At this moment, Jin Chan Zi’s visit certainly couldn’t be to congratulate Elder Wang Qing on successfully passing his tribulation.

‘He must be here to discuss how to divide the dragons,’ Li Chang Shou couldn’t help but mutter to himself.

Though both were primordial fierce beasts, how could there be such a vast difference between them?

Take Wen Jing Dao Ren who had already pledged allegiance to him – her previous situation in Western Teaching had been quite awkward, constantly on the verge of being cast aside.

She didn’t dare move openly in the primordial world, only able to buzz about in the shadows.

Yet here was Jin Chan Zi, swagger

ing through the South Jambudvipa Continent without any reservations, practically shouting:

“Little Sea God, I’m here to negotiate!”

Clearly, Jin Chan Zi had completed his transition from darkness to light, his background whitewashed by Western Teaching.

Truly a winner among fierce beasts.

Li Chang Shou’s divine consciousness remained quietly within the deity statue, watching the figure standing before the temple door, observing that confident smile…

Perhaps this previous life of Tang Monk believed that, as the ‘blade-wielder’ behind the chaos of the Four Seas, they should share this tacit understanding – it was time for a conversation between ‘blade-wielders’.

Unfortunately…

Li Chang Shou was destined to disappoint Jin Chan Zi today.

According to his long-established “Basic Principles Regarding the West,” even if Jin Chan Zi were to dance and sing in his Sea God Temple calling him “Young Master,” he wouldn’t respond in the slightest, much less reveal any trace of his presence.

In short, absolutely no direct communication with Western Teaching in any form!

Li Chang Shou chuckled inwardly, returning most of his consciousness to the tribulation grounds outside Du Xian Men, where Elder Wang Qing had undergone his ordeal, watching as the thunder sphere began to dissipate…

A chunk of ‘charcoal’ that barely resembled a human form slid down from the sky, crashing into the lava lake below, and floating quietly on its surface.

But at this moment, those present felt only joy, no worry.

Because that chunk of charcoal contained a magnificent vitality!

The Golden Immortal tribulation had passed.

In the sky, the tribulation clouds silently dispersed, transforming into streams of dense spiritual energy flowing downward.

On that barely human-shaped ‘charcoal’, three mysterious flowers slowly manifested on the forehead, chest, and abdomen, gradually moving to converge at the crown, swiftly blooming.

One flower concealed the original spirit;

One flower contained the essence of the Dao;

One flower remained indistinct, suggesting change and possibility.

That chunk of ‘charcoal’ slowly floated up again, sitting cross-legged in mid-air, shedding its outer layer to reveal Elder Wang Qing’s true appearance.

A beam of green light descended from beyond the heavens, enveloping Elder Wang Qing, as an auspicious cloud drifted over. Various celestial phenomena appeared in the sky, accompanied by melodious heavenly chimes…

“Master made it! Master made it!”

At this moment, Jiu Wu finally dared to shout out loud.

All nine Jiu-character immortals cheered and jumped with excitement!

Li Chang Shou’s paper avatar was nearly thrown off the cloud when an overexcited Jiu Jiu grabbed his arm and shook it vigorously…

Ahem, such collisions are better left undescribed.

Jiang Lin Er wiped her eyes with her delicate hand, coughed a few times, and maintained the composure befitting a Master’s wife, standing quietly to the side, the very picture of grace and dignity;

However, due to her rather girlish figure, she somehow lacked the gravitas and intimidating presence.

From this day forward, Du Xian Men had gained another Golden Immortal, raising the safety coefficient of its disciples to another level.

While everyone was cheering and celebrating, Li Chang Shou divided some attention to secretly observe Elder Wan Lin Yun’s expression…

Though Elder Wan wore a series of ‘cold smiles’, there was still some yearning in his features, and his eyes inadvertently revealed hints of loss.

Before long, Elder Wang Qing changed into a long robe, his body emanating a faint fragrance, flower petals dancing around him as he flew toward the nine Jiu-character immortals.

Sect Leader Ji Wu You and Elder Qi Ling led the other elders to offer congratulations, while many immortals from within the sect flew out to welcome him…

Joy and celebration echoed throughout Du Xian Men, greatly inspiring the disciples;

Many older generation Heavenly Immortals sighed with emotion, and Elder Wang Qing’s several martial siblings were also deeply moved, their Dao hearts trembling with excitement.

While the sect was in full celebration, Li Chang Shou quietly returned to Little Qiong Peak to inform his Master and Junior Sister about Elder Wang Qing’s successful passing of the tribulation.

Due to Ancestral Master Jiang Lin Er’s relationship, his Master and Junior Sister also needed to go offer congratulations, but since Li Chang Shou had just returned, there was no need for him to make another trip…

Just as Li Chang Shou thought to steal a few days of leisure, his paper avatar half-reclined in a rocking chair, continuing to organize the Dao of alchemy transmitted by the Elder Lord, he heard a somewhat unclear voice in his mind…

“Sea God, why not send an avatar to meet?”

This Jin Chan Zi seemed to lack patience.

After just an hour or two, he could no longer contain himself and had invaded that small Sea God Temple…

Li Chang Shou glanced at this Six-Winged Golden Cicada through the deity statue, then went back to organizing his alchemical knowledge, completely ignoring the other party.

Jin Chan Zi now stood before the deity statue and spoke again:

“With the Sea God’s cunning, you should know why this poor Daoist has come. Why avoid meeting?”

The small Sea God Temple remained silent, with only a temple keeper hiding under a table, continuously trembling, his mind blank.

Another moment passed…

Jin Chan Zi’s smile gradually faded as he said coldly, “Could it be that the Sea God truly doesn’t take us seriously?”

Li Chang Shou secretly raised an eyebrow.

This Jin Chan Zi was indeed quite subtle, using the Western Teaching’s influence to apply pressure, yet deliberately only saying ‘us’ while never mentioning the word ‘Western’.

No wonder he was valued by the Western higher-ups.

But he still ignored him, quietly watching Jin Chan Zi perform his monologue, even imagining in his mind how this fellow would look wearing kasaya robes and a monk’s hat…

Tsk, quite handsome indeed, somewhat roguish, living up to the name ‘Royal Brother’.

Li Chang Shou first took out his previously made “Golden Immortal Tribulation Observation Notes” and carefully reviewed them, further perfecting his tribulation-crossing plan.

Then he took out more than ten blank jade talismans and began organizing the alchemical insights he had gained according to his understanding, arranging them into an ‘Alchemical Classic’.

During this process, in Li Chang Shou’s mind, that unclear voice sounded periodically…

“Could it be that the Sea God is afraid?”

“Sea God, if you’re unsure, I can first make some oaths according to your rules, how about that?”

“Hmph! Today I want to see how you can avoid meeting me!”

In just an hour, Jin Chan Zi had seated himself directly before the statues of Li Chang Shou and Ao Yi, determined not to leave until achieving his goal.

Li Chang Shou could only slightly shake his head and continue focusing on his work…

Elder Wang Qing’s successful ascension to Golden Immortal had indeed stirred some restlessness in his Dao heart;

In Li Chang Shou’s view, Elder Wang Qing had only six or seven-tenths chance of success overall, several times nearly dying, barely managing to pull through in the end.

This was a gamble with life that he had won, but what if he had lost?

Perhaps by now, Jiang Lin Er would be a widow, the nine Jiu-character immortals would be wailing in grief, and the name Wang Fu Gui would be enshrined on Du Xian Men’s ‘Deceased Immortals’ board.

Do everything that should and could be done to the greatest extent possible, then face the Golden Immortal tribulation with full force.

That way, even if one couldn’t make it through, there would be no regrets.

Steady on, no rush.

…

Du Xian Men was very lively for these two weeks.

The Sect Leader personally ordered that disciples not in seclusion should go to Po Tian Peak to celebrate, immortal feasts were set up before the Bai Fan Hall, and the newly ascended Golden Immortal Elder Wang Qing lectured on the Dao for several days.

Li Chang Shou also took two weeks of leisure, organizing twelve chapters of alchemical classics and over thirty alchemical formulas, though this was only a small portion of the alchemical Dao transmitted by the Elder Lord.

Meanwhile, Li Chang Shou had also been disturbed for two weeks.

Jin Chan Zi sat in that small temple in the South Sea, calling out “Sea God, why not come out to meet?” every half hour.

Li Chang Shou simply treated him as an ‘alarm clock’, reminding himself of the swift passage of time.

The alchemical formulas he had organized at this time were all ones he felt could be put to use.

Among them, several formulas were specifically selected for Elder Wan Lin Yun, just waiting for himself to achieve Golden Immortal status and gather some heaven and earth spirit herbs to attempt refining them.

“Elder Brother Patriarch! Elder Brother Patriarch!”

In the Sea God Palace of the Celestial Court, Ao Yi hurriedly found Li Chang Shou’s paper avatar to report his recent ‘shocking discovery’!

“Elder Brother Patriarch, a young Daoist is sitting in a small temple and calls for their brother to meet him every half hour. I don’t know who he is.”

Li Chang Shou: …

“Really?”

Ao Yi’s eyes widened as he replied earnestly: “Really!”

“Hmm, he’s been there for half a month now,” Li Chang Shou shook his head and said, “This person is from the Western faction, he once revealed his presence in the East Sea during your grand wedding.”

Ao Yi couldn’t help but blink, feeling slightly embarrassed.

Li Chang Shou hummed softly, thoughts turning in his mind as he analyzed the pros and cons of the matter, quickly reaching a decision.

“Ao Yi, why don’t you go now and invite several Dragon Clan experts, preferably those who have your father king’s complete trust, to investigate this small temple?

If we can observe without being discovered, I’ll try to draw out his words, see if we can learn what moves the Western side might make next;

If we startle him and he leaves, we lose nothing either.”

“Yes, I’ll go send word to Father King right away!”

Ao Yi hurriedly agreed and quickly left the main hall where Li Chang Shou was.

At this time, in the Dragon Clan’s eyes, Second Prince Ao Yi had become overly close to him as Sea God, which could easily make them think that he had been manipulating Ao Yi…

Though he had to admit, there was indeed some element of manipulation involved.

Therefore, having just Ao Yi as a ‘witness’ was no longer quite appropriate; they needed several more ‘witnesses’ to be more convincing.

Half an hour later, Ao Yi returned to report that everything had been arranged.

Two elder dragons from the East Sea Dragon Palace used Ao Yi’s deity statue to reveal the temple’s situation to the East Sea Dragon King and various Dragon Clan ministers.

Jin Chan remained unaware.

Li Chang Shou’s paper avatar, wearing the skin of an old immortal, also hurried from An Shui City to that small temple, emerging from the back courtyard in front of the Dragon Clan.

Jin Chan Zi’s eyes brightened as he sat before the deity statue, letting out a cold laugh before saying calmly, “The Sea God is truly busy with many affairs, making this poor Daoist wait so long.”

Li Chang Shou walked in holding a whisk, slightly frowning, “Who might fellow Daoist be? Why disturb my cultivation?”

“Oh?” Jin Chan Zi stood up, his refined face showing some enlightenment, “So the Sea God was cultivating, then this poor Daoist has indeed disturbed you.”

Li Chang Shou advanced by retreating, smiling, “If fellow Daoist has no business, please take your leave.”

“Does the Sea God know where I come from?”

The words ‘Great Tang of the Eastern Lands’ nearly slipped out!

Li Chang Shou shook his head slightly, saying, “I do not know.”

“This poor Daoist came today on orders to discuss a matter with the Sea God,” Jin Chan revealed a slight smile, raising his hand to take out a purple-gold treasure pearl.

With a flash of light, the pearl enveloped both their forms within a barrier.

Seeing this, Li Chang Shou actively stepped back two paces, exiting the barrier.

Jin Chan Zi frowned, “What does fellow Daoist mean by this? What we have to discuss is of great importance and requires protection against eavesdroppers.”

“Fellow Daoists should take their leave,” Li Chang Shou said with a serious expression, “We of the Human Teaching always conduct affairs openly and honestly, such secretiveness does not align with my great Dao.”

Jin Chan Zi stared at Li Chang Shou, while Li Chang Shou’s gaze remained open and forthright, without the slightest ‘shyness’.

This was a contest of face.

Today’s Jin Chan Zi still retained some inerasable arrogance, and he soon admitted defeat…

“Very well,” Jin Chan Zi said calmly, “This is no longer any secret, all parties already understand in their hearts.

Sea God, let’s speak frankly.

This poor Daoist came here firstly to apologize, we had many offenses before, not knowing the Sea God’s background was so profound.

Secondly, to discuss the Dragon Clan matter.”

Li Chang Shou suddenly said: “Is it your Western faction’s custom to come apologize empty-handed?”

Jin Chan Zi hadn’t expected Li Chang Shou to suddenly bring this up, and his rhythm was immediately disrupted.

Shou’s live tactics lesson — [Shift the Focus, Create Confusion].

“Of course not,” Jin Chan Zi smiled, “As long as we reach an agreement today, a generous gift will be delivered tomorrow.”

Li Chang Shou chuckled, “So according to fellow Daoist’s meaning, if we can’t reach an agreement today, then the apology gift is void?”

“That’s not it, we don’t wish to be enemies with fellow Daoists…”

“Very well, speak of the second matter then, how do you wish to discuss with me, and discuss what?”

Jin Chan Zi hadn’t noticed that he had unconsciously lost the initiative in the conversation.

[Seize the Initiative, Test the Waters]

This Jin Chan Zi smiled and said: “The Dragon Clan has four sea dragon palaces, we’ll take the West and South, and fellow Daoists will take the East and North, how about that?”

Li Chang Shou was also amused inside – this Jin Chan Zi spoke such words directly.

Time to proceed to the third step — [Play the Fool, Switch Positions, Advance by Retreating].

Li Chang Shou said: “Fellow Daoist seems to be mistaken, what would I want dragon palaces for?”

Jin Chan Zi pondered for a moment, his voice lowering somewhat.

He said: “This poor Daoist speaks not of the Sea God but of the Celestial Court behind fellow Daoist.

The Human Teaching wishes to prosper the Celestial Court, we also wish to prosper the Western Continent. The Dragon Clan is aging yet unwilling to fade into obscurity, their foundation incredibly deep – our two factions can naturally divide and consume them.”

“Enough!”

Li Chang Shou suddenly shouted, showing an angry expression, scolding: “Fellow Daoist, who exactly are you? Why speak such mad words here!”

“I am…”

“Someone from the West?” Li Chang Shou snorted coldly, “I knew you would say this!

Fellow Daoist, your framing trick is far too superficial!

The Western faction and our Three Teachings are all great teachings, with transcendent existences. Even if the West were to plot, they would all be indirect moves, mindful of the various Patriarchs’ faces!

How could they send someone to speak of such matters directly with me? And even talk about dividing and consuming?

I advise fellow Daoists to be virtuous, do not provoke conflict between our Teaching and the West!”

Jin Chan Zi quickly reacted, saying firmly: “Sea God, why would I need to deceive about this matter?”

“The world is treacherous, hearts unfathomable! Who can say for certain about worldly affairs?”

Li Chang Shou shook his head, “If fellow Daoist cannot convince me that you are truly from the West and can fully represent the West, then don’t blame me for being discourteous today.

I won’t see you out!”

Jin Chan Zi was completely stunned, staring at Li Chang Shou’s elderly immortal face, saying softly: “Then according to the Sea God’s view, how should I prove it?”

“Very simple, let the Heavenly Dao verify – make a great Dao oath proving you can represent the West.”

“Just an oath? Sea God, please wait.

Heavenly Dao above, if I, Jin Chan, am not here today on the commission of the Western Teaching’s Vice Patriarch to discuss the Dragon Clan matter with the Sea God!

If half a word I speak is false, may I suffer the Heavenly Dao’s divine thunder punishment!”

As Jin Chan Zi’s words fell, he felt slightly that something was amiss in his heart…

While overhead came the rumble of thunder, the power of the Heavenly Dao came and went swiftly, accepting this oath.

Li Chang Shou slowly relaxed at this time, inwardly giving Jin Chan Zi a thumbs up: “So you truly are from the Western Teaching.”

Jin Chan Zi smiled and said: “Now that fellow Daoist believes me, we should have a proper discussion. Fellow Daoists may state your conditions.”

“I have no conditions,” Li Chang Shou smiled and said, “This matter needs no discussion, I am completely different from fellow Daoist.

My interference in Dragon Clan affairs started only because the Sea God Teaching has a portion of merit from Dragon Clan incense, and I am the Patriarch of the Sea God Teaching.

Fellow Daoist, please take your leave.”

Jin Chan Zi was stunned, feeling his waist ache from the sudden shift.