Obtaining a beast core means killing the beast, and the core of a Tier 2 beast is its very essence. Such beasts are equivalent in strength to Foundation Establishment cultivators. Moreover, in confrontation, a beast of equal level often surpasses a human cultivator in raw power.
Currently, Chen An is only in the early stages of Qi Refinement. The notion of slaying a Tier 2 beast borders on the impossible.
In the world of cultivation, there are rare prodigies capable of defeating opponents beyond their realm, but at most, they leap a minor realm. Stories of someone in Qi Refinement defeating a Foundation Establishment cultivator are unheard of.
So when Meng Wutian outlined his condition, Chen An couldn't help but be astonished.
Meng Wutian seemed to see right through Chen An's thoughts and calmly explained, "As a cultivator, you should understand that every gain comes at a price. You were not destined to tread the cultivation path. Using a Cleansing Marrow Pill to change your fate is an act of defying heaven itself. Throughout the annals of history, such feats are as rare as a drop in the ocean, a testament to how arduous this path is."
"Of course, if you're unwilling to take the risk, I won't hold it against you. It's human nature to avoid danger. Spending your life at the early Qi Refinement stage as a carefree cultivator is a perfectly acceptable path."
"Enough, Sect Master." Before Meng Wutian could finish, Chen An interrupted firmly. "I'll acquire that Tier 2 beast core, no matter the cost."
His determination didn't surprise Meng Wutian.
Chen An had proven his resolve during the disciple tournament when he risked his life to face Yun Xiao. This demonstrated he wasn't someone who shied away from challenges.
The key was presenting a goal worth the risk.
And what could be more valuable than altering one's destiny?
"Since you've made your choice, proceed as you see fit. When you obtain the core, I will hand over the materials needed for refining the Cleansing Marrow Pill." With that, Meng Wutian waved his hand, signaling that their discussion was over.
Chen An, however, didn't leave immediately. Instead, he posed a question.
"There's one thing I don't understand, Sect Master." Without waiting for Meng Wutian's response, he continued, "You mentioned earlier that the materials for refining a Cleansing Marrow Pill are incredibly valuable. What about me is worth such an effort on your part?"
This question made the corner of Meng Wutian's mouth twitch briefly before his expression returned to calm. "You were supposed to be promoted directly to the inner sect, but I chose not to offend Yun Henqiu on your behalf, which resulted in your grievance. I feel somewhat indebted to you."
"And besides, your character intrigues me. That's why I've decided to help you in this way. Any other questions?"
"Thank you, Sect Master," Chen An replied with a bow before quietly leaving the hall.
Meng Wutian watched his departing figure with an unreadable gaze.
Unbeknownst to him, Chen An's expression wasn't one of relief but one of lingering tension.
Helping someone acquire such priceless resources out of a sense of guilt? That didn't sit well with Chen An. He didn't believe anyone would make such sacrifices without a hidden agenda.
In short, Meng Wutian wasn't telling the full truth.
What exactly was Meng Wutian's motive? Chen An couldn't discern it yet, but it didn't matter. As long as the deal benefited him, he saw no reason to refuse.
As for what might happen in the future, or Meng Wutian's true intentions, Chen An set those concerns aside for now. However, he resolved to remain vigilant.
He wouldn't let himself be used without realizing it.
---
After returning to the outer sect, Chen An was approached by an outer sect steward. At first, he thought this might be an attempt by Elder Gu to make his move, but to his surprise, it was only a routine procedure for registering his new status as an outer sect disciple. He even received his sect token.
Now officially a disciple of the Lingfu Sect, Chen An could receive three spirit stones monthly as a stipend.
Additionally, he could accept sect missions from the Elders' Hall. Completing these tasks would reward him with materials or spirit stones.
More importantly, he now had the freedom to leave the sect grounds at will, no longer confined to the mountain.
Chen An's immediate priority was acquiring the Tier 2 beast core. However, the area around the Lingfu Sect was unlikely to harbor such beasts. Over generations, the surrounding creatures had been tamed and confined to the sect's Spirit Beast Garden.
Finding a Tier 2 beast meant venturing far beyond the sect's reach. For now, Chen An had no leads and decided to consult Li Muchen.
Having been in the sect for over two years, Li Muchen was well-versed in the ways of the cultivation world. Chen An trusted that he could provide valuable insights.
With his plans set, Chen An made an unexpected decision: to confront Elder Gu directly.
He knew there was no escaping their entanglement. Instead of feigning ignorance, he decided to take the initiative and negotiate.
From the moment he learned he wouldn't be promoted to the inner sect, Chen An had been contemplating how to deal with Elder Gu.
The simplest solution was to eliminate him, but that was impossible with Chen An's current strength. Thus, a more strategic approach was necessary.
After being announced, Chen An entered the outer sect Elder Hall, where Elder Gu awaited.
The vast hall was empty, save for Chen An and Elder Gu. If Elder Gu wanted to kill him, there would be no escape.
Placing his life in another's hands was unnerving, but Chen An had no choice. He came with sincerity and a plan.
"So, you failed to escape my grasp. Frustrating, isn't it?" Elder Gu, seated cross-legged, regarded Chen An with a sly grin.
"It is," Chen An admitted without hesitation. "Had Yun Henqiu not intervened, you and I might have never crossed paths again."
This admission piqued Elder Gu's curiosity. The shift in Chen An's demeanor intrigued him.
"And now? Are you here to offer your life willingly?" Elder Gu's eyes gleamed with killing intent, a palpable aura pressing down on Chen An.
"No," Chen An said firmly, suppressing the fear rising in his heart. After a deep breath, he declared, "I'm here to discuss a proposal for cooperation."