### Chapter 265: Forge Peak
If Yun Zhonghe hadn’t been prepared, that Thunderbolt Talisman would have likely injured him badly.
Having tested it firsthand, it wasn’t because Su Xiaoxiao was unlucky that the lightning kept hitting her; rather, her bad luck caused flaws in the talismans she made, which were potentially fatal.
Even when following the correct procedures, inexplicable bugs still emerged.
And problems weren’t just limited to the Thunderbolt Talisman; Wind Velocity Talismans were riddled with issues too.
As soon as you slapped a Wind Velocity Talisman on your body, the acceleration effect was immediate, so quick that even a seasoned Golden Core cultivator would struggle to keep up.
But once activated, there was no stopping. It was like an untamed horse, galloping uncontrollably.
Su Xiaoxiao almost lost her footing and fell off a cliff, but she managed to tear the talisman off in time, narrowly avoiding disaster.
Overall, these talismans were a huge mess.
However, after some serious contemplation, Yun Zhonghe didn’t completely dismiss their potential value. Instead, he encouraged her, suggesting that under certain circumstances, these talismans might come in handy.
He even proposed making more backups.
“What’s the point of failure items?”
“Trust me, they’ll definitely show up at the grand competition!”
Facing Yun Zhonghe’s confident and trustful eyes, Su Xiaoxiao’s doubts slowly melted away. She chose to believe his judgment instead.
“I currently have forty Thunderbolt Talismans and sixty Wind Velocity Talismans. Brother Yun, do you think this amount is enough? If not, I can make more—you know, they’re all failures…”
She flicked her fingers and a thick stack of talismans appeared before them.
Yun Zhonghe pulled his lips into a half-smile, “Enough, enough. Hey, Su Xiaoxiao, why did you end up making so many talismans… oh, speaking of which, have you been having as many odd things happen lately?”
It suddenly hit him what he should really be concerned about and he shifted the topic.
Su Xiaoxiao pondered for a moment, “Come to think of it… well, maybe a bit less.”
Yun Zhonghe nodded with understanding in his eyes.
Sure enough, Su Xiaoxiao’s bad luck could be mitigated to some extent through human intervention. In the past game, players had already exploited her bad luck to find loopholes.
Her bad luck only significantly affected others when it reached extreme levels. As long as it stayed within a safe range, its impact would be minimal.
To decrease the bad luck, Su Xiaoxiao could engage in crafting different items.
Due to her bad luck, her crafting success rate would be low, sometimes producing strange results instead.
The more failures she accumulated, the more her bad luck would diminish.
The bad luck was now concentrated entirely on crafting failures.
Failed talismans were due to her bad luck, but every failure helped reduce her bad luck slightly, leading to fewer unfortunate events around her.
Once her bad luck was sufficiently consumed, she wouldn’t suffer from it anymore!
Long ago, Yun Zhonghe planned to address her bad luck problem by having her learn Refining Tools.
Based on the old game strategies, of the three secondary professions (talisman making, alchemy, refining tools), refining tools consumed the most luck.
Of course, this was in the game’s setting, which may not align with real life. Yun Zhonghe thought some testing would be needed.
“Hey, Su Xiaoxiao, are you ready to come with me to the Forge Peak?”
With Su Xiaoxiao’s various troubles mostly resolved, only bad luck remained. Yun Zhonghe felt it was time to tackle this issue.
And if handled well, perhaps Su Xiaoxiao’s bad luck could even help him.
Su Xiaoxiao tilted her head, curious, “Forge Peak? What for?”
“To forge you a special furnace specifically for refining.”
Having the right furnace was crucial for a Refiner.
Hearing this, Su Xiaoxiao quickly declined.
But before she could finish, Yun Zhonghe gently interrupted, “Su Xiaoxiao, you’re incredibly important to me, I can’t live without you. You know, you have high strategic value. Regardless of whether it’s me or Miss Mu or Miss Zhong, we all need someone like you—someone strong defensively—to stabilize our battle formations, and even for our own benefit. We’d do anything to help you grow stronger.”
He gazed intensely into Su Xiaoxiao’s eyes, as if pouring his determination and belief into her.
“Brother Yun… you mean it?”
Her heart raced so fast, it seemed ready to break out of her chest.
“Of course, it’s genuine.”
Yun Zhonghe responded without hesitation.
If Su Xiaoxiao became a Refiner, not only would she solve her personal bad luck problem but would also become a key part of his plan.
Recalling how they had slain two Gold Core demonic beasts in Qingzhu Town, Yun Zhonghe used Immortal Alliance mission points to acquire a cursed piece of Demon Steel. This steel reeked of ill fortune.
Her bad luck could potentially produce surprising effects during refining. According to previous guides, using her bad luck to refine could produce cursed magical treasures with extraordinary attributes.
Such magic items, though exceedingly powerful, also brought unpredictable disasters to the user.
But it shouldn’t be too much of a concern if given to Mu Jixue.
As the bearer of good luck, Mu Jixue’s extraordinary fortune would suppress any negative impacts from the cursed item.
Yun Zhonghe saw this as a great opportunity to strengthen Mu Jixue’s power.
Of course, all these plans were based on past guides and speculation. The true outcome, only time would tell.
In any case, even if not for Mu Jixue’s sake, Yun Zhonghe genuinely hoped Su Xiaoxiao would become a capable Refiner. This would greatly enhance her combat prowess, enabling her to keep up with Huang Aotian.
Only those with comparable strength could walk long paths together, weather storms side by side, and gradually foster deep feelings.
Yun Zhonghe knew these dynamics and was willing to quietly facilitate Su Xiaoxiao’s growth.
So, dear girl, go ahead! Focus on refining, leave the funds to the dad.
“Su Xiaoxiao, I want you to go refine something. Alright?”
Feeling the intensity of Yun Zhonghe’s emotions, Su Xiaoxiao sensed a grip on her heart that made her heart pound wildly.
“If that’s what Brother Yun wants… alright, I’ll do my best.”
Su Xiaoxiao nodded.
No matter how difficult or dangerous the path ahead, she’d march forward without hesitation.
“Let’s go! I’ll take you to the Forge Peak!” Yun Zhonghe cheered, dragging the girl toward the peak.
Su Xiaoxiao stumbled along, her heart racing violently, as if she wanted to break free into its own rhythm.
—
**Forge Peak**
One of the Seven Peaks of Xuantian Sect, also known as the jewel in the crown of the Cultivation Realm’s art of Refining.
Legend has it that beneath Forge Peak lies a rich ore vein, supplying top-quality materials like Xuan Iron continuously. Such materials are essential foundations for creating high-level magical treasures. Thanks to these resources, one master refiner after another has emerged.
Atop the peak, a legendary master once crafted a divine sword that shook the world, shattering the Demon Sovereign’s life-bound treasure into pieces.
From then on, Forge Peak became synonymous with legends, a shining star in the Cultivation Realm.
Aside from being a gem in legend, Forge Peak also boasts a unique advantage over other peaks:
It’s loaded with cash!
Seventy percent of Xuantian Sect’s income comes from the operations of Forge Peak.
The majority of weapons used by Xuantian Sect disciples are produced by blacksmiths on Forge Peak. Additionally, these weapons and magical items sell far and wide across four continents.
Apart from sales, Forge Peak also offers extensive services including repairs, enhancements, and advancements of magical treasures.
Spirit Stones flow in abundance.
The mountain peak of Forge Peak smolders with fire every day. Most male disciples here are tall with muscular builds, strong and built for labor.
Without proper physique, blacksmithing would be impossible.
Hence, nearly all these male disciples are Body Cultivators, strong as oxen, able to lift massive hammers with ease!
Entering the smithy, scorching heat enveloped Su Xiaoxiao and Yun Zhonghe immediately. The furnaces blazed fiercely, casting red shadows across their surroundings. Intense fire elemental energy swirled through the air, hot and intense.
Melding the sounds of metal striking against metal and flames leaping created a symphony of creation.
Amidst this fiery scene, a beautiful woman clad in red robes stood among the disciples. Grasping a delicate tool, she patiently instructed them on the nuances of refining magical items.
This was Zuhuo, the Zhenren (cultivate master) of Forge Peak.
Who would have thought that in this predominantly male-dominated peak, the leader would be a woman?
Yun Zhonghe led Su Xiaoxiao forward, bowing respectfully, “Zuhuo Zhenren, we are from Outer Gate.”
“Outer Gate?”
Zuhuo Zhenren turned, puzzledly looking at Yun Zhonghe and Su Xiaoxiao who had unexpectedly appeared as Outer Gate Disciples.
Clearly, the arrival of these Outer Gate Disciples took her by surprise.
After all, the Forge Peak was a place where Inner Gate disciples usually operated.
But upon seeing Yun Zhonghe’s identity badge—given by Master Qin—she realized it must be important.
With a calm demeanor, Zuhuo Zhenren asked, “What brings you here?”
Despite her indifferent manner, she spent a while sizing up Su Xiaoxiao, seemingly assessing something.
This young woman, though only at Foundation Establishment level, had honed her body impressively. Zuhuo could sense the faint spiritual energy pulsating beneath her skin, clear proof of diligent cultivation work.
Standing anxiously aside, Su Xiaoxiao avoided eye contact with Zuhuo Zhenren.
Worried about why Yun Zhonghe brought her directly to speak with Zuhuo, she felt her actions were perhaps too presumptuous.
She thought it was merely about finding a Refiner to set up a Furnace, but meeting such a big shot took her by surprise.
Directly finding a master-level official?!
Fortunately, Zuhuo’s manner remained casual but approachable, easing Su Xiaoxiao’s tension somewhat.
She sneakily glanced at Yun Zhonghe again, noting his composure. Clearly, Yun Zhonghe had foreseen this and was prepared.
Indeed, Yun Zhonghe had done his homework.
Zuhuo’s approach was relaxed and unconventional, and she would only put effort into helping those she saw potential in.
Unfortunately, Forge Peak faced a small but persistent issue—few female disciples.
Most female cultivators preferred spellcasting or swordsmanship, leaving body cultivation nearly unexplored territory.
Zuhuo couldn’t understand why body cultivation, which strengthened the body and also enhanced physical attractiveness, hadn’t caught on with women.
This vexing question had plagued her for a long time yet defied solution.
When she saw Su Xiaoxiao—someone with a remarkable physique and solid foundation—it was like an epiphany striking her.
Zuhuo couldn’t look away.
Yun Zhonghe smirked. This was precisely why he brought Su Xiaoxiao to Forge Peak.
Bringing just himself to persuade someone as influential as Zuhuo was a daunting task.
Buying a Refining Furnace would also be expensive.
So, he relied on Su Xiaoxiao’s “charm” to sway Zuhuo.
Bow deeply in respect, Yun Zhonghe addressed, “Zhenren, this female disciple is named Su Xiaoxiao. She is deeply passionate about Refiner’s techniques, studying day and night, yearning for the day she can create her very own magical item. Today, she specially seeks your help in forging a Refining Furnace to push forward on her path.”
“Oh?” Hearing this, Zuhuo’s lips curled into an intrigued smile. She scrutinized Su Xiaoxiao curiously, “Oh? Since you ask for a furnace, you must have come prepared. How many Spirit Stones are you willing to pay? Don’t tell me you expect freebies here.”
Despite the cost factor, the fact that Zuhuo spoke indicated interest in Su Xiaoxiao.
Daily, countless cultivators came to Forge Peak seeking her assistance, yet she personally greeted very few.
Most were told to go elsewhere since Forge Peak had plenty of Refiners to spare. Even offering money might not guarantee her willingness to participate.
“Um…” Su Xiaoxiao’s face contorted in distress.
She anticipated needing more than just a handful of Spirit Stones to get Zuhuo Zhenren’s furnace.
Even cheap ones were worth thousands, let alone the high-grade ones.
And Yun Zhonghe couldn’t continually shoulder her expenses.
Just then, Yun Zhonghe jumped in, “Zhenren, we didn’t come empty-handed. While we lack sufficient Spirit Stones, I’ve prepared a unique gift for you.”
Zuhuo raised her eyebrow in mild curiosity.
Yun Zhonghe retrieved a small bottle tied with a bow from his spatial ring and presented it to her reverently.
“What’s this?”
She cautiously removed the stopper; the sweet yet profound scent permeated the air instantly.
Yun Zhonghe smiled, “This is Pine Oil. Extracted from the essence of snow pine plants.”
He got this oil as a freebie from Xia Family Business before, today it comes in handy.
Discovering this oil back then, he immediately thought it might prove useful today.
Now, he hoped the oil would help save him a considerable amount of money for refinement.
Zuhuo sniffed the cold fragrance, slightly impressed yet unconvinced, “Your oil is excellent, but one small bottle isn’t enough to sway me.”
Undeterred, Yun Zhonghe added confidently, “Zhenren, watch closely—”
He quickly laid out a basic circular array on the ground using space magic taught in Xuantian Sect’s Outer Gate.
It was simple yet effective; everyone in the Sect knew it.
Gently placing the Pine Oil in the center, a light frosty mist rose. Drifting gently, it transformed into a cool breeze, sweeping through the forge area as smoothly as an intelligent air conditioner.
Sweaty blacksmiths sensed a refreshing scent, instantly relaxing.
That breeze carried the essence of pine, and the aura of nature, allowing everyone to feel serenity, transported to a snowy summit above the hustle and heat of the forge.
“What’s that smell?”
“I don’t know, but it’s so refreshing and cooling. Feels amazing!”
A slight look of wonder creased Zuhuo’s face. Her experienced eyes glittered with intrigue.
Diligently hammering amidst scorching heat, disciples often used water-based spells to cool down, but attribute conflicts could disrupt their practice.
Yun Zhonghe assured solemnly, “Zhenren, although Pine Oil is inherently cold, it’s a neutral natural energy. It won’t interfere with your Fire Elemental cultivation.”
Then he broke into a sincere grin, “We’re in an overwhelmingly Yang environment here. No water spells allowed. So we rely on Fire Elemental arrays to alleviate the heat. Hope these bring some soothing relief.”
Staring blankly, Zuhuo was astonished by Yun Zhonghe’s ingenuity. Cultivating at his level meant relying heavily on elemental manipulation, but this method of using Pine Oil and arrays was innovative and resourceful.
Impressed by both his intelligence and charm, Zuhuo instantly warmed to Yun Zhonghe.
Instantly her gaze softened towards him, even feeling a pull…
“You two are welcome to stay here, no need to return to the Outer Gate. Just focus on refining delicate yet powerful magical treasures. We need those kind of talents here!”
Zuhuo winked and extended an informal invitation, “Come here, no need for heavy labor. Just contribute with the refined magical items.
