Chen Pingan rose and walked to the railing, gently waving the white jade lingzhi in his hand towards a figure across the Bailu Ferry.

Liu Zhimao, the River-Cutting True Lord returning to Bailu Ferry, focused his gaze and recognized the former Qingxia Island accountant. He was wearing a Taoist attire that seemed somewhat presumptuous, but even if Sect God’s Envoy Qi Tianjun saw it with his own eyes, he would likely turn a blind eye. Liu Zhimao laughed heartily, rode the wind to Cross-Cloud Pavilion, landed gracefully, and clasped his fist, saying, “Mountain Lord Chen’s Sword Inquiry this time is truly awe-inspiring.”

Chen Pingan put away the white jade lingzhi in his sleeve, smiling and returning the gesture, “Greetings, True Lord Liu.”

It turned out that earlier, the message-bearing flying swords from First Line Peak had bloomed like a riot of flowers across all the peaks. Liu Zhimao had received a secret letter from Chen Pingan, asking him to rush to Bailu Ferry after the Sword Inquiry concluded, as he had something to discuss.

Chen Pingan handed over a pot of Green God Mountain liquor, getting straight to the point, “I originally intended to suggest to the Zhengyang Mountain to recommend True Lord Liu as the master of a subordinate sect, but plans went awry midway. I apologize for making True Lord Liu make a trip for nothing.”

Liu Zhimao accepted the wine pot, not rushing to break the mud seal to drink. Who knew if it was a welcoming drink or a punishment? Besides, he felt like he was listening to nonsense. What was all this about? He was the chief offering of a True realm sect, and his name was high up on the Golden Jade Register in the Jade Decree Sect’s ancestral hall. Being the master of a subordinate sect of Zhengyang Mountain? This accountant was quite the schemer.

But if Liu Zhimao truly had a choice, or rather, if he had a choice, assuming that Jiang Shangzhen and Wei Ying held no grudges about the matter, Liu Zhimao wouldn’t mind going with the flow and agreeing to this proposal. After all, with Liu Laocheng’s robust health, already an Immortal realm cultivator with excellent aptitude, as long as he avoided disasters and accidents, he could easily live for another thousand years or so. Furthermore, the position of sect master and chief offering, according to the unwritten rules of the mountain, seemed to be only a step apart, but was actually a vast distance. Liu Laocheng was able to be promoted from offering to sect master as an exception due to his personal relationship with Xun Yuan, coupled with Jiang Shangzhen remembering their old friendship and Wei Ying being busy returning to Tongye Continent to take over as the master of the upper sect, so she didn’t interfere, or rather, didn’t want to embarrass Jiang Shangzhen. Therefore, the fourth sect master in the history of True Realm Sect would most likely be someone sent over from Jade Decree Sect to succeed Liu Laocheng. It would definitely not be him, Liu Zhimao. He understood these basic rules of the political arena.

Wei Ying didn’t think much of him, so much so that the Jade Decree Sect’s ancestral hall had so many empty chairs, and Liu Zhimao, as the chief offering of the lower sect, still couldn’t get a seat. It was inappropriate, but what could Liu Zhimao say? He didn’t even dare to complain in private. Since he had no one in court, no mountain to rely on, he would obediently accept his fate.

Liu Zhimao was, after all, a Jade Purity cultivator from a wild background. In front of Chen Pingan, he didn’t hide his disappointment, lamenting, “It’s a pity that this didn’t work out.”

Using Shujian Lake to become a register offering of a sect, and then using True Realm Sect to become the master of another sect, was what he considered “moving a tree to survive, moving a person to thrive.”

A mountain wild cultivator who was used to scavenging and picking up scraps had no limits to what he dared to think and do.

Liu Zhimao raised the wine pot, laughing heartily, “Regardless, I appreciate Mountain Lord Chen’s kindness. If there are similar good opportunities in the future, please remember Liu Zhimao first.”

Chen Pingan raised his wine pot and tapped it lightly against his, nodding and smiling, “I can’t guarantee anything, but you can look forward to it.”

Liu Zhimao’s eyes lit up. Even if he knew it might be nonsense, it still gave him some hope. It was better than wasting his days in the True Realm Sect, unable to see any light at all.

Liu Zhimao took a sip of the wine and heard Chen Pingan say that it was Green God Mountain liquor produced by his shop.

Usually, mountain liquors and immortal brews were just that, you drank them and that was it. What kind of flavor could you taste?

Liu Zhimao only took one sip today, savoring it for a moment, frowning slightly to show respect, then nodding gently to indicate that it was good wine.

Chen Pingan leaned on the railing, gently shaking the wine pot.

Liu Zhimao didn’t come just to drink. Looking at the man beside him, Liu Zhimao felt a sense of detachment, unable to believe that the impoverished youth who was once like a floating leaf, whose life could only drift along with the current, could actually walk step by step to this point. He gave others wine, and they dared not refuse, nor dared to say it wasn’t good. At the entrance of Qingxia Island, the few accounting rooms were still there. His unworthy senior disciple, Tian Hujun, dared not look at them directly whenever he went to Qingxia Island to pay respects to his master and participate in meetings, his gaze would intentionally or unintentionally avoid that building.

He believed that the young people of Zhengyang Mountain in the future, whether they were riding swords or riding the wind, as long as they passed the ruins of the Immortal Sword-Bearing Peak, would probably be the same, with resentment on their faces and reverence in their hearts.

Liu Zhimao drank quickly, putting the empty wine pot into his sleeve. Since Chen Pingan’s posture today didn’t seem like he was digging up old grudges, Liu Zhimao felt more relaxed, no longer as worried as he had been on the way here, fearing that this accountant who had inexplicably become a Sword Immortal would feel unsatisfied after dealing with Zhengyang Mountain and wanted to have a good reckoning with Qingxia Island. After all, Liu Zhimao knew very well that when Chen Pingan left Shujian Lake, he actually hadn’t been able to accomplish many things, such as changing customs and habits.

Liu Zhimao sighed without reason, “Being able to eat, dress warmly, and sleep soundly today, and getting up tomorrow, is a good time on the path of cultivation. A pot of good wine, two free people, chatting a few idle words.”

Chen Pingan smiled, “Don’t say idle words are idle words, often things come from idle words.”

Liu Zhimao nodded, “Indeed, that’s an old principle that’s hard to come by.”

Chen Pingan turned around and said, “Bamboo Emperor is coming here soon, so I won’t see True Lord Liu off. If there’s a chance to visit Spring Court Prefecture in the future, I’ll drink and reminisce with True Lord Liu.”

Liu Zhimao nodded with a smile and rode the wind away. His somewhat relaxed mood once again became anxious. What he was thinking about now was quickly reviewing the actions of Tian Hujun and his other disciples over the years. In short, he absolutely couldn’t let this accountant settle accounts on his head.

Chen Pingan glanced in the direction of First Line Peak. The meeting was over, and the Sword Immortals and offering guests of the peaks were heading home, each returning to their own homes.

Looking again at the receding figure of the River-Cutting True Lord, Chen Pingan took a sip of wine. The breeze brushed his face as he looked out, white clouds rising from the mountains, and water winding around the green peaks.

Mountain ancestral rules, political arena rules, military regulations, Jianghu morals, village customs, and habits.
Regardless of who you are, once you’re in a certain place, you must abide by its rules. Take Lake Jianjian of the past, for example. Liu Laocheng of Gongliu Island and Liu Zhimao of Qingxia Island were like the heavens themselves, capable of turning clouds into rain with a mere gesture. These local immortal cultivators of Lake Jianjian were the sole arbiters of right and wrong. But when True Realm Sect took over Lake Jianjian, the vast majority of wild cultivators transformed overnight into registered immortal masters. They then had to adhere to the precepts of Jade Decree Sect. Even Liu Laocheng and Liu Zhimao, along with all the other uncultivated immortals of Lake Jianjian, were akin to naive pupils entering a school, re-learning the scriptures and the way of the world, except some learned faster than others.

From the corridor outside the house behind him came a gentle knock, accompanied by the voice of the innkeeper, Ni Yuerong, announcing the arrival of the Sect Leader, who wished to meet with Mountain Lord Chen.

Chen Pingan turned his head and smiled. “Please, come in.”

Sect Leader Zhu Huang and Ni Yuerong, who hailed from Green Mist Peak, crossed the threshold together. The latter carried a jade-mounted scroll. Upon reaching the viewing platform, Ni Yuerong brought over a low table and two prayer mats. Kneeling on the floor, she unfurled the scroll on the table, revealing an elegant gathering depicted by an immortal artist. She looked up at the Sect Leader, who nodded slightly. Ni Yuerong then raised her right hand, her left hand lightly supporting her sleeve, and “plucked” an incense burner from the silk painting. Immediately, wisps of purple smoke curled upwards. Next, she produced a set of snow-white porcelain tea utensils, placing two teacups on either side of the table. Finally, she presented a platter of celestial fruits, placing it in the center.

Having completed all these menial tasks, Ni Yuerong remained kneeling, her hands folded on her lap, eyes downcast, showing not even a sidelong glance. She dared neither to look at Sect Leader Zhu Huang, nor to steal a second glance at the Mountain Lord sword immortal with the lotus crown atop his head.

The Mountain Lords of Fallen Peak and Upright Sun Mountain, two bitter enemies, now sat on opposite sides.

There was not the slightest hint of animosity in the air. It was more like two old friends enjoying tea and conversation.

The grudges on the mountain were not like a petty squabble between street urchins, ending with empty threats.

They were like sturdy pillars standing against the surging river, where the stones remained even after a thousand years of flowing water.

Zhu Huang smiled. “Ni Yuerong, you may leave. Call you if I need anything.”

He didn’t worry in the slightest that she would secretly send a message to Yan Chu of Water Dragon Peak, for that would be tantamount to courting death.

Ni Yuerong immediately rose, wordlessly bowed, and gracefully departed.

Zhu Huang raised his teacup and smiled. “Using tea in place of wine, my hospitality is lacking. I hope Mountain Lord Chen won’t take offense.”

Chen Pingan held the teacup with two fingers and smiled. “There’s no rush to drink tea.”

Zhu Huang nodded and indeed set the teacup down.

Chen Pingan asked with a smile, “May I ask what brings Sect Leader Zhu to Overcloud Pavilion?”

If it were someone like Yan Chu here, he would probably be cursing inwardly, calling him an arrogant and deceitful scoundrel.

But Zhu Huang remained composed. “Before Mountain Lord Chen returns to Fallen Peak, I wish to ascertain one thing: how to completely resolve this old debt, so that Fallen Peak may walk the broad path and Upright Sun Mountain the narrow bridge, each going its own way, without interfering with the other. I trust Mountain Lord Chen’s character, so there’s no need for any mountain and water covenants. Fallen Peak will surely be true to its word.”

Chen Pingan surveyed his surroundings, then slowly said, “Upright Sun Mountain owes much of its present prosperity to Sect Leader Zhu. As the head of a household, the leader of a sect, one must not only diligently cultivate oneself, but also handle countless matters. The hardships involved are not easily understood, even by the Law Enforcer or the God of Wealth, let alone those descendants who bask in their ancestors’ glory without appreciating it.”

Zhu Huang directly addressed the implied meaning. “Is Mountain Lord Chen saying that the events of today are due to my lack of restraint, and have little to do with Yuan Zhenyl?”

Chen Pingan chuckled. “When I was young, I read two pieces of sage advice that hold true everywhere: ‘Rise at dawn, sweep and clean the courtyard, keep both inside and outside tidy. Retire at dusk, lock the doors, and personally inspect them.’ Even ordinary families adhere to these principles, let alone the leader of a sect of immortals?”

Zhu Huang smiled. “So, there’s nothing to discuss?”

Chen Pingan said, “If you say there’s nothing to discuss, perhaps there is. If I say there’s something to discuss, there certainly is. If I’m merely here to impart a sage’s wisdom to Sect Leader Zhu, then there’s nothing to discuss. How bored must I be to willingly revisit Overcloud Pavilion?”

Zhu Huang said in a deep voice, “Then I ask Mountain Lord Chen to speak plainly. If it’s acceptable, Zhu Huang will comply. If not, then Upright Sun Mountain will have no choice but to go down in flames. I’ll trouble the guests of Fallen Peak to return by boat, and allow you to smash the new and old peaks, sever the ancestral line of Upright Sun Mountain, and from now on…”

He had barely started speaking when his patience ran out, and he began to make threats?

Chen Pingan smiled without a word.

He recalled the time he was drinking with Liu Zhimao at Lake Jianjian. His patience was much better than Zhu Huang’s.

As for the danger of the situation, his trip to Gongliu Island to find Liu Laocheng was far more precarious than Zhu Huang’s visit to Overcloud Pavilion to find him.

But Zhu Huang quickly stopped speaking, because an uninvited guest had arrived, like a bird landing on a branch. After she appeared, she flicked her sleeves and bowed to Chen Pingan, calling him “Master”. Then, this female ancestor of Jujube Peak, Tian Wan, plopped down on the ground, gazing at Zhu Huang with a smile. Like a madwoman possessed, she took out a vanity mirror and makeup box from her sleeves and began applying cosmetics to her face, shaking her head and saying, “Those who don’t reason will be annoyed by reasoning. I’ll annoy you to death with reasoning! What can you do?”

Zhu Huang was too lazy to look at the eccentric Tian Wan. He simply picked up the jade pendant hanging from his waist and placed it on the low table. The immortal could only support the Sword Summit for the time it took to burn one incense stick, but now there was a new stick of time.

Chen Pingan looked troubled. “This gift is too heavy.”

Tian Wan burst into laughter, falling backwards and rolling on the ground, her branches trembling in an extremely disgusting manner.

Zhu Huang glanced at Tian Wan and asked, “Mountain Lord Chen, what’s going on here?”

Chen Pingan suddenly stood up and smiled. “You’ve come? I’ll be catching up with the ferry soon.”

The next moment, Zhu Huang saw that across the low table from Tian Wan, a woman carrying a sword box had appeared. She held a sword sheath, its tip pressed against the jade pendant on the table, and asked, “How are you going to go down in flames?”

She gently pressed down on the sword sheath, and the jade pendant shattered on the spot.
The Bamboo Emperor was utterly shocked. He hurriedly rolled up his sleeves, attempting to gather the scattered sword intent. Unexpectedly, the woman lightly tapped the table with her scabbard. The complex, interwoven sword intent, as if receiving an imperial edict, completely ignored the Bamboo Emperor’s control. Instead, like a cultivator dutifully following their ancestral master’s decree, it instantly dispersed. Individual strands of sword principle peeled away, blossoming on the table like a flower with distinct veins.

“Tian Wan” immediately rose and bowed, saying, “Greetings, Martial Aunt.”

Ning Yao nodded lightly and couldn’t help but say, “Change your face.”

“As you command!” Cui Dongshan immediately used a glamour, transforming into the appearance of a white-robed youth.

Tian Wan had already had her soul separated by him. She was essentially walking the same old path that Cui Dongshan had personally traversed. Then, half of Tian Wan’s soul had all memories erased by Cui Dongshan, nurtured within the porcelain figure of a young girl, “like a peanut growing” in its soil.

Ning Yao said to Chen Ping’an, “You two continue chatting.”

Chen Ping’an smiled, “Alright, we’ll be done in a few words.”

Ning Yao went to the railing, and Cui Dongshan sat down again, this time sitting upright, without any hint of playfulness.

The Bamboo Emperor remained motionless, not even daring to continue gathering the sword intent. The shattered jade tokens in the corner of his eye broke the sect leader’s heart.

Fortunately, he had been secretive about his movements and isolated this gazebo, preventing news of his meeting with Chen Ping’an from leaking out. Otherwise, if his Martial Uncle Xia Yuancui saw this, she might immediately harbor thoughts of usurpation.

Every previous sect leader of Zheng Yang Mountain, regardless of their nature or cultivation, had been able to hold their position firmly, all thanks to these jade tokens.

Chen Ping’an sat down again and smiled, “Waiting here for you to come to my door is for one thing, to give you, Bamboo Emperor, a choice.”

Earlier, drinking tea in the Ancestral Hall of First Line Peak was to make the Bamboo Emperor choose between Zheng Yang Mountain and Yuan Zhenye.

The Bamboo Emperor said, “I’m all ears.”

Chen Ping’an said, “You can choose one of three people to be the next Sect Master of Zheng Yang Mountain’s lower sect: Tao Yanbo, Liu Zhimao, or Yuan Bai.”

A former God of Fortune about to be forcibly sealed in Autumn Command Mountain for a century. A True Realm sect’s chief enshrinement from a wild cultivation background in Shujian Lake. A sword cultivator from Confronting Snow Peak who has not yet been officially removed from his position.

The Bamboo Emperor gave a silent laugh, unsure as he asked, “Liu Zhimao? That River-Cutting True Lord from True Realm Sect?”

Cui Dongshan patted his chest and muttered to himself, “As soon as I heard that I could create a lower sect, this Zhuyu Peak cultivator’s heart bloomed with joy.”

The Bamboo Emperor ignored him and said, “During the ancestral hall meeting just now, I already removed Tao Yanbo’s financial authority, and Autumn Command Mountain needs to be sealed for a hundred years.”

The Bamboo Emperor lamented, “As for Yuan Bai, how could Lord Jinshan of Central Peak let him go? Moreover, Yuan Bai is steadfast, and his conduct is extremely opinionated. Since he publicly declared his departure from Zheng Yang Mountain, I’m afraid it would be difficult to change his mind, right?”

Cui Dongshan clicked his tongue, “Oh my, Bamboo Sect Master is truly underestimating himself. Back then, you were able to move him with emotion and reason, persuading Yuan Bai, an outsider, to become your guest and then your enshrinement, to make Yuan Bai disregard life and death, even violating his sword heart, to go and ask the sword in the Yellow River. Now you’re starting to mutter about Yuan Bai’s extremely opinionated nature? Or is it that Bamboo Sect Master has gotten old and your memory is failing?”

Chen Ping’an pushed the teacup to Cui Dongshan and reprimanded him with a smile, “How can you speak to the Bamboo Emperor Sect Master like that?”

Cui Dongshan accepted the teacup with both hands and drank it all in one gulp.

The Bamboo Emperor made a decision in his heart and asked one last question, “Is that all? Does Mountain Lord Chen have any other instructions?”

Chen Ping’an smiled, “That’s all.”

The Bamboo Emperor sighed and said, “Please, Mountain Lord Chen, if you have anything to say, just say it directly and give me a straight answer.”

Chen Ping’an said, “It’s just this.”

The Bamboo Emperor shook his head, obviously not believing it. He hesitated for a moment and raised his sleeve, but as soon as he made this movement, the handsome youth with a crimson dot between his eyebrows grabbed the ground with both hands and moved backwards with a panicked expression, shouting, “Master, be careful! This Bamboo Emperor is reneging on his word and plans to use hidden weapons to attack! Or he’s learning the trick of smashing a cup as a signal, wanting to command the heroes of the various peaks, relying on their numbers to gang up on us on their own territory…”

Chen Ping’an said, “Shut up.”

Cui Dongshan gave an “oh” sound and moved back to his original position.

From his sleeve, the Bamboo Emperor pulled out a stack of ancient Feng Chan jade tablets, which instantly radiated precious light. He said, “This is the Bamboo Emperor’s apology gift to Fallen Mountain. Seven jade tablets from the Chan lands, originating from various ancient mountains on Treasure Bottle Continent. Originally, I planned to refine them to use as the foundation for the many vassal mountains when selecting the location for the lower sect, as treasures to suppress the mountains and help gather the mountain and water aura. If it’s not enough, I can personally take Mountain Lord Chen to the treasure vault and let you choose anything.”

Chen Ping’an waved his hand, “Spare me that.”

The Bamboo Emperor was silent, simply staring intently at this young sword immortal from Fallen Mountain. Making such a great show and questioning Zheng Yang Mountain with a sword, besides revenge, what else could Chen Ping’an be seeking?! Could it be just to cause a ruckus and leave the entire Treasure Bottle Continent with the impression of being ostentatious, assertive, and overbearing? The world loves a spectacle, but after watching the spectacle, they always like to point fingers and gossip.

Chen Ping’an stood up, folded his hands in his sleeves, and narrowed his eyes, smiling, “I only have one thing to say. Regarding Qiong Zhi Peak, you should pay more attention to it in the future. It can’t be that just because they are lucky enough to climb the mountain and cultivate, they are only aiming to warm the beds of the ancestral masters of the various peaks in the mountains without name or title, or they are sent down the mountain to be concubines for generals and ministers. Of course, if they are willing to do so, that’s another matter, each has their own fate. Those who don’t want this, at least Zheng Yang Mountain, give them a chance to shake their heads and refuse, without having to worry about being resented by the peak master, so that cultivation is full of obstacles and every day is like facing the end of the year.”

The Bamboo Emperor stood up as well and nodded, “I will personally keep an eye on Qiong Zhi Peak from now on. Anything else?”

Peak Master Leng Qi, she can now cultivate with peace of mind. As for all the affairs, big and small, of Qiong Zhi Peak, don’t bother with them anymore.
As for the selection of the peak lord, Liu Yu seems quite suitable? During Liu Xianyang’s numerous sword duels back then, he was only courteous towards her. Liu Yu is currently a sword cultivator bottlenecked at the Dragon Gate realm, not meeting the requirements? We can simply leave the peak lord position vacant for a few years, until she ascends to the Golden Core realm. Liu Yu’s aptitude for cultivation is actually excellent; it’s just that compared to Wu Tijing and Yu Lin, she seems less exceptional. A sword cultivator with the potential to reach the Golden Core realm within sixty years is more than capable of being the peak lord of Qiong Zhi Peak. Moreover, Leng Qi, that woman, had a clandestine, fleeting affair with Martial Uncle Xia Yuancui in her youth. Therefore, for many years, the sword cultivator lineage of Qiong Zhi Peak has closely followed in the footsteps of Full Moon Peak.

Chen Ping’an smiled faintly, “That’s all. In truth, what you said earlier was quite accurate. I really don’t have much to discuss with your Zhengyang Mountain.”

The Bamboo Emperor said, “Then I shall take it that we have reached an agreement with Mountain Master Chen?”

Cui Dongshan rubbed his chin and chuckled, “It’s a pity that the celestial maidens of Qiong Zhi Peak are probably currently cursing Master for bullying others, ruining the grand undertaking of their Zhengyang Mountain, and causing them all to be unable to hold their heads high.”

The Bamboo Emperor smiled, “Your Master wouldn’t care about such things. What Mountain Master Chen truly cares about is whether the future female cultivators of Qiong Zhi Peak will dare to shake their heads and say no. But rest assured, Mountain Master Chen, the atmosphere of Qiong Zhi Peak in the future won’t make things so difficult for them.”

Cui Dongshan exclaimed in admiration, “Indeed, only enemies are true confidants. A few words from Sect Leader Zhu are worth more than several vats of spittle from the cultivators of Zhengyang Mountain’s various peaks.”

Cui Dongshan took a step forward, his figure radiating brilliant light. He ultimately left Tian Wan’s shell in place. The white-robed youth turned his head, raised two fingers, and pointed to his eyes, indicating to the woman whose soul was split in two: what you see and think is what I see and think. If you don’t believe in fate, then let’s use your body as a place to discuss Dao, each displaying our abilities and engaging in scheming.

The Bamboo Emperor glanced at the white-robed youth, then at Tian Wan, who seemed to have regained her original appearance.

Even the Bamboo Emperor had to be terrified. This eccentric, flamboyant white-robed youth certainly possessed heaven-defying sorcery, but his methods were truly vile.

Chen Ping’an took a few steps forward, then suddenly stopped.

The Bamboo Emperor’s heartstrings instantly tightened.

Chen Ping’an turned his head and said, “Remembered a small matter, and I still need to trouble Sect Leader Zhu.”

The Bamboo Emperor said, “Speak without hesitation.”

Chen Ping’an asked, “I wonder how far Zhengyang Mountain is from Fallen Peak?”

The Bamboo Emperor pondered for a moment and replied, “For cultivators like us traveling by wind, it’s roughly two hundred thousand li. Why does Mountain Master Chen ask this?”

Chen Ping’an narrowed his eyes and smiled, “Then please, Sect Leader Zhu, erect a stele on the northern border of Zhengyang Mountain, with the inscription: ‘Two hundred thousand li north to Fallen Peak.'”

The Bamboo Emperor’s expression changed erratically. He could even take Chen Ping’an to tour the sect’s forbidden treasure vault, allowing him to choose and take away natural treasures at will, but a boundary marker that wouldn’t cost a few snowflakes was an insurmountable difficulty.

Chen Ping’an reminded, “Bamboo Emperor, I’m not discussing this with you.”

The Bamboo Emperor remained silent for a moment, then laughed and nodded, “A trifle matter.”

Chen Ping’an removed the illusion, and, with space-bending strides, traveled north with Ning Yao, riding the wind to catch up with the dragon boat ferry.

Cui Dongshan leaped up, displaying the Jianghu skill of Stairway to the Clouds. He bounced higher and higher, playfully saying, “Sect Leader Zhu, I didn’t take anything, leaving empty-handed, don’t hold a grudge! Sister Tian, the green mountains remain, the green waters flow forever, we bid farewell for now.”

Tian Wan, temporarily free, sneered, “What farewell? We’ll be together day and night.”

The white-robed youth flicked his sleeves, his figure twisted, transforming into a snow-white rainbow, piercing the sky, a celestial’s carefree journey.

After the three had departed, the Bamboo Emperor asked softly, “How did you fall into his trap?”

Tian Wan no longer had any of her former flattering expression. Her eyes were sharp as she stared at this waste of Zhengyang Mountain. Her face was cold, and her tone was stiff as she said, “Bamboo Emperor, I advise you to manage your own mess. Fallen Peak is not Wind and Thunder Garden, and Chen Ping’an is not Li Tuanjing. Don’t think the storm has settled. As for me, as long as you are sensible and don’t investigate in private, I will still be the female ancestral master of Zhu Yu Peak, and mind my own business, like a line from One-Line Peak.”

Having endured a series of major unexpected events today, the Bamboo Emperor didn’t care about one more Tian Wan with a drastically changed temperament. He smiled, “Su Jia and that sword-nurturing gourd, as well as my closed-door disciple Wu Tijing, were all brought up the mountain by you anyway. You decide how to deal with them.”

Tian Wan said indifferently, “Immediately restore Su Jia’s status as a direct descendant of the ancestral hall. She still has the aptitude to continue practicing the sword. I will secretly help her. Put that sword-nurturing gourd into the treasure vault. Nominally, it still belongs to Zhengyang Mountain. When I need to use it, I will take it myself. As for Wu Tijing, who has already left the mountain, don’t bother with him. Your master-disciple relationship is over. You can’t force it. Not interfering might help Zhengyang Mountain produce a Wei Jin of the Immortal Terrace of the Wind and Snow Temple in the future.”

The Bamboo Emperor asked, “Then what about the three matters of the sect’s intelligence, the mountain and water gazette, and the mirror flower and water moon?”

Tian Wan sneered, “Naturally, I’ll have to trouble the Sect Leader to find someone else.”

In fact, what the Bamboo Emperor wanted to slap to death the most right now was the proud disciple of Yan Chu of Water Dragon Peak.

Tian Wan turned her head, looked at the sect leader who was still complacent and planning a continent yesterday, and mocked, “Don’t you still know who the person questioning the sword was?”

After the Bamboo Emperor sat down, he extended a palm and smiled, “Why not sit down and have tea and chat slowly?”

Tian Wan directly rode the wind back to that bird-unfriendly Zhu Yu Peak. The Bamboo Emperor smiled self-deprecatingly and called the shopkeeper Ni Yuerong to accompany him for tea.

Ni Yuerong knelt on the futon, drinking tea, feeling like she was drinking knives.

The Bamboo Emperor suddenly posed a question: “Ni Yuerong, if you could choose back then, and no matter what choice you made, you would have no worries, would you still be Yan Chu’s mountain concubine without a title?”

Ni Yuerong’s face was deathly pale. The Bamboo Emperor leaned forward and actually refilled her cup of tea, then said kindly, “Don’t be nervous, I just want to hear the truth.”

Ni Yuerong was covered in sweat, and said in a trembling voice, “Being favored by Law-Enforcing Master Yan, although there is no formal title, Ni Yuerong has no complaints. Over the years, Law-Enforcing Master Yan has been of great help to me, Guo Yun Tower, and Qing Wu Peak.”
Grand Bamboo Empress smiled and nodded, her answer was never the point. What the Grand Bamboo Empress truly desired was her constant state of trepidation. Thus, the Grand Bamboo Empress inquired again, “Do you believe Yuan Bai’s appointment as the Lower Sect Leader is a boon or a bane for our Upper Sect?”

Ni Yurong, her voice tight, responded, “The Sect Leader is wise and discerning.”

Grand Bamboo Empress chuckled, “Then, if you were to oversee the Lower Sect’s treasury, how would you proceed?”

A spark of inspiration ignited in Ni Yurong’s mind, “I shall sever all ties with Water Dragon Peak, conducting myself solely through official channels, devoid of any personal considerations.”

Grand Bamboo Empress continued her relentless interrogation, “If, within the Lower Sect, you held immense power, and one day you were to encounter a Lower Sect disciple of handsome mien, one who struck a chord within you, what would you do? Would you emulate Yan Chu, resorting to coercion and enticement?”

Ni Yurong felt as though struck by lightning. Had this Sect Leader lost her senses today? Why was she posing such bizarre inquiries? With a touch of awkwardness, Ni Yurong replied, “If both parties are mutually enamored, they shall become Daoist partners on the mountain. However, if the other’s heart is already betrothed, forced affection yields no sweetness. I would not dare to impose my will.”

Ni Yurong certainly held trepidation towards the Sect Leader before her. However, the young Sword Immortal adorned with a lotus coronet and clad in a green gauze Daoist robe equally instilled unease within her. She always felt that the man would suddenly appear with a smile, as if entering an uninhabited realm, casually materializing within the bounds of Zheng Yang Mountain. He would stand beside her, without uttering a word, leaving her bewildered by his thoughts and his next actions.

Grand Bamboo Empress sighed, her internal anxieties mounting rather than diminishing.

It seemed that the most incisive swordplay of the day wasn’t the sword techniques displayed by Chen Ping’an and Liu Xianyang, but rather the account books Liu Xianyang had produced upon ascending the mountain.

It was evident that those ledgers were the handiwork of Chen Ping’an.

For Liu Xianyang appeared to be a lazy fellow, disinclined to such matters. Chen Ping’an, on the other hand, despite his youth, possessed a deep-seated sagacity and a meticulous approach, as though he wished to petition Zheng Yang Mountain for the title of Law Overseer. To become a Sword Immortal and to become a Sect Leader, particularly one founding a new sect, were two entirely different matters.

On the White Egret Ferry, Wei Liang strolled along the path through the reeds, withdrawing his gaze from Overcloud Pavilion, he chuckled softly, “A forced dissolution, a mere touch, executed with perfection.”

Returning to the ferry, Chen Ping’an clasped his fist to his palm in greeting to Yu Yue, saying, “Venerable Yu.”

Chen Ping’an rarely spoke so formally, especially to a newly appointed venerable.

The young Mountain Lord didn’t address him as a guest elder, but as a venerable. Yu Yue burst into hearty laughter. With the Hidden Official’s words, the old Sword Cultivator’s anxieties finally dissipated. He could drink with abandon later, enraging that old man Pu.

Then, Chen Ping’an declared they would hold a conference. Little Millet promptly led the way, selecting the largest room on the Dragon Boat Ferry. Chen Ping’an casually sat in the seat nearest the door, and everyone else followed suit, unconcerned with status or seniority.

Little Millet busied herself, placing a small handful of melon seeds on each person’s table, apologizing for their limited supply.

After the Right Protector of Fallen Phoenix Mountain made a circuit, she discovered that she only had a few melon seeds left for Pei Qian and the White Goose. Scratching her cheek, she retraced her steps, apologizing to Old Cook, Chief Zhou, and Vice Chief Mi, taking back a few seeds from each to replenish Pei Qian and the White Goose.

Cui Dongshan spoke first, saying that their Chief Zhou planned to return to Tongye Continent. Chen Ping’an smiled, “Excellent, you can bring Cao Qinglang along. If all goes well, by the end of this year, or the latest by next spring, we will formally establish the Lower Sect of Fallen Phoenix Mountain in the northern region of Tongye Continent.”

Jiang Shangzhen agreed with a smile, as it was on his way anyway.

Chen Ping’an continued, “If there are no unforeseen circumstances, by the time we return to Fallen Phoenix Mountain, the Skylark transcontinental ferry from the Xuanmi Dynasty should have arrived at Ox Horn Ferry. At that time, you will take this ferry with you to Tongye Continent. With this Skylark ferry, we will need to forge our own transcontinental route. The land routes, the sea routes, how to interact with the dynasties and immortal mountains along the way, especially how to cultivate relationships with the various ports along the route, all require careful consideration and no mistakes. Dongshan and Pei Qian, you are going there to help, but you will eventually return to Fallen Phoenix Mountain, according to the established plan. Seed Master, Mi Yu, Sui Youbian, Cui Wei, you will need to settle there for your cultivation. Seed Master will help Cao Qinglang control the overall direction, Pei Qian will be responsible for interactions with Green Tiger Palace and Pu Mountain Caotang, and Dongshan will keep an eye on the several peaks of Golden Crown Temple. As for our Great Sword Immortal Mi…”

Here, Chen Ping’an stopped speaking with a smile and started eating melon seeds. Mi Yu quickly put down the melon seeds in his hand and straightened his back, “I will listen to Mr. Seed’s instructions. Whether it is to draw a sword to kill someone or to shamelessly ask for help to manage relationships, I will not shirk my responsibilities.”

Seed Qiu smiled, “I dare not casually command Vice Chief Mi.”

Yu Yue was puzzled. The Hidden Official also called you a Sword Immortal, and even a Great Sword Immortal, but you, Mi Yu, did not get angry. What is this, the Vice Chief Elder bullying the ordinary elder?

Chen Ping’an looked at Hongxia and said, “Sui Youbian is not on the boat. Hongxia, please tell her when you get back that she will be responsible for the specific connections with Jade Gui Sect and Cloud Cave Blessed Land when you arrive in Tongye Continent.”

Hongxia immediately stood up to receive the order.

Chen Ping’an smiled, “If you are so polite next time, Little Millet will not give out melon seeds.”

Hongxia sat down, somewhat embarrassed.

Little Millet was sitting on a high chair swinging her legs. Scratching her cheek, “Mountain Master, I’ll have many, many melon seeds in my pocket next time.”

Sister Hongxia is so easy to talk to. Although melon seeds are worth nothing and no one cares about them, it would be embarrassing if Hongxia was the only one without melon seeds.

Chen Ping’an smiled, “Then you will be responsible for reminding Hongxia not to get up to speak next time.”

When Little Millet heard that she had a duty again, she smiled so wide that she couldn’t close her mouth. She nodded vigorously and said, “Okay, okay, I will remind Sister Hongxia before every conference in the future.”

Mi Yu glanced at the old Sword Immortal Yu, and said with a smirk, “Venerable Yu, you can eat melon seeds as soon as you arrive. It’s amazing. In our Fallen Phoenix Mountain, not everyone has this treatment.”

Yu Yue was stunned. Eating melon seeds in Fallen Phoenix Mountain is a special occasion?

Little Millet crossed her arms and frowned, wondering if the sacks of melon seeds she bought were actually treasures, very precious?

Then, he told the Law Overseer Chang Ming to formulate a detailed set of rules, as simple as possible, without being too trivial.
Afterwards, they discussed the name of the sect. Chen Ping’an asked everyone to help come up with ideas. Chen Lingjun, with a righteous air, declared, “Old Master’s talent for naming things is second to none under heaven! No one dares to claim the first spot, and even the one who might consider themselves third would feel a little guilty, wishing they could call themselves fourth…”

Cui Dongshan started throwing melon seed shells at Chen Lingjun. “You’re the most unyielding one, aren’t you?”

As a result, Cui Dongshan received an elbow from Pei Qian beside him. Cui Dongshan glared at the boy in blue robes across from him.

Chen Lingjun was enraged. He caught the melon seed shells and threw them back. “You got hit by Pei Qian, what’s that got to do with me? I haven’t even settled the score with you, you big white goose, for kicking me on the bow of the boat! I am like brothers with Wei Bo, equals! So, the kick you landed wasn’t just on my backside, it was a slap in the face of Great Mountain Lord Wei! Now, in front of my Old Master, your teacher, let’s draw a line and settle this properly!”

Chen Ping’an ignored their bickering. After a moment of silence, he smiled and said, “I hope our Fallen Mountain will always be the Fallen Mountain it is today. I hope so.”

After the meeting, Chen Ping’an only asked Cui Dongshan and Jiang Shangzhen to stay behind.

Ning Yao sat to the side, continuing to munch on melon seeds.

Chen Ping’an said, “Back then, after my Natal Porcelain shattered, I couldn’t piece it all back together. At most, there were six fragments; at least, four. They’re still out there.”

Jiang Shangzhen and Cui Dongshan both looked serious.

Ning Yao also put down her melon seeds.

Chen Ping’an smiled. “The only thing we can be sure of now is that the Grand Empress Dowager of Great Li definitely has one fragment. I caught her slipping up at Passing Cloud Pavilion earlier. Besides that, it’s highly likely that Zou Ziji gave one of the fragments to the sword cultivator Liu Cai. The Ma family of Apricot Blossom Lane might also be hiding one. As for the Jade Forest Sect of the Northern Continent, there might be one, or there might not. I’ll personally go and find out. As for the Yin-Yang School of the Central Continent’s Lu clan, it’s hard to say. As of now, these are the only leads I can think of. You don’t need to be so on edge. Remember, I once severed the Bridge of Longevity. Later, I harmonized with the Sword Qi Great Wall. This current physique of mine has actually turned out to be a good thing. Even if the Natal Porcelain fragments fall into the hands of others, it won’t really affect my cultivation much. It will only give me a chance to follow the vine and find the gourd.”

Chen Ping’an stood up and smiled. “Then let’s take a trip to the capital of Great Li.”