Chapter 196

Chapter 196: Collaborative Teaching Method

The investigation into Yi Zhong taking Fang Kun away yielded no answers. However, after clearing the air, Huan Yan and Fang Ming reached a tentative understanding. Fang Ming released the Immortals of the Second Heavenly Layer and withdrew his forces stationed there. Huan Yan finally resumed his duties as Heavenly Emperor. The rest would be up to them to resolve.

You You had no intention of staying longer. After bidding farewell to Huan Yan, she prepared to return to the Zhen Yan Sect with Feng Rong and Yuan Papa. Before Huan Yan could even attempt to persuade her, the crowd from the Fourth Heavenly Layer began wailing loudly.

They trailed her from the Fourth Heavenly Layer through the Threefold Heaven and into the Second Heavenly Layer, their faces etched with despair. If not for Feng Rong’s icy glares deterring them, they might’ve rushed to cling to her legs and block her departure.

“Celestial Maiden, won’t you… stay just a bit longer? Even a moment!”

“Yes! This is the Immortal Realm! Let us help you ascend!”

“The Fourth Heavenly Layer has a celestial pool brimming with energy! A dip might forge celestial bones!”

“If not, take mine! I’ll give you my celestial bones!”

“Bah! Mine are superior!”

“Celestial Maiden, choose me!”

“……” *What’s wrong with these people?*

“I’d rather cultivate my own,” You You replied, her lip twitching. Why were they hawking celestial bones like market vendors?

“Enough!” Fang Ming finally shoved his zealous subordinates aside and faced You You solemnly. “Their nonsense isn’t worth hearing. Celestial bones can’t be gifted. Even if transplanted, the Heavenly Dao wouldn’t recognize them—you’d gain nothing but trouble.”

You You nodded, relieved someone spoke sense—until Fang Ming added, “*I* won’t risk your safety. So… I’ll accompany you to the Mortal Realm. How’s that?”

You You: “……”

The crowd: “……”

*Unbelievable!*

*They might be shameless, but you’re downright ruthless!*

You You declined firmly. “The Zhen Yan Sect isn’t recruiting new disciples now.” *And even if we were, not you!* Her sect aimed to guide cultivators toward ascension—why enroll graduates who’d already succeeded?

Fang Ming’s enthusiasm dimmed, while the other Immortals slumped like wilted plants. After millennia without a female presence, their brief hope was leaving. Back to bleak, lonely immortality—how despairing!

Noticing their crushed expressions, You You reluctantly suggested, “If you truly wish to contribute… I have a proposal. Would Heavenly Emperor Fang Ming and the celestial lords consider it?”

The group perked up instantly, shouting in unison, “YES!” *Whatever the Celestial Maiden wants!*

“……”

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Back at the sect, You You handed Ling Qi a timetable spanning decades, with locations and attributes noted.

“This is…?” Ling Qi stared blankly.

“The schedule for celestial-grade Secret Realms opening on the Immortal Blessing Continent,” You You explained. “The next one’s a sword cultivator-focused Realm in three months. Prepare resources and select suitable disciples.”

“But… there’s no sign of these Realms,” Ling Qi protested. *How does she know this?*

“They’ll appear soon,” You You said. “We struck a deal with the Fourth Heavenly Emperor. Upper Realm Immortals will craft Secret Realms for the Mortal Realm—packed with their insights—to aid cultivators.”

“Huh?!” Ling Qi’s mind reeled.

“Our goal is ascension, yet current teachings lack true Immortal guidance,” You You continued. “For centuries, cultivators fumbled blindly—that’s why ascensions dwindled. With Immortal mentors, we can improve.”

“But… cultivation requires personal epiphanies. Even with Secret Realms—”

“Which is why we boost comprehension!” You You countered. “Like students, some grasp concepts quickly; others need tailored methods. Practical experience bridges that gap. Since Mortal Realm events are scarce, these Realms will serve as training grounds.”

Fang Ming’s faction—seasoned Immortals—would infuse Realms with their expertise, accessible via trials. Their clones would Test and teach entrants.

Though open to all sects, the Zhen Yan Sect received advance notice. Hence, the timetable.