飘零影音

Chapter 149 - Arc 11: The Sect\'s Grand Competition | Chapter 149: Luo Yao

Translator: Lynn

As Luo Yao’s gaze met Xu Ziqing’s, a mutual exchange of looks took place.

On this particular day, Luo Yao donned a regal blue robe, a jade crown perched upon his head, and a jade belt cinched at his waist. He exuded an air of calmness, yet there lingered a subtle trace of arrogance about him. His attire, demeanor, and overall presence resembled that of a young scion from a prominent, worldly family. Interestingly, a hint of restraint flickered in his eyes, adding a layer of complexity to his character.

It was worth noting that Luo Yao embodied a rare blend of composure and nobility, a demeanor more imposing than haughty. Even Su Xin, the young leader of the Loose Cultivator Alliance, did not possess the same curious combination of poise and noblesse that Luo Yao did.

Upon gazing upon Luo Yao’s visage, Xu Ziqing found himself increasingly drawn to him.

However, Luo Yao maintained his calm composure and offered a slight bow to both individuals. “I am Disciple Luo Yao, paying my respects to the master of Xiaolu Peak,” he addressed Yun Lie before turning his gaze to Xu Ziqing. “I also extend my greetings to fellow Daoist Xu.”

Xu Ziqing’s eyes subtly shifted.

The word “disciple” caught his attention, and he couldn’t help but be somewhat surprised.

The term “disciple residence” referred to a group of pavilions situated in the mountains near Shifang Pavilion, serving as the abodes for inner disciples. Importantly, those who dwelled in the disciple’s residence were individuals who had not yet formally taken a master.

Luo Yao’s self-identification as a disciple residing in the middle implied that he was an ordinary inner disciple, without a master, and devoid of fellow disciples. He stood alone in his cultivation path.

However, this revelation also suggested that Luo Yao likely lacked the backing of a powerful sect figure, and his motives for visiting Xiaolu Peak were unlikely to be malicious. This realization eased the tension on the peak considerably.

Yun Lie, uninterested in negotiating with outsiders, maintained his silence, simply nodding before closing his eyes.

Observing his brother’s reserved response, Xu Ziqing offered a warm smile and addressed Luo Yao. “You are most welcome, fellow Daoist. Please, have a seat.” Given Luo Yao’s foundation stage cultivation, addressing each other as “Fellow Daoist” was entirely appropriate.

Upon hearing Xu Ziqing’s invitation, Luo Yao promptly settled onto the ground.

After all, Yun Lie’s disposition and cultivation were well-established, and Luo Yao paid little heed to his demeanor. He hadn’t come to Xiaolu Peak for Yun Lie, but rather for the individual currently addressing him.

Observing Luo Yao’s composed demeanor, Xu Ziqing offered a friendly smile and inquired, “Dear Daoist Luo, what brings you here?”

However, Luo Yao did not immediately respond to the question, as his attention had been captivated by something else.

“Is this… the ‘Fuwen Tongfa’?” Luo Yao’s voice quivered slightly as his gaze remained fixed on the ancient black leather book before Xu Ziqing. His aura momentarily surged with excitement. “Fellow Daoist Xu, that’s precisely why I’ve come!”

At this moment, all euphemisms and pretenses vanished from Luo Yao’s words and demeanor. His heart and eyes were singularly fixated on one thing, and his speech became remarkably straightforward.

Observing this transformation, Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but be taken aback. Why had Luo Yao suddenly exhibited such a dramatic shift in behavior?

Nonetheless, he couldn’t help but chuckle softly. It appeared that, while appearing refined, Luo Yao was singularly passionate about this book. His apparent loss of composure didn’t reflect an excessive obsession with the Dao of Talisman.

Xu Ziqing held respect for individuals who wholeheartedly dedicated themselves to a single pursuit. He maintained his smile as he responded, “If you have any insights, Daoist Luo, please don’t hesitate to share.”

Luo Yao regained his composure, and though his ears had reddened slightly, his countenance appeared unaffected. “I apologize for my earlier outburst,” he began.

Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but notice the change in the color of Luo Yao’s ears, finding it rather amusing. Still, he wore a friendly expression as Luo Yao continued.

“This ‘Fuwen Tongfa’ has been my long-cherished desire, and I spent several days accumulating enough credit points to obtain it. However, when I was about to make the exchange, I heard that it had already been claimed by someone else. I grew rather impatient. After some inquiries, I discovered that it had fallen into your hands, Fellow Daoist Xu. I then conducted further inquiries to trace your whereabouts.”

Xu Ziqing listened with a smile, allowing Luo Yao to elaborate.

Luo Yao’s words tumbled out rapidly as if he knew his request was unreasonable, but the hope in his heart compelled him to recount the entire story. “Now, I have a bold request, Fellow Daoist Xu. I implore you to relinquish this book, allowing me to become its rightful owner,” he continued, his tone conveying his desperation. “In return, I owe you a life debt, and should you ever need my assistance in the future, I will go to the ends of the earth to fulfill your request.”

His words grew increasingly fervent as he spoke, his fingers involuntarily clenching. “Naturally, I won’t allow you to suffer any disadvantage, and if you have any needs, give me a few days, no matter how arduous the task, I will spare no effort to fulfill it!” He emphasized this offer as though it were a significant commitment.

There exists a distinction between owed favors and owed kindness. The former implies a form of love or affection, while the latter denotes a sense of entrusting one’s life to another. In this case, it was not a mere exchange of kindness but an offer of kindness accompanied by an exchange of equal or greater weight. It may have appeared excessive to offer so much in exchange for a book of general knowledge, but the sincerity behind it was undeniable.

After Luo Yao had finished speaking, he raised his head to gaze at Xu Ziqing intently, eager not to miss any change in expression, and anxiously awaiting his response.

Upon hearing Luo Yao’s plea, Xu Ziqing paused, pondering the matter carefully. He discerned that this individual held an intense passion for the Dao of Talismans.

For many, the Dao of Talismans was viewed as a secondary pursuit, often relegated to the role of a supplementary skill. Monks with exceptional aptitude focused primarily on martial arts cultivation, tending to overlook the intricate intricacies of talismans, elixirs, and magical tools. Those who achieved proficiency in these areas were typically individuals with modest innate talent who struggled to advance on the conventional path, thus opting for alternative avenues on their journey to enlightenment.

While Xu Ziqing was uncertain about Luo Yao’s aptitude, the fact that he, as an unaffiliated inner disciple, was willing to offer a substantial sum for this general knowledge indicated a unique disposition. This disposition could be attributed either to his popularity among the disciples or his substantial accumulation of resources over the years, coupled with remarkable talent in the field of talismans.

Regardless of the reasons behind his actions, Luo Yao’s fervent devotion to the Dao of Talismans was undeniable. Xu Ziqing couldn’t bear to see him miss out on a cherished book of knowledge.

However, the general knowledge held significant value for Xu Ziqing as well, making it challenging for him to simply relinquish it to Luo Yao.

After a moment of reflection, Xu Ziqing gently shook his head and replied, “I regret to inform you, Fellow Daoist Luo, that the understanding of this knowledge is of paramount importance to me, and I cannot part with it.”

Luo Yao’s countenance shifted instantly, and his eyes took on a hint of reverence.

He had anticipated that exchanging so many merit points for a master of this caliber wouldn’t be straightforward. However, his efforts had been sincere, and the disappointment and discouragement he now felt were overwhelming.

Yet, resorting to forceful theft was out of the question. Not only did it violate the sect’s strict rules and regulations, but Luo Yao’s character wouldn’t permit such a base act. Moreover, the other party was a direct disciple—an apprentice to a Golden Core stage cultivator—and even the master of Xiaolu Peak, his senior brother, was a formidable figure beyond the reach of ordinary Golden Core disciples.

Gradually, the look of reverence in Luo Yao’s eyes gave way to disappointment, then despair. Without access to this general knowledge, his progress in talisman research would be severely hindered.

However, Xu Ziqing’s voice offered a glimmer of hope. He said, “Nonetheless, I have a proposal that may satisfy both of us. I wonder, Fellow Daoist Luo, if you would be interested?”

Luo Yao’s eyes lit up. “What is this proposal? Please, tell me!”

Xu Ziqing smiled gently. “Although I cannot lend you the general knowledge, if you’re willing to study it together with me, there won’t be any obstacles.”

Anxiously, Luo Yao asked, “You mean, you’d like to teach me?”

Xu Ziqing shook his head. “Not teach you, but learn alongside you.”

Luo Yao grasped the implication. “So, you’re suggesting…”

Xu Ziqing explained with a smile, “When you wish to delve into the knowledge and mastery of this discipline, simply come to me. I am also in the early stages of exploring the realm of talismans and would appreciate your insights. If a fellow Daoist like you provides guidance, I would welcome it.”

This arrangement seemed to offer a compromise. While Luo Yao couldn’t possess the general knowledge, having access to it for reference was still valuable. As for Xu Ziqing’s conditions, they appeared quite reasonable.

Luo Yao, not inherently selfish, felt that repaying the favor with advice was entirely fair. However, his primary concern was that once he became engrossed in studying talisman patterns, he might lose track of time, making it challenging to adhere to a set schedule for daily interactions with Xu Ziqing. If Xu Ziqing were required to bring the book to his residence, Luo Yao feared it might seem unreasonable.

Luo Yao candidly shared his concerns with Xu Ziqing, prompting Xu Ziqing to glance at Yun Lie and say, “Shixiong…”

In his opinion, it would be more practical for Luo Yao to stay on Xiaolu Peak. Otherwise, the daily back-and-forth journey would become quite taxing, especially given the additional sword practice he had in mind. However, he was well aware of his senior brother’s aloof demeanor and aversion to outsiders. He didn’t want to impose on Yun Lie’s solitude, disrupting his tranquility.

Yun Lie, noticing Xu Ziqing’s unspoken concerns, responded with a casual remark, “You can accommodate him, but he should stay on the mountainside.”

This unexpected consideration from Yun Lie touched Xu Ziqing, and he expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Yun Shixiong.”

Yun Lie then closed his eyes once more, resuming his meditation on honing his sword intent.

However, Xu Ziqing turned to Luo Yao and inquired, “What do you think, Fellow Daoist Luo?”

Luo Yao was more than content with the arrangement and promptly nodded, saying, “Then I will defer to your kindness, Daoist Xu.”

This consensus brought a sense of harmony to the atmosphere on Xiaolu Peak, where two distinct individuals with their unique pursuits were now united by a shared passion for the mysteries of the Dao.

Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.

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