The Return of Stars to the Jianghu

Chapter 204 A Panoramic View of the Sect from the Summit of the Xuantian Sect

The Xuantian Sect, a renowned immortal cultivation sect on the Xuantian Continent, has its headquarters located atop the Cloud Mist Mountain Range, shrouded in mist.

This magnificent sect complex is nestled atop a towering mountain peak, surrounded by swirling clouds and mist, resembling a fairyland far removed from the hustle and bustle of the world, designed specifically for disciples seeking the ultimate path of cultivation. The complex is laid out in a harmonious and imposing manner, with every brick and tile imbued with the vicissitudes of time and the unwavering spirit of cultivators.

The sect's main gate is crafted from a thousand-year-old tree, carved with auspicious dragon and phoenix patterns, symbolizing the sect's prosperity. Stepping through the gate, one is greeted by a wide avenue paved with bluestone, flanked by shady trees and filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers.

The sect has a rigorous internal structure. It boasts spacious training grounds for disciples to hone their martial arts, equipped with alchemy furnaces, weapon-forging platforms, and other cultivation facilities for practicing immortality techniques. There are also secluded cultivation rooms for elders to cultivate in seclusion. These rooms are simply and solemnly furnished, with cultivation diagrams hanging on the walls and cultivation manuals displayed on the tables. The library houses a vast collection of books, recording countless cultivation secrets and insights from predecessors, making it a treasure trove for disciples to acquire knowledge and comprehend the Great Dao.

Furthermore, a towering pagoda, the Xuantian Pagoda, stands within the sect. It is not only a significant symbol of the sect but also a sacred place for disciples to cultivate their minds and enhance their cultivation. Each level of the Xuantian Pagoda is filled with rich spiritual energy, seemingly capable of cleansing the soul and allowing disciples to more easily enter a state of self-forgetfulness during cultivation. Every nightfall, the top of the Xuantian Pagoda emits a soft light, illuminating the entire sect, like a dazzling pearl set amidst the mountains.

The attire of the Xuantian Sect disciples is also distinctive. Male disciples wear long blue robes with silver belts and cloud-patterned cloth shoes, exuding a heroic and spirited air; female disciples wear flowing pink dresses, their skirts billowing like celestial maidens descending to earth. Their robes are embroidered with the Xuantian Sect emblem, signifying their status and glory. On important festivals or celebrations, the disciples change into even more magnificent attire, adorning themselves with precious magical artifacts and ornaments, showcasing the Xuantian Sect's prestige and splendor.

Standing atop the sect's summit, overlooking the surrounding mountains, one sees a sea of ​​clouds churning, a scene both dreamlike and ethereal. The mountain where the sect is located soars into the clouds, seemingly merging with the sky, inspiring awe. This place is not only a sacred ground for cultivators, but also the dream destination for countless cultivators. Every morning, as the first rays of sunlight fall upon the mountaintop, the entire sect seems to be enveloped in golden light, resembling a fairyland.

On the third day after returning to the Xuantian Sect, Su An led Luo Yifei, Nan Tian, ​​Shen Lixi, and Qi Yuan to the observation deck atop the sect. Standing high above, they overlooked the magnificent scenery of the entire sect, where clouds swirled and mountains rose in verdant layers, resembling a fairyland. However, despite the beautiful scenery, the chill was unbearable. Luo Yifei couldn't help but shiver.

“It’s too cold in here, let’s go downstairs and talk,” Luo Yifei said to Nan Tian, ​​Shen Lixi, Su An, and Qi Yuan. The four nodded in agreement and followed Luo Yifei slowly down the bluestone path. Along the way, they stopped frequently to admire the rare and exotic flowers and herbs within the sect, feeling the unique spiritual energy and tranquil peace of this place.

Arriving at a secluded courtyard, the four sat around a stone table. Several cups of steaming spiritual tea sat on the table, their aroma invigorating the senses. Su An picked up a cup, gently blew on it, and slowly sipped, a satisfied expression on his face. He set down the cup and said softly, "This courtyard was my first residence when I entered the sect. Due to years of training outside, I haven't actually lived here for long." His words carried a hint of nostalgia, as if recalling bygone years.

"Xuantian Sect is indeed a wonderful place for cultivating immortality, with abundant spiritual energy and a tranquil environment. According to Elder Wanshun, outstanding disciples can obtain even better cultivation resources," Nantian remarked. His words were filled with reverence for Xuantian Sect, as if he harbored boundless longing for this sect.

Su An smiled slightly and said, "Every disciple of the Xuan Tian Sect must undergo rigorous selection and assessment before they can officially join. After joining, they must receive systematic cultivation and instruction to continuously improve their cultivation and realm. According to the sect rules, they must accept the tasks issued by the sect. In order to gain points, many people will take the initiative to accept more tasks. Of course, there are also some special cases where tasks are assigned. In short, joining the sect means that you must risk your life for the sect."

"So, have you made up your minds? Will you join the Xuan Tian Sect and go with them to Wuji Island to investigate, or will you return to the Floating Life Continent?" Nan Tian asked. His voice carried a hint of anticipation, as if he were waiting for their answer.

“I choose to return to the Floating Life Continent and then back to Earth. I think Luo Yifei is absolutely right. We should go back to Earth as soon as possible. This isn’t our battle, and we don’t need to get involved.” Shen Lixi answered first, her tone firm, clearly having made up her mind.

“I also choose to return to the Floating Life Continent. Things may be more complicated than I expected. If Lin Hai, Shi Qingfeng, and Li Chao are no longer on the Floating Life Continent, I'm worried about what might happen there. It's better to go back sooner rather than later,” Qi Yuan replied, his voice tinged with worry, as if he were concerned about something.

“I’ve been thinking lately that perhaps it’s time to go and see Wuji Island,” Luo Yifei said slowly. “If the Xuantian Sect has already mastered enough teleportation altars, then we won’t have to worry about not being able to return. However, my current strength is still very weak. If none of you are planning to go, then there’s no need for me to join in the fun alone.” He paused, then turned his gaze to Nantian. “Nantian, what about you? What do you think?”

Nan Tian pondered for a moment, then answered with a firm gaze: "I have decided to follow the Xuan Tian Sect to Wuji Island to investigate. Since we have already been drawn into this conflict, running away is not the solution. Moreover, I am also very eager to know what secrets are hidden behind all of this. As for returning to Earth, I believe there will always be an opportunity, but now is clearly not the time."

Upon hearing this, Luo Yifei nodded in understanding: "Su An, what are your thoughts?"

Su An sighed softly, gazing into the distance as if weighing something: "I... I plan to return to the Floating Life Continent with you. Although the Xuan Tian Sect is a good place for cultivation, my mind is in turmoil right now. The conflicts on Wuji Island, the safety of Earth, and our own destiny... all of this makes it difficult for me to make a decision. Perhaps, it's not too late to return to the Floating Life Continent first, clear my mind, and then make a decision."

"In that case, I'll head to the Floating Life Continent first," Luo Yifei said slowly.

The four of them shared their opinions, and the atmosphere became somewhat heavy for a moment. Just then, a gentle breeze blew by, bringing with it the fragrance of flowers, as if even nature was listening to their conversation and trying to guide them.

Seeing this, Nan Tian broke the silence: "No matter what choice we make, the most important thing is to stay true to our original aspirations and stick to our beliefs. You all have attachments on Earth, so going back is the best choice for you. I'm different. I'm all alone, with no attachments. I might be able to achieve something here."

"Did you forget about someone else? We didn't invite Lin Feifan. Ask him what he thinks?" Qi Yuan changed the subject.

"Oh right, how could I forget about Lin Feifan?" Luo Yifei slapped his forehead, then took out a communication jade slip and sent a message to Lin Feifan.

A moment later, Lin Feifan appeared in their sight. He walked over quickly, a hint of apology on his face: "Sorry, I was cultivating just now and couldn't respond in time."

"It's alright, Lin Feifan, why don't you share your thoughts?" Nan Tian nodded to Lin Feifan.

Lin Feifan pondered for a moment and said, "I plan to go to Wuji Island with Nantian to explore. Although my strength is not that great, more people mean more strength. Moreover, I also want to see the scenery of Wuji Island, and perhaps I can find an opportunity to improve myself there."

"Wait, Feifan, I need to go to the Floating Life Continent." The Wind and Fire Wheels on Luo Yifei's body emitted light, and Ye Fan's voice came from within.