The panel clearly displayed the numbers after elemental collection.
Wood attribute sensitivity: 45
Earth attribute sensitivity: 41
Both were upper-grade spiritual roots.
Metal attribute sensitivity: 5
Water attribute sensitivity: 3
These fell within the range of pseudo-spiritual roots.
Fire attribute sensitivity: 0.
Once he obtained the fire spirit from the rift valley, his Five Elements would be complete. Based on the highest sensitivity, Li Pingcan was a cultivator with dual upper-grade wood and earth spiritual roots.
Dual upper-grade spiritual roots were far from his limit. With sufficient elemental spiritual energy, they could even advance to earth-grade, heaven-grade, or even mutated spiritual roots."Does the Venerable find this satisfactory?" the Tunneling Turtle asked.
The star meteorite was somewhat useful to it, but since it couldn't extract the essence through the meteorite's outer shell, only relying on the faint spiritual energy that slowly leaked out over time, it usually used it as a pillow for sleeping.
Seeing Nightingale standing motionless on the tree branch, the Tunneling Turtle grew anxious, wondering if the star meteorite failed to meet the Venerable's requirements.
Hearing the Tunneling Turtle's words, Li Pingcan snapped out of his thoughts and smiled. "Very satisfactory. Thank you for the star meteorite."
He activated a skill, summoning a gentle breeze from the heavens. A green glow flashed over the Tunneling Turtle's body, surrounding it with an aura of profound blessings.
Skill: [Nature's Gift]!
In an instant, the Tunneling Turtle clearly sensed the changes in its body. It was as if someone had cleared its confusion, parting the fog in its mind. Insights about the earth became deeper.
Though spirit beasts could gain intelligence, they remained quite dull. Their comprehension of cultivation was far inferior to humans, often requiring decades or even centuries to "enlighten."
This single moment of "guidance" was worth sixty years of human effort!
"This must be the Venerable Nightingale's doing!"
The Tunneling Turtle savored the feeling endlessly. By the time it reacted and wanted to express gratitude, only a faint shadow remained in the clouds—gone without a trace, roaming freely between heaven and earth.
Sincerely, it knelt down in worship, hiding its gratitude in its heart while secretly vowing to assist the Venerable Nightingale in any way possible in the future.
......
Three months passed in the blink of an eye. Autumn gave way to winter, and auspicious snow heralded a bountiful year.
Flat Peach Town, Li Family Martial Arts School.
A carriage engraved with sword patterns stopped at the school's entrance. A woman in white robes leaped out—none other than Jiang Ling'er.
Tall and graceful, she carried a longsword at her waist. Her gentle eyes brimmed with affection as she gazed at the tall man emerging from the school.
The surrounding disciples burst into laughter. Sun Zheng teased, "Master, Master, your future wife is here again!"
"Quiet!" Li Pingfu scowled and swatted his disciple's rear. "Have you finished today's drills? Get back to training!"
After shooing away the noisy disciples, Li Pingfu turned to Jiang Ling'er. "Ling'er, why are you here?"
"I missed him!" Jiang Ling'er declared loudly, her face flushing slightly. "A day apart feels like eight autumns. Yet he never misses me..." Her voice carried a maiden's delicate melancholy.
A month ago, they had clarified their relationship. While they say "a woman chasing a man is as easy as parting a veil," Jiang Ling'er couldn't shake the feeling that Li Pingfu didn't reciprocate her affection as deeply.
To him, she seemed more like a suitable match in all aspects rather than someone he truly loved.
"What can I do? Who made me fall for him first?"
Li Pingfu's expression shifted slightly. He still wasn't accustomed to Jiang Ling'er's straightforward affection, though he didn't dislike it.
Compared to Lin Xiaowu, any normally tempered woman was a relief—let alone someone as gentle and accommodating as Jiang Ling'er.
Over these three months, Li Pingfu had been busy dividing the Vermilion Bird Martial School's disciples with the other three schools, securing sixty percent for himself. He had also gathered thorough intelligence on the Jiang Family Sword Dojo.
In Yunshui County, the Jiang Family Sword Dojo was quite renowned. The dojo master, Jiang Han, was a Postnatal Realm martial artist with two sons and a daughter—the youngest being Jiang Ling'er.
Her two elder brothers, Jiang Qi and Jiang Shan, were both Divine Execution Realm martial artists, over fifteen years her senior.
Jiang Qi had ventured out to establish a security escort agency, while Jiang Shan, slightly less accomplished than his brother, assisted with teaching at the dojo.
As the only daughter, Jiang Ling'er had been doted on since childhood yet remarkably avoided becoming spoiled—proof of her inherently kind nature.
"Pingfu-ge." Jiang Ling'er tugged lightly at his sleeve, her voice tender yet timid. "When will you visit my parents in Yunshui County?"
Ever since being dramatically rescued at Spirit Mountain, her heart had raced uncontrollably around Li Pingfu—she'd fallen for him at first sight.
But Li Pingfu's reserved nature made his true feelings inscrutable, leaving her anxious. She longed to formalize their relationship.
Meeting her hopeful gaze, Li Pingfu felt complicated.
First, having broken through to the Divine Execution Realm, marriage and children wouldn't affect his martial path.
Second, at twenty-two, most men his age were already married with children—even Li Yuan had a chubby son to carry on his lineage.
A family's prosperity relied on capable descendants.
As for Jiang Ling'er, Li Pingfu didn't feel overwhelming passion. His life's goals were family safety and martial supremacy—no woman might ever stir romantic love in him.
While he envied his parents' love, he doubted such fortune awaited him.
Having a suitable wife was already fortunate enough.
Where could one find earth-shattering, undying love? Simple companionship was reality.
"Tomorrow, then." Li Pingfu made his decision.
......
Li Family Residence.
Upon hearing Li Pingfu planned to visit his "future in-laws" tomorrow, Li Rongzhou and Lady Qin grew excited.
Their son had finally shown interest!
Though martial arts mattered, as parents, they'd worried over his detached demeanor.
Lady Qin smiled warmly. "I've seen Jiang Ling'er—a fine girl. Do your best to impress her father. Don't let such a good match slip away."
"The gifts shouldn't be shabby."
Li Rongzhou considered deeper—Dojo Master Jiang had seen countless treasures from Yunshui Sword Dojo. Their "treasures" might not impress.
But they couldn't skimp either. Sincere effort mattered most.
Li Pingcan grinned. He'd always thought his elder brother and Sister Jiang would suit each other.
But with his brother's cold exterior hiding warmth, could Sister Jiang melt his heart?
"Second Brother should know too," Li Pingcan suggested. "Have him return for celebratory drinks."
Li Ping'an, after years of preparation, would take the imperial exams next spring, aiming to astonish all like a dragon emerging from depths.
Xie Yuan added cheerfully, "Elder Brother's wedding means we need auspicious robes!" Handmade family robes brought extra blessings.
The household burst into chaotic activity—some preparing gifts, others measuring fabrics—busier than New Year celebrations.
Li Pingfu sighed. "I'm just meeting Dojo Master Jiang. He might not agree to the marriage."
He understood—while Jiang Ling'er liked him, her family's approval was another hurdle.
But his words drowned in the festive clamor, ignored by the excited "groom's" family.
......
Next morning.
Yunshui County lived up to its upper-tier status—clean streets, bustling shops, orderly vendors confined to side alleys without blocking main roads.
Residents brimmed with vitality; no beggars lined the streets.
At the Jiang residence, after the servant announced them...
Jiang Ling'er fluttered over like a bird, looping her arm through Li Pingfu's. "I'll take you to meet Father and Mother."
Li Pingfu nodded, following her inside. Along the way, Taihu rocks graced shimmering ponds where koi swam. Ink bamboo leaned against walls, yellowed tips brushing the water's surface. Maids paused in the white jade corridor to bow respectfully.
Pausing mid-step, Li Pingfu recalled Peach Blossom Village's modest courtyard—even ten Li family compounds couldn't match this single Jiang family fishpond's luxury.
The class disparity struck him viscerally.
But he didn't falter. A resolved man pursued his goals relentlessly.
Jiang Ling'er valued him, not his background—a real man needed no shame.
Meanwhile, in the reception hall...
Dojo Master Jiang Han sat on a fragrant bamboo chair, Madam Jiang beside him. Both dressed formally, clearly approving of Li Pingfu.
Young, martially talented, steady—he'd established his own school in Flat Peach Town without family backing. A promising rising star.
Only his family's circumstances held him back; otherwise, he'd have soared earlier.
With Jiang Han's resources, Li Pingfu could quickly gain footing in Yunshui County and build his legacy.
Yet during this "meeting," Jiang Han and his wife wore grim expressions—thanks to their eldest son, Jiang Qi, standing before them.
Tall with a green dragon-patterned sword sheathed at his waist, Jiang Qi frowned. "Father, Mother, how could you promise Sister to some unknown country bumpkin?"
"Unknown? He's Dojo Master Li from Flat Peach Town," Jiang Han stressed. "Your sister chose him."
"Sister's just infatuated," Jiang Qi argued. "Besides, this 'Dojo Master Li' probably inherited his school from family wealth."
Jiang Han nearly choked—his son opposed blindly without even investigating!
Clearing his throat, he said, "Dojo Master Li is twenty-two, already a Divine Execution Realm martial artist with potential to reach the Postnatal Realm."
Jiang Qi froze.
He'd only reached Divine Execution at thirty—considered exceptional.
Still, he stubbornly countered, "Youthful arrogance might block his advancement! If Sister marries into poverty, what then?"
Talent mattered, but could it bridge wealth gaps?
Besides, he had a better candidate—Yun Mo.
Watching Yun Mo grow up, Jiang Qi knew his character and background—a perfect match unlike this stranger Li Pingfu.
Having traveled widely, Jiang Qi had heard tales of noble girls marrying poor talents, only for the men to abandon them after succeeding.
The thought ignited fury.
Imagining his beloved sister suffering such fate, Jiang Qi's temper flared.
"Father, you're giving your daughter away, not selling her! If Sister's fooled, fine—but how could you trade her happiness for a promising martial artist?"
"Jiang Qi! Is that how you see me?"
Jiang Han gave up. Seeing his son lost in delusions, he waved dismissively. "Meet Li Pingfu yourself later!"
A servant announced, "Young Miss and Dojo Master Li have arrived."
The servant eyed Li Pingfu respectfully—this might be the future young master.
But hearing arguments inside, he pitied the man. Young Master Jiang Qi wasn't easily appeased!
"Hmph!" Jiang Qi snorted at the announcement. "Fine! Let's see what qualifies him to marry my sister! He'll never have my approval!"
Turning to leave, he nearly collided with Li Pingfu—tall, broad-shouldered, with powerful arms and a steady aura—the epitome of martial aesthetics.
Jiang Qi paused.
Seizing the moment, Li Pingfu clasped hands respectfully. "This junior greets Senior Jiang, Madam Jiang, and Elder Brother Jiang."
"Good, good! No need for formalities." Jiang Han smiled. "Take a seat."
"Many thanks, Senior Jiang."
Li Pingfu rose calmly, moving with ease as if at home.
Jiang Qi snapped back—almost fooled by appearances!
Glancing at his sister, he saw her gaze glued to Li Pingfu and fumed. If even he nearly fell for it, no wonder Sister was enchanted.
Straightforward by nature, he cut to the chase. "If you want to marry my sister, forget my parents' approval—get past me first."
Jiang Han stayed silent.
While he favored Li Pingfu, failing Jiang Qi's test meant incompatibility.
Losing was acceptable—but lacking courage to face challenges wasn't. Without martial resolve, how could one reach the Postnatal Realm?
With sharpened senses from practicing Five Spirit Play, Li Pingfu had overheard the earlier argument and prepared mentally.
A family's marriage concerns were natural—proof they cared for their daughter.
Stopping an indignant Jiang Ling'er, he asked, "What test does Elder Brother Jiang propose?"
"Martial artists settle things with strength!"
Jiang Qi stomped, cracking the threshold as sword energy hummed fiercely.
......
As a sword family, the Jiang residence had dedicated training grounds.
On the arena, Jiang Qi stepped forward first, tossing his sword aside—he wouldn't weapon-advantage a barehanded fighter.
Li Pingfu removed his knuckle guards. Victory required either ring-out or knockout.
A gong struck.
Two figures collided violently, shaking the stone platform upon impact, muscles distorting momentarily from the force!
They separated instantly—this fierce clash was merely initial probing.
Jiang Qi discarded his earlier contempt. Experts recognized skill instantly—that impact felt like hitting stone, his arm briefly numb.
This kid had solid foundations!
Li Pingfu focused intently. Though Jiang Qi specialized in swords, his martial skills were formidable—a swordsman armed, a warrior unarmed!
"Here I come!"
Jiang Qi roared, launching a vicious whip kick toward Li Pingfu's temple, his foot like a spike aiming for the fatal point.
Li Pingfu sidestepped narrowly, hands darting toward Jiang Qi's extended leg like crane claws, jabbing viciously at the thigh's pressure point—a hit would disable the leg for half a month.
He held nothing back—Jiang Qi's combat experience surpassed his. Any hesitation would've left him already defeated.
"Nice move!"
Jiang Qi twisted unnaturally, countering with a sweeping dragon tail kick to break Li Pingfu's grip, then pressed close with rapid punches.
Bam! Bam! Bam!
The two tangled fiercely, unleashing unprecedented violence.
......
"They're going all out!"
Jiang Ling'er watched anxiously, torn between her brother and beloved, tears welling. She longed to cry, "Stop fighting!"
"Don't worry, Daughter. With your father here, nothing serious will happen."
Jiang Han's eyes sparkled with delight—who knew steady Li Pingfu harbored such ferocity? Perfect for his tastes!
True martial artists needed a touch of savagery!
Onstage, sweat and blood flew.
Li Pingfu felt exhilarated—the blinding sun, flesh-pounding strikes, coppery blood on his tongue, bones creaking under strain... The thrill of an equal battle surged through him!
Flat Peach Town was too small—devoid of worthy opponents. How long since he'd felt such combat fever?
He craved true battle.
Suddenly, Jiang Qi's voice came: "Admit defeat, renounce my sister, and I'll make you my escort agency's deputy—better than your dojo!"
Without hesitation, Li Pingfu's eyes flashed red. "Fight me!"
"You stubborn—!"
Jiang Qi studied him deeply—utterly unyielding!
Yet satisfaction grew—Li Pingfu embodied pure martial spirit, unwavering in purpose. Such men stayed true to their goals despite obstacles, destined for greatness.
Recalling favored Yun Mo, Jiang Qi now found him somewhat effeminate compared to Li Pingfu's might.
With this thought...
Jiang Qi charged fiercely again—then suddenly dropped like a leaf off the platform.
"I yield."
Li Pingfu frowned.
The fight was half-done—Jiang Qi's surrender felt like an interrupted climax, frustratingly unresolved.
Though displeased, seeing Jiang Ling'er near tears, he conceded. "Elder Brother Jiang is gracious."
They couldn't actually fight to death, could they?
Jiang Qi shook his head. This kid won yet looked dissatisfied—what an act!