Chương 120: Spirit Tea Gathering!

Lingmu Peak, the main hall of the cave.

The celebratory spirit fruits and fine wine still lingered, and the joy of successfully forming the Golden Core still lingered among the three.

Zhou Ding looked at Xin Ruyin beside him, whose aura had stabilized and whose brows now exuded a more otherworldly charm, and a gentle smile appeared on his face.

With a thought, something appeared in his palm.

It was a peculiar long shuttle, only a foot long, with a deep silver-gray color, shaped like a shuttle, pointed at both ends, and slightly bulging in the middle.

The long shuttle has extremely smooth lines, as if it was born to break through resistance. There are not many gorgeous patterns on the surface, only countless tiny natural silver runes that are almost imperceptible, like starlight, appearing and disappearing on its surface, slowly flowing.

A sharp, swift, and seemingly penetrating aura emanated from the silver shuttle, making the surrounding air appear "thinner" and "sharper."

Furthermore, there is a faint yet incredibly clear ancient Taoist aura, revealing its extraordinary origin.

"Ruyin, see if this is suitable for you?" Zhou Ding handed the silver-gray shuttle to Xin Ruyin.

Xin Ruyin's beautiful eyes fell on the long shuttle. At first, she was just curious, but when she felt the sharp and swift aura and ancient Daoist charm, a trace of surprise and disbelief flashed in her eyes.

She carefully took it, examining it with her divine sense, feeling the immense energy and profound restrictions contained within, far surpassing any magical treasure. Her red lips parted slightly, and she exclaimed, "This... this aura, this texture... could it be... an ancient treasure?!"

As a formation master, she has a more acute perception of the spiritual energy of various treasures and materials.

Although I have never actually possessed an ancient treasure, the characteristics of ancient treasures are described in the "Tian Yuan Array Manual" and some other ancient books.

The long shuttle before us, in terms of its energy level, the complexity of its restrictions, and the unique Daoist charm that has been accumulated over the years, is far beyond the reach of ordinary magic treasures. It is very likely to be a legendary ancient treasure!

"Indeed, this shuttle is called the 'Star Chaser Shuttle,' and it is a high-quality offensive ancient artifact."

Zhou Ding nodded in confirmation and smiled, "Not only is it incomparably sharp, capable of breaking through most defenses of the same level, but it can also convert mana into extreme speed, making it as swift as a shooting star when attacking, leaving enemies defenseless. It can also serve as a treasure for long-distance flight, with a speed far exceeding that of ordinary flying magic treasures.

I see that you haven't yet found a suitable offensive treasure after forming your core, and this shuttle, combining offense and defense, is perfect for you."

Upon hearing this, Xin Ruyin was even more shocked.

Antique treasure!

That is a priceless treasure that countless Core Formation cultivators dream of!

Its power far surpasses that of ordinary magical treasures, and it often possesses all sorts of incredible supernatural abilities.

Zhou Ding actually wants to give her such a precious antique?

"Young Master Zhou, this is far too precious!"

Xin Ruyin quickly pushed the Star Chasing Shuttle back, her delicate brows furrowing slightly, her tone filled with urgency and unease: "Ancient treasures are incredibly precious, the very foundation of life and protection. Now that your cultivation is deepening, you need such a powerful weapon for self-defense even more when you're out and about. You should keep the Star Chasing Shuttle, Zhou Lang. I have the talismans you gave me before, and I'm skilled in formations, so that's enough for me."

She knew Zhou Ding was good to her, but Gu Bao was no ordinary person, and she didn't want Zhou Ding to lose his support because of it.

"Silly girl, why are you still distinguishing between us?"

Zhou Ding grasped her hand that was pushing him away, and steadily placed the Star Chasing Shuttle in her palm. His tone left no room for doubt: "I said I'd give it to you, so it's yours. I do have other treasures, whether for offense or defense, I have something to rely on, so you don't need to worry. You are now a Core Formation cultivator, with profound knowledge of array formations. If you have this treasure by your side, you will be able to defend as well as you defend, which will put my mind at ease.

In the future, when we venture out together, your increased strength will be the greatest help to me."

His gaze was sincere, filled with complete trust and expectation.

When Xin Ruyin met his gaze, her heart skipped a beat, and she found it difficult to utter the words of refusal.

She could feel Zhou Ding's unreserved affection; it wasn't charity, but a genuine wish for her to become stronger and stand shoulder to shoulder with him.

"Zhou Lang..."

Xin Ruyin felt a slight tingling in her nose, and gripped the cold Star Chaser tightly in her hand. Her sharp aura seemed to soften.

She no longer refused and nodded emphatically: "Alright, I'll accept it. I will certainly live up to this treasure and Zhou Lang's high expectations."

Xiao Mei, standing to the side, was already staring wide-eyed, her mouth agape, her face filled with undisguised envy and longing. She murmured, "Gu Bao... it's Gu Bao! Miss, the young master is so good to you!"

Zhou Ding turned to look at her, and seeing her longing expression, he couldn't help but chuckle. He reached out and ruffled her hair, saying, "Little girl, are you envious? Cultivate diligently, and when you successfully form your core, your son-in-law will have a surprise for you too, no less than your young lady's."

"Really?!"

Xiao Mei's eyes instantly lit up like stars, and she jumped up excitedly: "Young Master, you keep your word! I... I will definitely work hard! To reach the Core Formation stage as soon as possible!"

She seemed to be injected with boundless energy, and couldn't wait to go into seclusion and cultivate herself.

Xin Ruyin smiled as she looked at Xiao Mei's excited expression, feeling a warm glow in her heart.

This small cave dwelling, with her supportive Daoist partner and her lively and adorable younger sister, is her most solid harbor and source of motivation on her path of cultivation.

……

Half a month later, Zhou Ding and Xin Ruyin left Lingmu Peak together, riding on their escape light and heading towards Tianzhu Peak.

This trip was at the invitation of Master Mulong, and it was also Xin Ruyin's first formal appearance in front of the high-ranking officials of Kuixing Island after she achieved the Core Formation.

Tianzhu Peak, where the Hidden Dragon dwells.

It was still that elegant reception room, with the fragrance of sandalwood wafting through the air.

Master Mulong was already waiting in the hall. When he saw Zhou Ding and Xin Ruyin enter side by side, he immediately stood up and put on a warm smile.

"Fellow Daoist Zhou, Madam Zhou, it is an honor to have you here. We are so sorry for not greeting you sooner. Please have a seat!"

Master Mulong's gaze swept quickly over Xin Ruyin, and his heart tightened once more.

In just half a month, this woman's aura had become completely stable, and the calm and composed demeanor of a Core Formation cultivator and the unique temperament she exuded were now unmistakably evident.

What alarmed him even more was that there seemed to be an extremely sharp and swift aura flowing around this woman. Although it was restrained, it still made this mid-stage Core Formation cultivator feel a faint threat.

"It seems that Zhou Ding has truly spared no effort in cultivating his Daoist partner..." Master Mulong's thoughts raced, but his smile grew even brighter.

"You're too kind, Island Master Mulong. We've troubled you."

Zhou Ding returned the greeting with a cupped hand and sat down with Xin Ruyin.

Xin Ruyin also bowed slightly, her demeanor dignified, her voice clear and melodious: "Greetings, Senior Mulong."

"Madam Zhou, there's no need for such formalities. We can address each other as equals now."

Master Mulong waved his hand and laughed, his gaze lingering on Xin Ruyin for a moment before he couldn't help but praise, "Madam Xin's cultivation has not only progressed rapidly, but her temperament is also extraordinary, like a secluded orchid in a valley, her Daoist charm naturally formed. Fellow Daoist Zhou, it's truly enviable to have such a wonderful partner! Hahaha!"

His praise seemed somewhat genuine.

Xin Ruyin was already quite beautiful, but after reaching the Core Formation stage, her temperament became even more ethereal. Combined with the unique wisdom and tranquility brought by her array cultivation, she was truly impressive.

"You flatter me, Island Lord. I am unworthy of such praise," Xin Ruyin said calmly and modestly.

She was no longer the frail woman confined to her small space. Facing a powerful figure like Master Mulong, she could handle the situation with composure and humility.

The three exchanged pleasantries for a while and then sipped some spiritual tea.

Master Mulong put down his teacup, his smile fading slightly and replaced by a more serious expression. He said, "Fellow Daoist Zhou, Madam Zhou, besides congratulating Madam Zhou on her great success in achieving the Golden Core stage, I have another matter I would like to discuss with you."

"Please speak, Island Master." Zhou Ding put down his teacup and pretended to listen.

"That's right."

Master Mulong stroked his beard and said slowly, "The cultivators of Kuixing Island come and go frequently, but the fellow cultivators on the island usually cultivate on their own and rarely have the opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from each other, or share resources on a large scale."

If this continues, it will cause inconvenience to the overall improvement of the island's strength and to the fellow cultivators' search for the resources they need.

Therefore, I intend to take the lead in organizing a "Spiritual Tea Gathering" and invite all the renowned and accomplished fellow practitioners on Kui Xing Island to attend.

Firstly, fellow Daoists can take this opportunity to enjoy tea and discuss Daoist principles, exchanging cultivation insights. Secondly, they can also share what they need, exchanging information on elixirs, materials, cultivation methods, and even treasures. I wonder what Fellow Daoist Zhou and Madam Xin think?

He paused, looked at Zhou Ding, and added, "I hope that Fellow Daoist Zhou, Madam Xin, and your esteemed elder brother, Vice Island Master Zhou Jin, will all grace us with their presence. With the three of you here, the significance of this Spirit Tea Gathering will naturally be greatly enhanced. It will also allow the cultivators of Kui Xing Island to witness the brilliance of the Spirit Wood Peak lineage."

Upon hearing this, Zhou Ding's heart stirred slightly.

Spiritual Tea Ceremony?

It sounds more like a large-scale trading and exchange meeting limited to high-ranking monks on Kui Xing Island.

This is a good opportunity.

He needs some unconventional materials for his cultivation, which are difficult to obtain through the Six Linked Palace channels in a short time. Perhaps he can gain some from such gatherings.

Moreover, taking this opportunity to learn about the true strengths and weaknesses of other cultivators on Kui Xing Island, as well as the distribution of resources on the island, is not necessarily a bad thing.

"The island lord's suggestion is excellent."

After a moment's thought, Zhou Ding nodded in agreement: "While it is essential for cultivators to cultivate in seclusion, timely exchanges and sharing of resources can save a lot of trouble and are also beneficial to cultivation. I will certainly bring my wife and brother to the meeting on time."

Xin Ruyin nodded slightly in agreement.

Now that she has reached the Core Formation stage, she needs to start gathering resources for her future cultivation, especially rare materials for refining higher-level array plates and flags. This gathering of high-level cultivators is a good opportunity to obtain information.

Seeing Zhou Ding agree so readily, a hint of smugness flashed in True Man Mulong's eyes, and his smile widened: "Good! With the support of the three Fellow Daoists Zhou, this matter will surely succeed! Then let it be held a month from now at the 'Cloud-Viewing Platform' atop Heavenly Pillar Peak. At that time, I will send invitations to all named cultivators above the Foundation Establishment stage on the island."

"One month from now, at Guanyuntai, I've made a note of it," Zhou Ding said, cupping his hands in greeting.

……

Time flies, and the month-long period is almost over.

On this day, the "Cloud Viewing Platform" area at the top of Tianzhu Peak, which used to be shrouded in clouds and mist, has been completely cleared and decorated.

On this day, the "Cloud Viewing Platform" area at the top of Tianzhu Peak, which used to be shrouded in clouds and mist, has been completely cleared and decorated.

On the flat jade plaza, which spans a hundred feet in circumference, dozens of exquisite sandalwood tables are placed in specific locations, and spiritual tea and fruits full of spiritual energy have already been prepared on the tables.

A wisp of mist, guided by an array, swirled around the edge of the plaza, adding to its ethereal atmosphere. In the center of the plaza stood a small, elegant white marble platform, clearly intended for displaying items or for presiding over ceremonies.

At this moment, the Guanyuntai platform was already bustling with people, and the atmosphere was lively.

The invited cultivators were at least at the early Foundation Establishment stage, with most at the mid-to-late Foundation Establishment stage, and there were also more than ten pseudo-Core Formation cultivators mixed in.

They either gathered in twos and threes, talking quietly, or sipped tea alone, but their eyes kept glancing toward the entrance, their faces filled with anticipation and curiosity.

Master Mulong has not yet appeared, but everyone knows that today's main event, besides the island lord, is the newly risen Lingmu Peak lineage, which has three members who have reached the Core Formation stage.

"I heard that the Lord of Wood Dragon Island has really gone all out this time, even bringing out his treasured 'Mist Peak Cloud Tip'..."

"Tsk tsk, it's mainly to welcome the newly promoted Madam Xin from Lingmu Peak, right? Three members of one family have reached the Core Formation stage, the Island Lord has to give them face."

"Who can argue with that? I just wonder if Elder Zhou, and that mysterious Deputy Island Master Zhou, will come today..."

"They'll definitely come! The invitation came personally from Island Master Mulong, how could they not give us face?"

……

Just as everyone was whispering among themselves, the array light screen at the entrance of the Cloud Viewing Platform rippled slightly.

Three figures stepped in almost simultaneously.

The leader, dressed in a green robe, had a calm face and a deep, imposing presence; it was Zhou Ding.

Half a step behind him stood a woman in a light blue dress, with a beautiful face and a cool yet mysterious temperament. She was Xin Ruyin, who had just reached the Core Formation stage.

A few steps behind the two was a tall, stern-faced man draped in a black robe, exuding a chilling aura that kept strangers at bay—Zhou Jin.

The moment the three appeared, the once noisy Cloud-Viewing Platform fell silent!

All the cultivators' eyes turned to him!

The Foundation Establishment cultivators' eyes were filled with awe, curiosity, envy, and even a hint of fear.

The pseudo-core cultivators had mixed feelings, with some scrutinizing and assessing Xin Ruyin, and others wary of Zhou Jin's undisguised ferocity.

"It's Elder Zhou from Lingmu Peak! And Madam Xin too!"

"Is that Vice Island Master Zhou? Such a heavy aura of malevolence..."

"Three Core Formation cultivators have arrived together... What an imposing presence..."

After a brief silence, several late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators near the entrance were the first to react, quickly bowing respectfully:

"This junior pays respects to Elder Zhou, Madam Zhou, and Deputy Island Master Zhou!"

With one person taking the lead, the other cultivators also seemed to awaken from a dream, bowing respectfully in unison, their voices rising and falling:

"Greetings, Elder Zhou! Madam Zhou! Deputy Island Master Zhou!"

"Welcome, three esteemed masters!"

The sound waves converged and echoed across the misty mountaintop.

Zhou Ding's expression remained unchanged; he simply nodded slightly.

Xin Ruyin also maintained a polite, slight smile.

Zhou Jin remained expressionless, seemingly oblivious to the greetings around him. Only his icy gaze occasionally swept over them, sending chills down the spines of the cultivators who met his eyes.

The Lingmu Peak lineage, in the most direct way, announced their existence and importance to all cultivators on Kuixing Island.