I transmigrated to a chaotic world and became the sole player.

Lu Zhao's voice wasn't loud, but it clearly reached the ears of many in the noisy mission hall. The surrounding chatter instantly fell silent, and countless eyes turned to the outer disciple who had just shouted out that he wanted to take on the C-grade mission. When they saw that it was Lu Zhao, the newcomer with the "useless spiritual root," the first level of Qi Refining (on the surface), who had only entered the sect yesterday, expressions of surprise, astonishment, suspicion, mockery, and even schadenfreude instantly appeared on everyone's faces.

"Lu Zhao? That Lu Zhao? He's going to take on the Bing Shang mission?"

"Pfft—! Him? Level 1 Qi Refining? Accepting a C-grade mission? Are you kidding me!"

"Does he not know what the 'Critical Rank Mission' means? It involves venturing deep into dangerous territory, facing first-tier high-grade or even second-tier demonic beasts, and possibly evil spirits!"

"I think he's gotten carried away by those few contribution points yesterday and wants to climb the ladder overnight, right?"

"Hehe, this is going to be good. He won't be able to get past Deacon Zhao!"

"He's probably relying on Elder Yun's reputation, thinking Deacon Zhao will give him face? He doesn't even know his own limitations!"

"Exactly! A useless spiritual root, only at the first level of Qi Refining. It's a miracle he even made it to the northeast region, let alone investigate anomalies! He should be grateful he doesn't become a burden to the team!"

The surrounding whispers and jeers surged like a tide. Lu Zhao remained calm, as if he hadn't heard them, his gaze fixed on the disciple in charge of registration behind the task registration desk—the same disciple who had issued the "Clear the Mountain Road" task yesterday. At this moment, the disciple was also stunned, looking at Lu Zhao, then at the jade pendant at his waist, confirming the number was correct and the cultivation level indicator "Qi Refining Level 1" was accurate. His expression turned strange.

"Junior Brother Lu, are you sure you want to accept this mission?" The disciple in charge hesitated for a moment before asking, "This is a C-level mission, requiring at least the third level of Qi Refining, and it needs to be a team of at least three people. You…"

"I'm sure. I've reached the third level of Qi Refining. As for forming a team, I believe there will be people willing to travel with me." Lu Zhao's tone was calm, but carried an undeniable firmness. He quietly adjusted the effect of the [Concealing Breath Bag] to the third level of Qi Refining. Instantly, the aura emanating from his body rose from the first level of Qi Refining to the third level. Although it was still not strong, it at least met the minimum requirements of the mission.

"Huh? Level 3 Qi Refining? Wasn't it only Level 1 yesterday?"

"Hiding his cultivation level? Possibly, after all, it was specially approved by Elder Yun, so there might be some trick to it."

"So what if he's at the third level of Qi Refining? In a C-grade mission, even the third level of Qi Refining is just the bottom tier! Besides, he has a useless spiritual root; how much combat power can he possibly have?"

"I think it's unlikely..."

Discussions arose again, but the doubts subsided somewhat. After all, being able to conceal one's cultivation level meant one had some skill. However, the prejudice against Lu Zhao for having a "crippled spiritual root" remained deeply ingrained.

The disciple in charge also sensed the change in Lu Zhao's aura, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes, but he didn't say anything. In the cultivation world, concealing one's cultivation level was a common practice, and as long as it didn't violate the sect rules, no one would investigate further. He nodded and said, "Since you have met the cultivation requirements, you can go to the side hall and wait for Deacon Zhao's review. However, let me remind you, Deacon Zhao's review is strict, especially focusing on practical combat ability and teamwork. You... take care." There was a barely perceptible hint of sympathy in his tone. Clearly, he didn't think Lu Zhao would pass either.

"Thank you for the reminder, Senior Brother." Lu Zhao cupped his hands, turned around, and walked towards the side hall of the mission hall amidst the complicated, teasing, and curious gazes of the crowd.

The side hall was small and simply furnished, with only a few tables and chairs. At this moment, seven or eight people were already waiting there, all outer sect disciples who had applied to take on the upcoming C-level mission. Lu Zhao's gaze swept over them, a slight chill running down his spine. These seven or eight people were all quite powerful, the lowest being at the late stage of the third level of Qi Refining, most at the fourth level, and one even possessing a concealed aura that suggested he had likely reached the fifth level. Moreover, judging from their expressions and demeanor, most had sharp eyes and a steady presence, clearly indicating they were among the best outer sect disciples with extensive mission experience.

Lu Zhao's entry immediately drew everyone's attention. When they saw his somewhat wooden, unfamiliar young face, and the brand-new, unworn outer disciple's robes, and sensed his superficial Qi Refining Level 3 cultivation, most of them flashed a hint of contempt, disdain, and even a trace of… wariness? After all, a newcomer daring to accept a C-level mission was either an ignorant and fearless naiveté, or… someone who truly had something to rely on. In the cultivation world, few naivetés survive, so they leaned towards the latter. However, what this "reliance" was was worth pondering.

Ignoring everyone's gazes, Lu Zhao found an empty seat in a corner, closed his eyes to rest, and quietly spread his [Refining Spirit Technique] perception, collecting information about these "potential teammates".

The man with the concealed aura, seemingly at the fifth level of Qi Refining, was a young man of about twenty-five or twenty-six years old, with a cold expression, carrying a long sword, and eyes as sharp as an eagle. He carried a faint aura of killing intent, clearly having experienced many life-or-death battles. His badge read: [Liu Feng, Outer Disciple (Elite), Fifth Level of Qi Refining (Early Stage), Holds "Scrutiny/Vigilance" towards you, Friendship -5]. He is a strong contender for this mission, and might even be the team leader.

There was also a burly man with a muscular build, bronze skin, and a deep, imposing aura. He carried a black tower shield half his height on his back and a short-handled warhammer at his waist. He was a typical body cultivator, at the peak of the fourth level of Qi Refining. His head was marked with: [Shi Yong, Outer Disciple (Elite), Fourth Level of Qi Refining (Peak), holds a "Curious/Indifferent" attitude towards you, with a 0% affinity].

A graceful, aloof girl in a pale yellow dress and veil stood before them—the same masked girl they had met at the Spirit Testing Platform yesterday. She sat quietly beside a similarly masked maid, whose aura was slightly weaker. The girl's cultivation was at the late stage of the fourth level of Qi Refining, and her marker above her head read: [Huang Ling'er (suspected alias), Outer Disciple (Elite), Fourth Level of Qi Refining (Late Stage), Holds 'Curiosity/Inquiry' towards you, Friendship +2]. She seemed somewhat interested in Lu Zhao, her gaze lingering on him for a moment.

The others, some wielding swords, some whips, and others skilled in movement techniques, were all at the third or fourth level of Qi Refining. Most were indifferent or wary of Lu Zhao. However, one young disciple, small in stature, with bright eyes, a string of bells at his waist, and an elusive aura, seemed somewhat curious about Lu Zhao, increasing his friendliness by 1. Above his head: [Hou San, Outer Disciple (Ordinary), Qi Refining Level 3 (Late Stage), holds 'Curiosity' towards you, Friendship +1]

"It seems the team is quite strong for this mission. However, people's hearts are unpredictable, especially with Zhao Wuji leading the team..." Lu Zhao pondered. He noticed that Liu Feng, Shi Yong, and a few others with the strongest auras seemed to know each other, occasionally exchanging glances, subtly forming a small group. Huang Ling'er and her maid formed their own faction. Hou San and the others, on the other hand, appeared somewhat isolated.

The wait wasn't long. Just past noon, the door to the side hall was pushed open, and a cold, imposing aura, carrying a faint sense of oppression, instantly enveloped the entire hall. Zhao Wuji, dressed in a purple Daoist robe, with a stern face and piercing eyes, strode in. Behind him followed two inner disciples, also dressed in purple robes and exuding a composed aura, clearly his deputies for this mission.

Zhao Wuji's gaze, like a cold blade, slowly swept across the faces of everyone in the side hall. When it fell on Lu Zhao, his gaze paused slightly, a flash of undisguised disgust and coldness, and a hint of... barely perceptible, cat-and-mouse-like mockery, crossed his eyes.

"Hmph, quite a few people." Zhao Wuji snorted coldly, his voice icy. "The mission I issued is to investigate anomalies in the northeastern region. It's close to the Misty Swamp and Black Wind Ridge, fraught with danger, and not for the faint of heart. I need disciples with genuine talent, capable of working independently, and able to follow orders, not useless cowards who will only drag the team down!"

His words were pointed, practically a direct insult to Lu Zhao, calling him a "filler" and a "good-for-nothing." In the side hall, Liu Feng, Shi Yong, and the others smirked, their gazes towards Lu Zhao filled with even more contempt. Huang Ling'er frowned slightly but said nothing. Hou San shrank back, his eyes now showing more pity as he looked at Lu Zhao.

Lu Zhao remained calm, seemingly oblivious to Zhao Wuji's veiled insults, and simply lowered his head slightly in respect.

"My assessment is very simple." Zhao Wuji walked to the main seat and sat down, his gaze sweeping over everyone again. "First, cultivation level. The third level of Qi Refining is the minimum. But what I need are disciples who can demonstrate the strength of the third level of Qi Refining, not just empty shells with high cultivation! Second, combat experience. The Northeast region is teeming with demonic beasts and lurking evil spirits. Without combat ability, going there is simply suicide! Third, obedience to command. When I lead the team, orders must be obeyed without question. Those who disobey will be punished according to military law!"

"Now, state your name, cultivation level, and strengths. If you have any combat achievements, please state them as well. I will decide whether to keep or leave based on the situation," Zhao Wuji said loudly, his gaze first falling on Liu Feng.

Liu Feng stepped forward, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said in a steady voice, "Disciple Liu Feng, early stage of the fifth level of Qi Refining, is skilled in swordsmanship, and has experience fighting against first-tier high-grade demonic beasts such as the 'Iron-Backed Gray Wolf' and the 'Poisonous Water Crocodile King'. He has independently completed three C-level missions and assisted in one C-level mission." His tone was calm, but it exuded confidence.

Zhao Wuji nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes: "Not bad, Qi Refining Level 5, with practical combat experience, acceptable."

Next, Shi Yong, Huang Ling'er, and others stepped forward to introduce themselves.

Shi Yong: "Disciple Shi Yong, peak of the fourth level of Qi Refining, a body cultivator, skilled in defense, using both shield and hammer. I once single-handedly withstood the attack of the first-tier high-grade demon beast 'Ironclad Bull' and assisted in completing two Bingzhong missions."

Huang Ling'er (answered by a maid): "Miss Huang Ling'er is at the late stage of the fourth level of Qi Refining. She is skilled in water-based magic and healing, and has some knowledge of formations. She has assisted her family elders in handling minor evil spirit incidents and has independently completed several Ding Shang missions."

Hou San: "Disciple Hou San, late stage of Qi Refining Level 3, is skilled in movement techniques, tracking, and reconnaissance. He has a keen sense of smell and sharp ears. He has completed several gathering and reconnaissance missions in the middle and upper levels of the Ding Mountains on his own and is familiar with the terrain of the outer area of ​​Yunmeng Marsh."

……

One by one, the people introduced themselves, most of them possessing practical combat experience or a special skill. Zhao Wuji nodded mostly, occasionally asking a question or two about the details. When it was Lu Zhao's turn, everyone's attention focused on him again, filled with mockery, curiosity, and anticipation of seeing him make a fool of himself.

Lu Zhao stepped forward, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said calmly, "Disciple Lu Zhao, Qi Refining Level 3, specializes in... talismans, poisons, concealment, and tracking. In terms of combat experience... I assisted Senior Brother Lin Qingfeng of the Inner Sect in killing three Qi Refining Level 4 members of the Black Fiend Sect at Black Wind Ridge; and in Qingyun Town, I killed Wang Biao, the Qi Refining Level 5 leader of the Black Tiger Hall, and three of his accomplices."

After he finished speaking, the side hall fell into a deathly silence.

The contempt and mockery on Liu Feng, Shi Yong, and the others' faces instantly froze, transforming into astonishment, disbelief, and even... a hint of horror! Killing a Black Fiend Cult member? Killing Wang Biao of the Black Tiger Hall? And both were at the fourth or fifth level of Qi Refining?! Is this... even possible? One at the third level of Qi Refining, and with a useless spiritual root? You must be exaggerating!

A hint of surprise flashed in Huang Ling'er's beautiful eyes beneath her veil, and her gaze towards Lu Zhao became even more probing. Hou San stared at Lu Zhao with his mouth agape, as if he were looking at a monster.

Zhao Wuji's face instantly darkened, his eyes flashing with cold light as he stared intently at Lu Zhao, a chilling killing intent almost solidifying! Lu Zhao's words were not merely a statement of "victories," but a slap in the face! Wang Biao was his man (though not openly), and Lu Zhao killing Wang Biao was tantamount to slapping Zhao Wuji in the face! Moreover, Lu Zhao's mention of the "Black Fiend Sect" touched a nerve!

"Oh? Killed a Black Fiend Cult member? Killed Wang Biao?" Zhao Wuji's voice was icy, filled with skepticism and pressure. "Do you have any proof? Empty words are useless; how can I believe you? Perhaps you're trying to inflate your own value and get away with this?"

"This disciple dares not." Lu Zhao replied neither humbly nor arrogantly, taking several items from his robes (actually from a human skin pouch) and placing them on the table in front of Zhao Wuji. One was a black token (Blood Fiend Token) engraved with skull and snake-entwined runes; another was a bloodstained IOU bearing the Black Tiger Hall seal (torn and then glued back together); and… several uniform black darts emanating a faint bloody scent—the very hidden weapons used by Wang Biao and his group. "These are the token obtained from the Black Fiend cult members, the IOU found on Wang Biao, and the hidden weapons. Senior Brother Lin Qingfeng of the inner sect can testify to this. There were many onlookers in Qingyun Town that day, which can also be verified."

Looking at the Blood Fiend Token, IOU, and hidden weapons on the table, Zhao Wuji's face grew even more ashen, as dark as the bottom of a pot. He recognized those things; they were exactly what Wang Biao used to use! This Lu Zhao had actually killed Wang Biao and left behind evidence! What shocked him even more was the Blood Fiend Token! This thing was the token of the Blood Fiend Hall of the Black Fiend Cult. How could Lu Zhao have it? Could it be that he not only killed Wang Biao but also the people of the Blood Fiend Hall? Just how much did he know?

Silence fell once more in the side hall. The way Liu Feng, Shi Yong, and the others looked at Lu Zhao had completely changed. Their contempt and disdain vanished, replaced by solemnity, astonishment, and even a hint of… fear. To be able to kill Wang Biao, a fifth-level Qi Refining cultivator, and to obtain a token from a Black Fiend Cult member—regardless of the methods used—this achievement, this courage, this… ruthlessness, were far beyond what an ordinary third-level Qi Refining disciple could match! This “useless spiritual root” was probably truly something else!

Huang Ling'er's eyes sparkled with admiration, her interest in Lu Zhao growing even stronger. Hou San's eyes, on the other hand, shone brightly, as if he had seen his idol.

"Hmph!" Zhao Wuji snorted coldly, suppressing his killing intent and anger. He swept the Blood Fiend Token, IOU, and hidden weapons aside and said coldly, "Even if what you say is true, it only proves that you have some tricks up your sleeve and were just lucky. The Northeast region is far more dangerous than Qingyun Town! Your talisman and poison techniques are utterly useless against true first-tier high-grade demonic beasts and evil spirits! Moreover, this trip requires teamwork. How can a newcomer like you, so arrogant and unruly, follow orders? How can you cooperate with your teammates?"

He was determined to cause trouble and kick Lu Zhao out of the team.

Lu Zhao remained composed and said, "This disciple is willing to follow Steward Zhao's command. As for teamwork, although I am new to the sect, I deeply understand the principle of mutual support. Talismans and poison techniques may compensate for my lack of cultivation, and may play an unexpected role in reconnaissance, early warning, assistance, and even in critical moments. This disciple is willing to swear a pledge: if my mistakes hinder the team or violate military orders, I am willing to accept any punishment!"

His tone was firm and his attitude resolute, adopting an extremely humble stance, yet his words subtly highlighted his own value (the role of talismans and poisons in reconnaissance, early warning, assistance, and crucial moments). He even proactively offered to sign a pledge, effectively refusing Zhao Wuji's excuses of "insubordination" or "potentially hindering the team." After all, talismans and poisons undeniably possess unique value in exploration, reconnaissance, and even defeating stronger opponents—this was universally acknowledged. A team member skilled in these arts, willing to sign a pledge, and possessing a "glorious" track record (though questionable)—Zhao Wuji had no reason to forcibly refuse him, either out of courtesy or logic; otherwise, it would seem too deliberate and arouse suspicion.

Zhao Wuji's expression shifted, a fierce glint flashing in his eyes, clearly weighing his options. He did indeed want to take this opportunity to eliminate Lu Zhao, but Lu Zhao's "sensible" behavior—presenting evidence and a pledge in public—meant that if he refused outright, he would not only give others grounds to criticize him, appearing narrow-minded, but might also incur Elder Yun's displeasure (after all, Lu Zhao was specially approved by Elder Yun). Moreover, Lu Zhao's mention that "talismanic poison techniques might play an unexpected role at crucial moments" also stirred something within him. This exploration of the "Deputy Priest's Grounds" was already dangerous; perhaps having another "suicide fodder" wouldn't be so bad? In critical moments, it would be perfect for scouting, detecting traps, and drawing fire. As for Lu Zhao's meager talismanic poison techniques, in his eyes, they were insignificant.

"Very well! Since you're so confident and willing to sign a pledge, I'll give you a chance!" Zhao Wuji finally spoke coldly, a cruel glint in his eyes. "But remember your words! On this mission, all actions must obey my orders! If you disobey in the slightest, or hinder the team, I'll be the first to execute you!"

"Disciple obeys!" Lu Zhao clasped his hands in a fist salute, a cold smile playing on his lips. He knew that Zhao Wuji was using him as a "stepping stone" and a "scapegoat." However, it was still uncertain who was using whom.

"Hmph!" Zhao Wuji ignored him and turned his gaze to the others. "For this mission, I've decided that Liu Feng, Shi Yong, Huang Ling'er, Hou San, Lu Zhao, and my two inner disciples, Zhou Tong and Wu Ming, will participate—a total of eight people. Liu Feng, you will temporarily act as the team leader, responsible for specific coordination. Shi Yong, you will be responsible for defense and clearing the way. Huang Ling'er, you will be responsible for healing and support. Hou San, you will be responsible for reconnaissance and early warning. Lu Zhao, you... will be responsible for assisting Hou San in reconnaissance and using talismanic poison techniques to set up simple early warning and traps. Do you all understand?"

"Understood!" Liu Feng, Shi Yong, and the others responded in unison. Liu Feng's gaze towards Lu Zhao still held scrutiny and displeasure, but at least he no longer openly showed contempt. Shi Yong scratched his head, seemingly curious about Lu Zhao, his "talisman poison master" teammate. Huang Ling'er nodded slightly. Hou San rubbed his hands excitedly, looking at Lu Zhao, his friendliness level increasing by 5.

"Three days from now, at Chen Shi (7-9 AM), gather at the mountain gate square and depart on the sect's flying boat. Go back and prepare yourselves: make sure you have enough pills, talismans, magical artifacts, and dry rations. This mission is fraught with unknown dangers, so be prepared for a fierce battle, or even... death! Disperse!" Zhao Wuji waved his hand, ending the review.

The crowd dispersed. Lu Zhao walked out of the side hall, feeling several gazes still fixed on him—some probing, some wary, some curious. He paid them no heed, leaving the mission hall and heading straight for his cave dwelling.

Back in Cave 27, Lu Zhao activated the restrictions, sat cross-legged, and began to organize his thoughts, preparing for the mission three days later.

"The team consists of eight people: Zhao Wuji is at the late stage of Qi Refining (at least level seven); two inner disciples, Zhou Tong and Wu Ming, are estimated to be at level five or six; Liu Feng is at level five; Shi Yong is at the peak of level four; Huang Ling'er is at the late stage of level four; Hou San is at the late stage of level three; and I am at level three on the surface. We are not weak, but our hearts are not united. Zhao Wuji harbors murderous intent towards me, Liu Feng and the others' attitudes towards me are unclear, Hou San might be worth trying to win over, and Huang Ling'er… remains to be seen."

"The mission objective is to investigate the unusual activity at the 'Secondary Priest's Grounds.' According to the map and panel prompts, it's a crucial node for the Black Fiend Cult, containing the 'Blood Shadow Passage' and the 'Seal.' The unusual activity could be the Black Fiend Cult's doing, attempting to open the passage or break the seal; or it could be that the seal has naturally loosened, causing the evil energy to leak out. Either way, it's extremely dangerous. I've witnessed the Black Fiend Cult's methods before—they're insidious, unpredictable, and impossible to guard against."

"I must be fully prepared. I need plenty of talismans. I need to draw plenty of offensive talismans like the [Fireball Talisman (Good)], [Blazing Sun Talisman (Inferior)], and [Exorcising Talisman (Superior)]. I need to have enough defensive talismans like the [Diamond Talisman (High-Grade Common)]. I also need plenty of support talismans like the [Swiftness Talisman (Superior)], [Invisibility Talisman (Good)], and [Lightness Talisman (Mid-Grade)]. I also need to prepare some [Warning Talismans] and [Trap Talismans]. For poisons, I need to bring enough [Plague Crystal Powder], [Bone-Corroding Powder], and [Bewitching Powder]. For pills, I need to have a sufficient supply of [Jade Dew Rejuvenating Pill], [Blood-Replenishing Pill], [Antidote Pill], and [Grain-Clearing Pill]. For magical weapons, I need to maintain my short sword and crossbow, and I need to carry the [Pure Heart Jade Pendant] and [Azure Spirit Jade Pendant]. And that damn [Sect-Standard Flying Boat (Inferior)]... oh well, I'll bring it, just in case (although I probably won't)."

"Also, bring the complete map, the fragment of the Evil God's Emblem, and the Blood Fiend Token. They might come in handy at a crucial moment. But be careful to hide them and never let Zhao Wuji find out."

"These three days, I need to seize the time to draw talismans, prepare poisons, and refine some simple antidotes and healing potions. I also need to familiarize myself with the newly learned spells, especially the [Object Manipulation] and [Diamond Technique]. As for my cultivation... let's see if I can advance another step and solidify my position at the mid-stage of the fourth level of Qi Refining."

"Oh, right, there's also that side quest, 'Anomalies at the Sealed Node,' which requires you to 'obtain at least some true information about the anomalies.' This information probably doesn't just refer to surface phenomena; it could involve the secrets of the Black Fiend Cult, the state of the seal, or even… the truth behind the 'Blood Shadow Passage.' This trip is dangerous, but it's also an excellent opportunity to explore the secrets of the Black Fiend Cult and obtain clues!"

A resolute glint flashed in Lu Zhao's eyes. Without further hesitation, he immediately sprang into action. He took out his talisman brush, talisman paper, and cinnabar, and began drawing talismans. He decided that these three days, aside from necessary cultivation and rest, would be entirely devoted to drawing talismans, concocting poisons, and preparing supplies. He was determined to ensure his own condition and resource reserves were at their peak before departure!

Just as he was concentrating on drawing the third [Fireball Talisman (Good)], the cave's restrictions were suddenly triggered. Someone had come to visit.

Lu Zhao frowned, put down his pen, and extended his perception using the [Refining Spirit Technique]. Outside the cave, two people stood. One was slender with bright eyes—it was Hou San. The other was graceful and veiled—it was Huang Ling'er!

What are they doing here? Lu Zhao wondered, got up, walked to the cave entrance, and opened the barrier.

"Senior Brother Lu, sorry to bother you!" Hou San greeted him with a smile and a familiar gesture. "Senior Sister Huang and I have something we'd like to discuss with you."

Huang Ling'er nodded slightly, her gaze, hidden behind her veil, calmly fixed on Lu Zhao.

"Senior Brother Hou, Senior Sister Huang, please come in." Lu Zhao stepped aside to let the two into the cave. He noticed that Hou San's friendliness level had increased from +5 to +8, and Huang Ling'er's friendliness level had increased from +2 to +5. It seemed that his "achievements" during the review had indeed changed their attitude towards him.

The cave dwelling was simple, with only stone benches. The three sat down, and Hou San spoke first, lowering his voice, "Senior Brother Lu, to be honest, Senior Sister Huang and I came to find you to discuss something. This mission... seems a bit off."

"Oh? What makes you say that, Senior Brother Hou?" Lu Zhao's heart stirred, but his face remained expressionless.

"Senior Brother Lu, don't let Liu Feng and Shi Yong's impressive appearance fool you. This mission is led by Deacon Zhao, and it's going to that eerie place in the Northeast. I just don't feel entirely at ease." Hou San rubbed his hands, his eyes darting around. "Besides, Deacon Zhao doesn't seem to like you very much. Those of us without connections or backing have to stick together and look out for each other, don't you think?"

Huang Ling'er also said softly, "Junior Brother Hou's words are not without reason. Everyone knows about Deacon Zhao's character... This mission is nominally an investigation, but the dangers are unknown. Our cultivation levels aren't top-tier, so we need to be even more cautious. What Junior Brother Lu said during yesterday's review made us look at him in a new light. Talismans and poison techniques are indeed remarkably effective in exploration. Junior Brother Hou and I discussed teaming up with Junior Brother Lu to look after each other, share information, and prevent any unforeseen events. What does Junior Brother Lu think?"

So they'd come to form an alliance. Lu Zhao looked at the two men before him. Hou San was clever, skilled at reconnaissance, and familiar with the terrain; Huang Ling'er was mysterious, possessed considerable cultivation, and knew healing and formations. Forming an alliance with them would indeed be beneficial. At least, outside of Zhao Wuji and Liu Feng's small group, they would have their own people. Moreover, Hou San's suspicions about Zhao Wuji coincided with his own.

"Senior Brother Hou, it is my honor that Senior Sister Huang trusts me." Lu Zhao clasped his hands and said sincerely, "This journey is dangerous, and I am more than happy to have you two traveling with me. However, my cultivation is low and I am a newcomer, so I am afraid I will be a burden to you two."

"Hey, Senior Brother Lu, what are you saying! We've all heard about your killing of Wang Biao and your fight against the Black Fiend Sect. You're the one!" Hou San gave a thumbs up and chuckled, "Talismans and poison techniques, if used well, are even more effective than our swords and fists! We each have our strengths, complementing each other's weaknesses! Senior Sister Huang, don't you think so?"

"Hmm." Huang Ling'er nodded. "Junior Brother Lu, there's no need to be so modest. Since we've decided to travel together, we should work together. These are two 'mother-child communication talismans,' which can transmit messages over short distances within thirty miles, making them difficult to detect. The three of us will each hold one mother talisman and two child talismans for easy communication." She took out three small jade talismans carved with mandarin duck patterns and handed them to Lu Zhao and Hou San.

Lu Zhao took it; it felt warm and smooth to the touch, and the spiritual energy fluctuations on the talisman were subtle—it was indeed a good item. This Huang Ling'er must be quite wealthy.

"Thank you, Senior Sister Huang." Lu Zhao thanked her and took out three [Warning Talismans (Good)] that he had drawn himself, distributing them to the two of them. "These are little gadgets that I drew. They can sense abnormal fluctuations in spiritual energy, evil energy, and killing intent within a ten-foot radius and give you an early warning. Although they are not very refined, they are better than nothing. If you two senior brothers and sisters do not mind, you can carry them with you."

"A warning talisman? What a find!" Hou San's eyes lit up, and he quickly took it, delighted with it. Huang Ling'er also nodded slightly, accepting the talisman, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes. The quality of the talisman drawn by Lu Zhao seemed to be even higher than she had expected.

The three exchanged tokens and briefly discussed potential situations during the mission, their respective responsibilities, and some basic codes and cooperation. They agreed to stay together as much as possible, cover each other, share information, and provide timely support if danger arises.

After seeing Hou San and Huang Ling'er off, Lu Zhao returned to his cave, feeling somewhat relieved. With these two allies, his chances of success on this trip had increased considerably. However, he didn't completely trust them; caution was still necessary. Huang Ling'er, in particular, possessed a mysterious identity and unclear motives, requiring continued vigilance.

"The most urgent task is to improve our strength and prepare supplies." Lu Zhao stopped thinking about it and threw himself back into the intense preparations.

For the next three days, Lu Zhao barely left his house. Aside from his daily meditation and cultivation to stabilize his cultivation (successfully stabilizing at the mid-stage of the fourth level of Qi Refining), he devoted all his time to drawing talismans, mixing poisons, refining simple potions, and familiarizing himself with new spells. He exchanged all his contribution points (only 6 left) for materials to draw talismans, and supplemented them with some materials he had "picked up" from others. In three days, he drew thirty [Fireball Talismans (Good)], ten [Blazing Sun Talismans (Inferior)], five [Evil-Breaking Talismans (Superior)], twenty [Diamond Talismans (High-Rank Common)], ten [Swiftness Talismans (Superior)], ten [Concealment Talismans (Good)], ten [Lightness Talismans (Mid-Rank)], twenty [Warning Talismans (Good)], and ten [Simple Trap Talismans (Entangle, Explosion)] each. Regarding poisons, three small packets of [Plague Poison Crystal Powder (Medium Grade)], two packets of [Bone-Rotting Powder], one packet of [Bewitching Powder], and several [Antidote Powder] were prepared. As for pills, the remaining [Jade Dew Rejuvenating Pill] and [Blood-Replenishing Pill] were properly packaged. The [Unknown Spirit Beast Finger Bone (Fragment)] was also attempted to be refined; indeed, the affinity for wood attributes increased by a negligible 0.1%, almost imperceptible, but better than nothing.

Three days passed in the blink of an eye.

On the morning of the fourth day, at Chenshi (7-9 AM). At the mountain gate square.

A medium-sized flying boat, about ten zhang long, entirely silver-white, its hull engraved with flowing cloud runes and emanating a faint spiritual pressure, hovered silently above the plaza. The flying boat had a sleek design, with a ferocious dragon head carved at its prow. Its sails were made of some kind of silver silk, fluttering and rustling even without wind. Compared to Lu Zhao's "Sect-Standard Flying Boat (Inferior)," it was worlds apart. This was a true sect-issue flying artifact!

Below the flying boat, Liu Feng, Shi Yong, Huang Ling'er (with her maid), Hou San, and Zhao Wuji and his two inner disciples, Zhou Tong and Wu Ming, were all present. Zhou Tong was a young man with a sinister face and sharp eyes, while Wu Ming was a short, stout, smiling middle-aged man with a shrewd look in his eyes. Both of them possessed Qi Refining Level 5 or higher.

Lu Zhao arrived on time, still dressed as an ordinary outer disciple, his aura suppressed at the third level of Qi Refining. A concealment pouch hung at his waist, and he carried an inconspicuous gray cloth bag (containing a human skin pouch and some supplies). His arrival didn't attract much attention; only Hou San winked at him, and Huang Ling'er nodded slightly. Liu Feng and Shi Yong merely glanced at him before looking away. Zhou Tong and Wu Ming looked at him a few more times, their expressions ambiguous. Zhao Wuji simply snorted coldly, not even bothering to look at him.

"Everyone's here. Get on board!" Zhao Wuji waved his hand and leaped onto the flying boat first. The others followed suit.

Lu Zhao was the last to board the ship. The flying boat had a spacious interior with several private cabins and a common area. Zhao Wuji and two inner disciples went into the largest main cabin, while Liu Feng, Shi Yong, Huang Ling'er (the maid stayed outside), and Hou San each chose a smaller cabin. Lu Zhao also chose the most secluded and smallest cabin, closed the door, and set up a simple warning array.

"Set sail!" Zhao Wuji's voice echoed throughout the flying boat through the sound transmission array.

"Buzz—!"

The flying boat trembled slightly, its silver sails gleaming brightly, transforming into a streak of silver light that pierced through the clouds and sped off towards the northeast! Its speed was lightning fast, far surpassing Lu Zhao's wretched flying boat. Outside the window, the sea of ​​clouds churned, mountains and rivers receded, a magnificent sight.

Lu Zhao stood by the porthole, gazing at the scenery rushing past outside, his eyes deep and thoughtful. Fifty miles to the northeast lay the site of the secondary priesthood… The secrets of the Black Fiend Sect, Zhao Wuji's schemes, and unknown dangers awaited them ahead.

"Finally, it's about to begin."

He clenched his fists, a cold fighting spirit flashing in his eyes.