Three Years Later (Happy January 6th)

"Is it Daoist Tingyan?"

The voice of the Northmont Blacktiger rang out.

This address startled Beishan Baiwei, who turned to look at Ji An, his eyes filled with disbelief.

"Daoist Tingyan?! He—he's the Two-Clawed Yinglong Guard who slew several Primordial Spirit Demon Kings in the Prison Mountain Great Marsh over the past four years?!"

In an instant, all the information about this Yinglong Guard flashed through Beishan Baiwei's mind: It is said that Daoist Tingyan not only fully comprehended the Thunderfire Minor Dao, but there are also rumors that he has also comprehended the Gale Minor Dao. By the way, Daoist Tingyan is said to be a member of the Ji Clan of Yan Mountain!

His infamous reputation had already spread like wildfire throughout Anchan City.

Beishan Baiwei never expected that the "Daoist Tingyan" whom his father personally came out of the mansion to welcome and whom he held in awe of was actually his elder brother Ji An, who had come out of Yan Mountain with Ji Ning!

He remembered clearly that when he first met Ji Ning, the other party did mention that he had a twin brother who was born on the same day as him.

But who would have thought that this elder brother was actually the renowned Primordial Spirit Daoist "Tingyan" of Anchan Commandery?

Of course, when Beishan Baiwei first met Ji Ning, Ji An's reputation in Anchan City was not as widespread as it is today.

Ji An remained calm, showing no surprise that Northmont Blacktiger could recognize him.

As a strong contender for the title of Marquis of Andu, and fortunately possessing Pang Fu's intelligence network, it would be strange if Fang couldn't even detect the identity of a newly Primordial Spirit.

Moreover, he hadn't deliberately concealed his aura, so it was only natural that the Northmont Blacktiger would sense the fluctuations in his Primordial Spirit and come out to greet him.

"That is indeed me." Ji An nodded slightly. "I've come mainly to accompany my younger brother Ji Ning, to pay a visit to Brother Baiwei."

Northmont Blacktiger immediately laughed loudly, "I see. It's quite a rare fate that Baiwei is able to meet your younger brother. Since Fellow Daoist Tingyan has arrived, why not come into the mansion for a chat? That way, I can show him some hospitality."

Such a young Primordial Spirit Daoist, who has comprehended an entire minor Minor Dao, possesses potential and value sufficient to warrant that this powerful figure from the Northmont Clan personally approach him to win him over.

In particular, they were at odds with the Northmont Yin lineage.

Northmont Yin was his greatest rival, and every move the other made was under his surveillance.

He naturally knew that Northmont Yin had tried to recruit Ji An, but was rejected and even sent people to assassinate him. However, that assassination team never returned.

Ji An hesitated for a moment, then nodded in agreement. "Very well, then I'll take my leave."

Seeing Ji An agree, Northmont Blacktiger nodded slightly, then turned to his son, who was still in shock, and said in a deep voice, "Baiwei."

"Ah? Father!" Beishan Baiwei suddenly came to his senses and hurriedly bowed in response.

"Take my nephew Ji Ning around the city. Make sure he is well taken care of and not neglected in the slightest," Northmont Blacktiger instructed.

"Yes, Father." Beishan Baiwei respectfully accepted the order, then turned to Ji Ning, "Brother Ji Ning, please."

After saying that, he pulled Ji Ning and boarded the carriage they had just come out of.

"Go to Worry-Free Grotto." As soon as he stepped onto the carriage, Beishan Baiwei instructed the maid outside.

As Beishan Baiwei led Ji Ning away in the flaming carriage, Ji An nodded slightly to Northmont Blacktiger: "Thank you for leading the way, Fellow Daoist Black Tiger."

Northmont Blacktiger stepped aside, gesturing for him to proceed. "Fellow Daoist Tingyan, please."

The two walked side by side, slowly entering the depths of the mansion, their figures quickly disappearing behind the vermilion gates.

Inside the main hall deep within the mansion, a luminous pearl hangs high from the beams, emitting a soft and warm glow.

Northmont Blacktiger sat in the main seat, while Ji An sat in the guest seat to his left.

"Fellow Daoist Tingyan," the Northmont Blacktiger spoke first, his tone tinged with admiration, "the Ji Clan of Yan Mountain has indeed produced a..."

This true dragon, in just over a decade, has already comprehended an entire minor Minor Dao; such talent is truly rare.

He shifted his tone slightly, his gaze fixed intently on Ji An: "Fellow Daoist, are you perhaps a reincarnation of an immortal?"

Ji An picked up the teacup on the table, took a small sip, neither confirming nor denying, and simply said, "Lord Beishan, you flatter me."

Northmont Blacktiger stared intently at Ji An for a moment. Seeing that the other party was unwilling to say more, he did not continue to dwell on the matter, but instead smiled and said, "Fellow Daoist, there's no need to be so modest. Do you know that since you first distinguished yourself in the Prison Mountain Great Marsh, your name has been on the watchlist of many forces in Anchan City? Especially since you rejected Northmont Yin's offer of recruitment—which saved me a lot of trouble."

He abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming solemn. "I observe that your Godfiend Body Refinement has already reached the realm of the Primordial Spirit."

To cultivate the Primordial Spirit and demonic body of the "Crimsonbright Nine Heavens Diagram" at such a young age is truly unheard of. Fellow Daoist, your future is limitless. I wonder if you would be interested in serving me? Of course, it's not that you will serve me as your master, but that we will be equals."

Clearly, even someone as powerful as Northmont Blacktiger couldn't resist extending an olive branch to Ji An in the end.

This is quite normal, after all, Ji An is Primordial Spirit demon who has cultivated the "Crimsonbright Nine Heavens Diagram", and this foundation is enough to make anyone's heart flutter.

Ji An put down his teacup, his tone calm yet firm. "Fellow Daoist Black Tiger is indeed well-informed."

As for the matter of recruitment, there's no need to mention it again—my younger brother Ji Ning and I came to Anchan City solely to help him enter the Black-White College. When I refused Northmont Yin back then, I already said that the path I, Ji An, seek is one of freedom and unrestrained ease. Therefore, I appreciate your kind intentions, fellow Daoist."

Northmont Blacktiger seemed to have anticipated Ji An's direct rejection. Instead of showing any displeasure, his eyes flashed with a hint of appreciation.

He knew that true prodigies possessed their own pride and perseverance, and that forcing them would only backfire; Northmont Yin was the best example of this.

Moreover, as long as Ji An and Northmont Yin become enemies, it will be a great thing for him.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have intervened to stop Northmont Yin from using the power of the Northmont Marquis Estate's mansion to deal with Ji An.

In the time that followed, the two did not mention the power struggles again, but instead engaged in an in-depth discussion about the concept of "Tao".

However, the more they talked, the more alarmed Northmont Blacktiger became. He discovered that Ji An's understanding of "Tao" was far deeper than he had expected.

Night deepened, Moonlight like water.

Deep within the Northmont Blacktiger, in an extremely quiet and elegant guest courtyard.

Ji An sat alone at the stone table in the courtyard, closing his eyes to rest, as if he had become a part of this Heaven and Earth.

Not long after, Beishan Baiwei's voice came from outside the courtyard.

"Brother Ji Ning, please rest here for a while. Usually, people join a sect around the twelfth lunar month. Tomorrow I will take you to Anchan Commandery..."

I've brought you the books documenting the various factions; please peruse them carefully. You can also go out for walks from time to time, listen to the discussions in the streets, and learn more about the Black-White College; it will ultimately benefit you."

Thank you, Brother Baiwei.

"It's late, so I won't disturb your rest any longer."

As the words fell, the courtyard gate was gently pushed open, and Ji Ning strode in.

"Brother," Ji Ning called softly, and sat down across the stone table.

Ji An slowly opened his eyes, looking at him gently. "You're back. How's it going at Worry-Free Grotto?"

"What an eye-opener!" Ji Ning exclaimed upon mentioning the Worry-Free Grotto. "It truly lives up to its reputation as Anchan City's premier pleasure destination. Brother Baiwei was incredibly hospitable. I even made the acquaintance of several other prominent clans there."

He paused, a hint of curiosity in his eyes, and looked at Ji An, asking, "Brother, what about you and that Lord Northmont Blacktiger— "

What did they talk about at the manor?

Ji An picked up the spirit tea on the stone table, took another sip, and said in a calm tone, "Nothing important. It's just some information about the power distribution in Anchan Commandery, the enrollment situation of the Black-White College, and—he hopes I can join his ranks."

"Recruit?" Ji Ning was slightly taken aback.

"Hmm." Ji An put down his teacup. "The struggle for the title of Marquis of Anch’an has long been brewing beneath the surface. The two heirs, Northmont Blacktiger and Northmont Yin, are like oil and water. He tried to win me over, but I refused."

Ji Ning nodded knowingly and said softly, "We really shouldn't get involved in these pointless disputes."

He always knew that his elder brother had his own ideas, so since his brother said it was nothing, then he really didn't need to worry about it too much.

Then, Ji Ning said to Ji An, "Brother Baiwei said he will send over information on the major forces in Anchan Commandery tomorrow so I can study it carefully."

Ji An nodded and said, "Yes, the Beishan family's intelligence network is much more detailed than mine. Bai Wei is a kind-hearted person, someone you can befriend. When you associate with him, just stay true to yourself."

"I understand, brother," Ji Ning replied respectfully.

Meanwhile, deep within the mansion, in a dimly lit space.

This space seemed to exist independently of the entire mansion, completely devoured by light. Only in the central area, a huge volcanic rock radiated scorching heat, becoming the sole source of light in this place.

On the fiery rocks, sitting cross-legged, was a burly, tall, bald man— Northmont Blacktiger.

He was dressed in a magnificent black robe, his aura as calm and steady as a dormant volcano, seemingly restrained, yet subtly containing the power to destroy the world.

"Whoosh"

A black serpent, over a hundred feet long, was slowly swimming around him.

This large snake was ferocious and terrifying, with venomous fangs that gleamed with a chilling light.

However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this giant serpent is not made of flesh and blood, but rather formed from pure black flames.

The black flame serpent slowly coiled around the Northmont Blacktiger, its enormous head gradually approaching, as if probing something.

"Hmm?" Northmont Blacktiger frowned slightly and suddenly opened his eyes. In an instant, Thunder Light flashed in his eyes, and a terrifying pressure spread out, making people tremble.

"Whoosh!" He suddenly opened his mouth.

In an instant, the black flame serpent surrounding him disintegrated, transforming into countless black flames that surged wildly into his mouth. In the blink of an eye, he swallowed all the endless black flames.

"Baiwei, come in." Northmont Blacktiger's deep and powerful voice echoed in the dim space.

With a soft rumble, Beishan Baiwei's figure appeared at the entrance to the space.

He bowed respectfully to the Northmont Blacktiger and said, "Father, I have something to report."

"Speak." Northmont Blacktiger's gaze fell on his son, his tone calm and even.

Beishan Baiwei dared not conceal anything and immediately recounted in detail what had happened that day in Worry-Free Grotto with Ji Ning, as well as everything that followed.

After listening to his son's account, Northmont Blacktiger remained silent for a long time before slowly speaking.

"A reincarnation of a powerful being?" Northmont Blacktiger murmured to himself. "If he were truly a reincarnation, his former friends would have come to guide him long ago. Why would he need to join this sect?"

"The Ji family is truly lucky. Ji Ning's talent is also extraordinary. The Black-White College will be accepting disciples in six months; it seems he will definitely be able to join smoothly."

"Father, you are wise," Beishan Baiwei replied respectfully.

"As for Ji An— " Northmont Blacktiger's voice suddenly turned serious, a complex look flashing in his eyes, "This boy is unfathomable."

"Of the two brothers, he is the one who most resembles that reincarnated immortal."

Upon hearing this, Beishan Baiwei was once again shocked. He knew that his father had extremely high standards, and it was simply unbelievable that his father would use the words "unfathomable" to describe a young junior.

"Today I discussed the Dao with him, and his understanding of the Dao is definitely no less than that of the immortals in the Black-White College," Northmont Blacktiger slowly added.

Beishan Baiwei stood respectfully to the side, waiting quietly for his father's instructions.

"Baiwei." Northmont Blacktiger nodded slightly, his tone softening. "It's your good fortune to have such a close friend. You should step back and rest."

"Yes." Beishan Baiwei responded and accepted the order, then turned and quickly left the dark place.

In the dim space, Northmont Blacktiger's eyes were deep as he pondered, "In the past twenty years, no sect, clan, or even god or demon has been heard of reincarnated. However, these two brothers have such cultivation at such a young age. Even if they are not reincarnated great powers, they must possess extraordinary opportunities. Especially Ji An, who can be described as a monster."

"Hoo." Northmont Blacktiger stopped thinking and opened his mouth, unleashing thousands of raging flames. In an instant, the flames re-condensed around him, transforming into a colossal black flame serpent. The serpent coiled in the dark space, its head slightly lowered, its expression leisurely and quite content.

In the blink of an eye, three years have passed.

In the twelfth month of the first year, Ji Ning participated in the entrance examination of the Black-White College as scheduled. With his strength, passing the Black-White College's trial was a foregone conclusion.

For the next three years, Ji Ning devoted himself to cultivation in the Black-White College, became a disciple of the Immortal of the Immortal Dian Cai, and learned the sword path of the Three-Foot Sword. Everything was exactly the same as the original story.

Three years ago, although Ji An declined the offer from Northmont Blacktiger, one of the heirs of the Marquis of Anch’an still generously gifted him a mansion located in the western part of Anchan City.

Ji An named this mansion "Universe". The name "Universe Prefecture" can also be found in the book "Anchan City" which is still circulating in Anchan City today.

During these three years, Ji An spent the vast majority of his time cultivating in the "Stars Hall" within his portable Water Manor.

With his astonishing comprehension and a bit of luck, he not only mastered all nine minor Minor Dao of metal, but also, through analogy, comprehended the higher-level "Grand Dao Domain of Geng Metal Grand Dao" in one fell swoop.

He could clearly feel that he was within reach of fully comprehending the complete Geng Metal Grand Dao.

On this day, Ji An arrived at the residence of his younger brother Ji Ning at Beiming Peak of the Black-White College.

In the courtyard, Ji Ning sat cross-legged, meditating with his eyes closed.

Sensing his brother's presence, he suddenly opened his eyes.

In an instant, two tangible sword beams shot out from his eyes, and an incomparably sharp sword intent rose from his body, soaring straight into the sky!

After three years of honing and cultivation, Ji Ning has also entered the path of the Great Grand Dao. Although he has only reached the realm of the True Meaning of the Grand Dao, it is already extremely rare.

This Grand Dao is precisely the one that Ji An has always wanted to enter but has never been able to comprehend – the Grand Dao of the Sword.

"Big Brother!" Ji Ning suddenly stood up, his eyes blazing with fighting spirit, and shouted, "How about we have a friendly spar?"

"Okay." Ji An nodded with a smile, standing with his hands behind his back, looking calm and composed.

"Big brother, be careful!" Ji Ning shouted in a low voice, and with a flick of his wrists, a pair of Beiming Swords appeared out of thin air in his hands.

Brush!

Ji Ning's figure suddenly transformed into a fleeting phantom, his twin swords dancing with lightning speed, instantly piercing towards the motionless Ji An.

Ji An remained calm. Facing the lightning-fast sword strike, he simply pointed his fingers forward as if they were swords, seemingly casually flicking them forward.

"Bite!"

A clear, metallic clang rang out.

Ji Ning felt a vast Dao intent rushing towards him, dismantling the power and sword intent contained in his sword move like a hot knife through butter, causing his sure-fire strike to involuntarily veer to the side.

Although they had sparred many times before, Ji Ning still couldn't help but feel a jolt in his heart. The metal element Dao intent contained in his elder brother's casual flick of the finger was far more profound than the True Meaning of Water and Fire he had comprehended.

"Hmph!" Ji Ning snorted coldly, and his sword stance suddenly changed.

Boom!

The entire courtyard instantly transformed into a blazing sea of fire, with rolling heat waves sweeping in all directions.

Ji Ning's sword light merged into the sea of fire, transforming into a blazing red lotus, which fiercely slashed down towards Ji An.

The power of this sword strike far surpassed that of the Thunderfire Sword left behind by Ji An.

"Condense." Ji An remained calm, uttering a single word softly.

In an instant, a dazzling golden sword light shot out from his fingertips, then split into countless fine golden threads.

These threads intertwined and tangled, instantly forming a large golden net that descended upon Ji Ning's Flaming Sword Lotus.

Sizzle!

The flaming lotus sword crashed violently into the golden net, but the raging flames were quickly cut and decomposed by the seemingly delicate and fragile golden threads.

In just a moment, the powerful flaming sword lotus vanished without a trace.

Water and fire are merciless!

Ji Ning let out a low growl, his eyes growing even sharper.

He knew that his elder brother's level of skill was unfathomable, and if he wanted to win, he had to go all out!