CHAPTER 450: CHAPTER 91 RUYI ABACUS

"A Transformed Medicine Mushroom, something rarely seen in a thousand years."

In Master Shi’s clouded eyes, a glimmer of light appeared. He let out a long sigh and said, "My Shi Family has passed down the technique of seeking mushrooms for generations, but we have only ever seen mentions of the Transformed Medicine Mushroom in ancient records, never its actual form. Not until today have my eyes been opened. It seems that only in such an isolated place, gathering and concentrating Spiritual Energy, can such a Spiritual Object be nurtured."

He cast several more glances at the small child, his expression tinged with regret.

Once a Medicine Mushroom transforms, it can roam freely, ascending to absorb the essence of the sun and moon. If it hadn’t encountered us today, and if it could evade various tribulations over several millennia, achieving immortality and attaining the Dao wouldn’t be an impossible dream.

But now, since it has been seen by Bao Dingheng and his group, it will likely not escape this calamity.

Fang He had no mind to consider what he was thinking. He hurriedly asked, "Master Shi, what must we do to capture this object?"

Master Shi furrowed his brows and let out a soft sigh, saying, "It’s not too difficult. One person needs to sever the roots of that large tree, then use Gold Qi to block its escape, preventing it from using Wood Evasion to sneak underground to hide. After that, send someone up to seize it, and it will surely be caught."

Fang He rejoiced and said, "This is easy. I can handle it."

He was about to act when Bao Dingheng suddenly grabbed him and said, "Junior Brother, hold on. I have a few more questions to ask Master Shi."

Turning, Bao Dingheng bowed slightly to Master Shi and asked, "Is there only one mushroom here?"

Master Shi thought for a moment before affirming, "For now, yes. With this Transformed Medicine Mushroom present, all the essence of Spiritual Energy gathers here. Anything of its kind nearby... heh, how could they have any chance of survival?"

Hearing this, Fang He’s expression shifted slightly, and he discreetly glanced around, noting that the others all wore varying expressions after hearing this.

Bao Dingheng, however, betrayed no emotion on his face. He nodded and said in a deep tone, "In that case, to ensure everything goes smoothly, I will personally take on the task of chopping the tree. Fellow Daoists, what do you think?"

Among everyone present, Bao Dingheng held the highest level of cultivation and was the most esteemed. The Yuan Yang Sword Sect was also famously skilled in Swordsmanship, so there were no objections. The high crown daoist even remarked, "Daoist Bao’s Swordsmanship is unmatched. With you taking the lead, we are all at ease."

Bao Dingheng smiled and said, "Brother Gao, your praise is too generous. However, the one to capture the mushroom must act quickly and with precision. May I ask whom you all think is most suitable?"

Daoist Gao turned back and conferred in hushed tones with three others. Then he stepped forward, pointed at Zhang Yan, and said, "We have decided. This Daoist Li is a Power Dao Practitioner, quicker and more agile than any of us. He would be the most suitable candidate."

Bao Dingheng gave Daoist Gao a long, pointed look before turning his gaze to Zhang Yan and asking, "Daoist Li, do you have any objections?"

Zhang Yan smiled faintly and said, "Since the fellow Daoists place their trust in me, I shall not fail you."

"Excellent!"

Then Bao Dingheng said to Master Shi, "Master Shi, with your expertise in capturing mushrooms, may I trouble you to guide Brother Daoist Li to a suitable location to act?"

Master Shi nodded, glanced at Zhang Yan, and said amicably, "Young man, follow me."

Once the two figures disappeared into the forest, Bao Dingheng called the others closer and issued a few instructions. His intent was to have them spread out and guard the perimeter. First, it was to prevent the mushroom from escaping elsewhere should Zhang Yan fail. Second, it ensured that no one could be lurking in secret, waiting to intervene.

This arrangement was reasonable, so everyone consented and departed to take their positions.

Once the others dispersed, Bao Dingheng remained standing where he was, unmoving, lost in thought. Before long, Fang He quietly returned. His face betrayed no surprise as he scanned the surroundings. In a low voice, he asked, "Senior Brother, earlier you signaled to me—do you have something to say to me?"

Fang He tiptoed closer and whispered, "Senior Brother, allow me one question. How do you plan to handle this Transformed Medicine Mushroom?"

Bao Dingheng’s expression shifted slightly as he replied, "Junior Brother, speak your mind."

Fang He darted his eyes about to ensure no one else was nearby, then lowered his voice further, "Senior Brother, this Transformed Medicine Mushroom is a treasure rarely seen in a thousand years. I can’t believe Gao Yingtu and the others would not also covet it."

Bao Dingheng was well aware that although Gao Daoist and the others maintained some interaction with him normally, their bond was far from deep. Their current alliance was purely out of mutual interest. Moments ago, those four hesitated merely upon hearing the name Lan Yuchun and refused to act, which clearly showed their true colors. Their cooperation was superficial at best. When confronted with potential danger, they would merely watch from the sidelines. However, when there was benefit to be had, they would undoubtedly converge like vultures.