https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-464-Debating-Dao-with-Hong-Ling-Sky-High-Conditions-Bridal-Chamber-Spirit-Pill-as-Dowry/12936122/
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Chapter 465: Luo Tian Alliance, Forging the Incarnation Pill
Chapter 465: Luo Tian Alliance, Forging the Incarnation Pill
Just as Luo Chen had said.
Those who sincerely wished to befriend him would naturally not mind his recent actions.
After all, everyone knew he had just emerged from his Core Formation Stage seclusion, and there was much to attend to.
As for those whose intentions were not as sincere, merely seeking familiarity, they had already left Heavenwave Immortal City on the same day.
It was better to head to the front lines than to linger in the city.
Currently, the war had officially begun and was raging fiercely.
Between these two options, there was another group with mixed intentions.
For instance, Jin Bubuqian, who had offered an astronomical reward at the Core Formation Ceremony.
"How has Luo Chen's recent situation been?"
"Reporting to Elder, according to our knowledge, he has been on Danxia Peak, receiving guests. We've also investigated the identities of the visitors; most are solitary Foundation Establishment Cultivators hoping to join the Luo Tian Sect. There are also a few Golden Core Cultivators intentionally befriending him. Take Wu Fu Qi, for example; he has visited Danxia Peak several times, and on his last visit, he left with a smile, indicating a pleasant conversation."
In a tavern in Heavenwave Immortal City, Jin Bubuqian quietly listened to his disciple's report.
As the report progressed, his brows gradually furrowed.
Luo Chen's actions were clearly aimed at strengthening the Luo Tian Sect, taking advantage of his Core Formation Stage breakthrough.
Those who wished to join the Luo Tian Sect were undoubtedly late-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators aspiring to reach the Core Formation Stage.
The addition of such a group of powerful Foundation Establishment Cultivators would undoubtedly solidify the Luo Tian Sect's core strength.
It would even provide significant security for the future.
Although no one had conducted a precise calculation, it was a known fact that only one in a hundred Qi Condensation Stage Cultivators would achieve the Foundation Establishment Stage.
Similarly, only one in a hundred Foundation Establishment Cultivators would reach the Golden Core Stage.
This statistic might not be entirely accurate, but there was indeed a pattern to it.
Take Green Pill Valley, for instance, with its tens of thousands of disciples and over a thousand Foundation Establishment Cultivators, being a prominent Alchemy sect, it had produced fifteen Golden Core Cultivators.
The Luo Tian Sect was no different.
With over five thousand disciples and twenty-five Foundation Establishment Cultivators, excluding the exceptional Luo Chen, if they strengthened their foundation and added several dozen more Foundation Establishment Cultivators, they might produce a second Golden Core Cultivator within a hundred years.
"It seems that Luo Chen has no intention of submitting to others and instead aims to stand on his own."
The disciple beside him overheard this muttering and cautiously added, "It should be so. Feng Yue Immortal from Feng Hua Palace visited Danxia Peak once but left with a calm expression. It's likely that Luo Chen declined her invitation to join Feng Hua Palace and become the Vice-Dean of the Cauldron Institute."
After the explanation, the disciple hesitantly asked, "But the Luo Tian Sect doesn't have a Tier 3 Spirit Vein, not even a Tier 2 one. How can he strengthen the sect?"
Jin Bubuqian glanced at him with a look that suggested he was an idiot.
The disciple froze, then suddenly realized, "The war!"
"It seems you're not as foolish as I thought," Jin Bubuqian chuckled.
From the previous intelligence, he had deduced much.
Although Luo Chen had refused the invitation from the superior sect, he was establishing friendly relations with individual Golden Core Cultivators.
Like Wu Fu Qi, he had probably formed an alliance with him, which was why Wu Fu Qi had left Danxia Peak with such a cheerful demeanor.
During this process, Luo Chen had also maintained amicable ties with the local Golden Core Great Sects.
As a result, the Luo Tian Sect's position was already solidified!
As long as they secured a Tier 3 Spirit Vein in the upcoming war, the Luo Tian Sect would have a genuine opportunity to rise.
Hundreds of years later, a new Golden Core Great Sect would undoubtedly emerge in the Eastern Wilderness Cultivation World.
The reason it was stated as "definitely" instead of "possibly" was because Luo Chen himself was an exceptional Alchemy Master. Cultivating two or three Golden Core Cultivators would not be a challenging task.
It was said that he had started training Alchemy Masters long ago!
This was a perfect utilization of resources, and his vision was indeed far-sighted.
"However, with this development, the conditions I offered now seem too abrupt and insufficient."
Jin Bubuqian began to regret his decision.
He had assumed that someone like Luo Chen, from a solitary cultivator background, would have short-sightedness and be lured by an unexpected opportunity.
But now it seemed that Luo Chen had the ability to create such opportunities himself.
With a Tier 3 Spirit Vein, Luo Chen could obtain it with his sword.
As for Alchemy, many would willingly offer Tier 3 Alchemy formulas to Luo Chen.
Regarding connections and relationships, compared to the unfamiliar Five Elements Divine Sect, any discerning individual would trust the network Luo Chen had established.
"I was negligent."
"No wonder Luo Chen remained unmoved, knowing I was waiting for him in Heavenwave Immortal City but not taking the initiative to visit."
Gradually, Jin Bubuqian understood the underlying reasons.
The disciple beside him couldn't help but ask, "Elder, Luo Chen is just a Golden Core Cultivator. Although he's said to be an Alchemy Master, whether he can refine Tier 3 Alchemy is still unknown. Is it necessary to place so much importance on him?"
Jin Bubuqian waved his hand dismissively.
"You don't understand. Leave."
The disciple, filled with doubts, exited the room.
Jin Bubuqian walked to the window, gazing in the direction of Danxia Peak, his face filled with hesitation.
After a long pause, he shook his head.
"Regardless, I've shown my friendly intentions, which will make it more convenient to approach him in the future.
"Moreover, this child has strayed from the path!"
"Although he has a Five Elements Primordial Root, whether he meets the requirements or not is still uncertain."
"For now, let's consider this a side move. When the Ancestor awakens, he will take charge of the situation."
...
In Danxia Peak.
Inside the Luo Tian Main Hall, Luo Chen was in deep conversation with Fu Jiusheng.
"I've already discussed with the Fifth Qi and Cen Dao friends. If you join us, our alliance will have five Golden Core Cultivators. Our strength will be no less than that of a regular Golden Core Great Sect, and we will surely achieve great success in the upcoming war!"
Seeing Fu Jiusheng's hesitation, Luo Chen patiently persuaded him, painting a promising picture of the future.
The five Golden Core Cultivators he mentioned were not an exaggeration.
On the Fifth Qi's side, there was another Golden Core Cultivator, Jiang Yu.
As for Cen Qiusheng, he was the elder of the Divine Rune Domain's Cen Clan.
With himself and Fu Jiusheng, they would form an alliance of five major Golden Core Cultivators!
This force, no matter where it was placed, was not weak.
Fu Jiusheng hesitated, "Now that Wind and Rain Manor has occupied the former site of Incense Valley in the Flame Alliance, do they still intend to compete for a Tier 3 Spirit Land?"
Luo Chen was already aware of the inside story.
He explained with a smile, "The former site of Incense Valley is actually a temporary residence provided by Jade Cauldron Sword Sect to Feng Hua Palace. Wind and Rain Manor just took the initiative to occupy it first. Now that the army has set off for the Howling Moon Mountain Range, Jade Cauldron Sword Sect naturally wants to reclaim Incense Valley, so Wind and Rain Manor has no choice but to find another Spirit Land."
"So that's the case!" Fu Jiusheng suddenly understood.
He calculated the strength of this alliance, which was centered around Luo Chen and the Luotian Sect, and included Wind and Rain Manor and the Divine Rune Domain's Cen Clan.
In total, it was an alliance of three major Golden Core forces.
With his own addition, relying on his familiarity with the Lawless Mountains, he could gain a certain advantage in the upcoming war.
After some thought, he finally made his decision.
"I'm willing to join the Luotian Alliance!"
"Now that I've reached the Core Formation Stage, the need for a Spirit Land has become indispensable. With this opportunity, I'll give it my all!"
Seeing this, Luo Chen couldn't help but smile.
In a short time, he had gathered a considerable force by relying on his status as an alchemist.
With the support of the Ice Fortress and Green Pill Valley, he was confident in securing a Tier 3 Spirit Vein in the Howling Moon Mountain Range!
Moreover, the main force in this war was the Luoyun Sect.
With his relationship with the Luoyun Sect, even if conflicts arose with other forces, it was likely that the other party would remain neutral at the very least.
This way, he no longer had any worries.
The conditions offered by the Five Elements Divine Sect were indeed attractive! But after careful consideration, he dared not accept them.
To gain something, one must first give! If he wanted to obtain the Tier 3 Spirit Vein offered by the Five Elements Divine Sect, he would have to pay a corresponding price.
At the very least, he would have to become a tool for the Divine Sect, refining pills for them.
At worst, he didn't know what else he would have to sacrifice.
Over the years, he had endured enough of being looked down upon.
If he were to move to the Five Elements Divine Sect, he and the Luotian Sect would truly be at their mercy.
"At this point, what I want can be obtained through my own sword, without the need for compromise!"
Luo Chen's "sword" was already formed! Whether it was his cultivation realm, strength, reputation, or his exceptional pill refining skills, they were all his sharpest weapons.
If possible, he wouldn't seek others; instead, he would wait for others to seek him!
After setting a time for the alliance with Fu Jiusheng, Luo Chen personally escorted him out of Danxia Peak.
The reason the alliance wasn't established immediately was because of Cen Qiusheng.
The relocation of the Cen Clan was no small matter.
Cen Qiusheng had gone ahead to understand the specific situation.
Now that the alliance intention was reached, he couldn't wait to return and bring his clan over.
Once the alliance was successful, the Cen Clan, Wind and Rain Manor, and the Luotian Sect would gather together to participate in the war!
Although Fu Jiusheng had left, there was still someone waiting for him inside Danxia Peak.
...
Luo Chen walked step by step towards the summit of Danxia Peak.
In the sea of clouds, a slender and graceful figure stood facing the wind, gazing into the vast sea of clouds.
"Sorry, I've kept you waiting."
"It's fine. You're different from me. After I achieved Core Formation, I had the help of my sect's elders to manage things, but you had to personally handle relationships with those Golden Core Cultivators."
Tao Wan turned around and looked at the triumphant Luo Chen with admiration in her eyes.
"To be honest, I didn't expect you to refuse Feng Hua Palace and the Five Elements Divine Sect."
Luo Chen smiled but didn't explain further.
Tao Wan didn't inquire about the details but asked, "Have you considered that matter?"
Hearing this serious question, Luo Chen's expression turned solemn.
"Although I've reached the Core Formation Stage, my current pill refinement is only at the Second Stage. It's already quite challenging to master Third Stage pills, let alone refining that Fourth Stage pill?"
"Moreover, it's the extremely difficult Incarnation Pill among the Fourth Stage pills!"
"Is your Supreme Elder looking too highly upon me?"
If there were other Golden Core Cultivators present, they would surely be shocked by their conversation.
The Incarnation Pill! It was common knowledge that the refinement of the Incarnation Pill was only mastered by the Divine Transformation Period sect, Misty Abyss.
For a small sect like Green Pill Valley to attempt refining the Incarnation Pill was simply a pipe dream.
However, they were indeed plotting to do so.
This further confirmed to Luo Chen that when the Jade Cauldron Sword Sect had defeated Yuanhuashan Mountain, it wasn't without reason, and Qingdangu Valley did indeed possess the Incarnation Pill formula.
Now, Qingdangu Valley was seeking him out.
This also explained why other sects had sent Elders to congratulate Luo Chen on his Core Formation, while Qingdangu Valley had dispatched Tao Wan, their newly appointed Sect Master.
It was a matter of utmost importance, and they couldn't entrust it to anyone else.
Tao Wan didn't seem surprised by Luo Chen's reluctance.
"I'm not a Tier 3 Alchemist, so I'm not privy to the intricacies of the situation. But since the Grand Elder believes in you, there must be a reason. I've heard it's related to the Primordial True Flame you possess."
"The Primordial True Flame?"
Luo Chen's eyebrows rose in surprise.
Tao Wan nodded, "For this Incarnation Pill refinement, our sect has been preparing for many years, and we already have five Tier 3 Alchemists. And all of them have mastered a Primordial True Flame!"
Luo Chen's heart stirred, and he asked, "Is Dan Yangzi among them?"
"Yes."
With this confirmation, Luo Chen could sense the determination of the Grand Elder of Qingdangu Valley to secure the Incarnation Pill.
The Jade Cauldron Domain was known for its abundance of exotic flames, and both Qingdangu Valley and the Flame Alliance, renowned for their pill refinement and artifact forging, possessed several Source-less Flames.
Luo Chen's Withering-Flourishing Flame originated from the Flame Alliance.
Although he had kept it a secret, it was impossible to hide from those who were paying close attention.
Especially during the battle that led to the Flame Alliance's downfall, Dan Yangzi had personally participated, so he must have known something about it.
Now, Qingdangu Valley had come to Luo Chen, and it seemed they were more interested in him as a Primordial True Flame wielder than as an alchemist.
However, if he were to get involved in this matter...
Would it cause any significant trouble later on? Sensing Luo Chen's hesitation, Tao Wan whispered, "I know what you're worried about, but there's no need. Right now, everyone's attention is on the war, and no one will notice us in Qingdangu Valley."
"Moreover, you're a revered member of the Tao family. It's only natural for you to visit Qingdangu Valley. On the surface, we'll use the pretext of discussing pill refinement techniques and invite you for a friendly exchange of pill cultivation methods."
Given their close relationship, Luo Chen should have agreed by now.
But Luo Chen still hadn't given his answer.
Tao Wan could sense his thoughts.
She decided to bring up the previous agreement, "The deal we made before, about stopping the supply of Superior Ascending Dragon Pills after your Core Formation, can be canceled. From now on, Qingdangu Valley will regularly provide a batch of Superior Ascending Dragon Pills to your Luo Tian Sect."
If this deal were to be sealed, the cultivation resources for Foundation Establishment Cultivators in the Luo Tian Sect would be guaranteed.
However, Luo Chen maintained his composure, "Our Luo Tian Sect also has one or two alchemists, so we're not that lacking in Tier 2 pills."
This wasn't a joke.
Over the years, Luo Chen had indeed deduced a Tier 2 cultivation pill formula from some incomplete pill formulas.
Its effects were stronger than the Colorful Chrysanthemum Pill but weaker than the Ascending Dragon Pill.
As long as it was refined, external sales might be challenging, but internal supply wouldn't be a significant issue.
Currently, Luo Chen had entrusted the refinement of this pill formula to Qi Yi.
As for Qu Lingjun, Luo Chen had taught him the refinement methods of the Tier 2 Passing Through Obscurity Pill and the Jade Dew Pill.
During Luo Chen's seclusion, Qu Lingjun, with his solid pill refinement skills, had gradually mastered the Jade Dew Pill, despite it being only of low-grade quality.
The Ice Fortress could still accept this.
With Luo Chen occasionally refining a batch of Superior Jade Dew Pills, the relationship between the Luo Tian Sect and the Ice Fortress could be maintained harmoniously.
Once Qu Lingjun's pill refinement skills improved and he could stably refine mid-grade Jade Dew Pills, Luo Chen could completely stop worrying about these trivial matters.
Of course, while he said this, Luo Chen would definitely not refuse a stable supply of Superior Ascending Dragon Pills!
Tao Wan rolled her eyes and silently cursed.
However, she knew that this offer alone wouldn't convince Luo Chen.
After all, it involved the Incarnation Pill!
"From my observations, you don't have a Lifebound Treasure yet, do you?"
Whoosh! Luo Chen's gaze fixed on Tao Wan's voluptuous body, where an iron tablet had appeared in her hand.
"Based on my understanding of you, you seek the best pills, the most superior Core Formation techniques, and you're preparing for the war to obtain a Tier 3 Spirit Land. It doesn't make sense for you to learn the Core Formation techniques of solitary cultivators or family cultivators and use a mere Intermediate Artifact as your Lifebound Treasure."
"I assume you've been contemplating what kind of treasure to use as your Lifebound Treasure."
Tao Wan slowly raised the iron tablet, "For alchemists like you, what treasure could be more suitable as a Lifebound Treasure than a pill cauldron?"
This was common knowledge!
A Lifebound Treasure was an object for both life and cultivation.
Aside from daily pill refinement and nourishing it with spiritual power, regular use could also aid in faster cultivation.
However, if a Lifebound Treasure was frequently used, one had to consider combat damage and the risk of severing the mental connection.
If it were to be destroyed, it would significantly impact cultivation.
This created a conflicting and awkward situation.
For alchemists, using a pill refinement tool as their Lifebound Treasure could completely resolve this dilemma.
When refining pills, one can take out and use their Lifebound Treasure from time to time.
Not only does this deepen the connection, but it also aids in its advancement without worrying about depletion.
Therefore, every formidable pill master will try their best to seek a Cauldron or Pill Furnace as their Lifebound Treasure.
For example, Shang Hu's Lifebound Treasure is the Shangshu Cauldron, a large cauldron used for pill refinement!
Luo Chen swallowed his saliva, "What is this?"
"Qingdan Valley has the casting methods for three major Cauldron Lifebound Treasures, and this is one of them. If you agree to help, this blueprint will be yours." Tao Wan spoke slowly, her crisp words sounding like a tempting melody, making Luo Chen's heart stir.
Seeing the clarity in Luo Chen's eyes, Tao Wan gently persuaded, "Do you know that our Qingdan Valley's sect treasure, the Azure Sky Crystal Cauldron, was forged using this method, and it's now a Superior Artifact! It's not easy for ordinary artifacts to ascend to the Superior level. The blueprint I'm giving you, although not for the Azure Sky Crystal Cauldron, also has its advantages."
Luo Chen was well aware of the Azure Sky Crystal Cauldron's merits.
That treasure cauldron, in addition to the mother cauldron, also had thirty-six smaller cauldrons!
Not only could it process a large number of medicinal ingredients simultaneously, but it also had the miraculous effect of enhancing the grade of pills!
According to rumors, the Qingdan Valley's ancestors had once relied on this cauldron to transcend realms and refine fourth-grade pills.
At this thought, Luo Chen suddenly understood why Qingdanzi, just a third-grade pill master, had the confidence to refine the Incarnation Pill.
He must have thoroughly consecrated the sect's treasure!
Suppressing the greed in his heart, Luo Chen asked, "If that's the case, why not give me a refined cauldron directly? What's the use of this blueprint?"
He didn't want to play the game of teaching someone to fish.
Naturally, the sooner he obtained his Lifebound Treasure, the better.
Otherwise, with the blueprint, he would still need to find an excellent third-grade Artifact Forging Master.
Tao Wan was a bit surprised by this.
"Don't you know that forging your own Lifebound Treasure is the best option?"
Luo Chen was taken aback and subconsciously asked, "Not everyone knows how to forge artifacts, so where does the idea of forging it yourself come from?"
Tao Wan shook her head and smiled, "Of course, ordinary Golden Core Cultivators can't do it, but you've mastered the Primordial True Flame! With the Primordial True Flame under your control, you only need to follow the blueprint and refine the corresponding treasure embryo. Then, find a Formation Array Master to engrave the array, and your Lifebound Treasure will be complete."
Luo Chen was stunned again.
It seemed... that simple? His understanding of the withering and flourishing flame was indeed too little.
Over the years, he had only discovered its ability to plunder the life force of beasts.
But he had forgotten that this flame was originally the Flame Alliance's revered tool for forging artifacts!
Forging artifacts was its inherent function.
"In fact, if you want something simple, you can find an ordinary artifact and use the Primordial True Flame to refine and consecrate it. Over time, you'll also obtain a decent Lifebound Treasure. But with your temperament, I know you won't settle for less, so I'm giving you this blueprint."
"Then, are you willing to help?"
Tao Wan looked at Luo Chen with confidence.
She believed that under these conditions, Luo Chen should agree.
However!
"I want the Superior Ascending Dragon Pill, the cauldron blueprint, and the Incarnation Pill..."
In an instant, the woman's gentle brows turned sharp like knives.
"The pill formula!"
"I want it too!"
Hearing this, Tao Wan suppressed her anger.
But even so, she still shook her head.
"Do you know that you're being greedy?"
Luo Chen said solemnly, "I know, I might be going too far. But who among us Golden Core Cultivators doesn't aspire for the Three Flowers Gather at the Apex and the Five Qi Converge at the Origin? Don't you want that too?"
"Yes, with the support of your sect, you don't need to go through all the trouble yourself."
"But I'm different."
"If possible, I'd like to borrow that Incarnation Pill formula once."
What's the difference between borrowing it once and directly asking for it? After reaching the Foundation Establishment Stage, a cultivator's comprehension and memory improve.
And after Core Formation, with the assistance of divine sense, they won't forget what they've read.
Borrowing it once means memorizing it all.
Tao Wan could understand Luo Chen's situation, but from the sect's perspective...
After some consideration, she finally gave her answer.
"I can't make this decision. Even I haven't seen the so-called Incarnation Pill formula. If you want it, you'll have to discuss it with our Grand Elder later!"
"Of course, I'll convey your intentions. Considering our relationship, I'll also put in a good word for you."
Luo Chen clasped his fists in gratitude, "Thank you very much."
Tao Wan sighed, this wasn't her first time dealing with Luo Chen.
Unknowingly, his bargaining skills had improved again.
Fortunately, except for the pill formula condition, everything else was still within the boundaries set by the Grand Elder.
"When will you set off?"
"Wait half a month more. I plan to meet with Wind and Rain Manor and the Cen Clan for an alliance, preparing to make a big move in the upcoming war."
Half a month?
Tao Wan muttered.
She could still afford to wait.
Suddenly, a light laughter reached her ears.
"I heard that Qingdan Valley will also participate in the war. If our Luo Tian Alliance is in trouble, we hope Qingdan Valley can lend a hand."
The woman's face stiffened.
She admitted that she had underestimated Luo Chen's audacity.
(End of Chapter)
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