The next six months saw Jiang Tao immersed in the intricate world of formations and the ongoing refinement of his cultivation. Each day was a blend of rigorous practice and intense study, as he worked tirelessly to master the art of formation crafting and enhance his cultivation base.

He had broken through to the foundation stage and made large strides in formations though much of what he learned was on the theoretical side.

Only a few basic formations were available to him as a foundation level cultivator, more lay in the higher cultivation realms. Regardless everything Master Yao had taught him was invaluable and increased his progress quite significantly.

The serene pond formation was something he couldn't live without now. The qi concentrating formation was an absolute crutch for him now and he wasn't afraid to admit it, the increased qi cycling speed was incredible.

He could create an ideal environment for cultivation wherever he went, provided he had the materials, it was absolutely cracked.

Today was no different he sat at the top of the cliff, the flags for the Serene Pond formation arranged meticulously around him. Once he'd gotten the hang of the Serene Pond formation, he abandoned the pavilion, preferring a new spot—a cliff that overlooked a calm, winding river.

Sure his formation couldn't compete with the Jade Lakes formations that Master Yao had set up at the pavilion but he needed the change in scenery and mindset was crucial for cultivation. Master Yao had let him go with an amused smile.

Jiang Tao took a deep breath, savoring the fresh mountain air. He'd grown to appreciate Howling Valley Territory, his earlier disdain and annoyance at being dumped in there slowly transformed into a sense of respect.

He could now understand the intentions of the sect elders. The harsh environment had taught him more than he could have learned in the safety of the sect's library or pavilions. Practical experience was invaluable; one couldn’t build a stable foundation on theory and simulation alone.

Elder Chen Zhiyuan still sucks though. He thought wryly.

Still, he couldn't wait to get back to Verdant Lotus Peak, as much as he enjoyed the solitude it was starting to chafe. Master Yao despite his profound knowledge was not the most engaging company. He missed having people around.

He had to reach mid foundation stage soon and see about finding the others. Foundation stage was a complete qualitative leap from qi awakening, nothing could compare to the absolute rush he felt when he broke through.

He felt absolutely heady with power; it was as if he could do anything. Master Yao had to remind him it was only the foundation stage, the absolute beginning of his cultivation journey and it was not something worth celebrating.

The old man's words put a damper on that, but it was necessary otherwise he’d have done something stupid like charge into a spirit beast den in search of a challenge drunk off of the power. He was proud of his progress, regardless.

The qi in his meridians cycled faster and faster as he tried to get it to undergo a phase change; in the foundation stage getting a solid grasp of your qi was how you advanced. That was nigh impossible in its ephemeral gas-like state which is why you had to condense it into a liquid-like state and that was easier said than done.

It was like herding cats, cycling it through his meridians was easy but controlling it on a finer scale, was something he couldn't get for the life of him.

Jiang Tao let out a deep sigh, this was uniquely hard. Blitzing through qi awakening had made him think it was going to be another cakewalk.

Why must man toil like this… He mused humorously at the slow progress. JUST GIMME ALL THE POWER!

The feeling of a drop of water took him out of his musings on his face then another, rain. The changed weather put a damper on his plans to cultivate on the cliff.

“Back to the pavilion.” He said with a sigh. “Wasn’t making much progress anyway,”

The weather of the valley had changed from his first month and now it was torrential downpour after torrential downpour.

He quickly gathered his flags and packed them away. The rain fell more heavily, transforming the serene, winding river below into a raging force.

He made his way down the cliff with a swift, careful pace, navigating the slick rocks and the muddy winding trail through the first that led to the pavilion. He’d have to move skillfully to avoid getting muddy.

He didn't mind getting wet but getting mud anywhere would tank his mood super quickly.

Tao leaped into the trees with a practiced ease, honed from his time in the forest, and from there it was just a matter of leaping from tree to tree till he got to the familiar clearing that housed Master Yao's pavilion.

As he landed with a soft thud on the familiar ground of the clearing, he took a moment to shake off the excess rainwater that clung to his robes.

Master Yao’s pavilion, nestled in the center of the clearing, looked serene despite the storm raging around it. The sturdy structure was well-protected against the elements, with the formation flags raging in the wind.

“Master Yao,” He called out as he entered the pavilion, dripping wet and carrying his formation flags.

His Master opened his eyes, his gaze betraying a hint of amusement. “Ah, back already, I see. I trust the storm didn’t catch you unawares?”

“Only a little,” Jiang Tao replied with a wry grin, setting down his flags and wringing out his sleeves. “But it did put an end to my training for the day,”

His bond with the elder cultivator had deepened to the point he didn't feel the need to be excessively formal with him anymore and could finally be more relaxed.

Master Yao nodded, gesturing for him to take a seat on the prayer mat that faced him. The old man's expression was oddly somber which made him pause before taking a seat.

“Master Yao is everything alright?” he asked a sense of concern welling up in his chest.

"Disciple, you have given this faded spirit much peace, but our time together is drawing to a close," Master Yao began, his voice softer than usual. “I have lingered in this valley for many millennia, bound by my own regrets and unfinished business. Teaching you has been a balm for my soul, but the time has come for me to move on.”

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Panic gripped Jiang Tao's heart as processed his master's words.

Move on?! He can't be planning on dying can he? He thought alarmed.

"Master Yao, what do you mean by 'move on'? Is there something happening?" Jiang Tao's voice betrayed his anxiety, his hands gripping the edge of the prayer mat.

Yao Xiang looked at Jiang Tao with a somber expression, a faint smile playing on his lips despite the seriousness of his words. "It is the way of all things that the teacher eventually passes on, and the student must forge their own path.”

"But why now? You have so much more to teach." Jiang Tao felt a pang of sadness "But—what will happen to me? What should I do next?"

The old man’s eyes twinkled with a hint of pride. "You have much potential, Jiang Tao. Embrace it and continue to strive forward. The world beyond this valley is vast and full of opportunities."

Master Yao reached into his robes and produced a small, intricately carved jade slip. He handed it to Jiang Tao who accepted it with a trembling hand.

"This jade slip contains the culmination of my knowledge and experiences. It will guide you in your future cultivation and in understanding formations at a deeper level. But remember, the true mastery of cultivation comes from within. Use this as a foundation to build upon."

His grip tightened around the jade slip as he fought to keep his emotions in check. It was all too sudden, why now? Could he convince him to delay it just a little longer, there was still so much he wanted to learn from him.

"Master Yao, please," Jiang Tao pleaded, his voice breaking slightly. "Can't you stay a little longer? There's still so much I need to learn from you."

A warm smile spread across Master Yao’s face, his eyes glistening with a mixture of pride and sorrow. “You have given this old man a chance to impart his legacy, you have lifted a substantial burden from my shoulders. A disciple of the celestial illumination sect you are destined for greatness, fate saw fit to align our paths, but your path was always one that would see you advance to great heights,”

Jiang Tao’s heart ached at Master Yao’s words. It seemed like his master couldn't be swayed but he had to try, regardless. He opened his mouth to speak once more but the sight of his master silenced his protests.

It was as if he was looking at the old man for the first time, Master Yao looked haggard and weary, The weight of countless years and unspoken burdens were suddenly visible. He couldn't do it, the plea died on his lips.

He couldn't ask the master Yao to stay, it would be cruel. He had to let go of the man, nine thousand years trapped in the valley was unfathomable.

Jiang Tao closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to steady himself. When he opened them again, his gaze was firm, but his voice wavered with emotion.

"I understand Master. This disciple is eternally grateful,”

Master Yao's gaze softened, and he placed a reassuring hand on Jiang Tao's shoulder.

"Remember, Jiang Tao, the teachings I've shared with you are not the end but merely a foundation, I have little doubt you will surpass my knowledge. The journey ahead is yours to walk.”

Tao swallowed hard, fighting back the emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. "I will honor your teachings, Master Yao. Your guidance has been invaluable."

Yao Xiang gave a slight nod, then his eyes took on a more resolute glint. "Good. I must task you with one last responsibility before I depart,”

“Anything,”

“In that tree,” master pointed behind him.

Tao turned to look at what Master Yao was pointing at. It was a massive, gnarled oak that he was certain wasn't there before. The sudden appearance of the tree had him raising his eyebrows in surprise.

That wasn't there before. He surmised.

"That tree," Master Yao said, his voice taking on a solemn tone, "Holds something very important. A treasure of mine, the vermillion flag of five infinities. The anchor of my way, a world king stage artifact, and now your inheritance as my disciple”

Jiang Tao's eyes widened in astonishment. A world king stage artifact was a treasure beyond his wildest dreams, far surpassing anything he could have imagined gaining at this stage of his cultivation.

Master Yao continued. “An incredible defensive artifact, It will aid in your formations, allowing you to execute formations of a higher realm and it is the keystone of the culmination of my knowledge. The Abyssal Rivers of Hell Formation,”

His heart raced as he tried to grasp the magnitude of what was being given to him, an anchor artifact was a cultivator's innate artifact refined within the dantian and manifested once you reached the Anchor manifestation realm.

That Master Yao was leaving such a treasure to him was nothing short of overwhelming. The vermillion flag of five infinities was not just an artifact; it was a symbol of Master Yao's entire journey until he achieved World King stage.

“Many covetous eyes will wish to take it from you, guard it with your life and use it wisely.” Master Yao advised.

Jiang Tao could only nod, not trusting words to express the depth of his gratitude.

“The path ahead is one fraught with danger, I hope this gift will see you achieve greater fortune than those who came before you.”

The rain had slowed to a gentle drizzle, he slowly stood from his seated position and bowed deeply to his master.

"Thank you, Master Yao," Jiang Tao said, his voice steady despite the emotions swirling within him. "This disciple will strive to honor your legacy."

Master Yao regarded him with a look of pride. “Now, go retrieve the Vermillion Flag of Five Infinities,”

Jiang Tao took a deep breath and walked towards the towering oak, he couldn't help but feel a nagging sense of finality with each step. He let the rain drench him not caring to minimize the wetness seeping through his already damp robes.

The chill was a welcome distraction from the turmoil he was feeling.

The flag's vibrant red stood out starkly against the dull gray of the overcast sky and the dark green of the oak’s foliage. It seemed to pulse with an inner light, casting a faint, warm glow even through the rain.

He reached up and grasped a branch, hoisting himself up the ancient tree. The tree's bark was rough and wet, but Jiang Tao climbed with practiced ease, making his way toward the fluttering flag.

A nagging feeling made him pause, and he looked back at the clearing where Master Yao stood watching him with a small smile urging him onwards.

A pit opened in his stomach and he swallowed hard, he ascended further till the flag was within reach; he couldn't help back take another look back at the pavilion, the sinking feeling in his gut had grown stronger.

He could see Master Yao nodding at him, urging him to recover the flag, with a trembling hand he grasped the flag, feeling its weight and warmth as he pulled it down from its perch. It yielded too easily for his liking, the gnawing sense in his gut was absolutely unbearable.

When he glanced over his shoulder at the clearing Jiang Tao’s heart clenched.

The once proud pavilion he had called home during his time in the forest suddenly stood desolate, overgrown with brambles and weeds it had rapidly aged to nothing more than ruins.

He couldn't see Master Yao at all, his presence seemed to have vanished completely.

He's gone. He knew it.

Jiang Tao descended the tree with the Vermillion Flag of Five Infinities in tow. When he reached the ground, he could only stare at the desolate pavilion, feeling as though a part of his own soul had been stripped away with it.

The flag in his hands felt heavy, he knew when he had removed it from its perch he had unraveled what remained of his master's existence. As he approached the desolate remains of the pavilion, an oppressive sense of loss fell over him.

He paused near what had once been the center of the pavilion. The memory of Master Yao’s teachings and the warmth of his presence seemed to linger faintly in the air, but the reality of his absence was undeniable.

With deep reverence he kowtowed thrice to the spot where Master Yao sat, his forehead touching the cool wet cracked rocked of rock of the ruins. The chilling drizzle continued to fall, mingling with the tears he refused to shed.

Thank you.

As he finally straightened, Tao looked around the clearing trying to gather his thoughts.

Time to move on. He thought somberly, this chapter of his life had come to a close, it was time to brave the wilderness and look for his friends.

With a deep, resolute breath, Jiang Tao turned away from the ruins, his path now clear despite the heavy sense of loss. With a running leap, he was in the trees.