Chapter 617: Gu Chang Huai - The Quest for Immortality

Chapter 617: Gu Chang Huai "Three days ago, beyond the borders of Qianxue Prefecture, south of Canglang Mountain, along the Luopan Mountain path, three family disciples were murdered, and their storage bags stolen..." "The Dao Court's inquiry department is currently investigating the scene..." "These three disciples were all at the Foundation Establishment level. After a gathering to discuss the Dao, they were returning to their sect via the Luopan Mountain path. As they passed by Canglang Mountain, an unknown assailant stealthily approached them from behind and pierced each one through the chest with a poisonous dagger spirit tool, leaving them dead." "All three were completely unaware of their impending deaths..." "Mountaineers and descending cultivators alike have not seen any suspicious individuals passing by..." "The identity of the murderer remains a mystery..." A noteworthy comment follows: "The perpetrator must be cunning, highly vigilant, and exceptionally skilled in concealment..." "Those undertaking this bounty, proceed with utmost caution!" It's here! Mo Hua's spirits were lifted. Concealment technique! However, it slightly differed from what he had imagined... He had assumed that the concealment technique was used for theft, not realizing that someone would use it for murder, in such a brutal manner. Mo Hua immediately used the Taixu Token to send a frivolous message to Mu Rong Cai Yun: "Sister, are you there?" A moment later, Mu Rong Cai Yun replied, somewhat helplessly: "What is it? Speak." "Sister, are you free? Want to take up a task?" Before Mu Rong Cai Yun could answer, Mo Hua hastily added: "I found a good task. Are you interested? If you take it, can you bring me along?" "My access level is too low; I'm not allowed to take on many tasks." Mu Rong Cai Yun hesitated for a moment and then sent: "What task?" Mo Hua immediately forwarded the description of an "intriguing murder case." Mu Rong Cai Yun pondered over it for a long time, unable to comprehend what exactly made this a "good" task... A murder case. Three individuals killed without a trace, no clue as to who the perpetrator is, what they look like, what techniques they use, whether they have accomplices, any criminal history, cultivation level—nothing is known. It's merely speculated that this individual is highly proficient in concealment techniques. But that is just speculation. Besides, there are no other leads. Even finding the individual would take considerable time, not to mention tracking and capturing them, possibly all to no avail. Mu Rong Cai Yun intended to politely decline, but just then, she noticed a barrage of messages from Mo Hua in the Taixu Token: "Sister, sister, sister, please take the task…" She could almost picture Mo Hua, eyes full of expectation, looking eagerly at her. Mu Rong Cai Yun couldn't bear to refuse. She even felt an inexplicable guilt at the thought of disappointing her junior apprentice brother after a rejection… Mu Rong Cai Yun sighed. Fine, let's just take the task. Completing it isn't crucial; just a couple of days of resting time wasted, which isn't unprecedented for a fruitless endeavor. Mu Rong Cai Yun agreed, "Alright then…" Mo Hua was overjoyed, "Thank you, Sister!" Sister Mu Rong, truly a great person! As expected, Mu Rong Cai Yun accepted the "Concealment Murder" bounty and invited Mo Hua. Mo Hua eagerly accepted. Thus, the investigation of the "concealment murder case" was set. Withdrawing his consciousness from the Taixu Token, Mo Hua realized Cheng Mo and the others were all staring at him. "What is it?" Mo Hua appeared puzzled. "You…" Si Tu Jian curiously asked, "What were you looking up in the Taixu Token?" Mo Hua blinked. Access levels, bounties, merits—all these privileges were courtesy of Mr. Xun. It wouldn't be appropriate to divulge. Besides, such bounty hunts and pursuits of malevolent individuals are too premature for them… These young masters, "protected by their families," are not ready for such risks. Unlike himself, who is the "senior brother." Such dangerous tasks are better suited for him. Mo Hua nodded with a sense of "responsibility" and found an excuse: "I was checking the timetable to see what classes I have next and what spells to learn..." The other disciples eyed Mo Hua skeptically. Their expressions seemed to say, I'd believe you if pigs could fly… Seeing their disbelief, Mo Hua reluctantly said: "Okay, I was actually considering how much homework to assign during formation class…" This immediately stirred outrage. No one doubted him then. "Mo Hua!" "Can't we remain friends?" "I advise you to reconsider…" "I'll decide my own level in formations; don't meddle!" "Don't disregard the bonds of our shared sect!" Even "formation dummy" Cheng Mo was on the brink of tears, "Brother, I beg you, enough already, there's too much homework, I can't finish it…" Mo Hua feigned a difficult expression and sighed: "In that case, let's forget it." Cheng Mo immediately beamed with relief, putting an arm around Mo Hua's shoulders, declared merrily: "Great! From now on, you are my brother, my dear brother!" …… Two days later, during their rest period. For safety, Mo Hua requested an extra day off, totaling three days available. After class, Mo Hua left Tai Xu Sect's mountain gate. At their usual spot—a large rock at the foot of Tai Xu Sect's mountain—he met with the group. It was still five people. Mu Rong Cai Yun, Ouyang Feng, Hua Qian Qian, and Shangguan Xu were all there. Shangguan Xu had recovered and was ready for action. Though the Shangguan family is prestigious, their many disciples meant even core members like Shangguan Xu must earn merits through effort. Hua Qian Qian, the daughter of a direct elder in the Hundred Flowers Valley, was doted upon and expected to join their inner circle and become a core disciple. However, she avoided gossip, aiming to earn merits independently and advance within the sect. These insights Mo Hua gathered from Sister Mu Rong, piecing together clues from the context. Close enough, he reckoned. After all, in the Qianxue Prefecture, no disciple shuns earning merits. Shangguan Xu, who knew Mo Hua well, greeted him with a nod and a smile. Hua Qian Qian also greeted Mo Hua with a charming smile, her bright eyes glimmering. Yet Mo Hua felt that this sister seemed to harbor "ulterior motives" when eyeing him. Wondering what she was plotting, her gaze full of subtle allure. Sensing the watchful Hua Qian Qian, Mo Hua cautiously edged closer to Sister Mu Rong for safety. Mu Rong Cai Yun watched him, understanding the sentiment. Once assembled, they set off towards Canglang Mountain. Though near the Qianxue Prefecture boundary, the Domen, overseeing Qianxue Prefecture, lies alongside the path to Canglang Mountain. Their first stop was the Dao Court to confirm identities, take up the bounty, and inquire about clues from the victims. With horses' hooves clattering against the earth, they arrived at the Dao Court after over an hour’s ride. As Mo Hua dismounted, he gazed up, immediately struck by the grandeur and majesty of the Dao Court Pavilion—a towering structure with flying eaves like golden wings, brimming with solemnity. It appeared as if a mighty seal had been stamped upon the mountain, guarding the entirety of Qianxue Prefecture. The large inscription above read: Qianxue Prefecture Dao Court. This was the Qianxue Prefecture's fifth-grade Dao Court… Mo Hua was deeply awed. In the face of such a grand and stern Dao Court, Mo Hua felt like a frail sapling at the base of a mountain. Ouyang Feng patted Mo Hua on the shoulder, gently saying: "There’s some bluff to this display. Visit a few more times, and you'll understand." Mo Hua paused, looking up again, then suddenly realized: "Formations?" Ouyang Feng was taken aback but then smiled: "Indeed, the Dao Court Pavilion was constructed with formations that amplify its imposing dignity, making newcomers feel insignificantly small, as if…" Pointing upwards, Ouyang Feng continued in a low voice, "The authority of the Dao Court is unparalleled and inviolable…" "So that’s how it is…" Mo Hua nodded. Realizing the trick, his reverence lessened. Following Sister Mu Rong inside, he faced further disappointment. Though the Dao Court appeared profoundly majestic from outside, inside, reality didn’t seem so imposing. Inside, the Dao Court seemed rife with inefficiency, overstaffed, and burdened by an air of stagnation. Many of the officials wore stern expressions, and their conversations carried a certain patronizing disdain. Faces were unsightly, words unpleasant. For a third or fourth-grade official, perhaps that might be expected. Yet even several trivial second-grade officials carried an air of undue self-importance. Occasionally, one might spot a few sharp-eyed, highly cultivated Dao Court officials whose demeanor suggested competence, though they were few and stood out awkwardly within the overall bureaucratic atmosphere of the Dao Court. Mo Hua intended to ask a question but refrained, wary of eavesdroppers, especially inside a fifth-grade Dao Court where high-level cultivators were abundant. Any carelessly spoken words might easily be overheard. Led by Mu Rong Cai Yun, they verified their identities, accepted the bounty, and collected several dossiers, completing the necessary formalities. Belonging to a noble family, being a disciple of the Tai Xu Sect, and possessing exceptional appearance and talent, Mu Rong Cai Yun was treated courteously by the Dao Court officials. The visit passed without any cold receptions or obstacles. "Turns out they play favorites…" Mo Hua muttered to himself. As they were about to leave, they were halted by an official saying, "Wait, Gu Officer has some instructions to impart…" Gu Officer? Mo Hua felt a jolt as a possibility crossed his mind… Moments later, a person walked over from a distance; Mo Hua glanced up, confirming his suspicion… The approaching man was handsome, donned in the Dao Court's official attire, possessing a refined demeanor. Although not overly arrogant, there was an unquestionable air of defiance in his brows. It was the young master Gu Chang Huai, whom Mo Hua had encountered a few times. Gu Chang Huai's voice was cool, calm, and deliberate, yet contained a measure of self-assurance: "This matter is quite tricky; I wasn't intending to let disciples like you take on this task. I notified the Dao Court to withdraw it, but it seems you've already accepted…" "Every matter follows protocol; since you've accepted, there's nothing more to be done, but I must caution you on several points…" As Gu Chang Huai spoke, his sharp eyes barely grazed over Mu Rong Cai Yun and the others until his peripheral vision caught onto Mo Hua… Gu Chang Huai visibly paused. Mo Hua could see Gu Chang Huai blink slightly as if verifying that his eyes weren't deceiving him. A pure, innocent face and deep, clear eyes— there wasn't another like it in the entire Qianxue Prefecture. There was no way Gu Chang Huai could mistake him. Gu Chang Huai paused momentarily before addressing him slowly: "Mo… Hua?" "Yes, yes," Mo Hua nodded earnestly, greeting, "Hello, Uncle Gu." Mu Rong Cai Yun displayed a hint of surprise, as did the nearby officials, evidently not expecting Mo Hua to be acquainted with Gu Chang Huai. Gu Chang Huai tried to maintain composure but couldn't help asking Mo Hua: "What are you doing here?" Mo Hua pointed to Mu Rong Cai Yun, "I came with my senior sister to take on a bounty." Gu Chang Huai furrowed his brow, "What bounty?" Mo Hua replied, "The one you just mentioned…" Gu Chang Huai's eyelids twitched, staring at Mo Hua's youthful yet determined expression, perplexed, "You just joined, didn't you…" How is such a new initiate already taking tasks? How did he even manage to have seniors take him along? This kid… carries significant weight? Gu Chang Huai was at a loss. Mo Hua corrected him, "I didn't just join; it's been half a year!" The implication was as if he had achieved something remarkable. Gu Chang Huai felt a headache coming on. Yet, with so many people present, it wasn't the place for a "reunion" with Mo Hua, so he simply nodded stiffly. "I understand." Gu Chang Huai cast another glance at Mo Hua before addressing the main issue: "The perpetrator is roughly at mid-Foundation Establishment level, adept in concealment, exhibiting cold and ruthless methods, extremely discreet, and difficult to guard against…" "A late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, even one who just entered late-stage, would be at significant risk encountering such 'hidden slayer' cultivators." "If caught off guard while being approached in concealment, there's no defending against his lethal strike…" "You, being disciples, are inexperienced, which makes it challenging to contend against such a devious, malicious cultivator." "This murderer is undoubtedly a repeat offender." "I searched the archives and found one wanted for heinous deeds fitting the profile. His real name remains unknown to the Dao Court, but among cultivators, he's referred to as 'Hidden Second'…" Hidden Second… Ouyang Feng and the others appeared contemplative. Only Mo Hua nodded silently, confident in his earlier speculation. Gu Chang Huai noted Mo Hua's reaction and was further astonished. Could it be that Mo Hua… already knew the perpetrator was this Hidden Second? Even though he had spent ample time searching the Dao Court's confidential records to figure out this connection, how did Mo Hua, a mere sect novice, know about it? This child certainly has some peculiarities… Gu Chang Huai gave Mo Hua a profound look. Sensing Gu Chang Huai's gaze, Mo Hua lowered his eyes, trying to appear earnest and honest. Gu Chang Huai continued: "This kind of experienced wicked cultivator, particularly adept at concealment, truly ought to be dealt with by a third-grade officer, using overwhelming force to eliminate him…" "But manpower in the Dao Court is limited, each rank designated to settle crimes of equivalent rank." "A Foundation Establishment criminal doesn't warrant a Golden Core-level pursuit." "Nevertheless, this individual is indeed troublesome and formidable, prompting me to inform you that canceling the task would not incur penalties." Ouyang Feng and the others exchanged glances, each shaking their head resolutely. As prideful prodigies, they harbored no fear in confronting a mid-Foundation Establishment criminal, regardless of the difficulty. Gu Chang Huai's gaze revealed a modicum of approval as he handed out several dossiers: "These are Hidden Second's records, including his background, cultivation methods, and other important details. Study them closely to stay prepared." Mu Rong Cai Yun accepted the dossiers, offering a courteous bow: "Thank you, Officer Gu." Gu Chang Huai nodded slightly and turned to leave, though not before casting another look at Mo Hua, who appeared unfazed by the task ahead. Hidden Second is a crafty menace, exceedingly difficult to confront. Even seasoned officials might struggle to detect and counter Hidden Second's sneak attacks. Why Mo Hua, this young boy, was drawn into such a venture befuddled Gu Chang Huai. Though Mo Hua's demeanor charmed him, he seemed peculiarly intriguing, initially wishing to steer clear. But recalling the boy's role in saving Yu'er, and the affection shown by his cousin, Gu Chang Huai sighed faintly, deciding to offer a word of advice: "Be careful…" Mo Hua was momentarily surprised. The others were equally startled. Especially the Dao Court official, who never anticipated that Gu, typically cold and aloof, would express concern for another… Truly astounding… Mo Hua smiled, "Alright, Uncle Gu." Gu Chang Huai nodded, then departed. With all the formalities completed, the group set off to apprehend Hidden Second. According to the records, Hidden Second, over two hundred years old, was once a disciple of the Five Hidden Sect, one of the Hundred Sects of Qianzhou. However, the Five Hidden Sect, with its esoteric teachings, struggled to recruit disciples and gradually declined. Eventually, fifty years ago, it sold its mountain gate and moved out of Qianxue Prefecture. The rise and fall of sects is not uncommon. Yet despite the sect's departure, Hidden Second remained, continuing his misdeeds utilizing the esoteric Five Hidden Sect's teachings. His expertise lay in a concealment technique called "Lesser Five Element Stealth." Mo Hua felt a sense of delight. Lesser Five Elements… His spiritual roots were also of the Lesser Five Elements, and he felt as if this concealment technique was tailor-made for him. The secrets of destiny calculation indeed showcased their worth. The group departed from the Dao Court. While Mu Rong Cai Yun and the others recalled Officer Gu's words, their faces bore some gravity, Mo Hua seemed light-footed and cheerful. He envisioned the Lesser Five Element Stealth beckoning him. Mo Hua may have appeared unassuming in many areas, yet his spiritual sense was exceptionally strong. Thus, he particularly relished dealing with cultivators skilled in stealth, those sly and sneaky types... Meanwhile, deep in the heart of Canglang Mountain. In an initially deserted woodland, a figure suddenly emerged. This newcomer was a gaunt, short stature, with a visage both menacing and wrinkled. He scanned his surroundings, furrowing his brows. After slaying three individuals, he had retreated to this remote locale, lying low. This was his customary routine. Yet in recent days, an irksome anxiety plagued him. As if some malevolent "presence" had locked onto him with ill intent… Hidden Second couldn't fathom it. Without any apparent reason or trace left behind, how could someone possibly be keeping an eye on him, and how were they even capable of doing so? Hidden Second shook his head. Regardless, this was a critical moment, and he had to endure without making any mistakes. Those three were already a slip-up. Should another mistake occur, Mr. Tu would undoubtedly kill him, dismember him, and offer him up as a sacrifice to the demonic slaves of the God Master. The thought sent a shiver down Hidden Second's spine. He enjoyed slicing others open but had no desire to suffer the same fate, serving as fodder for those half-human, half-demon creatures… (End of this chapter)