Chapter 149 - Arc 11: The Sects Grand Competition | Chapter 149: Luo Yao

Chapter 149 - Arc 11: The Sect's Grand Competition | Chapter 149: Luo Yao

Translator: Lynn

As Luo Yao’s gaze met Xu Ziqing’s, a mutual exchange of looks took place.

On this particular day, Luo Yao donned a regal blue robe, a jade crown perched upon his head, and a jade belt cinched at his waist. He exuded an air of calmness, yet there lingered a subtle trace of arrogance about him. His attire, demeanor, and overall presence resembled that of a young scion from a prominent, worldly family. Interestingly, a hint of restraint flickered in his eyes, adding a layer of complexity to his character.

It was worth noting that Luo Yao embodied a rare blend of composure and nobility, a demeanor more imposing than haughty. Even Su Xin, the young leader of the Loose Cultivator Alliance, did not possess the same curious combination of poise and noblesse that Luo Yao did.

Upon gazing upon Luo Yao’s visage, Xu Ziqing found himself increasingly drawn to him.

However, Luo Yao maintained his calm composure and offered a slight bow to both individuals. “I am Disciple Luo Yao, paying my respects to the master of Xiaolu Peak,” he addressed Yun Lie before turning his gaze to Xu Ziqing. “I also extend my greetings to fellow Daoist Xu.”

Xu Ziqing’s eyes subtly shifted.

The word “disciple” caught his attention, and he couldn’t help but be somewhat surprised.

The term “disciple residence” referred to a group of pavilions situated in the mountains near Shifang Pavilion, serving as the abodes for inner disciples. Importantly, those who dwelled in the disciple’s residence were individuals who had not yet formally taken a master.

Luo Yao’s self-identification as a disciple residing in the middle implied that he was an ordinary inner disciple, without a master, and devoid of fellow disciples. He stood alone in his cultivation path.

However, this revelation also suggested that Luo Yao likely lacked the backing of a powerful sect figure, and his motives for visiting Xiaolu Peak were unlikely to be malicious. This realization eased the tension on the peak considerably.

Yun Lie, uninterested in negotiating with outsiders, maintained his silence, simply nodding before closing his eyes.

Observing his brother’s reserved response, Xu Ziqing offered a warm smile and addressed Luo Yao. “You are most welcome, fellow Daoist. Please, have a seat.” Given Luo Yao’s foundation stage cultivation, addressing each other as “Fellow Daoist” was entirely appropriate.

Upon hearing Xu Ziqing’s invitation, Luo Yao promptly settled onto the ground.

After all, Yun Lie’s disposition and cultivation were well-established, and Luo Yao paid little heed to his demeanor. He hadn’t come to Xiaolu Peak for Yun Lie, but rather for the individual currently addressing him.

Observing Luo Yao’s composed demeanor, Xu Ziqing offered a friendly smile and inquired, “Dear Daoist Luo, what brings you here?”

However, Luo Yao did not immediately respond to the question, as his attention had been captivated by something else.

“Is this... the ‘Fuwen Tongfa’?” Luo Yao’s voice quivered slightly as his gaze remained fixed on the ancient black leather book before Xu Ziqing. His aura momentarily surged with excitement. “Fellow Daoist Xu, that’s precisely why I’ve come!”

Gradually, the look of reverence in Luo Yao’s eyes gave way to disappointment, then despair. Without access to this general knowledge, his progress in talisman research would be severely hindered.

However, Xu Ziqing’s voice offered a glimmer of hope. He said, “Nonetheless, I have a proposal that may satisfy both of us. I wonder, Fellow Daoist Luo, if you would be interested?”

Luo Yao’s eyes lit up. “What is this proposal? Please, tell me!”

Xu Ziqing smiled gently. “Although I cannot lend you the general knowledge, if you’re willing to study it together with me, there won’t be any obstacles.”

Anxiously, Luo Yao asked, “You mean, you’d like to teach me?”

Xu Ziqing shook his head. “Not teach you, but learn alongside you.”

Luo Yao grasped the implication. “So, you’re suggesting...”

Xu Ziqing explained with a smile, “When you wish to delve into the knowledge and mastery of this discipline, simply come to me. I am also in the early stages of exploring the realm of talismans and would appreciate your insights. If a fellow Daoist like you provides guidance, I would welcome it.”

This arrangement seemed to offer a compromise. While Luo Yao couldn’t possess the general knowledge, having access to it for reference was still valuable. As for Xu Ziqing’s conditions, they appeared quite reasonable.

Luo Yao, not inherently selfish, felt that repaying the favor with advice was entirely fair. However, his primary concern was that once he became engrossed in studying talisman patterns, he might lose track of time, making it challenging to adhere to a set schedule for daily interactions with Xu Ziqing. If Xu Ziqing were required to bring the book to his residence, Luo Yao feared it might seem unreasonable.

Luo Yao candidly shared his concerns with Xu Ziqing, prompting Xu Ziqing to glance at Yun Lie and say, “Shixiong...”

In his opinion, it would be more practical for Luo Yao to stay on Xiaolu Peak. Otherwise, the daily back-and-forth journey would become quite taxing, especially given the additional sword practice he had in mind. However, he was well aware of his senior brother’s aloof demeanor and aversion to outsiders. He didn’t want to impose on Yun Lie’s solitude, disrupting his tranquility.

Yun Lie, noticing Xu Ziqing’s unspoken concerns, responded with a casual remark, “You can accommodate him, but he should stay on the mountainside.”

This unexpected consideration from Yun Lie touched Xu Ziqing, and he expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Yun Shixiong.”

Yun Lie then closed his eyes once more, resuming his meditation on honing his sword intent.

However, Xu Ziqing turned to Luo Yao and inquired, “What do you think, Fellow Daoist Luo?”

Luo Yao was more than content with the arrangement and promptly nodded, saying, “Then I will defer to your kindness, Daoist Xu.”

This consensus brought a sense of harmony to the atmosphere on Xiaolu Peak, where two distinct individuals with their unique pursuits were now united by a shared passion for the mysteries of the Dao.

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