Chapter 624: The Chives - The Quest for Immortality

Chapter 624: The Chives Mr. Xun, blissfully unaware, had no idea what he had done right in front of Mo Hua... But as he finished altering the permissions, an inexplicable shiver ran through his heart. Although the sensation was subtle and fleeting, Mr. Xun was left momentarily bewildered, puzzled. "I haven't done much, so why do I suddenly feel a bit uneasy..." he pondered. All he did was adjust some permissions for Mo Hua, which shouldn't be a violation of the clan rules. Moreover, it was I who set some of these traditions... "Could it be due to something else?" he wondered. As he tried to pinpoint the cause, everything seemed to have vanished into thin air. What was stolen, was already taken. The cause had already formed the consequence. Mr. Xun furrowed his brows and, after contemplating for a while, finally breathed a sigh of relief. This should have nothing to do with the Tai Xu Sect... With that reassurance, he decided not to bother with it any longer. "The matters of other sects are beyond what an old man like me should meddle with..." Feeling at ease, he turned back and handed the Tai Xu Order back to Mo Hua, only to pause for a moment. Mo Hua's fair-skinned face was lit with delight, his eyes twinkling like stars in the sky. Mr. Xun was taken aback. What has this child figured out again? Yet I didn't teach him anything significant, did I? Just altering a permission, what exactly could he learn from that? Mr. Xun frowned and was quite baffled. "Keep the Tai Xu Order safe..." he instructed. Mo Hua snapped back to reality, nodding eagerly, "Yes, yes." He accepted the Tai Xu Order with a smile. "Why is this kid so happy?" Mr. Xun couldn't help but wonder to himself. Having revised the Tai Xu Order and absorbed what he shouldn't have, Mo Hua took his leave. "By the way..." Mr. Xun suddenly recalled something and asked, "You seem to have accumulated quite a number of merit points?" When adjusting Mo Hua's Tai Xu Order, he inadvertently noticed it contained over a hundred merit points. A novice's introductory merit tasks typically earn only a few points each. Accumulating over a hundred points would take considerable time. And who knows how many formations he drew, or how many times he swept the stairs, or visited the mountain gate... Mo Hua nodded, "Yes, I've worked hard to gather them!" In recent days, the criminals he's captured or executed for the Dao Courts could fill a line on the Path of Yellow Springs. It earned him more than a thousand merit points in total! He bought six second-tier sixteen-pattern formations and still hadn't spent it all! Mo Hua brimmed with pride. Mr. Xun nodded slightly, praising him, "Not bad, keep it up!" Mo Hua assured, "Don't worry, sir!" ... After bidding farewell to Mr. Xun, Mo Hua rushed back to his quarters, eager to delve into "altering"—not "tampering with"—permissions. Permission modification! This is the true application of secondary thunder patterns. While Mo Hua had deduced and collected several secondary thunder patterns before, he hadn't grasped their principles and fundamental uses completely. But now, kindly guided by Mr. Xun, he was shown a pathway. Over and over in his mind, Mo Hua replayed Mr. Xun's process of modifying the Tai Xu Order, summarizing key points: First, mastering the secondary thunder patterns is crucial. Simply amassing a "library of secondary thunder patterns" isn't enough; profound understanding and true mastery of their application are essential. Previously, his usage was reliant on guesswork and intuition to select patterns for unlocking and decrypting. It was like having a collection of "keys" and gambling on opening others' locks. Although this "gamble" was based on solid formation skills and extremely complex, mysterious calculations using divine sense, it was still somewhat crude. The technique lacked in sophistication. Now, however, Mr. Xun demonstrated a novel approach. Controlling the secondary thunder patterns to inversely affect the variable magnetic patterns, altering fixed ones, thereby reconstructing foundational formations and modifying core permissions. It's akin to melting a "key" into "golden fluid," freely altering formations as you'd tweak a "lock." Not merely "unlocking," but "modifying" it. An unlocked formation retains its original essence, still granting entry to someone else's "home." Whereas altering the lock reshapes the foundational pattern, transforming the permissions. The question of ownership for this "home," crafted of primordial magnetic formations, becomes ambiguous. Entry would be solely dictated by your discretion... At the heart lies the esoteric, somewhat subtle yet essential connection between the magnetic patterns—the secondary thunder flow, known as the "secondary thunder pattern." Secondly, learning about the magnetic pattern's form is critical. To modify patterns using secondary thunder requires studying various primordial magnetic formations, understanding and harmonizing fixed and variable patterns. This knowledge is necessary for eventual modifications of primordial magnetic formations using secondary thunder patterns, knowing the methods, shapes, and effects these changes will yield... Third, the primordial magnetic nexus. But for now, Mo Hua doesn't fully grasp the complexity of the primordial magnetic nexus. His understanding doesn't yet encompass it, nor does he know its application. However, based on Mr. Xun’s past words of guidance, Mo Hua speculates that large primordial magnetic formations are controlled layer by layer through the nexus, with even the core permissions relying on it. The unveiling and decryption of inheritance jade slips involve single primordial magnetic formations, not concerning nexus-level controls. In contrast, communicative orders like Tai Xu Orders are distinct. These formations are generally matters of seventeen-pattern complexity or more. Mo Hua knows he will need more powerful divine sense to learn the related formations gradually… ... Mo Hua took a moment to compile his thoughts. From secondary thunder patterns to dual-rule magnetic formations to the thunder-magnetic strata nexus. This is the methodical and orderly process, encapsulated in the intricate and clearly defined system of learning and applying thunder-magnetic formations, generously demonstrated by Mr. Xun. Feeling grateful towards Mr. Xun, Mo Hua drew up a plan for his study of primordial magnetic formations: The foreseeable tasks include learning as many primordial magnetic formations as possible, amassing secondary thunder patterns, and initially experimenting with pattern alterations. With a stronger divine sense, he'd tackle more advanced formations with seventeen patterns or above. Then come the multi-layered formations containing nexus structures. Once the patterns are second nature, the nexus clear in mind, and secondary thunder patterns as fluid as his own arms... Finally, he'd step by step grasp its full application within the sect’s merit systems, becoming both the "shadow" stealing secrets and the "master" ruling over thunder-magnetic formations. Upon cracking the ultimate formation, his authority would eclipse all nexus levels. The secrets across the sect domains of Qianxuezhou would be within his reach. Mo Hua daydreamed gleefully. Though, for now, it's just a vision. Having merely reached the foundation stage, and just begun learning the sixteen-pattern beacon primordial magnetic formations, he is still far from the goal… Patience will be required for the journey; formations learned one by one. The enhancement of divine sense is never overnight. Calmly, Mo Hua returned to his focused study of formations, continuing his exploration and documentation of "secondary thunder patterns." But with a framework set, his learning ceased to be as aimless as before, and his understanding of secondary thunder patterns grew deeper. The secondary thunder patterns appeared to come alive, forming a subtle connection with Mo Hua… He sensed these complex patterns, finding resonance with the faint magnetic currents and the enigmatic principles of the Great Dao. They seemed to be gradually aligning with his divine sense... Profound and intricate. Yet hindered by the strength of his divine sense, the process was slow. Mo Hua realized significantly that his divine sense was still insufficient... There remained much he wished to learn, for which he was unprepared. Sixteen-pattern divine sense. Comparatively, his divine sense far exceeded that of his peers, within the same generation and cultivation level. But when it came to the truly profound calculations of divine sense and the comprehension of advanced formations, even if his sixteen-pattern divine sense had undergone a qualitative change, it still felt quite stretched. His current divine sense wasn't enough to support further research into more sophisticated formation topics. Yet, the growth of divine sense is like a gentle stream merging into a river, step by step—not something that can be rushed. Mo Hua sighed. Without any "additional nourishment," he could only patiently continue learning formations, slowly refining his divine sense... ... Roughly half a month later, on a certain night, at the hour of midnight. Mo Hua, after completing his studies for the day and learning several Eight Trigrams formations, was ready to enter his sea of consciousness to simulate primordial magnetic formations and deduce secondary thunder patterns when he suddenly sensed an anomaly. From next door, he sensed something peculiar—an enigmatic, chilling, ominous aura. It felt as though some sinister cause-and-effect was surreptitiously brewing, hideous fiends drooling, hanging down from the ceiling... Mo Hua's eyes lit up. The chives! They’ve grown! He quickly got up and had barely stepped outside when he encountered Wen Ren Wei. Wen Ren Wei, a towering figure, stood at his door with a grave expression, clearly hesitating whether to disturb Mo Hua.   Seeing Mo Hua exit, he appeared surprised, then cupped his hands in respect, saying: "Young Master Mo, it seems Yu Young Master is having nightmares again..." Mo Hua nodded, reiterating, "I'm not from a noble family; there's no need to call me that." Wen Ren Wei nodded, "Understood." Yet his demeanor remained formal and respectful, clearly indicating that although he agreed, he had no intentions of changing how he addressed Mo Hua. Helpless, Mo Hua proceeded to check on Yu Er. Yu Er's room was cozy and inviting, with a screen dividing the space—Wen Ren Wei stayed on the outer side. Inside, Yu Er's bed was simple and soft, with a fluffy blanket surrounded by scenic screens and a fragrant incense to soothe the mind. The atmosphere seemed serene and elegant to the naked eye. Yet, upon the bed, Yu Er frowned, his small limbs flailing as if trapped in terror. Wen Ren Wei looked concerned, sensing something amiss but clueless about what transpired. Glancing upwards, Mo Hua's pupils deepened. He saw causative patterns weaving in the void, viscous dark water seeping from the ceiling, with demonic arms and claws sprouting like "chives" from the void. Mo Hua involuntarily licked his lips and said to Wen Ren Wei, "Uncle Wei, perhaps take a rest outside. I'll watch over here." Wen Ren Wei hesitated, concerned, "Young Master Mo, this..." "It's alright," Mo Hua smiled before picking up a cushion and seating himself beside Yu Er, shielding him from the demons, appearing relaxed and perhaps even a bit... Anticipatory? As though he were awaiting the serving of a dish... Wen Ren Wei hesitated briefly but then bowed respectfully, "Then I'll leave it to you, Young Master Mo." Afterwards, Wen Ren Wei remained vigilant outside, keeping a close eye on his surroundings while a fraction of his focus stayed on Mo Hua. Anxiety gnawed at him. The matter concerning Yu Young Master was strange. He'd only heard rumors, never witnessed it firsthand. Now, seeing it himself, with Yu Young Master ensnared in nightmares, seemingly haunted by malevolent spirits... His senses revealed nothing amiss, though. It seemed to be entangled with causal spirals, bridging the virtual and real realms. Even with his cultivation level, he found no traces... Yet, he was aware that the young Mo Hua clearly "saw" something. What kind of bizarre, sinister force could escape the notice of a late-stage Jindan cultivator, yet be perceived by a foundation-stage junior... Wen Ren Wei was puzzled, eyebrows furrowed in thought. Suddenly, the ambience shifted. Wen Ren Wei vaguely sensed something furious and malicious, stirring gusts of ominous wind. Then, as if in a trance. The young Mo Hua paled, closing his eyes as though shielding Yu Young Master from some "malefic energy." A tremor ran through Wen Ren Wei, and an added layer of respect for Mo Hua emerged. So young, yet showing such selflessness—it was truly remarkable... ... In his sea of consciousness, Mo Hua opened his eyes. Everything was as usual. A scene of suffocating dark waters, grotesque demons with twisted smiles, absurd yet wicked—akin to a purgatorial descent. The demons eyed Mo Hua’s youthful, "innocent" spiritual form with avaricious hunger. In their eyes, Mo Hua appeared merely as an "appetizer." Nonetheless, Mo Hua swiftly enlightened them. He made it clear who the true "appetizer" was. With a cold smirk, Mo Hua's fingers sliced through the air like an unyielding judge's pen, decreeing judgment over these demonic fiends. A grand formation emerged. Bright red patterns intertwined chaotically on the ground, magma flowing. Jagged rocks encased the scene, forming a cage. The formation ignited into blazing flames, trapping and incinerating the fiends, reducing them to ashes. Subsequently, Mo Hua opened his mouth, swallowing the essence whole. Afterward, he licked his lips, feeling unfulfilled, and searched his surroundings disappointingly. Seeing the dark waters spreading, the thick miasma, he'd expected a bigger catch—horned emissaries and the like, for a taste of golden spiritual "marrow." Alas, there were none. Just lower-level fiends, fit for a mere snack. “When will a horned emissary show up...” Mo Hua wondered, retracting from his sea of consciousness, and, eyeing Yu Er, ensured he was at peace in his sleep. Assured, he tucked Yu Er in and moved to leave, addressing Wen Ren Wei: "Uncle Wei, everything should be fine now. I'll get going." Wen Ren Wei, shocked and awed, bowed with respect: "Thank you, Young Master Mo." As Mo Hua departed, Wen Ren Wei called out hesitantly, pausing before he spoke: "Young Master Mo, should you ever require assistance, please do not hesitate." Surprised by Wen Ren Wei's offer but not declining his goodwill, Mo Hua smiled: "Thank you, Uncle Wei." ... Returning to his room, Mo Hua resumed meditation. Having indulged, he needed to “digest”. In meditation, with his heart poised, he expunged any lingering negative thoughts, gradually refining the absorbed demonic spiritual essence. His divine sense showed apparent enhancement. The gain, likened to a month’s formation study… Though still distant from the seventeen-pattern level, such a “windfall” of gained spiritual insight was indeed substantial. "If only there were always 'meals' like this..." Mo Hua mused, though quickly berated himself for being overly greedy. An occasional feast suffices—one can’t dine daily. These demons weren’t literally “chives”. Even if they were, they couldn't sprout fresh every day so quickly. Mo Hua continued his calm meditation, relentlessly pursuing his cultivation, though the scene of demonic emergence lingered in his thoughts. The void's patterns, the chains of cause and effect, the viscous black water... “They must be summoned by someone,” Mo Hua pondered, “How are they linked through these causal chains to Yu Er?” Mulling over this thought, Mo Hua’s eyes brightened with a sudden idea. If he could discern the method to control these fiends, couldn’t he perhaps... Remotely manipulate them to “deliver” more? “Even stop them from seeking out Yu Er.” “Poor child, frightened nightly, denied sleep—it’s truly unfortunate.” “Let them come find me instead…” “I don’t require sleep. I can entertain them throughout.” Mo Hua mused, planning eagerly and loudly in his mind. Mo Hua made a mental note of the situation, resolving to understand this causal mechanism when he had the time, and to find a way to change the "address." Demons and fiends are dangerous and shouldn’t always be someone else's responsibility to deal with. If parcels could be delivered directly to his doorstep, it would be so much more convenient... Mo Hua nodded, feeling that his idea was entirely reasonable. ... Meanwhile, moments earlier, within the forbidden grounds at the back mountain of the Tai Xu Sect. In the solemn expanse of the sword grave, an elderly man, emaciated yet with a long, flowing beard, opened his eyes. Like the birth of chaos, his gaze pierced with sword-like sharpness, carrying unmatched might. "What manner of fiend dares manifest here in the domain of Tai Xu?" With a flick of his fingers, he intended to trace the threads of fate, deducing cause from effect, and sever the demonic influence with his sword. Yet, as he began his divination, his brows furrowed. "Vanished..." "Gone..." "Did something... 'consume' it?" The old man was taken aback. "Since when did the Tai Xu Sect harbor a 'divine beast' that consumes evil spirits?" Thank you 101101hong,不可测, PYHuang, 20210612103959082 for your rewards~ (.) (The End of the Chapter)