A Record of A Mortal's Journey to Immortality

Chapter 675: Nascent Soul Gathering

“This is the place. Fellow cultivators, please come in,” said the Fire Dragon Attendant Boy with a smile, then swaggered ahead.

As Han Li casually glanced inside upon approaching the loft door, he couldn't help but be taken aback.

Inside, it looked just like an ordinary tavern—not only were numerous guests sitting and eating and drinking, but several waiters also weaved through the tables carrying trays laden with exquisite dishes and fine wines. The clinking of cups and laughter continuously echoed through the space.

On one side of the loft door hung a wooden plaque about a foot long, with bold black characters that read: “This establishment is reserved; outsiders keep out.”

“True Immortal Tianjing is at it again with his illusion technique. Honestly!” the Fire Dragon Attendant Boy muttered, but paid no further attention and strode inside boldly.

Han Li’s spiritual awareness stirred at these words. He lightly swept his awareness inside and immediately wore a strange expression on his face. Yet, without hesitation, he followed in step.

As soon as the three entered through the door, the light instantly dimmed. The guests and waiters inside vanished like bubbles, and the noisy chatter abruptly ceased.

Han Li casually scanned the room. It was empty, surrounded by a faint gray mist. Only an old wooden table rested in the center, atop which sat a bronze oil lamp. Behind the lamp was a gray-robed cultivator with a kind face, about fifty or sixty years old, smiling warmly at the three.

“I didn’t expect Brother Lan to come not only by himself but also with Fellow Cultivator Lv. And this gray-robed friend! My eyesight must be failing—I don’t recall ever seeing you before. Could you be a fellow nascent soul cultivator recently advanced?” The gray-robed cultivator smiled and greeted the three warmly, making none feel neglected and even inspiring a bit of goodwill.

“Brother Tianjing, I have brought two uninvited guests along. I hope they won’t be turned away?” The Fire Dragon Attendant Boy’s innocent-looking smile betrayed a mature tone in his voice.

“How could that be? I welcome all fellow cultivators who come. Besides, I am old friends with Fellow Cultivator Lv. Only this one here...” The old cultivator chuckled, his gaze lingering a moment longer on Han Li.

“I am Han Li from Luoyun Sect, a newly advanced cultivator. I hope True Immortal Tianjing will offer me guidance in the future,” Han Li stepped forward half a step and cupped his fist respectfully.

“So Fellow Cultivator Lv is from the same sect. Tsk, tsk, you don’t look very old—your future must be limitless,” True Immortal Tianjing said with a benevolent smile.

“All right, old friend. Most others should have arrived now. The three of us will also go up and take a look,” the Fire Dragon Attendant Boy said without hesitation, clearly on familiar terms with True Immortal Tianjing.

“Ahem! Brother Lan, you’re as impatient as ever. Ten or so have arrived already. Those eager ones might have started exchanging up above. Here are two Black Spirit Masks, fellow cultivators, take them. Brother Lan, do you want one as well?” After asking the Fire Dragon Attendant Boy, True Immortal Tianjing flipped his hands, producing two white flashes. Two jet-black wooden masks appeared, inscribed with faint runes—clearly no ordinary items.

“Hmph! You know well who recognizes my figure. If I used illusions to change my shape, who could I possibly fool?” The Fire Dragon Attendant Boy puffed out his cheeks, looking quite annoyed.

“That’s true. Fellow cultivators, please ascend. I shall join you shortly,” True Immortal Tianjing smiled indifferently, tossing the masks to Han Li and Lv Luo. At the same time, a white spell formation appeared in the mist behind him.

The mist immediately dissipated, revealing a glowing stone staircase leading up to the second floor.

The Fire Dragon Attendant Boy didn’t hesitate, walking straight past the table and up the stairs.