is there something else?"

Tao Yisheng opened his mouth but eventually said, "It's not a big deal, but I plan to enter seclusion for a while. Let's discuss pill refinement again in two months!"

Luo Chen shrugged, "That's fine, it depends on your schedule."

After saying this, he left the Ethereal Cave No. 5 with a carefree attitude.

Inside, Tao Yisheng's face revealed a conflicted and complicated expression.

...

After leaving the cave mansion, Luo Chen slowly flew homeward.

His face was filled with a smile.

"In the past few months, I haven't mentioned anything related to premium-grade pills, just showcasing my pill refinement skills."

"As expected, the results are completely different from before!"

When seeking help from others, one shouldn't be too obvious.

On the contrary, his current approach had achieved excellent results.

Tao Yisheng couldn't hold back any longer!

And his inability to restrain himself meant that Tao Wan, who was behind him, would likely be brought into the picture.

This was the perfect strategy of feigning disinterest to lure out the prey!

"I'd like to see how long you can hold out!"

Luo Chen chuckled as he returned to Ethereal Cave No. 17.

In the quiet room, he sensed the spiritual energy and couldn't help but frown.

He noticed that the spiritual energy concentration in Tao Yisheng's Ethereal Cave No. 5 seemed slightly higher than his own.

Both were superior-grade cave mansions, but could it be that the ones closer to the front had better spiritual energy?

"Unfortunately, the first seven cave mansions on Celestial Wave Peak belong to the Seven Jade Cauldron Sects, so I have no chance."

Luo Chen sighed and focused his mind.

Since Tao Yisheng was entering seclusion, he also needed some time to do the same.

For over a year now, he had been taking a Blood Wrath Pill every half month to clear his meridians.

Combining this with the Eternal Youth Scripture's spiritual energy circulation method, he was now close to opening the last hidden meridian.

"Hundred Meridians Unblocked, Qi Flows as Desired."

"Every Move and Action, Naturally Perfect, Forging an Unparalleled Foundation!"

"I hope it doesn't disappoint me!"

Luo Chen took a deep breath and swallowed a superior-grade Blood Wrath Pill.

A thick red light radiated from his body, gradually enveloping him entirely.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end

Report