Chapter 612: The Significance of Elemental Fire and Electromagnetic Fields - The Quest for Immortality

### Chapter 612: The Significance of Elemental Fire and Electromagnetic Fields The theory behind electromagnetic induction translates into an intricate system of signals through an elemental fire and magnetic field array. This sophisticated formation, known as the "Elemental Fire Array," is a product of intricate electric-magnetic principles. It's a 16-pattern, grade two array valued at over 800 merits. It serves as a yet-anexplored territory of communication arrays. Mo Hua had embarked on mastering his first electromagnetic array under these teachings. Unknown to the disciples of the Vast Void Sect, to the sects of Qianxue State, and to the hidden clans of dark cultivators and demonic sects, he has opened a new gateway for himself. Mo Hua, a seemingly unremarkable beginner at the Vast Void Sect, had begun delving into the complexities of the electromagnetic array. As he unfurled the blueprint of the Elemental Fire Array, Mo Hua discovered something entirely foreign. The formation chart was unfamiliar, contrasting with the five elements and I Ching-style arrays he had studied before. Even among electromagnetic arrays, the design deviated significantly from the smaller setups he had previously encountered. This was a formal, orthodox electrics-centric array system. Mo Hua's curiosity piqued, he immersed himself in studying the array patterns, interpretations, and intricate notes. As he delved deeper, a wave of confusion hit him. The array, surprisingly, consisted of not one, but two detailed schematics—both flaunting sixteen intricate patterns. While the overarching structure seemed similar, the minute details were distinctly different. It wasn't structured like traditional composite arrays, where multiple formations integrate into a singular functional construct. In contrast, the Elemental Fire and Magnetic Array consisted of two interconnected yet entirely independent arrays. Upon recalling Xun Lao Xiansheng's teachings and integrating them with his interpretation, Mo Hua reached a new understanding. These two diagrams represented the fixed "Static Formation Diagram" and the variable "Dynamic Formation Diagram." The static pattern served as the foundation, allowing magnetic induction to affect the dynamic patterns, thereby altering the magnetized ink to manifest visual symbols. Thus, both schematics were meant for "sense induction," each indispensable to the other's function. Uniquely, this array required multiple practitioners to collaboratively construct it—more specifically, static blueprints were singular, while dynamic blueprints could be numerous. For Mo Hua, who possessed formidable spirit perception and a way to mentally backtrack through the daoist stele, learning both formats wasn’t so daunting. Nonetheless, the variety of changes in the formations contrasted with the abstractness of typical I Ching patterns, making the learning process cumbersome. It took him two full days to memorize the complete diagrams. Practicing under the night sky, he engaged the daoist stele, first rehearsing static patterns, followed by dynamic, fusing the two through core connections to achieve electromagnetic induction that would complete a functional Elemental Fire Array. Initial attempts were rocky, with Mo Hua's inexperienced hand resulting in shaky lines. However, after several days, his proficiency grew. The static diagrams came crisply into existence, and while the dynamic patterns were complex, he managed to capture their essence. Venturing into practical application, Mo Hua invested sixty merits for a small vial of magnetic ink. On a basic formation disc, he crafted his rudimentary Elemental Fire communication system. With a static array as the foundation and a dynamic version as the overlay, magnetic ink provided the visible layer. Channeling his spirit into the static patterns, Mo Hua induced changes in the dynamic version, resulting in morphing patterns due to magnetic influence. In coherence with this logic, Mo Hua's expensive, merit-exchanged magnetic ink gradually displayed his name on the formation disc: "Mo Hua." Success! Though the joy was fleeting, as Mo Hua pondered the practicality: This elemental construct, though successful, seemed excessively complex for its simple result: just spelling his own name through mental command. Elemental Fire and Magnetic Array—was this its true potential? How could it effectively serve as a transmission medium? Despite reviewing the entirety of the array transmission guide, Mo Hua found no detailed explanation on communication elements, leading to disappointment. With the formation guide offering no further insight, Mo Hua could only turn to Xun Lao Xiansheng for guidance. Upon hearing Mo Hua's achievement, the elderly scholar expressed mild surprise. "You've grasped the Elemental Fire and Magnetic Array?" Mo Hua modestly replied, "I’m simply intrigued by it..." Acknowledging Mo Hua's humility, Xun Lao Xiansheng relaxed, understanding it to be a lengthy journey to mastery. Engaging in occasional inquiries that seemed overly ambitious for his current skill level, Xun Lao Xiansheng dismissed it good-naturedly. He remarked, "Without a curious spirit, one cannot become an adept formation practitioner." At last, he elaborated, "An integral transmission system relies on the array's core principles, facilitating magnetic induction and influencing dynamic formation. However, true transmission requires interlinked arrays with unified static patterns providing the base, dynamic patterns forming bilateral agreements, and core mechanisms maintaining cohesion." Distinct Elemental Fire and Magnetic Arrays intersect through core sequences for identification: "Different sequences yield varying levels of access and capabilities, even directing communication whether one way, reciprocated, or multi-directed." The discussion, though merely brief, illuminated Mo Hua's understanding with clarity. Familiar with sequences from another context, Mo Hua paralleled his experience. While the Binding Array instituted command through pattern sequences, elemental communication relied on core sequenced constructs. Probing further, "What about this sequenced core? Does it need anchoring to some overarching central core?" Mo Hua inquired, only for Xun Lao Xiansheng to abruptly pause before elaborating. "Naturally..." he affirmed, nearly divulging further detail till realizing its premature nature for Mo Hua’s advancement. Despite initial frustration at withholding, Mo Hua appreciated the guidance, speculating potential in later mentorship. Reluctant to quench Mo Hua's exploratory thirst entirely, Xun Lao Xiansheng graciously offered, "Feel free to ask another question on another topic." Mo Hua, eager for knowledge, quickly prepared his query as directed towards a singular, burning question. He feared that if Mo Hua kept asking questions relentlessly, he might inadvertently spill more than he should, revealing secrets that were better left untold. "Only one question, right?" "Just one!" "Alright then..." Mo Hua sighed. After pondering for a moment, he posed the most peculiar question he had encountered while studying the Elemental Fire and Magnetic Array: "Master Xun, why is it that the electromagnetic array is divided into static and dynamic formations? What's the exact relationship between them? Why does this relationship exist?" Mo Hua’s relentless curiosity showed, a deep sense of wonder on his face. Xun Lao Xiansheng sighed internally. That’s technically more than one question... However, seeing they were related and covered a single subject, he decided it was fine to elaborate. Xun Lao Xiansheng explained: "The true distinction between static and dynamic formations lies in their array patterns." "The static is the foundation, while the dynamic is like its shadow." "You might consider them as a singular array, with the graphic scripts seen as one cohesive pattern." "Only by joining these two can you form a unified construct, forming the basis of a genuine electromagnetic pattern, which is essential for communication arrays..." As he spoke, his expression grew more serious: "There exists a profound yet intricate link between the static and dynamic patterns, one that is too complex and deep to grasp easily." "This led later masters of array formations to innovate by separating the electromagnetic patterns into these two categories – making them easier to understand and construct." "Dividing electromagnetic patterns into static and dynamic..." Mo Hua furrowed his brow. There seemed to be a deeper secrecy hidden within, but due to his limited knowledge, he couldn’t fully articulate this feeling. Xun Lao Xiansheng, noticing Mo Hua's pondering, continued to clarify: "The static electromagnetic array serves as the unified, more fixed pattern..." "While the dynamic pattern offers variability – under certain conditions, it can even be custom-defined..." This revelation left Mo Hua stunned. "For instance..." Xun Lao Xiansheng offered, "Suppose we use the ten heavenly stems of 'Jia' as the static electromagnetic pattern, and my 'teacup' here as the dynamic." "Thus, when I communicate, writing 'Jia' would represent 'teacup'." "This is our agreement..." "But beyond 'teacup', you could assign anything – 'tea leaves', 'tea water', or 'teapot'." "If you know this agreement, you understand that ‘Jia’ signifies ‘teacup’. Without this knowledge, the array's conveyed meaning remains unknown." "Is it for confidentiality?" Mo Hua inquired. Xun Lao Xiansheng nodded, "Indeed, the electromagnetic array fundamentally serves as a form of confidential communication." "'Jia, agreement, teacup'.” "Static, magnetic induction, dynamic." "This embodies the basic yet core logic of such arrays." "Of course, while simple in description, implementing it is highly complex and challenging..." Xun Lao Xiansheng finished and took a sip of tea. Mo Hua, deep in thought, still appeared pensive. Noticing Mo Hua’s contemplative demeanor, Xun Lao Xiansheng nodded slightly before suggesting, "Take your time to ponder this further on your own..." "Thank you, Master Xun." Back in his quarters, Mo Hua was still processing Xun Lao Xiansheng’s words. He understood the explanation, yet other questions left him ever more perplexed... With further reflection, the thought struck him that his learning of the array felt somewhat futile. Despite the presence of both a static and dynamic representation in the Elemental Fire and Magnetic Array schematic he acquired, the dynamic part was endlessly variable and, according to Xun Lao Xiansheng, could be self-defined within certain rules. The schematic seemed more like an "example" than a definitive guide. In this "static pattern – agreement rules – dynamic pattern" closed array structure, Mo Hua couldn't solve the mystery of the Vulture's "communication token." The Vulture's token had its words erased. The static base pattern was intact, well preserved at the bottom due to robust materials used in the token. But any dynamic markings had vanished, taking the magnetic ink with them. Without knowledge of the established relationship between static and dynamic, Mo Hua couldn’t discern nor restore the token’s message. As Xun Lao Xiansheng exemplified: Mo Hua might recognize the character "Jia," yet lacked awareness of the opponent’s "agreement," leaving its interpretation – whether teacup, tea water, or tea leaves – unknown... To discover the other party's "agreement," one would need to construct a complete array diagram containing both the static and dynamic electromagnetic patterns from the token, thereby revealing the agreed code. "No wonder..." Mo Hua sighed. Throwing away the blank token was surely why the Court of the Dao had disposed of it so easily. With its script erased, the communication token lost its purpose. Lacking the complete diagram meant that what remained couldn’t restore or reconstruct it. Yet Mo Hua’s determination persisted. Unable to decode or restore the magnetic patterns made his knowledge of the electromagnetic array seem irrelevant to his initial aims... In the following nights, Mo Hua continued practicing the magnetic array before the daoist stele as usual. For honing spiritual skills, the 16-pattern electromagnetic array still held value to practice. Moreover, it was worth the 800 merit points! He resolved to recoup some of his investment. As he trained, he frequently revisited and rehearsed Xun Lao Xiansheng’s teachings in his mind. There was something he'd overlooked, he was convinced. Mo Hua began dissecting the problem, thread by thread, to find clarity... Through singular arrays forming compound arrays and core linkages enabling simple communication, further functionality, for now, remained beyond current reach... The core sequences... He could ignore them, lacking the ability to build a compound magnetic array, temporarily sidelining core concepts. Thus leading him to consider the patterns next... Mo Hua was momentarily stumped, lingering on a crucial point. Xun Lao Xiansheng mentioned static as the immutable base pattern. Dynamic patterns, on the other hand, could be personalized, following certain rules, or adapt independently. Why should static influence dynamic? Is it merely due to "mutual definition"? Or is it the "agreement"? Mo Hua's thoughts turned more inquisitive, perhaps to the point of overanalyzing, yet he sensed an undercurrent of intrigue. Additionally, why is it named as an electromagnetic pattern? Why not directly name it as an electric-magnetic formation or sub-electroformation? 'Magnetism', it implies both attraction and repulsion… His frown deepened with suspicions as he revisited setting up the full electromagnetic formation on his array disc and activated it, scrutinizing the interplay of static and dynamic elements. Hours passed with no discernible revelations. The static pattern induced changes in the dynamic just as expected, typical and conventional it seemed. Mo Hua focused his spirit perception, employing divining calculations, spending extended time without any emerging insights... The alternative considerations were clear: Either, he was chasing trivial details, seeing nothing untoward in the electromagnetic patterns. Or, his spiritual perception was lacking, with calculative acuity insufficient to unveil deeper truths. Starting from self-evaluation, Mo Hua resolved that his reasoning was sound, but his spiritual capacities were insufficient. Commencing with dark eyes, endowed with water-ink robes, his spirit culminated in a dark silhouette, launching mysterious computations. Overlapping this with integral divine calculations infused with clarity like water, ethereal patterns swirled with divining logic... Even with compounded calculations, no breakthrough emerged. Undeterred, Mo Hua persisted, pushing his spiritual thresholds aggressively, despite mounting pain. The dual computational approaches twisted and tore at his consciousness, compelling him onward... Mo Hua was on the verge of collapse, his consciousness nearing depletion and his vision fading to black when suddenly, his sight flickered to life. In the void of darkness, strands of faintly glowing blue lines appeared before him. These lines were extremely fine and seemed to be without any discernible pattern, dancing between the positive and negative poles like faint streams of... electricity. The realization struck Mo Hua with force. Just as his excitement peaked, his spirit energy gave out, and searing pain surged through his mind. Grasping his head, he collapsed onto the ground, gasping heavily for breath before regaining his composure. Yet amid this, his eyes shone with excitement. He had figured it out! An array master is meticulous with nomenclature, and the reason why electromagnetic arrays are not simply called electric-magnetic arrays is clarified: the essence of the electromagnetic array lies not in the explicit presence of “electricity,” but rather in the weak interactions generated by the relationships of the positive and negative poles of static and dynamic patterns. The intrinsic dual nature within the electromagnetic array materializes faint streams of electricity—these were the fine blue lines he glimpsed through the culmination of his unique calculative technique, seen in those ephemeral blue veins! Those lines, they held the true electric essence! They were indeed the “subsidiary electric lines.” Mastery of these true subsidiary lines—lines connected to electric roots—heralded a deeper understanding of such arrays' core, gradually illuminating the mysteries behind electric formations. If Mo Hua could one day hone his consciousness strength, enhance his calculative power, and deepen his insights... He might even reach a point where, by sheer will, he could wield these subsidiary lines to penetrate the barriers of electric-magnetic formations, infiltrating array cores and claiming supremacy over vast electric networks! Though his vision brightened with comprehension, the escalating pain in his sea of consciousness eventually overwhelmed him, leading him to pass out, falling into a deep slumber on the spot... --- Meanwhile, in an unnamed underground chamber, shrouded in gloom... In that eerie silence, a large grotesque skull sat atop an altar - a humanoid face with ram's horns, fanged and smeared with blood. Mr. Tu knelt before it, his complexion ashen, eyes gleaming with a sickly green hue. His slender fingers bled as he murmured to himself: "Everything was proceeding smoothly..." "That child was the ideal vessel for our Deity, a pure entity of goodness poised to birth boundless darkness upon corruption, malignancy taking root..." "But then..." Mr. Tu's frustration originated from gritted teeth. "Lord Xing... has fallen..." "I can't fathom how..." "Seemingly decimated by some force, with body and soul irrevocably annihilated... reduced to nonexistence." "I'm at a loss..." With pallor worsening, his lips cracked, he trembled, "What existence could possibly pose a threat to Lord Xing..." "Although only a grade two entity, Lord Xing commanded the essence of the Wildlands, wielding Divine Sovereignty, blessed with the Deity’s essence..." As unease crept into his voice, cold sweat poured from his brow, as he frantically disclaimed: "No! No fear, nor wavering loyalty!" "My devotion to the Deity is beyond reproach, visible to all, a testament beneath sun and moon!" --- After swearing an oath and calming himself eventually, Mr. Tu expressed resolute determination: "This individual—the one responsible—must be highly adept..." "At least at the level of a Void Immortal..." "It's an enemy beyond confrontation... Requiring nuanced strategies..." "For now, prioritizing the plan’s execution remains imperative..." --- Speaking lowly, once again Mr. Tu muttered under his breath before eventually prostrating deeply before the bleached ram horned skull. With profound respect and unyielding resolve, he declared: "The hall of blood sacrifice shall remain hidden from all." "The sacred vessels of the Deity are beyond sight." "And the Deity's majesty shall emerge from the Wildlands, destined to upend all dominions!" "So shall the rivers run with blood, and all beings reduce to mere fodder..." "For our Master, eternal in might!" Setting the narrative had cost him much effort, even inspiring parody, but with resolve, he concluded.