Chapter 701: What Is the Lu Family’s Purpose This Time?

“Are you challenging me to a duel?”

Lu Wangshu cast a sidelong glance at Shangguan Poyun, who stood next to Zilei Zhenren, furrowing her beautifully shaped brows. Then she said flatly, “I’ve dedicated myself to studying talismans these past few years. I’m not skilled in combat, so let’s forget it.”

For her, sparring with practitioners of the same level held no value; it simply felt like bullying.

In her earlier years, when Ancestor Shangguan came to Bihu Mountain for a dispute, he at least had prepared some rewards.

This Zilei Zhenren showed no indication; naturally, she wouldn’t agree.

Not only would it waste her talismans and magical energy, but if she were to shatter the opponent’s mentality, it would also offend the Shangguan family for no good reason.

Though her own family was fearless, Lu Wangshu, like Lu Changsheng, disliked trouble.

“Hmm?”

Zilei Zhenren and Shangguan Poyun were momentarily taken aback. They hadn’t expected Lu Wangshu to refuse so decisively.

After all, most talented individuals carried a sense of pride.

Generally, when faced with a challenge, they would accept.

Especially the exchanges between geniuses in combat, which benefit both parties’ progress.

However, both were perceptive and sensed Lu Wangshu’s nonchalance in her tone and expression.

It was as if this talented individual, hailed as the best hope of the Shangguan family to form a core, wasn’t even worth her time.

“If you win, this “Thunder Fire Talisman” is yours.”

Shangguan Poyun flipped his palm, revealing a deep purple porcelain bottle, his expression cold.

In typical duels between practitioners, stakes or rewards are rarely involved.

It’s only in cases where a lower-ranking individual challenges a higher-ranking one, or when the loser seeks to challenge the winner, that they offer treasures as stakes.

In their earlier sparring session, if not for the Ancestor intervening, he might have faced a tragic defeat at Lu Wangshu’s hands.

Over the years, honing his knife intent, he had always viewed Lu Wangshu as the last stone to sharpen his blade, striving for Core Formation!”Boyun!”

Seeing this, Zilei Zhenren immediately scolded in a low voice.

In front of Lu Miaoge and Lu Ping’an, even if he wanted to spar, he couldn’t be too domineering or aggressive.

Moreover, this “Thunder Fire Talisman,” refined from the mysterious fire of Yinxuan and the purple lightning of the Shangguan family, was among the finest items for forming a core.

When attempting Core Formation, he could use the “Divine Thunder Sword Technique” to create a thunderous momentum that significantly increased his chances of forming a core. It was incredibly rare.

Yet, he had directly used this most precious item for a wager without considering previous instructions!”Thunder Fire Talisman?”

Although Lu Wangshu wasn’t aware of the specific quality, the cheapest items for forming a core still cost tens of thousands of Spirit Stones.

Many disciples of the Lu family who practiced fire and thunder techniques could exchange this talisman for merit points at home.

“Wow!”

Seeing this, Lu Qingqi and Lu Qingye thought, how easy it was for their sister to make money.

Invitations to duel even began with talismans as rewards.

If it were them, they might not earn this much Spirit Stones even in ten years.

“In that case, I can accept. However, since my primary focus is on talismans and puppetry, I’m not skilled in combat. Is it okay if I use a few puppets?”

Lu Wangshu said with a charming smile, her beauty radiating.

“As long as it’s friendly sparring, I suppose it’s acceptable for a talisman practitioner to use external tools, as long as you don’t deploy an excessive amount of talismans.”

Zilei Zhenren immediately added.

In the Jiang Kingdom’s cultivation circle, who didn’t recognize Lu Changsheng, the illustrious ancestor of the Talisman Lu family? His talent in Talisman Art was unparalleled, and not long after breaking through to Core Formation, he could already draw third-tier talismans.

With that in mind, there was no way Lu Wangshu, as the favored daughter of Changsheng Zhenren and Xiyue Fairy, would lack a few third-tier talismans.

If Lu Wangshu were to use third-tier talismans, even if Shangguan Poyun was extraordinarily talented, he wouldn’t stand a chance.

Even without the third-tier talismans provided by Changsheng Zhenren, with the reputation of a genius talisman master, possessing dozens of second-tier talismans would still render Shangguan Poyun powerless.

It can only be said that wealthy talisman masters are indeed a tough match within the same rank.

“Don’t worry; I won’t use the talismans to set up the formations.”

Lu Wangshu smiled brightly, her red lips slightly tilted.

She had no intention of using her current talismans during this sparring.

“Alright.”

Shangguan Poyun’s expression remained stern; he knew that if Lu Wangshu unleashed a flurry of talismans, he wouldn’t stand a chance against her without a surprise attack.

Before coming, he had been instructed at home about this.

“I remember there’s a combat arena in Nine Heavens Immortal City. Shall we head there now?”

Lu Wangshu continued, her mood appearing quite good.

“Sure.”

Shangguan Poyun’s eyes ignited with a hint of battle intent.

After twenty years, he was finally ready to avenge his past misfortunes!”Wangshu, be careful. This individual radiates energy and spirit with a knife-like intent that’s yet to be unleashed.

Though Lu Ping’an had confidence in Lu Wangshu, he still advised her.

After all, Shangguan Poyun, who stood before them, could be regarded as a seed of the Divine Blade Shangguan family, exceptional and far from ordinary.

Especially with a trace of sharp knife intent exuding from him, he was undoubtedly above average among practitioners of the same rank.

Even if Lu Wangshu, a talisman practitioner, also practiced body refinement, getting close would be quite troublesome.

“Thank you, elder brother.”

Lu Wangshu smiled radiantly, showing her confidence.

Then, the group made their way to the arena in the Nine Heavens Immortal City.

Even though Nine Heavens Immortal City was the first immortal city in the Jiang Kingdom, when a few Foundation Establishment practitioners began a duel, it became quite lively.

At that moment, Lu Wangshu and Shangguan Poyun’s group attracted gasps and discussions from many who had gathered to watch.

After all, the Divine Blade Shangguan family was a core family under the Heavenly Sword Sect, with numerous interests in Nine Heavens Immortal City.

Years ago, Shangguan Poyun had challenged many renowned geniuses and even held competitions in Nine Heavens Immortal City, gaining quite a reputation.

As for Zilei Zhenren, there was even less need to elaborate.

Even if the fame of Changsheng Zhenren from the Talisman Lu family overshadowed Zilei Zhenren, more people in Nine Heavens Immortal City recognized the Divine Blade Shangguan family.

“What’s going on? Is Shangguan Poyun about to spar with someone again?”

“Even Zilei Zhenren has come forward; who are these people?”

“That seems to be the Talisman Lu family’s young lady, the talisman fairy Lu Wangshu!”

“Wow, she’s from the renowned Talisman Lu family!”

“What sort of conflict could arise between the Shangguan family and the Lu family?”

Amidst the respectful, awed, and infatuated gazes of countless cultivators, Zilei Zhenren spoke a few words to the arena manager, and soon, the first arena’s formation lit up, allowing Lu Wangshu and Shangguan Poyun to ascend.

“Lu Wangshu from the Talisman Lu family? I see it’s her sparring against Shangguan Poyun!”

“Is she the perfect successor to Changsheng Zhenren’s talisman lineage? With such beauty and talent. If anyone could marry her, it might save them a century of hard work!”

“Rumor has it that she recently formed her foundation and killed several Foundation Establishment practitioners using formations. Her combat strength is astonishing!”

“As a talisman practitioner, she leans on the talismans given by Changsheng Zhenren, so her combat power is impressive, but such sparring won’t be that simple.”

“You can’t say that. Talisman arts depend on the practitioner. Some can create formations with ease, while others require extensive time to cast spells.”

“Shangguan Poyun’s Divine Thunder Sword Technique has already reached a minor level. If he seizes the initiative, this Lu fairy may not get a chance to respond.”

Within Nine Heavens Immortal City, there were quite a number of veteran Foundation Establishment practitioners who were observing and commenting on the duel.

“Auntie, do you think Wangshu will win?”

Originally, Lu Qingqi held strong confidence in her sister.

However, seeing Zilei Zhenren’s calm demeanor and the surrounding spectators favoring Shangguan Poyun, she couldn’t help but ask worriedly.

“Don’t worry.”

Lu Miaoge replied, her demeanor calm as water.

Others may not be aware, but she knew a bit about Lu Wangshu’s situation.

Although her cultivation was only at the eighth level of Foundation Establishment, not as impressive as Shangguan Poyun’s.

With the Xuanyuan Pearl, her magical energy could rival any Foundation Establishment practitioner.

In addition to talismans, she also had puppets, unique treasures, and second-tier body refinement techniques among her many means.

If she went all out, few in the same rank could match her.

“Go for it, sister!”

Lu Linghe immediately cheered for her sister, raising her fists in encouragement.

Lu Qingqi and the others also became cheerleaders at that moment.

As the duel began, countless cultivators directed their attention toward the beautiful Lu Wangshu, their eyes filled with admiration and awe.

However, upon meeting Lu Miaoge and Lu Ping’an’s expressions, they dared not stare for long, fearing disapproval.

Before long, the two on the stage began their duel.

An earnest look graced Lu Wangshu’s charming, radiant face as she summoned her treasured talisman, transforming it into an umbrella-like form that swirled above her head.

Shangguan Poyun slightly cupped his hands before attacking with his thunder knife in a fierce posture.

With arcs of lightning crackling along the blade, it expanded to a length of around ten feet, resembling a roaring thunder dragon, exuding immense intimidation.

Through their previous sparring sessions and years of understanding, he knew he absolutely couldn’t give Lu Wangshu any breathing room as a talisman practitioner.

“Shangguan Poyun’s Divine Thunder Sword Technique has improved!”

“After all, he’s a seed of the Shangguan family aiming for Core Formation; if he succeeds, the Divine Blade Shangguan family will possess three more cultivators!”

Some veteran Foundation Establishment practitioners voiced their astonishment.

A complex and mysterious array of symbols appeared between Lu Wangshu’s fair eyebrows. Her hair flowed without wind, and the umbrella hovered in front of her as her delicate fingers lightly lifted to draw talismans in the air.

As the knife energy approached, a bracelet embedded with six-colored gemstones on her pure white wrist suddenly erupted in brilliance.

Thunder and mist enveloped the area, and a shield resembling rippling water formed, shielding her from harm.

“Clang! Clang! Clang!!!”

Shangguan Poyun’s knife struck the umbrella, producing a resounding clang, while an onslaught of knife energy surged against the water shield, relentlessly fracturing it.

“Hiss! She’s simultaneously drawing talismans and controlling two magical weapons!”

“Is this what they call void talisman drawing?”

“Indeed, a hundred hearsay can’t compare to seeing it firsthand; such talisman techniques are astonishing!”

Seeing Lu Wangshu’s methods, many gasped in astonishment.

Aside from the Talisman Lu family, there weren’t many exceptional talisman practitioners in the Jiang Kingdom.

Many people’s understanding of talismans was limited to books and hearsay.

Thus, Lu Wangshu’s talents opened many eyes.

On stage, Shangguan Poyun’s imposing aura surged, and his thunder knife quivered violently, like a thunderbolt illuminating the heavens.

Faced with such relentless attacks, Lu Wangshu couldn’t use her previously drawn talismans and puppets and had to defend passively.

However, as she finished drawing her first talisman in the void, her slender fingers flicked, and the divine patterns on her forehead shone with radiance, causing the talisman to split as it began multiplying and launching towards Shangguan Poyun.

Over the years, Shangguan Poyun had not only challenged others but also established arenas while honing his knife intent through actual battles.

In facing Lu Wangshu’s tactics, he relied on instinct, slicing through her talismans and making it difficult for her to set up formations.

Yet, Lu Wangshu’s void talisman drawing seemed endless, and for a moment, they entered a stalemate.

“Huh? Why isn’t sister using any other spells or puppets?”

Though Lu Qingqi wasn’t fully aware of Lu Wangshu’s true strength, having previously seen her fish with explosives at Da Mengze and her sparring sessions with Lu Lingxiao.

So after watching for a moment, she realized something was amiss; her sister hadn’t gone all out!

However, upon noticing her aunt and elder brother’s calm expressions, and Zilei Zhenren’s proximity, she quickly guessed the reason.

If the battle ended shortly, it wouldn’t just embarrass the Shangguan family; they wouldn’t come challenging her sister again.

If the duel was evenly matched and she managed to defeat her opponent, it would not only save face for the Shangguan family but could also lead to further invitations to duel for more talisman items! After remaining in a stalemate for a quarter of an hour, Lu Wangshu lightly tapped her storage pouch, causing four metallic puppets, gleaming with a deep luster, to emerge.

“Puppets! Four second-tier puppets!”

Someone exclaimed in astonishment.

“She’s even using puppets! Five against one! This isn’t even a fair match!”

“As a talisman master, this Lu fairy would be in serious danger once someone got close, so having puppets nearby makes sense.”

“These puppets should be at least second-tier, right? Truly wealthy!”

“Obviously, she’s a talisman practitioner, and her parents are Core Formation true practitioners. She must have plenty of money. Who knows, there might be third-tier talismans or puppets in her storage pouch!”

Many cultivators looked enviously at the refined, exquisite, and ethereal Lu Wangshu, who stood there with flowing hair.

Not only was her talent exceptional, but her looks were divine, and her family background was among the very best, leaving many envious!”Divine Thunder Sword Technique!”

Shangguan Poyun, having witnessed Lu Wangshu’s puppets and talisman abilities, knew he couldn’t break through her defenses, so he decided to reveal everything.

At that moment, without holding back, he unleashed his entire knife intent; his thunder knife exploded in an intense force, stretching out to an intimidating length of two or three zhang, his aura overwhelming, rivaling a False Core practitioner! Faced with such a daunting presence, Lu Wangshu dared not hold back either.

Somewhat regretfully, she commanded her puppets to charge forward, while the talismans that had formed in the void vibrated and shot forward simultaneously.

“Boom!”

At the same time, the bracelet on her pure white wrist made crisp ringing sounds like a bell, bursting forth with dazzling light.

This bracelet, as a top-tier extraordinary item, hadn’t shown its true capabilities until now.

Now that she activated it with all her might, even Shangguan Poyun, as a knife practitioner, faced some fatigue, and his magical energy became chaotic.

Seizing that gap, Lu Wangshu quickly formed a talisman array with both hands, launching it outward to suppress Shangguan Poyun.

“Boom! Boom! Boom!”

Shangguan Poyun’s knife intent and spirit coalesced resiliently, embodying a tenacious will that refused to yield.

However, Lu Miaoge, Lu Ping’an, Zilei Zhenren, and some observing Foundation Establishment practitioners could all see that Shangguan Poyun was starting to falter.

He had begun on the offensive but was now on the back foot; if he couldn’t break through Lu Wangshu’s onslaught, a comeback appeared almost impossible.

“This talisman fairy is impressive! Using only her own methods and puppets, she has managed to suppress Shangguan Poyun without even employing the famed talisman sea strategy.”

“Using puppets doesn’t make it a fair fight.”

“Dueling has never been about fairness. Years ago, Shangguan Poyun set up an arena here, and the techniques he practiced were supported by the Shangguan family’s made magic tools.”

Among the spectators, some felt that even if Lu Wangshu won, it wouldn’t truly count as a victory, while others believed that winning is winning; family background and resources are indeed a part of one’s strength.

Surely, you can’t expect someone to have quality items and still face you on equal terms?

“I admit defeat.”

After another fifteen minutes of stalemate, Shangguan Poyun recognized that unless he cast his ultimate abilities, such as the ‘Magic Blade Technique’ or ‘Blood Burning Blade’, he wouldn’t be able to counter Lu Wangshu’s attack.

But in a sparring match, unless there was genuine enmity, they wouldn’t fight to the death.

With both Lu Miaoge and Zilei Zhenren present, if they started an intense fight, they would be stopped immediately.

Besides, he could sense Lu Wangshu still had strength and tricks left.

Even if he used his life-endangering knife technique, he still couldn’t ensure a certain victory.

If he were to lose under those circumstances, his status as the core seed of the Shangguan family would no doubt diminish.

“I concede.”

Upon hearing this, Lu Wangshu, who seemed somewhat fatigued, clasped her hands in thanks.

Then she collected her slightly damaged puppet.

She typically disliked sparring with others; her approach to combat was always money-intensive.

“Lack of skill on my part. I’ll challenge you again another day.”

Shangguan Poyun, much like his predecessor, the once great Ancestor Shangguan, took his defeat with dignity, casting the “Thunder Fire Talisman” toward Lu Wangshu.

Yet, even as his gaze shifted, there was a hint of sadness.

After all, he had spent a great deal of time earning this “Thunder Fire Talisman” years ago.

Zilei Zhenren looked at the somewhat weary Shangguan Poyun as he stepped down from the stage and asked, “Boyun, do you want me to help you get that talisman back?”

This Thunder Fire Talisman could increase Shangguan Poyun’s chances of Core Formation by one and a half times.

But for other practitioners of thunder or fire attributes, it might just provide a one-time chance.

“Thank you, Uncle. However, having lost this battle shows I need more honing; I’ll find another one in the future.”

Shangguan Poyun maintained a calm demeanor; his spirit had not been crushed.

If he were so easily broken, he wouldn’t have developed to his current level.

Now that he recognized his shortcomings, all that was left was to work harder.

As for the lost Core Formation item, it would serve as a motivation for his future training!”Good! That’s the spirit of my Shangguan family’s prodigy!”

Zilei Zhenren, upon hearing this, patted his shoulder. He couldn’t help but feel a mix of admiration and envy as he approached and clasped his hands, saying, “Changsheng Zhenren and Miaoge Zhenren truly know how to raise their children. The progeny from your family is indeed remarkable.”

“You praise me too highly.”

Lu Miaoge softly replied, exuding a graceful presence, engaging in polite conversation.

Then, as the host, Zilei Zhenren invited Lu Miaoge and Lu Wangshu’s group to dine at the most luxurious restaurant in Nine Heavens Immortal City, showcasing his hospitality.

Though the two had arrived intending to immediately spar with Lu Wangshu, they maintained their composure, so Lu Miaoge did not refuse.

“I heard you’re in town because of the matters between the Li family of Xiaoya Mountain and the Zhao family of Moyu Mountain. My Shangguan family has some influence in this area. If you need assistance, we can help you out.”

During the meal, Zilei Zhenren expressed goodwill towards Lu Miaoge and the others.

As fellow families of core formation, everyone preferred to forge good relations and build networks when there were no deep feuds.

By helping the Lu family this time, the Shangguan family might find the Lu family’s assistance in future matters, particularly involving the Azure Cloud Sect.

Additionally, the Talisman Lu family’s ascension was unstoppable.

Not only was Ancestor Lu Changsheng a third-tier master talisman craftsman, but he also served as the deputy lord of Immortal City of Damengze. Even with the old-fashioned Shangguan family being a prominent core family, they were willing to do a few favors now.

Additionally, simply being a third-tier talisman master granted many core formation practitioners the opportunity to cultivate relationships, offering their goodwill to have talismans made and purchased.

Lu Miaoge shared a glance with Li Xingruo beside her and said gracefully, “It’s resolved, so there is no need to trouble the noble family.”

“Glad to hear it.”

Zilei Zhenren smiled, choosing not to delve deeper into the matter.

However, after the meal, he inquired whether the Lu family had any third-tier talismans for sale.

Though the Shangguan family had channels for purchasing third-tier talismans, what family would turn down the opportunity for more talismans, whether it’s pills or talismans? Consequently, Lu Miaoge sold him ten third-tier lower-grade talismans.

Currently, aside from Lu Changsheng, she and Lu Wangshu were the only third-tier talisman masters in the family.

Over the years, Lu Changsheng had been extremely busy. Other than the occasional talismans he had time to draw, most of the third-tier lower-grade talismans sold were crafted by Lu Wangshu.

At times, she even had to consult Lu Wangshu regarding talisman crafting techniques.

“Thank you, Miaoge Zhenren.”

After completing the talisman transaction, Zilei Zhenren appeared pleased, departing with Shangguan Poyun, assuring them that they could contact the Shangguan family for any issues.

In the following days, many in the immortal city discussed the duel between Lu Wangshu and Shangguan Poyun.

“The Talisman Lu family lives up to its name; this talisman fairy’s void talisman drawing technique is astonishing!”

“Indeed, and she hasn’t even used the talisman sea strategy, known to be unbeatable at the same level.”

“However, it relied on puppets; without those four second-tier puppets, she wouldn’t have been a match for Shangguan Poyun.”

“With this fairy’s talent, she will likely succeed in forming a core in the future!”

“She certainly will! Years ago, Changsheng Zhenren was able to earn a Condensing Crystal Pill for his wife, Lu Miaoge, through the war. As his daughter, the successor of Changsheng Zhenren’s talisman art, and the daughter of Xiyue Zhenren from the Azure Cloud Sect, she will surely obtain a Condensing Crystal Pill to pursue Core Formation!”

“If this Fairy Wangshu breaks through to Core Formation, the Talisman Lu family could end up with four cultivators at that stage!”

“That might not be all; accompanying her this time is Lu Ping’an, the Talisman Lu family’s eldest son who has been missing for over thirty years! His sudden return likely signals he might be on the verge of Core Formation as well!”

“Is that possible? I recall Lu Ping’an’s talents in body refinement, but his Qi Refining skills were merely average. Moreover, he cultivates both body and Qi; it seems unlikely he would break through to Core Formation this soon; however, he is likely nearing the third-tier body refinement stage!”

“Hmm, what’s the Talisman Lu family aiming to accomplish on this journey? Is Lady Miaoge and the long-lost Lu Ping’an coordinating some significant affair?”

“I heard they’re helping Changsheng Zhenren’s two concubines resolve their grievances and seek justice.”

“Those are grievances of such caliber! Does it even warrant Lady Miaoge to take a trip? It’s not like there aren’t many willing to help these matters if Changsheng Zhenren simply states his wishes!”

As discussions continued, the topics gradually shifted from Lu Wangshu and Shangguan Poyun to the Talisman Lu family and Lu Ping’an.

After all, many believed that grievances like Li Xingruo’s were hardly significant enough for a Core Formation true practitioner to intervene.

Especially since besides Lu Miaoge, Lu Ping’an and Lu Wangshu were the pillars of the Lu family, unmistakably involved in some significant affairs.

As they had, after enjoying several days in Nine Heavens Immortal City, Lu Miaoge and Lu Ping’an, along with Lu Wangshu, soon set off to the Heavenly Sword Sect for a proposal.

Meanwhile, Li Xingruo also intended to scout for several shops in Nine Heavens Immortal City to manage certain Lu family affairs, so she didn’t travel with them.