Chapter 256

Chapter 256: Seven Dragon True Immortals

Initially displeased at being kept waiting for nearly half an hour, the seven Immortals softened upon witnessing Fang Lie’s sincere apology. Recognizing his genuine inability to leave during alchemy refinement, they accepted his explanation.

Rising in unison, they responded, "No matter, Island Lord shows great courtesy."

During this exchange, mutual observation commenced. The Immortals noted Fang Lie’s peculiar features – golden wings and an eye patch – yet sensed unwavering integrity radiating from him. His natural leadership exuded approachable confidence.

Fang Lie appraised seven auras of profound depth, surpassing ordinary Wind Tribulation Immortals. Their guileless demeanor suggested steadfast loyalty, the exact qualities revered by his forthright family. Immediate approval blossomed within him.

Gesturing broadly, Fang Lie declared, "Esteemed guests, be seated. Serve the Immortal tea!"

With Little Peach Red delivering medicines, attendants Mao San and Gou Si hurried to prepare. Soon they returned bearing jade cups for all.

"Your arduous journey honors me," Fang Lie toasted. "This humble offering conveys my respect." He sipped first, prompting others to follow.

The liquid immortal energy surged through their bodies like warm currents, nourishing flesh and soul alike. Several gasped as their divine senses sharpened – remarkable for Wind Tribulation Immortals whose awareness could pierce stone walls across vast distances.

Being knowledgeable, they recognized the rarity. While magic-enhancing items remained common, anything affecting their potent divine senses proved extraordinary. Each cup’s worth equaled eight small spirit pearls – over hundred pearls distributed instantly.

Seven Immortals exchanged meaningful glances, moved by this lavish welcome. Only Mr. Suan Mei voiced complaint: "How unfair, Island Lord! When I pledged allegiance, you offered naught but water."

Fang Lie snorted. "You ambushed me, leaving me to die by Master of a Hundred Poisons’ hand. Receiving tea after that? Be grateful for your intact throat."

"Ancient history!" Mr. Suan Mei protested. "Did I not bring seven worthy companions?"

"Hence," Fang Lie grinned, "your tea today."

Laughter erupted before Fang Lie inquired, "I’m Fang Lie of Mo Sect. Might I know your esteemed names?"

"Wind Dragon Immortal."

"Gold Dragon Immortal."

"Wood Dragon Immortal."

"I am Water Dragon Immortal!"

"I am Fire Dragon Immortal!"

"I am Earth Dragon Immortal!"

"I am Thunder Dragon Immortal!"

The seven True Immortals announced their titles in turn.

Mr. Suan Mei then explained, "These seven are martial brothers from Seven Dragon Island, each having cultivated for centuries. Their profound cultivation and high reputation are matched by their mastery of the Seven Dragon Formation – a combined force capable of rivaling Fire Tribulation Immortals. They’re the most renowned scattered cultivators in these waters."

While speaking openly, Mr. Suan Mei simultaneously transmitted a private message detailing their background.

Their master had been a wandering cultivator who stumbled upon an ancient great one’s inheritance on Seven Dragon Island. This great one’s Dao magic was exceptionally peculiar – the Seven Dragon Classic, divided into seven elemental volumes. True mastery required simultaneous cultivation of all seven attributes, a talent so rare it scarcely existed even in ancient times.

Unable to practice it fully himself, their master devised an alternative: recruiting seven disciples of differing elemental affinities, each specializing in one volume. Thus were the Seven Dragon True Immortals born.

After their master’s passing, the seven relied on these ancient teachings to reach their current strength. Yet further advancement demanded resources far beyond their means as scattered cultivators.

Driven to desperation, they sought patronage. Though formidable in battle, their steep demands and refusal to commit wicked acts (like pillaging) left them without suitable allies. Even righteous major sects like Kunlun Tao Sect coveted their Seven Dragon Classic, offers they steadfastly refused.

Mr. Suan Mei’s recommendation of Fang Lie became their last hope. Initially skeptical that a mere Qi Sea cultivator could sustain seven Wind Tribulation Immortals, they attended only to humor their old acquaintance. The sight of numerous Wind and Fire Tribulation Immortals seeking spirit pills here astonished them.

After hearing their tale, Fang Lie grinned. "Your needs are clear. State your exact requirements."

Wind Dragon Immortal sighed. "We lack funds for cultivation pills. Our island’s Spiritual Veins wither under our consumption. We simply seek basic sustenance for cultivation."

"Easily done!" Fang Lie thumped his chest. "I’ll provide your pills and sufficient small spirit pearls!"

The immortal hesitated. "Our expanded energy seas grant mighty Magic but require tenfold resources of ordinary Wind Tribulation Immortals. Sustaining us seven equals supporting seventy regular immortals!"

Instead of anger, Fang Lie showed admiration. "State your annual pearl needs."

"Merely ten thousand per person."

Fang Lie’s smile faltered – this exceeded normal consumption by hundreds of times. Each pearl could sustain Nascent Soul True Immortals for months, yet these seven would devour thirty daily! Still, he declared firmly: "Ten thousand each. Agreed."

"Such generosity!" The seven cheered. "This might truly work!"

Fang Lie blinked. "Might? Haven’t I met your demands?"

Wind Dragon Immortal grimaced. "We’ve another condition: We’ll never commit evil deeds."

He elaborated, "Wicked acts accumulate karma, amplifying Heavenly Tribulations. Our heaven-defying Dao magic already makes tribulations ten times deadlier. We barely survived Wind Tribulation with heavy injuries. Any karma would doom us during Fire Tribulation."

"At most, we’ll guard territories or your person," the immortal added sheepishly. "Can you accept this?"

Fang Lie roared with laughter. "You worry about this? I, Fang Lie of the Righteous Sect, forbid evil deeds! Hear my oath: Should I ever order wickedness, you may desert me instantly without consequence!"