Nine Great Radiant Seals

“Shall I ask a sword cultivator to cast an expert eye?” Qin Sang fell silent, at a loss for words. The Sect Master of Dianjin Mountain did not doubt him, only assuming Qin Sang was in a difficult position. In this world, true sword cultivators were exceedingly rare, and ordinary people rarely encountered one. “Real Person, if it is inconvenient, I happen to know a True Person devoted to the sword path, whose swordsmanship is extraordinary. I can introduce you in his stead.” Qin Sang shook his head slightly. “No need.” The Sect Master of Dianjin Mountain showed disappointment. He was also very curious about the origin of this sword; if he could obtain the method used to forge it, it would surely benefit his path of artifact refinement. Unfortunately, Qin Sang was resolute, and his aura was faint. The Sect Master of Dianjin Mountain dared not press him, and could only reluctantly return the Chengying Sword to Qin Sang. “Thank you for your trouble!” Qin Sang paid the appraisal fee, rose, and took his leave. The Sect Master of Dianjin Mountain let out a soft sigh. …… Star Island Immortal Lake. Qin Sang flew slowly above the water. This trip to the Sin Plains and the Dao Gate had been rich in gains; next, he should enter seclusion for a time to digest what he had obtained. From afar he saw the outline of Sword Heart Island, and Qin Sang flew there in a flash. The black-robed old man immediately came out to greet him. Qin Sang had frequent dealings with Real Person Zhijian and was very familiar with the black-robed old man. He knew this person had received a great kindness from Real Person Zhijian, and ever since called himself Sword Slave, forgetting his own name, to show his loyalty to Real Person Zhijian. Conversing with Sword Slave, he learned that Real Person Zhijian was in seclusion, so Qin Sang instructed Sword Slave not to disturb him. “By the master's command, Sword Heart Island always reserves a cave dwelling for the Real Person. Old slave will lead you there at once,” Sword Slave said respectfully. “Very well,” Qin Sang nodded. The two soon reached the center of Sword Heart Island. The central part of Sword Heart Island was higher in elevation; the whole island resembled a bulging mound, and spiritual energy was most concentrated at the center. Real Person Zhijian's cave dwelling was on the left side of the mountaintop, and Qin Sang's was on the right. Entering the cave dwelling, Qin Sang looked around. The interior was furnished simply and elegantly, exactly to his liking. It was clearly arranged with great care by Sword Slave, and he was very satisfied. “Thank you, Daoist friend, for your trouble.” Sword Slave said he dared not, bowed, and withdrew. Qin Sang entered the quiet chamber, sealed the restrictions, and took out a jade slip. Inside were records of seniors' insights on cultivating the High Shenxiao Register. Some were treasured by the Two Courts of the Dao Court; some came from the Left and Right Offices of Thunder. Qin Sang briefly browsed through them and found that these insights might not all be suitable for him. The seniors who left their insights at the Dao Court and the Left and Right Offices of Thunder certainly cultivated orthodox methods matched with the High Shenxiao Register, while Qin Sang treated the High Shenxiao Register merely as a tool, and his fundamental method was still the “Origin Soul Sword Nurturing Chapter.” Going by old precedents might subject him to the influence of the other party's path, or even shake his own path. The Dao registers were vast and varied. A single register could correspond to multiple methods. For example, each of the Two Courts of the Dao Court had only one official register, yet there were countless immortals in the Dao Court; surely they did not all cultivate the same method. Although the Left and Right Offices of Thunder were not on par with the Two Courts of the Dao Court, they were still counted among the great sects. Different methods meant different paths; the higher the realm, the greater the divergence. Qin Sang suspected that the split in the Left and Right Offices of Thunder might have something to do with disputes over methods. Different methods summoned different guardian deities of the altar; the paths comprehended from the register would have subtle differences, and the altars cast would also vary. What Qin Sang had to do was to find the commonalities among these insights, remain undisturbed, and make them his own. Over the next period, Qin Sang placed the jade slips on the ground before him. Sometimes he picked one up and examined it for a long time; sometimes he fell into thought; sometimes he summoned the register altar and drew on the power of the Thunder Turtle demon core to try casting the altar. The altar gradually took shape. Casting the altar could not be done overnight; it needed to proceed hand in hand with cultivation. Several months later, Qin Sang felt the time was ripe, so he stopped casting the altar, calmed his mind, and truly began to cultivate. He had already cultivated the Eleventh Layer of the “Origin Soul Sword Nurturing Chapter” for some time in the Storm Realm. Though he could not cultivate after coming to this world, he contemplated the method whenever he had leisure. This time, after slaying Li Hou, he gained new insights into the method in battle. His cultivation over the next period should go very smoothly. Thinking these things over, Qin Sang activated the method. Dense spiritual energy gathered endlessly at the place where Qin Sang sat cross-legged, and the cave dwelling once again fell into stillness. It was common for Deity Transformation cultivators to remain in seclusion for several years or even decades. But after only the time it takes an incense stick to burn, Qin Sang suddenly opened his eyes, awakening from meditation, a glint of delight on his face. In just the time it takes an incense stick to burn, his cultivation had already advanced significantly, faster than Qin Sang had expected. Unexpectedly, Qin Sang fell into thought and gradually made a discovery. One reason was his insights into the Killing Dao accumulated from slaying Li Hou; the other was very likely the lingering grace of the heavenly tribulation! After crossing the tribulation, Qin Sang had vaguely sensed that some transformation had taken place within him, as if the tribulation lightning carried the true meaning of the heavenly Dao, making up for his own path, perfecting his previous one-sidedness and deficiencies in comprehending the great Dao. The Heavenly Eye Butterfly also benefited and broke through on its own. Now, as Qin Sang began to cultivate, the benefits of the heavenly tribulation truly manifested, and his cultivation advanced rapidly in a short time. After all, resonance between heaven and man was also a very important part of Deity Transformation cultivation. He carefully experienced it, and indeed it was so, but he was not carried away by delight. “How long can the lingering grace of the heavenly tribulation last?” Qin Sang believed it could not last; otherwise, with such an advantage, the great thousand worlds would belong to ascended cultivators. Perhaps because the small thousand world's heavenly Dao was incomplete, ascended cultivators coming from a small thousand world had this effect of accumulated breakthroughs upon first entering the great thousand; this effect should gradually weaken. But beyond doubt, the perfection of his own path would benefit every ascended cultivator for life. With this discovery, Qin Sang was all the more eager to cultivate. Cultivation knew no cold or heat. Two years had already passed since Qin Sang returned to Sword Heart Island. During these two years, Qin Sang did not step outside. He had already made arrangements on Huzhong Island for the contact method agreed upon with Mo Xingdao. No news came from Mo Xingdao or Clear Detachment Yuanjun, and Real Person Zhijian did not disturb him. Inside the cave dwelling. Qin Sang did not know when he had stopped cultivating. He held both hands before his chest, intently watching his empty palm. A faint sword shadow lay on the ground. After returning to Sword Heart Island, whenever he was not cultivating, Qin Sang would take out the Chengying Sword and examine it over and over. He first tried to analyze it with artifact refinement secret arts, with no result; then he tried to merge his own sword intent into the Chengying Sword, but it was still like a stone sinking into the sea. Finally, he did both at once. Two years passed, and Qin Sang still had no clue. Qin Sang considered himself at least half a sword cultivator, and he suspected the Sect Master of Dianjin Mountain had misjudged. Two hours later. Qin Sang suddenly withdrew his mind, a pensive look on his face. He was trying his ideas one by one; if in the end he was still at a loss, he would have to ask Real Person Zhijian to cast an expert eye. Putting away the Chengying Sword, Qin Sang took out the fist guard artifact blank, traced the meridians, and soon entered meditation again. Unknown how much time passed, the cave dwelling's restriction was suddenly triggered from outside. Qin Sang was startled out of his cultivation. He extended his divine sense and discovered it was Sword Slave outside. He sent a mental message: “What is it?” “Reporting to the Real Person, Venerable Zhenru of Jingtai Temple has come to visit. The master requests the Real Person to come to his residence for a meeting.” “Oh?” Qin Sang's expression shifted slightly. He had been immersed in cultivation these years and had almost forgotten Venerable Zhenru. This was also intentional on his part. If the other party sought the “Seven Master Buddha Seals,” he would naturally sit and wait like a fisherman on a terrace. “I understand, please ask the two Daoist friends to wait a moment,” Qin Sang said. Then he circulated his true essence, rose, and walked out of the cave dwelling. His cave dwelling and Real Person Zhijian's were separated by a patch of Sword Heart Orchids. Passing through the woods, he came to the entrance of the hall and heard the two men's laughter and conversation. Venerable Zhenru and Real Person Zhijian also noticed Qin Sang and both rose to welcome him. Real Person Zhijian joked, “Daoist Brother Qingfeng has come to Sword Heart Island for two years, and this poor Daoist has not seen you once. This time, it is thanks to Venerable Zhenru.” Venerable Zhenru put his palms together. “This humble monk rudely came to visit and has disturbed Daoist Friend Qingfeng's seclusion.” “Is Daoist Brother blaming this poor Daoist for not knowing etiquette?” Qin Sang laughed in reply, then shook his head at Venerable Zhenru. “It is a joy to welcome a friend from afar. Venerable, why say such things.” As they spoke, Qin Sang noticed that Real Person Zhijian and Venerable Zhenru had strange expressions. Real Person Zhijian noticed the anomaly first, sizing up Qin Sang without pause. Venerable Zhenru soon noticed something as well, and looked surprised. “Real Person's cultivation… in just a few years, your progress is truly rapid!” Qin Sang's cultivation had improved significantly compared to when he was at Jushan Diocese. However, Qin Sang's guess had also come true: the benefit of the heavenly tribulation was gradually weakening. “This poor Daoist wasted many years before being inscribed in the register. Such a small advancement is nothing to speak of.” Qin Sang shook his head, speaking as if it did not matter. The three sat down, sipping tea and discussing the Dao. Without realizing it, they spoke again of their experiences back at Jushan Diocese, and of the movements of the Dao Court and the Guifang Kingdom. In that great battle, no one knew what the Dao Court had obtained at Jushan Diocese, but afterwards it fell silent. In these two years, there had been no summons related to Jushan Diocese, nor had they heard of the Dao Court sending large armies to attack Jushan Diocese. Instead, the Guifang Kingdom had begun to make big moves. “The two Daoist friends cultivating in seclusion at Star Island Immortal Lake may not have heard the news yet. The demon states in the east have suddenly begun a trend of worshiping demons; demons have proclaimed themselves demon gods and are wildly building licentious shrines and demon temples. If it were only one or two demon states, it would be one thing, but all the demon states have greatly changed their systems. Surely the Guifang Kingdom is behind it. It is said that even demons have entered the Sin Plains to delude the ghosts into becoming believers…” Venerable Zhenru spoke of what he had heard. Jingtai Temple was located southeast of Star Island Immortal Lake, bordering the demon states, and knew every move of the demon states like the back of its hand. Upon hearing this, Qin Sang immediately recalled his experience when he first arrived at Jushan Diocese. Back then, the demons were only building temples on the outskirts, and the demon marquis only dared to lurk in the darkness, as if testing the waters. Now they had begun to openly and righteously worship the demon gods. “Could it be because of the battle at Jushan Diocese?” Qin Sang's heart stirred. Could the treasures and the way of gods that the Guifang Kingdom and the Dao Court were contending for be related? Real Person Zhijian took a sip of spirit tea, seeming unconcerned, and smiled faintly. “These demons—could they be impatient to become earth gods under the Dao Court's rule?” “This god is not that god!” Venerable Zhenru shook his head. Earth gods were all under the control of the Dao Court; how could the Guifang Kingdom, which could stand on equal footing with the Dao Court, be mentioned in the same breath. He said with concern, “I fear the demons have glimpsed the secrets of the way of gods and will use the way of gods to flourish greatly.” When the nest is overturned, how can any egg remain intact. The cultivators and sects of Jushan Diocese could only remain safe because the Dao Court blocked the sharp edge of the Guifang Kingdom, so the demons dared not stir up trouble. If the Dao Court could not withstand the demons, Jushan Diocese would fall first. Where would they go? “Whether demons or demon gods, the Dao Court's immortals will naturally worry. We are weak and isolated, and can only follow the great trends of the world. Why seek trouble for ourselves? As long as the demons do not conduct blood sacrifices and the ghosts have something to rely on, that is already a blessing.” Real Person Zhijian's expression turned serious. “As for the demon gods, what action has the Dao Court taken?” “I have not heard of any,” Venerable Zhenru shook his head. “Let us wait and see.” …… The three chatted about everything under the sun, and without realizing it, evening was approaching. Real Person Zhijian stood up. “Venerable's visit must be to discuss important matters with Daoist Friend Qingfeng. This poor Daoist will not keep you.” Qin Sang and the other also rose and bid farewell to Real Person Zhijian. Within the woods, a stone-paved path. One monk, one Daoist; tree shadows swayed, and the stream murmured. “Venerable's invitation, this poor Daoist has always kept in mind. I delayed too long before, and having just obtained a new register, I am eager to consolidate my cultivation,” Qin Sang explained. To a Deity Transformation cultivator, what were a year or two. Venerable Zhenru could not even wait a few years, so the “Seven Master Buddha Seals” must be very important to them. Venerable Zhenru smiled in response. “If the mountain does not go to the monk, the monk will go to the mountain.” As they spoke, the two entered Qin Sang's cave dwelling and sat facing each other. Qin Sang said nothing, waiting for Venerable Zhenru to explain his purpose. Venerable Zhenru put away his smile, his expression serious, and asked solemnly, “May I ask, Daoist Friend, where did you learn that Buddhist seal mudra you displayed?” Qin Sang feigned a frown and asked in return, “Is this Buddhist seal mudra somehow connected to your temple?” Seeing that Qin Sang was unwilling to answer, Venerable Zhenru sighed softly. He also knew he had been too eager and revealed his intentions. But this matter concerned a great secret of the temple; he absolutely could not miss this person. Moreover, the other party was a Real Person of the Dongxuan realm, worldly-wise, and it would by no means be easy to deceive him. Venerable Zhenru looked hesitant. After hesitating for a long time, he said, “Has Real Person heard of the Nine Great Radiant Seals?” Nine Great Radiant Seals! Qin Sang's pupils contracted, and great waves surged in his heart. The Nine Great Radiant Seals—he not only knew of them, but had even learned half a seal! He had learned half an Inner Lion Seal from Master Huaiyin of the Great Compassion Chan Temple. Although it was only half a seal, it possessed tremendous power and could instantly heal a severely injured body; it could be called an unparalleled divine ability. “What is the relationship between the Seven Master Buddha Seals and the Nine Great Radiant Seals?” Qin Sang had already realized something, and his heart was filled with both surprise and joy. “Among the Nine Great Radiant Seals is one called the Great Diamond Wheel Seal.” Since he had already spoken, Venerable Zhenru no longer kept secrets and explained, “When this seal is mastered, one cultivates the Diamond Glazed Body. The body is like pure glazed treasure, divine artifacts cannot injure it, and its power is matchless. Our temple has preserved an image of a high monk displaying this seal, and I have had the good fortune to observe it…” Pausing, Venerable Zhenru gazed at Qin Sang and said, “The few Buddhist seal mudras Real Person displayed have a trace of the spirit of the Great Diamond Wheel Seal. I suspect that the person who created this seal not only understood Buddhist principles deeply and possessed vast supernatural powers, but very likely borrowed from the Great Diamond Wheel Seal.” “Borrowed from…” Qin Sang pondered in silence. Venerable Zhenru did not know that what he saw was merely the tip of the iceberg. Qin Sang had comprehended all seven Buddhist seals, and discovered that he was far from mastering the “Seven Master Buddha Seals.” The seven Buddhist seals could be fused together, and he had only just begun. The abilities of the seven seals were very balanced. What kind of divine ability would result after fusion? Was it the ultimate limit? Could it match even a fraction of the momentum of the Great Diamond Wheel Seal? As he reflected on the cultivation process, Qin Sang suddenly had an idea. Could it be that there was no question of borrowing at all. Rather, a great supernatural being had split one seal into seven, so that later generations could cultivate step by step, more easily mastering it!