The memories of all humanity are awakening, except for mine.

Going back now won't help Lin Xiao, so it's better to complete the gift-buying task first, at least it will bring a good mood to Zuowang Peak in the New Year.

"Senior sister, don't panic. Second senior brother is lucky and will be fine. Let's buy the gifts first and give everyone a happy New Year." Jiang Chuan looked at Pei Guoguo.

Pei Guoguo cheered: "You're right, junior brother. Let's hurry up and finish shopping before we get back."

Inside the Juxian Pavilion in the market, the fire crackled and popped, illuminating the room.

Snowflakes drifted down outside the window, adding a layer of silver to the market.

Yun Wanggui of Tianzhu Peak, Lu Chen of Duanzui Peak, Luo Yang of Mengdie Peak, and Chen Yang of Chiyang Peak sat around a table laden with food and wine, the aroma of which filled the air.

Luo Yang picked up his wine cup, took a sip, and smiled: "Gentlemen, Pei Guoguo of Zuowang Peak is taking extra care of the newcomer Jiang Chuan."

Lu Chen put down his chopsticks and recalled, "That's right, it was at the market last time."

Because of Jiang Chuan, Pei Guoguo almost resorted to violence; her stance was unforgettable.

Yun Wanggui nodded: "After Jiang Chuan entered Zuowang Peak, Pei Guoguo's temperament has become much more restrained."

It seems Jiang Chuan holds a significant place in her heart.

Chen Yang laughed and half-jokingly looked at Lu Chen: "Lu Chen, let me remind you, don't try anything with Jiang Chuan."

"My Crimson Sun Peak sends the best elixirs to Forgetfulness Peak every month, hoping Jiang Chuan will grow up well there."

Lu Chen retorted, "Chen Yang, what do you mean by that? I, Lu Chen, am not someone who doesn't know what's important."

Chen Yang stopped laughing and said seriously, "Lu Chen, I'm not joking."

Jiang Chuan is now an important figure at Zuowang Peak; you must think carefully before you act.”

Yun Wanggui quickly smoothed things over: "Alright, it's rare for everyone to get together, let's not let this hurt our harmony."

The New Year is almost here, has everyone prepared New Year's gifts for Jiang Chuan yet?

He implied, "Jiang Chuan's status on Zuowang Peak is quite extraordinary; he might become the peak master in the future. We, as his senior brothers and sisters, should not be impolite."

On Zuowang Peak, Tao Hongjing looked at Lin Xiao and questioned, "Lin Xiao, did you cause the destruction of the Western Demon Sect's mountain gate?"

Lin Xiao met Tao Hongjing's gaze and said frankly, "It's me."

Tao Hongjing shouted, "Do you know what you're doing? You're disregarding your own safety!"

Now that your foundation for soaring through the sky is broken, and your cultivation has plummeted to the Supreme Realm, your future is uncertain. Have you considered the consequences?

Lin Xiao said softly, "Master, I care about my life."

Tao Hongjing was so angry his hands trembled as he pointed at Lin Xiao: "You're just giving up on yourself! Do you think this will solve the problem?"

Lin Xiao spoke up: "Master, seven years ago, because of my excuse, the fifth brother almost lost his soul."

This has always been a hurdle for me. I can't let that happen again.

Tao Hongjing sighed, "You child, you are too impulsive. Your actions have not solved the problem, but have only put you in a more difficult situation."

At this moment, Zhuang Yan quietly arrived at the gate of the villa. She was looking for Lin Xiao, but she overheard the conversation inside.

She pressed her heart against the door and listened quietly.

Tao Hongjing continued, "That's enough. Since things have come to this, I will take you into seclusion and do my best to salvage your cultivation."

I hope you will reflect deeply during your seclusion.

Lin Xiao said gratefully, "Thank you, Master. I've troubled you."

Tao Hongjing was lost in memories: "Back then, I was young and impetuous."

I have a friend who's also a madman; we roam the world together.

But later, he was framed, fell from grace, and was disgraced.

I don't believe he would do those things; he's the kind of person who would give everything for the people around him.

I never imagined I'd become like him back then. Lin Xiao, don't make another foolish mistake.

Zhuang Yan listened outside the door, tears welling up in her eyes.

He left the villa with a heavy heart, and not far away, he encountered Dong Xiaowan.

Seeing that Zhuang Yan's expression was off, Dong Xiaowan asked anxiously, "Zhuang Yan, how is Lin Xiao?"

Zhuang Yan tried to keep her voice steady: "Lin Xiao's Zhuang Sheng Sword is broken, his foundation for flying is broken, he won't live more than ten years."

Dong Xiaowan exclaimed in shock, "How could this happen? Is there no way to salvage this?"

Zhuang Yan wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes: "Elder Tao will take Lin Xiao into seclusion after today."

If all goes well, there might still be a glimmer of hope.

Dong Xiaowan gripped Zhuang Yan's hand tightly: "We have to think of a way to save Lin Xiao."

Jiang Chuan got up early as usual to prepare for his spiritual practice.

But today, Zuowang Peak was different from usual. Visitors began to arrive as soon as it was light.

"Jiang Chuan, come out quickly! Lots of people are giving you New Year's gifts!"

Pei Guoguo ran over excitedly and pulled Jiang Chuan outside.

Jiang Chuan looked bewildered as he followed them into the hall, where he saw it filled with gifts, all from prominent figures of the Yunhai Immortal Sect.

Yun Wanggui from Tianzhu Peak smiled and said, "Junior Brother Jiangchuan, a new year brings new beginnings. This is my heartfelt wish that your cultivation will reach new heights in the new year."

Lu Chen from Judgment Peak stepped forward, his expression serious but his tone sincere: "Junior Brother Jiang, I hope this gift can help you."

Luo Yang from Mengdie Peak smiled and said, "Junior Brother Jiang, I carefully selected this gift; I'm sure you'll like it."

Chen Yang from Chiyang Peak laughed heartily, "Junior Brother Jiang, Happy New Year! This gift is encouragement, keep up the good work!"

Ji Kui from Panlong Peak also presented a gift, saying, "Junior Brother Jiang, please don't hesitate to ask if you need anything in the future."

Qi Yunfeng also sent people to wish them a Happy New Year.

Chen Feng led Sun Qi into the hall. Chen Feng smiled and said to Jiang Chuan, "Jiang Chuan, our peak master sent us to deliver New Year's greetings. This is our heartfelt wish."

Jiang Chuan looked at the room full of gifts and didn't understand why so many people were giving him gifts.

"Second Senior Brother, what's going on? Why is everyone giving me gifts?" Jiang Chuan asked Lin Xiao with a puzzled look.

Lin Xiao patted Jiang Chuan on the shoulder and said with a smile, "Junior Brother Jiang, don't worry, Third Junior Sister has taken care of everything."

Your position on Zuowang Peak is extraordinary; everyone has high hopes for your future, and these gifts are a testament to their expectations for you.

Although Jiang Chuan was insightful, he was still somewhat puzzled as to why he had suddenly received so much attention at the Cloud Sea Immortal Sect.

Before he could figure it out, the young man in charge of delivering the sect's mail rushed into the hall, holding a letter and saying:
"May I ask who Jiang Chuan is? I have a letter for you."

Jiang Chuan stepped forward and took the letter.

Seeing the handwriting on the envelope, he guessed that the letter might have been sent by Yu Youwei.

Jiang Chuan found a quiet place and carefully opened the envelope.

"Jiang Chuan, it's been so long since we last met, I've been thinking of you. How have you been? I've already arranged for us to enter the Kunlun Secret Realm, which is about to open at the Cloud Sea Immortal Gate."

That hidden realm of Kunlun holds countless opportunities; I eagerly await your exploration. I wait with bated breath at the Cloud Sea Immortal Gate, awaiting your descent from the mountain to join me on this wondrous journey.

Jiang Chuan read the letter word by word, a warm feeling spreading through his heart, and longing quietly growing within him.

Thinking of Yu Youwei in the Cloud Sea Immortal Sect, who also longed for him, his heart began to race.

He gently stroked the letter, murmuring to himself, "Youwei, when I come down the mountain, I will not let you down." Only then did Jiang Chuan realize that Yu Youwei had already taken deep root in his heart, becoming an inseparable attachment.

A few days later, Jiang Chuan received an invitation from Jiang Wei to attend a gathering at Juxian Pavilion.

Inside Juxian Pavilion, the lights are bright, and the carved beams and painted rafters exude luxury.

"Haha, it's a rare occasion for everyone to get together today, so let's eat and drink to our hearts' content!"

Jiang Wei, dressed in magnificent robes and exuding an extraordinary air, spoke loudly.

Fang Sheng also joked with a smile during the meal: "That's right, that's right, we can't let Brother Jiang's kindness go to waste with such good wine and food today!"

Upon hearing this, everyone agreed and raised their glasses in a toast.

Jiang Chuan and Su Wen sat next to each other, smiled at each other, and Su Wen spoke first:
"Brother Jiang, have you made any new breakthroughs in your cultivation recently?"

Jiang Chuan chuckled: "You've made some progress. What about you, Brother Su?"

Su Wen waved his hand and joked, "I don't have Brother Jiang's talent. I can only cultivate step by step."

After a few rounds of drinks, Wang Han spoke up: "Gentlemen, I've heard that the Immortal Sect may send disciples on a mission after the New Year, supposedly to wipe out some exposed Demonic Sect sects."

"The Demonic Sect? Those guys are not easy to deal with. It looks like we're in for another tough battle," a disciple said.

“Yes, but this is also an opportunity for us to gain experience, and we might be able to improve our strength through it,” another disciple replied.

After the dinner, Jiang Chuan was stopped by Jiang Wei: "Brother Jiang, wait a moment, I have something to say to you."

The two found a quiet corner to sit down, and Jiang Chuan spoke first: "Brother Jiang, thank you for your hospitality today. This gathering at Juxian Pavilion is truly lively and extraordinary."

Jiang Wei said with some complicated feelings, "Brother Jiang, to be honest, I've come to see you today because I have something I want to tell you."

Jiang Chuan asked, "Brother Jiang, please speak freely."

Jiang Wei hesitated and said, "As you know, I am a nobleman's son, seemingly living a life of endless glory, but in reality, I have many unavoidable difficulties. Take matters of the heart, for example..."

Jiang Chuan, recalling the various interactions between Jiang Wei and Tang Zhizhi, teased:

"Brother Jiang, everyone has seen what happened between you and Miss Tang. Are you perhaps having some kind of difficulty?"

Jiang Wei smiled bitterly: "Although I am fond of Zhizhi, family matters are complicated and there are many obstacles. I... sigh."

Jiang Chuan comforted him, saying, "Relationships are inherently complicated, Brother Jiang, please don't lose heart."

Jiang Wei looked at Jiang Chuan and asked, "Brother Jiang, what about you? Do you have someone you admire?"

Jiang Chuan frankly said, "To be honest, Brother Jiang, I already have someone I like, and that person is Yu Youwei."

I plan to go find her after I get down the mountain.

Jiang Wei was full of admiration: "Brother Jiang, I never expected you to be so affectionate. It is truly a blessing for Miss Youwei to have won your heart."

Jiang Chuan smiled and said, "Brother Jiang, you flatter me. Youwei and I are deeply in love and will definitely spend our lives together."

On New Year's Eve, Zuowang Peak was decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, and a festive atmosphere permeated the surrounding area.

The rich aroma of the New Year's Eve dinner wafted through the air, instantly whetting everyone's appetite.

Lu Hao was alone in his room. His seven-colored deer hooves paced restlessly back and forth on the ground, his head frequently looking left and right, and his antlers swaying accordingly.

Jiang Chuan's voice came from outside the door: "Lu Hao, why aren't you coming out yet?"

The New Year's Eve dinner is ready, and everyone is waiting for you.

Lu Hao walked to the door, used his antlers to open it, his head drooping, his whole body showing signs of exhaustion.

It made a low mooing sound in its throat, expressing its worries.

Seeing Lu Hao's expression, Jiang Chuan patted Lu Hao's head and smiled:
"Don't worry, Master may have a cold face, but he has a kind heart. Today is the New Year, let's go, I will accompany you."

Lu Hao nuzzled Jiang Chuan's arm affectionately with his head, as if seeking comfort.

Then, he strode off, following behind Jiang Chuan, towards the dining area.

"Come on, everyone, let's eat! Let's have a good meal today!" Jiang Chuan said with a smile.

Just as everyone was enjoying their meal, Tao Hongjing put down his chopsticks and said, "After the meal, I will take Lin Xiao into seclusion."

During this time, the responsibility of guarding Zuowang Peak was entrusted to Jiang Chuan and Pei Guoguo.

Zhuang Yan asked, "Master, is Second Senior Brother...can he manage this seclusion?"

Chen Ping echoed, "Yes, we all know about Lin Xiao's situation, and we're really worried about him."

Tao Hongjing said, "This is a rare opportunity. If Lin Xiao can seize it, he will definitely be transformed."

You need not worry, I will do everything in my power to protect him.

Lin Xiao replied resolutely, "Master, your disciple will certainly live up to your expectations."

After the meal, Tao Hongjing and Lin Xiao packed up and prepared to head to their secluded retreat.

Jiang Chuan and Pei Guoguo escorted them to the foot of the peak, watching the two step into the wind and snow, their figures gradually disappearing into the distance.

"We must guard Zuowang Peak well," Pei Guoguo said to Jiang Chuan.

Jiang Chuan nodded: "Yes, it's our responsibility."

The two then moved to live in the main hall, remaining constantly vigilant about any disturbances around them.

During the period of seclusion, Zuowang Peak appeared calm on the surface, but in reality, undercurrents were surging.

One night, the main hall suddenly emitted a dazzling golden light, which shot straight into the sky and illuminated the entire Zuowang Peak.

"What's going on?" The disciples from the other peaks were awakened by the light and quickly came out of their rooms to check.

Looking at the golden light, Daizong of Qiyun Peak sighed, "It must be Senior Tao who used a powerful spell to help Lin Xiao with his seclusion. Such dedication to his disciple is truly admirable."

Chunyangzi of Tianzhu Peak nodded in agreement: "Indeed, as the sole successor of the Central Plains Sword Emperor lineage, Jiang Chuan now shoulders an even greater responsibility."

A month goes by in a blink of an eye.

That day, Jiang Chuan and Pei Guoguo were guarding outside the main hall as usual when a commotion came from the direction of the secluded cultivation area.

The two then saw Tao Hongjing and Lin Xiao approaching.

As the two approached, Jiang Chuan and Pei Guoguo were both startled.

Tao Hongjing's once jet-black hair and beard had now turned completely white, and his face looked haggard, making him appear decades older.

“Master, you…” Jiang Chuan said worriedly.

Tao Hongjing waved his hand and laughed, "It's nothing, I've just lost some of my vital energy and aged a bit."

After learning that Tao Hongjing had emerged from seclusion, the six peak masters rushed to Zuowang Peak.

When Zhuang Yan returned and saw Tao Hongjing with his hair and beard all white, tears welled up in her eyes: "Master, why did you do this..."

Tao Hongjing smiled and comforted him, "Why are you crying? I'm just getting older, it's not a big deal. Lin Xiao gained a lot from this seclusion, it was all worth it."

Jiang Chuan thought of Xie Xuan. Back in the Battle of Hulao Pass, Xie Xuan refused to accept the Sword Emperor's inheritance because he had something on his mind and did not want to die easily.

As the successor of the Sword Emperor lineage, he bears the heavy responsibility of passing on the legacy and must wait for Xie Xuan's return; otherwise, the legacy will not be complete.

He then thought of the Mountain Spirit, who had waited for Wang Zhihuan for a hundred years. Even though her heart had died, she still stubbornly lived on, simply because she understood that her death meant the break in the lineage.

Now, like the mountain spirit, I cannot easily give up the mission of passing on the legacy, no matter how difficult the road ahead may be.

At the same moment, Pei Guoguo's eyes reddened as she stood before Tao Hongjing. (End of Chapter)