Reversed Five Elements Technique

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Hong Fu pondered for a long time, her expression calm. Suddenly, she recalled a technique she had once stolen from the forbidden lands of Xi Country in her early years—one that was perfectly suited for Qi Yuan's Five Elements spiritual roots. Without hesitation, she extended her snow-white jade palm, and a flash of light appeared in her hand.

"Since you are determined to venture into the Blood Forbidden Land, I will give you this top-tier cultivation method, 'Reversing the Five Elements.' With it, you will have a better chance of surviving the dangers within."

Reversing the Five Elements? Could it be related to Qi Yunxiao's Reversed Five Elements Formation?

Qi Yuan's face showed confusion as he asked, "Grandmaster, is this technique related to the Reversed Five Elements Formation?"

"Oh! So you know about the Reversed Five Elements Array…" Hong Fu's bright eyes gleamed with interest. "The Five Elements are not uncommon. Throughout history, many genius cultivators have studied them. However, these techniques often differ in their foundations. The method I am giving you is not connected to Qi Yunxiao's formation. After practicing it, your fundamental magic power will ascend to an entirely new level. Your spiritual sea will become as vast and unshakable as a mountain. Once you reach the Foundation Establishment stage, you will be able to unleash its accompanying ability—the 'Reversed Five Elements Field.' Any cultivator caught within its range will have their strength suppressed, their power reduced by at least thirty percent. However, if they are a full realm above you, its effect will be minimal—at most, you may be able to trap them for a few breaths, barely gaining enough time to escape."

An incredible technique!

Hearing Hong Fu's explanation, Qi Yuan couldn't help but feel elated. He unconsciously moved forward, carefully receiving the jade slip with both hands. As his fingers brushed against Hong Fu's, he felt the soft warmth of her delicate hand, sending a slight ripple through his heart. However, he quickly composed himself, respectfully accepting the jade slip and returning to his seat. "Disciple thanks Master for this generous gift! With this technique, I will certainly navigate the Blood Forbidden Land safely."

"Do not speak such ominous words. For now, you will move into my cave to train. Focus all your efforts on preparing for the journey into the forbidden land. I will inform the utility room of your stay." Hong Fu's snow-white eyes glared at him, but her tone carried warmth. Clearly, her feelings toward Qi Yuan had shifted—no longer just the favor owed to a benefactor's descendant, but a deeper bond, one akin to that of an elder watching over the younger generation.

Qi Yuan was momentarily stunned. This change in their relationship was a significant one—it meant they had moved beyond mere formalities. From now on, he would not have to be overly cautious in her presence.

"Yes, Master. I will uphold your name and return victorious from the forbidden land."

Hong Fu nodded slightly, satisfaction evident in her eyes. The more she observed Qi Yuan, the more she appreciated his composed and resolute demeanor. He was far superior to the man she had once misjudged. A gentle smile graced her lips, adding a touch of radiance to the simple hall.

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Qi Yuan spent some time in Hong Fu's cave before leaving under the pretext of gathering his belongings.

His journey back was uneventful until he found himself stopped in a secluded area by an elderly man in his fifties or sixties. Dressed in black, the old man carried an imposing aura. His slightly graying hair and piercing tiger-like eyes radiated authority. Even without speaking, his presence alone commanded respect.

A single glance was enough to tell that this was no ordinary man—his aura was nearly on par with Hong Fu's. He was most likely a Golden Core stage cultivator.

Qi Yuan immediately cupped his hands in respect. "Grandmaster, how may I be of service?"

The old man chuckled, his gaze sweeping over Qi Yuan. "You're an interesting one."

Qi Yuan offered a polite smile. "Master, you flatter me."

Li Huayuan coughed lightly. "I hear you are no longer selling your elixirs. Is that true?"

"Master Hong Fu has reprimanded me, so I will no longer sell them to outsiders." Qi Yuan had a vague understanding of Li Huayuan's intent.

Li Huayuan clasped his hands behind his back, pacing a few steps before speaking. "Senior Sister Hong Fu is looking out for you. Selling such things indiscriminately will make you many enemies. Let it be. Others will support you, so don't concern yourself too much."

Qi Yuan bowed slightly. "Thank you for your concern, Master. May I ask why you sought me out?"

"Well… do you happen to have any extra of those three elixirs? I'd like to buy some… for gifting purposes." Li Huayuan's expression flickered with discomfort for the briefest moment before returning to normal. Anyone with a dull perception would have missed it entirely.

A gift? I don't believe that for a second…

Qi Yuan knew exactly how potent his elixirs were. They contained refined Yin and Yang energies capable of dramatically accelerating cultivation—far beyond ordinary elixirs. There was no way Li Huayuan was merely giving them away.

In reality, Li Huayuan had his own struggles. His Dao companion was breathtakingly beautiful, and though they had been together for years, he found himself increasingly unable to keep up with her… enthusiasm. Yet, she showed no signs of slowing down, leaving him deeply troubled.

Recently, he had overheard rumors about a miraculous elixir circulating within the sect. Initially, he dismissed it as nonsense, having tried countless similar pills in the past. However, as more and more people whispered of its extraordinary effects, his curiosity got the better of him. He decided to investigate personally rather than risk his reputation by sending a disciple to purchase it.

Qi Yuan realized that having another Golden Core stage ancestor as an ally was invaluable. He no longer worried about spirit stones, but he did need protection. Without hesitation, he retrieved over a dozen bottles of his enhanced elixirs and respectfully offered them. "Grandmaster, these have been refined through multiple improvements. Their potency far surpasses the previous versions. Please accept them."

Li Huayuan's eyes flashed with excitement, but he maintained his composure, waving his sleeve as he collected the bottles with a flick of spiritual energy. "Very well. Do not speak of this to anyone."

"Understood, Master. I will remain silent."

Li Huayuan nodded in satisfaction, tossing a storage pouch to Qi Yuan before vanishing instantly—so swiftly it was as if he had never been there at all.

Qi Yuan exhaled slowly, wiping the sweat from his forehead. Without checking the contents of the storage pouch, he secured it and continued his journey toward the utility room, lost in thought.

As he flew, he accidentally collided with another disciple.

"Apologies, fellow apprentice," Qi Yuan said politely.

"It's nothing, Senior Brother. No harm done," the young man replied softly.

Qi Yuan examined him—an unassuming disciple dressed in the sect's standard robes. His black eyes held a guarded sharpness, and his cultivation level was similar to Qi Yuan's. A name suddenly surfaced in Qi Yuan's mind. "What is your name, Junior Brother? I should prepare some good wine to make amends."

"Han Li," the young man replied calmly. "Thank you for your kindness, Senior Brother, but there's no need. If there is nothing else, I will take my leave."

With that, Han Li turned and flew away.

(End of Chapter)