Under his banner was an Innate Martial Master. Naturally, Xia Mingyang, the Pavilion Master, had to meet with him; it was a duty that couldn't be ignored; otherwise, it would be a dereliction of duty.

"Very well, Third Miss, please lead the way."

Gu Yuan naturally understood this and agreed with a nod.

Xia Xiuxue said no more and set out.

It wasn't long before the two arrived at Jade Cauldron Tower.

On the third floor, after entering the room, Gu Yuan saw Xia Mingyang standing by the window, arms folded, gazing outside.

"Subordinate Gu Yuan, reporting to the Pavilion Master!"

Gu Yuan stepped forward and saluted with clasped fists.

But a hint of surprise arose in his heart.

In his perception, Xia Mingyang seemed to merge into the world around him, his aura intertwining with the heavens and earth, cycling continuously.

Compared to the last time, the pressure on Gu Yuan had increased significantly!

Of course, Gu Yuan was also different today, naturally not feeling much from this level of pressure.

Yet, this situation with Xia Mingyang made Gu Yuan's heart stir, prompting a guess: "Could it be that Pavilion Master Xia has established the Dao Foundation and become a Celestial Human Realm Cultivator?!"

It's no wonder Gu Yuan thought this.

Innate Martial Masters have strong spiritual will, able to sense and attract Heaven and Earth Primordial Qi, transforming it into True Qi.

However, only Celestial Human Realm Cultivators can fuse their spirit and True Qi with the heavens and earth, connecting with Heaven and Earth Primordial Qi!

As Xia Mingyang's performance showed evident signs of fusing and connecting with the heavens and earth.

Despite the surprise in his heart, Gu Yuan didn't show it outwardly.

Due to his Sword Heart Talent enhancing his sensitivity, he had sensed this.

Otherwise, he might not have noticed these details.

Thus, Xia Mingyang might be deliberately hiding, not letting him know that Gu Yuan had noticed.

Xia Mingyang turned around, looked at Gu Yuan, and smiled, "You are also one of Jade Cauldron Tower's people, so there's no need for excessive formality."

As he spoke, his gaze circled Gu Yuan, with a trace of peculiarity in his eyes.

The young man standing before him was handsome, with fair features, a well-proportioned and slender figure, and bright, clear eyes—indeed a fine youth.

But at Xia Mingyang's level, seeing a person involves looking beyond mere appearance, delving into their "spirit."

Some may seem dignified and speak grandly, yet are inwardly dark and vile, with a spirit akin to a treacherous imp.

Others may appear ugly and be physically incomplete, yet possess a peaceful and steadfast spirit, like an unshakeable mountain rock!

In Xia Mingyang's eyes, Gu Yuan's aura was pure, brimming with spiritual vitality, with an underlying sharpness, like a precious sword hidden in its sheath.

Whether in cultivation or swordsmanship, he exuded a sense of balance.

Such flawless purity in spirit and intent—he hadn't seen many like it.

Even he recalled a similar presence during his time at Medicine King Mountain.

Now, Xia Mingyang was somewhat surprised, even stunned, for the first time realizing he had underestimated the young man before him.

With such spirit, this youth named Gu Yuan was certainly not ordinary!

He distinctly recalled, from his last encounter with Gu Yuan, that although Gu Yuan possessed Iron Bone and Soft Tendons and left a remarkable impression, he was still merely decent.

Why would someone from a humble background undergo such a transformative change in a short span?

Reflecting on this, he suddenly remembered that Chen Qi seemed to regard this young man highly.

Was there possibly hidden potential within this young man?

A thought emerged in his mind.

"Sit, please!"

Xia Mingyang gestured to a nearby seat, inviting Gu Yuan to sit, while indicating Xia Xiuxue to leave after pouring tea.

Once Xia Xiuxue departed, Xia Mingyang sat across and asked, "Do you know why I had Xiuxue summon you?"

"Well…"

Gu Yuan appeared slightly surprised, then smiled, "Could it be that Pavilion Master sees me as a talent worth nurturing, and plans to train me thoroughly?"

"You are indeed perceptive."

Xia Mingyang gave Gu Yuan a deep gaze.

In essence, he summoned Gu Yuan, seeing his talent and potential as valuable, intending to win him over for his own use.

Gu Yuan recognized this, half-jokingly noting the Pavilion Master's intent to nurture him.

Both understood, so they spoke openly.

"You ascended to Innate Martial Master so quickly; apart from good roots and enlightenment, there must be another opportunity."

"For us cultivators, beyond innate talent, fortuitous encounters are crucial."

Xia Mingyang smiled, "But since you've reached the Innate realm, have you considered your future path?"

Upon hearing this, Gu Yuan was moved and instead of answering, he saluted:

"I humbly ask for the Pavilion Master's guidance!"

Xia Mingyang's smile deepened:

"Master Chen surely mentioned that my Medicine King Mountain recruits disciples every five years; the last was a year ago. Besides, you're a bit beyond the age limit to qualify for discipleship."

His tone shifted, "But, while these are facts, they don't mean you have no chance."

"Soon, a major figure from Medicine King Mountain will descend. This figure is uninhibited, unconstrained by norms, and places little value on certain rules, presenting your opportunity!"

"As Pavilion Master of Jade Cauldron Tower, I am responsible for recommending talents to the sect, and can recommend two within five years. If you are truly exceptional, why not use this recommendation for you?"

With this, Xia Mingyang quietly sipped his tea.

Gu Yuan was no fool and naturally understood the underlying meaning...

What does it mean to be worth nurturing?

It's clearly advising him to be sensible!

Since Xia Mingyang holds the recommendation to Medicine King Mountain.

For Gu Yuan to join Medicine King Mountain, he needs to understand.

"Pavilion Master, rest assured!"

Gu Yuan saluted earnestly, "Should I have the fortune to join Medicine King Mountain, I won't forget your recommendation!"

Indeed, if you help me join Medicine King Mountain, I'll remember your favor and repay you in due course.

But if you intend to harm or send me to perish, don't blame me for turning against you...

Although Gu Yuan appeared righteous outwardly, internally, he pondered other thoughts.

It became clear Xia Mingyang was displaying a "no rabbit, no hawk" attitude.

He had to express loyalty before securing the recommendation.

Yet, since Xia Mingyang desired such words, it was fine to say them.

Elder Chen cautioned Gu Yuan to steer clear of Xia Mingyang, labeling him dangerous.

Gu Yuan heeded this and remained wary of Xia Mingyang.

Still, concerning a major matter like joining Medicine King Mountain, inflexibility wasn't necessary.

If Xia Mingyang truly schemed against him, he wasn't made of clay.

Gu Yuan knew Xia Mingyang's recommendation might be significant, but joining Medicine King Mountain ultimately hinged on talent!

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