Stone Statue at the Bottom of the Valley

The spiritual energy on this mountain was vast and dense, far surpassing that of ordinary mountains and wilderness.

The birds and beasts here were gentle and keenly aware. Even when they saw strangers, they did not startle or flee, merely tilting their heads to study the group.

After several days of surveying the mountain, Shen Hui had formed a plan.

The terrace where they had settled was broad, backed by a cliff and facing a sea of clouds. It was perfect for a sect entrance.

Following the mountain's contours, they could carve tier upon tier of bluestone steps, winding upward to the main hall and cultivation grounds.

There was no need to level the mountainside. They could build halls and residences along the sheer cliffs.

Buildings, terraces, and pavilions would hang at staggered heights along the cliff, hidden among pines and clouds.

Above, they would meet the light of the heavens; below, they would overlook the sea of clouds. The place would have both the quiet solemnity of the Daoist tradition and the airy grace of a floating Spirit Mountain.

But one concern remained unresolved in his mind.

The mountain hovered a hundred zhang above the ground, unconnected to the earth's veins. Set apart from the mortal world, it was wondrous beyond measure.

If he put the mountain into his gourd without understanding why it floated, and the whole mountain came crashing down, it would be too late for regrets.

To be safe, he had to investigate thoroughly and leave nothing to chance.

His mind made up, Shen Hui turned to the three beside him:

"Patriarch, rest here with the others. I'll go down to the bottom of the valley and take a look."

At his words, Lu Huan immediately rose from beside the stream.

"I'm coming with you!"

Hu