Chapter 286: Three Bows and Nine Kowtows

Yan Wu seized the moment to escape the engulfing whirlwind. At the very last moment, he managed to enter the wind tunnel, finally extricating himself from danger.

"My deepest gratitude to Senior Yu for saving my life."

Despite his rugged appearance, Yan Wu was a man who understood the importance of repaying kindness. His face was filled with heartfelt gratitude as he bowed deeply to Yu Kong, nearly collapsing in tears and prostrating himself to the ground.

While his actions seemed somewhat exaggerated, considering it was a matter of life and death, the others could understand his sentiment.

After this incident, the wary gazes others had directed at Yu Kong softened considerably.

Previously, Luo Xingnan and Sheng Yuanzi’s comments had sown seeds of distrust within the group, but now much of that tension had dissipated. For the time being, the atmosphere within the team grew noticeably more harmonious.

Having safely passed through the array with no real mishaps, the group finally entered the cave dwelling. Once their nerves settled, they quickly began observing their surroundings.

A fierce wind howled, and torrential rain poured relentlessly.

The wind was biting, and the rain was icy. Even though they were all cultivators, many found it unbearable and resorted to channeling spiritual power to shield themselves.

Strangely, the raindrops would vanish as soon as they touched their bodies or the ground. While they seemed like illusions, the raindrops were undeniably real, as the impact was both tangible and destructive.

The wind and rain were manifestations of chaotic spiritual qi. The entire cave dwelling wasn’t consumed by the storm, however. Some areas were engulfed in heavenly flames, while others were shrouded in drifting yellow sand.

The phenomena varied, each unique and mesmerizing.

The intertwining visions obscured their sight, making it difficult to discern details of the distant mountain except for its faint silhouette. The most striking feature was the Grandmaster Hall at the mountain's peak, whose ancient structure was barely visible amidst the haze.

The mountain itself was steep and imposing, resembling a sword piercing the heavens.

A stone staircase, carved by human hands, began at the mountain’s base and stretched upward, disappearing into the mist.

In certain parts of the mountain, specks of light pierced through the rain—these were evasion lights, signaling that others had entered the cave dwelling ahead of them and begun their treasure hunt.

"These scenes are the result of energy leaks from the protective array, creating these chaotic phenomena," Yu Kong explained calmly, "The array is currently at its weakest. As long as you shield yourselves with spiritual power, you should be fine. However, I recommend ascending the mountain on foot. Flying into the air risks being swept into the chaotic energy, and extricating yourself will be troublesome."

Rather than rushing to ascend, Yu Kong took his time repeating the precautions necessary within the cave dwelling, warning everyone before pointing to the area behind them.

"Remember where we entered. During this weak phase of the array, its structure won’t change significantly. If you exit from the same location, you’ll still encounter the previous wind array. You’re all familiar with its patterns by now, and exiting is easier than entering. You don’t need to worry about being trapped."

Behind them lay a boundless sea of clouds, forming a chaotic scene resembling a massive eye of the storm.

The group took heed of Yu Kong’s advice and memorized their point of entry.

These reminders were common knowledge when exploring such cave dwellings, but Yu Kong reiterated them tirelessly to prevent any oversight.

"There are still a few among us who haven’t decided," Yu Kong remarked, his gaze falling upon the Xiu Sisters and Mu Teng. "Now that we’ve entered the cave dwelling, what are your plans? Will you follow me to the Spirit Treasure Pavilion behind the mountain, or will you act independently?"

Qin Sang had already agreed to join Yu Kong earlier. He stepped forward and positioned himself behind Yu Kong. Yan Wu, without hesitation, followed suit, as did Shangguan Lifeng.

The others exchanged uncertain glances, hesitant to commit.

Mu Teng coughed lightly and asked seriously, "Daoist Yu, earlier you mentioned that in the Spirit Treasure Pavilion, whoever finds a treasure first gets to keep it, and no one is allowed to snatch it. What happens if someone becomes greedy and breaks this rule? How would you handle it?"

Yu Kong scanned the group before replying coolly, "If anyone dares to commit such a despicable act, I will deal with them alongside the rest of you. I trust none of us would tolerate such behavior. If I, Yu Kong, break this rule, you’re free to act without hesitation as well."

Hearing this, Mu Teng’s eyes glinted as he nodded and stepped over to Yu Kong’s side.

Wu Chen hesitated for a while longer before finally deciding to follow.

Only three women remained. Crescent Moon Fairy let out a charming laugh and moved closer, her expression pitiful yet captivating. "I have no family to rely on. To receive the care of Senior Yu and the support of fellow Daoists is already a blessing. How could I refuse?"

The Xiu Sisters deliberated briefly before bowing to Yu Kong with a hint of regret. "We sisters have other goals to pursue, but unfortunately, they are not in the rear mountain. We cannot accompany Senior Yu and must ask for your forgiveness."

Yu Kong did not take offense. With a gracious gesture, he said calmly, "I’ve said before that everyone is free to come and go. Ladies, please proceed with your plans. I wish you success in achieving your goals."

"Thank you, Senior!"

The Xiu Sisters cupped their hands respectfully and departed. Under the watchful eyes of the group, they disappeared into the rain.

Yu Kong smiled and remarked, "Although we are two fewer, the power of the Guiyuan Array is greatly reduced. With all of you being exceptional cultivators, I am certain this expedition will be fruitful. Let us make haste and ascend the mountain. Everyone, follow closely."

With that, Yu Kong’s figure flashed, darting into the rain. The group quickly activated their evasion lights and followed closely behind.

The stone steps were steep, and many sections were severely damaged. However, such obstacles were trivial for immortal cultivators. The group kept pace with Yu Kong, racing towards the mountain peak. Along the way, they encountered other treasure seekers but silently avoided each other. No one dared stir up conflict here.

Before long, the group reached the mountain summit. Just as everyone expected Yu Kong to bypass the Grand Hall of Offerings and head directly to the rear mountain, he surprised them by walking straight into the hall.

This unexpected action puzzled everyone. Why stop in a place that was clearly a ruin?

The Grand Hall of Offerings had been thoroughly ransacked long ago. No one would waste time here. The hall stood empty, devoid of life.

Outside, the torrential rain continued unabated, leaving the ancient hall in utter desolation.

The only remaining clay statue leaned crookedly, having been moved from its original position. Its paint had long since peeled away, revealing its age, but it was still recognizable as a depiction of a Daoist.

Yu Kong stood within the hall, gazing up at the crooked statue, his posture resembling that of a devotee paying homage.

The others followed him inside, bewildered.

Looking at the statue, Yu Kong chuckled. "Fellow Daoists, do not be surprised. I just recalled something a friend once said: when receiving someone’s kindness, one must always harbor a trace of gratitude. I deeply agree with that sentiment. The last time I was here, I obtained a spiritual pill that helped me break through to the middle stage. Unfortunately, the master of this cave dwelling is long gone, and I don’t even know their name. I have no one to thank. Now that I’ve returned, I thought I’d pay my respects. It won’t take long."

As he spoke, Yu Kong approached the statue, gently straightened it, and brushed away the dust. Then, he moved to the center of the hall and stood firmly in place.

He aligned his feet, let his arms hang naturally, tucked his chin slightly, pressed his tongue against the roof of his mouth, and drew his chest inward while extending his back.

After adopting this posture, Yu Kong performed a formal kowtow ceremony toward the clay statue!

The others exchanged bewildered glances but, seeing Yu Kong’s serious demeanor, refrained from interrupting.

Qin Sang’s gaze flickered, an indescribable unease rising in his heart. He couldn’t discern whether Yu Kong’s actions were genuinely heartfelt or if they masked the cunning of a treacherous schemer.