Daoist Competition

Chapter 908: Chapter 194: Fragrance Rises to Shroud the Star River, Ropes Twist in the Wind to Change Heaven’s Face

Liang Changgong had been searching everywhere for Qingcang Wood in recent days, and some people, on account of his reputation, sent him two trees, but it was merely a drop in the bucket. He had no choice but to accept the favor.

Just as he was troubled by this matter, Hua Zhaofang came to visit, bringing along the twenty-four Qingcang Woods and explained the situation. Finally, he added, "This matter was handled poorly by me. I am truly ashamed, thankful that True Master Zhang did not hold it against me. To show my apology, I am willing to cover all the costs of refining treasures. However, I hope you two will allow me to observe the process as a token of my sincere request for guidance."

Liang Changgong had not expected Hua Zhaofang to have this intention, and he hesitated.

After all, the latter was a skilled master in this field. Observing the refining process might not allow him to learn all the secrets, but he would likely glean many details. Troubled, he said, "I cannot decide this matter alone; I need to discuss it with Daoist Wei."

Hua Zhaofang could guess Liang Changgong’s concerns, so he seriously said, "Daoist Liang, please do not worry. I have no hidden agenda. If allowed, I am willing to take an Oath not to disclose anything heard or seen. What do you think?"

Liang Changgong was somewhat surprised; with such assurance, it was easier to agree. He pondered for a long while, then nodded and ordered a servant to invite Wei Shudan over.

North and South Moon Peaks are close, and Wei Shudan arrived within moments. Entering the residence, he was surprised to see Hua Zhaofang and understood only after Liang Changgong explained the whole story.

After pondering for a moment, he finally said, "In my opinion, this matter can be agreed upon. However, I have a condition that I hope Hua Daoist can fulfill."

Hua Zhaofang expressed his delight and said, "Please, Brother Daoist, tell me."

Wei Shudan glanced at Liang Changgong, then clasped his hands at Hua Zhaofang and gravely said, "I would like our names to be included in Your Excellency’s Refining Treasure Record."

Liang Changgong was taken aback, and then his body shook with excitement.

Having no hope in the Great Dao, he achieved some success only in Artifact Refining. But once he passed away, everything would fade away like Wind Flow.

However, publishing a book in the world would make his name eternal, benefitting countless future generations, and a new chance for Enlightenment would be much greater than for ordinary people.

Wei Shudan made a savvy decision. Even if their Secret Techniques were learned, leaving such a book would not be a loss but rather an advantage.

Hua Zhaofang frowned, hesitating. He had spent over a century of effort and had worked hard on this Treasure Record, while these two would benefit without lifting a finger. It made him somewhat reluctant.

However, he was the one in need, so how could he not pay a price?

He could take back the Qingcang Wood, but that would only lead to a complete severance, and Zhang Yan might not be as forgiving as last time.

Thinking of his lifetime wishes, he sighed, setting aside his selfish desires. He said solemnly, "Fine! I agree to your request and will have your names penned in by the writer."

Wei Shudan and Liang Changgong exchanged a glance and both smiled.

They finally cast aside this burden, no longer tossing and turning with sleepless nights as before.

After seeing Hua Zhaofang off, Wei Shudan suddenly sighed and said, "Brother Liang, this time True Master Zhang did not expose our deceit, which is considerate of our dignity."

Liang Changgong stopped smiling and, after a moment of silence, said, "I am not an ungrateful person, but I have to use all my skills in return."

Wei Shudan nodded silently in agreement.

After returning to their residence, they first declined all other matters and settled beside the Heavenly Pit, awaiting the time to start the Heavenly Furnace.

Upon hearing this, Hua Zhaofang also came to discuss Refining Skill with them.

The three were all considered masters in this field, though their schools differed. In discussion, each had insights to share.

Five months passed peacefully like this, and by early autumn, as the cool breeze rustled and the vegetation withered, when the cold boats crossed the river, the day to fire the furnace and refine treasures came again.

At dawn, Zhang Yan, wearing a Daoist robe, floated in with the wind from the Dao Palace, landing before the Earth Fire Sky Furnace to gather with the three once more.

After exchanging greetings, Liang Changgong first spoke, "True Master Zhang, the upcoming refining must be done in One Qi Breath and cannot be interrupted in the middle. According to our calculations, it will take four years. However, the external Qi Veins flow must remain unbroken; otherwise, all will be lost, and this will require Your Excellency’s careful attention."