The Eternal Way-Chapter 115: Struggle for Influence

"No, you have rendered a great service and it would be improper not to reward you. Although I cannot bestow rewards on behalf of my true self, I must still offer something," the star said.

"Though your talent is exceptional, you are young, barely over twenty, with shallow cultivation. It wouldn't be appropriate to give you lavish rewards. I can't think of anything suitable at the moment. Why don't you tell me what you desire?"

The Grand Diviner handed the choice back to Li Qi.

He appeared very relaxed.

But Li Qi was sweating profusely.

If he asked for something displeasing, would he die?

However, he needed to respond immediately. If he pondered too long, it might seem insincere or calculated.

Thus, after a brief consideration, Li Qi bowed deeply and said, "Your humble servant has no other wishes but to request that the Grand Diviner inform my teacher that I have successfully located Lady Luo Fu Niangniang, fulfilling my mission."

After speaking, Li Qi glanced surreptitiously at the Grand Diviner.

Unfortunately, the star had no facial expressions, making it impossible to read his thoughts.

"Very well, what is your teacher's name?" the Grand Diviner inquired.

Li Qi's forehead broke out in sweat.

What was Young Master Zhu's name again?

He didn't know.

However, he quickly recovered and presented the willow branch: "I dare not ask or speak my teacher's name, but this willow branch was given by him. The Grand Diviner should recognize it."

The Grand Diviner looked at the willow branch and shook his head: "Oh, it's this boy, he actually took an apprentice? Are you an apprentice or a close disciple?"

"Of course, an apprentice," Li Qi replied.

"That makes sense, as he never had any disciples before. Even as an apprentice, you're a first. Very well, I've already informed him. Now, I shall take Luo Fu Niangniang away."

Before leaving, he asked Shen Shuibei again: "Lunar Essence, do you wish to return with Luo Fu Niangniang?"

"Will Lady be alright... Could the Grand Diviner inform us how long it will take for her true spirit to recover?" Shen Shuibei asked in response.

"Naturally, she will be fine. Do you doubt that Wu Deity Mountain can't protect Luo Fu Niangniang? As for the recovery of her true spirit, it could take anywhere from ten years to a hundred years, depending on further adjustments," the Grand Diviner proudly answered.

Upon hearing this, Shen Shuibei glanced at Li Qi and whispered, "Li Qi, would you like to also cultivate at Wu Deity Mountain?"

"My cultivation has dissipated, so starting over anywhere doesn't make much difference," Shen Shuibei whispered while glancing at Li Qi. "If you go to Wu Deity Mountain, we can go together. Otherwise, I'd prefer to stay by Lady's side until she awakens."

Hearing this, what else could Li Qi think?

Why wait to go to Wu Deity Mountain when he could start now?

It was normal to return to his master after completing his task.

Li Qi hurriedly said, "Grand Diviner, could you bring me along to the sect?"

"It doesn't matter; decide for yourselves," the Grand Diviner responded casually, without much fuss.

But at that moment, a voice interrupted.

"Who said you could leave? Am I your teacher, or is he?" Young Master Zhu emerged from thin air, still in his scholar's attire.

The Grand Diviner had just notified him, and here he was.

"Young Master," Li Qi immediately bowed.

He dared not call him teacher, so he used 'Young Master' instead.

"You completed the task well, but wanting to return to the mountain now seems rather unambitious," Young Master Zhu remarked upon appearing.

As soon as he appeared, everyone's attention turned to him.

Without waiting for anyone to respond, Young Master Zhu looked at the Grand Diviner and complained, "Old man, what are you thinking? Bringing my student back to the mountain now, are you trying to ruin his future?"

"You sharp-tongued brat, I won't argue with you. Since he's your student, do as you please," the Grand Diviner, seeing Young Master Zhu, simply left.

Left...

Hey, you left Shen Shuibei and Yangning behind! And what do you mean by ruining my future!

Li Qi, Shen Shuibei, and Yangning were all stunned.

Was it really that unreliable? How could he just leave!

"Alright, you two step aside. I need to speak privately with my student," the suddenly appearing Young Master Zhu waved his hand, and Li Qi felt his body move involuntarily.

In an instant, the surroundings changed into the chaotic space of the altar.

Shen Shuibei and Yangning were gone, leaving only Li Qi and the smiling Young Master Zhu.

Li Qi respectfully lowered his head, waiting for Young Master Zhu to speak.

"Well done indeed. Though you are an outsider, I couldn't foresee what you did during this time, but finding Lady Luo Fu Niangniang and summoning the Grand Diviner despite facing two sixth-Rank demons shows your dedication and capability. You haven't even reached the Rank yet, which makes your performance even more impressive," Young Master Zhu praised with a smile.

"Young Master's praise is too kind," Li Qi modestly responded.

"Don't call me Young Master anymore; you may now call me teacher," Young Master Zhu instructed.

"Disciple greets teacher!" Li Qi immediately bowed deeply and called out without hesitation.

Finally, he had secured a powerful mentor!

Accepting Li Qi's bow, Young Master Zhu continued, "Do you know why I didn't let you return directly to Wu Deity Mountain?"

Li Qi didn't know, so he honestly replied, "Disciple does not know."

"If you returned now, due to my seniority, you wouldn't train like ordinary disciples but would enter directly into the inner mountain. With Lunar Essence Shen Shuibei by your side, you'd attract too much attention. Your current cultivation isn't enough; you might get killed or lose your path if you go back now," Young Master Zhu explained.

Li Qi, sweating, boldly asked, "Teacher, may I ask... do you have poor relations with others?"

Young Master Zhu's expression remained unchanged: "There are many mediocre people at Wu Deity Mountain who don't get along with me."

Li Qi wiped his forehead.

Alright, understood.

You've offended too many people. As your student, if my level isn't high enough, returning might lead to trouble...

"Understood, Teacher. I will set out from here and head to Wu Deity Mountain," Li Qi respectfully replied.

"Hold on, I haven't given you your reward yet," Young Master Zhu interrupted Li Qi.

"This time, although I don't know what you experienced on your journey, you faced two sixth-Rank demon kings head-on and survived. That's commendable, very well done. You truly are my student," Young Master Zhu praised.

It sounded as if he had actually taught Li Qi something...

Li Qi thought sarcastically in his mind.

Suddenly, a stone hit Li Qi's head with a thud, making him dizzy and almost lose his balance, though he wasn't injured.

"Complaining about your teacher in your heart deserves punishment. Although I haven't taught you, you shouldn't say it out loud or even think it in front of me. Don't you know that for cultivators above seventh Rank, your inner thoughts sound like shouts in their ears? If you ever think like this again in front of someone above seventh Rank, you might not make it back to Wu Deity Mountain. Consider this a lesson," Young Master Zhu said nonchalantly.

He then extended his hand, and instantly, the chaotic space split open!

"At the dawn of creation, there were no beings; thus, it was called chaos."

"Later, the light and pure ascended, forming the sun, moon, stars, and constellations. Thus, the sun, moon, stars, and constellations are known as the Four Symbols," Young Master Zhu murmured.

As soon as he finished speaking, the primordial chaos around them suddenly cleared, revealing the sun, moon, stars, and constellations hanging in the sky, orbiting the earth!

Then, the sun, moon, stars, and constellations collapsed once more, each transforming into a strand of clear qi that fell into his hand.

"I grant you these strands of the Four Symbols' qi—each with its own unique uses. Study them carefully, and you may find benefits. In times of danger, you can directly use them to help you escape four life-threatening crises, providing some assurance on your journey." Young Master Zhu told Li Qi, then waved his hand.

Four strands of clear qi flowed into Li Qi's body, lying dormant within him.

After doing this, Young Master Zhu drifted away, leaving Li Qi with just his back view.

He left without even saying goodbye.

Li Qi stood in the chaotic space, bowing respectfully to the retreating figure for five full minutes.

Finally, he lifted his head, and the words he had been holding back burst forth.

Damn, no wonder you have poor relations with others!

Hopefully, he's gone now and didn't hear that?

This teacher is really unreliable!

---

However, Young Master Zhu wasn't entirely unreliable.

As a reward for Li Qi's accomplishments and to ensure his journey went smoothly, Young Master Zhu gave him four strands of divine qi derived from the sun, moon, stars, and constellations, which should be very powerful.

Along with these four strands of qi, Li Qi also received his inheritance of techniques from Young Master Zhu. His mind now held a new book filled with various techniques—exactly one hundred and twenty types, likely meant to be studied over the next decade.

Subsequently, Li Qi left the chaotic space and returned to White Snake Mountain.

Standing on the mountain, he found himself alone.

It seemed Shen Shuibei and Yangning had already left.

"Well... I guess it's a good thing?" Li Qi muttered to himself with a bitter smile.

Compared to those lofty celestial figures, he felt insignificant. Being able to associate with them was thanks to his makeshift teacher, Young Master Zhu.

He hadn't even told Li Qi his name.

Forget it, calling him teacher is fine.

Now, he would have to walk to Wu Deity Mountain by himself.

No, wait, there's Old Horse. At least he has a loyal companion, unlike women who leave without notice.

Wait, where's Old Horse?

Damn it, where's Old Horse!

Panicking, Li Qi looked around but couldn't find Old Horse.

This was bad.

Would he really have to walk one hundred fifty thousand kilometers?

Damn, the distance between Earth and the Moon is only thirty thousand kilometers. This would be like walking that distance five times!

Li Qi frantically searched for Old Horse, wondering if he had fallen.

Just then, he saw Old Horse carrying Shen Shuibei, slowly approaching from below.

Shen Shuibei still looked dazed, her presence ethereal, as if she didn't belong to this world.

Li Qi glanced at Old Horse, then up at Shen Shuibei.

They exchanged glances.

Old Horse trotted over happily, nuzzling Li Qi and snorting, seemingly glad to see him unharmed.

Li Qi noticed Old Horse had grown some scales around his neck mane.

But that wasn't important. What mattered was Shen Shuibei was still here.

"Miss Shen, why didn't you return to Wu Deity Mountain with Yangning?" Li Qi asked politely, suppressing his emotions.

"Oh... Well, I asked the Grand Diviner how he planned to deal with you," Shen Shuibei replied, twirling her hair awkwardly while sitting on Old Horse. "He said he intended to have you walk back to Wu Deity Mountain as a form of training."

"I asked how long it would take."

"He said it would take about four or five years."

"Then he mentioned that since Lady Luo Fu Niangniang needs ten to a hundred years to recover, it wouldn't be much of a delay if I stayed behind and walked back with you," Shen Shuibei explained, somewhat confused.

"I thought about it and agreed."

After Shen Shuibei finished, she looked at Li Qi.

"I see," Li Qi responded calmly, nodding. "Let's go then."

Calm my ass! It was my fault for complaining about my teacher! You're truly my savior! Anyone who doesn't get along with you must be wrong!

"Yeah!" Shen Shuibei nodded, and they exchanged silent looks.

But then they both smiled. Li Qi led Old Horse, with Shen Shuibei riding, and they descended the mountain together.

Li Qi didn't know what to say; his mind felt muddled, probably from being struck by Young Master Zhu. His usual sharpness had vanished.

He didn't even ask why Old Horse had scales on his neck, assuming it was some benefit Old Horse had gained. Young Master Zhu couldn't be that stingy, right?

Could he?

As they continued down the mountain, they spotted banners waving not far ahead—an entourage of carriages!

The carriages were extremely lavish, pulled by four horses each, all magnificent steeds adorned with silk, cinnabar, lacquer, silk, cotton, large bamboo, small bamboo, and gold.

The term 'four horses per carriage' indicated a noble chariot, fitting for a high-ranking official.

Behind them, an entire convoy of carriages formed a grand procession, clearly waiting for distinguished guests.

"What's that?" Li Qi raised his head, his gaze regaining clarity.

The external stimulus quickly restored his intelligence.

"Look at those banners—it seems to be the governor's carriage. Wait, the governor of White Snake Prefecture?" Li Qi frowned, unsure of what to do.

Before he could decide, a voice echoed in his ears.

The voice spoke, "Your humble servant has come personally to welcome the young master. Today, we are honored by the presence of two Grand Diviners and a Grand Wu. Our preparations for wine and food are crude, and our reception etiquette is lacking. Feeling ashamed, we cannot keep you here, but seeing the young master still present, we believe you must possess a kind heart and broad-minded character. Therefore, we have prepared a humble banquet to welcome you and the lady!"

Li Qi understood immediately.

Well, his teacher certainly commands respect.

Even passing through briefly, the mere presence of his teacher had frightened the governor of White Snake Prefecture into rushing here to greet them.

Thus, Li Qi responded, "Governor, there's no need for such formality. We are merely passing through. Please, let's skip the banquet!"

Just then, Shen Shuibei bent down and whispered, "Such banquets often have many rare treasures..."

Hearing this, Li Qi blinked.

At that moment, the voice continued, "Young master, please don't be modest. Since you are heading to Wu Deity Mountain, why not travel with us? Not only will it be faster, but it will allow us to show proper hospitality and express our gratitude!"

Listening to the tone, Li Qi couldn't help but marvel.

Is this what it feels like to have powerful backing?

Although it seemed that Wu Deity Mountain was at war with the Tang Dynasty, causing him great fear, in this land governed by the Wu Dao, having a Grand Diviner as a teacher instantly elevated his status.

However, Li Qi was well aware that the respect shown to him stemmed from fear of his powerful backer rather than himself. Thus, he dared not be overly arrogant. With Shen Shuibei's reminder, he softened his tone and said, "Since the governor has already made preparations, I can only accept your hospitality with gratitude!"

"Haha, why such formalities, young master? It is my honor to travel alongside you," the governor's voice echoed.

Li Qi pursed his lips.

He had just been addressed as 'your humble servant,' but now they were calling him 'old man.' These people sure knew how to take advantage of situations.

However, since the decision was made, there was no need for further pretense.

Li Qi waited on the spot.

Soon, the carriage procession ascended the mountain.

Only then did Li Qi realize how truly large these carriages were. They weren't mere carriages but more like transporting a fifty-square-meter single room up the mountain.

Four slightly shorter-than-Old Horse dragons pulled the carriage, beneath which were pack beasts. The carriage itself was adorned with floral charms and runes, guiding some form of 'qi' presence, making this lavish single room extremely stable.

Behind them followed a ceremonial guard, orderly and magnificent, with banners, musical instruments, parasols, fans, dragon umbrellas, and costumes. The banners fluttered, music played, and fragrant flowers danced along the road. Pearls and jade glittered, and the attire was exquisitely crafted, presenting an elegant and splendid scene.

Behind them were soldiers armed with bows, arrows, swords, spears, crossbows, and axes, their armor made of lacquered leather and bone arrowheads. Each soldier stood nine feet tall, with handsome features, forming a formidable force that stirred dust clouds and radiated awe.

Just one glance revealed the governor's grandeur and opulence.

An official led the way, approaching Li Qi, stopping the carriage, and opening the door, "Please, young master and lady, enter the carriage and travel with the governor!"

Li Qi asked, "What about my horse?"

"The groom will take care of your mount, rest assured."

Hearing this, Li Qi helped Shen Shuibei dismount and walked into the carriage without taking any luggage.

Upon entering, Li Qi felt a momentary daze.

Damn, this isn't a small room; it's a huge villa inside!

The interior of the carriage was much larger than its exterior. From outside, it appeared to be a fifty-square-meter room, but inside, it looked like an exquisite pavilion.

Inside, crystal lights dazzled, making Li Qi feel like he had entered a grand hall. A towering redwood tree adorned with pearl flowers, qionghua, and agate flowers filled the space.

Looking around, window lattices framed views, surrounded by railings, sparkling with colorful crystals. Jewels displayed various wonders, green light shimmering, layered with lush plants, creating a breathtaking sight.

As he walked through, over a dozen maidservants bowed respectfully, greeting, "Welcome, young master!"

These beautiful maidens, each graceful and elegant, exuded fragrance, smiling with flower-like faces, dressed in red skirts and blue capes, spreading a delightful aroma. Their eyes sparkled, making the air seem full of blossoms.

In the hall, a long table was already filled with people—civil officials, military officers, and some who didn't appear to hold official positions, likely from cultivation sects.

On the table, numerous delicacies were arranged, emitting enticing aromas, while maidservants served attentively.

Above all, a desk held a middle-aged man with a stern face, dressed in official robes, sitting at the head of the table, inviting Li Qi, "Come, young master, please sit!"

Li Qi remained standing, unmoving.

Honestly, he was overwhelmed by the scene.

But Li Qi had seen countless CG movie effects and had some resistance to such fantastical scenes. He only felt dizzy for a moment before quickly recovering when the governor spoke to him.

"Thank you for the invitation, Governor." Li Qi bowed and then led Shen Shuibei to sit opposite the governor, appearing very natural.

After sitting down, others also chimed in:

"It is a great honor to have the young master join us!"

"I've read about the might of the Grand Diviner in ancient texts, and today's encounter confirms its power!"

"Thanks to your esteemed teacher, the curse demon and bear slayer demons plaguing White Snake Mountain are gone, relieving billions of residents of their suffering!"

Flattery poured in from all sides.

It felt like the mayor visiting a neighborhood committee inspection.

Fortunately, Li Qi handled it well, chatting and asking, "I am new here and don't know the names of the officials in White Snake Prefecture. Could you introduce yourselves so we may stay in touch?"

"Why call yourself lower, young master? That makes it hard for us to position ourselves. I am Tan You, the supervisor of White Snake Prefecture," one person introduced first.

"Indeed, if the young master calls himself lower, where would we stand? I have no official position, wouldn't that make me even more embarrassed? My Northern Gate Gang merely handles logistics," another chimed in, awkwardly mentioning his identity.

Suddenly, Li Qi found himself bombarded with introductions.

He navigated through conversations gracefully, handling everything properly. Even occasional slips didn't draw attention.

Everyone wanted to elevate Li Qi, making him seem like a true nobleman despite being unranked.

Shen Shuibei shrank back, her powers depleted. Without keen observation or unique detection techniques, it was hard to discern her fifth-Rank essence. She looked plain and unadorned, blending in with the other beautiful maidservants, unnoticed.

Thus, she could observe freely.

Mostly, she watched Li Qi.

Despite being surrounded and seemingly aloof, Shen Shuibei noticed Li Qi maintained clarity, not letting the praise go to his head.

This pleased her.

At least better than looking dazed after being hit by a stone.

Occasionally, she glanced at the governor.

Apart from initially inviting Li Qi, he observed the exchanges below without intervening.

Hmm, Li Qi still lacks experience, allowing himself to be underestimated. If he focused too much on those below, it would seem shallow.

Shen Shuibei pondered these thoughts.

But it didn't matter; they needed no deeper connection.

After some time, Li Qi grew tired of the endless chatter.

Though enthusiastic, no one offered real gifts.

Talking was fine, but endless chatter became tiresome.

Luckily, these seasoned officials soon let Li Qi off, avoiding drawing negative attention.

Seeing this, the governor clapped his hands, "Enough idle talk! Let's eat and chat while dining!"

Everyone agreed, and the banquet began.

With a gesture, maidservants started serving dishes and pouring wine.

More women, elegantly dressed, emerged like blooming flowers, filling the hall with beauty akin to celestial beings.

Dozens of dancers performed respectfully, then lined up, each dressed in flowing sleeves, graceful and charming, moving lightly with melodious voices.

Seated, they began to play music and dance, performing beautifully.

Musicians played flutes, plucked strings, and sang harmoniously, filling the air with enchanting melodies.

Dancers responded, their skirts swirling, laughter echoing.

Occasionally, birds chirped, blending with the music. Dancers moved gracefully, like sea swallows darting through flowers.

Their movements sometimes cooled, like ice in summer, calming fiery desires, while other times warmed, stirring passions.

Girls danced like swallows through flowers, jewels sparkling under the lights, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Music and treasures combined, dazzling the eye, making it hard to focus.

Suddenly, the giant coral in the center of the hall swayed, sprouting countless buds.

Blossoms opened, multicolored and large, each containing a beautiful figure playing instruments, releasing fragrant breezes, butterflies dancing among flowers.

The entire hall seemed enhanced with special effects, light points flying, petals scattering, butterflies weaving through.

Closer inspection revealed tiny beauties, exquisitely crafted, indistinguishable from humans except for their butterfly wings, naked and ethereal, evoking a desire to catch and examine closely.

Li Qi was astonished.

A nearby maid explained, "My lord, please take a look. This item was crafted according to Li Dao (The Dao of Reason and Principle) from the Tang Kingdom, originating from the Eastern Sea. It is called 'Mirage Tree' and can project lifelike illusions, making it perfect for entertaining guests at banquets."

Li Qi nodded, understanding.

Could this be used for holographic invisibility on the battlefield?

Using it for entertainment seemed wasteful.

Besides the performances, the many delicious dishes overwhelmed him.

Li Qi marveled at the contrast between laborers and these upper-class figures.

Enjoying the performances and food, Li Qi realized most dishes were unfamiliar.

Before the banquet, servants had set out ancient-style utensils like goblets, cups, trays, and vessels.

Each place setting included a bronze cauldron filled with unknown meats, emitting enticing aromas.

Golden and lacquered ware adorned the tables, finely crafted with red backgrounds and gold accents.

The dishes were varied and exotic, including familiar meats like beef, lamb, chicken, duck, pork, fish, donkey, and horse.

There were also tastier, unidentifiable ingredients, likely rare ingredients from various habitats.

The feast gathered creatures from land, sea, and sky, creating a diverse array of delicacies.

Endless dishes and drinks, accompanied by beautiful songs and dances, created a heavenly experience.

However, Li Qi politely declined the maidservant's offer to serve him, considering it inappropriate with Shen Shuibei present.

Understanding his intent, the maid stepped back, leaving space for Shen Shuibei.

Shen Shuibei sat beside Li Qi, guiding him on what to eat.

She explained each dish:

"This is Feiyi, shaped like a quail, yellow body, red beak. Eating it removes internal parasites."

"Don't eat that. It's Danwood. It tastes really good, but eating just one can keep you full for three days. Save it for later."

"This is Pincao(薲草) sauce, good for mood enhancement. Be careful not to overeat."

"This is the Qi Bird (鵸?). Eating its meat can prevent nightmares and ward off evil influences. Eat more of it—you've been infiltrated by the malevolent energy of those two sixth-rank demons, and I'm worried there might be lingering effects."

"That round fruit is Cupressus, boosts strength. Good for your martial cultivation."

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Li Qi listened and ate accordingly, using chopsticks and forks to pick beneficial foods.

He shared with Shen Shuibei, earning praise for treating her kindly, highlighting her beauty and intelligence.

Noticing the maidservants only served and didn't partake, Li Qi's sharing behavior earned genuine admiration.

After the meal, more pleasantries ensued.

Li Qi grew tired of the endless social niceties.

Didn't these people need to cultivate?

How did they reach their ranks?

After about an hour, the carriage suddenly stopped.

"Good, we've arrived. Our opportunity awaits. Will you join us, young master?" the governor smiled, looking at Li Qi.

"Naturally," Li Qi replied, watching everyone abruptly lose interest in beauty and food, rushing outside.

Even the governor rose, walking alongside Li Qi, "Your generosity grants us this opportunity, young master. We owe you a debt of gratitude."

Ah?

Confused, Li Qi decided to play along.

"Governor, no need for formality."

"Haha! Truly a gentleman from a great sect. Your gratitude will be expressed later. I must hurry; we'll meet again at the city!" The governor hurried out, disappearing from view.

Li Qi was puzzled but followed suit.

Then he understood.

Why these people were so eager, why the governor sought his favor.

They weren't at a city but the previous battlefield!

On the battlefield lay a circular mirror, covering a hundred miles.

This was the mark left by the Grand Diviner suppressing the Curse Demon and Bear Slayer Kings, flattening the area into a smooth surface, yet fingerprints could still be seen.

Now, those once high-and-mighty figures eagerly examined the fingerprints, even fighting over them, excitedly discussing.

Their earlier pleasantries had clearly been pent-up anticipation.

"Aha! Now I understand!" Shen Shuibei exclaimed, realizing.

"Those with profound cultivation possess a Dao resonance. They're after the Grand Diviner's fingerprints!" Shen Shuibei explained.

For sixth, seventh, and eighth-Rank cultivators, a fingerprint from the Grand Diviner was an invaluable resource, perhaps a lifetime's worth of opportunities.

Yet, they feared offending the Grand Diviner, so they brought Li Qi along for protection.

Li Qi smiled bitterly, realizing they weren't just sycophants but had ulterior motives. He had been unwittingly drawn into this.

Sighing at his lack of knowledge, he decided to salvage the situation.

"...Forget it. Now that they're here, might as well benefit. Shen lady, as a fifth-Rank cultivator, aren't you interested in examining the fingerprint?"

"Unnecessary. The Grand Diviner's cultivation is weaker than Lady Luo Fu Niangniang's, whose Dao resonance I've studied extensively. This fingerprint offers little value to me."

Shen Shuibei explained that for figures like Lady Luo Fu Niangniang or the unnamed Grand Diviner, their existence could alter reality. Even a fragment of their essence, like a fingerprint, carried immense Dao resonance, beneficial to lower-ranked cultivators.

For officials and the governor aligned with Wu Dao, the fingerprint was highly valuable.

But for Shen Shuibei, a Xuanmen orthodox disciple, it held no significance.

It was like owls competing for dead mice while phoenixes feasted on refined fruits—a stark difference in levels.