Chapter 639: Restoration - The Quest for Immortality

**Chapter 639: Restoration** "How does one 'restore' a transmission talisman?" After several days of exploration, poring over numerous books on formations, and applying his understanding of the "Beacon Magnet Formation," Mo Hua had managed to grasp the general idea. Restoring the transmission talisman relies on the principle of "magnetic transmission of messages." Typically, the magnet formation in ordinary jade slips is a single formation. However, the transmission talisman involves a composite magnetic formation. A composite magnetic formation requires a formation hub to control the magnetic patterns and the transmission of messages between different magnetic formations. Through the transmission talisman in his possession, Mo Hua discovered: To send a message to Uncle Gu, he must first use his consciousness to manipulate the magnetic ink to manifest words. As the words appear and the magnetic ink transforms, it causes changes in the indeterminate magnetic patterns. These changes are passed on through subtle lightning patterns to reach the fixed magnetic patterns. The control of the hub in the fixed magnetic patterns, along with the magnetic pattern's sensing, transmits these changes to another transmission talisman within the same composite formation—namely, Uncle Gu's transmission talisman, influencing the base-level fixed magnetic patterns within it. Then, Uncle Gu's transmission talisman, through the base fixed magnetic patterns, receives the sense. Subsequently, via the process involving subtle lightning patterns, indeterminate magnetic patterns, magnetic ink, and words, this sensing is displayed as text. The entire process represents the transfer of text information from one transmission talisman, layer by layer, through magnetic ink, indeterminate magnetic patterns, subtle lightning patterns, fixed magnetic patterns, and the formation hub’s sensing, delivering to another transmission talisman. Thus, connecting both creates a complete, intricate cycle of a composite magnetic formation. Mo Hua sighed. These are not currently within his reach. With his current level of consciousness, he has yet to learn such complex composite magnetic formations. At least a seventeen-pattern, late Foundation Establishment level of consciousness is required. Fortunately, to "restore" the text on a transmission talisman, mastering the entire magnetic transmission complex formation isn't necessary, just the extraction of the final portion of the magnetic transmission process. Because once the text is transmitted, the process is set. Erasing text only eliminates the final magnetic ink and alters the indeterminate magnetic patterns; the other processes remain unchanged. Fixed magnetic patterns remain constant. Magnetic flow, residual lightning flow, appears in the magnetic movement, leaving behind subtle lightning patterns, which are also fixed. Therefore, one only needs to reconstruct the fixed magnetic patterns in the transmission talisman. By calculating and observing the residual subtle lightning patterns of the magnetic flow, one can record them. Using the fixed magnetic patterns along with the subtle lightning patterns allows the simulation of indeterminate magnetic patterns. Once the indeterminate magnetic patterns are determined, they can use magnetic ink to "restore" into text. Mo Hua nodded in agreement. He had worked out this entire formation logic himself; there might be some flaws, but overall, it should be accurate. Once the transmission talisman is used, it undoubtedly produces magnetic flow, with traces of residual subtle lightning patterns. These subtle lightning patterns are weak and obscure, invisible to the average cultivator. However, with the integration of celestial algorithms to amplify his consciousness, he could observe these concealed subtle lightning patterns. The only problem currently was with the fixed magnetic patterns... Mo Hua discovered that the fixed magnetic patterns differed in each transmission talisman. This realization came after dismantling the transmission talisman that Gu Changhuai had given him. Mo Hua gazed at the talisman in his hands, now split into two exposing the base fixed formation patterns. Due to his "rough" approach, the jade talisman bore some cracks and was now a "battle-damaged" version of a transmission talisman, prompting a sigh... For the sake of studying the formations, Mo Hua "sacrificed" the transmission talisman given by Uncle Gu... He had three talismans, all related to the principles of magnetic message transmission. The Void Sect's Void Talisman was out of the question to dismantle. He neither had the ability to dismantle it. Bald Eagle's transmission talisman was also off-limits for now. There might be secrets held within; breaking it would mean losing those secrets. Thus, after much deliberation, he ended up taking apart the talisman given by Uncle Gu. Breaking it might only mean needing to apologize to Uncle Gu, with no significant loss otherwise. Through the "practice makes perfect" dismantling, Mo Hua genuinely understood some of the formation logic within. He also realized if he wants to restore "magnetic patterns" to recover "text," the current major roadblock is the fixed magnetic patterns. Because Mo Hua found that he couldn't comprehend the fixed magnetic patterns in the transmission talisman... While he had mastered the second-rank sixteen-pattern Beacon Magnet Formation's fixed magnetic patterns. Yet, the fixed formation patterns in the transmission talisman were perplexing. The formations were similar in shape but had considerable variations in detail. It was apparent they belonged to the same category of formations, but distinguishing the specific meaning of each pattern was challenging. This isn't like Five Elements or Eight Trigrams type formations. Though the Five Elements and Eight Trigrams formations could vary, their basic patterns were identical. It was plain to see each pattern corresponded to an element or trigram in the Five Elements and Eight Trigrams. For example, a fire type formation naturally symbolized "fire." However, magnetic formations are much more abstract, akin to ideographic or associative characters. It’s impossible to ascertain their symbolism. The functions in jade slips, transmission talismans, or even the Void Talisman are all determined by the fixed magnetic patterns. Failing to understand these fixed magnetic patterns' meanings might mean learning magnetic formations could be no more than "copying by rote." Knowing the result but not the reasoning behind it. Mo Hua sighed. He initially thought mastering the Beacon Magnet Formation signified at least an entry-level understanding, but he hadn’t anticipated that he might just have skimmed the surface. The deeper he delves, the more advanced and complex things become. "The meaning of fixed magnetic patterns..." Mo Hua retrieved the Void Talisman and searched the "Merit Record," but after searching for a long time, he found nothing about formation diagrams, texts, or explanations related to fixed magnetic patterns... "The Void Sect doesn't have it?" "That shouldn't be possible..." After pondering, Mo Hua decided to visit the elders' residence after class and consulted with Old Mr. Xun. "Fixed magnetic patterns?" Old Mr. Xun was surprised. "Yes." Mo Hua nodded, "Sir, I wish to know what meanings do the fixed magnetic patterns hold..." Old Mr. Xun felt a bit conflicted. This again surpassed his expectations about knowledge transmission in formations... And the further this goes, the deeper into specifics it gets... Certain knowledge within the transmission curriculum, Mo Hua’s queries could be answered readily and without reservation. But this child kept asking questions beyond the prescribed scope... Not telling him might allow for misconceptions and encounters with unknown subjects, which is undesirable. Yet teaching him, these concepts are not typically for someone of his age or cultivation level. Learning too far ahead lacks context and it’s unpredictable what path he might end up on... Old Mr. Xun pondered deeply. "Sir?" Mo Hua tentatively asked, "Is it too secretive, and perhaps inconvenient for you to teach?" Old Mr. Xun came back to his senses and gave a slight nod, "Generally, this isn't taught..." Typically, sect's formation masters would not encounter such needs. However, since Mo Hua wishes to learn... Old Mr. Xun thought for a moment and sighed. Then teach him... This child is different from others; his progress in formation is already very swift, with solid foundational knowledge, no need to limit him further. If he wants to learn, let him learn. If I don’t teach him, there’s a possibility when faced with challenges, he might refrain from asking me. He is clever; on his own, he’d undoubtedly discover some aspects. Yet whether those discoveries are beneficial or detrimental, sound or unsound, remains uncertain. If his learning becomes distorted, leading down incorrect paths, it will be too late for regrets. Teaching him, he can consult me whenever uncertain. This way, I can guide him, ensuring he doesn’t unconsciously veer off into uncharted and possibly perilous territories. Additionally, ensuring he doesn't pour his time and talent into pointless endeavors. However, he mustn't let others know... To avoid accusations of favoritism. Old Mr. Xun, after pondering for a moment, whispered, "I'll only teach you secretly, and you learn secretly... don't tell anyone." Secretly learning... Mo Hua nodded vigorously, "Don't worry, Sir." He was very familiar with this! Old Mr. Xun then gently explained: "Fixed magnetic patterns are a rather unique type of formation pattern, differing from the Five Elements, Eight Trigrams, or even other Two Elements Three Talents formations." "Other formations derive their logic from nature, echoing the natural laws." "But fixed magnetic patterns are products of formation studies, bearing more 'man-made' characteristics..." "This means if you don't understand the man-imposed meanings within fixed magnetic patterns, it's challenging to grasp purely from the formation perspective." Mo Hua was taken aback. No wonder... He had been using traditional formation logic to interpret fixed magnetic patterns, which felt quite incongruent. Old Mr. Xun continued, "You can think of fixed magnetic patterns as a specific kind of 'writing'." "Writings?" Mo Hua was startled. "Exactly," Old Mr. Xun nodded. "Fixed magnetic patterns are a specially formulated set of patterns derived from basic eight trigram patterns, designed to express the functions of magnetic formations." "This set encompasses various changes and holds a richly symbolic meaning." "That's why it's more like a special kind of 'writing'." Old Mr. Xun then took a pen and wrote several patterns on the blank part of a draft formation map, asking Mo Hua: "Do you know what these patterns mean?" Mo Hua examined them carefully and shook his head. He could tell these were some sort of magnetic patterns, but their specific meanings eluded him. Old Mr. Xun then added notes behind the patterns: Mo Hua. Fifteen years old. A disciple of the Void Sect. Origin: Li Province, Rank 2 Dakue Mountain, Tongxian City. Rank: Outer Sect Beginner Disciple of the Void Sect. Identity: Rank 2 Beginning Formation Master. … "This is…" Mo Hua was shaken, "The fixed magnetic patterns from the Void Talisman?" Old Mr. Xun nodded, "Yes, the lowest level of patterns in your Void Talisman includes these fixed magnetic patterns." "However, the Void Talisman is tightly sealed, preventing you from seeing these patterns." "Even if you could see them, you'd struggle to understand them." "Because you don't understand the meanings behind these fixed magnetic patterns; in simpler terms, you can't read these 'compiled' magnetic writing." Mo Hua's eyes lit up with sudden insight, then he asked: "So, Sir, how do I learn these fixed magnetic patterns?" Old Mr. Xun's expression turned wry, "You want to learn?" Mo Hua nodded earnestly. Old Mr. Xun was somewhat reluctant, "It's very complex and extremely time-consuming; you might find more benefit in practicing Eight Trigram formations..." Mo Hua's eyes remained clear and full of curiosity. "Then just teach me a bit..." Faced with Mo Hua's eager and inquisitive gaze, Old Mr. Xun felt he couldn't refuse. After some contemplation, he relented with a sigh. "I will only teach a little..." "Mm-hmm." Old Mr. Xun hesitated briefly, then asked, "If you wanted to learn the language of another race, what would you need?" Mo Hua pondered and carefully replied, "A dictionary?" Old Mr. Xun nodded, "Exactly, you'd need a dictionary." He continued, "The same principle applies to learning fixed magnetic patterns..." "You can see them as a 'writing' encoded in formation patterns. To learn them, you would naturally need a 'formation dictionary' to cross-reference. This way, you can know which magnetic pattern corresponds to what meaning." "If you wish to convey your intentions, you need to know which magnetic pattern to draw..." "Therefore later on..." At this point, Old Mr. Xun's heart gave a slight jolt, feeling as though he had accidentally broached on something potentially "dangerous"... He frowned, growing slightly bothered. Whenever he taught Mo Hua, this feeling often emerged. Sometimes it happened even when he hadn't taught anything significant... This has to end… Screw it, no more worries! Old Mr. Xun assumed a serious demeanor, feeling somewhat defiant. After all, using his celestial algorithms, albeit not expertly but adequately, he had made a mild extrapolation. These portents appeared unlikely to pose significant harm to the Void Sect. If there’s no adverse impact on the Void Sect, matters beyond its borders weren't his concern. The sect’s role is to teach and enlighten. He couldn't succumb to hesitation over vague portents and neglect such a promising talent, teaching him nothing? With this thought, Old Mr. Xun felt at ease and clear-headed. After pondering briefly, he extracted a thin booklet. "This contains some explanations of indeterminate magnetic patterns..." "You can skim it in your spare time, but remember not to waste too much time—the application is limited. Don’t lose yourself by wandering off important paths, spending excessive time on these minor details..." "Mm-hmm," Mo Hua enthusiastically replied, "Thank you, Sir!" He carefully accepted the booklet titled "Explanations of Indeterminate Magnetic Patterns," its contents sparse. After glancing over a few pages, he gently asked: "Sir, is there more?" This "dictionary" seemed a bit brief... Old Mr. Xun shook his head. "That's all there is! Learning even this much is considerable." "And if I learn everything in here..." Old Mr. Xun cut him off, "There's still no more." Mo Hua was doubtful, "You don’t have anything else here?" Glancing at Mo Hua, Old Mr. Xun sighingly remarked: "The realm of formations is vast and deeply intricate, with countless branches. Even the most gifted formation masters cannot master everything in a lifetime." "To be honest," Old Mr. Xun candidly acknowledged, "I have only dabbled in indeterminate magnetic patterns. My research isn't in-depth, so all I’ve got is this ‘Explanation.’ I have nothing more..." Mo Hua suspected Old Mr. Xun might be stretching the truth, but he had no proof. Moreover, Old Mr. Xun's esteemed reputation suggested no reason to deceive him... Mo Hua then asked, "Where could I find more?" "Dao Ting's records," Old Mr. Xun stated. Mo Hua paused, "Dao Ting?" Old Mr. Xun nodded, "For matters involving secret magnetic communication explanations, Dao Ting holds the most comprehensive collection. However, without being part of Dao Ting, access is unlikely..." Inside members... Concealing his interest, Mo Hua outwardly expressed regret: "Alright then..." "Take what you can manage; don’t overreach..." Old Mr. Xun again advised. Mo Hua earnestly agreed, and after finishing his inquiries, he stood, offered his respects, and took his leave. Watching Mo Hua depart, Old Mr. Xun didn’t give it more thought. … Upon returning, Mo Hua immersed himself in studying the thin "Explanations of Indeterminate Magnetic Patterns." His consciousness was now at a bottleneck, and his formation skills were stuck at sixteen patterns, unable to advance to more complex formations. His nightly practice on the Dao Tablet primarily focused on honing consciousness and solidifying his foundation. Thus, whatever formation he studied mattered little. Mo Hua devoted all his available time to understanding "Explanations of Indeterminate Magnetic Patterns." Grasping an "foreign language" within formations was vital. Moreover, it wasn’t as difficult as anticipated. It required abundant time for memorization, practice, and integration. For Mo Hua, with the advantage of his "Dao Tablet," this was manageable. During nearly half a month of non-stop practice, Mo Hua almost fully understood fixed magnetic patterns. Additionally, he was able to start conveying his formation intentions using "fixed magnetic patterns." The booklet from Old Mr. Xun, though slim, was expansive and highly practical. Finally grasping it, Mo Hua could "comprehend" the "expression" on the transmission talisman with those fixed magnetic patterns. As for more abundant, all-encompassing, sophisticated dictionaries of fixed magnetic patterns... In the future, he might find a way to "borrow" them from Dao Ting. For now, his goal was to attempt to "restore" the transmission talisman! Mo Hua felt invigorated. He decided that using the transmission talisman given by Uncle Gu would be the safest trial run. If it went awry, he could fix it himself. It would also allow him to verify the accuracy of the restored text. Mo Hua sent a few trivial messages like "Uncle Gu, are you there?" and, after receiving Gu Changhuai's responses, erased these replies. Subsequently, he set up another formation disk to simulate and attempt to "restore" the magnetic patterns. First, Mo Hua painstakingly recreated the fixed magnetic patterns identical to those originally inscribed in the transmission talisman. Thanks to the "Annotations of Fixed Magnetic Patterns" provided by Old Mr. Xun, the patterns before him no longer appeared as mere formations. Instead, they were as clear as day, almost like straightforward "instructions." It seemed as if a cryptic code had been deciphered, dispelling the fog to reveal the true meaning within: the sequences, directions, transmission methods, and logical presentation of the entire transmission talisman... Mo Hua could now see everything plainly and distinctly. After carefully replicating the foundational fixed magnetic patterns, Mo Hua went on to document the traces of "subtle lightning patterns" from the magnetic flow transmission which had occurred during the recent message exchange with his talisman. Mo Hua then proceeded to simulate the functioning of the magnetic formation on a separate array. As he anticipated: By using the established fixed magnetic patterns along with the recorded subtle lightning patterns, and channeling them through a sequence of magnetic inductions, he was indeed able to derive a special set of indeterminate magnetic patterns. These indeterminate magnetic patterns translated into visible text on the array disk via magnetic ink: "Get to the point, don't just ask 'are you there'!" "Didn't I tell you not to chat unless there's something important?" "What is it?" "Why aren't you responding?" … These were precisely the messages Uncle Gu had sent him through the transmission talisman, which he subsequently erased! Mo Hua was overjoyed. Realizing he hadn't yet responded to Uncle Gu's messages, Mo Hua quickly replied: "Any updates on the Fire Buddha lead?" He'd been hunkered down in the sect, absorbed in learning formations for nearly half a month, unaware of any progress on the Fire Buddha's whereabouts. There was a brief silence, indicating perhaps some hesitation, before a reply came: "Come to the Gu family the day after tomorrow during the break, and I'll tell you more..." Mo Hua paused. What unexpected development could have occurred? Or was there a taboo reason preventing the discussion from being written in a message? Unable to fathom it, Mo Hua simply replied: "Alright." Gu Changhuai sent no further messages. Mo Hua shrugged it off, deciding to inquire more in-person during his visit to the Gu family. The whereabouts of the Fire Buddha remained a conundrum—how they could vanish so thoroughly after committing such a heinous crime, slaughtering an entire family and burning their bodies… Mo Hua's instincts tinged with unease. With another day to go until the next break, Mo Hua couldn't shake his impatience and restlessness. Suddenly, he recalled another matter. Bald Eagle's transmission talisman. Given that he could now restore magnetic patterns, could he perhaps unveil the contents of Bald Eagle's talisman as well? What could be concealed within Bald Eagle's transmission talisman? While it might not be related to the Fire Buddha, Mo Hua’s curiosity was piqued. With time to spare before visiting Uncle Gu at the Gu family, Mo Hua decided to "restore" Bald Eagle's transmission talisman... Eager to proceed, Mo Hua followed the same process: disassembling Bald Eagle's transmission talisman, recreating its underlying magnetic patterns, and recording the remnants of subtle lightning patterns. Thereafter, he began reconstructing the magnetic logic on a separate array disk... After investing most of the day, text started to materialize atop the array’s magnetic ink: ... "June 10, Yuncang City, sows, six..." "Twelfth, outskirts of Qingyun City, ducks, three..." "July, Brocade City, chicks, eight..." "Twentieth, Hundred Flowers, obtained one celestial crane, gifted to the young master..." "October, Liushan City, cattle and horses, twenty total..." ... Mo Hua stared, utterly confounded. "What on earth..." Was Bald Eagle involved in the trade of spiritual livestock? Scrutinizing the text further, a chilling suspicion crept into Mo Hua's mind. "Could these spiritual creatures be..." Mo Hua's expression darkened with intense seriousness. (Chapter End)