Longevity, starting from being a chicken raising servant Chapter 2492: 233: The Banquet (Part 3)

With a lingering sigh, he spoke: “I possess a deep love for literature; this sanctuary of mine serves as a study, housing an infinite number of volumes. I call it ‘Yuan Zhai,’ symbolizing the genesis of the Realm Sea’s literary collection. I was hesitant to make such a claim previously, but following today’s acquisition of this Golden Immortal artifact, my study truly justifies its title.”

Then, his demeanor shifted, becoming even more animated: “As fate would have it, Taiyuan has dwelled within this modest abode for far too long and is eager for a change of scene. I intend to pay a visit to the Palace Master of Yin Palace, and I would like to request that a fellow Taoist facilitate an introduction. I might seek your assistance for a time.”

As these words hung in the air, the others present grasped the true motivation behind his sudden change of heart.

While each harbored their own private agendas, the atmosphere remained civil on the surface, and several took the opportunity to extend invitations to him.

Amidst these exchanges, which were shrouded in layers of insincerity, Taiyuan appeared visibly touched and promptly replied: “I shall depart with you shortly, and I do not anticipate returning for eight or nine centuries.”

Upon hearing this admission, Wang Ba felt a curious sense of relief, though it was quickly eclipsed by a surge of anxiety.

According to the information shared by Li Yuehua, this individual was currently his only potential ally. Should he wish to make a clean escape, he would undoubtedly require their intervention.

He could not afford to place all his confidence in Taiyuan, yet without their support, he would be left with no choice but to await the arrival of the Master of Quiet Cave.

Regardless, now was hardly the appropriate moment to voice such concerns.

At that precise junction, Taiyuan resumed his address: “Since you have all honored my modest dwelling with your presence, I cannot permit you to depart empty-handed. Beyond this True Spirit Fish, you are welcome to contemplate the deeper mysteries of the Third Realm Sea while here.”

“Although the laws governing this Third Realm Sea are elementary, their origins track closer to the primordial essence when contrasted with the density of the Second Realm Sea, and its Water of Origin harbors a potent Power of Creation. Its efficacy far surpasses the origin found within the reaches of the Second Realm Sea.”

“This component constitutes the very heart of the Third Realm Sea and may provide substantial nourishment for the manifestation of your rules...”

“You are welcome to carry a small portion with you upon your departure, though I must insist you be moderate, as excessive removal could disrupt the function of the entire Third Realm Sea. I trust you understand.”

These words stirred something within Wang Ba, who could not help but cast a glance at the murky, dark waters enveloping him.

If his assumptions held true, the very seawater that posed such a threat to True Spirits was undoubtedly the ‘Water of Origin’ that Taiyuan had just described.

The fact that Taiyuan was willing to bestow it as a gift suggested that the Water of Origin within this Realm Sea was of extraordinary and immense value.

His thoughts immediately turned to the benefits Taiyuan had highlighted:

“A catalyst to nourish the manifestation of rules...”

Visions of several distinct figures flickered through his consciousness.

Simultaneously, Taiyuan appeared to have stepped toward the edge of the Waterside Pavilion, drawing back the veil to gesture toward the Sky Dome:

“The laws of the Third Realm Sea are manifested upon this Sky Dome. Without expert guidance, even immortals would struggle to fathom their depth. If you adhere to my instruction, you may observe and grasp their inner essence.”

“Since you stand here with a divided soul, gaining insight into these matters will yield specific advantages.”

“Direct your gaze eastward to witness the aspect of Qingmu, alongside one of the six cardinal rules of Buddhism.”

“To the west...”

“To the south...”

Taiyuan pointed systematically in each direction.

Wang Ba desperately wanted to rise to the surface to better hear what was being said, yet he dared not risk exposure by acting with such recklessness.

Nevertheless, he carved every syllable of Taiyuan’s lecture into his memory.

It surprised him to note how those inside the Waterside Pavilion offered only perfunctory responses to their host.

They offered a few hollow platitudes before lightheartedly drifting into trivial conversation.

It was clear that for these immortals, the purported ‘blessings’ of the Third Realm Sea held little weight.

Wang Ba wasted little time, drifting back beneath the pavilion like a mindless True Spirit Fish.

As he swam, he continually replayed the dialogue he had overheard.

He did so until Taiyuan remarked: “Friends, allow me to present you with a measure of the Water of Origin.”

Wang Ba suddenly tensed, terrified to remain a moment longer, and slowly retreated into the shadowed depths of the pool.

Above him, in the comfort of the Waterside Pavilion, a middle-aged figure clad in a crane cloak and a plain expression gently drew the curtain aside, letting his gaze descend into the depths, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly...