Chapter 401: Children Meet but Do Not Recognize Each Other

Due to the overwhelming solar energy during the day, the ideal time for yin-yang harmonization was at night, specifically around the same time that Daoist Qingsong's baptism had taken place.

Consequently, by the time everything was completed, several days had already elapsed.

One evening in early November, Ji Yuan withdrew his brush from a suspended imperial decree. Qin Zizhou remained still as starlight continued to shower down from the sky like rain.

The old dragon, who had finished his task, stood beside Ji Yuan, observing characters shimmering within water ripples spanning approximately ten *zhang*. Vast amounts of starlight converged, brilliant as a galaxy. The falling starlight appeared to expand this ethereal river of stars, though in reality, the physical space remained unchanged; it was merely an illusion of the mind.

"Mr. Ji," the old dragon remarked, "you said this is essentially the Water Element Spirit Gathering Formation, which you acquired from me, with only minor modifications. To me, these 'minor' changes seem quite significant!"

The old dragon watched Qin Zizhou seemingly merge with the starlight, steadily amplifying the astral glow within the "Spirit River" and gradually obscuring the previously brighter characters of the imperial decree and spells. He couldn't help but express his skepticism.

"Actually, the extent of the modification is truly not great," Ji Yuan replied. "Although your original Water Element Spirit Gathering Formation, Senior Ying, appeared simple, it possessed both intricate structure and profound subtlety. I merely utilized the wondrous laws of heaven and earth to attempt to expand the world within the Spirit River and integrate the power of the stars. Water, being the source of life and capable of mirroring reflections, is perfectly suited for this purpose."

Ji Yuan's explanation was straightforward, and the old dragon conceded. However, the true essence lay in the shift in conventional thinking and the mastery of the wondrous laws of heaven and earth. This undertaking, involving the Cloud Mountain Star-Gazing Banner and the magic tome, collectively transformed the spiritual energy and stellar influence of the area, a feat far from simple.

The changes might not be apparent in a year or two, nor even significant after a decade or several. However, after a century or more, the entire spiritual environment of Cloud Mountain and its surroundings will be profoundly altered. Yet, due to the celestial stars' harmonious response, it would be exceptionally difficult for anyone without heightened perception or mastery of the wondrous laws of heaven and earth to discern its extraordinary nature.

"Heh, heh, though gentle and gradual," the old dragon lauded, "it is precisely this quality that makes it more effective and enduring. Yet, a method capable of 'changing heaven and earth' is described so casually by you, Mr. Ji!"

The old dragon's praise concluded as he watched Qin Zizhou step out of the Spirit River's bounds and walk towards them.

Ji Yuan, however, felt undeserving of the old dragon's compliments, or perhaps even too humble to accept them.

"Please, Senior Ying, don't speak like that," Ji Yuan demurred. "Even the original Water Element Spirit Gathering Formation, if maintained for a hundred or several hundred years, would be sufficient to manifest a truly enduring Spirit River, wouldn't that also constitute a sacred land?"

The old dragon retorted.

"Such spiritual sacred lands are not uncommon in this world; there's little to compare. However, star rivers are a rarity; it's possible this could be the only one once it's fully established here."

"See?" Ji Yuan chuckled, "It's precisely because of its rarity!"

"Alright, alright, you two, let's not bicker over such matters," Qin Zizhou interjected. "Both are indeed methods that can change the very fabric of existence!"

Qin Zizhou promptly stepped in to mediate.

A short while later, the Spirit River gradually vanished, transforming into a thin nocturnal mist that diffused into the surroundings. In the future, it would periodically re-emerge as mist; Cloud Mountain, after all, was never lacking in clouds, so no one would pay it undue attention.

Daoist Qingsong and Daoist Qingyuan, master and disciple, were still envisioning the future of Cloud Mountain Temple's gate, dreaming if it might someday become a blessed land or grotto-heaven. Little did they know, the three distinguished figures had already set their grand designs in motion.

Setting aside otherworldly grotto-heavens, even blessed or spiritual lands are never created overnight. Countless immortal mansions and sacred sects have achieved their present glory through the accumulated efforts of generations of disciples. While the cultivation environment is but one component of their endeavors, it nonetheless highlights the scope of such undertakings.

With these tasks complete, the affairs concerning Cloud Mountain Temple were finally concluded.

Upon their return to Cloud Mountain Temple, as it was deep into the night and Qi Xuan and Qi Wen were sound asleep, the three decided not to disturb them. Qin Zizhou remained at the temple to continue his cultivation, while Ji Yuan and the old dragon took their leave. With Qin Zizhou bowing respectfully from the main hall of the temple, they ascended into the sky on clouds.

Shortly after, high above Cloud Mountain, Ji Yuan and the old dragon paused briefly. The old dragon then posed a question to Ji Yuan.

"Mr. Ji, what are your plans next?" he inquired. "Do you intend to return to your home in Jizhou for a time, or would you consider visiting my abode?"

Ji Yuan had initially considered bringing up the matter of Yuexiu Island, but decided against it, knowing it was a private family affair and having a good understanding of the old dragon's rational temperament. Instead, he candidly shared his immediate plans.

"I may return to Ju'an Pavilion for a while," Ji Yuan replied, "but I must first visit Jade Embrace Mountain. From there, I might travel to Northern Hengzhou, and if the timing is right, I'll also visit an old friend."

The old dragon appeared slightly puzzled.

"Northern Realm? Why go there?"

"Senior Ying, have you heard of the Immortal Gathering at Nine Peaks Mountain?"

The old dragon paused to consider.

"Oh, yes, this sixty-year cycle, it's being held at Nine Peaks Mountain."

"Precisely. Are you interested in attending?"

The old dragon grinned.

"Heh, heh," he chuckled, "as a demon, I'd hardly find comfort at an Immortal Gathering. I'll pass. You go if you wish; I have my own affairs to attend to."

Ji Yuan's expression turned serious.

"Is this related to the incident with that spotted dragon from last time?"

"It's part of it, yes, but the demon race is far too complex, and it's connected to the Black Wasteland. We'll have to see what comes of that creature we deliberately allowed to escape."

At this, the old dragon cupped his hands in a gesture of farewell towards Ji Yuan.

"In that case, let us part ways here. This journey to Cloud Mountain has truly been an eye-opener and a source of relaxation for this old one. I shall visit you again another day!"

Ji Yuan returned the bow.

"Or I can always visit Tongtian River another day!"

"Farewell!"

"Until next time!"

The old dragon departed first, transforming into a shadowy dragon form that rolled away amidst the wind and clouds. Ji Yuan remained standing on the clouds for a moment, then also turned and headed towards Jizhou.

As he traveled through the sky, Ji Yuan's consciousness simultaneously observed the chess-piece-like stars in the celestial expanse within his mental landscape of mountains and rivers. Some of these stars were ethereal, some tangible, some brilliant, others dim. Among them, the two representing Cloud Mountain Temple shone particularly bright.

These two particular "chess pieces" did not symbolize Qi Xuan and Qi Wen; rather, one represented Qin Zizhou, and the other accounted for the entire Daoist lineage of Cloud Mountain Temple.

The instance of a single individual not being represented by a sole "chess piece" had occurred before, specifically with the descendants of the Zuo family. This time, it was for Cloud Mountain Temple.

Ji Yuan's thoughts lingered on this for a while, contemplating his current knowledge and insights. Before he realized it, he had returned to Jizhou, finding himself just outside Ning'an County, where the sun was already high in the sky.

Descending from the clouds, he landed a few miles outside the county and began slowly walking back towards Ning'an County. He reasoned that many people in Ning'an County still recognized him, and after such a long absence, it would be better not to appear too suddenly.

However, Ji Yuan's concerns proved to be unfounded. Nearly a decade had passed since he last left Ning'an County. While ten years might not seem long for cultivators, for the ordinary residents of Ning'an County, it was ample time for myriad changes to occur.

It was already cold in November, and a faint northern wind whistled, causing Ji Yuan's hair to flutter and his clothes to ripple. He walked alone on the road a few miles outside Ning'an County, appreciating the continued tranquility of the area.

The sound of a cart's axle rumbled from behind him. A farmer, clad in a padded jacket, approached, driving a simple ox cart with a makeshift canopy. Noticing the rather thinly dressed individual walking ahead, he called out.

"Sir, are you perhaps headed to Ning'an County? It's difficult to travel on foot in this biting cold; would you like me to give you a ride?"

"Whoa... whoa..."

The farmer inquired while simultaneously urging his ox to slow its pace.

Ji Yuan turned to look at the man. Though the cart appeared open to the elements, he wasn't deterred by discomfort; he simply preferred to walk.

"Many thanks for your kindness, brother," Ji Yuan replied, "but I prefer to walk."

"Oh, very well then. I'll be on my way?"

Ji Yuan smiled and cupped his hands, making no attempt to detain him.

The farmer observed the refined man, whose face bore no signs of discomfort from the biting cold, confirming he wasn't merely putting on a brave front. With a flick of his rope whip, he nudged the ox twice and continued on his way.

Approximately fifteen minutes later, Ji Yuan arrived at Ning'an County town. From the city gate, he walked directly towards Tianniu Square. Along the way, he had anticipated being recognized and greeted, but to his surprise, no one seemed to know him.

The shouts of street vendors, the chatter of conversations, and the solicitous calls from shops filled the air incessantly. Many eyes fell upon Ji Yuan, but these sounds and gazes were not those typically directed at a familiar local. It was possible that some had known him previously, but after so many years, even the memories of close relatives would fade, let alone for Ji Yuan.

Upon reaching the outskirts of Tianniu Square, Ji Yuan's spirits lifted as he spotted the sign for Sun's Noodle Stall. Through his somewhat blurry vision, he could see the stall was still in its familiar spot, and its inviting aroma remained just as he remembered.

Ji Yuan quickened his steps, soon arriving at the stall where several customers were already enjoying their noodles. He approached and inquired,

"Shopkeeper, do you still have braised noodles?"

Sun Fu, whose temples were streaked with gray, was tidying utensils. Hearing the question, he looked up to see a refined gentleman and promptly replied,

"Yes, yes, we have braised noodles, and mutton offal as well."

Ji Yuan smiled, settling into his customary seat.

"Excellent. I'll have a bowl of braised noodles and a bowl of mixed offal."

"Coming right up!"

Ji Yuan let out a soft breath, observing the other diners. Some were indeed watching him, and when he met their gaze, they instinctively lowered their heads to their bowls.

Besides observing the distinguished Mr. Ji himself, the diners' attention was drawn primarily to the translucent ink-jade hairpin adorning his head. Even those who couldn't discern its true worth knew it was an item of considerable value.

Near the noodle stall, a small girl, approximately seven or eight years old, was playfully swinging a dry twig. Noticing Ji Yuan looking in her direction, she immediately stopped and adopted a demure posture.

"Little girl, what is your name?"

Sun Fu glanced at the little girl, then smiled at Ji Yuan.

"Sir," he said, "her name is Sun Yaya; she's my granddaughter."

"Oh, she's your granddaughter..."

Ji Yuan's brow furrowed slightly. With a subtle flick of his sleeve, he discreetly performed a quick divination with his right hand concealed within. He now knew that old man Sun had passed away long ago, a fact Lu Shanjun had known but not mentioned to him at the time.

"Ah..."

"Sir, your noodles and mixed offal are ready!"

Sun Fu carried the tray, placing the food before Ji Yuan. Noticing Ji Yuan's sigh, he ventured to ask,

"Sir, you must be from out of town, aren't you? What causes you to sigh?"

Ji Yuan thanked him and responded,

"Nothing, I was just thinking of an old acquaintance."

With that, he picked up his chopsticks and began to eat. The flavor of the noodles and offal was almost identical to what old man Sun had prepared years ago.

He recalled that when Sun Fu had first taken over the noodle stall from his father, the taste was somewhat lacking. Now, it was clear he had fully inherited the authentic craft.

"Excellent, it's still the same flavor!"

Sun Fu had merely uttered "Oh," and was about to turn away, but Ji Yuan's words once again captured his attention.

"Excuse me, sir, have you eaten my noodles before?"

Sun Fu now scrutinized Ji Yuan more closely. He had initially assumed the gentleman was in his thirties, but upon a second look, his age became difficult to pinpoint. His countenance was elegant, possessing an air of seniority, making his true age hard to determine.

"Heh, heh, yes, I have," Ji Yuan chuckled. "And I've eaten your father's too."

Ji Yuan replied simply, then returned to savoring his noodles. Sun Fu, however, frowned deeply in thought, occasionally casting glances at Ji Yuan.

He returned to his counter, still deeply puzzled, when his gaze incidentally fell upon a wooden sign hanging on the wooden door of the cart. Inked characters were carved into it, reading "Reserve one portion."

In that instant, realization dawned upon Sun Fu. He abruptly looked up at Ji Yuan, and with an incredulous voice, blurted out, "You... you are Mr. Ji!?"