CHAPTER 158: CHAPTER 26: DEPARTURE FOR WUYUN CITY

After the master-acceptance ceremony ended, people from other sects gradually left the Lingxi Sacred Land, and the once-bustling Lingxi Sacred Land returned to tranquility. Gu Qingqing’s life also returned to calm. Every day, if not cultivating, she would spar with Yun Ran or take a stroll through the market.

Zhuo Tingqiu did not leave with the people from Qiuyang Palace but stayed in the Lingxi Sacred Land, preparing to go on an adventure with Gu Qingqing later.

Jun Wu also stayed behind, having decided firmly to linger by Gu Qingqing’s side.

Wen Guiyun had already heard about Jun Wu’s intentions from Yue Zhao and the others. He hinted to Jun Yutian more than once to take Jun Wu away, but was blocked each time, making Wen Guiyun harbor some dislike towards Jun Wu.

On this day, while Gu Qingqing was sparring with Yun Ran, she suddenly received a message from Wen Guiyun, requesting that they gather at the Lingxi Hall. She quickly tidied up and headed to Lingxi Hall.

Upon arrival, she found that besides herself, Si Lin and others were also present, as well as several hall masters of Lingxi Sacred Land and their disciples.

After saluting Wen Guiyun and the others, she stood to the side, listening to Wen Guiyun and a few hall masters converse.

"We’ve just received word that many of our disciples have gone missing in Wuyun City of Canglan Prefecture. The situation doesn’t look good. I plan to send disciples to investigate. This counts as a small adventure. In addition to my six disciples, the hall masters also need to send disciples," Wen Guiyun said in a deep voice, his gaze sweeping over the other hall masters and disciples as he sat at the head of the table.

"Luo Ming is in seclusion, so let’s send Cheng Hao." Yao Leming stroked his beard and said with a smile.

"Qi Yu and Qin An will go with Si Lin and the others." Zhao Tonghai touched his head, his voice loud and clear.

"Then let’s have Xian’er and Zhao Yan go along," Ye Shenglan decided immediately after a glance at Lin Xian’er standing beside her.

"I’ll send Qu Ye to join as well. He’s due for an advancement anyway," Lan Chi said, casting a glance at the man beside him.

The disciples whose names were mentioned stepped forward, each standing by their master’s side.

"I accept the order," the disciples responded.

"For this mission to Wuyun City, all actions are to be directed by Si Lin. The journey may bear dangers, so do not act on your own. Depart early tomorrow morning, and return as soon as possible," Wen Guiyun cautioned, his sharp gaze sweeping over everyone.

"Understood, we will follow the Saint Master’s command!" the group replied, their expressions turning solemn.

After issuing his instructions, Wen Guiyun dismissed everyone to prepare, instructing them to gather in front of the Lingxi Hall the following morning.

The four hall masters departed with their disciples, leaving only Wen Guiyun and the six disciples of Si Lin in the Lingxi Hall.

"Si Lin, on this trip to Wuyun City, you must be cautious. According to the information we’ve received, the situation in Wuyun City is likely not simple. If you encounter danger, you must protect your fellow disciples, and don’t forget to send word back to the Sacred Land!" Even knowing Si Lin’s reliability, Wen Guiyun couldn’t help reminding him.

"Rest assured, Master; I know what to do," Si Lin nodded, immediately assuring Wen Guiyun of his attitude.

"Master, what exactly is happening in Wuyun City?" Yue Zhao couldn’t help but ask directly, given Wen Guiyun’s grave demeanor, prompting further speculation.

"Currently, the news suggests that a Demon Cultivator has appeared in Wuyun City, and this Demon Cultivator’s cultivation is quite advanced. That’s why disciples from our sect have been disappearing one after another. Originally, Master Zhao was to investigate, but the seal we guard at Lingxi Sacred Land has developed issues. Several hall masters and I need to strengthen it, so I am sending you in our place. You must be careful!" Knowing Yue Zhao and the others were sensible, Wen Guiyun did not hide the truth from them.

Hearing this, Si Lin and the others’ expressions shifted slightly; the seriousness of the situation was unexpected. Despite their concern, there was also a hint of excitement since they all had a natural inclination for adventure, finding challenges in their training thrilling.

"We understand, Master. You can rest assured that we’ll be careful," Yue Zhao nodded, suppressing his excitement and smiling.

"I’m certainly unconcerned about you; the key is to protect Geng Geng. Her cultivation is still somewhat low, and we must ensure she doesn’t get injured," Wen Guiyun remarked, his gaze landing on Gu Qingqing, who seemed slightly indignant, prompting him to smile and admonish, "Don’t be upset. Compared to your senior brothers, your cultivation is indeed lower. If a Demon Cultivator truly appears, you are in the most danger!"

"I understand; I’ll stay close to my senior brothers and not hinder them," Gu Qingqing said, her cheeks puffing with indignation.

Wen Guiyun chuckled, shaking his head as he handed Si Lin a pile of items.

"There are quite a few of you heading out, and Wuyun City is quite a distance away. This ship will be useful to you, only requiring medium-grade Spirit Stones for operation. Additionally, take these items; they might prove helpful to you," he instructed as he handed over the items.

Receiving what looked like a model ship, Si Lin was a bit surprised. He knew the origin of this ship from Wen Guiyun; it was an Immortal Artifact level large flying tool from the Sacred Land. Not only could it fly, but it could also withstand attacks at the Half-step Immortal Realm, making it extremely formidable.

His demeanor became very solemn, "Rest assured, Master, I will protect it well!"

"Alright, you’ve received all necessary instructions. Go and prepare; be cautious on your journey and return soon," Wen Guiyun nodded, his gaze sweeping over the six of them as he smiled.

"Yes, we take our leave," they replied.

Si Lin and the six of them left Lingxi Hall together, then headed together to Gu Qingqing’s courtyard.

"Geng Geng, on this trip to Wuyun City with the others, avoid using the Word Spirit Technique unless absolutely necessary, understand?" After the maids left, Yue Zhao set up a barrier around them and spoke to Gu Qingqing with a serious expression.

Gu Qingqing paused for a moment, then nodded, "Alright, I’ll be careful."

"The Sub-immortal Realm is not peaceful. Even though our Lingxi Sacred Land holds a high position here, it doesn’t prevent others from taking advantage of that. We’ve faced such issues before. Your Word Spirit Technique is almost unrivaled even here. If anyone found out about your talent, some would risk opposing Lingxi Sacred Land to harm you. Such covert methods are hard to defend against. Until you reach the Half-step Immortal Realm, it’s best to be cautious," Yue Zhao explained patiently, concerned that Gu Qingqing might not comprehend the gravity of the matter.

"Indeed, there are many who keep an eye on our Lingxi Sacred Land. Previously, there have been cases where highly talented disciples were crippled, although they weren’t from our sect. Still, Geng Geng, you should be extra cautious; in their eyes, you’re easier to deal with than us!" Rong Ye chimed in from the side.

"I understand. Rest assured, senior brothers, I know what to do," Gu Qingqing replied, her expression becoming more serious as she nodded.

"That’s good. Rest easy; we’ll protect you well and ensure you don’t get hurt!" Yue Zhao said gently, ruffling Gu Qingqing’s hair fondly.

Gu Qingqing nodded, "I trust Senior Brother."

"Everyone should take stock of their supplies and see if anything needs replenishing. We may not be delayed on the road for long, so be prepared." As the leader, Si Lin spoke after Yue Zhao and Gu Qingqing finished talking.

Gu Qingqing and the others immediately began to inventory their items, counting talismans, Spirit Stones, Array Plates, Elixirs, and so on. Meanwhile, Mu Chen, Nan Hua, and Rong Ye distributed their crafted items among the others. Once the inventory was confirmed without issue, Si Lin discussed a few points of attention before dismissing them.

After everyone else left, Gu Qingqing summoned Jun Wu, Yun Ran, and Zhuo Tingqiu.

"Geng Geng, did Master Wen call for you just now for something?" Yun Ran asked curiously as soon as she entered.

"Several disciples from our sect have disappeared in Wuyun City in Canglan Prefecture. The master sent us to investigate, and we will set off tomorrow. Do you want to come with me?" Gu Qingqing explained briefly and asked Yun Ran and the other two.

"Where you go, I go. I’m going with you." Jun Wu was the first to express his stance, having stayed in Lingxi Sacred Land for Gu Qingqing; he would go wherever she went.

"Same here, I stayed just to adventure together with you," Zhuo Tingqiu also chimed in, stating directly.

"Me too, don’t forget you promised to bring me along!" Yun Ran quickly added, sounding a bit playful.

"Alright, then take stock of your belongings now to see if anything needs replenishment. If not, have a good rest and depart with me early tomorrow." Gu Qingqing smiled happily as she spoke.

Once the three had finished preparing, Yun Ran and Zhuo Tingqiu left first, leaving Jun Wu and Gu Qingqing together.

"Geng Geng, do you know the situation in Wuyun City?" Jun Wu peeled an orange for Gu Qingqing while asking as they sat in a pavilion.

"The master said there might be Demon Cultivators in Wuyun City, so it could be quite dangerous. We need to be cautious." Gu Qingqing trusted Jun Wu and didn’t hide anything from him.

Upon hearing this, Jun Wu frowned slightly, "In this outing, you must be careful and refrain from using your Word Spirit Technique unless absolutely necessary."

"I know, Senior Brother already told me. I’ll be careful." Gu Qingqing replied helplessly, surprised that Jun Wu and Yue Zhao shared the same thoughts.

"That’s good." Jun Wu nodded, his worry for Gu Qingqing overshadowing his consideration that Yue Zhao’s wisdom would surely have anticipated these concerns.

After sitting for a while, Jun Wu left, and Gu Qingqing cultivated for a bit before resting early.

Early the next morning, a group gathered at the entrance of Lingxi Hall, with Wen Guiyun and the four Hall Masters waiting for them.

"The journey is long, so be careful. If you encounter danger, don’t force it; report to the sect promptly." Wen Guiyun advised the group, looking at them seriously.

"The disciples will adhere to the Saint Master’s command!"

Everyone bid farewell to Wen Guiyun and the others.

"Let’s go." Wen Guiyun gestured grandly, giving the order.

Si Lin had already activated the Flying Artifact. A medium-sized Tower Ship floated in mid-air. Once Wen Guiyun gave the order, everyone boarded the ship. Si Lin stood at the control panel, channeling Spiritual Power into it, causing the Tower Ship to launch like a meteor past Wen Guiyun and the others.

"Saint Master, is it really alright to let them go?" Yao Leming’s smile vanished as he watched Gu Qingqing and the others depart, asking worriedly.

"The seal must be reinforced as soon as possible. We cannot go, so we must trust that they can manage." Wen Guiyun’s eyes also followed the disappearing direction of the Tower Ship, his tone somber.

"Young birds must eventually fly on their own, and we can’t shelter them forever. Besides, with Si Lin and Yue Zhao there, it shouldn’t be an issue." Lan Chi evidently saw things more openly and stated bluntly.

"Exactly, Si Lin is skilled, and Yue Zhao is smart. It’ll be fine." Ye Shenglan added nearby. Though she appeared gentle, she had a tough heart, understanding when to be resolute!

"Let’s go. There’s no need to dwell on it. We have tasks of our own to attend to." Wen Guiyun turned and walked toward the depths of Lingxi Hall.

The others exchanged looks, putting away their worries as they followed Wen Guiyun into the depths of Lingxi Hall.

...

Gu Qingqing and the others, unaware of Wen Guiyun’s concerns, quickly left Floating Island once the Flying Artifact was activated, heading swiftly toward Canglan Prefecture.

It was everyone’s first time aboard a Flying Artifact of Immortal Artifact Level, and as they flew quite high, all stood by the railings to admire the scenery. After realizing the landscape below was monotonous, they returned to their rooms to rest.

Lin Xian’er and Zhao Yan were staying next door and went directly to Lin Xian’er’s room.

"Xian’er, look at that Gu Qingqing, bringing along anyone. That Yun Ran and what’s-his-name Zhuo Tingqiu must have come from the Lower Realm too, looking like they’ve never seen the world." Zhao Yan had a low opinion of people from the Lower Realm. Earlier, she refrained due to Si Lin and the others’ presence, but now without others around, she spoke freely.

"If she hadn’t been lucky and caught the Saint Master’s eye, she probably wouldn’t even be here in the Sub-immortal Realm. People from small places are always like that." Lin Xian’er poured a cup of tea, her tone full of disdain.

"I don’t even know what the Saint Master saw in her. Besides being pretty, I don’t see anything special about her. Si Lin and the others must be bewitched to protect her like that!" In the eyes of everyone at Lingxi Sacred Land, Si Lin and the others were like gods, figures of worship. The fact that such beings, whom they dared not even speak to, treated Gu Qingqing so well was hard for anyone to accept.

"Who knows." Lin Xian’er was also jealous of Gu Qingqing, especially when even Si Lin showed her care—it made her even more envious, while at the same time looking down on Gu Qingqing, believing that aside from her face, she was inferior to herself in every way.

"This trip to Wuyun City, Senior Brother Si and the others will surely realize you, Xian’er, are much better than that Gu Qingqing!" Zhao Yan dared not claim her own excellence, choosing instead to flatter Lin Xian’er.