The Road to Core Formation

Inside his cave abode, Fang Shu repeatedly went over all his preparations, confirming that nothing had been overlooked. All that remained was to wait for the sect's summons before heading into the secret realm.

"Still, before that, there is one more thing I need to do."

His gaze shifted. He immediately rose, straightened his attire, then fled from his cave abode and headed straight for Venom Hall.

What he needed to do was pay a visit to his master—Immortal Long Gu.

Ever since he had returned to the mountain last time, Immortal Long Gu had paid him no heed, as though she had forgotten him entirely. Even now that the date for the secret realm's opening had been set, she had yet to send him any message.

But Fang Shu had not forgotten. His master had personally said that she needed him to gather medicinal herbs in the secret realm to treat her injuries.

As he hurried toward Venom Hall, he mused inwardly, I wonder whether Master Long will grant me a few more life-saving treasures this time.

Although he already possessed three quasi-Foundation Establishment dharma artifacts and believed he could even hinder a Foundation Establishment Immortal to some degree, no one ever found themselves with too many treasures.

Not long after.

Fang Shu arrived at Venom Hall. He once again glanced at the screen wall outside its entrance and found that it still bore only stone carvings, with no sign of the Mangy Snake that had once been there.

After having someone announce his arrival, Fang Shu received Immortal Long Gu's summons by dusk that same day.

"This disciple, Fang Shu, pays respects to Master."

He hurried into the hall and immediately bowed deeply to the withered, gaunt figure within.

A chill divine sense immediately rose from her body,