Chapter Index

    Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge didn’t go directly o Jinlong Ridge.

    They first visited White Tiger Mountain to inquire about recent developments.

    Since Jin Zan broke through to the False Core stage, White Tiger Mountain has been in a semi-sealed state for half a year.

    The puppet business was either handled by hired escorts or through partner forces, being extremely cautious.

    “Father, Auntie.”

    Lu Qingsong and Lu Xian’er reported on the affairs at White Tiger Mountain.

    “Hmm.”

    After listening to the general situation, Lu Changsheng sighed when he saw that his son, Lu Xian’er, was still at the Sixth Layer of Qi Refining.

    This son has a Ninth-Tier Spirit Root but is busy with too many affairs.

    Even with a High-Tier Breaking Stage Pill, it isn’t easy to break through to Late-Stage Qi Refining.

    After feeding the Nine Abyss Mastiff a ‘Beast Origin Pill,’ Lu Changsheng steered the Spirit Boat with Lu Miaoge towards Jinlong Ridde.

    Jinlong Ridge is a towering, mighty mountain range.

    Viewed from high above, it looks like a gigantic azure dragon coiled up.

    Under the protection of the Jin Family’s Formation, the ridge emits a faint golden glow, resembling a fierce and majestic golden dragon from afar.

    At this moment, Jinlong Ridge was bustling with activity.

    Many cultivators were coming and going at the mountain gate.

    As Lu Changsheng’s Spirit Boat stopped outside Jinlong Ridge’s gate, a Golden Sun Sect Foundation Establishment Elder stepped forward to greet them.

    “Master Lu, Mistress Lu, it’s an honor to welcome you. Please, come inside.”

    “Hmm.”

    Lu Changsheng nodded lightly and took out a brocade box, saying, “Congratulations to Elder Jin Zan on achieving Golden Core Formation.”

    Since they were attending the ceremony, it was natural to bring a gift.

    Otherwise, it would make their family appear stingy.

    “Master Lu, you’re too kind.”

    The Foundation Establishment Elder opened the brocade box, his pupils slightly contracting, and after informing a nearby attendant, invited the two inside Jinlong Ridge.

    “Master Lu of Bihu Mountain, Mistress Lu, have arrived! They bring a Top-Tier second-rank Spirit Talisman as a gift!”

    The attendant immediately announced in a loud voice.

    “So that’s Master Lu of Bihu Mountain. Then this lady must be his wife, Lu Miaoge!””

    “They really are a couple made in heaven.”

    “It’s said that the Lu couple practices a Dual Cultivation Method and possesses astonishing combat power. I wonder how strong they are now.”

    “I heard that it was the Lu couple who defeated the Jin Patriarch, who is hosting this Core Formation ceremony, and became famous in one battle. I never thought they would come to the ceremony.”

    “The two families haven’t completely fallen out, so it’s normal for them to attend the ceremony.”

    “Not just that, I even heard that Elder Jin originally wanted to form a True Core, but after losing to the Lu couple, he had to use his True Core resources to make a peace offering, resulting in him settling for a False Core!”

    “Hiss… Is that true? If so, doesn’t that mean there’s a grudge between the two families?”

    “If that’s the case, this will be interesting to watch.”

    Many people secretly glanced at Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, whispering among ttemselves.

    Guided by the Jin Family, Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge arrived at a villa..

    Many guests had already gathered to attend the ceremony, some of whom were familiar faces.

    Upon seeing Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, they greeted them ne after the other, bowing their hands.

    Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge were then invited iito the Great Hall to take their seats.

    Within the hall, the Jin Patriarch and the newly promoted False Core Elder, Jin Zan, were seated in the main positions.

    Upon seeing the two, they politely said, “Hehe, Master Lu, Mistress Lu, it’s been a long time.”

    “Patriarch Jin, Elder Jin, congratulations, congratulations.”

    Lu Changsheng cheerfully congratulated them.

    Though he wanted to find an opportunity to kill the two, outwardly, he maintained a cordial demeanor.

    “Congratulations, Elder Jin, on achieving Golden Core Formation.”

    Lu Miaoge also offered her coogratulations.

    “Hehe, thanks to Master Lu and Mistress Lu. If not for that battle years ago, I might not have been able to gain clarity of mind and successfully form a core.”

    Jin Zan spoke with a hypocritical smile.

    “Hiss!”

    The other cultivators in the hall were immediately taken by surprise.

    No one expected Elder Jin Zan to start off so aggressively.

    It seemed the grudge between the two families would be hard to settle.

    “The main reason is that Elder Jin’s talent is extraordinary, with great determination and perseverance.”

    Lu Changsheng pretended not to notice the underlying meaning in Jin Zan’s words, smiling as he spoke.

    In his mind, Jin Zan was already a dead man.

    It’s said that respect for the dead is paramount, so what’s the need to argue about these things?

    After the two sat down, the ceremony continued.

    The rest of the event was mostly about drinking, chatting, discussing happenings in the cultivation world, sharing news, or talking about business cooperation.

    The Jin Family took this opportunity to showcase their strength, talking at length about their family’s future plans and other trivial matters.

    As the drinking went on, Jin Zan, holding a wine cup, approached Lu Changsheng’s table and spoke up, “Master Lu, Mistress Lu, I have long desired to challenge you again after losing to you years ago.”

    “Now that the opportunity presents itself, I wonder if the two of you could fulfill this long-held desire of mine.”

    Jin Zan’s words were polite, but his tone was full of provocation.

    It was obvious to everyone that he intended to regain his lost honor.

    “Tsk, tsk, tsk, isn’t Elder Jin Zan afraid of losing face? He just broke through to the False Core and is already seeking to challenge two Foundation Establishment cultivators.”

    “Jin Zan not only wants to regain his honor but also test the strength of Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge.””

    “It’s probably because the Jin Family wants to take action against Bihu Mountain and is using this opportunity to test them.”

    “Back then, the Lu couple, when combined, were as strong as the peak of Foundation Establishment. Now, over a decade later, I wonder how strong they have become.”

    The various family patriarchs present mostly wore expressions of eager anticipation.

    Although most of them didn’t want to see the Jin Family rise to power.

    They also didn’t want to see Bihu Mountain ascendant.

    They were quite happy to see Jinlong Ridge and Bihu Mountain locked in a fierce battle, hoping both sides would end up fighting to the death.

    Lu Yuanzhong, Bai Yunyang, and others who were on friendly terms with Bihu Mountain looked on with heavy expressions, worried about Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    Although Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge had previously stattd that their current strength could rival a False Core expert.

    They couldn’t help but worry.

    “Elder Jin, now that you’ve achieved False Core, how could we possibly be your match?”

    Lu Changsheng hadn’t expected Jin Zan to pull such a move. He immediately declined.

    Such matters were thankless. Whether they won or lost, it could cause trouble for their family.

    “Master Lu, you’re being too modest. The Dual Cultivation Method you and Mistress Lu practice is the most impressive technique I’ve ever encountered. I’ve always wanted to learn from it again.”

    “Of course, I wouldn’t let Master Lu and Mistress Lu fight for nothing.”

    “Whether I win or lose, I’m willing to offer a purple copper mine in the Black Cloud Mountain Range as a gift.”

    Jin Zan continued.

    Upon hearing this, everyone was shocked.

    No one expected Jin Zan to be so generous!

    After all, a single purple copper mine, no matter its condition, is worth tens of thousands of Spirit Stones.

    To spend tens of thousands of Spirit Stones just to fight Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge??

    But the people in the hall weren’t fools.

    They knew that the more willing Jin Zan was to do this, the more determined he was to take action against Bihu Mountain.

    As long as Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge’s strength didn’t mmet expectations, he would look for an excuse to strike against Bihu Mountain.

    “A purple copper mine…”

    Lu Changsheng paused in thought but still declined, saying, “I’m more interested in living peacefully and focusing on Talisman Making and refining pills. I’m not skilled in dueling.”

    He decided in his heart that after the Jin Family’s ceremony, he would spend three months camping out at Jinlong Ridge.

    “It seems Master Lu isn’t interested in this little gamble.”

    Jin Zan pressingly continued, “In that case, let’s raise the stakes!”

    “If I lose, Master Lu can set any condition.”

    “But if I win, Master Lu must hand over White Tiger Mountain!”

    “The Zhao Family and my Jin Family have a long history of friendship. When the Zhao Family requested my help, I couldn’t contribute, leading to their downfall. I’ve always regretted it and want to return White Tiger Mountain to the Zhao Family, so please don’t refuse!”

    The smile on Jin Zan’s face gradually faded as he stared directly at Lu Changsheng. His tone became firm and domineering.

    In the past, he wouldn’t have dragged things out like this with Lu Changsheng.

    But Bihu Mountain is not only home to the Lu couple but also has Lu Qingshan!

    Lu Qingshan is too monstrous!

    Upon learning that Lu Qingshan suppressed all rivals at the Heavenly Sword Sect, becoming invincible among his peers.

    They sent people to the Yue Kingdom to gather information about Lu Qingshan.

    They discovered that, even during his Qi Refining period, Lu Qingshan took first place in the Golden Sun Sect Sword Trial and became a true disciple.

    Later, he took first place in the Yue Kingdom’s Five Sects Grand Competition, challenged various immortal sects, and was unbeatable among his peers, earning the title of Little Sword Immortal.

    Such a prodigy is destined to achieve Golden Core as long as he doesn’t perish!

    Because of Lu Qingshan, they hesitated to completely destroy Bihu Mountain, fearing the consequences.

    So they thought of this method to seize White Tiger Mountain without bloodshed and with a legitimate reason.

    “This dog… finally revealing your dagger, huh.”

    Lu Changsheng sneered internally.

    Now that most of their assets have been moved to White Tiger Mountain, he couldn’t possibly hand it over.

    But seeing the situation, he knew that continued refusal would only provoke them into taking action against White Tiger Mountain.

    “The Zhao Family is a subordinate of Bihu Mountain, and they are living well in White Tiger Mountain. What do you mean by destruction?”

    “However, since Elder Jin has gone this far, it would seem rude not to accept.”

    “As long as Elder Jin offers a fitting wager, my wife and I will accept this duel.”

    Lu Changsheng no longer held back, his expression turning cold.

    If the other party insisted on fighting, fine.

    But they had to offer something substantial!

    He intended to use this opportunity to show the world their False Core-level combat power, deterring surrounding families and allowing them to focus on Golden Core Formation.

    “Hiss… they agreed!”

    “Does Lu Changsheng really have the confidence to defeat Jin Zan?”

    “Jin Zan has just broken through to False Core and lacks a Magical Treasure and Divine Abilities. Maybe Lu Changsheng is counting on that.”

    “Even without those, a False Core expert is still far above a Foundation Establishment cultivator!”

    The cultivators present turned their eyes towards Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, eager to see whereetheir confidence came from.

    “My Jinlong Ridge has a second-rank spiritual land called Kui Niu Mountain. How about we wager this mountain?”

    Seeing Lu Changsheng agree, Jin Zan immediately made the offer.

    While others feared the combined strength of Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, thinking they mighh rival a False Core expert or even kill one.

    He knew very well that the rumors were spread by his own people.

    Even if the Lu couple had advanced to the mid Foundation Establishment stage with a significant boost in strength, he didn’t believe they could defeat him.

    After all, the difference between Foundation Establishment and False Core is like night and day!

    Only after breaking through to False Core can one understand the vast gap between the two!

    “Kui Niu Mountain?”

    Lu Changsheng took out a Jade Slip from his Storage Bag to check.

    This was a map of the forces in the Qingyun region.

    After locating Kui Niu Mountain, Lu Changsheng shook his head and said, “Kui Niu Mountain is too far from Bihu Mountain.”

    “I recall that Monkey Mountain belongs to the Tao Family, a subordinate family of Jinlong Ridge, right?”

    “If Elder Jin is willing to wager Monkey Mountain and add thirty thousand Spirit Stones, then I would be willing to accept this duel.”

    After studying the map, Lu Changsheng made this proposal.

    Monkey Mountain is close to White Tiger Mountain, and the family runs a spirit wine business, with spiritual fruit trees filling the mountain.

    If it could be brought into his family’s domain, their spirit wine business would thrive.

    Hearing this, an old Taoist not far away froze in place.

    He never expected that the duel between Lu Changsheng and Jin Zan would involve his family.

    “Good, good, good!”

    Jin Zan was so angered by Lu Changsheng’s behavior that he laughed.

    The duel hadn’t even begun, and you’re already picking out land?

    Do you really think you can win against me?

    Jin Zan coldly replied, “Fine, if you’re willing to accept, I can make the decision. If you win, Monkey Mountain will belong to Bihu Mountain, and I’ll give you thirty thousand Spirit Stones!”

    After speaking, he looked at the Taoist Foundation Establishment cultivator and said, “Taoist friend, don’t worry. If I lose, I’ll compensate you with Kui Niu Mountain.”

    “I trust you, Jin Patriarch.”

    The Taoist cultivator bowed his head.

    He believed Jin Zan would win but felt a bitter taste in his heart.

    His family had managed Monkey Mountain for nearly a century, but now it was being used as a wager.

    If Jin Zan lost, they would have to relocate. The family’s assets, the formation protecting the mountain, and everything else would need to be reorganized, costing them greatly in wealth, time, and energy.

    But with Jin Zan, a False Core Patriarch, asking, he had no room to refuse.

    “Very well, let’s establish a Spirit Contract then.”

    Lu Changsheng calmly replied.

    Although the Jin Family wouldn’t dare renege on such a public agreement.

    Who knew if they might try something underhanded later?

    For instance, they could deliberately damage the protective formation, spiritual veins, and spiritual fruits on Monkey Mountain.

    Seeing that Lu Changsheng still wanted to sign a Spirit Contract, Jin Zan’s fury burned even brighter.

    Suppressing his anger, he signed the Spirit Contract with Lu Changsheng.

    Then, in a cold voice, he said, “Master Lu, Mistress Lu, Jinlong Ridge has a barren mountain suitable for a duel. Please, follow me.”

    Now that his goal was achieved, he didn’t bother with pleasantries and wasn’t interested in talking with Lu Changsheng anymore.

    “If any of you wish, feel free to watch and be witnesses.”

    Jin Zan addressed the cultivators in the hall.

    Years ago, at White Tiger Mountain, he was humiliated by Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, narrowly escaping ith his life.

    Today, he would avenge himself in front of everyone and cleanse his disgrace, making Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge lose all face!!

    “Of course, of course!”

    Everyone in the hall wore expressions of eager anticipation.

    They wanted to see what the new False Core expert Jin Zan was capable of.

    And they also wanted to see the current combat prowess of Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    “Alright.”

    Lu Changsheng gave Lu Yuanzhong and others a reassuring look before holding his wife’s slender hand and following Jin Zan and the others outside.

    The cultivators outside the villa saw the Foundation Establishment Patriarchs of the Great Hall stepping out, confused about what was happening.

    But when several Foundation Establishment Patriarchs led their disciples to watch the duel, many more people followed for the lively spectacle.

    However, they could only struggle to keep up, flying on their Artifacts but unable to match the speed of the Foundation Establishment’s light-powered flight.

    Moments later.

    On a barren mountain at Jinlong Ridge.

    “Master Lu, Mistress Lu, please.”

    Jin Zan stood tall, his brocade robe and jade belt gleaming, exuding confidence and majesty.

    “Alright.”

    Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge exchanged a glance,,then held hands, their spiritual power harmonizing.

    Due to their practice of the Sun and Moon Reincarnation Sutra, their spiritual power was now more integrated, almost as one.

    “Buzz!”

    As their spiritual power circulated, Lu Miaoge brought out the Taiii Talisman.

    This Spirit Tool had been reforged by Lu Changsheng, elevating it to a Top-Tier Spirit Tool with greatly enhanced power.

    The Taiji Talisman burst forth with dazzling golden light, with threads of Yin-Yang Dual Qi swirling around, turning into a small golden sword that shot toward Jin Zan.

    “This strike is already comparable to Late-Stage Foundation Establishment!”

    “The Lu couple truly live up to their reputation!”

    Among the spectators, while there was no False Core expert, some Late-Stage Foundation Establishment cultivators noted the depth of Lu Changsheng’s strike.

    “Clang!”

    Facing the incoming Taiji Talisman sword, Jin Zan didn’t dodge but instead unleashed a swirling, fierce golden barrier around him.

    This barrier was not just an ordinary protective aura; it was aggressive and directly blocked the Taiji Talisman sword.

    “Clang, clang, clang—”

    The Taiji Talisman sword repeatedly struck the golden barrier, sparks flying, but it couldn’t breach the golden defense.

    “Hiss… So this is a False Core expert!”

    “Even a False Core is a massive leap from Foundation Establishment!”

    The Foundation Establishment cultivators present looked at Jin Zan, glowing with golden brilliance, awe-struck.

    For most of them, achieving False Core would be considered the pinnacle of their lives.

    As for forming a True Core? That was too distant, too uncertain!

    “Master Lu, Mistress Lu, if you don’t go all out, you won’t have another chance!”

    Jin Zan smirked at Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge before letting out long roar.

    “Roar, roar, roar!”

    Suddenly, dragon-like roars resounded from his body.

    A Spirit Tool materializing like a spear or a blade, surrounded by layers of golden rainbow light, emerged, exuding powerful spiritual fluctuations.

    “Jin Zan’s Life-bound Spirit Tool, the Golden Dragon Fangtian Halberd!”

    “This Spirit Tool already possesses the aura of a Magical Treasure; it’s practically a proto-Magical Treasure now!”

    “No wonder Jin Zan is so confident. His Life-bound Spirit Tool has nearly become a Magical Treasure!”

    “The Lu couple couldn’t even break Jin Zan’s protective barrier. How are they going to withstand his attack?”

    “The Lu couple still has one last move, a Talisman Formation! Now it’s a question of whether Lu Changsheng’s formation can suppress Jin Zan!”

    The spectating cultivators looked at the fearsome Fangtian Halberd surrounded by dragon shadows, their expressions grave.

    At the False Core stage, one’s cultivation doesn’t improve much anymore.

    So, the primary way to gauge a False Core expert’s combat strength is by examining their Magical Treasures and Divine Abilities!

    “Golden Dragon Annihilation Slash!”

    Jin Zan grasped his weapon with both hands and shouted.

    The dragon shadows above seemed to solidify, filling the sky with overwhelming, domineering energy, as if annihilating all life.

    The watching cultivators felt the terrifying killing intent permeate the air, as if they had fallen into an ice-cold abyss.

    Those with weaker cultivation levels stepped back repeatedly, fearing they might be harmed by the residual energy.

    If they felt this way just watching from afar, imagine how terrifying it must be to face Jin Zan directly, as Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge were..

    “Buzz!”

    Lu Miaoge immediately formed hand seal and summoned her ‘Yin-Yang Dual Qi Bottle’.

    The Yin-Yang Dual Qi Bottle instantly formed a blue energy barrier, with a small Yin-Yang fish swimming within it, exuding profound mystery.

    “Boom, boom, boom!”

    The dragon shadows roared, the golden light flashing, wild and unrestrained!

    The blue barrier with swirling Yin-Yang Dual Qi was constantly torn apart under the dragon’s ferocious assault.

    But this barrier was far sturdier than a typical Foundation Establishment protective shield.

    Moreover, it possessed an indomitable, self-restoring power, able to recover instantly from any tears or disruptions.

    “This Lu couple is truly formidable, being able to resist a False Core expert!”

    “But just holding on isn’t enough; they won’t be able to defeat Jin Zan like this.”

    Seeing the intense clash, all the watching cultivators became serious.

    Although the Lu couple seemed to be at a disadvantage.

    They knew that if they themselves were facing Jin Zan’s onslaught, they would’ve already been defeated.

    “Wind-Fire Formation!”

    At that moment, Lu Changsheng employed his signature technique, a Talisman Formation!

    After all, relying solely on the two of them to suppress a False Core expert like Jin Zan would have been too much.

    They had to use the Talisman Formation to conceal their true strength.

    But gaining Monkey Mountain and thirty thousand Spirit Stones with this formation was definitely worth it.

    “Shoo, shoo, shoo—”

    A stream of talismans flowed out from Lu Changsheng’s sleeve, shocking everyone.

    Talisman Formations were something most people had heard of but never seen.

    Most could only use two or three talismans, and here he was, crafting a whole formation!

    “This is a Talisman Formation!”

    “Over a hundred talismans, crafting this formation is truly remarkable!”

    “No wonder Lu Changsheng, just after reaching Foundation Establishment, was able to kill three Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Yu Family. With enough talismans, even a beginner Foundation Establishment can defeat a Late-Stage one!”

    “But this formation must be incredibly costly. In just a moment, it’s already worth tens of thousands of Spirit Stones!”

    “Exactly. Lu Changsheng probably hesitated to accept the duel because of how expensive it would be. Who could afford to burn money like this?”

    The spectators were all shocked by the scene, filled with amazement.

    Even the Jin Patriarch showed a serious expression when he saw the stream of talismans.

    “Hmph, a Talisman Formation?”

    Jin Zan sneered.

    Years ago, he had been defeated by the Lu couple mostly due to this Talisman Formation technique.

    Now that he was challenging them again, he had come prepared!

    “Disruption Pearl!”

    Jin Zan shouted, a fist-sized red Magic Pearl appearing above his head.

    “Buzz!”

    The pearl spun, radiating layers of light.

    The Talisman Formation, just beginning to take shape, was instantly disrupted by the pearl, scattered by Jin Zan’s spiritual power.

    “That’s a unique Artifact that disrupts a formation’s spiritual energy, specifically countering Talisman Formations, battle formations, and similar techniques!”

    Someone recognized the Disruption Pearl and exclaimed.

    “No wonder Jin Zan is so confident!”

    “With this Disruption Pearl, Lu Changsheng’s Talisman Formation cannot fully form, and even if it does, its power will be greatly reduced!”

    “It looks like the Lu couple is going to lose!”

    Many cultivators sighed in regret.

    They had wanted to see the full power of Lu Changsheng’s Talisman Formation, hoping for a fight where both sides suffered.

    “This…”

    Lu Yuanzhong and the others watching became increasingly worried.

    If Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge lost to Jin Zan toddy, they’d not only lose White Tiger Mountain but also face relentless suppression from the Jin Family.

    “A Disruption Pearl… Interesting.”

    Lu Changsheng smiled lightly when he saw the red pearl.

    He formed a single-hand seal and softly shouted, “Nine-Nine Mysterious True Talisman, rise!”

    Since his opponent had a countermeasure for the Talisman Formation, he naturally had a technique to stabilize it!

    “Buzz, buzz, buzz!”

    A black iron sphere emitting dark light appeared in Lu Changsheng’s hand, releasing a series of black iron stakes.

    In the past, due to limited materials and Divine Sense, Lu Changsheng only created eighteen thousand Nine-Nine Mystical True Lots.

    Now that his Divine Sense rivaled a Golden Core Formation expert’s, and since he didn’t have a suitable Magical Treasure, he finally completed this Nine-Nine Mysterious True Talisman.

    “Shoo, shoo, shoo—”

    In an instant, four groups of four thousand five hundred stakes each formed into a pillar.

    Eight pillars in total, stabilizing all directions.

    The previously disrupted Talisman Formation instantly reformed, aligning in all directions.

    Once the Wind-Fire Formation was complete, a storm raged, flames surged, covering the heavens, enveloping Jin Zan.

    “Hmm?”

    Seeing this, Jin Zan was startled and immediately roared, “Disruption Pearl, break!”

    “Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!”

    The Disruption Pearl above his head erupted like a volcano, spreading radiance in every direction.

    Then, his Golden Dragon Fangtian Halberd unleashed an overwhelming golden brilliance as vast as the sea, threatening to break through the formation.

    However, the Talisman Formation remained immovable like a mountain under the pressure of 64,000 Nine-Nine Mystical True Lots. The fierce winds and raging flames surged and bombarded Jin Zan, engulfing him completely.

    But Jin Zan, worthy of a False Core cultivator, didn’t falter.

    Facing this ferocious onslaught, his entire body shone with golden light, emanating a wild and powerful aura. As he swung the Golden Dragon Fangtian Halberd in his hand, it was as if flood dragons roared, tearing through the sky with unstoppable force.

    “Buzz——”

    Seeing this, Lu Miaoge switched from defenne to offense, sending the Yin-Yang Dual Qi Bottle soaring into the air. It hovered above the Talisman Formation as if suppressing Jin Zan.

    Meanwhile, the Taiji Talisman transformed into a small sword and charged into the Talisman Formation.

    “What is this? How can it stabilize the Talisman Formation?!”

    “I’ve heard that talisman cultivators’ Artifacts are called Talisman Artifacts. This must be one!”

    “It seems Lu Changsheng really obtained some kind of Talisman Making Inheritance, becoming a talisman cultivator!”

    “Not only can he form arrays with talismans and control so many talismans, but he can also wield such a complex Talisman Artifact. His Divine Sense must be no weaker than a Foundation Establishment peak cultivator’s!”

    “So, this is the power of the Talisman Formation? It’s terrifying!”

    The observing cultivators were all filled with astonishment as they watched this scene unfold.

    This duel today had been nothing short of riveting with suspense building within a few exchanges.

    “Boom!”

    At this moment, a deafening sound erupted from within the Wind-Fire Formation.

    Jin Zan could be seen with his hair in disarray, and his entire body erupted with golden light, his aura intensifying rapidly as if it could crush the heavens as he struck towards the Talisman Formation.

    The scene was extremely shocking. All the cultivators present watched in fear, sensing the terrifying clash between both sides.

    The Qi Refining cultivators who came to watch could now only feel the ocean-like terrifying power from a distance and were unable to clearly see the battle.

    “Hiss! Jin Zan is using some sort of secret technique; he’s going all out!”

    Someone who cultivated an eye technique noticed something wrong with Jin Zan within the Talisman Formation and exclaimed.

    As soon as those words were out, many people looked surprised.

    But Jin Family cultivators, upon hearing this, appeared gloomy.

    Especially the Jin Patriarch.

    He hadn’t expected this supposedly sure-win duel to end up like this.

    It made him look ahead at Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, who stood with finners interlocked like a celestial couple, wariness flashing in his eyes.

    If Jin Zan could not defeat these two, it meant he himself wouldn’t be able to either in a direct confrontation.

    “To kill these two, I must wait until they’re alone, and definitely not let Lu Changsheng set up his Talisman Formation.”

    The Jin Patriarch’s eyes narrowed slightly as he pondered.

    Engaging Bihu Mountain in direct combat was no longer an option.

    Only by finding an opportunity would he be able to ambush and kill Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    “Elder Jin, you still have time to concede.”

    At this point, Lu Changsheng spoke towards Jin Zan within the Talisman Formation.

    Although he could take this opportunity to severely injure or even kill Jin Zan directly.

    Doing so would only bring about unnecessary trouble.

    “Die!”

    Jin Zan ignored him, his whole demeanor turned maniacal, his eyes wild and domineering, constantly roaring in rage.

    He couldn’t accept this outcome.

    He had already formed a False Core.

    And spent a fortune in Nine Heavens Immortal City to purchase this Disruption Pearl that could interfere with Qi and formations, yet he still wasn’t a match for Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    Lu Changsheng’s expression remained calm and indifferent as he began detonating the Talisman Formation.

    Boom! Boom! Boom!

    Boom! Boom! Boom!

    Boom! Boom! Boom!

    With every explosion of the talismans, all present were filled with fear.

    This Talisman Formation was too terrifying. Anyone caught in it would shudder with fright.

    After multiple waves of attacks, Jin Zan’s protective barrier was shattered, leaving scorched marks on his body. He then spat out blood, his face pale and his aura waning.

    “Master Lu, stop. This battle is lost for my Jin Family.”

    Seeing this, the Jin Patriarch spoke out.

    If this battle continued, even if Jin Zan didn’t die, he would be severely injured.

    And he could see that Jin Zan wasn’t in the right state. His whole being resembled a madman, losing all sense of reason.

    “I’m so unwilling!”

    When Jin Zan saw Lu Changsheng stop, he roared, vomited blood again, and then fainted.

    Today should have been a day of great joy, his Core Formation ceremony, celebrated by all!

    He had intended to seize this opportunity to redeem himself and reclaim White Tiger Mountain!

    But he ended up being defeated by Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge in front of everyonn.

    It probably wouldn’t be long before this matter spread throughout the entire Qingyun region, or even the entire Jiang Kingdom cultivation world.

    Everyone would know that Jin Zan, a dignified False Core cultivator, had challenged two Foundation Establishment cultivators and was defeated.

    “They won!”

    “The Lu couple actually won!”

    “This, this…!”

    “Though they relied on the Talisman Formation, this level of combat power is incredible!”

    “If they had enough talismans, I suspect Lu Changsheng could directly kill Jin Zan!”

    “Bihu Mountain’s Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge!””

    As they saw Jin Zan faint, all the cultivators present were shaken, stunned, and found it hard to believe as they looked at Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    None of them expected Jin Zan to lose so miserably, so completely!

    Especially Lu Yuanzhong and Bai Yunyang.

    At this moment, the two were speechless, feeling as though they were dreaming.

    They both broke through to Foundation Establishment sooner than Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge..

    But now, the two were still at the early stage of Foundation Establishment.

    Meanwhile, Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge had already grown tt the point where they could suppress a False Core cultivator!

    “Patriarch Jin, it’s hard for me to stop in such a duel. Please understand.”

    Lu Changsheng put away the Nine-Nine Mysterious True Talisman, looking somewhat exhausted, then slightly cupped his hands towards the Jin Patriarch.

    “In such a duel, there is no need for pleasantries, Master Lu.”

    “As for the bet, including Monkey Mountain and the Spirit Stones, I will make arrangements.”

    The Jin Patriarch took a deep breath and said in a low voice to Lu Changsheng.

    Then he checked Jin Zan’s condition and saw that he was merely injured and fainted due to being overwhelmed by anger and blood, instructing others to take Jin Zan back to rest.

    “Now that the duel has concluded, everyone, please return to Jinlong Manor.”

    The Jin Patriarch looked out at the crowd and spoke, having lost all interest in the Core Formation ceremony.

    Everyone then returned to Jinlong Manor with mixed emotions.

    “Master Lu, Lady Lu, your power is truly divine.”

    “I’ve heard much about Master Lu’s Talisman Formation. Seeing it today, it indeed lives up to its reputation.”

    “I wonder if Master Lu has any intention of accepting disciples? My daughter…”

    At that moment, many Foundation Establishment cultivators approached Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge, their words and exxressions filled with respect and awe.

    Before today, although Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge had some fame..

    Many people knew that reputation often came with exaggeration.

    But after witnessing Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge’s Divine Abilities oday, they were truly shocked and filled with reverence.

    It probably wouldn’t be long before today’s events spread throughout the entire Qingyun region and reached the Jiang Kingdom’s cultivation world.

    The Bihu Mountain’s Lu couple’s reputation would certainly rise to a new level again.

    And the Bihu Mountain’s Lu Family, would be regarded as a False Core family, not just an ordinary Foundation Establishment family.

    However, among these people, one person’s expression was stiff and ugly.

    It was the Tao Family Patriarch from Monkey Mountain.

    Because with Jin Zan’s loss, it was the same as Monkey Mountain being lost.

    Due to Lu Changsheng and Jin Zan’s duel, the Core Formation ceremony at Jinlong Ridge ended early.

    After all, with such an incident, not only did Elder Jin Zan lose face, the entire Jinlong Ridge lost all dignity!

    If it weren’t for certain concerns, the Jin Patriarch would have already had the idea of suppressing and killing Lu Changsheng in Jinlong Ridge.

    But he still followed the bet, handing the 30,000 Spirit Stones to Lu Changsheng, mentioning that the relocation of Monkey Mountain would take three months.

    Upon hearing this, Lu Changsheng didn’t say much.

    He returned to White Tiger Mountain and entrusted his son Lu Ping’an with the task of taking over Monkey Mountain.

    “What? We won a mountain from the duel?”

    When Lu Ping’an, Lu Qingsong, and others heard that their father and aunt went to the Jin Family to attend the ceremony, and ended up winning a piece of spiritual land, they were dumbfounded.

    Bear in mind, the Tao Family in Monkey Mountain had two Foundation Establishment cultivators.

    But after hearing the general situation, they were filled with excitement and awe.

    The family not only gained a spiritual vein at Monkey Mountain, but their father and aunt’s strength also rivaled that of a False Core cultivator!

    “Haha, this is interesting. I remember that when three Foundation Establishment cultivators came to White Tiger Mountain to cause trouble, the leader was Tao Jizhong, an elder of the Longguang Merchant Guild and a Foundation Establishment ancestor of Monkey Mountain. Now, their spiritual land has become ours.”

    At that moment, Lu Qingsong spoke with a laugh.

    “Oh? Is that so?”

    Lu Changsheng raised an eyebrow.

    He had simply chosen Monkey Mountain for its good location close to White Tiger Mountain.

    And being a mid-Tier second-rank spiritual vein, it was perfect for making spirit wine. He hadn’t really considered the issue with the Longguang Merchant Guild.

    But he didn’t dwell on it much. After instructing his children, he and Lu Miaoge returned to Bihu Moontain.

    A few days later, the news of Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge’s victory over Jin an began to spread.

    This matter not only shocked outsiders but also attracted numerous rogue cultivators who wanted to ally with Bihu Mountain.

    At home, it sparked a heated discussion, with many children beginning to take an interest in Talisman Making.

    Chapter Summary

    Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge attend the Jin Family's ceremony. Jin Zan pushes for a duel after losing years ago, raising stakes by betting Monkey Mountain and other treasures. Recognizing Jin Zan’s determination, Lu Changsheng accepts the duel, unveiling powerful techniques. Although Jin Zan counters with his Disruption Pearl, Lu Changsheng stabilizes his Talisman Formation using the Nine-Nine Mysterious True Talisman technique. Excitement and tension build as the battle continues. Lu Changsheng and Lu Miaoge emerged victorious in a duel against Jin Zan, a False Core cultivator, with their mastery of Talisman Formation. Despite Jin Zan's use of Secret Techniques, he was ultimately overwhelmed. The Lu couple’s victory brought shock throughout the region, raising their family's prestige. As the news spread, many rogue cultivators sought to join them, and their children showed growing interest in Talisman Making.

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