Ancient Gods - V1C8
Prologue: Farewell, Fourth Elder
1: A remaining mark
2: The Star Emperor Tower
3: Lingxu's Hostage
4: A Bunch of Hypocrites
5: Su Fei
6: The Duel
7: Dao of Divine Pills
8: Beauty Pill
9: Mastering Alchemy
10: Xu Xin and Su Fei Are Denied
11: No Meat, No Soup, No Cooking
12: The Extraordinary Tianxuan Realm
13: A Salted Fish Turns over
14: Those Elders Have No Shame
15: The Yangchun Pill
Chapter 8
Beauty Pill
Once she exited, Mo Yang eagerly turned and shut the door behind him before heading straight for the stone tower. He climbed to the second floor and approached the large Pill Furnace. The ancient, dark Pill Furnace towered over him, exuding an aura of age.
It was only now that Mo Yang noticed three ancient characters inscribed on the furnace: 'Creation Furnace'!
He had already cleaned up the area surrounding the Pill Furnace. In addition to the Divine Pill Dao scroll, he had discovered two ancient scrolls that contained insights into alchemy.
For Mo Yang, the two ancient scrolls were like having a master alchemist with unparalleled skills at his side, imparting wisdom spanning generations. With his newfound ability of visual memory, he dedicated the last few days to meticulously memorizing every intricate detail of their contents. The scrolls contained an extensive array of formulas for pills, each carefully crafted and seemingly capable of curing a multitude of ailments, from minor injuries to chronic diseases.
Among the wealth of knowledge, the most complex formulas stood out, focusing on advanced cultivation techniques and potent healing remedies, designed to enhance both physical and spiritual well-being. The intricate diagrams and explanations fascinated Mo Yang, igniting a passionate fire within him as he aspired to master the art of alchemy.
However, he understood that merely absorbing knowledge was not enough; he needed to apply what he had learned through rigorous practice. With all the ingredients he now had, he was eager to turn his dreams into reality and take his first steps toward becoming a skilled alchemist.
Inside the Pill Furnace, a cluster of crimson flames burned steadily, having done so for what seemed like decades, perhaps even centuries. Mo Yang circled around the Pill Furnace, contemplating for a while. Could it be some mystical flame from the heavens? It’s hard to believe it hasn’t gone out. Given that this Pill Furnace is called the Creation Furnace, I’ll name it Flame of Creation!
He then set about gathering the necessary medicinal ingredients. The Divine Pill Dao scroll provided a general classification of Medicinal Pills, ranging from simple to complex, with varying requirements for medicinal ingredients. Common Medicinal Pills needed fewer and more readily available ingredients, while Spirit Pills often required a greater number, including some rare Spirit Medicines.
Mo Yang's first choice for refinement was the initial Pill Formula listed in the ancient scroll, known as the Marrow Cleansing Pill. As its name suggested, this pill cleansed the marrow, eliminating impurities from the body and enhancing a cultivator's root bones, potentially leading to a state of purity. It also has a positive effect on True Qi, aiding in its condensation. Mo Yang chose the Marrow Cleansing Pill because it is especially beneficial for cultivators at lower levels, boosting their root bones early on and greatly enhancing their future growth. Additionally, it requires the fewest ingredients, consisting of only two types.
Hundred Spirit Vine and Long Ginseng Beard, just two ingredients. I’ve memorized the Alchemy techniques and key points, so this should be easy! Mo Yang extracted the two ingredients, took a deep breath, and began the refinement process, ensuring he measured the proportions correctly.
However, to his surprise, as soon as he added the Hundred Spirit Vine to the Pill Furnace, it was instantly reduced to ash by the crimson flames. Mo Yang didn’t even have time to react. “I wrapped the ingredients with True Qi, so why…?” He frowned, pondering the situation, and attempted again, only to face the same outcome.
He continued trying—third, fourth, fifth attempts… After countless tries, he had burned through most of the Hundred Spirit Vine in his storage ring, but success continued to elude him. Although some of his later attempts showed signs of refinement, a momentary lapse could lead to complete failure.
Mo Yang felt as though he was nearing his breaking point. He had the Pill Formula, he understood the Alchemy techniques… He seemed prepared for everything, yet the process was proving to be exceptionally challenging. “Damn it, I refuse to let a mere Medicinal Pill defeat me today!” he exclaimed. “I’ve endured ten years of hardships, so even if you test me a thousand times, I’ll treat you like an ancestor!”
Determined, Mo Yang reset his resolve and cautiously embarked on another set of attempts. He nearly succeeded twice, only to falter at the last second. He also noticed that while the refinement of Medicinal Pills drained little True Qi at first, the relentless attempts wore him down, leaving him feeling utterly exhausted. He eventually had to sit down and meditate to regain his energy, continuing the refinement process only after his True Qi had recovered somewhat.
As time passed and with almost all his Hundred Spirit Vine and Long Ginseng Beard used up, he finally managed to condense a Medicinal Pill.
The Medicinal Pill Mo Yang held was far from what the ancient scroll had described. Its dark, mottled color gave it a crude appearance, and its irregular shape didn’t inspire confidence.
With a mix of amusement and determination, he examined the pill for a moment and swallowed it without hesitation. Almost instantly, he felt it dissolve in his mouth, sending a warm sensation rushing into his abdomen and quickly spreading throughout his body.
It may not look great, but it tastes good, he thought, as a sudden heat surged within him, alongside waves of pain. Sweat poured down his body, soaking his robes within moments.
This was the first time he had taken a Marrow Cleansing Pill. Initially filled with excitement, he soon realized the experience was proving quite challenging. Yet, he gritted his teeth and endured through the discomfort.
After about half an hour, the intense burning began to fade, and the pain gradually subsided, giving way to an indescribable feeling of comfort and relaxation. Mo Yang paid no mind to the dirt seeping from his skin as he circulated his True Qi, noticing its solidified state and smoother circulation. His cultivation had improved slightly as well.
“Impressive,” he murmured. However, he recalled that the ancient scroll mentioned the most significant effects occurred with the first dose, with diminishing returns for subsequent doses.
If I can refine and swallow one pill each day, in about half a month, I’ll undergo a complete transformation. But gathering the medicinal ingredients is going to be a hassle, Mo Yang thought, frowning. He realized he couldn’t keep deceiving Su Fei, especially since she wouldn’t fall for the same trick twice.
After some deep contemplation, Mo Yang rose and left the stone tower.
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For the following days, he devoted himself to refining Medicinal Pills on the second floor of the stone tower. After refining two Marrow Cleansing Pills, he found his supply of ingredients was almost completely depleted. Although he hadn’t cultivated during this time, his True Qi continued to be consumed rapidly, seemingly tapping into his potential. As a result, his cultivation had progressed more quickly than before, and his Mental Energy had also improved significantly.
When he exited the stone tower, he had already reached the Peak Level of the Earth Profound Realm. Wood Peak remained surprisingly quiet, and he found himself hoping Su Fei would appear.
His motivation was simple. He needed to persuade Su Fei to give him more medicinal ingredients, as he had no other options. If he left the Sect to purchase them in the city, the cost would be substantial, and he didn’t have enough silver to spare.
Trying to get something for nothing won’t work this time. I’ll need to refine a beauty-enhancing Medicinal Pill to trade with her. After considerable thought, Mo Yang devised a plan.
In the stone pagoda, he skimmed through the Divine Pill Dao and decided on a Medicinal Pill known as the Beauty Pill, specifically intended for Su Fei. Luckily, he had all the required ingredients on hand, and this particular pill was relatively easy to create. Its appeal would be particularly strong for women, making it difficult for Su Fei to resist.
With the experience gained from refining the Marrow Cleansing Pill, the process for creating the Beauty Pill felt easier. Though he faced several failures, he succeeded on his fourth attempt, producing a pill that was not only well-shaped but also attractive in color.
Indeed, practice makes perfect! After all those earlier failures, I’m finally getting the hang of it! Mo Yang remarked, pleased with his progress as he left the stone pagoda with the finished Medicinal Pill. Since Su Fei didn't show up, he decided to go find her himself.
▪──── ⚔ ────▪
Mo Yang departed from Wood Peak with the Medicinal Pill in hand, making his way directly to Main Peak.
While on his journey, he encountered numerous Sect disciples. Most of them maintained a safe distance, retreating at the sight of him. The days of sarcastic remarks seemed to have vanished. Even some disciples who had never mocked him previously bravely greeted him, and Mo Yang responded with a smile and a nod of acknowledgment to each.
Noticing his path towards Main Peak, whispers began circulating among the crowd.
"Looks like he’s heading to Main Peak. Is he planning to confront Senior Brother Qi?"
"I have a feeling he’s going to meet with Junior Sister Su. This guy certainly has some nerve. Is it possible that he was unhappy with things being private and now wants to be open about it?"
"Tsk tsk, if he’s truly visiting Junior Sister Su, we might be in for quite a show... Climbing Main Peak to flirt openly?”
Hearing the chatter behind him, Mo Yang felt a bit exasperated but chose to ignore it, continuing toward Main Peak.
"Mo Yang, what brings you to Main Peak?"
He encountered the Second Elder during his travels. Noticing Mo Yang, the Second Elder frowned. He had always viewed Mo Yang unfavorably; despite the Grand Elder’s esteem for him since his new cultivation, the Second Elder never extended any kindness. Mo Yang vividly recalled all the small-mindedness and even the assassination attempt the Second Elder had made when he tried to leave the sect. That was something he could never forgive or overlook. Mo Yang had zero respect for an elder who picked on a young boy. Elders should be models and mentors, as the Fourth Elder is.
"Is it a crime to come to Main Peak?" Mo Yang calmly replied with a hint of sarcasm in the eyes.
Second Elder’s expression turned sour. Mo Yang’s response caught him off guard. Though he was tempted to reprimand him, he recalled Grand Elder's specific instructions not to make things difficult for Mo Yang. So, with a cold snort, he turned and strode away.
However, some disciples had already spread the word of Mo Yang's arrival at Main Peak, sparking curiosity about his intentions.
Upon his arrival at Main Peak, a crowd of disciples was already gathered, and Qi Heng hurried over upon hearing the news.
He glared at Mo Yang with cold eyes and asked in a chill tone, "What business do you have on Main Peak, Junior Brother Mo?"
Mo Yang surveyed Qi Heng’s stern expression and felt a smirk rising, but managed to suppress it. Calmly, he replied, "I’m looking for Su Fei!"
At this, Qi Heng’s expression darkened further as he snapped, "How dare you! What are you planning to do?"
Mo Yang paused, a bit taken aback, and frowned, "Since when did my actions become Senior Brother Qi's concern? Do I need your approval?"
"You..."
Qi Heng's demeanor grew even colder, but Mo Yang's comments rendered him momentarily mute, as he had no authority over Mo Yang.
Mo Yang nonchalantly waved his hand and said, "What are you waiting for? Step aside and stop wasting my time!"
Qi Heng was furious, with his face shifting between shades of red and pale. However, he was hesitant to confront Mo Yang. His previous injuries had not healed completely, and confronting Mo Yang now would only lead to a significant defeat, not to mention the loss of his reputation.
The surrounding disciples remained silent, aware that even Qi Heng could not challenge Mo Yang without fear of repercussions. If they dared intervene, they would likely face severe consequences.
“Who dares to create trouble on Main Peak? Do you think I don't matter?” Su Fei's voice rang out, cutting through the tension before Mo Yang could respond.
As soon as the disciples heard her voice, they quickly stepped back. Su Fei strode forward confidently, hands on her hips, but her expression soured upon realizing it was Mo Yang.
"Haha, Junior Sister Su, it's been ages! I was just about to seek you out, and here you are. What a coincidence!" Mo Yang said with a laugh, casually using the title ‘Junior Sister Fei’.
Qi Heng's anger flared as he glared at Mo Yang, wishing he could strike him multiple times. Many of Su Fei’s admirers nearby seethed with frustration at Mo Yang’s words, yet felt powerless to respond.
Su Fei’s expression hardened, and she retorted, "Are your words not trustworthy?"
Mo Yang replied sincerely, "What do you mean by that? I actually need to discuss something important with you. Let’s find another place to talk about it."
He surveyed the other disciples around him, glancing back at Su Fei.
"Hmph! If you have something to say, say it here!" Su Fei refused to provoke Mo Yang; she knew she couldn’t beat him, and both the Grand Elder and her father, Sect Master, were firmly backing Mo Yang.
"Uh... alright!" Mo Yang was taken aback for a moment, then frowned at the nearby disciples. "What are you all staring at? Don’t you have cultivation to do?"
Everyone was left speechless. In the past, Mo Yang would have faced ridicule for such words, but times had changed. With his evident strength, Qi Heng stood no chance against him, let alone the others.
Reluctantly, the disciples turned and left, not daring to linger. Qi Heng let out a frustrated snort, shot a glare at Mo Yang, and walked away as well.
Mo Yang quickly stepped closer to Su Fei and lowered his voice, "Junior Sister Fei, could you help me gather some more medicinal ingredients?"
"What do you need so many medicinal ingredients for?" Su Fei's expression shifted as she hesitated, taking a few steps back and eyeing Mo Yang warily.
Last time, she had been curious to ask, and she never imagined that just a few days later, Mo Yang would approach her again for medicinal ingredients.
"This is a Beauty Pill," Mo Yang said quietly, presenting the pill he had prepared earlier. "It nourishes the complexion and enhances beauty. For women, taking it can feel like a complete transformation. Not only does it help maintain eternal youth, but it also has other wonderful benefits!"
Upon hearing this, Su Fei's expression shifted immediately. She focused intently on the pill in Mo Yang's hand and then glanced at him with a mixture of surprise and skepticism. "You can refine Medicinal Pills?" she asked.
She found it hard to believe. As a Cultivator, she was well aware of the significance of Medicinal Pills. However, Alchemy was considered a distinct specialty, and no one in the Lingxu Sect was known to practice it. The only action was to spend vast amounts of silver to buy them.
In this moment, she felt no doubt that he knew of Alchemy, for Mo Yang's rapid progress in cultivation during this time was unexplainable. His ability to produce this Medicinal Pill seemed to make sense of everything, including how he acquired those rare medicinal ingredients.
"Cough cough, I learned a little by chance," Mo Yang replied. "If Junior Sister Su is interested in a partnership, please keep it confidential!"
Su Fei regarded Mo Yang with doubt but instinctively reached for the pill. However, Mo Yang, quick on his feet, swiftly pulled his hand back.
"Mo Yang, you..."
With a chuckle, Mo Yang suggested, "If you're open to it, we could establish a long-term partnership. You provide the medicinal ingredients, and once I've refined the pills, I can share some with you. But this must remain our little secret, just between us."
As she listened to his words, Su Fei felt her cheeks heat up. The fact that Mo Yang chose to confide such an astonishing piece of information in her was surprising! Alchemists held great respect across the Profound Heaven Continent, often regarded as honored guests wherever they appeared.
Although Mo Yang's demeanor was firm, Su Fei couldn’t shake the strange feeling building within her. Previously, people considered him a good-for-nothing, but now it seemed clear he was a genius! Mo Yang was shrouded in enigmatic secrets, making her curious about him. How could he have learned Alchemy while residing in the Lingxu Sect, where even the Fourth Elder lacked this knowledge? Why did Moy Yang wait a decade to show his abilities? But it was a fact that now, Mo Yang could no longer be bullied and ignored.
"You have to show me that Medicinal Pill first. If what you say is true, I... I can help you!" Su Fei stammered, her voice losing its usual sharpness as her emotions fluctuated.
Noticing that Su Fei was acting differently, Mo Yang didn’t give it much thought. He was thrilled by her response and handed her the Beauty Pill, whispering, "You'll see its effects once you take it. I promise you'll become more radiant and beautiful!"
Su Fei felt her face grow warmer. Mo Yang had previously stated he was uninterested in her, and she had always found that annoying since everyone except him ever complimented. Now, hearing him call her radiant and beautiful, it felt as though something deep inside her was finally acknowledged, sending her emotions into a whirl.
Mo Yang furrowed his brow, sensing something was off with Su Fei, but chose to focus on the matter at hand. "I'll wait for your good news at Wood Peak!" he said.
Su Fei accepted the Beauty Pill and tucked it away absentmindedly, avoiding looking at Mo Yang as her blush deepened, and she nodded shyly.
Seeing her response, Mo Yang felt somewhat relieved. He said nothing more and quietly turned to descend the main peak.
The disciples of the main peak, who had kept their distance, were wary but observed the interaction between Mo Yang and Su Fei from afar. They noticed Su Fei's blush and her nod of agreement, making it hard for many to believe what they were witnessing.
Only when Mo Yang's figure disappeared did Qi Heng approach with a dark expression.
Su Fei quickly regained her composure. Qi Heng coldly remarked, “Junior Sister Su, regardless of what Mo Yang says, you shouldn't trust him. He disrespects his Elders and speaks recklessly. Keep your distance from him! I don’t know what opportunity he found that allowed his cultivation to advance so rapidly, but he's too cunning; you need to be cautious!”
Su Fei gathered herself and calmly responded, "Senior Brother Qi, I know this!"
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