Daoist Competition

Wei Zihong spoke like this, and Zhang Yan smiled slightly, not insisting. With his eyesight, there was no need to lift the bangs to see a distinct mark on the forehead resembling a closed eyelid, which was remarkably similar to what Sect Leader Qin had described as "Three Eyes."

He was already certain in his heart that this child was indeed the person he was seeking.

He glanced at the white monkey on Wei Zihong’s shoulder. Without this spirit beast blocking the way of forest beasts along the journey, it would not have been so easy to reach this place.

This little monkey meant well, but it had ruined his arrangements.

Zhang Yan shook his head, as this was an unintentional act, and it was not worth delving deep into it. He flicked his finger, and an Elixir Pill flew out, landing in front of the white monkey.

Unexpectedly, the little white monkey squeaked and shook its head repeatedly, just clutching Wei Zihong’s clothes tightly.

Zhang Yan couldn’t help but chuckle, saying: "You little creature, you are clever enough."

This little white monkey was a spirit beast in the forest, recognizing Zhang Yan was here to take on a disciple. Though it had developed spiritual wisdom, it lacked the Great Demon Bloodline, and without guidance, it would be difficult to pass the threshold of Transformation.

While the Elixir Pill was good, how could it compare to following Wei Zihong and finding a good path?

Zhang Yan no longer paid it any mind, only speaking to Wei Zihong: "Since you sincerely came to seek apprenticeship, I see that your bone structure is of Upper Grade. Are you willing to return to the Mountain Gate with me for cultivation?"

Wei Zihong was taken aback, then lowered his head, saying: "Daoist, I, I cannot go with you."

Zhang Yan asked kindly: "Is there any difficulty?"

Wei Zihong hesitated for a while, gathered his courage, and answered loudly: "My mother is bedridden, and there would be no one to take care of her if I left."

Zhang Yan nodded and said: "We who cultivate do not cut off our emotions or lose our nature. Since you have parents above, you should care for them well. I have two methods for you to choose from. First, I can teach you a Spell. Once you start, you will be free from disease, incredibly strong, capable of battling ten thousand men, and it won’t be difficult to gain noble titles and riches for generations; second, I can take you and your mother back to the Mountain Gate, though the mountain life is lonely, cultivation is pure and austere, and living off the elements, sleeping on rocks, and lying on ice is a common affair. You may choose between these two skills."

If someone is wholeheartedly seeking Dao, they would choose the second option without hesitation. However, someone with a desire for wealth might choose the first for a life of glory and riches.

Due to Wei Zihong’s special status, regardless of his choice, Zhang Yan intended to bring him back to the sect. However, since he was accepting him as a disciple, he wanted to observe his character.

Wei Zihong listened and, without any thought, said without hesitation: "Disciple is willing to choose the second."

Zhang Yan asked curiously: "Why do you choose the second?"

Wei Zihong answered without hesitation: "Teacher has taught me the Dharma technique, and as a disciple, I can serve my mother, but how could I repay the teaching grace if I leave the teacher?"

Such a simple expression could only come from a child, and after hearing it, Zhang Yan couldn’t help but laugh heartily, saying: "Good disciple, then quickly fetch your mother, and today you’ll accompany me."

Then he extended his hand and tapped on the back of his head.

Wei Zihong suddenly felt as if countless things had filled his mind, and within his body, there seemed to be endless Qi Power. Looking at his own hands, he couldn’t help but feel immensely surprised and delighted, saying: "Teacher, your disciple will be right back."

Zhang Yan nodded slightly, glanced at the little white monkey, and said faintly: "If anything happens to my disciple on this journey, I’ll hold you accountable."

The little white monkey trembled all over, squeaking repeatedly, clearly indicating its understanding.

Zhang Yan thought to himself: "The Sect Leader once said that before this child enters the sect, he must undergo a minor ordeal. I initially planned for him to endure some hardships here to naturally avoid this ordeal and save some trouble. However, human calculations can’t compete with Heaven’s will. This little monkey inadvertently ruined it, but that’s fine. Since I can’t avoid it, I’ll address it."

With Zhang Yan’s assistance, Wei Zihong’s steps were swift as the wind. After leaving the Bat King Temple, he hurried towards home.

This time, it took him less than an hour to reach the house. Arriving before the bed, he spoke softly with a joyful face to his mother: "Mother, your child has received the Immortal Master’s care, and today is going to the Mountain Gate for cultivation. I am here to take you with me."

After speaking, he supported his mother, lifting her onto his back.

Although the Wei Family matriarch had been bedridden for a long time, she was still an adult. When helping her turn over and clean her, it usually required considerable effort. But now, he felt no strain at all, effortlessly lifting her. Amidst his excitement and joy, he couldn’t help but feel immense gratitude towards Zhang Yan for teaching him this "Immortal Law."