Chapter 958: Chapter 416: Quasi-Fifth Rank Spirit Wood; Spirit Vein Upgrade

"Oh?"

Xu Ping’s eyes immediately lit up upon hearing the words.

If he obtains this Pill, it would be an enormous boost not only for himself but also for Duan Shuang.

However, Shan Tianyou’s next words were like a cold shower.

"Yet, while the Pill is marvelous, it also has significant flaws."

Shan Tianyou gave a bitter smile, his expression becoming solemn, "First, this Pill can only aid in breakthroughs, and its success rate is not very high."

"Secondly, and most critically, during the refining of this Pill, it requires the joint efforts of three cultivators, using the ’Threefold Apex’ technique for assistance!"

"One of them must be a Late-Stage Nascent Soul Cultivator as the lead, with two Mid-Stage Nascent Soul Cultivators assisting."

"Those two mid-stage cultivators are still alright, as it only consumes a large amount of Mana, but the leading late-stage cultivator..."

Shan Tianyou paused and continued, "needs to consume their own lifespan and Original True Essence to guide the Pill’s power, aiding the user in breaking through the barrier!"

"Moreover, even if one manages to breakthrough with this Pill, their foundation would be affected by it, almost severing any chance of advancing further in the future."

Xu Ping listened, his brows tightly knit: "Are the flaws really that severe?"

Fourth Rank Upper Grade True Dragon Essence Blood, along with other precious materials, plus a Late-Stage Nascent Soul Cultivator’s lifespan and True Essence, all gambled for an uncertain breakthrough chance, which could sever future path.

For a great sect like Mystic Water Sect, unless it is a last resort or an all-in gamble, such a drastic measure wouldn’t be taken.

"I hope Fellow Daoist Xu can fulfill this!"

Shan Tianyou stood up, solemnly cupping his hands to Xu Ping, "I know this request is abrupt, but I’m willing to offer two segments of Fourth Rank Middle Grade Spirit Vein as a token of appreciation."

"Two segments of Fourth Rank Middle Grade Spirit Vein?"

Xu Ping’s heart stirred.

If he obtains this, the Spirit Vein at Blood Bone Island might be upgraded to mid-stage Fourth Rank peak.

At that time, the concentration of Spiritual Qi in his cave’s core area, aided by the Spirit Gathering Array, could barely touch the threshold of Fourth Rank Upper Grade.

The benefits to his cultivation would be enormous.

In comparison, the loss of some blood by the Golden Spirit Mouse could slightly hurt its Primordial Qi, but it can be restored with proper nurturing.

Weighing the pros and cons, this matter can be done.

Xu Ping pondered for a moment, and finally nodded: "Since Fellow Daoist Shan has made a sincere request, if I were to refuse, it would seem rather unkind." 𝒻𝓇𝑒𝘦𝘸𝑒𝒷𝓃ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝒸ℴ𝘮

"Alright, this matter I agree to."

Shan Tianyou was overjoyed, continually expressing his gratitude: "Thank you, Fellow Daoist Xu, Mystic Water Sect will remember this favor!"

Xu Ping waved his hand and said: "No need to be so polite, but the Golden Spirit Mouse is currently not on the island and needs to be summoned back, which will take some time."

"No problem, no problem, I will patiently await good news."

Shan Tianyou quickly expressed there was no rush.

This matter is important, but not extremely urgent.

After exchanging some casual remarks with Shan Tianyou, Xu Ping suddenly changed the topic and calmly spoke:

"Senior Shan, for the upcoming Threefold Apex of your sect, I wish to volunteer as one of the assisting cultivators, may I?"

"Oh?"

Shan Tianyou was clearly taken aback by Xu Ping’s offer, a hint of surprise flashing across his face.

But soon, Shan Tianyou’s face broke into a warm smile and he agreed readily: "Young Friend Xu’s willingness to assist is a blessing for Mystic Water Sect, we couldn’t ask for more,"

Xu Ping’s capabilities are profound, his Mana far surpassing that of peers; with his joining, it might increase the chances of success in the apex ceremony.

"In that case, I must thank Senior Shan for fulfilling my wish." Xu Ping smiled with hands in salute.

His request was not made without aims.

The primary purpose was to closely and comprehensively observe and experience the details of this Threefold Apex Secret Technique.

This technique is crucial for a cultivator’s breakthrough to the Late-Stage Nascent Soul, with profound mysteries.

Though he is confident in his own breakthrough, he needs to prepare more for Duan Shuang.

If he can grasp this technique, no matter whether he uses his powerful Mana to assist Duan Shuang’s breakthrough or finds other natural and earthly treasures to pave the way, he would be more assured.

Considered a most reliable fallback route for her.

The two then discussed the specific timing, procedures, precautions, and other details related to the apex ceremony.

Seeing that Xu Ping asked meticulously and knowing that he was taking it seriously, Shan Tianyou was happy to provide detailed answers.

Finally, Shan Tianyou took his leave satisfied, preparing related matters.

After sending Shan Tianyou off, Xu Ping pondered for a moment and transmitted a thought through the Divine Sense imprint planted on the Divine Soul of the Golden Spirit Mouse, summoning it to return.

...

Half a year later.

An Escape Light descended upon Blood Bone Island, familiarly entering the underground cave, it was the long unseen Golden Spirit Mouse.

"Master."

The Golden Spirit Mouse smiled ingratiatingly.

Xu Ping nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping across its body.

At this moment, the Golden Spirit Mouse’s aura had thoroughly stabilized at Fourth Rank Upper Grade, and the dragon’s might emitted was faintly stronger than before.

It seems it had gained plenty of benefits among the Golden Spirit Mouse’s clan.

Xu Ping didn’t beat around the bush, directly getting to the point: "Summoning you back mainly to have you voluntarily contribute some blood essence."

Fourth Rank Upper Grade Dragon Race blood essence, this is extremely precious in the outer sea.

Even finding a late-stage cultivator, it’s hard to acquire.

"Contribute blood essence?"

The smile on the Golden Spirit Mouse’s face instantly fell, becoming extremely bitter.

However, it dared not refuse and could only grudgingly and reluctantly force out a pure and rich dragon blood essence.

"Not bad."

Xu Ping nodded satisfactorily, reaching out with a gesture to collect this blood essence into a prepared Jade Bottle.

Fourth Rank Upper Grade Dragon Race blood essence, this is extremely precious among the outer sea.

One reason is its value, but mainly, nobody dares to touch the true dragons of the True Dragon Hall’s lineage.