Li Fan explored methods to create new anchor points while observing the Spiritwood Realm's transformation. He noted the progress of Su Yuqing and others in their cultivation. Li Fan then traveled to Haixuan Island, bypassed its powerful formation using the Final Dissociation Disc, and infiltrated the island. He subdued the island's owner, Ji Shaoli, extracted his memories, and replaced him with a clone before sealing the original Ji Shaoli away. Li Fan successfully took over the island and its considerable wealth, along with its resources like the Tianxuan Mirror.
"However, he cannot measure up to me."
Clone Ji Shaoli’s eyes darted; drawing upon his past life experiences, he swiftly executed a series of maneuvers, expending 500,000 contribution points in a single instant.
He converted all his accumulated contribution points into materials anticipated to see a significant rise in value soon.
"Hmm, it appears the collapse of Nine Mountains Prefecture has indeed caused ripples."
"The price trends for certain commodities have already shifted. Some are skyrocketing ahead of schedule, while others are depreciating in a manner not seen before."
The clone manipulated the Tianxuan Mirror, employing a subtle, ethereal glow to shield the mirror, thus obscuring it from external detection.
After investing another million contribution points, he initiated a substantial acquisition of commonly used provisions.
With these items safely stowed away, Li Fan discreetly departed from Haixuan Island.
The clone, remaining at the location, extended an outreach to He Zhenghao.
Indeed—Ji Shaoli was also acquainted with He Zhenghao.
Given Daoist He's extensive network, and their mutual presence in the Congyun Sea, their acquaintance was hardly surprising.
Nevertheless, their interactions had been infrequent, and their bond was not one of deep camaraderie.
"Daoist He, how have your recent days been?"
"Would you perhaps be amenable to visiting Haixuan Island for a get-together?"
It was not solely He Zhenghao; the clone extended similar invitations to all cultivators he recalled having some connection with, summoning them to a grand banquet.
"While orchestrating conflicts between the Ten Thousand Immortal Alliance and the Five Elders Association, the research into [Foundation Establishment Through Oneself] must not be sidelined."
"Ultimately, this is the very element that poses a genuine threat to the stability of the Immortal Ancestor system."
Having left Haixuan Island, Li Fan's gaze sparkled as he proceeded directly towards Yin Yin Island.
Upon his arrival, he refrained from any rash actions.
Instead, he meticulously surveyed his surroundings.
Faintly, the distant cries of mortals could be heard emanating from the island.
Evidently, the clandestine investigations involving the Immortal-Mortal Miasma were still in progress.
A peculiar canine, bearing an eye embedded within its abdomen, darted wildly across the island, a white rib bone firmly held in its maw.
It appeared to be in a state of unusual elation.
"Master Yin dedicated three years to successfully achieve self-reliant Foundation Establishment."
"That was not an extended duration ago."
Li Fan contemplated for a moment, deciding against overt displays of power. He dispatched a message: "Daoist Yin, are you present?"
The recollections of his past confrontations with Master Yin remained remarkably clear.
Even possessing Nascent Soul cultivation and a repository of potent mystical arts, he had found himself incapable of overcoming Master Yin.
It was only through the deployment of the Chaos Character that he had ultimately achieved victory.
However, in this current existence, Li Fan was hesitant to wield the Chaos Character carelessly, as its use could disrupt the Immortal Ancestor.
Furthermore, he was anticipating Master Yin's further contributions to the advancement of the Foundation Establishment Through Oneself technique.
If diplomacy proved effective, that would be the most desirable outcome.
"I am here. Please, enter, Daoist."
The stone gateway of the island groaned open, and Li Fan stepped inside.
The peculiar humanoid canine abruptly swiveled its head, its gaze locking onto Li Fan.
With a deep, menacing growl, its eyes radiated intense suspicion.
The instant it parted its jaws, the white rib bone clattered to the ground.
Li Fan’s eyes flickered as he drew the bone into his grasp.
This very rib bone had once belonged to the inaugural cultivator, Daoist Su, who had been afflicted by the Immortal-Mortal Miasma.
During his 115th life, Li Fan had hurled this bone to distract a monstrous entity, formed from a multitude of corpses within the spectral mist, thereby securing his escape.
Witnessing the theft of its cherished possession, the humanoid dog's expression contorted into ferocity.
However, at a mere glance from Li Fan, the creature abruptly recoiled, a wave of apprehension washing over it.
In a swift motion, it retreated, its tail tucked low, and vanished into a nearby structure on the island.
Li Fan emitted a soft chuckle and followed its path.
This locale was familiar to him, and he soon located Master Yin.
Identical to his past lives, Master Yin was fixated on a transparent containment unit, within which a mortal subject was subjected to agonizing experimental procedures.
He was audibly murmuring to himself.
Li Fan casually tossed the white rib bone towards him.
Instinctively, Master Yin caught it.
"This is…" He paused, momentarily bewildered, then clutched the bone tightly.
"Just moments ago, at the entrance, I observed this small creature carrying this item. I had a fleeting sense that this bone held some unusual significance. It appears the little one was indulging in mischief and pilfered it for amusement," Li Fan explained with a smile.
Master Yin immediately comprehended the situation and delivered a harsh kick to the humanoid dog.
He then proceeded to secure the white rib bone.
His demeanor noticeably softened as he regarded Li Fan. "I wonder what brings you here, my friend?" he inquired.
Li Fan took a look around his surroundings. "This is not the place to talk..." he replied.
Master Yin found himself momentarily at a loss for words.
However, he didn't dwell on it and instead guided Li Fan into a subterranean chamber.
As they traversed the corridor adorned with Master Yin’s collection, he proceeded to introduce the various artifacts to Li Fan.
To Master Yin's surprise, Li Fan displayed a considerable understanding of these objects.
Occasionally, he could even contribute relevant insights, continuing the discourse.
This greatly pleased Master Yin, who had long yearned for someone to share his profound interest.
His disposition towards Li Fan became even more amicable.
Once more, he nudged the humanoid dog, commanding it to fetch two cups of dark, swirling Spirit Qi Mushroom Tea.
Before Master Yin could utter a word, Li Fan casually took hold of a tea cup and consumed its contents in a single gulp.
His expression remained utterly impassive.
"Good tea!" he exclaimed, appearing to genuinely savor it, as though desiring more.
This elicited surprise from Master Yin.
"This chamber is quite secluded. My friend, you may speak freely now," he stated calmly, taking a sip of his own tea.
"Master Yin, are you acquainted with the 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method?"
In the ensuing moment, Li Fan's question left Master Yin utterly dumbfounded.
"Cough, cough..." Master Yin sputtered, managing a few coughs before setting down his teacup. He then turned his gaze upon Li Fan, his expression one of puzzlement.
"You have come here seeking the 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method?"
Indeed, he had discussed this particular cultivation method with several individuals previously, but the vast majority had dismissed it as preposterous, choosing instead to mock it.
However, Li Fan was the very first person to approach him with such solemnity regarding it.
Sensing a peculiar affinity, Master Yin felt compelled to offer a word of caution. "But from my observation, you have already attained the Golden Core stage. The 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method is still incomplete..."
To his astonishment, Li Fan raised a hand, halting his words mid-sentence.
The subsequent declaration from Li Fan struck him like a thunderclap.
"When I first learned of your 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method, I was utterly astounded."
"However, upon subsequent deliberation, I discerned significant flaws within it."
"Consequently, I dedicated myself to arduous effort, expending substantial energy and time, and ultimately succeeded in perfecting it."
"Overjoyed by my accomplishment, I have journeyed here specifically to impart it to you."
"I sincerely hope, Master Yin, that you will assist me in identifying any residual imperfections."
Li Fan articulated these words with remarkable composure.
Upon hearing this revelation, Master Yin abruptly stood from his seat.
He fixated his gaze upon Li Fan, his eyes wide with utter disbelief.
He even began to chuckle. "You have perfected the 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method? My friend, are you jesting with me...?"
However, as Li Fan commenced to recite the complete formula of the method, articulating each word deliberately...
The amusement that had graced Master Yin's face gradually began to dissipate.
It was succeeded first by a wave of shock.
Then, by a solemn reflection.
Followed by an overwhelming sense of disbelief.
By the time Li Fan had concluded his explanation of the entire 'Foundation Establishment Through Oneself' method...
Master Yin's physique was wracked by uncontrollable tremors.
"How... how is this even conceivable..."
"This... this is utterly impossible..."
His eyes darted about, filled with profound confusion, as if desperately attempting to ascertain the method's viability.
Yet, no matter the calculations he performed, only a single conclusion emerged.
It was impeccably formulated—absolutely flawless.
Master Yin's legs buckled, and he stumbled, collapsing onto the floor.
His finger, trembling incessantly, was directed at Li Fan.
For an extended period, he remained utterly incapable of uttering a solitary sound.
