I will be stronger after the remake

For questions that don't require analysis and can be answered simply by searching, Feng Maimai quickly responded: "The origin of alchemists lies in the coastal areas of Yan and Qi during the Warring States period. By the end of the Warring States period, during the reign of King Weixuan of Qi, they already had a mature system of transmission. The Records of the Grand Historian refers to them as 'Fangxian Dao', with typical figures such as Song Wuji, Zheng Boqiao, Chong Shang, and Xu Fu."

Taoism officially took shape in the Eastern Han Dynasty. It was first founded by Zhang Daoling, also known as the Five Pecks of Rice Way, the Way of the Celestial Masters, or the Orthodox Way. At the same time, the Way of Great Peace founded by Zhang Jiao also accelerated the spread of Taoism.

"Fangshi were ancient sorcerers who engaged in witchcraft, alchemy, divination, and other activities, pursuing immortality and the arts of becoming a deity. Taoism absorbed the techniques of Fangshi and the philosophical ideas of Taoism. It can be said that Fangshi were the predecessors of Taoists, and Taoists were the successors of Fangshi."

Yu Shujiang frowned and said, "Wait a minute, what about Laozi, the founder of Taoism? Wasn't he a person from the Spring and Autumn Period?"

Feng Maimai said, "Laozi, also known as Lao Dan, founded the Taoist school of thought, but Taoism and Taoism are two different concepts. It is Taoism that venerates Laozi as its founder, but he himself did not have such an intention."

Ma Feiyan nodded repeatedly: "The alchemist is the senior, and the Taoist is the junior. You can't say that Grandpa is like Grandson, can you?"

Tang Ping said, "In a broad sense, both the alchemists and the Heavenly Court can be considered part of the Taoist sect. In a narrow sense, there really isn't one. But Taoism has been disappointing for a long time. They've only thought about resting on their laurels and have no ambition whatsoever."

"Of course, it's not incomprehensible. After all, the ideas of Tao have been firmly integrated with Chinese civilization and deeply rooted in people's hearts. Even Buddhist masters are called 'enlightened monks.' Since there is a place for us whether we work hard or not, we might as well just lie down and relax."

Yuan Ji teased, "These words sound especially convincing coming from you."

"I am ashamed to say that I am now a fighter, but I am getting further and further away from the traditions of Taoism."

"If there are faults, correct them; if there are none, strive to improve."

Hu Ze was displeased upon hearing this: "Who advises people to give up? You are at the age where you should be striving. Don't stop moving forward, otherwise you will lose the motivation to strive when you get older, and it will be too late to regret it!"

Yuan Ji said, "Why are you suddenly showing off your knowledge?"

Hu Ze ignored him again and continued, "The day after tomorrow, Gu Linglong will be visiting our unit. I heard that she is about the same age as you. I'm not saying that you should make her your target, that would be too unrealistic. But you might as well take this opportunity to ask her for advice on cultivation experience and learn more about her strengths. It's not so easy to come into contact with a fourth-level spiritual energy user normally."

Tang Ping and the two newcomers nodded, indicating that they would humbly learn from her.

The welcome banquet came to a successful conclusion.

Before everyone left and returned to their dormitories, Tang Ping used the Three-Eyed Spiritual Radiance on his sister and Ma Feiyan, obtaining information about the spiritual energy of the "Immortal" and the "Heavenly Soldier".

The Heavenly Soldiers possess two spiritual abilities: "Soaring Through the Clouds" and "Imperial Decree from the Heavenly Court." The former is a flight skill that requires water vapor as a medium, while the latter is similar to the "Imperial Decree from the Underworld" of the Ghost Messenger, except that the background is changed from the Underworld to the Heavenly Court, and it is a passive skill.

Although in mythology, the Heavenly Court holds a far higher position than the Underworld, when converted into spiritual energy, one can intimidate wandering ghosts, while the other can intimidate wicked and immoral gods. It's hard to say which is more practical.

The Loose Immortal possesses two spiritual abilities: "Unrestrained" and "Turning Stone into Treasure". The former resists control skills and is a permanent effect that can be effective even in the real world, corresponding to the immortal's belief in pursuing freedom. The latter can upgrade any item into a natal magic weapon.

"Based on the feedback alone, it's unclear whether it's possible to change one's natal magic weapon. If it can be changed, there are many possibilities. If it can't be changed, then we need to think it over carefully and not use it casually."

This matter cannot be taken lightly. After thinking it over, Tang Ping decided to invite Yu Shujiang to the Illusionary Realm for a friendly sparring session under the pretext of assessing the training results. Considering that he was still under protection, he also sought Yuan Ji's consent.

The following morning, Tang Ping and his group arrived at the Armed Forces Department's training ground in the Illusion Realm through the Illusion-Breaking Stone. Although it was half the size of the Spiritual Energy Training Base, it had everything they needed.

Last time, the Armed Forces arrested five members of the New Territories Alliance and, following Tang Ping's advice, changed their interrogation methods to extract important intelligence. They gained a great deal of credit in the operation and owed a favor, so they were too embarrassed to bring up the matter of Ma Yiming being poached again. They readily agreed and lent out the venue with the largest space and the most complete facilities.

"I'm sorry, I shamelessly followed you here."

Ma Feiyan chuckled.

"Don't mention it, we're good sisters, we'll stand together through thick and thin."

Yu Shujiang patted her chest and said.

"What are you being so generous for! The Armed Forces Section is only willing to lend us the venue because of your brother's sake."

Despite her complaints, Tang Ping also welcomed Ma Feiyan, saying, "The more people there are for sparring and training, the better. I just felt it was a bit inhumane to take you to training right after you arrived at the unit, so I didn't call you."

Yu Shujiang thought to herself, "You have to be humane to others, but you can abuse your own sister like that, right?"

Why do you talk so much!

Tang Ping pulled Yu Shujiang to a corner of the venue and asked her about the psychic ability to "turn stones into treasures".

"Brother, how did you know I have a psychic ability called 'Turning Stones into Treasures'? You even predicted the exact effect?"

"Information about basic spiritual levels is easy to find out. Even if the person in charge keeps it a secret, as long as they act together a lot, their companions will be able to guess it. Moreover, there are the most first-level spiritual cultivators, and it is impossible for everyone to keep their mouths shut. There will always be a few who can't help but show it off."

"They said it was confidential, but it leaked like a sieve... No wonder everyone says there are no secrets in government agencies; all the secrets are for outsiders."

Yu Shujiang complained for a moment, then said truthfully, "The spiritual energy effect is just as you said. Once an item is selected, it cannot be changed, but as long as you wait for 12 hours, the item will exit the 'natal magic weapon' state and return to its original state. Only then can you select other items."

"What kind of supernatural powers will it gain after becoming a natal magic weapon?"

"It doesn't have any supernatural powers; it just improves performance. For example, scissors become sharper, bicycles become faster, and clothes become more durable. It's a far cry from a magical artifact. I think the name 'spiritual energy' is misnamed. This isn't about turning stones into treasures; it's about weapon enhancement. It's completely misleading."

(Note: Some people reported that the image of the younger sister yesterday did not match her weight, so I adjusted the parameters and ran a few more images.)

Chapter Ninety-Eight: Turning Stone into Treasure

"Although I was warned long ago that the spiritual energy of a Loose Immortal is not strong, its true strength lies in the hidden talent enhancement. But how can it be called an Immortal when it is so weak? If it is just about enhancing performance, even a Blacksmith's Spiritual Rank can do it. And the Blacksmith's Spiritual Rank is a permanent enhancement, unlike my spiritual energy which only lasts for twelve hours. If it weren't for the beauty filter effect, I would really regret choosing the Immortal Spiritual Rank."

Yu Shujiang seemed to have harbored resentment for a long time, but had never been able to find anyone to confide in. At this moment, she poured out her grievances like a machine gun.

After listening, Tang Ping stroked his chin and pondered, "That shouldn't be the case. Other things might be exaggerated, and their effects might not match their names, but spiritual energy is an objective expression, not a name given by outsiders. Moreover, it doesn't need to be shouted out when used. What's the point of naming the spiritual energy that cuts objects 'the creation of heaven and earth'?"

"Who knows! Anyway, 'Turning Stones into Treasures' is very impractical, with many restrictions and weak effects. Moreover, once it becomes my natal magic weapon, I will also be injured if the item is damaged. The degree of injury is about 1:2. In other words, if my natal magic weapon is destroyed, I will lose half my life. It's practically malicious binding! I even thought that I might as well just pretend that this spiritual energy doesn't exist, maybe that would be safer."

"Wait a minute, the things you just mentioned all seem to be ordinary items. Have you tried any magical artifacts?"

"As a newcomer, how could I possibly have the chance to obtain a magic weapon? Didn't they say at the banquet yesterday that magic weapons are extremely rare?"

"Try mine."

Tang Ping took out the Water Spirit Pearl, handed it to Yu Shujiang, and explained its usage.

"This is really interesting. This is a cosplay artifact. With this magic weapon, cosplaying characters with equipment will be a piece of cake."

Yu Shujiang played with it for a while, transforming the Water Spirit Orb into various prop shapes. Initially, it became a golden cudgel and a cloak, then a gorgeously decorated magic wand and a magical girl dress, and finally even the armor from a tokusatsu film appeared, which amazed her.

"Let's test the psionic abilities first, then we'll play around with it later."

Seeing that the other party seemed determined to play all day, Tang Ping quickly urged them to hurry up.

Yu Shujiang put away her playful mood and grasped the Water Spirit Orb to use her spiritual energy.

The next moment, her armor changed; the originally flowing liquid water solidified into ice, becoming angular and emitting a chilling aura.

"It's so cold."

Yu Shujiang shivered as she put away her ice armor.

"Why don't you cast a temperature-regulating spell on yourself?" Tang Ping reminded her, her eyes shining. "The Water Spirit Orb doesn't have the function of freezing. It seems my guess was right. Your spiritual energy can only gain new functions when used on magical artifacts. Let's test it again and see if the stats improve after turning into ice."

"Oh."

To facilitate the test, Yu Shujiang manipulated the Water Spirit Orb into a giant ice shield, and then Tang Ping attacked with various weapons, including rifles. Yuan Ji, who was watching from the side, couldn't resist joining in.

After a series of tests, Tang Ping drew four conclusions:

First, physical defense capabilities are greatly enhanced. The original Water Spirit Orb was already comparable to steel, and after turning into ice, it is comparable to a special alloy. Ordinary bullets can hardly leave a mark after hitting it. Yuan Ji used the Azure Dragon Halberd to cleave it with great force, but he could only make a gap and could not cut it open directly. With the Water Spirit Orb's characteristic of being able to change its form at any time, as long as it cannot break through the defense in one hit, it can be healed in an instant.

Second, it has gained a certain elemental resistance. When various spiritual spells are cast on it, the damage will be reduced according to the elemental affinity. The most severely weakened element is fire, which can only exert 20% of its power, while the least weakened element is wood, which can still exert 90% of its power.

Third, the Water Spirit Orb was originally just a tool and did not recognize a master. Anyone who took it could use it. However, after it became a natal magic weapon, only Yu Shujiang could use it. When others held it, it was just a water bead, and no matter how much spiritual power they poured into it, it was useless. But this effect was not very meaningful. After all, if someone really took away the natal magic weapon, they could hurt Yu Shujiang by destroying the magic weapon. There was no need to turn the spearhead around and do something unnecessary.

Fourth, the ice form loses its cushioning effect, unlike the water form, which can protect a person from falling from the sky as long as it envelops them. However, considering that the form can be freely cut, this drawback can be ignored.

"It's been upgraded to a whole new level. If the original Water Spirit Orb was only a second-tier magic weapon, it's now at the level of a third-tier one."

Tang Ping thought to himself, "Just based on this point alone, the spiritual energy of a 'loose immortal' cannot be said to be weak. It may not be top-tier, but it has reached the edge of the first tier. In addition, with its all-around, flawless, and invisible amplification, it truly deserves the title of the strongest spiritual type."

Yuan Ji, eager to try, suggested, "Practicing alone isn't very interesting. Let's have a real spar."

Normally, they would definitely go out to fight monsters, which would create a more realistic combat atmosphere, but right now they have to consider the safety of Tangping, so they can only choose to stay in the venue.

"Yeah."

Yu Shujiang envisioned a whole host of stylish and cool outfits in her mind, thinking about how to pose in the battle to look cool, completely unaware of the kind of opponent she was about to face.

Yuan Ji was acting purely out of interest and had no ill intentions. After thinking for a moment, he said to Ma Feiyan, "You should come too. The two of you working together will give you a chance to win."

"Sister Yuan, please show mercy."

Ma Feiyan's perception was far superior to Yu Shujiang's; she vaguely sensed Yuan Ji's power and proactively lowered her stance.

"Yes, yes, you two go ahead and do it."

Yuan Ji held his halberd in one hand, dragging it on the ground, standing loosely and casually, appearing full of openings at first glance.

Ma Feiyan and Yu Shujiang exchanged a glance. The former took a deep breath, activated her spiritual technique to summon a large amount of mist, and then used a gust of wind to spread the mist, filling the entire venue and obscuring everything, making it impossible to see one's hand in front of one's face.

The latter conjured a set of black rhinoceros armor and a water spear using the Water Spirit Orb. He pointed the spear forward, and dozens of ice spikes appeared in the air and shot out.

"Good teamwork, one person distracts the enemy's vision, and the other launches a long-range sneak attack. It's just a bit slow. In actual combat, the enemy won't just stand there and wait for you to complete your magic."

As Yuan Ji commented, he swung his halberd and shattered the ice spikes.

She could have summoned a gale to disperse the fog, but having promised to show mercy, she couldn't do so. She didn't even use her martial arts intuition; she simply relied on sound to pinpoint the location of all the ice spikes and blocked them all with her halberd.

Then he stomped his leg, releasing a burst of energy that shot out along the ground. This energy was not very lethal, but if the opponent was not prepared, they would lose their balance upon contact.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Yuan Ji charged forward, quickly closing the distance, and swung his halberd toward the spot where the two had been standing.

The result was disappointing!

"what?"

Hearing the noise coming from above, Yuan Ji looked up and vaguely saw two figures appearing and disappearing.

However, Ma Feiyan used her spiritual power to "ride the clouds and mist," carrying Yu Shujiang into the air.

"It's now!"

Yu Shujiang used the Water Spirit Orb to construct a huge ice cage, which descended downwards to trap Yuan Ji inside.

Chapter Ninety-Nine: The Magic Weapon of Deception

Given the sturdiness of the Water Spirit Orb in its ice form, once it covers a person, breaking through it is no easy task.

However, Tang Ping, who was watching the battle, immediately saw the flaw in this tactic. After Yu Shujiang summoned the ice cage, she did not apply any downward force, but simply let the ice cage fall under its own gravity.

Although the two sides were very close, and the ice cage could land in an instant, that "instant" was more than enough for a master like Yuan Ji.

She raised her hand and fired a wind bullet upwards, hitting the ice cage and causing it to pause its descent. Then, she took the opportunity to duck and escape.

"Eh?"

Unexpectedly, the two, who lacked practical experience, were taken aback by this situation.

"Don't get distracted during the battle; always think about what to do next."

As Yuan Ji spoke his warning, he condensed his energy into wings, soared into the sky, and swung his halberd at the two men.

Yu Shujiang was somewhat flustered and hurriedly threw the water spear in her hand. At the same time, she manipulated the water spirit orb to transform into a huge ice shield, covering both her and Ma Feiyan inside.

"Don't take to the air easily unless you are very good at flying, otherwise you will lose the flexibility to maneuver and dodge."

Yuan Ji casually deflected the water spear with his halberd, then swung it and smashed it against the ice shield, instantly sending ice shards flying and making a crisp sound.

"what!"

The ice shield successfully blocked the attack, but the force of the impact was still solidly transmitted to Yu Shujiang, directly slamming her to the ground.

Ma Feiyan rubbed her palms together, about to unleash a palm strike on Yuan Ji, but when their eyes met, her thoughts froze, and she momentarily lost her focus.

By the time she came to her senses, she had already followed in her companion's footsteps, being slapped down by Yuan Ji and landing on Yu Shujiang's back. The two of them fell to the ground together, and the outcome was already decided.

No matter how powerful a magical artifact is, it depends on the person using it.

Even though Yuan Ji was clearly holding back, he still easily defeated the two.

Tang Ping witnessed the whole process and analyzed: "Shu Jiang also made eye contact with Yuan Ji, but she was only flustered and did not lose her composure. This shows that the 'unrestrained' spiritual energy also has a resistance effect on mental intimidation."

"While the ice shield is sturdy, it lacks cushioning. In comparison, the water shield, though less defensive, can absorb impact. Each has its own unique use, hmm..."

He walked up to the water gun that had been knocked away, squatted down, and reached out to touch it.

"The water derived from the Water Spirit Orb loses its invisible binding force once it leaves its original body, becoming ordinary water and no longer solid. It is because of this that I believe it cannot be used for long-range attacks. However, after transforming into ice form, although it will still lose its alloy-like solidity after being shot out, ice itself has a certain degree of hardness. As long as the tip is sharp enough and the initial velocity is fast enough, it can definitely hurt people."

Tang Ping thought for a moment, then got up and walked toward the three people who were exchanging combat experiences—or rather, Yuan Ji was imparting his experience to the other two.

"...Victory or defeat is not determined by the superiority of martial arts skills, but by the clarity of mind. Spells are like stars and fire, ever-changing but easily ensnared by obsession. Martial arts are like still waters running deep, using muscles and bones as blades and breath as pulse. True skill can only be seen in close combat. Fei Yan is skilled in manipulating thunder magic. She should know that thunder magic attacks are as fierce as a torrential downpour. There should be no hesitation between moves. One must be calm. If one is impatient, the magic will be chaotic. Shu Jiang relies too much on techniques and neglects the foundation. Like a mirage, it is ultimately illusory."

Ma Feiyan raised her hand and asked, "Sister Yuan, could you explain it in a simpler and more straightforward way?"

Yuan Ji readily accepted the advice: "Practice more and engage in more real combat. Don't just think about using magic; also practice some fighting skills."

Yu Shujiang nodded and said, "I understand now."

When she saw Tang Ping walking over, she immediately let out a pitiful groan: "Ouch~ it hurts so much, brother, look at my arm, it's all scraped and bleeding, please help me treat it."