Chapter 208: It’s Just Water Manipulation

Gulp.

Shi Xiao stared at the water swords surrounding him and couldn’t help but swallow hard.

He couldn’t comprehend how Gu Ning’an had not only severed his connection with the spell using a single water droplet but had also directly seized control of it!

Splash—

The numerous water swords, now encircling Shi Xiao, dissolved back into flowing water and merged with the river’s surface.

Shi Xiao cupped his hands and asked, “Fellow Daoist Gu, your skills are remarkable. What kind of technique did you use to sever my connection with my spell?”

Gu Ning’an responded with a smile, “It’s just water manipulation technique.”

Water manipulation could strip someone of their control over a spell?

Could that even still be called water manipulation?

Hearing this answer, Shi Xiao wasn’t entirely satisfied, but since the other party was unwilling to elaborate, he tactfully chose not to press further.

Since his offensive techniques were inferior, Shi Xiao decided to test his defense instead. He once again cupped his hands, inviting Gu Ning’an to take the initiative this time.

However, what he hadn’t anticipated was that Gu Ning’an merely flicked out another tiny water droplet—instantly sealing his entire flow of spiritual power!

One move and his cultivation was sealed. How was he supposed to continue?

At this moment, Shi Xiao finally understood why the demon fish had no interest in him.

With such a powerful “friend,” there really was no need for it to become anyone’s spiritual pet…

Gu Ning’an casually lifted the restriction on Shi Xiao’s spiritual power and smiled. “Let’s end the sparring here… I have a question I’d like to ask. May I trouble the two of you for some clarification?”

Shi Xiao cupped his hands. “Mr. Gu, please feel free to ask.”

By now, even his form of address had changed—a shift in attitude as well.

In Shi Xiao’s eyes, he was no longer qualified to call the other “Fellow Daoist.”

After all, the difference in their cultivation levels was far too great. Before, when he was unaware, calling him “Fellow Daoist” was fine.

But now that he knew, continuing to do so would only make himself seem ignorant and arrogant…

Gu Ning’an asked with a smile, “May I ask, within the Great Qian, how many immortal sects like yours exist?”

“The so-called True Immortal realm—does it refer to the Three Essences Converging at the Crown?”

Such a basic question still needed to be asked?

Could it be that this gentleman was truly a wandering cultivator?

Shi Xiao paused for a moment before replying, “Three Essences Converging at the Crown refers to a refined control of one’s own state, aligning with the heavens and earth. While it has certain clear manifestations, my master has told me that those who can be called True Immortals are not necessarily at that stage.”

“Conversely, those who have reached that stage are not necessarily True Immortals either.”

“However, my master, as someone in the True Immortal realm, has indeed achieved the Three Essences Converging at the Crown.”

Upon hearing this, Gu Ning’an nodded in thanks and continued, “May I ask where Heavenly Profound Mountain is located? If I get the chance, I’d like to visit your master.”

“This…” Shi Xiao hesitated for a moment before replying, “Heavenly Profound Mountain is located in the eastern region of Great Qian. The tallest mountain in that area is Heavenly Profound Mountain itself.”

“Heavenly Profound Mountain is shrouded by formations and does not exist within the minds of ordinary people. Only if Mr. Gu can unravel its mysteries will he be able to find it.”

The tallest unnamed mountain in the east… Gu Ning’an nodded. “Thank you. If I pass by, I’ll be sure to visit.”

“We shall await your arrival, Sir. When the time comes, I would love to witness a discussion between you and my master—what a grand occasion that would be.”

With that, Shi Xiao cupped his hands in a respectful bow. “Mr. Gu, our journey into the mortal world was undertaken with a mission from our master. Now, with only a few days left, we won’t stay any longer—we must see if we can still fulfill our master’s task in time.”

Gu Ning’an smiled. “Ah, earlier, I overheard you mention needing my handwriting. Were you searching for something wondrous?”

“My handwriting?”

Shi Xiao was stunned for a moment before exclaiming in astonishment, “So the double happiness character glowing with spiritual light at that family’s door was left by you Sir?”

Gu Ning’an nodded. “Indeed.”

Shi Xiao continued, “Then, sir, could you write one for me on the spot? Or perhaps, do you have any item imbued with the principles of the Dao?”

“I can exchange something with you for it.”

Gu Ning’an waved his hand with a smile. “No rush. Tell me in detail, what task did your master assign you?”

Hearing this, Song Ke, who had been unable to get a word in, quickly spoke up. “It’s like this…”

Taking the time of one incense stick, Song Ke explained to Gu Ning’an their master’s instructions regarding the ‘wondrous object’ and their own interpretation of it.

Their master had simply instructed them, “Bring back the most wondrous object during your travels.”

In their understanding, this meant they had to find an object imbued with the principles of the Dao or a rare, virtuous creature like Redtail Fish.

“In my opinion, a so-called wondrous object does not necessarily have to contain the principles of the Dao.”

“Since the two of you have descended the mountain to experience the mortal world, naturally, what you should bring back is something from the mortal world itself.”

“It could be a brush, a pair of chopsticks, or even a piece of clothing you bought…”

“If we’re talking about ‘wondrous,’ the mortal world itself best embodies that concept… If you can’t bring back the mortal world, then just bring back something from it that left the deepest impression on you. Wouldn’t that suffice?”

After hearing Gu Ning’an’s explanation, the two young cultivators—who looked no older than fifteen or sixteen—showed a hint of doubt. They felt that Gu Ning’an’s words made sense, yet at the same time, something seemed off.

“Well, that’s just my casual opinion. Whether or not to follow it is up to you. It’s also possible that I misunderstood your master’s intent,” Gu Ning’an said with a smile.

“Thank you for your insight, sir!”

“I think I get it now!”

As soon as Song Ke spoke, her senior brother gave her a questioning look. “What did you figure out?”

“I’ll explain on the way. Follow me, senior brother!” With that, Song Ke grabbed Shi Xiao’s wrist and pulled him into the distance, flying away.

Once they were gone, Gu Ning’an lay down on Redtail Fish’s back and chuckled. “You two catch up. Wake me at the hour of the Rooster (5-7 PM) so we can go back for dinner.”

“Alright!” The one human and one fish, who had been whispering and chatting all along, responded in unison.

Under the setting sun, the fiery clouds layered upon each other, painting the calm river a deep red.

Gu Ning’an shaded his eyes with his arm, enjoying the river breeze as he drifted into a comfortable sleep.

At the fish’s head, Hu Shi sat cross-legged, stroking Redtail Fish’s smooth scales with a smile. “Redtail Fish, are you comfortable living here?”

“I am.”

“Did you miss me?”

“I did.”

“Then next time, come pick me up at the confluence of the Bazhang River. I’ll come play with you.”

“Is that a good idea? If your grandfather finds out, he’ll be worried again.”

“It’s fine. I’ll sneak out at midnight…”

“Well… I suppose that could work.”

“What time is it…? Should I wake up Mr. Gu?”

“The hour of the Rooster is almost here.”

“Oh…” Hu Shi murmured before calling out loudly, “Mr. Gu! Mr. Gu, wake up! It’s almost the hour of the Rooster!”