Longevity: Starting with an infant's innate growth potential

Chapter 176 Another Victory

"Currently, I have three second-tier lightning attribute inscriptions: Thunderclap, Five Thunders, and Purple Lightning."

"Among them, Thunderclap and Five Thunder are second-tier low-grade, while Purple Light Thunder is second-tier mid-grade."

Zhou Ling carefully examined the Thunderwood Sword in his hand.

The dark sword blade crackled with faint lightning, exuding an astonishing power, as if lightning could burst forth from within at any moment.

Upon closer inspection, the "Intermediate Observation" and "Intermediate Analysis" sections also came to mind.

Having learned his lesson from the three-colored sword, Zhou Ling examined the object even more carefully this time.

I was afraid of missing something again.

After all, details are extremely important in this kind of assessment.

"This Thunderwood Sword was forged from second-grade mid-level Thunderwood, without incorporating any other materials."

"Using the Thunderclap and Five Thunder Inscriptions doesn't quite match the properties of this Thunderwood, so we can only choose the Purple Light Inscription."

"The Purple Light Thunder Seal contains three seals with twenty-eight purple light thunder patterns, making the thunderous power it unleashes relatively easier to control."

After confirming that there were no problems with the materials and forging method of the Thunderwood Sword, Zhou Ling pondered for a while and decided to refine the inscription.

However, the Purple Light Inscription is a mid-grade second-tier inscription, which is quite difficult to obtain.

Zhou Ling arranged the spirit paper, spirit ink, and spirit brush, and then began to try to draw the purple light inscription.

The Purple Light Thunder Seal uses the Thunder Element Light Splitting Method.

This is a common method for refining lightning-attribute inscriptions.

The advantage of this method is that it can lock a single inscription using nodes, eliminating the need to draw it all at once.

The person who created this method probably considered the difficulty of refining lightning attribute inscriptions, as it would consume too much energy to inscribe three inscriptions.

Even a second-rank inscription master might not be able to withstand it.

After all, controlling the lightning-attribute spiritual ink with the help of the spirit brush consumes more than twice the spiritual energy of the other five elements.

With the foundation of his previous work drawing the Five Thunder Inscription, Zhou Ling had a considerable advantage in drawing the Purple Light Thunder Inscription.

However, it is quite difficult.
Fortunately, he had plenty of time, so he planned to first enter the [Illusion Simulation] to improve his proficiency with the Purple Light Thunder Inscription before starting to draw.

As the [Illusion Simulation] was activated, the scene before my eyes changed slightly, as if a ripple of light was flashing.

Then, the figures of everyone else around him dispersed, leaving only Zhou Ling sitting on the jade platform.

Zhou Ling recalled the method of making the Purple Light Thunder Seal in his mind, and then began to write his first attempt.

A moment later, a plume of black smoke rose from the spirit paper.

failure.

Zhou Ling carefully observed the traces of the inscription on the spirit paper.

[You are currently observing the Purple Light Inscription. Intermediate Observation +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

[You are currently analyzing the Purple Light Inscription. Intermediate Analysis +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

Zhou Ling quickly found the cause: the integration between the inscription and the imprint node was not in place.

This is a common problem when refining a new inscription for the first time.

After all, combining the two falls into the category of skill.

Moreover, almost every inscription is different, so you need to draw it several times and practice until you can master it.

"However, this was quite costly, and I only managed to draw two inscriptions myself."

After carefully considering the details, Zhou Ling continued drawing.

With the [Illusion Simulation] feature, he needs to quickly increase his proficiency with the Purple Lightning Inscription.

Furthermore, there are deductive simulations available, which are sufficient to draw based on one's own circumstances.

Soon, Zhou Ling arranged the spirit paper again and continued drawing.

······.

"He actually chose the Thunderwood Sword. This little guy is small, but he's got quite the guts!"

Deacon Qin now finds Zhou Ling pleasing to the eye no matter how he looks at him, and praises him with a smile.

"This little guy was a bit impulsive. The Thunderwood Sword is quite difficult to make. Thunderwood is the power of thunder condensed by absorbing the lightning of heaven and earth."

"The lightning attribute itself is unstable, and it is even more difficult to control when it is used to forge a spirit sword."

Dean Zhong frowned.

Forging a sword is the most difficult of all weapon crafting techniques.

For most inscriptions, the key is simply to ensure the inscription and the details between the inscription nodes are handled properly.

However, the inscriptions integrated into the sword are extremely complex, involving not only the inscriptions and inscription nodes, but also the sword intent, node sealing, and even the fusion of sword stones.

Putting everything else aside, just comprehending sword intent is something that even most weapon refiners would find difficult to achieve.

Generally speaking, cultivating and comprehending sword intent is no less difficult than becoming a second-grade inscription master.

Even among sword cultivators, less than one in a thousand can truly comprehend the essence of swordsmanship.

Therefore, it is evident how difficult it is for a weapon refiner to forge a fine sword.

“It doesn’t matter. If he doesn’t pass this time, as long as he can reach the Foundation Establishment stage next year, the Dao Academy might be able to give him a spot.”

Instructor Hu was also somewhat worried, after all, in his opinion, the difficulty of the Thunderwood Sword that Zhou Ling chose was far beyond the standard.

Regardless, he would still fight for what was right for Zhou Ling.

Upon hearing this, Dean Zhong and Supervisor Zhang couldn't help but rub their foreheads.

The number of positions available for the Taoist priests in the Heavenly Crafts Department is limited, especially for second-rank positions, which simply cannot be allocated to all of them.

They are usually given to disciples with exceptional talent and the potential to become third or fourth-grade magic masters.

Zhou Ling's low-grade spiritual root aptitude is quite ordinary, and more importantly, he has not yet passed the Foundation Establishment test.

Neither of them spoke for a moment.

······.

[You are currently drawing a Purple Light Inscription. Innate Talent +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

[You are drawing a Purple Light Inscription. Detail +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

[You are currently observing the Purple Light Inscription. Intermediate Observation +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

[You are currently analyzing the Purple Light Inscription. Intermediate Analysis +1, Purple Light Inscription Proficiency +4]

······.

After several failed attempts to draw on the spirit paper, his proficiency in the Purple Light Inscription technique increased rapidly.

At this point, Zhou Ling was already able to draw a perfect purple light inscription.

Moreover, through continuous corrections from the intermediate analysis, he gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the Purple Light Inscription.

Next, Zhou Ling tried to draw another one.

As expected, the purple light imprint was successfully drawn as if water had flowed into a channel.

At this moment, the inscription on the spirit paper not only radiated purple light, but also had wisps of lightning sword energy condensing on its surface from time to time, making it look extremely powerful.

"After sealing a wisp of thunderous sword energy into the inscription node, its power is indeed greatly different."

Zhou Ling carefully observed the inscription he had just drawn.

It was as if one could sense a surging thunderous sword energy contained within it.

Although what was sealed was only a wisp of his thunderous sword energy, it could only be used once.

But for the assessment, it's enough.

"The power of this inscription should be sufficient!"

Zhou Ling murmured.

Then leave the [Dual Illusion Simulation].

When Zhou Ling opened his eyes again, he felt that almost 40% of his divine sense had been consumed.

It's still within an acceptable range.

[You are currently drawing a purple light imprint in the illusion simulation, increasing Illusion Simulation by +1 and Divine Soul by +4.]

Although the cost is considerable, the improvement is real.

"My current proficiency with the Purple Light Inscription should be sufficient to ensure its successful application on the Thunderwood Sword!"

Zhou Ling murmured.

You reap what you sow, even though it only took a little over an hour to draw in the [Dialogue Illusion Simulation].

However, with the help of various talents, he has now mastered it.

"Recover your spiritual consciousness first, then begin the refining process!"

Then, Zhou Ling took out a Soul Nourishing Pill and swallowed it, quickly recovering.

By midday, the competition on the assessment platform had reached a fever pitch.

Many people withdrew from the assessment due to excessive energy expenditure or repeated failures in refining.

Although I was filled with resentment, that's how cruel competition is. Survival of the fittest means there will always be winners and losers.

On Zhou Ling's jade platform, he had now fully recovered.

Not only did his consciousness recover, but his spiritual power also returned to its peak with the help of [Spiritual Power Affinity] and [Five Elements Gathering Spirit].

He was staring intently at the Thunderwood Sword in front of him.

He took a deep breath, held his breath, and with a flick of his hand, a ball of five-colored flames surged forth. After a slight pause, it burst forth with light, like a five-colored fire dragon, and with a hiss, the flames fiercely enveloped the Thunderwood Sword.

At the same time, Zhou Ling held a spirit brush, dipped it in ink, and, with the help of his divine sense, began to inscribe a purple light imprint on the Thunderwood Sword.

After an incense stick had burned for a while, Zhou Ling exhaled and his eyes shone brightly.

At this moment, the Thunderwood Sword was flashing with lightning, and its blade was releasing an extremely sharp aura.

"A mid-grade second-tier Thunderwood sword is finally complete!"

"With a wisp of lightning sword energy sealed within this Thunderwood sword node, plus a second-tier low-grade lightning-attribute spirit-sealing restriction, its power is enough to approach the level of a high-grade spiritual weapon."

Zhou Ling thought to himself, though his face was full of fatigue, his eyes were full of smiles.

This Thunderwood Sword is quite powerful, and with the three-colored sword in front of him, he estimated that entering the top six shouldn't be a problem.

At this moment, his gaze swept around.

They discovered that the other cultivators inside the light shields were all busy with their own tasks.

The person in front was a young cultivator, an alchemist.

At this moment, his forehead was covered in sweat as he manipulated the flames to burn the alchemy furnace.

The others were in a similar situation, all busy.

Zhou Ling looked around; there was still more than half an hour left before the assessment ended.

After examining the two spirit swords and confirming that there were no problems, he held the two spirit swords in both hands and walked towards the judges' table.

"What? It's done already?"

"There's still more than half an hour left before the assessment ends!"

"He finished? He's only at the eighth level of Qi Refining, and he's the first to finish. Will he even pass the test?"

"If this guy can pass the second-grade assessment, that would be terrifying."

"What's so scary about this? This is inspiring! So what if you have a low-grade spiritual root!"

Seeing that Zhou Ling had completed the assessment the fastest, the disciples watching in the square couldn't help but exclaim and discuss in unison.

Compared to others, Zhou Ling was far too conspicuous. As a freshman in the Dao Academy this year, he dared to participate in the second-rank Daoist qualification assessment.

Moreover, he was only at the eighth level of Qi Refining.

If he really passes, wouldn't that mean that his skill level is even stronger than that of Liu Yu and other prodigies?

"Zhou Ling, are you sure you've completed the assessment?"

Seeing Zhou Ling walk to the judges' table, Coach Hu asked her a question, his face full of satisfaction.

Regardless of whether Zhou Ling can successfully establish his foundation, the talent he has shown proves that giving him this foundation-establishment seed spot was absolutely the right decision.

Lu Yunxi, standing to the side, also had a faint smile on her pretty face.

Judging from the process of this assessment, Zhou Ling did not disappoint her expectations.

The level of inscription has improved by more than one level compared to six months ago.

"Yes, instructor!"

Zhou Ling said respectfully.

Then, Instructor Hu stood up and took the spirit sword from Zhou Ling's hand.

One was placed on the jade plate in front of Dean Zhong, and the other was placed on Qin Zhizheng's jade plate.

The two of them scanned the area with their divine senses.

After a moment, Deacon Qin nodded and smiled, "Not bad!"

"A mid-grade second-tier Thunderwood sword, imbued with a purple light inscription, plus a thunder attribute spirit-sealing restriction, and a thunder sword aura, is enough to make this Thunderwood sword reach the power of a high-grade second-tier sword."

"The restored tricolor sword is in perfect condition. Not only are the inscription nodes brand new, but the sword intent is also refined and even slightly better than before."

As Qin Zhizheng spoke, he nodded to Zhou Ling, his eyes full of admiration.

He then addressed the other judges, "This level is definitely top-tier, and could even be in the top three. What do you think, Dean Zhong?"

In addition to being the principals of Xuan Yuan Dao Academy, Dean Zhong and others also held positions in the Tian Gong Si (Heavenly Crafts Bureau).

Therefore, when it comes to the ranking of the top three, it is natural to consult with the other judges.

As for the final ranking, it will depend on the level of the other examinees.

If they were at the same level as Zhou Ling, Zhou Ling would still be able to win easily due to his time advantage.

"I agree!"

"I agree!"

Dean Zhong and Supervisor Zhang both nodded in agreement.

It was unanimously approved, Zhou Ling received a top score, and has already entered the top three.

"Thank you all, seniors!"

Zhou Ling hurriedly clasped his hands in thanks.

I was incredibly excited; I never imagined we'd make it into the top three!
He then left the assessment platform and walked towards the outer edge of the square.

"Brother Ling, you're amazing!"

Wang Xin, who had been waiting in the square, came up to congratulate Zhou Ling.

In her opinion, Zhou Ling would definitely pass the test.

Zhou Ling nodded to Wang Xin with a relaxed expression.

These days, Wang Xin has returned to the Taoist temple, but she is temporarily living outside with her mother.

"Brother Ling, how is it?!"

Sun Dajie also spoke up to ask.

"We'll have to see how others fare!"

Zhou Ling replied.

Although I have just been rated as top-tier and can still enter the top three, the specific situation will only be determined after the others have completed their assessments.

Then, he sat quietly on the prayer mat and waited patiently.

Half an hour passed quickly, and now the square was bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

Qin Zhizheng has already announced the end of this assessment, and all the cultivators who participated in the assessment should hand over their spiritual items.

Soon after, Qin Zhizheng began to announce the results: "In this assessment of the second-rank Daoist position of the Heavenly Crafts Bureau, Zhou Ling is the top scorer."

"The other five cultivators who passed the assessment are He Sheng, Nan Feng, and others."

"Ye Zhilan, the top performer in the second-rank Daoist examination..."

Qin Zhizheng's words were powerful and resounding, echoing throughout the entire square.

His gaze swept over Zhou Ling, and his eyes revealed admiration.

boom!
The entire plaza erupted in flames instantly, and all the cultivators stared at Zhou Ling in utter shock.

You should know that this is a second-rank Daoist qualification assessment.

Passing the assessment means a bright future ahead, signifying that one has become a true member of the Dao Alliance system.

Most of the participants were Foundation Establishment cultivators, but Zhou Ling was a genuine Qi Refining Level 8 cultivator.

And yet they still managed to win the championship!

A rogue cultivator at the eighth level of Qi Refining, aged twelve, was actually able to forge a mid-grade spiritual sword!

This is absolutely unbelievable!

"How did he do it?"

"This level of skill can even be said to far surpass that of Liu Yu and others who are considered the pride of heaven."

"This is truly unbelievable!"

"This guy's inscription skills are amazing!"

As Qin Zhizheng finished speaking, the cultivators present couldn't help but gasp and discuss among themselves.

No one expected that Zhou Ling would become the top scorer in the assessment.

"Brother Ling, you're the leader again!" Sun Dajie exclaimed excitedly.

Although Wang Yu was already used to the surprises Zhou Ling brought, she still showed surprise on her face at this moment.

Zhou Ling's performance can only be described as stunning!

Only Wang Xin remained calm, looking completely at ease.

"Hehe! You performed exceptionally well!"

Zhou Ling chuckled as he spoke.

Becoming the leader directly caught him somewhat off guard.

I feel like my skill level isn't that high!
"All disciples who have passed the assessment shall report to the Heavenly Crafts Bureau tomorrow!"

At this moment, Qin Zhizheng's voice rang out again.

"Let's go back first, I'll treat you to dinner tonight!"

Zhou Ling said excitedly.

The group then left the square.

(End of this chapter)