The Transmigrator's Cultivation

Chapter 35.2 - Arc 3: Disaster at Sea | Chapter 35: Zhang Jiu

Translator: Lynn

As the alcohol flowed into their mouths, a rich and velvety aroma enveloped their throats, delivering a simultaneous sensation of spiciness and sweetness, lingering long after each sip. Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but purse his lips, his impatience evident.

Amused by Xu Ziqing’s reaction, Zhang Jiu laughed and raised the jug to refill their cups. “Another round!”

Xu Ziqing smiled and agreed, “Let’s go!”

In a short period, they had already consumed half of the jar of wine.

A slight rosy tint colored Xu Ziqing’s face as he gazed out at the vast expanse of sea and sky. The openness of the surroundings expanded his mind, dispelling any worries that might have lingered.

Zhang Jiu, not being particularly talkative while drinking, observed Xu Ziqing’s radiant expression and spoke with a smile, “Brother Xu, may I ask… how old are you?”

Xu Ziqing’s gentle smile remained as he replied, “I am a little over 18.”

Zhang Jiu appeared slightly surprised as he examined Xu Ziqing. “Brother Xu is truly exceptional.”

But Xu Ziqing shook his head. “I cannot dismiss the role of ‘fate’.” He continued, “How many cultivators haven’t had some peculiar encounter?” He left it at that.

Zhang Jiu turned his gaze toward the sea and let out a sigh. “It’s a shame that I am confined to this enclosure. Otherwise, with my strength, I could have caught a few good fish, roasted them over a fire, and enjoyed them with wine. That would have been a real treat!”

Agreeing, Xu Ziqing added, “Indeed, it is a pity. But the sea is treacherous, and this protection is necessary for our safety.”

As they spoke, it was already noon.

Although they didn’t adhere to the conventional three meals daily like ordinary people, hunger would eventually catch up. On this spirit ship, which took several days to cross two continents, cultivators relicts ship provisions to satisfy their needs, though they had to pay for the meals.

As the time came, a few innate welcomed the passengers disembarking from the ferry.

Liu Sheng received Xu Ziqing, so he approached him. The innates ignored Zhang Jiu, being both unattractive and having a low cultivation level.

Having witnessed Xu Ziqing and Zhang Jiu drinking and conversing happily, though still harboring disdain for Zhang Jiu, Liu Sheng didn’t show it openly.

With a slightly intoxicated smile, Xu Ziqing’s reactions were sluggish as he asked, “…What would you like?”

He continued, “I’d like a good portion of grains and ten pounds of meat and vegetables. No need to worry about the price, just keep count.”

Xu Ziqing’s gaze was a little hazy, but he remained conscious and attempted to take out his jade brick. “Brother Zhang, I can’t accept this… I just drank your wine…”

Zhang Jiu waved his hand dismissively. “I’m glad to have made a friend today. If you insist on being so polite, it’s as if you don’t consider me a friend.” Though he spoke these words, he didn’t sound offended.

Xu Ziqing couldn’t calculate such matters, so he chuckled at Zhang Jiu’s words. “Let’s take advantage of each other, Brother Zhang. I’ll have the opportunity to treat you in the future, so don’t hesitate to come.”

Zhang Jiu laughed heartily and readily agreed.

However, deep down, both of them knew that despite their newfound camaraderie, their encounter was brief. The world was vast, and the path to immortality was perilous. Once they disembarked from the spirit ship, they might never cross paths again.

After finishing their meal, Xu Ziqing’s mind was already a bit clouded. The wine had been crafted to entice cultivators, making it hard to resist. Having never touched a drop of alcohol in his two lives, Xu Ziqing naturally succumbed to its effects on his first taste.

Observing Xu Ziqing stumble, Zhang Jiu packed up his belongings and tried to assist him with a smile.

Xu Ziqing refused the help, and despite feeling lightheaded and unsteady on his feet, he managed to walk steadily.

Seeing his determination, Zhang Jiu had no choice but to accompany him to the door of his room and only left when Xu Ziqing entered.

Once the door closed, Xu Ziqing collapsed onto the bed, lying on his back, his face flushed and carrying the scent of wine.

Suddenly, a white figure materialized near the bed, its imposing presence casting a large shadow. It glanced towards the door and then coldly observed the handsome, drunken boy on the bed, remaining silent.

Xu Ziqing was in a daze, not quite asleep. In his half-conscious state, he caught a glimpse of a corner of white clothing, prompting him to open his eyes and call out with a hint of drunkenness, “…Brother Yun?”

The white figure moved closer but remained silent.

Xu Ziqing chuckled softly, “I made a new friend today, and my heart is filled with joy.” He turned his head to the side, and his voice tinged with confusion. “Brother Yun?”

Yun Lie stated, “This person poses no harm to you so that you can befriend them.”

Xu Ziqing’s handsome face, resembling jade, grew increasingly radiant with a lighter smile. “Brother Yun is right.” He tilted his head, gazing at the shadow in front of him. “Does Brother Yun enjoy drinking?”

Yun Lie responded, “I never indulge in wine.”

Xu Ziqing felt a twinge of disappointment and sighed, “If only I could share a drink with Brother Yun…” The end of his sentence trailed off without further words.

Yun Lie averted his gaze and then vanished without a trace.

The night passed without any dreams.

The following day, Xu Ziqing awoke and recalled the events of the previous night when he had indulged in drinks with Zhang Jiu. He couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty for getting drunk and dragging his good friend into rambling conversations.

His friend was a sword practitioner, possessing a strong will and never allowing himself to be swayed by external factors. His heart was as steady as a rock, and he disliked the idea of wine clouding his mind.

Without dwelling too much on it, Xu Ziqing rose from his bed. Surprisingly, despite waking up intoxicated, he didn’t experience a splitting headache or feel weak and sore.

As he opened the door to his room, the lingering scent of alcohol had already dissipated. Feeling refreshed, Xu Ziqing stepped out of his cabin to once again enjoy the sea view.

On the deck, the ancestors were still present, standing by. However, the disciples of the Nine Star Sea Sect, who were previously steering the shi,p had been replaced, allowing them to rest. After all, this was a spiritual ship, and the consumption of spiritual power over a day and night was considerable.

Xu Ziqing stood at the ship’s edge, gazing into the distance where the calm winds and soft waves created a serene atmosphere.

“Brother Xu, did you sleep well last night?” A hearty laugh resounded from the rear of the ship, followed by the distinct sound of approaching footsteps.

“Brother Zhang,” Xu Ziqing turned around with a smile. “The wine was intoxicating, so naturally, I slept extremely well.”

Zhang Jiu walked up to him, sporting a smile. “There’s still plenty of wine left. If you enjoy it, why not have some more today?”

Xu Ziqing didn’t decline. “Yes, this wine is truly captivating. It lingers on the palate.”

Zhang Jiu didn’t mind. “If you like it, I’ll give you a few jars. I don’t have much else, but I have an abundance of this wine. Today, let’s switch to ‘Immortal’s Fragrance,’ so you can savor it delightfully!”

This Immortal’s Fragrance was more potent than the Hundred Quenching Fragrance. When it entered the throat, the spicy flavor transformed into a sweet aroma, followed by a surge of heat rushing to the head, creating a floating sensation. It was indeed a remarkable concoction capable of intoxicating even immortals.

The two of them raised their glasses and took a sip.

Although Zhang Jiu continued to wear a happy smile, Xu Ziqing sensed that something was amiss and felt a bit puzzled.

He inquired, “Brother Zhang, if something is bothering you, perhaps you can share it with me.”

Zhang Jiu appeared hesitant before placing a protective barrier around them. Then he spoke, “Brother Xu since we’ve recognized each other at first sight, there’s no need for me to hide anything from you.” Letting out a sigh, he continued, “I came from Upper Quzhou to go to Upper Yuzhou due to the recent conflict between two families in Upper Quzhou. I got injured, and being a casual practitioner, I couldn’t find peace there.”

Xu Ziqing listened attentively, refraining from interrupting.

Zhang Jiu went on, “I’ve always been fond of drinking, so last night, even though you were drunk, I remained sober and had another drink in my room. Unexpectedly, I overheard a commotion from the adjacent room.”

Xu Ziqing realized the significance of this. But how could he hear what was happening on the spirit ship when it was strictly forbidden?

Observing Xu Ziqing’s confusion, Zhang Jiu explained, “Brother Xu, you may not know this, but I was born with an ugly face. However, my hearing is exceptional, and ordinary restrictions cannot hinder me.” Seeing that Xu Ziqing showed no signs of surprise, he continued, “I caught every word of the commotion, and I discovered that the people who never left their cabins were actually members of the Tian family who instigated everything!”

Xu Ziqing’s pupils suddenly contracted, and his heart began to race!

Zhang Jiu continued speaking, “So, this member of the Tian family went to Upper Yuzhou seeking the assistance of a high-level Thunderfire School cultivator who specializes in lightning techniques. Their goal was to annihilate every member of the Xu family!”

Xu Ziqing was shocked internally but tried his best to maintain a composed demeanor. “The Thunderfire Sect is one of the top three sects on land. How did the Tian family establish such a connection with them?”

Zhang Jiu explained, “If it were just the Tian family alone, they would only have a few Foundation Establishment cultivators at most, and the Thunderfire Sect wouldn’t pay them much attention. But the key is, they colluded with…”

Curious, Xu Ziqing asked, “Colluded with whom?”

Zhang Jiu lowered his voice, “Colluded with the sea beasts!”

Xu Ziqing was taken aback. How could this seemingly unrelated matter involve the Deep Sea Overlord?

Seeing Xu Ziqing’s shocked expression, Zhang Jiu hastened his explanation.

Only then did Xu Ziqing realize that the Tian family’s animosity toward him wasn’t solely due to the Xu family rejecting the marriage proposal. Their plans had been in motion for years.

Before Tian Cheng became the head of the Tian family, he had somehow befriended a fourth-ranked demonic beast from the deep sea. Through their encounters, they formed an understanding with Mu Zhenhai, a Thunderfire School master who was on the verge of completing the Foundation Establishment stage. After Tian Cheng assumed leadership of the Tian family through great efforts, he concealed his true intentions while maintaining secret dealings with that man and beast.

Many years later, Tian Cheng’s position was secure, and the Foundation Establishment expert had successfully advanced to the peak Foundation Establishment stage. At this point, the three parties reconvened and devised a plan.

Firstly, the peak Foundation Establishment stage expert acquired valuable medicinal herbs from the fourth-ranked demonic beasts in the deep sea and concocted a pill capable of rapidly enhancing cultivation. This pill was then given to Tian Cheng.

Tian Cheng’s ambitions were to overpower rival clans, become the dominant cultivation family in the Haotian realm, and seize control of the secret realm of Linyuan. In exchange, the fourth-ranked demonic beast promised to offer one of the Paths to the Sea to the Thunderfire Sect if it could secure the position of dominant master. As for Mu Zhenhai, who had already broken through to the peak Foundation Establishment stage, he desired the Path to the Sea to gain a higher position within the sect and obtain substantial benefits.

The agreement was promptly reached, and Tian Cheng began seeking opportunities to provoke conflict.

The battle between the two families commenced, and as both sides fought desperately, they sought external assistance. Tian Cheng invited Mu Zhenhai to join his cause, but the Xu family might not be as fortunate.

Realizing the significance of the matter, Tian Cheng understood that those competing with Mu Zhenhai within the Thunderfire Sect would not easily detect their hidden intentions. Therefore, after some consideration, Tian Cheng sent his trusted follower to the Thunderfire Sect, bearing numerous precious gifts. He extended a personal invitation to Mu Zhenhai, inviting him to a birthday banquet. It was during the fierce competition among the Tian family members to be the first to show their faces that Zhang Jiu overheard their conversation and pieced together the entire plot.

Zhang Jiu had no knowledge that the entire Xu family was under their control. It was evident that if the Tian family were to approach the Thunderfire Sect, they would undoubtedly achieve their goals, putting the Xu family in grave danger!

Understanding the purpose behind Zhang Jiu’s revelation, Xu Ziqing couldn’t ignore the gravity of the situation. When they first met, Xu Ziqing openly revealed his name, so if Zhang Jiu had any knowledge about the Xu family, he would likely deduce Xu Ziqing’s true identity. As they had known each other for only two days, they couldn’t directly discuss the matter. Hence, this became an opportunity for Zhang Jiu to disclose everything he knew.

As Zhang Jiu finished speaking, he observed the expression on Xu Ziqing’s face and knew that he had grasped the underlying message. Without further questions, he poured wine for Xu Ziqing once again, and they drank together.

Xu Ziqing’s mind wandered, contemplating his intricate involvement with the Xu family. It would be incorrect to say that he despised them, but he didn’t truly feel a sense of belonging either. After careful consideration, he decided to set aside these thoughts for the time being.

While they continued to drink, the boat reached a turbulent region filled with undercurrents, marking the midway point between the two continents.

The disciples of the Nine Star Sea Sect immediately warned, “We are about to enter the rapids, so please be cautious!”

Their cautionary words didn’t indicate immediate danger, but rather the need to keep themselves grounded. If they weren’t careful, the force of the spirit boat could propel them upwards, resulting in an embarrassing situation.

Zhang Jiu and Xu Ziqing exchanged glances and smiled, using their own spiritual energy to anchor themselves tightly to the boat’s surface. As long as the ship remained intact, they would be safe.

These experienced disciples of the Nine Star Sea Sect were skilled in navigating such rapids. Although the current inevitably swept the boat, it avoided hitting reefs, and the ride remained relatively smooth.

After enduring some minor turbulence, they were nearly halfway through the rapids, with a whirlpool lying ahead. The water flowed in all directions, presenting a strenuous challenge. Nevertheless, the disciples remained spirited, hoping to successfully navigate through.

However, as they approached the whirlpool, something unexpected occurred. The spirit boat was suddenly struck, causing it to lurch and spin violently. A powerful spiritual force seemed to be targeting them directly. Although most of it was blocked by the spirit boat, the impact was still formidable.

Due to his lower cultivation level, Zhang Jiu’s body swayed violently, but Xu Ziqing managed to stabilize him by grabbing his arm. The boat continued to be buffeted by intense crashes, with the hull partially submerged and the bow jutting high. Shields emerged, emitting a vibrant light that grew brighter with each blow, rippling like waves.

In the midst of the chaos, numerous cultivators rushed out of the cabin, their faces filled with terror. Some struggled to maintain their balance. This time, it wasn’t merely the force of water, but rather a spiritual energy assault that rendered them unconscious upon impact.

Xu Ziqing supported Zhang Jiu, but the successive shocks overwhelmed them. Although the shield prevented any physical harm, the disruptive spiritual energy caused disorder and made it difficult for Xu Ziqing to control his own energy.

Gripping the boat’s railing, Zhang Jiu shouted, “The sea beasts are on the move!”

In response, Xu Ziqing glanced outside and gasped in astonishment.

He witnessed sea beasts emerging from the swirling, turbulent waters in large numbers. Their heads appeared from eddies of various sizes, creating a dense and overwhelming sight.

A quick estimate revealed hundreds of them, and their aura indicated they were all demonic beasts with cultivations surpassing the first rank. Leading the group were numerous second-ranked demonic beasts lurking beneath the ocean’s surface ahead.

Xu Ziqing, at the seventh level of Qi refinement, possessed considerable strength, but he was ultimately on par with a second-ranked demonic beast. If there were only one or two of them, he might have been able to handle the situation, but the sheer number of beasts here, combined with his own experiences, instilled a tinge of fear within him.

Throughout his years, Xu Ziqing had never encountered such a scenario. If not for his previous brushes with life and death, he would have felt as desperate as many other cultivators in this perilous situation.

The moment I witnessed this, I exclaimed, “What an extraordinary individual! It’s the first time I’ve encountered a traitor from the Jiao1Jiao: a legendary dragon with the ability to control rain and floods Clan, Shark Clan, Python Clan, Whale Clan, and Yulong2Yulong: a winged dragon and rain deity in ancient Chinese Mythology. Clan tribes!”

Upon hearing my remark, Xu Ziqing glanced at me curiously and asked, “Brother Zhang?”

Eyes gleaming with excitement, I replied, “I have traveled extensively and learned about sea creatures. The sea is home to numerous clans under the dominion of deep-sea overlords. While many groups may belong to the same species, they do not necessarily submit to the same overlord. There are distinct branches among them.”

Understanding my point, Xu Ziqing nodded and agreed, “That makes sense.”

Despite my lower cultivation level and the hardships I’ve faced, fear didn’t overcome me. I pointed my finger toward the group of demonic beasts and said, “Brother Xu, take a look.”

Xu Ziqing turned his gaze in that direction as instructed.

I continued, “If these sea creatures were from different branches under different overlords, they would move in smaller groups, organized with soldiers and leaders. However, if you observe closely, each of these sea creatures bears different characteristics. For example, the red devil python, fire-headed python, copper-eyed python, blood-flame shark, giant god shark, and steel rock shark… They belong to the same species of pythons and sharks, but they are distinct branches. Seeing them gathered together like this is significant.”

As Xu Ziqing pondered over my words, realization dawned upon him. He muttered, “This is quite challenging…”

I nodded with a grin, saying, “That’s what I surmised. Since the Thunderfire Sect intends to seize the Way of the Tonghai, there must be a reason. These sea creatures have likely come to thwart their plans…” Pausing for a moment, I added, “And I’m certain there is more than just this group. The higher the casualties, the greater the blow to the Nine Star Sea Sect’s reputation. It’s truly a cunning scheme!”

Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but sigh at my words. Even as he embarked on the path of immortality, he couldn’t rid himself of greed. If these forces were driven solely by profit, countless cultivators would fall victim to their schemes.

While contemplating this, the spirit ship endured another fierce blow. Although the vessel wouldn’t be destroyed, the once-strong shields might falter. Additionally, the ship’s maneuverability and the durability of the shields depended on the Nine Star Sea Sect disciples, who operated them.

Xu Ziqing’s concerns were valid, as the demonic beasts had precisely this intention. The shields were already strained from the constant impacts, and the disciples struggled to maintain their balance.

Operating a spirit ship was a challenging task. It required releasing spirit energy smoothly and accurately executing numerous spells. But how could they accomplish such a delicate job in this explosive situation?

Fortunately, the disciples of the Nine Star Sea Sect were skilled individuals, far superior to other cultivators who were stumbling and falling. Despite the boat’s swaying and lurching, they managed to keep their footing on the deck. While not all of them could fully exert their strength, they formed pairs, supporting and steadying each other, allowing one to navigate the ship while the other remained protected.

Since the disciples often worked shifts during sea voyages, their numbers were considerable.

Unfortunately, this cooperation didn’t last long. Suddenly, a loud boom resonated, accompanied by a massive splash of waves. The beasts grew increasingly frenzied. Some whales dove beneath the sea surface, using their immense bodies to slam against the ship from below, displaying their formidable strength.

That wasn’t the only surprise. A peculiar sound emerged.

“Chi Chi Chi—”

Xu Ziqing’s vision darkened as a thick, greenish fluid gushed out, pelting the shield on their side and obscuring their view. Simultaneously, the corrosive liquid ate away at the ship’s shield, emitting black poisonous smoke. It wasn’t an illusion—after the successive impacts of this toxic substance, the spiritual light on the shield visibly dimmed.

Zhang Jiu exclaimed, “It’s a potent poison!”

The poisons found in the mortal world couldn’t harm cultivators, but demonic beast toxins were a different matter. The more powerful ones could dissolve a cultivator’s flesh and even harm their soul, reducing them to mere blood. Some poisons had the ability to damage magical treasures and nullify spiritual light, making them incredibly dangerous.

The poison they encountered this time was brewed by a poisonous beast that had stored it in its poison sac for many years. If this continued, the shield wouldn’t be able to protect them much longer.

Soon, not only our side but also the other shields were sprayed with poison, causing panic among the monks.

After contemplating for a moment, I summoned two blue leaves beneath my feet, slowly lifting me off the ground. Within seconds, my feet were hovering just half a foot above the deck. Given the instability of the spirit ship, there was no need for me to stand on it.

As it seemed that Zhang Jiu lacked such means, I couldn’t bring anyone else along. Instead, I positioned myself near Zhang Jiu’s left side, ready to protect him at any moment.

Other monks observed my actions and realized the opportunity. Although caught off guard earlier, they swiftly reacted and followed suit. However, the wind magic couldn’t be sustained for long, and soon, countless colorful lights flashed from the spirit ship.

At this moment, anyone possessing a magic weapon, regardless of how tightly they usually guarded it, unleashed its power in a desperate attempt to survive.

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