From Humble Servant to Eternal Emperor
Chapter 400

Heart Like Stubborn Stone, Raising the Heart Furnace, Thunder and Fire Collide, a Willow Grows Without Intent!

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The Sole-Self Heart Technique" is a rare and unparalleled skill in this world. Li Xian, through deep Dongran Lake and tempering amidst life and death, reshaped his heart and meridians, comprehended the true essence of this skill, and embarked on the path of uniqueness.

With the Major Accomplishment of mental techniques, the heart resonates, and the sensation is indescribable. Li Xian's "Heart-Strengthening Tremor" is even more powerful. He punches into the air while simultaneously unleashing the Heart-Strengthening Tremor. Internally, it is like a raging wave, like a falling meteor, like a collapsing mountain—the force is so fierce that it is hard to put into words.

In an instant, the force of the shock intensified by seventy percent. Between Li Xian's use of the Great Luo Saber Technique, Iron-Copper Body, Heavenly Thunder Finger, he simultaneously unleashed the "Heart-Strengthening Tremor," unleashing a burst of killing power that was unstoppable!

With the breakthrough in the "Follow Your Heart" skill, the effectiveness of martial arts has increased significantly, and the Mind-Intent Transmission can reach even further.

The Intent Infusion and intention has a myriad of wonderful applications. When Li Xian Intent Infusion an empty space, it is as if he were punching out with his heart. This "punch power" surpasses the violent punches of ordinary martial artists, and is unpredictable and mysterious.

Without using hands or feet, he defeated his enemy in mid-air. How formidable! Even a martial artist of the Third Realm, unaware of the profound mysteries of mental cultivation, would find it difficult to perceive. Moreover, the Intent Infusion became increasingly free, capable of unleashing a torrent of energy or focusing it on a tiny point.

He leaped into a new world. The meaning of [Heart-Protecting Divine Intent] was even richer, lingering in his heart invisibly. Even if Li Xian did not consciously concentrate his intent, [Heart-Protecting Divine Intent] could still protect and nourish his heart.

Li Xian sighed, "If I had mastered the Major Accomplishment mental cultivation before Dongran Lake, why would I have endured this long? Everything would have been much easier then."

The mysteries of mental cultivation go beyond this.

Li Xian comprehended the special characteristic [Heart Like Stubborn Stone], which made his heart meridian as hard as metal for an instant. Even if ordinary swords pierced his chest, they might not be able to damage his heart meridian.

Furthermore, Li Xian cultivates the "Waning Sun Blood-Draining Sword," which contains Heartfire within his heart, constantly refining his blood and qi. He also possesses the "Heart Like Stubborn Stone" characteristic. His heart meridian is like a bronze cauldron, with a furnace fire inside, constantly refining his blood essence.

Ordinary people would quickly become blood deficient and depleted after such tempering. But Li Xian had perfected the "Five Organs Purge-Turbidity Revive-Yang Scripture"Perfection, and his blood was always extremely abundant. After being tempered by the "Heart Furnace" for a long time, his blood quality became stronger and purer, and his deficiency was resolved.

The two characteristics combine. Li Xian's blood is bright red, like lead and mercury, both are pure essence. This, in turn, enhances the body's strength, reflexes, and...

Both physical and mental strength are enhanced. If Li Xian did not have the "Five Organs Purge-Turbidity Revive-Yang Scripture", it would be very difficult to predict whether this "Heart Furnace" would be good or bad.

It is said that the "Five Organs Purge-Turbidity Revive-Yang Scripture" truly deserves its reputation as the pure Yang fundamental principle. Although its effects are simple, it is the basic skill, the fundamental scripture, and the foundation. Li Xian once practiced the "Blood-Spitting Canon," and such characteristics also help this scripture manifest its extraordinary properties!

In martial arts, a single move can affect the whole body. Combining unique characteristics results in countless variations within the body. Li Xian, by chance, established the "Heart Furnace."

"Heavenly Thunder Finger" involves the Chest-Drum Thunder Resonance. Li Xian's mental cultivation has reached its Major Accomplishment, Heart Like Stubborn Stone. When Heavenly Thunder Finger, he can even generate "Thunder Sound Furnace Crash". He uses "Chest-Drum Thunder Resonance" to shake his own heart meridian.

It has the flavor of "thunder striking fire" and "thunder striking Heartfire". In an instant, it can be as thunderous and fiery as thunder, intimidating villains and resounding through the sky. The Heavenly Thunder Finger contains "four killing finger styles". Relying on "Chest-Drum Thunder Resonance", it has considerable killing power. When the finger is extended, Thunder Sound sounds will resound, and lightning will swirl around the finger.

Now, the killing power was amplified, with raging fire added to the already intense Astral Thunder. Li Xian instantly extended his finger, his fingertip accompanied by lightning and flames, making the killing power even greater. The evolution of martial arts was truly astounding.

The more Li Xian delves into the path of martial arts, the more deeply he becomes immersed in its mysteries. The Earth Profound mysterious, and so is the human body. He explores the endless mysteries of martial arts, searching for the secrets of heaven and earth.

After further comprehending the characteristics of [Heaven-Piercing Intent], Li Xian practiced "Archery" and comprehended "Intent-Qi". Later, he cultivated "Sole-Self Heart Technique" and comprehended the wonderful use of "Mind and Intent".

The two are similar, yet different. Li Xian rose from poverty, making steady progress with lofty aspirations. My Sole-Self Heart Technique varies from person to person, while Li Xian, though physically dormant, harbors soaring ambitions.

Thus, he comprehended the "Heaven-Piercing Intent." When this will is unleashed, Intent-Qi soars to the heavens, increasing one's power by thirty percent, as if piercing the sky. If the opponent cannot withstand it, their hands will tremble and their mind will be in disarray, first becoming weak and fearful, making it difficult to resist.

All the changes are left unsaid.

Possessing unique characteristics, its mysteries are boundless.

Li Xian's status and martial arts have both greatly improved. He is doubly happy, yet he remains calm and composed. Heaven Rewards Diligence; he has gained what he has put in. There is no need to be overly excited or agitated. Whether it is gain or loss, he should take it in stride.

Now, Yao Yin helped Li Xian become Jade Citizen. Suddenly, she felt a craving and remembered Li Xian's cooking. Although the ingredients were ordinary, they were a rare delicacy in Jade City. Several days after returning to her residence, she had her servants cook it. The Yao Family chef had unique skills and could cook something similar, which was also delicious. But it was still—lacking in flavor.

He then followed Li Xian back to his residence and waited for a delicious meal.

Li Xian clearly distinguished between gratitude and resentment, and felt grateful in his heart. He knew that good people and true friends were hard to find. He already regarded Yao Yin as a friend and would repay her kindness in the future, so he made sure to treat her to a lavish meal.

He then spent his own money to buy fresh vegetables, meat, river fish, seafood, and mountain delicacies from the market. Spending several taels of silver on this was undeniably extravagant. He planned to cook ten elaborate dishes, which, along with wine, would surely allow him to drink to his heart's content.

Yao Yin knew Li Xian was short of money, and seeing his generosity, she was gratified, thinking she hadn't helped the wrong person or made the wrong friend. She thought, "This was just a small favor for me. With his abilities and skills, even No-Self Aspect, he can surely find another fortuitous opportunity and a way out. If all else fails, he can leave Jade City and still make a name for himself. I should treat him with sincerity and less calculation, and consider him just a friend."

In a moment of joy, I reflected on my life's experiences: elders, siblings, comrades, fellow students—so many, but what I lacked was a true "friend."

Seeing that Li Xian was very busy and wanted to treat her so well, she accepted it without hesitation. She put her hands on her hips, watched Li Xian work, and chatted about trivial matters. Li Xian was meticulous in entertaining his friends, so he let Yao Yin play by herself.

Feeling resentful and bored, Yao Yin wandered around the herb garden, admiring the scenery. She recognized all kinds of medicinal herbs. When the young herb boys working in the fields saw her, they all stopped what they were doing and bowed respectfully.

She quickly grew tired of watching, so she returned to Li Xian's courtyard. Raising an eyebrow, she picked up a wooden spear and casually performed a set of "Overlord Shadow-Leaving Spear." Her movements were graceful, but her spear technique was extraordinary. This was a martial art of the Yao Clan Lineage, exquisite and unparalleled.

Taking advantage of this free time, she practiced several sets of Swordsmanship. However, her mind was not calm enough, and she felt slightly tired, so she wandered around the courtyard, pondering Li Xian's residence. She had never lived in such a rough residence before, and she was quite curious.

Various questions arise, such as "Where do you bathe?" and "Where do you go into seclusion to practice martial arts?"—to clarify these questions and to find out where Li Xian is hiding.

She then went to the bedroom. A mischievous glint flashed in her eyes as she entered and looked around. Although the bedroom was small, it was clean, tidy, and quite tasteful.

Yao Yin thought to herself, "These grown men shouldn't have anything to hide. Does he usually sleep here?" Sitting on the bed, she gently stroked the bedding, noticing its rough texture; it was made of coarse cloth.

Unaware of her surroundings, she was surprisingly curious about a man's daily life.

There was a bookcase by the bed, neatly arranged with books. The desk had writing brushes, paper, ink, and other inexpensive items, but they were usable. Yao Yin stroked her chin, her gaze wandering over the bookshelves.

Li Xian had just finished cooking a delicious dish of river delicacies and brought it to the dining table in the hall when he heard strange noises coming from the room. He said helplessly, "Miss Yao, there shouldn't be anything in my little house that you'd covet. What are you looking for?"

Yao Yin said, "How strange, how strange--"

Li Xian asked, "What's so strange?" Yao Yin, looking at the bookshelf, replied, "You don't like women?"

Li Xian asked curiously, "What do you mean?" He thought to himself, "While I, Li Xian, may not be a virtuous gentleman, I am certainly not without lust."

Yao Yin said, "Your bedside reading materials are far too serious. Besides medical classics, travelogues, and poetry collections, is there anything else? Or have you hidden them away?"

Li Xian thought to himself, "So they wanted to pry into my private affairs." He feigned ignorance and asked, "What else?"

Yao Yin said, "They are all erotic books, such as ' Fragrant Plum Record ' and 'Apricot Spring Red' —these kinds of books are very popular—" Suddenly realizing she had let something slip, she angrily said, "So, you dare to set me up?!"

Li Xian laughed, "Didn't Miss Yao say so herself? It seems Miss Yao is already very familiar with these books. I didn't expect Miss Yao to have such a love for literature, tsk tsk tsk—Miss Yao appears quiet on the surface, but is she perhaps quite—"

His gaze wandered, intrigued.

Yao Yin blushed slightly, feeling embarrassed. Being naturally vain, she retorted, "That's bizarre and nonsensical! How could I possibly look at such a book? It's an eyesore! Utterly disgusting! If you continue spouting nonsense, I won't be so polite!"

Li Xian laughed and said, "Alright, alright, alright, I was just talking nonsense. But after Miss Yao mentioned it, I've become curious about books like Fragrant Plum Record and Apricot Spring Red. Indeed—I've only recently regained my freedom, and although I have some spare money, it's not much. I haven't had a chance to read them yet, so I'll go to the bookstore tomorrow and ask about them."

Yao Yin blushed and said, "You—you mustn't ask! These kinds of books are not for gentlemen!" Li Xian slapped the table and said happily, "What a coincidence, I just happen to be no gentleman."

Yao Yin stomped her foot and said, "You're going to be the death of me!" Her gaze darted away. It turned out that Jade City was prosperous, and its calligraphy and painting Peak Mastery. Leisure books and miscellaneous books were also very popular. The sons of the Aristocratic Clan were all romantic, and Yao Yin and her close friends often read such books in private.

Romantic affairs are indispensable.

Some time ago, Yao Yin confiscated several erotic books from her younger cousins. Adopting the demeanor of an elder cousin, she scolded them severely, ordering them to take the punishment themselves and repent. Otherwise, she would tell the elders about it. The cousins were so frightened that they turned pale, cried bitterly, and begged for mercy.

But in that turn of her head, she exposed herself, which was quite embarrassing. Li Xian used this as an excuse to tease her appropriately. Then she changed the subject, invited Yao Yin to sit down, and poured her wine and served her food.

The table was laden with dishes, an incredibly abundant feast. River delicacies, seafood, and Li Xian specialties were all on display, each with its own elegant name, creating a veritable "gathering of heroes." The enticing aromas were enough to Human Food.

Yao Yin tasted several mouthfuls and couldn't help but praise it. The atmosphere of this small house is quite tantalizing and unforgettable. Good wine is paired with good food. Although Yao Yin comes from a noble family, he has a chance to live in the world.

With a flick of her wrist, she shouted, "Fill it up!"

The two clinked glasses and drank, thus beginning their friendship. It was already night, and Li Xian, drinking under the moon, suddenly thought of his many brothers and friends in Qingning County Martial Commandant Hall. He thought to himself, "When I am fully capable, I will definitely Qingning County to visit them."

One sip of wine, and all thoughts vanished.

After several rounds of drinks...

Yao Yin said, "Li Xian, with your abilities, I'm afraid you won't remain a healer forever, will you?"

Li Xian truthfully replied, "Although I intend to make a name for myself through medicine, and I am very willing to practice medicine and treat illnesses, I know that the Miraculous Healers Pavilion is not a place for me to stay for long. You are my friend, and I do not wish to hide this from you."

Yao Yin said, "You're quite honest. If that's the case, then it's just as I expected."

Li Xian said, "Speaking of this matter, I must punish myself with three cups. I cannot stay long because of Master Yao's kindness in helping me. I feel somewhat sorry for him!" Then he drank heartily.

Yao Yin laughed and said, "That's easy to say. My Miraculous Healers Pavilion won't miss you, nor will it make much difference if you're here. If you're willing to rise in rank, who will stop you? Uncle Yao has a good temper and is a kind-hearted man in the Lineage. Otherwise, you wouldn't have gone far in the medical field, and he would never have hindered you. But now I'm increasingly curious about how far you can go. If you become successful and wealthy in the future, don't forget me!"

Li Xian laughed, "Hahaha, of course, of course! Let's not forget each other when we become rich and powerful! Brother Yao, I'll toast you three cups!" Yao Yin, feigning a chivalrous air, replied righteously, "Brother Li, I'll return the favor with three cups!"

After a good drink, the two looked at each other and burst into laughter.

Yao Yin's laughter rang like silver bells, but she suddenly became serious and said, "A man with ambition should do good. Who who comes to my Jade City doesn't want to seek a better life, a better reputation, wealth, power, or a higher position? There's no need to hide it. Now that you're Jade Citizen, you've taken your first step. From now on, you must be cautious with every step you take. Without the help of your Lineage, it's like walking a tightrope over a precipice. One wrong step and you're doomed, with no way back! As your friend, I need to remind you of one important point."

Li Xian humbly inquired, "What is the key point? Please explain."

Yao Yin's beautiful eyes scanned Li Xian's face, and she said, "Tsk tsk tsk, I, Yao Yin, am not usually swayed by appearances. But I am truly curious, how can anyone in the world be so handsome? What I want to talk about is this."

Yao Yin said, "If you truly aspire to advancement, then you must do so through your own efforts. This unusual and handsome appearance will only cause trouble. Besides—the gentlemen of Jade City have peculiar tastes, and many are homosexual. When I was looking for you just now, I often heard the people of Tongji Ward talking about a handsome young doctor at the Miraculous Healers Pavilion."

"If this isn't stopped, it will surely spread far and wide. Who knows what trouble it might cause? You've just become Jade Citizen, your reputation hasn't yet taken hold. There's some buzz in Tongji Ward, but once you show your talent, you'll definitely attract attention. Therefore—you should decide as soon as possible how you will present yourself to the world."

Li Xian said, "Does Miss Yao mean for me to conceal my face?"

Li Xian frowned, also having this concern. He thought to himself, "My unusual appearance has indeed attracted a lot of gossip. Sometimes it can be an asset, and sometimes it can be a liability. What Yao Yin said is also what I've been thinking. But how can one wear a mask for long? There will always be a time when one's true face is revealed. What use is temporary concealment?" He then shared his thoughts with her.

Yao Yin laughed and said, "You've misunderstood Jade City. You haven't been in Jade City long, so it's normal that you're unaware of this. Jade City is the confluence of three factions, a gathering place for many heroes, among whom there are many grudges that are hard to settle."

"If we were to meet in Jade City, wouldn't that disrupt my city's rules? You're new to Jade City, so it's not surprising that you don't wear a mask to cover your face. Everyone else thinks it's normal. It's like the Silver Face Guards who are in charge of city defense; everyone takes off their masks for intimidation purposes."

Even if you become an "official" and meet your superior, if your reason is appropriate, your superior will not force you to remove your mask.

"You are now Jade Citizen, and have received the Jade Token." That token contains a drop of your Essence Blood. Simply wear the token, and the resonance of your blood will prove your identity. Though the mask conceals your face, your identity is clear at a glance. Once your position is secure, others will find it difficult to challenge you, and you will have no fear of being tripped up. Then there will be no need for concealment."

Yao Yin sincerely suggested that, after returning to her clan for several days, she had heard occasional gossip within the Yao Clan Lineage. It was rumored that there was a handsome doctor in Tongji Ward, a man of good reputation. However, it was increasingly rumored that some in the clan were jealous and spoke ill of him, saying things like, "Such a person, possessing only good looks, is truly pathetic." "The Tongji Ward, Hu Fang, is said to be a man from Wu Mo. This man is fond of men; if you fall for his advances, hehe, your end will be tragic." "How can we men rely on our looks to gain fame? Aren't we just like women?" "Ridiculous, ridiculous."

Yao Yin knew that Li Xian had emerged from the "Deathwish Valley" and fought three hundred men—what courage he possessed! Gaining fame through his looks was not his true desire. Hearing various accounts, she recalled the saying, "A common man is innocent, but possessing a treasure is a crime," and pondered, "If I had power and influence, I might very well want to keep such a male concubine, let alone others. I grew up in Jade City, and I know all too well that Jade City has many filthy and depraved affairs."

Although their relationship was brief, Yao Yin knew that Li Xian Blood Qi. While his methods were impressive, if he were to suddenly kill someone, he would inevitably face a lot of trouble. It was possible that all his plans would come to naught, and he would have to return to the Deathwish Valley.

He then used the wine as a pretext to remind Li Xian, and also mentioned the rumors about "Wu Mo" and "Hu Fang". Li Xian remained calm and pondered carefully. The situation in Jade City was complicated, and those with immense power controlled life and death. Wearing a mask could not only hide his true face for a while, but also help him lie low and climb up step by step.

He thought to himself, "I have no interest in concealing my true appearance. Elsewhere, my Second Martial Realm, which is quite formidable. If anyone dares to provoke me, I should be able to protect myself. If they press me too hard, I can go on a killing spree and then find a way to escape. But now—there is Commandery Princess Anyang watching me like a hawk. That wretched woman has caused me immense suffering. Even the Silver-Faced Lang couldn't escape being killed when he left the city and was executed by slow slicing. Now that I have gained some influence in Jade City, I should indeed prioritize stability."

"Furthermore—with strength and the means, one can naturally climb the ranks. Judging from Yao Yin's words, whether or not one covers their face is not an obstacle. My medical practice these past few days has already violated Master Su Fuyou's instructions. Practicing medicine without a mask has indeed caused trouble. Could it be that Master Su foresaw this and instructed me to wear a mask while practicing medicine? If so, then it is precisely in accordance with Master's instructions."

He immediately thought to himself with satisfaction, "Alas, he's too handsome; it's truly a nuisance." He readily agreed, saying, "I, Li Xian, don't care about others' opinions. But they are right about one thing: we men should make our names through our strength!"

Yao Yin's eyes gleamed with admiration. He raised his wine bowl and said, "Excellent! A toast to a true man!"

Li Xian said, "No!" He paused, then added, "It should be for friends." Yao Yin was delighted. They clinked their wine bowls together, and as the wine entered their stomachs, they tasted a sense of carefree chivalry.

From that day onward, Li Xian changed his seat and wore a bronze mask. The design was simple, but it was enough to conceal his face.

As a result, the number of patients seeking medical treatment decreased significantly, making the life more leisurely.

The first and second floors of the Miraculous Healers Pavilion are open for patients, and there are many doctors there. The only one wearing a mask is Li Xian.

However, Yao Baishun and Yao Yin, through communication, intended to help Li Xian conceal his whereabouts and disguise his appearance. Furthermore, due to the Li Xian incident, some doctors at the Miraculous Healers Pavilion were indeed jealous of each other, and they seized this opportunity to establish a new rule, ordering all Hall Physician medicine. All the doctors agreed and wore masks to their shifts.

Thus, all the doctors wore masks to conceal their faces. Li Xian had also changed his position, intentionally hiding his identity.

He naturally blended into the crowd, his voice and traces concealed. Li Xian practiced medicine in this manner for several days when he suddenly heard a commotion at the door. Hu Fang, the ward head of Tongji Ward, led several constables on their way to their shift and passed by the Miraculous Healers Pavilion. Under the guise of routine business, they inspected Miraculous Healers Pavilion.

Several times along the way, he snatched the doctor's mask and scrutinized his face.

Li Xian, standing at a distance, observed everything and thought to himself, "It seems Yao Yin was Wu Cuo. The more materialistic a place is, the more filthy and corrupt it becomes. I need to strengthen myself as soon as possible, and I must not drift with the tide."

Hu Fang was a crony of the powerful figure "Wu Mo," and his conduct was despicable. He enjoyed recruiting handsome men and beautiful women to present to his superiors in order to curry favor and gain advancement.

Hu Fang, having gained nothing, stubbornly refused to leave like a rogue. Yao Baishun intervened and drove him away. Although Hu Fang had some connections, he dared not offend the Yao Family. After hesitating for a moment, he could only leave resentfully. Li Xian watched coldly, continuing his medical practice as usual. He concealed his face, rising early to work and finishing late in the evening. He treated patients, honed his martial arts skills. His life was monotonous yet fulfilling.

Yao Yin often asked for food. Li Xian would go to great lengths and go to great lengths to prepare a grand feast to entertain her. However, after several days, Yao Yin began to rarely appear due to an important matter within the clan.

And so, a month passed in the blink of an eye.

During this month, Li Xian diligently treated patients and saved lives, actively seeking out difficult and complicated cases. Although his medical skills were profound and his medical knowledge was superb, there was still room for improvement. Knowing that Yao Baishun's medical skills were even better than his own, he often went to learn from him.

Most of the Miraculous Healers Pavilion are ordinary patients, but martial arts patients are also frequently seen. The situation of martial arts patients is more complicated.

Imagine a young martial artist who has learned martial arts from a martial arts school. He gets into an argument with someone and fights, and is struck in the waist and abdomen by a palm. At first, he only feels a slight stinging pain and doesn't pay much attention to it.

In the following days, his urination was bloody. His hands and feet were numb from time to time, and he was covered in cold sweat at night, making it difficult to fall asleep. He felt listless when he got up in the morning. Unable to bear it any longer, he came to the Miraculous Healers Pavilion for treatment.

The palm strike found on his abdomen was the "Demonic Wind Palm." Although the palm strike was light, it contained a strange and evil wind that invaded his body, destroying and weakening his internal organs and severely damaging his body.

The method of curing the disease requires not only a solid understanding of medical principles but also the ability to dispel the evil wind within the body. Yao Baishun personally treated the patient, while Li Xian observed and learned from his experience, absorbing the lessons learned. He benefited greatly from this experience.

Where there is martial arts, there is medicine. The path of martial arts extends as far as medicine. Li Xian practices medicine without regard for personal gain or loss, relying solely on his thirst for knowledge.

He secretly honed his "Ghost-Vein Four Absolutes" skills, mastering them with increasing ease.

He then used his contribution points to study the medical classics at the Miraculous Healers Pavilion. His understanding of martial arts and medicine both improved. Li Xian was naturally studious and, knowing his shortcomings, worked hard to make up for them.

During the month or so that Li Xian participated in a free meal. He got to drink a mouthful of Essence Soup. After the soup entered his stomach and was strengthened by the Consumption, he gained twenty-three strands of the Heaven and Earth Essence. Seven strands dissipated, and sixteen strands were retained.

Although it was a drop in the ocean, there was still something to gain. Li Xian secretly calculated. "If I'm lucky, I can freeload three times a month. If I'm even luckier, I can get a coin's worth of fine meat. After Consumption to strengthen myself, I can get more than fifty strands of the Heaven and Earth Essence each month."

It might take several months to barely make progress.

"There are indeed many opportunities in Jade City, but I didn't come here to Jade City. Freeloading now is just a temporary measure."

After a month of dormancy, on this day, Li Xian's fortuitous opportunity quietly arrives!

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