Formation of Life: Blue Phoenix, #5

By Tinalynge

 

Hui Yue is continuing his journey to become a God when an enemy from the past appears in front of him. What is it that makes this old enemy appear in front of Hui Yue and why is it so urgent? Being tempted by this Saint, Hui Yue moves forward to find many secrets of the world he had never imagined before. He experiences one hardship after another with his friends by his side and they all fight for survival in the red realm that has been created to test their abilities. But while they are being tested, something sinister brews in the shadows. What is the real purpose of this red realm and just what danger has Hui Yue unleashed?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tinalynge
• Release date: Mar 27, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215031216

Book preview

Chapter 1 - The Kingdom Changes

The assassination of the third prince was the main subject on everyone’s mind. The faction behind the third prince was so upset that they swore to give ten thousand spirit coins if the assassin was exposed or caught.

Although there had been a fight for the throne, everyone knew that the one most likely to win was the third prince. He had the most allies and supporters, and he was both shrewd and calculating. Had it not been for him underestimating Hui Yue, or overestimating his own strength then he would have still been alive, and Hui Yue would most likely be the one dead. The third prince had many secrets up his sleeve and when he died he had still not unleashed his full strength. The overwhelming lightning had taken him by surprise.

Hui Yue had been summoned to the palace because he had visited the day of the murder, but they quickly ruled him out due to him having been driven home in the princess' carriage. There were so many people who saw this that he was beyond doubt.

Now that the third prince was gone, the power struggles had suddenly changed. The first and second prince were suddenly energetic, and they did their best to sway the allies of the third prince. However, a new variable had appeared.

The princess had officially stated that she was going to become queen saying that a woman could do the job of a man just as well and that she was better suited than her brothers for the role.

Her unexpected actions caused all the female Saints and Emperors of high status to support their goddess. The princess did all she could to use Hui Yue's backing to gain the throne. She knew when Hui Yue told her he would support her that this was her one chance to beat her brothers. She greatly used his fame to her benefit. Not only were experts enticed to join her for the sake of change, but many also joined due to Hui Yue’s influence.

This sudden change in the power struggle for the throne also caused internal struggles within families. Many influential families could not decide who to support, and even the supporters of the second and first prince were starting to shift towards the princess.

While many people were filled with fear of being assassinated, Hui Yue, and his mansion, was filled with happiness. Wang Ju Long's usually cold demeanor had vanished, there was a constant smile on her face as she tenderly took care of Jo and Lao.

While the children were in school, Wang Ju Long would follow Hui Yue around often hold his hand or just stay by his side.

I have been wondering, Wang Ju Long suddenly asked as she was sitting next to Hui Yue observing what he was doing.

The two were outside in the garden, and on the ground in front of them were pelts, hides, claws, gemstones, magical cores, metal ores, and other treasures. By the side of all these items was a small portable furnace which Hui Yue had found within the Universe Box.

Why are you suddenly so focused on crafting things again? I mean, the last time I saw you this focused was I the Dungeons of the Divine. You haven't been focused on it since returning from the Siban empire. Wang Ju Long asked, and Hui Yue looked up from the metal ore he had been examining. There was an excited gleam in his eyes and a smile on his face.

I did not have the time while fighting the war, nor did I have the mindset to focus on something such as this when the third prince was still alive. Now, however, I have nothing that stresses me. I can focus on becoming one with the Metal element deep within me. This will strengthen my ability in making things, especially inscriptions a field which greatly interests me. Hui Yue said smilingly. Deep within the Universe Box Hui Yue had found multiple books about various inscription runes and their usage. He could not wait to fully understand them and learned how to use them. With them, he would be capable of improving not only his own items and weapons but also the weapons of his friends as well.

Well, in that case, I will let you focus. I still have not fully mastered the formation you gave me. She smiled as a large red staff appeared out of nowhere. Leaving the grove where Hui Yue was seated, she searched for an open area that was suitable for her Wu Wei art. The trees and stones had already been pulverized here, and there was nothing in sight that could be destroyed by the terrifying blows of the formation.

The ground shook as one boom after another resounded through the entire garden, despite the constant rumbling Hui Yue was not affected in the least. The only thing that went through his mind was the things he was going to craft.

At first, he had picked up some metal ore.  Hui Yue did not know what kind of metal this was, but it was incredibly heavy. It was so heavy in fact that he needed to exert his full strength just to keep it from falling.

Looking into his inner body, he entered the middle dantian and found his Metal flame. This Metal flame then poured through his body before it left through his fingertips and slowly entered the furnace in front of him.

As it entered the furnace, it started to shine with a silvery light as it heated up. Looking at the ore in his hand, Hui Yue then placed it in the fire. Slowly he saw how the impurities were burned to nothingness and the metal itself was all that remained. The metal turned into a liquid as it was heated within the furnace, being constantly refined by the Metal flame.

Okay, first step complete, Hui Yue mumbled to himself as he had his full focus on the metal within the furnace. The piece of ore had gone from being a large chunk the size of Hui Yue's thigh to now only be the size of his fist. Even so, it was much purer than ever before. It now had a glossy gleam that had not been present before.

Slowly the silvery flame within the furnace died out and on Hui Yue's hands, two flaming gloves appeared. While the gloves protected his hands, Hui Yue reached into the furnace and picked up the hot, malleable metal within.

With his hands, he molded the iron into the shape of a short sword. After roughly shaping it, he picked up a hammer with various runes on it. This hammer had also originated from within the Universe Box. Hui Yue had only obtained it after offering the greedy box a vast amount of storage stones.

With an anvil summoned from his dimensional space, the metal was placed on the anvil as Hui Yue repeatedly struck the metal. Eventually, the sword became so sharp that one would be cut just from touching the blade.

But Hui Yue was not finished yet. Closing his eyes, he entered the Universe Box and summoned a scroll. Opening it, he looked at various runes before deciding on a one specific.

Memorizing the rune took him a good half hour, and afterwards, his consciousness slowly exited the dimensional space. Once more the young man looked at the sword in front of him.

Entering his middle dantian he once more summoned his silver flame but this time, it did not cover his entire hand, nor did he let the flame flow freely within the forge. Instead, a beam of light appeared from his index finger. This was a manifestation of his Metal flame that he could use for engraving.

Slowly and steadily, Hui Yue inscribed the rune he had memorized. Sweat formed in small beads, slowly dripping down his face, but Hui Yue had no time to worry about the sweat, his full focus was on the sword in front of him.

Inscribing the rune perfectly took Hui Yue three hours, and when he finished a satisfied smile appeared on his face. The rune had been incredibly difficult to inscribe because it was of such high quality and Hui Yue excited to test out his new creation hurriedly stood on top of it the sword. He poured his Wu Wei inside and with a bang he took to the skies. As long as he poured enough Wu Wei into the sword, it would keep soaring all the way to the ninth layer of the heavens. He would be able to fly amongst immortals!

Without resting, he repeated the same forging once more. An ore of metal equal to the first was used, and soon another flying sword appeared. Hui Yue repeatedly forged five flying swords before he felt he was sufficiently experienced to look at the rest of the many materials in front of him. It was clear that he was not satisfied with what he had made so far. He was aiming to create even more treasures.

The many items that were spread in front of him were all things which the previous owner had painstakingly gathered throughout his trips around the various worlds. These were all considered true treasures, yet Hui Yue was using them just to train his elemental affinity. If the previous owner knew what Hui Yue was doing with all his hard work, he would surely be coughing blood. Forging more and more treasures, Hui Yue made sure that the runes he inscribed truly fitted the items. After forging countless artifacts, he found that all his energy had been used.

Looking at the things in front of him, Hui Yue found that he had created a chest plate with runes that seemed to swirl around the edges. Every single one working together with the others to create one of the most challenging runic patterns he had ever made. There were a total of seventy-two runes which together made the strongest defensive runes in the scroll Hui Yue had read.

The runes, twisted together somewhat resembling a snake; the runes entwined to create an absolute defense making the metal so strong that it could even withstand the power of God ranked treasures.

This chest plate had taken the most time to forge, but it was also the most outstanding item he had made.

Well done in creating something so remarkable for your low level of strength, Cai Jie said walking from the shadows of the forest. It was not until now that Hui Yue noticed it was completely dark outside. He noticed the day had long since passed, but no one had come to interrupt his work, so he had not noticed earlier.

Such an amazing item, I assume you will gift it to young miss Ju Long? Cai Jie joked, and Hui Yue just smirked. It was indeed created for Wang Ju Long. Instead, he picked up one of the swords and tossed it to Cai Jie.

I am sure you can make use of this sword, He changed the subject and Cai Jie busy observing the sword could not help but whistle in admiration. A flying sword, huh? You have some outstanding inscriptions; this rune is so profound that even I have never seen it before. Since you've gifted me this amazing sword, I'll gladly take it! He said before he moved towards Hui Yue who was storing all his items back the storage space.

I used up all my internal energy crafting these things, Hui Yue sighed while he slowly stood up. Now it is time for me to go and do some training. If you need anything let's talk tomorrow, Hui Yue said placing a hand on Cai Jie's shoulder. He then turned around leaving. Nodding his head, Cai Jie once more glanced at the sword in his hands. A massive smile formed as he jumped on it and poured Wu Wei inside. With a smooth movement he overtook Hui Yue and rushed towards the mansion's doors.

Chapter 2 - Grandmaster Spiritual Blacksmith

Entering the mansion , Hui Yue went straight to his room where relaxed in a hot water bath.

After crafting the flying swords and the breastplate, Hui Yue had used up all his energy and was exhausted. He could feel his body aching; his entire body had been pushed to its limits, and even his muscles shrieked in pain as he had been using them full force while forging. A relieved sigh escaped his lips as the warm water gently massaged his tired body. It was so comfortable that he almost fell asleep as he was laying in the warm water.

He did not leave the bath before the water had turned cold, and as he finally got out, his body was relaxed and far more comfortable than it had been before. He had even managed to replenish a large amount of energy he had lost. Almost half of his energy had returned to him.

Getting dressed, Hui Yue sat down on the floor with his window open, and he allowed for the moonlight to shine on him. Although he had merged with the Green Pearl, the black witch, which let him absorbing Yin energy through the heavens and the earth anytime, he still absorbed far more Yang energy. Therefore he needed the assistance of the moon or Yin energy pills to keep his cultivation base balanced.

As the moon descended into the horizon and the sun rose into the sky, Hui Yue quickly left his room. His body was once more in peak condition, and with a smile was on his face, he left the mansion. He headed directly towards the spiritual blacksmith Cou Ling's shop.

He was excited and filled with anticipation because he wanted Cou Ling to look at the treasures he had forged the night before. He wanted to hear what she had to say about his items. He was excited to see if she was as satisfied with them as he himself was.

At first, he walked slowly through the streets much like all the commoners did. However, his impatience quickly grew too hard to control, and he jumped on top of the buildings running from building to building on his way towards the blacksmith’s shop.

Looking around Hui Yue discovered that he was not the only one using such a method, surprisingly there were actually many shadows rushing here and there. This was the first time he had seen others on roofs, and he could not help but laugh a little at himself for not realizing that if he could think to find a faster way to travel then so could others.

Looking at the people running back and forth, Hui Yue flicked his hand, and a sword appeared in his grasp. Pouring Wu Wei into the sword, Hui Yue jumped on and soared through the sky so swiftly that only a shadow was left behind.

Although his speed was quick, many of the other shadows hesitated for a short moment as they saw the figure fly off into the distance. Shock filled everyone's faces, and they looked at one another with complete and utter disbelief. Suddenly these experts turned around and started following this person who had ascended into the sky and was seemingly flying forward at an astonishing speed.

Hui Yue did not look behind him, nor did he have his spiritual energy spread out, so he was completely unaware that a large group of experts were following behind him. All of these experts had various techniques to fly, but none of them were as advanced as the one this person in front of them was displaying. It would take all their Wu Wei just so they could fly at his pace and that was for at most a few minutes, but here was a cultivator who was flying swiftly while perfectly ascending and descending above the city. His flight seemed like just another leisurely stroll through a garden.

The eyes of the many experts turned red from greed, and they couldn’t help but wonder how he did it. It was obvious this was not from his energies, as the consumption would be overwhelming. Therefore they had to find out what kind of treasure would make it possible to fly like this? None of them had ever heard about or seen such a heaven-defying item. As they all thought this, they could do nothing but use all their internal energies to rush behind this leisurely gliding expert.

Finally, Hui Yue had reached the location of Cou Ling's shop, and with a flick of his hand, the sword vanished as he fell towards the ground. Although he fell from a great height, he landed lightly on the road, not leaving even a mark on the ground.

There was a long queue in front of Cou Ling's shop as always, and Hui Yue could not help but smile as he jumped over the shop itself and entered the inner courtyard. He did not move into the store where he knew Fang Wei was busy selling weapons of all types but instead headed towards the smithy itself where Cou Ling was.

Entering the smithy he felt as if he was dropped into an oven as the hot air blew across his face. It was clear that she was working hard. Looking inside, Hui Yue found that she was not forging on the large furnace in the middle, but instead the furnace he had gifted her.

Saying nothing, he waited for Cou Ling to finish what she was crafting which took her only a short while. When she turned around, her face brightening greatly as she saw the young man in front of her.

Yue! She called out excitedly as she found a set of chairs and gestured for Hui Yue to sit down. The furnace you gave me is simply outstanding! She praised, her voice filled with excitement.

Are you here for the sake of getting some weapons perhaps? Or maybe a set of armor? I have it all ready for you, She said as she stood up, but Hui Yue lifted his hand. Wait, He called out, and Cou Ling instantly stopped turning to, look at Hui Yue quizzically.

Actually, recently, I have crafted some things, and I want you to look them over. He said as he waved his hand. A flying sword appeared together with the breastplate he had created for Wang Ju Long in front of Cou Ling.

Looking at Hui Yue with confusion, Cou Ling instantly accepted the two items and started looking at them. The more she studied them, the wider her eyes became. Eventually, she handed them back to Hui Yue, shaking her head with a wry smile.

These items are outstanding. The quality of these items are at the peak of the spiritual blacksmith level and is what a practiced spiritual blacksmith can forge, but your runes! Those inscriptions are simple earth shattering. They are far more powerful than anything I have ever seen before, and because of them you can easily be considered a spiritual grandmaster if not greater.

Nodding his head, Hui Yue understood that the items were slightly crude, but with the inscriptions, he had etched onto them made them priceless. Their abilities were far more outstanding than anything else.

Just as Hui Yue was about to answer, he and Cou Ling both heard knocking on the door leading into the smithy. As they looked over, they saw three experts standing in the doorway, and looking outside at least seven or eight more experts were present.

Both Hui Yue and Cou Ling were surprised as they walked towards the many experts. Excuse me, what can this lowly one do for you? Cou Ling asked politely. Many of the experts were clearly Saint ranked while a few were Emperors, but all of them were supreme experts.

Although these experts listened to Cou Ling, all of their eyes rested on Hui Yue. Some had red eyes while others were better at hiding their greed, though it was obvious that they were not here to be friends.

We saw you flying through the air as easily as the birds fly in the sky. One of the experts said. We would like you to share this secret with us. Should you chose not to do so, don't blame us for being ruthless. Another expert said, but his words just caused Hui Yue to start laughing.

You barge into my friend's shop and demand I give you something? You don’t even bother to give me face and offer a present of goodwill, but instead, threaten me? Do you truly believe I will just give you such an important secret? The mocking and disdain in Hui Yue’s voice caused many of the Saints to frown. They were supreme, heaven-defying Saints and they couldn’t even remember when the last time a mere junior dared be so insolent. Although they had seen him before in the grave, they knew that he had been hiding behind a group of Saints. Although he was strong, he was nothing compared to the large group gathered here.

You dare mock us? You’re not in a position to request anything from us Grand Marshall. While you might have the backing of a few beasts, you are nothing in front of us! You are nothing more than a beast yourself. Give us what we want, and we will be on our way.

Why don't you try me, Hui Yue growled as a sword appeared in his hand. The heavens above Muchuan City turned dark and thunder could be heard in the distance.

You want to fight me? You really think that your numbers mean anything against me? He laughed out loud as the sword in his hand flashed. One Direhound's Immortal Strike after another was released towards the cultivators, and the Saint's faces turned serious as they understood the incredible danger that these sword attacks possessed. However, Hui Yue ensured that none of the attacks hit anyone. He made sure that the energy dissipated into thin air. This was after all only a threat; he did not intend to go against all the Saints of Muchuan City.

Hmph, not only do you have a monstrous talent for your age, but you're also strong enough to threaten a Saint. One of the experts said as Hui Yue just smiling in response. His smile was not friendly but filled with a sinister blood lust.

Many of the experts watching felt a chill run down their spines before they stepped backward. They were suddenly not too sure about their decision. They felt that fighting Hui Yue might not be as easy as they had expected.

Fine, I will acknowledge your strength. What do you want for your technique? An expert finally asked with a sigh. In his hand was a high quality coin storage stone he took out to pay the price Hui Yue asked.

Seeing the Saints back down, Hui decided it was better to use this opportunity to gain items rather than wasting his time fighting a few Saints. Well, since you asked so nicely let me first make something understood. What I used was not a martial skill but a flying sword. I have an inscription that when placed on a weapon will let one fly; however since this inscription is of great importance to me it won't be cheap. I don’t mind inscribing it for you if you provide me with materials of various kinds. Highly ranked herbs would be the best.

Hearing what he said shocked everyone, but the Saint who had taken out the stone put it away and took out a few other storage stones. Throwing the stones to Hui Yue, he caught them and looked within. With a nod of his head, he looked at the expert who had thrown the herbs to him. These will work, give me a sword and inscribe the rune on it. Hui Yue said and moments after the expert produced a sword for Hui Yue.

Looking at the sword, the white-haired young man nodded his head and went into the smithy. He first inscribed the rune for flight after which he placed another rune on top. This rune formed an illusion over the runes making them impossible to discern. This would make it impossible for anyone to understand the runes he had inscribed or copy them.

Moving out of the room, Hui Yue gave the sword to the expert who had given him the storage stones filled with different high ranked herbs. As soon as the expert pushed his Wu Wei into the sword, he was astonished to find that he could soar into the sky by relying on the sword under his feet.

Seeing this expert soar into the heavens the eyes of all the other experts turned jealous, and they started yelling one after another practically throwing their storage stones to Hui Yue and requesting a flying sword. What they had not noticed, though, was that these swords were far slower than the one Hui Yue had been flying on.

Chapter 3 - Flying Sword

E veryone, calm down ! Hui Yue shouted, shocked that he was assaulted by experts trying to force their storage stones onto him. I am a grandmaster spiritual blacksmith, and obviously I will do business with those who can pay. Hui Yue said calmly as he took a few steps back. This is an inscription which I had the luck of acquiring while I was traveling through the wilderness, but because of its age, the stone could only be used once. I was lucky to find this inscription pattern left behind by a peerless inscriber.

I am not going to take over her shops so the future transactions will be as such, one high-grade storage stone filled with herbs, metals, or other items and also one spirit coin. I want some of these items to be rare, but don’t worry I won’t force you to only give me rare materials. I just want half of the items to be considered fairly rare or higher quality. The spirit coin will be given to Cou Ling for lending us her shop; the materials are for me. If you can pay this price, then I will gladly inscribe my flying rune into the item of your choice.

The price he had offered was not high considering how important the inscription was. Everyone, who had previously threatened him was now as friendly as could be as they rushed to get their inscribed weapons as soon as possible.

Pay Cou Ling, and I will take the swords one at a time. It will take some time to finish everyone’s, but I am sure everyone will agree that it is worth waiting for. Hui Yue laughed as he picked up the sword and entered the smithy behind him.

Hui Yue had already perfected the inscription when he was making the flying swords for himself, and the one he was using now was not as refined as the previous version. Therefore, the energy it used was minimal. The other inscription, however, the one which made it impossible to copy, required him to use quite a bit of energy. He soon found that he could inscribe four swords before he needed to use a red pill to return to peak condition.  

Although these pills were rare, Hui Yue had the recipe to make them. Looking at the endless amount of herbs he had in the Universe Box, Hui Yue was not too worried about using his pills up. When needed he would learn how and concoct the pills.

Laying down one inscription after another, Hui Yue finally finished. As he handed the final sword back to the last expert Hui Yue wiped away the sweat from his forehead as he sighed deeply. The expert took to the sky with an excited smile as he soared to the heavens.

That was quite amazing, Cou Ling said with a smile as she looked at the amount of spirit coins in her hand. Passing the storage stones to Hui Yue, she stored the spirit coins in her money stone. Although she was not willing to take the money, she knew that Hui Yue would not take it if she offered so instead of making it awkward she just kept the coins for herself.

It’s very draining, Hui Yue said as he slid down to the ground where he sat down. Leaning against the building, he closed his eyes. Making so many inscriptions took its toll even though it became easier the more he practiced. Even though each one took less energy, his energy had still dropped considerably. Therefore, he decided to relax for a moment.

When did you reach the grandmaster rank? Cou Ling asked curiously as she looked at Hui Yue. I guess you found the various inscriptions in the grave? Hearing the question, Hui Yue just smiled before he produced a memory stone which he placed against his forehead. A gentle blue light radiated within the courtyard before Hui Yue tossed the memory stone to Cou Ling.

So far I have only perfected these two inscriptions, the flight inscription and also the rune hiding inscription. Unfortunately, I am not able to pass on to you the protective inscription I used on the breastplate just yet. Also, when you make the flying inscriptions make them with seventy percent effectiveness so that they don't fly as fast as ours. He laughed as he stood up once more. I need to head out, but at least this will help me gather quite a few materials.

Laughing, he jumped on his flying sword and soared to the heavens. He was heading towards the Black Lion to gift a sword to Gao Yan. Although Hui Yue had only created five swords so far he planned to gift one to each of his friends. As soon as he had visited Gao Yan, who was ecstatic about the sword, he left to enter the Black Market Auction House.

Young Master Hui, A servant called out the moment Hui Yue entered the auction house while bowing deeply. Hui Yue was not surprised to see the servants notice him. He was used to it now, and he gently smiled at the servant in front of him.

I need to speak with Ma Kong, Hui Yue said to the servant completely certain that he would be led to his good friend. True enough, the servant bowed deeply once more, Young Master Ma is this way. The servant said. He led Hui Yue into the actual mansion, away from the auction house side and into the place where the Ma family lived.

They soon reached Ma Kong's office. The office of the young man who was now an important figure in the Ma family. He was highly valued as he often brought in great items for their auction house, and was exceptional at customer service. Not to mention, Ma Kong was the one in control of the insurance side of the Ma business. Ma Kong had originally been part of the Black Market Auction House in Riluo City much like his father and older brother, but due to his outstanding talent, he had been summoned to the capital where he had taken on greater responsibility. After arriving at Muchuan City he had showcased his true skills and firmly established himself as an important member of the core family.

Hearing someone knock he called out, come in, and Hui Yue entered the room. His appearance caused a smile to spread on Ma Kong's face.

Yue! He called out delighted as he placed the memory stone he was holding down on the desk and stood up. To what do I owe the pleasure? He asked as he went towards Hui Yue, leading him to a chair.

Taking out the sword, he gently handed it over to Ma Kong. Before he even had the time to speak, the eyes of Ma Kong shone with excitement.

Is this one of those awesome flying swords I've heard about? He asked, taking Hui Yue by surprise.

How can you have heard about them? I didn't give any out till today... He said out loud, but Ma Kong just smiled. One of your customers came to sell us a flying sword. After showing it off, our family purchased the sword for three hundred spirit coins. We are currently hunting down more of them, but the ones who managed to get them have been quiet. The higher ranked experts within the city are almost going crazy trying to purchase these swords.

Hui Yue didn't know whether to laugh or cry at this news. He was shocked to see that someone had already sold off the item he made them, and even more shocked at the extravagant price they had obtained for it. He also felt slightly guilty for not having told his friends about the flying inscription earlier, but he never thought it would be such a big deal. Well, I am the person who created these flying treasures. If you give me the rest of the day and hand me some swords, I'll make you a small stack of them. Hui Yue offered. Practicing inscriptions would help him become one with the Metal element, and this was something he was quite set on doing. Helping his friends at the same time was just a bonus.

This sword is made with a better inscription than the one you bought before, Hui Yue said as he gestured towards the sword he had already given Ma Kong. Keep it for yourself. The inscription I will use for the rest of your family will not be as efficient.

Ma Kong nodded his head, and a great smile formed on his face before he left the room for a short while. When he returned, he was holding a storage stone filled to the brim with ordinary swords.

Sitting comfortably in the chair, Hui Yue took one sword after another and inscribed the two runes on top of each other before he finally placed them on Ma Kong's desk.

*Knock* *knock*

Come in. Ma Kong called out, and the door opened. The Ma family Patriarch was revealed in the doorway. He quickly entered the room closing the door behind him, and his eyes shone with excitement when he saw the stack of swords that were placed on top of the desk.

I was informed that young master Hui was the secret grandmaster spiritual blacksmith who was capable of creating these flying swords. To see that you truly are creating so many flying swords, I fear that we might not have the funds to purchase them all. Would you perhaps be willing to sell them at our auction house? The patriarch asked, his heart aching. Although he truly wished to own these flying swords, he could not pay too hefty a price for so many swords. Hearing his words, Hui Yue just shook his head.

Ma Kong is my good friend; I am making these as a gift for him. If you do want me to be paid for them, then I would gladly accept some medicinal herbs. Not the rare ones but the ones an apprentice alchemist would use. Hui Yue laughed out loud, and the eyes of the patriarch grew increasingly bright. Herbs you say? I will immediately prepare them.

Although Hui Yue said that he was gifting these swords to the Ma family, they did not wish to take his friendship for granted. If they did not give him something in return for all the effort he made for their sake, then it was likely that in the future their relationship would not be as good. They were more interested in paying him for his work so that he would not hesitate to help them in the future than keeping a few rare treasures. They had already benefitted from Hui Yue multiple times. It was clear that if they kept a good relationship with Hui Yue, then their family would keep increasing its influence.

The patriarch and Ma Kong were not idiots. Hearing that Hui Yue was asking for medicinal herbs for an apprentice alchemist meant that it was highly likely this genius in front of them had managed to have an elemental affinity for both fire and wood, and as was evident in front of him he clearly had an elemental affinity for Metal. Someone with three elemental affinities was incredibly rare, and they would become a supreme expert if allowed to grow up. The patriarch would do anything to keep their relationship amicable with Hui Yue.

The patriarch was truly extravagant. For each sword, he delivered a high-grade storage stone filled with herbs some of which even had very rare herbs. It was clear that he had almost cleared their entire treasury of herbs that the Ma family owned. Despite this expenditure, the patriarch found it worth it. Buying herbs was a simple thing. The mercenaries would bring herbs in daily and sell it to the auction house, but these flying swords could only be made by one person! Buying them all and selling them at their auctions were the best thing for the Ma Family.

Hui Yue was fine with creating these swords. He knew that the Ma family would not flood the market with them, and even if they did, it did not matter too much to Hui Yue. The swords were of a lower grade than his own. They were made from black iron, not the high-quality materials that Hui Yue's swords were made from, and the runes on them were also of a lower quality than the runes he had put on his own swords. No one would be able to follow him when he decided to roam the skies.

Chapter 4 - Alchemist Guild

W e, the Black Market Auction House, cannot thank you enough for the kindness have shown our family, The patriarch said excitedly as his eyes hazed over when he saw the tall mountain of flying swords that were stacked on Ma Kong's desk.

Should you ever need anything, then do not hesitate to contact us. The Black Market Auction House will always be there to support you. Should we decline may the heavens strike us down and shatter our souls!

The patriarch was truly emotional. His eyes almost misty, and although he might have sworn the oath because of these emotions, it was an oath he would back with all his might. This was not the first time Hui Yue had done something to benefit the Ma family; he had done many things which had gained fame and money for the Ma family.

Patriarch, there is no need for you to make such an oath. Hui Yue laughed as he looked at the many storage stones in front of him. What you have given me is more than enough. All I did was give you flying swords. I am sure that there are others capable of creating such swords. Hui Yue said dismissively before he picked up the storage stones and placed them within the Universe Box. The moment they entered all the items were sucked out of the storage stones, and the items were placed within the box itself as the storage stones vanished from sight.

With a wry smile, Hui Yue knew that the spirit of the box had taken the stones. It was the same every time. Whenever he placed storage stones in the Universe Box, these storage stones would vanish. As for what the box used them for, Hui Yue was completely unaware. However, he had often used storage stones to make the spirit of the Universe Box find items for him. He clearly had a great use for them.

Thank you for all these items. Hui Yue said with a bow. I will not interrupt you any longer; I need to return home. I have some things that I need to do, and I am sure that you are going to be busy selling these swords. Should you need more in the future just make sure to summon me and I will stop by.

On the way back home to his mansion, Hui Yue flew at his fastest speed. Every time Hui Yue returned home hope sprouted in his mind. He hoped that Sha Yun would be waiting for him when he arrived, but every time, today included, all that he was met with was disappointment. Sha Yun had still not returned.

It was many months since the raid on the grave ended, and as the days grew longer, Hui Yue was more and more depressed. He feared that Sha Yun really might not return to him. She was one of his closest friends, yet even so, Hui Yue could do nothing. He did not know where to even start searching for her.

Hui Yue sighed deeply as he entered his room. Although he was disappointed once more, he said nothing as he sat down on the ground and closed his eyes. Moving his consciousness inside himself to examine the changes that his internal energies had gone while he crafted the flying swords.

Hui Yue found that crafting swords, and other things, required quite a lot of him as he was constantly using his inner energies and that the time he spent on creating things were even more rewarding than the energy he got from regular cultivation. It was akin to having a sparring match with a friend because all his internal energy had been used up many times, strengthening him greatly.

'Shocking,' Hui Yue said to himself as he looked at his spiritual energy sea which had increased dramatically compared to earlier that day.

It was not only his spiritual energy sea that had increased, but his Wu Wei core and his Qi swirl were even larger now. He finally understood why someone like Cou Ling, who spent all her time on forging, had managed to become a King ranked expert while solely relying on her forging ability.

Hui Yue opened his eyes once more, excitement filling his entire being. He was able to increase his strength while also learning something new. He now knew that he could become an alchemist while at the same time also increase his cultivation. He decided that he would also improve his Metal affinity by continuing to craft items. Although he was now considered a grandmaster spiritual blacksmith by others, he was aware of the truth. He was not skilled in making many different things. All he had mastered was forging swords and inscribing two kinds of runes.

He was still a far cry of having merged with the Metal element. Although most experts would stop focusing on their elemental affinities when they opened their upper dantian, Hui Yue understood that this was the wrong decision. Seeing the effects of Earth Tremor, he knew just how deadly elemental affinities could be. Therefore, he would increase his strength by merging with his elements.

'That is the right path to take,' Lan Feng's voice suddenly drifted into Hui Yue's ears. 'To become a God from the Saint rank, one needs to become one with the world. This step will be easier for you to accomplish if you have already managed to become one with the elements. Of course, you cannot merge completely with the elements just yet, but you can get very close. When you reach. This will make it easier to gain enlightenment and reach the God rank.' Lan Feng said, his voice full of certainty.

'Also learning how to craft things is not a bad idea. Unfortunately, I do not have a lot of formulas for alchemists so tomorrow I would suggest you go to the alchemist's guild and purchase some. Everyone who has both Wood and Fire affinities can buy them. However, the price for these formulas is usually quite high. They might not ask for gold or spirit coins as payment, but various treasures as well. You don’t have to worry about that for now though as the pill formulas you need are the most basic ones. You can definitely purchase them with gold coins.'

Nodding his head, Hui Yue agreed with what Lan Feng said. He knew that alchemists were looked at with great reverence and thus he could not help but feel excitement about becoming one himself. If he created enough pills, he would be able to assist Lao and Jo even more and, he would also be able to assist his friends better with their cultivation. Never again was he going to let his friends face any danger on their own. As he became more and more powerful, becoming a true expert, he would ensure that his friends could follow him; he would not leave them behind.

Deep in thought Hui Yue did not notice that Wang Ju Long had entered his room, looked at him for a moment, and then left. She wanted to see that Hui Yue was fine because she too worried about him and Sha Yun. Although the two of them had never been good friends, she knew that the snake-woman meant a lot to Hui Yue, and she didn’t wish such a fate on her.

The day went past while Hui Yue spent the most of it inspecting his internal energies. The day slowly went by, and Hui Yue ended up cultivating. He was calming himself and preparing for the following day.

The night went by and the following day arrived as excitement shone in Hui Yue's eyes. He quickly got ready and left the house heading towards one of the most magnificent buildings in Muchuan City. This building was built from pure black iron, and it was even harder to penetrate than the royal palace. There were guards everywhere, guards who were all Emperor ranked cultivators. Only the Alchemy Guild could afford to have such extreme and amazing experts for guards.

Moving towards the black building, Hui Yue walked with confidence yet the moment he was about to enter two guards blocked his path. Only alchemist can enter the guild. They said with cold voices as they looked at Hui Yue who casually lifted his hand as a red and a green flame sprouted from the palm.

Honored alchemist! They said in unison as they withdrew their staves, opening the entrance for Hui Yue to enter. Everyone who was passing the building looked at Hui Yue and saw him being let inside. All of their eyes were filled with surprise and also slight fear. Alchemists might not be as strong as many other experts, but their ability was still peerless. The pills created from a supreme grandmaster alchemist could make even a whole kingdom go to war.

Hui Yue understood that he was very far away from becoming a top tiered alchemist, but he also understood that he was fortunate enough to have such a high rank for his age. He would have enough strength to train for an extensive amount of time, and he would be able to perfect things faster than any other beginner because of his high cultivation level. Having a higher rank meant that he had more internal energy he could use at one time which was a great benefit.

Looking around him, Hui Yue walked down the hallway; this hallway had three different desks. Looking at them, one desk seemed to be selling pill and paste formulas. Another had quests that were ready for any expert to accept, while the third one had robes and papers for one to fill out. Curious about what it was Hui Yue moved towards it.

Hello, I am Hui Yue. I have both the Wood and Fire elemental affinities and wishes to become an alchemist, Hui Yue introduced himself and the woman behind the desk looked at him rather surprised.

You are not a Master ranked expert. Looking at your aura, you’re at the Emperor rank. It is very rare to see a new alchemist of your rank. The woman said surprised, but she quickly shook her head. What this young man spent all his years doing before becoming an alchemist had nothing to do with her. Every expert had different reasons to act the way they did, and it was not her position to question it.

I can sign you up as a new alchemist and give you pill formulas you need to master for the alchemist exam. When you're ready, you can take the first exam and become an alchemist of the first grade. We hold the exams once a month where you can test for the next rank. The highest rank is a grandmaster alchemist, and if you ever reach that level, then there will be no more tests. The woman explained.

This is the formula; the next test will be in four days. I doubt that you can make it in time and if you miss this exam, there will be a one month from then. I am sure you can make it by then if you practice hard enough. She said with a smile as she passed the memory stone to Hui Yue.

It cost three gold to take the exam. Also, you can trade all your pills or pastes here for materials. We buy anything made by an alchemist. We also sell materials at a favorable price, much cheaper than buying them in the city. Feel free to return when you have mastered this pill formula and want to take the exam. She said with a gentle smile on her face. She understood that this Emperor would master the basics and the formula she gave him far faster than any of the usual Master ranked experts who usually signed up.

Chapter 5 - Huli

Having accepted the formula, Hui Yue had rushed back to his mansion, and after seeing that Sha Yun had indeed not yet returned, he moved to his room.

The moment he opened the door, a fluffy ball of black and white fur jumped into his arms. Looking at the fluffy creature a smile appeared on Hui Yue's saddened face.

Although he was sad that Sha Yun was gone, he knew that he could not let it stop him from improving his own strength. He refused to believe that she was dead. He was sure one day she would return to his side.

What's up with you, Huli? Hui Yue asked the fox in his arms as he entered into his room and gently pet the fox. At the very start Huli refused to leave Hui Yue’s side, however, as the months passed, the fox understood that Hui Yue would always return. Huli then stopped following him everywhere and instead waited in his room, often sleeping in his bed.

This time, however, Huli had jumped into his arms the moment he appeared, and her head was rubbing against her new master.

Seeing the sudden change in her, Hui Yue was quite surprised. Is there something wrong? He asked, but he did not expect to get a reply. But to his surprise, the fox nodded her head rapidly up and down while gazing at Hui Yue with her big black eyes.

Laughing at the human-like expression on the fox's face, Hui Yue petted its head. It’s a shame you can't speak then I would know what you want you silly fox, He said gently as he kept patting the fox's head.

Is there any bad news? Hui Yue asked the fox which shook its head vigorously. How can something be wrong if it is not bad news? Hui Yue laughed as he too shook his head. He did not doubt that the fox was as intelligent as any other human, but having issues communicating with one another made it impossible for Hui Yue to know what the fox wanted.

Sha Yun is not back yet. I want to go out and start searching for her, but I really do not know where to look. Gao Yan sent his experts to scour through every corner of the grave, but even still, there were no signs of her at all... I really don't know what to do. He said as he buried his face in her soft fur as guilt gnawing at his insides.

The little fox gently nudged Hui Yue with her nose as her eyes were filled with worry for the young man.

Moving back from the fox, Hui Yue smiled at the cute fox. I don't understand why you chose me. He started talking once more, but I am very happy that you did. I just don't know what I can do for you; I am nothing compared to your previous master.

The fox just looked at him, all it did was get closer to Hui Yue where it made itself comfortable and laid down, relaxing. If it were a cat, it would be purring loudly.

Sorry Huli, The young man said as he placed the fox on the bed. I need to see how my ability is when it comes to alchemy. I have never tried it before, so I really need to focus.

Hearing this, Huli just laid down, observing the young man who sat down on the ground. From the palm of his hand, one herb after another appeared into thin air and was put on the ground in front of Hui Yue.

A large cauldron also appeared and a memory stone followed it as the last item summoned. Placing the stone on his forehead, a light shone in the room. Hui Yue had his eyes closed as he slowly immersed himself within the sea of information pouring into him.

So I don't need to create a medicinal pill, but just a paste is enough, Hui Yue mused to himself as he had read through the entire formula. It was a potion paste which, when smeared on skin allowed for the body to more swiftly absorb the energy of the heavens and the earth.

The reason this formula was chosen for the entrance exam for alchemists was that although this was a paste, it was also an incredibly sought after medicine. Any family within Muchuan City would ensure that their younger generation always had this paste at their disposal so that they could train quicker.

More than half of the paste was purchased by the Royal Academy at a high price, and therefore, as soon as one was able to make this paste, one would be considered an alchemist; that is when they successfully concocted it during the exam.

The paste was called the Devouring Paste of the Red Orchid. The reason it was called this was because the main ingredient was a red orchid. It was not any orchid that was red but a specific one which was considered rather common as a medicinal herb.

Closing his eyes once again, Hui Yue found he needed three red orchids, one green spirit grass, and one drop of summer dew.

Summer dew was obviously not a medicinal herb, but it was part of many common pills and pastes, and thus Hui Yue had gotten quite a few of them when he had gained materials from the experts and the Black Market Auction House.

Summer dew was one of the most common alchemist materials available, but Hui Yue did not mind that the had been paid in cheap materials. He understood better than anyone that he needed to create countless numbers of pills and pastes before he would be skilled at alchemy. Only when he had perfected concocting this paste would he take the exam. Going too early and failing because he had not trained enough would be a waste of time.

Picking up the cauldron, Hui Yue placed it in front of himself and from deep within he summoned forth two flames. One was green colored while the other was a mixture of red and yellow.

These flames poured into the cauldron and moments after it started shining with light as it lifted into the air. Hanging around half a meter above ground the two flames within were swirled around battling one another. Only when Hui Yue focused his will on these flames and forced them to work together did they slowly stop fighting one another and instead merged. They intertwined with one another looking like yin and yang as the two flames slowly rotated within the cauldron.

Nodding with satisfaction, Hui Yue picked up one of the red orchids and tossed it into the cauldron. He watched as the flames burned the flower leaving behind the energy from it.

The red flame destroyed while the green flame created a paste-like base from the energy the red flame took in. It did not take more than a few minutes to fully refine the first red orchid. He saw that the paste the orchid left behind was almost nothing. The flower had filled his entire palm but the essence left behind was less than the smallest part of his pinky finger.

Repeating the action three more times the paste that was formed from the red orchids’ energy had naturally become more than it was before. After refining the three flowers, he then added the green spirit grass.

The green spirit grass was harder to refine than the red orchids had been. Hui Yue had difficulty controlling the heat of his flames as this was something he had not really practiced before. The red orchid did not need a specific temperature to be refined as it was a simple medicinal herb that was easy to deal with, but the green spirit grass was a somewhat rarer ingredient. It required that the temperature not be too high while being refined or it would turn to ash. If this happened and the refined essence of the green spirit grass turned to ash not only would it ruin the paste he was trying to make, but it was also likely to become poisonous.

When concocting pills and something went wrong during the refinement of the materials, two results could happen. One was that the refined energy would simply cause an explosion and the higher grade the materials, the more dangerous the explosion would be. The second thing which could happen was for the paste or pill to become complete, but due to the wrong refinement method it would become poisonous or have unknown, unwanted side-effects.

But Hui Yue had caught it quickly and brought the flames under control. After a short while, he managed to refine the green spirit grass. He did not refine it perfectly, but it was definitely not poisonous, and it was a great result for his first try.

Now, Hui Yue withdrew the red flame back into his body but left the green flame in the cauldron.  

The green flame did not burn the materials present but kept them rotating within the cauldron. What Hui Yue needed to do now was to refine the drop of summer dew and mix it in with all the pastes he had refined. He could not do this with a flame that would cause it to evaporate. He slowly placed the summer dew in the