"This was one of our ancestor's former residences, a place where he entrusted his feelings to mountains and rivers beyond the mortal world, entertained dear friends, and contemplated the great Dao of painting."
Once all hundred-odd cultivators had entered the secluded valley, Wu Xingzhi announced clearly, "Our ancestor established a Painting Refinement trial here. It asks nothing of cultivation or background, only attainment in the Painting Dao."
"Fellow Daoists, whether you have come to participate or to observe, you all share a destined connection with our ancestor and the Painting Dao."
Countless cultivators had now flocked to Fufeng Commandery upon hearing that the Daoist Heir's Former Residence had appeared.
Yet only these hundred-odd people had actually been able to enter the secluded valley.
"After entering the grounds, your cultivation may be temporarily sealed, solely to ensure fairness in the Painting Refinement."
"Opportunities and trials therein will depend on your painting skills, knowledge, and true hearts. Observers must also obey the rules. You may watch closely and quietly contemplate, but you must not interfere with the Painting Refinement."
"Now."
Wu Xingzhi stepped aside to clear the path through the valley entrance and gestured invitingly. "Please, fellow Daoists, enter the grounds with me."
Only after this Golden Core cultivator of the Wu Clan said this did Foundation Establishment Realm cultivators like Lin Qing finally feel reassured.
Those chosen as masters by the Ink Jades ranged from Qi Refining to Foundation Establishment and Golden Core, spanning every realm.
Clearly, to Senior Wu Daoxuan, everyone below the Golden Core Realm, as well as those within it, counted as juniors.
Without sealing their cultivation, who knew what methods those Golden Core Realm cultivators might possess to influence the Painting Refinement's outcome?
Still, most Golden Core Realm cultivators present were probably accompanying others as observers.
Song