Yipin

"How did you cultivate so quickly?"

After his initial delight, Mysterious Herb Daoist grew a little puzzled.

Fang Qing answered honestly, "When I obtained that Sky Scripture, I also received a few pinecones. After I ate them, my cultivation advanced incredibly quickly."

Mysterious Herb Daoist questioned him in detail, then sighed wistfully. "Heaven and earth's spirit fruits go to those destined to receive them. But the Causality weighing on you has grown heavier still."

He, too, knew something of his sect's plans and the links between Causality, fortune, and merit. That was why, even if Fang Qing placed the Wave-Treading Immortal Scripture before him, he would not spare it a glance.

"We who cultivate immortality seek only a lifetime of freedom. Nothing else matters."

Fang Qing's reply was calm, but a keen edge showed on his face.

"Haha! Well said."

Mysterious Herb Daoist laughed, then pondered for a moment. "But since you've completed Meridian Unblocking, the next stage of cultivation presents a few difficulties..."

Without waiting for Fang Qing to answer, he explained, "Our sect's methods begin with the Supreme Induction Chapter, drawing Qi into the body. After that, cultivation methods and swordsmanship become one: practicing the sword is practicing cultivation. Mastering the Lesser Five-Elements Sword Art opens the twelve primary meridians, while the Four Symbols Sword Art focuses on the eight extraordinary meridians. Once you've perfected the Four Symbols Sword Art, you'll have completed Meridian Unblocking and can use the Greater Three Powers Sword Art to absorb Qi of Earth Sha. Then you cultivate the Two Principles Sword Technique and choose between Profound Lesser-Yin Astral Force and Primordial Lesser-Yang Astral Force..."

"And where are you in your cultivation, Master?" Fang Qing rolled his eyes inwardly, but asked anyway.

"Your master is no great talent, but I've devoted myself to