Eternal Sacred King Chapter 254 to 263
Chapter 254: Extremely Strong
The crowd dispersed gradually as the old man slowly closed his folding fan and hid the wooden block in his sleeves.
As everyone intersected, Su Zimo blinked and the old man disappeared by the time he looked back!
He frowned and pondered for a while before heading back to his residence.
Right after Su Zimo left Yongxing City, the storyteller popped out of nowhere and wobbled towards a deserted corner.
Lin Xuanji stood there, bored.
When he saw the old man approaching, Lin Xuanji hurried forth and whispered expectantly, “How was it, old man? Did you manage to see anything?”
“No. The fate of that lad has been changed and the trajectory is completely messed up,” The old man shook his head.
Lin Xuanji asked again, “What about that black dog? Can you tell what race it is?”
“That shouldn’t be a dog,” The old man frowned.
“No shit! I know it isn’t a dog too!”
Lin Xuanji rolled his eyes. “Old man, even with your experience, you can’t tell its origins?”
The old man narrowed his eyes in deep thought before shaking his head. “I can’t think of anything, but that black dog is truly not simple. I can sense a unique and pure aura emanating from it.”
“What kind of aura?”
“The aura of slaughter!”
The old man said, “Although you lost the chance to nurture a divine dragon this time round, if you manage to get your hands on that black dog, you will probably not do too badly in the future.”
Lin Xuanji rubbed his chin, his eyes darting around as he made up his mind.
The old man seemed to have thought of something. Frowning in thought, he murmured, “That girl...”
...
Along the way, Su Zimo could sense the little girl following him.
After a long time, when he arrived at his rented residence, Su Zimo suddenly stopped in his tracks and turned back.
The little girl was caught off guard as a look of panic flashed in her eyes.
Su Zimo strode towards the little girl.
She seemed a little fearful and wanted to retreat, but held strong.
“Why are you following me?” Su Zimo approached and asked softly.
“It’s the first time someone gave me clothes to wear,” The little girl blinked her big, bright eyes and said timidly.
Su Zimo’s heart softened. “You have no place to go?”
The little girl nodded.
“Alright. From today onwards, you can stay here.”
Pointing to the residence behind him, Su Zimo smiled and said, “However, I’ve only rented it for a year so I can only guarantee a year of accommodation for you.”
“Thank you,” A smile finally appeared on the little girl’s face.
Su Zimo led the little girl inside and asked casually, “I’m Su Zimo. What’s your name?”
“Nian Qi,” Less guarded towards Su Zimo, the little girl’s voice sounded livelier as well.
The house was located in the south and faced the north with its back towards Jishui River. Quite large, it had many rooms and Nian Qi chose a random one to stay in.
Su Zimo left the house to buy some clothes for Nian Qi before bringing some food and placing it in front of her room.
After that was done, he came to the courtyard and took out a wooden block from his storage bag.
Since he wanted to open a weapon workshop, he had to give it a name.
Looking at Night Spirit patrolling the courtyard, Su Zimo smiled and muttered to himself, “Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop then.”
Using his finger like a sword, he inscribed the four words on the wooden block.
Right then, with a creak, the door to the room behind him opened.
Turning back, Su Zimo saw a fair-skinned young girl standing at the entrance. Slim and elegant, her features were exquisite and her eyes were clear as water. Although she was still young, she was already extremely pretty.
Su Zimo was momentarily stunned as well.
After washing the dirt away from her face, Nian Qi seemed to have changed into another person.
However, for some reason, her hair was still yellowed and curled up like withered grass and tree branches. There was no luster and it seemed out of place against her smooth skin.
Su Zimo did not think too much about it, merely assuming that it was because Nian Qi’s body was weak after suffering for years outside.
It should return to normal after she recuperated for a year or so.
“Sir, what are you doing?”
Nian Qi walked over and looked at the wooden block in Su Zimo’s hand, asking softly, “Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop... are you planning on opening a weapon workshop here, sir?”
“That’s right,” Su Zimo nodded.
Nian Qi moved her lips, as if wanting to say something.
“Speak your mind,” Su Zimo chuckled.
“Even though I don’t know how to forge weapons, I’ve been wandering around the city all these years. The place you’re at now is suitable for living but it’s not suitable for opening a weapon workshop. Nobody is going to come here at all.”
Cultivators familiar with the capital would definitely head to Yongxing City for spirit weapon customization. After all, all the weapon workshops of the capital were located there.
As for cultivators who were not familiar with the capital, they would also head to Yongxing City if they asked around.
From Nian Qi’s point of view, Su Zimo would have no customers at all if he were to open a weapon workshop here.
Unworried, Su Zimo smiled and said, “My weapon workshop is different from the rest, don’t worry.”
Nian Qi nodded, not fully understanding.
Su Zimo pointed to a chair nearby. “Take a seat and hold this stone. Let me have a look.”
On the table was a stone the size of a baby’s fist – it was a spirit testing stone that Su Zimo had just purchased.
Nian Qi reached out and held the spirit testing stone.
After a moment, the spirit testing stone remained unchanged.
Su Zimo sighed internally.
He had initially held hope that Nian Qi might have a spirit root and could enter cultivation.
However, he knew that the possibility of that was low.
There were many Golden Cores and even Nascent Souls in the capital. If Nian Qi had a spirit root, they would have long taken her away under their wings.
Now that there were no changes to the spirit testing stone, Su Zimo knew that Nian Qi was just like him – an ordinary person without a spirit root.
Seemingly realized something, Nian Qi said hurriedly, “Sir, even though I don’t have a spirit root, I am extremely strong and I can help you do many things. P-Please don’t chase me away.”
“It’s alright.”
Su Zimo shook his head and changed the topic, afraid that Nian Qi might overthink things. “You said that you are extremely strong? How strong?”
“Super, duper, strong.”
Nian Qi blinked her eyes and said, “I didn’t dare show it earlier because I was afraid others might lock me up like they do to monsters.”
Su Zimo could not help but laugh.
To him, Nian Qi was just trying to boast so that she would not be chased away.
How strong could a little girl with such a slender body be?
Su Zimo’s heart stirred and he wanted to tease Nian Qi. As such, he took out the Mystic Gold Silk Armor from his storage bag and placed it on the table gently. “This is a silk armor. Can you pick it up?”
“Of course!”
Nian Qi nodded confidently and tugged on the edge of the Mystic Gold Silk Armor with one hand, lifting it up.
It did not budge an inch at all!
“Eh?”
Nian Qi was stunned.
Su Zimo chuckled internally but remained expressionless on the surface.
Standing up, Nian Qi frowned and looked at the Mystic Gold Silk Armor in disbelief before using her other hand as well.
Sensing that Nian Qi was going to continue trying, Su Zimo waved it off, afraid that the joke would go too far. “It’s alright. This Mystic Gold Silk Armor actually weighs...”
Su Zimo’s voice stopped abruptly as he jolted from his seat and watched with widened eyes in disbelief.
Nian Qi’s arms trembled and her cheeks were slightly flushed, clearly at the limits of her strength. However, the Mystic Gold Silk Armor was truly lifted from the table!
Chapter 255: Abnormal
While Su Zimo took out the Mystic Gold Silk Armor with a single hand in a relaxed manner such that it seemed light, that inner vest weighed a full 5 tons!
Back then, Su Zimo could only lift the Mystic Gold Silk Armor after he was at lesser mastery of the Marrow Cleansing section.
But now, a little girl around 15 years old was able to do it?
The way Su Zimo looked at Nian Qi changed gradually.
This was no longer mere strength.
Based on the way Nian Qi exerted her strength, if she were to learn some fighting techniques, she could even kill early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators!
Su Zimo’s first thought was that Nian Qi must have cultivated some sort of powerful body tempering technique.
But right after, he denied that guess.
All the body tempering techniques of the human race were built on the foundation of one possessing a spirit root and cultivating spirit qi.
However, there was no trace of spirit qi in Nian Qi’s body at all.
“Strange. Could there truly be people born with such godly strength?”
Su Zimo was puzzled.
After some thought, Su Zimo took out a thin book from his storage bag and passed it over to Nian Qi. “This is a Qi Condensation Manual. Try to cultivate with it. If you have anything you’re unsure of, feel free to ask me at any time.”
Even though Nian Qi did not have a spirit root, Su Zimo wanted her to give it a shot still.
Nian Qi nodded.
Rising, Su Zimo hung the wooden board with the words ‘Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’ above the beam of his entrance.
“Sir, if you need anything, just instruct me.”
Nian Qi was very sensible and did not want to stay for free like a leech – she wanted to contribute as well.
Noticing Nian Qi’s intentions, Su Zimo pondered for a moment. “Greet any customers that come and let me know about their demands.”
“What about the price?” Nian Qi asked.
“For now, we’re only taking orders for customized spirit weapons. The price is 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones and one set of materials.”
“Ah?
Nian Qi’s eyes widened.
After staying in the capital for so long, she was very familiar with Yongxing City.
The price that Su Zimo set was the lowest for middle-grade spirit weapons.
Most importantly, he only required one set of materials.
Normally, one would have to prepare three sets of materials for middle-grade spirit weapons; some weapon workshops even asked for four!
Just as the disciples of True Fire Sect mentioned, no Qi Refinement Warrior could guarantee a 100% success rate of spirit gathering. That was why True Fire Weapon Workshop required three sets of materials from the customers themselves just in case.
For superior-grade spirit weapons, the failure rate was even higher so customers would have to prepare ten sets.
However, Su Zimo did not have to worry about those things.
That was because the most difficult step of weapon refinement, spirit gathering, was nothing to him at all.
With his spirit perception, Su Zimo could achieve a 100% success rate in spirit gathering!
Right now, the only obstacle Su Zimo had was in terms of weapon tempering.
How to purge away more impurities such that the spirit weapons could be sturdier and withstand more spirit patterns – that was what Su Zimo needed to practice.
“Sir, even though I don’t know about weapon refinement, I’ve heard that it’s impossible to achieve a 100% success rate. If you only collect one set of materials and you fail, we’ll have to purchase the materials on our own thereafter. That’s a waste of time and effort and a loss for us.”
Nian Qi persuaded Su Zimo warily.
“It’s fine, just do as I say,” Su Zimo smiled.
...
In the following month, everything about Su Zimo began to get on track.
From morning till noon, Su Zimo cultivated Ethereal Foundation Establishment to raise his cultivation realm.
After that battle at Dongling Valley and a long journey to escape, Su Zimo’s cultivation realm had started to shift and within half a year, he would be able to reach late-stage Foundation Establishment!
In the afternoon, his entire focus was on weapon refinement.
Recalling the projection image of Dao Lord Extreme Fire, he would look through the ancient tempering manual while refining weapons to try and apply his learning.
Su Zimo was already able to refine inferior-grade spirit weapons to begin with. After a month, he made swift breakthroughs at the step of tempering and he was able to refine middle-grade spirit weapons!
However, he still required more practice to remove further impurities if he wanted to forge superior-grade spirit weapons with three spirit patterns.
That was completely based on hard work and repeated practice – there were no shortcuts available.
At night, Su Zimo cultivated The Mystic Classic of the Twelve Demon Kings of the Great Wilderness, trying his best to absorb the essence energy of the dragon egg into his body completely.
It was the same for Night Spirit.
Even though it seemed like it was lying on Su Zimo’s feet motionlessly, it was actually trying its best to absorb the essence energy of the dragon egg.
Night Spirit’s body was growing rapidly at a pace clearly faster than before!
A month later, Su Zimo could no longer contain it in his embrace.
The surface of Night Spirit’s body became rougher and black, tough protective armor began to grow on its body like the scales of the divine dragon!
An extremely sharp spike grew out of the tip of Night Spirit’s tail that was not weaker than its claws!
Night Spirit seemed to turn even more extraordinary, emitting a ferocious glint in its eyes from time to time such that even Su Zimo would feel a chill from it.
During this period of time, Nian Qi was the one who experienced the greatest changes!
After cultivating the Qi Condensation Manual, she could truly sense spirit qi!
In less than two hours, Nian Qi was already at Level 1 Qi Condensation!
That speed was even comparable to Su Zimo in the past.
Innate godly strength and the ability to sense spirit qi without a spirit root... everything about Nian Qi was mysterious and inexplicable.
For the month since the weapon workshop opened, no cultivators visited at all and Nian Qi was extremely worried.
However, Su Zimo was nonchalant about it, continuing with his weapon refinement, immortality and demonic cultivation on a daily basis.
This day, there was a knock on the entrance of the residence for the first time.
Su Zimo opened his eyes and heaved a sigh of relief.
While he appeared calm on the surface for the past month, he was a little anxious internally.
There weren’t many spirit stones left in his storage bag. If there were still no customers, he would not be able to sustain his expenditure of spirit stones for his daily cultivation.
Nian Qi had already dashed out excitedly. Opening the door, she smiled. “Welcome to Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop. Fellow Daoist, please enter.”
To begin with, Nian Qi was already extremely beautiful. Now that she was smiling sweetly, it was even more captivating.
The person at the door was dumbfounded for a moment.
Blinking her eyes, Nian Qi probed, “Fellow Daoist, are you here to customize a spirit weapon?”
“Ah?
The person at the door regained his senses gradually. He lowered his head and frowned, opening his palm to divine while muttering, “Could I have gone to the wrong place? Why is it a girl?”
Right then, Su Zimo came out of his room. When he saw the person at the entrance, he could not help but feel disappointed.
The visitor was dressed in gray robes and was slightly rotund. With a pale, beardless fan and a folding fan in his hands, the visitor was not a customer for customizing spirit weapons – it was Lin Xuanji.
“Nian Qi, come on back.”
Su Zimo said.
Upon hearing Su Zimo’s voice, Lin Xuanji’s eyes lit up as he strode into the house while greeting warmly, “Brother Zimo, it’s been a long time!”
Su Zimo felt a chill run down his spine.
Prior to this, Lin Xuanji wanted to tear him apart – since when did he become so friendly?!
There must be something going on when things occur out of the ordinary!
Chapter 256: Bitten to Death
After Lin Xuanji entered the courtyard, a black shadow flashed behind him.
A menacing-looking demon beast stood at the entrance of the residence. With bloodshot eyes, its entire body was covered in long, black fur and its limbs were strong. Tall and mighty, it exuded a savage and ferocious aura!
A Foundation Establishment spirit demon, an ancient remnant beast, Bane Spirit Hound!
The Bane Spirit Hound was extremely vicious and anyone targeted by it would mostly be hunted to a life and death situation.
Even in the ancient era, there were few demon beasts and cultivators who were willing to provoke it.
The sudden sight of such a demon beast had Nian Qi exclaiming as she stumbled back instinctively.
“Roar!”
Her reaction attracted the attention of the Bane Spirit Hound.
It stuck its head out and glared at Nian Qi with its bloodshot eyes, opening its mouth slightly as it snarled deeply.
Su Zimo furrowed his brows slightly.
Night Spirit, who was initially lying by Su Zimo’s feet, opened its eyes and took a cold glance at the Bane Spirit Hound before closing its eyes to rest.
Lin Xuanji turned his head and hollered.
The Bane Spirit Hound calmed down gradually.
With a light cough, Lin Xuanji said, “This is a spirit demon I just found. Not bad, huh?”
Su Zimo smiled but did not say anything.
“This girl is not bad either. Your name is Nian Qi, right?” Lin Xuanji pointed at Nian Qi who was behind Su Zimo and continued.
Su Zimo remained silent, looking at Lin Xuanji with a faint smile.
Lin Xuanji clearly wanted something but was beating around the bush.
A while later, Lin Xuanji finally couldn’t take it anymore and revealed his intentions, looking at Night Spirit and saying under a pretense of surprise, “My, Night Spirit has grown so much! I almost couldn’t recognize it!”
Su Zimo smiled. “Brother Lin, if you have anything, you can get right to the point.”
“It’s nothing much as well. Look at how much Night Spirit has grown. I’m just here to find a playmate for him,” Lin Xuanji beckoned to the Bane Spirit Hound behind him. “See, my spirit demon has quite an extraordinary demeanor. It’s a female as well, what a good fit for Night Spirit!”
When Nian Qi heard that, she blushed and spat softly.
Su Zimo finally understood what Lin Xuanji was up to.
He was trying to get Night Spirit by making use of lust this time round...
Lin Xuanji brought the Bane Spirit Hound in front of him and pointed in Night Spirit’s direction. “Go, get along with it.”
When Su Zimo saw this, he did not stop them.
Night Spirit’s body was much smaller than the Bane Spirit Hound.
The Bane Spirit Hound walked before Night Spirit and looked down, surveying Night Spirit from above. It let out a deep growl, warning Night Spirit to not behave rashly!
Following that, the Bane Spirit Hound lowered its head and sniffed Night Spirit’s body.
Right then, Night Spirit suddenly opened its eyes!
A cold light flashed.
Night Spirit stuck out a pair of sharp claws and dug it into the Bane Spirit Hound’s body. At the same time, it opened its mouth and bit the Bane Spirit Hound on the throat with lightning speed!
The courtyard suddenly fell silent.
Snap!
The sound of bones cracking could be heard.
The Bane Spirit Hound’s throat was snapped by Night Spirit’s bite as fresh blood gushed out, dying the ground red.
The entire process happened too quickly.
It wasn’t just the Bane Spirit Hound – even Su Zimo and Lin Xuanji could not react in time.
The Bane Spirit Hound’s body twitched but it was powerless to react. Its eyes dimmed as its life drained away rapidly – it clearly had no chance of surviving.
This was a flawless hunt!
Night Spirit’s attack did not contain any extra movements. Clean and precise, even the timing to strike was immaculate to the dot!
That was an ancient remnant beast!
However, it was bitten to death just like that. Who could believe it unless they witnessed it personally?
“Fu*k!””
Lin Xuanji jumped up.
In order to get his hands on Night Spirit, Lin Xuanji racked his brains and spent a lot of effort to get his hands on that Bane Spirit Hound.
Who would have thought that it would be bitten to death by Night Spirit the moment it entered...
At that moment, Lin Xuanji even had suicidal thoughts.
“You evil dog! I... I-I...!”
Lin Xuanji was so angry that he was shivering from head to toe, waving that folding fan as he pointed at Night Spirit’s nose and was about to curse.
Night Spirit raised its head and bit Lin Xuanji’s folding fan once more, pulling it towards the back.
Caught off guard, the folding fan nearly slipped out of Lin Xuanji’s hand.
“Hey! Y-You evil dog! Let go!”
Lin Xuanji was extremely furious.
Of all things, Night Spirit was always biting that folding fan, trying to tug it away.
Lin Xuanji could lose everything except that folding fan.
Right then, a voice sounded from the entrance of the residence.
“Excuse me, can we order customized middle-grade spirit weapons here?”
A Foundation Establishment Cultivator stood at the entrance, peeking in with his head and asking with a trace of doubt.
“Of course.”
Nian Qi reacted instantly and hurried forward. She smiled and said, “Fellow Daoist, please enter.”
Su Zimo patted Night Spirit.
It released its grip and turned to leave, no longer bothered with Lin Xuanji. Sprawling on the ground nearby, its closed its eyes lazily and cultivated.
Lin Xuanji heaved a sigh of relief.
“I couldn’t tell at all, but you even know how to refine weapons?”
Lin Xuanji glanced askance at Su Zimo.
Su Zimo smiled without replying.
Nian Qi asked, “How do we address you, fellow Daoist?”
“Tan Fei.”
“What sort of a middle-grade spirit weapon are you looking to order?” Nian Qi asked again.
Tan Fei looked a little uneasy and replied, “I don’t have much materials and I only have two sets. I wonder if...”
“It’s fine, we just need one set,” Nian Qi said with a smile.
“Huh?”
“Ah?
Both Tan Fei and Lin Xuanji were stunned with agape mouths, unable to react for a moment.
“A set... a single set of materials?” Tan Fei looked at Nian Qi and asked once more, seemingly in disbelief.
Nian Qi hesitated as well, glancing over at Su Zimo.
When she saw Su Zimo nodding, she nodded her head with confidence. “That’s right, we only require one set of materials!”
“Hey, do you really know how to refine weapons?” Lin Xuanji leaned in and asked in a low voice.
Su Zimo chuckled. “Somewhat.”
“Somewhat your ass!”
Lin Xuanji pursed his lips. “From the ancient times till now, I’ve never heard of any Weapon Refinement Master who would dare to customize spirit weapons for others with just one set of materials!”
Su Zimo replied, “You’ll see it soon.”
Lin Xuanji: “...”
Tan Fei asked cautiously, “What about the price? If it’s too expensive, I can’t afford it.”
“It isn’t, it’s just 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones,” Nian Qi stated the price as Su Zimo had originally set.
“Just 3,000? No variations?” Tan Fei could not believe it.
Coughing gently, he continued, “I better state my specifications first. I want to customize a saber without a handle. The blade should be two feet long with a width two fingers wide. It should weigh around 100 kilograms...”
After saying a lot, Tan Fei took a deep breath and asked embarrassedly, “Does that still cost 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones only?”
To be fair, he had already gone to all the weapon workshops in the capital before coming here.
When they heard that he only had two sets of materials prepared, none of the weapon workshops were prepared to take his business.
Furthermore, according to his specifications, that middle-grade spirit weapon should cost at least 4,000 middle-grade spirit stones!
If not for that, Tan Fei would not have found this place otherwise.
“Just 3,000.”
Nian Qi was certain this time round, but Tan Fei was the one who was hesitant.
With just a single set of materials and at such a low price, he could not feel at ease for a deal that seemed so good.
Lin Xuanji grinned as he watched the fun, waiting for Su Zimo to make a fool of himself.
Chapter 257: Gaining Reputation
Tan Fei was undecided for a long time.
“I know that you have your concerns.”
Right then, Su Zimo spoke, “How about this? Give me your materials first. If I manage to refine the spirit weapon successfully, you can pay me the 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones. If I fail, tell me how much spirit stones your materials cost and I’ll compensate you.”
When he heard that, Tan Fei’s eyes lit up.
He asked hurriedly, “How many days do I have to wait?”
Su Zimo replied calmly, “There’s no need. Just wait here. That middle-grade spirit weapon will be ready soon.”
“Ah?
Tan Fei was stunned.
Lin Xuanji was stunned as well.
How much confidence did Su Zimo have to say something like that?
“Alright then. The materials required for the spirit weapon are all in this storage bag,” Tan Fei decided to give this place a shot.
Su Zimo took over the storage bag and looked inside. Instantly, he knew what needed to be done.
He did not return to his room and instead moved out his Weapon Tripod. He was going to refine that middle-grade spirit weapon in front of the three of them right in that courtyard!
For this first deal of business, he had to resort to extreme methods to deal with the situation so that he could attract more cultivators to patronize!
Swoosh!
A Level 3 Spirit Fire floated in his palm as he began to warm the Weapon Tripod.
When he saw the scarlet color of the Level 3 Spirit Fire, Tan Fei’s confidence grew.
Warming, smelting, forging...
Even though the three of them were not Weapon Refinement Masters, they could tell that Su Zimo’s technique was not rusty at all, as though he had practiced countless times.
When they saw Su Zimo refining the weapon, they could not help but feel a sense of amazement!
“He’s got some skills,” Lin Xuanji mumbled.
Nian Qi clenched her fists subconsciously – she was even more nervous than Su Zimo was!
Fourth step, tempering.
A series of clanging sounds came from the Weapon Tripod, crisp and clean.
Su Zimo did not follow the technique of the ancient tempering manual entirely. Instead, he combined it with the projection image left by Dao Lord Extreme Fire and formulated a Thousand Tempered Finger technique unique to him.
Su Zimo was still in the midst of exploring and mastering this Thousand Tempered Finger technique.
While the current state of purging impurities was still not ideal, it was much better than before and he could create a weapon that could withstand two spirit patterns.
Before long, smelting was over.
Fifth step, spirit gathering.
Even though Lin Xuanji and the other two did not know how to refine weapons, they knew that spirit gathering was the most critical step.
Whether a middle-grade spirit weapon could be forged depended on whether two spirit patterns could be condensed.
The three of them watched intently with bated breaths.
But the next moment, Su Zimo did something that gave them a fright.
Suddenly, Su Zimo put away the Weapon Tripod and began to condense spirit patterns without the protection of a Weapon Tripod!
“Fu*k!””
Lin Xuanji was the first to react as he retreated violently.
In truth, given his cultivation realm, even if the spirit gathering failed and the weapon exploded, it wouldn’t harm him.
However, it would be embarrassing to be left in a sorry state covered in dirt.
Tan Fei was stunned for a moment and fled right after as well.
He ran to the front door before turning back and watched the situation from afar as he hid behind the door.
Nian Qi’s feet moved a little.
She wanted to escape as well, but she was embarrassed that Su Zimo might look bad. As such, she had no choice but to stay where she was.
Whoosh!
Right then, a bright light shone in front of Su Zimo!
A spirit pattern formed on the blade of the weapon!
“The first spirit pattern was condensed successfully?”
Lin Xuanji stared with widened eyes and his jaws were almost dropping to the ground. He thought to himself, “That works?”
Time passed slowly, as if it was trawling.
Su Zimo was attempting to condense the second spirit pattern the entire time. Sometimes, he would stop all of a sudden before repeating the condensation process.
Even though the second spirit pattern had yet to be condensed, the situation that the three of them were worried about did not happen either.
All of a sudden!
Just as the three of them were letting their imaginations run wild, another flash of light appeared in the courtyard.
The second spirit pattern was condensed!
Tan Fei was overjoyed and leaped over.
Letting out a breath of turbid air, Su Zimo soaked the saber in cold water to quench it into shape!
Accepting the saber with both hands, Tan Fei loved it more the more he looked at it.
It was exactly as he had specified. With a dark blade that was streamlined, it was sharp and could slice metal like mud.
“Fellow Daoist, this is the payment. Please accept it.”
Tan Fei took out a storage bag and handed it to Su Zimo.
Opening it, Su Zimo was stunned for a moment. “3,000 middle-grade spirit stones is fine. You’ve given me too much.”
“It’s only right.”
Tan Fei replied hurriedly, “You’ve only taken a single set of materials to create this middle-grade spirit weapon. Indirectly, that saved me quite a bit of spirit stones for the materials. This is what you deserve.”
Su Zimo did not decline further and accepted it.
Patting his chest, Tan Fei declared, “Fellow Daoist, don’t worry. Someone with your skills shouldn’t be buried. I’ll definitely help to promote you upon returning.”
Su Zimo smiled in acknowledgment. “Thank you for that.”
Tan Fei left in high spirits, mumbling before he left, “Godly skills! What godly skills!”
Lin Xuanji remarked with lingering fear, “No matter what, you’re the first person who dares to remove the Weapon Tripod while attempting spirit gathering. What an eye-opener.”
Su Zimo turned to Nian Qi. “Let’s set another rule for the weapon workshop. All weapon refinements are to be done in the afternoon. Anyone who comes at any other time will not be entertained!”
“I don’t think that’s very suitable.”
Nian Qi hesitated. “After all, most cultivators will be visiting for the first time. They won’t know of such rules.”
“It’s fine, they’ll know after a few times.”
Su Zimo smiled and continued, “We’re going to have many more rules in the future...”
In truth, be it in terms of price or materials required, Su Zimo’s weapon workshop was far superior than any other out there!
The only thing he lacked was an opportunity.
However, the opportunity had arrived – Tan Fei.
Su Zimo believed that it wouldn’t be long before word of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop spread to every corner of the capital. Many cultivators will know about them and their reputation would skyrocket!
In the capital, there were people refining weapons daily.
In the weapon refinement scene of the capital, things were stagnant as well.
Su Zimo’s performance today was like a stone tossed into a lake, causing a series of ripples to spread out on the calm surface waters of the capital.
“Have you heard? There’s a new weapon workshop beside Jishui River that has many strange rules.”
“Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop? Yeah, I heard of it.”
“It’s said that the Weapon Refinement Master is called Mo Ling[1] has a weird temperament and he only forges weapons in the afternoon. Furthermore, you can get your hands on your weapon the same day you order it.”
“Most importantly, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop only requires a single set of materials and it only costs 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones! That’s truly a weapon workshop of conscience.”
“I plan on checking it out tomorrow.”
“Why don’t we go together? Count me in.”
It was as if Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop had popped up overnight and its influence was spreading rapidly, turning into a hot topic of discussion between cultivators.
[1] As you can guess, Spirit is pronounced as Ling. However, it’s inconvenient to name the weapon workshop as Mo Ling because Su Zimo named it using his and Night Spirit’s name
Chapter 258: Too Willful
News of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop spread quickly and arrived in Yongxing City before long, creating quite a stir.
No cultivator wouldn’t be tempted at the low price and single set of materials required.
Initially, there were still cultivators who did not believe in it and were used to customizing their spirit weapons in Yongxing City.
However, as time passed, the reputation of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop grew and so did its influence.
Some cultivators would rather queue and wait at Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop rather than spend additional materials and money at Yongxing City.
“What? A single set of materials? And at such a low price?”
“Hmph! Isn’t he afraid of losing money?”
“What sect is this Mo Ling guy from? How old is he?”
All the cultivators in the capital thought that the Weapon Refinement Master of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’s name was Mo Ling.
“I’m not sure. I heard that the cultivator receiving everyone is a little girl around 15 years old. I haven’t heard of anyone who has seen how Mo Ling looks like.”
“Yes, there are different rumors about Mo Ling’s appearance and age. Some say that he’s a weak scholar, some say that he has the demeanor of a sage and there are even those that say he’s a venerable old man. I don’t think any of them are accurate. However, they say that the little girl’s extremely pretty and there’s also a fierce black dog in the residence.”
The various weapon workshops were discussing it as well.
Back hall of True Fire Weapon Workshop.
An old man in red robes sat on a chair, listening to the shopkeeper explain the situation about Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop as he sipped tea with a calm expression.
“Elder Zhang, because of that Mo Ling, the number of orders for customized middle-grade spirit weapons from our weapon workshop has clearly decreased. What do you think...” Ge Yong asked in a testing manner.
Even though Ge Yong was the shopkeeper of True Fire Weapon Workshop, he was only a Foundation Establishment Cultivator who was proficient in the way of the merchants.
Elder Zhang was the true pillar of support for True Fire Weapon Workshop.
He was an Advanced Weapon Refinement Master who was renowned in True Fire Sect as well.
Most of the cultivators who ordered superior-grade spirit weapons at True Fire Weapon Workshop came because of Elder Zhang’s reputation as well.
“A single set of materials and 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones?”
Elder Zhang shook his head and chuckled. “He’s asking for trouble. Even Advanced Weapon Refinement Masters would not dare to guarantee a 100% success rate for spirit gathering. Anyone who has a 50% success rate would already be considered as the top of Weapon Refinement Masters.”
“In order words, they would require at least two sets of materials if they want to earn that 3,000 middle-grade spirit stones. That person is acting so arrogantly. I dare guarantee that within half a year, this Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop will not be able to sustain and will close down.”
Ge Yong asked, “Should we just ignore him then?”
“Yes.”
Elder Zhang nodded. “The main stream of income for True Fire Weapon Workshop is through customizing superior-grade spirit weapons. Since that Mo Ling guy is only able to refine middle-grade spirit weapons, his impact on us is not considered too great.”
Pausing for a moment, a look of mockery flashed in Elder Zhang’s eyes as he sneered, “Let him perish on his own. I want to see how that guy ends up!”
...
Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’s business was improving by the day and there was an endless stream of cultivators daily.
Every day, Nian Qi would be the one greeting the cultivators.
Su Zimo did not show himself and merely stayed in his room, making use of the materials sent over to perfect his tempering techniques and enhance his skills.
As time passed, Su Zimo’s standard of weapon refinement improved steadily and intricately.
His tempering technique was also being perfected slowly.
The problem of Su Zimo and Nian Qi’s cultivating resources was also resolved with the considerable income of spirit stones daily.
Half a year passed by quickly.
The two men and one beast of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop gained a considerable amount of benefits.
With sufficient spirit stones, Su Zimo had successfully reached late-stage Foundation Establishment two months ago.
As for Nian Qi, she was at Level 7 Qi Condensation after just half a year’s worth of cultivation!
This cultivation speed was comparable to Su Zimo’s back then.
Night Spirit had grown a little more as well.
It was clear that the essence energy of the dragon egg had a significant impact on Night Spirit’s growth.
During this period of time, Lin Xuanji tried dozens of methods to try and get his hands on Night Spirit only to be covered in dirt and end up in failure each time.
After half a year, Lin Xuanji could finally take it no longer, bidding farewell and leaving.
This day, Su Zimo called Nian Qi over.
“Yes... I want to make some changes to Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’s rules.”
“What rules?”
Nian Qi was not surprised.
She was long used to it after half a year.
She dared to guarantee that Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop had the most and oddest rules in the entire capital.
However, its business was the best...
Su Zimo continued, “From tomorrow onwards, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop will no longer customize middle-grade spirit weapons. We’ll only take orders for superior-grade spirit weapons.”
“Ah?
Nian Qi’s little mouth opened slightly, her face full of shock and disbelief.
“W-We’re not customizing middle-grade spirit weapons anymore?
“Only superior-grade spirit weapons?”
After saying, even Nian Qi was shocked herself.
Su Zimo nodded. “That’s right. It’s still a single set of materials, but it’ll cost 3,000 superior-grade spirit stones.”
When she saw that Su Zimo was not joking about it, Nian Qi nodded instinctively.
By the time she reacted, Su Zimo had already turned to leave.
...
In the past half a year, every cultivator in the capital knew that the Weapon Refinement Master known as Mo Ling had an odd temperament and only forged weapons in the afternoon.
After six hours, no matter how many people were queuing outside, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop would close its doors...
This afternoon, a huge crowd of cultivators gathered in front of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop expectantly as usual.
Before long, with a creak, the door opened, revealing a beautiful face.
The cultivators who had been waiting for a long time outside were in high spirits, bouncing up from the spot one faster than the other.
However, when they arrived at the entrance, everyone stopped in their tracks and did not dare step past it!
There were too many rules for Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
Without the permission of the owner of the place, anyone who dared cross the entrance would be disqualified from ordering customized spirit weapons from Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop!
Initially, there were some cultivators who were discontented. Even though they did not dare to fight within the capital, they barged into the residence and created a fuss only to find themselves bitten half to death by a big, black dog...
“Miss Nian Qi, look, look! It’s me! I’m Yu Yingjun!”
“Miss Nian Qi, I’ve already been here for three consecutive days. It’s my turn this time, right?”
“Get lost! I’ve already camped here for an entire month!”
The crowd pushed around noisily, squeezing into a tight pack in front of the entrance. However, no one dared take a single step past it.
With a hesitant expression, Nian Qi paused for a moment before saying slowly, “Fellow Daoists, from today on, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop will no longer customize middle-grade spirit weapons...”
“Ow?”
“What?”
“No more customization?”
The crowd gradually calmed down and everyone was confused.
Nian Qi continued, “From now on, we’ll only customize superior-grade spirit weapons here. Yes... it’s still a single set of materials but the price will be at 3,000 superior-grade spirit stones.”
“Why?!”
“Miss Nian Qi, that’s not right! Why is he not customizing anymore? We’re already here!”
“That’s right! We want to see fellow Daoist Mo Ling and ask him about it in person!”
Many cultivators were indignant and protested loudly.
Nian Qi stuck out her tongue. “I forgot to tell you guys. Our young master is in a bad mood today and won’t be refining any weapons... you guys won’t be able to see him too. Please head back.”
With that, Nian Qi closed the door, leaving behind the rowdy crowd who did not recover for a long time.
A moment later, a cultivator trembled while pointing at the door and gritting his teeth. “This guy is way too willful!”
Chapter 259: Assassination
True Fire Weapon Workshop.
Elder Zhang sat in the back hall, frowning as he looked at the accounts book.
Ge Yong bowed his head and stood below with a fearful expression, not saying a word.
“Why are we getting more orders for middle-grade spirit weapons recently while the orders for superior-grade spirit weapons have dipped instead?” Elder Zhang asked in a deep voice.
Hesitating for a moment, Ge Yong replied, “It’s Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop...”
“Fufu.”
Before Ge Yong could finish, Elder Zhang scoffed lightly, “I told you, in less than half a year, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop is bound to close down. Seems like I was right.”
To Elder Zhang, the reason why True Fire Weapon Workshop gained more orders for middle-grade spirit weapons must be because Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop had closed down.
“Err... ”
Ge Yong looked awkward.
“Why? What’s wrong?” Elder Zhang could not help but frown and ask when he saw the odd expression on Ge Yong’s face.
Ge Yong answered honestly, “Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop did not close down. They merely changed to customizing superior-grade spirit weapons instead of middle-grade spirit weapons.”
“Hmm?”
Elder Zhang’s expression changed slightly as he asked, “Wasn’t Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop unable to customize superior-grade spirit weapons? Why are they suddenly able to do it?”
“I have no idea as well,” Ge Yong shook his head.
Pondering for a moment, Elder Zhang asked again, “What’s their asking price?”
Ge Yong replied, “3,000 superior-grade spirit stones.”
Enlightened, Elder Zhang scoffed coldly, “No wonder all our business has been stolen! They pushed the price so low! Pass down orders that from today on, the price for customizing superior-grade spirit weapons at True Fire Weapon Workshop will be at 3,000 superior-grade spirit stones as well!”
“This...”
Ge Yong hesitated.
“Why are you stuttering?”
Elder Zhang berated, “Just say whatever you want to say!”
Ge Yong cupped his fists. “Elder Zhang, pardon me for being blunt. Even if we lower our price to 3,000 superior-grade spirit stones, we won’t be able to compete against Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.”
“Why? You don’t believe in my weapon refinement skills?” Elder Zhang’s gaze turned fierce with a tinge of anger.
Ge Yong said softly, “Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop only requires a single set of materials to customize superior-grade spirit weapons as well.”
“What!”
Elder Zhang slammed the table and stood up. His expression changed drastically as disbelief filled his eyes.
“That’s impossible!” Elder Zhang kept shaking his head.
Even if he were to do it personally, he would need at least ten sets of materials to guarantee the refinement of a superior-grade spirit weapon.
However, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop only required a single set of materials?
While the difference between middle-grade and superior-grade spirit weapons was a single spirit pattern, that one pattern stumped most Weapon Refinement Masters.
An additional spirit pattern meant that the chances of failure for spirit gathering would increase immensely. How could someone guarantee a 100% success rate of refining superior-grade spirit weapons with just a single set of materials?
Ge Yong said with a bitter smile, “Elder Zhang, we can’t continue like this. The impact on our weapon workshop is too great.”
“What’s the background of this person? Have you investigated him?” Elder Zhang suddenly asked.
Ge Yong replied, “I’ve been investigating, but there’s no accurate news.”
“Shadow, come out!”
Elder Zhang ordered suddenly.
“Squeak, squeak!”
In the shadows behind him, a rat that was the height of half a man ran out. It was pitch-black and had cunningly cold eyes. As it squeaked, it bared its sharp teeth that were like knives!
Ge Yong was shocked.
This was a Foundation Establishment spirit demon, an ancient remnant beast, Shadow Rat. Elusive and mysterious, it was best at sneaking and specialized in assassinations!
“Shadow, infiltrate Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop tonight and don’t expose your tracks! I want to find out who this Mo Ling is.”
A vicious glint shone in Elder Zhang’s eyes as he said slowly, “If you get a chance, kill that person to eliminate our future worries!”
The Shadow Rat answered and turned around before disappearing.
In the capital, ordinary cultivators were forbidden from Sword Kinesis Flight as well as fighting.
However, it wasn’t an absolute without loopholes.
As long as there was no massive fluctuation in spirit energy, one could naturally evade the detection of the capital’s guards.
...
Nighttime.
Su Zimo sat in his room silently as usual, refining the essence energy of the dragon egg.
Night Spirit was sprawled beside him.
At midnight, Su Zimo felt something and frowned, opening his eyes.
Almost at the same time, Night Spirit moved and listened intently.
After a while, a cold glint flashed in Night Spirit’s eyes. Walking out of the room silently, it headed to a corner at the edge of the wall and hid itself inside a shadow.
Su Zimo could see everything clearly. Even though Night Spirit’s eyes were opened, its eyes, body and surroundings were integrated with the darkness of the night completely without a single flaw.
If Su Zimo had not seen Night Spirit heading over personally, he would not have believed it.
Before long, a small head popped out of the top of the wall, surveying the surroundings and the courtyard with a pair of shifty eyes.
The Shadow Rat felt a sense of uneasiness but it could not discover anything unusual.
After a moment of hesitation, it retreated from the wall.
Night Spirit was still hidden in the shadow of the night at the corner of the wall motionlessly with a cold gaze, seemingly waiting for something.
True enough!
After a long time, the Shadow Rat appeared at the top of the wall again!
It had not left and was merely being cautious by probing the situation within the wall.
When it discovered that there were no dangers, the Shadow Rat relaxed and slid down the wall slowly.
The moment it landed on the ground, Night Spirit darted out and appeared in front of the Shadow Rat in the blink of an eye.
A cold, sharp claw appeared silently, piercing the Shadow Rat’s flesh.
The Shadow Rat panicked and wanted to shout.
A black light flashed through the skies.
Poof!
There was a crisp sound.
The head of the Shadow Rot was pierced by a sharp spike and its eyes dimmed!
That spike was Night Spirit’s tail.
It was still a flawless hunt!
The Shadow Rat could not resist at all!
Throughout the entire process, Night Spirit was filled with a strong killing aura that was pure and cold.
Picking up the Shadow Rat with its mouth, Night Spirit passed through the courtyard to Jishui River. It swayed its head gently and tossed the corpse of the Shadow Rat into the river, causing a ripple to spring up before disappearing.
The flesh of an ancient remnant beast was not attractive to Night Spirit at all!
Su Zimo narrowed his eyes, seemingly in thought as he smirked.
That Shadow Rat was clearly sent by someone.
“Can’t take it anymore huh?”
...
True Fire Weapon Workshop.
Elder Zhang and Ge Yong did not sleep for the entire night.
Until daybreak, the Shadow Rat did not appear.
There was a hint of fatigue on Elder Yu’s face, as if he had aged ten years overnight.
He took a deep breath, closed his eyes and waved. “Go back and rest. Shadow is dead.”
“This...”
Ge Yong also realized that if Shadow had not returned by now, it was most likely dead.
Elder Zhang walked out of the room and looked in the direction of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop. The coldness in his eyes intensified as he muttered, “Mo Ling, a tall tree attracts the wind. Let’s see how long more you can survive!”
Chapter 260: Breaking the Peace
In the past half a year, even though the reputation of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop had skyrocketed, it was mostly targeted towards Qi Refinement Warriors and Foundation Establishment Cultivators since one could only customize middle-grade spirit weapons. As such, its influence was limited.
However, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’s reputation only truly grew after news of it accepting orders for customized superior-grade spirit weapons spread!
Superior-grade spirit weapons were symbols of many Golden Cores.
Usually the first thing that a Foundation Establishment Cultivator would do after forming a core would be to raise the grade of their spirit weapons.
However, even the cheapest superior-grade spirit weapon required at least 3,000 superior-grade spirit stones.
If they wanted a customized superior-grade spirit weapon, the price would be even higher and they would have to prepare ten sets of materials!
Most cultivators who just attained Golden Core cultivation realm would not have the purchasing ability.
As such, many Golden Cores would only possess a superior-grade spirit weapon that was truly theirs when they were at mid or late-stage.
With the appearance of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop, many Golden Cores who had just formed a core saw hope.
From that day on, every afternoon, instead of Qi Refinement Warriors and Foundation Establishment Cultivators, Golden Cores were the ones gathered in front of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop!
This was quite a spectacular scene.
In the capital, other than the Emperor of Great Zhou, there was no one else who could have such a great influence!
Furthermore, even these Golden Cores did not dare to violate the rules of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop lest they were disqualified from being able to customize superior-grade spirit weapons.
“What’s the background of this Mo Ling? How arrogant of him to let us Golden Cores wait outside.”
“Can’t you see that even Perfected Being Liu has been coming here for seven days straight? If a late-stage Golden Core like him is obeying the rules, we had better wait as well.”
“True geniuses often have weird temperaments. This person must be inordinately proud of his abilities.”
...
Spring came and autumn passed.
In the blink of an eye, Su Zimo had already stayed in the capital for a year and a half.
There was only one year left before the sect competition.
To cultivators, a year and a half passed extremely swiftly.
However, for Su Zimo, he was transforming at every moment of the year and a half!
It was a transformation in all aspects!
In terms of weapon refinement, Su Zimo was becoming more skilled and his understanding of it deepened as well.
His unique Thousand Tempered Finger technique was also being trained to absolute perfection through continuous practicing.
After the Thousand Tempered Finger was perfected, Su Zimo had confidence of refining supreme-grade spirit weapons with 100% certainty!
With sufficient resources of spirit stones, Su Zimo’s cultivation was also increasing steadily as he approached perfected Foundation Establishment.
Of course, what delighted Su Zimo the most was that the essence energy of the dragon egg in his body was half gone!
With another year, Su Zimo could refine all the essence energy of the dragon egg completely. Given the way things were going, he would be able to attain greater mastery of the Organs Refinement section by then as well!
At greater mastery of his Organs Refinement section and if Su Zimo no longer concealed the existence of his demonic qi, a complete release of his power of bloodline would be able to crush all Foundation Establishment Cultivators!
Of course, that was not realistic unless Su Zimo wanted to be the butt of all criticism.
In the year and a half, Night Spirit had already absorbed the essence energy of the dragon egg completely – it was much faster than Su Zimo.
Its body grew even bigger and it was half as tall as a human, covered with black scales that were incomparably tough.
Without a bit of luster, the scales allowed Night Spirit to meld into night completely without being discovered!
Looking at Night Spirit’s body, a thought would flash through Su Zimo’s mind from time to time.
That body was completely made to kill!
In terms of nimbleness, strength, burst, defensive capabilities, speed and various other attributes, they were fused to perfection on Night Spirit’s body.
Ever since the assassination attempt of the Shadow Rat, there had been a few similar situations in the residence.
However, before Su Zimo could make a move, the cultivators and spirit demons that probed were buried under the claws of Night Spirit without being able to make a single peep!
As Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop’s business grew, the number of Golden Cores that visited daily to customize superior-grade spirit weapons increased.
The influence of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop within the capital grew as well.
From dukes and officials down to the merchants and common folk, everyone knew of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
Among them, True Fire Weapon Workshop suffered the greatest.
Previously, they were the number one in the capital.
Now, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop was showing signs of replacing them!
Even though both weapon workshops were peaceful on the surface, everyone knew that it was a mere facade.
Sooner or later, that peace would be broken!
...
This morning, a series of sudden knocks rang outside Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
Nian Qi’s figure flashed as she walked to the main door. When she opened it, she saw a rotund cultivator dressed as a merchant, looking somewhat nervous.
“Fellow Daoist, spirit weapon customization only begins at noon. You’re too early,” Nian Qi said.
“N-No, I’m not.”
The merchant waved hurriedly and coughed. “I-I’m the owner of this residence.”
“Ah?
Nian Qi was stunned.
“Let him in.”
Right then, Su Zimo’s voice sounded.
Nian Qi turned to the side and the merchant hurriedly bowed and expressed his thanks. He walked carefully into Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop, as if the land belonged to someone else, not him.
“Here’s the rent for the remaining two years. Have a look.”
Su Zimo placed a storage bag on the table and pushed it in front of the merchant.
Flustered, the merchant waved his hands hurriedly, “No, how can I accept your rent. I don’t deserve it, fellow Daoist.”
Su Zimo smiled and asked, “Is there anything else other than the rental?”
“Yes.”
The merchant’s face was uneasy as he rubbed his hands and said with a trace of pleading in his eyes, “I hope that you can help me forge a superior-grade spirit weapon, fellow Daoist.”
Su Zimo wanted to reject him on the spot.
However, he thought about how he might not have had a place to stay in the capital if not for this person’s residence.
Furthermore, a superior-grade spirit weapon was nothing much for him.
After pondering for a while, Su Zimo nodded and agreed to it.
Returning to his secret chamber for weapon refinement, Su Zimo took out the Weapon Tripod and began refining the weapon.
The merchant requested for a flying sword, the most common and simplest of customized spirit weapons.
Even so, Su Zimo was not sloppy about it and completed every single step with utmost seriousness.
At the tempering stage, a flash of inspiration appeared in Su Zimo’s mind, unraveling every single doubt he had repressed for the past half a year in his mind!
The Thousand Tempered Finger technique was perfected!
Accompanied by tinkling sounds, Su Zimo’s fingers were as light as elves, striking the body of the sword as the impurities within were purged bit by bit.
After tempering was over, Su Zimo realized that he might be able to create his first supreme-grade spirit weapon!
Spirit gathering began.
One spirit pattern.
Two spirit patterns.
It was almost effortless for Su Zimo for the first two spirit patterns.
At the third spirit pattern, Su Zimo encountered some obstacles. However, he still managed to complete it successfully after a couple of attempts with his spirit perception.
Taking a deep breath of air, Su Zimo did not stop there and chose to attempt condensing the fourth spirit pattern!
Chapter 261: Life Exchange
Time trickled bit by bit. It was almost noon and Su Zimo had yet to come out of his secret chamber.
The merchant was getting impatient as he paced around the courtyard endlessly, frowning with a grim expression.
At this moment, he felt a sense of regret in his mind.
From his point of view, the reason why Su Zimo did not appear for such a long time must be because the weapon refinement had failed.
Two years of rent was equivalent to 6,000 superior-grade spirit stones. That was equivalent to two superior-grade spirit weapons.
Coupled with the one he had just customized, he had made a loss of three superior-grade spirit weapons!
“Just for the sake of getting acquainted with a Weapon Refinement Master, I threw in three superior-grade spirit weapons. What a loss!” The merchant was frustrated internally.
Afternoon.
Su Zimo finally came forth from his secret chamber, looking visibly fatigued – it seemed to have drained him significantly.
When the merchant saw this, he was even more certain of his speculation.
“Fellow Daoist, where’s my superior-grade spirit weapon?” The merchant approached with a fake smile.
Su Zimo shook his head. “I didn’t refine a superior-grade spirit weapon...”
True enough!
The merchant retracted his smile and his face darkened. Without waiting for Su Zimo to continue, he interrupted, “Fellow Daoist Mo, the two years of rental that I did not collect from you along with the loss I made for this superior-grade spirit weapon... let’s talk about compensation!”
“Compensation?”
Su Zimo furrowed his brows, gradually realizing what was happening. A look of mockery flashed in his eyes and he asked, “Does that mean that you don’t want this supreme-grade spirit weapon then?”
“Ow?”
“Supreme-grade spirit weapon?”
The merchant was stunned, wondering if he had heard wrongly.
Nian Qi’s beautiful eyes were widened in disbelief as well.
Su Zimo flicked his palm open and a fresh flying sword laid calmly, exactly the way the merchant had specified.
He injected spirit energy into it and a bedazzling spirit light shone from the sword!
Four rays of spirit patterns flashed consecutively, almost blinding the merchant!
“F-Four spirit patterns?”
The merchant was so frightened that he fell to the ground on his butt, remarking with a trembling voice as his jaws dropped.
“A supreme-grade spirit weapon!”
After a long time, an ear-piercing shriek echoed in every corner of the residence.
The merchant’s eyes shone with excitement. He was so emotional that he wanted to grab the supreme-grade flying sword right away. However, he was embarrassed and was at a loss.
It was no wonder why the merchant lost his composure.
Golden Cores had a lifespan of 500 years.
Typically, with the passage of time, Golden Cores would deepen in their cultivations and accumulate more resources, eventually obtaining one or two superior-grade spirit weapons.
However, other than the top factions of Tianhuang Mainland, most Golden Cores might not even obtain a single supreme-grade spirit weapon in their entire lives!
“Fellow Daoist Mo, Sir Mo...!”
The merchant said with a fawning smile, “You’re the best Weapon Refinement Master, please don’t stoop to my level. I was only spouting nonsense just now, please don’t take it for real.”
Even though the merchant was a Golden Core, the moment Su Zimo could refine superior-grade or even supreme-grade spirit weapons, their statuses were already reversed.
“Take it.”
After making the most critical step of progress on his weapon tempering technique, Su Zimo was in a great mood and could not be bothered to get calculative with this person.
“Sir Mo, this residence belongs to you from this day forth. Feel free to live as you please,” The merchant was smiling so widely it was about to bloom as he took over the supreme-grade flying sword.
His residence could only sell 100,000 superior-grade spirit stones at most.
However, a supreme-grade spirit weapon cost 500,000 superior-grade spirit stones at least!
No matter how he looked at it, this transaction was a huge gain for him – the light had shone at the end of the tunnel!
With high spirits, the merchant left Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
On that very day, an earth-shaking piece of news spread throughout the capital quickly!
From today on, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop would no longer refine superior-grade spirit weapons. Instead, they would customize supreme-grade spirit weapons!
What did it mean by customizing supreme-grade spirit weapons?
It meant that Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop was extremely confident that they could refine supreme-grade spirit weapons!
Throughout history, there had never been Weapon Refinement Masters who would dare to boast of such a thing!
Of course, the rules of customizing supreme-grade spirit weapons in Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop were very different from previous rules.
First, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop would only customize a single supreme-grade spirit weapon each month.
It would not open for business at all other times.
Second, at the start of each month, Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop would conduct an auction and the highest bidder would obtain the chance to customize a supreme-grade spirit weapon for the month.
Third, the cultivators would have to prepare 30 sets of materials for the supreme-grade spirit weapon.
When the news spread, the capital exploded instantly!
Many Golden Cores experts appeared one after another, exiting from their seclusions in a bid to head to Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
The allure of a supreme-grade spirit weapon was too great for Golden Cores but there was no market for it.
Given Su Zimo’s capabilities, he only needed one set of materials to refine a supreme-grade spirit weapon every afternoon.
With that, he could refine 30 supreme-grade spirit weapons in a month!
That was a terrifying figure!
If all of them were placed in the market, it would cause a huge stir and might even cause many troubles. As a result, the price of supreme-grade spirit weapons would drop as well.
Therefore, Su Zimo thought up another method.
To outsiders, he would only refine a single supreme-grade spirit weapon each month.
However, in reality, Su Zimo would make use of the 30 sets of materials to refine a supreme-grade spirit weapon daily and continue to raise his weapon refinement technique.
...
That night, two Golden Cores arrived at True Fire Weapon Workshop, looking travel-worn with frost on their faces.
Both Golden Cores were old with white beards and hair with wrinkles on their faces. Their eyes were turbid and exuded an aged aura.
“Meng Han, Liang Qiu. Please come in, fellow Daoists.”
Elder Zhang went forward and quickly welcomed them into the back hall.
“Elder Zhang. It’s been many years since we last met. How have you been?” Meng Han nodded and cupped his fists.
“Hais.”
Elder Zhang shook his head and gave a long sigh.
Liang Qiu said, “Don’t worry, Elder Zhang. Our purpose for this trip is to resolve this matter for the sect. You can rest assured.”
“That’s right. The two of us don’t have much lifespan left. Rather than dying of old age, we might as well give our lives to fight this guy in exchange for the glory of True Fire Sect,” A vicious glint shone in Meng Han’s eyes.
For the past year and a half, True Fire Weapon Workshop has been enduring.
However, when news of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop being able to customize supreme-grade spirit weapons spread, Elder Zhang could no longer sit still.
The influence of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop was growing.
If it was allowed to develop further, it would not only affect the business of True Fire Weapon Workshop. Even True Fire Sect’s reputation would be damaged severely!
True Fire Sect sent two Golden Cores to the capital right away.
The two of them were Liang Qiu and Meng Han.
True Fire Sect’s plan was clear – to exchange lives!
In the Great Zhou’s capital, there were three great guard squads, Scarlet Vulture, Azure Falcon and White Hawk. The commanders of those squads were all Golden Core experts!
The three guard squads patrolled the streets day and night in shifts and security was tight.
Any activity would lead to the guards’ instant arrival.
Liang Qiu and Meng Han were aiming to kill Mo Ling in his weapon workshop before the guard squads arrived!
This was an assassination attempt of no return, exchanging their lives for his!
Of course, if not for the fact that Liang Qiu and Meng Han were at the end of their lifespans, they would not do something like this.
Chapter 262: Ten Breaths
Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop.
Su Zimo assumed a lotus position in his room, using the breathing and expiration method of the Organs Refinement section while refining the essence energy of the dragon egg in his body.
With each breath and expiration, a strong demonic qi would be released from Su Zimo’s mouth and nose, permeating through the room and morphing into various beasts.
Some spread their wings and soared into the skies while others raised their heads and roared. All of them had different forms and were divinely extraordinary!
Su Zimo sat silently in the middle of the thousands of beasts, motionless as he exuded a terrifying aura that was above all life, sending chills down one’s spine.
It was late at night and Nian Qi had already fallen asleep in her room, leaving only Night Spirit beside Su Zimo.
All of a sudden!
Su Zimo jolted awake from his cultivation and opened his eyes, causing two cold lights to shine momentarily in the night.
He felt a strong sense of trepidation!
Almost at the same time, Night Spirit also sensed something and stood up.
Su Zimo narrowed his eyes.
There seemed to be nothing different in the courtyard.
If not for his spirit perception, Su Zimo would not have been able to sense that danger was already so close to them!
Someone had managed to scale the wall and land into the courtyard while evading Su Zimo’s sight and hearing. The fact that it was so silent was evident of the other party’s strength.
Jishui River was still flowing and gushing.
Everything seemed normal, but Su Zimo vaguely caught a trace of abnormality amid the sound of running water!
There were experts approaching both in front and behind of them!
If Su Zimo was not wrong, the people arriving should be Golden Cores!
...
Liang Qiu and Meng Han did not dare to be careless and had already made their plans in True Fire Weapon Workshop.
To ensure that nothing went wrong, the two of them split up.
One of them would scale the wall through while the other would infiltrate Jishui River and flow down!
At almost the same time, both Golden Cores that were close to the end of their lifespans entered the residence and headed towards Su Zimo’s room.
Until now, the two of them had yet to use any spirit energy.
The moment they did, especially when they were fighting, the capital guards would definitely be alerted!
The sooner they alerted the capital guards, the less time they had remaining.
All of a sudden!
A faint sight came from within the room.
“You’re finally here...”
Upon hearing that, Liang Qiu and Meng Han’s expressions changed.
Right after, a dazzling brilliance shone beneath their feet.
The light of an array formation!
There was an array formation carved outside the room!
The light of the formation was like a torch that shot into the sky, adding a killing intent to the vast darkness.
Tonight, it was Azure Falcon’s turn to patrol.
Every single Azure Falcon guard had an Azure Falcon demon beast as a companion, hence the name.
Every single Azure Falcon was a Foundation Establishment spirit demon that was extraordinary and powerful. When they flapped their wings and released their full power, their speeds were extremely fast.
All the Azure Falcon guards patrolling the streets of the capital caught sight of the formation light beam.
“Look at the light of that formation. It should be a Grade 2 formation.”
“Yes, but from the way the light is so multifarious, it’s possible that there are two or more formations fused together.”
The Azure Falcon guards discussed as they sped towards the origin of the formation beam.
“What direction is it coming from?”
“Eh? Judging from the location... it seems to be Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop?”
“Oh no, Mr. Mo is in trouble!”
Many of the Azure Falcon guards’ expressions changed drastically as they charged forward. One of them even took out a green badge from his storage bag and tossed it into the air.
Arriving at the highest point, the badge exploded silently, forming a gigantic Azure Falcon.
The Azure Falcon Badge!
One would only use the Azure Falcon Badge if something extremely important happened!
For the past two years, the most famous person with the biggest influence in the capital would have to be the owner of Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop, Weapon Refinement Master Mo Ling.
Now, even for their discussions and gossip, people referred to him as Mr. Mo out of respect.
The sole fact that he was able to customize supreme-grade spirit weapons was enough to confer Mo Ling the title of the number one Weapon Refinement Master in the Great Zhou Dynasty!
In the capital, be it early-stage or late-stage Golden Cores, it was their honor to be able to meet Mr. Mo.
Almost at the same time, a green figure leaped into the air and sped towards Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop like lightning.
...
The moment the formation light shone, Meng Han and Liang Qiu felt their hearts sink.
It was only a Grade 2 formation and was not enough to trap the both of them.
However, the two of them had already alerted the capital guards before they even caught sight of the legendary Mo Ling. That was equivalent to losing the initiative and they were now in a passive position given the complete change in circumstances.
Ten breaths!
If the Commander of the Azure Falcon guards, Mu Dongqing, used all his strength to rush here, he would only require ten breaths worth of time.
This meant that Liang Qiu and Meng Han had to find Mo Ling and kill him on the spot within that ten breaths!
Otherwise, after ten breaths, once the Commander of the Azure Falcon guards arrive, they would be the dead ones.
“Ten breaths is more than enough time!”
Liang Qiu hollered as he conjured hand seals with his left hand, conjuring spirit arts.
His right sleeve trembled and a flying sword darted out. Almost instantly, three spirit patterns lit up on the sword – it was a superior-grade spirit weapon!
Boom!
With a loud bang, the Grade 2 formation’s barrier shattered on the spot and dissipated, revealing a green-robed cultivator at the back. He was handsome and bore a calm expression as he looked over coldly.
At the same time, Meng Han slapped his storage bag and waved both hands, shooting out two cold beams of light.
Spirit patterns lit up in a dazzling manner.
Two superior-grade flying swords!
“Go to hell!”
Meng Han’s flying sword pierced towards the green-robed cultivator like two beams of light. Before the swords even arrived, the temperature of the surroundings dipped in a suffocating manner.
By now, a breath had passed.
Everyone knew of the situation.
There were only two men and one beast in Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop and the green-robed cultivator in front of them was obviously not the little girl named Nian Qi – his identity was exposed!
In reality, the moment they caught sight of Su Zimo, Liang Qiu and Meng Han were slightly stunned.
They had never expected that Mr. Mo, the so-called number one Weapon Refinement Master in the Great Zhou Dynasty, would be a young man in his twenties.
Furthermore, the young man was only at Foundation Establishment.
But very quickly, Liang Qiu and Meng Han regained their senses as a look of mockery flashed across their eyes.
To both of them, Su Zimo was already a dead man.
Under the combined forces of two Golden Cores, notwithstanding the fact that Su Zimo was only at late-stage Foundation Establishment, even if he was a meridian cultivator, he would not be able to last more than ten breaths!
Meng Han’s two flying swords pierced towards Su Zimo at an extremely fast speed.
Su Zimo did not dodge at all, seemingly scared silly or couldn’t react in time.
“It’s over.”
Liang Qiu and Meng Han glared at Su Zimo coldly, as if they could visualize the image of the latter’s head pierced by the flying swords with fresh blood gushing out.
Snap!
The next moment, the sound of shattering on the battlefield caused their expressions to change.
He was not dead?
The flying sword did not pierce Su Zimo and instead struck another barrier of light!
There were other array formations other than the Grade 2 formation!
This was a chain formation!
Two breaths had passed.
Chapter 263: Perilous Situation
In Liang Qiu and Meng Han’s eyes, Su Zimo was standing not far away, seemingly within reach.
But in reality, there were dozens of Grade 2 formations standing between them.
A year ago, on the night when Night Spirit killed the Shadow Rat, Su Zimo had already realized that someone in the capital wanted his life!
In fact, there might even be Golden Cores sent to assassinate him in the future!
The gap between Foundation Establishment and Golden Core realm was way too great.
Even if Su Zimo was both an immortal and demon cultivator, he would not be able to face a Golden Core head on with the full release of his power of blood qi.
Once a Golden Core arrives, Su Zimo would definitely die!
However, this was the capital of Great Zhou after all.
What Su Zimo wanted to do was not to confront the Golden Cores head on, but to stall for time!
As long as he could last for the short period of time and wait for the capital guards to arrive, the assassination attempt by the Golden Cores would be for naught!
For this day, Su Zimo set up many Grade 2 formations outside, linked and interconnected. Even if the people caught were Golden Cores, they would not be able to dispel the formations in a short period of time.
There were dozens of illusion, trapping and killing formations combined together. While they were all Grade 2 formations, those were the peaks of Grade 2 formations!
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Liang Qiu and Meng Han continued to release their spirit arts. Light shone in the night skies as the sounds of array formations shattering rang out.
In the blink of an eye, another two breaths had passed.
Four breaths had passed since the two of them were exposed.
However, the two of them were still trapped in the formations, unable to charge out.
“Hmm?”
Sensing the urgency of time, Meng Han’s expression changed slightly as he coldly asked, “Just how many formations did this person set up?”
Both of them had destroyed at least ten formations within two breaths of time but they were still not out of the area!
If this continued, they would die within the formations without even seeing Su Zimo himself.
Liang Qiu took out a talisman from his storage bag and injected spirit energy into it with a vicious glint in his eyes.
Swoosh!
The talisman floated in midair as three dazzling spirit patterns sparkled on it, exuding a domineeringly strong force that intensified!
A Grade 3 talisman!
Su Zimo’s heart skipped a beat.
The aura emitted by that Grade 3 talisman was more terrifying than Liang Qiu and Meng Han’s combined attacks!
Even his body would be penetrated instantly if he was struck by the power of that talisman directly.
The talisman was crushed.
Boom!
With a deafening boom, the ground in Mo Spirit Weapon Workshop shook vigorously.
The stone slabs cracked, the earth rumbled and the house shook like it could collapse at any moment as dust clouds puffed all over.
The core of the shattered talisman let out a bedazzling light akin to the sun descending as a destructive force rippled in all directions!
Initially, there were around thirty odd Grade 2 formations left surrounding Liang Qiu and Meng Han.
Since they did not know anything about formations, they had to rely on brute force to break through the formations and ten breaths was sufficient for them to deal with everything.
However, even if they could dispel the formations, they mission would be a failure.
Time was of the essence.
Therefore, Liang Qiu had no choice but to take out that Grade 3 talisman.
That was his most powerful offensive technique and he had traded for it with almost all his life savings – that was also his final trump card.
After the talisman was shattered, the terrifying strength demolished all the thirty odd Grade 2 formations in an instant.
There were still five breaths of time left.
The moment the formations were shattered, Night Spirit moved.
A black shadow darted by, indistinguishable to the naked eye under the guise of the night and arriving almost instantaneously in front of Liang Qiu.
Ten sharp claws silently reached out from the gaps of the palm. Long, sharp and slightly curved, they were like ten huge hooks that shone with a cold glint!
It would be almost impossible for one to break free if they were struck with claws like that!
Night Spirit’s pair of front claws grabbed Liang Qiu’s shoulders while its rear claws struck Liang Qiu’s ribs. At the same time, it opened its mouth and bit at Liang Qiu’s neck viciously.
While it was a simple movement, it had almost rendered Liang Qiu’s entire body sealed!
Once his shoulders were locked, it was equivalent to his arms being crippled. The rear claws that pierced the ribs not only penetrated Liang Qiu’s organs, Night Spirit could even change stances to counter Liang Qiu’s legs at any moment.
It was not over yet.
Night Spirit’s spear-like tail shimmered with a dark light and was already stabbing towards Liang Qiu’s dantian in silence!
Every single Golden Core Perfected Being’s strongest method was to self-destruct their Golden Cores.
The self-destruction of a Golden Core would instantly release a terrifying power that could even kill cultivators of the same level!
Of course, once they chose that option, the self-destructing Golden Core would definitely perish with nothing remaining.
Therefore, no Golden Cores would choose to self-destruct until the very last moment.
In fact, many Golden Cores would choose not to self-destruct even until the moment they died.
Not everyone had the courage to self-destruct.
By piercing Liang Qiu’s dantian with its tail, Night Spirit was ensuring that Liang Qiu would not even have the chance to self-destruct!
He had no way of retreating!
Night Spirit’s attack was perfect and flawless – every single detail pushed the limits of killing!
Such brilliant techniques were usually honed through countless bloodshed and battles where one experienced close shaves with death.
However, Night Spirit was an exception.
No one taught it those things.
It was as if everything was infused in his bones and were deeply rooted; an innate ability that was inherited from his bloodline.
Liang Qiu could tell of the lethality in Night Spirit’s killing attack and was alarmed as an uncontrollable trace of panic flashed past his eyes.
However, he was a Golden Core after all!
Furthermore, he was a Golden Core that had lived for almost 500 years! He had seen and experienced far too many battles in his lifetime!
With a speed inferior to Night Spirit’s, if Liang Qiu chose to dodge instinctively at this moment, he was bound to die!
He repressed the panic in his heart and touched his storage bag with a calm expression. Instantly, a protection talisman appeared in his hand that he crushed.
Whoosh!
A barrier appeared on Liang Qiu’s body that illuminated extremely brightly and burst forth with a shocking amount of energy.
Almost all of Night Spirit’s killing moves were deflected by the protection talisman.
At the same time, Night Spirit’s body was repelled by the power of the protection talisman.
Liang Qiu broke out in cold sweat.
Crack! Crack! Crack!
The light barrier cracked and dimmed.
Even though he was unharmed, Night Spirit’s attack had cost him a Grade 3 protection talisman just like that!
However, the Grade 3 talisman extended Liang Qiu’s life, allowing him to catch his breath.
“B*stard, how dare you!”
Liang Qiu was furious as he activated his Golden Core, causing pure spirit energy to channel from it. Conjuring a seal with his left hand, he waved his right hand and pierced at Night Spirit’s head with an immense sword qi.
The moment Night Spirit missed its attack, it had already realized that things were not looking good.
Pshew!
A cold light flashed. Because the distance between them was too close, coupled with the fact that Liang Qiu had expended all his might in a moment of anger, the flying sword appeared almost instantly!
Night Spirit turned its head with all its might, avoiding lethal damage as a stream of blood shone.
A wound deep enough to reveal bones appeared on Night Spirit’s cheek as blood dripped everywhere.
In fact, given Liang Qiu’s strength as a Golden Core, even if Night Spirit had avoided damage to its vital points, the sword qi from the flying sword should have been enough to slice Night Spirit’s head into half!
However, the pitch-black scales on Night Spirit’s cheek blocked most of the damage from the sword qi, allowing it to survive.
In just a single exchange of blows, things were already in a perilous situation!
If either the man or the beast had dealt with things wrongly with any bit of hesitation, one party would have died on the spot!
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