уАКCultivation: Being ImmortalуАЛ


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1

    Yun State''s Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    Lin Jiang lowered his head, afraid to meet the gaze of the imposing man above him. Lin Jiang felt guilty, as this is the world of cultivation, unsure if they would discover that he was an imposter who had taken over someone else''s body.

    "Lin Jiang -the sixth son of the Lin family, cking in cultivation for three years- asmanded by the family head, his servants will be taken away and his wages will be suspended for three years."

    The serious man looked at Lin Jiang, sighed, and announced the punishment from the master of the house. It had been three years, and still only at the first level of Qi Refining. This was uneptable. Hopefully, this punishment would make Sixth Young Master change his ways and work hard in cultivation from now on.

    As soon as the words fell, more than ten servants around burst into tears. They had been following Sixth Young Master for over ten years, enjoying a carefree life in this estate. They really didn''t want to leave.

    However, the men brought along by the man scolded them and ultimately took them onto a flying boat, leaving the estate behind.

    "Stop staring and go do what you need to do!"

    After everyone had left, Lin Jiang finally became active. There were still people whispering around him, but Lin Jiang waved his hand and asked them to leave. Those who remained were the tenants of the estate, not his servants anymore.

    Stepping into the most luxurious building in the estate, Lin Jiangy down on the big bed, feeling relieved. He had finally passed the first test.Three months ago, he was just an ordinary worker on Earth, working hard every day. Then, he suddenly died in the blink of an eye. His soul drifted into this world, coincidentally taking over the body of the original Lin Jiang who had died while practicing cultivation. It was a case of soul transmigration.

    The current Lin Jiang was a young master of the Lin family in the Yun State. However, he was an illegitimate son. Fifty years ago, the Lin family''s head, Lin Batian, established himself in the Yun State, opened the mountain gate, took in many wives, and had nine sons and six daughters. He also relied on his exceptional skill with the Overlord Spear to expand his territory and be a renowned rising cultivation family in the Yun State.

    Because the family''s foundation was weak, Lin Batian had high expectations for his children. He measured everything based on their cultivation realm. If their cultivation advanced quickly, he would favor them and give them family property abundantly. There would also be arge number of servants. If their cultivation was not up to par, they would only be sent to some forgotten corner.

    The original owner Lin Jiang was considered a waste because his spiritual root was a Five Spiritual Root. He needed three to five times more spiritual energy than someone with an average spiritual root, so his progress in cultivation was very slow. That was why he was sent to this Spiritual Peach Mountain.

    "Before crossing over, it was difficult; after crossing over, it remains difficult. Doesn''t that mean I''ve crossed over for nothing?"

    Lin Jiang remembered the days of the original owner, which were truly pitiful. Every day, as soon as he woke up, he would start cultivating, and even in his dreams, he was still cultivating. In the end, he trained himself to death at the young age of seventeen.

    So now Lin Jiang decided to lie t and not bother about the difficult situation.

    "Ding dong, friendly reminder from the system: host didn''t check in today, would you like to check in?"

    "Oh no, I almost forgot about this. Check in."

    In a dazed state, Lin Jiang suddenly heard a sound like electronic machinery, and immediately became alert. He responded in his mind.

    "Congrattions, host, check-in sessful. Reward: one additional year of life."

    "Open the system page."

    "Ding dong, the system page has opened."

    System name: Lifespan Check-in System.

    Host: Lin Jiang.

    Lifespan: 17/80.

    Lin Jiang looked at the system''s numbers and couldn''t help but smile. He also had a special advantage called "golden finger". As soon as he arrived in this world, the system activated.

    This Lifespan Check-in System couldn''t give him powerful talents, top-level techniques, or any kind of elixirs. It only had one purpose, and that was to increase his lifespan. By checking in each day, he would receive a reward of one extra year of lifespan.

    Lin Jiang was already very satisfied with this. ording to the system''s logic, as long as he kept checking in, his lifespan would never run out. It was as if he could live forever.

    Just think about his current father, who had been practicing diligently for over a hundred years and had only reached the Golden Core Stage. The Golden Core Stage couldst for 500 years, which might seem long, but with just ten more months of checking in, Lin Jiang could surpass him.

    His current starting point was the finish line that others couldn''t catch up to in ten lifetimes.

    "All roads lead to Rome, but some people are born in Rome. How about that, jealous?"

    Lin Jiang giggled, turned over, and went back to sleep. Cultivating immortality, you know, took about two hours a day, the rest of the time was for sleeping.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Sixth Brother, Sixth Brother, why are you still sleeping?"

    After some time, a petite girl climbed onto Lin Jiang''s bed and grabbed his ear.

    "Lin Ying, how many times have I told you, you''ve grown up, you''re thirteen now, stop crawling into my bed. Look at Third Sister, she doesn''t even enter my room."

    Lin Jiang threw the little girl off the bed and then pointed at the door. A cold girl, dressed in ck, stood outside, watching themotion with a wrinkled brow.

    "Sixth Brother, I''m your real sister, and you treat me like this. I''ll tell Mom."

    "I really can''t stand you. What trouble did you bring this time? The Spiritual Peach Mountain''s peaches are all gone."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. He didn''t want to meet his mother. Every time they met, she tried to influence him and make him strive to please his father, which waspletely against his nature.

    "Tsk, I didn''te here to eat peaches. I came tofort you."

    "Comfort me? Why do you want tofort me?"

    "Didn''t our father punish you? The servants around you have been taken away, and your sry has been stopped for three years."

    "Tsk, is that all?"

    "Sixth Brother, isn''t this serious?"

    Lin Ying was astonished. She thought her brother had changed a lot. A few years ago, he was sent to this mansion by their father and was furious about it. Now, he had lost his sry and servants and yet he wasn''t angry.

    "Come out and talk."

    Lin Die, who was outside the door, became angry as the siblings kept talking. She couldn''t just enter the room freely, even if her half-brother lived there.

    Lin Jiang tidied up his clothes and, with Lin Ying, went to the hall. There were no servants around, and no one brought them tea, so they casually sat down.

    "Third Sister."

    "Lin Jiang, what''s wrong with you? Why are you still stuck at the first level of Qi Refining? Your fifth brother, with his Five Spiritual Root, reached the second level of Qi Refiningst year."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I don''t know either. I''ve been practicing, but there hasn''t been any progress."

    Lin Jiang said. The original Lin Jiang was really diligent, but unfortunately, his cultivation didn''t improve. Could you believe it?

    "You really don''t know what''s good for you. Big Brother''s grandson was tested for Spiritual Rootst month. Our Lin family''s fourth generation is about to start practicing. Don''t you want to be able topete even with the fourth generation? If you can''t, you won''t have a foothold in the Lin family."

    "If you don''t have it, then you don''t. I have this Spiritual Peach Mountain, and it''s enough for me."

    "How big is this Spiritual Peach Mountain of yours? How many spirit stones can you earn each year? Even if your mother really gave you the actual Spiritual Peach Mountain, what difference would it make?"

    Lin Die was infuriated upon hearing this. Among their generation of siblings, Lin Jiang had the lowest cultivation. Even the Lin family''s third generation was better than him. It was truly shameful.

    "Third Sister, Third Sister, don''t scold Sixth Brother anymore, I''ll take care of him in the future."

    Lin Ying quickly said, as she saw Lin Die getting angry and about to swear, she immediatelyforted her.

    "Lin Jiang, you won''t really rely on Lin Ying to protect you in the future, will you?"

    "Sisters protecting brothers, it doesn''t seem impossible."

    "Youбн"

    Lin Die got so angry that she spat blood, she shook her sleeve and stood up, unable to continue the conversation; useless was just useless.

    "Sixth Brother, Sixth Brother, hey, take the spirit stones first, I''ll go after Third Sister."

    Lin Ying saw Lin Die getting angry, she quickly took out some spirit stones and stuffed them into Lin Jiang''s hand, then swiftly chased after Lin Die.

    Lin Jiang looked at the spirit stones in his hand, he couldn''t help butugh and cry, then shook his head, not caring anymore, he had already died once, he had long since stopped caring about fame and such.

    Lin Jiang put away the spirit stones and couldn''t fall asleep. He walked out of the hall and headed towards the fields. Even though it was alreadyte, there were still things to be done. Now Lin Jiang needed to inspect his own property.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2

    The estate where Lin Jiang lived was called the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. It covered an area of about thirty miles, all of which was owned by the vi. However, the vi was not very big, with only around a hundred households. It not only had walls, but also a Formation Array.

    The Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had one hundred and twenty acres of peach orchards. These peach trees were not ordinary peach trees, but magical nts. The peaches they produced were not only extremely sweet, but also had a spiritual essence, known as spiritual peaches.

    The spiritual peaches in the vi bore fruit once a year. Half of the harvest was used for the family''s own consumption, while the other half was sold. They could be sold for about seventy to eighty magic stones. In addition, there were two hundred acres of spiritualnd in the vi, which produced spiritual rice that was also sold to the family. The price was slightly lower than the market, and earned about a hundred magic stones each year. This was the vi''s total ie.

    Lin Jiang could keep about half of these two hundred magic stones, because strictly speaking, the vi didn''t belong to Lin Jiang, but rather to Lin Jiang''s mother as her dowry.

    Lin Jiang''s dear mother came from a family of independent cultivators. Lin Jiang''s grandfather was a Foundation Building Stage independent cultivator. When he saw that Lin Batian was very powerful and had great potential, he arranged for his daughter to be Lin Batian''s concubine and gave a generous dowry as well.

    Afterwards, Lin Batian became more and more powerful, continuously annexing the surrounding territories. Lin Jiang''s mother used her dowry to buy the Magical Peach Mountain Vi, aiming for a stable and sustainable ie.

    Three years ago, the previous Lin Jiang, angered Lin Batian by hisck of progress in cultivation, and was punished by him. Lin Jiang''s mother couldn''t bear to see this and handed over the management of the vi to her son, secretly providing him financial support. She hoped that her son could stand up for himself, gain some prestige, and give her some face. After all, a son''s sess would also give her a chance topete for favor in Lin Batian''s backyard.

    "Master Lin."

    "Master Lin.""Master Lin."

    Arriving at the spiritualnd, the tenant farmers in the fields continuously greeted and thanked Lin Jiang and the Lin family sincerely.

    Because in this world, there was no government, but there were stillndlords, bullies, bandits, and even wild beasts and demons. It was not an exaggeration to say that ordinary people outside were living in constant danger.

    But in the Peach Garden Manor, they had walls and formations for protection. Bandits, as well as wild beasts and demons could not enter. The rent that the Lin family asked for was very low. They only requird one hundred and twenty mu of peach forest and all the output of two hundred mu of spiritualnd. They could cultivate the rest of thend as they pleased, and they could keep all the harvest for themselves. They had no problem with food and clothing.

    Lin Jiang looked left and right in the spiritualnd and found that the spiritual rice paddies were growing well. This year might be better thanst year, so they could harvest more spiritual rice and earn more spirit stones.

    Along the patrol route, he also encountered several guards. These guards were not cultivators, but ordinary people who had some martial arts training. They patrolled the estate to guard against beasts and regr bandits. If they encountered demons or enemy cultivators, they would sound an rm, and Lin Jiang would send a voice transmission symbol to the family for reinforcements. There would naturally be more powerful cultivators to deal with them.

    When the patrol was over, Lin Jiang returned to his own house and began to meditate and practice cultivation. He set a goal for himself to practice two hours a day. After all, he didn''tck lifespan. If necessary, he could cultivate for hundreds of years to reach the Qi Refining period.

    After finishing his training, the food was already prepared by the housekeeper. Although the cook''s skills were not as good as the previous servant''s, Lin Jiang didn''t mind. He had been eating meals from fast food boxes for years, so this was nothing.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    System Name: Lifespan Check-in System

    Host: Lin Jiang

    Lifespan: 17/180

    In the blink of an eye, three months had passed. On this day, just after Lin Jiang checked in with the system, a guard hurriedly entered the room.

    "Young Master, the family''s steward has arrived."

    "Understood, take him to the warehouse. I''ll be there shortly."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The spiritual paddy crop had been harvested this year, and the Lin family had sent a steward to purchase it. This was a big event for the estate.

    When Lin Jiang arrived at the warehouse, a middle-aged man was already waiting there. He saw Lin Jiang and greeted him with a smile. He was a worker hired by Lin Batian and considered a temporary worker for the Lin family. Even though his status was not high, he was still very respectful to the young master of the Lin family.

    "Oh, it''s Steward Wu. You must be tired, sir."

    "Sixth Young Master, you''re being polite. Shall we begin?"

    "Alright, let''s get started then."

    Lin Jiang nodded and gave some instructions. The servants carried the bags of spiritual paddy out of the warehouse and weighed them.

    "Sixth Young Master, the weather hasn''t been very good this year. The price of spiritual paddy in Yun State has increased a little. Now, one spirit stone can only buy five hundred kilograms. ording to tradition, how about six hundred kilograms for one spirit stone?"

    Steward Wu said to Lin Jiang that when members of the Lin family sold their personal belongings to the family, they got a slightly lower price than outside. The advantage was that they could sell as much as they had without having to do it themselves.

    "No problem."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and agreed. Although he would lose a bit in terms of price, he saved a lot of trouble. This was normal in Lin Jiang''s view.

    Spiritual paddy was heavier than regr rice. The best spiritualnd could yield around 600 kilograms per acre. Lin Jiang owned 200 acres of spiritualnd with average quality, and he harvested over 80,000 kilograms of spiritual paddy. He kept 20,000 kilograms for himself and sold the rest to his family.

    "Sixth Young Master, this is a receipt. You can go to the family''s ounting office to collect the money in a few days."

    Steward Wu took out several storage bags, packed them in batches, and gave Lin Jiang a receipt. He could go to the family''s ounting office to collect the money.

    Lin Jiang nodded and bid goodbye to Steward Wu. He asked the servants to help mill the rice. Immortals didn''t eat regr grains, but rather spirit food, which benefitted their cultivation. Lin Jiang nned to send some of the remaining spirit rice to his beloved mother and sister, Lin Ying. Although the family provided some rations, it wasn''t enough for a whole year, so he needed to buy extra.

    In the blink of an eye, two more months passed and it was the end of the year. Lin Jiang instructed the guards to prepare tworge carts loaded with 10,000 kilograms of milled spirit rice. Due to his limited financial means, he couldn''t afford a storage bag big enough to hold all the rice. He decided to take it to the Lin family.

    The Lin family''s gate was approximately 800 miles away from the estate. However, the horses pulling the carts had the bloodline of mythical creatures, extremely strong. Traveling 500 miles per day was a piece of cake, and they reached the destination in just two days.

    "Oh, isn''t this my Sixth Uncle?"

    As Lin Jiang arrived at the entrance, a casual voice sounded. Lin Jiang turned around and saw his nephew, Lin Ke Wen, the eldest son of his elder brother Lin Shan, who was a few years older than him.

    "Ke Wen, you don''t even pay your respects to your Sixth Uncle. You don''t believe I will report youter?"

    "You, youбн"

    "What about me? Has the family forgotten its manners?"

    "You''re tough, nephew has met Sixth Uncle."

    In the end, Lin Ke Wen got scared. The Lin family, as an up-anding family, has strict rules. Lin Batian also valued filial piety. Despite Lin Jiang being a disgrace to the second generation of the Lin family, he was still Lin Ke Wen''s uncle.

    "Nephew, since you''ve been so disobedient, you won''t be receiving the New Year''s money this year."

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter and then entered through the Lin family''s main gate.

    ording to Lin Batian''s rules, except for important matters like secluded practice, the whole family gathered at the end of the year. Therefore, within the Lin family''s main gate, Lin family members could be seen everywhere.

    "Greetings, Big Brother."

    "Hello, Second Elder Brother."

    "Hello, Third Sister."

    Lin Jiang bowed all the way, in the Lin family''s second generation he was the sixth eldest brother, he had to bow first to the five older siblings in front of him, and the younger brothers and sisters behind him had to bow to him.

    After that, Lin Jiang went to see his father Lin Batian and his formal wife Mrs. Zheng. He also had to give them each two thousand kilograms of spirit rice. This wouldn''t be given for nothing. When the New Year came, they would give him a bigger gift in return.

    After greeting his father, he went to see his mother Zhuang Rong. Zhuang Rong, his mother, was naturally beautiful and ranked high among Lin Batian''s concubines. Lin Jiang and Lin Ying both inherited her good genes and were also good-looking.

    Zhuang Rong had reached the seventh level of Qi Refining and had good Spiritual Root talent, but unfortunately, she had a love brain. She hadn''t taken her cultivation seriously since marrying Lin Batian. She was solely focused onpeting for his favor. As a result, for more than ten years, her cultivation hadn''t progressed at all.

    "My child, you have sufferedбн"

    Seeing Lin Jiang, Zhuang Rong immediately hugged him, and tears started to fall. Although Zhuang Rong wasn''t very smart, she was very good to her children.

    Lin Jiang resisted this show of affection, but his cultivation was not as good as his mother''s, so he couldn''t break free. He could only seek help from Lin Ying, who came over with a smile and advised him.

    Zhuang Rong let go of Lin Jiang and tearfullyined to him. She told him about the mistreatment she had suffered in the sect and how she had been bullied by a certain aunt. Then, she changed the subject and said that a mother''s pride relied on her child''s sess. She wanted Lin Jiang to quickly improve his cultivation so that she could proudly hold her head high and have a sense of superiority. This was more or less what she said every time they met.

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes when he heard this. The original Lin Jiang might believe it, but Lin Jiang knew from the original owner''s memories that their mother was a fierce person. She only treated others well if she didn''t bully them, so no one could bully her.

    "Son, why aren''t you speaking? Say something."

    "Mother, don''t get angry when your son speaks."

    "Tell me, why would mother be angry with you?"

    "Mother, this is what I think. It''s better to rely on oneself than on others. Father is in the Golden Core Stage, able to live for five hundred years. The other stepmothers are in the Qi Refining Stage, able to live for around a hundred years. When they reach their seventies or eighties, even the best cultivation technique can''t prevent aging. If I were Mother, I would definitely work hard to improve my cultivation and reach the Foundation Building Stage. That way, I could outlive the other stepmothers. If I could reach the Golden Core Stage, even the main mother''s Foundation Building Stage would pale inparison. We could stay together for five hundred years, just like Father."

    "If both Father and Mother could advance to the Nascent Soul or Soul Formation stage, or even ascend together, wouldn''t you be able to be together forever, as happy immortalpanions?"

    Lin Jiang couldn''t help bute up with an idea. Silly mother, in the cultivation world, the essence of pce intriguesy in cultivation. No matter how beautiful you were, you couldn''t be eighteen forever. But there were always eighteen-year-old girls every year. Even if you defeated this group of stepmothers, what if father took more concubines?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    So it all came down to cultivation. Only when your cultivation level was high was it truly useful. If you reached the Golden Core Stage, you could dance at Mrs. Zheng''s tomb after a hundred years or so.

    Zhuang Rong''s eyes lit up when she heard this. It made so much sense. If she reached the Golden Core Stage, she would see who could oust her.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3

    At the end of the year, the family gathered for a meal.

    In a huge hall, three tables were set up. The women sat at one table, Lin Batian and the second generation of the Lin family sat at another, and the third generation had their own table.

    Lin Batian had nine sons and six daughters. The eldest brother, Lin Shan, was already forty-eight years old and had reached the peak of the tenth level of Qi Refining. The second brother, Lin He, was forty-six years old and also at the tenth level of Qi Refining. The third girl, Lin Die, was twenty-five years old and had reached the seventh level of Qi Refining, being the most talented among the second generation of the Lin family.

    The fourth girl, Lin Yuan, was twenty-four years old and had reached the fourth level of Qi Refining. The fifth brother, Lin Hai, was also twenty-four and had reached the fifth level of Qi Refining. Then there was the sixth brother, Lin Jiang, who was seventeen years old and at the first level of Qi Refining.

    Lin Jiang''s younger siblings had not started their cultivation yet. Cultivation didn''t have to start too early. Lin Batian set a rule that cultivation would begin at the age of twelve. Before the age of twelve, some physical exercises were done. Now that the Lin family had more money, they would even have medicinal baths.

    The eldest grandson of Lin Shan, the eldest brother of the Lin family, was Lin Keli, who achieved the seventh level of Qi Refining at the age of thirty. There were also seven or eight descendants at the third and fourth levels. After Lin Batian''s painstaking efforts for decades, the Lin family had now established its position in the Yun State.

    Following the tradition of previous years, Lin Batian would review the achievements of many descendants today. Those who did well would naturally receive more rewards, while those who did poorly would receive strong criticisms.

    "Lin Jiang."

    Lin Batian gave ament, but he put Lin Jiang at the end. Throughout the process, Lin Jiang was just eating and almost made Lin Batian angry."Dad, I''m here."

    "Can you stand up for me? Your nephew''s cultivation level is higher than yours."

    Lin Batian was very satisfied with his many children. Even if their cultivation speed was not fast, they had other talents that could help him manage the family. But this youngest child was really going to drive him crazy. He couldn''t do anything right. It had been five years, and he was still at the first level of Qi Refining Stage.

    "I understand, Dad. I will definitely work hard on my cultivation."

    "If you still can''t break through to the second stage next year, I''ll kick you out. It''s really making me angry."

    "I understand, Dad."

    Lin Jiangzily answered, but he didn''t care. He wasn''t in a hurry. He was already over five hundred years old, living longer than his old man. As for the Qi Refining Stage, it didn''t seem embarrassing to practice for a few hundred years.

    The other brothers of the Lin family shook their heads secretly at this. If Lin Batian wasn''t present, they would sarcastically mock their useless brother. He was causing them embarrassment, and they were ashamed to say that they had such a brother.

    The Lin family didn''t have any fancy family traditions yet. The whole family was still growing, so the atmosphere at this gathering was still good. Lin Jiang couldn''t care about too much, the meal was just too delicious.

    Whether it was meat or vegetables, they were all grown in spiritualnd. When the head chef cooked them, they became incredibly tasty. Lin Jiang was too busy enjoying his meal.

    "Sixth Brother, stop eating. You''re only at the first level of Qi Refining. Do you want to explode and die?"

    Lin Hai, who was standing beside them, couldn''t bear to watch anymore. He quickly stopped Lin Jiang. These foods were full of spiritual energy. Someone on the first level of Qi Refining couldn''t eat much of them. They would explode and die if they couldn''t handle the spiritual energy in them.

    Lin Jiang was frightened by these words and quickly put down his chopsticks. However, Lin Jiang had already decided that when he returned to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, he would also raise some magical beasts to eat. He would also develop a few acres of spiritualnd to grow vegetables.

    Life was all about being happy. If you weren''t happy, then what was the point of eternal life?

    The young disciples couldn''t handle the spiritual energy and quickly left the scene. Those with higher cultivation continued. Lin Jiang also left with his sister Lin Ying. Lin Ying was thirteen years old and had been practicing for a year. She had the same level of cultivation as Lin Jiang.

    "Sixth Brother, they''re all going to the market. Should we go too?"

    "Okay, I''ll listen to you."

    Lin Jiang nodded his head. The original owner had been to the market, but he hadn''t been yet and wanted to go and see.

    Thirty miles away from Lin Jiang''s mountain gate, there was a market founded by the Lin family. It was used as a trading ce for cultivators within a thousand miles. This was also a very important source of ie for the Lin family. Lin Jiang''s eldest brother usually presided over the market.

    Of course, relying on him alone was not enough. Lin Batian had also recruited many auxiliary officials at the Foundation Establishment Period to guard the town. The Lin family''s heritage was too thin, and their descendants hadn''t fully grown yet. Currently, many crucial positions in the Lin family were filled by people that Lin Batian had invited. Lin Batian was also the absolute pir of the Lin family. If he was gone, the Lin family would immediately copse, and it couldn''t even avoid being swallowed up.

    It would take several decades to wait until the second and third generations of the Lin family were fully grown, and they had a group of cultivators at the Foundation Establishment Period. Only then could the Lin family be considered truly stable.

    The market of the Lin family was crowded with arge number of independent cultivators. There were also many ordinary people. As the end of the year approached, it became even more lively, with a wide variety of snacks and other things.

    The currency in the market was spirit stones and spiritual beads. The standard spirit stone in the cultivation world was three inches long, one inch wide, and one inch thick. The remaining scraps were polished into spiritual beads. In theory, one hundred spiritual beads could be exchanged for one spirit stone.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    As long as one didn''t buy cultivation resources, the purchasing power of spirit stones was still strong. Lin Jiang bought a lot of snacks for Lin Ying and it only cost around twenty spiritual beads.

    "Brother, Brother, look, this is Mother''s shop."

    "This is grandmother''s, and that is also grandmother''s."

    "That belongs to Aunt Wu."

    "This belongs to Auntie Lin."

    Lin Ying pointed at the many shops in the market and said, "More than half of the shops in the market belong to Lin Batian''s wives and concubines. Of course, they don''t run the shops themselves, they rent them out to others and only collect the rent each year."

    Lin Jiang was not interested in these things. He had no talent for business. He preferred Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He loved farming. Farming was a talent ingrained in his genes.

    They yed until midnight before the group of Lin family young masters anddies hurried back to the mountain gate. Normally, they wouldn''t be allowed to return sote because it wasn''t very safe.

    Early the next morning, Lin Jiang bid farewell to Zhuang Rong. He had to return to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He had a somewhat cold personality. The crowd at Lin family''s mountain gate was toorge and too bustling for his liking.

    Before leaving, Zhuang Rong handed a bag of spirit stones to Lin Jiang and said, "Son, you must cultivate well. If you can''t break through the second level by next year, your father will really kick you out."

    "Mom, I have money. What do I need this for?"

    "Listen, take it. Starting this year, all the earnings from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi will go to you. Don''t give it to me anymore. I have money. Your grandfather left me a lot. Since you''re my only son, who else should I give it to?"

    "Lin Ying also started practicing, and I need to take care of her a bit."

    "Keep it, don''t worry, practice well."

    "Got it, got it."

    Lin Jiang epted the spirit stone and sighed in his heart. It''s a pity that parents'' love for their children, he couldn''t let it go.

    Two dayster, Lin Jiang returned to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. The tenants in the estate were busy decorating for the New Year. Mortals still paid attention to these things, but cultivators were not as interested. After all, high-level cultivators usually focused on seclusion and didn''t bother with such matters.

    Lin Jiang pondered on how to manage the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi well. Now, all the ie from the vi belonged to him, but what was the difference?

    Even though Lin Jiang was taking it easy, he wouldn''t mind having a few more spirit stones. The more spirit stones, the better.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4

    After the New Year, Lin Jiang made some changes to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. First, he gathered the tenants and dug a fish pond of over ten acres inside the estate. Then, he bought a hundred Silver Light Fish from the Lin family market. These Silver Light Fish are low-ranked monster beasts with fierce temperaments and delicious meat. Lin Jiang had eaten them during a family gathering and had a vivid memory of it.

    Afterwards, they built a pig shed and raised twenty Iron-backed Pigs. Iron-backed Pigs were a type of wild animal that hadn''t reached a high level yet--they were of the lowest level, but their meat was really good.

    Lin Jiang also had the tenants develop twenty acres of specialnd, with two acres used for growing vegetables and the rest used for growing spiritual herbs to feed the Iron-backed Pigs and Silver Light Fish.

    From then on, Lin Jiang secluded himself at home, meditating and practicing cultivation every day, chopping firewood, feeding the pigs, and taking care of the fish. He was living freely and happily. The Lin family visited less and less, and if it weren''t for Zhuang Rong and Lin Ying mentioning him from time to time, the Lin family would almost forget that Lin Jiang existed.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    Three yearster, the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    A young and beautiful girl, holding a steel fork, stared intently at a creature in front of her; oh, no, it was actually a Silver Light Fish.

    "Bang!"

    In an instant, the girl thrust her steel fork forward."Wow, Sixth Brother, Sixth Brother, I hit it! We have fish to eat again."

    The girl put away the fork; on top of it was a Silver Light Fish weighing about ten kilograms. Holding the fish, she came to Lin Jiang.

    "Sister, you''re amazing. Come, let''s add a dish for lunch."

    Lin Jiang happily put away the Silver Light Fish, skillfully removed the scales and internal organs of the fish, cut some pieces of wild ginger, added some cooking wine and other spices, then put them in a bowl to marinate.

    "Sixth Brother, your ce is stillfortable. Dad is getting more and more crazy, wanting me to practice cultivation all day long. It''s so boring."

    The girl pulled over a nket, directlyy down on it, andined to Lin Jiang. She secretly sneaked out,monly known as cking off.

    "Who made you talented? Dad has high hopes for you. Look at Third Sister Lin Die, she''s almost at the Foundation Building stage."

    Lin Jiang happily said, casually took a few skewers of already grilled Iron-backed Pig meat and handed them to Lin Ying.

    The speed of cultivating immortality depended on two factors. One was aptitude, which depended on Spiritual Root. Like Lin Jiang''s Five Spiritual Roots, it was the worst kind. Lin Ying had Three Spiritual Roots, which was not as good as single and double Spiritual Roots, but among the second generation of the Lin family, it was considered good.

    The second factor was understanding. Some people couldn''t grasp a cultivation technique even after practicing for several months, while others could learn it just by reading it a couple of times. This was the difference in understanding. Lin Ying was top-notch in this aspect, so she was increasingly valued by Lin Batian and he became stricter with her.

    "I am not as hardworking as Third Sister. She spends eight hours practicing every day and only sleeps for one hour. She is even studying alchemy!"

    "Fine, I won''t practice anymore."

    "Not practicing won''t work either. We already have 20 brothers and sisters, and Mother relies on me too. We can''t count on you either."

    "Our father is still skilled with his ''sword''."

    Lin Jiang could only shake his head. After three years, Lin Batian hadn''t forgotten about ''farming''. After having nine sons and six daughters, he continued to have more children. Now even the twentieth child hade out.

    "Brother, when will you break through to the second level? It''s been ten years for you, but I broke through to the second level when I was fourteen."

    "Taking my time."

    Lin Jiang threw a wine sk over. Inside was Peach Blossom Wine, brewed from the spiritual peach blossoms of Peach Mountain Vi. Its taste was extraordinary and very delicious.

    As for Lin Jiang''s cultivation, he wasn''t in a hurry. He had been practicing at the first level of Qi Refining for ten years, and it would only take him a few more months to break through.

    "If you don''t make progress next year, Dad will really kick you out. Even the others call you a shame of the Lin family. Mom won''t be able to plead for you anymore."

    Lin Ying was very worried about this. Two years ago, Lin Batian said he would kick out Lin Jiang. It was her mother Zhuang Rong who pleaded for Lin Jiang. It won''t be possible to plead this year.

    "Alright, let''s make progress this year."

    "Really, Brother?"

    "Really, I''m not lying to you. Here, have a peach."

    "Where did the peache from at this time?"

    "It''s a secret."

    Lin Jiang said with a smile, "I bought an ice-cold spell to use as a freezer. I still have a bunch of magical peaches."

    "It''s really delicious, Brother. You have it sofortable here, with fish, pork, alcohol, and peaches. You''re self-sufficient. No wonder you don''t want to go home."

    "Come by more often in the future, I don''t like crowded ces."

    Lin Jiang said. He was quiet and didn''t like noise, but he really liked his little sister. Whenever she came by, Lin Jiang would ughter an Iron-backed Pig.

    "Okay, I''lle more often. I''m full now, I need to go home. If Dad finds out, he will scold me again."

    "Wait, let me bring something for Mom."

    Lin Jiang packed some fresh Iron-backed Pig meat, caught two Silver Light Fish, and took out dozens of spirit peaches from the cold ice array. After thinking for a moment, he also picked some fresh spirit vegetables, filling a big bag.

    "You are really filial, Mom didn''t raise you in vain. Goodbye."

    Lin Ying smiled and said, then she summoned a flying sword, stepped on it, and flew away in a blink of an eye.

    Lin Jiang watched his sister''s figure with some envy. He also had a flying sword, but his cultivation level was not high enough to fly. It required being at least at the fourth level of Qi-Refining.

    "Oh dear!"

    Lin Jiang was getting ready to leave when he heard Lin Ying scream. She fell off the flying sword and before Lin Jiang could save her, she miraculously flew up again, swaying unsteadily.

    Lin Jiang smirked at this. Lin Ying must have recently broken through to the fourth level and was still not skilled at using the flying sword. It served her right to take a tumble.

    Lin Jiang didn''t eat the leftover Silver Light Fish. He continued grilling the fish and after he was full, he walked unsteadily back to his room to meditate.

    "I need to work harder on my training. Let''s increase the daily practice time from four hours to eight hours."

    "No no no, eight hours is too long. How about six?"

    "Six won''t work either. I still need to take care of the spiritualnd, feed the pigs, and raise the fish. Let''s make it five hours; five hours a day, five days a week, and weekends off. Perfect."

    After a painful struggle, Lin Jiang finally decided to increase the practice time by an hour and leave weekends for rest.

    Lin Jiang had already made up his mind long ago. He would never work hard and strive. If he could lie down, he would lie down.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Three monthster, Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    "Hahahaбн"

    A cheerfulughter came from Lin Jiang''s room. After years of practice, he finally reached the second level of Qi Refining. It was a joyous asion.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang walked out of the room and informed the servants that there would be an additional meal tonight, to celebrate the significant improvement in cultivation of their Sixth Young Master.

    After a night of celebration, the next day Lin Jiang rode his horse back to the entrance of the Lin family, carrying the specialty products from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He showed them to Lin Batian, indicating that he shouldn''t be expelled from the Lin family just like that. After all, Lin Jiang had also reached the second level of Qi Refining.

    "Eldest, tell me, is your Sixth Brother really my biological child? How did I, Lin Batian, end up with such a strange creature?"

    Watching Lin Jiang leave with great excitement, Lin Batian expressed his doubts to his eldest son, Lin Shan. He was beginning to suspect that this "Sixth Brother" wasn''t his biological child, otherwise how could he be like this?

    Thinking of himself, Lin Batian, who was mighty and extraordinary, started cultivating at the age of twelve, broke through to the Foundation Building stage at thirty, and reached Golden Core stage before he was a hundred. More than ten of his offspring also embarked on the path of cultivation. But he still had a useless son like this.

    "Ahem, Dad, Fourth Auntie is not that kind of person."

    Lin Shan was also amused and confused. Among his younger siblings, Sixth Brother always went his own way. But maybe that was a good thing, because no one wouldpete with him. If his younger siblings were all talented, it would be difficult for him, as the eldest brother, to handle. It would be embarrassing if he couldn''t beat his younger siblings.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5

    Five yearster, at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    Several servants were moving bags of spiritual paddy to be weighed. Steward Wu kept a careful record.

    "Congrattions, Sixth Young Master! This year''s harvest is bountiful. It''s already 100,000 catties."

    Seeing that they were almost done, Steward Wu told everyone to stop. There wasn''t much spiritual paddy left in the warehouse, and he would keep the rest for himself.

    "100,000 catties is quite impressive."

    "Thanks to the Sixth Young Master''s excellent management skills, the cultivation of the spiritualnd is nowparable to that of cultivators."

    Steward Wu smiled with narrowed eyes. It was well known that the Sixth Young Master was no good at cultivation, but he had a talent for management. Over the years, Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had flourished. Not only did the production of spiritual paddy increase, but they also had other sources of ie.

    "Just tidying up casually."

    Lin Jiang alsoughed. He spent a lot of effort on Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi in recent years. For example, with the spiritualnd, he set new rules for many tenants. If their production increased, not only would he reward them with some spiritual rice, but he would also promise to guarantee the future of their children. When they turn twelve years old, he would send them to the Lin family to test their Spiritual Roots. If they had Spiritual Roots, they could join the Lin family and cultivate immortality.As a result, the enthusiasm of the tenants greatly increased, and they became more dedicated to the spiritualnd. Lin Jiang also bought spiritual talismans like the Rain Talisman, ensuring good weather and abundant harvest. Now, they could produce tens of thousands of catties of spiritual rice every year.

    "Sixth Young Master, now that the Lin family members are increasing day by day, the consumption has also increased. Do you want to sell some of your Iron-backed Pigs, Colorful Pigs, Silver Light Fish, and Silver Arrow Fish to the n?"

    Steward Wu asked again. In recent years, the breeding industry at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had also grown significantly. Lin Jiang bought higher quality products like the Colorful Pigs and Silver Arrow Fish. The quantity of Iron-backed Pigs and Silver Light Fish had also greatly increased. It was said that Miss Lin Die and Miss Lin Ying often came to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi to eat for free.

    "We can sell the Iron-backed Pigs and Silver Light Fish, but not the Silver Arrow Fish and Colorful Pigs."

    "Why, Sixth Young Master? I see there are quite a few Colorful Pigs."

    "I haven''t gotten tired of eating them yet, and Lin Ying hasn''t either. We''ll talk about it when we do."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, leaving Steward Wu speechless. This reason was unrefutable.

    Right away, Lin Jiang went to catch fifty Silver Light Fish and ughtered twenty Iron-backed Pigs. He handed them all to Steward Wu, who waved his hand and the items went into his bag. Lin Jiang immediately felt envious.

    Lin Jiang had a small storage bag in his hand, which had only one cubic space. Steward Wu''s storage bag must be arge one, or else it wouldn''t be able to hold so many things.

    "Sixth Young Master, this kind of super-sized storage bag is not mine. It belongs to the family. If Sixth Young Master wants one, you can ask the family to buy it in Anhua City. It will probably cost around eight thousand spirit stones. Sixth Young Master should be able to afford it, right?"

    "Haha, no, I can''t."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. In these past few years, the profits from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had all been given to him. He only earned two to three hundred spirit stones a year. His family''s offerings had been restored, which amounted to twenty-four spirit stones a year. After all these years, he had only saved up a little over a thousand spirit stones, still far from enough.

    Steward Wu smiled and didn''t say anything. The second generation of the Lin family didn''tck money. They mostly had their own assets. It was the third and fourth generations that had no family inheritance - they were the ones who were truly poor.

    Not long after Steward Wu left, Lin Die and Lin Ying flew over from afar andnded before Lin Jiang with smiles on their faces.

    "Sixth Brother, I''m here again."

    "Why did youe here? Don''t you need to apany Fourth Sister for her wedding?"

    Lin Jiang asked, "Isn''t Lin Yuan, the fourth child of the Lin family, getting married soon? And Lin Die and Lin Ying are going to be part of the wedding party."

    Lin Jiang didn''t have a very good impression of Lin Batian, but there was one thing he admired about him - his pride. Lin Batian believed that the Lin family''s position in Yun State was earned through strength, not through alliances, so he never forced his children into arranged marriages. He gave them the chance to fall in love freely. In other families, like Lin Jiang''s, children were only meant to serve the family by producing offspring. They couldn''t live as freely as they do now.

    "That''s the adults'' business, we don''t care. Fourth sister is being overly dramatic, it''s too troublesome. It''s better toe to Sixth Brother''s ce and have some fun. And Sixth Brother, what delicious food do you have this time? Let''s settle on it first. We don''t want Silver Light Fish and Iron-backed Pig anymore, we''re tired of eating them."

    "Then let''s have Silver Arrow Fish and Colorful Pig. They''re both high-grade monsters and taste amazing. Today, I''ll make you sour fish with pickled vegetables."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and immediately started preparing to butcher the pig and fish. He even asked the servants for help. Lin Jiang''s servant hadn''t returned yet, but he had already trained the servants on this side to bepetent chefs.

    "Sixth Brother, prepare something nice for Third Sister. Don''t hold back."

    "Just tell me what you want. No need to be polite here at Sixth Brother''s ce."

    "I want milk tea, plum juice, fruit juice, and I want to eat grilled sausages, and alsoбн"

    Lin Ying listed more than twenty things in a row, and Lin Jiang agreed to all of them. He ordered the estate''s servants to make them. These things were all copied from Lin Jiang''s memory, but some had bepletely different because he couldn''t find the exact ingredients.

    But these things still conquered Lin Ying''s stomach, and even Lin Die''s mouth was conquered too. Even the prestigious Foundation Building stage cultivators followed their little sister toe and eat. They thought the fun things here in Lin Jiang''s were much better than the Lin family marketce.

    "Third Sister, eat with big bites, that''s the way to enjoy it!"

    Lin Yingy sprawled on a nket with a cup of milk tea beside her. With a tilt of her head, she could take a sip through a bamboo straw. In her hands, she held a dozen grilled sausages, eating one bite after another. A contrast to Lin Die, who looked more refined, sitting up straight and eating with small bites.

    "It''s okay to rx a little during cultivation, but Ninth Sister should not indulge too much and dy her progress."

    "Hehe, understood, Third Sister. Let''s not talk about that here with Sixth Brother."

    "Sixth Brother, you have corrupted your little sister."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Nonsense, she came on her own. What do you mean I corrupted her? Third Sister, try the jerky I made. It''s made from Silver Light Fish and it tastes delicious."

    "You''ve been cultivating for fifteen years and only reached the second level of Qi Refining. It''s a bit disappointing. You can try using the top-grade Wash Marrow Pill to cleanse your meridians. If possible, buy six pills and use one every ten days. It can greatly enhance your cultivation speed."

    "Sixth Brother, Third Sister is right. Our family didn''t have much money before, so they didn''t arrange the cleansing of our meridians for us. But now, all the nephews in the family with Spiritual Roots receive this treatment. It''s much better than before."

    Lin Ying quickly said, "In recent years, the Lin family has be more prosperous, with increasing ie. They treat their young descendants better and can use the Wash Marrow Pill to improve their constitution."

    "I''ve written it down. I''ll buy it when I have time."

    Lin Jiang nodded, writing it down. He didn''t mind having a higher cultivation. He already had nearly three thousand years of lifespan, longer than the Soul Changing Ancestor. But his cultivation level was too low. This secret must not be discovered. He needed some life-saving methods.

    "No need to wait. Give me the spirit stones. I''m nning to go to Anhua City in a few days. They don''t have top-grade Wash Marrow Pill in the Lin family''s market, only Anhua City has it."

    "That works too. How much does a Wash Marrow Pill cost?"

    "A top-grade Wash Marrow Pill might cost five hundred spirit stones, but trust me, the higher-grade ones are much better than the lower-grade ones. They''re definitely worth it."

    "I don''t have that many spirit stones."

    "How many do you have?"

    "Around fifteen hundred."

    Lin Jiang said. He lived in Spiritual Peach Mountain, where he didn''t have to spend money on food, clothing, shelter, or transportation. However, he needed spirit stones for cultivation, to purchase herbal medicine, and to maintain the mountain''s formations. So he had saved one thousand five hundred spirit stones.

    "Then it''s one thousand five, I''ll cover the rest for now, and you can pay me backter."

    "Oh, that''s really kind of you."

    "I''ve eaten a lot of your food, and besides, we''re siblings, so it''s no big deal."

    Lin Die shook her head, mainly because she had already reached the Foundation Building stage in her cultivation, which had greatly increased her ie. If she were still in the Qi Refining stage, she wouldn''t be able toe up with one thousand five hundred spirit stones.

    "Sixth Brother, Third Sister, count me in with too. I''ll support Sixth Brother with five hundred spirit stones."

    "You don''t have to do that, keep the spirit stones for yourself. It''s important to quickly reach the Foundation Building stage. As our family growsrger, it will be more and more difficult to cultivate."

    Lin Die shook her head. The poption of the Lin family was growing rapidly. More and more of the second generation were getting married, and even the third generation had begun to haverge-scale weddings. Although not every descendant had a Spiritual Root, the poption of the Lin family was steadily increasing, almost like a poption boom. It wouldn''t be long before they had over a hundred people.

    "Lin Ying, listen to Third Sister. Your Foundation Building stage is crucial. I currently have control over the revenue from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. Within five years, I will be able to pay back the spirit stones to Third Sister."

    Lin Jiang said to Lin Ying. They had been raising Colorful Pig and Silver Arrow Fish for more than two years. They were starting to produce and the ie from Spiritual Peach Mountain would increase. Within five years, they would definitely be able to repay the money to Lin Die.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6

    Yun State, Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    After taking the tenth top-grade Wash Marrow Pill, Lin Jiang waited for the medicine to take effect. In his free time, he checked in with the system.

    System Name: Lifespan Check-in System

    Host: Lin Jiang

    Lifespan: 26/2390

    Looking at the remaining lifespan on the system, Lin Jiang was very satisfied. From what he knew, most cultivators in the Qi Refining Stage in the cultivation world could live for more than a hundred years. The Foundation Building Stage doubled their lifespan, reaching around two hundred years. Golden Core cultivators could live for five hundred years, and only Nascent Soul Ancestors could live for over a thousand years. Anyone over two thousand years old would be a powerful Soul Formation Ancestor, and Yun State didn''t have such a powerful existence.

    In other words, if Lin Jiang stayed safe without any idents, he could live longer than a Soul Formation Ancestor.

    "Immortality seems possible."

    Lin Jiang sighed and thought, "With daily check-ins, how can I possibly use up my lifespan? The Lin family is unbeatable in terms of prolonging life, and not a single person in Yun State can match me.""Oh no, here we go again."

    In just a moment, the powerful effects of the top-grade Wash Marrow Pill kicked in. Lin Jiang''s stomach started hurting badly, and he rushed to the restroom. It took him a whole half hour before he returned, covering his nose.

    It''s so stinky.

    The top-grade Wash Marrow Pill helped cleanse the body, eliminating impurities through the intestines. That was why it smelled so bad. Lin Jiang almost got overwhelmed by his own poop.

    "It''s time for my morning training session. I''m really dedicated. I have to meditate for two hours."

    Lin Jiang nced at the time and realized it was time for his scheduled training. He exercised for two hours in the morning, two hours in the afternoon, and one hour in the evening. It was a total of five hours a day, which was quite tiring.

    "Not bad. Lin Die didn''t deceive me. These three thousand spirit stones were well-spent."

    After two hours, Lin Jiang opened his eyes from meditation, having finished all six top-grade Wash Marrow Pills. They greatly helped him. Previously, two hours of meditation could only allow him to circte his energy through one meridian. Now, he could do it through three, a 300% improvement in efficiency.

    ording to Lin Jiang''s estimation, without using the top-grade Wash Marrow Pills, it would take him at least thirty years to reach the third level of Qi Refining. Now, he estimated it will take about ten years.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    It was time for the Lin family''s annual family gathering. Their ancestral home was not big enough anymore. Compared to when Lin Jiang first attended nine years ago, the number of Lin family members had multiplied several times.

    Lin Batian had worked hard throughout the years. He went from having nine sons and six daughters to now having fifteen sons and nine daughters. He even had two concubines who were pregnant, so there might be more brothers and sisters next year.

    The second and third generation of the Lin family also had many marriages, further contributing to the growth of the family. As a result, the Lin family''s end-of-year gathering had expanded to more than ten tables.

    "Fifth brother, where did the Twelfth and Fourteenth go?"

    Lin Jiang asked Lin Hai, who was by his side, why he couldn''t see the twelfth and fourteenth brothers. They were therest year, they couldn''t have died, right?

    If they had died, why hadn''t they invite him for the funeral?

    "You only go home once a year, no wonder you don''t know. Dad came up with a new rule this year. If you''re twelve and haven''t tested for Spiritual Root, you get kicked out of the family and be an ordinary member. Everyone behind you moves up. So now, Thirteenth Brother became Twelfth Brother."

    Lin Hai nced at Lin Jiang and couldn''t help but feel a little envious. Lin Jiang had the freedom to guard a manor all by himself and live carefree.

    "Oh, I see."

    Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang sighed. The cultivation world truly was cruel. Without Spiritual Root, they didn''t even have the qualifications to attend family gatherings. The future would surely be difficult.

    "If I ever get married, I must marry a cultivator, not an ordinary person."

    Lin Hai exined earnestly, "When cultivators marry each other, the probability of their children having Spiritual Root is very high. Just like our father, Lin Batian, all his concubines are cultivators. Now, out of their twenty-plus children, seventeen have tested positive for Spiritual Root. The probability is quite high."

    In the second and third generations, some people married ordinary women and had several children who didn''t possess Spiritual Root. Now, the Lin family had established a new rule. They didn''t even have the qualifications to live at the mountain gate and had to be sent to some manors. They might have no worries about food and drink, but they had no social status.

    "What Fifth Brother said is correct."

    Lin Jiang casually agreed. It was impossible for him to get married. Women would only affect his cultivation speed. Besides, wasn''t it sweeter to spend a little money and have a one-hour date? As long as your wallet and waist could handle it, you could have a different love affair every day, super sweet.

    "Ahem, Sixth Brother, listen to Father''s words."

    After a while, Lin Hai coughed to remind Lin Jiang to be careful, not just bury his head in eating and anger the old master, and get punished again.

    Lin Jiang nodded and stopped eating. As a Level 2 Qi Refining cultivator, he couldn''t eat much. It wasn''t that he couldn''t handle it, but all the food today had spiritual energy. If he ate too much, he could easily explode and die. If he died from eating, he wouldn''t live up to the system.

    "Eldest Brother, Second Brother, you need to work hard this year. This is probably yourst chance. Learn more from Third Brother..."

    Lin Batian said to Eldest Brother Lin Shan and Second Brother Lin He with some sorrow. Eldest Brother Lin Shan was already fifty-seven, and Second Brother Lin He was fifty-five as well.

    They reached the peak of Level 10 Qi Refining a few years ago, and still were. They had also taken a Foundation Building Pill once in these years, but they failed to break through. If they didn''t make a breakthrough this year, they might not have a chance to achieve Foundation Building Stage.

    "Fifth Brother, why did Father say that this year is thest chance for Eldest Brother and Second Brother?"

    "Don''t you usually read books?"

    "No, I don''t read. Why bother with that stuff?"

    "You- forget it, let me exin to you. There''s a saying that the breakthrough from Qi Refining Stage to the Foundation Building Stage has a limit of sixty years. It means that if you don''t break through before sixty, it''s basically hopeless to achieve the Foundation Building in this lifetime. Because after sixty, even if you use a lot of elixirs, your vitality will decline, and the effect of the Foundation Building Pill will be greatly reduced."

    "Isn''t the eldest brother only fifty-seven? There are still three years!"

    "What do you know? One Foundation Building Pill is worth nearly twenty thousand spirit stones. It can''t be taken casually. Our eldest brother and the second brother have already used it once, so technically they are not eligible to use it again. But our father is giving them a chance because of their hard work in managing the family for many years, even if they don''t have extraordinary achievements."

    "And it''s very harmful to the body if the breakthrough fails after taking the Foundation Building Pill. It often takes three to five years to recuperate. If you forcefully take it twice in a row, it''s a matter of life and death, you know?"

    "I understand, I understand. Thank you, Fifth Brother, for your guidance."

    Lin Jiang replied repeatedly. If that was the case, then the eldest brother and the second brother didn''t have much time left. But Lin Jiang didn''t think this would apply to him. He could live for over two thousand years now, so it would take at least another one or two thousand years for his vitality to decline. So he wasn''t worried.

    "Our family''s Library Pavilion has many books on cultivating immortality. Take some time to read them. It will be beneficial for you."

    "Yes, Fifth Brother. After I finish eating, I will go and borrow them."

    Lin Jiang nodded. It seemed that he really needed to read those books. It was embarrassing to have practiced cultivation for over a decade and still be a beginner.

    Lin Batian taught the oldest and the second-born, but didn''t say much more and didn''t scold Lin Jiang. After all, there were too many children to handle, so he had no choice but to be an invisible person.

    After the dinner ended, the Lin family members dispersed in groups. The Lin family''s territory was not small, and the grown-up children were sent to various ces to guard and work. They didn''t often see each other, so the end-of-year family gathering was a good time for everyone toe together.

    Lin Ying happily ran up to Lin Jiang. She didn''t have a good rtionship with her other siblings. The age difference between the oldest and the second-born was too big, and she thought her younger siblings were too childish. So, besides her own brother Lin Jiang, she got along well with Lin Die.

    "Third Sister, this is this year''s spirit stone, 300 pieces."

    Lin Jiang brought Lin Ying to find Lin Die and handed over most of this year''s ie to her. This was to repay a debt.

    "I don''t need the spirit stone. You use it first and work harder in your cultivation."

    Lin Die shook her head. She was the first in the second generation of the Lin family to reach the Foundation Building stage. Lin Batian favored her and fully supported her. Plus, her mother had considerable personal wealth, so she didn''tck spirit stones.

    "Even so, I have to pay it. If I owe something, I have to repay it. That''s the rule."

    "Sixth Brother, it seems like you didn''t listen to Dad just now. You''re already twenty-seven after the Lunar New Year. How many years are left until the sixty-year limit? You''re only at the second level of Qi Refining. Use this spirit stone to buy Qi Gathering Pills."

    Lin Die felt a bit depressed. Among her siblings, her rtionship with others was ordinary, but she often went to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi with Lin Ying, so her rtionship with Lin Jiang was good. She truly hoped that Lin Jiang could break through to the Foundation Building Stage.

    "Brother, I think Third Sister is right."

    "Nonsense! Being sixty years old and not breaking through to the Foundation Building Stage is not the end of the world. Besides, spirit stones can be earned again. In a few years, my ie from the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi will still grow."

    Lin Jiang shook his head and directly ced the spirit stone in Lin Die''s hand. He wasn''t in the habit of owing others. Being debt-free makes one sleep well at night and enjoy meals.

    After giving Lin Die the spirit stone, Lin Jiang grabbed Lin Ying and ran, not giving her a chance to regret. It was time to pay respects to dear mother. Dear mother had been good to him, and Lin Jiang never forgot his gratitude. He always fulfilled his filial duties.

    As for this novel itself, it started with an ordinary xianxia background but as times went by, the world changed and science developed. Mortals became stronger and stronger, and cultivators had to find their position in the world. No harem, no idiots in the story. It took me a month to finish reading this story and it can be ranked as one of the top ten xianxia novels I have read. Continue reading and I believe you will enjoy it!

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    <figure ss="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://amzn.to/3Ua4vea"><img /wp-content/uploads/2024/01/cbi_01.jpg" alt="" ss="wp-image-7425" /></a></figure>

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

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 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7

    Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi

    "Boom"

    At the loud noise, theborers working in the fields anxiously looked up and scanned their surroundings, while the estate guards hurried toward the manor.

    Lin Jiang was awakened by the loud noise, and he got up with an angry shout.

    "Lin Baohua, what the heck are you doing?"

    After shouting, he immediately jumped out of bed and rushed towards a nearby building. When Lin Jiang arrived, there were already guards there, dragging a boy out of a smoking house.

    At first, the boy was scared silly, but then he struggled and tried to rush towards the smoking house, shouting, "My Pill Furnace, my elixirs, don''t stop me!"

    Seeing this, Lin Jiang approached and pped him, knocking him down to the ground, and asked, "What are you doing? Do you want to blow up my Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi?"

    "Sixth Uncle, my Pill Furnace, wu wu, my elixirs."The boy burst into tears immediately, extremely sad, making Lin Jiang shake his head.

    This was a pitiful child named Lin Baohua, son of Eldest Brother Lin Shan, fifteen years old. Three years ago, it was discovered that he didn''t possess any Spiritual Roots--destined to be an ordinary person.

    However, Lin Baohua was unwilling to ept his fate. He somehow found out about a miraculous pill called the Wisdom Arousing Pill, which could help ordinary people without Spiritual Roots awaken their Spiritual Roots. He had been tirelessly practicing alchemy.

    Inside the mountain gate, as if he was under a spell -even though he didn''t have any special abilities- he asked everyone for advice on alchemy. That was why Lin Shan sent him to Lin Jiang. Lin Shan had only one condition - don''t let Lin Baohua starve to death.

    Lin Jiang also thought that no one would starve under his care, so he didn''t think too much and let Lin Baohua stay. Who could have imagined that he could cause all this trouble?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Young master, what should we do?"

    "Take him outside to clear his head, check if there''s a fire, and put it out if there is."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, and a few guards took Lin Baohua out to calm down. Other guards checked the room, but there was no fire, just an exploded Pill Furnace.

    An hourter, the guards brought Lin Baohua back. He wasn''t as agitated now. He bowed deeply to Lin Jiang and said, "Sixth Uncle, I''ve been rude earlier. Please forgive me."

    "It''s alright. Just don''t cause any more trouble in the future. I know about the Wisdom Arousing Pill. It''s a sixth-grade pill. Do you know what sixth-grade means? In theory, only a Soul Changing Ancestor can refine it. But our father is only at the Golden Core Period. There''s not a single Soul Changing Ancestor in the whole Yun State."

    Lin Jiang spoke, "The sixth-grade Wisdom Arousing Pill is a legendary thing. It doesn''t even exist in the Yun State. It''s simply a foolish fantasy for an ordinary person to try and create a Wisdom Arousing Pill."

    "Sixth Uncleбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Baohua had a sad face and looked like he was going to cry. Lin Jiang suddenly felt a headache. No wonder he couldn''t stay at the gate anymore. This temperament was not good.

    "Even if you call me Sixth Uncle, I am just a low-level cultivator at the Qi Refining Stage 2."

    Lin Jiang directly covered his mouth. If he could live for tens of thousands of years, when Lin Jiang reached the Soul Formation Stage, he can help him refine a Wisdom Arousing Pill. But for now, Lin Jiang was powerless.

    Lin Jiang signaled the guard, who understood and took Lin Baohua away, so as not to be in the way.

    A monthter, Lin Ying brought Lin Die to mooch food and drinks again. Lin Baohua appeared once more and this time he chose to pester Lin Die. At first, he wanted to discuss alchemy with her, but when he found out that Lin Die didn''t know how to do alchemy, he wanted to ask her which alchemist was powerful and wanted to be their apprentice.

    This annoyed Lin Die as well, and in the end, Lin Jiang had the guard forcibly remove him; out of sight and out of mind.

    "Poor Baohua, his mother is just a mortal. She dreams of giving birth to a child with a Spiritual Root. But s..."

    "Spiritual Root is innate and cannot be changed. Our aunties are cultivators, and yet some of them have siblings without Spiritual Root, right?"

    "Yes, that''s why he is pitiful. He was born into a family of cultivators, so he has these desires."

    Lin Ying and Lin Die watched as Lin Baohua walked away, continuously talking to each other. Now there were more and more members of the Lin family, more and more cultivators, and more and more ordinary people. Even though they all shared the same sky, it felt like they were living in two different worlds.

    Lin Jiang didn''t care about this. He himself was just a small shrimp at the second stage of Qi Refining, unable to change anything. Besides, he saw many ordinary people in this world. Who said that ordinary people must be unhappy? It was better to ept reality and live a happy life.

    In this respect, Lin Baohua was also lucky. With the support of the Lin family, he would never have to worry about food and drink for the rest of his life. The starting point for him was already the end point for most ordinary people.

    "I heard that the father has given names to the younger generations, right?"

    Lin Jiang changed the subject, no longer talking about Lin Baohua, so as not to ruin the atmosphere. He wanted to say something cheerful.

    "Yeah, it''s been decided. Starting from Bao Hua''s generation, the given names for the next fifteen generations will be Bao, Chang, Chao, Cheng, Cun, Ding, Dong, Fu, Gong, Guan, Guang, Guo, Han, Hong, Hua."

    "What about the people before that? Isn''t the eldest brother already having several children?"

    "They will change their names. Lin Ke Wen is now called Lin Bao Wen."

    "That works too. Fifteen generations willst a long time."

    "It canst a long time, because Dad gave an order to split the family tree into two books, one for immortals and one for ordinary people. People without Spiritual Root can only be recorded in the book for ordinary people, and they can''t use their own names. Lin Baohua is over by the mountain gate, not only being removed from the family tree, but also being called Lin Hua instead of Lin Baohua."

    "Is it really so cruel? Dad doesn''t show any father-son affection at all?"

    Lin Jiang sighed, this was really too cruel. Lin Batian also had several sons without Spiritual Root. Did that mean there was no love without Spiritual Root?

    Now he finally understood Lin Baohua''s obsession. If he, Lin Jiang, had grown up in this environment, he would have been obsessed too.

    "It is cruel, but Dad has no choice. Now we Lin family members have already exceeded a hundred people. We need to concentrate our resources and prioritize taking care of the family members with better aptitude. Only by doing this can we protect the family. All the families in Yun State do the same."

    "Sixth Brother, you''ve been living peacefully at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi all these years. Do you know how it happened? It''s all thanks to the protection of our family. Otherwise, the thieves from outside would havepletely raided Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi."

    "So you should work harder on your cultivation. Our Lin family has been in Yun State for only fifty to sixty years. Dad has established such a vast territory and offended many people. Without advanced cultivation, how can you protect your spouse and children..."

    "Cough, understood, Third Sister."

    Lin Jiang helplessly sighed. Here went Third Sister again. She was great in every other way, but a tad bit too talkative, just like an olddy, always seizing the opportunity to educate him.

    "Don''t think Third Sister is annoying, it''s the truth. Our family is now relying solely on Dad. I''m the only one in the Lin family who is building the foundation. After building the foundation, I understood the difficulties Dad faces."

    Lin Die looked serious. After establishing her foundation, Lin Batian loved her very much and allowed her to have some power in the family. She realized how many external threats the Lin family had. Lin Batian had been conquering and expanding the family''s territory for years while also angering many cultivators. There were countless people who wanted the Lin family to be destroyed.

    "I understand. I can''t rely on it anymore, Lin Ying. You need to work harder."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Even if he worked all day, it was useless. He had the weakest Five Spiritual Roots, which meant his cultivation speed would be slow. It would be better to rely on Lin Ying instead.

    "Third Sister, I will work hard. In at most two, no, three years, I will be able to build the foundation."

    Lin Ying raised her little fist and said firmly. After spending a long time with Lin Die, she had also been influenced by her. She deeply felt the heavy responsibility of her family. In the future, she would bear the burden of protecting her family.

    Lin Die shook her head in disappointment at Lin Jiang, her Sixth Brother. He truly was slow to understand, unresponsive no matter what she said, just like a dried fish. But when she carefully thought about Sixth Brother''s inner potential, she let out a silent sigh.

    Nevermind, nevermind, forget about it. Thinking too much will make you age faster.

    Lin Jiang noticed Lin Die''s change in expression and understood her current emotions. But he didn''t exin too much. He remembered the kindness and protection of the Lin family. He believed that no matter how long it took, whether it was thousands or tens of thousands of years, he would definitely be able to build the foundation and form a Nascent Soul. When he became strong, he would naturally be able to protect them.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8

    Time flew by, in the blink of an eye, ten years had passed.

    In these ten years, the Lin family had experienced many stories. Lin Batian''s thirty-fifth child had been born. After Lin Die, two other members of the Lin family, Lin He (the second oldest) and Lin Ying (the tenth oldest), had advanced to the Foundation Building Stage. However, the eldest brother, Lin Shan, has failed in his efforts and was still stuck at the tenth level of Qi Refining.

    In these ten years, Lin Batian had stopped expanding the Lin family''s territory and focused on stabilizing the existingnd. As a result, the Lin family had prospered even more. The number of Lin family cultivators had exceeded fifty, and they had be a rising star family in the southwest of Yun State.

    Finally, Lin Jiang had reached the third level of Qi Refining at the age of 36. This was not remarkable in the Lin family, nor was it remarkable anywhere else. It was considered a poor achievement.

    But Lin Jiang was very happy. The progress in his cultivation had brought him enhanced power, giving him a pleasurable feeling.

    There had also been significant changes at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. The number of tenants had increased from over a hundred to almost two hundred households. With more manpower, Lin Jiang could better manage the vi. He had also raised more Silver Light Fish, Silver Arrow Fish, Colorful Pigs, and Iron-backed Pigs. The annual ie of the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had now exceeded five hundred spirit stones.

    Lin Baohua, who lived at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, seemed to have epted his fate and no longer obsessed over refining the Wisdom Arousing Pill to awaken his Spiritual Root. Instead, he had gotten married and had children at the vi. He helped Lin Jiang manage the estate and ced his hopes for cultivation in the next generation.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Feels so good!"In the sky, Lin Jiang grabbed Lin Ying''s shoulder and shouted loudly as they flew on their sword, it seemed like a wonderful thing.

    But this made Lin Ying roll her eyes in annoyance. She could fly on her own sword with her four levels of Qi Refining, but her brother only had three levels. Now she had to carry him, how embarrassing.

    Lin Die on the side shook her head in disbelief and decided not to look at her embarrassing little brother. She just focused on the journey ahead.

    Yun State''s Anhua City was about thousands of miles away from Lin family''s territory. It took about two days for a cultivator at the Foundation Building Stage to travel there. Currently, Lin Die and Lin Ying were taking Lin Jiang to Anhua City.

    These years, Lin Jiang had been staying in one ce, and Lin Ying and Lin Die have became tired of the many delicious foods. They had gradually reduced their visits to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. Lin Jiang also wanted to go out and explore, so he begged Lin Ying to take him along. Otherwise, with Lin Jiang''s cultivation, it would take him at least half a month to get there, and there may be many dangers along the way. It was akin to sending a little shrimp at the level 3 of Qi Refining out to the bandits.

    After enduring two days of sleeping outdoors, the three finally arrived at the famous Anhua City. Lin Jiang looked at the city, which resembled a giant dragon lying on the ground, and he felt amazed. Such a huge city is rare, even in modern society.

    "It''s amazing, isn''t it? I was also amazed when I first came here. There are as many cultivators here as there are grains of rice."

    "Qi Refining is everywhere, while Building Foundation is asmon as dogs."

    "Phew, phew, phew, you''re the dog, should be walking everywhere with a Building Foundation, not worth a pennypared to a dog in Qi Refining."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Ying was so angry that she wanted to throw Lin Jiang down; how dare he spoke like that, calling her sister worse than a dog?

    Lin Jiang smirked without retorting, because it was true. In Anhua City, the Foundation Building Stage was not valuable, there were more people than dogs, and there were more people in the Qi Refining Stage than in the Foundation Building Stage. Wasn''t that just the same as being worse than a dog in the Foundation Building Stage?

    Flying was not allowed in Anhua City. The three of themnded outside the city and each paid a spirit stone as an entrance fee. They walked into Anhua City.

    Lin Die had been to Anhua City many times before, so she led the two of them to the Lin family''s business in Anhua City, which was a small shop.

    "Third sister, sixth brother, tenth brother."

    Second brother Lin He saw the three of them and immediately showed a smile. It was rare to see someone from the Lin family in Anhua City, so he was very happy, as it was like meeting an acquaintance from his hometown.

    "second elder brother"

    "Hello, second elder brother."

    Three people greeted each other. Lin He had been in Anhua City for many years. The Lin family''s business in Anhua City was an important base. They sold resources produced by the Lin family and bought things that the Lin family needed, ying an irreceable role.

    Lin He asked the three people what they were here for. Lin Die and Lin Ying were here to buy medicine. The medicine for those in the Qi Refining Stage was called Qi Gathering Pill, which could be bought in the Lin family''s market. However, the medicine for those in the Foundation Building Stage called True Spirit Pill was hard to find in the market, and the quality was poor. It had too many impurities, which was not good for cultivators. So, Lin Die woulde to Anhua City to buy medicine from time to time.

    As for Lin Jiang, he came to broaden his horizons. This was the first time the inexperienced Lin Jiang had left the Lin family''s territory.

    Lin He enthusiastically introduced Lin Jiang to the many shops in Anhua City. There were many resources needed by cultivators, and each shop had its own specialty. People who didn''t know would have no idea how to shop.

    The front and back of the Lin family''s shop was spacious. The trio decided to stay there and save money on an inn. After settling in, they made a n to go shopping together.

    Anhua City was packed with people. The streets were bustling with crowds, and the shops lined up one after another. There were medicine stores, spiritual herb stores, spiritual talisman stores, clothing stores, restaurants, and inns, offering everything you could imagine.

    "This is the grand marketce where you can eat, drink, and have fun. But little brother, don''t buy cultivation items from the stalls or hope for a bargain. The cultivators here are all experienced and have a keen eye. They won''t give you a chance for a bargain. Anything that seems like a deal is definitely a scam."

    Lin Die pointed at the roadside stalls, where many cultivators spread out a piece of cloth to set up their stalls. They sold all kinds of medicine, spiritual talismans, spiritual herbs, and even broken magic weapons or iplete treasure maps.

    But most of these items are junk, trash, or scams. Skilled alchemists wouldn''t set up stalls here. They were treated as honored guests in various shops. Precious spiritual herbs wouldn''t be left for ordinary cultivators to find. As for treasure maps and the like, if you really went searching for them, you might end up being robbed by ruthless bandits.

    "Third Sister, I''m not a beginner, why would I believe this?"

    Lin Jiang was immediately convinced by Lin Die''s words and put away his main character halo, even though it seemed like he didn''t have one.

    Lin Die, as the oldest of the three, introduced Lin Jiang and Lin Ying to many aspects of Anhua City, including various unbelievable scams. She advised them to stay true to themselves and not be greedy, so they could avoid more than ny percent of the scams.

    There were too many vendors at the big market, selling all kinds of things, including various snacks. Lin Jiang was never stingy when it came to food. After walking down the street, the three of them had dozens of different kinds of snacks in their hands, and Lin Ying''s mouth never stopped.

    "My brother is always the best to me."

    Lin Ying said happily. Even though she had already reached the Foundation Building Stage, she would always be the little sister in Lin Jiang''s eyes.

    Lin Die felt a bit sad about this. Her own older brother was Lin Shan, but they were over twenty years apart. They didn''t have the typical sibling bond and their rtionship was simr to that of ordinary siblings. She admired Lin Ying for that because whenever it was, Lin Jiang would always dote on her.

    The next morning, Lin Die took the two of them to familiar shops to buy things. Lin Die told them that when she came to Anhua City, she mostly relied on familiar shops, not for cheaper prices but for reliability. If they went to unfamiliar shops rashly, they could easily be deceived, and some shops even had thieves hidden behind them. Once they left the city, they would be easily ambushed and killed.

    "Greetings to Senior Lin."

    They entered a shop called Duobao Pavilion. The shop assistant saw Lin Die and immediately smiled. He led the three people to a private room and treated them like important guests.

    The shop assistant served tea and soon a steward came over. The steward exchanged pleasantries with Lin Die and then asked her what she needed this time. Lin Die listed the things she needed.

    Lin Die needed True Spirit Pills for her training, a few second-level spiritual talismans, and some healing and energy-replenishing pills. She spent over four thousand spirit stones like this.

    "Tenth Sister, if you need anything, you can buy it here. I''m familiar with Duobao Pavilion, and I have a Duobao Token, which gives me a certain discount."

    Lin Die told Lin Ying that Duobao Pavilion was one of the top businesses in Anhua City and had a great reputation in Yun State. It was safer to buy things here.

    Lin Ying nodded and also listed the things she needed, mostly True Spirit Pills. She also bought a flying sword and spent a few thousand spirit stones.

    "What about you, Sixth Brother?"

    "Of course I''m also going to buy something."

    "What do you need?"

    "A soft armor, a flying sword that focuses on speed, a set of silver needles used for techniques."

    "Why did you buy these? It would be better to concentrate our resources and buy some Qi Gathering Pills. The Qi Gathering Pills from Duobao Pavilion are very famous, with a better quality than those in the Lin family market by about 30-40%."

    Lin Die was dumbfounded, wondering why Sixth Brother had such a strange request. Why not buy some elixirs to improve their cultivation?

    "Buying these is for self-preservation. We should also buy some elixirs. Just buy some at random."

    Lin Jiang said firmly, "Of course we are thinking about self-preservation. I researched all night yesterday and finally decided on these three life-saving items."

    The soft armor could be worn for strong defense. It was for protection. The flying sword that focused on speed was for escaping. The silver needles were used for sneaky attacks. In summary, they were all for survival in dangerous situations.

    "Self-preservation? You stay in the mountain vi all year round. What do you need to preserve?"

    Lin Die was dumbfounded. With your nature as a shut-in, do you really need to think about preserving yourself?

    "Who knows? Maybe I''ll get excited one day and go out to have some fun. There are so many people killing and stealing treasures out there. We must have some means of self-preservation, Third Sister. It''s decided."

    Lin Jiang said in a careless manner, "What does it mean to stay in the vi? I am like a hidden dragon in the abyss, in hiding. Besides, is it safe at home? What if there are robbers who are reckless?"

    "Shopkeeper, could you please bring out the corresponding treasures to have a look at?"

    "Sure."

    The steward of Duobao Pavilion also smiled silently. This little taoist friend valued his life a lot. He already knew the importance of self-preservation at the third level of Qi Refining.

    Soon, the shop assistant brought out the corresponding treasures. There was a soft armor made of silk from silkworms, a medium-grade magical weapon, capable of withstanding three full-force attacks from a cultivator at the sixth level of Qi Refining. There was also a silver flying sword, slender in its de, which could increase speed by thirty percentpared to others with the same cultivation level. Lastly, there was also a set of silver needle magical weapons, as thin as cow hair, with the ability to shield one''s divine consciousness. They were best suited for stealthy sneak attacks.

    "The discount price for the soft armor is 4,500 spirit stones, 2,000 spirit stones for the flying sword, and 1,500 spirit stones for the silver needle magical weapons. With Taoist Friend Lin Die''s Duobao Token, the total amount is 4,500 spirit stones."

    "Here are 5,000 spirit stones. Keep the remaining 500 spirit stones and exchange them for Qi Gathering Pills for me."

    Lin Jiang took out 5,000 spirit stones, which were his savings for many years. Besides the monthly sry from his family, only a few spirit stones were left. Plus, the money his mother saved and gave him each year, it all ended up here.

    "Lin Ying, don''t you want to persuade your brother?"

    "I don''t need to persuade, I think my older brother is doing the right thing. As long as he can save his life, he doesn''t need to fight or kill others, and I don''t want toe either."

    Lin Ying shook her head. She knew her brother''s talent. Eating more Qi Gathering Pills wouldn''t be of much use. It would be better to spend money to arm himself and prioritize his own life when faced with danger.

    Lin Die was speechless when she heard this. If the siblings didn''t take spirit stones seriously, why should she be concerned about them?

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9

    Lin Jiang finally had a chance to visit Anhua City and didn''t want to go back so soon. He encouraged Lin Ying to beg Lin Die to y for one more day. Lin Ying understood and used her charm to make Lin Die agree.

    Lin Die had something to discuss with Lin He, so she let them have fun on their own. She reminded them not to cause trouble and they happily ran off.

    Lin Jiang wandered around Anhua City and asked about the prices. He found out that the prices in Anhua City were much higher than in Lin family''s area. He made up his mind to sell the products from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi in Anhua City to earn more spirit stones.

    Spirit stones were very important for cultivators. No one would say they have too many spirit stones. Lin Jiang felt poorpared to Lin Die, who made more profit in a year than he did after several years of frugality.

    Lin Jiang brought his own brewed Peach Blossom Wine and some dried meat roasted with Colorful PigIron back. He went to the big market to sell them and quickly sold out. He made more than ten spirit stones back, which boosted Lin Jiang''s confidence. He believed that a big city like Anhua City offered many opportunities, and he muste here to make money in the future. He thought there was nothing promising in the countryside.

    After another day passed, the three of them hurried back to the Lin family. Lin Jiang once again felt Lin Ying''s contempt, and angrily thought to himself, "When I reach the Fourth Layer of Qi Refining, I will definitely fly with joy. You won''t even have a chance to fly with me."

    After two days of travel, the three of them returned to the entrance of the Lin family. Just as they arrived, they saw a crowd gathered around a Lin family Foundation Building Stage practitioner dissecting a giant bird. It was truly a giant bird, with wings spread out over ten meters long. Lin Jiang had never seen such a big bird before.

    "Third Miss, Sixth Young Master, Tenth Miss, you''ve arrived just in time. Come and learn how to dissect a mythical beast."

    The practitioner saw the three of them and said, "Mythical beasts are precious creatures, but they require a certain level of skill to handle. If you don''t learn properly and handle them recklessly, their value will greatly decrease.""Yes, Master Zhang."

    The three of them obediently stood by, learning. Lin Jiang was no exception. Although he was lying down, he wouldn''t miss the opportunity to learn.

    "This beast is called an Aurora falcon, a flying mythical creature. The Aurora falcon is known for its speed, one of the fastest among flying creatures. There are few that can surpass it in speed, hence its name ''Aurora'' which means speed like light."

    "Therefore, the most valuable thing about the Aurora falcon is its wings, which can be refined into a flying tool. Of course, if the mythical beast reaches the Third Level, then its demonic core would be the most valuable."

    "The fur, bones, and blood of mythical beasts all have value. To determine the highest value, one must differentiate between different mythical beasts. In the case of the Aurora falcon, its wings are the most valuable, so it is important to focus on collecting its wings..."

    Master Zhang was teaching a group of young students from the Lin family. His instructions were very detailed. After he finished speaking, he took out a sharp knife and removed the wings.

    Next, he showed them the beak, ws, and even the eyes of the bird. He exined that in order to preserve the eyes, they needed to use a special liquid. He even shared the recipe for the liquid. The liquid from the eyes could enhance the vision of those who practiced immortality.

    Then, he talked about the feathers. Even without refining them, they had many uses. They could be used to make arrows or even clothing.

    The remaining flesh and blood had a lower value. The meat was slightly sour and didn''t taste good. Many cultivators looked down on it and used it to feed pigs or other animals.

    After more than four hours of ss, everyone felt that they had gained a lot of knowledge. They thanked Master Zhang with a bow.

    "Before you all leave, I still have two Aurora Falcon eggs here. ording to my investigation, these eggs have already been incubated for a long time and are no longer edible. However, if you want, you can take them back and try to hatch them. The chances of sess are quite high."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "The Aurora Falcon is extremely fast and has a fierce temperament. It will be a great help to you in both travel and battles. Do any of you need it?"

    When everyone was about to leave, Master Zhang took out two eggs. He described them as veryrge, simr to ostrich eggs, and green in color.

    Upon hearing this, everyone shook their heads. They were not naive and knew that Master Zhang was only highlighting the positives. He hadn''t mentioned the drawbacks of raising mythical beasts yet.

    "Me..."

    "Brother, please don''t."

    "Why?"

    "As cultivators, we rarely domesticate demonic beasts, except for specific beast-controlling families or sects. Demonic beasts level up very slowly and consume a lot of resources, which is not cost-effective."

    "Is that so?"

    "Really, our Lin family captures quite a number of demonic beasts every year. Have you ever seen us raising demonic beasts?"

    "Aren''t there those Colorful Pigs?"

    "That''s different, Colorful Pigs grow quickly and can be eaten. But this Aurora Falcon''s meat is not edible. Raising it only yields a few bird beaks and feathers, which is really not worth it. It costs a lot to raise."

    "It''s fine, I''ll keep it as a pet. You know, I''m bored being alone in the vi."

    Lin Jiang smiled. The monster grew slowly, but it was okay. He lived a long time and consumed a lot. It was just a joke. How much could a bird eat? It was fine to let it roam freely in the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi surrounded by woods and wild animals. If you had the ability, catch one yourself. If not, you''d go hungry.

    What Lin Jiang valued even more was the Aurora Falcon''s flying speed. If it grew up, whether it was fighting or running away, wouldn''t it be amazing?

    "Master Zhang, I want this bird egg."

    "Young master, sure, it will cost you one hundred spirit stones."

    "What?"

    "Spirit stones, Sixth Young Master, don''t you think good things just fall from the sky? You definitely have to buy them with spirit stones."

    Master Zhang chuckled and said, "Young man, you can''t always expect to get things for free."

    "Ten pieces (of spirit stone)."

    "What? What did Sixth Young Master say?"

    "I''ll buy it with only ten spirit stones."

    "Sixth Young Master, bargaining doesn''t work like this. I''m offering a hundred, can''t you at least lower it to eighty?"

    "Ten stones. If you won''t sell, I''ll leave. You can keep it for yourself."

    "Alright, alright. You win. It''s just ten stones."

    Master Zhang quickly grabbed Lin Jiang. This bird egg had been incubated by the Aurora Falcon for a long time. The birds inside had already formed, so they couldn''t be eaten. That was why Master Zhang was selling it.

    As for raising it himself, he hadn''t thought about it. He had heard what Lin Ying said a while ago and agreed. Raising a mythical creature like the Aurora Falcon was simply not cost-effective.

    Lin Jiang spent ten spirit stones to buy the bird egg. He also asked Master Zhang about the incubation process, but Master Zhang couldn''t exin it clearly. He told Lin Jiang to go to the Lin Family Library Pavilion by himself. There should be some basic information about animal taming there.

    After that, Lin Jiang and Lin Ying went to visit the kind-hearted olddy first. They brought gifts they bought from Anhua City. Lin Jiang couldn''t see Mr. Lin Batian as he wasn''t at home, so Lin Jiang left the gifts for him and went to the Library Pavilion to find the jade scroll about animal taming. He made a copy before taking it with him.

    On their way back to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Lin Jiang studied the jade scroll about animal taming. It contained information about over a hundred species of mythical creatures, including birds.

    Hatching bird eggs was quite simple. It was akin to when humans give birth, but the eggs would need some spiritual energy from time to time. Without spiritual energy, eggs from flying mythical creatures could not hatch.

    When Lin Jiang arrived at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, he had the servants make a nest for him. He put the bird eggs inside and wrapped them in cloth, keeping them close to him.

    After Lin Jiang had been gone for a few days, Lin Baohua came to greet him when he returned. They talked about the things happening in Anhua City. Lin Jiang didn''t provoke Lin Baohua and casually shared some information. In the end, Lin Baohua left feeling a bit disappointed. Although he had let go of his grudges, it still had some impact on him.

    Lin Jiang spent about a month and a half incubating the eggs. Two little Aurora Falcons hatched from their shells. They were fluffy and looked quite cute, simr to baby chicks.

    Lin Jiang asked the servants to collect bugs for feeding. He specifically requested them to catch bugs from the spiritual rice field and the Spiritual Peach trees. These two things were spiritual nts, and the bugs on them might also have some spiritual energy.

    Lin Jiang treated the servants well, and they were willing to do this task. It was mainly because they didn''t have to do it themselves; they could have the kids in the house do it instead.

    This way, Lin Jiang could get a heap of bugs every day, and his life became more enjoyable. Feeding the little birds was a very interesting thing.

    When the Aurora Falcons grew a little bigger, Lin Jiang started feeding them meat. He would cut pieces of Iron-backed Pig meat into strips and throw them out. The Aurora Falcons would jump up and catch them, which was very amusing.

    Five monthster, the Aurora Falcons had grown to the size of regr roosters. However, they were still in their youth and couldn''t fly. Their feathers hadn''t fully developed yet, but they could run quickly on the ground. Even the hunting dogs on the estate couldn''t catch up to them.

    Watching them run, Lin Jiang remembered a GIF he had once seen online, showing what looked like a bird running on the ground, with the caption "Shadiao (stupid bird)."

    So Lin Jiang didn''t care if they were falcons or eagles, and decided to name them Big Shadiao (big stupid bird) and Small Shadiao (small stupid bird).

    "Big Shadiao, Small Shadiao,e here quickly!"

    The young Aurora Falcons apparently didn''t know that people can be dangerous, and happily hopped over and affectionately nudged Lin Jiang''s leg. Lin Jiangughed out loud and took out a piece of jerky, tossing it over. Both Shadiao grabbed onto one end of the jerky at the same time.

    Neither of them wanted to let go, so they stood there ring at each other, looking all puffed up. This amused Lin Jiang.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10

    At first, Lin Jiang didn''t take Lin Ying''s words seriously, thinking, how much can two Shadiao eat? But a yearter, when the two Shadiao started molting, their appetites grew dramatically. One Aurora Falcon could eat four to five kilograms of jerky in a day, even more than Lin Jiang himself.

    And if they weren''t fed enough, they would go to the fish pond and catch fish. One Silver Light Fish was worth fifteen spiritual beads, while a Silver Arrow Fish was worth thirty spiritual beads. Even with a slightpse in attention, they could snatch away several. Lin Jiang felt so heartbroken that he would grab them and give them a good beating.

    After getting beaten a few times, they realized they couldn''t catch fish in the pond anymore, so they started causing trouble for the tenants in the estate by harming their poultry, such as chickens, ducks, geese, and rabbits. Lin Jiang was fair-minded and had topensate the tenants for their losses.

    After a year and a half, Aurora Falcon grew new feathers and learned how to fly. Its predatory features were fully exposed, and it could even hunt the goats on the ranch. Lin Jiang could hardly afford to feed them anymore, so he had to teach them how to hunt and harm the wildlife in the mountains.

    "Sixth Brother, these two Aurora Falcons have be mythical creatures already. They should be at the lower first-grade level, simr to cultivators in the early stages of Qi Refining. If Sixth Brother trains them well, they will be able to assist you in future battles."

    When Lin Die and Lin Ying returned to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Lin Die looked up at the flying Aurora Falcons and said that she didn''t expect Lin Jiang to have such patience and actually raise the Aurora Falcons.

    "I hope so, but they eat too much. One Aurora Falcon can eat about ten kilograms of fresh meat in a day. If I have to feed thempletely, I really can''t afford it. They can eat a whole Iron-backed Pig in seven or eight days, which is not enough for them."

    "Hehe, brother, now you understand the importance of listening to the advice of elders and avoiding immediate losses, right?"

    Lin Ying put her hands on her hips and said in a bossy manner, "I''ve been telling you this for a long time, but you didn''t listen. Whose fault is it?""So now I''m training them to hunt for their own food. The pressure is okay, and besides, I''m not poor anymore. This year, I developed fifty acres of spiritualnd and n to grow medicinal herbs with others."

    Lin Jiang shrugged and pursed his lips. He didn''t regret it. Although these two fellows ate a lot, they also brought him a lot of joy in the past two years and made his boring life more exciting.

    "Can mortals like you cultivate spiritual herbs on your ranch?"

    "Yes, I asked the elders in the tribe. I only nt the lower-grade Yellow Shoot Grass instead of those high-level spiritual herbs. I harvest once a year, and from one acre ofnd, I can earn around three pieces of spirit stone."

    Lin Jiang said, "I have plenty of spiritualnd, the area of Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi is veryrge. Within a radius of thirty li, it''s all my territory. ording to the elders, based on the spiritual veins of Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, I can develop two thousand mu of spiritualnd."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    However, Lin Jiang didn''t have enough manpower. Thirty mu of spiritualnd was the limit for the current estate. If there was more, they''d have to squeeze the tenants like crazy. Lin Jiang was not that ruthless yet.

    Yellow Shoot Grass was one of the main ingredients of the Qi Gathering Pill. It had a guaranteed market. Besides the seeds, Lin Jiang didn''t spend any money on other materials. The ie of three pieces of spirit stone per acre was a conservative estimate.

    "Elder Huang in the family is a first-grade premium Spiritual Farmer. You should consult him and learn from him. If you seed, your ie can increase significantly. The higher your cultivation level, the more spiritual stones you need for your practice."

    "I know that."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Currently, he earned a little over five hundred spirit stones per year, but his expenses were actually quite low. He barely used money on his basic needs. The only thing he spent money on was buying Qi Gathering Pills.

    However, Lin Jiang was tooid-back. He only practiced for two and a half hours a day. It took him three days to refine one Qi Gathering Pill, and then another three days to cleanse the impurities in his body. So, he only needed around five pills per month. One Qi Gathering Pill cost only two spirit stones. His annual consumption was only a little over a hundred spirit stones, so he could save money.

    "When you reach the mid-stage of Qi Refining, you can buy some Energy Nourishing Pills to strengthen your foundation. Combined with Qi Gathering Pills, it will greatly improve your progress. Your cultivation speed is too slow."

    Lin Die thought for a moment and said, "Lin Jiang is 38 years old and only at the third level of Qi Refining. He is the slowest in the Lin family in terms of cultivation speed. Little Nine is also five years younger than Lin Jiang and has already reached the fifth level of Qi Refining."

    "Third Sister, the most important thing in life is to be happy. If practicing cultivation doesn''t make me happy, then what''s the point of doing it, right?"

    "You have been protected by the family too well."

    Lin Die said. Lin Jiang''s primary focus in life was happiness, but hers was not. Just like Lin Batian, her top priority now was to ensure the safety and prosperity of the Lin family, to continue its legacy forever.

    "For the country''s life and death, we bear the responsibility of passing on the family legacy."

    Lin Jiang had this sentence sh through his mind, but he didn''t say it out loud. He quickly changed the topic. Every time they talked about cultivation, Lin Die always had a resentful attitude towards him, and Lin Jiang didn''t really like it.

    He knew Lin Die was looking out for him, but Lin Jiang had his own ns. His cultivation talent was poor, so he should focus on long-term nning. There was a saying, "Haste makes waste." If he became too impatient and rushed things, it would only lead to his aversion towards cultivation. He didn''t know if he could improve his cultivation speed, but he was certainly afraid of losing control.

    Lin Jiang really liked this kind of life now. No pressure, just spending each day practicing cultivation, tending to the fields, and feeding the birds. It was peaceful and there was no risk of losing control.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Elder Huang was specially invited by Lin Batian as a Spiritual Farmer. Although his cultivation level was not high, he possessed various techniques in cultivation. The four major techniques in cultivation were Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. However, the other techniques were also important, such as spirit animal control and cultivating spiritual nts.

    Originally, the required spiritual herbs for alchemy were collected from the wild. However, the production of wild spiritual herbs was very low and soon not enough for the cultivators. Therefore, the industry of Spiritual Farmers emerged, specializing in cultivating spiritual herbs and everything else needed for cultivation.

    A skilled Spiritual Farmer was not inferior in status to an alchemist of the same level. In fact, due to their scarcity, their status could be even higher.

    Lin Jiang wanted to grow spiritual herbs in the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, so he needed the help of a Spiritual Farmer. For this reason, Lin Jiang returned to Lin Jiang''s sect and followed Elder Huang to learn the techniques of a Spiritual Farmer.

    Lin Jiang was a person who respected knowledge and skills. Even though Elder Huang had promised to teach him generously, Lin Jiang still made great effort. He greeted Elder Huang every morning, brought him meals at noon, and hosted dinners in the evening, treating him to fine wine and delicious food, trying his best to please.

    This attitude touched Elder Huang. Not only did he wholeheartedly teach Lin Jiang, but he also came to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi personally to help train the tenants, teaching them how to cultivate Yellow Shoot Grass.

    After more than half a year of hard work, Lin Jiang finally learned how to cultivate Yellow Shoot Grass. In his fortieth year, Lin Jiang finally harvested his first batch of Yellow Shoot Grass. The ie of the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi this year also exceeded seven hundred spirit stones, bringing Lin Jiang great joy.

    There was another happy event. In Lin Jiang''s forty-first year, he finally broke through to the mid-stage of Qi Refining, reaching the fourthyer. The reason for his rapid progress was because since he went to Anhua City a few years ago, he had been buying high-quality Qi Gathering Pills from there. The price was more expensive, but the effect was better. Lin Jiang had enough money and had been using the pills from Anhua City.

    The fourthyer of Qi Refining was a significant milestone in the cultivation world. With this cultivation level, one''s spiritual power allowed them to fly on a sword and cast spells, no longer needing mortal techniques to fight and kill enemies.

    Lin Jiang spent a month practicing swordsmanship until he became skilled. Then, he took his flying sword and went to the Lin Jiang Mountain Gate. It only took him a little over two hours to cover the distance of 800 miles.

    "On the left, there''s Big Shadiao, and on the right, Small Shadiao. Stepping on the flying sword, whee!"

    Big and Small Shadiao flew alongside Lin Jiang and arrived swiftly at the Lin family mountain gate.

    Lin Jiang couldn''t afford to show any foolishness in front of Lin Batian anymore. After all, his shame as part of the Lin family had long been known outside. He came just to pay a visit to his dear mother.

    Zhuang Rong, his dear mother, was getting close to sixty years old. She had been stuck at the ninth level of Qi Refining for many years, and she didn''t have much motivation for cultivation anymore. Well, that''s just how things were.

    In recent years, Lin Jiang had been enthusiastic about finding a partner for himself. Either the women offered by the Lin family or the female cultivators from several other families that Lin family had good rtions with were all potential candidates. He had already been on more than ten blind dates.

    However, Lin Jiang always managed to mess things up every time. Well, seeding in a blind date was difficult, but sabotaging it was easy. With his personality and image as a tough, macho man, he could scare away most women.

    In this world, Lin Jiang had no intention of getting married, because he couldn''t guarantee that his partner and their children would be able to stay with him forever. If he were to invest his emotions and eventually witness his partner and children growing old and dying in front of him, Lin Jiang believed it to be the cruelest thing in the world. So, he decided it was better to avoid it altogether.

    As for physical needs, they were easily solved. There were countless servants in the manor who would dly send their daughters to Lin Jiang''s bed. However, Lin Jiang wasn''t interested in them. asionally, he could easily spend some money and have an "hour-long romantic encounter" with a stranger female cultivator.

    "Mom, I''vee to see you."

    Coming to Zhuang Rong''s yard, Lin Jiang casually sat in front of Zhuang Rong. After so many years, Zhuang Rong had lost some of her enchanting charm and be dignified and elegant, with an air of nobility.

    However, she hadn''t aged at all. Not only did she take good care of herself on a daily basis, but she also spent a lot of money on the Appearance Fixing Pill to maintain her appearance in her thirties.

    "Why are you so sweaty, child? Come, let me wipe off the sweat."

    "Mom, I''m forty-one now, I''m not a child anymore."

    "Even at forty-one, you''re still a child to me, dear."

    "Mom, today I came to discuss with you about living in the estate in the future. I want to take care of you."

    "Um..."

    "Mom, you have no one to socialize with now since Lin Ying is often secluded, either on missions for the Lin family or not seen for days or weeks. Mom, it gets so boring here. In Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, I can apany you every day."

    Lin Jiang said sincerely, "Zhuang Rong has long stopped ying pce intrigue because she simply cannotpete. Lin Batian has a main wife who has been with him since the beginning, and he also has young and beautiful mistresses. How could Zhuang Rong ever be a rival?"

    In the past, Lin Ying used to apany her. But in thest few years, Lin Ying had be busier and busier. As one of the few Foundation Building Stage cultivators in the Lin family, Lin Ying had important duties to fulfill. Sometimes, she went into seclusion to cultivate, and other times she went on missions outside. She rarely visited the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi anymore. As a result, Zhuang Rong couldn''t help but feel a bit lonely.

    And Lin Jiang truly wanted to be filial to Zhuang Rong. He was not a heartless person. Lin Jiang was well aware of Zhuang Rong''s kindness towards him. On the other hand, his father barely visited once a year and had no emotional connection at all. So, he wanted to bring Zhuang Rong to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi to spend her remaining years in peace.

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    Volume 3 will be tranted within 2 - 3 weeks.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11

    In the early morning, when the first ray of sunlight shone into the room, Zhuang Rong got up. After a simple wash, a maid brought breakfast.

    "Madam, the young master has brought you breakfast."

    After the maid set down the breakfast, she helped Zhuang Rongbed her hair and tie it into a braid.

    "My son really cares about me."

    Soon, Zhuang Rong started eating her breakfast. It was a simple meal - porridge made from spiritual paddy, a few side dishes, and a ss of milk.

    "The young master made this himself. He can cook!"

    "If he doesn''t study well, what use is it for the young master of the Lin family to be skilled in the kitchen?"

    "It''s also a way of filial piety. Madam, think about it, among the previous madams in the house, which one could eat dishes personally made by the young master and miss?"

    "Well, that is true."Zhuang Rong nodded. Lin Batian had around ten concubines, most of whom had children. But those young masters and misses, how would they know how to cook? It was the servants who did the cooking.

    "Let''s go see what my son is doing."

    After finishing breakfast, Zhuang Rong said to the maid, and then walked out of the house. After asking a few servants, she found out that Lin Jiang was on the other side of the spiritualnd. They went to the spiritualnd together.

    At this time, Lin Jiang was watering the Fifty-acre Yellow Shoot Grass. Yellow Shoot Grass was a first-grade spiritual medicine. The spiritual energy brought by the spring water of Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi was very weak, so Elder Huang told Lin Jiang that the water source here didn''t meet the standards and needed magic to fix it.

    Previously, Lin Jiang used to directly buy Rain Talisman to activate spiritual talismans, which could make rain fall. This rain would bring some spiritual energy. But now, Lin Jiang had reached the fourth level of Qi Refining, and the spiritual power inside his body was sufficient to support the magic needed. He used the Cloud Rain Technique to water the Yellow Shoot Grass on his own.

    "Mother, why have youe?"

    "I was bored at the manor, so I came to see you."

    "It''s my fault for not considering it. I don''t know what you usually do, so I''ll find something for you to do."

    Lin Jiang said, "People shouldn''t be idle. When you''re idle, you have a lot of nonsense on your hands. Of course, you shouldn''t be too tired either. It''s best to bnce work and leisure. Since I don''t know what Zhuang Rong usually does, I didn''t have any ns for her."

    "I didn''t do anything on normal days. I eagerly waited for your father toe and tried to please him. Looking back now, I wasted my time. Now that my life is short and I have no hope of spiritual cultivation, I don''t know what to do."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhuang Rong said, with some regret in her voice, that she realized she had wasted her life. She used to spend her days only thinking about pleasing Lin Batian and lived solely for him. She never lived for herself.

    She remembered that Lin Jiang had told her before to improve her cultivation. It made sense to her, but she couldn''t bear the monotony of the practice and gave up.

    "The past is the past. With your body, living for another fifty years is not a problem. In such a long time, you can still live a wonderful life. Instead of thinking about the heavenly beings, many mortals can''t even live for fifty years and still have to go on with their lives, right?"

    Lin Jiang said, after a lengthy exnation, he managed to persuade Zhuang Rong to stay at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi for her retirement. Lin Jiang also felt sorry for Zhuang Rong for dedicating her whole life to Lin Batian, so he hoped that she would start living for herself from now on.

    "My son is right. What do you think I can do?"

    "At the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, there are peach trees. In spring, the peach blossoms bloom. You can go and enjoy the flowers, or you can help maintain the peach orchard. There is also a spiritualnd where we grow spiritual rice. If you want, you can also help the tenants take care of the spiritualnd. There is a fish pond, and you can feed the fish or go fishing. If you catch any fish, your children can cook them for you. I know several ways to cook dozens of different fish."

    "I also have two Aurora falcons. They often bring back some prey, and then I can cook delicious food for you. If that''s not possible, if you have any needs, you can let us know, and we will do our best to fulfill them."

    Lin Jiang said that he hadn''t considered things well and didn''t arrange things properly for Zhuang Rong, so she had nothing to do.

    "I don''t know any of these things. My father raised me as a properdy, teaching me music, chess, calligraphy, painting, dancing, as well as some cooking and ounting."

    "Does Mother still want to reach the Building Foundation Period? If so, I have some spirit stones here that I can use to buy a Building Foundation Pill for you."

    "The Building Foundation Pill costs tens of thousands of spirit stones. Your money isn''t enough. Besides, I''m almost sixty and don''t want to bother anymore. From now on, Mother can cook for you."

    "I invited Mother here to enjoy her retirement, not to work for me. How about this, Mother can do whatever you want and let me know if you need anything."

    Lin Jiang couldn''t think of anything suitable to keep her upied for the moment. Most tasks were unsuitable. Lin Jiang wanted to help her pass the time without tiring her too much.

    Lin Jiang finished casting spells in the Yellow Shoot Grass spiritualnd. He had to go back to his cultivation. He followed a strict schedule of morning, afternoon, and evening practice. He was a very disciplined person.

    After finishing his cultivation, it was already noon. Lin Jiang personally cooked avish meal for Zhuang Rong. His cooking skills were superb. In another world, he had started cooking for his family when he was still very young. Later, when he studied and worked, he mainly cooked for himself. He followed many cooking channels and learned a lot about cooking.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    In the first few days at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Zhuang Rong didn''t do much. She just watched Lin Jiang work. The Lin family at the mountain gate called Lin Jiang a shame for the Lin family. They scolded him for beingzy, not liking to practice, and wasting time.

    However, after a few days, Zhuang Rong realized that her son was notzy. Lin Jiang woke up early every day. He first used magic to water the Yellow Shoot Grass spiritualnd. He also fed the pigs and fish. He had to patrol the spiritualnd, train, and practice spells. He had a busy schedule from morning till night. At most, he just didn''t like to train hard.

    Zhuang Rong also found that Lin Jiang had a great personality. Despite being scolded by the Lin family for decades, he never argued back. He treated the servants with kindness and seemed to be an excellent son.

    "It''s a pity that such an outstanding son doesn''t want to get married."

    Zhuang Rong sighed in her heart. The more she looked at her son now, the more satisfied she became. The only regret was that he didn''t want to get married. She had reminded him many times and had arranged blind dates, but they all ended up failing. She had no idea what he was thinking.

    Lin Jiang didn''t know what Zhuang Rong was thinking. He was just doing his own thing and leading his own life. After reaching the mid-level of Qi Refining, he became even busier than before.

    Sometimes, when Lin Jiang calmed down, he would think that he seemed even busier than a 9-to-6 job. What happened to lying t and beingzy?

    But then, Lin Jiang thought it was understandable. Lying t and beingzy was a mindset of only workers. It wouldn''t give the boss a chance to live the way he wanted. But now, he was no longer a worker.

    The entire Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi belonged to him. All the benefits were his. No matter how much he did, it was for himself. Instead, he became the boss, and the two hundred servants became his workers. It was those servants who should be lying t and bezy.

    After thinking about it, Lin Jiang suddenly felt much better, and he had more motivation to do things. He had fulfilling days every day.

    Time passed mercilessly, and after three more years, on Lin Jiang''s forty-fifth birthday, Lin Ying suddenly appeared at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. Her pale face startled Zhuang Rong and Lin Jiang.

    After careful questioning, Lin Jiang learned that Lin Ying was injured, and the Lin family had suffered a great loss. They had lost more than ten people, and for the first time in decades, the thriving Lin family had been hit hard.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12

    At the entrance of the Lin home, there were five bodies lying on the ground, covered with white cloth. The cries around were deafening, and it felt as if the sky was about to copse.

    Numerous members of the n were watching, all with solemn expressions. Even the naughtiest children who usually liked to joke around dared not make any jokes in this atmosphere.

    Lin Jiang quietly stood among the crowd, watching the rtives who were crying and wailing. He had already learned the details from Lin Ying.

    The cultivation world in Yun State was a chaotic ce, where humans and demons coexisted. Many cultivators made a living by hunting demons. Twelve hundred miles west of the Lin family''s gate was the territory of the demons.

    The Lin family''s main source of ie also came from hunting demons. Without it, the Lin family''s current territory alone could not support their huge expenses. So, the Lin family often led teams to venture deep into the demon territory to hunt and kill demon beasts, collect spiritual medicines, and mine ores to obtain cultivation resources.

    And this matter -mostly led by Lin Batian himself- once the Lin family members had grown up, they mostly followed Lin Batian''s lead. In the past few years, although people asionally got injured and a guest or two might die, no Lin family member has died.

    But this time, including the guests, more than ten people died in total, and only five bodies were retrieved. The rest were all devoured by the demonic beasts and their bones were gone.

    The reason for this incident was the betrayal by the Zhou family. Despite Lin Batian''s efforts in expanding their territory for many years, he also understood the principle of "keep your friends close, but your enemies closer." Not far from the Lin family, there is the Zhou family. Lin family maintained a good rtionship with them and they often acted together, cooperating several times.

    However, this time, the Zhou family suddenly broke their promise. They were originally supposed to work together with the Lin family to annihte a group of Iron Wood Demon Wolves. If sessful, the rewards would be huge, surpassing the past few years'' profits.ording to the two families'' n, the Zhou family would make the first move by luring the Wolf King and the elite demon wolves away. Then, the Lin family would enter the wolf''s den, kill the remaining wolves, and collect the spiritual herbs. Finally, they would join forces with the Zhou family to deal with the Wolf King.

    However, after they started, the Wolf King, who should have been led away, reappeared and attacked the wolf''s den from behind. The Lin family suffered heavy casualties with more than thirty people. If it weren''t for Lin Batian''s brave fight to drive away the Wolf King, the Lin family might have beenpletely wiped out.

    Now Lin Jiang and the rest of the Lin family were all thinking the same thing: Will Lin Batian go to war with the Zhou family? The Zhou family was not a neer; they had been passed down for over five hundred years and were an established Golden Core family. They had several times more members at the Qi Refining and Foundation Building levelspared to the Lin family.

    "He''sing out."

    Someone eximed, and Lin Jiang looked up, seeing Lin Batian walking out surrounded by his wives and concubines. Everyone immediately looked at Lin Batian.

    Lin Batian''s face looked very unpleasant, somewhat pale. Lin Ying said he was thest person to break off.

    "The daughter-inw of the fifth brother, the daughter-inw of the thirteenth brother, the daughter-inw of the second elder brother, the daughter-inw of the eldest son in the second family, the daughter-inw of the seventh family, alle out."

    Lin Batian nced coldly at everyone, then pointed at five people. The people who were pointed at stood up in fear. Lin Jiang also saw that Lin Hai was somewhat frightened.

    "The difficulties faced by the Lin family today are closely rted to the Zhou family. The five of you should go back to the Zhou family and demand an exnation. If they don''t give you one, don''te back. Let each of you find your own fate."

    "Dad."

    "Grandpa."

    "Father-inw."

    "Please, I don''t want to leave."

    When Lin Batian said this, many people were panicked. These five people were daughters of the Zhou family who had married into the Lin family. Although Lin Batian had never liked the idea of arranged marriages, the Lin and Zhou families had been cooperating for many years and their members often interacted. It was inevitable that people with simr interests would be drawn to each other, so a total of five people married into the Lin family.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    At this moment, Lin Batian spoke very clearly. He wanted the Zhou family to give an exnation. If they didn''t, he would cut off all ties with them. Whether they would go to war in the future was uncertain, but for now, they needed to send away the Zhou family''s daughters. Perhaps they feared a real fight, but they still had feelings for the Zhou family.

    No matter how everyone begged, Lin Batian remained unmoved. Based on his personality, if it weren''t for taking care of his sons and grandsons, he might have already started a direct war with the Zhou family. There was no need to trouble a group of women.

    A guest from the Lin family appeared, staring at each person, and took the five of them away. After a simple tidy up, they were sent out of the Lin family''s gate and had to make their own way home.

    "The path of cultivation is filled with danger, and no one can guarantee who will survive until tomorrow. I am the same. The difficulties faced by the Lin family today, I hope you all will keep in mind. In the future, you should focus on cultivating and avoid falling victim to swords and daggers."

    "Alright, Steward Wu. Bury the bodies tomorrow morning, keep it simple, no need for extravagance."

    Lin Batian looked at everyone and gave them some sincere teachings. Then he told Steward Wu to bury the bodies tomorrow, keeping it simple. Cultivators didn''t attach much importance to funerals, let alone the Lin family''s current precarious situation.

    Lin Jiang dispersed with everyone else, but he quickly went to Lin Die''s side. Lin Ying told Lin Jiang that Lin Die was also injured, so he came to visit her specifically.

    "I''m fine. How is Lin Ying?"

    Lin Die didn''t originally want to see anyone, but after giving it some thought, she agreed to see Lin Jiang.

    "It''s not very serious. She took some medicine and are currently healing. The external injuries have already healed."

    "That''s good. I''m also fine here. Just tell Lin Ying to be careful."

    "Third Sister, what happened this time? Did the Zhou family betray us?"

    "I can''t say for sure, but it''s very possible. In the past ten years, the Zhou family has been struggling to develop. Their so-called geniuses are no match for us. Moreover, the Zhou family patriarch doesn''t have much time left. Once he passes away and no new Golden Core Period experts appear in the Zhou family, they will eventually be taken over by others. Even if we, the Lin family, don''t take action, other families won''t let them go."

    "ording to Third Sister, the Zhou family should be trying to curry favor with us. Why would they betray us? If the Zhou family loses their Golden Core Period experts, shouldn''t they rely on their good rtionship with the Lin family?"

    Lin Jiang couldn''t understand. ording to Third Sister, they should be trying to curry favor. ''Why would they betray us? It doesn''t make sense.''

    "Who knows what they''re thinking, but this matter is not so easily resolved. Eleven, sixteen have died, and four of our younger rtives have also died. Those guest disciples were all backbone members. It can be said that the power of our Lin family has been weakened by about twenty percent. This vengeance must be avenged."

    "Are we really going to war?"

    "War won''t happen immediately. I know Dad''s personality. He may seem reckless and straightforward, but he has a n in mind. We just need to endure for another twenty years. Once the Zhou family patriarch dies, we can easily take revenge. We won''t take action now.

    But be cautious of any proactive actions from the Zhou family. Sixth Brother, since you are far from the mountain gate, you need to be careful, especially since our mother is there. If necessary, move back home temporarily."

    "Understood, Third Sister. I will strengthen the defense."

    "Still, be cautious. It would be best toe back."

    "Take good rest, Third Sister. I''lle back to see you in a few days."

    Lin Jiang didn''t say anything else and quickly left. That night, instead of leaving the mountain gate, Lin Jiang stayed and discussed with everyone.

    Although Lin Jiang rarely returned to the mountain gate, he was also a member of the Lin family''s second generation. With the Lin family in trouble, he had to lend a hand. However, his cultivation level was too low, at the fourth level of Qi Refining. Now, even the Lin family''s fourth generation had people surpassing him, which made Lin Jiang feel powerless.

    Lin Jiang didn''t make a fuss either. The next morning, he hurried back to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi and instructed the guards to increase their patrol efforts. If anything seemed suspicious, they were to raise an rm immediately.

    Later, Lin Jiang told Zhuang Rong about the situation. Zhuang Rong was also visibly worried and suggested, "Jiang, why don''t we go back to the mountain gate? Your father would be safer there."

    "Mother, the real danger lies in an actual fight at the mountain gate. Just think about it, if the Zhou family were to attack, what would they gain by targeting our Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi? There is no wealth here, and no important figures either. This ce is actually safer."

    Lin Jiang said that he couldn''t believe why the Zhou family didn''t attack the mountain gate, but instead chose to attack them, it was useless.

    Zhuang Rong thought Lin Jiang had a point, so she just told him to go back and see for himself, as there was strength in numbers during troubled times.

    After a day and night of rest and healing, Lin Ying felt much better. She couldn''t sit still and went back to the Lin family''s mountain gate with Lin Jiang. This time, there were several new graves next to the Lin family''s mountain gate, and many people from the n went there to mourn. Lin Jiang and Lin Ying also went to pay their respects.

    After that, Lin Jiang stayed by the mountain gate, but Lin Batian never showed up. This led to a lot of spection and discussions among the Lin family members about how the situation would develop next. Lin Jiang found them boring because their words couldn''t influence the situation. He decided to just wait and went to Zhuang Rong''s former courtyard to meditate and practice.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13

    Inside the Zhou family''s mountain gate, the elderly patriarch Zhou Quan was discussing strategies with several high-ranking members of the Zhou family. They already knew about Lin Batian driving away the Zhou family women, as it was within their expectations.

    "Don''t keep sulking, think of a solution."

    Zhou Quan said to the high-ranking members. Zhou Quan used to be a genius in the Zhou family, especially in cultivation, but he wasn''t very good at managing and running the family. Those tasks were handled by other people.

    "Elder, this time we made a big mistake. I''ve been saying it all along, don''t provoke Lin Batian. If we do, it must be a fatal blow. Now it''s hard to end this."

    Zhou Ziming startedining as soon as he spoke. He was now like the leader of the Zhou family, and he handled all the affairs of the Zhou family. He had already discussed with Zhou Quan how to get along with the Lin family.

    Zhou Ziming was the first to mention the threat from the Lin family. He believed that once Zhou Quan passed away, the Lin family would inevitably take over the Zhou family because there were no small families left near the Lin family. If they wanted to expand further, they would have to target families of the same level. Among the families around the Lin family, only the Zhou family faced the situation of being unable to continue.

    Zhou Ziming''s strategy was to first befriend the Lin family, and then find an opportunity to deal a deadly blow to Lin Batian. Once the Lin family lost Lin Batian, the others would be easily defeated, and the Zhou family could easily take over the Lin family and plunder their property. Who knows, maybe the Zhou family could cultivate new cultivators in the Golden Core Period. But now, it was all messed up.

    "How would I know that Lin Batian is so powerful? He''s just like me, in the early stage of the golden core period. But this time, he killed a mid-stage third-order Iron Wood Demon Wolf. His cultivation technique must be amazing."

    Zhou Quan was also very angry. In his opinion, this was the best opportunity to destroy the Lin family. The Wolf King of the Iron Wood Demon Wolf was at the mid-stage of the third order, equivalent to a human in the mid-stage Golden Core Period. He dragged down other members of the Lin family and distracted Lin Batian. How could he not die?"Once we take action, we must be decisive. When Lin Batian kills the Iron Wood Demon Wolf, he will definitely pay a price. At that time, our ancestor must do whatever it takes to kill him."

    "He ran too fast."

    Zhou Quan said, unwilling to admit that he had seen Lin Batian burst out and directly kill the Wolf King of the Iron Wood Demon Wolf with a spear. He was stunned and didn''t dare to make a move.

    "Sigh."

    "Stop sighing, tell me what to do."

    "Grandfather, we are going to war. Can we defeat Lin Batian?"

    "It''s difficult. Lin Batian is young and arrogant, while I am old and weak. If we fight, I have less than a 20% chance of winning."

    Zhou Quan spoke honestly at this moment. His lifespan was less than twenty years, his strength was greatly diminished, and Lin Batian was in his prime. Moreover, from Lin Batian''s recent disy of power, he might have been hiding some of his strength. A 20% chance of winning was being conservative.

    "In that case, we can only make peace first. Bring gifts and go to the Lin family to apologize."

    "Um..."

    The other high-ranking members of the Zhou family immediately showed displeasure. The Zhou family, arge family for hundreds of years, would have to bow down to the Lin family? Where would the Zhou family''s dignity go?

    "A true man can be flexible. Apologizing and making amends is nothing. Even if we have to sacrifice some of our people, our hope now lies in Zilin. If Zilin can break through to the Golden Core Period, then anything is possible. We might even defeat Lin Batian."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhou Ziming said coldly and then looked at a silent man. He was Zhou Zilin, Zhou Ziming''s younger brother. He hadpleted his cultivation at the Foundation Building Period and was only one step away from the Golden Core Period.

    Now, the whole hope of the Zhou family was on him. If he could break through to Golden Core before Zhou Quan''s departure, then it would be two against one, and even Zhou Quan and Lin Batian might perish together, and it might not be impossible to seed.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Steward Wu from the Lin family saw Lin Batianing out of the room and immediately approached, saying, "Master, how are your injuries?"

    "Nothing is wrong. Has the Zhou family responded?"

    "Not yet, temporarily."

    "Hateful, so hateful! They killed my descendants. I wish to wipe out the entire Zhou family immediately."

    "Master, don''t be angry. The Zhou family is just like grasshoppers in the autumn, hopping around for only a few days. Once the old man Zhou Quan dies, you can openly merge the Zhou family and take revenge for everything."

    "Having skills but unable to use them, how frustrating."

    "Endure a little longer. We have endured for almost a hundred years, what''s another twenty years?"

    Steward Wu once again tried to persuade Lin Batian. He knew that Lin Batian''s strength was not just simple on the surface. Lin Batian''s background was extremely surprising. Only a few people in the entire Lin family knew about this, even Lin Batian''s legal wife didn''t know.

    "I understand, I can endure it. Ah, I don''t know when I can go back..."

    "Ahem"

    "I understand, I won''t say anything. You have worked hard all these years."

    Steward Wu''s cough interrupted Lin Batian''s reminiscence. Apologizing, Lin Batian said to him that Steward Wu had helped him a lot over the years. The rapid expansion of the Lin family was thanks to a group of allies, and Steward Wu was the leader of these allies.

    "This is what I should do, it is not difficult. But the family has suffered a lot these years."

    "Let''s not talk about that. How is the situation at home?"

    "It''s fine. The family''s heirs are all strong and preparing for battle. They are not afraid of Zhou family, even the Sixth Young Master has returned."

    "The Sixth Child, ah, forget about him. It makes me angry when he''s mentioned."

    Lin Batian was stunned, but he said it out loud and felt okay inside. Although his Sixth Child was not good at cultivation, he was very filial and was the first one in the family to take care of their mother. He did a decent job this time too, which prevented any trouble for the family.

    "Although Sixth Young Master is not good at cultivation, he has a talent for managing. When he took over Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, it only earned about two to three hundred spirit stones a year, but in the past two years, it has already exceeded eight hundred spirit stones."

    "What''s the use of low cultivation? The Qi Refining Period only gives a hundred years of lifespan. My Lin family is not yet at the stage of stability and management. We should keep expanding without hesitation."

    Lin Batian shook his head. He knew Lin Jiang''s managerial skills, and Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi had done well in recent years. If the Lin family had been a family that had been managed for several generations, they would surely employ someone like him.

    But not now. The Lin family was a newly rising family, full of ambition. They needed to expand as much as possible while they still had this fervor, toy a solid foundation for the future. If they didn''t expand now, it would be difficultter on.

    "News."

    "Reporting to the n leader, someone from the Zhou family has arrived."

    Just as the two of them were talking, someone outside shouted loudly. The news from the Zhou family had finally arrived.

    "Who from the Zhou family hase?"

    "It''s Zhou Ziming, with five guards and a carriage, looks like he brought gifts."

    "Hmm hmm."

    Lin Batian snorted coldly, Zhou family''s reaction was as he expected, old man Zhou Quan didn''t have the courage to start a war with him, they were here to apologize.

    Soon, Lin Batian met with Zhou Ziming, who brought generous gifts and personally apologized, saying that Zhou Quan, the old man of Zhou family, was injured by the Iron Wood Demon Wolf, causing their forces to be defeated and allowing the Iron Wood Demon Wolf to retreat, resulting in heavy losses for Lin family.

    Lin Batian didn''t dwell on it, Zhou family extended an olive branch, and he took advantage of the situation, indicating that this conflict was over and the two families would continue to get along harmoniously in the future.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14

    "Zhou family is talking nonsense."

    "No one believes their bullshits."

    In Lin Die''s courtyard, Lin Ying was cursing at Zhou family, believing that they were talking nonsense. She thought old man Zhou Quan probably never even fought against the Iron Wood Demon Wolf, so there was no injury or defeat - they simply betrayed the Lin family.

    "Old Ten, forget it, Dad must have a n"

    "Yes, Lin Ying, don''t get too excited"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang also nodded, he didn''t believe the Zhou family''s words either. But even if he didn''t, now was not the time to act. The Lin family''s foundation was still unstable. Among the Lin family descendants, there were only four in the Foundation Building Period, not capable.

    Lin Batian probably saw this too, that was why he didn''t blow up and chose to tolerate it.

    "I will remember this grudge, it''s not that easy to resolve"Lin Ying was still very angry. Blood was thicker than water. Several Lin family juniors had died, they were all her younger siblings and nieces. This grudge must be avenged.

    "We will talk about the grudgeter, let''s focus on healing first"

    "Third Sister, take good rest. I''ll go back first. Lin Ying, do you want to rest at home ore with me to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi?"

    "Let me go and check on Mom"

    "Let''s go together."

    Lin Jiang nodded, and then returned to Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi with Lin Ying. Zhuang Rong found out that the two families wouldn''t fight and felt relieved.

    She didn''t care about seeking revenge or not, she only worried about her children. The Zhou family was not weak, if they really fought, the Lin family would suffer losses.

    Lin Batian knew Lin Ying was at Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, so he sent some medicine for her injuries and instructed her to take good care of herself.

    Lin Ying''s injuries were not serious, she just needed rest. It was estimated that she would fully recover in two to three months at most. She was currently lively and active.

    However, Lin Ying wanted to take the opportunity to bezy. At Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, she was the most favored. In front of her was her mother, and beside her was her older brother. She enjoyed being showered with love and didn''t want to recover too quickly.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    At Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Lin Jiang stood by the window. In front of him, Zhuang Rong and Lin Ying were chatting by the fire, and they even caught and roasted several chickens and ducks from the farm. Lin Ying''s ability to cause trouble was not inferior to two mischievous cats.

    This scene was heartwarming and made Lin Jiang feelfortable. If possible, he wanted to maintain this kind of life forever. However, in reality, Lin Jiang was considering how to leave the Lin family.

    He was already forty-five years old. In recent years, he had been growing a beard to make himself look more mature and older, in order to conceal his secret. Otherwise, he would still look seventeen, which was abnormal. Even for cultivators who took good care of themselves, it would be difficult to achieve this.

    Lin Jiang could disguise himself as a middle-aged person, but what about when he became old? Once he reached the age of sixty in the Qi Refining Period, his vitality would start to decline rapidly and he would age quickly, unless he spent a lot of money to buy an Appearance Adjustment Pill.

    But Lin Jiang was a man, and men rarely cared about their appearance. The main purchasers of Appearance Adjustment Pills were usually women, like Zhuang Rong.

    Even if Lin Jiang used this excuse, it couldn''t dy for long. The lifespan of cultivators was usually around one hundred years, and even those who practiced good health preservation could only live to one hundred and twenty at most. And those were the few exceptions.

    Lin Jiang didn''t think he could reach the Foundation Building stage before the age of one hundred. Even if he tried his best, his aptitude was still a factor to consider.

    So Lin Jiang had been thinking about this problem for a long time, how to break free, and where to go after that. Without the protection of the Lin family, he would have to face many problems in the future, such as safety and ie.

    Right now, he was relying on the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He didn''t have to worry about food and drink, and he had abundant cultivation resources. He even had some savings every year. But what would he do after he lost this property? These were all questions he needed to carefully consider.

    "I still need to use the Appearance Fixing Pill. This way, I can dy aging for several decades. Zhuang Rong has been good to me, and I must take care of her in her old age. Then I can save money and break free. By that time, I can go to Anhua City or other major cultivation cities, start a business or open a shop."

    After considering for a long time, Lin Jiang made up his mind. The most important thing about using the Appearance Adjustment Pill was to take care of Zhuang Rong in her old age. Lin Jiang saw Zhuang Rong''s love for him and it was deeply ingrained in his heart. He had to repay her kindness.

    Now, Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi earned more than eight hundred spirit stones every year. With Lin Jiang''s expenses, he could save about five hundred spirit stones each year. After several decades, it wouldn''t be difficult for him to take away tens of thousands of spirit stones when he left. This amount of money was already a lot, enough for Lin Jiang to settle down elsewhere.

    "We also need to find another protection technique. I think symbol magic is quite good."

    Immediately, Lin Jiang considered the issue of safety. In fact, over the past two years, Lin Jiang had increased his practice of spells and swordsmanship. Although he hadn''t had much actualbat experience, Lin Jiang felt that he was doing well in the mid-stage of Qi Refining. After all, other cultivators hadn''t invested as much time in spells and swordsmanship. Months and years of practice would definitely not be in vain.

    But it was still not enough. After all, with his cultivation limited, it was useless to face someone at a higher realm, no matter how proficient his spells were. The strength between both sides was iparable.

    So, other means were still needed. What Lin Jiang thought of was symbol magic. Among the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals иC Pills, Talismans, Items, and Formations иC only symbol magic could directly increase a cultivator''sbat power. A single spiritual talisman only required a bit of spiritual consciousness and spiritual energy to activate.

    Over the years, he had bought many spiritual talismans. Besides the Rain Talismans used for farming, there were also some expensive talismans for killing enemies and protecting oneself. With Lin Jiang''s financial resources, he definitely couldn''t buy them inrge quantities. Therefore, drawing talismans himself was the best choice.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Hey, do you want to learn symbol magic?"

    When Lin Ying heard that Lin Jiang wanted to learn to draw talismans, her eyes brightened instantly because she was a Talisman Maker.

    Lin Batian was strict with his children. When they reached the Foundation Building Period, they were required to choose a craft to learn among Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. Lin Die chose alchemy, while Lin Ying chose to learn symbol drawing. They had been studying for a few years and had made some progress.

    "Jiang-er, symbol magic is a good choice. Your grandfather was an excellent talisman maker. His skills reached the middle grade of the second level. Your dowry was earned from the symbols he made. If you want to learn, I can pass on the symbol magic that your grandfather left behind."

    Zhuang Rong also agreed. Her father was able to provide her with a generous dowry because he was an outstanding talisman maker.

    Although Alchemy was the most profitable among Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, if one became proficient in the other three crafts, they would also neverck money.

    "Thank you, Mother. It would be great if my sister can teach me the basics."

    Lin Jiang didn''t decline. The cultivation methods in the world of immortals were tricky. It was almost impossible to learn them without a foundation. The requirements for talent were too high.

    Lin Ying''s ability to learn was also due to Lin Batian''s efforts. The Lin family specifically recruited a talisman maker as an advisor and paid a hefty sum to persuade him to teach Lin Ying the real skills.

    "Hehe, no problem. But remember, if you don''t listen along the way, you''ll get a spanking. As a master, it''s my duty to punish you."

    Lin Yingughed loudly and then pretended to be profound, assuming the posture of an old sage, gesturing towards Lin Jiang and causing Zhuang Rong to burst intoughter.

    After that, Zhuang Rong also took out the talisman making experiences left by her father from the bottom of the box and gave them to Lin Jiang. She didn''t give these things to Lin Ying, which made Lin Ying unhappy. However, she quickly felt better because she wasn''t very good at drawing symbols. She preferred cultivation and the exhration that came with breakthroughs in her realm.

    Lin Jiang bought talisman paper, a talisman pen, and talisman ink, and started learning how to draw symbols with Lin Ying. He studied for two hours during the day and practiced for two hours by himself at night. Because of this, Lin Jiang delegated most of his other tasks, like farming, to Lin Baohua. For things that mortals couldn''t do, he would buy spiritual talismans as substitutes.

    It was unclear if it was a family hereditary talent, but Lin Jiang''s talent for drawing symbols was clearly higher than Lin Ying''s. In just half a month, he sessfully drew his first spiritual talisman, while Lin Ying took a whole year back then.

    This made Lin Ying even more unhappy. Howe she didn''t inherit this talent from the same parents?

    While Lin Ying was recuperating for three months at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Lin Jiang had already learned how to draw five types of spiritual talismans. It took Lin Ying six years to learn how to draw the same five types of spiritual talismans.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15

    It was another year for the family gathering. This year, Lin Jiang was forty-seven years old, marking his thirtieth year since he traveled through time, and he had achieved the fourth level of Qi Refining.

    The number of Lin family members kept increasing, and it already filled more than twenty tables. The courtyard of the ancestral home was almost not enough, and in a few years, it might need to be expanded.

    "Father"

    Eldest Brother Lin Shan was very old, he was 78 years old and didn''t want to take the Appearance Adjustment Pill. He had a head full of white hair and looked the oldest among everyone present.

    "Sit down, Shan''er."

    Lin Batian sighed and asked Lin Shan to sit down. Lin Shan was his legal wife''s child and his firstborn. He loved Lin Shan the most.

    But his most beloved son was unable to break through to Foundation Building Period. He could only watch him grow older day by day. Time was ruthless, and there wasn''t much time left for Lin Shan.

    Sitting next to Lin Shan was Lin He. Though he was also in his seventies, he still looked middle-aged.

    Next to Lin He was Lin Die. She was 55 years old, but she looked even younger, like she was in her twenties. She didn''t take the Appearance Adjustment Pill.The fourth eldest, Lin Yuan, was already married and living elsewhere with her husband''s family. She rarely attended the year-end gatherings. So the fifth eldest, Lin Hai, sat next to Lin Die. Lin Hai was in his fifties and looked fine.

    Lin Jiang''s younger siblings were all young and didn''t have to worry about their lifespan for a short period of time. Their attention was all on Lin Batian. They hoped to receive his approval or encouragement. Children always wanted their father''s love.

    The three generations of the Lin family and even the fourth generation had more and more people growing up. Almost half of them had embarked on the path of cultivation, bing like adults.

    The happiest ones should be the children under twelve years old. They didn''t have to check their Spiritual Root or feel the pressure of practicing. They still had their childlike innocence. The year-end gathering was like their New Year, a chance to eat and drink a lot. Lin Batian specially instructed to prepare delicious food with low spiritual energy for them.

    "This year, the Lin family has developed well. The ie has been increasing, and no one in the n has passed away. There are nine new members and three new babies..."

    Starting a few years ago, Lin Batian would summarize the Lin family''s situation for the year on this day, such as significant events that happened.

    This year, the Lin family gained nine new members, including the legally wedded wife. The concubines were not counted, and there were also three newborns. The three babies meant that they had been tested and have Spiritual Root. They were considered part of the Lin family. Those without Spiritual Root were not considered part of the Lin family. It was harsh and realistic.

    "This year, the Lin family acquired arge treasure, which is the Soul Lamp. After finishing the meal, everyone will go to the ancestral hall and leave a drop of blood and their soul. Steward Wu, who has a lower cultivation level, will assist you. The Soul Lamp is a standard item for our big family. It can monitor your condition and provide family support in case of danger."

    Finally, Lin Batian mentioned that the price of arge treasure like the Soul Lamp was very high. He spent over a hundred thousand spirit stones to have it customized.

    The Soul Lamp had many benefits. When family members put their blood and soul into it, themp was lit, and when they pass away, themp would go out. It could check the safety of the n members. In case of danger, it could activate secret techniques and guide them. The family could then send people to help. It was an essential treasure for a big family.

    After the meal, Lin Jiang followed everyone to the ancestral hall, where Steward Wu was already waiting. Starting from the eldest, each person gave a drop of blood, and Steward Wu also extracted a strand of their soul. For cultivators, it was not a big deal. Resting for ten days to half a month would be enough to recover.

    "The soul goes into the Soul Lamp, and the blood goes into the Soul Card. You must keep the Soul Card safe because it''s rted to your life. If you encounter danger outside, you can activate the Soul Card. The Soul Lamp will guide you and roughly determine your location. The n will dispatch experts to rescue you.

    And the people who are closer to us, the Soul Card will also react, you can consider whether to provide support or not. Generally speaking, the n supports you all in watching out for each other."

    Steward Wu held up a Soul Card and said to everyone, "This is a tool that goes with the Soul Lamp. It will also serve as proof of identity for the n in the future. Please be careful not to lose it, as it will cause a lot of trouble if you do."

    It was soon Lin Jiang''s turn, and he also forced out some blood essence. Steward Wu helped draw out a strand of divine soul and put it into an oilmp. Suddenly, themp burst into mes brighter than even Miss Lin Die.

    "Strange, why is your aura much brighter than Miss Third''s?"

    Steward Wu was very surprised that Sixth Young Master''s Soul Lamp was brighter than Miss Third''s. This was strange because usually the stronger the lifespan, the brighter themp. Just look at themp of Young Master Lin Shan, it was as bright as a yellow bean. And Lin Die, who was now the most advanced among the Lin family''s second generation, was almost at theter stage of Foundation Building.

    "Among mortals, living to seventy is considered rare, but there are also people who can live to a hundred or more. I am afraid of death and good at maintaining health. I believe I can live to a hundred and fifty, which is normal."

    Lin Jiang quickly made up a reason. He took a nce at the system, and his remaining life span was already over ten thousand years. He could outlive the entire Lin family. It would be strange if his Soul Lamp didn''t shine.

    "Sixth Young Master is right."

    Steward Wu scanned Lin Jiang with his divine sense three times, confirming that Lin Jiang''s cultivation level was still at the fourthyer of Qi Refining. He wasn''t impersonating someone else, so it didn''t matter anymore.

    Lin Jiang quickly left and had a conversation with Lin Die. He also visited Eldest Brother Lin Shan. If everything goes as expected, Eldest Brother Lin Shan would be the first one from their generation to pass away. Time waits for no one, and maybe in a few years, he wouldn''t be seen anymore.

    After the New Year, Lin Jiang went to Anhua City with Lin Die and Lin Ying. They pretended to go there to buy Appearance Adjustment Pills, but Lin Jiang couldn''t bear to spend the money. One Appearance Adjustment Pill costs over twenty thousand spirit stones, which was his entire annual ie for over three years. It would take him more than five years to save up that amount.

    After this trip, Lin Jiang''s appearance problem was solved. At least for the next twenty or thirty years, no one would suspect his appearance. He could continue staying in the Lin family.

    The next step was to take care of Zhuang Rong in her old age and prepare to leave the Lin family. Zhuang Rong was currently sixty-eight years old, and Lin Jiang didn''t know how long she would live. He just needed to be filial to Zhuang Rong.

    On the financial side, Lin Jiang''s wealth had been increasing. He umted about five hundred spirit stones each year, and he had been saving for more than ten years. He now had over six thousand spirit stones, which made him wealthier than many people in the Lin family.

    Because Lin Jiang didn''t have a family to support, he spent less on cultivationpared to others. Most of the Lin family members, including other cultivators, invested whatever money they had into cultivation, but Lin Jiang didn''t. His cultivation time was fixed, so his expenses were also fixed. Now, he had an additional expense for drawing symbols each year.

    However, Lin Jiang''s ie was also increasing. The Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi was bing more mature, with various industries fully developed. With more experience, his ie was gradually increasing.

    "Jiang''er, try on the clothes your mother made for you and see if they fit."

    On this day, Zhuang Rong gestured to a piece of clothing for Lin Jiang. In the past few years, Zhuang Rong has been enthusiastic about making clothes for Lin Jiang.

    At first, it was regr fabric, then it upgraded to buying fabric woven with magical materials, and finally she started raising silkworms to weave the fabric herself.

    These silkworms were spiritual silkworms that Lin Jiang bought from Anhua City. The silk they produced was extremely strong, even mortal warriors couldn''t cut it with swords or knives. If a mortal wore it, it would be a magical item.

    "How can Mom''s clothes not fit? I really like it, thank you, Mom."

    Lin Jiang said. He was so moved. It took Zhuang Rong two years to make this garment because there weren''t many spiritual silkworms, and it took two years to umte enough silk.

    "It''s good that you like it. I can make you a garment each year from now on, enough for you to wear for decades."

    "This garment can alsost for decades."

    Lin Jiang forced a smile. With the fabric made from spiritual silkworms, even if he wore it for fifty years, it wouldn''t wear out.

    "Oh, Mom''s only wish now is to see you get married, see your children born. There are so many sisters in the family, and I am the only one who hasn''t be a grandmother."

    Zhuang Rong sighed and said, "Lin Batian has many wives, and except for the ones who just married recently, all the others have be grandmothers or great-grandmothers. She was the only one. None of her children had gotten married."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Mother, I am still thinking about building a foundation."

    "Hehe"

    Zhuang Rong rolled her eyes, thinking that was a silly statement. Lin Jiang was almost fifty and only had reached the fourth level of Qi Refining. How could he build any foundations?

    "Really, in a maximum of five years, I will reach the fifth level of Qi Refining."

    "Once you pass sixty, everything stops. Your sister is not even thirty yet and already building a foundation. You, on the other hand, should take advantage of your fertility and have a few children. I will take care of them for you."

    "Ahem, I see that Shadiao has brought back some prey. I''ll go check it out."

    Lin Jiang immediately found an excuse to leave. Zhuang Rong had put aside the idea of Lin Jiang getting married a few years ago, but it had resurfaced and she seemed even more determined now.

    Unfortunately, Lin Jiang''s reputation as the shame of the Lin family was too well-known. Even though he owned an estate, he couldn''t find any cultivators as potential marriage partners. This made Zhuang Rong angry; she didn''t want Lin Jiang''s wife to be a mortal, nor did she want their future children to be mortals. Mortals had a miserable life in the world of cultivators.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16

    At the Lin family''s entrance gate, the Zhou family''s ancestor Zhou Quan, along with a talented person named Zhou Zilin, and a younger member, were discussing matters with Lin Batian. This time, Zhou Quan came to the Lin family to propose marriage.

    The Lin and Zhou families used to have a period of harmony. During that time, five female cultivators from the Zhou family married into the Lin family, but no one from the Lin family married into the Zhou family. The Zhou family felt it was unfair because female cultivators were also important resources. When cultivators and cultivators joined together, there was a high chance of having descendants with Spiritual Roots, especially if the Spiritual Roots were strong.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you are also aware of our family''s Yumin. He just turned forty-five this year, and his cultivation level is already in the mid-stage of Foundation Building. Yumin is from the main branch of the Zhou family and his lineage is legitimate. It is sufficient for him to marry Lin Ying. In order to show sincerity, we are willing..."

    Zhou Quan pointed at the young member with confidence. This person''s name was Zhou Yumin, and he was one of the outstanding younger members of the Zhou family. At forty-five years old, he had already reached the mid-stage of Foundation Building and has Double Spiritual Roots.

    Zhou Quan came this time to propose marriage for him. He wished to marry Lin Ying. Originally, Zhou Quan wanted Yumin Zhou to marry the third eldest, Lin Die, but Lin Die had a cold personality, unlike the lively and adorable Lin Ying, whom Yumin preferred.

    The Zhou family also believed that they came with sincerity. If the Lin family agreed, they were willing to offer a generous dowry, including spirit stones, spiritual herbs, elixirs, cultivation techniques, and more. They were also willing to integrate resources with the Lin family.

    However, Zhou Quan didn''t notice that Lin Batian''s expression was already very ugly. Deep down, Lin Batian despised the idea of marriage alliances. He was the founder of the Lin family and a generation of powerhouses. In his opinion, everything the Lin family needed could be gained through force and strength, but not by using women as bargaining chips. If a family needed to exchange women for benefits, then that family was nothing but weak andcked integrity.

    "Steward Wu, please bring Lin Ying here."

    Lin Batian didn''t immediately blow up. Instead, he sent Steward Wu to call for Lin Ying. If Lin Ying liked this Yumin Zhou, then he would agree, but if she didn''t, then he would be sorry.Soon, Lin Ying arrived in the living room with the guidance of Steward Wu. Lin Batian exined why the Zhou family hade and then asked Lin Ying if she would like to marry Zhou Yumin.

    "Getting married? Dad, I won''t get married."

    Lin Ying was shocked and immediately declined. Despite being in her forties, she still held on to a childlike mindset. She spent her days practicing her magic and visiting her brother for fun. She enjoyed her carefree life and saw no reason to get married.

    "Miss Lin, our son Yumin is also here. He is the legitimate heir of our Zhou family. If you marry him, you won''t suffer."

    Zhou Quan''s face turned dark. Lin Ying''s rejection was so straightforward that it showed no regard for their feelings.

    "Is the legitimate heir very powerful?"

    Lin Ying questioned. In the Lin family, the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate was quite blurry, especially since they were a newly established n. Even for the second or third generation, the distinction was practically nonexistent.

    It usually took several generations for a n to establish a clear distinction between legitimate and illegitimate. When a n''s development was not fast enough and the cake was not big enough, then they had to consider how to divide the cake.

    Currently, the Lin family had a positive and upward mindset. The strength of their n was continually growing, and both legitimate and illegitimate members could obtain satisfactory results. Naturally, this distinction was not emphasized.

    "You..."

    Zhou Quan became extremely angry upon hearing this and was about to scold Lin Ying, but Lin Batian spoke up.

    "My Taoist friend Zhou, you saw it too. If Lin Ying doesn''t want to get married, then let''s forget about this."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, it wouldn''t be a loss for me to form an alliance with my Zhou family."

    "Whether it''s a loss or not doesn''t matter. Getting married is about mutual willingness. If she doesn''t want to, why force it? A forced melon is not sweet, isn''t it?"

    "Have you thought it through, Taoist Friend Lin?"

    "Yes, I have."

    Lin Batian''s gaze became even colder. Can''t you tell that he is getting impatient?

    "Alright, alright! The Lin family''s threshold is too high, and our Zhou family can''t climb up. Hmph!"

    Zhou Quan snorted and left in a huff, followed closely by Zhou Zilin and Zhou Yumin.

    "Father, I..."

    "No need to say more. Go back to practice. I, Lin Batian, would never use my daughter for personal gain."

    "Thank you, Father. Then I''ll go."

    Lin Ying, carefree and oblivious to the significance behind this, quickly ran away.

    "Master, it seems that the Lin and Zhou families are going to break apart."

    As Lin Ying left, Steward Wu emerged from the corner and said to Lin Batian.

    "If they want to break apart, let them. I''ve had enough. Old Wu, find a pretext for the Zhou family to make the first move, and I''ll annihte them."

    "Master, Zhou Zilin has already advanced to the golden core stage. You..."

    "It''s okay, let''s do it together."

    "Over there..."

    "Yun State is a remote ce where nobody cares."

    Lin Batian said lightly, "The cultivation world in Yun State is already a remote ce, and where they are is even more remote. Who would care about a mere golden core family?"

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Zhou family wants to marry Lin Ying, it''s really unfortunate."

    Lin Jiang heard about Zhou family wanting to marry Lin Ying at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi and thought it was unfortunate.

    Because Zhou family had a bad reputation, outwardly they bullied the weak and even had incidents of n members robbing independent cultivators. Furthermore, the big Zhou family had plenty of dirty secrets and a lot of shady things going on internally. Lin Jiang didn''t like the Zhou family.

    "Zhou family is indeed not good, in this aspect your father did a great job, standing up for himself."

    Zhuang Rong nodded as Lin Batian married four daughters, none of whom were brought for marriage but were found by the daughters themselves, regardless of their wealth. Zhuang Rong admired this.

    "However, the Lin and Zhou families are on the verge of breaking apart. Within twenty years, it is certain that there will be a fierce battle between the two families."

    "Jiang''er, isn''t itmon for proposals to be unsessful? It''s not such a serious matter, right?"

    "This matter has nothing to do with it. It''s purely about interests. The Lin family has no small forces around us anymore, and the Zhou family is slightly weaker. In addition to the incident with the Iron Wood Demon Wolf in previous years, Father is holding a grudge. Mark my words, Zhou Quan''s passing might be a signal."

    Lin Jiang analyzed that the Lin family expanded too quickly in previous years, leaving many territories unmanaged. Over the years, with the growth of the Lin family''s second and third generations, they had gainedplete control. Now, the Lin family was about to embark on another expansion.

    Due to their past conflicts over the Iron Wood Demon Wolf, the Zhou family was trying to anger Lin Batian again by relying on Zhou Zilin''s recent attainment of Golden Core, hoping to marry Lin Ying.

    Why did angering Lin Batian matter? First, Lin Batian had a strong temperament and never arranged marriages for his children. Second, the Lin family had few individuals in the Foundation Building Period. Did the Zhou family really think they could take away the Lin family''s Foundation Building daughter? It was a delusion to weaken the Lin family''s power. From Lin Batian''s perspective, this was likely a scheme from the Zhou family, and it was bound to provoke his anger.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhou Quan didn''t have much time left in his life, and it was unknown how many years he had left. However, if he died, it was very likely that the two families would take action. With Lin Batian''s character, once things escted, it would end in a battle to the death, and one family was bound to perish.

    "Jiang''er, if things really escte, please don''t go."

    "At that time I had no control over it, but with my limited abilities, I suppose my father would not be impressed."

    Lin Jiang jokingly said, "There are quite a few Qi Refining cultivators at the fourth level in the Lin family. At least twenty or thirty. One more won''t make much difference, and one less won''t make much of a change. I don''t even know if Lin Batian would find me worthy."

    Late at night, Lin Jiang closed his eyes and pondered about the future. He foresaw a conflict between the Lin family and the Zhou family before Zhuang Rong''s ascension. There was a high possibility of him being called upon to fight for the family. He realized he needed to change his ns as he couldn''t just die there.

    "Upgrade equipment, practice realbat."

    After much contemtion, Lin Jiang devised a n. He couldn''t immediately improve his cultivation level, but he could upgrade his equipment and strengthen hisbat skills to develop a sense of battle awareness.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17

    The wastnd was the term used by cultivators to refer to the area inhabited by demonic beasts. The area west of the Lin family''s mountain gate, spanning over a thousand miles, fell under the category of wastnd. Besides cultivators hunting demonic beasts, there was no human presence here. Mortals could not survive in this ce due to the poisonous insects and toxic miasma. Even for cultivators, survival was not easy.

    At this moment, several young members of the Lin family were hunting an Iron-armored Cattle demonic beast. Among low-level demonic beasts, the Iron-armored Cattle was the most valuable. Its tendons could be used to craft bow and arrow spiritual tools, its hide could be refined into armor, and its horns were incredibly sharp. Even the meat of the beast was highly valued for its delicious tastepared to other demonic creatures.

    The earnings from a single Iron-armored Cattle would not be less than thirty spirit stones. This ie was already quite significant, as there were independent cultivators who didn''t earn thirty spirit stones in a whole year.

    "Lin Baocheng, Lin Baoyi, hold back the Iron-armored Cattle. Hurry, don''t let the Iron-armored Cattle get close to me."

    The Lin family members worked together seamlessly. One person tookmand while the other two stepped forward to restrain the Iron-armored Cattle. The Iron-armored Cattle wasrge in size and slow in reaction. They constantly harassed the Iron-armored Cattle, forcing it to continually charge at the Lin family members. But as soon as itunched its attack, one person quickly fled and the other person attacked it from behind again.

    The real killer move was for the three people inmand. Each person held a powerful bow, not an ordinary one but a genuine magical weapon. The arrows shot from the bow were strong enough to prate boulders.

    "Bang."

    Lin Baosheng shot another arrow, hitting the Iron-armored Cattle''s neck, almost piercing through it. This made Lin Baosheng exim in surprise. With this kind of impact, the Iron-armored Cattle was almost done for.

    "The Iron-armored Cattle has gone mad, let it go."Lin Baosheng shouted loudly. The Iron-armored Cattle had a tenacious vitality. Even though it was covered in wounds, it didn''t die immediately. Instead, it went mad. Several tribe members quickly dodged and made way for the Iron-armored Cattle to escape. They just needed to follow behind it, and in no time, they would capture an Iron-armored Cattle.

    The rest of the group immediately obeyed Lin Baosheng''smand. They summoned flying swords one after another and hovered in the air. Low-level demon beasts, except for flying monsters, couldn''t fly. The Iron-armored Cattle roared at the group a few times and then fled in a panic.

    The group flew on their swords, chasing after the Iron-armored Cattle. asionally, they swooped down intimidatingly at the Iron-armored Cattle, making it speed up its escape and drain its life force faster.

    The strong Iron-armored Cattle charged through the jungle, knocking down countless towering trees. Before long, it crashed into a group of immortal cultivators who were hunting and killing monster beasts.

    "Oh no, it''s a raging Iron-armored Cattle!"

    The people noticed themotion caused by the Iron-armored Cattle and were filled with rm. They were in a critical moment of hunting and killing the monster beasts, and if the Iron-armored Cattle charged at them, not only would their mission be ruined, but there could also be casualties.

    "Jump up and avoid it!"

    The leader shouted and rushed towards the Iron-armored Cattle, aiming to slow its impact and create an opportunity for the others.

    "*Explosion sound*"

    The person took out a flying sword and thrust it into the bull''s head. The sword broke through the head but got stuck in the bone. Immediately, the Iron-armored Cattle collided with the person, sending him flying.

    "Big brother!"

    "Big brother!"

    The rest of the people were scared and screamed loudly. Someone caught the person who flew out, but he still coughed up blood and his chest caved in. He was seriously injured, so the others immediately took out a life-saving potion and gave it to him.

    "Boom"

    Perhaps this blow had exhausted thest bit of life from the Iron-armored Cattle. Its enormous body copsed with a loud crash, and its eyes closed forever.

    "People from the Lin family"

    "People from the Zhou family"

    Lin Baosheng and the others caught up and saw the people from the Zhou family. Their expressions changed.

    In the past few years, Zhou Yumin''s proposal to marry Lin Ying was unsessful, and the connection between the two families weakened again. They hardly evermunicated anymore. Meeting at this moment was extremely awkward.

    "We killed this Iron-armored Cattle, so we''ll take it and leave."

    Lin Baosheng didn''t want to get into a conflict with the people from the Zhou family. He was ready to take the Iron-armored Cattle and leave. The wilderness was full of dangers, and now that the Iron-armored Cattle had lost a lot of blood, it could easily attract other beasts.

    "Stop, who says the Iron-armored Cattle belongs to you?"

    "What do you mean? Didn''t you see the arrow on the neck of the Iron-armored Cattle? It''s my Lin family''s armor-piercing arrow, with the Lin family''s mark on it."

    "Hmph, I saw it, but have you seen the flying sword on the head of the Iron-armored Cattle? It belongs to my third brother. Plus, your actions have ruined our hunt. Our prey has escaped. How do you exin that?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "Take away your arrows, but leave the Iron-armored Cattle aspensation for my third brother."

    The people from the Zhou family spoke angrily. They were furious because their hunting was about to seed, but now it was ruined. The prey had escaped, and their Third Brother was seriously injured. They couldn''t let it go like this.

    "Fuck you! You''re not capable of hunting monsters, so you want to steal from us?"

    Lin Baocheng immediately cursed. He had a fiery temper, and a few years ago, the Zhou family had killed someone from his Lin family. One of those people was his own father. He had a deep hatred for the Zhou family, and now he was exploding with anger.

    "How dare you curse at me?"

    "What''s wrong with scolding you? You worthless coward! Besides harming others behind their backs, you only know how to steal from others, right?"

    "Exactly! Such a person still wants to marry my Aunt Ten. Pah! They don''t even look in the mirror to see what they look like."

    "Oh, it''s like that saying about a toad..."

    "The toad wants to eat swan meat."

    "Haha, exactly, just like a toad."

    The people from the Lin family unleashed their anger, mocking fiercely. They despised the Zhou family for betraying them, and they were infuriated when Zhou Yumin came to propose.

    Lin Batian, as the head of the Lin family, was very proud. He refused to have his daughter married off, and his descendants inherited his arrogance. They believed that Zhou Yumin was not worthy of Lin Ying and dared to suggest a marriage alliance, which meant they thought the Lin family men needed to trade women for benefits.

    The people from the Zhou family, all young and full of fire, were already exploding with anger upon hearing these words. Their blood boiled, and without caring much, their spiritual power flickered and a flying sword stabbed towards Lin Baocheng.

    "Watch out, Lin Baocheng!"

    Lin Baoyi was shocked and pushed Lin Baocheng away, but the flying sword still cut his arm.

    "Gosh, dare toy a hand on me!"

    "Let''s go all out!"

    "Kill!"

    When the people from the Lin family saw that the people from the Zhou family dared to attack, they immediately fought back. In an instant, flying swords were unleashed and both sides began to fight fiercely.

    The people from the Zhou family suffered a great loss. The leader of the Zhou family was their eldest brother, who had reached theter stage of Qi Refining. But at this moment, he was heavily injured and unconscious. Not only did he lose his formidablebat power, but he also needed someone to take care of him. On the other hand, in the Lin family, Lin Baoyi was also in theter stage of Qi Refining, but he had no burdens to worry about.

    "Call for help!"

    Seeing that the people from the Zhou family couldn''t hold on any longer, they immediately shouted for help. Someone activated the Zhou family''s Soul Card, and the nearby members of the Zhou family received the message right away.

    "Let''s call for help too, let''s not be at a disadvantage."

    Lin Baoyi said that and immediately activated the Lin family''s Soul Card. Both families rely on hunting monsters as their main source of ie, so there must be many elders from both families nearby.

    "You thief, dare to kill someone from my Zhou family! You''re asking for trouble!"

    An elder from the Zhou family in the Foundation Building Period arrived first. When he arrived, he saw a member of the Zhou family being killed by Lin Baosheng. He became extremely angry and immediately summoned a flying sword to attack from a distance of hundreds of meters.

    "Boom!"

    Lin Baosheng was severely injured with one blow. The shield in his hand shattered, and he was sent flying. After spitting out a mouthful of blood, he fainted.

    "Lin Baosheng"

    "Run fast!"

    The remaining members of the Lin family saw the Foundation Building elder from the Zhou family in the arriving, so they immediately scattered and fled with the heavily injured Lin Baosheng.

    "Uncle Five, don''t let them go. They killed Sixth Brother."

    Someone from the Zhou family was shouting loudly. In the recent fight, someone from the Zhou family had already been killed.

    "Killing."

    The head of the Zhou family, decided to be a killer. They themselves look down on the Lin family. You see, the Zhou family had been around for hundreds of years, while the Lin family hadn''t even reached a hundred. Currently, the Zhou family had two people with Golden Cores, while the Lin family only had one. In their eyes, the Lin family was just a nouveau riche, while they were the big family.

    Now, with the conflict between the Lin family and the Zhou family, someone had died. So why not go all out and destroy the arrogant Lin family.

    "Aunt, aunt, help!"

    The fleeing members of the Lin family saw someone flying towards them in the distance and became overjoyed, desperately seeking help.

    "St."

    Upon seeing Lin Dieing to kill, the head of the Zhou family not only didn''t stop but instead increased their attack. One move and Lin Baocheng was beheaded, almostpletely losing half of his body. He definitely wouldn''t survive.

    "How dare you!"

    Lin Die''s eyes turned red immediately. She belonged to the Lin family''s second generation. These third generation members were her own children and grandchildren. They were usually very filial to her. Watching her own children and grandchildren die in front of her, Lin Die felt like she was going crazy. A surge of anger rushed from her lower abdomen to her forehead.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Kill!"

    Lin Die angrily shouted and her flying sword soared into the air. However, her sword was easily knocked down.

    But Lin Die didn''t mind. Lin Batian''s most famous skill was the Overlord Spear. And the Lin family''s children had been learning spear techniques since they were young. Spear techniques were her specialty.

    Lin Die took out a red long spear. She flicked the tip of the spear and knocked away the flying sword from the Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator. Then, quickly approaching, her long spear was like a dragon, enveloping the Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator with shining starlight.

    The expression on the Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator changed drastically. He summoned a shield to block, but after only a few attempts, Lin Die punctured it and sent it flying.

    "Boom!"

    In the next moment, before the Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator could recall the flying sword, Lin Die had already pierced through his protective energy. The spear tip prated his lower abdomen. With a twist of her wrist, the spear tip came out from the other side of his body, and Lin Die lifted the entire Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator into the air.

    "Crack!"

    Lin Die shook her hand, and the Zhou family''s Foundation Building cultivator shattered entirely. Bathed in the enemy''s blood, Lin Die looked extremely terrifying.

    "Leave none alive, kill."

    Lin Diemanded coldly, looking at the corpses of the Lin family members. She had already lost her sanity. She wanted to avenge her children and nephews. Blood debts must be paid with blood.

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18

    The Lin family''s entrance gate, with Lin Baocheng''s body ced in front of all the Lin family members. Lin Baosheng and others were also severely injured and still unconscious. Whether they would survive or not remained uncertain.

    More and more people from the Lin family gathered, and the atmosphere grew increasingly tense. Lin Batian stood in front of everyone, silent. When most of the people had arrived, he slowly spoke, "The Lin family members were brutally killed by others. What do you suggest we do?"

    "Seek revenge."

    "Seek revenge."

    "Seek revenge."

    Almost all the people from the tribe were roaring angrily, with their murderous cries filling the sky. Lin Baocheng''s blood had provoked their senses.

    "Alright, seek revenge, Steward Wu."

    "Yes, Master."

    "Gather two flying vessels, we are going to annihte the Zhou family.""Master, please think twice before taking action."

    Steward Wu''s expression drastically changed. Although they had long nned to go to war with the Zhou family, things didn''t go ording to their ns. Where were their strategies and tactics?

    "Steward Wuг┐"

    Lin Batian''s face darkened as he sternly stared at him.

    "Yes."

    Steward Wu was afraid of Lin Batian''s power and didn''t dare to say much. He immediately gathered two flying boats from the Lin family''s warehouse.

    "Lin family children, young or old, those who are willing to fight with me, Lin Batian,e aboard the flying boats."

    Lin Batian spoke to everyone and then was the first to jump onto the flying boat.

    "Lin Shan is here and willing to fight alongside his father."

    Old Lin Shanughed heartily and was the second to jump onto the flying boat.

    "Lin Die is willing to fight alongside Dad."

    Lin Die was the third.

    "Lin Hai is willing to fight for Dad."

    "Lin Bowen has arrived."

    "бдбдбдбд"

    One by one, all the Lin family members who were cultivators boarded the flying ship, including the wives and concubines of those from the Lin family.

    "Set sail and attack the Zhou family!"

    Lin Batian shouted loudly as two flying ships started and slowly ascended.

    "The sixth son of the Lin family has arrived."

    Just then, a cry of surprise rang out and Lin Jiang also appeared. Lin Batian saw Lin Jiang, nodded at him, and then unleashed a spiritual force, pulling Lin Jiang onto the flying ship.

    The atmosphere on the flying ship was very silent, with Lin Jiang sweating profusely, panting heavily. He held two spirit stones in his hand, quickly absorbing the spiritual energy from them. He had just received the news and had been rushing desperately to get here.

    The conflict between the two realms waspletely unexpected for Lin Jiang. Initially, he thought the two families would wait until Zhou Quan''s passing before taking action, maybe in another twenty or thirty years. But he hadn''t expected that only three years had passed since thest time the Zhou family tried to propose to Lin Ying,pletely catching him off guard. Lin Jiang didn''t know what gave Lin Batian the confidence to face the two Golden Core cultivators directly.

    However, regardless of the circumstances, Lin Jiang had to join in this battle. He owed it to the Lin family. For the past few decades, he had been able to cultivate peacefully thanks to the protection of the Lin family. Without their shelter, he might have died long ago.

    The Lin and Zhou families were less than 2,000 miles apart. With the highest speed of their flying boats, it took them just over six hours for the Lin family to arrive near the entrance of the Zhou family.

    "Leader, what should we do next?"

    Steward Wu quietly asked Lin Batian,pletely bewildered. He had never been in a war like this before. What should they do next?

    "I will break through the Zhou family''s mountain defense formation at their entrance. You all follow and charge straight in, destroying everything in your path. Leave no one from the Zhou family alive. Wipe them outpletely."

    Lin Batian said calmly, taking out a golden long spear. Then, he disappeared into the flying boat.

    Lin Batian concealed his whereabouts and flew above the entrance of the Zhou family. At this moment, the Zhou family was also shocked by the sudden conflict. They never expected the Lin family to react so quickly andunch a relentless attack. They were still discussing how to gather their forces and fight against the Lin family.

    "Heaven Breaking Style"

    Lin Batian gathered his strength above the Zhou family, then shouted angrily. He poured his spiritual power into the long spear, causing a golden illusory image to manifest. This image transformed into a dragon and heavily crashed into the Zhou family''s entrance.

    "Boom"

    The protective formation at the Zhou family''s entrance shattered in response to the powerful spear, which crashed into the their gate.

    "Who?"

    "Enemy attack!"

    "Enemy attack!"

    Within the Zhou family''s gate, there were immediately two furious roars, followed by more screams from Zhou family members.

    "Lin family youths, follow me and attack!"

    Lin Shan shouted loudly from behind the flying boat, then stepped on a flying sword and rushed towards the Zhou family.

    "Kill the enemies!"

    Lin Die, Lin Ying, and Steward Wu, along with seven other Foundation Building cultivators, were faster than Lin Shan. They were able to fly using their physical bodies, and their spiritual senses could extend several hundred meters. The distance their spiritual senses could reach was also the range at which they could control the flying swords in mid-air.

    From a few hundred meters away, Lin Die and the others'' flying swords have already reached inside the mountain gate. The flying swords swept across, and the heads of Zhou family Qi Refining Period members flew out.

    "Lin Batian, how dare you, thief!"

    "Lin Batian, if I don''t kill you, I swear not to be human."

    Zhou Quan and Zhou Zilin had flown high into the sky and were attacking Lin Batian from both sides.

    On the ground, Lin Jiang''s speed could only be described as ordinary. It wasn''t that he couldn''t fly fast, but he was keeping hisposure and didn''t dare to be at the forefront. The vanguard died quickly.

    Lin Jiang quickly found his opponent. In the battles among cultivators, most of the time they would find opponents of simr strength when the numbers allowed for it. The situation of one side greatly overpowering the other was unlikely, because everyone hoped that there would be fewer casualties on their side, rather than sacrificing someone.

    Lin Jiang''s opponent was also a Zhou family descendant in the middle stage of Qi Refining Period. During the mid-stage of Qi Refining Period, their spiritual consciousness could only extend about ten meters, and the control range of flying swords was small. So, most of them still relied on holding their swords. It was only after reaching the Foundation Building Period that their spiritual consciousness could extend a few hundred meters, and then they could fight like cultivators.

    Lin Jiang was holding a long spear. There was no need to be surprised; it was amon practice for Lin family descendants to train with spears. It wasn''t mandatory, but everyone had epted it, and Lin Jiang naturally did the same.

    "Go!"

    But Lin Jiang''s spear skills were just a distraction. In the instant that the enemy''s flying sword swung aside, Lin Jiang instantly activated over a dozen low-grade first-tier spiritual talismans.

    Even the best low-grade first-tier spiritual talisman could only deliver a full-force strike equivalent to the third level of Qi Refining. It wasn''t a significant threat to someone in the mid-stage of Qi Refining. However, this was still a diversion. The true deadly move was the silver needle hidden by Lin Jiang, which he had purchased from Anhua City.

    "Plop"

    Before the Zhou family members could react, a silver needle had already been inserted into his temple. Everything went ck before him, and he lost his life.

    "Sixth Uncle, well done!"

    The Lin family members couldn''t believe how brave Lin Jiang was. He killed the enemy in just one move, and they all cheered.

    "The viin is using underhanded tricks, be careful of the needle-shaped weapon!"

    The Zhou family members quickly realized what was happening and immediately strengthened their defenses, making it difficult for Lin Jiang tounch a surprise attack.

    "I''ll use money to crush you!"

    Lin Jiang yelled loudly. He had hundreds of magical amulets in his hands. He was a skilled Talisman Maker and had brought all the amulets he had saved up over the years. They were worth a lot of money, but Lin Jiang wanted to spend them all.

    The members of the Zhou family were extremely frightened in the face of this ruthless and brutal attack. They had no ce to retreat and had no choice but to bravely face it.

    At the same time, the battle in the sky became intense. Lin Batian fought against two opponents and held his ground without falling behind. Instead, he managed to suppress the two of them.

    Zhou Quan''s lifespan was less than ten years. He was weak and his strength had declined by sixty percentpared to his prime. On the other hand, Zhou Zilin was a neer who had be a Golden Core practitioner less than ten years ago. Faced with Lin Batian, he struggled greatly.

    Lin Batian held a long spear and continuously thrust it forward, deflecting the flying swords of the two opponents. He was skilled in closebat, while the two opponents intentionally kept their distance to prevent Lin Batian from getting close.

    However, Lin Batian remained calm. He had already mastered the rhythm of the battle. He was simply looking for an opportunity. With just one chance, he could defeat his enemies.

    After a few dozen moves, Zhou Quan exposed a w first. He was weakened by his declining strength and had a gap in his defense. Lin Batian seized the opportunity and pierced through his protective energy with his spear, stabbing him in the chest. Lin Batian''s spiritual power then surged into his body along the length of the spear.

    "Ancestor."

    "Back Thrust!"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhou Zilin witnessed Zhou Quan''s demise and became greatly concerned. He dashed forward, and Lin Batian swiftly executed a Back Thrust with his spear, piercing towards Zhou Zilin.

    Lin Batian''s spear attack was very strong. Zhou Zilin tried to strike Lin Batian''s long spear with his sword, but Lin Batian''s spear easily knocked his flying sword away and pierced through his protective barrier, hitting Zhou Zilin.

    "We will die together."

    Zhou Zilin was just as fierce. He grabbed hold of Lin Batian''s long spear with one hand and controlled his flying sword with his consciousness, stabbing towards Lin Batian.

    "Useless."

    Lin Batian scornfully said, then he raised his hand and released a powerful palm strike, sending Zhou Zilin''s flying sword flying away. He then twisted the tail of his spear, causing Zhou Zilin''s body to twist and crack, just like Lin Die''s previous attack.

    "The ancestor is dead."

    "The ancestor is dead."

    The battle between the Golden Cores was the focus of everyone''s attention. The people from the Zhou family saw their two Golden Cores being killed and their morale instantly dropped to freezing point. Theypletely copsed, and some people realized the situation was bad and started to escape.

    "Kill them all for me."

    Lin Batian killed Zhou Quan and Zhou Zilin, without hesitation, he immediately moved towards the Zhou family''s Foundation Building. This battle was to wipe out the entire family, he didn''t want to leave anyone alive.

    "Zhou family is finished."

    Zhou family n leader Zhou Ziming witnessed this scene, he screamed in anger; Zhou family was finished, everything was finished.

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 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19

    Hurry.

    Hurrying to the extreme.

    From conflicts erupting in the wilderness, to the Lin familyunching a direct attack, annihting the Zhou family, this all happened in less than a day.

    In just one day, a Golden Core family that had been passed down for hundreds of years waspletely wiped out by the Lin family. When the news spread, the surrounding ns couldn''t believe it.

    "Is the Zhou family made of y, easily crumbling?"

    "Lin Batian is unexpectedly strong!"

    The surrounding families were full of doubts. One doubted the Zhou family''s strength. It was a family that had been passed down for hundreds of years, and they still had two powerful Golden Core Period members. How did they lose so easily?

    Another doubted Lin Batian''s strength. He was able to defeat two opponents at once, and they couldn''t even escape. How did Lin Batian do it?

    Regardless of what others were saying, the Lin family was already pursuing and hunting down the remaining enemies from the Zhou family. The Zhou family''s main gate had only half of their total strength. The rest of their members were spread out across different ces, such as mines, spirit mountains, and shops. The distribution of members for each family was simr.Lin Batian took the main force of the Lin family and left, leaving some members behind to guard the prisoners at the Zhou family''s main gate. Lin Jiang was one of them. He wasn''t very interested in killing and would rather stay.

    Also staying behind were Lin Die and Steward Wu. Steward Wu took some people to clean up the battlefield, mainly to search for valuables, while Lin Die was in charge of ensuring safety, afraid that the Zhou family might retaliate forcefully.

    "Sixth Brother, are you injured?"

    Lin Die approached Lin Jiang and saw that he was covered in blood. She couldn''t help but worry and asked.

    "I''m not injured, it''s all because of the enemy''s magic. My mother made this dress with silk from silkworms, and it''s threeyers thick."

    Lin Jiang grinned, even though he was hit by the enemy several times, he wasn''t actually hurt. The clothes made from Zhuang Rong''s special silkworms were very strong, so he wore threeyers of them with a soft armor underneath. The enemy couldn''t even break through his basic defense.

    "That''s good."

    "Third Sister, are you hurt?"

    "Just a small injury, it''ll be fine in a couple of days. I''m used to it."

    "You worked hard, Third Sister."

    "It wasn''t really hard, but this battle was truly satisfying. The Zhou family is so hated by everyone."

    Lin Die said, ever since the Zhou family betrayed the Lin family a few years ago, she had been angry. This time, when the Zhou family dared to attack and kill members of the Lin family first, it made her even more furious. It was through this bloodshed that she could release her anger.

    "After this battle, the Lin family should stop expanding, right?"

    "We can''t expand for now, our territory is too big and we can''t manage it."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Die said, the poption of the Lin family is still too small. So far, there are less than one hundred immortal cultivators in the Lin family, and the backbone is still those recruited guest cultivators. Many territories can only be rented to independent cultivators. Now, if we merge with the Zhou family, the power of the Lin family will be more scattered.

    This was very dangerous. If the enemy used guerri warfare and ambushes against the Lin family, the Lin family wouldn''t be able to keep up. They could only passively endure attacks or be exhausted from running around. That was also why Lin Batian and the others needed to eliminate the remaining enemies, to prevent them from growing stronger.

    "Yeah, we can''t handle it anymore."

    "Old Sixteen is already married. Sixth Brother, don''t you want to get married?"

    "Third Sister, aren''t you the same?"

    "I can''t get married. There''s no one to marry."

    Lin Die said she was already in theter stage of Foundation Building. Lin Batian wouldn''t allow her to marry someone outside the Lin family easily, otherwise, the loss to the Lin family would be too great. If it was a marriage proposal, it was also difficult because ordinary people were not attractive to her, and the outstanding ones wouldn''t choose to marry into the Lin family. So she could only dy it.

    "I can''t get married either. Mortals don''t interest me, and female cultivators don''t find me attractive. Haha, let''s not get married then."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly. Among the Lin family''s second generation, only him, Lin Die, and Lin Ying were not married. The rest of the people were already grandparents. Eldest Brother Lin Shan and second brother Lin He were already married, and their grandchildren were about to arrive.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "The fifth daughter-inwmitted suicide."

    "The thirteenth daughter-inw alsomitted suicide."

    "The first family''s second daughter-inw, the second family''s eldest daughter-inw, and the seventh family''s daughter-inw have run away."

    Five dayster, Lin Jiang, who was still at the Zhou family''s entrance, received news from his family. These five people were all daughters of Zhou family, but Lin family had already wiped out Zhou family, and this was a grudge beyond avenging their fathers, which made some of the Zhou family''s daughters choose to run away from home and some choose tomit suicide.

    "This is truly a tragedy."

    Lin Jiang sighed, feeling the despair of those five Zhou family women, which was terrifying.

    "This is not a tragedy, but a necessary choice in life. From the moment they married into the Lin family, from the moment their natal family and Lin family became enemies, they had to make this choice."

    "Lin Die, this is too cruel for them. On one side are their father, siblings, and on the other side is their husband and children."

    "What if our Lin family loses?"

    Lin Die questioned, "If the Lin family loses, how would they choose?"

    "I don''t know, I can''t imagine such a scene."

    "So this might be one of the reasons why Dad didn''t arrange a marriage for us. Marriage is chosen by parents and the family for us. If we choose our own, we have to take responsibility, right? You said it yourself, adults should be responsible for their own choices."

    "Let''s not talk about this. When will Dad and the otherse back?"

    Lin Jiang promptly stopped this topic, it was too philosophical, and he didn''t want to discuss it.

    "It should be soon. The Zhou family is weak elsewhere, so we just need to crush them directly."

    "That''s good, I want to go back to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi."

    "Okay then."

    Lin Die didn''t take the opportunity to educate Lin Jiang this time. If Lin Jiang was still a young person and would continue to explore the world in the future, she would sternly ask Lin Jiang to stay and deal with more cruel things, which was something that cultivators must face.

    But when she thought about Lin Jiang''s age and cultivation level, she didn''t have such high demands anymore. In her opinion, this was how Lin Jiang''s life would be, so there was no need to force Lin Jiang to go through anything. It was better for Lin Jiang to take good care of his mother and live a good life.

    After a few more days, Lin Batian finally returned. After counting the casualties, in this battle, four members of the Lin family died, six elders were injured, and more than twenty people were wounded. However, theypletely defeated hundreds of people from the Zhou family.

    Lin Batian had already nned the territory of the Zhou family. The important areas were directly upied and guarded by the Lin family. The remaining areas were divided among the Lin family''s elders. Some of the elders had been with the Lin family for decades, loyal and dedicated. Most of them were married with children and had their own families. They could establish their own small family in the future.

    But these families had to show their loyalty to the Lin family. They had to contribute some of their profits to the Lin family every year, like protection fees.

    As for the remaining territories, they were rented to independent cultivators for cultivation. They just needed to pay rent every year. After arranging everything, Lin Batian returned to the Lin family''s gate with arge number of spoils of war.

    Lin Batian already knew about the Zhou family women''s situation. He didn''t have much to say about it. Even if they didn''tmit suicide or run away, they wouldn''t be able to live in the Lin family in the future. Lin Batian might not kill them, but he would definitely send them away.

    Lin Batian held a simple celebration banquet, and then Lin Jiang returned to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He still liked the pastoral life at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    One monthter, Lin Jiang received a gift from the Lin family. Lin Batian gave him a flying sword, ten Qi Gathering Pills, five Energy Nourishing Pills, and three hundred spirit stones. The total value exceeded two thousand spirit stones. In addition, Lin Jiang''s monthly sry was increased to five spirit stones, allowing him to earn sixty spirit stones in a year.

    This was considered smallpared to Lin Die and Lin Ying, who received a reward of a spiritual mountain. The scale was no smaller than the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, and they could manage it themselves. They would have ie every year, which was a long-term benefit.

    This clearly showed the profits gained by the Lin family in this battle. It was definitely a windfall, as they acquired all of Zhou family''s wealth umted over hundreds of years.

    "The ancient saying is true, the most profitable are the ones written in thew."

    Lin Jiang sighed at this. No wonder Lin Batian was so eager to expand. The profits from expansion were indeed the greatest. If one had to work hard and manage everything, it would require so much time and effort.

    This ughter also strengthened Lin Jiang''s determination to live in a big city in the future. The cultivation world had no such thing asw, but a big city had its own set of rules. At least, there wouldn''t be such tant killing. Only then could he survive through his weaker years.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20

    Time flew by, and Lin Jiang reached the age of sixty. He finally reached the fifth level of Qi Refining.

    On this day, Lin Jiang received news from the gate of the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. Eldest Brother Lin Shan was in critical condition. Lin Jiang hurriedly flew on his sword and arrived at the Lin family''s gate.

    In front of Lin Shan''s house, many members of the Lin family gathered. Lin Shan''s children were all gathering in the yard. Suddenly, Lin Jiang thought of Lin Baohua from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi and wondered if he should bring him over.

    But in the end, Lin Jiang gave up. Lin Shan hadn''t seen Lin Baohua for decades. Perhaps in Lin Shan''s heart, he had already let go of this child.

    "The master is here."

    Someone shouted, and Lin Jiang looked up to see Lin Batian walking quickly.

    Lin Batian, amidst the onlookers, approached Lin Shan. Now 91 years old, Lin Shan was too old to get out of bed. He had lost most of his hair and almost all of his teeth.

    "Father, Shan''er can''t be with you anymore."

    Lin Shan saw Lin Batian and tears filled his eyes. He was too old to want to see anyone, yet Lin Batian was still in the prime of his life."Is there anything else you want to say? Father is listening."

    Lin Batian ced a hand on Lin Shan''s shoulder, and pure spiritual power flowed into his body. Lin Shan suddenly felt rejuvenated, and a flush of color appeared on his pale, waxen face.

    Lin Batian felt very sad at this moment. Lin Shan was his first child. He still remembered the excitement he felt when he saw Lin Shan being born. His love for his children, half of it was on Lin Shan. But as more children came, he never felt that same excitement again.

    "Dad, Shan''er is leaving. I won''t be able to see the Lin family anymore."

    "You will see them. I will bury you at the highest point of the mountain gate. In the future, you will see the Lin family. The Lin family will be stronger and be the most powerful family in Yun State."

    "I believe you, Dad. I trust you."

    "I will make it happen."

    Lin Batian said, feeling very conflicted. At the moment, he didn''t know what to say. He couldn''t find the right words to express his feelings. All he could do was let Lin Shan''s childrene in.

    Lin Shan''s wife had passed away a few years ago. His children had grown old. They were in their fifties or sixties, some even became grandparents.

    Lin Batian kept channeling his spiritual power, giving Lin Shan time to exin things to his children. Afterwards, his siblings came to see him.

    "Third sibling, tenth sibling, eighteenth sibling, I envy you so much."

    Lin Shan looked at his three younger brothers and sisters. In the Lin family''s second generation, there were now four people in the Foundation Building Period. Lin He, the second child, had always been in Anhua City and could not leave. Only the third, tenth, and eighteenth siblings were with him now.

    They were all in the Foundation Building Period, even if they were already in their seventies or eighties, they still maintained their youth. They looked like they were only in their twenties or thirties. Their youthful appearance made Lin Shan very envious.

    "Birth, old age, illness, and death aremon for humans. If you can''t achieve immortality, you will never be truly free."

    Lin Die quietly said, and Lin Batian nodded beside her. Cultivators always prioritized immortality. Family, sects, territories, and resources, everything was in service of immortality.

    "Big brother..."

    Lin Ying choked up a bit, not knowing what to say. The age gap between her and Lin Shan was quiterge, a difference of thirty-four years. But Lin Shan was a good big brother who took care of his younger siblings.

    Lin Jiang stood by silently, not saying anything. In his heart, there was only infinite sighs. The system showed that he still had over thirteen thousand years of lifespan left, and it was increasing at a rate of more than three hundred years per year. Lifespan was the cheapest thing for him since he had too much of it.

    But for others, lifespan was an incredibly precious thing. They strived to cultivate, to kill and snatch treasures, all to live longer.

    Two hourster, Lin Shan''s heartbeat stopped forever. The sound of crying echoed in Lin Shan''s house, and Lin Jiang quietly left the premises.

    Lin Shan''s funeral was held on a grand scale, with Lin Batian personally overseeing the arrangements. The news spread far and wide, and many friends of the Lin family sent their condolences.

    On the day of the funeral, Lin Batian not only took off his fancy clothes, but also wore rough mourning clothes. He said he would mourn for Lin Shan for three years. This puzzled not only the people from the Lin family, but also others who didn''t understand the tradition.

    Lin Batian exined that this was a custom from his hometown. When the eldest son of a family passed away while the parents were still alive, they must mourn for him for three years. During this time, both Lin Batian and his wife must wear mourning clothes to show their respect for Lin Shan.

    "Dad''s love for our eldest brother is truly enviable."

    The younger generations of the Lin family couldn''t help but feel envious. Lin Batian''s love for Lin Shan was genuine, and the younger they were, the less attention they received. It seemed like they had grown numb to it.

    "Where is Dad''s hometown?"

    Lin Jiang asked, but everyone shook their heads. They had never heard Lin Batian talk about his origins, only knowing that he was not from Yun State. Lin Batian had settled in this ce many years ago with Steward Wu and a few trustedpanions.

    "It seems like Dad also has a story to tell."

    Lin Jiang sighed and shook his head, deciding not to ask further. Everyone had their own story, and if Lin Batian didn''t want to share, they didn''t want to pry.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    After Lin Shan died, Zhuang Rong suddenly strongly requested to return to the Lin family''s mountain gate to live. She gave the reason that Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi was too quiet and she felt lonely there. On this side of the mountain gate, she still had a few sisters who were also getting old and wanted to stay with them.

    Lin Jiang fulfilled her request, and he also moved back and lived in the same courtyard as Zhuang Rong. Zhuang Rong used to have many servants, but now they have mostly been dismissed, leaving only one old servant who had been with her for decades. Lin Jiang stayed in the servants'' room.

    Lin Batian had a wife and fifteen concubines. The youngest one was already forty years old. He hadn''t taken any new concubines for many years, so he probably didn''t have the intention to anymore.

    Lin Batian''s legal wife, Mrs. Zheng, was already over a hundred years old, but she was at the Foundation Building Period realm and could still live for decades. She actually looked like she was only in her thirties or forties.

    Zhuang Rong was the fourth wife, but she and the second and third wives were all around the same age, about eighty years old. They had all be old women, and thepetition for favoritism in the harem was long gone. Back when they were young, they fought fiercely against each other, but now they were closer than real sisters.

    Lin Jiang entrusted Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi to Lin Baohua and his son. He returned to the mountain gate to take care of Zhuang Rong in her old age. Now he was also taking care of the other concubines together. Well, if one was taken care of, a group could also be taken care of.

    The lives of the elderly were very lonely. They didn''t need to take care of their children''s children and didn''t need to struggle for their livelihoods anymore. They had long given up on cultivation.

    In order to pass the time, Lin Jiang brought out ying cards and mahjong to teach them how to y games like "Eighty Points," "Landlord," and mahjong. He also hired some storytellers from the market in the Lin family to tell stories for them.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    When it came to food, Lin Jiang was very dedicated. No matter where within a thousand miles, if there was something special, Lin Jiang would have someone bring it back or even learn it himself, and then he would personally cook it for Zhuang Rong and the others.

    Lin Jiang also tried his best to recreate the cuisine from Earth. As long as he could find the ingredients, he would make it for them to eat.

    This attitude made Lin Batian''s other wives extremely envious. The previous animosity quickly dissipated, and they all came together to live theirter years. Even Lin Batian''s main wife was like this. She was already over a hundred years old, but her cultivation had always remained at the initial stage of Foundation Building. She had given up on cultivation and now, besides managing the Lin family''s women, had nothing else to do. So she often came over to chat and y cards with her sisters.

    Lin Jiang''s actions had also received praise from others. The Lin family''s second generation had alle to thank Lin Jiang, like the fifth one, Lin Hai, and the seventh one, Lin Feng. They even wanted to join Lin Jiang in their retirement, but Lin Jiang firmly refused.

    Are you kidding? Those few are aunts, from the previous generation. He only served them sincerely. You guys are just from the same generation, what''s the big deal? You still want him to support you in your old age?

    Lin Batian was more direct. He specially approved one hundred spirit stones each month for Lin Jiang, reimbursing all the expenses Lin Jiang spent on the aunts for their retirement. If it was not enough, he could go to the finance department to request more, and Lin Jiang could keep the rest for himself.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Time was merciless. In Lin Jiang''s fifth year back at the mountain gate, he bid farewell to his second aunt.

    In the seventh year, he bid farewell to his fifth and third aunts.

    In the tenth year, Aunty Seven and Aunty Six also left.

    In the twelfth year, ny-two-year-old Zhuang Rong entered the final chapter of her life, and Lin Jiang called for Lin Ying, who was in seclusion.

    "Mom, dad is here."

    Lin Batian also received news. Over the years, his wives passed away one after another, and his feelings were veryplicated. These women all had a beautiful past with him and had given birth to children for him.

    "I don''t want to see him."

    Zhuang Rong shook her head. In thest few years of her life, Zhuang Rong never wanted to see Lin Batian, and she even felt some hatred towards him.

    Zhuang Rong''s belief was that Lin Batian harmed her, wasting her youth in his harem and squandering her best years.

    "Jiang''er, if your mom doesn''t want to see me, then forget it. You apany her on her final journey."

    Lin Batian, standing outside the door, halted his steps and whispered to Lin Jiang. He couldn''t even bring himself to feel angry and genuinely felt that he owed these women.

    "Mom, dad won''te in."

    "Okay, here are mom''s belongings. Mom owns three stores, a mansion, and a lot of money. The stores and mansion will be given to Lin Ying in the future, and the money will be given to you, Jiang Er. Jiang Er doesn''t have much time left, so you must take care of yourself and not lose out, understand?"

    "Mom, I don''t want those things. I just want you to stay alive."

    Lin Ying hugged Zhuang Rong and started crying. She didn''t want any possessions, she just wanted her mom.

    "I understand, mom. The stores and mansion belong to my sister. I don''t have any children, so I won''t fight with her."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Fixed assets didn''t matter to him at all. After Zhuang Rong left, he wouldn''t have much time in the Lin family either. He would leave soon.

    "Good child, mom didn''t raise you for nothing. These past few decades have been the happiest days for mom."

    Zhuang Rong nodded with relief. The other sisters also left their belongings when they left, causing some unpleasantness among the younger generations, which made her very sad. Luckily, her own children wouldn''t be like that.

    In these years, Zhuang Rong had been enjoying her retirement at home without any worries. With her sisters by her side, it truly had been her happiest days.

    Zhuang Rong kept talking and talking. After an hour, she stopped breathing.

    "I don''t have a mother anymore."

    Lin Ying cried loudly, and Lin Jiang silently shed a row of tears, for he no longer had a mother.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21

    Zhuang Rong''s funeral was quicklypleted in a very grand manner, not only for Lin Jiang''s sake but also for Lin Ying''s.

    Lin Ying had already reached theter stages of Foundation Building. She and Lin Die were known as the Lin family''s twin beauties, and they were the most likely candidates to advance to the Golden Core Period. Lin Batian was very fond of them.

    After the funeral, Lin Jiang returned to the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi to bid farewell to the elderly Lin Baohua. The two of them had lived at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi for decades and had a deep bond.

    The Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi now belonged to Lin Ying, but she was unable to manage it herself. So, she agreed with Lin Jiang''s decision to keep things as they were, with Lin Baohua''s son in charge and most of the profits being handed over each year.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang took his personal belongings and two Shadiao with him, then returned to the entrance of the Lin family''s mountain to request from Lin Batian to guard the ancestral tomb. Lin Batian agreed immediately.

    On the northwest side of the entrance to the Lin family''s mountain, there was a forest, where dozens of graves were located. For nearly a hundred years since the founding of the Lin family, all cultivators had been buried here, while mortals didn''t have the qualifications.

    After Lin Jiang''s arrival, Lin Hai, the fifth brother, and Lin Feng, the seventh brother, also applied to Lin Batian to guard the tomb, which left Lin Jiang speechless. He hade here to avoid everyone, but now he couldn''t avoid them.

    However, the two brothers had valid reasons, as they wanted to guard their mother. Lin Jiang couldn''t refuse their request, so the three brothers ended up guarding the tomb together.Luckily, Fifth Brother and Seventh Brother were just like Lin Jiang, all over seventy years old and not very active anymore, so Lin Jiang didn''t care.

    The grave guardian''s life was very boring. Every day, Lin Jiang walked around the tomb, pulled out some weeds, added a handful of soil to the old graves, and the rest of the time was spent practicing, drawing symbols, and having fun with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    Lin Jiang had been raising Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao for decades. They were already adults and had grown extremelyrge. With their wings spread open, they were nearly ten meters long. They perched on Lin Jiang''s shoulders, enough to cover his head, so Lin Jiang didn''t allow them to stand on his shoulders anymore.

    Aurora Falcons were birds of prey, so Lin Jiang didn''t need to worry about their food. They could hunt on their own and even bring some surprises to Lin Jiang, such as killing some monsters. Lin Jiang could take their fur and sell it for money.

    "Sixth Brother, your Aurora falcon should be at the advanced first stage, right?"

    Seventh Brother Lin Feng looked at the two Shadiaos with envy. Having two pets to apany him in his old age was a wonderful thing. Unlike him, his wife had already passed away, and his son was busy with other things, leaving him alone.

    "Yes, they are at the advanced first stage. Their cultivation level is even higher than mine."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He had been practicing for over sixty years, but he was only at the sixth level of Qi Refining. The advanced first stage was equivalent to theter stage of Qi Refining.

    "Haha, it''s only a little better than me."

    "What''s the use of being so close, we''re basically guarding the tomb together."

    "Yeah, it''s a pity. I failed to break through the Building Foundation stage twice."

    Lin Feng said that he and Lin Hai were the same, both havingpleted the Qi Refining Stage perfectly. They had both attempted to break through to the Foundation Building Stage but failed.

    From this perspective, Lin Batian was a qualified father. As long as his children reached the perfectpletion of the Qi Refining Stage, regardless of their aptitude, he would find a way to get them a Foundation Building Pill to help them break through. Whether they seeded or not depended on their own destiny.

    This was something that other families couldn''t even dream of. One Foundation Building Pill cost at least twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones and could only be taken by those with good aptitude. Those with poor aptitude had to find their own solutions.

    "Where is the fifth brother?"

    "Hehe, Sixth Brother, guess."

    "Damn, don''t tell me he wants to steal my bar again."

    "Haha, you guessed it right."

    "You scoundrel, that was meant for Lin Ying! Shadiao, hurry up and bring them here!"

    Lin Jiang was furious, Old Five was such a jerk. Not long ago, he brought out his Peach Blossom Wine that he had been collecting for decades and gave it to him to drink. The guy got a little bit drunk and now he couldn''t stop craving for more.

    But Lin Jiang couldn''t bear to do it. He had been cherishing this wine for over forty years, and there wasn''t much left. It was truly meant for Lin Ying. But this guy had the nerve to steal his wine.

    With a chirp from Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, they flew into the woods. It didn''t take long for the ws to catch Lin Hai and bring him out. Lin Hai, old and weak, was no match for the Shadiaos.

    "Sixth Brother, let go of me, quickly, it hurts so much!"

    "Serves you right!"

    Lin Jiang cursed loudly, but Aurora Falcon was very understanding and had high intelligence. It wouldn''t actually harm Lin Hai, just make him suffer a bit.

    "Where''s my wine?"

    "I finished it."

    "How much did you drink?"

    "Just a small jar. Sixth Brother, don''t be so stingy. Lin Ying is a master at the Foundation Period. She doesn''t need your little bit of alcohol."

    "Get lost! If I catch you again, I''ll kill you."

    "Hehe,e on. I''m already eighty-one years old, I''ve lived enough, it doesn''t matter."

    Lin Hai shrugged his hands, acting tough. Who''s afraid of whom?

    "You''re amazing."

    Lin Jiang sighed, wondering if he could really fight this eighty-one-year-old man.

    "Sixth Brother, let me teach you how to deal with Fifth Brother. Next time Lin Yinges, you canin to Lin Ying and let her beat up his grandson. Fifth Brother loves his grandson the most."

    "Seventh Brother, damn it, you''re ying dirty."

    Lin Hai got upset when he heard this, and rushed over to hit Old Seventh. Old Seventhughed and ran away, and the two of them started chasing each other.

    Lin Jiang gave them a look of disdain, thinking they were acting like little kids.

    "Chirp chirp."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao also imitated them, looking down on them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Brother, how about staying here, or you cane to my ce."

    Lin Ying came to see Lin Jiang again. Before, she could visit her mother or her older brother, but now only her older brother was left.

    As Lin Ying spoke, she pulled out something from her bag. Before, she always made Lin Jiang treat her, but now it was the other way around. She always brought food for Lin Jiang to eat.

    "Fifth brother, seventh brother, stop eating! Don''t you realize how old you are? Eating so recklessly, it''s like you want me to join your mother down there, right?"

    Lin Jiang didn''t answer Lin Ying directly, but shouted loudly at thezy fifth and seventh brother. Lin Ying brought something and half of it went into their stomachs.

    "Hehe, it''s not often that the tenth sisteres, so of course we have to eat more. Can''t disappoint her kindness."

    "Brother, you still haven''t answered my question."

    "I''m not going. It''s good here, with these two old fools keeping mepany. I won''t be lonely."

    "Fifth brother, seventh brother, help me persuade sixth brother, would you?"

    "Can''t persuade him. This guy''s heart is made of stone."

    "Yeah, the tenth sister, your brother''s willpower is incredibly strong. He''s over seventy years old and still practices every day. Probably still thinking about building a foundation."

    "Haha, exactly. Can''t persuade him even if we try. Besides, it''s good here, with beautiful mountains and clean water, and there''s no shortage of food and drinks."

    Both Lin Hai and Lin Feng refused to persuade him. They had known for a long time that Lin Jiang was a very determined person. Unless he changed his mind, they wouldn''t be able to persuade him.

    "I just want you to live morefortably, I only have you as a family now."

    "Nonsense, we have many siblings and rtives, countless nieces and nephews!"

    "It''s different, they are rtives but not as close as you and me, we are full siblings with the same parents."

    "Forget it, I won''t bother everyone. It''s really nice here. In the future, you shoulde less often, focus more on cultivation, and strive to break through the golden core before Third Sister."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, he had already nned it. Once he reached thete stage of Qi Refining, he would leave. At that stage, he would have some self-defense ability even in the wilderness.

    "Brother, I''ve ordered a Green Rock Pill for you, it might arrive next month."

    "Nonsense, why are you spending money on that? Go cancel it quickly."

    "I can''t cancel it, I''ve already paid the money."

    Lin Ying said, leaving Lin Hai and Lin Feng astonished.

    "Tsk tsk, Green Rock Pill."

    "Congrattions, Sixth Brother, you''ve gained twenty years of life."

    Both of them looked envious. The Green Rock Pill was a precious item that could extend one''s life by twenty years. It was extremely valuable and could no longer be bought with spirit stones. It could only be obtained through barter.

    "Oh, Lin Ying, you''re at a crucial moment in breaking through the golden core. If you fail because of this, how can I exin it to Mother?"

    "I just want you to apany me for a few more years. As you said, as long as our parents are alive, life still has a meaning. But once they''re gone, life bes nothing but a journey back home. Father is a cultivator with a golden core and a long life expectancy. But I don''t feel close to him. You, on the other hand, treat me like a daughter. Now that Mother is gone, I don''t want you to leave me too."

    "Don''t say such things, I can''t bear to hear them."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand repeatedly. He was getting old and couldn''t bear to hear such words. His nose was already tingling, and even Lin Hai and Lin Feng stopped eating, their eyes bing misty.

    "Brother, did I say something wrong..."

    "No, you''re not wrong, Lin Ying. I promise you, I''ll apany you for another twenty years."

    "Brother, I want to always be with you. I will go and find more longevity treasures."

    "It''s useless, the effect of the longevity treasure decreases each time you take it. No matter how much money you have, you can''t make me live forever. I will stay in the Lin family for another twenty years. After twenty years, I will leave."

    "Ah, brother, where are you going?"

    "I want to see the beautifulnd and mountains. I feel ashamed to say that I have lived for over seventy years, but I have only been to Anhua City a few times and nowhere else. Since I''m going to die anyway, I don''t want to die here. I want to go and see different ces. So, when that timees, please don''te looking for me, alright?"

    "No, brother, please don''t do anything foolish."

    "This is my only remaining wish. Won''t you fulfill it for me?"

    "Brother..."

    "It''s decided."

    Lin Jiang said firmly, not giving Lin Ying a chance to object.

    This could be considered as a preventive measure, so there was also an excuse to leave the Lin family. He couldn''t stay any longer, staying longer will definitely expose the secret.

    As a Qi Refining Period cultivator, he couldn''t protect himself at all. Even Lin Batian would have malicious intentions towards him. Lin Jiang was now living as an old person, and he understood very well the feeling of aging and death.

    The terror of life and death is great. Don''t be deceived by the apparent indifference to life and death from Lin Hai and Lin Feng. It''s just resignation towards death. But if given a chance to live on, they will cling desperately to that opportunity. A lifesaveres just like that.

    Lin Hai and Lin Feng were like this, and so were the others. If his secret was exposed, the entire Lin family might be in danger. Who knew how many old monsters would want to capture him for experimentation.

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22

    The Green Rock Pill brought by Lin Ying provided the perfect cover for Lin Jiang. Together with the previously used Appearance Fixing Pill, and the purposely grown sideburns, he was able to appear as a middle-aged man.

    Time passed quickly like a flowing river. In the tenth year of guarding the tomb, Lin Jiang bid farewell to Lin Hai, the fifth elder. Lin Hai was six years older than him, and he passed away at the age of 92, which was considered a long life. After all, there was not much difference in lifespan between cultivators in the Qi Refining Period and ordinary people. It was just that cultivators had a happier old age, as their bodies had been nourished by spiritual energy, making them less prone to various illnesses.

    In the fifteenth year, the seventh elder Lin Feng also passed away. He was a few months younger than Lin Jiang and nearly 90 years old.

    In the eighteenth year, at the age of 94, Lin Jiang finally reached the seventh level of Qi Refining, advancing to theter stage of Qi Refining.

    From this year on, Lin Jiang began preparing to leave the Lin family. He bought many Inedia Pills at the Lin family market, which were pills that could keep a person from feeling hungry for a month. They were essential for traveling cultivators. He also bought many other things.

    Most importantly, Lin Jiang shared hisst wish with many people. He wanted to see the vast world. Several people agreed with his wish.

    Mortals in this world spent their entire lives within a hundred-mile radius of their birthce. Cultivators could venture further, but most Qi Refining Period cultivators in the Lin family only traveled within a radius of a thousand miles. ces further beyond that were too unfamiliar and dangerous for them.

    However, they knew that this world was vast. Just in Yun State, there were areas tens of thousands of miles in size. And beyond Yun State, there was the Immortal Cultivation Realm. These distant ces enticed cultivators to explore.

    At Lin Jiang''s age, there was nothing tying him down anymore. It was a bold thing to see the outside world before dying.After another year had passed, when Lin Ying was in seclusion, Lin Jiang went to the Lin family''s ancestral hall. His appearance quickly caught Steward Wu''s attention. Steward Wu was also old.

    "Sixth Young Master"

    "Steward Wu, I came to say goodbye."

    "You''re not going to tell Miss Ten?"

    "If she knows, she won''t let me go."

    "Yeah, at the end, you are braver than me."

    Steward Wu nodded, impressed with what he had heard about Lin Jiang going outside.

    "I want to take my Soul Lamp with me."

    "Sixth Young Master, it''s not necessary."

    "Yes, I don''t want Lin Ying to know that I am dead. She can''t see the Soul Lamp, so she will always hold on to the hope that I am still alive, that something extraordinary happened to me. If she sees it, she will be very sad, and I don''t want to make her sad."

    Lin Jiang said, silently apologizing in his heart. He was now deceiving people, deceiving the person closest to him.

    "I understand. I will support you. Do you want to go see your father?"

    Steward Wu fell silent for a moment, moved by Lin Jiang''s heartfelt sincerity. At this moment, he was still thinking about his own sister. This kind of bond was powerful enough to move mountains.

    "No, as a father, I don''t want to see my son die in front of me. It''s a tragic event where the older generation buries the younger generation. No one wants to see that."

    "The head of the family can live for a long time."

    Steward Wu thought for a moment and blurted out, "Lin Batian has a golden core cultivation level, which allows him to live for five hundred years. He is only in his early two hundreds now, so he can live for another three hundred years, much longer than you."

    "It''s just an example, but the principle is the same."

    "Yes, I had a son who passed away two years ago. I was heartbroken for a long time."

    "Please fulfill my request, Steward Wu."

    "Alright, I will get it for you."

    Steward Wu nodded and finally agreed, personally handing over the Soul Lamp to Lin Jiang.

    "Father, I haven''t been filial. I didn''t have the chance to take care of you in your old age."

    Lin Jiang knelt in front of the temple, bowing three times heavily. He wanted to perform the y perfectly. Steward Wu was very moved by this.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Secretly leaving the Lin family''s entrance, Lin Jiang called out Big Shadiao from the Spirit Beast Bag. He climbed onto Big Shadiao''s back andmanded it to fly higher. Big Shadiao, who was in theter stage of the first rank, spread its wings and soared forward like a lightning bolt. The Aurora Falcon was truly living up to its reputation.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao took turns carrying Lin Jiang and flew north, passing Anhua City. They continued flying onwards as Anhua City was too close to the Lin family and not Lin Jiang''s destination.

    Lin Jiang''s destination was Yunzhong City, thergest city in Yun State. Yunzhong City was more than 100,000 miles away from the Lin family. It was considered the shining gem of Yun State, the brightest one.

    ording to the information Lin Jiang gathered, Yunzhong City was located downstream from the Yuntuo River. It was an extremelyrge city with over a million cultivators. The Qi Refining Period cultivation level in this city was not worth much. Even Golden Core cultivators weremon here. It was the absolute center of Yun State.

    After traveling for almost a month with many stops along the way, Lin Jiang finally arrived outside Yunzhong City. He looked at the city and felt the awe-inspiring grandeur.

    "Big Shadiao, your good days are over. Come inside."

    Lin Jiang put away Big Shadiao and ced it into the Spirit Beast Bag. Until now, Lin Jiang had never restricted their movements; they were always free to y around. But from now on, it would not be possible. There were so many cultivators in Yunzhong City, and if they were released without control, they might be killed and eaten. From now on, most of the time, they would have to stay in the Spirit Beast Bag.

    In the first three miles of Yunzhong City, flying was not allowed. Lin Jiang walked obediently on the ground. There were many cultivators around, as well as some carriages pulled by giant beasts, which seemed to be some kind of merchant.

    Lin Jiang followed the crowd and arrived at Yunzhong City''s entrance. He spent five spirit stones to exchange for an identity token. With this token, he could live in the city. However, this token only allowed cultivators to stay in the city for one year. If he wanted a permanent token, he would need to have a fixed asset in the city, such as a house.

    "Is real estate the end of the universe?"

    After learning about the housing prices in Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang couldn''t help butin. It was ridiculously expensive! A small courtyard of about a hundred square meters cost over two hundred thousand spirit stones. It would be better to just rob someone.

    After working hard for over forty years in the Lin family and with Zhuang Rong''s inheritance, Lin Jiang now had just over fifty thousand spirit stones. He still couldn''t afford a small courtyard. It was really frustrating. Even after transmigrating, he couldn''t escape the housing market.

    Upon entering Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang appeared extremely cautious. He found a cheap inn to stay in and spent the next half month wandering around the city, observing the situation.

    Yunzhong City was like an erged version of Anhua City. They were not much different from each other. There were maturemercial streets andrge markets, and not just one. There were distinct levels for different cultivation realms such as Qi Refining Period, Foundation Building Period, and Golden Core Period. Each cultivation realm had its own social circle.

    After bing familiar with the situation, Lin Jiang looked for someone to rent a house. The house was only about fifty square meters, but the yearly rent was four thousand spirit stones. Lin Jiang gritted his teeth and rented it. He had a secret with him that made staying in an inn not suitable.

    After settling down, Lin Jiang had to consider his ie. In the Lin family, he wasn''t worried about ie because he had a monthly sry from the family, although not much. He also had a Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi that generated an ie of at least eight hundred spirit stones per year, which was enough for his expenses.

    But here, all these ies were gone, luckily he still had the skill of drawing symbols. Lin Jiang had been practicing symbol art for decades, and his level was far beyondparison. He could already draw eighteen types of high-quality first-grade spiritual talismans, and the sess rate was extremely high. At least eight out of ten could be drawn sessfully.

    The price of a high-quality first-grade spiritual talisman was not high. In the Lin family market, it was about three spirit stones, and in Yunzhong City, it was a bit higher and could be sold for five spirit stones. The cost was less than one spirit stone.

    The cost of spiritual talismans mainlyy in the practice stage, with arge number of failures and the time spent. The actual material cost was not high.

    "With my Qi Refining sevenyer divine sense and spiritual power, it''s no problem to draw three high-quality first-grade spiritual talismans a day. After deducting possible failures and material costs, the profit is approximately twelve to thirteen spirit stones. Without resting for a month, that''s about four hundred spirit stones. In less than a year, it''s less than five thousand spirit stones. Damn it, the rent alone takes four thousand, I can''t make a living."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang calcted and almost spat blood. It turned out that he worked his ass off and basically worked for thendlord. Just the rent alone took up ny percent of his ie.

    After reaching theter stage of Qi Refining, Lin Jiang''s expenses also increased a lot. Qi Gathering Pills were no longer useful for him, he needed to switch to a type of pill called Spirit Gathering Pill. One Spirit Gathering Pill cost ten spirit stones. Based on his previous cultivation habits, he used about six pills a month, which added up to over seven hundred spirit stones in a year.

    In addition to Spirit Gathering Pills, he also needed to use Energy Nourishing Pills, which cost three to four hundred spirit stones a year. This didn''t include other expenses. Altogether, he needed over a thousand spirit stones a year. His ie waspletely insufficient, he would end up with nothing.

    "Yunzhong City, not an easy ce to live in."

    Lin Jiang sighed, he now doubted whether he came to Yunzhong City by mistake. With his level of expenditure, he simply couldn''t save any money.

    He needed to know there were many ces where he would need money in the future. Once he reached the Qi Refining Grand Completion, he would have to find a way to buy the Foundation Building Pill. The Foundation Building Pill cost tens of thousands of spirit stones, which he could afford, but he also needed to find a ce for quiet cultivation. It seemed he would have to go to an advanced cave dwelling, but the rent there was expensive.

    Once he reached the Foundation Building stage, he would have to change his equipment. The equipment used in the Qi Refining Period was called a tool, while the equipment used in the Foundation Building Period was called a spiritual tool. The price of a spiritual tool was several times higher than a tool. To get aplete set of equipment, it would cost at least tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    The pills used for cultivation in the Foundation Building Period were even more expensive. In Anhua City, a True Spirit Pill cost around thirty spirit stones. If he didn''t save some money for the Foundation Building Period, what would he do when the time came?

    "Never mind, never mind, I don''t want to think about it too much. I still have enough savings for a few years. I should focus on improving my cultivation and skills. If I can draw first-grade premium spiritual talismans, I can sell one for ten spirit stones. Then I won''t have to rely on my savings for a living."

    After thinking it through, Lin Jiang shook his head and pushed away his distractions. He had alreadye this far and didn''t want to keep running. He decided to settle down in Yunzhong City. If things didn''t work out, he could figure it outter.

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23

    Yunzhong City

    East City Market was thergest marketce in Yunzhong City. It was located in the east, the poorest area of Yunzhong City. There were many independent cultivators here who didn''t have ess to the city''s shops. That was why this big market was created.

    The market''s rules were very simple. You paid a spirit stone to the market organizer, and they would assign you a stall about two to three square meters in size. You could have the stall for a whole day. If you rented it for a month or a year, there were discounts avable. Lin Jiang decided to directly rent a stall for five years.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, have you heard? Another person has discovered an ancient cave within the Yunzhong Mountain Range outside the city..."

    On this day, Lin Jiang was selling special magical items at his stall. Next to him, a cultivator was talking non-stop. In essence, they were saying that someone had found the ancient cave left behind by a senior cultivator outside the city in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. They found cultivation techniques, secrets, medicine pills, and magical stones worth tens of thousands of magical stones. It was quite astonishing, and suddenly, they became wealthy and sessful.

    This caused excitement among the lower-level cultivators in the city. You see, the Yunzhong Mountain Range was vast, and many cultivators settled there. Some cultivators unexpectedly died or never returned, so their caves became treasure troves in the eyes of the lower-level cultivators.

    "Taoist Friend Zhang, I''m not interested in treasure hunting. You can go by yourself."

    Lin Jiang said. Nowadays, he went by the name Jiang Lin. He was an independent cultivator in Yunzhong City. The person beside him was also his neighbor, sharing the same cave dwelling. However, they had four people living in their courtyard, while Lin Jiang lived alone.

    As for this treasure hunting thing, Lin Jiang had no interest in it. Ever since the time he was part of the Lin family, Lin Die had told him that such matters were likely traps, deliberately spread by bandits. When you thought about treasure hunting, they were thinking about taking your life."Hey, Taoist Friend Jiang, selling these special spiritual charms, can you earn much money? Not enough for your rent, huh? It''s better to take a risk. Without taking a risk, how can you possibly achieve the Building Foundation stage?"

    "Taoist Friend Zhang, you can go by yourself. I''m only thirty years old. There''s no hurry for me."

    Lin Jiang declined once again. Now, he shaved his beard and returned to his original appearance. However, Lin Jiang imed to be thirty years old. Among independent cultivators, reaching the mid-stage of Qi Refining at thirty was considered elite. If his age was any younger, it would raise suspicions.

    The person next to him, seeing that Lin Jiang was not receptive and was not wasting his breath, went to find other people. He had always been very eager to go treasure hunting, but because his abilities were low, he didn''t dare to act alone. So he had always wanted to find a team.

    Lin Jiang shifted his thoughts away from him and focused on selling spiritual talismans. Lin Jiang had already made clear ns for his future. Things like treasure hunting, adventure, and hunting monsters, he didn''t want to participate in any of them. He just wanted to survive.

    Why? Because Lin Jiang''s biggest advantage was time. If he didn''t have money, he could slowly earn it. While others might earn hundreds of thousands of spirit stones in a year, he could earn three to five hundred at most. It might take him a hundred or eighty years, but he could afford it anyway.

    So surviving was the most important thing. He would endure for a few thousand or tens of thousands of years, and then when his cultivation level improved, he could consider doing other things.

    So now Lin Jiang had already nned it out. He would practice for five hours every day and spend another five hours drawing talismans. This was set in stone. The rest of the time would mainly be spent selling spiritual talismans and practicing spells. If the spiritual talismans could not be sold, he could sell them to the shop, but of course, the shop would offer a lower price than the retail price, so he wouldn''t sell his talismans to the shop unless it was necessary.

    "Time''s up, close shop."

    After a while, Lin Jiang saw that it was almost time, so he collected the spiritual talismans and headed home. On the way, he saw some food stalls and spontaneously bought some, saving himself the time to cook.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Half a yearter, Lin Jiang walked out of the house again and bumped into a stranger who was a Taoist cultivator. He greeted him and said, "Hello, Taoist friend. I''m Jiang Feng, the new neighbor."

    "I am Jiang Lin."

    "Oh, we have the same surname, maybe our ancestor is the same family. I wonder where Taoist Friendes from, though."

    "No, Ie from Anhua City."

    "Alright, I thought we were rtives."

    "What about Taoist Friend Zhang?"

    "You refer to the previous owner of the house, right? He must have passed away. Thendlord came to check because he hadn''t paid rent for a month. His roommate said he hadn''t been back for several months, as he went to Yunzhong Mountain Range for treasure hunting."

    "Well, I have something to do. I''m going to go first."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and turned to leave. He went to set up a stall at the big market. Lin Jiang had already anticipated what would happen to that person. During that time, he had teamed up with many people, so it was likely that he had already been targeted by someone.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Hello, big brother."

    When he arrived at the booth, the booth next to it had also changed people. It became a young boy in his early teens, who was apanied by a younger girl. There were more than ten medicinal herbs ced on the booth, but they were all low-level ones.

    "Hello, did you set up the booth yourself?"

    "Yes, big brother."

    "What is your name?"

    "My name is Zhang Ruifeng, and this is my sister, Zhang Ruifang. Our family is responsible for farming for the Zhonghang Sect."

    The young boy was quite friendly, and without much questioning, Lin Jiang told him everything about his background. Lin Jiang couldn''t help but feel amused and frustrated. At such a young age, the boy didn''t know much about the world. Did he really think there were no bad people in Yunzhong City?

    After a while, Yunzhong City''s guards patrolled to this area and saw Zhang Ruifeng and his sister. They specifically stopped and had a friendly conversation with him. The surrounding vendors couldn''t help but show surprise in their eyes.

    Once the guards left, many people approached the little boy to chat. Soon, people from half the street knew that these two siblings had connections in Yunzhong City. Some covetous gazes disappeared.

    Yunzhong City was jointly built and managed by the two major sects, Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, which were Yun State''s giants. Both sects had numerous territories, some of which were avable for rent. However, not everyone could rent them. Basically, they were mostly upied by the two sects'' vassals or disciples'' rtives.

    Some of Zhang Ruifeng''s rtives were disciples of Zhonghang Sect''s outer sect, while his parents rented a spiritualnd from Zhonghang Sect to grow medicinal herbs. So, the Zhang family specifically asked a fellow disciple who was on duty in Yunzhong City to take care of Zhang Ruifeng.

    When Lin Jiang heard this news, he couldn''t help but shake his head. Indeed, nobody in the world of tough guys was simple. Even a young boy of about ten years old had connections behind him.

    "Big brother, are you hungry? I have a pancake here."

    After a while, Zhang Ruifeng approached again and struck up a conversation. He even took out a pancake and handed it to Lin Jiang.

    "Thank you, little brother, but I brought my own food."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. Being away from home, he wouldn''t easily eat or drink someone else''s things. He was cautious about this, and besides, he had brought his own food.

    Lin Jiang never treated himself poorly. When he was at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, he would only sell his Silver Arrow Fish, Silver Light Fish, and Colorful Pig when he got bored of eating them himself.

    Upon arriving in Yunzhong City, the ingredients here were even more abundant. asionally, even the flesh and blood of third-stage demonic beasts would appear. Lin Jiang had already enjoyed a hearty meal. After that, life gradually returned to normal, but Lin Jiang still bought the meat of second-stage demonic beasts to eat.

    The meat of second-stage demonic beasts was more filled with spiritual energy. One pound of meat was equivalent to one-tenth of the spiritual energy in a Spirit Gathering Pill, which was very beneficial for cultivators. Lin Jiang had been eating it for a long time.

    "Okay, my mom''s pancakes are really delicious!"

    "I believe you, so little brother, you can''t disappoint your mom''s kindness. You should finish the pancake yourself."

    "Yes, big brother, would you like to buy our family''s medicine? Our family''s medicine is of very good quality. My dad is a first-grade premium spiritual farmer. The medicine has enough time and thick spiritual energy. It''s definitely not fake."

    "Little one, you see, I am a talisman maker, not an alchemist, so I don''t need your family''s medicine."

    Lin Jiang was starting to get annoyed. The little guy was being too familiar, he just couldn''t stop talking.

    "Big brother, you can also learn alchemy. Alchemists make a lot of money. Pill, talisman, item, and formation are the four skills, with refining pill as the most important..."

    "Big brother..."

    "Big brother..."

    Zhang Ruifeng couldn''t understand Lin Jiang''s annoyed expression. He kept talking to Lin Jiang, revealing his talkative nature. Lin Jiang clenched his teeth, damn it, he was not going to sell anymore.

    "Big brother, why did you leave so early? It''s only noon."

    Zhang Ruifeng tilted his head, unable to understand why his brother next door was being so wasteful. Didn''t the stall fee cost money? Why did he leave at noon?

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24

    Grand Market in Yunzhong City

    Lin Jiang noticed that there weren''t many people around and started to daydream. He was calcting his expenses for the past two years in Yunzhong City. Lin Jiang had a habit of keeping track of his major expenses.

    In the first year, Lin Jiang spent about six thousand eight hundred spirit stones and earned three thousand five hundred. In the second year, he spent seven thousand two hundred spirit stones and earned four thousand two hundred. In two years, he used up his savings of six thousand three hundred spirit stones.

    "Ie and expenses are imbnced. If I earn three thousand a year, I can only survive for a little over ten years."

    Lin Jiang sighed. If he didn''t have savings, he would have gone bankrupt a long time ago. Either he could choose to share an apartment with others to reduce expenses, or he would have to endure the difficult days in Yunzhong City.

    Lin Jiang looked down at his magical charm. The items on his stall were increasing, indicating that sales couldn''t keep up with his production, resulting in a stockpile. He still had hundreds of them in his storage bag. Ultimately, he couldn''t bear to sell the store because it would be too much of a loss.

    "Big brother, big brother..."

    The sound echoed in Lin Jiang''s ears again, but he felt that the little guy had grabbed his hand. Lin Jiang quietly activated his spiritual power and flicked away Zhang Ruifeng''s hand.

    "What''s the matter?"Lin Jiang tried to appear indifferent. He was truly helpless with this Zhang Ruifeng. He was too familiar and had no sense of boundaries. Clearly, Lin Jiang had no interest in him, yet he kept pestering him to chat every day.

    "Big brother, you don''t use your stall all day. Can I use it after you leave?"

    Zhang Ruifeng said, "In the market of Yunzhong City, stalls can be resold, rented, or loaned. The city doesn''t care as long as they receive the payment."

    "No."

    "Come on, big brother, don''t be so stingy. I''ll pay you rent. The stall fee is one spirit stone per day. I''ll rent the remaining days at the price of three spirit stones per day."

    "Whye to me? Go find someone else."

    "I don''t know anyone else, but my brother is the best."

    "If I let you rent the stall, will you stop bothering me?"

    "Okay, I promise."

    "Alright, after I close the stall, you can use it."

    As soon as Lin Jiang heard this, he immediately agreed. Whether it was about money or not, he just didn''t want to be bothered anymore. Lin Jiang felt that he had be a bit introverted, and he couldn''t stand this talkative person.

    Speaking of these two siblings, they were quite unique. Zhang Ruifeng, the older brother, was talkative, while his younger sister obviously had social anxiety. Having known her for over a year, he had never heard her say more than twenty sentences. She would just stare off into space at the stall every day, making others think she was mute.

    "Thank you, brother."

    Zhang Ruifeng was overjoyed when he saw that Lin Jiang agreed. Now, he could bring even more medicinal herbs to sell.

    "Little brother, why don''t you rent my stall too?"

    At this moment, a person who sold things at a stall to Lin Jiang''s right spoke. She was a beautiful youngdy with attractive features. She also seemed to know most of the stall owners on this street.

    "No, sister, you work at the stall for around ten hours a day, but the rent you pay is not worth it. Unlike big brother, who only works for four hours a day."

    Zhang Ruifeng shook his head directly. It wouldn''t be worth it to rent the beautiful youngdy''s stall. He would have to work for around ten hours every day, and his working hours would ovep with hers. It was not like Lin Jiang, who only worked for four hours a day, sometimes even less than four hours. That was when he could make money.

    "He''s a clever little devil."

    As soon as the beautiful youngdy heard this, she became angry. Zhang Ruifeng might be young, but he was very shrewd. He had been thriving in the big market for the past two years.

    The beautiful youngdy''s eyes shifted, and she looked at Lin Jiang. She said, "Jiang, my Taoist friend, it''s been some time since youst came to buy talisman paper from me."

    "Lately, spiritual talismans haven''t been selling well, so I haven''t used up all the talisman paper."

    Lin Jiang calmly replied. The beautiful youngdy''s business ovepped with his, as they both sold some basic spiritual talismans and talisman paper. It seemed that her family also cultivated a special herb for the Zhonghang Sect, which could be used to make talisman paper.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, do you have some time to discuss and exchange knowledge about drawing talismans? I would really like to learn from you."

    "I''m busy, no time."

    Lin Jiang refused again, he couldn''t stand the beautiful woman''s voice, it was like a peg sound, no, it should be a peg monster, giving him goosebumps.

    "Taoist friend, why are you in a hurry to refuse? I have good rtionships with many Taoist friends, as independent cultivators, we should bond together, exchange cultivation experiences and resources. You are a high-level Taoist friend..."

    "It''s my turn to set up a stall today, Zhang Ruifeng. The stall is yours now."

    Without waiting for the beautiful woman to finish, Lin Jiang immediately packed up and left. Deceptive people always caused trouble in rtionships. This beautiful woman, with close rtions with several male cultivators in this street, had made many people jealous. Lin Jiang didn''t want to offend anyone for no reason, it was not worth it at all.

    "What a strange person."

    The beautiful woman watched as Lin Jiang walked away, thinking to herself. She knew he was a rich man who lived alone and was not interested in women. She thought he must be blind.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Dear friend,e in and let''s exchange our knowledge of Taoist arts."

    On the way to the city center, Lin Jiang heard a sweet voiceing from Spring Coming Tower. He looked up and saw a group of beautiful fairies waving at him. They were showing off their charms and beauty.

    Lin Jiang felt uneasy and hurriedly walked away. The price of love in Yunzhong City was much higher than in Lin Family Market. In Lin Family Market, he could easily find something with just a few spirit stones. But here in Yunzhong City, he needed twenty spirit stones just to have a small meat dish. And the better quality ones had no price limit. Lin Jiang couldn''t afford to spend so much money just for a trembling feeling.

    It had been several years since he came to Yunzhong City. He only went to satisfy his cravings asionally. Eating too much not only made him worry about his waistline, but also about his storage bag bursting.

    After walking a few hundred meters, Lin Jiang arrived at Duobao Pavilion. Duobao Pavilion was a well-known store under the Cloud Sword Sect. It had branches all over Yun State and had a good reputation. It was unlikely for someone to be killed or robbed after revealing their wealth inside. However, the probability of such incidents happening was much higher in unknown stores.

    Some small stores even relied on such incidents for their survival. The customers who came to their stores were like fat sheep in their eyes.

    "Hello, Taoist friend Jiang. You''re here."

    As soon as Lin Jiang entered, a familiar steward came up to him. Lin Jiang nodded and followed him into a private room.

    Duobao Pavilion had many sales stewards, each with sales targets. So they also took care of their customers. Lin Jiang was not a new customer and had already be familiar with one of the stewards.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, what can I help you with this time?"

    "It''s still the same, Energy Nourishing Pill, Spirit Gathering Pill, they all have to be top-quality."

    Lin Jiang said, "Medicinal pills are ssified into different qualities: top-quality, high, medium, and low. This is quite vague in the Lin family neighborhood and Anhua City, but in Yunzhong City, it''s very clear."

    Different qualities of medicinal pills had different prices. The better the quality, the milder and more abundant the spiritual energy, and the fewer side effects there were. If you took a low-quality pill, it would take several days to recover, otherwise, harmful substances would umte, and the consequences would be serious. In the future, if you took the same pill again, the effect would be greatly reduced, or unexpected idents might ur during the crucial breakthrough process.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Okay, Taoist Friend Jiang, I will arrange for someone to deliver it right away."

    The steward smiled. Straightforward customers like Lin Jiang were rare in Yunzhong City. Most of the lower-level cultivators lived difficult lives, so they tended to be petty. Lin Jiang was different from them. He had always been straightforward.

    "The medicinal pills are correct, they are spirit stones. Please check."

    "No problem, Taoist Friend Jiang won''t be wrong."

    "I''ll leave first."

    "Wait a moment, Jiang, my Taoist friend."

    "Is there anything else?"

    "Well, Taoist Friend Jiang, you see, our Duobao Pavilion holds regr exchange meetings as a way to give back to our customers. During these meetings, senior experts in the Building Foundation Periode to host and answer members'' questions. We also organize impromptu auctions and trading sessions. At our Duobao Pavilion, only customers who have spent a certain amount of spirit stones are eligible to participate. I wonder if Taoist Friend Jiang is interested."

    "When?"

    "At the beginning of each month."

    "I will go and take a look then."

    "In that case, you cane to Duobao Pavilion earlier and I will personally take you there."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then left. He had heard about such exchange meetings before. Many people in the bustling market area boasted about it as if being able to participate in these meetings was a symbol of status for independent cultivators.

    And indeed it was true. Lin Jiang had spent at least five thousand spirit stones at Duobao Pavilion to receive the invitation. Regr independent cultivators had no qualifications whatsoever.

    Half a monthter, Lin Jiang attended his first exchange meeting. As a neer, Lin Jiang was very cautious and didn''t say a word from beginning to end. He also didn''t participate in the resource exchange. This time, he considered it a learning experience.

    However, this exchange meeting opened Lin Jiang''s eyes. There were countless cultivation techniques and various spiritual objects in the world that Lin Jiang had never seen before. It was his first time seeing them.

    "Usually, the exchange meetings are organized every two to three months,sting four to six hours. It doesn''t take up much time, but the gains are substantial. You should participate more in the future."

    Lin Jiang made up his mind. He wanted to attend more of these exchange meetings because isting himself and relying solely on his own knowledge was not advisable. He realized that he knew very little about the cultivation world. Moreover, the information shared by the majority of elite participants in the exchange meetings was much more reliable than what independent cultivators at the marketce provided.

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25

    Over a year had passed, and during that time, Lin Jiang had attended four exchange meetings. He was no longer a newbie like he was at his first meeting. Among the customers at Duobao Pavilion, he had gained a bit of fame.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Many people befriended Lin Jiang, wanting to coborate with him on various things such as missions or treasure hunting, but Lin Jiang turned down all of these requests.

    He only exchanged for things he needed at the exchange meetings, such as spiritual medicines and insights into drawing talismans. This also greatly improved his talisman-drawing skills. A month ago, he sessfully drew his first first-grade premium spiritual talisman.

    Lin Jiang realized that he knew very little about the cultivation world, so he spent this past year strengthening his understanding. He deliberately collected a lot of information.

    As Lin Jiang read through the whole thing, he saw the words "ss" everywhere. In the world of cultivation, everything was ssified into different sses. Cultivators were divided based on their Spiritual Root, and techniques were categorized as heaven, earth, xuan, yellow. Pills, talismans, items, and formations also had different grades.

    And these distinctions were ultimately made to differentiate people. It was extremely difficult for lower-level cultivators to advance. For example, to improve their cultivation level, they must have a Spiritual Root, preferably a good one. Otherwise, they needed to make up for it in other ways, such as acquiring advanced techniques or plenty of spiritual herbs.

    However, for the majority of lower-level cultivators, theycked all of these, including a Spiritual Root. Once they possessed an outstanding Spiritual Root, they were no longer considered lower-level and might be recruited by major families and sects, instantly elevating their social standing.

    Based on this information, Lin Jiang adjusted his ns. The first thing he needed to do was find a powerful technique. The technique he practiced was called the Profound Illumination Art. ording to its grade, it should be of a high yellow grade. In terms of small factions or independent cultivators, it would be considered very good. Most cultivators in Yunzhong City had techniques of a low yellow grade.However, Lin Jiang was still very dissatisfied. It wss said that thew was the foundation of cultivation resources. A top-tier technique not only allowed cultivators to progress faster, but also raised their potential. The Profound Illumination Art that Lin Jiang currently practiced could only be cultivated up to the Golden Core Period. On the market, any heavenly level cultivation method could reach the level of Soul Changing or above.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Jiang wants advanced techniques but doesn''t know what level or if there are any specific requirements."

    When the steward at the Duobao Pavilion, who was acquainted with Lin Jiang, heard about his visit, he instinctively asked in response.

    "I prefer techniques without any restrictions based on Spiritual Roots. I have Five Spiritual Roots. As for the grade, do you have any heavenly level techniques?"

    "There are many cultivation techniques without the restriction of Spiritual Roots, but to say that it''s a heavenly level cultivation method, Taoist Friend Jiang is joking. A heavenly level cultivation method without an owner can attract the attention of any prestigious sect, causing a fierce battle in the cultivation world. It can lead to chaos and bloodshed. Even if we consider the situation from a different perspective, if there were truly trades for heavenly level cultivation methods, they cannot be purchased with spirit stones. They must be exchanged for valuable items, and at a high price."

    The steward shook his head. He didn''tugh at Lin Jiang because there were many cultivators who believed that heavenly level cultivation methods were easy to obtain. Even the Cloud Sword Sect, to which he belonged, only had one heavenly level cultivation method, which was exclusive to their inner disciples.

    "So, where can one have the opportunity to obtain a heavenly level cultivation method?"

    "Joining a prestigious sect. As far as I know, in Yun State, only the Zhonghang Sect, the Cloud Sword Sect, and another major sect called the Five Star Sect possess heavenly level cultivation methods. By joining a sect, entering the inner sect, and being epted as a disciple by a senior elder, one can almost certainly learn a heavenly level cultivation method."

    "I see."

    Lin Jiang felt a sense of despair. He knew that this path was not for him. To join a major sect and obtain the title of a true disciple was no longer within his reach. He had been eliminated because of hisck of a Heavenly Spiritual Root. Without this qualification, he couldn''t even dream of it.

    "Yes, Taoist Friend Jiang, do you have any other requests?"

    "Can you provide me with a list of heavenly level cultivation methods? I will strive and work hard. After all, a person should have dreams. Without dreams, what''s the difference between us and a salted fish?"

    "Haha, Taoist Friend Jiang, you are right. If you have a strong desire for heavenly level cultivation methods, why not let me gift you one?"

    "Um, are you joking with me?"

    "No, Jiang, my Taoist friend, please don''t misunderstand, I''m serious. Have you ever heard of the Overlord Scroll?"

    "Nope."

    "Then let me tell Taoist Friend Jiang, the Overlord Scroll has been passed down since ancient times. It is said to have been created by a cultivator named Huangtu."

    Huangtu was originally from a family that was destroyed by enemies. He was the only survivor and seeking revenge became his obsession. However, Huangtu had average talent and slow progress in cultivation. Under immense pressure, he fell into the path of darkness and explored many dark cultivation techniques.

    Dark cultivation techniques were known for their fast progress, low obstacles, and minimal resource requirements. However, they also came with great drawbacks. Each technique had significant advantages and disadvantages.

    Even after practicing these dark techniques, Huangtu still believed they were not powerful enough to sustain him. So, hebined various dark techniques to create the Overlord Scroll.

    The Overlord Scroll incorporated the best aspects of all the dark techniques imaginable, but it had one fatal wбкit significantly shortened one''s lifespan.

    "As we all know, the Foundation Building Periodsts around 200 years, Golden Corests 500 years, Nascent Soulsts 1,000 years, and Soul Changingsts 2,000 years. After creating and seeking revenge with the Overlord Scroll, Huangtu only lived for less than 50 years. At that time, he was in the Soul Changing stage. ording to people''s estimates, he might have lived for less than 400 years."

    "After that, many people also learned this Overlord Scroll. Each practitioner had a very short life span, less than a third of the usual lifespan. So the Overlord Scroll is also known as the "short-lived cultivation method". When I was young, just like my Taoist friend Jiang, I also wanted to find a heavenly level cultivation method. I managed to get my hands on this Overlord Scroll, but after practicing for less than a month, I didn''t dare to continue practicing."

    The steward slowly exined that no one had practiced this Overlord Scroll for many years. The major sects even considered it a forbidden technique. Even the sect''s Library Pavilion didn''t allow it to be included, for fear that some disciples would be tempted by its fast cultivation speed and ignore its dangers.

    Lin Jiang beside them was stunned, thinking to himself, "What the heck, isn''t this technique tailor-made for me?"

    "Jiang, my Taoist friend... Jiang, my Taoist friend..."

    "Ahem, sorry for spacing out. So, about this technique..."

    "If you want it, I''ll give it to you. But please think carefully, this technique is really bizarre. Many predecessors have tried to ovee its drawbacks, but all failed. Those who cultivate this technique all die in their prime."

    "We cultivate immortality to live forever, not to seek death. If there is no deep enmity to the point of wanting to die together with an enemy, it''s best not to practice it."

    "I understand. I''ll just take a look. I''m still young and don''t have any enemies to the point of losing hope."

    "That''s good. If my Taoist friend is talented, perhaps you can learn something useful from it."

    "I wonder how this technique is sold?"

    "I said it''s a gift for my taoist friend. You have taken care of me for many years, so I won''t ask for money."

    Lin Jiang spent more than ten thousand spirit stones on things. This helped him achieve great sess. The steward wanted to keep this customer, otherwise he wouldn''t have told Lin Jiang about it.

    "Thank you so much, taoist friend."

    "This is the technique. Let me repeat it again, don''t practice it casually, and don''t have any illusions. If you do practice it, stop as soon as possible. It will only shorten your lifespan a little. If you wait until you master the technique, it will be toote."

    "Understood. Thank you, taoist friend. I''ll leave now, nothing urgent."

    Lin Jiang pretended to casually pick up the technique, but he couldn''t contain his excitement. He couldn''t believe his luck toe across such a technique. He was eager to go back and practice it.

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 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26

    "Oh no, I can''t practice it. It will kill me if I continue."

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang angrily put down the powerful Overlord Scroll. Three months ago, he obtained this martial arts technique from the Duobao Pavilion steward, naively thinking it was tailor-made for him.

    So as soon as Lin Jiang arrived home, he eagerly began studying it. However, after three months had passed, Lin Jiang decided to give up.

    The Overlord Scroll was known for its short lifespan. Lin Jiang thought it only consumed his remaining years, which he wasn''t afraid of. His remaining years were already fifteen thousand, so he had plenty.

    But after practicing, he realized it was not like that at all. The Overlord Scroll actually consumed his physical body. The energy of this technique was extremely dominant, but the price was damaging the body. If he practiced it extensively, his body would eventually deteriorate, turning him into a living dead with countless years of life but a ruined body.

    This went against Lin Jiang''s intentions. He didn''t seek immortality through cultivation, but rather a means to protect himself. So he could only painfully give up this heavenly level cultivation method.

    "But it''s not all in vain. One of the secret techniques in the Overlord Scroll is quite suitable for my needs."

    Lin Jiang sighed again, as the Overlord Scroll contained several secret techniques, one of which was the Explosive Element Technique, an extremely dominant technique.

    This Explosive Element Technique used life force as fuel and instantly doubled one''s attack power. Doubling the power cost ten years of life, and at its highest, it could increase attack power tenfold, costing a hundred years of life.For other cultivators, this move meant seeking death. The Golden Core Period only had five hundred years of life, and most cultivators who reached this period were already over a hundred years old. Only those with around four hundred years of life remaining could afford to use it. If they encountered a strong enemy and used up a hundred years of life, they probably wouldn''t reach the Nascent Soul stage in this lifetime.

    Lin Jiang didn''t care. With his lifespan of over ten thousand years, using a hundred or so of them is nothing. Even if he increased it by a hundred and eighty times, he could afford it. With his current Qi Refining cultivation at the seventh level, it was unlikely that anyone within the Qi Refining Period would be his opponent.

    Therefore, Lin Jiang had decided to practice the Explosive Element Technique. It would be one of his trump cards in the future.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist friend Jiang"

    In the early morning, Lin Jiang arrived at the bustling marketce. A beautiful young woman beside him warmly greeted him. Perhaps because it was still early and there weren''t many customers, a few male cultivators were surrounding the woman. Upon seeing Lin Jiang, the men immediately showed a hostile gaze.

    "Ah, hello, Taoist Friend Liu."

    Lin Jiang politely greeted back and then took out a cloth,ying it on the ground and cing the spiritual talismans he was selling one by one.

    Now, Lin Jiang''s spiritual talismans for sale have been upgraded to first-grade premium. He had previously sold all the second-ss intermediate spiritual talismans to a certain shop, recovering more than three thousand spirit stones in cost.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, you have made progress in your talisman techniques. Today, there are two new types of spiritual talismans. It''s truly a cause for celebration."

    The beautiful young woman didn''t care about Lin Jiang''s coldness and got closer to him. In these past few months, her attitude towards Lin Jiang suddenly became much more enthusiastic.

    She discovered that Lin Jiang was one of the few wealthy and promising people in this big marketce. Lin Jiang, despite being young, had a high level of skill and was extremely proficient in drawing powerful symbols. The first grade premium spiritual talisman that he could draw was not something that anyone in the Qi Refining Period could create. Even those who had spent half their lives studying spiritual talismans couldn''t reach this level.

    The value of a first level premium spiritual talisman also skyrocketed. A regr one could be sold for ten spirit stones, and the material cost of a spiritual talisman was just one spirit stone. Even when taking into ount the asional failures, the ie was still considerable. Earning a few hundred spirit stones in a month was definitely one of the top ies in this big marketce.

    "Not bad, I''ve made some progress."

    Lin Jiang nodded, feeling quite pleased with himself. He had a natural talent for drawing symbols, and now he could draw nine kinds of first grade premium spiritual talismans with a high rate of sess. For every ten he drew, five or six would turn out well.

    Based on the price of a first level premium spiritual talisman, he would be able to maintain a bnced ie and expenditure this year or maybe even next year. If the sess rate could be slightly higher, he could make a small profit and slowly umte wealth.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, how many spiritual talismans can you draw in a day now?"

    "Why do you ask?"

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, please don''t misunderstand. I just wanted to ask, if you''re drawing fewer talismans, you could try the Soul Refining Technique. It''s an excellent technique for strengthening your spiritual consciousness. Even top sects like Zhonghang Sect are using it. If youbine it with some Soul Nourishing Pills, it would be incredibly powerful for us Talisman Makers."

    The beautiful woman saw Lin Jiang frown and quickly exined that she knew this question was a bit personal, but she just wanted to find a topic to have a deeper conversation with him. Although she may not be good at drawing symbols, she is quite knowledgeable about the Talisman Maker industry because her family has a Talisman Maker.

    "I already know, I have also been practicing the Soul Refining Technique."

    Lin Jiang replied that he didn''t know about these things before, but aftering to Yunzhong City, he had learned about the Soul Refining Technique. It was a very advanced secret art that could enhance one''s spiritual awareness, but as it was widely spread, it was not expensive.

    The more expensive item was the Soul Nourishing Pill, which cost thirty spirit stones for thirty pills, and it needed to be taken regrly. This could be quite costly, but Lin Jiang decided to buy it as he believed that when it came to work, one must have the right tools. Drawing symbols and the strength of the soul were closely rted, so it was an investment in himself.

    "Then we can exchange our knowledge of the Soul Refining Technique. I have been practicing it since I was young and have gained a lot from it."

    The beautiful woman was instantly excited, finally finding amon topic. It was rare.

    "Taoist friend Liu, you shouldmunicate with the other Taoist friends. I am not convenient."

    Lin Jiang nced at those jealous men and couldn''t help shaking his head. This woman was so attractive, he couldn''t afford to mess with her.

    The beautiful woman turned her head and wasn''t pleased. These fools, why were they so clueless? Didn''t they see that she was unwilling to bother with them anymore? Why were they still hanging around?

    "It''s okay, my Taoist friend Jiang, they are not Talisman Makers, so we can''t really connect. I prefer Talisman Makers."

    The beautiful woman said to Lin Jiang and intentionally flirted with her hair, revealing a charming expression.

    "Drawing symbols is part of my life, but honestly, I don''t enjoy it. Okay, let''s start doing business. Taoist Friend Liu, please go."

    Lin Jiang''s face suddenly became serious and he made a gesture of requesting someone to leave. He wanted to chase someone away.

    The beautiful woman heard this and was momentarily stunned. Then she stomped her foot and walked back to her own stall, angrily shooing away a few bootlickers.

    "He''s really stubborn, no, he''s like a stone in a pit. Hmph."

    Soon, Lin Jiang heard a tenderint from beside his ear, but he pretended not to hear it.

    "Hehe, Brother Jiang, Sister Liu really likes you."

    Just as one annoying person left, another annoying person appeared. Zhang Ruifeng stepped onto the scene.

    "Don''t talk nonsense. You''re just a little kid who knows nothing about likes."

    "I''m not a little kid. I''m thirteen this year. If I were an ordinary person, I could get married next year."

    Zhang Ruifeng looked up, trying to make himself look stronger. Was thirteen years old too young? His rtives without Spiritual Roots started marrying at fourteen. It was a sign of adulthood.

    "You should reach the Qi Refining level first before talking. Without cultivation, you can''t speak with authority."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said, instantly poking at Zhang Ruifeng''s ego.

    In Yunzhong City, they encourage starting cultivation at the age of twelve. Even if the conditions were good, they still started at this age. It was said that starting cultivation too early was not beneficial for the future and could prematurely trigger potential.

    So, like Lin Jiang, Zhang Ruifeng also tested his Spiritual Rootst year. He had Five Spiritual Roots, which were the worst talent in the cultivation world. He had been practicing for over a year, but hadn''t even reached the Qi Refining level.

    Of course, Lin Jiang didn''t feel good aboutughing at others either because the original host, Lin Jiang, also took over two years to reach the Qi Refining level after cultivating Qi into his body. Then he stayed at the Qi Refining level for many years. It was truly embarrassing. That was why he was called the shame of the Lin family.

    Upon hearing Lin Jiang''s words, Zhang Ruifeng instantly became furious. His face turned red, and he began gasping for breath, unable to retort because not cultivating Qi into his body for over a year was truly wasteful.

    "Brother Jiang, I will surpass you sooner orter."

    "Really? Then I''ll be waiting for you."

    "You just wait and see."

    "Hmm, I''ll wait. By the way, cultivating requires a lot of money. Without spirit stones, it''s hard to make progress. So, in order to catch up with my level of cultivation, you should focus on earning more money instead of idly chatting with people. You''re not an ordinary person anymore, understand?"

    Lin Jiang said, "Young man, I''ve made myself clear, right? You need to focus on your cultivation and stop talking so much. I''m fed up with it."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "But I was trying to make money."

    Zhang Ruifeng said, "Why do you alwaysin about I talking too much? Even my father couldn''t stand it, so he sent me to Yunzhong City to set up a stall at such a young age. Despite being talkative, I actually earned quite a bit of money."

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang treated himself to a huge cake and inserted 105 candles on top.

    "One hundred and five years old"

    Lin Jiang sighed and then blew out all the candles in one breath. Today was his birthday, and he was one hundred and five years old, still at the seventh level of Qi Refining.

    This made Lin Jiang very frustrated. The cultivation talent of this body was really terrible. It took ny-three years for him to reach the seventh level of Qi Refining at the age of one hundred and five. If it wasn''t for the system helping him, he would have long perished.

    After finishing the cake, Lin Jiang tidied up and headed to Duobao Pavilion to buy some more elixirs. Currently, he mainly used Spirit Gathering Pills, Energy Nourishing Pills, and Soul Nourishing Pills. He had to buy them every month, costing hundreds of spirit stones.

    "Hello, Taoist friend Jiang"

    "What are you nning to do at Duobao Pavilion? It looks so festive."

    At the Duobao Pavilion entrance, Lin Jiang saw many employees cleaning the doors, windows, and walls. Some were also hanging red cloth on the ques, making it look like a wedding celebration.

    "Don''t you know it''s the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City, Taoist friend Jiang?""I haven''t heard about it. Can you tell me more?"

    "Good, Yunzhong City was established thirteen hundred years ago. Starting a thousand years ago, every hundred years, they have a Centennial Celebration. During the celebration, the entrance fee to Yunzhong City ispletely waived, and Yunzhong City organizes many activities. For example, they invite various performing troupes, such as acrobats and opera groups, to give free performances."

    "At the same time, our store will also offer a series of special discounts, such as giving an 80% discount on purchases. Additionally, our Duobao Pavilion, which is arge store, will bring out many hidden treasures to sell, such as rare items like the Building Foundation Pill that are not often seen. There will be plenty of them avable when the timees. Taoist Friend Jiang, please get prepared. Who knows, maybe you will be able to buy some great things."

    "It''s like the Double Eleven in the Immortal Realm."

    Lin Jiang sighed and eximed, "Who says cultivators don''t know marketing? This is marketing, and they''ve been doing it for a thousand years. Truly impressive!"

    "Taoist friend, what is Double Eleven?"

    "It''s nothing special. It''s a custom in our hometown. On November 11th, all the businesses join together to hold an event. Just like you, they also have discounts and such to attract people to shop and buy things."

    "Why is it on November 11th? Why can''t it be any other day?"

    "Um, that''s not important."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. Can I me it all on you unscrupulous merchants? Originally, Double Eleven was Singles'' Day, but you unscrupulous merchants turned it into a shopping spree. It''s just ridiculous.

    "Haha, it''s like this, Taoist friend Jiang, I advise you to prepare a little more spirit stones, so that you can get better discounts when buying things."

    "When will the centennial celebration be held?"

    "It''s still half a month away. Seven days in advance, it will be announced at the City Lord''s Mansion. We got the information in advance, so let''s get ready first."

    "Understood, it''s a warm-up. Alright, I willeter, save some good things for me."

    "That''s necessary, Taoist Friend Jiang is our honored guest."

    The steward nodded. Lin Jiang and him had been working together for many years, so they were very familiar. Guests like Lin Jiang, who were generous, were also their favorites.

    When they arrived at the market from Duobao Pavilion, there were also many people discussing the centennial celebration of Yunzhong City on this side of the market. It seemed that the news had already spread. However, Lin Jiang was unaware because he turned a deaf ear to it.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, you''re here."

    The beautiful young woman saw Lin Jiang and still greeted him warmly.

    "Taoist Friend Liu, hello."

    Lin Jiang bowed to the beautiful young woman, as time went by, he didn''t feel as cold and reluctant towards her anymore.

    Because Lin Jiang also learned about the story behind this beautiful young woman. Her surname was Liu, her name was Liu Bai Xue. She had a husband and children. Her husband was a fully aplished Qi Refining cultivator. However, several years ago, her husband got into a fight outside and had his meridians severed, leaving him paralyzed. Their child was still young. Now, the whole family relied on her to make a living.

    During the day, she set up a stall at the big market, and at night, she went back to farming. She even had to take care of the household. She had almost sacrificed all her time for cultivation.

    The reason she hadplicated rtionships with many men was actually to support her family. After all, she was a woman without much social experience, so she could only make use of her feminine charm, being skillful in drawing attention.

    After knowing the story behind the beautiful young woman, Lin Jiang admired her a lot. Women like her, who were virtuous and capable, were few and far between. Although shecked a bit in method, nobody was perfect. One shouldn''t demand too much.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, have you eaten? I brought some food."

    "I have already eaten, thank you, Taoist Friend Liu."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. Of course, even though he no longer kept his distance, he didn''t have any intention to get too close to her either. He didn''t want to be like that person named Cao. At most, he could do what Li Daming did.

    "Does Taoist Friend Jiang know about the hundredth anniversary celebration in Yunzhong City?"

    "I just heard about it too."

    "Does your Taoist friend Jiang know that this year is the tenth hundredth anniversary celebration? I heard that Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are nning to make the centennial celebration into a millennium celebration this year. It will be much grander in scale than ever before."

    "Is that true?"

    "Of course! It''s already a thousandth anniversary celebration. And the bigger the celebration, the more money they make. They don''t charge entrance fees, but the businesses will definitely have to pay taxes. If everything goes well, the ie for the next two weeks will be more than what they earn in over ten years."

    "That makes sense. It seems like there''s some truth to it."

    Lin Jiang nodded, as if it made sense. The amount of transactions under this kind of marketing strategy would surely be terrifying. Both sects had experts and they wouldn''t overlook that.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang can also prepare in advance. There will surely be a huge number of cultivators flooding into Yunzhong City. I heard that during the celebration a hundred years ago, there were hundreds of thousands of cultivators from other ces who came here. Even us small vendors earned arge amount of money."

    "And there will be many rare things that we usually don''t see. Things like cultivation techniques, secret arts, medicinal pills, and weapons. There will be a lot, and they might even be cheaper than usual."

    "Understood, I will prepare."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He was now most proud of his spiritual talismans. It seemed he needed to stock up and find a way to make a big profit.

    He also had some things to sell. For example, the Green Rock Pill Lin Ying had bought for him. He had kept it on him for many years, but it was not convenient to use in everyday life. This time, it would be useful to sell it before it lost its effectiveness.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, let''s share our strengths and weaknesses, andmunicate more in the future. It''s important for lower-level cultivators to unite."

    "Okay, then thank you, Taoist friend Liu."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The beautiful young woman was not useless at all. She had many friends, followers, and was well-informed. She was much better than him, who had social anxiety. In the future, he could gather useful information from her.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    As news of the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration spread, the city''s market visibly became bleak. It seemed that the merchants were stocking up, and even the small vendors were doing the same.

    Naturally, Lin Jiang couldn''t avoid this. Not only did he set up a stall casually, but he also worked overtime. Apart from the five hours he spent practicing each day, he used all his other time to draw talismans. He even reduced his sleeping time to three hours.

    Actually, for those at theter stage of Qi Refining in cultivating immortality, it was perfectly fine to go without sleep for ten and a half days. But once they reach the Foundation Building Period, sleeping became a basic instinct. They could go without sleep for half a year or even a whole year without feeling tired.

    Lin Jiang used to sleep for about eight hours a day in order to maintain a regr life and bezy. But this time, he was ready to make a big profit, so he tried to reduce his sleep time as much as possible. However, he couldn''t go without any sleep at all.

    Three days before the grand centennial celebration, the number of people flowing into Yunzhong City suddenly increased. Almost every day, thousands or even tens of thousands of cultivators from other ces flocked in. The news about the centennial celebration of Yunzhong City seemed to have spread throughout the entire cultivation world of Yun State.

    The first ones to make a big profit were the inns. Lin Jiang even heard that some businesses that usually didn''t do well transformed their own stores and warehouses into temporary inns.

    "Some of the businesses couldn''t resist putting their goods out for sale. These bastards are crazy; they''re selling at higher prices than usual and shamelessly im they have an 80% discount."

    Instead of setting up a stall, Lin Jiang gathered with a few friends he had met at the Duobao Pavilion exchange fair. For the past few years, Lin Jiang had always participated in the exchange fair at Duobao Pavilion. He learned about the Soul Refining Technique from there.

    "That''s right. I received news that the City Lord''s Mansion received a lot ofints about these unscrupulous merchants. They promised big discounts, so how can they raise the prices?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    The group of people discussed and criticized those businesses that were selling at higher prices than usual and still iming to offer big discounts. They simply saw them as fools.

    Of course,rge establishments like Duobao Pavilion wouldn''t do such things. Those small businesses were the ones causing trouble. The City Lord''s Mansion received arge number of reports. If they were to thoroughly investigate, it would be a big trouble for them.

    After cursing the shop, everyone started discussing their goals for the centennial celebration. Some wanted to buy advanced cultivation techniques, some wanted to change to a handy flying sword, but most people wanted to take the opportunity to buy a Foundation Building Pill.

    Normally, Foundation Building Pills were sold in Yunzhong City, but the quantity was too limited and the price was pushed to the extreme. During this centennial celebration, many forces gathered, and the supply of Foundation Building Pills would multiply, giving them a certain opportunity.

    Currently, these Qi Refining Period cultivators valued the Foundation Building Pill the most. It was nearly impossible for them to break through to the Foundation Building Period on their own. That was exclusive to the geniuses. As for them, reality had already proven that they weren''t geniuses. If they were, they wouldn''t have be independent cultivators; they would have been recruited by sects and ns a long time ago.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, are you going to buy a Pill for Building Foundations?"

    "I''m not ready yet, I haven''t reached the Eighth Level of Qi Refining."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He had no intention of buying a Pill for Building Foundations, even though he could afford it now. His goal this time was to exchange for a new cultivation technique. If there were no Heavenly-level ones avable, at least a Earth-level one would do. After all, he didn''t find anything below Earth-level appealing.

    Even though I am not rich, it doesn''t mean I can''t have high standards, right?

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28

    "The crowds were tightly packed, like a surge of people."

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang looked at the crowd in front of him and couldn''t help but feel amazed. This centennial celebration had attracted countless cultivators toe. It made Yunzhong City extremely crowded.

    How crowded did it get? All the restaurants and inns in Yunzhong City werepletely full, even the ones that were temporarily converted and the homestays were also full. Some of the restaurants and inns outside of Yunzhong City were also full.

    In the streets, there were so many people, even in normally quiet areas. The guard teams in Yunzhong City couldn''t patrol on foot anymore. They had to use flying patrols instead. The Nascent Soul cultivators who were guarding the city remained alert at all times. They constantly scanned the entire city with their senses to deter any troublemakers.

    The spring came for the street vendors. When Lin Jiang arrived at the big market, Zhang Ruifeng and his sister, along with the beautiful young woman, had their stalls filled with people. It seemed that they were doing really well.

    Lin Jiang took out a special pendant and immediately people started asking about its price. This pendant, called a spiritual talisman, was considered a top-quality item at this big market. It was even better than the ones used by more advanced practitioners. Those items were usually not found at the market and were mostly traded in official stores.

    Soon, Lin Jiang''s stall was also crowded with people. He attracted a big group who were interested in his product. Naturally, Lin Jiang didn''t want to lower the price. Bargain deals were moremon in official stores and didn''t really apply to him and other small vendors.

    In less than two hours, Lin Jiang sold all the hundreds of spiritual talismans he had prepared, so he decided to call it a day.

    "Taoist friend Liu, the city of Yunzhong is now overcrowded, mostly by people at the Qi Refining Period. Their demand for food has skyrocketed. I suggest you go back and bring some food to sell. You might make even more money. You can give it a try."Lin Jiang was ready to leave, and kindly mentioned to the beautiful young woman, "Haven''t you noticed how all the food vendors at the market are extremely busy?"

    "Oh no, how did I forget about this?"

    The beautiful young woman pped her head and suddenly felt enlightened. Even if she sold all those talismans and simr items, she wouldn''t earn many spirit stones. But the demand for food was much higher. Even cultivators in the Qi Refining Period had to eat, just like ordinary people. With hundreds of thousands of Qi Refining Period cultivatorsing in, this would take a long time.

    "Thank you, Brother Jiang."

    Zhang Ruifeng, who was standing nearby, also heard it. He immediately thanked Lin Jiang with a beaming smile. He epted it faster and quickly ran off, probably to tell his family. Tomorrow he would sell food.

    Lin Jiang smiled and then left. Selling food would definitely be more profitable, but he wasn''t nning to do it. The reason was simplyziness. Food service was always tiring.

    Lin Jiang went to find the second-hand traders to buy information. During the grand festival in Yunzhong City, there were thousands of businesses, each offering their own preferential measures and holding numerous auctions. Some were organized by several businesses together, while others were held by a single business. For example, Duobao Pavilion, supported by the Cloud Sword Sect, had the strength to holdrge-scale auctions without the need for alliances.

    It was precisely because there were so many auctions and the like that a new business emerged: the second-hand traders who bought and sold information. They would specifically visit various businesses and then consolidate their activities to sell to those in need. It wasn''t expensive, just one spirit stone.

    "Duobao Pavilion three-day event details..."

    "Four Seas Trading Company joins seven businesses..."

    Lin Jiang got some news and started reading it carefully. He couldn''t participate in most of the activities of the major tradingpanies because they required a certain status called "Qi Refining Period." Even if he went, he wouldn''t be able to afford anything. The auctions for items of "golden core" and "Nascent Soul" levels would start from tens of thousands of spirit stones, which he couldn''t afford to join.

    Lin Jiang focused on the "Qi Refining" and "Building foundation" levels. There were many activities for this level since there were a lot of people at this level in the cultivation world. With more people, there would be more profit.

    "On the sixth day, there will be a special auction for martial arts and secret techniques, which is what I need. But I need to prove my qualifications, which is five thousand spirit stones."

    Lin Jiang quickly found the information he needed. Eight medium-sized tradingpanies, led by the Four Seas Trading Company, would hold an auction for martial arts and secret techniques on the sixth day.

    Thesepanies had evene up with a way to screen precise customers by checking their qualifications. If you didn''t have money, then don''t get involved. However, Lin Jiang was fine in this regard. He had brought about fifty thousand spirit stones with him. In the past two years, he had struggled to make ends meet, but recently, he had made a small profit and had over forty thousand spirit stones. After selling off the spiritual talismans in his possession, fifty thousand would barely be enough.

    Moreover, he had some valuable items with him. He still had the Green Rock Pill given by Lin Ying, which he hadn''t sold yet. Lin Jiang had inquired about the price of the Green Rock Pill. It was very expensive, and most of the time, people traded items for it instead of using spirit stones. If it were to be calcted in spirit stones, it would be worth at least eighty thousand or more. Perhaps at the auction, it could even sell for a higher price.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    On the second day of the festival, Lin Jiang sold all of his spiritual talismans early in the morning and then went to the Duobao Pavilion. However, he had changed his appearance and disguised himself as a neer to give the impression that he wasing for the first time. He dered that he had items to auction.

    When the Duobao Pavilion heard that Lin Jiang had the Green Rock Pill for auction, they became enthusiastic. The responsible steward checked the information and decided to include the Green Rock Pill in today''s auction.

    This way, Lin Jiang got a ticket to tonight''s auction and participated in the Duobao Pavilion''s auction for the day.

    The grand auditorium, which can amodate 500 people, waspletely full. Lin Jiang sat in the corner, watching the auction on stage. There were many great items being auctioned, which made Lin Jiang drool with desire. Unfortunately, he couldn''t afford to buy anything.

    This auction was mainly attended by Foundation Building Period cultivators, with only a few Qi Refining Period cultivators present. The items being auctioned were mostly in demand by Foundation Building Period cultivators, so naturally, the prices were high.

    "Now, we will proceed to auctioning the first highlight item. It is a Green Rock Pill. I believe everyone knows the effects of the Green Rock Pill. It can extend one''s lifespan by twenty years and its medicinal effects can surpass most other longevity treasures. Even if someone has taken somemon longevity treasures, this pill can still be effective."

    "This pill has been appraised by an expert from Duobao Pavilion. Its medicinal effects are well-preserved, though twenty years may not be guaranteed, eighteen years should definitely be achievable. So, we will start the bidding at a minimum price of seventy thousand spirit stones, with increments of no less than one thousand spirit stones. Let the auction begin."

    "Seventy-five thousand."

    "Seventy-six thousand."

    "Eighty thousand."

    As soon as the auctioneer finished speaking, people immediately started bidding. Lin Jiang had owned this Green Rock Pill for quite some time, so some of its medicinal effects had worn off, but not by much. More than ny percent of its effectiveness remained.

    The key was that longevity treasures were extremely rare. Whether it was a faction or an individual, most people who had such treasures would keep them for personal use. After all, no one would want to have fewer years of life. That was why the number of these treasures circting in the market was extremely scarce.

    In the blink of an eye, the price rose to a hundred thousand spirit stones. At this point, there were only three people still bidding, but their offers were not as fierce. They were adding a thousand each time.

    When the final price reached one hundred and twenty thousand, no one shouted any more bids. It wasn''t worth going any higher, as nobody knew if there would be any more treasures avable.

    However, in the end, Lin Jiang only got a hundred and fourteen thousand spirit stones. The remaining six thousand were taxes and fees, split between the auctioneer and the bidders, totaling twelve thousand, which was ten percent of the total cost.

    Holding the spirit stones, Duobao Pavilion''s people escorted Lin Jiang through a secret passage. This was to protect Lin Jiang, otherwise he would surely be targeted. During festivals like this, Yunzhong City would have many criminals and who knew how many people would be waiting outside, hoping to prey on unsuspecting victims.

    If one were to venture outside the city after a few months, there would probably be a mountain of bones. This was the brutality of the cultivation world. Even though it was dangerous, it could not stop the surging crowd of people. It was still uncertain whether these people were robbers or easy targets.

    On the third day, Lin Jiang already heard discussions about the tragic events outside the city at the crowded market. There were already hundreds of bodies discovered by Yunzhong City guards alone.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, the outskirts of the city have been too dangerous these days. Can I seek refuge at your ce for a few days?"

    The beautiful young woman, with her enchanting eyes, timidly looked at Lin Jiang. She lived outside the city and had tomute daily, which was extremely risky.

    "I''m sorry, Taoist friend Liu, it''s not very convenient."

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, I simply desire a ce to settle, with no other intentions."

    "Go ask Zhang Ruifeng, his sister Zhang Ruifang also lives alone, you can share with her."

    Lin Jiang refused again, he didn''t consider himself a noble person and couldn''t y the role of Liuxia Hui. Living together as a man and a woman, idents were bound to happen.

    Lin Jiang felt he had his limits, he would never get involved with someone close to him. Besides, he knew the nature of this beautiful young woman. If he got tangled up with her, he might not be able to escape. There was a beautiful forest in front of him, why hang himself on one tree?

    Rejected several times, the beautiful young woman stomped her foot in anger. But Lin Jiang remained firm, so she didn''t have the courage to continue bothering him. She really went to find Zhang Ruifeng, who immediately agreed, but he wanted money. He wouldn''t do it without money.

    On this day, Lin Jiang quickly sold out the spiritual talismans. He had prepared stock for two weeks, but it sold out in three days. Lin Jiang regretted not preparing more. This kind of prosperous time only came once in a lifetime. If this opportunity was missed, the store would be gone.

    Fortunately, there were still plenty of materials for drawing symbols. Lin Jiang immediately rushed back home and started working overtime on drawing symbols. What the heck was he drawing? He was drawing money.

    In the blink of an eye, several days had passed. The auction for Four Seas Trading Company''s secret martial arts techniques began. Lin Jiang arrived at the auction venue early, ready to acquire an advanced martial art tonight.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29

    Four Seas Trading Company

    In the auction hall, all three hundred seats were filled, and the sixteen private rooms surrounding it were also packed. Each person held a list with detailed information about tonight''s auction items, including all the basic information about the martial arts being auctioned tonight.

    The list clearly stated the name, grade, characteristics, and requirements of each martial art.

    Lin Jiang had already obtained a copy of this list. It wasn''t a secret. What caught Lin Jiang''s attention was a martial art called Sitting Zen ssic.

    Sitting Zen ssic was the most famous martial art in the cultivation world, with no equal. Some even said that Sitting Zen ssic was the foundation of all martial arts, the first martial art to appear in ancient times.

    This martial art emphasized bnce and moderation, avoiding extreme paths. It cultivated a rich spiritual energy and was suitable for practitioners with the Five Elements Spiritual Root of gold, wood, water, fire, or earth. It didn''t require any additional talents and was highly renowned in the cultivation world.

    However, the original version of Sitting Zen ssic had long been lost. Now, there were almost a hundred variations of Sitting Zen ssic circting in the cultivation world. These variations were created byter generations based on their own cultivation insights.

    Therefore, the grades of these Sitting Zen ssics varied. Some were lower Heaven-grade, some were Earth-grade, some were Mysterious-grade, and there were even some yellow-grade ones. The grade depended on the creator''s level of skill and the upper limit of the martial art.

    The Sitting Zen ssic being auctioned by Four Seas Trading Company this time was created by a Soul Changing Ancestor two thousand years ago. Its upper limit of cultivation reached thete stage of Soul Changing, and its grade reached middle Earth-grade.The earth grade cultivation method was outstanding. Even top sects like Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect had few earth grade cultivation methods. They were not something ordinary disciples could practice. Among independent cultivators, those who possessed earth grade cultivation methods were rare and exceptional.

    Besides the Sitting Zen ssic, Lin Jiang was also interested in a sword cultivation secret technique called One Sword Flying Immortal. It was created by the grandmaster of swordsmanship, Xiao Jian, who had achieved perfection in the Nascent Soul stage. He relied on his amazing swordsmanship skills, and One Sword Flying Immortal was one of his most famous techniques, very powerful.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    "Good evening, fellow Taoist friends. I am Zhang Ruohai from Four Seas Trading Company, and I am the auctioneer tonight. Ourpany, along with seven other trading firms, is hosting today''s auction. We have a total of sixteen cultivation methods and twenty-eight secret techniques, all of which have been jointly appraised by the evaluators from our eightpanies. We guarantee the quality and characteristics of these cultivation methods based on ourbined approval and the reputation of ourpanies."

    The auction began, and Zhang Ruohai, the manager of Four Seas Trading Company, took the stage to assure everyone that the origin and grade of these cultivation methods were reliable and had been appraised by them. They were guaranteed by the reputation of their tradingpany.

    "Alright, enough with the small talk. Let''s start the auction. The first item up for bidding is the Qingzhou cultivation method called ''Qing Thunder Art.'' This cultivation method is of high quality and requires a thunder-based spiritual root to practice..."

    Then, Zhang Ruohai introduced the first auction item, a cultivation method from another province, specifically a thunder-based cultivation method. Thunder-based spiritual roots were one of the three major rare spiritual roots, besides the five elements spiritual root.

    The five elements spiritual root was the mostmon, but these three rare spiritual roots, wind, thunder, and ice, were extremely powerful. Each had its own unique qualities.

    As soon as Zhang Ruohai finished speaking, people immediately started bidding. Though the number of bidders was not many, thepetition was intense. The bid quickly skyrocketed from fifteen thousand spirit stones to forty thousand spirit stones, ultimately ending at fifty-one thousand spirit stones.

    After the first item was auctioned, the second item quickly followed. However, the auctioning of martial arts techniques was different from other items. Other items were unique, such as pills, ores, and elixirs. Whoever owned them, they belonged to that person. But martial arts techniques were different; they could be duplicated.

    So, there was another way to auction off martial arts techniques secretly. For example, if one martial arts technique was duplicated ten times, then the secret bidding method was where everyone bid together, but could only bid once. The top ten bidders would win and share the item.

    This method had its pros and cons. The advantage was that the auctioneer could earn more spirit stones. The disadvantage was that if the martial arts techniques were too widely spread, their value would decrease.

    For example, if there were too many copies of an ordinary Sitting Zen ssic, it might only be worth ten spirit stones outside, and it could not be auctioned.

    One Sword Flying Immortal, which Lin Jiang was interested in, was ranked eighth in the auction. It was also auctioned secretly. The auctioneer duplicated fifteen copies, and as long as the bid was higher than the top fifteen, it could be won.

    Lin Jiang wrote down "5,000 spirit stones" but quickly erased it and wrote "8,000 spirit stones" instead, handing it to the staff.

    In the time it took to finish a cup of tea, Zhang Ruohai announced the results. The fifteenth highest bid was 7,500 spirit stones. Those who bid higher than this number could contact the staff of thepany to pay and obtain the technique.

    Some people didn''t need to bid on the next items and left directly after paying. Lin Jiang still wanted to bid on the Sitting Zen ssic and stayed put.

    One item after another, they finally came to the auction of the Sitting Zen ssic. Zhang Ruoxu held up a jade scroll and said, "I believe everyone is familiar with the Sitting Zen ssic. Many sects and families have at least eight of the ten versions. The Sitting Zen ssic in my handses from our Yun State''s former ancestor, Soul Changing Ancestor Yun Xu. So, our appraisal rates it as an earth-grade medium-quality item."

    The way this item is being auctioned is still through a secret auction. There are a total of thirty copies, with a starting price of 30,000 spirit stones. Please, my Taoist friends, make your bids, and take your time to consider it while drinking a cup of tea."

    When Zhang Ruoxu spoke, Lin Jiang immediately wrote down the maximum amount he could offer, which was 80,000 spirit stones. If it went over that amount, he didn''t think it was worth it anymore.

    There were many people bidding this time. More than half of the cultivators in the field made bids because an earth-grade cultivation method could add strength to their own influence, even if they didn''t practice it themselves. Just in case their future generations needed it, you know?

    "The auction for the Sitting Zen ssic is now over. Taoist friends who bid 78,000 spirit stones or more, please contact the representative of thepany to pay and receive the cultivation method."

    Zhang Ruoxu quickly had someone tally up everyone''s bids. When Lin Jiang heard the prices, he immediately felt relieved and got up, ready to leave.

    "Taoist friend, I am willing to offer 50,000 spirit stones. Could you do me a favor?"

    "Taoist friend, I bid 45,000 spirit stones. Could you make a copy of the cultivation method for me?"

    "Taoist friendбдбдбдбд"

    As soon as Lin Jiang stood up, he immediately received more than ten voice transmissions, all of them wanting to buy the cultivation method through him. It wasn''t just him; other people were experiencing the same thing.

    But Lin Jiang didn''t say a word and just left. The others did the same. Why did Lin Jiang and his friends refuse to sell their techniques to these people? In theory, techniques could be endlessly copied and sold, making them a lot of money.

    The reason was for their own safety. Each technique had its own strengths and weaknesses. By studying the techniques, they could find the weaknesses of others. If they were to fight against someone, they could use these weaknesses to defeat them. So, for the sake of their own lives, they didn''t want to sell their techniques for just a little money. Who could guarantee that they wouldn''t have to fight against these people in the future?

    Could there be people who intentionally make money by not practicing these techniques? Yes, there could be, but they were very few. If Lin Jiang didn''t practice the Sitting Zen ssic and sold the technique, that was also possible.

    However, by doing so, Lin Jiang would offend the other twenty-nine people. His actions had already put their safety at risk. In the world of cultivation, when faced with such situations, there was no reasoning; it became a matter of swords and knives. Unless you had the ability to not fear those twenty-nine people, you shouldn''t easily do such things.

    Lin Jiang went backstage where the staff of the store were already waiting. He started trading spirit stones. Besides the price, he also had to pay an additional 5% fee. Nearly one hundred thousand spirit stones were exchanged.

    After acquiring the technique, with the store staff escorting him, Lin Jiang left through a secret passage. Instead of going straight home, he went to the market, moving through the dense crowd, constantly checking if anyone was following him. Once he made sure no one was tracking him, Lin Jiang went back home.

    "The Sitting Zen ssic is definitely different from the others."

    In Lin Jiang''s home, there were thirteen copies of the Sitting Zen ssic in front of him. Besides the one he just bought, the other twelve were purchased from elsewhere. The most expensive one was only thirty spirit stones.

    All thirteen copies of the Sitting Zen ssic had the same content during the Qi Refining Period, but above the Foundation Building Period, they werepletely different. The techniques were full of personal style and had powerful unique features.

    This also proved that the Sitting Zen ssic had a strong shaping effect. It also confirmed the safety of practicing this technique. Since there were so many variations of the technique, unless someone knew you very well and purposely found a way to counterattack using the same technique, no one would know which version you were practicing and they wouldn''t be able to exploit your weaknesses.

    "After the celebration ends, I''ll immediately start improving the Sitting Zen ssic. Until I reach the Soul Changing period, I don''t have to worry about the technique anymore. But if I have the chance, I should look for even more powerful techniques."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang made up his mind to improve his skills. He decided to start after the celebration ended. In the meantime, his main focus was on making money. If he missed this opportunity, he would have to wait another hundred years.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, are you going home again?"

    At the bustling market in Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang quickly sold out his spiritual talismans. The beautiful young woman next to him asked, her face filled with envy.

    "Not bad, Taoist friend Liu. I''ll be leaving now."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. After years of setting up a stall at the market, he had gained some reputation. Moreover, his spiritual talismans were of the highest quality, so they were selling out at an extremely fast pace these days.

    Of course, this also depended on the quantity of goods. Now, Lin Jiang had pushed himself to the limit. He could only draw around seven spiritual talismans a day. What could he sell with just seven talismans? They would be sold out in less than an hour.

    Now, Lin Jiang regretted not stocking up on more spiritual talismans. He also regretted selling the previous first-grade middle-quality spiritual talismans to themercial firm. Otherwise, he would have earned hundreds of extra spirit stones for no reason.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang"

    Just as Lin Jiang arrived at his doorstep, a sudden unfamiliar voice sounded. Lin Jiang realized something was wrong, but it was already toote. Someone appeared beside Lin Jiang in a swift motion, with something hard pressed against his waist.

    "Don''t move. With the Qianque Crossbow in my hand, even if you have treasures on you, it can pierce through your body and destroy your dantian."A chilling voice came, making Lin Jiang''s heart tighten. Then, another person approached, hugging Lin Jiang''s shoulder, acting very familiar.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, you wouldn''t want your energy center to be shattered, would you?"

    "Gentlemen, did I offend you in any way?"

    "Stop talking nonsense, open the door ande inside."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang opened his protective barrier and then opened the door to go inside.

    Lin Jiang finally saw the faces of the two people clearly. He recognized one of them, called Mo Lin. Mo Lin was a vendor at the big market and also one of the rich woman''s followers.

    "Dear Taoist friend, I don''t know when I offended you all."

    "Hehe, Mr. Jiang, you didn''t offend me."

    "Then why are you treating me like this?"

    "Of course, we have our eyes on your valuable spirit stone."

    Mo Lin sneered and then took Lin Jiang''s storage bag. He looked inside and a look of surprise appeared on his face. He found that Lin Jiang''s storage bag was a super-sized one, worth at least seven to eight thousand spirit stone. It was much more valuable than the trash they had on them.

    "He really is rich, to be able to afford a super-sized storage bag."

    "Quickly ask him to open the storage bag."

    "No need, just kill him slowly."

    "Wait a moment."

    Lin Jiang saw that they were about to attack, so he immediately spoke.

    "What, do you have anyst words?"

    "Yes, even if I die, I want to understand how you knew I lived here."

    Lin Jiang said, he was a very cautious person, even though he had been setting up stalls with the beautiful young woman and Zhang Ruifeng for years, he had never revealed where he lived, he shouldn''t have exposed himself.

    "Hehe, you guess."

    "Taoist Friend Mo, I have no other intentions, I just want to know who I offended, let me understand before I die."

    "Since you sincerely asked, I will let you understand. I have been watching you for several years. It''s not just me who knows you have money, half the street at the market knows you have money. You damn well leave after less than four hours of setting up your stall, wasting stall fees for nothing, without any savings, how is that possible?"

    "Wow, you must be really rich to live alone in such an expensive house in Yunzhong City. I didn''t dare to mess with you before because I knew you were more powerful than me. But now, I''m also in theter stage of Qi refining. So, who''s afraid of who?"

    "I don''t think I''ve ever revealed where I live."

    "Of course, someone told me."

    "Who?"

    "Haha, nice try to trick me, but no way! I''m not foolish. Once you''re dead, I''ll dly tell you who it was. Prepare yourself."

    Mo Linughed and said. He was not stupid. Anyone who could survive in the lower levels of Yunzhong City must be smart.

    As soon as Mo Lin finished speaking, Lin Jiang attacked. Without his storage bag, he lost his flying sword, but he still had his silver needle tool hidden on his body.

    "Explosive Element Technique, explode!"

    With a loud shout, Lin Jiang''s spiritual power surged in a mysterious manner, increasing his strength by ten times.

    "Ding"

    Two silver needles flew out, one of them pierced Mo Lin''s forehead directly, while the other one collided with an arrow in another person''s hand. The arrow hit by the needle deviated from its original path towards Lin Jiang. The needle also flew away, and nobody knew where it went.

    "Karate chop, explode for me!"

    Lin Jiang shouted again and struck with a palm. The powerful force went through the person''s body from several meters away and sent him flying like a deted basketball, crashing into the wall, leaving behind a pool of blood before sliding down.

    Lin Jiang looked coldly at him. His chest hadpletely caved in, and although he hadn''t died yet, his body twitched spasmodically, clearly beyond saving.

    "Snap"

    Only now did Mo Lin''s bodypletely lose its life, falling heavily to the ground.

    "Fortunately, I had learned some martial arts before."

    Lin Jiang sighed. The karate chop was a mortal martial technique, but he, as a cultivator, still wielded it with great power. Of course, this was also due to him using the Explosive Element Technique, which increased its strength tenfold.

    And the cost he paid was two hundred years of lifespan, but was that a lot? Even with a reduction of two hundred years, he still had over twenty thousand years of lifespan, which was irrelevant.

    Lin Jiang stepped forward, took back the storage bag, took out the flying sword, and then made sure to be cautious. He didn''t want to make any mistakes. He continued until they werepletely dead, and then he stopped.

    Lin Jiang took off their storage bags and used his divine sense to erase the imprints on them. Because the original owners had already died, it only took him two hours to erase the imprints on both storage bags.

    "Two poor guys."

    Lin Jiang poured out the contents of the storage bag and couldn''t help but curse.

    The two of them had very few things. In total, they had less than one thousand spirit stones, two flying swords, a few bottles of elixirs, a few medicinal herbs, and various other misceneous things. There were even some dry rations. The total value would not exceed eight thousand spirit stones. Compared to Lin Jiang''s wealth, it was not an insult to call them poor.

    Of course, this was the normal state for ordinary cultivators in Yunzhong City. Lin Jiang was the abnormal one. His wealth had been umted over the past hundred years. If Lin Jiang were the same age as them, he wouldn''t be much wealthier than them.

    "I''m a damn good person who takes care of both killing and burying."

    Lin Jiang dug a hole in the yard and buried the two of them. He also threw in everything from their belongings that could easily expose their identities. Then he covered it with soil and even transnted a tree. It looked like nothing had happened.

    "Who could be targeting me and exposing my whereabouts to them?"

    After Lin Jiang tidied up everything, he returned to his room and pondered over this question. Clearly, these two people were not the masterminds behind it all. The real culprit was someone else, as they themselves admitted.

    If Lin Jiang didn''t eliminate this problem, he would feel restless. After all, there was no such thing as being too prepared. He didn''t know who the mastermind was. What if they tried to break into his home again? Next time, he might not be so lucky.

    "Mo Lin is an independent cultivator at the big market. He knows I have money, but doesn''t know where I live. He has been keeping an eye on me for years. Besides the fact that his cultivation is not as advanced as mine, he probably doesn''t know where I live because the market is not a good ce to make a move."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "As for who knows where I live, there shouldn''t be anyone in the market. Or maybe there should be one person - my former neighbor, Taoist Friend Zhang. But Taoist Friend Zhang has been dead for many years now."

    "Few others know where I live, most likely just the neighbors around here. Even though I keep to myself, I have been living here for many years. If the neighbors happen to know those people, then it all makes sense. But who could it be?"

    Lin Jiang analyzed the situation carefully. He thought that the mastermind behind it all should be one of his neighbors. At least, the probability was quite high. But he still didn''t know who it was.

    "Whoever it may be, once this is resolved, I will have to move. It''s too risky to stay in one ce for too long. Just the fact that I live alone in a yard is enough to give away my wealth and arouse greed in some people. Other neighbors may also have the thought of killing for treasure."

    Lin Jiang pondered for a long time, but still didn''t find any useful clues. Whoever the real culprit was, after this incident, Lin Jiang wanted to move to a new home. It was dangerous to stay in one ce for too long. If he lived for another hundred years, even his secrets could be exposed.

    "Learn another advanced Disguise Skill, and then move homes every three to five years. Yunzhong City is so big, it''s enough for me to move dozens of times. If I have nowhere else to go, I''ll make a n then."

    Lin Jiang quickly made up his mind. He also needed a special skill for disguises, a very advanced one. He already knew the basic kind, but now he needed to move frequently to keep himself safe.

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31

    Yunzhong City Market

    "It''s thest day of the celebration, and there are noticeably fewer people."

    "Don''t leave the city today. I heard that there''s chaos outside, with bloodshed everywhere."

    "I heard the same. Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are furious. They both gathered five hundred disciples to patrol outside the city, led by a Nascent Soul Ancestor. But it''s not effective at all. They patrol within a twenty-mile radius, while the bandits who kill and loot are operating twenty miles away."

    Today, everyone''s goods were selling quickly. They gathered together to chat. The beautiful young woman and Zhang Ruifeng were both social butterflies, and they had a widework of information. They knew a lot of things.

    Since the first day of the celebration, there had been constant incidents of killing and looting outside the city. Today was definitely the craziest. Yunzhong City had high prices, and amodation was not cheap. Cultivators from outside had to hurry back, which had led to arge number of bandits.

    These bandits were robbing pedestrians like crazy, not even sparing the disciples from Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect who were alone. They had no fear and had angered the two sects. They gathered their elite disciples and expanded the guards'' patrol range to twenty miles outside the city.

    But it was still useless. The prospect of huge profits had led to countless reckless individuals. They were driven by greed. If you patrolled twenty miles, they would ambush at thirty or forty miles away. The bottom line was that they wanted to rob.

    "Several familiar Taoist friends have disappeared from the big market."The beautiful young woman said that she used to have many "licking dogs" (followers who tter her), but several of them have disappeared, which made her worried. Without those "licking dogs", her ie has decreased sharply.

    "Brother Jiang, how much money did you make this time?"

    "Not many spirit stones."

    "That''s a lie! You made the most! In the past half month, you sold at least a few hundred spiritual talismans."

    Zhang Ruifeng shook his head. He didn''t believe it. He knew that Lin Jiang always arrivedte and left early. The spiritual talismans were always sold out. Selling one spiritual talisman earned seven or eight spirit stones, so he must have made thousands of spirit stones at least.

    "Not as many as you guys."

    Lin Jiang also shook his head. Zhang Ruifeng''s words surprised him. How could he forget that these two also knew about his ie?

    In the past half month, Lin Jiang did sell quite a few spiritual talismans. He had been preparing them since the beginning of the month. He drew about two hundred spiritual talismans in this month and made a profit of about one thousand five hundred spirit stones.

    1500 was not a lot in his eyes, but for Zhang Ruifeng and the prettydy, it was a huge amount. They felt that earning three to five hundred in half a month was already quite a lot.

    This was also true for others. The poverty of the lower-level independent cultivators was not just a rumor. They were all very poor. This meant that Lin Jiang was already showing his wealth. These people might not be Lin Jiang''s match, but they might have some strong and formidable friends.

    "When the lease term for this booth is up, I have to move to another ce."

    Lin Jiang made up his mind. Yunzhong City had three big markets, and this one was just one of them. He chose this ce because it was closest to where he lived. In the future, he could move somewhere farther away, or even rent a shop. Inside the shop, others would not be able to see how much money he was making.

    When Zhang Ruifeng mentioned ie, the prettydy also got excited. Her spiritual grass and spiritual talisman weren''t worth much, and moreover, she didn''t go back home or let her family deliver goods for safety reasons. Following Lin Jiang''s suggestion, she switched to the food and beverage business and ended up earning more money than expected.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, thank you for your guidance this time. Without you, I wouldn''t have been able to earn so many spirit stones. How about I treat you to a drink tonight?"

    "I''m not really fond of drinking. Thanks anyway."

    "Nonsense! I''ve seen you drinking frequently, Taoist Friend Jiang. Are you looking down on me?"

    "Um..."

    Lin Jiang was sweating. He wasn''t rejecting the idea, but he was afraid of trouble. He preferred to solve things with money rather than emotions. If he got involved, it would be troublesome.

    "Brother Jiang, please agree. I want to treat you to a meal. I''ve earned a lot of money thanks to your advice."

    "Actually, I was just speaking casually."

    "No, we''re grateful for your kindness. My parents also want to meet you. You''re the first friend I made at the market. Sister, say something too."

    "Brother..."

    Zhang Ruifang blushed and could only say "brother." This request was too difficult for someone with social anxiety.

    Lin Jiang had no choice but to ept the kind invitation. He was afraid of drinking alone with the beautiful young woman. However, if Zhang Ruifeng and others joined, it would be easier. It wouldn''t give the woman a chance to take advantage of him, or else he was afraid of losing his reputation.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, I''ve been hearing about you from Ruifeng for several years. We never had the opportunity to meet, but I''ve admired you for a long time."

    Two dayster, at a restaurant in Yunzhong City, Zhang Ruifeng''s father raised a ss to Lin Jiang and said.

    Zhang Ruifeng talked a lot and he told his family about the things at the big market. So the Zhang family had always known about Lin Jiang. Of course, the Zhang family''s biggest impression of him was that he was good at drawing symbols and had a calm attitude.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, look, I told you, you are quite popr at our big market."

    A beautiful young woman beside them also came over with a ss. Lin Jiang sensed something was wrong. Were they trying to get him drunk?

    "You''re too kind. I''m just a modest cultivator who has been practicing for many years with just a little bit of achievement."

    "If you''re a modest cultivator, what does that make us?"

    "Haha, no need for formalities. Let''s eat, so we don''t waste any food."

    Lin Jiangughed awkwardly. He realized that he wasn''t very good at socializing in this kind of situation. He had been living alone for too long, and it had greatly affected his personality.

    The beautiful young woman wasfortable in this kind of setting, and her presence created a rxed atmosphere. Lin Jiang took the opportunity to look around and noticed that after the festive celebrations ended, the restaurants and inns in Yunzhong City had entered a brief period of decline. It seemed that people had spent too much in the previous half month.

    After two hours, Lin Jiang said goodbye to them and walked back home, but he still took many turns. Since he was robbed in his house before, Lin Jiang became more cautious and tried his best not to let others know his address, to avoid being watched.

    "Taoist friend Jiang"

    "Taoist friend Jiang"

    When he arrived at his doorstep, Lin Jiang met his neighbor Jiang Feng. Jiang Feng seemed to be seeing off a friend and greeted Lin Jiang when he saw him.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, are you justing back?"

    "Yes, is Taoist Friend Jiang Feng also seeing off a friend?"

    "Yes, these are a few new friends I just met. We are going to have a drink tonight and discuss about cultivation. Taoist Friend Jiang, you must be very busy, we barely see each other throughout the year."

    "Taoist Friend Jiang Feng, you are also a very busy person. I haven''t seen you many times, but your cultivation has grown rapidly. You are already in theter stage of Qi Refining."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "It''s just luck. I have been practicing diligently for many years."

    "Everyone is the same."

    "Yes."

    "Then I won''t disturb you."

    "Okay, if we have the chance, let''s have a drink together. I have many friends and we have formed our own little group. Sometimes we chat and even exchange some items. If Taoist Friend Jiang is interested, you can join us."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded, opened the formation, and then walked into the house.

    "Could it be him?"

    Sitting on the bed, Lin Jiang recalled Jiang Feng just now. He didn''t me him for suspecting anyone, but this time Lin Jiang was indeed wary. The true mastermind behind the scenes was not found, and it made him restless.

    A few years ago, Jiang Feng was still at the mid-stage of Qi Refining. In these past years, he had made progress. It was uncertain what he did, what skills he had, or how much ie he had. Most treasure hunters didn''t have any profitable expertise and were just scraping by.

    However, Jiang Feng does seem somewhat suspicious. He just said that he only sees me a few times a year. Is he always watching me?

    Lin Jiang patiently analyzed and, whether it was true or not, Jiang Feng had entered his list of suspects. Now Lin Jiang was suspicious of everyone around him.

    They said "You can''t judge a person by appearance alone". Many people might look honest on the outside, but inside they had bad intentions. It was inevitable for Lin Jiang to suspect everyone now.

    "There''s a saying that thievesst a thousand days, but guards must be vignt every day. Since we can''t find them, we should lure them out, like baiting a snake toe out of its hole."

    After much hesitation, Lin Jiang decided to take a risk and y the baiting game. He wanted to see who was targeting him.

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32

    Outside Yunzhong City

    Lin Jiang confidently walked out of the city gate. After half a month, he decided to lure out the snake, so he made some preparations in advance. While talking to Zhang Ruifeng, the beautiful woman, and his neighbor Jiang Feng, he deliberately mentioned how expensive the rent in Yunzhong City was. He decided to look for a cave outside the city or buy a piece ofnd under the control of a force.

    This was also the choice of many cultivators in Yunzhong City, especially those with some strength. After all, the rent in Yunzhong City was really expensive, costing four thousand spirit stones. Outside the city, you could buy arge piece ofnd with that amount, but in the city, it only covered one year''s worth of rent.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Of course, this had advantages and disadvantages. The city was safe because the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect took Yunzhong City very seriously and had strict rules. If anyone dared to kill in the city, the two sects would join forces to pursue and kill them. In over a thousand years of history, there was once a Nascent Soul Ancestor who broke the rules and was chased to death by the two sects. As for those below Nascent Soul, there were countless of them, and no one had dared to kill in the city for hundreds of years.

    But it was different outside the city. Safety was not as high because even under the control of certain forces, they were not as strong and didn''t have enough people to manage.

    Therefore, those who settled outside the city were either powerful and confident individuals, or they were locals with no other choice. Most outside cultivators lived in the city.

    Lin Jiang spread the news in advance and contacted the real estate agents in the city. So when he stepped out, a mid-stage Qi Refining cultivator came forward to greet him. He was the real estate agent that Lin Jiang had contacted.

    With great enthusiasm, he took Lin Jiang around outside the city and introduced him to the surroundings. Within ten miles of Yunzhong City''s city wall, it all belonged to Yunzhong City. No one was allowed to stay there long-term, not even trees. The view was vast, all for defense purposes.Two hundred miles behind Yunzhong City was the Yunzhong Mountain Range. The beginning and end of the mountain range were upied by the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect. The middle part had be a ce for independent cultivators to settle. The environment there was also harsh, with low spiritual energy, which was why the two sects disdained it.

    So, the vast territory from the middle of the Yunzhong Mountain Range to ten miles outside of Yunzhong City was upied by numerous small and medium-sized forces, as well as independent cultivators. It was chaotic, but in an orderly manner.

    The poption of Yunzhong City was increasing, and the cost of living was getting higher. Many cultivators couldn''t bear it, so they could only settle outside. The stronger forces had established many cultivator viges for them to live in.

    Some viges''nd could not be sold, only rented out, while some could be traded depending on the rules of different powers. Therefore, professional people were needed to lead, giving birth to the real estate intermediaries in the world of cultivation.

    Lin Jiang followed this person and went to see the house seriously. Of course, Lin Jiang couldn''t move out, he valued his life very much. Even if he had to pay more money, he had to prioritize safety.

    That night, Lin Jiang didn''t return to Yunzhong City. Instead, he stayed in an inn in a vige outside the city. The next morning, Lin Jiang told the real estate agent that he wanted to go back and consider, so he went back first.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, Taoist friend Jiang, help!"

    While flying, suddenly, a voice came from ahead. Lin Jiang looked up and saw that it was his neighbor, Jiang Feng. He looked flustered, as if being chased by someone.

    "Friend of Jiang Feng, what''s wrong, what''s wrong?"

    Lin Jiang pretended to be shocked and asked loudly.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, I''m being chased, please save me!"

    Jiang Feng shouted out, and as he spoke, three people appeared behind him. Judging from their aura, they were all at theter stage of Qi Refining, and there was even one person at the realm of Qi Refining Perfection.

    "Hey, friend Jiang Feng, you''re going to get me killed."

    "Run quickly!"

    "Yes, yes, run quickly!"

    Like this, Lin Jiang followed Jiang Feng and ran towards the direction outside Yunzhong City.

    Before long, the two flew hundreds of miles. The surrounding area was deserted mountains. Suddenly, Jiang Feng, who was next to Lin Jiang, attacked him. Since they were close, he used a crossbow arrow and shot it towards Lin Jiang''s throat.

    Lin Jiang was prepared early and dodged the arrow, which brushed past his neck, startling him and causing him to break into a cold sweat.

    "Jiang Feng, my Taoist friend, what are you doing?"

    "What am I doing? I want your life!"

    Jiang Feng summoned a flying sword and attacked Lin Jiang with extremely cruel methods.

    "Why? I haven''t offended you!"

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly, while using a shield to desperately block Jiang Feng''s attacks.

    "Haha, I''ll answer why. Because we have targeted you, Mr. Jiang. Surrender, as your Qi Refining level seven is no match for the four of us."

    A big man caught up, and the other two approached from both sides,pletely surrounding Lin Jiang.

    "Why are you targeting me? I haven''t done anything to offend you."

    Lin Jiang''s acting skills burst forth as he showed a frightened and helpless expression, followed by anger. Even he wanted to give himself a round of apuse for his performance.

    "Stop the nonsense. It''s because you have money. You live alone in a house with a rent of four thousand a year. How many years have you been living here, wasting so much of my money."

    "That''s my money, not yours."

    "Hehe, from today onwards, it belongs to me. Stop talking."

    "Jiang Feng, aren''t you afraid of my sect''s elders seeking revenge if you kill me?"

    "Why are you pretending? I''ve been watching you since the first day we became neighbors. If you have any mentors or elders, why haven''t theye to visit you for so many years?"

    Jiang Feng said coldly, he was rich, independent, and had no friends. Wasn''t he just the perfect target in their eyes, someone who could easily be taken advantage of?

    "Ah, now I remember. You must be the one who killed Taoist Friend Zhang before."

    "Haha, you''re right. I killed him. So what? Do you want to avenge him?"

    "Why are you all so ruthless? If you want spirit stones, go and earn them yourself. Why resort to robbery and murder?"

    "Is this Jiang guy''s brain malfunctioning? It''s so difficult to make money. We don''t have the luxury of time for our kind of business."

    "Boss, stop wasting time with him. Who knows if someone else mighte around here soon. Let''s kill him, take his storage bag, and leave."

    "Alright, everyone, let''s attack together. We''ll go to Happy Forest tonight, and I''ll treat everyone."

    The leader of the group chuckled, while the others, including Jiang Feng, revealed a wicked smile. Happy Forest was famous in Yunzhong City, and the women there all shared one characteristic - they were beautiful.

    "Wait a moment, one final question, let me understand clearly."

    "Haha, I am happy today, what do you say?"

    "A while ago, two people came to kill me, did you instruct them?"

    "Has someone touched our sheep, Jiang Feng?"

    The leader said to Jiang Feng, who looked confused, indicating he didn''t know.

    Lin Jiang became even more confused, realizing that Jiang Feng and his group were not instructed by Mo Lin, but there was someone else behind them?

    "Oh my, how many people are targeting me?"

    Lin Jiang felt very speechless, wasn''t he being low-key enough in Yunzhong City, how did he manage to provoke so many people?

    "It seems our sheep are very fat, attracting the attention of others. Regardless, I''m determined to take this sheep, let''s do it."

    The leader hesitated for a moment, then made up his mind to take action.

    In an instant, four flying swords stabbed towards Lin Jiang, sealing off every direction.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique, explode for me!"

    At this point, Lin Jiang stopped pretending. Tired of acting, he immediately brought out his own flying sword, activating a secret technique, the One Sword Flying Immortal.

    Although Lin Jiang had only been practicing the One Sword Flying Immortal for less than a month, he only had the basics andcked mastery. However, with the added power of the Explosive Element Technique, it still became extremely fierce. The flying sword directly knocked away the leader''s flying sword, and then continued its momentum towards the leader.

    The leader''s face changed, and he summoned a shield spell to defend himself. "Boom!" But in the next second, the shield spell shattered, and the flying sword cut across his neck, separating his head from his body.

    "Boom, boom!"

    Lin Jiang activated a defensive spiritual talisman, and three flying swords stabbed at the protective shield formed by the talisman, perfectly blocking the flying swords.

    "Big brother"

    "Big brother"

    "My n failed, let''s retreat quickly"

    The three of them were extremely terrified. Their eldest brother, who had reached the advanced stage of Qi Refining, couldn''t withstand a single move and was killed. How terrifying was this strength? Wasn''t this supposed to be Qi Refining Level 7? It must be the Building Foundation Period.

    The three of them reacted swiftly. Without saying a word, they split up and fled in three different directions.

    "Big Idiot, Small Idiot, get to work and kill them"

    Lin Jiang pped his Spirit Beast Bag and released two Aurora falcons. He had been raising them for years, even though he only fed them the cheapest spiritual beast meat and never gave them a chance to fly freely. Yet, their strength continued to increase, and they were now at the peak of thete first stage.

    The Aurora falcons, understanding human sentiment, turned into a white light and flew away. Meanwhile, Lin Jiang chased after Jiang Feng and directly threw a stack of spiritual talismans, forcing Jiang Feng to stop and defend himself.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, it''s a misunderstanding, all of this is a misunderstanding"

    "It''s a misunderstanding, but I don''t misunderstand. Today I''m here to kill you."

    "I''ll fight you."

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang once again used the Boom Boom Technique, sacrificing another hundred years of life force. With one swing of his sword, he cut down Jiang Feng. He didn''t have time to y a slow battle with this person, anyway life force isn''t valuable.

    After picking up Jiang Feng''s storage bag and flying sword, Lin Jiang flew back and took the big man''s storage bag and flying sword as well. Then he went to see the intense fight between Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    The fight between the Aurora falcons was very primal and simple. They would first fly high into the sky, then dive down at amazing speed, swooping past their target. With one swipe of their ws, even if the other person had summoned a magical tool, it would break into pieces.

    After several rounds of this, when both of them ran out of magical tools, they were torn apart by the Aurora falcons'' piercing attack. Even their heads were shattered, it was extremely bloody.

    "It''s too wasteful, don''t y like this next time. After breaking the magical tools, just use the bird''s beak to peck. I know you can do it."

    Lin Jiang said to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, they held back because they had been suppressed for too long. Otherwise, the battle would have been resolved long ago.

    "Chirp chirp"

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were very unhappy. They had been locked up for many years and were not allowed to y for a while.

    "Alright, alright. Since you two did a great job today, I''ll let you y outside for a day. Is that okay?"

    Lin Jiang said as he took out some jerky he had with him and gave a piece to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Then he let them go and y.

    Lin Jiang had been in Yunzhong City for many years and hadn''t explored the surroundings. He wanted to stroll around and rx a bit.

    The bags of the other two people were also put away. As for the bodies, they didn''t care. There were plenty of wild beasts in the wilderness, and they would finish it in less than two days. Moreover, there was no government in this world, so who woulde and investigate?

    Lin Jiang found a secluded ce and counted their gains from this trip. The four of them were much wealthier than Mo Lin and the others. They found over five thousand spirit stones alone, as well as various pills and materials. Lin Jiang estimated the total value to be around fifteen to sixteen thousand, with about five to six thousand spirit stones per person.

    "These martial arts techniques are quite good. I can practice them when I have free time."

    Among their belongings, Lin Jiang also found over ten jade scrolls, which contained some secret martial arts techniques. They were all at the yellow rank level, but better than the usual ones. If he had time, Lin Jiang thought it would be worth practicing them. One can never have too many skills, after all.

    "Oh no, the Shadiao guys caused trouble and actually asked for help."

    Lin Jiang had just finished organizing his spoils and was preparing to find a ce to wander around, when suddenly he sensed the Shadiao''s plea for help. Lin Jiang had signed a master-servant contract with them, allowing the Shadiao tomunicate simple information to Lin Jiang through their minds. In the past, they only said they were hungry, but this time, they were actually asking for help.

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33

    Outside Yunzhong City, arge captured the Big Shadiao. The Big Shadiao realized the danger and struggled desperately, pecking and tearing with its mouth and ws, but therge waspletely invulnerable.

    There were five to six cultivators scattered around the, constantly shouting and scaring the Big Shadiao. Their goal was to exhaust the Big Shadiao so that they could capture it alive.

    "Chirp chirp."

    The Small Shadiao circled high in the sky, making a mournful cry. It had a deep wound on its abdomen, still bleeding, but it dared not dive down to rescue the Big Shadiao because there was a person standing below, giving it a deep sense of threat.

    "Uncle He, when can we catch that beast?"

    Outside the crowd, there was also a person dressed in luxurious clothing,zily gazing at the small bird in the sky, with a face full of greed.

    "Don''t worry, young master. This creature is tired and we will have it very soon."

    The middle-aged man facing Small Shadiao said, Small Shadiao didn''t want to leave. Perfect! If we capture both Aurora falcons, the young master will surely reward us generously.

    "Hurry up, I can''t wait any longer."Young Master He said, this Aurora falcon looks incredibly magnificent. Just one look and he fell in love with it. It''s much better than the beast pet he had before. He must get his hands on it.

    "Yes, young master."

    The middle-aged man said, he knew Young Master He''s temper. Since he said so, they must capture the Aurora falcon today.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Lin Jiang stuck on an invisibility charm and secretly approached the vicinity of the Aurora falcon. He saw Big Shadiao being captured and Small Shadiao in great distress, feeling a bit anxious himself.

    "Nine people, is the one in the Building Foundation Period?"

    Lin Jiang saw those bad people again, and one of them had the aura of a beginner in the field of building foundations. He had encountered many such auras in Yunzhong City over the years, so he was very familiar with this kind of energy.

    "Is that finely dressed man their leader?"

    Lin Jiang continued to analyze their clothing and positions. The finely dressed man seemed to be the leader of these people, and it was highly likely that he was the young master of a prominent family, while the others were servants.

    "Is it worth it for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao?"

    Lin Jiang began to hesitate. This group of people was clearly not easy to deal with. Not only did they have someone at the beginner level in the field of building foundations, but they also had four people in theter stage of Qi Refining, while the remaining five were in the middle stage of Qi Refining. Their strength already exceeded what Lin Jiang could handle.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I must save them. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are not only thest thoughts I have for the Lin family, but also mymitment to the path. Though I have an endless lifespan, I still have a heart devoted to the path. If I give up my own interests because the enemy is too strong, then mymitment to the path is too weak."

    "Amitment to the path is amitment to be stronger. The heart devoted to the path must remain steadfast."

    "Besides, I''m not weak either. Even though I''m only at the seventh level of Qi Refining, I have the Explosive Element Technique. I have tens of thousands of years of lifespan. Isn''t that what it is, just lifespan? I don''t care about that."

    After reflecting for a moment, Lin Jiang''s gaze immediately became resolute. No amount of danger could damage hismitment to the path.

    Of course, Lin Jiang didn''t use brute force. He had a n. First, he would capture the young man in fancy clothes, and then he would rescue Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Once that was done, the Explosive Element Technique wouldn''t stand a chance, and they could escape.

    Lin Jiang silently hid, keeping a distance of over five hundred meters from the Building Foundation Period. Within his range of awareness, he was temporarily safe. When the Building Foundation Period moved away, it would be time for him to take action.

    The opportunity came quickly. With the young man in fancy clothes urging him on, the middle-aged man finally cast his spell and took off to chase Small Shadiao. The Aurora falcon, a powerful bird of prey, could fly very high. It wasn''t as simple as a few hundred meters.

    "Charge!"

    The opportunity shed by, and Lin Jiang decisively made his move. He disyed his skills to the fullest and headed straight for the young man in fancy clothes.

    Young Master He never expected someone to attack him from behind. It wasn''t until Lin Jiang was just tens of meters away from him that he felt a gust of winding from behind. But his reaction was slow. By the time he turned around, he saw Lin Jiang''s palm pressed against his shoulder.

    "Bang!"

    "Plop!"

    Lin Jiang''s palm struck the young man in fancy clothes'' shoulder, almost shattering his shoulder bone. The young man spat out a mouthful of blood, and then Lin Jiang grabbed his neck with one hand.

    "Young master"

    "The young master was captured"

    "Oh no, the young master has been captured"

    Several servants noticed something strange and shouted loudly. The man who was wrestling with Small Shadiao in mid-air also had a big change in expression and immediately let go of Small Shadiao,nding on the ground.

    "Excuse me, who are you? Do you know who you''ve captured?"

    "I don''t care who you are. How dare youy hands on my pet. This means a lifelong grudge."

    Lin Jiang spoke in a deep voice. He had already disguised his appearance and wrapped himself in a cloak. It shouldn''t be easy to recognize his identity.

    "Your pet, taoist friend, it seems there was a misunderstanding. We thought it was a monster from Yunzhong Mountain Range, so we acted to capture it. Since it''s a misunderstanding, why don''t we resolve it?"

    The middle-aged man spoke, trying to maintain a gentle tone. He wanted to rescue the young master first before discussing further.

    "Oh, you say, how do we unlock it?"

    "We released your pet, and we willpensate you with some spirit stones. You can decide on the amount. And then, you release our young master. How about that?"

    "You won''t kill me afterwards?"

    "No, we are a reputable family. Your Taoist friend may not know this, but the person you captured is called He Yunwei. The ancestor of our family is the sixth elder of the Cloud Sword Sect. His grandfather is the deputy city lord of Yunzhong City, and his father is the deputy hall master of the Guardian Hall in Yunzhong City. The Hefamily has a great reputation in this area. If you don''t believe it, you can let our young master give you a guarantee that we will absolutely not pursue anythingter on."

    The middle-aged man said gently. Make the guarantee first, and then use your identity to pressure him. This foolish boy is probably going to take the bait.

    Lin Jiang''s face showed a somewhat fearful expression. This fine young master''s identity is really intimidating. He knows about the He family. The ancestor of the He family is an elder of the Cloud Sword Sect, at least a Nascent Soul Ancestor. The He family is also a prominent figure in Yunzhong City.

    "So, you''re the young master of the He family. Then, I believe you. Take down the first, and then we can discusspensation. I don''t want much, just give me a thousand spirit stones, and I will release the person."

    "No problem, I''ll release them right away."

    The middle-aged man said, then he personally subdued Big Shadiao and then untied the, releasing Big Shadiao as well.

    Lin Jiang blew a whistle and Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao flew onto his head, then slowlynded on his shoulder, almost covering his head. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were really big.

    "Taoist friend, we have done as you said. This is one thousand spirit stones. Can you release my young master?"

    "Cannot."

    "You... Why are you going back on your word, taoist friend?"

    The middle-aged man suppressed his anger and had already made up his mind. After saving the young master, he would definitely make this person suffer, and let him die happily as a result of his ipetence.

    "I''m not a fool. How about we y a game?"

    "What game do you want to y?"

    "Your men can fight against my beast pet. If I lose, you can release the person. If you lose, I will also release the person, but you have to retreat fifty miles."

    "Kid, you''re ying with fire."

    "Do you want to y?"

    "No, let go of my young master, or else I will tear you into pieces."

    The middle-aged man ripped off his disguise. He stopped pretending and wanted to kill you.

    "Unfortunately, you have no choice. Mr. He is the legitimate son of the He family, right? If I kill him, you will also die, right? Otherwise, I will trade my life for all of yours."

    "You..."

    "I told you, you have no choice. Step aside, and you are not allowed to intervene."

    Lin Jiang said coldly, then hemanded Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to attack those He family servants.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were filled with anger. Upon hearing Lin Jiang''s order, their eyes turned icy. They pped their wings vigorously and flew into the sky.

    "Don''t let them get close to you, or else I''ll break one of their legs first."

    Lin Jiang saw that the servants were already afraid and desperately leaned towards the Building Foundation Period, immediately saying.

    "You guys, don''te closer. Young master is in trouble. Not only will we all die, but our families won''t survive either."

    The middle-aged man took a deep breath and said to the others, "He Yunwei is useless in the He family. Hecks talent, character, and schemes altogether."

    But he has a very powerful skill, which is that he can please the He family''s patriarch. He is the favorite offspring of the He family''s patriarch and is said to look very much like the patriarch''s deceased son.

    With this skill, He Yunwei is highly favored in the He family. His father and grandfather have to rely on him to please the He family''s patriarch. If he dies, the He family will surely be furious, and all of these people, together with their families, will die.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao have already started hunting. Their methods of attack are simple but very effective. They fly high in the sky and then glide down, using their speed and ws to break through even the strongest defenses. And they are incredibly fast, even cultivators can''t react in time.

    "*sound effect of a "pu"*"

    In less than a minute, casualties began. One person in the Qi Refining stage had their head torn apart, while another person was grabbed by the shoulder by an Aurora falcon and thrown down from high in the sky.

    Before he could hit the ground, another Aurora falcon flew in from the side and shed through him. His whole body was split in half, a truly tragic end.

    "Run quickly!"

    The remaining people werepletely devastated. He Yunwei was just a spoiled person, and all of his followers were tterers. They were not strong characters. If they were to encounter a truly tough character, Aurora Falcon might not be able topete.

    They tried to escape, but Aurora Falcon was unwilling to let them go. Aurora Falcon was the fastest among the flying monsters. It quickly caught up to them and killed them all. It even brought back two storage bags.

    "Taoist friend, you won. I''m out of breath. Let them go."

    The middle-aged man''s breath became extremely cold, and his powerful aura enveloped Lin Jiang.

    "Here, take it."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, exerted force with his hand, directly snapped He Yunwei''s neck, and then threw him to the middle-aged man.

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34

    From the moment Lin Jiang took action, he never intended to let He Yunwei live. He knew too well about the thoughts of these spoiled people. After suffering such a big loss, how could he willingly end it like this? If Lin Jiang let him go, endless pursuit would await him.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    How powerful is their family''s influence, how can he withstand it, so he decided to do it, to do it decisively, and kill them all.

    "Young master"

    The middle-aged man screamed in despair. He was going crazy. He Yunwei was dead, and he couldn''t live either. The He family wouldn''t spare him, including his family.

    Lin Jiang didn''t run away, but calmly looked at the middle-aged man, watching him calm down from shock and panic, his eyes turning bloodshot.

    "You must die, and your family, your n, they must all die. Only when you die can my family live."

    The middle-aged man said coldly, he no longer expected to survive now, but he wanted to kill Lin Jiang,mit a crime and make amends. Perhaps the He family would spare his family for this.

    "Alright,e on, let''s fight.""Kill."

    The middle-aged man no longer wondered why Lin Jiang, at Qi Refining Seventh Layer, could challenge him, a Building Foundation cultivator. He summoned a flying sword and attacked Lin Jiang.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang let out a low growl and summoned his flying sword, shing it against the opponent''s sword.

    "Bang!"

    As a result, the opponent''s sword was knocked away, while Lin Jiang''s sword shattered into pieces.

    Although Lin Jiang''s power was strengthened by the Boom Technique and was no weaker than the opponent, their weapons were of different levels. One was a magical tool and the other was a spiritual tool,pletely iparable.

    "Die."

    "Spiritual talismans!"

    The middle-aged man''s flying sword came again, and Lin Jiang took out a stack of spiritual talismans, fully activating them. These were first-grade premium attack-type spiritual talismans, equivalent to the attack power of ate stage Qi Refining practitioner.

    However, in front of the middle-aged man, they had no effect. They only slowed him down momentarily, giving Lin Jiang a chance to evade. He took out his flying sword once again to face the enemy.

    "Chirp~~"

    A loud and crisp call sounded, and two Aurora falcons came to assist in the battle. They charged towards the middle-aged man, one on the left and one on the right.

    "Go away!"

    The middle-aged man shouted loudly, moving even faster than the Aurora falcons. He conjured two bright lights and the Aurora falcon immediately let out a cry, falling from the sky.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang shouted once again, rushing towards the man, his flying sword soaring through the air.

    "Boom"

    The middle-aged man met Lin Jiang''s sword with his own sword, causing Lin Jiang''s flying sword to shatter once again.

    "Let''s see how many more swords you have"

    The middle-aged man grinned and attacked again, even though Lin Jiang had used secret techniques to enhance his skills, there was still a gap between their strengths.

    "Special magical charms!"

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly, taking out a stack of magical charms. He always carried fifty of them for protection, even during the busy celebration in Yunzhong City, where the charms were sold out.

    Ten magical charms were activated at the same time, each with different attack methods, making it seem dazzling. The middle-aged man sneered and controlled his flying sword to deflect all the attacks from the magical charms.

    "Magical charms!"

    Lin Jiang took out another stack of magical charms, which contained ten charms. This was already his thirtieth stack.

    "You can''t stop me with an endless supply of magical charms."

    The middle-aged man coldly snorted, finding it quite daunting to face a stack of ten magical charms at once. To be safe, he decided to use spells to counteract them instead of directly resisting.

    "Magical charms!"

    Lin Jiang, regardless of everything, yed another ten cards and once again, he waspletely defeated.

    "Spiritual talismans."

    The fifth activation of the spiritual talisman triggered not only the spiritual talisman itself but also Qianque Crossbow, which he obtained from Mo Lin.

    Qianque Crossbow is a first-grade premium weapon, suitable for closebat. Its arrows are specially modified to have a powerful armor-piercing effect, making it particrly effective against protective qi shields and the like.

    "Bang!"

    "Is this Qianque Crossbow your trump card?"

    The arrow was blocked by a piece of magic shield held by the middle-aged man. The arrowhead deeply pierced into the shield, while the arrow tail continued to shake violently but couldn''t go any further.

    "No, this is just a disguise. Break it!"

    Lin Jiang shouted. The spiritual talisman and Qianque Crossbow were only distractions. His real killer move was the silver needle weapon.

    And this set of silver needles is different from the previous one in Anhua City. The previous set was damaged when killing Mo Lin, so Lin Jiang intentionally reced it with a better quality set.

    The silver needles, as thin as cow hair, were incredibly sharp. They could prate armor even better than the arrows of the Qianque Crossbow. They directly pierced through the middle-aged man''s protective energy shield, with three of the silver needles stabbing into his eyes and forehead.

    "Ah..."

    His eyes were instantly blinded by the piercing, but the needle aimed at his forehead failed to achieve its goal and was stopped by his skull.

    "I will kill you!"

    The intense pain from his eyes drove the middle-aged man crazy. He wildly manipted his flying sword, attempting to strike down Lin Jiang.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly. He knew this was his best hope. For cultivators, eyesight is not extremely important because they possess spiritual awareness. Spiritual awareness can still scan their surroundings and serve as a substitute for vision.

    The middle-aged man was very scared and confused because his eyes were in so much pain and he couldn''t see anymore. He also panicked because he couldn''t see the changes in light, and this was instinctive.

    Just wait a little while, and he calmed down. That meant Lin Jiang''s time to die wasing.

    He used the Explosive Element Technique twice, and Lin Jiang forcefully shattered the opponent''s protective energy barrier, severely injuring him. Then, he took out the Qianque Crossbow and shot an arrow through his throat.

    Even though he was at the Building Foundation Period stage, he died like this, killed by a cultivator at the Qi Refining Period stage.

    Lin Jiang quickly approached and took the storage bag from the Building Foundation Period cultivator, not leaving behind his flying sword or magic shield. He put the injured Aurora falcon into the Spirit Beast Bag and rushed towards Yunzhong City at the fastest speed.

    Just fifteen minutester, a powerful figurended at the ce where they had just fought. That figure looked at the dead bodies on the ground, his face turning pale.

    "Who, who dares to kill people from my He family?"

    An angry roar spread across the area within a few hundred miles, shocking every passing cultivator.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang didn''t go home. Instead, he found a random inn to stay in. As soon as he entered, he took out the captured storage bag and started erasing its markings.

    Lin Jiang knew that the most valuable thing should be He Yunwei''s storage bag, but he didn''t dare to touch it. He was afraid that the storage bag might have tracking methods. Cultivators had many ways in this aspect, like Soul Cards. Lin Jiang didn''t know about other mysterious methods, so he resisted his greed and forcefully left the storage bag behind.

    The others probably didn''t have much of a problem, but Lin Jiang remained very cautious. He didn''t go home directly. Instead, he chose to stay at this inn.

    It took Lin Jiang half an hour to erase the markings on the Building Foundation Period storage bag, while the other two Qi Refining Period storage bags only took three minutes. Lin Jiang''s divine sense was stronger than ordinary people''s, nourished by the Soul Refining Technique and Soul Nourishing Pill.

    Among the three storage bags, there were many things, covering the floor. Lin Jiang didn''t have time to count them all. He took about ten thousand spirit stones and put them into his storage bag. Then he collected all the spiritual medicines, ores, and pills, and put them into his bag as well.

    Lin Jiang didn''t touch the jade slips and such. He put them back into the storage bag. Then he quietly hid the bag under the bed in his inn room. Lin Jiang took off his clothes and other belongings, filled them under the bed, and changed his disguised appearance before quietly leaving the room.

    He booked the inn for three days and told the innkeeper not to disturb him anymore. With all these preparations, he should be able to avoid being tracked. If he still couldn''t avoid it, then it could only mean that his fate was sealed.

    As a habit, he wandered around crowded ces in the market to make sure no one was following him. After ensuring his safety, Lin Jiang finally returned home and went straight to bed. Today''s battle had exhausted him. He needed a good rest.

    As for whether enemies woulde while he was asleep, he didn''t care anymore. Let whatever happens, happen.

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35

    Yunzhong City Grand Market

    When she saw Lin Jiang approaching, the beautiful young woman showed a concerned expression and greeted him, saying, "My Taoist friend Jiang, you haven''te for a few days."

    "Yes, I haven''t rested in years. I went outside the city a few days ago and felt a bit tired, so I took the opportunity to rest for a few days."

    Lin Jiang said that fighting with people was really exhausting, so when he returned home that day, he immediately went to sleep and slept for a full day and night. After that, he rested for another two days before going out again.

    "When you went outside the city a few days ago, did you know that something major happened?"

    "What happened?"

    "The young master He Yunwei of the He family was killed, along with his bodyguards and servants."

    "Is it the He family in the city?"

    "Yes, it''s the He family, causing quite amotion.""Tell me more, I still don''t know."

    "I don''t know the specifics, but Young Master He was killed. The He family is offering a reward of a hundred thousand spirit stones to track down the culprit."

    "Wow, a hundred thousand spirit stones is a lot. I couldn''t even earn that in twenty years of selling at my stall."

    "Yes, the whole Yunzhong City is in upheaval, everyone wants to catch this culprit."

    "Do you know who did it?"

    "Probably someone from out of town. The He family''s information mentioned they were at the Building Foundation Period and had two flying demonic beasts, probably something like eagles or falcons."

    "Then we don''t stand a chance, we''re only at the Qi Refining Period."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The He family''s spection was within his expectations. After all, He Yunwei had guards at the Building Foundation Period. The He family could never have imagined that they would be killed by someone at the Qi Refining Period.

    It is unlikely that the He family will find any evidence on him. Even if they do, no one would believe that someone in the Qi Refining Period can kill someone in the Building Foundation Period.

    This is how normal people think. Who would have thought that Lin Jiang could cheat? In order to kill them, Lin Jiang has sacrificed hundreds of years of lifespan, plus several previous times. Using the Explosive Element Technique has consumed a whopping one thousand years of lifespan. If it weren''t for his system, even the lifespan of a Nascent Soul Ancestor would have been depleted.

    "Yes, if I were in the Building Foundation Period, I would give it a try."

    The beautiful young woman said that she also coveted the one hundred thousand spirit stones. If she had one hundred thousand spirit stones, she wouldn''t have to work so hard. Perhaps all her problems would be solved easily.

    Lin Jiang didn''t say anything else. Instead, he took out spiritual talismans to sell. After the grand celebration in Yunzhong City, consumption dwindled, affecting everyone''s businesses. After selling for four hours, Lin Jiang went back home.

    "It''s time to leave. I have to move."

    After returning home, Lin Jiang made the final decision to move away from there.

    So many things have happened during this period of time. Mo Lin''s home invasion, Jiang Feng''s ambush, conflicts and silencing involving the He family''s young master. All of these incidents indicate that his identity is no longer safe. Although Lin Jiang still has the Explosive Element Technique as a trump card, he doesn''t want to use it casually.

    After all, his lifespan is not unlimited. Besides, even with the Explosive Element Technique, he cannot be invincible. At most, he can only contend with cultivators in the early stages of the Building Foundation Period. If he encounters cultivators in the mid tote stages of the Building Foundation Period, it could be dangerous.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    One month, Lin Jiang quietly left without telling anyone. He returned the house but kept the stalls at the market. However, the rental period was not much longer, so he didn''t worry about it.

    He quietly went out of the city and got a new identification card. He changed his name to Lin Yu and rented a cheaper house in a different direction of Yunzhong City. It only cost 3,500 spirit stones per year.

    After settling down, Lin Jiang continued to set up his stall at the big market. Yunzhong City had three markets: South City Market, East City Market, and West City Market. He used to be at South City Market, the biggest market in Yunzhong City. Now, he came to East City Market, which was slightly smaller but still had thousands of stalls.

    Lin Jiang still sold spiritual talismans. He didn''t know any other crafts for now, so he could only continue to sell spiritual talismans. And Lin Jiang didn''t think he would be discovered. There were tens of thousands of Talisman Makers in Yunzhong City, and some of them were at a simr level to him. The chance of finding him was very small.

    Afterward, Lin Jiang kept a low profile. He practiced cultivation, drew symbols, set up his stall, and practiced a technique called One Sword Flying Immortal. asionally, he would rx and feed his pets, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. He also had short romantic encounters with little fairies.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    As time went by, Lin Jiang reached the age of 120. He finally broke through the eighthyer of Qi Refining, which was not easy. From start to finish, he had been cultivating for a hundred and eight years.

    He remembered that Lin Die and Lin Ying had built their foundations in their thirties. It took them about twenty years to reach that stage. Compared to them, he was five to six times slower. It was embarrassing to say it out loud. He truly felt ashamed of the Lin family.

    Lin Jiang wasn''t worried about his lifespan. He still had more than 30,000 years left. The one thousand years he had previously consumed was just a drop in the bucket. As long as he was alive, he could gain more than three hundred years of lifespan every year. It was more than enough.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you''vee"

    In the big marketce, Wen Xing saw Lin Jiang and quickly walked over with a look of desperation on his face.

    "Brother Lin, help me out, I messed up big time"

    Wen Xing whispered to Lin Jiang with a pleading tone, but Lin Jiang brushed his hand away and nced at Wen Xing''s stall, immediately understanding what had happened.

    "Brother Wen, I''m sorry, I can''t help"

    Lin Jiang said calmly. At this moment, two female cultivators at Wen Xing''s stall looked up at Lin Jiang, and they continued to stare at each other, with tension thick in the air.

    "Brother Lin, help me, I really need your help this time. I''ll treat you to drinks, and I''ll help you with pill refining, alright?"

    "I think eating watermelon is better."

    "Eat melon. You like eating melon, I''ll buy you a whole cart. Please save me."

    "Eating melon means watching a good show. Brother Wen, let''s go quickly, I''m waiting to eat melon."

    Lin Jiang pushed him back to his stall and actually took out a handful of melon seeds to eat while watching the show.

    Wen Xing is his neighbor at the stall now. This guy has a good appearance, handsome, and with excellent cultivation talent and superb alchemy skills. If he was put in the matchmaking market, he would definitely be a high-quality man.

    But this guy is irresponsible, definitely a scumbag. He enjoys toying with the emotions of female cultivators, from mature married women to naive young girls. There are very few who can escape his clutches. No one knows how many married women he has harmed. Basically, once he gets them, he will find an excuse to break up.

    In just the year that Lin Jiang has known him, he has gone through no less than twenty partners, and there have even been some who sacrificed themselves for him. Lin Jiang doesn''t know how he survives, being so despicable. Why hasn''t anyone killed him?

    asionally, he also has a "double-flirting" moment, like when he is caught cheating on two girlfriends, such as now.

    Wen Xing saw that Lin Jiang wouldn''t save him, so he had to reluctantly go back to his stall, force a smile at the two women, and say, "Yan''er, Ping''er, please don''t be like this. It would make me very sad."

    "Brother Wen, you can answer me now. Between me and her, who would you choose?"

    "Yes, you can only choose one of us."

    Wen Xing''s smile froze when he heard the girls'' response. Can he not choose either of them? But that''s not possible. This time it''s different, both women areplicated and if they answer poorly, will he be killed by a sword?

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36

    Yunzhong CityгмEast City Market

    It''s not just Lin Jiang who is watching the show, many vendors, although not crowding around, are all focused on Wen Xing. Their cultivation techniques are at their peak, even the Qi Refining Period cultivators can hear the sound of a fly from tens of meters away. They can hear every little movement from Wen Xing.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, can I have some melon seeds?"

    "Alright, tell me, what''s going on this time? I arrivedte today and missed the earlier scenes."

    "This time, Mr. Wen is in trouble. The girl named Yan''er is actually named Nn Yan. The Grand Elder of the outer sect of the Zhonghang Sect is surnamed Nn. It''s said that Nn Yan is also a genius from the Nn family and is only twenty-three years old but already at the ninth level of Qi Refining. The other girl is called Yu Ping, the direct granddaughter of a senior steward from the Cloud Sword Sect. It''s said that this steward has already reached the peak of golden core and there''s a high chance they''ll be an elder of the Cloud Sword Sect within a few decades."

    "First, Mr. Wen provoked Nn Yan. It''s said that she is deeply in love with him. You know his nature, once a woman falls deeply in love with him, he''ll let her go. And then he provoked Yu Ping. Well, it happened, things went wrong."

    A familiar vendor said to Lin Jiang, "The vendors at East City Market have a deep hatred for Wen Xing. They hate that he ys with women''s emotions. Of course, not with a sense of justice, but because they can''t y with them. The female cultivators, whom they consider goddesses, are like toys in Wen Xing''s hands, which makes them incredibly jealous."

    As for the women, they both love and hate him. They love Wen Xing''s methods of pursuing women, which are truly romantic. He is generous with his money and can fulfill all the fantasies women have about love. But they hate that this guy is a scoundrel who starts and ends rtionships easily. Yet, even so, many women are drawn to Wen Xing like moths to a me, making countless male cultivators envious.

    "Do the Zhonghang Sect Nn family and the Cloud Sword Sect Yu family have a feud?""They don''t have a feud, but these two women do. I heard that they have known each other since they were little. On the surface, they appear as close as sisters, but secretly they have always beenpeting andparing, who knows if it''s true or not."

    "So they are like stic sisters."

    Lin Jiang sighed in his heart, "What an interesting show! The days at East City Market are much more entertaining than the previous grand markets. Where else can you find such fun things happening?"

    On the other side, Wen Xing was cornered, with both women asking him to make a decision. Lin Jiang felt that he wanted both of them, but he didn''t have the courage. If he dared to do so, the families behind the women would not spare him.

    "Yan''er, Ping''er, you are both good sisters. I can''t bear to hurt either of you. So, my choice is not to choose anyone. I don''t want you to hurt each other because of me. Let me live a lonely life in the future."

    Wen Xing was pushed to the limit, but he cleverly came up with a solution. He rejected both women, and his reasons were justified.

    "This jerk takes advantage and pretends to be innocent. These two women are foolish to believe such words."

    People around whispered and cursed, clearly Wen Xing was telling lies, but unfortunately they believed him. How could they be so naive to fall into Wen Xing''s trap?

    "Do you really want to teach Wen Xing a lesson?"

    As soon as Lin Jiang heard this, he immediately came up with a n. Lin Jiang never thought of himself as a saint, but he had his own principles. Wen Xing''s actions disgusted Lin Jiang.

    In this world, there is now of one man and one woman. People who have the ability can have multiple wives and mistresses. Lin Jiang doesn''t find anything wrong with it. It''s about adapting to local customs. But he despises Wen Xing''s casual attitude towards love. It''s not just casual, it''s intentional. It seems like revenge. Every time he makes those women fall madly in love with him and then abandons them, he gets a strange sense of satisfaction. So Lin Jiang has decided to teach him a lesson.

    "Does Taoist Friend Lin have a way?"

    "With so many intimate female friends around, what do you think would happen if a few more came at this moment?"

    Lin Jiang said calmly, and the people around immediately brightened their eyes. It is quite a malicious method, but they seem to enjoy it. Today''s drama will be even more exciting.

    Wen Xing is indiscriminate in his rtionships, among the women he abandoned, there are high-ssdies, as well as precious beauties from less fortunate backgrounds. There are also many ordinary female cultivators. Even in this bustling market, there are several former close friends.

    This is why he has angered everyone now.

    Wen Xing managed to survive until today, just like Lin Jiang. He hardly ever leaves Yunzhong City. It was the rules of Yunzhong City that saved him. Otherwise, he would have been knocked out a long time ago.

    Someone immediately went to inform Wen Xing''s beloved, but at this moment, Wen Xing had no idea of the malicious intentions of the people around him.

    Before Wen Xing could even solve the problem in front of him with a sentence, just over ten minutester, he was stunned. Because his beloved had arrived, and there were three of them in total.

    "Herees the exciting part!"

    "Wow, it''s really exciting!"

    "They''re fighting, they''re fighting!"

    "They''re really fighting now!"

    The exciting part has arrived. Everyone is eagerly watching the show. With three women already causing chaos, let alone now that there are five women, they didn''t take long to start fighting. It was extremely intense.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend Lin, if you don''t save me, it''s fine. But you also harmed me. When did I ever offend you?"

    Two dayster, Wen Xing blocked Lin Jiang''s door. The ce where they both lived was not far from each other.

    Wen Xing is very angry now. The day before yesterday, something terrible happened to him. Five women fought over him, and it even rmed the guards of Yunzhong City. They arrested all of them. If Wen Xing hadn''t been trying to stop the fight without getting involved, he would probably have been expelled.

    "Dear friend, don''t you think you have angered everyone?"

    "Do you mean those unsessful men?"

    "I am also one of the unsessful men."

    "Friend Lin, I thought you were different."

    "Don''t use your tricks for dealing with women on me. I am a man and I won''t fall for it."

    "I''m serious. You see me frolicking in the flowers and changing women like changing clothes, but you don''t know the pain I''ve been through. I just want you to see that those women are not worth men sacrificing so much for them."

    "You shameless bastard!"

    Lin Jiang stared at Wen Xing and realized that he was actually serious, very serious when saying this sentence.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I have also seen you at the Wanhua Tower. We are all men, so why must it be like this?"

    "I''m different from you."

    "What is different?"

    "I have a younger sister, and if anything happens to her because of you, I will kill you. Really, I''m not lying to you."

    Lin Jiang said, and just the thought of lively and cute Lin Ying possibly encountering such a scoundrel filled him with a surge of murderous intent. He was afraid that Lin Jiang would really go to any lengths to kill someone like Wen Xing.

    "Did Taoist Friend Lin know that I also have a sister who was treated this way? I''m only returning the favor."

    "You go on, let''s see what excuse you have."

    "This is not an excuse, I''m telling the truth. I have a sister, her name is..."

    "Stop, I''m not interested in hearing your story, but I''ll give you a piece of advice."

    "Go ahead."

    "A strong person should draw the sword against a stronger opponent, rather than swing it at a weaker one. If your sisters have been bullied by such a scumbag, you should seek revenge for them."

    "But I have already taken revenge."

    Wen Xing said, not lying. His sisters really encountered a scumbag and had a terrible ending. He sought revenge by seducing all the women in that scumbag''s family. When they were madly in love with him, he abandoned them, leaving them ruined and disgraced.

    "You win."

    Lin Jiang waspletely speechless. Who the hell was this person?

    "Friend Lin, I really want to be friends with you, I know you''re different from other people."

    "What makes me different?"

    Lin Jiang was suddenly shocked. Could this person have some special power? Did he see through his true intentions?

    "Your eyes, they have a knowing and wise look, mature and full of experiences. Facial expressions can deceive, words can deceive, but it''s hard to deceive through the eyes."

    "Oh no, you''ve misunderstood. I''m just naturally aloof."

    "If you truly were aloof, you wouldn''t have said those things to me just now. I believe what you said, if I harm your sister, you would kill me."

    "So, what do you have in mind then?"

    "Help me leave the city, please. It''s getting harder for me to survive in Yunzhong City, I want to go somewhere else."

    Wen Xing said, realizing he had too many debts with women in Yunzhong City. The count of women he had abandoned was already in the three digits. He had to run away.

    "After leaving Yunzhong City, will you die? Have you thought about it?"

    "Don''t worry, I have ways to save my life. I, Wen Xing, won''t die so easily."

    "But I choose to refuse."

    "Why? I will repay you, really."

    "I don''t need your repayment."

    "Why?"

    "Like I said, I''m just an ordinary person, no different from those unsessful men in your eyes."

    Lin Jiang said calmly, jealousy drives people mad, even though his secrets don''t allow him to live a carefree life like Wen Xing, untouched by troubles.

    But which man doesn''t have such desires? Having multiple wives and mistresses, embracing left and right, it''s just human nature.

    He had a bottom line and a nature, they were not contradictory or conflicting. Wen Xing''s aplishments had made Lin Jiang very jealous, so not taking action to kill Wen Xing had be his bottom line. It was impossible for him to help Wen Xing escape.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37

    After the previous incident, Wen Xing couldn''t stay in East City Market anymore, it was too embarrassing. But his alchemy skills were still impressive and well-known among the Qi Refining Period.

    So he would still be able to survive by selling pills to a merchant, though maybe at a lower price and with some loss. This was his deserved punishment.

    With no news from Wen Xing for two consecutive months, they finally heard about him again through a bounty from Zhonghang Sect Nn family.

    "We were all deceived by Wen Xing, he''s not as honest as he seems. He''s in cahoots with Nn family''s Nn Yan for the purpose of obtaining Nn family''s Five Elements Golden Fruit."

    "Do you know about the Five Elements Golden Fruit? It''s a treasure that can help people advance to the Nascent Soul stage."

    "I know about the Five Elements Golden Fruit. A few years ago, during the Centennial Celebration in our Yunzhong City, there was one that appeared. It is said that someone offered one million spirit stones but refused to sell. It appeared in an auction for Nascent Soul level, and even the details of the transaction were kept secret."

    "Can the Five Elements Golden Fruit be included in the Nascent Soul auction?"

    "Of course! Which ancestor with a Nascent Soul hasn''t had a few descendants? But not all of them have good potential. The Five Elements Golden Fruit can help cultivators in the Building Foundation Period have a 50% higher chance of forming a golden core. It''s crazy, right?"

    "Is the Nn family going crazy?""The Nn family is definitely going crazy. They''re not only using the power of the Zhonghang Sect to search for Wen Xing, but they''re also offering a reward of two hundred thousand spirit stones."

    The vendors at the big market were discussing the matter, and Lin Jiang soon learned the whole story. The Zhonghang Sect and the Nn family have a treasure called the Five Elements Golden Fruit tree. It takes two hundred years for the tree to bear a single fruit, which is the most important treasure of the Nn family. With this treasure, the Nn family can continuously produce cultivators with golden cores and maintain the prosperity of their n.

    And Wen Xing, he kidnapped Nn Yan and encouraged her to steal the Five Elements Golden Fruit. Whether he had nned it a long time ago or if it was a spur of the moment decision, we don''t know.

    In any case, the Nn family was furious. They used their rtionship with the Zhonghang Sect tounch aprehensive pursuit of Wen Xing, and they even issued a wanted notice in Yunzhong City. They offered a reward of two hundred thousand spirit stones for bounty hunters to hunt down Wen Xing.

    This matter has be big news in Yunzhong City. Everyone is discussing it, and Wen Xing has be their target. Whether or not they will hand him over to the Nn family remains uncertain. The Five Elements Golden Fruit is worth far more than two hundred thousand spirit stones, even more than a million.

    "The guards are here."

    "Why are there so many people?"

    While everyone was discussing, suddenly someone saw the arrival of the guards from Yunzhong City. They stood on both sides and blocked everyone in the middle.

    "Now, I invite the Taoist friend whose name I am about to read toe forward. We have some things to discuss with you."

    "Good sir, may I inquire about the reason for such a grand presence?"

    "This is concerning the matter of the independent cultivator Wen Xing. You don''t need to worry, we just want to gather some information. We won''t take you to prison. Please step forward, Lin Yu, when you hear your name."

    The captain of the guard team held a list and said, "The first name on the list is Lin Jiang." Lin Jiang walked forward. Even the lowest-ranked member of the guard team in Yunzhong City was at the Qi Refining Late Stage, while Lin Jiang, as an independent cultivator at the Qi Refining Period, couldn''t escape even if he wanted to.

    More than ten people were called out. They were all independent cultivators and vendors who had some connection with Wen Xing. Lin Jiang cooperated fully and followed one person to the side.

    The person asked about Lin Jiang''s rtionship with Wen Xing, and Lin Jiang honestly told them that they weren''t very familiar. They had just treated each other with a bit more kindness. Lin Jiang had helped Wen Xing with some small favors, so they had a good rapport. It was a matter of mutual respect.

    "Do you happen to know when Wen Xing left Yunzhong City and how he left?"

    "I don''t know. For the past few months, I have been in the city, selling my goods during the day and practicing and drawing talismans at night. I rarely leave."

    Lin Jiang said again, but this time he didn''t say the previous conversation.

    Wen Xing seemed to trust him a lot. Last time, he even asked Lin Jiang to help him escape, but Lin Jiang firmly refused. Now Lin Jiang doesn''t know how he managed to escape.

    Wen Xing offended many people. In Yunzhong City, no one dares to do anything to him. If he leaves the city, he will surely die. So he must have used special means to leave, but Lin Jiang really doesn''t know.

    The guards asked a few more questions, but since Lin Jiang couldn''t provide any useful information, they let him go. Most of the other vendors were treated the same way. The guards returned empty-handed.

    After the guards left, people started discussing among themselves about what was wrong with this situation. ording to reason, the crimes Wen Xingmitted were not worth the guards putting so much effort. After all, one Nn family is nothing to the Zhonghang Sect. But the people there are just the lower ss of the Zhonghang Sect, and they don''t know much about secrets. They were just making random guesses.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Yunzhong City guards searched for Wen Xing for over a month, but still there was no news. It seemed as if he never existed in this world. Slowly, people started forgetting about him.

    After all, Yunzhong City with a poption of millions nevercks fresh happenings. People have already shifted their attention to other things, and Lin Jiang has long stopped caring about this matter.

    Now Lin Jiang''s main focus is on cultivation and saving money. He has set a small goal for himself, which is to reach the foundation building stage before he turns two hundred.

    Cultivation starts from easy to difficult. Lin Jiang spent more than ten years to reach the eighth level of Qi Refining. He estimated that it would take him more than twenty years to reach the ninth level of Qi Refining. Only then can he enter seclusion to build his foundation.

    Lin Jiang is not worried about the Building Foundation Pills. After selling the Green Rock Pills, he still has over fifty thousand spirit stones. After killing Mo Lin and Jiang Feng, as well as a group of people including He Yunwei, the spoils they obtained were very valuable. They have tens of thousands of spirit stones and arge amount of resources that they haven''t sold yet. Their total assets are estimated to be no less than a hundred thousand.

    The price of Building Foundation Pills in Yunzhong City ranges from twenty to thirty thousand. However, Lin Jiang knows his own aptitude. He ns to buy two or three Building Foundation Pills for preparation to ensure his breakthrough to the Building Foundation Period.

    In addition to the cost of a breakthrough and finding a cave with abundant spiritual energy, Lin Jiang is still short on money. But he has time. His ie and expenses are bnced, and he can save a little money each year. umting for several decades should be enough.

    After four hours of setting up a stall, Lin Jiang returned home. As soon as he entered the house, two Shadiao came running towards him, wagging their tails, trying to please him. Lin Jiang took out two pieces of dried meat from his storage bag and threw them to the Shadiao.

    After what happened with He Yunwei, Lin Jiang''s affection for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao increased even more. After all, they wererades who had fought together and shared life and death experiences. So, at home, Lin Jiang would let them out. Although he couldn''t let them spread their wings and fly, it was better than keeping them in the Spirit Beast Bag.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao finished eating the meat, weighing about a kilogram, in just a few bites, but they wanted more and came closer to Lin Jiang.

    "Alright, alright, I''ll give you more. The meat for today is finished. I''ll buy more tomorrow."

    Lin Jiang said, the cost of raising the two Shadiao has increased a lot. The dried meat he gives them has also upgraded. Now it is made from first-grade premium monster meat. One piece of spirit stone can only buy about fifteen kilograms, which is almost enough for one day''s food for a Shadiao. As a result, their annual cost of upbringing has reached seven to eight hundred spirit stones.

    No wonder the Lin family didn''t want to keep them as Building Foundation Period offerings, they were too expensive. Only Lin Jiang insisted on keeping them, even after all these years, he has developed an emotional attachment to them and can''t bear to get rid of them.

    After having fun with the two Shadiaos for a while, Lin Jiang entered the house and immediately felt energized. This is because Lin Jiang set up thetest Second Level Spirit Gathering Formation.

    The Second Level Spirit Gathering Formation is much stronger than the first level. It can absorb more spiritual energy and greatly enhance the ability to refine spirit stones. Lin Jiang nced at the formation, thirty spirit stones that were put in this morning have already turned gray. With just a light pinch, the spirit stones turned into powder.

    "Thirty spirit stones a day, nine hundred a month, over ten thousand a year. It''s too expensive for cultivation!"

    Lin Jiang sighed, once again feeling his poverty. He normaly draws three first level premium spiritual talismans a day, and if he sells them all, he can earn twenty-five or twenty-six spirit stones. In a year, he can earn about nine thousand spirit stones, which is enough to pay rent and daily cultivation expenses, with a few hundred spirit stones left over.

    But with the increased expenses of the Spirit Gathering Formation, Lin Jiang is starting to feel a bit stretched. So now he can only put ten spirit stones into the formation each day, which means he''ll still be in deficit by the end of the year and will need to make up for it from elsewhere.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Keeping spirit stones on me is just having spirit stones, but using them is where the real resource is. I need to concentrate my resources on things that showcase my strength."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, he is extremelycking in a sense of security, especially since he hasn''t found the real culprit behind Mo Lin. He is eager to improve his strength.

    To improve his strength, ites down to himself and external objects. Himself being his cultivation level, but Lin Jiang''s talent is limited. Even if he invests a lot of resources, he can''t immediately convert them into power. Lin Jiang leans more toward external objects.

    Lin Jiang equipped himself with flying swords and armor. The quality was excellent, and his spiritual talisman reserves were back to normal. Lin Jiang slowly shifted his gaze to the yful Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao outside.

    "I''ve been raising Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao for decades. They have already reached the peak of the first stage, equivalent to the perfect state of human''s Qi Refining Period. They are close to breaking through to the second stage, but I wonder how many resources it would take to cultivate them to the early second stage."

    Lin Jiang hesitated. The second-stage Aurora falcon had strong abilities and could definitely be one of Lin Jiang''s hidden cards. It was rare to find a second-stage beast pet during the Qi Refining Period, unless they were bestowed by the elders of the family. Against ordinary enemies, all Lin Jiang needed to do was release Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and victory would be assured.

    Even if they encountered someone in the Building Foundation Period, with the speed of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, escaping would be effortless. The previous second-stage Aurora falcon from the Lin family met its end at the hands of a few Building Foundationte-stage cultivators.

    "I should inquire about the cost. If it''s not too expensive, I will invest in Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao."

    Lin Jiang made a final decision. As long as the investment was within his means, he was willing to invest in Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to help them break through to the second stage as soon as possible.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38

    From Duobao Pavilion, Lin Jiang and several independent cultivators in the Qi Refiningter stage walked out. They agreed to gather at a nearby restaurant, where they enjoyed a table filled with delicious food and drinks.

    Although Lin Jiang had left his previous residence and no longer visited the South City Market, he still had connections with Duobao Pavilion.

    There is no way, Lin Jiang spent too much money here at Duobao Pavilion. Every year, he spends thousands of spirit stones. Over the past ten years, the total amount of his spending is no less than sixty to seventy thousand. Plus the amount he spent on auctioning the Green Rock Pill, Lin Jiang can be said to be the highest-ranked guest in Duobao Pavilion during the Qi Refining Period.

    This status has many benefits. The most basic one is getting discounts when buying things. Additionally, Duobao Pavilion provides many services, including improvingmunication skills and hosting high-profile auctions.

    These benefits make Lin Jiang reluctant to give up, because reaching this level again would require a lot of time, money, and effort.

    Therefore, Lin Jiang still deals with Duobao Pavilion as Jiang Lin, but he pays attention to keeping his identity a secret.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, I have known you for many years. I see that you have a good ie, so why haven''t I ever seen you go to the ck market?"

    "The area outside the city is too chaotic. I rarely leave the city, maybe only two or three times a year. Once I finish my business, Ie back."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He knew about the ck market, a ce that exists somewhere outside the city. It is said that you need a rmendation to find it.In the ck market, there are many good things that are not seen in regr markets. However, most of these good things are illegal, like some resources that are obtained through robbery, which can easily lead to misunderstandings.

    "The marketce outside the city is indeed unsafe. Many people in the Building Foundation Period die there every year. However, Taoist Friend Jiang can try the fake marketce inside the city instead."

    "Can there be fakes in the ck market?"

    Lin Jiang was shocked, what the heck, there are fakes in the ck market?

    "Haha, Taoist Friend Jiang is fully dedicated to his spiritual practice. You must be unaware of many things, right?"

    "Indeed, please enlighten me, Taoist friend."

    "The ck market originated from the needs of us cultivators. It''s the demand that gave birth to the ck market. While it''s true that there are many shady things in the ck market, not everything is necessarily like that.

    Moreover, even though the ck market outside the city has been raided more than ten times, it still exists. So even the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect can''t avoid this problem. Instead of letting others make all the money, why not make it themselves, right?"

    "That''s true, but why call it a fake ck market?"

    Because it''s different from the real one. The ck market outside the city is awless ce where anything goes. Besides being a ce for thieves to sell stolen goods, it''s also a meeting ce for assassin organizations and a ce to hire killers. In addition, there are many shady practices, such as gambling fights, fights between humans and monsters, where people bet money, and many more.

    The fake ck market within the city doesn''t allow these things to happen. After all, these activities are too disruptive to the city''s rules and pose a huge challenge.

    "What can the fake ck market inside the city sell?"

    "Actually, it''s not much different from the big market, except there are more stolen goods. For example, if I leave the city and someone tries to rob me, I can fight back and take their things. But it''s not easy to sell them openly, so I can go to the fake ck market. It''s a ce where secrets can be kept."

    "In that case, does the fake ck market have any business? It would be better to go to the real ck market."

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, you''re mistaken. The fake ck market is extremely popr because it''s safe. Fighting is not allowed within the city. If you''re being pursued by enemies, you have a chance to escape. But outside the city, the ck market doesn''t care as much, and there are many people killing others on the streets."

    "Nowadays, there are only shady businesses left in the real ck market outside the city. If Taoist Friend Jiang has this interest, it would be a good opportunity to broaden your horizons."

    "Oh, I see. I''ve learned something new, thank you."

    Lin Jiang politely gestured with his hand. He didn''t actually know all of this, but indeed, the factor of safety can attract many cultivators. The real ck market doesn''t guarantee that.

    "Actually, this fake ck market is secretly organized by the high-level people of Yunzhong City. It''s their money bag, so the security is quite reliable..."

    Then, someone leaked information that the fake ck market can also be called a ck market because it''s operated by the high-level people of Yunzhong City.

    The higher positions in Yunzhong City were held by members of Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect. It was considered their duty within the sect, even though these individuals upied high positions and controlled the treasury of Yunzhong City. However, their ie was not very high.

    Instead of resorting to corruption and bribery, which eventually led to punishment when discovered by the sect, it was better to find ways to make money from other sources. The ck market was one of their means to achieve this. The entrance fees and taxes in the ck market all went to them personally, without being recorded in the official ounts. In order to have a steady ie, the higher-ups put in a lot of effort to maintain the existence of the ck market. Hearing this, Lin Jiang was immediately intrigued.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Brother Jiang,e with me."

    In a corner of Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang followed a cultivator named Zhang into a hidden ck market.

    The ck market was actually a mix of residential houses, somewhat simr to a vige Lin Jiang had been to before. At the entrance, there was a cultivator guarding it at the Building Foundation Period. The entry fee was ten spirit stones and the person would also give a hat, which was a magical tool that could hide one''s appearance. The Qi Refining Period''s spiritual sense couldn''t prate it. However, it had to be returned when leaving.

    The two entered the ck market and Lin Jiang saw people setting up stalls on the street, as well as some shops. The shops didn''t have names, only special symbols. Only those familiar with them would know what these shops were for.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Many of the things on the stalls had obvious bloodstains, which made Lin Jiang shake his head. Couldn''t they at least wipe them off?

    "Yunzhong City has a million residents, and there are no less than fifty thousand visitors from outside each day. Along the roads outside Yunzhong City, dozens of bands of bandits linger all year round. Therefore, the number of cultivators who fall each day within a thousand miles of Yunzhong City will not be less than three figures. It''s normal for people to die. We cultivators have it tough."

    "I heard about this, Qi Refining Period cultivators can live up to a hundred years, but more than thirty percent of Qi Refining Period cultivators cannot live past sixty years old."

    Lin Jiang nodded, being a cultivator is very dangerous and chaotic. Sometimes, being born into a family or sect is lucky because the chances of living until old age are high, but for independent cultivators, it''s really unfortunate.

    "Yeah, cultivation is not easy. Well, forget about that. I''m going to buy something. Jiang, feel free to look around. Remember the rules I told you."

    "Got it, no asking about origins, no bargaining, and less talking."

    "Just remember, even though this is a fake ck market, it''s still a ck market. Be cautious."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang and him nodded at each other, then went their separate ways to do their own things.

    "What kind of demon beast''s Demon Core is this? How much does it cost?"

    Lin Jiang strolled around for a while and saw a stall selling Demon Cores. He approached and inquired.

    "The Demon Core of the Iron Arm Eagle, a third-grade medium-quality item, worth fifty thousand spirit stones."

    "I want to check it."

    "Okay, there''s a ce for appraisal in the ck market, and this is the appraisal certificate they provided."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out fifty thousand spirit stones. He could afford it without a problem. He decided to buy them for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    The transaction was straightforward. In less than a minute, Lin Jiang left. Afterwards, he entered a shop and got rid of the clutter he had on him. Some of these items were acquired after killing people, but he didn''t sell all of them. For example, the things he obtained from He Yunwei''s possession. Maybe this ck market still had a share from the He family, and he didn''t want to take risks.

    After browsing around for a while, Lin Jiang left. He already understood the situation in the ck market. Most of the items here had dubious origins and were cheaperpared to those outside, such as the Demon Core he bought, which would cost at least eighty thousand spirit stones elsewhere.

    Additionally, this Demon Core seemed to have been around for a while. It was probably someone''s cherished collection or even a family heirloom that got into someone else''s hands. Such things were not umon.

    A few dayster, Lin Jiang had someone divide the Demon Core into six parts. Only then did he dare to feed it to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Otherwise, a Demon Core at the mid-level of the golden core stage would be enough to make them explode. The difference between them and a third-grade medium-quality item was immense.

    In less than an hour, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao fell sound asleep. This is a normal behavior for advancing monsters. Lin Jiang expected them to sleep for about two to three years.

    Of course, it''s also possible that they will never wake up because the advancement of monsters can also fail, and failure means death. The cultivation world is cruel like that, whether you are a cultivator or a monster.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao falling into sleep actually saved Lin Jiang some expenses. He decided to invest more in his talisman-drawing skills to increase his ie. He doesn''t have many spirit stones left, and he needs them to feel safe.

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39

    East City Market

    Ever since Wen Xing disappeared at the big market, it seemed like half of the fun was gone. Most of the vendors were just like everyone else, working hard to practice and sell goods, barely making a living.

    Immortality is too far away for them.

    This made Lin Jiang feel like he didn''t belong among them, even though he is just an ordinary person now.

    "Just checking-in when I have nothing to do"

    System: Life Check-in System

    Host: Lin Jiang

    Lifespan: 125/37500

    Lin Jiang looked at the remaining lifespan bnce on the system, feeling a bit numb. The thousand years of lifespan he had previously consumed seemed insignificant to him now."I wonder if there''s any cultivation technique that can give lifespan to others. If so, I''ll be prosperous."

    Sometimes, Lin Jiang would think like this. There were countless cultivation techniques in the cultivation world, and if there was one that could give lifespan to others, he would be prosperous. He could be rich and be the wealthiest in the cultivation world by relying on this technique.

    However, Lin Jiang had never heard of such a technique, though he had heard of some magic techniques that could absorb other people''s lifespan. Unfortunately, he didn''t need that kind of technique.

    "Friend Lin, are you going back?"

    Seeing that there wasn''t much business, Lin Jiang decided to head home and greeted the vendors on both sides.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang replied with a simple nod and casually said hello before leaving. Lin Jiang knew that after he left, his stall would be taken over by two other people. They wouldn''t pay him rent like Zhang Ruifeng did, they were just taking advantage. Lin Jiang didn''t mind and ignored them.

    Lin Jiang usually doesn''t go straight home. Instead, he likes to take a stroll in the bustling market or other crowded ces. If someone is following him, it''s easy for him to shake them off. It''s a habit he has developed over many years.

    He had done this countless times before without noticing anyone following him. But today, Lin Jiang could feel someone''s gaze constantly on his back. This feeling was very obvious, and it made Lin Jiang feel heavy-hearted. He didn''t know if the mastermind from before had targeted him again or if he had unintentionally revealed his wealth and attracted someone''s attention.

    This made Lin Jiang even more afraid to go home. He kept wandering outside until it was dark, but he still felt the presence of someone following him.

    "I can''t keep not going home forever. Who could this be?"

    Lin Jiang kept analyzing in his mind. He didn''t know who was following him, but he couldn''t stay away from home. Although Yunzhong City didn''t have a curfew, cultivators also got tired and needed a ce to rest.

    The most important thing was that if he kept avoiding going home, it would surely rm the person behind him. So, Lin Jiang gritted his teeth and returned home. With the protection of the courtyard walls and formations, that feeling finally disappeared.

    "What''s going on? Is it rted to the mastermind behind Mo Lin and his gang?"

    Lin Jiang questioned once again. He actually hoped that this time the person following him was connected to Mo Lin. He wasn''t afraid of enemies showing up, but he was afraid of them not showing up.

    "Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao haven''t woken up yet."

    Lin Jiang nced at the Spirit Beast Bag and saw that Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao had been asleep for a year and still hadn''t woken up, but they were both alive and getting stronger.

    "As long as I stay inside the city and don''t go out, those people dare not attack me freely. Don''t go to the ck market in the future either, it''s too remote. Although there are killings inside the city, they just don''t dare to do it openly."

    Lin Jiang made a decision, as long as he stayed inside the city, no one would dare to openly kill him. The rules in Yunzhong City were very strict, and rules were the most precious thing in Yunzhong City.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Still here."

    Several dayster, in East City Market, Lin Jiang felt that surveilling gaze again, but there were too many people in the market and he couldn''t tell who it was.

    Lin Jiang pretended not to know and continued to sell his spiritual talismans. He had been blending in East City Market for a few years now, and he had gained some fame. Old customers would oftene to buy his talismans.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, won''t you consider joining my team? We have thirteen members, all at the mid-stage of Qi Refining. And we have been in Yunzhong City for decades, known for our reliability."

    Today, an old customer came to buy talismans again and also proposed that Lin Jiang join his team. His team consisted of thirteen elites in the Qi Refining Period, and they had a good reputation in the Qi Refining Period circle of Yunzhong City.

    "Taoist Friend Chen, forget it. I''m used to being a free spirit all on my own."

    Lin Jiang shook his head and refused. Taoist Friend Chen had invited him several times, even talking about his team''s matters multiple times, but Lin Jiang still declined.

    He was not worried about how these people thought of him. A group of Qi Refining Period cultivators meant nothing to him, especially since they had a good reputation. His concern was that their actions might bring danger.

    Taoist Friend Chen''s team was simr to other independent cultivators in Yunzhong City. They didn''t have a stable ie and did various things like being bodyguards, searching for treasures, or hunting beasts in the mountains.

    All of these things were extremely dangerous, even for elite Qi Refining Period cultivators like Taoist Friend Chen and his team. In fact, many people had died in the past few years, and Lin Jiang knew about two of them.

    Lin Jiang had plenty of opportunities to make money. His biggest advantage was having time. Even if he only made a few spirit stones a year, he could surpass the wealth of most Qi Refining Period cultivators by relying on time. That''s why Lin Jiang never took risks. As long as he could survive, that was enough.

    "That would be a shame. If you joined us, our team would be much stronger. Being an independent cultivator is not easy. We need to stick together in order to have a chance to build our foundation."

    Taoist Friend Chen said being an independent cultivator was difficult. They earned a little money but invested it all in cultivation and daily expenses. It was very difficult to save tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    So they decided to join together and gather everyone''s strength, so they can build foundations one by one. Unfortunately, Lin Jiang didn''t agree.

    "Sorry."

    "It''s okay, our fate hasn''t arrived yet."

    Taoist Friend Chen said, "I understand why Lin Jiang refused. There aren''t many people in thete stage of Qi Refining with the ability to be a first-grade premium Talisman Maker. Those who have this ability can easily make money, so there''s no need for them to be like us, living by the sword."

    Taoist Friend Chen left with the spiritual talisman, and Lin Jiang closed down his stall and left as well. Taoist Friend Chen was his big customer, almost every time he came, he would buy all of Lin Jiang''s inventory for the next few days.

    Ignoring the person monitoring from behind, Lin Jiang returned home alone. As usual, he nced at the Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao in his Spirit Beast Bag, and then went inside to cultivate.

    Now Lin Jiang''s cultivation speed is much faster than before, as he has invested more. The Spirit Gathering Formation and top-quality dan pills have cost him a lot of money, but they are definitely useful. Otherwise, Lin Jiang feels that it would take him another three to five decades to reach the ninth level of Qi Refining.

    Outside Lin Jiang''s house, a person watched for an hour and eventually left. They had already figured out Lin Jiang''s daily routine and knew that he rarely went out once he returned home.

    He went to a certain mansion and said to a middle-aged man, "Master, Jiang Lin has returned home again."

    "Still no intentions of leaving the city?"

    "No, after my observation, this person has a very introverted personality, doesn''t socialize much, and rarely goes out. I secretly inquired and found out that this person has been in Yunzhong City for many years, and it''s always been like this."

    "Yes, that''s the part about this person that I can''t figure out at all."

    "Master, does Jiang Lin really have valuable treasures on him?"

    "Hehe."

    The middle-aged man smiled. As far as he knew, Jiang Lin had quite a lot of wealth on him. He had been renting a house in South City for almost twenty years, paying an annual rent of four thousand spirit stones. It was not something an ordinary person could afford, let alone his other expenses. Even if he was the legitimate son of a big family, it would only be like this.

    "Master..."

    "Keep watching, we''ve been waiting for so many years, this period of time doesn''t make a difference. Once we capture this target, you and I won''t have to worry about our twenty years of cultivation."

    "Yes, master."

    The young man immediately and happily agreed. They had done this kind of thing many times before. His master had a special status and knew many wealthy people in Yunzhong City, and they would target these wealthy people.

    Of course, they wouldn''t just randomly target anyone. They had to investigate thoroughly, especially those who were rich but had no background or power. Those were the fatmbs in their eyes. Eating one of these fatmbs would bring them terrifying profits, more than what they would normally earn in several years.

    And this time, their target was an extremelyrge fatmb in their eyes. Eating just one of them would mean not having to worry about practicing for twenty years.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40

    There are two exnations for the origin of the name Yunzhong City. The first exnation is that it is made up of one character from the names of the Cloud Sword Sect and Zhonghang Sect, thus the name Yunzhong City.

    The second exnation is that Yunzhong City is located in the middle and lower reaches of the Yuntuo River, not too low, approaching the middle reaches. It is considered an intermediate stage, which is why it is called Yunzhong City.

    Neither sect has exined this, leaving it to the spection of the lower-level cultivators. It doesn''t matter to the interests of the two sects anyway.

    But regardless, it is a fact that Yunzhong City is close to the Yuntuo River. The distance between Yunzhong City and the Yuntuo River is only 800 li. However, at the site where the city was built, the distance is only 30 li. This is because frequent flooding caused the Soul Changing experts from both sects to forcefully redirect the Yuntuo River, deviating it from its original position. After over a thousand years of water erosion, the Yuntuo River is getting further away from Yunzhong City, and now it is already 800 li away.

    The Yuntuo River is a huge river that runs through most of Yun State. It is said to be over a thousand li wide at its widest point, and even at its narrowest point, it is still fifty to sixty li wide. It is a vital transportation lifeline for Yun State, and the sess of Yunzhong City is due to the Yuntuo River, which contributed half of its achievements.

    The Yuntuo River used to have many water demons, and even the Demon King had the power of Soul Changing. They caused trouble and harmed cultivators on both sides of the river.

    Later, the Zhonghang Sect, Cloud Sword Sect, and Five Elements Sect rose to power. They joined forces and defeated the Soul Changing level Demon King, as well as killed all the advanced demon beasts. Although there are still asional demon beast sightings in the Yuntuo River, they are no longer a threat. Whenever a powerful demon beast appears, it is listed on the bounty board in Yunzhong City, and many people are willing to go hunting for them.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    In this environment, the Yuntuo River fostered countless fishing enthusiasts. These fishing enthusiasts are incredibly crazy, some even spend months guarding the river for fish demons.бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Lin"

    One day, Lin Jiang went to the East City Market, and some familiar vendors greeted him.

    "What''s going on? Why are so many people gathered here?"

    Lin Jiang pointed to a stall on the other side and said, "That used to be Wen Xing''s stall, but he has changed owners several times since then. It''s quitemon for people to switch professions or pass away. A stall with the same owner for more than three years is considered longsting."

    "There''s a new fishing enthusiast who caught a lot of demon fish. It is said that he even caught a Longwhisker fish. Wow, he made a big profit. A Longwhisker fish is worth at least three thousand spirit stones."

    "Longwhisker fish, oh, that''s really delicious!"

    Lin Jiang nodded. In Yunzhong City, there was a high-end restaurant called Baiweilou that specialized in exquisite delicacies. They had a ssic dish called Sanjianghuo, with Longwhisker fish as the main ingredient. This famous dish was worth thousands of spirit stones and considered a legend among ordinary cultivators.

    "It''s a delicious food, but we can''t afford it."

    "That''s true."

    Lin Jiang nodded. These high-end delicacies were not worth their high price. The spiritual power they contained was not as good as ordinary delicacies. It was just hype. However, the taste of dishes like Sanjianghuo was indeed very good.

    However, for ordinary cultivators, spending thousands of spirit stones on a dish was crazy. These dishes were exclusively for cultivators at the Golden Core Period and above.

    As he arrived at his stall, Lin Jiang smelled a strong fishy odor. The neighboring stalls were simply not enough, with some monstrous fish weighing several thousand or tens of thousands of jin (a unit of weight), even though he had rented three stalls.

    Nevertheless, his business was booming. The taste of some of the monstrous fish was truly excellent, much better than ordinary monster beast meat.

    "Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, you won''t have the pleasure anymore."

    Lin Jiang said to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao in his heart, "They haven''t woken up yet. If they wake up, Lin Jiang will definitely change their taste."

    After more than two hours, it seemed like the vendor next door had sold out of fish. The owner of the stall walked over with a apologetic look on his face and said, "Excuse me, taoist friend, I apologize for the trouble caused."

    "Taoist friend Liu, please don''t worry. It is inevitable. Independent cultivator Lin Yu greets you."

    "So, it''s Taoist Friend Lin. As an apology, please ept this small gift."

    Liu Hui held two fish in his hands and handed them to Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang took a look and saw that they were ordinary first-level demon fish, simr to the Silver Arrow Fish he had previously raised.

    "Please don''t be polite, taoist friend. I cannot ept this gift."

    "Taoist friend, we have rented this stall for one year. In the future..."

    "It''s alright. I won''t be setting up the stall for long."

    Lin Jiang shook his head and didn''t want to say more. Liu Hui felt a bit awkward, but didn''t insist.

    Liu Hui wanted to give presents to more than just Lin Jiang. He gave presents to several nearby stalls, but only Lin Jiang didn''t ept. Lin Jiang has always been independent, and everyone has gotten used to it. After all, there''s only one person who sets up a stall for less than four hours every day, and that''s Lin Jiang.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, how much is your spiritual talisman?"

    After a while, a voice came from the side, and Lin Jiang turned around. It was a pretty and elegant-looking female cultivator, who was also a neighboring vendor. She bore some resemnce to Liu Hui and Lin Jiang wondered if she was Liu Hui''s sister or daughter.

    "The first level premium spiritual talisman for attack costs ten spirit stones. The defensive ones cost twelve spirit stones, and there are nine auxiliary spiritual talismans for other purposes."

    Lin Jiang spoke up, exining that different spiritual talismans have different prices. Not all spiritual talismans have the same price, but overall, the ones for attack sell the best, and Lin Jiang makes the most of them.

    "If I buy more defensive spiritual talismans, can you give me a discount?"

    "If you buy five or more, I''ll deduct one spirit stone."

    "Can I exchange it for a demon fish?"

    "No, you can''t."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes and wondered what he was thinking. He didn''t really like eating fish, after all, he had been eating for decades at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi and got bored of it. In Yunzhong City, he had eaten a lot as well, and most of the demon fish in the market had be a bit tiresome for him.

    "Alright, then I''ll buy six defensive spiritual talismans."

    "That will be sixty-six spirit stones."

    Lin Jiang disyed all the defensive spiritual talismans. This stuff wasn''t easy to sell, so he had some stock of it. He let her choose for herself.

    After getting along for half a month, Lin Jiang gradually learned some things about the neighboring stall. The middle-aged man was named Liu Hui and the one who bought spiritual talismans from Lin Jiang was called Liu Yuan. He also had a daughter named Liu Siyu, who was extremely stunning. However, Liu Siyu rarely appeared, only asionally once or twice, because every time she appeared, she would attract a lot of attention from people, and some even recklessly proposed to Liu Hui, so he usually didn''t let his daughter show up.

    It wasn''t actually a good thing for a poor family to have a beautiful daughter, and the reasons for this need not be mentioned. Of course, Liu Hui also had some background. He was a member of the Trident Fish Gang outside the city, and everyone in his family was a member of this gang. His grandfather was even an Elder at the Building Foundation Period.

    Lin Jiang also learned a lot about the things outside the city from their conversations. Yunzhong City and its surroundings were heavily dependent on the Yuntuo River for survival. However, due to the huge benefits, the river had been divided into many gangs. Each gang controlled arge section of the river and monopolized all the fishing within their territory.

    However, they couldn''tpletely eliminate everyone. Ordinary people could still fish; how many fish they could catch depended on their ability. But fishings and fishing boats were strictly prohibited, and anyone caught doing so would be attacked by the fish gangs.

    These fish gangs were actually under the control of two major sects, serving as their scapegoats. The fish gangs were hated by everyone, as the true profits were taken by the two major sects. Everyone knew this, but no one dared to speak up about it.

    There were often fights between different fishing gangs. It was normal for them to fight over catches. It was rare for a year to pass without some deaths. Liu Hui''s family belonged to the Trident Fish Gang, which was one of the strongest gangs outside the city. However, Liu Hui had lost seven or eight family members, including his two sons, in the gang fights.

    "Cultivation is not easy."

    Lin Jiang knew these things and could only sigh, cultivating immortality is truly not easy.

    However, a n slowly emerged in Lin Jiang''s mind, a n that would be enough to bring out the person who was secretly watching him.

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41

    "Boom"

    The two young men flew backward, causing the Thousand Coil Formation to copse. The middle-aged man was shocked at this sight, but quickly epted it. A flying sword slowly appeared in front of him.

    "Shi Tong, don''t you have anything else to say?"

    "Taoist Friend Jiang is indeed clever, you guessed it was me."

    "Not many people can mention my old name, only a few. But to know that I am wealthy, only you know it now."

    Lin Jiang said, after changing his name and cutting ties with everything from before, only Duobao Pavilion remained, because Lin Jiang couldn''t bear to lose the benefits from there.

    The only person who knows his name and knows he is wealthy is the Duobao Pavilion steward, Shi Tong, who received him every time.

    Knowing it was him, Lin Jiang sighed. He had been cooperating with Duobao Pavilion for decades, and their reputation was indeed very good. But he didn''t expect someone like Shi Tong to exist. If this incident were to be exposed, it would destroy Duobao Pavilion''s centuries-old reputation, and Duobao Pavilion would not spare Shi Tong''s entire family.

    "Great, if you have anything else to say, you can continue. This is yourst chance.""When did you start following me?"

    "Green Rock Pill"

    "Did you buy my Green Rock Pill?"

    "That''s right, without the Green Rock Pill, I might not have been able to build a foundation. I am already getting old."

    Shi Tong said that he bought the Green Rock Pill and gave it to a respected elder. After receiving guidance, he got the opportunity to build a foundation.

    "So, it seems I am not the first person you have killed."

    "Hmm, not the first, but not many either."

    Shi Tong said that he has encountered countless customers at Duobao Pavilion. If he killed everyone, he would have died long ago. He carefully chose his targets, and over the course of several decades, he has only killed seven or eight people, but each one made him a huge profit.

    "Is Mo Lin someone you know?"

    "That''s right, and the one with him is another disciple of mine. I''ve answered so many of your questions, so now you answer one of mine."

    "Go ahead, tell me."

    "Where did you get the Green Rock Pill, and why don''t you use it yourself?"

    "That''s two questions."

    "Hehe."

    "Because I have money, not only do I have the Green Rock Pill, but I''ve also taken the Gu Xi Pill. You know about the Gu Xi Pill, right? Mortals say life is rare at seventy years, but one Gu Xi Pill can extend life by seventy years. So, you''ve known me for almost thirty years, and I still look so young."

    Lin Jiang said to Shi Tong. Liese effortlessly to him, without a hint of embarrassment.

    However, Shi Tong believed it. He had known Lin Jiang for many years, and Lin Jiang always had a youthful appearance. Either he had taken the Appearance Fixing Pill, or he had consumed a longevity treasure. But Shi Tong believed Lin Jiang had taken a longevity treasure because he didn''t even want the Green Rock Pill and chose to sell it.

    Shi Tong believed that Lin Jiang still had secrets, but he couldn''t extract them, so Shi Tong took action. A sword aura surged out from Shi Tong''s flying sword and shot towards Lin Jiang.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang shouted explosively and also unleashed his flying sword.

    "Boom"

    The flying sword and sword aura collided, the sword aura dissipated, and Lin Jiang''s flying sword turned into pieces.

    "Squeak"

    "Squeak"

    Just at that moment, two crisp sounds rang out. Two bright lights appeared on Lin Jiang''s body and swiftly came in front of Shi Tong.

    "Screech"

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao appeared. They woke up just half a month ago and now they have reached the initial stage of the second level of power, which is equivalent to the beginning stage of building foundation.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao instantly broke through Shi Tong''s defense. Big Shadiao grabbed his shoulder and pulled, ripping off arge piece of flesh and blood. Small Shadiao was even more vicious, pecking a dark hole in his chest with its beak.

    "Aurora falcon, you, you..."

    After Shi Tong let out a scream, he eximed, remembering that Aurora falcon was once well-known in Yunzhong City. The young master He Yunwei from the He family died because of the cultivator who had two Aurora falcon beast pets. At this moment, Shi Tong understood everything.

    "Kill him."

    Lin Jiang said coldly. He didn''t know if anyone else remembered the incident involving the He family, but Lin Jiang didn''t let the Aurora falcon fly too high, to avoid being seen by others.

    "Chirp chirp."

    The two Shadiao birds, one on the left and one on the right, pounced on Shi Tong once again. Lin Jiang himself also charged forward again, determined to make Shi Tong die in the second round.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Shi Tong''s face turned pale. The Overlord Scroll was a gift he had given to Lin Jiang, so he naturally knew about the Explosive Element Technique, but he had never practiced it himself. When he saw Lin Jiang using it now, his heart ached even more. He felt that if he were to die today, it would be his own fault.

    Shi Tong was severely wounded. He had already put all his strength into defense. He summoned two shields to block the attacks of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, while using his flying sword to intercept Lin Jiang''s attacks.

    "Bang"

    The flying sword turned into fragments once again. Magical tools were no match for spiritual weapons. However, Lin Jiang didn''t care at all and took out another flying sword.

    Lin Jiang didn''t even consider using a silver needle, because he had bought it from Duobao Pavilion and Shi Tong must have been prepared for it. Lin Jiang wanted to crush Shi Tong face-to-face.

    "Ying..."

    Suddenly, the cries of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao changedpletely. Their voices became mournful and piercing. After Shi Tong heard it, he felt his consciousness blur for a moment. Though it was only a moment, it still made him feel despair. The next moment, he felt a chill on his neck.

    "Plop"

    The flying sword sliced through Shi Tong''s neck. Shi Tong saw his headless body still standing there, with a strong sense of resentment. Eventually, he lost all consciousness.

    "Come in quickly."

    Lin Jiang waved to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, signaling them to enter the Spirit Beast Bag. The final move to kill Shi Tong came from the awakened divine skill of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Their cries could impact the target''s soul, causing them to briefly lose focus.

    The Aurora falcon was already incredibly fast. Even in an instant, it could kill its prey. It was just that this time, Lin Jiang was a step ahead.

    They searched through the three individuals'' storage bags and took everything they had. The bodies of the three were thrown into Yuntuo River, which was filled with countlessrge and small fish. Within a day, they would be devouredpletely, not even leaving any bone scraps behind.

    "What a waste of that fishing rod."

    Lin Jiang sighed. That fishing rod, crafted with several thousand spirit stones, was now gone.

    "Taoist Friend Lin"

    After a while, members of the Trident Fish Gang appeared, led by Liu Jie.

    "Taoist friend Liu"

    "Taoist Friend Lin, what''s happening here? Why is there a disturbance in the battle of the Building Foundation Period?"

    "Someone I didn''t know was fighting nearby, but they''ve already left. I just ran out and even lost my fishing rod."

    Lin Jiang''s acting skills burst again as he made a scared expression and said, "There aren''t many rules here at Yuntuo River. Countless fights happen here every day. Liu Jie and them have already sensed the spiritual energy disturbance, but it''s only at the Building Foundation Period level. They would be silly toe here. They onlye to take a look after the disturbance stops."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Liu Jie looked at the ground and then at the river. He realized that Lin Jiang seemed to be lying, but he didn''t expose him. Survival skills for low-level cultivators are very skillful. If you don''t want to die fast, you have to speak less.

    "Taoist Friend Lin lost his fishing rod, it''s not a big deal. I''ll help you find it."

    Liu Jie said, then called a few followers who were skilled in water techniques and asked them to search in the river.

    The Trident Fish Gang makes a living by the river and has gathered arge number of practitioners of water techniques. Some of them are fierce enough to fight water demons barehanded in Yuntuo River. They specialize in this and are very professional.

    This sentence is from a story book, please trante it into English: 1. It took about two hours, and three followers with the Qi Refining Period dragged Lin Jiang''s fishing rod back. They even brought back the fish, and Liu Jie found out for the first time that Lin Jiang''s fishing rod was so expensive.

    Lin Jiang wanted to return the fishing rod and gave them the demon fish as a gift. He also took out a hundred spirit stones as a thank you fee and invited them to drink. Then, he returned to Yunzhong City.

    After erasing the mark of Shi Tong''s storage bag, Lin Jiang opened his own bag. Inside, he found many things, including more than thirty thousand spirit stones. Among them, there were about ten medium-grade spirit stones, which were worth a hundred low-grade spirit stones each. The total value added up to at least fifty to sixty thousand spirit stones. His wealth in the Building Foundation Period was considered prosperous.

    The storage bags of the other two people were much poorer, probably not worth more than five thousand spirit stones. But that was still good. They made a big profit in this battle.

    "Shi Tong has the habit of keeping a diary. He''s not a serious person after all."

    In Shi Tong''s storage bag, Lin Jiang also found a diary. It wasn''t written on jade slips but on ordinary paper. Lin Jiang flipped through it and saw Shi Tong''s journey of growth.

    Shi Tong was an ordinary person. When he was twelve years old, Cloud Sword Sect came to their vige to test the children''s Spiritual Roots. He had Three Spiritual Roots talents and was epted as a disciple, although only as an outer disciple.

    In the first ten years of his cultivation, it was very tough for Shi Tong. He was always bullied, mostly due to his character. Until one day, after being bullied again, he had a sudden realization and started learning how to curry favor and please people. Eventually, he obtained the task of guarding the Duobao Pavilion in Yunzhong City.

    Life went smoothly at the Duobao Pavilion. However, the ie from the pavilion was still too low. That''s why he came up with the idea of robbing the customers. But Shi Tong was very cautious. He had strict requirements for his targets, such as having wealth, being low-profile, and having no strong backing. He would only take action when these requirements were met. He could spend several years nning and arranging, so he rarely failed.

    The only time he failed was with Mo Lin. Mo Lin was his confidant and they were fellow vigers from the same vige. However, Mo Lin had poor aptitude and was not epted as a disciple by Cloud Sword Sect. As a result, he became an independent cultivator.

    "It was the Green Rock Pill that made Shi Tong decide to target me. It seems I''ll have to give up my status at the Duobao Pavilion."

    After reading Shi Tong''s diary, Lin Jiang knew where the problem was. He had decided topletely abandon the identity of Jiang Lin. Even if Duobao Pavilion offered more benefits, he didn''t want them. Stability was now the most important thing.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42

    Lin Jiangpletely gave up the identity of Jiang Lin. As long as he didn''t go to Duobao Pavilion anymore, it was fine. He threw away all the tokens rted to Duobao Pavilion and no longer kept in touch with his previous friends.

    Shi Tong had died, and now no one knew this identity anymore. Lin Jiang decided to live as Lin Yu for another twenty years, and then he would change again. If he couldn''t stay in Yunzhong City anymore, he would find another ce. He now had the basic ability to protect himself. Both Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao had reached the second level. Even if he encountered someone at the Building Foundation Period, he could still escape safely.

    "Friend Lin, why aren''t you going fishing?"

    Two monthster, when Liu Yuan came to buy a spiritual talisman, she said to Lin Jiang.

    "Just y fishing for a while. Don''t get addicted. Take a break for now and go againter."

    Lin Jiang said. He didn''t sell most of the fish he caught, and he couldn''t eat them all himself. They were made into dried fish. He had umted over ten thousand kilograms, enough for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to eat for a while. He would figure out what to do after they finished eating.

    Of course, the most important thing was that he had already caught the big fish, Shi Tong. Fishing was no longer that important.

    "Really envy you, Taoist Friend Lin"

    Liu Yuan said, fishing is fun to Lin Jiang, but for their family, it is necessary for survival. It''s not just for fun, and Liu Yuan also envies Lin Jiang for that."Being an independent cultivator is not easy. Liu Fairy, don''t think that I have it easy. I am also quite sad and poor."

    Lin Jiang quickly ys the poor card, because showing off wealth has made him a target twice. He needs to be more low-key in the future.

    It''s nice to cry and pretend to be poor for no reason.

    "Taoist Friend Lin is right. Being an independent cultivator is not easy. So, Taoist Friend Lin, are you interested in bing a rtive of my Liu family?"

    Liu Hui, who was nearby, overheard and walked over to Lin Jiang.

    "Bing a rtive?"

    "Yes, my younger sister Liu Yuan is 27 years old this year, with a cultivation level of the sixthyer of Qi Refining and a four Spiritual Root talent. Although her talent for cultivation isn''t very good, she is very diligent and helps me in my daily life..."

    "Brother, what did you say?"

    When Liu Yuan heard this, she quickly interrupted Liu Hui''s words, her face immediately turned red, and she was so embarrassed that she stomped her feet.

    "Go sell the fish first. I will talk to Taoist Friend Lin. You are getting older. If you don''t get married soon, you might not be able to find a husband."

    "I don''t want to get married. I want to cultivate and live a long life."

    "Living a long life? In this Yunzhong City, there are very few cultivators who can reach the golden core stage. What are you thinking?"

    Liu Hui shook his head. It was impossible for someone with four spiritual roots to achieve immortality, even in the Building Foundation Period. In fact, people with four spiritual roots in the Building Foundation Period are extremely rare. Perhaps only some big ns can afford to cultivate one or two individuals with four spiritual roots in the Building Foundation Period. For ordinary people, reaching the Qi Refining Period is the limit.

    Liu Yuan heard this and immediately looked sad. Having average talent was the biggest obstacle for a cultivator. With the same elixir, someone with good talent could absorb 70-80% of its effects, while someone with poor talent could only absorb 20-30%. It was difficult topare oneself with others, especially when lower-level cultivators were alsocking money and couldn''t afford many elixirs.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, what do you think? Our Liu family is actually not poor. More than thirty of us are part of the Trident Fish Gang. With our support, you won''t have any trouble selling your spiritual talismans. We will find a way to help you build a foundation."

    "Taoist Friend Liu, I possess the talent of Five Spiritual Roots."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said, "Even without their help, I have no trouble selling my spiritual talismans. I just need good talent, without any other excuses."

    "Five Spiritual Rootsг┐"

    Liu Hui was dumbfounded for a moment. He found it hard to believe that Lin Jiang, who looked quite young, was already at the eighth level of Qi Refining cultivation, and also skilled in talisman techniques. In his opinion, this would require at least Three Spiritual Roots.

    Only then would it be worth marrying his sister to this person because he wanted to find another helper for the Liu family, someone in the Building Foundation Period, who might be able to protect their family for a hundred years.

    "Yes, it is indeed Five Spiritual Roots. So there''s no need to mention this matter again. Thank you, Taoist Friend Liu, for your kindness."

    "I was impolite."

    Liu Hui breathed a sigh of relief. He was really afraid that Lin Jiang would agree. If out of a hundred building foundation periods there might be three or five with three spiritual roots, then the probability of having five spiritual roots was almost zero. He didn''t want his sister to marry someone with no future.

    Lin Jiang smiled and said no more. Liu Hui quickly returned to his own stall.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Star Gathering Tower is another top-notch business in Yunzhong City, on par with Duobao Pavilion. They arepetitors with simr scopes of business.

    Duobao Pavilion is backed by Cloud Sword Sect, while Star Gathering Tower is backed by Zhonghang Sect. Since Shi Tong''s incident, Lin Jiang has not visited Duobao Pavilion.

    But Lin Jiang doesn''t trust other businesses either, so he can only buy and sell items at Star Gathering Tower. Duobao Pavilion lost a valuable customer like Lin Jiang. After all, customers like Lin Jiang are considered precious. Over the years, Lin Jiang''s transactions at Duobao Pavilion have already surpassed two hundred thousand. Just a single Green Rock Pill costs over one hundred thousand.

    Star Gathering Tower also has a simr consumer loyalty program. The more points umted, the higher the privileges and discounts. Lin Jiang managed to reach the initial VIP level within half a year, making him eligible to attend themunication meetings held by Star Gathering Tower.

    However, themunication meetings for Qi Refining Period are not as attractive to Lin Jiang, so he rarely attends. His main purpose is to buy high-quality items, such as the Spirit Gathering Pill and Energy Nourishing Pill that he uses for cultivation.

    Each time, he quicklypletes his purchases in the same generous manner as before. Aftering home, Lin Jiang takes out dried fish jerky to amuse Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    After advancing, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao have be evenrger in size and can no longer stand on Lin Jiang''s shoulders.

    "Go."

    Lin Jiang throws the jerky and Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao jump up topete for it. Since the house is too small for them to fly, they walk on the ground with a distinctive, carefree stride, showcasing their true "Shadiao" nature.

    After ying with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, Lin Jiang took out a long sword and began practicing the One Sword Flying Immortal technique. He has been practicing this secret technique for many years, but he hasn''t been able to master it. Recently, he has been making some progress, so Lin Jiang decided to invest more time into it.

    After practicing for two hours, Lin Jiang finally stopped and returned home. He could feel the strong spiritual energy in his house. Ever since defeating Shi Tong, Lin Jiang added some spirit stones to the Spirit Gathering Formation, reaching a daily total of thirty.

    This level of consumption is manageable for Lin Jiang for now. He hopes to reach the Building Foundation Period as soon as possible. In the cultivation world, they say that the Building Foundation Period is when true cultivation begins. The Qi Refining Period is not much different from being an ordinary person.

    This can be justified because during the Building Foundation Period, a cultivator''s body undergoes tremendous changes from the inside out. For example, in the Building Foundation Period, one can almost give up sleeppletely, while in the Qi Refining Period, sleep is still necessary.

    Another example is food. Even if one in the Building Foundation Period stops eating entirely, their body will not starve, but this is not possible in the Qi Refining Period.

    Another important aspect is the strength of the soul. Compared to the Qi Refining Period, there is a qualitative change in the Building Foundation Period. From the perspective of ordinary people, the Building Foundation Period and ordinary people are like two different species.

    Moreover, from a practical standpoint, the Building Foundation Period and the Qi Refining Period are at different levels. There are many cultivators in the Qi Refining Period in Yunzhong City, just like rice, but there are rtively few in the Building Foundation Period. Naturally, their status is higher, and they have the qualifications for many things that Qi Refining Period cultivators cannot participate in.

    The most important point is that the strength in the Building Foundation Period is much stronger. Lin Jiang is a person whocks a sense of security, so he needs immense power to give him that sense of security, which the Qi Refining Period cannot provide.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Because of these reasons, Lin Jiang has changed his previous passive attitude and has be more proactive in his cultivation. If there was a model worker selection, Lin Jiang believes he would definitely be chosen.

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43

    Time flew by once again, in the blink of an eye, Lin Jiang was already one hundred and forty years old. This year, Lin Jiang finally reached the ninth level of Qi Refining.

    On this day of breakthrough, Lin Jiang alone drank a jar of spirit wine to celebrate. He didn''t use his spiritual power to dispel the alcohol, allowing himself to get drunk.

    "Third Sister, Lin Ying, when can we go visit our mother?"

    The drunken Lin Jiang kept muttering, but unfortunately, there was no one to listen. Only two Shadiao were left stealing the leftovers and spirit wine that Lin Jiang had.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend Wu, it seems that Brother Liu and his family haven''te for a few days."

    On that day, Lin Jiang went to the big market and saw that the stalls beside him were empty. He couldn''t help but ask the vendor on the other side.

    "Don''t you know, Friend Lin? The Trident Fish Gang and the Giant Wave Fish Gang have been at war these past few days. Liu Hui and his family are key members of the Trident Fish Gang, how can they be absent?"

    "Gang war?""Yes, if Taoist Friend Lin usually buys groceries and cooks, you should know that prices in the city have been skyrocketing these days. Not only the price of monster fish has soared, but also other things. They keep fighting and have caused damage to many passing ships. Those who run restaurants areining too."

    The vendor exined that the Fish Gang not only monopolized the fishing in the Yuntuo River, but also controlled the river. The two Fish Gangs fighting each other has also affected some shipping, causing a disruption in the supply of goods to Yunzhong City and directly leading to a sharp rise in prices.

    "What about Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect?"

    Lin Jiang was somewhat surprised. The fighting between the two gangs had affected the stability of Yunzhong City, but shouldn''t it be the Thunder Sects that intervened?

    "Taoist Friend Lin, are you really foolish or pretending to be foolish? Without the agreement of those two sects, would the two gangs dare to fight?"

    "That''s true. I didn''t think it through. I don''t know the current situation and which gang has a higher chance of winning."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I don''t know either, but I''ve heard that both gangs are recruiting people to help in the battle. If Taoist Friend Lin is interested, he can make some money."

    "I''ll pass. I don''t like fighting. It''s better to live a peaceful and honest life."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. The leader of the fish gang outside the city all have advanced cultivation, and there are also many senior members with strong skills. He didn''t want to get involved in this because it''s not easy money.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang also investigated the reasons for the war between the two families. It is said that the cause was trespassing while fishing. The members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang were driving fishing boats and chasing a group of monsters. They ended up intruding into the territory of the Trident Fish Gang. The Trident Fish Gang sank their fishing boats, and that''s when the war started between them.

    But the real reasons should be veryplex. It involves a power struggle between two major sects, conflicts of interest between each other, as well as unresolved grievances.

    Under the stimtion of numerous contradictions, both families are willing to do whatever it takes to annihte each other. They have been fighting for five or six days now, with dozens of casualties on both sides every day. It''s very intense and it seems like they won''t stop until one family is wiped out.

    This whole thing was originally far away from Lin Jiang and had nothing to do with him. However, when Lin Jiang arrived at the marketce the next day, Liu Yuan was already waiting for him. As soon as Lin Jiang saw her, he realized something and ran away.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang"

    Liu Yuan is also at the ninth level of Qi Refining cultivation. Although her aptitude is not very good, she is indeed a cultivation maniac. Apart from the necessary time, she spends all of her time practicing.

    "Miss Liu, why are you stopping me?"

    "Then why are you running?"

    "We are still cooking at home, don''t let it burn."

    "I didn''t invite you to join our Trident Fish Gang."

    Liu Yuan said that during the fight between the two gangs, they quickly recruited members, often by hiring poor independent cultivators as cannon fodder. Many of those who died in Yunzhong City these days were this kind of cannon fodder. Liu Yuan knew Lin Jiang''s personality, so she wouldn''t say something like that.

    "Then why did youe looking for me?"

    "To do business, buy spiritual talismans."

    "That doesn''t make sense. If you want to buy spiritual talismans, shouldn''t you go to a big tradingpany like Duobao Pavilion or Star Gathering Tower? They have at least a hundred Talisman Makers. At the very least, you could go to a medium-sized tradingpany like Four Seas Trading Company, where they have about thirty to fifty Talisman Makers."

    Lin Jiang exined that these tradingpanies have their own Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation masters, but not many. However, they also have arge number of cooperative Talisman Makers.

    Although the prices the Talisman Makers offer them are slightly lower, they are preferred because of their stability and convenience. As long as they can draw spiritual talismans, the Talisman Makers will purchase them. That''s why it''s considered quite desirable to work with them.

    Many tradingpanies have approached Lin Jiang, but he turned them down because his life was too monotonous. Setting up a stall was more of a way to spice up his life.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, you don''t know, the conflicts between the Fish Gang have always had rules. Small-scale conflicts are ignored, but once the two gangs officially go to war, Yunzhong City''s businesses will take a neutral stance, refusing to sell spiritual talismans to either side. This applies not just to businesses in Yunzhong City, but also to the influences within a three-thousand-mile radius outside of Yunzhong City."

    "Because of the two sects?"

    "Yes, everyone knows. Behind the Fish Gang are two major sects. They don''t personally get involved because they don''t want to divide themselves. As small soldiers, we can only fight with determination. If we survive, we enjoy fame, wealth, and honor. If we lose, we die."

    "Strange and weird."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, finding these rules quite strange. But he could understand. This is a war fought by proxies of the two sects. The sects themselves won''t personally engage, unless one of them weakens.

    "Taoist friend Jiang, please help. The consumption of spiritual talismans is very high now."

    "I want to take a neutral stance."

    "I''m willing to pay more money."

    "I don''t want to meddle in your affairs. I just want to live a peaceful life."

    "Taoist Friend Jiang is very famous in East City Market. If we don''t ask for your help, the Giant Wave Fish Gang will. Taoist Friend Jiang can choose to remain neutral, but please don''t help them."

    "I won''t help, I won''t help. But if I set up a stall and someone wants to buy something, I won''t refuse."

    "Of course, I''m here to buy charms from Taoist Friend Jiang, and I will be staying in East City Market for the next few days."

    Liu Yuan said that independent cultivators are usually not controlled by the major factions, so the rules of gang wars don''t apply to independent cultivators. Both factions have sent people to the market where independent cultivators gather to gather all the avable resources.

    Lin Jiang sighed. Liu Yuan''s mind works quickly, it seems inevitable unless he doesn''t set up a stall.

    Indeed, it didn''t take long before a young man, ignoring Liu Yuan''s presence, personally approached Lin Jiang and proposed a partnership.

    If both sides cooperate, the Giant Wave Fish Gang will provide the materials for drawing symbols, and Lin Jiang only needs to focus on drawing symbols. For every symbol he sells to them, the price can be negotiated and even include a slight increase from the market price. If a certain quantity is reached, they can even be rewarded with some spirit stones.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, the conditions he proposed, our Trident Fish Gang can also provide. The price can be negotiated."

    Liu Yuan couldn''t afford to be angry and couldn''t make a move here, so they began topete forbat supplies. Whoever manages to gather more supplies will have a better chance of winning.

    "Children make choices, adults have to take everything. Anyway, I now have eight talismans every day, the price is unchanged, and the time for setting up a stall every day is also unchanged. Whoever wants to buy, can buy."

    Lin Jiang said directly, both of these families have gone crazy, but he didn''t want to get involved. He had only one attitude, "I am a talisman seller, whoever wants to buy, can buy."

    After Lin Jiang advanced to the ninth level of Qi Refining, his strength reached a higher level. His spiritual power was extremely abundant, plus he had been practicing the Soul Refining Technique for decades and took Soul Nourishing Pills. This made his spiritual awareness very strong. He could draw around eight first grade premium spiritual talismans every day, which was twice as efficient as other Talisman Makers.

    Moreover, Lin Jiang now had a hundred percent sess rate with over seventy types of first grade premium spiritual talismans. He wouldn''t waste a single talisman because he had been drawing first level premium spiritual talismans for decades. His consistent effort over the years made his talisman drawing technique one of the best among his peers.

    This is also the reason why both families approached Lin Jiang first. He truly has a reputation in the East City Market, and he has a number of regr customers.

    When the two people heard Lin Jiang say this, they didn''t say anything more, nor did they threaten. They were afraid of pushing Lin Jiang to the other side. A talented Talisman Maker may not have a significant impact on the battle, but if there were a hundred or more, it would bepletely possible. And a hundred or more Talisman Makers were made up of individual Talisman Makers.

    The two immediately divided the spiritual talismans brought by Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang went straight home after finishing work. He even felt the need to avoid it. He always kept away from such troublesome matters.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44

    Wars are fought for money. This principle applies even in the cultivation world.

    So, when most of the shops were restricted from operating, the independent cultivators had a great time during this war, starting with recruiting new members.

    The Trident Fish Gang and the Giant Wave Fish Gang didn''t have many people. Normally they only had a core group of two to three hundred people, plus four to five hundred peripheral members. It was difficult to join their core group because they had high requirements.

    But once the war started, in less than seven days, both gangs grew intorge factions of four to five thousand people each. It was because they kept spending money to recruit more peripheral members. The required upfront payment for the Qi Refining Period increased from ten spirit stones per day to thirty spirit stones, depending on the person. There were also rewards for achievements in battle, so poor independent cultivators from Yunzhong City flocked to join them.

    Another significant factor was the consumption of various resources. We don''t need to mention the basic needs like food and shelter, but the resources for cultivation andbat were also rapidly depleted. Although some small shops participated secretly, the main force consisted of arger number of independent cultivators. Even Lin Jiang, the invisible man, benefited from this situation. Various spiritual talismans were selling well, just like during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration a few years ago.

    "Why do I feel like it''s the two major sects clearing out the lower-ss poption in the city?"

    Lin Jiang watched all sorts of bizarre things happening in the war between the two gangs. He doubted whether the two major sects were intentionally clearing out the poption in Yunzhong City.

    Yunzhong City had a poption of one million, and ny percent of them were Qi Refining Period independent cultivators. These cultivators were extremely impoverished. Although the two major sects had always maintained strict rules to protect Yunzhong City, for these desperate cultivators, these rules were not always helpful. There were countless people willing to take risks for spirit stones.

    So, from the perspective of the two major sects, it was normal to periodically clear out a group of lower-ss poptions. The gang war was a great means for them. They could recruit many independent cultivators at low prices, especially those who were poor, inclined towards violence, and had a strong vengeful spirit.бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Liu Yuan disappeared."

    On the twenty-seventh day of the war between the two gangs, Liu Yuan didn''t show up at the East City Market. Lin Jiang, being observant, sensed that something might have happened to the Trident Fish Gang.

    As expected, in less than an hour, the cultivator responsible for purchasing supplies from the Giant Wave Fish Gang openly stated at the market, "The Trident Fish Gang is no more. Yesterday, the Trident Fish Gang and our Giant Wave Fish Gang had a battle at the mouth of the Yuntuo River. fuliu-jian, the leader of our Giant Wave Fish Gang, killed the leader of the Trident Fish Gang, Song Yi. More than seven hundred members of the Trident Fish Gang were killed..."

    The news caused amotion at the market. The Trident Fish Gang and the Giant Wave Fish Gang had simr strength, and their leaders had simr cultivation levels. No one expected the Trident Fish Gang to lose and suffer such heavy casualties. The end of the independent cultivators'' celebration was near.

    In the afternoon, more news came. It was indeed true that the Trident Fish Gang had been wiped out. In the battle between the two gangs, they had deployed their key members. However, during the battle, the Grand Elder of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, who was originally only at the Building Foundation Period, unexpectedly revealed his Golden Core cultivation level. Along with their leader fuliu-jian, they killed the leader of the Trident Fish Gang, Song Yi.

    With their leader dead, the remaining members of the Trident Fish Gang were no longer a threat. Most of their key members were killed, and the rest fled. Now, the Giant Wave Fish Gang should be taking over the territory of the Trident Fish Gang.

    "I won''t eat fish from Yunzhong City for a year."

    Lin Jiang heard the details of the battle between the two gangs and learned that most of the casualties were pushed into the Yuntuo River. This made Lin Jiang feel disgusted, and he decided not to touch the demon fish from Yunzhong City for a year.

    However, the next day, Lin Jiang unexpectedly saw the Liu Hui family at the East City Market. Liu Hui, Liu Yuan, Liu Siyu, and Liu Jie''s son, Liu Dong. There were a total of four of them, and they looked very disheveled. Liu Hui even had a broken arm, and Liu Yuan had a terrible wound on her face.

    They were surrounded by about ten cultivators, who continuously insulted and provoked them, but never took the initiative to attack. It seemed that they were from the Giant Wave Fish Gang.

    "Taoist Friend Wu, what''s going on?"

    "Taoist Friend Lin, every time youe sote, you can''t even catch up to the melon eating."

    "Haha, that''s true. Taoist Friend Wu, why don''t you exin."

    "What else could be happening? Trident Fish Gang was defeated, most of them were killed, and Taoist Friend Liu''s family managed to survive for now. They took refuge in Yunzhong City, where fighting is not allowed. They can temporarily avoid danger, but unfortunately, it''s only a matter of time before they meet their end."

    "If they have money, maybe they can survive and stay outside the city."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you''re simplifying it. They''re not like you, who have skills to make a living in the city. What will they do when they run out of money? Although Yunzhong City doesn''t have a curfew, can you keep wandering around on the streets forever? Can you go without eating and sleeping? After a few months, a person will go crazy. And besides, can''t the Giant Wave Fish Gang hire a few mercenaries?"

    The vendor next to them said, Yunzhong City can only provide them with temporary hiding opportunities. If it''s for a long time, it''s definitely not possible. Qi Refining Period cultivators need to eat and sleep, even ifpared to ordinary people, they canst a long time, but there is a limit.

    Even if Liu Hui''s family is fully equipped with money, it won''t work. Giant Wave Fish Gang is not stupid. They can hire a few independent cultivators to fight them. As long as nobody dies, Yunzhong City won''t kill anyone, but they will be expelled. Once expelled outside the city, it will be awless ce. So, Liu Hui''s family is doomed.

    "What a pity."

    "Indeed, it is a pity. She was such a lovely youngdy."

    Taoist Friend Wu looked at Liu Siyu and said, "It has been over ten years, but Liu Siyu is still as beautiful as ever. She even has more charm than when she was young."

    "Yes, beautiful women always make people feel sorry for them."

    "Taoist Friend Lin is wealthy. Maybe you can go and pay for a good night with the beautifuldy."

    "What can we do about it?"

    "Hmph, there are plenty of brothels outside the city. The men of the Trident Fish Gang die in battle, and women are just the same. Once their meridians are blocked and their cultivation is sealed, they are sold into the brothels. With Liu Siyu''s looks, she can easily be sold for a few hundred spirit stones."

    "That''s true."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I can see that you have a good rtionship with the Liu family. Let me give you a piece of advice: Liu Hui will definitelye looking for you. You must not be soft-hearted. If you shelter them, the Giant Wave Fish Gang will not spare you. The Liu family is a key part of the Trident Fish Gang."

    "What I know"

    Lin Jiang nodded. The Giant Wave Fish Gang is very strong. They have at least ten people in the Building Foundation Period and hundreds of followers. Lin Jiang is alone, so he won''t do such a silly thing.

    Taoist Friend Wu''s words are very reasonable. Liu Hui has already started asking for help from each stall, hoping someone will take them in. As long as they have a ce to stay, they can support themselves in Yunzhong City for a long time. Maybe they can change their fate.

    But the people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang are watching closely. No one dares to help.

    "Taoist Friend Linбдбдбдбд"

    Finally, Liu Hui and his family arrived at Lin Jiang''s stall.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I..."

    "I am just a cultivator who works alone."

    The people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang also greeted Lin Jiang. The leader is the person who came to buy supplies before and has already met Lin Jiang.

    "Taoist Friend Lin is a smart person, we won''t make things difficult for you. The people from the Liu family are in big trouble. Taoist Friend Lin is really kind-hearted, you cane visit our Giant Wave Fish Gang, and maybe with a little money, you can have a nice time."

    That person pointed at Liu Siyu and said, ''Liu Siyu is pretty, many people are staring at her.'' The Giant Wave Fish Gang is happy about this because they can raise the prices and sell Liu Siyu for a good price.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Okay, let''s go see. But Taoist Friend, the Liu family and I have been neighbors for many years and they have always treated me well. Can I invite them for a meal?"

    "Please don''t make things difficult for me, Taoist Friend Lin."

    "Everyone, if you want to find out, you should know my character. I don''t like owing anyone any favors. They helped me a lot when I went fishing outside the city. It was kind of like a favor. Look at them, they won''t let me do anything bad."

    "Okay, thank you very much, Taoist Friend Lin."

    The person nodded and thought, since everyone is watching, and they can have a free meal, it''s not a bad deal.

    Lin Jiang nodded in gratitude, then took the spiritual talisman and led their group to a food stall. The Liu family had one table, and the Giant Wave Fish Gang had two tables.

    "Thank you very much, Taoist Friend Lin."

    Liu Hui didn''t know what to say for a moment. Even though he had many friends on the street, only Lin Jiang was willing to help in a small way.

    "Training is extremely difficult, as Taoist Friend Liu often says. I, Lin Yu, don''t have great abilities and I cannot save all of you. The best I can do is repay the favor of Taoist Friend Liu by offering you a meal."

    Lin Jiang spoke softly, but everyone nearby could hear. When the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang heard these words, they were moved. No one likes ungrateful people; they appreciate even small favors. After all, anyone can fall on hard times, and everyone hopes that someone will lend a hand when they are in need.

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45

    During the night in Yunzhong City, the number of people out and about decreased significantly. Although cultivators were not afraid of the dark, most of them followed the habits of ordinary people иC eating when it was time to eat and sleeping when it was time to sleep. Only a few ces remained brightly lit.

    Liu Hui cautiously took out a special stone and rented a room at the inn. The members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang rented rooms surrounding them, keeping watch all day.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I ran out of money. This is the only spirit stone I have left on me, so tonight, we have to make a decision."

    "Uncle, what should we do? Maybe we should fight them. If we can save one person, it''s better than nothing."

    Liu Dong spoke, his father Liu Jie had already died in battle at the hands of the Giant Wave Fish Gang. He was filled with hatred and wanted revenge.

    "Silly, what do you have to fight with?"

    "If we don''t fight, what can we do? We don''t have money, even if we don''t eat, drink, or sleep, we can only survive for ten days or half a month at most, and still end up dead."

    "So we have to make a decision, little sister, are you afraid of death?""No, brother."

    Liu Yuan said, the Liu family used to have more than thirty people, now only the four of them are left. She is no longer afraid of death, just like Liu Dong, and only wants revenge.

    "Alright, then the little sister and I will die together, while Siyu and Xiaodong will survive."

    "Ah, father, what about you..."

    "Shut up and listen to me. We are already at the mercy of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, there''s no point in fighting desperately. All I can do is to keep you alive. In the second half of the night, we will leave. The little sister and I will attack the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, while Siyu and Xiaodong should run immediately to Lin Yu''s ce."

    "Lin Yu, will he help us?"

    "Yes, he told me that."

    Liu Hui said, during a meal invitation from Lin Yu, Liu Hui and Lin Yu reached an agreement in a very secretive way that even members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang weren''t aware of.

    "Brother, is he really trustworthy?"

    "This was acquired through a trade. It''s a treasure map, not a very powerful treasure, but a distribution map of some spiritual medicines beneath the Yuntuo River. If you give it to him, he will let you both stay."

    Liu Hui took out a map and said, "The Trident Fish Gang controls a long section of the Yuntuo River. Beneath this river, there are spiritual veins, demonic beasts, minerals, and of course, spiritual medicines."

    One elder of the Liu family is an elder of the Trident Fish Gang. It is privately held by the Liu family, and only he, Liu Jie, and that elder knew about it. Now only he knows, and the spiritual medicines hidden below could be worth tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    Liu Yuan showed surprise but didn''t say anything. Even if they give this treasure map to the Giant Wave Fish Gang, they won''t survive, but if they give it to that Taoist Friend Lin, they might have a chance.

    "Uncle, I..."

    "No need to say more. You are thest remaining members of the Liu family. If you want to seek revenge for us, then strive to stay alive, cultivate, and improve your cultivation. If one day you can reach the Golden Core Period, then you can take action. If you can''t reach the Golden Core Period, then leave Yunzhong City and settle elsewhere."

    Liu Hui said that sacrificing himself and Liu Yuan to save Liu Siyu and Liu Dong was the only thing he could do, hoping that this n would work.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    In the middle of the night, Liu Hui and the other three left the inn. The members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang followed them, their task was to keep an eye on Liu Hui and hispanions until they couldn''t survive in Yunzhong City anymore and were killed when they left the city.

    Liu Hui remained unmoved, leading the four of them until they arrived at a brightly lit area. This area was where the restaurants, brothels, and gambling dens of Yunzhong City gathered. It was the entertainment district and nighttime was the busiest time. The security guards of Yunzhong City focused on this area at night because it was the most prone to trouble.

    "Kid,e here."

    Liu Hui pointed at the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang and shouted.

    "Old man, what do you want?"

    "Hehe, aren''t youing? With so many people here, let''s rush into one of the brothels. Do you dare to follow us in?"

    Liu Hui sneered. The Fish Gang was a force outside the city, but anyone who could run a brothel inside the city would definitely not be weak, maybe even stronger than the Fish Gang because Yunzhong City''s brothels were probably more profitable.

    "You, what do you want to do?"

    "Go."

    "Stop them."

    Liu Hui led the way towards a brothel, making the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang anxious. The brothel was their easiest escape route. Would Liu Hui dare to cause trouble once they went inside?

    "Kill."

    Just then, Liu Hui took action, as did Liu Yuan. They suddenly turned and attacked the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, while Liu Dong and Liu Siyu quickly ran ahead.

    "Ambushed, retreat quickly."

    The members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang were extremely terrified. They wanted to run, but there was nowhere to escape. Liu Hui''s flying sword was already approaching, and they were forced to defend themselves.

    "Daring to make a move in Yunzhong City, they''re asking for trouble."

    Not far away, a group of guards on horseback saw Liu Hui and the others fighting and became very angry. They quickly charged towards them, but Liu Hui remained unfazed and continued to attack.

    Seek revenge, doesn''t he want that? The Liu family lost dozens of family members and there was nowhere for his hatred to go.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Here."

    Lin Jiang saw Liu Siyu and Liu Dong, waved to them, and quickly hid inside the house.

    Once inside Lin Jiang''s house, they both sat down on the ground, panting heavily. Their bodies were drenched in sweat. But when they calmed down, they started crying again. They knew that Liu Hui and Liu Yuan were already dead.

    "Cry all you want. My house is protected by a soundproofing spell. No one can hear you crying next door."

    Lin Jiang said. He didn''t try tofort them because words were useless at this moment. He let them cry it out since no one could hear them anyway. It was safe.

    They cried for two or three hours and finally stopped. Liu Dong stood up, bowed to Lin Jiang, and said, "Thank you, Taoist Friend Lin, for saving our lives."

    "No need, I was just being kind-hearted."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He was truly kind-hearted for a moment. After speaking to Liu Hui, he regretted it. But now he could only grit his teeth and endure.

    And the reason he was kind-hearted was because he thought of Lin Die and Lin Ying. His heart couldn''t bear it.

    "Regardless, thank you Taoist Friend Lin. This is something my uncle promised Taoist Friend Lin."

    Liu Dong took out the map. He originally wanted to hide it privately. He wanted to save it forter. But in the end, he didn''t do so. At present, his priority was to save his own life.

    "Alright, here are three small rooms. You can choose for yourselves. Please don''t enter my room. I won''t care about the others. It''s best if you don''t go out either. Do you understand what I mean?"

    Lin Jiang said, most of the houses in Yunzhong City were simr to shared rental housing, where a small yard was divided into several rooms for workers to rent. It was rare for someone like Lin Jiang to live alone in a small yard.

    The next morning, Lin Jiang prepared to go out. As soon as he stepped outside, he saw the people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang.

    "What''s the matter?"

    "Can you confirm if the people from the Trident Fish Gang were taken in by you, my Taoist friend Lin?"

    "Do you have any evidence?"

    "No, but they definitely ran in this direction."

    "Why don''t youe into my house and search?"

    "I dare not."

    The person from the Giant Wave Fish Gang quickly said, even the guards from Yunzhong City wouldn''t dare search a cultivator''s house without higher approval. Many cultivators have their own secrets, daring to intrude like that would be a great feud. The power of the Giant Wave Fish Gang is not yet powerful enough to be so arrogant.

    "That''s settled then, I have to go set up my stall outside, please move aside."

    Lin Jiang didn''t hesitate and walked away, leaving a few people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang at a loss for what to do.

    For the next two weeks, Lin Jiang received the hospitality of Liu Hui''s family. The people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang kept a close eye on him all day, but it didn''t bother Lin Jiang. As long as Liu Siyu and the others didn''t leave the house, he wouldn''t have any problems.

    After two weeks, the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang retreated. This happened not only because Lin Jiang couldn''t find any evidence, but also because the Trident Fish Gang had be a thing of the past. Most of the remaining members of the Trident Fish Gang had already been wiped out. Even if a few escaped, they couldn''t change the overall situation. The focus of the Giant Wave Fish Gang shifted to how they could take over the territory of the Trident Fish Gang instead of chasing down the remaining enemies.

    "The Giant Wave Fish Gang has stopped chasing after you, but I still suggest that you don''t go out. The danger hasn''tpletely passed yet. Stay here, and you''ll have food and drinks. Use this time to practice and train yourself."

    Lin Jiang told Liu Siyu and Liu Dong, "It hasn''t been even a month since the Trident Fish Gang was destroyed. Escaping now would be unwise. It''s better to stay here for a little longer. I''ll take care of your meals, but not your training resources. It won''t cost much."

    The two of them didn''t have any objections, or rather, they didn''t have strong opinions. Even though they were not young anymore, they had always been protected by their family and hadn''t experienced much. They could only follow what Lin Jiang said.

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46

    "Sir, wee back."

    Inside Lin Jiang''s house, Liu Siyu greeted Lin Jiang as he stepped through the door, handing him a cup of tea.

    "Hmm."

    Lin Jiang nodded without any expression and entered the house. A table full of food was already prepared.

    These meals were made by Liu Siyu. Before, Lin Jiang rarely cooked and mostly bought food outside. But now there are two more people at home. If they buy food ording to the number of people, it might reveal a secret. So they decided to buy groceries and cook themselves.

    Liu Siyu felt bad about just eating and drinking without contributing, so she took on the responsibility of cooking. In fact, Liu Siyu preferred doing household chores over practicing her skills. She was good at cooking and used to cook for the whole family.

    "Where is Liu Dong?"

    "Still practicing."

    "Not eating?""Probably not."

    "Then let''s not bother him."

    Lin Jiang said that Liu Dong was full of hatred and entered a state of intense practice sinceing to Lin Jiang''s side. He would practice for more than 15 hours a day. Lin Jiang was worried that Liu Dong might lose control, but couldn''t persuade him. Lin Jiang decided to let him be as they were both adults and should take responsibility for their own actions.

    After finishing the meal, Lin Jiang yed with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. At first, Lin Jiang didn''t want to reveal this, but Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao weren''t happy. They couldn''t fly in the sky anymore, so they protested strongly about not being allowed to wander in the backyard.

    Lin Jiang thought in his heart that he had already done the thing of sheltering them, which offended the Giant Wave Fish Gang. He didn''t care about this matter anymore and continued to let them out, wandering in the yard every day.

    Liu Siyu and the two were extremely shocked to find that Lin Jiang actually had two second-tier beast pets. Second-tier beast pets must have the strength of the Building Foundation Period. Obviously, not just anyone can afford to raise them. It''s just that they are young and don''t know about He Yunwei''s affairs, otherwise they would definitely be able to think of something.

    After setting up a stall in the morning, Lin Jiang rarely went out. He spent most of his time practicing, drawing symbols, and studying secret arts. His daily life was very regr and fulfilling.

    That evening, as Lin Jiang finished drawing symbols and was getting ready to sleep, he suddenly heard some movement outside the door. Lin Jiang used his spiritual awareness to scan, and he knew it was Liu Siyu. He walked forward and opened the door.

    "Sir."

    Liu Siyu''s voice was as small as a mosquito, with her head lowered.

    "Is there something?"

    Lin Jiang said. "Sir" was a respectful term of address, which Liu Siyu came up with by herself. It seemed a bit strange to always call him "taoist friend."

    Liu Siyu hesitated, walked into Lin Jiang''s room, and then seemed to summon a lot of courage. She turned around, pulled at her waist, and her coat slipped off, revealing her snow-white skin.

    "Stop, what do you want to do?"

    Lin Jiang urgently called out, he quickly turned around to see if Liu Dong was there, because he suspected that the siblings wanted to y leapfrog.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Sir, please ept me."

    "Why do you say that?"

    "My parents have passed away, I have no home anymore, and I''m so alone. I want to serve you for the rest of my life."

    Liu Siyu spoke slowly, it had been half a year since the Trident Fish Gang was destroyed, and during this time, Liu Siyu had thought about many things.

    The destruction of the Trident Fish Gang was a fact, and her family''s ruin was also a fact. Seeking revenge, she actually didn''t have much courage. She was just a young woman, so she wanted to find someone to rely on.

    And this person, was Lin Jiang. After spending half a year with him, she knew that Lin Jiang was a very capable person. He could afford to raise two second-tier beast pets, which meant his abilities were definitely not low. He was much better than Liu Hui and the others who had judged Lin Jiang in the past.

    So she wanted to offer herself as a pillowpanion, to stay by Lin Jiang''s side. This way, Lin Jiang wouldn''t abandon them and could even support Liu Dong. In the past half year, Liu Dong had been practicing diligently, but due to theck of resources, the results were actually quite poor.

    She has been thinking about it for a long time, and has also hinted at Lin Jiang in her daily life, but Lin Jiang doesn''t know if he can''t understand or doesn''t ept, so she is going all out tonight.

    Lin Jiang looked at Liu Siyu and had to admit that Liu Siyu was very beautiful, definitely a stunning beauty, in her thirties but time seemed to have not left any traces on her face, still as amazing as when he first saw her, not sure if it''s because of her skincare routine or the Appearance Fixing Pill she took.

    For a beauty like her to make such a proactive move, if Lin Jiang didn''t feel a little moved, it would be purely boasting. But now he''s not in a wise man''s time.

    However, Lin Jiang was extremely calm at this moment. After taking Liu Siyu in, it was done with just closing the door, without even any hesitation. But what Lin Jiang thought about was that taking in Liu Siyu would mean having two more burdens, and Liu Dong''s desire for revenge was so strong. Sooner orter, he woulde after the Giant Wave Fish Gang. The Giant Wave Fish Gang was too powerful, and Lin Jiang was no match for them.

    Also, there was his secret, Lin Jiang didn''t even want to tell his own sister, Lin Ying, let alone someone else. On this point, Lin Jiang didn''t want to trust anyone.

    "Si Yu, you don''t have to be like this. Liu Hui and I have a mutual benefit."

    "But I have already fallen in love with you."

    "I''m not worthy of your love. I''m not a good man. You know I go to Spring Coming Tower several times every month."

    "Isn''t it normal for men to have multiple wives and mistresses?"

    Liu Siyu felt strange. Is it always true that men who visit Spring Coming Tower a few times a month are bad men? Then how should we consider those men who have multiple wives and concubines? Aren''t all men in this world like that, even her own father had several wives and concubines after her mother died.

    Lin Jiang was a bit speechless. He almost forgot about the traditions of this world. Going to Spring Coming Tower doesn''t mean someone is a bad man at all. There is simply no such saying.

    "Your father and I are friends, I am your elder, it is not appropriate."

    "Sir, what is the custom here?"

    "I..."

    Lin Jiang was a bit dumbfounded. Is it really this difficult to reject a woman?

    "Sir, if you feel disgusted by Siyu, I am actually still a virgin. My father..."

    "That''s not what I meant."

    "Then why did you refuse?"

    "I treated you like my niece, I didn''t have romantic feelings for you."

    Lin Jiang thought for a moment and came up with another excuse. He couldn''t mention anything about personal gain; that would be too hurtful and cause tension among everyone.

    "Sir, you..."

    "No need to say more, just rest well."

    Lin Jiang quickly interrupted her. "Stop talking, the more we talk, the moreplicated it gets," he said as he turned around to leave.

    "Where are you going, sir?"

    "I ate too much for dinner, I''m going out to digest the food."

    With ast remark, Lin Jiang quickly slipped away.

    An hourter, Lin Jiang arrived at Spring Coming Tower. Getting rid of indigestion was a lie, getting rid of his desire was true.

    "Come, tonight we will fight to the death, and don''t stop fighting even if lightly injured."

    Lin Jiang said to a woman who looked somewhat like Liu Siyu, "Tonight, if we don''t have a big battle, we won''t be able to resolve this."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    After that night, Liu Siyu didn''t give up on taking care of Lin Jiang. She firmly believed in a saying, "When a man pursues a woman, a mountain can''t separate them; when a woman pursues a man, ayer of veil can''t separate them."

    Lin Jiang didn''t agree. He felt that there were still concerns, so she needed to dispel them.

    So after that night, Liu Siyu quickly changed her mindset and took on the role of thedy of the house. Not to mention cooking and cleaning, she also actively took care of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and took care of Lin Jiang in every possible way.

    She also asionally showed off her impressive qualities. She couldn''t believe that with her figure and appearance, she couldn''t win over Lin Jiang.

    This made Lin Jiang feel overwhelmed. He was someone who responded better to gentleness than toughness. When others acted tough towards him, he would be even tougher. But faced with this abundance of tenderness, Lin Jiang had no choice but to frequently go to Spring Coming Tower. There was no other choice, the rising fire had to be extinguished.

    As a result, the storage bag couldn''t handle it anymore. More was going out thaning in.

    "Gentle Vige, Hero''s Tomb, I can''t stay in Gentle Vige, I have to run."

    When Lin Jiang thought about it, his first instinct was to run away. If Liu Siyu didn''t have all these messy things like the Giant Wave Fish Gang, he would definitely not be able to control himself. But with these things, it only made Lin Jiang even calmer.

    The most important thing is that he couldn''t be a true scumbag, leaving without a trace and running away with his pants pulled up. So Lin Jiang could only run away directly.

    Anyway, Lin Yu had been using this identity for many years. Even if it wasn''t for this thing, he would have abandoned this identity in a few years. So he might as well do it a little earlier this time.

    After waiting for another month, Liu Siyu didn''t wait for Lin Jiang toe home on this day. She was worried and wanted to go out to find him, but she found that she couldn''t open the magic barrier of the courtyard.

    Finally, she came to Lin Jiang''s room again. On the desk in the room, she saw a storage bag and a letter. Liu Siyu trembled all over, as if she remembered something. Then, she tremblingly picked up the letter and opened it.

    "Siyu, Liu Dong, I''m leaving. I have already left Yunzhong City. I won''te back again in this lifetime. I have my own path to follow, without the burdens of family. Don''t try to find me, and don''t miss me. Just consider me a passerby in your lives.

    I have already paid three years'' rent for this house. The kitchen has enough supplies for you to use for three months. The magic barrier in the house will disappear automatically after three months. You must take care of yourselves.

    Inside the storage bag, there are several spiritual talismans for your protection. There is also a book about my experience in drawing symbols, which I''m giving to Liu Dong. Liu Dong has gone mad with revenge, and I can''t relieve the obsession in his heart. So I''m leaving behind a cultivation technique called the "Overlord Scroll." It has great power, but the cost is also great. There are detailed descriptions in the book. After Siyu reads it, you can decide whether to give it to Liu Dong or not.

    - Lin Yu.

    "Sir."

    Liu Siyu eximed in surprise, her mind went nk. She couldn''t understand why she had turned into this, is she going to be that helpless person again?

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47

    "Taoist Friend Lin, this is your stall. For the next five years, this stall belongs to you. But if you don''t set up your stall for three consecutive months, we wille to visit you. If you are still not here, we will reim this stall and the money will not be refunded."

    The Yunzhong City staff responsible for managing the vendors at West City Market said to Lin Jiang. Now his name is Lin Yang, anyway there are many people with the surname Lin in Yunzhong City, he is not worried about being exposed.

    "Understood. Although I am new to Yunzhong City, I have already inquired with people."

    Lin Jiang said with a smile. He hadpletely abandoned his identity as Lin Yu, and the same went for Star Gathering Tower, all to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

    A newly rented house, a newly rented stall, Lin Jiang is ready to continue his old profession. In fact, besides drawing symbols, Lin Jiang doesn''t know how to do much else. He is good at cooking, but as a Qi Refining Period cultivator, he can''t handle high-end restaurants. If it''s about setting up a stall, then forget it, the prices are too low. Many things are calcted using spiritual beads, how much can be earned to make a spirit stone?

    After handing over to the management staff, Lin Jiang immediately took out a special amulet to sell, but there were no customers. Among the three major markets in Yunzhong City, West City Market is the smallest with only a few thousand stalls, so naturally there are also the fewest customers.

    However, Lin Jiang is not worried about business. His skill in making amulets may not be the best among cultivators of the same level, but he is definitely in the top ten. With a little more time, he will surely stand out.

    Now, Lin Jiang''s skill in making amulets is excellent. He can create over thirty types of high-quality amulets, and the sess rate of each one is above ny percent, almost one hundred percent sessful.

    When four hours pass, Lin Jiang closes his stall and leaves. He still has money in his storage bag, so he doesn''t urgently need to make a profit from selling the amulets.Back at home, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao rushed towards Lin Jiang, looking hungry and chirping, wanting to be fed. Lin Jiang took out some jerky and threw it to them.

    After advancing to the second level, the appetite of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao increased once again. They can''t be satisfied with anything less than fifty to sixty pounds of jerky every day, which makes Lin Jiang feel overwhelmed.

    It used to be most cost-effective to let them go hunting, but Lin Jiang is still worried about what happened with He Yunwei. The He family is still very prominent in Yunzhong City, and no one knows if they still remember that incident.

    So, the first thing Lin Jiang does in West City is to get food for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. He goes fishing at Yuntuo River, his old profession. Now he has three storage bags full of dried fish, totaling more than a hundred thousand pounds, enough to sustain Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao for a while.

    However, fishing is actually just a cover. Lin Jiang''s real goal is to go treasure hunting. When Lin Jiang saved Liu Siyu and Liu Dong, it wasn''t solely out of kindness, but also because Liu Hui mentioned the hidden treasures of the Liu family to them.

    After Lin Jiang left without saying goodbye, he also paid three years'' rent for Liu Siyu and them, plus other things, with a total value of about twelve or thirteen thousand spirit stones, so he couldn''t afford to make a loss.

    A few days ago, Lin Jiang used fishing as an excuse and, following the instructions on Liu Hui''s map, he really found a lot of spiritual herbs. These herbs were not grown by the Liu family themselves, but were wild ones they discovered. However, they didn''t hand them over to the Trident Fish Gang but kept them hidden, to be picked when needed.

    Liu Hui and the others had been doing this for decades, picking many spiritual herbs intermittently. However, they left behind even more, mainly because many of the herbs didn''t meet the required age and were picked prematurely, greatly reducing their value.

    Lin Jiang did the same. He picked over ten herbs, with a total value of no more than three thousand, but as long as the remaining herbs weren''t picked by others prematurely, breaking even would be a simple matter.

    "My biggest advantage is time. If I have a fixed residence and nt advanced spiritual herbs there, I could make a lot of money after a few hundred or thousand years. Unfortunately, the housing prices in Yunzhong City are too expensive."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He even thought about settling in the Yunzhong Mountain Range and building his own cave dwelling, so he could continue farming.

    After careful consideration, Lin Jiang rejected the idea. The Yunzhong Mountain Range is too dangerous. Independent cultivators flock there, and countless people die daily in territorial conflicts. It''s simply not sustainable. Going to the Yunzhong Mountain Range would easily expose his secret.

    "In the blink of an eye, I''ve been in Yunzhong City for almost fifty years. I really want to go out and explore."

    Sometimes, Lin Jiang also wants to go out and see the world. It''s so vast and wonderful, with so many stories andndscapes waiting for him to experience. Unfortunately, his strength is too low and the risks of going out are too great, so he can only give up.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Lin Yang"

    One day, Lin Jiang came to the stall again and a nearby old man greeted him.

    "Taoist Friend Xu, you''re here early."

    "Come early and make a deal. Would Lin Yang''s friend like a basket of dumplings?"

    The old man said to Lin Jiang. His stall sells dumplings, and it has been passed down for hundreds of years, a family tradition.

    "Okay, but no fish meat. I want monster meat, any kind of monster will do."

    "Then it''s the Golden Horned Bull. My family''s Golden Horned Bull meat dumplings are the most famous."

    "Sounds good."

    "Here, have some beef soup."

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend Xu."

    Lin Jiang expressed his gratitude, apanied by an old man named Xu Wei. He had a grandson with him, a young man in histe teens, who was only at the second level of Qi Refining cultivation. He was also helping with making dumplings.

    The Xu family could be considered indigenous to Yunzhong City. Their ancestors arrived in Yunzhong City over three hundred years ago and the family has been passed down for seven or eight generations. They were truly considered locals.

    The Xu family has never produced any prominent figures. For seven or eight generations, none of them have reached the Building Foundation Period in cultivation, only reaching the Qi Refining Period. However, the Xu family has an inspirational achievement. They were able to buy a house in Yunzhong City through the umtion of wealth from generation to generation.

    Lin Jiang knew just how expensive the housing prices were in Yunzhong City. Being able to aplish this was already quite remarkable. With a house, they were able to establish a firm footing in Yunzhong City, which was extremely advantageous for the development of their family.

    However, the Xu family had some bad luck. Xu Wei originally had a son who was extremely talented and had already joined the Zhonghang Sect for cultivation. However, a few years ago, he tragically died during a mission, abruptly interrupting the Xu family''s development.

    "The skin is thin but the filling is abundant. The taste is still as good as ever. Xu family has a century-old reputation, and it''s well-deserved."

    Lin Jiang took a bite of the dumpling and immediately praised Xu Wei. Xu family''s dumplings have a great reputation, and their business is booming. The taste is truly delicious.

    "Taoist Friend Lin likes it, that''s good."

    "After that, I will rely on you for breakfast."

    "Of course, I''ll save whatever vor Taoist Friend Lin likes for you."

    "No fish or vegetables, just meat. Please save twenty for me every morning from now on."

    Lin Jiang said. It hasn''t even been a year since the war between the Trident Fish Gang and the Giant Wave Fish Gang ended. He dared not eat the monster fish from the Yuntuo River, nor did he like eating vegetarian buns. Men are meat-eaters.

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend Lin, for taking care of this old man''s business."

    Xu Weiughed. This was a big customer. The vendors at the big market were independent cultivators and didn''t have much money. They wouldn''t spend so much money on buns.

    Their buns cost five spiritual beads each, so twenty buns would be one spirit stone. That''s thirty spirit stones in a month, and that''s quite a bit of money.

    Lin Jiang didn''t care about this. He didn''t even pay attention to the expenses of one spirit stone. Ever since he started using the Spirit Gathering Formation for cultivation, he became addicted to the abundant spiritual energy. He could no longer bear the days without the Spirit Gathering Formation. It''s hard to go from luxury to frugality, so he spends thirty spirit stones every day on the Spirit Gathering Formation.

    Now Lin Jiang''s daily expenses are nearly a hundred spirit stones. Even though his talisman-drawing ability has improved a lot, he still can''t bnce his ie and expenses. He relies solely on his savings.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, are you not eating?"

    Xu Wei was surprised to see that Lin Jiang stopped eating after having eight buns.

    "Put it back and eat. I''mzy, toozy to cook for myself."

    Lin Jiang happily said, Xu Wei''s bun is bigger than an adult man''s fist, two of them weigh more than a pound. Eating eight already seemed like a lot, but if he could digest them, he could eat dozens more. However, no one would do that. With that money, it''s better to eat a proper and delicious meal.

    The buns he left were for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, to improve their meals. These two are hundred-year-old friends, we can''t treat them poorly.

    "I see."

    Xu Wei said, he was worried that this big customer would leave. Eating like this could get tiresome in just three months. It seemed like he needed to spend more time studying the bun fillings.

    The Xu family has been in West City Market for many years, with many regr customers. Peoplee and go, somee to eat buns, some see Lin Jiang as a stranger and strike up a conversation.

    Lin Jiang''s social anxiety isn''t too serious, and he hopes to make a few friends. So he quickly met a group of new friends, all vendors in the market with decent cultivation at thete stage of Qi Refining.

    This is a matter of social circle. Lin Jiang has a cultivation level of nine levels of Qi Refining and is skilled in drawing symbols. Whether it''s the dating market or making friends, he is considered high quality. So those people quickly epted Lin Jiang. If Lin Jiang had a weaker cultivation level and wanted to blend into their circle, it would be impossible. They wouldn''t even bother with him.

    Among these friends, many have been in Yunzhong City for generations, almost like natives, but none of them have properties in Yunzhong City like the Xu family.

    Most cultivators are like this, they invest most of their ie into their practice. If their practice seeds, then it''s good. But if it fails, it''s all in vain. And when ites to practice, it''s not about how much you invest, it doesn''t guarantee how much you''ll gain. Many things end up in vain.

    "Sometimes I think that we cultivators are not as happy as ordinary people. Ordinary people spend their whole lives getting married, having children, enjoying their lives. But us, we run around for a little bit of resources and in the end, it''s all for nothing."

    "As Qi Refining cultivators, we are really not much different from ordinary people. The only difference is that our bodies are healthier, we don''t get sick. Getting old is morefortable. I regret entering the path of immortality."

    asionally, when chatting together, many people have started to doubt the identity of cultivators. What are they practicing for?

    Qi Refining cultivators are not much different from ordinary people. They don''t live past a hundred years, but their lives are much harder than ordinary people. This doesn''t refer to material things, but rather, it refers to their state of mind. Ordinary people don''t have as many pursuits, so they are actually happier.

    "Hope, that''s what cultivating is all about. Breaking through the Building Foundation Period, living a hundred years, and standing at a higher position to observe all living beings."

    Lin Jiang said, he often sighed about the ordinary cultivator''s life. Out of one hundred Qi Refining Period cultivators, maybe only one person can break through the Building Foundation Period. Most of them end up with no results, like water pouring into a bamboo basket.

    But in the end, is it not still hope? If people live just for basic necessities like eating, drinking, and sleeping, then it''s too boring. What''s the difference from being a salted fish?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang can live for countless years, but he doesn''t want his life to be limited to one city or a certain vige. He hopes to travel through the mountains and waters of the cultivation world, living freely where no one can threaten him. That''s his greatest motivation for cultivating.

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48

    System Name: Lifespan Check-in System

    Host: Lin Jiang

    Lifespan: 142/48553 years

    On the Yuntuo River, Lin Jiang is fishing and checking in. He still has over 40,000 years of lifespan remaining. It won''t be long before he breaks through to 50,000 years. Lin Jiang can''t imagine anyone in the cultivation world having a lifespan longer than him, not even the long-lived Yao tribe.

    "If I have the cultivation of the Soul Changing Period now, I could go anywhere, no matter how big the heavens or the earth."

    Lin Jiang sighed, realizing that his cultivation was his only weakness. He had been practicing for a hundred and thirty years, but he was only at the ninth level of Qi Refining. Compared to those talented cultivators, he was far behind. In the world of cultivation, there were plenty of cultivators who could reach his level in their thirties or forties.

    Just as he finished sighing, Lin Jiang felt a huge force on the fishing rod in his hand. He was delighted that he had caught another big fish and began reeling it in.

    The demon fish in Yuntuo River varied greatly in size. Some demon fish weighed only thirty to fifty pounds but had a high level of cultivation and were extremely fierce. Others weighed thousands of pounds but were just strong without much aggression. They had gentle personalities and became food for other demon fish.

    An hourter, Lin Jiang pulled up a demon fish weighing over a thousand pounds. After performing some physical rituals on it, he ced it in his storage bag."It can''t fit anymore. What a pity."

    Lin Jiang nced at his storage bag and saw that there was very little space left. He couldn''t fit another fish, so he threw all the remaining fish bait into the Yuntuo River and packed up to go home.

    On his way home, he bought hundreds of pounds of firewood and started roasting the fish meat as soon as he arrived. He cut open the big fish and ced the pieces on a rack for roasting. In Lin Jiang''s yard, he also hung several dozen lines, all filled with drying fish.

    "Chirp chirp."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao kept shouting on the side, as if they were protesting. They have been eating fish for many years, and I guess they are getting tired of it.

    "Don''t be picky, okay? You have such big appetites. If I don''t give you fish to eat, I really can''t afford to raise you. Do you know how much monster meat costs per pound?"

    Lin Jiangined that one Shadiao needs to eat seventy to eighty pounds of dried meat every day, and it has to be eaten every day. It''s a huge expense.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang still has two-thirds of the Demon Core in his hand, but he dares not feed them anymore. He''s afraid that Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao will advance again. If they reach the middle stage of the second rank, their appetite will increase again. Lin Jiang might really be bankrupted by them.

    "Chirp chirp."

    "Alright, alright. From now on, take turns eating. One day eat something else, and one day eat dried fish. Is that okay?"

    Seeing Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao still protesting, Lin Jiangpromised and agreed to increase the variety of their food. They will switch between fresh fish and dried fish in the future.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao thought it was very practical.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Xu"

    Lin Jiang went to the big market again, and his friend Xu Wei was busy on the side. Lin Jiang greeted him, and Xu Wei quickly brought a te of steamed buns.

    "Try the steamed buns I just made. They have a different filling."

    "Mmm, they taste good, with the vor of Colorful Demon Chicken."

    "Friend Lin, who is a skilled Taoist, helped me buy this Colorful Demon Chicken. It''s my first time making it."

    "Colorful Demon Chicken is famous in Yunzhong City and has a hint of phoenix bloodline. It''s impressive that Friend Xu was able to get it."

    Lin Jiang continued, "Of course, the so-called phoenix bloodline is just a gimmick. The real phoenix bloodline in the Colorful Demon Chicken might be very far away. Otherwise, it would be a well-known powerful monster, not something you can buy during the Qi Refining Period."

    "It''s interesting to note that the Wu family from Sanjiang Town outside the city raised hundreds of Colorful Demon Chickens, but they all died for some reason. They sold them cheaply, and even the restaurants didn''t want them. I got them all at a low price."

    "That''s how it is."

    When Lin Jiang heard that, the steamed bun in his mouth suddenly didn''t taste good anymore. It was so disappointing that they used this kind of filling. How can he eat it?

    "Why isn''t Taoist Friend Lin eating?"

    "I''m not really hungry. Just pack up the steamed buns. There aren''t many Colorful Demon Chicken left, let other taoist friends have a taste. Just give me the ones I had before."

    Lin Jiang smiled faintly. What a joke! He''s afraid of getting food poisoning. He still has a few leftovers on his te that he needs to take back to feed Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Since Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are second-level monsters, they shouldn''t be afraid of getting poisoned.

    Lin Jiang noticed that there was a woman helping Xu Wei at his stall. He was curious, so he asked a person at a nearby stall. The personughed and said, "Taoist Friend Lin, you should take a look. Things are going to get lively at Taoist Friend Xu''s house."

    "What do you mean by lively?"

    "They''re fighting over the family inheritance. Taoist Friend Xu has a son and a daughter. His son and daughter-inw have passed away, leaving only one grandson. But his grandson, Five Spiritual Roots, has low cultivation levels. His daughter married another independent cultivator and has several sons. One of them has good talent and is already an outer disciple of the Zhonghang Sect. Their family wants to support this son to reach the Building Foundation Period, but how can they do that without money? Taoist Friend Xu doesn''t have much time left, hehe."

    "Is it really that exciting? Don''t the other members of the Xu family have any objections?"

    Lin Jiang smiled. This kind of family gossip was very interesting. He enjoyed listening to it.

    "The other members of the Xu family have already split up, and Taoist Friend Xu is the only one left in this generation. But who knows, Taoist Friend Xu''s house has been umted by several generations. It will be interesting to see what happens. With a house worth hundreds of thousands of spirit stones, many people will surelye forward."

    "Money and wealth can move people''s hearts, especially when it''s worth hundreds of thousands of spirit stones. Now we can really enjoy the show."

    "Yes, let''s just wait and enjoy the show."

    Lin Jiang and the others were all looking forward to the show. Lin Jiang wasn''t afraid of being called vulgar, he was just an ordinary person, a very down-to-earth one.

    Lin Jiang nced at Xu Wei''s daughter, who seemed to be in her thirties and only at the fourth level of Qi Refining. She was efficient in her work and had a very bold personality.

    She was bossing around Xu Wei''s stand, not to mention his grandson, even Xu Wei himself would bemanded by her. It was as if she was the owner of the stand.

    Lin Jiang shook his head and went to sell his spiritual talismans on his own. Once the time was up, he left. He couldn''t afford to dy his own matters just to watch a show.

    However, Lin Jiang missed another good show. When he came back the next day, he found that Xu Wei hadn''t set up his stand. The people around told Lin Jiang that he missed a great show yesterday.

    "They started fighting, right on the first day."

    "Why are they fighting? Who is fighting with who?"

    "Xu Wei''s daughter, Xu Jiaojiao, first had a fight with Xu Wei''s grandson, Xu Dongyang. The reason was thatst night after closing, Xu Jiaojiao wanted to take some money but Xu Dongyang wouldn''t let her. They started arguing and it escted into a fight. Xu Wei tried to intervene but got identally hurt."

    "Xu Wei is at the seventh level of Qi Refining, so how could he get hurt by ident?"

    "Taoist Friend Lin, cultivation level doesn''t make someone invincible. Xu Wei has been running his stall here for decades. He may have cultivation, but hecksbat skills. I don''t think he has ever fought with anyone, even someone at the fourth level of Qi Refining could beat him."

    "That''s true, but what about the guards? Don''t they intervene?"

    Lin Jiang nodded. "At the lower stage of Qi Refining, there''s not much difference from an ordinary person. Xu Wei has probably never left the city in his whole life and never been in a fight. His cultivation is just a result of umted time. It''s normal for him to have strength butck fighting skills."

    "Who cares about the guards? They don''t interfere in personal matters. They are just like us, enjoying the show. As long as no one dies, they won''t bother."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, let me tell you how they argued yesterday. First, Xu Jiaojiao said..."

    And then some busybodies started imitating their fight from yesterday. Yesterday, when Xu Wei was preparing to close his stall and count his earnings, Xu Jiaojiao insisted on taking half of the spirit stones. Her reason was that she had been busy the whole day as well.

    Xu Dongyang was not happy. She didn''t want anyone to help her, she came by herself. And in the middle, Xu Jiaojiao took away dozens of steamed buns to take home for her son and those people to eat.

    Xu Jiaojiao immediately became unhappy and scolded Xu Dongyang for being ungrateful. Then she started talking about the past, how good she was to Xu Dongyang when she was young, that Xu Dongyang''s parents had died, and it was her family who came to help with the funeral.

    Xu Dongyang was no match for Xu Jiaojiao, so she didn''t care much. She only believed in one thing, which was not to give money. Xu Wei tried to mediate but was helpless, and he watched angrily as Xu Jiaojiao attacked.

    Xu Dongyang wasn''t a match in an argument, and she wasn''t a match in a fight either. She was held down and beaten. Xu Wei tried to intervene, but Xu Jiaojiao pped him away. The fight ended and Xu Wei was taken back to recover from his injuries.

    Two dayster, Xu Wei returned to his stall. However, the drama within the Xu family was far from over. It had only just begun. Xu Jiaojiao came with her husband and son, saying that Xu Wei''s business was good and he was too busy. They came to help.

    They weren''t just causing trouble, they were actually helping. But they also wanted money. Xu Jiaojiao confidently told Xu Wei that Xu Dongyang was young, had low skills, and poor talents. If Xu Wei died, Xu Dongyang wouldn''t be able to maintain the family business. She could help, guaranteeing that Xu Dongyang would not have to worry about food and clothing in the future.

    But Xu Dongyang refused. The house and the stall were her livelihood for the future. However, he couldn''t win even in a fight, and he became increasingly anxious.

    In the end, Xu Dongyang gritted his teeth and brought Xu family rtives. Xu Wei and several cousins were among them. The Xu family also had a considerable number of people. They brought a bunch of rtives, instantly equalizing the situation against Xu Jiaojiao.

    With so many people, the security team had to intervene. They warned them several times not to fight, or else they would be expelled from Yunzhong City. So, in the following days, it wasmon to see the two groups of people arguing near Xu Wei''s stall.

    The direct result was that Xu Wei''s business plummeted, going from the most popr stall at West City Market to beingpletely ignored. This process only took a month, causing many people to feel regretful.

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49

    For several consecutive months, Xu Wei''s family drama continued. Their business had already plummeted, to the point where Xu Wei simply decided to lease out the stall and give up on the business altogether. The business that had been passed down for hundreds of years was gone just like that, making many people feel nostalgic.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Especially for those cultivators who grew up in West City, Xu Wei''s buns were definitely part of their childhood memories. Many people, when they grew up, woulde back to buy one and have a taste. But whether they would still have the chance in the future was uncertain.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang often heard gossip about Xu Wei''s family, since the market stall vendors and the Xu family were neighbors. Their household was so noisy that it was impossible not to know about it.

    After some time had passed, Lin Jiang happened to see Xu Wei drinking at a market stall. Xu Wei''s appearance shocked Lin Jiang. How long had it been? Xu Wei had aged significantly, looking like an old man in his seventies or eighties.

    Although Xu Wei was indeed that age, he had taken Appearance Fixing Pills, so he appeared to be around fifty on the surface.

    "Taoist Friend Linг┐"

    "Friend Xu, what are you doing here?"

    "Feeling annoyed, want toe out for a drink and sit down to have a ss?""Okay."

    Lin Jiang nced at the stall, but ultimately didn''t mind. This was the lowest-level Ling Feast in Yunzhong City, cooked with the leftovers of some demon beasts or scraps. Even their spiritual wine was of extremely poor quality, probably mixed with three times as much ordinary wine.

    The only characteristic of these vendors was that they were cheap. Basically, you could eat and drink a lot with just one spirit stone. The customers were mostly in the Qi Refining Period, the lowest level in Yunzhong City.

    Lin Jiang had never eaten at this kind of stall before, and Xu Wei probably rarely did either. He had quite a fortune, not only the house he owned, but also his business, which was booming every day with a decent ie.

    After Lin Jiang sat down, he really couldn''t get used to the spiritual wine here. He called the boss to help him run an errand and fetch a jar of slightly better spiritual wine.

    "It''s extravagant, extravagant. Many thanks to Taoist Friend Lin."

    "We''ve been neighbors for over a year, and I haven''t invited you to drink before. Today, it''s on me."

    Lin Jiang said with a big smile, not minding at all. He didn''t have deep rtionships with the vendors at the market, only reaching the level of ordinary friends. He hardly ever went out to eat or drink with them.

    "Okay, okay..."

    Xu Wei had already drunk a lot before, and unless a Qi Refining Period cultivator deliberately used spiritual power to dissolve the alcohol, they would still get drunk. Xu Wei was feeling a bit tipsy.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, are you all making fun of my family?"

    "No, Taoist Friend Xu misunderstood. Every family has their own difficulties, it''s amon human sentiment."

    "Yes, every family has their own difficulties, but why is it like this in my family?"

    "Taoist Friend Xu, don''t overthink it."

    "I, sob sob..."

    Xu Wei started crying directly, making Lin Jiang feel awkward. Lin Jiang regretted sitting down.

    Xu Wei didn''t just cry, he was crying while talking about the current situation. His daughter Xu Jiaojiao was waiting for him to die so she could fight for the family property.

    This made him very sad. He loved his daughter very much. Before she got married, he didn''t let her do anything. When she got married, he gave her a very generous dowry. Without this dowry, how could she be so strong-willed in her husband''s family?

    But Xu Wei still didn''t dare to drive away Xu Jiaojiao. Firstly, because she was his own daughter. Secondly, he also knew that some of his cousins were plotting against his house. This house was the savings of several generations, and also had the efforts of their rtives and ancestors. It''s hard to exin.

    If he drove away Xu Jiaojiao, then Xu Dongyang would be left all alone. Xu Dongyang was young, had low cultivation, and poor aptitude. His future would be like that, definitely not a match for the Xu family rtives.

    Xu Wei''s initial idea was to have Xu Jiaojiao and Xu Dongyang join forces to bnce those Xu family rtives. But he didn''t expect to underestimate his daughter''s greed. Xu Jiaojiao''s son joined the Zhonghang Sect and had the opportunity to break through the Building Foundation Period. Their family was willing to pay any price to support this son, even if it meant sacrificing the father-daughter rtionship.

    Lin Jiang sighed after listening. Maybe this is real life, everyone has their own interests, everyone has their own choices. In the face of interests, family affection doesn''t seem so reliable.

    Lin Jiang also thought of the Lin family. The Lin family was very united under Lin Batian'' leadership. The first generation patriarch was like the founding emperor, with very high prestige. But it wasn''t the same after that. Who knows how much longer Lin Batian can live? After he dies, will the Lin family also have such struggles, ultimately leading to the copse of the n?

    "Grandfather"

    They didn''t know how long they had been drinking, until it waspletely dark. Then, Xu Dongyang appeared and silently paid his respects to Lin Jiang before helping thepletely drunk Xu Wei leave.

    Lin Jiang actually had a good impression of Xu Dongyang. This child was quiet, but notzy. He was hardworking and had a sharp mind. The only problem was his low cultivation aptitude. In the cultivation world, having no cultivation was a very scary thing, especially since he might inherit arge fortune.

    Lin Jiang didn''t n to help him. It''s difficult for an upright official to get involved in family matters, especially considering it was him. If he helped, others would probably think that Lin Jiang was also trying to get a share of the property, which would only cause trouble for himself.

    Since Xu Wei had left, Lin Jiang naturally didn''t want to drink anymore. He wasn''t a fan of alcohol to begin with. This time, he just met Xu Wei and wanted to hear some gossip.

    "I am just a passerby in this world."

    "Who is right or wrong has nothing to do with me."

    "The world is filled with troubles; getting involved brings nothing but trouble."

    Lin Jiang took out a special stone to pay for his bill, then stood up and headed home. He reminded himself not to get involved in other people''s affairs or personal rtionships, but to enjoy some gossip as a way to add some spice to his life and rx.

    However, he absolutely should not get caught up in it to avoid unnecessary troubles. Staying low-key and minding his own business was the best way to go.

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50

    The tragedy of Xu Wei''s family ethics officially unfolded six monthster, after Xu Wei''s death. He died of mncholy. He was already old and didn''t have much time left. Because of the chaotic things happening in his family, he often drowned his sorrows in alcohol. Coupled with his mncholy, he passed away in his eighties.

    After Xu Wei''s death, the battle for inheritance immediately began. It wasn''t just Xu Jiaojiao who came forward, but also Xu Wei''s rtives. They all descended from the same ancestor and had worked hard to save money to buy a house. They all imed a share of that house, causing a lot of gossip in West City. Even if Lin Jiang didn''t actively pay attention, he often heard stories about the Xu family.

    "It''s chaos, everything is chaotic! People from Zhonghang Sect havee forward. Xu Dongyang''s father''s former fellow disciples showed up with a bunch of IOUs, iming that Xu Dongyang''s father owed them spirit stones. The total amount owed is around seventy-eight thousand spirit stones. They want the Xu family to repay the debt."

    "The person has been dead for over ten years, and now they suddenly show up?"

    "He said he was traveling and on a mission. He just came back."

    "Really, all kinds of monsters and demons havee out."

    Lin Jiang was shocked to hear that even disciples from the outer sect of Zhonghang Sect were getting involved. How could someone who had been dead for over ten years write IOUs? Were the outer sect disciples of Zhonghang Sect really so rich that they could casually lend out seventy-eight thousand spirit stones?

    Even if Lin Jiang used hismon sense, he knew that this was a set-up. They were plotting to take the Xu family''s house.

    As things unfolded, Xu family initially refused to ept those IOUs. However, the people from Zhonghang Sect applied for authentication. There were specialized appraisers who examined the authenticity, and the results proved that they were genuine. Not only were the handwriting authentic, but also the soul imprint on the IOUs.Everything was real, and the Xu family had no choice but to repay the debt. However, Xu family only had limited funds, and most of their assets were tied up in the house. They had no option but to sell the house.

    Moreover, knowing about the situation of the Xu family, the buyers also tried to lower the price, selling it for nearly 20% less than the usual market price. After paying off debts, there was not much left, and it only amounted to around ten to twenty thousand spirit stones for Xu Dongyang.

    "Xu Dongyang is in danger. How can someone at the second level of Qi Refining carry tens of thousands of spirit stones? Isn''t he just asking for trouble?"

    Many people asserted that Xu Dongyang was definitely doomed. It''s extremely dangerous to bring gold to the market like a child.

    After selling the house, Lin Jiang saw Xu Dongyang a few more times, but there was no news of him after that. Nobody knew if he had left the city to make a living or if he had died.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    "Sir, would you like to buy some charms?"

    On that day, a female cultivator at the Building Foundation Period stood in front of Lin Jiang''s stall, staring at him for a long time. Lin Jiang spoke up and asked.

    "I feel like I''ve seen you before. You look very familiar."

    "Is it someone who resembles a person from your past?"

    "Yes, a former neighbor, just like you, also sells magical charms."

    "That''s lucky then, senior. How about you be my acquaintance and take care of my business?"

    Lin Jiang smiled and said, he also felt that the person in front of him seemed familiar, but couldn''t remember immediately.

    "What is your name?"

    "Lin Yang"

    "Oh. How old are you?"

    "Um..."

    "Just tell me, I''ll buy all your special charms."

    "Alright, I am thirty-three years old this year."

    Lin Jiang immediately answered. This was his third yearing to the West City Market. When he first came, he imed to be thirty years old. This time, he didn''t tell others about his Spiritual Root. They thought he was a talented independent cultivator. It''s rare for someone at the ninth level of Qi Refining to be thirty years old, but it''s not unheard of, so it''s not that surprising.

    "Thirty-three, can''t fit it."

    "Maybe I am like an old friend of you, I have amon face, someone even said that I look like his rtive a few days ago."

    "Hmm"

    "Senior, please buy a talisman."

    The person nodded and was about to leave when Lin Jiang shouted, "Scammer! You promised to buy all my spiritual talismans."

    "Keep this talisman to y with yourself."

    The person casually threw a spirit stone and left with a stylish remark.

    "Who is this person? Can''t keep their word, still at the Building Foundation Period."

    Lin Jiang murmured to himself, forget it, they''re powerful, I can''t beat them, I don''t dare to make trouble.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, it would be enough with just one spirit stone, they''re in the Building Foundation Period, they''re just teasing you, there''s nothing you can do."

    "Yeah, didn''t you just get a spirit stone for free?"

    The surrounding vendors all advised, we can''t provoke someone in the Building Foundation Period, it would be good enough if they gave a spirit stone.

    Naturally, Lin Jiang wouldn''t really do anything, he just pretended to be someone else. This person looked very familiar, Lin Jiang suspected he had met an old acquaintance and was afraid of being recognized, that''s why he acted this way. Besides, his spiritual talisman was easy to sell, so he didn''t really need to chase after someone to buy it.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Seeing that it was almost time, Lin Jiang closed his stall and went back home. Coincidentally, at his doorstep, he encountered the person from earlier. They locked eyes and something seemed off about the other person.

    "Are you following me?"

    "Senior, you''re joking. I live right here, wouldn''t you like to see?"

    Worried that the other person might misunderstand, Lin Jiang quickly cast a spell and opened the formation of his residence. Lin Jiang clearly saw the other person rx their guard.

    "Have you stayed in South City before?"

    "I''ve only been there a few times, never for a long stay."

    "Why don''t you go to South City? The big market in South City is thergest in Yunzhong City."

    "It''s too far and inconvenient to go back and forth. It''s also expensive to live there."

    Lin Jiang immediately replied, "I''ve said this many times before. Someone asked me before, and it''s true that the big market in South City is the biggest, with the most independent cultivator vendors. But the rent is also the most expensive. West City is rtively cheaper."

    The other person fell silent all of a sudden and didn''t say anything. Lin Jiang thought this person''s personality was strange and didn''t n to interact with her. She immediately went into the house.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao rushed over again. This had be their ritual to wee Lin Jiang, of course, their purpose was to beg for food.

    "Please don''t bump into me anymore. You''re second-level demonic beasts. If my body is a little weaker, you could bump me to death, and then you would starve. Do you understand?"

    Lin Jiang took out some fish jerky and fed it to them. They swallowed chunks of fish jerky weighing two to three pounds in one bite, without chewing. After eating, they still wanted more.

    "I gave it all to you, finish eating and we''ll go fishing outside the city tomorrow."

    Lin Jiang took out all the dried fish from the storage bag to feed them. They had a big appetite, together they needed about 200 pounds of meat each day. Every month or two, Lin Jiang had to go outside the city to get more fish, and he had toe back with a full load, otherwise he would have to spend money to buy it.

    "Every year our expenses are higher than our ie, we only have a little over 40,000 spirit stones left in storage."

    Lin Jiang looked inside the storage bag. These past few years, he spent more than he earned, thousands of spirit stones. His savings kept decreasing.

    "I need to find an opportunity to go to the ck market outside the city and sell the spoils in the storage bag."

    Lin Jiang looked at the spoils in the storage bag, thinking about selling them. Ever since Mo Lin, Lin Jiang had killed many cultivators. He hadn''t touched anything on them except for the unmarked spirit stones, afraid of revealing the secret. But now he didn''t have much money left, so he could only find an opportunity to sell them.

    The next day, after selling a few spiritual talismans, Lin Jiang went straight to the outskirts of the city. His cultivation had reached a higher level, so he had been going outside the city more often, and he felt a certain level of safety.

    All the previous fishing spots were taken, but Lin Jiang wasn''t bothered. He found other fishing spots. There weren''t many people fishing, mainly relying on this to make a living. The fishermen were all usings.

    The area where Lin Jiang was located now belonged to the Giant Wave Fish Gang. After they absorbed the Trident Fish Gang, they became the most powerful fish gang near Yunzhong City. But they didn''t continue expanding, and it''s unknown if it was because the sect behind them didn''t allow it.

    The fishing resources in Yuntuo River are very abundant. Over hundreds to thousands of years, who knows how many monster fish have been caught, but there are still countless monster fish.

    "It''s a big fish!"

    In the afternoon, Lin Jiang saw a fishing boat passing in front of him. The fishing boat was towing a fish behind it, which was even bigger than the fishing boat itself, weighing at least five to six thousand pounds.

    "This is a second-level Fangtooth Fish, the fiercest monster fish in Yuntuo River. It seems to be of superior second-level quality. I heard that the Giant Wave Fish Gang has been eyeing it for half a month, and they finally managed to kill it."

    A fishing friend exined nearby, and many people were discussing the fish. This monster fish has been in Yuntuo River for many years and has capsized several boats. It has been on the wanted list of Yunzhong City. Finally, it has been killed.

    It is like this in Yuntuo River - they allow the existence of monster fish, but not powerful monster fish. Once a fish bes powerful, it will be surrounded and attacked by the cultivation world. If it can''t handle the Qi Refining Period, it will be challenged by the Building Foundation Period. If the Building Foundation Period can''t handle it, there are still plenty of experts in Yunzhong City, such as the Golden Core Period and the Nascent Soul stage.

    When it was almost dark, Lin Jiang didn''t catch much. So he decided to buy the fish from other anglers. After that, Lin Jiang left the river and went to a vige called Sanjiang Estuary.

    Outside Yunzhong City, there are many cultivation viges controlled by different forces. These cultivation viges engage in various livelihoods, including the ck market.

    There are many ck markets outside the city, and the ck market in Sanjiang Estuary is thergest and most reputable one. For safety reasons, Lin Jiang naturally chose the Sanjiang Estuary ck market.

    When Lin Jiang arrived, the Sanjiang Estuary had just closed its doors. Most viges outside the city had curfews. Once it got dark, the gates would be closed and the formations activated.

    The ck market in Sanjiang Estuary was almost an open secret, and even though Lin Jiang was only staying at an inn, he managed to get the exact information and then went to the ck market.

    In the story, Sanjiang Estuary''s ck market is not much different from the fake ck market in the city. Lin Jiang spent ten spirit stones to buy a cloak and entered the ck market.

    Outside the city, there is a market where people do all kinds of forbidden things. In Yunzhong City, there are many things that are not allowed, but in this market, anything goes. Lin Jiang found some things there that felt really strange and disturbing. He decided not to get involved with those things and nned to just sell what he had and leave.

    Two hourster, Lin Jiang finished cleaning up all the things and getting ready to leave the ck market and go back to sleep. But just as he reached the entrance, he suddenly heard a loud sound, followed by a dead body falling in front of Lin Jiang.

    At that moment, Lin Jiang was dumbfounded.

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51

    Everyone said the ck market outside the city is very dangerous, but Lin Jiang didn''t believe it before.

    But now Lin Jiang believes it, and he doesn''t know if it''s toote.

    The moment he saw the corpse, Lin Jiang took a big step back, and then the guards of the ck market appeared.

    "Uncle Tao, it''s Uncle Tao."

    "Who killed Uncle Tao?"

    "It''s you."

    A group of people saw Lin Jiang and immediately surrounded him.

    "Friend, you may be very sad right now, but please don''t use me without evidence. How can someone at my level of cultivation, in the Qi Refining Period, kill your esteemed sect''s Building Foundation Period Martial Uncle?"

    "Qi Refining Periodг┐"In an instant, more than ten divine consciousnesses locked onto Lin Jiang, confirming that he was indeed in the Qi Refining Period. The group of people became puzzled.

    "Boom!"

    Just at that moment, a loud noise came from the ck market, followed by the sound of battle.

    "The murderer is here. Pursue and apprehend!"

    A deep voice sounded, and the faces of the surrounding guards changed dramatically. They quickly rushed towards the depths of the ck market.

    This disturbance was very significant. People had already started to run out. Lin Jiang also followed suit. Some wanted to dash out of Sanjiang Estuary, but at that moment, the formation was tightly closed, not allowing anyone to leave, lest the murderer escape as well.

    Lin Jiang had anticipated this oue early on, so he went straight back to the inn. By now, the inn was also on high alert, and everyone entering or leaving had to confirm their identities.

    None of the guests who returned from the ck market went back to their rooms. Instead, they gathered in the lobby of the inn, discussing the events that had just happened. There were various opinions and discussions.

    Someone said it was a troublemaker sent by apetitor, while others said it was an enemy seeking revenge, and some even said it was a hired assassin from an assassin organization.

    Amidst the various discussions, more and more people returned to the inn. Lin Jiang looked up and was surprised to see their neighbor here too.

    She also saw Lin Jiang, but didn''t say much. She went straight upstairs. Many people were going upstairs at this time, and Lin Jiang followed suit.

    Coincidentally, they met again. Lin Jiang couldn''t help but whisper to her, "Run quickly! The people at the inn are going to report you."

    Upon hearing Lin Jiang''s whisper, she suddenly stopped and turned around, staring coldly at Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang pointed at her sleeve. "Silly girl, your sleeve is still stained with blood. It was seen long ago. Haven''t you seen the inn staff sneaking away?"

    "Boom!"

    In the next moment, the neighbor suddenly soared into the sky, smashing through the roof of the inn, rming arge group of people.

    Lin Jiang almost burst out cursing. "I kindly tried to help you, and you go and break the roof. How are we going to sleep tonight?"

    "Where are they? Where are they?"

    The innkeeper brought a few people with him. They were all guards from Sanjiang Estuary.

    "Excuse me, where is everyone?"

    "Just look at the roof and you''ll see, innkeeper. How am I supposed to sleep tonight?"

    Lin Jiang pointed at the roof and then at his room. Half of the roof was gone. How can I sleep at all tonight?

    "Please don''t bother me, taoist friend. Just give me another room."

    The innkeeper said, as sounds of fighting could be heard outside the inn. Everyone inside the inn felt as if they were facing a great enemy. No one would be able to sleep peacefully tonight.

    Lin Jiang felt the same way, even if he changed rooms. Who would dare to sleep soundly? No one knew what was happening outside. If trouble knocked at the door, no one would survive.

    They endured the night like this. Early the next morning, many cultivators fled Sanjiang Estuary. No one could stop them. Sanjiang Estuary had no choice but to let them go. They still had to do business in the future and couldn''t afford to offend people too much.

    As Lin Jiang and his group returned to Yunzhong City, news of the attack on Sanjiang Estuary spread. By the afternoon, Lin Jiang learned some details about the previous night.

    Last night, Sanjiang Estuary was attacked by a group of assassins called Dark Night. This assassin group was formed only in the past two hundred years and has done many cases before, but most of them were against individuals, especially independent cultivators, so they were not very famous.

    Last night was their moment of fame. They didn''t just kill the dead person Lin Jiang saw in Sanjiang Estuary, they assassinated a total of five people иC one at the golden core stage and four at the building foundation period. Afterwards, they were discovered by the people at Sanjiang Estuary and fought for over two hours before sessfully escaping.

    Sanjiang Estuary is one of the most powerful towns outside the city. After the events ofst night, it has been greatly weakened and suffered significant damages, causing a huge impact.

    Even Yunzhong City has been rmed now. The Dark Night Organization has been listed as a must-kill bounty on the wanted list, with over thirty exposed assassins, ranging from Qi Refining, Building Foundation, to Golden Core stages.

    "This is just my luck! I rarely leave the city, and the one time I do, I encounter such trouble. I won''t go out anymore in the future."

    After returning to Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang was subjected to questioning, which made him very angry. His luck seemed to be off, so he decided to stay low in the city for now. Survival is the top priority.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Wait a moment."

    On this day, when Lin Jiang came back from therge market, he heard a deep voice at the door. He turned around and saw that his neighbor had returned.

    "Do you have something to tell me?"

    "Thank you for everything that day."

    "No need, we are neighbors."

    Lin Jiang tried to smile. Being neighbors wasn''t important, what mattered was that she had the ability to build foundations. Lin Jiang thought it would be better to know a few friends who could build foundations, to expand his circle of friends.

    "I don''t owe you anything, what do you want?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "Techniques, secrets, medicine, valuable stones. Just name it."

    "Is it necessary to be so distant? You owe me a favor, can''t I ask for your help in the future?"

    "That can work too. Take this talisman with you. If you need me to do something, activate the talisman and I wille to your house. Then I can help you with something not too extreme, like perhaps taking care of someone."

    "Thank you very much."

    Lin Jiang took the magical charm. It was a special kind of charm that could assist him. He also knew how to draw it.

    "Oh, I don''t even know your name yet."

    After the neighbor gave Lin Jiang the magical charm, they turned around to leave. Lin Jiang quickly spoke up.

    The neighbor paused and then said, "My name is Zhang Ruifang."

    When Lin Jiang heard this name, he was amazed. Finally, he remembered. Zhang Ruifang was Zhang Ruifeng''s sister, the talkative one.

    Lin Jiang tried hard to recall the details of his interactions with Zhang Ruifang, but he realized that they didn''t have much history together. Despite being neighbors for many years, Zhang Ruifang was very quiet. Lin Jiang only remembered inviting her to eat snacks from the big marketce and they rarely spoke to each other. They probably didn''t exchange more than ten sentences in a year.

    On the other hand, he had many conversations with her brother Zhang Ruifeng.

    "What happened to the Zhang family? Weren''t they prosperous? How did Zhang Ruifang be an assassin?"

    Lin Jiang returned home and thought about this matter. He remembered that many people in the Zhang family were disciples of the Zhonghang Sect. Even if they were outer disciples, their foundations were stronger than those of independent cultivators like him.

    However, being an assassin is not a good profession in the cultivation world. The major sects and families despise it and almost always eradicate assassin organizations. So, it is certain that something has happened to the Zhang family.

    "Should I go back and take a look?"

    "No, I can''t go back. Since I have severed all ties with my previous identity as Lin Jiang, I can''t go back. Zhang Ruifang is already suspicious that I am the previous Lin Jiang. If I go back and she sees me, it might expose the secret. We are not rted or close in any way."

    Lin Jiang quickly dismissed the idea of going back to take a look. He and Zhang Ruifang are not rted or close, they are just ordinary neighbors. If the secret is exposed, it could easily lead to trouble. Lin Jiang doesn''t want to take that risk.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Fang''er, how did it go?"

    Zhang Ruifang entered the house and a man greeted her, asking softly.

    "I gave him amunication talisman and owe him a favor. I''ll repay him in the future."

    "I mean, are you sure he is the Jiang Lin from back then?"

    "No, it should not be him."

    "But I have a feeling that I won''t be wrong."

    "Even if it is him, so what? Everyone has their own secrets. He didn''t bully your mother back then, on the contrary, he helped her a lot. You should be grateful instead of wanting to kill him."

    Zhang Ruifang looked at the man in front of her and said, "This man is called Cao Yang. He is her husband and the person who guided her into the organization. He also has another identity, he is the son of Liu Bai Xue who used to sell goods at South City Market."

    "I never thought of killing him. I just want to know his secret. Someone who can live in Yunzhong City for so many years must be very wealthy, Fang Er. We need money, we need resources, so that we can be stronger and seek revenge for my mother and your brother."

    "I will seek revenge for my brother myself, you don''t need to worry."

    "It''s difficult. In the Battle of Sanjiang Estuary, the organization was fully exposed. Many high-ranking members were killed, and both the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect made their moves. The organization wants us to stay silent and hidden. In the uing years, we won''t be able to make any money or continue our cultivation. What are we going to do about our revenge?"

    Cao Yang said. In the Battle of Sanjiang Estuary, the Dark Night Organization suffered heavy losses. The losses were not caused by the battle itself, but by the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect attacking from behind. Many of our high-ranking members were also killed. The organization has been severely crippled and has be a thorn in the eyes of both sects. They have decided to go into hiding and will not do any business for several years. They have lost their biggest source of wealth.

    "Cao Yang, I don''t want you to be a person who ignores right and wrong for the sake of hatred. Jiang Lin took care of your mother a lot back then. Even if he is just the neighbor, you shouldn''ty a hand on him."

    Zhang Ruifang looked at Cao Yang and spoke seriously. Cao Yang knew that Zhang Ruifang was serious, so he stopped talking about this for now.

    "Fine, fine, let''s not mess with him anymore. But tell me, how did Jiang Lin help my mother back then?"

    "Hmm, back then..."

    Zhang Ruifang nodded and told the story. The years at South City Market were her happiest moments. With her brother by her side, everything was peaceful at home. They would do some small business every day and earn money. Life was simple yet fulfilling.

    Even that brother Jiang Lin, who seemed unfriendly, was kind to her. He bought her many delicious treats. At that time, their family had a low ie, and her brother couldn''t bear to buy snacks. It was that brother Jiang Lin who bought them for her.

    The little details of life, perhaps forgotten by others, but she remembered them clearly. She would never forget them in her lifetime.

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52

    West City Market

    When Lin Jiang arrived here, he found many people gathered together, with a curious attitude. Lin Jiang also went closer to take a look and saw that the Yunzhong City Guards were escorting three cultivators, both men and women.

    Through the conversation of people nearby, Lin Jiang learned that these three individuals were assassins from the Dark Night Organization, captured by Yunzhong City and soon to be beheaded.

    "Beheading is something that people in the cultivation world also enjoy watching."

    Lin Jiang looked at theyers of onlookers, a mix of excitement and disappointment filling his heart. Without moving a step, Lin Jiang began watching as well.

    "Brother, why aren''t they starting already?"

    "Fishing."

    "Fishing?"

    "Yes, there are many people in the Dark Night Organization, and there are still many who haven''t been caught. They are waiting for the Dark Night Organization toe and rescue them. I heard that the other two major markets are also doing the same.""The people from the Dark Night Organization wouldn''t be so foolish, right?"

    "Who knows?"

    Lin Jiang saw someone nearby discussing the reasons for not taking action yet. Lin Jiang thought it made sense, but he didn''t think the people from the Dark Night Organization were that foolish.

    Yunzhong City always had a Nascent Soul Ancestor watching over it. If the Nascent Soul Ancestor couldn''t handle it, the two major sects still had a Soul Changing Ancestor waiting. With the strength of the Soul Changing Ancestor, it would only take an instant to rush over from the sects'' mountain gates.

    As Lin Jiang expected, the Yunzhong City guards waited for over two hours, but no one came to rob the field. When they realized no one wasing, they took action.

    "Okay."

    The executioner raised his knife and the crowd cheered loudly. There were no instances of blood-filled bread, as cultivators were not superstitious.

    Lin Jiang followed the dispersing crowd and vaguely seemed to catch a glimpse of Zhang Ruifang''s figure, but he wasn''t sure. He didn''t want to have much to do with Zhang Ruifang either.

    Back at his stall, Lin Jiang started selling talismans. In these few days, Lin Jiang''s talisman making had improved. He could now draw ten first level premium spiritual talismans in a day.

    This wasn''t an unbelievable thing either. Lin Jiang had been able to draw first level premium spiritual talismans decades ago. Having cultivated at this level for many years, his talisman drawing technique had be extremely skilled.

    With years of practicing the Soul Refining Technique and taking the Soul Nourishing Pill, his spiritual power became much stronger than the average Qi Refining cultivator. Improving his talisman skills came naturally to him.

    This was Lin Jiang''s unique advantage. Compared to other cultivators with good aptitude, who could breakthrough the Building Foundation Period in their thirties or forties, Lin Jiang could stay in theter stages of Qi Refining for a longer time due to his cultivation.

    For those with poor aptitude, if they stayed for a long time, by the time they reached sixty years old, their vitality would decline. They wouldn''t be able to make further progress, and maintaining their current state would already be considered good.

    Lin Jiang was the only one who could maintain his peak state. As time passed, his talisman skills kept improving, leading to his remarkable achievements.

    "If I can sell all ten talismans in a day, my ie and expenses would be bnced."

    Lin Jiang estimated that if he could sell all his spiritual talismans, he would earn around ny dors per day, a high ie for a Qi Refining cultivator. He could almost achieve a bnced financial situation and even save some money if he spent wisely.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In Yunzhong City, there was no designated market for everyday shopping. All the stalls were set up in the main market. This included resources for cultivating like pills, talismans, items, and formations. Fruits, vegetables, and snacks were also avable for purchase.

    Zhang Ruifang might have done it on purpose. Ever since Lin Jiang helped her in Sanjiang Estuary, he frequently saw her in the main market.

    However, every time Zhang Ruifang saw her, she didn''t have the vibe of a killer, but instead, she seemed like a homemaker, just buying groceries every day.

    "Look at that senior in the Building Foundation Period, she also buys groceries and cooks every day. Is the Building Foundation Period simr to ordinary women?"

    Lin Jiang asked the person beside him, "Shouldn''t the Building Foundation Period be detached from the mundane? It shouldn''t be like a woman, right?"

    "What''s so strange about that? Cultivators are also humans. Although theoretically the Building Foundation Period can go without eating for half a year, everyone has been eating for decades. Who would want to eat Inedia Pills every day? Also, spiritual food can increase spiritual energy, and there''s no toxic side effects. If Taoist Friend Lin goes to a restaurant, you''ll find that there are many people in the Building Foundation Period there."

    "Ah, I see. Thank you for exining."

    "No problem, but this senior is a bit strange. Is she not making any money by wandering around every day?"

    The vendor beside them said, "Even Building Foundation Period cultivators in the independent cultivator world are poor. Those Building Foundation Period independent cultivators in Yunzhong City are busy every day and can''t make ends meet. They are always trying to get spirit stones and resources."

    Seeing that the person beside him was bing suspicious, Lin Jiang quickly changed the topic. He didn''t want things to go wrong. But as they talked, the conversation turned to the topic of the assassin organization.

    ording to their ounts, the assassin organizations in Yunzhong City have been numerous for hundreds of years. Most of them are small-scale and made up of temporary members. They do business by taking contracts to kill.

    Compared to the Dark Night Organization, those killers are very amateurish, while the Dark Night is much more professional. Their killer organization is carefully trained, focusing on killing skills and mastering various techniques. Even those in the Building Foundation Period may be assassinated by killers in the Qi Refining Period.

    Therefore, the two major sects deeply despise the killer organization. When they encounter one, they wipe it out. Just like this, after the battle at the Sanjiang Estuary, the two major sects took action. The Dark Night Organization suffered heavy losses and has now gone silent. Perhaps it has already disbanded.

    Lin Jiang cannot deny this. He believes that Zhang Ruifang is still undercover, and the Dark Night cannot simply disband like this.

    "Forget it, forget it. It''s not my business. It''s best to mind my own safety and well-being."

    Finally, Lin Jiang shook his head. He couldn''t get involved in such nonsense. The more involved, the quicker the death. He just wants to live his own peaceful life.

    As time passed, Lin Jiang''s spiritual power became more and more profound, constantly growing. This is a very good thing because on the path of cultivation, there is a very frustrating thing called a bottleneck.

    A bottleneck is a peculiar thing. No matter how you cultivate, your spiritual power cultivation doesn''t increase. The refined spiritual power seems to disappear into thin air.

    And solving this bottleneck is also difficult. Some people rely on elixirs, like the famous Barrier-Breaking Pill, but not only is it expensive, it is also not effective for everyone.

    Others go out on adventures. There is a theory that says a bottleneck urs due to a problem with one''s state of mind. Therefore, one must travel to different ces and experience various matters to break the bottleneck.

    Some people rely on endurance, keep enduring, and the bottleneck might naturally open up. Of course, the most possible oue is they directly die of old age.

    Lin Jiang doesn''t show any sign of a bottleneck yet, so he is considered lucky. Of course, there are many people without bottlenecks, like Mr. Lin and Lin Ying. They both built their foundations early, and it''s uncertain if there will be a bottleneck during the Foundation Building Period.

    "I have been at the ninth level of Qi Refining for almost four years. I estimate that it will take another ten years or so to reach the perfect level. After reaching the perfect level, I need to find a way to build my foundation. I wonder how many Building Foundation Pills someone with my poor talent would need."

    Lin Jiang pondered. There are genius individuals who can forcefully break through without using Building Foundation Pills, but obviously, Lin Jiang is not one of them.

    He has inquired and found out that there are Building Foundation Periods for cultivators with Five Spiritual Roots. However, he hasn''t heard of an independent cultivator with Five Spiritual Roots being able to build their foundation. This is because independent cultivators don''t have enough money to buy arge amount of Building Foundation Pills, they can''t even afford one.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Don''t underestimate the value of Building Foundation Pills, they cost around twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones. For cultivators in the Qi Refining Period, this is already a sky-high price. Ordinary people start cultivating at the age of twelve and at the age of sixty, their vitality starts to decline. That''s why they say there''s a sixty-year limit.

    In other words, ordinary people only have a total of forty-eight years in the Qi Refining Period. To improve their cultivation by ten levels during these forty-eight years, they need to invest a lot of resources each year. On top of that, they also need to take care of daily expenses like food, drink, and living. It''s incredibly difficult to save up an additional twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones.

    This is why independent cultivators envy sects and families. Sects and families not only have territories that generate continuous ie each year, but they also gather people and can collectively fund major events. Independent cultivators can''tpete with that alone.

    "I went off track. I went off track. Let''s get back to the main topic. How many Building Foundation Pills should I prepare?"

    Lin Jiang quickly refocused his thoughts and stopped daydreaming, focusing on how to build a strong foundation.

    ording to the information Lin Jiang gathered, some well-born cultivators called the "Five Spiritual Roots" want to build a foundation. They need at least two "Building Foundation Pills," as well as some auxiliary elixirs, a rich spiritual environment, and skilled guards to ensure a stable environment.

    If Lin Jiang wants to prepare all these requirements, he would need to spend a hundred thousand or even more spirit stones.

    "To prepare four Building Foundation Pills, plus other auxiliary elixirs and the right environment, it will cost around twenty thousand spirit stones. So, in total, it will be over a hundred thousand. At this rate, even if I save one thousand spirit stones per year, it will take me a hundred years to umte enough. It seems the hope for lower-level cultivators lies in mutation after all."

    Lin Jiang calcted and realized that the cost was too high. Unless a lower-level cultivator had exceptional talent, there was truly no hope of breaking through the Building Foundation Period.

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53

    Time flew by, and in the blink of an eye, Lin Jiang had reached the age of one hundred and forty-eight.

    On this day, Lin Jiang visited the West City Market and saw a group of vendors chatting together. Since he arrived early, he joined them.

    "Hello, fellow friends. Anything interesting happening today? Please share."

    "Friend Lin, you are alwayste every time."

    "Yes, Friend Lin, we can''t let you watch the fun for free every time."

    "Alright, I''ll pay for today''s tea."

    Lin Jiangughed and said. He does indeed alwayseter than everyone else. These vendors are mostly full-time and theye early and leavete. He is thest toe and the first to leave.

    "Hehe, thank you very much, Friend Lin. There was an interesting event that happened in Yunzhong City a few years ago. Nn Yan from the Nn family, a Grand Elder of the Zhonghang Sect''s outer door, was abducted by an independent cultivator."

    "I''ve heard about it. The Nn family also lost a very important treasure, the Five Elements Golden Fruit. They even offered a reward to capture that independent cultivator. So, what happened next?"Lin Jiang immediately said. Yes, yes. Wen Xing, what he did, how could he not know? He saw it with his own eyes.

    "Yes, yes. That independent cultivator, Wen Xing, has recently returned."

    "Really? Is that independent cultivator so powerful that even the Zhonghang Sect is not afraid?"

    "Not afraid anymore, Taoist Friend Lin heard about Pill King Li Ruoxu."

    "Brother, I am not someone who ignores what''s happening. How could Pill King Li Ruoxu not know? He is the pride of our independent cultivators."

    Lin Jiang expressed his dissatisfaction, thinking, "Does he really think I''mpletely clueless? A shut-in, perhaps?"

    Pill King Li Ruoxu is well-known in Yunzhong City and even in the whole Yun State. With his Nascent Soul stage cultivation, he surpasses all the major sects in alchemy. He even earned the title of Pill King.

    The most important thing is that he is an independent cultivator. He has no family or sect. Through his own effort, he reached the Nascent Soul stage. This has motivated countless independent cultivators in their cultivation journey, earning him the title of "Light of the Independent Cultivators."

    "Yes, it''s him, Pill King. He''s truly amazing. As independent cultivators, it''s not easy for us to cultivate. We don''t have many in the Building Foundation Period, let alone..."

    "Ahem, let''s not digress. About Wen Xing, what''s his rtionship with Pill King?"

    "Ah, sorry for going off-topic. Wen Xing, he''s really something. He escaped from Yunzhong City years ago and somehow ended up under Pill King Li Ruoxu''s wing. Now, he is Pill King Li Ruoxu''s personal disciple. Even Zhonghang Sect has to treat him respectfully, not to mention just a mere Outer Sect Grand Elder. In Zhonghang Sect, Outer Sect Grand Elders are only at the Golden Core Period, they are not considered true elders..."

    "I''m more curious about Nn Yan."

    "I don''t know about that, Wen Xing didn''t bring it. Now we are all guessing what will happen to the Nn family."

    "Exactly, does Taoist Friend Lin want to ce a bet? Some people have already started betting on whether the Nn family will do something to Wen Xing."

    "I bet they won''t do anything. The title of Pill King is not just a boast."

    "Can Pill King match up against Zhonghang Sect? I bet the Nn family will definitely make a move."

    "When did the Nn family start representing Zhonghang Sect? I''m sure they won''t."

    Soon, the topic changed again. People started arguing whether the Nn family would do something to Wen Xing, because someone had started betting on this matter and many people ced bets.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, Taoist Friend Lin, aren''t you going to ce a bet?"

    "Sorry, I can''t associate with gambling and drugs."

    Lin Jiang said seriously. Who would ce a bet? Isn''t it better to just watch and enjoy?

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Star-picking Building is one of the top-notch inns in Yunzhong City. It has a total of seven floors and upies a veryrge area. This industry, needless to say, belongs to either the Zhonghang Sect or the Cloud Sword Sect.

    Inside a room in the Star-picking Building, Wen Xing was gazing out the window. From this position, he could see most of Yunzhong City, with a splendid view.

    "What are you looking at so intently?"

    A man who seemed to be middle-aged walked up to Wen Xing and spoke to him.

    "I am watching the millions of living beings in Yunzhong City. Master, don''t you find it interesting?"

    "Yes, it''s quite interesting. When I was young, I also made a living in this Yunzhong City. If it weren''t for my skill in alchemy, I might have ended up just like them, struggling for a living or turning into a pile of dirt long ago."

    "Yes, Master, I was also thinking that if I hadn''t met you, I might already be dead. The Nn family is really ruthless."

    "Haha, it seems you''re still unwilling to let go of the Nn family, huh?"

    "Master, the Nn family doesn''t want to let me go. I didn''t steal the Five Elements Golden Fruit, and Yan''er didn''t take it either. They framed and set me up."

    Wen Xing said with anger on his face. Back then, it was true that he took Nn Yan away, or to be more urate, Nn Yan took him away.

    When news of his double-dealing with two sides was exposed, the Nn family became furious. They felt that Wen Xing had insulted their family''s reputation and wanted to send someone to kill him. After Nn Yan found out about this, she secretly came to tell him.

    Because the situation was urgent and he had offended too many people, he couldn''t easily leave the city. In the end, it was Nn Yan who took him away. At that time, Nn Yan took some resources from the Nn family, like spirit stones, but definitely not the Five Elements Golden Fruit.

    Afterwards, the Nn family relentlessly pursued and chased him, causing him to lose sight of Nn Yan. It was only when he met Li Ruoxu that he was able to shake off his pursuers and ultimately became Li Ruoxu''s disciple.

    All of these things made Wen Xing extremely hateful towards the Nn family. This time, he came back with the intention of confronting them face-to-face.

    "The Nn family''s petty matters are probably just a disy of their dirty tricks. Their mindset is limited to this."

    Li Ruoxu said. Although he didn''t know exactly what had happened, he could make some educated guesses. It''s likely that someone from the Nn family stole something and framed Wen Xing, while also killing to cover up the whole situation.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Master said it, and I also think the same."

    "Okay, how do you n to get back at the Nn family?"

    "The Nn family has the support of the Zhonghang Sect, and I don''t want to trouble my master too much. I only want to know if Yan''er is alive or dead and bring her back to me."

    "Nn Yan, I will help you get justice. As long as she is alive, I will definitely bring her to you. But you must not let my daughter down."

    "Master, it''s true that I am passionate, but I am not indiscriminate. I couldn''t help it before, but now I have chosen the right path. My sincere love for Yan''er is visible to all."

    Wen Xing quickly said, the reason he could be Li Ruoxu''s disciple was not only because of his alchemy talent. The most important reason was that Li Ruoxu''s only daughter fell in love with him. Without this rtionship, he wouldn''t even have the opportunity to be a disciple. Over the years, Li Ruoxu had encountered many talented individuals.

    Li Ruoxu initially disagreed because Wen Xing''s past was truly remarkable. So Li Ruoxu gave Wen Xing a hard time at first. But Wen Xing endured all of Li Ruoxu''s challenges and was eventually epted by him.

    "That''s good to know. Focus on your cultivation. Once your abilities improve, the Nn family won''t be an issue."

    Li Ruoxu nodded. He didn''t expect Wen Xing to only have his daughter as a woman. That''s just the way the world works. Powerful men can have many women, and powerful women can have many men. It''s all about your strength.

    He only wants to ensure his daughter''s happiness. After all, why is his daughter so fascinated with Wen Xing? He couldn''t do anything about it.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Can you tell me what''s going on with the Five Elements Golden Fruit? Who took it?"

    Zhonghang Sect, Nn De said to the two elder members of the Nn family.

    Wen Xing appeared in Yunzhong City, and they were the first to know. They also knew Wen Xing'' current identity, so they didn''t dare to confront him directly. Instead, they sent someone to question him. Wen Xing replied that he didn''t take the Five Elements Golden Fruit, and that Nn Yan didn''t take it either.

    Nn De couldn''t be sure if Wen Xing was telling the truth, so he had toe back and investigate to see if there was a thief causing trouble.

    "Ancestor, it''s true that the Five Elements Golden Fruit is missing. As for whether Wen Xing or Nn Yan took it, I don''t know."

    "Ancestor, Wen Xing'' words can''t be trusted. The Five Elements Golden Fruit is so precious. Can we really believe him when he says he didn''t take it?"

    "You''re right. Go and bring Wen Xing back."

    "Um..."

    The man was suddenly speechless. It was easy to tie up Wen Xing, even though he was now in the Building Foundation Period, he was no match for the Nn family. But he cannot offend Wen Xing'' master, a master alchemist who can befriend countless strong individuals.

    I must investigate this matter thoroughly. It concerns not only the reputation of our Nn family, but also the issue of a traitor in our midst. We must be vignt against family traitors, as they are hard to guard against. If the Nn family has a traitor and remains unaware, it will lead to our own destruction.

    For now, don''t engage in any other matters. Focus on rifying the current situation for me. First, find out who stole the Five Elements Golden Fruit. Second, determine where Nn Yan has gone, whether she is alive or dead. If we don''t uncover these truths, none of us will have good days ahead."

    Nn De nced coldly at the two individuals. This time, the Nn family has truly brought shame upon themselves. Countless members of the Zhonghang Sect areughing at them.

    Therefore, the best remedy now is to uncover the truth. Who stole the Five Elements Golden Fruit? Where is Nn Yan, and is she alive or dead?

    "Yes, ancestor."

    The two elders both agreed, and after Nn De left, they exchanged a nce.

    "Nn Xiong, what do you think? Who could have stolen the Five Elements Golden Fruit?"

    "Nn Xi, what do you mean? Are you suggesting that I stole it?"

    "The Five Elements Golden Fruit was being guarded by someone from your house at that time."

    "Then you, Nn Xi, need to exin clearly. Nn Yan has run away, but why is the Soul Lamp in the ancestral hall also missing? Who was thest person to see Nn Yan? Could someone be trying to cover up a murder?"

    "Oh well, let''s just wait and see."

    Nn Xi couldn''t exin it all at once. There were many suspicions about this matter. Nn Yan ran away, but her Soul Lamp is also missing. There is something extraordinary about this.

    "Let''s just wait and see."

    Nn Xiong said coldly, as he watched Nn Xi''s figure walk away. He, too, fell into deep thought. Who could have done this?

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54

    "What does the guest want to buy?"

    In a small shop in CityWest City called Yunzhong, Cao Yang looked at the unfamiliar face entering the door and said, after lurking for years, he also needed to make a living. So he opened a workshop in the city, but his skills were not great and he could only make some low-level magical tools, barely making ends meet.

    "I want to create a flying sword, it should be three feet long..."

    "No problem, this flying sword only needs one hundred and twenty spirit stones."

    "This is the deposit."

    The person was very generous, leaving a letter with spirit stones in a box, cing it in front of Cao Yang, and then said a few words before leaving.

    Cao Yang picked up the spirit stones in the box and found a piece of paper underneath, so he took it as well. He walked into the shop and read the contents of the paper, and his face immediately changed.

    After thinking for a moment, Cao Yang closed the shop and headed home. When he arrived home, a little girl happily hugged his leg and called out "Dad" in a blurry voice.

    Seeing the little girl, Cao Yang smiled and lifted her up, spinning her around, making the child giggle. He also took out some snacks, making the child even happier."You''re giving her candy again, all her teeth will be rotten."

    "If they rot, they rot. I''ll buy some elixirster, and they''ll grow back."

    "Why did youe back so early today? I haven''t cooked dinner yet."

    Zhang Ruifang said. During the day, Cao Yang takes care of the store, and he usuallyes back at night. Coming back in broad daylight, is there something he wants to do?

    "The organization has issued a new mission."

    "What is it?"

    Upon hearing this, Zhang Ruifang was incredibly shocked. They had been undercover for several years, and the organization hadn''t given any updates. They even wondered if the organization had disappeared. But now, there was news again.

    "This time, the mission is to assassinate a cultivator in the Building Foundation Period named Wen Xing. We have half a year toplete it, and themission is fifty thousand spirit stones. Within three days, we will receive ten thousand spirit stones as a deposit."

    "Wen Xing, Wen Xing, he''s a disciple of the Pill King."

    Zhang Ruifang''splexion turned pale. This was a mission that would result in their death. Wen Xing was a disciple of the Pill King. Would it be easy to kill him? And even if they managed to kill him, they would probably have a hard time escaping.

    "I know, but we can''t refuse the organization''s mission. If we refuse, we will be the ones who die."

    "Cao Yang, we''re done. Let''s go. Yun State is so big, no one can find us. We can leave Yun State and start a new life in another state."

    "Xiao Fang, do you think we can escape? You know how deep the organization''s influence is."

    "No matter how strong the organization is, they can''tpare to Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect. They can''t reach outside the state. Cao Yang, you have to think about our child. If we die, what will happen to our child? We''re not alone anymore."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhang Ruifang said. She ispletely different from years ago. She used to be a cold-blooded killer, but now she is a mother. Her child is only two years old. If they die, the child will surely die too.

    "It''s because of our child that we mustplete this mission. Fifty thousand spirit stones are a lot, several times more than our previous missions."

    Cao Yang said. He doesn''t want to run away. He and his wife don''t have many skills. Their abilities in pill, talisman, item, and formation are very poor. Their alchemy shop can''t make much money, only enough for food.

    But they are cultivators. They need to cultivate, not just eat. Cultivation requires a lot of resources. Now that they have a son, he hopes his son will be a powerful cultivator in the future. Therefore, resources are essential.

    "Cao Yang, have you thought about what will happen to our child if we die?"

    "Yes, I have thought about it. But what I consider more is, if we don''t have money, what will happen to our child? And what about you and me? Do you really want to spend the rest of our lives like this? Don''t you want to seek revenge for your brother, for my mother?"

    "Revenge, revenge, your mind is full of revenge. Do you know who your enemy is? After investigating for so many years, have you found your enemy?"

    Zhang Ruifang exploded a bit, angrily shouting at Cao Yang, who fell into silence all of a sudden.

    Zhang Ruifang was right. He didn''t know who the enemy was. Back then, his mother, White Snow and Zhang Ruifang''s older brother set up stalls in therge market. Later, they were tempted by other independent cultivators to explore the Yunzhong Mountain Range and search for the previous cultivators. They never came back.

    At that time, Cao Yang was still practicing at home and hadn''t even seen people. Although Zhang Ruifang had seen those people, she couldn''t find those independent cultivators. The mobility of Yunzhong City''s independent cultivators was very high, so it was very likely that their enemy had already died.

    Afterwards, Cao Yang went to the Yunzhong Mountain Range to find his mother, encountered danger, and met the Dark Night Organization. He was taken in by them andter met Zhang Ruifang. The two of them only then realized that there was such a fate between them.

    "Xiao Fang, don''t get excited."

    "Why can''t I be excited? You''re my man. What will I do if you die? What will happen to our child?"

    "But..."

    Cao Yang didn''t know how to respond at first. He was willing to take on this task, and one big reason was that he didn''t want to live such a dull life.

    The cultivators really need resources. With resources, he can improve his skills and live a good life. The past few years of in life have made him very depressed. Now, they don''t have much savings left. If they don''t take on tasks, in two years, they won''t be able to afford even a meal. The cost of living in Yunzhong City is too high.

    When Zhang Ruifang saw that Cao Yang was so excited, he didn''t n to say these heartfelt words. He is a man. Since he is someone''s husband and father, he will bear all of this.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Wen, would you like to buy a spiritual talisman?"

    At West City Market, Lin Jiang looked at Wen Xing and said.

    "Do you know me?"

    Wen Xing raised an eyebrow, staring at the cultivator selling spiritual talismans in front of him and said.

    "Senior Wen is a disciple of Pill King Li Ruoxu, and Li Ruoxu is a guiding light for us independent cultivators on the path of cultivation. How many independent cultivators in Yunzhong City don''t know Senior?"

    Lin Jiang replied, saying it''s not strange to know him, but it would be strange not to know him. As a rtively unknown independent cultivator, that is the right response.

    "What is your name?"

    "Lin Yang"

    "Lin Yang, Lin Yang, do you know Lin Yu?"

    "I know several people named Lin Yu, I don''t know which one you are referring to."

    "Like you, he is a talisman seller, probably around fifty or sixty years old, or possibly in the Building Foundation Period."

    "Then I don''t know him. The Lin Yus I know are at the Qi Refining stage, but it''s been a long time since Ist saw them. I don''t know if they''re still alive. May I ask why you are looking for this Lin Yu?"

    "Riches and fame don''t make one happy. It''s like wearing fancy clothes in the dark. This young man yed tricks on me in the past, so naturally I wanted revenge," Wen Xing said.

    He already knew. It was that Lin Yu who called his several beautiful female friends to the big market, causing him to fail in love. If it hadn''t been such a big deal, he probably wouldn''t be in the situation he is now.

    Of course, his revenge isn''t about killing someone, but to humiliate him deeply. To make you regret not helping me back then, do you regret it? If you had helped me, you would have had a friend in the Building Foundation Period and maybe even had the opportunity to get close to Li Ruoxu.

    "If you''re seeking revenge, then I won''t get involved. I''m just a seller of talismans, trying to make a living."

    Lin Jiang replied, but he rolled his eyes in his heart. "Hmph, you''re still holding grudges? Do you know how many people you''ve offended, how many people''s goddesses you''ve ruined? If you hadn''t made it onto Li Ruoxu''s list, you would''ve been killed long ago."

    "Don''t sellers of talismans know how to chat like you?"

    "Senior, please don''t involve us little people in matters between experts like you. We can''t afford it."

    "It''s boring."

    "Senior, won''t you buy a few talismans?"

    "Go away."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang shut his mouth and watched as Wen Xing approached other talisman sellers to chat. Lin Jiang touched his own face, luckily he had practiced the Disguise Skill, otherwise he would easily be exposed.

    "We need to learn the skill of disguise, otherwise we will end up offending people sooner orter, and sometimes we have to be cowardly when the timees."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, for someone like him who constantly changes identities, the skill of disguise is extremely important. After returning home, he will continue to learn the skill of disguise, ideally to a level where no one can recognize him.

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55

    Lin Jiang came back from the bustling market and saw a person standing at the door.

    The person saw Lin Jiang returning and immediately squeezed out a smile,ing forward and saying, "Taoist Friend Lin, you''re back!"

    "What''s the matter, Taoist friend Liao?"

    "Ah, it''s all because of my younger brother. Today, he was practicing magic in the courtyard and lost control. He almost broke through the protective formation of your house. I''vee to apologize for it."

    "Again?"

    Lin Jiang''s face darkened instantly. The person in front of him was called Liao Wengui, one of the three brothers in the family. He had a younger brother named Liao Lianggui and a third brother named Liao Fugui.

    The three brothers rented a house next to Lin Jiang and became neighbors. In Yunzhong City, it is verymon for small families like theirs to live together. Being with their own people makes them feel saferpared to outsiders.

    The youngest of the Liao family, Liao Lianggui, is an enthusiast of the art of cultivation. He spends all his time practicing cultivation and even holds a record of not eating for five years, relying only on the Inedia Pill. If this was a world of martial arts, he would be considered a fanatic.

    However, Lin Jiang prefers to call him the "Hard-working King". This guy is too devoted to his cultivation that Lin Jiang has ever seen countless diligent cultivators, but he has never seen someone so dedicated like him."I''m sorry, Taoist Friend Lin, it''s just a small token of appreciation, please don''t refuse."

    Liao Lianggui brought out a tray of pastries, which he made himself. He makes a living from selling these pastries and setting up stalls at the big market. Business is quite good for him.

    "No need, just make sure he''s careful in the future and doesn''t y like this again. Not everyone has my patience. If he encounters someone with a bad temper, the guards can have him expelled."

    Lin Jiang''s expression turned cold. He didn''t take what he offered. Lin Jiang doesn''t easily ept food from others.

    The actions of the youngest of the Liao family are also very dangerous. Whether intentional or not, he has repeatedly touched the defensive array of someone else''s house, which can be seen as an act of aggression. It can be reported to the guards and he might be expelled.

    "Yes, yes, I will definitely educate him properly. Thank you very much, Taoist Friend Lin."

    "Hmm, one more thing, in the future, when you make a mistake, let your younger brother apologize personally instead of always apologizing yourself as the older brother."

    Lin Jiang said, then he walked into the house. He wasn''t familiar with the Liao family, who had moved in six months ago. They were arge family, but he wouldn''t have known them if Liao Fugui hadn''t asionally practiced his spells and identally attacked their house.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In the evening, Lin Jiang was drawing symbols. With the increase in living expenses, he needed to earn money faster, so he would work extra hours every night, draw two more symbols, and then go to sleep.

    Suddenly, Lin Jiang sensed movement outside the door. This immediately made him alert. Cultivators didn''t have pests like cockroaches or mice at home because even if they did, they would be detected by the cultivator''s spiritual awareness and exterminated physically.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang touched his body and made sure he was wearing his protective armor. He felt much safer. Then, he adjusted the positions of his storage bag and Spirit Beast Bag, put down his brush, and waited for the important guest to arrive.

    But after two hours, there was still no movement outside the door. This made Lin Jiang uneasy. Could it have been an illusion earlier?

    "You''re quite vignt, very good."

    Just as Lin Jiang hesitated whether to go out and check, he heard a voice behind him. Lin Jiang quickly turned around and saw a person standing in front of him.

    Lin Jiang felt scared and sweaty, is this the strength of an assassin? If the other person wanted to kill him, he might already be done for.

    "Cao Yang, it''s not very polite to suddenly barge into my house."

    "It is quite impolite, my wife doesn''t like this."

    "Are you here to kill me?"

    "A few years ago, I wanted to kill you, but not anymore. After all, you saved my wife''s life. My family owes you a favor."

    Cao Yang said that a few years ago, he had a strong desire to kill Lin Jiang. One reason was that he knew Lin Jiang was rich, and the other reason was that he suspected Lin Jiang was Jiang Lin from back then. His mother used to do business in the marketce and, due to being alone and helpless, had to do whatever it took to survive. This was a great shame for Cao Yang, who had a strong sense of dignity, so he punished anyone who took advantage of his mother.

    "So, what are you here for? Did you have a fight with your wife and came to hide here?"

    "Haha, you''re quite amusing."

    "Did I guess correctly?"

    "Wrong,ing here was to ask for your help."

    Cao Yang rolled his eyes, who are these people? How can their minds be so small-minded, don''t they have any broader perspective?

    "You say, I''ll help however I can."

    "You know my identity, right?"

    "I know, otherwise how could I save your wife."

    "Hmm, I am an assassin from the Dark Night Organization. I recently took a big job and if I fail, I''ll die. Even if I seed, there''s still a 50% chance I''ll die. If I don''t die, I have to escape."

    "You wouldn''t want to entrust your wife and child to me, would you?"

    "Smart."

    "I''m afraid that won''t work."

    Lin Jiang said. Young man, aren''t you afraid of me bing a viin? Does anyone really do things like this?

    "Even if it''s not okay, it has to be okay. Besides, I won''t let you suffer. I have also saved you once."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Did a family move in next to your house half a year ago?"

    "The Liao family, what happened to them?"

    "The Liao family is on my side. They are also members of the Dark Night Organization, but they are younger generation. Our organization has been undercover for many years. They are extremely poor, so they have resorted to doing bandit activities. They are nning to attack and kill you. The third son of the Liao family, Liao Fugui, is a fanatic in practicing martial arts, but he''s not foolish. He used the pretext of practicing secret techniques to test the strength of your defensive formation. At the same time, he wanted people around to get used to such disturbances."

    Cao Yang looked at Lin Jiang and slowly said, Lin Jiang''s face becamepletely ugly, and there was a surge of resentment in his heart. After all these years, Lin Jiang has been low-key and kind to others, yet there are still people targeting him. It''s simply unfair.

    "Tsk tsk, such strong killing intent. Not bad, not bad, a trace of courage."

    "Thank you so much."

    "No need, I will help you solve the problem for the Liao family."

    "Do your own work, take revenge for yourself."

    "Haha, this is also my business. Their other task is to monitor me. I just helped you on the side, no need to thank me too much."

    "Let me ask you another question. Are you really at ease entrusting your family to me, who is at a lower cultivation level than you, in the Building Foundation Period while you have a higher cultivation level than me, even your wife?"

    "Haha, Lin Yang, Lin Yang, guess how many times I have been to your house."

    "You..."

    Lin Jiang suddenly was dumbfounded. How could he forget about this? This guy must know many secrets about him, like the Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    "Why are you in a hurry? I won''t expose you."

    "You''re ruthless."

    "I like being straightforward. My wife is no longer as decisive as before. Things changed when we had children. If I leave or die, you must take good care of them. Otherwise, our family will be informed, and you will also be in danger."

    Cao Yang said, he revealed one of Lin Jiang''s identities. Aurora falcon is very unique, not many people in Yunzhong City can raise them, and he had two of them. With just a little investigation, you can find out that He Yunwei, the young master of the He family, was killed.

    "Okay, I promise you. Even during the Building Foundation Period, orter, if we engage in directbat, I have the ability to protect myself."

    Lin Jiang immediately said, but this statement is also vague. What does it mean to engage in directbat? What does it mean to protect oneself? Hehe, no exnation.

    "Alright, I''ll go now."

    "Wait a moment."

    "Is there something else?"

    "I want to ask, how did you break through my family''s defense formation? My control token didn''t respond. Does the neighboring Liao family have this ability?"

    There is a special spiritual tool called Breaking Array Cone. It requires unique materials and refining techniques. This Breaking Array Cone can cut a small opening in formations that are below second-tier quality. As long as it''s done quickly, the formation will not react.

    I don''t know how it''s made or what materials are needed. I just got it unexpectedly. The Liao family next door can''t do this, so don''t worry. They are just minor characters.

    "Thank you."

    Lin Jiang bowed and thanked him, jotting down the name. He wanted to try it out in the future, as it is an essential tool for home and travel, a weapon for killing.

    Cao Yang smiled and then walked out of the room. He made a gesture on the formation, and a gap appeared. Cao Yang jumped through the gap into the neighboring room.

    "Liao family, do they think I''m an easy target? Can anyone just watch me?"

    Lin Jiang looked at the neighboring room on the left and coldly said. He hated being watched like this. After being followed by Shi Tong for so long, he couldn''t rx for years. He had to stay on high alert. And now this?

    "Shadiao, it''s time for dinner."

    Lin Jiang summoned Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, feeding them the Demon Core fragments. He hadn''t given them any before because he was afraid they would be too powerful and hard to sustain. But now he needed them to enhance their strength for self-defense.

    The Demon Core had a deadly attraction to the demon beasts. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao swallowed them in one bite. Lin Jiang waited for an hour, relieved that they didn''t fall into a deep sleep. He was afraid that if they slept for several years, the food would go bad, and the grass on his grave would grow several yards tall.

    However, Lin Jiang discovered the next day that Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao couldn''t eat anymore. He guessed that the Demon Core''s energy was too strong and had filled them up. That way, they could save some money on food.

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56

    "Dear Taoist friend, please stay."

    On that day, as Lin Jiang walked out, he heard a sentence from behind that scared him. Instead of stopping, he quickened his pace.

    Dear Taoist friend, please stay. That sentence was so freaking scary.

    "taoist friendгмtaoist friend"

    The person behind called a few more times and hurriedly caught up, stopping Lin Jiang.

    "Dear Taoist friend, may I ask what''s the matter?"

    "Dear Taoist friend, hello, I am Jiang Jingzhong, thendlord of this No. 18 courtyard. I wonder if you have met any of the residents in No. 18?"

    "Ie and go early, rarely see them. Did Taoist Friend look for them for something?"

    Lin Jiang looked at the person in front of him, who seemed to be in his thirties or forties, and was a rare overweight person in the cultivation world. He had a simple and honest appearance, no, he seemed to have money."I am theirndlord. They were supposed to pay the rent two days ago. They didn''t show up when I came yesterday, and they didn''t show up today either. I''m worried."

    "Did you knock on the door?"

    "I almost knocked the door down, but no one responded. I don''t know if they ran away. Oh, there are rules in the city. Even if the rent is overdue for half a month, you can''t break into the house. Maybe they will have a half-month free stay."

    Jiang Jingzhong said worriedly. Cultivators often go into seclusion and have no idea about the outside world. So, in the past, a tenant went into seclusion. After the rent was due, thendlord broke into the house, which led to the tenant going crazy.

    That''s why Yunzhong City has set a rule. Even if it''s time to pay the rent, within half a month, thendlord can''t break into the house. Otherwise, they will bear the consequences. After half a month, if the tenant still doesn''t appear, thendlord has the right to break into the house and take it back. By then, even if there is any loss, the tenant will be responsible for it.

    "Taoist Friend Jiang has a house for rent in the city. That''s a decent person. It''s only half a month. They can make up for it then."

    Lin Jiang casually said, but waves of shock and worry surged in his heart. He carefully recalled that there seemed to be no activity next door for the past two days, and Cao Yang came to find him three days ago.

    Does that mean Cao Yang killed all the members of the Liao family the same night, but Lin Jiang didn''t make a sound? How strong is Cao Yang really?

    "What you''re saying is simple, but ourndlord is also difficult. I rely on the rent to support my three wives, eight concubines, and eighteen children. You see..."

    "Ahem, my friend who practices Taoism, I have something to do. I''ll leave first."

    When Lin Jiang heard this, he immediately got goosebumps. "Oh no, there are also show-offs in Yunzhong City. If you don''t treat me to a meal, why should I give you a chance to show off? I''m leaving."

    "Hey, Taoist friend, don''t go yet. I haven''t talked about my pet at home..."

    Jiang Jingzhong yelled after Lin Jiang. Who does he think he is? So rude, not waiting for people to finish talking. If I don''t finish, how do you know how rich I am?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect each upy one end of the Yunzhong Mountain Range. The sects naturally upy the best locations for their mountain gates, while the surrounding area is where their subordinate forces are located.

    These subordinate forces have intricate rtionships with the two major sects, and are mostly created by disciples of each sect. The Nn family is one of them.

    At the entrance of Nn family, Nn De and other senior members of the Nn family were respectfully seeing off Li Ruoxu and Wen Xing. Li Ruoxu, known as the Pill King, had unparalleled alchemy skills in the whole Yun State. Thus, the Zhonghang Sect also regarded him as an honored guest. The Nn family could not afford to offend him.

    "Elder Nn, there is no need for you to see us off. I will leave now."

    As they reached the entrance, Li Ruoxu smiled and said, while Nn De had a constipated expression on his face.

    Today, Li Ruoxu came to Nn family to confront them. He imed to be visiting, but he brought Wen Xing with him. Wen Xing was the one who kidnapped Nn family women and stole their treasures. The Nn family had recently canceled the reward for him.

    Nn Xiong couldn''t do anything. Even the Soul Changing Ancestor of the Zhonghang Sect had to treat Li Ruoxu respectfully, hoping that Li Ruoxu could produce the required elixirs for Soul Changing.

    "Since Senior Li has given the order, Nn De will no longer see you off. If you have time in the future, please feel wee to visit the Nn family."

    "Haha, I will definitelye, I will definitelye."

    Li Ruoxuughed loudly, exchanged pleasantries for a moment, and then left with Wen Xing.

    "How about it? Did you vent enough anger today?"

    On the way, Li Ruoxu told Wen Xing that he was very kind to him. Normally, Nn family is also strong. Nn De is likely to break through his Nascent Soul cultivation and be an influential elder of Zhonghang Sect. He wouldn''t easily offend such a person. But for Wen Xing, he went to their door to annoy them, even if Nn family was a little stronger, they would still end up fighting today.

    "I amfortable, but Yan''er still hasn''t been found, and there is still no news about the Five Elements Golden Fruit. The stigma on me hasn''t been cleared."

    "I really don''t know what else to do. I have done what I could do and even offered a reward."

    Li Ruoxu said that they had been looking for Nn Yan for a long time. Li Ruoxu even asked many friends to help, but they still had no news.

    In fact, they all knew in their hearts that Nn Yan was in great danger. Despite being a genius of the Nn family, she had no experience in the martial world. In the eyes of bandits, she was an easy target. After killing her, they could just throw her into a valley and no one would find her.

    "I know I am causing trouble for Master. Let''s just let this matter go and turn the page."

    Wen Xing said. He understood Li Ruoxu''s mindset very well. Although Li Ruoxu always helped him when he asked for it, he couldn''t take advantage of it too much. It was time to stop.

    "That''s good then. Let''s settle the grievances in Yunzhong City and go back to practice. You should also get married to Lian''er."

    Li Ruoxu said. This time, he brought Wen Xing back to Yunzhong City to settle Wen Xing'' worldly desires and find closure to their past. Wen Xing agreed that afterpleting these tasks, he would marry Li Ruoxu''s daughter, Li Lian''er, and inherit Li Ruoxu''s legacy.

    "The master said that once the disciple finishes a few small tasks, they will leave with the master."

    "What tasks?"

    "There are a few old friends who live in Yunzhong Mountain Range, and I want to visit them."

    "Is it your old love interests again?"

    "Master, a wise person never looks back, those women are just shallow and vain. When I was in Yunzhong City, I had a few close friends who took care of me. Now that I have some abilities, I naturally want to repay them."

    Wen Xing said, realizing he had misunderstood him. He was not going to find his old love interests, he knew Li Ruoxu''s limits and would never do something foolish like that.

    He also had a few friends who never looked down on him when he was weak. Now that many years have passed, he wanted to visit and support them, as they might be useful in the future.

    "Okay, do you want me to apany you?"

    "No need, Yunzhong Mountain Range doesn''t have anyone in the Golden Core Period. Even an average Building Foundation cultivator won''t be a match for me."

    Wen Xing said. The spiritual veins in the Yunzhong Mountain Range are not very high. Those in the Golden Core Period don''t bother to live there. They mostly gather in Yunzhong City or outside the city. It''s a gathering ce for those in the Building Foundation and Qi Refining stages. With his current ability, as long as he doesn''t encounter multiplete-stage Building Foundation cultivators attacking him, he''ll be fine.

    "Okay, I''ll wait for you in Yunzhong City. You have two days."

    Li Ruoxu nodded. He gave Wen Xing a lot of treasures and pills. Among the Building Foundation Period cultivators, there weren''t many who could threaten him.

    The two of them parted ways. Li Ruoxu returned to Yunzhong City, while Wen Xing flew towards the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Along the way, he saw many cultivator caves.

    Wen Xing looked at these caves and thought about his dream of upying a piece ofnd here and marrying multiple wives to live a simple life.

    "I can''t go back anymore."

    Wen Xing sighed at the end. The past is like smoke, he can''t go back. He surpassed Li Ruoxu, but not without a price. For example, his average appearance and his daughter with a strong temper will be his only woman in the future.

    For the sake of one tree, he has given up the entire forest.

    Wen Xing had already contacted his friend a few days ago. They had drinks in Yunzhong City and made ns for Wen Xing to visit their home. He also roughly knew the location.

    "Brother Zhou, Brother Zhou, I''m here!"

    After a while, Wen Xing came to a valley and called out loudly.

    In no time, ripples appeared in the valley, and a halo appeared out of thin air. A big man walked out from it.

    "Brother Wen, you''ve finallye. Come in quickly!"

    "Haha, of course I woulde as promised. Brother Zhou, looks like you''re living a good life."

    Wen Xing walked into the valley, and the scenery here waspletely different from the outside. The whole valley was well-maintained, with patches of flowers and grass on the slopes. There were groups of bees collecting nectar, and on the t ground of the valley, there were some spiritual rice paddies, but not many. More of them were lower-grade spiritual herbs.

    This is how independent cultivators at the bottom level are. They try their best to make money and save money. They eat their own spiritual rice, and they sell the spiritual herbs and honey to exchange for resources. If it''s still not enough, they have to go out and work hard to earn money.

    "These things are not worth much. It''s better for Brother Wen to refine a furnace of pill. By the way, Brother Wen, can you help me get a Building Foundation Pill? The ones in Yunzhong City are too expensive. I''m already fifty-two years old this year. If I don''t make a breakthrough soon, I''m afraid I won''t have a chance."

    "The Building Foundation Pill is a second-grade top-quality elixir. I can''t refine it yet, and I don''t want to trouble my master too much. But I promise to help you with this matter. I''ll ask my senior martial brother for helpter, but you have to pay for the cost."

    Wen Xing said that he was quite skilled at alchemy, but he hadn''t reached the level of refining high-grade pills yet. Li Ruoxu had more than one apprentice, including an older one.

    "I''m really grateful to Brother Wen. Mom, please bring out the food and fetch the good wine that I''ve hidden."

    The independent cultivator with the surname Zhou was overjoyed when he heard this and shouted loudly inside the house. Soon, someone responded.

    Outside the house, there was a stone table. A woman brought out a sumptuous meal, and Zhou, the independent cultivator, also took out his treasured spirit wine. It wasn''t a top-quality spirit wine, but it was still quite delicious.

    Wen Xing was very down-to-earth, and the two of them sat down to eat and drink while reminiscing about their past experiences in Yunzhong City. It was truly unbelievable that an independent cultivator like Zhou managed to survive the pursuit of the Nn family and even achieved the Foundation Building stage. It was something that made others incredibly jealous.

    This mealsted for more than four hours. Wen Xing used magic to dispel the alcohol in his body, bid farewell, and mentioned that he had other friends to visit.

    Zhou, the independent cultivator, didn''t insist on keeping Wen Xing, but instead apanied him to the valley''s exit. Wen Xing left behind a storage bag as a gift for Zhou.

    With Zhou watching reluctantly, Wen Xing mounted his flying sword and flew away. After a while, he arrived at a cave more than ten miles away.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Wen Xing called out the names of a few friends, but all he received in return was a cold response.

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57

    Full-time assassins and part-time assassins arepletely different. There are many part-time assassins in Yunzhong City. They may work as assistants in a shop or as independent cultivators selling goods by the roadside. They may take on temporary assassination jobs from time to time.

    The techniques and secrets practiced by full-time assassins are specifically designed for assassination. They emphasize secrecy and quickness, aiming for a single fatal blow.

    Cao Yang is one of the most powerful assassins in the Dark Night Organization at the Building Foundation Period level. The targets he has killed at this level are no lower than twenty. He is extremely skilled in assassination techniques.

    He knew that Wen Xing had obtained some valuable treasures, so he specifically came here to hide and wait. As soon as he made a move, he gave it his all.

    Wen Xing reacted very quickly, but he was still a step too slow. Seeing the cold light approaching, he wanted to dodge, but the cold light appeared right in front of his throat.

    "Thunk"

    At the moment when the dagger was about to touch his throat, a red light burst out from Wen Xing, forming a shield. Although the dagger pierced through the shield, it had already lost a major part of its force and its angle was off, causing the de to cut Wen Xing''s neck.

    "Mountain Shaking Fist"

    Wen Xing instinctively used a punching technique and hit the assassin. With the force, Wen Xing stepped back several steps and took out a bag of powder from the storage bag. He applied it on his neck.By this time, his neck was bleeding profusely, but as soon as he applied the powder, the bleeding immediately decreased. The assassin, Cao Yang, had disappeared by now.

    "Impressive stealth technique."

    Wen Xing expanded his awareness and searched every inch of his surroundings, but he couldn''t find the assassin''s hiding ce. He took a sharp breath, knowing he had encountered a tough opponent.

    Wen Xing didn''t dare to move, not even to reach for his weapon. He was afraid that any movement would reveal a weakness and invite the assassin''s deadly strike.

    Time seemed to freeze here, every minute and second passing with great difficulty. Wen Xing was already mentally activating the storage bag but dared not move. He anxiously observed everything around him.

    "Puff."

    After a moment, the assassin, Cao Yang,unched another attack. Suddenly, a fiery dragon appeared in the air and spewed towards Wen Xing. Wen Xing'' expression changed drastically, and he swiftly moved to the left.

    "Swish."

    And a cold light appeared on his right side, cutting his arm. Taking this opportunity, he took out his flying sword and shield. With a surge of spiritual power, the shield split into four and protected him from all sides.

    "Friend, I wonder who I, Wen, have offended to make you use such a deadly move against me."

    Wen Xing breathed a sigh of relief when he saw the shield protecting him. He spoke to the empty surroundings, but there was no response at all.

    "Friend, we all seek wealth. How about we make a deal? I, Wen, will pay to buy my life, and you can name the price."

    "How about 30,000 spirit stones?"

    "50,000?"

    "100,000?"

    Wen Xing saw the other party remain silent and gradually increasing the price. 100,000 was indeed not a small sum. With just an ordinary ie of a Building Foundation cultivator in a year, without any industry or skills in Pills, Talismans, Items, and Formations, they would only have a few thousand spirit stones at most.

    Cao Yang, hidden in the darkness, didn''t move at all. He was not swayed by Wen Xing'' offered price. He was a professional assassin, trained to resist these kinds of temptations. If his will could be easily shaken, he would already be dead and not an excellent assassin of the Dark Night Organization.

    Cao Yang was like a hunting cheetah, waiting for his prey to make a mistake. If they were not careful, it would be a weakness in his eyes.

    Wen Xing was furious when he realized that the assassin was not moved by his threats. In his storage bag, he had many treasures. This was the reason he told Li Ruoxu before that he was not afraid of theter stages of building foundations. But now, he had all these treasures and no chance to use them. He didn''t know where the enemy was, but he could feel the intense desire to kill, which made him too scared to make any sudden movements.

    Time slowly passed, and the wound on his neck had already scabbed over. The Pill King Li Ruoxu''s medicine was not just a reputation. But the wound on his arm was still bleeding, drop by drop, forming a small puddle on the ground. Wen Xing felt his entire arm going numb.

    "Let''s go all in."

    Realizing that staying in this stalemate would only be more harmful to himself, Wen Xing suddenly became determined. He connected his mind to his storage bag and quickly took out dozens of first level premium spiritual talismans. He activated them in all directions.

    "Boom!"

    The different types of spiritual talismans had various attack methods. At this moment, Cao Yang also made his move. He used a golden light talisman to cover his own figure, concealing his presence as he silently approached Wen Xing.

    "Bang!"

    His dagger pierced through Wen Xing'' shield and then plunged into his chest.

    "Seeded"

    Cao Yang felt happy in his heart, the feeling of the dagger piercing into the flesh was unmistakable.

    However, in the next second, a scary feeling rose in Cao Yang''s heart. His face changed drastically, and he quickly activated his spiritual power, wanting to retreat as fast as possible.

    But it was toote. Wen Xing let out a sinisterugh and shouted, "Heartbreaking Thunder Talisman!"

    "Boom"

    The second-grade high-quality Heartbreaking Thunder Talisman hit Cao Yang solidly. He flew out like a cannonball and crashed heavily on the ground, covering a distance of seventy to eighty meters.

    However, at the moment ofnding, Cao Yang quickly stood up, then dashed straight towards a distant ce.

    "You can''t run!"

    Enduring the intense pain, Wen Xing activated his flying sword. With one strike, the sword emitted a beam of light, directly cutting Cao Yang down from the air.

    "Puff"

    Cao Yang spat out a mouthful of fresh blood. He was heavily injured by the Heartbreaking Thunder Talisman. Although he suppressed his injuries with a secret technique, the sword strikepletely overwhelmed him. He felt an intense chill all over his body, just like the winter when he was seven years old.

    That year, his father suffered serious injuries and the family lost their source of ie. His mother had to go out and work, leaving him alone at home to take care of his father. However, the weather changed suddenly; clear skies turned into a snowfall. By the time his mother returned, he was almost frozen to death. The feeling of coldness was something he would remember for the rest of his life.

    "Who are you?"

    Wen Xing approached Cao Yang and removed the mask from his face. Wen Xing didn''t recognize him.

    At this point, Cao Yang was exhaling more than inhaling, and when he tried to speak, only dark blood came out.

    "With an alchemist present, you can''t die."

    Wen Xing sneered and took out a pill from his storage bag. He stuffed it into Cao Yang''s mouth and used a little spiritual energy to guide the pill into his stomach.

    "This pill is called the Five Elements Revitalizing Pill, a high-grade third-tier pill worth eighty thousand spirit stones. You can''t even die if you wanted to. Consider yourself lucky."

    Wen Xing said to Cao Yang that he didn''t know who the assassin was, but he knew that this person was definitely a skilled assassin. He wanted to capture him and interrogate him slowly to find out the real culprit behind the scenes. Since there is an enemy, they must eliminate himpletely and not leave any future troubles.

    Cao Yang''s wounds began to stabilize, and he looked at Wen Xing''s chest in disbelief. He wondered how a mere Building Foundation Period could injure his heart and still survive. As far as he knew, even with a golden core, a broken heart wouldn''t hold up for long.

    Wen Xing followed Cao Yang''s gaze to his own chest, smiled, and then used magic to pull out the dagger. Without the dagger, there was no gushing blood, but instead, a white light appeared. Within the white light, Wen Xing''s wound quickly healed.

    "You''ve never seen it before, right? I haven''t seen it either. My master said the pill in my body is called the Eternal Life Pill, a sixth-grade pill. As long as I''m not dismembered, I won''t die. Even Nascent Soul Ancestors from Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect came to beg for this pill, but my master didn''t give it to them."

    Wen Xing smiled and said that Li Ruoxu was really willing to go all out for him. This sixth-grade pill''s value cannot be estimated with spirit stones anymore. Even the Nascent Soul stage would be extremely envious of it, but he kept it on himself.

    "Hehe..."

    Cao Yang had a desperate look on his face. Even if Wen Xing had a big backing, he would still be doomed today. But who let him be backed by Pill King Li Ruoxu? This kind of pill shouldn''t have appeared in the hands of someone in the Building Foundation Period.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Now all he could do was to sacrifice himself to protect his wife and children. As long as he died, the Dark Night Organization wouldn''t trouble his family, and Wen Xing wouldn''t know his identity either.

    "Dying is not that easy."

    Cao Yang sneered and knew that the assassin wanted to shatter his meridians andmit suicide. But he was heavily injured and couldn''t mobilize any spiritual power. Although Cao Yang was reassured, he personally sealed off his dantian meridians.

    After resting for a while, the wounds on Cao Yang''s body were no longer visible. Although they hadn''tpletely healed, they were much better. He picked up Cao Yang and flew towards Yunzhong City.

    Wen Xing was now grateful that there was only one assassin. If there was another person, he might have been in trouble.

    The distance from here to Yunzhong City was not far, less than an hour. Wen Xing arrived outside Yunzhong City carrying this blood-stained person. Naturally, the city guards didn''t let him in, and Cao Yang didn''t forcefully enter either. Even if the two major factions gave face to his master, they couldn''t break the rules on the surface. He had already sent a message talisman, and Li Ruoxu woulde out.

    Soon, Li Ruoxu came out. Wen Xing immediately said, "Master, your disciple was attacked and luckily captured the assassin. Please make a decision for your disciple."

    Wen Xing'' tearful voice made Li Ruoxu both distressed and annoyed. This disciple really knew how to cause trouble. But when Li Ruoxu scanned the assassin with his divine sense, he frowned.

    Wen Xing also noticed Li Ruoxu''s expression and immediately realized something was wrong. He quickly lifted the assassin and was stunned. The assassin was already dead.

    "How is this possible? I gave him a Five Spirit Revival Pill and sealed his meridians."

    Wen Xing shouted, how could he have died? Was the pill given to him for nothing? His master couldn''t possibly give him counterfeit goods, right?

    "He is a man."

    Li Ruoxu sighed and reached out to uncover the assassin''s clothes, revealing a horrifyingly injured abdomen. The internal organs in the abdomen were all crushed.

    "Um, um..."

    Wen Xing instantly understood what had happened. His Heartbreaking Thunder Talisman had hit the assassin''s abdomen, but it didn''tpletely crush the internal organs. During the process of returning, the assassin himself reached into the wound in his abdomen and crushed the internal organs. Throughout the entire process, he didn''t make a sound.

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58

    Yunzhong City, South City

    Lin Jiang knocked on a door, and Zhang Ruifang weed him inside. Zhang Ruifang saw Lin Jiang''s expression and instantly felt a sense of sadness.

    "It seems like you already guessed the oue."

    "Yes, can you do me a favor?"

    "No, I know what you want to do. If I help, everything we did before will be a waste."

    Lin Jiang said that he knew Zhang Ruifang wanted him to help with collecting bodies, to collect Cao Yang''s body.

    Today, Lin Jiang received news at the big market that Wen Xing, a disciple of Pill King Li Ruoxu, was attacked in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Wen Xing got injured but managed to kill the assassin, who turned out to be Cao Yang.

    A few days ago, Lin Jiang moved Zhang Ruifang and her daughter to South City. This way, they wouldn''t appear to have any connection, at most just regr neighbors. If Lin Jiang helps collect the body, the suspicion will increase.

    "I can''t bear to let him remain exposed in the wilderness.""There''s a dedicated body collection team in the city. I''ll keep an eye on it for you. We can collect his body in a few months. It''s too risky to go now; everyone will die."

    Lin Jiang exined that many people die daily in Yunzhong City. Outside the city, there''s a mass grave where unidentified bodies are left. Cao Yang''s assassination of Wen Xing is a big deal, making it easier to investigateter.

    "I understand. Thank you so much."

    "No, it''s not necessary. Cao Yang helped me, so this is paying him back."

    Lin Jiang said that he was sure that the Liao family had all been killed by Cao Yang. After Jiang Jingzhong disappeared for half a month, he broke into their house and found it in a mess, with bloodstains and signs of a fight, but no bodies. They must have destroyed the bodies to erase all evidence.

    It was true that Lin Jiang owed Cao Yang for this matter. If it hadn''t been for Cao Yang''s reminder, Lin Jiang would have been in great danger. Once the Liao family got involved, it was uncertain whether they would live or die.

    "I still owe you a favor."

    "You can take your time repaying it. I''ve bought you three months'' worth of supplies. Stay home during these three months and don''t go out. If you need anything, send me a Sound Passing Talisman. Let''s wait for this storm to pass first."

    "I know you need to be careful too. You can''t use your beast pet in the city. Watch out for the Dark Night Organization."

    "Your own organization is targeting you too?"

    Lin Jiang frowned. He shouldn''t just be worried about Wen Xing seeking revenge. Why would he also need to be wary of the Dark Night Organization?

    "I am married to Cao Yang, and we both work as assassins. After I gave birth to our child, I didn''t want to be an assassin anymore. I wanted to leave the Dark Night Organization. But they won''t let me go. Every assassin is trained at a high cost and they sell their lives to the organization. They can only stop after death. So the Dark Night Organization won''t spare me. They might even take away my child, if they have the Spiritual Root, to be the next generation assassin."

    "Why did you join such a heartless organization?"

    Lin Jiang asked. Isn''t the Dark Night Organization really unfair? Capitalists cry when they see it. They spend money to train assassins, who work until they die. They even take the assassins'' children as their own. No capitalists canpare to them.

    It is really, really dark.

    Who would join such a dangerous organization if they had another choice? After Cao Yang''s mother died, their property was taken away by someone, and his father died as a result. He had nowhere to go. After my brother died, I still had a family, but they were like fierce tigers, wanting to devour me.

    My family has many members, and all the resources are provided to those with good talent for cultivation. For every spirit stone I earn, they take one away. And in the end, they even wanted to sell me, just because I have a Spiritual Root and they wanted me to marry another cultivator, so we can have a child with Spiritual Root.

    I wanted to find my brother and give him a proper burial, but they didn''t agree. They were afraid I would die and they would lose money. When we joined the Dark Night Organization, we already knew the consequences, but we had no choice.

    "I''m sorry."

    "Why are you apologizing? It has nothing to do with you."

    "It reminded you of painful memories."

    "It''s all in the past. Maybe a few years ago I would have been sad and angry, but now I have a child, and there is hope. You are not a parent, so you wouldn''t understand this feeling."

    "I really don''t understand, so for the sake of your child, live a good life. With your abilities, avoid this trouble, go to a remote ce away from the big city, enough to ensure a worry-free life for you and your child forever."

    Lin Jiang said. In Yunzhong City, the Building Foundation Period doesn''t mean much. But if you go to a remote ce, like where the Lin family used to be, the Building Foundation Period is considered quite skilled. You can upy a spiritual mountain area, run it well, and be wealthy. You may not be extremely rich, but you won''t have to worry about food and drink for your whole life.

    "First, let''s survive. The Dark Night Organization is very dangerous, there are powerful people backing them."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang said, feeling very upset. Not only did he hear about Zhang Ruifang''s tragic past, but he also got involved in this matter and might encounter powerful enemies.

    This was something Lin Jiang didn''t want to happen. He just wanted to quietly cultivate and not offend anyone.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Is anyone there?"

    In Lin Jiang''s residence in West City, someone knocked on the door, coincidentally, Lin Jiang had just returned from the big market.

    "Oh, it''s you."

    "Mr. Wen."

    Lin Jiang saw Wen Xing standing at the doorstep of his home, trying hard to squeeze a smile and spoke.

    "Do you live here?"

    "Yes, sir."

    "Do you know who lives next door?"

    "I know, a family of three."

    "Do you know where they are now?"

    "I don''t know, I''m not very familiar with them, just a nodding acquaintance. We only meet once every three to five days. May I ask if there''s something you need, sir?"

    "Why do I feel like you''re lying to me?"

    Wen Xing said, he didn''t believe such a coincidence existed. The spiritual talisman vendor he met at the market happened to live next to the assassin who wanted to kill him.

    "Senior, we have no grievances or disputes. Why would I deceive you? There''s no benefit to it either."

    "That''s true. So, tell me, what do they usually do?"

    "How would I know? We onlye across each other every few days. All I know is that the woman next door often goes to the market to buy groceries. She''s married, so I can''t just start a conversation with her."

    "Really?"

    Wen Xing felt a bit annoyed. How did he get the feeling that this person was mocking him? He used to enjoy doing that sort of thing himself.

    "Senior, if there''s nothing else, I''ll go back first. I''m hungry and need to cook."

    Lin Jiang gestured with the things in his hand. He helped Zhang Ruifang with shopping, and if he didn''t bring something back home, it would seem strange.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Wen Xing nced over and was about to release Lin Jiang when suddenly, he heard Li Ruoxu''s voice in his ear, saying, "Be careful, my disciple. This person has disguised themselves."

    "Wait!"

    Upon hearing that, Wen Xing immediately shouted aloud.

    "Senior, is there something else?"

    "Why don''t you dare to show your true identity?"

    "Senior, what does that mean? I don''t understand."

    "You''re still pretending to be ignorant. Just because you disguised yourself, it doesn''t mean I don''t know. You''re an assassin too, aren''t you?"

    "What does it have to do with me disguising myself? Are you saying I''m an assassin just because you say so? Do you have any evidence?"

    "Hmph, what evidence do I need?"

    Wen Xing angrily said that this time in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, he was almost killed when he was stabbed. If it wasn''t for Li Ruoxu giving him a treasure, he would be dead now.

    So he will never let go of this matter easily, even if it means offending someone. What does it matter to offend an independent cultivator?

    "You..."

    Lin Jiang felt extremely unhappy seeing Wen Xing being so domineering. He stared at him coldly. If Wen Xing wanted to make a move, Lin Jiang was ready to fight back. Even without Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, he could still protect himself in front of the Building Foundation Period.

    "Little brother, it''s me, Li Ruoxu. How about giving me some face?"

    At this moment, Li Ruoxu''s voice appeared in their ears. Lin Jiang felt a very powerful spiritual sense locking onto him, making him extremely terrified. Just a spiritual sense, and Lin Jiang felt overwhelmed.

    "Senior Pill King, may I ask for your guidance?"

    Lin Jiang held back the urge to kneel and worship, even if the other party was a Pill King, he didn''t want to submit.

    "Let my disciple take a look at your true identity, to avoid conflicts. If we fight, you might suffer."

    Li Ruoxu spoke and said that he wasn''t present, but he was teaching Wen Xing how to do things. In Yunzhong City, don''t be so stubborn, you need to be skillful in your work.

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang agreed.

    Afterward, Lin Jiang used magic to restore his original appearance. He wasn''t afraid if Wen Xing recognized him because when they first met, he was called Lin Yu and had also changed his appearance. Now, he had changed back to looking like Lin Jiang. If Zhang Ruifang was here, she would be able to recognize him.

    "You''re so young, no wonder you needed to change your appearance."

    Wen Xing looked at Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang still looked like he was seventeen years old, appearing quite youthful. Considering Lin Jiang''s cultivation level of Qi Refining at the ninth level, Wen Xing believed there was a reason for Lin Jiang to change his appearance.

    "I offended someone outside and had to change my appearance. I can''t show my true face to people. I hope you understand, senior."

    "Let him go, he''s not from the Dark Night."

    Li Ruoxu''s voice came again. In just a moment, he had already drawn Lin Jiang''s appearance. He was apanied by high-level members of Yunzhong City, who had confirmed that Lin Jiang was not with the Dark Night Organization.

    "You can go now."

    "Thank you, senior."

    Lin Jiang bowed and then walked into his own house, closed the door, and activated the protective barrier. Lin Jiang looked very gloomy.

    "Pill King Li Ruoxu, Wen Xing, I have remembered this debt. Although my cultivation is not as good as yours now, I will definitelye to your grave to dance a hundred or thousand yearster."

    Lin Jiang cursed in his heart. Being stopped in the street and forced to restore his appearance was the most humiliating thing, which most people would consider a great shame. Especially for Lin Jiang, he might not be a match now, but a hundred or thousand yearster, he would definitely reim his dignity.

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59

    Yunzhong City''s West City

    After venting his anger, Lin Jiang slowly calmed down. Without strength, being angry would only be impotent rage.

    "The first test of Wen Xing and Li Ruoxu have already passed, so they won''t suspect me again in the short term, unless there is solid evidence. The second test is from the Dark Night Organization."

    "The Dark Night Organization is not easily fooled. The key is that they don''t need evidence, they will take action as long as they have a feeling, but I don''t know what kind of people the other side will send."

    Lin Jiang carefully analyzed that Wen Xing, for now, could be temporarily ignored as he was already safe. But the Dark Night Organization is a tricky person who won''t listen to your nonsense.

    Lin Jiang is now worried that the Dark Night Organization will send experts. ording to Zhang Ruifang, the Dark Night is very powerful, with several powerful leaders.

    "The powerful leaders are not that worthless. Using them to deal with someone at a lower level like Qi Refining Period is not usible. Besides, there are two major factions watching. They don''t have the ability to show themselves at will. If I really have bad luck, what else can I do?"

    In the end, Lin Jiangforted himself. If he really had such bad luck, what could he do? He can''t win in a fight, and he can''t run away.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдIn a small tea stall in West City, Han Chunming is very annoyed. he has already drunk a belly full of tea, but the target hasn''te out yet.

    "Damn it, is this kid really cut out for business? Still noting out sote."

    Han Chunming muttered in his heart. Across from him lives an independent cultivator named Lin Yang, who is his target for this mission. But he''s not here to kill, he''s here to investigate.

    Lin Yang''s neighbors on both sides are people from their Dark Night group. The Liao family on the left suddenly disappeared, and it''s unclear if they are alive or dead. The organization is very angry, and it''s better if they are dead rather than having escaped. If they are caught, they will be killed.

    On his right side, there is a couple who are also part of their organization. The man is named Cao Yang and he is the best assassin of the Dark Night Organization in the past twenty years. He has never failed once since he entered the Qi Refining Period. However, he has failed now.

    His wife is also a highly skilled assassin in the organization, ranked in the top ten among Cao Yang''s peers. After Cao Yang''s death, she also disappeared.

    The organization is deeply disappointed and disgusted by deserters. It''s not easy to train an assassin, it takes a lot of time, energy, and spirit stones. If an assassin doesn''t bring profit to the organization, how can it survive and not go into debt?

    Moreover, if everyone starts deserting like them, the organization cannot continue to exist. The organization never shows mercy to traitors who flee.

    Both neighbors from the left and right side of Lin Yang have encountered trouble, so it''s necessary to investigate. Lin Yang, who is in the midst of the y, has caught the organization''s attention and he is specially sent to investigate.

    Han Chunming has been observing for several days and he is burning with anger. In his opinion, Lin Yang is just a homebody who rarely goes out, except to sell a few spiritual talismans. He never leaves his house, making it impossible for Han Chunming to act.

    "Finally came out."

    Han Chunming sees the array formation at the target residence flickering, and his heart stirs. He casually throws a few spiritual beads and quickly arrives at the target residence.

    "Don''t move."

    As soon as Lin Jiang stepped out, someone appeared beside him. Lin Jiang felt something sharp poking at his waist, so he chose to stay still for the sake of his safety.

    "Who is this taoist friend? Kidnapping someone in Yunzhong City is a capital offense."

    "Stop talking, go in."

    "Okay, be careful not to hurt my waist."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then returned to the door once again. Han Chunming followed him and closed the door, trapping Lin Jiang inside the formation.

    "Taoist friend, if you''re robbing for money, you can take my storage bag. If you''re robbing for pleasure, I''m not good-looking, so take these spirit stones and head towards Spring Coming Tower on the left or Baihua Tower on the right. The fairy inside is beautiful and charming."

    "You, you..."

    Han Chunming couldn''t help butugh. Who is this person? It''s a pity that he had a mission toplete, otherwise he would have loved to discuss with this taoist friend whether the fairy in Spring Coming Tower was charming or the one in Baihua Tower was tender.

    "Why, isn''t the taoist friend here to steal money?"

    "How many spirit stones can you have as a Qi Refining Period cultivator? Stop talking nonsense, I ask, you answer. Once I get the answer I want, I''ll let you go. If you try to be clever, I''ll take your life."

    Han Chunming nced at Lin Jiang and paused for two seconds on his storage bag. It''s better to take care of business first, and then it''s not toote to steal money. After all, it''s all his anyway.

    "Ask me anything, I will definitely tell you everything."

    "Does the person next to you know where to go?"

    "Is it the left, right, or back?"

    "Let''s start with the left side."

    "You''re asking about Liao and his family, right? I don''t know either. Hisndlord has been urging him for a long time, but he never showed up. Eventually, they broke in, but couldn''t find him. I guess he couldn''t afford to rent the house, so he ran away."

    "He ran away?"

    "I''m not very sure, the neighborndlord said angrily that he didn''t receive the rent, so he couldn''t support his three wives, eight mistresses, eighteen children, and more than twenty..."

    "Stop, what a mess."

    Han Chunming got annoyed, I asked you about the neighbor''s whereabouts, why are you talking about thendlord? Nine out of tenndlords in Yunzhong City are involved with the two major sects, and we can''t afford to mess with them.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Alright, I won''t say anymore. Do you have any other questions?"

    "What about your right neighbor?"

    "I don''t know."

    "You''ve been neighbors for so many years, and you don''t know anything?"

    "Truly don''t know, I stay indoors every day."

    "If you don''t go out, what do you do at home?"

    "Eat, sleep, y with beans"

    "y with beans? What is this? Just be honest with me"

    "I''ve been honest, haven''t I? I say whatever you say, I really don''t know where the neighbors went, it''s not my business, they didn''t give me any money either"

    "Damn it, such a waste"

    Han Chunming got furious, he waited for several days, and this is the waste he waited for?

    "Senior, have you finished asking?"

    "Yes, I''m done. Hand over the storage bag."

    "Great, but can I ask for your help?"

    "Kid, if you want me to spare you, stop the nonsense. Heh, heh, I''m a ruthless killer"

    "No, I want to borrow something from you."

    "Haha, you''re so silly. What can I possibly lend you?"

    "I want to borrow your reputation. That way, others will know I''m not easy to bully. Don''t think you can juste and bully me because I''m a person."

    Lin Jiang replied honestly but his hands were not honest. Before finishing his sentence, Lin Jiang had already taken action.

    With a thought, the Spirit Beast Bag opened, and Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao turned into a white light, rushing towards the man in front of them. Meanwhile, Lin Jiang himself threw a palm strike, using the Explosive Element Technique. The huge palm imprint mmed towards the opponent.

    Han Chunming''s face changed dramatically. The dagger in his hand directly stabbed forward, but halfway through, he felt a sharp pain and the dagger fell out.

    "Boom"

    The palm imprint sted the opponent away, sticking him to the wall. It was hard to peel him off. Meanwhile, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao moved in for the kill, taking a bite and leaving a hole.

    Han Chunming never expected that a mere Qi Refining Period cultivator could unleash a palm imprint with a strength not inferior to someone in the early stages of Building Foundation. Furthermore, there were also two mid-stage second rank beast pets.

    "I said, I''m not someone to be bullied. If you don''t believe me, let me show you."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, cut off his head directly, and ced it right in the center of his house. It''s quite a coincidence that he was moving today. The name Lin Yang can no longer be used, so he has rented a new house under a different name.

    "What a pity, there''s still six months'' rent left for this house."

    Finally, Lin Jiang left with a heavy heart. Another six months'' rent wasted, and those were all precious spirit stones. The Dark Night Organization is really the worst.

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60

    "Boom!"

    With a forceful punch from Lin Jiang, a big hole appeared in the surrounding wall. Both yards of the houses merged together, making it look much more spacious. Lin Jiang walked out through the hole, and Cao Ying, Zhang Ruifang''s daughter, saw him. She smiled and opened her arms, wanting a hug. She really likes Lin Jiang, the uncle who always brings her delicious treats whenever he visits.

    Lin Jiang effortlessly picked up Cao Ying, yed with her for a while, and gave her some jerky to nibble on. Zhang Ruifang also came out from the room.

    "Are you really nning to stay indoors for a whole year?"

    Zhang Ruifang asked Lin Jiang, who came to her next door yesterday, telling her that he won''t be going out for the next year, he wants to hide first and then decide.

    Zhang Ruifang found it somewhat unbelievable, is there really someone who can stay at home for a whole year like in the Qi Refining Period?

    "Not going out, it''s too dangerous outside. Let''s hide for a year first, we don''t have to worry about food and drink, it doesn''t matter."

    "What about your ie?"

    "It''s alright, I can still make money by drawing talismans. I have paid the rent for three years. I will make ns after one year."Lin Jiang said, it''s too dangerous outside, even the Dark Night Organization hase looking for him. He can only endure and wait, endurance is the way of a king.

    As for ie, Lin Jiang thinks it doesn''t matter. His annual expenses are just a bit over 20,000. If he saves a little, doesn''t use the Spirit Gathering Formation, and takes fewer elixirs, several thousand spirit stones are enough. His savings canst him for a few more years.

    Besides, he has bought arge amount of talisman paper and talisman paint. He can continue to draw spiritual talismans and sell them slowlyter on. If things don''t work out, he can sell them to the shops. At worst, he''ll make a little profit, he won''t go bankrupt or starve to death.

    "I''m sorry for involving you."

    "No need to say that, if you say it, it will count as paying back Cao Yang, don''t go out anymore, call me if you need anything, the kids can visit each other, give them more space to y."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I know, I won''t go out."

    Zhang Ruifang said. Now it''s very dangerous outside, for the sake of the children, she won''t go out either.

    Lin Jiang nodded, didn''t say anything else, put the child down, tidied up some bricks, then went home.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Bird, I want to ride a bird, fly бдбдбдбд"

    Half a yearter, Cao Ying chased Big Bird and Small Bird all over the yard, Big Bird and Small Bird ran ahead, she chased after them, and when she caught them, she climbed onto the back of the bird, pretended to be riding a horse.

    "Chirp chirp бдбдбд"

    This time, Cao Ying caught Big Bird, it came to Lin Jiang''s doorstep, kept making noise, and looked quite dissatisfied, as if saying, "Hurry up and take care of the child, if you don''t, I''ll throw her down."

    "Here''s some jerky as a reward. Don''t bother me anymore."

    Without looking back, Lin Jiang threw a piece of jerky. Big Shadiao opened its mouth to catch, but Cao Ying also reached out her hand, trying to snatch it with her beak. Big Shadiao got scared and swallowed it in one gulp.

    Big Shadiao missed the old days when it couldn''t finish eating all the jerky and had a variety of other foods to add some vor. But for the past six months, its main food has been the Inedia Pill, and the jerky has be just a way to add some vor. Its quality of life has dramatically declined, it''s just too miserable.

    "Bad bird, not giving me meat to eat."

    Unable to get the jerky, Cao Ying got angry and tried to pluck Big Shadiao''s feathers. But second-tier monster''s feathers are not easy to pluck. She used all her strength, but it didn''t budge.

    "Cao Ying,e quickly, it''s time to learn to read."

    When Zhang Ruifang saw Cao Ying, she let out a loud roar like a lion. She knew her daughter well, at the age of just over three, it was the age when children can be quite stubborn and yful, and they can''t be disciplined yet because they are too little. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao would often get so angry that they would jump up and down.

    At first, Cao Ying was afraid that the big bird would hurt her. Butter, she found out that the big bird could understand people and knew that Lin Jiang had given strict orders not to harm Cao Ying. So, she became braver and even wanted to bring Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to her room to sleep together.

    Cao Ying would bother Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and Zhang Ruifang would bother Cao Ying. Even at such a young age, Cao Ying had to start reading and learning to recognize words. If she couldn''t do it, she would be punished and made to stand. So, sometimes the mother and daughter would have chaotic moments.

    "Big bird, run fast and take me to fly."

    As soon as Cao Ying heard Zhang Ruifang''s words, she became hairless and begged Big Shadiao.

    Big Shadiao raised his head and walked towards Zhang Ruifang with a disinterested stride. It''s impossible to take you flying, but I can take you home.

    "Big bird, I don''t want to go back."

    Cao Ying looked shocked. She grabbed Big Shadiao''s neck and shouted. She didn''t want to read, she didn''t want to go home, she wanted to y with the big bird.

    "Roll back to me."

    Zhang Ruifang walked forward a few steps, squeezed Cao Ying''s back clothes, and lifted her up directly.

    "Let my taoist friend taste the pastries I made today."

    Zhang Ruifang turned around and said to Big Shadiao, then took out three tes of pastries. One for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and one for Lin Jiang.

    Big Shadiao''s eyes lit up, and Small Shadiao also rushed over from the corner. The two brothers almost fought over the pastries.

    But they didn''t dare to eat Lin Jiang''s portion. The master-servant rtionship was clear. It was okay to snatch from each other, but snatching from the master was suicide.

    Lin Jiang took a te of pastries from Shadiao''s side and took a bite, giving all of them to Shadiao as a reward.

    "Hands that hold a sword are not suitable for holding a spat."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Zhang Ruifang''s cooking skills were unbeatable. Only Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao didn''t mind. Lin Jiang always felt that Zhang Ruifang''s hands were better suited for holding a sword.

    This was also why Lin Jiang never ate at Zhang Ruifang''s ce, even if she insisted multiple times. One, to avoid suspicion, and two, her skills were not good at all. He would rather cook for himself.

    "It''s been six months, I wonder how it''s like outside."

    Lin Jiang put down the writing brush and blew on the spiritual talisman in his hand. He didn''t have much nk talisman paper left. He had been diligent for the past six months, doing the work of eight months.

    The main reason was that there were no smartphones orputers in this world, and no various games. When idle, apart from practicing, all he could do was draw talismans. The work efficiency was remarkable, making it hard to feelzy.

    "Alright, let''s endure for another six months."

    After considering for a long time, Lin Jiang finally decided to endure for another six months. Compared to his life, what''s a bit of boredom and loneliness?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    One year passed quickly. Lin Jiang disguised himself, quietly went out, and first went to a store where he sold two hundred spiritual talismans to fill up his empty storage bag.

    After exchanging the money, Lin Jiang found a nice restaurant and had a big meal. Once satisfied with food and drink, it was time for something else.

    Don''t get the wrong idea, Lin Jiang just wanted to go to Spring Coming Tower or Baihua Tower to discuss the true meaning of life, important matters in the human world, and the principles of the heavens.

    It wasn''t until two dayster that Lin Jiang walked out of the gates of Spring Coming Tower, whileining, "The chairs in Spring Coming Tower are too hard, my back hurts. I''m nevering back."

    Lin Jiang took a stroll in South City Market. He couldn''t see many familiar faces anymore, but he didn''t have the intention to set up a stall for now. Lin Jiang''s distinctive features were too obvious. He only set up his stall for less than four hours a day, afraid of being recognized.

    After buying some meat and snacks, Lin Jiang returned home. He gave the meat to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. They had a tough year, not only did they not eat much good food, but they were also tortured by Cao Ying.

    The snacks are for Cao Ying. The little one has grown a lot in size and has be more lively. The closed environment hasn''t affected her personality at all.

    "What''s happening outside?"

    "I haven''t heard from any of our old acquaintances. I still haven''t found any news about them."

    "Are you still going to set up a stall?"

    "I''m not going for now. Let''s decrease the quantity for now. We''ll supply to the store in the future."

    "If you''re looking for a store, I know a few with a good reputation. They have been run by several generations. I can introduce them to you."

    "Sure, reliability is the most important. Half of the small stores in Yunzhong City are dishonest."

    Lin Jiang said, "The life of themon people in the cultivator world is extremely difficult. It forces them to resort to unscrupulous methods. I estimate that at least half of the stores are involved in illegal activities."

    "I know, the ones I''m rmending won''t be like that. They have a great reputation."

    "That''s okay, what about you, what will you do in the future?"

    "I want to go and look for Cao Yang."

    "I''ll take care of this, and give him a proper burial."

    "Thank you very much."

    "What will we do in the future?"

    Lin Jiang asked again, there were some things he couldn''t say face to face, it would seem selfish because he wanted to get rid of Zhang Ruifang and her daughter.

    He didn''t have any improper thoughts about them, he also promised Cao Yang, staying by his side would be a burden for Lin Jiang, and it might attract the attention of the Dark Night Organization again. Dark Night Organization already had one of their Building Foundation Period members die at his hands, maybe next time a more skilled person woulde.

    "I''m not sure, but I should leave Yunzhong City. The Dark Night Organization operates near Yunzhong City, and I don''t want to provoke them."

    Zhang Ruifang said, if she was found by the Dark Night Organization, it would be certain death for her, and her daughter would also suffer. They would be adopted by the Dark Night Organization, and if they didn''t have Spiritual Roots, they would be disposed of. Even if they had Spiritual Roots, their future would be filled with tragedy.

    "Hide for a while longer, I will gather some information for you. Once you decide where to go, I will take you there. The Aurora falcon is very fast, and it''s not easy for the Building foundation to catch up."

    Lin Jiang said, "The Aurora falcon is at the mid-stage of the second level. Unless someone has practiced a special body technique, within the Building Foundation Period, I''m afraid no one can catch up. The Aurora falcon is famous for its speed."

    "Alright, I''ll think about it."

    Zhang Ruifang said, with the help of the Aurora falcon, things would be much easier. With increased speed, she could quickly escape from Yunzhong City.

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61

    Lin Jiang chose to live a simple and secluded life. He stopped setting up stalls at the big market and reduced his outings. He only went out every few days to sell spiritual talismans at the Yui Pavilion store, and also bought resources for his cultivation and daily supplies.

    Zhang Ruifang introduced Lin Jiang to a small store called Yui Pavilion, which has been operating in Yunzhong City for five generations and has a good reputation.

    Lin Jiang''s spiritual talismans were of good quality. Yui Pavilion offered him the same price as their regr customers, which was about ten percent less than setting up stalls at the big market. Yui Pavilion focused on small profits and high sales, and Lin Jiang was happy with this arrangement. They cooperated several times and both parties were satisfied.

    Lin Jiang specially collected maps of Yun State and gave them to Zhang Ruifang. After studying them for several days, Zhang Ruifang decided to hide away in a ce called Ruiyang Mountain.

    Ruiyang Mountain is located next to one of the three major sects in Yun State, the Five Elements Sect. It used to be a high-level spiritual mountain, but for some reason, its spiritual veins shattered and it was abandoned by the Five Elements Sect. Now it has be a paradise for independent cultivators, somewhat simr to the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    About a hundred years ago, three golden core independent cultivators emerged from Ruiyang Mountain. They established a stronghold, recruited independent cultivators, and formed an organization simr to an independent cultivator alliance. They received protection from the Five Elements Sect, and in these years, many independent cultivators came to Ruiyang Mountain to seek a living.

    Zhang Ruifang has reached the stage of Building Foundation in her cultivation. If she goes to Ruiyang Mountain, she should receive some support and at least have a decent status. Unlike the chaos in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, Ruiyang Mountain is more suitable for her to settle down.

    Zhang Ruifang made a decision, and Lin Jiang supported her. They found time to repair the fence between their properties and rented out Zhang Ruifang''s house.

    "This is Cao Yang''s grave. When I came, only his skeleton was left."Before leaving, Lin Jiang took Zhang Ruifang and her mother to pay tribute to Cao Yang. It wasn''t difficult for him to find Cao Yang''s remains. He spent a few spirit stones and then cut down a huge tree to make a coffin to collect Cao Yang''s skeleton.

    But Lin Jiang has not told Zhang Ruifang how Cao Yang died. Cao Yang''s death was very heroic, almost like a suicide. Being able to perform such an act was greatly admired by the people of Yunzhong City. Cao Yang''s story is still being passed down today.

    "Yingzi, kneel down and kowtow to your father."

    "Mom, is dad sleeping inside?"

    "Shut up and kowtow when I tell you to."

    Zhang Ruifang became even more irritable than usual. Cao Ying pouted and reluctantly kowtowed. Being less than four years old, Cao Ying obviously didn''t understand the meaning of life and death.

    "Let''s go, we''re almost done."

    Lin Jiang looked around, feeling a gloomy atmosphere. The mass grave here had probably buried countless skeletons. The atmosphere was heavy with gloom, and there were rumors of grave-robbing incidents. Of course, even if there were real zombies, they wouldn''t pose any threat. A single strike from someone with a golden core or Nascent Soul in Yunzhong City could easily cleave a zombie into eighteen pieces, without missing a single one.

    Zhang Ruifang picked up Cao Ying and they flew on their swords for hundreds of miles. Only then did Lin Jiang summon Aurora falcon. They each sat on one, and flew towards Ruiyang Mountain.

    "Big bird, fly, fly"

    "So high"

    "So much fun"

    Finally, Cao Ying sat on Aurora falcon, not just walking in the yard, but truly soaring in the sky.

    Aurora falcon was also very happy. They were eagles in the sky, destined to soar high and not be confined to the yard.

    After so many years, they finally flew.

    "Don''t be so noisy"

    Zhang Ruifang was already in a bad mood, and Cao Ying''s chatter annoyed her. She got so angry that she scolded loudly, and even released a protective aura, blowing wind in Cao Ying''s face. Lin Jiang couldn''t bear to watch and quickly brought Cao Ying over to his side.

    Ruiyang Mountain is very far away from Yunzhong City, located on the northwest side of the clouds. Even the Aurora falcon took a whole day to reach there. But the Aurora falcon flies very high, so it didn''t encounter any trouble on the way.

    After arriving at Ruiyang Mountain, the two of themnded and Lin Jiang put away the Aurora falcon. They found an inn in the market at the foot of the mountain to stay.

    Lin Jiang went out to investigate and then said to Zhang Ruifang, "We arrivedte. Ruiyang Mountain stopped epting people directly over ten years ago. Now, to join Ruiyang Mountain, we must first stay nearby, take on tasks issued by Ruiyang Mountain, and umte a certain amount of Merit Points."

    "I looked at the tasks they posted, and they are all ordinary things like finding spiritual medicine, minerals, and trading resources with them. It even includes hunting down traitors and evil beings. Don''t pick the difficult ones. If you spend three to five years, you can definitely do it."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Ruiyang Mountain established a base and many independent cultivators flocked there. However, they recruited enough people in just a few years, and there was no more space for neers. So Ruiyang Mountain set many conditions and filtered out most people. But Zhang Ruifang should be fine, after all, she is in the Building Foundation Period.

    "I also inquired, the prices at Ruiyang Mountain are much lower than Yunzhong City. I have some money on me, enough to manage."

    "That''s good. What do you n to do next?"

    "Hunt demons. I don''t know how to do anything else, and I don''t want to kill people either."

    Zhang Ruifang said, she had been in the Dark Night for many years, where she only learned how to kill. She doesn''t know anything about doing business or farming. Now that she no longer intends to kill, the only option left is hunting demons.

    "How can you hunt monsters while carrying a child?"

    "Keep her at home, set up a protective formation, and make sure she doesn''t wander around."

    "Although Ruiyang Mountain is well-regted, it is not safe."

    "What good solution can there be?"

    "Never mind, I''ll stay for a while and help you stabilize your life first."

    Lin Jiang sighed, he was still too kind-hearted. He originally intended to leave without a trace, but when he saw Zhang Ruifang, who was an orphan and a widow, he couldn''t bear to just walk away.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang and Zhang Ruifang went to rent a house together. The rent here is not like in Yunzhong City. They rented a house with hundreds of square meters for only eight hundred spirit stones a year.

    Zhang Ruifang bought a defensive formation to protect the house, and Lin Jiang was busy running around, helping to buy some daily necessities.

    He also apanied Zhang Ruifang to check the mission board for Ruiyang Mountain, looking for suitable tasks to do and gathering information about the surrounding monsters.

    The area around Ruiyang Mountain is mostly covered in ancient forests, but there are very few monsters left because they have been killed by cultivators. Only a few monsters hide in the deep forests. If you want to find more monsters, you need to go to the Wilderness, which is thousands of miles away from Ruiyang Mountain. It takes a day for an ordinary cultivator to go back and forth.

    After some time had passed, about half a month, Lin Jiang saw that Zhang Ruifang had adapted to life here, so he wanted to say goodbye.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, how do you like it here?"

    On that day, Zhang Ruifang suddenly said to Lin Jiang.

    She could tell that Lin Jiang wanted to leave, but she suddenly felt reluctant. She was not a strong person in life, and her personality was even a bit cowardly. At the market in the past, she was very introverted.

    Although she was powerful when she was an assassin, it was because she had no other choice. Years of life in Yunzhong City had also worn away her fierce temperament. She was used to having someone to rely on in life.

    And she could see that Cao Ying really liked Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang was very kind to Cao Ying, just like Cao Yang. This was the reason why Cao Ying didn''t feel sad even though she lost her father. Another man had taken on the role of her father.

    "Life here is pretty good, but it''s not suitable for me."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He knew what Zhang Ruifang was implying, but he also knew that he didn''t fit in here.

    Ruiyang Mountain is too small. If he stays here for more than 30 years, he''ll have to reveal his secret. When that happens, he''ll have to leave. Only big cities like Yunzhong City, where peoplee and go, can hide his secret.

    "Ruiyang Mountain is indeed too small for Taoist Friend Lin to spread his wings and fly."

    Zhang Ruifang felt a little disappointed, but she didn''t force herself to stay. Her heart wasn''t here, so staying wouldn''t make a difference.

    "Hmm, I wille visit you all in the future."

    Lin Jiang said decisively, ready to cut ties with Lin Yang once his identity is abandoned.

    Zhang Ruifang didn''t say anything anymore and silently looked down to eat. Cao Ying didn''t understand anything and pestered Lin Jiang to y with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Lin Jiang refused and took out snacks to appease her.

    The next morning, Lin Jiang didn''t follow Zhang Ruifang anymore but pondered over how to leave.

    "Rather than leaving without saying anything, I should at least tell her. What if Cao Ying cries? I can''t stand seeing girls cry, especially adorable little girls."

    Lin Jiang was very conflicted. Leaving without a word didn''t seem right, but a formal goodbye would seem too dramatic. He was afraid that he wouldn''t have the heart to leave if he let himself get emotional.

    "Okay, okay, let''s buy some snacks and fruits for Cao Ying."

    Lin Jiang thought and thought, but didn''t know what to do. In the end, he decided to buy something to make Cao Ying happy. He really liked cute little children, they were so much fun.

    Lin Jiang bought a lot of things and walked back to the house Zhang Ruifang rented. But right at the doorstep, Lin Jiang suddenly realized something was wrong. There was someone following them.

    At that moment, Lin Jiang was really surprised. They had only been here for a short while, who would be following them? Was it the Dark Night Organization or the local group from Ruiyang Mountain?

    Lin Jiang held back his anger and quickly opened the door, walking inside. Cao Ying came running to greet him, begging to y with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    "Cao Ying, we can''t y with big birds here, let''s go outside to y."

    Lin Jiang gritted his teeth and agreed. No matter who was following them, he was determined to take them down today. He wanted to see which foolish friend it was, not opening their eyes.

    Volume 8 will be tranted within 2-3 weeks.

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62

    Out in the wild, Cao Ying''s attention was quickly diverted by Lin Jiang. There were so many fun things outside, like rabbits, sparrows, grasshoppers, fish, and all sorts of toys. Wasn''t that more fun than big birds?

    Lin Jiang yed with Cao Ying while three people slowly approached from behind. One person was building a foundation, the other two were refining qi, and they were staring at Lin Jiang and Cao Ying from a distance.

    "Sir, do you want to take action?"

    "You two, slowly get closer to him. If you can catch him, do so. If you can''t, then kill him. Keep the little one alive, we''ll use him to threaten Cao Yang''s wife."

    The person in the building foundation period said, "The investigation the organization conducted earlier was indeed correct. Cao Yang''s neighbor is indeed part of her group. Unfortunately, we underestimated Cao Yang''s wife''s strength and Han Chunming ended up dying in vain."

    He naturally believed that Zhang Ruifang killed Han Chunming. Qi refining period killing building foundation period only exists in the talented disciples of the major sects. When did independent cultivators gain such power?

    "Cao Ying,e here."

    Lin Jiang sensed someone approaching and waved to Cao Ying. Cao Ying happily bounced over and Lin Jiang reached out to cover her eyes.

    "Uncle is ying hide-and-seek with you. You can''t open your eyes, okay?""Okay, uncle. Make sure you hide well."

    "You won''t be able to find me."

    Lin Jiangughed and said, then cast a spell to block Cao Ying''s vision and hearing. Children shouldn''t see so many bloody things.

    "Kill them."

    Lin Jiang released Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and pointed them in the right direction.

    "Ying..."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao let out a terrifying cry, causing the two sneaking individuals to suddenly startle, exposing their presence.

    "Aurora falcon"

    Someone shouted in rm, trying to escape, but it was toote. The Aurora falcon swooped down from a height of tens of meters, faster than an arrow, flying past the two individuals'' heads. Its ws tore through their protective energy and their heads.

    "How is that possible?"

    From afar, during the early stages of construction, they saw the Aurora falcon. The expression on their face froze instantly. This was a second-level Aurora falcon. How could a Qi Refining Period person have a second-level beast pet, let alone two?

    "Who are you, sir?"

    Lin Jiang arrived in front of the Building Foundation Period, and the two Shadiao birds had already begun to circle in the sky.

    "I''m saying this is a misunderstanding, do you believe me?"

    "Guess if I believe you or not."

    "Alright, we didn''te for the taoist friend. The taoist friend can hand over the child in their arms to me, and we''ll pretend this never happened."

    "Where do you get the confidence to think I would hand over someone?"

    "Just an Aurora falcon, it''s no match for me."

    "Is that so?"

    "I said it, I meant it"

    Before the words of Building Foundation Period were finished, the person had already moved. He knew the characteristics of Aurora falcon. Once it starts running, it is a certain death. His speed cannot be faster than Aurora falcon.

    So his only hope is to kill or catch Lin Jiang. But unfortunately, Lin Jiang came in front of him, at such a short distance, he is definitely faster than Aurora falcon.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang was already prepared and ready. As soon as the opponent made a move, he immediately unleashed the Explosive Element Technique, and then disyed the Sword of the Immortal Flying. He had been practicing this move for many years, and finally mastered it.

    The flying sword transformed into a stream of light, directly piercing towards the opponent. Building Foundation Period waspletely dismissive. With the skills of Qi Refining Period, how much strength can it have? It casually released a burst of light, intending to deflect Lin Jiang''s flying sword.

    "*sound effect*"

    However, the flying sword was like poking through a window paper, tearing apart the burst of light, its momentum unabated, continuing forward. Building Foundation Period''s face turned pale, hastily summoning a defensive shield.

    "Boom"

    The flying sword pierced through the magic shield, and both the person and the shield were forcefully thrown out.

    "Oh no"

    The person felt a huge panic in his heart, realizing that he had made a mistake. This person is terrifyingly powerful, even in the Qi Refining Period, he managed to disy the strength of the Building Foundation Period.

    At this moment, he actually hadn''t sustained any injuries, but his ns had failed, and he had lost the advantage.

    "Ying..."

    As soon as the two Shadiao saw the enemy attacking, they immediately swooped down. The person hurriedly used his shield to defend himself, but the Big Shadiao passed by his side, its wings colliding with the shield and once again sending him flying.

    At this moment, the Small Shadiao grabbed onto the mid-air Building Foundation Period and quickly ascended, then it released its ws, dropping him down.

    "Stay steady"

    During the period of establishing a foundation, a surge of spiritual energy urred. The Building Foundation Period is capable of flying with their physical body, but this move didn''t have much effect on him.

    "Ying..."

    Just at this moment, Big Shadiao let out another piercing and mournful scream. The Building Foundation Period felt a momentary daze, interrupting their spiritual energy output, and causing them to fall.

    "Bang"

    The person fell heavily to the ground, in a disordered manner.

    Before he could react, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao attacked again,nding beside the Building Foundation Period and pecking at him vigorously.

    "Bang, bang"

    After a few moments, the protective shield in his hand was pecked through, as the sharp ws and beaks of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were their strongest weapons. Lin Jiang tested it, even a high-quality magical artifact couldn''t withstand their pecks.

    Without the protective shield, the Building Foundation Period became vulnerable. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao left holes with each bite. After the person howled in pain several times, he turned into a bloody and gruesome sight, too horrifying to look at.

    Lin Jiang quickly put away their storage bag and sword and jumped onto Big Shadiao''s back, saying to them, "Go find Zhang Ruifang, in the west."

    Lin Jiang didn''t know where Zhang Ruifang went, but he knew she went west.

    Soon, they found Zhang Ruifang because she was already fighting with the Dark Night Organization, making a lot of noise and being very noticeable.

    "Friend Lin, run!"

    Zhang Ruifang saw the Aurora falcon and screamed.

    "Mistake?"

    A man in theter stage of building foundation saw the Aurora falcon approaching in the sky and frowned.

    "Toote."

    Lin Jiang had already jumped off the Aurora falcon and let it hover in the sky.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, take Cao Ying and go."

    Zhang Ruifang said, at this time Dark Night Organization still had nine people, four of them were in the Building Foundation Period, and one of them was in theter stages of the Building Foundation Period. The difference in strength was too big.

    "It''s toote, get ready to fight."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, as soon as he came down, the people from Dark Night Organization immediately surrounded them. It was difficult to break free.

    "Cover me as I rush into the forest over there, and then youe in too. I can''t use my assassin skills on t ground."

    Zhang Ruifang said to Lin Jiang, she was forced out of the forest by someone. She had already killed two people.

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang took out a piece of clothing from his storage bag and tied it to Cao Ying''s back. Then he took out arge stack of spiritual talismans.

    "Don''t let them enter the forest, kill them."

    The leader of the building foundationter ordered, and he also knew that Zhang Ruifang''s skill level, although not as good as Cao Yang before, was still quite skilled. The moreplex the environment, the more advantageous it is for assassins.

    Among the nine members of Dark Night, eight of them started to act. Three members in the Building Foundation Period dealt with Zhang Ruifang, while five members in the Qi Refining Period went after Lin Jiang. The person in theter stage of the building foundation period confronted Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao sensed the opponent''s strength and kept making warning calls, showing great caution.

    "Boom, boom..."

    Lin Jiang immediately started throwing spiritual talismans as soon as he took action. Before that, Lin Jiang had been working hard for a year and drew over a thousand spiritual talismans. He sold more than half of them and still had a few hundred left on him.

    This luxurious approach made the assassins very ufortable. The average price of a first-level premium spiritual talisman is ten spirit stones. The ones with more attack power may even be a bit more expensive. Lin Jiang threw out more than ten at once, which means it cost over a hundred spirit stones.

    As for assassins, besides the few who have achieved fame, most of them are poor, who might only have one set of flying swords, daggers, or shields. If they get destroyed, they might be left with nothing.

    Therefore, faced with Lin Jiang''s luxurious approach, the five assassins in the Qi Refining Period focused on avoiding and felt restricted. Judging from the situation, Lin Jiang seemed to have the upper hand.

    "Hidden."

    One assassin couldn''t stand it anymore, put away their shield, and used an invisibility charm on themselves. Then they kept changing positions, trying to get closer to Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang''s senses are much stronger than theirs. After years of practicing the Soul Refining Technique, he had already seen through their traces, right at the moment he approached.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang once again executed the technique of the Immortal Who Flies with a Single Sword, the flying sword turned into a streak of light, directly piercing through him.

    "Return"

    This move by Lin Jiang also exposed a w to the others. The remaining four people instantly surged forward, but Lin Jiang manipted the flying sword to turn back, and his spiritual talisman in his hand was activated once again.

    Without using the Technique of Explosive Elements, Lin Jiang''s strength was almost on par with theirs, and he sessfully pushed them back.

    "Be careful, it''s the Qianque Crossbow"

    In the next moment, Lin Jiang shot out a crossbow arrow, someone shouted that the Qianque Crossbow still had great power within the Qi Refining Period, its arrows were capable of prating armor, and ordinary shields were difficult to withstand.

    "Bang"

    The crossbow arrow was blocked by a magical shield, but the silver needle hidden in the arrow hit its target, piercing through the person''s temple, causing them to copse.

    The remaining three people looked at Lin Jiang in shock. They had thought he was a harmless littlemb, but when they tried to attack him, they realized he was actually a fierce tiger, and his methods were even darker than theirs, resembling an assassin.

    "Chase him into the forest."

    Among the remaining three people, someone shouted. They didn''t want Zhang Ruifang to enter the forest because Zhang Ruifang was even more skilled than them, a superior assassin. If Zhang Ruifang went in, they would be putting their lives in danger.

    But Lin Jiang wasn''t an assassin. If they entered the forest, it would be Lin Jiang who would be risking his life.

    The three immediately changed their strategy, attacking together to force Lin Jiang to retreat, step by step, toward the direction of the forest.

    "Ying..."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao couldn''t restrain themselves any longer. They kept circling in the sky, making eerie screeches, assuming an attacking posture.

    But thoseter-stage assassins were not at all afraid of their tricks, and it didn''t shake them at all.

    "A brute is just a brute."

    Theter-stage assassin was a bit disdainful. When he saw Aurora Falcon preparing to attack him, he was one step ahead and flew into the air with two spiritual talismans tied to his flying sword. Then, the talismans were activated and two fire dragons appeared. Aurora Falcon saw the mesing and panicked, quickly flying higher to avoid the pursuing sword.

    "Ying..."

    Aurora Falcon became more and more anxious, even its cries were a bit chaotic. Lin Jiang hurriedly secretlyforted them, telling them not to be in a rush. Just by keeping an eye on thatter-stage assassin was already the biggest contribution.

    Lin Jiang approached the forest step by step. As soon as he entered the forest, the three assassins instantly disappeared. They were masters at hiding themselves in the environment.

    Lin Jiang took out a helmet from his storage bag and put it on. This helmet also protected his neck. Ever since he found out that assassins liked to go for the neck, Lin Jiang had bought this thing. This was the first time he used it.

    "Puchi..."

    One of the assassins couldn''t help but make a move. He jumped down from a tree and saw Lin Jiang wearing the helmet, protecting his neck. The assassin stabbed him in the chest with a knife.

    But with this stab, he knew something was wrong, the dagger didn''t go through.

    "Flop"

    Lin Jiang stabbed him in the neck with a sword, then kicked him out.

    He touched his chest and pulled out the dagger, he was wearing threeyers of clothes made of special silk woven by spiritual silkworms, and twoyers of armor, so it wasn''t easy to prate.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    To save his life, Lin Jiang thought he was excellent.

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63

    Lin Jiang led away all the Qi Refining Period enemies, leaving Zhang Ruifang facing three opponents in the Building Foundation Period, just like her, all in the early stages of Building Foundation.

    In a situation of three against one, Zhang Ruifang didn''t have the advantage, she was only defending herself and eager to enter the forest to show her assassin skills.

    Seeing Lin Jiang forced into the forest, Zhang Ruifang was extremely worried and even more eager to enter the forest.

    But the other person doesn''t give her a chance, every time she approaches the direction of the forest, they force her toe back.

    "Go."

    Zhang Ruifang gritted her teeth and scattered the remaining dozen or so spiritual talismans on her body. Various methods of attack were suddenly flying everywhere.

    "Be careful, she''s going into the forest."

    As assassins themselves, those three people knew exactly what Zhang Ruifang intended to do. Ignoring the attacks from the spiritual talismans, someone wielded their sword and aimed at Zhang Ruifang, trying to keep her from escaping.

    "Missed, she got away.""She''s gone into the forest."

    "Should we chase her?"

    The three of them immediately panicked. In the Dark Night, they were considered average in terms of strength. The powerful assassins were no longer around, as they had suffered losses in a battle at Sanjiang Estuary a few years ago and then were hunted down by the two major sects, resulting in further losses.

    The remaining assassins are just ordinary. They have been undercover for years with no ie, so they don''t have the money to train new top-level assassins. That''s why only Cao Yang went to assassinate Wen Xing. If it were before, Dark Night would have sent at least two or three people to carry out the mission.

    "Go in and kill her. She must die."

    The leader of the building foundationte-stage assassins spoke up. Zhang Ruifang must die. The organization has put in a lot of effort to train these assassins. If she just escapes without punishment, it will be difficult to lead the team in the future.

    "Let''s go."

    The three of them nced at each other and flew towards the nearest forest.

    But at that moment, Zhang Ruifang appeared behind them. Zhang Ruifang held a dagger and stabbed one of them in the waist. She twisted the knife forcefully, pulled it out, and quickly retreated.

    It turns out Zhang Ruifang didn''t really run away. She used a spiritual talisman to interfere with the three men''s vision and used a hiding technique to enter the ground.

    "Ah!"

    The person who was stabbed let out a scream. For a cultivator in the building foundation period, this kind of injury is not actually fatal, but you need advanced healing pills in advance, starting from the third rank.

    Unfortunately, he didn''t have it.

    At this moment, Zhang Ruifang truly disappeared into the forest. Once inside, her figurepletely vanished. The two of them cautiously tracked into the forest, searching inch by inch with their senses, but found no trace.

    "Stay together, don''t separate."

    The two of them had a strong understanding. They had no intention of splitting up and giving Zhang Ruifang a chance to attack them separately.

    Zhang Ruifang was about a hundred meters away from them now. The range of the Building Foundation Period''s senses could exceed a hundred meters, but the farther the distance, the weaker the senses. For someone in the Building Foundation Period, a hundred meter distance was already beyond the detailed scanning range of their senses.

    Seeing that the two of them wouldn''t separate, Zhang Ruifang acted immediately. She didn''t approach them directly, but maintained a distance of about a hundred meters. She moved quickly, creating various noises.

    The two of them naturally heard these noises. They began to search, but every time they reached a location, it turned out to be empty. This gave them a feeling that Zhang Ruifang was like a ghost, existing in every ce.

    "Ah!"

    After a quarter of an hour, several miles away, thest Qi Refining Period met a brutal death at Zhang Ruifang''s hands. The previous noises were just a feint. Her goal was to help Lin Jiang eliminate his opponents.

    "You should hurry and leave. That person outside is called Chen Jianhong. He is an expert assassin, even better than Cao Yang, and one of the top fighters in the Dark Night."

    Zhang Ruifang said to Lin Jiang. Chen Jianhong is even more skilled than Cao Yang. He is very powerful, and Zhang Ruifang has no confidence in facing him.

    "I can''t escape. Aurora Falcon is being targeted by him. In terms of speed, I can''tpete with him. I can only take them out."

    Lin Jiang said. Besides, these people also need to be silenced. Only by silencing them can his identity in Yunzhong City remain a secret. Otherwise, he will be discovered sooner orter.

    "We are not opponents."

    "Maybe not. By dealing with the remaining two Building Foundation members, the two of us, along with Aurora Falcon, have the strength of Building Foundation."

    "You..."

    Zhang Ruifang was somewhat surprised. She knew Lin Jiang had used a secret technique. Can it be sustained, considering the great cost of using such a technique topete with Building Foundation in a short time?

    "Trust me."

    Lin Jiang said softly, looking at the system. With over forty thousand years of life, he could easily indulge himself. The Explosive Element Technique could onlyst a hundred years at most, but he could afford itpletely.

    "Okay,e close and listen..."

    Zhang Ruifang gritted her teeth and agreed. She whispered in Lin Jiang''s ear, and then they hid Cao Ying, who had been knocked unconscious by Lin Jiang''s spell, in a big tree.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "There''s no movement."

    "Did they run away?"

    "It''s possible."

    "What do we do? We can''t exin this."

    The two assassins couldn''t find Zhang Ruifang at the moment, and they couldn''t hear any sound either. Both of them were getting panicky. If their target escaped, they would be severely punished by the organization.

    In fact, once they entered the forest, they lost control. Whether it was an ambush or running away, it was up to Zhang Ruifang to decide.

    "Ssh"

    However, at this moment, there was a noise from a hundred meters away, making both of them feel uneasy. Even though they knew it could be a trap, they had to go and check.

    A hundred meters away, there was a thick tangle of thorns that could easily hide a few people. The two of them silently approached.

    After getting closer, the two of them exchanged a nce, and one of them took out a special charm and threw it towards the thorns.

    "Thud"

    This was a golden charm. After activating the special charm, dozens of golden lights disappeared into the thorny bushes. However, apart from the sound of hitting the ground, there was no other movement.

    Both of them realized that they missed their target again and were about to retreat. But before they could turn around, they heard a rushing sound behind them.

    Lin Jiang activated another special charm. He could only activate twenty charms at a time, which was the limit of his ability. He intentionally chose seven different charms to confuse and distract the enemy with a variety of attacks.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    After Lin Jiang activated the spiritual talisman, he used a secret technique again to deal with a powerful opponent in the Building Foundation Period. Neither the Qianque Crossbow nor the silver needles were effective, only the use of the Explosive Elemental Technique, which consumed life force, could pose a threat to the opponent in the Building Foundation Period.

    "I''ll block it."

    "Kill"

    The two of them cooperated seamlessly. One person used a magical shield to block the attack and used a flying sword to sweep away the attacks from the spiritual talisman. The other person attacked from the side, aiming to kill the opponent.

    "Boom"

    Lin Jiang''s Flying Sword Immortal first collided with the opponent''s shield, then Lin Jiang quickly advanced and continued to attack.

    However, in mid-air, the person who intended to assassinate Lin Jiang was intercepted by Zhang Ruifang. Both of them abandoned their flying swords and used daggers, fiercely stabbing at each other, trying to see who was quicker and more resistant.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Snap"

    After a short while, both of themnded, but Zhang Ruifang was standing while the other person was already lying on the ground, clutching their neck with despair in their eyes.

    Facing this person against Lin Jiang was also not optimistic. Every punch from Lin Jiang was equally strong as his. He was tightly constrained until Zhang Ruifang appeared behind him and finished the battle with one sh.

    "You''re hurt."

    Lin Jiang approached and noticed a strong smell of blooding from Zhang Ruifang''s body. He saw at least three wounds.

    "I''m fine."

    Zhang Ruifang replied, feeling frustrated. She had been toofortable these past few years. If it was during her peak period, she wouldn''t have been hit even once. But now, she had been struck five times. Although she managed to avoid vital areas, it would definitely affect the uing battles.

    "I have some medicine for injuries."

    "Keep it, I have some too."

    Zhang Ruifang shook her head. She took out a medicine and swallowed one first, then crushed another one and applied it to her wound.

    "Let''s go outside. Once we kill thest person, we can go home or somewhere else."

    Lin Jiang picked up their bag and divided it into two, giving one to Zhang Ruifang. He also put a few in his own pocket.

    "Okay."

    Zhang Ruifang nodded and intentionallygged behind Lin Jiang. Then she put another medicine in her mouth.

    Chen Jianhong was still struggling with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. They were not his match, but they were fast and flew high. Chen Jianhong couldn''t handle them, except for a few times when he managed to lure them down but almost seeded.

    "It''s impressive to see an excellent assassin trained by the organization."

    Chen Jianhong saw Lin Jiang and Zhang Ruifanging out and knew that all his people were dead, but he didn''t care. Those people were from the organization, not his subordinates. It didn''t matter to him if they died. As long as he killed Zhang Ruifang, he wouldplete his mission.

    "Chen Jianhong, myte husband Cao Yang helped you several times back then. Why go to such extremes?"

    "Cao Yang is really good and has helped me before, but you know the rules of the organization. You shouldn''t have run away. Running away is a capital crime. If you don''t die, then I will have to die."

    Chen Jianhong said that he really admires Cao Yang. They fought side by side before, and Cao Yang even helped him. But that little favor isn''t enough for him to die for Cao Yang''s wife and child.

    "So there''s nothing more to say. Are we really going to fight to the death?"

    "Zhang Ruifang, do you really think you can beat me just by relying on these two animals?"

    "How do you know if you don''t even give it a try?"

    "Haha, if your husband Cao Yang were here, maybe I would be a little worried. As for you, tut tut..."

    Chen Jianhong shook his head. Zhang Ruifang had a decent rank within their organization, above average, butpared to him, there was a big difference. This kind of rank could mean the difference between life and death.

    "Looks like I still don''t have any presence at all."

    Lin Jiang rubbed his nose, feeling embarrassed. Chen Jianhong waspletely ignoring him, and he felt worse than Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. This made Lin Jiang very angry, like he had no dignity at all.

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64

    When both sides have irreconcble contradictions, all words are useless.

    After Chen Jianhong finished talking nonsense, he directlyunched an attack. He didn''t use assassin means because it wouldn''t work. The terrain here is open, and assassin means cannot be used. If we go to the forest, they won''t y with you like this. They would be happy if you went there because it would be easy for them to escape.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    So Chen Jianhong chose tounch a direct attack. With his flying sword, he directly targeted Zhang Ruifang. In his view, the only threat to him was Zhang Ruifang. Lin Jiang in the Qi Refining Period is not worth worrying about, he could kill him with one p. And Aurora falcon is also not his opponent.

    "Crack"

    Zhang Ruifang also summoned her flying sword, and it constantly collided and entangled with Chen Jianhong''s flying sword in the air, making it difficult to distinguish who had the upper hand.

    "I underestimated you"

    Chen Jianhong looked at Zhang Ruifang with some surprise, as if something was not right. Zhang Ruifang shouldn''t be this strong.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, restrain him and create an opportunity for Aurora falcon""Good"

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out a stack of magical charms. He activated them and threw them towards Chen Jianhong.

    Chen Jianhong was very unimpressed by the first-grade magical charms. He waved his hand and a powerful force appeared, deflecting all the attacks from the magical charms.

    "Ying..."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao received instructions from Lin Jiang and started adjusting their position, preparing to dive.

    Diving from high above was one of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao''s specialties and one of their strongest moves. With lightning-fast ws, they could defeat countless enemies.

    "We''re ready for you."

    Chen Jianhongughed loudly and then soared into the sky, preparing to intercept the Aurora Falcon midway. Once the Aurora Falcon started diving, it would be difficult for it to change its position in the air, making it the perfect opportunity to kill them.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang acted at this moment, Chen Jianhong, with his experienced fighting skills, knew that Aurora falcon was no match for him, so Lin Jiang had to stop him.

    "Go away"

    Chen Jianhong quickly released a spiritual beam, preparing to deflect Lin Jiang''s flying sword.

    "Puff"

    However, Chen Jianhong''s spiritual beam was instantly shattered, and the flying sword continued its course, flying towards Chen Jianhong once again.

    Chen Jianhong was extremely annoyed. He didn''t dare to engage in a fight with Lin Jiang, as they would both end up injured. If Chen Jianhong didn''t do anything, there was a high chance he would be heavily wounded. So, he had no choice but to give up on Aurora falcon and use a shield to block Lin Jiang''s flying sword.

    Lin Jiang''s flying sword shattered directly, turning into fragments that fell to the ground. He took out the flying sword once again. It was quite tiring to fight beyond his level, but unfortunately, he couldn''t use any spiritual tools. Otherwise, he thought it would be good to buy and use one.

    Chen Jianhong''s attacking rhythm was disrupted, and Aurora falcon immediatelyunched an attack. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao continued to emit a piercing screech, attempting to disturb Chen Jianhong''s mind. Meanwhile, Zhang Ruifang broke free from Chen Jianhong''s flying sword and flew towards him, engaging in closebat.

    The two people were very fast, holding daggers and poking each other. After a moment, Chen Jianhong kicked Zhang Ruifang away, and Lin Jiang caught her in midair.

    Zhang Ruifang had a few more wounds, and Chen Jianhong looked at the two wounds on his body with a dark face. He was actually injured.

    "Go!"

    Lin Jiang immediately gave orders to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to stop Chen Jianhong from attacking further.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao dove down, one on the left and one on the right, and their speed was extremely fast. They appeared next to Chen Jianhong in an instant.

    "Bang!"

    But the result was that Big Shadiao was directly knocked out, while Small Shadiao couldn''t touch the opponent.

    Chen Jianhong was really strong. Although Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were unbeatable in speed, he managed to block them. This made Lin Jiang feel somewhat hopeless.

    "Come again!"

    Zhang Ruifang took a deep breath and charged towards Chen Jianhong again.

    Zhang Ruifang showed off her agility, moving swiftly and unpredictably, alternating between left and right. Chen Jianhong did the same, and they engaged in a fast-paced battle.

    "Boom!"

    After a moment, Zhang Ruifang was once again sent flying backwards.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang immediately followed, protecting Zhang Ruifang. Otherwise, if Chen Jianhong attacked again, Zhang Ruifang would be in danger.

    "How did you do it?"

    Chen Jianhong looked at Lin Jiang in surprise. Using some secret techniques during the Qi Refining Period can temporarily rival the strength of the Building Foundation Period. However, these techniquese with a great cost. Normally, the side effects would render someone unable to move. Why was Lin Jiang unaffected?

    "If you kill yourself, I will tell you."

    "Hehe."

    This time, Chen Jianhong targeted Lin Jiang. Despite Lin Jiang''s powerful secret technique, it posed no threat to him. However, it was annoying, like a fly. Chen Jianhong decided to squash the fly before doing anything else.

    Chen Jianhong was full of murderous intent, which Lin Jiang sensed early on. Lin Jiang immediately ran away, and called Small Shadiao at the same time. He quickly climbed onto Small Shadiao''s back and took off into the sky.

    Chen Jianhong was infuriated and prepared to fight in the air, but Zhang Ruifang once again pounced on him.

    "Bang."

    Lin Jiang realized that the advantage of high altitude was immediately evident. He took out his Qianque Crossbow and shot an arrow at Chen Jianhong.

    Although the Qianque Crossbow couldn''t break through Chen Jianhong''s defenses, it made him lose focus because he couldn''t guarantee that the next one wouldn''t be a Qianque Crossbow.

    "Circle around him, look for an opportunity."

    Lin Jiang ordered Small Shadiao to fly in the sky around a hundred meters high, asionally diving in an attacking posture. Small Shadiao''s fighting instincts were even stronger than Lin Jiang''s.

    Chen Jianhong and Zhang Ruifang engaged in a fierce battle once again. Zhang Ruifang was once again sent flying and when she stood up, she was covered in blood and looked extremely terrifying. Chen Jianhong had acquired another wound.

    This made Chen Jianhong extremely angry. He directed his anger towards Zhang Ruifang, ready to defeat her once and for all, even if it meant paying a certain price.

    Just as Chen Jianhong was about to make a move, his face suddenly changed color. He wiped the fresh blood from his wound and saw that it had turned ck and emitted a foul smell.

    "You dare to poison me!"

    "I may best in the Poison Master Jia''s ss, but when ites to using poison, I can rank in the top three."

    Zhang Ruifang confidently said that the development of medicinal pills in the cultivation world far surpassed that of poisons. Even the assassin organization wasn''t very enthusiastic about poisons because no matter how powerful they were, they couldn''tpare to the miraculous healing effects of antidotes.

    However, for higher-level cultivators in the Building Foundation Period, what powerful antidote could they afford? Using poison was Zhang Ruifang''s strategy from the beginning. She coated her dagger with poison, which was her only chance to kill Chen Jianhong.

    "You..."

    Chen Jianhong scolded loudly and rushed to find an antidote. He always carried a antidote with him, but he wasn''t sure if it would work, at least it could suppress the poison.

    "Charge!"

    At this moment, no one would give him a chance to take medicine. Lin Jiang immediately signaled Small Shadiao to dive, and Zhang Ruifang was the first to rush forward.

    "Even if I''m poisoned, you can''t kill me. You''re not worthy."

    Chen Jianhong shouted loudly, using his inner power to suppress the poison. He fought with Zhang Ruifang once again, but the poison still weakened him, and Zhang Ruifang had the upper hand.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang has also arrived. He wasn''t a threat to Chen Jianhong before, but now that Chen Jianhong is poisoned, Lin Jiang''s involvement is different.

    "Ying..."

    Small Shadiao was the first to make a move. With one strike, he directly scratched his face. Originally, he was aiming for his eyes, but he avoided the crucial hit.

    Injured, Chen Jianhong went crazy again and caught hold of Zhang Ruifang. The two of them stabbed fiercely, using every move they had.

    "Five Elements Spell, Iron Thorn."

    Lin Jiang withdrew and then shouted loudly, throwing out over ten seeds of iron thorns. With a surge of spiritual energy, the iron thorns grew quickly in the wind, swiftly entangling Chen Jianhong''s hands and feet.

    This kind of Five Elements Spell was the basic spell for cultivators. It was originally ineffective in a battle, as cultivators wouldn''t give you the time to get entangled. But now, it became the final straw that crushed Chen Jianhong.

    Just as he was about to break free from the iron thorns, Zhang Ruifang found an opportunity. With one sword, she sealed his throat and Chen Jianhong, unwillingly, fell down.

    "Quick, take this medicine."

    Lin Jiang immediately rushed to Zhang Ruifang''s side. She was already staggering.

    "No need to waste it."

    "Zhang Ruifang, you''re silly! If you die, what will happen to Cao Ying?"

    "I already used the medicine, but it didn''t work. I used the Extreme Yang Pill. Even if I don''t die today, I''ll only have one more month to live."

    Zhang Ruifang shook her head. She was no match for Chen Jianhong, they had a big difference in strength. So how could she fight him multiple times? It was because she took the Extreme Yang Pill. The pill was very powerful and could greatly enhance her abilities.

    Dark Night gave Zhang Ruifang the pill for a mission, but she found out about its effects and chose not to take it. Instead, she lied that she sold the pill to get money for the mission.

    "There''s no need, we can wear him out."

    Lin Jiang''s feelings were veryplicated at the moment. He didn''t know how to express his current emotions.

    Zhang Ruifang shook her head. If she didn''t fight with all her might, she wouldn''t be able to wear out Chen Jianhong. Instead, he would overpower her. She felt that Lin Jiang didn''t understand the vast difference between the Building Foundation Period.

    "I''ll go and bring Cao Ying back, so you can see her onest time."

    "No, don''t let her see me like this."

    Zhang Ruifang let out a cry of surprise. She knew how she looked now, all disheveled and scary. She had always been mean to Cao Ying, and she didn''t want to leave a bad impression on Cao Ying in the end.

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65

    Lin Jiang agreed to Zhang Ruifang''s request. He didn''t bring Cao Ying along and quickly cleaned up the battlefield. Then, he led Zhang Ruifang deep into the forest and set up a defensive formation. He brought a basin of clean water and gently wiped Zhang Ruifang''s face.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I''m about to die. I have something I want to ask you."

    "Go ahead."

    "Were you Jiang Lin from South City Market back then?"

    "No, I wasn''t."

    "Don''t lie to me. Cao Yang has a strong intuition and talent for this. He saw you several times before, and the first time he saw you in West City, he concluded that you were Jiang Lin."

    "And just then, it was confirmed. You used the Explosive Element Technique from the Overlord Scroll. To fully unleash the power of the Qi Refining Period on the Building Foundation Period, you must sacrifice a hundred years of life span. Just now, you''ve consumed at least three hundred years of life span."

    "I didn''t mean to look for your secrets. Everyone has their own secrets. It''s just that, before dying, I wanted to ask you."

    "You guessed right, I am Jiang Lin. I''m sorry, but I have a necessary secret, so I kept it from you."Lin Jiang said, since Zhang Ruifang had already figured it out, he didn''t hide it anymore. Besides, Zhang Ruifang''s condition was getting weaker, she couldn''t live much longer.

    "That''s great, I envy you for being able to live this long."

    Zhang Ruifang said, she knew Lin Jiang had been in South City Market for over twenty years, and then almost thirty years had passed. He should be almost a hundred years old, but still looked so young.

    "Living a long time alsoes with worries."

    Lin Jiang said, his worry was always changing his identity, afraid of being recognized. Cao Yang does have that darn intuition, so he''ll have to be even more careful in the future.

    "It''s a envy-inducing worry, Taoist Friend Lin, can I ask you for one more thing?"

    "You said."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Take care of Cao Ying for me, she no longer has any family. She has really liked you for over a year now."

    "Why not give her to Cao Yang or your family?"

    "No, Cao Yang doesn''t have any close family left. The remaining ones are all ambitious and untrustworthy. If we give Cao Ying to them, it will end badly for her, just like it would in my family."

    "Okay, I promise."

    Lin Jiang said he needed to change his identity when he returned. He had always been alone, and this new role, with a little girl by his side, would make his character more rounded and realistic.

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend Lin, you are a good person."

    "No, in my hometown, calling someone a good person is an insult."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, saying not to give him a ''good person'' card. It sounded like an insult to him.

    Zhang Ruifang didn''t understand the meaning and continued, "After I die, just bury me anywhere, don''t tell Cao Ying. Let her have fewer worries in this world. In my storage bag, there is information about the Dark Night Organization, a list that Cao Yang and Ipiled, secret codes for meetings, and some locations. But all of these may no longer be valid, I don''t know."

    You take these, be careful of the Dark Night Organization in the future. The Dark Night Organization is very powerful, we have encountered many powerful people. I don''t know who is behind it, but if your secret is exposed, the Dark Night Organization will not let you goбн

    Zhang Ruifang talked a lot, her voice getting smaller and smaller, until finally there was no breath left. Lin Jiang let out a long sigh, found a beautiful hilltop, and buried Zhang Ruifang there.

    Afterward, Lin Jiang went to pick up Cao Ying. Without waking her up, he flew away on a Small Shadiao. He didn''t care about the rented house under Ruiyang Mountain anymore.

    Along the way, Lin Jiang checked Big Shadiao''s injuries. Its wings were injured and broken by Chen Jianhong. Lin Jiang helped mend its bones and wrapped them in bandages. It would need some time to heal.

    Back in Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang secluded himself, closing his doors and not going out. He nned to hide for a while longer.

    Lin Jiang spent a day counting his gains from this time. He obtained a total of ten storage bags, nine belonged to Dark Night Organization assassins, and one belonged to Zhang Ruifang.

    The assassins in the Qi Refining Period were poor. They only had less than nine thousand spirit stones in five storage bags, along with some flying swords and such. The total value was just over twenty thousand.

    The storage bags of the Building Foundation Period were much more abundant. Chen Jianhong''s storage bag alone had over thirty thousand spirit stones. In total, the spirit stone count exceeded seventy thousand, and with other items, the value exceeded one hundred and twenty thousand.

    Zhang Ruifang''s storage bag didn''t have much money, less than two thousand spirit stones. However, it had many misceneous items, especially the daggers they used, which were of extremely high quality, all top-grade spirit weapons.

    "Eighty thousand spirit stones, a pile of things, there are more than ten spiritual tools just for the Building Foundation Period."

    Lin Jiang looked at the pile of items and felt worried. He couldn''t use these things himself right now. But if he sold them in the ck market, Lin Jiang also felt it wouldn''t be safe.

    He, who was in the Qi Refining Period, could exin selling one or two spiritual tools, like saying they were passed down from his ancestors. But with more than ten, even a fool could see that there was a problem.

    These things were destined to gather dust in Lin Jiang''s storage bag. Until he waspletely out of money, Lin Jiang wouldn''t sell them. He sighed in regret.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Big bird, big bird, do you know where my mom is?"

    "Big bird, you must know, right? Please tell me where my mom is, okay?"

    One monthter, Cao Ying tugged at Big Shadiao''s feathers and softly asked by its ear. Big Shadiao ignored it, lying on the ground sunbathing alone. It had almost healed from its injury, and after that, it just wanted to soar in the sky.

    Lin Jiang looked at Cao Ying inside the house, his face full of heartache. In the first ten days aftering back, Cao Ying was noisy and restless, crying with tears on her face every day. Lin Jiang tried his best, but couldn''tfort her.

    Tired from crying and being noisy, she fell asleep. But then she woke up again, crying and being noisy. Lin Jiang also followed her, he had no choice.

    Having lived two lifetimes and nearly two hundred years, he never had children and had no experience of taking care of them. Luckily, Cao Ying was almost four years old, so he didn''t have to deal with changing diapers and cleaning up after her. Otherwise, Lin Jiang would go crazy himself.

    "Little Ying,e and have your meal."

    Lin Jiang watched for a while and called Cao Ying toe and eat.

    When he was alone, it was simple. He either ate out or had some jerky or even took the asional Inedia Pill. He only cooked when he felt like it.

    But Cao Ying was too young. Lin Jiang couldn''t bear to let her take Inedia Pills. Jerky and other dry food were fine as snacks, but not to be eaten regrly. So Lin Jiang found ways to cook for her.

    The delicious food somewhatforted Cao Ying''s young heart.

    "Uncle, when are you going to take me to find my mother?"

    "When you grow as tall as Uncle, then I will take you to find your mother. She is far away, working. She needs to earn money to buy you meat to eat and beautiful clothes to wear."

    "Then I won''t eat meat anymore, I won''t wear pretty clothes anymore, can Mommye back immediately?"

    "No, Little Ying must behave, eat a full meal every day, stop crying, only then can you grow tall. When you grow tall, your mom wille back."

    Lin Jiang continued his good-intentioned lies. It was too cruel for her to ept the concept of her parents'' death at such a young age, so Lin Jiang decided to deceive her.

    Cao Ying couldn''t ept this exnation, but she had no choice. No matter how much she cried or how much sheined, her mother wouldn''t appear. She was helpless.

    After finishing their meal, Lin Jiang told her to go y with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Lin Jiang had something to do himself; he had to draw symbols and show the life of an ordinary independent cultivator.

    The only difference was that Lin Jiang no longer set up a stall, but sold spiritual talismans to small shops. Not just one shop, but he changed his identity and sold to three different shops so that people wouldn''t get suspicious of his production.

    "For now, I have enough spirit stones and my identity is temporarily secure. Next, I will advance to the Qi Refining stage and then find a way to build a foundation. In the cultivation world, if you don''t build a foundation, there won''t be any rights."

    When he had free time, Lin Jiang nned his life again. The Qi Refining Period was really difficult, the lowest level of the cultivation society. If he could build a foundation, it wouldn''t be so troublesome.

    The Building Foundation Period couldst for two hundred years. He could lie and say he was a genius who built a foundation in his thirties or forties, so he wouldn''t have to change his identity for over a hundred years.

    Furthermore, when the Building Foundation Period bes stronger, it will not be so passive anymore. Most ces in Yun State can be explored, without always staying in Yunzhong City. Even though Yunzhong City is big, after living there for decades Lin Jiang also wanted to go out and see other ces.

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66

    Time passes quickly, without caring for day or night.

    In the blink of an eye, Lin Jiang is already 160 years old, but his cultivation is still at the ninth level of Qi Refining. This makes Lin Jiang very frustrated because his aptitude in his current body is really poor. Lin Jiang really wants to travel back in time again, not asking for extremely talented geniuses, but at least having two or three Spiritual Roots would be nice.

    "In two years, at most two years, I will break through."

    Lin Jiang sets a small goal for himself, he is only one step away from reaching the peak of Qi Refining, and he is confident that he can achieve it within two years.

    "Uncle, Uncle,e and help me, Big Shadiao is bullying me again."

    A scream came from outside the door, Lin Jiang shook his head helplessly and stood up.

    Walking to the door, Cao Ying had already been forced into a corner by Big Shadiao. Big Shadiao was very angry, pping its wings, creating a strong wind, and throwing sand and stones at Cao Ying.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Why did you do something to upset Big Shadiao again?"Lin Jiang walked over and held Big Shadiao''s neck, pulling it outside.

    Without even looking, it was clear that Cao Ying had provoked Big Shadiao on her own. Since she was five years old, Lin Jiang had been teaching her martial arts, and after learning a few moves, Cao Ying became overconfident and started practicing with Big Shadiao from time to time.

    Big Shadiao had a good temper, but Cao Ying often annoyed him. Once Big Shadiao got serious and decided to discipline her, Cao Ying would start seeking help, and this cycle would repeat over and over again, with Cao Ying finding it amusing.

    "I didn''t provoke it, I just wanted to pluck one of its hairs to make a shuttlecock. It has so much hair, what''s wrong with plucking one?"

    "It seems like I''ve spoiled you. Well, I won''t interfere anymore. Let Big Shadiao deal with you."

    "No, no, no, Uncle, I was just joking."

    "You are already a grown-up girl, can you not act like a little child?"

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. Cao Ying is already twelve years old this year. In this world, she is considered a big girl. If she were an ordinary person, she would be getting married in a couple of years. In some ces, people even get married at thirteen.

    "I''m still little, Uncle."

    "Okay, okay, you are just a kid."

    "Uncle, did you finish making the cake? It''s my birthday today, and I want to eat a whole cake."

    "Not yet, let''s talk about it tonight."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, his mind was upied with other things at the moment.

    Over the years, he had been very good to Cao Ying, treating her like his own daughter. He nevercked in providing for her materially, and she had a better life than most independent cultivator children in Yunzhong City. He also made sure to enrich her spiritually, teaching her how to read and write, buying her many books, and even teaching her martial arts to keep her fit.

    With various actions, Cao Ying gradually forgot about her parents. After she turned six, she hardly ever mentioned them again and lived a simple, happy life.

    Seeing Cao Ying''s cheerful appearance, Lin Jiang hesitated. He was unsure whether to let her practice cultivation.

    In this world of cultivators, it is unsafe without cultivation. One could face constant danger and potentially die from various idents, such as battles among cultivators. The aftermath of a casual move from a cultivator is something ordinary people cannot withstand.

    In the world of cultivators, things aren''t as good as they seem. Once you embark on the path of cultivating, you have to endure countless consequences. Cultivating requires resources, and you have to strive, work hard, travel, kill, and there''s even a chance of being killed by others.

    If you don''t have good talent, perhaps even after decades or centuries of hard work, the result will only be the same as an ordinary person. Lin Jiang heard many cultivators regretting their cultivation after they grew old. They abandoned many things for the sake of cultivation, neglected their family, and in the end, it all turned out to be in vain.

    "Uncle, what are you thinking about? You look unhappy."

    "Cao Ying,e, sit down. Uncle wants to discuss something with you."

    "Uncle, what is it?"

    "Do you want to cultivate?"

    "Yes, I do."

    "Why do you want to cultivate?"

    "Because I want to fly! Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are so stingy, they never take me flying for a whole year. If I can cultivate, I''ll be able to fly on my own. I don''t need to rely on them anymore, hmph!"

    Cao Ying angrily said and gave a disdainful look to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. She was so petty that she wouldn''t even fly with her.

    "Is it just because you want to fly? Do you know that cultivating is very difficult and boring? All day long, it''s either earning spirit stones or meditating and practicing."

    "I''m not afraid of hard work. Besides, I don''t want to burden my uncle. I''m all grown up now."

    Cao Ying said that over the years, their lives had returned to the ordinary life of independent cultivators. Many people still asked Lin Jiang to go out and do things like being a bodyguard, hunting demons, and exploring. But Lin Jiang used taking care of Cao Ying as an excuse to refuse.

    Cao Ying felt that she was holding Lin Jiang back, so she also wanted to cultivate. That way, she wouldn''t burden her uncle anymore, and maybe she could even help.

    "Uncle doesn''t want you to cultivate because it''s tough, tiring, and dangerous. But it''s your own life, and I think you should consider it yourself. So, Uncle respects your decision. I''ll give you one month. After that, I''ll ask you again. If you still want to cultivate, Uncle will make arrangements for you."

    After thinking about it, Lin Jiang said that Cao Ying wasn''t his biological daughter, so he felt he didn''t have the right to decide for her.

    Therefore, Lin Jiang thought that this month, he would tell Cao Ying about the world of cultivators, the good and the bad, the bright and the dark, the fairness and justice. If she still wanted to cultivate, then Lin Jiang would fulfill her wish.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Are you sure you want to cultivate?"

    After a month, Lin Jiang asked Cao Ying again if she wanted to cultivate and received a positive answer.

    "Uncle Lin, please let me cultivate. Everyone in Yunzhong City cultivates, and I want to as well."

    Cao Ying couldn''t understand why Lin Jiang consciously or unconsciously discouraged her from cultivating. Isn''t cultivation something normal in Yunzhong City, where everyone, except for children, is a cultivator?

    "Alright, you''re not a child anymore. I respect your choice, but I hope you won''t regret it in the future."

    "I promise I won''t regret it."

    "Come on, let me test your Spiritual Root. If you don''t have one, there''s nothing we can do."

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out a Spirit Measuring Stone from his storage bag. These things cost a hundred spirit stones each and can determine whether a child has a Spiritual Root. They are amon tool in the cultivation world.

    It is said that some big forces even have more advanced Spirit Measuring tforms, which can urately measure the quality of a child''s Spiritual Root. However, Spirit Measuring tforms are treasures and cost tens of thousands of spirit stones, not something that everyone has.

    Lin Jiang took out the Spirit Measuring Stone and pricked Cao Ying''s finger. He dropped a drop of blood on it. Soon, the Spirit Measuring Stone reacted and emitted a light. Lin Jiang sighed.

    This was within his expectations. Cao Ying''s parents are both cultivators in the Building Foundation Period. There is a probability of more than seventy percent that she has a Spiritual Root. Now, the next thing to see is the quality of her Spiritual Root. Hopefully, it won''t be like his, a waste with only Five Spiritual Roots.

    After the Spirit Measuring Stone came into contact with Cao Ying''s fresh blood, it first emitted a light and then fluctuated in five different colors. This represents the five types of Spiritual Roots. However, soon, only one color, red, remained flickering. Lin Jiang was greatly shocked.

    "One color, a Single Spiritual Root genius?"

    Lin Jiang eximed. A Single Spiritual Root, also known as a Heavenly Spiritual Root, is an extremely rare genius in the cultivation world.

    Among ordinary people, if both their parents and ancestors are ordinary people, the probability of having a Spiritual Root is about one in ten thousand. Even if there is a Spiritual Root, it tends to be four or five Spiritual Roots predominantly. The fewer Spiritual Roots one has, the scarcer and more genius they are.

    "Uncle, you said I''m a genius, yay, I''m a genius!"

    "Don''t worry, let''s try again."

    "No more, uncle. It hurts too much."

    "Cao Ying, try again."

    Lin Jiangforted Cao Ying and squeezed out another drop of blood, then tested it again, but the result remained the same, only one kind of red color, representing the Fire Spiritual Root.

    "Cao Ying, how about trying again?"

    "No more, no more, uncle."

    Cao Ying refused directly, hiding her hands behind her back. If they tried again, she would refuse to cultivate immortality. It was too painful, who would want to cultivate immortality?

    "Alright, let it be Fire Spiritual Root."

    Lin Jiang answered, but Cao Ying was a Single Spiritual Root genius, so Lin Jiang couldn''t keep her by his side.

    Because he didn''t want to ruin a genius, Lin Jiang knew very well that he had some skills, but when it came to overall ability, he wasn''t much stronger than other independent cultivators, relying mainly on umted experience in drawing symbols.

    Cao Ying following him was truly a waste, like a hidden gem covered in dust. They needed to find her a good teacher.

    "Since you want to apprentice, it''s better to go directly to a big sect. Those famous independent cultivators may not have many advantages."

    Lin Jiang decided in his heart that he would find a big sect for Cao Ying. With her talent, she could join any sect in Yun State. The sects would even want her eagerly. A sect must have a constant flow of talented disciples to remain strong. If there is a gap, the enemy won''t give you a chance, and thepetition between sects is also fierce.

    For finding a big sect, Zhonghang Sect, Cloud Sword Sect, and Five Elements Sect are the best choices. These three sects are the leaders in Yun State. Other sects are not worth considering inparison to them.

    "Uncle?"

    Cao Ying saw Lin Jiang''s face change quickly and asked in worry. Is he going to prick her finger again?

    "Cao Ying, my dear, I agree to your cultivation. I will take good care of your body during these days."

    Lin Jiang said, afraid to teach Cao Ying cultivation prematurely. He worried that some sects might find fault in her. What they wanted was a disciple as pure as a nk sheet of paper.

    But Lin Jiang could help her take care of her body. She could eat more Spirit food to nourish her body and use Spirit medicine for bathing to strengthen her meridians. These are all foundational things.

    In the past, few in the second generation of the Lin family received this treatment from Lin Jiang. However, Lin Jiang''s third and fourth generations, as well as the second generations bornter, all received this treatment because the Lin family had be wealthy at that time.

    And the benefits of doing so are obvious. Lin Jiang''s younger generation progressed much faster during their cultivation, which was a lifelong benefit.

    Lin Jiang has plenty of money now, so he is willing to spend it on Cao Ying. It can also be considered as repaying her parents'' kindness.

    During this time, Lin Jiang also needs to investigate carefully to find out which sect Cao Ying should join. The three major sects each have their own unique advantages, so it must be done carefully.

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67

    Lin Jiang has been in Yunzhong City for many years, but he doesn''t really know much about the three major sects. Lin Jiang thinks that these giants are too far away from him, so there is no need to seriously understand them at all.

    Now, for Cao Ying, Lin Jiang has made serious inquiries. These are not secrets at all, and even the three major sects intentionally promote their own characteristics. It is easy to know what is going on.

    Firstly, all three major sects have outstandingprehensive strength, with no weaknesses, only more advantageous areas. For example, Cloud Sword Sect''s strongest point is its Sword-washing Peak. The disciples on this peak are all sword cultivators, and the cultivation world considers sword cultivators to have the strongest offensive power. The Sword-washing Peak represents Cloud Sword Sect''s highestbat power, probably the highest in Yun State.

    But the strength of other peaks in Cloud Sword Sect should not be underestimated. Any one of them can easily defeat ordinary small-to-medium sects.

    Five Elements Sect, on the other hand, is the most bnced, and their highlight is their proficiency in the Five Elements spells and Spiritual Farmer level. Five Elements Sect has many miraculous spells and is highly renowned.

    Zhonghang Sect is the best in formation techniques, and they are also known for their strong Alchemy. Among all the Alchemists in Yun State, Zhonghang Sect has the most powerful team.

    However, in recent years, Pill King Li Ruoxu has surpassed Zhonghang Sect''s Alchemy skills. So, they don''t talk about it much anymore. Li Ruoxu''s sess is actually quite unexpected. Normally, an independent cultivator shouldn''t be able to surpass a big sect like Zhonghang Sect in Alchemy, because Alchemy requires both talent and experience.

    What is experience? It means practicing for a long time, and it requires a lot of resources. Can an independent cultivator''s resourcespete with those of a big sect?

    But the reality is different. Li Ruoxu''s Alchemy is really stronger than Zhonghang Sect''s. That''s why Zhonghang Sect feels embarrassed and doesn''t emphasize their Alchemy skills anymore.However, Zhonghang Sect is still very strong in Alchemy. Li Ruoxu may be strong, but he is just one person. Zhonghang Sect has a whole team of Alchemists, and they have different levels of proficiency.

    "Cao Ying has a talent for fire-based elemental cultivation, so we can eliminate Cloud Sword Sect as an option. Now, we have to choose between Zhonghang Sect and Five Elements Sect. The Five Elements Sect has strong fire-based spells, and Zhonghang Sect has deep knowledge of fire-based cultivation due to their focus on Alchemy. Which sect is better?"

    Lin Jiang looked at the information of both sects and was still worried. After thinking for a long time, he couldn''t make a decision.

    "Uncle, Uncle, I finished taking a bath!"

    While Lin Jiang was worrying, Cao Ying came running out of the bathroom. During this time, Lin Jiang had bought her a lot of spiritual medicines for her medicinal bath.

    "Put on another jacket so you don''t catch a cold."

    "Put it on, put it on, uncle. When are we going to eat? I''m hungry."

    Cao Ying pouted and said that every time she finished soaking in the medicine bath, she would feel very hungry and could eat three big bowls of spirit rice.

    "It''s ready, on the table. Come and eat."

    Lin Jiang put away the documents and took Cao Ying to eat.

    "Uncle, you''ve been frowning a lottely."

    "It''s all because I''m worried about your future. Uncle was never so worried even when I filled out my college application."

    "What is the college entrance exam, is it roasted meat? Is it tasty?"

    "Eat, eat, eat. All you think about is eating. It really worries me as your old father."

    "Aren''t you my uncle? Why did you be my dad again?"

    "Please eat some more rice and keep your mouth shut, thank you."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. Cao Ying''s personality was nothing like her parents, who were quiet and reserved. This girl, on the other hand, was more like her uncle Zhang Ruifeng, quite a chatterbox. Could it be that a nephew is meant to resemble his uncle?

    "Cao Ying, do you want to go to the Five Elements Sect or Zhonghang Sect?"

    "Where is the Five Elements Sect and where is Zhonghang Sect?"

    "Our Yunzhong City is the territory of Zhonghang Sect. The Five Elements Sect is far away. Even if Uncle rides on Big Shadiao, it will take a whole day to fly there."

    "Then I''ll go to Zhonghang Sect. It''s closer to Uncle, and I cane back to visit him more often."

    "I knew you would say that. Let''s flip a spirit stone. Heads for Zhonghang Sect, tails for the Five Elements Sect. You flip it."

    Lin Jiang took out a spirit stone, cast a spell to transform it into the shape of a coin, and wrote the Chinese character for "╓╨" on one side and the word "╬х" on the other side. He then handed it to Cao Ying.

    "Oh yeah, it''s the Zhonghang Sect."

    Cao Ying casually tossed it, and itnded on the front side. Cao Ying was so happy, she almost jumped up.

    "That doesn''t count, let''s try again."

    "Uncle, you''re cheating."

    "Stop talking and throw it quickly. Otherwise, we''ll only have jerky to eat tonight, nothing else."

    "Hmph."

    Cao Ying immediatelypromised. After being bombarded by Lin Jiang''s food, Cao Ying''s taste buds became picky. She couldn''t just eat in jerky like those two dummies, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, who have eaten it for decades without getting tired of it.

    "Uncle, look, it''s the front side again."

    "Let''s try again."

    "Uncle, don''t y like this."

    "Onest time."

    "Hmmm, hmmm, hmmm."

    Cao Ying was not happy, but still threw it once. This time Lin Jiang was stunned, and itnded on the front side.

    "Cao Ying, tell me honestly, are you a gambling god? Otherwise, it''s impossible to have a fifty percent chance of getting heads three times in a row."

    "Uncle, what is a gambling god? Is it a fairy?"

    "Forget it, I''ll toss it myself."

    Lin Jiang took the spirit stone coin and casually tossed it.

    "Oh my goodness."

    Lin Jiang looked at the spirit stone coin and waspletely speechless, it was still darn positive.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Such was fate, Lin Jiang had no choice but to choose the Zhonghang Sect for Cao Ying. However, before they left, Lin Jiang still told Cao Ying many things, like not talking to outsiders about the matters of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao on Lin Jiang''s side.

    It had been several decades since Lin Jiang killed He Yunwei, but the He family was still around. There must be many people who remembered this matter. Although Lin Jiang could find excuses to cover up the past, what if those people didn''t follow martial virtues and didn''t listen to your exnations? It was better to kill the wrong person than to let them go.

    After preparing for half a month, Lin Jiang finally took Cao Ying to the entrance of the Zhonghang Sect.

    The Zhonghang Sect is arge sect that epts disciples all year round, but their requirements for disciples are high. At the very least, they must have Three Spiritual Roots or show some other talents. Only when there is a shortage of outer disciples and servant disciples do they start arge-scale testing of the mortal Spiritual Roots near the Zhonghang Sect and recruit arge number of them.

    This kind ofrge-scale recruitment is rare. It usually happens once every fifty to sixty years. It is also regr. When the previous batch of outer disciples and servant disciples get old and die, and there is a shortage ofbor, they start recruiting.

    "Is the taoist friend here to test her Spiritual Root?"

    "Yes, but she is not my daughter, she is the daughter of my deceased friend. Her parents have both passed away, and I have adopted her."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I really admire you."

    When the steward responsible for recruiting disciples from Zhonghang Sect heard this, he immediately respected Lin Jiang. Being an independent cultivator is hard, so it''s really kind of him to be willing to bring along a "dragging oil bottle" (someone who is not skilled) with him.

    "I am just doing it as a favor for someone, this is my identification."

    Lin Jiang took out another proof. Zhonghang Sect doesn''t ept just anyone. The most important requirement is to have a clear background and not be involved in any evil ways or be a spy from other sects. So, they need a proof of identity.

    This proof of identity is quite simple. It just proves that Lin Jiang has been living in Yunzhong City for over ten years and is not associated with any evil ways or other sects. It can be verified. If Cao Ying can enter the inner sect and even be a personal disciple, they will need to verify what is stated on the proof. If she is only an outer sect disciple or a servant disciple, this proof is useless, as they will not have ess to the core secrets of Zhonghang Sect.

    "Then, please let the Taoist friend in and let the little girle in for the Spiritual Root test."

    "Cao Ying,e in."

    Lin Jiang waved to Cao Ying and then followed the steward into a room.

    In the room, there was a stone tform with a Baguapass on it. The steward asked Lin Jiang to prick Cao Ying''s finger and let the blood cover her palm. Then, they pressed her hand on the stone tform.

    "It hurts."

    Cao Ying was almost crying. Last time, only a few drops of blood came out, but this time there were many.

    "Fire-type Single Spiritual Root, no no no, there''s also apanion Spiritual Root, wind-type strange Spiritual Root."

    The steward stared at the glowing stone tform and waspletely stunned. Then, he showed a joyful expression.

    "Congrattions, taoist friend, congrattions, taoist friend."

    "Sir steward, is this thepanion Spiritual Root?"

    "Good thing, good thing. The fire rising with the wind, this is great!"

    The steward exined carefully to Lin Jiang. He told Lin Jiang that actually everyone has all five types of Spiritual Roots. The reason why there is talk about Single Spiritual Root and double Spiritual Roots is because some Spiritual Roots are very prominent,pletely overshadowing the existence of other Spiritual Roots.

    The Five Spiritual Roots are when all five types of Spiritual Roots are very prominent, which means there''s no such thing as apanion Spiritual Root.

    Besides the Five Elements Spiritual Root, there are also three other types of Spiritual Roots: wind, thunder, and ice. If these three types of Spiritual Roots are equally outstanding, their talent is on par with a Single Spiritual Root and they are also valued by the sect.

    As the steward spoke, he already activated a Sound Passing Talisman. In no time, a powerful force descended upon this ce.

    "I have met Elder Nn."

    The steward was somewhat surprised, as the outer sect''s Grand Elder Nn De from the Zhonghang Sect had unexpectedlye personally.

    Lin Jiang also looked towards Nn De. He had only witnessed Wen Xing''s matter as a bystander, but he had heard the story of the Nn family many times. However, encountering someone like Nn De, such a prominent figure, was a first for him.

    "No need for many formalities, where is the new disciple?"

    "Elder, this is the new disciple named Cao Ying."

    "Oh, it''s a girl. Good, is her Spiritual Root confirmed?"

    "Elder, we have tested her and confirmed that she has a fire attribute Single Spiritual Root along with a wind attribute variant Spiritual Root."

    "Let''s test again to make sure everything is perfect."

    Nn De said, "The Spirit Measuring tform is notpletely urate, asionally there might be one or two mistakes."

    "Here we go again?"

    As soon as Cao Ying heard this, she became furious. She didn''t want to do it anymore, she just wanted to go home. It hurt so much.

    "Cao Ying, be a good girl, do it one more time. Your hands are already wounded, no need for more cuts. When we go home, I''ll make you delicious food..."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang felt awkward and quicklyforted Cao Ying. After much effort, he finally persuaded her to test again.

    "Okay, okay..."

    Nn De saw the test results and burst intoughter. Lin Jiang knew that everything was going well.

    "Sir Steward, take a look at this..."

    "Taoist friend, most of this matter is settled now. I still have a few questions to ask you. If there are no problems, we can process your admission formalities."

    "Okay, Mr. Steward, please ask."

    Next, the steward asked Lin Jiang many detailed questions, such as whether Cao Ying can read. If not, they would arrange someone to educate Cao Ying. They also asked if Lin Jiang had practiced any martial arts techniques.

    Lin Jiang mostly told the truth, except for hiding Cao Ying''s parents'' situation. He only mentioned that they were ordinary independent cultivators who died in an ident. They didn''t ask much about it because it''s normal for independent cultivators to die in idents.

    "Uncle, when are we going home?"

    "Cao Ying, you are now a disciple of Zhonghang Sect. You can''t go home with your uncle."

    "Ah, Uncle, don''t you want me anymore?"

    "It''s not that I don''t want you..."

    "I want to go home. I don''t want to stay here..."

    Cao Ying started crying loudly, making Lin Jiang feel very ufortable. He felt a bit shy around people.

    The steward, however, wasn''t surprised at all. He tried tofort her with some snacks, but they didn''t have any effect.

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath and directly grabbed Cao Ying, saying, "Mr. Steward, Elder Nn, when Cao Ying was still very young, her parents passed away unexpectedly. She has been with me for nearly ten years, and we have a father-daughter bond. I have indulged her at home, but I know that Cao Ying needs to face challenges to grow and be talented, so she can break free from the Lin family''s control."

    "You are a rational and intelligent person. In my Zhonghang Sect, we will not let her talent go to waste. Don''t worry, I will send someone to take good care of her. Don''te to Zhonghang Sect to see her for the next six months. You can visit after six months."

    Nn De looked approvingly at Lin Jiang. Sometimes, elders spoil their juniors too much, even if they have great talent, they end up being useless.

    "Thank you, Elder Nn."

    "Steward, give him ten times the resettlement fee. I will take him with me."

    "Yes, Elder Nn."

    The steward quickly agreed. As Lin Jiang watched the tearful Cao Ying being taken away by Nn De, his heart ached. It felt like he was back to his emotions when he left the Lin family.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68

    Outside the Zhonghang Sect''s main gate, Lin Jiang walked with three thousand spirit stones in his hand, looking back every three steps. It was a custom of the Zhonghang Sect to provide settlement fees for disciples'' families.

    The low-ranking disciples only receive a few spirit stones. If their families are not cultivators, they may not even receive spirit stones. Instead, they might be given some money or food as a way ofpensation.

    The outer disciples'' families would receive around thirty to fifty spirit stones, while the inner disciples'' families would receive one hundred spirit stones. There was a distinction among the inner disciples as well. If they were exceptionally talented, they could receive three hundred spirit stones.

    As for why Lin Jiang was given ten times the settlement fee, he spected it was because of their backgrounds. Lin Jiang had inquired and learned that half of the disciples recruited by major sects came from affiliated families, simr to the Nn family.

    These disciples already had a camp when they entered the sect. Even if they had outstanding talent, it would be impossible for them to join the rival faction of the Nn family. However, it was different for Lin Jiang, an independent cultivator without any background.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Talented disciples could join any faction, so Nn De purposely formed a rtionship in advance. Three thousand spirit stones were a lot for an independent cultivator. If Cao Ying joined Nn De''s faction in the future, it would be a good thing. Even if it was a different faction, it would still be considered a fortunate connection. Besides, he didn''t have to spend his own money for the settlement fee. Why wouldn''t he take advantage of the sect''s funds?

    "Forget it, forget it. I must remember that I am just a passerby in this mortal world. I must not get too deeply involved."

    Finally, Lin Jiang let out a deep sigh and reminded himself that everyone has their own fate. Cao Ying also has her own life. The Zhonghang Sect will be her best destination, and he should be happy for her.бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Hello, Taoist Friend Lin."

    A monthter, Lin Jiang was walking on the streets of Yunzhong City, when the patrol guards saw him and greeted him warmly. Lin Jiang smiled back in response.

    Several days ago, news of Cao Ying joining the Zhonghang Sect''s inner door spread. First among the disciples of Zhonghang Sect in Yunzhong City, and then Lin Jiang began to receive enthusiastic attention. Whenever Lin Jiang walked on the streets, disciples of the Zhonghang Sect would warmly greet him.

    Lin Jiang felt helpless about this. He didn''t want to receive this kind of attention, but he couldn''t control other people''s will. He could only reduce the number of times he goes out. After all, he usually doesn''t go out much.

    As he arrived at Yui Pavilion, the shopkeeper immediately weed him. Lin Jiang took out a spiritual talisman for him to count. Every ten days or so, Lin Jiang woulde to Yui Pavilion to sell spiritual talismans. He sold them in batches of thirty, which were of the ordinary level made by a Talisman Maker at thete stage of Qi Refining. As for the extra spiritual talismans, Lin Jiang would secretly sell them to other shops after changing his appearance.

    "Shopkeeper Zhang, you gave me too many spirit stones."

    After the shopkeeper of Yui Pavilion counted them, he paid the spirit stones, but Lin Jiang realized that he had given him too many.

    "No mistake. Taoist Friend Lin is also a loyal customer of our Yui Pavilion. Moreover, Taoist Friend Lin''s spiritual talismans are of high quality, abundant in spiritual energy, powerful, and stable. Some of our regr customers specifically ask for Taoist Friend Lin''s spiritual talismans, so we decided to give Taoist Friend Lin a higher price."

    "This way you won''t make any money."

    Lin Jiang said. Spiritual talismans purchased from them only have a profit margin of about ten percent. But now, if he sell them at the retail price, they will be losing money because they still have to consider rent,bor, and other costs.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, it may seem like we''re not making any money, but in reality, we''re not losing. This shop is our own, so we don''t have to pay rent, and there are nobor costs. Plus, Taoist Friend''s spiritual talismans are of good quality, which helps us retain our old customers. When you think about it, we are still making a profit, just a little less."

    "Shopkeeper Zhang, we''ve been doing business together for almost ten years. There''s no need for this. My niece has just joined the Zhonghang Sect, she hasn''t be anyone important."

    Lin Jiang let out a bitterugh. Shopkeeper Zhang was just like him, even when lying, he always prepared in advance.

    "Haha."

    Shopkeeper Zhang awkwardly smiled and went on to say, "It seems Taoist Friend Lin hasn''t received the news."

    "What news?"

    "Taoist Friend, your niece, on the fifth day of her training, she achieved Qi absorption in one night. Three days ago, she already reached the second level of Qi Refining."

    "What is that?"

    Lin Jiang''s body trembled, he touched his ear, did he hear it wrong?

    In just one night, she absorbed Qi into her body and reached the second level of Qi Refining in less than a month. It must be a deception. Lin Jiang, the original owner, took about eight months to sessfully absorb Qi into his body, and it took many years to go from the first level of Qi Refining to the second level. Ah, it''s embarrassing to even think about it.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you heard correctly. In just one night, she absorbed Qi into her body and reached the second level of Qi Refining in twenty-four days. It is said that this has rmed the Nascent Soul Ancestor of the Zhonghang Sect. At least three or more elders of the Nascent Soul level from the Zhonghang Sect want to take her as their disciple. There have been several arguments about it."

    "This joke isn''t funny."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, what''s your reaction? Shouldn''t you be happy?"

    "The main thing is that I know the abilities of my little sister, Cao Ying. She''s not very stupid, but she''s just an ordinary person."

    Lin Jiang said that for the past few years, he had been teaching Cao Ying to read and write and teaching her martial arts, but he didn''t really find her to be a genius.

    "I have an uncle who is an internal steward of the Zhonghang Sect. My uncle''s cousin is in charge of the Shanxue School, which is where the beginners in the Zhonghang Sect learn and cultivate their skills."

    Mr. Zhang said that this matter has caused a sensation in the Zhonghang Sect. The Zhonghang Sect is notcking in talented individuals, but they arecking in top talents. And undoubtedly, Cao Ying is now a top talent.

    Her talent in Spiritual Roots is one aspect, and another aspect is her understanding. In the cultivation world, there are many individuals with excellent talent in Spiritual Roots but poor understanding. Such people have limited potential.

    And Cao Ying has excellent talent in Spiritual Roots and exceptional understanding. As long as she is not harmed midway, she can start at the Building Foundation Period and her potential is limitless. Even Nascent Soul and Soul Changing are possible.

    "I still don''t believe it."

    Lin Jiang said, he was thinking that Cao Ying and Zhang Ruifang are not top talents either. Their talent is only slightly better than his, maybe even simr. Why should their daughter be so outstanding? This doesn''t make sense.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I can''t deceive you. You will be rich in the future."

    Mr. Zhang said that Cao Ying is still young and her value has not been fully realized. When she reaches the Building Foundation and Pill Formation stages, she will be truly formidable. With connections, it will be easy for her to make money in Yunzhong City and buying a house will not be a problem.

    "If it''s true, then I definitely can''t ept your spirit stones, Mr. Zhang. I apologize."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, we have been friends for over ten years."

    "Less than ten years"

    "Cough cough"

    Shopkeeper Zhang''s face turned green. What does it mean? Is he looking down on them just because they are small businesses, not even giving them a chance to tter him?

    "Shopkeeper Zhang, please don''t misunderstand. Business is business, friends are friends. Since Cao Ying is so talented, as her uncle, I can''t hold her back, right?"

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I didn''t mean it..."

    "I know, I know. Old Lin, you rely on your skills, not connections. How about this, from now on, I''ll draw a few extra symbols each month. You''ll earn some, and I''ll earn some. How does that sound?"

    "Alright, then Taoist Friend Lin muste often."

    "Of course, I''m a person who values old rtionships. I''ve enjoyed working with Shopkeeper Zhang, so I will definitelye in the future."

    Lin Jiang said, he really didn''t want to hold Cao Ying back. This money is not easy toe by. Whatever they give you, you''ll have to give double or even more to others in the future.

    Lin Jiang took out some extra magic stones and had a chat with the storekeeper before leaving.

    In the following days, news about Zhonghang Sect recruiting a talented disciple gradually spread. All the independent cultivators envied this, as the rule for cultivators is that when one person achieves enlightenment, even dogs and chickens can ascend to heaven. In Yunzhong City, wealthy people who had connections with the two major sects were everywhere.

    Many people mentioned Lin Jiang, but he kept a low profile and not many knew about his identity. However, within the Zhonghang Sect''s system, Lin Jiang wasn''t a secret.

    When encountering disciples from the Zhonghang Sect while going out, people would greet and interact with them, even offering discounts when shopping at Zhonghang Sect''s stores.

    Of course, this only applied to the Zhonghang Sect. The Cloud Sword Sect wouldn''t care. After all, Lin Jiang wasn''t their disciple. At most, they would exchange pleasantries with him.

    But even so, this brought Lin Jiang great trouble. He had too many secrets, and with such a high level of attention, it could cause big problems for him.

    The most typical example was the Dark Night assassins. Lin Jiang had already dealt with about ten of them. Although Zhang Ruifang rarely went out with Cao Ying in the past, who knew if the Dark Night would know Cao Ying''s name?

    Even though Lin Jiang had long abandoned his identity as Lin Yang, some characteristics were fixed, such as being a Talisman Maker. If someone found Lin Jiang''s previous spiritual talismans andpared them, it would be obvious. Many habits of a Talisman Maker were consistent.

    "Let''s move. Once Cao Ying has confirmed it, we can use the excuse of going on a journey and find a reason to move."

    Lin Jiang made up his mind again. He couldn''t continue using his current identity anymore. Once things settled down with Cao Ying, he would change his identity again. Otherwise, trouble woulde sooner orter.

 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69

    In the blink of an eye, a year had passed since Cao Ying joined Zhonghang Sect. Lin Jiang came to Zhonghang Sect again to visit Cao Ying.

    After going through severalyers of notifications, Lin Jiang was allowed to enter Zhonghang Sect. It was his first time visiting Zhonghang Sect and he kept observing the surroundings.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    When gathering information about Zhonghang Sect before, it was mentioned that the range of the sect''s main entrance was about five hundred miles, but it was not just a simple mountain, it was a continuous range of mountains that made up the main entrance.

    The influence of Zhonghang Sect was even broader, radiating for at least tens of thousands of miles. That''s why it was known as one of the leading powers in the Yun State.

    Everywhere Lin Jiang looked, he saw spiritualnd. There were thousands of spiritual paddies being cultivated, while some ces were covered in mist, making it unclear what was being grown there.

    After walking for about four hours, Lin Jiang finally arrived at the inner gate of Shanxue School. Cao Ying was still a disciple of Shanxue School, a beginner learning the basics of the cultivation world.

    "Uncle"

    Cao Ying saw Lin Jiang and jumped up in excitement. She ran straight towards him and hugged him."Come down,e down, it''s not proper like this."

    Lin Jiang quickly pulled her down. Now, Lin Jiang could feel at least a hundred pairs of eyes watching them, and he knew that there were even more people paying attention to them.

    "Uncle, why did you take so long to visit me? You said you could visit every half a year."

    "I was worried you would bezy, so I wanted you to learn more skills here."

    "But I didn''t bezy at all! I ranked first in Shanxue School!"

    "Really?"

    "Yes, it''s true! They are so slow. Some people have been in Shanxue School for a year and they are still at the Qi Refining level one. I''m already at Qi Refining level three. Even the school master of Shanxue School asked me to slow down and build a strong foundation. Otherwise, maybe I would have reached Qi Refining level four by now and I could fly!"

    "Your school master is right. It''s important to build a strong foundation and not rush things."

    Lin Jiang quickly said, he was extremely tired, one whole year, at the third level of Qi Refining, is this fair? Is the gap between people really greater than the gap between humans and monsters?

    "I know, I have decided, break through in another three months, no rush."

    Cao Ying smiled and said, she had already heard, she reached the fourth level of Qi Refining, she couldn''t stay at Shanxue School anymore, once she left Shanxue School, there would be so many things to do, it''s very annoying, she needed to stay a little longer.

    "How is it here? Have they been bullying you?"

    "No, senior brothers, senior sisters, and our master have all been very nice to me."

    "That''s good."

    Lin Jiang nodded, when you be powerful, the whole world treats you kindly, he understood this very well. Cao Ying isn''t strong yet, but she has incredible potential. Very few foolish people would dare to offend Cao Ying, unless they are absolutely certain they can defeat her in one go.

    "Uncle, I missed you."

    "Missed my cooking, huh?"

    "Ah, you found out!"

    "Let''s find a ce to rest, I brought you some food."

    "Great!"

    Cao Ying took Lin Jiang to her home, where he enjoyed a special treatment as a genius. He had a whole courtyard to himself, while others had to share a dormitory and a small courtyard with three other people.

    Lin Jiang cooked Cao Ying''s favorite dishes, filling up the table quickly. Cao Ying devoured the food in no time. Before she started cultivating her spiritual powers, she could only take a bite, as her body couldn''t handle more. But now that she has reached the third level of Qi Refining, she can eat without worries.

    "I can''t take it anymore. The spiritual energy is too intense. Uncle, please wait for me for two hours. I need to meditate and absorb the spiritual energy."

    After finishing the food, Cao Ying couldn''t resist anymore. She left a quick remark and rushed back to her room to meditate.

    Seeing how Cao Ying managed to close the room''s protective formation despite the urgency of the situation, Lin Jiang nodded approvingly. It seemed that Cao Ying was highly aware of the need for self-protection.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, could we have a conversation?"

    As soon as Cao Ying left, Lin Jiang heard a secret whisper in his ear.

    "Where is the senior?"

    "Right next to you, just turn left when you go out."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded, then went out, turned left, and saw a person waiting for him. He looked to be in his twenties, very handsome.

    "I, Lin Jiang, greet the senior."

    "We are rtives, call me Lin Xuzi."

    "How are you, Senior Lin?"

    "Seems like you don''t recognize me."

    "I''m sorry, I don''t go out much and I don''t know your name."

    "I''m currently at the middle stage of golden core cultivation. My master''s name is Xiao Dingsheng. He is the fifth elder among the thirteen elders of the Zhonghang Sect. My master wants to take your niece as a disciple. Can you help persuade her?"

    Lin Xuzi said with amanding tone. Although he asked for Lin Jiang''s help, his words carried an air of superiority, which Lin Jiang didn''t like.

    "As a Nascent Soul Ancestor''s disciple, why would you need my help as a mere Qi Refining cultivator? As long as you treat Cao Ying sincerely, she will naturally agree."

    "It seems that Taoist Friend Lin doesn''t want to help with this favor."

    "I..."

    "Senior Brother Lin is bullying the junior. If this gets out, it would be quite embarrassing."

    Before Lin Jiang could respond, another voice came. Lin Jiang turned around and saw another handsome young man. Lin Jiang didn''t dare to underestimate him, suspecting that he was also a powerful cultivator at the golden core stage.

    "It''s so lively here! What are you two senior brothers doing?"

    As soon as the words were spoken, a middle-ageddy walked over and smiled at Lin Xuzi.

    "Qin Yan, Li Yunchong, why are you here?"

    "Look, Brother Lin, why can''t Ie to this Shanxue School?"

    "Yeah, even though Brother Lin is busy running Chuangong Hall, I don''t see anything wrong with me taking a stroll here. It''s perfectly reasonable, right?"

    The middle-ageddy was called Qin Yan, and the handsome young man was named Li Yunchong. They echoed each other''s words, making Lin Xuzi look displeased.

    Lin Jiang really wanted to use an invisibility spell, to hide himself. Let the powerful Golden Core cultivators fight among themselves, without involving me, a small fry. I can''t afford that, just a sneeze from them could kill me.

    "Taoist Friend Lin"

    "Here, junior is here."

    "Lin Xuzi wants to take on disciples, and I''m wondering what to do."

    Qin Yan looked at Lin Jiang and said with a smile, Lin Jiang nced at her and suddenly felt dizzy, thinking to himself, "This woman is using tricks on me."

    People who often go to Spring Coming Tower to talk to the fairies know that some fairies have the power of enchantment, they can often charm even strong men and make their pockets and waist empty.

    Lin Jiang, who has also trained as a warrior at Spring Coming Tower for a long time, had no resistance at all at this moment, his willpower was rapidly disintegrated.

    "Ahem"

    Just as this happened, a cough sounded, Lin Jiang trembled all over and instantly regained rity.

    "Qin Sister, using illusions to deal with a master of the golden core stage is already enough, but using it to bully a little Qi Refining stage cultivator, isn''t it too much?"

    "Hmph, can''t I develop interest in him?"

    "If you develop interest in him, I have objections if it''s his niece."

    "Well, what about developing interest in me?"

    Qin Yan looked at Li Yunchong and said, her eyes immediately lit up. This is not a seduction technique, that''s all just basic stuff. What she used was illusion, a very powerful illusion.

    But Li Yunchong turned his head and didn''t look into her eyes, immediately breaking her spell, and said, "Taoist Friend Lin, I am a straightforward person. Let me be honest. The three of us came here for your niece.

    Lin Xuzi''s master is Xiao Dingsheng, the fifth elder. Qin Yan''s master is Ouyang Qing, the thirteenth elder of our Zhonghang Sect. My master is Qi Yunzhao, the third elder of Zhonghang Sect.

    Our masters all see great potential in your niece and want to take her as their personal disciple. What do you think?"

    "Li Senior, I''m afraid I can''t make that decision."

    "You can''t make that decision? That won''t work. We asked Cao Ying, and she said the decision lies with the elders. She didn''t dare to decide, so she pushed it onto you. You have to make a decision for Cao Ying."

    "Um..."

    Lin Jiang was speechless. He really wanted the three of them to leave for a while so he could teach Cao Ying a lesson. This was like ming him for everything. How could they do this to their uncle?

    "Senior, Cao Ying is young and uncertain. She is afraid to hastily agree. As for me, I ampletely in the dark about the situation in Zhonghang Sect. It wouldn''t be responsible of me to make a decision now. How about I have a good talk with Cao Ying first and see what Cao Ying thinks?"

    "Hehe, Taoist Friend Lin makes sense. I''ll wait for Taoist Friend Lin''s good news."

    Qin Yan happily agreed and, when she turned and left, she didn''t forget to whisper a string of secrets to Lin Jiang''s ear.

    Li Yunchong and Lin Xuzi were the same. The three of them made promises to Lin Jiang that were very beneficial.

    "Is thepetition for talents within the Zhonghang Sect really so cruel?"

    Lin Jiang, seeing the three of them leave, wondered if it was the right choice to bring Cao Ying to the Zhonghang Sect. If there was a lot of infighting within the Zhonghang Sect, Cao Ying could easily be a pawn.

    Filled with worry, Lin Jiang waited for Cao Ying toe out again and then asked about Cao Ying''s apprenticeship.

    "Uncle, I''m worried too. They''ve been so good to me, I want everyone to be my masters!"

    Cao Ying gave Lin Jiang a signal and continued talking non-stop. Lin Jiang immediately understood that it wasn''t the time to discuss this.

    The people eavesdroppingughed when they heard this. What a foolish child, wanting to have it all! You wouldn''t even qualify as a servant if it weren''t for your exceptional talent.

    Lin Jiang also took the opportunity to educate Cao Ying about the seriousness of being a personal disciple, telling her not to have unrealistic ideas. But quickly changing the topic, he asked about Cao Ying''s life in Zhonghang Sect.

    Speaking of this, Cao Ying was not tired at all, and she started chattering away, except she didn''t mention those first five days when she cried every day. She wanted to share everything with Lin Jiang that happened afterwards.

 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70

    Cao Ying chattered on and on, telling Lin Jiang about her happy life in Zhonghang Sect. She was the most outstanding among the new disciples in the Shanxue School of Zhonghang Sect. She was far ahead of the second ce and even caught the attention of the leaders in Zhonghang Sect. She felt like a little princess and her days were filled with happiness.

    Lin Jiang originally wanted to educate her about not taking these things for granted, but then he thought about how Cao Ying was only thirteen years old this year, so he held back. Oh well, maybe she won''t be this happy in the future, so let her enjoy each day.

    They talked until it was dark. Lin Jiang was arranged to stay at the guest house of Zhonghang Sect, and the next morning, Cao Ying came early to find Lin Jiang, wanting to show him around Zhonghang Sect.

    "What do you think about bing a disciple?"

    Lin Jiang brought up the topic of bing a disciple. There shouldn''t be anyone eavesdropping now, and even if those golden core ancestors were eavesdropping, Lin Jiang wouldn''t be able to notice. So he didn''t worry too much.

    "I don''t know either, the nicer they are to me, the more scared I be."

    "Why are you scared?"

    "Because they are not my rtives, Uncle treats me well because he is my uncle, but they are not."

    "Makes sense, Xiao Dingsheng, Ouyang Qing, Qi Yunzhao, how well do you know them, and what is their reputation like?""I''ve only been here for a year, where would I know so much? I''ve only heard good things about them."

    "Understood, this is for you."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then took out the same spirit stone coin from before.

    "Uncle, what do I do with this?"

    "Just like when we chose our master in the sect, you toss this spirit stone. Out of the three people, you choose two first. Toss it three times, and whichever one appears twice, eliminate the other one. Then, thest one left is the chosen person. This is called the will of heaven that is hard to defy."

    "You''re so smart, Uncle. Let''s do it this way."

    Cao Yingughed and said. How could she forget about this?

    Meanwhile, Lin Xuzi and the other two watched in silence. They couldn''t believe that something as important as finding a master could be treated so lightly. It seemed that Cao Ying, the uncle, wasn''t a reliable person.

    "Cao Ying, you should cultivate well at Zhonghang Sect. In a couple of years, I''ll be going on a journey."

    "Uncle, where are you going?"

    "I don''t know, but the world is so big. I want to see it for myself."

    "Uncle, please don''t wander around. It''s dangerous outside. Once I have established a strong foundation, I''ll take you along. I''ll protect you then."

    "Hahaha, alright. I''ll wait for you to protect me."

    Lin Jiangughed, but deep down, he felt a little uneasy. This could actually happen, considering Cao Ying''s talents,bined with the training at Zhonghang Sect. It was normal for him to establish a foundation before Lin Jiang, even though he had practiced for over a hundred years, which made him feel like his efforts had been in vainpared to a child of only about ten years old.

    Lin Jiang didn''t stay for a second night at Zhonghang Sect. It was almost time to leave. In the afternoon, he departed from Zhonghang Sect and returned to Yunzhong City.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Time flew by, in the year when Lin Jiang turned one hundred and sixty-two, he finally broke through to the perfect state of Qi Refining. It had taken him a whole one hundred and fifty years of cultivation.

    Lin Jiang couldn''t help but sigh with regret about this. While others could achieve things in just a few years, he had spent one hundred and fifty years. If it wasn''t for some special circumstances, he would have grown old and gray.

    At Star Gathering Tower, Lin Jiang received a high-level reception. The store manager at the Foundation Building stage personally greeted him. This was because just over half a year ago, Cao Ying had be an apprentice to the thirteenth elder of Zhonghang Sect, Ouyang Qing.

    Ouyang Qing was the lowest-ranked Nascent Soul Ancestor in Zhonghang Sect, but her strength was by no means weak. She had two outstanding characteristics that made her unparalleled in Zhonghang Sect.

    The first was her young age. She was only in her early 300s, and ording to the lifespan of a Nascent Soul stage cultivator, as long as she didn''t die prematurely, she could live for another 700 years. Having a long lifespan was an advantage, as she would have enough time to support her own people. The second characteristic was her partner named Chen Mingyang, who was the eighth elder of Zhonghang Sect. Chen Mingyang was also the Pill Hall Master of Zhonghang Sect and considered the best alchemist in recent years. If it weren''t for Li Ruoxu''s recent rise to fame, Chen Mingyang would have been known as the number one alchemist in Yunzhong City.

    By bing an apprentice to Ouyang Qing, Cao Ying had grabbed hold of the opportunity to be associated with two Nascent Soul stage cultivators. As long as Cao Ying didn''t encounter any idents, the probability of advancing to the golden core stage was very high. After all, Cao Ying had natural talent and resources.

    Everyone knew that Cao Ying''s future achievements would be great, so this indirectly brought glory to Lin Jiang once again.

    "Is Taoist Friend Lin here for the Building Foundation Pill?"

    "Yes, after many years of hard cultivation, finally reaching theplete Qi Refining stage, I must give it a try."

    Lin Jiang said, after returning from Ruiyang Mountain, he changed his name again and now goes by Lin Sheng. He also changed his publicly announced age to thirty-five. Now, ten years have passed, so his public age is forty-five. It ispletely reasonable for him to strive for the Building Foundation Period.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, technically speaking, I cannot directly sell this Building Foundation Pill to you."

    "I understand the rules, just let me know when the auction is."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Building Foundation Pills in Yunzhong City are rarely sold directly. Most of them are sold through auctions.

    At first, Lin Jiang didn''t understand why. Later, some elders at the market exined to him. Firstly, auctions can earn more spirit stones. The normal auction price for a Building Foundation Pill is around twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones. However, there are often abnormal situations, such as intense bidding or multiple bidders urgently needing Building Foundation Pills, which can drive the price up to forty or fifty thousand spirit stones. Building Foundation Pills are meant to harvest wealth.

    The second reason is to limit the independent cultivators'' strength. There are arge number of independent cultivators with varying talents and abilities. Although there are capable individuals among them, the major sects don''t want to see too many independent cultivators sessfully reaching the Building Foundation stage. Therefore, the production of Building Foundation Pills is limited, gradually being released through auctions.

    During the Golden Core Period, the major sects took even more extreme measures. They scoured the outside world for treasures that could enhance the Golden Core stage and monopolized items like the Five Elements Golden Fruit. They nted simr elixirs within their sects. It was almost a monopoly on Golden Core treasures.

    However, every few decades or centuries, they would release a small amount of Golden Core treasures. For example, during thest grand celebration in Yunzhong City, there was an auction for the Five Elements Pill, with a remarkably high price. Those who reached theplete Building Foundation stage and wanted to obtain it had to either have backing from a powerful faction or resort to plundering other independent cultivators. This not only harvested the wealth of independent cultivators but also greatly weakened their numbers.

    In those years when there were treasures of pill formation appearing, many cultivators at the independent stage of foundation building would disappear inrge numbers. They were mostly killed by those at the building foundation stage who hadpleted the spirit stone robbery because they needed to gather enough spirit stones to buy treasures.

    "My Taoist friend Lin is reasonable and understanding. I admire that. When there is an auction for the Building Foundation Pill, I will send someone to inform Taoist friend Lin."

    "Thank you, senior."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He didn''t want to exhaust too much of Cao Ying''s favor. If he could spend money to buy things, he would do so as much as possible. After all, there was no hurry.

    However, the matter of Lin Jiang changing his identity had been dyed. Or, if he could reach the building foundation stage within the next fifteen years, he wouldn''t need to change his identity. With his rtionship with Cao Ying, the Dark Night Organization might not dare toy a finger on him. In the past few years, the Dark Night Organization had been attacked by the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, and they killed many people. They were forced to hide and couldn''t even fight back.

    After leaving the Star Gathering Tower, Lin Jiang went straight home. He didn''t go to the Treasure Pavilion. The Star Gathering Tower had given him face because of Cao Ying, but the Treasure Pavilion wouldn''t give him any face.

    Back at home, Lin Jiang took out nk talisman paper and drew talismans, reaching the state ofplete perfection in Qi Refining. His spiritual power and soul once again greatly increased. He could now draw up to twelve talismans every day.

    Another point was that his expenses had significantly decreased. Now that his cultivation had reached the state ofplete perfection in Qi Refining, he no longer needed to consume Spirit Gathering Pills or use Spirit Gathering Formations. He only needed to practice daily and stabilize his cultivation. After a period of time, when his cultivationpletely stopped growing, he could start building his foundation.

    "Including rent, my daily expenses don''t exceed thirty spirit stones. I can save money every day. This feels amazing. My storage bag is starting to fill up again."

    Lin Jiang checked his possessions. Previously, at Ruiyang Mountain, Lin Jiang obtained eighty thousand spirit stones. Combined with his previous savings, he had over one hundred and twenty thousand. In the past decade, he had managed to save over eighty thousand spirit stones. Additionally, he had various items worth tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    Lin Jiang didn''t n to sell all these things, as he was also about to reach the Building Foundation stage. He would need them for himself. Only those that might expose his identity needed to be dealt with.

    "Before reaching the Building Foundation stage, I need to find a way to enhance the strength of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao."

    Lin Jiang nced at the Spirit Beast Bag again. Since reaching the mid-level of the second stage, the growth rate of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao''s strength had slowed down significantly. Despite consumingrge amounts of spiritual meat every day, their cultivation hardly increased. It only slightly improved due to the remaining pieces of Demon Core. However, they hadn''t reached theter stage of the second stage yet.

    "I don''t know the cultivation level of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao''s father, but their mother was in the mid-level of the second stage back then. It should have been entirely possible for them to reach theter stage of the second stage. Reaching the third stage may require some opportunities, but as long as one is willing to invest heavily, it is not impossible. The Aurora Falcon''s lineage is quite high, and Yun State even had a fourth-stageter period Aurora Falcon in the past."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang remembered what he had learned about mythical creatures. The Aurora falcon had great potential for growth. In the Yun State, there was once a powerful Aurora falcon king at the fourth stage, who ruled over a territory. However, the king was ultimately killed by a cultivator.

    In order to improve the strength of Aurora Falcon, it requires a lot of money. For over a hundred years, Lin Jiang has invested countless amounts of money into them. Even though he has reached the point of cutting losses, he still needs to continue investing money. If he can really train them to the third level, he will be unstoppable in the Building Foundation Period level in the future.

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71

    Zhonghang SectгмFei Peak.

    Fei Peak is the residence of Elder Chen Mingyang, one of the eight elders of Zhonghang Sect. Chen Mingyang''s Daopanion, Ouyang Qing, also lives here, along with their disciples.

    Chen Mingyang and Ouyang Qing have only a few personal disciples, totaling about ten people. However, Chen Mingyang has many named disciples, although their status is not as high as personal disciples.

    Cao Ying has been under Ouyang Qing''s tutge for over a year, and her cultivation has reached the fifth level of Qi Refining. It''s not that she can''t progress faster, but Ouyang Qing has been asking her to moderate her cultivation.

    Rapid cultivation progress is not always beneficial as it can lead to weak foundations. During the Qi Refining Period, there are many spells, techniques, and other knowledge to learn. If one ends the Qi Refining Period prematurely, they might neglect these things, which could pose future risks. Therefore, Ouyang Qing requests Cao Ying to slow down her training.

    However, Cao Ying''s aptitude is evident. Despite reducing her training time, she learns other things, like spells, very quickly. It takes others several years to go from learning to mastering a spell, but Cao Ying can achieve mastery in just a month or two, which is astonishing.

    With such talent and charm, Cao Ying receives much care and affection from her senior brothers and sisters at Fei Peak. Moreover, she is not arrogant but rather lively and adorable, making her even more likable.

    "Master, are you there?"

    One day, Cao Ying came to Chen Mingyang''s room where he makes potions and shouted loudly."Little junior sister, Master is busy with alchemy. What do you need?"

    Chen Mingyang''s disciple opened the door and spoke to Cao Ying in a gentle manner. If someone disturbed Chen Mingyang while he was doing alchemy, they would get scolded badly.

    "When will Master finish making potions? I need to speak with him."

    "It will take a little while, probably an hour. What do you need from my Master?"

    "I won''t tell you, hehe."

    "Little junior sister, my Master is very busy. He may not see you."

    "If he doesn''t see me, I will goin to him and make him punish you."

    Cao Ying put her hands on her hips, behaving very arrogantly. Chen Mingyang''s disciple was speechless. The little junior sister had power, even though she had only been here for a little over a year, she had found out about Chen Mingyang''s weak spot.

    "Cao Ying,e in."

    A voice came from the Alchemy Room, and Cao Ying chuckled as she immediately walked into the Alchemy Room.

    "Junior Martial Sister, don''t go into the inner room. There is a strange fire inside that your Qi Refining Period can''t withstand. Don''t get hurt, just wait here."

    Chen Mingyang''s disciple stopped Cao Ying. The temperature inside the alchemy room was extremely high. Only after he reached the Building Foundation stage was he allowed to enter. He had to maintain his protective aura to avoid being harmed by it. It was possible that Cao Ying, at the Qi Refining Period, would be burned before reaching the front.

    Cao Ying didn''t barge in. She waited until Chen Mingyang finished alchemy before seeing him. Chen Mingyang appeared to be around forty, with a disheveled appearance. His hair and beard were messy, and his clothes were wrinkled. Standing next to the stunningly beautiful Ouyang Qing, they lookedpletely mismatched.

    However, Chen Mingyang didn''t care about his appearance. He was obsessed with alchemy and as long as it didn''t hinder his alchemy, he didn''t care about anything else.

    "Master, master, I made some delicious food. Please try it quickly."

    Upon seeing Chen Mingyang, Cao Ying immediately took out several baskets from her storage ring. Inside were piping hot dishes, with delicious colors and aromas.

    "Cao Ying, it''s not embarrassing to not know how to cook, but don''t lie to me. These are clearly the specialty dishes of the masters from the inner Shanshi Canteen. When did you start making them yourself?"

    Chen Mingyang sat down and started eating, but he couldn''t help but mention Cao Ying''s cooking. What she made, seriously, the famous dishes from Shanshi Canteen that those master chefs are known for, he has been eating them for decades, you know.

    "Master, I spent my spirit stones on this, I bought it, isn''t it mine? No difference."

    Cao Ying wasn''t the least bit guilty about her cooking being pointed out, on the contrary, she felt justified and confident. If she spent the money, then it''s hers, right?

    "Alright, alright, it''s yours. Little Cao Ying, I can feel your filial piety. So, why is Little Cao Ying being so kind today? Trying to ask for something from Master?"

    "Master, you''re really smart. I want to ask you for a few Building Foundation Pills, not too many, maybe ten or eight will do."

    "Are you nning to eat Building Foundation Pills like food? And you want ten or eight of them?"

    "Three or five would also be fine."

    "With just one meal, you couldn''t even exchange for the dregs of a Building Foundation Pill. And you want to exchange for three or five?"

    "Oh, Master, please help me out. In the future, I will praise you more in front of my master."

    "Do I need your praise?"

    Chen Mingyang frowned, feeling unhappy. He believed he was intelligent and talented, so why would he need others'' praise?

    "Really? Who got kicked out of the room by my masterst month?"

    "Ahem, it''s none of a child''s business, mind your own business."

    "Master..."

    Cao Ying''s first n failed, so she tried another n. She directly activated her coquetry mode and approached Chen Mingyang from behind, giving him a shoulder squeeze and a leg punch.

    "No, no, no, I can''t handle this. Just tell me, what do you need the Building Foundation Pill for?"

    Chen Mingyang fell for it. He and Ouyang Qing didn''t have children, not because they didn''t want to, but because they were too afraid.

    The higher the cultivator''s cultivation level, the more difficult it is for them to have children. This is because the baby needs to absorb the mother''s nutrients inside the mother''s body, but the cultivator''s body naturally rejects it at the Nascent Soul stage. Female cultivators at this stage have to pay a heavy price to give birth to descendants. Not only does their cultivation progress stop, but it may even regress.

    Therefore, female cultivators at or above the Nascent Soul stage hardly give birth, unless it is true love that knows no bounds. In fact, female cultivators at the Golden Core Period also have fewer children.

    It is because they don''t have children themselves that Chen Mingyang and Ouyang Qing both love children very much, especially the younger and cuter ones.

    Cao Ying is lively and adorable, it''s true. She is still young, only fourteen years old. In front of their ancient ancestors who are hundreds of years old, there isn''t much difference between her and a baby.

    The identity of a personal disciple in the cultivation world is very serious. When a disciple apprentices oneself to a master, it is treated like the rtionship between a parent and child. "One day as a teacher, lifelong as a father" is not just empty words. Like the previous masters Cao Ying had at the Shanxue School, they had a normal student-teacher rtionship. But here, the master treats a personal disciple as a potential sessor, and sometimes the personal disciple''s status might even surpass that of their own children.

    Chen Mingyang and his wife treat Cao Ying as their own daughter. When Chen Mingyang saw Cao Ying starting to act spoiled, he couldn''t resist being kind-hearted.

    "Master, a few days ago I heard from Martial Uncle Jiang that my uncle has been searching everywhere to buy Building Foundation Pills. Master, you also know that I grew up without parents since I was young, and it was my uncle who took care of me through thick and thin. It was not easy. I still remember when I was eight years old..."

    Cao Ying immediately began her performance, cruelly pinching herself on the thigh and forcibly squeezing out a few tears, starting to sob.

    "Stop! Where did you learn these messy things, and who taught you?"

    "Master, I haven''t performed yet, ah, no, I haven''t finished speaking yet."

    "You tell me who taught you this, I have to break his leg."

    "I read it in my book."

    "Um, read less of those messy books. If you have no books to read,e to my room. I have the mostplete foundation of alchemy in Yun State, and my many years of alchemical experience."

    Chen Mingyang rolled his eyes. Zhonghang Sect definitely didn''t have these messy books. It must be Cao Ying who read them recklessly when she was in Yunzhong City. Probably books bought by her uncle, it''s not nice to scold someone''s uncle.

    "Okay, Master, then the Building Foundation Pill..."

    "Just a Building Foundation Pill, do you have to work so hard? Go find your senior brothers, they definitely have extras with them."

    Chen Mingyang said, his several disciples were the core of alchemy in Zhonghang Sect. Outside, they were also advanced alchemists. Just a Building Foundation Pill, they wouldn''t care about it.

    "Wow, great! Then, goodbye, Master."

    "Don''t stop massaging my shoulders yet, it''s only been a few times."

    "I''ll go tell Master and ask him to give you a shoulder rub. I''ll leave first."

    Without looking back, Cao Ying ran away quickly. Chen Mingyang''s face turned dark, asking Ouyang Qing to give him a shoulder rub. It would probably turn him into a ball, even if he had three times the courage.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "35,000, 35,000 spirit stones, with no additional bids from any taoist friend. This Building Foundation Pill belongs to this taoist friend."

    In the Star Gathering Tower auction, Lin Jiang sat among the crowd wearing a cloak, watching the Building Foundation Pill''s price rise from 20,000 to 35,000. He didn''t bid any further.

    It''s not that he couldn''t afford the price, but he didn''t want to be a fool. Including themission fee, it would cost around 40,000 spirit stones, which exceeded Lin Jiang''s bottom line.

    "ng"

    "Congrattions to taoist friend number 74 for winning the Building Foundation Pill. Pleasee to the backstage for the handover. Now, we move on to the next item for auction..."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    After a while, seeing no one else bidding, the auctioneer put down the hammer and announced the end of this auction. The Building Foundation Pill was won by the mysterious person in cloak, number 74.

    After finishing the auction for the Building Foundation Pill, Lin Jiang quietly left. The Star Gathering Tower is the topmercial establishment in Yunzhong City, and they usually auction around ten Building Foundation Pills each year. If he didn''t seed this time, he could juste back next time. He had plenty of time to spare.

    Returning the cloak, Lin Jiang quietly went home. On the way, he nced at Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. They were already in a deep sleep. A few days ago, Lin Jiang secretly went to the fake ck market in the city and bought a Demon Core. He split it in half and gave it to them to consume. They ate it and fell into a deep sleep. He didn''t know when they would wake up.

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72

    "Uncle, please open the door. It''s Cao Ying."

    Early in the morning, Cao Ying appeared in Yunzhong City. She knocked on Lin Jiang''s door. Lin Jiang scanned the area with his senses and confirmed that it was indeed Cao Ying. However, she had someone with her, so he quickly put away Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    "Cao Ying, why have youe back?"

    "Senior Qикn, you''re here too."

    Lin Jiang opened the door and saw Qin Yan beside Cao Ying. He quickly bowed in greeting.

    "The junior apprentice sister insisted on going home to visit, and our master was worried. He asked me to keep an eye on her."

    "Senior Ouyang is kindly inviting you toe in."

    Lin Jiang quickly invited the two inside. Cao Ying indeed needed protection, otherwise with her talent and understanding, she would''ve faced countless jealousies and might even be attacked.

    Qin Yan entered Lin Jiang''s house and frowned slightly. The house was so small and run-down, which she wasn''t used to. In Zhonghang Sect, she had her own independent cave dwelling. With her golden core cultivation, her dwelling could be as big as ten acres. Lin Jiang''s ce, at most, was seventy square meters and couldn''t be anyrger."Please excuse the shabby ce."

    "You can move to the north of the city in the future."

    "I will definitely go if there is an opportunity."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The northern part of Yunzhong City was the rich area of the city, with significantly fewer buildingspared to the other three locations. The average residential area per person wasrge, naturally making the prices much higher.

    However, Lin Jiang would definitely go because he needed to break through to the Building Foundation Period, which required an environment with abundant spiritual energy. The Spirit Gathering Formation could solve this problem, but it needed to continuously install spirit stones. As Lin Jiang was alone and unable to change the spirit stones during his closed-door meditation, he could only rent a cave dwelling with sufficient spiritual energy, and the ones in the north of the city were his target.

    "Uncle, I miss your cooking."

    "Okay, I''ll make it for you right away. Please wait a moment and I will serve your sister."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said, he really loved Cao Ying. After all, he was over a hundred years old and he liked children.

    Lin Jiang tied on an apron, entered the kitchen, cooked a few dishes, and brought them out for Cao Ying to enjoy. Cao Ying ate happily.

    "You have good skills. You can work at Shanshi Canteen in Zhonghang Sect."

    "Sister, can you help my uncle get a job at Shanshi Canteen?"

    "No, he is not a disciple of our sect."

    "Oh, can you please ask our master for help?"

    "Even our master can''t do that. Shanshi Canteen is an important ce for our sect, not just anyone can enter."

    Qin Yan shook her head. Many disciples of Zhonghang Sect still need to eat. If bad people entered Shanshi Canteen, it would be a disaster. They could wipe out all of their lower-level disciples. That''s why Shanshi Canteen in Zhonghang Sect must only have people with a clean background, meaning several generations have been part of Zhonghang Sect.

    "Cao Ying, I don''t want to go to the Zhonghang Sect either. I''m used to being an independent cultivator, enjoying freedom. Please don''t bother the seniors."

    "Alright, uncle. This time I came back to bring you a good present."

    "What good present?"

    "A Building Foundation Pill, look..."

    Cao Ying took out a jade bottle and poured out a Building Foundation Pill from inside.

    "Five?"

    Lin Jiang was shocked when he saw the Building Foundation Pill. All of a sudden, five Building Foundation Pills?

    "Yes, five. My master, Chen Mingyang, is the Pill Hall Master of the sect. He has five disciples, so I asked each of them for a Building Foundation Pill. Unfortunately, two of my master''s disciples are not skilled enough to refine the pill, otherwise I could have asked for two more."

    "Little Ying, about this..."

    Lin Jiang was a bit perplexed. He wondered if Cao Ying''s cards were really that powerful. Weren''t the Building Foundation Pills very expensive?

    Qin Yan shook her head and said, "Taoist Friend Lin should put it away. It''s a show of filial piety from our junior sister."

    "This is way too valuable."

    "It''s not expensive. Independent cultivators like you would have to spend twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones to buy a Building Foundation Pill. But for us, the total cost of making one pill is only twenty thousand spirit stones. And let me tell you, our senior brothers are skilled at alchemy. They can make a minimum of eight pills."

    Qin Yan exined, "The retail price is different from the cost price. The retail price includes various expenses. Their alchemists can make a Building Foundation Pill for only two to three thousand spirit stones. And those disciples under Chen Mingyang are at least in thete stage of building foundation. Two or three thousand spirit stones mean nothing to them."

    "I feel unworthy of this."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, but his eyes couldn''t help but stay fixed on the Building Foundation Pill. In the past few auctions, the final cost for each pill was around forty thousand spirit stones. Five pills would amount to nearly two hundred thousand spirit stones. That was a huge sum for independent cultivators.

    Lin Jiang could confirm that more than 95% of the Qi Refining Period independent cultivators in Yunzhong City couldn''t earn two hundred thousand spirit stones in twenty years. Most of them were living in extreme poverty.

    One could see the living conditions around by looking at the housing situation. It wasmon for three to five people to live in a fifty to sixty square meter house. Some extreme cases would even have seven or eight people. If one didn''t know any better, they would think they had entered a sweatshop. Was this still cultivation?

    "You have taken care of your younger apprentice sister. This is her way of showing her gratitude. Don''t feel guilty. Taoist Friend Lin, please ept it and don''t waste your apprentice sister''s filial piety."

    Qin Yan couldn''t possibly not understand the meaning behind Lin Jiang''s words. It was just a polite gesture, and she immediately gave Lin Jiang an easy way out.

    "Yes, uncle, please ept it quickly. You''re about to sessfully establish the building foundation. I hope to still be able to taste the meals you cook a hundred years from now."

    "Alright, I happen to need the Building Foundation Pill. I''ll ept it then."

    Lin Jiang said with reserve, feeling even embarrassed by his own hypocrisy. It was clear that he wanted it so much.

    "It''s been many years since I''ve been to Yunzhong City. I''ll go for a walk. You all stay at home and don''t let Cao Ying go out, okay?"

    "I understand, don''t worry."

    Lin Jiang nodded solemnly. Ouyang Qing asked Qin Yan to protect Cao Ying for a reason. Lin Jiang wasn''t that foolish.

    After Qin Yan left, Cao Ying could speak more freely with Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang also advised Cao Ying that in Zhonghang Sect, one should be cautious with their words and actions. It''s okay to be sweet-tongued, but don''t say too much. It''s fine to do more tasks and bear small losses, but when ites to bottom lines and core interests, one must not give an inch.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Cao Ying didn''t spend the night at home and left the next day. Usually, disciples who are new and have only been practicing for a few years are not allowed to leave the sect for their own safety. But this time, Ouyang Qing made an exception for her.

    After Cao Ying left, Lin Jiang looked at the five Building Foundation Pills and got very excited. He had lived for over a hundred years, and raising Cao Ying was his most rewarding investment. Just from these Building Foundation Pills, he made a big profit.

    In the evening, Lin Jiang treated himself at the Spring Coming Tower. After about ten days, he still attended the auction at the Star Gathering Tower. He had to maintain his appearance and couldn''t be too careless just because he had the Building Foundation Pills.

    At the auction, Lin Jiang didn''t bid on the Building Foundation Pills once the price went over thirty thousand spirit stones. He was just there to be a spectator.

    After the auction, Lin Jiang went to the north of the city. As soon as he entered, everything felt different. The buildings here were no longer crowded, small, and rundown. Instead, they were luxurious mansions, with three courtyards, five courtyards, even eight courtyards.

    The people on the street had a higher cultivation level. Very few were in the early stage of Qi Refining, and most were in the Building Foundation Period. Sometimes, he even saw people in the Golden Core Period.

    Not only were the buildings in the north of the city luxurious, but there were also mountains. Other ces used to have mountains too, but they were ttened long ago, turned into densely-packed buildings maximizing resources. Moving mountains and seas was not difficult for cultivators.

    The mountains in the north of the city were the source of spiritual energy for Yunzhong City, and they couldn''t be destroyed. However, Yunzhong City had opened up caves in the mountains and rented them out.

    Lin Jiang asked around and learned that the caves in the north of the city were divided into four levels: sky, earth, mysterious, and yellow. The sky-level caves were even suitable for Nascent Soul stage elders to practice in. The Nascent Soul ancestors who guarded Yunzhong City for Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect lived in the sky-level caves.

    The earth-level caves were suitable for those in the Golden Core Period to live in. Most of the high-ranking people in Yunzhong City lived in this area. The mysterious and yellow-grade caves were sufficient for daily cultivation in the Foundation Building Period. The concentration of spiritual energy in the mysterious and yellow-grade caves was simr, but the size, decoration, and price were different.

    The rent for the caves in the north of the city was quite high. For a yellow-grade cave with a size of less than twenty square meters, the annual rent was five thousand spirit stones. With this price, one could rent a nearly one hundred square meter house in the most crowded South City or a one hundred and fifty square meter house in West City.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    However, even so, there was still a high demand for the caves in the north of the city. There were no empty yellow-grade or mysterious-level caves. Lin Jiang couldn''t help but sigh at the huge wealth disparity in this world. While ordinary independent cultivators were still struggling in poverty, the independent cultivators here were already so wealthy.

    Lin Jiang left a deposit and reserved a cave to rent for eight months. Once he moved in after eight months, Lin Jiang was ready to officially start his breakthrough.

    After returning home, Lin Jiang started collecting information on breaking through the Foundation Building Period. He was far from reaching this stage in his cultivation before, so he didn''t pay much attention to it. But now, he was ready to prepare.

    The most important aspect of breaking through from the Qi Refining Period to the Foundation Building Period waspressing the spiritual energy in the dantian from its gaseous state to a liquid state. This process required the use of Foundation Building Pills to provide powerful pressure of spiritual energy. However, it may damage the meridians, so the auxiliary pills for foundation building included some pills that protected the meridians.

    If conditions allowed, one could seek the guidance of their elders to protect them. If the meridians became chaotic, there was a risk of demonic possession. However, Lin Jiang couldn''t find a reliable elder in the Foundation Building Period to guide him, so he could only prepare more pills.

    The Foundation Building Pills that Cao Ying brought were a great help to Lin Jiang. They saved him a great deal of spirit stones, allowing him to have enough funds for adequate preparation. Otherwise, he would have to find a way to raise more money.

    Eight monthster, Lin Jiang celebrated his 163rd birthday all by himself and sessfully moved into the yellow grade cave in the north of the city, getting ready to build a foundation.

 Chapter 73

    Chapter 73

    Yunzhong City, Cave No. 36 in the north of the city with a yellow sign

    In front of Lin Jiang were five jade bottles lined up, each containing a Building Foundation Pill. There were also a row of supporting elixirs that matched the Building Foundation Pill.

    The cave''s management staff saw that Lin Jiang had reached the perfect stage of Qi Refining and guessed that he was going to make a breakthrough. They kindly reminded him to set up a Spirit Gathering Formation in the cave to increase the concentration of spiritual energy by producing more spirit stones.

    This ce had experienced incidents where experts at the golden core stage absorbed all the surrounding spiritual energy, causing trouble for other cultivators in the cave. The management wouldn''t intervene in such matters, as it was a matter of personal cultivation. If one''s cultivation was inferior to others, there was no way to seek justice.

    Therefore, as soon as Lin Jiang moved in, he immediately set up a Spirit Gathering Formation. Every two hours, he would put in thirty spirit stones to be refined by the formation until he had refined a total of one thousand five hundred spirit stones. By then, the cave was filled with dense spiritual energy like fog, and he stopped.

    "Start building foundation."

    After making all the necessary preparations, Lin Jiang began the building foundation process. He swallowed the Building Foundation Pill and a powerful spiritual force surged out from inside it. Without Lin Jiang needing to actively refine it, the spiritual energy flowed along his meridians and gathered in his elixir field.

    Meanwhile, Lin Jiang''s lower abdomen was already full, and the continuous influx of spiritual energy was beingpressed. Lin Jiang used his divine consciousness and actively participated, elerating thispression process.

    Under the immense pressure of spiritual energy, Lin Jiang''s lower abdomen began to be damaged. The lower abdomen is the convergence point of the human body''s meridians. If the lower abdomen is damaged, it will also affect the meridians, causing problems with the flow of spiritual energy. Most importantly, if the lower abdomen cannot be repaired in time, the spiritual pressure caused by the Building Foundation Pill will leak out, and liquefaction cannot bepleted. This is the most critical point of Building Foundation.With a movement of his divine consciousness, Lin Jiang caught a pill that protected his meridians and swallowed it. He started multitasking, increasing the spiritual pressure while repairing the damage to his lower abdomen.

    "Plop"

    However, seven dayster, Lin Jiang still coughed up a mouthful of blood. His lower abdomen was damaged and couldn''t be repaired in time. The spiritual pressure leaked out, impacting the meridians and causing the failure of the Building Foundation.

    "I knew it."

    Lin Jiang sighed. With his Five Spiritual Roots talent, if he had seeded in the first attempt at Building Foundation, that would have been truly unbelievable.

    Lin Jiang wiped away the blood from the corner of his mouth, stood up and stretched, then took out a prepared healing pill to treat his injuries. He had rented this cave for three years and had no shortage of Building Foundation Pills. He still had a chance.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Three monthster, Lin Jiang''s meridian injuries were healed. After another half a month of preparation, Lin Jiang attempted Building Foundation once again.

    "Puff"

    Ten dayster, Lin Jiang failed his second attempt at building a foundation, and this time he was even more injured.

    But Lin Jiang''s anger was also ignited, and he couldn''t believe it. Even with five Building Foundation Pills, he couldn''t build a foundation.

    After half a year of recuperation and another month of meditation, Lin Jiang began his third attempt at building a foundation.

    "Puff"

    "I''m freaking amazed by my own ipetence as the Sixth Brother."

    The third failure dealt a heavy blow to Lin Jiang, and he finally admitted defeat.

    After a year of recuperation, Lin Jiang tried again. This time, he had a better grasp, and the previous three failures were not in vain.

    No matter how much breakthrough experience the outside world provided, it couldn''tpare to him gaining practical experience himself. With each failure, Lin Jiang learned from it, and his dantian and meridians were greatly strengthened after multiple attempts.

    Themon independent cultivators, and even disciples of sects and ns, would never get another chance if they fail. Most of the time, it''s because they don''t have the opportunity to get a second Building Foundation Pill, or because they''re over sixty years old and their vitality declines, affecting their control over their bodies and decreasing their sess rate. The families and sects behind them are not willing to invest resources in them anymore.

    So, for some people with special status, as long as they are willing to invest a huge amount of resources, they can stack their cultivation to the Building Foundation Period.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Sess!"

    After two years of seclusion, and consuming four Building Foundation Pills, Lin Jiang looked at the small droplet of liquid spiritual power in his dantian, feeling a sense of contentment and satisfaction spreading throughout his body.

    It was not easy at all. Many independent cultivators can''t even get one Building Foundation Pill, yet he spent four of them. ording to market prices, that''s over ten thousand.

    In addition to the Spirit Gathering Formation spirit stones, rent, healing pills, and more used in these two years, he has already spent around one hundred and seventy to eighty thousand spirit stones for building the foundation. If you include the loss of wages during these two years, it would be even higher.

    Going through such a difficult process naturally made Lin Jiang sigh with emotion. This sense of satisfaction is something that can only be understood by one who has experienced it personally.

    "Keep up the good work, aim higher!"

    After going out to buy food and drink to celebrate, Lin Jiang returned to his practice. He had just made a breakthrough, but his progress was not stable yet, so he needed time to strengthen his skills.

    This strengthening process took a year. After a year, when the rent for his dwelling expired, the caretaker came to ask Lin Jiang if he wanted to continue renting the cave. Lin Jiang refused and packed up his things to leave.

    Two dayster, Lin Jiang appeared outside the gate of Zhonghang Sect. Before long, Cao Ying came running from the gate.

    "Uncle!"

    When Cao Ying saw Lin Jiang, she jumped up with joy. In the past two years, she had quietly visited Lin Jiang in Yunzhong City, but each time she didn''t see him. She knew he was in seclusion, so she didn''t want to disturb him.

    "Little Ying, are you building your foundation?"

    As Lin Jiang saw Cao Ying, the first thing he noticed was her progress in her training. He was amazed to find out that Cao Ying had also reached the foundation building stage.

    "Yes, Uncle. I made the breakthrough two months ago."

    "So fast?"

    "Master said I am also very fast, why did it take you so long for Building foundation? Ipleted it in just half a month."

    "Half a month..."

    Lin Jiang was choked and couldn''t speak. The satisfaction ofpleting Building foundation a year ago had vanishedpletely. Is it really so frustrating topare oneself with others? He had spent two years, while others only took half a month.

    "Uncle, what''s wrong?"

    "Nothing, you''ve been practicing for only five years, right?"

    "Five years and seven months."

    "Five years and seven months..."

    Lin Jiang pondered, trying to recall what state he was in when he had practiced for five years and seven months. Oh, right, the original owner had just gone crazy and died not long ago, and he was still at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He didn''t want to think about it, didn''t dare to reminisce, how embarrassing.

    "Uncle, why did youe to find me this time?"

    "Goodbye to you, I told you a few years ago that the world is so big, and I wanted to go see it. But because of some unexpected events, I kept dying. Now, I am in the beginning stages of my journey and it''s time for me to go out and explore."

    "Uncle, where are you going?"

    "I don''t know yet, just going to take a look around."

    "But it''s so dangerous outside."

    "It''s okay, Uncle is capable of taking care of himself."

    Lin Jiang and Cao Ying chatted casually like this. He had long wanted to give up his current identity because being involved with Cao Ying attracted too much attention. Now that Cao Ying is not even eighteen yet and already making progress, it will definitely attract even more attention, making it more inconvenient for Lin Jiang to act in the future.

    Lin Jiang didn''t join the Zhonghang Sect again. He chatted with Cao Ying outside the mountain gate for a while, and after giving some instructions, Lin Jiang flew away.

    But instead of going to another ce, he flew into the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range. The area within thousands of miles in the Yunzhong Mountain Range is a paradise for independent cultivators.

    It''s unclear what the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are thinking. They don''t im this territory for themselves, nor do they allow their affiliated followers to upy it, and they even don''t permit the powerful independent cultivators in Yunzhong City to im it. They simply let many independent cultivators gather there.

    The middle part of Yunzhong Mountain Range is veryrge, with many independent cultivators, and it''s extremely chaotic. Even the slightly better mountain peaks have changed ownership multiple times. It''s not a matter of buying and selling, but rather direct seizing. If you have the ability, you upy it; if you don''t, someone else takes it.

    Lin Jiang wouldn''t actively engage in robbery, so he didn''t steal from others. He wandered around for a few days and found an abandoned cave. The defensive formation of the cave had already been broken, and the original owner probably died inside. Anyway, Lin Jiang cleaned up several skeletons.

    After setting up a new defensive formation, Lin Jiang tidied up the cave and considered it his new home.

    "The concentration of spiritual energy is a bit weak, only enough for Qi Refining Period cultivation. It takes three days of gathering with the Spirit Gathering Formation to have enough spiritual energy for one day of practice."

    Lin Jiang tried cultivating and found that the concentration of spiritual energy was very weak. However, he could gather spiritual energy with the Spirit Gathering Formation and add some spirit stones, which was enough.

    "The gardening instinct has kicked in. These overgrown weeds look ufortable."

    The next morning, Lin Jiang looked at the grass in front of his house and couldn''t help feeling that it was a waste. He needed to nt something.

    So, Lin Jiang went to Yunzhong City again and bought another set of formations. He covered half of the mountain peak in front of his house and spent two days opening up over a hundred acres ofnd. He nted some vegetables, but mainly focused on nting precious medicinal herbs.

    The medicinal herbs didn''t require much management because Lin Jiang wasn''t expecting a high yield. If a few could survive, that would be enough. However, the few acres of vegetables needed to be taken care of so that he could strive for self-sufficiency in the future.

    "Big Shadiao, Small Shadiao, you''ve kept watch until the clouds parted and revealed the moon."

    Lin Jiang pped his head, almost forgetting about Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. After sleeping for over two years, they finally woke up and sessfully advanced to theter stages of the second rank.

    "Chirp chirp."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao happily chirped a few times, then spread their wings and flew high.

    "Bang."

    "Bang."

    But when they flew to a height of about a hundred meters, they flew straight into the defensive barrier of the formation, almost falling down. Angry, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao pped their wings, wanting to attack the barrier, but Lin Jiang quickly stopped them.

    "That''s enough, don''t push your luck. Think about where you used to live. It was so small."

    Lin Jiang pressed them down and educated them, about how small the house in Yunzhong City was. It was only a few tens of square meters, and that''s not even ounting for the size of the house itself. It had such a tiny courtyard that they could reach the end with only a few steps on the ground.

    And now, Lin Jiang''s territory is at least around a thousand acres. They can do whatever they want, but they won''t let them fly freely. Lin Jiang won''t let them out.

    "Chirp chirp..."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were so angry that they cursed, as if saying, "We are the kings of the sky, what''s the big deal about trapping us on this small hill? Are you kidding me?"

    "We don''t care about you, go y by yourselves. Just don''t attack our formation, or else we''ll take care of you."

    Lin Jiang rolled its eyes at them. It was already generous enough to do that; they shouldn''t push their luck.

    "The most important thing now is to increase our ie. The expenses during the Building Foundation Period are not small."

    Lin Jiang pondered alone. The medicine used during the Building Foundation Period was called the True Spirit Pill. In Anhua City, it is sold for thirty spirit stones, but in Yunzhong City, the price soars to fifty spirit stones. However, the True Spirit Pill in Yunzhong City is better, so it''s worth the price increase.

    Following Lin Jiang''s usual practice of practicing for four hours each day, it would consume one True Spirit Pill every two days. Plus, taking a two-day break to expel toxins, about eight True Spirit Pills are needed each month, which is four hundred spirit stones. Adding other various expenses, thousands of spirit stones are needed each year.

    Fortunately, Lin Jiang no longer lives in Yunzhong City. There''s still three to four thousand yuan left in rent, and the supporting spirit tools have already been taken care of. Otherwise, it would be even more expensive and could deplete the remaining savings of Lin Jiang.

    "Second level spiritual talisman, you must master the techniques of the second level spiritual talisman."

    Lin Jiang set a goal for himself, within three years, to master the refining techniques of the second level spiritual talisman. He wanted his ie to be greater than his expenses for future ns.

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74

    In the middle part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, inside a cave belonging to the Lin family at the Building Foundation Period, several Taoist friends were discussing and studying.

    Humans are social creatures, and this statement is absolutely true. Despite being introverted, Lin Jiang still needed some social interaction. So when other Building Foundation Period practitioners in the middle part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range actively approached him, he didn''t refuse. Slowly, he became familiar with a few cultivators.

    These gatherings would be held regrly, once every two months, at a ce called Sun Man''s house. Sun Man was a second level alchemist and could refine True Yuan Pills. He didn''t want to sell his pills tomercial establishments that would exploit him, so he made many friends instead. Basically, his friends would consume his pills.

    Lin Jiang bought a few times, but he found that the quality of Sun Man''s pills was slightly inferior to those from themercial establishments in Yunzhong City. So he stopped buying and lied, iming that he had made an agreement with other alchemists. Every time he came, he primarily discussed matters rted to cultivation and also learned about the outside world.

    "Today, let''s end the discussion here. Let''s chat and exchange information."

    "Let''s discuss what''s new this time."

    "Let me tell you one. The fishermen near Yuntuo River know about it."

    "Oh yeah, what''s going on?"

    "Several decades ago, I forgot how many years exactly, the Giant Wave Fish Gang took over the territory of the Trident Fish Gang. But starting fromst year, a remarkable descendant of the Trident Fish Gang has emerged. Recently, they have been attacking members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, causing the deaths of dozens of people in the Qi Refining Period and Building Foundation Period.""After all these years, they can still produce people. The Trident Fish Gang is really something."

    "Who knows? The people from the Trident Fish Gang are currently conducting an intense investigation. They say they will reward anyone with fifty thousand spirit stones for providing information."

    "Fifty thousand, that''s not a small price."

    When ites to prices, some people be interested. The Qi Refining Period is poor, but the Building Foundation Period is also struggling. Generally, the ie of the Building Foundation Period far exceeds that of the Qi Refining Period, but the expenses are also high. Various elixirs, various equipment, easily costing several thousand to tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    Lin Jiang, on the other hand, thought of Liu Dong, Liu Jie''s son. In the past, he had extreme hatred for the Giant Wave Fish Gang. His whole family died at the hands of the Giant Wave Fish Gang. Before Lin Jiang left, he gave him the Overlord Scroll technique.

    It''s been about thirty years since then. In normal circumstances, Liu Dong would definitely not have aplished much in thirty years. But considering the effectiveness of the Overlord Scroll, maybe he has already reached the Golden Core Period.

    "Dear Taoist friends, it is important to be cautious in our words and actions. The matter with the fishing gang is quiteplicated and dangerous, beyond the reach of us independent cultivators. Let''s talk about something else instead."

    Sun Man quickly said, he actually didn''t want these people to take any risks. They were valuable and hard-earned customers. If something happened to them, where would he find new customers?

    "I have some fresh news, but it''s a bit far from Yunzhong City."

    "Oh, please go ahead, Taoist friend. We''re just chatting, after all."

    "Ie from the southwest of Yun State, which borders the Wilderness. Although my cultivation power is weak, in recent years a new force has emerged. I''ve heard from a friend that this force is about to take control of Anhua City in the southwest."

    "Taoist friend, please be more forting with your words. No need to hide anything. If it''s a significant force, we should keep our distance in the future too."

    "Exactly! We independent cultivators have to be more sensible to live a long life."

    This person''s way of speaking, leaving things half unsaid, is annoying. Independent cultivators have to be extremely cautious in their lives, just like them. They never offend disciples from the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, even if they are in the Qi Refining Period. Who knows if provoking the smaller ones will attract the older ones?

    "The force doesn''t really qualify as a significant one, it''s called the Lin family. The head of the Lin family is Lin Batian, who wields the Overlord Spear with incredible skill. One hundred years ago, he already had golden core cultivation and could defeat two opponents of the same level. Now he has reached Nascent Soul cultivation. Meanwhile, the Nascent Soul cultivators in Anhua City are about to pass away, and many say that the Lin family will take over the city."

    "I know Anhua City, although it''s not as good as Yunzhong City, but it''s not bad in Yun State. However, I''ve never heard of this Lin family."

    "I haven''t heard of them either. They must be a small family from the Wilderness."

    "If they have someone at the Golden Core Period guarding them, they can''t be considered a small family. They would be quite good even in Yunzhong City. Even if they are outside the city, they could still control a vige or town."

    The crowd was discussing excitedly, and Lin Jiang''s mind waspletely captivated. He had been away from home for seventy to eighty years, and this was the first time he had heard news about the Lin family. He never expected that his cheap old dad would actually advance to the Nascent Soul stage.

    "Dear friend, could you please exin in more detail?"

    "Taoist Friend Lin, why? Are you thinking of joining the Lin family?"

    "I have the surname Lin too. Maybe five hundred years ago, we were still one family. We''re all rtives, so if I really wanted to join, it wouldn''t be impossible."

    "Haha, Taoist Friend Lin is right. You share the surname Lin, so there might be a good fortune waiting for you."

    "Oh, what kind of fortune?"

    "This Lin Batian has many wives and many children. He has two daughters, known as the Lin family''s twin beauties. Not only are they beautiful, but they also have high cultivation. They are already at the level of golden core. I heard that Lin Batian intends to find a son-inw. You are also surnamed Lin, so if you be a son-inw, your children will also have the surname Lin."

    "Haha, Taoist Friend Lin, this is an interesting matter. I think you should give it a try."

    "Exactly, if you can marry into the Nascent Soul family, you won''t have to worry about cultivation resources anymore. Just think about Wen Xing, he used to be nothing, but after marrying Pill King Li Ruoxu, he became a talented young man."

    "That''s right, Taoist Friend Lin, you are young and have a promising future. We''re already old and no one wants us."

    A few people in the Building Foundation Period then shifted the topic to Lin Jiang. Among them, Lin Jiang is the youngest. He is currently fifty-three years old and settled in the Yunzhong Mountain Range three years after sessfully building his foundation.

    "I have a good appetite. I like to eat solid food and can''t eat soft food. Such a pity."

    Lin Jiang said lightly, he is now very happy. Finding out that Lin Batian has broken through to Nascent Soul, Lin Die and Lin Ying have reached golden core. This is the best news for him this year. It means they can still live for a long time and there may be a chance to meet in the future.

    However, Lin Jiang dare not go home now. His secret is too special. Longevity is something all cultivators strive for, but it''s easily attainable in his hands. No one can guarantee that Lin Batian won''t take action against him. Father and son fighting each other is not a rare thing in the mortal world, and it happens even more in the cultivation world. It''s verymon for such conflicts to ur over resources.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    After chatting for a while, they entered the trading environment. Sun Man took out pills, and others also took out things they didn''t need to exchange for what they needed.

    Lin Jiang took out a second-level spiritual talisman. After more than two years of hard work, Lin Jiang sessfully drew a second-level low-grade spiritual talisman. However, the sess rate is still not high and needs further improvement.

    What he needs now are more second-level spiritual talisman runes. Lin Jiang inherited her mother Zhuang Rong''s symbol arts, which was inherited from her grandfather. Although her grandfather''s symbol arts were good, they were not top-level. Lin Jiang has already learned all the symbols he had, so he needs more symbols to enrich her symbol-drawing skills.

    However, Lin Jiang didn''t have much gain this time. The symbols on the hands of these people were long traded by him. None of them were specialized Talisman Makers, and they didn''t specifically collect symbols.

    Lin Jiang didn''t mind. He is currently focused on improving his symbol arts and not expanding the variety of symbols. This is preparation for the future, so he will take it slowly.

    After the exchange event, Sun Man and the others had many activities. Usually, they would eat and drink together, and asionally they would go to the Spring Coming Tower in Yunzhong City to exchange martial arts skills. However, Lin Jiang didn''t have this hobby, so he went home early.

    As the outer array opened, the eyes were greeted by hundreds of acres of spiritual medicine, with strange and beautiful flowers and nts blooming. Further ahead, there were several acres of vegetables and fruits, with over twenty different varieties. The spiritual medicine and vegetables were separated by different arrays.

    On the hillside, there were several acres of spiritual peaches, which were currently blossoming and looked very beautiful. Next to the cave, there were some spiritual bamboo, but they were still sparse and weak. They were just nted by Lin Jiang this year.

    In the distance, there were more wastnds with overgrown weeds. Lin Jiang bought some spiritual grass seeds, which can be used to make talisman paper. However, Lin Jiang didn''t n to use them for making talisman paper, as he doesn''t know how to do it. These are fodder for poultry. Lin Jiang purchased more than ten spiritual deer, as well as some transformed rabbits, chickens, and ducks, all of which were allowed to roam freely.

    In the cave, only a dozenrge trees were left, and the rest were all cut down. At this moment, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were standing on one of therge trees, staring at the leisurely spiritual deer, almost drooling.

    "Big Naughty and Small Naughty, if you dare to steal the magical deer again, I will dare to roast you and eat you tonight."

    Every time Lin Jiang came back, he would warn them once, because when the magical deer was first bought, they stole half of it. As punishment, Lin Jiang treated them as sheepdogs and let them herd.

    "Chirp chirp..."

    Big Naughty and Small Naughty retorted one after another, coldly looking at Lin Jiang. They had already been beaten before, so they didn''t dare to steal anymore. Of course, it''s also possible that they think the current magical deer is too small, so they''ll fatten it up before eating it.

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75

    Yuntuo River, Lin Jiang sat by the river fishing.

    Most of the people who fish along the Yuntuo River are at the Qi Refining Period. People at the Building Foundation Period don''t really do this anymore because the rewards are too low. It''s more cost-effective to use a fishing boat to catch fish.

    However, fishing with a boat requires the approval of the fishing gang, and offerings need to be given to them. Lin Jiang is not interested in that. He fishes for leisure and to provide food for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    After reaching thete stage of the second rank, the appetite of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao increased again. These first-rank demon fish need to eat one or two hundred pounds every day. However, this kind of eating hardly helps with their cultivation.

    In order to continue their advancement, they must be fed with higher-level spirit meat or Demon Cores. But the expenses for that are even more terrifying. Demon Cores require at least a third-rank demonic beast, and one core costs at least tens of thousands. Lin Jiang can''t afford it, so he can only fish to earn food for them.

    As for the advancement of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, Lin Jiang leaves it to time. Take it slowly. After all, the lifespan of demonic beasts is longer than cultivators. There''s no rush. Maintaining the current situation is good enough.

    "The fish in the Yuntuo River have be clever, even the stupid fish have all been caught by people."

    Lin Jiang''s harvest today is not good. He hasn''t caught any fish for over two hours, making him miss the feeling of catching many fish before. It was truly satisfying.

    The demon fish in the Yuntuo River are much smarter than ordinary fish. They have more than a seven-second memory. If they agree with a certain bait, they will remember it after eating it multiple times. That''s why fishermen often change their baits, or else they can just wait for an empty fishing line."The fisherman neveres back empty-handed. If he can''t catch any fish, he will dive in and catch them."

    Lin Jiang put away the fishing rod and took out a harpoon from the storage bag. With a smirk, he jumped into the Yuntuo River.

    The Yuntuo River is very deep. It is said to be several kilometers deep at its deepest point, like an ocean. However, the average depth of the river is only a few tens of meters. Lin Jiang used his spiritual power to enhance his vision, and he could see everything at the bottom of the river clearly.

    "Ssh!"

    Lin Jiang saw a huge monster fish and immediately stabbed it, blood gushing out from the fish''s body. But instead of dying, the fish fiercely charged towards Lin Jiang.

    The battle at the bottom of the river began. Lin Jiang held a spear and fought against the monster fish, which mainly used ramming and biting as its tactics. Lin Jiang''s movements were also restricted, but they were still more than the fish could handle. He used a flying sword to poke it a few times and the fish started to flee.

    Lin Jiang stabbed the fish with the spear, which was tied to a rope. He let the fish drag him along. Today, he was determined to deal with this fish.

    The fish continued to flee until it couldn''t go any further after an hour. It was severely weakened from losing so much blood and on the brink of death. Lin Jiang, showing mercy, put an end to its suffering by giving it a physical release, then dragged it ashore.

    "Uhh..."

    Just as Lin Jiang was dragging the monster fish weighing thousands of pounds to the shore, he witnessed a scene that revealed too much. There was a figure in a ck robe searching through the corpses. There were over ten bodies lying next to him, dressed as members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang.

    The figure in the ck robe turned around. He waspletely covered in the robe, with only his eyes visible, staring at Lin Jiang.

    "I didn''t see anything."

    Lin Jiang turned around to leave, but as he did, the figure in the ck robe appeared in front of him, blocking his way. His powerful consciousness immediately locked onto Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang eximed in frustration. This person turned out to be at the Golden Core Period, and there aren''t many people at the Golden Core Period in Yunzhong City, maybe just a few dozen. He rarely encounters them, but today he collided with one head-on.

    "Who are you?"

    "I am Lin Wu, an independent cultivator from Yunzhong City."

    "Still fishing at the Building Foundation Period?"

    "Not fishing, it''s spearing fish. The fish in Yuntuo River are too clever, can''t catch them with a fishing rod."

    "Is there any difference?"

    "It seems not."

    "Why are you fishing?"

    "To eat, I like eating fish."

    "Does buying fish cost a lot of money?"

    "The store-bought fish doesn''t smell as good as the ones you catch yourself."

    Lin Jiang honestly said that he really liked eating fish, but ever since the Trident Fish Gang and Giant Wave Fish Gang broke into a big war and threw all the bodies into the Yuntuo River, he stopped eating fish from the Yuntuo River. He only started eating a little bit of fish after he moved to the Yunzhong Mountain Range and caught some fish in the mountain stream.

    "You can leave now."

    "Ah, you''re letting me go just like that?"

    "Hmm, your words just reminded me of an old friend. I''ll let you go this time, but you should know what to do, right?"

    "Understood, I''ve never been here and I haven''t seen anything."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he knew the rules, he was a rule-abiding person.

    The person in the ck robe ignored him and continued to search the bodies. Then, they cast a spell and threw all the bodies into the Yuntuo River. The river water surged and within a few seconds, everything disappeared.

    "Walking really fast"

    Lin Jiang saw the ck-robed figure quickly disappear, sighed, chopped the demon fish in his hand into pieces, and then stuffed them into a storage bag.

    "I will never eat fish from the Yuntuo River again."

    Lin Jiang secretly vowed that the Yuntuo River was too terrifying. He didn''t know how many bodies were thrown in there every day. This reminded Lin Jiang of his older brother. He was really powerful, even more so than Lin Jiang the cultivator.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Let''s honestly dig a fish pond."

    Back at his home in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, Lin Jiang looked at a piece of low-lyingnd and decided to dig a fish pond.

    Every day for four hours, Lin Jiang spent a month digging a fish pond that was over ten acres in size. Then he filled it with stream water and bought fish fry from outside, cing them in the fish pond.

    "Big Shadiao, Small Shadiao, these fish in the fish pond are mine. No stealing or snatching!"

    Lin Jiang held onto Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, teaching them that the fish in this pond don''t grow big, at most three to five catties. The fish in the whole pond are not enough for them to have a meal. Lin Jiang prepared for himself, and they can only eat from the Yuntuo River.

    "Chirp chirp..."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao saw the big fish that Lin Jiang took out and instantly became excited. They don''t care if it''s the Ganges River or not, as long as it''s fish.

    "There are fish, chickens, ducks, and even deer. This life is so enjoyable."

    Lin Jiang looked at the home he built with his own hands and was very satisfied. Compared to the hustle and bustle of the big city, he prefers this picturesque countryside.

    Previously living in Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang rarely went out for entertainment. There is more to Yunzhong City than just Spring Coming Tower, and only those who love to y know how fun it is. But Lin Jiang never went. Now it''s nice to have some flowers and grass.

    Lin Jiang has always been cultivating, but he never rushes. Not to mention the whole cultivation world, even in Yunzhong City, he is just an insignificant shrimp. As long as you don''t cause trouble, how unlucky would you have to be to go out and be killed, especially when he rarely goes out? He''s definitely a homebody.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    After another month, Lin Jiang received Sun Man''s Sound Passing Talisman, and the exchange meeting began again. He went to Sun Man''s cave, which is about fifty miles away from his ce, not far at all. With the flight speed of the Building Foundation Period, he can get there in a moment.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you''re the first one toe."

    "Isn''t it close to where we live, Taoist friend Sun? What kind of activities will there be in this exchange meeting?"

    "It''s the same as before, but recently I made a batch of elixirs called the Sanhua Pill. Taoist Friend Lin, are you interested in trying it?"

    "I''m fine, I still have over a hundred years of life left. No rush, let''s leave it for other Taoist friends. I think Taoist Friend Zhang needed it more."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. The Sanhua Pill is also a treasure that extends life, but it only adds five years to it. Plus, the Sanhua Pill cannot be used more than once. After taking the second one, it bes useless. Lin Jiang thought it wasn''t worth it.

    "Taoist Friend Zhang has left, he doesn''t need it anymore."

    "He left, um..."

    "No, no. He said he wanted to go out and explore something that appeared in the northern part of Yunzhong Mountain Range, like a hidden ce or something. I advised against it, but I couldn''t persuade him."

    Sun Man quickly exined that "he left" means he physically went away, not that he died. Please don''t misunderstand.

    "Isn''t the northern part Wilderness? How is there still a hidden ce?"

    Lin Jiang asked. The Yunzhong Mountain Range is veryrge, with its main range spanning thousands of miles from east to west. The Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect mainly operate in the southern part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, while the northern part is upied by several powerful monster kings. The strength of the monsters is stronger than that of cultivators, and it is a wilderness environment.

    "Some cultivators like the life in the wilderness and settle deep within it. They may also guard certain genius treasures and set up powerful formations. These formations, when left behind, create independent environments. These are called secret realms, which are different from the secret realms of the major sects."

    "I see, I''ve learned something new."

    "However, Taoist Friend Lin is very skilled. It would be beneficial for him to go out and explore the wilderness. There are treasures everywhere in the wilderness. If he can find a high-level spirit medicine, he won''t have to worry about resources for dozens of years."

    "Yes, Sun the Taoist friend spoke wisely."

    "If Taoist Friend Lin has this intention, I can introduce some friends to Taoist Friend Lin. They are talented people with a good reputation in Yunzhong City. If Taoist Friend Lin agrees, they will prioritize selling the elixirs to me at the same price as outside. Taoist Friend Lin won''t be at a disadvantage."

    "Let''s talk about it when I be stronger."

    Lin Jiang replied. You''re right, but I''m sorry, I won''t go on the adventure.

    The greatest benefit of an adventure is the chance to be rich. It''s the fastest way for an ordinary cultivator to move up in society. But he doesn''t want that. With infinite lifespan, he can slowly umte wealth. If one year doesn''t work, there''s always ten years, or even a hundred or a thousand years.

    He saves a few hundred spirit stones a year, and in a hundred years, it would be tens of thousands of spirit stones, quite a lot.

    Soon, the people invited by Sun Man arrived one after another. Some would leave this small group, but Sun Man would always bring in new people, maintaining a group of about ten people.

    Lin Jiang didn''t have anything to trade with them, but he quite enjoyed the discussions. Lin Jiang practiced alone without any mentor, so discussing cultivation matters was helpful to him. Therefore, in most cases, Lin Jiang wouldn''t be absent.

    "Oh my gosh, what''s going on?"

    "Such strong spiritual energy fluctuations, there must be people battling with magic."

    "I can''t detect it with my divine sense. Is it a golden core cultivator?"

    Towards the end of today''s exchange meeting, everyone suddenly felt a strong wave of spiritual energy. Their faces changed and their divine senses couldn''t detect it. It must be at least several hundred meters away, definitely not something a Building Foundation Period cultivator could create.

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76

    The intense fluctuations of spiritual energy made everyone uneasy. The middle area of Yunzhong Mountain Range is mainly upied by Qi Refining and Building Foundation independent cultivators. There might be golden core cultivators, but they are not included in everyone''s circle, and no one knows about them.

    "Should we go out and take a look?"

    "Um..."

    "I think so too. We should go out and see for ourselves, rather than just waiting here."

    "No, no. If there''s a fight between golden cores, what will we do if we get caught in the crossfire?"

    "I also think it''s safer to stay at Sun Taoist Friend''s house."

    The ten or so people had different thoughts. Some wanted to go and see, maybe it was an opportunity. Even if there was a fight between golden cores, it''s possible that both sides would be injured. But more people were thinking of not causing any trouble and just staying quiet.

    "Sun Taoist Friend, how is the defense formation at your house?"

    "It''s okay. The outeryer is a second-grade lower-tier Three Elements Fish Scale Formation. The core is a third-grade Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation, with an additionalyer of a third-grade Five Elements Shock Killing Formation. But the spiritual energy here is spread too thin, so I need spirit stones to activate the third-grade formation."Sun Man said, his formation was very advanced, but the spiritual energy was not enough because he had nted arge number of high-level spiritual herbs around the cave, and more than half of the spiritual energy flowed into the Spiritual Herb Garden.

    "Sun''s Taoist friend is wealthy, I admire him."

    Lin Jiang didn''t say these words, but he meant the same thing. He is an alchemist and very rich. He is truly the leader of the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals.

    The Three-tier Formation requires tens of thousands of spirit stones to start. It depends on specific needs. Sun Man''s core area is also five or six hundred acres in size. ording to Lin Jiang''s knowledge of the Formation market, this set of Three-tier Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation costs no less than 80,000 spirit stones. Plus other Formations, just for safety, Sun Man has invested more than 130,000 spirit stones.

    This amount of wealth is enough to make Lin Jiang and others envious. Lin Jiang''s family doesn''t even have a Three-tier Formation. Of course, the main reason is that the spiritual veins there are low, so even if they had a Three-tier Formation, it wouldn''t be useful at all.

    "Fellow Taoist friends, please don''t mock us. Everyone knows that in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, there are always several Building Foundation cultivators dying every year. They know that alchemists like us are wealthy and always have their eyes on us. We can''t bear to invest too much, but in the end, we might end up helping someone else."

    Sun Manughed bitterly and shook his head. He felt heartbroken because he had invested so much money. But there was no other choice. Among independent cultivators, alchemists are the richest. Everyone knows that they are like fat sheep, attracting countless thieves. If they don''t enhance their security measures, they will be prey to others.

    "While others hoard food, I hoard spears. Others are my granary. It seems that I also need to be more cautious from now on. In the eyes of others, Talisman Makers are also wealthy people."

    Lin Jiang nodded silently. There are many impoverished and ruthless individuals in the cultivation world. They don''t have any means to make a living, but they are always ready to kill and seize treasures. In their eyes, even Talisman Makers are considered wealthy.

    "Sun''s Taoist friend, since your family has a Three-tier Formation, why don''t we activate it and take to the sky to see what''s going on? If there is any danger, we should prepare in advance."

    "This, activating the third-level formation requires a lot of spirit stones. We might need the support of our Taoist friends."

    Sun Man looked troubled. The third-level formation was not something to be taken lightly. In theory, it could withstand attacks from the Golden Core Period, but it consumed a lot of energy. He didn''t want to be the one to bear this burden alone. After all, they were all seeking refuge together. How could he be the only one to provide the spirit stones?

    Lin Jiang and the others immediately had dark expressions. Sun Man was being a real jerk. They invited him to their house for a gathering, and he couldn''t even contribute a little money.

    But now was not the time to argue. After some discussion, everyone agreed to contribute five hundred spirit stones each, totaling seven thousand, to give to Sun Man. Once he received the spirit stones, he immediately activated the third-level formation.

    With the protection of the third-level formation, everyone felt more at ease. Even if they faced a direct attack from someone in the Golden Core Period, they could withstand it for a while. So they ascended with peace of mind.

    As they reached an altitude of a hundred meters, everyone cast their spells and looked around. Some had practiced eye techniques and could easily see tens of kilometers ahead. Lin Jiang hadn''t practiced eye techniques, but with the enhancement of spiritual energy, he could still see three or four kilometers without any problem.

    "There, do you see it?"

    "It''s the people from the Giant Wave Fish Gang."

    "Do you know them, Taoist friend?"

    "We''ve seen him several times, he is definitely the leader of the Giant Wave Fish Gang."

    "It''s definitely fuliu-jian, I''ve seen him a few times. Fighting alongside him is the Grand Elder Shen Bo of the Giant Wave Fish Gang. I just don''t know who the person in the ck robe is."

    The people immediately started discussing. Sun Man and the others were experienced members of the Building foundation, over a hundred years old. They were familiar faces around Yunzhong City and recognized two of them as fuliu-jian, the leader of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, and Grand Elder Shen Bo.

    And Lin Jiang recognized the person in the ck robe. Isn''t that the same person who massacred the members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang at Yuntuo River?

    "Friend Sun, don''t you think that person in the ck robe''s abilities are familiar?"

    "Indeed, he practices the Overlord Scroll, a forbidden cultivation technique. I didn''t expect someone would actually practice such a dark art."

    "I heard that the descendants of the Trident Fish Gang have been attacking members of the Giant Wave Fish Gang everywhere. It must be this person. The Trident Fish Gang and the Giant Wave Fish Gang have a long-standing vendetta. Their descendants would stop at nothing for revenge."

    "That makes sense. It must be him."

    The people discussed again, and Lin Jiang remained calm. He was certain that the person in the ck robe was undoubtedly Liu Dong. Otherwise, Lin Jiang couldn''t imagine anyone else doing such a thing.

    "Oh, this Evil Scroll, it should have been banned a long time ago."

    "Why hasn''t it been banned? The Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect have been destroying this technique, but it''s always been popr in the cultivation world. Many people have secretly kept this technique."

    "I know that too. Many independent cultivators hide this technique as a powerful weapon. They hope that if they are ever bullied, they can use it for revenge."

    "It''s not that simple. I also read about this technique in the past. It doesn''t require the cultivator to have special spiritual abilities, but not everyone can seed in practicing it. It requires great determination, and the cost is terrifying. Even though that person in the ck robe currently has a golden core cultivation, there''s no guarantee they''ll live past a hundred years."

    Sun Man said. Techniques are not magical cures. Just having this technique doesn''t guarantee sess in cultivation. Countless people have died halfway due to the side effects of techniques.

    As Lin Jiang listened to the people discussing, he also watched the battle several miles away. The ck-robed person, Liu Dong, fought against two opponents and was not at a disadvantage. In fact, he was even overpowering them. fuliu-jian and the other person were in a very difficult position.

    "Kid from the Liu family, don''t push us to the limit. The downfall of the Trident Fish Gang wasn''t our intention. You should know that if we don''t intervene, other fishing gangs will."

    Fuliu-jian, feeling desperate, shouted at the ck-robed person. The Overlord Scroll is a heavenly level cultivation method, far surpassing the techniques we practice. Both in terms of quantity and quality of spiritual energy, it''s on apletely different level. They simply can''tpete.

    "So what? You killed our people. If we don''t kill you, how can we justify it to the more than thirty members of the Liu family?"

    Liu Dong coldly said, the conflict among the fishing gangs was rooted in the power struggle among the upper echelons. Trident Fish Gang lost their support, either being absorbed by Giant Wave Fish Gang or other fishing gangs.

    The fact was true, but he didn''t care. He only knew that more than thirty members of the Liu family had perished at the hands of Giant Wave Fish Gang. This was enough. He sought revenge and he didn''t get the wrong person.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Shen Bo, when will the reinforcements arrive?"

    "I have already sent eighteen pleas for help using Sound Passing Talisman."

    "Don''t wait, your supporter is no longer in Yunzhong City. Prepare for death."

    Liu Dongughed. He had been discovered by fuliu-jian and chased to this point. But this was the result of his careful calction. The supporter of Giant Wave Fish Gang was currently on a breakthrough retreat, unable to receive the Sound Passing Talisman messages.

    "Join forces, devouring all the fish."

    Fuliu-jian''s face turned pale when he heard this, exchanging a nce with Shen Bo. They prepared to join forces and cast a spell.

    "Haha, without water, what can the fish do?"

    Liu Dong was not afraid at all. The secret technique of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, Fish Swallowing the World, was indeed very powerful, but it required water. In Yuntuo River, they were naturally advantaged. But what water was there here?

    As expected, after the two of them used their secret technique, the surrounding streams were quickly drained by them. These waters turned into a water dragon and swept towards Liu Dong.

    However, the nearby streams were not big enough to sustain the consumption of the water dragon. After a few rounds of confrontation with Liu Dong, the water dragon copsed.

    "If someone from the Giant Wave Fish Gang could use water magic at this time, maybe they could win."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, instead of using other spells, just a Rain Decision would be enough. But the condition was that they needed more people. A little bit wasn''t enough.

    Unfortunately, no one from the Giant Wave Fish Gang appeared. It was unknown whether they were too scared toe or if they were held up by other things.

    "Break!"

    When Liu Dong saw the water dragon copse, he immediately increased his attack. He hadn''t studied many secret techniques, but with a big sword, he was able to unleash waves of sword energy. The sword energy tore apart Shen Bo''s magic shield in an instant. One strikended on Shen Bo, who let out a cry of pain and flew away.

    Upon seeing this, fuliu-jian quickly turned around and fled. The two of them were not even evenly matched, let alone just him alone. Liu Dong wouldn''t let him get away and pursued him once again.

    "Shen Bo seems to be in trouble."

    "What should we do?"

    "Save him or..."

    Unable to continue this conversation, there are people in Sun Man''s cave who are restless, their intentions unknown.

    "I don''t know anything, don''t mind me."

    Lin Jiang is the first tond, whether it''s to save someone or to take advantage of the situation, he doesn''t take action right away. Safetyes first, he''ll think about itter.

    "I don''t know either."

    "Same here."

    Several more people, like Lin Jiang, quickly descend. It''s out of our control. But still, more than half of the people, including Sun Man, haven''te down yet. They all know that the Golden Core Elder is wealthy, not to mention being the Grand Elder of the Fishing Gang. That''s definitely a super fatmb. Saving someone can result in a generous reward, as for killing... hehe.

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77

    Sun Man''s home had fourteen independent cultivators in the Building Foundation Period, plus himself making fifteen people. At this moment, five people descended while ten others remained suspended in midair.

    "Be cautious, my Taoist friends, they might silence us."

    As soon as Lin Jiang came down, he sensed that Sun Man and the others weremunicating with each other. Immediately, he alsomunicated with the other four. If they decided to take action and kill someone, then Lin Jiang and the others could be eliminated by their joint efforts because they didn''t dare let the Giant Wave Fish Gang know that they were the ones responsible.

    The faces of the other four people changed, and they quickly stood together, back to back, staring up at the sky. Sun Man and the others also seemed to havee to a decision, as they all looked towards Lin Jiang and the others.

    "Sun, my Taoist friend, today''s exchange hase to an end. How about opening the formation and letting us go home?"

    "We don''t mean to neglect you, my Taoist friends. How about taking a temporary break?"

    "No, Sun, my Taoist friend. I want to go home. Please release the formation."

    "The outside is filled with danger. It would be better to take a temporary break."

    "Dear Taoist friend Sun, please think carefully. I am a second-level Formation Master. Your family''s formation is difficult to break from the outside, but not so great on the inside. The Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation and the Five Elements Shock Killing Formation must be activated simultaneously, requiring aplete third-level spiritual vein. Spirit stones won''t do."A person stepped forward and said coldly. Sun Man''s formation has threeyers: two for external defense and one for internal confinement. It is incredibly powerful. However, on Lin Jiang''s side, there is a Formation Master, which changes things. They can see the strengths and weaknesses of the formation. Breaking it won''t be difficult.

    "Dear Taoist friend Sun, we understand the rules of the Taoist path. Today, we will leave first. We know nothing about what will happen afterwards."

    "Dear Taoist friend Sun, think it through. Hesitation will only lead to chaos. There are many independent cultivators in this area. Do you really think you can eliminate them all? If you truly want to do it, do it and then run away. The Yun State is vast. There are plenty of ces to cultivate."

    Someone else said. A battle among golden cores will cause a great disturbance. It won''t just be Shen Bo they are after. It''s impossible to keep it a secret. If we truly want to take action, it''s better to escape immediately after seeding.

    "Taoist Friend Chen speaks wisely. Dear Taoist friend Sun, I shall also take my leave."

    As soon as these words were spoken, three more people stood by Sun Man''s side, facing Lin Jiang and his group. Lin Jiang recognized them as settled residents of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, with families and homes. They had already established themselves and saw no need to flee for this one asion.

    "Since you Taoist friends are determined to leave, I dare not keep you any longer. Please go."

    Sun Man saw that Lin Jiang''s side had more people and immediately made the difficult choice to allow everyone to leave.

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend Chen."

    "Thanks, Brother Chen."

    After leaving Sun Man''s cave, everyone thanked Taoist Friend Chen, who is an expert in formations. He had just exerted great pressure on Sun Man, and if it wasn''t for him, Sun Man might have taken action.

    Lin Jiang quickly flew back home and immediately activated the protective formation, cing Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao into the Spirit Beast Bag. He also added spirit stones to various formations as a precaution.

    Lin Jiang had no intention of practicing cultivation. He sat and waited for the situation to unfold, feeling that things were not as simple as they seemed.

    Sure enough, two hourster, a powerful divine sense swept through Lin Jiang''s residence. Lin Jiang promptly got up and flew high up into the sky, where he saw Liu Dong, the person in the ck robe.

    "You truly are a clever person."

    Liu Dong saw Lin Jiang and recognized him as the person he had previously met by Yuntuo River.

    "I can still pretend not to know anything."

    "That''s what they said too."

    Liu Dong casually swung his hand and seven heads fell down, exactly belonging to Sun Man and his six friends.

    "Do we have to fight to the death?"

    "Haha, what can you do to challenge me?"

    "Killing fuliu-jian and Shen Bo wasn''t without consequences, right? The support behind the Giant Wave Fish Gang will soon appear."

    With a thought, Lin Jiang summoned Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, who flew up into the sky and let out a piercing cry, filled with a warning.

    "You''re lucky to encounter ate-stage second-tier Aurora falcon."

    Liu Dong''s eyes lit up, but he wasn''t intimidated by Lin Jiang at all. He summoned a powerful magical sword and struck down towards Lin Jiang.

    "*Boom*"

    The spell protecting Lin Jiang''s cave broke instantly. Lin Jiang became anxious and shouted, "Liu Dong, do you want to repay kindness with enmity?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "Take a look at who I am."

    Lin Jiang immediately changed his appearance, transforming back into Lin Yu''s original look.

    "You, you..."

    "It''s me. I saved both you and Liu Siyu back then, and I also gave you the Overlord Scroll."

    "It''s really you, Uncle Lin."

    Liu Dong looked at Lin Jiang in absolute shock, memories of their past together shing through his mind.

    Liu Dong first met Lin Jiang at his home. His father, Liu Jie, asked Lin Jiang to teach him script magic. However, the greatest favor came after the Trident Fish Gang was destroyed. Lin Jiang risked his life to shelter Liu Dong and Liu Siyuan, providing them with the Overlord Scroll and paying their rent for three years. This allowed them to evade the relentless pursuit of the Giant Wave Fish Gang.

    "It''s me."

    "Why did you leave without saying goodbye back then?"

    "Back then, I was only in the Qi Refining Period. How could I have offended the Giant Wave Fish Gang? Your father Liu Jie and your uncle Liu Hui helped me. All I could do was that."

    "That''s alright, let mee in and rest for a bit."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang opened the inner formation. He couldn''t beat them in a fight. fuliu-jian and Shen Bo, both at the golden core stage, died. Sun Man and the other seven at the Building Foundation Period were easily defeated. He had no chance of winning, and it seemed impossible for him to escape. That''s why Lin Jiang decided to reveal his identity.

    "Uncle Lin, how have you been all these years?"

    "It''s been tough. Independent cultivators struggle, as you know. It took me a lot of effort to barely reach the Building Foundation stage."

    "You seem younger than when Ist saw you."

    "Just took the Appearance Fixing Pill."

    "Very good."

    Liu Dong nodded, knowing that Lin Jiang was lying, but he didn''t expose it. After all, who doesn''t have secrets as a cultivator?

    "What happened to Liu Siyu?"

    "She got married, married an independent cultivator in Yunzhong City. Just like you, he''s also a Talisman Maker. They settled in the northern part of Yunzhong Mountain Range, living in seclusion. They might even have a grandchild by now."

    "That''s great, it wasn''t in vain for me to save you back then."

    "Indeed, it''s good. So, Uncle Lin, can you help me out?"

    "What do you want?"

    "I''m a dying person now. Here are nine storage bags, all of them are yours. Inside, there are at least a hundred thousand spirit stones. You can give Liu Siyu''s family five thousand spirit stones every ten years, totaling fifty thousand. Additionally, there are some cultivation techniques and secrets. Make sure to give them a copy. The rest is all for you."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Aren''t you afraid that I will keep everything for myself?"

    "It doesn''t matter if you keep everything for yourself, I owe you from the past."

    Liu Dong said that Lin Jiang, who was in the Qi Refining Period back then, risked his life to save him and even paid three years'' rent in Yunzhong City. This favor was not small.

    "Alright, I promise."

    "Thank you so much, Uncle Lin."

    "Could you let me see what I look like after practicing the Overlord Scroll? I almost couldn''t resist practicing it back then."

    "Should we still not do it?"

    Liu Dong shook his head. He no longer wanted to show his true face. The Overlord Scroll was too terrifying.

    Lin Jiang didn''t say anything else, but he noticed Liu Dong''s hands. They were very thin and old, like the hands of an elderly person near the end of their life. However, Liu Dong was not even a hundred years old, so he should have had a lifespan of five hundred years.

    "Never mind, I''m leaving. I won''t kill the other independent cultivators in the Building Foundation. Uncle Lin, be careful."

    Liu Dong wanted to say something else, but in the end, he didn''t speak. He left behind the bag and quickly disappeared, taking the heads with him.

    Lin Jiang looked at where Liu Dong had just stood, a puddle of blood, and realized that he had been seriously injured.

    "Forget it, forget it."

    Lin Jiang sighed and once againmented the difficult life of independent cultivators. Seven Building Foundation Period cultivators, all gone, and it had only been a few hours.

    Lin Jiang quickly found fuliu-jian and Shen Bo''s bag, used his spiritual sense to erase the markings inside, opened it, took out ordinary items like spirit stones, and immediately put back anything that could expose his identity. Then he had Big Shadiao carry it away and throw it out, preferably flying hundreds of miles away as quickly as possible.

    After cleaning up the traces, Lin Jiang waited for Big Shadiao to return and immediately left Yunzhong Mountain Range, entering Yunzhong City and finding an inn to stay in. He opened each storage bag, one by one.

    Half a dayter, a terrifying fortune wasid out in front of Lin Jiang. The spirit stones alone exceeded four hundred thousand, with fuliu-jian and Shen Bo being the richest, their spirit stones totaling over three hundred thousand. There were also some pills, martial arts techniques, and the rest of the items were all discarded, as they were even more valuable.

    Sun Man and the others also had substantial wealth, after all, they were all experienced Building Foundation Period cultivators. Sun Man, in particr, was a second-tier alchemist. However, Sun Man''s most valuable possession was still in his house. Lin Jiang now had Sun Man''s formation control token.

    "Thebined value of all the various treasures amounted to over five or six hundred thousand spirit stones."

    "Seeking wealth and fortune amidst danger, the ancient people were truly not deceiving me."

    Lin Jiang sighed repeatedly, he could understand why Sun Man and the others took the risk. Their wealth during the Golden Core Period was too abundant. Spirit stones were just a small part of their wealth, the valuable equipment and treasures added to the total value, not less than two hundred thousand. If they were divided equally among the seven of them, they would each receive tens of thousands, which would be their ie for one or two years. And if they seeded, it would probably be a matter of solving it within an hour.

    To earn a year or two''s worth of money in just one hour, there would be many people who couldn''t resist the temptation.

    "I''ve lost more than what I''ve kept, I need to find some secret techniques that can remove special marks, or find a reliable and powerful ce to sell stolen goods."

    Thinking about the things that were thrown away afterwards, Lin Jiang felt very regretful. The value inside was even greater than what Lin Jiang had kept. If he had the ability to keep them, it would have been a big profit.

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78

    At the banks of Yuntuo River, in the main hall of the Giant Wave Fish Gang, there were already corpses all over the ce. Liu Dong changed into the attire of the former Trident Fish Gang and was tinkering with offerings.

    In front of him were one tablet after another, somememorating the help of the Trident Fish Gang and some of his own Liu family members, over a hundred in total.

    "Leader, Liu family ancestors, Liu Dong is ashamed. He only remembers so many people. Maybe there''s no chance to make up for it..."

    Liu Dong knelt in front of those tablets, whispering something. He kept murmuring and didn''t know how long had passed. A dark figure fell outside the main hall, walking step by step towards Liu Dong.

    "Even the esteemed elder of Cloud Sword Sect doesn''t dare to show their true face."

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about."

    The person behind him smirked. He was wearing a ck robe, only revealing a pair of eyes, which couldn''t be seen clearly.

    "Forget it, if you don''t want to admit it, then don''t. Everyone knows that the Fishermen Gang are the dogs of the two major sects."

    "You used to be part of the Fishermen Gang too.""Yes, I used to be your dog. But as your dog, I umted countless wealth for you. How did you treat me in return?"

    "When a dog is useless, it gets killed and eaten. Isn''t that what should happen?"

    "It seems like this, but you should know, we''re not real dogs, we''re humans, with flesh and blood, with homes and families."

    "Is there any difference?"

    "You..."

    Upon hearing these words, Liu Dong became extremely angry, blood boiling in his head.

    "Are you very angry? But this is the truth, an unchangeable truth. In the eyes of the upper ss cultivators, the lower-ss cultivators are even lower than dogs."

    "This is the major sect, the ruler of Yun State. I finally understand."

    "And then what? After understanding, what does it aplish? Being angry, very angry, so what?"

    "When an ordinary man gets angry, blood stters five steps."

    "Haha, just based on you?"

    The person in the ck robeughed and said. Is the Overlord Scroll very powerful? It''s just a dark martial art. Compared to the truly top-level martial arts, it''s nothing but garbage. Besides, it is also suppressed by different levels. Can Nascent Soul defeat the golden core?

    "Unfortunately, I didn''t have the chance to learn from Senior Emperor. If I could advance to Soul Changing, I would definitely destroy your Cloud Sword Sect."

    Liu Dong looked at his hands, which were old and thin. His face was no better. A golden core that should have been flourishing before the age of one hundred was now withered and weak.

    The Overlord Scroll has been circting in Yun State for thousands of years. Countless people have practiced this martial art, but no one has reached the height of Senior Emperor. The drawbacks of this martial art are really terrifying.

    "Are you done talking? If you are, I can send you on your way."

    "I''m done talking. Come on, let me experience the Cloud Sword Sect''s superior swordsmanship."

    Liu Dong stood up, took out his big sword treasure. He had known for a long time that he wouldn''t live much longer, even if no one killed him. So, he would rather die and give a final blow to the person behind the fishing gang.

    "Sword Sutra, Skyscraper Sword."

    "Furious Sea Angry de."

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    The man in the ck cloak used a sword technique, while Liu Dong used the Powerful st Technique to burn his remaining life force, then he unleashed his strongest strike.

    A fierce wave of sword energy burst out from his precious sword, forming a phantom that was several tens of meters long. It shed towards the man in the ck cloak, but his flying sword still seemed ordinary.

    "Boom!"

    The wave of sword energy collided with the flying sword. The wave shattered, but the flying sword continued its momentum and cut through Liu Dong''s body. Liu Dong''s body suddenly exploded, blood and flesh sttering towards the man in the ck cloak. However, it was all blocked by the man''s protective barrier, leaving not a single droplet on him.

    "Ants will always be ants, even if they ssh blood five steps away, how ridiculous."

    The man in the ck cloak coldly said, then he retrieved his flying sword and used a spell to take Liu Dong''s storage bag.

    Effortlessly removing the marks on the storage bag, the man in the ck cloak emptied its contents. There were several thousand spirit stones and a pile of misceneous items, but everything else was gone.

    "Does Liu Dong have any survivors?"

    The ck-clothed person immediately became unhappy. If you only cut the grass without getting rid of the roots, it will grow again when the spring wind blows. Although these ants cannot threaten him, they can still cause some trouble, just like annoying flies buzzing around.

    Thinking of this, the ck-clothed person took out a magical tool that looked like apass. After casting a spell, a small insect flew out from the center of thepass and quickly flew away. The ck-clothed person nced around and found no other things to deal with, so he followed the insect along the way.

    Finally, the ck-clothed person arrived in front of a cave in the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range. With his spiritual awareness, he sensed that there were three cultivators inside the cave. They seemed to be three brothers, all of them at the Qi Refining Period cultivation level. There were many items ced in front of them, including even magical flying swords.

    The three brothers were excitedly taking inventory of these items. The sudden fortune had made them so happy that their mouths were crooked, and they were fantasizing about living a good life in the future.

    "Bang!"

    The ck-clothed person reached out and easily shattered the defensive formation of the cave. The three brothers immediately woke up and were about to take out the flying swords from their storage bags to confront the enemy, but they found themselves unable to move at all.

    "Senior, please spare our lives!"

    "I ask, you answer. if you tell the truth, I will spare your lives."

    "Yes, yes, senior. We would never dare to hide anything."

    "Where did these thingse from?"

    "Picked them up."

    "Plop."

    Just as the person answered, the person in a ck robe pped their palm, and the person was shattered into pieces.

    "How did theye?"

    "Senior, we really just picked it up. Today, an Aurora falcon threw a storage bag into the valley ahead, and when we went to look, we found the storage bag."

    "What level is this Aurora falcon?"

    "We don''t know for sure, but it''s definitely a second-order."

    "You''re not lying to me, right?"

    "Really don''t have, senior, we wouldn''t dare to lie to you"

    "Come here"

    "Yes"

    One of them tremblingly walked up to the person in the ck robe. The person in the ck robe stretched out their hand and ced it on his head, then the soul-searching technique started.

    In this person''s memory, the person in the ck robe indeed saw an Aurora falcon flying from the east. The three brothers saw the Aurora falcon carrying a storage bag in its mouth, so they came out to investigate. Afterwards, they saw the Aurora falcon drop the storage bag and leave.

    "It should not be a third rank, it''s at the mid-level of the second rank"

    The person in the ck robe nodded, then released his hand, while the man being soul-searched stared nkly, drooling from the corners of his mouth, bing a fool.

    "Big brother"

    The remaining man let out a mournful roar.

    "Quacking and chirping"

    The person in the ck robe waved their hand, and both people died at the same time, their bodies sliced open.

    The person in the ck robe packed up the things in their storage bag, stood up, and flew away. They flew towards the east, their powerful spiritual sense sweeping through various caves, terrifying cultivators everywhere. Although they were scared, they didn''t dare to speak out against it.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang had been staying at the inn for half a month. Finally, news about the Giant Wave Fish Gang spread throughout the city.

    "The Giant Wave Fish Gang is finished. The gang leader and the elders in the Building Foundation Period have all died."

    "The headquarters of the gang has been destroyed. There''s nothing more to say."

    "Oh, what a pity. Compared to other fishing gangs, the Giant Wave Fish Gang was rtively fair and didn''t exploit people too much. I wonder who will take over now."

    "Who knows? Anyway, we don''t rely on Yuntuo River for our livelihood. It has nothing to do with us."

    "That''s true, but did you hear about a lot of people getting rich in the past few days? Do you know what happened?"

    "It''s all because of the trouble caused by the main branch of the Giant Wave Fish Gang. Liu Dong, who is a descendant of the Trident Fish Gang, killed the leader fuliu-jian and the Grand Elder Shen Bo of the fisherman gang. Then he wiped out hundreds of people from the main branch, but unfortunately, Liu Dong died too. He had the audacity to search his corpse and not only found a lot of storage bags but also looted the Giant Wave Fish Gang''s warehouse."

    "Really? What a loss! Why wasn''t I outside the city?"

    "If you had gone, you might have been the one searching his corpse."

    "Haha, that''s true. But who killed Liu Dong?"

    "Who knows? The main hall of the main branch waspletely destroyed. People say it was likely someone at the advanced stage of golden core who made a move."

    In a inn in Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang listened carefully to the conversations of the people around him. Recently, the matters of the Giant Wave Fish Gang had be the focus of conversation among the lower-level cultivators in Yunzhong City.

    Everything from the grudges between the Giant Wave Fish Gang and the Trident Fish Gang in the past was brought up. Liu Dong''s true identity couldn''t be hidden anymore, but no one really cared. The main concern for everyone was to just watch the drama unfold.

    "Let''s hide for a few more days and then go home to check on things. If everything is fine, I''ll take over Sun Man''s cave. His ce is much better than mine."

    Lin Jiang secretly thought that although he had put in a lot of effort in the cave over the past three years, it was still far inferior to Sun Man''s side. Sun Man alone had valuable formations, not to mention the high-level spiritual medicines Sun Man nted. Lin Jiang saw that some of the medicines had been aged for decades, making them extremely valuable.

    Returning to the inn, Lin Jiang nced at the storage bag, which contained hundreds of thousands of spirit stones. Within the Building Foundation Period, this wealth was definitely an astronomical figure. If it became known, who knows how many heroes and adventurers woulde to snatch it from him.

    "I''ll hide for a few years and then look for Liu Siyu again, but I can''t meet her face to face. I''ll just secretly give it to her."

    Lin Jiang calcted in his heart that he didn''t n to reveal himself to Liu Siyu. Recognizing Liu Dong earlier was unavoidable; if he didn''t exin, Liu Dong would have killed him.

    Lin Jiang didn''t know if the Giant Wave Fish Gang or their backers could find Liu Siyu, so he didn''t dare take the risk. The fact that he agreed to Liu Dong''s request already impressed him. If he had a bit more selfishness, he could have kept the money all to himself.

    After hiding in Yunzhong City for a few days, Lin Jiang was preparing to return to Yunzhong Mountain Range when he saw an independent cultivator roaring at the guards of Yunzhong City. He said, "It''s ancestral, I''ve been saying it all along. My family''s Aurora falcon is ancestral. But you killed it. How will youpensate me?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Upon hearing the words "Aurora falcon," Lin Jiang immediately stopped in his tracks and, like the others, stood still to observe. After a while, Lin Jiang finally understood what was going on.

    The Cloud Sword Sect''s He family suddenly brought up the incident of the young master He Yunwei being killed decades ago and increased the reward for the original perpetrator. The perpetrator was characterized by having a midte stage second-order Aurora falcon. Hence, this cultivator with an inherited Aurora falcon beast pet was mistakenly injured.

    Lin Jiang''s heart suddenly chilled. It was abnormal for an incident from several decades ago to resurface. Even if he just used his toes to think, he would know this was not normal.

    "What happened in the end?"

    Lin Jiang was also very confused. He had been well-behaved these past few years, and it seemed like he hadn''t offended anyone. How did this thing get brought up in the end?

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79

    "Senior Lin, Senior Lin is here!"

    "Shopkeeper,e out quickly, Senior Lin is here!"

    When Lin Jiang appeared once again in the face of Lin Sheng at Star Gathering Tower, he was quickly recognized by the staff. Soon, Lin Jiang entered the VIP room once again, and the shopkeeper of Star Gathering Tower personally came out to greet him.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, it''s been years since youst came."

    "In these past few years, I''ve been traveling around and haven''t been in Yunzhong City."

    "I see. I envy you, Taoist Friend Lin. You have time to travel around, unlike me. I''m caught up in worldly matters and can''t break free."

    "The shopkeeper of Star Gathering Tower doesn''t know how many people envy him."

    "Haha, it seems that we both admire each other. What does Taoist Friend Lin need this time at Star Gathering Tower?"

    "Let''s customize some spiritual tools. The ones I have are not usable anymore.""Looks like a big business ising. I wonder what level of spiritual tools Taoist Friend Lin needs to customize."

    "Aplete set, top quality, and if there''s superb quality, that would be great too."

    Lin Jiang said calmly. This morning, he saw the incident involving He family''s young master being mentioned again by Cloud Sword Sect in Yunzhong City, which made him feel a sense of crisis. Plus, the middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range has always been a world of survival of the fittest. So Lin Jiang gritted his teeth and decided to change his equipment.

    Magical tools and spiritual tools are generally divided into four categories: upper, middle, lower, and top quality. Top quality is the limit of magical tools and spiritual tools. But no one knows which genius came up with the concept of superb quality.

    What is superb quality? It means using a slightly lower grade material while predominantly using higher grade materials, through special means. This surpasses the limit of the next grade material.

    Let''s give an example - using materials used to forge treasures to create spiritual tools. These spiritual tools will surpass the level of regr top quality spiritual tools but will be lower than treasures. That''s why they are called superb quality.

    This kind of excellent quality spiritual weapon is expensive and can only be crafted by a highly skilled cksmith. Its price is not lower than that of a magic treasure, making it the most high-end spiritual weapon that only a few people can afford.

    "Wow, Taoist Friend Lin must have made a fortune with this superb quality item."

    "What fortune? Going out and exploring the cultivation world is dangerous. Without your life, you have nothing. That''s why I prioritize staying alive."

    "Taoist Friend Lin is right. Please wait a moment while I summon a cksmith to discuss this with you."

    The shopkeeper realized he had said too much and quickly changed the subject, calling for a cksmith to join them.

    "I am Master Zheng Daqi, a cksmith at the Star Gathering Tower. I have been informed by the shopkeeper that Taoist Friend Lin wishes to customize a superb quality spiritual weapon. May I know your requirements?"

    "I want to customize two flying swords. One should be sharp and sturdy enough to break through top-tier spiritual weapons with a single strike. The other should be fast and energy-efficient.

    I also need a set of flying needles with the ability to break through strong defenses, but they don''t need to possess both qualities. They should be able to conceal my divine consciousness. Additionally, I would like to customize a set of armor..."

    Lin Jiang exined his requirements one by one, requesting items that hemonly used, but with a high level of quality.

    "Friend Lin, why don''t you listen to my advice?"

    "Please speak, respected Zheng."

    "I won''t talk much about the flying sword, as our friend here cannot activate magical treasures. Let''s follow their suggestions, and we don''t really need heavy armor. I suggest using a magical robe instead. Also, there''s..."

    Based on Lin Jiang''s needs, Zheng Daqi gave suggestions to Lin Jiang. Since it''s a custom order, it should be tailored ording to the customer''s actual requirements. Star Gathering Tower does this very well.

    After thinking for a moment, Lin Jiang decided to respect the technicians'' opinions and follow their rmendations. The next step is to discuss the materials to be used. Different materials have different characteristics and prices.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang''s knowledge in this area iscking. Each craftsman specializes in their own field, and there are countless materials for refining in the cultivation world. It''s difficult for anyone to be omniscient, so professional opinions are needed.

    After a busy half-day, Zheng Daqi has recorded all of Lin Jiang''s needs and taken measurements of their body. He hands the list over to the shopkeeper.

    "Friend Lin, to make it ording to your requirements, it will cost 250,000 spirit stones."

    "Is there no discount? I am a longtime customer of Star Gathering Tower, after all."

    "This is already the discounted price, and it''s the best deal. I won''t deceive you, and everyone knows about our Zhonghang Sect."

    "Okay, it''s 250,000, no problem. I just have one small request."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, please speak."

    "Don''t make it fancy, keep it simple. Also, I require confidentiality about my identity. I don''t want anyone else to know about this, or else I''ll report it to the elders of your sect through Cao Ying."

    "Taoist friend, don''t worry. Star Gathering Tower in Yunzhong City is very strict in following the rules. I guarantee, on behalf of Star Gathering Tower, that this matter will only involve a maximum of five people. The sixth person will never find out."

    The shopkeeper nodded. Keeping confidentiality for high-level customers was their basic requirement. Lin Jiang had mentioned it, so naturally, the confidentiality level had to be raised once again.

    "Alright, let''s leave it at that."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, please pay a deposit of 50,000 upfront. The remaining amount can be paid on the day of delivery."

    "How long will it take to refine it?"

    "Three months"

    Zheng Daqi said on the side, some materials still need to be sourced from other ces, which will take time.

    "Then it will be three months."

    Lin Jiang didn''t ask to shorten the time, he needed to maintain quality and quantity.

    Lin Jiang paid a deposit of fifty thousand spirit stones and then left the Star Gathering Tower.

    "Zheng Master, you heard what Taoist Friend Lin said. You need to personally handle this matter, don''t let the disciples fool around. We can''t afford to offend this person."

    "Hehe, don''t worry, shopkeeper. I know him, he is Cao Ying''s uncle."

    Zheng Daqi nodded. Cao Ying has been the most outstanding genius in the Zhonghang Sect in recent years. Not only is she exceptionally talented, but she is also loved by the two elders Chen Mingyang and Ouyang Qing. Who dares to offend him?

    "It''s good that you know. Let''s not say much else. Once this matter is aplished, you will receive a highermission."

    The shopkeeper nodded. Now no one wants to offend Cao Ying, plus Lin Jiang is their important customer, so they naturally have to serve him well.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Lin Jiang left Star Gathering Tower and went straight to the northern part of the city. Luckily, there was a cave just vacated in the north, so Lin Jiang rented it for three months.

    Upon entering the cave, Lin Jiang took out the True Spirit Pill for cultivation. In all these years, he has never been so diligent as he is now. But he has no choice, because the current Lin Jiang feels a sense of urgency and crisis.

    The matter involving He familyбпs young master is rted to Cloud Sword Sect. If something happens, Zhonghang Sect cannot guarantee his safety, after all, he is not a disciple of Zhonghang Sect and his rtionship with Cao Ying is not strong enough.

    Lin Jiang understands these rtionships very well. If it doesn''t involve the core interests of Zhonghang Sect, everyone is willing to give him face, but once it touches the core interests, it bes difficult. The rtionship between Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect is indeed a core interest, there''s no denying that.

    After three months, Lin Jiang returned the rented cave in the north of the city. To his embarrassment, despite three months of hard cultivation, his cultivation only slightly improved and he was still at the early stage of Building foundation. Lin Jiang once again felt the gap in his talent in this body.

    Coming back to Star Gathering Tower, Zheng Daqi and the shopkeeper appeared again, disying the customized items one by one.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, these are superb quality spiritual tools. It takes three to five years for someone to customize one at Star Gathering Tower, and it''s worth giving them names. We didn''t name them confidently, so how about you suggest one?"

    "I''ll go back ande again, once I confirm everything is correct, then we can trade."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he didn''t really spend much thought naming the spirit tool, an item is just an item, cultivators should not rely too much on them, their own cultivation is the most important.

    Lin Jiang used all his knowledge to discern each one, but of course he didn''t discern anything, he could only feel the impressive power of these items from their aura. Star Gathering Tower has been a reputable business for hundreds of years, they wouldn''t sell inferior goods. The bigger the business, the more they value their reputation, and reputation is an invisible wealth.

    Afterpleting the delivery of the spirit stones, Lin Jiang left and stayed one more day in Yunzhong City. In the inn, he consecrated and imprinted his own divine consciousness on the various spirit tools before he could use them freely.

    "For an ordinary Building foundation stage cultivator, having one or two high-quality spirit tools is already a luxury. How can they have as many equipments as I do? Relying on these equipments, I am not afraid of the threats of the mid-stage of Building foundation. If I add the Explosive Element Technique, I can even defeat cultivators in thete stage of Building foundation."

    Lin Jiang said to himself, if he encountered Chen Jianhong from back then, he wouldn''t need Zhang Ruifang to sacrifice herself, he could kill him easily.

    Early the next morning, Lin Jiang flew to Yunzhong Mountain Range, it''s time to take Sun Man''s cave. If he didn''t take it soon, it might be someone else''s opportunity.

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80

    In the middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range, in front of Sun Man''s cave.

    "Boom, boom, boom."

    Intense bursts of explosions rang out. Hu Buwei looked at the formation in front of him with great helplessness. He led over ten Qi Refining Period cultivators and had been attacking for over half a month. But the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation truly lived up to its reputation as a third-tier formation. There was still no sign of breaking it.

    "Elder, we are exhausted."

    A cultivator at the Qi Refining Period spoke to Hu Buwei, saying that the spiritual power of Qi Refining Period cultivators was not strong enough. After an hour of fighting, they needed to rest and recover their spiritual power.

    "Take a rest, once your spiritual power is restored, we will immediately take action. The treasures inside this formation are beyond your imagination. Drinking a potion will be enough to support you for three to five years."

    Hu Buwei once again made big promises to them. He didn''t dare ask for help from a cultivator at the Building Foundation Period, as that would inevitably lead to infighting. But it would be different with someone at the Qi Refining Period. He would decide how much they would get in the end.

    The leader at the Qi Refining Period showed a happy expression. Before this, they had attacked the outeryer of the second-order formation and only took three days to break it. After breaking the formation, they discovered a fifty-acre spiritualnd filled with medicinal herbs. Each person''s share of the herbs was worth thousands of spirit stones. If they could break the formation inside, they would make a huge profit.

    "Someone ising."Just as everyone sat down to rest, they sensed someone arriving through the air. More than ten people immediately stood up and took out their magical weapons to prepare. Hu Buwei also took out his own flying sword.

    "Taoist Friend Lin"

    Hu Buwei saw the neer and felt relieved. They were all people who had attended a meeting with Sun Man before, people he knew. Friend Lin was still at the early stage of building their foundation as an independent cultivator, while he was already at the mid-stage of building his foundation, so he had nothing to worry about.

    "So it''s Friend Hu who practices Taoism. What is Friend Hu here for?"

    "Friend Lin, you may not know this, but Friend Sun has gone on a long journey. Before leaving, they entrusted the cave to me for safekeeping. If Friend Lin doesn''t have any urgent matters, it''s best to leave for now. Friend Hu is busy with something and can''t entertain Friend Lin."

    "Is that so? But I also received a request from Friend Sun to help manage the cave."

    Lin Jiang said coldly. He was furious because he had returned from Yunzhong City to find that his house had been robbed.

    The formations were broken through, and all the spiritual medicines in the spiritualnd were taken away. Even the spiritual fruits on the mountain werepletely picked, and the spiritual bamboo at the entrance was uprooted. Damn it, they even took away the fish fry in the fishpond.

    It was aplete ransacking, almost making Lin Jiang vomit blood. This was a home he had spent over three years building, investing so many spirit stones and effort into it. He hadn''t even had the chance to enjoy it, and now everything had been cheapened by someone else.

    Moreover, it seemed like it had been several days already, and he had nowhere to even start investigating. How could he not be angry?

    "It seems that Taoist Friend Lin also knows about Sun Taoist Friend''s unfortunate situation. So, I won''t pretend anymore, Taoist Friend Lin. This ce is mine now, please leave."

    Hu Buwei smiled and said. The biggest opportunity in the middle of the Yunzhong Mountain Range is other people''s caves. Many independent cultivators are watching many caves. If a cave has been inactive for more than a month, someone will target it.

    They will determine if the owner of the cave is dead, missing, or in seclusion, and then make a choice. If they choose correctly, they will benefit greatly. If they choose wrongly, they might lose their lives.

    However, there are still many people doing this job every year. Some even set traps and specifically hunt down those independent cultivators. Yunzhong City has seen countless independent cultivators who just arrived and didn''t know the risks, and lost their lives here.

    Hu Buwei was also a member of the exchange meeting a few months ago. When Liu Dong killed fuliu-jian and Shen Bo, he was there too. Like Lin Jiang, he chose to go home at that time.

    After that, he never heard any news from Sun Man, so he sent people to keep an eye on him. They watched for about three months, but never saw Sun Man. He realized that something had happened to Sun Man, so he gathered a group of people to seize the cave.

    Lin Jiang wasn''t the first toe here. Several others hade before, but he scared them away. This is how the Yunzhong Mountain Range isбкit''s a survival of the fittest, where the strong prevail.

    "It''s a coincidence, I also have my eye on this ce. You can leave now."

    "It seems that today I am going to ask Taoist Friend Lin to teach me some great tricks."

    "Come on"

    Lin Jiang also took out his flying sword, an excellent quality spiritual weapon, which looked in and unremarkable.

    "Go"

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    The two of them were a hundred meters apart, each summoning their flying sword. The two flying swords quickly collided in midair.

    "Snap"

    With a crisp sound, Hu Buwei''s flying sword instantly shattered. This scene made people gasp in disbelief and feel heartbroken. After all, this was a high-quality spiritual weapon sword that he had spent a lot of money to buy. And now it was gone just like that?

    Lin Jiang''s flying sword continued its momentum, directly aiming for Hu Buwei''s face. Hu Buwei immediately threw out a second-order defense spiritual talisman and took out a shield spell to defend himself.

    "Boom"

    Lin Jiang''s flying sword pierced through the protective shield created by the spiritual talisman, and then stabbed Hu Buwei'' magic shield. Hu Buwei felt a strong jolt in his hand, causing his face to turn pale.

    "So strong!"

    "Come again!"

    Lin Jiang activated his flying sword, causing it to swing back and then fly out again.

    "Golden light spell!"

    Hu Buwei yelled, he only had one flying sword, once it was used, it disappeared. But he wasn''t willing to give up just like that. He quickly performed a spell gesture, wanting to fight against Lin Jiang again. It didn''t make sense for a mid-level Building Foundation cultivator to lose to an early-stage Building Foundation cultivator.

    The golden light hit Lin Jiang''s flying sword but had no effect. The sword directly pierced through Hu Buwei'' magic shield, breaking through his arm and causing him to scream in pain.

    "St"

    The scream abruptly stopped, a drop of blood appeared on Hu Buwei'' temple, slowly growingrger. Hu Buwei copsed to the ground.

    Lin Jiang put away his flying sword and also retrieved the hidden flying needles. These needles are superb quality spiritual weapons, made primarily from the tail needle of a certain third-level demonic bee, inscribed with special formations. Even someone in the Golden Core Period wouldn''t be able to notice them if they weren''t serious.

    "Run quickly."

    Seeing Hu Buwei defeated and dead, the rest of the Qi Refining Period cultivators immediately scattered. Lin Jiang didn''t bother chasing after them. There was no need.

    Lin Jiang approached and took Hu Buwei'' storage bag, then dug a hole nearby and buried him. Lin Jiang was someone who paid attention to details. While others might only care about killing, he took care of both killing and burial.

    Taking out Sun Man''s control token, Lin Jiang swaggered into Sun Man''s cave. The area controlled by Sun Man''s cave was evenrger than his own home, but the core region was only a few hundred acres. The spiritual medicines and such in the outer regions were all gone.

    "Purple Gold Tooth, Yellow Purple Flower, Three-Leaf Lotus, and many second-level spiritual medicines, all main ingredients for True Yuan Pills."

    Lin Jiang nced at the Spiritual Herb Garden in the core region, which had arge-scale cultivation of second-level spiritual medicines used by cultivators in the Building Foundation Period. Most of them were main ingredients for True Yuan Pills. Considering Sun Man''s identity as an alchemist, this wasn''t surprising.

    However, the most precious thing was a Spiritual Herb Garden behind the cave. It covered about five acres and had only twelve nts. Each nt was isted by its own formation. These were fourth-level spiritual medicines, and each nt had a medicinal age of over a hundred years.

    "Where did Sun Man get these good things? So many, he hit the jackpot."

    Lin Jiang was suddenly filled with joy. The fourth-grade spiritual medicine was very valuable and difficult to cultivate. If they were allowed to mature, each nt could make even an ordinary Building Foundation Period cultivator wake upughing in the middle of the night.

    "It seems like Sun Man has invested a lot in these twelve spiritual medicines."

    Lin Jiang noticed a pile of powdered spirit stones nearby. Those were the result of spirit stones being depleted of spiritual energy. Lin Jiang estimated that there were at least tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    But thinking about it, Sun Man''s spiritual energy in his cave was not enough to support the growth of the fourth-grade spiritual medicines. Even if he used the Spirit Gathering Formation to gather the spiritual energy from several kilometers around, it wouldn''t be enough because he also had other spiritual medicines to take care of and his cultivation also required consumption. So he had to use spirit stones to supplement it.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Sun Man, my Taoist friend, in the future, I will invest more in your investments. You can rest assured that I won''t waste a single bit of these twelve spiritual medicines."

    Lin Jiang silently thought to himself, cultivating high-grade spiritual medicines was like a long-term investment for cultivators, simr to ying fixed investments. Every year, or even every month, you would invest some funds in it for several decades or even hundreds of years. Then you would receive arge harvest, perhaps even bing rich overnight.

    Lin Jiang saw how much effort Sun Man had put into this, so he couldn''t waste it. He had to pick up where Sun Man left off.

    Wealth, it doesn''t disappear, it only transfers, just like a smile, transferring from your face to mine.

    Lin Jiang found the foundation of the Spiritual Herb Garden and rearranged the spirit stones. Afterwards, he toured the core area.

    The next step was a clean sweep, erasing all traces of Sun Man''s existence. From now on, this cave would be renamed Lin''s.

    Two dayster, Lin Jiang went to Yunzhong City once again and bought a second-order formation set. He incorporated Sun Man''s original cave into it, serving as the outer perimeter.

    Lin Jiang decided to stop taking care of bamboo, fruits, and fish ponds. It was taking too much time and not bringing much profit. Instead, he scattered a lot of magic medicine seeds, following the way those bad uncles did. He would let nature take its course and see how many would grow. After all, it was impossible to control everything.

    In theing time, he felt that he needed to work hard.

    "Say no to beingcent, say no toziness, and let''s start with me."

    Lin Jiang gave himself a pat on the back, and it made him feel really touched.

 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81

    Northern part of Yunzhong Mountain Range

    The Five Immortals Sect is a small sect that was established less than a hundred years ago. It was formed by five cultivators who had reached the Building Foundation stage. However, after several decades, none of them achieved immortality and they passed away. Nevertheless, their disciples inherited their legacy, and the Five Immortals Sect is now thriving.

    Near the entrance of the Five Immortals Sect, there is a small market established by the sect. It is not very big and has only a few shops. However, there is a famous fish shop run by a couple who cook delicious fish. Their fame has spread to the surrounding areas, and people from other ces oftene here to try their fish.

    "Herees the fish!"

    A waiter called out and brought a te of food to the table. There were already more than ten fish dishes on the table, cooked in various ways such as fried, grilled, boiled, steamed, and even served raw with pickled vegetables.

    "Bring us another te of fish sashimi and two different types of dipping sauces. Make one of them spicy."

    Lin Jiang picked up a thin slice of raw fish and dipped it in the sauce before putting it in his mouth. The taste of freshness filled his mouth, giving him a very pleasant sensation.

    "The cultivation world is still better, no need to worry about parasites, hehe."

    Lin Jiang wondered in his heart. Cultivators are not afraid of parasite infections. They can use their divine sense to inspect their bodies and quickly detect any parasites. They can then force the parasites out of their bodies using their divine sense, or even directly kill them. That''s why fish slices are very popr near Yunzhong City.With a sweep of his magical power, Lin Jiang finished off all the dishes on the table. These fish were all low-grade first-level monster fish. Once he swallowed them, they would be easily refined and disappear. Even if there were three or five more tables, Lin Jiang would be able to finish them all.

    "Waiter, pleasee over here."

    "Sir, what else do you need?"

    "Please ask your boss and thedy boss toe over here."

    "Um..."

    "If I ask you to go, then go."

    Lin Jiang revealed a bit of his divine sense. The waiter''s face immediately changed when he saw that Lin Jiang was only at the first level of Qi Refining. He quickly went to call someone.

    After a while, a couple walked out. The man had a rather old face, looking to be in his sixties or seventies, while the woman had taken an Appearance Fixing Pill, still preserving her charm. It was clear that she had been a beauty in her youth.

    "Have you met the elders? Do you know why they called me?"

    "Let''s find a quiet ce to talk about something."

    Lin Jiang casually threw two spirit stones to the nearby innkeeper. This restaurant isn''t expensive. One spirit stone should be enough for a table full of dishes. This ce is not like Yunzhong City.

    When the two saw Lin Jiang throw the spirit stones, they felt relieved. If he was willing to pay, it meant he probably wasn''t looking for trouble.

    Inviting Lin Jiang to the backyard, he got straight to the point and said, "I am Liu Dong''s friend, here to find you."

    The two''s faces changed drastically upon hearing this. Liu Siyu even said directly, "Elder, you must be joking. We don''t know who Liu Dong is."

    "You are Liu Siyu, Liu Dong''s cousin. And you are Liu Datong, the former disciple of Yunzhong City''s Trident Fish Gang, am I right?"

    "Elder, we..."

    "If I really wanted to cause trouble for you, why would I need evidence? Haven''t you heard the saying ''Better to kill the wrong person than to let them go''?"

    "Well, I am Liu Siyu. How is my brother Liu Dong doing?"

    "He''s dead."

    "What?"

    Liu Siyu trembled all over, her whole body shaking. Liu Datong quickly embraced his wife.

    "Liu Dong almost wiped out the entire Giant Wave Fish Gang. He killed the leader, fuliu-jian, the Grand Elder Shen Bo, and all the members in the main hall. He personally killed at least two hundred members of the Gang. This can be considered as revenge for what happened to you all those years ago."

    "Alright, alright, Senior Liu, um..."

    Liu Datong quickly said. In fact, he and Liu Siyu had long abandoned the idea of seeking revenge. The water in the fishing gang was too deep, and they, as mere Qi Refining Period cultivators, could not take revenge.

    "Alright then. Before Liu Dong died, he asked me toe and see how you two are doing now."

    "Very good, we are doing very well..."

    Liu Datong quickly exined their family''s situation. They have been living well and veryfortably for several decades. After the original five Building Foundation members of the Five Immortals Sect passed away, Liu Datong''s eldest brother took over as the head of the Building Foundation Period. Their sons may not have great talents, but they are hardworking. They now manage severalrge fish ponds to supply their fish shop. Their fish shop is doing well and they make a profit of one or two thousand spirit stones each year.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Among their grandchildren, there are a few with good talents who have be disciples of the Five Immortals Sect. They have great future potential.

    "Knowing that you are doing well is enough. In this storage bag, there are fifty thousand spirit stones and several dozen manuals and secret techniques. Liu Dong asked me to deliver them to you. Originally, he nned to give them to you in multiple installments, but I found it too troublesome, so I decided to give them all at once."

    Lin Jiang took out the storage bag and said. Initially, Liu Dong underestimated fuliu-jian and Shen Bo''s wealth. He thought that thebined total of nine storage bags would be only around one hundred and twenty thousand spirit stones. But he didn''t expect that fuliu-jian alone had more than that. However, Lin Jiang didn''t intend to give them too much either, considering that he already spent more than half.

    It is very risky for young children to carry so much money in a bustling city. Fifty thousand spirit stones could bring them certain dangers. If it weren''t for them mentioning that the head of the Five Immortals Sect is Liu Datong''s eldest brother and that his grandson is a personal disciple of the sect, Lin Jiang would not have given them everything at once.

    "Fifty thousand spirit stones..."

    Both Liu Siyu and herpanion were stunned. Their family works hard all year and only earns one or two thousand spirit stones. It would take them twenty years to earn fifty thousand.

    "Senior, there is something I would like to ask for your help with."

    "Go ahead, tell me."

    "Can we exchange these fifty thousand spirit stones for one Building Foundation Pill, just one Building Foundation Pill?"

    "A Building Foundation Pill doesn''t cost fifty thousand spirit stones. In Yunzhong City, it only costs forty thousand."

    "We don''t need any more. Let''s show our respect to the seniors."

    "What''s the reason?"

    "Safety is important. Although the leader of Five Immortals Sect is our uncle, there are other people in the sect who are in the Building Foundation Period. Spirit stones are too noticeable. If someone discovers them, our lives will be in danger. Besides, it''s very difficult to buy Building Foundation Pills around here. Even if we manage to buy them, there''s no guarantee that we''ll survive long enough to use them. I want to secure a future for my grandson."

    Liu Siyu said, "Having spirit stones in hand requires spending them, but the expenses can add up. Even if we''re careful, someone close to us might discover it, which could bring trouble and harm us."

    The most important thing is that the level of cultivation here is rtively low, and Building Foundation Pills are especially difficult to buy. If we buy them, we might be targets. Building Foundation Pills would be more helpful to our family than spirit stones.

    "That makes sense."

    Lin Jiang looked at Liu Siyu with surprise. It had been decades, but Liu Siyu was showing an umon decisiveness. Back then, she wouldn''t have even thought about these things.

    "Did the senior agree?"

    "Agreed."

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out a magic stone from the bag, but he gave them the copied cultivation techniques. He happened to have one Building Foundation Pill left, which was equivalent to selling it and gaining an extra ten thousand magic stones.

    "Thank you, senior."

    "I''m leaving."

    "Wait, senior. I don''t even know your name yet."

    "Cold River, a lone shadow. Old friend from the martial arts world. Why must we have known each other before? Haha."

    With a few words, Lin Jiang disyed his techniques, swiftly departed, and disappeared before their eyes.

    "Madam, this senior..."

    "I don''t know either."

    Liu Siyu shook her head, but her eyes twinkled, and she remembered someone, could it be him?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Lin Jiang left the territory of Five Immortals Sect and traveled to various ces. He lived in Yunzhong City and inevitably had to deal with Cao Ying and Zhonghang Sect under the identity of Lin Sheng. He used the excuse of going out to gain experience, as he couldn''t stay in Yunzhong Mountain Range all the time. If someone were to ask, he might reveal his real intentions. He needed to be careful with the details.

    Of course, Lin Jiang had a certain ability to protect himself. As long as he didn''t encounter particrly powerful cultivators in theter stages of Building foundation or the Golden Core Period, he didn''t think he would be afraid. In a fight, who knows who would win?

    The most prosperous ce in the cultivation world of Yun State is the central area of Yuntuo River, specifically the region around Yunzhong City. It is the foundation of the two major sects and has arge number of cultivators.

    Other ces, particrly near the mountain gate of Five Elements Sect, are somewhat better. Otherwise, most ces are sparsely popted and filled with primitive scenery and wild beasts. However, the wild beasts are not powerful; they are mostly at the first and second stages. Rarely, there are beasts at the third stage or higher, and most of them have been hunted by cultivators.

    After wandering around, Lin Jiang arrived near Anhua City and lingered for a long time, but ultimately didn''t go in. It has been seventy or eighty years since he left the Lin family, and he feared meeting members of the Lin family. He didn''t know how to face them, couldn''t exin himself, and was afraid of exposing his secret.

    "Lin Die and Lin Ying have already reached the golden core stage. If nothing unexpected happens, they can live for over three hundred years. There is still time, there is still a chance."

    In the Lin family''s thoughts, there were not many people he was close to. Most of them had already passed away. Only Lin Die and Lin Ying were still around. Even Lin Batian, he was not close to him either. After turning seventeen, they only exchanged a few words each year.

    Now that Lin Die and Lin Ying have already advanced to the Golden Core Period, which has a lifespan of five hundred years, and they are not even two hundred years old yet, there is still a long time left. When Lin Jiang has enough strength to protect himself and is not afraid of his secret being revealed, maybe he wille back.

    After taking a walk around, Lin Jiang returned to Yunzhong City and bought a batch of True Yuan Pills. He went back to his cave dwelling to cultivate. Lin Jiang decided to practice in seclusion for a while, trying to improve his cultivation as much as possible. At the very least, he wanted to ensure that he could be invincible in the Building Foundation Period while using the Explosive Element Technique. Only then would he have some capability to roam the world.

 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82

    In the cultivation world, there are some cultivators who are really death-defying in their practice. They may spend twenty-four hours a day cultivating.

    Hungry?

    Non-existent, let me introduce you to the Inedia Pill. Taking one can allow you to go without food for several months.

    Sleeping?

    Sorry, during the Building Foundation Period, you can go without sleep for several months. If pushed to the extreme, even half a year without sleep is no problem.

    Entertainment?

    Isn''t cultivation a form of entertainment? When tired from meditation, you can practice spells or take a break with secret techniques.

    This type of person is called a Scroll King in Blue Star and a Ascetic Practitioner in the cultivation world.

    Lin Jiang really wanted to be an Ascetic Practitioner, but he eventually gave up after trying for a few days. This lifestyle was too boring and difficult, and there were also many potential problems.Almost every cultivator uses elixirs, even if they are top-quality ones. They might contain a bit of drug poison. If elixirs are taken continuously, the drug poison umtes and has a huge impact on the future. Each elixir must be taken with a two-day interval.

    So Lin Jiang''s cultivation only meant giving up his time for farming, giving up time to y with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, and reducing time for drawing symbols. His daily practice time increased to ten hours, which rounded up to being a hardworking person.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Blinking his eyes, Lin Jiang was already 175 years old. After years of arduous cultivation, Lin Jiang decided to reward himself by going to Yunzhong City.

    Equipped with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, Lin Jiang once again arrived at Yingchun Pavilion. He was a sentimental person, visiting Yingchun Pavilion eight out of ten times. Each time, he engaged in heart-to-heart conversations with different little fairies, discussing the true meaning of life.

    "Taoist Friend Linг┐"

    Just as Lin Jiang entered the grand gates of Spring Coming Tower, he heard someone call out from behind. Lin Jiang turned around confidently and saw a young man with a smile catching up to him.

    "So you are Taoist Friend Lin?"

    Lin Jiang greeted him with a smile. The independent cultivators of Yunzhong Mountain Range are constantly changing. In just a few years, Sun Man and his group were no longer around, reced by new Building Foundation independent cultivators.

    The person in front of Lin Jiang, Xie Youjia, was his new neighbor, not even thirty miles apart. Xie Youjia was a Formation Master who once tried to sell his formations to Lin Jiang, but Lin Jiang didn''t need them since he already had second-tier formations. They had interacted a few times but weren''t very close.

    "I thought Friend Lin was a dedicated cultivator. I didn''t expect to meet Friend Lin here."

    "Friend Lin is also righteous, I see."

    "Haha, we''re both honorable. How about we exchange some tips?"

    "I don''t have that interest."

    "Haha, me too. Let''s wait a bit and meet in a private room to chat. It''s a good opportunity for me to talk to Taoist Friend Lin about something."

    "Sure, but with my abilities, it takes at least two hours. Can Taoist Friend wait?"

    "I''m sorry, I''m busy for four hours. I also have to switch partners in the middle. My Xie Family talent is quite impressive."

    "Haha..."

    The two of them smiled slyly, then went their separate ways, pretending not to know each other for now.

    Two hourster, they dressed up and arrived at the private room in Spring Coming Tower. Many people gathered there, and after finishing their tasks, they would chat together. The social function of Spring Coming Tower was also very important. They not only provided quiet rooms, but also served tea and fruit.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, what do you need from me? If it''s to exchange experiences, there''s no need. I''m skilled in all eighteen martial arts."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I''m also a serious person, you know."

    Xie Youjia forced a smile. Why was Taoist Friend Lin so yful? He always threw curveballs at him. Was it really time for wise people now? Is he really that powerful?

    "I am also a serious person, so go ahead, what''s the matter?"

    "Has Taoist Friend Lin considered settling in other ces?"

    "Would Taoist Friend not like to start a sect for fun?"

    Lin Jiang asked. Independent cultivators face many difficulties, so after reaching the Building Foundation Period, they start seeking new paths. Either they, like Lin Batian, marry multiple wives and establish a family, or they, like the Five Immortals Sect, establish a sect.

    Generally speaking, it is easier to establish a family, as it involves one''s own bloodline and naturally feels more intimate. Establishing a sect is more difficult, mainly because reliable people are hard to find.

    "No, I am still young and have some strength in the Golden Core realm. I meant to settle in a better ce."

    "Please exin it more clearly."

    "Do you know Anhua City?"

    "Yes, it''s a major city in the southwest of Yun State and holds a significant position in the whole Yun State."

    "That''s right, Anhua City has changed ownership in the past two years. During the change of leadership, a war broke out, causing significant damage to Anhua City and driving away many independent cultivators. The current owner of Anhua City, in order to develop the city, has recentlye to Yunzhong City and has been coaxing many independent cultivators to join. If someone has achievements in Pills, Talismans, Items, and Formations, they can receive great benefits. They approached me, a Formation Master in the early second stage. If I go to Anhua City, I can have a house and establish a business with three years of tax exemption and a half reduction in tax for ten years."

    "It seems that Anhua City is being managed by extraordinary individuals. Who is the current ruler of Anhua City?"

    Lin Jiang''s heart stirred. He remembered hearing people talk about it a few years ago. It seemed that it was the Lin family who was plotting for Anhua City. Could it be the doing of Lin Batian?

    The current ruler of Anhua City is the Lin family, a prestigious family of cultivators. The family head is named Lin Batian. Speaking of Lin Batian, he is a legendary figure among us independent cultivators. About two hundred years ago, Lin Batian was still a rtively unknown cultivator at the Building Foundation stage. He settled in the southwest of Yun State and continuously expanded his influence, constantly improving his cultivation. He went from the Building Foundation Period to the Nascent Soul stage, experiencing smooth sailing all along.

    The Lin family, which started with Lin Batian alone, has now grown to include eight hundred members and dozens of subordinate forces. They have be the dominant power in the southwest of Yun State, the only one.

    Xie Youjia said that every sessful independent cultivator is a legendary figure in the eyes of countless struggling independent cultivators. Pill King Li Ruoxu was also such a figure. Li Ruoxu''s alchemy skills have surpassed those of the two major sects, and countless independent cultivators are proud of him, considering him a guiding light in life.

    Now, Lin Batian''s deeds have gradually spread to Yunzhong City, causing countless independent cultivators to envy him. With multiple wives and children, he has taken control of the city. But in the eyes of ordinary people, this is just an ordinary fulfillment in life.

    "The Lin family is so powerful, I really want to meet them. Could you please show me the way, taoist friend?"

    Lin Jiang nodded. He wanted to see who from the Lin family hade to Yunzhong City and if there were any familiar faces.

    "Okay, okay, the people from the Lin family are in Yunzhong City. We''ll go there early tomorrow morning, how about that?"

    Xie Youjia nodded. There was one more thing he hadn''t mentioned - he wanted to rmend a talented person from the Lin family. There would be a reward for that - not only would he receive spirit stones, but his tax exemption period for opening his store would also be extended. For this reason, he had been busy running around for several days.

    "Then we''ll see each other again tomorrow."

    "Ah, Taoist Friend Lin, are you going back to battle again?"

    "The beautifuldy feels lonely and can''t sleep peacefully. How could I ever allow thedy to be like this? Goodbye."

    "Haha, you''re acting as if I''m someone who doesn''t recognize others. Let''s go then."

    Xie Youjia burst intoughter and quickly bid his farewell. If someone with the surname Lin is so powerful, he doesn''t want to be left behind either.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Yunzhong CityгмWest City

    Lin Die, with more than ten members of the Lin family, directly rented a small inn. Early in the morning, Lin Die and the family members held a meeting with a list in hand.

    "We came to Yunzhong City to recruit talented individuals. Talented individuals in Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, as well as in Spiritual Farming, Puppetry, and Construction Arts, are wee. However, if onecks any particr skill, we wee them to Anhua City but cannot offer any benefits. We must strictly screen them..."

    Lin Die emphasized again that the process of the Lin family taking over Anhua City was not smooth. Anhua City originally had a Nascent Soul Ancestor overseeing it, but that Nascent Soul Ancestor had been approaching the end of their lifespan for several decades without passing away.

    Finally, news of their passing came a few years ago, but it turned out to be a sham. They wanted to use it as an opportunity to ambush Lin Batian, but fortunately, Lin Batian had extraordinary cultivation and managed to kill them when attacked.

    However, after the battle, Anhua City wasrgely destroyed, and many cultivators fled the city. Later, the Lin family purged the cultivators aligned with the previous owners, resulting in Anhua City''s cultivator poption being less than one-fifth of what it used to be.

    A city needs talented individuals to prosper, which would then provide wealth for the Lin family. However, ordinary independent cultivators are easy to attract, but those with true talent are not necessarily easy to find.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Therefore, the Lin family''s senior members sent Lin Die to Yunzhong City specifically to recruit talent, in order to develop Anhua City as quickly as possible.

    As for what constitutes talent, for cultivators, isn''t it just Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation? These talented individuals are important for the city. With their arrival, the market will have more products, attracting more people to live and consume there, which will bring in tax revenue.

    "Third Ancestor, we understand. We will never let go of a talented individual and will not allow any mediocrity to deceive us."

    "It''s okay if you know. Today is the same as yesterday. Me and Changrong, Changsheng are guarding the inn and assessing those people. Chao Yun, Chao Xia, you lead the team to promote at the three major markets in Yunzhong City. Remember not to cause trouble, even though Cloud Sword Sect and Zhonghang Sect have already been informed about us recruiting people and are not happy about it."

    Lin Die nodded. This time, the members sent by the Lin family are all capable and mature. Hopefully, nothing goes wrong.

    Lin Changrong, Lin Changsheng, Lin Chaoyun, Lin Chaoxia all agreed, and then Lin Chaoyun and Lin Chaoxia led the team and left the inn to go to the bustling market where independent cultivators gather to promote.

    After a while, independent cultivators who had passed the Lin family''s assessment came with people they rmended. The Lin family promised to reward them, and they were all very enthusiastic.

    Lin Die personally assessed them. They reported their skills, and she had them demonstrate on the spot. It was easy to see if they had real abilities.

    "Sixth Brother"

    The inn was very busy. After a while, when Lin Die looked up, she saw a familiar figure. She eximed in surprise, and everyone''s gaze followed Lin Die''s words and looked toward a corner of the inn.

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83

    Yunzhong CityгмWest City

    Lin Jiang saw many familiar taoist friends at the inn. Most of them lived in the middle section of the Yun State mountain range. It''s natural to chat a few words when meeting acquaintances.

    Through chatting, Lin Jiang discovered that the conditions in Anhua City were very attractive to many independent cultivators. The main reason was that the cost of living in Yunzhong City was too high, especially the rent. It could easily cost thousands of spirit stones per year. Over time, it would be a significant expense.

    While chatting, Lin Die''s voice saying "Sixth Brother" reached Lin Jiang''s ears, making him feel startled.

    Could it be? He had been practicing the Disguise Skill for decades and could be considered highly skilled. Could she still recognize him?

    Lin Jiang calmly turned around and locked eyes with Lin Die. Seeing the young man in front of her, Lin Die shook her head inwardly. This wasn''t her younger brother. Her younger brother, even if he had broken through to the Building Foundation stage, should be over 170 years old by now. Even if he had taken longevity treasures and Appearance Fixing Pills, there should still be signs of aging on his body.

    "I''m sorry, taoist friend. I mistook you for someone else. Your figure greatly resembles that of my younger brother."

    "It''s alright, senior. My surname is also Lin. Perhaps our families have a blood rtionship."

    "Is that so, taoist friend? What is your name?""I am Lin Wu."

    "Oh, it''s the same name and surname as the Thirty-second Uncle!"

    Lin Changrong eximed beside, and Lin Die red at him, causing Lin Changrong to quickly close his mouth.

    "Senior Lin, let me introduce you. This is my best friend Lin Wu. He''s a skilled Talisman Maker of the Second Order. He can draw sixteen types of low-grade spiritual talismans."

    "Oh, there are eighteen types. Thank you."

    Lin Jiang added on the side, saying that in all these years of building foundations, he didn''t ck off. Drawing talismans was his livelihood, so he had to put in effort to learn.

    "Taoist friend, you''re talented. How abouting over and having a chat?"

    Lin Die nodded. Being able to draw eighteen spiritual talismans was considered high level among Second Order Talisman Makers, and they needed talented people like that.

    Lin Jiang followed Lin Die into a room, and the two sat facing each other. Lin Die said, "Taoist friend, are you aware of the rules for recruiting talents in our Anhua City this time?"

    "I''ve heard about it. Providing houses, tax exemptions, and reductions, right?"

    "No, my Taoist friend is a master at creating formations. It''s the most difficult and rarest skill among the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals. That''s why we can offer a house as a gift. For Talisman Makers, there are more people, so we can''t give houses, but we can waive the rent. If my Taoist friend passes our assessment, we can exempt them from paying rent for twenty years in a three-story house. It''s the same as tax-free or reduced taxes."

    Lin Die said. Not just anyone can receive a house as a gift. Otherwise, there wouldn''t be enough houses in Anhua City to give out. Being a Formation Master is the most difficult profession among the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals and has the fewest practitioners. So the requirements have been lowered. If it''s a Talisman Maker, they have to be at least a second-tier premium Talisman Maker.

    "Actually, whether you give it or not, I''m not interested in Anhua City."

    "Is that so?"

    "Senior, don''t you believe it?"

    "I don''t believe it. You saw outside yourself. There are many people who want to go to Anhua City."

    "So, senior, do you believe that within a year, even if everyone from outside goes there, more than half will disappear?"

    "That''s exaggerating."

    Lin Die''s face turned cold. She didn''t like the person in front of her. She thought they were just a arrogant person trying to attract her attention with their wild words.

    "Then let me ask you a question. If you can give me an answer, I will work for you for ten years without pay. How about that?"

    "Go ahead and ask."

    "Sir, do you believe that a chickenys eggs, or that eggs give birth to chickens?"

    "Of course, a chickenys eggs."

    "Is that so? Then please tell me, how did the first chickene into existence?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Um..."

    Lin Die suddenly became speechless and didn''t know how to answer. Yes, eggs areid by chickens, but chickens also hatch from eggs. So how did the first chickene into existence?

    "If I were to say that it''s the eggs that give birth to chickens, you would surely ask how the first egg came into existence, right?"

    "Exactly! This question has no definitive answer, but it''s quite intriguing. It can be applied to the current situation in Anhua City as well."

    "You tell me carefully."

    Lin Die immediately became interested, sitting up straight and waiting for Lin Jiang''s wise words seriously.

    "Anhua City is struggling with people''s livelihood, there are few cultivators, the Lin family hopes to strengthen Anhua City, so they are recruiting talents, and the Lin family requires those who have talent to go to Anhua City. So, we can metaphoricallypare these people to mother hens thaty eggs, right?"

    "Exactly, the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals are almost necessary for cultivators. With many talents joining Anhua City, it will naturally attract many independent cultivators and small ns toe and trade, strengthening Anhua City."

    "Have you ever considered that the pills, spiritual talismans, formations, and weapons we refine need people to buy them? Can you guarantee that everything we make can be sold, or is it that your Lin family can buy them all?"

    "No."

    Lin Die immediately said that the Lin family has less than a thousand people, plus vassal forces, only a few thousand people in total, so they dare not overstretch. Upon arriving here, she realized that Anhua City''s policy does indeed have some issues.

    "It seems that the taoist friend is indeed a talented person, not just in drawing talismans, but also in knowledge. Please enlighten me, taoist friend."

    Lin Die immediately changed her tone and humbly sought advice. With a poption of one million in Yunzhong City, there are indeed many talents. As a mere independent cultivator, she is impressed by the insights here.

    "Talking too much, you should also feel the decline of Anhua City now. Many nearby cultivatorse to Anhua City but find nothing to buy, so they came up with this method, right?"

    "Yes, the current number of shops in Anhua City is less than one-tenth of before."

    Lin Die admitted why this is so. Because they killed the previous owner of Anhua City, who had been running Anhua City for nearly a thousand years. Most of the shops in Anhua City were closely rted to them. The Lin family fought a bloody battle to seize the city, naturally they wanted to eliminate any threats and caused Anhua City to be extremely exhausted.

    "So is this simr to the chicken and egg rtionship?"

    "Indeed, it is. How can we solve it? Please enlighten us, taoist friend."

    "To solve this problem, we should first understand what the needs of your so-called talented individuals and ordinary cultivators are. For me and these people, the most important thing when going to Anhua City is to reduce our living costs, but the premise is that our ie remains the same, in order to gain more benefits, right?"

    "Yes."

    "And for the nearby cultivators of Anhua City, they hope that Anhua City has enough resources so they don''t need to go to farther ces or take more risks, right?"

    "That''s right."

    "So, how can we ensure our benefits? I think Anhua City doesn''t need so many Alchemists and Talisman Makers. If we give them enough benefits, naturally, some people will go. And not just a few, you can reduce the number of people but increase the benefits. Cultivators can take any risk for resources, even if it means going to the Wilderness and taking resources from under the mouths of monsters. So why not Anhua City? Once this group of people makes money, you just need to promote it, and everyone will think of Anhua City as a ce where they can make easy money. There will be an abundance of spirit stones everywhere, so why worry about not having anyonee?"

    "Um..."

    Lin Die felt like this was a deception.

    Lin Jiang smiled faintly, it''s just a deception, just like Blue Star. They say there are opportunities everywhere in the big cities. How many people go there every year? Once people arrive, everything bes easier. No matter which world it is, there are always more fools. Even if some people wake up and escape from the big cities or Anhua City, there will be a continuous stream of fools rushing in.

    For ordinary cultivators, it''s even simpler. Anhua City just needs to propose a strategy, like offering free membership fee, not for too long, just a year. Nearby cultivators will see it as a cheap opportunity, and they will flock to it, won''t they?

    Once peoplee, there''s nothing to be afraid of. Everyone needs to eat and find amodation. When they see pills, formations, spiritual talismans, and magical instruments, won''t they buy a few for themselves?

    Over time, when nearby cultivators around Anhua City get used to buying all their essential resources from Anhua City, then Anhua City will seed. At that time, the wealth will naturallye pouring in."

    Lin Die''s eyes immediately brightened, as if it made so much sense. Anhua City was worried about how to grow, but it seemed like it could be achieved so easily?

    "Taoist Friend, please ept Lin Die''s respect."

    "Please don''t be like this, senior. What I said was just my own opinion, an arrogant one. To run a city well, it takes a lot of effort, like creating strict rules, ensuring the safety of cultivators in the city, treating businesses and ordinary cultivators fairly, and so on. As arge cultivation city that hassted for thousands of years, Yunzhong City is actually very mature in this aspect. Seniors who havee to Yunzhong City from far away should not only see the surface, there are still many things to learn."

    Lin Jiang said. When ites to Lin Die and the Lin family, he ispletely devoted. He thinks from the Lin family''s perspective, otherwise he could easily harm the Lin family from a different angle.

    Running a city well is indeed not a simple matter. Yunzhong City has rich experience in this aspect. The Lin family can learn from it.

    Especially when Yunzhong City encounters many problems, such as conflicts between businesses and customers, or conflicts between cultivators. How does Yunzhong City handle these situations? These are experiences that can help avoid many detours.

    "Listening to your words is better than thinking for half a year. Taoist Friend Lin, would you be willing toe to my Lin family? My Lin family is willing to generously hire you as an advisor."

    "I am used to being free and unconstrained. Let''s forget about it."

    "The Lin family will not force you, Taoist Friend, but the door of the Lin family will always be open to you. If one day you want to find a new ce to live, consider my Lin family. Thend of my Lin family extends for thousands of miles, with mountains, rivers, andkes. You can freely choose a ce to live."

    Lin Die said to Lin Jiang that she thinks the Lin family now needs someone like him who can offer guidance and advice.

    "Has the Lin family be so powerful?"

    When Lin Jiang heard that the Lin family''s territory covered thousands of miles, he was shocked. It had only been a few decades since theyst met, and Lin Batian had be so powerful?

    "Around Anhua City, within thousands of miles, there are seventy-two sects and five hundred seventy families, all of whom look up to our Lin family."

    Lin Die proudly stated that this vast territory was conquered by the Lin family over the past few decades, and she was Lin Batian'' right-hand woman, the strongest among the second generation of the Lin family.

    "I see."

    Lin Jiang nodded, realizing why Lin Die and Lin Ying were able to cultivate sessfully. It seemed that the Lin family had been plundering resources relentlessly for these years, dedicating all their efforts to them, making it impossible for them not to advance.

    However, Lin Jiang also knew that the foundation of the Lin family was not actually strong. It was mainly because the Lin family''s own resources were not sufficient. With just over eight hundred cultivators, it was inadequate to manage such a vast territory. If he stayed, he would probably have to contribute to the growth of the Lin family.

    "Therefore, taoist friend should consider our Lin family. We treat our disciples equally. Many disciples of our Lin family have dedicated years of their lives and received generous rewards, including cultivation techniques, secret manuals, pills, and weapons. After contributing to the family''s expansion, we will also grant a spiritual mountain for them to thrive."

    "Thank you for your kind offer, but I''m not currently considering it. It''s gettingte, and I have some matters to attend to. I will take my leave."

    "Then, we won''t keep taoist friend. Please go ahead."

    "One more suggestion, treat those people outside well, provide good food and drinks for them. Even if it doesn''t meet the Lin family''s standards, invite them for a meal and drinks. It won''t cost much, and it will make them think that the Lin family is generous."

    Before leaving, Lin Jiang couldn''t help but add. Cheating Xie Youjia and others a little bit more and creating an image of a wealthy but gullible person is totally worth it. They will earn back their investment and more.

    "Third Ancestor, didn''t you keep him here? I heard that his skills in drawing symbols are very advanced."

    "He doesn''t want to stay. If he did, I would offer him benefits equivalent to the golden core."

    Lin Die shook her head. She was now very curious about this person. Normally, independent cultivators in Yunzhong City have a difficult life. Those who can reach the Building Foundation Period are considered talented individuals. Why would hemit the taboo of revealing secrets as if he was part of the Lin family?

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84

    Yunzhong CityгмWest City

    Lin Jiang and Xie Youjia met once again. This time, Xie Youjia wasn''t as confident as he was a few days ago. Lin Jiang knew that Lin Die had listened to his advice.

    "Thank you, my Taoist friend. What happened? Were you emptied by the little fairy from the Spring Coming Tower?"

    "Don''t say anything, the Lin family changed their mind."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Yesterday, the Lin family suddenly gathered us and told us that they would double the rewards for the people they ept. They also upgraded their house from two floors to five floors, increased the tax exemption to five years, and even gave out profound-level martial arts. The Formation Master also promised a book of second-level secret arts. I was so happy, thinking that I would benefit greatly this time. But I didn''t expect that the Lin family would impose many requirements. The businesses in their house can''t be bought, sold, or rented. And instead of recruiting dozens of people, they only want five. I was rejected, and the ones selected were all advanced-stage Building Foundation taoist friends. I can''tpete with them at all."

    Xie Youjia said with frustration, he thought he could make a fortune, but it turned out to be empty happiness in the end. If it wasn''t for the Lin family''s power, he would have flipped the table right there.

    "Don''t be angry, taoist friend. In fact, you can still make money in Anhua City, it just depends on what you do."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, do you have a solution?""Yes, not only can you make some money, but you can also y a trick on the Lin family, tricking them."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Tell me quickly. Making money is not important, but it would be great to trick them. You don''t know, I''m so upset about this."

    Xie Youjia immediately brightened up. He had already nned to go to Anhua City and reach the peak of his life, but now he has nothing. To trick them would be the best thing ever.

    I heard that the previous owner of Anhua City was named Wu, and the Wu family has been managing Anhua City for a long time. Eighty percent of the businesses in the city have a close connection with them. The Lin familypletely destroyed all those businesses and then they went to Yunzhong City.

    Nowadays, there are very few businesses left in Anhua City. However, cultivators near Anhua City still go there to buy resources. Imagine if you take a batch of goods there before the Lin family''s people return. You can sell them at a high price. But once the Lin family''s people arrive, you won''t be able to sell anything. You will make money and also give the Lin family a hard time. Won''t those people who joined the Lin family resent them? Isn''t it like tricking them?

    "Alright, but what if the Lin family turns against me and eliminates me as well?"

    "Thank you, Taoist friend. It''s rare to have such a great opportunity. Will you ept it? Also, we are independent cultivators. What is the biggest characteristic of an independent cultivator? It is freedom toe and go, to make money and then escape. Who can stop you, right? When the timees, we can hide in Yunzhong City. Can the Lin family overpower the two major sects?"

    "Yes, why didn''t I think of that? If I go now, there will be nopetition. I can make money and then run away."

    Xie Youjia suddenly realized. That''s right! Make money and run away. By then, we can hide back in Yunzhong City. What can the Lin family do to us?

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I will leave first."

    "Wait a moment, thank you, Taoist friend. No rush."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, is there anything else?"

    "How many formations do you have? How much can you make? If you want to make money, make a big bet. Gather three or five good friends, use all your savings, and first buy a batch of resources from Yunzhong City. Anhua City doesn''t have many businesses, so raise the prices slightly and you can still sell them. Earn enough money to cover twenty years of expenses at once. Isn''t that great?"

    "Well, Taoist Friend Lin, how about we cooperate?"

    "I can''t do it, as you know what''s happening in my cave mansion. The spirit medicine inside is almost ripe, so I can''t leave. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have told you about this good idea, Taoist Friend."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. It was all a scam; how could he let himself get fooled?

    If three or five people like Xie Youjia went to Anhua City, they would definitely make a profit. But if he convinces thirty or fifty more people to go, the market might be saturated. Then he would be unsure if he can sell his goods, and if he does, he''ll lose money. If he doesn''t sell, he''ll be stuck with the goods and will still have to pay for the travel expenses.

    What is this thing called? It''s spection, hype. The people who go early will definitely make money, while those who goter will be the ones getting fooled.

    "That would be such a pity."

    Xie Youjia nodded. Lin Jiang''s cave mansion was also taken from someone else, he knew that. So, there was indeed a reason why he couldn''t leave.

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend. If you make money, don''t forget to invite me for a drink."

    "This is necessary, Taoist Friend Lin. I must go now, there''s no time to waste, I need to find someone."

    Xie Youjia hurriedly left, he wanted to y a big game and gather some close friends to make a lot of money together.

    After Xie Youjia left, Lin Jiang also left, but he went to another teahouse. Someone was waiting for him there, the same Taoist friend he had met at the inn rented by Lin Die.

    Just like Xie Youjia, he was also in the early stages of Building Foundation, and had been brushed off by Lin Die, feeling down. Lin Jiang used the same tricks and said simr things, and before long, this person also hastily left.

    After deceiving seven or eight people in a row, Lin Jiang recorded his conversations with them andter hired an independent cultivator in the Qi Refining Period to deliver the recordings to Lin Die.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Third Ancestor, what is this?"

    Lin Changsheng noticed that Lin Die''s expression was not right and asked, then looked at the jade slip in her hand.

    "See for yourself."

    Lin Die handed the jade scroll to Lin Changsheng, and with a sweep of his divine consciousness, Lin Changsheng''s face lit up.

    "Who did this? Are they trying to trick us?"

    "Trick? No, they''re helping us."

    "Third Ancestor, how is this helping us? If those people rush to Anhua City all at once, what will happen to the people we recruited? It would be deceitful, and what about the reputation of our Lin family? Who would still want to go to Anhua City with us?"

    "Use your brain a little. We''ll give houses to the people we recruited, exempt them from taxes, and even waive half a year''s rent. Can these independent cultivators endure for half a year without doing business? It''s not a loss for them. And these independent cultivators have to put in half of their fortune."

    "Ah, then, who is this person? And why are they helping us?"

    Lin Changsheng was dumbfounded. It seemed to make sense that they were being helped, but who is this person? Why are they helping them? Judging from the content inside, it''s clearly a conversation. Aren''t they afraid of offending those people?

    "That''s what I want to know too."

    "Does Third Ancestor also not know who this person is?"

    "I will handle this, now I have a task for you to do."

    "Please tell me what to do, Third Ancestor."

    "Go outside and find a group of people. Teach them ording to the instructions on the jade slip. Let them go and persuade those independent cultivators. The more, the better. If there are more people going to Anhua City, we will earn more."

    "Third Ancestor, is this a good idea? Independent cultivators are not easy either. Will it be too heartless?"

    "When ites to having a conscience, a little is enough. We don''t need too much. Besides, did we force them? Did we threaten them with a de at their necks? It''s a matter of their own choice. Can they me anyone for their own greed?"

    Lin Die said coldly. Is the cultivation world really a paradise? There are killings and treasure hunts, ck market trading, and malicious scheming. Anything you can think of has happened. If you are foolish, don''t me others.

    "The outside world is too scary, I want to go home."

    Lin Changsheng murmured. The outside world is too terrifying. There are traps everywhere.

    "Chao Xia, immediately send a message back home. Let my father give orders to exempt Anhua City from gate taxes as soon as possible. It would be best to find an excuse to make families and sects from all over send people to Anhua City, to create the impression that Anhua City has arge poption and good business."

    Lin Die immediately said. If we want to trick people, we need to be careful. Let the people ahead of us earn some money so that more people will be attracted to it.

    This is like fishing. If we don''t make a bait and let the fish eat a little, how can we catch the fish?

    When the second and third generations of the Lin family heard this, they were shocked as if they were meeting their Third Ancestor for the first time. They couldn''t believe that the decisive Third Ancestor could be so vicious. They mourned silently for three seconds for the independent cultivators.

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, the middle section

    Lin Die has been standing outside Lin Jiang''s cave for an hour. She has already sent dozens of Sound Passing Talismans. Lin Die cannot be certain if the person is at home, but she has a feeling that he is.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I don''t know if you are inside. If you don''t want toe out, I can understand. I havee today to thank Taoist Friend Lin."

    "This action has brought great benefit to the Lin family, but you will face great risks. Those independent cultivators who suffered losses will not easily let you go. So, if you are willing, you can return to your ancestral roots. No matter which member of the Lin family your rtives are, I will include you in the family records..."

    Lin Die''s voice echoed in Lin Jiang''s home. At this moment, Lin Die believed that Lin Jiang was a member of the Lin family who had been living outside.

    Because only people from the Lin family are willing to help the Lin family in such a daring way, this can also exin the logic of this matter, and such things have indeed happened before.

    Since Lin Batian, the Lin family has never had the concept of one man and one woman. From the second generation to the fourth generation, they all followed the same pattern, with numerous wives and concubines. This is to ensure the rapid increase in the number of cultivators in the Lin family. In the past two hundred years, there are now more than eight hundred members of the n, even though many n members have been killed in the Lin family''s repeated wars.

    Lin family members are like this at home and they are also promiscuous outside. Over the years, there have been many instances of illegitimate children from the Lin family seeking their roots at the Lin family.

    Lin Batian is epting of these people. As long as they are confirmed to be from the Lin family and have Spiritual Roots, they are allowed to stay in the n. Those without Spiritual Roots are sent to live elsewhere, as the Lin family has plenty ofnd.Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang in the cave was speechless. Lin Die actually took him for a lost illegitimate child of the Lin family. Well, he didn''t bother exining.

    "If you don''t want to acknowledge the Lin family, it''s fine. But because of this matter, I acknowledge you. I have a spiritual talisman here. It was crafted by my father and was originally meant to protect me. Once activated, it can unleash a full-power attack equivalent to the Nascent Soul stage. It is the most precious thing I have. I''m giving it to you. It can protect you if you''re in danger."

    Lin Die waited for a moment, but there was still no response from inside the cave. She knew that the person inside didn''t want toe out. She took out a spiritual talisman and threw it inside.

    This specially crafted spiritual talisman is extremely precious because it will deplete the cultivator''s cultivation base who made it. Lin Batian would need at least half a year to recover from making this spiritual talisman. It is not given to anyone who is not a close rtive or trusted person. It is either exchanged for valuable resources or kept by some Golden Core cultivators as a precious life-saving item.

    "I''m leaving. I will depart from Yunzhong City in two days. If you change your mind, you can find me in West City of Yunzhong City."

    In the end, Lin Die left. She did everything she needed to do and said everything she needed to say. Even if she didn''te back, she still fulfilled her obligations.

    As soon as Lin Die left, Lin Jiang appeared outside the cave and picked up a special charm called a spiritual talisman. As a Talisman Maker, he knew how valuable this talisman was. In fact, if you added up all of Lin Jiang''s possessions, he couldn''t afford to buy this rare spiritual talisman in Yunzhong City.

    "I didn''t want to have any more connections with the Lin family, but people are not like nts or trees. Who can be without emotions? I have spent eighty years living with the Lin family, and it has been a wonderful time for me."

    Lin Jiang let out a heavy sigh. ording to his principles, he should endure and not worry about worldly matters. This time, he made a big mistake by helping the Lin family deceive an independent cultivator from Yunzhong City.

    Lin Jiang also knew that this would not be good for him. Once Xie Youjia and the others suffer losses, they will surelye back to hold him ountable. But Lin Jiang couldn''t help it.

    He wasn''t just an inanimate object; he was a living, breathing person with emotions. When he was at the inn in West City, he instinctively considered the interests of the Lin family without any hesitation.

    When he weighed the pros and cons of deceiving Xie Youjia and the others again, emotions ultimately overcame reason, and he decided to take the risk and help the Lin family one more time.

    "Peoplee before immortals. I hope I won''t be a cold and heartless cultivator in the future."

    Lin Jiang shook his head andforted himself. He tried to convince himself that what he was doing was not wrong. Peoplee before immortals. He was first a member of the Lin family, and then a cultivator named Lin Jiang.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Boom"

    Six monthster, Xie Youjia appeared outside Lin Jiang''s cave and swung a sword towards the cave. The cave emitted a transparent protective shield, blocking Xie Youjia''s flying sword.

    "Snap"

    In the next moment, a flying sword flew out of the cave, heading straight for Xie Youjia. Xie Youjia''s face changed, and he summoned a shield. However, with just one strike, Lin Jiang shattered his shield into pieces, scattering fragments everywhere.

    "Thank you, taoist friend. Are you getting impatient to make a move against me?"

    Lin Jiang revealed himself, standing within the protective formation, and spoke coldly to Xie Youjia.

    "Mr. Lin, do you still have the audacity to say that you caused my demise?"

    "Aren''t you still standing here? Am I talking to a ghost?"

    "You..."

    Xie Youjia was so angry that he almost vomited blood. After hearing Lin''s nonsense, he gathered some good friends and borrowed some money. They went on a shopping spree in Yunzhong City and bought a batch of supplies. They nned to go to Anhua City to make a big profit.

    He arrived early. The first few days were indeed very good for business. Anhua City had been under the control of the Lin family for several years, but the strength of the merchants hadn''t recovered. When the cultivators from the surrounding areas heard that Anhua City had waived the entrance tax, they woulde and explore. If they found something to buy, they would buy a little bit.

    Initially, Xie Youjia made some money. However, he was too greedy. When he saw the situation in Anhua City, he immediately raised the prices, wanting to make more profits.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    But he didn''t expect that arge group of independent cultivators from Yunzhong City appeared within a few days. Each of them brought a lot of money and goods, just like him.

    At first, Xie Youjia wanted to unite with other independent cultivators and raise the prices together. But he soon realized that this was impossible.

    They traveled a long distance from Yunzhong City to Anhua City, facing great hardships and even the risk of being hunted by demons and thieves along the way. After entering Anhua City, they needed money for food, drinks, and amodation. But they had run out of money because it was all in their goods.

    So they had no choice but to lower the prices. Viciouspetition began, and the prices of goods in Anhua City kept falling. Some people held on stubbornly, while others cut their losses in time.

    Xie Youjia chose to hold on stubbornly. He wanted to endure until these independent cultivators left, so he could recover his investment. But he didn''t expect that there were so many foolish independent cultivators. They came one batch after another.

    He was not one of the people recruited by the Lin family toe to Anhua City. He had a house andnd in Anhua City and managed to hold on for four or five months, but he couldn''t hold on any longer and could only sell at a discounted price.

    After all the going back and forth, along with various expenses along the way, he lost nearly twenty thousand spirit stones and even offended all of his friends. How could he not be furious?

    Just when things were going from bad to worse, he returned to the Yunzhong Mountain Range only to find that his cave had been broken into and all the items inside were stolen. It was absolutely infuriating. Filled with anger, he went directly to confront Lin Jiang.

    "What do you mean by ming your own losses on me?"

    "Isn''t it you?"

    "Thank you, Taoist friend. One should always have a conscience. Did I force you to go to Anhua City? Besides, I have heard that there are many opportunities to make money in Anhua City. For example, Taoist friends Chen Shun and Chen Xing, they have earned tens of thousands of spirit stones. They think that Anhua City has many opportunities and have settled there permanently. I heard from other Taoist friends that the two brothers bought arge five-room mansion for only six thousand spirit stones, and they also bought a shop. They are living a happy life. Even when people advise them toe back, they refuse."

    Lin Jiang replied. Not all the people who went to Anhua City have suffered losses. Some have actually made profits. This is the case for the two brothers, Chen Shun and Chen Xing. They never came back and have settled in Anhua City.

    "I..."

    Xie Youjia was speechless because he also knew the two brothers, Chen Shun and Chen Xing. Indeed, what Lin Jiang said was true. The two brothers arrived in Anhua City a few days earlier than him and immediately started selling their goods. They sold as much as they could and even advised him to sell early. But at that time, Xie Youjia was blinded by greed and thought that the two brothers were too timid to travel all this way just to earn a few spirit stones. When he finally came to his senses, it was toote to regret.

    "No more words?"

    "I don''t care, anyway it''s your fault. If you don''tpensate me with spirit stones, you won''t have a good day."

    Xie Youjia couldn''t swallow it all at once. Since reason couldn''t hold up, he would use his flying sword to speak.

    "Seems like you want to y dirty. Bring it on then."

    "I''m curious to see what you''re capable of."

    Xie Youjia''s face became ferocious. This time he was at a huge loss. If he didn''t recover from Lin Jiang, his days would be miserable. Since that''s the case, he would be ruthless and kill the Lin family, taking over their dwelling.

    "You dare to have murderous intent?"

    Lin Jiang''s face turned cold. Xie Youjia was not the only one causing trouble for him. Most of them would just let it go after a brief confrontation, epting their own bad luck. Xie Youjia was the first to dare have murderous intent towards him.

    Once the intention to kill arises, the nature changes. Lin Jiang couldn''t let him go either.

    "Go"

    Xie Youjia pped the storage bag, and more than ten formation discs flew out, scattering around. Xie Youjia was a skilled Formation Master and nned to use his formations against the enemy. Confidently, he believed that once Lin Jiang fell into his killing formation, he would surely win.

    "The Formation Master dares to use formations during the battle."

    Lin Jiang shook his head inwardly. The Formation Master was very powerful, but it depended on the situation. If the Formation Master had enough time to set up his formations, dealing with three or five enemies of the same level would be as easy as ying.

    However, in this sudden and intense fight, it was toote to set up formations on the spot.

    Lin Jiang first scattered a stack of spiritual talismans, not aimed at Xie Youjia, but at his formation discs, intending to disrupt his formations. Flying swords followed closely after, aiming straight for Xie Youjia''s throat.

    Xie Youjia thought back to the scene where Lin Jiang shattered his protective shield with a single blow, feeling a tightness in his heart. He dared not take the blow head-on and immediately used his body movement technique to evade. However, the next second, he felt a sharp pain in his temple and his vision went ck, losing consciousness.

    "Fighting, but using sneaky tactics is more powerful."

    Lin Jiang retrieved the flying needles in his hand, using the flying swords and spiritual talismans as cover to disturb the opponent''s vision and attention, and thenunching sneak attacks with the needles. It proved to be effective time and time again.

 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86

    "In the martial world, one has no control over their own destiny. Thank you, Taoist friend. Come and spar with me at Spring Coming Tower in your next life, since I won''t have another life."

    Outside the cave, Lin Jiang dealt with Xie Youjia. For a brief moment, Lin Jiang felt a little guilty, but he quickly recovered. The concept of Blue Star had be weaker over the decades, and he had be assimted into this world.

    There is no way around it. If we were to maintain the legal concept of peaceful times, we would have died long ago. The cultivation world simply cannot survive.

    Back at home, Lin Jiang opened Xie Youjia''s storage bag. Xie Youjia had lost tens of thousands of spirit stones, and his fortune had shrunk to less than thirty thousand. Besides that, there were some misceneous items like flying swords, formation discs, and alchemy materials.

    Lin Jiang picked out the jade scrolls from inside and took a look. He gave up on any cultivation manuals, as most were of low quality, either yellow grade or lower-level profound grade. He had seen some middle-level profound grade ones before.

    Lin Jiang had two profound grade cultivation manuals from fuliu-jian and Shen Bo, but their characteristics were too obvious - all of them were suitable for those with water elemental spiritual roots. He didn''t want to learn them, so they were just sitting there.

    "I already have hundreds of secret cultivation techniques and skills in my hands. I could set up a small library."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Since he started his journey, he had killed many people and obtained numerous storage bags. Almost every storage bag contained some jade scrolls, and together with the ones he had bought, he had umted seven to eight hundred. They filled up an entire room, with several cabs full.

    The Complete Guide to Basic FormationsOne Hundred Killing Formations

    Thirty-Six Variations of Trapping Formations

    Two dayster, Lin Jiang held the jade slip he found in Xie Youjia''s storage bag and read it with great interest. Basic formations, like Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, and beginner knowledge like Spiritual Farmer puppet technique, are not difficult because they have been studied by countless people and their experiences are widely known.

    However, any craft is easy to learn but difficult to master. If you want to make a living out of it, you have to put in a lot of effort, and it is closely rted to talent.

    After obtaining Sun Man''s storage bag, Lin Jiang became interested in pill refining. Especially since Sun Man hadplete records on pill refining, it was perfect for beginners. Lin Jiang also wondered if he could learn the craft of pill refining and try his hand at multiple skills.

    But after seriously studying for half a month, Lin Jiang gave uppletely because it was too difficult.

    To give a simple example, a regr non-Alchemist cultivator in the cultivation world only needs to recognize about a thousandmonly used spiritual medicines to meet basic needs. And if it''s finished pills, it''s even simpler, just recognizing a hundred kinds would be enough.

    But for an Alchemist, even the most basic knowledge of different medicines requires memorizing over thirty thousand types, not just their names, but also their properties, dosages, and many other factors. They need to remember the changes that ur in spiritual medicines in different environments and be able to recall them effortlessly.

    Seeing this, Lin Jiang gave up. He had to admit that alchemy is aplex science that cannot be mastered in a few days. Simrly, his talisman technique in painting is also the same. If someone can learn it just by looking at talisman patterns for a few days, then either that person is a genius or just bragging.

    "Having many skills doesn''t mean you''re superior."

    "Don''t challenge someone''s expertise with your interests."

    "Mastering one skill is better than being average in ten."

    Lin Jiang repeatedly reminded himself. This was also a realization in his life. He wasn''t a genius. If he were, it would have shown during his childhood. He couldn''t even be considered talented; just an ordinary person.

    His advantage was time. Even in painting talismans, he achieved his skills by investing more time than others, rather than learning it instantly.

    So, when Lin Jiang looked at the jade scroll about formations, it wasn''t because he wanted to be an amazing Formation Master. He just wanted to understand formations better so that he wouldn''t be deceived by dishonest traders when buying them in the future.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Emerging from the Yuntuo River, Lin Jiang grumbled because someone had taken some of the spiritual medicines he left behind, causing him to lose money.

    In the past, Lin Jiang took in Liu Dong and Liu Siyu and was rewarded. Liu Hui gave him a map of the distribution of some magical herbs at the bottom of the Yuntuo River, not a real treasure map.

    Later, Lin Jiang followed the map and found all these magical herbs, but many of them were still young and not valuable yet, so he kept them. He woulde back every five years to check on them and take away the mature ones.

    But each time he came, there would be fewer herbs, and the people who harvested them were very wicked. They didn''t even spare the young nts. If it weren''t for Liu Dongpensating him, he would have suffered a big loss that time.

    "I''m so angry, I''m going to Spring Coming Tower to ask the little fairy to guide me."

    Lin Jiang said angrily in the end, there were very few magical herbs left at the bottom of the river, and he didn''t n toe anymore. He would leave them for other deserving people.

    In fact, Lin Jiang had a lot of magical herbs. All of them were inherited from Sun Man. He had hundreds of acres of ordinary second-tier magical herbs, and there was even a fourth-tier magical herb in the garden behind the house. However, the fourth-tier magical herb was not mature yet, and Lin Jiang was still investing in it. It was estimated that it would take at least a hundred years.

    As a matter of fact, Lin Jiang had harvested a batch of the second-tier Spiritual Herb Garden and had achieved a good cultivation cycle. New seeds had fallen and taken root.

    It was thanks to this ie that Lin Jiang was able to focus on cultivation in these years and reduce the time spent drawing symbols. Otherwise, half of his day would be spent on drawing symbols to make money, and there wouldn''t be time for cultivation.

    Actually, this is also the dilemma of most lower-ss independent cultivators. They have to spend a lot of time working to earn money, but the money they earn is only enough for rent and basic needs. They are unable to invest enough resources into their cultivation, so their progress is slow. And because their cultivation is not high, they don''t earn much money and have to spend more time to make money. It''s a vicious cycle, and they never have a breakthrough in their lifetime.

    So, for the low-level cultivators, the only chance to ovee this difficult situation is to gather together, form a sect or family power, and then sacrifice some of their cultivation to concentrate resources on those with better talent andprehension. Once this group bes stronger, they can protect these people and use violence to acquire more resources, creating a positive cycle.

    Unfortunately, this path is not suitable for Lin Jiang, and that''s one of the reasons why he left the Lin family. Even if his talent is poor, as the second generation of the Lin family, his treatment would not be so bad.

    When Lin Jiang arrived at Spring Coming Tower, he encountered some familiar faces. In fact, the circle was small. Although there were many cultivators in the Building Foundation Period in Yunzhong City,pared to independent cultivators, there were much fewer. Lin Wu had used his identity for many years, so he had at least had a few interactions with most of the independent cultivators in the Building Foundation Period, even if they weren''t familiar.

    The only benefit is that Lin Jiang doesn''t have to change his identity frequently. With a lifespan of two hundred years in the Building Foundation Period, he can use this identity for more than a hundred years.

    The incident in Anhua City brought some negative impact on Lin Jiang''s reputation. Some people think Lin Jiang is malicious and colluded with Anhua City to harm them, so they keep their distance from Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang readily epts this. He doesn''t need those useless social interactions, only maintaining basic social connections is enough for him.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Master, I''m your little Yuanyuan, do you remember me?"

    "Master, it''s me, Amei. We were together a few days ago..."

    "Master..."

    Lin Jiang has been a loyal customer of the Spring Coming Tower for a long time. As soon as he enters, a bunch of birds and swallowse to him. And then, about ny percent of the people have had a heart-to-heart talk with Lin Jiang, and now they alle rushing in. Lin Jiang is starting to feel overwhelmed. He is a person with thin skin.

    "Um, what''s going on here?"

    Lin Jiang quickly pulled over the mother of many fairies and asked.

    "Oh, well, it''s all because of Anhua City..."

    The elegant old madamined to Lin Jiang. Anhua City is being too kind, not scamming poor people. This time, the ones being scammed are either at the mid orte stage of Qi Refining, or at the Building Foundation Period.

    The early to middle stage of Qi Refining is too poor and weak. They want to go to Anhua City to make some money, but they can''t, they don''t have the capital. And those in the Golden Core Period don''t care about this small ie.

    Coincidentally, those in thete stage of Qi Refining and the Building Foundation Period are the middle ss in Yunzhong City. They are also thergest customer base for industries like the Spring Coming Tower, after all, the poor can''t afford it and the rich don''t need it. Unintentionally, the entire industry in Yunzhong City has been severely affected.

    "Am I that awesome?"

    Lin Jiang was dumbfounded. Did his actions have such a big impact?

    "Master, my daughters have had a hard time. How about you call a few more daughters today to practice the art of Dao with you?"

    After the madam finishedining, she sadly said to Lin Jiang, "No business means my daughters are also having a tough time."

    "Ahem, I suddenly remembered that I have something to do today. I have to leave. Please use this spirit stone to treat the little fairies to tea."

    Lin Jiang left behind two spirit stones and quickly ran away. He couldn''t handle the weight of the stones or his own waist.

    Leaving the Spring Coming Tower, Lin Jiang turned and headed to Baihua Tower. Since he didn''t know many people there, Lin Jiang felt more rxed. He could freely have heart-to-heart conversations with the little fairies. Normally, Lin Jiang wouldn''t have the same conversation with a fairy twice to protect himself, so he wouldn''t return to the Spring Coming Tower for a long time unless all the little fairies there were reced.

    "Man, you are really heartless."

    Lin Jiang self-mockingly said, "Everyone scolds scumbags, but everyone wants to be one."

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87

    Middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range

    Lin Jiang was using magic to water the Spiritual Herb Garden. Lin Jiang was quite skilled as a Spiritual Farmer, having been a dedicated apprentice in the past. He had more than enough care and nurturing for the mature Spiritual Herb Garden, although it might be challenging to build one from scratch.

    "Chirp chirp..."

    Before finishing the task, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao sent a warning sound to Lin Jiang. Hurriedly, Lin Jiang stopped and put Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao into the Spirit Beast Bag.

    Over the years, Lin Jiang''s storage bag had be much more abundant. He had also invested a lot in Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Both of them had eaten aplete third-stage Demon Core, although they had not yet made a breakthrough.

    Lin Jiang had researched and found that for creatures like Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, breaking through to the third stage was a life-changing transformation. It required a significant investment, far beyond Lin Jiang''s capabilities. Therefore, Lin Jiang decided to take more time and gradually nurture them over the next hundred or so years.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    When Lin Jiang wasn''t going out, he would usually let Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao out. His cave now covered nearly a thousand acres, which was enough for them to y around. Otherwise, if they were kept closed for too long, they would be moody.

    "Stay, Taoist friend."Lin Jiang stood inside the perimeter formation and saw two independent cultivators at the Building foundation level sizing up his cave. He immediately spoke up.

    In the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, conditions were harsh. If there was no activity for a long time, other independent cultivators might assume the owner was dead or away for a long period. In that case, the cave could easily be looted or upied.

    "Master, someone''s here."

    The young cultivator at the Building Foundation stage spoke to the elderly Building Foundation cultivator.

    "Look and then decide."

    The old man named Building foundation nodded and then gestured to Lin Jiang, saying, "Taoist friend, I didn''t mean to offend. Please forgive me, taoist friend."

    "Ignorance is not a crime. Taoist friend, you may leave now."

    "Taoist friend, my disciple and I havee from afar and have nowhere to stay. I wonder if taoist friend could amodate the two of us. We will be eternally grateful and remember the great kindness of taoist friend."

    "Go south, Yunzhong City is not far away. There are plenty of inns there."

    "Taoist friend, my disciple and Ie from a small ce and have nothing valuable..."

    "No spirit stones, but there must be flying swords and storage bags. Let''s sell them."

    Lin Jiang''s tone became even colder, and he had already determined that these two people had ill intentions. He wanted to confirm if he was being taken for a fool.

    The people on Yunzhong Mountain Range rarely take in strangers. They don''t allow kindness and hospitality from cultivators. Whoever has such thoughts won''t live long.

    "Taoist friend seems heartless. All independent cultivators in the world are like one big family. Could Taoist friend bear to see us, an old person and a young person, suffer from wind and sun?"

    "Yes, bear it. Have you finished speaking? You can leave now."

    "How dare you speak to my teacher like that! Come out, we''ll fight to the death."

    The young person at the Building Foundation stage heard Lin Jiang''s rude words and immediately started cursing at him, preparing to duel with Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang looked at him with a look of disbelief, finding it ridiculous. It''s a low-end tactic to provoke him like this. Lin Jiang alone against the two of them, stepping out of the formation to fight him one-on-one, who would do that if not a fool?

    "Don''t me Taoist friend. I spoiled this disciple of mine, and he doesn''t know his ce..."

    "Don''t waste your breath, in the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, cultivators who have lived for more than three years are not fools. If they have their eye on my home, they shoulde and fight me if they have the ability."

    Lin Jiang was getting impatient and wondered what these two guys were thinking. Can they really deceive people with such a low-level act of ying a trick? Are there really so many fools in this world?

    "Excuse me, dear taoist friend, we''ll meet againter."

    The elderly building foundation finally stopped pretending and smiled at Lin Jiang before turning around and leaving.

    "Master, why don''t we take action? That person is only in the initial stage of building foundation, I can defeat him alone."

    "The Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation at the third level, you won''t be able to break it even if you fight for a month. It''s a tough opponent."

    "But they say that this area belongs to the Lin family, and this Mr. Lin is the richest. His cave used to belong to an alchemist and it has many spiritual medicines."

    The young building foundation spoke, they were not neers to the Yunzhong Mountain Range, they had been here for several days. During these few days, they had been searching for a suitable cave.

    However, most of the caves had poor spiritual veins and didn''t meet their expectations. Through special means, they found out that there was a cave nearby with high-quality spiritual veins and the former owner had left behind many valuable spiritual medicines. That''s why they decided to give it a try.

    "Silly child, those people are using us as weapons, with him being a beginner in building foundations, how can he defend this cave?"

    The elderly Building foundation replied, saying that in the rivers andkes, he would not underestimate anyone. If someone doesn''t take action against the treasure in these mountains, it means they can protect it.

    "Alright, Master always has good reasons. So where do we go now?"

    "We have arrived."

    The elderly Building foundation looked at the mist in front of him and said that the mist was produced by an array, which indicates that someone lives here.

    "Master, are we still acting?"

    "No more acting. Tired. Let''s take action."

    "Okay."

    The young Building foundation was overjoyed upon hearing this and without hesitation, directly cast a spell to attack.

    "How dare you, who is attacking my residence?"

    Soon, a loud shout came from within the white fog, but when he saw two construction workers outside the door, he immediately closed his mouth.

    "Break it for me."

    The older construction workers became even more fierce and stopped wasting words, starting to attack.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend Taoist Lin, be careful. If you get attacked, immediately send me a Distress Talisman, and I wille to assist."

    "Friend Taoist Lin, I have brought the information you wanted. Take a good look."

    "I have heard about the people who came this time. They areбдбдбдбд"

    Another half month passed, and Lin Jiang took off the Distress Talismans that were spiraling around the outeryer of his cave, reading the messages. These Distress Talismans were sent by independent cultivators in the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, and there were even many that he didn''t recognize, marking his first encounter with them.

    The reason these people were so enthusiastic was not that Lin Jiang was cute and popr, but because powerful individuals had arrived in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, the same ones he had encountered half a month ago, a pair of master and disciple independent cultivators.

    These two master and disciple cultivators are extremely fierce. They arrived at the Yunzhong Mountain Range less than a month ago and have already hunted down and killed five independent cultivators at the Building Foundation Period. They looted all the treasures in their cave and now they live not far from Lin Jiang. A few months ago, that ce was still Xie Youjia''s cave, but after Xie Youjia was killed by Lin Jiang, it was upied by someone else, and then taken over by these two master and disciple cultivators.

    Based on information provided by other independent cultivators, the older one at the Building Foundation Period is called Shao Xiong, and the younger one is called Shao Jie. Shao Jie is an orphan adopted by Shao Xiong and is both his disciple and son.

    Shao Xiong used to roam the northern part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, constantly fighting against demonic beasts. It is said that he was notorious in the north and no one knows how many independent cultivators died by his hands.

    Shao Jie is also fierce and formidable. He has been following Shao Xiong since the early stage of Qi Refining, killing his way through the Wilderness. Hisbat power is extremely strong.

    This time, the Shao family master and disciple came to the southern part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range for the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration that will take ce in thirty years. It is certain that the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill will appear during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, and they are preparing for Foundation Establishment.

    The Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill can always be sold at sky-high prices. ording to the auction prices of multiple Five Elements Golden Fruit Pills, the average price is around one million spirit stones, and asionally, it may go up to one million five hundred thousand. The auctioneers often make additional demands, such as substituting with some genius treasures, instead of just spirit stones.

    This price has already discouraged ny percent of the Building Foundation Period independent cultivators, and only the particrly strong ones have the financial ability topete with those sects and ns.

    Last time during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, Lin Jiang was still weak and hiding in Yunzhong City. However, he still heard about the chaos here. Almost after every big celebration, the independent cultivators at the Building Foundation Period in the Yunzhong Mountain Range changed, which is also why the independent cultivators in the Yunzhong Mountain Range mostly stay at the early and middle stages. They were all killed and became resources for others to advance.

    "More and more powerful and ruthless people wille here in the future, it''s really dangerous. But I can''t bear to leave this cave."

    Lin Jiang was very conflicted. The Shao''s master and disciple had just arrived. They were still 30 years away from the Centennial Celebration. As time passed, more and more fierce people woulde, and Lin Jiang would surely be targeted.

    But the problem was, Lin Jiang didn''t want to leave this cave. Just think about it, he had already invested tens of thousands of spirit stones into those twelve fourth-level spiritual herbs after taking over. If he abandoned them, he would suffer a big loss.

    "I want money, not my life. I don''t mind sacrificing a few thousand years of lifespan."

    After much consideration, Lin Jiang finally decided not to run away. He was going to fight them. He signed a contract for more than 160 years. After deducting the lifespan consumed by the Explosive Element Technique, he still had about 50,000 years left. It was more than enough.

    After making up his mind, Lin Jiang took out the Sound Passing Talisman and wrote a reply to the independent cultivators. These people wanted Lin Jiang to keep an eye on the Shao''s master and disciple, and inform them if anything happened. As for their promise to help in the fight, Lin Jiang didn''t believe it and didn''t count on it.

    Lin Jiang just hoped to have a mutual exchange with them, keeping an eye on the Shao''s master and disciple. Now he was forced to stay at home and couldn''t go out. If he waited for the Shao''s master and disciple to leave, he could go to Yunzhong City and gather some supplies.

    After sending the Sound Passing Talisman, Lin Jiang checked the formation again and prepared enough spirit stones for it. The spiritual energy in this cave was not enough to fully power the formation unless he gave up all the spiritual herbs and drew out all the spiritual energy flowing into the Spiritual Herb Garden. But in that case, all the spiritual herbs would be destroyed, so he had to use spirit stones as the energy source.

    After dealing with everything, Lin Jiang started drawing talismans again. Spiritual talismans were one of the best ways to improve strength in the short term. He definitely couldn''t do without them in a real fight.

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, middle section.

    "Master, our neighbor''s Sound Passing Talisman is flying around, it''s so lively!"

    "If you''re really that bored, why not dig up the ground outside the door?"

    Shao Xiong looked at Shao Jie and shook his head. This kid still has a lot to learn. We''re still in the mountains, and he''s already so restless. If he goes to Yunzhong City, who knows what trouble he''ll cause?

    "Master, I''m just curious. I''ve never interacted with so many people before. Master, what do you think they will do to us? Will they join forces to attack us, all the Building foundation independent cultivators in Yunzhong Mountain Range?"

    "They won''t."

    "Why not? In the wilderness, as long as the beast has a leader, like the Wolf King, it''s enough."

    "Take a guess, why is there no golden core independent cultivator in Yunzhong Mountain Range, or if there are, they have to hide?"

    "I don''t know. Why, Master?""Because it''s not allowed to have such amazing people here."

    Shao Xiong said. There are so many independent cultivators near Yunzhong City, how can there not be a few heroic figures? But even if they are heroes, once they try to gain control over the middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range and unify this ce, they will be in deep trouble. Some people won''t allow them to do so.

    "The two major sects are so dominant. Master, when will we be that dominant?"

    Shao Jie said, Shao Xiong had told him a lot about the rules of Yunzhong City, so he immediately guessed that it was something controlled by the two major sects.

    "Stop thinking like that, Master. I''m not that powerful yet. The two major sects have more talents than you can imagine. The most powerful cultivators are always within the sects."

    Shao Xiong shook his head. He had good talent andprehension, but he knew very well that in the eyes of the sects, he was not considered anything special. No matter how talented you are, there will always be someone more talented. And most of the geniuses that can be seen in the city have already been recruited by the sects.

    "Master, why are you being so modest? Didn''t you say that we are the wolves, true wild wolves? Ordinary independent cultivators are at most domestic dogs, and sect disciples are just sheep. In a one-on-one fight, I can kill three domestic dogs and ten sheep. I''ve done it before."

    "Did you really believe the lies I told you when we were kids?"

    Shao Xiong was shocked. Why would Shao Jie still believe that at this moment? Wasn''t it just something he used to yfully tease him when they were kids?

    "But that''s the truth."

    Shao Jie said, "In the north of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, I have encountered many disciples from martial arts sects and ordinary cultivators. Their cultivation seems decent, but they are actually weak. It seems like they don''t know how to kill. With the same level of cultivation, I can easily kill them."

    "Shao Jie, I warn you not to cause trouble. It is true that ordinary disciples from martial arts sects and ordinary cultivators are weak, but there are also experts among them. I can''t afford to provoke them. I am only in theter stage of building foundations, you know?"

    Shao Xiong said sternly, "When I said this, I had reasons to believe it. People like us grew up in a world of killing, constantly being attacked by more enemies. Winning against stronger opponents ismon. Cultivators who survive in such an environment are like fierce wolves."

    As for ordinary cultivators, they may be farmers or businessmen who asionally get into fights and kill people. Butpared to them, killing demonic beasts and people is as simple as drinking water. That''s why they can be called domestic dogs.

    As for ordinary disciples from martial arts sects, they are even weaker. The protection from the sect has made them be soft and weak like sheep. Even some disciples who have reached the Building Foundation Period have never killed anyone. These cultivators only have cultivation skills but have no idea how to use them.

    But these are all ordinary situations. Even ordinary cultivators can have formidable individuals, not to mention martial arts sects. They don''t y fair with you at all. You may be in the Building Foundation Period, but they may be in the Golden Core Period or even have Nascent Soul or Soul Changing cultivation levels, although I''ve never seen someone with Soul Changing cultivation.

    Now Shao Xiong is very worried that Shao Jie, who doesn''t know his ce, will offend the major sect. He really doesn''t know how dangerous that is.

    "Master, I''m not a fool. I know I can''t afford to offend the two major sects. Don''t worry, I won''t do anything stupid."

    "Knowing is good, our main goal in returning to Yunzhong City is to gather money. Once we have enough money, we will obtain the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill. And when I break through to the golden core stage, we will establish our own sect."

    Shao Xiong said. As an independent cultivator for many years, he knew very well the hardships that independent cultivators faced. Once one bes truly powerful, establishing a sect is necessary. Being a sect''s patriarch is so enjoyable. Disciples would be responsible for umting wealth, while he could focus on cultivation alone. No need to roam around aimlessly.

    "Hehe, Master, we have been in Yunzhong Mountain Range for a long time, but we haven''t visited Yunzhong City yet. Can you take me there for a stroll?"

    "Alright, I will get you some True Spirit Pills. We still have many battles ahead, and your cultivation level is a bit weak."

    Shao Xiong nodded. Now, he saw all the independent cultivators in Yunzhong Mountain Range as prey for building his foundation stage. He would inevitably face attacks from them and would need his disciple''s help when that time came.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "There is a saying among the independent cultivators in the Northern sects that our Southern sect cultivators are like dogs, while their sect disciples are like sheep. Only they themselves are like wolves. Wolves eat both sheep and dogs..."

    "How ridiculous! How dare that old fool show such disrespect towards us!"

    "Are wolves really powerful beasts? Why don''t they call themselves dragons instead?"

    "Because there is a Wolf King in the north, at theter stage of the fourth rank, equivalent to theter stage of Nascent Soul, there are even more powerful monsters deeper in, which we cultivators have not had much contact with. That Wolf King is already very fierce. The Zhonghang Sect once sent three Nascent Soul Ancestors to hunt it, but they were unable to kill it."

    In the Yunzhong Mountain Range, as soon as Shao Xiong and his disciples entered, more than ten independent cultivators at the early stage of Building Foundation immediately gathered together. They are all at the weakest level during the Building Foundation period, and they are all extremely afraid. They are afraid that Shao Xiong wille looking for them, so they gathered together to discuss.

    "Brother Fan, out of these ten people, only you have been to the north. Can you tell us about what happened there?"

    Lin Jiang said to the organizer, a person named Fan Tong who is at the early stage of Building Foundation cultivation. He had once spent three years roaming the northern part of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, making him the only independent cultivator among them who had been there.

    The situation in the north is not very good. The demon n and us cultivators have been in a constant struggle. I went there over ten years ago, and at that time, there were less than twenty strongholds established by cultivators left. The only strongholds that remained strong were the two major sects'' strongholds, which had turned into small cities with around ten thousand people.

    In that area, the mostmon thing for cultivators is to fight, fight against monsters, fight against harsh environments, fight against other cultivators. Except for the strongholds, there are no rules anywhere else. Even the disciples of the two major sects often end up injured or killed.

    It can be said that any cultivator who can survive for ten years without dying in the north, even in the Qi Refining Period, should not be underestimated. They are truly tough individuals, ruthless towards enemies and even towards themselves...

    "Are their individualbat abilities strong? How strong are they?"

    "It''s hard to say. But one thing is that under equal cultivation levels, their spiritual power is much more condensed than ours. They frequently engage in battles, quickly releasing their spiritual power, and have strong attack power. Moreover, their meridians are tough. What we call our special moves and trump cards are just regr moves for them. So in our perspective, their attack power is much stronger."

    "Another thing is their ferocity. Some of them may seem gentle and refined in normal times, but once they see blood, they immediately be extremely fierce. After being injured, they go mad and their fighting power soars. When fighting against them, remember not to let them get close. It''s best to keep them at a distance."

    Fan Tong recalled the past when he had just started building his foundation. He was full of ambition and thought that others were not much different. He went to explore the wilderness, but he was pped in the face by reality. He couldn''t survive there at all. For the next three years, he spent most of his time in the stronghold, unlike the others who dared to venture deep into the wilderness.

    "Does this Shao Xiong and his disciple have any impressive achievements?"

    "Yes, during Shao Xiong''s mid-stage of building foundation, he killed opponents who were in thete stage. Moreover, his opponents were also fierce individuals who had been fighting in the wilderness for many years. His disciple is even more abnormal. He grew up in the wilderness since he was young, eating the flesh of beasts like a wild animal."

    "These pieces of information are too vague. Can''t you provide more details?"

    "No, who would dare to reveal their details in the wilderness? Do they want to die slowly?"

    Fan Tong shook his head, the Wilderness is awless ce, if people found out the details, they would definitely be hunted down.

    "Now it''s about how to deal with them. The number of independent cultivators in the Building Foundation stage in the Yunzhong Mountain Range usually ranges from fifty to one hundred. We don''t need many, just twenty people can easily kill the two of them."

    Lin Jiang sighed and said, after hearing Fan Tong say so much, he didn''t actually think Shao Xiong and the others were powerful. The real exceptional geniuses are the ones who can kill across different realms, like killing someone in theter stage of Building Foundation while being in the early stage of Golden Core. But obviously, Shao Xiong doesn''t have that ability yet.

    He heard more about Shao Xiong''s toughness and survival in harsh conditions, but these things are not necessarily impressive; they don''t prove that he is invincible.

    When the crowd heard what Lin Jiang said, they fell silent, nobody spoke. Maybe twenty people could kill Shao Xiong and his disciples, but there would definitely be casualties. Who would die? Nobody wanted to die themselves.

    This is the characteristic of independent cultivators. Freedom is their advantage, but fighting alone is their disadvantage. Nobody wants to expose their back to others.

    "We should find a way to contact the senior cultivators in theter stages of Building Foundation. We, these people, to put it harshly, are all poor. How much spirit stones can we get if we were killed? Theter stages of Building Foundation are where the wealthy ones are."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Fan Tong said. In the early stages of Building Foundation, we don''t have much money. Most of the money we make is invested in cultivation. Those senior cultivators in theter stages, firstly, they live longer and have more means of making money. Secondly, they are also preparing for Core Formation and have saved up a lot of spirit stones.

    Lin Jiang smiled and remained silent at Fan Tong''s words. He was not poor. The total wealth of these peoplebined couldn''t match his. Just the spiritual talisman alone was worth several times their worth.

    Lin Jiang also realized that it was impossible to rely on these people to unite. Everyone was ustomed to being scattered, like a loose sand. To bring them together, there needed to be someone with very high prestige. But currently, nobody had that kind of prestige.

    Lin Jiang had a spiritual talisman as a trump card and wasn''t afraid of Shao Xiong and his disciples. He just didn''t want to reveal his strength and waste his trump card. So he just waited and watched. If Shao Xiong and his disciples really provoke him without using their brains, then there would be no choice but to take them out.

 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, middle section.

    Fan Tong looked at Shao Xiong and his disciple in front of him, feeling scared. Have these two killing gods finally targeted him?

    Where are the reinforcements? What happened to the promised alliance and support?

    He had already used more than ten Sound Passing Talismans, why hasn''t he received any replies? This is so frustrating and unfair.

    "Dear Taoist friend Fan, have you made up your mind?"

    Shao Xiong asked again, while his disciple Shao Jie threw down the corpse in his hand and stared at him with a fierce expression, ready to attack.

    "Don''t do anything, I''ll give it."

    Fan Tong roared in humiliation. This time, Shao Xiong came to collect money first and then use force. He demanded ten thousand spirit stones from Fan Tong to save his life, while Shao Jie carried a corpse to intimidate him. The corpse was renowned in the Yunzhong Mountain Range for its powerfulbat abilities during the mid-stage of Building Foundation cultivation.

    Fan Tong originally wanted to resist a bit, as they had agreed to support each other and form an alliance. But since no reinforcements arrived, he had no choice but to surrender. After all, his family''s formation was not advanced, just amon second level formation. It would certainly not be able to withstand the fierce attacks of Shao Xiong and his disciple."That''s right, when ites to choosing between a life and ten thousand spirit stones, everyone knows what to choose."

    "If you''ve got the ability, go find someone in the Late Building Foundation Stage. How dare you bully me, someone in the Early Building Foundation Stage?"

    "If you don''t have enough money, then I''ll go find someone in the Late Building Foundation Stage. Now, let me ask you a question, who has the most money?"

    Shao Xiong didn''t pay much attention and decided to extort some money from someone in the Mid Building Foundation Stage first. He figured that would be enough. As for someone in the Late Building Foundation Stage, he would deal with itter.

    "Lin Wu, he''s the richest."

    Fan Tong didn''t hesitate and blurted out, "This guy took over Alchemy Sun Man''s cave, with hundreds of acres of spiritual herbs. We''re so envious, if it wasn''t for Lin Wu killing Hu Buwei and scaring us off, someone would have taken action a long time ago."

    "Interesting, let''s go, little Jie."

    Shao Xiong nodded and took the spirit stones before leaving. He prided himself on being a trustworthy person. If someone paid him, they were safe from harm.

    Two hourster, Shao Xiong knocked on the gates of another cave in the Building Foundation Period and forced him to hand over ten thousand spirit stones for his life.

    "I have a question for you, who is the richest?"

    "It''s Lin Wu, he is a Talisman Maker, and he took over the underground cave that the Alchemist had been running for years."

    "Interesting, let''s go, little Jie."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Shao Xiong nodded, said no more, and went to the next house.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend Taoist Lin, how about we make a deal? I will buy a life for 10,000 spirit stones, what do you think?"

    "It seems that Taoist Friend Shao''s life is worth more than just 10,000 spirit stones, right?"

    Lin Jiang pretended to be clueless while Shao Xiong already knew about his scheme of extorting independent cultivators in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Lin Jiang knew that Shao Xiong would eventuallye knocking on his door. He specifically targeted independent cultivators in the early to middle stages of building their foundation.

    "Looks like Taoist Friend Lin is quite good at pretending to be clueless. Well then, the price goes up, 50,000 spirit stones."

    "No money."

    "Is that so, but out of the twenty-seven Taoist friends, eighteen of them said you are the richest."

    "What''s that?"

    Now it was Lin Jiang''s turn to be confused. Who is this grandson who says he is the richest? Does he really have money? How does he not know?

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you won''t pass today without paying money. Either lose your money or lose your life, you choose one."

    Shao Xiong said coldly, the extortion didn''t work as well as he had expected. Out of the twenty-seven Building Foundation stage cultivators he approached, only fifteen were willing to pay. The remaining twelve had all mastered the Third Order Array Formation and were not afraid of him at all.

    The Third Order Array Formation theoretically can withstand attacks from the Golden Core stage cultivators. Although due to the spiritual veins, it couldn''t exert a hundred percent of its effect, it would still be difficult for him to break through it for a while. Faced with those who would rather die than give money, he could only give up and quickly move on to the next one, because if he didn''t, those people would run away.

    Even so, he only managed to visit twenty-seven households. The rest had all fled to Yunzhong City. Ten thousand spirit stones were enough to pay rent for two years in Yunzhong City. They wouldn''t give money for nothing.

    "I don''t have money, and I won''t give my life either. You figure it out."

    "Well, there''s no other way. I''ll have to target you, they say you''re the richest. Your house is worth my effort to attack."

    Shao Xiong said. ckmailing is something that must be done. It will definitely be difficult to seed next time. So he had to really attack a cave.

    That''s why he was asking everywhere about who was the richest person. Breaking through a well-defended cave takes a lot of effort, so naturally he had to choose the one with the best value for money.

    "It''s up to you, fight if you want to. I''ve exchanged all my spirit stones for True Spirit Pills, you see, the pill bottles are here. I have the third-level Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation, you won''t be able to break it in a short time. I''ll slowly consume my pills. Oh, by the way, I''ve deactivated the formation in my Spiritual Herb Garden. The spiritual energy is now concentrated in the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation. Once you break it, I''ll have finished all my medicines and the herbs will have withered away. You''ll be working for nothing."

    Lin Jiang disyed his pill bottles, there were hundreds of them, of course, ny percent were empty. He just wanted to tell the other person that he had no money, he was a poor person, not worth robbing.

    Shao Xiong''s face immediately turned ck, while Shao Jie jumped up and shouted, "Master, this guy is being unfair, kill him!"

    "Take action."

    "Okay."

    Shao Xiong also felt the need to strike Lin Jiang, otherwise, everyone would imitate each other. How could he continue with ckmailing? Did he really have to kill them one by one? He''s not that stupid.

    "Boom, boom."

    Shao Jie was the first tounch an attack. Lin Jiang''s cave had a simple second-level formation at its periphery, which was easily broken in just a few moves. Lin Jiang also retreated back inside.

    Inside was a third-level Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation. Shao Jie made several attempts to break the formation, but it remained unaffected. Shao Xiong also joined in on the attack.

    Lin Jiang watched as they exchanged dozens of blows, but the formation remained unharmed. He felt relieved and thanked his buddy Sun Man. The formation was really impressive.

    If it weren''t for Sun Man leaving the cave, they would have never been able to defeat Liu Dong. It was a missed opportunity. Now, Lin Jiang was benefiting from it.

    "Come on,e on, show me what you''ve got!"

    Lin Jiang brought over a stool, took out some sunflower seeds, and watched them tirelessly attack. This infuriated Shao Xiong, who put even more effort into his strikes.

    Shao Jie was shouting loudly, never having seen anything so frustrating. He attacked fiercely, giving it his all.

    "Congrattions, you''ve finally depleted my one thousand spirit stones. Keep it up!"

    It took almost a whole day for Lin Jiang''s voice to be heard, and Shao Xiong almost vomited blood again.

    "These southern turtles."

    Shao Xiong angrily said. North of Yunzhong Mountain Range, besides their stronghold, they never set up defensive formations in the wilderness because it''s useless. If they are being targeted by monsters or enemies, the right choice is to run and relocate, not to defend one spot. That''s why they only set up warning formations.

    This made Shao Xiong feel helpless. If they were fighting face-to-face, he could defeat this person within thirty rounds, but now he was hiding inside a turtle shell, and Shao Xiong couldn''t break it.

    "Stop fighting. It won''t work to exhaust his spirit stone. It will take at least a month. We should guard him."

    Shao Xiong told Shao Jie to put away his weapon. Since they couldn''t break through, they would guard him. Shao Xiong didn''t believe this person wouldn''t show up.

    "Hmph, ying a game of endurance, Shao Xiong, you''ve made a mistake."

    "When I was young, I guarded the area next to the monster''s den for three whole years for a medicinal herb. Lin, I wonder how long you can endure?"

    Shao Xiong said coldly, Wilderness hunters have no other advantages, but patience is their strongest. He could guard a monster''s den for three years for a medicinal herb, and then steal from it after the monster left. Now his patience will only be stronger.

    "He''s trying to challenge me. Okay, you can keep waiting."

    When Lin Jiang heard this, he almost burst outughing. He really bought a lot of True Yuan Pills and there was no shortage of food and drink in his cave. He even prepared tens of thousands of jin of jerky for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. He had at least thirty to fifty Inedia Pills. He could stay at home for twenty years without any problems.

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and used his magic to create a thick mist from the formation, blocking the view inside the cave. He released Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, instructing them not to make a sound but to keep a close eye on the two outside. If they made any moves, he wanted to be notified immediately.

    Lin Jiang simply went about his business,pletely ignoring their presence. After all, staying at home was nothing new to him. He was used to it.

    The news of Shao Xiong and his disciples being blocked at the door quickly spread throughout the middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range. Seeing Shao Xiong and his disciples being humiliated, many secretly rejoiced.

    However, many others became jealous of Lin Jiang. Sun Man''s cave was really amazing and now it was upied by Lin Jiang. They felt extremely envious. If only they had fought against Hu Buwei earlier and driven him away, then the cave would have been theirs.

    After a month and a half of stalemate, just when Shao Xiong was undecided whether to retreat, another Taoist came to Lin Jiang''s cave. When Shao Xiong and his disciples saw this person, their faces changed.

    PS1: Book 9 (Chapters 301-340) has been tranted and published on Amazon (https://amzn.to/3QN5xKI).

    PS2: If possible, please rate us on Amazon or Novel Updates to help us. Fanqie is very dissatisfied with "how efficiently we make money". We probably won''t be able to obtain more novel trantions licensed, or we will have to pay a very high price to purchase licenses from them. (г╛йnг╝)

    PS3: Book 10 will be tranted within 3 weeks.

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, middle section

    Zhou Yunyang stood outside Lin Jiang''s cave, several meters away from Shao Xiong. Zhou Yunyang didn''t say a word, but his mocking expression on his face was obvious.

    "Zhou Yunyang, what are you doing here?"

    Shao Xiong said, Zhou Yunyang was his old friend. In the wilderness north of the Yunzhong Mountain Range, Shao Xiong had ambushed Zhou Yunyang seven times, but Zhou Yunyang always managed to escape. Zhou Yunyang didn''t want to fall behind either, so heunched six attacks against Shao Xiong. They ended up bing good friends despite all the fights.

    "I heard about your embarrassment in the wilderness. As a powerfulte stage Building Foundation cultivator, you couldn''t defeat an early stage Building Foundation cultivator, and you even blocked his way. You''ve made all the cultivators in the wilderness lose face."

    "This guy is hiding behind the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation. It''s a third-grade formation. Do you have the ability to break it?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "No, I don''t have the ability."

    "Then why are you even talking? How dare you call yourself a Formation Master and shamelessly im to be the future King of Formations."Shao Xiong also mocked, Zhou Yunyang had exceptional talent in formations and was one of the few skilled Formation Masters among independent cultivators. He had once boasted, after having a few drinks, that he wanted to achieve the same fame as the legendary Alchemist, Pill King Li Ruoxu. Pill King Li Ruoxu had suppressed the pride of two major sects'' alchemists with his outstanding skills. Zhou Yunyang wanted to do the same with formations and dominate over the Formation Masters of the two major sects, iming the title of the King of Formations.

    "I am a mid-stage second-tier Formation Master, and the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation is a high-grade third-tier formation. It''s normal that I can''t break it. But you, shameless as ever, go around extorting independent cultivators and yet couldn''t even make a breakthrough in the early stage of Building Foundation. Tsk tsk, you''ve ruined your reputation."

    "You..."

    "Master, just kill him, he can''t set up formations now."

    "Don''t act, he''s not alone."

    Shao Xiong held onto Shao Jie, if Zhou Yunyang came alone, he would have attacked already.

    "You have quite the nose, old man. You could even smell this."

    "You dare to associate with assassins, aren''t you afraid of the two major sects peeling your skin?"

    Shao Xiong said, the fight had already begun, and he had already locked onto his surroundings, searching for Zhou Yunyang''s aplice, but he couldn''t find them. However, that chilling sense of murderous intent persisted. Shao Xiong guessed that Zhou Yunyang''s aplices were those assassins.

    The Wilderness highly valued the role of a Formation Master, as they could establish a safe base in the Wilderness, which was like a treasure trove. Zhou Yunyang had done the same before, but not long ago, their base was destroyed by a beast tide.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about, assassins with no understanding at all."

    "Hmph, Mr. Zhou, what do you want to do?"

    "Nothing much, just want to take your job. How about it? I''ll give you a way out, you can leave, right?"

    Zhou Yunyang smiled and said, Shao Xiong''s face was uncertain.

    He thought carefully, Zhou Yunyang''s skills as a Formation Master in Yunzhong City would definitely not be able topete with Wilderness. He came back, could it be that something happened in Wilderness?

    "What''s it to you if I let you do it once?"

    After considering, Shao Xiong decided not to argue with Zhou Yunyang, and quickly retreated with Shao Jie.

    "Brother Zhou, why don''t you let me take action? I''m 70% sure I can defeat him. He has a lot of money on him."

    A voice secretly entered Zhou Yunyang''s ears, faintly heard.

    "Don''t underestimate Shao Xiong, this guy is really something. I ambushed him six times and let him escape. It''s not that easy to kill him."

    Zhou Yunyang shook his head, realizing that he wasn''t a match when it came to one-on-one fights, and even if the assassin lost his element of surprise, facing Shao Xiong directly didn''t guarantee that he would be a match.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Zhou Yunyang, I curse you"

    Ten miles east of Lin Jiang''s cave, Shao Xiong red at his abode and cursed Zhou Yunyang through gritted teeth.

    He had been robbed, and his cave had been tampered with by Zhou Yunyang, even though it was clearly his home, he couldn''t enter anymore.

    "Master, what should we do?"

    Shao Jie was both confused and terrified. He had never experienced something like this before. He didn''t dare to go inside his house now, who knows what traps Zhou Yunyang had set up?

    "Let''s go, forget about it."

    Shao Xiong shook his head and left without a second thought. Cultivators who spent most of their time in the Wilderness didn''t focus on managing their possessions because no matter how well they managed, a beast tide could sweep everything away. Therefore, Shao Xiong taking over the cave was merely a temporary safe haven, with no valuable items inside. He was ready to abandon it if necessary.

    One hourter, a unlucky person fell in Shao Xiong''s massacre, and the cave he had managed for many years became someone else''s home. Shao Xiong asked Shao Jie to stay at home while he went out to gather information.

    Five dayster, Shao Xiong returned with a gloomy face. Shao Jie dared not speak loudly. He rarely saw Shao Xiong with such a expression.

    "Master, what happened?"

    "Wilderness is in trouble. The monster n is counterattacking. The strongholds of Wilderness have all been destroyed. Now only the strongholds of the two major sects are holding on, but it seems they can''t hold on for long."

    "No way, didn''t the two major sects have Soul Changing Ancestors guarding them?"

    "I don''t know the details, but all I know is that Wilderness is in trouble."

    "How will this affect us?"

    "The impact is huge. Wilderness is also the money bag of the two major sects. Now that the money bag is broken, they will have to find it from elsewhere."

    Shao Xiong said, the two major sects have never been kind, especially when ites to harvesting independent cultivators. They are ruthless one after another. If the ie from Wilderness is gone, they will have to recover it from other ces. Naturally, it will be collected from the hands of independent cultivators, and Shao Xiong himself is one of them, and also a target for the two major sects to harvest.

    "Did Zhou Yunyange back because of this?"

    "Not only him, but many famous people from Wilderness havee back, Yunzhong Mountain Range will be lively from now on."

    Shao Xiong said. There are many tough and capable people in Wilderness. Before, they didn''t have much impact on this ce as they were only mixing around in Wilderness. But this time, with so many peopleing back, things will be difficult to handle. For example, his extortion n will definitely fail and won''t work.

    "What about Master''s n..."

    "Don''t worry, let''s keep a low profile, see how things develop, and not act like heroes."

    Shao Xiong said. In Wilderness, he is not among the top group yet. He has to wait and see. Surviving is the most important. Those who act recklessly will die first.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend Lin, have you made a decision?"

    In front of Lin Jiang''s cave, Zhou Yunyang appeared again. On that day, Zhou Yunyang drove away Shao Xiong, didn''t harm Lin Jiang, but made new demands.

    Zhou Yunyang asked Lin Jiang to join him, promising not only to protect their cave but also to provide many benefits, ensuring that they will notck any resources in the future.

    Lin Jiang''s eyes were hesitant as he had recently been in contact with Fan Tong and others, who informed him that many dangerous people had returned to the north side of the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Not only Shao Xiong and Zhou Yunyang, but also others.

    The previously independent cultivators with a basic middle-level cultivation in the southern building foundation were almost gone. Even Fan Tong had fled and sought refuge in Yunzhong City. Fan Tong told Lin Jiang that something major had happened in the north, and these cruel independent cultivators from the north considered their southern counterparts as easy prey. Many people had been killed, and Fan Tong urged Lin Jiang to leave as soon as possible.

    "Dear Taoist Friend Zhou, may I ask what exactly happened in the north?"

    "That''s something dear Taoist Friend doesn''t need to worry about. Just answer me, will you agree or not?"

    "If I don''t agree, will I die?"

    "You''re smart, dear Taoist Friend. It''s exactly as you think."

    Zhou Yunyang smiled and said. There''s big trouble in the north. The independent cultivator strongholds have beenpletely wiped out, with only two major sects barely holding on. However, he dares to confirm that the demonic forces'' attack won''tst long, and the cultivators will rise again.

    During this time, he needed to gather more followers who could be used as cannon fodder when they return to the north. Of course, if some are skilled and talented, they can be groomed as trusted subordinates.

    "Then I choose not to agree."

    Lin Jiang answered directly, that''s just how he is, he likes when people are nice to him and not when they are mean.

    Of course, Lin Jiang also considered the pros and cons. He doesn''t know how Zhou Yunyang is as a person or how he does things. If he joins Zhou Yunyang, he will probably end up being used as a pawn. Naturally, Lin Jiang doesn''t want that.

    "If I don''t agree, then it''s fine. Taoist Friend Lin, please stay at home and don''te out!"

    Zhou Yunyang smiled. It won''t be easy to force someone with a strong cave like this toe out. He can just wait here. He is more patient than Shao Xiong, after all.

    "Then Taoist Friend doesn''t need to worry."

    Lin Jiang covered his figure and returned to the cave.

    However, Lin Jiang''s mood was a little bit bad. He knew that if there''s a problem here in the middle part of Yunzhong Mountain Range, it will be harder and harder for him to survive in the future. But he doesn''t want to give up this cave.

    He invested a lot of spirit stones into this cave and it''s also veryfortable. The core area is hundreds of acres big. He can do whatever he wants here. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are the same. In Yunzhong City, they can only walk in a very small yard. So, whether it''s in terms of benefits or emotions, Lin Jiang doesn''t want to give up.

    So Lin Jiang could only choose to hold on. Even without considering the spiritual talisman, he had confidence now. With the Explosive Element Technique and excellent quality spiritual weapons equipped on him, he wasn''t weak at all.

    "Being patient doesn''t mean always giving in,promising, or avoiding. When it''s time to take action, you still need to take action."

    Lin Jiangforted himself, saying that he couldn''t keep hiding. If he only defended, he would be continuously attacked. He needed to find an opportunity to kill a few powerful ones to intimidate the others.

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91

    In the middle section of the Yunzhong Mountain Range

    In just a few days, the entire middle section, spanning thousands of miles, became a ce that made independent cultivators tremble in fear. Independent cultivators from the north of the Yunzhong Mountain Range kept pouring in,mitting one bloodshed after another. In just one day, over 300 independent cultivators were killed, mostly from the vast number of Qi Refining Period cultivators.

    In the following days, as the situation escted, arge number of independent cultivators fled. They either entered Yunzhong City or the viges and towns outside the city to avoid being killed.

    With the mass exodus of ordinary independent cultivators, only the tough ones remained. There were quite a few caves like Lin Jiang''s that had a third-tier defensive formation. Before tackling these tough nuts, the northern faction independent cultivators started killing each other. Countless cultivators were drenched in blood every day.

    "They''ve gonepletely insane, killing like mad."

    Lin Jiang stood above his cave, his eyes empowered by spiritual energy, looking around. Everywhere he looked, he could see several conflicts happening, including Zhou Yunyang, who was a threat to him, engaged in a fight with someone else.

    Lin Jiang couldn''t understand why the independent cultivators from the northern faction had such a strong murderous intent. Hadn''t they thought about earning spirit stones through their own cultivation and production? Did they really have to rely on robbery for everything they needed?

    After a while, Lin Jiang saw Zhou Yunyang emerge from Lin Jiang''s cave, covered in blood. He wasn''t alone, there were three other people with him, all at the Building Foundation Period.

    "Dear Taoist Friend Lin, sorry for the inconvenience. We would like to borrow your cave."Zhou Yunyang said to Lin Jiang and promptly set up more than ten formation tes. These tes surrounded Lin Jiang''s cave, creating a new outer formation where Zhou Yunyang and the others hid.

    Lin Jiang''s expression turned dark. This guy named Zhou had a wicked heart. He was deliberately drawing trouble towards him. When his enemies came, they would surely see him as Zhou Yunyang''s aplice.

    "Well, you''re tough. But did you know, I need someone to show their strength, and youing here is a perfect opportunity."

    Lin Jiang coldly stared at Zhou Yunyang, as if looking at a dead person. Well, they brought this upon themselves, so he couldn''t me anyone else.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Zhonghang Sect, Grand Hall of the Sect.

    Outside the main gate, the respected Elder Nn De from the Outer Sect was discussing matters of the Yunzhong Mountain Range with the Sect Master of Zhonghang Sect. Despite being called an "Elder," Nn De was actually considered just a middle-ranking member in Zhonghang Sect due to his cultivation level being only in the Golden Core Period.

    Only by advancing to the Nascent Soul stage and bing an Elder of the entire Zhonghang Sect would one qualify as a true high-ranking member.

    "You don''t need to worry about Yunzhong Mountain Range, let those independent cultivators who love to kill do as they please. A group of low-level cultivators, at most a few mid-level cultivators, cannot cause any trouble."

    "Master, I am worried that it will affect the ie of Yunzhong City. If all the independent cultivators in the mountains are gone, there will be no one to cultivate crops or grow spiritual herbs."

    Nn De said. Yunzhong Mountain Range covers thousands of miles, and there are thousands of independent cultivators living there. They open up caves, cultivate spiritualnd, grow spiritual crops, and raise spiritual beasts. They are an important source of resources for Yunzhong City.

    Now that all the people have left, the city will definitely be affected. The prices will soar, trade will be greatly impacted, and there will be no taxes without trade.

    "Don''t be so naive. That piece ofnd has never been very important. By not upying it with the Cloud Sword Sect, we are giving the independent cultivators a ce to vent their frustrations."

    The sect leader shook his head. With their strength, it would be easy for them to unify the middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range. There must be a deeper reason why they didn''t do so.

    The two major sects have monopolized too many things. They could havepletely blocked the independent cultivators'' paths to advancement. However, doing so would certainly provoke a bacsh from the independent cultivators. In a situation where they have no hope for the future, they would attack the two major sects recklessly.

    This is indeed what happened. That''s why the two major sects intentionally left this ce empty, giving the independent cultivators hope. They let them fight among themselves. With thousands of Qi Refining cultivators and hundreds of Building Foundation cultivators, there may be one or two Golden Core cultivators emerging through the breeding of spirit insects.

    However, these Golden Core cultivators ultimately cannot pose a threat to them. They will willingly go to the north because the resources in the south are no longer sufficient, so they can only seek resources in the Wilderness.

    With this move, the two major sects have firmly held power for thousands of years, without any force that can challenge them. People like Pill King Li Ruoxu are rare, and even he cannot pose a threat to them.

    "Yes, Master, I understand."

    Nn De lowered his head and agreed, feeling somewhat helpless. He had been so proactive because he had a lot to gain over there. He had hoped to handle this matter with the help of the sect, but since the sect disagreed, he could only reluctantly give up this part of the benefit.

    "Master."

    As they were talking, Ouyang Qing walked in and bowed to the Master.

    "Elder Thirteen, you havee at the right time. Are all the personnel ready?"

    "We''re all prepared. I will personally lead the team, along with fifteen Golden Core cultivators and one hundred twenty Building Foundation cultivators. We will depart today."

    "Very well, remember not to attack rashly. Just defend the stronghold. The demons are not good at attacking cities and cannot sustain long battles. Given enough time, they will naturally retreat."

    "I understand. This time, I am here to collect supplies."

    "Everyone is ready, let''s go to the Internal Affairs Hall and collect it."

    The head nodded and handed amand token to Ouyang Qing. Ouyang Qing nced at Nn De and immediately left without saying much.

    "Head, this is..."

    "There''s nothing important, go and do your tasks."

    The head waved his hand and Nn De quickly left.

    "So many things going on, sigh."

    The head looked at the empty hall and sighed. Compared to the matters in the north, the things in the south were nothing. That was where the threat to the sect reallyy.

    The coboration of the two major sects for hundreds of years had turned into nothing overnight. This made the head feel mentally exhausted. He even pondered if he should step down from his position as head. In that Soul Changing realm, he still had a slight chance to strive for.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The four of them hid around Lin Jiang''s cave in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. It was unexpected that many people passed by but didn''t notice them, which made Zhou Yunyang quite pleased.

    "Brother Zhou, let''s take care of that kid inside."

    In the middle of the night, Zhou Yunyang heard a whisper. Actually, there were not just four of them, but five. One of them had a special spiritual tool that could make them invisible, so the casual building foundation wouldn''t be able to find them.

    "What''s wrong, feeling itchy?"

    "Well, just now I used the Magical Eye to take a quick look. I saw at least hundreds of acres of spiritual herbs, all of them second level. Many of them are already mature. If we were to take these herbs, we could make a big profit."

    "Hundreds of acres of second level spiritual herbs, no wonder this kid doesn''t want to leave."

    Zhou Yunyang was shocked. If all the hundreds of acres of second level spiritual herbs were mature, there would be at least seventy to eighty thousand spirit stones. If there were some more expensive ones, it wouldn''t be impossible to have over a hundred thousand.

    People die for wealth, birds die for food. They went to the Wilderness to hunt monsters, all for money. Zhou Yunyang could understand why this kid didn''t want to leave.

    "Brother Zhou, are you in or out?"

    "Can you break the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation?"

    "I have a Breaking Array Cone, a second-order formation that can prate even the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation, but we must remainpletely still."

    "Are you sure the Breaking Array Cone can break it?"

    "If we create an opening and allow one or two people to enter, it''s possible. But if we go together, with you in the light and me in the dark, killing him will be as easy as pie."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    The assassin exined that he had bought the Breaking Array Cone from someone else. It used to belong to a powerful assassin in his organization, but that person had died, so now it was his.

    "Alright, let''s do it."

    Zhou Yunyang was immediately intrigued. He didn''t know when the two major sects would stabilize the situation in the north. If he couldn''t return for a long time, he would have to find another path. But no matter what he did, he needed money. Money is the key to everything.

    Zhou Yunyang discussed with the other three people and asked them to be ready outside, ensuring that no one else would approach. They would go inside and deal with the person surnamed Lin.

    "Brother Zhou, are you ready?"

    "Are you ready? You can go ahead, I can dash in an instant."

    Zhou Yunyang nodded. He was already standing outside of the protective barrier, only about twenty meters away. With such a close distance, he could cross it in just a moment.

    "Okay."

    "Bang!"

    The assassin responded and then used the Breaking Array Cone to attack the barrier. The Breaking Array Cone was a weapon specifically designed to break barriers. It could easily slice through barriers of second-tier or lower, but for a third-tier barrier, it would need to be forcefully broken.

    After a loud bang, a hole appeared in the barrier. Zhou Yunyang was incredibly fast and managed to dash through the hole before it closed.

    "Ying..."

    However, as soon as he entered, he heard a piercing scream. Zhou Yunyang was startled and realized it was not good. This person unexpectedly had a beast pet.

    "Puff."

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were incredibly fast. As soon as the formation was attacked, they reacted instantly. When Zhou Yunyang entered, they grabbed him from both sides, their ws tearing into his shoulders and lifting him up before throwing him into the air.

    "Brother Zhou"

    The assassin was also shocked by the unexpected turn of events. At this point, they couldn''t afford to remain hidden any longer. They revealed themselves and struck at Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao with a sword, preventing them from finishing off Zhou Yunyang. Otherwise, Zhou Yunyang would surely die.

    "Aurora falcon"

    "Two Aurora falcons at thete stage of the second rank"

    Zhou Yunyang regained his bnce and slowly descended. He applied some medicinal powder to his wound and coldly watched Lin Jiang walking out of the gate.

    "You guys are really looking for trouble, searchingnterns in the toilet."

    Lin Jiang looked at the two people, unable to say anything for a while. He was still thinking about how to separate them and conquer each one individually. But they surprised him bying to him willingly. Isn''t that asking for trouble?

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, middle section.

    Inside Lin Jiang''s cave, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were circling around at a height of about a hundred meters. They kept adjusting their positions, taking on the posture of attack. Hunting and killing were their instincts, and they were ready to face any intruders.

    "Even in the early stages of a small building foundation, they can afford to raise two level-twote-stage spiritual beasts. That''s really impressive."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhou Yunyang looked at Lin Jiang, then nced at the two Aurora falcons. He had an approving look on his face. That''s great! A cultivator who can afford to raise level-twote-stage spiritual beasts must be very rich. It''s no wonder they put in so much effort.

    "Come and give it a try. If you win against me, all of this is yours."

    Lin Jiang took out his flying sword and pointed it at Zhou Yunyang, provoking him.

    "I''ll take care of the two beast pets, you deal with him, okay?"

    Zhou Yunyang said to the assassin next to him. The assassin''s cultivation was not very high, at the mid-stage of Building foundation. If his identity was exposed during the earlier fight with Shao Xiong, they would have to retreat. However, facing an early-stage Building foundation opponent, he felt confident in his chances of winning."No problem, Brother Zhou. Let''s make it quick and not cause too muchmotion, lest others take advantage of it."

    The assassin nodded, he didn''t think he would lose. He had been a fierce bandit in the Wilderness for over ten years, while the person called Lin was just a useless independent cultivator surviving here.

    "Start!"

    Zhou Yunyang soared into the sky, actively seeking a challenge from the Aurora falcon.

    The assassin instantly put on the invisibility cloak and disappeared from Lin Jiang''s sight.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang remained calm and stabbed with his sword. The Explosive Element Technique consumed a hundred years of lifespan and multiplied its power tenfold.

    "Puff"

    Lin Jiang''s sword aimed to his right, and the flying sword pierced through the assassin, stringing him up directly.

    "You..."

    The assassin looked confused. The Dark Night Organization''s assassination techniques,bined with his special invisibility tool, should have allowed him to silently kill his opponent. Why does he know that he is here?

    "Surprised, aren''t you?"

    Lin Jiang''s power flowed through the sword, damaging the assassin''s internal organs. The assassin fell heavily to the ground, lifeless.

    "I didn''t expect you to be so foolish."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He knew where the assassin was because his secret hideout had two formations. One was the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation facing outward, and the other was the Five Elements Shock Killing Formation inside. Everything inside the formations was under Lin Jiang''s control.

    "Boom!"

    Zhou Yunyang had been watching Lin Jiang closely. When he saw his assassin brother get killed, Zhou Yunyang immediately turned to attack. However, at that moment, a sharp de appeared in the sky and struck Zhou Yunyang, causing him to fall.

    "Five Elements Shock Killing Formation"

    Zhou Yunyang was shocked. How much money does this guy have to afford two sets of formations? He must be really scared of dying to invest so much.

    "Try a fire attack."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly and activated his spell. Suddenly, dozens of fire dragons appeared in the sky, sweeping towards Zhou Yunyang.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao seemed afraid of fire, so they flew to Lin Jiang''s side. Zhou Yunyang, on the other hand, was defending against the fire dragons'' attacks. The third-level killing formation he used had the attacking power of ate-stage Building foundation cultivator. He was having a tough time blocking the attacks.

    "Big Shadiao, Small Shadiao,e with me and kill the enemies."

    Lin Jiang nced at the formation token and saw that it was already shing red. The only downside of his cave was that the spiritual vein level was too low. In just a few moments, the spiritual energy provided by the spiritual vein was depleted, so he had to replenish it with spirit stones.

    "One Sword Flying Immortal"

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Lin Jiang continued to use One Sword Flying Immortal. It was a powerful move that could defeat any opponent. He wasn''t concerned about the technique being old as long as it had the power.

    "Boom"

    Zhou Yunyang barely blocked the attack, but he was shocked to see that his expensive, top-quality flying sword had cracked.

    "superb quality spiritual weapon"

    Zhou Yunyang remembered something a master craftsman had told him - the master had suggested that he create an amazingly well-crafted magical weapon with immense power, but Zhou Yunyang had declined because it was too expensive.

    "You guessed right"

    "What does the use of an amazingly well-crafted magical weapon matter? Today, I will kill you"

    Zhou Yunyang felt determined. He considered theck of spiritual energy in Lin Jiang''s cave and the need for arge amount of spiritual energy to support two sets of third-level formations. He also knew that having a weapon advantage didn''t guarantee victory.

    "Boom"

    In the next moment, Zhou Yunyang stabbed Lin Jiang with his sword, but Lin Jiang''s robes emitted a radiant light,pletely deflecting the attack.

    "Is it of great quality again?"

    "You guessed it, give it to me."

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly and used the flying sword to attack repeatedly, striking more than ten times. The flying sword in Zhou Yunyang''s hand shatteredpletely.

    At this moment, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao alsounched an attack. They coordinated extremely well with Lin Jiang. When the flying sword in Zhou Yunyang''s hand shattered, the two Shadiaos swooped down.

    Big Shadiao pecked and shattered his protective energy, while Small Shadiao wed and shredded his shoulder, causing Zhou Yunyang to scream in pain.

    Seeing this opportunity, Lin Jiang threw a dart, which went through the wound on his shoulder and came out from the top of his head.

    "Don''t rest, take care of the three outside as well."

    Lin Jiang took their storage bag and casually told Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to prepare for an ambush.

    Then, Lin Jiang grabbed Zhou Yunyang''s body with one hand, carried it to the edge of the formation, opened a gap, and made some movements.

    "Taoist Friend Zhou"

    The three people heard a noise and turned around to see Zhou Yunyang. They were immediately delighted, as it seemed they had seeded.

    At this moment, they had no idea what was happening inside. The holes in the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation had already been sealed, blocking their view and sound. Even their divine senses could not prate through.

    The three people didn''t see Zhou Yunyang respond, but they saw him wave his hand at them and then turn around to leave. They exchanged nces and quickly followed him.

    They never realized that Zhou Yunyang would lose. On their side, there was an assassin at thete Building Foundation stage and another at the mid Building Foundation stage. If they couldn''t defeat someone at the early Building Foundation stage, it would be too unbelievable.

    "You..."

    When the three people entered the formation, it quickly closed, and they realized something was wrong. However, it was toote. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao swooped down like arrows.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao were already known for their speed. At this moment, they were fully prepared, and their transformations happened in an instant. The three people didn''t even have time to activate their protective aura and were directly killed by Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    Lin Jiang naturally made a sneak attack, severely injuring it with a sword, and then took it down in over ten rounds.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Master, Master, something''s wrong!"

    "What happened that made you so anxious?"

    "Zhou Yunyang is gone."

    "Gone? What do you mean?"

    "He''s dead, it''s Lin Wu''s doing. He died in Lin Wu''s house."

    "What? That''s impossible, he was only in the early stages of building foundation."

    "It''s true. There are five wooden poles at the front of his house, and his body is hanging from them. There''s even antern hanging, very noticeable."

    "Let''s go."

    Shao Xiong couldn''t sit still, immediately getting up and flying away. Zhou Yunyang had been his mortal enemy for decades, and despite several ambushes, he had never been able to kill him. How could he just easily die like this?

    The two flew to the front of Lin Jiang''s cave, where there were five tree trunks over ten meters tall. There was antern at the very top, while the tree trunks were hung with five bodies. If it wasn''t Zhou Yunyang''s group, then who could it be?

    "Open."

    Shao Xiong activated his Magical Eye to observe Lin Jiang''s cave. Lin Jiang willingly dispelled the smoke caused by the formation and smiled at him.

    "How did you do it?"

    "Do you think this streetlight is bright or not?"

    "I''m asking you how you did it."

    "Just tell me if this streetlight is bright or not. If it''s not, I''ll add a few more."

    Lin Jiang showed a menacing smile. I don''t bully you guys, but you alle and bully me. Do you really think I''m easy to mess with? If I get provoked, I''ll hang all of you on streetlights.

    Shao Xiong became silent. Zhou Yunyang, who had simr abilities to him and even more people, died here. This reminded him of the recent challenge he made to Lin Jiang.

    "Master..."

    "Let''s go, we''ve misjudged."

    Shao Xiong said, it turned out they weren''t targeting the family dog, but a fierce tiger that would devour people once it attacked.

    "Things should be much quieter now."

    Lin Jiang saw Shao Xiong leaving, but he didn''t chase after him. Taking down Zhou Yunyang and his group was actually a lucky break. If they had a proper confrontation, Lin Jiang wouldn''t have been a match.

    Smoke billowed, and Lin Jiang''s figure disappeared into the cave. He returned home to continue counting his spoils.

    "Without opportunities, one cannot be wealthy. Plundering and killing indeed seem to be the quickest way to make money."

    An hourter, Lin Jiang neatly organized all the items and said to himself.

    From the storage bag of the five people, Lin Jiang found a total of three hundred and fifty thousand spirit stones, as well as over a hundred bottles of various elixirs, including the True Spirit Pill. The total value is estimated to be no less than thirty thousand spirit stones.

    The most abundant items were various materials from monsters, such as fur, bones, ws, and flesh. Lin Jiang couldn''t estimate their exact value. If we include their shields and flying swords, Lin Jiang expected the total value to be no less than five hundred thousand.

    That''s why Lin Jiang sighed. You can''t get rich without any windfalls. This ughter has brought him wealth, surpassing even when he crafted superb quality spiritual weapons in the past.

    "I don''t like killing, but I hope for peace."

    Lin Jiang shook his head again and collected all the items into his storage bag. He didn''t have much desire for killing, but unfortunately, in the cultivation world, cultivators who don''t shed blood are rare.

    Perhaps it was because of Zhou Yunyang''s reputation, but for the next half month, no one bothered Lin Jiang anymore. They all avoided him. Lin Jiang''s fame had spread throughout the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    Lin Jiang paid no attention to this. He never left his home, spending his days cultivating, drawing symbols, taking care of medicinal herbs, and ying with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. His days became much more fulfilling.

    However, the killing continued in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Once the original independent cultivators had fled, the independent cultivators from the north started killing each other. As big fish ate smaller fish, they also formed alliances. The power of these independent cultivators was growing, and some groups already had dozens of members.

    After two more months, Lin Jiang''s neighbor, the cave that used to belong to Xie Youjia, was upied once again. Lin Jiang weed his new neighbor.

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93

    Middle section of Yunzhong Mountain Range

    A group of cultivators arrived at the cave of Lin Jiang. One person took out a Sound Passing Talisman and handed it to Lin Jiang. He opened it and heard a voice saying, "Lin Wu, my Taoist friend, I am Yusong. Pleasee out for a conversation."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and the smoke around him dispersed, revealing his figure. The person in front of him approached.

    "Yusongtaoist friendг┐"

    "Indeed, it is I."

    "May I know what brings you here?"

    "I dare not im to give instructions. I have brought my friend to establish a stronghold in the Cangying Ridge ahead. We also have friends stationed in this area. I came to pay a visit to our neighbors."

    "Establish a stronghold?"

    "Yes, recently, there has been chaos in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. Many independent cultivators who returned from the north have been causing great harm, resulting in arge number of them bing disced. Yusong couldn''t bear to see this and thus gathered his friends to establish a stronghold for self-protection. Many friends came to help, but the Canying Ridge is small and cannot amodate so many taoist friends. Therefore, a group of people has been purposely relocated nearby. After learning that Taoist Friend Lin is here, they came to pay their respects."Yusong''s words made Lin Jiang silent. During this period, he had been staying at home and knew very little about the outside world. He was still unclear about Yusong''s origin and intentions.

    "If Taoist Friend is worried, there''s no need toe out. Today''s just a notice. We''ll understand Yusong''s character as time goes by."

    "What do you want to do?"

    "Just to protect ourselves."

    "I''m not interested in joining you."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, you''ve misunderstood. I didn''t ask Taoist Friend to join us. I just hope that Taoist Friend will be kind to others and be a good neighbor in the future."

    "I won''t harm others unless they harm me."

    "Great, then Yusong will take his leave first."

    Yusong bowed to Lin Jiang and then led his group away. Lin Jiang watched him leave.

    "He looks quite polite, what''s going on?"

    Lin Jiang wondered in his heart. Compared to those who were extremely wicked, Yusong indeed appeared very polite. Some people''s personalities are hard to hide. Of course, it could also be a cunning facade.

    Lin Jiang pondered for a while, unable to figure it out. He took out the Sound Passing Talisman and sent it to a few friends to see what was happening.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Taoist Friend Lin"

    "Fan Tong, my Taoist friend, why are you here? Didn''t you hide in Yunzhong City?"

    Three dayster, someone suddenly called out to Lin Jiang at the door. When Lin Jiang went out to have a look, it turned out to be Fan Tong. Lin Jiang remembered that Fan Tong had indeed fled to Yunzhong City.

    "Friend Lin, you''ve been at home for many days, unaware of the outside situation. Now, the Yunzhong Mountain Range has returned to calm."

    "What does it mean?"

    "May Ie in and speak slowly? I am alone."

    "Come in."

    Lin Jiang looked around with his divine sense, making sure there was no one nearby. Even if there were someone, he wasn''t afraid. After fighting with Zhou Yunyang, Lin Jiang knew his own strength.

    "Thank you for trusting me, Taoist Friend Lin."

    "What''s happening outside now?"

    Recently, a lot of fierce and cruel people came from the north, causing a massacre in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. About ny percent of the independent cultivators at the Qi Refining and Building Foundation stages fled. These killers realized that without independent cultivators to prey on, they didn''t dare to plunder near Yunzhong City. So they turned against each other. But they soon realized that if they continued killing each other, they would all perish. Everyone was after wealth, not insanity.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Therefore, several influential independent cultivators stood up and gathered a group of independent cultivators to establish their own stronghold for self-protection. Now, within a radius of thousands of miles, five forces have emerged. They are Taoist Yusong of Cangying Ridge, the Zheng brothers of ck Water Pool, Chen Xuan of Medicine Immortal Valley, Ma Ping of Songmao Mountain, and Fu Tao of Baiyugang. These five are currently the leading figures among the independent cultivators in the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    "Do the two major sects have any objections to their actions?"

    "What''s your opinion? It''s not just onepany, there are five of them."

    "That''s right."

    Lin Jiang replied, but he felt that the two major factions must have their own people among these five forces, and it''s possible that all of them are their people.

    This is not unheard of. Look at the fishing gang next to the Yuntuo River. Without the approval of the two major factions, it wouldn''t be possible.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, Yunzhong Mountain Range is different now, the territory has been divided, Taoist Friend Lin also needs to find a sheltering force."

    "It seems that Fan Tongtaoist friend has made a choice."

    "That''s right, I have chosen Taoist Yusong."

    "What about the other four? Can you introduce them to me?"

    Lin Jiang nodded. It was expected that without someone''s instructions, Fan Tong wouldn''t have told him so much.

    "The five factions are all quite simr. The leaders are all at the Building Foundation stage, but Taoist Yusong is a bit stronger. He has attempted to break through to the Golden Core stage before, although unsessful, but he has already stepped into the Golden Core stage with one foot. The next in line would be the Zhengzhan and Zhengqin brothers. They both have aplished the Building Foundation stage and they are also twin brothers who have a telepathic connection. Theirbined attacks are very strong. As for the other three factions, they also have their unique strengths."

    "Since you want to recruit me, what are the conditions? You surely can''t offer me no benefits at all."

    "Of course there are conditions. Taoist Yusong said that if Taoist Friend Lin is willing to join Cangying Ridge and is willing to be given a position within Cangying Ridge, this cave dwelling will be reserved for you. People can be sent to help with the management, and all the proceeds will go to Taoist Friend Lin."

    "What do you want me to do?"

    Lin Jiang said. Cangying Ridge, ck Water Pool, and Medicine Immortal Valley are all blessednds within the Yunzhong Mountain Range. The spiritual energy levels are very high there, and it has always been a sought-after ce. Cultivating there will definitely be very beneficial for cultivation.

    "There''s no need to do much. Taoist Friend Lin is a Talisman Maker and can make amulets to sell to everyone. The prices will be the same as in Yunzhong City. If someonees to provoke, Taoist Friend Lin can help fight."

    "Is there anything else?"

    "No, if Taoist Friend Lin wants to do other things, that''s also possible. For example, helping to patrol the territory will have its own rewards."

    "Which faction did Shao Xiong and his disciples join?"

    "No, there are many other people like Taoist Friend Lin who are independent cultivators. But it''s just a matter of time. How can someone who fights alone be apetitor for everyone to seek warmth together, right?"

    "That''s true."

    "So, what does Taoist Friend Lin think?"

    "As for me, I don''t have much vision or ambition. Besides, I''m used to being wild, so I won''t join in."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, please reconsider."

    Fan Tong became anxious. Brother, if you didn''t mean it, you should have said it earlier. He has even run out of saliva! You can''t just say you won''t join, that''s so disappointing.

    "I''m really a free and umitted person. Sorry, Fan Tongtaoist friend."

    "Oh, it seems like I''m not suitable to be a mediator."

    "No, Taoist Friend Fan is still very excellent. He will surely achieve great sess in Cangying Ridge."

    "I''ll take your kind words then. Since Taoist Friend Lin doesn''t want to go, we won''t force you. If Taoist Friend Lin changes your mind in the future, please let me know."

    "Certainly."

    "Then I''ll take my leave first."

    Fan Tong wasn''t worried. He still had to hurry to the next ce. Although Yusong valued Lin Jiang a lot, he wasn''t indispensable.

    "The world is bing more chaotic, with all kinds of monsters and creatures appearing."

    After seeing Fan Tong off, Lin Jiang sighed when he returned home.

    "If they don''t have a story behind them, I''ll punish myself by not going to Baihua Tower for three years."

    Lin Jiang sighed again. There are definitely golden core independent cultivators in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, though maybe only a few. But they don''t say a word. The waters here are too deep. Lin Jiang doesn''t n to get involved.

    After a few more days, Lin Jiang saw that order was gradually restored in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, so he left the mountains and went to Yunzhong City. He needed to clean up the things in his storage bag.

    Over the years, he had killed many people, and his storage bag was almost too full of misceneous items. He needed to clean it up. He also needed to sell some of the spiritual talismans he had drawn.

    He didn''t go to the big market. He openly sold some of the items to businesses and sold the rest in the city''s underground market.

    After two days passed, Lin Jiang reached a total of 850,000 spirit stones on his body without cleaning everything up. This number shocked Lin Jiang himself.

    "When did I be so rich? Oh no, when things go wrong, there will be disaster. When money goes wrong, it''s the same one by one."

    Lin Jiang looked at a whole storage bag full of spirit stones and felt worried. If news of this leaked out, people from the entire Yunzhong City woulde to hunt him down. Even the Nascent Soul Ancestor might make a move.

    "How about buying a house?"

    A thought suddenly popped up in Lin Jiang''s mind. In a slightly remote area of Yunzhong City, he could buy a small house with enough money.

    But he rejected the idea. During the Blue Star period, he didn''t want to be enved by a house. It was the same here. Although he could pay it in full, this was the money he had saved up over more than a hundred years, worse off than being enved by a house.

    The most important thing was that a house in Yunzhong City couldn''t provide food and drink. If he didn''t have any backing, he would still be targeted by others unless he was willing to restore Lin Sheng''s identity and continue to embrace Cao Ying''s support.

    "Spending money, spending money. Keeping so much money makes me uneasy. If one day I get killed, others will benefit from it all."

    "Shadiao friends, you are also lucky, from now on we will eat Demon Core as our food."

    Lin Jiang gritted his teeth and decided to spend money. Poor people rely on mutations, rich people rely on spending money. Now he is also rich, so he doesn''t need mutations anymore. Mutations are not reliable, but spending money is.

    And Lin Jiang decided to increase his investment in Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. It''s just the third level, let''s do it. Let''s eat Demon Core.

    For the next half month, Lin Jiang lingered in the various shops of Yunzhong City, constantly changing his identity and purchasing arge amount of daily needed pills like True Spirit Pill and Soul Nourishing Pill.

    Lin Jiang also bought a total of twenty third-level Demon Cores for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Each third-level Demon Core costs between thirty thousand to eighty thousand spirit stones. If he didn''t have enough money, he would continue to sell items like spiritual tools that Lin Jiang didn''t need at all.

    After such insane spending of nearly one million spirit stones, most of Lin Jiang''s spirit stones were used up. The remaining ones had to be saved for emergencies, as maintaining the cave also incurred a considerable expense.

    Quietly leaving Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang returned to Yunzhong Mountain Range once again. Near his cave, he encountered the people of Cangying Ridge who were patrolling.

    "Who goes there?"

    "Stop."

    The people of Eagle Mountain saw Lin Jiang and shouted loudly. Lin Jiang remained silent, took out his flying sword, and coldly looked at the people in front of him.

    "Misunderstanding, misunderstanding, please don''t get violent."

    At this moment, Fan Tong appeared and quietly spoke to the patrolling people. Their faces immediately changed, and they quickly put away their weapons.

    "Friend Lin, it''s all a misunderstanding, please put away your weapons."

    "Friend Fan Tong, it seems that the streetmp in front of my house isn''t bright enough."

    "It really is a misunderstanding, Friend Lin."

    "Alright, since it''s a misunderstanding, I hope there won''t be a second time. Can we move on?"

    "Of course, I will go back and tell Friend Yusong, and ask him to give the order to let everyone in Cangying Ridge know about Taoist Friend Lin''s identity. There won''t be a second misunderstanding."

    Fan Tong quickly said. Zhou Yunyang and his group of five were killed by Lin Jiang alone. Everyone in the independent cultivatormunity in the Yunzhong Mountain Range already knows about it. They are all amazed by Lin Jiang''s strength and don''t want to offend him easily.

    "Hmph!"

    Lin Jiang snorted coldly and didn''t care about anything else. He went straight back to his own cave and thenpletely sealed it off. He hung a "Do not disturb" sign. He was ready to stay in seclusion for a long time and wouldn''te out until he used up all his medicinal pills. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao wouldn''te out until they reached the third level.

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94

    Thirty years on the east side of the river, thirty years on the west side. Don''t underestimate the poor youth.

    Thirty years passed in the blink of an eye. During these thirty years, Lin Jiang never left his cave. He was always immersed in closed-door cultivation. Finally, his cultivation reached the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm.

    "It''s not easy. I''m 204 years old now, and I finally reached the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm. It''s a pity that there doesn''t seem to be any enemies in the Building Foundation period for me to seek revenge on."

    Lin Jiang opened his eyes. This lousy aptitude is truly frustrating. From the early stage to the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm, it took Lin Jiang about forty years, and he consumed much more resources than others.

    "Brother, brother, eat, eat."

    Lin Jiang just walked out of the door, when he heard a grumpy voice from Grandma, and then a big head bumped into him, almost knocking him down.

    "How many times do I have to say it? Don''t call me brother, call me Dad. I''m your Dad."

    Lin Jiang pushed the big head aside and stood up, holding a bird feather, shouting at Big Shadiao.

    It was Big Shadiao who was speaking. Lin Jiang had prepared ten Demon Cores for them. When Big Shadiao had eaten the ninth one, it had slept for three years and woke up at the third stage.A fourth-stage monster can transform, and a third-stage monster can speak. At first, Big Shadiao called Lin Jiang "Mom," almost making him faint. After being scolded by Lin Jiang a few times, it started calling him "brother," but still refused to call him "Dad."

    "Brother, brother..."

    "Stop calling me brother. I gave you all the dried meat. Do you want an Inedia Pill or not?"

    Lin Jiang gave up. Although Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao could speak, their intelligence levels were still low. No matter how he tried to teach them, they just couldn''t learn. He didn''t want to bother anymore.

    He took out an Inedia Pill and threw it to Big Shadiao, while Small Shadiao was still walking around the yard, acting like it didn''t recognize anyone. After breaking through the third stage, it suddenly became cold and distant, and he didn''t know why.

    "Little Shadiao, aren''t you hungry?"

    Lin Jiang asked, and Little Shadiao nced at Lin Jiang and ignored him. Little Shadiao continued walking, not knowing what was going on in his little head.

    Lin Jiang got very angry and rushed over to grab Little Shadiao''s head. He gave him eighteen hard knocks on the head, making Little Shadiao wince in pain. Little Shadiao opened his beak, ready to peck at Lin Jiang. Just then, Big Shadiao appeared and pinned Little Shadiao to the ground for a while.

    It''s worth mentioning that Lin Jiang finally found out the gender of Big Shadiao and Little Shadiao. Big Shadiao is a sister, and Little Shadiao is a brother.

    "It''s only natural for older sister to hit younger brother. He deserves it!"

    Lin Jiang watched as Little Shadiao was being beaten up by himself. He couldn''t help butugh. Big Shadiao had always been bullying Little Shadiao since they were young.

    After they yed for a while, Lin Jiang put them away. Lin Jiang needed to go out because the True Spirit Pill and Soul Nourishing Pill were all used up. He needed to buy more and get Big Shadiao and Little Shadiao a bigger Spirit Beast Bag. Now they were bigger than Lin Jiang, and the bag was too crowded.

    Actually, they could use magic to be smaller, but they didn''t listen. They didn''t want to be smaller, so Lin Jiang just let them be.

    At the barrier of the formation, Lin Jiang saw dozens of Sound Passing Talismans floating in the air. There were also dozens of exhausted Sound Passing Talismans on the ground. These years, Lin Jiang had always known that someone was sending him Sound Passing Talismans, but he never paid any attention to them.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    He casually grabbed a few to look at, most of which were sent by Taoist Yusong from Eagle Ridge. The tone from the Sound Passing Talisman showed that Yusong was bing more and more impatient.

    "I hope I don''t bother you, and you don''t bother me either."

    Lin Jiang threw away all the Sound Passing Talismans, not wanting to pay attention to these people. He always kept a distance from trouble. The water here was too deep. If it weren''t for his attachment to those spiritual medicines, Lin Jiang would have already run away.

    After leaving the cave, Lin Jiang flew directly to Yunzhong City to trade at themerce hall. He had dealt with most of the shady things in his possession. Now, the things he had were the spiritual medicines produced in the cave and the spiritual talismans he drew in his spare time.

    In these thirty years, Lin Jiang''s skill in drawing talismans hadn''t improved much. It was simr to before, just a bit more familiar with the runes, but there were no major breakthroughs.

    "Taoist friend, this is your spirit stone."

    One hourter, Lin Jiang left with thirty thousand spirit stones. Only five thousand were from selling talismans, the main profit came from the spiritual medicines. With this cave from Sun Man, Lin Jiang had already earned fifty to sixty thousand spirit stones. Finally, it wasn''t a loss.

    "I haven''t tasted meat in thirty years. Ah, I haven''t had a heart-to-heart talk with the little fairy in thirty years. It''s so lonely."

    Lin Jiang, holding the spirit stones, immediately had a surge of thoughts and desires. After thirty years of seclusion, even Big Shadiao looked handsome and charming. He couldn''t bear it.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "I have been harmed by alcohol and lust, and I am so weary. From this day on, I shall quit indulging in pleasure, no, I shall quit drinking."

    After three ridiculous days at Baihua Tower, Lin Jiang deeply regrets his actions and makes up his mind to quit drinking. Strong liquor harms the body, after all.

    Carrying a sense of shame, Lin Jiang leaves Yunzhong City and heads towards Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    "Halt, stranger! This is the territory of Cangying Ridge."

    As Lin Jiang is nearing home, a loud shout is heard, followed by the appearance of about ten cultivators. The leader is in the early stage of Building Foundation, while the rest are in the Qi Refining Period.

    Lin Jiang''s mood instantly turns sour, and he coldly asks, "Who are you people? How dare you stop me?"

    "Who is this taoist friend, and why have theye here?"

    The person nces at Lin Jiang and arrogantly asks.

    "Call Yusong out, you''re not qualified to know who I am."

    Lin Jiang got very angry, but then he suddenly remembered that he hadn''t been outside for thirty years. It was normal for Yusong''s subordinates not to recognize him. It seemed that the intimidation from when he killed Zhou Yunyang had faded away. Not many people knew about it anymore.

    "How dare you call our leader by name!"

    "Our leader''s name is not something you can call directly. Put down the storage bag ande over here to meet your death."

    "The cave ten miles ahead belongs to me."

    "What do you mean yours and mine? Put down the storage bag and you can leave. Our people will arrive soon, and you''ll be doomed then."

    Facing the continuous insults from the cultivators, Lin Jiang felt very frustrated. What was wrong with these little Kmi cats? Couldn''t they see that he was at the mid-level of Building foundation? Who gave them the courage to speak like this? Was it Leung Jingru?

    Since the other party was being impolite, Lin Jiang decided to return the favor. He summoned his flying sword and aimed directly at the independent cultivator at the early stage of Building foundation.

    "How dare you attack! Form a formation, attack!"

    "Plop"

    The man had barely finished speaking, when his flying sword was cut off by Lin Jiang, and then the sword ruthlessly sliced through his neck.

    "Martial Uncle"

    "Martial Uncle"

    A group of lower level cultivators were terrified, but Lin Jiang was merciless. One by one, he killed them all, controlling his flying sword to continue cutting down those Qi Refining Period cultivators.

    "Run quickly"

    "Help me!"

    Several Qi Refining Period cultivators scattered in panic, but Lin Jiang killed two of them and captured another.

    "Senior, spare me, spare me!"

    The frightened man begged for mercy, but Lin Jiang ignored him and took away the group''s bag. He carried the captive and quickly left.

    Just as they arrived at the cave, several cultivators approached. Someone shouted, "Lin, release the person immediately, or else you''ll regret it!"

    "Tell them what just happened, but don''t exaggerate. Tell the truth."

    Lin Jiang gently tapped the captive with his flying sword. He didn''t want to argue much, and the captive dared not refuse. He truthfully exined everything.

    "Dear Taoist friend, even if we were wrong, it was just a sh with you. It''s not a deadly offense. Your actions are just as ruthless as those of the evil cultivators."

    "Is that so?"

    Lin Jiang sneered. When did the rules of Yunzhong Mountain Range be so gentle? In the past, stopping others in the middle of the road was a very dangerous move, often seen as an aggressive attack. The words they spoke were extremely arrogant, even more provocative than provocation itself.

    "Isn''t it true? Killing someone over a few words, dear Taoist friend, you are too domineering."

    "Senior brother, there''s no need to waste time with him. Call someone over, break into this cave, and avenge our fellow disciple Chen by killing him."

    "Go inform the chief of the vige."

    The leader of the Building Foundation Period shook his head, but didn''t immediately take action. Apparently, he knew about Lin Jiang''s presence but pretended not to, and wanted to escte the situation.

    Lin Jiang remained calm andposed, watching them hesitate. He was curious to see how Yusong would handle the situation and whether things would turn hostile. Lin Jiang intended to turn Yusong into a pile of bones.

    After about two hours, independent cultivators from Cangying Ridge started arriving. By the time Yusong arrived, there were already over a hundred people from Cangying Ridge, including thirteen at the Building Foundation Period.

    "Friend Lin, you have finallye out of seclusion."

    "Friend Yusong, we have no conflicts of interest. Why did you send people to block my way home? Is it because Yunzhong City belongs to the Yu surname now?"

    Lin Jiang immediately retaliated by throwing out a major usation. If he dared to ept the challenge, the two major sects would make him pay dearly.

    "Friend Lin, Yunzhong Mountain Range doesn''t belong to anyone. Those people were merely following my orders to patrol the territory. If there''s any misunderstanding, it should be rified instead of resorting to violence. Your inclination towards killing is too strong."

    "Are you saying that every time Ie home, I have to be interrogated by you all?"

    "The misunderstanding is resolved, so things won''t be like this."

    "So, what''s your n?"

    "Taoist Friend Lin should give us an exnation for what happened in Cangying Ridge."

    "Come on, tell us what you have to say."

    "Taoist Friend Lin will leave Yunzhong Mountain Range and nevere back. Let''s drop this matter."

    "Haha, when it alles down to it, you''re interested in my cave."

    Lin Jiangughed. There''s nothing new under the sun. In this vast Yunzhong Mountain Range, someone is blocking his way home. It doesn''t take much to figure out what''s going on. Now the fox''s tail is showing.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, are three lives worth less than your cave?"

    "When did a cultivator''s life be so valuable?"

    "How dare you be so arrogant with just a mid-stage Building foundation? Chief, give the order, destroy this cave and cut off his head."

    "Chief, give the order."

    Hearing Lin Jiang''s words, a fewte-stage Building foundation cultivators by Yusong''s side became furious. Yusong looked outside the cave and saw that the tree poles from before had rotted away and were no longer there.

    "Attack!"

    After thinking for a moment, Yusong finally made up his mind. He waved his hand and ordered his subordinates to attack.

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95

    Before Lin Jiang''s cave in the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    Thirteen independent cultivators at the Building foundation stage each brought a group of Qi Refining Period cultivators. They spread out in thirteen different positions, hundreds of meters apart, andunched an attack on Lin Jiang''s cave.

    The outer formation of Lin Jiang''s cave copsed once again, unable to withstand even ten rounds. In the central area, which was about five or six hundred acres in size, the people from the Cangying Ridge flew into the air andunched their attacks one by one, like a rotating wheel.

    Yusong knew what Lin Jiang''s defensive formation was, but no matter how strong the formation was, it could be broken. It depends on who breaks it.

    At this moment, there were over a hundred of them. Despite the continuous attacks, the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation was able to block their advances, but their spiritual energy was quickly depleting.

    "Yusong, this is your own doing."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I have always been kind to you, but you killed my subordinates, leaving me no choice but to offend you."

    Yusong said that in these thirty years, he didn''t know how many Sound Passing Talismans he had sent to Lin Jiang, but Lin Jiang had never replied. His arrogance had greatly displeased Yusong.

    You see, in these years, the five major forces in the Yunzhong Mountain Range have been expanding continuously, nearly driving away all the truly independent cultivators. Either they had to run away or join the forces. There was no reason to stay alone. Lin Jiang''s independent attitude had already made him very dissatisfied.Another reason Yusong had set his sights on Lin Jiang''s cave was because he learned through inquiries that the previous owner of the cave, Sun Man, had nted high-level spiritual herbs inside. The older the herbs, the more valuable they became. Some of those herbs had been around for hundreds of years and were already a huge fortune.

    And one yearter, it would be the Yunzhong City''s Centennial Celebration. Yusong had already received the news that there would likely be only two Five Elements Golden Fruit Pills avable this time. Each major sect would contribute one pill, which would inevitably lead to fiercepetition.

    Based on previous prices, the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pills could be auctioned for over a million, including auction fees, auxiliary elixirs, and renting the T-shaped cave in the northern part of Yunzhong City. He would need to prepare nearly two million spirit stones.

    Two million spirit stones is an astronomical number for anyone in the Building Foundation Period. Even if Yusong prepared for it for decades, it is still not enough. So, this year will be the craziest year for many Building Foundation experts in the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    "Tonight, my doorstep will definitely be very bright."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He also thought of the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. Thest Centennial Celebration was when he was 105 years old, which is next year. It will be a new year of Centennial Celebration, so Yusong''s craziness can be exined.

    "Go, One Sword Flying Immortal."

    Lin Jiang decisively made a move towards Yusong, killing him. The others were just a group of people without unity.

    "Hmph."

    Yusong coldly snorted. A gem appeared above his head, and the gem emitted a golden light that enveloped him. Lin Jiang''s flying sword collided with the golden light and was instantly bounced away.

    "Is Taoist Friend Lin only capable of this?"

    "Just testing the waters."

    "Come again"

    Lin Jiang''s first move was just a test, and Yusong also didn''t use his full strength. In the next move, Lin Jiang unleashed the Explosive Element Technique. With a sword in the air, a crack appeared on the bead above Yusong''s head.

    "superb quality spiritual weapon"

    Yusong''s expression changed. He realized that Lin Jiang''s spirit weapon was extraordinary and had also unleashed a secret technique.

    "Come on, Yusong"

    Lin Jiang sneered and continued to attack. Yusong also summoned a flying sword to fight against Lin Jiang''s sword. The two fought evenly, but Yusong''s sword was clearly of lesser quality.

    "Let''s attack together"

    Yusong called for help directly. Threete-stage Building Foundation cultivators came out to help Yusong block Lin Jiang''s flying sword. Yusong took back his sword and looked at it, finding several notches on it, which made him extremely heartbroken. It had been his treasured sword for decades.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    On Lin Jiang''s side, things weren''t going well either. If he didn''t use the Explosive Element Technique, he wouldn''t stand a chance against these people. Evente-stage Building Foundation cultivators could suppress him. But the Explosive Element Technique also had its limits. In just this moment, he had already used up five hundred years of lifespan.

    "Come on, let''s have a good fight."

    Lin Jiang clenched his teeth and walked straight out of the protective range of the cave formation. Yusong''s eyes lit up at this sight. Wasn''t this seeking death? Within the formation, he couldn''t do anything, but outside the formation, any of the Building Foundation Late Stage cultivators around Lin Jiang could easily deal with him.

    "Big Shadiao,e forth!"

    Lin Jiang released Big Shadiao directly, a formidable creature.

    "Ying..."

    As Big Shadiao emerged from the Spirit Beast Bag, it immediately soared into the air, emitting a piercing and shrill cry. Many Qi Refining Period cultivators covered their ears and screamed in agony.

    Yusong''s smile instantly froze, and the faces of the Building Foundation Late Stage cultivators around him turned pale.

    "Third rank..."

    "Third rank beast pet."

    Someone shouted in surprise, how could a Building Foundation cultivator possibly have a third-tier beast pet? Even the core disciples of major sects hardly have one.

    "Get rid of them."

    Lin Jiangmanded Big Shadiao, and it responded directly with action. Its wings pped, and dozens of wind des appeared, sweeping towards the crowd. This was a new ability that Big Shadiao gained after advancing to the third tier.

    "*Sound effect, "Puh"*"

    "*Sound effect, "Ah"*"

    "My hand!"

    "Help me!"

    The wind des swept through the crowd. Those in the Building Foundation Period could still resist to some extent, but those in the Qi Refining Period suffered heavy casualties. Some had their limbs torn off by the wind des, while others fell silent forever.

    "Friend Lin, it''s a misunderstanding, it''s all a misunderstanding."

    "Forget the misunderstanding,e and get me, Big Shadiao, fight him."

    Lin Jiang roared angrily, so you''re bullying the weak and afraid of the strong, if you can''t win you just misunderstand, that''s not how things work, you''ve said enough.

    Big Shadiao understood, immediately pping its wings, creating more wind des. The remaining Qi Refining Period was running away frantically, while Yusong was desperately trying to block the wind des.

    Each wind de had the strength of theter stages of the Building foundation, it wouldn''t be difficult to block a few, but the problem was that there were too many.

    "Ying..."

    Big Shadiaounched an attack, its speed was several times faster than when it was at the second stage. Once it started diving, it couldn''t be seen with the naked eye, even scanning with divine consciousness only revealed a streak of light.

    "Puh"

    Ate-stage Building foundation was directly crushed into pieces, bursting into four or five fragments. Big Shadiao''s sharp ws were even sharper than a top-grade spiritual weapon.

    "Retreat"

    Yusong shouted loudly and immediately flew away on his sword. If they were prepared, they could still fight against a third-level monster. But in this unexpected battle, they had no hope at all.

    "Big Shadiao, chase after Yusong and don''t leave any survivors."

    Lin Jiang coldly gave the order. In terms of speed, even ten Yusongsbined were no match for Big Shadiao.

    Big Shadiao left, leaving only twote-stage Building foundation cultivators. They exchanged a nce and decided not to run, but instead came directly towards Lin Jiang, with fierce determination.

    They finally understood that if it was any other beast pet, they could have escaped. But this was an Aurora falcon, known for its speed. It was impossible to outrun it. It would be better to capture the leader first and defeat Lin Jiang for a greater chance of victory.

    "I knew you woulde back. Watch this move!"

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly, surpassing the fierce independent cultivators from the north. Lin Jiang was well-prepared and took out a stack of spiritual talismans. He activated them one by one, twenty in total.

    The low-grade spiritual talismans of the second level could not deliver a deadly blow, but their threat should not be underestimated, especially since there were so many. The two cultivators immediately shifted from attacking to defending, each summoning a protective shield and desperately channeling their spiritual energy.

    Amidst the dazzling onught of spiritual talisman attacks, Lin Jiang seized the opportunity to unleash a flying sword. With the support of the Explosive Element Technique, he shattered the opponent''s shield with one strike. But the person had disappeared.

    "Die!"

    The other person appeared beside Lin Jiang, and in terms of battle awareness, he was much stronger than Lin Jiang.

    "Boom"

    A sword stabbed Lin Jiang''s neck, but a red light blocked the attack. The superb quality robe had a powerful defense. The cksmith previously told Lin Jiang that theoretically, this robe could withstand three full power attacks from someone with an initial golden core.

    "Thunder Talisman"

    Lin Jiang quickly used the Thunder Talisman, and a loud thunder struck the person''s chest, sending him flying backwards.

    Taking advantage of Lin Jiang''s weakened state, another person flew in with a sword, blocking Lin Jiang from pursuing.

    "Are you okay?"

    "I''m fine. I encountered someone wealthy with two superb quality spiritual weapons."

    The injured person shook his head sadly. For independent cultivators like them, the scariest thing is encountering yers who spend a lot of money. It''s very difficult to break the superb quality armor of these two powerful spiritual weapons.

    "Don''t measure my pocket money with your family''s wealth."

    Lin Jiang immediately showed off and took out a shield from his storage bag. It''s also a superb quality spiritual weapon. When ites to equipment, he wants aplete set.

    The two looked at each other and started feeling reluctant. They nced over at Yusong, who was still battling fiercely. Even though Yusong had achieved a strong foundation, it seemed like he could only hold on for a little longer.

    "Attack!"

    The two shouted at the same time and their flying swords soared in the air. But they quickly retreated, running away instead of fighting. It''s not shameful to retreat when you can''t win. It would be foolish to stubbornly persist.

    "Where do you think you''re going?"

    The two''s flying swords had already surpassed their telepathic control range and fell to the ground. Lin Jiang didn''t want to let them go, so he chased after one of them and wildly threw spiritual talismans, stopping him in his tracks.

    "Mr. Lin, don''t push it too far. If you keep chasing, you''ll provoke a big fight."

    "Joke, let''s see how you handle a difficult situation."

    "Let''s give it all we''ve got."

    The person clenched their teeth, took out a ck pill, squeezed it, and a ck mist sprayed out from the pill. The person performed a spell and a gust of wind blew the mist towards Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang realized it was poisonous and immediately cast a spell to escape. Meanwhile, the person and Lin Jiang had already created a significant distance between them.

    "Little Shadiao, go!"

    Lin Jiang had no choice but to summon his second Aurora falcon. By now, the people from the Hawk Ridge were nowhere in sight. Who cared about some nonsense vige leader? What mattered was their own lives. They would have already vanished without a trace if they could grow four legs to run.

    "Brother, brother..."

    Just then, Big Shadiao returned, carrying Yusong. He wasn''t dead yet, but he was close. He had no good piece of flesh left on his body.

    "Spare me, spare me..."

    "Granting you mercy"

    Yusong still wanted to beg for mercy, but Lin Jiang ended his suffering. In consideration of his final plea, Lin Jiang decided to arrange a shorter streetmp for him.

    Soon, Small Shadiao returned too, even fiercer. It killed bothte-stage Building foundations, using its ws to grab one each, impressing Lin Jiang.

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96

    Yunzhong Mountain Range, a certain peak

    Five figures arrived almost simultaneously. If seen by an independent cultivator in the mountains, they would recognize their identities. They are Zheng Zhan and Zheng Qin, brothers from ck Water Pool, Chen Xuan from Medicine Immortal Valley, Ma Ping from Songmao Mountain, and Fu Tao from Baiyugang.

    However, ordinary independent cultivators would never expect them to meet, because in the past thirty years, along with Yusong from Cangying Ridge, these five families have had constant friction. Although there has never been a full-scale battle, small-scale conflicts have never been few. On the surface, it appears that there is significant animosity between them.

    "Yusong has fallen."

    "I understand. The bodies have all been hanged up, along with a few of his close subordinates. Cangying Ridge has almost beenpletely wiped out."

    "No one expected that, after all these years of searching, the Yunzhong Mountain Range would still have such arge alligator."

    "Do you know anything about the person surnamed Lin?"

    "I''ve never heard of him before. All I know is that he has been building foundations for over forty years and is a Talisman Maker. He once killed Zhou Yunyang and his gang and hung their bodies on tree poles. That''s why Yusong hasn''t touched him for many years."

    Chen Xuan shook his head. They knew very little about Lin Jiang''s whereabouts because they were very reclusive and rarely interacted with others."Let''s discuss what to do."

    "You can''t touch him. He has a third-tier beast pet."

    "If our four families join forces, we might have a chance."

    "Hehe."

    Ma Ping''s words made the other four peopleugh coldly. If the four families join forces and gather dozens of Building foundation experts, they might be able to defeat the third-tier beast pet, but there will be casualties. Who will end up dead then?

    "The person with a three-level beast pet, who knows what kind of support they have. Since this person keeps to themselves, let''s just pretend we didn''t see them."

    "He doesn''t provoke us, so let''s not provoke them either. The Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City is just a few months away, let''s not mess up the big event."

    Zheng Zhan said, he didn''t want any idents to happen. Over the past thirty years, they have eliminated the wealthy independent cultivators under their respectivemands through continuous friction.

    When people die, their wealth gets transferred. Eventually, most of the wealth ends up in their hands. They have almost saved enough spirit stones, and he just wants to hold on until the grand celebration and buy advanced pill-making treasures.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "I agree too. To be honest, if he wants my Medicine Immortal Valley, I will give it to him. It''s a good opportunity to get rid of those useless people."

    Chen Xuan said, over the years, they have done a lot to portray a positive image and recruited many subordinates. Now that their objective is about to be achieved, it''s time to get rid of these people.

    "Let''s not provoke the Lin family, I also agree on that. But what about the territory of Cangying Ridge?"

    "Let''s split it. There are still a few months left, and Yusong''s subordinates can still yield some benefits."

    "That works, let''s do it this way."

    Several people agreed one after another, no one would dislike having more spirit stones. They would split them among themselves, ande up with a n to squeeze out all of Yusong''s subordinates. It would be a little extra supply for their cultivation journey.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Next time, don''t do this again. I''m a bit scared."

    Lin Jiang looked at the piles of spirit stones in front of him, feeling a bit scared. After killing Yusong and his group, Lin Jiang found nearly 700,000 spirit stones from their storage bags, filling half of a room directly.

    And this is not even the most valuable part. Yusong wanted to buy the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill, which required precious treasures as well. There were five fourth-grade spiritual medicines, six third-grade Demon Cores that Lin Jiang didn''t recognize, a pile of precious minerals in a satin box, some unknown pills, and other items. Lin Jiang conservatively estimated the total value to be over 1.5 million spirit stones.

    This fortune was enough to make an ordinary independent cultivator faint, even Lin Jiang felt a bit frightened.

    Of course, Lin Jiang wasn''t afraid of having too much money, but rather that it wasing too easily. Lin Jiang always believed in a saying: a person cannot earn wealth beyond their understanding, and even if they do, they can easily lose it.

    Now Lin Jiang feels that this money is more wealth than he ever imagined. It''s not the kind of money an ordinary builder like him should have. Lin Jiang is afraid that he will be obsessed with this quick way of making money.

    Once he bes obsessed, Lin Jiang won''t be able to control himself and will start attacking and looting, even resorting to violence to get everything he wants.

    This is an impossible path, because you cannot guarantee that every person you attack is weaker than you, just like Yusong. In his eyes, Lin Jiang is just at the middle stage of building foundation, while he has already reached theplete stage of building foundation. With a few helpers at theter stage of building foundation, he shouldn''t lose. But now, they are hanging streetmps.

    Lin Jiang also cannot guarantee whether the targets he chooses are truly weak or pretending to be strong.

    "When ites to plundering, you may seed 99 times, but if you lose once, everything is gone. I have plenty of time to umte wealth. Remember, don''t be greedy and don''t do things just for quick money."

    Lin Jiang repeatedly reminded himself that he is different from others. Others don''t have time to umte wealth, but he does. When the timees, he will have everything he needs.

    Quietly packing up all his belongings, Lin Jiang called for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. This time, they did a great job and deserve a reward. Yusong''s Demon Core will be left for them.

    "Brother, brother..."

    Big Shadiao swallowed a Demon Core and greeted Lin Jiang warmly. Lin Jiang touched his forehead and decided not to be angry with Shadiao. After all, brothers are brothers, like a father figure. It''s almost the same.

    "Chirp, chirp..."

    Small Shadiao swallowed a Demon Core, rolled its eyes at Lin Jiang, and walked away with an indifferent pace. Its gaze was deep, as if contemting a philosophical question.

    "Oh my, Small Shadiao, what do you mean? You eat and drink everything of mine and you don''t even want to call me ''father''."

    Lin Jiang was very angry when he saw this. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao should know around thirty or forty words, but Small Shadiao refuses to speak, as if it has never spoken before.

    "Big Shadiao, is your little brother mute?"

    Lin Jiang said to Big Shadiao. He must be mute, or why else would he refuse to call me ''father''?

    "Brother..."

    Big Shadiao seemed to be out of words, as if it couldn''t speak anything else. Lin Jiang waved his hand helplessly and told it to go away and y by itself.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Friend from the Taoist sect, Cloud Sword Sect''s He Shaoyun is visiting, pleasee quickly."

    Seven days after killing Yusong, a figure appeared in front of Lin Jiang''s cave. It spoke politely, but its divine sense forcefully invaded Lin Jiang''s cave.

    "Independent cultivator Lin Wu, meet the senior of Cloud Sword Sect."

    Lin Jiang went outside and greeted respectfully. He knew that what was meant to happen would happen.

    "Lin Wu, do you know that my He family once wanted an independent cultivator who possessed an Aurora falcon?"

    "I have heard about it. Do you think that person is me, senior?"

    "Not sure, so I came to ask. How long have you been in Yunzhong Mountain Range?"

    "Around forty years."

    "How old are you this year?"

    "Eighty-seven."

    "Where did you practice beforeing to Yunzhong Mountain Range?"

    "Roamed far and wide, the area around Tai Shou Mountain, under the Five Elements Sect in Ruiyang Mountain, Anhua City, I''ve stayed there."

    "I have also been to Ruiyang Mountain, so do you know..."

    He Shao Yun immediately followed Lin Jiang''s words and asked about some things near Ruiyang Mountain.

    "Senior is not correct, Ruiyang Mountain stopped epting independent cultivators a long time ago. They have set many tasks, and to join, you need toplete these tasks to earn their Merit Points. I remember that during the Building Foundation Period, it was thirty thousand Merit Points. I haven''t been there in a long time, so I don''t know the current amount."

    Lin Jiang knew that every word He Shao Yun said was a trap, fortunately, he was prepared beforehand and pointed out the errors in He Shao Yun''s words.

    "Taoist Friend Lin is right, I haven''t been there in a long time, I remembered incorrectly. So, Taoist Friend, where did this beast pete from?"

    "They are inherited from my parents. They should be around one hundred and sixty-seven years old. They consider me as their brother, and we have been living together since we were little."

    "Can I take a look?"

    "Sure."

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out the Aurora falcon from the storage bag.

    "Brother, eat, eat..."

    As soon as Big Shadiao came out, it immediately started barking at Lin Jiang. Its huge bird head kept rubbing against Lin Jiang, almost knocking him over. When they were younger, it could only rub against Lin Jiang''s pants.

    He Shaoyun reached out to touch Big Shadiao, but Big Shadiao immediately bristled and made an attacking gesture towards him. It was close to Lin Jiang, but that didn''t mean anyone could pet its fur.

    "Quiet."

    Lin Jiang immediately calmed Big Shadiao down and hugged it, secretly telling it to stop resisting.

    He Shaoyun reached out and ced his hand on Big Shadiao''s body, his spiritual consciousness invading its body. This almost made Big Shadiao explode in anger, but Lin Jiang tried his best to soothe it.

    "Sorry, Taoist Friend Lin. This is a Benefit Spirit Pill, specifically made for refining beast pets. If beast pets eat this Benefit Spirit Pill regrly, they can quickly enhance their spirituality and awaken their wisdom. Consider this as apensation from the He family today."

    He Shaoyun withdrew his hand and took out two pills aspensation.

    He has already checked and found that the lifespan of the Aurora falcon is indeed around 167 years, which proves that Lin Jiang didn''t lie. In addition, other details can also serve as evidence. He Yunwei died nearly a hundred years ago, and the timeline doesn''t match.

    In fact, He Shaoyun has almost forgotten who He Yunwei is. If it weren''t for his elders asionally mentioning it, he wouldn''t even bother about it. Now, he just needs to check it out as part of his routine.

    "Thank you, senior, but I dare not take it."

    "There''s nothing you can''t ept. The He family is not an unreasonable family. Just keep it."

    "Thank you, senior."

    "Raising third-level demonic beasts is very expensive. Even maintaining their cultivation level costs a significant amount each year. If one day you no longer wish to keep them,e to the Cloud Sword Sect and I will give you a satisfactory price to take them."

    He Shaoyun said that third-level beast pets are already very valuable. If Lin Jiang is willing to sell, he would really offer a high price to buy them.

    "These were given by my parents, and I haven''t thought about selling them temporarily. In my eyes, they are not just beast pets, but also family."

    "Understood. I''ll leave now. Come find me if you change your mind."

    He Shaoyun nodded and then flew away immediately, not wanting to be entangled with Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang breathed a sigh of relief. After passing today''s ordeal, the He family''s matter was considered over.

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97

    Yun State, Zhonghang Sect.

    The Sect Master of Zhonghang Sect, along with several Nascent Soul Elders, was apanying Lin Batian, who came as a guest. Especially the thirteenth elder, Ouyang Qing, was extremely enthusiastic towards Lin Batian, because a few years ago, Lin Batian had saved her life.

    At that time, Ouyang Qing was in charge of defending the stronghold of Zhonghang Sect in the northern part of Yunzhong Mountain Range. Unexpectedly, a fourth-stagete period Wolf King targeted them andunched an attack with millions of demonic beasts. In the moment of danger, Lin Batian took action and repelled the Wolf King''s attack. His formidable strength made everyone in Zhonghang Sect admire him.

    After that, Ouyang Qing took the initiative to befriend Lin Batian and invited him to participate in the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City. Lin Batian dly agreed, resulting in the current journey.

    "Then it''s settled. After the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, my Anhua City will establish another stronghold in the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range, neighboring your esteemed sect. By then, our two families will support and watch over each other..."

    Lin Batian and the Sect Master of Zhonghang Sect discussed the matter for a while and finalized the ns. The Lin family of Anhua City was already preparing to venture into the Wilderness in the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    Actually, Anhua City is closer to the Wilderness in the southwest of Yun State. It can be reached within a few thousand miles. Unfortunately, the main cultivation power of Yun State is not in that direction, but rather to the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range. With only the strength of his family, he can''t provoke the Demon King in the southwest, so he can only follow Zhonghang Sect to explore the north.

    The Wilderness stronghold is very important to a power. Arge number of independent cultivators enter the Wilderness to hunt monsters and they need a safe ce for recovery, supplies, and information exchange. The stronghold can provide all of these. For a power, a stronghold is like a treasure trove. If managed well, it is more profitable than farming.

    "Then I will represent Zhonghang Sect and wait in the Wilderness for City Lord Lin''s arrival."The head of Zhonghang Sect nodded. He had already heard from Ouyang Qing about what Lin Batian had done in the Wilderness. With his cultivation at the Nascent Soul stage, he had repelled the attack of ate stage Wolf King, which was truly impressive. Even the sword-crazy disciples from Cloud Sword Sect might not be able to do the same.

    Furthermore, he learned that Lin Batian was only in his 300s in age, making him amazed at his great potential. If Anhua City and Zhonghang Sect were neighboring, he would spare no cost to eliminate Lin Batian, because he posed a threat to Zhonghang Sect''s existence.

    However, Anhua City is too far away from Zhonghang Sect. To make friends instead of conquering, they chose to establish a rtionship. For a major sect like Zhonghang Sect, they were not motivated to expand further. Their goal was to maintain their current status and prevent their strength from declining.

    "City Lord Lin, Zhonghang Sect has organized a banquet for you. Please make sure to attend tonight."

    Lastly, the sect leader said to Lin Batian that he had brought along some of his offspring, many of whom were talented female cultivators with high levels of cultivation. He had already set his eyes on them, hoping that the disciples of Zhonghang Sect could attract them over.

    Lin Batian dly agreed. This time, he brought the most outstanding descendants of the Lin family with him. Besides allowing them to broaden their horizons, he also wanted to see if he could find suitable partners for them.

    The Zhonghang Sect arranged a ce to stay. Lin Batian went back to the ce and said to Lin Die, "Dress nicely tonight, don''t wear in clothes."

    "Father, why does a daughter who practices swordsmanship and values battle dress in bright and colorful clothes?"

    "What else can it be? They are looking for a husband for you."

    "Didn''t you always oppose arranged marriages for us?"

    "Arranged marriages are when parents force you to marry a specific person. It''s called a blind date, do you understand?"

    Lin Batian exined that he didn''t actually want an arranged marriage, it was just a blind date. Please don''t resist it that much.

    "I don''t want a blind date. The disciples of Zhonghang Sect are nothing special."

    "I don''t care. I see many beautiful female disciples of Zhonghang Sect. My daughter, Lin Batian''s daughter, can''t be inferior to them."

    "Then why did you call me if you''re not going to call the heirs of the fourth and fifth generations?"

    Lin Die didn''t say anything. In terms of appearance, she wasn''t the most outstanding. There were many descendants of the Lin family, and the granddaughters and great-granddaughters in theter generations were the ones who were truly beautiful. Who knows how many men were enchanted by them.

    "I''m telling you, there aren''t many people in the Lin family, so of course they need to find them from outside. Do you think they just give them away? What are you thinking?"

    Lin Batian was even more speechless. He still had some use for those beautiful descendants of the Lin family. He had to abduct a few high-quality sons-inw.

    "Are you not afraid that I will run away with someone?"

    "A father knows his daughter best. I know you well, don''t I? Just listen to me. Perform well tonight, and tomorrow I will let you lead a team to go to Yunzhong City. The Centennial Celebration in Yunzhong City is still more than ten days away, but it''s already very lively now."

    Lin Batianughed loudly. How could he not know his own daughter? She had a strong determination, which couldn''t be swayed by an ordinary man. If there really was a top-quality man who appeared, he would be happy to see it happen.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang was leaning on the fence, listening to music. Since he wiped out the main force of the Eagle Ridge in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, his reputation had immediately skyrocketed. The several families from the ck Water Pool didn''te to cause trouble anymore. It was mistakenly believed by the outside world that they were all afraid of Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang''s cave became a forbidden zone for the forces in the area. No one dared to approach within fifty miles of Lin Jiang''s cave.

    Lin Jiang was happy about this. That way, no one would bother him. However, not long after, he made quite a few friends, some of whom were just acquaintances. They enthusiastically made friends with Lin Jiang.

    Poor in the bustling city, no one cares. Rich in the deep mountains, there are distant rtives. Lin Jiang truly experienced this, but he didn''t despise these people much. Seeking profit and avoiding harm is human nature. He himself is also an ordinary person, so he still maintains a superficial rtionship with them.

    "The Yun State Little Overlord they''re talking about, is it rted to the Lin family in Anhua City?"

    Lin Jiang heard many people discussing the Yun State Little Overlord, and it sounded like they were talking about the Lin family.

    "It''s exactly the Lin family patriarch Lin Batian that Taoist Friend Lin mentioned."

    "Is there a story? I want to hear it."

    "It''s about the situation in the north. It''s said that the Lin family is also nning to expand to the north and establish a stronghold there. It''s a big deal for independent cultivators."

    "Please exin in more detail."

    "About three years ago, the Zhonghang Sect''s stronghold in the north was besieged by the mid-stage fourth-order Wolf King. At that time, Wolf King gathered nearly a million demons, densely packed and countless. Zhonghang Sect, led by the thirteen elders headed by Ouyang Qing, defended with three thousand disciples, plus five to six thousand independent cultivators. The battle was evenly matched. Just when the Zhonghang Sect stronghold was in danger, Anhua City''s Lin Batian took action. With his Overlord Spear, he was unbeatable..."

    Someone exined to Lin Jiang what happened in the north. Lin Jiang was still in seclusion at that time, so he naturally didn''t know the situation. But it caused quite a stir. Even the Nascent Soul Elders of the Zhonghang Sect, who were in seclusion, were urgently awakened and prepared to go support them.

    Lin Batian made a great name for himself by defeating the Wolf King at theter stage of the fourth realm. Now, almost everyone in Yun State knows him. He is praised as the Yun State Little Overlord.

    However, for independent cultivators at the lower level, what they care about is establishing a stronghold in the Wilderness, especially a safe one. They prefer strong and reliable strongholds.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, would you like to venture to the north? With your skills, you will surely make a name for yourself."

    "Indeed, Taoist Friend Lin. The north ispletely different from the south. In the south, one can only earn a few spirit stones in a year, but in the north, it''s a different story. Powerful cultivators at the Building Foundation Period can earn tens of thousands of spirit stones in a year."

    "Taoist Friend Linбдбдбд"

    Everyone started suggesting that Lin Jiang should go to the north and talked about the benefits of going there.

    Lin Jiang remained calm on the surface, but he felt speechless inside. These tactics were just like how he fooled Xie Youjia before, only talking about profits and not mentioning risks. People who don''t understand will be taken advantage of.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    After multiple investigations, Lin Jiang already had a rough idea of the situation in the north. They did earn a lot from hunting monsters, but there were also many deaths. Almost every day, a few people would die, even during the Golden Core Period. After ten or eight years, one or two would still die.

    Moreover, the ones earning the most money in the north were actually the sects that established their bases there. The prices of goods in their bases were even more expensive than in Yunzhong City. The majority of the profits went to the sects. If the north really made so much money, the figures from ck Water Pool and Medicine Immortal Valley would not have stayed in Yunzhong Mountain Range.

    Lin Jiang didn''t refuse or agree on the surface, nor did he easily show his attitude. He vaguely brushed them off.

    Seeing Lin Jiang''sck of response, the others didn''t want to pressure him further and changed the topic. They talked about the uing Centennial Celebration. It was only a few days away, and the situation in Yunzhong Mountain Range was bing chaotic. Many independent cultivators were fleeing again.

    Lin Jiang remained silent about this. He had destroyed the Yusong sect in Cangying Ridge, which was why no one dared to disturb him. But in other ces, rivers of blood were flowing. ck Water Pool, Medicine Immortal Valley, Songmao Mountain, and Baiyugang, these four independent cultivator forces were attacking each other, causing countless casualties.

    It wasn''t just them; suddenly, many powerful figures appeared, including some from smaller factions like the viges and towns outside of Yunzhong City. They also got involved.

    In short, ordinary independent cultivators in Yunzhong Mountain Range were like helplessmbs. Anyone coulde and ughter them, plundering their wealth. And one group would be followed by another. Even if this batch of people died, countless independent cultivators would stille in the future.

    This made Lin Jiang feel sad about the fate of independent cultivators, and he had great sympathy for them. But Lin Jiang couldn''t do anything about it, he was just a regr independent cultivator.

    "It''s almost time, let''s go our separate ways."

    Lin Jiang nced at the sky and let everyone disperse. He also had to leave, he couldn''t always hang out in a ce like Baihua Tower. He had to pull himself together.

    This Centennial Celebration was a rare grand event in Yunzhong City, with countless treasures appearing. Lin Jiang also had to take the opportunity to get some, like things to improve his cultivation talent. He thought his cultivation progress was too slow.

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99

    Yunzhong City, North District.

    Lin Jiang and Cao Ying stood in front of a beautiful house. Lin Jiang watched as Cao Ying skillfully deactivated the defensive formation and then they walked inside.

    "Whose house is this? It looks amazing!"

    Lin Jiang examined the house. It was spacious, and the yard was filled with beautiful flowers, giving it a charming aura.

    "It''s mine."

    "Oh, wait, it''s really yours? Are you referring to it literally?"

    "Yes, I bought it."

    "Little Ying, lying is not good, please don''t deceive Uncle."

    Lin Jiang turned around and sternly said to Cao Ying. It''s not good for children to lie."I didn''t lie to you, it''s really something I bought, justst year."

    "Ahem, can you tell Uncle how much you spent on this house and where the money came from?"

    "One million eight hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones."

    "How did you get the money? Did you find a ce to get spirit stones from the sky? Hurry, take Uncle there!"

    Lin Jiang suddenly became uneasy. Where did Cao Ying get so many spirit stones? Even if she robbed a bank, she couldn''t get this much. Could it be that she looted the Zhonghang Sect''s warehouse?

    "Earned, saved."

    "Little Ying, it''s not good to only say half of something. Exin it clearly to me."

    Lin Jiang got angry. This child, always leaving things half-unfinished, it''s like teasing someone''s appetite.

    Uncle, I have a high ie, listen up. In Zhonghang Sect, I am an elder''s personal disciple. In the Qi Refining Period, I receive five thousand spirit stones as a sry every year. In the Building Foundation Period, it''s thirty thousand spirit stones per year, and there are also spiritual pills like True Yuan Pills provided by the sect. With the sect''s distribution of spiritual pills, half of my cultivation expenses are taken care of.

    As for the remaining pills, I have my master''s disciples refine them for me at a low cost. Besides, Fei Peak has its own industries, and I can earn over ten thousand spirit stones from it every year. Now that I''ve reached the Golden Core Period, I can earn thirty thousand spirit stones annually.

    In addition, I also take on missions for the sect and receive rewards. Depending on the mission, I earned five thousand spirit stones per year when I was at Star Gathering Tower before.

    But the most I earned was during the eight years I spent in the Wilderness up north. I made hundreds of thousands of spirit stones in ie every year. I saved and saved, and soon I had too many spirit stones to fit in my storage bag. So I thought of buying a house instead of buying Foundation Establishment treasures.

    "Can one really make that much money in the Wilderness?"

    "No, independent cultivators don''t make money. I make money."

    "Why is that?"

    "Because I have a good master, and my master lets my senior sister protect me, so I can go to ces where others dare not go. Even if I encounter a third-level monster, my senior sister will still save my life. In addition, I hunt demons, collect herbs, and mine for resources at a price that is different from yours. The items that my sect collects from me are priced about 50% higher than yours. Additionally, I get lower prices for resting and buying things in the strongholdpared to you. Amodation is also free. Going back and forth, it''s natural that I can earn more money than you."

    "Sour."

    Lin Jiang clenched his teeth and blurted out two words. Could it be that the end of the universe is really a made-up story? Cao Ying joined the Zhonghang Sect and there are so many benefits. This is too amazing.

    "Uncle, don''t be sour. The treatment I receive is something that others don''t have. Only personal disciples have it. There won''t be more than a hundred personal disciples in the Zhonghang Sect."

    Cao Ying smiled. There are more people sour about her than just her uncle. Almost everyone in the Zhonghang Sect is sour about her, because not everyone has this kind of treatment.

    "Hmm, Uncle, don''t be sour. The richer and stronger you are, the better. I''ll stick with you in the future."

    Lin Jiang said, feeling helpless. He shouldn''t be sour anymore. Look at Cao Ying and then look at himself. He was too proud of his little achievements, living for more than two hundred years is nothingpared to her.

    "Uncle, let''s make a deal. You''re not allowed to run away anymore."

    "I won''t run."

    "If you promise me not to run away anymore, I will give you this house."

    "What is this?"

    Lin Jiang was puzzled. Was his eldest niece really this filial? He felt so embarrassed.

    "You heard right, this house will be yours in the future."

    "Then why do we have to wait? Can''t we do it now?"

    "It''s not that we can''t, I''m just afraid you''ll sell the house and run away."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Cough cough, Uncle is not that kind of person."

    Lin Jiang felt a bit embarrassed. Cao Ying, oh Cao Ying, you really know people well.

    "Uncle, please don''t run away. Stay here, I''ll find a way to help you achieve your goal."

    "Don''t run anymore. You don''t need help. Take care of yourself. If you be strong and better, Uncle will be happy."

    Lin Jiang tried not to smile and spoke seriously. Cao Ying had said "don''t run anymore" at least thirty times that day. It was clear that she was really afraid he would run away again. His absence for thirty years had left a big impact on her.

    Cao Ying asked Lin Jiang to sit down and asked what he had been doing all these years. Lin Jiang felt even more guilty in his heart. He couldn''t bring himself to say that he had been in the Yunzhong Mountain Range and hadn''te to see her. So Lin Jiang changed the subject and asked about Cao Ying''s life in the Zhonghang Sect. Cao Ying happily shared every little detail of her life with Lin Jiang.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Dad, are you sure the person is here?"

    In the northern part of the city, in front of Cao Ying''s house, Lin Die said to Lin Batian.

    "Keeping some tricks with my Spear Talisman, isn''t that normal? As long as he hasn''t sold the Spear Talisman, it''s fine. Knock on the door."

    Lin Batian said. This time, he hade to find the person named Lin Wu that Lin Die had mentioned. ording to Lin Die, that guy should be a member of their Lin family who had been living away from home.

    The Lin family cultivators were not many. After upying Anhua City for decades, they had experienced another major development, but there were only a little over a thousand cultivators. If the person was talented, he would be brought back. If he wasn''t a member of the Lin family, the Spear Talisman had to be taken back, and in return, Lin Batian would offer other treasures. He had put a lot of effort into refining that Spear Talisman. He had only given it to three people in the entire Lin family, so he couldn''t let outsiders have it for cheap.

    "It''s you."

    Cao Ying heard someone knocking at the door, and when she opened it, she was a bit surprised.

    "So it''s Martial Sister Cao."

    Lin Die was also very surprised. They had met before when Lin Batian brought her to attend the wee banquet held by Ouyang Qing. They had seen Cao Ying at the banquet.

    Lin Die had a very strong impression of her, because she knew that Cao Ying was a talented genius highly favored by the Zhonghang Sect. Despite being less than sixty years old, she had already reached the Foundation Establishment stage, which was very impressive.

    "Why is Senior Sister Lin here?"

    "Looking for Lin Wu."

    "Who is Lin Wu?"

    "He lives here."

    "I don''t have a person named Lin Wu."

    "Martial Sister Cao, I won''t make a mistake in finding the right ce."

    Lin Die said, "There is Lin Batian''s mark on the Spear Talisman, I will definitely not make a mistake in finding the right ce."

    "Lin Wuбдбдбд"

    Cao Ying''s thoughts shifted, and she suddenly realized something.

    "I said there is no such person. Senior Sister Lin made a mistake in finding the right ce. It''s fine, let it be."

    "Wait, I have no ill intentions, really. He might be a member of my lost tribe that I and my father are looking for."

    Lin Die knew Cao Ying might misunderstand, and quickly said. Cao Ying saw Lin Batian not far away and felt a bit panicked. She suddenly didn''t know what to do.

    "Little Ying, who is it?"

    At that moment, Lin Jiang heard a noise and came out. He was very surprised to see Lin Die.

    "Hello, Taoist Friend Lin, we meet again."

    "Taoist friend mistook someone else, right?"

    "Your ability to change your appearance is very clever, but I''m not here to bother you. Could you change back to your original appearance?"

    Lin Die said. The person in front of her bears a striking resemnce to Lin Wu, and she won''t make a mistake.

    "My ability to change my appearance still needs improvement. It would be best if I can learn a secret technique that can make my bones shrink."

    Lin Jiang sighed in his heart. His ability to change his appearance could deceive ordinary cultivators, but it was still difficult to fool someone who was determined. He needed to improve for the next time.

    "Senior, what can I do for you?"

    "My father wants to confirm if you are a member of the Lin family."

    "Is it or isn''t it, what''s the difference?"

    "Of course, if you are a member of my Lin family, then you should go home and embrace your roots. A wanderer away from home should have a ce to call home, don''t you think?"

    "Who I am and where Ie from no longer matter. What matters is the present and the future. Whether I have any connection to the Lin family or not, I have no intention of going to Anhua City."

    Lin Jiang said. Right now, he dares not go back. There are too many things to exin.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, don''t worry. It''s true that the men of the Lin family have their faults, but we still care for our rtives. If you are a descendant of the Lin family, even if you don''t want to return home, we will still provide you with some assistance."

    "Cough, cough."

    Upon hearing this, Lin Batian became displeased. What do you mean by saying that the men of the Lin family have many faults? Isn''t he one of them? Is it right to speak ill of your father?

    Lin Jiang finally noticed Lin Batian. After more than a hundred years, he once again saw this dear old father. His emotions were quiteplicated.

    Lin Batian may be his biological father, but Lin Jiang and he were not close. It was the same for the original host as well. In the several decades within the Lin family, Lin Jiang probably didn''t exchange more than five hundred sentences with him. Most of them were just routine questions and answers,cking any father-son bond.

    But Lin Jiang didn''t really me him, after all, he had too many children to take care of. Lin Jiang just felt indifferent about this father-son rtionship. The memories given to him by the Lin family were mostly of Lin Die, Lin Ying, his mother Zhuang Rong, and the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi.

    "I have met City Lord Lin."

    Cao Ying greeted Lin Batian with a bow. Lin Batian had a good rtionship with her master, Ouyang Qing, so the proper etiquette was necessary.

    "Little Friend Cao, there''s no need for too much formality."

    Lin Batian stepped forward, then examined Lin Jiang with his eyes, and finally said, "Judging from your appearance and physique, you seem to be Sixth Brother''s offspring. Is your father named Lin Jiang?"

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100

    North District of Yunzhong City

    Lin Die and Lin Batian stood in the courtyard of Cao Ying''s cave, engaged in a secret conversation.

    "Dad, is this Lin Wu truly Sixth Brother''s child?"

    Lin Die was full of questions. In her impression, Sixth Brother had never married, so where did the childe from?

    "When Sixth Brother left home, he was ny-five years old. He had the Green Rock Pill given by Old Ten, which could extend his life by twenty years. It should be possible. Let''s test his bloodler to find out."

    Lin Batian said. A person in the Qi Refining Period can live to around a hundred. It depends on individual constitution whether it''s slightly less or slightly more than a hundred. When Lin Jiang ate the Green Rock Pill, theoretically, he could definitely live beyond a hundred. Also, considering his identity as a cultivator, it''s not impossible for him to marry a mortal woman. So the probability is still quite high.

    At this moment, Lin Batian recalled Lin Jiang''s life in the Lin family. He admitted that his sixth child was not what he considered an outstanding childzy, yful,cking ambition. His character was ipatible with the upward family style of the Lin family. That''s why he didn''t like him and sent him to the estate in the countryside.

    But his sixth child was indeed a filial child. Lin Batian had many wives and concubines, and he wasn''t good at dealing with trivial matters. So after those wives and concubines grew old and lost their beauty, they were basically relegated to a cold pce. It was Sixth Brother Lin Jiang who provided them with a happy life in their old age and took care of them. Lin Batian was grateful for that.

    It was quite an achievement for Lin Jiang to travel to different ces in his old age, which Lin Batian admired. So at that time, Lin Batian agreed to let him take the Soul Lamp with him."If we calcte it that way, the probability of Lin Wu being Sixth Brother''s child is quite high. They look alike as well. Unfortunately, he doesn''t want to show his true identity. He always disguises himself. Dad, do you want to bring him back home?"

    "Let''s see how the situation goes. If he doesn''t want to, then forget it. He has been away for too long, and he doesn''t have any attachment to the Lin family. But it''s important to confirm that he is indeed a Lin family descendant."

    "Dad, didn''t you say before..."

    "Changed mind not allowed?"

    "Okay, okay, you''re dad, you have the final say, but if he really is Sixth Brother''s child, we can''t treat him unfairly."

    Lin Die was speechless. Changing minds too quickly, she had to fight for some benefits for Sixth Brother''s child. Among many siblings, she was close to Lin Jiang and Lin Ying.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Uncle, you''re really from the Lin family in Anhua City?"

    "Who knows?"

    "Uncle, don''t you know your own parents?"

    "Yes, I do."

    "Then, Uncle..."

    "Let bygones be bygones."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. He really didn''t want to bring up this matter. He was afraid of being exposed. Who knew Lin Batian woulde knocking on his door? It must be because of that spiritual talisman. If only he had known, he wouldn''t have been greedy. Sigh.

    "Uncle..."

    Lin Jiang''s words reached Cao Ying''s ears, but it was a different story to her. In her mind, she envisioned Lin Jiang''s miserable childhood - his father abandoning him and his mother, or perhaps not even having a father at all, relying solely on his mother for his upbringing.

    It made her think of herself as well. Wasn''t she in a simr situation? The memories of her parents had long be blurry.

    "Sniffle, Uncle is so pitiful. No wonder he adopted me back then. He didn''t want me to end up like him."

    In that moment, Cao Ying felt immense pity for Lin Jiang in her heart. He was a pitiful man, and she couldn''t let him suffer anymore. She would be the one to safeguard his remaining years.

    "Uncle, do you want to return to Anhua City and the Lin family?"

    "What? Cao Ying, are you trying to chase me away?"

    Lin Jiang pretended to be shocked and said, Cao Ying immediately got anxious and quickly exined, "No, no, uncle, you''ve misunderstood, I didn''t mean that."

    "It''s okay, Little Ying, that..."

    "No, uncle, please don''t go, I won''t mention it again, I''ll go chase them away."

    "No, no, no, don''t get upset."

    Lin Jiang grabbed Cao Ying and thought, why is this child getting so worked up? I haven''t finished talking yet.

    "Uncle, I really don''t want you to leave."

    "I know, I won''t leave, you see, I wasn''t prepared either, understand? Imagine being alone for decades and suddenly a grandfather appears, would you ept it?"

    "I wouldn''t."

    "That''s exactly it, so you can rx now."

    "Hmm, now I can rx. But the Lin family owes you, don''t foolishly refuse."

    "Sorry, that''s really embarrassing."

    "That''s how it is, Uncle feels sorry, let me say it."

    Cao Ying said, she made up her mind to help her uncle seek justice. The family may not recognize him, but he deservespensation. This is what the Lin family owes him, because they neglected their responsibility.

    "City Lord Lin, we have discussed it. My uncle is willing to undergo a blood test."

    "Thank you very much, Little Friend Cao."

    "City Lord Lin, but we need to agree in advance. If my uncle is not part of your Lin family, you should offer him something in return, aspensation. If he is part of the Lin family, whether he goes back or not is up to him. You can''t force him. But after all these years of owing him, you still need to give him something."

    "Haha, Little Friend Cao, you''re even more domineering than me."

    "So, do you agree or not?"

    "Promise, promise, is that alright?"

    Lin Batianughed. This is really a great deal, we won''t lose out no matter what.

    "Uncle, he agreed."

    "Let''s test it."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Lin Batian hade knocking on the door, there was no escaping now. It was better to confirm his identity and avoid any worries in the future.

    "Take a drop of your blood. The brighter the light on it bes, the closer our bloodlines are."

    Lin Batian took out a tool resembling a ruler. He drew a drop of his own blood first, then Lin Jiang did the same and dropped it on the other end.

    Lin Batian activated his spiritual power, and the two drops of blood were attracted to each other through the tool, merging together in the middle. Soon, the tool began to emit a glow.

    "Is this the blood recognition ceremony of the cultivation world? Can it really be urate?"

    Lin Jiang was a bit doubtful. Can we talk about science, or should we do a paternity test instead?

    "Dad, what''s going on?"

    "No problem, it has been confirmed that he is a descendant of the Lin family. And from the looks of it, he seems to be somewhere between the second and third generation, with a pure bloodline. If we had brought the magical tool, we could have been more precise, but unfortunately, we didn''t bring it."

    Lin Batian said. The magical tool can determine if he is a descendant of the Lin family, but it''s a bit blurry as to which generation he belongs to. He didn''t bring a more precise magical tool.

    "Lin Wu, you are truly the child of Sixth Brother. Hurry and call me ''Third Auntie''."

    "*Cough cough.*"

    "Be quick! Howe you don''t recognize your aunt? Does that mean I, your grandfather, should also refuse to recognize you?"

    Lin Batian, the eldest, was not pleased. He had already tested their bloodline and yet they still didn''t call for help. It was a bit impolite.

    Lin Jiang felt extremely awkward. Third Sister had be Third Auntie, Dad had be Grandpa, so does that mean he was his own dad?

    "Lord Lin, my uncle has been away from home for many years, and it is difficult to ept at first, but blood is blood, it cannot be escaped. Please give my uncle some time."

    Cao Ying stepped in to resolve the situation, pulling Lin Die and giving her a meaningful look, acting all cute.

    "Father, Martial Sister Cao is right. There''s no need to force anything. Blood ties are an unchangeable fact."

    "That jerk doesn''t learn anything good. He only learns the bad things from me."

    Lin Batian shouted angrily. He has many children, so he can''t take care of all of them. But his sixth child is just one person. Wait, hold on, could it be that his sixth child is also sowing his seeds everywhere he goes? That''s why he can''t take care of them either?

    The thought instantly made Lin Batian''s face turn ck. From now on, his children will have wives outside...

    "Father, what''s wrong?"

    "It''s nothing, nothing. I''ll go first."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Lord Lin, um, um..."

    Cao Ying saw Lin Batian trying to slip away and became anxious. Is he not keeping his word? We agreed that he would make amends for what he owes.

    "I haven''t forgotten, I''ve already given you the greatest benefit, little brother. I''ll leave it for you to deal with. I have something to attend to, so I''ll run ahead."

    Lin Batian left a few words and disappeared without a trace. He needed to go home and fix the family''s reputation. In the future, the Lin family''s descendants can have multiple wives and concubines, but they must bring their children back, otherwise there will be too many rtives in Yun State to handle.

    "Senior Sister Lin, what''s the deal with City Lord Lin? Did he really give you the benefit?"

    "He gave a little, a Life Talisman from my father."

    "Ah!"

    Cao Ying eximed. A Life Talisman, that''s truly the biggest benefit. She was favored by Ouyang Qing, but she didn''t receive Ouyang Qing''s Life Talisman.

    "That''s not enough, Lin Wu. From now on, Third Auntie will favor you. Whatever your father didn''t give you, Third Auntie will provide."

    Lin Die confidently dered, "That thing Sixth Brother has, it''s not useful. From now on, Third Auntie will treat you well."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Lin, please don''t do this. I don''t need money."

    Lin Jiang looked at the storage bag in front of him and said to Lin Die. Lin Die''s love is rough. She thinks that as an independent cultivator, Lin Jiang must be in need of money. So, inside the bag, there are all things useful for the Building Foundation Period иC aplete set of equipment, spirit stones, and elixirs, all there.

    "Then what do you need? Third Auntie will buy it for you."

    "For now, I don''t need anything. I have money."

    "Senior Sister Lin, my uncle is really rich. I just asked around, and he has been living well all these years."

    At this moment, Cao Ying walked in, looking very upset. After finding out Lin Jiang''s alias, she inquired about him and learned that Lin Jiang has been staying near Yunzhong City all these years.

    Thirty years, thirty years have passed, and he never came to find her.

    Angry, infuriated!

    Lin Jiang suddenly felt his scalp tingling. Oh no, he forgot about this.

    "Little Ying, actually I''ve been in seclusion all these years, really, I''m not lying to you. If you inquire about it, you''ll definitely find out."

    "Is that so? Then do you have time to go to Spring Coming Tower, Baihua Tower, but no time toe see me?"

    "Wow, you know that too?"

    "Do you think a big establishment like the Yunzhong City brothel can be managed by someone without the support of the two major factions?"

    Cao Ying said with a sour face. The most profitable business in Yunzhong City will definitely have people from the two major factions involved. It''s just that they won''t directly manage the brothel. They will only have shares in it behind the scenes.

    "What''s this, a brothel? Why don''t you learn something else instead of these things?"

    Lin Die exploded upon hearing it. So this is the kind of person the men from the old Lin family are.

    "Don''t hit, don''t hit! I just made a mistake that all men in the world make."

    Lin Die immediately took action, Lin Jiang hurriedly shouted. Oh no, Third Auntie, I mean, sister is hitting brother!

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101

    Yunzhong City

    Lin Die and Cao Ying were shocked to see therge crowd in front of them. They had never experienced the scene of the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration before. This was the first time they had seen so many cultivators, and they were so shocked that their mouths couldn''t close.

    "I''ve attended gatherings of the Zhonghang Sect before, with tens of thousands of people, including the disciples. Compared to this, it''s a huge difference."

    "We had a Centennial Celebration in Anhua City too, and there were over a hundred thousand people who came. We were already too busy back then. How many more people would it take to handle this?"

    Cao Ying and Lin Die expressed their astonishment. They had no idea that there were so many cultivators in the Yun State.

    "Yunzhong City has a poption of about one million people on a daily basis, including the viges outside the city. During the grand celebration, there will be at least seven to eight hundred thousand more people, possibly even surpassing two million."

    Lin Jiang calmly said, having already experienced it once before. However, at that time, Lin Jiang was just as shocked as they were, wondering how the Yun State had so many cultivators.

    "No wonder the Zhonghang Sect is so rich. Just Yunzhong City alone brings in overflowing wealth."

    "Sister Lin, Yunzhong City is not just for our Zhonghang Sect. We don''t have any money."Cao Ying humbly said, but her expression was very proud. Look, this is our Zhonghang Sect''s property. It''s amazing, right?

    "Let''s not talk so much. Let''s go shopping. During the Centennial Celebration, there will be many good things."

    Lin Jiang said, during the big celebration, there will be more people and more merchants, especially street vendors. There will be many interesting things appearing.

    Cao Ying likes to go shopping and buy some food, as well as some things that look pretty but aren''t expensive or practical. But Lin Die doesn''t buy anything at all.

    Because there is nothing she needs on the street. What she needs is all at the high-end auction. She is not a young girl anymore, so she doesn''t care about impractical things.

    "It feels like going back to the old days."

    Lin Die, sitting between the two of them, looked at the lively and cheerful Cao Ying, and the affectionate Lin Jiang. It made her feel like she was back to the first time she went to Anhua City, just like Lin Ying back then.

    "Sister Lin, what are you doing? There are so many people. What if we lose something?"

    "I remember something. In the past, I used to go shopping with my younger brother and sister. In the blink of an eye, more than a hundred years have passed."

    "Senior Sister Lin, we should always look ahead. My uncle told me that we''ll interact with many people in our lifetime, but most of them will leave us. We should get used to these goodbyes."

    "But what if one day your uncle also leaves you?"

    "No, that won''t happen. I won''t let him leave me. If hecks cultivation, I''ll earn money to buy resources for him. If his lifespan is short, I''ll find him a longevity treasure."

    "You are trapped in obsession."

    "Yes, so what? If a person lives without obsession, what''s the difference from being a walking corpse?"

    Cao Ying admitted it directly, that she had obsession. So what? She doesn''t care.

    "I envy you, my eldest nephew."

    "бдбдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang became speechless and didn''t say anything. He didn''t speak because he didn''t want people to know about his embarrassment.

    "Cao Ying, let''s go back to your house."

    "Oh, Senior Sister Lin, are we not going to continue shopping?"

    "There''s something I need to take care of."

    "Oh, okay."

    Cao Ying nodded, and the three of them returned to Cao Ying''s house in the northern part of the city.

    "Lin Wu, have you offended anyone recently?"

    "What do you mean?"

    "Someone was following us just now. It looks like they were specifically watching you."

    Lin Die said that Cao Ying immediately widened her eyes because she didn''t notice someone following.

    "Martial Sister Cao, don''t worry. I am here, and no one can harm him."

    "Senior Sister Lin, quickly tell me where he is."

    Cao Ying suddenly became full of killing intent, and the overflowing hostility shocked Lin Die. This little girl must have killed many people.

    "It should be people from the Dark Night Organization."

    "How did you get involved with people from the Dark Night Organization?"

    "I didn''t provoke them on my own. It''s like this..."

    Lin Jiang exined the situation. He truly didn''t provoke them. Initially, Zhou Yunyang attacked him first, and he only fought back. He just didn''t want to give them the Breaking Array Cone for free.

    "Bring me the Breaking Array Cone."

    "Yes, this is it."

    Lin Jiang gave the Breaking Array Cone to Lin Die, and he was reminded of Cao Yang and Zhang Ruifang. This was the first time he had heard of the Breaking Array Cone, and it was from Cao Yang.

    "I should have guessed the Dark Night Organization''s purpose."

    "Please, tell me, senior sister."

    This Breaking Array Cone is a replica. The real Breaking Array Cone is a super powerful treasure that dates back to ancient times. It is said to be ssified as a quasi-immortal weapon. The Breaking Array Cone is renowned for its ability to break any formation. At that time, no formation could resist its attacks, and it was seen as a great threat by numerous sects.

    Later on, the real Breaking Array Cone disappeared. All subsequent Breaking Array Cones that appeared were replicas. However, the quality of the replicas declined with each generation. The method of crafting the Breaking Array Cone has been lost, and Lin Wu''s Breaking Array Cone is one of the very few remaining.

    The Dark Night Organization must have found a master craftsman and wants to use this Breaking Array Cone as a reference to decipher its crafting method and create a more advanced version. With that, any formation will be a piece of cake. For an assassin organization, this is the ultimate weapon.

    The Lin Die exined that the cultivator felt very insecure and had to set up formations wherever they lived. But they felt safe and rxed within their own formations.

    So you can imagine, if the Dark Night Organization had this weapon, it would be a great help to them. But for everyone else, it would be a nightmare.

    "The Dark Night Organization is heartless and deserves to be condemned."

    "That''s right, it''s fortunate that Lin Wu didn''t fall into their hands. If a master craftsman deciphered these techniques, it would be a nightmare for any faction."

    "So what do you want to do?"

    Lin Jiang said, not knowing about this matter. No wonder the other party went to such lengths to deal with him.

    "Leave this to me."

    "Senior Sister Lin, let me handle it. Your power in Anhua City won''t be effective here. My identity is more convenient, and I will exin it to our master."

    "Alright, but they bullied members of my Lin family, so we can''t let it go at that. Lin Wu, tomorrow morning, leave Yunzhong City and return to Yunzhong Mountain Range. I will protect you secretly and lure some of them out. We''ll take the opportunity to eliminate them."

    "Senior Sister Lin, isn''t it too risky? My uncle is only at the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm."

    "Don''t worry, have Lin Wu carry the Spear Talisman on him, not stored in a bag. If he truly encounters danger, the Spear Talisman will automatically activate. Even someone in the early stage of the Nascent Soul realm will struggle to escape death."

    Lin Die said that she knows her father''s abilities very well, and no one in the early stage of the Nascent Soul can be his opponent for now.

    "Lin Die, the Dark Night Organization is very mysterious behind the scenes, and that..."

    "It may be mysterious to you, but for the Lin family, the entire Yun State, only Zhonghang Sect, Cloud Sword Sect, and Five Elements Sect are formidable forces. Other factions are not worth mentioning."

    Lin Die confidently said, making Lin Jiang raise an eyebrow. Has the Lin family be so powerful? Yun State has many medium-level sects with Nascent Soul Ancestors.

    "Since Senior Sister Lin has said so, I can''t back down. I will ask my master for help."

    "Martial Sister Cao, there''s no need to ask Senior Ouyang for help. Let my father handle it. It''s his grandson, so he should lend a hand."

    "But he''s also my uncle."

    "We''ll call in a favor from Senior Ouyang when necessary. This is just a minor matter."

    "Alright, but I''m going tomorrow too. Whoever dares to harm my uncle, I will fight them with all my might."

    Cao Ying said that she thought it made sense. Ouyang Qing wasn''t an ordinary Nascent Soul, she represented the whole Zhonghang Sect in some way.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The next morning of the Centennial Celebration, Lin Jiang left Yunzhong City and headed north. He didn''t sneak away, he left openly and many people''s spiritual senses scanned him, but no one attacked.

    These were just ordinary bandits. The fact that Lin Jiang had killed Yusong and his group had a great deterrent effect. Ordinary independent cultivators wouldn''t dare to attack him. Only the Dark Night Organization was fearless and unyielding.

    Lin Jiang wasn''t moving fast and since no one was attacking him, he suspected whether the Dark Night Organization was following him.

    "Boom"

    Just as Lin Jiang was about to arrive home, he suddenly heard a loud noise behind him.

    "Who''s there?"

    Immediately after, there were angry shouts and the sound of a conflict.

    "Stay in your dwelling, don''te out!"

    Lin Jiang heard Lin Die''s voice in his ear and immediately sped up, rushing into the dwelling.

    Inside the dwelling, there were three defensive formations protecting it. Lin Jiang felt much safer and floated in the air, observing Lin Die''s battle after casting a spell.

    Lin Die wielded her sword with one hand and engaged in a graceful dance ofbat with her opponents. Her fighting style was different from the cultivators near Yunzhong City. In theory, those in the Golden Core Period should focus on swordsmanship, considering that their spiritual awareness expanded to a range of three to five miles.

    "Where is Cao Ying?"

    Lin Jiang went to look for Cao Ying again, but he didn''t see anyone. This made Lin Jiang worried. Something must have happened, right?

    His gaze returned to Lin Die. She had gained the upper hand, her sword movements swift and powerful. Countless sword energy surrounded the enemy, leaving him only able to defend himself in a panic, unable to counterattack.

    "Such domineering swordsmanship!"

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath. Lin Die''s swordsmanship resembled that of the Overlord Spear, still following the path of strength and dominance. It was truly impressive.

    "Boom"

    After more than a hundred moves, the Dark Night assassin''s defense was shattered. A sword strike hit him directly, sending him flying. In mid-air, a giant palm appeared and caught him.

    "Not bad, you didn''t disgrace our Lin family. Go help your friend Cao, she''s being held back."

    Lin Batian appeared and said to Lin Die, "Lin Die, you started with spears butter switched to swords. However, your talent in swordsmanship is obviously better than your spear technique."

    "Yes, Father."

    Lin Die nodded and flew away quickly.

    Lin Batian held the assassin''s hand and sent his divine consciousness into his mind, searching his soul. After a while, he smiled and then threw the person in front of Lin Jiang. He said. Kid, I''m sending him to you. Don''t say that I, from the Lin family, didn''t treat you well.

    Before the words even finished, Lin Batian disappeared. Through the assassin''s memories, he learned about the Dark Night Organization''s base near Yunzhong City. He wanted to take down the base as well. He would protect the Lin family''s offspring. That''s how powerful this grandfather of his was.

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102

    Yunzhong City

    On the third day, Lin Jiang appeared at the auction house in the Star Gathering Tower. He sat in a private box on the top floor and looked down. He noticed that the cultivators below were at least at theter stage of Building Foundation, and their number was very small. This was a high-level auction mainly focused on the Golden Core Period.

    "I didn''t know that there could be so many golden cores."

    Lin Jiang sighed. The auction house had three floors: the main hall on the bottom floor, where there were at least seventy to eighty people with golden cores; the second floor had sixteen private rooms, and Lin Jiang didn''t know how many people were in them; and the third floor had only eight private rooms, and Lin Jiang had no idea how many golden cores were inside. But altogether, there were at least a hundred people.

    But this is just the auction at the Star Gathering Tower. Today, the Duobao Pavilion also has an auction, which is equally high-level. Plus, there are scattered auctions happening in Yunzhong City. There are now at least three hundred people with golden cores, and that doesn''t even include the golden cores guarded by the two major sects.

    "That''s not a lot. We only have a hundred and seventeen golden cores here, including me. It''s still less than Zhonghang Sect."

    "You can also tell me this kind of information?"

    "Uncle is not a stranger."

    "Let''s not talk about it anymore. After all, I am not a disciple of Zhonghang Sect.""Got it, Uncle."

    "Hmm."

    Lin Jiang nodded. At this moment, they were in a three-story private room, the most exclusive type. This room had special formations that even someone at the Nascent Soul stage couldn''t easily probe with their spiritual sense. It provided the best protection for their identities. Lin Jiang was benefiting from Cao Ying''s status, which was granted by her master.

    "Senior Sister Lin is in the number four private room across from us. If Uncle wants to contact her, he can use these formations."

    Cao Ying pointed to a row of formation slots in front of them, saying that they couldmunicate if they wanted to and blockmunication if they didn''t. It was very convenient.

    "Forget it."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. There were many members of the Lin family in private room number four, and he didn''t want to deal with them. Although he knew it was difficult to avoid.

    "If Uncle doesn''t want to go back to the Lin family, he doesn''t have to."

    "I know, no need to say more. The auction is about to start."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Yesterday, Lin Die and Lin Batian helped him deal with the threat of the Dark Night Organization. The entire base of the Dark Night Organization in Yunzhong City waspletely destroyed. Lin Batian alone killed three powerful enemies, and the rest were eliminated by the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect working together.

    However, Lin Batian told Lin Jiang through Lin Die that the Dark Night Organization had support from someone at the Nascent Soul stage. It would be dangerous for him to stay, so he asked Lin Jiang to consider going back to Anhua City. Lin Jiang didn''t give a definite answer.

    "Uncle, what do you want to buy? I can help you buy it."

    "I have my own money, Cao Ying. Don''t always think about me. Uncle doesn''t need you to support me yet, you know."

    "I know, I just want to be good to you, like how you were to me when I was little."

    "My kindness to you doesn''t require you to repay me."

    "Same here."

    "Forget about it, forget about it. Let''s not talk about that. I''m thinking of buying a treasure that can enhance my talents. Do you have any rmendations?"

    "Actually, there is something. Uncle, have you heard of the stic Bone Pill?"

    "No, you tell me."

    "The stic Bone Pill is a sixth-grade high-quality pill. Its function is to help cultivators reshape their roots. This is random and can either improve or worsen. It can be used by anyone below the golden core level."

    "It suits me well."

    Lin Jiang said, knowing his own talent very well. He had no room for improvement and could only get better by reshaping his roots.

    "Hmm, this kind of pill is not suitable for us. There is a high probability that it will only worsen instead of improving. It is only used by people with poor roots. However, it is also quite expensive, so it''s not worth buying. I remember Pill King Li Ruoxu is selling it this time. If Uncle really wants the stic Bone Pill, I can help buy it."

    "I already said, I have my own money."

    "Uncle, don''t resist me like that."

    "Is there anything that can improve the level of Spiritual Roots?"

    Lin Jiang was speechless and changed the topic once again, as it was not appropriate to dwell on such matters.

    "Yes, there is a pill called Spirit Washing Pill. It is a high-grade pill at the seventh level, and it can remove Spiritual Root. For example, it can change a person with two Spiritual Roots into someone with only one Spiritual Root."

    "How much does this Spirit Washing Pill cost?"

    "Even if you have money, you cannot buy it. No one in Yun State can refine this seventh-level high-grade pill. Not even Pill King Li Ruoxu has this ability. Even if someone can refine it, they would not use the materials to make it. If you really want it, you have to go to other states."

    "It''s a pity. My Spiritual Root is very poor. I want to get my hands on this Spirit Washing Pill."

    Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang felt extremely disappointed. He would rather not know this news. If he knew, even if it was very expensive, he could slowly save money.

    "Uncle doesn''t need to worry about the problem of Spiritual Root, but rather the issue of cultivation techniques."

    "What do you mean?"

    "The Spiritual Root is given by nature, and it is a gift from heaven to humans to cultivate. This means that all Spiritual Roots are equal, whether it is a different kind of Spiritual Root, a Heavenly Spiritual Root, or Five Spiritual Roots. The opportunities are the same. One just needs to find a cultivation technique that ispatible with their Spiritual Root in order to have hope of bing an immortal."

    "In reality, a Heavenly Spiritual Root and Five Spiritual Roots arepletely different things. If you have Five Spiritual Roots, you can''t even enter the gates of Zhonghang Sect."

    Lin Jiang didn''t believe in this kind of chicken soup. If things were truly equal, why would there be distinctions between each other?

    "This is also reality. Spiritual Root is equal, but resources are not. Heavenly Spiritual Root cultivates faster in the early stagespared to Five Spiritual Roots, and the rewards are more visible. That''s why the sect prefers Heavenly Spiritual Root. If the time is extended and resources are equal, Five Spiritual Roots may not necessarily be worse."

    "But no one would do that, right?"

    "Right, I forgot to ask. Uncle, what Spiritual Root do you have?"

    "Five Spiritual Roots"

    "Oh, then Uncle''sprehension must be amazing."

    Cao Ying was a bit shocked. In her memory, Lin Jiang was just over a hundred years old, which was considered average for a mid-stage Building foundation cultivator in the Zhonghang Sect. Considering his status as an independent cultivator, having Five Spiritual Roots would be very impressive.

    "It''s just average. I''m currently practicing the middle-grade Sitting Zen ssic of the earth grade, the version created by Cloud Void Master."

    "The middle-grade of the earth grade is supposed to be high-level, but Sitting Zen ssic is special. It has great flexibility, which means itcks unique advantages. It can only be improved based on one''s own situation. Cloud Void Master sessfully cultivated to the Soul Changing Period using this technique, but it may not be suitable for Uncle unless your physique and talents are the same. For Uncle, this technique can only be considered average."

    "This kind of saying exists."

    Lin Jiang frowned, obviously he had never heard of this theory before, and independent cultivators couldn''te into contact with it.

    "Only a master would teach this. None of the insights from the outside world about cultivation would mention it."

    "I envy you a little."

    "Uncle''s matters are my matters. The best technique for Five Spiritual Roots is in the Five Elements Sect. They have many techniques tailored specifically for Five Spiritual Roots. I will find a way to obtain them."

    "I have only heard of this technique. But the Five Elements Sect is strict in their management, and I have never heard of it being circted. It is their core technique. Please don''t act recklessly."

    Lin Jiang quickly said, he had already inquired about techniques. It is true that the Five Elements Sect has many techniques that are suitable for Five Spiritual Roots, but it is said that there are also many requirements. Not all Five Spiritual Roots can practice them. Additionally, the Five Elements Sect strictly controls these few techniques, and I have never heard of them being spread.

    "Uncle, rest assured, our Zhonghang Sect has a good rtionship with the Five Elements Sect."

    "Don''t deceive me. Even with a good rtionship, it is impossible to obtain the core technique. I will handle this matter myself, don''t interfere. I''m telling you seriously."

    Lin Jiang said, when ites to the core interests of the Five Elements Sect, they don''t care who you are. Lin Jiang doesn''t want Cao Ying to give up her bright future for him.

    While they were talking, the auction had already started. There are no ordinary things in the high-level auction; even the simplest item starts at tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    Lin Jiang looked at those things with envy, but he didn''t randomly make a move because he heard about the stic Bone Pill. He decided to obtain the stic Bone Pill, as it was the most important.

    On the other hand, Lin Die conveyed a message to Lin Jiang, asking if he had his eyes on anything. She offered to help him buy it, but Lin Jiang declined and simply said he hadn''t found anything he liked. He didn''t want to owe anyone a favor.

    Four hourster, Lin Die brought the descendants of the Lin family to Lin Jiang''s room, but he had already left.

    "Where''s Lin Wu?"

    "My uncle left first."

    "Can you stop him for me?"

    "Senior Sister Lin, what does my uncle mean? You know, please don''t make things difficult for him."

    Cao Ying shook her head. Lin Jiang clearly didn''t want to see the people from the Lin family. They shouldn''t force him.

    "Sixth Uncle''s attitude is really arrogant. Third Ancestor treats him so well, and yet he still acts all high and mighty."

    "Exactly! It''s just a Building Foundation stage. Does our Lin family really need him at the Building Foundation stage? Inviting him back will only make him bask in the glory of our Lin family."

    "Third Ancestor, let''s not bother with such a person in the future. Who would have thought he would think we were begging him toe back?"

    Several children of the Lin family were immediately unhappy. A mere Building foundation disciple dared to be so arrogant towards Third Ancestor, who was in the Golden Core Period. It was disrespectful to treat someone who had worked so hard for his benefit like this.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "All of you, be quiet! Do you know anything? You, you, and all of you! Your families owe a debt of gratitude to the Sixth Brother. Your fathers, grandfathers, and even your grandmothers were all taken care of by the Sixth Brother in their old age. Just based on this, you should not say such things."

    Lin Die became furious upon hearing these words. He angrily pointed at the few people, who were all descendants of the Fifth and Seventh Elder. And it was the Sixth Brother who took care of their mothers in their old age.

    Some of the Lin family children felt ashamed, while others were unconvinced. Lin Die was both anxious and angry at their reactions. In the end, he decided not to say anything anymore. Those who had not experienced the events from the past would not understand this feeling. The Lin family was weak back then, and the second generation of cultivators were busy with various matters, neglecting their own mothers. Without the Sixth Brother, could those people have had such peace in theirter years?

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103

    Yunzhong City

    On the fifth day of the Centennial Celebration, Lin Jiang followed Lin Batian to the auction house. This was the highest-level auction in the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, jointly hosted by the Cloud Sword Sect and the Zhonghang Sect. It operated by invitation only, and each invitee could only bring a maximum of twopanions.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Die knew that Lin Jiang needed the stic Bone Pill to rebuild his foundation, so he directly took away the spot of another member of the Lin family. This made Lin Jiang feel extremely guilty, knowing that he had offended someone. He realized that he could no longer go back to the Lin family.

    The top auction had very few people, not more than fifty. Everyone casually found a ce to sit down, and a female Nascent Soul from the Cloud Sword Sect served as the auctioneer.

    "In this Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, there''s a new face, Lin Batian from Anhua City, a friend of the Taoist..."

    As soon as the Cloud Sword Sect''s Nascent Soul arrived, she introduced Lin Batian to everyone in the small circle. They were all acquaintances, and it was mostly necessary to be introduced by someone from within the circle. It was difficult for unfamiliar Nascent Souls from other states to enter. Lin Batian was introduced by Ouyang Qing from the Zhonghang Sect.

    Lin Batian''s action of repelling the Wolf King in the northern Wilderness had spread. Many Nascent Souls from the two sects showed goodwill towards Lin Batian. One reason was to acknowledge his strength, and the other was to express gratitude. Lin Batian''s action had resolved the crisis in the two sects'' northern stronghold.

    Lin Jiang saw Wen Xing at the auction. After hitching himself to Li Ruoxu''s thigh, Wen Xing had indeed risen and be a golden core cultivator. He had a female cultivator by his side, who should be Li Ruoxu''s daughter. Her appearance wasn''t particrly remarkable, but she seemed very gentle. Her eyes asionally nced at Wen Xing, and all her attention was on him."Women with love-struck minds are really scary."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He would asionally hear news about Li Xianxian, the daughter of Wen Xing and Li Ruoxu. Wen Xing used to be quite flirtatious, but he has toned down after getting married. However, he still asionally flirts with other women. On the other hand, Li Xianxian is known for having many romantic affairs. Just thinking about their stories, one can easily imagine what''s going on.

    "Do you know Wen Xing?"

    Lin Die noticed Lin Jiang''s gaze drifting towards Li Ruoxu and asked, as she believed that Lin Jiang couldn''t possibly know Li Ruoxu.

    "No, but I''ve heard of him. He''s an exemry independent farmer."

    Lin Jiangughed and replied. Wen Xing has be the role model for independent farmers, or I should say, for men in general. It doesn''t matter if he is promiscuous or has offended numerous people. As long as he canwork well and take advantage of others, that''s even more impressive.

    Many men curse Wen Xing with their words, but secretly, they fantasize about bing the next Wen Xing.

    "I don''t have high hopes for Wen Xing. If Li Xianxian dies before Li Ruoxu, it''s okay. But if Li Ruoxu dies before her, Li Xianxian will suffer greatly."

    "Li Ruoxu is a skilled alchemist. It''s extremely easy for him to make life-prolonging treasures. It''s normal for him to outlive Li Xianxian."

    "We shouldn''t meddle in other people''s affairs. When the timees, don''t make any offers. If there''s something needed, I''ll handle it without drawing too much attention."

    "Good"

    Lin Jiang nodded. As someone in the beginning stage of learning, it was already good for him to be able toe here. Don''t expect to make a big ssh.

    The auction had already begun, but it felt more like a gathering than a typical auction. Besides the organizers offering items for auction, individuals among the attendees could also offer items for auction, with nomission fees.

    "Both of our families'' items have been auctioned off. Now it''s time for personal transactions. Lin Batian, my Taoist friend, this is your first time joining our auction. How about you take the lead?"

    "Sure, I''ll start by throwing this out as a way to get the ball rolling."

    Lin Batian revealed a bloodied w, which caused an uproar among the crowd.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, is that the w of the fourth rank Wolf King?"

    "Absolutely, it''s from the Wolf King north of the Yunzhong Mountain Range."

    "That''s the Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf, a naturally rare species. Impressive, Taoist Friend Lin."

    "Please give your bid now, and save your praise forter."

    Lin Batianughed out loud. He was known for his strength and had shocked the entire crowd by cutting off one of the ws of the powerful Wolf King, a Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf. This level of power was rare even among those in the Nascent Soul stage.

    Lin Batian received several messages and ultimately decided to give the wolf w to a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Cloud Sword Sect. The w, belonging to a fourth stage Wolf King, was perfect for refining. The Cloud Sword Sect was known for their sword cultivation, but they were also adept at refining.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, do you have any items to auction?"

    "Let''s see what treasures our fellow taoist friends have first."

    "Very well, who would like to go next, taoist friend?"

    The Nascent Soul cultivator from the Cloud Sword Sect nodded and looked at the crowd. Seeing no one stepping forward, she turned her gaze towards Ouyang Qing. As Nascent Souls from the two major sects, they were responsible for creating a lively atmosphere and avoiding any awkward silence.

    "Then, I''ll go next. I have a bit of Moonlight Sand, around half a pound. I would like to exchange it for a Spirit Fire Seed. Any taoist friend willing to trade?"

    "The Cloud Sword Sect guarantees the authenticity of the Moonlight Sand."

    After Ouyang Qing finished speaking, the Nascent Soul of the Cloud Sword Sect checked the things from Ouyang Qing''s hand. They can guarantee that if there is a problem, they willpensate. Of course, in general, there will be no problem because if a cultivator buys a fake item, it''s not as simple as returning it for a refund. They will draw their swords at the first sign of trouble.

    "I have a spirit of earth fire, would Ouyang Taoist friend like to exchange?"

    "Do you want the fire of the wood spirit?"

    "Do you want the demon fire extracted from a fourth-order monster?"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Some people spoke up and some transmitted their voices. The scene immediately became lively. Moonlight Sand is an extremely high-end crafting material that has great use when added to treasures. It is almost a necessity for high-level cultivators.

    "Does Taoist friend Ouyang want a spirit fire for attack?"

    Seeing that none of the suggested spirit fires satisfied everyone, Li Ruoxu spoke up.

    "Taoist Friend Li is right."

    "It seems that Taoist Friend Ouyang has set his sights on the Red Lotus Karma Fire in my hands."

    "Taoist Friend Li joked, saying that trading is a mutual agreement."

    "I have had this Red Lotus Karma Fire for 150 years, but I have been unable to refine it. Since Taoist Friend Ouyang is interested, I will fulfill his wish."

    Li Ruoxu thought for a moment and realized that Ouyang Qing should not be the one to refine the spiritual fire. The Red Lotus Karma Fire is an aggressive type of spiritual fire, vtile and unstable, not suitable for alchemy but more suitable for battles.

    The trade waspleted quickly, and soon it was Li Ruoxu''s turn. Li Ruoxu had brought many things with him; he was an alchemist and had many valuable items.

    "Endless Energy Pill, a sixth-grade pill..."

    "Nine Transformations Golden Yuan Pill..."

    "Cleansing Dust Pill..."

    Li Ruoxu took out bottle after bottle of pills, and many people''s eyes widened. These pills were all at least fifth-grade pills, even those at the Nascent Soul stage desperately needed them.

    Everyone quickly started bidding, but this time it was not public. Theymunicated through whispers, and exchanged bottles of pills. Lin Batian also exchanged two different kinds.

    "Dad..."

    Lin Die pulled on Lin Batian''s sleeve, feeling a bit anxious. She hadn''t resolved Lin Jiang''s matter yet, so she didn''t want Lin Batian to finish exchanging.

    "Taoist Friend Li, do you happen to have stic Bone Pills?"

    Finally, Lin Batian asked Li Ruoxu.

    "Yes, do you need them, Taoist Friend Lin?"

    "There are some disappointing junior members in the family. But, there''s always a need to give them a little bit of hope."

    "Taoist Friend Lin''s sincerity is admirable. This stic Bone Pill is a top-quality sixth-grade pill. Have you thought about what you would like to exchange it for?"

    Li Ruoxu said, revealing that he had just finished refining a batch of stic Bone Pills. He had made five, but only sold two in several decades. He almost gave up on them.

    The reason it''s hard to sell is because it''s not suitable for advanced cultivators. Only cultivators below the golden core level can use the stic Bone Pill. This means it''s only useful for younger cultivators with poor aptitude who are liked by powerful elders. There aren''t many people who meet both these requirements, so hardly anyone buys it.

    "I have spirit stones, as well as some third-grade monster materials, and some ores..."

    Lin Jiang quickly told Lin Batian about his capital. He had recognized some of the ores as precious, but he didn''t know if they were considered valuable for the Nascent Soul stage.

    Lin Batian ignored Lin Jiang and instead quoted his own price. Li Ruoxu was very satisfied and agreed immediately, saying, "Taoist Friend Lin''s price, buy two get a little extra, buy three get a little discount. Let''s go with three and be friends."

    "Great! Taoist Friend Li should visit Anhua City when you have free time."

    "Definitely."

    Li Ruoxu said, in fact, the price Lin Batian offered was only enough to buy one pill. The other two pills were basically given as gifts, as he intentionally wanted to get acquainted with Lin Batian.

    Lin Batian''s strength shouldn''t be underestimated. He has gained recognition from many Nascent Soul Ancestors. As an independent cultivator Alchemist, he can be called a Pill King. He relies on his diplomacy skills and avoids making enemies.

    After Li Ruoxu finished, the next person continued. It took half a day for the auction to end. Even after the auction ended, the socializing wasn''t over. Many Nascent Soul Ancestors continued chatting, and the people they brought along each found their own ces to make connections. The Nascent Soul Ancestors brought their juniors to give them a chance to make friends.

    "Little Ying, please give this storage bag to Lin Die. I need to leave for something important."

    "Uncle, why?"

    "No reason. I have some things to buy outside. Remember, if Lin Die doesn''t want it, you must give it to her."

    Lin Jiang said to Cao Ying. This kind of socializing is for the privileged. Lin Jiang doesn''t feel like he belongs. After all, his identity is unclear. Unless he is willing to reveal his true identity, it''s better for him to stay away.

    Inside the storage bag, there is money that Lin Jiang used to buy stic Bone Pills. He doesn''t know the exact value of what Lin Batian gave him, so he also put in 800,000 lower-grade spirit stones and all the precious materials he knows, with a total value of no less than 1.2 million. It should be enough to buy a sixth-grade elixir, after all, the prices of different types of elixirs of the same grade vary.

    After leaving a message, Lin Jiang hurriedly left. Cao Ying watched Lin Jiang''s figure disappear and her good mood vanished instantly.

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104

    Yunzhong City

    The Centennial Celebration has ended, and outside the city is a scene of ughter. No one can solve this kind of situation, even the two powerful sects. They expanded the patrol range of their patrols to thirty miles outside the city, but there are still people robbing travelers fifty miles and even a hundred miles away. Anyway, the majority of participants in the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration are outsiders.

    Lin Jiang returned to his home early. He had spent all his money and bought a lot of things that wouldst him many years.

    "Lin Wu"

    On that day, Lin Jiang was busy in the Spiritual Herb Garden. He heard a noise and got up to open the formation.

    "Elder"

    "Why don''t you want to call me Auntie?"

    Lin Die felt a bit sad. The Lin family treated him well, better than they treated the other Lin family children. Why couldn''t they warm his heart?

    "Elder, I''m busy. What do you need?""Father wants me to ask you onest time if you''re willing to join the Lin family. If you agree, they will give you a family status. With your talents, the family will provide you with opportunities."

    Lin Die said that they had heard about Lin Jiang''s achievements. He was very powerful, able to defeat stronger opponents. He also had a third-ranked demon beast as a protector. When he returned home, he would at least have the position of a steward. The Lin family was still growing and needed various talents, especially from their own family.

    "I don''t want to go."

    "I need a reason. Being an independent cultivator is tough, haven''t you suffered enough?"

    "Life is valuable, but love is even more precious. If it''s for freedom, both can be abandoned. Freedom is more important than anything else. I''m used to being an independent cultivator, I don''t want to be burdened by society anymore."

    "You are being selfish."

    "Perhaps, I am indeed selfish."

    "It''s dangerous for you to stay here. The Dark Night Organization has the support of a Nascent Soul. If we leave, they won''t be able to reach us and harm you."

    Lin Die didn''t dwell on this issue and immediately changed the topic. The Lin family in Anhua City is not afraid of the Dark Night Organization, but they are too far away from Yunzhong City and their strength can''t reach here.

    "If we can''t win, we''ll just run. Look, I''m already prepared."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang pointed to the spiritualnd beside him and said that he had already plucked all the spiritual herbs from there.

    "Where are you going?"

    "As a wanderer, I naturally wander to the ends of the Earth. Have you forgotten why my father left the Lin family?"

    Lin Jiang said. There''s no way around it. I have to admit that I am my father. Otherwise, how else can I find an excuse?

    "You..."

    "I have many immature second-grade spiritual medicines here. It would be a waste to sell them; they are not worth much. I''ll give them all to the Lin family. I''ve already put them in a jade box. You should go back and nt the medicines as soon as possible. They have a high survival rate."

    Lin Jiang said and handed over a storage bag. Immature second-grade spiritual medicines are heavily discounted in value and won''t sell for much. But if you bring them back to the Lin family and grow them until maturity, their value will be different. These hundreds of acres of spiritual medicines are worth tens of thousands of spirit stones at the very least.

    "If you leave, what will happen to Cao Ying? She will go crazy."

    "If I don''t leave, will she not go crazy? Her mental state is a bit off, isn''t it?"

    Lin Jiang was straightforward. When he saw Cao Ying this time, he noticed that her attitude towards him had changed. She had be overly dependent.

    Lin Jiang didn''t know what Cao Ying was thinking, and he couldn''t read minds either. But it was bing very obvious. ording to reason, Lin Jiang should handle this matter properly.

    However, he was just a clueless straight guy with low emotional intelligence and little understanding of psychology. He was afraid of messing things up, so Lin Jiang chose to avoid the situation.

    Running away is shameful, but very helpful.

    "Cao Ying, there are indeed some problems."

    Even outsiders like Lin Die can see it. Cao Ying''s kindness towards Lin Jiang surpasses that of her biological parents, not to mention her uncle in the sense of a foster father. She even openly said that whether it is an obsession or not, it doesn''t matter. This kind of thing can easily form a Heart Demon.

    "I don''t know how to handle these emotional matters. Escaping is the only option I have."

    "Escaping is not a good solution. In Cao Ying''s case, if you were to disappear, she might form a Heart Demon. Her golden core will advance to Nascent Soul, facing the Heavenly Tribtion. If her Dao heart is unstable, it is very dangerous. Cao Ying is an important disciple cultivated by the Zhonghang Sect, and she will definitely ovee the tribtion. You can''t harm her."

    "There''s something like this too?"

    "I have no reason to deceive you."

    "Then what should I do? It''s difficult to stay, and if I really be Cao Ying''s Heart Demon, will the Zhonghang Sect kill me?"

    "It''s possible. If they can make me a new important person in the Zhonghang Sect by defeating you, they would be very happy to do it."

    Lin Die said that she knew well about the nature of the sect. They would do anything for their own benefit, and they treat their own people very well but are cruel to outsiders.

    "So what else can I do besides running?"

    "But you need to give Cao Ying some hope, you have to give her some time."

    "Um..."

    "The sudden change was too much for her to ept. After being taken care of and spending more than ten years with someone who was like family, suddenly being abandoned, most people wouldn''t be able to ept it."

    "You''re right, I didn''t think it through. How about you help me deliver a letter to Cao Ying?"

    "Would it be inconvenient for me?"

    "You are Third Auntie, so what are you afraid of?"

    Lin Jiang nervously said. Third Auntie, what are you afraid of? She''s not some other woman.

    "Alright then, I''ll help you this once."

    "When are you leaving?"

    "It might take around three more days. Dad went to the Cloud Sword Sect topete with the sword cultivators."

    "Compete?"

    "In the world of cultivation, there is no one better in literature and no one stronger in martial arts. Sword cultivators have always been recognized as the most formidable fighters. Dad has gained a lot of attention this time at the Yunzhong Mountain Range, which has made the sword cultivators unhappy. They have long sent a challenge letter."

    "Will anything go wrong?"

    Lin Jiang felt worried. The entire Lin family relies on Lin Batian''s support. If anything were to happen to him, the Lin family would be in trouble.

    "No, you need to believe in the strength of the Lin Family''s patriarch."

    Lin Die was confident about this, as she gradually witnessed the decline of the Lin Family''s second generation,bined with her constant growth, she had alreadye across many of Lin Batian''s secrets.

    "That''s good. Three days should be enough time for me to escape."

    "Where do you want to go in the future?"

    "I don''t know yet. It''s said to be a journey without a specific destination."

    "I truly have nowhere else to go, or perhaps I have incurred a powerful enemy. I cane to the Lin Family."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang said, expressing his gratitude towards the Lin Family. Perhaps it was the same for most powers, being ruthless towards enemies but gentle towards their own people.

    Lin Jiang asked Lin Die to wait for a moment as he entered the room to write a letter. He repeated the process over ten times, finally deciding to lie. In the letter, Lin Jiang told Cao Ying that he had heard about an opportunity somewhere and he needed to search for it. He mentioned that this journey could take anywhere from one to twenty years, but he would definitely return within thirty to fifty years.

    The tone should be light and humorous, and let Cao Ying practice well. After she advances to the Nascent Soul stage, she cane back to rely on her, cling to her thigh, and buy a big house in Yunzhong City to live the life of andlord, collecting rent and so on.

    "People, never lie. If you tell one lie, you have to tell countless lies to cover it up."

    Lin Jiang sighed, tired of the lies in his life. He needed to find a ce to rest and heal, to treat the mental strain.

    Lin Jiang kept the letter, and then looked at the cave he had lived in for decades. Finally, he made up his mind and went to the Spiritual Herb Garden behind the house. He carefully plucked the twelve fourth-level spiritual herbs and put them in a jade box.

    "This is a letter, and these are immature spiritual herbs. Twelve fourth-level spiritual herbs, each with a minimum age of one hundred and fifty years. Please deliver them to Cao Ying for me."

    Lin Jiang handed the items to Lin Die. These fourth-level spiritual herbs were already very valuable. He had invested over one hundred thousand in them, and Sun Man had invested even more. If they fully matured, each herb would be worth at least hundreds of thousands, making them the most precious things Lin Jiang owned.

    "It seems like you''ve made up your mind for real."

    "Almost, but don''t tell Cao Ying in advance, or I won''t be able to escape."

    "Alright, make sure you bring the Spear Talisman with you."

    "Got it, I won''t bother you anymore. I have something else to do, so I won''t entertain you."

    "I''ll give you a gift too. This is the legacy of a beast tamer. I got it from somewhere else, so I don''t need you to keep it."

    "Thank you."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He could copy this kind of knowledge, so he epted it.

    After bidding farewell to Lin Die, Lin Jiang began dismantling the formations in the cave. There was an expensive set called the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation, and another one called the Five Elements Shock Killing Formation. He couldn''t waste them and didn''t want to leave them for those independent cultivators.

    Two dayster, Lin Jiang looked at the now empty cave and flew away without looking back.

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105

    Inside an unknown cave

    Lin Jiangy on the ground, his body twitching in pain. His clothes were soaked with sweat and his teeth were grinding together, but he held back and didn''t scream.

    After some time, the pain eased and Lin Jiang took a deep breath. He struggled to reach into his pocket and grabbed a pill, which he then put in his mouth.

    "In the cultivation world, countless Alchemists have failed to develop an anesthetic. They are all considered garbage."

    Feeling slightly better, Lin Jiang began ranting. In the cultivation world, Alchemists could create pills that could bring the dead back to life or turn bones white, but they still hadn''t invented an anesthetic. It was truly a big failure.

    Three dayster, Lin Jiang was fully healed and he took out a pill called True Spirit Pill. He swallowed it and started practicing cultivation. After ten hours, the pill waspletely absorbed by his body.

    "My talent has improved twice as much as before, thanks to the stic Bone Pill. It really lives up to its reputation."

    With joy in his eyes, Lin Jiang opened his eyes. It was worth the high price he paid to buy the stic Bone Pill. It was worth the excruciating pain he endured to reshape his bones. After using the stic Bone Pill, Lin Jiang''s talent had doubledpared to before.

    From Lin Jiang and Cao Ying''s conversation, he learned that being a genius in the cultivation world depended on three indicators, rather than the two he previously understood.The first indicator is Spiritual Root. ording to the mainstream theory in the cultivation world, it is better to have fewer Spiritual Roots. Having fewer Spiritual Roots means that less spiritual energy is needed for cultivation, which leads to faster progress. The second indicator is Comprehension. Some martial arts or secret techniques can be easily understood by people with highprehension, while those with lowprehension may struggle even after reading them many times. The difference between them is quite significant.

    The third indicator is Bone Quality, which refers to the physical fitness. For example, if two people take the same medicine, one person''s body may absorb 70% of its efficacy while another person can only absorb 30%. Naturally, the one with better absorption has higher talent. Such cases are not rare among ordinary people as well. Even with the same food, some people be strong after eating it, while others remain weak. This is the difference in bone quality.

    "I don''t understand how the stic Bone Pill works, but the regr people, especially the poor ones, don''t know anything about it. The poor people are really isted."

    Lin Jiang sighed again, thinking about how hard life is for the poor people. They face difficulties in every aspect of life and can never seed unless they try their best. Otherwise, they can only hope for the next generation to have better opportunities.

    "Do we need to use the remaining stic Bone Pills?"

    Lin Jiang considered whether he should endure the hardships again for a second or third time. Cao Ying had mentioned that the stic Bone Pill might not always have a positive effect and could even be harmful. So, those with good talents would definitely not take it. It was intended for those who were not as talented.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Yuntuo River originates deep in the Wilderness of Yun State in the west, and it stretches from east to west for an unknown distance. However, it is known to be several hundred thousand miles long within the territory of the human race.

    Over this long distance, numerous tributaries join the Yuntuo River. The Cang River is thergest tributary, and at the confluence of the Cang River and Yuntuo River, there is a city called Cang City, known as a cultivation city.

    Cang City was established by the Five Elements Sect, one of the three powerful sects in Yun State. The Five Elements Sect owns all the rights and shares of Cang City.

    Cang City is also known as Medicine City because it is thergest hub for medicinal herbs in all of Yun State. This is all thanks to the Five Elements Sect, which has the best Spiritual Farmers, the best spiritual veins, and spiritualnds in Yun State. They earn a lot of money by selling spiritual medicines.

    "The medicine in Medicine City is truly remarkable. The variety of medicinal ingredients is unmatched, evenpared to Yunzhong City, thergest city in Yun State. However, the water is a bit deep. If someone who doesn''t understand enters, their bones will be swallowed."

    Lin Jiang stayed in Medicine City for several days and gained some understanding of the city. He learned just how deep the water of the medicine in Medicine City was.

    First of all, there is hardly any fake medicine in Medicine City because the Five Elements Sect doesn''t allow it. If anyone is found selling fake medicine, they are immediately executed, and their family may also suffer.

    However, no fake medicine doesn''t mean there are no problems. The first problem is that some of the medicine in Medicine City is of inferior quality. Nearly all of the medicine is grown by Spiritual Farmers. In theory, the medicine grown in gardens is the same as those found in the wild, with no difference.

    However, some people resort to cheating. They use special methods to elerate the growth of the medicine. In just one year, they can make the medicine appear to be two or even three years older. But even though the age of the medicine increases, its effectiveness doesn''t. It is really difficult to distinguish unless someone is a skilled Alchemist.

    Another problem is the substitution of simr nts. The conditions for the survival of some medicinal herbs are extremely specific. Creating a Spiritual Herb Garden that can simte their natural environment is very expensive. So, some people use variants or sub-species as substitutes. The medicinal properties may seem simr, but even the slightest difference can be deadly.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    These are just the basic tricks that Lin Jiang hase to understand. There are even more sophisticated tricks that cannot be easily thwarted. Only with guidance from professionals can one dare to enter this line of work; otherwise, it would be a huge mistake.

    "Of course, those who cannot rise to the top are always in the minority. If you can figure out the tricks here, there is definitely money to be made, especially if you get into wholesale. It''s sheer profit!"

    Thoughts ran through Lin Jiang''s mind. If everything in Medicine City were low-quality goods, it would never have gained its reputation today. In the end, all these tricks are carried out by just a handful of people.

    Unfortunately, Lin Jiang didn''t have much talent for doing business, and he didn''t have a sharp mind like a clever person. And his goals were not focused on this.

    Lin Jiang came to Medicine City primarily to learn martial arts. The Five Elements Sect in the Yun State was the only sect that trained personal disciples based on their Five Spiritual Roots, as they had martial arts that were perfectly suited for those roots.

    б╢Five Spirit Manualб╖

    The Decision of Unity

    б╢Hunyuan Treasure Bookб╖

    These three martial arts were the Five Elemental Martial Arts that Lin Jiang had already inquired about. However, these three martial arts were all highly secret and core martial arts of the Five Elements Sect, not meant to be shared with outsiders.

    Martial arts like these are never recorded in written form within the sect. Things like jade scrolls or simr items should not even be expected. The teachings are only passed down orally, and sometimes through special methods of transmission.

    Even if a disciple is captured by an enemy and subjected to soul searching techniques, it would be useless. At that time, they would only obtain fragments of the martial arts that they could see but not practice. It''s like having martial arts techniques without the corresponding inner techniques. What use is it without the right mindset?

    After half a month in Medicine City, Lin Jiang rented a set of residence buildings. The front shop and backyardbined had an area of over three hundred square meters. The annual rental price was six thousand spirit stones, and the location was quite good, better than the housing prices in Yunzhong City.

    The shop in front, owned by Lin Jiang, was sozy that he didn''t bother with the renovation. He just did a quick cleaning and set up shelves to disy his spiritual talismans for sale.

    This time, during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, Lin Jiang collected more than fifty types of second-tier spiritual talismans. He had enough to study for a long time. So far, he had already collected all themonly used second-tier talismans. He didn''t even bother with the asional obscure or special ones.

    With the opening of his new store and no familiar faces to support him, Lin Jiang naturally didn''t have much business. But he wasn''t in a hurry. He hired a man and a woman, both at the Qi Refining stage, to be his assistants. The woman was in charge of sales, while the man took care of bookkeeping and errands. They were both paid ten spirit stones per month, with amodation provided but food not included. They lived in the storage room behind the shop.

    This treatment was much better than other shops because Lin Jiang hired people based on the wage rate in Yunzhong City. The wage rate in Medicine City was lower, but Lin Jiang didn''t mind.

    Lin Jiang''s focus was still on cultivation and drawing talismans. asionally, he would go out for a walk, but he mostly kept to himself.

    As time went by, Lin Jiang''s spiritual talismans slowly gained poprity and business in the shop improved significantly. He would not be left with empty hands.

    The neighbors in the surrounding streets gradually became familiar with Lin Jiang, and he began to blend into the life of Medicine City.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Brother Lin Hua, you finally came!"

    Three yearster, in a house in the south of Medicine City, Lin Jiang walked in and a big man warmly greeted him.

    "Brother Zhong, am Ite? Has the banquet started?"

    "No, we''ve been waiting for you."

    The big man had a big smile on his face. Today was a special day for his Zhong family, as his son was getting married.

    "Haha, that''s good, that''s good."

    "Brother Lin Hua, please take a seat."

    The big man led Lin Jiang to arge round table. There were already several independent cultivators of the Building Foundation Period sitting here, all familiar faces. Lin Jiang exchanged a few simple greetings.

    In Medicine City, Lin Jiang''s alias is Lin Hua, and this big man is one of his suppliers, specifically providing him with talismans. They have known each other for over two years and have be quite familiar.

    The big man''s name is Zhong Xuanming. His family has been established in Medicine City for three generations. With three generations supporting him, Zhong Xuanming''s son, Zhong Lin Yu, was epted as a disciple by the Five Elements Sect. This is what they call a clean background. Even the cultivation world has political examinations, huh?

    Lin Yu spent many years practicing diligently. With the financial support from his family, he broke through the Building Foundation Period at the age of thirty-six. A bright future awaited him. Less than six monthster, he caught the attention of a steward from the Five Elements Sect and was married to his daughter. Today was a day of great joy for Lin Yu.

    After three generations of hard work by the Zhong family, the time had finallye for them to enjoy the fruits of theirbor. Therefore, Zhong Xuanming went all out to celebrate his son''s wedding. They invited their neighbors, business partners, and friends. They even prepared more than thirty banquet tables. Today, Lin Jiang was here to attend the feast.

    "The bride ising!"

    After a while, a child screamed in surprise. Lin Yu and his new wife appeared, followed by many disciples from the Five Elements Sect. The wedding was about to begin.

    For the newlyweds, a wedding might be the most important moment in their lives. But for the guests, their focus was mostly on the food and treating it as a social event.

    Lin Jiang, of course, didn''t want to miss out. He kept eating with his chopsticks while chatting and joking with several disciples from the outer sect of the Five Elements Sect. Forming a good rtionship mighte in handy in the future.

    Adult socializing can be quite mundane. It starts early when there''s no benefit. If it''s not motivated by self-interest, then it''s considered ineffective socializing.

    "Oh, too bad. There weren''t any scenes of people fighting over the bride or canceling the marriage."

    Two hourster, the feast ended. Unfortunately, there were no dramatic scenes of people fighting over the bride or canceling the marriage. Lin Jiang felt that something was missing from the fun.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106

    Medicine CitySweet Red Building

    Lin Jiang and some disciples from the Five Elements Sect were having a great time. Everyone was enjoying themselves. Lin Jiang vividly described the grand scenes of Yunzhong City''s Spring Coming Tower and Baihua Tower, which were captivating and made their hearts race. It was like someone describing the bustling scenes of Dongguan in the past. They couldn''t help but fly to Yunzhong City immediately to see it for themselves.

    "The Sect Leader is really harsh. He holds our sisters in his arms, but his heart is floating towards Yunzhong City..."

    These words made the little fairy of Sweet Red Building turn green. Hey, guest. You are kind, but is it really okay to dig our corner in front of us? If we could beat you, we would definitely fight you for three hundred rounds tonight.

    "That''s right! Brother Lin is so heartless. Tonight, you sisters should teach him a lesson. Whoever can make him unable to wake up tomorrow morning, I will reward them generously."

    Upon hearing this, the disciples of the Five Elements Sect immediately echoed. The little fairies were even more eager, dering that they wanted to spar with Lin Jiang to test their skills. Lin Jiang quickly surrendered.

    After a night of madness, in the early morning, Lin Jiang called a disciple named Zhang Ye from the Five Elements Sect to have breakfast together. Lin Jiang could offer themte-night drinks and also find them morning porridge.

    "It''s too crazy. Brother Lin can''t continue like this in the future."

    Zhang Ye was eating porridge, feeling extremely regretful. Not only did he waste the whole night, but he also lost many spirit stones."Right, right, I can''t do this anymore."

    Lin Jiang agreed, but inside he rolled his eyes. He remembered thatst night they were just drinking for fun. It was Zhang Ye who suggested going to the Sweet Red Building. Being able to enter the Sage Time was a big deal!

    "I really envy Brother Lin. He has a skill, nevercks spirit stones, and can go wherever he wants to have fun."

    Zhang Ye sighed again. Lin Jiang''s business of selling spiritual talismans in Medicine City was getting more and more sessful, with a good ie. Unlike them, disciples of their sect who, unless they were supported or had exceptional talent, would still struggle.

    "Brother Zhang, look at what you''re saying. We also envy you. You have the backing of the Five Elements Sect, so no one dares to bully you. You have a stable monthly ie..."

    "Yeah, that''s true, but we''re not very free."

    "This is called a walled city. Those outside the city want to get in, while those inside the city want to get out."

    "Brother Lin always speaks so wisely. Here, let''s have a toast."

    "Haha"

    Lin Jiang picked up the bowl of porridge and challenged Zhang Ye to finish it. Even the boss couldn''t stand it anymore. If Zhang Ye didn''t have the emblem of the Five Elements Sect, they would have been chased away.

    "Is Brother Zhang on duty today?"

    When they were almost done with their meal, Lin Jiang asked. Just like the disciples of the Five Elements Sect fromst night, Zhang Ye was also on duty in Medicine City. Zhang Ye was a small team leader in the patrol team. Lin Jiang had been observing him for over a year and considered him a more reliable person. He also had a hidden agenda.

    "How is that possible? My Martial Uncle has a keen sense of smell. If I were on duty today, I would be risking my life."

    Zhang Ye shook his head, referring to their Martial Uncle, a female cultivator who detested them seeking pleasure. If she caught a whiff of their fragrance, she would surely punish them.

    "Alright, let''s go to my ce and have some more."

    "I dare not, I dare not. If I drink more, it will be noticed tomorrow. Brother Lin must not betray me."

    "Why think so much? Let''s drink tea. I have something I want to consult Brother Zhang about."

    "Drinking tea is fine, let''s go."

    As soon as Zhang Ye heard that it wasn''t about drinking alcohol, he immediately agreed.

    Back at Lin Jiang''s home, Lin Jiang took out some good tea, brewed a pot, and the two of them enjoyed a sip.

    "Brother Lin, do you have something to ask?"

    "Brother Zhang, actually I have a wife and child in another city. My son is already eleven years old this year and will be able to test his Spiritual Root next year. I don''t know if he can join the Five Elements Sect. As you know, independent cultivators struggle. I really don''t want to see my son suffer. The sect is the true home for cultivators."

    Lin Jiang looked sincerely. The end of the universe was in formation, and the sect was the formation of the cultivation world. Every independent cultivator wanted to join a sect.

    "I''m afraid it won''t work."

    "Why won''t it work?"

    "Brother Lin, your time in Medicine City is too short. It''s unlikely you''ll pass the sect''s criteria. If you stay for another ten years, maybe you can join the outer sect."

    "Even with good talent, can I not join the inner sect?"

    "It is possible, but not very likely. Inner sect disciples are highly regarded and muste from a respectable background. The sect will conduct investigations on you."

    Zhang Ye said. In the cultivation world, the scrutiny is not about whether you havemitted crimes or not, but rather about the fear of other forces infiltrating. If a force is willing to spend decades or even centuries preparing, there is nothing they can do to prevent it. It can be seen as a form of selection.

    Lin Jiang thought of Cao Ying. Back then, he wished he didn''t have these troubles. Of course, it is also possible that Cao Ying had undergone several tests at the Zhonghang Sect, but he just didn''t know.

    "Brother Zhang, do you have any solutions? Please enlighten me."

    "Um..."

    "If Brother Zhang is willing to teach, I will cover the money for Brother Zhang to go to the Sweet Red Building for the next three years."

    "Brother Lin, it''s not right, it''s not right, I am not that kind of person."

    "Brother Zhang, please look at this."

    Lin Jiang saw that he was still hesitating, so he took some things out of his storage bag. There were two contracts for selling oneself, one for the little fairy and her maid that Zhang Ye always liked, and another one for renting a house for two years. These things cost Lin Jiang several years of ie.

    "Ah, this..."

    Zhang Ye was instantly confused. What should he do? He didn''t want to agree, but this was too generous.

    "If Brother Zhang can help me with this, then all of these will be Brother Zhang''s. By taking care of them, it won''t be considered as seeking pleasure anymore. Your Martial Uncle shouldn''t say anything either, right?"

    "I..."

    Zhang Ye''s face turned red, and after hesitating for three seconds, his defenses werepletely broken.

    "Brother Lin, there is actually a way. Have you heard of the Ascension Order?"

    "I''ve heard of it. It''s only for small sects, right? The big sects don''t have it anymore."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The so-called Ascension Order is a token of a sect. By holding this token, as long as you have a Spiritual Root, the sect must ept you as a disciple. For ordinary people, it''s a great opportunity to cultivate immortality, so it''s called the Ascension Order.

    However, the Ascension Order is usually only yed by small sects. The big sects have never heard of it, at least Lin Jiang hasn''t heard of it in the hundred years he has been in Yunzhong City.

    "The big sects also developed from small sects, and even the current Five Elements Sect still issues Ascension Orders. However, they are extremely rare and have very strict conditions."

    "Can Brother Zhang help?"

    "Yes, but I have one condition."

    "Please tell, Brother Zhang."

    "Xiaoyuan girl will be under Brother Lin''s name. In the future, I will visit your home more often."

    "Ah..."

    "I won''t hide it, Brother Lin. I have a wife at home, and she is very fierce. If she finds out about this, that..."

    "Understood, understood. We are both men. I will take responsibility for this. After the matter is done, I will offer my services willingly. Of course, before it''s done, Brother Zhang can alsoe and visit frequently."

    Lin Jiang immediately said. If you have a strong wife at home, you understand. That''s why Lin Jiang has already made up his mind to never get married. He will never give up the entire forest for just one tree.

    Afterwards, Zhang Ye talked to Lin Jiang about some details. This Ascension Order is now given very strictly. It is usually only given to disciples who have no hope for the future but have made achievements, like those who were seriously injured for the sect. On average, it takes two or three years to issue one or two of them.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    These people are aware that they have no future in the sect, so they leave and get married and have children outside. But not every child has a Spiritual Root. Even if they do, if it''s not a very good one, they won''t use this precious Ascension Order. If they''re unlucky and several generations don''t produce excellent Spiritual Roots, they might sell this Ascension Order.

    Zhang Ye has a good rtionship with someone who works in the library of the sect. He can easily find this information and make it easier for Lin Jiang to n. However, it will take time. If he''s lucky, it can be done in three to five months. If he''s unlucky, it might take three to five years.

    Lin Jiang said he has time. His eldest son missed the opportunity, but he can go back and have a few more children. The point is, he can''t let all his sons be independent cultivators.

    "Your wife treats you really well. My wife doesn''t want to have children unless I give her a hundred thousand spirit stones."

    "What is that?"

    "Having children is physically exhausting. Being pregnant and taking care of children means not being able to cultivate for at least a year and a half. It can even lead to a loss of cultivation. If I don''t give her a hundred thousand spirit stones, she refuses to have children."

    "Oh my goodness."

    Lin Jiang was shocked to discover such talented individuals in the cultivation world. But he quickly kept quiet, as it wasn''t his ce to meddle in other people''s business, especially since he wasn''t in an official position yet.

    Three dayster, Lin Jiang rented the neighboring house. Both families shared the same array, but the wall separating them was broken. Fairy Xiaoyuan from the Sweet Red Building and her maid also moved back in. The previous tenant had subleased the house.

    Lin Jiang had no interest in bing brothers-inw with Zhang Ye. He never stepped into that courtyard. He had others take care of his daily needs, while Zhang Ye seemed more interested and frequently sought Lin Jiang out. Lin Jiang didn''t need to invite him.

    "Young man, you can''t just eat and bezy."

    Six monthster, seeing that Zhang Ye wasn''t making much progress, Lin Jiang immediately arranged for Xiaoyuan and her maid to leave the city for a trip. Zhang Ye missed several opportunities and became quite frustrated.

    Lin Jiang didn''t rely on him and instead distanced himself from Zhang Ye. He became closer with other disciples from the Five Elements Sect. After all, Lin Jiang couldn''t depend solely on Zhang Ye.

    This time it was Zhang Ye who became desperate. Xiaoyuan was gentle and obedient, providing him with pleasures he couldn''t experience at home. He had fallen for her. Soon after, Zhang Ye brought good news to Lin Jiang.

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107

    Yuanshan Town

    When the new day began, Master Qi was waiting early at the entrance of the shrine. Qi family''s cultivators entered the shrine one by one to do their daily practice.

    Inside the shrine, Qi family''s cultivators sat in meditation while Master Qi activated a formation to release spiritual energy. The spiritual energy was very weak because Yuanshan Town didn''t have strong spiritual veins. After developing a 50-acre spiritualnd, the spiritual energy became almost nonexistent. Qi family had to rely on the Spirit Gathering Formation to collect that little amount of spiritual energy.

    After two hours of practice, the training ended. Master Qi checked each person''s progress. If their cultivation had improved, they would receive praise from Master Qi and asionally a bottle of Spirit Gathering Pill as a reward. But if their cultivation had stagnated, they would inevitably be scolded.

    "Seventh Youngster, you useless fool. Your cultivation hasn''t grown a bit in half a year..."

    Today, Seventh Youngster of Qi family was scolded again. He lowered his head and took the scolding like a grandchild. Master Qi scolded until he had no energy left, then waved his hand, telling them all to leave.

    At that moment, an old servant walked in, carrying a cup of herbal tea for Master Qi. He advised. Master, don''t be too impatient. Cultivation should not be rushed, or else it may ruin everything.

    "How can I not be impatient? Do any of these descendants of Qi family have any worth? This is how our Qi family will ever prosper. In the past, my Qi family... ah, let''s not talk about it anymore."

    Master Qi said with a pained expression. In the past, his Qi family ancestor was a core disciple of the Five Elements Sect. But during a pursuit of evil cultivators, he was severely injured and damaged his dantian. Without powerful healing pills, he missed the chance to ascend to immortality.After struggling in the Five Elements Sect for several years and feeling disheartened, he used the merit points he had umted over decades to obtain an Ascension Order. Then he left the Five Elements Sect and settled in Yuanshan Town.

    The Qi family''s ancestors had many wives and concubines, and they had many children. However, not many of them had good Spiritual Roots, and their aptitude and talent were average. The Qi family''s ancestors gave up on the idea of using the Ascension Order because they knew that with poor aptitude, entering the Five Elements Sect would be a waste of their lives.

    Before the Qi family ancestors passed away, they warned their descendants that the Ascension Order was the only chance for the Qi family to turn their fortunes around. It should not be taken lightly, and it should only be used when the Qi family had exceptional young talents.

    To their surprise, Qi family went through several generations without any so-called geniuses, instead constantly declining in the secr world.

    Cultivation was too difficult иC day after day, year after year of training, with little or no rewards. Instead, it was morefortable to bezy. With the Qi family''s status, they were already a top power among ordinary people. They never had to worry about food and drink, had countless women иC so why bother exhausting oneself with cultivation?

    It was precisely because of the overall decline of the Qi family that Master Qi had to supervise their cultivation daily. However, even with such efforts, it didn''t bring any positive development to the Qi family. Those who wanted to bezy continued to bezy, just like the seventh son, who was already over fifty and married several concubines. He wasted his days in his own yard and had no intention of cultivating.

    "Master, the third son of the second wife is actually quite good. He has a calm personality, decent talent, and is diligent. He is still young and hasn''t been influenced by his uncles yet. We can send him to the Five Elements Sect."

    "No, the third son of the second wife only has Three Spiritual Roots. The Five Elements Sect is not like our Yuanshan Town. Three Spiritual Roots won''t be considered much. Our Qi family doesn''t have enough strength to support him. It will be difficult for him even to establish a foundation."

    Master Qi nced at the old servant. He knew that the old servant had been influenced by the second wife and came to plea for the third son. However, he was unwilling to agree. Three Spiritual Roots werepletely insignificant in the Five Elements Sect. Without the support of a family, it would be difficult for him to establish a foundation. The Qi family had already declined and couldn''t provide much resources to support future generations. So, Master Qi''s minimum requirement was at least a Two Spiritual Roots.

    It doesn''t matter, then he should have children. Female cultivators may not easily marry into their family, so they can find ordinary people. After all, the Qi family is thergestndlord in Yuanshan Town. They have no worries about raising children. If they have many, naturally, there will be exceptional talents among them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Brother Lin, this is Yuanshan Town."

    "Do the Qi family really have the Ascension Order?"

    "Of course, my senior brother told me that the ancestors of the Qi family were once promising disciples of the Five Elements Sect. However, they were severely injured by evil cultivators during the pursuit and their dantian was damaged. They couldn''t gather enough money to buy fourth-grade or higher elixirs in a short time, which dyed their progress. But they had umted a lot of Merit Points, so they exchanged them for an Ascension Order."

    Zhang Ye said. This is the struggle for someone without background. If the dantian is injured, it can be treated by timely consuming fourth-grade or higher elixirs. But those elixirs for treating internal injuries in the dantian easily cost hundreds of thousands of spirit stones, which not everyone can afford. Most cultivators, including disciples of sects, can only be dyed without receiving proper treatment.

    "Is the Qi family willing to sell?"

    "Well, that will depend on my abilities. Brother Lin, don''t worry, I will definitely get you that Ascension Order."

    Zhang Ye said, he had already inquired about it. Since that ancestor, the Qi family has not produced anyone in the Building Foundation Period. It has been more than two hundred years, and the connections established by the Qi family''s ancestor have long been exhausted. Today, whether they want to sell or not, they have to sell."

    "Alright, but I am a kind and friendly person. If I can buy it, it doesn''t matter if the price is high."

    Lin Jiang said, looking at Zhang Ye''s expression, he could tell what he had in mind. Lin Jiang considered himself not a good person, but not a viin either.

    "Brother Lin, don''t worry, let''s go."

    Zhang Ye nodded, and then the two flew to Yuanshan Town.

    Yuanshan Town was just an ordinary vige of ordinary people. Among the cultivator families, only the Qi family lived there. After Zhang Ye entered the town, he fully activated his divine sense, and the people of the Qi family immediately sensed it and quickly raised their defensive formation.

    "I am Qi Zhao, the head of the Qi family. I have met the two elders. May I ask why the elders havee to Yuanshan Town? What brings you here?"

    Master Qi stood in the formation, looking at Zhang Ye and Lin Jiang. He was very nervous, but forced himself to remain calm.

    "Old man Qi, do you really think your second-tier formation can stop us? Release the formation, or I will break through!"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhang Ye showed a ferocious expression and angrily reprimanded Qi Zhao. Qi Zhao''s face changed drastically. Now he was certain that they hade specifically for their Qi family. However, the Qi family was a decrepit cultivation family with no treasures. Why would they provoke the two Building Foundation elders?

    "Boom!"

    Master Qi hesitated for a moment, but Zhang Ye becamepletely impatient and directly attacked. He shook the Qi family''s defense formation, causing the women and children inside to scream. Even the men panicked and ran around like headless flies.

    "Don''t fight, don''t fight, senior, please don''t fight. I will release the formation now."

    Master Qi was extremely frightened. Although his family had a second-level formation, it couldn''t withstand the Building Foundation Period at all.

    Soon, Master Qi opened the formation and Zhang Ye swaggered in. Lin Jiang hesitated for a moment, but eventually followed suit. Lin Jiang was worried that the Qi family might have an ambush, but when he thought about the Spirit Beast Bag owned by Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, he felt relieved. Even if the Qi family had some hidden cards, they were no match for a third-level monster.

    Zhang Ye didn''t understand the concept of diplomacy. He went straight to the point and demanded the Qi family''s Ascension Order, making Master Qi''s face turn even paler. This Ascension Order was the only chance for the Qi family to rise.

    "Master Qi, please don''t panic. We are not viins. I want to buy the Ascension Order, not forcibly take it."

    "Senior, our family''s Ascension Order was sold many years ago."

    Master Qi quickly spoke up, and Lin Jiang sighed before exchanging a nce with Zhang Ye. Suddenly, a fierce expression appeared on Zhang Ye''s face, and he immediately enveloped Master Qi with his spiritual power.

    Master Qi felt like he had fallen into an icy cave. Every hair on his body stood on end, and the terrifying killing intent almost shattered his spirit.

    "No sell, no sell, senior please spare me."

    "Mr. Qi, I won''t y pretend with you. Onest chance, is the Ascension Order here or not? If you dare to lie, I will destroy your whole family."

    "Yes, it''s really here."

    Master Qipletely copsed. The old and young of the Qi family are all here. If they were destroyed, what''s the point of talking about rising up?

    Lin Jiang nced at the people of the Qi family. They all trembled and dared not meet his gaze. In his heart, he couldn''t help but sigh. In the end, he still became a viin.

    In this cultivation world, weakness is the original sin.

    "Master Qi, I said it was for buying, not stealing."

    "We sell, we sell, senior, it''s not stealing."

    "Then what price does Master Qi suggest?"

    "This..."

    "You haven''t sold it before, so I guess you don''t know how to set a price. Let me make an offer, okay?"

    "Okay, okay."

    What else can Master Qi do now? Even if Lin Jiang offers just one spirit stone, he has to reluctantly agree.

    "I''ll offer a high-grade lower-level cultivation technique, which can reach the Nascent Soul stage at its highest. It''s suitable for cultivating both the Gold and Fire Spiritual Roots..."

    "Okay, sold."

    "No rush, I haven''t finished yet. In addition to the cultivation technique, I''ll also give you thirty second-grade spiritual talismans, ten bottles of Spirit Gathering Pills, and a set of second-grade defensive formation, which is better than what you have now, and can even..."

    "Brother Lin"

    Zhang Ye couldn''t bear it anymore, questioning why they were acting like robbers when someone was here to do business.

    "Brother Zhang, forget about it. A small amount of money is not worth mentioning."

    "Okay, okay, you decide."

    "I will add three hundred runes, from the first to the second level, along with insights from a Talisman Maker. I won''t give you any other spirit stones or wealth. Having too much money is not a good thing for your Qi family."

    Lin Jiang said. A child carrying gold in a bustling market is asking for trouble. These things are not useful for everyone, but they can directly enhance theirbat and defense capabilities.

    Moreover, what Lin Jiang gave was already a lot. The value of the profound-level martial arts is not low, and the second-level spiritual talismans alone are worth over a thousand spirit stones. Adding other things, the total value is over eight thousand spirit stones. Runes, for example, require effort to collect even if you have money.

    Of course, these things are not worth mentioning to Lin Jiang. He found the martial arts in some unlucky guy''s storage bag, drew the spiritual talismans himself, and removed the formations from the previous cave mansion. Runes are no longer useful to him either.

    Paying this price, Lin Jiang doesn''t ask for anything else, just to avoid feeling too guilty.

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108

    Medicine City

    When they arrived here, Zhang Ye was still talking about the kindness of Lin Jiang''s wife, thinking that Lin Jiang had given too much. In the cultivation world, it''s survival of the fittest. Not wiping out the Qi family is already a favor for them. Giving them so many resources, what if the Qi family prospers in the future? It would be a disaster. Don''t you understand what it means to eliminate the root of the problem?

    Lin Jiang was speechless about this. He also felt conflicted. Seeing that Master Qi had white hair, Lin Jiang really couldn''t bring himself to do it.

    "Wow, even the farmers are so ruthless."

    Finally getting rid of Zhang Ye, Lin Jiang sighed. The Five Elements Sect is indeed a big yer, but he didn''t expect that even finding a random person would be a tough challenge.

    Zhang Ye helped Lin Jiang with something, so Lin Jiang naturally had to fulfill his promise. He handed over the indenture of Fairy Xiaoyuan and her maidservant to Zhang Ye, and also helped them create a cozy nest by decorating the house a little bit.

    At first, Lin Jiang thought that Zhang Ye was just ying around with Fairy Xiaoyuan. After all, it was just a casual fling, maybe just a stronger sense of novelty. But he didn''t expect that after more than six months, the two of them would unexpectedly develop into true love.

    In the story, Zhang Ye wants to marry Fairy Xiaoyuan. He asks Lin Jiang to be the witness, but he doesn''t want to make a big fuss about it. He''s even afraid to let his fellow martial arts brothers know. Lin Jiang is speechless when he finds out.

    "Biao, Zi Wu Qing, Xi Zi Wu Yi, Zhang Ye Yao Fei Le.""Biao, the heartless, heartless fool, Zhang Ye wanted to abolish."

    "Biao, the heartless one, the ungrateful fool, Zhang Ye wanted to get rid of."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, he didn''t know what Fairy Xiaoyuan was like, but he didn''t trust people who yed with true love in such ces. Especially since Zhang Ye had a strong wife at home, this kind of thing couldn''t stay a secret for long.

    "Zhang Ye''s wife at home is quite influential. He needs to find a chance to escape quickly so as not to harm himself. Even though it seems like I am also involved, it''s not really innocent."

    Lin Jiang, the instigator, ns to escape. If this matter is exposed, he will also suffer consequences. He still wants to slowly blend in with the Five Elements Sect.

    Lin Jiang helped Zhang Ye with his wedding preparations. He found a tailor to make new clothes and arranged a table of food. However, there were no guests, only four people including Fairy Xiaoyuan''s maid.

    "Congrattions, Brother Zhang, for bing a groom again!"

    "Thank you very much, Brother Lin. Zhang Ye will never forget your great kindness."

    "Actually, I pity you. You only get to be a groom for one night and lose the chance to be a groom every night."

    "Oh, Brother Lin, you don''t know. Zhang is actually a loyal and faithful person. Having one wife is enough."

    "Brother Zhang''s loyalty really leaves me in awe."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes in annoyance You''ve also been to the Sweet Red Building, and you seemed to enjoy it. Ha, only someone with a thick skin can act so cool.

    "Brother Lin''s wife takes care of things at home, so Brother Lin doesn''t need to go to Sweet Red Building often in the future."

    "That''s right, I am also a pure-hearted person."

    "Very good, very good."

    "Brother Zhang, I have a question that I need to consult you about."

    "You tell me, Brother Lin''s matters are also my matters."

    "Here''s the situation, my husband, you see, he has short-sightedness even though his hair is long. He thinks I am not capable of obtaining the Ascension Order, so he took the liberty to have our eldest son practice cultivation. Recently, I received a message saying that my son has already reached the Qi Refining stage. Will this have any impact on joining the Five Elements Sect as a disciple?"

    "Why is sister-inw so confused?"

    "Will it have a big impact?"

    "Yes, joining a major sect ces a high emphasis on having a clean background. If you already have cultivation, the sect will suspect your involvement with other forces. Unless you and your family have been disciples of the Five Elements Sect for multiple generations and have a deep understanding, otherwise, even if you have the Ascension Order, you can only join the outer sect. You will be marked by the higher-ups and won''t be able to be a core disciple. You won''t be able to enjoy any benefits."

    Zhang Ye said. There are hierarchy divisions within the sect. If you''re not a core disciple, you won''t have the qualifications to learn advanced techniques. Your achievements in this lifetime will also be limited.

    "Is there a way to remedy it?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Yes, there is."

    "Please, Brother Zhang, tell me."

    "Abandon cultivation."

    "Give up cultivation?"

    "Yes, abandon cultivation. How long has your son been practicing?"

    "Less than half a year."

    "That''s good then. After abandoning cultivation, you can set up a special formation for him to live in for a few months. During this time, he must note into contact with any spiritual energy, including food. This will help eliminate any traces of spiritual energy from his body."

    "Can it be done like this?"

    "Yes, someone has done it before."

    Zhang Ye said. The Five Elements Sect once discovered spies from other powers, and they did it this way.

    "If someone has done it before, can one who has been practicing for many years also do it? For example, someone like you and me who are at the Building Foundation Period."

    "Of course it''s possible, but it would require a longer time of isting spiritual energy. For people at the Building Foundation Period like you and me, it could take at least three to five years, and the cost would be very high."

    Zhang Ye said. Usually people at the Building Foundation Period wouldn''t do this. With a lifespan of only two hundred years, wasting twenty years to abolish cultivation and iste spiritual energy would be a huge price to pay.

    "I see now, thank you for teaching me."

    "Brother Lin wants your wife to abolish your son''s cultivation as soon as possible. Don''t cultivate anymore, and also teach him to forget the current techniques. When you go to the Five Elements Sect, don''t expose this matter to avoid unnecessary trouble."

    "Thank you, Brother Lin. I will write a letter back tomorrow."

    "Brother Lin should bring his wife over to reunite early. Sweet Red Building is not a good ce, so we should go there less."

    "Brother Zhang taught me."

    Lin Jiang replied, once again despising Zhang Ye in his heart. He thought, "Someone who wants to smash the pot after having a full meal is really not a decent person."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Master of the House"

    "Met the Master of the House"

    In Lin Jiang''s shop, two assistants greeted Lin Jiang.

    "I have some personal matters to attend to and will be going out for an indefinite period. The shop''s lease still has over half a year left. If I don''te back in time, thendlord will take it back. You can sell the spiritual talismans in the shop. When Ie back, if it''s toote, let him take them back."

    Lin Jiang said to the two of them, who had been diligent and had followed him for several years. Lin Jiang decided to leave them with something. The spiritual talismans in the shop were still worth some money, so if he didn''te back, they could split the earnings.

    "Where is the host going?"

    "Let''s go home."

    "The host muste back soon, the store can''t operate without the host."

    The assistant said that they had been living well with Lin Jiang these past few years. Their wages were never dyed, the workload was not heavy, and the host''s attitude was gentle. It''s difficult to find this kind of host in Medicine City.

    "I wille back."

    Lin Jiang gave them a kind lie, even if he came back, it wouldn''t be Lin Hua, but someone else.

    After quickly dealing with things, Lin Jiang left. He didn''t inform the other friends and left Medicine City without knowing where to go.

    If it was a market or something simr, he had ces to go. If not, returning to Yunzhong City was also an option. However, if he wanted to find a ce without spiritual energy, Lin Jiang currently had no direction.

    "There is a group of refugees."

    After meandering around for a couple of months, Lin Jiang discovered a group of ordinary people fleeing. Lin Jiang floated in the sky and observed that there were about a hundred people in the group, young and old, carrying their belongings. They were surrounded by fierce animals and asionally, one of them would be dragged away.

    Among these people were ordinary warriors who had learned spear fighting skills. However, there were only five or six of them, and they were unable to withstand the attacks from the fierce animals. They kept getting caught.

    "Hey, Big Shadiao, your food supply is here. Go get it," someone said.

    Lin Jiang decided to help them. He released Big Shadiao. The reason for helping them was that Lin Jiang saw that even in such a dangerous situation, the strong men among these people didn''t abandon the elderly, weak, and young. This kind of spirit deserved his assistance.

    Big Shadiao unleashed a few wind des, killing all the fierce animals. However, Big Shadiao didn''t bother to collect the bodies. These creatures were not even worthy enough to be eaten by it.

    Lin Jiang felt a little embarrassed. Big Shadiao had gained quite a reputation now, and it no longer ate anything other than monsters. It had been spoiled.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Uncle Xiao, Uncle Xiao, there''s a person up ahead," Fang Yuan ran back from afar and said to Xiao Yuan.

    "Who is it? Can you see clearly?"

    "I don''t know, lying on the ground, seems to be dead."

    "Xiao Fang, remember to look carefully next time. Come on, take me to have a look."

    Xiao Yuan said, now he is in charge of the whole vige. There are so many wild animals around, he usually doesn''t leave the big group. He''s afraid that if he leaves, those wild animals wille back.

    Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan walked forward for hundreds of meters and saw a person lying on the ground. Xiao Yuan approached to check and found that the person was still alive.

    "Friend, friend, wake up."

    "Water, water..."

    As Xiao Yuan patted him, Lin Jiang slowly opened his eyes and cried for water. He remembered seeing it in a TV show, so it should be right.

    "Drink quickly."

    "Drink slowly, don''t choke."

    Fang Yuan took off his waist gourd and handed it to Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang grabbed the gourd and chugged it down.

    "Phew, thank you, two kind sirs."

    "How should I address you, young fellow? Where are you from?"

    "I''m called Lin Kai, from the Lin family in Xiaota Vige."

    "Where is Xiaota Vige?"

    "Just over there, very far, very far."

    Lin Jiang casually pointed in a direction, not caring if there were other people with the same surname as the Lin family. After all, there were quite a few people with the surname Lin.

    "Young fellow, where are your family members? Why are you here?"

    "Monsters, they''re dead. Fire-breathing monsters, wooo..."

    Lin Jiang''s acting skills exploded, and he became excited. He started speaking incoherently, showing various expressions like fear, panic, and anger.

    "Monsters, your vige was also harmed by monsters. Where is the fairy in your vige?"

    "What fairy?"

    "Does your vige not have a fairy stationed there?"

    Xiao Yuan found it strange. Aren''t there fairies in every vige? Without a fairy stationed there, how can any vige survive for more than a year without being eaten by monsters? Unless it''s near certain big cities.

    "Fairy Chief, you said it''s the Fairy Chief. They''re dead, burned to death by monsters."

    "Uncle Xiao, so pitiful, just like our vige."

    "Ah, a fellow unfortunate soul, little brother. Are you willing toe with me?"

    "Where to go?"

    "I don''t know, let''s find a safe ce."

    Xiao Yuan shook his head. They needed to find a ce near where humans gather, preferably with a fairy present. If they refuse, they will have to seek the protection of a fairy.

    "Okay."

    "Little brother, have you practiced martial arts?"

    "No, but I am very strong. I can lift the millstone in the grain field."

    Lin Jiang said. Back in the day, I, Old Lin, was a talented young man known for miles around. I could easily lift and carry the stones in the grain field.

    "How heavy can the millstones in the grain field be? My Uncle Xiao is a master, no less powerful than a second-level Qi Refining fairy."

    "It''s okay if you haven''t practiced martial arts. Can you walk now?"

    Xiao Yuan said. Many strong men in the vige have died. It would be good if we could have new peoplee in to help. They can protect the women and children on the way and also work hard when they settle down. Maybe they can even have more children since there are many widows now.

    "Yes, I am hungry."

    "I have some food. We can eat while walking, but we cannot stop. There are too many wild animals here."

    Xiao Yuan said, as he helped Lin Jiang up and handed him two biscuits. Lin Jiang took a bite and immediately regretted being hungry. The biscuits were really terrible.

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109

    "Let''s go, let''s go. Our vige chief said you must leave today. Otherwise, we won''t be polite anymore."

    Outside a certain vige, a strong man said to Xiao Yuan. He had more than ten vigers fully armed behind him, staring angrily at Xiao Yuan.

    "We are leaving, right now."

    Xiao Yuan didn''t dare to be reckless. After apologizing repeatedly, he left.

    "Uncle Xiao, are they willing to take us in?"

    Back among the refugee group, Fang Yuan immediately asked, and this was a matter of life and death for all of them, all eyes were on Xiao Yuan.

    But Xiao Yuan'' shaking head disappointed them greatly. This was already the fifth vige they had encountered in the past half month since Lin Jiang joined them. None of the viges were willing to ept them. The better ones would let them rest for a day and provide some dry food. The worse ones even wanted to devour them, killing the men and taking the women home.

    Of course, with Lin Jiang here, they couldn''t do that.

    "Uncle Xiao, how about we start our own vige?"Lin Jiang suggested at this time. He didn''t want to waste any more time. Once they were settled, he would give up his cultivation.

    "Uncle Xiao, Lin Kai has a good idea. We don''t need to rely on others. Let''s build our own vige."

    "Viges andnd are easy to find, but immortals are not. Without immortals protecting us, how long can we survive?"

    Xiao Yuan said, as mortals in the cultivation world, they depended on cultivators for protection. Without cultivators, let alone demons, even wild beasts could kill them.

    "Uncle Xiao, we young ones can endure, but just look at Aunt and the others, they''re either already sick or on the verge of getting sick. If things continue like this, everyone will die."

    Lin Jiang pointed to the women and children behind him and said, after spending half a month with them, he had already learned about their situation.

    Xiao Yuan had more than a hundred people behind him, survivors from three viges. The three viges were close together and usually protected by two independent cultivators in the Qi Refining Period. However, not long ago, their vige was targeted by monsters. One Qi Refining Period cultivator died, and the other was injured and eventually fled.

    After that, people from the three viges were eaten by monsters one after another. They tried everything they could, but nothing worked. The remaining people started to relocate and became refugees. There were originally over three hundred people, but now only about a hundred remained.

    Furthermore, there were no elderly or babies. The youngest were only seven or eight years old. Any younger would be a burden. There weren''t many young and strong people either. They were eaten by wild beasts and monsters along the way or encountered various idents.

    Now, there aren''t many good people left. Most of them are either sick or have reached their limits mentally and physically. This is the result of Lin Jiang secretly sheltering them for the past half month. Otherwise, half of them would have died again.

    "But even without immortals, we still have to die."

    "We can worry about dyingter. First, let''s settle down, and then Uncle Xiao can go find the immortals. Perhaps there will be a chance for a turnaround."

    "Uncle Xiao, Lin Kai is right. We can''t keep going. If we do, we''ll all die."

    "Okay, let''s find a ce to stay."

    Xiao Yuan gave up, he also knew that the vigers had reached their limit, and they didn''t have much food left. Even if they found a ce to settle, they wouldn''t have enough food until the next harvest.

    Xiao Yuan decided not to continue walking. In less than half a day, they found a valley and decided to settle there. They built wooden houses on the ridges on both sides of the valley to defend against wild beasts. If they encountered a group of wild beasts, they could block the valley entrance and resist them. The tnd at the bottom of the valley could be developed into good farnd.

    The following days were very busy. The young and strong refugees were gathered and divided into several groups. Xiao Yuan led a few people to patrol nearby, checking if there were any dangerous wild beasts or monsters. If there were, they would have to run again. This ce was not suitable for settling.

    Fang Yuan led a group of people to cut down trees and build wooden houses for everyone to live in. It hadn''t rained in the past few days, but if it did rain and they had nowhere to take shelter, falling ill could be fatal. They also needed to fence off the valley entrance and needed a lot of wood for that.

    The women and children were not idle either. They cleared the fields, cooked, gathered firewood, and repaired clothes, and so on. There were too many tasks to do. When they fled, they lost almost everything except for food. Now they were essentially building a vige from scratch, starting everything from the beginning.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Lin Kai,e and help, please."

    "Okay."

    After a month, beside the valley entrance, Lin Jiang and Xiao Yuan worked together to pull up a huge wooden gate, and the fence at the entrance of the valley was finallypleted.

    "With this gate, wild beasts won''t be able toe in anymore, and everyone can have a good night''s sleep."

    "Uncle Xiao, are you sure there are no monsters around here?"

    "I''ve been all over the area within a thirty-mile radius, and there shouldn''t be any."

    Xiao Yuan, who was skilled in martial arts and had light footsteps, said that he had walked around the area within a thirty-mile radius dozens of times and there were indeed no monsters.

    Lin Jiang, who was standing next to him, smiled and said nothing. Within a two-hundred-mile radius, not to mention monsters, evenrge fierce beasts were all killed by Big Shadiao.

    "That''s great, we can survive here now."

    "But let''s talkter, there are still many things to do. In a few days, I need to go to other viges to exchange things. Who wants toe with me, Fang Yuan or Lin Kai?"

    "I''ll go."

    Fang Yuan said immediately, a small vige cannot sustain itself and needs to trade with other viges. They must establish trade routes, otherwise they won''t be able to survive.

    "Let Fang Yuan go, I''ll stay here. My house hasn''t been built yet."

    "Let''s squeeze together for now, these wood materials are fresh and will get infested with bugs in less than half a year. Let''s wait for the wood to dry for a few months, then we can build a new house."

    "No, I snore when I sleep. I don''t want to disturb Uncle Xiao. I''ll build a wooden hut as a temporary solution."

    Lin Jiang quickly said, he didn''t want to share a bed with another man. What if he encounters someone who is difficult to deal with? He doesn''t want to be in trouble.

    "Suit yourself, let''s focus on building the temporary wooden hut for now. We can work on the permanent houseter."

    "Yes, Uncle Xiao."

    "Let''s go, back to the vige. There''s too much to do, we can''t rest today."

    Xiao Yuan waved his hand and led his people to hurry back to the vige to help. As the strongest man in the vige, he was the one people relied on now.

    In the span of a month, more than thirty temporary wooden houses had been built in the vige, and enough timber had been gathered. The extra wood had started to air dry.

    However, this was not enough. They needed at least fifty to sixty wooden houses, not only for people to live in, but also for ces like grain storage. As for the tasks, there were even more. They couldn''t finish them all in a short time, so they would have to take it one step at a time.

    During this time, Lin Jiang was surprisingly diligent. Lin Jiang promised that in his over two hundred years of living, he had never been this hardworking. He would go out early ande backte every day. He did as much work as Xiao Yuan and the others did. It even moved him himself.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    As each day passed, the vige started to take shape. The wooden houses were erected one by one, and the arablend was slowly cultivated. Xiao Yuan even picked up wild chicken eggs to hatch. Apletely new vige appeared before Lin Jiang''s eyes.

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111

    "Huangmu Vige warmly wees the immortal"

    In the fourth year since Huangmu Vige was founded, Xiao Yuan invited an immortal from Qingshan Town, which was over 300 miles away. The entire Huangmu Vige weed the immortal at the vige entrance.

    "Please don''t stand on ceremony"

    Huang Liang nced at everyone in Huangmu Vige and felt a bit helpless. He didn''t think much of this weak vige.

    Most of the nearby viges and towns have cultivators overseeing them. Unless he defeated one of those cultivators, he wouldn''t have any ce here.

    However, he only had a cultivation level of the fifthyer of Qi Refining. He didn''t have many magical tools with him. Who could he possibly defeat? He could barely handle Huangmu Vige.

    "Pleasee into the vige, immortal"

    Xiao Yuan nodded and bowed deeply to Huang Liang, showing extreme ttery. Two years ago, he had nned to invite an immortal to stay, but when those immortals heard that Huangmu Vige only had around a hundred people, mostly women and children, they all refused. Only this immortal didn''t mind them, so they naturally wanted to curry favor with him.

    Huang Liang followed Xiao Yuan into the vige and felt even more disappointed when he saw the scenery. This Huangmu Vige didn''t have any special features at all. He started to doubt whether Huangmu Vige would give him the promised rewards.In the best location of the vige, there was a magnificent house with a spacious courtyard. This was given to Huang Liang. He was somewhat satisfied with this as he could tell that Huangmu Vige had put some effort into it.

    Huang Liang settled in Huangmu Vige like this, and within a few days, he asked Xiao Yuan for a woman, as they had agreed before. Xiao Yuan introduced some unmarried women from the vige to Huang Liang, hoping to get lucky. This made Huang Liang furious and he started shouting and cursing.

    Huang Liang felt that these crude vige women were only suitable for doingundry, cooking, and cleaning toilets. They were not qualified to bear children. Huang Liang had given up a promising path of cultivation toe to Huangmu Vige, and his biggest goal was to have descendants.

    Xiao Yuan had no choice but to take the money and go to Qingshan Town to find a woman for Huang Liang. It was actually quite easy. Even though Huang Liang looked to be in his fifties or sixties, he was still a cultivator. Following a cultivator meant never worrying about food and drink, and having a high status. This was already the highest requirement for many mortal women. Without much effort, Huang Liang married three wives.

    After getting wives, Huang Liang wanted servants. Xiao Yuan arranged five vigers to serve their family''s daily life.

    From then on, there was no need to mention luxurious clothing or meat dishes for every meal. Xiao Yuan tried his best to satisfy Huang Liang''s desires. The vigers of Huangmu Vige also considered this to be normal because they had lived like this before. They even took pride in being servants to immortal families.

    Three monthster, Huang Liang discovered a weak spiritual vein about ten miles west of Huangmu Vige. With this, he opened up thirty acres of spiritualnd. Twenty-five acres were used to cultivate spiritual paddy, while five acres were used to grow low-level spiritual herbs.

    Managing the spiritual herbs required higher qualifications, so Huang Liang took care of it personally. However, the vigers were responsible for the spiritual paddy. Spiritual paddy was more precious than regr food crops, and required much morebor. One-tenth of thebor force in Huangmu Vige was immediately allocated to Huang Liang. This made the already scarcebor force in Huangmu Vige unable to meet demands, and Xiao Yuan became worried to the point of getting white hair.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Lin Kai, stop!"

    In the eighth year of Huangmu Vige, Lin Jiang returned from outside the vige carrying small andrge prey when he was stopped by a voice.

    "Madam, what''s the matter?"

    Lin Jiang stopped and said to the person, who was Mrs. Xu, Huang Liang''s legal wife. She was a beautiful daughter from a humble family in Qingshan Town. Her father refused to marry her off until he found a wealthy family for her. He finally found Xiao Yuan when he heard that an immortal wanted a wife.

    "Give me the rabbit in your hand. My son wants to eat roasted rabbit."

    "Madam, I have already given this month''s offering. I cannot give you this rabbit."

    "Lin Kai, do you want to die? It''s the immortal''s son who wants to eat."

    Mrs. Xu became furious when she heard Lin Jiang''s refusal and immediately mentioned the immortal.

    "Lin Kai, give it to her, it''s just a wild rabbit."

    "Yes, Lin Kai, don''t offend the fairy."

    "Lin Kai, listen to your aunt..."

    The vigers around saw Mrs. Xu getting angry and immediately tried to persuade Lin Kai. "It''s just a rabbit, don''t offend the fairy."

    "This rabbit is for Third Aunt. Her daughter just had a babyst month."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. This wild rabbit was promised to Third Aunt. Xiao Yuan brought some poor people from out of town, and someone married Third Aunt''s daughter. And in fact, Third Aunt had been good to him.

    "You, Lin Kai, just you wait. When my fairy husbandes back, I''ll kick you out for sure."

    Mrs. Xu, after hearing Lin Jiang''s words, became even angrier. If it weren''t for seeing the muscles on Lin Jiang''s body, she would have physically attacked him.

    "It''s true that we invited Huang the fairy, but Huangmu Vige was built by us with our own hands and feet. Who to drive away, that''s not for him to decide."

    Lin Jiang got angry too. Huang Liang was actually okay in these years, not a good person but not a bad person either. But his wife and mistress were not good people. They took advantage of Huang Liang''s support and bullied the people in the vige, often resorting to violence. They only treated Xiao Yuan a little more politely.

    What made Lin Jiang unable to bear it the most was that Mrs. Xu and her group treated Huangmu Vige as their own property. They believed that all the vige''s belongings belonged to their family.

    Of course, this is also true in other viges and towns. Every guardian immortal in other ces is not the founder, they are all failures on the path of cultivating immortality, with no hope of advancing. That''s why they have fallen to live among ordinary people.

    But there is a huge gap between cultivators and ordinary people. Once they have descendants, in just a few years, they can take over most of the vige''s belongings. It was the same for Lin Jiang when he bought the Ascension Order from the Qi family. And now Huang Liang is almost the same. It''s just that his children have not grown up yet. In another ten or twenty years, Huangmu Vige will truly belong to the Huang family.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    But this still makes Lin Jiang unable to bear it. Huangmu Vige seems worthless to him. Ten spirit stones could buy everything in the vige. Even though it may not have much value, his blood and sweat are in everything in this vige.

    Every wooden house, courtyard, farnd in the valley, and road in the vige, he has participated in their creation. He has emotional attachments to all of them.

    "Lin, you...Well, you dare to scheme against the immortal, I tell you, you''re finished, you''re done..."

    Mrs. Xu pointed at Lin Jiang and yelled. Lin Jiang rolled his eyes at this foolish woman. She doesn''t even know how to curse properly. If it weren''t for Huang Liang backing her up, any woman in the vige could easily make her blood boil with curses.

    Lin Jiang ignored her and went to Third Aunt''s house with his prey. When Third Aunt saw Lin Jianging, she smiled.

    "Lin Kai,e here. I made you new clothes, take a look."

    "There is no doubt about Third Aunt''s skills. First process the prey, it''s hot outside, don''t ruin them."

    Lin Jiang said, he put away everything from the cultivator. The things that have been mended in the house over the past few years were all done by Third Aunt. At first, she wanted to impress Lin Jiang and make him marry her daughter. Butter on, she realized that Lin Jiang had no intention of doing so and had already gotten used to it.

    "Alright, there is so much game today. Two rabbits and three wild chickens. That''s enough to eat for several days."

    "Take good care of yourself, rest for a few more days during confinement, so you won''t suffer when you get old."

    "Lin Kai, you really know how to care for others. Unlike... well, never mind. I''ll go take care of it."

    Third Aunt said, her daughter is looking for a son-inw, a son-inw whoes to their door. How many good men can be son-inws? She just finds her daughter''s husband too dull and honest.

    Lin Jiang doesn''t talk much. He thinks Third Aunt''s son-inw is already good enough. It''s sufficient to have someone who is honest and reliable. Why does he need anything more, like a bicycle? Who would bother bing a son-inw?

    In the evening, people who went out to work started to return. Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan heard about the conflict between Lin Jiang and Mrs. Xu. They came to advise Lin Jiang, asking him to apologize to Mrs. Xu. If he does that, the matter will be over. After all, Lin Jiang is an influential figure in the vige.

    "No need to apologize, I''m not in the mood for it."

    "Lin Kai, please don''t act stubborn. That''s the wife of a magical being."

    "Uncle Xiao, Fang Yuan, I have a question for you."

    "Go ahead, ask."

    "Have you ever thought about your sons and grandsons bing servants to Huang Liang''s sons and grandsons in the future?"

    "Um..."

    The Huang family has taken over our vige. If you''re still alive, show some respect to Huang Liang. In another ten or twenty years, when you''re gone, will anyone in the vige dare to oppose them?

    We went through hardships and escaped from far away just to survive. Is that all we''re living for? When we asked other viges for help, why didn''t we agree to be servants?

    As human beings, we need to live, that''s true. But we also need to live with dignity. We need to ensure that our future generations have dignity too. We are the masters of Huangmu Vige, and Huang Liang was invited by us. We cannot let him be the master over us.

    Lin Jiang said to them, other viges may not be able to change this oue, but Huangmu Vige absolutely cannot change it either, he won''t allow it.

    "Um..."

    Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan were shocked, they had considered this before, but they were just ordinary people, how could they fight against immortals? The children of immortals might even be immortals themselves, but their own children were only ordinary people.

    "Good kid, I didn''t expect that out of your 100-pound body, 90 pounds would be rebellious. It seems like Huangmu Vige is keeping you for a reason."

    Just when Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan couldn''t argue back, a voice exploded at the door. Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan turned around and their faces immediately changed. Huang Liang had actually heard their conversation.

 Chapter 112

    Chapter 112

    Huangmu Vige

    Huang Liang was very angry in his heart. Today, when he came back from the spiritualnd, he heard his wife exaggerating the situation. He was only slightly annoyed, thinking that mere mortals were disrespecting his wife, which meant they were disrespecting him. This wind must not be allowed to rise, he had to teach Lin Jiang a lesson.

    But outside the door, he heard Lin Jiang''s words and was already furious. How dare a mere mortal utter such disrespectful words? He must be killed.

    He, a great cultivator, graciously came to Huangmu Vige to protect everyone. It was only right that the vige''s belongings should be offered to him. But this boy is so arrogant. How can he stay?

    "I apologize, immortal. Lin Kai is still young. Please don''tpare yourself to him."

    "Immortal, Lin Kai didn''t mean any harm."

    "Lin Kai, quickly apologize to the immortal!"

    Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan, upon hearing this, quickly begged for forgiveness from Huang Liang and urged Lin Jiang to do the same.

    Lin Jiang looked at Xiao Yuan and the others, feeling both sad and understanding. They had always relied on cultivators for protection, and their way of thinking was ingrained.So, looking back now,ing to the Lin family was actually quite fortunate for him.

    "Lin Kai, if you kneel and beg for forgiveness, I will let you go today. Just leave Huangmu Vige. But if you continue to be arrogant, I will show you the consequences of offending an immortal."

    Huang Liang had already made up his mind. He would drive away this boy and kill him outside the vige. This would preserve the loyalty of the vigers, considering this boy''s rtively high status in Huangmu Vige.

    "I am not talented, but I am willing to go against the immortals as an ordinary person."

    With just one sentence from Lin Jiang, the expressions on the faces of all three people changed drastically, and Xiao Yuan quickly grabbed hold of Lin Jiang.

    "Lin Kai, don''t do something foolish."

    "Lin Kai, are you crazy? Get down on your knees and beg for mercy."

    "Lin Kai, don''t be silly. That is a celestial being."

    Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan shouted in disbelief. Mortals going against the immortals, what an arrogant statement, what a foolish idea.

    "Fine, fine, fine. This immortal is willing to spare you, but since you''re looking for death, don''t me me. Since you''re a mortal, you can make the first move."

    Huang Liang couldn''t help butugh in anger. Mortals going against the immortals, it has been so many years since something like this has happened. Well, if that''s the case, he will make his move and don''t me him for being ruthless.

    "I was involved in building every house and brick in Huangmu Vige. It would be a shame to see it all destroyed. How about a battle outside the vige?"

    "As you wish, haha..."

    "Please wait a moment, I''ll be right there."

    Lin Jiang said, without hesitation Huang Liang also turned around and summoned his flying sword, flying away on it.

    "Uncle Xiao, Fang Yuan, don''t be rmed, I''ll be back soon, don''t follow me."

    "Lin Kaiбдбдбд"

    "Help me warm up the wine and prepare the meat, I''ll be back in an hour at most."

    Lin Jiang said, in ancient times there was Guan Yu warming up wine to kill Hua Xiong, now there''s Lin Jiang warming up wine to kill immortals, won''t that be a great tale?

    Lin Jiang activated his body technique and swiftly flew across the roofs in the vige. His speed was so fast that ordinary people couldn''t keep up, they only saw a ck shadow pass by.

    "Lin Kai has amazing lightness skill."

    Xiao Yuan was also surprised, he really didn''t know that Lin Kai had such a light skill.

    "Uncle Xiao, do you want toe and see?"

    "Ah, no, let''s prepare food and drinks. We can go to mourn for Lin Kaiter. He was indeed arrogant this time."

    Xiao Yuan shook his head. He instinctively felt that Lin Kai was doomed, but what could he do? He couldn''t stop it, he was helpless in the end.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Outside the vige

    Huang Liang, with his hands behind his back, saw Lin Jiang using light skills to swiftly approach. He quite liked this light skill. If more people in the vige learned it, hunting and gathering herbs would be much easier in the future, and his descendants would have a more prosperous life.

    "Lin Kai, are you ready to die?"

    "Hmph, die? Who knows who will die. Just at the fifth level of Qi Refining, he dares to call himself a fairy. It''s simply a joke."

    "You..."

    Huang Liang got very angry, but then suddenly he was shocked, because he had never told anyone in the vige about his abilities, so how could this person know?

    "What, is the cultivator really so easily scared by just one sentence?"

    "Hmph, no matter what trick you''re trying to y, a deity is still a deity, while a mortal is just a mortal. Today, you''re doomed."

    "Is that so? Maybe you should look behind you then."

    "This kind of trickery can also... ah, ah..."

    At first, Huang Liang didn''t care, thinking it was just a small trick. But when a dark shadow covered him, he suddenly turned around and saw a huge bird face staring at him, making him scream in fright.

    "Brother, I want to eat him."

    Big Shadiao said, its mouth watering already. Since Lin Jiang arrived in this strange ce, it hadn''t had a good meal. It had eaten all the demon beasts within hundreds of miles, but those demon beasts were at most at thete phase of the first stage, which wasn''t enough for it. It had been hungry for several years.

    "Talking with mouth, a three-level monster"

    Huang Liang''s heart turned cold now. Oh, a three-level monster! This is equivalent to a three-level monster in the Golden Core Period. How can it be here? Huangmu Vige has this ancestor. Why did they invite him?

    "Big Shadiao, eating it will upset your stomach. It''s not good to have vomiting and diarrheater."

    "Really?"

    "Yes, by then you won''t be able to defeat Small Shadiao anymore. It will press you down and rub against you on the ground."

    "I won''t eat, I won''t eat."

    Big Shadiao quickly covered its mouth with its wings. It must not eat, it''s too scary. Otherwise, it could peck him to death with one bite.

    "What do you think, are you convinced?"

    Lin Jiang grabbed Big Shadiao''s mouth, preventing it from killing anyone. He really had no interest in cultivating immortality.

    "I admit my mistake, senior. I didn''t know you were hiding here. Please spare me."

    Huang Liang dared not mention what happened earlier. He only saw Lin Jiang as an old and mysterious creature, no wonder his spiritual sense didn''t sense anything. Guess it''s because of their profound cultivation.

    "Why are you being so timid? How about recovering a bit?"

    "I dare not, senior. Please spare me."

    "You''re not even a bit courageous. I feel awkward about killing you."

    "Senior..."

    Huang Liang was on the verge of tears. Where did this Shadiao seniore from? Why would they leave the prosperous cultivation city to be with ordinary people?

    "Forget it, killing you would be pointless. So, do you know what to do then?"

    "From now on, does the senior have the final say in Huangmu Vige?"

    "Really?"

    "Ah, well, um..."

    "From now on, you have the final say in Huangmu Vige. I''m just an ordinary viger in Huangmu Vige, understand?"

    "Understood, understood, understood, elder."

    "Choosing a virtuous wife is the key to the prosperity of our family in Huangmu Vige. The life of the vigers is not easy, so I hope you take good care of yourself."

    Lin Jiang nodded and left after saying a few words. He asked Big Shadiao to continue lurking nearby. Nobody has ever discovered Big Shadiao in these many years, probably because this ce is remote and there aren''t many cultivators around.

    In Lin Jiang''s home, Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan sighed while preparing food and drinks to offer as tribute to Lin Jiang. Suddenly, they were startled when they saw Lin Jiang return.

    "Lin Kai, you, you..."

    "I''m alive, not dead."

    "Ah"

    Both of them were shocked, they could truly feel Huang Liang''s murderous intent, why did they let Lin Jiang go.

    "Lin Kai, why didn''t the immortal kill you"

    "I think the immortal knew he was in the wrong. He told me, ''A wise wife keeps her husband out of trouble,'' so it''s his wife''s fault."

    "Um, um..."

    "Really, the yellow immortal is a good person."

    Lin Jiang continued to deceive, whether you believe it or not, I believe it.

    "What sound"

    "It sounds like Mrs. Xu''s wailing"

    "What''s wrong with her?"

    A little while after Lin Jiang finished speaking, they heard a sound of distressing from the vige, like the screaming of a pig. Wasn''t that Mrs. Xu''s voice?

    "Get lost! I''m dealing with my wife. It''s none of your business. All of you, get lost! Don''t eavesdrop or spy."

    Just as the three of them were about to go and enjoy themotion, Huang Liang''s loud shout came through. Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan shrunk their necks and retreated.

    "Come,e,e. Let''s eat, drink, there''s nothing interesting to see."

    Lin Jiang wasn''t interested. What''s so interesting about beating your wife, unless it''s in the bedroom?

    After this incident, Huang Liang became more friendly in the eyes of many people. Although he continued to collect offerings as usual, when the vigers sent supplies, he would say thank you. The women and children in his household were also strictly prohibited from going out. He no longer oppressed the vigers and even helped with their medical needs. Even when Xiao Yuan went out to trade, Huang Liang would rmend reliable businesses.

    Lin Jiang was very satisfied with this. He was really afraid that Huang Liang was foolish. Dealing with smart people was much easier than dealing with fools.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    As the days passed, Lin Jiang began to consider leaving. He didn''te to the mortal world to show off, but to prepare for joining the Five Elements Sect. Zhang Ye had said that after abandoning cultivation, one should avoid contact with spiritual energy. After three to five years, it would be difficult for others to notice. It had been almost eight years now.

    "Forget it, stay for two more years, make it a total of ten years, just to be on the safe side."

    Lin Jiang hesitated for a long time and felt it would be better to be cautious. Joining the Five Elements Sect was a big deal and he couldn''t afford to make any mistakes. It wouldn''t be a big deal if he couldn''t be a disciple, but if the Five Elements Sect mistook him for a spy and got rid of him, that would be extremely bad.

    After making up his mind, Lin Jiang started to enjoy his life. He worked on the fields, hunted animals, yed with the children in the vige, and became the king of the children. It felt quitefortable.

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113

    Huangmu Vige

    On the hill behind the vige, Huang Liang cautiously approached Lin Jiang. He looked at the bird that was even bigger than him next to Lin Jiang and started sweating with cold sweat.

    "I have seen the senior."

    "Not bad, you came just in time."

    "I wonder if the senior has any advice to offer."

    "I am getting ready to leave Huangmu Vige, and I need your help with a small favor."

    "It is an honor for me to serve someone older and more experienced."

    Huang Liang said tteringly. Great! This "esteemed deity" is finally leaving. He no longer needs to be so careful.

    "Here is a token. Use your spiritual power to activate it. Within three to five days, someone wille to pick me up. I want to join their group as a mortal. You must remember my identity: I am the son of an ordinary farmer from Machao Vige. About ten years ago, Machao Vige was destroyed by monsters, and we fled here with the vigers. I am fifteen years old this year, and the token was handed down by my ancestors..."Lin Jiang said. Machao Vige is Xiao Yuan''s vige. It was one of the three viges that were destroyed. There aren''t many people left alive in Machao Vige now. In a few decades, when these people have died out, his identity will be unquestionable.

    "Um..."

    Huang Liang was suddenly dumbfounded. This meant he had to infiltrate the sect as a spy.

    "Let me exin. I have already nned everything for you. If you are discovered, I might be able to escape, but your whole family will definitely be wiped out. You have no choice now."

    Lin Jiang said to Huang Liang. He must be over sixty years old now. In the past few years, he has had seven children in Huangmu Vige. The oldest is almost six years old. Huang Liang has no time or energy to go elsewhere. His family is now his greatest vulnerability.

    "Yes, yes, senior, I dare not."

    "Give you two hours to think through the details you should, and then activate it."

    Lin Jiang threw the Ascension Order to him. The Ascension Order has two ways of being used. One is to take the token to the Five Elements Sect, and the other is to activate it with spiritual power. Naturally, the Five Elements Sect will send someone to pick him up.

    Huangmu Vige is thousands of miles away from the Five Elements Sect. Lin Jiang himself can''t make it unless he takes the Big Shadiao. And it''s not reliable for Huang Liang to escort him. With only the strength of Qi Refining fifth level, he might be killed halfway. Having the Five Elements Secte to pick him up is the most secure option.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Greetings, senior."

    Five dayster, two disciples from the Five Elements Sect appeared in Huangmu Vige, and Huang Liang weed them right away.

    "Are you the resident cultivator here?"

    "Yes, senior."

    "Who triggered the Ascension Order of my Five Elements Sect?"

    "Reporting to the senior, it was me, but I was triggered by someone else."

    Huang Liang''s heart tightened, he thought it was an Ascension Order from some small sect, but he didn''t expect it to be from the Five Elements Sect. He''s in trouble now, he''s done for this time.

    "Where is the person?"

    "Oh, I''ll call the person for you right away."

    Huang Liang quickly called for Lin Jiang, who was busy working. Lin Jiang had juste back from the field and was covered in mud.

    "Kid, is this token yours?"

    "Yes, it belongs to me, sir."

    "How did youe here?"

    "What my father gave me before he died."

    "Tell me in detail, what happened?"

    "Yes, immortal."

    Lin Jiang exined everything in detail, which was the story he made up earlier.

    "Taoist friend, can you guarantee that what he said is true?"

    "I think so. I''m the only cultivator in this vige. They all moved from other viges because the previous ones were affected by monsters. If you don''t believe it, you can investigate."

    "Child,e here."

    The disciples of the Five Elements Sect didn''t have the time for this. He just listened carefully for a while and indeed heard some vigers talking about past events.

    Lin Jiang approached the disciple of the Five Elements Sect, and the man directly ced his hand on Lin Jiang''s shoulder, his consciousness entering Lin Jiang''s body.

    "His energy channels are different from ordinary people, but there are no other problems."

    The person turned around and said to the others. There is no spiritual energy detected in his body, no cultivation level detected either, only his energy channels are stronger than ordinary people. However, this detection cannot determine how strong his energy channels are.

    "Then there is no problem."

    The others said. Some people have extraordinary talents, so their energy channels are stronger than those of ordinary people. It''s not something rare, there are even more special cases.

    "Child, would you be willing to join our Five Elements Sect?"

    "Immortal, can I also be an immortal?"

    "Of course."

    "Then I''m willing. Immortal, does that mean I won''t have to farm anymore?"

    "Haha, that''s not necessarily the case."

    The disciple of the Five Elements Sectughed loudly and said. The mostmon upation in the Five Elements Sect is a Spiritual Farmer. They have to farm.

    "Ah, so even after bing an immortal, they still have to farm?"

    "So, are you going or not?"

    "I will go. In any case, it''s all farming. I want to farm the fields of immortals."

    "Okay, let''s go back then."

    One person said, without much investigation. Firstly, they didn''t believe that a young child and an independent cultivator with Qi Refining dare deceive them. Secondly, even if they were to join the sect, it depends on the situation. If they are merely outer disciples, it doesn''t matter, as they won''t have ess to the core. If they were to be inner disciples, for example, then others would naturally verify.

    "This is ten spirit stones for your settlement fee. He doesn''t have any family left, so we''re giving it to you."

    A disciple of the Five Elements Sect threw ten spirit stones for Huang Liang''s settlement fee and then flew away. Huang Liang looked at the spirit stones in his hand and fell into deep thought.

    That night, Huang Liang lit a huge incense stick at home. When the aroma of the incense filled the entire vige, he carefully took away several children, carrying and hugging them. He was running away, leaving behind his wife and concubine. Women are everywhere, but the children are the hope.

    "Cheep..."

    However, not long after flying, he saw a huge creature appear beside him. He turned his head and saw a gigantic bird head beside him, and Huang Liang almost fell off.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Name"

    "Xiao Yi"

    "Age"

    "Fifteen"

    "Spiritual Root"

    "What?"

    "What''s happening? You don''t even know your Spiritual Root? Come here, let''s test again."

    The disciple from the Five Elements Sect grumbled unhappily, then pulled Lin Jiang to the Spirit Measuring tform. After pricking Lin Jiang''s finger, he dropped a drop of blood into the Spirit Measuring tform.

    "All five elements areplete. Another Five Spiritual Roots."

    "Immortal..."

    "From now on, call me Martial Uncle or Senior Brother, not ''Immortal,'' it''s embarrassing."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Five Spiritual Roots, you can be an outer disciple. Next."

    The disciple wrote down the record on Lin Jiang''s Identity Jade Disc and then called the next person.

    "Martial Uncle, isn''t our Five Elements Sect focused on nurturing talents with Five Spiritual Roots? Why is he still an outer disciple?"

    A boy beside Lin Jiang said, Lin Jiang turned around and said thank you in his heart, he also wanted to ask this question.

    "Joke, out of ten cultivators, eight either have Five Spiritual Roots or Four Spiritual Roots. If we consider Five Spiritual Roots to be superior, then everyone would be an inner disciple, wouldn''t they?"

    "But, Martial Uncle, that''s what everyone outside says."

    "It''s just a rumor, but Five Elements Sect does indeed have the opportunity to be an inner disciple or even a true disciple. This is an opportunity that other sects don''t have. Someone will tell you the specificster, for now let''s move on to the next one."

    A disciple of Five Elements Sect casually exined a few words and hurriedly registered information for the next person. Lin Jiang held the Jade Disc and entered the outer gate of Five Elements Sect with a few others.

    "Nice to meet you, my name is Yue Qing. Ie from the Yue family in Nanjiang. I have an uncle who is a steward in the outer gate of Five Elements Sect. And what about you?"

    "I''m Peng An. My ancestors were once disciples of Five Elements Sect, but now my family is independent cultivators."

    "My name is Ji Wen, same as Peng An."

    "I''m Xiao Yi, a farmer in the vige."

    Lin Jiang said that Xiao Yi is Xiao Yuan''s son''s name, which was originally chosen by Lin Jiang. Let Xiao Yuan have a little advantage because this name sounds cool.

    "Farming?"

    Yue Qing was speechless. The Five Elements Sect no longer epts disciples from the ordinary world unless they discover a talented disciple. Why would there be farmers?

    So quickly, the small team of four, Lin Jiang became the invisible person, and the other three naturally formed a group. This is called having amon topic.

    The four of them lived in the same courtyard, each with their own small room. But they were very small, even smaller than the rented house Lin Jiang had in a certain vige. There was hardly any space besides a bed and a small table.

    On the first day of the Five Elements Sect, everyone was excited. Yue Qing also invited Lin Jiang to discuss cultivation together. The three of them had never formally practiced cultivation before. The oldest was only thirteen years old, but their families all had cultivators, so they were familiar with cultivation. Their wish was to be Building Foundation cultivators because Building Foundation Period was the highest cultivation level they could aspire to. In their eyes, Building Foundation Period was already very powerful and prestigious.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    The next day, a disciple from the Five Elements Sect led them to familiarize themselves with the outer sect, but only in a small area because the outer sect of the Five Elements Sect was veryrge.

    The Five Elements Sect''s main gate covers an area of thousands of miles, but the core area of the inner sect is only a few tens of miles. The other ces are considered part of the outer sect.

    When the disciple found out that all four of them could read, hezily handed them a small booklet and told them to read it on their own. He didn''t bother giving them any more instructions.

    Yue Qing and his friends were very familiar with the outer gate area. They had done their homework at home and could recognize everything without looking. Only Lin Jiang was busy reading a book.

    On the third day, Lin Jiang and his friends became members of the Shanxue School, which is part of the Five Elements Sect. They didn''t need to attend a beginner ss because they could read, so they went straight to the practice ss.

    However, the practice ss wasn''t all about practicing. They also learned some basic knowledge about cultivating immortality, such as meridians, acupoints, and different levels of cultivation.

    These things were very basic but very important. If they couldn''t learn them, their cultivation would be in danger. Losing control and getting possessed by evil spirits was a definite possibility.

    Lin Jiang had learned about these things in the Lin family, but the teachings in the Lin family couldn''tpare to those in the Five Elements Sect. The knowledge was the same, but the key was the quality of the teachers. The instructors in the Five Elements Sect were specially trained to teach neers. It was like having top-level teachers in Blue Star.

    Yue Qing had also learned about these things at home, but it wasn''t systematic. They had to start learning from scratch. This part, overall, was not difficult. It was simply a matter of studying and memorizing.

    None of the four of them acted immature or restless like typical children. They appeared quite mature and were diligent in their studies. Skipping ss was nonexistent; each of them was hardworking.

    After about a month, Lin Jiang graduated from the practice ss along with Yue Qing and his friends. This level of strength was already impressive to the instructors at the Shanxue School because they knew that Yue Qing and his friends had family teachings, while Lin Jiang was aplete beginner.

    After graduating from the practice ss, they continued learning real cultivation.

    These cultivation techniques are selected based on your Spiritual Root. They may not perfectly match with you, but you can practice them for now. If they don''t suit you in the future, you can choose different techniques. The techniques collected by our Five Elements Sect are the best in Yun State, and there are plenty of them.

    It''s worth noting, disciples with Five Spiritual Roots, the cultivation technique you will practice is called ''Five Elements Sitting Zen ssic.'' It is a simplified version of our sect''s main technique, Five Spirit Manual. If you can break through threeyers in one year without external assistance, you can be promoted to the inner sect and learn the true Five Spirit Manual, or you can choose the Unity Art and Hunyuan Treasure Book. There is also a greater chance of bing a true disciple.

    "Master, if we can''t break through threeyers in one year, does that mean we won''t have a chance to learn the main technique?"

    "That''s not the case. If you can build a solid foundation and contribute to the sect after entering the inner sect, relying on Merit Points, you can still obtain it."

    "Thank you, Master."

    Lin Jiang replied, he had made up his mind not to be a genius. Being a genius attracted too much attention and made it easy to expose his true abilities. He decided to follow the ordinary path of those with Five Spiritual Roots.

 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114

    Five Elements Sect

    On the tenth day of his cultivation at Shanxue School, Lin Jiang once again guided his breath into his body. Of course, he did so with deliberate control. Otherwise, with his mid-stage Foundation Building cultivation, he could have done it in just one night.

    Now Lin Jiang''s speed is not much different from others. Yue Qing, who is in the same courtyard, took seven days. Qiwen took nine days, and Peng An, like Lin Jiang, took eleven days.

    However, this is enough for Yue Qing and the others to look up to Lin Jiang because in their eyes, Lin Jiang started from scratch. Peng An also has a cultivator in his family. ording to the statistics from the Five Elements Sect, it takes an average of two weeks for someone with Five Spiritual Roots to cultivate their energy.

    Once they have achieved a certain level of cultivation, the outer disciples can receive a sry. They receive one spirit stone per month, along with a bottle of Qi Gathering Pills containing five pills. Lin Jiang checked them and found that the quality of the Qi Gathering Pills was very poor and they were full of impurities. Lin Jiang didn''t eat them at all. He believed that it was better to continue his hard cultivation instead of taking such pills.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    But Yue Qing and the others were happy with their meals. Although they have support from their families, they cannot bring it here because Shanxue School doesn''t allow it. They believe that if they receive support too early, it would not be beneficial for the disciples to build a solid foundation.

    Shanxue School is the mostfortable time for new disciples. During this phase, new disciples don''t have to do anything except learn and cultivate. However, once they reach the mid-term of Qi Refining or after three years, they will automatically leave Shanxue School and have to take on responsibilities. They will be given specific tasks every year, or else they will lose all rewards from the school.

    "This time, Xiao Yi deserves the reward. Xiao Yi also has Five Spiritual Roots and had no previous cultivation foundation. However, he has been much more diligent than all of you. In less than two months, he sessfully learned the Fireball Spell and his cultivation is progressing rapidly. He has alreadypleted half of the first stage of Qi Refining..."Two monthster, Lin Jiang was praised publicly by the masters of Shanxue School. Among the many new disciples, Lin Jiang showed the most improvement, leaving a good impression on the masters.

    During this period of time, Lin Jiang indeed worked very hard. It was a night-and-day differencepared to his time at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. This is also why Lin Jiang doesn''t really want to stay in Shanxue School. It''s full of young kids, and he, an old monster of over two hundred years, doesn''t fit in here.

    The rule at Shanxue School is that rewards are given without punishment. Every three months, the person who makes the most progress will receive a bottle of Qi Gathering Pills and three spirit stones. For those who don''t make progress, the school won''t bother with them. They will be kicked out once three years have passed.

    There are rules in the sect when you turn sixty. If you haven''t built a foundation by then, the sect will abandon you. Most people will leave, but a few are allowed to stay.

    Lin Jiang epted the praise from the teacher nervously. Yue Qing and the others secretly made up their minds to surpass Lin Jiang next time and receive praise from the teacher.

    Shanxue School is also very good at exams.

    After ss, Lin Jiang would actively seek out the teacher to ask questions. The teacher patiently answers. The disciples of Shanxue School are not qualified to go to the Library Pavilion to read books. Everything relies on the teacher''s answers.

    Lin Jiang''s questions are deeper than what he learns in ss, and the teacher teaches him many things that Shanxue School doesn''t teach, under Lin Jiang''s guidance.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    "Five Elements Sitting Zen ssic is a cultivation technique thatbines elements from the Five Spirit Manual and Sitting Zen ssic. It is not of high quality, but it is especially suitable for beginners with poor talent. The key is that Five Elements Sitting Zen ssic can perfectly integrate with the three great mountain-sealing techniques of Five Elements Sect."

    Inside Five Elements Sect, Lin Jiang summarizes the content of Shanxue School. Now it is his third year of initiation, and he is already two hundred and twenty-one years old. If he were an ordinary person who hadn''t built a foundation, he would have reached the limit long ago, but Lin Jiang still looks like he''s seventeen.

    Inside the Five Elements Sect, as long as he advances ording to the normal cultivator''s schedule, there is no problem. He will build his foundation before 60 years old and form his core before 200 years old.

    Of course, it''s not so easy to reach the level of Pill Formation. But before that, he can find a suitable cultivation technique for himself and then run away.

    The only thing Lin Jiang is worried about is the Soul Lamp. Outer disciples don''t need a Soul Lamp but once they reach the Foundation Building stage, they automatically advance to inner disciple and have to leave behind a Soul Lamp in the sect. Before that, Lin Jiang needs to take care of this matter.

    "The Five Spirit Manual should be the most suitable cultivation technique for me. It is bnced and peaceful, although it advances slowly and requires the most spiritual energy, it is the most suitable for me."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, the three major foundational cultivation techniques of the Five Elements Sect are suitable for those with Five Spiritual Roots, but not for every individual with Five Spiritual Roots. For example, the Unity Secret emphasizes everything returning to one, to practice this technique, one must identify a main Spiritual Root within their body and then transform the spiritual energy of other Spiritual Roots into the spiritual energy of the main Spiritual Root. It''splicated and dangerous, but it is faster than practicing the Five Spirit Manual. It can alsopare to those with only two or three Spiritual Roots.

    The Hunyuan Treasure Book requires all five types of Spiritual Roots to be bnced, and the cultivation environment must have all five elements present. Then, the five types of Spiritual Roots can be fused into the primordial energy.

    This cultivation technique is the most powerful in terms of strength, but it also has the highest requirements and is equally dangerous. It requires a powerful awareness to merge the primordial energy. If one''s awareness can''t keep up, it''s easy to be harmed by the primordial energy.

    Only the Five Spirit Manual is the safest. Although the cultivation speed is slower, it doesn''t matter to Lin Jiang. He has plenty of time, so he can take it slow.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Reporting to Martial Uncle, disciple Xiao Yi here to request leave."

    After graduating from Shanxue School, the disciples have the opportunity to take a leave. The sect not only gives them a leave of up to one month, but also provides benefits such as those swords that are not of high grade in the cultivation world but are considered powerful weapons in the mortal world. There are also some herbal medicines that can improve health. In the cultivation world, they are considered basic medicines, but to ordinary people, they are still miraculous elixirs.

    Lin Jiang didn''t forget to take advantage of the situation. He took everything he could and then left the gate of the Five Elements Sect. He traveled for a whole day and then released the Small Shadiao. They flew all the way to Huangmu Vige to pick up the Big Shadiao.

    In the blink of an eye, after a long journey, Big Shadiao came out early to wee them, calling out "Brother, Brother" non-stop.

    Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao had reached the third stage for almost twenty years, but their intelligence grew very slowly. Lin Jiang wanted to give them some Benefit Spirit Pills to eat, but the price discouraged him.

    However, Lin Jiang made a Master-Servant Contract with Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. Through secret techniques, Big Shadiao could share some of its memories with Lin Jiang. Through this secret technique, Lin Jiang learned about what had happened in Huangmu Vige during his absence.

    Overall, Huangmu Vige was developing well. The poption had increased significantly. With the addition of newborns, the poption had reached more than two hundred. It had been over ten years, and the original children had grown up. The issue ofbor shortage in Huangmu Vige had been effectively improved.

    Huang Liang had tried to escape several times, but was scared back by Big Shadiao. Big Shadiao also taught him a profound lesson by breaking his leg. It took a year for Huang Liang to recover from his injury. Over these years, Huang Liang lived in constant fear and more than half of his hair had turned white.

    Lin Jiang retrieved his former storage bag and took out two third-stage Demon Cores, giving one to Big Shadiao and one to Small Shadiao. They had gone through a lot with Lin Jiang over the past decade, so this was a smallpensation.

    After putting away Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, Lin Jiang arrived in Huangmu Vige. Huang Liang, Xiao Yuan, and others quickly became rmed. Lin Jiang wasn''t even hiding this time; he appeared openly and honestly.

    "Lin Kai, you''vee back!"

    "Lin Kai, I heard you went to practice magic, have you be a wizard?"

    "Lin Kai, can you fly?"

    "Lin Kaiбдбдбдбд"

    Many vigers had countless questions for Lin Jiang. They chattered nonstop, but Lin Jiang responded with the kindest smile.

    "Uncle Xiao, I''m back. Let''s gather the vigers for dinner tonight. I''ll treat them and we can talk slowly."

    Lin Jiang said, then he took out a piece of monster meat from his bag. It was minced and mixed with regr meat, not because Lin Jiang was stingy, but because their bodies couldn''t handle too much. Eating too much would cause them to explode.

    "Alright, alright, I''ll go get people."

    Xiao Yuan''s face lit up with surprise. He quickly went to gather everyone, while Lin Jiang told Fang Yuan to disperse the crowd and went back to his busy work.

    After finishing everything, Lin Jiang turned around and looked at the neglected Huang Liang. He also had to consider his own affairs. This cause and effect shoulde to an end.

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115

    Huangmu Vige

    Inside Huang Liang''s home, Lin Jiang casually set up a simple soundproof barrier, isting Huang Liang''s family from prying eyes.

    "Sir..."

    "Sit."

    "Thank you, sir."

    "I have returned this time to tie up all loose ends here."

    "Ah..."

    Huang Liang eximed in shock, his face quickly bing pale.

    "It seems that you know what I''m going to do.""Sir, I am already seventy-two years old this year, I can''t live for another twenty years, spare me please."

    "I really want to forgive you, but you have been behaving poorly these past few years."

    Lin Jiang said, if it wasn''t for him leaving Big Shadiao to watch over him, this guy would have escaped long ago. If he escaped, it would mean that Lin Jiang''s secret would be at risk. So, he had to die, no negotiations. Even if God came, he would still die.

    "Sir..."

    "Perhaps you can take a risk. I am only at the fourth level of Qi Refining right now."

    "I..."

    Huang Liang''s face became haggard. How could he dare to take a risk? If he had this courage a few years ago...

    "You arrived at Huangmu Vige more than nine years ago and already severed your path to immortality. You are now 72 years old and will at most live for another hundred years. You only have around twenty years left. Your only hope now is your children."

    "Yes."

    "So I will give you a choice. Either you take a chance and fight. If you win, you will live for another twenty or thirty years and also gain my opportunity. But if you lose, your whole family will die. The second option is for you tomit suicide. I will take care of your wife and children. If your son has a Spiritual Root, he will have the chance to cultivate immortality."

    "Senior, why resort to such aggressive tactics? I am just a humble independent cultivator. Even if it''s for my family, I would never reveal your secret."

    "No, I only trust the dead to keep secrets."

    "What about them, the vigers?"

    "They won''t die, they will live well."

    "Why, on what basis are they treating them so differently?"

    "It''s easy, they are our own people, they are my friends."

    Lin Jiang said that he spent about eleven years with the people of Huangmu Vige, working tirelessly to build the vige. He felt a special bond with them and treated them as his own family. However, Huang Liang and his family never really integrated into Huangmu Vige.

    From the very beginning, they acted superior and treated the vige as their personal property, and the vigers as servants.

    "Um..."

    "We make our own choices in life, don''t we? If you had considered me a friend, things wouldn''t have turned out this way. Give me an answer before tomorrow morning."

    Lin Jiang exined that if Huang Liang had sincerely treated every viger well during his time in Huangmu Vige, Lin Jiang wouldn''t have to kill him. Instead, he would offer him an opportunity.

    "In the Five Elements Sect, you definitely wouldn''t go by the name Lin Kai. The vigers outside would know, and they would expose you."

    Huang Liang struggled, but Lin Jiang ignored him and continued walking away.

    Lin Jiang predicted that he would break through the Building foundation around the age of sixty. Currently, he was only eighteen, so he had more than forty years. By that time, Xiao Yuan and the others would have passed away. Lin Jiang would ensure a smooth transition for the younger generation by creating a story for them, even though it might have some ws or gaps, but the logic would be sound.

    As for taking risks, Lin Jiang didn''t mind. He would do his best to minimize the risks to the lowest possible level.

    In the evening, Huangmu Vige held a big feast. Lin Jiang himself went hunting and brought back some wild beasts. There was unlimited food and drink, everyone was happy tonight.

    The next morning, Huang Liang died. Hemitted suicide by breaking his own meridians. There were no visible wounds. Lin Jiang told everyone that Huang Liang died peacefully in his sleep and promised him a grand funeral.

    "Lin Kai, the immortal has died, and our vige is left without an immortal to protect us. What should we do?"

    Xiao Yuan became panicked again. The immortal was too important for the vigers.

    "Does Uncle Xiao want me to stay?"

    "Yes, Lin Kai. Now that we finally have an immortal in Huangmu Vige, you have to help us."

    "I won''t stay."

    "Ah"

    "But I will help you cultivate more immortals."

    Lin Jiang said. I have a Magic Measuring Stone, it can detect Magical Ability. I can''t believe that I can''t find anyone with Magical Ability.

    Xiao Yuan felt a little dizzy after hearing this. He never knew that they could be wizards too!

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    After Huang Liang''s funeral, Lin Jiang gathered everyone in the vige who were under forty years old and over ten years old to test their Magical Ability. The requirements were much lower than in the cultivation world, but it didn''t matter. Lin Jiang didn''t want them to be immortal, he just wanted them to have basic self-protection abilities.

    Out of the more than seventy people, only one person was found to have Magical Ability, and that was Fang Yuan. Lin Jiang was speechless. The chances of an ordinary person having Magical Ability were really small, but fortunately, Fang Yuan had Three Magical Abilities, so there was some hope.

    Lin Jiang had collected many cultivation techniques, so he chose a suitable one for Fang Yuan and taught him how to practice. Lin Jiang would stay for about half a month, but he wouldn''t live in the vige. He would find another ce to stay.

    "Uncle Xiao, I want to talk to you about something."

    "Lin Kai, what is it?"

    "In the sect, they call me Xiao Yi."

    "What? I''m going to be your dad?"

    "Uncle Xiao, did I mean this?"

    "But my son''s name is Xiao Yi."

    "Fake identity."

    "Oh, oh, I understand now."

    Xiao Yi suddenly realized that Lin Kai had used a fake identity, making him happy for nothing. He thought Lin Kai was going to acknowledge him as his dad, considering that he treated both Lin Kai and Fang Yuan as his own sons.

    "Uncle Xiao didn''t grasp the seriousness of this matter. If the sect finds out, I will die, and you will die too. Our entire Huangmu Vige will die."

    "Ah, that''s so serious."

    "That''s exactly how serious it is."

    "Lin Kai, can''t you exin this to the sect?"

    "No, I can only go along with the mistake."

    "This, this, this..."

    "So, you must listen carefully to what I''m about to say, and strictly follow my instructions. This way, everyone can survive."

    "You tell me, I''ll remember."

    "First, from now on, call me Xiao Yi. You must inform all the adults in the vige about this. The reason is that Xiao Yi is my real name, and Lin Kai is just an alias. Second, your son needs to change his name. Keep the same pronunciation as Xiao Yi, but use different characters. Third, we need to migrate the vige. There''s no rush to move immediately, but it should bepleted within twenty years."

    Lin Jiang said. The first point is the most important. All the adults in the vige need to collectively change their memories and call him Xiao Yi. When these people pass away, the younger generation will remember this name. After several decades, if someone asks, they will only remember that there was once an immortal named Xiao Yi in the vige.

    As for Xiao Yuan''s son changing his name, that''s a small matter. The third point is to prevent any unforeseen circumstances. In the cultivation world, viges like this experience disappearances and new births every year. If Lin Jiang doesn''t return for several decades and the vige disappears, it would be normal. Then, it would depend on how determined the Five Elements Sect is in investigating Lin Jiang''s identity.

    However, Lin Jiang doesn''t think it will be a big deal. The Five Elements Sect has hundreds, if not thousands, of inner disciples. If they investigate every single one thoroughly, it would be a huge workload.

    "Lin Kai, we must move, the vige has finally be stable."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "When Fang Yuan bes a cultivator, moving will be easy. And in the future, your son may also be a cultivator. I will leave behind the tradition. With luck, every generation in the vige may be immortal. This little thing is for the sake of our descendants."

    "Really?"

    "Yes, it will happen in the future."

    "Then I''ll listen to you, Uncle."

    "Alright, from now on,e here with Fang Yuan every day. I have elixirs to help improve your health. I guarantee you''ll live to be 80 without any illness or disasters."

    Lin Jiang said. We still need to discuss the specific details with Xiao Yi and the others, but the general direction will be like this. It will take several decades to change the memories of the next generation.

    Fang Yuan spent nine days cultivating and reached the first level of Qi Refining. Lin Jiang also taught him about the knowledge of cultivating every day. Lin Jiang obtained a lot of information from the Five Elements Sect and handed it all to him, so he could slowly read it in the future.

    The spiritualnd left behind by Huang Liang will be Fang Yuan''s in the future. Lin Jiang also gave him the qi-enhancing pills from the Shanxue School of the Five Elements Sect. In addition to these, there were some spiritual talismans and other items that Lin Jiang left. He had left enough things to help Fang Yuan through the most difficult initial stage of cultivation.

    And Xiao Yi, these days, has been eating the pills that Lin Jiang brought back, and he feels like he''s ten years younger. He thinks that with his strong body, having three or five more children would definitely not be a problem.

    And Lin Jiang also taught him more advanced martial arts techniques, which he learned from the Lin family. With Lin Jiang''s guidance, Xiao Yi''s martial arts skills have greatly improved. He can barely handle lower-level monster beasts. Until Fang Yuan grows up, he has the ability to protect the vige.

    The details of changing memories have also been decided. Lin Jiang suggested that Xiao Yi should make some stone tablets, diaries, and other things, and change the name "Lin Jiang" to "Xiao Yi" in them, after Lin Jiang leaves.

    "Great responsibilities are bestowed upon such individuals, and the oue will be revealed decadester."

    Lin Jiang is very satisfied with his ns. He rarely ns for decades, as he has always felt that his intelligence is not very high. But this time, he believes he will definitely seed.

    "Stone tablets, diaries, and word of mouth, I understand, Lin Kai."

    "*Cough, cough.*"

    "I understand, Xiao Yi."

    "In the future, you must never let slip a word. I''ll give you forty more years. If, after forty years, you haven''t died of old age, Uncle Xiao and Fang Yuan will leave the vige. It is important that those who know me as Lin Kai, don''t stay in the vige after forty years, understood?"

    Lin Jiang felt unsafe, so he set up one final warning. The average lifespan of ordinary people is low, around forty-five years old. But there are always a few special ones who can live much longer. Xiao Yuan practices martial arts and has a strong physical condition, while Fang Yuan has entered the world of immortality. They can easily live to be seventy or eighty, as long as no idents happen.

    Xiao Yuan and Fang Yuan agreed to this. Lin Jiang had been talking about it for over ten days, and they had memorized everything. They even understood that it would be safest if Lin Jiang were to eliminate all of them with one sword strike. However, Lin Jiang didn''t do that because he felt nostalgic.

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116

    Five Elements Sect - External Affairs Hall

    Lin Jiang has been looking at the Internal Affairs Hall for an hour now. In front of him, there is a screen made of magical formations that projects numerous tasks.

    Some tasks involve taking care of spiritual beasts for senior disciples, while others require guarding a certain ce or hunting down evil forces and traitors. These tasks are all issued by the sect. There are also private tasks, such as seeking bodyguards or acquiring certain items. In total, there are more than ten thousand tasks.

    However, despite having so many tasks, Lin Jiang hasn''t found a suitable one. As it''s almost time, he leaves, nning toe back tomorrow.

    The rules of the Five Elements Sect state that outer disciples mustplete at least three sect tasks each year, or earn one hundred or more Merit Points. Otherwise, their sect benefits will be suspended. If they fail to meet the requirements for five consecutive years, they will be expelled from the sect.

    However, disciples can also request leave for a maximum of three years. After three years, they must make up for the missed tasks. If they fail to do so, they will be punished ordingly.

    Lin Jiang graduated from Shanxue School and became a true disciple of the sect. He naturally had to carry out sect missions. There were countless sect missions, but not all of them were suitable. Lin Jiang had already spent two days at the External Affairs Hall.

    He also realized that he, as a disciple with no cultivation and connections, would never get a good assignment. For example, guarding Medicine City would be a great assignment. Even the most challenging patrol team was quickly taken by others. If he could work in the management department, such as handling rental businesses, that would be out of reach for him.

    "I might as well go farming, find a ce at the foot of the mountain and live a simple life. I don''t expect to rely on sect missions for resources anyway."After returning, Lin Jiang revised his n. Initially, he wanted to see if he could get lucky andnd a good assignment, but now he gave up. He just wanted to find a ce to survive, endure until his fifties, and then figure out a way to build a foundation.

    Resources were not currently a problem for him. Although he spent a lot of money buying the stic Bone Pill, it didn''t exhaust his wealth. Moreover, Lin Batian had given him a golden core assassin called Dark Night, which contained several hundred thousand spirit stones. It was more than enough for him to cultivate until the Building Foundation Period.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Martial Uncle, I want to take over the spiritualnd of Qingyang Mountain."

    "Do you want to rent the entirend or just a portion?"

    "The entirend."

    "Qingyang Mountain has a special piece ofnd that is 1,500 acres. If you rent it alone, you won''t have much time for practice. Have you thought about it?"

    "Martial Uncle, Ie from a rural area and used to work as a farmer. I have no one else to rely on. Now that I''m young, I want to save more money and build a foundation for the future."

    "I see. Alright, if you agree with the requirements, just sign it if there are no issues."

    Inside the Internal Affairs Hall, the responsible steward nodded. Without the support of elders, it would indeed be necessary to make a breakthrough and earn more money while young.

    "Martial Uncle, I have signed it."

    Lin Jiang quickly signed his name. He obtained 1,500 acres of first-tier spiritualnd in Qingyang Mountain. The requirement was to deliver at least 450,000 kilos of spiritual paddy annually, or other tangible items. This would earn him 100 Merit Points. If he failed to deliver enough, it would be considered a mission failure, and he would have done it for nothing.

    "Here is the approval document. Go to the estate treasury to get the formation method and necessary seeds and tools. Remember, be careful with the seeds. Whatever seeds you take, you will need to deliver the corresponding items next year."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Go, next!"

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang thanked him and quickly went to the government warehouse. Lin Jiang received spiritual paddy seeds, which are rtively easy to grow and don''t require much technical expertise. If it was for medicine, he wouldn''t be able to handle it alone.

    Of course, there is an even simpler option, which is to cultivate a type of grass used to make talisman paper. It only needs asional watering after nting. However, the demand for this kind of grass is limited and grown in specific quantities, so Lin Jiang doesn''t have the opportunity to grow it.

    After receiving the seeds and tools, Lin Jiang flew to Qingyang Mountain. Qingyang Mountain is part of the Five Elements Sect''s mountain gate, but it is considered to be on the outskirts.

    Qingyang Mountain was already covered by a formation, and Lin Jiang just needed to use his token to enter. Inside, he saw vast farnd and three small buildings. Previously, Qingyang Mountain was rented by three disciples for cultivation.

    Lin Jiang randomly chose one of the small buildings to live in, set up a formation, and began nning. Even for a strong cultivator, it is difficult to take care of 1,500 mu of spiritualnd. Lin Jiang didn''t expect to earn spirit stones by meticulously farming. He was only doing this for survival and to earn Merit Points.

    "Oh my goodness, how did I forget about this? I have money! I can do online shopping!"

    Lin Jiang suddenly had a realization. How could he forget about this skill? If he had money, he could spend it. What''s there to be afraid of?

    Early the next morning, Lin Jiang went to find Yue Qing. In his second year at Shanxue School, Yue Qing made full use of his connections as a second-generation cultivator. Everyone in Shanxue School knew that he had a Building Foundation Period ancestor, and this kid had the widestwork.

    "Junior Brother Xiao also discovered a loophole in Internal Affairs Hall?"

    "What loophole?"

    "Stop pretending, does Junior Brother Xiao really have the money to do this?"

    Yue Qing had a knowing expression on his face. He had known about the loophole in the sect''s Internal Affairs Hall tasks for a while now. His family had informed him.

    The sect''s tasks from the Internal Affairs Hall only focused on the results and not the process. So the disciples who were truly wealthy wouldn''t waste their time doing the tasks themselves. They would take the tasks and pass them on to others, sometimes even paying a little more than the rewards provided by the Internal Affairs Hall. This way, they saved a lot of time on tasks and didn''t need to worry about being expelled from the sect. After all, they had money to buy resources and didn''t need to worry about cultivation issues.

    Yue Qing was just like that. He had graduated from Shanxue School less than two months ago, and he had alreadypleted all the tasks for this year. Of course, he didn''t do them himself; he handed them off to others. But to do this, the prerequisite was having money.

    There were also many disciples in the Five Elements Sect who were poor. They couldn''t even afford to spend money, let alone worry about cultivation. For them,bor was the most honorable.

    "Don''t worry about the money."

    "Just don''t worry. I''ll help you with this. You go back and wait. It''ll be done in a maximum of two days."

    "Thank you very much, Senior Brother Yue."

    "We have lived in the same courtyard for three years, no need for formalities. We will continue to interact with each other in the future."

    Yue Qing said. Lin Jiang has performed extremely well at Shanxue School. It is recognized that befriending Lin Jiang is a useful thing. It has been instructed at home to make connections with talented disciples. There might be a chance to use them in the future, and it may even bring profit with just one instance.

    Two dayster, there were about ten external disciples who arrived at Qingyang Mountain. Their cultivation level was not high, but they showed professionalism in their farming work, such as plowing the fields and nting trees.

    After entering Qingyang Mountain, one person stayed behind to negotiate the price with Lin Jiang while the others started working.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, we have been here at Qingyang Mountain before. It is said to be fifteen hundred mu ofnd, but in reality, it is eighteen hundred mu. The extra three hundred mu were secretly cultivated by previous senior brothers who contracted thisnd, and they get to keep the harvest as well."

    "Is that so?"

    "Senior Brother Xiao was introduced by Senior Brother Yue, so he surely wouldn''t dare to lie. If senior brother doesn''t believe it, we can measure again."

    "No need, I trust you."

    "Thank you very much, senior brother. We have a field of 1,800 acres to cultivate and sow. We will receive thirty-six ''magic stones.'' If we need to fertilize or use magic to make it rain along the way, we will only charge ten ''magic stones'' each time. When we harvest the spiritual paddy, and use magic to dry it, we will charge forty ''magic stones.'' How does senior brother feel about this? If senior brother ns to rent this spiritualnd long-term ande to us every year, we can offer a twenty percent discount on this basis."

    "Okay, let''s see how well you work this year. If you do a good job, I will hire you all. I will rent this spiritualnd for a long time."

    Lin Jiang calcted in his heart. ording to his charging method, even if Lin Jiang didn''t do anything himself and assumed that each acre could produce five hundred catties of spiritual paddy, he would still lose more than ten ''magic stones'' each year because the harvested spiritual paddy had to be used forpleting missions.

    But overall, it''s not a loss because bypleting the missions, Lin Jiang will receive twelve ''magic stones'' and four bottles of Qi Gathering Pills as sry each year, as well as one hundred Merit Points.

    If ordinary disciples did this, they would have no hope in their cultivation. Without taking medicine, they would have to rely solely on meditation. They wouldn''t even reach the peak of Qi Refining by the age of one hundred and sixty.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Thank you very much, senior brother. I will go and start working now."

    "Go ahead."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. Since someone was working, he didn''t need to go to the field himself. He stood aside and watched them work.

    These people should be a professional team with very high efficiency. The bulls used for plowing the field were of an unknown breed, extremely powerful. They even made loud noises and the sparks almost flew out as they dragged the plow.

    Lin Jiang also secretly calcted the area, and it was indeed over one thousand five hundred acres, but whether it was one thousand eight or not, he didn''t know. It seems that poor people still know how to be resourceful, just like his predecessors, who also knew how to take advantage of opportunities.

    The professional team was different. In just one day, theypleted all the tasks, and Lin Jiang sent them off.

    "From now on, I will take care of repairing the field, supplying water to the crops, and performing rain spells all by myself. Not for anything else, just to have something to do. Labor is honorable, after all."

    Lin Jiang made up his mind that as long as farming didn''t lose money, he also wanted to find something to do for himself. Otherwise, he was afraid of getting into trouble due to idleness.

    Of course, he wouldn''t do the fertilizing part. The sect''s spiritual paddy cultivation used a mixture of demonic beast waste, low-level disciple''s excrement, and leftover spirit stone powder that had probably gone through fermentation. It had a very unpleasant smell, so he would hire someone for this part.

    Instead of wasting time, he might as well draw a few more spiritual talismans. Although he couldn''t draw second-level spiritual talismans anymore after giving up his cultivation, first-level spiritual talismans were a piece of cake for him.

    "The farming life begins. Call me Old Farmer Lin from now on. Haha."

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter, then released Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. If he didn''t let them stretch their wings soon, they would rebel.

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117

    Five Elements SectгмQingyang Mountain

    "Rain Technique"

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly and quickly performed hand gestures. With the surge of spiritual energy, a small dark cloud formed and then it started raining heavily.

    "Well done, well done."

    Lin Jiang felt quite pleased. His Rain Technique was already very powerful. He had seen others using it, but their clouds were only about ten meters in size, while his was over forty meters, multiplied by several times.

    This was also a benefit of his cultivation. His spiritual energy had be more refined, but of course, this was only a side effect. Lin Jiang valued his cultivation method more.

    The Five Elements Sitting Zen ssic was just a simplified version of the Five Spirit Manual, but it still suited Lin Jiang better. He found it easy to practice, especially with the added effects of the stic Bone Pill. His progress and speed of cultivation were iparable to his time in the Lin family.

    This made Lin Jiang even more excited for the real Five Spirit Manual. If he could obtain this cultivation method, he would no longer have any worries about his progress. He just needed to gather resources and gradually improve.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, we have arrived."After a while, Lin Jiang received a Sound Passing Talisman. After putting away the Big Shadiao and the Small Shadiao, he opened the formation and the professional team appeared again.

    "Senior Brother Zheng, you came early. The sun has just risen."

    "We can''tpare to Senior Brother Xiao''s skill in drawing symbols. We can only farm."

    "Senior Brother Zheng is hardworking and will be rich. In another two years, he can try to achieve the Building Foundation."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said that the leader of the professional team was the person he had discussed pricing with before, named Zheng Yi. Just like Lin Jiang, Zheng Yi had no backing in the Five Elements Sect and relied solely on his own efforts.

    This year marks the thirteenth year since Lin Jiang entered the Five Elements Sect and ten years since he came to Qingyang Mountain. They have been working together for ten years and have be friends.

    Prior to this, Lin Jiang went to the sect''s Chuangong Hall to listen to several sses on drawing symbols. Then he began publicly showcasing his skill in drawing symbols. Now, among the outer disciples, he is considered the best and has gained some fame.

    These past few years, Lin Jiang has actually often gone to the Chuangong Hall. Chuangong Hall is a great benefit for the sect and family, and it is something that independent cultivators greatly desire. This is because Chuangong Hall always has sses teaching cultivation. It is not at the level of elementary practices like the Shanxue School. The minimum requirement for attending sses at Chuangong Hall is to have reached the Building Foundation Period.

    As for arge sect like the Five Elements Sect, there are asionally Golden Core Period ancestors who appear. Just getting taught a little something or having a question answered by them could be something that independent cultivators outside would spend years trying to figure out. The difference between having a famous teacher guide you and trying to figure things out on your own is significant. And on top of that, it''s all free.

    "Being hardworking can only make a living, not make one wealthy. To earn money, you have to be like Senior Brother Xiao."

    "No, no."

    Lin Jiang called out to Zheng Yi. His fellow disciples had already gone to work. This time, they were applying fertilizer, so he didn''t need to help.

    Lin Jiang called Senior Brother repeatedly. In the sect, Senior Brother is actually a term to show respect to Taoist friends from the outside world. It''s not really a true Senior Brother.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, it seems like our spiritual paddy will be a little less productive this year. Why don''t you join Talisman Hall? With your skills, you can earn Merit Points easily."

    "I know my own abilities. How can Ipare to the Senior Brothers at Talisman Hall? Besides, Talisman Hall is so busy that they don''t have time for cultivation. I prefer to enjoy my freedom here, right?"

    Lin Jiang exined that he only drew symbols to cover up the loophole of spending money to earn Merit Points. It was just an excuse, and he didn''t really rely on it to make money.

    Furthermore, he disliked working for others. The ie from spiritual talismans at Talisman Hall was very low, and it relied on quantity. There were never-ending amounts of spiritual talismans to draw every day, and he didn''t want to do that.

    "I do envy Senior Brother Xiao."

    Zheng Yi said that he admired a carefree attitude. For the spirit stone, as long as it is enough, that''s what Lin Jiang emphasized many times. Also, being young and having time to mess around, unlike him, who is already in his fifties. If he doesn''t build a foundation soon, he''s afraid he won''t have a chance.

    The two of them chatted for a long time. Zheng Yi''s subordinates had already finished the task. Although over a thousand acres isrge, they have a professional team. They specifically hired a craftsman to build wooden kites. Each kite can carry thousands of pounds and fly in the air. They are reliable drones for cultivating thend. With ten wooden kites working at the same time, fertilizing tens of thousands of acres in a day is not a problem. Compared to manualbor, it is much more efficient.

    "It''s all about technology and hard work."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He used to think about whether or not to introduce technology into the cultivation world, but he realized that the cultivation world''s technology is not actuallycking.

    You can say that the technology of drones is already advanced enough, but the craftsmen in this world can casually refine things. Wooden kites are just small objects. There are also flying boats. You need an airport for airnes, but flying boats don''t need that. They can stop and go as they please.

    Not to mention, just the technology of a storage bag would be enough for all the scientists on Blue Star to study for a hundred years. It would be useless even if they pulled out all their hair.

    So Lin Jiang doesn''t dare to underestimate the proficiency in Immortal Language. Your technological civilization may not necessarily be as impressive as theirs.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Yue, did Ie toote?"

    One day, Lin Jiang appeared at Yue Qing''s home. Yue Qing was a social butterfly among the disciples outside the gate, and he loved making friends very much.

    Over the years, he found a group of people among his friends and held regr exchange meetings to discuss cultivating immortality, exchange resources, and exchange information. Lin Jiang often attended as well.

    Lin Jiang''s character developed by the Five Elements Sect was a slightly talented, hardworking, and a little clever-looking one. If he stayed hidden in the mountain valley all the time, never interacting with people, without information or resource exchange, his cultivation would still grow rapidly. Is he really a fool?

    "No, you came too early, Junior Brother Xiao. How''s your talisman-drawing technique recently? Have you reached first-grade premium level?"

    "By a stroke of luck, I drew the first onest month, but all the subsequent ones failed."

    "Junior Brother Xiao, with your talent, you don''t need to worry now. Pay more attention to the Chuangong Hall. When there are senior talisman-drawing experts giving lectures, go and listen."

    Yue Qing said, in front of Lin Jiang, he always assumed the posture of an older brother. When it came to various rtionships within the sect, who understood better than him? It was his advantage.

    "Thank you, senior brother. I will pay attention."

    "Junior Brother Xiao, are you interested in joining me directly here? Let me tell you, if you don''t work harder, you will have no hope of building a foundation. Don''t just keep farming, that''s not productive."

    "Senior Brother, I don''t think you''ll be impressed by my abilities, will you?"

    "You are already quite talented, your first grade premium symbol painting technique is already impressive among us outer disciples."

    "Really?"

    "Let me be honest with you, someone like Zheng Yi will never have a chance to build a foundation in this lifetime unless he ventures outside the sect and seizes an opportunity."

    "Ah"

    "Have you always heard people talk about the sixty-year-old limit? Well, that statement is actually true, but it doesn''t apply to the Five Elements Sect. The outer sect of the Five Elements Sect has a thirty-five-year-old limit. Once you surpass thirty-five years old, you can forget about getting a Building Foundation Pill..."

    Yue Qing slowly said to Lin Jiang. The Five Elements Sect is very closed-off. They can actually provide enough Building Foundation Pills for their disciples because they have the most powerful Spiritual Farmer in the Yun State.

    However, the sect doesn''t provide for all disciples. They only allocate a small portion each year, and the quantity is fixed. To obtain a Building Foundation Pill, having enough Merit Points is not enough. They must consider the disciple''s Spiritual Root, talent, and especially age. The younger, the better. Once you surpass thirty-five years old, there won''t be much opportunity to obtain one.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Then you have to find a way yourself. But outside the sect, a single Building Foundation Pill is worth thirty to forty thousand spirit stones. Even someone like Yue Qing, who has support from a senior in the Building Foundation Period, would find it difficult toe up with this sum. After all, earning money and saving money are two different things, and the expenses for the Building Foundation Period are even greater.

    "So, senior brother, what are your ns?"

    Of course, we will stick together to keep warm. There are so many people in the sect who have connections, what am I worth? If we don''t work hard, we can only wait to die.

    This is what I think. I will find a few like-minded senior brothers, we will be true brothers. We will unite and work towards the same goal. Can you lend me some Merit Points? Let me build my foundation first, and then I will repay you.

    This kind of thing ismon outside. What do we do when resources are not enough for all the brothers at home to cultivate? We focus on one person first, and when that person bes powerful, we will help the others.

    Junior Brother Xiao, don''t worry. I am not the kind of person who betrays others. I can promise you that I will definitely repay you. Whatever Merit Points you give me, I will give you back twice as much...

    Yue Qing''s words stunned Lin Jiang. Look at this guy, Yue Qing sure dares to think. I considered him my senior brother, but he''s treating me like a fool.

    "Is this considered cultivation world gossip, illegal fundraising, or a scam?"

    Lin Jiang muttered to himself. This Yue Qing is quite something. I hope there aren''t really any fools falling for it.

    However, reality pped Lin Jiang in the face. There were indeed some fools who fell for it, quite a few actually. They all rushed to be Yue Qing''s brothers.

    "There are too many silly people, not enough cheaters."

    Lin Jiang sighed once again, knowing that Yue Qing was going to seed. He was a person who did great things.

    The sess of this matter actually relies on his usualyout. Starting from Shanxue School, his image to others was that of a sunny and enthusiastic person with many friends, willing to help others and keep his promises.

    It was normal for someone like Lin Jiang, who had lived for over two hundred years, to not be fooled. But the problem was that the other disciples were in their twenties andcked experience in the outside world. They had no idea about the dangers of society after staying within the sect for a long time.

    All the resources were focused on Yue Qing. He was benefiting from it, but what if his Building foundation failed? Even if he seeded, how long would it take for him to support others? Opportunities have a time limit. If it takes until you''re in your fifties or sixties to repay you with resources, what''s the use? Not to mention, he also had the right to break the agreement. At that time, the other person would be an internal disciple''s Building foundation Martial Uncle, while you were just an external disciple with no background. How could you possibly win against them?

    "Junior Brother Xiaoбдбдбдбд"

    "Senior Brother Yue, my stomach hurts and I need to go to the toilet. I have to bring back this manure for fertilization. I''ll leave now, I''lle back next time."

    When Yue Qing asked Lin Jiang again, he quickly found an excuse and ran away.

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118

    Five Elements Sect

    Lin Jiang finally left Qingyang Mountain. He stayed there for twenty years and has been in the Five Elements Sect for twenty-three years. He ims to be thirty-eight years old, but his true age is two hundred and forty-three years.

    His cultivation has reached the ninth level of Qi Refining again, thanks to the stic Bone Pill. This has made Lin Jiang''s progress much faster than before. He expected to reach the ninth level of Qi Refining at the age of forty-five.

    ording to the general path of disciples in the Five Elements Sect, reaching the ninth level of Qi Refining means it''s time to prepare for Building Foundation.

    In the Five Elements Sect, there are generally three ways to obtain the Building Foundation Pill. The first way is through luck, by being epted as a disciple by the senior members of the sect, who will provide the Building Foundation Pill. However, this situation is very rare. It only happens to those genius disciples who have been noticed by the top members of the sect, or those who have close rtives in the sect.

    The second way is by participating in the sect''s grandpetition. The outer disciples hold thispetition every three years, and anyone at or above theter stage of Qi Refining can participate. The top three winners receive the Building Foundation Pill as a reward and are promoted to the inner disciples.

    However, not everyone can achieve this. The outer disciples of the Five Elements Sect number in the tens of thousands, and there are only several thousand people at theter stage of Qi Refining. It''s not easy to break into the top three among such a crowd. Additionally, this matter attracts a lot of attention. Lin Jiang gave up on this idea early on.

    The third way is to exchange them with Merit Points. Every year, the Five Elements Sect releases a certain number of Building Foundation Pills, which can be exchanged by disciples using Merit Points. The required Merit Points range from twenty thousand to forty thousand.

    The reason why it varies is that it''s not just about having more Merit Points. The sect needs toprehensively evaluate your talents,prehension, age, and many other factors.Yue Qing told Lin Jiang that this method of obtaining Building Foundation Pills requires a very high demand, and the younger, the better. If you are over thirty-five years old, there is almost no hope. After Lin Jiang inquired from various sources, he confirmed that this statement is true.

    But Lin Jiang still wanted to make an effort because it aligned with his personal goals and the choice of most ordinary disciples. Moreover, there is no time limit for earning Merit Points, and he was umting them for the preparation after building his foundation. The Five Spirit Manual is not cheap either.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Xiao, this is Senior Brother Zhang."

    On this day, a Five Elements Sect disciple with a pointed mouth and puffy cheeks brought Lin Jiang to meet another seemingly fierce Five Elements Sect disciple.

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Zhang."

    "No need for excessive politeness. Let''s get straight to the point. Are the spirit stones ready?"

    "They''re ready."

    Seeing that the other party wasn''t interested in small talk, Lin Jiang didn''t say much either. He directly took out a spirit stone and Senior Brother Zhang counted it before putting it into a storage bag.

    Afterwards, the two of them went to the Internal Affairs Hall toplete a mission. The mission was to chase and kill a disciple who had been discovered by the sect for corruption. However, this person boldly killed the disciple who was investigating him and was now wanted by the sect. In the end, he was in by Senior Brother Zhang.

    This mission was worth one thousand Merit Points given by the sect. It doesn''t matter how many people you kill, they still give you one thousand points. If there are more people, the points are divided among them, so there is a loophole. For example, right now, even though Lin Jiang didn''t actually participate in this mission, as long as Senior Brother Zhang puts his name on it, Lin Jiang can get some Merit Points for free. Of course, in the private sector, you have to pay for it.

    After a while, Lin Jiang''s Identity Jade Disc showed an additional three hundred Merit Points. It normally takes him three years of working in the fields to earn that amount, but now he spent a spirit stone and it only took less than twenty minutes.

    Senior Brother Zhang was very cold-hearted. After the transaction waspleted, he left without even looking back, even more ruthless than when Lin Jiang was in Spring Coming Tower.

    "Senior Brother XiaoгмSenior Brother Xiao"

    "Junior Brother Hou, I won''t forget your kindness."

    As soon as Senior Brother Zhang left, the disciple with a sharp face came over again, looking very pleasing to Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang threw a spirit stone at him.

    This person is called Hou Zun, a famous "skin dealer" among the outer disciples. His business is veryplex. Brushing Merit Points like today is just one of his businesses. He also does things like finding reliable alchemists, drawing talismans, and so on. If someone wants to be a daopanion with a certain female disciple, that''s possible too, of course, it depends on whether the other party has such a need.

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xiao. I wish Senior Brother Xiao immortality."

    "Don''t just say thank me. I need a lot of Merit Points. If you need help in the future, feel free toe find me."

    "Yes, yes, I will definitely look for Senior Brother Xiao. Senior Brother Xiao is my savior."

    "Alright, I''m leaving now."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and left directly.

    After a moment, Lin Jiang met with a seemingly simple-minded disciple. This person was also one of the middlemen, but his business was limited to Talisman Hall only.

    Within the Five Elements Sect, for those who have a talent for drawing symbols and want to learn this craft, most of them will work in Talisman Hall. Talisman Hall assigns them tasks every month, such as drawing a certain number of symbols of a specific style. Uponpletion, they will receive certain rewards.

    However, not everyone canplete these tasks. Drawing symbols has a sess rate. For ordinary Talisman Makers, unless they have been practicing at the same level for decades, who can guarantee a hundred percent sess? And Talisman Hall is in a hurry, so outsourcing has emerged.

    In reality, disciples of Talisman Hall can also buy talismans from outside, but this creates new problems. Firstly, if they buy spiritual talismans, it is very likely that the styles will differ from those of Talisman Hall. Once the Masters of Talisman Hall find out, they won''t punish you, as long as you have spiritual talismans to show. However, it will leave a bad impression on the Masters and affect future development.

    Secondly, buying talismans from outside requires spending spirit stones. Many people don''t even have any spirit stones. If they have spirit stones, they use them to buy elixirs or upgrade their equipment. On the other hand, internal transactions can be made using Merit Points. They earn Merit Points bypleting tasks for Talisman Hall, and they usually have some leftover.

    "Brother Xiao, this is Brother Zhao."

    "Hello, Brother Zhao."

    "Brother Xiao, the spiritual talisman is ready to be drawn."

    "It''s done. Brother Zhao, take a look."

    Lin Jiang took out a stack of spiritual talismans and carefully studied them. His face showed great surprise.

    "Brother Xiao, you are so talented. The style of this symbol is exactly like mine. Even I can hardly recognize it."

    "As long as Brother Zhao is satisfied."

    "I''m in a hurry toplete a task, Brother Xiao. Let''s catch upter. I''m leaving now."

    Brother Zhao hurriedly left, leaving behind Lin Jiang and the simple-minded disciple.

    "Senior Brother Xiao,e to the Internal Affairs Hall tomorrow. There will be a task to deliver, it''s alreadypleted."

    "Okay, I trust you."

    Lin Jiang nodded, they had worked together before, so he trusted him.

    Like Lin Jiang and Talisman Hall''s cooperation, they didn''t directly exchange Merit Points. They needed a third party to guarantee it. These intermediaries were the messengers, so they emphasized their reputation. If they broke their agreement, no one would trust them again.

    After finishing his work, Lin Jiang returned to his living quarters. After leaving Qingyang Mountain, he went back to sharing a small courtyard with three other disciples.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Outer disciples didn''t have the qualifications to have their own dwelling. They either left the sect and lived elsewhere, or shared amodations with others. The advantage was that this kind of residence was free of charge.

    "I earned eighteen thousand Merit Points, and it cost me nearly twenty thousand spirit stones. Regr disciples don''t have this kind of financial strength."

    Lin Jiang looked at the Merit Points on his Identity Jade Disc. He had been farming for twenty years and only earned two thousand Merit Points, but by spending money, he had earned sixteen thousand in less than half a year.

    So Lin Jiang remembered what Zheng Yi had said before, that hard work couldn''t make one rich, only enough to live a decent life. This principle applied in any world.

    "When I umte more than 20,000 points, I will apply for a Building Foundation Pill. It''s almost certain that I will fail, but then I can use it as an excuse to leave the sect and seek opportunities in Medicine City. I will buy an expensive Building Foundation Pill there, rebuild my foundation, and after the reconstruction, one Building Foundation Pill should be enough. If not, then I''ll need two."

    Lin Jiang made a n. He spent decades and made many arrangements, all for a cultivation method that suited him. This made Lin Jiang feel particrly amazed.

    It''s really frustrating topare people. He took Cao Ying to Zhonghang Sect, and because Cao Ying is exceptionally talented, everything is readily avable to her - the care of the sect, cultivation techniques, spiritual stones, and medicinal pills. Meanwhile, he had to put in so much effort.

    Lin Jiang had plenty of time to experiment, but for ordinary people, they only have a few chances to try and make mistakes. If they make a mistake, then it''s a mistake, and they have to wait for the next lifetime.

    That''s why the sect bes stronger and stronger, while independent cultivators remain independent cultivators, just seen as easy targets by the sect.

    "Perhaps I have been an independent cultivator for too long, my heart has be wild and unable to truly connect with Five Elements Sect, unable to have a real sense of belonging."

    Lin Jiang thought about Five Elements Sect again. In the past twenty years, he had lived a good life. Compared to those independent cultivators he encountered when he was selling goods in Yunzhong City, his life now was like heaven to them.

    In Five Elements Sect, you can go to Chuangong Hall to listen to sses about cultivation problems. Amodation and meals are free, and safety is guaranteed. Compared to independent cultivators who live from hand to mouth, life is simply amazing.

    But even so, Lin Jiang still doesn''t feel a sense of belonging. He has been an independent cultivator for over a hundred years, and he has no family ties to bind him to Five Elements Sect. Thus, it''s impossible for him to feel a sense of belonging.

    "Never mind, never mind, let''s go once we obtain the technique."

    In the end, Lin Jiang sighed. Once he obtained the technique, he would find a way to leave the Five Elements Sect and return to being an independent cultivator. He acknowledged his connection to the sect, but in time, centuriester, if he became powerful and the sect weakened, he would return to show his gratitude.

    However, looking at the current situation, this probability is extremely low. The three major sects in Yun State have been strong for thousands of years, always producing talented individuals, and have never declined. At least, there are no signs of it now.

    Of course, there are no sects that remain strong forever. With Lin Jiang''s lifespan, he will certainly witness the day when they weaken.

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119

    Five Elements SectInternal Affairs Hall

    The Hall Master sat at the top, with a dozen stewards busy around him. After a while, someone approached the Hall Master with a list and said. Hall Master, this year''s list of outer disciple applicants for the Building Foundation Pill has been prepared.

    "How is the situation?"

    "It''s worse than previous years. In the past three years, we have reduced the supply of Building Foundation Pills by twenty percent, and the total number of outer disciples has reached nearly a thousand."

    "It''s quite difficult to snatch eighty Building Foundation Pills from a thousand people."

    The Hall Master nodded, but this is a good thing for the sect. The morepetition there is among the outer disciples, the easier it is for them to select the most outstanding ones.

    "Hall Master, here''s the list. Please take a look. If there are no issues, we can announce it."

    "Okay."

    The Hall Master nodded and quickly scanned the first eighty names on the list. The details were veryprehensive, including cultivation level, Spiritual Root, and age, which were all important criteria. Thements from others in the sect about theirprehension ability were also considered.The Hall Master understood very well that these eighty people were excellent, but there were also others who were just as outstanding and met their requirements. However, due to the limited number of Building Foundation Pills, they had to be excluded.

    "Take these circled names back for further discussion."

    The Hall Master casually circled a few names, and the steward beside him was shocked, thinking: Did the Hall Master forget someone? Weren''t they all included?

    "Yes, Hall Master."

    "This is a small matter. The next thing we need to do is to do well in organizing the Medicine City celebration. This is the first time our Five Elements Sect is hosting the celebration, and we must not make any mistakes. Our Internal Affairs Hall should fully support the work of the External Affairs Hall and also provide some treasures..."

    The Hall Master answered, speaking seriously to the several stewards. Yunzhong City has held the Centennial Celebration eleven times, and the Five Elements Sect has sent representatives seven times.

    Especially in thest two or three times, the people of the Five Elements Sect were astonished by the flow of people in Yunzhong City. Was it just a simple flow of people? No, it was spirit stone, it was resources, it was wealth.

    Outsiders enjoy the spectacle, but insiders understand the tricks. Only they know how much money can be made from organizing such a celebration. That''s why the Five Elements Sect also became interested and prepared for years. Finally, they also found a reason to hold a celebration in Medicine City, of course, the name had to be changed.

    Continuing to use the term Centennial Celebration, Yunzhong City wouldn''t really say anything, but the Five Elements Sect themselves felt that they were overshadowed by the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "I was indeed not selected."

    "There must be scheming behind this. Why was I eliminated?"

    "I will go to the Law Enforcement Hall to report them."

    "Let''s go, I want to report it too."

    At the entrance of the Internal Affairs Hall, when the quota for the Building Foundation Pill applications for this year came out, the people were excited. Some cried bitterly, some cursed angrily, and some went to the Law Enforcement Hall to file aint. But there were also people like Lin Jiang who remained silent because they were already mentally prepared for this oue.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Filing aint is useless. At the very least, the list needs to be checked by the Hall Master. The overall Hall Master of the Internal Affairs Hall is a powerful person at the Nascent Soul stage. Who would be willing to offend such a powerful person for the sake of a Qi Refining Period disciple?

    But if you say there are no internal matters involved, Lin Jiang doesn''t believe it. Among the eighty spots, thest thirty and the fifty spots from eighty to one hundred are not much different in ability. Anyone could fill those spots. However, the people on the list obviously alle from certain big ns within the sect.

    Favoritism and rtionships exist in the world of humans. Absolute fairness and justice only exist in utopia. That''s why Lin Jiang didn''t care too much and just left directly.

    Lin Jiang went to the Library Pavilion. The Five Elements Sect''s Library Pavilion is very big. It upies a whole mountain and has over ten courtyards, each filled with shelves containing jade scrolls.

    Outer disciples have one day each year to read books for free in the Library Pavilion, but there are restrictions and they can''t take the books away or make copies. Any extra books they want to read require payment with Merit Points, which is the sect''s internal currency.

    Lin Jiang has spent quite a few Merit Points in the Library Pavilion. Coming from an independent cultivator background, his knowledge about the cultivation world is limited and not systematic. For example, regarding first-grade spiritual talismans, Lin Jiang has only collected less than 300 types of runes from the outside world, while the Five Elements Sect has recorded over 500 types. Although the additional 200+ types are rarely seen in daily life, who knows when they mighte in handy.

    The monopoly of knowledge is also one of the reasons why major sects thrive.

    The Library Pavilion is a very quiet ce, but there are always people talking and bothering others. Generally, Lin Jiang avoids these things and finds a ce to read.

    But today, he heard something interesting. After listening carefully for a while, Lin Jiang stepped forward and said. Excuse me, fellow senior brothers. I just heard you talking about the celebration in Medicine City. Is it the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City?

    "You heard it wrong. It''s not the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City, but the celebration of our Five Elements Sect in Medicine City."

    "Medicine City is also having a celebration?"

    "Actually, we''ve had simr celebrations in Medicine City before, but they were not as grand. This time, we are nning to have a celebration that is just as impressive as the one in Yunzhong City."

    "I''m sorry for asking, but can you please exin what this is all about?"

    Lin Jiang, who had stayed in Medicine City for several years, knew that Medicine City had been envious of the profits brought by the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City. They had also organized simr celebrations before, but the results were not good. It was a lot of effort for very little reward, so they gradually lost interest.

    "It seems that you''ve been inside our sect for too long and haven''t been out and about. Sincest year, our sect has been expanding in Medicine City, and we have increased the size of Medicine City by fifty percent. The new city district is almost finished..."

    "I see, I have learned something new, thank you. So, when does this celebration start?"

    "We are also discussing this matter, and we all agree that we will be able to witness the grandeur of the world''s heroes next year or the year after."

    "Exactly, the disciples of Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, when ites to this matter, still have a sense of superiority. They can''t be so arrogant in the future."

    "The Centennial Celebration will definitely be lively. We will also go..."

    Lin Jiang listened to them chatting for a while, then silently left. But now, all he could think of was opportunities.

    The world of cultivation ispetitive, cruel, and closed off. It''s not just a problem of fathers passing on to their sons, it could be several generations of ancestors existing at the same time. How can an ordinary cultivatorpete with these aristocratic descendants? The only way is to take a shortcut.

    Taking a shortcut requires opportunities. If the chance doesn''te, no matter how talented you are, it''s useless. This grand celebration is such an opportunity.

    Lin Jiang has spent almost thirty years in the Five Elements Sect, but he has barely umted any wealth. The money he earned is mostly used for Merit Points. Compared to when he first arrived in Yunzhong City, his value has greatly diminished.

    Although he can still afford one or two Building Foundation Pills, after rebuilding the foundation, he still needs a lot of resources for cultivation. In short, no one willin about having too many spirit stones.

    "The Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration offers many opportunities, and the same goes for Medicine City if it bes prosperous. But not everyone can specte. First, you need a source of information and be aware of the information gap. Second, you need a backer. Without a backer, if something happens, you''ll be the sacrificialmb."

    Lin Jiang thought in his heart, specting is easy to talk about, but difficult to do. Otherwise, everyone in the world would specte. The essence of spection is the difference in information, using information to make money.

    And the confidence of spection relies on a strong backing. Without a strong backing, it is a suicidal behavior. Once you be rich overnight and attract attention, it''s not a small matter. At the very least, you will lose money to avoid disaster.

    "Big spection needs a big backing, small spection needs a small backing. It''s really hard to choose."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Why is he not like Cao Ying? If he had a powerful master as a strong backing, what would he be afraid of? He could just directly go for it.

    Now he is without any support at the Five Elements Sect. Even if he has thousands of ideas in his mind, he dare not take action, for fear of being liquidated in the end.

    "Actually, Yue Qing is a talent. Otherwise, I would find him."

    Lin Jiang immediately thought of Yue Qing. Among the disciples of the same level, Lin Jiang knew quite a few, but he had to admire that Yue Qing was one of the truly capable ones. Although this guy''s character wasn''t very good, character and ability didn''t have much connection.

    "Working with Yue Qing together, and privately doing it yourself, perfect."

    Lin Jiang quickly made up his mind. Yue Qing is not very reliable, but it''s okay. Lin Jiang can use his reputation to get things done. Working with Yue Qing together and privately doing it himself, no matter what, he won''t lose. Even if he can''t have the meat at the celebration this time, he will drink the soup to the fullest.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120

    Five Elements Sect - Yue Qing''s residence.

    Lin Jiang waited at the door for a while, then Yue Qing came out with a smile on his face. He had sessfully built his foundation. There were many foolish people and quite a few who were willing to support him. Several years ago, Yue Qing had umted enough merit points to exchange for a Building Foundation Pill, which allowed him to establish his own residence.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, why do you have time toe visit Senior Brother?"

    Yue Qing said that he was sure Lin Jiang saw through his tricks and that''s why he ran away. After that, they didn''t keep in touch as much for a few years.

    "It''s been a long time since Ist visited Senior Brother Yue. I came to see you today."

    "Haha,e in."

    Yue Qingughed heartily. He knew that if Lin Jiang hade to find him, it must be for a reason.

    "Senior Brother Yue, do you know about the uing celebration in Medicine City?"

    "I know, Medicine City is expanding, and my uncle is one of the supervisors.""Oh."

    Lin Jiang raised an eyebrow, it seemed like Yue Qing''s uncle was quite remarkable, able to get such work.

    "Does Junior Brother Xiao also have ideas?"

    "I have read some travelogues written by Taoist friends about the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. ording to the book, if the poption of a city suddenly increases, for those who see business opportunities, there are opportunities everywhere, and spirit stones are everywhere."

    "Haha, great minds think alike, but if Junior Brother Xiao acts now, it will be toote. The businesses in the new district have already been taken by the senior members in our sect. We have no chance anymore."

    Yue Qingughed even harder, it looked like something important was going to be discussed today. But the biggest cake has long been taken by the bigshots in our sect, he can''t even get a piece ofnd.

    "We can''t touch that kind of business, we don''t have a chance. Compared to the bigshots in our sect, we should be satisfied with just getting a taste of the soup."

    "It seems that Junior Brother Xiao really does have ideas, exin in detail."

    Okay, then I will share my thoughts. These days, I have read over a hundred travelogues about Yunzhong City. The Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration will attract millions of cultivators from other ces, bringing endless business opportunities.

    And for cultivators, the most important things are pills, symbols, tools, formations, especially pills. The Building Foundation Pill and the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill are extremely attractive. My Five Elements Sect is known for being skilled in cultivating spiritual crops. Cang City is also known as Medicine City, so there is no shortage of spiritual medicines and pills. But there are many people doing this business, and we have no advantage. We need to find another way.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "How can we find another way?"

    "Clothes, food, shelter, transportation. I choose food as the first option."

    "If it''s not high-grade spiritual food, how much money can it sell for?"

    Yue Qing shook his head. A single serving of high-grade spiritual food could sell for thousands of spirit stones, even tens of thousands. He didn''t think that low-grade spiritual food could sell for much.

    "Senior Brother Yue, it seems like you underestimated the profit of spiritual food. I can guarantee that within ten to fifteen days, just by selling low-grade spiritual food, we can earn at least 50,000 spirit stones or more."

    "Junior Brother Xiao, don''t tease me. Low-grade spiritual food is settled with spiritual beads. How much do you have to sell to earn 50,000 spirit stones? I can''t afford to rent such a big shop."

    "When did I say that we need to rent a shop, Senior Brother?"

    "How can you buy without a store? By wandering the streets?"

    "Just by wandering the streets, tell your senior brother the truth. Junior brother, you haven''t made any powerful connections within the sect these past years, only your senior brother. Otherwise, this benefit wouldn''t be your senior brother''s turn."

    "Tell me carefully, if it''s really feasible, then how about your senior brother cooperating with you? You should know your senior brother''s reputation, it''s unquestionable."

    Yue Qing immediately said, his image had yet to be shattered, those sworn brothers of his, he''s now supporting all of them. They''re his team, though he''s not at a loss either. Qi Refining Period sponsors him with one hundred spirit stones, and he''ll return a little more. But the money-making capabilities of the two are different, it''s difficult for Qi Refining Period to earn one hundred spirit stones, but it''s easy for him, in the end, he profits the most.

    Lin Jiang immediately presented his own n, it''s a simple n. Starting from now, massively stockpile low-level spiritual flesh, rent a warehouse outside the city, freeze them with an ice formation, and when the great celebration begins, take the flesh out to thaw. By then, not to mention cooking for themselves, even if they wholesale, they can earn a tidy sum because prices will definitely rise.

    And they can even make it themselves, find a few disciples with low cultivation but good culinary skills, mass produce in an assembly-line fashion, and make boxed meals to sell on the streets and alleys, winning by quantity.

    And don''t worry aboutck of business. Lin Jiang himself has been an independent cultivator for over a hundred years, he knows the situation of the lower levels of independent cultivators. It''s really using one spirit stone like it''s split into eight pieces. And independent cultivators, what theyck the least are poor people.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, is this really a good idea?"

    Yue Qing was deeply moved by Lin Jiang''s words, he realized this strategy was indeed very good, and they can set up the production location outside the city, the cost can be very low.

    "Not good, this is dishonest money. If we do this, the small vendors in Medicine City will lose their business. Senior Brother Yue, will you earn this money?"

    "Having money but not earning it, what a jerk."

    Yue Qing suddenly shouted, what''s wrong with earning dishonest money? How much is a conscience worth? People can be bought by the pound.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Thirty miles outside of Medicine City.

    Lin Jiang arrived at a vige called Jiangshan Town, where Yue Qing and a few others were already waiting. When they saw Lin Jiang, they exchanged greetings.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, as per your request, we have already modified three warehouses. They are all equipped with cold attribute formations. When a piece of raw meat is brought in, it can be frozen into ice within the time it takes to burn a stick of incense."

    "How much meat can these three warehouses hold?"

    "At least hundreds of thousands of kilograms, give or take. I''m not exactly sure."

    "Fill it up as much as possible."

    "No problem filling it up, but the issue is that we don''t have enough money. We still haven''t decided how big we want to make it."

    "Then let''s decide now."

    "Okay, after discussing with a few of us, we decided to invest fifty thousand spirit stones in this matter."

    "Senior Brother Xiao is already in the Building Foundation Period, and he''s only investing fifty thousand spirit stones?"

    "I''ll invest ten thousand spirit stones, and the rest will be for my brothers. I have other business to attend to as well."

    Yue Qing shook his head, not because he was timid, but because he didn''t have enough money. His ie had increased significantly before reaching the Building Foundation Period, but expenses had also multiplied. Ten thousand spirit stones was his limit.

    "What about the other senior brothers?"

    "We calcted and decided to invest twenty thousand spirit stones."

    "Okay, I''ll pay the remaining twenty thousand."

    "Oh dear, Junior Brother Xiao is really secretive."

    "This is all my wealth. I sold all the Merit Points on my Identity Jade Disc. If we''re going to y, let''s y big."

    Lin Jiang said. I''ll also invest twenty thousand spirit stones as a gesture. If he really puts his entire fortune into it, Medicine City won''t be able to handle it. We''ll be at a loss.

    "Alright, let''s sign the contract."

    "No, this time I want to make a Heart Demon Oath."

    "Does Junior Brother Xiao have to be so serious?"

    "Twenty thousand spirit stones are my savings from decades in the Five Elements Sect. I hope to make a big profit this time and be able to buy a Building Foundation Pill. I believe you all have the same idea, right?"

    "We agree."

    The four people beside Yue Qing immediately said that they couldn''tpare with Lin Jiang''s wealth. One person has five thousand spirit stones, which is their entire savings.

    "Alright, let''s make a Heart Demon Oath, just like a Heart Demon Oath."

    Yue Qing had to agree. He didn''t think this business would be very big or profitable, so he didn''t n on cheating.

    "Since we''ve formed an alliance, let''s divide and conquer. Senior Brother Yue will take care of the demon beast meat, and I will negotiate with Senior Brother Zheng Yi. They will be responsible for purchasing arge quantity of spiritual paddy at normal prices."

    "There''s no problem with the demon beast meat. I have already found someone to collect it from a faraway ce. We don''t want anything above second-grade, just lower-grade first-grade will do. The more, the better. My brothers and I will handle it."

    "Who will be responsible for the packaging boxes and chopsticks?"

    "I will. I am a resident of Jiangshan Town. I have already talked to the ordinary people there."

    A man beside Yue Qing stepped forward and said that hiring ordinary people would be even cheaper. With a few spirit stones, they could hire arge group of people for a whole year.

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang eximed. Mortals can do their work, decrease costs, and be a good capitalist!

    "I have already found a cook. Junior Brother Xiao can teach them in the next few days so that they don''t panic. I have received news that next May will be a grand celebration in Medicine City. It''s less than half a year away. Our Five Elements Sect has already sent people to promote it in different ces. At that time, independent cultivators with influence in Yun State, sects, and families will all be invited."

    Yue Qing said. Five Elements Sect is one of the three powerful forces in Yun State. They have sent out invitations. Anyone who dares not toe, this celebration will surely be very big in scale.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang stayed in Jiangshan Town, discussing recipes with the cook arranged by Yue Qing. Lin Jiang''s idea was not to make it tooplicated, just braised meat. They would userge pots bigger than humans, which could braize hundreds or thousands of kilograms at once. After it was braised, they would pack it in paper boxes, keeping it simple and convenient.

    It took several days for Lin Jiang to replicate the braised meat he had made in the Lin family. Then he had people collect arge amount of spices and stockpile raw materials.

    The packaging boxes were also prepared. Their size depended on the amount of spiritual energy that could be refined at the initial stage, intermediate stage, and advanced stage of Qi Refining. After the style was determined, Yue Qing would go to the ce where paper was produced to ce an order. There was no need to worry about technical issues. In the world of cultivation, those were small problems.

    Everything was nned out. Lin Jiang also requested a trial run. They made five hundred servings and went to Medicine City to sell them. After a few days, the feedback was neither good nor bad.

    Because there weren''t many transient people in Medicine City now, most of the residents had fixed ces to live and found it more cost-effective to cook for themselves. However, the vendors in the bustling market of Medicine City loved this kind of boxed meal because it saved time and effort.

    Some of the partners were still anxious, but Lin Jiang''s confidence grew. He felt that as long as they slightly reduced the pricepared to the food vendors in the city, it would definitely be well-received.

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121

    Medicine City

    When Lin Jiang looked around, he saw decorations everywhere, making it look very festive. He could see signs that said "Celebrating the First Medicine Conference of the Five Elements Sect" everywhere he went.

    The Medicine Conference was a big event organized by the Five Elements Sect. They wanted to save face, so they copied the idea from the Centennial Celebration in Yunzhong City. But they couldn''t just copy the name as well.

    The Medicine Conference was really impressive. The Five Elements Sect announced that they would have 5,000 types of spiritual medicine and 5,000 types of elixirs for sale. This caught the attention of almost half of the people in Yun State.

    So when the official day of the Medicine Conference arrived, Medicine City was crowded. Literally, it seemed like there were too many people for Medicine City to handle.

    Before the expansion of Medicine City, there were only around 300,000 to 400,000 residents and tourists. Even after the expansion, it was estimated that it could only amodate around one million people. However, currently, there were already at least 1.3 million people, and cultivators from all over kepting. Can you me it for being overcrowded?

    What''s even more serious is that the Five Elements Sect doesn''t have the capacity to host so many people. They had previously organized events simr to the Centennial Celebration, but even then, the maximum number of people was 500,000 to 600,000. Doubling the crowd made the Five Elements Sect panic and unable to handle the situation.

    There were many different things happening, such as people getting lost, unfair business deals causing arguments, and disputes. It was all very chaotic because the Five Elements Sect didn''t have enough experience to handle it.

    "Crazy, crazy! Junior Brother Xiao, we''re in big trouble. Even the people selling box lunches can''t squeeze in anymore."Yue Qing hurriedly found Lin Jiang and urgently told him about a situation he had never expected. One day, Medicine City would be so crowded that people couldn''t get in.

    "Senior Brother Yue, can you talk to the people in charge of Medicine City?"

    "Yes, I can. The Deputy City Lord of Medicine City is Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle. My uncle is friends with his disciple. I have seen him several times, and he is interested in taking me as his student."

    "Then you must immediately find Zhang Laozu and tell him that there must be crowd control in Medicine City. If more peoplee, there will be trouble. If a stampede ident happens, more than just one or two people will die."

    "Ah!"

    "Hurry, this is not a small matter."

    "Wait a moment, I''ll go right away."

    Yue Qing nodded, then he flew away directly. He obtained the identity of a patrol member of the Medicine City, which allowed him to fly within the city. Others didn''t have this qualification and had to walk obediently under the aerial prohibitions.

    Lin Jiang also worriedly looked at the scene in front of him. He had invested all his wealth in this risky operation, and he couldn''t afford anything to go wrong, otherwise he would go bankrupt.

    "Are you Xiao Yi?"

    After a moment, two patrol teamsnded in front of Lin Jiang, and he still looked confused.

    "Hello, Martial Uncle. I am Xiao Yi, an outer disciple."

    "Come with me."

    "Ah, Martial Uncle, did I do something wrong?"

    Lin Jiang became anxious for no reason. What was going on? He had his hand on the Spirit Beast Bag, ready to release Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    "Vice City Lord Zhang Martial Uncle is looking for you. Don''t waste time. Attach the spiritual talisman. This is a temporary flying charm."

    The two patrol teams didn''t hesitate and attached a spiritual talisman to Lin Jiang. They were about to take him away. It finally dawned on Lin Jiang that something fishy was happening with Yue Qing.

    Soon, Lin Jiang arrived at the City Lord''s Mansion in the center of Medicine City. This is the heart of Medicine City, where many institutions that govern the city are located, including the centralmand of the city''s defense formation.

    "Disciple Xiao Yi greets Martial Uncle."

    "Stop talking nonsense. Yue Qing said you have a way to handle the current situation. Hurry up and tell me, what should we do?"

    A middle-aged man literally grabbed Lin Jiang by the cor to speak, looking truly urgent.

    "Martial Uncle, I..."

    "Don''t babble, just say what you need to say. It''s okay if you make a mistake. Hurry up."

    "Yes, then the disciple will speak. Firstly, we need to control the flow. The number of people has exceeded Medicine City''s capacity, so we must limit the influx."

    "How do we control the flow? These people were invited by our Five Elements Sect through our advertising. If we don''t let them into the city, what will happen to our reputation?"

    "There are four city gates. Three gates are for exit only, while one gate is for entry only. Instruct the disciples conducting the entrance checks to intentionally slow down the process. This way, we can control the number of people entering the city."

    "Okay, did you hear? Do as he said and go quickly."

    Zhang Wanjing immediately said to the people around him, and several members of the patrol team quickly flew out.

    "Martial Uncle, if there''s nothing else, I''ll go first."

    "No rush, no rush. Tell me, how do we deal with all the various sudden events in the city?"

    "We can only transfer people from the sect."

    "Aside from transferring people, what else can we do?"

    "Medicine City is divided into four areas: southeast, northwest, and each area has a mediation point. Whether it''s a conflict between cultivators, or between cultivators and merchants, they all need to be resolved at the mediation point. No one is allowed to stay in one ce, otherwise there will be too many onlookers and it may cause overcrowding."

    "Let me ask you again, how do we prevent overcrowding and stampede idents in one area?"

    "Limit the number of people."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Already came in, on a certain street"

    "The street only has two intersections left, all the other intersections in the middle are temporarily closed. One intersection for entering and one for exiting, with many disciples guarding the entrances and exits. They form a human wall and have people observe from the sky. If there are too many people on a certain street, they immediately inform the disciples on both sides. The entrance is blocked by the human wall, while the exit is opened to speed up the passage."

    "Okay, remember it all, quickly make arrangements. If we don''t have enough manpower, we can deploy disciples from the sect. All participating sect disciples will receive double Merit Points."

    Zhang Wanjing finally showed a smile and immediately told the person next to him. Someone went to convey the message.

    "Martial Uncle, I..."

    "Am I scary? Are you in such a hurry to leave?"

    "No, disciple dare not."

    "Let me ask you, as an outer disciple in the Qi Refining Period, how do you know about these things?"

    "In response to Martial Uncle, disciple had some business in the city, so half a year ago, I already read through the travel records in the sect''s Library Pavilion about the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. These ideas were not created by disciples, but have been used multiple times in Yunzhong City before."

    Lin Jiang honestly answered that he saw these things with his own eyes. Yunzhong City actually did that, and there were indeed people who wrote about it in the travel notes of the disciples of the Five Elements Sect, but they just mentioned it briefly.

    "Those useless people in the sect are not as useful as an outer disciple. They clearly have mature experience in Yunzhong City, but they don''t know how to use it, and they are all fighting for power and profit."

    Zhang Wanjing became furious when he heard this. The Medicine Conference became a cake in the eyes of everyone in the sect. Everyone was trying to get a piece of the cake, but no one thought about how to do this thing well. It made him extremely angry.

    Now Lin Jiang dared not speak anymore, because even he knew that everyone in the sect was indeed thinking about how to get rich. If we talk about who the biggest opportunists are this time, it is definitely not someone like Lin Jiang, but those big shots in the sect, even the entire Five Elements Sect.

    "Yue Qing"

    "Here, disciple."

    "You all go back first. When the Medicine Conference is over, bring Xiao Yi to my cave."

    Zhang Wanjing realized he had made a mistake and stopped saying more. Instead, he said one more sentence to Yue Qing.

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Yue Qing politely answered and quickly left the City Lord''s residence with Lin Jiang.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, congrattions! You''re going to be sessful. Zhang Martial Uncle has achieved the advanced level of cultivation called ''golden core.'' He holds an important position in the sect."

    As they walked out, Yue Qing smiled and told Lin Jiang that he wouldn''t mention that Zhang Wanjing had asked him a simr question earlier and he couldn''t answer. That''s why he immediately decided to sell Lin Jiang.

    "Senior Brother Yue is just joking. How can a few words impress Zhang Martial Uncle''s discerning eye?"

    "Haha, Junior Brother Xiao, you don''t understand. Zhang Martial Uncle is different from others. He doesn''t require his disciples to have exceptional talent, but he values those who can aplish tasks and take care of sect matters. Based on your recent performance, Zhang Martial Uncle has noticed you. Your good days areing!"

    "I see."

    Lin Jiang answered that Zhang Wanjing belonged to the practical faction of the Five Elements Sect. However, Lin Jiang wasn''t interested in that because he knew that many practical-minded people tended to take credit for others'' work and shift me. He just wanted to be a scoundrel, not an honest person.

    "Remember me when you be sessful, don''t forget your senior brother. We were dorm mates for three years!"

    "Ahem, when you be wealthy and powerful, don''t forget about those who helped you along the way."

    Lin Jiang said casually. If it weren''t for the Five Spirit Manual, who would remember you, Yue Qing?

    "Let''s go, today is the first day of the Medicine Conference. Let''s see how our business goes."

    "Let''s bring the person in first, then we can talk."

    "It''s a small matter, I''ll just go and find my great-uncle."

    Yue Qing said. My great-uncle is Zhang Wanjing''s trusted subordinate and also a small leader in Medicine City. It''s not difficult for him to handle this matter.

    Lin Jiang and Yue Qing walked out of City Lord''s Mansion. They saw that there were still many people outside, but they also saw many disciples wearing Five Elements Sect uniforms. It seems that the sect has sent people to provide support.

    As more and more disciples of the Five Elements Sect joined, order began to be restored. When Lin Jiang passed by a street corner, he saw that some disciples of the Five Elements Sect had formed a human wall on the bustling street, restricting the flow of people.

    "The Five Elements Sect is notpletely useless, they are quite efficient."

    Lin Jiang was very satisfied with this. The thousand-year-old sect still had some heritage, and there were also many people who did practical work. Not all of them were opportunistic or useless.

    "Senior Brother YueгмSenior Brother Xiao"

    The two quickly met with several partners.

    "Senior Brother Jiang, how are the boxed meals selling now?"

    "Good, not just good, but especially good."

    "What do you mean by good? How many have been sold?"

    Yue Qing immediately asked, he had been busy with other things and hadn''t really paid attention to this matter.

    Senior Brother Yue, business is booming! There are so many people in Medicine City now. Restaurants, taverns, street vendors, they are all packed. Not to mention finding a seat, they don''t even have time to cook. Many people are hungry, and our boxed meals are so convenient to eat and throw away.

    And our prices are also advantageous. We stocked up on spiritual paddy and monster meat half a year ago, so they are cheap. The prices in the city have skyrocketed. We sell a little cheaper than those street vendors. If they dare to lower their prices, we will lower ours a little too. We will always be a little cheaper than them. Sixteen junior brothers who sell boxed meals have already made several trips. We need to add more people in Jiangshan Town.

    "Add, add more. This kind of opportunityes once every hundred years. We must eat to our heart''s content."

    Lin Jiang immediately said. These big celebration events in Daqing cannot happen often. They only happen once every few decades. This is a rare opportunity that we cannot miss.

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122

    Medicine City

    Inside a house, Lin Jiang walked in and there were already five disciples from the Five Elements Sect waiting. When they saw Lin Jiang, they smiled.

    "Brothers, our lucky charm has arrived."

    "Brother Zhao, you''re teasing us. I''m not a lucky charm, you guys are."

    Lin Jiang chuckled and said. This is Brother Zhao, who previously worked with me to earn Merit Points. He''s a disciple from the Five Elements Sect''s Talisman Hall named Zhao Jiang.

    "Brother Zhao, let''s not waste time on small talk. Let''s divide the spirit stones. I still have to go back to my duty."

    "Same here, dividing the spirit stones is important."

    The rest of the group were a little nervous, tonight they were going to divide the spirit stones.

    "Okay, let''s divide the spirit stones. Today we have a total of twenty stalls, and we sold..."Zhao Jiang took out the books and read them to everyone.

    Lin Jiang didn''t just cooperate with Yue Qing, but with several others too. Zhao Jiang and his group of Talisman Makers were included. Almost five months ago, Lin Jiang convinced them to join him, and their goal was to create spiritual talismans.

    They received discounts when purchasing materials for drawing symbols within the Five Elements Sect. The prices were much lower than the market outside. Even in the Talisman Hall, they had extra materials. Because of the sess rate, they required thirteen materials to draw ten symbols.

    Lin Jiang convinced them to buy arge amount of materials and then sell the symbols at a low price. The Five Elements Sect had a constant influx of neers, and Lin Jiang convinced them to teach talisman techniques. The condition was that they had to sell all their spiritual talismans, except those needed for sect tasks, at cost price to Lin Jiang within six months.

    Lin Jiang personally guided them in teaching talisman techniques. With his level of expertise, it was more than enough to instruct these first-level Talisman Makers. Eventually, they didn''t even need to find people; others came to them.

    As a result, ordinary disciples learned more talisman techniques, while Lin Jiang and his group umted arge number of spiritual talismans. So many, in fact, that they couldn''t fit them all in several storage bags.

    At the current Medicine Conference, they hired disciples in the Qi Refining Period to help them sell spiritual talismans. They had a total of twenty people, and they obtained the best locations in the market of Medicine City.

    The result, just as Lin Jiang expected, was very good. The spiritual talisman sold very well, and within one day, they sold seven to eight thousand of them.

    "Wow, no wonder Senior Brother Xiao is called the God of Wealth. In just one day, we''ve almost earned back our investment. Tomorrow we''ll definitely make a profit, and the day after, it''ll be pure profit. This is more than what we earn in a whole year at Talisman Hall."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Are you dreaming? Talisman Hall can only earn a few spirit stones. But Senior Brother Xiao is really a God of Wealth. Senior Brother Xiao, after the Medicine Conference is over, I''ll treat you to a drink. You can''t refuse."

    "Me too! I''ve lived for thirty-five years and never earned this many spirit stones. Senior Brother Xiao, from now on, you''re like a big brother to me."

    After dividing the spirit stones, everyone became excited. ording to the investment ratio, even the lowest amount they received was seven or eight hundred spirit stones. They would make back their investment in just two days, and after that, it would all be profit.

    "Brothers, we still have plenty of time left in the ten-day Medicine Conference. During our Qi Refining Period, we can go without sleep for three to five days. Let''s spend some time drawing more talismans and earning a little more."

    "Senior Brother Xiao is right. I''m going to leave first. I don''t need to be on duty today. I n to stay up all night drawing talismans."

    "I''m going back to the sect and get another batch of talisman papers. I''ll make those disciples work all night drawing talismans for me. This time, I''ll make a killing."

    Some people were determined to stay up all night drawing talismans, while others were eager to convince others to stay up all night too. Everyone was as excited as if they had taken a stimnt.

    Zhao Jiang wanted to drink with Lin Jiang, but it seems like they can''t drink now. They decided to meet up and have a drink after the Medicine Conference. Everyone dispersed immediately.

    But Lin Jiang didn''t go back to his own ce. Instead, he went to another courtyard where a few people were waiting for him. The leader was Zheng Yi, whom Lin Jiang had been working with for many years. Even though decades had passed, Zheng Yi still had not achieved his goal. He had missed the opportunity to build a foundation, but he had gotten married and had children. His two sons and one daughter all had special abilities. Lin Jiang took advantage of this and convinced Zheng Yi to invest his wealth with him.

    "Senior Brother Xiao"

    "Senior Brother Xiao"

    "Senior Brother Zheng, how is the situation?"

    "There are good and bad aspects. Which one would Senior Brother Xiao like to hear?"

    Zheng Yi said that Lin Jiang had approached him for a business project in the "residential" sector of the "food, clothing, shelter, and transportation" industry. Lin Jiang remembered the crowded situation at the major inns in Yunzhong City back then, and that some people even stayed overnight in rented yards as independent cultivators.

    So, after convincing Zheng Yi to invest, Lin Jiang started nning three months ago in Medicine City. He secured the rights to use five inns and hundreds of houses for a period of four months, at a slightly higher price than the market value.

    At that time, people in Medicine City didn''t know what the Medicine Conference would be like. When they saw that Lin Jiang was offering a higher price than the market, they mostly agreed.

    In the first three months, they rented out these inns and houses for short stays, at the same price as usual. They made a little less profit, but then Lin Jiang made a request. He said that no matter who came to rent, they would not rent to them in the five days before the Medicine Conference, because prices would go up.

    So, their real money-making time started five days ago. As cultivators from various ces arrived one by one, the amodation prices in Medicine City increased daily. They weren''t being unfair - they raised prices just as much as others did. Today, the prices have doubledpared to normal, and they will continue to increase tomorrow.

    "I guess the bad news is that thendlords of these inns and houses are not happy, right?"

    Lin Jiang said, as expected. It''s human nature - how could they know that the Medicine Conference would be such a scene? Naturally, they covet the ie of Lin Jiang and the others.

    Actually, not many people expected this. Only the higher-ups know some details. Because this time, the Five Elements Sect has really put in a lot of effort. There are 5,000 types of spiritual herbs and 5,000 types of elixirs. It''s uncertain if they have that many. But the Five Elements Sect has made it clear that just their sect alone will auction off 200 Building Foundation Pills this time. This is a fatal temptation for independent cultivators and cultivators from smaller factions. It''s really difficult for them to get even one Building Foundation Pill on regr days.

    "Senior Brother Xiao predicts things urately. It''s indeed so. Most of thendlords are going to break the contracts. Senior Brother Xiao, do you have a way to remedy this?"

    "What about the previous contracts?"

    "They are with me."

    "That''s good. These customers andndlords have different backgrounds. We treat them differently. If they are weaker than us, we can use our power to pressure them and make them reconsider. If they are stronger than us, then we can take legal action. Whether it''s the administrative office of Medicine City or the Law Enforcement Hall of the sect, we have a solid case. We''re not afraid of making a big fuss. If they insist on taking it back, then we''llpensate them ording to the contract."

    Lin Jiang said, they are in the right in this matter. Lin Jiang is not afraid of causing a scene. They need to uphold the appearance of fairness in both the sect and the city.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, this might offend many people."

    "Senior Brother Zheng, if we are afraid of offending people, then we won''t make this money. We live our whole lives, can you guarantee not offending anyone?"

    "No, we can''t."

    "Then it''s settled. Let''s all work together. Those with connections should use them, and even if you don''t have connections, you should act confidently. We are poor people, and this is our chance to turn the tables. Whoever dares to stop us, we''ll fight them to the end."

    Lin Jiang encouraged loudly. In fact, they had carefully chosen the patrons andndlords. They wouldn''t dare to ept anyone with a strong background. The powerful people here were only slightly stronger than them, not to the extent that they wouldn''t dare to resist.

    Lin Jiang''s words made many people''s eyes turn red. Those in the room were mostly part of Zheng Yi''s professional team, which consisted of poor people in the sect. They had been poor for decades, and now they had a chance to turn their lives around. If anyone tried to stop them, they were ready to fight to the death.

    "Senior Brother Xiao is right. I''ve been farming for decades, but I haven''t made as much in the past half month. Anyone who dares to stand in my way, I''ll fight them."

    "I feel the same. I haven''t started a family anyway. I''m just a bachelor, hoping to live a carefree life with these spirit stones. If I have to suffer for decades, I might as well die."

    "My son is close topleting the Building Foundation stage, and I hope to use this money to buy the Building Foundation Pill. Anyone who dares to stand in the way of my son''s future, I will fight with all my might."

    Several people expressed their opinions, saying that they had endured years of poverty and now the opportunity to be wealthy was right in front of them. They would not miss this chance again.

    "Alright, let''s not talk about this anymore. We''ll deal with them tomorrow. For now, let''s divide the spirit stones."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, the spirit stones have all been divided. Here is the ount book, and here are the spirit stones. Your share, please check it."

    "No need, I trust Senior Brother Zheng. There will be more people tomorrow, and there will also be a rise in bandits outside the city. The property prices will increase. You all have to resist the temptation and not raise the prices prematurely, especially for those who have booked for many days. Don''t increase the prices at thest minute and provoke the anger of the people."

    "Understood, Senior Brother Xiao."

    "If you want to make more money, you can think of other ways, such as those residential houses with yards. You can build a few more rooms in the yard and leave a pathway. After all, it''s only for a few days, so the prices can be a bit lower. Don''t worry, there will be tenants."

    Lin Jiang continued to teach them various tricks. Whatever kind of trick there was for subletting, he would teach them. Safety andfort weren''t considered, as it was only for a short period, around ten days.

    This time, he was not only a profiteer, but also a dishonest merchant, a merchant without morals.

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123

    Medicine City, the third day of the Medicine Conference.

    Lin Jiang stood on a tall balcony, looking into the distance. His eyes were still filled with a crowd, like a popr tourist spot during a holiday.

    "These are moving people, no, these are moving spirit stones!"

    Lin Jiang was in a great mood. Three spective projects, all of them were sessful. The most profitable one was selling boxed lunches. By selling them at a low price, they outdid the small vendors in the city and even managed to put some lower-end restaurants out of business.

    The sixteen Qi Refining Period disciples who tried selling boxed lunches to Lin Jiang and his friends, each of them got hit twice. They were disliked by many people. But Yue Qing wasn''t one to be taken lightly. He brought in a senior rtive from his family to teach those attackers a lesson.

    Half of the frozen meat from three warehouses had already been used up. While Yue Qing continued to restock, he went to ces farther away from Medicine City. Every night, his close friends were thrilled and stayed up all night counting their spirit stones.

    Have you heard the saying "Closed for three years, open for three years, and that''s how it goes"?

    "Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. I''ve got a touch of each. Except for the clothing industry, I''m involved in everything rted to food, shelter, and transportation. Today, it''s time for the fourth spective project, which is about transportation."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, this time at the Medicine Conference, he engaged in four risky projects, each one carefully nned. He coborated with the people from Talisman Hall, not only to make money but also to win over a group of people from Talisman Hall.As for the residence, he worked with a group of people including Zheng Yi. He valued the unity of Zheng Yi and his group. Lin Jiang had been at Qingyang Mountain for twenty years, and apart from those who left the sect after reaching a certain age, Zheng Yi''s group remained unchanged. They had always been oldrades, demonstrating their strong unity. This kind of team was quite powerful. Most of them had descendants who could cultivate in the future, and they might be able to help each other. At the very least, they could establish a good rtionship.

    On Yue Qing''s side, the main focus was on making money. Moreover, there was a bit of ttery involved. Yue Qing was good at researching and had many friends in the Building Foundation Period, which brought many benefits to Lin Jiang''s risky undertakings.

    The fourth project was about traveling. Lin Jiang had participated in the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration twice and knew the current situation outside the city. Thieves were rampant, most of whom were ordinary cultivators within the city. It was only the temptation of huge benefits that turned them into thieves. Every time such arge gathering took ce, it turned into a ughter outside the city. One could only imagine how many lives would be lost.

    Since there was danger, there would also be a need. And the demand was very high. Lin Jiang had already made arrangements a long time ago.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I''m at the City Lord''s Residence. Come quickly."

    In the afternoon, Lin Jiang received a message using the Sound Passing Talisman. Inside was a single sentence. Lin Jiang immediately went to the City Lord''s Residence.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I''m here."

    A serious-looking strong man waved his hand at Lin Jiang, who eagerly walked over.

    "Hello, Uncle Zhang Martial."

    Lin Jiang greeted a person named Zhang Shuhua, who was a cool disciple he had brushed Merit Points with before. Later, Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua had worked together a few times, so they were somewhat familiar with each other.

    Afterward, Lin Jiang asked a guide to find out which Building Foundation Period experts were powerful within the sect. The guide introduced Zhang Shuhua and listed his brilliant achievements.

    Zhang Shuhua was a well-known Merit Points hunter among the outer disciples. Within the Qi Refining Period, he almost single-handedly took over more than half of the difficult and high Merit Points tasks, especially killing evil cultivators and hunting down traitors. He had a record of killing those at the early stages of the Building Foundation Period, but nobody knew how he did it.

    In short, most people described him in two words: ruthless and incredibly strong.

    This made Zhang Shuhua an excellent partner for Lin Jiang. So Lin Jiang approached him and, with his persuasive tongue, sessfully convinced him.

    However, Lin Jiang had a small share in this venture. Firstly, because he didn''t have much money left after investing in three previous projects. Secondly, because Lin Jiang''s own abilities werecking, if he had arger share, there would inevitably be troublesome disputester on. Therefore, he only took a small portion, leaving the rest to Zhang Shuhua and his fellow disciples as a way to make friends.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I am sorry."

    "Ah"

    Lin Jiang was confused. Who wouldn''t be, hearing this for the first time? What is this guy up to? Is he nning to deceive me and take away my shares?

    "I told Zhang Martial Uncle about our matter."

    "What matter? Don''t make things up, we don''t care."

    Lin Jiang''s face changed, he immediately turned around to run, but as soon as he did, he saw Zhang Wanjing and abruptly stopped in his tracks.

    Fine, can''t run away. If we were outside the city, we could rely on Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to escape. But here, forget it.

    "Hello, Martial Uncle Zhang."

    "Xiao Yi, we meet again. It''s quick, isn''t it?"

    "Yes, look, the weather is really nice today."

    Lin Jiang felt embarrassed, as he was caught red-handed being scheming. Did the Five Elements Sect actuallymit the crime of scheming and betrayal?

    If not, then I won''t be in vain.

    "Come in, Martial Uncle Zu invites you for tea."

    "Martial Uncle Zu, let''s just talk here."

    Lin Jiang frowned. Drinking tea isn''t just a casual thing. This statement has multiple meanings. Please don''t make me guess randomly, I might misunderstand.

    "Don''t be afraid, I..."

    "I''m not afraid."

    "Martial Uncle is speaking, please don''t interrupt."

    Zhang Shuhua said. What''s going on? Have you no manners? Don''t you know you shouldn''t interrupt others while they''re speaking?

    "Please don''t scare him, Shuhua."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Xiao Yi, I''m not ming you foring, but to tell you that your business is gone, taken by the sect."

    "Martial Uncle, I don''t understand."

    Lin Jiang continued pretending to be dead, but he had already guessed what was going on.

    "It''s okay if you don''t understand, Martial Uncle. Anyway, thank you for your support. I will repay you the money you lent me, and I will also give you credit. Your suggestion was great, and I''ve already talked to the sect about it. I''ll try to see if I can apply for a Building Foundation Pill for you."

    "Building Foundation Pill! Oh, Martial Uncle, I understand now. It was my idea, my suggestion!"

    When Lin Jiang heard this, he couldn''t help but smile. The Building Foundation Pill was worth at least thirty thousand spirit stones. With his one-tenth share from Zhang Shuhua, how could he possibly receive so many spirit stones?

    "Shuhua, you young people talk it out. I have something to do, so I''ll leave first. After you finish talking,e get support from me with the spirit stones."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Young man, work hard. I have high hopes for you."

    Before leaving, Zhang Wanjing gave Lin Jiang an encouraging look.

    "Martial Uncle, may I ask, who is Martial Uncle Zhang to you?"

    "He is my father."

    "Oh."

    "Are you surprised?"

    "Then why don''t you call him ''father''?"

    "My father said that within the sect, we must address each other by our official rank (level of cultivation)."

    "Still not right, I asked about you. Without a powerful backer in the sect, if your father is a highly skilled steward with a golden core, you should have entered the inner sect. Why stay in the outer sect and take on dangerous tasks?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head. The news from the pimp should be very reliable, there shouldn''t be such a mistake.

    My father looks down on disciples who enter the inner sect right away. Inner sect disciples don''t have to do tasks for the sect, and they receive ten times the srypared to outer sect disciples. So they never understand the hardships of lower-level cultivators, they don''t know about the ways of the world. Even if their cultivation level is high, they think they''re useless. That''s why he specially applied to the sect, so that I could start from the outer sect.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    As for my identity, it''s simple. My mother is not a disciple of the Five Elements Sect. I joined the sect through her. My father and I didn''t say anything, so naturally no one knows."

    "Martial Uncle Zhang has great integrity, Xiao Yi greatly admires him."

    When Lin Jiang heard this, he was filled with respect. Being in a high position but not profiting from his own people, how selfless he must be. Could it be that Zhang Wanjing is the justice of the cultivation world?

    Lin Jiang knew he couldn''t be so selfless himself. He was just an ordinary person, consumed by worldly desires. But he greatly admired such individuals.

    "Many people still don''t know about this, please don''t spread it."

    "Don''t worry, no one else knows for sure."

    "Come with me to collect the spirit stone, I''ll give yours back to you."

    "Okay."

    "Don''t be sad, my dad noticed you, you''re lucky!"

    "Ahem, we need to be clear when we talk, we can''t be vague and let people misunderstand."

    "What does that mean?"

    "Nothing, just kidding, let''s go, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang shrugged, this person is really cold, doesn''t even know how to joke.

    On the other side of City Lord''s Manor, Lin Jiang took the spirit stone and saw twelverge flying ships. He couldn''t help but ask, "Does the sect want to expand our business?"

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua''s cooperative project was to jointly buy arge flying ship and start a transportation business. They would have Zhang Shuhua, a strong cultivator in the Building Foundation Period, as the transporter, and the backing of the Five Elements Sect. Lin Jiang believed that no bandit would dare to attack them.

    With thisrge flying vessel, we can easily fit hundreds of people inside. Each person could even receive ten spirit stones. If the journey is long, the fare could be even higher. By making three to five trips a day, we can easily earn tens of thousands of spirit stones.

    "You have a narrow perspective."

    "Then please, Martial Uncle, enlighten me."

    "It''s free. My father applied to the sect for it. In order to host a sessful Medicine Conference and allow it to continue, he specially requested twelverge flying vessels. Each vessel will be guarded by a cultivator at the Golden Core Period, with a Nascent Soul Ancestor avable for support. Twelve routes have been selected, and anyone traveling on these routes can ride for free. Though we may not be able to cater to all the visiting cultivators, we can amodate around seventy to eighty percent of them."

    "Martial Uncle, I... I can only say that I admire you."

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath. This time, he was truly astonished by Zhang Wanjing''s move. It was something he never expected, a grand strategy beyond the ordinary.

    "Father, well...forget it. I am also a guardian disciple and don''t have time to chat with you. I will find you after the Medicine Conference."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head. His father had faced severe criticism regarding the transportation of the flying vessels. It required a significant expenditure of spirit stones to operate the twelve vessels and allocate personnel for protection. Originally, this could have been a great opportunity for the sect to earn arge amount of spirit stones.

    With hundreds of thousands of cultivators attending, if each person could contribute three to five spirit stones, imagine how much that would amount to. However, due to his father''s narrow perspective, that money was lost, and who knows how many people now resent him.

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124

    Medicine City

    Envoys from Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect stood at the city gate, watching the orderly queue of independent cultivators waiting to board the flying boat. Their expressions were unpleasant.

    The Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration was always filled with continuous killings. Don''t they know that? They must know. Don''t they know that they can use flying boats for transportation too? They know.

    Then why not do it this way, for the benefit?

    Twelve flying boats, twelve golden cores, plus dozens of Building Foundations, how much money would that be? Do you really think that Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are charity organizations?

    They also thought about charging money, but it''s too troublesome. Cultivators from different cese from different distances, so it would be so much trouble to determine how much to charge. Since it''s troublesome, they just don''t do it. After all, the ones who die are not their people, just some independent cultivators and disciples of small factions. They''re just like leeks, arge batch will grow out a hundred yearster.

    "Now the pressure is on us. If we don''t go along with it, both sects will definitely be criticized."

    "Yeah, throwing away hundreds of thousands of spirit stones like this, Five Elements Sect is really generous."

    "I heard that even the Five Elements Sect didn''t want to, but it was Zhang Wanjing who insisted on it, and even rmed the important people in the Five Elements Sect.""Zhang Wanjing, having someone like this in the Five Elements Sect, I wonder if it''s a blessing or a curse."

    "If a tree stands tall in the forest, the wind will surely break it. If the wind can''t break it, then it must be a towering tree."

    The envoys of the two sects were in conversation. Although the sects often carried out shady actions, they had to maintain a righteous appearance on the surface. They were well-acquainted with human nature, which tends towards goodness and, at the very least, requires kindness from others.

    Now that the Five Elements Sect has taken the lead, they can''t be left behind. Just the thought of wasting hundreds of thousands of spirit stones makes them feel a great heartache.

    "Let''s go back and study it. The Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration should have some new ideas."

    "Alright, when the timees, we willmunicate with the two sects. We can''t let the Five Elements Sect surpass us."

    The envoys of the two sects had a great understanding. In their view, the wealth of independent cultivators and smaller cultivator forces in the cultivation world is constant. If the Five Elements Sect gains more, then they will get less. Now that the Five Elements Sect is starting topete with them, they have to work harder and strive to snatch back their share.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Day ten of the Medicine Conference

    In the afternoon, in Jiangshan Town, Lin Jiang and Yue Qing went to the warehouse to separate spirit stones. The piles of spirit stones almost filled the warehouse, and everyone''s eyes were almost blinded by the bright shine of the spirit stones.

    At this moment, Yue Qing couldn''t help but admire Lin Jiang. He had made everyone take a solemn vow in advance, otherwise they would have started fighting each other by now. Money really has a way of stirring people''s hearts.

    "Jiang Shu, have you settled the ounts?"

    Yue Qing asked. Jiang Shu was a local in Jiangshan Town and one of Yue Qing''s sworn brothers.

    "Senior Brother Yue, the ounts have been settled."

    "Give me a general idea."

    "Alright, including today, we sold a total of one million three hundred and twenty-five thousand six hundred small box lunches, ny-seven thousand eight hundred medium box lunches, and eight hundred and fifty-three thousandrge box lunches. The price of a small box lunch is twenty spiritual beads, a medium box lunch is thirty-five spiritual beads, and arge box lunch is sixty spiritual beads. The prices have fluctuated slightly, and there have been discounts for bulk purchases. The total ie is..."

    Jiang Shu exined the ounts one by one. These millions of orders were not sold in just these ten days, but also included the quantities sold in the previous four months. There were also daily sales ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand.

    "After deducting warehouse rent, formation operation, personnel wages, and the cost of box lunch ingredients, our profit is 153,800 spirit stones, plus several thousand spiritual beads which haven''t been converted into spirit stones yet."

    "Even if it''s 150,000 spirit stones, the remaining thousand spirit stones will be divided among others as their bonuses."

    "Senior Brother Yue, take a look..."

    "Listen to Xiao Yi, we''ve earned over a hundred thousand spirit stones, don''t hog it all for yourself."

    Yue Qing immediately agreed with Lin Jiang''s suggestion, while Jiang Shu and others, although feeling a little reluctant, also agreed.

    There were sixty people (excluding mortals) who helped them, the number of people selling box lunches increased to thirty, and there were also thirty people helping to cook in the warehouse. They had been working almost non-stop with only two hours of sleep a day for the past ten days. It was veryborious, so it was normal to give them more money.

    "We started with a capital of 50,000 spirit stones. The subsequent investments are all made from the money we earned. Now we are calcting pure profit. I invested 10,000 spirit stones and took a 20% share. Calcte mine first."

    "Yes, Senior Brother Yue."

    "In less than six months, exchanging 10,000 for 30,000. Junior Brother Xiao, I admire you."

    Yue Qing received the spirit stone, he sighed and thought that it only took about six months, and he didn''t even have to do much, he just helped connect people, the money was too easy.

    "I invested twenty thousand spirit stones and got sixty thousand, not bad."

    Lin Jiang also received his share of the money, he earned forty thousand spirit stones, which is almost the cost of a Building Foundation Pill, enough for him.

    The remaining sixty thousand was divided among Jiang Shu and the other three people, each of them could at least get ten thousand. They were also very happy because their previous annual ie was only about two thousand. This was the result of Yue Qing''s support. If no one had helped, it would have been even worse. In just six months, they earned at least five years'' worth of ie. This was definitely a huge profit for them.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, shall we find a ce to celebrate?"

    "Not today, I still have things to do."

    "Alright, it seems like you''re very busy now."

    "Martial Uncle Zhang needs me for something."

    "Then congrattions to you even more."

    Yue Qing raised an eyebrow and realized that Lin Jiang was the real winner. Not only did he make money, but he also joined Zhang Wanjing Magical Eye, which meant a bright future ahead.

    "Senior Brothers, what should we do with the remaining materials?"

    "Keep selling them. The people in Medicine City won''t buy everything at once, and there are already hundreds of thousands of residents there. Keep arranging for people to continue selling the remaining materials. Use the profits to buy more raw materials, but be mindful of the production volume. Don''t bring in too much at once. In short, we won''t invest more money, but we''ll keep doing business. Whatever we earn is our long-term source of wealth."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Junior Brother Xiao is right. Jiang Shu, decide whether you want to monitor it yourself or ask our brothers to do it. Any profit you make from now on is pure profit. Don''t waste it."

    "Senior Brother, I''m nning to try breaking through the Building Foundation level. I''ll leave this matter to the other brothers."

    "Okay, I trust you. You make the arrangements. Let''s meet in Medicine City in a few days to celebrate."

    Yue Qing nodded. There won''t be such huge profits in the future, but consistent and steady ie is still good. As long as there are cultivators in Medicine City, there will always be a market for them.

    Lin Jiang and Yue Qing left together. Jiangshan Town was only thirty miles away from Medicine City and was within the patrol range of the disciples of the Five Elements Sect. It was quite safe.

    After returning to Medicine City, Lin Jiang immediately went to see Zheng Yi and the others. Zheng Yi distributed spirit stone daily, so there was norge sum today. However, adding it all up, Lin Jiang received a dividend of nearly 20,000 spirit stones from Zheng Yi. He had invested 5,000 spirit stones.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, let''s find a ce to meet up. Our brothers have been tired these days, much more tired than farming."

    "Senior Brother Zheng, rest when you''re tired. We can celebrate anytime. I have something to do here. Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle needs me."

    Lin Jiang mentioned Zhang Wanjing again. Now he wants to take advantage of Zhang Wanjing''s influence. His involvement in multiple spective projects won''t stay hidden for long. In just half a year of being at the Qi Refining stage, he earned at least seventy to eighty thousand spirit stones. This is a dangerous situation. Without protection, someone will surelye to exploit him for his wealth, although Lin Jiang is not afraid, he doesn''t want to reveal his true strength.

    "Okay, let''s meet up again in the future."

    Zheng Yi heard that Zhang Wanjing was looking for Lin Jiang and immediately didn''t dare to say much. He felt a little disappointed. Theye from humble origins and have always been honest and hard-working. Despite their dedication, they haven''t earned much money. This time, they witnessed Lin Jiang''s talent and wanted to befriend him, hoping that Lin Jiang will continue to lead them to prosperity.

    ording to the contract, they still have about half a month to take care of the residential and inn properties. Lin Jiang told them to continue renting them out and keep the money they earn for themselves.

    After finishing up some final matters, Lin Jiang went to find Zhao Jiang. The ie from Zhao Jiang''s ce was even more impressive. The profit from spiritual talismans couldn''t be determined in advance and relied on the skill of the Talisman Maker. However, spiritual talismans are in high demand among cultivators, along with weapons and medicinal pills. It''s rare to find a cultivator without a few spiritual talismans on them, unless they are extremely poor.

    Zhao Jiang''s group was evenrger, and they had prepared arger quantity of spiritual talismans. After ten days, Lin Jiang earned over seventy thousand spirit stones. His total ie from the Medicine Conference exceeded one hundred thousand spirit stones.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, let''s find a ce to drink. How about the Sweet Red Building? I heard there are many young fairies there this time."

    Zhao Jiang and a few others gave Lin Jiang a knowing look, like brothers who understood each other.

    Lin Jiang had been living a virtuous life for the past twenty or thirty years, but now a rebellious fire ignited within him. Still, he shook his head and said. Never mind, Senior Brother Zhao. We have been quite conspicuous these past few days. It''s time toy low and quietly make our fortune. The Sweet Red Building can be visited at any other time; there''s no need to join in the excitement right now.

    "Senior Brother Zhao, Senior Brother Xiao is right. Let''s go back to the mountain gate. I feel like it''s dangerous here."

    Lin Jiang''s words received agreement from the others. Their activities at Talisman Hall were quite noticeable, considering they involved over a hundred Talisman Makers. It was impossible to keep it a secret.

    "Go away, kid. You have a partner, but I don''t. Once I have money, why shouldn''t I enjoy myself? What''s the point of earning money?"

    "Haha, Senior Brother Zhao is right. Anyway, I''m going to the Sweet Red Building tonight. At least I''ll have a heart-to-heart conversation with two pretty fairies."

    "With your scrawny build, you won''t be able to handle two. Don''t end up dead at the Sweet Red Building."

    "Bah, I''ve got a strong backbone. I can handle ten."

    "Screw it, I don''t believe it. Dig it out and let''s see."

    "Stop messing around, let''s all disperse now. Those who want to go can go, those who want to return to the mountain gate can go back, disperse."

    When Lin Jiang saw a group of experienced drivers about to race, he couldn''t resist anymore. He had to go to Sweet Red Buildingter in the evening, there was an important matter to attend to.

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125

    Outside Medicine City

    200 miles away from Medicine City, there is a town called Ba Shan. It is surrounded by eight mountains, hence the name Ba Shan Town. Ba Shan Town is thergest popted town under the Five Elements Sect, it''s almost like a small city.

    When Lin Jiang arrived at Ba Shan Town, it was alreadypletely dark. He was wearing a long cloak, unable to see any physical features, and his spiritual sense couldn''t prate it either. This cloak is an extremely high-quality magical artifact.

    There is a ck market outside Yunzhong City, and of course there is one in Medicine City, too. It is set up in Ba Shan Town. Lin Jiang had alreadye here when he settled in Medicine City before, so he already knew the situation very well.

    He arrived at a residence in the ck market with ease. A middle-aged man appeared and said to Lin Jiang, "I don''t know what I can do to help the esteemed guest."

    "Get someone else, it''s a big deal."

    "Dear guest, please wait for a moment."

    The middle-aged man wasn''t angry and quickly left. It wasn''t long before a person wearing a mask appeared.

    "What important business brings a distinguished guest?""I want to use the Split Spirit Technique."

    "Split Spirit Technique, my, my, what skillful guest we have here! You actually know about this secret technique."

    "In one word, do you have it or not?"

    "Yes, but what do you have to exchange? This technique is of high grade, and only extraordinary items can be traded."

    "News about Pill King Li Ruoxu."

    "Please go ahead, distinguished guest."

    "News is unique. I spoke it out, you said it didn''t meet your requirements, and my news leaked again. I suffered a loss."

    "What does the esteemed guest want?"

    "I engraved the news on the jade scroll. We will exchange them at the same time. I am here, so you shouldn''t be afraid of me deceiving you, right?"

    "Okay."

    The masked person nodded. Pill King Li Ruoxu is a very special and important person in Yun State. Information about him has always been extremely valuable in the ck market. Some information can help certain people aplish important tasks, such as asking Li Ruoxu to refine powerful and crucial medicinal pills.

    The masked person brought the jade scroll of the Split Spirit Technique, while Lin Jiang also had a floating jade scroll in front of him. They exchanged the scrolls, and as soon as Lin Jiang received it, he immediately opened it and used his spiritual awareness to quickly understand its contents.

    "Pill King Li Ruoxu''s disciple, Wen Xing, is a very bad man who has many women."

    "Thief, how dare you deceive me!"

    After the masked person received Lin Jiang''s jade scroll, there was only one sentence. Suddenly, he became extremely angry and pped Lin Jiang with a palm, causing his body to instantly burst.

    After the explosion, instead of blood and flesh flying around, there were flying pieces of metal and wood, along with a storage bag.

    "Puppet"

    The masked person was extremely angry. He didn''t expect to be tricked by a puppet. He put away the storage bag, and the markings on it almost disappeared easily, inside it was a pile of spirit stones and a jade scroll.

    "Forgive me, Taoist friend. I don''t have anything valuable to trade for the Split Spirit Technique, so I can only offer these. There are fifty thousand spirit stones and a high-quality cloak, with a total value of eighty-five thousand. I hope you understand."

    When the masked man saw the words on the jade scroll, he became so angry that he burst intoughter.

    "Is my face worth so little?"

    The masked man sneered and then soared into the sky. He controlled the puppet with his divine sense, knowing that his real body must be nearby.

    However, when the masked man reached the sky above Baishan Town and released his divine sense, he didn''t see anyone. This greatly surprised him, and he murmured. It''s impossible, they ran away so fast in just an instant?

    "Could they still be in the ck market?"

    Soon, the Masked Man thought about whether it was a n, and quickly arrived at the town of Eight Mountains, patrolling everywhere.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "That was close! Luckily I went to the ck market before, I have a token, otherwise I would have been exposed."

    Lin Jiang sat on the back of Big Shadiao, already high up in the sky. This was Lin Jiang''s adventurous journey. He had already found out what he needed to exchange for the Split Spirit Technique.

    But he couldn''t afford it, and there was a greater probability that the ck market would raise the price, because the Split Spirit Technique was the best way to infiltrate the sect and avoid leaving behind a Soul Lamp mark. As soon as Lin Jiang made this request, they would know his intentions, and raising the price was inevitable.

    So Lin Jiang had nned ahead and bought a puppet in Medicine City. He attached his spiritual consciousness to the puppet and covered his body with a top-grade cloak to conceal himself and block his spiritual consciousness. In this way, he obtained the Split Spirit Technique through deception.

    "This can only be done around noon, because something bad will happen in the morning or evening."

    Lin Jiang sighed and controlled Big Shadiao tond in an uninhabited area outside of Medicine City. He was ready to go back to Medicine City. This trick could only be used once, as no one would fall for it a second time.

    Returning to Medicine City, there were still a lot of people. Today was thest day of the Medicine City Medicine Conference, which would end at daybreak. But there were still many activities tonight.

    Lin Jiang didn''t bother with anything else and went into the yard he rented. He took out the Split Spirit Technique and engraved it on a jade slip. Cultivators have exceptional memory, but as time passes, they may forget some things, so it''s better to write them down.

    The Split Spirit Technique is an extremely advanced secret technique. It is said to have been created by a powerful individual who extracted inspiration from the externalized incarnation during the Soul Changing Period. The Split Spirit Technique can split the cultivator''s soul, forming aplete individual soul that is closely rted to the original soul, almost identical.

    As long as the soul power is continuously provided, the split soul can exist indefinitely. The effect of the split soul is also extremely useful, for example, it can be refined into special spiritual talismans to resist soul-rted attacks and can also rece the original body to carry out dangerous tasks.

    However, this secret technique was quickly misused when someone discovered that it could bebined with puppetry to feign death and escape.

    The specific method is to split the soul in advance, then cultivate and strengthen it. Then, perform a second split from the split soul and give it to the other person to create a Soul Lamp or other secret techniques. Then, ce the first split soul into the puppet. When feigning death and escaping, all that is needed is to shatter the puppet, and it will appear to the other side that the soul master is dead, achieving the goal of feigning death.

    Currently, the major sects are unable to defend against this method. They can only try to monopolize the Split Spirit Technique and prevent it from spreading freely.

    Of course, not just anyone can feign death using the above method. It requires many conditions. First and foremost, the caster''s soul must be extremely strong and resilient. Otherwise, even if it''s just a first split, the caster could end up bing a fool.

    As for Lin Jiang, he discovered multiple methods to avoid the Soul Lamp, but he chose the Split Spirit Technique because he meets the necessary conditions. Very few people are able to cultivate the Soul Refining Technique, and it takes the consumption of Soul Nourishing Pills to sustain it for over a hundred years. Lin Jiang aplished this. Before re-cultivating, his cultivation was at the middle stage of Building foundation, but his soul power was not inferior to theter stage of Building foundation. Through re-cultivation, his cultivation was impacted, but his soul power was preserved.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao, what''s wrong with you? Your face is so pale."

    Two dayster, Yue Qing was surprised to see Lin Jiang at the entrance of the Five Elements Sect. What is Junior Brother Xiao up to?

    "If Senior Brother Yue were to spend two days at the Sweet Red Building, he would be the same."

    Lin Jiang said casually. Sweet Red Building my foot. He practiced the Split Spirit Technique and almost killed himself.

    "Junior Brother, you''re being reckless. Listen to Senior Brother''s advice, the women at the Sweet Red Building are like tigers, you should stay away from them."

    "Is that so? Then why did I hear Senior Brother Jiang say that Senior Brother Yue has several admirers at the Sweet Red Building?"

    "That''s just nder from Jiang Shu. Don''t listen to him."

    "Haha, Senior Brother, just kidding. I''ll go first."

    "Junior Brother, are you really this busy?"

    Yue Qing quickly said that he wanted tomunicate more with Lin Jiang to see if they could make more money.

    Lin Jiang ignored him, saying that spection is only idental fortune and should not be a regr way to earn a living, otherwise you never know how things will end up.

    Lin Jiang arrived at the inner gate and finally reached Zhang Wanjing''s residence. In the inner gate area, one can establish a residence during the Building Foundation Period, but the size of the residence cannot exceed ten acres. During the Golden Core Period, the size can be up to fifty acres.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Fifty acres in the inner gate is already very impressive. The spiritual energy here is tens of times higher than the outer gate. Besides, it is a sign of status and position.

    "Martial Uncle Zhang"

    At Zhang Wanjing''s residence, Lin Jiang saw Zhang Shuhua and quickly greeted him.

    "What''s wrong? Why do you look so pale and unstable?"

    "I had a little trouble with my cultivation practice, but it''s nothing serious. It''s all fine now."

    "Cultivation practice requires steady progress. If you don''t understand something, you cane and ask me."

    "I can''t just enter this inner door freely."

    "After today, you will also be an inner disciple."

    "I haven''t agreed yet."

    "Haha."

    Zhang Shuhuaughed coldly. The esteemed ancestor with a perfected golden core has epted you as a disciple, and you still refuse?

    "Greetings, Martial Uncle."

    "No need for formalities, find a ce to sit on your own, I have no rules here."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang obediently sat down, and Zhang Shuhua also found a ce to sit.

    "Xiao Yi, I''ve managed to get credit for your achievements. Instead of giving you a Building Foundation Pill, I made an exception and promoted you to the inner sect. I also gave you ten bottles of high-quality Spirit Gathering Pills and allowed you to choose a lower-grade mysterious technique or secret art from the Library Pavilion."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle. Thank you, Sect."

    "Indeed, it''s a profitable venture. Not a single flicker of emotion when the Building Foundation Pill was gone."

    "I am grateful for the favors bestowed upon me by the sect, as they are like thunder and rain nurturing thend. Xiao Yi only knows gratitude."

    Lin Jiang quickly ttered. Come on, it''s just a Building Foundation Pill. I can afford it.

    "That statement sounds somewhat untrue."

    "He made a lot of money this time and can buy a Building Foundation Pill on his own."

    Zhang Shuhua chimed in, having secretly investigated as his father intended to take Lin Jiang as his disciple. Although he didn''t know the exact amount of money earned, it was definitely a significant sum, considering the few spection projects involved.

    "Xiao Yi, can you tell us how much money you made?"

    "Where can I find a lot of money? All the money I have is earned through hard work, a drop of sweat for a spirit stone, you know?"

    "Well, I don''t mind sweating every day."

    "So, Martial Uncle must be exchanging a drop of sweat for a Premium Spirit Stone."

    "Haha, no need to tter me. Let me ask you, would you like to be my disciple?"

    "Are you interested in being an official disciple or a special disciple?"

    "I never take official disciples."

    Zhang Wanjing said, expressing his strong distaste for taking official disciples. Those who do take official disciples just make them do all the chores, like servants or ves.

    "Disciple greets the Master."

    Lin Jiang quickly eximed, wanting to cling onto someone with aplete golden core. He would get angry if anyone tries to stop him.

 Chapter 126

    Chapter 126

    Five Elements Sect

    The Sect of the Five Elements is big and small. There are many disciples in the inner sect because they automatically promote to the inner sect during the Building Foundation Period. Considering the size of the Sect of the Five Elements, there are at least several hundred people in the Building Foundation Period. However, there are very few disciples in the inner sect who have reached the Qi Refining Period.

    Generally speaking, there are only three types of people in the inner sect who have reached the Qi Refining Period. The first type is those who are talented and show exceptional potential at the time of entry, with a Single Spiritual Root talent or a different kind of Spiritual Root. The second type is those who are admitted under special circumstances, such as Zhang Shuhua, who has a rtive in a high position within the sect and has decent aptitude. The third type is those who are admitted exceptionally due to outstanding contributions to the sect, like Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang was admitted exceptionally because he had made significant contributions to the sect.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Naturally, there are very few people who are admitted exceptionally, because in the minds of ordinary people, how much contribution can someone in the Qi Refining Period actually make to the sect. Thest exceptional admission was more than a hundred years ago.

    Therefore, Lin Jiang immediately became the center of attention in the inner sect''s Qi Refining Period. Lin Jiang''s past was immediately dug up and exposed to the sunlight.

    However, they quickly found out that Lin Jiang''s past had hardly any impressive highlights. Perhaps he did okay at the Shanxue School, but who knows how many others also did okay there. After the Shanxue School, Lin Jiang disappeared for almost twenty years, spending most of his time farming at the Qingyang Mountain. Besides interacting with Zheng Yi and his friends, he rarely socialized with others.

    It was only in the two years before the Medicine Conference that Lin Jiang started earning Merit Points at the Internal Affairs Hall of the outer sect, showing some activity. But logically speaking, this wasn''t very surprising. After farming for twenty years, Lin Jiang had learned a powerful talisman technique, and earning Merit Points didn''t require much effort.

    The only thing people found interesting was Lin Jiang''s spective venture at the Medicine Conference, the spiritual talisman project. It brought in a considerable amount of money with the box lunches and amodation. Many people were discussing how much money Lin Jiang made this time."Definitely a lot of money, during the entire Medicine Conference, those boxed meals were being sold everywhere, and the whole Medicine City was filled with those used meal boxes, at least a million of them."

    "A million of them, is there really that many?"

    "What do you think? With over a million people, three meals a day, multiplied by ten days, imagine how many that would be."

    "Not everyone eats though, right?"

    "Hehe, almost ny percent of the cultivators whoe from other ces are in the Qi Refining Period, and they are all poor. Can they afford to eat at restaurants? As long as thirty percent of the people eat boxed meals, it would be astronomical."

    "That''s true."

    "In my opinion, they should be fined for it. They sell boxed meals and then litter everywhere after eating, it looks extremely dirty. They should be charged for hygiene fees."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao is probably going to be in trouble."

    Inside the Zhang Wanjing''s cave, Zhang Shuhua said to Zhang Wanjing that he has officially be Zhang Wanjing''s disciple, both student and son, as the top disciple of Zhang Wanjing.

    "You underestimate your junior brother, he hasn''t done anything wrong."

    "Being outstanding in a group is not a good thing."

    "So you don''t truly understand your junior brother. He is an excellent person, for him, these small matters are nothing. Regardless of the discussions outside, as long as Xiao Yi remains firm in his beliefs, nothing else matters."

    "If he goes out..."

    "You have been in Qingyang Mountain for twenty years, do you think hecks patience like you?"

    Zhang Wanjing said. What do rumors and discussions matter? They are only useful for those whose beliefs are not strong. As long as one is ruthless, cold-hearted, thick-skinned, and able to handle any criticism, these hypocritical words mean nothing.

    It is indeed dangerous outside the mountain gate, but if they don''t leave, who would dare tomit murder within the Five Elements Sect?

    "Does father really have such high expectations of him?"

    "Is something wrong?"

    "I don''t think he''s that outstanding, but rather I think he''s more cunning."

    "Is it bad to be cunning? When you were at the Qi Refining Period, could you earn more than him?"

    "No, but not much less either."

    Zhang Shuhua said, as he was a hunter for Merit Points in the Outer Gate, how many tasks did he do, can he earn less?

    "What he earns is achieved by using his brain, not by working hard for a long time like you did in exhaustion."

    "That''s taking advantage of opportunities."

    "That''s also a skill, earning more at the Medicine Conference. Why don''t you earn as well?"

    "Dad doesn''t like using power for personal gain, you know."

    "Of course, I don''t like being selfish with power, but if someone has real skills, how can I not like them?"

    Zhang Shuhua stayed quiet; his father liked Xiao Yi, so whatever he did was right and made sense. There was no point in arguing.

    "Don''t underestimate your junior brother, really, Dad is not lying to you. A fierce warrior can rise from humble beginnings. Someone who can cause suchmotion even during the Qi Refining Period will definitely go far in the future. Though you are brave, youck flexibility. If one day I''m not here anymore, you and your younger brothers should get along well. He will be able to help you in many ways."

    Zhang Wanjing looked at his son''s scornful expression and said with deep meaning. Back in the day, he too started from nothing. Don''t underestimate others.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Yue"

    Zhang Wanjing''s residence, Yue Qing came to find Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang weed him inside. For a personal disciple, being like family to the master, Lin Jiang didn''t have the qualifications to have his own residence yet, so he moved into Zhang Wanjing''s residence.

    They moved into a big wilderness.

    "Congrattions, Junior Brother Xiao."

    "Please don''t say that, now I''m being targeted by everyone."

    "Haha, that''s just because those people are ipetent, and they only know how to envy others. Don''t think that all the disciples in the inner sect are exceptional, there are also a bunch of fools and idiots."

    "By saying that, you''re also including me in the scolding."

    "Don''t be too modest, if you''re too modest, others will think you''re easy to bully."

    Yue Qing said, as he looked at Zhang Wanjing''s cave dwelling. How envious he was! It was fifty acres in size, and other than the one acre of buildings, the rest was developed into spiritualnd, nted with valuable medicinal herbs. This is all money!

    "What does Senior Brother want me to do this time?"

    "Look at what you''re saying! Can''t youe visit me without any specific reason? It seems like you''ve climbed up the socialdder and forgotten about your old friends. Don''t forget, we even slept together for three years!"

    "Cough, we slept in the same courtyard for three years."

    "It''s all the same, it''s all the same."

    Lin Jiang reluctantly shook his head. This was different, and he didn''t want to be misunderstood if he said it out loud.

    "Junior Brother, what else do you think we can do to make some money?"

    "Senior Brother Yue, the Medicine Conference only ended a few days ago. Are you already short of money?"

    "Sigh, Junior Brother, you''re not an outsider. I''ll tell you the truth. When I was in the outer sect, I fooled quite a few people into helping me. But that''s all favors, and I can''t break my promises. If I earn spirit stones, I''ll use them to pay off my debts."

    Yue Qing said, his heart still not cruel enough. Those group of brothers, seeing him getting rich, all came to join him. In reality, they just wanted Yue Qing to repay them. Yue Qing had already spent a lot of money on them.

    "Opportunities for boxed meals like this onlye once, and there isn''t that much money to be made."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He only believed two out of ten sentences from Yue Qing. He had seen firsthand how this guy could deceive people.

    "Junior Brother..."

    "Senior Brother, there''s no need to say more. Right now, my main task is to build a foundation, so for the next few years, I won''t be doing much else. Cultivationes first."

    Lin Jiang said that he was openly forty-one years old and that building foundation was indeed very important.

    Moreover, Lin Jiang knew that he was in the spotlight right now, so if he dared to be high-profile at this time, it would be suicide. He had to keep a low profile, at least for another four or five years.

    Besides, Lin Jiang didn''t n on doing spective things often. Once was almost enough.

    "What the younger brother said is right. Cultivation is the most important. Younger brother, focus on improving yourself."

    Yue Qing immediately changed his tone. When he saw that Lin Jiang didn''t mean it, he didn''t say much either. As for those brothers, he would deceive them first before saying anything. He didn''t have the money, so he couldn''t really help them.

    The two chatted for a while, and then Lin Jiang escorted Yue Qing out. When he turned around, he saw Zhang Shuhua.

    "Big senior brother, is there something you need?"

    "Yue Qing, stoping around."

    "The younger brother understands."

    "Understood, if you have any questions about cultivation that you don''t understand, you can ask me while I''m at home for these few days."

    "Okay, I also need to go into seclusion for a period of time."

    Lin Jiang said. Being an inner disciple is really great. They don''t have to do anypulsory tasks. Their main task is cultivation, just focus on cultivating.

    The entire Five Elements Sect is divided into several levels. The higher levels are the ruling ss who control everything in the sect. The inner disciples are the reserve members of the higher levels and they enjoy the sect''s support and benefits.

    As for the outer disciples, they receive partial support and are responsible for most of the misceneous tasks in the sect. But they also receive benefits and have the opportunity to advance.

    Only those misceneous disciples are the most unfortunate ones. They are like old oxen, eating grass and producing milk. Their opportunity for advancement is very slim. Out of tens of thousands of misceneous disciples, at most one or two can be promoted to the outer disciples. In the past hundred years, very few misceneous disciples have been able to advance to the Building Foundation Period.

    Lin Jiang has now be a disciple under Zhang Wanjing''s guidance. In the Five Elements Sect, this means surpassing a level and bing a true beneficiary. He doesn''t have to do any tasks in the Qi Refining Period and can receive 60 spirit stones and 20 bottles of Spirit Gathering Pills each year as benefits. And those Spirit Gathering Pills are no longer the trashy ones from the outer disciples.

    The other benefits are also doubled. For example, the cafeteria for the inner disciples not only provides free meals, but the food is also spiritual and delicious, and filled with abundant spiritual energy.

    Zhang Shuhua didn''t say much and casually spoke a few sentences before leaving. Zhang Wanjing''s residence is not small, with several dozen buildings, but currently, only the three of them live here. Lin Jiang can choose from the avable rooms.

    "We still need to quickly establish our Building Foundations, open our own caves. Only then can we let Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao have some freedom. We can''t mistreat our old brothers."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao have been with him for nearly two hundred years. He needs to take care of them. The Spirit Beast Bag is too cramped.

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127

    Five Elements Sect

    Lin Jiang''s second time building a strong foundation was smooth sailing. When Zhang Wanjing epted him as his apprentice, Lin Jiang was already at the ninth level of Qi Refining. It didn''t take long for him to reach the peak of Qi Refining.

    The Building Foundation Pills were provided by Zhang Wanjing. He knew about Lin Jiang''s exceptional Five Spiritual Roots, so he gave him two pills at once. After that, Lin Jiang went into seclusion. With his previous experience in building a foundation, he easily seeded with just one pill.

    At this time, Lin Jiang publicly imed to be forty-six years old, but in reality, he was two hundred and forty-nine years old.

    "In a few months, I''ll be two hundred and fifty. I hope I don''t act foolishly."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Two hundred and fifty years old. In that time, a dynasty could rise and fall, and ordinary people could have ten generations.

    "Disciple Xiao Yi greeted his master."

    Afterpleting the foundation building, Lin Jiang immediately went to pay respects to Zhang Wanjing, as it is proper for a disciple to do so.

    "You did well, you didn''t disappoint me."Zhang Wanjing looked at Lin Jiang with satisfaction. The Five Spiritual Roots talent was not initially advantageous in the Five Elements Sect. The fact that Lin Jiang was able to break through the foundation building in one go shows that he has goodprehension. It doesn''t matter what other sects are like, the Five Elements Sect included.

    "It''s all thanks to the master."

    Lin Jiang said that Zhang Wanjing has been very good to him. Not only did he give him the Building Foundation Pill, but also provided supporting medicinal pills and guidance on foundation building.

    "The master can guide you through the door, but it is up to the individual to cultivate and one must make their own efforts."

    "Yes, master."

    "Now that you havepleted the foundation building, things will be different. What are your ns for the future?"

    "Relying solely on Master''s decision"

    "If I could arrange it, I would like you to work by my side. I need help urgently, but I''m also afraid it might inconvenience you."

    "Master, this..."

    Lin Jiang was a bit confused. What did Zhang Wanjing mean by this?

    "Xiao Yi, do you know about Master''s situation?"

    "Disciple doesn''t understand. Disciple was just an ordinary outer disciple before."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He really had no idea about Zhang Wanjing''s situation. His status was too low, just an outer disciple. How much could he possibly know?

    "Master, it''s difficult."

    Zhang Wanjing hesitated for a moment before saying this, causing Lin Jiang to furrow his brow. Wasn''t Zhang Wanjing a high-ranking steward of the sect, only second to the Nascent Soul Elder?

    "You''re still young and don''t understand. Do you know how many years the Five Elements Sect has been passed down?"

    "The Yun State is the first, with a history of over six thousand years. I studied at the Shanxue School."

    Lin Jiang replied that the Shanxue School teaches the history of the Five Elements Sect, which he learned. The founder of the Five Elements Sect was merely at the beginner stage, but shortly after establishing the sect, he died at the hands of a monster. However, his disciples and descendants gradually expanded the Five Elements Sect, until now, it has be one of the three overlords of the Yun State.

    "Yes, I studied at the Shanxue School, but they won''t teach you about the current Five Elements Sect. It''s very different now. The higher-level members, including the Nascent Soul Elders, are all selfish and only interested in profiting from the sect. Their descendants upy high positions in the sect butck ambition. They are a group of parasites, draining the resources of the entire Five Elements Sect."

    "Ahem, Master, um..."

    Lin Jiang was shocked. Was his master Zhang Wanjing still an angry young person? But could he talk to him about this matter? He couldn''t handle it. After all, he was just a low-ranking member in the Building Foundation Period.

    "What''s there to fear? Even if they dare to do it, are they afraid of being criticized? How many people within the Five Elements Sect are actually doing practical work?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Master, it''s serious."

    "Hmph, serious? If you were in your master''s position, you might realize that what I''m saying is an understatement. The Five Elements Sect hasn''t recruited disciples from the mortal world on arge scale for nearly five hundred years. Now, all the disciples are descendants of sect members. Originally, this was a good thing, but the problem is that the descendants of ordinary disciples are decreasing, while those from prominent families are increasing. Several big families are on the verge of dividing up the Five Elements Sect."

    "The Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect seem to be the same, right?"

    Lin Jiang said that he remembered the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect were the same. The disciples were mainly recruited from within the sect, unless they encountered talented individuals outside, like Cao Ying whom Lin Jiang sent, otherwise they wouldn''t be recruited, or they would be ced outside the sect.

    "Indeed, it is true. Whenever a sect has been passed down for more than a thousand years, there will inevitably be factions and many problems within. My Five Elements Sect is no exception. The Cloud Sword Sect and Zhonghang Sect are the same. But just because everyone is like this, does that make it right?"

    "No, what Master said is..."

    Lin Jiang quickly continued his words, saying that nothing is right and that he is right because he is the Master.

    "I am from the lineage of Ancestor Yu Jin. Do you know who Ancestor Yu Jin is?"

    "Yes, I know. I learned it from Shanxue School. Ancestor Yu Jin is the founding ancestor of my Five Elements Sect."

    Lin Jiang exined that Ancestor Yu Jin is the legendary founder of the Five Elements Sect. The sect thrived under his leadership, and he had two significant aplishments that still influence the sect today.

    The first is that he nurtured the Soul Changing Ancestor, and this lineage continues to this day, ensuring that the Five Elements Sect remains one of the top three powers in Yun State. The second is the development strategy of the Five Elements Sect.

    The Five Elements Sect has the most powerful Spiritual Farmer, with the most advanced system for growing spiritual medicine. It was a strategy devised by Ancestor Yu Jin. Although the Spiritual Farmer is not as rich or dominant as alchemy or sword cultivation, it is the most stable.

    "Since you know, you should also know that the goal of our lineage''s cultivation is not to be immortal, but to serve our sect. We are born for the sect, and in death, we be the sect''s spirits. We are willing to shed everyst drop of blood for the sect."

    "бдбдбдбд"

    Suddenly, Lin Jiang had a sense of impending doom. This was the kind of situation he feared the most. People who would sacrifice everything for a noble belief reminded him of the word "saint."

    "Protecting the enemy''s saint, ying our own saint... but what should we do if our saint is our master? Urgent help needed!"

    Lin Jiang inwardly shouted. He felt that he had been too impulsive in bing a disciple. Could he take it back?

    "You seem unhappy?"

    "No, I was just overwhelmed by my master''s words. It gave me a sudden realization. I now understand that cultivation is not just for the purpose of bing immortal."

    "Of course, bing immortal is a vague prospect. There has never been a case of ascension in Yun State, and it has been thousands of years since anyone in the cultivation world has heard of anyone ascending. Are we practitioners truly living only for that elusive ascension, disregarding the present moment?"

    "Master said that the difficult situation he mentioned is because of this, right?"

    "That''s right, everyone in the Five Elements Sect''s leadership is selfishly pursuing bing a immortal. To achieve this goal, they continuously plunder resources, even disregarding the future of the sect. Because of these things, I argue with many elders every year."

    "Ah."

    Lin Jiang eximed again. You had an argument with Nascent Soul cultivators, and they didn''t draw their sword to attack you?

    "Are you wondering why those people didn''t deal with me, or even kill me?"

    "Ahem, disciple wouldn''t dare."

    There''s nothing to be afraid of. Do you think they haven''t considered it? They are all smart people and know that there are only a few who actually contribute to the sect. If they kill me, who will provide them with resources?

    You know about the Medicine Conference, right? It''s an event that I advocated and organized from start to finish. From the initiation, development, to expansion, inviting various sects, and the decision to offer arge amount of spiritual medicine and elixirs to attract independent cultivators. If I hadn''t done all these things, how could they have such great benefits?

    "So now the elders both love and hate Master?"

    "Almost the same, they need me to collect money for them, but they also want me to stay out of their money collection. It''s very contradictory."

    "Why does the master have to do these difficult and thankless tasks?"

    Lin Jiang couldn''t understand. Since the higher-ups don''t care about the sect anymore, why do you care so much? Just rx, give up, and let everything go to ruin together.

    Now that the higher-ups know you care about the sect, they''re using that to make you work. Once they''ve gained benefits, they''ll kick you out without hesitation. Isn''t that bullying an honest person? If it were Lin Jiang, he would definitely give up.

    "Why? Because this is what my master taught me. It''s about passing down from one generation to the next."

    "Is it my turn now?"

    "That''s right, otherwise why would I take you as my disciple? You have potential. As soon as you knew about the Medicine Conference, you immediately started nning. You earned spirit stones during the Medicine Conference that other outer disciples couldn''t earn in their entire lives. That''s why I hope you use this talent for the benefit of the sect."

    "I work while others enjoy the benefits. Master, disciple can''t do it."

    Lin Jiang revealed his position. He''s not that kind of honest person. He wants to be the one who enjoys the benefits while others work.

    "If everyone wants to eat meat instead of working, where will the meate from?"

    "Find someone who is willing to work."

    "But what if there isn''t any?"

    "I don''t know."

    Lin Jiang said, but what he meant was, if no one is working, why should I? Why should I be the one to do it? Am I so easy to bully?

    "Actually, you can also think this way. Different people in the sect have different roles to y. The elders are not useless, at least they protect the sect. Without their martial strength, all our efforts would be in vain, right?"

    "Yes, but disciple wants to say, I can also protect others. I can be strong."

    Lin Jiang became impatient. He finally understood that Zhang Wanjing was brainwashing him, trying to make Lin Jiang be like him, belittling himself and bing a sacrificial cow for the sect.

    "Xiao Yi, people are different from each other. You have Five Spiritual Roots, which means your growth is slow. You don''t belong in that role."

    "Master, are you saying that I have no choice?"

    "Hmm, meeting me, consider yourself unlucky."

    Zhang Wanjing also came clean. He realized that this little disciple couldn''t be easily fooled. If he reveals his true abilities, it will be unlucky for anyone who encounters him. There''s no point in struggling.

    "When faced with danger, cut down your own ally, just as the brothers taught me."

    Lin Jiang looked at Zhang Wanjing and said, the gaze of a swordsman cannot be hidden.

 Chapter 128

    Chapter 128

    Five Elements Sect, Inner Sect

    Lin Jiang moved out of Zhang Wanjing''s cave. Even though Zhang Wanjing tried to persuade him to stay, he still moved out. During the Foundation Building Period, one has the right to establish their own cave dwelling. This is a benefit not to be missed.

    However, there are no more ces in the Inner Sect of the Five Elements Sect where you can establish a new cave dwelling. All the good spots have been taken by others, unless it''s a garbage ce with extremely weak spiritual veins.

    So, when choosing a cave, we can only choose the caves left by our predecessors. The Five Elements Sect has been passed down for thousands of years, and recing and updating has be a cycle. If there are caves left after the previous generation''s passing, the sect will take them back and leave them for the newly promoted cultivators who are building their foundation.

    But Lin Jiang doesn''t have the opportunity to get a good cave. Lin Jiang casually chooses one of medium quality. The process of moving is very simple. He asks a few outer disciples to clean the cave and do some minor repairs to the building.

    After moving into the cave, Lin Jiang, like other disciples, nts spiritual herbs inside the cave. However, Lin Jiang only nts herbs that mature within 150 years. This is because Lin Jiang cannot guarantee that he will be able to break through to the Golden Core Period within the normal cultivation time. When the timees, he will probably have to flee, and if he''s going to flee, he shouldn''t make it easy for others.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, the spiritual herbs you''re nting in your cave are not very good. Why are they all at the second or third level? Does our Five Elements Sect not have any good seeds for spiritual herbs?"

    Yue Qinges over to visit and sees the spiritual herbs in Lin Jiang''s cave. He shakes his head in disappointment. They are too low-level. The Five Elements Sect relies on spiritual herbs to establish itself, even the seventh level ones.

    The main sect doesn''t restrict the seeds of spiritual herbs, and even sells them at very low prices, practically giving them away for free. This is because ordinary forces and cultivators, even if they spend thousands of years cultivating higher-level spiritual herbs, don''t have the ability to refine them into pills and still have to rely on the main sect. In the end, the main sect still holds the majority of the profits.Unless Pill King Li Ruoxu suddenly appears, the high-grade pills in Yun State are monopolized by the three major sects. But even Pill King Li Ruoxu understands the rules very well and never touches the benefits of the three major sects. Instead, he cooperates with them.

    "I''m not sure if I can break through to the Golden Core Period in my lifetime. Even if I reach the Building Foundation Period, I can only live for two hundred years. Currently, I still have over one hundred and fifty years of lifespan left. nting these herbs is just right. If I can''t break through, I can sell these herbs and spend the remaining time in the Sweet Red Building. Senior Brother Yue, isn''t this wonderful?"

    "Junior Brother Xiao, you have great insight. Senior Brother is not as good as you."

    Yue Qing shook his head, he didn''t think that way. If he couldn''t break through the Golden Core Period on his own, there would still be descendants. He could have more children and choose the most talented ones to cultivate. Once they reached the Building Foundation Period, they could inherit the family business without giving it away to others.

    "Brother Yue is visiting today, is there something you want to tell me?"

    "Haha, Junior Brother Xiao is getting smarter."

    "So let''s be frank, we''ve been sleeping in the same courtyard for three years."

    "Senior Brother wants to know what position Junior Brother is currently holding, and if he can help Senior Brother find something to do."

    Yue Qing said. There are at least hundreds of disciples in the Building Foundation Period of the Five Elements Sect, but I''m not sure of the exact number. It''s a secret of the sect that only the higher-ups know.

    However, whether it''s Medicine City or the institutions within the sect like Chuangong Hall, Law Enforcement Hall, Internal Affairs Hall, and Foreign Affairs Hall, they can''t arrange everyone. There are still many people who don''t have positions and are frencers.

    Frencers have their benefits, they have no restrictions in their actions, but they alsock a source of ie. The treatment given by the sect to those in the Building Foundation Period is 500 spirit stones per year, two bottles of True Spirit Pills, and some spiritual paddy and other things. This is not enough for their cultivation. If they hold a position in the sect, they would receive another sry.

    Of course, sry is secondary. If it''s a position with lucrative benefits, even a small amount would be multiple times their sry.

    "Senior Brother Yue,e, sit, let''s talk."

    "Junior Brother, what''s wrong today?"

    "Just chatting."

    "Alright, Junior Brother, what do you want to ask? I will tell you everything I know."

    "Senior Brother Yue, when we were in Medicine City, you already knew about my master''s situation in the sect, right?"

    Lin Jiang asked. Yue Qing''s uncle and Zhang Wanjing have known each other for a long time. He definitely knows what kind of situation Zhang Wanjing is in now, but he didn''t say anything. He''s just being intentional.

    "Yes, I have known for a long time."

    "Then why didn''t you tell me? I don''t think I have done anything wrong to you, Senior Brother."

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I''m doing this for your own good."

    "Tell me, how can you help me?"

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I''ll be blunt. In our sect, people like you who have no backing or support are only among the ordinary disciples. Although Zhang Martial Uncle is not favored by the elders, he holds real power. By following Zhang Martial Uncle, you may not be extremely wealthy, but you will definitely be better off than being a nobody. Now that you''re in the Building Foundation stage, without Zhang Martial Uncle, you would have had to buy the Building Foundation Pill. Senior Brother has saved you tens of thousands of spirit stones. Isn''t that good enough for you?"

    Yue Qing said seriously. Junior Brother, why don''t you know what''s good for you? If you don''t cling to the leg of Zhang Martial Uncle, how can I find ways to benefit you?

    Lin Jiang looked at him, his scheming mind resurfacing. This guy sure knows how to talk. Clearly, he''s not helping but im it''s for your own good. Impressive.

    "Senior Brother, I want to know the true situation of my Master in the sect."

    Lin Jiang said again. Zhang Wanjing hasn''t assigned him any tasks yet, but ording to Zhang Wanjing, he really wants to cultivate him to be an esteemed member of the Five Elements Sect.

    "As for Zhang Martial Uncle, well, he currently holds the position of Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall. He has a high status and influence, but his responsibilities often change ording to the needs of the sect. He is sent wherever the sect requires him."

    "My Master is like a brick, always needed wherever there''s work to be done."

    "Junior Brother, you summarized it well."

    "What a load of nonsense, my master also wants me to be like him, a brick of the sect."

    "Junior Brother, Senior Brother is speaking the truth, there''s nothing wrong with it. Following Martial Uncle will always keep you busy, and the sect won''t mistreat you."

    Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang''s interest in exploring increased once again. You''re just looking for opportunities, yet you''re advising me to work hard. Is that so?

    "Does Senior Brother Yue think that Junior Brother is someone who is honest, modest, and keeps to himself?"

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath to prepare himself for an encounter with Yue Qing. This guy must have ulterior motives foring here today.

    "No, it''s based on Junior Brother''s skills at the Medicine Conference. Even if Senior Brother tried his best, he couldn''t catch up with him."

    Yue Qing quickly said. He thought Lin Jiang was going to cooperate with him. But he didn''t expect him to have several other projects. If it weren''t for Zhang Shuhua messing up the final airship transport, he would have made even more money. This method of his, he truly admire Lin Jiang.

    "Then why did you push me towards Zhang Wanjing?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Junior Brother, you shouldn''t dwell on this matter. Besides, it didn''t harm you. As long as you don''t behave as rigidly as Martial Uncle Zhang, making some money won''t be difficult, you know?"

    "Can you exin more carefully?"

    "Let me put it this way, my uncle, who is Zhang Wanjing''s right-hand man, is just like Zhang Wanjing - always willing to work hard, but he never misses out on the money he deserves. Zhang Martial Uncle is not the kind of person who doesn''t know how to be flexible. The benefits of the sect are meant to be enjoyed by people, and resources are meant to be used by people. It just depends on who they are given to. As long as the person doing the work doesn''t go too far and understands the boundaries, Zhang Martial Uncle won''t say anything."

    "So basically, as long as we''re not too greedy, my master won''t interfere."

    "Of course, if the benefits are too obvious, things wouldn''t go well within the sect. It''s the same for everyone. If the ones doing the work don''t get any benefits, who would be willing to do it? Zhang Martial Uncle wants capable people. He doesn''t mind if you take the money, but he minds if you take the money and can''t do the work."

    Yue Qing said. The reason Zhang Wanjing can thrive within the sect is because he has a group of capable people under him. They may not have strong backgrounds, but they have good abilities and a strong drive for sess. As long as there is a future, they are willing to work.

    For Zhang Wanjing, it doesn''t matter if these capable people take some money. It''s better than having those freeloaders eating everyone''s share. After all, if the meat rots in the pot, no one would feel upset.

    "If that''s the case, then it''s eptable."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He was most afraid that Zhang Wanjing would be the kind of moral saint who expects perfection from his own people. That would be too miserable.

    "So, little brother, have you finallye to terms with this?"

    "The master bowed down, and he even took the Building Foundation Pill. I can''t understand the use of it."

    "What is the junior apprentice preparing to do? Let me tell you, Martial Uncle Zhang is incredibly powerful. In all areas of the sect, as long as he nods, no one can be excluded."

    "What''s the use of being included? Going in as a soldier, earning just a little something."

    Lin Jiang sneered at Yue Qing. Your perspective is still limited. Do you really think that joining a certain department will make you rich? Believe it or not, after going in, you''ll really be an old workhorse, grazing on grass while others drink milk.

    "That''s true, but the junior apprentice..."

    "I don''t have any ideas for now. Let''s talk about itter."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. He hasn''t decided yet whether he wants to join Zhang Wanjing or not. Zhang Wanjing is an honest person from the Five Elements Sect. Following him, the future is uncertain. It''s a gamble.

    Seeing this, Yue Qing didn''t say much anymore. He just kept emphasizing that if there are benefits, don''t forget him.

    After seeing off Yue Qing, Lin Jiang seriously pondered for a long time and decided to join Zhang Wanjing. Even if the sect disciples are not great, they''re still better than being an independent cultivator. Besides, Zhang Wanjing is a backing.

    But Lin Jiang was not as great as Zhang Wanjing. Yue Qing was right. Everyone in the Five Elements Sect is making money, so why can''t he?

    "Everyone hates scumbags, and everyone wishes they were scumbags themselves. Everyone scolds corrupt officials because they are not the ones being corrupt. If they became officials, they would be even more corrupt. That''s human nature."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He was just an ordinary person, how could he resist the temptation of human nature?

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129

    Five Elements SectгмChuangong Hall

    Lin Jiang sat on a cushion, across from him was a middle-aged man. This man was the Deputy Hall Master of Chuangong Hall and the various halls of the Five Elements Sect were led by Nascent Soul Elders as the Hall Masters. However, they were mostly responsible for the overall situation, and the actual work was done by the Deputy Hall Masters.

    "Disciple Xiao Yi, are you sure you want to practice the Five Spirit Manual?"

    "Report to Martial Uncle, disciple has already decided."

    "Good. Do you know the rules for practicing the Five Spirit Manual?"

    "Know"

    Lin Jiang said, the Five Spirit Manual is one of the techniques used by the Five Elements Sect to protect their mountain. It is a highly confidential practice and after learning it, one must not leave any written records or use their spiritual knowledge to document it. It is forbidden to share this knowledge with anyone outside the sect. If anyone is discovered doing so, the Five Elements Sect will inflict the most severe punishment, even to the extent of harming their family members.

    Moreover, the Five Elements Sect takes various precautions. One of them is to ce a special restriction in the minds of the practitioners. If they encounter any external threat, such as being captured and someone forcibly trying to extract information from them, the restriction will activate and shatter the practitioner''s consciousness, thus safeguarding the secret. However, this will also result in the death of the practitioner.

    "Since you already know, there is no need for me to say more. Take the Heart Demon Oath.""Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang obediently took the Heart Demon Oath. If he ever leaks the secret, he will suffer from a backfire of the Heart Demon, losing his moral integrity and facing a tragic fate.

    "Very well, I will perform the spell. This memory will linger in your mind for one month before automatically dissipating."

    The Deputy Hall Master nodded and then walked behind Lin Jiang to begin the spell. The techniques of the mountain protection were not recorded in writing but passed down orally or through artifacts like jade scrolls.

    However, this oral transmission was not done literally through speaking, but through a form of initiation.

    "With your level of cultivation and Merit Points, I can only pass on to you the beginner''s techniques for the golden core stage. We''ll talk about the advanced techniques after you reach the foundation building stage."

    "Martial Uncle, may I dare ask how I can obtain all the techniques?"

    "Wait until you advance to the Nascent Soul stage. The Five Spirit Manual is a technique that can be cultivated to the level beyond Soul Changing. It is said to lead to the realm of ascension. But even I haven''t obtained all the techniques. When your cultivation reaches that point, someone will naturally pass them on to you."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang expressed his gratitude. He was in awe of the strictness. He had been thinking of obtaining the techniques and leaving, but now it seemed impossible. Unless he could obtain all the techniques from the Five Spirit Manual, it would be meaningless to start over with a new teacher.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Xiao Yi, have you decided what you want to do with me?"

    After receiving the techniques, Lin Jiang found Zhang Wanjing once again. Zhang Wanjing spoke.

    "Master, I am a novice with limited knowledge. It''s not suitable for me to go anywhere else. I am better off following you, listening, observing, and learning more. After acquiring some skills, then we can discuss further."

    Lin Jiang said that he has thought about it carefully. The various branches of the Five Elements Sect must have clear divisions of interests. If he joins, he will only be a low-ranked soldier. He will be exhausted and earn very little money.

    It''s better to follow Zhang Wanjing. Even if it''s just as a small assistant, this way we won''t offend anybody, and there will be plenty of opportunities to make money. How did spectione about? Well, it''s all about the difference in information, and Zhang Wanjing is the best source of information, right?

    Lin Jiang will provide information on Zhang Wanjing''s side, and then work with Yue Qing and others to carry out the tasks. Lin Jiang will benefit from this arrangement.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Follow me?"

    "Does the master think that my abilities are enough to deal with the monsters in the sect? Aren''t you afraid that I will be eaten by them?"

    "Well, that''s true. Okay, you can follow me then."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. Whether it''s one or two, it doesn''t matter. He was originally nning to bring Zhang Shuhua along. He also needs to take care of his own son. Zhang Shuhua has already demonstrated his ability in the outer sect, so now, if Zhang Wanjing brings Zhang Shuhua, no one will say anything.

    "Thank you, master."

    "But you need to think it through. If you follow me, you will be very busy. During the day, you''ll need to be on duty in the sect, and only at night will you be able to cultivate. As a Five Spiritual Roots cultivator, you progress slower than others, so it might hinder your cultivation."

    "The disciple is not afraid. There is not enough time. If I bring the elixir, the master can give a little more elixir."

    Lin Jiang answered. During the Building Foundation Period, you don''t need to sleep much. One hour a day is enough. Use the evening for cultivation. That''s about eight to nine hours of cultivation time each day, it''s enough. Just take a few more elixirs if necessary.

    "Alright, from now on, you and Shuhua wille to the Internal Affairs Hall for duty every day. I am now the Deputy Hall Master of the Internal Affairs Hall. Do you know where it is?"

    "I know."

    "Okay, you can have the day off today. Come back tomorrow."

    "Thank you, master."

    Lin Jiang quickly said a few words and then left.

    The next morning, Lin Jiang followed Zhang Shuhua to the Internal Affairs Hall. The Internal Affairs Hall is the main hall of the Five Elements Sect, with arge number of people, so the office area is also huge. It is aplex of buildings with dozens of offices, all belonging to the Internal Affairs Hall.

    "The Internal Affairs Hall manages all the general affairs of the sect, except for transmission of techniques andw enforcement, which are handled by the two main halls. These courtyards are divided for different matters."

    "Where is the External Affairs Hall?"

    "The External Affairs Hall is equal to the Internal Affairs Hall and is not part of the inner affairs of the sect."

    "Even the External Affairs Hall has its own internal affairs and external affairs. Do we also manage the Internal Affairs Hall of the External sect?"

    "Yes, the Internal Affairs Hall of the External sect is considered a branch of the sect''s Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Understood, what does the External sect usually do, senior brother?"

    "Errands."

    Zhang Shuhua said, they were neers to the Internal Affairs Hall and didn''t understand the business. Besides running errands, what else could they do?

    "Today is your first day on duty, so follow me. Let''s get to know people first."

    "Yes, senior brother."

    "This is the Treasury District. They manage all the expenses of the sect here, including the disciples'' sries and rewards, as well as the supply of materials for the Pill Hall and Talisman Hall..."

    Zhang Shuhua introduced Lin Jiang to the various departments of the Internal Affairs Hall. There are several offices just in the Treasury District alone. It''s a lot of responsibility.

    However, after taking a look, Lin Jiang felt that the responsibilities of the different departments in the Internal Affairs Hall were somewhat confusing. In theory, with a sect of tens of thousands of people, it''s not much different from argepany with various departments.

    But Lin Jiang certainly wouldn''t say anything now. It would be foolish toe on the first day and start making all kinds ofments and writing suggestions. That''s something only inexperienced neers do. But Lin Jiang was not an inexperienced neer.

    After wandering around, Lin Jiang returned to the office of the Deputy Hall Master, also known as the office. The Internal Affairs Hall has a total of three Deputy Hall Masters, who act as checks and bnces for each other.

    However, Lin Jiang hadn''t seen the other two Deputy Hall Masters at all during his first day. Zhang Shuhua told Lin Jiang that he had been here for a year and had only seen the other two Deputy Hall Masters three times. Theypletely leave everything to their stewards, and if there''s anything uncertain, they go to Zhang Wanjing.

    There are no strict limits on the responsibilities of each Deputy Hall Master. This means that Zhang Wanjing can also handle the business of the other two. In fact, Zhang Wanjing is the one who takes care of everything in the Internal Affairs Hall.

    "He''s really a good person."

    After learning about this, Lin Jiang sighed and felt lucky to be working with Zhang Wanjing. He handles everything himself and gets paid for it.

    "I think your words sound like an insult."

    Zhang Shuhua had a grumpy face, even though he was actuallyplimenting someone, it sounded strange and suspicious.

    The first day of work at the Five Elements Sect passed uneventfully.

    Then came the second day, the third day, the fifth day, and the first month.

    During the first three months, Zhang Wanjing didn''t assign Lin Jiang any tasks. He was just running errands like Zhang Shuhua, while Lin Jiang observed how busy Zhang Wanjing was.

    Cultivators in the Golden Core Period don''t need to sleep, but most of them still have the habit of resting or lying down for a while, even if they can''t fall asleep. It''s just a habit.

    However, Lin Jiang never saw him sleeping, and he rarely rested. His way of resting was to meditate and practice cultivation, and then he would attend to his tasks.

    "Even the donkeys in the production team wouldn''t dare to behave like this. Without Zhang Wanjing, the Five Elements Sect, which is so big, won''t be able to function, right?"

    Lin Jiang felt sorry for Zhang Wanjing. He was someone whopletely dedicated himself to the sect and had moved away from petty interests.

    "Don''t even try to persuade my dad, even I, his own son, can''t convince him. Once he sets his mind on something, he stubbornly sticks to it."

    Lin Jiang wanted to persuade Zhang Wanjing, but Zhang Shuhua stopped him. He had tried to persuade him before, but it waspletely ineffective.

    "So, you''re just going to watch your dad being bullied like this?"

    "What can I do? I''m just a beginner in the Building Foundation Period. I can''t win in a fight, and he doesn''t listen to my scolding. My dad seems to enjoy being bullied, what can I do?"

    Zhang Shuhua felt hopeless. He knew very well that his dad was being bullied, and it was all because of him. He didn''t gain much from it, but he had no choice.

    "Let me teach you a way."

    "What good method do you have, junior brother?"

    "Cultivate until the Soul Changing Period, then defeat all the elders of the sect."

    "Ahem, junior brother, you''re really good at joking."

    "This is definitely a good n. Just think, if you can take control of the entire sect and get rid of all the people who use connections, take money without working, engage in corruption, and arezy, and rece them with people who are willing to work, won''t your father be relieved?"

    "Um..."

    Zhang Shuhua''s heart was suddenly filled with excitement. It seemed to make sense that if he became the Soul Changing Ancestor of the sect, he would have the final say. Then his father wouldn''t have to work so hard, right?

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130

    Five Elements SectгмInternal Affairs Hall

    "Get lost! If you have guts, tell Guo Yunfeng to personallye and talk to me. How dare he ask the sect for fifty thousand spirit stones? You can ask if Guo Yunfeng has gone mad. If he hasn''t, tell him to get lost..."

    Zhang Wanjing''s roaring voice echoed from the Deputy Hall Master''s office, and everyone around wanted to block their ears, afraid to listen to Zhang Wanjing''s curses. That Guo Yunfeng he was cursing at was a powerful figure in the Nascent Soul stage of the Five Elements Sect.

    After a while, two disheveled individuals with golden cores stumbled out of Zhang Wanjing''s office. They stomped their feet, cursed a few times, and left directly.

    "Has your father always been this brave? How can someone with only a golden core dare to curse in front of a Nascent Soul cultivator?"

    Lin Jiang asked Zhang Shuhua who was standing nearby, saying that Zhang Wanjing was extremely brave. If he guessed correctly, then Guo Yunfeng''s presence must be enveloped here and Zhang Wanjing heard every word he cursed.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "My father has never been afraid of anything. It''s Elder Guo''s fault. If he wants to celebrate his birthday, he should pay for it himself. Why should he make the sect pay for it?"

    Zhang Shuhua said that he had already gotten used to it. Every Nascent Soul in the sect, they have either been scolded or confronted face to face by his father."Actually, I''m more interested in knowing who your father''s backing is. He has been causing so much trouble but hasn''t been killed by anyone."

    "Why ask so much? My father is alive for a reason."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head, certain that there must be someone backing him, otherwise he would have been killed long ago.

    "You two,e in."

    Soon, Zhang Wanjing''s voice came through and Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua walked in.

    "Shuhua will keep an eye on the treasury. I''ll take responsibility for this matter. If the treasury dares to allocate funds, you bring Law Enforcement Hall over and arrest the people."

    "Dad, is it true that Elder Guo doesn''t have many years left? This is his 900th birthday celebration."

    Zhang Shuhua quickly said. That Elder Guo Yunfeng is the oldest among the many elders of the Five Elements Sect. He''s already 900 years old. ording to the lifespan limit of the Nascent Soul stage, he might not have another big celebration.

    The so-called lifespan limit of a thousand years is just an estimate. It can vary by a few decades, which is normal and within the usual range.

    That''s nonsense! Guo Yunfeng is the most timid. He has consumed many longevity treasures and can live past 1100 without a problem. He just wants to make money. Once the sect organizes a grand celebration for his birthday, there will be a big feast with guests. It''s so embarrassing for a Nascent Soul cultivator to rely on receiving gifts for money.

    This trend shouldn''t be encouraged. Once he sets a precedent, what if other elders also make such demands? If 900 years is considered a celebration, then 800 won''t be, and neither will 500.

    "Yes, Dad. Then I''ll go first."

    Seeing that persuasion was futile, Zhang Shuhua didn''t care anymore and immediately fled.

    "Xiao Yi, how long have you been with me?"

    "Almost three years, Master."

    Lin Jiang said. Time passes so quickly. In the blink of an eye, I have been working as Zhang Wanjing''s secretary and assistant for three years.

    "It has been three years, and I am ready to set you free. Are you confident?"

    "No, Master."

    "What are you afraid of? Haven''t you seen me scold people with Nascent Soul? When you go out on your own, if anyone dares to stop you, justin about them."

    Zhang Wanjing said that he was in desperate need of more staff. It wasn''t that there were no talented individuals, but their talent would quickly be corrupted. The people he promoted wouldn''tst long before they were influenced and corrupted by others, making them unusable.

    After observing Lin Jiang for a long time, he realized that Lin Jiang was more flexible andposed in his actions than his own son. He thought that he should nurture him with great effort.

    "Master,ining won''t help. I can''t handle everything by myself."

    Lin Jiang said, unless he became the head of a department where he could make all decisions, he wouldn''t go. If he went without anyone supporting him, what could he achieve on his own?

    "Sigh, there are people everywhere, but not a single one is usable."

    "Master, please don''t worry too much. The sect cannot be sustained by just one person."

    Lin Jiang tried to persuade andfort Zhang Wanjing again. Zhang Wanjing''s sense of responsibility was too strong, he wanted to take care of everything and make sure it was done well. But as a result, he was almost working himself to death, and things didn''t necessarily turn out better.

    In the past few years, Lin Jiang had actually gathered quite a bit of information about the Five Elements Sect. Well, if we were topare the Five Elements Sect to a mortal empire, then it had already passed the most prosperous stage in its beginning.

    Various problems started to arise, such as factionalism, bloated bureaucracy, and declining efficiency. It might be a bit of an exaggeration topare it to the declining period of a dynasty, but they had definitely lost their momentum for progress.

    In this aspect, the three major sects in Yun State were the same. For many years, none of them had expanded further. The most they did was to maintain their dominant positions and the status quo.

    "If you don''t support it, and I don''t support it, then who will? Someone has to take care of things."

    "Yes, Master is right."

    "You can consider which department suits your talents the best. I can arrange for you to be transferred there. Even if you be a senior steward, it wouldn''t be worse than your current position. You can also form your own team, I trust you."

    "I still want to stay with Master for a few more years."

    Lin Jiang wouldn''t speak, he has been living afortable life these years, why would he go looking for difort?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao, heard that Zhang Martial Uncle scolded Guo Patriarch face to face?"

    "Nonsense, he scolded only his disciples."

    "Well, what''s the difference?"

    "Senior Brother Yue, stop nosing around for gossip, making more money is the right way."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, this matter has caused a bigmotion. Zhang Wanjing, being so disrespectful, the entire Internal Affairs Hall has heard about it. This means that the entire sect knows now.

    Guo Yunfeng is an experienced Nascent Soul cultivator, he has many disciples and grandchildren. Guo Yunfeng doesn''t say much, but those disciples and grandchildren are moring for Zhang Wanjing to face consequences.

    Even Lin Jiang is curious now, who exactly is Zhang Wanjing''s backer? Could it be a never-before-seen Soul Changing Ancestor? Otherwise, how could he survive until now?

    "Junior Brother Xiao said it right, so what good news does Junior Brother have this time?"

    "There''s news from the Outer Affairs Hall that there''s a conflict between the Five Immortals Sect and Qingyang Sect for the spiritual mountain in Ruiyang Mountain area. It''s unstoppable and you can make arrangements."

    Lin Jiang said. Both the Five Immortals Sect and Qingyang Sect are vassals of the Five Elements Sect. Lin Jiang has been to the Five Immortals Sect and has acquaintances there.

    "It seems like the Five Immortals Sect has been growing too fast, and our sect has taken action against them."

    "Don''t say that recklessly."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. Although it''s true, the three major dominant sects are trying their best to maintain their dominant positions. The most important thing is to suppress the growth of other sects, including their own vassals.

    The Five Immortals Sect has not been around for long, but they are very strong. The higher-ups of the Five Elements Sect are already unhappy. So, in this dispute between the two sects, the shadow of the Five Elements Sect is actually there, but such matters cannot be spoken openly.

    Now, Lin Jiang thinks about the territory of the Lin family and suddenly admires Lin Batian. His strategy is very powerful. Anhua City is outside the influence of the Five Elements Sect, and it is even farther from the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect. Otherwise, the Lin family would never have risen and would have been wiped out long ago.

    "I understand, I will make arrangements. When the timees, Junior Brother will definitely receive plenty of spirit stones."

    "Don''t do too much, remember what I said, just earn the money we should earn."

    Lin Jiang reminded again, during these three years, he has made a lot of money, but none of it was obtained through corruption, but by using differences in information.

    For example, in the dispute between the Five Immortals Sect and the Qingyang Sect, which has not yet erupted, Lin Jiang has already received news. He notified Yue Qing and told him to prepare in advance.

    When the fighting starts, the two sects will consume a tremendous amount of war supplies. Even if Yue Qing sells them at market prices, he can earn a lot of money.

    Lin Jiang has done many simr things, such as when the sect iscking something and needs to makerge-scale purchases, he would inform Yue Qing and let him prepare. As for how to build connections and such, it depends on Yue Qing''s own abilities. Lin Jiang only provides information and only takes money in return for providing the information.

    Yue Qing is not the only partner of Lin Jiang. Zheng Yi and others have also coborated before. Everyone has made a lot of money. Now they all know the dangers of information differences and are trying to win over Lin Jiang.

    This is also one of the reasons why Lin Jiang is unwilling to take a position at a certain branch. If he goes to a certain branch, it won''t be easy to gather information. However, with Zhang Wanjing, things are different. All the branches, both inside and outside the sect, have to go through Zhang Wanjing, and as Lin Jiang''s disciple and assistant, he is basically like a secretary. He can ess most of the information. With this advantage, Lin Jiang can earn a lot of money.

    "We have cooperated before, so you can trust me."

    Yue Qing smiled. He felt that forming a partnership with Lin Jiang was the best investment with a high rate of return. Now his development momentum has surpassed even his own uncle. Even his uncle often seeks him out for information.

    "Our future focus will be Medicine City. Remember, Medicine City has great potential."

    Lin Jiang mentioned again how Medicine City''s reputation has surpassed Yunzhong City after the Medicine Conference. With its huge size, the city gathers unlimited wealth. They have nned ahead and when the timees, they will make a tremendous fortune.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I am having difficulty with the situation in Medicine City. We only have the strength of Building Foundation. In Medicine City, there are always eighteen powerful individuals called Golden Core who have their own interests. If we n too ambitiously, we might be overwhelmed. Zhang Wanjing cannot be relied upon in this matter because what we are doing is secretive."

    "Then let''s adjust our goals, don''t aim too high. Making money is a steady process, we shouldn''t expect to earn it all in one day. Our wealth will gradually grow, and our strength should grow with it. If we don''t manage our finances properly, there will be consequences."

    Lin Jiang said that their wealth was growing too quickly, but their strength couldn''t keep up. That''s why Lin Jiang would always remind them to only earn the money they should earn.

    When their cultivation reaches a certain level, they will have abundant wealth, without needing to go through so much trouble. Just like those Nascent Soul Ancestors, they don''t need to use all kinds of strategies and nning.

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131

    Five Elements Sect, Inner Sect

    Like other major sects, Five Elements Sect is under the control of the Presbyterian Church. All the elders are at the Nascent Soul stage and there is no limit to their number. Currently, Five Elements Sect has fifteen Nascent Soul Elders.

    At the end of each year, the elders hold a meeting to summarize their achievements. However, not all elders are required to attend as they have various duties to attend to. Some may be guarding important ces, others may be in seclusion for cultivation, or traveling around the world. For the sect, it is only required to have at least three elders at the entrance gate at all times to ensure the basic safety of the sect.

    This year, there are six members from the Presbyterian Church participating, which worries the Sect Master Qin Quan. It seems like there will be another dispute today.

    "Since no one else ising, let''s get started. Let''s begin with a discussion of this year''s events."

    Qin Quan nced at the time, realizing that no one else wasing. He ordered someone to close the door and began recounting the major events of the year: how many disciples left or died, how many new disciples joined, the number of breakthroughs from the Building Foundation Period to the Golden Core Period, the ie and expenses in terms of spirit stones, all with specific data.

    These contents werepiled by the Internal Affairs Hall, and Qin Quan read them aloud to let the elders understand the overall situation of Five Elements Sect.

    Overall, Five Elements Sect has remained rtively unchanged for many years. The ie and expenses are consistent every year, with some turnover in personnel, but the overall number remains the same. This situation has been maintained for many years.

    "Thest sentence, I won''t say it anymore. You all have heard enough of Zhang Wanjing''s words."When they reached thest sentence, Qin Quan said, because every year Zhang Wanjing''s final sentence in the previous reports is the same, meaning that if the sect''s power doesn''t improve, it will decline. But after so many years, hasn''t the Five Elements Sect declined?

    "Master Brother Guo, I have something to say about this Zhang Wanjing."

    "Senior Brother Guo, what do you want to say?"

    "I want to use him of disrespecting his elders and viting the rules of the sect. ording to our rules, he should be put on a self-reflection period instead of continuing as the Deputy Hall Master of the Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Senior Brother Guo said it well. I also think Zhang Wanjing has gone too far. It''s time to remove him as the Deputy Hall Master. How about recing him with your eldest disciple? My requirements aren''t high. As long as he can reach the same level as Zhang Wanjing, I willpletely demote Zhang Wanjing and punish him with a self-reflection period of one hundred years. What do you think?"

    Qin Quan nced at Guo Yunfeng and said. This Guo Yunfeng is getting more confused as he gets older. Even people eight hundred miles away can hear his little tricks. How dare hee here toin?

    "Ahem, well, Master Brother, the sect has many talented individuals, so it''s possible to rece someone else."

    "Indeed, the sect is full of talented individuals. Senior Brother Guo, who do you think can take on this great responsibility? Or how about you contribute more to the sect, Senior Brother Guo?"

    Qin Quan argued back again. Is Zhang Wanjing the strongest one in the Five Elements Sect? No, there are even stronger ones than him. But Zhang Wanjing is the most devoted and daring to challenge the elders. Even if someone else takes his ce, they may have more abilities, but can they withstand the elders'' constant demands for more money? In just a few years, the entire sect will be drained empty.

    "Senior Master, I was still hoping to break through to Soul Changing. I don''t have time."

    "What about the other senior brothers?"

    "No time."

    "I don''t have time either."

    Several elders answered straightforwardly. Bing a Deputy Hall Master suits their abilities, but they don''t want to spend time on it. Nascent Soul can live for a thousand years, but is a thousand years really that long? They still want to make further progress. They don''t have time for this matter.

    "Since everyone doesn''t have time, let''s just forget about this."

    "Senior Master, are we disregarding the elders'' reputation?"

    "I will give the order to reprimand Zhang Wanjing."

    "Brother, is it possible..."

    "Senior Brother Guo, let it be, on to the next item."

    Qin Quan immediately interrupted Guo Yunfeng and forcefully moved on to the next topic. Guo Yunfeng had no choice but to stay quiet. Even though he couldn''t fully understand the situation, he knew Qin Quan wouldn''t harm Zhang Wanjing.

    The meeting ended, and everyone dispersed. However, Law Enforcement Hall Master Nie Wuyuan stopped Qin Quan and had something to say to him.

    "Brother Nie, if you have something else to say, just say it."

    "Senior Master, actually I wanted to talk about Zhang Wanjing."

    "Did Zhang Wanjing offend Brother Nie?"

    "No, actually over the past few years, I''vee to admire Zhang Wanjing more and more. Senior Master, haven''t you noticed how much support I, as the Law Enforcement Hall, have shown Zhang Wanjing?"

    "What exactly does Brother Nie want to say?"

    "What I want to say is, Zhang Wanjing is right about the Five Elements Sect facing a crisis."

    "Is the Five Elements Sect in crisis?"

    Qin Quan chuckled silently, with dozens of Nascent Soul cultivators, hundreds of Golden Core cultivators, and an unknown number of Soul Changing cultivators, where would the Five Elements Sect''s crisise from?

    "How old is the Sect Leader this year?"

    "Just over seven hundred. What about you?"

    "I''m already 823 this year, Senior Brother Guo is 900. The youngest should be Junior Brother Ye, who is over 600 and a half this year. Hasn''t the Sect Leader noticed any issues?"

    "So what are you suggesting..."

    Qin Quan''s expression became serious. Upon thinking about it, it seemed that it was true. Some of the Nascent Soul cultivators in the Five Elements Sect were getting older.

    It''s been many years since the Five Elements Sect produced any new Nascent Soul cultivators. Moreover, the Nascent Soul seeds cultivated by the sect are not that impressive. Not only do they not match our past glory, but even other disciples are dissatisfied. The senior brothers of Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are aware of the Nascent Soul seeds from our generation, they are formidable.

    Even though the two sects are far away from our Five Elements Sect and there are no immediate worries of hostility, we in the Five Elements Sect also face ack of sessor, which should make us cautious.

    "Please continue, Senior Nie."

    "That''s enough talking. As the head of a sect, since you already know about this matter, you should start nning for it as soon as possible."

    Nie Wuyuan shook his head. It''s pointless to say too much. As long as the Sect Leader knows, it''s up to him from here.

    Qin Quan watched Nie Wuyuan''s departing figure with a furrowed brow. This matter seemed to be quite serious. There are internal problems within the Five Elements Sect. It''s hard to discern below the Nascent Soul stage because as long as their aptitude is passable, they canpensate with resources.

    But it''s different at the Nascent Soul stage. It demands a high overall requirement for cultivators, especially in their mindset. Without an indomitable spirit, advancing to the Nascent Soul stage is extremely difficult.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua sat in the cave of another Deputy Hall Master in the Internal Affairs Hall of the Five Elements Sect''s main gate, waiting for the feast. Today is the wedding day of this Deputy Hall Master''s son, and he sent an invitation to Zhang Wanjing. However, Zhang Wanjing declined with the excuse of being busy, so Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua came instead.

    "Vice Hall Master Jin has gone too far. I havee here on behalf of my father, and yet he arranged for me to sit at the same table as those at the Building Foundation stage."

    Zhang Shuhua angrily said, he felt discriminated against. He was supposed to be arranged at the golden core table, representing his dad. But instead, they arranged him at the Building Foundation table, which downgraded his status.

    "Forget it, even if you sit at the golden core table, you won''t be able to eat much. It''s enough to fill your stomach here."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes, wondering what advantages there were to sitting at the golden core table. In the cultivation world, the seating is divided based on cultivation level, and the food levels are different too. It''s not that the host is being stingy, it''s that the spirit food is filled with spiritual energy, which can be eaten by those at golden core level, but not necessarily by everyone. If someone who overindulges without reservations eats it, it might lead to a deadly explosion.

    "You don''t understand. It''s a matter of face. Even if I only take one bite, I have to go."

    "Hey, hey, hey, don''t worry about it so much. Just focus on eating."

    Lin Jiang couldn''t understand why Zhang Shuhua cared about this. Now he knows why Zhang Wanjing didn''te, it would only cause trouble.

    Zhang Shuhua couldn''t let it go, but Lin Jiang didn''t care. When the food arrived, he kept eating vigorously. They can me Zhang Wanjing for being unreliable, making theme as a formality but not paying their share. It was Lin Jiang who ended up paying, so they might as well eat their fill.

    "Hey, hey, senior brother, did you hear what they were saying?"

    Halfway through eating, Lin Jiang stopped using his chopsticks. His stomach couldn''t hold anymore, and there was too much spiritual energy. He quietly refined the spiritual energy while telling Zhang Shuhua because he found the conversations of the people around them quite interesting.

    "Heard that, this time Vice Hall Master Jin''s son is getting married, and the ones helping at home are all the servants they raised, not asking for help from the sect."

    "Looks like you already knew about this."

    "Do you know why my dad isn''ting? It''s because he can''t stand it, he''s definitely going to ruin the event."

    Zhang Shuhua said. Many of the higher-ups in the Five Elements Sect have fallen and taken a lot of resources from the sect, but they haven''t used them to improve their cultivation. Instead, they use them for their own enjoyment, fancy clothes, delicious food, servants, and concubines, indulging in extreme worldly luxury.

    "Yeah, I can''t bear to watch either. Compared to their family, mine is too poor."

    Lin Jiang admired Vice Hall Master Jin''s residence, it was so splendid. Even the pirs were made of precious third-grade spirit wood. Comparing his residence to this one was likeparing a vige mud house to the Forbidden City.

    Lin Jiang couldn''t stand it any longer, why wasn''t this residence his?

    "If you go to some elder''s residence, you''ll find Vice Hall Master Jin''s residence is also poor."

    "Is it really that exaggerated?"

    "Not even a little bit exaggerated."

    "Oh, look at all those beautiful fairies! Aren''t they disciples of the Five Elements Sect?"

    Lin Jiang stared at the group of elegant women in front of him, and once again cursed Vice Hall Master Jin. Why did he arrange male disciples to serve the food at his table, while the two tables for the golden core disciples were served by the fairies? Even if he couldn''t eat, he could still enjoy the view.

    "They are servant disciples. Many senior members have their own maidservants. They arrange them to work in the caves as servant disciples. If you get on good terms with them and stay overnight, they will send maidservants to apany you."

    "What? Is that true? Can I do it too?"

    Lin Jiang suddenly became excited. So there really are such customs in the cultivation world. He should have known earlier.

    "You, a Building Foundation disciple, are not qualified."

    "Great, I have found the motivation to work hard in my cultivation."

    Lin Jiang clenched his fist. This statement was even more powerful than getting an adrenaline rush. He had to work hard in his cultivation, achieve the Core Formation stage as soon as possible, and then stay overnight in the golden core disciples'' caves in the sect.

    "Can you please show some improvement?"

    This time, Zhang Shuhua couldn''t bear it anymore. Not because of Vice Hall Master Jin, but because of Lin Jiang. Can''t he see that everyone isughing at him?

    "You don''t understand anything."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. If others can do it, why can''t he just say something? It''s not illegal to talk big. Just because others can do it, does it mean he can''t?

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132

    Five Elements Sect, main entrance.

    Zhang Wanjing sat in the cave mansion of the head, Qin Quan, casually sipping his tea. Not long after, Qin Quan hurriedly arrived and smiled. Wanjing, I''m sorry for making you wait. Something came up and dyed me.

    "The head Martial Uncle is always busy. It''s okay for Wanjing to wait a little longer."

    "There''s nothing much to handle, most of the sect matters are taken care of by you. I only have some trivial matters to deal with."

    Qin Quan said, this is something he truly meant. Ever since Zhang Wanjing became Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall, his workload decreased by half. For big events like the Medicine Conference, he hardly worried about it, as Zhang Wanjing handled it perfectly.

    "Why did Master Martial Uncle call Wan Jing this time?"

    "Last year, during the Presbyterian Church, Hall Master Nie Wuyuan from the Law Enforcement Hall told me that he has been supporting you all these years. Is it true?"

    "Yes, it has been about four or five years. The Law Enforcement Hall has been cooperating with the Internal Affairs Hall. Elder Nie is very good."

    "Elder Nie also told me that our Five Elements Sect is currently facing a crisis with ack of talented individuals."Master Martial Uncle, I already reported this matter to you twenty years ago. I have mentioned it countless times in recent years. Take a look at the disciples within our sect. They can barely reach the Qi Refining and Foundation Building stages, let alone the Golden Core stage. Once they reach the Golden Core Period, they be rxed, upying favorable positions and receiving generous treatment. Then, what do they do? Marrying multiple wives, keeping concubines, enjoying the night with singing and dancing. How much time do they have left for cultivation and doing important things?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    It''s not only the older generation in the Golden Core stage who are like this, even the younger ones. Everyone is the same. What should the sect do...

    Zhang Wanjing, as he mentioned this matter, became upset. He believed that the current atmosphere within the Five Elements Sect was very bad, extremely bad.

    Those who wholeheartedly pursue the Dao are stuck at the Foundation Building stage. Theyck money and background, making it impossible for them to have the opportunity to form a Golden Core. On the other hand, those from influential families quickly be corrupted after advancing to the Golden Core stage.

    If they''re old golden core, he actually doesn''t object, because longevity is very elusive, life doesn''t have many years left, enjoyment is also necessary. But even young golden core is the same, giving up a promising future is simply ignorant.

    You should know that the current status of the Five Elements Sect is supported by Nascent Soul and Soul Changing. However, Nascent Soul and Soul Changing will also die, they cannot achieve immortality. If there are no sessors for the Five Elements Sect, when these Nascent Soul and Soul Changing disciples pass away, can the Five Elements Sect still be one of the three major powers in Yun State?

    "Wanjing, don''t get excited. I brought you here today to discuss this matter."

    "Martial Uncle, I lost control."

    "No, I understand your thoughts. I don''t me you. The atmosphere in the sect has not been good these years, all three major sects have this problem."

    "Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are much better, especially Cloud Sword Sect. Their sword cultivation is pure, they only cultivate the sword throughout their lives. The Indestructible Peak of Cloud Sword Sect will never fail, so Cloud Sword Sect won''t fail either. And several elders of Zhonghang Sect have taken in good disciples. Only our Five Elements Sect, have our elders gone out to recruit disciples in these years? They are all descendants of sect disciples. I''m not saying that descendants of sect disciples are not good, but..."

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t know how to describe it for a moment. The aptitude and level of disciples from sect descendants are much better than ordinary people and independent cultivators, but their character is much worse. These people have grown up in cultivating families since they were young, and most of their cultivation resources are provided by their families. They have no idea about the hardships of cultivation, so they are prone to giving up in the face of setbacks. Even if they reach a higher position, they are easily corrupted and don''t understand the rarity of resources, which are hard-won.

    "Wanjing, I brought you here today for this matter. Don''t get agitated."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Wanjing, what do you think about starting a reform in our sect?"

    "Martial Uncle, have you finally supported me in doing this?"

    Zhang Wanjing got even more excited, his eyes shining. He had thought about the reform for a long time, but unfortunately, no one supported him. He couldn''t make it happen at all.

    Over the years, Zhang Wanjing had realized that no matter how well he did things, it was useless. It was only like patching up a broken ship, dying its sinking. The only way to save the ship was to pull it out of the water, expose it to the sunlight, and give it a thorough repair before setting sail again.

    "Well, to be honest, for these past few months, I''ve been observing the sect closely. Even the Nascent Soul stage, let alone the golden core stage, is all upied by the same people. There are hardly any neers. I''m really concerned about it."

    Qin Quan said. Every realm, every tier, should have a constant supply of new people. This is what keeps the sect alive. But in our Five Elements Sect, it has been years since a new golden core great perfection stage disciple appeared. If I didn''t know this, I wouldn''t have made up my mind.

    "If I have Martial Uncle''s support, then I can rest assured. I can go ahead and do it wholeheartedly."

    "Wanjing, my support alone is not enough. There are fifteen elders in the sect, and I''m just one of them. Even though I''ve be the sect leader, my cultivation level is the same as theirs. You have to persuade them, and it would be best to persuade our ancestors too."

    "Our ancestors..."

    "Yes, I can''t contact our ancestors, only you can. Please invite him back so that we can suppress all opposition within the sect."

    Qin Quan said. The Five Elements Sect has Soul Changing, but they never show themselves. Not to mention the disciples below, even I, as the sect leader, haven''t been able to contact them for many years.

    This is not only true for the Five Elements Sect, but also for the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect. The ancestors'' reason is that the spiritual energy in Yun State is too low, making it slow to cultivate and without much future. That''s why they mostly wander around or cultivate in other ces, onlying back asionally. And when they practice Soul Changing, it can be for several decades or even hundreds of years. So, it is normal for the Soul Changing practitioners from the three sects to be absent for many years. This has led many people to believe that the three sects don''t even have any Soul Changing practitioners.

    "Martial Uncle, I also can''t contact our ancestors."

    "How can that be? Aren''t the ancestorsбдбдбд"

    "Martial Uncle, I really can''t contact them. The ancestors did leave a Life Talisman for me, but it can only be used as ast resort when the sect is in a life-or-death crisis."

    "Alright."

    "Martial Uncle, I feel that having your support is enough for me. I will find a way to talk to the other elders. In the end, it is all for the good and strength of our sect..."

    Zhang Wanjing said. Now I am full of confidence. If the sect leader is willing to support me, I think making changes will be a simple matter.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Xiao Yi and Shuhua, pleasee and sit."

    Zhang Wanjing''s cave, Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua took their seats and watched as Zhang Wanjing poured them spiritual wine. Zhang Shuhua quickly grabbed the wine bottle and poured the drinks himself.

    "Master, is there something good that made you so happy?"

    "Can you guess?"

    "Could it be that your wife has given birth to another son for you?"

    "Are you asking for a beating?"

    "Well, it can''t possibly be my senior martial brother getting married. He''s so cold and only speaks a few words a day. There''s no female disciple in our sect who would like him."

    Lin Jiang said, and speaking of Zhang Shuhua, he was definitely a second-generation cultivator. Even someone like Yue Qing had admirers, but Zhang Shuhua didn''t.

    Of course, Lin Jiang knew that the problem was with Zhang Wanjing. He had offended too many people in the sect, so no one wanted to marry their daughters or disciples to his son.

    "I don''t care what women like to do, it only affects my practice."

    "Tsk, if no woman likes your dad, how can she like you?"

    "You..."

    Zhang Shuhua thought he was a good-tempered person, but even he couldn''t resist the urge to fight someone.

    "Shuhua, actually Xiao Yi is right. If you really like a female cultivator, go pursue her. Your dad supports you, but don''t target those female cultivators with deep backgrounds in the sect. They might bring you benefits, but those benefits won''te for free. You''ll have to get them back from me double-fold. When marrying someone, it should be pure and without any ties to interests."

    Zhang Wanjing said to Zhang Shuhua, and Lin Jiang was surprised. He didn''t expect Zhang Wanjing to be a romantic. Wasn''t he always against love before?

    "Dad, talk business, don''t involve me."

    Zhang Shuhua silently drank his alcohol. He was either running errands for Zhang Wanjing all day, or practicing cultivation. Where did he have time to chase after girls? It was not intentional.

    "Hmm, talking about things, a few days ago, Martial Uncle, the sect leader, had a conversation with me. Martial Uncle also noticed that the atmosphere of the Five Elements Sect was not good. He asked me to rectify it and bring about a transformation in the sect, so that the sect can be strong once again."

    "Transformation"

    "Reform?"

    Zhang Shuhua and Lin Jiang were both surprised at the same time.

    "Haha, you guys are surprised, right? I was surprised too. In fact, I talked to Martial Uncle about it a long time ago, but he didn''t agree. But this time, he finally agreed. Now I can really go all out and make a big change."

    "Master, when you talk about rectifying the atmosphere, it''s actually reform, right?"

    "Reform, you can also say that. It means changing the rules of the sect, giving opportunities to the lower-level disciples, so that not all the higher-level disciples are useless."

    "No."

    Lin Jiang blurted out, which made Zhang Wanjing somewhat puzzled. His own disciple was opposing him?

    "Xiao Yi, please exin why it''s not good, isn''t it a good thing?"

    "Is this really a good thing?"

    Lin Jiang immediately said, thinking of three people in his mind, Shang Yang, Wang Anshi, Zhang Juzheng, all of whom he had to study in his history textbook. Putting aside their achievements in reform, did they have a good oue?

    "Why is it not a good thing?"

    Zhang Wanjing asked insistently. Lin Jiang didn''t answer but signaled to Zhang Shuhua to persuade Zhang Wanjing. Brother, if you don''t persuade him soon, your father will die.

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133

    Five Elements Sect, Zhang Wanjing''s Cave

    "Senior brother, why don''t you persuade our father? Do you know what reform means?"

    Lin Jiang felt that he would be driven crazy by this father and son. Why ruin a good life by getting involved in this matter? If he wanted to die, couldn''t he just find a piece of tofu to hit his head?

    "Know"

    "If you know but won''t persuade him, do you expect your father to die? If your father died, would it be good for you to inherit the family property? Your father doesn''t have any property anyway."

    "My junior apprentice and I have been working with my father for several years. Have you ever seen me persuade my father?"

    "Seems like not."

    "Since we know persuasion won''t work, why waste our breath?"

    "But this time your father is ying with fire, you know? People will die. It doesn''t matter how righteous and selfless you usually are, but your father''s actions involve their core interests. They might give your father face, but reforms are different. They''ll change whatever needs to be changed, and take who''s interests? Isn''t it taking the interests of the higher-ups? Do you think if they get their core interests affected, they''ll still be courteous to you? Blocking someone''s financial path is like killing their parents, do you understand?"Lin Jiang almost yelled it out. Reform is not a new term. It essentially means redistributing interests. Some people have taken too much, while others have taken too little. The excess interests should be given to those who have less. That''s reform.

    But do those beneficiaries of vested interests willingly give up their benefits? No one would want to. If they were so selfless, then there would be no need for reform. Every reform has bloodshed and sacrifice. Why should it be our own people''s blood?

    "I know everything Junior Apprentice said."

    "Know why not stop, if persuasion doesn''t work, just throw a tantrum, find your mother, let everyone persuade you. Compared to life, what does face mean?"

    "Face indeed means nothing, but does belief matter?"

    "What?"

    "Belief, or rather, the state of one''s heart. My father decided a long time ago to devote himself to the sect. As his child, how can I bear to ruin his beliefs? Isn''t that the same as death? If it trulyes to that, I will go with my father."

    "You''re crazy, your father is crazy, and you''re crazy too!"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly. He originally thought Zhang Shuhua wasn''t that crazy, but it seems he was mistaken. A madman gives birth to another madman, a little madman.

    "Junior brother, if you don''t want to stay and apany us, then go ahead. My father won''t me you."

    Zhang Shuhua calmly said. He had long discussed Lin Jiang''s personality problems with his father, but Zhang Wanjing didn''t pay attention. Zhang Wanjing believed that he could move people.

    "Then go!"

    Lin Jiang walked away with his legs, but as he walked, scenes of him and Zhang Wanjing kept appearing in his mind. Lin Jiang had to admit that, after living for over two hundred years, besides when he was with the Lin family, Zhang Wanjing had treated him the best.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t mind his background or qualifications, he took him on as a personal disciple. During those years, Zhang Wanjing didn''t put any pressure on Lin Jiang and allowed him to grow freely, even giving him a Building Foundation Pill.

    These years, Lin Jiang followed by Zhang Wanjing''s side, and Zhang Wanjing patiently taught him, treating him no different than Zhang Shuhua. Lin Jiang often spoke without restraint, but Zhang Wanjing didn''t get angry with him.

    "One day as a teacher, a lifetime as a father. Damn, that Lin family father was really easy to deal with. Why isn''t this father as easy to handle?"

    In the end, Lin Jiang didn''t break Zhang Wanjing''s defensive formation at home, but turned around and went back.

    "Master, are you going to sleep?"

    "Come in."

    "What are you still writing?"

    Lin Jiang pushed the door open and saw Zhang Wanjing buried in writing something at the desk.

    "Just some suggestions, why don''t you go ask Zhang Shuhua to persuade me?"

    "Like father, like son. It''s better for me to convince you myself than having the senior brother do it."

    "Haha, sure, I''ll give you a chance to persuade me."

    Zhang Wanjing said, ever since Lin Jiang found out about his ns for reform within the sect, Lin Jiang has been opposing him. He wants to see what his young disciple can say.

    "If I say that reform will cause your death, you would surely say that you''re not afraid of death, right?"

    "Yes, as long as we don''t be immortals, humans are bound to die, Xiao Yi. Living is not just about cultivating, there are many things worth doing."

    "I didn''t realize you had such deep feelings for the sect."

    "That''s because you don''t know about my past."

    "You can speak."

    Okay, I''ll tell you. My background is the same as yours. I lived in a vige with ordinary people. My parents were just ordinary people. Besides farming, they didn''t know anything else. Our vige was big and we had two special people called cultivators. We gave them the best things we had, like food, cloth, and even young girls. Whatever they wanted, we gave to them.

    Later, monsters came and they ran away. Our whole vige became the monsters'' food. But the monsters didn''t eat us all at once. They kept watching us and sometimes they would eat one of us in a day, and other times it would be every two or three days.

    Our parents were willing to be eaten by the monsters in order to protect us. That year, I was ten years old. Eventually, there were only a few dozen children left in the vige, and it was my turn. That''s when my mentor appeared and saved me.

    He brought us to the Five Elements Sect and took care of us for many years. Until it was discovered that I had a Spiritual Root, he became my master and taught me how to read and cultivate.

    Later, my mentor also died in a conflict with an independent cultivator. When he was brought back, he had very little breath left. I asked him why he had to fight so hard, why he couldn''t run away. My mentor said that the sect had raised and cultivated him, so if he ran away, how could he repay the sect?

    Afterwards, I thought that it was the Five Elements Sect that saved me, avenging our whole vige. The Five Elements Sect raised and cultivated me, so I wanted to dedicate my entire life to the sect. That way I would repay the sect, repay my mentor, and repay my fellow vigers.

    "There are many ways to repay kindness, but you chose the dumbest one."

    "Maybe you''re right. But then I think, if everyone in the world bes smart, who will be the dumb one? There has to be someone a little bit dumb, right? Since no one wants to be dumb, then I''ll be the good one."

    "You..."

    Lin Jiang was speechless for a moment. He knew he couldn''t convince Zhang Wanjing no matter what. Zhang Wanjing was a very determined person. If he made up his mind about something, he would stick to it.

    "Master, do you want to be a martyr?"

    "What is a martyr?"

    "You treat dedication to the sect as your belief. Now, you have a chance. You will seize it because you think sacrificing yourself for the sect is the noble path for you. It''s tragic enough."

    "Makes sense, maybe. I''ve been tired all these years. Maybe it''s time to put an end to it."

    Zhang Wanjing fell silent. A martyr sounded impressive. Maybe he would be willing to be one.

    He had been exhausted all these years. He had to deal with many people, resolve the daily conflicts within the sect, and prevent the higher-ups from emptying the sect. Despite doing what he believed was right, not everyone liked him. He was tired.

    If his sacrifice could wake up the sect, then he was willing to make it.

    "But, Master, martyrs are also failures. People won''t thank you, only mock your failure. All your efforts will be meaningless under their interference. Many yearster, when people talk about Zhang Wanjing, they will only recall the absurdity of the master..."

    "Impossible, my Five Elements Sect can''t be like this."

    "Why impossible? You are a loser."

    "I won''t fail."

    "How can you guarantee your sess? Reforms alwayse from the top down. You are only the Deputy Hall Master, there are at least ten people in the sect who are on the same level as you. They can undermine you at any time. The sect also has fifteen elders who can remove you at any time. What do you have to contend with them?"

    "The sect''s Martial Uncle supports me."

    "The sect''s Martial Uncle is only one person. How many loyal followers does he have? How many direct descendants? Can theypete with the other fourteen elders? Moreover, during the reform, can you guarantee the interests of the sect''s Martial Uncle? What about his loyal followers and direct descendants? Aren''t they the ones benefiting now?"

    "Um..."

    "Master, the sect is very old, and when things get old, problems arise. It''s like ordinary people, as they get older, they develop many problems. I don''t oppose your reforms now, but I hope you can do it in the right way. I hope you can win."

    Lin Jiang said, having a crazy master, a crazy senior brother, having one more crazy junior brother doesn''t matter anymore.

    He lived for over two hundred years, always being very careful. He always chose to be safe, but this time, he decided not to. He would go crazy with this crazy father and son, perhaps this would be his Lin Jiang''s youth after thousands of years.

    But Lin Jiang was still rational, even if he decided to go crazy once, it wasn''tpletely crazy. He hoped Zhang Wanjing would win. In his life, having someone like Zhang Wanjing was what made it exciting enough for him, Lin Jiang.

    "Xiao Yi, you know a lot about these things."

    Zhang Wanjing smiled meaningfully at Lin Jiang. These words seemed to be beyond what someone should know.

    "The Library Pavilion of the Five Elements Sect has many books, not necessarily about cultivation, Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. But they are very interesting. No one reads them, but I do. So, I have gained some insights into human nature. If Master trusts me, then I, as a disciple, will be your strategist once and give you advice."

    "Haha, of course I trust you. With your help, I have a little more chance of winning."

    Zhang Wanjing showed a victorious smile. Both of his disciples supported him. This was a good thing, a great thing.

    "Today, the disciple''s mind is in turmoil, and I don''t know how to express many things. So, I will go back first. Tomorrow, no, the day after tomorrow, I wille back to seek advice from Master and strategize for you."

    "Okay, then go back and rest for now."

    "Disciple takes leave."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then left Zhang Wanjing''s room. At the door, he saw Zhang Shuhua, who was not his usual cold self, smiling at him.

    "I hope they don''t plot against me, these father and son."

    Lin Jiang felt a chill down his spine as he looked at Zhang Shuhua''s smile. He couldn''t help but feel like he had fallen into the trap they had set.

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134

    Five Elements Sect, Zhang Wanjing''s cave

    Zhang Wanjing and Zhang Shuhua were holding a small booklet, which contained three short stories: Shang Yang''s Reform, Wang Anshi''s Reform, and Zhang Juzheng''s Reformation.

    Of course, they weren''t the original stories as Lin Jiang had made some modifications, cing them all in the realm of Yun State.

    For example, Shang Yang''s Reform was described as the merging of seven viges, with a man named Shang Yang advising the vige chief.

    Wang Anshi and Zhang Juzheng also went through changes and reforms, just like the background that was modified in some viges, but the intended meaning was not lost.

    "This Shang Yang, Wang Anshi, Zhang Juzheng, they are truly talented individuals. If I can use them to my advantage, it will be very beneficial. Xiao Yi, are they still alive?"

    "They are dead, the people who wrote the travel journals. They were just ordinary people."

    "Are the Qin Vige, Song Vige, and Ming Vige still there? I would like to visit if I have the chance."

    "How would I know? The author didn''t say."Lin Jiang said, he had already tried his best to fill in the logical thinking of the story. If there were still ws that could be found, he would quit.

    "Junior brother, what use is it for my father to read these three stories?"

    "There is a saying, ''Learn from history, know the rise and fall.'' Any reform is essentially the same. If someone has provided us with examples, then we should learn from them and avoid the pitfalls they went through."

    Lin Jiang said, there is a saying that the only lesson humanity learns from history is that it never learns from its lessons. However, Lin Jiang hopes to break this curse because the cultivation world is a ce full of hope.

    "Shuhua, learn from him. Your younger brother is smarter than you."

    "Yes, Dad."

    "Xiao Yi, tell us, what lessons can you learn from these three stories?"

    First, Shang Yang implemented reforms. In his area, there were seven viges, but only Qin Vige seeded while the others failed. This happened because he had the support of those in power. When the leaders firmly support you, you can seed. But if they waver, the oue will be disastrous.

    So, the first lesson is that you don''t need the support of those in power; instead, you need to be the one in power. Relying on the golden core cultivation level of our master to lead this matter is not enough. We must break through to the Nascent Soul stage. Even if we can''t be the sect leader, we will have the strength to confront them directly.

    "Second, Wang Anshi''s reforms had a major w: he didn''t choose the right people. The policies were good, but the execution turned out to be bad. So, the second lesson we learned is that we need apetent team who are loyal to the master and have the ability, rather than just talk big."

    "Third, Zhang Juzheng''s reforms were quite sessful, but as soon as he died, they were immediately undone. We need to learn from this that we have to oust our enemies. When a policyes out, the beneficiaries of those policies must truly be powerful in order to sustain them. Otherwise, if our master dies, all the policies will still be overturned."

    Lin Jiang said. Actually, in the history of Blue Star, there have been many reformers and innovators, but I can''t remember them all. The history lessons only focused on these three. Otherwise, I could continue with further modifications.

    "So, what Xiao Yi means is that in order for me to do this, I must first make a breakthrough?"

    "Yes, it is necessary. For the sake of our n, you must be stronger. Otherwise, your transformation will surely fail."

    "Dad, what my junior brother said makes sense. I am currently at the beginner stage of cultivating. If I were at the advanced stage, I would risk my life to try."

    "What you said makes sense, but do you think reaching the Nascent Soul stage is an easy feat? Can anyone achieve it easily?"

    Zhang Wanjing couldn''t help butugh and cry. The probability of breaking through to the next stage in the cultivation world is roughly one in ten. Out of ten people at the Qi Refining Period, only one can break through to the Building Foundation stage. Out of ten at the Building Foundation stage, only one can break through to the golden core stage. And out of ten at the golden core stage, only one has a chance to break through to the Nascent Soul stage. How could Zhang Wanjing, with his abilities, break through so easily?

    "If our master finds it difficult to break through, then it''s best not to pursue this transformation. It is destined to fail and cost many lives."

    "Let me think about it some more."

    "Dad..."

    "Alright, I said I will consider it. I''m not a fool. If I know it will fail, why would I act recklessly?"

    "Yes, Dad."

    "You go ahead and work, I''ll take a look at these little books."

    Zhang Wanjing said, he was very interested in these three stories. The reforms of these three people can make a weak, corrupt, and ipetent vige be powerful. The Five Elements Sect is still strong now. If he can achieve it, won''t the Five Elements Sect be the number one sect in Yun State?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao, why are you in such a hurry to find me?"

    In Lin Jiang''s cave, Yue Qing came. He came because he received a message from Lin Jiang and it was urgent.

    "Senior Brother Yue, I came to inform you that we should no longer have any business dealings. Don''t give me money for the things you''ve done before, and don''t use my name for any external matters. I won''t acknowledge them anymore."

    "Why, Junior Brother Xiao? If you''re not satisfied with the share, we can discuss it again."

    Yue Qing immediately became anxious. He couldn''t understand why Lin Jiang suddenly wanted to withdraw. Without Lin Jiang''s information, how could he easily earn money? He was still hoping to make more money through Lin Jiang.

    "This has nothing to do with shares. It''s just that I don''t want to do it anymore."

    "Junior Brother Xiao, please don''t tease me. Is it because Senior Brother unintentionally did something to upset you? I apologize to you, okay?"

    "Senior Brother, do you think I am hot-headed?"

    "Junior Brother, there must be a reason, right?"

    "You wille to know this reasonter. Anyway, for now, just follow what I say. Even if you don''t, I won''t acknowledge it in the future."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Once Zhang Wanjing starts making changes, the enemies will surely fight back. Lin Jiang cannot hold Zhang Wanjing back. Everything he and Yue Qing did was half legal and half illegal. It''s like learning a lesson from those reforms.

    "Junior Brother, we have known each other for decades. Don''t you have any trust in me?"

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Yue Qing got angry. Isn''t there any trust between people? What happened that he wasn''t informed about? Why didn''t they tell him?

    "Senior Brother, this matter has nothing to do with you, but it does concern me. If you don''t want to be implicated by me, it''s best for you to cut off contact voluntarily. This applies not only to your side but also to the others. I have already cut off contact with them. The conversation ends here, no need to say more."

    "Junior Brother, I..."

    "Let''s leave it at that for today. If everything passes, I will take the initiative to find Senior Brother."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, bid farewell to the guest, and didn''t want to say anything anymore.

    After seeing off Yue Qing, Lin Jiang calmed down and carefully pondered how to strategize for Zhang Wanjing. The reform in the mortal world must be different from the cultivation world, it could not be simply copied.

    Compared to the mortal world, the biggest problem in the cultivation world lies with those powerful figures. In the mortal world, powerful figures are just ordinary people. One strike and they turn into ghosts. Therefore, the best method is physical transcendence.

    But in the cultivation world, it''s different. Nascent Soul experts can defeat Lin Jiang without any tricks. One strike and he would be a ghost. Moreover, the Five Elements Sect relies on these powerful figures to maintain its reputation. If these figures are defeated, the Five Elements Sect would also be finished.

    "So, the reform in the cultivation world is not just about redistributing benefits. It should be about expanding the cake. Those who deserve should still receive, maybe even more. But at the same time, there should be an opportunity for lower-level cultivators. Only then can it be a sessful and perfect reform."

    Lin Jiang pondered for a long time and thought of this sentence. Perhaps this is the most correct reform, but also the most difficult to achieve. If they could truly expand the cake, the Five Elements Sect wouldn''t be in such a state.

 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135

    Five Elements Sect, Mountain Gate

    Inside the main hall of the sect, nine elders gathered together, apanied by nine powerful cultivators. This was a rare urrence, indicating something important had happened.

    However, Zhang Wanjing was still not satisfied. The Five Elements Sect had fifteen senior cultivators at the Nascent Soul stage, and six of them had received the message but had not shown up.

    "Wanjing, everyone is here now. We can begin."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle, this is Wanjing''s strategy for reviving the sect, which he has been pondering over for the past few days. Please have a look, esteemed elders and Martial Uncle."

    Zhang Wanjing replied, and then nine jade slips flew in front of each person. Everyone opened their respective jade slips to read.

    "Wealth Sect and Strong Sect, six strategies. The first one is to hold an Ascension Gathering, send disciples to travel far and wide, and test the Spiritual Roots of children in mortal viges. Anyone with outstanding potential should be brought into the sect and nurtured..."

    "The second strategy is to reduce redundancies. The sect, its branches, cities, and businesses have numerous personnel, resulting in low efficiency. Arge portion should be downsized and reevaluated. Those with insufficient abilities should be let go..."

    "The third strategy is to consolidate power and responsibility. The Hall Masters, stewards, and attendants at each branch should...""The fourth strategy is to review resource allocation. Any Building Foundation Pills or Foundation Establishment Pills must..."

    "Fifth rule..."

    "Sixth rule..."

    Everyone looked at the six rules on the door, their faces showing excitement. None of the rules pointed at them specifically, but all of them seemed to be addressing them.

    "After reading these rules, does anyone have anything to say?"

    The leader, Qin Quan, looked at the other eight people and said. I am very satisfied. Zhang Wanjing is truly a talented person. In such a short time, he hase up with six measures to reform our organization.

    "I disagree."

    "I also disagree."

    "I also disagree."

    "I feel the same way."

    However, the other elders'' unanimous response made the leader and Zhang Wanjing freeze with shock.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Elders, is there anything that you disagree with? Wan Jing can make changes."

    "We disagree with everything. These six rules are nonsense."

    "Guo Yunfeng, what do you mean?"

    "I mean exactly what I said. This elder believes that the rules you wrote are nonsense and should not be approved. What do you think?"

    "Guo Yunfeng, you old thief! You have four disciples, eight descendants, and 135 n members, all of whom are ipetent and worthless. They are just taking up the sect''s resources. You..."

    "How dare you insult the elders of the sect in front of everyone! Outrageous!"

    Zhang Wanjing was not pleased with Guo Yunfeng, and when he heard Zhang Wanjing''s angry scolding, Guo Yunfeng also became furious. He raised his hand to p Zhang Wanjing, but the people around them quickly held him back.

    "Senior Brother Guo, don''t court death. Zhang Wanjing has the true name symbol of the ancestor on him. If you unleash that palm, it will activate the Life Talisman, and we will all die."

    Nie Wuyuan sent a message to Guo Yunfeng, who then stopped what he was doing and started sweating. If the Life Talisman of the Soul Changing Ancestor is activated, it would be like a full-force attack from the Soul Changing Ancestor. It would be unstoppable.

    But soon, he felt immense jealousy. How could the Soul Changing Ancestor love this child so much to even give him the Life Talisman, while neglecting the elders who had worked hard for the sect? It was so unfair.

    "Everyone, be quiet. ording to our rules, when the Presbyterian Church faces a decision, we vote by raising our hands. So, if you agree with the rules written by Zhang Wanjing, please raise your hand."

    The sect leader Qin Quan stood up and said, then he raised his hand. Nie Wuyuan also raised his hand, but the other seven people didn''t move a muscle.

    "Haha, Zhang Wanjing, see that? The Five Elements Sect is not under yourmand. Out of the nine elders, only two support you. If you have the ability, convince the other six, or bring out the Soul Changing Ancestor. Otherwise, let''s see what you can do."

    "Guo, you old viin, if the Five Elements Sect declines and falls, you should take half of the responsibility."

    "Nonsense, unfounded ims! The Five Elements Sect has fifteen Nascent Soul stage cultivators, dozens of Golden Core stage cultivators, and every year we have dozens of Qi Refining stage breakthroughs to the Foundation Building stage. We have many talented individuals. How can we decline and fall? It''s just a bunch of lies you made up to seize power for yourself."

    "Guo, you old viin, I will fight you."

    Zhang Wanjing was so angry that he coughed up blood. He wanted to fight Guo Yunfeng to the death, but Qin Quan held him back.

    "Wanjing, don''t be unruly. The rules of the sect state that any major decision must be made by the Presbyterian Church. If this decision is not approved, you can try to persuade other elders. If the majority of elders agree, I will authorize you as the head of the sect."

    Qin Quan said, he didn''t know how Zhang Wanjing negotiated with the other elders, but today most of the elders disagreed, which was a practical problem. Even if he was the sect leader, he could not make decisions alone.

    "Martial Uncle..."

    "Let''s leave it at that for today. Everyone can disperse."

    Qin Quan waved his hand, and many elders scattered, leaving only Qin Quan and Zhang Wanjing in the main hall of the sect.

    "Martial Uncle, these are all strategies to strengthen the sect. Why doesn''t anyone agree? Does that mean nobody wants the Five Elements Sect anymore?"

    "Wanjing, those who can be elders are not fools. ording to the six rules you mentioned, if they were to be implemented, they would have to get rid of more than half of their disciples and rtives. It would harm their interests. How can they agree? Would you let your family give up their interests?"

    "Of course."

    "Ahem, Wanjing, not everyone is like you. There are not that many selfless people in the world."

    Qin Quan was a bit speechless. He only had one son who had grown up, but there were many more people to support. Some were concubines with many children. Can they be the same?

    "Martial Uncle, you agreed before."

    "I did agree, but I alone cannot decide. It is the rule of the sect. The Martial Uncle is just one of the elders. If you really want to implement it, either convince the other elders or ask the ancestors for guidance. There is no other way."

    Qin Quan said that the decision of the Presbyterian Church was also for the sake of preventing the sect from being ruled by one family or one person alone. The benefits and drawbacks of that are very clear. If there is a capable leader, then naturally the sect will prosper. But if there is an ipetent person, then it will be the sect''s sorrow.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Outside the main hall of the sect, Lin Jiang hurriedly arrived and saw Zhang Shuhua waiting at the entrance.

    "Where is the master?"

    "Inside, in the main hall."

    "What happened to the master? Didn''t he say to wait until after his child is born to take action? Why is he so anxious?"

    "My father is worried about the sect and wants to implement the n immediately."

    "Being too hasty is a big taboo in making changes. I guarantee that Master''s proposal will be rejected today and it has already alerted the enemy. They will definitely retaliate in the future."

    Lin Jiang said. I have read Zhang Wanjing''s six rules carefully, and they are indeed well-written. However, there is no foundation for implementation. Those who already benefit from the current situation are not foolish enough to let you destroy their interests.

    "My father has always been excluded and suppressed."

    "This time is different. They will take serious action. If they are kind-hearted, they will assign Master to a less important department. If they are ruthless, they will send him on a suicidal mission."

    "They dare not send my father to die."

    "What does that mean?"

    "My father has a powerful supporter, Soul Changing Ancestor, who has a great rtionship with him. Soul Changing Ancestor is my father''s master and also the senior brother of my father''s master. They have a close bond."

    "If you have the support of Soul Changing Ancestor, why not bring him out as your backer?"

    Lin Jiang became even more confused, relying on the backer but not relying, something is wrong.

    "Soul Changing Ancestor is not in the n."

    "Then where did he go?"

    "I don''t know, nobody knows, they are like elusive dragons."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head, people from the Building Foundation and Soul Changing were like two different worlds, he had no idea what Soul Changing looked like.

    "The elder ising out."

    During their conversation, the elders came out, Guo Yunfeng saw the two but just snorted, while the rest chose to ignore them.

    "Where is the master?"

    "I don''t know, let''s wait, maybe he is discussing with the sect leader."

    Zhang Shuhua answered, they are only building the foundation, they have no power, they can only wait.

    After a long time, Zhang Wanjing walked out from the grand hall with a sad face. He had stayed awake for seven days and nights to write a strategy to revive the sect, but others discarded it like worn-out shoes, which made him very upset.

    "Dad"

    "Master, how are you?"

    "The Presbyterian Church didn''t approve."

    "It should be like this."

    "Junior brother, what kind of words are these? What does ''it should be like this'' mean?"

    "The Presbyterian Church didn''t approve. This means they haven''t dealt a heavy blow to the master yet. If they actually approved, that would be disastrous. That''s called praising and killing."

    Lin Jiang said coldly, those sect rules have offended not just a few elders, but also arge number of middle and high-ranking members. It''s almost like cutting off all their sources of wealth. At that time, it won''t be the elders who hold a grudge against Zhang Wanjing, but all the beneficiaries of the sect''s vested interests. That would be the true time of destruction.

    "Go back"

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head and stopped talking. The three of them returned to Zhang Wanjing''s cave.

    "Dad, please don''t give up. We can just ask the elder toe back. He will agree."

    "I know, I won''t give up. Throughout my life, Zhang Wanjing has gone through countless hardships. This is nothing."

    "That''s good, that''s good."

    Master, if you haven''t given up, then listen to your disciple. Transformation is not something that happens overnight, and the Five Elements Sect won''t decline and perish tomorrow. Take it slowly. First, break through the Nascent Soul stage, so that your words carry weight, not only to those above, but also to those below. Only then will the disciples believe in you. Let''s take it step by step, unite and support more disciples. When the timees, everyone will follow your lead.

    The sect is indeed guarded by these Nascent Soul cultivators, but if there are no lower-level disciples collecting resources for them, what do they have to cultivate and live such a luxurious life?

    Lin Jiang once again advised, the main task of the sect''s Nascent Soul cultivators is to protect the sect with their strength. They don''t need to do anything else, and the biggest resource output of the sect is actually to support the Nascent Soul cultivators.

    This is an understandable matter, but the problem lies in the rtives of the Nascent Soul cultivators. They are taking too much. Since that''s the case, it''s time for a power shift.

    Actually, ording to Lin Jiang''s idea, he prefers to ck off. He doesn''t care about this lousy sect. Whoever wants to take charge can take charge. When everything ispletely ruined, then we can clean up the mess and start anew.

 Chapter 136

    Chapter 136

    Five Elements SectгмInternal Affairs Hall

    The Hall Master, who we only see a couple of times a year, appeared. Several Deputy Hall Masters and a group of senior stewards also appeared. The Hall Master publicly announced Zhang Wanjing''s new job assignment, asking him to hand over 90% of his duties and focus solely on managing spiritualnd, specifically the lower-level kind.

    The spiritualnd in Five Elements Sect is very extensive, spanning millions of acres. Nine-tenths of it is lower-level spiritualnd used for cultivating spiritual paddy, lower-level spirit medicine, and other things such as lower-level spirit fruits and spiritual herbs for making lower-level spiritual talismans.

    These are the most basic things for cultivators, even an ordinary steward can be in charge of them. It''s obvious that assigning someone as aplished as Zhang Wanjing, who has reached the pinnacle of the golden core stage, to manage them is intended to suppress him.

    "Deputy Hall Master Zhang, your position as Deputy Hall Master still stands. Your treatment will remain unchanged. This decision was made by the Presbyterian Church and has already received majority approval. Carry it out and don''t make things difficult for me."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    The Hall Master said to Zhang Wanjing. They didn''tpletely strip away his privileges and benefits. His position as Deputy Hall Master was still intact. However, he shouldn''t expect to touch anything else in the future. If Zhang Wanjing doesn''t advance to the Nascent Soul stage, he will spend his whole life farming.

    "I will follow the decision of the Presbyterian Church."

    "Thank you very much Wan Jing, your disciple and son can stay in the Internal Affairs Hall, with no change in position.""I inform the Hall Master, I am willing to follow my master."

    Lin Jiang immediately stood up and said, if he didn''t have Zhang Wanjing supporting him at the Internal Affairs Hall, it would be worthless. The steward has really be a errand boy. He doesn''t want to stay here anymore.

    "Alright, Shu Hua, how about you?"

    "I''ll follow my father too."

    "Okay, it''s settled. Steward it is."

    The Hall Master said, leaving room for future encounters. The Presbyterian Church didn''tpletely eliminate, first, they were afraid that Zhang Wanjing could break through the Nascent Soul stage and have no room to maneuver in the future. Second, they actually have connections and if the Patriarch were to return, it would be easier to exin.

    "Thank you, Hall Master."

    "The matter is settled, I''ll leave first. Vice Hall Master Jin, you take care of the handover."

    "Yes, Hall Master."

    Vice Hall Master Jin, who was standing by, said with a smile. Usually, Zhang Wanjing holds all the power, but now the power is in his hands, and without Zhang Wanjing causing trouble, won''t Internal Affairs Hall bepletely under his control?

    "Senior Brother Zhang, what do you think..."

    "Give me one day to hand over the matters."

    "No problem, you can stay for a few more days."

    "I just want some peace and quiet."

    "Alright, alright, everyone leave and let Deputy Hall Master Zhang have some peace and quiet."

    Vice Hall Master Jin actively shooed everyone away, leaving a quiet environment for Zhang Wanjing.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Your father was greatly affected this time."

    "No, you know my father''s personality, he is persistent."

    "The Five Elements Sect is slowly falling apart."

    "Junior brother, can''t you hope for something good?"

    "You don''t understand."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Zhang Wanjing was the g bearer for getting things done among the higher-ups of the Five Elements Sect. Over the years, Lin Jiang had seen clearly that it was Zhang Wanjing who was pulling the strings in the Internal Affairs Hall, supporting them and doing his best to benefit them. Now that Zhang Wanjing was being suppressed, this group of people would also have to suffer.

    No matter how much they did, how much effort they put in, most of the results would be taken away by others. There was no one to support them anymore. When this group of people grew discouraged, everyone would fall apart.

    However, this kind of thing won''t take effect immediately. It will continue for a long time, maybe three to five years, maybe thirty to fifty years, unless someone like Zhang Wanjing appears again along the way, otherwise everyone will be disappointed sooner orter.

    Perhaps Zhang Wanjing hade to his senses. A dayter, Zhang Wanjing moved out of the Internal Affairs Hall, which was the headquarters of many institutions, with many branches underneath.

    Zhang Wanjing''s new office is in a ce called Cold Crow Mountain. It is said that there used to be a group of cold crows here, which is why it is named that way.

    Cold Crow Mountain is over a hundred miles away from the core area of the mountain gate. It is definitely an unpopr ce, even the office space is worn-out.

    There used to be more than ten stewards stationed in Cold Crow Mountain. Now that Zhang Wanjing, the great god, has arrived, naturally, he will take the best position.

    "Stewards, intermediate stewards, senior stewards, stewards, intermediate stewards, senior stewards, Deputy Hall Master, your dad was demoted six levels all at once!"

    Lin Jiang sighed and said to Zhang Shuhua that there are six levels from stewards to Deputy Hall Master. This is the rank of the management personnel within the Five Elements Sect. Zhang Wanjing was suddenly demoted six levels, and if it were him, he would find it hard to bear.

    "We''re no different. We''re doing steward''s work under the name of stewards."

    "Haha, it doesn''t matter to me. I was originally just an outer disciple."

    "I''m the same, there''s not much difference."

    Zhang Shuhua has a good mindset. He starts from scratch as soon as he enters the door, and if necessary, he can start over again.

    "Stop talking,e inside and work."

    "Yes, Master, what should we do now?"

    "The sect asks us to do whatever they assign, whether it''s farming or reviewing the records. Find the records of the previous years'' lower-level spiritualnd, go through them again, organize the data. See how much spiritualnd the sect has used over the years, how much spiritual paddy, and elixirs. Don''t think you can bezy just because you were sent here."

    "Cough, Master, I just checked. The records alone filled three rooms, all in the form of jade slips. Some of the slips have already disintegrated, so the contents are gone."

    Lin Jiang immediately felt overwhelmed. Three rooms filled with jade slips? It would take forever to go through all of them.

    "Some will take time to go through. I''ll look at them with you. Stop talking."

    Zhang Wanjing gave Lin Jiang a stern look, then went to find the original steward and instructed him to take the three of them to the data storage room and bring back piles of jade slips.

    Cultivators can quickly nce through jade slips. With a sweep of their spiritual awareness, the information is stored in their minds. But organizing the data is a difficult task. it requires careful examination, extracting and recording the information. It''s definitely a huge undertaking.

    Zhang Wanjing called together the five stewards of Cold Crow Mountain. The eight of them worked tirelessly for a month to organize the data from the previous hundred years of the Five Elements Sect. Anything older than that was impossible to gather since those jade slips weren''t properly preserved, the engraved spiritual awareness was scattered, and the contents were mostly unreadable.

    "Master, the data is ready. Would you like to take a look? Do you want me to interpret it for you?"

    Lin Jiangbined the data provided by others and used some modern statistical methods from mathematics to create some charts. It took him three days to do this.

    "I don''t understand what you''re saying. Where did you learn that?"

    "I figured it out myself. Let me exin it to you. This here represents the annual nting area, which is measured in acres. And here is the quantity of offerings to the sect..."

    Lin Jiang exined each chart one by one. Looking at the charts, it can be seen that over the past hundred years, the production of spiritual paddy and low-level spiritual medicine in the Five Elements Sect has not increased. It has even fluctuated quite a bit. However, the total amount remains about the same because the sect requires a certain amount to be nted and offered. Most people are able toplete the task. As for how much is left afterpleting the task, that''s hard to say. It''s not recorded in the data.

    "Xiao Yi, you''ve been farming on Qingyang Mountain for twenty years. Tell me, are the tasks given by the sect difficult?"

    "Yes, they''re very difficult."

    "Really?"

    "Yes, Master. You can ask any disciple who farms and they will tell you. With a cultivator''s ability, one person can farm up to two hundred acres at most. This already takes up the majority of a cultivator''s time. Based on the fertilizers and tools provided by the sect, the yield per acre is around five hundred pounds. After fulfilling the sect''s task of three hundred pounds per acre, each acre only yields two hundred pounds of spiritual paddy. With two hundred acres, that''s a total of forty thousand pounds of spiritual paddy. ording to the current market price, it''s less than two hundred spirit stones. And this is not the final ie because when nting the seedlings, one person can''t handle it all and has to spend money to hire help. In the end, only about one hundred thirty-four spirit stones are received."

    Lin Jiang said that spiritual paddy can only be grown once a year. If cultivators don''t rely on immortal cultivation techniques, they can only earn a little over one hundred spirit stones in a whole year, which is already very cheap.

    "If it''s only a little over one hundred, then how did you manage to cultivate over a thousand mu in a year before?"

    "I hired people, and I basically didn''t make much money. I relied on drawing symbols to earn resources."

    Lin Jiang was embarrassed to admit that he waszy when farming, and he cultivated several hundred mu more than what he rented, which meant he didn''t have to pay taxes.

    "So, it means that growing spiritual paddy barely makes any money, and it''s only those disciples without a background or technical skills who grow it?"

    "It''s more or less the case."

    "What about low-level elixirs?"

    "I''m not very sure about that. Growing elixirs is much more difficult than growing spiritual paddy. The requirements are much higher. If it''s an individual growing them, cultivating twenty mu is the limit. Anything more than that is not possible to handle and take care of."

    "I understand now. Cultivating is not easy, not just for independent cultivators."

    Zhang Wanjing said, among the disciples of the sect, there are few who enjoy a good life, but most disciples are still struggling to make ends meet. They waste a lot of time trying to earn resources and their cultivation cannot match others.

    "Xiao Yi, what do you think if I ask the sect to reduce the amount of spiritual paddy we have to contribute?"

    "Master, I''m afraid it won''t work. These spiritual paddy need to be provided for tens of thousands of people in the sect to eat. The sect won''t agree. Besides, this is also a way for the sect to select talents."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Providing food and being self-sufficient is a small matter. The main purpose is talent selection. In this difficult situation, whoever can break through will be the talent the sect needs.

    "So, in your opinion, how can we make achievements in this matter?"

    "If it''s just spiritual paddy, it''s actually not difficult."

    "Oh, how so?"

    "I''ll introduce someone to you tomorrow, and you will know."

    Lin Jiang thought of Zheng Yi. They have a technical team. If they can promote their technology, it won''t be a big problem to increase the yield of spiritual paddy. Moreover, the area ofnd per person for cultivation will also increase significantly.

    Giving regr farmers aplete set of tools and techniques will allow them to easily cultivate more than just two hundred acres, even reaching thousands of acres.

 Chapter 137

    Chapter 137

    Entrance of the Five Elements Sect and Cold Crow Mountain

    "Martial Uncle Xiao, sorry for beingte, sorry for beingte."

    Zheng Yi saw Lin Jiang from afar, with a smile on his face. He was very enthusiastic towards Lin Jiang. If it weren''t for Lin Jiang, he would still be working on the farm.

    "Senior Brother Zheng, it''s been a while since west met, huh?"

    Lin Jiang also warmly greeted Zheng Yi. Zheng Yi had previously made a fortune with him and was not content to stop cultivating. He even bought Building Foundation Pills, but unfortunately, he didn''t make a breakthrough and now appeared much older.

    ording to the rules of the Five Elements Sect, those in the Qi Refining Period above sixty years old would be expelled from the sect and no longer considered disciples. They would lose the benefits provided by the sect. Most people would choose to leave the sect and live in a cultivation town or a mortal vige.

    However, there are still a few who choose not to leave, and Zheng Yi is one of them. He is still active at the outer sect, but without the support of the sect, he faces a lot of pressure in life. Now, he relies entirely on his two sons.

    "Da Hu, Er Hu, call martial uncle!"

    "Martial Uncle Xiao."Zheng Yi''s two men by his side said that they were Zheng Yi''s sons and now also outer disciples. To secure their positions, Zheng Yi invested all his remaining wealth to establish connections.

    "Da Hu, Er Hu, Senior Brother Zheng, my master sent me to find you. He has some questions and wants you to bepletely honest, without any concealment."

    "Martial Uncle Zhangг┐"

    "Yes."

    "Martial Uncle Xiao, can you tell me what it''s about?"

    "Good news, your son has taken over your position, right?"

    "Yes, our other brothers have also retired. It''s all about our children seeding us."

    "That''s right, my master knows. He intends to do something on the spiritualnd to benefit us, the disciples from outside. Just tell the truth."

    Lin Jiang reminded him. He knew Zhang Wanjing''s personality very well. Even if he was demoted, he wouldn''t get angry or give up. He would work hard and contribute to the sect. He had already made up his mind to achieve something in the spiritualnd.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang led them into Cold Crow Mountain and came in front of Zhang Wanjing. Zhang Wanjing was a humble person. He served Lin Jiang some spiritual tea and then asked about farming matters.

    Zheng Yi was more professional in this field. He had been cultivating for decades. They had worked on every small andrge piece of spiritualnd in the Five Elements Sect.

    When Zhang Wanjing asked about the farming difficulties in the Five Elements Sect, Zheng Yi had a millionints. He could talk about it for three days and nights and still not finish.

    "Martial Uncle Zhang, there are too many farming problems. Let me exin. The first one is about water facilities. Evenmon people know about digging ditches and building canals, storing water during rain and releasing water when there''s too much. But the sect says that cultivators can control the weather, which is true. When there''s no water, we can use Rain Talismans. But what if there''s heavy rain? Do we have so many magical tools to absorb water? We can only activate formations to resist the floods, which consumes a lot of energy. But the rain won''t disappear. Those who can''t activate formations will suffer."

    "And the farming tools, the sect still distributes the same hoes from hundreds of years ago. Most of the plowing oxen are old and weak. In total, the sect only has a hundred of them. The sect has millions of mu of cultivatednd..."

    "And the fertilizer. ording to the old rules, the spiritual beast manure needs to be piled up for more than half a year. But now..."

    "And, the spiritual paddy seeds. We''re still using the ones from hundreds of years ago, and also..."

    Zheng Yi sprayed the Five Elements Sect spiritual paddy from seed to harvest. Lin Jiang realized that he wasn''t qualified as a sprayer. Looking at others, they had much stronger fighting power than him.

    Zhang Wanjing furrowed his brow, almost twisting it into a knot. He didn''t expect the basic spiritual paddy to have so many problems. And the sect hadn''t responded to him yet. Otherwise, he would have certainly made improvements earlier.

    "Martial Uncle, it''s not our business. We''ve all reported it and got scolded."

    The several disciples on the side quickly distanced themselves, saying that they just arrived recently. It has nothing to do with them.

    "What did they scold about?"

    "They said we were meddling in others'' business. Isn''t the spiritual paddy paid every year? Why bother causing trouble?"

    "A group of useless people."

    Zhang Wanjing clenched his teeth and said, in his opinion, these things weren''t difficult. Just spend a little money, it wouldn''t take much effort to aplish many things. He just didn''t want to do it.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    After one day, Zhang Wanjing and his group appeared in the fields of the Five Elements Sect. Zhang Wanjing had lots of work experience and was not easily influenced. He wanted to personally inspect the site before making any decisions.

    "Martial Uncle, look at this ditch and the ces where people are farming. They fix it themselves, but they don''t care about the ces where no one is farming. It has been blocked for a long time."

    "Martial Uncle, look at this fertilizer. It''s clear that it hasn''t been given enough time. If we just spread it like this, it might even burn the spiritual paddy."

    "Martial Uncle, look over here..."

    Zheng Yi and his son also came along, showing Zhang Wanjing each question to prove that they were not lying and that every question was true.

    "Xiao Yi, Shuhua, you two go to the Internal Affairs Hall and request funds from Vice Hall Master Jin. I will go to the Spiritual Herb Garden to have a look around."

    Zhang Wanjing then said that repairing water facilities and updating farming tools required funds, so they needed to submit a request. He, on the other hand, had to go to the Spiritual Herb Garden to talk to the advanced Spiritual Farmers and ask them to cultivate new spiritual paddy seeds.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua followed orders and returned to the Internal Affairs Hall. They waited for a whole day but didn''t even get to see Vice Hall Master Jin. He didn''t show up for work at all. When they asked other stewards, they were told they had no authority to handle the matter and went home empty-handed.

    This continued for several days, and when Zhang Wanjing found out, he became very angry. He personally went to Vice Hall Master Jin''s residence and confronted him. Although Zhang Wanjing blocked him off, Vice Hall Master Jin shrugged and told Zhang Wanjing they had no money.

    Zhang Wanjing got angry and wanted to hit someone. Vice Hall Master Jin immediately escaped and ran back to his residence. Then he hurriedly called the people from the Law Enforcement Hall to persuade Zhang Wanjing to leave.

    "When people leave, the tea goes cold, sigh."

    Zhang Wanjing sighed. How long has it been since he left the Internal Affairs Hall? He knew whether they had money or not, but they were intentionally ignoring him.

    Zhang Wanjing had no choice but to gather his courage and went to see the Sect Master. He managed to get some money, but it still wasn''t enough. He had to discuss with his disciples and son.

    "We can order them to improve the fertilizer issue. It''s within our authority, no need to discuss. As for the water facilities and tools, leave it to me, I''ll take care of it."

    Lin Jiang directly took charge of the matter. He knew how to achieve big results with little money, and he thought it was a good idea.

    "Xiao Yi, I''m not joking about this. I really want to help these disciples and our sect."

    "Master, I''m not joking either. Just trust me, Master. Sort out the issue with the spiritualnd seeds first."

    "I''ve already sorted it out. The steward of the Spiritual Herb Garden has agreed to give us new spiritual seeds next year, with higher yield and less vulnerability to pests."

    Zhang Wanjing said, his old face still has some use, the matter has been resolved.

    "That''s fine, Master, you go ahead and busy yourself. Senior brother and I will go and prepare."

    Lin Jiangughed and pulled Zhang Shuhua away.

    "Junior brother, are you really confident? I looked at the money allocated by the sect, not even a hundred thousand spirit stones. This amount of money is not enough to even repair a water channel. Do you know how valuable spiritualnd is?"

    "I know the data better than you, senior brother. I ask you, seeing your father being humiliated, are you not angry?"

    "I now cultivate for fourteen hours every day."

    Zhang Shuhua said calmly, if he didn''t have to work during the day, he could cultivate for twenty-four hours. He has been holding in his anger for a long time, he just doesn''t express it well, but he will use his actions to show itter.

    "Alright, let''s work hard together, brothers, and let Master take charge."

    "Easier said than done."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "We need to take things step by step. It''s not about our master gaining power right away. We need to store food, build high walls, and slowly establish his authority."

    "No."

    "Uh, well, if not, then forget it. Just remember what I said earlier. First, urge your father to cultivate well and achieve Nascent Soul stage as soon as possible. We''ll help him build influence, gather connections, and form a reliable team, gradually expanding our power."

    "What does that have to do with now?"

    "Of course it matters! Our master has done so much, but how many people are standing up for him now? Why is that? It''s because our master hasn''t gained fame for his good deeds. He doesn''t know how to promote himself. So now, it''s up to us to promote him, spread the word. We need to make sure all the lower-level disciples of the Five Elements Sect know that by following our master, they can have a good life and advance in their cultivation."

    "Didn''t you understand?"

    "Never mind. Just do as I say. Tomorrow, go to the area with many outer disciple workers and recruit people. Ask Da HuEr Hu to apany you. Thepensation is one meal a day, ten hours of work, and one spirit stone. In addition, there will be lectures from Building Foundation Period Martial Uncles on cultivating techniques and teachings on talisman making from a second-tier Talisman Maker. We only need three hundred people, no more, no less."

    "I can handle the lectures on cultivating techniques, but I don''t know about talisman making."

    "If you don''t know, I do."

    "Junior Brother, when did you learn the second level talisman technique?"

    "If you train at night, can''t I learn to draw symbols at night? Don''t worry, I won''t make any mistakes."

    "Will this attract people?"

    "Don''t worry, it will definitely attract people."

    Lin Jiang made a promise that outer disciples could attend sses at Chuangong Hall as many times as they wanted, but they had topete for seats. The seats in the ssroom were fixed, while menial disciples could only attend one ss per month and often struggled to find a seat. Just the lecture by a Martial Uncle during the Building Foundation Period was already enticing enough.

    Lin Jiang couldn''t be idle either. He had to mobilize the outer disciples, stimte their enthusiasm for farming, and work together. Otherwise, what good would those spirit stones do?

    If the sect doesn''t provide assistance, then they have to rely on themselves. This is called mutual help and support. If they want to advance, they have to form alliances. They have to endure for a few years until these people who have received Zhang Wanjing''s grace grow up, and then Zhang Wanjing will have a solid team.

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138

    Five Elements SectгмCold Crow Mountain

    Hello, everyone. My name is Xiao Yi. Many of you may already know me, but for those who are new, let me introduce myself.

    My name is Xiao Yi and I am fifty years old. I started with the Building Foundation stage and have the Five Spiritual Roots talent. Just like you, I was once an outer disciple with no important family background in the sect. I had no one to rely on, so I spent twenty years farming on Qingyang Mountain.

    Lin Jiang spoke loudly to the hundreds of farming disciples and before he finished his words, there was amotion below. The mention of Five Spiritual Roots and farming disciples gave them something inmon. But howe Lin Jiang was already at the Building Foundation Period while they were not?

    "Quiet down, listen to me. I am an outer disciple who started as a farming disciple, so I understand how difficult it is for all of you. Every year, we work hard to cultivate some spiritual paddy, but almost eighty percent of it goes towards sect tasks. We only end up with a few spirit stones. After three or five years, our cultivation level doesn''t improve at all, right?"

    "Yes, Martial Uncle, I haven''t improved my cultivation for five years now."

    "I can''t afford to buy elixirs. I rely on the sect for a few."

    "If I buy elixirs, I won''t have money for anything else, let alone getting married."

    As soon as Lin Jiang finished speaking, someone echoed his words. Lin Jiang silently approved of Zheng Yi who stood beside him. These few followers were obedient and understanding.With more and more people nodding in agreement, they became interested in Lin Jiang. They empathized because they were also poor. They worked over fifteen hours a day to cultivate a small plot ofnd. Almost eighty percent of the spiritual paddy they harvested went towards sect tasks. How many spirit stones were left?

    They wanted to buy medicine, swords, talismans, and even get married and start a family with these spirit stones. But it''s not enough.

    "I know that all of you, my fellow disciples, are poor and struggling. That''s why after I entered the inner sect, I specifically fought for benefits for everyone. I convinced my master, Martial Uncle Zhang Wanjing Zhang, and negotiated with the sect to obtain a sum of spirit stones to help all of you escape poverty and be prosperous. Now, please wee Martial Uncle Zhang Wanjing Zhang to speak."

    Lin Jiang''s voice suddenly became louder, drowning out their voices, then Zhang Wanjing stepped forward in front of everyone.

    "Fellow disciples, I am Zhang Wanjing, with a perfected cultivation in the Golden Core stage. I was not aware that the outer sect disciples were leading such difficult lives until my disciple Xiao Yi enlightened me. Therefore, I came to the outer sect to understand.

    After investigating, I learned about your hardships. So, I specifically negotiated with the sect to obtain 300,000 spirit stones for you. However, this money will not be given directly to you. If you receive the spirit stones and spend them, they will be gone, which is unfair to the disciples who enterter.

    Therefore, this money is meant to help you earn more. I want you to harvest more spiritual paddy every year and sell more to earn more money. How can we achieve that? Naturally, we need to start from the seeds, tools, and..."

    Zhang Wanjing gave a speech to the crowd, speaking directly in front of everyone. He was not pretending; he had done this many times before.

    "Martial Uncle Xiao, wasn''t it supposed to be 100,000 spirit stones? How did it be 300,000 now?"

    "My master paid for it himself."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Last night, he discussed the details with Zhang Wanjing, including the words Zhang Wanjing said now, which were all written by Lin Jiang. But Zhang Wanjing knew that he refused Lin Jiang''s way of tricking people into giving them money and chose to pay himself.

    "This is Martial Uncle Zugaoyi."

    Zhang Yi was also shocked. He only knew that the higher-ups in the sect asked for money from the sect, and he had never seen someone paying money by themselves for the sect''s work.

    "Now do you understand why I did something foolish?"

    Lin Jiang said, with his personality, if he had met someone else, would he have put in this effort? He would have run away already, or at least he would have acted crazy. Isn''t it better to make money by drawing talismans by himself?

    But Zhang Wanjing really conquered him. Lin Jiang couldn''t resist his charismatic personality, so he could only be foolish with him.

    "Martial Uncle Xiao, you can use any of these ten or so people around me, don''t talk about money. Talking about money means looking down on me."

    Zheng Yi, moved by this, gritted his teeth and decided to go all in. If the big shots can give their all for the sect, why can''t Zheng Yi?

    "Let''s see first."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Today''s n was carefully designed by him, using all his limited knowledge and skills. He wanted to impress and move them by disying his abilities and taking advantage of the admiration cultivators have for the strong.

    Lin Jiang felt confident. As long as no one interfered, this n would surely seed. To put it bluntly, those who are willing to work on the outer gates are honest and reliable people. Those who are clever and resourceful have already found other opportunities.

    "Therefore, in the future, we will construct water facilities between each magd. I don''t need you to contribute money, but I hope you can help. If we identally damage a bit of the magd during the construction process, please understand. The water channels will pass through your magd, and you can loosen the array if necessary..."

    "Brothers, I am Zheng Da Hu. I also cultivate eight hundred acres ofnd at San Yang Hill. Allow me to say a few words. Martial Uncle Zhang, as a respected Deputy Hall Master of the sect, is willing to work for our benefit. This shows that he values us. Think about it, when has a Golden Core Martial Uncle ever held us in such high regard? The inner disciples, not to mention the Foundation Building Period, even a Qi Refining Period cultivator looks down on us. Therefore, I, Zheng Da Hu, fully support Martial Uncle Zhang. I may not have much else, but I still have some spiritual rice paddies left. So, I am willing to contribute fifty thousand catties of spiritual rice to support Martial Uncle Zhang. Consider it a small gesture from me, Zheng Da Hu."

    "Brothers, I am Jiang Yuan. I cultivate in the southern part of Qing Xi. Zheng Da Hu raised valid points. Once we have a well-constructed water channel and drainage system, along with properly made tools, we can cultivate more spiritual rice and earn more money. I also support Martial Uncle Zhang, and I am willing to donate fifty thousand catties of spiritual rice."

    "Brothers, I am..."

    After Zhang Wanjing finished speaking, a few supporters called by Lin Jiang began to speak, igniting the atmospherepletely. Their words were unnecessary, as numerous disciples had already pledged their spiritual rice.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t want spirit stones; he didn''t want those who pledged spirit stones. However, he did want spiritual rice.

    Lin Jiang quickly asked the steward of Cold Crow Mountain to bring paper and a pen, to have them sign their names. Words alone were unreliable; with written proof, they wouldn''t dare to go back on their words. Additionally, he nned to create a tablet and ce it in various locations tomemorate and praise these individuals.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    After seven more days, the construction of the water project began after intense preparations. They now had only seven months until they could start farming again next year, and they had to get everything roughly finished within those seven months.

    "These threekes, ording to what Xiao Yi said, will be turned into reservoirs with dams built. They will collect water during rainy days and release water during droughts. They will also be connected to water channels. If there is a flood, it can be directly discharged into the Yuntuo River."

    "Master, there''s really no need for such a high standard. Our sect won''t have major floods."

    Lin Jiang stared at the blueprint and said. These standards were set by him. Now he thinks they''re too high. The cultivation world is different from the mortal world. If it rains for more than ten days in the mortal world, it would be a huge flood disaster. But that''s not possible in the cultivation world. We can simply ask the Nascent Soul Elder to disperse the clouds. That''s the ability the cultivation world should have.

    "No, if we''re going to do it, we need to do it well. I can''t guarantee that there will be someone like me in the future, so we need to build a project that canst for hundreds of years."

    Zhang Wanjing tly refused. He was bing more and more disillusioned with the sect. He only believed in himself now and was determined to do things perfectly.

    "Alright, Master, you have the final say. Senior Brother, have all the misceneous disciples arrived?"

    "Yes, they have. There are three hundred of them, and they''re all here."

    "How is the response from the junior disciples over there?"

    "So-so."

    "No problem, in a while they wille rushing over. From today onwards, the senior brother and I will work overtime at night. The senior brother will exin cultivation issues to them, and I will teach them about drawing symbols. Each person will have two hours."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang said. After implementing this for some time, there will definitely be people who make progress. We will make them examples and promote it widely. I''m not afraid that those people won''te.

    "Count me in on this, I''ll give them a sermon too."

    "Master, you should let it go. Even the junior disciples need rest, you can''t deprive them of their time to sleep and cultivate."

    "Then let''s reduce their working hours. Ten hours a day is too long, let''s decide on eight hours."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head and refused. How can people cultivate when they have to do ten hours of physically demanding work? Why is your heart so ck?

    Lin Jiang sighed bitterly. Alright, you''re the master. If you say let it go, then fine, it''s settled.

    To do a good job, one must first prepare the tools. Zhang Wanjing found a cksmith and made a batch of tools. Soon, they began their work. The engineers in the cultivation world are called builders and they also hired a technical advisor.

    Zhang Wanjing personally supervised the work, while Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua were in charge of logistics. They solved the problem of meals for the workers. In order to do this, Lin Jiang brought the whole set of boxed meal factory.

    "From now on, our nightly lessons will be arranged like this. After work in the evening, everyone will have dinner and rest for an hour, and then we wille to Cold Crow Mountain. No, we will go to where you live to save you from traveling back and forth. First, I will exin the cultivation techniques to you. I will exin them book by book. I will inform you one day in advance about what will be taught. If you haven''t practiced a certain technique, then go to my junior brother and let him teach you how to draw symbols. The lesson will be two hours long. After that, my master will give you a sermon and adopt a question and answer format. Prepare your questions in advance..."

    On the first evening, Zhang Shuhua was the first to give a sermon to three hundred disciple workers. Everyone listened attentively. Because the wages provided by Lin Jiang were very low, physicalbor work would not be paid this much. But they all came, seeking knowledge and hoping to cultivate immortality.

    Starting from the second day, Lin Jiang went to where they lived to give lectures. Many people who didn''t work for them also came to attend the sses. Lin Jiang and the others didn''t mind. As for Zhang Wanjing, he took out his own private flying boat to pick them up.

    It was Zhang Wanjing''s sincere approach that touched many people. There was no need for Lin Jiang to promote it. More and more disciple workers volunteered, including many outer disciples, especially those hundreds of farmers. As long as they had time, they came to help without even discussing wages.

    "Trying to scheme and manipte others, it turns out I''m the clown."

    Lin Jiang was moved by this scene. He had been trying to manipte others throughout this matter, but he realized that there was no need for maniption. As long as you treat others with sincerity, in terms of perspective, he was far inferior to Zhang Wanjing.

 Chapter 139

    Chapter 139

    Five Elements Sect, Outer Sect

    Almost a thousand disciples stood on top of a dam, cheering and dancing with joy. Lin Jiang stood on a distant hill, looking at the towering dam that was almost a hundred meters high, feeling amazed.

    This dam is almost a hundred meters tall and several tens of meters thick. Even in Blue Star''s modern civilization, it should be considered arge project. But a group of cultivators managed to build it in less than a year.

    "But considering the power of cultivators, it can be understood."

    Lin Jiang then thought about it. Cultivators may not have various modern tools, but they have various methods. Without surveying tools, they can use their divine senses. Without bulldozers or cranes, they can use their cultivation power. Even the most ordinary female cultivator, with her spiritual power, can easily lift objects hundreds of kilograms heavy.

    The mountain is solid and cannot be moved. A flying sword from someone in the Golden Core Period is tested, and with one strike, a whole hill is shattered.

    "Junior Brother, in these past few months, I have felt a lot. Though the lower-level disciples may not have the same level of cultivation as us, they still possess great power. Utilizing this power well can lead to extraordinary achievements."

    Zhang Shuhua stood beside Lin Jiang and said. In these past few months, he, just like Lin Jiang, hadbored together with these lower-level cultivators, gaining a deeper understanding of them. He deeply admired these people.

    "Arge part of the wealth of the Five Elements Sect is produced by them."Lin Jiang quietly said, they might not be able to produce high-end resources, but the basic resources of the Five Elements Sect are not produced by them, and experts often start from the bottom.

    "Yes, we''ll see the results this year. If we have a great harvest, we can expand this model to other ces."

    Zhang Shuhua said that they still don''t know if this model is feasible or how effective it is. If it works well, they will implement it in other ces, such as with low-level spiritual medicine.

    Lin Jiang strongly agreed with this. He wanted to build prestige for Zhang Wanjing, to create absolute prestige among the lower-level disciples. This prestige may not be useful in the short term, but over time, it might be. There will definitely be someone among these lower-level disciples who will stand out.

    There is no need for these people to reach the level of the sect''s higher-ups, just the middle level. That way, when Zhang Wanjing needs something done, he''ll have a team and people to execute it. In a sense, it can bypass those higher-ups directly.

    "Ahem"

    Just as the two were talking, they suddenly heard a cough behind them. They immediately turned around and saw an old man standing in front of them.

    "Disciple Zhang Shuhua greets the sect master ancestor."

    "Disciple Xiao Yi greets the sect master ancestor."

    Lin Jiang saw Zhang Shuhua and immediately bowed. He didn''t recognize the sect leader, so no one came out.

    "No need for excessive formalities, just wanted toe and see."

    "Yes, sect leader."

    "You all built this dam."

    "My master led all of us to build it, took us eight months."

    Lin Jiang quickly replied, feeling the need to highlight Zhang Wanjing.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Wan Jing, hey..."

    "Our n is not yetplete. We have only finished one dam. The other dam is only halfway built. We n to build a total of threerge reservoirs, over ten small ones, and even irrigation channels and ditches stretching thousands of miles. Oncepleted, it is expected to increase the yield of the Five Elements Sect''s spiritual paddy by over 30%, with a total value of no less than 500,000 spirit stones per year. The funds for maintenance will only require a small amount."

    Without waiting for the sect leader to feel amazed, Lin Jiang immediately spoke. All the top leaders of the Five Elements Sect are here. We can''t wait any longer to report on our work.

    "Are there so many?"

    The headmaster was also a little surprised. He remembered only giving Zhang Wanjing a hundred thousand spirit stones. Can it create so much profit, or is it avable every year?

    "Yes, disciples can guarantee it."

    "What''s the use of your guarantee? I want results."

    "Then let''s wait and see after a few months when the spiritual paddy has been nted. We''ll know when we harvest."

    "Haha, you said it."

    "It''s what the disciple said. If we can''t do it, the headmaster can punish the master and disciple."

    Lin Jiang immediately said. If there''s a punishment, Zhang Wanjing should be included too. Nobody should escape.

    "Alright, I will personallye to seeter. Do you have any difficulties now? I can ask the various halls to help."

    "As long as they don''t cause trouble, they also help."

    Zhang Shuhua got angry as soon as he heard it. They had asked other halls for help in the past few months, but not only did they not help, they also caused trouble.

    "Ahem, Head Master, don''t listen to him. Each hall is indeed supportive, but the disciples hope for a greater level of support, such as providing more people and more money..."

    Lin Jiang red at Zhang Shuhua. He didn''t understand. Why would he go andin at a time like this? He should take advantage of the situation and ask for benefits.

    To be honest, they were really short of people, not just physicalborers, but also professionals like a tool refiner. They needed various tools to be crafted, but they had very few dedicated tool refiners for their service. It was too troublesome to constantly have to go back and forth.

    "I may not be able to provide spirit stones, but I can allocate 200,000 Merit Points to the sect and give them to Zhang Wanjing. When the timees, he can use them to assign tasks to get whatever kind of people or things they need from the sect."

    "Thank you, Head Master."

    "Hmm, you may continue."

    The Head Master nodded, then turned around and walked away, disappearing from their sight in a few steps.

    "See, learning how to interact with people, different people have different ways, isn''t this beneficial?"

    Lin Jiang said to Zhang Shuhua, after spending these months with thousands of disciples, he became less cold-hearted, but it''s still not enough.

    This statement from Lin Jiang made Zhang Shuhua feel overwhelmed, are there so many rules here?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "The first phase goal is already halfpleted, once the other dams are built, it will be considered finished. Then the irrigation ditches will be simple."

    Zhang Wanjing brought Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua to see the newly built dam in the evening, he was very satisfied and had great confidence in the uing ns.

    "Master, how is the promotion of farming tools going?"

    Lin Jiang said, the dams and irrigation ditches will consume most of their funds, and there is very little money left. Even with the special approval of two hundred thousand Merit Points from the sect leader, it''s still not enough.

    "It''s difficult to promote the wooden kites and farming carts. Ordinary disciples only cultivate one or two hundred mu ofnd, and most of them are transitional. They haven''t considered farming for a lifetime, and they are unwilling to spend money to buy these tools. Even if they buy them, it would be wasteful."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. As a disciple at the bottom of the sect, no one wanted to be a farmer for their entire life. Even if they had no skills, they still wanted to improve themselves. If they couldn''t refine pills, they would draw symbols. If they couldn''t draw symbols, they would refine tools. If all else failed, they would learn formation techniques. Even being a true Spiritual Farmer nting spiritual herbs would be better than farming.

    Lin Jiang had realized this oue. The disciples of the Five Elements Sect rented low-level spiritualnd, so they couldn''t grow much. Isn''t this just like a small-scale farming economy? And one of the characteristics of a small-scale farming economy is ack of funds.

    It''s actually not difficult to solve the issue of spiritual paddy seeds. If we switch to new seeds this year and have a good harvest, it will attract people to buy them next year. The premise is that the price should not be too expensive or we can directly promote them through the sect.

    And as for these farming tools, I have a solution. As long as the master is willing to put in the effort...

    "Tell me your solution."

    "We can invest to create a batch of tools and then hire people to use them to cultivate the fields and apply fertilizers for the disciples. But our goal is not to make profits, so we can set the prices very low. As long as there is even a small profit, it''s fine."

    "But won''t that take away the livelihood of the Zheng family? You''re stealing their job, aren''t you?"

    "No, we will use the Zheng family''s people in the first batch. Although the profit margin will be thin, with more customers, we can still earn a bit. We canpensate them in various ways from other sources. Besides, if it really takes away their livelihoods, then we''ll need to make adjustments."

    Lin Jiang said. Don''t me him for being ruthless and taking away people''s livelihoods. It''s because he has to strategize for Zhang Wanjing to gain reputation through various means.

    "Just do as you say."

    Zhang Wanjing thought about it, this was the only way to solve the problem, he couldn''t find any other solutions for now.

    "Master, may I ask when will you break through to Nascent Soul?"

    "I don''t know."

    "Does the sect have any treasures for Foundation Establishment?"

    "Yes, but it''s not my turn yet."

    Zhang Wanjing said, he had offended so many Nascent Soul Elders, how could he possibly obtain such treasure.

    "Can we buy it outside?"

    "What do you think?"

    "Probably not possible, right?"

    Lin Jiang hesitated a bit. He knew that the sect had always monopolized strategic pill recipes, like the Building Foundation Pill and the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill. While they sometimes released a few Building Foundation Pills to give independent cultivators some benefits, they would never release Nascent Soul cultivation pills. No sect would risk having too many Nascent Soul cultivators. Other sects were the same. They had an unspoken agreement, like a gang of five that monopolized certain techniques.

    "Even if some treasures appeared on the market, they would definitely end up in the hands of a few major sects. The smaller sects won''t have a chance."

    Zhang Wanjing said. When ites to financial resources and foundation, how can independent cultivatorspare to these major sects? Even the smaller sects can''t.

    "So, we can only look for opportunities in the Wilderness?"

    "Pretty much."

    "Then the disciple really can''t do anything."

    Lin Jiang said. If we could buy it, I could contribute some money. But if we can''t buy it, I can''t go to the Wilderness either. It''s too dangerous, I won''t do it.

    "I''ll handle this matter myself. I don''t need your help with the Nascent Soul cultivation."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. He thought highly of himself. How could someone at the Building Foundation stage dare to interfere with the matter of refining babies?

 Chapter 140

    Chapter 140

    The Five Elements Sect, Outer Sect.

    Hundreds of apprentice disciples were holding various tools to dig trenches and canals. This process is actually not difficult. No matter howplex the terrain is, they can handle it. Even some hard rocky mountains cannot resist their attacks, and if things get tough, there''s always Zhang Wanjing.

    The most troublesome are Lin Jiang and the others, because they are in charge ofmunication and negotiation. Trenches and canals take up some of the spiritualnd. How can it be done without discussing it with thendowner?

    As for the farming disciples in the Outer Sect, it''s easier. With Zhang Wanjing''s Golden Core cultivation, once he asserts his identity, few people would refuse. The trouble lies with the sect. There are people causing troubles, saying this can''t be done and that can''t be done, seriously affecting the progress of the project.

    Every time, it''s Lin Jiang and the others who have to negotiate. It starts off with begging and pleading, and eventually it leads to arguments. Lin Jiang has a good temper, but Zhang Wanjing can''t be controlled. He would resort to fighting. With his cultivation level, anyone below the Deputy Hall Master rank is no match for him.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    But because of this, Zhang Wanjing has received numerous disciplinary measures from the Law Enforcement Hall. They don''t dare to do much to him, except deduct his sry. Zhang Wanjing''s sry for the next thirty years is gone.

    "Master, losing my sry is not a big deal. I can support you in the future, disciple will take care of you."

    Lin Jiang confidently said to Zhang Wanjing, showing his support for him."Can you afford to take care of me?"

    "Probably."

    This question seemed tock confidence.

    "Is that so? Let me calcte then. The cultivation pill for the Golden Core Period is called the Yuanye Pill, and it costs three thousand spirit stones per pill. I probably use twenty-four pills in a year. But there''s also an auxiliary pill called the Jingyuan Pill, which costs two thousand five hundred per pill. I would need forty-eight pills in a year, and..."

    "Master, I was just joking."

    Lin Jiang quickly said. Never mind, forget it. I take it back, alright?

    "Kid, let Master teach you something today. Don''t go around saying you can support anyone. You can''t afford to support anyone. Do you think feeding someone and keeping them from starving is enough?"

    "Master is right. I have learned my lesson, but I have something to attend to, so I''ll be going now."

    Lin Jiang had a lucky escape, and Zhang Wanjing''s words sounded familiar, like an inte meme.

    The man said. I will support you," and the woman presented a list including clothes, shoes, makeup, skincare products, rent, and food expenses. After calcting the total, she spread her hands and asked. Can you afford to support me?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The water project had some difficulties, but it was mostlypleted. There were only some minor issues left. At the same time, Lin Jiang''s idea of promoting farming tools was also put into action. With Zhang Wanjing''s investment, Zheng Yi''s team was able to update their tools, increasing their quantity tenfold. Zhang Wanjing recruited apprentices to operate the tools and offered low-cost farming and fertilizing services for other apprentices.

    Overall, Zheng Yi and his team''s ie decreased, so Lin Jiang provided them with additional support. Instead of giving them spirit stones, he offered other things like better guidance and some secret techniques.

    Lin Jiang saw this as something natural. Even in modern society, agriculture receives government subsidies, and developed countries do the same.

    However, many people didn''t understand and thought they were foolish.

    Instead of exining, Lin Jiang told Zhang Wanjing that if he gained power in the future, this subsidy should be paid by the sect.

    As time passed, it was time for another year''s harvest of spiritual paddy. Zhang Wanjing, Lin Jiang, and others randomly arrived at a piece of spiritualnd. There was a cultivation version of a harvester working, using spirit stones as its energy source and magical arrays on its circuit board instead of regr wiring. It was developed by more than ten craftsmen following Lin Jiang''s ideas, with only three units in total.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, your design is amazing. This will definitely be a big business in the future."

    Some of the alchemists were also there, and one of them noticed a business opportunity. He was very enthusiastic about Lin Jiang and could foresee that this thing could be marketed. The entire Yun State is so big, with many sects and families, all growing spiritual paddy. The business will be huge.

    "Senior Brother, I''ll give you this design for free. Let''s not charge for these harvesters."

    "Ah, Senior Brother, that''s not possible. I..."

    "Then I''ll sell the design tomorrow. I''m sure many people would want to buy it."

    "Senior Brother, please let me buy your design. Is that okay?"

    The alchemist''s face changed dramatically. This thing is not difficult to refine, as long as there is a blueprint. Even an ordinary second-level alchemist can make it.

    "That''s about right. Senior Brother, don''t worry. We belong to the same sect as brothers. I definitely won''t leak it privately. But if someone manages to decode it, it won''t be my responsibility anymore."

    "Of course, Senior Brother. Let''s keep in touch more in the future."

    The craftsman nodded his head. In the cultivation world, there is no such thing as patents or copyrights. In the future, someone will definitely figure it out, but as long as he takes advantage of the opportunity, making arge profit won''t be difficult.

    "Okay, okay."

    Lin Jiang casually said, his gaze focused on the harvested spiritual paddies.

    The harvested spiritual paddies were sent to a drying formation. In less than an hour, the moisture would bepletely dried.

    "Seven hundred and twenty-one pounds, too high, too high. Last year I was only four hundred and eighty pounds, haha."

    "Brother, it''s an output of seven hundred and twenty-one pounds per mu of spiritual paddies, not your personal weight, otherwise you''d be a big fat pig, haha."

    After weighing the spiritual paddies, a few farming disciples burst intoughter.

    "Let''s go, to the next ce."

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t stay, quickly moving to another location.

    There is no harvester here, but there are people who can harvest like a humanoid. Many disciples control the sickle with their spiritual awareness and harvest the spiritual paddy with a swishing sound. They are not slower than a harvester, but they can''tst long. They have to stop after a while and ultimately resort to manualbor.

    "The previous harvester had great potential and could be poprized in the entire Yun State, even in the entire cultivation world. Xiao Yi, you will go down in history."

    "Master, I signed your full name."

    "You..."

    "Master, as a disciple in the Building Foundation Period, what do I need a reputation for?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Even if Xiao Yi was his name, it would be a waste to write it.

    "Master owes you too much."

    "Then let me repay a little. Master, help me find some seniors who practice the Five Spirit Manual. Those folks in Chuangong Hall are all inferior goods."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. The Five Spirit Manual was the sect''s top cultivation technique, but the Library Pavilion not onlycked cultivation techniques, but also insights. The only option was to seek guidance from Chuangong Hall or exchange Merit Points for lessons.

    Someone wanted to deal with Zhang Wanjing, and Lin Jiang got caught up in it too. After several attempts, the people from Chuangong Hall were overwhelmed. Lin Jiang didn''t get any answers to his questions, which made him so angry that he wanted to fight, even though he couldn''t win.

    "Don''t worry, from now on I''ll find a golden core, no, Nascent Soul to teach you."

    "Why don''t you find Soul Changing instead?"

    Lin Jiang refused to believe Zhang Wanjing''s big talk. The task was too difficult and he couldn''t handle it.

    The master and his two apprentices went to seven or eight different ces the whole day. These ces were all nted with new spiritual paddy seeds, along with adequate fertilizer and well-established irrigation systems. The average yield per acre reached nearly 700 pounds, while before, it was less than 500 pounds. (Don''t bring modern concepts into the world of cultivation.)

    "Martial Uncle Zhengong is renowned through the ages, and Zheng Yi represents the vast number of outer disciples. Zheng Yi thanks Martial Uncle Zhengong."

    When Zheng Yi heard this data, he almost cried and immediately kneeled down to Zhang Wanjing.

    He also came from a farming background and understood how hard it was for the farmers. With the increase in average yield per acre of over 20%, this amount of money would not be valued by the inner disciples, but for them, it was crucial.

    Zhang Wanjing waved his hand and a burst of spiritual power lifted Zheng Yi up. He said. Why do you thank me? I didn''t move a single rock, dig a single shovel for the water ditch, or apply fertilizer for you. Wasn''t it all done by yourselves?

    "Martial Uncle"

    "Every grain of food is the result of your hard work, and you deserve it."

    "Martial Uncle"

    Zheng Yi was deeply moved, so much so that he couldn''t speak for a while.

    "Master, there are a lot of people outside Cold Crow Mountain."

    "Who are they?"

    "Outer disciples."

    "Go and have a look."

    At this moment, Zhang Shuhua came and informed everyone that there were a lot of people outside. Everyone went out to see.

    Arge group of disciples came to the gate, and when they saw Zhang Wanjing, they all kneeled down and shouted. Thank you, Martial Uncle!

    "Don''t kneel, please stand up."

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t have enough spiritual power to support so many people, so he had to shout loudly.

    "Martial Uncle, please let us kneel. We have been disciples for 23 years, working on the fields for 15 years. The sect has never paid attention to us, treating us like mere tenant farmers. Only Martial Uncle sees us as human beings."

    "Martial Uncle, we all know that the sect doesn''t actually allocate that much money. It''s you who have personally paid hundreds of thousands of spirit stones. Only you see us as human beings."

    "Martial Uncle..."

    Each disciple expressed their thoughts. They were a marginalized group within the Five Elements Sect. They were called outer disciples, but they had no connections, average intelligence, emotional intelligence, and aptitude. They led very difficult lives.

    The most important thing was that they had never been valued by anyone before. Zhang Wanjing was the first one, the first high-ranking member of the sect who considered them. They were deeply moved.

    More people wereing from afar, and the entrance of Cold Crow Mountain couldn''t amodate them anymore. Lin Jiang stood behind Zhang Wanjing, deeply moved as well.

    Their hard work paid off, as the new magical rice nts yielded nearly 700 kilograms per acre. Even those who didn''t use the new seeds saw an increase in their harvest, ranging from a few tens of kilograms. But next year, they can definitely promote the new magical rice seeds, as long as the sect doesn''t increase their tasks. They will greatly increase their ie and surely someone will stand out. Their hard work for over a year and the many spirit stones they invested will not go to waste.

    "Master, I have something to tell you."

    Just when Zhang Wanjing felt a bit lost, Lin Jiang whispered.

    "What''s the matter?"

    "I made a promise to the sect leader that this year, the yield of magical rice per acre will increase by 30%. If I don''t achieve it, you''ll be punished."

    "What?"

    "Come on, Master, don''t hit me. If I don''t make the promise, how can I earn 200,000 merit points?"

    As soon as Zhang Wanjing heard this, he was about to lose control and hit Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang quickly ran away, thinking that his master couldn''t be trusted. He could report the abuse, right?

 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141

    The Five Elements Sect, Outer Sect

    The news of a bountiful spiritual harvest spread throughout the entire Outer Sect. For disciples with high ie, this extra earnings didn''t mean much. They could easily earn more. But for many poor disciples, it was a big deal. With this ie, they could buy more spiritual pills, purchase more spiritual weapons, and even have a few more meals of good food if needed.

    What''s even more important is that it ignited their hopes for cultivating immortality. They felt that the higher-ups valued them. They were no longer the poor farmers of the cultivation world, but disciples of the sect.

    Inside Cold Crow Mountain, Lin Jiang and the others were not idle. The matter of the spiritual harvest was notpletely finished yet. Many details needed improvement, such as the varying heights of the spiritualnd and the need for better water facilities. These were the tasks they would be working on next.

    "Father, there''s someone at the door seeking an audience."

    "Are they here to deliver spiritual harvest again? Tell them not to bother. We can''t finish what we have, even if we eat all day."

    Zhang Wanjing replied. The disciples who worked in the fields showed their gratitude by giving them spiritual harvest. But now that the major project was finished, they couldn''t possibly eat it all. Zhang Wanjing politely declined, but people still kept delivering it. They believed it was the best way to express their gratitude.

    "No, it''s the disciples who cultivate medicinal herbs. They say you''re being unfair, only focusing on farming and neglecting them. They want to talk to you, father."

    "Oh, this is getting interesting, let peoplee in."Zhang Wanjing put down what he was doing, finally someone took the initiative toe to him. He wanted to see how proactive these people were.

    "Disciple Zhang Liang, greet Martial Uncle Zhang."

    After a while, a middle-aged man walked in front of everyone and bowed.

    "Please rise, I am Zhang from the Zhang family. What brings you here?"

    "Martial Uncle Zhang, Zhang Liang has been entrusted by many senior brothers toe and seek your help. We hope Martial Uncle Zhang can assist us too."

    "Isn''t the construction of water facilities also helping you?"

    Zhang Wanjing said. The spiritual paddy and basic spiritual medicines of the Five Elements Sect have not been well nned and are mixed together. It''s possible that next door is growing spiritual paddy, while here we are growing some kind of medicinal nts. The construction of water facilities actually includes all of them, benefiting everyone together.

    "Martial Uncle Zhang, spiritual medicines and spiritual paddy arepletely different. The impact of water facilities on us is minimal."

    "Zhang Liang, Martial Uncle, I''m not a fairy. Just because you make a wish, it doesn''t mean I can fulfill it. I can''t solve all your problems."

    Zhang Wanjing said that he really doesn''t have the ability to help everyone.

    "Martial Uncle, disciple dares not make excessive demands. I''m just asking you to have pity on us. Outsiders don''t know the inside story."

    "What is the inside story?"

    "There''s too much. Disciples who nt spiritual paddy may not earn much spirit stone, but they won''t lose much either. But we''re different. We invest too much in growing medicinal herbs. Some herbs take two to three years to mature, and just when they''re about to mature, a disease or pest attack can wipe out all our ie, and there''s also..."

    Zhang Liang immediately started to plead, exining all the difficulties in growing medicinal herbs, such as high investment and high risks, etc.

    Lin Jiang listened nearby. His level of being a spiritual farmer was quite good. He had specifically hired someone to learn when he was at the Lin family, and he had studied diligently while operating the mountains.

    Actually, Zhang Liang wasn''t lying. The problems he mentioned were all real, but he exaggerated them. The medicinal herbs they grow are the lowest-level ones, of the first-tier inferior quality. The technical content is really not high. It''s the second-tier, third-tier, fourth-tier, and fifth-tier ones that are trulyplex, and Lin Jiang doesn''t dare touch them now.

    Previously, he had fourth-tier medicinal herbs in his cave at the Yunzhong Mountain Range. That was because someone had been growing them for many years, and the most difficult times had already passed. Plus, there were examples to learn from. He just followed the established steps. If Lin Jiang were to start from scratch, he would definitely mess it up.

    "Xiao Yi, is what he said true?"

    Zhang Wanjing whispered to Lin Jiang. He has never nted spirit medicine before, so he doesn''t understand much about it.

    "I also don''t understand, never nted before."

    Lin Jiang responded directly. He has been exaggerating too much. He could have made excuses for previous things, but not this. If he hasn''t nted it, he hasn''t nted it. He can''t just make things up.

    "Zhang Liang, I''ve heard what you said. In a few days, I will visit the ce where the spirit medicine is grown and then get back to you."

    "Martial Uncle, I..."

    "What? You dare to threaten Martial Uncle?"

    Lin Jiang spoke up at this moment, expressing his dislike for this person. Right from the beginning, his words had a hint of moral maniption.

    "I wouldn''t dare."

    "Then let''s step back for now. We have things to do, and after we finish, we''ll naturally go and see."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle Zu, Martial Uncle, this disciple takes leave."

    Zhang Liang saw that Lin Jiang wasn''t easy to talk to and didn''t dare to act recklessly, so he quickly left.

    "What do you think?"

    "Master, regarding this matter, I suggest that we not intervene too much."

    "Why?"

    "Spiritual medicine earns more than spiritual paddy butes with greater risks. This is normal. The higher the risk, the greater the returns. If the risk is low and the ie is high, then they wouldn''t have any business to do. Wouldn''t others do it too?"

    Lin Jiang said. The Five Elements Sect doesn''t require anyone to farm or cultivate spiritual medicine. It''s a personal choice. It''smon knowledge that risks and ie are proportional, right?

    "I think Junior Martial Brother is right, Dad. You can''t take on everything and handle every matter."

    "Am I seen as a boring person in your eyes?"

    "Of course not, Master is the smartest and most flexible."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Zhang Wanjing fell silent and started to worry.

    "I''m serious."

    "I think you''re talking nonsense."

    "Even if it''s nonsense, it is a fragrant nonsense, not stinky."

    "Junior brother, you have be shameless."

    Zhang Shuhua couldn''t hold back anymore, he also wanted to worry.

    Lin Jiang ignored him, still hoping that Zhang Wanjing would introduce him to some experienced mentors to teach him how to practice the Five Spirit Manual. The Five Spirit Manual is of high rank and very difficult to practice. He was confused because he couldn''t understand it on his own. In order to improve his skills without feeling embarrassed or discouraged.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Let''s go and visit the area where they grow medicinal herbs in a few days. If there are really any difficulties, I''ll help if I can."

    After thinking for a while, Zhang Wanjing said that he should investigate first before making any judgments. He didn''t want to make decisions without understanding the situation.

    After about a month passed, Zhang Wanjing finished his current tasks and left the rest to a few assistants to handle. It was their daily work.

    It is said that the stewards of Cold Crow Mountain became much more serious in their attitude towards work after Zhang Wanjing arrived. They no longer had their previousziness and their abilities improved greatly.

    After finishing these tasks, Zhang Wanjing asked Zhang Shuhua and Lin Jiang to investigate the background of the herb-growing disciples. If what Zhang Liang said was true, Zhang Wanjing naturally wanted to help them. This is called a win-win situation.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua only acted after disguising their appearance. Now they are popr figures among the outer disciples and attract attention wherever they go. It is impossible to go unnoticed without disguises. Lin Jiang is very experienced in disguise, and Zhang Shuhua often disguises himself due to his efforts to earn merit points in the past.

    After more than half a month of investigation and consulting with a respectable Spiritual Farmer from the Spiritual Herb Garden, they gained some knowledge and reported back to Zhang Wanjing.

    "Master, we have basically rified the situation with the herb-growing disciples. What Zhang Liang said was roughly true, but it was exaggerated."

    "Can you tell me carefully what happened?"

    "Yes, Master, in fact, spiritual paddy and low-level spiritual medicine both belong to the category of Spiritual Farmer. The difference between the two lies in the level of difficulty. Most of the disciples in the outer sect cultivate low-level spiritual medicine. Their biggest mistake is being driven by the desire for high profits, whilecking cultivation techniques. As a result, they are unable to control the risks involved. Often, due to poor techniques, they experience reduced yields, no harvest, or insufficient potency in the medicine, among many other problems."

    "Pursuing profits is natural for people, so we can''t me them."

    "Actually, Master, that''s not entirely wrong. But I still have the same opinion: risk and ie are linked. The higher the ie, the greater the risk. If there''s high ie without any risk, who wouldn''t want to do it?"

    Lin Jiang replied. Well, to solve this problem, we can reduce the risk by cultivating some low-tech spiritual medicine.

    "Xiao Yi, you''re already in your forties. Have you ever thought about getting married and having children?"

    "No, Master, we were talking about spiritual medicine. Why are we suddenly talking about this? Is there a female disciple that the Master wants to introduce to me?"

    "Don''t be ridiculous, I''m discussing serious matters with you. Have you ever been a father?"

    "As a disciple, I am not married yet, so how can I be a father?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He had been a father too, but only for four years. However, those few sons of his probably died a long time ago, if time is synchronous.

    "You''ve never been a father, but let me ask you, if your son made a mistake, how would you handle it?"

    "Take responsibility for the consequences, of course."

    "But what if your son can''t bear those consequences?"

    "Um..."

    "Junior brother, what our father means is that these outer disciples are like sons to him. Instead of ming them when they make mistakes, we should help them correct their errors. That''s what a father should do."

    Zhang Shuhua chimed in, understanding what his father was thinking as a son himself.

    Lin Jiang scratched his head, finally understanding Zhang Wanjing''s perspective. It''s difficult when everyone has a hierarchical mindset, and he fears that those people would never be satisfied.

    "I don''t me you for not being a father, but we really need to think of a solution for this matter."

    "Can we not talk about dad? When you say that, it always makes me want to call you dad."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. Why does this person always want to be someone''s dad? Isn''t it good to be a son? You can rely on your parents and get support, right?

 Chapter 142

    Chapter 142

    Five Elements Sect, Cold Crow Mountain (outside the sect)

    Zhang Wanjing, who likes being a dad, didn''t do the things a dad should do. He handed over all these matters to Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua, wanting them to take care of it.

    After thinking for several days, Lin Jiang finally had some ideas. Then, he held a feast in Medicine City and invited a Spiritual Farmer named Zhong Wen. This person was the one who previously cultivated new spiritual paddy seeds for the outer sect disciples. It was said that his master was a very good friend of Zhang Wanjing.

    "Senior Brother Zhang, Senior Brother Xiao, don''t worry about the expenses, I''ll pay."

    Zhong Wen looked at the table full of food and couldn''t help but drool. As a Spiritual Farmer, he didn''t have a lot of money, so he couldn''t usually afford such a luxurious meal.

    "Just call me Xiao Yi. I''m not paying, he''s paying."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, um..."

    "Let''s eat first, no need to talk."

    Lin Jiang started eating first, after Zhang Wanjing squeezed in, it had been a long time since Lin Jiang had eaten at the inner hall''s cafeteria. It was a bit far and he was toozy to run, so he hadn''t had a big meal in a long time.When Zhong Wen saw that Lin Jiang had started, he also didn''t hold back. The three of them ate quickly, finishing the battle in an hour. Lin Jiang asked the waiter to clear away the leftovers and brought a pot of good tea.

    "Senior Brother Zhong, this meal doesn''t have any special meaning. I just wanted to get closer to you, Senior Brother Zhong, and also ask about the Spiritual Farmer."

    "Feel free to ask anything, Senior Brother Xiao. I will answer honestly."

    "Senior Brother Zhong, what does the term Spiritual Farmer mean? Is it something done by growing spiritual paddy and low-level spiritual medicine? Can I call myself a Spiritual Farmer too?"

    "It might seem that way to outsiders, but we cannot."

    "What exactly does it mean?"

    "Spiritual Farmer, just like Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, is a profession that covers many aspects and is not as simple as it seems. For example, as a first-tier low-grade Spiritual Farmer, one needs to be familiar with various aspects of a hundred types of spiritual herbs, including their medicinal properties and growth habits. And it also demands a sessful cultivation rate. For instance, out of a hundred spiritual herb seeds, how many can be sessfully nurtured into seedlings, how the seedlings mature into fully grown herbs, and the required medicinal properties, especially those that cannot be naturally grown in the wild..."

    "Wow, I''ve learned a lot. I didn''t expect there to be so much to being a Spiritual Farmer."

    "The cultivation world has a history of countless years, and any cultivation profession today is no longer a simple matter. Even spiritual paddies are the same. There are no less than two hundred different types of spiritual paddies. Our Five Elements Sect only cultivates the simplest ones. The advanced ones are as challenging as high-grade spiritual herbs."

    Zhong Wen spoke passionately about his major. That was his expertise.

    "Senior Brother Zhong, does our sect have any certifications or qualifications for being a Spiritual Farmer? It wouldn''t make sense if I became a second-tier Spiritual Farmer just by nting a few second-tier spiritual herbs, right?"

    "No, but our Spiritual Herb Garden has its own assessment methods. Only by passing the assessment from the senior members of the Spiritual Herb Garden can one receive higher-level tasks. For example, I am currently a second-tier medium-grade Spiritual Farmer, and I am able to cultivate some second-tier top-grade spiritual herbs and even third-tier herbs. However, the sect doesn''t assign me such tasks. I can only cultivate them privately and bear the gains and losses myself."

    "Got it."

    Lin Jiang nodded with his hands sped together. The profession of Spiritual Farmer seems quite chaotic, with no detailed division of upational levels.

    "Senior Brother Xiao has asked so many questions. What exactly does he want to know?"

    "My master gave me a task, which is to help the disciple who cultivates low-level spiritual herbs improve their ie."

    "This is a good thing. I know everything you do at the outer gate. Martial Uncle Zhang is a good person."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "But this is a difficult matter. We know nothing about being a Spiritual Farmer."

    "If Senior Brother Xiao doesn''t mind, you cane to me if you need any help in the future. I will definitely help."

    "Senior Brother Zhong, are you serious?"

    "Of course, although I''m not highly skilled in Spiritual Herb Garden, I am capable enough to teach those disciples."

    Zhong Wen said that the spiritual herbs grown by the disciples at the outer gate are just beginners, they are not even qualified to enter the Spiritual Herb Garden. It''s not a difficult task at all.

    Lin Jiang was overjoyed. After all the effort, he was waiting for this moment. He immediately said. Senior Brother Zhong, if that''s the case, then I really need your help. What I think is, to improve their ie, we need to improve their skill as Spiritual Farmers. Instead of training them to be real Spiritual Farmers, we can provide training on their proficiency in certain spiritual herbs...

    Lin Jiang''s idea was actually quite simple, which is to provide skill training. They don''t need to be all-rounders, just having one or two specialists is enough. Learn something and then cultivate it every year. Specifically, they can specialize in cultivating high-demand spiritual herbs without worrying about the market.

    And Zhang Wanjing can also n their industries. It''s not good if everyone grows the same spiritual medicine. They should stagger it to ensure the market won''t be saturated.

    Zhong Wen hadn''t realized it yet, but Zhang Shuhua''s eyes were getting brighter. He thought this was a good idea.

    "Alright, I''ll take care of it. When I have time in the future, I can go to the outer sect and teach some disciples, only teaching them the cultivation of certain spiritual medicines."

    "Senior Brother Zhong, is it settled then? You cane to the outer sect a few days every month to teach them."

    Lin Jiang was thrilled. They would have technicians now, and he could train them specifically.

    "Okay, but it can''t take up too much of my time. I''m also very busy."

    "That''s for sure."

    Lin Jiang said, and when the timees, he will hire a few more Spiritual Farmers. If necessary, he will give them some benefits. Then, the task will bepleted.

    "Then Zhong Wen should go back first."

    "Why the rush? There''s a second performance."

    "Second performance? What second performance?"

    "Finally, a chance to visit Medicine City. Of course, we have to go to the Sweet Red Building and have some fun."

    Lin Jiang said. It''s been so many years! He hasn''t had a heart-to-heart conversation in the Sweet Red Building for years. So many things weighing on his mind, nowhere to vent. It''s about to overflow.

    Upon hearing this, Zhongwen was stunned, and Zhang Shuhua''s face froze. Lin Jiang looked at them and blurted out, "Oh my, you guys still have your virginity, don''t you?"

    "Um, um, Senior Brother Xiao, I..."

    "Junior brother, I have something to attend to. I will leave first."

    "Wait, don''t run!"

    Lin Jiang immediately pressed down on Zhang Shuhua, who had a flushed face. He struggled for a moment but gave up. Junior brother had such strength that he couldn''t break free.

    "Come on, Senior Brother will take you to see something amazing, and tonight you might even get a big red envelope."

    "Ah..."

    "But let me make this clear, in the martial world, we don''t gamble or borrow, and we don''t treat others to expensive things. You''ll have to pay for this yourselves."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Shuhua, what''s wrong with you today? You seem lost in thought."

    The next morning, inside Cold Crow Mountain, Zhang Wanjing looked at Zhang Shuhua with doubt and asked. Normally, his son is honest and diligent, full of energy every day. What''s wrong with him today?

    "Master, Senior Brother is reminiscing."

    "Reminiscing about what?"

    "Reminiscing endlessly."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said. At this moment, Zhang Shuhua finally understood and shouted, ''I didn''t do it, junior brother, don''t say nonsense.''

    "What did you do yesterday?"

    "Father, I, I, I..."

    Zhang Shuhua suddenly panicked, wondering if he should confess.

    "Master, we just went to a restaurant to have a meal. The food was really delicious. Senior brother kept eating te after te and is still savoring it."

    "Yes, yes, yes."

    "You have no ambition. One dish can make you savor it till now. Xiao Yi, how is the matter going?"

    "Senior Brother Zhong has agreed, but we can''t rely on him alone. We need to find a few more people."

    "I''ll handle this. I know people from the Spiritual Herb Garden."

    "We should give them some rewards, so they won''t work for nothing, or else they won''t be motivated."

    "I will consider it carefully."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. He wasn''t old-fashioned. If people work for nothing more than three times, they will lose their motivation.

    "We should pay attention to the nning of cultivating medicinal herbs. We shouldn''t nt the same kind of medicinal herb all at once, otherwise the prices will go down."

    "This is difficult. It''s the Internal Affairs Hall''s matter, and I can''t interfere right now."

    "Try tomunicate more with the disciples who cultivate medicinal herbs. It''s best to let them have more internal connections and share their knowledge. This way, we can know who nted what kind of medicinal herb and how much, and avoid nting the same kind."

    Lin Jiang suggested organizing a society, bringing people together tomunicate with each other, so that it can be avoided.

    Of course, there are other good solutions as well, such as finding ways to sell the surplus, even if we nt too much. But that would be troublesome, and Lin Jiang doesn''t want to put in that much effort.

    "Alright, I will n it well. You did a good job this time, and I will reward you."

    "What reward?"

    "You will know in a couple of days."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. He cared a lot about his disciple''s matter. He had already found a cultivator with a golden core who practiced the Five Spirit Manual, and he asked him to teach Lin Jiang.

 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143

    Five Elements Sect, Outer Sect.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua stood on top of a hill and saw the Spiritual Farmer in the Spiritual Herb Garden exining cultivation techniques to the disciples who were nting spiritual herbs in the spiritualnd.

    In front of them was just one person. Due to Zhang Wanjing''s efforts, twelve people were sent from the Spiritual Herb Garden, not from the sect itself, but through Zhang Wanjing''s personal connections.

    "Junior brother doesn''t seem very satisfied with this oue."

    Zhang Shuhua said. He could tell that Lin Jiang was very unhappy about it.

    "Yes, I''m unhappy. Even though I listened to my master''s words, I still stick to my own thoughts. My master''s thoughts are too old-fashioned. You see, just because a father treats his son well doesn''t mean the son will definitely be filial. There are also ungrateful children. We should be kind to people, but we need to choose carefully as well."

    Lin Jiang expressed his opinion. Zhang Wanjing is too loving and kind, but most good people like him don''t have a good ending throughout history.

    "Junior martial brother, as you said, everyone has their own personality. My father has been like this for hundreds of years and he can''t change."

    "That''s why the master always gets taken advantage of.""He doesn''t think he''s being taken advantage of. People have to do something with their lives, not just for cultivation."

    "Let''s not talk about this anymore. I''ll go first."

    Lin Jiang felt a bit frustrated. He walked away directly. The father and son are just the same - they don''t listen no matter what you say. He can''t persuade them anymore.

    "Where are you going, junior martial brother? My father is still waiting for our report."

    "You write it yourself. I''m going home to seclude myself."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. He hadn''t had a proper retreat for several years now. These years with Zhang Wanjing, they worked during the day and practiced at night. It was very hard, so he wanted to take a break.

    The main problem was that he and Zhang Wanjing had many conflicting ideas. If it continued like this, Lin Jiang was afraid he would be driven to death by anger.

    Returning to his cave, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao warmly weed him. These years, they mostly stayed in Lin Jiang''s cave. Although Lin Jiang''s cave was not big, only ten acres, it was still better than the Spirit Beast Bag because they couldn''t freely soar in it.

    "You two siblings are the best."

    After teasing them for a while, Lin Jiang sighed. Now he understood why many people liked to have pets like cats and dogs. Petspletely depended on their owners. Whatever the owner said, they would do. They were not asplicated and annoying as people.

    This desire for control was really strong.

    Back in his room, Lin Jiang began his practice. These past few days, Lin Jiang received the rewards that Zhang Wanjing had mentioned. A golden core Martial Uncle taught him for a few days and answered all his questions about the Five Spirit Manual. It made Lin Jiang have a sudden realization and a deeper understanding of the Five Spirit Manual.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "In two more years, I can break through to the mid-stage of Building Foundation. After spending fifty or sixty years, my cultivation is finallying back."

    Lin Jiang deeply sighed. Fifty or sixty years, just for a cultivation method. Many people thought it was crazy, but Lin Jiang believed it was absolutely worth it.

    Finding the right cultivation method is really important. It makes practicing smooth and reduces the chances of getting stuck.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Three months went by in the blink of an eye, and Lin Jiang finished his closed-door cultivation. Zhang Wanjing didn''t say anything because it''s normal for cultivators to do that. Even when doing things, they have to bnce their cultivation.

    Lin Jiang asked about the situation with the disciples who cultivate medicinal herbs, and things were going very smoothly. The effects were good, and there was even a survival rate for growing medicinal herbs. If you nt a hundred, those with poor skills might lose half of them. But now, there are true Spiritual Farmers in the sect providing them with training, and the first thing they improved was the survival rate of the medicinal herbs.

    Just this alone has saved them from countless losses, and Zhang Wanjing received praise once again.

    Lin Jiang didn''t say much about this. As long as it didn''t harm others, let Zhang Wanjing have his fun.

    After finishing his closed-door cultivation, Lin Jiang''s focus returned to himself. He spent more time on cultivation and talisman drawing.

    Lin Jiang''s spiritual sense far surpasses the average Building Foundation stage. Its strength can support the refinement of all second-grade spiritual talismans. So Lin Jiang is preparing to try refining second-grade high-quality spiritual talismans.

    Second-grade high-quality spiritual talismans have a wide range of prices in the market. The cheapest one costs one hundred spirit stones, while the most expensive can reach nearly three thousand spirit stones. The price difference is huge, depending on the type of spiritual talisman.

    However, Lin Jiang didn''t have many high-level runes in his hands. He originally wanted to exchange some at the sect, but he didn''t expect that they wouldn''t allow it. The reason was that he hadn''t done anything at Talisman Hall and hadn''t contributed to the sect. Even if he had Merit Points, it wouldn''t work. High-level runes were already at a stage where the sect needed to keep them confidential.

    Lin Jiang even specifically asked Zhao Jiang and others from Talisman Hall, and their answer was the same. He had to stay at Talisman Hall for a certain number of years and provide arge number of spiritual talismans before he could exchange runes. And there were also strict confidentiality measures, no leaks allowed.

    Lin Jiang had no choice but to turn to Medicine City to purchase runes from the outside world. There weren''t many runes avable in the external market, and they were all used for regr purposes. He couldn''t find any of those powerful and special ones.

    "The sect is restricted everywhere, too."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He hoped that Zhang Wanjing would take over and be the leader. If Zhang Wanjing took over, he, as a personal disciple, would have many privileges. He could reasonably and legally obtain more runes.

    Now that Zhang Wanjing was being marginalized and suppressed, Lin Jiang could only reluctantly ept it. He would use regr runes for now. Regr runes also had buyers, so he would earn some spirit stones first. His wealth had been fluctuating these past few years and had shrunk by more than half.

    The end of the year arrived, and what Lin Jiang and the others had done started to show real effects. The farming disciples who had previouslye to Cold Crow Mountain came to thank Zhang Wanjing. This year, they promoted new spiritual paddy seeds. Almost all the outer disciples'' crop yields had improved, and many people had significantly increased their cultivation levels. Although they were still in the Qi Refining Period, their vitality and spirit werepletely different. They had a light in their eyes and were full of hope for the future.

    Zhang Wanjing was very pleased with this as well. He believed that his life''s value should be reflected in serving the sect, and it was already being shown.

    And he was bing happier the more he worked. Although he was now dealing with the lower level disciples, they showed him a more practical and positive side. It was actually much easier than when he was in the Internal Affairs Hall, where he had to constantly worry about others hindering him.

    "The future of the sect lies with them. They are young and energetic. I feel the power of youth in them. Although theye from humble backgrounds and have average talent, a sect needs not only top experts to guard the gate but also arge number of mid-level backbone disciples, right?"

    Zhang Wanjing opened up to Lin Jiang. He saw countless possibilities in these outer disciples, after all, there were many examples of outer disciples rising up and making aeback. Perhaps among these people, there might be someone who can build foundations, form a golden pill, or even reach the stage of childbirth.

    "Master, why are you talking about them? I feel young too. I''m not even sixty years old yet."

    Lin Jiang said. Don''t underestimate people like this. We are all young guys. I am too.

    "Haha, that''s true. You are really good. My junior brother speaks highly of you."

    "Is that so? Then when can Martial Uncle teach me again?"

    "Don''t push your luck. It''s not easy for me to invite someone once."

    "Master, I''m not joking. I really feel like I need guidance. You are my master, but if you don''t practice the Five Spirit Manual, then you have to find someone who does to teach me."

    Lin Jiang thought that he had been careless when he became Zhang Wanjing''s disciple. He didn''t pay attention to what cultivation method Zhang Wanjing specialized in, only focusing on him being a prominent figure.

    This old man is not honorable. He knew Lin Jiang was young, so he fooled him.

    "Stop it! The teachings of a master to a disciple are not just about cultivation. Besides cultivation, I can teach you anything. As your master, I am more than capable."

    "Is that so? Otherwise, if my master taught me how to draw symbols, I would have the power of a second-tier top-grade cultivator."

    "You child, you shouldn''t have such thoughts. Is bing a disciple just for personal gain? You need to..."

    Zhang Wanjing''s face turned stiff. Oh no, he doesn''t know how to draw symbols either. This disciple is quite challenging.

    "Master, don''t go. Just tell me, what else can you teach me?"

    Lin Jiang saw Zhang Wanjing trying to slip away immediately after speaking and quickly intercepted him. This won''t do, he must get some benefits from Zhang Wanjing, otherwise bing his master would be in vain.

    "When I have some free time, I will teach you swordsmanship that is no less than the swordsmanship of the Cloud Sword Sect''s cultivators."

    Zhang Wanjing was slippery as an eel. He couldn''t be stopped by Lin Jiang. Leaving behind a few words, he disappeared without a trace.

    "Is your father good at swordy?"

    Lin Jiang turned to Zhang Shuhua and asked, as if he hadn''t heard that Zhang Wanjing was skilled at fighting, but had seen him being very capable of spraying.

    "My father has offended all the high-level members of the sect. Can you guess why no one dares to do anything to him?"

    "Doesn''t he have a powerful backer?"

    "A backer can intimidate those at the Nascent Soul stage, but even the elders at the Nascent Soul stage have disciples at the golden core stage. So why don''t they dare to make a move?"

    "Good question, I understand now."

    Lin Jiang was delighted. This was a really good question. It seemed that Zhang Wanjing could really fight, otherwise how could he be so arrogant in the Five Elements Sect?

    "My father had conflicts with people from the Wilderness and Cloud Sword Sect before. He was besieged by five sword cultivators at the same level, but he managed to retreat unharmed."

    "Cough, cough, I know your father is amazing. Stop emphasizing it. So, how skilled is your senior brother?"

    "Ten percent"

    "Tsk tsk, I don''t believe it"

    "Believe it or not"

    "Unless you teach me"

    "If you don''t teach me, I''m not your master"

    "You''re my senior, if you teach me, I''ll take you to y at the Sweet Red Building"

    "You, you, you, don''t mention this matter again"

    Zhang Shuhua suddenly became angry, you thief, you''re messing with his mind again. After suppressing his evil thoughts, you''re ying with fire.

    "Senior, don''t run away. I received a message that a few little fairies havee to the Sweet Red Building. They have a good understanding of people''s clothes, oh no, it''s people''s feelings..."

    Zhang Shuhua ran away in panic while Lin Jiang chased after him relentlessly. Lin Jiang couldn''t help but look down on him, thinking "Can you even fight? I''ve never seen you be any good at it. I could take you down easily with a few little fairies."

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144

    The Five Elements Sect, Cold Crow Mountain (outer sect)

    Rows of disciples kneeled at the entrance of Cold Crow Mountain. There were familiar faces as well as new ones, all anxiously watching Lin Jiang and Zheng Yi converse. They hoped to see a favorable oue.

    "Senior Brother Zheng, don''t worry. My senior brother has gone to find our master."

    Lin Jiangforted Zheng Yi. His master had recently gone into seclusion, and Lin Jiang had no intention of disturbing Zhang Wanjing. However, he couldn''t stop Zhang Shuhua, so he had no choice.

    "Martial Uncle Xiao, we can only rely on Martial Uncle Zhang this time. Otherwise, we really have no hope."

    Zheng Yi anxiously spoke. Actually, he wasn''t considered a disciple of the sect anymore, but his two sons were. Moreover, they were the greatndlords of the outer sect, renting 10,000 mu of spiritualnd from the sect to grow spiritual paddy.

    Spiritual paddy cultivation was their specialty. They had the skills and tools for it. Since Zhang Wanjingpleted the water conservancy project five years ago and introduced new spiritual paddy seeds, they had been living quite prosperously. Zheng Yi had nned it out. Even if they couldn''t obtain the Building Foundation Pill from the sect, if they saved for a little over ten years, it would be enough for them to buy one outside. With hope, one of his sons could break through the Building Foundation stage, thereby achieving the family''s rise.

    Unexpectedly, amand from the sect shattered his hopes - starting from this year, the sect would increase their workload.

    In the past, they rented spiritualnd from the sect, and had to contribute 300 kilograms of spiritual paddy per mu as their workload. This ounted for about 60% of their harvest, and even then, it had to be a good harvest. If the fields were not well-tended or if they were slightlycking, they might not even have enough to contribute. So, they lived in extreme hardship.Now, seeing that their days were better, the sect increased the workload to 500 kilograms of spiritual paddy per mu. This was disastrous - it meant going back to their previous difficult days.

    Some people were even worse off than before, because there were differences in the fertility of the fields. Some fields were far from the spiritual veins, with thin spiritual energy, or the irrigation couldn''t reach them, resulting in low yields per mu. It was impossible for them to all rent good fields, as they were mixed with both good and bad ones. With thismand, it meant that at least 60-70% of their ie would be taken by the sect.

    "Don''t worry, Senior Brother Zheng, there will be hope."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He couldn''t understand what the problem was. ording to reason, the number of disciples in the sect hadn''t fluctuated significantly for hundreds of years. Even if there were minor fluctuations, the sect couldn''t possiblyck so much spiritual paddy. There must be some issue with a certain aspect.

    Regardless of which aspect had a problem, Zhang Wanjing would need to take risks and offend the higher-ups in the sect, which Lin Jiang didn''t want to see.

    After so many years, Lin Jiang knew how Zhang Wanjing had gained his support. It was because the sect''s Soul Changing Ancestor valued him greatly. But the problem was that the Soul Changing Ancestor was no longer in the Five Elements Sect. No one knew where they had gone, and it was unknown how effective their support would be.

    Normally, Zhang Wanjing could talk his way out of things, but when it came to their core interests, it was different. When Zhang Wanjing previously tried to initiate reforms, didn''t it end up as a stillbirth? It was directly crushed, and even Zhang Wanjing was thrown into this mountain valley to work in the fields.

    "Uncle Zhи▒ has arrived."

    "Uncle Zhи▒..."

    "Uncle Zhи▒..."

    Zhang Wanjing eventually appeared, and when he did, the disciples instantly became excited, as if they had seen a savior.

    Zhang Wanjing waved his hand, causing everyone to quiet down, and then said. Dear disciples, rest assured, I am aware of this matter. I will discuss it with the sect and await my results.

    After leaving a few words, Zhang Wanjing called for Zheng Yi to understand the situation seriously. Upon learning the results, his face turned pale.

    "These troublemakers..."

    Zhang Wanjing clenched his teeth and cursed. In his opinion, there must have been troublemakers within the upper levels of the sect, embezzling many spiritual grains. Otherwise, why would there be such a big shortage of spiritual grains? He remembered that ording to the previous workload, the sect always had surplus spiritual grains, at least enough tost the disciples for a year, to handle crises and such.

    "Xiao Yi, Shи▒huив,e with me to the Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Teacher, let''s be cautious and see what''s going on first."

    "Go."

    Ignoring Lin Jiang, Zhang Wanjing got up and flew away. While you could fly outside the Five Elements Sect, you couldn''t do so inside. Zhang Wanjing obediently walked, as only elders and above were allowed to fly within the inner gates. It was a privilege or for disciples carrying out missions for the Law Enforcement Hall.

    "Jin Yu, get out of here."

    Zhang Wanjing was very angry and directly called out Vice Hall Master Jin''s name.

    "Deputy Hall Master Zhang, Vice Hall Master Jin is not in the Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Where is he?"

    "He went out for something and isn''t in his cave either."

    A steward quickly spoke up, saying that Vice Hall Master Jin had been blocked by Zhang Wanjing at the door and had managed to sneak out this time.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t believe it. He searched everywhere with his senses, but he couldn''t find Vice Hall Master Jin. He punched the cotton angrily, which made Zhang Wanjing even angrier.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Shuhua, you go and keep watch at Jin Yu''s residence. Xiao Yi, you stay here and keep watch. Let me know when Jin Yu returns."

    "Yes, master."

    "Dad, where are you going?"

    "I''m going to ask the head disciple who gave this ridiculous order."

    Zhang Wanjing said that since he couldn''t find Jin Yu, he went directly to the head disciple. Such matters required themand of the head disciple to be carried out.

    The head disciple didn''t hide, but instead waited for Zhang Wanjing toe to him.

    "Head disciple, Martial Uncle."

    "I knew you woulde. So, couldn''t you find Jin Yu?"

    "Yes, he hid."

    "Where is the Master of the Internal Affairs Hall?"

    "He never serves as a steward, this order must havee from Martial Uncle."

    "I agreed to it."

    "Martial Uncle, I need a reason. The tasks of the sect haven''t changed for hundreds of years. Why do we need to increase the workload this year?"

    "Because the consumption has increased, there''s not enough spiritual paddy to eat, so we have to increase it."

    "That''s a joke. The disciples of the Five Elements Sect fluctuate by no more than three hundred people each year. It has been less than seven years since I left the Internal Affairs Hall, even if no disciple has decreased in these seven years, the increase is only by more than two thousand people. The spiritualnd for cultivating spiritual paddy outside the sect covers nearly three million acres. Does the Sect Master know how much the increased workload is and how much more spiritual paddy can be produced?"

    Zhang Wanjing calcted for the Sect Master. With an increase of two hundred kilograms per acre in the workload, it''s almost doubled from before. It should be enough for around ten thousand people to eat. Why do we have to increase it so much with just over two thousand more people?

    "You''re right about the calction."

    "Since it''s right, why is it like this?"

    "Wanjing, do you know how many people there are among the disciples of the Sect in the Qi Refining Period, Building Foundation Period, and Golden Core Period?"

    "I''m not sure about the specifics, but including the misceneous disciples, there should be tens of thousands of people in the Qi Refining Period, over a thousand people in the Building Foundation Period, and over sixty people in the Golden Core Period."

    Zhang Wanjing said that the exact number of people in the Sect and the number of people in each realm were top secret. Even he didn''t know the exact numbers, only a rough idea.

    "That''s about right. Since you know, you should understand the Sect''s intentions."

    "Intentions? What intentions? If the Sect doesn''tck so many spiritual paddies, why do they need to recruit so many? Is the Five Elements Sectcking money?"

    "It''s not aboutcking money. Even if all these spiritual paddies were sold, it would only be a few million spirit stones. But the Sectcks more high-level resources."

    "What do you mean?"

    "In the cultivation world, as you ascend one small realm, the quantity of resources reduces by half or more. It''s normal for there to be three to five times less resources in the first realmpared to the second realm, and the same goes for the third realmpared to the second realm. The Sect can''t provide enough for so many Building Foundation Period cultivators."

    "Can the sect still think that there are too many disciples in the Building Foundation Period?"

    Zhang Wanjing became even more confused. The Golden Core Period is also advanced from the Building Foundation Period. Isn''t it better to have more disciples in the Building Foundation Period so that more Golden Core Period disciples can be born?

    This goes againstmon sense, but it is indeed the truth. Don''t worry, let me exin. If these disciples have excellent aptitude and strongprehension, then the sect doesn''t mind putting in a lot of effort to cultivate them. But you see, they are not like that. Even if they put in all their effort, they can only reach the Building Foundation Period at most. In this lifetime, they cannot form a Gold Core. At least 99% of the disciples are like this.

    But ording to the sect''s rules, after they reach the Building Foundation Period, they must provide them with corresponding resources. This weakens the resources avable to other truly talented disciples in the Building Foundation Period. It is actually detrimental to the sect.

    As the sect''s head, I have a responsibility to the sect. My task is to cultivate more disciples who can form a Gold Core, Nascent Soul, and even undergo Soul Changing. That''s why the sect divides disciples into Inner Disciples, Outer Disciples, and Servants.

    "So ording to what Martial Uncle said, these Outer Disciples, Servants, can only be considered as sustenance, consumables, serving the Inner Disciples. They can only stay in the Qi Refining Period for their whole life?"

    "That statement is too absolute. The sect also gives opportunities to Outer Disciples. But these opportunities cannot be too many, they can only be for a select few, only allowing some to break through and selecting the true talents that are left in the Outer Disciples."

    Qin Quan said. The sect may have many disciples in the Building Foundation Period, but if these people cannot be turned into productive forces and create more value, then they cannot be too many. More resources should be concentrated on the true talents.

    Besides, the sect has notpletely cut off their path. There can still be a few who can advance, but only a minority.

    Qin Quan''s words shocked Zhang Wanjing, who looked at him in disbelief. The heartfelt words were terrifying, and Zhang Wanjing found it hard to believe that this was the sect he was supposed to dedicate his life to.

    "Zhang Wanjing, I know it''s hard for you to ept, but this is the reality. The Five Elements Sect can no longer expand outward, our resources are limited, and the potential of those people is also limited. Even if they break through the Building Foundation stage, they''ll reach a dead end. The potential is just that small."

    "It''s different for the disciples in the inner sect. They have the chance to reach higher levels of cultivation. The status of our Five Elements Sect relies on the Soul Changing and the protection of the Nascent Soul, not Qi Refining or Building Foundation..."

    Qin Quan continued to advise Zhang Wanjing kindly, but Zhang Wanjing couldn''t listen to a single word. He couldn''t ept this reality.

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145

    Outer Sect of the Five Elements Sect - Cold Crow Mountain

    Lin Jiang saw Zhang Wanjing return in a state of confusion and knew that Zhang Wanjing had not seeded. Fortunately, he had already dispersed the crowd earlier, leaving only a few representatives behind.

    "Master, how is the situation?"

    "I''m tired and want to rest."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head, feeling very sad. The leader''s words destroyed his years of hard work. Everything he did as an outsider seemed like a joke now.

    "It seems like this matter has been decided, and it wasn''t caused by corruption in the Internal Affairs Hall, Master. It was an order from the top of the sect, right?"

    "How do you know?"

    "If someone in the Internal Affairs Hall was corrupt, they wouldn''t need to increase the workload so much all at once. They would find a way to bnce the books. Just adding ten extra pounds per acre would be enough. Is the sect foolish to suddenly increase the workload by two hundred pounds?!"

    Lin Jiang said, it''s not difficult to guess. If it was caused by corruption, it wouldn''t make sense logically."You are right, the leader told me..."

    Zhang Wanjing repeated the words that leader Qin Quan had said, and Zhang Shuhua became angry after hearing them.

    "How can the leader speak like that? Are the outer disciples destined to only be Qi Refining Period? Are they always going to be treated as inferior?"

    "Master, you must have convinced the leader, but actually, he convinced you, didn''t he?"

    Lin Jiang was very calm at this time because he had heard this theory before, and it was just nonsense.

    "The sect leader seems to make sense."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded sadly. This was the most painful part for him. He couldn''t argue with the sect leader. He knew that without a significant increase in resources for the Five Elements Sect as a whole, it would be impossible to have more Foundation Building and Core Formation cultivators. However, the sect needed more powerful cultivators than just Foundation Building cultivators. Reality shed with his ideals.

    "Master, let me tell you, the sect leader''s theory is nonsense. Do you believe it?"

    "You..."

    "Don''t worry, listen to my analysis. The sect leader''s point is that the sect''s resources are limited. If these low-level disciples break through to Foundation Building, it will dilute the resources for the talented disciples in the inner sect, burdening the entire sect, right?"

    "Yes."

    "This may seem reasonable, but it''s still nonsense because this idea is based on the assumption that the outer sect disciples are truly untalented and the inner sect disciples are true geniuses. But are all the inner sect disciples really geniuses? I don''t deny that there are a few true geniuses, but can we be certain that all inner sect disciples are geniuses?

    Also, does that mean that all outer sect disciples are untalented? Senior brother also came from the outer sect, and aren''t there any Golden Core Ancestors from the outer sect? What about Nascent Soul Elders?"

    Lin Jiang said. Do inner disciples have geniuses? Yes, but definitely not all inner disciples are geniuses. The definition of genius is not just about Spiritual Root, but also about understanding, aptitude, and opportunities.

    "Um..."

    "There is one more thing, which is fairness. No one can determine someone else''s life. It is unfair for the sect tobel all outer disciples as mediocre. Whether someone is mediocre or not needs to be verified with time, rather than the sect abruptly cutting off their hope."

    Lin Jiang said, as an outer disciple, he can empathize with this moment. He doesn''t believe he is worse than others, even though he is cheating.

    "Xiao Yi, what you said makes sense. I was deceived."

    "It''s not being deceived, it''s that the high-level members of the sect look down on outer disciples from the bottom of their hearts. That''s how they think, so they believe the sect leader''s words are right."

    "Then what should I do?"

    "Argue based on reason. I think there can still be some room for negotiation with the sect. The workload might increase, but not by this much."

    "Then what''s the difference?"

    "Yes, the difference lies in the Master."

    "Me?"

    Yes, this matter should alert the Master. The higher-ups of Five Elements Sect cannot be relied upon. If the Master still clings to ideals, then abandon illusions and prepare for a fight.

    If the Master is not prepared to persevere with ideals, then they can choose to give up and not help any outer disciples. Giving them a chance to earn more money would only benefit the higher-ups of the sect. Of course, the Master could also join them.

    If we can''t beat them, we can join them. It''s not shameful. With the Master''s abilities, joining them would ensure he isn''t treated poorly. The three of us can live well.

    Lin Jiang said. The ruling method of Five Elements Sect has destined most people to be sacrificed. No matter how they struggle, it''s useless. They can strip away the wealth of most people with a singlemand.

    Lin Jiang secretly hoped Zhang Wanjing would join them because in doing so, he would be a true beneficiary. They could also stand in a superior position and ruthlessly exploit the lower disciples. The money they earn through hard work would mostly end up in his pockets. Isn''t that wonderful?

    "Let me consider it."

    Zhang Wanjing was greatly shocked. On this day, his thoughts were shaken multiple times, and his mind was in chaos.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior brother, are you serious about thest sentence?"

    Coming out from inside Cold Crow Mountain, Zhang Shuhua said to Lin Jiang.

    "Yes, I am serious. Human nature is inherently selfish. Seeking benefits and avoiding harm is instinctive. If I were the master, I wouldn''t be so selfless."

    "Then why have you been so dedicated these past few years?"

    "Just hoping for good luck, what else can I do?"

    Lin Jiang said, if it weren''t for Zhang Wanjing''s sake and being moved by his charisma, would he do such foolish things?

    "But I hope my father can help those people. Cultivating immortality goes against the natural order. We don''t even fear the heavens, let alone the powerful."

    "You say such things areughable, really."

    "Junior apprentice, you..."

    "Go back and focus on your training. The cultivation world is all about strength. Do you remember what I told you? If you be a Soul Changing Ancestor, you will be the leader of the Five Elements Sect. Speak and the rules will follow. Who dares not to listen?"

    Lin Jiang left with a word and continued his cultivation. Strength is more important than anything else.

    Three dayster, the sect issued new regtions. The amount of work for farming disciples increased from 300 kilograms per acre to 400 kilograms, which is slightly less than the 500 kilograms mentioned earlier.

    As the news spread, some people continued to protest, but it was ineffective. Others epted silently, with mixed reactions. Zhang Wanjing, in particr, seemed less spirited than before and was clearly affected.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang didn''t pay much attention. He was just a junior disciple in the Building Foundation Period, and couldn''t handle the sect''s affairs. It would be good enough if he could take care of his own three acres ofnd.

    It was only after a month of not seeing Lin Jiang that Zhang Wanjing finally found him and said. Xiao Yi, I''ve thought about what you said and realized that many of your words are profound. I was wrong before.

    "Master, just listen to what your disciple says, don''t take it too seriously."

    "No, I am serious. You''re right. Let go of illusions, prepare for battle. I haven''t given up, I can still fight on."

    "Has the master thought it through?"

    "Yes, in two years, the sect will have a treasure for forming infants. I will prepare to go andpete for it."

    "How big is the chance?"

    Lin Jiang immediately became interested. A treasure for forming infants, master, you better form the infant quickly. This opportunity is too good to miss.

    "If Soul Changing Ancestor doesn''te back, the probability of me obtaining the treasure is zero. It''s impossible for me to obtain it, but I will still strive for it. I want the higher-ups to know that Zhang Wanjing hasn''t given up yet."

    "What if you lose?"

    "I will personally request to go guard the Wilderness town. Either I die in Wilderness or seize resources and achieve the realm of Nascent Soul. At that time, are you willing to follow me, master?"

    "Disciple is willing to follow the master."

    Lin Jiang said, Lin Jiang doesn''t have much savings left. He also ns to go to Wilderness and make money. It may not necessarily be by hunting monsters; he needs to see if there are other opportunities.

    Besides, he heard many stories about the Wilderness in Yunzhong City, and he really wants to go and see it. He hasn''t been to many ces yet.

    "Alright, for the next two years, prepare well with your flying sword, shield, magical robe, spiritual charm, and elixirs. You should also practice more spells since the Five Elements Sect is known for its magic."

    "Yes, Master. Will Senior Brother go too?"

    "I haven''t asked him yet, but he probably will."

    Zhang Wanjing said that his son is highly skilled inbat, so going to the Wilderness would be like a fish in water for him. He will definitely go.

    "That''s settled then! The three of us will bravely venture into the Wilderness and create a bright future."

    "Great!"

    "I will go back first."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He needs to start preparing now as the Wilderness is not a ce to fool around. He is going there to make money, not to risk his life.

 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146

    Five Elements Sect - The main gate hall

    The sect leader Qin Quan and a few elders are apanying Pill King Li Ruoxu. At the moment, Li Ruoxu is still covered in soot and looks tired. They didn''t talk for long and let Li Ruoxu rest, inviting him for a proper banquet tomorrow.

    "The Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is ready! It''s of the highest quality. Li Ruoxu truly lives up to his reputation."

    After Li Ruoxu left, Qin Quan excitedly said that the reason Five Elements Sect invited Li Ruoxu was to refine a Nascent Soul Achieving Pill, which is the best among various infant cultivation treasures.

    However, even though the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is only of the fifth grade, it is the most difficult among the fifth-grade pills. Even a sixth-grade alchemist would find it challenging to sessfully refine it. Although Five Elements Sect has sixth-grade alchemists, they are not as skilled as Li Ruoxu. To ensure the sess of pill formation, they invited Li Ruoxu to refine it in person.

    "I greatly admire Li Ruoxu''s alchemy skills. He truly deserves the title of Pill King."

    Pill Hall Master, an elder with a Nascent Soul, spoke from the side. He is a sixth-grade alchemist of Five Elements Sect, but he knows that his alchemy skills are inferior to Li Ruoxu''s. If he were to refine this pill, it might be sessful, but the quality would not be as good. Reaching a medium-grade level would already be considered great, but the efficacy of the pill would be much lower.

    "Junior brother, don''t underestimate yourself. The resources of Five Elements Sect are notparable to those of independent cultivators. In a few more years, you will definitely surpass Li Ruoxu."

    Qin Quan spoke andforted, saying that even though the Alchemy Sect was powerful, they were not as good as an independent cultivator. In fact, they were quite embarrassed.Pill Hall Master didn''t respond to this. With his rich knowledge, he became an experienced and excellent Alchemist. But to be a top Alchemist, talent is essential. In terms of talent, Li Ruoxu is truly strong.

    If he wants to surpass Li Ruoxu''s level, his only chance is to break through to the Soul Changing stage, with a higher realm, stronger spiritual awareness, and purer spiritual power, in order to surpass him. As for the technique, it''s better to forget about it.

    "Senior Martial Brother, how is the ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill determined?"

    "Let''s follow the old rules. It will be announced six months in advance, and anyone who has achieved Golden Core Perfection can sign up. The Presbyterian Church will evaluate it at that time."

    Qin Quan said that the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is different from other pills. To ensure its effectiveness, only one pill is produced from each batch. If there were nine pills, it wouldn''t be so troublesome; everyone could just have one.

    Now, with so many disciplespeting for it, it is inevitable that there will be some hidden struggles. This is not just ordinary benefits; it is the most basic core interest and it is extremely important.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Six monthster, all the disciples who had achieved Golden Core Perfection in the Five Elements Sect gathered in the main hall of the sect. There were a total of nine people, all of them high-ranking members of the Five Elements Sect. They were either Deputy Hall Masters in charge of certain halls, or responsible for key locations. Some were over four hundred years old and their vitality was starting to decline, while others were in their thirties and still looked young and energetic.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Belonging to the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill has always been one of the most important matters for our Five Elements Sect. This time, as the Infant Condensing Fruit ripens, we have invited Pill King Li Ruoxu toe and refine it into a pill. Today''s decision is about determining the ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill."

    "The conditions for owning the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill, like the Building Foundation Pill and the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill, include aptitude, understanding, age, and contributions to the sect..."

    Qin Quan spoke to everyone, and next to him appeared fourteen people. They were not all at the Nascent Soul stage, some were at the Golden Core Period. But they represented the right to choose on behalf of their masters, which was probably already arranged beforehand.

    "ording to the rules, six people will be eliminated in the first round of selection. The selection criteria include aptitude, requiring either a Single Spiritual Root or Five Spiritual Roots; understanding, a superior level of understanding; age, below four hundred years old; and contributions, a minimum of one million Merit Points within the sect."

    Seeing that everyone had no objections, Qin Quan continued. If it were other sects, those with Five Spiritual Roots would have no chance at all. But the Five Elements Sect is different. We have certain techniques that arepatible with Five Spiritual Roots. In the future, their achievements may not be lower than those with a Single Spiritual Root.

    As soon as Qin Quan spoke, a few people immediately showed despair on their faces. These conditions didn''t allow any shorings. Some had high contributions, but exceeded the age limit, while others had excellent Spiritual Roots but perhaps average understanding. They could only be eliminated.

    "After deliberation by the Presbyterian Church, Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall Jin Yu, Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall Zhang Wanjing, and Pill Hall Deputy Hall Master Fang Yu have been selected. The other six people should not feel disheartened. There is always a way for talented individuals, both within and outside the sect. In the Yun State and the vastnd, there are still opportunities to be found. Achieving the Infant Condensing stage doesn''t necessarily require the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill. If any of you have any clues, the sect will surely support you."

    Qin Quan continued. The Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is just one of the opportunities to reach the Infant Condensing stage. There are other treasures that can also help in this cultivation stage. Some might even be able to advance forcefully without relying on any treasures. Cultivation is full of endless possibilities.

    "The six disciples stood by as spectators, also serving as witnesses to the ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill this time."

    Someone on the side said, then a disciple brought six chairs and let the six people sit down. They are all high-level members of the sect, this time they are considered witnesses.

    "Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall, Jin Yu. He has a wood Spiritual Root qualification, excellentprehension ability selected by the sect, responsible for the Internal Affairs Hall for seventy-six years. He is hardworking and aplished. His expertise is a fifth rank Spiritual Farmer. If Jin Yu breakthroughs into the Nascent Soul stage, he will surely cultivate arge number of high-level spiritual herbs for our Five Elements Sect, greatly benefiting the sect..."

    "Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall, Zhang Wanjing. He possesses a golden Spiritual Root qualification, excellentprehension ability selected by the sect, responsible for the Internal Affairs Hall for one hundred and two years. He is hardworking and aplished. His expertise is swordsmanship. During the Foundation Building stage, he defeated five sword cultivators of the same level from the Cloud Sword Sect consecutively. If Zhang Wanjing breakthroughs into the Nascent Soul stage, the strength of the Five Elements Sect will surely rise to new heights..."

    "Deputy Hall Master of the Pill Hall, Fang Yu. He has a fire-type Single Spiritual Root apanied by a thunder-type Spiritual Root. He has an excellentprehension ability selected by the sect, responsible for the Pill Hall for sixty-five years. He is hardworking and aplished. His expertise is pill refining. He is already a fifth-grade high-quality Alchemist. If Fang Yu breakthroughs into the Nascent Soul stage, he will surely be able to..."

    Then there was an introduction of the situations of the three people, Jin Yu, Zhang Wanjing, and Fang Yu. They all emerged from countless disciples of the Five Elements Sect and have no weaknesses in various aspects. The only thing to consider is their expertise.

    Jin Yu is an expert in Spiritual Farming. Among the disciples of the Five Elements Sect, apart from a few Nascent Soul Elders, he is one of the top-rated. And Fang Yu is even more of a Pill Hall expert, second only to the Pill Hall Master, making him the second most important figure in the Five Elements Sect.

    On the other hand, Zhang Wanjing''s information is intriguing. He chose to highlight his skills inbat and fighting, but his fighting experience stopped at the Foundation Building stage because after forming the Golden Core, he entered the Internal Affairs Hall and no longer needed to personally wield his sword.

    This is very disadvantageous for Zhang Wanjing, but he dares not mention it. His other expertise is managing the sect, and because of this, he has offended countless people.

    "Elders, please cast your votes to eliminate one person."

    Qin Quan looked at the elders and said, giving them one hour of time.

    Soon, everyone began whispering and whispering, no one knew what they were saying, but the end result was that Zhang Wanjing was the first one to be eliminated.

    "Wanjing, sorry, the other two are more suitable than you."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t say anything. In terms of strict conditions, he was indeed a bit inferior. This is fair.

    "Next is the final ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill. Please elders make a decision."

    Qin Quan didn''t waste time, and continued, giving another hour of time.

    "Jin Yu, you didn''t make it."

    In the end, Qin Quan told Jin Yu that the sect chose Fang Yu this time.

    Advanced Spiritual Farmer is important, but Alchemist is even more important. The sect can buy more spiritual medicines from outside or capture monsters in the Wilderness, but they can''t do that with Alchemists. That''s why they invited Li Ruoxu this time, and it cost them a lot. If it wasn''t for Li Ruoxu, they would have had to seek help from the Zhonghang Sect, and the cost would have been even higher. If they try to make the medicine themselves and fail, the cost would be even higher.

    So, a high-level Alchemist is more important to the Five Elements Sect than a high-level Spiritual Farmer because they can create more value.

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Jin Yu looked sad. He had done a lot of work for this Nascent Soul Achieving Pill, but he still couldn''t convince all the elders.

    "The ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill has been decided. Disciples, you may leave. Fang Yu,e with me to the forbidden grounds so you can break through to the Nascent Soul stage as soon as possible."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Wait a moment."

    Just as everyone agreed, Zhang Wanjing suddenly spoke up.

    "Wanjing, what else do you have to say?"

    "Regarding the ownership of the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill, I have no objection, but Zhang Wanjing has something to say today."

    "You go ahead."

    "I request to go and guard the Wilderness town."

    "Nonsense, Wanjing, do you know what kind of ce Wilderness is? How many Golden Core disciples have died there in the past hundred years?"

    Qin Quan''s face changed dramatically. His worst fear hade true. Zhang Wanjing was going to give up and go to Wilderness. He really didn''t want Zhang Wanjing to leave because Zhang Wanjing bnced the conflicts within the sect. Without Zhang Wanjing stirring things up, the sect''s higher-ups would bepletely united.

    "Yes, in the past hundred years, the sect has lost nine Golden Core disciples, and Yun State has lost no less than forty Golden Core disciples in Wilderness."

    "Well, then..."

    "Of course, I am confident. Vice Hall Master Jin, how about we have a friendly match and let the elders see?"

    Zhang Wanjing said to Jin Yu. Jin Yu''s face immediately changed, and he quickly shook his head to refuse.

    "Don''t worry, I have taken off my real name. You have always doubted me, so I''ll give you a chance."

    "Zhang Wanjing, when did I ever doubt you? Don''t say things like that."

    Jin Yu said anxiously. Is this something that can be said in public?

    "You, who are timid like a mouse, think you can be the Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall? Hmph."

    "Zhang Wanjing, you.."

    "If you don''t believe me, then fight me."

    "I.."

    "Anyone within the sect, below the Nascent Soul stage, who thinks I, Zhang Wanjing, am not suitable for this important role, cane forward."

    Zhang Wanjing looked around arrogantly, and the other seven Golden Core masters didn''t respond. They could see Zhang Wanjing''s intentions; unless they had a grudge against him, they would not start a fight at this moment.

    "Master, look, no one is willing to fight."

    "Wanjing, be cautious."

    "I have made up my mind."

    "Alright, as you wish."

    Qin Quan gritted his teeth and said. With Zhang Wanjing being so firm, what else can he do?

    "Thank you, Master."

    "Disciple will leave first."

    "Respected elders, until we meet again, let''s get along well."

    Zhang Wanjingughed heartily, then turned to the crowd and said, before leaving. The Nascent Soul Elders present had varying expressions, making the atmosphere extremely tense for a while.

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147

    Above the mountain gate of the Five Elements Sect

    Three disciples, Zhang Wanjing and his master, were drinking tea on a flying boat. Zhang Wanjing''s flying boat was very advanced. It not only had a spacious interior andplete facilities, but also had a luxurious decor. It was veryfortable to sit in.

    "Master, where did you get this flying boat? It must have been expensive."

    "It was a gift from my master. Don''t even think about it, you can''t afford it."

    "So it was a gift from the Soul Changing Ancestor. No wonder it''s so luxurious."

    Lin Jiang eximed. He also had a flying boat, butpared to Zhang Wanjing''s, it was like the difference between a regr car and a Rolls-Royce. Both are vehicles, but one is in the sky and the other is on the ground.

    There''s no need topare, it just hurts.

    "When the Soul Changing Ancestores back, I''ll take you to meet him. If you can make the Soul Changing Ancestor happy, he might give you something as a reward. That would be enough for you to earn for several decades."

    "Then let''s thank the master in advance.""If you''re willing to apany me and suffer in Wilderness, this is nothing."

    "Is Wilderness very tough?"

    "Whether it''s tough or not depends on the individual. Some people enjoy it, while others find it tough. You''ll know when the timees."

    "Senior apprentice, have you been to Wilderness before?"

    Lin Jiang turned back and asked Zhang Shuhua. Zhang Shuhua shook his head. The main sect generally doesn''t rmend Qi Refining Period cultivators to venture into Wilderness. It''s not necessary. After he built his foundation, he followed Zhang Shuhua, so he hasn''t been there either.

    Wilderness is a general term for undevelopednd. It''s filled with demonic beasts, poisonous insects, and miasma. It''s very dangerous, but it''s also a treasure trove. There are rare spirit herbs and precious minerals in Wilderness. There are also endless demonic beasts to kill. Some people can make a fortune in Wilderness, while others die there. It depends on individual destiny.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Overall, sect disciples will be much safer. The real danger is for independent cultivators. Being an independent cultivator is too tough and not easy at all.

    Zhang Wanjing said. Exploitation by the sect exists everywhere. They establish bases in Wilderness and provide shelter for independent cultivators to rest, but they charge money for it, and the prices are expensive. The sect is the one benefiting and exploiting.

    Zhang Wanjing told the two people about the Wilderness. Without realizing it, they had crossed the main peak of the Yunzhong Mountain Range and arrived north of the Yun State mountain gate.

    "Master, didn''t they say the Wilderness was deserted? Howe we can see so many viges?"

    "This area is close to the south and very safe. The powerful beasts around here have already been cleared out. Not only do independent cultivators settle here, but our sect also has a presence. We have acquired many spiritual mountains, mines, and viges for resources. These viges provide us with spiritual rice, cloth, vegetables, and more, which helps reduce costs. The true Wilderness is still about eight thousand miles ahead."

    "So, does that mean our human race has expanded eight thousand miles?"

    "Pretty much. The human race has the advantage here, steadily expanding into the Wilderness. However, the demon race asionally counterattacks."

    "I heard that decades ago, the Heavenly Wolf King of the demon raceunched a counterattack, causing heavy casualties to the human race."

    "Yes, the Heavenly Wolf King possesses the bloodline of the Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf, a rare beast. It''s very difficult for them to reproduce. A few decades ago, one of its offspring was killed by the human race. Furious, the Heavenly Wolf King unleashed a horde of beasts, sweeping through many independent cultivators'' strongholds and small forces, resulting in many deaths. It was ultimately repelled by Lin Batian, the head of the Lin family in Anhua City. Lin Batian even severely injured the Heavenly Wolf King, chopping off one of its ws to end the beast tide. At that time, I led a support team for the Five Elements Sect strongholds, but unfortunately, I didn''t witness Lin Batian''s battle. It''s a pity."

    "Father, Anhua City has risen rapidly. In just over three hundred years, they went from the Building Foundation Period to the Nascent Soul stage and became a dominant force. I''m afraid they will be a major enemy for our Five Elements Sect in the future."

    Zhang Shuhua said. Anhua City is far away from the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, so there is no conflict with them. However, Anhua City borders the territory of the Five Elements Sect. With Lin Batian being so strong, there may be friction between them in the future.

    "Probably not, Anhua City is developing to the south, and we''re in the north. Lin Batian is smart and wouldn''t provoke the Five Elements Sect."

    "Why didn''t the sect eliminate the Lin family in advance?"

    "The origin of the Lin family is suspicious, and the sect hasn''t figured out their details yet. Since there hasn''t been direct conflict between both sides, why take action in advance?"

    "Why are you looking at me like that, Junior Brother?"

    Zhang Shuhua wanted to say more, but he noticed Lin Jiang staring at him with a sharp gaze, so he asked instead.

    "Nothing, Senior Brother, you look handsome today."

    Lin Jiang averted his gaze from wanting to teach Zhang Shuhua a lesson. This Senior Brother must have something wrong with his mind, he needs some treatment. How could he dare to confront his father in front of him? Isn''t he looking for trouble?

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Martial Uncle, Wan Jing pays his respects."

    Inside the base of the Five Elements Sect, Zhang Wanjing greeted a middle-aged man named Chen Xuanhua. Chen Xuanhua, who was the Nascent Soul Elder of the Five Elements Sect, was now in charge of guarding their base in the Wilderness.

    "No need for formalities, I feel relieved now that you''re here."

    "Within the base, Martial Uncle makes the decisions."

    "The Nascent Soul Elders of the sect never bother with mundane matters. I am only responsible for security. Everything else is up to you. I won''t waste any more words. Handover quickly and send that useless person away."

    Chen Xuanhua shook his head. The words were rude. A man beside him had an unpleasant facial expression, unable to speak in anger.

    Lin Jiang knew the identity of this person. He was the previous head of the base arranged by the Five Elements Sect, holding the position of Deputy Hall Master of the Foreign Affairs Hall. Somehow, he couldn''t get along with Chen Xuanhua. Chen Xuanhua had asked the sect multiple times to rece him, but no one was willing to take on the job. It was said that Chen Xuanhua had a terrible personality.

    After Zhang Wanjing volunteered to guard the Wilderness, his identity changed from Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall to Deputy Hall Master of the Foreign Affairs Hall. After all, Zhang Wanjing''s cultivation level and status were present, and no matter how the sect tried to exclude him, they had to give him some face.

    This was the rule of the cultivation world. Otherwise, it would be easy to downgrade Zhang Wanjing to a normal attendant. But the problem was that his superiors couldn''t suppress him. Sooner orter, he would be marginalized. It was better to give him a titr position. Of course, it was now not just a titr position, but real power.

    It took Zhang Wanjing three days toplete the handover. The previous Deputy Hall Master left with his trusted subordinates, leaving happily. Before parting, he warned Zhang Wanjing not to pay attention to Chen Xuanhua, as he was a madman.

    "Father, Uncle Chen has run away."

    Sure enough, within a day, Zhang Shuhua came to report.

    "I know, Chen Xuanhua went deep into the Wilderness to hunt demons."

    "Father, what''s the matter with this Chen Xuanhua?"

    "Chen Xuanhua doesn''t have much influence in the sect. He is unmarried, has no family, and doesn''t take disciples. He focuses on cultivation. The sect sent him to the Wilderness to test his character, but he couldn''t be tempered. He has always wanted to go to the Wilderness to hunt demons and earn resources. Deputy Hall Master Sun didn''t allow it before, and they had a big conflict. Now that I''m here, Chen Xuanhua is acting like he doesn''t care anymore."

    "Chen Xuanhua is disregarding the overall situation."

    Zhang Shuhua said. The sect''s Nascent Soul cultivator is guarding this ce. The most important thing is to ensure the safety of the stronghold. If he runs away, what will we do if high-level demons attack?

    "Never mind him, this ce is actually very safe. The territory of the fourth-level demonic beasts is far away from here, and they won''t easilye over. Now that he''s gone, it''s convenient for me to disy my skills."

    "Dad, what''s our next move?"

    Shuhua, you will be themander of the guards. Above you, there are three high-rankingmanders in the Golden Core Period, but they don''t hold real power. They are only responsible for monitoring the surrounding demonic beasts and intimidating independent cultivators within the base. You must have control over the guards.

    Xiao Yi, your responsibility is to manage the independent cultivators and the businesses in the city. Put pressure on all the people from Senior Brother Sun''s faction. Whether you can gain their loyalty will depend on your abilities.

    Zhang Wanjing said. The first thing we need to do is to clear out the previous high-ranking members. He didn''t bring many people, so it wille down to the two of us and our skills.

    "Master, it''s not difficult to defeat them, but it''s challenging to rece them with loyal followers. Without having spent a long time together, it''s hard to consider them as trusted allies."

    "That depends on your abilities. When you were in the sect, you always had many strategies. Surely you can handle this as well."

    "It seems that my master wants to test me."

    "It''s a test for you. There are noplicated rtionships like sects here. I''m in charge. If you can''t handle it, it can only mean you''re not capable."

    "Okay, I ept this challenge. It couldst for three months at the shortest, or half a year at the longest. This stronghold will be named Zhang."

    Lin Jiang dly epted. He used to be a dormitory leader, with three or four brothers under hismand. He was confident he could handle these people.

    "Shuhua, and what about you?"

    "If my junior brother is so confident, how can I not be?"

    "Alright, this Wilderness stronghold will be the battleground for the three of us. Let''s win this battle here first, and then we can slowly fight back when we go back."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded, full of determination at this moment, determined to achieve something significant.

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148

    Wilderness, the stronghold of the Five Elements Sect

    The stronghold of the Five Elements Sect is more like a city than a stronghold. Its diameter is over a kilometer, and the poption has exceeded ten thousand. It has everything that should be in a city.

    The management style is simr to that of Medicine City. They follow a set of rules that are not rted to the sect system. Chen Xuanhua is the City Lord, Zhang Wanjing is the Deputy City Lord, and Lin Jiang is currently the Chief Administrator, responsible for all the businesses in the stronghold.

    This is a legitimate and important position, a position of power that only those trusted by the City Lord can hold.

    At the beginning of his term, Lin Jiang didn''t make any changes. He silently observed how the Five Elements Sect''s base operated.

    After a while, Lin Jiang finally understood what was going on. The business environment at the base was quiteplex.

    The first thing he noticed was the Five Elements Sect''s own shops, which sold pills, talismans, tools, formations, food, cloth, taverns, and inns. All these were managed by apany called Xingyuan Building, which was simr to a state-owned enterprise.

    In addition to Xingyuan Building, there were other shops affiliated with the Five Elements Sect. They followed the sect to make money. Xingyuan Building was directly under the control of the sect and didn''t need to pay taxes, while the affiliated shops enjoyed some tax reductions.

    Apart from that, there were other shops and stalls that were moreplicated. Some were small forces, some were independent cultivators, and others were secretly set up by members of the sect. Lin Jiang was responsible for managing all of them."Though small, it has everything."

    Lin Jiangmented that the Five Elements Sect''s base was like a miniature version of Medicine City. It had everything that Medicine City had.

    After understanding the situation, Lin Jiang didn''t make any big changes immediately. He just reviewed the base''s ount books stored over the years and got closer to a few lower-level stewards.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Three months have passed, both of you tell me, what have you learned individually?"

    In the blink of an eye, Zhang Wanjing and his apprentices had been at the base for three months. Zhang Wanjing finally asked about their progress.

    "The guarding team has been dealt with. I taught a few troublemakers a lesson and sent them to patrol outside the city."

    Zhang Shuhua spoke first. He is now in the middle stage of building foundations. He challenged and defeated several experts in thete stage of building foundations, and then sent them to patrol outside the city.

    Both inside and outside of the base, there are guarding teams patrolling. However, it''s tough outside the base. Besides enduring harsh weather conditions, it''s also dangerous. It''s nothing like thefort inside the city.

    Now Zhang Shuhua has control over the guarding teams. In their positions, personal strength is highly valued. Without strength, they won''t be able to keep their subordinates in check.

    "What about Xiao Yi?"

    "He hasn''t made any moves, but I have gathered all the evidence against them. We are waiting for our master to deal with it."

    "Tell me the details."

    Inside the stronghold, thergest business is called Ju Yuan Lou, which can be said to dominate about 60% of all the business. It is very prosperous, but the biggest problem arises from Ju Yuan Lou.

    How should I put it, it''s about corruption. They eat and drink for free, buy low and sell high, confuse their responsibilities. If the master wants to rectify the situation, I can guarantee that the stronghold''s ie will increase by about 30% this year.

    "30%, you''re not tricking me again, are you?"

    When Zhang Wanjing was at Cold Crow Mountain, he also encountered a situation where the sect leader boasted about increasing production by 30%, almost tricking him.

    "Master, am I that kind of person?"

    "Alright, I''ll trust you once more. Do you have any evidence?"

    "Yes, as soon as I took office, I sealed the ount books. I have gone through them thoroughly for the past few months. Based on these ount books, all those stewards and such should be sent to the Law Enforcement Hall."

    "Give the evidence to Shu Hua, arrest people ording to the evidence, and don''t let anyone escape."

    "No, no, no, this kind of thing is a conspiracy. If we really start arresting people, all of them should be taken away. I suggest we prioritize arresting the leaders and let the subordinates go. Otherwise, I will have no one left to use."

    Lin Jiang said. The Five Elements Sect''s base is far from the mountain gate, which means it''s really far away. It''s beneficial for us to share the workload. If we were to be strict, there wouldn''t be anyone left to do the work.

    "Okay, we can prioritize capturing the important ones and release the less important ones. However, anyone with rtionships inside the sect should be removed. We need to make sure that only our people remain."

    "That means we will drive away about half of the people. The master will have to request more people from the sect, otherwise we won''t be able to operate."

    "That''s not a problem."

    "Great, Brother, wait for me to visit my home."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He had been ying the role of a smiling tiger for the past three months, and now it was time to show his fangs.

    That evening, Zhang Wanjing and Zhang Shuhua took action. They went door-to-door with their team, capturing most of the high-level members of the business.

    The next morning, Lin Jiang gathered the remaining high-level members of the business for a meeting. Half of the seats were empty. Lin Jiang looked at the remaining people, and they all seemed uneasy, as if there were nails on their chairs.

    "Don''t worry, everyone. The ones we needed to capture were already capturedst night. If you can still sit here today, it means everything is fine."

    "Boss, we..."

    I won''t dwell on the past, but from now on, I have the final say here. Things must be done ording to my rules. The restaurant and inn are major problem areas. Remember, from now on, anyone whoes to eat or stay must pay, even if it''s a senior member of the sect. If someone refuses to pay, let me know.

    Also, for those in charge of renting houses and the business section, make it clear which areas and prices are involved. Charge ordingly...

    Lin Jiang continued. There are many issues within the base, such as disciples from the Five Elements Sect whoe here and need amodation. But most of the amodations aren''t that great, so they end up staying at restaurants and inns without paying.

    The same goes for meals. They eat and drink excessively under the pretense of it being covered by the sect. The shops in the business section are also a mess. The pricing for good and bad locations varies greatly, and they have the power to set the prices. They randomly set prices, and those with connections can get prime locations at prices several times lower than neighboring ones.

    I don''t need to say more about the other methods they use to embezzle money. They really know how to y dirty and make a profit.

    "If any of you still disagree, you can lodge aint with the sect. I will handle it. If that doesn''t work, we can settle it with a demonstration. After all, as cultivators, strength is what matters most."

    "We dare not."

    "If you''re too scared, then go back to work. The new appointment list for each branch''s steward''s promotion to manager remains the same."

    Lin Jiang took out a list, and most of the people arrestedst night were the managers of various shops. Today, the stewards from before were promoted, and a group of low-ranking officials also received significant promotions.

    These low-ranking officials used to be lower-level staff. Lin Jiang has been working on persuading them for the past few months. Now, he is promoting them to the middle level. Once they are familiar with the business, he will get rid of the current managers and let them take over. This is now a transitional phase.

    Lin Jiang told everyone to disperse and do their own work. As soon as he stepped out, he saw someone he knew waiting for him.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, oh no, Senior Brother Xiao, Senior Brother Xiao, it''s me, Yue Qing."

    When Yue Qing saw Lin Jiange out, he warmly greeted him.

    "Howe Senior Brother Yue is here?"

    Lin Jiang pretended to be amazed, even though he had known that Yue Qing was here for a long time.

    Previously, Zhang Wanjing wanted to bring about reforms, so Lin Jiang cut off all his business cooperation with him. However, the reforms didn''t happen, and Zhang Wanjing was also marginalized. Without Lin Jiang providing information, Yue Qing couldn''t continue his business here.

    In the following years, Yue Qing disappeared from the gate of the mountains. It was said that he went out to explore. At first, Lin Jiang didn''t know where he had gone, but aftering to the stronghold, he found out.

    Yue Qing, this kid started doing business in a brothel. He has everything that a brothel should have, but Yue Qing''s brothel is quite low-end, only a little better than the ones on the street. Lin Jiang is used to elegance, so he finds themon ones unbearable. He took a nce and ran away.

    "Oh no, I''ve been here for several years. I just came back from the mountain gate recently and didn''t know that Senior Brother hade. Otherwise, I would have greeted Senior Brother earlier."

    "Does Senior Brother Yue need something?"

    "I''m here to pay my respects to Senior Brother. Take care of your junior brother in the future, as we''ve slept together for three years as brothers."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Can we not mention that?"

    "Senior Brother, have you forgotten about your junior brother?"

    Yue Qing made a very sad expression and said. We promised to be prosperous together and not forget each other. It''s only been a few years, and you''ve already forgotten.

    "Stop it, don''t you realize where we are?"

    "That''s right, let''s go to my junior brother''s ce."

    "Let''s go eat, you can skip your fancy Chunfeng Tower, it''s toomon."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, Yue Qing''s brothel is called Chunfeng Tower, sounds nice but it''s actually quite ordinary inside.

    "Alright, let''s eat, I''ll invite Jiang Shu, he''s also here."

    Yue Qing was thrilled, Zhang Wanjing is currently in charge of the stronghold, this is a big connection, he must hold onto it tightly.

    Before long, Jiang Shu arrived too. The many sworn brothers of Yue Qing in the past, only Jiang Shu managed to build a foundation and follow in Yue Qing''s footsteps. The rest had failed, they were too old and couldn''t venture out with him. They were all doing small business at the mountain gate or in Medicine City.

    For example, the lunch boxes they used to make, they are still continuing. Of course, they couldn''t make as much profit as the Medicine Conference did. They sell a few hundred or a thousand portions a day, earning just enough for their living expenses.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, it''s been many years since west met."

    "Jiang Junior Brother, it''s been many years too. How is it at this stronghold?"

    "Not bad, better than Medicine City. As long as we don''t go out, it''s still safe."

    Jiang Shu said that the stronghold is very safe, and the monster beasts can''t get in. Other cultivators dare not provoke the disciples of Five Elements Sect.

    "That''s fine."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, our Chunfeng Tower may not be to your liking, but it''s good here in the Wilderness. Other people don''t mind, and we make quite a lot of money every month. Otherwise, Senior Brother Xiao, would you like to invest?"

    Yue Qing said that the quality of his Chunfeng Tower area is not great, it''s mostly a group of old folks, but they really make a lot of money. Prices are much higher than in Medicine City.

    Because this is the Wilderness, cultivators whoe here to hunt monsters have to face great mental pressure. Monster beasts, poisonous insects, and toxic vapors could be deadly at any time. Other cultivators are also a huge threat, so once they return to the stronghold to rest, they must go to two ces - a tavern to drink, and a brothel to vent.

    Unfortunately, the Wilderness is dangerous, and many people are too afraid toe here, so the quality here is also very poor.

    "Forget about investing."

    Lin Jiang directly refused, as he believed himself to be hypocritical. He could enjoy listening to music asionally, but he couldn''t manage that kind of business himself.

    "What kind of thing does Senior Brother want? Junior Brother will get it for you."

    Yue Qing clenched his teeth and reluctantly epted, even if it meant spending a lot of money to have two people serve his senior brother.

    "What kind do you want, Senior Brother Yue? Have you heard of someone powerful named Qiang Ni from Medicine City?"

    "Who is Qiang Ni?"

    "He opened a new banquet hall called Pce Banquet. It''s said to be amazing! With a touch of elegance, like feathers coated in colorful haze, it won''t attract any unwanted attention. Oh, it''s really something!"

    "Senior Brother, what is all this?"

    Yue Qing looked confused. Has he been away from Medicine City for too long? He couldn''t understand.

    "Since we have nothing to do today, let''s go and check it out ourselves. Then you''ll understand what''s considered ssy and what''s considered vulgar. I won''t say much more, I won''t say much."

    Lin Jiang once again pretended to be mysterious, sessfully changing the topic. The two of them didn''t know what else to say.

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149

    Wilderness, the base of the Five Elements Sect.

    Lin Jiang opened the Spirit Beast Bag, and Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao flew out instantly. They circled in the sky for a few rounds, enjoying the taste of freedom, before flying back to Lin Jiang''s side.

    "Brother, brother..."

    Big Shadiao nudged Lin Jiang with its mouth, indicating that it wanted to go back to the Spirit Beast Bag. They had gotten used to it over the years, and Lin Jiang could only asionally let them have some time out.

    This made Lin Jiang feel a bit sad. The Aurora falcon is one of the rulers of the sky. They should be soaring in the sky, not hiding in the narrow Spirit Beast Bag.

    "I have three days off, and during these three days, you are free. Fly wherever you want to go."

    Lin Jiang stroked Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao a few times. He took three days off to go hunting monsters in the Wilderness and give Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao some freedom.

    Small Shadiao gave Lin Jiang a disdainful look and then flew away pping its wings. Big Shadiao stayed with Lin Jiang for a while longer before flying away.

    After Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao left, Lin Jiang put on his superb quality equipment and headed towards the deep Wilderness to hunt monsters. The environment in the Wilderness is like a tropical rainforest, with towering trees, snakes, insects, rats and ants everywhere, and various colors of miasma.These poisonous gases are very dangerous. They can even corrode the aura of cultivators, causing many cultivators to die from them every year.

    Of course, the most dangerous things in the Wilderness are the monsters and other cultivators. There are a lot of monsters in the Wilderness, constantly being killed, but they keep reappearing. They might be ordinary beasts turning into monsters, or they might have migrated from other ces.

    There are also many cultivators in the Wilderness. Arge number of independent cultivatorse here from all over Yun State to take risks. If they''re lucky, they can earn more in a year here than in other ces in ten years.

    Naturally, there are cultivators who target other cultivators as well. After all, killing cultivators is much simpler than killing monsters.

    Here, even disciples of sects face the same danger. Independent cultivators are not afraid of whether you are a disciple of a sect or not. They can kill you and in no time, the scent of blood will attract monsters. They can devour your bonespletely, leaving no trace behind.

    Lin Jiang has never hunted monsters in the Wilderness before, so he is being very cautious. However, being too cautious has resulted in half a day passing by without seeing anything at all.

    "Brother, brother!"

    Big Shadiao has returned, throwing down a monster snake thicker than Lin Jiang and calling him brother.

    "What''s up?"

    "Eat, eat, eat."

    "What''s up, do you want to roast it or make snake soup?"

    "Soup, soup, soup."

    "Snake soup is too troublesome, let''s roast it."

    Lin Jiang directly refused, snake soup is too troublesome, he wouldn''t do it.

    Finding a t ground, Lin Jiang set up a defense formation, and then found some branches to skin and bone the demon snake.

    "This second-grade inferior demon snake, snake skin, snake gall, snake fangs, and snake venom are all valuable things, worth at least hundreds of spirit stones."

    "That''s right, how could I forget about them, I don''t know how to hunt, but Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao do."

    Lin Jiang finished dismantling the demon snake, pped his forehead, how could he forget about this, he doesn''t know how to hunt demons, but Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao do, hunting is their instinct.

    "Big Shadiao, go find your little brother and tell him there''s snake meat to eat here, roasted, but you have to bring back prey in exchange, no prey, no food."

    "Eat, eat, eat."

    Big Shadiao flew away pping his wings.

    Two hourster, both Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao came back at the same time, each bringing back prey. Lin Jiang didn''t recognize the prey that Big Shadiao brought, but it was also a second-order prey. The prey that Small Shadiao brought back was a snake. It seemed that the birds preferred to eat snakes, just like humans prefer certain foods.

    "Easily got thousands of spirit stones."

    "Isn''t this job easy?"

    "No, now Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are the workers. Come on, Shadiao, work hard all day, all week, all year. Next year, I will find you a sister-inw."

    Lin Jiang looked at Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao with a gentle gaze. They were such good work birds, trustworthy and obedient, never scheming or arguing with the boss. They only wanted their boss to buy a vi and find a sister-inw.

    "Brother, brother, eat."

    "Okay, it''s all yours."

    "Remember, when you eat meat, I just want a little bit of skin and fur, maybe a few ws. It''s alright if I suffer a little loss."

    Lin Jiang grinned and quickly threw the snake meat to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. The first snake weighed at least a few hundred pounds, and Lin Jiang gave it all to them.

    The main problem was that he didn''t bring any seasoning, so the taste was too fishy. He couldn''t eat it.

    This amount of snake meat wasn''t enough for them. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao are at the third level and have huge appetites. Lin Jiang couldn''t satisfy them with just monster meat anymore. Either he needed the Inedia Pill or the Demon Core, but the Demon Core was too expensive and Lin Jiang couldn''t afford to buy so many. He only gave them one every few years.

    But even so, Lin Jiang''s expenses on them exceeded his own expenses. Over the past two hundred years, Lin Jiang had no idea how many resources he had invested in them.

    Now, it was time for them to repay Lin Jiang.

    "I''ll keep grilling, non-stop for three days and three nights. You guys keep going to catch prey, so you can eat your fill."

    Lin Jiang kept persuading, and Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao thought it made sense. They pped their wings and went off to hunt again.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Boss"

    At Xingyuan Building, the storekeeper saw Lin Jiang and smiled in a friendly way.

    "I''m not here to inspect your work today, you''ve been working hardtely, and I know it."

    "Thank you, Boss."

    "Here are some monster materials, take a look and call an appraiser to identify them. If the price is right, we can sell them."

    Lin Jiang took out a storage bag filled with monster materials. In three days, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao worked hard and caught more than twenty monsters for him.

    "Yes, Boss."

    The storekeeper quickly summoned an appraiser to identify the materials. He himself carefully apanied Lin Jiang and talked about the matters of Xingyuan Building. Even if he didn''t report his work, when the leaderes, he must show some performance, right?

    After two hours, the appraiser gave a price of twenty-five thousand spirit stones. This price is fixed, and if Xingyuan Building doesn''t do any further processing or sell the materials, they will almost certainly lose money onbor costs or something simr.

    Lin Jiang didn''t hesitate and epted the spirit stones directly. This is not against the rules, it''s just a benefit for disciples of the sect. Cao Ying also had the same privilege when she was at the Zhonghang Sect outpost, which is why she was able to buy a house in Yunzhong City in such a short time.

    "Junior Brother, where have you been these past few days?"

    On the way home, I ran into Zhang Shuhua. He was honestly leading a patrol and it was his leadership style of leading by example that allowed him to quickly win the hearts of the guards. It wasn''t just by force that he subdued them.

    "I went hunting demons in the wilderness. I''m on duty tonight, soe over to my ce for a few drinks."

    "Be careful since you''ve never hunted demons before."

    "How can the mere wilderness block my path? Within ten thousand miles, I feel like I''m in an uninhabitednd, unstoppable and invincible."

    Lin Jiang suddenly felt full of confidence. Beyond the Five Elements Sect, within ten thousand miles, there are only creatures of the fourth rank or lower. With the skills of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, they can be invincible. Of course, it''s not impossible for a fourth-rank creature to appear.

    But this is just bragging, of course they have to be a little impressive.

    "Junior, you..."

    "Stop talking. Juste to my house tonight."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. The meat of some magical beasts was delicious and expensive. He kept it for himself and didn''t give any to Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    After finishing his shift at night, Zhang Shuhua brought a jar of wine to Lin Jiang''s residence. As soon as he entered, heined. The prices in this stronghold are at least fifty percent higher than in Medicine City. The price of this spiritual wine has doubled, it''s insane.

    "This is the Wilderness, so higher prices are normal."

    "Is it a little expensive? I feel like doing business too!"

    "Why not?"

    Lin Jiang said. I really want to do some business. Now that we control the stronghold, I don''t even need to break the rules. I can make big money just by doing some business. Who wouldin about having too much money?

    "No, my father won''t allow us to make money by abusing our authority. Otherwise, how are we any different from those people in the sect?"

    "What my senior brother said is right, I just mentioned it casually."

    Lin Jiang smiled and Zhang Shuhua didn''t want to, he didn''t insist either, but he definitely wanted to make money himself. Without making money, with his qualifications, how could he afford to buy the elixirs?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Lin Jiang quickly changed the subject and didn''t mention this matter. He talked about other things. ording to Lin Jiang''s idea, this matter was not important. Zhang Wanjing was far away and could have control over the Five Elements Sect''s base. This opportunity shouldn''t be wasted.

    It''s not only about finding treasures in the Wilderness that could help him reach the Nascent Soul stage, but most importantly, he needed to cultivate a group of trustworthy subordinates. Just the two of them were not enough. It would be best if these subordinates were deeply involved in all aspects of the Five Elements Sect.

    This statement made Zhang Shuhua very interested. Now, in his life goals, cultivating to achieve immortality ranked second, while the first was to assist his father and fulfill his father''s life ideals.

 Chapter 150

    Chapter 150

    The Wilderness, the Five Elements Sect''s base

    Yue Qing and Jiang Shu were visiting Lin Jiang''s residence for the first time. Looking at the spacious courtyard, they were quite envious. The rent inside the base was outrageous, and they couldn''t afford such a spacious yard.

    This was still under the discounted rate for being disciples of the Five Elements Sect. Of course, they could also stay at the sect''s guesthouse, but the environment there was very poor.

    "Senior Brother Xiao"

    "Senior Brother Xiao"

    The two of them greeted Lin Jiang, who was now their senior fellow student.

    "Senior Brother YueгмSenior Brother Jiang"

    Lin Jiang just exchanged pleasantries, a simple greeting without too much formality.

    "What did Big Brother Xiao call us here for?""I have a business proposition that I want to coborate with you on."

    "Wow, thank you Big Brother Xiao for your guidance."

    When Yue Qing heard this, he became extremely happy. It was not in vain that he had been trying so hard to ingratiate himself. Finally, he had gained a powerful ally.

    "Brother Xiao is willing to invest in my Chunfeng Tower. I am willing to give him a 30% stake."

    "Brother Yue, I''m really not interested in your Chunfeng Tower. Let''s not talk about this."

    "So what other business can Brother Xiao do? Is it buying resources for cultivation? It''s not impossible, but it requires a lot of capital to make it work."

    Yue Qing doesn''t mind, as long as there are other opportunities for cooperation and making money.

    "In the stronghold, what sells the best?"

    "Well, everything sells well in the stronghold. Cultivation pills, healing potions, offensive and defensive spiritual talismans, shields, armor, swords. Even battle formations for warning, trapping, and killing enemies. Anything sells well."

    "But we can''tpete with the sect. They already dominate most of the market. We can at most make a small profit."

    "Apart from all that, there''s cloth, women, and alcohol. These three things sell the best. The magical robes are sturdy but not everyone can afford them. Many people still wear regr clothes and it''s normal for them to get ruined after a trip. Beautiful women and good wine, on the other hand, are popr everywhere. Don''t underestimate the women in my Chunfeng Tower, they bring in a lot of business. Those independent cultivators work hard outside and need to unw?nd when theye back."

    "The profit margin for cloth is very low, and we have no channels for magical robes. So let''s focus on selling good wine."

    Lin Jiang replied that he was not interested in Chunfeng Tower and didn''t know what Yue Qing kept mentioning it for.

    "We can do the business of spiritual wine, but we need arge quantity. Can Senior Brother find someone who can provide spiritual wine?"

    "Yes, we can brew it ourselves."

    "Brew it ourselves?"

    "Yes, on the mountain gate side, Zheng Yi and his son have always been in contact with me. I can ask Zheng Yi to collect spiritual paddy and low-level spiritual herbs for us. The sect will have flying boatsing and going every month. I will establish this connection. Once we have the spiritual paddy and herbs, you can arrange for people to brew the wine. I don''t need very high-end spiritual wine, just an ordinary quality will do. As long as we sell it quickly, we can make a lot of money."

    Lin Jiang said that others couldn''t do this task, at least Yue Qing couldn''t. Because the sect is very far from the Wilderness base, it would be very dangerous for individuals to travel back and forth. There''s a high risk of robbery.

    But Lin Jiang could take advantage of the sect''s transportation. The sect sends arge batch of supplies to the base every month, including their daily necessities and goods from Xingyuan Building. Lin Jiang can easily use this opportunity to transport goods from the base.

    "If Senior Brother Xiao can establish this connection, then there will be great potential. I can''t promise anything else, but getting a few thousand spirit stones every month will be like ying around."

    Yue Qing replied that earning over ten thousand spirit stones in a year is already a significant amount. Many people in the Building Foundation Period only earn this much in a year. And this is just one part of their business. Yue Qing believed that Lin Jiang wouldn''t just focus on this one business.

    "A thousand spirit stones aren''t enough. With my connections, I can''t earn more than thirty to fifty thousand spirit stones in a year, that would be pure loss."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, is this really a big deal? Just finding a ce for brewing alcohol is already a challenge."

    "The brewing workshop will be located outside the stronghold. I will use a third-order formation to deal withmon dangers, and I will also have the guard team focus on clearing nearby monsters. If there are any golden core or third-order monsters attacking, I will ask for help from skilled experts."

    Lin Jiang said. By cing the brewing workshop in the stronghold, we can reduce costs significantly. As for safety, he can guarantee it. Lin Jiang can also utilize some of the stronghold''s resources.

    "If what Senior Brother Xiao said is true, then this can really be done."

    "That''s just one aspect of it. We can do other businesses within my authority as long as it''s not against the rules. We can earn as much as possible. I need to prepare for the Foundation Establishment stage. Do you understand what I mean?"

    Lin Jiang said. This is also because of Zhang Wanjing''s face. He has restrained himself a lot. Otherwise, those people from the Five Elements Sect would not be his match. His methods for making money are quite impressive.

    "Understood. So, what about the shares?"

    "I will take sixty percent, and the remaining forty percent will be divided amongst all of you. Don''t think I''m taking too much. I will have to put in more effort than you can imagine. I need to establish connections, make acquaintances, and I''m even risking being punished by the sect."

    Lin Jiang answered, why should he do so much when there is not enough benefit? Isn''t it better to just rx?

    "If it''s enough, it''s enough. Can you please help me with the Chunfeng Tower matter, Senior Brother?"

    "Senior Brother Yue, why are you staring at Chunfeng Tower?"

    "Ahem, well, um..."

    "Let me exin. Senior Brother Yue and his sweetheart are the owners of Chunfeng Tower."

    Jiang Shu said on the side, and Yue Qing quickly covered his mouth, telling him to stop talking.

    "Sweetheart, Yue Qing, don''t touch him. What does that mean, exin clearly."

    "It''s just a matter of fact. Senior Brother Yue has a sweetheart in Medicine City, who used to be a girl from Sweet Red Building named Sister Hua. As she got older and no one chose her, she was kicked out by Sweet Red Building. Senior Brother Yue met Sister Hua, who used her savings from several decades to open Chunfeng Tower. Now, the girls at Chunfeng Tower are all Sister Hua''s sisters."

    "Jiang Shu, I willpete with you."

    "Don''t make a fuss, how old is Sister Hua?"

    "He''s only a few years younger than Senior Brother Yue, not even sixty yet, in the Qi Refining Period."

    "Let''s have a duel, Jiang Shu."

    Yue Qing went crazy. They exposed his secrets in front of everyone. Is that interesting?

    Lin Jiang was stunned. A Qi Refining Period practitioner at the age of fifty or sixty. Then it shouldn''t be called Sister Hua anymore, but Grandma Hua. I couldn''t tell. Yue Qing actually likes this.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Two kilometers outside the Five Elements Sect headquarters, this is the patrol limit of the headquarters guard team. But Lin Jiang has already greeted the guard team. They will take care of this ce during their daily patrols, and they will also try their best to eliminate the nearby monsters. As a thank you, Lin Jiang promised them to speak highly of them in front of Zhang Shuhua and have them transferred back to the headquarters.

    "Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation"

    "Five Elements Shock Killing Formation, they are all the work of masters. Senior Brother Xiao is really willing to spend money."

    Yue Qing watched as Lin Jiang set up the formations and said to Jiang Shu. These two formations are both at the third level, and they are not ordinary formations. They must be expensive.

    "The cost of these two formations exceeds 100,000 spirit stones. It seems that Senior Brother Xiao really wants to stay in this stronghold. Wasn''t Martial Uncle Zhang looked down upon by the higher-ups?"

    "Even if Martial Uncle is not favored, his cultivation is here. We just need to stick close to him and seek his protection."

    "What Senior Brother said is right. As disciples with no backing, it''s already good enough if we can find someone to rely on."

    Jiang Shu said. What do we have to do with the internal politics of the sect? As long as we have someone to protect us and make money, we''re fine.

    "I have invested a lot this time, Jiang Shu. From now on, this ce will be in your hands. You must guard it well."

    "Senior Brother, rest assured. With these two formations, we have no worries below the golden core level. And above the golden core, we still have Senior Brother Xiao."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "That''s right, that''s right."

    Yue Qing said, while others may be in danger here, they won''t be. With the protection of the formations and reinforcements to call upon, everything is worry-free.

    "I have set up the formation. Here is the control token for the formation. I have already sent a message back to the sect. Next month, we will receive medicine and spiritual paddy. We will also get brewing tools. You will be in charge of brewing, but don''t mess it up."

    "Don''t worry, senior brother. We can''t find a master brewer, but we can definitely handle it at an average level. Senior brother, just wait to collect the money."

    "Alright, from now on, I won''t be able to go out easily. If you need anything,e to my house."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He also had to lead by example and couldn''t just run around freely. He had a lot of things to take care of every day.

    After Lin Jiang gave them instructions, he left immediately. He had already taken care of the most important things and left the rest to Yue Qing and the others. If they couldn''t handle these small matters, they didn''t deserve to work with him.

 Chapter 151

    Chapter 151

    Wilderness, Base of the Five Elements Sect

    When the sect''s logistics airship arrived, Lin Jiang quickly went up to greet them with his people. A familiar disciple gave Lin Jiang a signal and quietly handed him a package. Inside were eightrge storage bags containing things that Lin Jiang needed.

    A group of disciples in the Qi Refining Period stepped forward and started unloading things from the airship. Low-level resources took up too much space, so they were just piled up instead of being put in storage bags. Only valuable items were packed in storage bags.

    "Grand Manager, the supplies are confirmed to be correct."

    Someone on the side counted and eventually handed Lin Jiang a document to sign. As the person in charge, if the count was incorrect, it was Lin Jiang''s responsibility.

    "Alright, unload the cargo."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, and then the group of disciples moved bag after bag of supplies from the ground onto the airship. These were all collected resources from the base, mainly materials from demonic beasts, as well as arge amount of spiritual medicine, ore, and so on. After returning to the sect, there would be people who would refine them further to create weapons, pills, and many other items to make a huge profit.

    "Xiao Manager, the supplies are confirmed to be correct. Let''s sign together."

    "Okay, will Senior Brothere next month?""Yes, I will being for the next three years."

    "That would be great, let''s have a pleasant cooperation."

    Lin Jiang took out a small storage bag and stuffed it into his sleeve. From now on, he could carry it for a long time, and not just simple spiritual paddy, but also other things.

    After a while, Lin Jiang appeared outside the base, where Yue Qing and others were already waiting. The winery workshop was not crowded now, there were only three masters and nine assistants. Jiang Shu was in charge of security, and there were less than twenty people in total.

    "When can we start producing wine at the earliest?"

    "In just two weeks."

    "Alright, let''s wait for two weeks then. Work hard, we won''t let you down."

    "Thank you, Chief."

    "Senior Brother Yue, you keep watch. I''ll go first."

    Lin Jiang left supplies and quickly departed. He had to go back to work because there were many things to do during the day.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Master, you called for me?"

    On that day, Lin Jiang received a message from Zhang Wanjing and came to visit him.

    "I heard you mischievous boy. What trouble are you causing now?"

    "No, I''m a very honest person."

    "Isn''t the brewery outside the base yours?"

    "Yes, but is that against the rules?"

    "Is it up to you to say whether it''s against the rules or not?"

    "Is it this dark?"

    Lin Jiang was speechless. This kind of talk was a bit unfair. Saying you broke the rules means you broke them, do we still need to talk about thew?

    "How far is this?"

    "Alright, Master, just say it straight. If you want some shares, it''s not impossible."

    "As a master, I don''t think much of your small achievements. But well, it''s not impossible to do something else."

    "What does Master want to do?"

    "I know everything you''ve said to Shuhua. You''re right. Your ideas have been right from the beginning. That''s why I want to follow your method - first, umte wealth, then gather people. Only by doing so can we n for something big."

    Zhang Wanjing said, ever since he was instructed by the sect master to make changes, he has made one mistake after another. And every time, Lin Jiang gave different opinions, but he didn''t listen. Now, looking back, he deeply regrets it.

    So now Zhang Wanjing also understands that he needs to be more flexible in his actions and not be so rigid.

    "Master, we cannot go against the rules of the sect."

    "I didn''t say we should go against the rules of the sect. Can''t we find another way?"

    "There are other ways, but we don''t have enough people. My disciples have low cultivation levels, so there are many things they can''t do."

    "You may not have enough people, but I do."

    "Master, isn''t it just the two of us as disciples?"

    There may only be two disciples, but there are many senior and junior disciples, as well as nephews. Honestly, after I was pushed out of the Internal Affairs Hall, the hall became chaotic. The people who can''t achieve anything are taking all the benefits.

    Before, when we were farming outside the sect, there was no hope. They were just watching. But now, things are different. I have control over this stronghold, and many people want to join me.

    Zhang Wanjing thought that this group of people was the only remaining disciples of the Five Elements Sect who were still willing to do meaningful work. Others were either just filling positions or living aimlessly.

    For the people carrying firewood, we must not let them freeze to death in the wind and snow. He wanted to save some energy for the Five Elements Sect, so he decided to help these people and find a way out for them.

    "Are there many people?"

    "There are dozens of them."

    "Are they strong?"

    "Their focus is on building foundations, and they currently have four golden cores."

    "That''s enough. With this power, they can definitely aplish things."

    "So, what ideas do you have?"

    "Let''s start anew, Master."

    "Start anew?"

    Yes, in Wilderness, making wine is just making some pocket money. The real moneyes from Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. And at the stronghold, no matter what we do, we can''t win against Xingyuan Building. This is a business backed by the whole sect. How can we win?

    So we start our own business, opening a stronghold directly in another ce. Independent cultivators gather in groups of three to five, daring to open strongholds. Why can''t we? Four Golden Core cultivators, dozens of Building Foundation cultivators, we are stronger than most small sects.

    Lin Jiang said. In the stronghold, no matter what they do, they have to follow the rules of the Five Elements Sect. It''s impossible to grow big there. We have to start our own business elsewhere.

    In Wilderness, there are countless small strongholds. Many independent cultivators and small sects will establish their own strongholds. Even though the reputation and safety are not as good as the strongholds of bigger sects like the Five Elements Sect, they still make a lot of money.

    "Establishing a stronghold by oneself is very dangerous. Do you know how many cultivators die in Wilderness every year?"

    "Master, risks and rewards go hand in hand. There''s no such thing as free lunch falling from the sky."

    "Let me think about it."

    "I think Master should ask for their opinions. If they are willing to take the risk, we shouldn''t stop them. Everyone has the right to choose."

    "Let''s take another look."

    Zhang Wanjing said that he didn''t know what these people were thinking and that he needed to see for himself first.

    Ten dayster, four disciples from the Five Elements Sect with golden cores arrived at the Wilderness base. They came not as part of a mission from the sect, but as individuals. Beforeing, they had resigned from all positions in the sect, keeping only their status as ordinary disciples.

    Zhang Wanjing warmly weed them, and as they drank, the four of them talked about sect matters. Before Zhang Wanjing left the sect, he used to fear no one and supervised the work at various branches of the Internal Affairs Hall. Their aplishments would be recognized as well.

    But after Zhang Wanjing left, things changed. They were still the ones doing the work, but when it came time to receive credit, it went to someone else. At first, they still believed that someone would speak up on their behalf, but after a few years, they felt disheartened.

    They didn''t want to be tainted by those people or act foolishly, so they resigned and decided to go out and make a name for themselves.

    "Senior Brother Zhang, please take us in and let us work with you."

    "Yes, Senior Brother Zhang, even though it might be tiring to work with you, it is exciting to get things done."

    "That''s right, we''re not greedy. We want to be paid ording to how much work we do. We are willing to contribute to the sect, but we won''t be foolish. Why do those people don''thing and get more than us? I refuse to ept it."

    "Junior brothers, don''t worry. One of my disciples has suggested something. I''m not sure if you would be interested."

    "Brother Zhang, please speak."

    "The four of you should build a separate stronghold outside, run it independently, and keep all the money you earn."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhang Wanjing said after considering for a few days, he thought this suggestion was feasible. The treasures for Nascent Soul cultivation in the Five Elements Sect are out of reach even for him, let alone others. The only way is to find a solution outside. No matter how you obtain it, sufficient financial resources are necessary.

    "Brother, Wilderness is not the sect. Working alone is very dangerous."

    "Yes, brother. Several golden core cultivators die in the Wilderness every year."

    "I know this is dangerous, but I have thought about it. This is your only hope to advance to Nascent Soul. The sect''s Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is out of the question for you, let alone for me. Even if there is one avable, you won''t have a chance to get it. The only opportunity lies outside, whether it''s seizing it from the depths of the Wilderness or finding a way in other states. Both require a lot of money. Your current sect allowance won''t be enough to cover your lifespan consumption."

    "Um..."

    The four of them hesitated immediately. Zhang Wanjing''s words made a lot of sense, but the Wilderness was truly dangerous. People die every day during the Foundation Building stage, and even golden core cultivators are not exempt from danger. It won''t be easy to earn that money.

    "Brother, I''m sorry, but I won''t go. Golden core cultivators can live for five hundred years, and I think that''s enough."

    "Senior brother, I''m willing to take a risk."

    "I''m also willing to take a risk."

    "I want to take a risk."

    The four people thought for a long time. One person quit, and the other three were willing to take a chance. Those independent cultivators in the Qi Refining Period and Building Foundation Period dared to survive in the dangerous Wilderness. They all have the same courage, and no one is afraid of anyone.

    "Junior Brother Wang doesn''t want to stay in the Wilderness, but we can support the three junior brothers in Medicine City. We need to recover the resources from the Wilderness and sell them. We also need people to support us in Medicine City. What do you think?"

    "Okay."

    "Alright, let''s discuss the detailster. It''s been many years since you''ve been to the Wilderness, and the situation has changed. Stay here for now and gather information before making specific ns."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. He also needed support from behind to convert the acquired resources and bring the whole operation together. If he could really aplish that, then money would be plentiful, and the meager pay from the sect would be insignificant.

    Finally, Spirit Qi started to disappear from this world. No one could cultivate for thousands of years and even tens of thousands of years. Mortals started to be the masters of the world, and science and technology began to develop. What will happen when the cultivators and demon beasts from the old times wake up in the new world of mortals? Can they withstand the power of nuclear weapons?

    The cover for book 13 of the xianxia (cultivation) novel "Cultivation: Being Immortal" sold on Amazon

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152

    Wilderness, a very deep ce.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua, along with twenty skilled workers called Building foundation, were traveling to the heart of Wilderness on a flying boat. Along the way, they could see countless magical beasts. Some were hiding in the darkness with frightening eyes, while others wererge in size and flying through the sky. There was danger lurking everywhere.

    "We''re only thirty miles away."

    Zhang Shuhuapared the map in his hand and said to Lin Jiang.

    "This ce is over three thousand miles away from the Five Elements Sect''s base. The courage of these Martial Uncles is bigger than I expected. This kind of frontier base, as long as we can hold on for twenty years, we will definitely make a fortune."

    Lin Jiang said. The idea of establishing a new base was his, but the courage of the three golden core members of the Five Elements Sect was greater than he expected because they chose the most advanced base.

    What is a frontier base? It is a base that goes deep into the territory of the magical n, with no human clearance around it. Magical beasts are everywhere. It may be directly established on the territory of a powerful magical beast and could be attacked at any time by magical beasts, or even by a beast tide.

    This kind of frontier base is very rare tost for thirty years because it is very dangerous. There is a possibility of being attacked by terrifying monsters, so only a few outcasts among the independent cultivators would choose to do so.

    "We don''t need 20 years, 5 years is enough. But as cultivators, we must fight against fate. How can we advance without taking a chance?""I regret giving this suggestion. Initially, I just wanted them to establish a base about a few hundred miles away from the Five Elements Sect''s stronghold."

    "A few hundred miles doesn''t matter much. Independent cultivators would rather travel a few hundred miles to our Five Elements Sect''s stronghold than go to a small base. Alright, we''re almost there."

    Zhang Shuhua casually said, then he activated a token. In front of them, a cloud of mist dispersed, revealing a golden core cultivator flying out.

    "Greetings, Martial Uncle Zou."

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua quickly bowed. This person is one of the three Martial Uncles with a golden core, Zou Yu.

    "Come in quickly."

    Zou Yu led the way, and their flying boat entered into the mist. As they went in, everything became clear. Inside, there was a mountain range with a building located on top. The terrain was very treacherous, difficult to attack but easy to defend.

    "Uncle Zou, it looks like we can open in half a month."

    "We''re just waiting for this batch of materials. We''ve been busy for two months and put all our resources into it. We''re relying on this gamble."

    Zou Yu said. Three months ago, he and three senior brothers came to Wilderness. Among them, three people epted Zhang Wanjing''s advice and established a frontier outpost after their careful investigation and decision to take a great risk.

    For more than two months after that, they were busy recruiting people and looking for a location for the outpost. In the end, they chose this ce, which used to be an abandoned frontier outpost. Many things were still here, so the amount of work was reduced a lot. Otherwise, it would have taken at least a year to establish.

    "Martial Uncle, the supplies have been delivered."

    "Does Senior Brother Zhang have anything else to say?"

    "My father said that if they encounter a strong enemy, they can retreat to the Five Elements Sect outpost. My father will send someone to help, even if it''s a fourth-level monster beast."

    "Senior Brother Zhang is thoughtful."

    "Martial Uncle Zou, what about the other two Martial Uncles?"

    Lin Jiang asked. There are a total of three Martial Uncles with golden cores. Besides Zou Yu, there are also Wei Yunshen and Yu Wanke.

    "They went to monitor a nearby group of third-level monster beasts. Once the outpost ispletely built, we will find a way topletely eliminate them. With that done, the outpost will be safe for the next three years."

    "Mighty Uncle"

    "Mighty my foot, we''ve been attacked by beasts hundreds of times in the past two months. It costs us a lot to maintain our formation. If we don''t kill them, we won''t be able to afford it."

    "Haha, Mighty Uncle is joking."

    "I''m not joking with you. Put down your things and leave quickly. There are many beasts here, don''t get attacked."

    "Okay."

    "So, young apprentice Xiao has set up a brewery in the Five Elements Sect''s stronghold, right?"

    "Yes, Mighty Uncle."

    "In the future, we''ll send a batch of supplies to Medicine City every month. Prepare a batch of spiritual wine, and I''ll pay you a normal price for it."

    "Thank you, Mighty Uncle, for taking care of the business."

    Lin Jiang quickly thanked him. This is called reciprocity. Actually, they could have bought it near Medicine City. The spiritual wine made by cultivators in remote viges is not expensive.

    "If we have wealth, let''s all share!"

    "Then we''ll leave first."

    "We won''t see you off, we''re too busy. Next time youe, I''ll treat you to demon beast meat."

    "Goodbye, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang and the others unloaded their supplies and quickly set up the flying boat to leave. Without the supplies, their speed increased, and they disappeared like a passing shadow, while the defensive formation of the headquarters closed swiftly.

    They moved quickly without encountering any demon beast attacks. That''s how the Wilderness is. If you keep moving, you rarely get attacked by demon beasts. But once you stop, there''s a chance of being targeted by them.

    The cultivators'' long years of hunting demons have created a deep-rooted enmity between them and the demon beasts. They can even draw their swords at each other with just a nce.

    And in the Wilderness, the biggest danger for cultivatorses from other cultivators. If they hadn''t been flying the Five Elements Sect''s g, they would have likely been attacked.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The first year at Wilderness Point has passed, and after conducting an audit, Zhang Wanjing found that this year''s ie has increased by over thirty percentpared to when they first arrived.

    "Xiao Yi, you did a great job."

    Zhang Wanjing called out Xiao Yi''s name, giving him credit for the increase in ie. It was mainly thanks to Xiao Yi''s efforts in putting an end to corrupt practices, such as free eating and drinking.

    "Master, what do you n to do with this money?"

    "This money belongs to the sect, so don''t even think about it."

    "It''s not about me having ideas, but about considering what''s best for the master."

    "Go ahead, tell me what nonsense you''vee up with."

    "Ahem, master, if the ie increased by thirty percent this year, what if the sect demands another thirty percent increase next year, and the year after that? Can the ie keep growing endlessly?"

    "No, but that''s not a reason for you to encourage me to keep the sect''s property for myself."

    "I didn''t say keep it for myself, we can distribute it to everyone, it''s called profit-sharing. Ask Senior Brother Zhang, how many cultivators have caused trouble in the past year, how many have been injured, and how many have stayed up all night guarding the stronghold. Does Master think the sect''s meager sry is worth working so hard for?"

    "That''s an absurd argument."

    "If it increases by more than thirty percent, we can contribute half or even one percent to the sect. Then we can distribute the remaining rewards to everyone based on merits. Everyone will be satisfied and feel that their hard work hasn''t been in vain. Isn''t that wonderful?"

    Lin Jiang continues to deceive; he understands how leaders work. If your performance increases by thirty percent this year, and only twenty percent next year, people might think you''re cking off and haveints about the sect. That won''t do. Next year, you must increase it by at least another thirty percent. The top makes the decision, and the bottom has to run tirelessly to achieve it; that''s how it works.

    "Father, Junior Brother makes a valid point. Among independent cultivators, there are some who earn more than the Martial Uncle guarding the stronghold. It makes people envious. If our ie doesn''t increase, no one will want to do this job anymore. They would rather take risks. The stronghold won''t be able to grow without higher ie. Only with higher ie can we attract people toe and guard it."

    "Shuhua, have you been bribed too?"

    "Of course not, I''m telling the truth."

    "But I can''t make the final decision."

    "Master can''t make the decision, but Martial Uncle Chen Xuanhua can. He''s one of the senior elders of the sect and also in charge of the base."

    Lin Jiang immediately said, this was also part of his calctions. Zhang Wanjing couldn''t handle the sect, but Chen Xuanhua could. He''s a Nascent Soul Elder, the highest level of the sect, and still has some authority.

    "Alright, I''ll discuss with Martial Uncle Chen. He''s currently at the base these days."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Zhang Wanjing said, since Chen Xuanhua arrived, he took charge of the base and had been there for less than a month. Now is the perfect time.

    The next day, Zhang Wanjing went to find Chen Xuanhua and told him about the matter.

    "Wanjing, how much money is there?"

    "If we keep 20 percent, we will have over two million spirit stones."

    "So many?"

    Chen Xuanhua was shocked. He had been guarding the stronghold for many years, but he had never paid attention to such things. After all, he wasn''t a specific steward.

    "The spirit stone won''t make mistakes."

    "Damn it, those bastards from before must have been pocketing it for themselves."

    "Martial Uncle, take a look."

    "We''ll split it. I want one million spirit stones, and you can split the rest. If the Sect Leader or other elders ask, I''ll take responsibility."

    "Is this against the rules?"

    "The rules of the Five Elements Sect are set by the elders, and I am one of the elders. Tell me, is it against the rules or not?"

    "Understood. In a few days, no, I''ll have it delivered this afternoon. Martial Uncle, please sign here first."

    "Stop being so talkative."

    Chen Xuanhua made ament. He''s really clever. I bet he won''t go back on his word. But he still signed it. One million spirit stones, that''s more than what he gets from hunting monsters.

    Zhang Wanjing saw Chen Xuanhua sign the paper and was very happy. Over a million spirit stones were left, and they would be divided ording to cultivation level and position. Zhang Wanjing would definitely get a lot. Chen Xuanhua nodded, this was a fair and legal ie.

    In the afternoon, news spread and the disciples of the Five Elements Sect in the stronghold became excited. However, Lin Jiang was in a difficult situation. He had to stay up all night to calcte how to divide it and how much each person would get.

    "Chen Xuanhua''s Martial Uncle has already taken his share. Now it''s our turn. The master will take 200,000 spirit stones for himself, and the rest will be divided into different tiers. The three town guardians, me, Zhang Shuhua senior brother, the leader of the guard team, and the manager of Xingyuan Building will be in the first tier. The rest of the Building foundation disciples will be in the second tier. The remaining disciples will be in the third tier, and the lowest tier will receive only 2,000 spirit stones. What do you think, master?"

    "How much can we get in the first tier?"

    "Around 120,000 spirit stones."

    "What about the rest?"

    "The second tier will get around 30,000 spirit stones, the third tier will get 15,000, and the fourth tier will only receive 2,000."

    "Isn''t the gap too big?"

    "Master, I have already calcted it. I have taken into ount the average annual ie of ordinary disciples. For example, an ordinary Building foundation disciple can earn around 10,000 spirit stones in a year in the sect, Medicine City, or other ces, if they don''t have skills like Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. The reward of 15,000 spirit stones is equivalent to an extra year''s ie. Whenbined with sry and other rewards, their actual ie will be three to five times higher than that of ordinary Building foundation disciples. This is already quite reasonable."

    "Okay, let''s do that. Leave a small amount leftover and we''ll have a meal together when we divide the money."

    "Yes, Master."

    Lin Jiang nodded. This year, he had a great harvest. His ie for the whole year had already exceeded three hundred thousand spirit stones, with one-third of it created by Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    Every month, Lin Jiang would take a break. It was a regr vacation. As soon as he took a break, he would go outside the base and release Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to hunt. While they ate meat, he would collect materials like fur, bones, and blood.

    "Wilderness, I''vee to the right ce."

    Lin Jiang sighed. With the support of the sect, there was not much danger, but his ie had skyrocketed. This time, he had made the right decision.

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153

    The deep wilderness.

    "Useless, all useless! If you can''t refine the Shengyuan Pill, I''ll eat all of you."

    A man shouted angrily at several cultivators, who cowered in fear and dared not resist. They faced the shape-shifting Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf King.

    Among the demon n, to be called a Demon King, one must be at least at the fourth rank. But even the fourth rank is not enough. They must have the strength to conquer other fourth-rank demon beasts and make them submit, only then can they be called a Demon King.

    The Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf King is the top Demon King in the Wilderness area, ruling over an area of tens of thousands of miles. It has more than ten fourth-rank demon beasts under itsmand.

    "Honorable Heavenly Wolf King, it''s not that we haven''t tried, but the Shengyuan Pill is a sixth-rank elixir. We are just ordinary alchemists and we really can''t refine it."

    A cultivator spoke with a forced brave face and said. Heavenly Wolf King, once had one of its ws severed by a human Nascent Soul cultivator. Although Heavenly Wolf King used a secret technique to grow a new w, it is unable to fully integrate with its Dao. Not only does it prevent it from exerting its full power, but it also affects its advancement.

    In retaliation, Heavenly Wolf King captured many human cultivators. From the mouths of these captives, Heavenly Wolf King learned that humans have an elixir called the Shengyuan Pill, which can regenerate severed limbs and make them exactly the same as before, without any problems.

    After that, Heavenly Wolf King began to capture cultivators on arge scale. Those who could refine pills were kept alive, while those who couldn''t were devoured. However, the problem was that the cultivators captured by Heavenly Wolf King were either at the Foundation Establishment or Golden Core stage. The most talented alchemists among them were only at the fourth rank and simply couldn''t refine a sixth-rank Shengyuan Pill. In Heavenly Wolf King''s rage, many cultivators were eaten."Then tell me, who can refine the Shengyuan Pill?"

    "Pill King Li Ruoxu, the Pill Hall Masters of the Five Elements Sect, Zhonghang Sect, and Cloud Sword Sect. Those four people can definitely refine it."

    "What cultivation level are all four of them?"

    "Nascent Soul stage"

    "Yuan..., I don''t care, if you can''t refine the Shengyuan Pill within three years, you will all die, my children are starving."

    The Heavenly Wolf King hesitated, he might not be able to defeat someone at the early stage of cultivating the Nascent Soul, so he could only continue roaring at them.

    "Heavenly Wolf King, I..."

    "Crying noisily."

    Before the person could say anything else, the Heavenly Wolf King pped him against the wall so hard that he couldn''t even move.

    The others felt even more like crying. The Heavenly Wolf King was the only fourth-level Alchemist among them, and now you have killed him. We won''t be able to refine the Shengyuan Pill anymore. We''re done for.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    Inside the base of the Five Elements Sect, Zhang Shuhua found Lin Jiang and asked for money.

    "No way, senior brother, are you asking me for money?"

    "I truly have no money left."

    "Where''s your money? Did you spend it on damaging Chunfeng Tower?"

    "No way, I''m not that kind of person."

    Zhang Shuhua spit disdainfully. From his perspective, could he appreciate those old constructions of Chunfeng Tower?

    "I understand now, you were also robbed by Master."

    "Even my dad borrowed money from you?"

    "He did."

    "How much do you want to borrow?"

    "Five hundred thousand spirit stones."

    "Why are you so rich?"

    Zhang Shuhua was shocked, unable to see that his junior apprentice brother was actually a wealthy person.

    "Rich my foot! Several years of savings, all taken by our master."

    Lin Jiang was speechless. In the blink of an eye, it was their fifth year in the Wilderness. Zhang Wanjing saw that Lin Jiang had earned a lot of money, so he came to borrow from him. Thankfully, Lin Jiang was clever and divided his wealth into several portions, otherwise he would have been drained.

    "You definitely still have money. Please lend me a little. I''ve spent all my money supporting my father''s medical treatment."

    "First, tell me, why is our master making so much money? It''s not like he wants to find you a second wife, does he?"

    "Nonsense, my father, sigh."

    "Don''t sigh, speak up, leave half of your words, there won''t be a partner in the future."

    "Without any surprises, my father is nning to attack the Heavenly Wolf King."

    "The Heavenly Wolf King, is the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, and my master wants to steal the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    Lin Jiang quickly realized that the Wilderness''s monster races basically choose mountain peaks with spiritual veins as their habitats, and mountain peaks with spiritual veins will inevitably give birth to spiritual herbs. The stronger the monster race, the stronger the spiritual veins they upy, and the more powerful the spiritual herbs they have.

    It''s no secret that the Heavenly Wolf King''sir has a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. It has long been known that this Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is an extremely precious treasure that can help a golden core cultivator increase their chances of forming a baby core and help Nascent Soul stage cultivators enhance their cultivation.

    The three overlords of the Yun State have all tried to covet this Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, but they have all failed. Apart from the fact that the Heavenly Wolf King is extremely powerful, another reason is that the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit has not matured yet. If it is moved recklessly, it could wither and die. Therefore, the three sects have not used their full strength to snatch it.

    "Yes, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. My father has just arrived at the base and has already started inquiring about it. There is already clear news that the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit will mature within five years."

    "Master has only achieved perfection in the golden core stage. Can he defeat the Heavenly Wolf King? Can he defeat other Nascent Soul cultivators? By then, all the Nascent Soul cultivators in the Yun State may mobilize, including the Five Elements Sect. But will the Nascent Soul cultivators of the Five Elements Sect support Master?"

    Lin Jiang raised several questions. The Nascent Soul cultivators of the Five Elements Sect, Zhang Wanjing has offended most of them, so it''s impossible to hope for their help. Just don''t cause trouble and drag us down.

    "I don''t know, I''m justying the groundwork, but my father definitely borrowed money from you for preparations."

    Zhang Shuhua said, his father had been away from the stronghold for over half a month, definitely nning something.

    "Besides a special symbol with my master''s real name, what other cards does he have?"

    "I don''t know, don''t keep asking me. I don''t know much, my father won''t tell me everything."

    "What about your mother, can she help?"

    "No, my mother''s family is just starting out, they have weak power."

    "Oh."

    Lin Jiang sighed heavily, once again hating his ownck of strength. Over the past few years, even though he had been consuming medicine like crazy, he still only had intermediate cultivation inying the groundwork, he couldn''t be of any help at all.

    It''s impossible to persuade Zhang Wanjing to give up. Zhang Wanjing came to the Wilderness for the chance to form a bond, how could he possibly give up when it''s right in front of him.

    "Don''t think too much, just take it step by step. We still have a few years ahead."

    "Can you achieve the Pill Formation stage within five years?"

    "I can reach theter stage of the Foundation Establishment stage."

    "You''re also worthless."

    "You..."

    "Why rush? I''m also worthless, there''s not much difference."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. In fact, Zhang Shuhua wasn''t considered worthless anymore. He had been in the Foundation Establishment stage for about ten years and was already close to theter stage. This speed was quite fast.

    The real worthless one was him. He had been cultivating for over two hundred years and was only in the middle stage of the Foundation Establishment stage. Even if he used the stic Bone Pill,pared to others, his talent was only average and couldn''t be considered a genius.

    Zhang Shuhua fell silent, feeling quite worthless and sad.

    "Here is the True Spirit Pill for you. Take it slowly and I''ll go now."

    Lin Jiang threw down two bottles of True Spirit Pill and quickly left.

    After a moment, he appeared in Chunfeng Tower, a stronghold. Sister Hua, Yue Qing''s old sweetheart, saw Lin Jiang and burst intoughter.

    "Sister Hua, I didn''te for fun. Where is Yue Qing?"

    Without waiting for her response, Lin Jiang immediately expressed his purpose. After spending years in the stronghold, Chunfeng Tower''s reputation had made him cautious.

    "He should be in the workshop outside."

    "Send someone to inform him. I have something important to discuss."

    "Is it something very important?"

    "Tell him toe back and arrange a room with some food and drinks."

    Lin Jiang casually said that he has visited Chunfeng Tower many times for meals. The girls here are not great, but the food is good.

    Two hourster, Yue Qing came back.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, what''s the rush?"

    "I want to discuss something with you. The workshop, inn, and other shops will change the way bonuses are divided. Instead of yearly, it will be every three months."

    Lin Jiang said that his coboration with Yue Qing is extensive. It''s not just one wine-making workshop, inn, and restaurant, but a total of more than ten stores dealing with the collection of rare beast and herbal materials. The annual bonuses amounted to nearly two hundred thousand.

    "Alright, let''s start dividing from this month."

    Yue Qing immediately agreed. He had understood Lin Jiang''s tone. Although it was a discussion, there was no room for doubt. His business within the stronghold relied entirely on Lin Jiang''s protection, or else he would have been taken advantage of a long time ago.

    "Do you still have connections in Medicine City?"

    "My ancestor is still in Medicine City."

    "Keep half of the earnings, ask your uncle to help collect Demon Cores. Take as many as you can from flying demon beasts."

    Lin Jiang said, in these past few years, he has been wealthy and has taken good care of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. He gives them each a Demon Core every year, worth around a hundred thousand in total. This is even more than his own expenses.

    But now, Lin Jiang is preparing for a sudden attack to see if he can push Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao to the fourth level. If they be fourth level demon beasts, they can help Zhang Wanjing.

    Lin Jiang is not doing this out of pure kindness, but because he knows that his business in the stronghold is actually thanks to Zhang Wanjing. If he wasn''t Zhang Wanjing''s personal disciple, people would have already targeted his profitable business. Would they let him, a mid-level building foundation cultivator, make money?

    Is being a mid-level building foundation cultivator powerful?

    Let Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao break through, it''s also risky because once the Master-servant Contract surpasses two major realms, the beast pet could potentially devour its owner. This kind of situation has happened many times in the cultivation world, but Lin Jiang is confident that Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao won''t do that because he personally hatched them and they have been together for over two hundred years.

    "Hey, Junior Brother, do you have a pet?"

    "Don''t ask about this matter, just do as you''re told."

    Lin Jiang said, he had always kept the matter of Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao a secret, even Zhang Wanjing didn''t know. But this time, he had to take the risk of exposure.

    "Yes, I understand."

    Yue Qing kept quiet. Junior Brother Xiao was not the same Junior Brother Xiao he used to sleep in the same courtyard with. This was dealing with higher-ups, so it was best to not ask too much.

    "How''s business this year?"

    Lin Jiang asked again. He needed to take stock of his wealth. In truth, he had made a fortune in these past few years.

    In the first year at the stronghold, his ie reached three hundred thousand spirit stones. It kept growing in the following years, already exceeding six hundred thousand spirit stonesst year. Even though Lin Jiang used a lot himself, he still managed to save a million spirit stones. Of course, half of it had been borrowed by Zhang Wanjing now.

    "Business is good. The dividends this year will be a little more."

    "Can the dividends reach three hundred thousand?"

    "It''s hard to say."

    "I changed my mind. Find a way to get me a fourth-grade Demon Core. If you can get it, I''ll give you a ten percent stake."

    Lin Jiang immediately said. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao want to breakthrough to the fourth level, but to surpass their bloodline limits, they must take strong medicine. The third level is probably not enough, they need a fourth level Demon Core.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, it''s almost impossible to find a fourth level Demon Core, right?"

    "You have a widework, why not ask around? Just in case."

    Lin Jiang said. Yue Qing''s business level hasn''t declined. Not only is he familiar with all the disciples from the Five Elements Sect''s stronghold, but he has also made connections with arge number of independent cultivators. Without this strength, his business wouldn''t be doing so well in recent years.

    In the Wilderness, there is hope for low-level disciples to obtain a fourth level Demon Core. Fourth level beasts are not immortal; the old ones, who are about to pass away, will hide in a secret ce and wait for death. Cultivators have identally found these ces before and earned a huge profit by obtaining intact fourth level beast bodies.

    After arranging everything, Lin Jiang quickly left. He had his ownwork, not just relying on Yue Qing. He needed to make more preparations.

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154

    The Wilderness, Five Elements Sect''s stronghold

    No one inside the stronghold received any news. They only saw arge number of flying boats in the sky. Zhang Wanjing was scared, thinking it was an attack from someone. Thankfully, he recognized the Five Elements Sect''s emblem and quickly prepared by activating the restricted airspace formation.

    The flying boat didn''tnd inside the base, but outside the base. Afterwards, disciples from the Five Elements Sect came out of the flying boat and formed a line outside the base.

    "Five people with Nascent Soul, at least thirty people with golden core, more than three hundred with Building foundation. What is the sect doing?"

    Lin Jiang counted the disciples who came down from the flying boat. There were already so many of them, and they have not received any information about what the sect is nning.

    "Even my father didn''t receive any information."

    Zhang Shuhua said with a gloomy face. With his father''s cultivation level and status, he should have received the information. Something is not right.

    "It must be because of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    Lin Jiang firmly believed that with the sect mobilizing such arge force without revealing any information to Zhang Wanjing, it could be for the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit.Zhang Wanjing approached and interacted with the Nascent Soul Elder who was leading the team. The Nascent Soul Elder was Guo Yunfeng, an acquaintance of Zhang Wanjing, Law Enforcement Hall Master Nie Wuyuan, and another elder named Shen Qun, who didn''t hold any official position.

    "Three Martial Uncles, what urgent matter requires all three of you to take action at the same time?"

    "Wanjing, something urgent came up and I didn''t have time to notify you. The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit in the Heavenly Wolf King''sir is about to ripen. Both the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect have already mobilized arge number of people. Our Five Elements Sect cannot fall behind, so we urgently dispatched manpower toe over. This is just the first batch, there will be moreing in the future. Meanwhile, the personnel at the base must also obey our orders."

    "Are the three major sects joining forces to destroy the Heavenly Wolf King?"

    "That''s about right. The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is extremely important to the Heavenly Wolf King. It may allow it to break through to the fifth level, which is absolutely uneptable. At the very least, we must destroy the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit this time."

    "Zhang Wanjing, this matter will be handled by our Presbyterian Church. As a golden core disciple, you just need to follow orders, no need to say anything else."

    Guo Yunfeng interrupted directly, his words carrying a reprimanding tone. Zhang Wanjing nced at him and closed his mouth.

    The two of them were like water and fire, nothing more to say.

    After a while, Chen Xuanhua also appeared. Although he often went out, he wasn''t stupid and left Zhang Wanjing with emergency contact methods.

    "Senior Brother Guo, Senior Brother Nie, Senior Brother Shen, you''ve arrived."

    "Senior Brother Chen, how are the news from the two sects?"

    "Got stopped, couldn''t find out, but definitely a lot of people."

    "If there are a lot of people, and Soul Changing doesn''t show up, then let''s fight them."

    Guo Yunfeng smirked, Five Elements Sect is not weaker than them in strength, even a little stronger. They now have fifteen Nascent Soul, and the sixteenth one ising soon.

    "If not necessary, let''s avoid conflict. It''s uncertain whether Cloud Sword Sect and Zhonghang Sect will form an alliance. If they join forces, we will be at a disadvantage."

    Chen Xuanhua shook his head. Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are currently allies, but that is what ordinary people think. When ites to significant interests, the probability of them turning against each other is high. But with the presence of Five Elements Sect, it''s still unknown if they will truly form an alliance.

    "Let''s not discuss that for now. Set up the camp, establish our position outside the stronghold. Once we have more people and supplies arriving, we''ll advance towards Heavenly Wolf King''sir. We must stop those demon tribes and clear the battlefield."

    Nie Wuyuan shook his head. We''ll talk about thatter. First, the people from Five Elements Sect will advance deeper into the Wilderness. The strength of Heavenly Wolf King lies in its ability to mobilize the demon tribes and create a swarm. Even an Nascent Soul cultivator can be overwhelmed if surrounded by hundreds of thousands or even millions of demon beasts.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    At Zhonghang Sect stronghold, numerous flying boats descended. The three elders of Zhonghang Sect, Qi Yunzhao, Chen Mingyang, and Ouyang Qing, appeared simultaneously. And they were just the first batch; more people and troops will arriveter.

    "The spy reported that the Five Elements Sect has also taken action. The known Nascent Soul cultivators are Guo Yunfeng, Nie Wuyuan, and Shen Qun, along with Chen Xuanhua who guards the stronghold. So far, four Nascent Soul cultivators from the Five Elements Sect have mobilized."

    "Guo Yunfeng and Shen Qun are not to be feared, but Nie Wuyuan is quite strong. We need to be careful."

    "The Law Enforcement Hall master, whocks any strength, won''t be able to handle it. Our Zhonghang Sect will rely on Senior Qi to suppress Nie Wuyuan."

    Chen Mingyang said. The Hall Masters of the Law Enforcement Halls from other sects are all powerful individuals. Nie Wuyuan has a big reputation, and he knows he''s no match for them.

    "Nie Wuyuan is manageable, but I''m more worried about the Cloud Sword Sect. Although we agreed to form an alliance this time, you all know that such promises mean nothingpared to the benefits of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. They are as worthless as a piece of scrap paper."

    Qi Yunzhao said. The status of the three major sects is established by the Soul Changing technique, but it is supported by Nascent Soul cultivators like us. Each Nascent Soul cultivator is incredibly important for the sects. If one person is lost and another is gained, it could lead to earth-shattering consequences.

    "If we can''t obtain it, we must destroy it. Our Zhonghang Sect doesn''t have it, and other sects shouldn''t either."

    "What about your sister, Cao Ying?"

    "She''ll figure something out. If all else fails, she can ask Li Ruoxu to refine a batch of Clear Spirit Pills."

    Chen Mingyang said as he looked towards a disciple in the distance. It had been over a hundred years since thest genius with aplete Golden Core like his appeared in the Zhonghang Sect.

    "Cao Ying, ah, this disciple gives me a headache."

    Ouyang Qing shook her head too. Indeed, no one is perfect. This disciple of hers was good at everything except for her mindset. Eighty percent of her mindset problem was caused by her uncle, who had raised her for over ten years. No matter how much she tried to open up, she couldn''tpare to him, which made her feel helpless.

    "Without reaching the Nascent Soul stage, Cao Ying''s achievements will always be limited. She still needs to work on her mindset. Find that person, eliminate her, andpletely resolve Cao Ying''s mindset."

    "That person is from Anhua City. It would be quite troublesome to kill him."

    "Anhua City, if we give him face, he is the Little Overlord of Yun State. If we don''t give him face, he''s just a Nascent Soul cultivator."

    Qi Yunzhao sneered. Lin Batian may be formidable, but so what? Anhua City only has one Nascent Soul cultivator, is that impressive? Zhonghang Sect has thirteen, and we even have Soul Changing cultivators above us.

    "Let''s find the person first. That kid has sent back quite a few letters over the years, but we can never seem to find him. I wonder where he''s hiding."

    "Yun State isn''t that big; he probably went to other states. Be cautious, don''t let an independent cultivator ruin our Nascent Soul potential."

    Qi Yunzhao said that Zhonghang Sect has invested a lot of resources in Cao Ying. She is their important seed and they won''t allow her to fail because of an independent cultivator.

    Chen Mingyang and Ouyang Qing didn''t answer, but they agreed with the decision. They won''t let Cao Ying fail in her advancement due to her state of mind, considering both the sect''s interests and their personal feelings.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    This is the Lin family stronghold in Anhua City. Lin Batian is listening to the news from the three major sects.

    Since taking over Anhua City, the Lin family has stopped expanding for now. There are no small forces left in the area, only powers simr to theirs or the enormous Five Elements Sect.

    So, the Lin family quickly turned their focus to the Wilderness. That''s why the incident where Lin Batian severely injured the Heavenly Wolf King happened a few decades ago. After that, the Lin family established their own stronghold. It may not be as strong as the three major sects, but it still earns a significant amount every year.

    "Father, the three major sects have a strong foundation. At least three to five Nascent Soul cultivators will be sent out this time. It seems they''re going topletely uproot the influence of the Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf King."

    "It''s not that simple. The demons are also capable of deception. Just wait and see, when the powerful demons from deep within the Wilderness emerge, it will be enough to give them a hard time."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Father, don''t you have faith in the actions of the three major sects this time?"

    "Not because they are not optimistic, but because they are bound to fail."

    "Why?"

    Lin Die was somewhat surprised, why was her father so confident?

    "Because your father has set his sights on the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    "Is dad nning to fight against a dozen Nascent Soul cultivators alone?"

    "What''s wrong with that? Under the Soul Changing realm, I am invincible. Even if we exchange blows above the Soul Changing realm, they are just a bunch of insignificant foes."

    "If dad''s words spread, he might get beaten up easily."

    "Haha, little one, you underestimate your father too much."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Die didn''t speak and just hoped that when her dad got beaten up, she wouldn''t be involved. She was just a weak and couldn''t handle it like her dad.

    "Where is Lao Shi?"

    "Still investigating Aurora falcon, most likely it''s Lin Wu in the Wilderness."

    Lin Die said that she heard from the Lin family that they saw Aurora falcon hunting demons in the Wilderness and reported it. Lin Ying has been investigating and she wants to meet Sixth Brother''s child.

    "Let Lao Shie back. My Spear Talisman is still with Sixth Brother''s family. Next time I can help her locate it."

    "Dad, don''t look for Lin Wu anymore. I''ve noticed that Zhonghang Sect hasn''t been acting right these years. He has be Cao Ying''s Heart Demon, and Zhonghang Sect may forcibly break Cao Ying''s Heart Demon."

    "He dares! I am Lin Batian''s descendant. Zhonghang Sect doesn''t have the right to kill me."

    Lin Batian got angry as soon as he heard this. As Lin Batian''s descendant, when did it ever be eptable for someone to kill him for no reason? Is Zhonghang Sect really that great?

 Chapter 155

    Chapter 155

    Wilderness, a remote area

    Three veryrge airships slowly moved in the sky, almost suspended, with cultivatorsing in and out on each airship.

    These airships served as transfer stations, rest stops, and ughterhouses. Disciples who went out brought back the bodies of demonic beasts, which were then dissected to collect useful materials. Injured disciples also received treatment on them.

    And more cultivators surrounded these three airships, sweeping across the ground, killing any visible demonic beasts mercilessly.

    This was a collective action led by the Five Elements Sect, with dozens of disciples at the golden core stage, hundreds at the building foundation stage, and thousands at the Qi Refining stage. They formed teams of several tens of people and ruthlessly killed the members of the demonic tribe.

    Their goal was to open a passage from a Five Elements Sect stronghold to the Heavenly Wolf King''sir. In the surroundings of this passage, no demonic beasts were allowed to exist.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua also participated, with Guo Yunfeng personally leading the group. There was nowhere to run, so they could only join the battle with a brave face.

    "Senior brother, are you foolish? Keep charging forward!"

    Lin Jiang saw that Zhang Shuhua was charging fiercely and hurriedly pulled him back."Junior brother, don''t be afraid of battle."

    "Look around, everyone is in groups, we are isted. Understand? The situation is not right now. The demons'' counterattack is weak. Later, watch my signals and act ordingly. If anything goes wrong, run."

    Lin Jiang said, Guo Yunfeng is narrow-minded and wants to kill them. Everyone around belongs to Guo Yunfeng. They imed to be in a team with them but deliberately isted them. What a fool to charge forward now and seek death.

    "Senior master Guo, he..."

    "Stop talking nonsense. If you don''t want to die, follow me and save your life. You can''tpare to me."

    Lin Jiang said, after fighting for a long time, Lin Jiang never made a move. If he needs to take action, he would throw spiritual talismans. He saves his spiritual power, being more ruthless to his own people than to demons.

    "Run, it''s the Spirit Devouring Demonic Ant."

    "So many Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants, countless numbers."

    "Quick, keep moving and don''t stop."

    "Fire magic"

    "Quick, use fire magic, fire magic can defeat them."

    As soon as Lin Jiang finished speaking, they heard cries of rming from disciples of the Five Elements Sect in the distance. Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua looked up and saw ayer of ck mist appearing in the distance.

    That is not mist, but arge number of Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants. They look like mist.

    Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants can fly at low altitude, their mouthparts can break through armor, even magical treasures can''t withstand their massive consumption. They are one of the most terrifying killers in the Wilderness, even scarier than high-level monsters.

    "Boom"

    "Boom"

    Some disciples of the Five Elements Sect cast fire magic spells, while others used spiritual talismans. With one fire magic spell, hundreds or even thousands of Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants were burned to death.

    But it was useless, there were too many of them, too many to count, only knowing that they were all in front of their eyes.

    "Help me, senior brother, help me"

    One disciple was entangled by the Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants, and in just a few words, he turned into a skeleton and waspletely devoured.

    "Blood Shadow Bee"

    "Be careful of the sky, Blood Shadow Bee has also appeared"

    "It''s Ghost Crow, Ghost Crow has also arrived"

    "Martial Uncle, what should we do"

    Immediately after, more groups of demonic beasts appeared. Both the Blood Shadow Bee and Ghost Crow appeared inrge numbers. The sky was filled with countless demonic beasts.

    "Retreat, withdraw in an orderly manner"

    "Provide cover for each other, quickly"

    With the help of a powerful warrior called Golden Core, a sword was swung to create a path of blood, and the order to retreat was given.

    "Our elders in the sect have given the order, let''s go."

    Lin Jiang held onto Zhang Shuhua, waiting for themand from Golden Core, and then they immediately took flight.

    Arge number of Blood Shadow Bees swarmed in. Lin Jiang was covered in excellent quality spiritual weapons, which temporarily held them off. He quickly used spiritual talismans one after another, as if they were free.

    "Buzz"

    Just then, dozens of lightning bolts appeared and struck amidst the disciples of the Five Elements Sect, causing hundreds of them to fall from the sky.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Wicked creature"

    Guo Yunfeng became furious and personally took action. He swung his sword towards a mass of clouds and mist. The clouds dissipated, revealing an extremelyrge monster.

    "Fourth stage Thunder Cloud Beast"

    "Humans, attack my territory, kill my people, die!"

    The Thunder Cloud Beast spoke like a human, and attacked Guo Yunfeng. Even before it moved, arge amount of lightning struck towards Guo Yunfeng.

    "Thunder Cloud Beast, I''ll help you."

    Soon, another fourth-level monster appeared. It was a monster with a human head and bear body, probably a fierce bear demon.

    After reaching the fourth level, monster creatures can transform, but most of them don''t actively choose to do so. Even if they do transform, they still retain some features of their monster form. Monsters don''t value human forms, and prefer to show their beast-like appearance.

    "Disciples of the Five Elements Sect, retreat. Protect the golden core."

    Chen Xuanhua didn''t directly take action. He didn''t know how many fourth-level monster creatures were involved and he was afraid of falling into a trap. He wanted to protect the disciples under him.

    "Hehe, these Taoist friends, since you''ve alle, why are you in such a hurry to leave?"

    Suddenly, a voice reached Chen Xuanhua''s ears, filling him with shock. The thing he feared the most had happened.

    "Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox"

    "No, I only have four tails. If you don''t believe me, take a look."

    Chen Xuanhua turned around and saw a beautiful woman standing in front of him, but she had four fluffy tails behind her.

    After the woman finished speaking, one of her tails swayed back and forth, releasing a pink aura.

    "Everyone, be careful. Take the Calming and Concentration Pill to maintain a focused mind and prevent falling for illusions."

    Chen Xuanhua drew his sword and warned his fellow Five Elements Sect disciple before attacking the Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox.

    "Brother, what are you doing?"

    "Master, I am your student."

    "Brother, please don''t kill me."

    Chen Xuanhua reminded everyone to be prepared, but some still fell into a dreand and started attacking those around them.

    "Junior, I..."

    "Stay focused, follow me."

    Zhang Shuhua''s face turned red, his eyes became unfocused, and there were signs of being affected by magic. This shocked Lin Jiang.

    The illusions of the Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox are powerful, but they can be easily defended against in certain situations. Only those with a weak mind can be deceived. Lin Jiang couldn''t believe that even Zhang Shuhua, who was always strong, had such a fragile mind.

    "Xiao Yi, take Shuhua and walk on the ground. The outskirts are still inhabited by monsters."

    At this moment, Zhang Wanjing''s voice reached Lin Jiang''s ears. Lin Jiang immediately grabbed Zhang Shuhua and they fell to the ground.

    Countless Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants rushed towards Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang shouted loudly and quickly activated the spiritual talisman in his hand. Several fire dragons burned the Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants in front of him to ashes.

    "Let''s go."

    Lin Jiang roared angrily, and his power surged crazily as the two of them turned into a blurry figure and left.

    The disciples of the Five Elements Sect saw the two of them creating a path of blood, and immediately someone followed, with more and more peopleing from behind.

    "Don''t follow me."

    Lin Jiang turned around and shouted loudly. With so many people, they were definitely being targeted by demons. Wasn''t this going to kill him?

    But no one paid attention to Lin Jiang''s words. At this moment, everyone was running for their lives, who cared about anything else.

    "Cry"

    As expected, after a while, Lin Jiang heard the sound of an eagle cry.

    "Explosive Element Technique"

    Without hesitation, Lin Jiang directly activated the Powerful Explosion Technique, and then shed out with his sword.

    "Boom"

    A big ck eagle behind Lin Jiang was hit by him and crashed into a disciple of the Five Elements Sect, knocking him down to the ground.

    "Third-level Tigerhawk"

    The rest of the disciples of the Five Elements Sect looked, and their faces changed dramatically. Tigerhawk is a particrly powerful kind of flying beast, named after its tiger-like face.

    The disciples of the Five Elements Sect didn''t even consider joining forces to fight the enemy and immediately scattered like birds and beasts.

    "Senior brother, are you okay?"

    "I''m fine, junior brother. You go, I''ll stay behind to cover you."

    "Let''s go together."

    "If we go together, we won''t be able to leave. Let''s take advantage of Tigerhawk still adjusting itsbat posture and hurry."

    Lin Jiang hesitated whether to expose the existence of the Shadiaos. With Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao around, this mere third-stage Tigerhawk was nothing to fear.

    "ughter sound*"

    Before the two could hesitate any longer, Zhang Wanjing appeared and with one sword strike, severely injured the Tigerhawk. The Tigerhawk fled in a sorry state.

    "Don''t follow me."

    Zhang Wanjing said a sentence and disappeared. Behind Zhang Wanjing, over ten level-three demonic creatures chased after him and fought.

    Lin Jiang took a look and continued running. They were considered fast among the group, breaking free from the encirclement. However, more disciples from the Five Elements Sect were stopped by the demonic creatures, especially the group of Spirit Devouring Demonic Ants. Once surrounded, it was extremely terrifying.

    "Senior Brother Guo, don''t disturb, Wu Yuan is here too."

    When Lin Jiang and the others were far away from the battlefield, Nie Wuyuan finally appeared.

    "Elder Nie has appeared, they are saved."

    "Guo Yunfeng is really to me this time."

    Zhang Shuhua cursed loudly. This operation was led by Guo Yunfeng, with Zhang Wanjing strongly against it. Zhang Wanjing argued that the power of the Five Elements Sect alone was not enough to fight against the Wilderness demons.

    Either they had to join forces with the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect, or unite with many vassals and invest more power. However, Zhang Wanjing''s opinion was still forcefully vetoed by Guo Yunfeng.

    "Darn it, even if you die, he won''t die. Go back."

    Lin Jiang left a message and continued running towards the headquarters of the Five Elements Sect. It''s more important to save his life now. It''s not something they can get involved in with their level of strength. Let''s wait until they be more powerful.

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156

    Headquarters of the Five Elements Sect.

    With the help of the formation at the headquarters, the pursuing demonic beings were repelled, leaving a trail of bodies behind. There were demonic beings, cultivators, disciples of the Five Elements Sect, and even independent cultivators who were affected.

    Zhang Wanjingmanded the disciples of the Five Elements Sect to clean up the battlefield and treat the wounded. Everyone was busy, and some were trembling in fear from the cries of agony filling the headquarters.

    After a busy day, Zhang Wanjing saw the four Nascent Soul Elders again.

    "Wanjing, how many casualties?"

    "267 people dead, 585 injured, 72 missing, independent cultivators not counted."

    Zhang Wanjing gritted his teeth and said, then he stared coldly at Guo Yunfeng.

    "Hundreds of casualties, Five Elements Sect hasn''t suffered such a big defeat in centuries."

    Shen Qun sighed, Five Elements Sect hadn''t experienced such a defeat in many years, not even when Heavenly Wolf King counterattacked decades ago, so many people didn''t die."We need to ask our Martial Uncle Guo, if it weren''t for Martial Uncle Guo''s eagerness for battle and rushing to respond, how could we have suffered such a big defeat."

    "Zhang Wanjing, what do you mean? Are you trying to me the defeat on me?"

    "Didn''t you insist on starting the war? The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit needs at least two more years to mature, why were you in such a hurry?"

    "The army advances, weakening the power of the Heavenly Wolf King. What is the mistake in this?"

    "Why not unite the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect for the battle? Why let many fourth-level demons join forces? Why not mobilize the dependent forces? Just relying on this small number of people to forcefully attack?"

    "Are the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect your fathers? If you say to unite, then unite. How much power do those dependents have? What''s the use of mobilizing them? They will only hinder our progress. They''re useless."

    "Guo Yunfeng, you old thief, it is you who will cause the downfall of the Five Elements Sect."

    "How dare you, Zhang Wanjing! I am an elder of the Five Elements Sect. How dare you insult me in public. You''re seeking death."

    "Come on, if you dare, kill me."

    Zhang Wanjing became furious and roared at Guo Yunfeng. If it weren''t for his ipetence, how could there be such a huge defeat? The casualties of seven to eight hundred people, isn''t it easy to train these disciples? How many of these disciples could have grown to a higher level, but he caused their deaths.

    "Senior Brother Guo, please stay calm."

    Shen Qun and Nie Wuyuan stopped Guo Yunfeng. We can''t fight. Everyone knows that Zhang Wanjing carries the Life Talisman of the Soul Changing Ancestor.

    Guo Yunfeng naturally knew that if Zhang Wanjing didn''t have a Life Talisman, he would have been killed countless times by now. So, he immediately took advantage of the situation, saying, "I also take three parts of the me for this defeat. I will confess to the Sect Master and ept a ten-year sry deduction."

    "Ten years of sry deduction?! Guo, you old thief! So many people died, and you''re just deducting his sry for ten years?"

    "Of course, isn''t that enough? Does Elder Ben have to pay with his life?"

    Guo Yunfeng sneered and said. He has been fined for ten years. What else does he want? Does he want to sacrifice his life? He should ask for consent from others, shouldn''t he?

    "Wanjing, Elder Guo is already willing to ept the punishment. Let''s drop this matter."

    "Yes, Wanjing, now is not the time to investigate responsibility. We need to save people. The injured cannot die anymore. I have informed the sect and they will urgently send a batch of healing pills. You have to take charge of this."

    "Wanjing, saving people is the priority."

    Shen Qun and the others immediately advised. Nascent Soul is the pir of the sect. If we sacrifice him like this, it will create chaos. Although it''s regrettable that the disciples died, we cannot let Nascent Soul Elder pay such a heavy price.

    Zhang Wanjing certainly knew it was impossible to do anything to Guo Yunfeng, but hearing these words still made his anger rise. He felt powerless, as if he had the intention to kill the thief but was unable to make a difference.

    But Zhang Wanjing now needs power more urgently. He needs to advance to Nascent Soul stage in order to fight these people to the end, instead of relying on just a Life Talisman.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Being penalized for ten years, haha, what''s the difference with punishing oneself with three cups of wine?"

    Lin Jiang heard about Guo Yunfeng'' self-punishment and shook his head lightly. In the Five Elements Sect, even a small part of the Building Foundation stage, like him, didn''t rely on the sect''s sry to live. How much is the sry anyway?

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    So being penalized for ten years is a joke, not much different from punishing oneself with three cups of wine.

    "Now thinking back on Junior Brother''s words, they be even more reasonable. Without strength, everything I do is wrong. Only cultivation is truly important."

    Zhang Shuhua said, having witnessed how close Zhang Wanjing came to getting so angry that he almost vomited blood. As a fellow disciple, he felt extreme hatred in his heart, but his cultivation level was not enough. Even if he got angry, it would only be futile rage.

    "It''s good that you understand. Work hard in your cultivation. Junior Brother will rely on Senior Brother to take care of him in the future."

    "Junior Brother, don''t ck off either. Don''t sleep tonight, just focus on cultivation."

    "Okay, what Senior Brother said is right."

    Lin Jiang didn''t argue. For the past few years, they worked during the day and cultivated at night. They hardly needed sleep, but Lin Jiang would still lie down for a while every night out of habit.

    Cultivation, cultivation. Lin Jiang didn''t want to be an emotionless immortal. He hoped to remain human, and sleep was a basic human need.

    However, Lin Jiang had be much more diligent than before. He used to bezy, but now he worked hard. Even the capitalists would shed tears if they saw him.

    In the following days, wounded disciples continued to die. It wasn''t because the sect didn''t have high-level spiritual medicines, but they were reluctant to use them. High-level spiritual medicines were too scarce and precious. After weighing the pros and cons, the higher-ups simply didn''t distribute them.

    It all depended on each person''s savings at this point. If you had money, you could ask someone to buy good pills for you. If not, you had to rely on luck. If you could endure, then you could endure. If you couldn''t, it was like Tang Sanzang''s journey to the West.

    Some of the missing disciples began to return one after another, but it was very few. In this battle, the Five Elements Sect suffered heavy casualties, with more than three hundred people, including one golden core and over forty building foundation cultivators.

    Half a monthter, the sect mobilized arge number of people again, but this time they didn''t engage inrge-scale battles. They dispersed their forces into small teams, like independent cultivators, and hunted demons everywhere.

    The sect''s strategy remained unchanged. The higher-ups still adopted Guo Yunfeng''s suggestion to weaken the Heavenly Wolf King''s strength as much as possible before the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit fully matured.

    Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect are the same. They learned from the mistakes of the Five Elements Sect and won''t engage inrge-scale battles. They form small teams to weaken the strength of the monster n.

    At the same time, the three sects didn''t forget about independent cultivators. The three sects have appropriately increased the prices of various resources to stimte the enthusiasm of independent cultivators.

    With various measures, the human nunched a fierce attack on the monster n. Every day, arge number of monsters were killed by cultivators, and arge number of cultivators also died at the hands of monsters.

    Outside the Five Elements Sect''s base, Lin Jiang and Yue Qing restarted the wine-making workshop. When the monster beasts attacked, they had to give up the workshop. There were simply too many monster beasts, and they couldn''t resist them.

    "Luckily, the workshop wasn''t destroyed."

    "We should resume work as soon as possible. These two years will be a good opportunity to make money."

    "Definitely. We should put in more effort. If we miss this chance, we might nevere across one again."

    Yue Qing nodded. Thousands of disciples came from the Five Elements Sect alone. Although the Five Elements Sect provided them with food, they didn''t include luxuries like spiritual wine. The consumption of spiritual wine in the base was extremely high these days. Their opportunity had arrived.

    "I wonder how Martial Uncle Wei and the others are doing."

    Lin Jiang thought of his friends Wei Yunshen, they had been busy for several years building a base on their own and had lost touch.

    "They should be fine. Our cultivators areunching a major attack, and they are benefiting from it too. Even the powerful monsters can''t resist our attacks anymore."

    "Maybe. But let''s not worry about that. Just like we discussed earlier, gather the Demon Cores for me."

    Lin Jiang said that in the past two years, he had collected many Demon Cores, all of which he had given to Big Shadiao. It might be difficult for both of them to advance at the same time, so they would have to concentrate their resources. However, they still didn''t have any fourth-tier Demon Cores.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, don''t worry. Your matters are my matters. My uncle has already contacted someone from a medium-sized family. Their family has had a Nascent Soul stage cultivator in the past, and there is a possibility that they have inherited a fourth-tier Demon Core."

    "If the price is right, we''ll take it."

    Lin Jiang said that the price of a fourth-tier Demon Core fluctuated greatly. They could be sold for a hundred thousand spirit stones or even a million spirit stones, depending on the type of monster they came from.

    After wandering around the workshop for a while, Lin Jiang returned to the base. After the incident with Zhang Wanjing and Guo Yunfeng, Guo Yunfeng couldn''t target Zhang Wanjing and the others anymore. Guo Yunfeng was also afraid that Zhang Wanjing would go crazy and use the Life Talisman. If that happened, Guo Yunfeng would have no chance to escape.

    With more people, the matters at the base became extremely busy. Various tasks piled up on Lin Jiang''s shoulders, putting his management skills to the test.

    On the other hand, Zhang Shuhua became rxed. Arge number of people from the Five Elements Sect arrived at the base. The independent cultivators dared not cause trouble, and the surrounding monsters were either cleared or scared away. He had nothing to do all day and even practicedzily, working very hard.

    Zhang Wanjing became mysterious, and Lin Jiang didn''t know what he was nning. But Lin Jiang felt pessimistic about Zhang Wanjing trying to seize the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. There were too many people eyeing the fruit, even more than ten Nascent Soul practitioners from the three sects. How could Zhang Wanjing have the confidence to snatch it?

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157

    The Wilderness, the den of the Heavenly Wolf King

    The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit was almost ripe, and its enticing fragrance drove all the demonic beasts crazy. Even the Heavenly Wolf King''s n members were restless. The Heavenly Wolf King frequently let out warning growls, guarding the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit without any distractions.

    The cultivators captured in the den had already been killed by the agitated Heavenly Wolf King. However, the Heavenly Wolf King was still extremely concerned. The human race had been coveting his treasure for a long time.

    "Damn humans, if I advance, I''ll devour all of you!"

    The Heavenly Wolf King roared angrily, the unsafe atmosphere making him very irritable.

    At the same time, at the Five Elements Sect''s stronghold, the personnel of the Five Elements Sect had already assembled. They had more and stronger memberspared tost time, but they still only had four Nascent Soul practitioners.

    The Four Nascent Soul are all the mobile forces that Five Elements Sect can use. The other Nascent Souls have important matters to attend to and cannot be easily moved. Of course, this is not a crucial event for Five Elements Sect regarding the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. It''s a matter of getting the best oue, but if it cannot be obtained, it doesn''t matter. It''s not enough to make Five Elements Sect go all out.

    "Wanjing, in this battle, we, the Nascent Soul, will be the main force. We will directly attack the Heavenly Wolf King''sir. The Heavenly Wolf King will definitely gather fourth-grade monster beasts to assist in the battle. Wilderness also has many treasures, a good opportunity for our sect to make a fortune. You must seize it."

    Nie Wuyuan said to Zhang Wanjing. In the Wilderness, whenever an important treasure appears, it will trigger a phenomenon and attract other monster tribes to snatch it. This is a great opportunity for us to steal attack them."Martial Uncle Nie, Wanjing has understood."

    Zhang Wanjing said, as the person in charge of the base, this matter should not have been his responsibility. But now the elders have pushed the task onto him. He already understood the implications, but he no longer felt angry and epted it calmly.

    "Alright, I believe Wanjing will prioritize the overall situation of the sect. We will leave first, and Wanjing can handle it as he sees fit."

    Nie Wuyuan nodded, then quickly flew away with Chen Xuanhua and the others. Sending ordinary disciples to the Heavenly Wolf King''sir would be a suicide mission. There was no need to involve them.

    "Zhang Wanjing is delusional to think he can seize the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit with just his golden core cultivation level."

    While on the road, Guo Yunfengughed and said. Zhang Wanjing, you wanted to seize the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, right? There isn''t even a door, and you were thrown off. Let''s see what you can do.

    "Senior Brother Guo, there''s no need to be like this. Zhang Wanjing is also devoted to the public."

    "Junior Brother Nie, the way you said that makes it sound like it''s not good for our sect. Aren''t we willing to sacrifice ourselves for the sect?"

    "I didn''t say that."

    "Hehe, just wait and see. If Zhang Wanjing advances to the Nascent Soul stage, none of us will have any good fruit to eat. This guy is like a troublemaker. I don''t have much life left, but you guys are still young. Let''s see how long you can tolerate him."

    Guo Yunfeng sneered, and the other three immediately fell silent. It seems that the hatred between the two will never be resolved. This is not a good thing for the sect.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Zhang, when shall we go?"

    Inside the base of the Five Elements Sect, a disciple with a golden core asked Zhang Wanjing.

    "Martial Uncle told me that the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit will ripen in the next two or three days. Let''s send out scouts first. If there are any disturbances from the demonic beasts, we will take immediate action. ording to our previous n, we will form teams of 30 to 50 people and act together."

    Zhang Wanjing said, ording to the records, when the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit ripens, its unique fragrance can spread for thousands of miles, attracting all the demonic beasts. It''s their instinct. When some of the beast guarding certain treasures leave, they can plunder those ces.

    "Let''s all listen to Senior Brother Zhang. Everyone, stay put for now and rest. Prepare yourselves individually."

    Several disciples with golden core conveyed the message to the disciples of the Five Elements Sect below. Everyone rested in their original positions.

    But at this time, most of the independent farmers in the stronghold have already set out. The ripe Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is a great opportunity for them to be wealthy, and no one would miss it.

    One dayter, a scout came to report that the monsters from all over the Wilderness had spontaneously headed towards the Heavenly Wolf King''sir. Zhang Wanjing immediately gave the order to act. Dozens of small andrge flying boats departed from the Five Elements Sect stronghold, and the stronghold waspletely closed, with all kinds of protective formations activated to prevent their from being stolen.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua followed Zhang Wanjing''s lead. Lin Jiang stood on the flying boat and saw countless beasts running underground, all heading in one direction, as if on a pilgrimage.

    "A single Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, nurtured by countless drops of blood."

    Lin Jiang sighed hypocritically. But this was also the truth. Before the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit could fully ripen, who knows how many monsters and cultivators would die. And in the uing battle for it, even more people would perish.

    "Be careful, today our enemies are not monsters, but cultivators."

    Zhang Shuhua said from the side. Starting today, the monsters are all going to their of the Heavenly Wolf King. At least the powerful ones. And their enemies will be cultivators, independent cultivators, or people from other forces.

    "Master, why don''t you go first?"

    "No hurry, let them fight first."

    "No time to waste."

    "If it''s meant to be mine, I won''t be able to escape. If it''s not meant to be mine, even if I go, it won''t matter. That''s what destiny is."

    "I think even if a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit falls from the sky, hiding in the flying boat, it will be repelled by the formation on the outeryer of the boat."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes and said. Master, can you tell us what your trump card is? I''m curious.

    "It has begun, prepare for battle."

    While speaking, Zhang Shuhua saw people starting to fight. He didn''t know who they were, but the people on the flying boat were all getting ready.

    "You, led by Zhang Shuhua, go down and fight for the elixir."

    Zhang Wanjing gave themand, and then one by one, the disciples flew out of the flying boat andnded on the ground.

    "Clear the area, no need to be polite. Whoever refuses to leave, kill them all."

    Zhang Shuhua went back to his cold and ruthless self, and gave a direct order.

    Ahead of the crowd, a group of about a dozen cultivators were fighting. When they saw the disciples of the Five Elements Sect, some of them had their faces change in shock and quickly retreated, while others came straight towards them to attack.

    The wilderness is harsh, and the status of being a disciple of a major sect is only useful within the stronghold. Once you''re outside the stronghold, nobody cares who you are. It''s survival of the fittest.

    "Kill!"

    Lin Jiang took the lead and charged forward. Before he even reached them, his flying sword was already in action, colliding with dozens of people.

    "Crack!"

    The person who fought against Lin Jiang had his flying sword shattered with one strike. Before he could react, a disciple from the Five Elements Sect had already severed his head.

    This time, the people fighting alongside Lin Jiang were not strangers. They were all elite guards selected by Zhang Shuhua from their stronghold, they were on the same side, and their cooperation was not seamless, but it was highly coordinated.

    "Five Elements Sect, you have gone too far. If I be Soul Changing one day, I will destroy you, Five Elements Sect."

    "Thirty years on the east bank of the river, thirty years on the west bank. Five Elements Sect, remember that."

    "Five Elements Sectбдбдбдбд"

    The independent cultivator was quickly defeated with one strike, losing the will to fight and starting to flee. Some people even cursed angrily before leaving, but no one paid them any attention. If cursing could kill, the Five Elements Sect would have been cursed to death long ago.

    "Half of the guards, half of the people go and gather spiritual herbs. Those who have the skills of a spiritual farmer, go and gather the herbs."

    Zhang Shuhua gave the order, and soon half of the people scattered and started gathering the spiritual herbs of the Wilderness. Lin Jiang also volunteered and went.

    Most of the spiritual herbs in the Wilderness appeared in clusters because the scattered ones had mostly been picked by others. Only those near the spiritual veins were guarded by monsters and thus preserved.

    Some monsters also have a connection with spiritual herbs. Their saliva and feces serve as the fertilizer for these herbs. When the herbs mature, the monsters will devour them to enhance their cultivation.

    "The precious medicinal herbs were dug up, root and all."

    Lin Jiang said to the disciples of the Five Elements Sect. Many medicinal herbs are not mature yet, but as long as they are valuable, they will take them. The Five Elements Sect is famous for its skill in Spiritual Farming. When they bring them back, there will naturally be someone who can cultivate them, and there will be no waste.

    "Let''s go to the next ce."

    Seeing that everyone had finished picking, Zhang Shuhua quickly led them to another location.

    However, halfway there, Zhang Shuhua received a distress signal. A disciple of the Five Elements Sect was at a disadvantage in a fight. Zhang Shuhua immediately led his people to support them.

    "Senior brother, don''t let them go. They killed many of our people."

    When Zhang Shuhua arrived, the group of people had already escaped. The remaining disciples cried andined.

    "There''s nothing more to say if our skills are inferior. Now, our main goal is topete for the Spirit Medicine. You and us will join forces, and the injured will go to the Healing Ship."

    Zhang Shuhua didn''t agree to go on the hunt. Now is a rare opportunity in the Wilderness, where most of the powerful monsters are gone. If we don''t collect the Spirit Medicine now, when will we?

    As for seeking revenge, you''ll have to figure it out yourself. In the Wilderness, strength speaks for itself. If you''re not skilled enough, you can''t me anyone. It doesn''t mean that only the disciples of the Five Elements Sect can kill, others can''t kill the disciples of the Five Elements Sect.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Don''t disturb the gathering ce of pregnant beasts and ant colonies..."

    Zhang Shuhua continued to shout loudly. Not all the monsters have been lured away. The pregnant beasts, because of their strong motherly instinct, can resist the attraction of this strange fragrance. As for creatures like the ant colony, they are controlled by the Ant Queen and might not necessarily go there.

    The powerful Five Elements Sect, which is a big martial arts school, often shes with individual cultivators and smaller factions. The disciples with strong cultivation abilities on their flying boats also participate in these conflicts.

    At this moment, a person quietly appeared on Zhang Wanjing''s flying boat. It was one of the three powerful disciples who had established their own bases.

    "Senior Brother Zhang, I have arrived."

    "Junior Brother Zou, you have worked hard this time."

    "Senior Brother, no need to say that. If it wasn''t for your fair and just actions back then, I would have already passed away. I will always remember your kindness, Senior Zou Yu."

    "I remember your great kindness, Brother Zou, and I don''t need to say thank you."

    Zhang Wanjing felt very touched and expressed his gratitude to Zou Yu through a big bow.

    After the handover wasplete, Zou Yu transformed into Zhang Wanjing''s appearance, not only in looks but also in breath. Zhang Wanjingpletely disappeared from the scene and left the flying boat.

    "Senior Brother Zhang, you must seed. If you advance to the Nascent Soul stage, there will be hope for all of us."

    Zou Yu shouted in his heart as the chaos and corruption inside the sect grew. If Zhang Wanjing didn''t make a breakthrough, their hope would bepletely lost.

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158

    Outside the nest of the Wilderness'' Heavenly Wolf King

    The Heavenly Wolf King flipped Thunder Cloud Beast over and ruthlessly pierced its abdomen with its ws. But just at the critical moment, Thunder Cloud Beast let out a whimper, indicating its submission, and the Heavenly Wolf King spared its life.

    After tossing aside Thunder Cloud Beast, the blood-stained Heavenly Wolf King looked around at the surrounding monsters. All of them lowered their heads andy on the ground, showing their submission.

    The performance of many magical creatures pleased the Heavenly Wolf King very much. When the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit ripens, its unique fragrance drives the magical creatures crazy, especially those at higher realms. Even the Heavenly Wolf King, as a ruler, would face challenges.

    If it cannot withstand the challenges of these magical creatures, it will not only lose the precious Purple Origin Taoist Fruit but also risk losing its life. Other magical creatures wouldn''t hesitate to devour it to enhance their own cultivation.

    Now that it has withstood the challenges, the internal troubles are considered resolved. As long as it can withstand the greedy humans, it will be able to enjoy the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit.

    "The Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf is truly extraordinary. That Thunder Cloud Beast may also have a unique bloodline, but it is no match for the Heavenly Wolf King."

    Above the den of the Heavenly Wolf King, there is a flying boat hidden within the clouds. Nie Wuyuan sighed. He had fought against the Thunder Cloud Beast in the past two years and even with his strength, he couldn''t defeat it. But today, he witnessed the Thunder Cloud Beast easily being defeated by the Heavenly Wolf King.

    "The Heavenly Wolf King has dominated this Wilderness for thousands of years. If it didn''t possess considerable strength, it would have been killed by other magical creatures long ago. There will be a good fight today.""Or else, just destroy it."

    Guo Yunfeng suggested that the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit was of no use to him. He didn''t have much lifespan left and had no chance to break through the Soul Changing stage. He wasn''t willing to risk his life for it.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "No, we must seize it if we can. The sect can always use more Nascent Souls, and the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is a sixth-tier spiritual herb. If refined into a sixth-tier elixir, it can greatly enhance our cultivation. If the sect gains one more Soul Changing expert, the strength of the Five Elements Sect will skyrocket."

    Guo Yunfeng''s words were immediately met with rebuttal. They said. Guo Yunfeng, your life is not much, but others still have a chance to undergo Soul Changing. Even if it''s for the disciples with a golden core, it is possible to gain an additional Nascent Soul. How could one easily destroy it?

    "Senior Brother Guo, it''s not just our Five Elements Sect that has their eyes on the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Let''s assess the situation first. Whoever can''t resist temptation will bring about their own demise."

    "Yes, stay calm. The other two sects should have arrived as well. Let''s try to find them first."

    Shen Qun also agreed. He didn''t dare to support Guo Yunfeng''s proposition. After all, if they destroyed it directly, what was the point of all the time and effort they had spent?

    At the same time, on the other side of Heavenly Wolf King''sir, Ouyang Qing''s eyes emitted a golden light. Finally, her gazended on the direction where the four members of the Five Elements Sect were hiding.

    "Junior Sister, what''s going on?"

    "The Five Elements Sect has also been found. There are four people: Nie Wuyuan, Chen Xuanhua, Shen Qun, and Guo Yunfeng. I haven''t seen anyone else."

    Ouyang Qing withdrew her gaze and said to Qi Yunzhao and Chen Mingyang. This special eye technique is one of her hidden cards. Apart from a few close senior brothers, no one knows about it.

    "The Five Elements Sect only sent four Nascent Soul individuals, and apart from Nie Wuyuan, the other three aren''t formidable characters. Do you think the Five Elements Sect is underestimating the situation or simplycks enough manpower?"

    "Underestimate it, several powerful members of the Five Elements Sect are probably strategizing how to breakthrough to the Soul Changing stage. The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit isn''t helpful for them, so they are unwilling toe."

    "Hehe, now let''s see how the Cloud Sword Sect and Five Elements Sect will fight. The Cloud Sword Sect has brought an extraordinary person."

    "Senior brother, do you think there will be other peopleing topete?"

    "There shouldn''t be any more. Among the Yun State, our three families have the strongest power. Other forces don''t have many Nascent Soul cultivators, and they may not know the news or dare toe."

    Qi Yunzhao said, cultivators also have territorial divisions. If Nascent Soul cultivators from other statese, Nascent Soul cultivators from the Yun State will definitely join forces to defeat them first.

    "As far as I know, Lin Batian from Anhua City has been in the Wilderness for these few years."

    "Junior sister, you are thinking too much. How could the Lin family dare to snatch food from the three major sects?"

    Qi Yunzhao was somewhat surprised. It is more likely that Nascent Soul cultivators from other states wille. In his opinion, the Lin family from Anhua City doesn''t have the courage. They only have one Nascent Soul cultivator, no matter how strong Lin Batian is, how many people can he fight?

    "Perhaps I am worrying too much, but Lin Batian has always had big ambitions."

    "Although he is not small, if he dares toe this time, the three major factions don''t mind changing the owner of Anhua City."

    Qi Yunzhao said, the three major factions have an understanding. When facing the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, they canpete, they can fight, but the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit can only be given to one of the three families, not others.

    Yun State already has three major overlords, there is no need for a fourth dominant faction.

    "Senior brother, smell this fragrance, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit should be ripe tomorrow morning, it will not take more than twenty hours. Should we find a ce to hide it first?"

    "No need, neither the Cloud Sword Sect nor the Five Elements Sect have the ability to find us. Let''s just wait and watch the show."

    Qi Yunzhao smiled, he still had some confidence in his invisibility technique. As Nascent Soul cultivators, the other two factions would never be able to find them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior brother, I found the location of the Five Elements Sect."

    A Nascent Soul cultivator from the Cloud Sword Sect camp pointed casually at the hiding ce of the four members of the Five Elements Sect.

    "Has the Zhonghang Sect been found yet?"

    "No, Qi Yunzhao has some treasure on him that I haven''t found."

    "Those guys from the Zhonghang Sect, hmph."

    The Nascent Soul from the Cloud Sword Sect, who was in charge, snorted. The two sects were originally allied, but they didn''t seek help from them at this time, obviously indicating ulterior motives.

    Senior brother, what should we do? The aura of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is ripening quickly. We can''t wait. If it fully ripens, the Heavenly Wolf King will surely swallow it whole, and we won''t be able to stop it.

    It''s a bit difficult for the four of us. The Zhonghang Sect is not showing up, they must be trying to take advantage.

    "Senior brother, then let''s join forces with the Five Elements Sect, two against one. We''re not afraid of the Zhonghang Sect turning against us."

    "I''ll give it a try."

    The Nascent Soul in charge nodded, then extended his spiritual awareness into the clouds where the Five Elements Sect was hiding.

    "Hello, Taoist friends. Jiang from Cloud Sword Sect greets you."

    "So it''s Taoist Friend Jiang. Nice to meet you, Nie Wuyuan."

    "Taoist Friend Nie, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is about to ripen. If we don''t act now, it will be toote. How about we join forces?"

    "Hasn''t Cloud Sword Sect always been allied with Zhonghang Sect?"

    "The three sects have a close rtionship. My Cloud Sword Sect and your sect have a good rtionship too."

    "Haha, Taoist Friend Jiang makes a good point. How about wee up with a n? There''s only one ripened Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    "Taoist Friend Nie, we must not let the Heavenly Wolf King have the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. We should try to seize it, or else destroy it. If we manage to get it, Cloud Sword Sect is willing to offer..."

    Jiang proposed his own terms. If the two sects join forces and take the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, there must be a price. Otherwise, they will certainly turn hostile. Cloud Sword Sect won''t risk a conflict with Five Elements Sect over just one fruit.

    On Nie Wuyuan''s side, he shared Jiang''s proposal with Chen Xuanhua and others. They all thought it was eptable. Even if they couldn''t obtain the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, they wouldn''t lose out either.

    After the discussion, two groups of people and horses appeared at the same time. Their powerful aura swept across the entire ce. Eight Nascent Soul cultivators aimed at the Heavenly Wolf King.

    "You despicable and shameless humans, dare to covet my treasure. Kill them for me."

    Upon seeing the many Nascent Soul cultivators, the Heavenly Wolf King instantly became furious and immediately ordered the fourth-level demon n to take action.

    The lower-level demons were overwhelmed by the pressure from the Nascent Soul cultivators and started to flee. Meanwhile, the fourth-level demon beasts, such as the Thunder Cloud Beast, Rampaging Bear, and Nine-tailed Heavenly Fox, attacked the group with full force.

    "Get lost."

    Jiang Yijian shouted loudly, and a burst of sword energy erupted. The powerful Thunder Cloud Beast resisted the sword energy, instantly shattering its lightning technique. The Thunder Cloud Beast was heavily injured and retreated.

    "So strong."

    "Jiang Yijian truly deserves to be the head of the Hidden Sword Peak in the Cloud Sword Sect."

    "I can''t block this sword."

    When everyone in the Five Elements Sect saw this, they were all shocked. They had long heard of the renowned swordsman Jiang Yijian, even though he hadn''t made a move in decades. But now, this move of his was extraordinary.

    "Awoooo!"

    With a howl, the Heavenly Wolf King transformed into its true form.

    "Come and see how skilled you, the Heavenly Wolf King, are, if you can withstand a few of my attacks."

    Jiang Yijian burst intoughter, his demeanor suddenly transformed, fierce and menacing, like a sharpened sword.

    "Attack!"

    "With one strike, I will split the river."

    "Roar!"

    Jiang Yijian and the Heavenly Wolf King shed, the chilling sword aura seemed as if it could slice through the sky, while the Heavenly Wolf King relied on its powerful beastly body to resist the blows.

    "Boom"

    After a single strike, the aftermath of the battle swept through the Heavenly Wolf King''sir, causing giant trees to fall and rocks to shatter.

    "So strong, senior brother. You might be able to surpass this Jiang Yijian."

    In the dark, Chen Mingyang watched a demon and a person fighting intensely, his face filled with seriousness.

    "Hard to say."

    Qi Yunzhao shook his head. The sword cultivators of the Cloud Sword Sect are known for their prowess in battle. Jiang Yijian is also the top cultivator at the Hidden Sword Peak, and his strength is among the best among the Nascent Soul cultivators.

    "Senior brother, what should we do?"

    "Let''s wait and see. If both sects lose, we can kill the demon and take the treasure. If both sects win, we can still kill the demon and take the treasure. Either way, I''ll take advantage of this situation."

    Qi Yunzhao sneered. Taking advantage of the situation, no matter what, they were already in an unbeatable position. They wouldn''t lose out no matter what happened.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159

    Wilderness - Land far away from cities and towns

    The Five Elements Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect, consisting of eight people, are at war with the demonic tribe. However, they are not at an advantage because the Heavenly Wolf King has more fourth-order demonic beasts under itsmand.

    But cultivators are not at a disadvantage either. The biggest strength of cultivators is their ability to use tools. These Nascent Soul Ancestors are all well-off, with at least three to five protective treasures on their bodies. The demonic tribe, on the other hand, can only rely on their physical strength to resist.

    On the other hand, Jiang Yijian has gained the upper hand. After dozens of rounds of battle with the Heavenly Wolf King, he has only managed to break two of Jiang Yijian''s protective treasures, while the Heavenly Wolf King is heavily injured and can only rely on its strong self-healing abilities to endure.

    "The Wolf Swallows the Moon"

    The Heavenly Wolf King became anxious. Seeing that the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit was about to ripen and the enemy was still so stubborn, it instantly used its innate ability, Moon Howling Heavenly Wolf.

    Jiang Yijian saw the body of the Heavenly Wolf King suddenly grow to a height of several tens of yards, and felt a sense of danger. Just as he was about to create some distance, he felt a strong force pulling him towards the Heavenly Wolf King''s mouth, causing his body to be uncontrobly swallowed.

    This is the Heavenly Wolf King''s innate ability, cultivated to the extreme, capable of swallowing even the moon in the sky with a single bite.

    "Senior Brother Jiang""Senior Brother Jiang"

    The Nascent Soul of the Cloud Sword Sect became anxious and wanted to go rescue, but unfortunately, they were all entangled by their opponents and couldn''t free themselves.

    "It''s our turn to take action. I will deal with the Heavenly Wolf King, and you all handle the other fourth-ranked demonic beasts."

    Qi Yunzhao left a few words, suddenly made a move, and his flying sword appeared behind the Heavenly Wolf King. He nearly chopped off the wolf king''s head with one swing.

    "Awoo"

    The Heavenly Wolf King was hurt by the sword strike. It turned around, looked at Qi Yunzhao, and pounced, intending to bite him to death.

    "Trapped"

    Qi Yunzhao was agile and evaded this attack. He quickly used a rope-like magical treasure, which expanded in the wind. A one-meter-long rope turned into several hundred meters long, coiling around the Heavenly Wolf King and securely binding it.

    "Ah..."

    The Heavenly Wolf King couldn''t stand being trapped, struggling desperately. Its body swelled up again, and the rope-like treasure showed signs of cracking.

    "Burn the sky and boil the sea."

    Qi Yunzhao didn''t dare to approach. The Heavenly Wolf King was extremely dangerous at this moment, so Qi Yunzhao directly cast a spell.

    Countless fireballs fell from the sky, hitting the Heavenly Wolf King. The Heavenly Wolf King felt pain again and started howling.

    "Be careful, senior brother."

    The hurt Heavenly Wolf King once again unleashed its supernatural power. This time, it was the wolf hair on its body. Hundreds of them shot out. Seeing this, Qi Yunzhao summoned a shield to protect himself.

    "Boom."

    However, among these wolf hair, there was a wolf tooth shooting towards them. It was the Heavenly Wolf King''s treasure, a wolf tooth shed and refined through a simple process.

    The wolf''s fangs pierced through Qi Yunzhao''s shield, then pierced through his protective energy. Qi Yunzhao was thrown backwards and arge gash appeared on his abdomen.

    "Beast, you''re asking for death."

    Chen Mingyang took hold of Qi Yunzhao while a giant cauldron appeared. It smashed heavily onto the Heavenly Wolf King, sending him flying and causing a small mountain to copse.

    "Bang"

    However, the Heavenly Wolf King had also freed himself at this time. He crouched low, his bloodthirsty gaze sweeping across the scene.

    "Together, let''s kill this beast and share the treasures."

    Qi Yunzhao reappeared, his wounds quickly healing. As a wealthy Nascent Soul cultivator, he had plenty of healing treasures, after all.

    "I''m going to eat all of you."

    The Heavenly Wolf King spoke with a human voice and then rose up using his own strength. His two front paws instantly grewrger, and his sharp ws gleamed with a chilling light.

    "Boom"

    Before the Heavenly Wolf King could take action, a sudden change urred. The Heavenly Wolf King''s abdomen exploded, and Jiang Yijian emerged from within, covered in slime.

    "Senior Brother Jiang"

    "Yes, Brother Jiang"

    "Brother Jiang is not dead"

    Upon hearing that Jiang Yijian was not dead, the Cloud Sword Sect''s Nascent Soul disciples were overjoyed. This was great news.

    "Qi Yunzhao, you can step back now. The Heavenly Wolf King is mine."

    "How is Brother Jiang doing?"

    "Haha, you just have to watch."

    Jiangughed coldly, and then a precious sword floated above his head.

    "Let''s see what Senior Brother Jiang can do."

    Qi Yunzhao didn''t argue with Jiang, he had already realized that the Heavenly Wolf King still had the power to fight. He went to deal with the other fourth-tier monsters first.

    "You beast, I''m going to skin you alive."

    "Human, I''m going to eat you."

    Jiang and the Heavenly Wolf King collided once again, but Jiang obviously didn''t have the advantage he had before. He was sucked into the Wolf King''s stomach, where the Wolf King instinctively tried to assimte him. To resist this assimtion, Jiang used a secret technique to protect himself. Otherwise, he would have been assimted long ago.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    They fought in closebat, with Jiang using his sword and the Wolf King using its sharp ws, which were its best weapons.

    "Its ws are a problem."

    In the midst of the fight, Jiang realized that one of the Wolf King''s ws had a problem, recalling the one that Lin Batian had auctioned off.

    "Kill"

    Jiang Yijian reacted instantly. He swung his sword towards the w of the Heavenly Wolf King, who instinctively resisted with its w and attempted to grab Jiang Yijian''s throat with its other w.

    "*St*"

    Another w of the Heavenly Wolf King fell down, while Jiang Yijian managed to avoid a fatal blow to his throat. However, his shoulder was nearly crushed, forcing him to quickly step back and take out a healing pill.

    "*Howl*"

    The Heavenly Wolf King let out a miserable cry and then escaped. It had already suffered serious injuries, and continuing the fight would only lead to its death. The fourth-level demons like the Thunder Cloud Beast would not hesitate to tear it apart and devour its Demon Core, allowing them to advance and be stronger.

    The world of demons is even more cruel than that of humans.

    But before the Heavenly Wolf King left, it wanted to swallow the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. It had guarded this spiritual medicine for hundreds of years and couldn''t waste it. Moreover, the medicinal power of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit could also heal its injuries.

    The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit grew on the nodes of the spiritual veins within the Heavenly Wolf King''sir. The Heavenly Wolf King instantly shrank its body and prepared to rush into the cave to devour the fruit.

    "Run away, wicked creature!"

    Upon seeing this, Jiang Yijian was instantly shocked. Ignoring his injuries, he wielded his sword and chased after the Heavenly Wolf King.

    Before he could y the Heavenly Wolf King with his flying sword, a sudden change urred. A long spear descended from the sky and pinned the Heavenly Wolf King to the ground at the entrance of the cave.

    The force of the spear surged, knocking Jiang Yijian''s flying sword away.

    "Woof..."

    In an instant, the Heavenly Wolf King returned to its original form. It howled and struggled, but couldn''t break free at all. The spear emitted a strange spiritual power, making itpletely weak and destroying its vitality.

    "Anhua CityLin family"

    "It is I, esteemed Taoist friends. Please allow me to introduce myself."

    Lin Batian gracefully descended from mid-air and stood before Jiang Yijian.

    "Lin Batian, do you dare to steal food from the Three n''s hands in Anhua City, do you not want to get along?"

    "Taoist Friend Jiang, we can''t be so domineering as human beings, the Wilderness doesn''t belong to the three families. You can''t defeat the Heavenly Wolf King, but I won. Any problem?"

    "Ha ha, clever tongue, no matter how much you talk today, you can''t change the fact that you stole treasures from us."

    "Oh well, since we can''t exin it clearly, let''s settle it with our strength then."

    "You..."

    "What ''you'', I''ll just steal from you. What can you do? If you have the ability, steal it back. If not, shut up."

    Lin Batian said boldly, he revealed his true intentions, no more pretending. He''s going to steal from you, so what? If you have the ability, steal it back.

    "Then let me learn from Taoist Friend Lin''s skills today. Where are the disciples of Cloud Sword Sect?"

    "Senior Brother Jiang, we''re here."

    The Nascent Soul from the Cloud Sword Sect stood in front of Jiang Yijian. At this moment, the fourth-level demon beasts saw the defeat of the Heavenly Wolf King and fled in panic. They didn''t pursue them, but instead chose to deal with Lin Batian.

    The people from the Five Elements Sect and the Zhonghang Sect also didn''t go after the remaining demon beasts. They gathered together, forming three directions, surrounding Lin Batian.

    "I love group battles the most. Let''s see how powerful the Nascent Soul of the dominant sect in Yun State is."

    Lin Batianughed and reached out, grabbing his long spear. With a shake of his hand, the tip of the spear trembled and the abdomen of the Heavenly Wolf King exploded. The already severely injured Heavenly Wolf King instantly perished.

    "Friend Nie, the strength of Anhua City is already strong enough. We cannot let them obtain the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Let''s cooperate..."

    "Friend Qi, Anhua City doesn''t need a fourth overlord. If we cooperate..."

    Jiang Yijian sent a message to Nie Wuyuan and Qi Yunzhao. Not only did he want the Cloud Sword Sect to join forces against Lin Batian, but he also wanted to bring together the Five Elements Sect and the Zhonghang Sect.

    The two sects quickly agreed. Lin Batian''s appearance was highly disliked by them. When did Anhua City, with its influence in Yun State, have the right to interfere in their affairs? They must give Lin Batian a profound lesson and make him understand why the three sects are the overlords.

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160

    Wilderness, the King of the Heavenly Wolves''ir.

    Lin Batian watched themmunicate through telepathy, not interrupting. After the three sects finished their discussion, Lin Batian spoke, "Have you reached a decision? If not, I will give you another hour to heal your injuries and restore your spiritual power."

    "Lin Batian, this is yourst chance. Leave now, and your life will be spared. Anhua City''s thousands of Lin family descendants will also be safe."

    "Are we going to fight or are we going to keep wasting time like women?"

    "Attack!"

    "Die!"

    Ouyang Qing from the Zhonghang Sect took the initiative to attack because Lin Batian''sment about women annoyed her. Among the eleven Nascent Soul cultivators present, she was the only female.

    Swords were the main weapon for cultivators, so in an instant, eleven flying swords flew towards Lin Batian. His momentum intensified, and he wielded a spear that transformed into countless afterimages. The eleven flying swords were instantly knocked away.

    "Boom!"While wielding his flying sword, Lin Batian also unleashed a powerful spear attack towards Ouyang Qing, who quickly used her shield to defend herself. But in the next moment, she was sted away along with her shield by the force of the spear.

    "Sunny"

    Upon witnessing hispanion being attacked, Chen Mingyang became filled with anger. He put away his flying sword and summoned his ownrge cauldron, which he then hurled towards Lin Batian. However, Lin Batian swiftly thrust his spear, causing it to collide with the cauldron. In an instant, the cauldron slipped from Chen Mingyang'' grasp and flew towards a distant mountain, crashing into its peak.

    The other people''s flying swords quickly arrived beside Lin Batian, but he emitted a red light that rendered their attacks ineffective.

    "Limitless Divine Light"

    Seeing that the flying swords couldn''t prate Lin Batian''s defenses, Nie Wuyuan immediately cast a spell. A spiritual light flew towards Lin Batian, aiming to strike him.

    "Flowing Cloud Sword Technique"

    "Sword Manual"

    "Broken Heart Palm"

    "Purple Gold Divine Sound"

    The rest of the people also disyed their own extraordinary skills, and various techniques appeared almost simultaneously.

    "Sweeping through a thousand troops"

    Lin Batian shouted loudly, sweeping his long spear, and the force of the spear surged out like a flood, annihting everyone''s attacks.

    Seeing this scene, all the Nascent Souls were dumbfounded. What kind of strength was this? This was the attack of the ten of them, and Nie Wuyuan, Qi Yunzhao, and Jiang Yijian were experts among the Nascent Souls, especially Jiang Yijian. It wasn''t an overstatement to say that he was the top among the Nascent Souls. Even if he was seriously injured, he shouldn''t be underestimated.

    "Now it''s my turn"

    Lin Batianughed loudly and then advanced with his spear. The first one he targeted was Jiang Yijian. Whoever was the strongest, he would fight against them.

    "Sword Canon, giving birth to all things, forming a formation"

    Jiang Yijian forced out a mouthful of blood, spraying it onto his own sword. The sword transformed into more than ten others, forming a sword formation to protect him.

    Lin Batian didn''t care about that much. He fiercely stabbed with his long spear, not knowing how many spears he had stabbed in the blink of an eye. Jiang Yijian''s sword formation instantly shattered, and he ignored the attacks of the others, making it difficult for them to break his defenses.

    "Puh"

    The sword formation shattered, and Jiang Yijian spat out a mouthful of blood as he was struck by Lin Batian, sending him flying.

    "It''s your turn now."

    Lin Batian instantly changed direction again and aimed at Qi Yunzhao.

    "Step by step, a lotus blooms."

    Qi Yunzhao frowned and activated his spiritual power. Red lotus flowers bloomed one after another, instantly covering the surroundings, sweeping towards Lin Batian.

    "One spear can break countless methods, haha."

    Lin Batianughed. No matter what spell or technique the opponent used, he used a simple move: thrusting out a spear. The spear blossomed with powerful force, sweeping away those red lotus flowers, which exploded instantly.

    Chen Mingyang used arge pot to block the strong force of the spear, protecting Qi Yunzhao from harm.

    "Attack unmatched, defense invincible."

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    Qi Yunzhao wondered, what kind of creature is this? How can there be such a powerful Nascent Soul in Yun State? Is this still a Nascent Soul?

    "Cloud Sword Sect focuses on offense, Five Elements Sect focuses on defense, Zhonghang Sect serves as a distraction."

    Jiang Yijian is back again, like an unstoppable cockroach. Even though covered in blood, he can still fight.

    Upon hearing Jiang Yijian''s words, the others from Five Elements Sect began using defensive spells, releasing bursts of spiritual energy. Zhonghang Sect started casting spells to distract, while only the Cloud Sword Sect Nascent Soul gathered in front of Jiang Yijian, joining forces to conjure a giant sword of light to strike at Lin Batian.

    With someone giving orders, the situation immediately changed. Lin Batian''s attacks were weakened by some and resisted by others. In the end, the group was unharmed.

    "Very good, very good. Now let''s taste my Overlord Spear."

    Lin Batianunched more than ten attacks, but none of them had any effect. He finally realized that he had underestimated them.

    "Try to stop me with this move. If you can''t, I''ll turn around and leave."

    Lin Batian said to everyone, and then his spear grew much bigger in his hand, like a towering pir. A terrifying pressure emanated from the spear.

    "Defend with all your might."

    Jiang Yijian''s face turned pale. He shouted loudly, then summoned a protective shield of spiritual energy, and the others quickly added their own spiritual energy to strengthen the shield.

    "Boom!"

    In just one second, the spear descended and pierced heavily into the protective shield, causing a shockwave that shattered everything around - the mountains, trees, and rocks.

    "We stopped it!"

    "It''s not over yet. Dodge!"

    Lin Batian roared, and the enormous spear instantly started spinning. Cracks immediately appeared on the protective shield.

    "Retreat"

    Seeing that they couldn''t stop it, Jiang Yijian shouted loudly and everyone immediately scattered.

    "Pfft"

    With one swift strike, the long spear broke through the protective shield and pierced into the ground, leaving only the tail of the spear exposed. Lin Batian gestured and the spear flew back into his hand.

    "How about it, do you surrender?"

    Lin Batian spoke to the crowd, but the eleven people had gloomy faces and no one replied.

    They surrendered, they were defeated against their will. Such power had never been seen before.

    "Lin Batian, don''t be arrogant. Even if you are strong, can your Lin family be the same as you? My Five Elements Sect..."

    Guo Yunfeng, filled with anger, started to speak, but Nie Wuyuan immediately covered his mouth to prevent him from speaking.

    "Threatening my Lin family,e on"

    "If you have the ability,e and kill. My Lin family has two thousand descendants, all of them are the descendants of Lin Batian. Kill us all and I''ll just be born again. I just don''t know how many people from your Five Elements Sect can stop Lin Batian''s killing spree."

    Lin Batian''s killing intent was overwhelming as he said to Guo Yunfeng, his chilling intention made him terrified.

    "Lin Batian, today we lost, we''re not as skilled as others, there''s nothing more to say."

    Jiang Yijian said, now he didn''t want to anger Lin Batian, if he were to make a move against them, no one could stop him. As for the aftermath, Soul Changing Ancestor would handle it. He didn''t believe Lin Batian could surpass Soul Changing Ancestor.

    "Oh no"

    Suddenly, Lin Batian shouted loudly, then turned around and threw a spear, sting onto the mountain of the Heavenly Wolf King''sir. The mountain immediately cracked, and falling rocks continued to rain down, while a golden light burst out from the midst of the falling rocks.

    "Zhang Wanjing "

    "Zhang Wanjing"

    The people from the Five Elements Sect were all surprised when they saw who came out - it was Zhang Wanjing!

    "Um..."

    Guo Yunfeng didn''t know how to speak for a moment. Did you grow a pair of lion''s hearts? Why are you ying this trick now?

    "Zhang Wanjing from the Five Elements Sect, I''ve heard about you. Give me the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit and I won''t kill you."

    Lin Batian took a deep breath and stared at Zhang Wanjing. Zhang Wanjing shook his head.

    "Don''t make me kill you."

    "Ancestor Lin, I''m sorry, but the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is now mine."

    "Looks like you don''t understand the meaning of not shedding blood."

    "Goodbye."

    Zhang Wanjing smiled and then he disappeared.

    "Sixth-level Teleportation Symbol"

    "Can''t escape, will track for thousands of miles"

    Lin Batian figured out that Zhang Wanjing''s disappearance was caused by activating the sixth-level Teleportation Symbol. He felt annoyed because it would take a long time for his golden core to activate a sixth-level spiritual talisman. If he had known earlier, he wouldn''t have wasted time talking.

    Lin Batian also disappeared, leaving everyone looking puzzled.

    "Senior Nie, aren''t you going to help?"

    "Zhang Wanjing is asking for trouble, me no one else"

    Nie Wuyuan hadn''t said anything yet. Guo Yunfeng smirked and Nie Wuyuan frowned, saying, "Don''t disturb, Zhang Wanjing has the Soul Changing Ancestor''s Life Talisman. It''s not that easy for him to die."

    "The esteemed ancestor of your sect truly favors Zhang Wanjing."

    Jiang Yijian was taken aback and then remarked. No wonder Zhang Wanjing, at the Five Elements Sect, kept fooling around without dying. It turns out there''s another reason.

    Thousands of miles away, Zhang Wanjing, who had just appeared, saw Lin Batian chasing after him in the distance. His face also changed drastically. He still had a sixth-level Teleportation Symbol, but he didn''t have time to activate it. His cultivation was too low, and activating it once would deplete ny percent of his spiritual power, requiring at least fifteen minutes or more.

    "We''re counting on you now."

    Zhang Wanjing took out a beautifully decorated spiritual talisman from his neck. This is the Life Talisman bestowed upon him by the Soul Changing Ancestor. It is now hisst hope.

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161

    Wilderness, the remote area.

    Lin Batian sensed Zhang Wanjing''s presence and instantly caught up with him. Lin Batian was angry and felt like a praying mantis chasing a cicada while unaware of the oriole behind. He thought he was the oriole, but unexpectedly, someone had stolen his home. He couldn''t bear it.

    "Go."

    Even though Lin Batian was several tens of miles away, he brandished his long spear, believing that a mere golden core could not possibly withstand his ordinary strike.

    "No, that''s not right."

    But the next moment, Lin Batian felt something was wrong. Zhang Wanjing astonishingly didn''t dodge or evade. A creepy sensation crept up in Lin Batian''s heart.

    "Block it."

    Lin Batian shouted loudly. His spiritual power surged inside him and a purple bead floated above his head, emitting countless strands of energy to form a protective shield.

    "Boom"A long spear crashed into Zhang Wanjing, emitting a terrifying aura. A sword light directly knocked the long spear away, then lifted high and shed towards Lin Batian.

    "Bang"

    The sword light descended, causing a burst of ck light to explode on the protective shield. The space seemed to copse, and the shield shattered. The residual waves of the sword light struck Lin Batian, sending him flying for dozens of miles.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t fare any better. The powerful residual waves not only injured him but also knocked him unconscious.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Be careful."

    Miles away, Lin Jiang, Zhang Shuhua, and others were fighting against a group of independent cultivators. Suddenly, a muffled sound came from the distance, and a powerful force approached. Everyone''s face changed drastically.

    Lin Jiang and the others didn''t have time to escape, so they could only resist with all their might. However, even so, the residual waves still knocked everyone over.

    "Puff"

    Lin Jiang was no exception, his high-quality clothes immediately shattered, but fortunately, the clothes resisted the most intense force, and he only suffered minor injuries, coughing up some blood.

    "Senior brother, are you okay?"

    Lin Jiang found Zhang Shuhua and stuffed a pill into his mouth.

    "I''m fine, let''s go and see what''s happening."

    "Ah!"

    "Let''s go and see, the Heavenly Wolf King''sir is thousands of miles away from here. How could there be such a earth-shattering battle here?"

    "Are you trying to kill me?"

    "My father..."

    "Forget it, forget it, I owe you both."

    Lin Jiang clenched his teeth and flew away directly, flying for more than ten miles, summoning Small Shadiao directly.

    Big Shadiao was currently in a deep sleep. These past few years, Lin Jiang had been crazily feeding them Demon Cores, but he hadn''t managed to obtain a Fourth Order Demon Core. Lin Jiang couldn''t guarantee that Big Shadiao would be able to break through the Fourth Order. Fortunately, Small Shadiao hadn''t eaten many Demon Cores, otherwise he wouldn''t dare to investigate.

    "Oh my, it''s really Zhang Wanjing."

    Small Shadiao was extremely fast, blinking and appearing within a hundred miles. Lin Jiang was stunned to see Zhang Wanjing unconscious. How could Zhang Wanjing appear here?

    Looking at the scene around Zhang Wanjing made him take a deep breath. The surrounding mountains, rocks, and trees were all destroyed. There was a deep pit with a diameter of several kilometers on the ground, and Zhang Wanjing was inside the pit.

    "Master, wake up."

    Lin Jiang shook Zhang Wanjing, but there was no response. Trying to feed him a spirit pill also didn''t work. Lin Jiang started to panic.

    "Ying, ying..."

    Suddenly, Small Shadiao sounded the rm. Lin Jiang quickly stood up and turned around to see Lin Batian staring at him coldly.

    At this moment, Lin Batian was also covered in blood, in a very bad situation.

    (Tranted by Gravity Tales ??)

    "Sixth BrotherLin Jiangг┐"

    "Grandfather, it''s me, Lin Wu."

    Lin Jiang bravely said that when he entered the Five Elements Sect, he didn''t use any disguise skills. He couldn''t show his true identity, otherwise the sect wouldn''t ept him. So, all these years, he always presented himself as his true self.

    "It''s you."

    Lin Batian snapped back to reality. In that moment just now, he had indeed been lost in thought.

    In his lifetime, he had many children. At first, besides his Eldest Brother Lin Shan, he didn''t pay much attention to them. But as his children kept dying, he started valuing the ones who were still alive more and more. The bonds of blood were something that couldn''t be severed by anyone.

    "Grandfather, it''s me."

    "How did you join the Five Elements Sect?"

    "Grandfather, I have a Five Spiritual Roots talent. I can''t find suitable cultivation techniques anywhere else except in the Five Elements Sect."

    "Alright, give me Zhang Wanjing ande back to the Lin family with me."

    "Ah!"

    Lin Jiang eximed, wondering what his master was doing. Lin Batian intended to eliminate a fully cultivated golden core practitioner from the Five Elements Sect, which would greatly offend the sect.

    "How dare you defy me?"

    "Grandfather, may I ask why?"

    "Zhang Wanjing stole my Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Is that reason enough?"

    "It is, but grandfather, I can''t hand him over to you."

    "Grandpa, isn''t your master better than you?"

    "No, it''s precisely because I am devoted to the Lin family that I can''t give it to you."

    "Hehe, go on, I''m listening to your clever excuses."

    "Grandpa, Zhang Wanjing holds a special position in the Five Elements Sect. He is a symbol of the practical faction and is favored by the Soul Changing Ancestor of the Five Elements Sect. If you kill him, the Soul Changing Ancestor will surely destroy the Lin family. Grandpa, you need to consider the Lin family''s situation."

    "Just now, I beat up the Nascent Souls of the Five Elements Sect, Zhonghang Sect, and Cloud Sword Sect."

    "What?"

    Lin Jiang was dumbfounded, finding it difficult to ept this news. When did Lin Batian be so strong?

    "Give me the person, quickly. My patience is limited."

    "Grandpa, you must think carefully. If you kill Zhang Wanjing, there will be no turning back. The Five Elements Sect and the Lin family will definitely go to war."

    "Don''t force me to kill you as well."

    Lin Jiang''s mind was racing, oh no, Lin Batian was making him choose between Zhang Wanjing and Lin family. Who should he choose?

    From a family and logical perspective, choosing the Lin family at this moment was the best option. But Lin Jiang wasn''t willing. He had been plotting in the Five Elements Sect for decades, all to gain support from a powerful ally. If Zhang Wanjing broke through to the Nascent Soul stage, as his personal disciple, Lin Jiang could gain numerous benefits in the Five Elements Sect. Just look at his position in the Five Elements Sect''s stronghold over the years.

    "Grandfather, how about we make a deal?"

    "What qualifications do you have to make a deal with me?"

    "I do. Grandfather, I''ve obtained the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, which can help the Lin family gain a Nascent Soul. I can promise you that within a hundred years, I''ll send a fourth-rank Aurora falcon to the Lin family. And if the Lin family faces any difficulties in the future, I''ll bring at least two Nascent Souls to assist them."

    "What''s the use of a Nascent Soul?"

    "Then what about Soul Changing?"

    "Can you convince someone to perform Soul Changing?"

    "Sure, I found something valuable outside, and I can use it to invite Soul Changing."

    Lin Batian also started weighing the pros and cons. Purple Origin Taoist Fruit wasn''t really important to him. If he could find some help from Soul Changing, then swapping it for another Purple Origin Taoist Fruit wouldn''t be a loss.

    "You make a promise with your heart."

    "Okay, if I lie and can''t fulfill my promise in the future, let me lose 3,000 years of lifespan. Grandpa, is that enough?"

    "Alright, I''ll wait for the day you fulfill your promise. Within a hundred years, send the fourth-order Aurora falcon to the Lin family. Otherwise, I''ll personally take care of them."

    Lin Batian nodded, then immediately flew away. His injuries were severe, and he needed to go back and heal. He was afraid that the three Nascent Soul sects would chase after him, and he wouldn''t be a match for them then.

    As soon as Lin Batian left, Lin Jiang carried Zhang Wanjing on his back, got on the Aurora falcon, and let Small Shadiao escape at the fastest speed.

    "Don''t go to the stronghold."

    On the way, Zhang Wanjing''s faint voice came, and Lin Jiang got a big fright.

    "Master, you..."

    "I heard everything."

    "I''m sorry, master."

    "Find a ce to settle first, then head north."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang was very nervous at this time, but could only do as Zhang Wanjing said.

    Heading north all the way, flying for over ten thousand miles, Lin Jiang dared not go any further. No one knew which territory of the monster they would enter. Lin Jiang found an open space tond and set up a formation with a battle array te.

    "Tell me about your identity."

    "Yes, master. The disciple''s real name is Lin Wu, I am the son of Lin Batian''s sixth son, Lin Jiang. My father..."

    Lin Jiang couldn''t hide anymore. He had already revealed everything he could, including his identity and even the things about Huangmu Vige.

    "You are a ruthless person too, willing to give up your cultivation to join the Five Elements Sect."

    "Master, being an independent cultivator is tough. One''s whole life is filled with loneliness and helplessness. It''s even hard to find a suitable technique. I can only resort to this n."

    "Why don''t you go back to the Lin family?"

    "Although I am a descendant of the Lin family, I grew up outside since childhood and have no emotional connection with the Lin family. If I were to go back, I would be the third generation of the Lin family, even on the level of the ancestors. How could those descendants of the Lin family ept me?"

    "That''s true."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded, understanding this logic. Although a family is bound by blood, feelings develop through spending time together day and night. It''s impossible for anyone to ept a stranger suddenly bing their ancestor.

    "Master, I had no choice but to hide my identity. Please forgive me."

    "Have I med you?"

    "Ah"

    "In these past few decades, I have witnessed everything you have done. If you were a spy for the Lin family, I would have definitely executed you. No need for further discussion."

    Zhang Wanjing said that, apart from hiding his true identity, he was extremely pleased with Lin Jiang. He could work with him at Internal Affairs Hall, help him with farming outside, and even go on adventures in the Wilderness. Zhang Wanjing was dedicated and had noints. In fact, he had been supporting Lin Jiang all along, including just now, which is why he was able to say so much.

    "Master..."

    "There''s no need to say much. I am not an overly conservative person. As long as you don''t do anything harmful to the sect, everything will be fine."

    "Yes, Master."

    "I will help you fulfill your promise to Lin Batian."

    "Ah"

    "Do you really possess a treasure that could persuade Soul Changing?"

    "No, no, I originally wanted to let Master understand this feeling."

    "Well then, take this thing. I''m going to leave the sect. Please tell the sect for me. Either I die outside or surely return as a Nascent Soul."

    "Okay, Master, what is this?"

    "Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, a total of seven nts. They are all immature. After I leave, you and Shuhua can each have one as a reward. They can be considered as heirlooms in the future. The others can be nted in my cave. If I...never mind, you will figure it out when the timees."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. He didn''t know if he could break through to the Nascent Soul stage. If he failed, these things would be thest things he left for his son and disciple. It wouldn''t be in vain for them to follow him for decades.

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162

    Wilderness, deep inside.

    Zhang Wanjing left. He didn''t return to the Five Elements Sect. It was a very wise choice, but it also showed a change in Zhang Wanjing''s mindset. He had lost trust in the high-ranking members of the Five Elements Sect. Otherwise, the preferred ce for sect disciples to break through would be the sect itself.

    Lin Jiang rode the Small Shadiao back. Along the way, he began to reflect on his actions. In his mind, he asked himself if what he did was worth it.

    "When it came to choosing between the sect and the family, I chose the sect. It may be seen as being unfilial, or perhaps it''s simply choosing my own interests over the family''s. Human nature truly can''t withstand tests."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself, It may seem like a choice between the sect and the family, but it''s actually a choice between personal interests and family interests. Lin Jiang doesn''t have much to gain in the Lin family.

    However, the sect offers numerous benefits. Just with the various strongholds, hundreds of thousands of spirit stones can be earned in a year. These earnings are obtained through Lin Jiang''s status as Zhang Wanjing''s personal disciple. Otherwise, with Lin Jiang''s Building Foundation cultivation level, how could he possibly earn so much?

    And in the long run, Lin Jiang needs Zhang Wanjing to break through to the Nascent Soul stage. Once Zhang Wanjing reaches that level, even if he can''t be the leader of the Five Elements Sect, he will still be one of the high-ranking members of the sect. Lin Jiang''s interests will expand. If Zhang Wanjing can even invite the Soul Changing Ancestor back, the benefits obtained would be countless.

    These considerations of interests were not something Lin Jiang had thought about when he made his choice. He could only rely on his instincts, and his instincts chose personal interests.

    "I''m truly a hypocrite."Lin Jiang sighed deeply after a long time. It''s so hypocritical, but it''s just human nature.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior brother, how is the situation?"

    Returning to Zhang Shuhua and the others, Zhang Shuhua quietly asked.

    "Let''s talk when we get back. It''s not convenient to talk here."

    Lin Jiang nced around and already saw several golden cores. This is not a ce to talk.

    Disciples of the Five Elements Sect kept gathering, and the small andrge flying boats started picking up wounded soldiers. The Five Elements Sect has already begun to retreat because the monsters gathering at the Heavenly Wolf King''sir have started to return.

    One dayter, all disciples of the Five Elements Sect have retreated to their stronghold, while independent cultivators are still staying outdoors. The terrifying monsters are what awaits them. This is due to theck of information, misjudgments that can be deadly when there is no reliable source of news.

    "Where are Xiao Yi, Zhang Shuhua, and Zhang Wanjing?"

    "I apologize, Martial Uncle ancestor, we don''t know."

    "A personal student, a biological son, wouldn''t you all be unaware?"

    "We are only at the beginning stage, it''s normal to not know, right?"

    "What kind of attitude is that? Is this how you talk to Martial Uncle?"

    Guo Yunfeng was very unhappy. His mood was very bad because he received news that Zhang Wanjing''s Soul Lamp was still lit at the sect, which meant that Zhang Wanjing was still alive and likely took away the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit.

    "Disciple speaking honestly, what''s wrong with that?"

    "Speaking in a strange tone to elders, is that how your master taught you?"

    "My master taught me to respect elders for their virtue, not just for their age and status."

    "How dare you... "

    "Senior Brother Guo, it''s beneath you to argue with younger ones."

    Chen Xuanhua immediately spoke up, interrupting Guo Yunfeng''s words. If they continued, the conflict would escte.

    "Xiao Yi, Senior Brother Guo is also worried about the safety of your master. If you know where he is, please make sure he returns."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang said that he didn''t convey Zhang Wanjing''s words. There was no need to speak harshly, as it would only make people prepare in advance. It was better not to say it and let Zhang Wanjing quietly strive, and then astonish everyone.

    After several inquiries, Lin Jiang insisted that he didn''t know. They didn''t ask any more and let the two people go back.

    "Junior, can you tell me what happened?"

    "Senior, Master is fine. He obtained the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit and went elsewhere to seek a breakthrough."

    "Did my father really seed? How did he do it? Those were more than ten Nascent Souls."

    "I don''t know either."

    "Didn''t my father say anything?"

    "No, senior. Let''s return with the sect this time and take a break."

    Lin Jiang said. Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, which he saw, was picked by Zhang Wanjing with rough skills and has already been injured. It needs to be nted as soon as possible, otherwise it may wither. If this sixth-grade spiritual medicine withers, it will be a waste.

    "Okay, it''s been ten years since we went back. It''s time to go back and take a look."

    Zhang Shuhua nodded. He also wanted to go home and see his mother. He hasn''t been back for many years.

    Three dayster, most of the disciples of Five Elements Sect began to evacuate. Chen Xuanhua was asked to continue guarding the Wilderness. Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua were allowed to return to the sect to recover from their injuries. They were indeed injured.

    The flying boats of Five Elements Sect traveled in groups, and no one dared to provoke them. They arrived at the sect smoothly. In this battle, Five Elements Sect didn''t really suffer. If it weren''t for Guo Yunfeng''s previous casualties of hundreds of people, it could be said that they made a great profit. They obtained countless spiritual medicines alone.

    Lin Jiang first returned to his own cave and took a look, carefully examining the spiritual veins of the cave. In the end, he gave up and could only nt the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit in Zhang Wanjing''s cave.

    "Junior brother, isn''t this the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit?"

    "Yes."

    "Where did ite from?"

    "The Master gave him the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit from the Heavenly Wolf King''sir and he finished it all in one pot, without leaving any."

    "Wow, that''s really ruthless."

    "This is crucial for Master to control the Five Elements Sect in the future. We must take good care of it and keep it a secret."

    Lin Jiang said. If this batch of Purple Origin Taoist Fruit ripens and Zhang Wanjing can cultivate a few more Nascent Soul helpers, then the Five Elements Sect will truly be under Zhang Wanjing''smand.

    "Junior Martial Brother, this is a sixth-grade spiritual medicine. Can you grow it or should we ask Senior Martial Brother from the Spiritual Herb Garden?"

    "No, we can''t expose ourselves until the Master returns. I''ll give it a try first."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Growing these Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is not difficult as they have been cultivated for several decades to hundreds of years. It''s not like starting from seeds. We can use formations to simte the growth environment of the fruit. Whether it grows well or not can be determinedter. Once Zhang Wanjing returns, he will make the arrangements.

    If they were exposed now, they would definitely be seized by the sect. But Lin Jiang had a share of it and he wouldn''t allow that to happen.

    "Since Junior Martial Brother is confident, go ahead and give it a try. Senior Martial Brother will go out for a while."

    "Okay, you go first."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he finished nting the spiritual medicine and needed to go out as well. He hadn''t been to Medicine City for a long time, he needed to go and test his strength by listening to music.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Medicine CityгмPce Banquet

    Pce Banquet is a new and popr ce in Medicine City. It is spacious and filled with beautiful people. When the music starts, a group of singing maidens enters, dancing gracefully. Their bodies, barely concealed by sheer veils, twist and turn, making people''s blood boil.

    "Someone, blindfold me, I want to catch that person."

    "Senior Brother Yue, calm down, calm down."

    A person next to Lin Jiang shouted, ready to blindfold himself with a ck cloth. Lin Jiang quickly stopped him. Big brother, don''t embarrass yourself. If someone is going to y the role of a tyrant ruler, it should be me, not you.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, look, they have already started."

    "This is the lobby,e on, junior disciple, let me change to a private room for you."

    Lin Jiang was speechless and quickly called the waiter. He paid a high price and got a private room.

    Inside the private room, things became wild. Senior Brother Yue fully indulged himself, which made Lin Jiang roll his eyes and feel embarrassed. He knew it was time to leave.

    "Senior Brother Yue, see you in four hours."

    It didn''t take long for Lin Jiang to feel overwhelmed. Being a ruler, being here meant being a ruler, so why act humble?

    Four hourster, the two returned to the private room. The drinks and food were swapped for tea. They both sat down solemnly.

    "Senior Brother Yue, how did the discussion go?"

    Lin Jiang asked. This Senior Brother Yue was not Yue Qing, but his master Yue Lin, who was well-known in the sect.

    Yue Lin was a doer, even Zhang Wanjing highly appreciated him. But he was not like Zhang Wanjing in terms of personality. He had good rtionships with people in the sect, just like Yue Qing. He was also very sociable.

    This person knows how to do things and be flexible. When it''s time to be honest, they''re honest. When it''s time to be greedy, they''re not soft. This kind of person can seed anywhere.

    "The other party is asking for a price that''s too high, they want the Dan treasure."

    Yue Lin said, Lin Jiang has asked him to buy the fourth-grade Demon Core for many years. He has found a clue, but the other party is asking for too much, the Dan treasure. Who would be willing to give it?

    "With the Dan treasure, there''s nowhere I can''t exchange it for a fourth-grade Demon Core."

    "I think so too, that''s why I didn''t agree. Does Junior Brother Xiao need this Demon Core urgently?"

    "No hurry, even if it takes a few more decades."

    "Oh, I see. If Senior Brother Xiao is willing to increase the price by thirty percent, I guarantee I can get it for you."

    "Does Senior Brother Yue have a way?"

    "There is a way, just be tough. Since they don''t give me face, why should I give them face?"

    "Can"

    Lin Jiang paused in his tone, knowing what Yue Lin wanted to do. Yue Lin came from a declining family, but not yetpletely declined. So he dared to offer such a high price. If Yue Lin made their family even more ruined, maybe even broke and died, that fourth level Demon Core, whether they wanted to sell it or not, they had to sell it.

    This kind of thing is very bad, but in this world, it happens frequently. If you don''t have strength, having a treasure is the root of trouble.

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163

    Wilderness, Five Elements Sect''s base

    Without Zhang Wanjing''s supervision, Lin Jiang returned to his originalzy nature. He spent a full three months in Medicine City, doing nothing every day, just hanging around and listening to music. It was not until Zhang Shuhua couldn''t bear it anymore and came to take Lin Jiang back.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, you finally came back. If you didn''te back, I would have been so worried."

    When Yue Qing saw Lin Jiang, he screamed in an exaggerated manner. It''s not his fault because Zhang Wanjing left, and Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua returned to the sect''s base. There was no one in the base to protect them. With such a big business, he couldn''t handle it.

    "I went back to repair the spiritual weapon, it took a little time."

    Lin Jiang casually mentioned that his amazing quality special weapon was custom-made and couldn''t be repaired by regr craftsmen. It took a lot of time and spirit stones.

    "Anyway, I''m d you''re back. Without you here, I was worried and scared."

    "And what about people trying to steal our business?"

    "What do you mean there''s no one? There are plenty of people circling around us. Who knows what they''re up to.""Don''t worry, I''m back. I promise everything will be fine."

    Lin Jiangforted Yue Qing, saying that Zhang Wanjing had only run away, not died. As long as Zhang Wanjing''s Soul Lamp was still lit, those people wouldn''t dare to harm him. But if Zhang Wanjing really died, their business would be in trouble.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang asked about the business. Yue Qing''s response was very good. Three months ago, there was a big battle for the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, and many independent cultivators made a fortune. With money in hand, spending increased, and spirit stones came pouring in.

    Now, Lin Jiang and the others had aplete business. The wine they brewed in the workshop was low-end but had arge quantity. Besides that, they also sold mid-range and high-end spiritual wine, but those were not produced by themselves. They were sourced from Medicine City and other ces.

    Additionally, they were involved in things like Pills, Talismans, Items, and Formations. They couldn''tpare to Xingyuan Building, but the profits were still impressive for someone in the Building Foundation Period.

    However, the expenses are not small. Lin Jiang has connected the entirework, and he doesn''t cut corners when ites to rewards. Everyone gets their fair share, and it''s not just a few of them who are getting paid.

    After understanding the situation, Lin Jiang didn''t say much. He didn''t try to show off any clever business ideas because that''s all nonsense. The people in the cultivation world are not foolish. Besides, Lin Jiang''s sess in business relies on personal connections. No matter how talented someone is at running a business, it''s useless without connections.

    What is the most profitable business in the world? Is it innovation? No, it''s monopoly, having strong backing, and holding power.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Uncle Wei, Uncle Zou, and Uncle Yu, why are you here?"

    After a few days, Lin Jiang saw the three Martial Uncles at the base and greeted them.

    "Xiao Yi, didn''t you receive the news?"

    "No, my master left, and the sect assigned an unfamiliar Martial Uncle to temporarily manage."

    Lin Jiang exined that now someone else is temporarily in charge of the base, but he and Zhang Shuhua still handle all the important matters. The reason is simple: after ten years of operation, everyone in the base is loyal to Zhang Wanjing.

    "The martial sect intends to establish another base in the Wilderness, and they have set their eyes on our base."

    "Free ride?"

    "That won''t happen. They willpensate us, and we also want to take a break."

    Wei Yunshen said. They have been established at the base in the Wilderness for ten years. During these ten years, they have made a lot of profit. It''s time for them to retire and take the money back to cultivate and improve their abilities.

    "Martial Uncle, your base seems to be good. Why did you retreat?"

    "The casualties were too high. Many people have died over the years. Pay more attention to it. Your benefits will not be spared in the future."

    Wei Yunshen said. These ten years have been fine for the three of us, but many of our subordinates and even personal disciples have been lost. The Wilderness is still too dangerous.

    The three of them quickly left. Lin Jiang immediately sought Zhang Shuhua''s counsel. Zhang Shuhua said. I have heard a little about this matter. The three sects are acting together this time. The Heavenly Wolf King is already dead. Before a new king-level beast appears in the Wilderness, they want to suppress the survival environment for the Wilderness beasts as much as possible.

    "Senior martial brother, I''m not worried about that. I''m worried that if the sect takes big actions, we will be used as cannon fodder. Have you forgotten how Guo Yunfeng targeted us before?"

    "Junior apprentice, to be honest, if it''s really like this, we have no choice. Even if it''s my father, we can''t go against the sect''s orders. We are not special people. Dangerous missions always need someone to carry out. It''s not fair that others can go but we can''t."

    "Senior apprentice, I''m not afraid of battle, but I don''t want to die in vain. If there was a mission that would surely lead to death, would you go?"

    "Junior apprentice, you''re being extreme."

    "In any case, we need to be cautious. Senior apprentice, to tell you the truth, I have a way to save myself, but I''m worried about you."

    Lin Jiang said. With the Explosive Element Technique and excellent quality equipment, he will be unbeatable in the Building Foundation Period. Even in a mission where others would die, he''s confident he can escape, but the same cannot be said for Zhang Shuhua.

    "Let''s discuss itter. This matter won''t progress quickly. It''s not as simple as advancing the stronghold. We have to choose a location, clear the surrounding high-level beasts, and slowly establish the stronghold. It might take three to five years."

    Zhang Shuhua thought, in three to five years, maybe my father will be back. Who knows who will end up sacrificing themselves.

    Since Zhang Shuhua couldn''t be convinced, Lin Jiang stopped talking and just walked on. He wasn''t afraid anyway.

    In the following days, the news gradually spread. Everyone in the stronghold was discussing it, including the independent cultivators. The independent cultivators were naturally very unhappy because the sect waspeting with them for resources. However, their protests were useless against the Five Elements Sect.

    Half a monthter, the Five Elements Sect gathered hundreds of people again, not the previous batch, but new recruits, almost all of them skilled soldiers. It shows how powerful the Five Elements Sect is.

    After several discussions within the sect, the base established by Wei Yunshen and his twopanions was acquired by the sect. They don''t know the exactpensation, but they know that the three of them happily handed over the base.

    Using the current base as a starting point, the sect began to build a new base. The first task was to clear the fourth-level monsters in the Wilderness.

    After the death of the Heavenly Wolf King, the fourth-level monster group in the Wilderness was left without a leader. Based on past experience, it wouldn''t take many years for someone among them to advance and be a new monster king. It was said that they were suppressed by the Heavenly Wolf King before, so they couldn''t break through. Now that the Heavenly Wolf King was gone, they might find opportunities to break through. Of course, there could also be powerful monsters emerging from deeper within the Wilderness to rule this area.

    But no matter what, this is a vulnerable period for the monsters, an opportunity for the three major sects in Yun State to push forward and suppress the base together.

    Dealing with the fourth-level monsters doesn''t require the Building Foundation Period. That''s the job of Nascent Soul Ancestors. Even for other monsters, there are experts with golden cores in charge. Lin Jiang and hispanions were not assigned to fight.

    "Junior Brother, the news from above has been confirmed. We''re safe and won''t be sent to battle."

    A few dayster, Zhang Shuhua returned from the sect with information and told Lin Jiang that not only was he worried about being used as cannon fodder, but others at the base were also concerned. They were all Zhang Wanjing''s people, so Zhang Shuhua had to take on the responsibility to appease everyone, because he was the eldest senior brother.

    "I also received the news. We''re safe now, but we''ve been neglected."

    Lin Jiang nodded, but Guo Yunfeng still didn''t dare to harm them. However, they were being neglected. After the new stronghold was built, other people would be assigned to guard it, while Lin Jiang and his team would continue to stay at the old stronghold. When everyone moved to the new stronghold, there wouldn''t be many independent cultivatorsing here to rest and recuperate anymore. Without independent cultivators, this ce would be left empty. Lin Jiang''s business would also be ruined.

    "Being neglected is better than losing our lives. Do you know how many people have died during this time? Besides, you''ve made a lot of money in these years."

    "Okay, just let me vent."

    Lin Jiang replied, he was just venting. The new stronghold couldn''t be built in a short amount of time. He could still make some more money. Besides, Zhang Wanjing was the most important. If he came back with Nascent Soul cultivation, would there still be a problem finding a ce to make money?

    Afterward, Lin Jiang had a long chat with Yue Qing, telling him to constantly monitor the flow of people in the stronghold. If the number of people significantly decreased, they should reduce their investment. It didn''t matter if they didn''t make money, but they couldn''t afford to lose money.

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164

    Yun StateгмAnhua City

    When a auspicious cloud appeared over Anhua City, Lin Batian disappeared from his secluded room and appeared in the sky.

    "I wonder which esteemed ancestor has arrived."

    "Has City Lord Lin ever heard of the Cloud Sword Sect?"

    "It''s you, Jiang Yunchong! So, you''vee to seek revenge for Jiang Yijian?"

    Lin Batian smiled and said. Jiang Yijian''s ancestor, from the Cloud Sword Sect, a powerful Nascent Soul expert from several hundred years ago. Later, he disappeared from the ranks of elders in the Cloud Sword Sect. Some say he passed away, but those in the know believe he advanced to a higher level.

    "City Lord Lin is so arrogant, unbeatable with his Nascent Soul. I suppose he''s not afraid of someone like me who can only change souls. I''vee to learn a few moves."

    "The Cloud Sword Sect is really shameless. They send their young ones when they can''t win. Disgusting, they have no shame."

    "If City Lord Lin finishes speaking, he can go and die."

    Jiang Yunchong smiled and said. What use is there in arguing? Anhua City has angered so many this time. Death is inevitable.

    "Who said I''m going to die? If you die, it doesn''t mean I will too."

    "Well, then I might have to take action."

    "Wait, I''ll show you something."

    Lin Batian immediately said, then he threw out a jade scroll. Jiang Yun reached out and took the jade scroll, scanning it with his divine sense. His face changed dramatically.

    "You, you..."

    "Surprised, aren''t you? Unexpected, isn''t it?"

    "How could you show me this?"

    "Since you''ve seen it now, tell me if you''re convinced or not."

    "If I kill you, no one will know."

    "Is that so? My Lin family has thousands of people. Can you guarantee that there won''t be any escaped fish?"

    "You..."

    "Old man, remember, don''t look at everything randomly in the future, be careful not to go blind."

    "Lin family remnants, deserve to die."

    "If you keep insulting me, I will make ten thousand copies of the jade scroll and give each disciple of the Cloud Sword Sect a copy, burying you all."

    "Do you dare?"

    "Watch if I dare or not, anyway, if I die, I''ll take a few of you down with me."

    Lin Batian shrugged his shoulders and acted like a rogue, this made Jiang Yun Chong feel very helpless, unable to advance or retreat, it''s really a shame he shouldn''t have looked around randomly.

    "Brother Yun Chong, what''s wrong? Why aren''t you moving?"

    Just at that moment, two auspicious clouds floated over, each with a person inside.

    "Brother Feng, Brother Shi, why did youe here?"

    Jiang Yun rushed to look at the two people and said. Shi Yuntang from the Five Elements Sect and Feng Zhang from the Zhonghang Sect are both the Soul Changing Ancestors of their respective sects.

    "I heard that there is an extraordinary person appearing in Yun State, who single-handedly fought against eleven Nascent Soul cultivators. Such a hero naturally wants to pay a visit."

    "If I don''t take a couple of shes at this hero, it would be a shame."

    The twoughed out loud. They had both received urgent messages from their sects and rushed back specifically. Lin Batian is really fierce. If he continues to develop, Yun State will have another overlord. This would cause great losses for the three sects.

    "Both Senior Brothers are right. Feng brother, I''ll show you something good."

    Jiang Yun nodded, then expressionlessly threw the jade slip to Feng Zhang. Feng Zhang, after scanning it with his divine sense, had the same drastic change in expression as Jiang Yun. Then there was a deathly silence.

    "Senior Brother Jiang, Feng Brother, what good thing did you see?"

    "Shi Brother, you''ll know when you see it."

    Feng Zhang silently threw the jade slip to Shi Yuntang. After Shi Yuntang took it, he scanned it with his divine sense, silently cast a spell, and turned the jade slip into ashes.

    "Feng Zhang, Jiang Yun Chong, I''m your uncle."

    After a moment, Shi Yuntang scolded the two of them loudly, but they didn''t care, as scolding wouldn''t hurt them.

    "Hahaha..."

    Lin Batian watched as the three of them were about to start fighting, and he burst outughing.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Lin Jiang stood on the wall of the Five Elements Sect stronghold for a whole day. When it was getting dark, Zhang Shuhua came to his side and said. You''ve been watching for days, what are you looking at?

    "Counting people."

    "What?"

    "Before, there used to be about three to five thousand peopleing to the stronghold from various ces every day. But for the past five days, the daily flow has been around five hundred people. Five hundred people will be the approximate number of peopleing in the future, so the manpower at the stronghold should be reduced by eighty to ny percent, otherwise it will be a loss."

    "Are you still thinking about this?"

    Zhang Shuhua was a bit speechless. What does the point have to do with them? They still receive their pay from the sect, right?

    "Of course you have to think about it, it''s a big loss."

    "What about your businesses?"

    "Nonsense."

    "If there''s no business, there''s no business. Anyway, the pay from the sect is enough for you to use."

    "I can''t exin it to you. I''m leaving."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand. Besides their pay, they also receive money for missions while stationed at the base. If they were ordinary people, cutting back a bit might be enough.

    But Lin Jiang doesn''t have enough. His talent is so poor, how could he not use drugs properly? Plus, without money, how can he go talk to the little miss? Poor people won''t care about you.

    That evening, Lin Jiang appeared at Chunfeng Tower. Chunfeng Tower had very poor business now, and both Yue Qing and Sister Hua were worried. Their costs were much higher than Lin Jiang''s businesses.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, the spiritual wine was sent over, and they epted it. But the price isn''t as good as before. In the end, we won''t be making much money each month."

    Yue Qing told Lin Jiang that Wei Yunshen''s base had been taken over by the Five Elements Sect. However, Wei Yunshen''s disciples were still working there as stewards. After all, they were familiar with the situation.

    They had been cooperating before. Now, the new base had a huge increase in foot traffic, while the old one had a sharp decline in foot traffic. So Lin Jiang asked Yue Qing to increase the supply of spiritual wine. But the prices for retail and suppliers must be different.

    "It''s alright, it''s just a short-term setback. Wei Yunshen''s top disciple and I have a good rtionship. He has promised to reserve a few shops for me. The future might not be as good as previous years, but it will definitely be better than most people. Yue Qing, how about you go there and take charge?"

    "Senior Brother Xiao, let Jiang Shu go. I want to return to Medicine City."

    "Senior Brother Yue, are you nning to retire early?"

    "No, Sister Hua is getting old, and she can''t handle the constant running around anymore. I want to apany her for the rest of her life. The girls in the building are also reaching a simr age. We''ve earned enough money for retirement in these years. We don''t want to keep hustling."

    Yue Qing said, and Lin Jiang widened his eyes after hearing it. Is it true? Is it true? Yue Qing wants to take care of Sister Hua in her old age?

    Could it be true? Are they really in love?

    "Senior Brother Xiao, why are you looking at me like that?"

    "There are no outsiders here. You tell me honestly, what do you want to do? I can tell you, it''s okay to desire wealth, but don''t harm others."

    Lin Jiang looked around and set up a barrier. He said to Yue Qing.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, why are you saying this about me? Am I that type of person, Yue Qing?"

    "No?"

    "Really not. Alright, I admit it. I took a liking to Sister Hua''s secret stash of money. She has earned a lot these years and saved up even more than me. But I never thought of harming her. I truly want to support her in her old age."

    Under Lin Jiang''s gaze, Yue Qing honestly confessed that Sister Hua had given up cultivation many years ago. She only spends a little money on food and drinks, saving up everything she earns. He was supporting her in her old age, and that money belonged to him.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, Senior Brother Yue truly loves Sister Hua and wouldn''t do anything like that."

    "Okay, it''s up to you. Jiang Shu, do you want to go to the new base?"

    "Sure, there''s nowhere else to go back to the mountain gate anyway. Staying here might even bring us some fortune."

    Jiang Shu said that as a disciple without connections or background, going back to the mountain gate would only mean doing the least profitable tasks or the most dangerous ones. It would be better to stay here in Wilderness, where the danger is low as long as we stay in the base.

    "Alright, let''s arrange it like this for now. We''ll close down any business that can be closed and transfer anything that can be transferred. What do you think?"

    "Great. How about you, Senior Brother Xiao?"

    "I''ll hold my position."

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter. He couldn''t be happier with his current position. He didn''t have to work during the day anymore, just practice at night, even better than a typical nine-to-five job.

    From now on, he could ck off and practice during the day, and at night, he could have free time to do whatever he wanted. He also needed to improve his talisman technique skills or maybe go out and have some fun with Small Shadiao. As long as he worked hard, he wouldn''t have nothing to do.

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165

    Wilderness, old base

    The flying boat descended and the disciples of Five Elements Sect in the base bid farewell one by one to Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua, boarded the flying boat. The number of people in the old base dropped drastically, now less than five hundred per day. The disciples of Five Elements Sect in the base no longer needed so many people, they were all dismissed.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, Senior Brother Zhang, remember toe find me when you return to the sect."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, Senior Brother Zhang, take care."

    "Go back and focus on your cultivation. Don''t worry too much, we''ll return as champions."

    Lin Jiang also gave them individual advice and personally sent them onto the flying boat, then watched as they departed.

    "Stop looking, they''re all gone."

    "Such a big base, but less than fifty people remain. The prosperity and silence are just a thought away."Zhang Shuhua shook his head. Not long ago, this base was overcrowded, with over a thousand disciples from Five Elements Sect alone, plus independent cultivators and disciples of small factions, totaling tens of thousands of people. The whole base was very crowded, but now, the total number of people in the base is less than a thousand, and it''s already very deserted.

    "Isn''t this great? There are so many houses in the stronghold, you can just pick any of them."

    "Some find it hard to ept."

    "I think you''re silly. Isn''t it nice to live a peaceful life for a few years? Goodbye."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and walked away. He had a positive mindset and with his influence and power, he could livefortably. Even if he was alone, he could manage. With such a long lifespan, he could adapt to any environment.

    From then on, Lin Jiang started living a leisurely life. The number of visitors to the stronghold decreased each day, and the remaining disciples could handle itpletely. During the day, he checked in, painted spiritual talismans, or secretly slipped out of the stronghold to go fishing by ake.

    He released Small Shadiao to continue being a useful bird, hunting around and bringing back prey. He could also study the art of spiritual cuisine.

    Spiritual cuisine was aplex knowledge. One pot of stew made with various foods and medicinal ingredients with spiritual energy would be called spiritual cuisine. With hundreds of different ingredients carefullybined, it possessed various extraordinary effects.

    Lin Jiang had someone buy books on spiritual cuisine and studied them diligently. Combined with his willingness to experiment without regard to cost, his culinary skills in making spiritual cuisine kept improving, and even Zhang Shuhua enjoyed the benefits.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    To the north of the old base, there was ake. It wasn''t big, maybe only a few thousand acres, but it was very deep, at least a few hundred meters.

    This ce is abundant in a kind of fish that ispletely white. It tastes amazing. Before, it was selling very well at the base, almost disappearing. Now that the base has declined, in just two years, these fish have be more plentiful again.

    Lin Jiang loved eating fish. Thiske was not as terrible as the Yuntuo River, so of course he wanted to eat as much as he could. That''s why he would sneak out every once in a while to go fishing.

    "These days are so great. I don''t have to work nine to five, I still get my sry. I can leisurely fish during work, and no one cares. It''s like being a god!"

    Lin Jiangy on the grass by theke, next to him was the fish grilling machine he had made. Actually, it was activated by a spell, making the grill constantly rotate so that the fish wouldn''t be overcooked. There were more than ten fish on top.

    "Fish, fishбн"

    Small Shadiao stood by theke, looking at a row of fishing rods in front of him. Some of them were shaking, indicating that a fish was caught. Small Shadiao reminded Lin Jiang, but he pretended not to hear.

    Small Shadiao got angry and snorted, then dove into theke andter emerged with arge fish in his mouth.

    It walked up to Lin Jiang, waved the fish in front of him a couple of times, then tossed it up in the air. It opened its mouth, and the fish fell right into it. With a "gulp" sound, the entire fish was swallowed.

    "What a silly creature!"

    After looking at it, Lin Jiang burst intoughter. Did the little silly creature really think he would get angry?

    After a while, the fish was cooked. Lin Jiang took out a bottle of special drink and started barbecuing with some wine. The little silly creature leaned over and tried to snatch the drink.

    "Little silly creature, you are a magical animal, you can''t drink alcohol, really."

    "Drink, drink, drink!"

    "If you try to grab it from me again, I''ll get really angry. This is something I bought with great effort from Medicine City, it cost eighty special stones."

    "I''ll hit you!"

    The little silly creature ignored everything and just snatched the drink and tried to run away. Lin Jiang approached, they fought yfully, and that was the end of it; the silly creature pressed Lin Jiang to the ground and rubbed against him.

    "Damn it, third level is nothing! Once I advance to the golden core, I''ll pluck all your feathers!"

    Lin Jiang patted off the dust on his body andined. He couldn''t really beat Small Shadiao, unless he used the Master-servant Contract magic. That thing was like the tightrope spell that Tang Sanzang used on Sun Wukong, it couldn''t be undone.

    But Lin Jiang had never used it before, it hurt his feelings.

    Small Shadiao rolled its eyes at Lin Jiang, holding its spiritual wine and went to enjoy on the side. After finishing the spiritual wine, it imitated Lin Jiang andy beside him, basking in the sun. Lin Jiang pulled its bird leg and used it as a pillow.

    "Ying, ying..."

    Lin Jiang was about to take a nap when suddenly, Small Shadiao got up, made a sharp cry, and directly flipped Lin Jiang over.

    Lin Jiang stood up and expanded his spiritual awareness, seeing ripples appearing in the formation he set up.

    "Come out."

    Lin Jiang growled lowly, warning anyone who dared to approach him stealthily.

    "Lin Wu"

    In the ripples, a person appeared, and it was Lin Die.

    "Three, three..."

    Lin Jiang was startled and didn''t know whether to call her Third Sister or Third Auntie.

    "You Shadiao, can''t even recognize your own people, looking for trouble."

    Lin Jiang quickly gave Small Shadiao a bump on the head, then stuffed it back into the Spirit Beast Bag, not giving it a chance to protest. Only then did he open the formation.

    "Life is going well."

    "It''s okay, how did you find me?"

    "My father said, how did you infiltrate the Five Elements Sect? It wouldn''t be at my father''s orders, right?"

    "No, it''s all for the cultivation techniques."

    "The cultivation method of the Five Elements Sect indeed has its uniqueness, especially when ites to the Five Spiritual Roots. So, how is your cultivation progress?"

    "Great! Not just a little good, but very good. The cultivation method and my own nature are extremelypatible. The future looks clear, and as long as I follow the steps, at least I don''t have to worry about bottlenecks before reaching the Nascent Soul stage."

    Lin Jiang said, Lin Jiang was not lying. Thepatibility of the cultivation method is truly important. Although the previous Sitting Zen ssic also suited his situation, it was nowhere near aspatible as the Five Spirit Manual.

    "As long as you''re doing well, I can rest assured."

    "How is the Lin family? This time we''ve offended three major sects. Everything okay?"

    "It''s okay, everything has been resolved."

    "I haven''t heard any news from the Lin family, so I think everything should be fine."

    Lin Jiang said. Before, Guo Yunfeng was very angry. He thought that the Five Elements Sect wouldunch a major attack on the Lin family, but now it has been a while and there is no movement. I wonder how Lin Batian resolved the situation.

    "I came today mainly to see you, and also to bring you something. Please take it."

    "Peach, magical peach?"

    Lin Jiang took the storage bag handed to him by Lin Die, filled with magical peaches.

    "This is from Lin Ying, your biological aunt. These magical peachese from Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, the ce where your father lived for several decades."

    Lin Die said, causing Lin Jiang to shiver as memories flooded back.

    "Lin Ying also mentioned that if you return to the Lin family, she will give you back the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. It originally belonged to your father and should be passed down to you."

    "I can''t go back."

    "I understand. This time, my father asked me to ry a message to you. He doesn''t want you to return to the Lin family."

    "Ah!"

    "The Lin family will face a great disaster in the future. Everyone in the Lin family could possibly die. Father said you should continue to live in hiding, staying with the Five Elements Sect and keeping your connection to the Lin family strictly confidential."

    "What happened? Wasn''t the Lin family thriving? Why did they encounter a major disaster?"

    "I don''t know. Dad didn''t say. Just listen to him."

    "Why, why on earth?"

    "There''s no need for so many whys. Just listen and follow. You don''t have to fulfill the promises you made to my dad before. Just live your life well."

    "You''re ying games with me, saying half and leaving half. Are you trying to trick me?"

    Lin Jiang became worried. He couldn''t understand why the Lin family would face a major disaster and why he was being told not to go back.

    "Don''t ask me. I don''t know either. Just do as you''re told."

    "What about Lin Ying? Where is she?"

    "She''s in seclusion, preparing to break through to the Nascent Soul stage."

    "This, this..."

    "I won''t be able to visit you anymore, and nobody from the Lin family will be seen by you. Take good care of yourself from now on."

    "Three, Third Auntie, please don''t be like this, I''m a bit scared."

    "What are you scared of? Just pretend you don''t know anything, things will be the same as before."

    "No, I mean the big disaster, can we avoid it?"

    "I don''t know, dad hasn''t said anything."

    "How can he not say anything? It''s better to be prepared if he did."

    "We are already preparing, practicing is preparation. The big disaster won''t happen so soon, it will take a long time."

    "I..."

    Lin Jiang was feeling anxious and restless, his emotions were veryplicated, and he didn''t know what to say for a moment.

    "I''ll warn you again, don''t go to the Zhonghang Sect to meet Cao Ying, something terrible will happen. I have said my piece, and now I''m leaving."

    Lin Die finished speaking, lifted her flying sword, and flew away directly.

    "Third Sister, please exin clearly."

    Lin Jiang whispered, but Lin Die had already disappeared. Lin Jiang stomped his foot in frustration; Lin Die was really getting on his nerves.

    Giving him such a vague and confusing message was not fair. It was making him unable to sleep at night.

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166

    Medicine City, the grand residence of the Wang family

    The Wang family used to be a prominent n within the Five Elements Sect. It was because they once had a Nascent Soul cultivator who protected the family for hundreds of years, making the Wang family very prosperous.

    At its peak, the Wang family had one person at the Nascent Soul level and seven people at the golden core level. But that was all history from a thousand years ago.

    As time went by, the talents of the Wang family continued to wither. Now, the Wang family doesn''t have a single person at the golden core level. The highest cultivation level is only at the Building Foundation stage, and they are old with not much lifespan remaining. Most of the descendants of the Wang family are also not sessful.

    At this time, Wang Xingyun came to the main residence to pay a visit to his father, the patriarch of the Wang family.

    "Father, here are this year''s ount books. We are still running a deficit and the losses are huge. We need to find a solution."

    Wang Xingyun held a ledger and showed it to his grandfather, the ancestor of the Wang family. The ancestor of the Wang family had left behind abundant inheritance, with dozens of houses in Medicine City, hundreds of shops, and three spiritual mountains outside the city.

    However, as generations went by, most of these properties were lost. The majority of the expenses were their daily expenditure. Cultivating as a cultivator requires a huge amount of resources, but investing in resources doesn''t guarantee returns. It is possible to invest a massive amount of resources into a descendant, elevating their cultivation to the Building Foundation Period, but if they don''t bring benefits to the family, they would just be gone.

    It is even more likely that resources were invested without any improvement in cultivation, which is just a waste.Another expense is division. During the peak of the Wang family, there were thousands of members, spreading branches and leaves. However, if the family fails to produce someone who can unite various forces, it will lead to the division of the family.

    That''s exactly what happened to the Wang family. The main lineage of the Wang family failed to produce someone at the golden core level, and the other branches have cultivators at the Building Foundation stage. Naturally, they are dissatisfied with the family''s resources being focused on the main lineage and strongly demand a division. As generations passed, the Wang family has greatly declined. Apart from this grand mansion, they have sold off all other houses, shops, and the spiritual mountains.

    On weekdays, they rely on their family members to make some special medicines, magical objects, items, and formations. They do some small business, but all the ie goes to individuals, not the family. The family has no property and cannot gather people''s hearts.

    "How much is still missing?"

    "This year, seven children were found to have Spiritual Roots, and another eight people have reached the perfect stage of Qi Refining. And also..."

    "A shortfall of twenty thousand spirit stones, is it that much?"

    "Sigh, interpersonal rtionships are a big part of it. We also have to provide them with Building Foundation Pills. It''s so difficult, father. Is there anything in the family that can be sold?"

    "Get lost! Stop having ideas about the family. Do you think I don''t know what you''re thinking? The treasury is already empty!"

    "If you don''t want to contribute, then go! It''s not like I''m asking for money, it''s the family that needs money. Let your elder son take care of the household from now on, I won''t bother anymore."

    Wang Xingyun was also angry. He was just the second son in the family, and he still had an older brother above him. Why should his older brother be allowed to disregard everything as long as he cultivates, even though he hasn''t achieved anything yet? Wang Xingyun had to spend time and effort to make something.

    Wang Xingyun threw down the ount book, left angrily, and returned home. His wife startedining to him again, about today''s argument with her sister-inw, only talking about trivial matters. Even the children at home were crying non-stop. Wang Xingyun had nowhere to vent his anger, so after giving his son a beating, he left the house.

    Wang Xingwen wanted to drown his sorrows with alcohol, but when he thought about the spirit stone in his storage bag, he couldn''t bear to go to the tavern, so he settled for a random stall.

    "Ugh, is this really spiritual wine? It tastes like dishwater."

    Wang Xingyun took a sip of the cheap spiritual wine from the stall and immediately spat it out. When he was younger, the Wang family still had some influence, and they enjoyed a few good years. He couldn''t stomach this low-quality spiritual wine at all.

    "Isn''t this Junior Brother Wang? Why are you drinking here?"

    Wang Xingyun was about to get angry when suddenly a voice sounded. He looked up and saw Yue Lin standing in front of him.

    "Senior Brother Yue, what are you doing here?"

    "I was about to go to the Pce Banquet to listen to music. What about you?"

    "Me, I... "

    Wang Xingyun couldn''t say a word. Both of them were at the Building Foundation Period, but one could attend the Pce Banquet every few days to listen to music, while the other had to work hard for his family and couldn''t afford even a sip of good spiritual wine. He was suddenly filled with resentment.

    "Junior Brother Wang, let''s go together to the Pce Banquet. The drinks here are not meant for people."

    "Senior Brother, I am short on money."

    "With Senior Brother here, how can I let you pay? Senior Brother, please."

    "This doesn''t seem quite right."

    "What''s wrong? We''ve known each other for a long time, the Wang family and I. Let''s go, let''s go."

    Yue Lin was very enthusiastic and kept talking. Wang Xingyun resisted for a moment and thenplied. He had been to the Pce Banquet once, but he still couldn''t forget it after several years.

    Yue Lin told Wang Xingyun interesting stories about the Pce Banquet along the way. They quickly arrived at the entrance of the Pce Banquet, where a beautiful woman greeted them, offering warm towels to clean their faces and hands, wiping away the dust from their journey.

    Wang Xingyun couldn''t help himself when the fragrance hit him. He had been hungry and thirsty for too long.

    Yue Lin led Wang Xingyun to a private room, and soon four women came in, one on each side, cuddling up to them and quietly introducing the various offerings at the Pce Banquet.

    Wang Xingyun felt ufortable. The women next to him,pared to the ones at the Sweet Red Building, were just average here. He worried if his storage bag could handle it.

    Yue Lin was quite familiar with this ce. He ordered some popr offerings, and soon a singer came in and performed. Her beauty and figure surpassed the women around them.

    "Junior Brother Wang,e on, cover your eyes quickly. The next offering is called ''Eagle Catches Chick''."

    "Ah"

    "If you don''te, I''lle"

    Yue Lin didn''t care about all that, he covered his eyes and stretched out his hands to catch the group of women who giggled and dodged away. Wang Xingyun watched in amazement as Yue Lin seemed like an eagle catching a chick. He couldn''t believe this kind of game existed.

    I''ve never seen it before. He only came once to watch the performance in the hall.

    "They''re really good at ying!"

    Wang Xingyun shouted in his mind.

    "Haha, Junior Brother Wang, sorry for interrupting. You can continue ying."

    At this moment, Yue Lin had already caught a little chick and was about to leave the private room and go upstairs.

    "Can I do it too?"

    "Yes, you can, Fairy Elder."

    "Then I''ll join too."

    Evil mes surged up from the depths of Wang Xingyun''s heart. Ignoring everything else, he immediately also transformed into a big eagle and swooped down towards the chicks.

    Yue Lin made his way upstairs and reached a room where a man was waiting. He asked the woman in his arms to go into the room first.

    "Senior Brother"

    "Is everything arranged?"

    "Yes, everything is arranged. The eldest son of the Wang family will be in the room next to Wang Xingyun''s. There will be a great show tonight."

    "I''ve made arrangements for the follow-up. Within six months, I want to get what I want."

    "Does Senior Brother really want to bet on Zhang Wanjing?"

    "Bet? Among those high-ranking people, only Zhang Wanjing still has a conscience. The rest have lost their conscience to dogs."

    Yue Lin said grimly, it''s not that he insists on betting on Zhang Wanjing, but that the others are unreliable. They took the benefits and beautiful women, but they didn''t fulfill the promises they made to him. He can only bet on Zhang Wanjing now.

    "Yes, Senior Brother, within six months, the Wang family will definitely perish."

    "Go, just don''t mess up."

    Yue Lin waved his hand. Tonight is just an appetizer, the real show ising. It includes teasing Old Father to death, fighting for family property, and many other exciting scenes, none of them will be missed.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Wilderness, outside the Five Elements Sect''s base.

    The scene of a sibling fight is happening. Small Shadiao was pounced on by Big Shadiao from the sky to the ground, causing a crazy friction. Small Shadiao kept screaming for mercy.

    "Big Shadiao, don''t let it go. Beat it up for me."

    "You''ve been asleep for these past few years, while Small Shadiao has gone crazy. It said it wants to be the big brother now, and you have to be the little sister, with it pressing you down and causing friction."

    "And also, it ate up all the delicious food I saved for you. It didn''t leave a single thing."

    "It even said..."

    "It also..."

    "And also..."

    Every time Big Shadiao wants to be kind-hearted, there is always a voice telling him something. After it speaks, Big Shadiao bes even more ruthless.

    "Haha, good job! Good job! Let me teach you a lesson for looking down on me and stealing my special drink. You deserve it."

    Lin Jiang watched as Small Shadiao got beaten up and was so happy that he wanted to jump up. Big Shadiao hadn''t reached the fourth level yet, but he was at the peak of the third level, and his strength was much stronger than Small Shadiao''s. He had just awakened a few days ago.

    "Dog, dog..."

    Small Shadiao was getting really angry after being beaten up. After breaking free, he cursed at Lin Jiang. I''m not human, but you''re a real dog!

    "You dare to insult me? I''ll keep beating you up!"

    Lin Jiang became furious, and Small Shadiao realized something was wrong and immediately flew away. But now, it couldn''t escape from Big Shadiao. It was captured back after just a few moments.

    "Brother, brother..."

    "Big Shadiao is better after all. Let''s forget about today''s incident. We''ll have it catch a third-level monster as punishment."

    Lin Jiang said. We can''t let him buy all the third-level Demon Cores. The child is getting older and should learn how to get them himself.

    "Brother, brother..."

    Big Shadiao kicked Small Shadiao, and Small Shadiao flew away angrily, leaving Big Shadiao waiting for Lin Jiang to cook fish for it.

 Chapter 167

    Chapter 167

    Wilderness, the old base of the Five Elements Sect

    "If you want to ask for leave, just ask for leave. Why are youing to me? Is there still anyone managing the base?"

    Zhang Shuhua said to Lin Jiang that they didn''t have many people in charge now. If it weren''t for some ie from the base, it would have be a farming base, just like those old bases behind them. But that was inevitable.

    "We still have to follow the proper procedures. We can''t let anyone have leverage over us."

    Lin Jiang said that he actually looked down on Guo Yunfeng''s internal fighting methods. If he were Guo Yunfeng, he would have dealt with the people from the Zhang Wanjing faction a long time ago.

    So, in order to prevent Guo Yunfeng from bringing up this matter, Lin Jiang was extremely cautious and never gave the enemy a chance to catch him.

    "Okay, the process is finished, you can go back now."

    "Sure, senior brother, do you want me to bring you something?"

    "No need, just go early ande back early.""Goodbye, senior brother."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and an hourter, the transport spacecraft arrived at the new base. Lin Jiang boarded the spacecraft and returned to the Five Elements Sect. He didn''t want to travel alone, afraid of being robbed. Although he was confident, he still worried about unexpected situations.

    Upon returning to the Five Elements Sect, Lin Jiang immediately went to Zhang Wanjing''s cave to add spirit stones to the spiritualnd of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruits. He had removed all other spiritual herbs from Zhang Wanjing''s cave, dedicating all the spiritual energy to nurture these Purple Origin Taoist Fruits. However, it was still not enough and additional spirit stones were needed.

    This investment was quite substantial. Lin Jiang estimated that he would have to invest twenty to thirty thousand spirit stones every year. Moreover, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruits took a very long time to mature. Even the oldest ones still needed another one to two hundred years. It was impossible for ordinary cultivators in the Building Foundation Period to afford such expenses.

    Currently, all Lin Jiang could do was hope that Zhang Wanjing would break through to the Nascent Soul stage. Then, his cave could be upgraded to a higher level, and the level of spiritual veins would also increase. Alternatively, he could directly nt the Purple Origin Taoist Fruits in the sect''s advanced Spiritual Herb Garden.

    Instead of immediately going to find Yue Lin in Medicine City, Lin Jiang first gathered information about the Wang family.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior Brother Xiao, you have such great taste."

    At an upscale tea house, Yue Lin met Lin Jiang. He thought Lin Jiang would invite him to the Pce Banquet, but he didn''t expect toe here.

    "Isn''t it nice to drink tea?"

    "Don''t you want to go to the Pce Banquet for some drinks?"

    "I''m not going. That ce is dangerous. It can make people go deaf."

    "Oh, why is that?"

    "I have a friend who went there. After he came back, his wife kept telling him not to go again because he went deaf and couldn''t hear anymore."

    "Hahaha, Junior Brother Xiao, you''re quite a clever person."

    A joke, Yue Lin listened dumbfoundedly and only snapped back to reality after a while, then burst intoughter.

    "This is what I promised Senior Brother Yue before, let me count, Brother."

    Lin Jiang waited until he finishedughing and ced a bag in front of Yue Lin.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, I won''t hide it from you, this time I used some tricks to get the fourth-level Demon Core, no need to spend so much money."

    "If you have the ability to trick others, that''s your business. But when ites to what I, Xiao, promise, it must be done."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He had already found out that the Wang family had copsed, all thanks to Yue Lin.

    Of course, outsiders generally don''t know that it was caused by internal conflicts among the Wang family descendants. The brothers fought each other, infuriated their father, divided the family properties. No matter how many Wang family members there were, they could no longer unite.

    "I feel guilty about taking this money. I, Yue Lin, am not a good person, but I''m not utterly wicked either. Junior Brother Xiao, I can entrust my future to you."

    Yue Lin said that he was extremely ruthless this time, causing a whole family, Wang family, to copse. It was a tragedy that yed out in the human world.

    And Yue Lin also made a lot of sacrifices, the biggest one being his reputation. Before, he had good connections with the higher-ups and often helped people with some tasks.

    But this time, his methods were too ruthless. Those people will definitely be cautious and wary of him in the future. So, Lin Jiang still paid him, which made Yue Lin very worried. If Lin Jiang decides to distance himself from him, he will be at a great loss.

    "Senior Brother Yue''s choice won''t be wrong."

    "Then, please take care of me, Junior Brother Xiao, from now on."

    "Take it easy, we have a long time ahead. Yue Qing from your Yue family has been with me for many years and knows my character."

    Lin Jiang said, Yue Lin has no bottom line in his actions, but what does that have to do with him? In this world, if you want to survive, you have to be ruthless. Good people don''t have a long life.

    Since Yue Lin wants to rely on him, he will let it be. If Zhang Wanjing breaks through the Nascent Soul stage and has Zhang Wanjing suppressing him, he won''t be able to do anything. If Zhang Wanjing fails, ording to Yue Lin''s mindset, he will naturally dissociate from them.

    "Yue Qing has told me that Junior Brother Xiao is a reliable person. This is a fourth-rank Demon Core. The Wang family has kept it in good condition, and less than ten percent of the demonic energy inside has leaked out."

    Yue Lin nodded. Seeing that Lin Jiang didn''t insist on keeping his distance, he felt relieved.

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Yue, let''s have some tea."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang and Yue Lin drank two pots of tea, then went their separate ways. They were both experienced individuals and didn''t need to say many words.

    Lin Jiang carefully inspected the Demon Core and found it was well-preserved. After waiting for more than half a month, when the logistics airship of the Five Elements Sect set off again, Lin Jiang followed the airship back to the base.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Big Shadiao, you must make a breakthrough."

    After a few more days, Lin Jiang quietly left the base and brought a lot of food for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao.

    "Brother, brotherбдбдбдбд"

    "Sigh, there''s no use trying to exin to you."

    "Eat, eat..."

    "Good, eat, eat more."

    Lin Jiang''s heart felt heavy, and he remembered what Lin Die had told him. The Lin family would face a great disaster in the future.

    Lin Jiang''s cultivation level was too low. Even Lin Batian, who was almost invincible in the Nascent Soul stage, considered it a great disaster. He didn''t know how he could help the Lin family. Sending Big Shadiao to the Lin family was the only thing he could do.

    As for himself, it was impossible for him to go back. Even if he could exin his identity clearly, what would be the use? Did the Lin familyck people in the Building Foundation Period? They didn''t.

    After Big Shadiao finished eating, Lin Jiang fed it a fourth-grade Demon Core, and Big Shadiao quickly fell into a deep sleep.

    Lin Jiang didn''t know if the fourth-grade Demon Core could help Big Shadiao break through. He had done his best, sacrificing almost half of his possessions for this fourth-grade Demon Core. And it would be very difficult to obtain another one.

    "Your sister is sleeping, no one will bully you anymore. Come with me, and you''ll enjoy all the good things."

    Lin Jiang said to Small Shadiao, but Small Shadiao gave him a skeptical look. It didn''t believe him, who would believe that he wasn''t a Shadiao?

    Put away his belongings, Lin Jiang returned to the base once again. In the following days, Lin Jiang remained low-key. During the day, he dealt with work and drew symbols casually. At night, he focused on cultivation, working extremely hard. Finally, he became the person he disliked the most.

    Fortunately, his ie was not low and could sustain his daily expenses. Now, Lin Jiang''s ie came from various sources. The first one was the sect''s sry, which all the disciples of the Five Elements Sect received.

    In the Building Foundation Period, he received three hundred spirit stones per year, as well as True Spirit Pills, spiritual paddy, and more. Staying at the base also came with an additional sry, although it had been reduced. With the improvement of the new base, it was no longer as important. It amounted to five hundred spirit stones per year, along with three thousand Merit Points.

    Other than that, he also earned money from his business ventures, such as the brewing workshop. He could still earn over a thousand spirit stones per year, not as much as before, but still much better than an ordinary disciple.

    Another source of ie came from Lin Jiang''s own talisman drawing skills. This ie was not low. While Lin Jiang''s talisman technique was not at the top level during the Building Foundation Period, it was considered above average. Drawing a few symbols each day could earn him dozens of spirit stones.

    The main source came from Small Shadiao. Every month, Lin Jiang would release it to hunt. Although he specifically instructed Small Shadiao not to enter the range of the Zhonghang Sect''s base, the Wilderness was vast. There would always be rewards each time, mainly capturing second-tier demon beasts. asionally, he even managed to hunt third-tier demon beasts. Lin Jiang would take the fur, scales, ws, and such, while the meat was given to Small Shadiao to eat.

    With five more years gone by, there was still no news from Zhang Wanjing, but Big Shadiao surprised him by breaking through.

 Chapter 168

    Chapter 168

    Wilderness, Lin Family''s base.

    Lin Jiang was dressed in a ck robe, covering his face. He wore a special type of clothes called a superior spiritual artifact robe, which made it impossible for anyone in the Building Foundation Period to see his face through the clothing.

    About a hundred miles outside the stronghold, a dark cloud gathered. It was Big Shadiao crossing the tribtion, a monstrous beast breaking through the fourth level. It had to ovee a transformation thunder tribtion, also known as a small heavenly tribtion.

    Outside the range of the tribtion cloud, Lin Batian sat on top of the clouds. His powerful aura radiated far and wide, intimidating anyone who dared to approach.

    "Why don''t you go take a look with your longtime beast pet?"

    "I don''t want to look, even if I went, I wouldn''t be able to help."

    "You''re as heartless as your father."

    Lin Die said. After spending a hundred years together with your beast pet, you won''t even go take a nce during such a dangerous time.

    "Being heartless isn''t always a bad thing.""So you won''t go back to Anhua City to see Lin Ying either, right?"

    "Didn''t you say not to go back?"

    "I told you not toe to the Lin family, not to bring the Aurora falcon, but here you are!"

    "If you don''te, you will definitely regret it in the future since you have Lin family blood."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. The Lin family was a distant past for him. He had left the Lin family almost two hundred years ago. But no matter how much time passed or how fuzzy his memories became, there were some things he couldn''t let go of. He couldn''t be so rational or merciless.

    "Forget it, let''s not talk about it. You''re just like your father, living in a twisted way,cking straightforwardness, andcking any manly qualities."

    "When will the Lin family face a major disaster?"

    "I don''t know, don''t ask me. Other than my father, no one knows."

    "If there''s still plenty of time, maybe I can help in the future."

    "The Lin family building foundation has surpassed a hundred, so they don''t need you."

    "My master may be able to invite Soul Changing."

    "Hmph, how can youe up with the idea of Soul Changing sacrificing itself for someone else? Let''s not mention this anymore. I''m not worried at all. Why are you worried?"

    Lin Die shook her head, she never thought that Lin Jiang could invite Soul Changing, it was impossible. Soul Changing is not so cheap.

    "Lin Batian is about to break through Soul Changing, right?"

    "I don''t know, stop asking so many questions. Can you be quiet for a moment?"

    Lin Die was annoyed, why bother asking all these unnecessary questions? Can''t you just be quiet?

    Lin Jiang was helpless, just be quiet. It seems like Lin Die doesn''t know the inside story either. Lin Batian should be the one who knows.

    Lin Jiang reminisced and reyed many things, finally realizing itte. Lin Batian must have many secrets. When Lin Batian appeared in Yun State, he was at the Building Foundation Period, but he had seven or eight Building Foundation Period helpers around him. Steward Wu and the others were too loyal to Lin Batian, something was not right.

    The development of the Lin family has been too smooth. From Building Foundation to Golden Core, from Golden Core to Nascent Soul, not to mention the bottleneck of cultivation, where did they get the resources and breakthrough treasures? Even for the Five Elements Sect, obtaining treasures for Foundation Establishment and Core Formation is extremely difficult, not to mention Lin Batian''s incredible strength.

    There are too many problems, I didn''t realize before, but now I think about it, it''s really scary.

    But Lin Jiang is too weak, he doesn''t have the qualification to discuss these issues with Lin Batian at all. He has worked hard over the years, tried to find resources and practiced diligently, but his talent is ultimately too poor to keep up.

    "Boom..."

    Just when Lin Jiang was lost in thought, a heavenly cmity descended, and thunder struck fiercely on Big Shadiao.

    Big Shadiao let out a mournful cry, it was already badly injured.

    Small Shadiao seemed to sense it inside Lin Jiang''s Spirit Beast Bag, bing extremely restless. Lin Jiang hurriedlyforted it.

    "There are still two tribtions, don''t worry, we can get through them."

    Lin Die also sensed Lin Jiang''s unease and quickly reassured him.

    "Open your mouth."

    Lin Batian watched and shouted, then a pill flew towards Big Shadiao''s mouth.

    "It''s a bargain for you."

    Lin Batian smiled and said. This is a sixth-grade healing pill, even I don''t have many of them.

    As the pill entered its stomach, Big Shadiao''s injuries visibly healed at a much faster rate than its natural healing ability.

    "Boom!"

    The second heavenly cmity descended, and Big Shadiao almost lost all of its feathers.

    "Brother, brother..."

    Big Shadiao let out a mournful cry towards Lin Jiang, feeling like it was about to die, so painful.

    "Stop whining and open your mouth."

    Lin Batian frowned and flicked out a pill.

    "Boom!"

    The third thunder tribtion descended, and Lin Jiang suddenly rose from the ground, rushing towards Big Shadiao.

    "If you rush over now, you''re looking for death. The heavenlyws can make mistakes. When the fourth thunder tribtiones, everyone will die."

    Lin Batian held back Lin Jiang with one hand, preventing him from stepping into the thunder tribtion.

    "How is it?"

    "Not dead yet. Just hold on for another fifteen minutes. If it survives for fifteen minutes, the heavens will send down a downpour."

    "Give it the pill."

    "No need. No pill will work. It''s up to itself now."

    Lin Batian shook his head, and Lin Jiang was extremely anxious beside him. He used a secret technique to contact Big Shadiao and kept encouraging it to persevere.

    A quarter of an hour quickly passed. The dark clouds dispersed, and little dots of starlight fell. The starlight scattered on Big Shadiao, and its injuries quickly healed.

    "Refreshing rain, such a good thing."

    Lin Batian reached out and snatched some refreshing rain. Lin Jiang''s face turned dark. You can even snatch things from a bird, really shameless.

    "Big brother, I''m fine now. It doesn''t hurt anymore."

    Refreshing rain is a good thing. Big Shadiao quickly became lively and flew in front of Lin Jiang, nudging him with its head to show affection.

    "Big bird, at the fourth level you can transform. Show us your transformation."

    Lin Batian said to Big Shadiao that he hasn''t seen any rank-four demon beasts transforming yet in Yun State. The rank-four demon beasts in the Wilderness don''t like to transform.

    "Transforming, let me think..."

    Big Shadiao still felt a bit ufortable. After thinking for a while, he used his magical power. Then, in front of Lin Jiang, his wings and ws disappeared, and he transformed into a humanoid form, but still had a bird''s head.

    "Brother, do I look nice?"

    "Can you close your eyes?"

    Lin Jiang said to Lin Batian. Big Shadiao has turned into a human form, without wearing clothes.

    After saying that, Lin Jiang produced a robe in his hands and ced it directly on Big Shadiao.

    "Hmph, I''ve seen plenty of women without clothes, I''ve seen it eight hundred times!"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang''s face turned as ck as the bottom of a pot.

    "Boring, let''s go."

    "Wait a moment."

    "What''s up, I''m not interested in monsters."

    "Can you be more serious? You are the ancestor of thousands of people in the Lin family, and many people are watching you."

    "Haha, I''m in a good mood, just joking. Do you need me to teach you how to release the Master-servant Contract?"

    Lin Batianughed and said. Lin Ying, the tenth child, has already given birth and is currently guarding Anhua City. Lin Die will be soon too. Now we have a fourth-level monster. The Lin family will have four Nascent Soul experts. How can we not be happy? It''s just a joke, don''t take it seriously.

    "No need, I learned specifically, but I hope you won''t use the Master-servant Contract on it again."

    "Can you guarantee its loyalty to the Lin family?"

    "Yes, I promise."

    "I trust you this time, give it to Lin Die, I don''t need it."

    "Good"

    "This time, I owe you a favor, I''m leaving."

    Lin Batian didn''t waste any time this time, he disappeared right away.

    Big Shadiao was fidgeting on the side, she still wasn''t used to wearing clothes, which made Lin Jiang quickly change her back to her true form, with a human body and a bird''s head. He looked concerned and thought he wouldn''t dare to go to the Pce Banquet anymore.

    Lin Jiang lived together with Big Shadiao and Lin Die, they no longer had a Master-servant Contract, they would now rely on their feelings to get along. Lin Jiang carefully exined Big Shadiao''s personality traits to Lin Die, including what it likes to eat and do, in order to help them develop a bond.

    "Big Shadiao has been with you for many years, if you leave like this, I won''t be able to control it. I suggest we make another Master-servant Contract, but I promise I won''t harm it. Once it bes familiar with me, we will definitely cancel the Master-servant Contract."

    "Do you swear?"

    "Okay, I swear..."

    Lin Die really made a solemn vow, and Lin Jiang didn''t know what else to say.

    After half a month passed, Lin Jiang quietly left without saying goodbye to Big Shadiao, just like when he quietly left the Lin family, not taking away a single cloud.

 Chapter 169

    Chapter 169

    The old stronghold of Wilderness, Five Elements Sect.

    "Finally broke through."

    Lin Jiang almost shed tears. He had already reached the mid-stage of Building foundation a hundred years ago, but had to abandon his cultivation and start over. Finally, he made a breakthrough to theter stage of Building foundation. Meanwhile, Zhang Wanjing had been gone for fifteen long years.

    "Let me calcte my age, damn, I even forgot it myself."

    Lin Jiang tried to think about how old he was, but he had forgotten his age. Time seems to have no meaning in the mountains.

    Calming down his excited emotions, Lin Jiang carefully recalled his timeline. He left Yunzhong City at the age of two hundred and five, stayed in Medicine City for three years, spent a little over ten years in Huangmu Vige, stayed at Shanxue School for three years, farmed for twenty years, spent seven to eight years in Internal Affairs Hall, farmed outside the sect for seven years, and lived in Wilderness for twenty-eight years. He should be around two hundred and eighty-four now, with a slight margin of error, but not significant.

    "The publicly dered age is eighty-one, not too old and also consistent with the character."

    Lin Jiang was thinking in his heart that even at the age of eighty-one, theter stage of Building foundation in the Five Elements Sect was still at an average level. There were many talented disciples who broke through the Building foundation in their twenties, and even more who broke through theter stage of Building foundation in their fifties or sixties. Being in theter stage of Building foundation at the age of eighty could only be considered as ordinary.

    "There is still a long way to go from theter stage of Building foundation to theplete stage of Building foundation. It''s impossible to break through the golden core before three hundred years, and we need to n ahead for the treasures of Nascent Soul."Lin Jiang nned for the future and felt that cultivating immortality was really difficult. He didn''t have the time to slowly n for it with his ordinary Building foundation. The Building Foundation Period only had two hundred years of life, and at the age of one hundred and seventy or eighty, the blood qi would decline, leaving no chance at all.

    After tidying up his mood, Lin Jiang went to drink with Zhang Shuhua. Zhang Shuhua was also very happy to learn that Lin Jiang had broken through theter stage of Building foundation.

    "Junior brother, it''s not easy for you. I broke through theter stage of Building foundation fourteen years ago, and now I have reached theplete stage of Building foundation."

    "Can''t you stop showing off? Aren''t you also inferior to those talented disciples from the inner sect?"

    "We''re also from the inner sect."

    "I mean we entered the inner sect as soon as we joined the sect."

    "How can it be the same? They don''t have to worry about cultivation resources from the moment they enter the sect. They can just focus on their cultivation. But what about us? We have to go everywhere to earn resources, risking our lives. Even if you are practicing alchemy or drawing talismans, how much time do you need to learn? If I had the same conditions as them, I, Zhang Shuhua, would never be weaker than any of them.

    Zhang Shuhua said. The world is unfair. Some people are born with advantages andck nothing, while others face difficulties. He may not be the best, but he''s content with what he has.

    "What Senior Brother said is right. There are plenty of disciples in the inner sect who can''tpare to us, right?"

    "If we''re talking about rankings, at least half of the people are beneath us."

    "Hahaha! So-called geniuses are nothing special. Come, let''s have a drink."

    Lin Jiangughed heartily. They could be proud of the fact that not everyone had surpassed their achievements, even though the inner sect disciples were superior in talent and background. Some couldn''t even establish a foundation, some were stuck at a bottleneck in their cultivation, and some were too indulgent in pleasure. Their cultivation had long surpassed them.

    "This year is the year when Foundation-Building Treasures will be distributed. Junior Brother, don''t worry. When my fatheres back, he''ll find a solution."

    "Senior Brother really doesn''t know how tofort people. Isn''t it hurtful to bring this up now? But speaking of it, when is our mastering back? It''s been fifteen years already."

    Lin Jiang exined. The Five Elements Sect distributes Building Foundation Pills every year. They are quite generous, but there aren''t as many treasures for Nascent Soul cultivation.

    Generally, a batch is distributed every fifteen to twenty years, with about ten positions avable. However, it''s not fixed, as it depends on the cultivation of spiritual medicines nurtured by the sect. The Five Elements Sect has three different treasures for Nascent Soul cultivation, not just the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill. Zhang Shuhua has already sessfully established a foundation, so theoretically, he could apply for a treasure this year. But since Zhang Wanjing isn''t here, he didn''t bother applying, knowing that it would be futile.

    "Not so fast, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit cannot be swallowed, we need to search forplementary herbs, it may take lucky ones one or two years to gather them all, but if luck is not on our side, it''s hard to say. And then, we need to find a reliable Alchemist to refine it, after the refinement, we need to iste ourselves to break through, it may take about twenty years."

    "Then let''s endure for another five or six years, we have been sitting on this cold bench long enough."

    Lin Jiang said. The old base of the Five Elements Sect has beenpletely abandoned by the sect, not because they don''t need it anymore, but because it has be an ordinary base. Since fewer and fewer independent cultivatorse here, the sect decided to dismantle all the institutions.

    Now there are more people in the base than before, but the disciples who are arranged here for farming are only at the Qi Refining Period. They provide full support for the new base in terms of spiritual paddy and vegetables.

    Lin Jiang has been to the new base a few times, it is bigger than here and can amodate more people. It is naturally more prosperous. Moreover, the Five Elements Sect has discovered several mineral resources near the base and sent people to upy them. The required resources are very demanding. It is too wasteful to dispatch low-level resources like spiritual paddy from the sect. So the old base in the Wilderness is responsible for nting, and it''s the same for the bases thate after."

    A Building Foundation Period cultivator is enough to guard this type of base, but the sect intentionally neglected their senior brothers and ced them here. Over more than ten years, most of the manpower that Zhang Wanjing had gathered before has been separated, and it will be difficult to gather them again in the future. It can be said that Zhang Wanjing''s core team has beenpletely dissolved."

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In the blink of an eye, another five years have passed. On this day, Qin Quan, the sect master of the Five Elements Sect, was discussing matters regarding the Wilderness with several elders in the sect hall. Since the Heavenly Wolf King died, the power of the demon race in the Wilderness has declined greatly, and the three major sects joined forces to invade.

    After more than ten years of fighting, the new bases of the three sects have be firm foundations rooted in the Wilderness. The territories of several fourth-order demon beasts have been greatlypressed, which makes it worthy for them to invest their efforts once again in development.

    "In the deeper parts of the Wilderness, there haven''t been any powerful Demon Kings that have emerged. This is a good thing. Although the Thunder Cloud Beast has advanced to be a new Demon King, its strength is not enough topare with the Heavenly Wolf King. We should concentrate our forces and eliminate some of the rank-four demon beasts."

    "I agree with this point too. There are more good things in the Wilderness than we imagine. The spiritual mountains upied by a few rank-four demon beasts have better spiritual veins than we imagine, not inferior to the ones in our sect. Once upied, they can be cultivated into advanced Spiritual Herb Gardens."

    "We also need minerals. We have already discovered seventeen mineral veins, but only two of them can be developed. It''s a pity that we can''t get the valuable spirit stones."

    "So we still need to increase our investment. If the new stronghold can be expanded, we should expand it. Many disciples in the sect can''t be amodated, so we should send them all there to explore and expand our territory."

    Several elders agreed with using troops in the Wilderness because over the past decade, they have gained a lot of benefits. These benefits are not even inferior to a mere Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, and may even be more. The elders who have tasted the sweetness all agree to send more people.

    "Since everyone agrees, let''s discuss the details. Which rank-four demon beast should we start with, and..."

    "What''s wrong, Master?"

    Qin Quan was speaking when he suddenly stopped. Everyone asked him questions, but Qin Quan didn''t answer. He just stared at the door, and everyone turned to look. There were two people standing outside the door.

    "Greetings, Elder."

    When everyone saw the approaching person, they stood up and bowed to him.

    "You guys go on, don''t worry about me."

    Shi Yuntang smiled and said, but Soul Changing Ancestor had returned, so they were too busy to pay attention, especially since he didn''te back alone.

    "Wee back, Wan Jing."

    Qin Quan looked at Zhang Wanjing who was standing next to Shi Yuntang and said.

    "Greetings, Senior Brother, Wan Jing has returned."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded and when everyone heard Zhang Wanjing''s address, they quickly released their spiritual awareness. Soon, they noticed that Zhang Wanjing''s cultivation had changed and he had also be a Nascent Soul Ancestor, just like them.

    Among them, Guo Yunfeng had the most drastic change in his expression. When he saw that Zhang Wanjing had truly reached the Nascent Soul stage, his face became very gloomy.

    "Since no one is speaking, I''ll say it. Disciple Zhang Wanjing, your cultivation has reached the Nascent Soul stage. ording to the sect''s rules, as the new elder of the Five Elements Sect, what is your ranking?"

    "Sixteenth"

    "I remember a few years ago there should have been ripe Infant Nourishing Fruits. Didn''t you seed in refining the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill?"

    "Reporting to the ancestor, the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is ready, but the Pill Hall Deputy, Fang Yu, failed in the final test."

    "Trash"

    Shi Yuntang said directly, the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill is one of the best elixirs for forming a foundation. It is more suitable than the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. How can it fail? What else can it be besides trash?

 Chapter 170

    Chapter 170

    Wilderness, the old base of the Five Elements Sect

    Lin Jiang, as usual, is cking off. Now the old base no longer receives any independent cultivators. Besides a group of Qi Refining Period disciples working in the fields, there is no one left.

    Arge area of spiritualnd has been opened up outside the city. Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua are responsible for patrolling these spiritualnds to prevent monsters from causing trouble and hurting people.

    In fact, this area marked by Small Shadiao, in the eyes of the monster, is the territory of Small Shadiao. No other monster dares toe here. Only three to five monsterse in foolishly every year, but there is also a formation to resist them.

    During the day, Lin Jiang draws symbols. The symbols he draws will be given to Jiang Shu to sell at the new base, bringing in a monthly ie.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, where is Senior Brother Zhang?"

    But at noon that day, a flying boatnded outside the base, and a polite person in the Building Foundation Period shouted outside the base.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua put down what they were doing and walked out, saying, "Senior Brother, what''s the matter? It''s not time to hand in our tasks yet."

    The base is now responsible for providing spiritual paddy and vegetables to the new base. Spiritual paddy is paid once a year, but vegetables are paid monthly. Lin Jiang remembers it''s not time yet."Senior Brother Xiao, I''m not here to rush you for the task. I have received an order from the sect to ask you two senior brothers to return to the sect."

    "Why should we go back?"

    "Martial Uncle Zu has returned."

    "Wait, Martial Uncle Zhu, are you talking about my master Zhang Wanjing?"

    "Yes, Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle Zhu has returned."

    "Say it again?"

    "Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle Zhu has returned, senior brother."

    The person said it again, Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua exchanged a nce, both seeing the joy in each other''s eyes.

    "Hahaha..."

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter, it was not easy, really not easy, after more than twenty years, they finally waited for Zhang Wanjing toe back.

    "After enduring the clouds, the moonlight finally appears, my thigh has returned."

    "Both senior brothers, please pack up ande back to our sect with us."

    "Haha, okay, okay, wait a little while."

    The two of them answered decisively, packed up a little, took their valuable belongings, and immediately jumped onto the flying boat. Then they asked the flying boat to go at full speed and quickly return to their sect.

    When they returned to their sect, the two of them went straight to Zhang Wanjing''s residence. Sure enough, Zhang Wanjing was in his residence, looking at the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, with a few golden core disciples by his side.

    "Master"

    "Father"

    "Everyone''s back"

    "We''re back, Master. I missed you so much."

    Lin Jiang tried to give him a bear hug, but Zhang Wanjing blocked him with a wave of spiritual power. What are you thinking? Two grown men shouldn''t be cheesy, right?

    "Martial Uncle, the spiritualnd formation has been adjusted, but if I may speak honestly, the spiritual veins level here is too low. Even with spirit stones supplementing it, the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit cannot grow properly. It''s best to find another ce."

    The golden core disciples around Zhang Wanjing told him that they were all advanced Spiritual Farmers of the sect, and couldn''t bepared to someone like Lin Jiang who was just a beginner.

    "Hmm, let''s hold on for a while. My new residence is being built. Once it''s done, I''ll ask you to transnt the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit there."

    "No trouble at all. It''s what disciples should do."

    "Alright, you can go and busy yourselves now."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle. We take our leave."

    The few people bowed to Zhang Wanjing and quickly left.

    "Come, sit, and tell me about any grievances you''ve had these past few years. Has anyone been bullying you? Your master will take care of it."

    After the others left, Zhang Wanjing spoke to Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua. He realized that during his twenty years of absence, his disciples must have faced a lot of unfair treatment.

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua shook their heads. They actually didn''t have much toin about. Even though they were deliberately ignored and excluded, they persevered and had plenty of time for cultivation.

    The people who went to the base with Zhang Shuhua were the ones who wanted to seed with Zhang Wanjing, but the oue was very bad. They didn''t have the same mindset and connections as Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua, so they were rejected and became miserable. Some of them even lost the best time to advance and had no hope of reaching the golden core in this lifetime.

    Some people were even transferred to a new base and eventually died in the mouths of monsters. Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua have been in contact with these people for years and have even secretly supported them with some valuable stones, but they themselves are not very fortunate and can''t help much.

    Just a fourth-level Demon Core took away a big portion of Lin Jiang''s wealth, and his own expenses are also not small.

    "It''s a pity that those people were all talented."

    "Master, all of this was Guo Yunfeng''s doing. He is the most cunning person. Did you hit him?"

    "No, I''ll hit himter."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. He wanted to hit someone, but he couldn''t find a good excuse. He challenged Guo Yunfeng, but that guy didn''t respond.

    "It''s a shame. Next time you want to hit him, remember to call me. I want to watch the show."

    "Junior brother, Guo Martial Uncle''s cultivation level is in the middle stage of Nascent Soul."

    "What happened in the middle stage? My master is unbeatable. It''s like ying when he fights against opponents in the early stage."

    "Stop it. I called you back not to watch me beat people up, but to do some work."

    Zhang Wanjing rolled his eyes. Is he really that powerful? Why doesn''t he know that boasting is not a good idea? What if he can''t win the fight and bes embarrassed?

    "What position is my master in now?"

    "It''s not decided yet. I want to try to be the leader, but the senior brother of the leader is also nice to me. I feel hesitant. What do you guys think, which position should I aim for?"

    "How about the Internal Affairs Hall, dad? The Internal Affairs Hall manages everything in the sect. If you want to make changes, you must take over the Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Xiao Yi, what do you think?"

    "I don''t quite agree. It would be best if my master can be the leader. If not, then the Law Enforcement Hall is better than the Internal Affairs Hall."

    "Law Enforcement Hall, junior brother, what do you think? It''s a position that requires a lot of effort and doesn''t bring much appreciation."

    Can wepare the difficulty of "Internal Affairs Hall" with the usefulness of it? What''s the point of Master doing so much, just fattening up a group of parasites? It would be better to take down "Law Enforcement Hall" and start from there, with strict and fair rules, cleanse the entire Five Elements Sect and set a new foundation.

    Doing this will definitely offend people. But is Master afraid of offending people? Probably not.

    Lin Jiang said. There''s not much to do in Internal Affairs Hall. No matter how much work is done, all that''s bred are parasites. It''s better to focus on Law Enforcement Hall. Since Zhang Wanjing has already offended many people, he shouldn''t be afraid to offend more.

    "Father, don''t listen to Junior Martial Brother. He''s just talking nonsense."

    "I''m not talking nonsense. I have thought deeply about it. Master, does the Five Elements Sectck people who actually do things?"

    "No, it doesn''t."

    "Exactly, it doesn''t. So why aren''t there any? It''s because they won''t receive the proper rewards for their efforts. It''s because key positions are being monopolized. No matter how much they do, it''s useless. So if Master wants what''s best for the sect, we have to start with Law Enforcement Hall. There are too many parasites within the sect. We need to bring them all down. Whoever dares to embezzle, whoever dares to enjoy unearned benefits, we will take them down. They won''t dare to reach out anymore. Those who want to do things will naturally emerge. Providing an environment for action is more important than cultivating a few individuals. Because those who truly want to do things don''t need to be trained, as long as they receive proper rewards, everyone will step up."

    Lin Jiang said. It''s more effective to cultivate a good overall environment rather than just training a few individuals. If the overall environment improves, naturally there will be people who stand up.

    "Xiao Yi makes a valid point. However, Nie WuyuanHall Master is not someone to be taken lightly, and my rtionship with him is also good. It would be difficult to remove him from his position."

    "Master, if you still have the original intention, then there''s no need to talk about rtionships. When it''s time to be ruthless, you must be ruthless."

    "Let me think about it."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. This matter is not urgent. He has already reached the Nascent Soul stage, with a lifespan of several hundred years. The elders can''t easily exclude him anymore. There is time to n.

    "Master, take your time to consider. It was just a casual remark from me."

    "Let''s discuss this matterter. Right now, there''s something we need to discuss. I''m advancing to the Nascent Soul stage and bing the 16th elder of the Five Elements Sect. I will have some privileges. Your annual sry will increase from 300 spirit stones to 2000 spirit stones for each of you who are at the ordinary Building Foundation stage. Additionally, I have one quota for the Spirit Integrating Pill. Simr to the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill, it is a treasure that helps break through the golden core stage of the Building Foundation Period. Which one of you, my disciples, would like to have it?"

    "Really, Master? Are you asking your two disciples to fight each other?"

    Lin Jiang was speechless. What was Zhang Wanjing talking about? Isn''t he trying to sow discord?

    "I would like to have two, but the privileges of a Nascent Soul Elder are limited to this extent."

    "Let my junior brother have it. I will wait for the opportunity to obtain the next batch of Foundation Establishment treasures."

    "The next batch of Foundation Building treasures won''t be avable for at least another ten years. By then, you''ll be over a hundred years old. How can youpete with others? Do you want our master to show favoritism?"

    "Um..."

    "You can have the Spirit Integrating Pill. I''ll figure out a way to obtain the Foundation Building treasure myself."

    "What can you possibly do?"

    "In about twenty years, it will be the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City. During every Centennial Celebration, there will be Foundation Building treasures avable for auction. I''ll just go and buy one then."

    "I know about the Centennial Celebration in Yunzhong City, but the starting price for the magical treasure is at least one million spirit stones. Can you afford to buy it?"

    "Who says I can''t afford it? Didn''t Master still owe me 500,000 spirit stones?"

    Answering, Lin Jiang said, and Zhang Wanjing''s face immediately stiffened. ''My good apprentice, do you have such a good memory? I have just returned, and you alreadye to ask for debts. Is it really okay?''

    The cover for book 14 of the xianxia (cultivation) novel "Cultivation: Being Immortal" sold on Amazon

 Chapter 171

    Chapter 171

    Mountain Gate of the Five Elements Sect, Main Hall

    The formation of the Main Hall was activated today, and a shining light covered the entire hall like fireflies. Even outsiders couldn''t see it, and their spiritual awareness couldn''t prate it.

    In the Main Hall, on seventeen chairs, there were people sitting. The one in the middle was the incarnation of the ancient ancestor Shi Yuntang, who hadn''t appeared for hundreds of years. The other chairs were upied by some elders in person and some were just phantom illusions, only their souls present.

    "Martial Uncle, everyone is here."

    The Sect Master Qin Quan said to Shi Yuntang. All sixteen elders have arrived.

    Good, now that everyone is here, let''s begin. I haven''t returned to the Five Elements Sect for hundreds of years. I don''t know the current situation of the sect. It was Wan Jing who found me and told me about the situation, which is worrying.

    Guo Yunfeng, tell me, you are also an elder, what have you been doing all these years? As an elder of the sect, youck the broad-mindedness of an elder.

    "Chen Xuanhua, you too. You were supposed to guard the Wilderness, but all you think about is hunting monsters. Have you ever killed a fourth-rank monster beast?

    And you, Shen Qun, at least you areбдбдбдбдбдShi Yuntang spoke, criticizing all fifteen of the elders, including the sect leader Qin Quan. The people lowered their heads, nodding in agreement, too afraid to argue.

    "The Five Elements Sect, you have made it chaotic. If we don''t make changes, we will eventually be ruined because of you. That''s why I''vee back this time, to reorganize the Five Elements Sect. Where is Zhang Wanjing?"

    "Reporting to Martial Uncle, I''m here."

    "Wanjing, what you said to me a few days ago, I find it very reasonable. You can tell them now."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded and faced the crowd. Many people were uneasy. They couldn''t understand why Martial Uncle trusted Zhang Wanjing so much instead of trusting them. After all, they were all in the same boat.

    "I''ve been away from the sect for over twenty years. During this time, besides reaching the Nascent Soul stage, I have also carefully considered the reasons behind the current difficulties of the sect. Of course, my fellow senior brothers might not feel the difficulties. In your eyes, everything in the sect seems harmonious and beautiful. Beautiful enough for someone to spend three hundred thousand spirit stones on a mattress and have hundreds of singers as nightlypanions. Beautiful enough for the Pce Banquet in Medicine City to be packed night and day, with people enjoying themselves.

    But I don''t feel it''s that great. What I see is junior disciples struggling for a few spirit stones, talented disciples unable to advance due tock of resources, watching their life slip away helplessly. What I see is disciples working hard day and night, but someone else taking credit for their achievements.

    And all of this, it''s all because of you, you elders, you''re the ones leading the wrongdoing, you''re the ones breaking the rules..."

    "Zhang Wanjing, you''re arrogant."

    "Zhang Wanjing, you can eat your meal messily, but you can''t speak carelessly."

    "Zhang Wanjing, just because the ancestor supports you doesn''t mean you can misbehave."

    Zhang Wanjing attacked all the elders, making everyone angry. Even Shi Yuntang, who was present, immediately refuted. They absolutely refuse to ept this usation.

    "Shut up, all of you shut up! I''m not dead yet. The Five Elements Sect is not under your control."

    Shi Yuntang shouted, instantly quieting everyone down.

    "I heard some of you say that the sect relies on you and not the low-level disciples. So tell me, who is the pir of the sect, me or you?"

    "Martial Uncle, nobody said that, but the prestige of the sect doesn''t depend on the number of disciples or the stages of cultivation like Building Foundation and Golden Core. It relies on Nascent Soul. That''s the truth, and it''s the same for the other two sects."

    "So how did youe here? Were you born as Nascent Soul from your mother''s womb?"

    "Um..."

    "To be honest, if your descendants, disciples, and rtives were ambitious, then I would consider what Wan Jing said nonsense. But you all aren''t ambitious. Despite having the most resources, what have you aplished? Singers, mansions, fancy clothes, delicious food, servants - what good do these things do for the sect? Zhang Wanjing, please continue."

    Shi Yuntang said. In the cultivation world, mediocrity is a sin. If these people had taken advantage of the benefits and cultivated powerful disciples, I would ept it. But they didn''t, so we need to change things.

    Actually, I don''t mind if the elders enjoy a better lifestyle. We work hard to cultivate not only for longevity but also to stand out, to be superior. However, this should not hinder the sect''s growth. If our generation enjoys, the future disciples will suffer. They will be disadvantaged, they will suffer.

    So, Martial Uncle and I suggest that from now on, the Nascent Soul Elders of the sect should not be concerned with trivial matters, nor hold any actual power. The elders should resign from their positions as Hall Masters and stay away from the sect''s affairs. The Presbyterian Church will only be responsible for two things: ensuring the safety of all Five Elements Sect disciples and monitoring the sect. The Hall Masters, Deputy Hall Masters, and stewards will handle the specific tasks. If they fail to perform well, the Presbyterian Church can supervise, admonish, and dismiss them.

    In response, the sect will increase the treatment of the elders. Elder''s allowances can be raised, and if they want to enjoy further privileges, the sect can assign disciples to serve them. If the elders have their own abilities, they can also enjoy even more exclusive treatment.

    "Wan Jing means that in the future, you won''t have to deal with the sect''s trivial matters like me. Let the golden core and building foundation disciples handle them. Your additional responsibility will be to supervise them, reward those who excel, and penalize those who don''t. I think this method is quite good."

    As soon as Zhang Wanjing finished speaking, Shi Yuntang agreed. In his opinion, it''s a win-win situation. The elders'' treatment is improved, and the sect''s interests are protected.

    The elders remained silent and didn''t know what to say. When they were asked to give up their positions of power in the sect, it meant they would have fewer opportunities to make money. However, they still wanted better treatment. It was a difficult situation.

    "Uncle Martial, can you make a decision on this matter?"

    In the end, Guo Yunfeng asked. There''s more than one person in the Five Elements Sect who can perform Soul Changing. Can Shi Yuntang be the one to do it?

    "Yes, I have talked to the other senior brothers and they all agreed with Zhang Wanjing''s suggestion."

    Shi Yuntang''s words crushed Guo Yunfeng''s hopepletely. Even the other elders were convinced. How did he manage to do that? Did he use some kind of magic potion? Can he share the recipe?

    "I agree with Zhang Wanjing''s suggestion."

    Chen Xuanhua, who had been assigned to oversee the Wilderness outpost, spoke up. Not every elder in the Five Elements Sect had a profitable position. Chen Xuanhua didn''t have one either. If it weren''t for the benefits he received from Zhang Wanjing during the years he was there, he would have had a hard time.

    "I agree too."

    "Me too."

    The rest of the elders all agreed, leaving only Guo Yunfeng, Nie Wuyuan, and other influential elders from the Internal Affairs Hall, External Affairs Hall, and Pill Hall. These halls are very important, and they are not willing to let go easily.

    "Martial Uncle, what should I, as the head of the sect, do?"

    "The position of the sect leader is still held by someone in the Nascent Soul stage. This is the face of our sect."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle."

    "Wanjing, please exin how we can improve the treatment of the elders."

    Shi Yuntang continued. Without offering them any benefits, these people won''t let go. He also doesn''t want things to get too ugly.

    "Yes, Martial Uncle. The annual sry for the sect elders will be increased from 30,000 spirit stones to 200,000. The sect will fully provide cultivation pills, guaranteeing at least two each year. In addition, there will be..."

    Zhang Wanjing carefully considered that he had also calcted this treatment. With all these benefits, even if the elders didn''thing, they could still enjoy superior treatment. Of course, if they wanted the best treatment, they would have to find a way themselves.

    "This treatment is already good. The sect will invest over one million spirit stones each year in you. Is there anything else you''re not satisfied with?"

    Shi Yuntang continued speaking, and Chen Xuanhua and the others were immediately very satisfied. This treatment was much better than before, and they were the ones benefiting.

    "Martial Uncle, how will we be assigned to different ces?"

    "You will receive a sry just like the disciples of the sect, but you will only be responsible for security issues, not specific matters."

    "Alright, Ipletely agree."

    Chen Xuanhua raised his hands in agreement once again. Since they hadn''t gained many benefits before, now everyone was being treated fairly.

    "What about you guys? Nie Wuyuan, you go first."

    "There''s nothing much to say. I will follow the orders of the sect."

    Nie Wuyuan said directly. The Presbyterian Church has already split apart. The interests of the sect leader remain untouched, while Chen Xuanhua and the others have gained benefits. The rest of us are left to bear the burden. Is it worth it to resist? Soul Changing Ancestor will suppress us if we disobey.

    "How about you guys?"

    "Since it''s an order from the sect, we should obey."

    The rest of them also agreed one after another. There''s no other choice, the patriarch is watching.

    "Since everyone agrees, then it''s easy. Wan Jing, do you have anything else to say?"

    "Next, let''s talk about the selection of the Hall Masters. Hall Masters are high-ranking members of the sect, responsible for each hall. They must have clear rewards and punishments. If they do well, the sect will generously reward them. If they don''t do well, they will be punished or even dismissed. So, in addition to each hall, there will be a new department established to supervise each hall. It will be directly under the Presbyterian Church."

    "Then what about the Law Enforcement Hall? Isn''t it redundant?"

    "It''s not redundant. The Law Enforcement Hall will handle ordinary disciples in the future, while this department will oversee senior disciples and above."

    Zhang Wanjing said. Let him manage the Internal Affairs Hall and the Law Enforcement Hall. Those are just minor issues. Now that he has reached Nascent Soul stage, it''s time for a big move. Starting from the top, we need to uproot the interests of these people.

    Their good days are about toe to an end.

 Chapter 172

    Chapter 172

    Five Elements Sect, the entrance to the mountain.

    Zhang Wanjing quietly made a big move, and it was only after all the Hall Masters were reced that the disciples of the Five Elements Sect knew that dramatic changes had urred.

    "Our good days are over."

    Many disciples cried out. In the past, they had the support of their sect and elders, and it was quite carefree to rely on the achievements of others. But now the elders have relinquished their real power, and their good days havee to an end.

    "A master is still a master. When he remains silent, it''s frightening when he suddenly makes a move. The Five Elements Sect is going to change from now on."

    "Is this matter really that serious? I haven''t seen any changes in the Hall Masters, and such."

    Senior brother, you don''t understand. Right now, there may be no changes, but in the future, who knows? Our master''s move has cut off the protection from the elders based on the rules and principles of the sect. Without the elders as their backing, our master can easily reshape the Five Elements Sect step by step.

    Anyway, let me tell you, our master''s move is remarkable. Learn more so you don''t be a disappointment like a tiger''s father and a dog''s son.

    "You can inherit my father''s skills. That will do in the future.""Hahaha, we can discuss this."

    "I am going to go on a journey of self-improvement. I will meditate for a while and when Ie back, I will give you an update."

    Zhang Shuhua said. Spirit Integrating Pill was ultimately given to him by Lin Jiang, and Zhang Shuhua is very grateful for it.

    And Lin Jiang is in need of this gratitude. Without this Spirit Integrating Pill, he can obtain more Spirit Integrating Pills.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Xindangkou, supervising the higher-ups in the Five Elements Sect, is it the JinYi Guards or the East Factory?"

    Lin Jiang looked at Zhang Wanjing with astonishment. These surprises kepting one after another. This idea is like a little cow hitting an electrical wire, it''s awesome with lightning.

    "The JinYi Guards I can understand, but what is the East Factory?"

    Zhang Wanjing looked confused. You were supposed to helpe up with a name, what are you thinking?

    "Cough, master, I was just joking."

    "Then seriously think and choose a more powerful name."

    "Intelligence, department, national, security, bureau, undercover, military, intelligence division."

    "What on earth?"

    "Qingyi Hall, this name is great. Wearing a green robe, cold and unrivaled. How handsome!"

    "It''s better to ask the spiritual beasts in the Spiritual Beast Garden to help you choose a name."

    Zhang Wanjing rolled his eyes directly, it didn''t make any sense, didn''t match at all.

    Lin Jiang felt helpless about this. He only knew about the Imperial Guards and East Factory, but hadn''t heard of any other modern intelligence organizations'' names.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t pay attention to Lin Jiang anymore and pondered for himself. After half a month, Lin Jiang received a message and went to the main hall of the sect. Along the way, he met many disciples from the Building Foundation stage who were going there too. Listening to their conversation, he found out that the hall''s entrance had already been formed and it was called the ck Clothes Hall.

    "This is not copying, what is the difference between the blue clothes and the ck clothes, the master is also shameless."

    Lin Jiang was speechless. When will there be a copyrightw in the cultivation world? He wants to ask Zhang Wanjing for copyright fees.

    Lin Jiang arrived at the main hall of the sect. Many people had already gathered here, there were more than a hundred people. But he didn''t know many of them. Lin Jiang had been sitting on a cold bench in the old stronghold for over twenty years. The disciples of the sect change very quickly, and most of them are unfamiliar faces.

    "Be quiet."

    After a while, someone spoke up, and everyone turned around to look. The sect leader and many elders appeared.

    "After the discussion of the Presbyterian Church of the sect, the Five Elements Sect is going to establish a new branch called ck Clothes Hall. ck Clothes Hall will be responsible for supervising all higher-ranking disciples of the branches within the sect. If there are disciples of the branches who are involved in corruption or illegal activities, ck Clothes Hall can apprehend and interrogate them, and dismiss them from their position. You are the first group of members of ck Clothes Hall."

    I am Zhang Wanjing, and I want to emphasize that all of you were rmended by the elders. There are a total of one hundred and sixty people. As disciples of ck Clothes Hall, you should set a good example. If any of you show favoritism or misconduct during the supervision process, you will face double punishment, without any mercy. So, I am giving you a chance to withdraw.

    Three dayster, you will go to the Internal Affairs Hall to receive the new sect attire. Those who don''t go will be considered as voluntarily giving up, without reward or punishment. If you receive the clothes, you will be considered a disciple of ck Clothes Hall. Any future offenses, big or small, will face double punishment.

    Zhang Wanjing stepped forward and said, as soon as these words were spoken, many people started whispering. They were all rmended by the grand elders, they were definitely insiders. Everyone knew what the purpose was. But if they made a mistake, they would face double punishment. Many people were weighing the pros and cons.

    Without talking about anything else, Lin Jiang was considering it. He got close to Zhang Wanjing, which meant he wanted to get some benefits. He couldn''t guarantee that he wouldn''t make any mistakes. Zhang Wanjing has offended many people, and surely there are many people keeping an eye on him.

    Only two sentences to say, Zhang Wanjing told everyone to leave, but he asked Lin Jiang to stay.

    "I saw you dodging with your eyes just now, do you also want to quit?"

    "Master, am I that kind of person?"

    "Isn''t it true? I know very well what you''ve been doing at the base."

    "I haven''t vited any rules. Master, you shouldn''t falsely use a good person without reason."

    "I don''t care, but you must stay, after all, you are my personal disciple."

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t bother to say more. It''s only natural for a personal disciple to support their master.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    After three days, Lin Jiang went to the Internal Affairs Hall. He exined his purpose, and then the Internal Affairs Hall gave Lin Jiang two sets of clothes. Both sets were of lower quality magical tools. They were all ck and had the symbol of the Five Elements Sect on the front. On his right arm, there were five golden lotus flowers tattooed, which signified that he was a mid-level steward of the Five Elements Sect.

    "Hey, promotion!"

    Lin Jiang smiled. Before going to the Wilderness, he held the position of an ordinary steward. Now, he has been promoted by one level. It seems that there will be a chance for him to be a Hall Master in the future.

    Naturally, after getting promoted, he had to express his gratitude to his master. Zhang Wanjing''s cave dwelling has been changed and moved to the best area of the Five Elements Sect. The spiritual energy there is extremely abundant. However, his previous cave dwelling has not been taken away yet. It has been reserved for Zhang Shuhua, who has already closed himself off to break through the golden core.

    "Youe at the right time, I want to ask you how we should carry out our work in the future."

    "Master already has a n in mind, why ask the disciple again?"

    "I want to hear your opinion. You are now one of the important figures under mymand. Since I have set high expectations this time, you can''t just don''thing and be confused, right?"

    "Does master want to boil a frog in warm water or y a big game?"

    "Tell me in detail."

    "If you want to boil a frog in warm water, you have to do it slowly, making little changes bit by bit. But if you want to make a big impact on the sect, you have to go all out."

    "Go big."

    "In the name of the sect, announce that all disciples'' usations will be epted. Investigate one by one, catching the other elders off guard while Soul Changing Ancestor is still around."

    "There will definitely be many false usations."

    "users should be required to provide evidence for their usations."

    "That''s one way to handle it, worth a try."

    "In addition, the master can recruit more skilled disciples who can investigate cases, make judgments, and examine ledgers. Checking the ounts is the fastest way; they can''t possibly clean up all the records."

    Lin Jiang continued. The ounting skills in the cultivation world are not very high, I noticed that when I was at the outpost. Hiring people to audit the books won''t uncover all the issues, but it will likely catch most of them.

    "Alright, in the next few days, I will bring in more people. You will be in charge of them, consider them as my core team."

    "The master finally understood."

    Lin Jiang was very happy. He was afraid that his master was stubborn and unwilling to cooperate.

    "What do you mean by ''understood''? I had no choice but to do it. Among the elders, I am the youngest and the weakest. If no one helps, how can I fight against them?"

    "That''s right. In fact, this is how change works. When there is a change, it will affect the interests of those who have already benefited. They will definitely fight back. So, the first thing we need is more people on our side."

    "Alright, you go rest. Prepare for a big fight in a few days."

    "Master, remember, don''t let Soul Changing Ancestor escape. You can''t defeat more than ten of them by yourself. It''s necessary to have Soul Changing Ancestor''s support."

    "I already knew what you were going to say."

    Zhang Wanjing replied. Without the support of Soul Changing Ancestor, how can he take back the elders'' power? He can''t win against them alone, even with the Presbyterian Church''s resolution. Soul Changing is his biggest backer.

 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174

    Five Elements Sect, the main entrance

    Inside Lin Jiang''s cave, Yue Lin and Yue Qing have been anxiously waiting. When they saw Lin Jiang returning, they hurriedly went up to greet him.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, how is the situation?"

    Yue Lin quickly said. Lin Jiang has advanced to theter stage of the Building Foundation realm, so it''s appropriate to call him senior brother.

    "You''re both fine. Just go to the Internal Affairs Hall in a few days to pay a fine."

    Lin Jiang said. Zhang Wanjing is conducting a thorough investigation of the management of the Five Elements Sect, and Yue Lin is also on the list. He has done quite a lot of things over the years.

    "Is everything really okay?"

    "It''s fine. My master understands the saying ''when the water is clear, no fish are found.'' If we were to investigate thoroughly, starting from the attendants, none of the management members of the Five Elements Sect can escape. I''m the same. So we focus on the big issues and let go of the small ones. We catch the obvious examples, but we don''t pursue the others. I''ve taken care of Yue Lin''s list, so it''s fine."

    Lin Jiang said. There are loopholes in the rules of the Five Elements Sect, and in such an environment, if others are epting money, you can''t refuse. Otherwise, you will be isted. So many people have no choice but to go along with it. We can''t get rid of all the management members, so we have to handle things separately.

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xiao."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, how much of a punishment will there be?"

    "Yue Lin, you will be fined ten thousand spirit stones, and Yue Qing, you only need to pay five thousand."

    "That''s so much!"

    "Is that still a lot?"

    "Not much, not much, Senior Brother. We''ll pay."

    "I managed to keep Yue Lin''s position safe in the Foreign Affairs Hall, but I will try to get him transferred to the Internal Affairs Hall. Maybe he can even get a promotion."

    "Thank you, Senior Brother Xiao."

    Upon hearing this, Yue Lin became extremely happy. The opportunities in the Internal Affairs Hall were even better than in the Foreign Affairs Hall.

    "When we start working in the Internal Affairs Hall, we can''t behave recklessly like before. There are many ways to make money that don''t go against the rules. Don''t worry, I will make sure you all earn enough."

    Lin Jiang told Yue Lin that their previous ways of making money were dishonest, but Lin Jiang''s methods were different. He had a reputation for being skilled and Yue Qing knew this from their previous cooperation in the Internal Affairs Hall.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, I trust you on this. Our good days areing."

    Yue Qing quickly added that he had coborated with Lin Jiang many times before and had already discussed these matters with Yue Lin. They were both very excited about the uing coboration.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Five Elements Sect, the main hall of the sect.

    Wei Yunshen is reporting to many elders, and it''s time to summarize the recent captures by ck Clothes Hall.

    "So far, we have captured nine Hall Masters, Deputy Hall Masters, 182 senior stewards, and recovered over 130 million spirit stones. We have already turned in more than 80 million, but they can''t produce the rest of the spirit stones. Martial Uncles, what should we do with the remaining stolen money?"

    "Since they don''t have any money left, let''s just forget about it. After all, they are our own people."

    "Yes, we shouldn''t push people to their death."

    "I disagree. This money originally belongs to the sect. Since they spent it, we must recover it. Many people own businesses, shops, and spiritual mountains outside. We need to seize those assets. If they still don''t have enough, we can deduct from their sries. If ten years are not enough, then it should be twenty or thirty years."

    Zhang Wanjing is not nning to let these people off easily. He wants topletely deal with them. Without resources, they won''t be able to advance anymore. This is also a way to prevent future troubles.

    "Zhang Wanjing, let''s show mercy when it''s appropriate. There''s no need to be so harsh."

    "If we don''t capture a few as examples, what will happen in the future? I spent all the money, and they won''t investigate anyway."

    "Um..."

    The elders immediately fell silent. These days, they mostly remained silent, with everything being a performance by Zhang Wanjing and ck Clothes Hall.

    Zhang Wanjing was about to say a few more words when suddenly his face changed and he vanished directly into the main hall of the sect.

    "Martial Uncle"

    Wei Yunshen was shocked, unsure of what had happened to Zhang Wanjing.

    "Let''s go, let''s take a look."

    The others exchanged a nce and quickly left, following Zhang Wanjing''s aura all the way to his original cave dwelling.

    Inside the cave dwelling, the group saw Zhang Wanjing supporting Zhang Shuhua, whose face was pale and who had already fainted.

    "What happened?"

    "It seems like he failed to break through to the golden core stage."

    "Fail and faint, Senior Brother Zhang, what happened?"

    Several people''s faces changed drastically when they saw this, hurriedly asked Zhang Wanjing, but Zhang Wanjing didn''t answer, only inputted pure spiritual power to Zhang Shuhua.

    Before long, Zhang Shuhua woke up and saw Zhang Wanjing, saying, "Father, someone plotted against me."

    "Do you know who it is?"

    "I didn''t see anyone, but someone attacked the defensive formation of the cave, causing me to lose focus and my spiritual power to fluctuate intensely."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head, the person who plotted against him didn''t show up at all. At that time, he was in a crucial moment of breaking through the golden core. Two small actions ruined nearly a hundred years of his hard cultivation.

    Zhang Wanjing turned around and looked at the people in front of him, his gaze bing colder. The people remained silent, whoever spoke first would be in trouble.

    "Wanjing."

    Shi Yuntang appeared, he rushed here after receiving a message from Zhang Wanjing.

    "Uncle Martial, do you have any Revitalizing Pill?"

    "No, but I have the Endless Energy Pill."

    "The Endless Energy Pill won''t work, Shuhua has injured his meridians and dantian."

    "First stabilize his condition and have the Pill Hall refine the Revitalizing Pill."

    "Master, the Five Elements Sect doesn''t have the materials for the Revitalizing Pill."

    "Then let''s go find or buy them, I''ll take care of all the expenses."

    Shi Yuntang shouted loudly, and everyone could only agree. They quickly went to call the people from the External Affairs Hall and spread the message to gather the materials for the Revitalizing Pill as soon as possible.

    "Who did this?"

    Shi Yuntang calmed down and looked at everyone.

    "Uncle Martial, do you think we did it?"

    "Isn''t this a retaliatory strike?"

    "Even if it''s a retaliatory strike, it''s not us who did it. Attacking the cave''s formation, disrupting spiritual energy, can be done by someone with a golden core, and even someone in the building foundation stage."

    "Investigate ck Clothes Hall and Law Enforcement Hall for me. Find out who did it. I will make them pay."

    Shi Yuntang was furious. This is not only retaliating against Zhang Wanjing, but also pping him in the face. The things done by ck Clothes Hall are the ones he supports.

    "Yes, Uncle Martial, we will send someone to investigate right away."

    As soon as they found an excuse, the elders immediately ran away. It''s better not to stay and arouse suspicion now.

    "Wanjing, don''t worry, Shuhua can be cured."

    "I understand, Uncle Martial."

    "I will give you an exnation for this matter. Plotting against the elder of our sect is a great crime that leads to the destruction of our n."

    "Martial Uncle, no need to worry. Wan Jing hasn''t lost his sense. It''s just that they are in a hurry. When I had a strong inner power, I had even more troubles. At that time, I wasn''t afraid of death, let alone now."

    "You haven''t lost your fighting spirit, and that''s good. Honestly, before this, I didn''t believe our sect had so many rotten individuals. But now, all I hope for is to crush these insects. These people are truly detestable."

    Shi Yuntang said. The matters of the Five Elements Sect weigh about three or four units without a title. Once they have a high status, they weigh more than a thousand units. It''s fortunate that the lid has been lifted now. If it were to happen a few hundred yearster, it would be strange if the Five Elements Sect wasn''t in decline.

    "The world is full of hustle and bustle due to personal gain. Everyone is seeking their own benefits. I hope that in the future, disciples of our sect will consider the sect''s interests."

    Zhang Wanjing shook his head. He had long been aware of the many rotten individuals in the sect. He couldn''t control what would happen after his death. He only hoped to contribute more to the sect while he was still alive, as a way of repaying the sect''s nurturing.

 Chapter 175

    Chapter 175

    Five Elements Sect - the main entrance of the sect

    Lin Jiang found out about Zhang Shuhua''s trouble a dayter. As Zhang Wanjing''s close confidant, he had too many things to handle at the moment and was overwhelmed.

    "Senior brother, how are you?"

    Lin Jiang received a message and immediately rushed to Zhang Shuhua''s side.

    "It''s okay, I won''t die."

    "Senior brother, this is my fault."

    Lin Jiang said if he hadn''t given the Spirit Integrating Pill to Zhang Shuhua, then he would be the one in trouble.

    "What kind of talk is this? When the enemy ns to attack, does it matter who it is?"

    "Ah, I was careless."Lin Jiang said, indeed he was careless. Zhang Shuhua shouldn''t have been in the old mansion of Zhang Wanjing, but should have gone to the new mansion where the defense is stricter and the formation is advanced. They wouldn''t have been able to seed with such methods there.

    "Yes, I was careless. I never thought they would target me."

    "Do you dare to find the master?"

    "Junior brother, you should be careful too."

    "I have been on guard the whole time."

    Lin Jiang said, ever since he returned to the gate of the mountain, he has been wearing hisplete set of high-quality equipment, and he also took out the Life Talisman from his storage bag.

    Throughout history, those who initiate reforms have always faced bloodshed and sacrifice. He didn''t want the bloodshed and sacrifice to start with him.

    "Just stay on guard, they definitely won''t give up easily."

    "Don''t worry, they won''t dare to attack again directly. Ancestor Shi Yuntang is furious and has personally ordered an investigation. They will seek revenge for you."

    "If we can''t find out, forget it, let''s not investigate anymore. Don''t let this matter affect my father''s n."

    "You''re really generous."

    "The least powerful one who attacked me was Golden Core. Do you think Golden Core has the courage?"

    "Nascent Soul should die too."

    "Do you really want my father to fight them?"

    "Senior brother, you have to remember, blocking someone''s wealth is like killing their parents. Ever since our master took action, there is no turning back. Either wepletely crush them or they crush us."

    Lin Jiang said seriously, even if it''s Nascent Soul, as long as we have solid evidence, we must keep fighting. Now Shi Yuntang is in the sect, everything is under control. But Shi Yuntang won''t be there forever, and Zhang Wanjing is not a match for many Nascent Soul cultivators.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The entrance of the Five Elements Sect. Zhang Wanjing and Lin Jiang, along with their group, bid farewell to Jin Yu and the others. Jin Yu and the rest were the first to be captured, they would be stationed in the Wilderness to fight and redeem themselves through service.

    The Wilderness is now several times more dangerous than before, because the Five Elements Sect has decided to encircle and kill the fourth-level demonic beasts, and upy arge territory. They have to fight the beasts all the time.

    Jin Yu and the others felt dejected. With this defeat, it is very difficult for them to turn things around, unless they can obtain the Infant stage treasures in the Wilderness and sessfully break through to Nascent Soul. Otherwise, by the time they return, their lifespan would be short, and they wouldn''t have the money to buy treasures. Moreover, they are getting old, so they have no chance to obtain the Infant stage treasures from the Five Elements Sect.

    "Master"

    "Have you seen your senior brother?"

    "Yes, my senior brother has a good mindset."

    "I know, Shuhua has undergone a lot of training since childhood, and I am very relieved."

    "Master, be careful, the enemy won''t give up so easily."

    "They don''t have the courage to attack me yet, but you should be careful."

    "I''m not afraid. I won''t leave the sect in these years unless Nascent Soul attacks me. Otherwise, it''s hard to kill me with just one move. Master should also take care of your family."

    Lin Jiang said that he has Lin Batian''s Life Talisman on him. Even if it''s Nascent Soul, they can''t kill him with just one move. In the sect, if they miss their first attack, they can basically survive.

    Lin Jiang is worried about Zhang Wanjing''s family. He is not alone. He has a wife and a son.

    "I have made arrangements."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded, his wife and her family have made arrangements, there are enough people to protect.

    "The disciple can rest assured then."

    "Now let''s get down to business, this is just the beginning."

    "Master, the most important thing next should be revising the rules of the sect. During the investigation process of the ck Clothes Hall, I found many loopholes in the rules. The simplest point is that many positions are not supervised and rely solely on the disciples'' self-awareness. However, human nature is not reliable and needs to be regted by institutional rules."

    "Write a detailed n for me."

    "As a disciple with low cultivation and status, I cannot write it. I cannot grasp the full picture of the sect, and whatever I write would be wrong. This matter should be led by the master, just like reiming the authority of the Nascent Soul Elders. Without constraints, the Nascent Soul Elders can do as they please. There must be rules to regte them."

    "I understand, let''s go."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded, this actually gave him an inspiration. This statement is correct, there should be a detailed set of rules to regte the disciples, just like how the Nascent Soul Elders are regted.

    As time went on, the changes that Zhang Wanjing made in the sect became more apparent. The corrupt officials were removed, and the efficiency of the Five Elements Sect greatly improved. This was especially noticeable at the lower levels.

    Towards the end of the year, many disciples were concerned about the application for the Building Foundation Pill. Zhang Wanjing personally oversaw the distribution of the pills this year.

    Everything was done ording to the rules of the sect. This gave many disciples without any connections a chance. In the past, they wouldn''t have had any opportunities, but now, opportunities had arrived.

    Zhang Wanjing was very fair in his actions. He didn''t specifically suppress the children of influential families. This was different from the changes made by ordinary people, which aimed topletely change the distribution of benefits. The sect only wanted to select true genius disciples.

    Therefore, regardless of background, as long as someone was excellent and talented, Zhang Wanjing would support them.

    Of course, this was something only Zhang Wanjing could do. If Lin Jiang were in charge, those people wouldn''t stand a chance. Lin Jiang didn''t agree with this "saintly" approach.

    The person behind the attack on Zhang Shuhua could not be found. They were extremely secretive, and there were no clues to be found.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Martial Uncle, these three Purple Origin Taoist Fruits couldn''t be saved. They have been eaten by poisonous insects. However, I managed to save these four."

    Zhang Wanjing''s underground dwelling, a wise farmer told Zhang Wanjing sadly that seven Purple Origin Taoist Fruits had been destroyed, which was such a pity.

    "How is he?"

    "He couldn''t be saved. He severed his meridians and even his soul scattered. Otherwise, we could have used magic to bring him back."

    "That''s really impressive."

    Zhang Wanjing said coldly as the enemyunched another attack. Previously, they had ambushed Zhang Shuhua, but this time, they aimed at the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit in Zhang Wanjing''s hands.

    The higher-ups of the sect were fully aware of the matter regarding the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Several Nascent Soul cultivators had advised Zhang Wanjing to hand over this precious treasure to the sect. However, Zhang Wanjing refused, as the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit was his weapon.

    As long as Zhang Wanjing possessed the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, he had no fear ofcking followers. Acquiring treasures for Golden Core cultivators to form their Nascent Souls was incredibly difficult, but here it was right in front of him. It was easy to envision what those Golden Core cultivators would do.

    The enemy, seeing this, bribed the Spiritual Farmer responsible for taking care of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit for Zhang Wanjing. They manipted the fruit behind the scenes, causing it to wither. Zhang Wanjing only discovered this when it was toote.

    The Golden Core cultivator who took action had alreadymitted suicide before the incident. It had been several days, and even their soul had scattered. It''s needless to say that all other evidence had been thoroughly cleaned up.

    "Uncle in Martial Arts, then I''ll leave first."

    When that person heard Zhang Wanjing''s words, he immediately wanted to leave. The struggle among the leaders of the sect was not something he, a small cultivator at the golden core stage, could afford to get involved in.

    "Wait a moment, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang stepped forward at this moment.

    "Junior Brother Xiao, is there something else?"

    "Lately, I''ve be quite interested in Spiritual Farming. How about I learn some skills from you?"

    "Um..."

    "We are all disciples of the sect, there''s no need to be so petty."

    "Alright, if you have any questions about Spiritual Farming in the future, you cane find me at the Spiritual Herb Garden."

    "Thank you very much, Martial Uncle."

    Lin Jiang bowed and thanked him, realizing that he needed to learn some more skills in order to protect the remaining Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, which had a special meaning to him.

    "Master, are you alright?"

    "I''m fine, it''s just a few medicinal nts. We can nt more if we run out."

    "Then I can rx."

    "Be carefultely. Take this Life Talisman, it''s for you."

    "I already have one."

    "Having an extra one is not a bad thing. For the next few years, don''t leave the sect and don''t go to Medicine City. Focus on learning your skills."

    Zhang Wanjing handed the Life Talisman to Lin Jiang, worried that even his disciple might get harmed by the enemy''s actions.

    "Thank you, Master."

    "Go ahead, I need to take a rest."

    "Yes, Master."

    After Lin Jiang bowed and left, Zhang Wanjing found a chair and sat down, looking sad.

    He couldn''t understand why those people still hated him so much. He had already shown enough mercy, and he hadn''t touched the interests of the Nascent Soul. Wasn''t everything he did for the sect?

    The initial effects of the changes had already appeared, and the efficiency of the various departments had soared. Isn''t this a good thing?

    Or is it that as long as the benefits are not in their hands, they are not benefits, even if it''s for the sect?

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176

    Five Elements Sect, main gate

    Zhang Wanjing was discussing the ws in the rules of the sect with Shi Yuntang, the sect in the cultivation world, which had a very rudimentary organization structure, or you could say it was primitive.

    Zhang Wanjing was inspired by Lin Jiang''s words and studied it carefully for a long time. He found it to be true, so he decided to continue working on improving the organization structure of the sect. If he could aplish this, even if he died, the Five Elements Sect would not easily decline.

    Moreover, this n was very clever. It was much more effective than simply catching a few corrupt individuals. In the future, they could try to avoidrge-scale corruption and bribery as much as possible. Of course, this n must not be known by others, otherwise they would definitely do whatever they could to stop it.

    Wanjing, from what you''re saying, it seems like our rules have a lot of problems.

    "Martial Uncle, this is an obvious problem. Take the sect''s treasury for example. The same group of people handle the ie and expenses every year, without any supervision. How can this be eptable? They decide how much is collected, spent, and lost. As long as they bnce the ounts, no one knows the truth."

    "So how do you n to change the rules?"

    "It''s not about changing, but refining and improving them."

    "Please exin in detail.""Regarding the treasury, we divide the personnel into two teams. One team is responsible for collecting, and the other team is responsible for expenditure. They are separate and not rted to each other. This can solve many problems. Overall, it''s about limiting the power of Hall Masters and Deputy Hall Masters and effectively supervising them, not allowing them to act recklessly."

    "I understand what you''re saying. So, I''ll leave this matter to you. Please give me an urate exnation as soon as possible. I''ll then promote it in the name of our sect. With me here, those Nascent Soul cultivators won''t cause any trouble."

    "Thank you for trusting me, Martial Uncle."

    "Ah, I couldn''t find any clues about Shuhua''s matter. It''s my fault, I''m sorry."

    "Martial Uncle, there''s no need to say more. I won''t pursue this matter."

    "Is that all?"

    "Of course not. They plotted against Shuhua, just to warn me. But I won''t back down. So now, I''m ying a clever trick with them, facing them head-on. As long as I handle this matter well, they won''t be able to make trouble for much longer."

    Zhang Wanjing said, supervising the leaders of the sect would benefit ordinary disciples. Once they experience these benefits, they would support this policy. In the future, the enemies of those who selfishly pursue power and feast on their positions won''t be just Zhang Wanjing alone, but the majority of regr disciples.

    "Clever tactics, Wan Jing, I''m not as skilled as you."

    "Martial Uncle, don''t say that. Without your support, Wan Jing would never be able to achieve anything."

    "Okay, let''s stop being modest. You go ahead and do this, I''ll fully support you."

    Thank you, Martial Uncle.

    Zhang Wanjing replied, with the support of the Soul Changing Ancestor, this matter could be considered aplished.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    In Lin Jiang''s cave, Yue Lin and Yue Qing wereining to Lin Jiang. During these days, they had faced a lot of pressure. Some of their former fellow disciples and friends had been telling them, openly or secretly, to stay away from Lin Jiang and Zhang Wanjing, or else they would face the consequences. This made them very nervous.

    "Senior Brother Yue, seeking wealth and fortune involves risks. Isn''t it also a time for choosing sides now? If the benefits are so easily obtained, why would it be your turn?"

    "Senior Brother Xiao, it''s not that I want to change my mind, but the current situation is not good. We heard about Zhang Shuhua''s situation, and these people will harm us too."

    "They will harm us, but are our knives made of y? They only dare to take advantage of others'' weaknesses. Let them try to attack me."

    "Senior Brother Xiao is highly skilled, but I.."

    "Well, Senior Brother Yue, you go back and think about it. If you really don''t trust me, I won''t me you either."

    Lin Jiang''s expression turned cold and he directly issued the order to leave. Yue Lin awkwardly left as well.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, don''t me my uncle. He''s been under a lot of pressuretely and he''s not young anymore, so..."

    "I understand his meaning, but you also made him remember that getting benefits from me is not easy. It requires a trade, not just a wish. Once you make a wish, ites true."

    Lin Jiang immediately replied, understanding Yue Lin''s intention. If he really wanted to change his mind, he wouldn''t havee to him. He would have just gone ahead and done it. Comining on the surface but actually seeking benefits.

    But Lin Jiang wouldn''t just give it to him easily. Lin Jiang wanted him to know that benefits are not easily obtained. If he chose to leave, Lin Jiang wouldn''t stop him. He couldn''t let Yue Lin manipte him.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, my uncle didn''t mean it that way. He''s just desperate. If he doesn''t find a way to get some treasure, he will never reach the golden core in this lifetime."

    "Junior Brother, you should understand that my Master is extremely fair. The sect''s core cultivation treasures are scarce, not even I can get them now. We have to find a way from outside."

    "Does Senior Brother have connections outside?"

    "The Yun State Centennial Celebration ising up in a few years."

    "I know about that. The Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration does have some valuable treasures for sale, but they are very expensive and we can''t afford them."

    "Not being able to afford it now doesn''t mean we won''t be able to afford itter. In two months, you''ll be able to make money without much effort."

    "Oh, senior brother, is that true? How do we do it?"

    "You''ll find out when the timees."

    Lin Jiang didn''t immediately tell him, but right now Lin Jiang has indeed found some loopholes to make money, but hasn''t started yet. They still have to wait for some time.

    Yue Qing saw that Lin Jiang didn''t want to say more and stopped asking. He believed that if Lin Jiang had any benefits, he wouldn''t forget about him. They had known each other for decades.

    Half a monthter, at the sect''s main hall, the sect leader Qin Quan received news from Shi Yuntang and quickly arrived. Shi Yuntang and Zhang Wanjing were already waiting.

    "Martial Uncle, Junior Brother Zhang, what''s the matter that''s so urgent?"

    "Qin Quan, I called you here because there are some things I need you to do."

    "Please follow the instructions of Martial Uncle."

    "This is the door rule of our sect, the old one. This is the new one, take a look."

    Shi Yuntang took out two jade slips, one new and one old. There''s no need to look at the old one, Qin Quan is already very familiar with it. He picked up the new one and scanned it with his spiritual perception.

    With just a quick nce, Qin Quan''s expression changed and he said. Martial Uncle, the door rule has been passed down for thousands of years in the Five Elements Sect. Why have there been so many changes?

    "It has been a tradition for Nascent Soul Elders to serve as Hall Masters for thousands of years. Didn''t I say we could make changes?"

    "But..."

    "And this is just a first draft. If we find anything unsuitable during the implementation of the door rule, it can be changed at any time."

    "Martial Uncle, the door rule shouldn''t be treated as child''s y, changing it whenever we want."

    "As long as it benefits the sect, it''s okay to make changes. If anyone disagrees, they cane and talk with me."

    Shi Yuntangpletely ignored Qin Quan''s protest. His attitude was very strong, leaving Qin Quan unsure of what to say.

    Qin Quan realized that in this internal struggle within the sect, Zhang Wanjing had wonpletely. Those people plotted against Zhang Shuhua, but it didn''t faze Zhang Wanjing at all. Zhang Wanjing surprised them by not engaging in a confrontation, but instead persistently continued with his reform.

    And he directly targeted the sect''s rules. If these rules were passed, even if someone killed Zhang Wanjing, it wouldn''t matter because Shi Yuntang would still carry on with the reforms. Unless those people had the ability to kill Shi Yuntang as well.

    "Qin Quan, so now my words are useless, right?"

    "Martial Uncle, Qin Quan doesn''t dare."

    "Since you don''t dare, then we''ll keep pushing forward. No one has experience in this area, so we''ll take it slowly. I won''t leave in the next few years."

    Shi Yuntang said, many of the measures in the rules were unheard of, and he didn''t know where Zhang Wanjing found them. No one had experience, but it was okay. We''ll figure it out slowly.

    He wouldn''t leave in the next few years. He wanted to wait until these measures became familiar and everyone understood them before considering leaving. If he wanted to support Zhang Wanjing, he had to support him to the end.

    Zhang Wanjing didn''t say a word, but it seemed like he said countless things.

    Within a day, Qin Quan made hundreds of copies of the new rules, and each Nascent Soul Elder received them immediately.

    "Zhang Wanjing, you are cutting off the future for my Guo family."

    After reading it, Guo Yunfeng became extremely angry. None of his heirs were talented, and they relied on the benefits from the sect to keep the Guo family strong. Without these advantages in the future, if the Guo family couldn''t produce influential figures, it would weaken after his death.

    However, the Guo family has enjoyed luxury for hundreds of years. How can it easily be changed? Difficult, difficult, difficult.

    "Indeed, it is a unique idea. Zhang Wanjing is truly a hero."

    Nie Wuyuan looked at the jade slip in his hand, his expression gloomy and uncertain. He had never had high expectations for Zhang Wanjing. He felt that going against a dozen people alone was like hitting a rock with an egg, even though Zhang Wanjing had already advanced to Nascent Soul stage.

    But he didn''t expect that Zhang Wanjing wouldn''t confront them head-on, even when his own son was ambushed. He struck back with a big move, leaving them helpless. What could they do? Assassinate Zhang Wanjing? It''s useless. This was Shi Yuntang''s order. They would have to kill Shi Yuntang to change anything.

    "Zhang Wanjing is very impressive, this move is unbeatable for everyone. But that''s good, my future children with Chen Xuanhua canpete with them."

    Chen Xuanhua looked at the jade scroll in his hand and thought to himself. He had a low rank and was inexperiencedpared to the Nascent Soul Elder of the Five Elements Sect. His children didn''t gain any advantage, as all the good positions had already been taken.

    But things were different now. If Zhang Wanjing followed this rule well, then everyone would bepeting on the same level in the future. He didn''t believe his son would be worse than these people.

    "There must be loopholes in the new rule, but it would take time to exploit them. This is a good opportunity to have more children."

    Chen Xuanhua looked at the several rooms in his cave, which belonged to his concubines. It was time to have children, so he needed to seize the opportunity.

 Chapter 177

    Chapter 177

    Five Elements Sect, Zhang Wanjing''s cave

    "Master, you are truly wise and mighty. With just one move, you have extinguished the enemy. With the new rule, those..."

    "Master, you will definitely go down in history. Whenever people talk about Zhang Wanjing of the Five Elements Sect, they will think of..."

    "Master, you have now be highly respected and admired by thousands. How do those disciples refer to you? When they speak of you, they..."

    "Master..."

    "Ahem, Junior Brother, can you please stop ttery? Even Senior Brother can''t stand it anymore."

    Lin Jiang caught Zhang Wanjing and ttered him relentlessly. Zhang Shuhua, who was beside them, couldn''t stand it anymore. He wondered why he hadn''t noticed before that his Junior Brother was so shameless, always praising others without any sincerity.

    Before, Zhang Wanjing listened to the praise with half-closed eyes. Now, he opened his eyes and said. Why stop praising? Please continue.

    "No words can describe Master''s remarkable achievements. Disciple has nothing more to say.""Is that so? Then you can leave."

    "Please, Master, can you bear to chase away your disciple without reminiscing about the rtionship between master and disciple?"

    "Stop the nonsense. You really think I don''t know what you''re thinking?"

    "Haha, Master understands me well. I want to start a small business, Master."

    "If you want business, why are youing to me? I don''t have money."

    "Alright, I''ll be honest, I want to take over the sect''s restaurant."

    Lin Jiang said directly, exining that the restaurant is like a cafeteria, and he has been eyeing it for a while.

    "Junior brother, the restaurant belongs to the sect. How can it be contracted to disciples?"

    "Senior brother, you''re mistaken. During the recent crackdown on corruption in the sect, I discovered how many people were involved in the restaurant. The corruption and wastefulness here are truly shocking. Master knows about it."

    "Xiao Yi is right, the wastage in the sect''s restaurant is appalling. We disciples consume more food than is actually disposed of."

    Zhang Wanjing exined that the Five Elements Sect''s cafeteria is free, and the daily expenses are calcted based on the number of registered disciples. However, many disciples at the mountain gate don''t eat at the cafeteria. Some are guarding outside, others are in seclusion, and some have servants to cook for them at home.

    Despite so many people not eating, the cooking still continues. Of course, they also deduct a lot, but they still end up throwing away a significant amount of food every day.

    It''s not entirely considered wasteful because the Five Elements Sect also keeps many spiritual beasts for consumption. However, Zhang Wanjing still sees it as wasteful, especially this time when many lower-level disciples were caught in the cafeteria''s corruption scandal.

    "Apart from corruption, waste, and bad-tasting food, there are sixteen food stalls inside the mountain gate. Except for the two stalls inside the inner gate, the food in the stalls outside is so bad that even the dogs won''t eat it. Master, the biggest disrespect towards food is making it taste bad, don''t you agree?"

    "Yes."

    "Therefore, I am willing to respect food."

    "This reason alone is not enough to convince me. As a master in the sect, I must set an example and cannot give you special treatment."

    "I don''t need special treatment, I have legitimate reasons to manage the food stalls."

    "Then go on."

    The sect''s system is rigid in all aspects, not just at the higher levels. Reforming the food stalls can bring about changes in many areas. For example, spiritual paddy. Outer disciples are required to nt spiritual paddy for the sect and have to contribute arge amount of it each year for tasks. They have very little left for themselves, so their enthusiasm for farming is low.

    Before, we made efforts outside the gate, improving irrigation and optimizing seeds. But the sect just increased the task load and nullified all our efforts. Now we are back to where we started, right?

    "Yes."

    "The master also doesn''t want to extinguish the hope of these disciples, right?"

    "Yes."

    Then, we can do this. The amount of work for farming disciples should be paid with spirit stones. Depending on how many spirit stones they contribute, we can adjust it every ten or twenty years ording to the market price. This way, the disciples will have enough profit incentive for farming. It''s called being profitable.

    In fact, it''s not just for spiritual paddy, but also for low-level spiritual medicines and such. The sect doesn''t need to spend so much manpower and resources to manage these. The sect only needs to control high-grade elixirs and strategic pills like the Building Foundation Pill.

    "Then, aren''t you afraid of price maniption?"

    "No need to worry. If it''s ordered by the higher-ups of the sect, there are rules to deal with them. If it''s an outsider, do you think Five Elements Sect''s swords are made of tofu? They will be taken care of."

    "Haha, I think I understood. It sounds a bit like a whip technique, but didn''t the whip technique fail?"

    "There was no failure, just a failure at that time. Master, the sect''s reform is not only to eliminate corruption but also to reduce costs. Your creation of new sect rules is also for this purpose, right? With a wealthy sect, we can focus on cultivating those talented disciples and make Five Elements Sect stronger."

    Lin Jiang immediately ttered, but it was not all ttery. Half of the new sect rules that Zhang Wanjing gave to Shi Yuntang came from him. They were lessons learned from centuries of history.

    Zhang Wanjing thought for a moment and found Lin Jiang''s words logical. Using the restaurant as an example, it was indeed wasteful and cost a lot of resources.

    The same goes for spiritual paddy, a low-grade spiritual medicine. The cultivation, harvest, and storage are all done by the Five Elements Sect themselves. It wastes a lot of resources. It ispletely possible to improve the enthusiasm of the farming disciples and let them improve their efficiency. The surplus disciples can be assigned to other ces, such as the newly acquired mine in the Wilderness.

    "Come up with a feasible n, and I will convince the Sect Master and Elder Shi Yuntang. If they agree, then it''s settled."

    "Thank you, Master."

    Lin Jiang was overjoyed, and Zhang Wanjing rxed. This matter was almost half done, and the spirit stones woulde pouring in again.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Xiao, can contracting the sect''s restaurants make money?"

    "Exactly! It''s like the packed meals we did outside Medicine City. At that time, Medicine City had over a million people. How much money did we make?"

    Yue Lin and Yue Qing were somewhat skeptical after hearing Lin Jiang''s n. How much money could you make by contracting restaurants? How much money could outer disciples have?

    "You wouldn''t understand this, there''s so much money to be made here, you''ll see."

    Lin Jiangughed, can''t make money from running the cafeteria? He remembered the cafeteria boss in middle school, changing cars every year, houses every two years, and wives every three years. At thepany cafeteria during work, several high-level rtives were almost fighting over the contract. If it doesn''t make money, why should they bother?

    "Senior Brother Xiao, can we really make money?"

    "I''ll make you a promise, if I don''t earn a hundred thousand spirit stones in a year, you can change myst name."

    "Senior Brother, there''s no need for such assurances, I trust you."

    "Actually, contracting the restaurant is just an opportunity, the real money lies behind it. Spiritual paddy, low-grade spiritual medicine, all future tasks in the sect will be settled with spirit stones. What does this mean? It means that these are allmodities that can be bought and sold. It also involves low-grade spiritual medicine, spiritual talismans, formations, and many other things. With over a hundred thousand people in the Five Elements Sect, how many are in the upper echelons? Ny percent are in the Qi Refining Period. The business opportunities here are endless."

    Lin Jiang said, contracting the restaurant is just a way to stimte the reforms that follow. Once the low-grade resources be marketized, it will be a huge piece of meat. They don''t need to take much, just a small insignificant part, and they can earn plenty.

    For example, supplying a certain material for the Spirit Gathering Pill, just one is enough. The consumption of tens of thousands of people is terrifying, and it''s also fixed. As long as Zhang Wanjing and Lin Jiang don''t lose their influence, the business can keep going.

    Yue Qing and Yue Lin obviously had limited knowledge and didn''t realize how terrifying the profits were. But they still believed in Lin Jiang because over the years, Lin Jiang has never failed in making money.

    Meanwhile, Zhang Wanjing held Lin Jiang''s n and found Master Qin Quan. Some elders were also present, but Zhang Wanjing didn''t avoid them and told them about it.

    "Spiritual paddy, a basic spiritual medicine paid with spirit stones instead of specific items. Restaurants are contracted to individuals or businesses. Basic pills, talismans, tools, and formations are purchased as needed. Wan Jing, I ask you, what should we do with the extra disciples? Expel them from the sect?"

    Qin Quan nced at it and felt uneasy. While the cost decreased, the disciples would lose their livelihoods.

    "Expanding the territory, Wilderness is winning one victory after another. With so many spiritual mountains, there are no people upying the mines. Isn''t that perfect?"

    "Um..."

    "Master, what Junior Zhang said makes sense."

    "Yes, Master. The sect saves on expenses, and there are people to expand the territory. Isn''t this a great thing?"

    "Master, what Junior Zhang said ismendable."

    Although Master Qin Quan hadn''t agreed yet, the other elders present had shiny eyes. They had broad knowledge, and what they saw was the glowing spirit stone. Moreover, it was legal andpliant spirit stone. At this moment, their gazes towards Zhang Wanjing became kind andpassionate.

 Chapter 178

    Chapter 178

    Five Elements Sect, Mountain Gate

    Outside the Internal Affairs Hall, arge screen projected the new rules of the Five Elements Sect.

    "New Restaurant Rules: Starting next month, both the inner and outer sect restaurants of the Five Elements Sect will no longer provide free food. All food will be purchased at a price, and the sect will provide meal allowance as a sry on a monthly basis. For specific amounts, please consult the Internal Affairs Hall..."

    "New Rules for using Spiritual Land: From this year onwards, all spiritualnds below the second level, and tasks assigned by the sect, will be settled with spirit stones. Merit Points remain unchanged. For specific details, please pay attention to the Internal Affairs Hall..."

    "New Rules for the Pill Hall..."

    "New Rules for the Talisman Hall..."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Under dozens of new rules, all outer sect disciples were bewildered. Many had been with the sect for decades, and their food and amodation were provided by the sect. It was difficult for them to ept this change.

    "How much money does the sect provide? Will it be enough for me to eat?""I hope it won''t be like pig food in the future."

    "This is great. For someone like me, fasting for two or three days is no problem. It saves me some money."

    "Protest! I don''t agree. Throughout history, sects have never charged for meals. Why does the Five Elements Sect want to collect money while others don''t?"

    The disciples were discussing with different opinions. Some agreed, some opposed, and some didn''t care, all expressing their own views.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Da Hu, Er Hu, don''t say that I, as your Martial Uncle, don''t help you. Now we have taken over the restaurant, and from now on, you guys will provide the spiritual paddy for the restaurantбдбдбдбдбд"

    "Yue Qing, you will be in charge of the vegetables for the restaurant. I don''t care who you use, but you must ensure the quality and price for me."

    "Senior Yue Lin, if you have people, they can also join. We can all benefit if there is moneyбдбдбдбд"

    "Remember, we only make money that belongs to us. Don''t touch even a single spirit stone that doesn''t belong to us..."

    Lin Jiang was also rallying his team. He didn''t have many people, mainly Yue Lin and Yue Qing, but there were also others like Zheng Yi'' two sons, Da Hu and Er Hu, and so on. Further down were the people who were previously in the stronghold.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, don''t worry, I will definitely handle this matter well. I have also made arrangements with Talisman Hall. We will provide the first-level spiritual talisman papers, and the rest will be divided among us."

    Yue Lin said, as the new rules were constantly being promulgated, he also realized the huge business opportunities. Outer disciples receive a monthly meal allowance of at least two spirit stones. With tens of thousands of people, isn''t that a business worth hundreds of thousands of spirit stones?

    Moreover, they can also develop mid-range spiritual meals, which are even more expensive. There is no shortage of wealthy people among the outer disciples. Currently, they are the only ones doing this. It''s a damn monopoly.

    "I have already made arrangements with Talisman Hall, and I am still in negotiations with Pill Hall. If I can make a deal with them too, it will be different."

    "Can we still make a deal with Pill Hall?"

    "Not sure yet. I haven''t contacted several stewards. If Zou Yu Martial Uncle can be a Deputy Hall Master in Pill Hall, then there won''t be a problem. It depends on the decision from above."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. During this period, there was a frenzy of dividing the sect''s assets in the Five Elements Sect. Although they were all low-level resources, the top management wasn''t stupid. When the quantity isrge, it bes a terrifying force of interest.

    They could only eat some scraps, while the real big portions were eaten by those powerful elders with Nascent Soul. But even if it''s just some scraps, it''s enough to make their mouths oil up.

    Lin Jiang was not surprised or envious about this. People should have self-awareness and earn the money they deserve. If he were to have aplete golden core now, it wouldn''t be worth it. But who made him only in theter stage of building foundation.

    "Zou Yu Martial Uncle''s alchemy is not very advanced."

    "Being a Deputy Hall Master doesn''t necessarily mean being a master alchemist. Things have changed now. Also, there''s a chance to take a bite from the Spiritual Herb Garden. I''ve been learning from a Martial Uncle in Spiritual Herb Garden recently. I''ve already talked to a few of his disciples, and they will sell us the surplus low-grade spiritual herbs at a much lower price. If any of you have good alchemy talents, we can concentrate resources to train a few of them."

    Lin Jiang continued, all of it was about exchanging benefits. He had already established several connections. If he missed this opportunity, it would be gone. He wanted to eat up everything he could.

    "Senior Brother, I will find a few people to try it out."

    "Alright, I won''t say much more. I have already made arrangements with the upper management. You go handle the specific matters. Remember, don''t vite the rules, everything must be reasonable andpliant. Don''t give others a handle to hold against you."

    "Senior Brother, don''t worry, we know what to do."

    Yue Lin nodded. He had done this kind of thing many times. For people like them, the most important thing to eat this bowl of rice is to be familiar with the rules and know how to find loopholes in them.

    After their discussion, Lin Jiang told them to go their separate ways. It was now time to prepare and there was a lot to do. Everyone was very busy.

    бдбдбдбдбд

    "Wanjing, I heard that the elders have reconciled with you?"

    Shi Yuntang appeared next to Zhang Wanjing and said to him. He had just received the news as well.

    "Yes."

    "How did you manage to do that?"

    "Sharing the benefits."

    "What about the new rules?"

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "I don''t understand, are we going back to the old ways again?"

    Shi Yuntang said. Zhang Wanjing took such a big detour, aren''t we going back again? Hasn''t the Elder''s benefits been affected?

    "No, Martial Uncle, listen to my exnation. Firstly, the sect''s intention is to have more and more experts, rather than evenly distributing the benefits of the sect, right?"

    "That''s correct."

    "The sect invests millions of spirit stones in Nascent Soul cultivators every year, but that''s not enough to help them break through Soul Changing. We still need to allocate resources to them. Instead of giving them resources for free, it''s better to let them earn it. And the benefits are on their side, it''s only fair to give it to someone, right?"

    "So it''s still the same as before?"

    "No, it''s not the same. Before, they used to brazenly take the sect''s benefits without any consequences. They felt entitled to it. But now, it''s given after everyonepromises, and it can also be changed if needed. The rules are in ce. If their descendants are not capable, they can be reced anytime."

    "It''s a bit confusing, I don''t understand. Maybe I''ve been out of touch with worldly matters for too many years and can''t keep up with the current times."

    "Martial Uncle, although it seems simr, it''s actuallypletely different."

    Zhang Wanjing said, Shi Yuntang shook his head and said. Listening to your words is like listening to another person''s words.

    "Let me put it simply. The elders of the sect used to focus on the benefits within the sect, but now, through reforms, the sect is investing more power externally to generate greater benefits. This is something that benefits everyone in the sect."

    "Can it really be achieved?"

    "We''ll have to wait and see," Martial Uncle said. "Reforms in the sect are not always guaranteed to be good. They could also make things worse. But we can''t choose not to do anything just because there is a possibility of failure. We must continue to try and make improvements when necessary."

    "Alright, I don''t care anymore. Do whatever you want."

    Shi Yuntang shook his head. He had been away from the sect and secr affairs for too long, so he was not ustomed to such changes. He couldn''t be bothered anymore, as he had no intention of staying in the sect for long.

    "If Martial Uncle''s descendants need any help, I''m here."

    "No need. My sons and grandsons have long passed away. Those descendants have no emotional connection anymore. Living a in and simple life is enough."

    Shi Yuntang immediately refused. He was over a thousand years old and all of his children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren had died. He had hardly ever met the remaining members of his n and had long lost any emotional attachment. He didn''t want to be bound by family ties anymore. His biggest goal now was to pursue immortality.

    "Okay, when Martial Uncle leaves, you can get money from the sect. Martial Uncles are the pirs of the Five Elements Sect."

    Zhang Wanjing said. In this change, the benefits of the Nascent Soul haven''t really been affected. There were some changes in the beginning, but they werepensatedter on. And the Soul Changing Ancestor won''t be affected at all.

    "Ordinary resources are no longer effective for us. I don''t want spirit stones or anything like that. I only want spiritual medicine. Please cultivate more."

    "In the Wilderness, we have also discovered some precious minerals. We will invest more in theing years, which will surely be useful for the Martial Uncles."

    "Alright, you take care of it. I won''t leave in these years."

    "Do Martial Uncles have something else to do?"

    "Yes, in a few years, other Martial Uncles will alsoe back."

    "Is something important happening in Yun State?"

    "Maybe, but you don''t have the strength to handle it. We will take care of it."

    Shi Yuntang nodded. Yun State hides a fierce tiger and it''s not even a cub anymore, it has be a disaster. Not only is he worried, but Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect also feel the same. They have already discussed it and in theing years, Cloud Sword Sect will also have Soul Changing to deal with it together.

 Chapter 179

    Chapter 179

    Five Elements Sect, Mountain Gate

    In Zhang Wanjing''s cave, Lin Jiang is learning about Spiritual Farmer''s earnings in the Spiritual Herb Garden with his master. They teach with care and Lin Jiang respectfully calls him "master".

    After a while, when they finished their busy work, Lin Jiang turned around and saw Zhang Shuhua looking on.

    "Why did Senior Brothere out?"

    "Feeling bored inside, just came out for a look. I see you really enjoy growing these things."

    "Don''t you think farming is a great thing? Just like taking care of flowers and nts."

    "This is the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. It would cause chaos if taken out. It''s not the same as flowers and nts."

    "They''re all the same."

    Lin Jiang said there wasn''t much difference, just a little moreplicated than flowers and nts. If he studied hard, his level would improve rapidly."You guys chat first, I''ll leave first."

    "Master, you didn''t stay and have a cup of tea. It''s the exclusive tea for the Nascent Soul Elder, grown in the advanced Spiritual Herb Garden. I''ll secretly give you some."

    "Forget it, if Zhang Martial Uncle gets angry, I won''t be able to bear it."

    "Don''t worry, my master still owes me money. Consider it as interest then."

    "Haha, I''ll go first."

    Zhang Shuhua''s face turned ck on the side. You really have the nerve to steal his dad''s tea in front of him.

    Lin Jiang saw the person off, and when he came back, he sat down next to Zhang Shuhua and took out a pack of tea leaves to brew a pot for him.

    "Don''t worry, I didn''t steal it from your dad, I bought it myself."

    "Can you please be more serious? We''re almost a hundred years old."

    "Am I not a serious person?"

    "I''m getting married soon."

    "I heard that, the single dog camp is losing an important member."

    Lin Jiang made a sad expression, and Zhang Shuhua''s face looked even worse.

    "Don''t you want to get married too?"

    "Why bother with that thing? I have money and can be a groom every night, while you can only do it once."

    "It''s important to be steady in life, experiencing birth, aging, illness, and death - only then life bes meaningful."

    "Never mind, you can experience it yourself, I don''t need it."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He was almost 100,000 years old, even older than Zhang Shuhua''s father. What''s the rush?

    "If you have time, help me take a look at the bride. I haven''t seen her yet."

    "I won''t go, but I can take you to Pce Banquet for some fun, if you want to go."

    "If I weren''t just healed, I would have definitely grabbed you and given you a beating."

    "Even if you were healed, you wouldn''t be my match. Fighting you is like ying."

    "Just go away, I don''t want to talk to you anymore."

    Zhang Shuhua was so upset, he was very angry.

    "Just kidding! How are you doing now? If not, would you like me to get you two healing pills to eat?"

    "It''s okay now, another six months of rest and you''ll fully recover."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head. He had already taken the healing pill given by Shi Yuntang, but his meridians were still weak. He needed another six months to recuperate.

    "I''m not happy that you won''t be able to take revenge anymore."

    Lin Jiang said. Zhang Shuhua was ambushed by someone. Shi Yuntang sent people to investigate for over a year, but they stopped because they imed there were no clues. But Lin Jiang didn''t believe it. He believed that some Nascent Soul Elder was behind this. Shi Yuntang didn''t want two Nascent Soul cultivators to fight, causing great harm to the Five Elements Sect.

    "I didn''t even say anything. Why are you upset?"

    "Your life has been ruined. You should be focusing on reaching golden core stage, not thinking about getting married."

    "You can still breakthrough after getting married."

    "Nonsense!"

    Lin Jiang said coldly. Zhang Shuhua is older than him, over a hundred years old. At his age,peting for the sect''s foundation-building treasure doesn''t have any hope unless Zhang Wanjing gives him special privileges.

    But with Zhang Wanjing''s personality, this is impossible, the rare treasures can only be obtained from outside, but the chance of finding such treasures in the market is very low.

    For now, we can only wait for the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration in about ten years, but we don''t know how many treasures will appear at the celebration. There will definitely be fiercepetition then.

    Moreover, even if they manage to buy it by then, Zhang Shuhua would have wasted several decades of time, which is very detrimental. That''s why Zhang Wanjing is thinking of finding a wife for him to get married. It means that Zhang Wanjing no longer has much hope for Zhang Shuhua''s path and has started practicing the trumpet instead.

    "Don''t be so resistant to getting married, it''s a normal thing. Lin Batian from Anhua City has dozens of children and is still progressing bravely. After my dad got married, he also advanced to the Nascent Soul stage."

    "I don''t want to talk to you anymore, I''m leaving."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and walked away directly. Zhang Shuhua''s words made sense, but he didn''t ept it.

    Lin Batian and Zhang Wanjing can only be considered as special cases and don''t represent the norm. Themon situation is that cultivators only consider getting married when they have no hope in their own path and cannot progress further.

    Because the majority of people cannot achieve absolute rationality and are influenced by their desires and emotions. Once they get married and have children, their energy will inevitably be divided within the family. If their son is not talented, it''s okay, but if he bes talented, the resources will be further divided, making it harder to focus on cultivation.

    At least Lin Jiang can''t do it. He is not like Lin Batian in terms of character or ability. Therefore, he will not consider getting married. Of course, the most important thing is that he has not yet met a woman who can move his heart.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior Brother Xiao"

    Yue Qing saw Lin Jiang arrive and quickly stood up.

    "It''s nothing, please sit. I came to see how things have been going in the past few days."

    "Everything has been taken care of."

    Yue Qing said. Now, the Five Elements Sect''s market is booming. Their business is very sessful, which makes many people jealous. Various problems keep arising.

    Among them, there were disciples with good skills who opened their own private kitchens and secretly sold food, taking away a lot of their business. Yue Qing used some means to disrupt their business, which wasn''t very honorable.

    "Did you have a falling out with them?"

    "No, they joined us. They''re now a part of our own group."

    "Well done"

    "The senior brother''s teaching is good, always leave room for others"

    "Yes, be more careful in the future. The use of the sect''s authority should not be taken lightly. If used excessively, the consequences can be severe"

    Lin Jiang nodded. He had agreed to this matter before. There was no choice but to use the authority to disrupt the person''s business. This involved a dispute of interests, and they needed to monopolize in order to ensure their own interests.

    This was also Lin Jiang''s experience through two generations. When doing business, one should not be too kind, and certainly not thin-skinned. As a prominent businessman from Blue Star once said. Face is the least valuable. If face could be exchanged for money, he would dly take it off and stomp on it.

    "I understand, senior brother"

    "As for the foundation-building treasures of the sect, you and I basically have no chance. Save up some money and try our luck in Yunzhong City"

    Lin Jiang added, although they were wealthy and had reached a sufficient level of cultivation, they were basically unable to obtain the foundation-building treasures of the Five Elements Sect.

    That''s because they were not talented enough. The true geniuses start cultivating at the age of twelve, build their foundations in their twenties, and canplete their foundation-building in their seventies or eighties, or even younger. Meanwhile, they were almost a hundred years old, and age was a significant factor.

    "Senior Brother, really can''t ask Uncle Zhang Wanjing for help?"

    Yue Qing asked, still finding it difficult to understand why Zhang Wanjing was willing to let them run the cafeteria and supply Talisman Hall with food but not help them in this matter. The other elders weren''t as lenient.

    "No, can''t."

    "I don''t quite understand. I can let it go, but Senior Brother is a personal disciple and even has a biological son."

    "People areplicated. They will go all out to protect what they''re willing to protect, but they will ignore anything outside of their goals."

    "Don''t understand."

    "Ask your uncle, then you''ll know."

    Lin Jiang said, everyone is conflicting. He is like that, and Zhang Wanjing is the same. Zhang Wanjing allows them to make money, but he won''t allow them to use their power to acquire treasure pills. The other elders won''t be able to mess around anymore. Before, Zhang Wanjing didn''t have the authority, but now he does.

    What Zhang Wanjing considers, Lin Jiang knows some of it, so he never expected Zhang Wanjing to help him obtain treasure pills. Besides, he has his own way of getting them.

    After many years of ups and downs, Lin Jiang''s wealth has far exceeded the average building foundation. When he was in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, the total value of the average building foundation was only about two or three hundred thousand spirit stones. Those powerful building foundations in the Wilderness had a wealth of only seven or eight hundred thousand. But Lin Jiang had long surpassed this number.

    "The poor have no ce to stand, while the rich have vast fields and abundant resources. I am that wealthy person, perhaps even a little unfeeling towards wealth."

    Lin Jiang said in his heart, after so many years of wandering, he finally reached the stage of a capitalist. In the end, he became the person he despised the most. Such is life.

 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180

    Five Elements Sect - the main entrance of the sect.

    Today, Zhang Wanjing''s residence was decorated with lights and colorful decorations, full of joy. It was because today was the wedding day of Zhang Wanjing''s eldest son, Zhang Shuhua. The bride was not a prestigiousdy, but a very ordinary female cultivator who happened to be a rtive from Zhang Wanjing''s wife''s family. It was said that her figure, appearance, and personality were all top-notch, but her aptitude was considered average with three spiritual roots.

    This marriage was not based on equal social standing. The two families had a huge difference in background and status. Many people advised Zhang Wanjing to find a better partner for Zhang Shuhua. However, Zhang Wanjing refused, stating that he knew the bride well.

    "One guest, from the Internal Affairs Hall, two hundred spirit stones as a gift."

    "One guest, from the Pill Hall..."

    Lin Jiang stood at the entrance of the cave, in charge of collecting gifts. He shouted for a long time and almost lost his voice.

    "Hello, senior brother."

    "Zhang Yeг┐"

    "Senior brother, do you know me?""Yes, I''ve heard of you. You are Zhang Ye, a guest and an inner disciple. The gift is one hundred spirit stones."

    Lin Jiang also encountered an old acquaintance, Zhang Ye, who had once helped him obtain the Ascension Order from the Five Elements Sect. But now, Zhang Ye was already very old, with white hair. Lin Jiang wondered how things were between him and the girl from the Sweet Red Building, and whether his fierce mother-inw still caused trouble.

    "Thank you, senior brother."

    "Zhang junior brother, please go in. The banquet is about to begin."

    Lin Jiang bowed to him and then greeted the next person.

    He met more than one acquaintance, as he had stayed in Medicine City for several years and made friends with many disciples of the Five Elements Sect. Some of them are still alive, but they have all grown old.

    There are more old acquaintances besides them. There is also Zhang Wanjing''s wife, who is only at the Building Foundation Period and is over one hundred and sixty years old. Her vitality has started to decline, even if she takes the Appearance Fixing Pill, she can''t hide her aging spirit.

    However, Zhang Wanjing still doesn''t find fault with her. They have a very loving rtionship, and Lin Jiang knows this. Over the years, Zhang Wanjing hasn''t had any other women around him, not even female disciples, let alone going to a Pce Banquet. From this point of view, Zhang Wanjing is indeed an exemry husband.

    "The auspicious time hase, the wedding begins."

    Lin Jiang is currently just a helper, and there are other people acting as the true master of ceremonies. As soon as the time arrives, the wedding begins.

    The wedding is nothing extraordinary, it follows the rules. However, the guests arouse many people''s attention because there are many guests this time, including more than ten Nascent Soul Ancestors from various sects, along with five or six others, and the rest are representatives of disciples or descendants.

    "Didn''t they say Elder Zhang and the other elders are not familiar with each other? Why does it look like something''s not right?"

    "Who knows, maybe they are just putting on a show for us to see."

    "I don''t think so. Elder Zhang is a very good person. Our lives have been getting better in these years, isn''t it all thanks to Elder Zhang?"

    "Oh no, my family is getting worse and worse. My uncle was thrown into the Wilderness by Elder Zhang, and he sends letters every day asking for things to stay alive."

    "Why did youe to the feast then?"

    "When you''re under someone else''s roof, you have to lower your head. We''ve already paid the betrothal gifts, so why can''t wee?"

    Most of the guests weren''t of high status, they didn''t know that the higher-ups of the sect had already reached a resolution. The condition for the resolution was that those elders still received the majority of the benefits.

    In this revolution, the ones who really suffered were the former middle-level members, like Deputy Hall Masters and stewards. Their benefits were given to the lower-level disciples.

    So Lin Jiang didn''t know whether this revolution was a sess or a failure, or if it was just a characteristic of the cultivation world.

    But Lin Jiang didn''t care about all of this. In this revolution, he was a big winner. Since he received benefits, he had to keep a low profile. Otherwise, if someone targeted him, he couldn''t me anyone else.

    "Come on, let''s start eating."

    When it was time to start the feast, Lin Jiang also sneaked to his seat. With the influence of his master, Zhang Wanjing, no one paid attention to him sitting in the seat reserved for Golden Core cultivators.

    "Xiao nephew, be careful. You can''t eat too much golden core food."

    Lin Jiang was apanied by Wei Yunshen, Zou Yu, and Yu Wanke. They all benefited greatly from this transformation and were either high-ranking members or Hall Masters, or Deputy Hall Masters.

    "Martial Uncle, are you underestimating me? Watch me perform what''s called ''three people sharing one pig''."

    Lin Jiang replied. Isn''t this underestimating people? It''s just the flesh and blood of a third-level monster. I haven''t eaten any less.

    "I heard you stole a lot of good tea and wine from Martial Uncle Zhang. When are you going to show some filial respect and offer it to Martial Uncle?"

    "Martial Uncle Zou, look at the way you''re talking. Between me and my master, how can you call it stealing? You have no culture."

    "What''s that called?"

    "That''s called benefiting from association. What''s wrong with benefiting a little from my master''s influence?"

    "Is that so? Then take a look behind you."

    Zou Yuughed loudly, and when Lin Jiang turned around, he saw Zhang Wanjing looking angry behind him.

    "Oh no, these Martial Uncles have no honor, they''re treating me so unfairly."

    "Haha, you deserve it, you never share anything good with me."

    "Master, did you hear? It was the Martial Uncles who persuaded me to do it, I didn''t steal anything."

    "Even at mealtime, you can''t stop talking, stop embarrassing me."

    Zhang Wanjing red at Lin Jiang, this disciple was hopeless, he couldn''t afford to keep him as his student anymore.

    Lin Jiang smiled awkwardly, feeling embarrassed. These Martial Uncles really weren''t treating him like a family member, they were tricking him like this.

    "Come on, Xiaoshizhe, have a drink to calm down. Don''t worry, if your master hits you, just run to me, the Martial Uncles will save you."

    "Martial Uncle Zou, you''ve deceived me the most. Can I still trust you?"

    "Sure, juste over when the timees and let me know if you need anything."

    "Xiao, how abouting over to my ce for a meal in a few days? Martial Uncle also has something to discuss with you."

    "They have all invited you for a meal. I can''t be stingy either, so Martial Uncle will take you to Medicine City. Have you been to the Pce Banquet? We''ll go to the Garden Pavilion and listen to music."

    The three of them smiled at Lin Jiang, but he couldn''t force a smile. These three Martial Uncles have some hidden agenda; they''re eyeing his business.

    "Martial Uncle, don''t let my appearance fool you. I''ve had a hard time too. There are many connections to establish, and spirit stones just pass through my hands. It''s not as simple as it sounds."

    Lin Jiang whispered to the three of them, and they exchanged nces.

    "You''re worrying too much. Martial Uncle is not someone who takes advantage of others. We just want to do some business with you."

    "Nephew, Martial Uncle is not that kind of person. For you, it''s definitely not a bad thing."

    "Nephew, where did you get that idea?! We''re just catching up."

    The three people immediately passed a message to Lin Jiang. Because of Zhang Wanjing''s presence, they didn''t dare to forcefully take advantage from Lin Jiang''s hand. There were things that they couldn''t easily handle, so they entrusted them to Lin Jiang.

    Hearing this, Lin Jiang sighed with relief. It''s fine as long as they don''t harm their own people. As for business, they can take it slow. As long as it''s not tantly against the rules, there won''t be a problem.

    Moreover, Lin Jiang also had some things to coborate with them on. The Five Elements Sect has a lot of precious pill refining materials controlled by the sect. He wouldn''t even think aboutpeting for them. If they were topete, Zhang Wanjing would definitely use his influence for personal gain, and Lin Jiang wouldn''t agree to that.

    But the middle and high-ranking members of the Five Elements Sect had a lot of personal treasures. They had many golden cores and even building foundation-level items. These things had been passed down within the sect for many years, and they had also nted a lot of spiritual herbs in their dwellings. If they were to pool their resources together, they might be able to produce a batch of Spirit Integrating Pills or other pill concoctions for pill refinement.

    However, Lin Jiang''s qualifications weren''t quite enough for this matter. He was still at the Building Foundation Period. If the three of them were willing to help, it would be much easier. Especially considering that their identities were not low, for those older cultivators, perhaps a favor from them would be more valuable than shining spirit stones.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The wedding preparation was finally over. Zhang Shuhua returned to their new room, where the bride had been waiting.

    "Madam, your husband is back."

    Zhang Shuhua, with proper manners, lifted the bride''s veil and paid his respects to her.

    "Met my husband"

    The bride smiled brightly at Zhang Shuhua, and seeing her smile made him feel excited. He had been holding back his feelings for many years.

    Thinking of how Zhang Shuhua had remained faithful, but unfortunately encountered a troublesome junior, who even took him to ces like the "Sweet Red Building." It almost caused him to indulge in something pleasing. If it weren''t for his strong willpower, he would have fallen into temptation.

    Of course, he doesn''t have to hold back anymore. It''s legal, open, and he can now speak his heart.

    "Husband, please don''t..."

    "What''s wrong?"

    "There''s a mouse under the bed."

    "A mouse..."

    Zhang Shuhua''s hand froze in mid-air, and he looked dumbfounded. This was his father''s mansion, and there were mice?

    In the bride''s confident gaze, Zhang Shuhua walked to the side of the bed and lifted the covers to take a look.

    "Hehe, hello uncle."

    Quickly, three little rascals crawled out from under the bed. They were around three or four years old and even had Image Saving Talismans in their hands.

    "Howe you are here?"

    Zhang Shuhua''s face turned pale. He recognized these kids, they were the children of some senior brothers from the ck Clothes Hall.

    "Uncle Xiao told us toe."

    "Xiao Yi"

    "Yes, yes, he gave me candy and told us to hide here. He said he woulde catch uster."

    "Like an eagle catching chicks?"

    "Yes, does Uncle Zhang y too?"

    "Uncle doesn''t y, he has something very important to do. Come on, Uncle, let me see you off."

    Zhang Shuhua held his breath and sent the little rascal out with a smile on his face.

    After closing the door, Zhang Shuhua couldn''t help but feel more and more angry. That junior brother is really a nuisance. If this Image Saving Talisman gets leaked, where will he hide his face?

    "Husband, where are you going?"

    Zhang Shuhua clenched his teeth and stomped his foot, getting up to leave. The bride became anxious and quickly asked.

    "Husband is going to kill a junior brother, to liven things up for us."

    With a menacing smile, Zhang Shuhua called out to his junior. Come at me with all your strength, my martial brother!

 Chapter 181

    Chapter 181

    Time flies by, and all of a sudden Lin Jiang turned three hundred years old

    The Five Elements Sect - the entrance to the mountain

    Zhang Wanjing arrived in front of Lin Jiang''s cave, Lin Jiang took a nce and wanted to run away, but Zhang Wanjing called him to stop.

    "You want to run away as soon as you see me, what''s the meaning of that?"

    "I can''t afford to provoke you, can''t I hide from you?"

    "I brought you some good stuff - a cloud mist tea of the fifth rank, only three in the whole Yun State. One cup is enough to let you avoid half a month of cultivation and it also cleanses dan poison. And there''s a special spiritual wine from other states called Laughing Maiden, which is not sold in the market. It''s exclusively for Nascent Soul cultivators."

    Zhang Wanjing lifted the things in his hands and said to Lin Jiang.

    "Master, this is like a weasel wishing a rooster a happy new year. You can''t have good intentions, right?"

    "Stop talking and open the door, activate the formation, or else I will clean up the ce today.""Alright, alright, I admit defeat."

    Lin Jiang, with a sad face, opened the cave entrance and let Zhang Wanjing in.

    "Why are you digging a fish pond in the cave instead of nting magical herbs?"

    Zhang Wanjing nced at Lin Jiang''s cave, which was not big, only about ten acres in size, but there was a fish pond, estimated to be about two or three acres. Isn''t this wasteful?

    "Dig a fish pond, raise some fish, nt lotus flowers, and fish in your spare time. Then have a lotus pond for moon viewing. This is called ambiance, do you understand?"

    "I don''t understand. I only know that you have money now and don''t care about the spiritualnd''s earnings from the cave, right?"

    "No, it''s about ambiance. It''s all about ambiance, and besides, I don''t have money."

    "Stop talking, I came here today to ask you for money, either a Spirit Integrating Pill or a spirit stone, you choose."

    Zhang Wanjing stopped pretending and revealed his true intentions. He came here today to rob someone, specifically a fellow disciple.

    "Master, are you robbing someone?"

    "Does it count as robbery between master and disciple? It''s more like taking advantage. What''s wrong with benefiting a little from my disciple?"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    "Ah, Xiao Yi, I owe you for this. I apologize to Shuhua, for what I did in the past..."

    "Okay, okay, enough with the sorrowful act. Can I make it up to you?"

    Seeing Zhang Wanjing being serious and putting on a pathetic act, Lin Jiang couldn''t bear it and took out a fancy box.

    "Thank you, you really are a good disciple, my student."

    "Don''t thank me just yet, master. Can you help me with one more thing?"

    "What do you want to do?"

    "Someone has set their sights on my businesses, help me fix this."

    "Who is targeting your businesses?"

    "It''s the rtives of those big shots in the sect. I''ve been doing well, but they want to interfere."

    Lin Jiang said, we need to start with his teammates. This is Zhang Wanjing''s thirteenth year of transformation. Lin Jiang has made a fortune from the transformation, and those who followed him have also be rich.

    Not to mention, even Zheng Da Hu and Zhang Er Hu, who supply him with spiritual paddy, have be wealthy. But theyck Lin Jiang''s determination and started living extravagantly. Let''s not talk about their luxurious lifestyle, but Yue Qing, after saying goodbye to Sister Hua, even married seven concubines and started acting like Wei Xiaobao.

    This caused people to take notice. Those who were interested calcted Lin Jiang''s assets and realized he was a wealthy man. Suddenly, everyone had ideas, especially since Lin Jiang is only at the Building Foundation Period and is nearly a hundred years old. With the sect unable topete for Foundation Building treasures, some people are already itching for action.

    "I will help you solve this."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. He wasn''t a stickler for rules. Since Lin Jiang''s businesses follow the sect''s regtions, he wouldn''t allow others topete.

    "Thank you, Master."

    "We''re family, no need to thank each other. Oh, and this Spirit Integrating Pill, please give it to Shuhua."

    "Where did you go?"

    "I''m busy, just go ahead and deliver it."

    "Understood."

    "I''m leaving."

    "Oh my, Master, if you''re leaving, at least leave the gift behind."

    Lin Jiang saw that Zhang Wanjing was about to leave, but he unexpectedly wanted to take back the gift he had brought. Lin Jiang became anxious and reached out to snatch it back. That old man didn''t follow the rules, taking back a gift that had already been given. What kind of person was he?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Senior brother, I''m here, where are you?"

    Lin Jiang walked into Zhang Shuhua''s cave in a careless manner. He had the control token for Zhang Shuhua''s cave, a privilege even Zhang Wanjing didn''t have.

    "Uncle, uncle!"

    Zhang Shuhua didn''t show up, but a smart little boy appeared.

    "Xiao Chen, call me ''dad'', and I''ll give you candy."

    Lin Jiang smiled and squatted down, saying to the little kid. This is Zhang Shuhua''s son, who is already four years old this year.

    Zhang Wenchen''s face was full of confusion after listening. Uncle had said the same thingst time and gave him a big bag of candy, it was so delicious, but his bottom hurt and he almost got spanked by Zhang Shuhua.

    "Go ahead, Xiao Chen, call me ''dad'', and this time I''ll give you a whole sack of candy and a chicken leg."

    "Xiao Yi, if you want to die, just say it!"

    Just as Zhang Wenchen was about to give in to temptation, Zhang Shuhua appeared, with a face full of frustration, and said to Lin Jiang.

    "Haha, big brother, you''re home!"

    "Are you crazy? Why do you keep asking my son to call you dad? If you want a son, have one yourself!"

    "But I can''t have one."

    "Go away!"

    "Sister-inw, big brother hit me, aren''t you going to do something?"

    Lin Jiang immediately shouted angrily, Zhang Shuhua was so angry that he wanted to hit someone.

    "Let''s stop ying, let''s go to the study."

    When Lin Jiang realized the joke was getting out of hand, he toned it down a bit. He understood the extent of a joke from Zhang Shuhua''s reaction.

    "What''s the matter?"

    "Your father is robbing me again."

    "Serves him right."

    "This time it''s the Spirit Integrating Pill."

    "You really made it. How many did you take?"

    After this, Zhang Shuhua was no longer calm. He knew that Lin Jiang, Wei Yunshen, and himself had been nning for many years to obtain the Spirit Integrating Pill, but they actually managed to aplish it.

    "I only got one."

    Lin Jiang said that he had been nning this for five years. The four of them invested millions of spirit stones and countless favors to slowly gather the main ingredients for the Spirit Integrating Pill from the golden core cultivators of the Five Elements Sect. They also collected auxiliary ingredients from various ces and hired people to refine them. Most of the costs were covered by Lin Jiang, and he even did some things in Zhang Wanjing''s name. That''s why he got two pills, but he couldn''t tell the truth.

    "Even though you only had one, my father still took it from you. I''ll help you get it back."

    "Stop, I volunteer, here is the medicine, you take it."

    "Xiao Yi, you''re crazy, how old are you this year, if you don''t break through soon, you won''t have a chance."

    "Don''t be silly, I''ve lost the opportunity for the sect''s medicine a long time ago, I have my own way, you break through as soon as possible."

    "I don''t want it."

    "No wonder master asked me to deliver it, if he came himself, you definitely wouldn''t ept it."

    "Even if you give it to me, I won''t take it, I can''t harm you."

    "Harm? I can make twice as much medicine as I need for one furnace, I''m younger than you, let''s do it this way."

    Lin Jiang said and directly shoved the medicine into Zhang Shuhua''s hands.

    "Junior brother, I..."

    "Why is the big tomboy doing?"

    "I still owe you."

    "Don''t you have a son? Let your son repay you."

    "If you really want it, I''ll legally make Wencheng your adopted child."

    "Oh my gosh, are you serious? Big brother, I never intended to help raise a child. You should raise him yourself."

    Lin Jiang got startled, he was just joking. Don''t take it seriously, okay?

    "From now on, Wencheng will see you as his father. I''m not joking."

    "Let''s not talk about this, I feel a bit unwell."

    Lin Jiang awkwardly said, he wasn''t ready to be a dad and being a godfather is also not an option.

    "Is my younger martial brother looking down on my son for being foolish and stupid?"

    "No, he isn''t."

    "Then I''ll have another child with my wife."

    "Martial brother, if you want me to leave, just say so directly. Don''t behave like this."

    "Alright, let''s not talk about that. Stay for lunch and let your sister-inw make you some delicious food. It''s even better than your restaurant."

    "Great! I brought good wine. Would your beautiful wife like to have a taste?"

    "My father indeed likes you more. This wine, he has a whole jar of it. A jar from Medicine City was auctioned for fifty thousand spirit stones two years ago."

    "It''s more expensive than the Building Foundation Pill."

    "That''s normal. When you hang out with Wei Yunshen and the others, you realize how luxurious their lives are."

    "Wei, Martial Uncle, also fell into corruption."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, Wei Yunshen and the other two had given up on the hope of having children themselves. They couldn''t resist the temptation of a luxurious lifestyle, just like Jin Yu before them. They invested all their resources into indulgence. This time, they obtained Spirit Integrating Pills, all prepared for their future offspring.

    "It''s not easy for ordinary people to maintain a simple life. Junior Brother, I really admire you in this aspect."

    "I''m just amazed by your father, Junior Brother. I''ve never been exposed to such luxury, so I don''t know what it''s like."

    Lin Jiangughed heartily. It''s true that he didn''t have much to say in this regard. Apart from asionally attending the Pce Banquet, he had very low requirements for food, drink, clothing, and shelter. He made do with what he had.

    Even after hundreds of years, Lin Jiang''s humble mindset had not changed. The main reason was his own resistance. Lin Jiang had a clear understanding of his own willpower. Once he got used to this kind of life, he would be addicted to it.

    It''s easy to go from frugality to luxury, but difficult to go from luxury to frugality. Don''t overestimate your own human nature.

 Chapter 182

    Chapter 182

    Five Elements Sect - The entrance of the mountain gate.

    It has been an ordinary five years. Lin Jiang is now a young man of 305 years old, and it is also the year of the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration.

    The Five Elements Sect has a base in Yunzhong City. It serves as a contact point for the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect, like a diplomatic embassy. At the same time, it also has a business in Yunzhong City, collecting resources that the Five Elements Sect doesn''t have.

    Every time the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration takes ce, members of the Five Elements Sect participate. This time, it is led by Zhang Wanjing, who is the youngest Nascent Soul disciple in the Five Elements Sect. He needs moremunication and to meet many Nascent Soul disciples from the Yun State.

    As Zhang Wanjing''s personal disciple, Lin Jiang naturally follows him without needing to apply in advance. Additionally, Zhang Shuhua, who has achieved the golden core stage, is also with them.

    Zhang Shuhua received a Spirit Integrating Pill from Lin Jiang. Zhang Wanjing personally protected him, and after a year and a half, he sessfully broke through and became a new golden core disciple of the Five Elements Sect, serving as the Deputy Hall Master of the ck Clothes Hall.

    There are over a hundred people participating in this official mission of the Five Elements Sect, and there may be even more participating privately. Many people want to try their luck at the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, as good things always appear during this celebration that are normally unavable in the market.

    "Let''s set off."With amand from Zhang Wanjing, therge airship of the Five Elements Sect slowly ascended and flew towards the distance.

    "During thest Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, I was 21 years old and really wanted to witness it. But my cultivation was too low, so I couldn''t go. This time, I can finally see the charm of Yun State''srgest city."

    "It turns out that my senior is already 121 years old, so old. I am only 101 years old, really young."

    "I am a golden core, I have lived longer than you."

    Zhang Shuhua smiled slightly and said. You, a building foundation, dare topare longevity with me, a golden core. Are you serious?

    Lin Jiang gave a mysterious smile and said. Young man, it''s better not topare with anything else. Can youpete with me in terms of longevity? You are just a small fry.

    "If you have that time, it''s better to practice more."

    Zhang Wanjing turned around and said. He knows a lot of secrets about Lin Jiang, but he didn''t say much. Everyone has their own opportunities. If his disciple has some adventures, he won''t expose them either.

    Lin Jiang quickly ran away and went to y with other disciples. There were quite a few young building foundation disciples on the flying boat, only in their twenties or thirties. He liked to y with young people because he was also young.

    Within the Yun State area, hardly anyone dares to rob the flying boats of the three major sects. There have been some who tried, but their entire families were exterminated by the three major sects. Now, those bandits have be smarter. After all, they are only after money, not fools.

    The flying boatnded safely outside Yunzhong City. Zhang Wanjing put away the flying boat, and the group entered the city. The Five Elements Sect had a base there, so they didn''t have to spend money renting houses. They settled in the base.

    "Looking back, it has been one hundred years. Yunzhong City, here I am again."

    Lin Jiang looked at Yunzhong City and sighed. A strange yet familiar feeling rushed through his heart.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Junior brother, what''s wrong with you? Today, my father led a group to visit Zhonghang Sect, and you are here at the big market stall?"

    Zhang Shuhua found Lin Jiang at the big market in Yunzhong City, his face full of bewilderment.

    "Senior brother, you don''t understand. This is called an opportunity. I will get familiar with the big market first. When the real celebration begins, I''ll be able to find some hidden treasures."

    Lin Jiang bbered nonsense. How could he not know what Zhang Wanjing was up to today? He knew he needed to avoid Zhonghang Sect, that''s why he came here.

    "You don''t seem like a fool."

    "Ha, it''s like seeing only what''s right under amp. Others may think there won''t be any treasures at the big market, but with my keen eye, I might just find something valuable. Senior brother, don''t you think I''m right?"

    "You can do whatever you want, right? Isn''t Zhonghang Sect not going anymore?"

    "It''s boring. Our Five Elements Sect is also one of the three major sects, and we stay here every day without anything special."

    "It''s up to you. Just don''t cause any trouble."

    Zhang Shuhua shook his head and couldn''t do anything about it, so he just left.

    Lin Jiang let out a sigh of relief, packed up the stall, and left directly.

    Lin Jiang chose to revisit familiar ces. Spring Coming Tower is still there, and so is Baihua Tower. So many familiar ces.

    After a while, Lin Jiang walked out of the gate of Spring Coming Tower with a flushed face, muttering to himself, "It''s too ordinary, too ordinary. Pce Banquet is much better. That''s where literati should go."

    After leaving Spring Coming Tower, Lin Jiang took another stroll around the bustling market in the eastern part of the city, bought a lot of snacks, and happily ate them back at the residence of Five Elements Sect.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, it would have been better if you were here."

    Not long after, a disciple from the Five Elements Sect entered.

    "What''s up?"

    "There''s a visitor. Martial Uncle Zhang has taken a team to the Zhonghang Sect. The other Martial Uncles are not at the base, so you''re the only one here. Why don''t you go and meet the guest?"

    "Look at what Junior Brother is saying, what do you mean by meeting the guest? It''s called receiving the guest."

    "Yes, yes, yes, Senior Brother is right. Well then, please?"

    "Let''s go."

    Lin Jiang wiped his mouth and went to the reception hall to receive the guest, uh, no, to meet the guest.

    "It''s you."

    "Ahem, well, you can go ahead and busy yourselves first."

    Lin Jiang arrived in the front hall and saw Lin Die talking to other disciples from the Five Elements Sect.

    "Um, Third Auntie, why are you here?"

    "I came from Anhua City, from the Lin family, to participate in the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. Is there a problem with that?"

    "No, just wanted to ask, where is the head of the family?"

    "My dad doesn''t know where he went. He hasn''t been seen for years. Lin Ying is guarding Wilderness Town. I came here with a team to Yunzhong City. Little Yu also came. Would you like to meet them?"

    "Who is Little Yu?"

    "Your pet, of course. Are you nning to call it Big Shadiao forever?"

    "Ah, I call Big Shadiao Little Yu."

    Lin Jiang instantly became confused. Isn''t Big Shadiao a nice name?

    "Nonsense, she''s a girl, so how can she be called Big Shadiao?"

    "Okay, makes sense."

    "Little Yu really likes eating fish. Originally, it was called ''small fish'', but upon further consideration, that wouldn''t do. So, we named it Little Yu, taking myst name, Lin Yu. What do you think? Does it sound nice?"

    "Sounds good. Third Auntie picked the name. Whoever dares to say it''s not good, I''ll punch them."

    "Stop it. Whether you see it or not, if you see it then I''ll go call it."

    "Forget it, don''t see it. In case it sees me and remembers the past, and refuses to leave, what should we do?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He was afraid he couldn''t handle that kind of scene. Just by looking at the name Lin Die gave it, he knew that Big Shadiao wouldn''t endure hardship in the Lin family.

    "You''re right. When you left back then, it caused amotion for a full three years."

    "Help me apologize to it."

    "It''s all over now, oh right, almost forgot the important thing, where is the leader of the Five Elements Sect?"

    "He went to Zhonghang Sect to pay respects, I don''t think he''ll be back so soon. He also has to go to Cloud Sword Sect. Is there something you need?"

    "It''s not a big deal, this time during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, there are many good things. I just wanted to let you know so that our two families won''t fight each other. Instead, we can join forces against other sects and independent cultivators."

    "Did you guys always y like this before?"

    "Of course, if we didn''t take those treasures, would the independent cultivators and smaller forces be able to afford them? Would they be sold for such high prices? This is how we do it with all the high-level treasures in the cultivation cities of Yun State."

    Lin Die said. Those high-level treasures are shown off to attract the attention of smaller forces. The main buyers are still the few major forces. Anhua City now qualifies to participate in this game.

    It''s not just during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, this is how it works in other cities'' high-end auction houses too.

    "What an eye-opener!"

    Lin Jiang said. The advantages of the major sects are really terrifying. It''s really difficult for regr cultivators, even some intermediate forces, to obtain high-level resources. They have to pay a higher price.

    "Since your master is not here, I will leave first. I''ll let him know when hees back, and I''ll visit againter."

    "Or else, can you tell me?"

    "Can someone with a basic understanding of building construction make decisions?"

    "No, but my master listens to me for many things."

    "Okay, then I''ll tell you."

    Lin Die thought for a moment and took out a piece of jade scroll. Inside were the names of various auction items announced by the businesses in Yunzhong City. The items that the Lin family wanted to acquire were marked, mostly focusing on advanced breakthrough treasures.

    "The Lin family can''t handle so many, right?"

    "Definitely not. That''s why we need to discuss with the Five Elements Sect. During the auction, our two families should cooperate and raise the prices first, but we shouldn''t stubbornlypete against each other."

    "I understand. If the Lin family has any specific items they''re interested in, you can tell me, and I''ll discuss it with my master."

    "The Lin family will eat as much as they can, but let''s wait for your master toe back and discuss it in detail."

    Lin Die said. This is aplicated matter that involves bidding procedures. The one in charge must make the decision, and we must also coordinate with the Five Elements Sect. We don''t want to end up fighting amongst ourselves and let the seller take advantage.

    "Do you cooperate with other forces?"

    "Definitely, we have an understanding. You''ll find outter. I won''t tell you anymore. I have to visit other ces."

    "I''ll walk you there."

    "No need, I live on the street next to yours. The Lin family also has a residence here. If I want to see Little Yu, I''lle secretly. Remember, don''t expose your identity and don''t go see Cao Ying, okay?"

    "Okay, I got it."

    Lin Jiang nodded, Lin Die had warned him a long time ago that something was wrong with Cao Ying. He shouldn''t expose himself, otherwise the Zhonghang Sect might kill him to break Cao Ying''s Heart Demon.

 Chapter 183

    Chapter 183

    Yun StateгмZhonghang Sect

    Zhang Wanjing and his group arrived at Zhonghang Sect and were warmly weed. The rtionship between the three main sects in Yun State is generally good, although asional disputes are normal behavior.

    Zhonghang Sect has always been paying attention to Five Elements Sect. When Zhang Wanjing returned as a baby, Zhonghang Sect spected that there would be internal turmoil in Five Elements Sect. However, they didn''t expect that Zhang Wanjing would bring Shi Yuntang and receive unconditional support, instantly suppressing any dissent within Five Elements Sect.

    The subsequent transformation went very smoothly. Now, more than ten years have passed since the transformation of Five Elements Sect, and it has shown great results. The most direct manifestation is their actions in the Wilderness. Five Elements Sect upies two or three times the territory of Zhonghang Sect and has gained a lot of benefits.

    This makes Zhonghang Sect extremely envious. They also want to invest more power in the Wilderness, but they cannot do it because, just like Five Elements Sect before, they have a bloated system and most of their manpower is consumed within the sect, making it impossible to effectively utilize their human resources.

    Therefore, Zhonghang Sect also attempted to transform, but their attempts were only superficial. They don''t have someone like Zhang Wanjing, someone with outstanding character and abilities, as well as the courage to risk everything. After all, initiating transformation means challenging the vested interests, and who is willing to jeopardize their own position?

    Zhonghang Sect''s Nascent Soul is not cherished by anyone like Soul Changing cherishes Zhang Wanjing, with unconditional support.

    The sess of a transformation often requires thebination of many factors, such as favorable timing, location, and people.

    Because of this, Zhonghang Sect greatly envies the fact that Five Elements Sect has produced a disciple like Zhang Wanjing. They have a tremendous interest in him and give him a very warm wee."Senior Brother Zhang, how did you make Soul Changing Ancestor trust you so much?"

    In private, a Nascent Soul from Zhonghang Sect secretly asked. We envy you for this. When we were at the golden core stage, we didn''t receive the Life Talisman bestowed by Soul Changing. Is it something that normal people can have? With this treasure, even Nascent Souls can walk confidently.

    "You naturally have the protection of the Ancestor because you have always served the Sect wholeheartedly."

    Zhang Wanjing said calmly. It sounded like empty words, but it was also true. If it weren''t for his personality and actions, Shi Yuntang wouldn''t favor him.

    However, the Nascent Soul from Zhonghang Sect just smiled dismissively. Serving the Sect wholeheartedly, why would they joke around? Does that make him a viin? Why doesn''t Soul Changing from Zhonghang Sect favor him?

    Without further ado, Zhang Wanjing came to discuss matters. He represented Five Elements Sect and wanted to discuss the situation in the Wilderness with Zhonghang Sect. Ever since the Heavenly Wolf King died, the Thunder Cloud Beast has be the new Demon King of the Wilderness.

    However, the power of the Thunder Cloud Beast is not as strong as the previous Heavenly Wolf King. It has been heavily defeated by the three major sects. Several fourth-level demonic beasts have been killed by the humans in recent years. After that, the Thunder Cloud Beast went deeper into the Wilderness to seek help. When it returned, its strength had greatly increased and was no weaker than the previous Heavenly Wolf King. There are even new fourth-level demonic beasts appearing, causing another tug-of-war between the demons and humans.

    The three sects need to join forces to protect their own interests. They also need to expand their territory as much as possible, restrict the recovery of the demon race''s power, and limit the development of other forces. It''s not an easy task.

    The three sects have long understood this implicitly, but they still need to spend a long time discussing the details. When ites to interests, they all have topromise with each other.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Lin family''s residence, Anhua City. The Lin family is getting stronger and stronger. They have also bought properties in Yunzhong City as a permanent residence. Lin Die is currently discussing with the Lin family''s young members. This time, she brought arge sum of money to Yunzhong City to purchase a lot of resources and further enhance the Lin family''s strength.

    "Third Ancestor, someone outside is requesting to see you."

    "Who is it?"

    "Cao Ying, a disciple of Zhonghang Sect."

    "Take her to the living room. I willeter."

    "Yes, Third Ancestor."

    "You guys discuss first, and when you''re done, take separate actions."

    Lin Die said to some children of the Lin family. This time, many members of the Lin family havee. There are representatives from three or four generations, including young people from the seventh and eighth generations.

    "Taoist Friend Cao"

    "Sister Lin, no, Senior Lin"

    Cao Ying saw Lin Die and was amazed to find that Lin Die had already reached the Nascent Soul stage. She quickly changed her way of addressing her.

    "Let''s stick with calling me Sister Lin, don''t make me sound so old."

    "I envy you, sister. You are already at the Nascent Soul stage."

    "Friend Cao''s aura isplete. It shouldn''t be difficult for him to advance to the Nascent Soul stage."

    Lin Die said, many years ago Cao Ying had already achieved perfection in the Golden Core stage. She just hesitated to break through due to her Heart Demon problem.

    "Sister Lin, I came here to ask if you know where my uncle is."

    "He passed away, didn''t you know?"

    "What"

    As soon as Cao Ying heard it, her face turned pale and her eyes widened.

    "You heard correctly, he died."

    "Ah, impossible! How could he have died?"

    "How long has it been since youst saw him?"

    "It has been a hundred years. Thest Centennial Celebration, he left without saying goodbye. After that, I received several letters from him, but for the past thirty years or so, I haven''t received any."

    "That''s right, that''s why he died."

    "No way, Sister Lin, don''t lie to me."

    "Calcte it yourself, how old is he?"

    "This, this..."

    Cao Ying couldn''t answer because she didn''t know how old Lin Jiang was.

    "The Building Foundation Period is only 200 years, but that''s just a theory. It could be around 170-180 years, or even a little over 200. Lin Wu adopted you when he was already quite old, so it''s only natural for him to pass away."

    "Impossible, impossible! Sister Lin must be deceiving me."

    "Why would I deceive you?"

    "My uncle is rich and can buy longevity treasures. It''s impossible for him to just die like that."

    "You can''t simply buy longevity treasures. Taoist Friend Cao, there''s no need for you to be like this. Life, aging, sickness, and death aremon to all humans, and the same goes for cultivators. After all, cultivators are not immortals."

    "Impossible, impossible!"

    "If you can''t understand, there''s nothing I can do."

    Lin Die shook her head, feeling sorry for Cao Ying, but she had to do it as told in the Ouyang Qing, no matter if he was dead or not, she had to bite him to death, Lin Wu is dead.

    "Sister Lin, how did he die and where was he buried?"

    "I don''t know. I''m sure he''s dead because his beast pet has returned and the Master-servant Contract has disappeared. You should know that either the owner voluntarily terminates the Master-servant Contract or the owner dies."

    "Yes, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, can I meet them?"

    "No, this belongs to my Lin family."

    "Sister Lin, this is my uncle''s beast pet."

    "Lin Wu inherited it from his father, who was a descendant of my Lin family. Who do you think it belongs to?"

    "I just want to meet them once. I won''t take them away, Sister Lin, please."

    "Taoist Friend Cao, don''t me me for being heartless. High-level beast pets are of tremendous value. If you don''t want it, it doesn''t mean the Zhonghang Sect won''te for it. To avoid future disputes, it''s better not to meet them. I''m also sad that Lin Wu died, after all, he was a member of my Lin family, but people can''te back to life, so please mourn."

    Lin Die firmly refused, the reason seemed reasonable. The third and fourth level beast pets were already very valuable, and it was uncertain if Zhonghang Sect had other ideas. The sessor was yet to be determined.

    Cao Ying kept begging, but Lin Die remained firm, with a very cold expression, worsening Cao Ying''s mood once again.

    "Friend Cao, your dao heart is unstable, it''s time for you to go back and meditate. I have something to attend to, so I''ll leave first."

    "Sister Linбдбдбд"

    "Seeing the guest off."

    Lin Die said coldly, and several golden core experts appeared, gesturing for Cao Ying to leave. Cao Ying hesitated but had no choice but to go.

    After everyone left, Lin Die took out a Sound Passing Talisman and sent a message towards Zhonghang Sect, informing Ouyang Qing that she had done what she had asked. Whether Cao Ying could let go and move on was no longer her concern.

    A momentter, Ouyang Qing in Zhonghang Sect received the message, crushing the Sound Passing Talisman. Chen Mingyang, who was nearby, asked. Madam, what''s the matter?

    "It''s about Cao Ying, Lin Die helped."

    "Is it useful to do this?"

    "It''s the only way for now. We''ve tried everything, and Lin Wu is nowhere to be found. We can only resort to thisst resort."

    "If Cao Ying finds out about this, she will hate you."

    "Hate all you want. It''s still better than ruining everything now. There are few women with Nascent Soul in the cultivation world, and crossing the line of emotions is the most difficult. Family, love, friendship, once involved, there will be no good oue."

    "*cough cough*"

    Chen Mingyang coughed twice, saying such things. Don''t you have any feelings for him anymore? It''s so hurtful to say it in front of him.

    "I wasn''t talking about you, I was talking about Cao Ying."

    "I know, I know. Let''s not talk about it anymore, let''s not talk about it."

    "We must keep this matter a secret, understand?"

    "I won''t tell you, I promise."

    Chen Mingyang nodded. The sect had invested a lot in Cao Ying, and they expected her to repay them once she broke through the Nascent Soul stage. He surely wouldn''t speak out of turn.

 Chapter 184

    Chapter 184

    Yun StateгмYunzhong City

    After spending a few days wandering in Yunzhong City, Zhang Wanjing finally returned. He had visited the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect, and only arrived at the base camp the night before the great celebration. Lin Die came to his door that day and they talked for a long time.

    "Xiao Yi, are you a member of the Lin family?"

    "Yes, Master."

    "I won''t ask you about the extra details, but I''ll tell you some news - things seem to be going wrong for the Lin family."

    "Master, what happened?"

    Lin Jiang became worried immediately, what did Lin Die say to Zhang Wanjing?

    "I''m not sure of the specifics, but it''s what I figured out. It''s best for the sect or the family to have stable annual expenses and ie. Even if there''s sudden expansion and they gain a lot of benefits, they need time to gradually digest it.

    I''ve seen the list from Lin Die, and it''s abnormal. The Lin family is overextending their resources, which is very unusual for a power. Something bad might be happening to the Lin family."Zhang Wanjing said, as he held power in the sect and knew roughly how much ie the major sects in Yun State earn each year, the actions of the Lin family are already overextending their resources.

    This is a very foolish choice for a power. For example, let''s say the Lin family currently has five disciples in the Golden Core stage. Buying infant treasures for them costs five million spirit stones. If they were to buy all at once, it would require a resource of twenty-five million spirit stones. If all of them were to breakthrough to the Nascent Soul stage, they would naturally make a big profit.

    However, this is rarely the case. Usually, they would choose one or two individuals to focus on cultivating, and the rest would find their own paths. The extra resources should be saved for the next batch of disciples. This is what a qualified power should do.

    And now, the Lin family seems to be taking a desperate gamble. This all-in approach is meaningless, no matter how many times they seed, because one failure could be irrecoverable.

    "Master, what should I do?"

    Lin Jiang asked, recalling the words Lin Die told him, that the Lin family is in great danger.

    "How long has it been since you paid attention to the strength of the Lin family?"

    "What?"

    "ording to reliable information, Lin Batian most likely has already broken through the Soul Changing stage. Both of the Lin family''s twin beauties are now at the Nascent Soul stage, and the Lin family has sixteen people with golden cores. Even if you cultivate in ce right now, it wouldn''t be much help to the Lin family if you were to go all out."

    "Soul Changing, Master, were you not lying to me? Is it really so easy to break through with Soul Changing?"

    Lin Jiang was dumbfounded. Was his father really that powerful? Is Soul Changing as easy for him as drinking water and eating food?

    "Why would I deceive you? Lin Batian''s background is extremely mysterious. The Five Elements Sect has been investigating for many years without any conclusion. Shi Yuntang Martial Uncle might know, but he won''t say. Over thirty years ago, Lin Batian single-handedly fought against eleven opponents in the Wilderness, and even killed the Heavenly Wolf King. At that time, he was already in thete Nascent Soul stage or evenplete. As for how he broke through with Soul Changing, I would also like to know. If you have a chance, could you ask him for me?"

    "Ahem, Master, to the Lin family, I am just a minor character. I''m not even considered a legitimate child."

    "Is that so? But I see that Lin Die has shown great concern for you."

    "Maybe it''s because of my higher status. The Lin family is on the verge of extinction for three generations now."

    Lin Jiang said, in the second generation of the Lin family, which includes himself, Lin Die, and Lin Ying, there are only three people left. The second child, Lin He, stopped at the Building Foundation Period and passed away.

    As for the third generation of the Lin family, there aren''t many people left. Except for those who have reached the golden core stage or are very young, most of the third generation of the Lin family, born during Lin Jiang''s time, have already passed away. After all, Lin Jiang is over three hundred years old.

    "Forget it, let''s not talk about this anymore. The reason I told you this is to say that if something happens to the Lin family one day, don''t foolishly rush out. It''s useless. Preserve yourself, improve your cultivation, that''s the most sensible and correct choice, you know?"

    "I know, Master."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Zhang Wanjing''s words were correct and very wise, but if Lin Jiang didn''thing, perhaps he wouldn''t be able to achieve anything.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Centennial Celebration officially began. The Five Elements Sect split up and the various golden core cultivators led their own teams to participate in the auction held by different businesses. Meanwhile, Zhang Wanjing participated in the auction co-hosted by Duobao Pavilion and Picking Stars Tower, which should be thergest in Yunzhong City.

    "If any of you find something you like, you can bid together in the name of our sect. There are discounts and you basically don''t need to pay the transaction fee."

    "Thank you, Master."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle Zu."

    Lin Jiang and the others were instantly overjoyed. They thanked Zhang Wanjing and the buyers and sellers at the auction, who had to pay an additional five percent as a handling fee and tax. If the amount wasrge, it would be quite a substantial sum. If they could avoid paying this money, they could save a lot of spirit stones.

    "Master, I want to buy all of these."

    Lin Jiang secretly took out a list of items up for auction and marked the ones he wanted to bid on, then handed it to Zhang Wanjing.

    "Xiao Yi, how much money have you made over these years?"

    Zhang Wanjing was amazed. If Lin Jiang managed to buy all the items, he would have more wealth than him. Could his disciple really make so much money?

    "Master, ''made'' is the right word, not ''made a fortune.'' This is hard-earned money, you know?"

    "Hehe."

    "Master, please don''t look at me like that, and don''t try to rob me again. I, Xiao Yi, am determined and will notpromise."

    "Immature."

    Zhang Wanjing looked away, thinking about the Lin family''s words. Forget it, I''ll let you off, kid.

    "Dear Taoist friends, I am Cloud Sword Sect''s He Ruoxu, the auctioneer for today''s Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. We have many new faces this time..."

    As the auctioneer took the stage, he began to speak. During the once-in-a-hundred-years celebration in Yunzhong City, there would be many unfamiliar faces. Old friends pass away, and new ones appear, so he needed to exin the rules.

    However, he didn''t waste time and quickly started the auction. On the first day, both sects brought out many valuable treasures, including various resources needed by cultivators.

    Each item was brought up on stage, and the people below started bidding. When something Lin Jiang needed came up, he didn''t hesitate and raised the price.

    Independent cultivators and small faction cultivators below quickly became desperate. They thought that by putting all their wealth on the line, they would be able to acquire the resources they needed at the auction. However, they soon realized that their prideful wealth was nothing more than a jokepared to therger sects.

    "Next item, the sixth-grade Endless Energy Pill, refined by Pill King Li Ruoxu. The effects and features of the Endless Energy Pill are written on the wall behind me. There are a total of twenty pills, sold in sets of two. Starting at 100,000 spirit stones, the top ten bidders will win. Please write down your prices, Taoist friends. You have 15 minutes."

    "Three hundred thousand spirit stones"

    Lin Jiang decisively wrote down his number. The sixth-level Endless Energy Pill was the best healing pill avable in the Yun State market, and only Li Ruoxu could produce it for sale. Lin Jiang didn''t have enough of his own, and the price wouldn''t be low.

    After a quarter of an hour, the auctioneer made an offer. The three hundred thousand spirit stones were just the tenth highest bid, which made Lin Jiang breathe a sigh of relief.

    The auction continued, one good item after another. Not all of them were within Lin Jiang''s budget though. Some items were just too expensive, and Lin Jiang didn''t want to be taken advantage of.

    "The Centennial Celebrationsts for many days, there''s no rush. Take it slow."

    Lin Jiangforted himself, believing that good things wouldn''t all appear in one day. He still had a chance.

    It wasn''t until dawn that the auction finally ended and everyone dispersed. Lin Jiang followed Zhang Wanjing to deliver the auctioned items. There were indeed no handling fees, just like during the Medicine Conference held in Medicine City. The Three Sects really knew how to y the game.

    "In a few days, I will be attending some exchange meetings. I will bring two people with me. Which one of you junior brothers will go, and the other spot has already been filled."

    Back at their residence, Zhang Wanjing asked Zhang Shuhua and Lin Jiang. As the team leader, he couldn''t always be apanied by his own disciples. The others also deserved a chance to broaden their horizons.

    "Senior brother, you go, my skills are too low, going there won''t be of any use."

    "Junior brother, are you going to miss out on such a great opportunity?"

    "Boring, besides, I haven''t finished buying the things I want, I have ns."

    Lin Jiang refused. He wasn''t interested in those high-level exchanges. When ites to discussing skills, he can''t understand it. As for sharing information, it''s useless to him. Without reaching a certain level, he can''t digest or absorb such information. As for trading items, he doesn''t have any treasures on him, he just has a lot of spirit stones. It''s better not to go and instead participate in other auctions to see if he can get anything good.

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185

    Outside Yunzhong City in the state of Yun

    At a stall in the ck market in Sanjiang Estuary Town, Lin Jiang put up a sign with the things he wanted to buy. He himself wore a ck robe and sat at the stall.

    There were many pedestrians, but not many came to inquire. The ck market was not a big marketce, and scenes of bargaining were rare. The whole ck market maintained a eerie silence, and even if there wasmunication, it was mostly done through telepathy.

    Lin Jiang wanted to buy many things, but what he wanted the most was the main ingredient for making another furnace of Spirit Integrating Pills. Previously, in the Five Elements Sect, he and Wei Yunshen and others had pooled their resources to make a furnace, but there were still some left. Two furnaces were not enough, so Lin Jiang came to the ck market to try his luck.

    Additionally, he also wanted to buy a level-four Demon Core for Small Shadiao. He looked around Yunzhong City, visited all the medium-sized stores, but couldn''t find a level-four Demon Core. It was just too rare.

    Overnight, Lin Jiang closed his stall and returned to Yunzhong City. Sanjiang Estuary Town was not far from Yunzhong City, and it was a route that Yunzhong City focused on protecting. It was very safe.

    After returning to the base, he quickly rushed to a certain store to attend an auction. Yunzhong City stores held auctions at different times to avoid ovepping and decreasing the number of customers.

    This made Lin Jiang very busy. Since the start of the big celebration, he hadn''t slept much in the bed in his base room.

    Once he got the desired item, Lin Jiang hurried off to the next store. In addition to that, he also asked Zhang Shuhua to help him purchase items. He was really overloaded and wished he could instantly create a clone. Unfortunately, his power was too weak, and he couldn''t make a clone."Junior brother, just how much stuff did you buy? You seem busier than my dad."

    Zhang Shuhua handed Lin Jiang''s things to him and asked. Out of all the disciples from the Five Elements Sect who came here, you''re the busiest, Lin Jiang.

    "I didn''t buy much, just random stuff."

    "You''re fooling me. Through my hands and what I saw you buy, it adds up to over a million spirit stones, right? I''m really curious, just how much money do you have?"

    Zhang Shuhua asked. Does the cultivation world''s business have a report on how much money they made? No one knows how much Lin Jiang has earned in the past ten years. Not just him, many people are curious.

    "Senior brother, want to take a guess?"

    "Can''t guess."

    "Senior brother, who do you think is the richest among the disciples of the sect?"

    "Alchemist"

    "Alchemist is a good guess."

    Lin Jiang sneered and said. Among the Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, the Four Arts of Cultivating Immortals, Alchemist is considered the richest by most people.

    But in reality, it''s not like that. Just like in Blue Star, programmers are considered rich by ordinary people. Programmers in certain bigpanies can make a million a year, and if they are at a higher level, three to five million is also possible. They are the rising stars of the inte.

    However, in reality, they can''tpare to certain industries, such as those providing sand and gravel for construction sites in certain regions, or industries backed by organizations, like urban greening or sanitation. Of course, thetter cannot be workers, they have to be the bosses.

    Lin Jiang was in charge of the food and supplies for the Five Elements Sect, which made him a lot of money. He also provided materials for the Pill Hall and Talisman Hall.

    These pills and spiritual talismans were of low value individually, but when there were many of them, it became terrifying.

    Lin Jiang didn''t reveal how much money he made, but he could say that he was richer than any other disciple in the Five Elements Sect''s Building Foundation Period. Even their most senior disciples couldn''tpare.

    This doesn''t mean that Lin Jiang''s business was bigger than theirs, but rather that those people didn''t receive arge share of the profits. Most of them were like middlemen, while Lin Jiang was in a unique position. Zhang Wanjing had only borrowed money from Lin Jiang before, and those people gave most of their profits to others. It''s apletely different concept.

    "You''re so rich, you should bring your martial brothers along when you go back."

    Zhang Shuhua was stunned for a moment, then said that he also realized that his junior martial brother had truly be wealthy.

    "That''s great. Now that you''ve be sessful, you won''t forget about your martial brothers."

    Lin Jiang smiled and thought that ording to the rules, most of the money he had should have belonged to Zhang Shuhua and Zhang Wanjing. However, they were too honest, so Lin Jiang ended up with the money. Naturally, Lin Jiang wouldn''t be stingy with them, or else why would he have given away the Spirit Integrating Pill before?

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    On the fifth day of Daqing, the Zhonghang Sect brought out the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill, and the Cloud Sword Sect brought out the Divine Spirit Pill for auction. These two types of pills can help cultivators in the Foundation Building stage. This caused a frenzy among the cultivators in the Foundation Building stage, and the auction event was almost overcrowded.

    "Xiao Yi, the sect will not auction off these two pill treasures. It''s an unspoken agreement, meant for independent cultivators and small factions. If you want to bid, give it your all."

    Zhang Wanjing said to Lin Jiang that this was the game rule they had set. It is extremely difficult for independent cultivators and disciples of small factions to reach the Foundation Building stage, so this is a little bit of hope specially prepared for them.

    Only when they achieve the Foundation Building stage, will there be some vitality in the cultivation world of Yun State. Only then will they be enticed to take risks and gather wealth, only to be harvested by the major sects.

    "I know, Master. I am determined to get the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill."

    Lin Jiang said that disciples of major sects may not necessarily have more resources than independent cultivators and small factions, unless they have a lucky encounter. Tonight, they will be the protagonists.

    But tonight, Lin Jiang will be a dark horse, supported by the major sect. How could he bepared to those small factions? Otherwise, he wouldn''t have put so much effort into joining the Five Elements Sect.

    In his over three hundred years of life, entering the Five Elements Sect was his most correct choice, and the benefits he gained were truly abundant.

    Item after item was auctioned off, and soon it was time for the auction of the Divine Spirit Pill.

    "Dear Taoist friends, the next auction item is the Amazing Spirit Pill. Without wasting time, the bidding starts now! The starting price is 800,000 spirit stones, and each bid must be at least 10,000 spirit stones. No small change allowed."

    "810,000."

    "910,000."

    "1.2 million."

    "1.3 million."

    Thepetition for the Amazing Spirit Pill was extremely intense. In just a few seconds, the price soared to 1.3 million, eliminating most of the people, especially the independent cultivators who appeared gloomy.

    "The auction for this Foundation Establishment treasure is much more intense than before. The prices will be much higher. Xiao Yi, be cautious."

    Said Zhang Wanjing, who had done some research. The previous auctions for Foundation Establishment treasures didn''t reach such high prices. This was mainly due to the actions of the Three Sects in the Wilderness.

    When the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit matured, it attracted many beasts in the Wilderness. It wasn''t just the Three Sects who benefited; the independent cultivators were also the same. After the Heavenly Wolf King died in battle, there was a period of time before the Thunder Cloud Beast became the new Demon King. During this time, the Three Sects rapidly expanded in the Wilderness, and so did the independent cultivators and small ns.

    Many factorsbined, the small family and independent cultivator gathered a huge wealth, directly raising the price of the treasure by a lot. Both Cloud Sword Sect and Zhonghang Sect were about to get rich. Zhang Wanjing knew very well how much it cost to make such a pill.

    Lin Jiang nodded and said. Not much actually. I was just watching the auction. The price went up to one million five hundred thousand spirit stones and then slowly stopped. This is already beyond the limit for most people.

    "One million seven hundred and fifty thousand. Anyone else bidding? I''ll count to three. If no one bids, we''ll stop."

    Seeing that no one else bid after one million seven hundred and fifty thousand, the auctioneer started encouraging the crowd. But no one dared to raise the price again.

    One million seven hundred and fifty thousand is just the price for the pill alone. There''s also a five percent handling fee, as well as additional costs for auxiliary pills and the extra spiritual energy provided by the Spirit Gathering Formation during a breakthrough. The overall expenses easily exceed two million. If you''re an independent cultivator, you''ll also need a safe environment, which adds to the already huge expenditure.

    And this is a fund that needs to be raised in a short amount of time. If you win the bid, you must take it and use it as soon as possible. Otherwise, it would be too dangerous. Once the news leaks out, there will be so many people willing to take a risk.

    Independent cultivator learned from bitter experience and told others that once you obtain this kind of pill, you must use it as soon as possible.

    "The next item is the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill from Zhonghang Sect. I won''t go into too much detail. Same rule as before, starting at eight hundred thousand spirit stones. Let''s begin."

    "One million eight hundred thousand spirit stones."

    As soon as the auctioneer finished speaking, Lin Jiang''s voice exploded in the auction hall. Countless people were speechless and unable to utter a word.

    In the next moment, countless minds and gazes focused on the box of the Five Elements Sect, conducting investigations.

    "Hmph."

    Zhang Wanjing snorted coldly, and his powerful consciousness swept across the scene, forcing those people to retract their gazes and thoughts.

    "It''s the Five Elements Sect."

    "A disciple in the Nascent Soul stage."

    "This is bad."

    Many people secretly felt uneasy. Although the Five Elements Sect might not take action, this involved the power of the sect. It didn''t mean that Nascent Soul cultivators couldn''t act individually. It''s just that most Nascent Soul cultivators wouldn''t do so, because the prominent sect''s Nascent Soul cultivators had privileges and it wouldn''t be too difficult for them to refine a pill.

    "One million eight hundred and ten thousand."

    "One million eight hundred and twenty thousand."

    "Two million."

    Seeing someone else raise the price, Lin Jiang suddenly increased it to two million.

    "Senior brothers, I don''t have enough spirit stones. If someone else raises the price, please help me."

    "Those who have money can lend it to him. I''ll guarantee for him."

    Zhang Wanjing also said on the side, then he sent a message to Lin Jiang. It''s not enough. You should consider repaying the debt.

    "Repay the debt."

    Lin Jiang suddenly felt angry. Is there anyone who acts as a master like you? You still haven''t considered repaying the debt at this time. Damn you.

    The cover for book 15 of the xianxia (cultivation) novel "Cultivation: Being Immortal" sold on Amazon

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186

    Yunzhong City, auction

    The disciples from Five Elements Sect were amazed by Lin Jiang''s arrogance, even the sect''s golden core. Five Elements Sect only gives a sry of ten thousand spirit stones to the golden core disciples per year. Even though no one relies on the sry to make a living, it''s still a lot.

    "No wonder Xiao Yi wants to be a disciple of Nascent Soul. He''s so rich. Senior brother, tell me, how did Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle choose him over me at such a young age?"

    "Ahem, junior brother, be careful. What if Nascent Soul can hear our conversation?"

    "That couldn''t be true."

    "A few years ago, some Martial Uncles wanted to join forces to steal Xiao Yi'' business, but Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle stopped them. At that time, I thought those Martial Uncles were too petty. Now, I realize that the fool is actually myself."

    "After we go back, we need to cling to Senior Brother Xiao''s leg. It''s so ridiculously powerful."

    Inside the private box of Five Elements Sect, the disciples were whispering and discussing. The heartless Lin Jiang naturally became the main topic of their conversation."Kid, now it''s time to spill the beans. How much money did you make? If you don''t tell the truth, I won''t let it go tonight."

    "Teacher, I don''t have much money. I can earn around one hundred thousand spirit stones in a year from the restaurant. The Pill Hall and Talisman Hall would give me about two hundred thousand, so in a year it won''t exceed four hundred thousand spirit stones. This is my twenty years'' worth of savings."

    Lin Jiang reluctantly confessed that eighty percent of what he said was true. Even though he may seem wealthy and heartless now, it was actually umted over twenty years. He had advanced this year''s dividends in advance.

    "Twenty years, forty thousand in a year? You have more wealth than me, kid. Despite that, you''re still thinking about the fifty thousand spirit stones?"

    "Teacher, you don''t understand the hardships your disciple has been through. These years, I''ve been frugal and saved every penny. I even used up most of my savings on the Spirit Integrating Pill..."

    Lin Jiang immediatelyined about being broke. He thought these years had been quite unpleasant. When Yue Qing and the others received money, they would spend it carelessly. As for him, he had to be frugal.

    Even so, the expenses over the years were not small. Thergest portion went to the Spirit Integrating Pill, followed by Small Shadiao. He had already reached the peak of the Third Order with Small Shadiao. Finally, there were Lin Jiang''s own expenses. His cultivation had reached the peak of the Building Foundation stage, and he had consumed a lot of medicine over the years. It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say that it was like eating it as a meal.

    The real ce to save money was in personal enjoyment. If he were like Yue Qing and marry multiple mistresses, have a dozen children, and frequently attend Pce Banquets forvish feasts, no amount of money would be enough.

    "Alright, alright, stopining about being broke. I won''t take anything from you."

    "Even if you wanted to take it, it wouldn''t be possible. This time I came to Yunzhong City, I''ve spent all my money."

    Lin Jiang said that he had a bunch of nice things in his storage bag, which he thought he could get for free. But actually, they were all exchanged with shiny spirit stones.

    "No one is arguing with you. You can go and deliver the elixirs now."

    Zhang Wanjing told Lin Jiang that he was being too arrogant, as he defeated all his opponents directly.

    Lin Jiang nodded and quickly went to deliver the elixirs. Along with the transaction fee, he took out two hundred and ten thousand spirit stones and filled up a whole medium-sized storage bag.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang swaggered back with Zhang Wanjing. He wasn''t afraid of being robbed anymore. If he had been an independent cultivator before, now he had to think about where to hide.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Lin Wu, you really shocked your Third Auntiest night. It seems like you''re doing well in the Five Elements Sect."

    Early the next day, Lin Die came to Lin Jiang''s door and spoke to him.

    "It''s alright, nothing special."

    "You were right not to go back to the Lin family, the Lin family wouldn''t give you such great benefits."

    "Third Auntie can speak openly."

    "Third Auntie also took a liking to the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill fromst night, it was intended for Lin Dongyan''s breakthrough."

    "Lin Dongyanг┐"

    "Your eldest uncle''s descendant, the eighth generation of the Lin family."

    "Sorry, Third Auntie, I also need this pill."

    "You are Zhang Wanjing''s disciple, can''t you get any Pill Refining treasures from the Five Elements Sect? This shouldn''t be the case."

    "My master indeed had a quota for a pill, but he gave it to my senior brother. He didn''t want to show favoritism, and I didn''t even mention it."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, the Five Elements Sect also distributed a batch of Pill Refining treasures in the previous years, but Lin Jiang didn''t bother to apply, not wanting to make things difficult for Zhang Wanjing.

    "That would be a shame, as Lin Dongyan has great talent."

    "Auntie, how skilled is the Lin family in alchemy now?"

    "It''s alright. Among the fourth generation descendants of Second Elder Brother Lin He, there is a prodigy in alchemy named Lin Chengzhi. He is currently a fifth-level Alchemist. The family has paid a great price to let him study under Pill King Li Ruoxu for ten years."

    "Being a fifth-level Alchemist is impressive. Auntie, would you be interested in coborating once and concocting a batch of Spirit Integrating Pills?"

    "Do you have the ingredients for the Spirit Integrating Pill?"

    "The Spirit Integrating Pill requires twelve main ingredients. I have gathered nine of them and forty-five types of auxiliary medicinal materials. Do you have the recipe?"

    "Yes, tell me what materials you have obtained. Perhaps we can gather enough for a batch."

    "They are all here."

    Lin Jiang took out a storage bag from his person and handed it to Lin Die. He had over a dozen storage bags on him, each containing various things.

    "We are missing one main ingredient, but it''s not a problem. I''ll send a message to Lin Ying and ask her to go to the Wilderness to find it."

    "Alright, I''ll leave these herbs to you. When the medicine is finished, please give me at least one pill. Is that okay?"

    "You''re being stingy, only taking one?"

    "Consider it a small favor to the family."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He already had a Spirit Integrating Pill and a Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill. With another one, he thought it should be enough. It shouldn''t be as difficult as breaking through the Building Foundation stage.

    "No, I can''t take advantage of you like this."

    "How about this? Does Lin family have a fourth-order Demon Core? I want to help Small Shadiao break through."

    "Yes, a few years ago, father killed a fourth-order monster."

    "Is it a flying-type?"

    "No, it''s a Rock Beast, but if you need it, we can help you get it."

    "Then it would trouble you. I will buy a Tier 4 Demon Core with money, but I don''t have any now. Can I wait a few more years?"

    "We are all family, let''s not talk about this."

    "Business is business. How about this, you should have people in Medicine City too, right? After I go back, I will find them and get you some good things."

    Lin Jiang said, with his authority, it wouldn''t be difficult to get some good things from the Five Elements Sect.

    "Don''t vite the rules of your sect."

    "Don''t worry, I''m not foolish. Everything is reasonable andpliant."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he wouldn''t do anything improper, guaranteeing that others would have nothing to criticize.

    "Alright, it''s settled then. When the timees, you will go to the Lin family''s residence in Medicine City. Remember to be discreet and not expose our rtionship."

    "I know."

    "I''m leaving first."

    Lin Die nodded and then went to find Zhang Wanjing. It seemed like they just passed by and had a few words. The time they spent discussing was not long.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang continued to buy things. He still needed some other medicines for his injury, and he wanted to buy them all at once. If he didn''t have enough money, he would borrow from others. His reputation was very good, so it was easy for him to borrow money.

    After the celebration in Daqing, Lin Jiang helped Zhang Wanjing with the ounts. Wow, this time the Five Elements Sect spent billions of spirit stones.

    "Master, I think we should have gotten one-fifth of the good things from the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, right?"

    "What ''we,'' it''s the sect''s."

    "Yeah, our sect''s."

    "Almost, about 80% of the good things were taken by other forces, and the remaining 20% were bought by independent cultivators like Li Ruoxu. Most independent cultivators and small forces only managed to buy about 10%."

    "Is this considered a trap?"

    It can be considered as one or not. First of all, whether it''s the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration or our Medicine Conference, we have brought out really good things. But these good things are very expensive, and not everyone can afford them. The real buyers are those forces in Yun State that have medium or higher strength, just like this time''s Pill Formation treasures.

    Even if a few dark horses asionally appear, it doesn''t matter. After all, the three sects are not afraid of Yun State having a few more small forces at the Golden Core stage. The Foundation Establishment treasures will not be brought out.

    We are ying this way, hoping that independent cultivators will participate, to trade and provide some of the good things they have obtained, to integrate resources for mutual benefits and without harm.

    "It''s an opportunity to harvest them. They really know how to y."

    "This is the way things work in Yun State. The major sects have many traps waiting for you to fall into. You have no choice but to fall into them. Do you know why I am eager for changes in the sect? It''s because once the sect declines, if the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect don''t weaken, they will not hesitate to pounce on us and devour us. Then we will be the ones being harvested."

    "If there are signs of decline in the Zhonghang Sect and Cloud Sword Sect, we will also take a bite and help elerate their weakening."

    "Definitely, in the world of cultivation, the strong prey on the weak. If you''re weak, you''re just a piece of meat. That''s why the three sects have been cautious about expanding for many years. Expansion can fail, so they choose to adopt a defensive stance."

    "It''s equally cruel."

    Lin Jiang sighed. The life of an independent cultivator was harsh, just like being part of a sect. Unless you remain a small fry, responsibility and obligations are shouldered by others. Otherwise, you have to confront this kind of cruelty head-on.

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187

    The Five Elements Sect, the entrance gate

    Zhang Wanjing and Lin Jiang''s group returned, sessfullypleting the sect''s mission. At the same time, they also brought back gossip about what happened in Yunzhong City.

    News spread about Lin Jiang''s extravagant spending at the auction, causing a stir among the lower-level disciples. They couldn''t imagine a Building Foundation Period cultivator spending two million spirit stones to buy a Spirit Integrating Pill.

    "There must be some hidden plot."

    "Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle always pretended to care about the public, but it was all fake. How much money did his disciples actually embezzle?"

    "The character setting has fallen apart. They im it''s for reform and the sect, but it''s really all about their own interests."

    In just a few days, ck Clothes Hall received arge number of reports, with 90% of them targeting Lin Jiang. But Lin Jiang wasn''t worried, as he knew they wouldn''t find any evidence to catch him.

    They couldn''t find any clues, so they started talking again. They said it was a conspiracy and that this is called protecting each other. The firepower was very strong, but Lin Jiang couldn''t be bothered with them.Lin Jiang had known for a long time that no matter what you do, you can''t please everyone. There will always be someone criticizing you from a different perspective. This applies to change and writing books as well.

    Lin Jiang was busy with his own affairs. He bought some supplementary pills and it wasn''t enough, so he asked someone to refine them. He only needed Lin Die''s Spirit Integrating Pill and then everything would be ready. He went to Zhang Wanjing''s residence to go into seclusion. Everything was prepared, only waiting for the right moment.

    But not long after, Zhang Shuhua brought Lin Jiang some bad news. Zhang Shuhua said. The group led by Jin Yu has returned.

    "Wasn''t he sent to the Wilderness as a punishment?"

    "It''s been twenty years, junior brother, and there are people protecting him in the Wilderness. He managed to aplish a small feat within a year or two. There''s no problem with the rules."

    Zhang Shuhua said that initially there were more than ten people with golden cores who were demoted to the Wilderness, and arge number of people in the Building Foundation Period. Over the course of twenty years, two golden core cultivators died and at least twenty Building Foundation Period cultivators.

    Jin Yu didn''t die. He had people protecting him and he never got assigned to dangerous missions. Instead, he would receive news of his achievements every year or two. It''s normal for him to return after twenty years.

    "He must really hate us, right?"

    "Isn''t that nonsense? Those who have been banished to the Wilderness, formed their own group and have a strong hostility towards us. Half of the recent reports against you were from them."

    "Is senior brother worried?"

    "Can''t you worry? I was previously betrayed by someone, and I suspect it was them who did it."

    "Senior brother, don''t worry. We are not the same as before. We are not weaker than them."

    Lin Jiang said. They are not just a group of scattered soldiers anymore. They are also a group. Zhang Shuhua is in the golden core stage, and Wei Yunshen and the others are also in the golden core stage. Their strength is not much weaker than theirs.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Why? Why, after five generations of hard work from my family, should you surpass me with just twenty years of cultivation?"

    Jin Man was being stopped by a few disciples at the Internal Affairs Hall, but he still roared, questioning their souls. On the opposite side of him stood a steward named He Lianshan from the Internal Affairs Hall.

    Jin Man is Jin Yu''s son and used to be He Lianshan''s superior. He Lianshan was just a runner and a low-ranking disciple of the Internal Affairs Hall at that time. The Internal Affairs Hall has numerous disciples like grains of rice.

    Jin Yu was sent to Wilderness, and Jin Man too. They both spent twenty years in Wilderness, enduring hardships. Finally, when they returned, they went to Internal Affairs Hall and saw that their former little brother had be a steward. This surprised Jin Man greatly.

    "Steward, Jin Man didn''t mean it. Please don''t be like him."

    "Steward..."

    The people nearby tried to persuade He Lianshan to leave first and not pay attention to Jin Man, who they thought was crazy.

    "He Lianshan, don''t run away. Come back here!"

    Jin Man continued to shout loudly. He had truly been surprised. In the past, he had been very sessful. He himself was a steward in Internal Affairs Hall, and his father was the Deputy Master of the Internal Affairs Hall. Later, he even became the Hall Master for a period of time. Other members of his family held important positions too. Everyone wanted to please them, and they were always surrounded by admirers.

    "He Lianshan, why are you leaving?"

    Just as He Lianshan was preparing to avoid the situation, Lin Jiang appeared. Yu Wanke and other high-ranking members of Internal Affairs Hall were with him.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, Hall Master Yu..."

    When He Lianshan and the others saw, they quickly bowed.

    "He Lianshan, I ask you, where are you going?"

    "Senior Brother Xiao, I..."

    "Are you afraid of him?"

    "Senior Brother Xiao, I''m not afraid, it''s because..."

    "Since you''re not afraid, then where are you going?"

    Lin Jiang kept getting closer, and He Lianshan timidly lowered his head, not daring to meet Lin Jiang''s gaze.

    Lin Jiang walked up to him, reached out his hand and put it around He Lianshan''s shoulder. He exerted force and shouted at him, "Stand up straight, remember, you are a steward of the Internal Affairs Hall, not anyone''s servant, not anyone''s little brother."

    "Yes, Senior Brother Xiao."

    "Your position as an Internal Affairs Hall steward is given to you by the sect, not by anyone else."

    "Yes."

    "Now you tell him why your twenty years of cultivation can surpass the efforts of his family''s five generations."

    "Senior Brother Xiao, I, I..."

    "You can''t say it, let me say it for you."

    Lin Jiang saw that he was nervous and nodded at him. He was quite familiar with He Lianshan, having dealt with him multiple times. He Lianshan was efficient in handling tasks but not good with words, so Lin Jiang decided to help him out.

    "Jin Man, didn''t you ask He Lianshan why his twenty years of cultivation can surpass the efforts of your family''s five generations? Well, today I''ll tell you, it''s because your family, the Jin family, is useless and worthless."

    "Xiao Yi, how dare you insult my Jin family!"

    "How did I insult your Jin family? Did I speak the truth?"

    "Don''t stop me, I''ll fight him."

    "Don''t stop him, let him do it."

    Jin Man made a determined pose, and Lin Jiang quickly shouted. Hey, there''s a good opportunity,e on, give it a try.

    "You guys..."

    The people around Jin Man instantly let go, but Jin Man was confused. Why didn''t you stop me? Howe you''re not stopping me?

    Why are you called the useless Golden family? Because in your five generations, not a single talented person has appeared. I won''t even mention Nascent Soul, Dan, Talisman, Device, Array, Spiritual Farmer, Puppet Technique, or Immortal Cultivation. Have you produced a master in your five generations?

    You all lie on your past aplishments, form factions and indulge in corrupt practices in the Internal Affairs Hall, embezzling and amassing spiritual stones for extravagant desires, keeping singing girls and servants. What qualifications do you have topare with others?

    He Lianshan, let me ask you, how many hours do you sleep each day since the Building Foundation stage?

    "Senior, less than two hours, sometimes only two hours of sleep every three to five days."

    "What are you doing?"

    "During the day, I work in Internal Affairs Hall, and at night, I practice and learn formations. My junior brother is a second-level Formation Master."

    "Do you have a wife and concubines? Is there a singer in your house? Do you drink and make merry every day?"

    "My junior brother only has one wife, no concubines, no singing maidens or servants, and he doesn''t like drinking."

    "Did you hear that? This is the confidence thates from surpassing your family''s five generations in just twenty years, Jin Man. I ask you, how many hours do you practice every day? How much have you done for the sect? What skills do you have to show?"

    Lin Jiang turned around and said to Jin Man, but Jin Man was tongue-tied and couldn''t say a word.

    Brothers and sisters, many of you here probablye from backgrounds without any support. You were either ordinary people before or disciples at the bottom of the sect. But now, you have surpassed the achievements of your ancestors.

    But please remember, your achievements are the result of your hard work and the changes the sect made under our master, Zhang Wanjing. In the past, every sect hall was filled with people like Jin Man. Would you have had this opportunity if you had worked your fingers to the bone?

    Now, Jin Man has returned, and his father, Jin Yu, has alsoe back. If they want you to live like you did before, would you agree? Would you ept it? Are you willing to bow down?

    Lin Jiang looked at everyone and continued speaking. Yu Wanke and the others immediately looked shocked. What is Lin Jiang going to do? Are they going to fight against Jin Yu and the others?

    "I don''t want to."

    He Lianshan said quietly.

    "Speak louder, I can''t hear you."

    "I don''t want to, senior brother."

    "Why don''t you want to?"

    "The position of steward is something I worked hard for the sect. I have been in the Internal Affairs Hall for sixty years, forty years as an executive. I did all the work and they took all the credit. I refuse to ept it. Now that I''vee up here, I won''t go back."

    "Well said. What about you? What about all of you?"

    Lin Jiang pointed at the others in the Internal Affairs Hall.

    "I don''t want to either."

    "I don''t want to either."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    The emotions of everyone in the room were stirred up, shouting in excitement. They didn''t want it, they didn''t want to live as second-ss citizens anymore.

    "You, youбдбдбдбд"

    Jin Man looked around in shock, and the looks of the crowd changed. There was no more fear, only hatred.

    "Get out, if you don''t leave, I''ll kill you."

    Lin Jiang shouted angrily at Jin Man. If he instigated anything else, Jin Man would have to face the consequences today.

    Jin Man ran away, rolling and crawling.

    "Brothers and sisters, don''t worry, do your best with your work. The sect won''t lose because of you, and Uncle Zhang WanjingMartial won''t let you down. No one can take away your positions and achievements unless you make mistakes yourselves."

    Lin Jiang continued speaking to everyone, and after finishing, he looked into the distance.

    In the distance, Jin Yu and hispanions watched all of this coldly.

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188

    Five Elements Sect, Zhang Shuhua''s residence

    Wei Yunshen and about ten other golden core cultivators gathered together, including Lin Jiang. Ever since Zhang Shuhua reached the Foundation Building stage, Lin Jiang had gathered these people in Zhang Shuhua''s name. Among them, some were Zhang Wanjing''s old friends, like Wei Yunshen and the other two, whom they had known for many years. The others were intentionally getting closer after Zhang Wanjing advanced to the Nascent Soul stage.

    Through gatherings and discussions, they formed an alliance based on mutual interests and cooperation.

    "I heard about what Junior Brother Xiao did in the Internal Affairs Hall a few days ago. It was impressive!"

    "I heard that Jin Yu is near the Internal Affairs Hall. I heard everything clearly, but I''m not sure about his expression. It must have been exciting!"

    "After this incident, Jin Yu realized that he had no chance of getting his position back unless he surpasses Nascent Soul."

    "Jin Yu is almost five hundred years old. He looks young because he takes longevity treasures and Appearance Fixing Pills. But in reality, his vitality is declining rapidly. He doesn''t have a chance to surpass Nascent Soul."

    Everyone is discussing the events of the past few days. Here, Lin Jiang and their status are equal. Everyone believes that it''s not difficult for Lin Jiang to reach the Foundation Establishment stage.

    "Junior brother, this time we vented our frustrations, but we also made too many enemies. It''s not good."Zhang Shuhua said. I also hate Jin Yu and his group, but we have to admit that their background in the Five Elements Sect is strong. They have many Nascent Soul elders, while Zhang Wanjing is alone.

    "Senior brother, there''s nothing wrong with that. I want to make enemies. Without enemies, how can we unite more people? Then our interests will be even more different. It''s better to fight for even a tiny benefit than to avoid conflict altogether. Isn''t that better?"

    "Um..."

    "Senior brother, you need to change your mindset. Don''t be like our master. We need people to help us. Nascent Soul and Golden Core are important, but so are Building Foundation and Qi Refining. The more people, the better."

    Lin Jiang exined that Jin Yu willingly made himself a target, so he shouldn''t me Lin Jiang for it.

    The rest of the people listened and thought it made a lot of sense. If they were in the sect, they would be the dominant ones, but then they would definitely fight amongst themselves. It''s good to have external pressure now, at least this way they won''t easily fight each other. Instead, they will join forces to fight against Jin Yu and his group.

    "Junior brother, I don''t mean anything else, it''s just that, I feel a bit, you know..."

    "Unjust."

    "I guess so."

    Senior brother, when have I ever said that what we do is just, even with Master''s reforms? I always emphasize the distribution of benefits. There is fundamentally no difference between us and Jin Yu''s group. The only difference is our methods.

    Jin Yu and his group have be ustomed to enjoying themselves and not giving hope to those beneath them. But we will give hope, and still make money. That''s how the rules of the world work, revolving around interests.

    It will be the same in the future. We have never said we would give opportunities to everyone at the bottom, but we will always give an opening. As long as we can do this, there will be fewer people opposing uspared to those opposing Jin Yu. That''s all.

    We must set aside our pride and moral issues. If we don''t even have these tactics, how will wepete with fate? This is cultivation, not child''s y."

    Lin Jiang said seriously, justice and morals are only for the lower ss. Once you reach a certain level, it''s a bit ridiculous to still talk about these things.

    Lin Jiang never thought of himself as a good person, even though he sometimes did bad things. But deep down, his heart was a little dark.

    Zhang Shuhua looked at Wei Yunshen and the others, who all had expressions of agreement. Zhang Shuhua sighed, knowing that Lin Jiang had always been helping him be Zhang Wanjing''s representative, the leader among these people. But he also understood that he couldn''t do it.

    In terms of cultivation, Lin Jiang was superior to everyone in terms of methods, strategy, eloquence, and ruthlessness.

    "When Junior Brother Xiao achieves pill formation, I will step back and focus on my cultivation."

    Zhang Shuhua thought to himself, he really couldn''t handle thisplicated situation. The power struggle, scheming, and plots were not his strong suit.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    In the blink of an eye, another year passed. Lin Jiang received the Spirit Integrating Pill and a fourth-order Demon Core from the Lin family. But he still owed money for the Demon Core. It couldn''t be paid all at once, it had to be done gradually.

    The Five Elements Sect was the sect with the most spiritual medicine in the Yun State. Lin Jiang nned to help the Lin family in the aspect of medicinal herbs, which wouldn''t vite the sect''s rules.

    For example, high-level spiritual medicine. The Five Elements Sect often sold seeds or seedlings at a discounted price or even gave them away for free. Why could the Five Elements Sect do this? Because regr forces or independent cultivators spent hundreds or even thousands of years cultivating the medicine, but they didn''t have the means to refine it.

    In the end, they either sold the medicines or asked the Alchemist from the main sect to help. The main sect would make the most profit, so they didn''t lose anything.

    If it weren''t for Li Ruoxu causing trouble in Yun State, the three sects could earn countless spirit stones using this method. But Li Ruoxu is cunning, he knows the bottom line of the three sects and never crosses it. Otherwise, they would have killed him long ago.

    After obtaining the treasure, Lin Jiang quietly left the sect before officially entering seclusion. He contacted Lin Die and handed over the Small Shadiao and the fourth-order Demon Core, asking her to take care of them, especially if the Small Shadiao sessfully advanced and needed to undergo tribtion. It was inconvenient for Lin Jiang to stay in the sect.

    Lin Die agreed and fed the fourth-order Demon Core to the Small Shadiao. As a result, the Small Shadiao fell into a deep sleep, and Lin Die didn''t need to worry. At most, she would help during its tribtion.

    After making sufficient preparations, Lin Jiang entered seclusion at Zhang Wanjing''s cave. By breaking through here, Lin Jiang could save money by not using the Spirit Gathering Formation to gather spiritual energy. However, during this time, Zhang Wanjing wouldn''t be able to cultivate because if he did, he would have topete with Lin Jiang for spiritual energy, which would be deadly for Lin Jiang.

    "From Qi Refining to Building Foundation, itpresses the spiritual energy from a gaseous state to liquid. From Building Foundation to Golden Core, itpresses the spiritual energy from a liquid state to solid. The most difficult moment is the transformation of liquid spiritual energy, which is very mysterious, and everyone''s situation is different."

    Sitting in the quiet room, Lin Jiang recalled the key points of Foundation Building. There were plenty of cultivation experiences from predecessors in the sect, and he had read them many times.

    However, everyone''s situation is different, so it cannot be blindly followed. It still needs to bebined with one''s own circumstances.

    After careful recollection, Lin Jiang began to break through. He had already reached the peak of the Building Foundation stage for many years, and the spiritual energy in his body had be extremely viscous, like rice porridge. It couldn''t grow any further, so if he continued to cultivate, it would solidify.

    "First, use the Pill of Spirit Integration. If it fails, you can try again. Finally, use the Pill of Five Elements Golden Fruit."

    Lin Jiang made a decision. The Pill of Spirit Integration is very magical, and the Pill of Five Elements Golden Fruit is a precious item for condensing the inner energy, but they are different from each other. The Pill of Five Elements Golden Fruit is more suitable for him, but he doesn''t dare to take it hastily. He will use the Pill of Spirit Integration to explore the path first.

    After taking the medicine, following the previous experiences of others, Lin Jiang began seclusion.

    "Puff"

    Half a yearter, Lin Jiang coughed up blood, looking weak and defeated at the critical moment.

    Crawling out of the quiet room with great difficulty, Zhang Wanjing had already sensed it and was waiting at the door.

    "Are you okay, Xiao Yi?"

    "I didn''t injure my main energy channel. Give me some time to recover."

    "Don''t be too hasty."

    "No, I have to rush up in one breath."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, took out a healing pill and swallowed it. Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, he bought many healing pills, ranging from fifth to sixth grade. He prepared them specifically for this moment. Previously, he also took high-grade pills to protect his meridians. Otherwise, he would have been severely injured like Zhang Shuhua, and it would have taken a long time to recover.

    One yearter, Lin Jiang closed himself off again, still taking the Spirit Integrating Pill, because he still wasn''t confident.

    "Why can''t I save some spirit stones?"

    Another eight months passed, and Lin Jiang cursed loudly while lying on the ground. If he used one less pill, he could have saved two million spirit stones. But he still failed.

    Crawling out of the quiet room, Zhang Wanjing was still waiting for him. This time, Zhang Wanjing didn''t waste words and directly stuffed a pill into Lin Jiang''s mouth.

    "Master, how did you know that I still had pill for forming a core?"

    "Guessed."

    "Master is incredibly wise, I admire you."

    "You still look full of energy, definitely won''t die."

    "Poor people rely on mutations, rich people rely on spending money. Does Master know how many spirit stones I spent?"

    "What is spending money?"

    "Just spending money."

    "That''s almost right. You''re quite wealthy, even wealthier than me. I''ve collected your dividends for the past two years."

    "Oh my gosh, Master, how could you do this?"

    Lin Jiang was shocked, wanting to Pounce on Zhang Wanjing. The dividends from the past two years exceeded one million spirit stones.

    "Previously in Yunzhong City, I asked you how much you could earn in a year and you said four hundred thousand spirit stones. You lied to me. This is punishment."

    "Master, that money isn''t just for me. I have to share it. You took it all, which means I still have to pay out of my own pocket. Master, you can''t treat me like this."

    "That has nothing to do with me. You made so much money under my name, what''s wrong with me taking your share of profits for two years? I''m saving this money for Zhang Wenchen''s training. Even if it''s a red envelope from you, Martial Uncle, for Zhang Wenchen, you have been absent for these two years."

    "What kind of red envelope needs a million spirit stones? No, I can''t bear it. Let me take a break."

    Lin Jiang wanted to cry but had no tears. Zhang Wanjing''s attack hurt him more than his failed breakthrough. He couldn''t take it anymore.

    Zhang Wanjingughed loudly. He didn''t feel any pain. After knowing Lin Jiang''s exact ie, he had been angry for a long time. This little disciple of his made so much money but didn''t show any respect to his master. He deserved to be punished.

    After another year of recuperation, Lin Jiang walked into the quiet room once again.

    "If I don''t make a breakthrough this time, I will have to leave."

    Lin Jiang gritted his teeth. Although he publicly imed to be in his early 100s, Zhang Wanjing knew about his rtionship with the Lin family and knew that Lin Jiang had already built his foundation before joining the Five Elements Sect. Based on Lin Jiang''s talent evaluation, Lin Jiang felt like he appeared to be around 170-180 years old in Zhang Wanjing''s eyes.

    If he failed this time, he would have to leave the Five Elements Sect. Otherwise, he wouldn''t be able to keep the secret of immortality. This secret was something he had to keep forever.

 Chapter 189

    Chapter 189

    Five Elements Sect, the mountain gate.

    Zhang Wanjing returned to his cave dwelling and found that his family had prepared a meal. Zhang Shuhua''s wife had given birth to their second child, who needed to eat every day. Zhang Wanjing also resumed the habit of eating every day, as before he used to practice fasting in the Nascent Soul stage, and wouldn''t starve even if he didn''t eat or drink.

    "Has Wen Chen also returned?"

    When Zhang Wanjing saw his grandsone out of the room, he asked. Zhang Wenchen was already fourteen years old. Two years ago, his Spiritual Root was detected and he was sent to Shanxue School for cultivation. He wasn''t usually at home.

    "Grandpa, I didn''te back because I waszy. Grandma asked me toe back."

    "Alright, I''m not ming you. Sit down and eat."

    Zhang Wanjing nodded. He was a serious person, and Zhang Wenchen was very afraid of him, even more afraid than of Zhang Shuhua.

    "Thank you, grandpa."

    "What have you been learning at Shanxue Schooltely?""The master taught me a small formation knowledge and I got an excellent grade."

    "That''s good. We can learn more about formations. The formations in our Five Elements Sect are weak. Since the previous generation''s formation master passed away, no one has been able to break through to the sixth level Formation Master."

    "Dad, the formations taught by Shanxue School are just basic. They don''t even count as a first-level Formation Master. They don''t teach how to be a Formation Master at all."

    Zhang Shuhua said. Shanxue School teaches knowledge about pills, talismans, items, and formations, but it''s just superficial. They don''t go in-depth. It''s allmon knowledge. You''re already a sixth-level Formation Master. Could you have achieved it earlier?

    "It''s a good thing to keep him interested. Even a sixth-level Formation Masteres from ordinary people. It''s not a problem."

    "What you say is what it is."

    "Let''s eat, let''s eat. We shouldn''t talk about these things during a meal at home."

    Mrs. Zhang gave Zhang Wanjing a stern look. We rarely gather together to eat. Why are you talking about these things? You can talk about them in the sect.

    Zhang Wanjing instantly became quiet and stopped talking. After finishing the meal, Zhang Shuhua''s wife started to wash the dishes. Zhang Wanjing''s family didn''t have any servants, as Zhang Wanjing didn''t like them. The Zhang family also refused the sect''s arrangement of servants. Otherwise, with the privilege of Nascent Soul, they could have a certain number of servants, and the sect would cover the expenses.

    Zhang Wanjing made a pot of tea and walked into the study. Zhang Shuhua followed him. As a high-ranking member, Zhang Wanjing always had lots of work to do.

    "Today, ck Clothes Hall dealt with Zou Yu''s nephew, did you know?"

    "Yes, Dad helped out, otherwise Zou Yu''s nephew would have been expelled from the sect."

    "You''ve been doing a lousy job these past two years. You don''t have the skills of your junior brother."

    Zhang Wanjing expressed his dissatisfaction, saying that when Lin Jiang was around, he would discipline Wei Yunshen and Zou Yu for their behavior, but Zhang Shuhua couldn''t do that.

    "Dad, my junior brother and their involvement is too deep. I can''t ept it."

    "There''s nothing you can''t ept, you just haven''t put enough thought into this matter."

    "Yes, Dad, I know I was wrong."

    "Never mind, your junior brother will soon finish his seclusion. We''ll let him deal with it then."

    "The child wants to try again."

    "Stop trying, you''re not cut out for it. Focus on your cultivation, there are many people eyeing my Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. If the fruit matures and you haven''t reached the golden core stage, I won''t be able to keep it for you."

    Zhang Wanjing said, he had to admit that Lin Jiang had gathered a group of people around him through a series of deals. These past few years, Zhang Wanjing''s work had been smooth, whatever he did, he had people helping him, and they held high positions with great power.

    This waspletely different from when he was at the golden core stage. At that time, he only had a few followers and had to take charge of everything himself, often ending up unsessful.

    Among this group of people, there were many talented individuals, not only in their capabilities but also in their cultivation. One of the reasons the golden core cultivators were so obedient was because Zhang Wanjing had Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, which could assist them in advancing to the Nascent Soul stage.

    However, there were only four Purple Origin Taoist Fruits left, and they weren''t enough. They would have to be treated differently. Although Zhang Wanjing was strict with his son, it wasn''t because he didn''t care. He wanted to leave one for Zhang Shuhua, just to show some affection.

    "Yes, father."

    Zhang Shuhua nodded, not arguing. These past two years had indeed been mentally exhausting, dealing with all sorts of cunning people was too difficult.

    Zhang Wanjing was about to say something when suddenly a surge of spiritual pressure came over. Zhang Wanjing''s face immediately lit up and he said. Your junior brother has made a breakthrough.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Ah..."

    With a long howl, Lin Jiang jumped three meters high and all his frustrations disappeared.

    "After four and a half years, using three valuable pills, I finally made it."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly. With the experiences from the previous two failed attempts, he was finally sessful on his third pill formation. Now he was a proud and aplished Golden Core Elder.

    "It took half of my life and cost millions of spirit stones. It''s really not easy. I should celebrate for three days at the Pce Banquet in Medicine City."

    Once again, Lin Jiang sighed. The three pill formations alone cost about six million spirit stones. Not to mention the healing and auxiliary pills. In total, it was easily seven or eight million. Normal people wouldn''t be able to afford it.

    "Before, I earned money by studying and winning schrships. Now, I earn money by making pills with my talent for the sect. Why don''t I have such luck?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head in envy of those geniuses. Their pill sects provide pills for free, they don''t need to spend any money. It''s truly unfair.

    After two days of consolidation, Lin Jiang finally came out, and Zhang Wanjing and the others were waiting for him.

    "Junior brother, you finally came out."

    "After enduring countless hardships, it''s finally not in vain."

    Lin Jiangughed heartily, feeling happy in his heart.

    "Good, good."

    "Senior brother, is this your second child?"

    Lin Jiang saw the child that Zhang Shuhua was holding in his arms, estimated to be around one or two years old. He had just finished his training, and Zhang Shuhua already had a second child.

    "Call me Uncle."

    "Uncle."

    "Hey, little one, what''s your name? Your voice sounds so beautiful."

    "Zhang Wenxin"

    "Not bad, quite cultured."

    Lin Jiang really wanted to roll his eyes. The name was so uncultured. If he were to go to kindergarten, there would surely be many with the same name. It''s no different from names like Kexin or Xinyi.

    "My dad named me, it must be cultured."

    "Haha, exactly, Master is cultured."

    Lin Jiang awkwardly smiled. Zhang Wanjing must have seen his little action.

    Zhang Shuhua arranged a table full of food to celebrate Lin Jiang. The master and disciples raised a few cups and Zhang Shuhua started talking about what happened during Lin Jiang''s seclusion these years.

    "What''s been going on with you these years? Didn''t I teach you how to bnce them?"

    Lin Jiang didn''t like it when he heard this. Before secluding himself, he had specially taught Zhang Shuhua. When they gathered together, there were two key points: Zhang Wanjing''s background and their interests, which referred to the business that Lin Jiang encouraged. If they focused on these two points, they wouldn''t hesitate to listen.

    "Xiao Yi, don''t me him. Shuhua is too kind-hearted towards our own people and can''t bring himself to act. This matter still needs you."

    "Master, don''t worry. When these people be arrogant due to their sess, I''ll make them realize who provides them with food and grants them the opportunity to seed."

    "Alright, you handle it."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The people around him had indeed be somewhat extravagant in recent years. He didn''t care how they spent their money or enjoyed themselves. At most, he considered it a bit shy. But if they undermined his foundation, Lin Jiang couldn''t help but get angry.

    They needed to let them know why the flowers were so red and show them the skills of Uncle Lin.

    "Let''s not talk about that. Today is a joyful day for you toe out of seclusion. Let''s drink."

    "Yes, you''re right. Today is a happy day. Let''s not ruin it by discussing that. Brother, can you help me invite those senior brothers from the Golden Core stage toe and have a drink? I''ll treat them."

    Lin Jiang nodded, today we won''t talk about this, so as not to dampen his excitement. Hurry up and finish drinking, after finishing the drink he still wants to go to Pce Banquet to celebrate for himself. It''s not eptable to not go to Pce Banquet for such a big happy event.

 Chapter 190

    Chapter 190

    Outside Anhua City, there is the Lin Family gate.

    The Lin Family gate is not located inside the city, but on a spiritual mountain outside the city. Young, young and old Lin Family members are all here, only the strong and able will go to different ces for tasks.

    Lin Batian, who has been missing for nearly ten years, has returned again, apanied by Lin Ying who has been stationed in Wilderness for many years.

    "I just saw the Aurora falcon, it was sent by Sixth Brother''s family, right?"

    "Yes, Lin Wu made a breakthrough in the golden core a few years ago, and Small Shadiao was also about to break through to the fourth rank, so it was sent here. But unfortunately, Small Shadiao failed to make the breakthrough."

    Lin Die nodded, Small Shadiao''s breakthrough failed, and he is still at the peak of the third rank. He was beaten up by Big Shadiao Lin Yu several times, and the whole bird life became depressed.

    "It''s a pity, if he had made the breakthrough, we would have had an extra helper."

    "Dad, is the great disaster about to begin?"

    "Well, how are the things you''ve been preparing?""I''m good here. I''ve almost handled everything in the family''s special mountain, mines, properties in Anhua City, and shops. We either sold them or mortgaged them to our allies. We''ve converted all the spiritual stones into resources. But it seems like our actions have been discovered by the three sects."

    Lin Die said that during the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, her excessive shopping had already raised suspicions. The three sects have already found out.

    "We can''t hide it from them, but it doesn''t matter. The Soul Changing members of the three sects have secretly returned."

    "That''s good. We can enlist their help when the timees. Maybe we still have a chance to win."

    "We can''t win. Yun State is too remote and our power is too weak."

    "The three sects probably have two or three Soul Changing members each. If we add you, can''t ten Soul Changing members defeat them?"

    "You''ll find out when the timees."

    "Dad, it''s already this time, can you finally tell us the truth?"

    "Don''t bother me. It''s not beneficial for you to know. Just follow my n. How are things going on your end, Lin Ying?"

    "Everything is in order. Wilderness has built three secret bases, enough to deceive others."

    Lin Ying said. Anhua City''s base in Wilderness is not big because they didn''t put much effort into it. She focused her energy on the secret bases.

    "No, the bases in Wilderness are meant to attract targets. Lin Ying is sending the second batch of people in."

    "Dad, this..."

    "Do as I say."

    "Dad, is there really no way to protect the Lin family? Are we really going to abandon so many people?"

    "It''s destiny. They will eventually find me. It''s better to lure them out and surprise them, rather than being caught off guardter. We''ll kill as many as we can. The descendants of the Lin family are bound to carry this fate from birth. I had no choice, and neither did they. me it on fate. They were destined to be born into my Lin family."

    Lin Batian said coldly, and Lin Die and Lin Ying shivered. At this moment, Lin Batian was too heartless and cruel.

    "Father..."

    "Don''t be afraid, father won''t die, and you will be fine. Third and tenth, each take a group of people and hide ording to the locations I mentioned. Don''te back, don''t act impulsively, focus on developing your strength, and then we''ll see."

    "What about the others?"

    Lin Die asked, Lin Batian divided all the members of the Lin family into several groups based on age, talent, personality, and more. The younger and more talented groups were given more protective measures.

    "Take care of yourselves."

    Lin Batian sighed deeply, he also wanted to save the Lin family, but his abilities were ultimately limited.

    Lin Die and Lin Ying exchanged nces, both feeling immense pain in their hearts. These were all their nieces and nephews, and they couldn''t bring themselves to sacrifice them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Five Elements Sect, Mountain Gate

    Lin Jiang returned to ck Clothes Hall with a gloomy face, and when the others saw his expression, they didn''t dare toe and disturb him.

    "Junior Brother"

    After a long time, Zhang Shuhua walked in.

    "What''s wrong, Senior Brother?"

    "My father wants to see you, at the cave residence."

    "Alright, I understand. I''ll go there now."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then left ck Clothes Hall, heading to Zhang Wanjing''s cave residence.

    "Master, why did you summon me?"

    "How long have you not returned to the Lin family?"

    "It''s been a long time, what''s wrong?"

    "Something unusual is happening at the Lin family, things don''t seem right."

    Zhang Wanjing said, and as soon as Lin Jiang heard it, his face grew darker.

    "It seems like you''ve noticed something, is there something you''re hiding from our master?"

    "I just returned from Medicine City."

    "And then?"

    "The Lin family''s base in Medicine City has been discontinued."

    Lin Jiang said, Medicine City is currently the secondrgest city in Yun State, and also thergest hub for spiritual medicine. It is a ce where all Yun State forces, if they have the means, would arrange a base in Medicine City. The fact that the Lin family discontinued their base there clearly indicates that something went wrong, or is about to.

    In addition, there is another bad news. Small Shadiao failed to break through the fourth stage. The Lin family entrusted the Spirit Beast Bag to the City Lord''s residence in Medicine City. Lin Jiang has already taken back Small Shadiao. Butpared to the unusual news from the Lin family, this is nothing. His mood is really bad.

    "I know about this. It was canceled half a month ago. I can also tell you that the Lin family has sold everything they can sell."

    "What does that mean?"

    The Lin family has sold theirnd, the spiritual mountains, minerals, shops in Anhua City, and even their stronghold in the wilderness. They did this secretly, and we just found out not long ago. Additionally, many important members of the Lin family have not appeared in the past six months. They im to either be in seclusion or traveling.

    Anyway, the Lin family''s behavior is very unusual. The sect is worried and has decided to investigate the Lin family.

    "How could this happen? Why did this happen?"

    "Don''t ask me, I don''t know. You are a descendant of the Lin family, do you know any news?"

    "Lin Die once told me that there would be a great disaster in the Lin family. She told me not to return to the Lin family, not to acknowledge my connection with them. But that was decades ago, and I thought everything was fine."

    Lin Jiang said that Lin Die had already told him before. The Lin family was going to face a great disaster. But it has been decades, and he thought everything was fine.

    "It seems that the Lin family''s trouble was caused by people, not a natural disaster. Lin Batian has been preparing for decades, those people from the Lin family should have run away."

    "Master, I feel a little anxious."

    "Why are you anxious? You are a disciple of the Five Elements Sect, not a Lin family member."

    "Family blood is something that cannot be abandoned."

    "That''s true. How about this, I''ll send you to investigate the Lin family, you can bring people with you."

    "I can go alone."

    Lin Jiang gave Zhang Wanjing a grateful look, he insisted on personally investigating to feel at ease.

    "Alright, you can go alone then. Xiao Yi, remember, yourst name is Xiao and your name is Xiao Yi. You are a golden core disciple of the Five Elements Sect, and I am Zhang Wanjing''s personal disciple, understand?"

    "I understand, Master."

    Lin Jiang nodded, Zhang Wanjing reminded him that Lin Jiang had support from a whole sect and his Nascent Soul master.

    There was no time to lose, so Lin Jiang quickly left the Five Elements Sect and rushed to the outskirts of Anhua City. After disguising himself, he entered the city in secret.

    Anhua City appeared unchanged, and Lin Jiang spent the whole day there without noticing any difference in the people. Afterwards, he entered the Five Elements Sect''s store in Anhua City.

    Just like the Picking Stars Tower of Zhonghang Sect and the Duobao Pavilion of Cloud Sword Sect, the Five Elements Sect also had its own store, spread throughout cities of all sizes in Yun State.

    "Senior brother, I have received an order from the sect. I have already sent back the valuable items from the store, but we still need to stay here and guard."

    "What about the Picking Stars Tower and Duobao Pavilion?"

    "The same, they have been notified."

    "Did the sect say anything else?"

    "No, we are to follow the orders."

    "What changes have taken ce in the businesses of other factions and independent cultivators in the city?"

    "Everything is normal, senior brother. Has something happened?"

    "No, just focus on your tasks."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, it seemed that the Lin family had a well-thought-out n. After decades of nning, apart from the three dominant sects, there was nothing out of the ordinary.

    Lin Jiang quietly left Anhua City and took a stroll outside the Lin family''s main gate. Apart from a few individuals with golden cores, he didn''t sense the presence of Lin Die and Lin Ying.

    "Only three golden cores in total, and they''re so old. Something seems off."

    Lin Jiang felt even more burdened. The Lin family had over twenty golden cores, but he only saw three of them.

    Lin Jiang continued lurking outside the Lin family''s main gate. After a few days, several golden core ancestors suddenly appeared. Lin Jiang''s eyes widened in surprise.

    "Lin family''s golden coreг┐"

    Lin Jiang was filled with questions, as Lin Family''s golden core had appeared again?

    Lin Jiang was both shocked and uncertain. He decided to continue observing and chose one of them to secretly monitor. After three days, Lin Jiang confirmed that these people were imposters.

    Lin Jiang''s disguise skill was very clever, but these people were even more skilled. From their appearance, there was no sign of any ws. However, after following them for three days, Lin Jiang noticed they were clearly unfamiliar with many things that should bemon knowledge for them.

    "Where did Lin Batian find so many experts to fake as Lin Family''s golden core?"

    Lin Jiang''s doubts resurfaced. The situation with Lin Family was now full of inconsistencies, and he couldn''t understand the logic behind it.

 Chapter 191

    Chapter 191

    Yun State, Southwest, Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi

    Lin Jiang had been hiding in the clouds above the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi for a day. The Lin family''s Golden Core disciples were numerous, so he didn''t dare to get too close. He chose to return to the old grounds of the Lin family to have a look.

    "Mother, Lin Ying, I''m back."

    Lin Jiang looked at the Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, feeling a nostalgic ache in his nose. He had spent several decades here, and it held many beautiful memories for him. Though the scenery remained unchanged, the people he knew were no longer there.

    Thoughts surged like a tidal wave, and Lin Jiang couldn''t hold back any longer. He quietly descended from the clouds and found himself in the peach forest outside the vi.

    It was the season of full bloom for the peach blossoms. Lin Jiang plucked a peach blossom and brought it to his nose, taking a deep sniff and relishing the fragrance.

    "Excuse me, Taoist friend, may I ask why you''ve appeared in our Lin family''s territory?"

    Soon, an old man appeared behind Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang had noticed him long ago but pretended not to.

    "This taoist friend was polite. I am Zhang Shuhua, a humble independent cultivator. I once knew a taoist friend from this Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi. He promised to treat me to Peach Blossom Brew, but the agreed time has passed and he didn''t show up. So I came to investigate.""Who are you talking about?"

    "That taoist friend only mentioned the surname Lin, but didn''t tell me his real name. We were just like-minded individuals and not really close friends. I just thought he had a good personality, so I wanted to have a reunion with an old friend."

    "Then I don''t know who you are talking about. I am the owner of this estate, Tenth Ancestor, but I have been away for a long time. I came here to retire."

    "I don''t know how to address the taoist friend."

    "Cunyi Lin, the sixth generation of the Lin family."

    "The sixth generation, huh?"

    Lin Jiang sighed. All the sixth generation of the Lin family have aged so much.

    "My Lin family is full of talented people. As an old man, I wasted too much time in my youth, indulging in pleasures, which is a shame for the family. That''s why I came here to guard the ancestral home of the Lin family. There aren''t many people left."

    "The Taoist friend seemed very bored."

    "Haha, everyone in the mountain vige is ordinary people, I am the only cultivator. Do you think there would be many people to talk to?"

    "Well, that''s true. Meeting each other is fate. I have some delicious food from Medicine City. Does the Taoist friend have any wine?"

    "Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi has plenty of wine, but it''s not considered good wine. Taoist friend, please don''t mind."

    Lin Cunyiughed heartily, not even expecting anyone toe. Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi didn''t have anything valuable except for the valuable ling peaches from this mountain, but the ling peaches were still in the peach blossom stage.

    "Alright, I''ll have a drink with you."

    Lin Jiang nodded and took out some food from his storage bag. The two of them found a big rock in the peach blossom forest to sit on, drinking and eating meat.

    Under Lin Jiang''s intentional questioning, Lin Cunyi talked about many things regarding the Lin family. Lin Jiang felt a mix of emotions while listening, but Lin Cunyi was only in the Qi Refining Period and wouldn''t reveal any Lin family secrets.

    This Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, it''s like my Tenth Ancestor''s beloved ce. It seems like her brother used to live here. Tenth Ancestor woulde back to visit when she had time. Taoist friend, do you see these peach blossoms? They were all rentedter by Tenth Ancestor herself. The previous ones died a long time ago.

    The vige at the foot of this mountain, just like a few hundred years ago, Tenth Ancestor forbids us from building random houses. Thest time someone built a vige, it was destroyed by Tenth Ancestor. He made them restore the ce or else he would kill them. And also...

    In the end, Lin Cunyi was already drunk and talking nonsense. Lin Jiang used magic to make him fall asleep, then used his spiritual power to send him to the vige at the foot of the mountain.

    Lin Jiang''s divine sense swept through, and he knew that the vige was unchanged from when he left. The fish pond and the pigsty where the Iron-backed Pigs were raised were still there. Lin Jiang became even moreplicated and mixed with emotions.

    Leaving Spiritual Peach Mountain Vi, Lin Jiang arrived at the ancestral home of the Lin family. About a hundred cultivators, mostly elders, lived in the ancestral home. The highest cultivation level was during the Building Foundation Period. Lin Jiang eavesdropped on their conversation, and some of the Building Foundation Period cultivators were in the same generation, like his great-grandchildren.

    "The generation of the Lin family isplicated."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. The youngest generation of the Lin family was already in the tens of generations, but their fourth and fifth generations still had many surviving descendants. They were still having children. How could this generation be in order? Anyway, he couldn''t tell anymore.

    A group of Building Foundation cultivators didn''t notice Lin Jiang. He arrived at the ancestral graveyard area, where there were over a dozen hills covered in tombstones, just like the cemetery Lin Jiang had once visited.

    "Even Big Sister is here."

    Lin Jiang saw the tombstone of Lin Batian''s legal wife, which was next to the graves of Lin Batian''s other wives. The graves were very extravagant.

    "Er Niang, San Niang, Wu Niang, Liu Niang, where is my mother?"

    But Lin Jiang searched around and couldn''t find his mother''s gravestone, which made him feel confused.

    "I buried these aunts with my own hands and have been taking care of their graves for many years. I wouldn''t remember it wrong."

    Lin Jiang tapped his head. It didn''t make sense for him to remember it wrong.

    "It was Lin Ying who moved the grave of my mother."

    Lin Jiang finally realized that the location couldn''t be wrong. The ancestral grave was maintained by someone, so it shouldn''t be covered by soil in just over two hundred years. That leaves only one reason: Lin Ying moved the grave.

    "Lin Ying, oh Lin Ying, one of my brother''s wishes has been ruined by you."

    "Forget it, forget it. Let these aunts have their way."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. Over the years, he had wanted toe back and pay respects many times but never dared to. Now that he finally made up his mind, the grave was gone.

    Lin Jiang took things out of the storage bag and ced various offerings in front of each aunt''s grave.

    "Auntie, I remember you liked the preserved fruits from Anhua City. I''m not sure if it''s the same brand, but I bought over ten different kinds. Feel free to eat them, no one will take them from you."

    "Second aunt, you always liked to cheat during mahjong games. I brought a few sets of mahjong for you. y more, but don''t team up with the third aunt to bully my mom. She''s not that smart, you never noticed when you cheated."

    "Third aunt, you liked the clothes from Zhang''s Tailor Shop in Anhua City. Surprise, surprise! The shop has been around for hundreds of years. Let me show my filial piety and bring you several sets of clothes. If you have a chance, remember to scold fifth brother, he''s not as filial as me."

    "Fifth aunt, in yourter years, you loved the braised pork I made. This time, I brought a pot just for you. I promise no one will take it from you, even my mom won''t allow her to. Enjoy it all by yourself."

    "Sixth aunt..."

    "Seventh aunt..."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang stayed at the ancestral grave for a while, reluctant to leave. No matter how beautiful the memories were, therees a day to return to reality.

    Three dayster, Lin Die descended from the sky andnded in front of the ancestral tomb. She went to the grave of Lin Batian''s legal wife and was surprised to see the offerings in front of the tombstone.

    Lin Die didn''t hide her presence and soon the older members of the Lin family''s ancestral home arrived.

    "I''ve met the Third Ancestor."

    "Did you all do these things?"

    Lin Die also noticed the offerings in front of other aunt''s graves and immediately asked them.

    "Um..."

    "It wasn''t you?"

    "No, it wasn''t us, Third Ancestor."

    "Has anyonee here recently?"

    "The Tenth Ancestor came a year ago, and no one hase since then."

    "Who could that be?"

    Lin Die was confused. She looked at the offerings and became more and more suspicious. Each offering in front of the tombstones of the aunts was something they liked when they were alive. Could it be Lin Ying?

    "Third Ancestorг┐"

    "Cough, cough. Get a few people toe and move the ancestral graves. Prepare them one by one."

    "Ah, the Third Ancestor, do we have to move all of them?"

    The Lin family was shocked. There were over a dozen hills, with at least tens of thousands of graves.

    Lin Die was also taken aback. She had heard from Lin Batian that Lin Ying had moved her mother''s grave and hade specifically for that. But with so many graves, where could they all be moved to at once?

    "Not all of them, just move all the tombs of these aunts of mine."

    Lin Die shook her head, it was impossible to move everything, so she could only take care of a few close people.

    "And also my big brother, second elder brother, and all those younger brothers and sisters."

    Then she added. Mother, aunt, siblings, that''s all I can manage.

    "Yes, Third Ancestor."

    The young descendants of the Lin family quickly took action, preparing new coffins and organizing the bones from the graves to put them back into the coffins.

    Lin Die put these coffins in a storage bag and prepared to leave. Before she left, she said. Your time is short, eat and drink well, don''t neglect yourselves.

    After saying that, Lin Die flew into the sky, leaving the elderly Lin family descendants looking at each other in surprise.

 Chapter 192

    Chapter 192

    Yun StateгмAnhua City

    Anhua City has been under the control of the Lin family for over a hundred years. The Lin family has put in a lot of effort to manage it and has made Anhua City prosper, showing a trend of catching up with Yunzhong City and Medicine City.

    Today''s morning is just like any other day. The city gates of Anhua City open, and the small forces outside the city, who have been waiting for a long time, line up one by one to enter the city. They bring arge amount of fresh vegetables, grains, meat, and more, for the people inside the city to consume.

    Many people inside the city are also leaving. Some are merchant groups who travel around, some are cultivators whoe to the city for sightseeing, and some are independent cultivators heading to the Wilderness for adventure.

    At this moment, the whole city is full of vitality, and the fragrant smell of humanity fills the air.

    "What is that?"

    Suddenly, a young member of the Lin family on the city wall of Anhua City exims, and the people behind him raise their heads together. They see a streak of crimson clouds swiftly rushing in from the distant horizon.

    "Uncle, what is that?"

    "A crimson cloud, rarely seen. Is it going to rain heavily?""Raines from dark clouds, you silly Sixth Brother."

    "I just said it casually, don''t call me Sixth Brother, I''m the eighth in line."

    A group of guards whispered to each other. Before they could finish their discussion, the city wall suddenly burst into thousands of colorful lights. These lights soared into the sky, intersected in mid-air, and then quickly descended, forming a semicircr shield that enveloped the entire Anhua City.

    "What''s going on?"

    "Why did the city defense formation activate?"

    "Are they enemies?"

    This change frightened everyone in the city, especially the young members of the Lin family. They were all extremely shocked. The Lin family had ruled over Anhua City for over a hundred years, and the city defense formation had never been fully activated. It was usually in a half-activated state and the shield was never visible.

    "Dear friends from Anhua City, I am Lin Batian, a Taoist. The Lin family is about to face a great cmity, and Anhua City is in grave danger. You must escape immediately."

    "Young members of the Lin family, flee quickly."

    Lin Batian''s figure appeared in the sky above Anhua City, and his next words brought a deathly silence to the entire city. Even the young members of the Lin family were dumbfounded.

    "Run quickly."

    The fastest to react were those independent cultivators who struggled for survival in the Wilderness. They hovered on the edge of life and death, danced on the edge of a knife, and were extremely sensitive to danger. As soon as Lin Batian finished speaking, they started rushing out of Anhua City. Sensing that the forbidden airspace formation in Anhua City had closed, they even flew directly.

    "Great catastrophe."

    "What catastrophe? Don''t joke around, Lin Family Leader."

    "I just emptied my house to buy itst year."

    "My son is still in there."

    "Mother, mother, where are you?"

    Seeing the independent cultivators fleeing madly, the residents of Anhua City were also dumbfounded. Next, there was an incredibly chaotic scene. Those independent cultivators were all alone, with their belongings stored in bags. They could leave at the drop of a hat. But there were still hundreds of thousands of permanent residents in the city. Aside from the destruction of their homes, what would happen to their families?

    Lin Batian blocked out those voices. Most of these people would suffer greatly, and he was the cause of it. However, he wouldn''t hesitate at all. If he could sacrifice the Lin family, let alone outsiders.

    "Landlord"

    "Landlord"

    One by one, the children of the Lin family floated up into the air, looking frightened as they bowed to Lin Batian.

    "No time for talking, don''t go home, run, run as far as you can, run immediately."

    "Landlord"

    "Get out, everyone who doesn''t want to die, get out."

    Lin Batian roared angrily, why were these foolish children still here, run quickly.

    Finally, someone flew away on a flying sword, one, two, five, ten, more and more went away, but there were still around a hundred people remaining by Lin Batian''s side.

    "Are you staying here to wait for death?"

    "Can''t the Lin family rules allow more than one person to face the enemy?"

    "Being a Lin family member in life, and even in death."

    "Family head, I''m getting older and can''t walk well anymore."

    "Family head, I am a Formation Master. If everyone leaves, who will manage the formations in Anhua City?"

    "Family head..."

    Everyone was presenting their reasons to stay, but Lin Batian felt a pang in his heart. Are these really his descendants? Are they truly his Lin family members?

    "Family head, we have arrived."

    Arge group of cultivators flew in from outside the city. These were members of the Lin family, and at their forefront were a dozen or so cultivators. However, most of them had already regained their appearances, and they were not Lin family descendants.

    "Steward Wu"

    "Chen steward"

    The Lin family was extremely astonished. The person who came turned out to be some of Lin Batian''s original stewards. Some of them even had the Lin surname, unrted to the Lin family.

    Later, the Lin family grew stronger. Their rtives also established their own families and became followers of the Lin family. By this time, they had be quite powerful, with some families even having several members at the golden core level.

    "Master, we have arrived."

    "You may also leave."

    "Over ten descendants remain, the others are free to go as they please. As for me, I am staying."

    "I have been with the master for over four hundred years, and I have no intention of leaving. It''s not amusing."

    "Good, good. It seems that I, Lin Batian, haven''t been too much of a failure in life. I have descendants and old friends by my side. I, Lin Batian, swear that if there are still days toe, I will protect and bless all of you, my descendants, for generations toe, allowing you to achieve sess and prosperity."

    "Many thanks, Xie Family''s leader."

    "Go back to your positions, they are almost here."

    Lin Batian nodded and then everyone scattered into the city, entering different points of the defensive formation in Anhua City.

    At the same time, the sky was getting closer and closer to a crimson cloud, and finally, the group saw huge airships, evenrger than thergest one in Yun State. The airships werevishly decorated, exuding a sense of wealth and luxury.

    "Being a showoff until death."

    Lin Batian sneered disdainfully, then soared into the sky. A violent aura gathered in his hands and transferred into his long spear. With a thrust, the tip of the spear pierced through the air, heading towards one of the airships.

    "Boom!"

    A sword flew out from the airship, colliding with Lin Batian''s spear. The shockwaves spread out, causing the mountains surrounding Anhua City to crumble, resembling the apocalypse.

    After one move, numerous figures flew out from the airships, floating in the air and forming an array. The number of people reached several hundred.

    "golden core"

    "All of them are golden core."

    "So many."

    The people of Anhua City were all stunned. The lowest level person who flew out turned out to be golden core. And it seems that there are still people inside the flying boat who haven''te out.

    "Why didn''t the remaining Lin family members escape?"

    Among the crowd, someone stepped forward and said to Lin Batian in a yful tone.

    "Come, take off your mask and let''s see which family''s little dog dare to speak to your uncle like that."

    "All you can do is talk."

    "You don''t even dare to show your face. Are you born from your mother having an affair?"

    "Haha, kill them all. No one from the Lin family, young or old, shall be spared."

    The person said coldly. Does clever talk really matter? After cremation, will there be just a mouth left?

    "Soul Changing Dharma Appearance"

    Lin Batian shouted loudly, and his body suddenly grew nearly a hundred timesrger. A monstrous giant appeared outside Anhua City.

    "Dead"

    Lin Batian''s spear grew sharp, and a terrifying aura instantly enveloped those people.

    "Don''t mind him, let''s attack and conquer this city, leaving no one behind."

    Suddenly, several giants appeared among the iing people. Not just one, but six, surrounding Lin Batian, using six Soul Changing.

    "Destroy the city"

    The rest of the people bypassed Lin Batian and his battlefield, arriving at the top of Anhua City. The first to take action were ten Nascent Soul cultivators, all attacking at once, causing the protective array to burst forth in a dazzling disy of colors.

    "Puff"

    The Formation Master who managed the formations in the city was instantly shaken out a mouthful of blood. Those with weaker cultivation even died from the impact.

    "Kill"

    A person flew out from the city and bravely attacked ten Nascent Soul cultivators. It was Steward Wu, the leader of the group of stewards who had been with Lin Batian the longest. When the Lin family was still weak, Steward Wu practically served as the caretaker for the entire family. At this moment, he was also a Nascent Soul cultivator.

    "Send two people to deal with him."

    Among the ten people, someone spoke up and two people immediately intercepted Steward Wu, while the rest continued their attack. Steward Wu''s frenzied attacks proved futile.

    "Boom"

    With the second move, Anhua City was breached.

    "Kill them all."

    The remaining eight Nascent Soul cultivators waved their hands, and more than half of the golden core cultivators rushed in, while the rest spread out around them. Anyone who managed to escape from Anhua City, regardless of whether they were from the Lin family or not, young or old, could not escape their ughter.

    "Lin family members, avenge your family with your lives, follow me and kill!"

    Lin family members and several subordinate families'' golden core cultivators rushed out. However, before the leader could make a move, the Nascent Soul cultivator above them pierced his body with a single sword strike.

    The bloody ughter began, flying swords swept through the city, blood flowed, and lives dissipated.

    "Ying..."

    "Be careful."

    Suddenly, a sharp cry resounded, and a figure darted through the eight people, causing a ssh of blood before appearing in front of everyone.

    "Who are you?"

    "I am Lin Die, the third daughter of the Lin family."

    Lin Die stood on top of Aurora Falcon, holding a flying sword, and looked at everyone with indifference.

    "Another leftover from the Lin family."

    "And you, my dear aunt."

    Just as the leader finished speaking, there was a loud explosion in the distance, followed by a giant arrow piercing through the air.

    "Boom!"

    The group joined forces to block the arrow, causing it to shatter and turn into twinkling starlight.

    "A precious treasure of the Lin family, the Sagittarius Bow."

    Someone eximed and turned to look at Lin Ying, who was standing in the distance, holding a silver giant bow.

    "Old Ten, why have you returned? Hurry, leave!"

    "Third Sister, even though you''re the oldest, you can''t take advantage of everything."

    "Acting foolishly."

    Lin Die became very angry, she couldn''t understand how Little Ten could also lose control.

    "The Lin sisters, just like the information, have all gathered."

    "There are still more than ten golden cores missing."

    "It''s okay, take your time in searching, it''s like hunting."

    "They were all killed."

    After exchanging opinions, the second generation of the Lin family appeared, which was good so they wouldn''t have to search one by one.

    "Descendants of the Lin family, followers of the Lin family, break through."

    This sentence is from a story book, please trante it into English: 1. Lin Die said in a low voice, then with a thought, she and Lin Yu instantly disappeared. In the next moment, Lin Die appeared by the side of many Nascent Soul cultivators and drew out her sword.

 Chapter 193

    Chapter 193

    Yun StateгмFive Elements Sect

    "Dong, dong, dong..."

    When the urgent sound of the bell rang at the entrance of the Five Elements Sect, everyone stopped what they were doing. Most people were just staring nkly, without any reaction.

    "Why are you just standing there? Everyone, be on high alert."

    It wasn''t until a Nascent Soul roared that most people reacted. They had been taught at Shanxue School that the bell of the Five Elements Sect never rang easily. Once it did, something huge was happening. And based on the changes in the bell''s sound, it had significant meaning.

    Chaos erupted at the entrance of the Five Elements Sect, with disciples running around aimlessly. Many of them collided with each other.

    "Withdraw the forbidden airspace formation."

    Someone shouted loudly, more and more people flew up, including Lin Jiang. He rushed to ck Clothes Hall as soon as possible. ck Clothes Hall is located at the core of the inner gate, which should be the safest ce.

    Many peaks of the Five Elements Sect were shining brightly, and these lights gathered together and formed a shield, covering the entire gate of the Five Elements Sect."Please don''t panic, my disciples. I am the Sect Master Qin Quan. Now listen to mymand. All golden core disciples, gather the Building foundation and Qi Refining disciples around you and return to the sect''s buildings.

    Formation Masters and all disciples of the sect, enter the central hub and nodes of the gate formation. Disciples of the Law Enforcement Hall, send out patrol teams. Those who dare to cause trouble during the chaos will be mercilessly killed..."

    Sect Master Qin Quan''s voice quickly spread throughout the gate. With his guidance, the disciples of the Five Elements Sect began to calm down. one by one, golden core disciples appeared,forting everyone and bringing them together.

    At the same time, all Nascent Soul cultivators in the sect ascended into the air. One person took out a treasure mirror, which projected a scene of Anhua City within a light screen.

    "Lin Batian"

    "He has achieved Soul Changing."

    "Who are the six Soul Changing cultivators?"

    Everyone was amazed by the scenery of Anhua City. Lin Batian transformed into Soul Changing without saying a word, and to his surprise, he was being attacked by six other Soul Changing beings.

    "Greetings, Ancestor."

    With a cry of astonishment from Zhang Wanjing, everyone noticed that Shi Yuntang was now apanied by five additional individuals. Three of them were from the Five Elements Sect and were also Soul Changing, while the other two were Jiang Yunchong from the Cloud Sword Sect and Feng Zhang from the Zhonghang Sect, both of whom were Soul Changing Ancestors.

    "No need for formalities, let''s watch the battle."

    Shi Yuntang nodded at everyone and continued to watch the screen.

    "Lin Batian is fierce and formidable, fighting off six opponents without being defeated."

    "We can''t evene close to that. How did he do it?"

    "It''s no surpriseing from that family."

    "Is that girl Lin Batian''s daughter? She''s holding a Sagittarius Bow, isn''t she?"

    "Copy, but better than the best magical treasure. Very far, can''t see clearly, don''t know if it has reached a higher level."

    "There are still people in the flying boat, but we don''t know how many."

    Several powerful ancestors were discussing and amazed at Lin Batian''s strength. Just a few decades ago, he was only at the Nascent Soul stage, but in the blink of an eye, he advanced to Soul Changing. For others, advancing is as simple as eating and drinking. When they broke through to Soul Changing, it was like losing half their lives.

    "Senior brothers, what should we do?"

    "This is their business, not our concern."

    "But we have also seen that thing."

    "Um..."

    "Be prepared, Lin Batian is a cunning person."

    Shi Yuntang said, and then looked at Feng Zhang with resentment. If it weren''t for that jerk betraying him, he wouldn''t be in such a passive situation.

    Feng Zhang turned his face away and thought, Jiang Yunchong was the one who tricked him first. The three major sects are closely rted. It''s not fair that he got tricked. I won''t let you drag my Five Elements Sect down.

    Lin Batian and the others probably sensed that a few people were spying on them. In the next moment, he directly announced. Taoist friends from the Yun State''s three sects, we are all people from Yun State. Hurry up ande help.

    "Who said we are people from Yun State?"

    Jiang Yunchong, outspoken and quick-tempered, immediately shouted from a distance.

    "What did you say? I can''t hear you."

    Lin Batianughed loudly while slowly retreating and getting closer to the Five Elements Sect. With their speed, they could cover hundreds of miles in the blink of an eye.

    "Don''te any closer, Lin Batian, don''te."

    Shi Yuntang shouted loudly. The territory of the Five Elements Sect was extensive, even the surrounding areas were under their control. If he got closer, the Five Elements Sect would suffer heavy losses.

    "Shi Yuntang, help me already! I''m going to be beaten to death."

    Lin Batian was also getting anxious. It was six against one, and now he was covered in blood, not someone else''s blood, but his own.

    "It''s none of my business, my dear Taoist friends. Please continue."

    Shi Yuntang shouted loudly, and the distant flying boats all arrived. Who knows how many people are inside?

    "Alright, this is what you said. Don''t forget about that jade scroll. I''ll give it to you."

    "What are you talking about?"

    "Haha, you all know the biggest secret of the Lin family now, don''t run away."

    "Taoist friend, don''t listen to Lin Batian. We don''t know anything about a jade scroll."

    Upon hearing this, Shi Yuntang, Feng Zhang, and Jiang Yunchong all became frantic. That darn Lin Batian was truly plotting against them.

    However, a flying boat still arrived at the entrance of the Five Elements Sect, and another person who could change souls walked out, asking, "Have you seen the jade scroll?"

    "No, don''t say random things, Taoist friend."

    "Express the content of the jade scroll, or I will destroy your entire sect."

    The person who came spoke indifferently, and Shi Yuntang and the other members of the Five Elements Sect fell silent.

    "Speak."

    "Lin Batian is talking nonsense. How would I know what you want? If it''s really your treasure, Lin Batian would not easily show it to us. It''s obvious that he wants to drag us down. Taoist friend, don''t be misled by Lin Batian."

    Shi Yuntang said, facing the arrogant attitude of that person, he chose to remain patient.

    "Shi Yuntang, are you still a man? He threatened to kill your entire sect, and you still won''t act?"

    "Lin Batian, shut up. The Five Elements Sect only wants to protect itself, nothing else."

    Shi Yuntang became very angry. Is this bastard, Lin Batian, thinking that his luck is too good?

    "Feng Zhang and Jiang Yunchong also looked."

    Lin Batian felt that it wasn''t lively enough, so he added another sentence, and both of them immediately changed their expressions.

    With this news, even the neers couldn''t stay calm. Has the Lin family''s top secret be widely known?

    Soon, more people came to the flying boat, around ten of them in total. Not all of them were Soul Changing, only three of them. They faced off against Shi Yuntang and the others, and they weremunicating using mind transmission, apparently discussing something.

    "Qin Quan, follow the n and take action."

    Shi Yuntang immediately sent a message to Qin Quan. Qin Quan nodded firmly. Soon, countless clouds and mist surged out from the protective formation of the Five Elements Sect, quickly concealing the situation inside the sect''s entrance.

    "Junior disciples, the situation at the Five Elements Sect is bad. It might turn into a fight. Please immediately implement the Seed n. Each Nascent Soul cultivator should choose one person as a protector and go quickly."

    "Senior brother, what kind of force is this? They are so arrogant."

    "Don''t worry about the specific force. If the Soul Changing Ancestor can''t handle it, neither can we. You have fifteen minutes. Hurry up! I''ll be waiting at the main hall of the mountain gate."

    Qin Quan shook his head, he didn''t know what was going on either. But Soul Changing Ancestor was so nervous, he knew that Five Elements Sect might not be able to win, even if all three sects joined forces.

    The group of Nascent Soul quickly left. Zhang Wanjing also ended up in ck Clothes Hall. Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua, who were still confused, immediately approached. Their strength was too weak, they had no idea what was happening outside, they could only sense the terrifying spiritual energy fluctuations.

    "Master, is it the Lin family?"

    "Yes."

    "What should I do?"

    "There are already around ten Soul Changings outside, and dozens of Nascent Souls. Even if you go out, what can you do?"

    "I..."

    Lin Jiang felt a deep sense of powerlessness. He knew that the Lin family was facing a major crisis, but he was helpless.

    "No time for useless talk. In the face of a strong enemy, the sect has prepared a contingency n. They will send away the outstanding disciples. Each Nascent Soul disciple has a selected person. The golden core disciples will leave as Protectors. The two of you, who will go?"

    "Junior Brother, go."

    "Senior Brother, go."

    Lin Jiang and Zhang Shuhua spoke almost at the same time.

    "Father, let Junior Brother go. I owe him so much favor that I can never repay. If I continue to have this spot, I will never be able to live a proper life."

    "Master, I want to stay and contribute, even if it means death."

    "Xiao Yi, go."

    "Master, you..."

    "Listen, go. Take Zhang Wenchen and Zhang Wenxin with you. Also, take the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit from my cave, quickly."

    "I won''t go."

    Lin Jiang shouted that he couldn''t help the Lin family in their crisis, and the Five Elements Sect was going to suffer, and they wanted him to leave, but he didn''t want to leave.

    "Xiao Yi, my grandchildren are all in your hands, what else do you want? Do you want me to kneel down and beg you?"

    "Master..."

    "Over these years, I haven''t taught you much, but this might be thest time I can help you."

    "Junior brother, listen to my father, I entrust my son and daughter to you."

    "I..."

    "Shuhua, take him back to the cave and pack up."

    "Okay."

    Zhang Shuhua brought Lin Jiang back to Zhang Wanjing''s cave, and his wife didn''t know what had happened, but she instinctively closed the cave formation because things were chaotic outside.

    "Sir, what are we doing?"

    "Don''t ask, I just won''t leave. Xiao Yi, you take Zhang Wenxin, I will go find Zhang Wenchen."

    Zhang Shuhua didn''t have time to exin. He quickly put his belongings into a storage bag and then handed Zhang Wenxin to Lin Jiang. They swiftly left.

    Lin Jiang regained his calmness and endured the immense pain. He quickly dug out the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit and protected it with a formation before stuffing it into the storage bag.

    When Zhang Shuhua returned with Zhang Wenchen, he immediately brought them to the main hall of the mountain gate. Inside the hall, there were hundreds of people, mostly young disciples, and over ten golden core cultivators. The sect leader gathered the golden core cultivators together.

    "You may know something about the situation outside the sect. Now, we will execute the Seed n. Each of you will receive two storage bags. One bag contains cultivation resources, and the other bag contains advanced techniques of the Five Elements Sect. Each of you will lead twenty people and leave, awaiting further instructions.

    If the sect is destroyed, you will find another ce to thrive and rebuild the sect. If the sect survives, you will return. Remember, the storage bags are sealed. Only open them if absolutely necessary..."

    After Qin Quan exined, without waiting for them to process the information, he activated a formation. In a room behind the main hall, the floor slowly opened, revealing an underground passage.

    Everyone entered the tunnel and walked for a while until they saw a building simr to the main hall. In the middle, there was a teleportation array.

    "Twenty people in a group, follow your Martial Uncle with a golden core. You all must listen to Martial Uncle''smands unconditionally, hurry inside."

    Qin Quan had the disciples form teams of twenty people each, and then they entered the teleportation array. With a sh of light, they disappeared.

 Chapters

    Chapters">

    Yun State

    Steward Wu died in battle, taking an enemy with him before he passed, shedding thest drop of blood for the Lin family.

    The battle in Anhua City wasing to an end, with blood flowing like rivers and corpses scattered everywhere. The Lin family descendants, out-of-town merchants, local residents, and independent cultivators all suffered massacres.

    Lin Die and Lin Ying were heavily injured. Without Lin Batianбпs support, they couldnбпt fight outnumbered, covered in wounds. Big Shadiao was in the same situation, having left the battlefield and soaring high above.

    "Third Brother, Tenth Brother, letбпs go. Itбпs not embarrassing to retreat when we canбпt win. As long as weбпre alive, we can seek revenge."

    Lin Batianmunicated with Lin Die and Lin Ying through messages. He had originally nned for them to escape, but they had returned, disrupting his ns.

    "Father, I want revenge."

    "I have a n for whates next. You go first, if you stay, then I canбпt leave."

    Lin Batian panicked, he had a special affection for the members of the Lin family. There were too many Lin family members and he couldnбпt love them all. Naturally, the closer they were to him in blood and the longer they spent time together, the more he loved them.If it werenбпt for Lin Die and Lin Ying, he would have already run away. He was reaching his limit and couldnбпt hold on much longer.

    "Tenth brother, letбпs go."

    Lin Die immediately changed her mind. A jade talisman flew out of her neck and quickly ignited in the air.

    "Be careful, itбпs a Life Talisman."

    "Join forces to block it."

    All the Nascent Soul cultivatorsбп faces turned pale when they saw that talisman. They join forces to summon a shield, desperately trying to resist it.

    "Boom"

    The Life Talisman exploded, and the Nascent Soul experts were thrown out, although they were all injured, nobody died. Lin Die and Lin Ying climbed onto the back of the Aurora falcon and disappeared from everyoneбпs sight.

    "Damn creatures, they get hurt and still run so fast."

    "The Aurora falcon is known for its speed, Iбпm afraid we canбпt catch up."

    The group didnбпt know what to do in an instant. The birdбпs speed was too fast, even if they tried their best to chase it, they might not be able to catch up.

    "What are you all waiting for? Donбпt let anyone from the Lin family escape."

    Hearing the Soul Changingбпs roar, the group reluctantly chased after, but in just a moment, they were already thousands of miles away. Itбпs hard to say if they can catch up or not.

    "Now itбпs my turn to run."

    Lin Batian saw Lin Die and the others sessfully escape and burst intoughter.

    "Block the space, donбпt let him escape."

    "Can it be blocked? Goodbye."

    Lin Batian took out a round disk, and after activating it, his figure disappeared instantly.

    "Spatiotemporal Mirror, how could he have such a treasure?"

    "The Lin family canбпt possibly have this kind of treasure."

    The six Soul Changers looked at each other, then turned their gaze to one of them.

    "I donбпt know, the Spatiotemporal Mirror has long been lost, I donбпt know where he got it."

    "Damn it, damn it."

    Seeing the person respond like this, the leader became furious. They hade all this way with great effort, only to kill some small fries. If the mission wasnбпtpleted, they would face cruel punishment upon their return.

    "Go catch the people from the Lin family, use their bloodline to find the secret method, make sure not to let them escape or else we will be in big trouble."

    "Donбпt let any of the people from the Lin family go, exterminate all of them in Yun State Lin family, find them, kill."

    After that person became furious, they quickly calmed down. They also have other secret methods. We must eradicate all the people from the Lin family topletely get rid of them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Lin Batian didnбпt run too far, at most twenty thousand miles."

    After a while, several Soul Changing individuals caught the people from the Lin family, painfully refining them alive, taking their essence and spirit, and using a secret method. One of them sensed Lin Batianбпs trace on apass treasure.

    "He must have suffered serious injuries and canбпt activate the Spatiotemporal Mirror."

    "Chase after him, donбпt let him escape."

    "How many people should we send?"

    "Go to the four people more carefully."

    After a quick discussion, they, who had strong power, fought against Lin Batian for so long. Although they were not able to kill Lin Batian, they were certain that they had severely injured him. This was the perfect opportunity to defeat Lin Batian.

    The four people quickly chased after Lin Batian, while the other two joined the people who were on the flying boat before, outside the Five Elements Sectбпs gate. In this way, they had a total of five Soul Changing individuals.

    The remaining Nascent Soul and golden core sections hadpletely scattered in Yun State. Many people from Anhua City were trying to escape, including a number of Lin family members. They wanted to chase after them. The bloodline tracking secret technique had already been issued, and they expected that only a few people would be able to escape.

    After discussing for a moment, one person stepped forward and said, боThere are Lin family members in the Five Elements Sect. Please hand them over.бп

    "The Five Elements Sect has no connection with the Lin family. Friend, have you mistaken?"

    Shi Yuntang shook his head, confirming that the Five Elements Sect really had no connection with the Lin family.

    "The Blood Tracking Secret Technique cannot be wrong. There are at least ten people. Donбпt make it difficult for me."

    "Friend, the Lin family has stood in Yun State for hundreds of years. The number of mortals is in the millions, and when adding up the cultivators, itбпs over ten thousand. There are countless people in Yun State with the Lin family bloodline. Are you all nning to kill them all?"

    Shi Yuntang spoke in a low voice, saying that the Lin family had gone through hundreds of years and several generations. They had countless descendants, with millions of ordinary people and over ten thousand cultivators. In the southwest corner of the Yun State, there were countless people with Lin family bloodline, and it was normal for the Five Elements Sect to have a few as well.

    "What if we annihte the Yun State?"

    "Taoist friend, you have such audacity. Do you really think we are dead people?"

    Jiang Yunchong next to him became very angry. From beginning to end, these people looked down on others, as if they were ants. He couldnбпt bear it anymore.

    "So what? The three major sects in the Yun State may be powerful, but thatбпs all. Do you know who we are? What does it matter if we annihte your Yun State?"

    "How dare you, ughtering all living beings! Who gave you the courage?"

    "You dare to be so disrespectful, even as a mere servant. If people didnбпt know, they would think you are a real immortal."

    "Didnбпt you just ask about Lin Batianбпs jade slip? Iбпll answer you now. I have seen it, and so have we all. You are acting crazy. Do you believe that I can make a million copies right now and spread them throughout the entire cultivation world? If you have the ability, why donбпt you annihte the whole cultivation world instead of just our Yun State?"

    The Soul Changing group waspletely angered. They were respected figures in the sect and had shown some restraint, but now they were pushing the boundaries. Did they really think they had no temper at all?

    Thest sentence was spoken by Feng Zhang, which made the group of Soul Changing angry. The leader said coldly, "Say it again if you dare."

    "Speak if you want to. I have seen the jade slip. So, do you dare to make a move? Can you guarantee that you can kill all of our tens of thousands of disciples from the three sects? As long as one person escapes, I can make the entire cultivation world see that jade slip. Do you have the ability to exterminate the entire cultivation world?"

    "Is Zhonghang Sect tired of living?"

    "Yes, I have lived for over 1,600 years and Iбпm tired of living. Come, try to kill me. If you canбпt kill me, I will kill you first. If things go wrong, wonбпt your master kill you?"

    Feng Zhangбпs temper also rose. He had long found these people unpleasant. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. He couldnбпt bear it. After all, Zhonghang Sect was one of the overlords of Yun State. When had they ever suffered such humiliation?

    "Even ants dare to be so disrespectful. Kill them for me!"

    The leader was also furious, and the others immediately took action. In their eyes, the Yun State cultivation world was nothing more than a remote and backward ce. Whatбпs the difference between these so-called cultivators and ants? How dare they act so boldly?

 Chapter 233

    Chapter 233

    Bing State, residence of the Lin family

    After more than twenty years of history and who knows how much money spent, the Treasured Weapon of Destiny was finallypleted. Lin Jiang received the news and rushed back from out of town.

    "This is your flying sword. Take a look, itбпs of superb quality, almostparable to a spiritual treasure."

    Lin Die handed the flying sword to Lin Jiang, and when Lin Jiang held it in his hand, he felt its weight. It was much heavier than the other weapons.

    "Itбпs heavy because it took hundreds of diamonds. It also requires a high level of spiritual consciousness. You asked for this yourself, so if you canбпt handle it, donбпt me me."

    "No problem, Iбпm sure I can handle it."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, thinking that he underestimated people. In the cultivation world, there are very few people like him who can persist in taking Soul Nourishing Pills for hundreds of years and practice the Soul Refining Technique. This secret technique increases spiritual consciousness at a slow pace and requires persistent efforts. Most cultivators stop practicing after a few decades when they feel their spiritual consciousness is sufficient.

    "If you can use it, itбпs good. If your spiritual awareness is not enough to use it, then it would be a pity."

    "What are the special features of this magic treasure?""Itбпs extremely sharp and incredibly heavy. Ordinary magic treasures would shatter upon contact with it, only top-quality ones could withstand it. After you refine it, you will know all its functions."

    "How much money did it cost?"

    "I canбпt count how much exactly. I used about two billion of your spirit stones. I also contributed some materials myself, and Lin Ying and my father supported me with some. We also used some materials from the Lin familyбпs treasure house. It was crafted by a master craftsman from the central region, who ims that this is the best sword he has ever made in three hundred years."

    Lin Die said that ordinary cultivators cannot afford such a luxurious sword with just a golden core. Most cultivators wouldnбпt invest all their resources in a magic treasure. They would gradually enhance it when they acquire good thingster on.

    "Thank you so much for this great sword, Third Auntie."

    "No need. Just remember to return the materials from the treasure house. The treasure house belongs to all the descendants of the Lin family. Also, we wonбпt be able to craft the defense magic treasure you wanted because we donбпt have enough money."

    "No problem, we can deduct it from the profits of my spiritual jade business until itбпs enough."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He had some shares in the spiritual jade business, both with the Lin family and the Five Elements Sect. Now that the business was thriving, the annual profits were substantial.

    "Okay, then go back and refine your magical treasure."

    "Third Auntie, can I ask where Tenth Auntie and Big Shadiao have been all these years? I havenбпt seen them much."

    Lin Jiang asked again, as he had hardly seen Big Shadiao and Lin Ying at the Lin family in recent years and had no idea what they were busy with.

    "Is it inconvenient to say?"

    Seeing that Lin Die didnбпt answer much, Lin Jiang asked another question.

    "Lin Yu is working with Lin Ying, but I donбпt really understand what they are doing. Itбпs all arranged by my father."

    "Is it very dangerous?"

    "Even if youбпre lying at home, enemies may stille knocking at your door. Thereбпs nopletely safe ce in the cultivation world."

    Lin Die mumbled, she really didnбпt know what Lin Ying was up to, but Lin Die knew that over the years Lin Ying had taken many things from the family treasure vault, including a lot of healing potions. They must be doing something very dangerous, as getting injured was amon urrence for them.

    Lin Jiangбпs gaze darkened, he didnбпt ask any more questions. The information revealed by this statement was enough. With Lin Jiangбпs current strength, even if he went all out, he couldnбпt do much. He had to ept this reality.

    "Work on your cultivation diligently."

    Lin Jiang sighed inwardly. He had all the techniques and resources he needed now, but what hecked was umted time.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Iбпm three hundred and fifty years old."

    On this day, Lin Jiang made himself a cake. For over three hundred years, on his birthday, whenever he had the time, he would make a cake for himself to eat.

    However, Lin Jiang couldnбпt put candles on the cake anymore. Itбпs not because he thought it was silly. Lin Jiang actually found it meaningful and ceremonial. Itбпs just that the cake couldnбпt fit all three hundred and fifty candles. How big of a cake would it take?

    After finishing the cake, Lin Jiang put on a smile and walked out of the door. There was a big fool sitting on the steps outside. He looked back and said. You stole some, I smelled it.

    "I donбпt have it."

    "You stole and I saw it."

    "I didnбпt do it."

    "Thereбпs still something on the corner of your mouth."

    "Itбпs gone now."

    Lin Jiang touched his mouth, probably leftover cream, and said seriously.

    "Hmph, I want to change owners, I want to follow Third Sister."

    The big fool immediately felt displeased, is he really that silly?

    "Remember to call Third Auntie, dare to expose my secret, and youбпll eat stewed bird on an iron te today."

    Lin Jiang threatened Big Shadiao, who is also known as Small Shadiao. Three years ago, Small Shadiao finally woke up from a deep sleep and transformed into a human form after breaking through to the fourth level.

    What puzzled Lin Jiang was that when Big Shadiao was in bird form, he was clearly much smarter than Small Shadiao. But after transforming, Big Shadiaoбпs intelligence hardly increased, while Small Shadiao became just like an ordinary person.

    Naturally, Small Shadiao knew Lin Jiangбпs secret. How could he not know if there was a change in ownership?

    "Youбпre threatening me again, but you canбпt beat me."

    "Oh yeah? Give it a try."

    "I-I want to change owners."

    Upon hearing Lin Jiangбпs words, Small Shadiao immediately felt discouraged. In terms of cultivation, Lin Jiang indeed couldnбпt defeat him. However, they had a Master-servant Contract, just like the suppression of the Tang Monk over Sun Wukong with the tight-fitted Golden Headband.

    So Small Shadiao could only use a change of ownership as a threat.

    "Stop talking nonsense and go hunt in the Wilderness. No hunting means no food. Donбпt just fool me with first or second-level monsters."

    "I want to change owners."

    "You say it eight hundred times a day, arenбпt you tired? Go away quickly!"

    Lin Jiang couldnбпt be bothered to pay attention to him. With the Master-servant Contract in ce, there was nowhere to run. He had Small Shadiao figured out.

    "I want to change owners."

    "Hahaha."

    Seeing Small Shadiao getting angry, Lin Jiang burst intoughter, instantly feeling much better. After all, a smile doesnбпt disappear, it just shifts.

    "I want to change owners."

    Small Shadiao was still stuck with this kind of owner, enduring a string of bad luck. He went hungry for three days, except for being told to go hunting, he didnбпt do anything else.

    "Donбпt bully Lin Cong, I heard it from far away."

    After leaving the house, Lin Jiang looked for Lin Die. Now, Lin family is led by Lin Die inside the house and by Lin Ying outside. Lin Ying cannot be seen all year round, but Lin Die can be seen frequently.

    "This kid is rebellious. It makes me ufortable if he doesnбпt entertain me. From now on, letбпs call him Small Shadiao, not Lin Cong."

    "Why?"

    "Because it reminds me of someone, someone I envy."

    "Who?"

    "Haha, just kidding, Third Auntie. Did you bring me what I asked for?"

    "Itбпs all here. Yuanye Pill, Xuan Yuan Pill, Soul Nourishing Pill, Energy Nourishing Pill. They are all top-quality pills. There are also pills to resolve poison. The dividends you received over the past few years have been used up."

    Lin Die took out a pile of pills. Lin Jiang quickly put them away. He had been taking pills vigorously these past few years. Spirit stones ttered down like rain.

    "No problem, my Five Elements Sect still generates ie."

    "You should take less medicine. I see that you are currently suffering from боDan Poisonбп. It may take several hundred years to cleanse the боDan Poisonбп."

    "My aptitude is poor, thereбпs no way I canpare with you."

    "My aptitude is also not good. Aptitude doesnбпt represent everything. There are hundreds and thousands of disciples in the Five Elements Sect, can they all reach the Golden Core Period in cultivation?"

    "Ha, why are you suddenly talking about this today?"

    Lin Jiang felt speechless. Lin Die doesnбпt seem to be in a good mood today.

    "Because Iбпm in a bad mood, I want to teach someone a lesson."

    "Otherwise, should I call Small Shadiao toe and fight you?"

    "Iбпm here."

    "Third Auntie, donбпt bully others like this."

    "Then hurry up and leave!"

    "Leave immediately!"

    Lin Jiang quickly ran away, a brave man doesnбпt suffer a loss in front of his eyes. If he didnбпt leave, he would really get beaten up.

    Soon Lin Jiang knew why Lin Die was in a bad mood. It was because Lin Batian had run away. Lin Batian had been injured for many years, nobody knew the specifics of his injuries, only he himself knew. But on the surface, he seemed fine now.

    After Lin Batian went to Taixu Sect, Lin Die had been having him rest and recover at home. Lin Batian had been cooperative, but his sudden departure made Lin Die very angry.

    "Having an irresponsible father can really make someone furious."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He couldnбпt control this matter, he couldnбпt even control Little Cotton Coat, let alone himself.

    Lin Jiang quickly returned home to analyze the intelligence. The Three Sects of Yun State had formed an alliance with the Lin family, and the Lin family shared some intelligence with the Three Sects. Lin Jiang received more information.

    The current situation in Qing State was that the four major families had begun to stabilize their foundations, but there were still problems. Lin Jiang used the demonic locust to severely strike the small forces and independent cultivators in Qing State, causing them heavy losses. The four major families, in their efforts to stabilize the market, also lost a lot of money.

    These four major families were greatly impacted, and it took them a longer time to stabilize their foundation. However, Qing State, which was upied by the remnants of another sect, also got a chance to catch their breath and began to fight back. They were not the opponents of the four major families, but that didnбпt stop them fromunching attacks on them.

    Especially in some remote areas, the guarding forces of the four major families were extremely weak and had already suffered a lot of attacks. These remnants adopted guerri tactics, causing great trouble for the four major families.

    Faced with this kind of strategy, the four major families didnбпt have many options. They were not yet powerful enough to control the entire cultivation world. After fighting, they would flee and often hide in the territory of the main gates in the central region. There were also many main gates in the central region where Tao Achieving Ancestors resided, so the four major families were not a threat at all.

    "Could it be that Lin Batian is up to something big again?"

    Lin Jiang wondered in his heart. Based on the intelligence analysis, there was no way to figure out what was going on. But since Lin Batian had fled, it was estimated that he had some kind of n.

 Chapter 234:

    Chapter 234:

    Bing State, the residence of the Lin family.

    When Lin Jiang entered the hall of the Lin familyбпs main gate, he saw Lin Batian, who was smiling at him, leaving Lin Jiang puzzled.

    "Master, why did you call me here?"

    Lin Jiang asked. He had received a message during seclusion and didnбпt know what had happened. He had be hardworking now, so if there was an award for outstanding performance in the cultivation world, he felt he deserved it.

    "You have made great achievements."

    "How have I made great achievements? The master should know that I am an honest person and would never take credit for othersбп achievements unless itбпs well deserved."

    "Haha, those were your words."

    Lin Batian was used to Lin Jiangбпs unserious attitude. Without much hesitation, he handed Lin Jiang a piece of paper, and Lin Jiang nced at it and nodded.

    Even though Lin Jiang had forgotten who he said this to, he knew it was his own words. Unless there was another person from the cultivation world who had crossed over to the Blue Star."You deserve credit for these words."

    Lin Batian nodded. He didnбпt expect that despite his repeated discussions with Lin Qiwen, he couldnбпt convince him. But Lin Dongyang managed to sway Lin Qiwen with just one sentence.

    "Master, may I ask what credit this is?"

    "This sentence has enabled us to persuade a high-ranking member of the Lin family in Qing State. Our people have sessfully infiltrated their ranks."

    "A spy?"

    "Itбпs like using a chicken toy eggs, no, actually the Lin family was already on our side. So you could say itбпs a spy."

    Lin Batian said. Using a chicken toy eggs is not the right analogy. After all, the chicken belongs to us. At most, we could call it a spy.

    "Amazing! The Lin family is full of outstanding people, which is worth celebrating."

    Lin Jiang said. Being undercover is not an easy job. Whenever I think about being undercover, it reminds me of movies like боInfernal Affairsбп and боThe Departed.бп Those characters are all very clever. If I go undercover, I might only survive for three episodes at most, not more than that.

    "Indeed, the Lin family has produced many talented individuals in recent years. It helps to alleviate some of my pressure," said Lin.

    Lin Diemented. After umting for nearly five hundred years, the Lin family has started producing even more exceptional talents. They are not only geniuses in their cultivation.

    This time, Lin Dongyangбпs bravery and cleverness touched Lin Qiwen. These qualities are very high and not something ordinary people can achieve.

    "Xiao Yi, tell me how I can reward you."

    "Master, I am indifferent to fame and fortune. Whether I receive a reward or not doesnбпt matter. Just give me a few billion spirit stones as a token, or even without the spirit stones, a thousand-year-old elixir would do. If thereбпs no elixir avable, a heavenly-ranked cultivation technique would be fineбн"

    "Ahem."

    Lin Batian almost burst outughing. This so-called indifference to fame and fortune. The Lin familyбпs treasure vault should be moved by you, shouldnбпt it?

    "Does thendlord think these rewards are too few? Well thenбн"

    "Get lost!"

    Lin Batian couldnбпt help himself, he picked up a bag and threw it at Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang caught it effortlessly, then rolled on the ground and rolled out of the hall.

    "Third Brother, who do you think this jerk follows? Heбпs so shameless!"

    "Itбпs Sixth Brother, remember? Wasnбпt Sixth Brother just like that in the past? Lazy to death, not afraid even if you try to drive him away for not practicing hard enough. Shamelessly stubborn."

    "Yes, thatбпs true, but he didnбпt inherit any good qualities."

    "Does Sixth Brother have anything good on him?"

    "Hahahaбн"

    Lin Batianughed loudly. It seems the biggest contribution his familyбпs Sixth Brother made was giving birth to a good son and helping the Lin family a lot.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Wow, that old man is really generous!"

    Lin Jiang opened the storage bag that Lin Batian threw to him. Inside, there was only one thing иC a robe. Lin Jiang recognized this robe as the Seven-Colored Silkworm Robe, crafted by the Central State Holy Artifact Sect. It was thin as a silkwormбпs wing, yet incredibly tough. The best thing about it was that it could change into seven different colors. It wasnбпt just a single color; different parts of the robe could freely switch colors.

    This kind of robe, both beautiful and extremely practical, was highly sought after by cultivators. Every time the Holy Artifact Sect released one, there would be a frenzy to grab it, pushing the price sky-high.

    "Thereбпs a faint scent of blood. It must be a spoils of war from somewhere, but I donбпt mind. Hehe."

    Lin Jiang smelled the scent of blood, but he didnбпt mind. The cultivation world doesnбпt care about that. Who doesnбпt have something bloody in this world?

    Without hesitation, Lin Jiang changed into the robe. There wasnбпt even a problem with the fit, as magical-grade robes have the basic function of stretching and contracting freely.

    "Oh my goodness, without realizing it, I already have seven pieces of clothing on me."

    Lin Jiang nced at himself and saw that he was indeed wearing seven pieces of clothing. Each one was a regr-looking piece of clothing, but they were all magical-grade robes. Some of the robes were made of incredibly durable materials, so they didnбпt need to be maintained with spiritual power. When Lin Jiang entered the Divine Kingdom, he wore this type of robe. Others, however, required spiritual power to be infused in order to exert their effects. These robes couldnбпt beyered on top of each other, as the cultivatorбпs spiritual power also had limitations. It was better to use that power to boost weapons for killing enemies.

    "Seven robes, add ayer of armor when fighting, and even the Nascent Soul cannot kill me with one sword."

    Lin Jiang felt very happy. The ancient heavy infantry of Blue Star wore threeyers of armor and could dominate the battlefield. He had eightyers of protection in his golden core. Who could still kill him?

    Changing one robe with just a sentence made Lin Jiang feel happy all day long. He even stopped exploiting Small Shadiao and generously gave him a day off.

    Of course, when Big Shadiao came back, he would still have to be disciplined by Big Shadiao. This guy never knows his ce and always wants to switch masters. Does he think he can juste back after consuming so many resources for hundreds of years without giving back tenfold or even a hundredfold? Does this capitalist have a conscience?

    Another year flew by in the blink of an eye. On this day, Lin Jiang received the usual message from the Five Elements Sect. After reading it, he quietly left the Lin familyбпs residence and headed south, almost leaving Bing State, until he reached a hilltop.

    "Master, you finally came to see me!"

    Lin Jiang saw Zhang Wanjing and opened his arms for a bear hug, but Zhang Wanjing avoided it with a disgusted look.

    "Master, do you dislike me?"

    "Hmm."

    "Love disappears, right?"

    "Yeah."

    "Your senior brother has taken all your love, right?"

    "You talk too much; Iбпll chop you with my sword!"

    Zhang Wanjing couldnбпt help it, he really wanted to chop this rebel down.

    "Haha, just kidding, itбпs not easy to smile often."

    "Be serious, I have something to tell you."

    "Ahem, please speak, Master."

    Lin Jiang coughed, immediately sat upright with a serious expression on his face.

    "The news you brought back recently is somewhat incorrect."

    "Whatбпs incorrect?"

    "The remnants of the four major sects of Qing State haveunched a counterattack against the four major ns. They have killed many people and used techniques from Yun State. The four major ns have sent reinforcements from Yun State and are currently investigating. If weбпre not mistaken, it was done by the members of the Dark Night organization."

    "The Dark Night Assassin Organization?"

    "Yes."

    "Hasnбпt the Dark Night Assassin Organization been missing for many years?"

    Lin Jiang said. The Dark Night Assassin Organization used to be active in the Yunzhong City area. However, they were suppressed by the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect and became low-key afterwards. They hardly appeared anymore.

    "Thatбпs right, but their disappearance doesnбпt mean they donбпt exist. They have just been lying low."

    "Then, what is the purpose of our masterбпs visitбн"

    "Investigating the rtionship between Li Ruoxu and Lin Batian, a secret mission."

    "Wait, isnбпt it the Dark Night Organization? Why investigate Li Ruoxu?"

    "You donбпt know the rtionship between the Dark Night Organization and Li Ruoxu?"

    "Ah!"

    "Really donбпt know?"

    "I am just a person with a golden core, how would I know so many secrets?"

    Li Ruoxu is the most famous independent cultivator in Yun State. Being independent doesnбпt mean he has no mentor. Li Ruoxuбпs master was once a Nascent Soul independent cultivator in Yun State. This person had three disciples in total. The eldest disciple passed away early, leaving two. Li Ruoxu has unparalleled talent in alchemy, thatбпs undeniable. However, no matter how good the talent is, it requires arge amount of alchemy materials to gain experience. How can an independent cultivator afford them?

    After Li Ruoxu became famous, the Dark Night Organization also grew stronger. They have arge number of golden core assassins. The three sects in Yun State that cultivate the Golden Core stage are well known. Although there is a possibility of treasures appearing from other states, it is definitely not a lot. Besides Li Ruoxu, who else can support them?

    After that, the Dark Night Organization went into hiding, and now they are resurfacing. If they donбпt have strong financial support, why would those assassins listen to the organization?

    "So, why didnбпt the Three Sects attack Li Ruoxu?"

    "The assassin organization is not relevant to us, at least not a real threat. And the Three Sects need Li Ruoxuбпs Alchemy. So, we turn a blind eye. But now that the Dark Night Organization is involved with the Qing State, we have to be cautious."

    "That makes sense. What do we need to investigate then?"

    "Why does Li Ruoxu listen to Lin Batian? What is their rtionship?"

    "Master, I am a descendant of the Lin family."

    Lin Jiang said thoughtfully. Does this mean they want him to be a spy? Can he survive for three episodes?

    "Iбпm not asking you to do anything harmful to the Lin family. We just need to know some inside information and make an assessment to prevent this matter from involving the sect. Do you understand?"

    "Iбн"

    "Take your time to consider. You have done a lot over the years, and the sect has noticed. This is the sectбпs reward to you. It includes the techniques of the Unity Art and the Hunyuan Treasure Book. These two techniques, along with the Five Spirit Manual, lead to the same path in advanced cultivation. They will greatly benefit your practice. Here are also insights on cultivating during the Golden Core Period from the Five Spirit Manual, recorded by past disciples of the Five Elements Sect."

    Zhang Wanjing took out a bag and handed it to Lin Jiang, and Lin Jiang felt the reward from the sect for the first time, which was also quite difficult to handle.

 Chapter 235:

    Chapter 235:

    Bing State, residence of the Lin family

    After analyzing Zhang Wanjingбпs words, Lin Jiang strongly suspected that this was a test from the Five Elements Sect, to see where he stood, whether on the side of the Lin family or on the side of the Five Elements Sect.

    Especially when Zhang Wanjing presented the insights of two other powerful martial arts techniques and the Five Spirit Manual, wasnбпt it a test for him? To see how he would choose when faced with great advantages.

    And Lin Jiang knew very well that no matter what choice he made, it would harm the other party. This was a dilemma.

    "Only kids make choices, adults want everything, pff, donбпt want anything at all!"

    Lin Jiang racked his brains for three days and nights, finally came up with a solution to break the deadlock. Since choosing either way was wrong, why not choose nothing?

    Although avoiding was shameful, it was quite useful.

    Thinking, Lin Jiang immediately went to Lin Batianбп cave to bid farewell.

    "Why do you want to leave when everything is fine?"Lin Batian was a bit confused. Wasnбпt Lin Jiang doing well in the Lin family? He had a prestigious status and many Lin family descendants called him uncle. Lin Die didnбпt dislike him either.

    "The world is so big, and I want to go and see."

    "Speak in a way that people can understand."

    "I heard Yi Zhibai married a beautiful wife. His wife has a sister, and I want to go and try to win her over."

    "Haha, does the Lin family not have any beautiful women left?"

    "I am also surnamed Lin."

    "I woke up early, so you donбпt have to worry."

    "The wife is someone elseбпs pretty."

    "Are you going to fight with Yi Zhibai for the wife? Can you beat him?"

    "Master, a forcibly picked melon is not sweet. My decision to leave is firm, staying here is meaningless."

    "Lin Wu, you also know that Iбпve tricked your Yun Stateбпs three major sects. Although they donбпt say it out loud, they definitely remember it in their hearts. With you here, there can still be a buffer."

    "I only have a golden core."

    Lin Jiang forced a smile and said. What kind of buffer? Now they have already started testing. Who knows what will happen in the future?

    "Your master is Zhang Wanjing. Donбпt you know Zhang Wanjingбпs position in the Five Elements Sect?"

    "Itбпs been decades since I went back."

    "The current leader of the Five Elements Sect, Qin Quan, is just a figurehead. All major affairs of the sect are decided solely by Zhang Wanjing. Shi Yuntangбпs Soul Changing group also obeys Zhang Wanjingбпs orders. And Zhang Wanjing lives up to everyoneбпs expectations. After the battle of the Five Elements Sect, the sect has not only recovered in the past few decades, but also be even more vigorous. Its momentum is greater than that of the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect."

    "Really?"

    Lin Jiang shook his head, he really didnбпt know. Although the sect would send him regr updates, they wouldnбпt mention these things. Lin Jiang felt even more burdened because if that was the case, this time it might be Zhang Wanjingбпs intention to test Lin Jiang.

    "So stay, itбпll benefit both of our families."

    "I feel like Iбпm getting old, with not much time left. I want to travel around."

    "Your father used that excuse back then, but he really didnбпt have much time left. You still have at least a hundred years, donбпt trick me."

    "Alright."

    Seeing that he couldnбпt convince him, Lin Jiang didnбпt say anything more.

    When he returned to his residence, Lin Jiang left behind two letters and then slipped away with little hesitation. Seriously, if you say to stay, then just stay! Itбпs really embarrassing.

    The main issue was that being a mediator was difficult. It felt like being caught in the middle, just like a hamburger. Conflicted from both sides, itбпs best to run away first.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Pure Jade Sect

    Yi Zhibai is getting married. He had a wife before and already had children and grandchildren. But he has been wandering in the Divine Kingdom for hundreds of years and his wife has already passed away. Now that he has made some money, he has the idea to marry again.

    However, his new wifeбпs cultivation level is not very high, only at the Building Foundation Period. Many high-level cultivatorsбп wives have low cultivation levels because women with high levels of cultivation have a low desire for childbirth, which is difficult. They usually donбпt want to dy their own cultivation path because of childbirth.

    Take Chen Mingyang and Ouyang Qing from the Zhonghang Sect, for example. They have been married for hundreds of years but have not had any children. Of course, their situation is quite special. Usually, when two Nascent Soul cultivators marry, the male cultivator will take several concubines to carry on the family line.

    The wedding feast was a big asion and, of course, Lin Jiang couldnбпt be absent. Lin Jiang happily brought Small Shadiao to the Pure Jade Sect and, thanks to Small Shadiao, he was given a seat at the feast.

    "Brother Xiao, you really hide well. You actually have a fourth-order beast pet."

    When Yi Zhibai saw Small Shadiao, he was also surprised. Itбпs not umon for cultivators to have beast pets, but itбпs extremely rare for a beast pet to reach the fourth order. This is because the advancement of demonic beasts is even more difficult than that of humans, and the resources needed are enormous. Not many people have the luxury to afford it.

    "Itбпs okay, just so-so. Where is your sister-inw? Can shee out and say hello?"

    Lin Jiang took a look at Small Shadiao, such a big eater, focused on eating.

    Lin Jiang quietly kicked Small Shadiao, hey, eat a little less, leave some for him, what will he eat when you finish.

    "Haha, Iбпll be out in a moment, letбпs have a drink first."

    "Okay, now I will be an independent cultivator, relying on Brother Yi for support in the future."

    "Whatбпs wrong with you?"

    "My master is forcing me to marry. I told my master that my future wife must be as beautiful as Brother Yiбпs wife. If sheбпs not that beautiful, I wonбпt ept her. My master got angry and kicked me out."

    "Nonsense, do you think Iбпm a three-year-old child?"

    "Ask if your wife has a sister, letбпs get even closer."

    "Get lost! You deserve death for even thinking about my sister-inw!"

    Yi Zhibai got angry, and as soon as Lin Jiang opened his mouth, he knew he was talking nonsense.

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, and the people around him also startedughing. The room was filled with a joyful atmosphere.

    After a while, the bride came out, and Yi Zhibaiбпs taste turned out to be good.

    It was just funny to see Yi Zhibaiбпs son with white hair paying respects to the young bride in her prime.

    "Brother Yi, when you have a son in the future, remember to name him Tian Wenjing."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    "My Taoist friend is just joking, my husbandбпs surname is Yi."

    "It was just a joke,e on, letбпs have a drink."

    "Xiao Yi, are you still nning to make me drink today? Thatбпs not ethical."

    "Itбпs okay, drink a little more, drink a little more, it will make you happy."

    "I can see that youбпre up to no good, young man."

    Yi Zhibai immediately stopped drinking. This guyбпs eyes are sneaky. He canбпt get drunk, otherwise nobody will know what will happen on his wedding night.

    "Brother Yi, you go give others a toast first. Iбпll have a few bites of food. My greedy pet at home will finish all the dishes."

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter, then he grabbed Small Shadiao from the food bowl. What a shame, he doesnбпt even know how to care for his owner.

    "Iбпm still not full."

    "You, a fourth-level monster, if you want to be full, even eating everything prepared for the feast wonбпt be enough. Thatбпs about right."

    "So stingy, preparing such a small amount of things."

    "Lower your voice, big brother. I didnбпt bring much for the gift, just recouping the expenses from the meal is enough."

    "How many did you bring?"

    "One level three Demon Core."

    "What? Thatбпs my food!"

    Small Shadiao got angry. He had worked hard to hunt demons in the Wilderness, and you actually took his Demon Core as a gift?

    "Youбпve eaten a lot too, so itбпs worth it."

    "No, I have to keep eating."

    "Oh my goodness, donбпt snatch it. Itбпs embarrassing. Donбпt say you know me in the future."

    "Fine, Iбпll go find Third Sister. I want Third Sister to be my owner."

    "Besides, Iбпll break your bones with this. I want to see how much backbone you really have."

    Lin Jiang became very angry and almost started a fight with a bird. The people around looked at each other in surprise. Yi Zhibai is usually veryposed, how does he know someone like Sixth Brother?

    At a banquet, Lin Jiang became famous in the Pure Jade Sect.

    But Lin Jiang didnбпt care. This was intentional on his part. He didnбпt n on wandering around the world anymore. He would stay in Yucheng City and live his life. He would wait for a hundred years before deciding anything.

    Whether itбпs the Five Elements Sect or the Lin family, they are both doing well. He doesnбпt need to do anything. He doesnбпt have any power. Lin Batian has more cunning tactics than him. He doesnбпt need to do anything.

    "Brother Xiao, Brother Xiao,e over here."

    The banquet started to disperse, and Yi Zhibai beckoned to Lin Jiang.

    "Brother Yi, what can I do for you? Do you need help?"

    "You, I really want to beat you up."

    "What are you talking about, Brother Yi? Iбпm asking if you need any help."

    "I donбпt want to argue with you, this is my senior brother, and my senior brother also has a special pet called Golden Feather Carving, which is already a high-quality third-tier. It probably wonбпt be able to reach the fourth-tier. I want to keep a breed, please help, Brother Xiao."

    "As for me, this isnбпt really appropriate, Iбпm just a person."

    "Be more serious, I mean your pet."

    Yi Zhibai almost got really angry, who asked for your help? Are you really able to be of any help?

    "Ah, the pet, matching, breeding, got it."

    "How about it, give me face, help me out."

    "No problem, as brothers, I definitely wonбпt charge your senior brother much, just half the market price."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, then turned back to nce at Small Shadiao, who turned pale and was ready to run away. This feast is not to be enjoyed. If you dine here, youбпll have to give up something. Now I feel like vomiting, can you handle that?

 Chapter 237:

    Chapter 237:

    Bing State, Yucheng City

    Chaos erupted in Lin Jiangбпs cave once again. Golden Feather Carving tried to please Small Shadiao, wanting to get closer to it, but Small Shadiao was very disdainful. Being a mediocre bird, it often attacked Golden Feather Carving. After a few days, its golden feathers became dull.

    Meanwhile, Lin Jiang secured several shops in Yucheng City and nned to open some restaurants. They would not be upscale but rather mid-range and affordable. The low-end ones would mainly serve modern fast food, catering to the lower-level cultivators in Yucheng City, i.e., the poor. As for the mid-range ones, they wouldnбпt focus on any special features. Lin Jiang would simply follow what others were doing, at most personally teaching some new dishes.

    It was mainly for Lin Jiang himself, he couldnбпt get rid of the habit of eating and didnбпt feel like cooking, so he decided to open a restaurant where he could eat as much as he wanted without worrying about the money.

    After a busy period, several months passed and the restaurant wasnбпt making much noise, but the business was very good, especially the low-end fast food, which was highly popr with regr customers and the business was extremely busy.

    One day, Lin Jiang rolled up his sleeves, feeling full and acting like a boss, he inspected his property and ran into a cold-faced Zhang Shuhua at the entrance.

    "Hey, isnбпt this my dear senior brother?"

    "You still remember that Iбпm your senior brother?"

    "Of course I remember,e on, senior brother,e in and have some tea."Lin Jiangughed loudly and pulled Zhang Shuhua into the shop, asking the staff to serve tea.

    "Junior brother, my father is very angry, the sect is very angry."

    "Senior brother, taste the spiritual tea here, itбпs a specialty of Bing State, you canбпt find it in Yun State."

    "I am speaking to you seriously."

    "Drinking tea is also possible to say."

    "You wouldnбпt drug me, would you?"

    "Youбпre not a beauty, why would I drug you?"

    Lin Jiang realized that he had been overthinking. Even if he was a handsome and wealthy man like Lin Jiang, there was no need for him to do such things. Now, which independent cultivator in Yucheng City didnбпt know about Lin Jiang?

    "Tell me, how do you want to solve this?"

    "Letбпs agree from the beginning, itбпs not my faultбн"

    "Do you have a reason to leave without saying anything?"

    "You forced me to do it."

    "What did my dad do?"

    "My job is not to spy on the Lin family and find their secrets."

    "An envoy is basically a public spy, and everyone knows that."

    "Yes, itбпs true, but I am also a rtive of the Lin family. Weбпre family, so what would you do if your dad asked you to investigate your motherбпs family? Would you agree?"

    "Iбн"

    "So running away is the best choice, not angering anyone, donбпt you think so?"

    Lin Jiang said, he believed he was not at fault in this matter. He didnбпt want to offend anyone or be persecuted. Leaving was the right thing to do.

    "But I shouldnбпt have just left, my dad got angry when he found out."

    "Well, it doesnбпt matter because Iбпm not there, being angry is useless."

    "You brought shame upon our sect."

    "So I came to Yucheng City to atone for my sins. My business has doubled in the past six months, I hope they didnбпt miss all those piles of spiritual jade I sent back."

    Lin Jiang said. Iбпve been busy these days, besides running my own restaurant, the business with spiritual jade has been thriving as well.

    "No matter what, youбпre right, arenбпt you?"

    "Thatбпs close enough, or would you like to hear me argue some more?"

    "Youбпre asking for a beating more and more."

    "Haha, my senior brother canбпt bear to beat me."

    "My father wants you toe back to the sect and exin."

    "I canбпt go back, Iбпve already prepared the exnation for the sect. Itбпs all in this Image Saving Talisman, please take it back for me, senior brother."

    "You are breaking the rules of the gate, you are bing more and more unruly."

    Zhang Shuhua was in a bad mood. Before, Lin Jiang was not like this. Now, he has a feeling of being untouchable, even by the sect.

    "Senior brother, I donбпt think I am being unruly. I wonбпt talk about my contributions to the sect. Thatбпs what a disciple should do. In the past, Jin Yu and others in the Five Elements Sect were corrupt and did many bad things, but the sect didnбпt treat them with discipline. Now, the sect wants to put me in a difficult situation and I just donбпt want to do it. Does that mean I am unruly? Have I harmed the sect?"

    "I canбпt argue with you."

    "Then letбпs not talk about it. The higher-ups of the sect will handle it. No matter how they punish me, I will ept it. But itбпs impossible for me to go back now."

    "Ah, how did ite to this? Everything has changed."

    Zhang Shuhua furrowed his brow and was very unhappy. Is this what growing up is? Canбпt go back to the way things were before? It was so good when he was in the Internal Affairs Hall and at the stronghold.

    "Donбпt think about these unhappy things. Come, Iбпll take you to explore Yucheng City and get some gifts for Wen Chen and Wen Xin."

    Lin Jiang was generous and didnбпt care about all that. He pulled Zhang Shuhua away from the restaurant, buying gifts for Zhang Wenchen and almost everyone they knew. Be prosperous and never forget each other, right? Old Lin is not stingy.

    When Zhang Shuhua talked about his sons and daughters, there was a smile on his face. His sons and daughters are all very talented, not only in their spiritual abilities, but also in their hard work in cultivation. They have now reached the stage of building a solid foundation.

    After buying a bunch of gifts, Lin Jiang brought Zhang Shuhua back to his house. As soon as Zhang Shuhua entered the door, he saw a beautiful carving made of golden feathers.

    "Is it your junior brotherбпs new pet?"

    "No, it belongs to the Pure Jade Sect."

    "You didnбпt steal it, did you?"

    "Senior brother, is this how you see me? Iбпm really angry."

    "I casually mentioned it, how did the Pure Jade Sectбпs Golden Feather Carving end up with you?"

    "My pet has reached the fourth stage. The Pure Jade Sect wants to pass down their Golden Feather Carving to him. They want my pet to help."

    "I see. By the way, our Five Elements Sect also has a few senior brothers. Martial Uncle has a flying-type pet too. I can bring your pet back and improve the bloodline of our Five Elements Sectбпs pets."

    "No problem"

    Lin Jiang immediately agreed, anyway it wouldnбпt be him who suffers.

    "These years, we have actually been quite exhausted. The four major families have been too oppressive, and the sect has been holding their breath. Itбпs fine for the other disciples, they just need to cultivate. But my father and the others have to take care of the food and expenses for tens of thousands of people in the sect. I had my arm disabled before, and my father sought many people for medicineбн"

    "Senior brother, no one lives without exhaustion. Mortals work hard for their basic needs, and cultivators strive for cultivation resources. Everyone is living with effort."

    "I have limited abilities, I canбпt help my father much. Those in the sect with golden cores and the like are not being held back by anyone and there is a tendency for chaos. My father really wants you to go back."

    "It wonбпt be that bad. A sect of tens of thousands of people wonбпt crumble just because Iбпm not there. Youбпre just worrying too much. Enjoy good food and drinks, donбпt think too much."

    Lin Jiang never thinks highly of himself. The Five Elements Sect surely has talented individuals, especially with Zhang Wanjing in control. This is just Zhang Shuhuaбпs wishful thinking.

    "Junior brotherбн"

    "Letбпs not talk about that today, letбпs just talk about enjoying ourselves. Senior brother, how about I take you to Yuhuan Tower? It may not be as grand as the Pce Banquet in Medicine City but it has its own unique charm, with beautiful scenery and melodious musicбн"

    "The senior apprentice brother is a married man."

    Zhang Shuhuaбпs face turned dark. Can hepete with you? He is a married man, a respectable person.

    "Haha, the junior apprentice brother made a mistake. Come, letбпs have some tea and alcohol. I will punish myself by drinking three cups first."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, but he changed the topic as a result. Lin Jiang is really unwilling to talk about the sect now. He has already left the Five Elements Sect for many years.

    "Xiao Brother, Xiao Brother!"

    They chatted for a while, and then Yi Zhibai arrived.

    "Oh, we have a guest! Xiao Brother"

    "The senior apprentice brother from my hometown came to visit me today."

    "That is a distinguished guest from Yun State. Why are they here? Come, letбпs go to Yuhuan Tower. I will treat you. Xiao Brotherбпs senior apprentice brother is also my friend."

    "No, no, no, Brother Yi. My martial brother is a respectable person with a family."

    "I also have a family, but we y differently. Letбпs go."

    "I really canбпt go this time. Iбпll y with Brother Yi in a few days."

    "Alright, no pressure. I came this time to deliver something, so I can finally take down your beast pet."

    Yi Zhibai ced a storage bag down, inside which were specially-made pills, designed for beast pets to consume.

    Itбпs a bit like dog-wolf and cat food, made from dozens of ingredients such as monster beast meat, Demon Core, spiritual paddy, spiritual medicine, etc. It was invented by the Central Domainбпs Beast Taming Sect, but many sects have cracked it, imitated it, and even improved upon it. It is highly favored by beast pets.

    Small Shadiao couldnбпt resist the temptation and became less inclined to beat up the Golden Feather Carving. The bond between the two birds grew stronger.

    "Brother Yi, you didnбпt add any extra ingredients this time, right? You know my beast pet has a bad temper and can really hurt someone. I think you might not be a match for it."

    "Haha, Brother Xiao, I definitely wonбпt make that mistake. Donбпt worry, but we should hurry up with this matter. Itбпs been almost a year."

    "Donбпt worry, itбпs important to be patient, right?"

    "Yes, alright, I have something to do, so Iбпll go now. See you in a few days."

    Yi Zhibai smiled. In the medicine, he added a special ingredient that Small Shadiao ended up consuming, almost causing a rampage.

    "Who is this person?"

    "He is a friend of mine from the Pure Jade Sect. Heбпs the one who handles all the spiritual jade business. Otherwise, as an outsider, why should I be able to establish myself here?"

    "Judging from his appearance, he doesnбпt seem to be a good person."

    "Haha, are you and I really good people?"

    Lin Jiang burst intoughter. They have also killed many people. Itбпs too simplistic for people in the cultivation world to differentiate between good and evil.

    He and Yi Zhibai became acquainted while in the Divine Kingdom. At first, they shared life-and-death experiences. Later on, it became a partnership driven by mutual benefits. Now, they have a bnce of power. Although Lin Jiang has a golden core, he also has a fourth-tier beast pet and is supported by a mysterious sect or family.

    "Youбпre right, when weбпre away from home, itбпs important to be careful."

    "Understood."

    "Iбпll stay for two days and then Iбпll go. Right now, Iбпm taking over your responsibilities in the Lin family. Thereбпs a lot going on in Qing State and the Lin family has been going crazy, constantly assassinating members of the four major families. Many people from both sides have died."

    "You take care too."

    Lin Jiang nodded. If everything goes as nned, he would leave without saying goodbye. The sect would still need to send someone to Lin family, otherwise, they wouldnбпt be able to control the situation in Qing State.

    After staying for two days, Zhang Shuhua left. Lin Jiang went to meet Yi Zhibai as nned. Yi Zhibaiбпs jade gambling business had taken off and he had formed an alliance with many Nascent Soul cultivators from the Pure Jade Sect. Their business was booming, making a fortune. It was a time of great sess for them.

    "It seems like Brother Yi is building high towers."

    Lin Jiang looked at Yi Zhibaiбпs current circle of friends, all Nascent Soul cultivators, and sighed.

 Chapter 238:

    Chapter 238:

    Bing State, Yucheng City.

    As soon as Lin Jiang opened the door, he saw two birds kissing each other. Golden Feather Carving was holding a pill and feeding it to Small Shadiao, who swallowed it in one bite. Then, Small Shadiao picked up a piece of dried meat and fed it to Golden Feather Carving. Golden Feather Carvingбпs eyes were full of stars, almost overflowing with happiness.

    "You have no shame, showing affection early in the morning."

    Lin Jiangughed and cursed, and Small Shadiao rolled its eyes and flew over.

    "You dare to give me a dirty look. You are a scumbag, no, a scumbird."

    "You are the scumbag."

    "You still dare to talk back. Where is your birdpanion? Donбпt care about it, loving the rich and despising the poor?"

    "Loving the rich and despising the poor is the talk of your human race. We demons donбпt have such things."

    "Wow, youбпve learned to talk back, but what youбпre saying makes sense. How did you tame him, Golden Feather?""Big brother, me and Shun are truly in love with each other. Please donбпt disturb us."

    "Yeah, you should leave."

    Two birds sang in perfect harmony, leaving Lin Jiang shocked. Had he been in seclusion for years? It had only been a few days, but everything had changed.

    "Little Golden Feather, you go and y first. Small Shadiao,e with me for a moment."

    Lin Jiang said with a big smile. He asked Small Shadiao to transform first and then brought him back into the house, otherwise they couldnбпt get in. After that, he quickly set up a barrier.

    "What are you doing?"

    "Whatбпs the matter with you? Werenбпt you determined not to obey?"

    "Did I say that?"

    "Didnбпt I say it?"

    "Master, donбпt tell me you believe in bird talk."

    "Iбн"

    Small Shadiao rolled his eyes again, making Lin Jiang furious. Who taught him this nonsense? Small Shadiao goes out to y every day, could he be ying with shady birds?

    "Enough, thereбпs no one else here. Tell me, what are you thinking?"

    "Master, youбпve been pushing for this all along and I agreed. Why are you changing your mind now?"

    "Because Iбпve realized youбпre up to no good."

    "No, I just want to mix some medicinal herbs. You never buy them for me."

    "Those Beast Spirit Pills are too expensive, and you canбпt afford them, Master."

    Lin Jiang pursed his lips. It was the kind of medicinal herbs Yi Zhibai had sent before, and they were quite expensive, especially if they were to help Small Shadiao in his cultivation. Giving him a taste asionally was fine, but it couldnбпt be his main food. Lin Jiang couldnбпt afford that.

    "Then itбпs settled, free food and drinks and a wife, isnбпt that good?"

    "Youбпre right, it makes sense. But let me warn you, be smart about it. Donбпt mention anything about me, the Five Elements Sect, or the Lin family. And donбпt go more than twenty miles outside the city. If someone attacks you, I wonбпt be able to save you."

    Lin Jiang spoke seriously, the martial arts world is full of deceit and trickery, itбпs hard to defend against. Lin Jiang doesnбпt fully trust the Pure Jade Sect either. Since he arrived in Yucheng City, he has never left the city.

    Small Shadiao is the same. Usually, no one dares to have any ideas about a fourth rank beast pet. But if someone does, Lin Jiang wonбпt be able to handle it. The persona he created may not be able to hold up.

    "I understand, I wonбпt wander around."

    "Iбпm not joking with you, you know. Youбпre fast, but there are ways to deal with you."

    "Yes, I understand."

    "Go on, finish the mission quickly. There are plenty of mother birds waiting for you in the future."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Little Shadiao was shocked and wondered if he could be killed with a knife.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Haha, thank you very much, Brother Xiao."

    Two monthster, Yi Zhibai came to visit. He wanted to take away the Golden Feather Carving, which belonged to his senior brother. This was considered a favor owed.

    "Itбпs a small matter, why be so polite, Brother Yi?"

    "Howбпs Brother Xiao considering the matter we discussed earlier?"

    "No problem, weбпll send someone to collect it in a few days."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Recently, Yi Zhibai had mentioned that in his gambling jade business, there were many low-grade spiritual jades and scrap pieces. He wanted theirpany to take them away, and Lin Jiang agreed.

    The Five Elements Sect and the Lin family both have many low-level disciples. These low-grade spiritual jades are just right for them. Thereбпs a way to handle them, and Lin Jiang wonбпt lose out. Itбпs just a bit of trouble.

    "Thank you so much, Brother Xiao. Letбпs talk about the price."

    "Youбпre too kind, Brother Yi."

    "Brother Xiao, why donбпt you visit my ce sometime? Iбпve been open for so long, but youбпve nevere."

    "Okay, Iбпll go when I have some free time."

    "Donбпt wait too long. How about three days from now? Iбпll be waiting for you."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang didnбпt keep refusing, and Yi Zhibai mentioned it several times, but he just kept making excuses. He definitely wonбпt go and y.

    Small Shadiao watched as the Golden Feather Carving was taken away. The two birds showed deep affection, tears swirling in their eyes. Lin Jiang and Yi Zhibai felt somewhat emotional. Birds are really better than humans.

    "Finally leaving."

    As soon as Yi Zhibai left, Small Shadiaoбпs reluctance disappeared instantly, like a magic trick.

    "Oh my goodness, youбн"

    "Whatбпs wrong with me?"

    "What else can I say, amazing!"

    Lin Jiang was greatly impressed, Small Shadiaoбпs acting skills were just a little bit worse than his, impressive indeed.

    "Crying and bbering, so annoying."

    "Being tough is cool."

    "Sheбпs just too lousy, only a third-grade product, she hasnбпt even caught any prey, not worthy of being an eagle."

    "Why donбпt you go catch a few, simple request, just third-grade is enough."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Small Shadiao turned and left, determined not to give the capitalist any chance.

    Three dayster, Lin Jiang went to Yi Zhibaiбпs ce. There is a specific area in Yucheng City for gambling with jade, and it is tightly guarded by the Pure Jade Sect. There is usually a Soul Changing Ancestor there to prevent any trouble.

    "Brother Xiao, wee"

    "Brother Yi, this business is good"

    "Just a small skirmish"

    Yi Zhibai modestly said that there are dozens of jade gambling ces in Yucheng City, and he is now among the top five because he has brought in a group of Nascent Souls as shareholders, and these Nascent Souls are backed by Soul Changing.

    "Brother Yi, you underestimate yourself. I will still rely on your support in the future."

    "We are life and death brothers, thereбпs no need to say that. Come on, let me show you around."

    Yi Zhibai smiled and then wandered around the venue with Lin Jiang.

    The venue was very simple, with piles of rough spiritual jade stones ced on the ground. These stones were differentiated by size, weight, and other factors, and had different prices. After buying them, the venue could help to cut them open.

    "Brother Yi, some cultivators have mastered eye techniques. Arenбпt they afraid of encountering experts?"

    "Brother Xiao, no one in the world does unprofitable business. Thatбпs what you said."

    "I would like to hear more details."

    "Cultivators have various mysterious techniques. Some eye techniques can see through illusions. That is indeed true. But how many people can actually master these secret techniques? And how many of them are low-level cultivators? Brother Xiao, take a look at the venue. How many customers are above the Nascent Soul stage?"

    "I havenбпt seen many. Mostly Qi Refining and Building Foundation stage, with few Golden Core stage cultivators."

    "Exactly, if real expertse, we just have to admit a little loss and politely ask them to leave. Be friendly and courteous, and everyone will be fine."

    Yi Zhibaiughed loudly. There must be such amazing people, just like in a casino where there are always some gambling masters. When encountering them, just add them to the cklist.

    "I understand, itбпs just like ying at a regr casino, right?"

    "Almost the same, Brother Xiao, are you interested in ying a few rounds?"

    "Not interested, Iбпm just here to watch."

    "Hey, no pressure, actually itбпs best to stay away from this kind of thing. Human nature is inherently greedy. People who make quick money can never be satisfied with ordinary ie. In the world of cultivating immortality, alchemy is the most profitable skill. But do alchemists really make a lot of money? With these raw stones, if you cut them open, maybe youбпll find an extraordinary spiritual jade."

    Yi Zhibai said. Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation can make money, but thatбпs just the impression of ordinary people. Even if these things make money, itбпs all based on skills and hard work. Thereбпs no way to get rich quick, and thereбпs no easy way to make money. As long as people have desires, their business will not be bad.

    "Brother Yi, do these raw stones have anything inside them, like sealing an ancient divine item?"

    "Brother Xiao, youбпre overthinking it. These raw stones have been buried underground for tens of thousands or even millions of years. If there was really something inside, it would have died long ago."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He was actually afraid of such things happening. If some unforeseen event urred, he wouldnбпt know what to do. He had nowhere to run.

    Yi Zhibai always asks Lin Jiang toe here. The ultimate goal is to get Lin Jiang to invest money here. There are different levels of gambling on jade. Although Yi Zhibaiбпs ce isrge, there arenбпt many high-end things here. He still wants to get a share of the high-end market.

    However, entering the high-end market requires a lot of capital. Neither he nor his partners want to invest all the money themselves. They want to find others to share the risk. It is obvious that Lin Jiang is the wealthy person they have in mind. After all, you canбпt afford to raise a fourth-level beast pet without money.

    "Showing off too much. Iбпll find an opportunity to leave again."

    Lin Jiang sighed when he saw Yi Zhibai repeatedly looking for him. He really wants to find a ce to practice well. It seems that he wonбпt stay in Yucheng City for long. He should look for an opportunity to escape again.

 Chapter 239:

    Chapter 239:

    Bing State иC Yucheng City

    Lin Jiang is very sensitive to risks. Yi Zhibai has invited him to invest several times, which has already revealed his wealth. This worries Lin Jiang a lot.

    He doesnбпt trust people easily. If Yi Zhibai and the others are sessful, they might not have any bad intentions towards him. But if they encounter setbacks, itбпs not certain anymore.

    Lin Jiang doesnбпt want to take this risk, so after leaving the gambling ce, he starts nning his escape.

    In spiritual jadeбпs shop, there were some Lin family members acting as supervisors. Lin Jiang discussed with them and asked them to send messages back to the Lin family and send more people.

    The Lin family on the other side was very efficient. They were in desperate need of money, so within half a month, more than ten people arrived.

    Lin Jiang decided to entrust all the business to them, including his restaurants. He gave the Lin family 50% of the shares and let them manage everything.

    He also introduced Yi Zhibai and others to the Lin family, helping them establish connections. Once everything was arranged, Lin Jiang quietly left Yucheng City.

    However, Lin Jiang didnбпt return to the Lin family. He couldnбпt go back to Yun State either. He went to a ce called Zhongzhou, known as a sacrednd for cultivating immortality.Zhongzhou is the ancestralnd of the human race. It is where the human race began to rise and establish itself in this world. It is now the strongest region in the cultivation world, even surpassing the Qing State, which is represented by the four major families.

    After a long journey, Lin Jiang arrived at the territory of the Shenmu Sect. The Shenmu Sect is one of the most powerful forces in the cultivation world, and it is led by Tao Achieving Ancestor.

    Apart from the Tao Achieving Ancestor, the most remarkable thing about the Shenmu Sect is a divine tree. It is a towering tree, reaching thousands of feet in height and cannot be hugged by nearly a hundred people. It has been alive for an unknown number of years. ording to legend, this tree existed during the time of the Thunder Emperor. There are rumors that the tree has already reached the Disaster Crossing Period and only needs to ovee the Heavenly Tribtion to ascend.

    There are countless rumors, but it is certain that this divine tree is the source of the Shenmu Sectбпs greatest power, unmatched by any other.

    "A tree passes on for generations, even when people are gone."

    Lin Jiang stood outside Shenmu City, hundreds of miles away, and could still see that precious tree. It truly was a treasure.

    Lin Jiang learned from the mistakes in Yucheng City and put Small Shadiao into the Spirit Beast Bag. This made Small Shadiao, who was used to freedom, very unhappy. Lin Jiang promised two bottles of Beast Spirit Pill before Small Shadiao agreed.

    Shenmu City is arger city than Yunzhong City, with more people and higher cultivation levels. But the territory is alsorger, with a radius of over a hundred miles. The housing prices are not as crazy as in Yunzhong City.

    Lin Jiang rented a residence and settled downfortably. After half a month of exploration, Lin Jiang had a basic understanding of Shenmu City.

    Shenmu City is aprehensive city, with dozens ofrgemercial establishments. Almost all major forces in the central region, including Bing State and other provinces, have theirmercial establishments here. Various resources are extremely abundant. As long as you have money, you can buy many resources that cannot be obtained elsewhere. Of course, the prices are very expensive, with high markups.

    However, this is actually suitable for someone like Lin Jiang. Various adventures and opportunities are not suitable for him. If he wants good things, he can only buy them from the market. Thatбпs why a big city is Lin Jiangбпs first choice.

    Another month passed and Lin Jiang acquired a remote small shop. The shop is very small, only twenty to thirty square meters. Lin Jiang opened a small shop for spiritual talismans. He didnбпt expect this small shop to make money. It was just to cover up his identity. Otherwise, as an independent cultivator, staying at home all the time, focusing only on cultivation, it wouldnбпt be convincing.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt even hire anyone, he directly made Small Shadiao act as a shop assistant. For this, Lin Jiang specifically bought him a treasure that conceals his aura. This way, even a Nascent Soul cultivator would find it difficult to discover his true identity, reducing unnecessary trouble.

    After everything was arranged, Lin Jiang began to close himself off intermittently. For over three hundred years, Lin Jiang rarely stayed in seclusion for long periods of time. Instead, he would practice for a while and then take a few days to rx. If he stayed closed off for too long, he was afraid he would go crazy.

    The Shenmu Sect had a unique advantage in the cultivation of spiritual crops because of that divine tree. It far surpassed the Five Elements Sect in this aspect. Furthermore, the Shenmu Sect produced and sold their own goods. They grew excellent medicinal herbs and had great alchemy techniques, which allowed the medicines in Shenmu City to be far superior to those in other normal regions. This greatly benefited Lin Jiangбпs cultivation.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Xiao Brother"

    "Xiao Brother"

    In the blink of an eye, a year had passed. On this day, the owners of several shops near Lin Jiangбпs small shop came in. Lin Jiang had already boiled water and brewed tea, waiting for them.

    In Shenmu City, Lin Jiang didnбпt change his name and still went by the name "Xiao Yi." After all, he hadnбпt nned topletely sever ties with the Five Elements Sect and the Lin family.

    "You Taoist friends came at just the right time. The tea is still hot."

    Lin Jiang smiled. Humans are social creatures, and Lin Jiang was no exception. After arriving in Shenmu City, he proactively visited the surrounding shops, slowly expanding hiswork and integrating into the smallmunity of Shenmu City. The people visiting Lin Jiangбпs shop were all owners of nearby shops.

    Their strength is not as good as those big merchants, so they secretly form alliances and help each other. When someonees to their shops and they donбпt have goods, they will rmend each other or secretly borrow goods, etc. Itбпs not as hostile as imagined, but rather very united. After all, in a ce like Shenmu City, it is very difficult for small merchants to survive. Their enemies are those big merchants.

    "Old Luo, learn something from Brother Xiao. Every time we gather, he brings out the best tea. Your tea is the worst, even an ordinary person can drink it."

    "How can Ipare with Brother Xiao? Brother Xiao only has his brother, but I have a big family to support. There are more than 20 people. Of course, I have to save some."

    "Who made you have so many?"

    "Nonsense, I only had seven, and six of them are daughters. Thereбпs only one son. Itбпs my stupid son who can have so many children. What can I do?"

    "Old Luo is useless. He keeps trying to have a son before and when he finally has one, heins that his son can have too many children. I have to go and tell his son to have more children and tire him out."

    "Yes, yes, yes."

    "Donбпt rub salt on Old Luoбпs wounds. More than 20 mouths will wear him out. Letбпs talk about the recent news. Making money is our priority."

    Lin Jiang quickly changed the subject. Adult social interactions are not that simple. They all have a purpose. Lin Jiang associates with these people to obtain more information in order to earn resources and benefits.

    "The biggest newstely is the wedding between the chief of the Shenmu Sect, Duanmu Ling, and the saintess of the Spiritual Moon Sect. It is said that the Shenmu Sect has offered a Five Layered Divine Fruit as a dowry to marry the saintess of the Spiritual Moon Sect."

    "The Five Layered Divine Fruit, isnбпt that the divine item that can help the Nascent Soul advance to Soul Changing stage? The Shenmu Sect suffered a big loss."

    "Thatбпs not necessarily true. The Shenmu Sect wouldnбпt make a bad deal. We donбпt know the specific reasons."

    "Speaking of the current saintess of the Lunar Spirit Sectбн"

    As the topic emerged, everyone became interested. The Shenmu Sectбпs sacred tree, located at the top of the 10,000-meter-high tree crown in the shape of a pyramid, is divided into nineyers. Eachyer bears fruit. The higher the level, the fewer the quantity. The Five Layered Divine Fruit can be used as the main medicine for advancing to the Soul Changing stage, it is extremely precious. It is a treasure that all cultivators in Shenmu City dream of.

    Lin Jiang has been in Shenmu City for over a year and has long known about this. He also knows that the Shenmu Sect asionally sells some of these divine fruits. Lin Jiang has coveted them for a long time. If he could obtain one, even if itбпs a three or fouryered divine fruit, it would be very beneficial to him. Perhaps he could refine it into a treasure for forming his infant.

    Although Lin Jiang already has a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit from the Five Elements Sect, he knows his aptitude. One pellet is probably not enough for him. Now that he heard about the divine fruits, he immediately became enthusiastic and pulled a few people to gather information. These few people have been in Shenmu City for many years, and in terms of connections, they are much stronger than him.

 Chapter 214:

    Chapter 214:

    Chapter 214: Formation Spirit Yuquan Mountain, outside Jingdu City in the Heavenly Wall Divine Kingdom. Yuquan Mountain is the ancestral home of the Li family, the foundation of the Divine Kingdom. It is guarded by dedicated personnel and no one is allowed to approach within several hundred miles. At this moment, two people were engaged in a fierce battle. One with a sword, the other with a spear. Each move they made was powerful enough to shatter rocks and copse mountains. б░Boomб▒ After hundreds of moves, Lin Batian, holding a spear, was defeated and sent flying by the personбпs sword for hundreds of meters, falling down from a cliff. Just as the person with the sword was about to chase after him, dozens of chains suddenly appeared, trapping his hands and feet. б░Li Yuncheng, you fool, you actually believed Lin Batianбпs nonsense.б▒ Chen Zheng, holding the sword, broke free from the chains on his body and angrily cursed at the sky. He had battled with Lin Batian for over ten years, not knowing how many times he could have killed Lin Batian, but every time, the Formation Spirit intervened and helped Lin Batian escape. б░Boomбнб▒ In response from the sky, dozens of lightning bolts struck down. Chen Zhengбпs face changed drastically as he swung his sword to shatter the lightning, then fled. After striking dozens of times, the lightning stopped. Down below the cliff, Lin Batian struggled to stand up. He opened his storage bag with what little spiritual power he had left and took out some medicine pills to heal his injuries. б░Damn it, Chen Zheng, that old ghost is really rich. Iбпm almost out of medicine pills and spirit stones.б▒ Lin Batian looked at the nearly empty storage bag of medicine pills and spirit stones, feeling somewhat unhappy. Over the past ten years, he had fought against Chen Zheng in hundreds of battles, requiring a terrifying amount of spiritual power. However, the Divine Kingdom couldnбпt absorb spiritual power and they couldnбпt find any recements. They relied solely on the umtion in their storage bags. Even though he had prepared in advance, they were about to run out. And today, when he faced Chen Zheng, he noticed that Chen Zhengбпs spiritual power was still strong. He realized thatpared to Chen Zheng, he might not be a match. б░Li Yuncheng,e out and meet me.б▒ Then Lin Batian looked up and shouted loudly. Soon, a ray of light descended from the sky and transformed into a human figure in front of Lin Batian. б░Whatбпs the matter?б▒ б░Iбпve run out of spirit stones and pills. Give me some.б▒ б░Hehe.б▒ б░Donбпt force me to dig up this Yuquan Mountain. I know that Yuquan Mountain used to be a high-level spiritual mountainбнб▒ б░Youбпre asking for trouble.б▒ б░Haha, just kidding, just kidding. I mean, Li Yuncheng, canбпt you just directly defeat Chen Zheng? With your Dutian Formationbining dozens of great arrays, it shouldnбпt be difficult to kill him, right?б▒ б░Canбпt do it.б▒ Formation Spirit Li Yuncheng shook his head. In reality, he could do it, but it woulde at a heavy cost if he wanted to forcefully suppress a powerful Tao Achieving being. There are still many Divine Kingdom cultivators now, so he couldnбпt possibly do it. б░Ah, it would be difficult to wear him down if he canбпt do it. You are also unwilling to use the power of the Li family, although they are weak, it would be good to consume a bit of his spiritual energy.б▒ б░The Li familyбпs descendants are not your cannon fodder.б▒ б░I didnбпt treat them as cannon fodder.б▒ б░Stop wasting words and kill him quickly. Iбпll let you leave.б▒ б░Iбпm injured. I need time to heal.б▒ б░Youбнб▒ Li Yunchengбпs expression became unpleasant. He now agreed with Chen Zhengбпs words. How could he believe Lin Batianбпs nonsense and choose to help Lin Batian instead of helping Chen Zheng? If he had helped Chen Zheng, they would have already killed Lin Batian a long time ago. б░Donбпt be mad, next time I will definitely defeat him. He doesnбпt have much spirit stone medicine left, without spiritual power, what can a Tao Achieving expert do? Canбпt stop me with just one spear.б▒ б░Go away.б▒ Li Yuncheng was angry, he exploded directly, the colorful light returned to the sky, disappearing without a trace. б░Youбпre so stingy.б▒ Lin Batian muttered, then tidied up and quietly slipped down from Yuquan Mountain. In a mansion at the foot of the mountain, Lin Batian met Lin Jiang who had been waiting here for a long time. Lin Jiang found Lin Batian in Jingdu City in his second year and they have already met dozens of times. б░Master of the house.б▒ б░Remember to call me grandfather next time, donбпt disrespect your elders.б▒ б░You still couldnбпt kill Chen Zheng this time?б▒ Lin Jiang didnбпt dare to reveal his true identity, despite everything. б░No, that old man is wealthy and powerful. How are things going for you?б▒ б░Everything is nned. Numerous forces, both loyal and rebellious, are on the brink of chaos.б▒ б░Thatбпs good. Stick to the n. Donбпt worry about Formation Spirit; they wonбпt have time or energy to bother you. Just do whatever you want.б▒ б░Can I ask how you managed to make Formation Spirit believe in you?б▒ Lin Jiang was also curious about what charm Lin Batian had to make Formation Spirit trust him and help him against Chen Zheng. If it wasnбпt for their involvement with Formation Spirit, Lin Jiangбпs n in the Immortal Alliance wouldnбпt have gone so smoothly. б░With sincerity, you can win peopleбпs hearts.б▒ б░Thatбпs nonsense.б▒ б░Haha, donбпt worry about it. Chen Zheng is doomed, no one can save him now.б▒ б░Landlord, donбпt forget the four major families. Will they attack from outside?б▒ Lin Jiang said that inside the Divine Kingdom, he nned carefully, but outside the Divine Kingdom, there was a big uncertainty. б░If they canбпt break in, that guy Li Yuncheng isnбпt weak. If he were weak, he would have been killed already.б▒ б░Iбпm still worried.б▒ б░Donбпt worry, I have a backup n. Just do as I say.б▒ Lin Batian shook his hand, he had been nning this for many years, he wouldnбпt allow failure. Seeing this, Lin Jiang didnбпt say much. He had advised Lin Batian many times, but Lin Batian wasnбпt easily persuaded. Besides, killing Chen Zheng was also seeking revenge for the Five Elements Sect, so Lin Jiang didnбпt care so much. бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд Outside the Heavenly Wall, dozens of figures floated in mid-air. They formed a formation and transformed into a huge sword, shing towards the Heavenly Wall. The scary sword strike came down, and the Heavenly Wall created an illusion to catch the sword strike, disappearing without a trace. б░Stop!б▒ One person waved their hand, and everyone stopped. б░We canбпt break through. Li Yuncheng is using formation power to disperse our attacks underground. Itбпs like trying to break through thousands of miles of mountains and rivers. We need to negotiate instead.б▒ б░Iбпll go get Li Yuncheng.б▒ Another person said and then walked up, performed a spell, summoning Li Yuncheng. Li Yuncheng transformed and appeared in front of everyone. б░Li Yuncheng, how can we free Chen Zheng?б▒ б░Those who enter the Divine Kingdom die. This is a rule I set many years ago. Since you ignore my rules, you will pay the price.б▒ б░Li Yuncheng, donбпt you have any respect for the Li family and the four major ns?б▒ б░Ha ha, if we talk about the past, then we are enemies.б▒ Li Yuncheng sneered and said. When Li Familyбпs Divine Kingdom was attacked by the monster tribe, the human cultivators not only didnбпt help them, but betrayed the Li family. The four great ns also put in a lot of effort. We are still enemies, you know. б░Li Yuncheng, donбпt think that I canбпt do anything to you. If you really anger me, believe me, I can destroy you.б▒ б░Stop boasting. If you have the guts, take action. If weбпre going to die, weбпll take Chen Zheng with us. Go ahead and attack.б▒ б░Youбнб▒ б░Li Yuncheng, give us your conditions. Release Chen Zheng, and we will help you connect the spiritual veins. Without the spiritual veins, you will be weaker and weaker. You wonбпt be able to hold on.б▒ б░Ha ha.б▒ With a coldugh, Li Yuncheng disappeared right then and there, leaving the two of them furious. б░Brother Lu, how do we deal with Li Yuncheng? Heбпs impossible to handle.б▒ б░I donбпt know either. In the past, the Li family faced enemies and was betrayed by humans. Li Yuncheng, feeling disillusioned with humans, turned himself into a Formation Spirit. This clearly shows his stubborn personality. Itбпs difficult to persuade him.б▒ б░So we just have to watch Chen Zheng die, huh? The four major families are closely connected. Green Emperor Tombбнб▒ б░Letбпs stop talking.б▒ б░Yes.б▒ б░You continue attacking here. I can sense that Li Yuncheng is much weaker than before. Itбпs draining his power. Iбпll go find someone to refine an Eighth Order Breaking Formation Pearl. If this treasure can seed, breaking through this Dutian Formation will be a piece of cake.б▒ Lu Familyбпs ancestor said. The Dutian Formation is not invincible. Itбпs just that breaking it is too costly. Most of the forces in the cultivation world are unwilling to pay this price. After all, the Dutian Formation doesnбпt move from here. As long as we avoid it, there wonбпt be any loss of benefits. But now they canбпt just sit and watch anymore. Tao Achieving Ancestor is truly honorable, and there arenбпt many from the four major families. Losing even one is a huge loss. Compared to the price they pay, Tao Achieving Ancestor is more important.

 Chapter 220:

    Chapter 220:

    Chapter 220: Letбпs Be Friends Outside the Heavenly Wall Divine Kingdom. The four big families were still attacking, but suddenly they realized something was off. Just now, the Heavenly Wall cracked like ice hit by a stone, but now it was back to normal. The two Tao Achieving Ancestors stopped attacking. If there are no problems inside the Divine Kingdom, they still canбпt break through this weird formation. б░Or else, send someone in to investigate?б▒ б░Who should we send?б▒ The two of them discussed. Anyone who went into the Divine Kingdom never came out. Going in is just like going to their death. Who would dare to go in? б░Lin Rong, you go in and investigate.б▒ б░Ancestor, Iбнб▒ б░Whatбпs wrong? Our words donбпt count anymore?б▒ б░Ancestor, spare meбнб▒ б░Just take a look. Weбпll support you from outside, nothing will happen. Go quickly.б▒ Another elder named Tao Achieving Ancestor spoke up. Both of them gave orders at the same time, causing Lin Rong, whose Nascent Soul was named, to feel like crying. He hesitated for a moment until he saw the displeased expressions on their faces. Then, he clenched his teeth and flew towards the Heavenly Wall Divine Kingdom. In just a few breaths, Lin Rong disappeared from the awareness of everyone present. Someone contacted the Lin family, one of the four major families, and quickly received news that Lin Rongбпs Soul Lamp had extinguished. б░What should we do?б▒ б░I donбпt know either. Letбпs continue to find someone to refine the eighth-grade Breaking Array Pearl. Thatбпs the easiest method I know to break the formation.б▒ б░Letting Li Yuncheng go like this is really frustrating.б▒ б░What else can we do? The Iron ck Turtle is imprable. We can only suppress him for a hundred thousand years if we catch him.б▒ The two elders felt helpless. If Li Yuncheng were a cultivator, he would have died countless times already, even if he had achieved the Tao. But as a Formation Spirit, they truly didnбпt know how to deal with him. At least, not at this moment. Just as the two of them were discussing a retreat, leaving only a few people to watch, Lin Rongбпs body was brought out. Of course, everything had been stripped from him. б░Someone asked me to deliver a message to you: the vendetta wonбпt end until death.б▒ Li Yuncheng appeared, transformed into a body, and said to everyone. б░Did you team up with Lin Batian?б▒ б░The message has been delivered, you can continue now.б▒ б░The day of breaking the formation will be the day of the Li familyбпs extinction.б▒ б░Ha haб▒ Li Yuncheng had a calm expression, then quickly disappeared. Everyone tried to threaten him with this, but he didnбпt care anymore. Back at the Heavenly Wall Divine Kingdom, Lin Batian was already distributing rewards. Lin Rongбпs appearance was timely, saving him a spirit stone and giving various resources to the members of the Immortal Alliance to help them recover their strength. б░Friend Zhou, donбпt be so serious. Weбпre still friends, and youбпll always have my supportбнб▒ Lin Batian showed great concern towards Zhou Huaiying, almost overflowing with a ttering smile. Who could have imagined that just two hours ago, they were about to have a big argument. б░That father of mine, his shamelessness is really infuriating!б▒ Lin Jiang looked at Lin Batian, who was being very friendly with Zhou Huaiying and a few Soul Changing members, and instantly felt disdainful. Why doesnбпt he have any grace? б░Taoist Friend Xiaoб▒ б░Hey, hey, Iбпm here, itбпs Friend Taoist Yiбнб▒ б░Hello, friend Taoist, Iбпm Xiao Yi. Letбпs be friends. If thereбпs anything, you can talk to me when weбпre outside.б▒ б░Brother Zhang, Brother Zhang, itбпs Xiao Yi here. Leave me your address so we can meet up for tea in the future.б▒ б░Wow, Brother Chen, you look even more handsome with the spiritual energy restored. Remember toбн б▒ бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд б░Why havenбпt you left yet?б▒ Outside Jingdu City, Lin Jiang and Lin Batian watched as Zhou Huaiying and others left the Heavenly Wall Divine Kingdom. Lin Batian turned to Lin Jiang and asked. б░I came here to find you, what do you say?б▒ б░Isnбпt everything alright now?б▒ б░I am willing to stay, whatбпs the problem?б▒ б░Why do you talk without respect, no manners?б▒ б░Working with you is frustrating, everything is vague and unclear. I donбпt even know half of the n.б▒ Lin Jiang didnбпt pay much attention. He knew Lin Batian was in a good mood now, but he wasnбпt. Throughout this battle, he cooperated, not to mention having the initiative, he didnбпt even know the overall n. He felt like a puppet, cooperating with Lin Batian, which made him very unhappy. б░Your strength is not enough, even if you know, what difference does it make?б▒ б░Tell me, how did you persuade Li Yuncheng, and how did you understand Zhou Huaiying without speaking?б▒ б░Didnбпt I say before, I am the most sincere person, so they like to be friends with me.б▒ б░I believed your trick, you are a really bad old man.б▒ б░Haha, you little rabbit, be more careful in your actions from now on.б▒ Lin Batianughed loudly, his own grandson, he wouldnбпt hit him, otherwise, he would be idle, so he might as well give him a beating first. б░How are you going to handle the Divine Kingdomбпs matter?б▒ б░It depends on my mood, if you fancy any beauties, feel free to take them away and expand the Lin family for me.б▒ б░Give me a few days to handle it.б▒ б░Anyway, just donбпt bother me, I have something to attend to and need to leave for a while.б▒ Lin Batian waved his hand and then disappeared without a trace, Lin Jiang shook his head and flew back to Jingdu City. Many people died in Jingdu City, and the ground was filled with bones. The sound of wailing echoed through the air. The most important thing is that the leader of the Divine Kingdom almost died. The emperor was poisoned and killed by Jade Concubine. The interesting thing about this poison is that as long as you keep taking it, nothing happens. But if you stop, the poison will take effect. So Lin Jiang can control when the emperor will die. Most of the ministers and princes died, so the whole Jingdu City is now in chaos. Lin Jiang looked around and found a surviving prince. He was an unpopr prince who didnбпt have much presence, so he survived. Lin Jiang grabbed him and flew to the pce. Facing the remaining people, he said. This person will be your new emperor from now on. б░Listen, in the name of the emperor, gather your troops, stabilize the hearts of the people. There has been enough bloodshed and sacrifice.б▒ Lin Jiang said to the prince, after this battle, the poption of the Divine Kingdom has decreased by more than half. Countless people have died. Now that the situation is over, there is no need to continue sacrificing lives. б░Yes, yes, immortal.б▒ The prince was extremely frightened and could only nod in agreement, not daring to say anything else. Lin Jiang ignored him and went straight to the harem in the pce. Jade Concubine was hiding in the pce with a few pce maids and other concubines that Lin Jiang had sent in. When she saw Lin Jiangбпs arrival, she showed a happy smile. б░I greet the immortal.б▒ б░What do you n to do now that the Divine Kingdomбпs affairs are over?б▒ б░ording to the orders of the immortal, Yuбпer has avenged her enemies and feels no regrets.б▒ Jade Concubine looked at Lin Jiang with admiration in her eyes. Lin Jiang has been her teacher for many years, and she has long been convinced by him. б░You can no longer stay in the pce. You can choose to find a ce to live in seclusion. If you want to get married, I will help you find a good husband.б▒ б░Yuбпer is willing to serve by the side of the immortal.б▒ б░Being a cultivator is very dangerous and not suitable.б▒ б░Yuбпer is not afraid. As long as the immortal doesnбпt mind Yuбпerбпs humble background.б▒ Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang suddenly felt a headache. Although he is straightforward, he is not as stubborn as steel. That look in Jade Concubineбпs eyes was simply unbearable. Lin Jiang doesnбпt have any qualms about her humble background. Lin Jiang is not that traditional. Itбпs just that a cultivator and an ordinary person are not quitepatible. Lin Jiang actually wants to match her with Xiao Changkong, the leader of the uprising. This person is the one Lin Jiang values the most in Changhe County and can be considered as a half-disciple. б░Fairy Chiefбнб▒ Seeing Lin Jiang remain silent, Jade Concubineбпs tears began to fall, looking miserable. б░Stop crying, I taught you better than this.б▒ б░Yuer, Yuerбнб▒ б░So itбпs showing true feelings, huh?б▒ б░Hmmбнб▒ б░Alright, I will take you with me.б▒ Lin Jiang shook his head, feeling conflicted between being a hero and dealing with the beautiful yet scandalous Jade Concubine, whose beauty was beyond doubt in the eyes of thete Emperor Li Si. However, Lin Jiang still had to act like a scumbag and abandon her at the Lin family after leaving the Divine Kingdom. He needed to run away. Jade Concubine immediately smiled. She was really good at acting, crying when she needed to and deserving to be an award-winning actress. б░Enchanter, we are also willingбнб▒ When the other concubines heard this, they were all tempted. It seemed better to follow the Enchanter than to remain widows of a deceased emperor. However, before they could finish speaking, Jade Concubine shot them a nce that silenced them all. б░If any of you want to leave, you can go. You have worked hard all these years.б▒ Lin Jiang didnбпt care about that. He had treated these people personally and some had even died over the years. He had made sure they wouldnбпt have to worry about food and clothing in the future. Jade Concubineбпs face dropped and she became unhappy when she heard this. These few rebelled and they were no match for her in the Divine Kingdom. She had already defeated them in the pce struggles, and now they dared to fight again. She would show them who was in control.

 Chapter 236:

    Chapter 236:

    Chapter 236: Go to Yucheng City Bing State, Yucheng City In the cave that Lin Jiang just rented, another chaotic scene happened. Small Shadiao used magic to freeze himself and refused to leave. б░Small Shadiao,e with me. I will take you to eat delicious food.б▒ б░No eating.б▒ б░There are fun things outside.б▒ б░Not going.б▒ б░I will take you to drink alcohol. Donбпt you love drinking?б▒ б░No drinking.б▒ б░Little bird, as a person, no, as a bird, you shouldnбпt be so lonely. Look at me, your owner, I have lived for over three hundred years, and I am still all alone, without even a person who understands hot and cold. Itбпs so pitiful. Isnбпt it better to find apanion?б▒ б░I have apanion, I donбпt want this.б▒ б░What? When did this happen? Howe I didnбпt know?б▒ Small Shadiao immediately fell silent. Lin Jiang tapped his head and realized that he had been neglecting to discipline Small Shadiao and often let him go y in the Wilderness. That rascal must have found a birdpanion there, maybe even hatched some little birds. б░You little rascal, youбпre impressive. Sneaking around to find a mate and not telling me.б▒ б░Hmph.б▒ б░When can you bring it back for me to see?б▒ Lin Jiang chuckled and said, Small Shadiao rolled his eyes out of habit. He was called Shadiao but not an actual Shadiao. If he brought one back, could he take it away? Birdie, listen to big brother. Being a human and being a bird are the same. At home, one can have a wife, but outside, there can be colorful gs flying. As a man, ah, as a male bird, how can you have only one mate? You need to pass down your excellent genes, understand? That Golden Feather Carving has a lineage even more advanced than yours. Itбпs said to have the bloodline of a phoenix. Itбпs beautiful and handsome, with sleek and shiny feathers. A top-ss bird. You have to believe meбн б░I already have several friends.б▒ б░бдбдбдбдбдбдб▒ Lin Jiang felt a sudden shock. Was his Small Shadiao so incredible? Several friends? б░I wonбпt go, I absolutely wonбпt go. I canбпt let down my wives at home.б▒ б░Youбпre awesome!б▒ Lin Jiang gave him a thumbs up, impressed by his confidence. Youбпve got guts. Lin Jiang no longer held a grudge against Small Shadiao. He casually headed out. Lin Jiang and Yi Zhibai had been working together for many years. They had a business in Yucheng City withplex ownership, involving the Lin family, Five Elements Sect, Lin Jiang, and Yi Zhibai. They had to spend some money to maintain rtionships. Lin Jiang went to the shop, and a few stewards immediately greeted him and took him to the backyard to rest. Before long, Yi Zhibai also appeared. б░Xiao Yi, why are you the only one here? Where is your bird?б▒ б░My bird is with me.б▒ б░Donбпt y tricks on me. My senior brother is in a hurry.б▒ б░Hey, Yi, why are you in such a hurry? Just bring your senior brotherбпs pet beast to my ce for a few days, and when they get along well, everything will be fine.б▒ б░Can it really work like that?б▒ б░Isnбпt that what we do with arranged marriages?б▒ б░Your pet beast doesnбпt listen to you?б▒ б░The child has grown up, doesnбпt listen, we need to respect the childбпs wishes, right?б▒ Lin Jiang said. At first, I really wanted to set up Small Shadiao with someone because it was really sad that he had been following me for hundreds of years without apanion. But then I found out that this jerk already had multiple partners, so I decided to let fate decide. б░You are understanding and kind. Okay, I will go and talk to my senior brother. But please donбпt take away my senior brotherбпs beast pet.б▒ б░Joking, with my big family business here, are you afraid I will run away?б▒ б░Thatбпs true.б▒ Yi Zhibai nodded, Lin Jiang invested a lot of money in this, high-level spiritual jade is very expensive, without some capital, it is impossible to do this business, and it is not necessary to run away for a Tier 3 beast pet. б░Just bring the beast pet, Brother Yi.б▒ б░Xiao Yi, tell me honestly, why did youe this time?б▒ б░Itбпs just debts, debts of gratitude, you know.б▒ б░I understand, with Brother Xiaoбпs charm, these debts of gratitude are boundless.б▒ б░Almost.б▒ Lin Jiang didnбпt exin either, let the misunderstandings be, just donбпt drive him away. б░Brother Xiao has been living here, do you have any ideas to expand the business a little more?б▒ б░Is there a way for Brother Yi to get rich?б▒ б░Does Brother Xiao know what Pure Jade Sect produces the most?б▒ б░magical jadeб▒ б░Thatбпs right, Brother Xiao, have you been to the magical jade mine?б▒ б░No, I havenбпt.б▒ Lin Jiang shook his head, but he already knew what Yi Zhibai wanted to do. The magical jade mine is simr to the Spiritual Stone Mine, but when the magical jade is dug out, it is various stones with a special filmyer. Thisyer can block the exploration of divine consciousness. The higher the level of magical jade, the more powerful the filmyer is. Most treasures in the cultivation world that can shield divine consciousness require this filmyer. And someone discovered something even more interesting иC gambling with jade. They dig out a piece of raw stone without cutting it and let cultivators gamble to see its value. This kind of thing is very popr in the territory of Pure Jade Sect. They test the value geometrically without cutting the raw stone. This practice is extremely prevalent in Pure Jade Sect б░Being poor with one cut, bing rich with one cut, right?б▒ б░It seems that Brother Xiao has also heard about it.б▒ б░This thing is all over Yucheng City, how could I not know?б▒ б░So, does Brother Xiao have any interest in ying?б▒ б░I, Xiao Yi, swear to never associate with gambling and drugs.б▒ б░Itбпs fine if you donбпt want to y, but how about starting a business? I recently contacted a few people and have a channel, but Ick funds. If Brother Xiao is willing to invest, I can give you 20% of the shares. Donбпt underestimate this 20%, it can make ten or a hundred times more money than these shops.б▒ б░Not interested.б▒ б░Brother Xiao, think carefully. Golden core is not your limit. Breaking through Nascent Soul requires a lot of money, and it gets even more expensive at Nascent Soul. To break through Soul Changing, Void Achieving, and Tao Achieving, you need wealth.б▒ Yi Zhibai said. Opening this kind of business would require countless spirit stones, guaranteeing your path to immortality. б░Brother Yi, let me put it straight, I have run out of money. Despite earning quite a lot here, you know Iбпm just a worker and I still have a big family to support.б▒ б░Isnбпt Brother Xiao all alone?б▒ б░The expenses of that bird at home are two or three times what I have. Besides, I donбпt have a wife or children, so I donбпt have any other rtives, right?б▒ б░Well, thatбпs true. Brother Xiao should think it over carefully. Thereбпs no rush.б▒ б░Yes, no rush. Letбпs have some tea.б▒ Lin Jiang smiled and said no more about it. The topic quickly changed. Yi Zhibai didnбпt stay long. Lin Jiang saw him off. As for what Yi Zhibai said, Lin Jiang would never consider it. It had nothing to do with morality; it was simply because as an outsider, he couldnбпt handle such a situation. If he doesnбпt make money and suffers losses, thatбпs his own problem. If he does make money, the first thing to consider is the issue of illegal activities. Heбпs not a naive young man who would fall for that. бдбдбдбдбдбд The Golden Feather Carving from the Pure Jade Sect arrived. It couldnбпt transform, so it looked very big. Its golden feathers were very beautiful. When it saw Small Shadiao, its eyes lit up. It wanted to get closer and be affectionate, but then Small Shadiao beat it up. б░Big brother, big brother, help!б▒ The Golden Feather Carving quickly asked for help, and Lin Jiang came forward to grab Small Shadiao. б░Small Shadiao, what are you doing? Is this how you treat guests?б▒ б░Are you betraying me?б▒ б░Betray you? What are you talking about?б▒ б░Youбнб▒ б░What боyouбп? Whatбпs wrong with me inviting disciples from the Pure Jade Sect as guests? Pay attention, they are legitimate Pure Jade Sect disciples.б▒ Lin Jiang pointed to the jade pendant on the neck of the Golden Feather Carving and said. It has been registered in the Pure Jade Sect and is a legitimate disciple who receives a sry. б░Master, I am Aurora falcon, it is a Golden Feather Carving, we are not the same.б▒ б░What is the difference? Arenбпt we all birds?б▒ б░Even sparrows are birds.б▒ б░So you have a liking for this.б▒ б░Ew, ew, ew, I would rather die thanply.б▒ б░Whatever you say.б▒ Lin Jiangughed loudly, the crossing of different species among mythical creatures was not umon, especially those of the fourth level and above, who could transform into human form and even lose reproductive istion. Seeing Lin Jiang acting stubbornly, Small Shadiao stomped her feet in anger and ran out of the door directly. Although Golden Feather Carving wanted to follow, it was clear that she couldnбпt keep up and was soon left behind, ultimately returning back. Golden Feather Carving was highly intelligent. She started sobbing and whimpering towards Lin Jiang, truly resembling a little girl. Lin Jiang was also at a loss, as there was nothing he could do to help. Lin Jiang quickly ran away, fearing that Golden Feather Carving would ask for his help and cause trouble for him. Lin Jiang nned to stay in Yucheng City for a long time. Yucheng City is a famous city in Bing State, known for its wealth. Therefore, Lin Jiang nned to invest some assets here. Lin Jiang also considered finding a remote corner to hide for thousands or even tens of thousands of years, but this idea quickly vanished. Besides the issue of his own mental state, it would be impossible to solve the problem of resources in such a ce. This idea was very naive. б░Yucheng City is the territory of Pure Jade Sect. Although Lin Jiang has a connection with Yi Zhibai, who is not a high-ranking member of Pure Jade Sect, at best he is a mid-level member. Moreover, Yi Zhibai now wants to get into the jade gambling business, which is unreliable. Even if Lin Jiang wants to invest, it should not involve heavy assets. Just some light assets would be enough.б▒ After careful consideration, Lin Jiang still didnбпt dare to risk all his fortune. At most, he would invest in some light assets. If he can make money, thatбпs good. If something goes wrong, it wouldnбпt be a big loss. It could be seen as a spice in life.

 Chapter 240:

    Chapter 240:

    Zhongzhou, Shenmu City

    Xiao Lingyue and Duanmu Ling were walking in Shenmu City. They were already engaged, and this news spread throughout the entire region. Both the Shenmu Sect and the Spiritual Moon Sect agreed wholeheartedly to this marriage.

    Their engagement not only benefited both parties in practical terms, but also deepened their alliance. You see, the Central Region is located in the human territory, with no Wilderness around to gain benefits from hunting. Therefore, thepetition among internal forces is quite fierce. It is normal in the history of the Central Region for major sects to weaken and smaller ones to rise.

    Even the Shenmu Sect, with the protection of the divine tree, has experienced several periods of decline in its history, almost reaching the point of extinction. It was by relying on that divine tree that they turned the tide. However, the divine tree will not protect them forever. The Shenmu Sect itself needs to strive for continuous self-improvement.

    Once the higher-ups of both sects agree, the opinions of the two individuals be insignificant. After all, for the sect, disciples having their basic needs provided for by the sect is a given. Now that the sect demands their contributions, if you say you canбпt do it, the sect wonбпt care.

    "Yueбпer, the major tradingpanies of Shenmu City are all located in the central area of the city. Going further ahead, you will find smaller shops. Thereбпs no need to go any further."

    Seeing that Xiao Lingyue wanted to continue walking forward, Duanmu Ling spoke up.

    In most cities of the cultivation world, theyout is quite simr. First, a t terrain is selected, and they try to make it into a rectangr shape to facilitate the arrangement of formations. The overall internalyout is also generally the same. The central part is usually where the major tradingpanies are, and as you go towards the city walls, the scale of thepanies bes smaller, basically turning into residential areas.

    Both of them had already reached the Nascent Soul stage, so only the major tradingpanies could meet their needs. The things in the smaller shops couldnбпt catch their Magical Eye."Senior Duигnmи┤, going shopping doesnбпt always have to be for spiritual resources, it can also be for leisure. Even though the shops in the small streets may not have anything great, they still have a lively atmosphere."

    "Fireworks smell?"

    "Yes, fireworks smell, the scent of the mortal world, it soothes the hearts of ordinary people."

    Xiao Lingyue nodded. She was different from Duanmu Ling. Duanmu Ling was born into a prestigious family. His family had great power in the Shenmu Sect. He grew up in luxury. On the other hand, her parents were just independent cultivators. During her childhood, she followed her parents in the market, struggling to make a living. Xiao Lingyue had deep emotions for everything in the lower ss.

    "Alright, whatever Yueбпer says."

    Duanmu Ling nodded. He couldnбпt understand how the scent of fireworks could soothe someoneбпs heart. But since Xiao Lingyue liked it, he would apany her. They werenбпt married yet, so it wouldnбпt hurt to please his fiancee a little.

    Xiao Lingyue and Duanmu Ling entered the Jiedao. Various aromas drifted towards them. Xiao Lingyue smiled. She liked all kinds of street snacks, even the smallest things. Her parents were busy with their livelihoods, often giving her a spiritual bead and letting her find something to eat on her own. Xiao Lingyue had tried every snack in her city.

    Duanmu Ling saw the change in Xiao Lingyueбпs expression and naturally knew what to do. Whenever Xiao Lingyueбпs gaze lingered a little longer, he would buy some for her to taste.

    Xiao Lingyue was happier with Duanmu Lingбпs behavior. At least her fiancиж was considerate and not a blockhead.

    Cultivators had no fear of getting fat. The two of them ate from one end of the street to the other, and then from the other end back to the first,menting on the merits and ws of each food stall.

    "Wow, dumplings!"

    Xiao Lingyue arrived at the third street, feeling very happy. She smelled the delicious aroma of dumplings and immediately eximed. This was her favorite food.

    "Come, letбпs buy some."

    Duanmu Ling smiled and thought to himself. It only took them a little over ten spirit stones after walking two streets. For the beautyбпs smile, this is nothing.

    "Boss, give me a basket of dumplings."

    Duanmu Ling walked up to the busy boss and said.

    "Sorry, valued customer. All the dumplings have been reserved by this gentleman. Youбпll have to wait a little while for me to steam some fresh ones."

    The stall owner of the dumpling stand apologized with a sad expression. Duanmu Ling turned around and saw arge man sitting at the stall. He was tall and muscr, and his clothes seemed like they were about to burst from the muscles underneath. There were already several empty dumpling baskets on the table.

    "Boss, please help us out and let us cut in line. We only need two baskets."

    Duanmu Ling took out two special stones. The boss hesitated for a moment but agreed in the end. He gave a lot, Duanmu Ling only gave him a few buns.

    "Boss, what about the buns? Iбпm not full."

    The big man quickly finished the buns in his hand and spoke to the boss.

    "Excuse me, boss. I am steaming them right now. If you have any needs, I can deliver them to your shop in a while?"

    "No need, just bring me some steamed buns and two bowls of soup."

    The big man shook his head, this wouldnбпt work. If he brought them back to the shop, someone might steal his food again. He bought those with his hard-earned money, he definitely wouldnбпt give them away.

    The big man quickly ate two baskets of steamed buns and drank two big bowls of soup, then he leisurely walked away.

    "Boss, it seems like he didnбпt pay."

    "That person is a valued customer, hees every day. We settle the bill at the end of the month."

    "Oh, I see. Does the boss know what he does?"

    "Thereбпs a small shop called the Xiao family on the street next door. They sell special charms. The owner is the bossбпs cousin. Heбпs not very bright, though. He earns some money but spends it all on food and drinks instead of saving it to buy resources for spiritual practice."

    "Thank you, boss!"

    Xiao Lingyue smiled and then said to Duanmu Ling, "Come on, letбпs go take a look."

    "Yueбпer, heбпs just a silly big guy. What are you looking at?"

    "Youбпll find out when senior brotheres back."

    Xiao Lingyue shook her head without giving a reason. Her nose is very sensitive and she smelled something different.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Cousin, Iбпm back!"

    Small Shadiao went back to the store and shouted out loudly. In no time, Lin Jiang walked in through the door.

    "Youбпve done a good job with the ent today, haha!"

    Lin Jiangughed out loudly and said. It wasnбпt in vain that I taught Small Shadiao for half a month. Heбпs starting to sound a bit like it, but too bad heбпs not a girl.

    "Whatбпs wrong?"

    Small Shadiao rolled his eyes. His owner was bing more and more entric. He made him learn seven or eight different ents, who knows what heбпll make him do in the future.

    "Oh no, Small Shadiao, why do we only have steamed buns today? No dumplings?"

    "All gone."

    "Did you eat them all?"

    "Yes."

    "Youбпre such a food lover, just one person and youбпre able to support a whole store."

    Lin Jiang cursed out loud, he didnбпt like steamed buns, tasteless, buns were much tastier.

    "*Ding*"

    Just as Lin Jiang took a couple of bites of the steamed bun, there was a crisp sounding from the shopбпs entrance, indicating that a customer had arrived. Lin Jiang looked up and was immediately surprised.

    "Small Shadiao can support a shop on her own, this beauty must be able to run a brothel on her own."

    Lin Jiang looked at the woman in front of him and thought to himself, although she had slightly altered her appearance, she couldnбпt fool this experienced person.

    "What do the customers want to buy? We have second-tierplete series of spiritual talismans here, and seven different types of third-tier lower-grade spiritual talismans."

    Small Shadiao was quite dedicated and managed to force a smile as she spoke.

    Half of the spiritual talismans in Lin Jiangбпs shop were drawn by him personally, but there were also a few coborative Talisman Makers who could provide second-tier spiritual talismans. Lin Jiang didnбпt want anything lower than second-tier. Thatбпs why Lin Jiangбпs shop has gained some reputation and is considered a high-quality boutique.

    "Can I ask where the boss is?"

    "Brother Guo, someone is looking for you."

    Small Shadiao pointed at Lin Jiang, who wiped his hands on his clothes and stood up with a big smile.

    "Dear guests, how may we serve you?"

    "How much to buy your employee?"

    "Dear guest, if you want to buy a servant, you need to go to Yueyang Tower. They have servants of all heights and sizes."

    "Show some respect."

    Duanmu Lingбпs face darkened as soon as he heard that. Shenmu City was open-minded, with separate ces for both men and women to y. Yueyang Tower was a famous ce for female cultivators to y.

    "How am I not showing respect? When I opened my spiritual talisman shop, you guys immediately asked to buy my employee. It seems like youбпre the ones not showing respect to me, right?"

    "Youбн"

    "Boss, I apologize for being impatient and not exining clearly. I am here with sincerity. How about this, I offer five million spirit stones and one hundred top-quality Yuanye Pills, along with a Supreme Soul Pill and a piece of Frozen ze Stone. The total value exceeds ten million spirit stones. What do you think?"

    Xiao Lingyue said to Lin Jiang, and Duanmu Ling, who was standing beside him, was shocked. He immediately used his Magical Eye to look at Small Shadiao. But Lin Jiang was faster than him, with a thought, a formation instantly formed in the shop, enclosing Small Shadiao and blocking Duanmu Lingбпs investigation.

    "You all certainlyck some manners."

    Lin Jiang said to Duanmu Ling, publicly casting spells to observe someoneбпs strength is very impolite. Itбпs normal to start a fight on the spot if the other person has a bad temper.

    "I apologize on his behalf."

    "Yueбпer, I am the chief of the Shenmu Sect Nascent Soul, and this is our territory. If there are any suspicious peopleбн"

    "Senior brother, please stop."

    Xiao Lingyue immediately shouted, feeling that Duanmu Ling was being arrogant.

    "Boss, how do you like my suggestion?"

    "No matter what, your smell of copper is not strong enough."

    Lin Jiang calmly said. Just with a mere million spirit stones, you think you can buy Small Shadiao? What a joke! Not even enough to cover Small Shadiaoбпs meal expenses.

 Chapter 241:

    Chapter 241:

    Zhongzhou, Shenmu City

    Lin Jiang already knew who the man in front of him was. He called himself the Chief of Shenmu Sectбпs Nascent Soul stage, which is a bit different from Yun State. They like rankings and have the Chief of Building Foundation Period, Golden Core Period, and Nascent Soul stage.

    The so-called Chief is the eldest senior brother, but itбпs not based on seniority or time of entry. Itбпs based on potential, like age, cultivation level, aptitude, andprehension ability, among other things. Of course, thereбпs a little bit ofworking background involved too.

    Once you be the Chief, life bes amazing. There are no sect missions to worry about, the treatment is the best, and the sect will do everything to help you break through. The Chief gets first priority when ites to all the good stuff.

    Just recently, Lin Jiang found out about him through a few friends. He didnбпt expect to meet him here. Itбпs really a stroke of luck.

    "If Taoist friend is not satisfied with the price, thatбпs normal. I wonder how Taoist friend can sell it then?"

    "What should I call you?"

    Lin Jiang turned around and said to Small Shadiao.

    "Pot""Did you hear that? He called me боcousinбп, heбпs like a brother to me."

    "Excuse me"

    As soon as Xiao Lingyue heard this, he showed a sorry expression and didnбпt say much. He turned around and walked away, with Duanmu Ling following him immediately.

    "Thatбпs not fair. Listen, if you want me to say it, you have to raise the price. If you raise the price, Iбпll sell it."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes and thought to himself, this girl definitely hasnбпt seen a movie, otherwise why wouldnбпt she charge more?

    "Why did youe out? How did you provoke them? Did you bring the jade talisman?"

    "I did. Iбпve been wearing it around my neck. I didnбпt provoke anyone."

    Small Shadiao took out the jade talisman from his neck. This is what he used to conceal his aura. Itбпs even valuable enough to hide his cultivation level.

    "Hehe, Iбпll deduct half a yearбпs wages from you."

    "I didnбпt provoke anyone, I just want to have breakfast."

    Little Shadiao got anxious, why did he lose half a yearбпs wages just for having breakfast?

    "You dare to talk back? Deduct a whole year."

    "You are bullying too much."

    "No, you are not a person, you are a bird."

    "Bullying birds too much."

    "So what if I bully you?"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Small Shadiao wanted to cry but couldnбпt, he wanted to change owners.

    Lin Jiangughed out loud, and after Lin Jiang left, Small Shadiao thought to himself, "So you want to deduct my sry? Well, I wonбпt feel guilty for taking your spiritual talisman. Hmph, I never lose out."

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Yueбпer, what was that thing the small shop just sold? Was it a spiritual beast?"

    "Yes, itбпs a fourth-rank beast pet that can transform."

    "A fourth-rank beast pet? The shop owner is only at the golden core stage."

    "Senior brother, there are countless talented individuals in the world, not just within sects. Donбпt underestimate others."

    "Yueбпer, if you need a beast pet, I can help find a solution. My Shenmu Sect also has people who raise beast pets."

    "I want a flying type of beast pet, one that is fast. In a few years, I might explore some secret realms."

    Xiao Lingyue shook her head. She already had a flying creature as a pet, but it was not powerful enough at level three. She needed a level four beast pet, so that she could have a higher chance of sess in the secret realm.

    "Your problem is my problem, I will find a solution for you."

    Duanmu Ling remained silent for a moment, then said. The Shenmu Sect doesnбпt have any level four flying beast pets. They do have fierce battle beasts, but since my fiancижe needs a flying one, I canбпt just stand by and donбпthing.

    The two of them lost interest in shopping and quickly returned to their respective homes. Duanmu Ling called upon the guardian of Shenmu City, Nascent Soul, and informed him of the location of the spiritual talisman shop, asking Nascent Soul to gather the information.

    In just two days, Nascent Soul handed over the information to Duanmu Ling. Duanmu Ling nced at it and frowned.

    "A mysterious person who has only been in Shenmu City for less than two years."

    Duanmu Ling thought to himself, this would be difficult. It would be fine if it was someone familiar, but itбпs not easy to deal with someone of mysterious origins. If he identally offended a big shot, it wouldnбпt be fun.

    "First, show courtesy, then use force. For Yueбпer, and for myself."

    After hesitating for a moment, Duanmu Ling ultimately decided to go and take a look. He knew about Xiao Lingyueбпs n to go to the secret realm, and if things went well, there would be great benefits. It could even help him break through to Soul Changing before their wedding, which would ultimately benefit him as well.

    After a few more days, Xiao Lingyue, who had been idle for a few days, decided to seclude himself. This gave Duanmu Ling an opportunity, and he once again went to the small shop of spiritual talisman. However, he found that the shop was closed. After asking other shop owners, he learned that the owner had closed the shop after they hade, saying that he went to visit rtives.

    At the same time, on the other end of Shenmu City, a new spiritual talisman shop quietly opened, without any fanfare.

    "Isnбпt this great? He looks even cooler than me!"

    Lin Jiang took out a mirror for Small Shadiao. The day Duanmu Ling and that woman left, Lin Jiang posted a notice that he had transferred the shop.

    However, he didnбпt n to leave Shenmu City. He had already traveled to many ces and didnбпt want to continue running. Besides, Shenmu City was so big, with a poption of millions. He didnбпt believe he would be so unlucky to encounter Duanmu Ling and them again.

    Of course, as a precaution, Lin Jiang decided to disguise himself and also gave Small Shadiao a disguise. He also made him shrink his figure, not being so conspicuous with his muscr body.

    "Ugly."

    Small Shadiao was very dissatisfied with his current appearance. His bulging muscles were gone, and he looked weak and fragile, like a woman.

    "Tch, youбпre still ugly. Go to Yueyang Tower, at least youбпll be a top performer."

    "Ugly"

    "Okay, okay, let me be ugly. Just donбпt ruin the disguise. Those people before were trying to catch you and use me for their ns."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    "Really, youбпre worth a lot now. I canбпt sell you for this much money."

    "Ugly human"

    Small Shadiao gritted his teeth. He believed it. If it wasnбпt for being attracted to his body, why would he spend so much money to buy him?

    "Should I contact those few friends from before?"

    Lin Jiang looked at his struggling business. The previous shop had finally started to improve a little, but he didnбпt expect such a thing to happen again.

    "Forget it, letбпs break cleanly."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, they werenбпt true friends to confide in, he just used them to get some information, and he could easily make new friendster.

    In the months that followed, Lin Jiang returned to his previous life, drawing symbols every day, practicing his skills, asionally visiting nearby shopkeepers and chatting over tea, discussing any news from the outside world, and seeing if there were any opportunities for profit.

    Although his days were ordinary, they were extremely fulfilling. He kept busy all day long, with only a rest period every ten days or so to visit a little fairy in the city, to have a heart-to-heart talk and provide some assistance to the struggling little fairy.

    Lin Jiang learned from his past experience, Small Shadiao was no longer his cousin, now he is his son, and he also changed his name to Lin Yi.

    "Son, donбпt always go out to buy food. It might all be technology and tricks. Cook at home, understand?"

    Lin Jiang was very displeased when he saw buns again. Small Shadiao didnбпt know what was going on, he really liked buns, but Lin Jiang didnбпt like them. Who could bear eating buns every day?

    "Hmph, you go to the Spring Night Tower to have fun, leaving me locked in the house. Having buns to eat would be good enough."

    "People find people, birds find birds, donбпt mix up your generationsбн no, mix up your species."

    "I can transform into a human."

    "Is that so? I canбпt grow wings, can you?"

    "Shameless"

    "Does anyone say such things about dad?"

    "Youбпre not my dad, youбпre not a bird"

    "Alright, alright, if youбпre not, then youбпre not. Remember to go out and buy groceries, I need to draw a charm, otherwise where will you go to be corrupt in the future?"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Small Shadiao was shocked, uh-oh, how did this matter get found out.

    Small Shadiao, feeling guilty, quickly slipped away.

    "What a silly bird"

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He could easily understand the ounts of the Five Elements Sect from the past few decades. Let alone this small shop, how could he not know about those small actions?

    Time flew by in Lin Jiangбпs ordinary life. In the blink of an eye, he had been living like this for twenty years, and now he was three hundred and eighty years old.

    In these twenty years, Lin Jiang had spent all his spirit stones. The expenses with Small Shadiao were too high, and the ie from the spiritual talisman shop was not enough.

    "Itбпs time to go back and get the money back."

    Looking at his almost empty storage bag, Lin Jiang knew it was time to go back. Over the years, he hadnбпt received anymission from his businesses. He had to go and ask for it.

 Chapter 242:

    Chapter 242:

    The residence of Bing State and the Lin family

    As Lin Jiang looked at the unfamiliar crowd, he suddenly felt confused. Where were the people? Where were Lin Batian, Lin Die, Lin Ying, and the Lin family?

    Could something have happened?

    Lin Jiang quickly asked the unfamiliar people, but they didnбпt know where the previous owner was. When they arrived here, it was already empty. They were just a group of independent farmers who took over thend when they saw it was ownerless.

    "It should be fine. They probably left. If the four major families found out, there would have been a fierce battle."

    Lin Jiang reassured himself and then headed to Yucheng City, which was under the Pure Jade Sect. When Lin Jiang left Yucheng City, he brought some Lin family descendants to help him manage his properties.

    But when Lin Jiang returned to Yucheng City, his spiritual jade business was gone. Lin Jiang didnбпt know what to say anymore.

    "Iбпve only been gone for over twenty years. How can it feel like itбпs been two hundred years? Everything has changed so much!"

    Lin Jiang almost burst out swearing. Twenty years may be a long time for ordinary people, but the people he dealt with now were either at the golden core stage or the nascent soul stage. Is twenty years really that long?Lin Jiang didnбпt give up and kept searching. Fortunately, his few restaurants were still there. They had even be a well-known old establishment in Yucheng City.

    "Uncle Xiao, is that you?"

    "Are you from the Lin family?"

    "Itбпs really my uncle, I am Lin Gongyun, a junior of the Gong family."

    "Where are the people from before?"

    Lin Jiang asked, he remembered that the people who came before were not from the Gong family, but from the Ding and Dong families.

    "The previous elders have all gone back."

    "Letбпs find a quiet ce to talk."

    "Yes, Uncle Xiao,e this way."

    Lin Gongyun led Lin Jiang into a private room, and Lin Jiang asked about the Lin familyбпs situation.

    "The family has moved again, itбпs been about seven or eight years. We havenбпt been able to contact Uncle Xiao, so the Third Ancestor asked me to stay here and wait for my uncle to return."

    "Why did you move? Where did you move to?"

    "I donбпt know why either, it was a sudden notice. As for where we will be moving to, Iбпll have someonee pick up Uncle Zhu."

    "You donбпt know either?"

    "Yes, I donбпt know. When I came to Yucheng City, the family hadnбпt moved yet. Later, I received news that the family had already moved away."

    "So what will happen to the profits of these shops over the years?"

    "Every year, someone wille and take them away."

    "What about the spiritual jade business?"

    "Itбпs gone, someone upied it."

    "Tell me more about it."

    About ten years ago, Senior Yi Zhibai was in seclusion trying to make a breakthrough in Soul Changing, but he failed and got seriously injured. He had only a breath left. Later, while he was in recovery, there was an incident at his gambling jade den. Their people werenбпt vignt and a master appeared, buying their raw stones at a low price and cutting out many exquisite gemstones. The den suffered huge losses, and afterwards his fellow disciples turned against him, demandingpensation. Senior Yi Zhibai couldnбпt afford it, so he had to use his properties to offset the debt. Even ours got upied by someone else.

    Later, the head of the family took action and managed to recover some losses. After that, we started our own new business, but without connections, we couldnбпt make it. We had to close in less than two years. Only a few restaurants were left, which didnбпt make much money. It was just a way to stay in Yucheng City.

    "I saw him building tall buildings, I saw him hosting guests, I saw his building copse."

    After Lin Jiang finished listening, he sighed. He knew from the beginning that what Yi Zhibai was doing was very risky, but he didnбпt expect things to go wrong so quickly. It had only been less than twenty years.

    "Yes, things change."

    "Whereбпs Yi Zhibai?"

    "I donбпt know. After Yi Zhibai got into trouble, I havenбпt received any news from him. Some say he died, some say he left. I donбпt really know the specifics."

    "Got it. You contact someone from the Lin family, Iбпll go elsewhere to take a look."

    Lin Jiang nodded and left shortly after.

    Lin Jiang went to Pure Jade Sect to find out information about Yi Zhibai. The people from Pure Jade Sect told Lin Jiang that Yi Zhibai had been traveling for many years and no one knew where he was, not even his descendants.

    "Will we be returning to the Divine Kingdom?"

    Lin Jiang secretly guessed that for Yi Zhibai, the Divine Kingdom was definitely a very important moment in his life, as he was a young talent who had achieved the breakthrough to Nascent Soul at a young age. However, he had spent many years wandering in the Divine Kingdom, wasting his youth.

    But Lin Jiang didnбпt have time to find Yi Zhibai anymore. As an adult, he had to walk through every stage of life on his own. He couldnбпt me others. All Lin Jiang could do was silently pray for Yi Zhibai in his heart.

    After staying in Yucheng City for half a month, the Lin family sent someone to visit. The person who came was Lin Die.

    "Where have you been all these years?"

    "Iбпve been hanging around in the central region."

    "Thatбпs outrageous!"

    "Yes, Third Auntie was right to scold me."

    Lin Jiang honestly epted the scolding. He didnбпt expect so many things to happen during this time away.

    "Auntie Three, what happened to the Lin family? Why did they move again?"

    "My dad acted too quickly, and some of the Lin family children were caught. To keep them safe, we had to move again."

    "How bad was the damage?"

    "It wasnбпt too bad for us, but the four major ns suffered a great loss. They donбпt have much power left, so theyбпll have to rely on themselves in the future."

    "Oh no, how did ite to this?"

    "The enemy is strong and we are weak, thatбпs just how it is. Our future is uncertain."

    Lin Die said. The Lin family has already been very fierce. Theyбпve struggled for so many years and still havenбпt been wiped out. If it were an ordinary enemy, they would have been defeated long ago.

    "Iбпll go back with Auntie Three and take a look."

    "Thatбпs a good idea. Go back and see. Your master has been looking for you many times, wondering how to exin things to you."

    "Ahem"

    "Whatбпs wrong, are you scared?"

    "Why be scared? The descendants of the Lin family are strong and reliable."

    "Donбпte looking for me for helpter."

    "Haha, Third Auntie, my good Third Auntie, that, umбн"

    "Go away, tone down your arrogance."

    Lin Die nced over, surprised that the kid dared to leave without saying anything. This time, he must face some consequences.

    Lin Jiang sighed bitterly, feeling helpless. He didnбпt expect so many things to happen after leaving this time, and he knew he was going to get scolded.

    As Lin Die and Lin Jiang left, the Lin familyбпs residence had already been relocated to a mountainous area on the outskirts of Zhongzhou. It was a remote area with weak spiritual veins, surrounded by cultivators at the Qi Refining and Building Foundation stages.

    "Third Auntie, is it just a few people left in the Lin family?"

    Lin Jiang looked at the Lin familyбпs residence. How did they have only around a hundred people left with so many casualties?

    "Of course not. This area is considered undesirable by the Central Province Sect. If there were too many people, it would draw too much attention. So only a few people were assigned here, and the others have their own arrangements."

    "Continuously causing trouble wonбпt allow for the cultivation of high-level cultivators. We must stabilize."

    "Whatбпs the point of saying that now when thereбпs no way out?"

    Lin Die replied. Lin Batian ispletely focused on revenge. He keeps on assassinating and provoking the four major ns. The four major ns keep sending people to find them, so they can only keep changing ces.

    "Itбпs my fault. Otherwise, Yucheng City could have been a base for the Lin family."

    "Itбпs not entirely your fault either. After you left Yucheng City, something big happened there. With your strength, it would have been difficult to survive at that time. Running away was actually the right choice."

    "Money can move peopleбпs hearts, but Yi Zhibai didnбпt listen to my advice. Itбпs a pity."

    "There is no right or wrong in this matter. Yi Zhibai has been wandering in the Divine Kingdom for many years, wasting his lifespan. He doesnбпt need to use such means to perform Soul Changing. He should have passed away by now. He has just failed, thatбпs all. If he seeded, he would have be the esteemed Soul Changing Ancestor of the Pure Jade Sect."

    "Thatбпs right, forget it. Iбпll go and see the head of the family first. What shoulde wille. Iбпm not afraid."

    Lin Jiang said. Now that Yi Zhibaiбпs matter hase to an end, I wonбпt bother with it anymore.

    "Greetings to the head of the family."

    Lin Batian stayed at home and didnбпt wander around. Lin Jiang went to pay his respects.

    "This kid can really run, itбпs been twenty or thirty years since hest ran."

    "Heбпs fine. He just has quick feet, thatбпs all."

    "Do you really think Iбпm praising you?"

    "I was wrong, I realize my mistake now."

    "You troublemaker who doesnбпt listen to reason, I really want to teach you a lesson."

    Lin Batian shook his head. Although Lin Jiang was a descendant of the Lin family, Lin Batian didnбпt feel indebted to them and didnбпt want to get involved. If it were someone who was actually raised by the Lin family, it would be fair to punish them like this.

    "I admit defeat, both in my heart and in words."

    "Stop pretending, I wonбпt do anything to you."

    "Youбпre too biased towards the Xie family."

    "Go away, donбпt bother me."

    "Yes."

    Lin Jiang obediently left, not daring to say anything else.

    "My dad wille over in a few days, I wonбпt say anything unnecessary."

    Zhang Shuhua was still working as an envoy at the Lin family. When he saw Lin Jiang, he didnбпt want to say much.

    "Have I be despised by people and hated like a dog?"

    "Donбпt think too much, at most itбпs just a punishment, nothing serious."

    "How has Senior Brother been these past years?"

    "Pretty good, I have time to cultivate."

    Zhang Shuhua said. Since he became an envoy for the Lin family, he hasnбпt had anything else to do. Instead, he has had time to practice in secret. He is already in the mid-stage of the Golden Core

    "How has the sect been in these years?"

    "Itбпs all been good, thriving and prosperous. I havenбпt been back for many years, so I donбпt know the specifics. But I guess your friends are probably doing well by now."

    "Life and death are predetermined."

    Lin Jiang nodded, Yue Qing and Yue Lin couldnбпt break through the golden core. They tried but failed. Thinking of time, Yue Lin is already over two hundred years old, and Yue Qing is also around two hundred. Even if they have money and bought longevity treasures, itбпs almost the end.

    "Dad, help me!"

    Lin Jiang was about to say something, when Small Shadiao rushed in, calling out "Dad," followed by Big Shadiao Lin Yu.

    "Brother!"

    When Big Shadiao saw Lin Jiang, he smiled happily.

    "Lin Yu, why are you bullying your little brother again?"

    "Little brother is not behaving, so he needs a beating."

    "Dad, help me! If you donбпt save me, Iбпll be beaten to death, and youбпll have no son!"

    "Um, Small Shadiao, when weбпre at the Lin familyбпs ce, you donбпt need to call me dad. Donбпt look at me like that, I told him to call me dad to deceive others."

    Lin Jiang saw that the expressions of everyone were not right and quickly exined.

    "You guys are really good at ying."

    Zhang Shuhua couldnбпt bear to look directly at his junior brother, itбпs unbelievable.

    "Brother, if my younger brother calls you dad, then I will call you dad too, dad."

    "Lin Yu, donбпt join in the fun."

    "Dadбн"

    "Shut up."

    Lin Ying, who came along, also had a puzzled expression. She had been with Big Shadiao all these years, and they referred to each other as sisters. Now that Big Shadiao called their father, what should she call him? Isnбпt this a mess?

    "Um, Lin Yu, remember to call me brother, Small Shadiao, in front of these people. If you call me dad again, Iбпll castrate you and make you unable to find a female bird."

    Lin Jiang kindly said to Big Shadiao, then turned around and angrily said to Small Shadiao. Small Shadiao held onto his precious belongings, his face full of fear, and quickly ran away. Life became boring for the birds. They were tricked by their owner when they were outside, and beaten by their sister at home. These were tough times for them.

 Chapter 243:

    Chapter 243:

    Lin familyбпs residence.

    Zhang Wanjing arrived not specifically to deal with Lin Jiang, but to discuss matters with Lin Batian. In recent years, Lin family has been having a hard time due to Lin Batianбп insistence on seeking revenge. Many of their young members have been injured or killed, and overall they have be weaker. The new recruits are not enough to make up for the losses.

    Therefore, Lin Batian has notified the three allied forces in Yun State, hoping that these allies will fully support them by sending troops to help Lin family in battle.

    "Friend Zhang, the Taoist"

    "Greetings to the Leader of Lin Family"

    "I wonder how your esteemed sectбпs discussion went"

    "Our Five Elements Sect, Zhonghang Sect, and Cloud Sword Sect have already discussed and we are willing to support Lin family in terms of resources. However, sending troops is absolutely not possible."

    "Friend Zhang, in these years our actions have been effective. Our Lin family has suffered heavy losses, but the losses of the four major families are worse. Now is the time for a struggle иC whoever canбпt hold on will lose. We canбпt give up halfway. The Yun State Three Sects are still under the threat of the four major families. It is in your interest to join forces with our Lin family in the battle."

    "Lin Family Leader, our Three Sects are different from your Lin family. We are not as resolute and decisive as you. We canбпt just move away. Our ancestral foundation is in Yun State. Once our identities are revealed, we wonбпt be able to withstand the attacks from the four major families."Zhang Wanjing said, Lin Batianбпs words sound nice, but he wonбпt agree. Over the past few decades, the Lin family has moved several times. They can easily give up their ancestral foundation, but we donбпt have the courage. Without a territory, what will happen to the tens of thousands of disciples of the Five Elements Sect?

    The sect must act in ordance with its own interests. This action would no longer be beneficial to them, so naturally he wonбпt agree. At most, he will provide some money to let the Lin family continue to fight against the four major families, as it is in the interest of the Five Elements Sect.

    "Is this the attitude of all of you in Yun State?"

    "Yes."

    "Is there no room for negotiation at all? I still have a lot of valuable things."

    "No matter how valuable the things may be, they are of no use. The Lin Family Leader doesnбпt need to waste his efforts."

    Zhang Wanjing said, if you have the fate to obtain something, you also need the fate to spend it. The vast Five Elements Sect wonбпt take this risk.

    "Thatбпs a real shame, Taoist Friend Zhang probably doesnбпt know, but the upper echelons of our four major families all possess secret techniques. My Lin family has the ying God Spear, the Chen family has the Three Clearances in One Breath, the Lu family has the Thousand Transformations, and the Yu family has the Three Heads and Six Arms. Letбпs see if you can learn them. I was even thinking of passing on my skills in Yun State."

    Upon hearing this, Zhang Wanjing was also shocked. He had no idea about this news, but upon reflection, it seemed possible. It appeared that someone from the Chen family had also used the Three Heads and Six Arms.

    Zhang Wanjing couldnбпt deny that he was tempted by these secret techniques. They were among the top-tier practices in the cultivation world. However, he remained reluctant and shook his head, refusing.

    Seeing that Zhang Wanjing couldnбпt be swayed by such benefits, Lin Batian let out a deep sigh. He couldnбпt offer anything better to entice him.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Disciple greets Master."

    "You still recognize me as your Master, huh? I thought you had be too proud and could defy your Master and destroy your ancestors."

    "How could I dare, Master?"

    "You dare not? I see that you have quite a daring spirit."

    Zhang Wanjing said with a cold face, showing his real anger. He hadnбпt received any news in over twenty years. If it werenбпt for the Soul Lamp of the sect still shining, he would have thought that Lin Jiang was no longer alive.

    "Master, disciple is willing to ept punishment."

    "Even if you donбпt say anything, I will still punish you. Take it."

    Zhang Wanjing threw out a bag of belongings. Lin Jiang opened it and immediately said. Master, this money is not enough. Why is it so little?

    "Whatбпs wrong? Youбпve received twenty-five years of sry, plus the pills that were originally meant for you. Everything is there."

    "Whereбпs my share of the profits, the money Iбпm supposed to get? With the food business and the supplies from Pill Hall and Talisman Hall, I should be making at least five hundred thousand spirit stones every year."

    Lin Jiang got anxious, his sry was just a small amount of money, it was actually his properties that were the main source of ie.

    "You were gone, and you still want a share of the profits?"

    "Thatбпs the hard-earned money I made."

    "If youбпre not using my name, how can you take this money?"

    "Master, you canбпt wipe them all out."

    "The resources of the sect are meant for the disciples of the sect. These restaurants are just subsidies for the middle and high-ranking members. Itбпs to prevent you from constantly asking the sect for help. You havenбпt contributed to the sect for over twenty years, so itбпs only natural that your profits are confiscated. Itбпs not fair for you to take advantage of everything."

    "Iбпm sorry, Master."

    "Itбпs toote. Itбпs only right to contribute to the sect and take the sectбпs money."

    Zhang Wanjing said. Confiscating the profits is already the lightest punishment. If it werenбпt for Lin Jiang being his disciple, it wouldnбпt be so easy. Just disobeying orders already warrants a severe punishment.

    "After your master finished speaking, itбпs my turn now. This is the profit from the restaurants in Yucheng City for over twenty years. As for the Spiritual Jade Company, itбпs gone, consider it as punishment."

    "Auntie, you came too?"

    "Your masterбпs request, we originally wanted to give it all to you."

    "Thatбпs right, consider it a small lesson for you. Donбпt be greedy. This is also because of your past merits. Otherwise, it wouldnбпt be this simple. At the very least, you would have been sent to Wilderness to guard for fifty years."

    "Bullying."

    Lin Jiang clenched his teeth, full of anger but nowhere to vent. On one side was his master and the sect, on the other side was Third Sister and the family, all older than him. He couldnбпt even get angry.

    "Youбпre not willing to ept it?"

    "I ept, I ept."

    Lin Jiang quickly said. You are the boss, I admit defeat and canбпt argue anymore.

    "Good that you admit defeat, if you dare to show your teeth, Iбпll teach you a lesson today."

    "Thatбпs right, you have no manners at all, itбпs time to teach you a lesson."

    "Third Auntie, we have the samest name."

    "A surname must also have rules."

    "бдбдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang remained silent. When did they be so in sync?

    "Given your special status, the sect doesnбпt have any specific tasks for you now. You can continue traveling, and if youбпre willing, you can write down the situations in other states and submit them to the sect."

    "As for the profit sharingбдбдбд"

    "Letбпs talk about itter. Show me your performance, and if you do well, Iбпll continue giving you more."

    "Third Auntie is here."

    "The Spiritual Jade Trading Company is gone, but you can still manage those few restaurants. Donбпt worry, they wonбпt cheat you."

    "Iбпm bankrupt, Iбпve be a pauper."

    Lin Jiang cried out in shock, feeling like he wanted to cry but had no tears. He had thought that this time he woulde back and receive the umted dividends of over twenty years. Putting both sides together, it would be at least several million spirit stones. But now, well, he didnбпt even have two million spirit stones when you added up his sry and the profits from the restaurant.

    For an ordinary person with a golden core, two million spirit stones would already be a lot, but for Lin Jiang, who used to have several billion in wealth, there was not much difference now between him and bankruptcy.

    "Serves him right."

    "He deserved it."

    Lin Die and Zhang Wanjing exchanged a nce, seeing the pained expression on Lin Jiangбпs face. They felt satisfied. This kid had been unruly and finally there was something they could use to control him. Otherwise, he would never listen in the future.

    Two dayster, outside the Lin familyбпs residence, Lin Die stopped Lin Jiang who was preparing to quietly leave.

    "Do you hold a grudge against your master?"

    "No."

    "Then why are you running away without saying anything?"

    "No, I stayed behind because I didnбпt know what to do. The Lin family has recently ceased fire, so thereбпs no need to carry out missions. The envoy is taken care of by my senior brother. Iбпm just left wondering what to do."

    "Still a bit childish, this little thing doesnбпt even count as a setback."

    "Really, itбпs not like that. I need to earn money, I need to cultivate and take care of Small Shadiao."

    Lin Jiang exined weakly, he wasnбпt really angry. He reflected on his actions and realized he was in the wrong. He epted the punishment he deserved. However, he couldnбпt help but feel restless just sitting around with no business or ie. Since he lost his possessions, he couldnбпt help but think about going back to Shenmu City to make money. After all, he needed money to survive.

    "Are you nning to return to Shenmu City?"

    "Yes, Iбпve been staying in Shenmu City for a while now and have be quite familiar with it. The business in the stores is also stable."

    Lin Jiang nodded, familiar ces are always better than unfamiliar ones. The business in Shenmu City is actually quite good. In the future, heбпll exploit Small Shadiao a little more, but itбпs enough for his cultivation.

    "Then letбпs not hurry back. In a while, weбпll visit the Shenmu Sect and bring you along for support."

    "*Cough, cough*бн"

    "Lin Cong always said that the life of an independent farmer is very difficult, having someone to support you is always better than being alone."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Small Shadiao, youбпve learned how to talk nonsense now. I should have sold you earlier.

 Chapter 244:

    Chapter 244:

    Zhongzhou, Shenmu Sect

    Lin Jiang followed Lin Batian, Lin Die, and the group to this ce. In these years, the Lin family has finally be quieter, and Lin Batian has also reduced his attacks on the four major families.

    Because some can no longer fight, the Lin family has suffered heavy losses in recent years, with many members of the family dead or injured. Seeking revenge cannot rely solely on Lin Batian, so he decided toy low and recover before making any profitable moves.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt know the connection between Lin Batian and Shenmu Sect, but after arriving at the sectбпs gate, the Tao Achieving elder of Shenmu Sect personally appeared.

    "Passing by Shenmu Sect several times, I always found this legendary tree incredible. But upon closer inspection, it bes even more awe-inspiring."

    Lin Die looked at the majestic Shenmu Sectбпs sacred tree and said. The towering sacred tree is truly awe-inspiring.

    "Iбпve been in Shenmu City for many years, but Iбпve never seen the sacred tree up close like this. It is truly impressive."

    "This sacred tree must be the oldest being in the cultivation world. It has outlived any cultivator or demon."

    "Yes."Lin Jiang nodded, thinking to himself, "But maybe I will live longer than it. I should get to know this sacred tree so that my future wonбпt be lonely. Itбпs no fun without a challenger in this longstingpetition."

    "Come on, letбпs go, and your Third Auntie will support you."

    Lin Die said, already knowing from Small Shadiao about Lin Jiangбпs encounter with the Nascent Soul chief Duanmu Ling in Shenmu City. This made Lin Die furious. She wouldnбпt let anyone bully Lin Jiang. When ites to protecting her loved ones, sheбпs just as good as Lin Batian.

    Lin Dieбпs behavior in protecting her loved ones was rough andcking finesse. She suddenly became arrogant, finding faults in Shenmu Sectбпs hospitality,ining about this and that.

    As one of the top sects in the world, disciples of Shenmu Sect naturally carry a sense of arrogance. Lin Dieбпs confrontational attitude instantly angered the disciples, and when she proposed a fight with them, they got excited and started boasting, wanting to teach Lin Die a lesson.

    Shenmu Sect has a special training ground. Lin Jiang stands outside the training ground, surrounded by disciples of Shenmu Sect. Meanwhile, Lin Die has already started fighting inside the training ground.

    Lin Die has reached the advanced stage of Nascent Soul cultivation. His opponent is also at the advanced stage of Nascent Soul. Both sides are fighting intensely.

    Lin Die has learned various skills. She initially studied spear techniques andter dabbled in alchemy. However, none of these suited Lin Dieбпs path. In the end, she chose to learn swordsmanship. Lin Batian, after revealing his true identity, taught her many secret techniques from the four major families, greatly enhancing herbat prowess.

    "Boom!"

    After dozens of rounds ofbat, Lin Die sends a Shenmu Sect disciple flying with a single strike of her sword, knocking him out of the battle.

    "The Chief has arrived."

    "Brother Du Muke."

    "Yes, Brother Du Muke has arrived."

    At this moment, Duanmu Ling also receives news that someone is provoking Shenmu Sect. Apanied by a crowd of people, Duanmu Ling arrives at the training ground.

    "Shenmu Sect Duanmu Ling hase to learn superior skills from Taoist friend."

    "No problem, I came specifically for you."

    "Has Duanmu Ling offended Taoist friend?"

    "Look over there, thatбпs my nephew."

    Lin Die pointed at Lin Jiang, Duanmu Ling turned around and saw Lin Jiang smiling at him. Duanmu Ling didnбпt remember much about Lin Jiang, but he remembered Small Shadiao, who was with Lin Jiang, very clearly and immediately thought of him.

    "Taoist friend, this is a misunderstanding."

    "I know itбпs a misunderstanding, so today we can have a friendly match."

    "Okay."

    Duanmu Ling didnбпt say much anymore. He did have some crooked thoughts, but Lin Jiang was quick to react, and in fact, he didnбпt do much.

    "Come, try to block my move. If you can, you win."

    "Arrogant."

    "The Sword Approaches."

    Lin Die shouted loudly, and her spiritual power surged into the flying sword. The sword instantly multiplied several times in size, emitting a terrifying aura that quickly spread. Many people were captivated by this attack.

    "Go."

    The flying sword descended from the sky, thrusting towards Duanmu Ling. Duanmu Lingбпs expression turned serious as he knew that Lin Dieбпs attack was her most powerful move. He knew that her spirit, energy, and focus were all concentrated in it. He dared not underestimate it and infused his own sword with his spiritual power.

    "Boom."

    The two swords shed, and a dazzling light burst from their des. Lower-ranking disciples were injured by this light, some even screaming in pain. The defensive formation of the training field crumbled quickly, and those in charge of maintaining it couldnбпt react in time. Fortunately, the formation in the training field was connected to a protective mountain formation, which provided energy and eventually stabilized it.

    The light dissipated, and everyone saw the two figures in the training field. Lin Die stood in her original spot, with seven or eight cracks beneath her feet. Duanmu Ling, on the other hand, was half-kneeling on the ground, trembling uncontrobly, relying on the sword in his hand for support.

    "Come again."

    "No, you won."

    "Come again."

    Duanmu Ling yelled angrily. He lost, but he didnбпt ept it. He thought Lin Die had cheated and felt that he lost unfairly.

    "No need to fight anymore."

    A voice came from the sky. A Soul Changing expert appeared and dered that thepetition had already determined a winner.

    "Martial Uncle, Iбн"

    "The techniques used by Lin, my young friend, seem to be a fusion of sword and spear skills, utilizing at least three secret techniques simultaneously. These are battle formations and killing techniques that cannot be learned within the sect. You lost because of your mindset. You could have blocked thatst strike, but you didnбпt, because you didnбпt fight with everything you had. If you continue, you will die here."

    Shenmu Sectбпs Soul Changing expertmented, leaving Duanmu Ling looking gloomy, while Lin Die bowed and said. As a person from the countryside,peting fiercely, I apologize for any inconvenience caused to the seniors.

    "The cultivator fought against the heavens, and you winning is only natural. Disperse now."

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    Everyone scattered away, and Duanmu Ling was supported and taken away by someone.

    "Third Auntie, thank you for your hard work."

    "Itбпs nothing. But this Duanmu Ling is truly deserving of being the Shenmu Sectбпs top disciple. If we were to truly battle, I might not be able to defeat him."

    "But didnбпt you win?"

    "I just found a clever way."

    Lin Die smiled. Why did she say that predicting the oue with a single move was clever? She approached the situation with a life-or-death mentality, while Duanmu Ling didnбпt have this mindset. Moreover, Duanmu Ling didnбпt get the chance to use his strong points, like his protective treasure. Considering Duanmu Lingбпs background, he is certainly better off than her. If they were to continue fighting, the oue would be uncertain.

    At the same time, in another ce within the Shenmu Sect, Lin Batian apologized to a senior Tao Achieving cultivator of the Shenmu Sect with a sincere expression. "I apologize for the negligence in teaching the younger generation. My daughter was overly wild and rude. Rest assured, I will make sure she apologizes to your esteemed sectбпs disciplester."

    "Put away your little thoughts, my Shenmu Sect is not at a point where we canбпt afford to lose."

    "Senior, you have a vast knowledge, and Iбпve learned from you."

    "Hmph."

    Some people were unhappy, thinking that Lin Batian and his daughter were indeed too rude.

    "Senior, I wonder how you have considered the suggestion I made."

    "Let us discuss further; you can rest for now."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator of Shenmu Sect said, waving his hand to bid farewell. Lin Batian didnбпt say much and quickly left.

    "Itбпs most difficult to repay emotional debts among people. We received a favor from his ancestors back then. Now, sigh, senior brother, what do you think we should do?"

    "Agreeing to Lin Batianбп request means we will be at odds with the four major families of the Qing State. There are still two Tao Achieving cultivators among them, and considering their strength, it is possible for another one or two to join them. Shenmu Sect should not provoke such strong enemies."

    "I think the same way, but the favor from that yearбн"

    "Junior brother, consider it for yourself. I also canбпt handle this matter well. The four major families are like ferocious tigers, and Lin Batian is not willing to give in. In the battle with Divine Kingdom, eight people at the same level of Soul Changing were killed, even Tao Achieving cultivator Chen Zheng was sneaked and killed."

    "I am also worried. This person now uses politeness before force. If we forcefully refuse, sighбн"

    Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator hesitated greatly. He really didnбпt want to get involved in the internal strife of the four major families. The background of these families is too terrifying. After inheriting for so many years, who knows what hidden cards they still have. If they rashly refuse, it wonбпt be a good thing either.

    "Why not ask the ancestor?"

    "Well, thatбпs not so good. It would disturb the old ancestor."

    "Thereбпs nothing wrong with that. Lin Batian specifically came for the old ancestor. We as the younger generation shouldnбпt interfere with the decision of the old ancestor."

    "It should be so. Iбпll go talk to the old ancestor."

    Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator nodded. That makes sense. The Lin family has a deep connection with the old ancestor, so let the old ancestor decide.

 Chapter 245:

    Chapter 245:

    Zhongzhou, Shenmu Sect

    "Lin Huan?"

    When Lin Batian flew to the Divine Tree with Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving Ancestor, a voice suddenly sounded and a young man appeared in front of them.

    "Greetings, Elder Ancestor."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator of Shenmu Sect quickly bowed. Although he was an Elder Ancestor of a sect, in the cultivation world, there was no one older than the person in front of them.

    "Lin Batian, descendant of the Lin family, greets Shenmu Ancestor."

    "You are not Lin Huan."

    "Lin Huan is our ancestral founder."

    "Oh, descendants of Lin Huan!""Yes, Lin Huan is the ancestor of the Lin family for six generations."

    "He really looks like him!"

    Shenmu Ancestor stared at Lin Batian, and he looked exactly like someone from his memory, identical in every way.

    "How many years has it been since Lin Huanбпs death?"

    "Itбпs been over eighty thousand years."

    "So long?"

    "Yes."

    "I bet thereбпs nothing left but bone ashes."

    "Cough cough"

    Lin Batian was speechless. Is it really okay for someone to say that in front of him? Thatбпs his ancestor after all.

    "You go down first."

    Shenmu Ancestor said to Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator, who felt a bit frustrated but still flew away from the Shenmu.

    "Why did youe to find me?"

    "ording to our familyбпs ancestral teachings, when the descendants encounter difficulties, they can seek help from Shenmu Ancestor. I, a young one, am in trouble and havee to seek help."

    "I see that your lifespan is not much. Have you used the Burning Life Secret Method too much and want to prolong it?"

    "Yes, the Lin family has suffered a catastrophe. The main descendants of the Lin family have been killed or injured. I am the only surviving descendant. I hold deep resentment in my heart, unable to release it, so I can only extinguish it with the enemyбпs blood, thus I have used the Burning Life Secret Method multiple times. My lifespan is already scarce."

    Lin Batian said that even though he is invincible at the same level, he often battles beings from higher realms. He has managed to survive until now by using arge amount of the Burning Life Secret Method, but he is only in his early 500s and his lifespan is diminishing. His body is full of wounds. Without a precious treasureбпs assistance, he wonбпt live past thirty years.

    "In the past, your ancestors have been very kind to me, and I did promise your ancestors to protect you. So, tell me, what do you want?"

    "Eternal Spirit Liquid, Seven Layered Divine Fruit, please guide me."

    "Youбпre really not polite."

    "Please fulfill my request."

    "Eternal Spirit Liquid is a precious substance that forms my true body. It takes ten thousand years to condense a single drop, and it can heal your injuries and restore your damaged body. The Seven Layered Divine Fruit can help you break through the Void Achieving level. However, you can only choose one."

    Shenmu Ancestor said. Both of these items are extremely precious treasures. If they were to be used outside, it would surely cause chaos and bloodshed. Even for me, there are not many to spare, so I canбпt just give them away casually.

    This choice between the two options made Lin Batian fall silent. He knew his own body well. If he had the Eternal Spirit Liquid, it could fix all his problems. He was already an invincible peer at the same level, but he still struggled to surpass the Void Achieving level, let alone the Tao Achieving level.

    If he chose the Seven Layered Divine Fruit, he would have a chance to break through the Void Achieving level, and his lifespan would increase to five thousand years. With his current condition, he could live for another three thousand years or so. But the question was, could he actually break through?

    "Senior, Iбпm willing to offer more, I want both of them."

    "Kid, thereбпs nothing in this world that can attract me anymore."

    The Shenmu Ancestor shook his head. He could obtain any treasure, and this divine tree was one of the most precious treasures in the world, perhaps even the only one.

    "What if this chip holds the secret to bing a god?"

    "I donбпt think a Soul Changing person like you can grasp this secret."

    "Indeed, a mere Soul Changing person doesnбпt have the qualification. But what about the secret of the Green Emperor? When the Thunder Emperor spared your life, it wasnбпt just because of your hard cultivation, but also for a reason."

    "What reason?"

    "Why did the Green Emperor guide you and tell you not to break through the Disaster Crossing Period?"

    "Wellбн"

    "Actually, I donбпt know either. But I have a letter left by my ancestors, with some fragments of information. It mentions the Green Emperor Tomb, which contains many secrets. If I seed in my revenge, I can open the Green Emperor Tomb and share the secrets with you."

    "Does hatred blind your eyes, that you wonбпt even spare the Green Emperor Tomb?"

    "Unexpected changes in the family, loved ones dying before your eyes. If you forget this kind of hatred, are you still human?"

    "Thatбпs true. Then, make a vow. Donбпt think thereбпs any room for escape."

    "Okay."

    Lin Batian immediately agreed, truly, growing into an immortal was a temptation no one could resist, not even the ancient God Tree who had lived for countless thousands of years.

    Lin Batian began to make his vow, using precise and urate words, not leaving any loopholes to exploit.

    "This is the Eternal Spirit Liquid. Your cultivation isnбпt yetplete, and the Seven Layered Divine Fruit wonбпt be of use to you. Take this first."

    "Thank you, predecessor."

    Lin Batian was overjoyed and immediately swallowed the spirit liquid sent by the Shenmu Ancestor. As the liquid entered his stomach, Lin Batian immediately felt a warm aura spreading throughout his body, dispelling all the hidden injuries left from his previous wounds. He was filled with newfound strength.

    "Good sir, thereбпs something I humbly request your guidance on."

    "Please go on."

    "The secret art of the Four Great Families, ying God Spear, epasses the essence of the Three Pure Ones, with countless variations and the ability to manifest three heads and six arms. It is the most advanced secret art in the world today. For tens of thousands of years, only Green Emperor has sessfully mastered all four variations. Even though I am nothingpared to him, I still want to give it a try."

    "You have quite the appetite. Mastering one of these secret arts is already an achievement worthy of being a genius. Do you really want to learn all four and be the second Green Emperor?"

    "Apart from seeking revenge for my familyбпs feud, I canбпt think of any other way to seek justice."

    Lin Batian expressed that over the years he had done everything in his power to seek revenge but was limited by his abilities and could not defeat the Four Great Families. Now, besides this path, he couldnбпt think of any other options.

    "Good things donбпt just fall from the sky."

    "I can promise you, good sir, that if I seed in my practice, I will serve and obey you in the future, even if it means going through trials and hardships without hesitation."

    "How can you guarantee your sess in your practice?"

    "I am almost ready to master the technique of having three heads and six arms."

    "Alright, as you wish."

    "I respectfully ask for your guidance, senior."

    "I donбпt possess the four secret techniques of the Green Emperor, but when the Green Emperor secluded himself beneath my true form, I retained a visual image of his training. You may take a look and learn as much as you can, depending on your own abilities."

    Shenmu Ancestor said that he couldnбпt learn the secret techniques of the human race, but in the past, the Green Emperor and he had a connection. They once secluded themselves under his tree for many years, and he retained an image of their practice.

    "Thank you, senior."

    "Take your time to observe. I need to go and meet some guests."

    Shenmu Ancestorбпs expression changed, he waved his hand, and a projection appeared, while he himself appeared outside the tree.

    Outside the tree at this time, Shenmu Sect weed visitors, and the visitors were not just anyone, but the Tao Achieving Ancestors of the Lu family and Yu family, two of the four major ns.

    "Met Shenmu Ancestor"

    When they saw Shenmu Ancestor, both of them respectfully bowed.

    "Why have youe again?"

    "Shenmu Ancestor, we received news that the remnants of the Lin family have arrived at Shenmu Sect."

    "So what?"

    "Ancestor, our four families have a history with you. Why do you favor the Lin family so much?"

    "Want to know why?"

    "Please enlighten us, senior."

    "Years ago, the Green Emperor adopted four orphans as disciples and they lived with me for many years. The ancestor of the Lin family took care of me like watering nts and fertilizing the soil, while the ancestors of your three families broke my branches, plucked my fruits, and even wanted to cut me down for firewood."

    "Ah"

    The elders of the Lu family and the Yu family were both confused, did their ancestors really do such a thing?

    "Elder, when did this happen? Our ancestors wouldnбпt do something like this, right?"

    "I canбпt recall how many years ago, but when they were still just little kids, I was already tired of these brats."

    "Youбпve been keeping track of children ying for hundreds of thousands of years?"

    "Why wouldnбпt I remember? Itбпs not like it harmed you, did it?"

    "Iбн"

    "Elder, our ancestorster became moreposed, shouldnбпt we apologize for their actions?"

    "We did, but I didnбпt ept it."

    "Why is this happening again?"

    "Who says I have to ept apologies? Canбпt I refuse?"

    "Ancestorбн"

    Both of them were dumbfounded. This old man canбпt be serious. How could such a trivial matter be remembered for tens of thousands of years?

    "Xiao Yu, Xiao He, drive them away. I donбпt want to see them. If they donбпt leave, then none of you should leave either. Our Elder is in need of some fertilizer, and these Tao Achieving Realm cultivators are perfect."

    "Ancestor, weбн"

    "Dear Taoist friends, our Elder has spoken. Donбпt make things difficult for us."

    A cultivator from the Shenmu Sect stopped the two individuals, and also showed a strange expression. He requested for them to leave.

    Both ancestral elders looked at each other, realizing they couldnбпt make a move. These ancient creatures have lived for hundreds of thousands of years, and they couldnбпt afford to offend them. No one knows what realm this Shenmu Ancestor belongs to.

    "Brother Lu, what on earth is going on? I ampletely confused."

    "Iбпm just as surprised, hey, how could our respected ancestors do such a thing?"

    "Who knows, when we return, letбпs discipline the children in our family. No one will dare to misbehave anymore, theyбпll be in big trouble."

    The two of them went home feeling annoyed and determined. They had made up their minds to improve the familyбпs reputation and get rid of those annoying mischievous kids.

    The two Tao Achieving members of Shenmu Sect exchanged nces. Our ancestor has such a strange temper, and is so petty. They can remember even the smallest things for thousands of years. In the future, we must be careful in serving them, or else itбпll harm the future generations.

 Chapter 246:

    Chapter 246:

    In the central region, there is Shenmu Sect.

    Lin Batian hasnбпt been heard from since he joined Shenmu Sect. Lin Die has gotten used to Lin Batianбп way of doing things, so sheбпs not worried. But Lin Jiang is having a hard time adjusting.

    "Who should I ask? Donбпt you know Iбпm here every day?"

    Faced with Lin Jiangбпs question, Lin Die shrugged her shoulders, indicating that she didnбпt know. They had been staying in the guest house arranged by the Shenmu Sect these past few days, and hadnбпt been anywhere else.

    "Can I leave first, Third Auntie?"

    "What do you need to do?"

    "I want to go back to Shenmu City. If I donбпt open my shop, it will be a waste because I still have to pay rent."

    "So narrow-minded."

    "Well, before I had money, it didnбпt matter. But now that I donбпt, I have to be very careful with my spending. Life is toughбн""Donбпt get all worked up. Theyбпre just deducting a small portion of your dividends."

    "Third Auntie, itбпs not just a small amount, itбпs at least more than ten million spirit stones."

    "More than ten million? Thatбпs a lot. Your master is really good to you."

    "What a jerk! He dumped me, heбпs just a loser."

    "Iбпll tell your master and heбпll punish you again."

    Lin Die rolled her eyes. Her nephew was so rebellious, he even schemed against his master.

    "Iбпm not afraid anymore. Since he already takes my money, he thinks heбпs in charge. If he doesnбпt give me money, heбпs nothing."

    "Is your business in Shenmu City big?"

    "Not really, just a small shop. I make a few tens of thousands of spirit stones a year. But now that Iбпm going back, I definitely need to expand my business."

    Lin Jiang said, before he thought he had some industries in two ces, so he could just rx and make a little profit. With a golden core and a fourth-rank beast pet, he only made a few tens of thousands of spirit stones a year. Now that he lost his industries, he can only work hard to make money.

    "Can your Third Auntie help you?"

    "Are you trying to nt someone close to me?"

    "Yes, you also mentioned before that moving frequently is not good for disciplesбп training. Our n has many talented young people, and they have been dyed in their training due to all these years of moving. We need to find an opportunity to provide them with a stable environment."

    "That works too. Itбпs better to have people from the Lin family rather than recruiting independent cultivators. But letбпs make it clear that they are just workers and cannot take shares in my business."

    "No problem, but we shouldnбпt mistreat them. We need to give them what they deserve."

    "Donбпt worry, I believe in winning people over with kindness."

    Lin Jiang said. What needs to be given must be given, and what needs to be exploited must be exploited. This is what fits his identity as a wealthy capitalist of the Lin family.

    "Alright, you go ahead, and Iбпll write a letter home. Within a month, someone wille over. We will provide Pills, Talismans, Items, and Formations for them. You can start expanding our industries."

    "Are there any strong cultivators? Will Lin Dongyane?"

    "Dream on. At most, heбпs at the third level. Elite cultivators like Lin Dongyan will definitely stay with us."

    Lin Die said. These elite n members have been carefully nurtured with extremely high costs. Thereбпs no way they will easily be sent away. They must stay by our side.

    "Okay, letбпs go, itбпs just three steps."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Without masters who are above the fifth level in Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation, the store canбпt grow big. But he didnбпt n to grow too big anyway, since the Lin family or the Five Elements Sect didnбпt fully support him. He didnбпt have the strength for that. If he really made it big, it would only bring trouble.

    A few dayster, Lin Jiang left with Small Shadiao. Before leaving, he saw Lin Die receiving another pile of challenge letters. Ever since she luckily defeated Duanmu Ling, the Nascent Soul cultivators from the Shenmu Sect were excited and came one after another to challenge her.

    You should know that the chief position in the Shenmu Sect is not fixed and can be reced. As long as the challenger is around the same age, cultivation level, and talent, if they win during the challenge, they can rece the chief.

    Now that Duanmu Ling lost to Lin Die, those people were excited. They thought that if they won against Lin Die, wouldnбпt that be the same as winning against Duanmu Ling? How could he still have the face to hold on to the chief position?

    Lin Die wasnбпt interested in fighting with them. She fought against Duanmu Ling before to protect her friend, but now she had no interest.

    Lin Jiang secretly returned to Shenmu City, still disguising himself. After all, itбпs not good to go around with his true appearance. If he encountered danger, he would have to run away.

    After more than half a month, about sixty to seventy people from the Lin family arrived, mostly younger generations and the oldest being from the storage branch. Plus, more than half of them didnбпt have skills in Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation.

    "Oh dear, life is tough. After Master cheats me, Third Sister cheats me too. Is this forcing me to be a nanny?"

    Lin Jiang sighed. He was now stuck with this group of people, and it seemed like he might have to be their babysitter. Luckily, they didnбпt throw any seven or eight-year-old kids his way. Otherwise, Lin Jiang would have run away immediately. He really disliked bratty kids.

    "Greetings, Uncle."

    Sixty to seventy people stood in a neat row, bowing to Lin Jiang. It was quite a spectacle. Lin Jiang stroked his chin, deciding to grow a beard in the future. That way, he would look more like an elder.

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, signaling everyone to go rest. He called over the two older ones. This group of people, led by them, had strong cultivation just like Lin Jiang. They all had golden cores.

    "Lin Cunjian, Lin Cuncheng, in the future, you will be in charge of managing these people. Iбпve rented three houses for you. Squeeze in together for now. When you start making money, you can change your residence. Is that okay?"

    "No problem, Uncle. Third Ancestor has said that weбпll listen to you."

    "Alright, then letбпs divide tasks as Iбпve said. The sixty to seventy people will work together. Some will handle logistics. There are no servants here to order you around. Youбпll have to do everything on your own. Some will specialize in Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation. Others will work in the tradingpany."

    Lin Jiang said, managing the sixty to seventy people was not an easy task. Each person had their own ideas. Many couldnбпt even manage a dormitory properly. Thankfully, Lin Jiang wasnбпt inexperienced. He had managed many people before.

    The sixty to seventy people formed groups. The ones with the lowest cultivation would handle logistics, taking care of themselves while also managing some other tasks. Those with decent skills in Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation would specialize in crafting goods for the tradingpany. The rest would join thepany to help.

    Thepany also needs to grow bigger. Lin Jiang has already found a new store, which is muchrger than the previous small one. He has divided the positions of the ountant, assistant, and store manager, ensuring that everyone has work to do but not too busy. After all, it is most important for them to practice and improve their skills.

    The first half month was quite chaotic. A group of people were not used to this kind of life. Except for Lin Cunjian and Lin Cuncheng, most of them were still being supported by their families. But as time passed, they gradually adapted. Lin Jiang was very forgiving towards them and would not punish them for making mistakes.

    "I have seen it. You have arranged it well."

    After a few more days, Lin Die appeared and said to Lin Jiang that she had been observing for a day. Lin Jiang had arranged the people very well.

    "Third Auntie, why are you here?"

    "Iбпm worried, so I came to take a look."

    "Well, you have to disguise yourself. I have already given the order that no one is allowed to talk about the Lin family. Your appearance would render all my efforts useless."

    "Thereбпs no need to be so nervous. The four major families have no influence over Shenmu City. I received information that the four major families have visited Shenmu Sect, but they were driven away. It seems that they have grudges against each other, and their rtionship is not good."

    "Alright, how is the family head?"

    "We have achieved our goal, but we still need to stay in seclusion at the Shenmu Sect. I donбпt know when we wille out. Please inform me when I should return to the Lin family. Also, intensify the harassment against the remnants of the four major families, gather their remaining forces."

    "Didnбпt we say we were taking a break? Do we have to fight?"

    "We have to fight, otherwise it wonбпt work. The four major families almost control the entire Qing State. Once they settle down and develop, we wonбпt be able topete with them no matter what. So we can only fight them to deplete their resources and prevent them from focusing on their development. Otherwise, we have no way out."

    Lin Die said. The Lin family has very limited resources and territory. If wepete with the others, the Lin family will definitely lose.

    Now, the only hope for the Lin family is to constantly harass the four major families, assassinate their talented descendants, and slow down their development. Otherwise, the future of the Lin family is in danger.

    Hearing this, Lin Jiang frowned. The Lin familyбпs situation reminded him of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period. Even if the enemy is stronger, they still need to be on the offensive. Strategically, this is the right approach. However, Lin Jiang already knows the fate of the Shu Kingdom.

    "It seems like you donбпt have much confidence in this strategy."

    "Even if we exchange one member of the Lin family for five or ten members of the four major families, in the end, the Lin family will still lose. Letбпs not forget that at the Nascent Soul level, the Lin family only has you and Lin Ying, and if we include Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao, itбпs still only four of you. How can youpete with the four major families?"

    "Then tell me, what other options do you have?"

    "Thereбпs no other way, the only hope is to rely on the appearance of an extraordinary genius in the Yu family, simr to the Yu familyбпs head, and gather all resources to cultivate him, allowing him to take a shortcut."

    Lin Jiang said. If itбпs in the ordinary world, the Lin family has no hope at all, but in the world of cultivation, there is still hope. The hope lies in an extraordinary genius.

    "Extraordinary geniuses are rare and cannot be sought after. My fatherбпs appearance alone is already a stroke of luck for the Lin family. So now, all the ns revolve around my father. This trip to the Shenmu Sect is already halfway sessful. If my father can achieve the n, then revenge is possible. As for us, all we can do is to buy time for my father."

    "Auntie Threeбн"

    "Thereбпs no need to be so desperate, everything will get better."

    "Yes, Auntie Three."

    "Take care of these people. They are all the elite of the Lin family, with excellent Spiritual Roots, talents, and understanding. Take good care of them, and the Lin family will reward you handsomely. It will definitely be a priceless reward."

    Lin Die said. The Lin familyбпs descendants have been dispersed and arranged in various ces, just to n for the future. We should also take care of our eldest nephew here, considering how much he has contributed to the Lin family.

 Chapter 247:

    Chapter 247:

    Central Province, Shenmu City

    Lin Die only stayed in Shenmu City for two days and kept a very low profile. She didnбпt show herself much, but she spent two days with the children of the Lin family and advised them to always follow Lin Jiangбпs lead.

    Lin Die knows a lot about Lin Jiangбпs experiences. Lin Jiang has had many more adventures than the young children of the Lin family. He has been through a lot in Yunzhong City and in the Five Elements Sect. He has been very sessful everywhere he went, and his knowledge of the world is far beyond what the young Lin family members have. So naturally, they all look up to Lin Jiang as their leader.

    As time passed by, the young children of the Lin family grew up rapidly and became more reliable in their tasks. Lin Jiang started to delegate more and more responsibilities to them, giving them opportunities for growth and development.

    With the growth of many children from the Lin family, the business named Fengyun Trading Company, given by Lin Jiang, gradually established its presence in Shenmu Sect. Compared to other bigpanies, Fengyun Trading Company is only average in Shenmu City. However, the monthly profits are quite substantial, barely enough to support everyoneбпs spiritual cultivation.

    However, both Lin Jiang and Small Shadiao faced some challenges. Lin Jiang needs a lot of medicine to enhance his abilities, and Small Shadiao has high expenses. For Small Shadiao to continue advancing, the required resources are not insignificant. Even a fourth-tier Demon Core is just a basic supplement for him, which Lin Jiang cannot afford in the long run.

    Therefore, for now, Small Shadiao can only take some Beast Spirit Pills, roughly one pill per month. This amount is far from enough for Small Shadiaoбпs advancement, but Lin Jiang has limited abilities, so they have to make do.

    As Small Shadiao spends more time with everyone, he bes smarter and more capable. He is no different from ordinary cultivators now. He is currently responsible for guarding the tradingpany and solving any security problems.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд"In the mountains, there is no day or night. Practicing also has no day or night. Blink, and three years have passed."

    On this day, Lin Jiang woke up from his practice. This was his long-term seclusion,sting for three years. And his cultivation has also reached the peak of the initial stage of the golden core.

    "At 385 years old in the initial stage of the golden core, I am definitely a waste. Butpared to before, I have improved so much."

    Lin Jiang nced at the system and confirmed his age. Otherwise, he really forgot how old he was. He lived for too long, almost four hundred years. The mortal dynasty has changed twice.

    Advancing to the golden core also takes more than seventy years. Itбпs really useless to not break through to the intermediate stage of the golden core in more than seventy years. After all, an ordinary golden core cultivator would exhaust their energy and blood at over four hundred years old. There would be no chance for the Nascent Soul stage.

    But Lin Jiangбпs records in the Five Elements Sect show that he is only in his twenties, and in Zhang Wanjingбпs known experiences, he is not even three hundred years old. He can at least maintain his identity as a disciple of the Five Elements Sect for two hundred years. Thatбпs already enough.

    Lin Jiang cherishes this life experience. He knows that theter he goes, the more lonely he will be. After several thousand or tens of thousands of years, when all his acquaintances have turned into a handful of soil, he may never be this happy again. He only hopes that time can pass slower now.

    After feeling emotional, Lin Jiang tidied up and walked out of the door. The courtyard was empty, with only him and Small Shadiao living there. The young members of the Lin family were in the neighboring courtyard, which Lin Jiang took a lot of effort to rent.

    The walls between several courtyards have been knocked down, and there is a small door for entry and exit. When Lin Jiang pushed open the door, he heard a woman scream. Several women in the yard panicked, and there were a few children looking stunned at Lin Jiang.

    "Donбпt panic, donбпt panic, itбпs Martial Uncle, one of us."

    Someone in the house heard a scream, and a woman came out quickly, seeing Lin Jiangforting everyone.

    "Lin Dongyuan, whatбпs going on? Who are they?"

    Lin Jiang was a bit confused, wondering how so many people came into his house.

    "Reporting to Uncle Ancestor, these are all the wives of the Lin family descendants. Let me introduce them to Uncle Ancestor. This is Lin Cunjianбпs wife, this is his second wife, third wife, and this isбн"

    Lin Dongyuan quickly introduced everyone to Lin Jiang. The women in the courtyard were all spoken for, married to the Lin family descendants.

    "Lin Cunjian and them got married."

    "Yes, Uncle Ancestor got married after going into seclusion. We originally wanted Uncle Ancestor to attend the wedding banquet, but heбпs in seclusion, so we didnбпt dare to disturb him."

    "Thatбпs good."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes, the wedding feast was all about the food, but they didnбпt even invite him.

    "Uncleбн"

    "Iбпve been secluded for these years, tell me, what major events have happened?"

    "Yes, uncle. After you secluded yourselfбн"

    Lin Dongyuan slowly exined that after Lin Jiang secluded himself, nothing major happened in these three years. They handled the small problems in their business on their own. The biggest thing was that the younger generation of the Lin family started to get married and have children.

    A total of sixty-seven people from the Lin family came, fifty of them were men and seventeen were women. All fifty Lin family men have gotten married in the past two to three years. There are more than eighty Lin family daughters-inw, and more than half of the Lin family men have more than one wife.

    However, only one out of the seventeen women got married. Like Lin Dongyuan, she isnбпt allowed to marry outside the family. Lin family women, starting from the third generation, can only use their family name as their given name. If they choose to get married, they cannot use their family name. Lin Dongyuan, for example, belongs to the East-generation, and since she used her family name, she cannot marry outside the family.

    "He really carries the traits of Lin Batian, well-versed in the traditions of the Lin family. Impressive."

    After listening, Lin Jiang couldnбпt help but admire the Lin familyбпs younger generation. They were impressive. They had only been in Shenmu City for three to four years, but they had all found partners, and some even had more than one.

    Lin Jiang thought about himself again. He has been single for almost four hundred years. In terms of cultivation, he is very powerful. In terms of wealth, there is noparison. In terms of appearance, he is handsome and well-known in the whole vige. Why has he been single all this time? Where can he find an exnation for that?

    "Uncleбн"

    "Clean up the courtyard. We will have a family gathering tonight. Invite everyone who cane."

    "Yes, Uncle."

    Lin Dongyuan received the order and immediately went to inform several female cultivators from the Lin family to prepare food and drinks for the dinner tonight.

    Seventeen female cultivators from the Lin family came to Shenmu City. Only eight of them were busy at the shop, while the others were taking care of logistical matters. They had enough manpower, and for safety reasons, they didnбпt hire any servants or the like. They did everything themselves.

    In the evening, the courtyard became lively. All the tables were put together to form two super long tables, and both sides were filled with people.

    "Greetings, Uncle."

    When everyone was gathered, they all bowed to Lin Jiang.

    "Please sit down."

    "Why are you calling me боuncleбп? If you want to call someone, call your father."

    Lin Jiang nced at Small Shadiao next to him. Has this guy be dumb after hanging out with Lin Cunjian for so long?

    Small Shadiao sat down without saying a word, smiling. He had a high position here, second only to Lin Jiang, so he sat next to him.

    "Thest gathering was three years ago, before I went into seclusion. There were only around seventy people back then, but now there are nearly two hundred!"

    Lin Jiang raised his ss and spoke to everyone. There were over seventy Lin family members, over eighty wives, and dozens of children. If we count the ones on the way, there are probably over two hundred!

    "Uncle, this matter should have been decided by you, but you were in seclusion, and we didnбпt want to disturb you, so we took the liberty to make the decision. Please forgive us, uncle."

    "No need for that. It is the duty of the Lin family descendants to expand the family. In this regard, I should learn from all of you."

    "If uncle wishes to marry, my wifeбпs family has several good women. Itбпs just that her family doesnбпt have much influenceбн"

    Lin Cunjian hurriedly said. In the Lin family, most wivesбп families are not very influential. In fact, they are rarely equal. This is because the Lin family likes to have concubines. Lin Batian has dozens of wives and concubines, and the descendants of the Lin family follow his example. I, Lin Cunjian, have three wives in Shenmu City and even more in my hometown.

    "Thatбпs not necessary. Todayбпs gathering is not meant to me you. I am just deeply touched in my heart. The Lin family of Yun State, starting from the family head Lin Batian, has grown to include thousands of people. Well, I donбпt really know how many now, but there are definitely a lot of offspring."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. He was the sixth brother in the birth order. When he was born, there were only a dozen people in the Lin family. Now, he doesnбпt know how many people there are anymore. He witnessed the rise of a family, and that was what impressed him the most.

    "Yes, Uncle Grandfather."

    "No need to say more. Letбпs eat and drink. The prosperity of the Lin family is in your hands."

    Lin Jiang raised his cup again and everyone enjoyed drinking together. Lin Jiang was very down-to-earth, and everyone feltfortable. Soon, the atmosphere became lively.

    After more than two hours, some people were already drunk. Lin Jiang saw this and thought it was about time to leave, but he left Lin Cunjian and a few others behind. He said to them, "The rules of the cultivation world are like this: as long as a man has strength, he can have multiple wives and concubines. The same goes for women if they have strength. I donбпt have much to say about that. But since you have married someone and have children with them, you have to take responsibility for them. Try to treat your wives, concubines, and children fairly. Family conflicts often start with parents showing favoritism, you know?"

    Lin Jiang taught sincerely. In fact, Lin Batian didnбпt do a great job at this. He was busy with his cultivation and the matters of the Lin family, and he was not affectionate towards his children. The younger siblings of the second generation of the Lin family also didnбпt feel close to Lin Batian. Lin Jiang didnбпt want the future generations of the Lin family to experience the same fate.

    "Yes, Uncle Grandfather."

    Everyone agreed, they didnбпt dare to argue, and some people themselves didnбпt receive any fatherly love.

 Chapter 248:

    Chapter 248:

    Shenmu City, located in the central region.

    "Whereбпs my money? Can you tell me where my money went?"

    What about Fengyun Trading Company? Lin Jiang roared. After he returned from his journey, he came to thepany to check the ounts. His tradingpany should have made about four hundred thousand spirit stones in profit over three years, after deducting all expenses. But damn, the money is nowhere to be found.

    "Uncle, Uncle Lin Cong took all the money."

    Lin Cunjian looked frightened. He realized that something was terribly wrong. Uncle Lin Cong has been embezzling.

    "Where is Small Shadiao? Tell him to get out."

    "Uncle, Uncle Lin Cong ran outside the city."

    "Want to run? Thereбпs not even a door. Roll back to me."

    Lin Jiang is really angry. Things are different now. Forget about his small goals. Heбпs poor now. Dare to touch a poor personбпs money? Isnбпt that asking for trouble?Lin Jiang activated a secret technique and activated the Master-servant Contract. In no time, Small Shadiao came back, holding his head and screaming in fear.

    "Stop reading, stop reading. I have a headache."

    Small Shadiao quickly begged for mercy. It was his first time experiencing the power of the tight curse. It was quite refreshing.

    "Tell me, whereбпs my money?"

    "Spent it."

    "Spent it? Thereбпs food and drinks in the store, your Beast Spirit Pill is not interrupted, and you still receive wages. You say itбпs spent, where did you spend it?"

    "Bought food, I eat a lot."

    "I can tell what youбпre doing by your butt, if you donбпt behave, Iбпll skin you."

    "Really ate it."

    "Lin Dongbao, youe and talk. I will ask one by one, if you donбпt tell the truth, I will send you all back and let Lin Die punish you with family rules."

    Lin Jiang said to a young man. Among the Lin family juniors, Lin Dongbao is the more honest type. These things should be asked to honest people.

    Sure enough, Lin Dongbao became nervous as soon as he heard it. His face turned red, and Lin Cunjian and the others quickly changed their expressions, signaling him not to speak.

    Lin Jiang sneered. His divine sense condensed into a needle and pierced towards Lin Cunjian and the others. Although they were all in the Golden Core Period, Lin Jiangбпs divine sense was at least one realm higher than theirs.

    The group of people grimaced in pain and dared not make any more small movements. Lin Dongbao quickly said. Uncle, Uncle Lin Cong went to Qinghuan Tower.

    "Uncle, I have something else to do, so Iбпll leave first."

    "Uncle, my house is on fire, I need to go and put it out."

    As soon as Lin Cunjian said this, a few people immediately wanted to escape. Lin Jiang waved his hand and the shopбпs formation closed instantly, blocking them.

    "Qinghuan Tower? Fine, I couldnбпt bear to go there myself, and you guys actually took Small Shadiao with you, and even spent my money?"

    Lin Jiang was furious, discussing things with the little fairy had different prices. Qinghuan Tower was so expensive, he used to only go once a year.

    "Uncle, we didnбпt bring Uncle Lin Cong, he brought us."

    "Yeah, Uncle, we all have families, we wouldnбпt go to such ces. He went on his own."

    "Exactly, Uncle, please donбпt misunderstand."

    Lin Cunjian and the others immediately abandoned Small Shadiao. Small Shadiao widened his eyes, experiencing the dangers of the human world for the first time.

    "Small Shadiao isnбпt a human, but you guys are."

    "Uncle, spare us, please."

    "The punishment for the crime of death can be avoided, but the punishment for the crime of staying alive is hard to forgive. Small Shadiao is prohibited from leaving the store for five years and must stay within a hundred meters of his residence. His sry and the value of the Beast Spirit Pill will be deducted for these five years. All of you, please write a letter of apology to Lin Die. Your monthly sry will be reduced by half. When the deducted sry covers my losses, and when it is considered over, the punishment for the Lin family will be separate."

    Lin Jiang calmly said. This matter is serious, but also not so serious. Lin Jiang absolutely refuses to suffer any losses. Why should he use his money to have a good time?

    The group immediately became worried. They all had families and homes. Losing half of their ie all of a sudden, what should they do? Will Lin Die kill them for this?

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Qinghuan Tower. Lin Jiang entered the sageбпs time and came out to the hall to have tea. He encountered several familiar faces gathered together. Lin Jiang had been in Shenmu City for over twenty years and had his own acquaintances.

    "Brother Xiao, itбпs been years since weбпve seen you."

    "Iбпve been in seclusion. I didnбпt expect to see you here."

    "Haha, it seems the little fairy in the tower is going to suffer again. Youбпve been in seclusion for three years, you must have great power."

    "Indeed, take a look. Itбпs solid."

    Lin Jiang patted his waist, strong as iron, have you seen it?

    "Look at how awesome you are, Iбпm not convinced, letбпspareter."

    "Half-time break, Iбпm in for the long haul. What were you guys just talking about, so happy?"

    "We were talking about the Shenmu Sect. Brother Xiao went into seclusion, didnбпt you know?"

    "How do you know he went into seclusion, tell us, whatбпs going on?"

    "Hehe, there might be a war between the Shenmu Sect and the Spiritual Moon Sect."

    "Is it that intense? Whatбпs going on, donбпt keep us in suspense."

    Lin Jiang was shocked, how many things did he miss during his three-year seclusion? Lin Cunjian and the others are really something, not even mentioning such a big event.

    "Did you know about the marriage between Duanmu Ling, the Chief of the Nascent Soul of the Shenmu Sect, and Xiao Lingyue, the Saintess of the Spiritual Moon Sect?"

    "I know, wasnбпt it a big deal? They have been engaged for many years."

    "Yes, at that time, the Shenmu Sect gave the Five Layered Divine Fruit as a dowry. Both sides agreed that once Xiao Lingyue came out of the Ancient Phoenix Secret Realm, they would get married. But Xiao Lingyue ran away and took the Five Layered Divine Fruit with them."

    "Elopement, wow, is it that exciting?"

    "Yes, it has been half a month already. The higher-ups of the Shenmu Sect have already gone to the Spiritual Moon Sect to demand an exnation. If they donбпt get one, there might be a war. They canбпt afford to lose face."

    "If it were me, I couldnбпt afford to lose that person either."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Running away from a marriage is even worse than breaking it off. Breaking off a marriage still leaves a chance to part ways amicably, but running away humiliates the other party. Both the Shenmu Sect and Duanmu Ling are respectable people.

    "Yes, now the Shenmu Sect is furious. Duanmu Ling is their chief, and his master is the Soul Changing Ancestor. They have gone to the Spiritual Moon Sect to demand an exnation."

    "But we actually hope they fight. If they start fighting, hehe, weбпll make a huge profit."

    "Thatбпs right, with the scale of the Shenmu Sect, if thereбпs a full-scale war, tens of thousands of cultivators will be mobilized, and countless resources will be consumed. We have already stocked up on resources and are ready to sell."

    The people around them all agreed, they were the kind of people who like to watch excitement and take advantage of it. They had already stocked up resources and were waiting to sell them at high prices once the war started.

    Compared to these scheming merchants, Lin Jiang felt like a good person. He had only done so much.

    While a group of people were discussing this matter, Lin Jiang had lost interest. Although it was also a shocking piece of news, Lin Jiang didnбпt really feel like getting involved anymore. He needed to prepare himself as well.

    Before the wise manбпs time was up, Lin Jiang rushed back home and pulled Lin Cunjian and a few other people out of bed.

    "Do you know anything about Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sect?"

    "Yes, I know. Whatбпs the matter, Uncle?"

    "Do you have any stockpile?"

    "No, Shenmu Sect released a notice. Stockpiling is not allowed. Vitors will be expelled from Shenmu City."

    "Fool, just do whatever they tell you. Act immediately. As soon as itбпs light out, go and stock up. Purchase raw materials, and increase the supplies by a hundred times as usual."

    "Oh, Uncle, what should we do about the Shenmu Sect over there?"

    "Iбпll handle it, just follow my instructions."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand confidently. Traders like him always had a n. Of course, Lin Jiang was being cautious. Even if they didnбпt start a fight, they wouldnбпt lose out on the raw materials they brought in.

    "Yes, Uncle."

    "Go on, donбпt sleep, get ready."

    Lin Jiang eximed. Why would a cultivator sleep? We should all get ready to work. If we seed with this opportunity, we can make profits for years! Itбпs all about seizing the chance.

    Everyone, fearing the scrutiny of the Shenmu Sect, hurried to the trading post. They counted their stock and materials, preparing for arge-scale replenishment. Lin Cunjian and the others worried that the Shenmu Sect might investigate. They were all honest kids, never involved in such things before.

 Chapter 249:

    Chapter 249:

    Zhongzhou, home to the Spiritual Moon Sect.

    The Spiritual Moon Sect is also a big sect in Central Province, but its strength is not as strong as the Shenmu Sect. Besides the divine tree, the Shenmu Sect also has two Tao Achieving Ancestors and around seven or eight Void Achieving cultivators, while the Spiritual Moon Sect only has one Tao Achieving Realm cultivator, making their overall strength weaker than the Shenmu Sect.

    Moreover, the Spiritual Moon Sect is mainlyposed of women. Initially, it was a sect exclusively for female cultivators. However, female cultivators generally have less willpower and fighting spiritpared to males (with a few exceptions). So, after the Spiritual Moon Sect grew and expanded, they actively started epting male cultivators into their sect.

    Even now, about sixty to seventy percent of the cultivators in the Spiritual Moon Sect are women. This results in the sect having slightly lowerbat powerpared to others at the same level.

    Of course, having more female disciples is not without its advantages. One advantage is having more rtives. With the tradition of intermarriages, over the years, disciples from the Spiritual Moon Sect have married into almost all major sects in Central Province, making the Spiritual Moon Sect a rather unique existence.

    "Friend Huang, please donбпt worry. The Spiritual Moon Sect will definitely offer you an exnation for this matter."

    A Void Achieving cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect came forward to pacify the anger of the Void Achieving cultivator from the Shenmu Sect. The Tao Achieving cultivators from each sect rarely handle such matters. Most of the sectбпs affairs are managed by the Void Achieving and Soul Changing cultivators. At this moment, the intervention of a Void Achieving cultivator clearly showed the anger of the Shenmu Sect.

    "You have said this dozens of times already. I donбпt want empty promises. I need an urate response."

    "Friend Huang, the Spiritual Moon Sect is also a victim in this. We have also been deceived by Xiao Lingyue.""That may be your concern, but all I know is that the entire Central Province isughing at us. I need the Shenmu Sect to take responsibility."

    Taoist Friend Huang said coldly, the probability of the chief Nascent Soul of the Shenmu Sect entering the Soul Changing Period is very high. Throughout history, there have been very few failures, which means Duanmu Ling will definitely be a high-ranking member of the sect in the future.

    Now that the high-ranking members of the sect have been humiliated like this, the entire Shenmu Sect feels ashamed. If there is no exnation, how will the sect face its disciples? If Duanmu Lingбпs path is ruined because of this, it will not only damage the reputation of Shenmu Sect but also lose a skilled practitioner in Soul Changing. He canбпt help but feel angry.

    "Taoist Friend Huang, I guarantee you that within three months, we will definitely find Xiao Lingyue and bring them to the Shenmu Sect, what do you think?"

    "It doesnбпt matter. I have received orders from the sect. The alliance between Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sect is hereby terminated. Today, I will take back the dowry given by Shenmu Sect. Spiritual Moon Sect, please prepare."

    "What? Taoist Friend Huang, it shouldnбпt be like this."

    "Taoist Friend Huang, our two sects have been friends for a long time, why is it like this?"

    "Taoist Friend Huang, think carefully, donбпt ruin the friendship between our sects over such a small matter."

    Upon hearing the words of the Shenmu Sect, the Spiritual Moon Sect became worried. They all tried to advise each other. The dowry given by the Shenmu Sect was substantial. The outside world only knows about the Five Layered Divine Fruit given to the divine tree, but they know that there is much more than that.

    The most crucial issue is that they have already spent most of the dowry money and cannot repay it. For example, the Five Layered Divine Fruit was given to Xiao Lingyue, but Xiao Lingyue ran away. Now Spiritual Moon Sect has to make up for it. How can they afford it, even if they offer treasures of the same level, they wouldnбпt be willing to let go.

    "Mr. Huang was told to do this. Heбпs giving you three months to return the resources to Shenmu Sect. If you do, Shenmu Sect will pretend nothing happened and there will be a small loss. But if you donбпt, Shenmu Sect will personallye and take it."

    Taoist Friend Huang didnбпt care about being polite anymore. He had been here for several days, but Spiritual Moon Sect didnбпt give a direct answer. They had exhausted his patience.

    This marriage alliance was originally a little disadvantageous for Shenmu Sect, but Duanmu Ling liked that Xiao Lingyue, so Shenmu Sect was willing to form the alliance. But now, by ying with Shenmu Sect like this, Shenmu Sect couldnбпt tolerate it anymore.

    "Mr. Huangбн"

    "Letбпs go."

    Taoist Friend Huang and his group didnбпt say anything else. They got up and left. Duanmu Ling and the others followed closely, disregarding the persuasion of Spiritual Moon Sect and others, and insisted on leaving.

    "Master, is there really no way to salvage this situation?"

    On the way, Duanmu Ling said cautiously.

    "Do you think itбпs not embarrassing enough? Spiritual Moon Sect is ying with Shenmu Sect like this. Do you want our sect to keep embarrassing itself because of you?"

    "Master, Xiao Lingyue is not that kind of person. There may be a misunderstanding."

    "Misunderstanding, Duanmu Ling, have you gone crazy? Did the sect raise you to embarrass yourself? Is it just about a woman? Are there no women in Shenmu Sect anymore?"

    "Master, disciple didnбпt mean it like thatбн"

    "Shut up! Because of you, the sect has suffered heavy losses. Not only did you not think about recovering the losses for the sect, but you also want to speak up for the Spiritual Moon Sect. Let me tell you, if this matter falls apart, our sect will be at the forefront of attacking the Spiritual Moon Sect. No one can escape."

    "Yes, Master."

    Duanmu Ling fell silent, feeling a sense of sorrow in his heart. At first, he didnбпt like Xiao Lingyue. It was an arranged marriage by the sect. But after getting to know Xiao Lingyue, he discovered that she was different from other female cultivators and slowly started to like her.

    He had thought that their marriage would be a beautiful story. He would have a virtuous wife. But now, it had turned into a joke. Duanmu Ling had be aughingstock, and Shenmu Sect never once asked for his opinion.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sectбпs negotiations copsed. Although it wasnбпt publicly announced, the news had already spread throughout Shenmu City. Shenmu Sect had started mobilizing for war. Disciples from Shenmu Sect were seen in Shenmu City, increasing their procurement of resources for battle. The sectбпs subordinates had received orders to recall disciples from various ces, preparing to be deployed.

    And at Spiritual Moon Sect, the reaction was even more strange. Faced with the disturbance from Shenmu Sect, Spiritual Moon Sect should have taken steps to resolve this matter, and at the very least, they should have intensified their preparations for war. However, the situation at Spiritual Moon Sect has be chaotic.

    "Itбпs here, itбпs here! The reason behind the internal turmoil at Spiritual Moon Sect is now known."

    "Tell me quickly, tell me quickly."

    "Hey, I ran all the way here, Iбпm thirsty."

    "Come on, waiter, bring a pot of good tea."

    "Iбпm also a bit hungry."

    "Delicious dishes."

    "And alsoбн"

    "Beat him to death!"

    "Donбпt hit, donбпt hit, Iбпll talk."

    "Stop talking nonsense, speak quickly."

    "The reason behind the internal conflict of the Spiritual Moon Sect has been figured out. Shenmu Sect offered a generous gift to marry Xiao Lingyue. Besides the Five Layered Divine Fruit from the divine tree, there were also many other things. These things have already been divided among them, itбпs easy to swallow but hard to digest.

    But the main focus is still on the Five Layered Divine Fruit. It is a precious treasure that can break through Soul Changing. The divine fruit was given to Xiao Lingyue and taken away by Xiao Lingyue. So the Spiritual Moon Sect wanted to use their Moonlight Divine Herb as a recement and give it to Shenmu Sect. But there was disagreement within the Spiritual Moon Sect, some people disagreed and wanted to find Xiao Lingyue or use other female disciples as a substitute. The Spiritual Moon Sect couldnбпt reach a consensus and ended up fighting among themselves first."

    "Wow, is the Spiritual Moon Sect really that weak?"

    "A group of women really canбпt get anything done."

    "When women are in charge, everything copses, ancient people were right about that."

    After hearing the insider information, the group of people started discussing excitedly. They said all sorts of things, but what they were most happy about was that the two sides were about to fight. They had been looking forward to this war for months, waiting to make a fortune from it.

    Lin Jiang was also among this group of people because their identities were the same. They were owners of small businesses in Shenmu City. These cunning merchants were itching for this sh between the two sects.

    "Oh my goodness, all I wanted was to do some honest business. Why did I end up with this tricky opportunity? Do I have to change my name to Lin Tricky?"

    Lin Jiang sighed in his heart. Being tricky is not a legitimate business, after all.

    In the blink of an eye, Lin Jiang was immersed in a passionate discussion. In summary, there were two words used, "so delicious."

    After another half month, Shenmu Sect saw no response from Spiritual Moon Sect and officially ordered the assembly of troops. Many allied forces and cultivators from different ces rushed to the gate of Shenmu Sect. The personnel of Shenmu Sect also began openly purchasing war materials. The call of war sounded, and the merchantsбп revelry began as well.

    Sentence Correction

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 Chapter 250:

    Chapter 250:

    Zhongzhou, Spiritual Moon Sect

    At this time, the gate of Spiritual Moon Sect rang with intense bells. Countless disciples trembled in fear as they hid outside the protective formation of the gate, watching the troops of Shenmu Sect.

    "Everyone, remain calm. Donбпt panic."

    Xu Mingyue, a powerful Tao Achiever from Spiritual Moon Sect, angrily scolded, looking at these disciples with a deeply resentful heart.

    "Mingyue, donбпt worry, the other sects have agreed to negotiate with us, and Shenmu Sect wonбпtpletely destroy our Spiritual Moon Sect. If we give up some benefits, they will withdraw their troops."

    A handsome man next to Xu Mingyue said. This person is Xu Mingyueбпs husband, and he is also a high-ranking member of the Spiritual Moon Sect.

    "I know, I hate how these people are so weak. They always fight among themselves when things are not serious, but now that we have an external enemy, they be cowardly. Our sectбпs resources are wasted."

    Xu Mingyue said. Before me, the Spiritual Moon Sect only had female disciples, no male disciples. It was under my leadership that we started epting male disciples because I saw the shorings of our Sect.

    The female disciples are too weak when ites to real battles. Although not all of them, about seventy to eighty percent are. They may be good at scheming and plotting, but when ites to actual fighting, most of them are cowards."Letбпs take it step by step. Bncing yin and yang is the right path. Being too yin or too yang wonбпt work. Besides, the Spiritual Moon Sect is notcking skilled warriors."

    "Forget about it, letбпs focus on guarding the sect first."

    Xu Mingyue nodded. If every member of the Spiritual Moon Sect was not good at fighting, they wouldnбпt have reached their current status. They can only progress gradually.

    At the same time, outside the entrance of the Spiritual Moon Sect, two Tao Achieving Ancestors from the Shenmu Sect have also appeared. Although the Spiritual Moon Sect as a whole is not known for its fighting skills, their Xu Mingyue is famous for bringing the Spiritual Moon Sect from a third-rate sect in Zhongzhou to a first-rate sect. She is not an ordinary person.

    "Yи▓, I have received many requests from other sects, what about you?"

    "Same here, Xu Mingyue has been arranging marriages for our female disciples, and now theyбпreing to seek favors."

    "So, what do you think we should do, Yи▓? Shenmu Sect canбпt afford to offend all the major sects."

    "I understand. Right now, Shenmu Sect has lost its reputation and support. We should fight back and regain both."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect spoke. Xiao Lingyueбпs elopement has brought disgrace and loss to Shenmu Sect. Thatбпs why theyбпre angry and nning to fight back to regain their reputation and support.

    "Then, let the other two armies plunder first and take advantage, and then force Xu Mingyue to negotiate peace, apologize andpensate."

    "Okay."

    "I will go and prepare,unch the attack in one hour."

    "Alright, Iбпll keep an eye on Xu Mingyue. Sheбпs not to be underestimated."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect nodded. Shenmu Sect isunching an attack on Spiritual Moon Sect with three routes. They are the main force, while the other two routes are attacking other areas of Spiritual Moon Sect.

    After discussing, the two of them went to prepare. One hourter, Shenmu Sect formed their formation andunched an attack on the gate of Spiritual Moon Sect. The two sides immediately started fighting.

    Although Spiritual Moon Sect is not good at overallbat, they are skilled in defensive battles, especially with their gate formation. With the guidance of their higher-ups, led by Xu Mingyue, they defended solidly.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Shenmu Sect, gate

    Under the divine tree, Lin Batian was practicing magic. He has been here for nearly five years. During the first three years, he observed the influence of the Green Emperor magic left by Shenmu Ancestor and gained some insights. After that, he started practicing it himself.

    However, only after personally practicing did he realize that these four secret techniques are difficult to master. At the moment, he has not achieved proficiency yet, and he doesnбпt know how many years it will take to seed.

    Fortunately, the Eternal Spirit Liquid provided by Shenmu Ancestor has restored his body. Otherwise, he wouldnбпt have the lifespan to continue enduring.

    "Look carefully, Brother Lu, it is indeed Lin Batian."

    In the clouds outside the mountain gate, Yu familyбпs Ancestor spoke to Lu Family Ancestor. There was a shining light in his brow, a special Magical Eye that could ovee barriers of enchantments. He had already seen what Lin Batian was doing.

    "Is Lin Batian practicing the secret arts of the four major families?"

    "Yes, I see him performing the Three Heads and Six Arms technique. He already has two heads and four arms. Heбпs almost there."

    "This youngster indeed has great ambition. He wants to learn the Green Emperorбпs technique and merge it with the four secret arts."

    "Yes, if he seeds, all four families will suffer. Even with Void Achieving cultivation, he will have thebat strength of Tao Achieving."

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor nodded. In the past, the Green Emperor dominated the cultivation world and even the Demon Emperor of the Demon n couldnбпt stop him. He relied on these four secret arts,bined into one. They knew very well how powerful it was.

    "Brother Yu, where do you think Lin Batian obtained these secret arts? The four major families restrict them to only those who have undergone Soul Changing. Even if Lin family gave him the ying God Spear in advance, what about our own secret arts?"

    "The secret arts of the four major families are shared by the higher-ups. If Lin family can give him the ying God Spear, they can give him the other three as well. Itбпs not surprising at all."

    "I always feel like itбпs not that simple. There must be something we overlooked."

    "Brother Lu is worrying too much. Even if Tao Achieving of the Lin family is alive, they may not be our opponents. We should focus on killing Lin Batian first and not give him a chance."

    "Alright, itбпs a pity that Shenmu Ancestor is biased, otherwise we wouldnбпt need to do this."

    The Lu Family Ancestor nodded. They already knew that Lin Batian wouldnбпtst long in a battle against them using the Burning Life Secret Method. But who knew Shenmu Ancestor would favor the Lin family so much?

    "Letбпs do it."

    After discussing their n, they both acted simultaneously. The Lu Family Ancestor instantly threw something that exploded on the protective formation at the entrance of the Shenmu Sect. A hole appeared in the formation and they both went inside.

    Then, the Lu Family Ancestor attacked Shenmu Ancestor, while the Yu Familyбпs Ancestor went after Lin Batian.

    "How daring!"

    When the protective formation was broken, Shenmu Ancestor reacted quickly. A giant eye opened in the midst of a massive tree, followed by countless falling leaves.

    Seemingly ordinary leaves made both ancestral figures change their expressions. They switched from attacking to defending and set up defenses in front of them. Then, those leaves suddenly changed in appearance and exploded like bombs in front of them.

    "Three heads and six arms."

    "Ever-changing."

    Both ancestral figures instantly transformed into dharma bodies and engaged in battle. Shenmu Ancestor also broke off a branch from the divine tree and transformed it into a simr dharma body forbat.

    "Kid from the Lin family, climb up the tree."

    "Shenmu Ancestor, can you handle it?"

    "Maybe not outside, but here, even two more wonбпt be a problem."

    Shenmu Ancestor roared loudly, expressing his confidence. He believed that it was impossible for Tao Achieving to kill him here. Otherwise, all his efforts over the past tens of thousands of years would have been in vain.

    "Heavenly Extreme Spirit Fire."

    Lu Family Ancestor sneered, and suddenly countless spirit fires surged out from within his dharma body, rushing towards Shenmu Ancestor.

    The Shenmu Ancestorбпs eyes narrowed and muttered under his breath, "This little bunny is well-prepared, huh?"

    But he remained fearless, his dharma body continued forward, enduring the terrifying spiritual fire attack from Lu Family Ancestor. In no time, his entire dharma body was engulfed in mes, yet the Shenmu Ancestor paid no attention.

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor, on the other hand, bypassed the Shenmu Ancestor and headed towards Lin Batian. Lin Batian flew upwards, not engaging in a fight with Yu familyбпs Ancestor. He had no intention of fighting, as he didnбпt need to give his all on Shenmu Sectбпs territory.

    The true form of the Shenmu Ancestor was an extremely massive divine tree. Its trunk stood straight, which was originally just one trunk within ten thousand meters. But now, branches began appearing from all directions. These branches were like agile serpents, swiftly attacking Yu familyбпs Ancestor, blocking his path.

    These branches may not be very powerful, but their sheer numbers were overwhelming. They could wipe out a heap of them and there would still be more. Meanwhile, Lin Batian had already vanished without a trace.

    "Elder Ancestor"

    The powerful guardians of the Shenmu Sect were also rmed. Void Achieving experts came to investigate and recognized the identities of the two individuals. They were furious that all four major families hade knocking at their door, it was simply too much to bear.

    "Activate the mountain guarding formation, not a single one of them shall escape today."

    "Call for their return and surround and kill them today."

    Shenmu Ancestor also immediately said, the Tao Achieving practitioners of the four major families are truly extraordinary and incredibly powerful. Unless he uses his true form, it will be difficult to defeat them. However, he wonбпt resort to his true form unless absolutely necessary.

    Because his true form is the foundation of Shenmu Sect, if he uses it, it will have a huge impact on Shenmu Sect. Shenmu Sect has Tao Achieving cultivators of its own, but itбпs not time for him to go all out yet.

    "Big Brother Yu, letбпs retreat. The surprise attack has failed."

    The Lu Family ancestor saw the body of the Shenmu Sect burn up, but a branch fell and the Shenmu ancestor regained his fighting power. He knew that this mission had failed, so he had to leave. If he didnбпt leave now, they wouldnбпt be able to escape.

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 Chapter 251:

    Chapter 251:

    Zhongzhou, Spiritual Moon Sect

    Xu Mingyue anxiously looked at the army of Shenmu Sect outside the mountain gate. The reinforcements that Spiritual Moon Sect had hoped for didnбпt appear. Her allies were perhaps willing to intercede for them, but they didnбпt want to confront Shenmu Sect directly.

    "Rtives, friends, none of them can be relied on. In the cultivation world, only strength is dependable."

    Xu Mingyue clenched her teeth and said to herself, "After this battle, I hope to awaken the disciples in the sect, so they no longer fantasize about relying on men or gaining benefits through marriage. Only our own strength can be trusted."

    At the same time, outside the mountain gate, two elders of Shenmu Sect were in the midst of the attack when they suddenly received news from Shenmu Sectбпs stationed Void Achieving cultivators, causing their expressions to change.

    "The four major families haveunched a surprise attack on the sect. What should we do, senior brother?"

    "Donбпt panic, with Shenmu Ancestor present, the sect has nothing to worry about."

    "But Shenmu Ancestor wants us to go back and support, to take down two Tao Achieving cultivators."

    "After we leave, what should we do? When the timees, it may be all for nothing, like drawing water with a bamboo basket. Our disciples could also be in danger. We must proceed cautiously."Ancestor He said, he hated the four great ns very much right now. It is their thriving moment, yet they have actually dug into his old nest. If Spiritual Moon Sect bes stronger, they might even face the crisis of beingpletely destroyed.

    "Senior Brother, think of a solution quickly."

    "Donбпt panic, donбпt expose any weaknesses. Gather our forces and have them stop making noise. I will handle this."

    Ancestor He immediately realized what to do. He halted the attack and then gathered the troops. Once the troops were assembled, Ancestor He stepped forward and shouted.

    "Xu Mingyue, why donбпt youe out and talk?"

    "Ancestor He, you have your army pressuring us. What is there to talk about?"

    "So, are you nning to annihte our sect?"

    "How does Ancestor He want to negotiate?"

    Xu Mingyue finally walked out of the mountain gate. The Spiritual Moon Sect is no match for the Shenmu Sect at all. Ancestor He wanted to talk, and she couldnбпt ask for more.

    "The Spiritual Moon Sect will give up the Siling Mountainбпs Spiritual Stone Mine and the surrounding three hundred miles ofnd. They will return the Five Layered Divine Fruit or equivalent spiritual medicine. They willpensate the Shenmu Sect for the loss of two billion spirit stones due to their military actions. They will publicly apologize and send one hundred female disciples to serve as ves in the Shenmu Sect. I will withdraw the troops after this."

    "Ancestor He is being too deceitful."

    Upon hearing this, Xu Mingyue became furious. The Siling Mountainбпs Spiritual Stone Mine is arge mine under the control of the Spiritual Moon Sect. It produces millions of spirit stones every year and can continue mining for hundreds of years. This is like cutting off a piece of flesh from the Spiritual Moon Sect. As for sending one hundred female disciples as ves to the Shenmu Sect, it is a humiliation to the Spiritual Moon Sect.

    "Either negotiate or fight, Xu Mingyue. Youбпve seen it too, who else in Zhongzhou is willing to fight for you?"

    "The Spiritual Moon Sect is willing topensate the Shenmu Sect with the Moonlight Divine Herb instead of the Five Layered Divine Fruit. They willpensate for the loss of one billion spirit stones due to the Shenmu Sectбпs military actions. They will publicly apologize. This is my bottom line, there is no room for negotiation. If you want more, then letбпs fight. Although the Spiritual Moon Sect is mainlyposed of women, we still have our dignity."

    "I see that youбпre looking for death. Otherwise, letбпs fight one-on-one. If I lose, I will immediately withdraw and forget about this matter. But if you lose, you must agree to what I just said, plus one more thing, you will be my concubine."

    "You, surnamed He, how dare you!"

    "Yes, I dare to. What about it? Do you dare?"

    "Youбн"

    Xu Mingyue was breathing heavily, but she really didnбпt dare to agree. They had simr abilities, but Shenmu Sect was a powerful and well-established sect, while Xu Mingyue knew she was no match for them in terms of strength and knowledge. They practiced different secret techniques and used different weapons. Xu Mingyue knew she was not their equal.

    "Hurry up and decide, either fight or talk."

    "Iбн"

    Just as Xu Mingyue was about to rx and lower the stakes, she suddenly heard a voice in her ear saying, "Mingyue, I received news that the Shenmu Sect is in trouble. The four major families of the Qing State have attacked the Shenmu Sectбпs gates, and Shenmu Ancestor is engaged in a desperate battle."

    As soon as the voice fell, Xu Mingyue moved quickly and immediately returned to the gates of the Spiritual Moon Sect. This surprised Shenmu Sect Ancestor, as they knew that Xu Mingyue must have learned the secret behind their ceasefire.

    There was no other way, the battle between the four major families and Shenmu Ancestor created too muchmotion. It couldnбпt be kept a secret, so they wanted to resolve it quickly.

    "Whatбпs going on? Where did you get the news?"

    "Multiple sources have confirmed it. There is a lot of activity."

    "The Shenmu Sect has a long-standing heritage. It should have connections with ancient family ns like the Four Great Families. Why did they start fighting?"

    "I donбпt know either, but Mingyue, you must not agree to anything from them. They want to go back even more than we do now."

    "Understood."

    Xu Mingyue nodded, and then she arrived at the mountain gate once again.

    "Ancestor He, Ancestor Yu, letбпs talk about how to proceed."

    "What do you want to discuss?"

    "The Spiritual Moon Sect wants to apologize andpensate you with the Moonlight Divine Herb for your Five Layered Divine Fruit, as well as two billion spirit stones. How does that sound?"

    "Heheбн"

    Ancestor He sneered, this offer was even lower than before.

    "Senior brother, agreed, Shenmu Ancestor is urging, the mountain gate is urgent."

    "Junior brother, how can we give up now?"

    "Senior brother, Spiritual Moon Sect is weak, after this matter, the two sects will surely be regarded as enemies. We canбпt swallow Spiritual Moon Sect in one bite anyway, we can slowly absorb and merge with them in the future. Right now, we need to save the mountain gate. Tao Achieving Ancestor is in a fierce battle, itбпs easy to destroy the mountain gate. If we upset Shenmu Ancestor, Shenmu Sect will be finished."

    "Alright, letбпs do it like this then."

    As soon as Ancestor He heard this, he immediately felt it made sense. They werenбпt confident they could conquer Spiritual Moon Sect in one battle anyway. They could take it slowly in the future.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Letбпs go."

    Shenmu Sectбпs mountain gate, without Shenmu Ancestor desperately fighting, Ancestor He of the Yu family and Ancestor He of the Lu family broke through the Shenmu Sectбпs mountain gate array and disappeared from everyoneбпs sight.

    It took a while before Tao Achieving Ancestor of Shenmu Sect appeared in front of everyone.

    "Ancestor, we arrivedte."

    "You know youбпrete. A woman can keep you all waiting for so long. If I were you, I would find a ce to hang myself."

    Shenmu Ancestor became very angry. The disciples below the gate didnбпt know what was going on. How could they not know? Shenmu Ancestorбпs situation was impossible to fight back. They should havee back long ago.

    "Ancestor, the disciples have learned their lesson."

    "Enough talking, how do we resolve this?"

    "We canбпt just let it go easily. We will go to Qing State to demand justice."

    "Start the war and wipe them out."

    "We canбпt win."

    Ancestor He sighed bitterly. The four major ns upy the entire Qing State. How can the Shenmu Sect, with such a small territory, be their opponent?

    "Waste, all of them are useless. The mountain gate has been invaded by others, yet they donбпt dare to show any courageбн"

    Shenmu Ancestor continued scolding, both of them bowed their heads and endured the scolding. They were not as willful as Shenmu Ancestor. They had to consider the whole Shenmu Sect. Spiritual Moon Sect was weak, so they bullied them. The four major families were powerful, so they could only express themselves and not dare to send arge army to fight. This is what a qualified leader should do.

    After scolding for a while, Shenmu Ancestor couldnбпt be bothered with them and they ran away immediately as if granted amnesty. Shenmu Ancestor returned to the treetops, where Lin Batian had been hiding for a long time.

    "A group of waste, I am so angry!"

    "Shenmu Ancestor, donбпt be angry. If it were me, I would also act in the same way. After all, the four major families are strong."

    "Then whatбпs the point of cultivating immortality? As a prestigious Tao Achieving Ancestor, you canбпt even enjoy the satisfaction of revenge. Itбпs better to be an ordinary person."

    "Everyone has different pursuits, we shouldnбпt demand too much. If the two senior brothers were just independent cultivators, solitary individuals, then there would be nothing to fear. But they have a big family."

    "In the end, they are still worthless. So many years have passed, but they havenбпt even reached the Disaster Crossing Period."

    Lin Batian fell silent. This old manбпs personality is indeed a bit strange. He wonбпt say anything more. It has been like this for hundreds of thousands of years, unchangeable.

    "How is your secret technique practice going? Hurry up and finish, then get lost!"

    "It will take some more time. The four major secret techniques are not easy to master."

    "Back in the day, the Green Emperor achieved mastery in less than ten years. I think you will never achieve it in your lifetime."

    "I wouldnбпt dare topare myself to the Green Emperor."

    Lin Batian shook his head. The disciples of the four major families grew up listening to stories about the Green Emperor. They knew how powerful he was. He could defeat enemies from different realms, killing Golden Core cultivators with Nascent Soul cultivation, and Nascent Soul cultivators with Soul Changing cultivation. Moreover, he fought face-to-face without using schemes, unlike Lin Batian, who relied on cunning tactics.

    "I donбпt want to talk to you anymore. Itбпs boring. Just go away."

    "Yes, Elder."

    Lin Batian smiled and then flew down from the treetop. The treetop of the Shenmu Ancestor was not essible to everyone.

    In the following days, the Shenmu Sect first negotiated with the Mingyue Sect. The Mingyue Sect apologized andpensated for the losses. Although thepensation was not much, it restored the honor of the Shenmu Sect and they didnбпt suffer any loss themselves. The other two groups from the Shenmu Sect were busy raiding and plundering within the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs territory, and they didnбпt need to return any of the spoils.

    After the incident, the leader of the Spiritual Moon Sect took the elite members of the sect and went to the Qing State for justice. They first conquered several small cities and then demanded the four major ns to take responsibility.

    The ancestors of the Yu family and the Lu family appeared and had a fight with the ancestor of the Shenmu Sect. Both sides were evenly matched and couldnбпt defeat each other, so the matter was dropped.

    However, afterward, the Shenmu Sect announced sanctions on the Qing State and expelled all Qing State businesses from their territory. There was a clear trend of the two families severing ties with each other.

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 Chapter 252:

    Chapter 252:

    Shenmu City in the central region

    The celebration of corrupt merchants came to an end. A group of them gathered at Qinghuan Tower to celebrate. This time, both small and big businesses in Shenmu City made a profit. It was just a matter of how much they earned.

    However, they still found the profit not satisfying enough. They all expressed their wishes for a fierce fight between the Shenmu Sect and the Spiritual Moon Sect that wouldst for ten or eight years. They believed they could make tons of money that way.

    Lin Jiang shook his head at this. These people had too big of an appetite. It was a bit dangerous to be associated with them. He wondered if they were not afraid of retaliation from the Shenmu Sect by making money this way.

    So Lin Jiang quietly slipped away and returned to the business establishment. The people there were working overnight to tally the profits.

    "Uncle, we roughly calcted it. We earned nearly as much profit in three months as we did in the past two years. We still have a lot of raw materials, so we wonбпt need to purchase for at least three to five years. We sold too little."

    Lin Cunjian said to Lin Jiang. They startedter, and Lin Jiangбпs heart is not dark enough. Other businesses directly coborate with the steward of the Shenmu Sect and buy their supplies inrge quantities. Lin Jiang didnбпt establish that connection and instead capitalized on the Shenmu Sectбпs increased military strength, profiting from the rising market prices.

    "Cunjian, you must remember that each person can only earn wealth within their own knowledge. They may earn a little more due to certain opportunities, but often it will slip away in other ways. What canбпt be seized, one must be content. Do you understand?"

    "Yes, uncle.""Everyone has been extremely tired these few months. We will give everyone double pay for two months, and in a few days, we will have a gathering and prepare some delicious food."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Most of the goods in their business were made by themselves, with only a small portion provided by cooperating cultivators. Lin Cunjian and the others have been exhausted these past months, so Lin Jiang couldnбпt be too demanding. Of course, he would earn the most, that goes without saying.

    Since Lin Jiang lost his properties, he started to handle business matters properly. He owns all the shares in the business, while Lin Cunjian and the others are just employees. At most, they have slightly more consciencepared to other cunning merchants.

    "Thank you, uncle."

    Lin Cunjian replied. The descendants of the Lin family donбпt think Lin Jiang is deceiving them, because he gives them higher sriespared to other businesses. Plus, the business takes care of their food and lodging, so they receive much better treatment than other people.

    In their hearts, they felt grateful towards Lin Jiang and believed that Lin Jiang had already treated them like family, not treating one another badly.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Bing State, a Wilderness outpost.

    Lin Jiang was boasting with a group of independent cultivators. Anyway, they were all strangers to each other and might never see each other again after today. It didnбпt matter if they boasted.

    Of course, Lin Jiang wasnбпt foolishly bragging about how wealthy he was. He only boasted about some extravagant things, making everyoneugh out loud.

    Drinking, boasting, and finding women were excellent ways for independent cultivators to relieve stress, especially in the Wilderness. No one knows how long they can survive there, and every step in the Wilderness could be a trap, causing immense mental pressure.

    "Bang!"

    In the midst of the conversation, a burly man pushed open the door, emitting a strong aura that silenced the scene. Everyone turned their heads and saw a heavily built man standing there. Some quietly used their divine sense to investigate and their expressions changed afterwards.

    "Son,e here."

    Lin Jiang didnбпt care at all and waved his hand at the big man.

    With this, the independent cultivator who bragged with Lin Jiang at the same table was shocked. So it turns out you werenбпt bragging, huh? You really do whatever you want with your son at the Nascent Soul stage.

    Small Shadiao sat down next to Lin Jiang and saw food and wine on the table. He grabbed it and started eating without fear of being poisoned. After all, he had the body of a monster with tough skin and flesh. Even ordinary poison couldnбпt kill him.

    "Son, how was the harvest?"

    "See for yourself."

    Small Shadiao tossed out a bag, and Lin Jiang used his spiritual sense to check it. He immediately showed a face full of surprise.

    "Iбпll take my leave first."

    The independent cultivators at the same table scattered. They were at different levels and couldnбпt chat together, so it was better to leave early.

    "You did well this time. You previously took over four hundred thousand spirit stones from me, rounded up to five hundred thousand. Adding the interest, itбпs about eight hundred thousand. As we are family, Iбпll only take a small profit, which is not considered usury. I think the gains this time are worth three to five thousand spirit stones. Young man, keep up the good work, and next year Iбпll find you a little female bird."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said happily, after the battle between Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sect ended, Lin Jiangбпs days in Shenmu City became ordinary. Meanwhile, Small Shadiao had umted a huge debt and was banned from leaving. In desperation, he asked Lin Jiang for help to go to Wilderness to hunt demons and repay the debt. Lin Jiang agreed and handed over his business to Lin Cunjian and others, while he took Small Shadiao to Wilderness.

    Of course, Lin Jiang stayed at the base and talked big, while Small Shadiao did most of the work.

    Upon hearing Lin Jiangбпs words, Small Shadiao suddenly lost his appetite. He mmed the table and asked. Where is the waiter?

    "Excuse me, is there anything you need?"

    "Light amp."

    "Ah!"

    "Itбпs too dark."

    "Ah!"

    "Go quickly."

    "Yes, yes."

    The little buddy didnбпt dare argue with the Nascent Soul expert, so he quickly activated the lighting formation.

    Small Shadiao nced at Lin Jiangбпs face and said. Itбпs still too dark, canбпt see clearly.

    "Iбпve told you not to hang out with shady folks. Look at this kid, now even picking up nonsense."

    "Youбпre really ruthless."

    Small Shadiao was so angry that he spat blood. This time, he hunted three third-level demonic beasts, each worth at least tens of thousands of spirit stones. But under his jerk of an owner, they suddenly became only three to five thousand?

    "Thanks for thepliments, my son."

    "If youбпre capable, donбпt just pick on me. Go bully others if you can."

    "Iбпm just useless. Iбпm just trying to act tough. Go ahead, bite me."

    "I want to changeбн"

    "Ahem, be more discreet, you are a human now."

    Small Shadiao looked sad and angry, and stopped talking. He lowered his head and ate his meal quickly. He had learned from experience not to argue with his master, because he could never win. No one could outsmart his master.

    Lin Jiangughed loudly. He loved seeing Small Shadiao trying to defeat him, but unable to do so. It was very satisfying.

    In the following days, neither Lin Jiang nor Small Shadiao went outside. They stayed in their room and dealt with their prey. Small Shadiao didnбпt know much about medicinal herbs, so he relied on his instincts to find them. As a result, he didnбпt find many, and instead focused on hunting demons.

    However, different parts of the demons had different values, so they had to be carefully separated. This required precision, something Small Shadiao wasnбпt good at, so Lin Jiang had to do it himself.

    Once the prey was divided, Lin Jiang didnбпt sell it to the shops in the outpost. He had stayed at the Wilderness outpost of the Five Elements Sect for many years and knew how shady the shops there were. He wasnбпt going to give those dishonest merchants a chance. Instead, he nned to take everything back to Shenmu City and keep all the profits for himself.

    After a few days of rest, Lin Jiang once again bid farewell to Small Shadiao, encouraging him to continue working hard. He wanted him to pay off the debt he owed and earn enough food for the future.

    As soon as they went outside, they saw a huge flying boatnding. The boat had a crescent moon-shaped emblem on it. Lin Jiang thought to himself, "Isnбпt this the symbol of the Spiritual Moon Sect? Why are they here?"

    Sure enough, arge group of beautiful female cultivators came down from the flying boat, and the independent cultivators at the base were amazed. Some people have been here for decades, and even the female pigs are graceful and attractive.

    But as the leading female cultivatorбпs powerful divine sense swept over, the group of peopleбпs faces changed, and they dared not look her in the eye.

    The leading female cultivator sensed that her divine sense disappeared here in Small Shadiao, and her eyes met with Small Shadiao, acknowledging each other silently.

    "Dad, do you think she likes me? She smiled at me."

    "Shut up quickly, you donбпt understand anything, go away."

    Lin Jiang quickly covered his mouth. That person is a powerful expert in Soul Changing. Are you looking to die? You, a mere fourth-stage rookie, are not worth her attention.

    "Boring."

    Small Shadiao felt speechless and quickly left the base, returning to the life of aborer, earning money for her boss.

    The guardian of the base, Nascent Soul, appeared and had a conversation with the Soul Changing cultivator of the Spiritual Moon Sect. The power behind this base is from the Bing State, but they have a good rtionship with the Spiritual Moon Sect, so they naturally have to arrange a suitable ce for them.

    When the people from Spiritual Moon Sect left, a group of cultivators who practiced alone immediately started discussing again.

    "Those girls are so pretty, I wonder if they are here for business. If they are, I would do anything to help their business."

    "I think you donбпt know whatбпs good for you, look closely, those are people from Spiritual Moon Sect."

    "What is Spiritual Moon Sect?"

    "Spiritual Moon Sect is a sect in the central region. They have a powerful leader called a Tao Achieving Ancestor."

    "Hiss."

    "Do you still want to help take care of them?"

    "Well, thatбпs not a bad idea. With my looks and charm, seducing a few female disciples shouldnбпt be a problem, right?"

    The group of cultivators couldnбпt stop talking about women for even three sentences, and a cheerful atmosphere filled the air.

    "Why is Spiritual Moon Sect here? Are they hunting demons? Usually, major sects donбпt hunt demons."

    Someone asked with curiosity. Top sects donбпt engage in demon hunting. Firstly, they donбпt care about the money involved. At most, they establish outposts in the Wilderness. Dangerous tasks are usually handled by independent cultivators. The sect leaders prefer to exploit from their high positions. Secondly, if the major sects get involved, they might exert too much force and provoke a counterattack from the demon race. It could even lead to a war between humans and demons, which would be detrimental to all parties involved.

    "Itбпs probably because of the traitor Xiao Lingyue from Spiritual Moon Sect."

    Someone replied. The conflict between Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sect has caused quite a stir. Even in Bing State, the news has spread widely. Well-informed people have known about it for a while.

    Lin Jiang also felt that this possibility was very likely. He suddenly sensed danger and realized that it wouldnбпt be safe here anymore.

    "Should I run away?"

    Lin Jiang hesitated. He had only been here for less than two months and hadnбпt earned any money yet. Should he risk his life for money or prioritize his life over money?

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 Chapter 253:

    Chapter 253:

    Bing State, Wilderness

    In a valley somewhere, Small Shadiao held a bunch of flowers and handed them to ady in a red dress. Thedy blushed and took the flowers, and the surrounding area was filled with the cheerful sound of birds singing.

    "Big Brother Lin, is this what humans call romance?"

    "Hongбпer, this is romance. Look, itбпs written in human books. Flowers represent romance and love."

    Small Shadiao took out a book from their bag and flipped it open for thedy in red to see.

    "Big Brother Lin is amazing. He can read human writing!"

    "Itбпs not a big deal. I have a status among humans. I have a servant named Xiao Yi who massages me and cooks delicious food for me. Look, I brought some for you too."

    Small Shadiao casually said, then took out a variety of delicious food from their bag. Thedy in red looked at the bag with shining eyes.

    After reaching the fourth level of advancement, many members of the demon n gained the ability to create storage bags. However, these bags were not as useful as a cultivatorбпs storage bag and couldnбпt hold as much. Moreover, the demon nбпs storage bags could also create many wonderful things.Small Shadiao followed thedyбпs gaze and immediately understood. They took out a storage bag from their pocket and said. Hongбпer, this is a gift from your big brother.

    "Brother is really kind."

    "Hongбпer, try this cake. Itбпs a secret technique of my servant, something even human girls canбпt taste."

    "Mmm, itбпs so sweet."

    "No matter how sweet the cake is, it canбпt be as sweet as my Hongбпer."

    Little Shadiao saw cream on the corner of thedy in redбпs mouth. He lowered his head, rolled his tongue, and licked the cream clean.

    "Brother is really naughty."

    Surprisingly, thedy in red blushed. Little Shadiao burst intoughter, put his arm around thedyбпs shoulder, and led her into the cave in the valley.

    "Dad, Dad, I want to eat too!"

    "I want to eat too!"

    Before entering the cave, a big group of bright red birds flew over, each of them speaking in words.

    "Go, go, go."

    Small Shadiao wasnбпt as friendly with these birds as before. With a wave of his hand, he disgustedly told them to go away, saying that he was just joking about being their father, but they actually believed him.

    Small Shadiao led the woman in the red dress into the cave. It took a whole hour for themotion in the cave to finally stop.

    After shamelessly spending several days like this, Small Shadiao felt that he should leave. He said to the woman in the red dress, "Hongбпer, I have to go."

    "Brother, please donбпt go. Stay here."

    "No, I canбпt. I still have a bunch of servants waiting for me in the human world, relying on me to support them. Next time, Iбпll bring you pretty clothes and delicious food, okay?"

    "Okay, brother is really nice."

    "But Hongбпer, buying things in the human world requires money. What should I do if I donбпt have any money?"

    "Brother, werenбпt the magical beasts I gave youst time enough?"

    "No, itбпs not enough. I can only exchange one cake for a third-tier magical beast."

    "Oh, I see. Then Iбпll have them send more magical beasts to you."

    "Hongбпer, I canбпt take any more of your things."

    Small Shadiao felt secretly delighted, but he firmly replied. How can I ept a womanбпs things?

    "Brother, Iбпm willingly giving them to you. Please ept them."

    "Cannot have"

    "Brotherбн"

    "A true manly man, if he says no, then itбпs a no."

    "Brotherбн"

    "Fine, Iбпll reluctantly ept it."

    After several rounds of back and forth tugging, Small Shadiao finally agreed, and the woman in red clothes smiled happily.

    Afterwards, the woman in red clothes walked out of the cave, her expression bing serious. She said to several giant red birds, "Go inform the fourth-level demon ns in different regions. The King needs to eat, so let them each send three third-level demon beasts."

    "Yes, mother"

    Several big birds flew away quickly. For the demon race, only those who have reached the fourth rank are able to transform, they are their own kind. Those below the fourth rank are ignorant beasts, only food for them. As the ruler of this area, it is normal for the demon race under him to provide food. Itбпs just that in the past few months, their king has had a bigger appetite.

    Small Shadiao saw this scene and felt extremely happy. This woman in red is not from the human race, but from the demon race. Her true form is a fourth-rank Luan Bird, and she is the Demon King of this area. She has dozens of fourth-rank demon beasts under hermand, much stronger than the Heavenly Wolf King from years ago.

    "Stupid humans, whatбпs the benefit of fighting to the death? Itбпs better to sacrifice a bit of beauty, to have as many prey as I want, hehe."

    Small Shadiao said in his heart, and afterwards, he took out a book and started reading. The title on the cover says "The Thirty-Six Strategies for Handsome Men."

    Small Shadiao watched eagerly, thinking that humans are generous, showing off such powerful moves to others. He had already learned several of them.

    In less than half a day, the corpses of eight third-level demons appeared in the valley. Small Shadiao first swallowed two of them in one gulp, then put them in the bag on his body. Next, he shuffled the bodies of the other demons to make it look like he killed them, and then put them in the storage bag.

    "Hongбпer, Iбпm leaving now. Iбпlle back to see you after some time."

    "Big brother, youбпreing back, right?"

    "I wille back, and Iбпll bring you beautiful clothes."

    Small Shadiao waved his hand and then flew up into the sky.

    "This silly bird, it even has the bloodline of the Luan Phoenix, but itбпs still being tricked by me. Hehe."

    Small Shadiao looked at the storage bag around his waist and looked down on the Luan Bird. It had even transformed and yet it was still wandering in the Wilderness. The human world is much more exciting with delicious food, fun things, and gentle, beautiful fairies to have heart-to-heart talks with.

    "Today is a good dayбн"

    Small Shadiao flew and hummed a song while heading towards the Wilderness stronghold.

    However, not long after flying, when a huge divine sense swept over him, Small Shadiaoбпs face changed dramatically. He was about to transform and quickly leave, but then arge descended from the sky, enveloping him inside.

    Small Shadiao was shocked, but he reacted swiftly. Countless wind des instantly formed to cut therge.

    "Youбпre really smart."

    Before therge was cut open, a voice sounded, followed by a woman in a green dress appearing in front of Small Shadiao.

    "Itбпs you."

    "You still remember me?"

    "Let me go! Why are you capturing me?"

    "Originally, I didnбпt n on catching you. My target was the Luan Bird King. But when I saw how clever you were, even using a handsome man strategy, I realized you were truly talented. So, I decided to catch you."

    Xiao Lingyue smiled and said that she had been hiding in the Wilderness for many years. Life in the Wilderness was tough because there were countless poisonous bugs and fierce beasts, and the cultivators were also very powerful. The most important thing was that she had to avoid being noticed by the Spiritual Moon Sect.

    So she had always wanted to tame a monster beast as her beast pet to help her survive in the Wilderness. She set her sights on the Luan Bird King, who was not only very fast but also extremely fierce. If she could make him her beast pet, she would have no problem hiding in the Wilderness.

    However, while she was keeping an eye on him, she saw the Small Shadiao appear. And surprisingly, he used a charming tactic to directly lure away the Luan Bird. This was really amazing! She had never seen a monster n with such high intelligence. It instantly made her excited, and she wanted to make the Small Shadiao her beast pet.

    "Why are you trying to capture me? Let me tell you, bird meat doesnбпt taste good. Itбпs sour."

    "I wonбпt eat you."

    "And the Aurora Falcon isnбпt valuable at all, really."

    "Donбпt worry, I wonбпt skin you and sell your bones."

    "Ah, youбпre interested in my body, arenбпt you?"

    Small Shadiao suddenly became terrified. The human n was so scary, they actually wanted to eat his body!

    Xiao Lingyue immediately had a frown on her face, wondering what this annoying bird was learning all the time.

    "Surrender and be my beast pet."

    "No, I already have an owner, and I have a Master-servant Contract inside me."

    "Donбпt worry, I have a secret method that can forcibly break the Master-servant Contract for you."

    Xiao Lingyue shook her head and pounced directly onto Small Shadiao. She didnбпt want to waste time talking, she would just capture him first and then slowly erase the contract with the secret method.

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 Chapter 254:

    Chapter 254:

    Bing State, Wilderness

    Lin Jiang abruptly opened his eyes from his meditation. He received a distress call from Small Shadiao, asking for help. Lin Jiang was about to leave and rescue Small Shadiao, but then suddenly stopped in his tracks.

    He was only at the early stage of the golden core, while Small Shadiao was a fourth-order monster n. If Small Shadiao was in danger, then the person who attacked must be at least Nascent Soul or even higher. Lin Jiang felt they were most likely at thete stage of Nascent Soul or even the peak.

    Because Small Shadiao is an Aurora falcon, which is very fast, even a weak Nascent Soul can escape from a fight with it.

    Faced with a Nascent Soul, Lin Jiang has absolutely no chance of winning, going would only mean certain death.

    "Itбпs not embarrassing to admit defeat, ask for help."

    Lin Jiang quickly gathered his things and didnбпt even have time to return his room before making a run for it.

    "Get lost, if you dare to follow, Iбпll kill you."

    Lin Jiang left the base and flew towards the direction of Central Province, with two golden core cultivators chasing after him. Lin Jiang didnбпt have time to fight with them, normally he would have defeated them, but not now.The two behind him shook their bodies and exchanged a nce, they didnбпt dare to chase anymore, their stealth had been discovered, it was a smart move.

    Activating his secret technique, Lin Jiang rushed to the residence of the Lin family at the fastest speed.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt consider going to the Five Elements Sect for reinforcements because it was too far away. Also, Zhang Wanjing is only in the early stage of Nascent Soul, he might not be able to defeat Small Shadiao. It wouldnбпt be of any use to go. As for the Soul Changing Sect, they have been intimidated by the four major families and havenбпt dared to leave Yun State for decades, so they might not be willing to help this time either.

    "Is my Third Auntie Lin Die here?"

    Lin Jiang grabbed a young Lin family member and asked.

    "Yes, Nephew, whatбпs wrong?"

    "Nothing, you continue ying."

    Lin Jiang let go of him and quickly went to look for Lin Die.

    Lin Die and Lin Ying were both at home. In recent years, Lin Batian had been at the Shenmu Sect. The Lin family had reduced their actions by half and mainly focused on monitoring the four major families, while also providing some support for the remaining disciples of the original four major sects.

    "Lin Wu, whatбпs wrong with you?"

    Lin Die saw Lin Jiang rushing in and asked with concern. She was afraid something had happened to the people from Shenmu City.

    "Third Auntie, Tenth Auntie, Iбпvee to ask for help. Small Shadiao is in trouble."

    "What happened to Lin Cong?"

    "Small Shadiao and I went to hunt monsters in the Wilderness of Bing State. I stayed at the base to rest while Small Shadiao went out. I received a warning from Small Shadiao, so I hurried back."

    "Is Lin Cong still alive?"

    "Yes, he is alive. I can sense that he is very anxious and keeps sending me messages."

    Lin Jiang said. The Master-servant Contract canбпt directly conveynguage, only simple messages. Lin Jiang can sense Small Shadiaoбпs current anxiety.

    "Something happened to Lin Cong, and the opponent is at least at thete Nascent Soul stage."

    "I also think so. Going back to the Five Elements Sect wonбпt help. Besides my master, I donбпt know anyone well. I guess Soul Changing wonбпt dare to move either. I can only ask for your help."

    "Your problem is my problem. I will go with you."

    "Third Sister, I want to go too."

    "Stay at home."

    "No need, thereбпs nothing happening at home now. The four major families areing to attack, and I canбпt stop them. I havenбпt gone out for many years, letбпs go together to take a look."

    Lin Ying said. If the four major familiese to attack, at the very least, Void Achieving will lead the team. Thereбпs a possibility that even the Tao Achieving boss will personally take action. Whether she stays or not, itбпs the same.

    "Alright, having one more person gives us a bit more assurance. Iбпll go call Lin Yu, quickly."

    Lin Die nodded, and then she called Big Shadiao, followed by a few high-ranking members of the Lin family. She gave them some instructions, and then the group set off for Bing State Wilderness.

    Big Shadiao transformed into its true form, a huge Aurora falcon appearing in front of the three of them. All three of them jumped onto Big Shadiaoбпs back, and with a p of its wings, Big Shadiao quickly disappeared from sight.

    Big Shadiao was extremely fast, and in half a day, they arrived at Bing State Wilderness. The immense pressure caused all the strongholds in the Wilderness to be on high alert, activating their formations one after another.

    "Lin Wu, where is Small Shadiao?"

    "Itбпs still ahead. The area ahead is the territory of the Wilderness Demon King, and it should be a Luan Bird King."

    "Is there a Luan Bird with the bloodline of the phoenix?"

    "Yes, it is said to be very powerful, sessfully passing the Soul Changing test, and there is an even more terrifying Luan Bird King deep in the Wilderness. Many people who attempted to exterminate this Luan Bird were defeated by the monsters in the depths of the Wilderness and died."

    Lin Jiang said that he learned all of this information from the Wilderness outpost. The Luan Bird in front of them is extremely powerful, and despite multiple attempts by humans to exterminate it, they have all failed.

    "Letбпs avoid touching the Luan Bird and go around it."

    "Okay, Iбпll lead the way."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He and Small Shadiao have a Master-servant Contract, which allows him to sense Small Shadiaoбпs presence and know where it is.

    The group disyed their imposing momentum, intimidating the monsters in the Wilderness. If theye across fourth-tier monsters, they would avoid them and not fight head-on, because they cannot win. This is the territory of the monsters, and they would only end up being surrounded.

    After going around in circles like this, they spent another day before finding Small Shadiaoбпs location, hidden in a valley covered in clouds and mist, clearly disguised with a formation.

    "Letбпs start the battle."

    Lin Die looked around and then said, Big Shadiao pped its wings, sending out a gust of wind des towards the clouds and mist. The wind des disappeared, and then a figure appeared, their form and face concealed by a ck robe.

    "Indeed smart, you know to find help."

    Xiao Lingyue saw Lin Jiang, who had been sought out by Aurora Falconбпs owner. This was something she had expected.

    "Soul Changing."

    Lin Die furrowed her brow. She thought it was done by someone in theter stage of Nascent Soul, but she didnбпt expect the other party to be Soul Changing.

    "Are there also pairs of Aurora falcons?"

    Xiao Lingyue looked at Big Shadiao and felt even more delighted. Big Shadiao had surpassed Small Shadiao by several decades in cultivation and had a stronger cultivation base.

    "Senior, the Aurora falcon already has an owner. Is it not right to snatch someoneбпs beast pet?"

    "Isnбпt the cultivation world all about the strong being respected? I am stronger than him, so what if I snatch his beast pet?"

    "Does that mean if I find someone stronger, I can kill you?"

    "Haha, it doesnбпt matter. If you have the capability, go ahead and find someone."

    Xiao Lingyueughed and said, in the world of cultivation, itбпs all about the strong dominating the weak. Even though she is strong, she doesnбпt think that anyone can easily find Soul Changing or Void Achieving to help them.

    "Third Sister, you go find Father, Iбпll stop her."

    "Okay, be careful, Iбпll be right back."

    Lin Die nodded, then told Big Shadiao to leave.

    "If youe, youбпre not allowed to leave."

    Xiao Lingyue shouted and directly attacked Big Shadiao and Lin Die.

    "Go."

    Lin Ying was fast to react. She held the Sagittarius Bow in her hand and shot an arrow. Xiao Lingyue managed to dodge the spiritual light, but to her surprise, the light was able to track her and chased after her from behind.

    "Boom."

    Xiao Lingyue could only turn around and shatter the spiritual light, while Lin Ying had already shot seven or eight arrows. The arrows from the Sagittarius Bow donбпt require arrowheads, they only need the support of spiritual power.

    Seeing this, Xiao Lingyue directly used a magic treasure as a defense, while she moved towards Lin Ying. Lin Ying didnбпt want to fight head-on with Xiao Lingyue, so she immediately activated a secret technique to escape. The bow and arrow are long-range treasures, she needs to control the distance.

    As for Lin Jiang, he had already kept his distance, not even able to see clearly when using the Magical Eye. Itбпs not that heбпs afraid, itбпs just that he couldnбпt afford to get involved. The aftermath of their battle was only at a level that Lin Jiang could barely support.

    Lin Ying is not a match for Xiao Lingyue, after all, their realms are different. So Lin Ying can only use guerri tactics, continuously harassing from a distance. But even so, itбпs extremely dangerous, sheбпse close to being caught by Xiao Lingyue several times.

    "Where did she learn such amazing footwork?"

    Even Xiao Lingyue was impressed, Lin Yingбпs footwork was incredibly agile, with her cultivation level she couldnбпt even catch her.

    Lin Ying was ruthless and didnбпt say much, she continued to shoot arrows from a distance. The Lin family has a deep foundation and a variety of secret techniques. After obtaining the Sagittarius Bow, she spent nearly a hundred years specifically practicing her footwork. Otherwise, how would she dare to stay alone?

    "Oh my goodness, why are youing at me like that?"

    Xiao Lingyue couldnбпt catch Lin Ying, so in the blink of an eye, she charged towards Lin Jiang, who also ran for his life.

    Over these years, Lin Jiang has also learned more secret techniques, especially some powerful life-burning techniques. Among them, there is a secret technique called the Lamp Burning Technique, which is even more powerful than the Explosive Element Technique. It can use life force as energy to enhance speed, defense, and attack power. You can increase it as much as you want, as long as you have enough life force.

    When Lin Jiang saw Xiao Lingyue approaching, he immediately activated the Lamp Burning Technique. Two hundred units of life force vanished instantly, and his speed increased by nearly a hundred times, disappearing in front of Xiao Lingyueбпs eyes.

    Two hundred units of life force is currently Lin Jiangбпs limit, not the limit of the Lamp Burning Technique, but his own limit because of his limited talent. After years of cultivation, this is as far as he can go.

    But this still left Xiao Lingyue stunned. Was she encountering a ghost today? Either his agility was so extraordinary, or he didnбпt care about his life force at all. Was her Soul Changing technique so unimpressive?

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 Chapter 255:

    Chapter 255:

    Bing State, Wilderness.

    Xiao Lingyue is not foolish. Lin Die went to find reinforcements, and Lin Ying is keeping her upied. She canбпt even capture a hostage. If she doesnбпt run now, when will she?

    Xiao Lingyue didnбпt give up on Small Shadiao. She now needs a fastpanion to help her escape and survive in the Wilderness. Small Shadiao is the most suitable candidate she has found.

    So Xiao Lingyue returned to the valley and ced the trapped Small Shadiao into the Spirit Beast Bag. Then, she attached several spiritual talismans to the bag and took off, running away into the sky.

    Xiao Lingyue didnбпt run towards the gathering ce of humans but continued deeper into the Wilderness. With her Soul Changing abilities, she didnбпt mind going further. She knew she could survive.

    However, Lin Ying was too scared to chase after them. Once they passed the territory of the Luan Bird King and ventured further into the Wilderness, they would encounter fifth-level demonic beasts. Lin Ying wasnбпt a match for them. All she could do was watch Xiao Lingyue escape.

    "The connection between me and Small Shadiao is weakening. I can barely reach them."

    Lin Jiang came running back and told Lin Ying. I donбпt know what that person did, but the connection between me and Small Shadiao is almost gone.

    "There are many secret techniques in the cultivation world. No one knows them all. There are also many ways to hide oneбпs presence and even techniques to take away someone elseбпs beast pet.""Wow, Iбпve never heard of that."

    "Iбпve only heard about them. Iбпve never seen them myself. Maybe my father knows more."

    Lin Ying shook her head, there are many strange secrets in the world of magic cultivation, itбпs normal not to know, no one can guarantee that all secrets will work.

    The two waited for a long time and finally Lin Batian and Lin Die arrived. Lin Batian was very angry when he saw his family being bullied, especially by a fourth-order beast pet. It was a very valuable treasure.

    "Where is Lao Shi?"

    "He went deep into the Wilderness, I didnбпt dare to chase after him."

    "Do you know where hees from?"

    "We havenбпt fought officially, so I donбпt know his specific identity, but I can be sure that he is a female cultivator."

    "There are not many female cultivators like Soul Changing in the whole world of cultivation."

    Lin Batian said. At lower levels, male and female cultivators are about the same, but as the cultivation level gets higher, there are fewer women. When ites to Soul Changing, there are even fewer. In the whole world of cultivation, they are very rare. Itбпs like Tao Achieving in Xu Mingyue, there is currently only one person.

    "I will go and investigate some clues."

    Lin Jiang entered the nearby valley, the ce where the person in the ck robe had stayed before.

    The valley was not particrly remarkable, but there was a cave. Lin Jiang walked into the cave and indeed smelled a floral scent, the fragrance of womenбпs powder.

    "This scent is so familiar, but I canбпt remember it right now."

    Lin Jiang rubbed his head, he was quite familiar with this smell, but couldnбпt recall where he had smelled it before.

    "Is it this scent?"

    Lin Ying walked in, holding a jade bottle and handed it to Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang smelled it and nodded suddenly.

    "Itбпs this scent."

    "This is the fragrance from the Central Province Magnolia Pavilion, called Spring Elegance. Itбпs very popr in the Central Province, many female cultivators use it. The price is not low, this bottle costs thirty thousand spirit stones."

    "I remember now."

    When Lin Jiang heard Lin Dieбпs words, he remembered that he had smelled this fragrance at Qinghuan Tower. The little fairy inside liked the things in this Jasmine Pavilion, it was indeed very popr in Zhongzhou.

    "What did you remember? Please tell me."

    "Uh, itбпs not rted to this."

    Lin Jiang felt embarrassed immediately. He couldnбпt say that he remembered smelling this fragrance somewhere.

    "Youбн"

    "Kid, see if there are any secret signals around here."

    "Master, I suspect itбпs one person."

    "Who?"

    "Itбпs Xiao Lingyue from the Spiritual Moon Sect."

    "Is it her? How did she end up here? Can you be sure?"

    "I canбпt be 100% certain, but I saw the leader of the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing team stationed at the Wilderness outpost before. Also, this Xiao Lingyue tried to buy Small Shadiao with money, but I refused her. She is highly suspicious."

    "There is indeed suspicion. Can you still sense the presence of the beast pet now?"

    "I couldnбпt sense it since an hour ago."

    "Then letбпs go, take me to find the people from the Spiritual Moon Sect."

    Lin Batian nodded. If they were from the Spiritual Moon Sect, they could cooperate. They should be able to track with secret methods based on the Soul Lamp.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Recently, the people from the Spiritual Moon Sect have been searching for Xiao Lingyue in the Wilderness, but there are still people stationed at the Wilderness outpost. Lin Batian approached them as an independent cultivator and quickly gained their attention through conversation.

    Half a dayter, the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing cultivator returned from the depths of the Wilderness, and Lin Batian went up to talk to them.

    "Taoist Friend Lin said it urately, we used a special technique to locate Xiao Lingyue in the Wilderness area. However, Xiao Lingyue is skilled at hiding her presence, so our technique cannot always find her."

    "I wonder what secret technique your esteemed sect uses to search for her. Could it be the soul tracking method?"

    "I feel ashamed, I wasnбпt able to master that technique."

    The cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect who specializes in Soul Changing said. The Spiritual Moon Sect is a major sect in the world of cultivation, with many secret techniques. However, not everyone can practice them. Itбпs not a matter of denying anyone; itбпs just that each personбпs talents are different. Some secret techniques are difficult, and she didnбпt learn the soul tracking technique that Lin Batian mentioned.

    "I have actually learned this technique. Would your sect be willing to let me give it a try?"

    "Umбн"

    "Please think carefully, Taoist Friend. The creature Xiao Lingyue captured is a fourth stage Aurora falcon. Once it is tamed, it will be difficult to catch another one in the future. Aurora falcons are extremely fast,parable to the speed of Soul Changing technique."

    "In that case, Iбпll trouble you, Taoist Friend."

    The Soul Changing cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect made up his mind. If what Lin Batian said was true, once Xiao Lingyue tamed the Aurora falcon, it would truly be difficult to catch her. Even if they found her, it would be easy for her to escape.

    The Spiritual Moon Sect was determined to capture Xiao Lingyue because her attempt to escape from a forced marriage caused significant losses for the sect. Not only did they lose valuable spirit stones, but their reputation was also tarnished. If they didnбпt punish her severely, it would be difficult for the sect to justify their actions to their ordinary disciples.

    Lin Batian took Xiao Lingyueбпs Soul Lamp and immediately started casting a spell. He took out a piece of paper and folded it into a paper bird, cing the wick from the Soul Lamp in its beak. Then, he cast several more spells, causing the paper bird to tremble before slowly taking flight.

    "Follow the paper bird, and youбпll find Xiao Lingyue."

    "You all stay here; weбпll go."

    "Lin Die, itбпs the same for all of you. Thereбпs no point ining along."

    Lin Batian also said to Lin Die and the others. Xiao Lingyue was at the Soul Changing Period, so bringing them, who were at the Nascent Soul Period, along wonбпt be useful.

    "Master, can I also go with them to Small Shadiaoбн?"

    "If you go, youбпll only be seeking death. Iбпll bring your beast pet back, so wait here."

    Lin Batian shook his head and then flew away from the base with the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing cultivator.

    The two of them went deep into the Wilderness together, releasing their power and scaring away the monsters of the Wilderness along the way.

    They kept going until they were deep inside, and the paper bird no longer approached them. Instead, it circled around a hill. Lin Batian knew they had found it, so he put away the paper bird and returned it to the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing.

    The two of them used their spiritual senses to search inch by inch. Soon, Xiao Lingyue appeared. She had already seen theming when they arrived, and she couldnбпt hide or escape anymore. After all, if she could be found this deep into the Wilderness, there was no way for her to run. She was trapped.

    "You really are a troublemaker."

    "Tsk tsk, why does the old master have time to wander around in the Wilderness?"

    "Clean up the mess, tell me, why did you betray the Spiritual Moon Sect, why did you run away from the wedding?"

    "Why did I run away from the wedding? Master, donбпt you already know? It was you who sold me off."

    "Nonsense, you benefited the most from your marriage alliance with the Shenmu Sect. If it wasnбпt for the sect arranging for Shenmu Sectбпs Duanmu Ling to marry you, how could you have obtained the Five Layered Divine Fruit and advanced to Soul Changing?"

    "Haha, donбпt treat me like a three-year-old. Although the Five Layered Divine Fruit is valuable, it canбпtpare to the profits you and Shenmu Sect make from your business dealings. Those profits are there every year, and Yunyue gets a share too."

    Xiao Lingyue sneered and said, the alliance between the Spiritual Moon Sect and the Shenmu Sect is not just about the dowry, but more importantly, the trade between the two sides, with the biggest share being her current master.

    The Duanyu family holds a very high position in the Shenmu Sect. If the alliance is formed, the trade will be year after year, bringing abundant benefits to Yunyue. Moreover, it will be long-term, notparable to a one-time Five Layered Divine Fruit.

    "The alliance between the two families is not disadvantageous for you."

    "Hehe, do you really want me to expose yourst secret?"

    "It seems that you have made up your mind to betray the sect."

    "If the sect is heartless, donбпt me me for being unjust."

    "Then donбпt me me for not considering the rtionship between master and disciple."

    The enraged Soul Changing cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect realized that it was already beyond repair, so he had no choice but to make a move.

    "Wait, listen to me first. I have no intention of interfering in the affairs of your Spiritual Moon Sect, but can Taoist Friend Xiao return my familyбпs beast pet?"

    Lin Batian quickly said that he didnбпt want the melon, he just wanted to get back his beast pet and go back to the Shenmu Sect to cultivate. Donбпt ignore him, it will really make him angry. Neither of you can handle it.

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 Chapter 256:

    Chapter 256:

    Bing State, Wilderness.

    Lin Batianбпs words made Xiao Lingyue take another look at him. She didnбпt know Lin Batian, even though she used to be the saint of the Spiritual Moon Sect. But she still didnбпt pay much attention to the affairs of the Qing State.

    "Are you here for that Aurora falcon?"

    "Of course! You stole my grandsonбпs beast pet. How can I note? Do you know how much a fourth-order Aurora falcon is worth?"

    Lin Batian stated matter-of-factly that it is very expensive to cultivate a fourth-order spirit pet. It takes at least a hundred years or more and requires constant investment. Itбпs even more expensive than cultivating a Nascent Soul disciple.

    "Taoist friend, I am willing to pay a high price to buy that Aurora falcon."

    Xiao Lingyue said that she was genuinely surprised now. A golden core cultivator not only brought several Nascent Soul disciples, but also had Soul Changing as a backer. The background really matters in this world.

    "You canбпt afford it."

    "Iбпm willing to exchange it for the Divine Phoenix Demon Bone.""Divine Phoenix Demon Bone, have you been to the Ancient Phoenix Secret Realm?"

    "Yes, I recently came out of the Ancient Phoenix Secret Realm. What do you think?"

    "Iбн"

    "Friend Lin, the Taoist"

    The anxious Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing cultivator watched as Lin Batian was being bought off. How could she not be anxious? She couldnбпt defeat two Soul Changing cultivators, even if Lin Batian didnбпty a hand on her, she might not be able to catch Xiao Lingyue either.

    "Cough cough, I apologize, I am not a greedy person. Besides, this beast pet is not mine, it belongs to my grandson. Our Lin family is known for being open-minded. As the ancestor, how could I covet the money of the younger generation?"

    Lin Batian said firmly. The Divine Phoenix Demon Bone is indeed a treasure, but it doesnбпt have any use for him right now. Heбпs not tempted.

    "That Taoist friend stepped aside to watch the battle, waiting for me and my master to resolve our grievances before discussing further."

    "Okay, you guys continue. Iбпm sorry, as an outsider, itбпs not convenient for me to interfere with your Spiritual Moon Sectбпs matters."

    Lin Batian smiled and then retreated to the side.

    The Soul Changing cultivator of the Spiritual Moon Sect was speechless. Lin Batian changed his attitude too quickly. Just a moment ago, he was saying that he would join forces to deal with Xiao Lingyue. And Xiao Lingyue was so foolish, not caring that there was an unfamiliar Soul Changing cultivator nearby. Wasnбпt she afraid of being used as bait?

    But Xiao Lingyue didnбпt care about that. She drew her sword and said. Master, Iбпvee to seek your guidance.

    After saying that, she attacked the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing cultivator with her sword. Both of them were from the same sect, inheriting the same teachings, and their techniques were simr. It was difficult to distinguish who had the upper hand.

    "The Spiritual Moon Sect is not good."

    Lin Batian watched their battle and noticed numerous ws. Moreover, their attacks were weak. He really couldnбпt help but be unimpressed.

    "Xiao Lingyue just broke through to Soul Changing a few years ago, so itбпs understandable that she canбпt fully utilize her Soul Changing techniques. But this Soul Changing cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect seems older in age, yet so weak."

    Lin Batian watched the two people fight and became more and more disgusted. Xiao Lingyueбпs master is not young anymore, but his attack power is really weak, and she doesnбпt know why.

    The Soul Changing cultivator of the Spiritual Moon Sect naturally had their own difficulties. The Spiritual Moon Sect is flourishing in the deep central region under Xu Mingyueбпs leadership, and the sect has a tradition of arranging marriages for its disciples. It can be said that friends and rtives are scattered throughout the central region. With so many rtives and friends, there are fewer fights and battles. After she advanced to Soul Changing, she rarely fought with others. She hadnбпt fought with anyone for hundreds of years and lost her fierceness from her youth.

    "Dharma body, go."

    The Soul Changing cultivator of the Spiritual Moon Sect gritted their teeth and disyed the Soul Changing Dharma Appearance. Although she hadnбпt been active for many years, her cultivation foundation was there, and she was determined to overpower others.

    Faced with her masterбпs Soul Changing Dharma Appearance, Xiao Lingyue frowned. The Soul Changing Dharma Appearance is the basic ability of Soul Changing, but she doesnбпt know it yet because she recently broke through to Soul Changing and didnбпt have time to condense her Soul Changing Dharma Appearance.

    "Frozen for a thousand miles."

    Xiao Lingyue also used her trump card, even though she didnбпt have the Soul Changing Dharma Appearance, she still had other opposing methods.

    Xiao Lingyue cast arge spell, and suddenly snowkes floated within a radius of a hundred miles. These delicate snowkes concealed lethality, and the ground began to freeze inch by inch, as if entering a world of ice and snow.

    "Something seems wrong. This is not the movement that can be caused by an Ice Spiritual Root."

    There was no ice around Lin Batian, and the cold air moved away from him automatically. Lin Batian reached out his hand and grabbed a handful of snowkes, smelling them with his nose.

    At this moment, a sudden change happened on the field. Xiao Lingyue created an ice dragon on the frozenndscape, fighting against the dharma body of a cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect. The ice dragon was shattered several times but quickly reformed. Both sides engaged in a battle of attrition, waiting to see who would give in first.

    "Taoist Friend Lin, I am willing to return Aurora falcon. Please help me fend off the enemy."

    "If I donбпt take action, you must return it as well."

    Lin Batian said calmly. This woman must be confused. Is she the one who can determine if she want to return it or not?

    "I am willing to give the Divine Phoenix Demon Bone as a gift."

    "Killing you, it will be mine too."

    "Youбн"

    "Stop talking and start fighting. Finish it quickly."

    Lin Batian was getting impatient, being indecisive and clueless.

    "Bold human, dare to act recklessly on our demon territory."

    The fight between the two was still undecided when a furious roar sounded. Lin Batian turned around and saw a ferocious beast, resembling a lion, appear.

    This ce was deep in the Wilderness, and the intense battle of the two Soul Changing beings frightened countless beasts. Xiao Lingyueбпs powerful spell also affected many other beasts. The demons hiding here could no longer tolerate it and called forth the fifth-order Demon King to intervene.

    "Beast with blue eyes and green hair"

    Both the Soul Changing cultivator from Spiritual Moon Sect and Xiao Lingyue were shocked. They recognized the identity of this ferocious beast, which could reign as a king among the demons. It was either a divine or exotic beast with formidable strength, surpassing others of the same level. This Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast was already in thete stage of the fifth order and was more than capable of killing them.

    "Hahaha, dear Taoist friend, donбпt worry. You continue, and Iбпll handle it."

    Lin Batianughed loudly, then took out the ying God Spear and charged directly at the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast.

    "Roar"

    The Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast saw Lin Batian approaching and immediately roared in anger, releasing a sound wave from its mouth that headed straight for Lin Batian.

    "Ribbit ribbit!"

    Lin Batian quickly stabbed with his spear, dispersing the sound wave.

    Frustrated that his attack was easily deflected, the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast suddenly grew several hundred times in size, transforming into an immensely gigantic creature, and pped a massive palm towards Lin Batian.

    "Dharma body, appear!"

    Lin Batian summoned his dharma body, which matched the size of the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast. The spear in his hand was extremely agile, piercing the beast mercilessly with every strike, causing it to cry out in pain.

    "Soul-devouring curse!"

    Desperate, the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast immediately unleashed its innate ability, the soul-devouring curse. A transparent beast head lunged towards Lin Batian, attempting to bite him.

    This curse was fueled by the power of the soul, rendering spiritual energy almost ineffective against it. It specialized in attacking the enemyбпs soul, causing countless demonic creatures in the Wilderness to suffer under its effects.

    The Soul Changing cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect and Xiao Lingyue ignored each otherбпs fighting, constantly retreating, fearing being affected.

    Lin Batian frowned, but he remained fearless. He put away his ying God Spear and made a hand gesture with his hands, causing a huge transparent shield to appear.

    "Boom!"

    The transparent beastбпs head rammed into the transparent shield, biting repeatedly, but couldnбпt harm it at all.

    After a dozen rounds, the transparent shield and the transparent beastбпs head disappeared at the same time, unable to harm each other.

    The Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast widened his eyes in disbelief. He couldnбпt understand why his special skills had no effect at all. This made him feel like giving up. He thought, "Let them fight, as long as they donбпt bother me. Those monsters are not my kind, so itбпs not my concern."

    "Human, just you wait. Iбпll go call my big brother."

    The Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast shouted loudly, then quickly vanished in the blink of an eye, leaving Lin Batian unable to react to the speed.

    "Wow, are the creatures in the Wilderness so sneaky?"

    Lin Batian was astonished, he kind of missed the once mighty Heavenly Wolf King. Heavenly Wolf King was so tough and determined, willing to fight to the death even when severely injured. Unlike this guy who ran away before giving his all.

    Lin Batian didnбпt bother to chase after him. Despite the fact that the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast was howling in pain just now, it was only superficial wounds, nothing serious. Besides, this ce was the territory of the demonic beings. If a sixth or seventh rank demonic being showed up, he wouldnбпt stand a chance.

    "You guys carry on."

    Lin Batian turned back and said to the two of them. Why did you stop fighting? Keep going!

    At this point, the two of them didnбпt have the intention to continue fighting. They both had the cultivation of Soul Changing, but their spiritual senses couldnбпt see through Lin Batianбп true strength. Previously, they thought Lin Batian was just at the early stage of Soul Changing, at the same level as them, and at most slightly stronger in power.

    But now that Lin Batian easily drove away the Blue-eyed Green-haired Beast, they realized their misjudgment. Even if they joined forces, they wouldnбпt be a match.

    "Respected Taoist Friend Lin, I admire your skills and talents. I am willing to return the Aurora falcon to you."

    "Great, hand it over, please."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, Lingyue has one more thing to ask."

    "Quickly release your gas."

    "Lingyue begged the Taoist friend to help me kill this person. Lingyue is willing to serve the Taoist friend with her body."

    "Ah."

    Lin Batian eximed and stared at Xiao Lingyue without stopping. Xiao Lingyue also took off the mask on her face, revealing her exquisite appearance.

    Xiao Lingyue is confident in her own appearance. For hundreds of years, countless people have fallen for her beauty, including Duanmu Ling, the Chief of the Shenmu Sect Nascent Soul, who fell in love with her not long ago.

    "Are you serious?"

    "Yes, Lingyue believes that choosing a husband is like choosing a master. It should be someone strong to follow. The Taoist friendбпs strength is unrivaled, Lingyue has never seen such power, and has already fallen in love. Please, Taoist friend, have pity on her."

    "I know Iбпm impressive, butбн"

    "But what?"

    "But I am not good with seduction."

    Lin Batian felt lost. If he brought this woman back, Lin Die and Lin Ying would be furious. He was already at an age where he wanted to settle down and start a family. Compared to a woman, he chose his daughter.

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 Chapter 257:

    Chapter 257:

    Bing State, Wilderness.

    The Soul Changing cultivator of the Spiritual Moon Sect listened to their conversation with surprise and anger. Unable to hold back, he scolded. Xiao Lingyue, are you taught by the sect to degrade yourself like this?

    Her anger was not unfounded. The Holy Maiden of the Spiritual Moon Sect was equivalent to the Chief of the Shenmu Sect. In other words, Xiao Lingyue was a senior disciple of the Spiritual Moon Sect in the Nascent Soul realm. She was supposed to be an example for the sect, but now she was being given away to Duanmu Ling. What happened to the proper marriage? Why did she willingly give herself to a stranger?

    "Master, it seems that you have really grown old and forgotten what the sect has taught us."

    Instead of being affected by her masterбпs scolding, Xiao Lingyue let out a coldugh.

    The world of cultivators was never easy. Independent cultivators had their own hardships, and disciples of major sects had their own struggles. Xiao Lingyue grew up in the Spiritual Moon Sect, wherepetition and internal conflicts started from the beginning.

    She has seen all kinds of conspiracies, been manipted by others, and manipted others herself. She knew a long time ago that the cultivation world only values strength and benefits, not personal rtionships.

    Although Duanmu Ling is talented, Xiao Lingyue doesnбпt like him because she thinks his cultivation progress has been too smooth. The Du Family has a strong presence in the Shenmu Sect, and Duanmu Ling has never faced any hardships. Xiao Lingyue has seen many people like him in the Spiritual Moon Sect иC theyck determination and cannot go far. They are just privileged young masters, unlike her who climbed up from the bottom as a cultivator.

    "Evildoerбн""Um, can you guys hold on for a moment? If you want to argue, do it at home. Give me the beast pet, I need to go home."

    Lin Batian couldnбпt bear it anymore. He didnбпt want to hear about your petty quarrels. He just wanted to take the beast pet and go home.

    "Excuse me, Taoist friendбн"

    "Shut up! If you donбпt hand over the beast pet now, I will kill you both."

    Lin Batian showed his killing intent directly. He was truly angry.

    Seeing this, Xiao Lingyue took off her Spirit Beast Bag from her waist and threw it to Lin Batian. But at the same time, she sent him a voice transmission, saying, "Taoist Friend Lin, help me break free. I have a Pure Yin Body."

    Lin Batian took the Spirit Beast Bag and upon hearing this, his eyes grew wide. He looked Xiao Lingyue up and down, while the cultivator from Spiritual Moon Sect, who practiced Soul Changing technique, although he didnбпt hear what Xiao Lingyue said, already guessed it.

    "Boom"

    Lin Batian suddenly thrust his spear towards the cultivator from Spiritual Moon Sect, but she was faster. She simply dodged and retreated, avoiding the spear.

    "Mr. Lin, how dare youбн"

    "Whatбпs there to be afraid of? You, keep bbering. Iбпm angry now. Iбпll kill you."

    Lin Batian prepared to fight again, wielding his spear to y this person, but the cultivator from Spiritual Moon Sect immediately activated a secret technique, causing her figure to disappear, leaving Lin Batian with nothing to attack.

    "Mr. Lin, just you wait!"

    "I will not change my name or family, I am from the Lin family of the Qing State. I am waiting for you in Qing State."

    Before leaving, the cultivator from the Spiritual Moon Sect left a harsh message. Lin Batian was not afraid at all and introduced himself, but he didnбпt know how the Lin family of Qing State would react.

    "Is the taoist friend from one of the four big families?"

    Upon hearing this, Xiao Lingyue became even more delighted. The four big families, with their ancient lineage and immense strength.

    "Of course, have you seen it? The ying God Spear, a secret technique passed down in the Lin family."

    "I know about the Lin familyбпs ying God Spear."

    Xiao Lingyue nodded. She had never seen the secret techniques of the four big families, but she had heard of their great reputation.

    "Haha, itбпs good that you know. I have more than just one spear."

    "Anything else?"

    "Of course, youбпll find out then. The Lin familyбпs descendants have always been skilled in using spears."

    "May I have a look?"

    "Haha, no rush, no rush. Taoist Friend Xiao, if you follow me in the future, you wonбпt have to worry about being chased by the Spiritual Moon Sect. Itбпs just a small sect, right? Iбпll take care of it. I will destroy Xu Mingyue and make you the leader of the Spiritual Moon Sect."

    "Taoist Friend Lin is joking. Xu Mingyue is a powerful Tao Achieving Realm."

    "Is the Tao Achieving Realm really that impressive? I have killed Tao Achieving Realm before, Taoist Friend Xiao doesnбпt know. Several decades ago, I already killed one."

    "Umбн"

    Xiao Lingyue is somewhat skeptical. She is also a dedicated cultivator and most of her energy is devoted to cultivation, so she doesnбпt pay much attention to the outside world. She doesnбпt even know that Lin Batian killed Tao Achieving with the Divine Fruit.

    "Taoist Friend Xiao, nice to meet you. I donбпt have any formal gifts to give, but how about we hunt a 5th-level monster together as a greeting?"

    "Hmm, that might not be a good idea."

    Xiao Lingyue is shocked. Is it really that easy to hunt down a 5th-level monster? Itбпs an extremely valuable treasure.

    "Watch my skills!"

    Lin Batian was very confident. Because the girl admired strong people, he wanted to show his strength and believed he could seed.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "The people from Spiritual Moon Sect ran away."

    Inside the Wilderness stronghold, Lin Die walked in and spoke to Lin Jiang.

    "Why did the people from Spiritual Moon Sect run away?"

    "I donбпt know. They seemed very afraid of me. When they saw me, they had a terrified expression, and everyone left like they were escaping."

    "Could something have happened in the Wilderness? Maybe something with the head of the familyбн"

    "Donбпt worry, you know how powerful my dad is. Even if Void Achieving came, they might not be able to kill him, let alone Soul Changing. Iбпve already sent him a Sound Passing Talisman, he just hasnбпt replied yet."

    "Thatбпs true, but for safetyбпs sake, I think we should hide first and then decide."

    Lin Jiang said he didnбпt know what happened, but the people from the Spiritual Moon Sect ran away, and he felt unsafe.

    "Thereбпs no need for that."

    "The Spiritual Moon Sect is a big sect too. If they send someone like a Soul Changing or even a Void Achieving or Tao Achieving, we could be in trouble."

    "When did you be so timid? The Spiritual Moon Sect only has two or three Void Achieving experts, and theyбпre busy guarding important areas. They wouldnбпt easily mobilize. Besides, even if theye, what does it have to do with us?"

    "Iбпm just being cautious."

    Lin Jiang said that as one grows older in the martial arts world, they be more cautious. He wasnбпt young anymore, so it was only natural to be careful.

    "Youбпre mistaken."

    Lin Die ignored Lin Jiang. With her sister by her side, what was there to be afraid of?

    "Third Sister, Lin Wu, Lin Cong are back."

    "Tiny Shadiao"

    Lin Jiang immediately sensed the presence of Tiny Shadiao and quickly went outside. He saw Tiny Shadiao beside Lin Ying, who was currently being scolded by Big Shadiao by twisting its ear.

    "Sis, sis, be gentle, my ear will be gone!"

    "Dad, help me!"

    Tiny Shadiao cried and howled like a ghost. Lin Jiang couldnбпt bear to see it, so he went over and rescued Tiny Shadiao.

    "Tiny Shadiao, why are you back? Where is the family leader?"

    "The family leader and the wicked woman went to hunt down a fifth-level monster."

    "Who is the wicked woman?"

    "The wicked woman who caught me! Itбпs Xiao Lingyue. She is very wicked and even desires my body!"

    "Whatбпs going on? What happened?"

    Lin Jiang waspletely confused. Wasnбпt Lin Batian supposed to capture Xiao Lingyue with the Spiritual Moon Sectбпs Soul Changing cultivator? How did it turn into Lin Batian and Xiao Lingyue hunting down a fifth-level monster?

    "I donбпt know either. I was captured inside the Spirit Beast Bag. Oh, by the way, Third Auntie, this is a letter from the head of the family for you."

    Small Shadiao took out a Sound Passing Talisman and handed it to Lin Die. Lin Die scanned it with his spiritual awareness, and his face instantly lit up with excitement.

    "What did Dad say, Third Sister?"

    "Letбпs leave first, and we can discuss it outside of the Wilderness."

    "Why, Third Sister?"

    "Donбпt ask questions. Letбпs leave first and then talk."

    Lin Die shook his head, and everyone quickly left the Wilderness base and flew back to Shenmu City. Shenmu Sect and Spiritual Moon Sect had already cut ties and be enemies. It was safe here.

    "Third Sister, can you tell us what happened now?"

    "Dad, it seems like Xiao Lingyue was taken in."

    "Killed?"

    "No, taken in, literally."

    "What?! That old man, how could he do this?"

    Lin Ying became instantly angry. They were all three or four hundred years old, and now someone was trying to find them a mother?

    "Men, they only behave when theyбпre buried in the ground."

    Lin Die was also seething with anger, then nced at Lin Jiang.

    "Iбпm talking about you, Small Shadiao. If you donбпt behave, youбпll be gone in a snap."

    Lin Jiang quickly shouted at Small Shadiao in anger. Small Shadiao looked confused. What does it have to do with him that the head of the family is finding a woman?

    "Third Sister, I donбпt agree with this. You go tell Dad that if he dares to bring a woman home, I will run away from home and nevere back."

    "Donбпt be silly."

    "Iбпm not being silly. It was okay before, with so few descendants of the Lin family, and now we donбпt need any more siblings he fathered. If he keeps having more brothers and sisters for us, our home will be in chaos."

    "Ah, I have a headache too."

    "Anyway, this is my stance. If sheбпs here, I wonбпt be, and if Iбпm here, she wonбпt be. Let the old man choose."

    Lin Ying was very firm in her attitude. Lin Batian didnбпt care much about his wife and children. Even the few wives and concubines he had were taken care of by her older brother until theirst days.

    Even they, the girls, only started receiving attention slowly after the Lin familyбпs second generation began to decline. And now, theye again. Lin Ying is the first one who refuses to ept it.

    Lin Jiang stood awkwardly on the side, not daring to speak. He didnбпt know how it happened, but everything haspletely changed.

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 Chapter 258:

    Chapter 258:

    Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Zhongzhou, Shenmu City

    The group didnбпt stay in Shenmu City for long. If it wasnбпt for Small Shadiao being in danger, they all had their own things to take care of. So, after seeing Lin Cunjian and the others, they left.

    Lin Jiang took out the things from the storage bag. It was all prey captured by Small Shadiao, most of which had already been cut and ready to be used. They would use what they could and sell what they couldnбпt refine properly.

    Lin Jiang estimated that this journey into the Wilderness would bring in at least three to four million spirit stones, which was decades worth of profits for Fengyun Trading Company.

    "Well, raising Small Shadiao wasnбпt in vain. Letбпs find an opportunity for it to continue hunting."

    Lin Jiang was very satisfied in his heart. With this ie, he finally relieved some of his difficulties. Otherwise, without any money, Lin Jiang didnбпt feel safe.

    Having earned money, Lin Jiang treated Small Shadiao kindly. He immediately rewarded it with a bottle of Beast Spirit Pill. Beast Spirit Pill was expensive, but beasts loved it.

    Having earned money, Small Shadiao deserved a reward. Lin Jiang couldnбпt treat it poorly either. After selling most of the beast materials, Lin Jiang went to Qinghuan Tower to pass the time and listen to music.After a pleasant chat, Lin Jiang went into the hall and joined a group of tricky merchants. They chatted and shared information. Despite each merchant being individually weak, when they united, their power was considerable. This time, Lin Jiang could only sell most of his monster materials with their help. If he had to do it on his own, who knows how much time it would take.

    "Brother Xiao, you and your father are really simr. Even Qinghuan Tower came together. Are father and son going topete?"

    As soon as Lin Jiang sat down, a familiar shopkeeper came over and teased him.

    "Father and son? What father and son?"

    Lin Jiang was confused. Did he mean Small Shadiao, the father and son?

    "Stop pretending. I know you recently made a fortune. Whatбпs the big deal for a father and son to fight together in battle?"

    "Haha, the taoist friend is right. Iбпll bring your son next time too."

    "Come on, donбпt harm me. Iбпm a married man, you know."

    "You stille here despite being married? Iбпm a single guy, you know."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes, all these guys are jerks, they donбпt look like him, heбпs apletely honest person.

    About an hourter, Small Shadiao walked out with his pants on. He wasnбпt in the habit of chatting, he would just finish his business and leave. So when Small Shadiao heard someone calling him at the door, he suddenly turned around and saw Lin Jiang looking at him with a half-smile.

    Small Shadiao immediately panicked, this was so embarrassing. He quickly tried to slip away.

    "Why the rush, Xiao Cong?"

    Lin Jiang caught up with Small Shadiao in a few steps. Since they imed to be father and son, Small Shadiao also changed his name to Xiao Cong.

    "My taoist friend, youбпve mistaken me for someone else. Iбпm not Xiao Cong."

    "Mistaken identity?"

    "Yes, mistaken identity."

    Small Shadiao firmly stated that it was definitely a mistake, he would never admit it.

    "Amazing"

    Lin Jiang sighed. This shameless skill surpassed his own. It reminded him of the time when he secretly went to the inte cafe to surf the inte and got caught by his father. He used the same trick back then, but the consequences were quite tragic. He couldnбпt forget the beating he received for hundreds of years.

    So Lin Jiang decided to give Small Shadiao an unforgettable memory. He quickly activated the secret technique of the Master-servant Contract. Small Shadiaoбпs face instantly turned pale and he begged. Dad, I was wrong, I was wrong.

    "No one is wrong?"

    "No, itбпs just me, your big son."

    "Now that youбпve admitted it, letбпs go home."

    Lin Jiang said lightly. There were peopleing and going here, so he still had to give Small Shadiao some face. He would have to scold his son at home.

    Back at their residence, Small Shadiaoбпs facepletely changed. He kept his head down and remained silent, waiting for the storm toe.

    "Small Shadiao, to be honest, I have no objections if you go to Qinghuan Tower. After you transform, you are not much different from the human race. Letбпs forget about this."

    "Ah, really? Thank you, Dad!"

    "Hmm, letбпs forget about that. But thereбпs another matter to resolve. You embezzled my money before, owing me hundreds of thousands of spirit stones. Pay back the debt."

    "Dad, I donбпt have any money."

    "If you donбпt have money, how could you go to Qinghuan Tower? Do you think youбпre me, able to go without spending money? Be honest, hand over the money, or Iбпll have to take action."

    Lin Jiang shouted, knowing that Small Shadiao must have been hiding money. Sorry, but the cunning merchant character appeared, not leaving a single penny for him. Letбпs see how heбпll go to Qinghuan Tower in the future.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    The Lin familyбпs residence. An awkward situation unfolds here. Xiao Lingyue stands beside Lin Batian, appearing before Lin Die and the others. Lin Die and Lin Ying exchange angry res, while the rest of the Lin familyбпs children look at each other in confusion.

    Xiao Lingyue, however, appears very generous at this moment. She takes out gifts from her storage bag and hands them out to everyone. Lin Batian presents a fifth-rank monster as a greeting gift, and itбпs not something she earned herself.

    "Pah, who wants it?"

    Lin Ying tosses the gift aside and walks away directly.

    "Donбпt mind her. Lin Ying has always been like this. Once she gets to know you, she will ept you."

    Lin Batian awkwardly said. Lin Yingбпs not giving face, but at least she didnбпt confront him on the spot. Her third sibling is better than her.

    "I know. Being a stepmother isnбпt so easy."

    Xiao Lingyue didnбпt care about these things, what she cared about was the man in front of her.

    In the short time of less than three months together, Xiao Lingyue has already been captivated by Lin Batian. In her eyes, Lin Batian is a very dominant man, full of masculinity. Such a man is worth relying on.

    As for the rtionship between the Lin family and the four major families, she already knows about it, but she is not very worried because Lin Batian has told her that in a few years, he can wipe out the four major families and be the only ancient hidden family, inheriting the heritage of the four major families.

    Xiao Lingyue believes this statement. Now, no matter what Lin Batian says, she believes him. After all, they are currently in the honeymoon phase, also known as the period of intense romance.

    "Donбпt worry, with me here, I wonбпt let you suffer. Go and rest for a while."

    "Okay, Lin Lang."

    "Go ahead, Ling Yue."

    "Yes."

    Xiao Lingyue reluctantly left, and Lin Die could hear her getting goosebumps in waves.

    Lin Batian waved his hand and everyone dispersed, leaving only Lin Die. Lin Die said. Father, can you give me an exnation now?

    "What exnation do you want?"

    "You promised Lin Ying and me before that you wouldnбпt bring any women home, even if you were seeing someone."

    "Times have changed, you know. Do you want to know why I suddenly had a falling out with the Spiritual Moon Sect?"

    "Iбпm waiting for your exnation."

    "Xiao Lingyue has a special body called Pure Yin Body, and she is also a virgin. The Du family arranged for Duanmu Ling to marry Xiao Lingyue as a backup n. If Duanmu Ling cannot break through with the divine fruit, he can rely on Xiao Lingyueбпs special body to breakthrough."

    "Umбн"

    Lin Die didnбпt know about this hidden truth, no wonder the alliance between the two sects seemed disadvantageous for the Shenmu Sect. If thatбпs the case, itбпs not a loss, but rather a big gain.

    "So you should understand Fatherбпs difficulties. I didnбпt fall in love with this woman, but with her special body."

    "You seeded."

    "Mmm."

    Lin Batian nodded. He already obtained Xiao Lingyueбпs primordial yin energy. With Lin Batianбпs abilities, there are few women he cannot conquer. Canбпt you see that Xiao Lingyue canбпt live without him now?

    "Howбпs your cultivation?"

    "Iбпm just half a step away from reaching the peak of Soul Changing. I am kind-hearted, so I didnбпt drain her energy, but instead practiced dual cultivation. If I had drained her energy, I would definitely be at the peak of Soul Changing now."

    "Be kind"

    Lin Die said that she saw Xiao Lingyue giving herselfpletely to Lin Batian, and it would be very wrong if she still used malicious methods.

    "Haha, I am not that kind of bad person"

    "How will Dad arrange Xiao Lingyue? It wonбпt be easy with Lao Shi"

    "Lao Shi doesnбпt care about her. As for Xiao Lingyue, you should respect her and support her. But donбпt involve her in the Lin familyбпs matters. Itбпs not that we donбпt trust her, but Xiao Lingyue doesnбпt have much talent."

    Lin Batian said that based on his understanding of Xiao Lingyue, she is clever and smart, butcks vision. Even with her Soul Changing abilities, she wonбпt be able to control the Lin family. Currently, itбпs only him, Lin Die, and Lin Ying who have power.

    "Now you know what to do"

    "Itбпs good that you know. You and Xiao Lingyue should get familiar with each other quickly. I need to hurry back to Shenmu Sect. I have to get hold of the divine fruit, break through the Void Achieving stage, and learn the four secret techniques. I am too busy."

    "You should also try to persuade Lin Ying"

    "I canбпt persuade you, so forget it. You go and try to persuade him. Old Ten has always been closer to you since childhood, right?"

    "Iбн"

    Lin Die didnбпt know what to say for a moment. Among the second generation of the Lin family, all of Lin Batianбп emotions are focused on Eldest Brother Lin Shan. The further down the list, the less close he gets. This is one of the reasons why Lin Ying reacts so strongly.

    Lin Batian didnбпt notice the change in Lin Dieбпs expression and just kept talking. He reminded Lin Die not to forget to support the remaining forces of the four major sects, and to continue to weaken the power of the four major families in Qing State, and so on.

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 Chapter 259:

    Chapter 259:

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    Shenmu City, a city in the central region.

    "Itбпs not easy, itбпs really not easy. Iбпve been four hundred years old, and I finally reached the mid-stage of the golden core."

    Lin Jiang woke up from his seclusion and felt extremely amazed. This time, it was several consecutive years of seclusion, and he finally elevated his cultivation to the mid-stage of the golden core.

    This progress is really slow, and Lin Jiang also analyzed the reason for his slow cultivation. Spiritual Root cannot be changed, but with the Five Spirit Manual, he can reach the level of an ordinary person. As for his aptitude, after being baptized with the stic Bone Pill, it has also reached a moderate level. The reason why his cultivation speed is still not improving, Lin Jiang thinks it might be because of hisck ofprehension.

    Comprehension is also very important in cultivation. If oneбпs aptitude and understanding of techniques cannot keep up, then the speed of progress will be slow.

    "Saying that I have a low aptitude means Iбпm stupid. I wonбпt admit it, hehe."

    Lin Jiang frowned and quickly dismissed this inference, whether it was self-deception or not. He didnбпt care if his cultivation speed was slower, as he had plenty of lifespan.

    Aftering out of seclusion and pushing open the door, Small Shadiao saw that the sky while standing with folded hands. These past few years had been really tough for him, suffering from severe exploitation. He was always moping around, and even if he didnбпt, what could he do with such a meager sry and never-ending debts?"Son, what are you looking at?"

    "Iбпm looking at the stars."

    "Stars? Could you be Sun Liancheng?"

    "Who is Sun Liancheng?"

    "Oh, nothing. Why are you looking at stars in broad daylight?"

    "What can I do? You tell me, canбпt you just be a good person?"

    "Haha, donбпt be angry. Today I am very happy. I will reduce half of your debt. How about that?"

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, and Small Shadiao rolled their eyes in response. He had already repaid his debts ten times over, but it was all because some dishonest merchant had intentionally deceived him.

    "Alright, stop looking so down. Iбпll give you a bottle of Beast Spirit Pill, how about that?"

    "Two bottles, donбпt think I donбпt know. Your Beast Spirit Pills are all made by Lin Dongyan, and the price is two-thirds cheaper than buying them outside."

    "Haha, sure, two bottles it is. After all, I am your dad."

    Lin Jiangughed and said. Beast Spirit Pills are just too expensive. He had to find a way to obtain the recipe and give it to Lin Dongyan for him to make. Lin Dongyan did make them sessfully, but he was too busy to make a lot.

    After ying around with Small Shadiao for a while, Lin Jiang went to Fengyun Trading Company. The business of Fengyun Trading Company had be increasingly prosperous over the years, and their profits were rising. This was all thanks to the improvement in Lin Cunjianбпs cultivation.

    Lin Cunjian and his friends were the elite of the Lin family. Their cultivation aptitude was excellent, and their progress in cultivation had been rapid in recent years. They already had five people in the Golden Core Period, and Lin Cunjianбпs cultivation was even higher, as he had reached thete stage of the Golden Core Period.

    "Tenth Auntie, youбпre still here."

    Lin Jiang saw Lin Ying at the store. Lin Ying was here before he went into seclusion, and he didnбпt expect her to still be here after he came out.

    "Why, are you driving me away?"

    "How can I dare? Iбпm just showing some concern for Tenth Auntie."

    "If you truly care about me, use your scheming tricks to drive away the person with the surname Xiao."

    Lin Ying nced at Lin Jiang. She knew that Lin Jiang had a lot of scheming tricks. If he was willing to take action, he would definitely be able to drive away Xiao Lingyue.

    "Tenth Auntie, she is the wife of the head of the family. I wouldnбпt dare to do anything inappropriate, the head would kill me with a single sword strike."

    "Donбпt be afraid, with me here, my father wouldnбпt kill you."

    "Then should Tenth Auntie kill Xiao Lingyue herself?"

    "Youбн"

    Lin Ying was extremely angry. Xiao Lingyue had a higher level of Soul Changing cultivation than her, so she couldnбпt defeat her. If she could, she would have already attacked. Do we really need you to tell us?

    "Tenth Auntie, donбпt worry. Xiao Lingyue is an outsider in the Lin family. She canбпt create any trouble."

    "Hmph, go away. I donбпt want to see you anymore."

    "Yes, letбпs go."

    Lin Jiang hurriedly ran off to find Lin Cunjian and the others. After checking their ounts, he couldnбпt trust them anymore. These guys had previously incited Small Shadiao to cheat him out of his money, causing him to lose trust in them.

    "Not bad. The pure profit of the past two years has exceeded three hundred thousand spirit stones."

    Lin Jiang looked at the ounts and expressed satisfaction. The profits from legitimate businesses were usually low, but the advantage was in their longevity. umting around three hundred thousand in profits annually for ten or a hundred years would be quite substantial.

    "Uncle, this amount of money is really not enough for anything."

    "Whatбпs on your mind?"

    "There are many problems at home right now. The Third Ancestor and Tenth Ancestor are both looking for opportunities to break through Soul Changing. And the ten plus of us, who are at theter stage of golden core and peak, are also in urgent need of infant treasure. Sigh."

    "Donбпt count on buying these things. What you canбпt buy, think about having the n leader n for you."

    Lin Jiang said that he had known about this matter for a long time. The infant treasure that Lin Die and Lin Ying used was given by Lin Batian, probably brought from the Lin family. But it has already been used up.

    Now both Lin Die and Lin Ying need to break through Soul Changing and need treasure. These treasures cannot be bought on the market. Not to mention Soul Changing Treasure, even Nascent Soul treasure is the same.

    "Although thatбпs true, the Lin family has actually had a hard time these years. Our sries havenбпt been paid for two years."

    Lin Cunjian said that they were in Shenmu City and not only relied on the ie given by Lin Jiang. The Lin family had its own subsidy, but it hasnбпt been paid for two years now.

    He knew why it wasnбпt paid. It was rted to Lin Batianбп strategy. Lin Batian was still supporting the remnants of the original Qing Stateбпs four major sects, making them sh with the four major families, consuming arge amount of resources. At the same time, due to multiple relocations, the Lin familyбпs financial sources were very unstable, their ie sharply decreased, and they were bing increasingly poor.

    "So, what do you think?"

    "Letбпs go to Wilderness, itбпs always an adventure."

    "Wilderness is very dangerous."

    "Everywhere is dangerous, but letбпs take a chance. Iбпm not young anymore, and itбпs better to settle down early."

    Lin Cunjian said. Before this, I was being supported and protected by my family. But now, I have to make it on my own.

    "Alright, alright, if you want to go, I wonбпt stop you. When you take action, consider the ten yearsбп sry from the family ount as a little token of your uncleбпs affection."

    "Thank you, Uncle."

    "Do other people also have this idea?"

    "Quite a few. Life in Shenmu City is toofortable, and itбпs not suitable for us cultivators. If we stayfortable for too long, we might lose our fighting spirit."

    "Are you saying that getting married and having children will make us lose our fighting spirit?"

    "It is our duty as members of the Lin family to expand and prosper. Now, I have fulfilled this duty and it is time for me to n for myself."

    "Alright."

    "Uncle also needs to contribute."

    "As a humble person, I dare not enter the bustling city, and with a simple and pure heart, I dare not miss out on a good opportunity."

    Lin Jiang shook his head and remained silent. Without the help of his system, which was like having a supportive family, he could only keep this secret to himself.

    Lin Cunjian and the others were very efficient. In less than two months, they bid farewell to Lin Jiang and set off to explore different ces in search of opportunities. As a gesture of support, Lin Jiang gave them ten yearsбп worth of sry.

    Lin Ying was also very supportive of this decision. The resources brought by Lin Batian from the Lin family had been exhausted, and the Lin family couldnбпt provide them with higher-level treasures. They had to rely on themselves from now on.

    Lin Die was also determined and knew that she was no match for Xiao Lingyue in pce struggles. She decided to go to the Wilderness in search of opportunities. She was determined to break through Soul Changing and drive away Xiao Lingyue. Soon after, Lin Ying also left.

    "They have all left, letбпs go."

    Lin Jiang sighed and said. With half of the Lin familyбпs descendants gone, Shenmu City will return to its calm and ordinary life.

    "Practice diligently, and a bright future awaits."

    Lin Jiang became more diligent, spending more time practicing. He knew that there were many battles waiting for him in the future, and he didnбпt want to be just a bystander. He wanted to contribute to those around him.

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 Chapter 260:

    Chapter 260:

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    Central Province, where the Lin family is based

    Lin Jiang didnбпt visit the Lin family very often. It was usually every three to five years, when he could reunite with his elder sister and younger brother, Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. At the same time, he would also see Zhang Shuhua. Zhang Shuhua had been an envoy of the Five Elements Sect in the Lin family for many years.

    "Junior brother, Iбпve received news that most of the four major families have withdrawn their forces from Yun State. You can go back and take a look now."

    "The four major families are no longer interested in Yun State?"

    Lin Jiang was surprised. He had always thought that the four major families intended to take over Yun State. He didnбпt expect them to withdraw.

    Yun State is very remote. The four major families only need Qing State for their purposes. However, they left because Qing State also has many problems.

    Although the four major families repeatedly told their disciples to treat the vassals well, their disciples still acted very arrogantly and oppressed the vassals. Many vassals resented this and secretly helped the former members of the four major sects. In addition, the Lin family kept harassing them from behind. The power of the four major families in Qing State is not enough anymore, so they canбпt monitor Yun State too much. Most importantly, after almost a century of hunting by the four major families, there are not many descendants of the Lin family left.

    Zhang Shuhua exined that there were several reasons for the four major families withdrawing from Yun State. The descendants of the Lin Batian lineage were either killed or fled. The four major families also needed to protect their base in Qing State, so it was natural for them to withdraw."So, I can go back now?"

    "Almost. Itбпs generally safe to go back now, just donбпt attract too much attention."

    "Then I should go back too. Itбпs been almost a hundred years."

    Lin Jiang sighed. He had reached the golden core stage after the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration and not long after that was the big battle in Yun State. He had never returned to Yun State since then. Now, he was already over four hundred years old, and calcting the time, it had been almost a hundred years.

    "It has been many years. I should go back and see. Perhaps some of my old friends are still alive. In a few more years, they might be gone."

    "I will go back in a few days."

    Lin Jiang nodded and decided to go back while he had nothing else to do.

    He wanted to see his old friends and the ce he had lived for a hundred years. He also wanted to see Pce Banquet, a ce where many battles had taken ce.

    Three dayster, Lin Jiang set off to return to Yun State with Small Shadiao by his side. Crossing the Wilderness between the two ces was no longer dangerous. Lin Jiang arrived safely in the realm of Yun State.

    "Yun State has changed a lot over the decades. There are more and more strongholds in the Wilderness."

    Lin Jiang paused in the air above the Wilderness and saw more and more strongholds below his feet. It was much more prosperous than when he was in the Wilderness a hundred years ago. The Wilderness reflected the strength of the three major sects of Yun State. Besides them, it was difficult for other forces to have the strength to develop the Wilderness. As for independent cultivators, forget about it. They were basically cannon fodder just there to make trouble.

    "Excuse me, who are you looking for, taoist friend?"

    When Lin Jiang arrived at the gate of the Five Elements Sect, he was stopped by a young disciple on patrol. Lin Jiang greeted the disciple warmly and showed his identity token.

    The disciple still didnбпt recognize Lin Jiang, but he no longer made things difficult for him. Lin Jiang smoothly entered through the gate.

    Lin Jiangбпs cave dwelling was still there, even the same one he had when he reached the Building Foundation stage. He had left shortly after breaking through to the golden core stage, so there was no time to change the dwelling. Lin Jiang just nced at it before going to see Zhang Wanjing.

    Zhang Wanjing is not here, Lin Jiang didnбпt see anyone, so he went to Zhang Shuhuaбпs cave. Zhang Shuhuaбпs wife also looked old, with silver hair. Lin Jiang remembered how she looked when she married Zhang Shuhua, but now her youth is gone.

    "Itбпs my junior brother who has returned."

    "He came back to visit. This is a letter and a gift that my senior brother asked me to bring. Where are Zhang Wenchen and Zhang Wenxin?"

    "They are both here. I will go get them."

    Zhang Shuhuaбпs wife was very happy and quickly called Zhang Wenchen and Zhang Wenxin back.

    Zhang Wenchen already looks like a sophisticated middle-aged man. He has a young wife and a child with him. Lin Jiang had heard about them when he was in Central City, but this was his first time seeing them.

    Zhang Wenchen knows Lin Jiang. When Lin Jiang left, Zhang Wenchen was already an adult, while Zhang Wenxin was still very young. She tried to open her eyes wide, looking at Lin Jiang, trying to find some memories, but couldnбпt seem to find any. She looked confused.

    "Sister-inw, do they look like how you and senior brother looked back then?"

    "Yes, junior brother. Back then, every time you came, you would y with Wencheng and make him call you боfatherбп. Now, Wenchengбпs son is already this big, so we canбпt y that anymore."

    "Haha, sister-inw, letбпs not talk about past matters. Canбпt you see Wenchenбпs face has turned ck?"

    "Who cares? Iбпm old now, and I no longer listen to my daughterбпs words. It serves me right."

    "Letбпs not talk about that. Itбпs been many years since I had a taste of your cooking, sister-inw. Can we have a meal tonight?"

    "Of course we can, but arenбпt you waiting for my father?"

    "Our master is always busy with important matters, so we donбпt need to worry about him."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, why bother with so many things? He came back this time to visit friends, not to report back to the sect. Letбпs eat and drink first.

    That night, Lin Jiang had dinner with the Zhang family. He talked to Zhang Wenxin and Zhang Wenchenбпs son about many interesting things in other states. Not only Yun State cultivators, but cultivators from other regions are the same. Most cultivators spend their whole lives within their own region, and 90% of cultivators never leave their own state.

    Only a small number of cultivators can travel between several states. Lin Jiang, with his golden core cultivation, is already a rare case. This is mainly because he has the beast pet Small Shadiao with him. Otherwise, he would face countless dangers. Ordinary cultivators donбпt have such privileges.

    The next day, after meeting many old friends inside the sect gate, Lin Jiang learned that Zheng Yi, who used to be a disciple farming outside, had passed away, but his grandchildren are now inside the sect. Some of them have even achieved the Building Foundation Period, thanks to the efforts of several generations. This allows them to ascend to a higher level.

    Yue Qing and Yue Lin, who were once here, have also passed away. They were not able to advance to the golden core, but Yue Qingбпs younger brother Jiang Shu unexpectedly broke through the golden core, which surprised Lin Jiang.

    "Senior Brother Xiao, itбпs been decades. Where have you been?"

    Jiang Shu was shocked to see Lin Jiang. Since the war in Yun State, Lin Jiang had disappeared and no one knew where he had gone. Jiang Shu had asked Zhang Shuhua and others, but they didnбпt tell him.

    "I went on some secret missions for the sect. Your fortune is better than Yue Qing and the others because you broke through the golden core."

    "Itбпs also thanks to Senior Brotherбпs guidance. Without Senior Brotherбпs help, I would never have been able to break through."

    Jiang Shu said that he did have a share in Lin Jiangбпs business, although it was small. Over the past hundred years, he had umted enough to buy a pill, and it was with some luck that he made the breakthrough.

    "Itбпs all because of your own good fortune. It has nothing to do with me, so donбпt think too much about it."

    "Still, I have to thank Senior Brother."

    "How have those businesses been in recent years?"

    "Everything is still goodбн"

    Jiang Shu talked about his business, and instantly felt much better. Lin Jiangбпs business was still going on, including the business that Zhang Wanjing had obtained after the sectбпs reform.

    The business continues, but the boss has changed many times. If the bosses behind these businesses are still alive, then the businesses continue to belong to them. But if they have passed away without sessors, then the businesses will be gone. Finding a sessor doesnбпt simply mean having a heir, it means having the ability to manage the money.

    For example, the former Nascent Soul expert, Guo Yunfeng, had countless industries within the sect. After he passed away, his descendants couldnбпt break through to Nascent Soul stage, so his industries were gradually taken away. However, he still had connections remaining, so not everything was taken away. What needed to be left behind was still left behind.

    In contrast, Yue Qing and Yue Lin were different. They were able to pursue lucrative business, relying on Lin Jiang. When Lin Jiang left their state or when they passed away, their shares would all be gone.

    "Then, who has taken over my shares now?"

    "For the time being, Zhang Shuhua Senior Brother holds them under his name, but I know that Zhang Shuhua Senior Brother didnбпt take them. It should be Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle who took them, using them to subsidize others. Now, Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle has a lot of power and a number of golden core disciples by his side. In the past few decades, dozens of disciples in the Five Elements Sect have advanced to the golden core stage, and half of them were nurtured by Zhang Wanjing Martial Uncle."

    "Impressive."

    Lin Jiang nodded in agreement. He didnбпt find this surprising, as Zhang Wanjing was not a narrow-minded person. He had listened to Lin Jiangбпs advice years ago.

    If you want to hold real power in the sect, you must have a strong support base. Itбпs not just about deceiving others with words; you have to use concrete benefits to win them over. Without any advantages, who would selflessly work for you?

    Lin Jiang and Jiang Shu had a drink, then they saw Yu Wanke again. He still had a strong core, but his life force was fading rapidly. In the past, the three of them with strong cores fought together. Zou Yu died on the battlefield, and Wei Yunshen passed away within a few years due to severe injuries. Now, only Yu Wanke was left alive.

    Yu Wanke has now retired and no longer holds any positions at the sect. He focuses on enjoying his old age and raising his children and grandchildren. When he sees Lin Jiang, he feels very nostalgic.

    "Your master, well, I suddenly didnбпt know what to say."

    When talking about Zhang Wanjing, Yu Wanke didnбпt know where to start. All he could say was that over time, people change and itбпs not fair to judge them as simply right or wrong anymore.

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 Chapter 261:

    Chapter 261:

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    The Land of Yun, The Sect of the Five Elements

    On the fifth day back at the Five Elements Sect, it took Lin Jiang some time to see Zhang Wanjing. He didnбпt know if Zhang Wanjing was really that busy.

    "I read the report you sent back. Lately, youбпve been cking off. Itбпs all news about the Shenmu Sect in the Central ins, hardly any news from other ces."

    Zhang Wanjing said to Lin Jiang, after Lin Jiang left the position of envoy for the Five Elements Sect, his new mission was to gather information about the entire cultivation world for the sect, so the sect could have an understanding of the cultivation world. But Lin Jiang had been living in Shenmu City for many years, so naturally he didnбпt have many sources of information.

    "Yes, Master, disciples have been in seclusion for cultivation recently, so they have been ck."

    "Itбпs not just about cking off, you also kept information to yourself."

    "Is Master referring to Xiao Lingyueбпs matter?"

    "Of course, Xiao Lingyue is a traitor from the Spiritual Moon Sect, and she has been taken in by Lin Batian. The Four Great Families of the Qing State have also severed ties with the Shenmu Sect, and the Shenmu Sect and the Spiritual Moon Sect no longer have their previous friendly rtionship. Isnбпt this important?""The disciple made a mistake."

    Lin Jiang didnбпt argue, he knew that Xiao Lingyue being part of the Lin family, Zhang Shuhua would inform him about this, but he didnбпt expect Zhang Wanjing to bring it up now.

    "Donбпt make this kind of mistake again."

    "The disciple knows their mistake and wonбпt make it again."

    "What important reason do you have foring back this time?"

    "No, I just miss my master and miss the sect, so I came back to take a look."

    "Are you not nning to stay?"

    "The disciple still wants to travel and see more ces."

    Lin Jiang said, he didnбпt want to stay, it would be awkward if he did.

    He was absent from the sect for a long time and no longer followed Zhang Wanjing. If he returns, he will disrupt the bnce of interests around Zhang Wanjing.

    Lin Jiang felt that if he returned, he would not be able to gain his previous benefits. He would definitely have to share some, so it would be better to stay in Shenmu City. His business in Shenmu City was already stable, although the ie was not as high as before, it was not low either.

    "Itбпs good to take a walk and broaden our horizons. If youe back, the sect still needs your help. Things are chaotic in Yun State right now, and the Five Elements Sect canбпt be affected."

    "Yes, Master."

    "Thereбпs nothing urgent, go and rest. I still have things to attend to."

    "Yes, Master."

    Lin Jiang silently left, feeling heavy andplicated.

    Lin Jiang brought a jug of wine and found Yu Wanke. Yu Wanke smiled and said. I knew you woulde back.

    "Just like I told you before, my master is different now."

    "I told you earlier, you didnбпt believe, how do you feel now?"

    "Quite good."

    "Quite good, youбпve be silly, you are different from before."

    "Really quite good."

    Lin Jiang said, he had only received sporadic news from the sect before, but now that he had returned, he felt that the sect was different.

    Zhang Wanjing took full control, his character became more decisive than before, his methods became tougher, even his heart became harder, which made it difficult for people around him to ept.

    Looking at it from the sectбпs perspective, Zhang Wanjingбпs character is highly advantageous for the sect, greatly contributing to its development. In fact, the Five Elements Sect is now even stronger than before the battle with Yun State, with a stronger momentum. Lin Jiang has met many young disciples in the past few days, they are the hope of the sect.

    "You and your master, tsk tsk, truly worthy of the same lineage."

    Yu Wanke heard Lin Jiangбпs words and ultimately shook his head, unsure of how to judge.

    "I speak with facts. May I ask, how does the current Five Elements Sectpare to the Zhonghang Sect and the Cloud Sword Sect?"

    "It surpasses them. The two sects have not fully recovered their vitality in nearly a hundred years, while the Five Elements Sect has already surpassed them, except for the Soul Changing technique."

    "Have you ever thought about why, senior brother?"

    "Umбн"

    "Senior brother is right. It is because of our master Zhang Wanjing. He is authoritarian and monopolizes power, but it is also because of his actions that the sect can operate smoothly without hindrance."

    Lin Jiang said. Zhang Wanjing is like a powerful figure in a mortal dynasty. He holds great power and his authoritarian ways are disliked. However, it is also because of his approach that the strength of the Five Elements Sect has grown rapidly. If he cannot bring benefits to the sect, the Soul Changing technique wouldnбпt allow him to act so recklessly.

    "Youбпre right, but what does it have to do with you and me?"

    Yu Wanke calmly said. Even if Zhang Wanjing does well, how does it benefit me directly? In fact, because Iбпve already stepped back, Iбпve lost even more benefits. Naturally, Iбпm not pleased.

    "Haha, letбпs not talk about this. Letбпs drink!"

    Lin Jiangughed loudly and quickly changed the topic. He knew Yu Wankeбпs mindset, which is very normal. If Lin Jiang couldnбпt seed outside, he would also be resentful. This is called "the backside decides the brain," which is the same everywhere.

    The two of them immediately stopped talking about this matter and focused on drinking. Yu Wankeбпs topic was more about his descendants. The cultivation world and ordinary people are the same. The goals that he couldnбпt achieve himself, he hoped his descendants could achieve.

    Yu Wanke couldnбпt break through to Nascent Soul, so he hoped that his descendants could. Among his descendants, there are those with excellent talents and understanding. Yu Wanke had high hopes for them, hoping that one day they could reach Nascent Soul and protect the family for thousands of years.

    After finishing this meal, Lin Jiang didnбпt leave immediately. He continued to stay in the Five Elements Sect. He even applied to the sect for a golden core residence, and the sect agreed.

    The new residence was left behind by the previous golden core cultivator. Lin Jiang didnбпt mind. After cleaning it up and changing the formation, he moved in. After that, Lin Jiang went to Zhang Wanjingбпs residence to see the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit.

    Zhang Wanjing had brought back the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit over a hundred years ago. One of them was almost ripe. Based on Lin Jiangбпs expertise as a spiritual farmer, it wouldnбпt take more than thirty years.

    Lin Jiang couldnбпt wait for this one. In thirty years, he wouldnбпt be able to reach the peak of golden core cultivation. Zhang Shuhua had a chance to make a breakthrough. What Lin Jiang was waiting for was the one with the shortest cultivation time. ording to his estimate, it would still take about two hundred years.

    And two hundred yearster, Lin Jiangбпs recorded age in the Five Elements Sect would be only a little over three hundred, and Zhang Wanjingбпs knowledge would be just over four hundred. This advantage could still be obtained.

    Of course, this would also depend on whether Zhang Wanjing was willing to give it to him because it was his personal item.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "If I donбпte looking for you, youбпll just run away and nevere back, right?"

    In the blink of an eye, it had been two months since Lin Jiang returned to the Five Elements Sect. During these two months, Lin Jiang hadnбпt looked for Zhang Wanjing again. But as the time was almost up, Lin Jiang was ready to say goodbye when Zhang Wanjing appeared, speaking to Lin Jiang with an annoyed tone.

    "How can Master say such things? Master is busy with important matters, and it wouldnбпt be convenient for the disciple to disturb."

    Lin Jiang smiled and said, during the two months they hadnбпt seen each other, it was actually a sort of confrontation. And currently, Lin Jiang had the upper hand in this psychological battle, he was unyielding.

    "Lin Die from the Lin family said youбпre narrow-minded and small-minded, it turns out she was right."

    "Master is right."

    "You came back?"

    "I wonбпte anymore, itбпs not interesting and Iбпm tired."

    Lin Jiangughed and said. Yes, I am very tired. Speaking and doing things like this is very exhausting.

    "Just stop pretending. How abouting back to the Five Elements Sect? Now that I am in charge of the sect,e back and help me."

    "I wonбпte back."

    "Are you still angry? If youe back, I will give you all the previous bonuses. After all these years, you would have umted tens of millions of spirit stones. How about that?"

    "Itбпs not about that. Iбпm noting back because Iбпm afraid it will be difficult for Master. Iбпve been away from the sect for too long, and Iбпve lost my foundation and support. Some have died, and others have grown old. Itбпs not beneficial for me to involve others. If I intervene hastily, it will disrupt the unity of the people under Masterбпs guidance, and itбпs not conducive to maintaining bnce."

    "This is a small matter."

    "Itбпs not a small matter. The higher my cultivation level, the more resources I need. The resources I had before are not enough for me to reach the Golden Core stage. I will need more."

    "You have a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    Zhang Wanjing said, Purple Origin Taoist Fruit was something he used to attract those Golden Core disciples. But one fruit is enough, and he can give it to Lin Jiang.

    "Okay, Iбпll be honest, Master should know that I have a business in Shenmu City, and itбпs going well. I want to try harder."

    "Itбпs safer to stay within your own territory."

    "Thatбпs more exciting, isnбпt it?"

    Lin Jiangughed and said. When has our own territory ever been safe? You always said we wonбпt get dividends unless we give them. At least Shenmu Sect wouldnбпt dare to treat merchants like that.

    "It seems that I canбпt make you stay."

    "Women should leave when theyбпre grown, and even sons should separate. When a discipleбпs wings are strong, flying away is good. Besides, our sect is too weak in other states. Being outside, I can still contribute to the sect. As long as the sect doesnбпt force me to choose between the sect and the Lin family, I will be the sectбпs most loyal disciple."

    "Arenбпt you afraid that one day the Lin family and Five Elements Sect will be enemies?"

    "With my lifespan, I probably wonбпt live to see that day, so Iбпm not afraid."

    Lin Jiang said. Weбпll deal with that when the timees. If I have enough strength, Iбпll forcefully mediate the conflicts between the two sects. If Iбпm not strong enough, then Iбпll run away, and no one will care.

    Zhang Wanjing became silent immediately. He knew that his actions had hurt his personal disciple, or else Lin Jiang would never have treated him like this before.

    "Master, if thereбпs nothing urgent, Iбпll take my leave."

    "No rush, I have one more task for you."

    "Please give me your orders, Master."

    "Something happened in Anhua City, you need to goбн"

    As Zhang Wanjing exined in detail, Lin Jiangбпs eyebrows furrowed.

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 Chapter 262:

    Chapter 262:

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    Yun State, Anhua City

    Even though Li Ruoxu has passed away two months ago, the current Anhua City is still filled with discussions about him. Li Ruoxu has gained great poprity in Yun State.

    He was almost at the peak of cultivation, going from a simple cultivator to reaching the level of Nascent Soul. He excelled in alchemy, surpassing the three major sects, and enjoyed great fame. Additionally, his lifespan exceeded one thousand years, making others envious.

    "Just think about Pill King, heбпs not easy toe by. A simple cultivatorбн"

    "Thinking back to the pastбн"

    Lin Jiang sat in the teahouse, hearing the discussions of the people around him. Most of thements about Li Ruoxu were positive, after all, he was the first independent cultivator and had made a great name for himself.

    Lin Jiang nced around. Anhua City had been rebuilt over the past few decades. In a war that urred many years ago, Anhua City was the first to be attacked and was left in ruins.

    Later, Li Ruoxu took over Anhua City and spent approximately twenty years rebuilding it. He then took another thirty years to restore Anhua City to its former prosperity. This just goes to show Li Ruoxuбпs abilities.This person truly has great talent. Not only is he exceptionally skilled in alchemy, but he is also proficient in management. Under his control, Anhua City thrived.

    Amongst the various discussions, Lin Jiang heard them talk about the new City Lord of Anhua City. This person was familiar to Lin Jiang, he was Wen Xing, Li Ruoxuбпs disciple and son-inw.

    Wen Xing was also a goal that independent cultivators aspired to. However, his style was different from Li Ruoxuбпs. Li Ruoxu had made his way up through hard work, like a self-made wealthy individual.

    And Wen Xing is the perfect example of someone who takes advantage of others. He started as a simple farmer, but after catching the eye of Li Ruoxuбпs daughter, his cultivation soared. From the beginning stages of Qi Refining, Building Foundation, Golden Core, and Nascent Soul, he smoothly advanced and eventually took over Li Ruoxuбпs position, bing the ruler of Anhua City.

    "He really hit the jackpot in life."

    Lin Jiang sighed, feeling envious of Wen Xing. He wished he could also eat such easy food and bepletely satisfied.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    One hundred and thirty miles outside of Anhua City, lies Li Ruoxuбпsvish tomb. There is even a group of cultivators guarding it.

    These people are all Li Ruoxuбпs grand-disciples. Wen Xing was not the only disciple he had, but the others had all passed away before him. They each had their own families and became the foundation for Li Ruoxuбпs development of Anhua City.

    "I once said I would dance on your grave. Should I still do it?"

    Lin Jiang looked at Li Ruoxuбпs tomb and muttered to himself. Back in Yunzhong City, Li Ruoxu had forcibly changed his appearance, which was a very disrespectful act. If Lin Jiang had been stronger back then, he would have fought him right then and there.

    Lin Jiang hesitated for a long time, ultimately deciding not to dance on the grave. It wasnбпt because Lin Jiang was kind-hearted, but because Li Ruoxuбпs death seemed suspicious. Zhang Wanjing had told him about it and given him this task.

    ording to what Zhang Wanjing said, the Five Elements Sect carefully reviewed Li Ruoxuбпs background and estimated that he was around one thousand one to one thousand two years old.

    Considering Nascent Soulcultivatorбпs lifespan of about one thousand years, this is still quite long. But letбпs not forget that Li Ruoxu himself is a highly valued Alchemist, so itбпs normal for him to seek longevity treasures with his Alchemy skills and wealth. Zhang Wanjing suspects that Li Ruoxu faked his death.

    As for why he would fake his death, Zhang Wanjing doesnбпt know yet. Further investigation is needed, which is why he asked Lin Jiang to participate in the investigation. In simple terms, he wants to investigate using Lin Jiangбпs rtionship with the Lin family.

    This time, Lin Jiang didnбпt refuse because Zhang Wanjing also said that this mission is not mandatory. If he has free time, he can do it, and if not, itбпs okay.

    "Li Ruoxu, did you fake your death? Let me know for certain. If you faked it, Iбпll find you and celebrate!"

    Lin Jiang sighed and said, at this point, Lin Jiang is also very curious whether Li Ruoxu really faked his death. If he truly died, he would have to celebrate with him. He has been waiting for this celebration for centuries.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Anhua Cityбпs new City Lordбпs Mansion is more luxurious and grand than before. It upies nearly one-fifth of Anhua Cityбпs territory, including the administrative area of the city. Its design was inspired by the pces in the mortal world, with offices in the front and residence in the back.

    Wen Xing personally designed and participated in the construction of this City Lordбпs Mansion. From the beginning, Wen Xing considered the aspect of enjoyment because he had a feeling that he would eventually be the owner of this City Lordбпs Mansion.

    "Thisnd belongs to me, Wen Xing."

    Standing on the attic of City Lord Mansion, Wen Xing looked out over the entire Anhua City. A sense of pride welled up inside him. After roaming Yun State for hundreds of years, he had finally established his own territory.

    This territory was no small feat. Li Ruoxu had practically taken over thend from the Lin family, which included not only Anhua City but also a vast area spanning tens of thousands of miles. He had thousands of vassal forces under hismand.

    Now that he had taken control of Anhua City, it meant he had also acquired other territories. With such a vast expanse ofnd, millions of cultivators were now under hismand.

    As an independent cultivator who had worked his way up, Wen Xing had reached the pinnacle among independent cultivators. How could he not be proud?

    "Master, everything is ready."

    A young man approached Wen Xing with a tray in his hands, carrying several signs.

    Hearing the voice, Wen Xing turned around and nodded to the young man. Over the hundreds of years under Li Ruoxuбпsmand, he had his own disciples and even their descendants who had formed their own families.

    There was no other way. They were a group of independent cultivators who hade together. If they didnбпt rely on this strategy to expand their influence, they wouldnбпt be able to hold on to such a vast territory.

    "Did Wen Rujian and the others make arrangements?"

    "Yes, they have made arrangements for someone to guard the spirit in ce of the master, and others to guard the town. The Martial Uncles are also doing the same. Now, no one in Anhua City can stop the master anymore."

    "Very good."

    Wen Xing nodded. Wen Rujian was his eldest son. Li Ruoxuбпs daughter gave birth to three sons and a daughter for him, but he didnбпt have any affection for these children.

    He didnбпt like Li Ruoxuбпs daughter from the beginning. He just pretended to change his ways for hundreds of years, making everyone think that he had turned over a new leaf.

    Now that Li Ruoxu has passed away, he sent away his children and the offspring of Li Ruoxuбпs other disciples. Anhua City is under hisplete control.

    "What about the master tonightбн"

    "Tell everyone toe to my room. Also, inform those followers that within a year, they must bring me a woman with good talent and a Foundation Building level of cultivation."

    "Master, isnбпt this going too far?"

    "What a great achievement! Look at the Lin family, Lin Batian alone has created a big n. This is what we should learn."

    Wen Xing said that Lin Batian used to be someone he greatly admired. He had numerous wives, concubines, and children. This is what a great man does.

    On the other hand, Wen Xing served under Li Ruoxu for hundreds of years. Although he asionally went out to have fun, he never dared to bring women back or even have children.

    This was not eptable to him. With such arge family business, should he just let others benefit from it like Li Ruoxu? He wasnбпt that foolish. Now that his wife had passed away and no one could control him anymore, it was only natural for him to establish arge harem and have children. The future master of Anhua City could only carry the Wen surname.

    "Yes, master, I will make the arrangements."

    "Go ahead. The master will not treat you unfairly. In a few days, ten shops in the city will be transferred to your name."

    "Thank you, master. I will take my leave now."

    The young man was overjoyed and happily left. Whatever the master was willing to do, that was the masterбпs business. He would receive the benefits first before anything else.

    After a while, Wen Xing returned to his own room, where there were many beautiful women waiting for him. Wen Xing didnбпt have many hobbies in his life, but women were the most apparent.

    Wen Xing had been a good man in front of Li Ruoxu for hundreds of years, but now Li Ruoxu finally died and he could have some fun. This is called revenge spending.

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 Chapter 263:

    Chapter 263:

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    Yun State, Anhua City

    "Did you hear? Wen Xing hasnбпt been taking care of things for half a month. Heбпs been partying every night as a groom."

    "I heard a long time ago. The single female cultivators in the city are now called Mrs. Wen."

    "Haha, from now on, Wen Xing can be called Mr. Wen."

    "What Mr. Wen? He should be called Mr. Wen Daddy. Havenбпt you heard? He wants to marry beautiful women from all 28 sects and 76 cities in Yun State, one woman from each sect and city. He wants to be the father of the whole Yun State."

    In the restaurant of Anhua City, after about a month, Lin Jiang heard that the content of the conversation among ordinary cultivators had changed. It used to be about missing Li Ruoxu, but now it was making fun of Wen Xing.

    To be made fun of, you naturally need to have something interesting about you, and Wen Xing provided countless opportunities for that. For example, he gathered most of the famous single female cultivators in the city and made the subordinate disciples send beautiful women as tribute, and so on.

    He worked hard by himself, working in the fields every day and staying upte at night, hoping to create an entire family within a year."Having a child should be like Lord Warm City, heбпs the ideal example for cultivators like us."

    "Haha, if I could be Lord Warm City for just one day, it would be worth dying for."

    "With your small frame, you wouldnбпtst half a day."

    "Matters of love and rtionships are trivial. Have any sects or families emphasized the need for only one wife? Look at Li Ruoxu, he cherished only one person and left behind a daughter, but in the end, the family legacy went to an outsider. Thatбпs the lesson here."

    "Yes, what Wen Xing did may not have been fair, but itбпs not unreasonable either. Letбпs see how Wen Xing acts next. As long as he does things well, these are insignificant matters."

    Amidst the discussion, not everyone spoke negatively; some still held an appreciative attitude. Especially considering Li Ruoxuбпs example, with his abilities, he could have had as many women as he wanted, but he didnбпt. He only had one woman and one daughter, so Wen Xing easily inherited the vast family fortune.

    While Li Ruoxu might be able to ept this fact, most people cannot, so they donбпt consider Wen Xingбп actions excessive.

    This is due to different values; itбпs impossible to determine who is right. Itбпs merely the choices of different people.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Based on my judgment, there is a 70% chance that Li Ruoxu faked his death."

    Lin Jiang said to Zhang Wanjing at the entrance of the Five Elements Sect.

    "How did youe up with this 70% probability?"

    "After conducting investigations and gathering information from various sources, I can confirm that Li Ruoxu was a very passionate person. He only had one woman in his life and left behind a daughter named Li Xianxian. He cherished her greatly and spent a lot of money on her, even to the extent of providing her with a strong education. As a result, Li Xianxian has lived for over four hundred years. Thises at a high cost."

    "Please continue."

    In reality, Li Ruoxu wasnбпtpletely satisfied with Wen Xing. Although he had exceptional alchemy talent, his character was promiscuous. It was only because Li Xianxian liked him that Li Ruoxu epted him.

    ording tomon sense, Li Ruoxu would have continued this affection onto the children of Li Xianxian to ensure their future. However, Li Ruoxu didnбпt do this, which is unusual.

    Additionally, there is the issue of Li Ruoxuбпs lifespan. If his daughter can extend her life by over two hundred years, he surely couldnбпt have a shorter lifespan. It should be even longer, logically.

    "Besides the issue of longevity that you mention, everything else is nonsense."

    After listening to Zhang Wanjing, he directly said to Lin Jiang that everything Lin Jiang said was without solid evidence and all just wild spection.

    "Itбпs my ipetence, please forgive me, Master."

    Lin Jiang shrugged. He had already finished eating the melon and had exined the situation. The rest didnбпt matter.

    "Canбпt you just ask Lin Batian? I didnбпt ask for anything, I just want to know the general idea."

    "Master, Anhua Cityбпs power now, even if it multiplies several times, is still no match for Five Elements Sect. Whatбпs the rush? Just let them mess around."

    "You donбпt understand. If Li Ruoxu could live for another thousand years, he could really challenge the position of Five Elements Sect. His alchemy skills are amazing."

    "Five Elements Sect also has alchemists."

    "Advanced alchemists and top alchemists may be of the same level, but the real difference between them is huge. Li Ruoxu is a rare alchemy genius that Yun State hasnбпt seen in ten thousand years. Donбпt underestimate him."

    "Okay, as long as the master is willing."

    Lin Jiang thought Zhang Wanjing was making a fuss over nothing. Relying on one personбпs power alone is useless. Take the Lin family for example, Lin Batian is already powerful, but he still needs assistance from others. Being strong on your own is pointless.

    "You should go and ask the Lin family, so that the sect can have a clue."

    "Iбпll casually mention it, but if they donбпt want to talk, thereбпs nothing I can do."

    "Alright, as long as you have the intention."

    "Then thereбпs nothing to discuss, Iбпll take my leave."

    "Iбпll decide, you can receive twenty yearsбп sry in advance."

    "Thank you, master."

    Lin Jiang nodded his head. He epted small favors. Twenty years is a long time, and there are hundreds of thousands of spirit stones involved.

    In the following few days, Lin Jiang continued to linger at the Five Elements Sect. When he was about to leave, he suddenly remembered someone, and that someone was Gu Pingbo, the Nascent Soul expert who had lost his motivation to pursue the path of immortality.

    Previously, Lin Jiang had tricked Gu Pingbo intoing to Yun State and also wrote a letter to Zhang Wanjing, hoping that he would keep Gu Pingbo there. Unfortunately, the Five Elements Sect didnбпt manage to do so.

    However, even though Gu Pingbo didnбпt stay at the Five Elements Sect, he remained in Yun State, specifically in a ce more than three thousand miles east of Anhua City. He had taken over a small hill, living independently without bing anyoneбпs follower.

    Lin Jiang bought some good wine and went to visit Gu Pingbo. Where Gu Pingbo was, there were no formations set up, only countless peach blossoms covering the mountains.

    "Peach Blossom Mountain"

    "In Peach Blossom Temple, within Peach Blossom Temple, there is Peach Blossom Fairy, who grows peach treesбн"

    Lin Jiang stood in front of the peach-covered mountain and recited a poem aloud. As expected, right after he finished speaking, Gu Pingbo appeared.

    "Itбпs you, Xiao Yi."

    "Greetings, senior, I hope youбпre doing well."

    "Read what you just read again."

    "Haha, itбпs already written down."

    Lin Jiang took out a piece of paper with a song written by Tang Bohu from the Ming Dynasty called "Peach Blossom Temple." Lin Jiang really liked the line in the poem that says, "Othersugh at my madness, Iugh at their inability to see through." So, a long time ago, he memorized it.

    "Othersugh at my madness, Iugh at their inability to see through. These words speak to my heart."

    Gu Pingbo looked and looked, then nodded at Lin Jiang.

    "Sir, there is a guest. Shouldnбпt we offer some hospitality?"

    "Come in, but we only have Peach Blossom Wine, nothing else."

    "Peach Blossom Wine is a fine thing."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly, then he and Gu Pingbo entered Peach Blossom Mountain. Inside the mountain was just a grass hut, there was nothing else.

    "Oh, alcohol!"

    "You donбпt have to drink if you donбпt like it."

    "Haha, thereбпs nothing to dislike. Howбпs life been, senior?"

    "Very clever!"

    "Such a clever method!"

    Thereбпs no noise, no hatred. You donбпt need to worry about being killed or think about killing anyone. Every day, you can farm, grow flowers, go fishing, listen to the birds singing in the mountains, and enjoy the changing sun, moon, and stars. How wonderful is that?

    Gu Pingbo said, his gaze calm and undisturbed, as if he was already immersed in this state.

    "Seniorбпs life is enviable."

    "You can experience it too."

    "I am just an ordinary person, ordinary people canбпt see through the mundane matters, they can only roll around in the midst of it."

    "Hahaha, then you canбпt stay here with me, donбпt let yourmonness pollute my home."

    "No stay, no stay. I came today just to see how the elder is doing. Seeing the elder living so freely, the younger generation feels at ease."

    "You little guy actually came? Trick me intoing to Yun State, hehe."

    "Elder, didnбпt you choose to stay too? It shows that the elder also likes it here."

    "Youбпre right, letбпs drink."

    "Cheers!"

    Lin Jiang raised his cup and clinked sses with Gu Pingbo. After that, they no longer talked about worldly matters.

    As Lin Jiang listened to Gu Pingboбпs stories about what he did in this ce, it was all about everyday details. He would even spend three days and three nights watching ants move their homes, and a month observing birds hatching eggs. All of this seemed vivid and interesting in his eyes.

    Even Gu Pingbo would often feel regret, regretting spending so much time and effort on cultivating, killing, and pursuing the elusive immortality.

    He also regrets that when he was in the Divine Kingdom, he didnбпt take the time to appreciate the present life. At that time, he only wanted to go forward and was simply foolish.

    Lin Jiang no longer talked much about this. His pursuit was different from Gu Pingboбпs. Gu Pingbo had given up anything rted to cultivating, and he just hoped that the remaining time would be more interesting. As for Lin Jiang, he still wanted to make further progress.

    After finishing a drink, Gu Pingbo didnбпt give Lin Jiang a chance to spend the night. He personally escorted Lin Jiang to the outside of Peach Blossom Mountain. He took off his storage bag from his waist and said. I donбпt know how many years I can live, maybe thirty years, maybe fifty years, but I have severed ties with the path of immortality. Do me a favor, and all the things here are for you.

    "Please speak, senior."

    "After I die, donбпt let cultivators pollute this ce. Just let ordinary people live here. It doesnбпt have to be for a long time, maybe a hundred years. How about that?"

    "Okay."

    "Thank you very much."

    "Goodbye, senior."

    "Itбпs goodbye forever, hahaha."

    Gu Pingbo threw his bag andughed out loud, then turned around and left, singing happily along the way.

    Lin Jiang received the bag, bowed to Gu Pingbo, and then walked away.

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 Chapter 264:

    Chapter 264:

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    Qing State, Lu Family Entrance

    The entrance to the Lu Family was originally the entrance to the Infinite Pce. It was grand and magnificent, a sight of Qing State. However, there was no trace of the Infinite Pce now. Inside and out, it exuded the charm of an ancient aristocratic family.

    The Lu Family Entrance was decked with lights and decorations today. Disciples were repeatedly cleaning the road. It seemed that the entire Lu Family was waiting for someone.

    After a while, arge flying vessel approached from afar. Lu Family Ancestor and others opened the formation and allowed the vessel tond inside the entrance. Xu Mingyue led a group of disciples into the Lu Family Entrance.

    "Elder Lu"

    "Old Master Xu"

    Xu Mingyue and Lu Family Ancestor bowed, while the other three cultivators also bowed.

    After a simple greeting, everyone arrived at the Lu familyбпs ancestral hall and had a friendly discussion. Today is the day of alliance between the Spiritual Moon Sect and the Qing Stateбпs four major families.In previous years, the Spiritual Moon Sect was chasing after the traitor Xiao Lingyue, but was intercepted by Lin Batian in the Wilderness. Lin Batian pretended to be from the Lin family of the Qing State. Naturally, the Spiritual Moon Sect wanted an exnation from the Lin family.

    Once this question was asked, they naturally learned of Lin Batianбпs identity. The Spiritual Moon Sect felt frustrated. They couldnбпt defeat the Shenmu Sect, and now it seemed like they couldnбпt even capture the remnants of the Lin family. They were about to lose face again.

    Seeing this, the Lin familyбпs head, Lin Xuwen, saw it as an opportunity and intentionally cooperated with the Spiritual Moon Sect. They had multiple contacts because they both had amon enemy. They gradually became familiar with each other.

    However, soon the person in contact with the Spiritual Moon Sect changed from the Lin family to the Lu family and the Yu family. The four major families were now in charge because they had a Tao Achieving Ancestor, while the Lin family and the Chen family no longer had one.

    Nowadays, the four major families actually need allies. They have been in existence for decades. Initially, they were busy consolidating their territories and dealing with the remnants of the four major sects. Then, for no reason, they offended the Shenmu Sect before making any friends.

    This is not beneficial for the four major families. Although their territories are vast and they have various resources, it is not conducive to development if they are confined to one ce. The four major families need to go out and make more friends.

    So, under the intentional friendship of the four major families, their rtionship with the Spiritual Moon Sect progressed rapidly.

    And it is the same for the Spiritual Moon Sect, they also need allies. Among the top powers, the Spiritual Moon Sect is rtively weak. Thatбпs why they wanted to form an alliance with the Shenmu Sect. Now that they have be estranged from the Shenmu Sect, they need allies even more. The appearance of the four major families in the Qing State brought great joy to the Spiritual Moon Sect because the four major families are stronger than the Shenmu Sect and can bring them more benefits.

    After negotiations, the two sides quickly agreed on the allianceбпs general scope. The first priority is to jointly deal with Lin Batian and Xiao Lingyue, who are enemies to both sides. No need to say more.

    The second priority is to open up trade between each otherбпs territories. The entire Qing State is open to the Spiritual Moon Sect, allowing their businesses to establish and providing some preferential policies, and vice versa, the Spiritual Moon Sect will also open their markets.

    Of course, in this respect, the four major families are at a disadvantage. The size of the Spiritual Moon Sect cannot bepared to the Qing State. Therefore, the Spiritual Moon Sect agrees to persuade forces that are on good terms with them to be friends with the Qing State, even if they are not allies and not in a hostile state.

    With these two points achieved, everything else is trivial, like cooperation and exchange between disciples from both sides, those are just secondary matters.

    "Lord Xu,e and take a look. These are the outstanding young talents among our four familiesбп descendants. They can be considered as talented youth. I wonder if your sect has any that catch your eye. How about we strengthen our friendship even more?"

    In the end, Lu Family Ancestor gave a signal, and dozens of handsome young men walked in from outside. They were all outstanding descendants of the four families.

    Xu Mingyueбпs expression stiffened. She nced at these juniors, all of them were men. She couldnбпt help but sigh in her heart: all men in the world are the same, trying to take advantage of women. Itбпs truly hateful. Each and every ally has intentions towards her female disciples. Wonбпt the female disciples painstakingly cultivated by her Spiritual Moon Sect all be someone elseбпs daughters-inw?

    No matter how Xu Mingyue felt inside, he quickly put on a smile and said. Alright, alright. It would be wonderful if our families can be connected through marriage. I have dozens of female disciples with me. Why not let them go out and see if they find someone they like the most?

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "This Gu Pingbo is truly a genius in alchemy. Although we are both fifth-tier Alchemists, his alchemy skills are better than mine."

    In Shenmu City, Lin Dongyan held a alchemy handbook and said to Lin Jiang, he was attracted by the content in Lin Jiangбпs alchemy handbook.

    "How about it, can I help you break through to be a sixth-tier Alchemist?"

    "I could have already made sixth-tier elixirs, but the sess rate is extremely low because my spiritual consciousness and spiritual power are not strong enough. I have to wait until I break through to the Nascent Soul stage."

    "So that means itбпs useless then, just give it back to me."

    "Come on, Uncle, you donбпt practice alchemy anyway. This handbook is useless to you, but it is priceless to me."

    "Hehe, arenбпt you afraid of getting into trouble?"

    "If you have trouble, go to Uncle Uncle first, whye to me?"

    Lin Dongyan smiled and said. This note is Gu Pingboбпs experience in alchemy, and there are many things in it that are quite secret. Theye from the Danxia Sect, the sect behind Gu Pingbo.

    The Danxia Sect is another powerful force in the central region. Its founder is famous for his alchemy. Since then, the Danxia Sect has passed down this tradition and is still renowned for its alchemy.

    Nowadays, all alchemy in the cultivation world is influenced by the Danxia Sect. Their theories are very powerful and have created many elixirs. In Gu Pingboбпs note, there is some content rted to this. At first, Lin Dongyan was afraid of getting into trouble with the Danxia Sect by reading this note, but he couldnбпt resist the temptation of its contents.

    For someone obsessed with alchemy, the things here are like a hungry ghost seeing a beautiful woman, especially when sheбпspletely naked.

    "Alright, ording to what we agreed before,e live with me for thirty years and spend three months each year making elixirs for me."

    "Sounds good, sounds good. It wonбпt just be me, but my nephews, brothers, and cousins will alsoe."

    "Oh, buy one get one free?"

    "Buy one, get many. At least twenty people. In addition, there will also be artisans, talisman makers, and formation mastersing. How about that? Isnбпt my family treating you well?"

    "Donбпt take my share."

    Lin Jiang became nervous. The Lin family is making such a big move, could it be that they want his property? They want him to work for free, and he wonбпt get anything in return?

    "Look at our uncle, so selfish. How could the mighty Lin family take away their own descendantsбп inheritance?"

    "Iбпm afraid the family head will say, боYou are mine, and whatбпs mine is still mine.бп"

    "Underestimating the family head, arenбпt we?"

    "Letбпs first put it in writing. The workers are all family members, so donбпt worry, I will not cheat you."

    "No problem. We should give them the same treatment as Lin Cunjian and the others in the past."

    Lin Dongyan said, and Lin Jiang couldnбпt help but smile. Good nephew, Iбпve been waiting to hear that from you. You really are my good nephew.

    In the following weeks, the Lin family members slowly started moving to Shenmu City. But when Lin Jiang looked at the crowded yards, he couldnбпt help but lose his smile.

    He felt cheated, he thought the Lin family was foolish, but in fact, the Lin family saw him as a scapegoat. Oh, wait, they saw him as a nanny, even a bunch of seven or eight-year-old kids came along.

    "Lin Dongyan, you tell me if something big is going to happen with the Lin family again."

    Lin Jiang immediately found Lin Dongyan and questioned him. Lin Jiang realized that something was not right.

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 Chapter 265:

    Chapter 265:

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    Zhongzhou, the residence of the Lin family

    The sky was filled with dark clouds, as if a heavy rainstorm was about toe. Among the clouds, five flying boats slowly approached the Lin family residence.

    Spiritual Moon Sect Xu Mingyue held a Soul Lamp and said to Lu Family Ancestor and Yu Familyбпs Ancestor, "ording to the clues found through secret methods, the traitor Xiao Lingyue is here."

    "I used my Magical Eye to take a look. There are indeed many people down there, and some of them match the information. They are descendants of Lin Batian. However, the number of people is less than expected. I suspect itбпs a trap."

    "Trap? Ancestor Yu, are you overthinking? With the three of us attacking at the same time, what trap can harm us?"

    Xu Mingyue was a bit unhappy when he heard this, and wondered if Yu familyбпs Ancestor was afraid. With the three Tao Achieving experts present, how many people could stop them?

    "Ancestor Yu, you may not know, but Lin Batian has taken away the secrets of the Lin family. He is cunning and we must be on guard against him."

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor patiently exined that Chen Zheng had been killed by Lin Batian because he was careless. They didnбпt want to make the same mistake again."Ancestor Yu is right. Lin Batian has been hidden in the Shenmu Sect for many years, and Xiao Lingyue has been unable to find him. Now suddenly there is a clue. I think itбпs a trap."

    The Ancestor of the Lu Family nodded as well. He was most afraid that Lin Batian had truly achieved the merging of the four secret techniques. If that was the case, all four major families were in danger beneath their two powers.

    "So what do you suggest we do? Weбпve alreadye this far, should we just run away?"

    "Of course not, but for safetyбпs sake, letбпs not pour all our strength in at once. Only one of us should go down."

    "Iбпll go. Ancestor Yu and Brother Lu can stay behind. Iбпll lead the team and go in."

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor nodded. This was the safest approach and the other two didnбпt object.

    Immediately, Yu familyбпs ancestors counted their troops. The main force was the four major familyбпs troops, with the Spiritual Moon Sect only sending a few people to assist. With Yu familyбпs ancestors leading the way, they attacked the residence of the Lin family.

    "Boom!"

    Yu familyбпs ancestor cleverly broke through the defense formation of Lin familyбпs residence with one move, then quickly entered inside. However, upon reaching the inside, they discovered that there were only a few dozen people there, while the roughly thousand people seen from the outside with the Magical Eye were mostly illusions.

    "Enemy attack!"

    Someone let out a sharp, long howl. Before Yu familyбпs ancestor and their group could react, a golden light shed and spread rapidly in all directions. In an instant, the golden light covered a vast area of tens of thousands of miles, forming a formation.

    "Dutian Formation, Li Yuncheng."

    Lu Familyбпs ancestor outside the formation had a drastic change in expression, recognizing the source of this change.

    "Lu family youngster, we meet again."

    Li Yuncheng transformed his body and appeared in front of Lu Familyбпs ancestor, smiling as he spoke.

    "You really became Lin Batianбпs ve."

    "Maybe, but itбпs useless to say anything now."

    "Before, I couldnбпt do anything to you in Bing State because you had over a hundred Spiritual Veins as your foundation. Here, how many Spiritual Veins can you connect, Li Yuncheng? Be smart and activate the array formation, or youбпll definitely be destroyed today."

    "Boring."

    Li Yuncheng chuckled, and Lu Family Ancestor became furious. With one move, Li Yunchengбпs body instantly shattered, but hisughter remained crisp.

    "Attack the array formation, quickly!"

    Lu Family Ancestormanded, and everyone outside the formation immediately started attacking frantically.

    At the same time, inside the formation, Yu Familyбпs Ancestor also received intense attacks, most of which were caused by the array formation. Lin Family was trying to escape.

    Yu Familyбпs Ancestor managed to withstand ny percent of the attacks, but he quickly encountered an opponent. Lin Batian appeared, his momentum as a Void Achiever was evident.

    "You old thief, you canбпt do it! You foolishly rushed in again."

    "Lin Batian, today is your time to die."

    "Haha, besides having a sharp tongue, you are weak all over."

    Lin Batianughed and said. Yu familyбпs ancestor, stop babbling and attack Lin Batian.

    "With my great skills, I will test you today."

    Lin Batian was not afraid at all. He had been hiding in Shenmu City for decades, using the divine fruit bestowed by Shenmu Ancestor to break through his cultivation to the Void Achieving stage. Immediately after achieving Void Achieving, he set up this trap to see how strong he really was.

    "Three heads and six arms."

    "ying God Spear."

    Lin Batian transformed into his Soul Changing Dharma Appearance, with three heads, six arms, two hands holding a spear, two hands using the Sun Shooting technique. The remaining two hands were empty for now, as he hadnбпt found suitable weapons yet. However, they were not idle, as they were forming hand seals to cast spells.

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor saw Lin Batian using the Yu familyбпs special technique, and felt great anger. This secret technique is not something that just anyone can learn, even among the Yu familyбпs descendants. It was a great shame to see someone else learn it.

    Yu familyбпs Ancestor also used the special technique and fought against Lin Batian. With their strong skills, they quickly subdued Lin Batian.

    "I can suppress him with 50% of my strength, which shouldst for about 15 minutes. After that, my outer barrier will break, and the two Tao Achieving Ancestors outside wille in to attack."

    Li Yunchengбпs voice reached Lin Batianбпs ears. This trap was too rushed. Lin Batian didnбпt provide enough spirit veins for him. Although he forcefully expanded them to over 10,000 miles and is currently absorbing spiritual energy frantically, it is still not enough.

    "Half an hour is enough. At that time, I will take you away."

    Lin Batian replied. As soon as they started fighting, he realized he was no match for a Tao Achieving Ancestor. With his strong determination, he could onlyst a few dozen rounds. Thatбпs all. Because he had only learned the three-headed six-armed technique, he hadnбпt even mastered the techniques of the Three Pure Ones or the ever-changing transformations. So, when the timees, he can only escape using the Spatiotemporal Mirror.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Qing State, Southwest region

    There is a mountain range here called ck Stone Mountain, which contains a precious mineral called Ink Essence. It has great value and used to be the most important mining area under the Infinite Pceбпs control, but it ended up in the hands of the Yu family.

    The Yu family also values this greatly and sent Void Achieving Ancestor Yu Chenglin to be in charge here, bringing Yu family abundant profits every year.

    Meanwhile, the Ink Essence mine has fallen into crisis. Hundreds of ck-d people have broken through the mineбпs formation and are ruthlessly killing Yu family descendants, looting the mined stones.

    "Remnants of the Infinite Pce."

    Yu Chenglin quickly recognized one of the skilled Void Achievers among them and identified his identity.

    "Tian Li from the Infinite Pce is here, you old thief of the Yu family, prepare to die."

    The Void Achiever directly removed his mask andunched an attack against Yu Chenglin. The Infinite Pce was destroyed by the Yu family, and he is thest surviving Void Achiever of the Infinite Pce. For nearly a hundred years, he has been constantly thinking about revenge and restoring the Infinite Pce.

    However, the enemyбпs strength is too strong, and he has been defeated many times. If it werenбпt for Lin Batianбпs help, they would have died long ago.

    "How dare a mere remnant act arrogantly."

    Yu Chenglin sneered, directly using the Soul Changing Dharma Appearance and attacking Tian Li. The four major families possess top-level secret techniques, which make them look down on other Void Achievers.

    "Tian, donбпt worry, Wei Dao ising."

    Tian Li is not a match for Yu Chenglin. Soon, the only remaining Void Achieving Wei Dao from the Taixu Sect appeared and quickly stabilized the situation for Tian Li.

    Wei Dao didnбпte alone, he brought a group of people with him, instantly suppressing the power of the Yu family. The situation became very worrying, and Yu Chenglin didnбпt dare to fight alone. He quickly asked for help from the Yu family.

    "Tian, donбпt be too reckless. In a quarter of an hour, retreat immediately."

    Seeing Tian Li in a terrible condition, Wei Dao immediately reminded him that when the Taixu Sect fell, they received help from Lin Batian. The surviving members of the sect were more numerous, allowing Wei Dao to evacuate more people. The Infinite Pce suffered heavy losses, and Tian Li had a deep hatred in his heart. He would go all-out in every action, which had ruined things several times.

    "Friend Wei, you go first. Iбпll hold them back," Tian Li said.

    Tian Li directly replied that when enemies meet, their desires for revenge be especially strong. He couldnбпt care about anything else anymore and would definitely fight to the death.

    Seeing this, Wei Dao didnбпt say anything else. If Tian Li didnбпt leave when the quarter of an hour was up, he would have to leave.

    Yu Chenglin wasnбпt in a hurry anymore. He switched from attacking to defending, just waiting for reinforcements to arrive. He could easily kill these remnants. For the past century, these people had been constantly killing the descendants of the four major families, which had made them sick to their stomachs. It wasnбпt that they couldnбпt defeat them, but rather that these people were too cunning and they couldnбпt catch them.

    Little did Yucheng Lin know, it wasnбпt just this one mine that was attacked. There were attacks on as many as a dozen ces in Qing State.

    The remaining forces of the Four Major Sects, led by the main force of the Lin family, along with the Dark Night assassins,unched attacks on more than a dozen ces in Qing State. The four major families were exhausted, and a storm was brewing in Qing State.

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 Chapter 266:

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    Qing State, Anyang Town

    Anyang Town is located in the northwest of Qing State, on the edge of the Lin familyбпs territory. If the Lin family controls Anyang Town, they control the territory spanning thousands of miles around it. Every few years, nearby vassal forces would pay tribute to Anyang Town, which would then be taken back to the Lin familyбпs gate by the descendants of Anyang Townбпs Lin family.

    At this moment, Anyang Town also came under attack, and only thest defensive line remained.

    "Boom"

    Suddenly, a violent explosion erupted within Anyang Town. Several descendants of the Lin family mercilessly killed those around them, breaking the defensive line and allowing the ck-clothed figures outside to enter.

    "Those with gold-bordered sleeves are our own people, let them go."

    Lin Die secretlymunicated with her subordinates, and everyone quickly noticed the gold trim on their sleeves. They immediately made way, but the remaining people were quickly killed.

    "Hurry, leave.""Leave us with some injuries, otherwise we wonбпt be able to exin."

    "Okay."

    Lin Die personally took action, controlling her strength and leaving them with a wound. The few people quickly flew away from Anyang Town.

    "In fifteen minutes, quickly leave."

    Lin Die told everyone, quickly clearing the battlefield. When the time came, even if there were good things, they didnбпt want them anymore, and quickly left.

    Meanwhile, on the other side of Qing State, in the small city directly under Lu familyбпs control, Lin Ying had already led people to invade. The guarding Lu family Nascent Soul had been killed, and the young members of the Lin family were looting rampantly.

    Lin Ying said to the people beside her, "Quickly return to Yun State and donбпt show up recently. Wait for our message."

    "Remember to give what you promised."

    "The four secret techniques are ready. Weбпll send them to you once we have them arranged properly."

    "Letбпs go."

    Several people dressed in ck looked at each other and quickly left, disappearing from sight.

    "Letбпs go, we donбпt need it anymore."

    Lin Ying waited for the people in ck to leave and then immediately left as well. There were too many things to steal, so it was time to stop.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Zhongzhou, the residence of the Lin family.

    The three Tao Achieving Ancestors looked at the empty mountain top, and their anger reached its peak.

    "Brothers, what is the treasure that Lin Batian is using, and why arenбпt our sealing methods effective?"

    "It is the Spatiotemporal Mirror, a treasure left by the Green Emperor."

    The Ancestor of the Lu Family casually mentioned that the Green Emperor had many treasures, some of which were extraordinary and unique. These treasures should have been buried with the Green Emperor, but they ended up in the hands of the Lin Family. This is also one of the reasons why the three families started targeting the Lin Family.

    Although the Lin Family exined that it was because the Green Emperor favored their ancestors and deliberately bestowed the treasures upon them, the three families didnбпt ept this reason. They believed that the Lin Family secretly opened the Green Emperor Tomb.

    Anyway, the true reason cannot be investigated anymore. The damned ones are already gone.

    "What do we do now?"

    "Brother Yu is already investigating."

    "He found out that Lin Batian went to the Shenmu Sect and is hiding with Shenmu Ancestor."

    As the words of the Ancestor of the Lu Family fell, the Ancestor of the Yu Family immediately spoke up.

    "Shenmu Ancestor, my brother, what should we do?"

    "We are no match for Shenmu Ancestor. In the current cultivation world, I canбпt think of anyone who could defeat him. Last time, he didnбпt even consider using his true power against us."

    "I know, but itбпs frustrating. Youбпve seen what Qing State looks like now."

    Lu Family Ancestor said, they have received countless calls for help. Almost half of Qing State is under attack, but they are not sending their elite forces to help. They donбпt want to be manipted by Lin Batian and want to capture him.

    "Brothers, fighting head-on, regardless of victory or defeat, doesnбпt benefit us. Letбпs think of another solution."

    "Does Master Xu have a good idea?"

    "No faction likes to deal with trouble. Shenmu Sect is no exception. Since Lin Batian is now involved with my traitor, we can use this opportunity. We will fan the mes and apply pressure. Shenmu Sect will definitely not shelter Lin Batian. There arenбпt many forces in the world that can stop us. He wonбпt be able to escape anywhere."

    "That makes sense. Letбпs go back to Qing State and put out the fire first, then deal with this matter. As long as Xiao Lingyue is alive, we can still find Lin Batian."

    Lu Family Ancestor nodded. They couldnбпt find Lin Batian before, but now itбпs different. As long as Xiao Lingyue is still alive, they have a chance to find Lin Batian.

    The people immediately left and rushed back to the town of Qing State to suppress the attacks. At this time, two Tao Achieving from Shenmu Sect also arrived in front of Shenmu Ancestor.

    "Shenmu Ancestor, why did you take in Lin Batian again?"

    "I am happy to, do I have the right to?"

    "Ancestor, I mean no harm. Itбпs just that this Lin Batian is a troublemaker. They have caused chaos in Qing State and were just fighting on the border. Now, even my Shenmu Sect is filled with fear, afraid of being affectedбн"

    Shenmu Sect Ancestor felt helpless. The battle of the Tao Achieving caused quite amotion. Even they were rmed. Is Shenmu Sect really going to confront Qing State by sheltering Lin Batian? Shenmu Sect cannot win.

    "You cowards! When Green Emperor rose to power, how much trouble did they cause? And how many people followed Green Emperor? Donбпt you understand building good karma?"

    "Ancestor, Lin Batian is not Green Emperor. He doesnбпt have that ability."

    "Thatбпs true. Green Emperor defeated the demons at his age."

    "Then, Ancestorбн"

    "Chase him away."

    "Then I will go ask him to leave."

    The cultivator who achieved Tao in the Shenmu Sect said. Lin Batian and Shenmu Ancestor have a past, but not with our Shenmu Sect. Moreover, that bit of friendship isnбпt worth risking everything for the Shenmu Sect.

    "Forget it, Iбпll go, you go back."

    Shenmu Ancestor waved his hand, and the Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator, feeling helpless, had no choice but to leave.

    "Did you hear that? I told you to leave."

    As soon as the Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator left, Lin Batianбпs figure appeared, Shenmu Ancestor said.

    "Ah, what a pity. I was actually thinking of introducing you to an acquaintance. Both of you are ancient monsters who have lived for hundreds of thousands of years. You should have a lot to talk about."

    Lin Batianughed and said. Hehe, a transparent humanoid figure appeared above his head, it was none other than Formation Spirit Li Yuncheng.

    "I donбпt know him well, but I knew his ancestors well, unfortunately his ancestors have passed away."

    "Young Li Yuncheng has met the old ancestor."

    Li Yuncheng nced at Lin Batian in disbelief, then respectfully bowed to the Shenmu Ancestor. The Shenmu Ancestor was right, Li Yunchengбпs ancestors were indeed acquainted with the Shenmu Ancestor. He used to visit the Shenmu Ancestor when he was younger.

    "Among the human race, youбпre the only one who can live to such an age."

    "For now, I only know of one person, and that is me."

    "Being a Formation Spirit is boring, spending your whole life trapped in one ce, and now being schemed against by someone."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Li Yuncheng thought it would be best if he stayed quiet. The old fellow really didnбпt know how to chat, always prying into peopleбпs personal matters.

    "As a Formation Spirit, do you still have consciousness? Do you still think about women? I remember your Li n was quite powerful, known for being prolific."

    "бдбдбдбдбдбд"

    "Itбпs been so long since I spoke, I donбпt know if you can understand me. I could go without talking for ten thousand years."

    "бдбдбдбдбдбд"

    "Oh, no. Itбпs hopeless, this child."

    "Haha, Shenmu Ancestor, how about I ask Li Yuncheng to stay with you while I check on the footage?"

    "Go ahead, but donбпt wander around. I already told someone that I need to get you out."

    Shenmu Ancestor nodded. He suddenly found Li Yuncheng quite amusing. It would be interesting to y with this stubborn type who likes to dig their heels in.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    When the disciples of Shenmu Sect started to appear in Shenmu City, and the defense level was raised, even activating the formation, Lin Jiang realized that Lin Batian had already taken action.

    He wanted to go back and join the battle, but Lin Dongyan stopped him because Lin Dongyan gave him Lin Batianбпstestmand, telling him not to go back. He had another task.

    "You guys really arenбпt worried at all."

    Lin Jiang said to Lin Dongyan, these guys really arenбпt worried, they eat and sleep well here.

    "Worrying is useless, itбпs better to practice more, make more money, or marry more wives and have more children."

    "Now I understand what you want me to do. You have set your sights on my business again, havenбпt you?"

    "Uncle, donбпt say that. How could the Lin family plot to seize their own peopleбпs industry? What belongs to Uncle will always belong to Uncle."

    "Fine, donбпte begging to me then."

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes. When Lin Batian left him behind, Lin Jiang realized that his current role was more valuable than going to battle. So there was only one thing left, which was his current business.

    Lin Dongyan didnбпt say anything about this. He only took care of his own affairs. His current task was to thoroughly understand all the alchemy notes left by Gu Pingbo. As for other things, there would naturally be someone responsible.

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 Chapter 267:

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    Shenmu City, in the central region

    Lin Die, wearing a ck robe, entered Fengyun Trading Company. She didnбпt stand out much because many people dressed like that. Most people wouldnбпt bother someone who had the aura of someone at the Nascent Soul stage.

    Soon, Lin Die arrived at the back yard of the tradingpany. Fengyun Trading Company had been in operation for decades, and its scale had expanded. There were many buildings surrounding the main building, all belonging to thepany.

    Lin Jiang received a message and came to see Lin Die. Lin Die didnбпt say a word, but she took out a pile of storage bags, over a hundred of them, and some of them were stained with blood.

    "I knew it. You didnбпt take me along on the mission so that I would clean up afterwards."

    "Everyone has their own role. Having an extra person at the golden core stage doesnбпt make much of a difference in this mission, but your business in Shenmu City is of great significance."

    "Understood."

    "Donбпt you understand? The Lin family has actually be impoverished a long time ago. Otherwise, they wouldnбпt have agreed to Lin Cunjian and the others seeking their own way of survival and venturing into the Wilderness.""So, all of the Lin familyбпs expenses for the next period of time will be covered here?"

    "More or less, everything here was plundered in this operation. Iбпll allow you to take a tenth of it."

    "How much is a tenth?"

    "It will be enough to satisfy your hunger."

    Lin Die said that in this operation, they seized three mines, over ten towns from Qing State, as well as enemy storage bags containing various valuables. The specific worth cannot be quantified.

    Among the hundreds of storage bags in front of them, they had already been briefly sorted. Items like elixirs and weapons were directly usable, so they were already taken.

    "Okay, Iбпll arrange it with someone."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then gathered his reliablepanions, appraisers, and others who had been with him for many years.

    They moved the storage bags to the warehouse, set up formations, and then opened each storage bag one by one. After opening over a dozen of them, the warehouse was filled with all kinds of items.

    "Everyone, take the Heart Demon Oath, this is a top secret matter. Afterward, each person will be rewarded with three monthsбп sry as a bonus. For the next six months, all three meals will be provided by thepany, and there will be unlimited supply of spiritual wine and tea."

    "Thank you, boss."

    The subordinates were overjoyed. They didnбпt care where these things came from, they only knew that they were about to make some extra money. They were instantly motivated.

    Afterwards, Lin Jiang also called for the masters of Pill, Talisman, Item, and Formation from thepany. These people were all from the Lin family, so they were reliable.

    "I wonбпt waste time with useless words. You all know the situation. We are currently sorting out the supplies in the warehouse. Iбпve seen it, itбпs veryplicated and thereбпs a huge quantity. If we act recklessly, it will not only affect the market, but alsopromise our identity. So, we need to consume the majority of it ourselves."

    "Uncle, can we really consume it all?"

    "Yes, even if you canбпt consume it all, you must try. In any case, you all need to start working overtime, donбпt think about resting."

    "Yes, uncle."

    "Get ready to gather people for work, there will be even more rewards afterward. We wonбпt mistreat you."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The next things to do were all professional stuff, he didnбпt need to say much. For example, those weapons should be cleaned, polished, and reced with new ones if they had marks on them. They could even be melted down and turned into materials.

    As for those minerals and such, they were just for personal use. Medicine pills were the simplest, they could be made and sold. If they couldnбпt be sold, they could be used by themselves.

    For things like robes that were difficult to handle and hard to hide, Lin Jiang had to find a way to deal with them on the ck market.

    Two dayster, Lin Die approached Lin Jiang again and said. You may not have enough time to handle this, but I urgently need money.

    "Why so urgent?"

    "Itбпs not just our Lin family, but also the remnants of the four major sects are here. We suffered losses in this battle, and there need to be rewards for achievements andpensation for injuries and deaths. We need money for our own losses as well иC to repair damaged tools and replenish consumed spiritual talismans."

    "Thatбпs true."

    "I need your help with this. If I make arge-scale purchase, it will surely attract attention. Thatбпs why your business is important."

    "You can use the channels of your business, but you have to provide the money, and I want to bnce the ounts."

    "I understand what you mean. You need to pay all the expenses yourself. After three days, you need to start giving me money one by one, at most within a month, you need to give me all of it."

    "I canбпt pay it all in a month. Iбпve checked, it might take even three years to finish. In this case, I have to pay in advance, I donбпt have enough money."

    Lin Jiang said that he didnбпt have much money left. The biggest ie he had in these years was from Small Shadiao hunting demons in the Wilderness, just a few million spirit stones, which was far from Lin Dieбпs requirement.

    "You find a way."

    "No way."

    Lin Jiang said that in the cultivation world, there are no banks or money lenders. He doesnбпt even have a ce to borrow money.

    "Is there really no way at all?"

    "Well, there is a way, but it will cost a lot of money."

    "It doesnбпt matter."

    "Someone said, боI also have a share.бп"

    Lin Jiang said. I am now poor, and thatбпs desperate for money, okay?

    "I willpensate you extra. The secret techniques of Tiandao Gate, Taixu Sect, Infinite Pce, and Tiandao Pavilion were all emptied by my dad. I will give you a share."

    Lin Die said. My dad, Lin Batian, is definitely not a kind person. He has already taken control of the remaining members of the four major sects and their secret techniques. He is very cunning.

    "Okay, since you say so, I will give it a try. But you need to help me with something."

    "What do you say?"

    "I will team up with the medium-sized trading firms in the city to take in this batch of goods. We have been doing it this way for years, where everyone is cunning. In the past, we didnбпt take in much, so we all got along. But this batch of goods is too much. Once I make a move, relying solely on Small Shadiao wonбпt be enough. It might even attract gangs of thieves. Can you help me hold them off?"

    Lin Jiang said. Being too kind-hearted wonбпt help in business. When he went to Qinghuan Tower and chatted with those merchants, it wasnбпt just idle talk. In fact, he had already negotiated numerous deals.

    These legitimate trading firms also deal with some illicit activities, but not much. In the past, it was minor incidents. But this time, Lin Die brought something worth billions of spirit stones. Just the Ink Essence ore in those storage bags is of extraordinary value. It is bound to attract covetousness. Small Shadiao, as a fourth-tier cultivator, cannot handle them alone.

    "This is a small matter, daring to have thoughts of harming us, they donбпt know that they will die."

    Lin Die nodded, if her reputation wasnбпt enough, she could mention Lin Batian, who is famous now, and not many people in the cultivation world want to provoke him.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Brother Xiao, why havenбпt you been going to Qinghuan Tower recently? Fairy Qingqing says she misses Brother Xiao a lot."

    Several owners of Shenmu City shops came to invite Lin Jiang for tea a few dayster, and one person teasingly said.

    "Brother Zhang, you donбпt know this, but Brother Xiao has struck it rich. How could he still look at Fairy Qingqing? He must be aiming for a top beauty now."

    "Ahahaha, I heard about this. Brother Xiao kept it a secret from us, we all thought he was nobody, but who would have known he was a big shot."

    "What big shot? This is calledбн"

    The group quickly changed the topic to the recent merchandise from Fengyun Trading Company. Lin Jiang had Lin Dongyan refine several batches of 5th rank top-grade elixirs and produced some excellent treasures, and these keen-nosed fellows came voluntarily.

    In Shenmu City, the strength of the shops is clearly divided. If a shop can produce items of a level six or higher, it is arge shop. Of course, it has to be consistent and stable, asionally having one or two exceptions.

    If a shop can consistently produce items of level four or five, it is considered average. Anything lower than that is not considered good enough. Lin Jiangбпs Fengyun Trading Company, for example, can consistently produce level four items. Their mainstream products are level three, which puts them in the lower end of the group.

    But now, when they started continuously producing items of level five and above, they immediately realized it. They want toe and explore this new opportunity, to see if they can make a fortune. Thatбпs what being a boss is all about.

    "All of you have been friends of mine for many years. I wonбпt beat around the bush. Iбпll just be straightforward. This time, I really found a good opportunity and secured a batch of goods."

    "Brother Xiao, my dear brother, donбпt forget about me when you be wealthy."

    "Brother Xiao, as you said, if you be rich, donбпt forget your friends."

    "Brother Xiaoбн"

    "Hold on, hold on, donбпt make so much noise. Donбпt you know me by now? Iбпve always treated you all like my own brothers. This batch of goods is big, I canбпt handle it alone. If you have a good appetite, letбпs all eat together."

    "Brother Xiao, look at my teeth. I can even bite this table!"

    "Brother Xiao, would you like me to show you how I bite into the special iron?"

    As soon as they heard this, their eyes lit up. As long as there was money to be made, they werenбпt afraid of anything. They werenбпt afraid of death like cultivators.

    Lin Jiang was very satisfied with their performance. This was the appearance of a standard dishonest merchant. They had even dared to get involved in the battle between the Shenmu Sect and the Spiritual Moon Sect. It was only natural that they could handle this matter.

    Lin Jiang took out a piece of Ink Essence from his bag and ced it on the table. The expressions on the faces of the others changed instantly. Someone said. Brother Xiao, is this really Ink Essence?

    "No, itбпs a stone."

    "Hehe, Brother Xiao, donбпt joke around. Judging by its texture, it seems toe from Qing State. Brother Xiaoбн"

    "Myst name is Xiao."

    "I can eat 500 kilograms."

    "You can leave, no need to apany me. With such poor teeth, you really think you can bite into this special iron?"

    "Brother Xiao, how many do you have?"

    The man clenched his teeth. In fact, their strength was not very strong. They only made a few million spirit stones in a year, with a profit of around several hundred thousand. If it was too much, they would really suffer losses.

    "Weбпve been closed for three years, and now that weбпre finally open, Iбпve alreadyid the groundwork. It all depends on how daring you are. If you canбпt handle it, then Iбпll have to find someone else."

    "Brother Xiao, is everything really ready? No problem?"

    "Ahem"

    Lin Jiang coughed, and immediately the others felt a strong aura. At the very least, they were at the Nascent Soul stage, and there might even be some unknown power. With this, everyone looked at Lin Jiang with different eyes.

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 Chapter 268:

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    In the central region, the Shenmu Sect

    The Shenmu Sect felt the pressure from the Qing State. Although they had unpleasant encounters before, both sides simply ignored each other without hostility.

    This time, the four big families joined forces with the Spiritual Moon Sect to put pressure on the Shenmu Sect. The Shenmu Sect immediately felt the pressure and was discussing countermeasures.

    "Ancestor, Martial Uncle Duanyu wants to see you."

    "Please let him in."

    The two Tao Achieving exchanged a nce and quickly received Duanmu Yue. Duanmu Yue was a Void Achieving from the Shenmu Sect and also one of the high-ranking members.

    "Duanmu Yue greets the two ancestors."

    "Duanmu Yue,ingte at night, what urgent matter do you have?""Reporting to Martial Uncle, Duanmu Yue requests Martial Uncle to immediately expel Lin Batian and all members of the Lin family."

    "What happened?"

    "Iбн"

    "Whatбпs the matter, you can speak up, there are no outsiders here."

    "Yes, I received news that Xiao Lingyue, a traitor from the Spiritual Moon Sect, has followed Lin Batian and be his woman."

    "What? I canбпt believe such a thing."

    Even the powerful cultivators from the Shenmu Sect were shocked. Their first reaction was that it couldnбпt be true. Lin Batian relied on hiding in the Shenmu Sect to save his life, how dare he take in Xiao Lingyue? Doesnбпt he know that Xiao Lingyue has insulted the reputation of the Shenmu Sect?

    But if you think about it carefully, Duanmu Yue has no reason to lie. Duanmu Yue is Duanmu Lingбп father and Xiao Lingyue was supposed to be his daughter-inw. By openly revealing this, the most embarrassing situation falls on the Duanmu family.

    "Martial Uncle, I dare not lie. This Lin Batian is truly going too far. He is now relying on the protection of our Shenmu Ancestor, and yet he dares to humiliate my Duanmu family. Itбпs as if heбпs treating our Shenmu Sect like fools. I beg Martial Uncle to take action."

    "Duanmu Yue, let me ask you, when you formed an alliance with the Spiritual Moon Sect before, were there any secrets we didnбпt know about? Please exin it in detail."

    "Martial Uncle, there is something. Xiao Lingyue has a Pure Yin Body, and my son Duanmu Ling practices the Fierce Yuan Divine Art, which is extremely Yang. If the twobine, with the bnce of Yin and Yang, both can benefit."

    "Pure Yin Body, Duanmu Ling, youбпre not considering using someone as a furnace, are you?"

    "Definitely not, Martial Uncle. The agreement between me and the Spiritual Moon Sect clearly states that we only engage in simple cultivation together, without any intentions of using people as a means for cultivation."

    Duanmu Yue exined. They are being falsely used. They understand the principle of taking what is necessary and not wasting. If they used people as vessels for cultivation, it would only work once, but if they use legitimate cultivation techniques, it can be beneficial for both parties in the long run.

    When encountering a Pure Yin Body, only the desperate would forcefully take or deceive to obtain it, because there is only one chance. If they donбпt seize it, it might be gone forever.

    "Senior brother, what do you think?"

    "Lin Batianбпs actions indeed have been too domineering. He seeks our help from the Shenmu Sect and yet behaves in such a disrespectful manner. No one can pretend to be ignorant about it."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from the Shenmu Sect said. This is a disgraceful situation. Just imagine what others may think. A person under our protection has taken away your daughter-inw. What kind of reputation does that leave the Shenmu Sect? No one can tolerate this.

    "Shenmu Ancestor previously mentioned getting rid of Lin Batian, but I saw him still here."

    "I saw it too. The Ancestor has a peculiar personality. We might not be able to persuade him."

    "Even if we canбпt persuade him, we still have to try. We canбпt simply let the Ancestorбпs personality dictate everything. After all, he is not from our human race and doesnбпt understand our customs."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect said. Shenmu Ancestor can be considered a demon race, and they donбпt follow the customs of the human race nor understand shame. If you try to advise them nicely, Shenmu Ancestor will definitely refuse.

    "Iбпll find a way, but we must not offend Shenmu Ancestor. The Ancestor is the greatest foundation of Shenmu Sect."

    "Martial Uncle, donбпt spare those people from the Lin family either. Expel them all."

    "Letбпs forget about the people from the Lin family."

    "Martial Uncle, why?"

    "Just do as I say. Give them a small punishment as a warning, but donбпt go too far."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect said that they donбпt want to make Lin Batian angry, but itбпs best to leave an enemy for the Qing State so that they can weaken their power.

    The four major families used to be incredibly powerful and arrogant, dominating the world. But now, the cultivation world doesnбпt allow them to be so outstanding. Itбпs good to give them some trouble. It would be even better if we could uncover Green Emperorбпs secrets during the fight.

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "You may go now, the sect will give you an exnation for this matter."

    "Thank you, Martial Uncle. I will take my leave."

    "Go ahead."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect waved his hand, and Duanmu Yue quickly departed.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Uncle, things are not going well. Today, all the people who went to deliver gifts failed. They didnбпt even let them in the door."

    In Shenmu City, a young member of the Lin family looked panicked as he spoke to Lin Jiang.

    Where there are people, there is a Jianghu [Martial arts world]. Where there is power, there is also corruption. Shenmu City is no exception. Every shop in the city requires gifts to be given.

    However, Shenmu City is quite strict in this regard. Once they receive the money, they will do the job for you. If they canбпt get it done, they might even return the money to you. So, for merchants, they are not afraid of paying, they are afraid of not getting the job done after paying.

    The Fengyun Trading Company has been in Shenmu City for many years, naturally, it is unavoidable to send money out almost every month, and there has never been a problem in decades.

    "Not collecting money, do you know the reason?"

    "I still donбпt know for now."

    "Has anything happened inside thepany?"

    "Not at the moment."

    "Go and close the door, and say that thepany needs to be renovated."

    "Ah, Uncle, by closing the door, we will lose quite a bit of money."

    "Small money doesnбпt matter, itбпs only a big deal if something goes wrong. Listen to me, Iбпm right."

    Lin Jiang said, he is currently dealing with the spoils of the Lin family, normal business doesnбпt make much money, but itбпs only when those people stop collecting money that he feels a crisis.

    ording to his understanding of Shenmu City, even if they canбпt get things done, they will tell you why it canбпt be done. Like this kind of ce that you canбпt even enter, he has never seen it before.

    Lin Jiang quickly went to ask his friends, but there was no news for a while.

    "I heard that you closed your shop, what happened?"

    When Lin Jiang returned to the store, Lin Die quickly came to ask. She is now very concerned about Lin Jiangбпs business, after all, the goods belong to her.

    "Something happened, the people from Shenmu Sect are no longer epting my money."

    "epting money?"

    "Of course, havenбпt you ever paid in Anhua City before?"

    "I havenбпt paid."

    "Thatбпs normal, but someone from the Lin family must have epted it."

    Lin Jiang said that he didnбпt believe the Lin family was innocent, it was impossible, people are not that pure-hearted.

    "Maybe, and then?"

    "The situation is messy, think about it, who wouldnбпt ept money? If they dare not take money, it means they are under unbearable pressure. Where do you think the pressurees from?"

    "Shenmu Sect."

    "Yes, the higher-ups of Shenmu Sect are trying to get us. What do you think might have happened?"

    "If nothing unexpected happens, itбпs probably about Xiao Lingyue and my fatherбпs secret."

    "I guess so too."

    Lin Jiang sighed, he had been trouble-free in Shenmu City for decades, and now there was only this one thing happening.

    "A femme fatale."

    "No matter how much we scold, itбпs no use. Now we need to solve the problem."

    "If we canбпt solve it, what will be the consequences?"

    If the shop closes and the current situation is affected, those shops that always act friendly with me will be the first ones to turn against me. I wonder how much of our belongings they will take, it all depends on their conscience.

    But donбпt expect them to have much conscience, if this thing is valuable, theyбпll sell it by weight.

    "This is so serious."

    "This is just the beginning. We still have to see how Shenmu Sect will deal with us. If we can avoid financial loss, then tomorrow onwards itбпll just be a series of small problems. But if they want to destroy us, the day after tomorrow will bring a big disaster."

    Lin Jiang said. This is how it is when we make a living on someone elseбпs turf. Itбпs an unavoidable situation. What makes Lin Jiang angry is Lin Batian. Why bother Xiao Lingyue when thereбпs nothing going on? Doesnбпt he know who she is?

    "How will you handle it?"

    "If we canбпt survive in Shenmu City, itбпs better to leave early and find peace elsewhere. Tonight, Iбпll have someone pack up our things and prepare to leave."

    "You will suffer a great loss."

    "Itбпs better than losing your life. Donбпt hold on to false hope, just give up."

    Lin Jiang said, even though he always imed he cared more about money than his life, when it came down to choosing between money and life, he would definitely prioritize his own survival.

    Now Lin Jiang wonбпt wait for the Shenmu Sect to show him any mercy. As soon as he sees any signs of trouble, he would rather endure losses and run away.

    Lin Die stopped talking, but she was clearly very angry. Earlier, Lin Ying was so angry that she ran away from home and only came back for this mission. She has always been thinking about the bigger picture, but now she feels like she canбпt bear it anymore.

    "Iбпll inconvenience you for now. You can do whatever you want, the Lin family wonбпt mistreat you."

    "Where did Third Auntie go?"

    "Someone has to take responsibility, and a father should have the consciousness of being a father."

    Lin Die said calmly, her father must give an exnation for this matter, otherwise she wonбпt agree.

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 Chapter 269:

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    Zhongzhou, the Shenmu Sect

    When the Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving Ancestor came to find the Shenmu Ancestor again, Lin Batian knew he had to leave. He felt a bit guilty, after all, he had stolen someone elseбпs daughter-inw from the Shenmu Sect. It was like pping someoneбпs face.

    Having pped someoneбпs face and seeking refuge on someone elseбпs territory, even Lin Batian felt a little embarrassed.

    "Elders, thereбпs no need to say more. I know what youбпre going to say. I will leave."

    "Taoist Friend Lin, matters of mutual affection should not be discussed much, but your actions have indeed caused great embarrassment to our Shenmu Sect. We have be aughingstock in the cultivation world."

    "So I will leave. I will never bother you again in the future."

    "Very well, you may leave. We will not trouble you anymore."

    The Shenmu Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator said, if it were an ordinary person, there would be no way to simply leave like this. They would definitely face severe consequences. But he truly didnбпt want to get involved in Lin Batian and the Qing Stateбпs affairs, as it would be too troublesome."Shenmu Ancestor, I wille back to see youter."

    "Donбпte empty-handed, bring something nice."

    "Haha, Iбпll leave you apanion."

    "Okay, you can go now."

    Lin Batianughed loudly and activated the Spatiotemporal Mirror, disappearing from sight.

    "The Spatiotemporal Mirror of the Green Emperor is truly powerful."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Shenmu Sect couldnбпt help but sigh. Itбпs difficult to find such amazing treasures in the cultivation world nowadays. Theyбпre all gone, which is quite enviable.

    "If you wish, you can also leave."

    "Ancestor, Iбн"

    "Go away, donбпt bother me. I want to go y with little Chengzi."

    Shenmu Ancestor rolled his eyes and left Lin Batian with Li Yuncheng. This little guy is interesting. He can have a conversation. In the cultivation world these days, everyone is so young that they canбпt connect unless they are over a hundred thousand years old. Thereбпs a generation gap, you know.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Lin Chaosheng, where are your Third Ancestor and Tenth Ancestor?"

    Lin Batian left Shenmu Sect and arrived at the new residence of the Lin family. The Lin family is very smart in finding new ces to settle down. They n ahead for many years, so they are rarely found quickly. It takes them a long time to be exposed.

    Lin Batian returned here and, as usual, Lin Die would be waiting for him, but this time she wasnбпt there.

    "Master, Tenth Ancestor hasnбпte back for many years. Third Ancestor came back a few days ago, but didnбпt see the master and left again."

    "Where did they go?"

    "I donбпt know, but it seems Third Ancestor is very angry."

    "Angry, why is she angry?"

    "I donбпt know."

    "Send her a message, ask her toe back immediately."

    Lin Batian didnбпt understand, but he didnбпt care either, so he walked straight ahead.

    Lin Batian saw Xiao Lingyue in the courtyard. Xiao Lingyue had been secluded for several years, breaking through the Soul Changing in the Ancient Phoenix Secret Realm and escaping from the Spiritual Moon Sect. Thatбпs why she didnбпt know any techniques after Soul Changing.

    But since Lin Batian appeared on the list, she didnбпt have to worry anymore. Lin Batian had many valuable things, and he taught her advanced techniques that were even better than those of the Spiritual Moon Sect. Xiao Lingyue even wanted to change her current techniques because Lin Batian had something even more advanced.

    "Lin Lang, youбпre back!"

    "Iбпm back, and this time, I wonбпt leave."

    "Really?"

    "More real than anything, Yueбпer is practicing again."

    "If you have nothing to do, why not practice?"

    "Practicing is great. Come, letбпs practice together."

    "No, no, no. Itбпs daytime."

    "Itбпs okay, Iбпll go set up the restriction. It will be dark soon."

    Lin Batian felt a bit thirsty. Now, he is really enjoying it. Since he discovered the benefits of having a Pure Yin Body, he doesnбпt quite like the slow progress of cultivation anymore. Itбпs not as fast as this.

    Four hourster, Lin Batian and Xiao Lingyue were both meditating to refine the spiritual power within their bodies. Their cultivation method was extremely powerful. When their spiritual power circted in each otherбпs bodies, it would increase by one point. In four hours, they achieved more than what normal cultivation would take half a month to achieve.

    This wasnбпt their first time, and that time, Lin Batianбпs cultivation soared.

    When Lin Batian finished refining his spiritual power and stood up to leave, Lin Die had already returned. Seeing Lin Batianбпs appearance, her face instantly turned unpleasant.

    "Ahem, Iбпm going to freshen up."

    Lin Batian felt a little embarrassed and quickly slipped away, only returning after washing up.

    "Brother San, how are things at home arranged?"

    "I donбпt know."

    "How could you not know? Werenбпt you the one arranging everything?"

    "Since we have a stepmother now, letбпs leave everything to her in the future."

    "What are you talking about, Lin Die? Whatбпs gotten into you?"

    "Iбпm tired, I donбпt want to deal with anything anymore. Iбпm nning to find a ce to spend the rest of my days."

    "Nonsense, Brother San! Whoever made you upset, Iбпll take care of them!"

    "Besides you, who else can make me angry?"

    "Iбн"

    Lin Batian was shocked. When did he offend his beloved daughter? He couldnбпt possibly leave her, right?

    "Brother Three, uh, canбпt Dad immediately change if you tell him where he went wrong?"

    "Youбпre not wrong. You are the head of the family. How could you be wrong?"

    "Oh, Brother Three, Dad really made a mistake. Please tell Dad where he went wrong, he will definitely change."

    "Lin Ying has been away from home for so many years. Arenбпt you worried at all?"

    "I am worried, I have apologized, I have tried to convince her, but nothing worked."

    "Then letбпs drive away that woman."

    "What nonsense is this? Is your father the type of person who doesnбпt recognize others when heбпs wearing pants? As long as Xiao Lingyue hasnбпt done anything wrong to me, or to the Lin family, I wonбпt kick her out."

    "Choose between the daughter and the woman."

    Lin Dieбпs hands were thrown up in the air. She was very angry right now because that woman had caused a lot of trouble for the Lin family. Thepany in Shenmu City was doing well, and they had settled so many children from the Lin family, but now it was ruined, and she was still protecting that woman.

    "Lin Die, these are two separate matters. Donбпt confuse them."

    "Suit yourself, I donбпt want to do it anymore. You can take your time seeking revenge."

    "Lin Die, donбпt go too far."

    Lin Batian suddenly got furious, speaking through gritted teeth. Lin Die had never spoken to him like this before.

    "Am I going too far? How am I going too far?"

    "Lin Die, youбпre deliberately looking for trouble, arenбпt you?"

    I nitpick all the time, and you have the nerve to use me of nitpicking. Over the past few hundred years, how many family matters have you taken care of? Isnбпt it all me taking care of them?

    For the past few decades, youбпve been hiding in the Shenmu Sect. How much do you know about whatбпs happening at home? Do you know how many n members died in the attack on the Qing State?

    Do you know how many n members are waiting for rewards and assistance now? Without real benefits to sustain their morale, how many still consider you their n leader?

    Do you think itбпs enough that youбпre their ancestor? Arenбпt there already people in the cultivation world who have abandoned their ancestors? Tell me.

    Do you even know how much effort Lin Wu put into Shenmu City? How many Lin family children he settled there? Just because of that woman, the business canбпt operate anymore. Tell me, what should we do next? How can we rece that ie? How can we provide for those hundreds of people and help them find a way to make a living and earn resources? Come on, say something!

    Lin Die also grew angry and shouted at Lin Batian. She has been taking care of the Lin family for all these years. She has to take care of the basic needs of thousands of people, and she has to find ways for their future. Isnбпt she tired? And Lin Batian, heбпs just holding her back. Shouldnбпt she be angry?

    Lin Batian was left speechless by the questions. For a moment, he couldnбпt even find the right words. Over the years, he had indeed bex andcked concern for the family.

    "Why arenбпt you saying anything? Then Iбпll leave."

    "Third brother, Iбн"

    "Hmph."

    Lin Die snorted and walked away. Lin Batian reached out his hand but didnбпt know how tofort her. If she was his wife, he could try to coax her, but his daughterбн well, he didnбпt have experience in that area.

    "Lin Lang" (a term of endearment in Chinese, simr to "darling" or "my love")

    At this moment, Xiao Lingyue also came out. She heard the argument clearly.

    "Yueбпer, why did youe out?"

    "Lin Lang, I heard everything. Iбпm sorry. I made things difficult for you. I will leave now. I donбпt want to cause a rift between you and your daughter."

    "Stop talking. This has nothing to do with you."

    "How can it have nothing to do with me? Itбпs because of meбн"

    "Yueбпer, remember, I never care about your issues with the Shenmu Sect. The mistake is not yours. As for the Yu family matter, itбпs my failure to handle it properly. But donбпt worry, as long as Iбпm here, no one can hurt you or make you suffer."

    Lin Batian said seriously to Xiao Lingyue, he was very angry now and felt that his authority as the head of the family had been greatly challenged. It seemed like he had to discipline the familyбпs traditions and rules, otherwise he couldnбпt remain as the head.

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 Chapter 270:

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    Lin familyбпs new residence.

    Before, Lin Batian was the figurehead while Lin Die and Lin Die were in charge of the Lin familyбпs affairs. After all, they were the only second generation of the Lin family.

    However, they also sought help from many people. Lin Chaosheng, Lin Chaoyun, Lin Chengzhi, and other members of the fourth and fifth generation of the family had emerged as young talents.

    Lin Die was upset and refused to work. Lin Batian had no choice but to handle it himself. He gathered Lin Chaosheng and others to discuss important matters concerning the Lin family.

    "Head of the family, you came just in time. We need to find a solution quickly. Something big is about to happen."

    "What happened?"

    "Weбпre out of money. The younger generation in the family havenбпt received their allowances for this month yet."

    "Master, I need money too. In the battle of Qing State, seventeen members of our Lin family died and eighty-two were injured. We havenбпt received anypensation yet. The remaining participants in the war also need to receive a reward.""Master, it would be best if you took charge. Currently, our Lin family has nine members with aplete golden core. The oldest is already three hundred and sixty years old, and the youngest is over two hundred years old. We canбпt wait any longer; we need to find infant treasures for them."

    "Masterбн"

    "Wait, youбпre doing this on purpose, right?"

    Lin Batian got angry again. Every time he appeared, it was always about money. If this wasnбпt intentional, then what is it?

    "Why would you say that, Master? These are basic necessities for the functioning of the n. We havenбпt taken anything for personal use."

    "Then tell me, what else is left in the nбпs treasury?"

    "Thereбпs nothing left. We canбпt even find ten thousand spirit stones. The limited resources we had were already distributed for the attack on Qing State."

    "The focus of the battle with Qing State was on plundering. What about the spoils of war?"

    "Lin Wuбпs uncle sold them in Shenmu City and only got back less than 30% of the resources. These all belong to the remaining members of the four major sects. They are urging us, so we gave them priority."

    "Then let Lin Wu continue selling."

    "No, Lin Wuбпs shop has closed."

    "Why?"

    "Shenmu Sect is causing trouble, if we donбпt close the shop, they will take everything."

    Lin Chaosheng said, without exining why theyбпre causing trouble. Itбпs obvious like lice on a monkбпs head.

    "Hmph, can a living person be choked to death by urine? Bring out the ount books, see how much is missing, I will make up for it."

    "All of it?"

    "All of it."

    Lin Batian waved his hand, the family treasure was out of money, but his personal savings still had some money. As a Void Achieving cultivator, itбпs not too much to have a good fortune.

    "Okay, family master, please wait a moment."

    The group of people nced at each other, immediately took out the ount book, busied themselves and then handed it to Lin Batian for review.

    Lin Batian looked at it nonchntly, but his face suddenly became stiff.

    "Is itcking so much?"

    "Yes, exactly this much."

    "This doesnбпt even include the expenses for the breakthrough to the Nascent Soul stage. I can let it go for now, but someone like Lin Dongyan, with his excellent alchemy talent, is being limited by his cultivation level. Itбпs about time for him to break through."

    "There are also the Third Ancestor and Tenth Ancestor. They have been at the Nascent Soul stage for many years, so we need to find a way for them to break through to the Soul Changing stage and not dy our two great ancestors."

    The group of people kept talking, leaving Lin Batian silent. The Lin family had reached the end of their resources, and even his personal savings couldnбпt withstand it anymore.

    Now, after almost a hundred years of reproduction, the poption of the Lin family has returned to over two thousand people. Just their yearly expenses for food, drink, bodily functions, and sries amount to tens of millions of spirit stones.

    If someone wants to break through the Building Foundation and Golden Core, it requires extra expenses. In addition to that, the Lin family also maintains a persistent attack on the Qing State, and fighting is expensive.

    There are also residual forces supporting the Four Great Sects, supporting the Dark Night Assassins. The expenses are not small, and that doesnбпt even include the costs of breakthroughs for the Nascent Soul and Soul Changing.

    Considering the various daily expenses, the Lin family needs at least six to seven billion spirit stones each year just to meet their needs. And the key issue is that the Lin family has lost a majority of their sources of wealth.

    Previously, the Lin family upied Anhua City and received arge amount of tributes and offerings from dependent territories, enjoying afortable life. But since leaving the Yun State, the Lin family has moved multiple times. Without a stable source of ie, the Lin family can only scrape by, relying on what little they have and making do with various means.

    "Is there anything else in the house that can be sold?"

    "Thereбпs nothing left, weбпve sold everything that can be sold. If we sell more, it can only be those precious treasures. Those were all meant for our own family, and collecting them was extremely difficult."

    Lin Chaosheng said, the Lin family only kept a batch of the most precious treasures, all for use by those at the Nascent Soul stage and above. These treasures were umted over hundreds of years in the Yun State, and they could only be obtained through fortuitous opportunities. They couldnбпt be bought under normal circumstances. If they were sold to cover daily expenses, it would be such a waste.

    "I didnбпt expect the Lin family to face such difficulties all these years."

    "Master, may I speak words that should not be spoken? The biggest expense for our family is going to war with the Qing State. If we can have a few years of peace, with our abilities, we can quickly restore prosperity to the Lin family."

    "We donбпt need to mention this matter again."

    "Yes, Master."

    "I will find a solution to this matter. I have some money here. You take it for emergencies. I will write three urgent letters and you can send them to the three sects in the Yun State, asking them for an emergency loan."

    "The sects might not lend the money."

    "Letбпs ask first, and if they donбпt lend, we can sell a batch of secret techniques and skills from the four major sects to them."

    "No, we have already given away the secrets of the four major sects. They were the reward for attacking the Qing State this time."

    "Iбн"

    Lin Batian became anxious. Could it be that they have to sell the secret techniques of the Lin familyбпs main branch? No, this is not eptable. This just wonбпt do.

    "Never mind, never mind, you go ahead and handle the emergency first, and I will think of a solutionter."

    Lin Batian sighed, giving up the argument. Itбпs better to find a way to raise money. Money can solve ny-nine percent of difficulties in this world.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Shenmu City, Fengyun Trading Company

    The sudden closure of Fengyun Trading Company caught many people off guard, and they were truly stunned by Lin Jiangбпs move. Especially the Shenmu Sect, they had already prepared themselves and were ready to cause trouble for Fengyun Trading Company.

    When it came to causing trouble, they were quite experienced, and they had at least a hundred ways to make Fengyun Trading Companyбпs life miserable.

    But with Fengyun Trading Company gone, they felt like they were punching the air, unable to take any action.

    With pressure from above, they could only find small matters to trouble Lin Jiang. In response to these troubles, Lin Jiang remained calm. He apologized when necessary and paid a fair amount ofpensation. He ignored the big ones and stillpensated for the small ones. If they pushed him too far, he would tell them to run away overnight and disband.

    On the other hand, the business partners who coborated with Lin Jiang were difficult. Many of them had already received goods from Lin Jiang and should have paid for them. However, in response to Shenmu Sectбпs targeting of Lin Jiang, they started making excuses, trying to eat that money.

    Some people want to add insult to injury by buying the remaining goods from Lin Jiang at a very low price, directly copying his business.

    Lin Jiang, of course, wonбпt let them have their way. His goodse from the spoils of the Lin family, without spending any money on inventory. Itбпs not a normal business difficulty, but he keeps persevering.

    "Uncle, arenбпt you going to open the door?"

    "We have suffered huge losses иC rent, shop expenses, workersбп sries. These are daily expenses, you know."

    "Uncleбн"

    After closing for nearly half a month, the Lin familyбпs descendants couldnбпt bear it any longer. They were the operators of the business and knew where the costs were. Now they were losing thousands or even tens of thousands of dors every day. They felt heartbroken.

    "Keep calm. Why panic? Once we find a new ce, we can just move there."

    Lin Jiang said, with no sense of urgency. Once he received his payment, he would withdraw and go to another ce to do business. If things didnбпt work out, he would return to Yun State. He always had a way out.

    "Hey, uncle, Iбпm getting a bit anxious."

    "Donбпt worry, just eat and drink, you guys continue, Iбпll go first."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, heбпs not worried at all as the boss, you worker bees are the ones panicking.

    Lin Jiang went to get some food, brought it to Lin Die and said. Third Ancestor, they said you love to eat these, so I bought some for you, have some.

    "Not hungry, wonбпt eat."

    "Your dad made a mistake, do you need to punish yourself for his mistakes?"

    "Nonsense, not eating wonбпt make me starve, Iбпm just not in a good mood."

    "Actually, Third Auntie doesnбпt need to be angry. Xiao Lingyueбпs situation is already settled, canбпt be changed. And with Xiao Lingyueбпs Soul Changing cultivation, she wonбпt be able to bear children for the family head anymore, so no need to worry about other troubles. Instead, think of it this way, the family head found a talented person for the Lin family, this can be considered a good thing."

    "If you canбпt give advice, then donбпt."

    Lin Die rolled her eyes directly. Is he angry about this? If you canбпt give advice, then just shut up.

    "What Lin Wu said is actually very true."

    As soon as Lin Die finished speaking, a voice came from behind Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang didnбпt need to turn around to know that it was his fickle father.

    "Met the head of the household."

    "No need to be so formal, please have a seat."

    "Yes."

    "Little brother, are you still mad?"

    "Iбпm not angry."

    "Even though your eyebrows are furrowed, youбпre not angry? Donбпt be upset. It was our father who was in the wrong. He apologizes to you."

    "Sorry."

    "Father came this time to handle the situation. Since the family has financial problems, I will solve it."

    Lin Batian said. This matter can be easily resolved. What is the most profitable thing in the world? Itбпs not advanced technology or monopoly. In his opinion, itбпs violence. As long as you have power, you can get anything, including money.

    Lin Batian is not the kind of person whocks ambition just because he is poor. If he doesnбпt have money, he will find a way to earn it. In this world where the strong prey on the weak, itбпs not embarrassing to take from others, but being taken from is embarrassing.

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 Chapter 271:

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    Shenmu City

    Lin Batian handles things very decisively and directly. He took Lin Jiang with him and went straight to the door. If anyone took the goods and didnбпt want to pay, ask them if the Overlord Spear in his hand agrees or not.

    As for the rules in Shenmu City, Lin Batian fully showed those people what "punishment cannot reach Void Achieving" means. When those businesses saw that the Void Achieving of Shenmu Sect was not appearing, they all became honest. The cunning merchants turned into obedient andw-abiding merchants, willingly handing over spirit stones and other resources.

    "Now I canбпt stay in Shenmu City anymore."

    Lin Jiang sighed. Even though he had decided to leave, he had been running his business here for decades and still had a little bit of reluctance.

    "How much merchandise is left to sell?"

    "Seventy percent. We only managed to sell thirty percent before things went wrong."

    "Donбпt sell anymore. Letбпs find another ce.""Yes"

    Lin Jiang replied, he couldnбпt think of a way out, so he could only leave. Luckily, he had already had someone pack up his things, and as long as he received some severance pay, it would be fine.

    "Third Brother arranged for people to gradually evacuate. Although Shenmu Sect and Qing State are not enemies, we still canбпt be careless."

    "Yes, I understand."

    Although Lin Die was still angry, she wouldnбпt joke about the lives of her fellow tribe members. She wasnбпt as carefree as Lin Ying, if she got really mad, she would leave everyone behind.

    This is how they bully honest people, whoever is kind-hearted will suffer, and whoever is ruthless will be carefree. Lin Die was extremely cold to outsiders, but when it came to her own people, she was always gentle.

    Lin Die quickly got busy. There were many Lin family members in Shenmu City. Initially, there were sixty to seventy people, but as they started families and careers, the number grew to several hundred. Later, Lin Dongyan and his group came with another few hundred people, and the proportion of women and children was quite high. If they wanted to leave quietly, it wouldnбпt be easy.

    However, the Lin family had enough experience in moving and escaping for their lives. Lin Die had a n, and Lin Jiang was busy with his own matters.

    There were a group of workers here who had been with Lin Jiang for decades. Even though they were leaving, Lin Jiang couldnбпt just ignore everything. Severance pay needed to be distributed, and he had to write some rmendation letters or the like, so that they would have new things to do.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Master, where should we go next?"

    "Arenбпt you going back to the Five Elements Sect?"

    "No, Iбпm not going back. Itбпs not interesting."

    Lin Jiang said. Yun State isnбпt as interesting as the other states. The ce is too remote and the cultivation level is too low, except for the three major sects, the other sects canбпtpare.

    "Itбпs good to be adventurous, especially while young. Unlike me, I was busy with various things when I was young."

    Lin Batian nodded, he already recognized Lin Jiangбпs abilities. Although he didnбпt have high cultivation andbat strength, he was efficient in handling other matters.

    "So where should we go next?"

    "Letбпs go to North State. Itбпs difficult to establish ourselves anywhere else."

    "North State, a harsh and hauntednd."

    Lin Jiang eximed that he had heard a lot about North State when he was in Shenmu City.

    North State is located in the northern part of the cultivation world, covered mostly in snow and ice. It is extremely cold and scarcely inhabited by ordinary people due to harsh conditions. There are also not many cultivators there.

    North State is a gathering ce for many evil cultivators, ouws, and others who have fled from different ces and canбпt survive there anymore. It is also the weakest part of the major sectsбп power in the cultivation world.

    "The most powerful creatures in North State are probably the Human Demons. Years ago, the Green Emperor banished Human Demons to North State, and we donбпt know what happened to them since then."

    Lin Batian nodded and added that another special characteristic of North State is the presence of Human Demons.

    In ancient times, humans were weak and dependent on the existence of demons. They were almost like ves, with demons having control over their lives. Some humans became food for demons, while others became their ythings. Offspring born from the union of humans and demons had mixed bloodlines.

    What made these Human Demons most miserable is that neither side epts them. They are neither loved by their fathers nor cared for by their mothers. In fact, many Human Demons are killed by their parents when they are still infants.

    In ancient times, there were many Human Demons. Some of them joined forces with the Green Emperor to protect their territories and help fight against the Yao tribe.

    After the Human Tribe won, they were supposed to give a territory to the Human Demon, but other members of the tribe opposed it. This made the Human Demon furious, so he rebelled and joined the Demon Tribe. Eventually, the Green Emperor suppressed him.

    Remembering their past achievements, the Green Emperor didnбпt kill them all but instead banished them to the almost uninhabited North State. They had to fend for themselves, and for a while, North State became known as the Demon Province.

    In the following years, many evil practitioners of the Human Tribe fled to North State. Over time, they formed their ownmunity and didnбпt interact much with the cultivation world. This became the present-day North State.

    "Did the n Leader have any ns in North State?"

    "No, just taking a look around."

    "Is it really that casual?"

    Lin Jiang was surprised. Wasnбпt the Lin family on the verge of bankruptcy? Wasnбпt it difficult to amodate arge number of n members? How could they be so casual?

    Lin Batian remained silent, while Lin Die spoke even less. As a strange atmosphere enveloped the flying boat, Lin Jiang decided to stay quiet as well.

    The flying boat crossed Central Province and passed through You State until it reached North State, near the border with You State. That part of North State wasnбпtpletely covered in ice and snowбкit resembled a wastnd with sparse trees, exuding a touch of destion and grandeur.

    "This is North State, why canбпt I see anyone?"

    "The poption in North State is less than one-tenth of other states, extremely rare. Itбпs really hard to see anyone here."

    "What do cultivators in North State rely on for sustenance and how do they practice?"

    "North State has its own specialties. Youбпll know when the timees."

    Lin Batian shook his head. He had never been to North State, but he had heard a lot of things about it.

    "Bang!"

    After advancing for hundreds of miles, the flying boat suddenly got attacked. A light beam flew towards the boat, but Lin Batian quickly swatted it away. However, he noticed dozens of figures attacking from all directions.

    "The highest cultivation level is Nascent Soul. Lin Die, lead the team to disperse them, leave two alive to interrogate."

    "Okay."

    Lin Die didnбпt get angry about this and led people to fight, more than ten Lin family members attacked the thieves.

    "Arenбпt you going out to help?"

    Lin Batian looked at Lin Jiang in surprise, he acts like a lord, and so do you?

    "Ahem, Iбпll let my beast pet do the work."

    Lin Jiang felt a little embarrassed, fighting and killing is not very interesting.

    After saying that, he turned to Small Shadiao and gently tapped his head, saying, "What are you looking at? Go help!"

    Small Shadiao rubbed his forehead and flew out fiercely. He had a painful day and needed to shift this pain elsewhere.

    The attackers were not very strong, the strongest was only at the early stage of Nascent Soul. Lin Die easily defeated them, killing most of them. Only a few escaped, and Lin Die and Small Shadiao captured some prisoners.

    Lin Batian didnбпt bother with interrogation, he directly searched their souls, while Lin Jiang kept a close eye on one person. This person had dark scales on his body, as if he had a fish scale disease, which looked very disgusting.

    "Donбпt look, most of the people here in North State are a mix of Human and Demon. They either have a beast body with a human appearance or a human body with beast traits. In the future, youбпll see many of them, like those with horns on their foreheads or hands that change into ws. Itбпs different from the transformation of the demon tribe."

    "Yes, Third Auntie."

    Lin Jiang nodded, but his mind was full of imaginary mermaids. If there were mermaids in North State, would they have a human body with a fish head or a fish body with a human face?

    The scene shifted, and he thought of a certain movie scene. Hey, donбпt take off your clothes. I like this Avatarбн

    "What are you thinking about? You seem so engrossed."

    "Ahem, I spaced out, I spaced out."

    Lin Jiang felt awkward and dared not think anymore. If he kept thinking, he would embarrass himself.

    "Master, if you look at their storage bags, the contents are rough. I donбпt see any spiritual talismans, and their weapons are only at the level of spiritual tools. The treasures they use above the golden core level are also inferior."

    Some of the Lin family descendants searched through the storage bags of those people, but inside they found only worn-out items. There was nothing good.

    "I understand, I have a general understanding of the situation in North State, just follow me."

    Lin Batian nodded, he had finished searching souls and understood the general situation in North State.

    The flying boat continued to move forward, Lin Batian said to the crowd. The situation in North State is like this. North State is a cold and barrennd with very few spiritual veins. Most ces cannot sustain human life. However, there are still a lot of people in North State. They mainly live near some mines and rely on mining for a living. There are some merchants whoe from You State and bring clothes, food, etc. to trade with them. Itбпs basically making a huge profit.

    And the ones who just attacked us are bandits from North State. There are more bandits in North State than you can count. They make a living by plunderingбн

    Lin Batian exined the general situation in North State and asked the crowd how they could profit from it. Most people said they would be bandits. With their strength, bing a bandit would make them kings in North State. How many people could stop them?

    Lin Batian remained calm and silent, just looking at the crowd. Lin Jiang knew that Lin Batian didnбпt actually want to be just a bandit, but since Lin Die also didnбпt speak up, he didnбпt either, which irritated Lin Batian even more.

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 Chapter 272:

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    North State, a certain vige

    This is a vige with only a few hundred people. When Lin Familyбпs flying boatnded, Lin Batian exerted a little pressure, and the people in the vige knelt down, showing their submission.

    Later, someone brought a beautifuldy, food, and baskets of minerals to buy their lives.

    Lin Batian didnбпt want those things, he just took a few shabby houses to rest. The nights here were already very cold, but the cold didnбпt pose a threat to them, they just didnбпt want to move.

    The next day, Lin Batian sent people to leave the vige to explore the news in different parts of North State. Although he knew roughly what was happening, the intelligence wasnбпt detailed enough.

    "I have checked, this vige is very poor. They couldnбпt find a single spirit stone in the whole vige, only some tools of the magical artifact level. The entire vige relies on mining in exchange for food, barely surviving. The iron ore outside the vige is of good quality."

    "The people in this vige donбпt cultivate immortal techniques, but they have a strong demon bloodline. Each of them is physically strong, and in terms of individual strength, they are not inferior to the mid-stage of Qi Refining. Some individuals can even reach the strength of the Building Foundation Period."

    "Itбпs like a physical cultivator who uses martial skills to enter the Daoбдбдбдбдбд""They have already be ustomed to poverty and weakness. If a powerful immortal forcees, they will offer women and minerals as a means of protecting their lives. There are several groups of bandits nearby who wille to collect money on time, like protection fees or taxes."

    "Seeing the leopard through the tube, there should be many small viges like this in North State."

    Several high-level members of the Lin family gathered together to discuss. In just one day, they learned all the details about this vige. Their goal was to figure out how to get a slice of the chaotic North State.

    "Master, North State is very chaotic and there is no strong power. Why donбпt we be bandits and steal from them?"

    "I think itбпs feasible. The Lin family is already desperate. Itбпs a good idea to turn this ce into the permanent base for the Lin family."

    "However, the elderly, weak, and women of the Lin family cannot move here. The environment here is very poor, their cultivation is not enough, and they will have a short lifespan."

    "They donбпt have enough talent, and their cultivation speed is very slow. Half of their spiritual power is used to withstand the cold."

    The group spoke again, except for Lin Batian who remained silent. Then he let Lin Die speak.

    "I donбпt know, donбпt ask me."

    Lin Die continued to ck off. When Lin Batian asked her to do something, she would do it, but she no longer took the initiative to take on those responsibilities.

    "Hey, enough already, little brother."

    "I donбпt understand what Dad is saying."

    "Youбн"

    Lin Batian was extremely angry, both of his daughters rebelled. One ran away from home and he has no idea where she is now. The other is intentionally frustrating him.

    Lin Die remainedposed and unresponsive, paying no attention to Lin Batianбпs anger and tantrums. The silent treatment made Lin Batian helpless.

    "Lin Wu, what do you have to say?"

    "Master, Iбн"

    "If you dare say you donбпt know, donбпt bother asking, I will break your legs right now and throw you out."

    "бдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath, why on earth, why is it my fault when you canбпt handle your own daughter?

    "Speak."

    "Okay, does the head of the family want to make a quick profit and leave, or manage for a long time?"

    "Of course, itбпs to manage for a long time. You also know the current situation of the Lin family, we must find a source of wealth for them."

    "Then letбпs defeat the other bandits and be a thief king."

    "Please exin further."

    "We will treat North State as our own territory and manage it. We will be bandits, but not ordinary ones. We will first defeat and recruit other bandits, so that only our family remains as the bandits of North State. Then we will dominate the trade routes, and money will naturallye pouring in."

    "This request is not easy. The strength of the bandits in North State is very strong, especially because there are many powerful and dangerous creatures hidden here. Besides, the influence of You State surely has a huge interest here. If we do this, You State will not allow it."

    "Itбпs okay, if there are powerful creatures, we can win them over. If we offer enough money, I believe no one will refuse. As for the businesses of You State, we donбпt want to cut off their wealth, but cooperate with them. We will engage in buying and selling, but we want to make a profit. As long as we are strong enough, everything will go smoothly."

    Lin Jiang said. Having the capability to monopolize the trade routes makes us eligible for this. Without that capability, itбпs all just empty talk.

    "You have three days to give me a detailed report."

    "Yes"

    Lin Jiang answered, saying that the n is easy toe up with, but it depends on whether you can do it. If you canбпt do it, then itбпs his fault.

    бдбдбдбдбдбд

    Three days passed in the blink of an eye, and the people sent out by Lin Batian also gradually returned. They brought back more detailed information, such as the incrediblyrge number of thieves in North State.

    "In the North State cultivation world, there is almost no order. Everyone can be considered a thief. For example, in our vige, we are currently strong while they are humble and respectful. If we were not stronger than them, they would turn into wolves and devour us. The same goes for other viges. They can be poor, lowly, or even thieves."

    "In the North State, cultivators and Human Demons each have their own territories. Cultivators have no legitimate power and are all ruthless. Here, itбпs either you kill others or others kill you."

    "There is a deep conflict between cultivators and Human Demons. Some Human Demons have obvious characteristics of monsters, such as ws, which are considered valuable materials by cultivators. Thatбпs why many cultivators hunt and profit from the Human Demon n. Simrly, Human Demons also consume cultivators to grow strongerбн"

    The power of tradingpanies is terrifying here. Thesepanies have the influence of the You State or some forces in the northern part of Central Province. They use some inferior resources to trade for special products of the North State and make huge profits.

    Some ambitious cultivators wanted to unify the North State, but they all failed. It was the hands of those tradingpanies that stopped them. The major thieves in the North State are also supported by thesepanies, but at the same time, they also limit the power of the thievesбн"

    The disciples from the Lin family who came with Lin Batian are all very skilled. After a few days of investigation, they have gathered enough information about the situation in North State. They are extremely capable.

    "You have done well, Lin Wu. Now itбпs your turn to speak. Letбпs all listen to Lin Wu."

    Yes, master. My n is like this: the young members of the Lin family will disguise themselves as robbers. We will defeat all the other robbers in North State, take them under our control, and block the trade routes in the entire North State. We will have a monopoly over them.

    We donбпt need to spend time and energy managing North State. We wonбпt bother with the viges, cultivators, or Human Demons. However, all trade must be done by us. We will go to the indigenous people and collect goods, then sell them to merchants. We can also build a city as a hub for merchants. Either wayбн

    Lin Jiang also spoke confidently and shared his n. In reality, it wasnбпt anything new. The Arabs in Blue Starбпs history had done the same, and there are many simr examples in the cultivation world.

    In in words, the Lin family will use their own power to gain benefits in North State.

    "Master, with this n, we will have to fight everyone: the indigenous people, the robbers, and the merchants. If we donбпt defeat them, they wonбпt listen to us."

    "In a ce like North State, if you donбпt show your strength and defeat them, nothing is possible. Since we have to fight anyway, we might as well defeat them all at once. Of course, this matter is not urgent. We can n andy out the strategy for ten or twenty years."

    "I really like Lin Wuбпs n. We donбпt need to handle the merchandise ourselves; it requires too many people and hard work. We can earn protection fees instead. Letбпs follow the model of a cultivation city. Tomorrow, continue your investigation and find a suitable ce to build a city. Letбпs conquer a territory first."

    Lin Batian had decided to settle down. The environment in North State was too harsh, and all the members of the Lin family couldnбпt move here. Without enough reliable manpower, they couldnбпt aplish anything significant.

    So he could only operate ording to the model of a cultivation city, and it would be a rough one. But it didnбпt matter because he was here to make money.

    While Lin Batian had people prepare, he also gathered manpower. It was simply wishful thinking to control the entire North State with such a small group of people, but he still had many useful individuals under hismand, such as the remnants of the four major sects. They should contribute as well.

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 Chapter 273:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, White Bone Mountain

    No one knew the original name of White Bone Mountain, but ever since someone named the White Bone King came here, it has been called White Bone Mountain.

    White Bone Mountain is notrge, with a circumference of about three to four hundred miles. There are streams in the mountains that converge and form a major river within the North State, spanning nearly a thousand miles.

    White Bone Mountain is also one of the few areas in the North State that has spiritual veins. Although the level of the spiritual veins is not high, they are highly valuable in the North State.

    At this moment, outside White Bone Mountain, the Lin family and theirpanions gathered their energy. Lin Batian activated a prohibition to conceal everyoneбпs presence.

    Master, this is White Bone Mountain. It is upied by the bandit leader, White Bone King. Originally from the southern province, White Bone King obtained a book called the боWhite Bone Secret Scripturesбп and went down a wicked path. Unable to stay in the southern province any longer, he came to Qing State, Bing State, and other areas in the central province to cause trouble.

    Because of his martial arts techniques, which require killing and refining bones, his methods are extremely cruel. He is also wanted in all the provinces. There were rumors that he was killed, but in the end, he escaped to North State and took over White Bone Mountain, dering himself as White Bone King.

    White Bone King didnбпt waste his time here. He gathered thousands of followers and established control over arge area. He is one of the strongest bandits in North Stateбн he evenбнA member of the Lin family exined to Lin Batian about the truth of White Bone Mountain and also mentioned the origins of White Bone King. White Bone Mountain is extremely powerful, and White Bone King himself is at the Soul Changing cultivation level. He also has seven Nascent Soul followers, making him a tyrant in North State.

    "Then letбпs go after White Bone King. Yueбпer and I will go in first, while the rest of you watch from the outside and take care of anyone who tries to escape."

    Lin Batian nodded. In North State, the strongest cultivation level was Soul Changing Period, which didnбпt frighten him. He believed that there were even stronger individuals in North State, possibly having achieved the Tao. If that was the case, they would have to run away.

    If there is no one who has achieved the Tao, only those who have reached the Void Achieving stage, Lin Batian would not be afraid. He believed that with his strength, he would already have some opponents among those who have reached Void Achieving.

    Everyone nodded and quickly spread out. Lin Batian and Xiao Lingyue, who had just arrived yesterday, entered White Bone Mountain. White Bone Mountain was protected byyers of formations, which should theoretically be able to stop powerful enemies. However, they were unlucky enough to encounter Lin Batian, who had cheated the system, so ordinary formations couldnбпt stop his Spatiotemporal Mirror ability.

    "Boom"

    With just one move, Lin Batian sent White Bone King flying with a spear, causing chaos in the entire White Bone Mountain.

    "Lin Lang, let Yueбпer give it a try."

    "You are no match for the White Bone King, he has already reached the Soul Changing advanced stage."

    "Yueбпer knows that, but Yueбпer wants to know her own limits. Yueбпer doesnбпt want to always rely on Lin Langбпs protection and wants to share some of his pressure."

    "Alright, you go and give it a try. Donбпt worry, Iбпll be here with you, you will be fine."

    Lin Batian nodded, knowing that Xiao Lingyue didnбпt have much fighting experience, so it would be good for her to practice.

    Upon hearing this, Xiao Lingyue immediately rushed towards the White Bone King. At this moment, the White Bone King revealed his true form. He was extremely skinny, like a ck skeleton, with no trace of whiteness.

    The White Bone King held a bone sword and transformed into his powerful Soul Changing Dharma Appearance: a huge white skeletal dharma body exuding a dark aura. This dark aura posed a great threat to cultivators, as it could corrode their spiritual energy and greatly increase the White Bone Kingбпs strength.

    Xiao Lingyue also transformed into her dharma body for the first time in battle. Her dharma body was a giant made of ice and snow. As soon as the giant appeared, White Bone Mountain was covered in ice, turning weaker cultivators into ice sculptures.

    The poisonous gas of the White Bone King was restrained by the ice and snow, and they quickly fought each other. Lin Batian watched the battlefield and casually said. I am a Void Achieving practitioner and I havee to recruit and surrender you. Those who surrender will be spared from deathбн

    As soon as Lin Batian spoke, chaos erupted inside White Bone Mountain. Some people who were preparing to escape suddenly stopped in their tracks. As a thief, it didnбпt matter who their leader was as long as they were powerful and could get their share of the loot.

    Some people continued to run, while others stayed behind to watch. However, no one attacked Lin Batian because anyone who could survive in North State was a normal person, not a fool.

    Outside White Bone Mountain, Lin Die had already intercepted the fleeing thieves with his men. Lin Jiang also joined in, but he told Small Shadiao to stay close and fight alongside him.

    It was unfair for one golden core with a fourth-order beast pet to fight against another golden core. In just a moment, Lin Jiang gained two extra storage bags.

    "Go help Lin Die."

    Lin Jiang saw that it was almost over and withdrew from the fight. He avoided fighting if he could, and survival was more important. Lin Die was struggling against three opponents, so Lin Jiang asked Small Shadiao for help.

    Inside White Bone Mountain, the White Bone King unleashed all his abilities. He not only had the Soul Changing Dharma Appearance, but also a Combat Puppet formed by the convergence of countless white bones. He even activated the formation of White Bone Mountain. With these threebined, Xiao Lingyue could only defend and couldnбпt even counterattack. His face became even paler.

    The White Bone Kingбпs attacks were fierce. His main goal now was to capture Xiao Lingyue and threaten Lin Batian. It was his only chance of survival.

    Lin Batian saw that Xiao Lingyue was no longer able to hold on, so he quickly took action and used only one spear to smash the Combat Puppet.

    "Gather."

    As the Combat Puppet exploded, the White Bone King immediately activated a secret spell, causing the scattered bones toe together again.

    "Infuse soul."

    The White Bone King shouted again, and a small gourd flew from his waist, creating an illusion as itnded inside the Combat Puppet. The empty eye sockets of the Combat Puppet instantly ignited two mes.

    "Herees the sword."

    The Combat Puppet immediately changed, waving its hand to summon hundreds of bone swords that formed a huge flying sword in the air, shing towards Lin Batian. Its strength was not inferior to that of a regrte-stage Soul Changing warrior.

    "Interesting."

    This was the first time Lin Batian had seen this kind of secret technique, and he found it quite interesting.

    "Yueбпer,e, you go freeze that Combat Puppet."

    Lin Batian quickly switched positions with Xiao Lingyue. Lin Batian faced the White Bone King, while Xiao Lingyue went to freeze the Combat Puppet. If they kept attacking, who knows how long it would take to consume the energy of that Combat Puppet. It was better to freeze it directly.

    "White Bone Escape Technique."

    The White Bone King was not foolish enough to fight Lin Batian head-on. He already knew Lin Batianбпs power, so when he saw Lin Batianing, he immediately used the escape technique. He transformed into hundreds of white bones, shooting out in all directions, trying to escape.

    "Runs very fast."

    Lin Batian quickly attacked, knocking down most of the white bones. However, there were still a few that managed to escape. He had to admire the talent of this White Bone King. He was decisive.

    "Surrender."

    Lin Batian didnбпt chase after the White Bone King. Just a Soul Changing couldnбпt cause much trouble. If the White Bone King was still causing trouble in North State, there would be plenty of opportunities to kill him.

    The remaining bandits of White Bone Mountain all surrendered, even happily. They had a stronger boss now.

    The formation opened up, and Lin Die and the others all entered. They surrendered the remaining people, cleaned up the battlefield, and collected the loot, keeping themselves busy and happy.

    "We are so poor, we almost made a loss."

    One dayter, Lin Die counted the loot and thought to herself. She already knew the situation. Most of the wealth of White Bone Mountain was with the White Bone King himself, and there wasnбпt really any treasure trove. After a battle, they almost made a loss.

    "Looks like it was my mistake. We need to chase and kill the White Bone King."

    "Donбпt worry, Head of the Family. We still have the rest of the members from White Bone Mountain. Once we take control of the White Bone Kingбпs resources, we wonбпt worry about money anymore."

    "Youбпre right. The next step is to subdue other bandits as quickly as possible. After we have control over these members, we need toe up with a new name. We canбпt continue using the Lin familyбпs name."

    Lin Batian nodded. Everyone needed to change their identities. They would now operate under the name of bandits.

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 Chapter 274:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, White Bone Mountain

    Dear brothers, dear Taoist friends, our master and disciple havee to North State. Weбпre not here to harm or plunder you. Weбпre here to help you. My master, Void Achieving, is incredibly powerful. We aim to be the biggest group of bandits in North State. You will be the greatest bandits in North State if you follow us and grow stronger. Together, we will bring greatness back.

    We have a n. In three years, we will eliminate all other bandits in North State. And in five years, we willбн

    Lin Jiang stood before the bandits of White Bone Mountain and gave a speech. His captivating words stirred up their desires.

    Of course, there were also members of the Lin family observing their expressions. If they werenбпt excited by Lin Jiangбпs words, it meant they were clever. Clever people need to be eliminated. The Lin family doesnбпt need too many clever people; having our own clever people is enough.

    Lin Jiang talked until his mouth was dry. He stopped, waved his hand, and arge amount of food and drink was brought over. Bandits like to eat and drink heartily. We face difficulties together and enjoy good fortune together.

    "Uncle, Iбпve written down their names. There are fifteen in total, and theyбпre all clever. They wonбпt be swayed by your influence. How do we get rid of them?"

    "When the timees to attack other bandits, weбпll send them as the vanguard. Theyбпll always be at the forefront of every battle, fearless and unwavering."Lin Jiang said. Directly getting rid of them would be too foolish. We need to be more subtle. For example, we can use them as cannon fodder.

    "Yes, Uncle."

    "Remember to call me Martial Uncle from now on, we are now like brothers."

    Lin Jiang said. We can no longer use the Lin family identity. Lin Batian has changed his name to Long Xiaotian directly, and the others can choose their own names. They can call themselves whatever they want, as long as they keep their talents and fame hidden.

    And in the future, White Bone Mountain will be renamed Xiaotian Mountain. Lin Jiang doesnбпt like this name at all and wonders what Lin Batian was thinking. He guesses that Lin Batian probably doesnбпt know that there is a dog called the Howling Dog, otherwise he wouldnбпt have chosen this name.

    Half a monthter, the group from White Bone Mountain, now called Xiaotian Mountain, under the leadership of Lin Batian, starts to conquer a group of thieves who have taken over dozens of viges. They are even working with a big tradingpany and are bing more powerful than White Bone Mountain.

    Surprise attacks are no longer possible. As soon as White Bone Mountain starts to fight, the whole North State will know that a group of powerful people has arrived. The famous White Bone King has been defeated in battle.

    The two sides engage in an open fight, a fair and honorable battle. Forget about strategies and formations, these bandits are not capable of that. Itбпs mainly a showdown between skilled fighters.

    Lin Batian takes the lead and with his powerful skills, he kills the leader of the other side. Lin Jiang and the others donбпt have to fight for long before they start cleaning up the battlefield.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "ording to the intelligence, there are still seven major bandit groups and over a dozen medium-sized bandit groups in the North State. They have all joined forces and there are traces of the You State tradingpany. They are quick to react, and our Xiaotian Mountain will face a counterattack."

    Just after defeating two big bandits, the situation in North State suddenly changed. The bandits who used to fight against each other have now united and caused a lot ofmotion. People sent by Lin Batian have already gathered information.

    "Iбпm not afraid of them joining forces. Itбпs actually convenient. Letбпs get rid of all of them at once."

    "We are no match for them right now. We only have less than five thousand people, while they have at least fifty to sixty thousand. Among them, there are many skilled fighters, and the powerful bandit leader, Soul Changing, is there. If You Stateбпs merchants intervene, Void Achieving will surely attack."

    "It doesnбпt matter. I will take action."

    Lin Batian still had full confidence. The remaining forces of the four major factions have arrived. At least two Void Achieving and five to six Soul Changing fighters will be there. Their strength is enough.

    "Since the head of the family is so confident, then letбпs not worry. Letбпs stick to the original n and send people to deal with small-scale bandits, conquer nearby viges, and force them to pay tribute."

    "Alright, Lin Die will take Lin Wuбпs Aurora falcon to monitor the movements of those bandits. Lin Chaosheng will lead a group to subdue the small-scale bandits. Lin Chaoyun and his team will collect the tribute. Lin Wu will be responsible for the construction of Xiaotian Mountain and needs to build the cultivation city as soon as possible."

    Lin Batian nodded and assigned tasks to everyone. They all left to carry out their duties.

    Lin Jiang took charge of the construction of Xiaotian City. It wasnбпt an easy task. If it was in Yun State or the central region, it would be simple. Just hire independent cultivators if you have money, or conscript ordinary people if you donбпt. Basically, there is no shortage of manpower or materials.

    In North State, itбпs not possible to find independent farmers like here. We can only find vigers. Even though the vigers are not weak, we still need professionals to build a city.

    Moreover, the materials in North State are very scarce. Building a city as a cultivator is not as simple as piling up some buildings. The city walls need to be able to set up formations, and the buildings inside the city need to be built ording to the spiritual veins and formations. Lin Jiang is also confused.

    It took Lin Jiang several days to gradually figure things out. He dug out talented people from the captured bandits, worked with Lin Chaosheng, and after defeating small-scale bandits, he captured more prisoners to work asborers and help them build the city, slowly getting back on track.

    The progress of the united offensive by the North State Bandits is very slow. After all, they belong to dozens of different forces. It is not an easy task to gather them together.

    So, after waiting for about three months, the North State Bandits are almost fully integrated. They areing towards Xiaotian Mountain with great force. Before the people arrived, news of Lin Die has already been trickling back.

    "There are at least a hundred ways to defeat them."

    Lin Jiang said in his heart. This group of bandits is just a bunch of misfits. Even though their strength may not beparable to his, Lin Jiang believes he can easily defeat them.

    For example, using diversion tactics, luring the enemy deep, and so on. Many strategies have already formed in Lin Jiangбпs mind. If he can drag them on for a while, their short-lived alliance will fall apart.

    Of course, Lin Batian doesnбпt need tactics. During these three months, the Lin family not only swept away the small-scale bandits around, but also started providing trade tforms for some businesses. Lin Batian also called for help.

    Lin Batian led the soldiers from Xiaotian Mountain out of the city to prepare for battle. There were about five to six thousand people from Xiaotian Mountain, but the Lin family only had less than a hundred people. Including the captured soldiers, there were five Nascent Soul cultivators and one bird, while Xiao Lingyue was the only Soul Changing cultivator.

    On the other hand, the North State Bandits had an impressive force of around sixty to seventy thousand soldiers. They had nine Soul Changing cultivators and more than twenty Nascent Soul cultivators, making them appear even more formidable.

    "As expected, there are Void Achieving cultivators. Damn it, how did Void Achieving end up in North State?"

    Someone among the North State Bandits cursed, saying that Void Achieving cultivators were nearly at the peak of the cultivation world. They were respected and powerful wherever they went, so why would theye to North State, a ce known for its poverty?

    "We canбпt handle Void Achieving, even if the nine of us join forces. Letбпs ask for help."

    "Please."

    After some discussion, they decided to hire someone to take action. They had already made arrangements and negotiated the price beforehand. The cost would differ depending on whether the person was simply observing or engaging inbat.

    Now that they were certain Lin Batian possessed Void Achieving cultivation, they couldnбпt afford to skimp on the payment. They decided to let the hired person take action.

    "Taking it slow is boring. Letбпs start the fight."

    Lin Batian saw the opposing formation for a long time without taking action, then he directly moved first and flew towards the opponent.

    Before the person even arrived, someone flew out from the opposing formation and stopped Lin Batian. The North State Bandits immediately shouted. Follow me and kill them, break through the White Bone Mountain, and make a fortune!

    The nine people were extremely fast and instantly arrived on this side of Xiaotian Mountain. But on this side of Xiaotian Mountain, a long sword appeared and sliced through the air, aiming at the nine people.

    "Achieving the Void"

    "And also achieving the Void"

    When the nine people saw this, they cried out in despair. They still didnбпt understand why the enemy also had the ability to achieve the Void. Was achieving the Void not valuable anymore?

    "Attack, kill them"

    Lin Die had also given the order, and a group of people rushed out.

    "Letбпs also take action"

    In the sky, Wei Dao from Taixu Sect and Tian Li from Infinite Pce appeared and spoke to the remaining members of the four sects. The Lin family is going bankrupt, and they are also very poor. These people in front of them are not North State Bandits, but a group of fat sheep in their eyes.

    The massacre started almostpletely one-sided.

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 Chapter 275:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian Mountain.

    When the North State Bandits saw the appearance of Void Achieving, not just one of them, they werepletely desperate. Especially the White Bone King, he was driven out of White Bone Mountain and relied on his past reputation to mix among other bandits. He desperately incited this siege, but when he saw Void Achieving appear, he turned and ran in despair.

    Soul Changing is fast on his feet, and Nascent Soul is not slow either. As soon as they see the situation is not good, they immediately retreat. Without their leader, the remaining bandits be chaotic, thatбпs why they are called a disorganized group.

    On the other hand, the morale of Xiaotian Mountain soared high. They rush forward with loud cries. With Void Achieving sitting there, why should they fear anything?

    Lin Jiang doesnбпt want to miss out on this favorable battle. He charges even faster than them and relies on his sevenyered robe for protection, so he is basically immune to attacks below Nascent Soul.

    Lin Jiangбпs true flying sword has been nurtured for decades and is extremely sharp. With one sh, more than a dozen flying swords instantly turn into fragments, unstoppable.

    "Little Shadiao, donбпt charge forward foolishly, try to snatch more loot!"

    Lin Jiang saw that Little Shadiao was about to lose, so he quickly transmitted a message to him. Silly guy, why havenбпt you collected any loot in this easy battle?Upon hearing this, Little Shadiao paused for a moment, then followed Lin Jiangбпs advice. He turned around and started randomly attacking a group of weak opponents with only Building foundation and Qi Refining levels. In an instant, their storage bags were full of treasures.

    At the same time, high up in the sky, the battle between Void Achieving experts had stopped because Lin Batianбпs true identity was revealed. Lin Batian had undergone a disguise, but unfortunately, he ran into someone familiar this time.

    "I didnбпt expect to meet Taoist Friend Zhou here."

    "I also didnбпt expect to encounter you. Why did youe to North State instead of fighting in Qing State?"

    Zhou Huaiying said. This fight cannot go on. I donбпt think we can defeat Lin Batian. I know how formidable he can be, especially during his time in the Divine Kingdom. Even top Tao Achieving experts canбпt defeat him.

    "I donбпt have money, so I want to earn a little fortune."

    "Youбпve also be poor?"

    "Is Taoist Friend Zhou also poor?"

    "Iбн"

    Zhou Huaiying looked bitter. He had been wandering in the Divine Kingdom for over a thousand years. His sect had long been deserted, his family had passed away, and his property had been seized. Even though he had established some new businesses and had a certain ie after his return, it was still far lesspared to his expenses.

    However, inparison to his expenses, his ie was insufficient. Otherwise, how could a prestigious Void Achieving cultivator like him end up bing a mercenary here? It was embarrassing to even mention it.

    "Taoist Friend Zhou, itбпs not embarrassing to be a little poor. Donбпt worry, with me, Brother Lin, by your side, you wonбпt be poor. You know who I am. Letбпs make money together."

    Lin Batian immediately changed his attitude and confidently said to Zhou Huaiying. If they were acquaintances, perhaps they could cooperate.

    "Brother Lin."

    Wei Dao and Tian Li chased for a while but quickly returned when they saw that Lin Batian had stopped. They were somewhat surprised.

    "Ahem, let me introduce you, Taoist Friend Wei, Taoist Friend Tian, this is Zhou Huaiying, a disciple of the Tianxuan Sect in the Central Province."

    "Met Taoist Friend Zhou"

    "Hello, two Taoist friends"

    "Brother Lin, what do we do now, should we still fight?"

    Zhou Huaiying looked at the two people in front of him and silently thought, luckily they are acquaintances, otherwise he would have been in trouble with a three-to-one situation today.

    "What are you saying, Taoist Friend Zhou is my sworn brother, weбпve gone through life and death together. Isnбпt that right? How could wey hands on each other?"

    "Yes, since we are all acquaintances, thereбпs no need to fight. Letбпs sit down and talk."

    Zhou Huaiying immediately changed his tune,pletely betraying the North State Bandits. Their life or death had nothing to do with him.

    "Taoist Friend Zhou, could you exin the situation in North State to us?"

    "The situation in North State is much moreplicated than you imagine."

    "Is it as deep as the third or fourth floor?"

    Lin Batian cannot deny it, he knows the water depth in North State, but he believes he can ovee it.

    "Brother Lin is so skilled and brave, I feel inferiorpared to him. But I still advise Brother Lin to take whatбпs good and leave, to make some gains and go away."

    "The grudge between me and Qing State is no secret. Unless Qing State is defeated, I wonбпt give up. Now that I am not as powerful as Qing State, I must choose a ce to grow. I have set my sights on North State and wonбпt easily let go. Taoist Friend Zhou, I donбпt want to be your enemy, nor the behind-the-scenes Tianxuan Sect. So itбпs best to speak openly about any issues, to avoid damaging our rtionshipter."

    "Does Brother Lin really insist on developing in North State?"

    "Yes."

    "Brother Lin really isnбпt afraid of my Tianxuan Sect."

    "Tao Achieving doesnбпt mean I havenбпt killed before. I said I donбпt want to be enemies with you."

    Lin Batian emphasized once again that he didnбпt want to be enemies, but it doesnбпt mean he couldnбпt be enemies. If Qing State is strong enough, they will fight. Whatбпs the big deal with Tianxuan Sect?

    "Brother Lin, since we know each other, letбпs not argue. If thereбпs something, letбпs discuss it calmly."

    Wei Dao spoke up to mediate. He knew the strength of Tianxuan Sect and didnбпt want another strong enemy. He wasnбпt as assertive as Lin Batian.

    The situation in North State isplicated, and itбпs not just something Iбпm saying. Itбпs a fact and itбпs rted to Green Emperorбпs arrangements. Green Emperor banished the Human Demon n to North State. Among these Human Demons, there are extremely powerful ones. They possess the strength of both humans and demons, with robust bodies, long lifespans, and the ability to learn like humans. They even retain the vicious and murderous nature of demons. In Green Emperorбпs time, there were numerous geniuses in the cultivation world who could control them.

    But now, if we let the Human Demon n grow stronger, the humans may not be able to control them. Thatбпs why humans have always suppressed the Human Demon n. As you know the situation in North State, the elite of the Human Demon n have all been driven to the northernmost region and their resources have been restricted. If Brother Lin takes over North State, he must abide by this principle, otherwise, Brother Lin would be opposing the entire cultivation world.

    After thinking for a while, Zhou Huaiying said. This is also one of the inside stories. Itбпs not a secret in Tianxuan Sect, but many people still donбпt understand why they are so cruel to North State.

    "Thatбпs natural. We are here to make money, not to be saviors. Zhou, we agree on this point. Our presence in North State will not change the situation here. We are only dealing with those bandits. We will do it the same way they did it before. We wonбпt change anything for the benefit of Tianxuan Sect."

    Lin Batian immediately said. Thatбпs reasonable. He hasnбпt reached a point where he can ignore everything. Itбпs normal to protect the interests of Tianxuan Sect.

    Zhou Huaiying breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this. He was truly afraid that Lin Batian was a reckless person. If that were the case, Tianxuan Sect would have to go to war with him.

    "Since thatбпs the case, I wonбпt say much more. Iбпll just advise Brother Lin that North State is treacherous, with many hidden experts, especially those from the evil path. They have unique methods that are hard to defend against."

    "Thank you, Taoist Friend Zhou. I wonder how strong the Human Demon n in North State is."

    "They are very extreme. The strong ones are especially strong, and the weak ones are extremely weak. In the far north of North State, there are some Human Demon Tribes. They are born with Building Foundation Period strength, which is very scary. If it werenбпt for the continuous attacks by the human race over the years, they would have already unified North State."

    "There is such a powerful race?"

    "The Human Demon race is veryplex. Itбпs hard to exin in just a few words. In any case, Brother Lin, be careful."

    "Alright, letбпs do it like this for today. We will clean up the battlefield first, and then discuss and n before going to Tianxuan Sect to discuss with your sect, what do you think?"

    "Okay, I hope Brother Lin remembers what was just said."

    "Of course."

    Zhou Huaiying didnбпt say much. As long as Tianxuan Sectбпs strength isnбпt harmed, itбпs fine.

    Zhou Huaiying quickly left, and Lin Batian asked about the oue of the battle.

    "Soul Changing, I killed two, Tian brother killed one, and also took out several Nascent Soul, they were just a group of weaklings."

    "It will take some time to clean them up."

    "Wei brother and Tian brother can send a group of elite soldiers, but they must be reliable and not expose our identities. Otherwise, if the Qing State attacks, this ce will be ruined. In the vast cultivation world, we donбпt have many ces to go."

    "Thatбпs natural, we know."

    Wei Dao nodded. Over the years, they have traveled far and wide, and there are not many ces left to go. If this ce is ruined, they truly have nowhere else to go.

    The three of them arrived at the battlefield and saw that the soldiers from Xiaotian Mountain were already cleaning up the battlefield. Arge number of prisoners were being escorted, but Lin Die and the others didnбпt know where they had gone to chase the enemy.

    Lin Batian urged people to quickly clean up the battlefield and told Wei Dao and the others to hunt down the remaining Soul Changing Nascent Soul. These experts must be eliminated, otherwise their presence in the North State would be insecure.

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 Chapter 276:

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    North State, Xiaotian City

    Xiaotian City is not yet built, and Lin Jiang now has a group of extra workers. There was a battle outside Xiaotian City, and the Lin family captured nearly ten thousand prisoners. These prisoners were all ced under a restriction spell to work asborers and speed up the construction of the city.

    The remnants of the four major sects also appeared. A total of almost a hundred people came, all of them elite warriors. The rest are only women, children, and the elderly, who were arranged in other ces.

    Among them, there are still five Soul Changing experts and over ten Nascent Soul experts. They made up for theck of high-level power in Xiaotian City. They are currently leading teams to continue hunting down the remaining enemies in various ces in North State.

    This is a long-term thing. It will not bepleted in just three to five years. Even a hundred or eighty years is normal.

    Just a few days after the big battle, viges from North State came to trade because they couldnбпt wait any longer. The environment in North State is not suitable for ordinary people to live in. There is very little self-produced food, and most people in those viges cannotpletely rely on fasting. They need food to sustain their lives, so they are forced toe to Xiaotian City to trade.

    "Themercial activities in Xiaotian City must beunched. The things we brought with us wonбпtst long. Once those Human Demon viges run out of food, they will rebel. It will not be worth it by then."

    "City Lord, I have seen several trades in the city, and they are all exchanging extremely cheap food, cloth, and magical tools for valuable specialties. Otherwise, why donбпt we go to other states to buy supplies and trade with them? We canбпt let others take advantage of us for nothing.""No, North State hates monopolies the most. We donбпt have that kind of power yet. Tomorrow I will set off for Tianxuan Sect and negotiate the matter. Once Tianxuan Sect agrees, we donбпt need to worry about other forces. When Iбпm not here, you can follow our previous agreement, and make sure topletely eliminate the remaining bandits."

    Lin Batian shook his head. He also knew that the merchants made the most profit in this process, but their strength was not enough to control all the profits. They had to allocate a portion of it.

    "Xiao Yi, you know Zhou Huaiying too. Come with me tomorrow."

    "Yes, City Lord, about building the cityбн"

    "We have enough people now, we donбпt need you."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang shrugged. He didnбпt care. He didnбпt want to do this tiring job anymore, and there was no profit to be made.

    The next day, Lin Jiang followed Lin Batian to Tianxuan Sect. On the way, he had already learned some basic information about Tianxuan Sect.

    Tianxuan Sect is a powerful sect that spans across the central region and You State. There are Tao Achievers in the sect who hold great power. Tianxuan Sect ims to be from the central region, but its main influence lies in You State. It is an interesting sect.

    Tianxuan Sectбпs history is not very long, but it is stronger than recently established sects like Spiritual Moon Sect. The sect is still expanding and full of youthful energy. Thatбпs why it wonбпt be easy for Lin Batian to negotiate this trip.

    "If we can make a deal with Tianxuan Sect, you can use your skills to establish yourself in a big city in You State. Continue trading goods for the family."

    "Master, how likely is it to reach an agreement?"

    "Fifty-fifty. The key lies with Zhou Huaiying. Since Zhou Huaiying has been away from the Divine Kingdom for so long, he has lost all his foundations. He still has great hope for the path ahead, but he needs benefits. The power of Void Achieving is not weak. If he can help, itбпs basically a done deal."

    "From my understanding of Zhou Huaiying, he is determined and strategic. Without real and tangible benefits, itбпs difficult to persuade him."

    "Yes, and I previously tricked him a little when we were in the Divine Kingdom. He is quite cautious of me, so Iбпm relying on you to deceive him."

    "Master thinks highly of me, but Iбпm just a small golden core."

    "Intelligence and cultivation are unrted. Iбпll help you establish a connection, but the rest is up to you."

    "Master, give me a hint, and Iбпll give it a try."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He couldnбпt offer anything valuable, so he could only rely on what Lin Batian had to impress Zhou Huaiying.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    You State, Tianxuan Sect

    One-fifth of the territory of Tianxuan Sect is in the northern part of You State, and four-fifths of it is in You State as well. Its entrance gate is also within the boundaries of You State. Following the news from the Sound Passing Talisman, Zhou Huaiying arrived at a tavern in Xuanmiao City.

    "Leader, itбпs me, Xiao Yi."

    "No one is in the Divine Kingdom anymore. Why are you talking about a leader? Itбпs just asking for ridicule."

    "Yes, yes, youбпre right, senior."

    "Youбпre from the Lin family, right?"

    "Yes, I deceived you back then. It was out of necessity. Please forgive me, senior."

    "Where is your familyбпs leader? Why are you the only one here?"

    "The family leader went to pay a visit to Tianxuan Sect. They asked me toe and catch up with you, senior. Itбпs been almost a hundred years since west saw each other. Iбпve missed you so much."

    Lin Jiang said. Letбпs focus on building rtionships with the Divine Kingdom before we say anything else.

    "Indeed, it has been a hundred years since I came out. Have others seen it?"

    "Except for the seniors and a few Soul Changing seniors, most others have met them. Gu Pingboбн"

    Lin Jiang shared news about the others. Gu Pingbo withdrew from worldly affairs and cultivation in Yun State. Yi Zhibai from Pure Jade Sect has already passed away, and some others have also passed away or lost touch. asional updates doe in.

    "Divine Kingdom, causing trouble for me."

    Upon hearing this, Zhou Huaiying was deeply moved. The Divine Kingdom has changed the fortunes of many people. If he hadnбпt wasted over a thousand years there, he might have already achieved Tao. How could he be in such a difficult situation today?

    With a shared memory foundation, it became easier to move on to the next topic. Lin Jiang already had a general idea of Zhou Huaiyingбпs current situation through other channels.

    Since returning from the Divine Kingdom, everything has changed in Tianxuan Sect. It has been such a long time. The master and fellow disciples have mostly passed away, as have his family members. Zhou Huaiying, who was once a young prodigy, has lost the advantage of youth, but his determination towards the Tao has grown stronger.

    "Senior, look at my poor memory. After a hundred years, when we meet again, I only thought about drinking. I have a gift for you."

    Lin Jiang saw that the atmosphere was almost the same, and he took out a jade slip and handed it to Zhou Huaiying. With a sweep of his divine consciousness, Zhou Huaiyingбпs brows moved.

    "You really came prepared, and itбпs actually a Tao Achieving insight."

    "Senior is a wise person. Junior dare not y tricks in front of senior. This insight is a gift. If the two families cooperate, there will be five more insights to offer."

    Lin Jiang said. The Tianxuan Sect has Tao Achieving Ancestors from three generations, but our foundation cannotpare to the four major families. We donбпt have enough in terms of quantity.

    Why are there more cultivators with lower cultivation levels? Apart from the different levels of difficulty in reaching different realms, there is another reason. There are too many people who have achieved breakthroughs in these realms. They have already experienced all the pitfalls on their cultivation path, and the experiences they have summarized can helpter generations avoid them perfectly.

    On the other hand, the higher the cultivation level, the fewer people there are, but the more pitfalls have been discovered. This emphasizes the importance of these experiences and insights, which are known as foundation.

    "I will not disregard the interests of the sect for personal gain."

    Senior is joking. Junior would never have such thoughts. The North State is chaotic andcks order. Theoretically, it may benefit the human race and the Tianxuan Sect, but in the long run, it may not be the case.

    The so-called rebounding from the bottom, the Human Demon n is currently in a terrible state, with no resources left. However, even in such a dire situation, if a remarkable figure were to appear in the Human Demon n, it could lead to the emergence of extraordinary talents.

    To maintain order in North State, knowing the details of North State is actually more beneficial to the human race. Even if there are any major changes, they can be stopped at the very beginning.

    "I canбпt make the decision."

    Zhou Huaiying didnбпt answer directly. There is some truth to the point, but he is not the head of the Tianxuan Sect right now.

    "Yes, what the senior said is also true. I canбпt make the decision either."

    Lin Jiang said, not in a hurry, quickly changed the topic.

    Lin Jiang asked about Xuanmiao City, which is thergest cultivation city in the You State. It is a ce with talented people and rich resources, as well as a gathering ce for wealth in the Bing State.

    Lin Jiang hinted to Zhou Huaiying that he intends to open a business there, do some trading. It made Zhou Huaiying intrigued, this is another way to tempt him.

    Having eaten and drunk his fill, Lin Jiang didnбпt dare to take Zhou Huaiying to have a heart-to-heart conversation with the fairy. People like her, actually donбпt need money at all. If he wants a woman, as long as he hints a little, he will be overwhelmed with offers.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang lingered in Xuanmiao City, investigating the basic situation such as prices, while Lin Batian was lobbying the high-level members of the Tianxuan Sect.

    "Do you have anything to say about the recent matters discussed by the Lin family?"

    As Lin Batian became more forceful in his attitude, the leaders of Tianxuan Sect could no longer dy and summoned a meeting to discuss the matter.

    "Elder, Lin Batian is a member of the Lin family, one of the four major ns. For reasons unknown, he has turned against his own family. The two sides have been fighting for over a hundred years, and even the Chen familyбпs Tao Achieving cultivator was killed by him. Honestly, we may not be able to withstand Lin Batianбпs control over the North State."

    "Indeed, Elder, as far as I know, Lin Batian has also allied himself with the original four major sects of the Qing State. Wei Dao, a Void Achieving cultivator from Taixu Sect, has appeared in the North State. They practically already have control over half of the North State. We might not be able to resist."

    "Thatбпs ridiculous! We donбпt need to take action ourselves, just leak the information to the Qing State."

    "Leaking the information to the Qing State may be simple and solve the problem, but it will only create another enemy for Tianxuan Sect in Lin Batian."

    Zhou Huaiying said coldly. Only a foolish person would say such things.

    "Why should Tianxuan Sect fear Lin Batian?"

    "Elder, please consider carefully. If you are confident in a single fatal blow, then thereбпs no need to worry about anything else. But if youбпre not sure, then be cautious."

    "I understand now."

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect nodded, the situation is actually quite clear. Lin Batian has already effectively taken control of North State. Itбпs a face-saving move for him to be willing to talk and seek a win-win oue. Itбпs also possible for him to not give face.

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 Chapter 277:

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    You State and Tianxuan Sect

    "Finally, itбпs settled. Tianxuan Sect has agreed to join forces with many other sects in You State and send people to reside in Xiaotian City. They will be the main traders in Xiaotian City, specializing in purchasing North State specialties."

    "Congrattions, Lord, for achieving your wish."

    "Itбпs not much. He took a big bite out of our interests."

    "Lord, you donбпt need to worry. If we gain benefits, it means heбпs on our side. Thatбпs a good thing."

    "Donбпt think too much. If something really happens, they will be the first ones to abandon us. Instead of saying that, focus on establishing your business in Xuanmiao City. When the timees, Xiaotian City will send a constant stream of resources for you to convert here. You hold great significance here, understand?"

    "I know, thatбпs how they do it in Shenmu City too."

    Lin Jiang nodded, cultivators need a variety of resources, if one ce doesnбпt have everything, they need to trade and exchange different resources, and heбпs the one who manages the front."Okay, Iбпll leave this matter to you. The Lin family wonбпt treat you unfairly, youбпll have one percent of the Lin familyбпs benefits all to yourself."

    "Master, isnбпt this not good?"

    "Thatбпs it then. If you have time, help me speak some good words. The rtionship between the father and daughter is strained now, sigh."

    "Master, donбпt worry. Third Auntie will understand."

    "And thereбпs Old Ten, sheбпs even more stubborn, sigh."

    Lin Batian sighed, both little jackets were drafty, he was really worried.

    Lin Jiang was speechless for a moment, the little jackets being drafty were caused by himself. Youбпre already hundreds of years old, and you still bring women home. Itбпs not surprising that the house is in chaos.

    Lin Jiang immediately agreed on the surface, but in his heart, he had made up his mind. He knew he had to learn the scheming tactics from Lin Die in order to stand a chance against Xiao Lingyue. Women who grew up in ces filled with other women seemed to be born with these scheming skills.

    Two dayster, Lin Batian left after leaving some money behind. Lin Jiang also found someone to rent arge shop and residence. Spirit stones were flowing out quickly.

    Lin Jiang himself was very busy. He knew that in order to build a sessful business in a new ce, he would have to deal with all kinds of obstacles. So, during this period of time, the most important thing for Lin Jiang was to treat others to meals.

    Of course, it wasnбпt done for nothing. Lin Jiang never wasted his money. He first targeted Tianxuan Sect for help, and then he invited Zhou Huaiying to multiple meals, intentionally letting the disciples of Tianxuan Sect see. This quickly resolved most of the problems.

    After one month, thepanyбпs renovation was almostplete. Lin Dongyan and others also arrived. Now Lin Jiang was the white glove of the Lin family, so thepany had to berge. It needed the support of high-tech personnel. These kinds of high-tech personnel couldnбпt be hired from outside, they had to be cultivated on their own.

    Another half a month passed, and thepany officially opened. Business was just average, not too good nor too bad. However, Lin Jiang was not in a rush. He knew that the foundation was there and he could slowly build it up.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    North State, Xiaotian City

    With the arrival of You Statepany, led by Tianxuan Sect, Xiaotian City quickly prospered. The city was notpletely built yet, but that didnбпt hinder its prosperity.

    "This is one of the special products from North State called Cold Ice Stone. Although it may seem like the lowest grade Cold Ice Stone, it can be sold for twenty thousand spirit stones in the central city. In this ce, the tradingpany collects it from those Human Demon viges for only one thousand jin of spiritual paddy, and even the lowest quality ones can be sold for less than two spirit stones, making a profit of tens of thousands of times."

    Lin Chaosheng showed Lin Batian a mineral and exined to him the tricks of trade in North State.

    "How much tax do we collect for such a big price difference?"

    "One thousand spirit stones. Those tradingpanies, along with various other expenses, wonбпt exceed three thousand spirit stones, yet they make terrifying profits."

    "How did they prevent the Human Demon n from selling directly in the central city before?"

    "Anyone who leaves North State will be killed, and their entire n will be wiped out. A few hundred groups of thieves have monopolized the entire North State road. They canбпt escape, and the Human Demon n is easily distinguishable. The tradingpanies in the central city donбпt allow direct trade with them. They have no other option but to trade with the tradingpanies. Lord, the profits here are truly frightening. I have never seen such a business."

    "Indeed, North State, which is deste for thousands of miles, is filled with wealth. What else does North State have?"

    "A lot. There are dozens of types of Cold Ice Stone alone. There is also a type of spiritual fire, the Icy me, which is extremely rare. It canбпt even be bought for several million spirit stones outside, but here, you can get it for just a few thousand spirit stones. However, this kind of spiritual fire is very rare. It can hardly be seen even once in several decades. The Human Demon Tribes had to sacrifice many lives to obtain one."

    "How powerful is the Human Demon Tribe?"

    Without strong experts, the overall strength of the tribe is between golden core and Nascent Soul. But there are hardly any experts above Soul Changing. If a tribe with such strength appears, the merchants and thieves will attack it with all their might and eliminate it. Now that the thieves have been almost wiped out by our strikes, it is our responsibility to ensure that the Human Demon Tribe doesnбпt produce any experts.

    Master, in the past, the merchants would venture deep into the far north to acquire things and also keep an eye on them. But now, the trading locations are all in Xiaotian City. We must also monitor them.

    "I have already arranged this. Tian Li and Wei Dao will lead a team to patrol the entire North State. They will not onlybat other thieves but also monitor the Human Demon Tribe. They will also prevent smuggling and prohibit the merchants from crossing the Xiaotian City boundary."

    Lin Batian said. In fact, they have reced all the previous thieves. They do exactly what the thieves used to do, but they are even more domineering and arrogant.

    "Master, I still suggest that we interfere in the merchantsбп affairs. It would be such a waste to let all those profits go to the merchants from You State."

    "Enough, remember, we only earn the money that belongs to us."

    Lin Batian shook his head. He couldnбпt help but be tempted by the huge profits, but he was rational. The reason they were able to stand firm in the North State was the result ofpromise with the forces from You State. They madepromises with each other.

    Once they break the rules and try to monopolize the benefits, the forces from You State will not be polite and will immediately turn against them. Lin Batian and his group wouldnбпt stand a chance against the forces from You State anymore.

    "Yes, Master."

    Lin Chaosheng sighed, he knew this truth all too well. It was just too tempting and he couldnбпt resist.

    "Just wait, North State will be the ce where my Lin family rises. In no more than ten years, I will bring you all kinds of treasures, and you will all have advanced."

    Lin Batian nodded, he could already see the future of North State. As long as they managed for three to five years, the Lin family would be prosperous again, and their strength would need to increase once more.

    Lin Chaosheng also hoped for this. After all the years of struggle for the Lin family, their strength had weakened inparison to Yun State. Now it was time for them to soar.

    "Lin Lang"

    Before long, Xiao Lingyue floated over. Lin Chaosheng nced at her and quickly left. Not many members of the Lin family liked her, but since Lin Batian did, there was nothing they could do.

    "Yueбпer, whatбпs the matter?"

    "Lin Lang, my cultivation speed is getting slower and slower. Yueбпer is very worried. If my cultivation doesnбпt improve quickly, I wonбпt be able to help you in the future. Iбпve heard that there are many powerful evil cultivators hidden in North State."

    "Itбпs simple, letбпs go and cultivate together."

    "Lin Lang, please stop misbehaving. If dual cultivation happens too frequently, it can be harmful to the body, and the results will be less effective."

    "Youбпre right, you donбпtck in cultivation techniques, just in resources. Donбпt worry, Iбпll take care of your resources."

    "Lin Lang, Yueбпer feels bad about always relying on your money. Yueбпer is not a delicate flower kept hidden away. Yueбпer wants to earn money for herself and share some of the burden with the Lin family."

    "Yueбпer is really considerate, but Xiaotian City is still in its early stages and everything is chaotic. If you take over, it will definitely be exhausting. I canбпt bear to see that. How about this? Iбпll give you thirty shops in Xiaotian City. If you want to do something, you can open a small store and pass the time. If you donбпt want to work, you can just collect rent."

    Lin Batian said, he really didnбпt dare to bring this up. If Xiao Lingyue gained real power, it would be difficult to bring her back. He could only try to deceive and appease her for now.

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 Chapter 278:

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    Xiaotian City, located in North State

    In the blink of an eye, Lin family has already established themselves in North State for five years. During these five years, all the bandits in North State, especially those at the Soul Changing level, have been killed or injured.

    Thereбпs no need to worry about those below the Soul Changing level, but the Lin family hasnбпt let them go. They have been continuously hunting them down.

    "Landlord, this is this yearбпs ount book."

    On that day, Lin Jiang came from Xuanmiao City to Xiaotian City to report to Lin Batian.

    "Just give a simple exnation."

    "Yes, this year Xuanmiao City received supplies from Xiaotian Cityбн"

    Lin Jiang exined in great detail that 80% of the Lin familyбпs goods in Xuanmiao City came from Xiaotian City, while only 20% were purchased in Xuanmiao City.Among all the goods, there were various materials from North State, including minerals, materials from mythical beasts, rare spiritual herbs, and so on. More than half of the goods were processed and sold by Lin Dongyan and others, refined into pills, formations, spiritual talismans, magic tools, robes, and other items. The rest were sold directly as raw materials.

    Except for a small portion kept in the form of spirit stones, all the profits were converted into resources for their cultivation and distributed to the descendants of the Lin family, especially those hidden in ces like Zhongzhou and Bing State. The descendants of the Lin family in those ces had very few financial resources and relied entirely on the support from the n.

    Due to theplexity of dealing with various raw materials, Lin Jiang couldnбпt urately calcte how much money was earned in a year. He could only estimate it to be around one hundred million. ording to the agreement with Lin Batian, Lin Jiang could take 10% of all the profits, which amounted to ten million per year. This sudden wealth made Lin Jiang rich overnight, even Small Shadiao benefited from it. He could now consume six bottles of Beast Spirit Pill in a year.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt find this money troublesome. He took care of everything in Xuanmiao City, and there were variousplicated matters to attend to, including both legal and shady affairs. It was extremely dangerous.

    Apany makes a lot of money, but no one knows the exact amount. But they can estimate that thepany takes action about ten times a year. Lin Jiang is very careful and doesnбпt get tempted by the traps. He has avoided a lot of danger, otherwise he would have been taken advantage of. Not everyone can be as smart as him.

    "Okay, this year is better thanst year."

    Lin Batian nodded after hearing this. Combining the ie from Xuanmiao City and Xiaotian City, the Lin family earns over three hundred million every year. And thatбпs only the official ie. He hasnбпt even taken into ount the money obtained through bribery and corruption by his subordinates. After these four to five years of operation, the Lin familyбпs wealth is abundant once again.

    "All thanks to the wise leadership of the family head."

    "Donбпt tter me. You should focus on improving your cultivation. Who knows, maybe I can help you obtain a valuable treasure that helps you in your cultivation."

    "Family head, is there any news about the treasure?"

    "A little. I will leave Xiaotian City next month."

    Lin Batian nodded. After umting his wealth for four to five years, he also needs to n for the future of the familyбпs descendants.

    "Never mind, Iбпm not in a hurry."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, he still had a long way to go to reach thete stage of the golden core. Buying treasures wouldnбпt help, it might even be a waste. He decided to wait for the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit from the Five Elements Sect first.

    "As you wish, you go rest first."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang quickly left, but he didnбпt stay in Xiaotian City.

    Although Xiaotian City is a cultivation city, it actually has a small poption. Aside from the tens of thousands of bandits recruited by the Lin family and the merchants from the You State, there arenбпt many outsiders. Independent cultivators and the like are not wee in Xiaotian City, itбпs basically just a transit point. If you want entertainment, itбпs better to go to Xuanmiao City.

    "Letбпs go, Iбпll find a little bird for you."

    Lin Jiang patted Small Shadiaoбпs shoulder and said to him.

    "I donбпt want it, Iбпm a serious person."

    Small Shadiao rolled his eyes directly. Human fairies are so gentle and understanding, knowing lots of things. Whatбпs so great about a little bird?

    "Stop talking, show your true form, and quietly take me to the northernmost ce."

    "You want to ride me again, but youбпre my dad!"

    "If you keep talking nonsense, Iбпll strip you of your fur!"

    Lin Jiang became very angry. Small Shadiao was getting more and more arrogant. If his master couldnбпt even ride him, then what kind of beast pet was he? He wasnбпt going to take this from anyone.

    Small Shadiao was on the verge of tears. He just wanted to ride people, not be ridden by them!

    However, he had no choice but to follow orders. He secretly took out his diary and wrote about todayбпs humiliation. He also made a big cross symbol, each stroke representing his endurance of his masterбпs abuse. He nned to find an opportunity to ride back someday.

    Leaving Xiaotian City and heading north, after traveling about five hundred miles, the scenery became a frozen world of ice and snow. The further north they went, the colder it became. It was snowy and icy all year round here.

    "Whoбпs there?"

    Not long after, a loud howl echoed, and Lin Jiang was quickly surrounded by people.

    "I am one of us."

    "Brother Xiao, put it away. Are you blind?"

    Lin Jiang presented a token, and the other person quickly recognized Lin Jiangбпs identity.

    "Brother Xiao, why are you here?"

    "I havenбпt seen the Human Demon Tribe before, so I came to have a look."

    "Whatбпs so interesting about those Human Demons?"

    "You guys are tired of seeing them, but I havenбпt seen them yet."

    "If Brother Xiao wants to have a good time, whye here? Xiaotian City has many, countless tail-wearing girls."

    The person said with a lewd expression. At least thirty percent of the Human Demons in North State are from the human race. Sometimes, if the Human Demon Tribe cannot pay tribute, they will use their women to settle the debt, and they will end up in Xiaotian City.

    "No need to talk about this, are there a lot of smugglers recently?"

    "Yes, when did it ever be less? The Human Demon Tribe always has fearless young people, as well as independent cultivators from ces like the You State. No matter how they are warned, they are not afraid. Itбпs really annoying."

    "What does it matter if we die for our own benefit?"

    Lin Jiang nodded. The North State is known for its huge profits, and itбпs no secret. Many peoplee here to seek adventure. In the past, these people were killed by the bandits, who never gave them a chance to seed. Now, itбпs the Xiaotian City that kills them.

    There are also some people from the Human Demon Tribe who are unhappy about being exploited by the people of Xiaotian City. They want to secretly trade in the You State or even farther away. Once they are discovered, they are killed mercilessly. It can be said that every piece of spirit stone earned by the Lin family in recent years is stained with guilty blood.

    But the spirit stones of others are not cleaner than those of the Lin family. No one should mock each other. The Holy Mother cannot live long in the North State.

    "Thatбпs true. Then I wonбпt disturb Brother Xiao anymore. Brother Xiao, continue advancing for about two thousand miles. Itбпs not advisable to go further. The deeper areas are ces we canбпt venture into. The Human Demon Tribe there is extremely ferocious, and not even Nascent Soul cultivators dare to easily go deep in."

    "Alright, you guys also inform the patrol team behind. Donбпt stop me, itбпs a waste of time."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The bandits surrendered by Xiaotian City have been divided into hundreds of patrol teams, wandering all over the North State day and night. Lin Jiang has already encountered many of them on the way.

    Lin Jiang said goodbye to the patrol team and continued on because Small Shadiaoбпs size meant that the following patrol team wouldnбпt bother him anymore.

    After traveling thousands of miles, Lin Jiangбпspass suddenly lit up. He quickly found Lin Die following thepass disy.

    "Auntie Three"

    "You finally arrived, Iбпve been waiting for a long time."

    "Ah, I was busy, but I got everything."

    Lin Jiang exined casually, then took something out of the storage bag and handed it to Lin Die for inspection.

    "Yes, the items are correct."

    "Auntie Three gave instructions, how could it be wrong? Auntie Three, will we really be able to get the Extreme Cold Blue me this time?"

    "Just follow along."

    Lin Die didnбпt say much and took Lin Jiang into an ice cave. Inside the cave was very cold water. Even Lin Jiang, with his golden core, could hardly bear the chill. He had to use his spiritual power to keep from freezing.

    Following Lin Die, they dived underwater for an hour before resurfacing in an underground cavern. In the cavern, there were several blue mes floating around.

    "Canбпt go on."

    Lin Jiang eximed and quickly stuffed a pill in his mouth. Fire spewed from his nostrils, relieving some difort. On the other hand, Small Shadiao, didnбпt think much of it. Monsters have thick skin and he couldnбпt envy it.

    "Look, these are the Extreme Cold Blue mes. They are extremely rare and canбпt be bought outside. But here, there are dozens of them and even more inside."

    "Third Auntie, we donбпt have enough jade boxes."

    "No worries, we cane backter."

    Lin Die said that the Extreme Cold Blue me was a treasure of the North State, with unparalleled value. Lin Die unexpectedly found it here and decided to keep it for herself. If it was turned over to the n, the one who would benefit the most would be Xiao Lingyue with her ice Spiritual Root. Lin Die didnбпt want to see that happen.

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded eagerly and looked greedily at the Extreme Cold Blue me in front of him. This blue me looked like fire, but it was actually something extremely cold. For the ice Spiritual Root, this was the ultimate treasure.

    "You stay back, Iбпll collect these things."

    Lin Die asked Lin Jiang to step forward and then wrapped the Extreme Cold Blue me with powerful spiritual energy, cing it into a jade box and quickly sealing it.

    This thing can only be contained in a special jade box. Ordinary jade boxes or even treasures are useless and will be instantly frozen and possibly freeze the user to death. Thatбпs why Lin Jiang had to go to Xuanmiao City to have it made. This kind of jade box is worth millions of spirit stones.

    "There are a total of seven. Iбпll give you two, okay?"

    "Okay, Third Auntie. Itбпs fine even if you donбпt give them to me."

    Without hesitation, Lin Jiang stuffed them into his storage bag, but still had a sheepish expression as he spoke.

    "Third Auntie, Third Auntie."

    Small Shadiao also immediately started acting spoiled. It wanted a share too. Donбпt forget about it.

    "Lin Cong, you donбпt need it, go back and ask Lin Wu for two bottles of Beast Spirit Pill."

    "Auntie Threeбн"

    "Five bottles."

    "Auntie Three."

    "Alright, letбпs stop here."

    Lin Jiang directly restrained Small Shadiao. Donбпt take advantage, just a little benefit is enough, making Small Shadiao furious, with even more strokes needed.

    "Letбпs go."

    Lin Die acted decisively, once she got something good, she immediately left.

    They returned to the surface, but didnбпt go far when Lin Jiang and the others sensed a surge of spiritual awarenessing.

    "Itбпs the Human Demon Tribe, and that ce is their sacrednd."

    "Will they fight?"

    "What do you think?"

    "Ah."

    "You go first, remember, donбпt stop. Iбпll go meet them."

    Lin Die said, Lin Jiang nodded, and urged Small Shadiao to run faster. It was time for him to show his speed.

    "Leave our sacred object."

    Lin Die couldnбпt stop everyone, and soon someone appeared in front of Lin Jiang.

    "Small Shadiao, speed up as much as you can, so they canбпt see your tail."

    "No problem"

    Small Shadiao saw that the enemy chasing him was very powerful, so he didnбпt dare to stay and fight. He quickly pped hisrge wings and disappeared. The chasing soldiers behind him were so angry that they stomped their feet.

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 Chapter 279:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian City

    Lin Jiang waited for Lin Die to return in Xiaotian City and finally rxed.

    "Third Auntie, what happened?"

    "Itбпs fine, I sessfully repelled them."

    "What kind of powerful tribe is that Human Demon Tribe? I think I saw several Nascent Soul-level guys."

    "Thatбпs not the Human Demon Tribe, but a pure demon n called Snow Demon."

    Lin Die shook her head. There are also supernatural beings in North State, pure supernatural beings, most of which are rted to ice and snow.

    "I donбпt think Iбпve heard of that before.""The Snow Demon n is located in the deepest part of the extreme north. They are born supernatural beings who feed on ice and snow. They donбпt need the food of our human n, so they havenбпt traded with Xiaotian City. Itбпs normal for you to not have heard of them."

    "Will this powerful n have any impact on us?"

    "No, the Snow Demon n prefers the icy and snowy environment. They wonбпt go beyond the snow line. Enough about that. I will leave Xiaotian City in a few days to exchange for the Soul Changing Treasure. You should also leave soon."

    Lin Die said she had nned for a long time to obtain the Extreme Cold Blue me, and finally got it. Now she can start breaking through the Soul Changing process.

    "Third Auntie, it seems that this Extreme Cold Blue me is not enough to exchange for the Soul Changing Treasure. Shall I support you a little more?"

    "Keep your money for yourself."

    "Third Auntie, you underestimate my wealth."

    "Looks like youбпve made quite a bit in these years."

    Lin Die seemed different, can a little nephew like him make so much money?

    "Third Auntie, just a small token of my appreciation."

    Lin Jiang took out precious items from the storage bag, these are all good things he normally trades for.

    Lin Jiangбпs ie is not just a share of the Lin familyбпs profits, he also owns businesses in Xuanmiao City. After deducting the portion he cooperates with the Lin family, the remaining profit is his own. Lin Dongyan and his group still work for him, our old Lin is a proper capitalist.

    "Thank you, Iбпll return the favor in the future."

    "Weбпre all family, Third Auntie, no need to be polite."

    "I donбпt know how long Iбпll be away this time. Can you keep an eye out? Watch the four major sects externally and keep an eye on Xiao Lingyue internally."

    "Third Auntie seems to always have doubts about Xiao Lingyueбпs dharma body."

    "Unless she gives birth to a child for the Lin family, nobody in the Lin family will believe her."

    Lin Jiang heard the words and shook his head gently. Xiao Lingyue has already reached the advanced level of Soul Changing cultivation, so it is extremely difficult for her to have a child. It would greatly affect her, wasting decades of time at the very least. It is normal for her cultivation to decline significantly. Xiao Lingyue would not agree to it.

    "Over the years, Xiao Lingyue has also earned quite a bit of money and has started showing kindness to some of the Lin family descendants. Donбпt let him deceive you."

    "Donбпt worry, Third Auntie. I understand."

    Lin Jiang nodded as Lin Die said this. What else could he do? He would just keep an eye on the situation.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Nice to meet you, Auntie."

    Just as Lin Jiang was preparing to return to Xuanmiao City, Xiao Lingyue sent someone to fetch him. Lin Jiang went to meet her.

    "How should I address you, Xiao Yi or Lin Wu?"

    "Auntie can decide freely, the name is just a code."

    "Then letбпs call you Lin Wu, it sounds friendly since weбпre family."

    "Yes, Auntie called for Lin Wu, is there something you need?"

    "I have some things that I canбпt sell in Xiaotian City, I was wondering if I could ask you to sell them in Xuanmiao City."

    "I wonder what Auntie wants to sell."

    "Itбпs just some misceneous things, like mythological creatures and such."

    "Then there shouldnбпt be a problem."

    Lin Jiang said, he didnбпt want to refuse directly, and it wouldnбпt hurt to sell them as well.

    "Thank you so much."

    Xiao Lingyue handed over a bag for storing things and some bags for magical creatures. The bags for magical creatures had live monsters inside.

    Lin Jiang scanned with his spiritual senses and said. Is it a Snow Demon?

    "Yes, Snow Demon. Snow Demons are very popr in the central region and their prices are extremely high."

    "Yes, Auntie, I know what to do now."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Snow Demons have a strong effect on cultivators with ice-based powers, but they can also be kept as pets for wealthy people to admire, not just for practical use.

    After a brief chat, Lin Jiang left and returned to his ce. He released the Snow Demon. Snow Demons are born in human form, like beautiful fairies. Despite their beauty, the Snow Demon in front of him looked terrified, curled up in a corner and watching Lin Jiang.

    "Dad, why did you capture such a strange creature?"

    Small Shadiao saw the Snow Demon and instantly became captivated. What a beautifuldy.

    "You blind fool, when have you ever seen me capture a Snow Demon?"

    "So did the Snow Demon fall from the sky?"

    "Xiao Lingyue caught it and asked me to help sell it."

    "Huh."

    "I donбпt really want to sell it, it looks just like a person."

    "I think it looks like a person too. Arenбпt you always bullying me?"

    Small Shadiao pouted, he didnбпt believe it. After all, he knew his owner well.

    "I feel a bit guilty."

    Lin Jiang spoke frankly, this was his dilemma. Lin Jiang felt conflicted about his own behavior, even though he had done bad things, he still wanted to set a moral boundary for himself.

    Small Shadiao rolled its eyes even more when it heard that. It didnбпt believe that he had even a bit of guilt.

    "Never mind, letбпs bring it back to Xuanmiao City first and then decide."

    Lin Jiang shook his head, not worrying about it anymore. He decided to bring it back to Xuanmiao City first and then make a decision.

    The next day, Lin Jiang and Small Shadiao set off and returned to Xuanmiao City in You State. Small Shadiao was extremely fast, and they reached Xuanmiao City on the same day.

    "Master"

    "Greetings, master"

    They entered the shop, and arge group of people bowed to Lin Jiang. Their shop in Xuanmiao City was of considerable size, with nearly three hundred people working under them, most of whom were descendants of the Lin family.

    "During my absence, has anything happened?"

    "Reporting to the master, nothing major has happened, everything remains the same."

    "Alright, then thereбпs nothing to worry about. You may continue with your tasks."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand to dismiss the crowd.

    Behind the shop is where these people live, and when Lin Jiang returned home, someone jumped in from the next room and said. Boss, you finally came back.

    "Wei Lin, can you please stop jumping over the wall in the future? You always startle me."

    "Oh,e on! Isnбпt that what we always do, boss? When are we going to have some fun at the Zhongmiao Building?"

    "Fun? This time I ran into your father, and he scolded me so much. Fun? Your father almost killed me!"

    Lin Jiang got angry. This Wei Lin is Wei Dao, a Void Achieving cultivator from the Taixu Sectбпs son. He has the Soul Changing power. Lin Batian brought him to Xuanmiao City to protect Lin Jiang and the shop. But this guy is also a troublemaker, always asking Lin Jiang to take him for fun.

    "Thatбпs not right. Itбпs my father who wants me to experience more things and have a broader perspective on life. How can I do that without having some fun?"

    "Forget it! If you want to have fun at Zhongmiao Building, go ahead. But donбпt think itбпs your familyбпs business."

    "Youбпre right. Then, boss, can you help me find a few wives?"

    "Only your father can help you find a wife, I am not your father. If you call me father, I might consider it."

    "Okay, father."

    "Oh my goodness!"

    Lin Jiang was shocked, looking at Wei Lin. He wasnбпt stupid, so what was this darn thing he was doing? What was abnormal about it?

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 Chapter 280:

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    You State, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang originally wanted to brush Wei Lin off with a casual remark, but this guy really had the audacity to ask. It truly shocked Lin Jiang.

    This forced Lin Jiang to reevaluate Wei Lin. This guyбпs intelligence was definitely normal; he couldnбпt achieve Soul Changing if he was an idiot.

    "Stop."

    Lin Jiang nced at Small Shadiao, who was thinking about sneaking away, and immediately shouted.

    "Um, you guys can continue."

    "Come over here."

    "What are you doing, what are you doing, I didnбпt do anything."Small Shadiao got anxious, whatбпs the matter, do they want to bully him again.

    "Wei Lin, Senior Wei, tell me, whatбпs going on?"

    "Nothing much, just thinking about my wife and child, you know, our Taixu Sect is really struggling now, and my father only wants revenge and to restore Taixu Sect. I have to find a way myself."

    "So youбпre Soul Changing, if you open your mouth, you can have as many wives as you want. As for calling me father, if my father finds out, heбпll kill me."

    "Just kidding, weбпre so familiar with each other, you shouldnбпt take this joke so seriously."

    "I canбпt afford it. Your father will really kill me."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. This is truly a filial son. Wei Dao must be wanting to kill him with a sword.

    "My father doesnбпt know either."

    "Come on, whatбпs the matter? Donбпt y games."

    "Thereбпs really nothing important, just bored. If you donбпt believe me, ask my older brother."

    "Wait, older brother, are you talking about Small Shadiao?"

    "Yes, didnбпt you know? Iбпve be sworn brothers with Diaoxiong. Heбпs my older brother now."

    "Can you tell me what youбпre thinking?"

    Lin Jiang suddenly fell silent. He was now sure that this guy was an idiot. He used to pretend, but now he doesnбпt anymore.

    "Wonбпt tell you"

    Wei Linughed loudly and said that he wonбпt tell, it will make you mad, anyway being the little brother wonбпt be a disadvantage.

    Lin Jiang waspletely impressed by his Sixth Brother, so he let him y on his own. Lin Jiang grabbed Small Shadiao and went into the room, saying, "If Wei Lin doesnбпt tell the truth, I canбпt do anything to him. But if you donбпt tell the truth, I will punish you today. Do you believe me?"

    "No, no, no, Iбпll tell."

    "Hurry, tell."

    "Before returning to North State, Wei Lin and I made a bet. I won, so we became sworn brothers. I am the big brother and he is the little brother."

    "What was the bet?"

    "Zhongmiao Building, who could stay there longer."

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang almost fainted, the scene was too scary to imagine.

    "Donбпt be angry, Iбпm actually thinking of you, I want to find a little brother for you, really."

    "I see you donбпt want any fur on you, believe it or not, I will strip all your fur off."

    "Really, I really think so. The head of the family has said it. The fortunes of the four major sects have been drained, and now the most valuable thing is themselves. I will help you recruit him as a little brother, and then he will be our own people."

    "You damn well lower your voice."

    Lin Jiang wished he could cover his mouth. Can this matter be discussed?

    Speaking of which, Lin Batian is really cunning. He tricked the remaining horses of the four major sects and helped him count the money. The secret techniques and martial arts that they inherited have long been emptied by Lin Batian, and he went to Yun State to exchange things. Now he has set his sights on their people. He really wants to take everything from them.

    "Father, I truly have you in my heart."

    "Less nonsense, my affairs donбпt need your concern. Besides, Wei Lin is Soul Changing, I canбпt suppress him. Now he is eating and drinking on my expense. If we really turn against each other, he will easily crush me to death. Donбпt go provoke him."

    In the end, Lin Jiang shook his head. He couldnбпt provoke Wei Lin, who was very powerful. Lin Jiang was only a beginner, so he couldnбпt win against him. It would be like an ant trying to swallow an elephant, which would be foolish.

    "Theyбпre already sworn brothers. Even the money for going to Zhongmiao Building was paid by me. I used all my sry."

    "Thereбпs no need to mention it again. Get lost."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and told Small Shadiao to go away. He deserved it. With his simple thoughts, he was still trying to y tricks with others. It was like a dog chasing its tail, going in circles without getting anywhere.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "What are you doing dawdling at the entrance? Come inside."

    Lin Jiang looked up and said to Small Shadiao outside the door. He just came back from North State and immediately went into seclusion. Being a white glove is a dangerous job, and Lin Jiang canбпt rely on Small Shadiao all the time. So heбпs also improving his own cultivation.

    However, Lin Jiang canбпt stay in seclusion for a long time in Xuanmiao City. Itбпs usually about a month. He has toe out of seclusion to deal with some matters. This time, when Lin Jiang came out of seclusion, he discovered some problems.

    "Dad, I brought you tea."

    Small Shadiao had a big smile on his face, and he magically produced a bowl of tea.

    "Youбпre not going to spit out water, are you, kid?"

    "How is that possible? Am I that kind of person?"

    "You can drink the tea yourself."

    "Cough, cough, Iбпm not thirsty."

    "Did you really spit out water?"

    "No, no, I just donбпt want to drink it."

    "Okay, letбпs talk about something else. How do you exin the Snow Demon incident? Why did you increase the price without permission?"

    Lin Jiang nodded. Xiao Lingyue asked him to sell the Snow Demon, and after finding out the price in Xuanmiao City, Lin Jiang put it up for sale in the shop. But when he went through customs, he realized that the Snow Demon hadnбпt sold. Upon investigation, he discovered that Small Shadiao had increased the price tenfold. Itбпs no wonder it didnбпt sell.

    "Dad, um, umбн"

    "You have ten breaths to organize your words. If you canбпt exin clearly, then donбпt say anything, Iбпll sell you together."

    "Dad, Snow Demon is mine now. Can you please not sell her?"

    "Wait, can you say that again?"

    "Snow Demon is mine now, can you please not sell her?"

    "бдбдбдбдбд"

    Lin Jiang was immediately silenced, then he extended his hand to ask Small Shadiao toe closer.

    "You terrible thing, you terrible thingбн"

    Lin Jiang pressed Small Shadiao to the ground and rubbed him for a while, almost making Lin Jiang so angry that he would spit up blood. Itбпs only been a month, and you already caused trouble for someone?

    "Dad, please calm down and take a rest before hitting again?"

    Small Shadiao is tough and not afraid of being beaten at all, so he shamelessly said to Lin Jiang.

    "Whatбпs going on? Exin clearly."

    "Just like that, we hit it off."

    "What do you mean by боhit it offбп?"

    "Dad, youбпre not around most of the time, so I take care of Snow Demonбпs food and drinks. Over time, we developed a bond."

    "I think youбпre just attracted by her appearance. I checked and found that as soon as I meditated, you changed the price."

    "No, no, definitely not."

    "You have to understand that Snow Demon is not mine. If I keep her, I have to use my own money to cover the expenses."

    "Dad, can I use my sry to make up for it? I wonбпt eat the Beast Spirit Pill anymore, okay?"

    "How much is your sry? How long will it take for you to bnce the ounts?"

    "Include my little brotherбпs sry too."

    "Little brother?"

    "Oh, Wei Lin."

    "Hehe."

    Lin Jiang sneered. Does Wei Lin know about this? Arenбпt you afraid heбпll beat you up? You canбпt fight back.

    "Really, Iбпve talked to him about it, and he agreed. Wei Lin, Wei Lin,e in quickly."

    Small Shadiao immediately said, and then Wei Lin walked in from outside.

    "Master, Lin Cong brother is right, take my money, itбпs not bad to let Lin Cong brother marry a beautifuldy."

    "Wei Lin, have you thought about it? The Snow Demon in the shopбпs price is five million spirit stones. We donбпt have to pay taxes or anything because we are insiders. Letбпs consider it as five million spirit stones. Your sry is half a million spirit stones per year, itбпs impossible to deduct it all. Letбпs deduct half and spread it over ten years. During these ten years, you wonбпt even be able to ensure your basic practice."

    Lin Jiang said that the sry he gave to Lin Kai is very low. Five hundred thousand spirit stones cannot even hire a Nascent Soul outside. But thereбпs no way, he is just like that. The cooperation between the four major sects and the Lin family cannot be measured simply by spirit stones.

    "Itбпs okay, ten years is just ten years. After all, there are still hundreds of thousands of spirit stones."

    "Small Shadiao, your sry is too low, it needs to be deducted for thirty years. And with the previous amount you owe me, well, you wonбпt be able to pay it off in your lifetime."

    "It doesnбпt matter, I am the masterбпs person in life and the masterбпs ghost in death."

    Small Shadiao waved his big hand, he already understood. When encountering a master like this, when will he be able to repay the debt? So, itбпs okay to owe more debts.

    "You can leave now, I donбпt want to see you."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and the two of them walked away with their arms around each other, they seemed very happy.

    After a while, Lin Jiang sighed and couldnбпt help but stand up to check on Snow Demon. Snow Demon was not bound, but had restrictions inside its body. It couldnбпt run away. When it saw Lin Jiang, it was very scared and avoided eye contact, too afraid to look at him.

    Lin Jiang asked a few questions, but didnбпt get any useful information. He didnбпt bother and in the evening, Small Shadiao even arranged a simple wedding feast, leaving Lin Jiang speechless.

    "Master, give Snow Demon a name to show support for my big brother. Give him some face, please."

    "Letбпs call her Snow Woman from now on."

    Lin Jiang casually said. He was not good at naming things, as long as it didnбпt sound unpleasant, it would be fine.

    "Snow Woman, sounds great. Master is truly talented."

    "ttery wonбпt work on me, you poor guy."

    Lin Jiang shook his head. ttery would still cost him money, but Wei Lin didnбпt mind and justughed.

    Small Shadiao was thrilled. Lin Jiang suddenly realized that even his beast pet managed to find a mate, while he remained single. It was so unfair.

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 Chapter 281:

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    North State, the far northernnd

    A group of people on horseback were fleeing in panic, with dozens of cultivators behind them emitting strange cries. These cultivators seemed unconcerned, only continuously making strange noises to intimidate the fleeing people. asionally, when someone was left behind, they would swarm over and kill them.

    "Plop"

    All of a sudden, the person running at the front seemed to have hit ayer of water, making a light sound, and their figure disappeared. The people behind, focused on running for their lives, didnбпt notice that one by one, they were disappearing.

    However, the pursuers did see it and quickly stopped. One of them said. Boss, whatбпs going on? Why are people disappearing?

    "Thereбпs no response from my divine sense, undoubtedly, itбпs a formation. Strange, weбпre already in the far northernnd. Itбпs either the demon race or the Human Demon n. How could they have a formation?"

    The leader said. The Human Demon n has been suppressed miserably. They basically donбпt have any high-level immortal path inheritance. Pills, talismans, items, and formations arepletely foreign to them, or at a very low level. This doesnбпt seem like something they could have caused.

    "Boss, what should we do?""Go and check, these people must all be killed, otherwise the City Lord will me me, and I canбпt bear the consequences."

    The leader said, they were originally a group of thieves from North State, but now they are members of Xiaotian City. Xiaotian City has strict rules for them, reward for aplishments and severe punishment for mistakes. There is no room for favoritism, because everything is done fairly, and no one has anyints.

    The group of people who disappeared just now were from a tribe called Human Demon Tribe. They secretly bypassed the patrol route of Xiaotian City and traded with some independent cultivators in a small market. However, they were eventually discovered. In order to deter other viges, Xiaotian City must punish them severely, otherwise other viges will not trade with Xiaotian City obediently.

    The group continued to move forward cautiously. Soon, they crossed a barrier that resembled a surface of water. As they entered the barrier, a warm breath rushed towards them, like entering a different world from the icy outside. ????жн??жв?S

    However, what they saw was a scene full of the sound of birds and the fragrance of flowers. But instead of feeling joyous, everyoneбпs mood sank to the bottom, and they even dared not to move forward.

    "Our divine senses couldnбпt detect anything. Itбпs as if those people disappeared into thin air. Letбпs retreat, this is beyond our abilities to handle."

    The leader said in a deep voice, setting up a barrier using formation was not anything special, but it was different in North State. It was because North State was extremely barren and had very few spiritual veins. They knew all the existing spiritual veins, but this ce was not within their awareness. They instinctively sensed danger.

    Everyone quickly turned around and prepared to leave, but even though the barrier was right in front of them, they couldnбпt fly through it. It was like hitting a wall, unable to fly outside the barrier no matter what.

    "What is that?"

    Just when everyone was panicked, a red cloud suddenly flew over from far away, causing everyoneбпs faces to change drastically.

    The leader summoned a flying sword, but the sword went through the red cloud without stopping it from approaching. Immediately, everyone began casting spells and using fire magic.

    "Effective!"

    As the fire burned, the red cloud started shrinking. Everyone was overjoyed, and some people used a lot of spiritual talismans to quickly dry up the red cloud.

    However, their happiness didnбпtst long because another, evenrger, red cloud appeared. Before they could stop it, they were swept away by the red cloud.

    "Blood, itбпs the Blood Worms. Theyбпre sucking our blood."

    "Quick, letбпs go!"

    "Run out!"

    The group of people shouted in terror, but theyers of red cloud had already surrounded them.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    North State иC a ce in the far north

    A flying boatnded, and Lin Chaosheng and the others walked out of the boat. What came into view was a sea of crimson, with blood and body parts everywhere.

    "They are our people."

    "Exactly, they are our people. Judging by their appearance, it doesnбпt seem like they were killed by monsters, but rather dismembered by a sharp weapon. The cuts are clean."

    "Even their precious treasures were sliced to pieces. The culprit is no less than a powerful Nascent Soul cultivator."

    A group of people quickly examined the severed body parts on the ground and reached a preliminary conclusion that these people from Xiaotian City were killed by skilled individuals.

    "Uncle, what should we do? Starting from this month, the losses of manpower and horses in Xiaotian City have been severe. We have one unsolved case after another."

    Someone asked, ever since Xiaotian City was founded, there has never been peace, and deaths ur almost every day.

    However, the previous incidents were all well-documented. Either they were retaliations from the old bandits, or they were the rebellions of the evil North State or the Human Demon n.

    But starting this month, they have already lost several teams of patrol troops, and the key is that they cannot find the culprit. Itбпs like a series of unsolved cases. Now, Xiaotian City is furious and has sent multiple teams to investigate.

    "Most likely it was done by some evil cultivators. We will definitely find out."

    Lin Chaoshengбпs face turned gloomy. Xiaotian City is thergest stronghold of evil sects. However, Lin Batian has already cleaned it up. They are determined to eliminate those who enjoy killing or practice killing.

    This has caused some evil sects to join Xiaotian City and then leave again, wandering in North State. Lin Chaosheng thinks itбпs these people who are responsible.

    "Uncle, send out the distress signal."

    Suddenly, someone beside him said, holding a token that was glowing at the moment.

    "Letбпs go and rescue them."

    As soon as Lin Chaosheng saw it, he immediately signaled everyone to fly onto the flying ship and swiftly followed the guidance of the token.

    After traveling for thousands of miles, Lin Chaosheng and the others saw a group of patrolling soldiers, who were huddled together back to back. In front of them, there was a person dressed in a ck robe, slowly approaching. This person was covered in blood, appearing as if possessed.

    "Run, sir! Itбпs Killing Demon Su Chang."

    Some of the patrolling soldiers eximed in fear, causing Lin Chaosheng and the others to immediately stop their flying boat.

    "It was also done by Killing Demon Su Chang."

    "Retreat!"

    "Thereбпs no time, form a defensive formation!"

    While they were talking, the person in the ck robe had already reached the front of the flying boat. They swung their sword, causing the boat to shatter. Lin Chaosheng and the others quickly scattered.

    "Ah!"

    However, someone was still hit and let out a scream. The person in the ck robe captured the injured individual and used their spiritual power to suppress their abilities. They fell to the ground.

    "Shout, shout quickly."

    The person in the ck robe looked at the injured person and softly called out.

    "Donбпt shout, Killing Demon Su Chang loves torturing and killing others. The more you shout, the more excited he gets."

    Someone reminded, but before they could finish speaking, the person in the ck robe turned around and shed with a knife, directly killing them even though they tried to resist with all their might.

    Lin Chaosheng took a deep breath, exchanged nces with several Lin family disciples, and then they all simultaneously released dozens of Sound Passing Talismans, seeking help together.

    "Senior Su, these are all people from Xiaotian City. Please spare them."

    Lin Chaosheng said with a brave face, Killing Demon Su Chang was someone he had heard of before, a deranged killer who used to be active in North State. He loved torturing cultivators and the more agonizing their screams before death, the more excited he became. It was said that this could stimte his cultivation.

    Although North State was a gathering ce for thieves and evil cultivators, they couldnбпt tolerate someone like him. Many years ago, they had joined forces to kill him, but somehow he still survived.

    "What is Xiaotian City?"

    "Senior, in Xiaotian City, there are several powerful Void Achievers guarding. Please think carefully, senior."

    "I have no father, no mother, no wife, no children, no siblings. I am all alone. So what if someone achieves Void attainment?"

    The person in the ck robe smiled and said, he had achieved true invulnerability. With no one to worry about, he would kill people and then run away, finding a random ce to hide. What could anyone do to him?

    Lin Chaosheng was at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond. Dealing with someone who had no family orpanions, the usual methods were not very effective.

    "Everyone scatter and break through. Whoever can run away, run away."

    Lin Chaosheng whispered to the people around him, then he took out several magical talismans. He was the first one to rush out, and the others quickly followed, trying to escape.

    The person in the ck robe chuckled. He only used his magic to catch a few unlucky ones, then left the area. As for the others, he didnбпt care. He had already killed enough today. Leaving a few for tomorrow was like hunting иC killing all the prey at once would be boring. It had to be done gradually.

    After a moment, a figure descended, but all that could be seen was bloodstains everywhere. Killing Demon Su Chang had long gone without a trace. He tried to use magic to search, but there were no clues. He could only leave with resentment.

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 Chapter 282:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian City

    Lin Batian is not here, Lin Die is not here, Lin Ying is also not here, and the other members of the Lin family donбпt have enough power to control the situation. Lin Chaosheng can only invite Xiao Lingyue to take charge.

    "My husband is not here, so I will lead the meeting today. Anyone opposed?"

    Xiao Lingyue sat in the middle and spoke to everyone. Tian Li and Wei Dao donбпt oppose. Lin Batian is not dead, he just temporarily left. There is no need to argue over temporary emotions.

    "Alright, since no one objects, Lin Chaosheng, please exin the situation."

    "Yes, starting from this month, there have been several tragic incidents in North State. Nearly a hundred people from Xiaotian City have died, all of them idents. Initially, it was a mystery, and we couldnбпt even find the culprit.

    After our investigation, we have now confirmed that one of the culprits is the notorious Killing Demon Su Chang. Su Chang was once a well-known viin in North State, who took pleasure in killing, especially in a cruel manner. There were rumors that North State Bandits had joined forces to eradicate him, but now we know those rumors were false.

    Thest time Su Chang disappeared, he had reached thete stage of the Nascent Soul level. Now that he has reappeared, my cultivation is too low to determine his current level. We must be prepared, as Su Chang may have undergone a Soul Changing.Apart from Su Chang, two teams of people died in the far north of North State, about thirty to forty thousand miles away from Xiaotian City. It is the core area of the Monster n and the Human Demon Tribe.

    Besides, we sent people to ask the Human Demon Tribe. Within three months, three people from a tribe of nearly a thousand disappeared, disappearedpletelyбн

    Lin Chaosheng slowly said that the incidents were not just one, but a series, which made Xiaotian City exhausted. Currently, apart from Su Chang, there are no other clues.

    "Except for Su Chang, the rest are still unsolved cases, right?"

    "Yes."

    "Then keep investigating. As for Su Chang, Taoist Friend Wei and Taoist Friend Tian, please you to take care of it."

    "At most itбпs just a Soul Changing. As for us taking actionбн"

    Wei Dao felt a little unhappy, thinking that Xiao Lingyue was making a big deal out of it. They were Void Achieving cultivators, and if they had to handle every little thing, what were the people under their care for? How would they have time to cultivate?

    "We donбпt have many people here either. Taoist Friend Xiao, you can ask Taoist Friend Wu from Tiandao Gate to take action."

    Tian Li also agreed, saying that dealing with a mere Soul Changing was enough for a Tiandao Gate cultivator in theter stage of Soul Changing.

    "Then it will trouble Taoist Friend Wu."

    Xiao Lingyue didnбпt argue much either. After Taoist Friend Wuбпs Soul Changing, she thought she could handle Su Chang, who was at most in the early stages of Soul Changing.

    "Okay."

    Taoist Friend Wu nodded. He was the only Soul Changing practitioner left in Tiandao Gate, with a low sense of existence. If he didnбпt make some effort, he would not be able to live off Xiaotian Cityбпs food for free. ??жбг╬???же?

    "The situation in the far north cannot be underestimated. Let Nascent Soul lead the team. I wonder who can take on this great responsibility."

    "Let someone from my Infinite Pce go."

    Tian Li said. The strength of the Lin family is stronger than Lin Batian, and the others have insufficient cultivation. There are only a few Nascent Soul practitioners. In fact, the overall strength of the four major sects is stronger than the Lin family. Itбпs just that they are divided into four families. Otherwise, the ruler of Xiaotian City would not be the Lin family.

    The major issues have been discussed, and now only the details remain. Lin Chaosheng can handle that. Xiao Lingyue didnбпt say much afterwards, but she still liked the situation.

    Previously, although she was the saintess of the Spiritual Moon Sect, she had no real power. She just focused on her cultivation. During this time, she felt the beauty of having power, with people agreeing and following her every word and action, and being admired everywhere.

    "No wonder men pursue strength, strength brings power, itбпs truly amazing."

    Xiao Lingyue thought to herself, at this moment she felt even more that her perspective was too narrow when she was in the Spiritual Moon Sect.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    Tian Heng and a few others entered the extreme north to investigate, the people by his side were all his rtives, just like in the four major sects. In the face of the catastrophe of extermination, those who could escape were either exceptionally talented individuals or high-ranking heirs.

    Now, the remnants of the four major sects in Qing State could be described as remnants of families. However, Tian Heng and the others didnбпt think there was anything wrong with this. It would be foolish not to save their own people at a critical moment.

    "Martial Uncle, there are still many demon tribes in the depths of North State, and there are also many Human Demon Tribes. These tribes havenбпt appeared in Xiaotian City."

    "I know, some Human Demon Tribes are selling goods, while some tribes have never had any dealings with us."

    "Then what aboutбн"

    "Letбпs focus on the important tasks first. Now that we have upied North State, we have plenty of opportunities."

    Tian Heng said, he knew what the person meant, they just wanted to steal something, and he also had that n, but it wasnбпt the right time yet.

    "Yes, Martial Uncle."

    "Martial Uncle, can we reim Infinite Pce?"

    "Why are you talking about this?"

    "My child was bornst year, I donбпt really feel like seeking revenge anymore, we donбпt have much opportunity."

    "Shut up, are you trying to disrupt our unity?"

    "Martial Uncle, I also want revenge, butбн"

    The person didnбпt know how to express themselves for a moment. When Infinite Pce was destroyed, they were still very young and didnбпt understand. But now itбпs different, they understand.

    They only took the smallest and weakest North State, but gained countless benefits. As for the four big families, they took the entire Qing State, something that even the four major sects couldnбпt achieve before.

    They will only be stronger, but over the years their continuous harassment of Qing State has had very little effect and caused great losses. The gap between them is toorge.

    He had already given up hope and had thoughts of surrender. Revenge and restoring the sect were no longer considerations. Just living well was the best path.

    In the cultivation world, itбпs all about fighting and killing, just like those demonic tribes, the Human Demon Tribe. They havenбпt killed us, but we have to kill them. Does that make sense? It doesnбпt. In their eyes, we are the demons.

    Simrly, we didnбпt provoke the four major families, but they destroyed our sect and killed our loved ones. If youбпre not willing to pick up a sword, then in the future, your children will suffer the same fate.

    In order to avoid being killed, one must have the power to kill. This is the essence of this world. Your days in Xiaotian City were built on the blood of others. I hope you remember this."

    "Martial Uncle is right. Rather than just surviving, itбпs better to die in a spectacr way. Qing State used to be ours, and it will be ours again. If you donбпt want to kill anymore, then leave. I, on the other hand, will stick to this path until the end."

    "Alright, enough about that. ording to the intelligence from Xiaotian City, both teams have disappeared in this area, and thereбпs also aplete disappearance of the Human Demon Tribe. Investigate this area, spread out and be careful. If anything seems suspicious, run first and then decide."

    Tian Heng didnбпt want to say much. He asked everyone to spread out and investigate. They quickly dispersed, searching the surroundings.

    "Martial Uncle, I have found something."

    After two hours, Tian Heng received a message and immediately gathered everyone to go.

    "Master of martial arts, in the front, I have discovered a spiritual vein ording to the earthбпs pulse. However, this ce is deste and very unusual. I have used my Magical Eye to observe it, but I canбпt see anything."

    "Let me take a look first."

    Tian Heng nodded and cast a spell, also summoning the Magical Eye. Golden light shimmered in his eyes, allowing him to see everything clearly.

    "Master of martial arts, how is it?"

    "There is a whole new world inside, filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers."

    "A formation barrier?"

    "Yes, but I didnбпt see anyone inside."

    "What should we do?"

    "I will go inside and have a look. You all stay back. If I donбпte out in one hour, you can leave. Please ask the old ancestor for help. There is something strange here, either a big problem or an opportunity."

    Tian Heng said. In the far north, suddenly there is a ce. Itбпs either a very dangerous ce or a great opportunity. He wonбпt miss it.

    After discussing, several people, Tian Heng flew forward and quickly entered the barrier, disappearing from sight.

    Tian Heng arrived inside the barrier and once again saw a scene full of chirping birds and fragrant flowers. He was quite shocked. This kind of scene wasnбпt anything special in the Qing State, but it was very rare in the North State.

    "What is that?"

    Not long after, red clouds reappeared. Tian Heng scanned with his spiritual awareness but couldnбпt figure out what it was. When the red clouds approached, Tian Heng finally discovered what it was and his expression changed immediately.

    "Infinite Marvelous Method."

    Tian Heng didnбпt panic. A ray of light shed, and arge amount of raindrops fell. Before the raindrops reached the ground, they turned into ice cubes, and the red clouds were also taken away.

    "Let me see who is ying tricks."

    Tian Heng quickly attacked and after a dozen moves, the scene inside the barrier turned into ruins. The beautiful scenery with birds chirping and flowers blooming instantly changed into a Syrian-stylendscape.

    "You dare to challenge my dojo, little one."

    "Whoбпs there? Show yourself."

    A voice appeared and Tian Heng shouted loudly, but no one appeared. Instead, arge number of red clouds emerged, which were actually bugs swarming towards Tian Heng.

    However, Tian Heng remained fearless. These bugs had weak attacks, only relying on their numbers. Tian Heng took out a stack of spiritual talismans and activated them, causing countless red clouds to dissipate.

    "Iбпve found you."

    Following the trail of the red clouds, Tian Heng searched all the way and arrived at a valley. The whole valley was filled with red clouds, faintly visible but not clearly visible. However, Tian Heng believed that the person who was ying tricks was here.

    "You have good strength to find the ce where the old ancestor hides."

    "Why do you hide and refuse to show yourself?"

    "Grandfather needs one more blood ve, I think you are very suitable."

    As they spoke, the red cloud dissipated, and Tian Heng became suddenly terrified because he didnбпt see a person, but instead saw arge moving mass of blood that almost filled half of the valley.

    "Everyone is frightened when they first meet Grandfather, but once you be a blood ve, you will understand how amazing Grandfather is."

    "Die."

    In his fear, Tian Heng angrily attacked, sending thousands of sword energy, shooting towards the mass of blood in the valley.

    The mass of blood emitted a red light, deflecting the sword energy, and then a stronger red light attacked Tian Heng. Despite his best efforts to defend himself, he couldnбпt stop it and was sted away.

    Countless Blood Worms quickly covered Tian Hengбпs body, and his protective energy was rapidly diminishing. However, instead of resisting, Tian Heng secretly gripped a spiritual talisman.

    "Boom!"

    At the moment when his protective energy shattered, Tian Heng unleashed an incredibly strong surge of sword energy. This was the Life Talisman bestowed upon him by his familyбпs ancestor. At the same time, Tian Heng activated the spiritual talisman in his hand, causing his body to quickly disappear. He chose to escape.

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 Chapter 283:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian City

    Xiao Lingyue hurriedly arrived and saw Tian Li with a gloomy face. She asked. How is Tian Heng?

    "Heбпs fine for now."

    Tian Li said, Tian Heng managed to escape in time and heбпs fine, but the disciples who followed him all died. They were the elite of his family, and each loss was very painful for him.

    "What happened? I heard that Tian Heng used your Life Talisman. Canбпt your Life Talisman deal with it?"

    "Letбпs wait until Tian Henges out of treatment."

    Tian Li shook his head. He was also confused and didnбпt know what had happened to Tian Heng.

    Two hourster, Tian Heng finished his treatment. His injuries were not serious because he ran fast. After the Life Talisman was activated, the blood group didnбпt spare him. He fought another battle, and all his nephews and nieces died."Tian Heng, please tell me whatбпs going on."

    "Yes, Elder Ancestor, I received orders to go with a few people to the far north to investigate the disappearance of disciples in Xiaotian City. We discovered a valley with a protective barrier. I asked the disciples to wait outside while I went in to search.

    Once inside the barrier, we were attacked by numerous Blood Worms. After defeating a group of them, I found the enemy. It was a massive blood mass iming to be the Elder Ancestor, wanting to forcefully make me their ve. I used the Life Talisman given by the Elder Ancestor to escapeбн"

    "Blood Worms, blood mass, itбпs definitely the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "Iбпve read some information about the North State. The Blood Demon Ancestor was eliminated five hundred years ago. How is it possible that thereбпs another one?"

    "Could it be like Killing Demon Su Chang, who actually didnбпt die at all? Maybe those bandits created this to calm peopleбпs fears."

    "Thatбпs very likely. Those bandits donбпt care about the far north and probably abandoned the people there. They just imed to have killed the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "If even the Life Talisman of Void Achievers couldnбпt kill them, then the Blood Demon Ancestor is at least in theter stages of Soul Changing, or even Void Achieving. Tian Elder Ancestor, Wei Elder Ancestor, we need you to personally intervene in this matter."

    "I understand. I will personally go and investigate."

    Tian Li and Wei Dao both nodded. This matter was no longer something that ordinary Soul Changing could handle. They needed to take matters into their own hands.

    "Lin Chaosheng, make arrangements. Increase the number of patrol teams and reduce the patrol area. Weбпll wait until the situation is resolved."

    "Yes, I will make arrangements."

    Lin Chaosheng nodded. In this situation, even if they didnбпt say anything, those people wouldnбпt dare to venture deep into the far north. They would definitely be up to something, so itбпs better to not let them go deep.

    "Evil Spirit Leader"

    "Defeating the Evil Demon Su Chang"

    "Oh my gosh, is North State that dangerous?"

    Xuanmiao City, Lin Jiang heard about what happened in Xiaotian City and couldnбпt help but exim. Luckily, he wasnбпt in North State, otherwise he would have to make a quick getaway. Itбпs too dangerous.

    "Uncle, donбпt be amazed. Aunt wants you to lend a beast pet. Will you lend it or not?"

    "No, letбпs say Small Shadiao has an important task and itбпs not convenient to involve outsiders."

    Lin Jiang immediately refused when he spoke up. Xiaotian City wanted to eliminate the evil ways in North State, exterminate Blood Demon Ancestor and Killing Demon Su Chang, but theycked manpower. When it came to lending Small Shadiao, Lin Jiang didnбпt hesitate to refuse. If he lent it, who would protect him? If there was anything wrong in Xuanmiao City, Lin Jiang would also want to run away.

    "Uncle, Aunt has given me a death order. Iбпm really troubled."

    "I donбпt care if youбпre troubled or not. If youбпre not troubled, then itбпs me who will be troubled. Alright, letбпs not talk about it anymore. You can go back and report now."

    Lin Jiang didnбпt budge at all. He would never lend Small Shadiao, and that was non-negotiable.

    "Uncleбн"

    "If you wonбпt go, I will."

    Lin Jiang turned around and left directly. Itбпs amon saying in the world: you canбпt borrow someoneбпs wife or their car. Small Shadiao is his car, you know.

    No matter how sad the person looked, Lin Jiang strolled all the way to Small Shadiaoбпs house. Ever since Small Shadiao married Snow Woman, Lin Jiang specifically rented a house for him, so they could live a carefree life.

    "Dad, why are you here?"

    "You have forgotten about your dad since you married your wife. How many days has it been since youst went to thepany?"

    "Wasnбпt it you who gave me the vacation? I havenбпt used it up yet."

    "Oh, why is your home so cold?"

    As Lin Jiang heard Small Shadiao saying this, it seemed to be true. The vacation he gave to someone else, itбпs not right. Who said that when youбпre on vacation, you canбпt do anything? Itбпs like after work, you can ignore everything, right?

    "The Snow Woman, she is a Snow Demon, she loves the icy environment. I asked Wei Lin to create an icy formation for me and the Snow Woman really likes it."

    "Small Shadiao, what do you think will happen if you and the Snow Woman have a child? A snow sculpture or something else?"

    "Well, I donбпt know. Weбпll find out after the baby is born. Iбпll try my best."

    "Yes, try harder."

    Lin Jiang nodded, making a snow sculpture is also nice, and in the future, there will be one more person who can be exploited. Small Shadiao should work harder and have a hundred and eighty little Small Shadiaos, so we wonбпt need to look for workers anymore.

    "Whatбпs the matter? If thereбпs nothing, Iбпm going on vacation."

    "Small Shadiao, are you trying to drive me away? Are you rebelling?"

    "No, Iбпm not. If you have something to say, just say it."

    "Nothing much. Just these few days, if someone tries to persuade you to go back to North State, donбпt agree, you hear? North State is very dangerous now, if you go there, even your fur will be stripped off."

    "Is it that dangerous?"

    "Yes, itбпs that dangerous."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He was really afraid that Small Shadiao would be persuaded to go back. The name Blood Demon Ancestor alone sounded like trouble.

    "Dad, Iбпm definitely not going back. I just got married and itбпs my honeymoon period. Iбпm not stupid."

    "Okay, as long as youбпre not stupid. Take your time and live your life."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He had been waiting here for a long time, but Snow Woman never showed up. She was too afraid to look at Lin Jiang, or maybe she was just afraid of all human beings. Only Small Shadiao, who was a creature from another world, she wasnбпt afraid of him.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt say anything else. He turned around and saw Wei Lin as soon as he stepped out of the door. Wei Lin saw Lin Jiang and immediately said. Boss, I finally found you.

    "Is there something you need?"

    "Come, letбпs find a quiet ce to talk."

    Wei Lin nced around and then led Lin Jiang to Lin Jiangбпs cave, which was right next to Small Shadiaoбпs.

    "Boss, I have something to discuss with you."

    "Go ahead and tell me."

    "In a few days, Xiaotian City may need me toe back, but I really donбпt want to go. Can you help me handle it?"

    "I really donбпt want to go back, darn it, youбпre afraid of fighting."

    Lin Jiang shouted loudly, Wei Lin must have known about the situation in Xiaotian City. This guy is scared of fighting.

    "Boss, donбпt say it so harshly. What do you mean by being afraid of fighting? Itбпs called avoiding unnecessary sacrifices. My father is risking his life up ahead, whatбпs wrong with me staying here? Besides, I also have important responsibilities, I need to protect the boss."

    "Basically, itбпs scared of fighting. ording to the rules of Xiaotian City, that deserves a beheading. Bring me the knife."

    "Hey, hey, hey, boss, Iбпm not joking, I really wonбпt go back."

    "Is it really that dangerous?"

    "My father personally wrote me a letter, what do you think?"

    "Even Wei Dao, the senior, isnбпt sure?"

    Lin Jiang was very surprised and his smiling face disappeared. Wei Dao is actually a Void Achieving cultivator!

    "The North State has deep waters and it hides countless monsters and demons. If this Blood Demon Ancestor is the same one that disappeared five hundred years ago, he might be really powerful."

    "Isnбпt the Blood Demon Ancestor supposed to be defeated by Soul Changing? Is he really that powerful?"

    "Why havenбпt you heard of him? The Blood Demon Ancestor cultivated a method called the боBlood Demon Manual,бп which is an extremely wicked cultivation method. By killing people and absorbing their blood, he could cultivate. Even the Soul Changing couldnбпt kill him hundreds of years ago. Can you imagine how powerful he must be if heбпs been hiding and cultivating for hundreds of years?"

    "That actually makes sense."

    "Exactly, thatбпs why I am the only child in my family. If something happens to me, what will my father do?"

    "Just have another child."

    "Butбн "

    Wei Lin was about to faint. Is this really a humannguage they are speaking?

    "Just kidding, just kidding, what if another one turns out to be useless, right?"

    "Yes, so I really canбпt go back."

    "Got it, Iбпll stand up for you in this matter."

    Lin Jiang nodded, but deep down he muttered. Youбпre so afraid of death, yet you stay behind to protect me. If thatбпs the case, I must be in danger, and you might run away too. I have to find a chance to send you away.

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 Chapter 284:

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    North State, the northernmost ce

    Wei Dao and Tian Li arrived at the ce where Tian Heng had previously discovered the Blood Demon Ancestor, but it was already empty. They entered the barrier and only saw a ground full of bones, all of them dry corpses drained of blood.

    "The ground is filled with blood, how many people has this Blood Demon Ancestor sucked?"

    "This guy has be powerful."

    "Difficult"

    Both of them sighed. Based on their observations of this ce, the strength of the Blood Demon Ancestor is extraordinary. It is likely that it has already reached the level of Void Achieving, not just the ordinary Soul Changing.

    "What should we do next, Wei?"

    "Letбпs investigate. North State has put in so much effort. It is our chance to turn things around. We canбпt just give up because of one Blood Demon Ancestor.""Alright, we can only continue investigating and see if there are any clues among the Human Demon Tribe nearby."

    "Letбпs go back and gather more people. With just the two of us, who knows how long it will take for us to find answers. Iбпm afraid the Blood Demon Ancestor will y tricks on us."

    Wei Dao said. North State is too big and sparsely popted. They are not familiar with this ce. With just the two of them, itбпs uncertain how much time it will take. They can only rely on arge number of people now.

    Wei Dao sent a message back to Xiaotian City. Xiao Lingyue didnбпt refuse this overall n. She understood the situation and immediately sent two thousand people to the far north.

    "Divide into teams of ten to twenty people. Maintain a distance of no more than a hundred miles between each team. Make sure everyone has a way to stay in touch. Spread out and search with this ce as the center. If there is any news, donбпt try to be brave. Immediately report and retreatбн"

    Wei Dao gave orders to two thousand people. Soon, the two thousand people formed teams and dispersed in the extreme north, disappearing in the icy snow.

    Meanwhile, Wei Dao created a magic formation, which projected a screen of light. On the screen, there were two thousand red dots. To put it bluntly, these two thousand people were actually bait. Once the bait was taken, they would receive a message.

    "Greetings, Holy Ancestor."

    In a certain ce in the extreme north, more than twenty people knelt before an old man in red robes. These twenty-something individuals had different appearances; some had wings on their backs, some had scales all over their bodies, and some had human heads with animal bodies. They were all members of the Human Demon n from the North State.

    "Please rise."

    Blood Demon Ancestor nodded and motioned for everyone to stand.

    "Holy Ancestor, there are many human ns outside searching for our ancestorбпs whereabouts."

    "I already know, so this yearбпs offering must be increased by ten times."

    "Ah"

    "Why, not allowed?"

    The Blood Demon Ancestor swept a cold nce, and more than twenty people suddenly shrank their necks, afraid to look at him.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was very satisfied with the performance of the person in front of him. Seven to eight hundred years ago, he was once a member of the North State Bandits. He rose to power by chance after obtaining a book called "Blood Demon Manual." At first, he killed and absorbed blood secretly to cultivate his powers, and then he started killing on arge scale.

    It wasnбпt until he revealed his true identity and was attacked by the North State Bandits that he realized he was not their match. He was heavily injured and escaped to the far north, luckily surviving.

    After the situation calmed down, the Blood Demon Ancestor changed his strategy and, through both coercion and deceit, made the Human Demon Tribe worship him as their Holy Ancestor. They would offer sacrifices to him every year, and the offerings were their own people.

    Life for the Human Demon Tribe was extremely miserable. They were forced by the human race to live in this freezing environment, and there wasnбпt enough food. Every year, arge number of people died either from starvation or conflicts with other tribes or demons, or from other dangers.

    Under the maniption of the Blood Demon Ancestor, they agreed to offer the elderly and weak of their tribe to him. In return, the Blood Demon Ancestor would help protect them from the dangers of the demons and mediate conflicts between tribes.

    This went on for about five hundred years, until the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs cultivation reached its peak at the Soul Changing stage. In order to break through, he needed arge amount of fresh blood. The usual offerings were no longer enough, which is why he emerged and devoured the patrolmen and horses of Xiaotian City.

    "Donбпt worry, this is thest time the ancestor asks for your offerings. Once the ancestor bes powerful, he will lead you to attack Xiaotian City and move your tribe to a warm ce. There, you can grow crops, hunt, and practice your skills."

    Blood Demon Ancestor saw that everyone was silent and continued to deceive them, drawing one big promise after another, making everyone widen their eyes in surprise.

    They were extremely eager for a warm environment, so they could grow crops. With food, their newborn children would not starve to death. They wouldnбпt have to fight with the monster race or collect dangerous things anymore. This big promise was too tempting for them.

    "Holy Ancestor, how many offerings do you need this time?"

    "Each tribe should provide a quarter of its people. Remember, their sacrifice wonбпt be in vain. You will be rewarded in the futureбн"

    Blood Demon Ancestor continued to deceive them, making over twenty people be as excited as if they were injected with chicken blood, already imagining a bright future.

    After finishing his deception, Blood Demon Ancestor asked them to go back and prepare. When the time came, he would collect the offerings.

    Two dayster, Blood Demon Ancestor quietly appeared in a Human Demon Tribe. The people designated as offerings had already gathered in a room. Countless Blood Worms surged in and rushed into the room. After a series of screams, everything returned to calm.

    "It really is delicious."

    The Blood Demon Ancestor waved his hand, and therge group of Blood Worms returned to his body. They delivered the absorbed blood into his body, and he immediately started to refine it.

    "What should we do if we havenбпt eaten enough?"

    Not long after, the Blood Demon Ancestor showed an unhappy expression. These offerings were mostly old and weak, with very weak strength. Even their blood didnбпt have much energy.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor looked at the other houses in the tribe. He didnбпt know how many pairs of eyes were watching them. Then the Blood Demon Ancestor made another move. More Blood Worms appeared and rushed into the other houses.

    "Holy Ancestor, youбн"

    "It is your honor to be the food for me, the main body."

    The Blood Demon Ancestor stopped speaking and increased his attack. The people of the Human Demon Tribe finally realized it and began to fight back, but they were no match for the Blood Demon Ancestor. In no time, the entire tribe fell into silence.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor quietly left and arrived at the next tribe, but there was no one there. This surprised the Blood Demon Ancestor, who said. There are still clever people here.

    However, the Blood Demon Ancestor wasnбпt angry. Controlling so many tribes wasnбпt just about fooling them. Having clever people didnбпt matter because he had his own methods.

    Only saw the Blood Demon Ancestor fly out a Blood Worm from his body. The Blood Worm circled in the air a few times, then flew towards the outskirts of the tribe. The Blood Demon Ancestor followed all the way and finally discovered a cave in a valley.

    "Tsk tsk, the blood feast gathered together, saving the old ancestor from searching everywhere."

    The Blood Demon Ancestorughed. Everyone in each tribe has been manipted by him. Where can they run to?

    The Blood Demon Ancestor rushed into the cave. After a chaotic ughter, he walked out satisfied.

    "Almost there, just need to exterminate a few more tribes, then it will be enough."

    The Blood Demon Ancestor thought to himself. The distance to achieving Void is getting closer and closer. Itбпs only a thinyer of paper away. As long as he breaks through this barrier, he will be a Void Achieving cultivator.

    Thinking of this, the Blood Demon Ancestor became even more anxious and hurriedly went towards the tribes ahead. It didnбпt matter if they were deceived or if some intelligent individuals awakened, they couldnбпt escape.

    When he arrived at the tenth tribe, even before entering, he heard a loud shout, "Who is it?"

    "People from Xiaotian City?"

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was surprised to unexpectedly encounter the people from Xiaotian City. They wondered if it was just good luck.

    "Kill them and offer them to the Holy Ancestor."

    Before the Blood Demon Ancestor could take action, the people from the tribesunched an attack and killed the people from Xiaotian City.

    "Blood Demon Ancestor."

    The people from Xiaotian City were at a loss. They were just taking a break in the tribe after cking off, and now they had encountered the Blood Demon Ancestor. If they had another life, they would never dare to ck off again.

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 Chapter 285:

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    The North State, thend of the extreme north.

    The exposure of the Blood Demon Ancestor was very sudden. Neither side expected it. The people from Xiaotian City sent a message for help before their deaths, but by the time Wei Dao and Tian Li arrived, the Blood Demon Ancestor had disappeared without a trace.

    "Stop him, heбпs advancing."

    Wei Dao looked at the many dead bodies on the ground and suddenly realized that the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs sudden massacre must be a sign of advancement.

    The people of Xiaotian City were mobilized once again and patrolled this area. They soon discovered other tribes that had been ughtered.

    "Elder Ancestor, somethingбпs not right. We found signs of sacrifices among the massacred tribes."

    "Sacrifices?"

    "Yes, the elderly and weak of the tribe were gathered in one ce, seemingly waiting for death. Itбпs definitely a sacrifice.""Gather the troops and wait at the nearby tribes."

    "No, we cannot wait and defend. We must forcefully gather the people from the nearby tribes and those who refuse will be killed."

    Wei Dao interrupted. Splitting the troops and waiting in hiding is too passive. We should gather everyone here and force the Blood Demon Ancestor toe out.

    The troops from Xiaotian City followed orders and immediately began forcibly relocating the Human Demon Tribe. The whole process was very bloody because the tribes were not cooperative, but in the end, the people were sessfully relocated.

    бд

    "What a delicious meal."

    Blood Demon Ancestor looked at the crowd in front of him, his face full of hunger, especially towards Wei Dao and Tian Li. Their blood is so vibrant. Swallowing one of them is stronger than devouring ten thousand members of the Human Demon Tribe.

    "Who are you?"

    Wei Dao also spotted Blood Demon Ancestor. Seeing that Blood Demon Ancestor was an elderly man in red clothes, he furrowed his brow.

    "Holy Ancestor, save me."

    "Holy Ances

    Among the crowd, a Human Demon shouted for help. They still didnбпt know what Blood Demon Ancestor had done and thought that he hade to save them.

    "Blood Demon Ancestor."

    Wei Dao and Tian Liбпs faces turned pale, this Blood Demon Ancestor is too bold, dare to appear so tantly.

    "You all defend the formation, anyone who dares to cause trouble will be mercilessly killed."

    Wei Dao snorted, then exchanged a nce with Tian Li, and Wei Dao rushed out first.

    "Taixu Divine Light."

    As soon as Wei Dao arrived, he unleashed his most powerful move, directly using Soul Changing Dharma Appearance, then activated a divine light.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was not to be underestimated either, but his Soul Changing Dharma Appearance was not his true form, it was a blood-colored long spear. When he thrust the spear, it shed with Wei Daoбпs Taixu Divine Light, shattering the divine light, and the long spear continued to attack Wei Dao.

    Wei Dao defended with his sword, blocking the blood-colored long spear. In the blink of an eye, they exchanged blows dozens of times, and unexpectedly, Wei Dao was being suppressed. Tian Li stopped observing and joined the battle too.

    Tian Liбпs joining turned the tides for Wei Dao, gradually overpowering the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    "True Blood Demon realm."

    Seeing that he was no match, the Blood Demon Ancestor became anxious. In the next moment, his true form exploded, turning the area within hundreds of miles into a sea of blood-red.

    "Oh no, these drops of blood are absorbing my essence."

    "The attack is ineffective."

    "Area attack, fire magic."

    Wei Dao and Tian Liбпs faces changed drastically as they quickly realized something was wrong. The Blood Demon Ancestorбпs true form exploded into countless drops of blood, but these drops of blood seemed to be alive. Their essence was also mysteriously attracted to them, rapidly draining away.

    They quickly changed their attack methods. Both of them used fire magic, casting it on arge scale. The sky was filled with a sea of fire, and countless droplets of blood were burnt and melted. This move seemed to be effective.

    "Ancestor, save me!"

    However, the forces of Xiaotian City discovered that their formation was gradually crumbling, and they immediately cried out for help.

    "He wants to kill and take blood!"

    "Donбпt give him a chance to replenish!"

    "Soldiers of Xiaotian City, listen up! y the Human Demon Tribe, burn their bodies, and retreat!"

    The two of them discovered the intentions of the Blood Demon Ancestor and immediately gave themand. More than a thousand soldiers of Xiaotian City raised their knives and shed at the Human Demon Tribe.

    "Letбпs fight against them!"

    "Killed them."

    "Kill."

    The Human Demon Tribe also has some resistance capabilities. Many of their elite members have the strength equivalent to a golden core, and even some are at the Nascent Soul stage. Their strength is quite strong, and the two sides immediately began fighting.

    However, the forces from Xiaotian City are clearly stronger. Besides their advantage in cultivation level, they also have better equipment and more abundant experience.

    After a brief battle, most of the members from the Human Demon Tribe were either dead or injured, with thousands lying in pools of blood. Although there were casualties among Xiaotian Cityбпs forces, it wasnбпt too bad.

    "Set fire and burn these bodies."

    Someone performed fire magic and ignited the bodies.

    "Haha."

    But at this moment, the Blood Demon Ancestor appeared again. With a single blood sword, it broke through the formation. Soon after, an Extreme Cold Blue me emerged, extinguishing all fire magic. The fresh blood on the ground quickly coalesced into streams, flowing towards the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    "We fell for it."

    Wei Dao eximed in anger and once again attacked the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    "You all retreat, we will stop him."

    Tian Li told the remaining people and joined the battle group once again.

    "Bang, bang, bang!"

    When the bell in Xiaotian City rang, the people outside quickly retreated into the city. Xiao Lingyue stood on the city wall, nervously looking ahead.

    "Auntie, all the people and horses have retreated."

    "What about the people from the far north?"

    "More than one thousand three hundred have returned. The battle is not going well. Wei Dao and Tian Li, the old ancestors, together couldnбпt defeat the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "How could this happen? Werenбпt they experts in Void Achieving for many years?"

    Xiao Lingyue was somewhat incredulous. The two of them were considered masters in Void Achieving, after all, they had achieved it hundreds of years ago. How could they be no match for an evil cultivator?

    "I donбпt know either."

    "Contact the n leader urgently."

    Xiao Lingyue said that apart from Lin Batianбпs return, she couldnбпt think of any other way. They could only do this.

    "Yes."

    Lin Chaosheng nodded. After Lin Die left, he was the only one in the Lin family who had an urgent means of contacting Lin Batian.

    The spiritual talisman was activated, and Lin Chaosheng looked into the distance again. Tian Li and Wei Dao were still fighting against the Blood Demon Ancestor, getting closer and closer to Xiaotian City. It was unclear if it was intentional.

    Two hourster, themotion slowly subsided, and Tian Li and Wei Dao returned to Xiaotian City. Everyone rushed forward to inquire.

    "Elder, howбпs the situation?"

    "We dispersed the Blood Demon Ancestor, but heбпs still alive. The cultivation technique he practices is extremely unique."

    "Why is it like this?"

    "By the way, how is the search for Killing Demon Su Chang going?"

    "No news yet."

    "Looks like we can only find Lin Batian toe back."

    The two looked at each other and found themselves at a disadvantage against the Blood Demon Ancestor. They didnбпt have any special treasures, making it difficult to defeat the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    "It can only be so."

    Everyone thought that only Lin Batianбпs return would be the solution. The two elders were not a match for the Blood Demon Ancestor, let alone the rest of them.

    Lin Batian came back the next day, he rushed back at the fastest speed possible, and he was very angry. How long did it take for him to leave Xiaotian City and things still couldnбпt be solved?

    "North State canбпt do without me."

    After listening to everyoneбпs ount, Lin Batian also sighed. Being the head of the family is not easy.

    "Family head, what do you thinkбн"

    "Iбпll go and take a look, you wait here."

    "Be careful, head of the family."

    "Two fellow Daoists, letбпs go together."

    Lin Batian invited Wei Dao and Tian Li to go together. He wanted to show them how to fight.

    The three of them left Xiaotian City. It wasnбпt difficult to find the Blood Demon Ancestor. He had a big fight with Wei Dao, which made him fearless. He was currently killing a lot of people in the far north, the Human Demon Tribe. After all, he had achieved the Void state, so his demand for resources was even higher.

    "In just one day, his aura has be three times stronger. How many people has he killed?"

    Tian Li was extremely shocked to see the Blood Demon Ancestor. It had only been one day, but his aura had be three times stronger.

    "Itбпs not brave to gang up on someone who is outnumbered."

    When the Blood Demon Ancestor saw Lin Batian, he was also surprised. The strength of Xiaotian City was truly remarkable. This was already the third Void Achieving person. Could there still be a Tao Achieving Ancestor?

    "Not bully you, one-on-one, how about it?"

    "But you said that."

    "I said it,e on, both of you step back a bit."

    Lin Batian nodded, then walked forward.

    "ying God Spear"

    Without saying a word, Lin Batian raised the spear and struck directly. With a piercing motion, the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs face changed greatly and he also drew out his own blood spear in response.

    "Boom"

    As the two spears collided, the blood spear shattered and the Blood Demon Ancestor was sent flying.

    "So, it turns out to be the method of my Lin familyбпs ying God Spear."

    Lin Batian said disdainfully. Blood Demon Ancestorбпs spear skills bear some resemnce to ying God Spear, but itcks its divine power. Itбпs just garbage.

    "Run."

    Without hesitation, Blood Demon Ancestor immediately used Blood Escape Technique and vanished without a trace.

    "Such amazing escape technique."

    "We were able to defeat him before, but couldnбпt kill him. His Art of Blood Escape is really powerful."

    Tian Li quickly exined. Itбпs not that weбпre incapable, itбпs just that Blood Demon Ancestor is exceptionally good at escaping. Itбпs not his fault.

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 Chapter 286:

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    You State, Xuanmiao City

    News about the situation in North State quickly spread through the merchants in Xiaotian City and reached You State. As soon as the news of Blood Demon Ancestor circted, it immediately caused panic.

    The dangerousness of the evil path in the cultivation world has been experienced many times. Each time the evil path appears, it brings great harm to the cultivation world.

    "The Blood Demon Ancestorбпs cultivation technique is called the "Blood Demon Manual." This technique is extremely evil. It doesnбпt require high-quality cultivation resources, but instead feeds on cultivators. Those who practice this technique believe that humans are the most superior beings, and no medicine canpare to humans. Cultivators, who consider blood as essence, can refine their blood through the Blood Demon Manualбн"

    "The first appearance of the Blood Demon Manual was fifty to sixty thousand years ago. At that time, it was not called the Blood Demon Manual. Everyone has forgotten the exact name, butter someone named it the Blood Demon Manual. At that time, an independent cultivator practiced this technique for a hundred yearsбн"

    "Those who practice the Blood Demon Manual are called Blood Demon Ancestors. So these Blood Demon Ancestors are not the same person. Six thousand years ago, thest Demon Disaster broke out, sweeping through multiple domains. Thousands of people practiced this technique. They were from many prominent sects in the cultivation worldбн"

    Even in Lin Jiangбпs store, many people were talking about it. The offspring of the Lin family summarized the cause and effect of the Blood Demon Manual based on the rumors outside, allowing Lin Jiang to understand.

    "Does practicing the Blood Demon Manual not require talent? Can anyone do it?""Of course not. Evil path techniques also require talent. Itбпs just that these evil path techniques progress very quickly in the early stages, which leads to misunderstandings. With the same technique, some people can reach the Soul Changing stage while others can only practice until the golden core stage. If there is a technique that doesnбпt require talent and allows unlimited advancement, then it would not be called an evil path technique. It would be called a divine-level technique, and the major sects would have already practiced it. Who can resist the temptation of immortality?"

    "Thatбпs true."

    Lin Jiang nodded. In terms of killing, the major sects donбпt kill any less than those on the evil path, or even more. If those techniques had such an effect, they would not be ignored by the major sects. Techniques that the major sects donбпt want can only be said to have significant ws or severe consequences.

    "The Blood Demon Ancestor from North State has reached the level of Void Achieving. This fully meets the requirements of the Demon Disaster. The entire You State is filled with fear, afraid that the Blood Demon Ancestor wille and harm all living creatures."

    "If the Blood Demon Ancestor arrives in You State, it would be like a wolf entering a sheep pen, causing endless harm. Who knows how many independent cultivators will encounter problems."

    "Independent cultivators are not actually dangerous, the danger lies with us. The Blood Demon Ancestor has reached the level of Void Achieving, so the usual essence blood from Qi Refining and Building Foundation is already not effective against him. The level of essence blood needs to be improved, starting from the golden core stage. Soul Changing is the dangerous part."

    "Golden core, oh my!"

    Lin Jiang eximed, realizing that he is a golden core cultivator. Does this mean he is in danger?

    "Xuanmiao City is still safe. Tianxuan Sect has a Void Achieving cultivator guarding it all year round, as well as protective formations. Even if something really happens, there is always a Tao Achieving Ancestor ready to support. As long as the Blood Demon Ancestor is not foolish, they wonбпt cause trouble in Xuanmiao City. But other ces are uncertain."

    "Wei Lin, you must protect me well. Iбпm the one who saved you, you know."

    Lin Jiang immediately said, wishing to get rid of this person, but he couldnбпt because this person has a Void Achieving cultivator as their father, with a strong background.

    "No problem, boss. I will definitely protect you. So, uh, what do you thinkбн"

    Wei Lin rubbed his fingers, hoping to gain some benefits. Lin Jiang rolled his eyes directly. Youбпre waiting for me here, kid.

    "Ahem, I suddenly thought that if a Demon Disaster really happens, the outside world wonбпt be safe. Cultivators from various ces shoulde to Xuanmiao City to seek shelter. Isnбпt there a business opportunity?"

    Lin Jiang quickly became a cunning businessman. You State is no longer safe. Many people wille to Xuanmiao City to hide. Are they refugees? No, they are all valuable spirit stones.

    Lin Jiang wasted no time and immediately found the steward of the tradingpany. He told them to increase their efforts in stocking goods, preparing to make a big profit. A cunning businessman must take advantage of opportunities to get rich, otherwise whatбпs the point of being a cunning businessman?

    North State, Xiaotian City

    Lin Batian returned empty-handed as well. He chased after the Blood Demon Ancestor several times and won every time, but each time, the Blood Demon Ancestor managed to escape. The Blood Demon Ancestorбпs skill in the Art of Blood Escape was truly impressive.

    "Lin, has the Blood Demon Ancestor been killed yet?"

    "Itбпs easy to defeat him, but difficult to kill him. Heбпs too good at escaping."

    "What should we do? Recently, Xiaotian Cityбпs trade volume has sharply decreased, and who knows how many tribes have suffered from the hands of the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    Xiao Lingyue said with a worried face. Xiaotian City is their treasure trove, but recently, there have been fewer peopleing to trade here, and their ie has decreased too.

    "It doesnбпt matter. The poption of North State is already small, and with his killings, it will be even smaller. He canбпt hide forever. He eitheres out to fight us or he runs away."

    "Will he run away?"

    "Absolutely. Heбпs no match for me. Since he canбпt defeat me, his only choice is to run away."

    "But what about You State?"

    "What does You State have to do with me?"

    Lin Batian asked in response. You State is not his territory, even if itбпs in chaos, it has nothing to do with him.

    "Thatбпs true. Lin Lang shouldnбпt go out recently. Guarding Xiaotian City is the right thing to do. Among all the people in North State, Xiaotian City has the most residents."

    "Yes, I know. Gather the senior members of the Lin family. I have something to say."

    Lin Batian nodded. The poption of North State is really small, probably only around one million if we include the Yao tribe. Thatбпs even less than the poption of a single city in other states. Even Xiaotian City, which has only tens of thousands of people, is the most populous ce in North State.

    Soon, Lin Chaosheng and others arrived in front of Lin Batian. Lin Batian said. Leaving North State this time, we didnбпte back empty-handed. I have three treasures that can help break through the Nascent Soul stage with the golden core. Except for leaving one for Lin Dongyan, you can each have two. How to divide them is up to you. You golden core cultivators can discuss it.

    Lin Batianбпs words made everyoneбпs expressions change. Only three treasures, leaving one for Lin Dongyan, they had no objections to this because Lin Dongyan, regardless of age or aptitude, was extremely outstanding. Regardless of any criteria, he deserved one, especially since he was also a high-level Alchemist.

    But with only two left, it became difficult to divide. Other than differences in seniority, everyone had simr conditions. How should they split them?

    "Thatбпs all. You can all go now and give me news in half a month."

    "Yes, patriarch."

    The group left with heavy hearts. Xiao Lingyue, who was nearby, was very puzzled and said. Seems like Lin Langбпs actions may lead to internal strife within the Lin family.

    "I know."

    Lin Batian said, if anything goes wrong, the Lin family will experience internal turmoil. After all, unfair treatment causes all kinds of strife, and dividing resources unequally makes it even worse.

    "Why does that Lin guy have to be like this?"

    "No family, no family head can achieve absolute fairness. Even when resources are plentiful, some people will still want more. They are all my children, and to me, they are the same. But for them, itбпs a crucial life choice."

    "I donбпt understand."

    "Not understanding is okay."

    Lin Batian said, he had no other choice. The Lin family has nine fully cultivated golden core cultivators, but there are only so many treasures. No matter how they are distributed, someone will always be dissatisfied.

    If he were the one making the decision, those people would resent him. And if they resent him, they would resent the whole Lin family. So he cunningly delegated the power of choice. This way, those who didnбпt get the treasure would only hate each other, instead of hating him as the family head. It would cause much less harm.

    "If Lin finds the Soul Changing Treasure, Lin Die has been gone for many days, and Lin Ying hasnбпte back in years, wouldnбпt they be unhappy too?"

    "The Soul Changing Treasure is incredibly important. The major powers are unwilling to let go, even at the cost of their lives."

    Lin Batian shook his head, the Soul Changing Treasure was already difficult to acquire, no major sect would let it go.

    This is because the Lin familyбпs foundation is weak. If it were the Qing Stateбпs Lin family, there might still be a chance. Major powers are built up generation after generation, relying on umted time. But in his hands, the Lin family only has a little over 500 years of foundation, too weak. This generation will definitely have to make sacrifices, itбпs called "previous generations nt trees, future generations enjoy the shade."

    Lin Die and Lin Ying had to rely on themselves most of the time. Lin Batian couldnбпt help much.

    "What can we do then? They are your own daughters."

    "Thereбпs still time, why rush? If I can break through the ancestral grounds of the four major families, we wonбпtck the Soul Changing Treasure."

    Lin Batian shook his head. Lin Die and Lin Ying are still young, less than 500 years old. They still have time. It depends on whether Lin Batian can take revenge or not.

    Xiao Lingyue heard this and didnбпt have much confidence. Although her husband is powerful, the four major families are not easy to deal with. The Tao Achieving Ancestor is still around, so breaking through the ancestral grounds of the four major families is quite difficult.

    "Ah, I donбпt know when I will be able to advance to Void Achieving."

    Xiao Lingyue sighed in her heart. She had no opportunities in the Spiritual Moon Sect. If she married Duanmu Ling, it would be even more impossible. In the Lin family, itбпs hard to say. If there is no one in the Lin family with cultivation that can keep up with her, then with the presence of treasures, she would have a chance.

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 Chapter 287:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You City, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang stood on the attic and saw the crowded people in Xuanmiao City. The Blood Demon Ancestor had really entered You City. Three days ago, hemitted a massacre in the northern part of You City, wiping out a small sect of hundreds of people.

    As soon as the incident was exposed, people with some wealth flooded into Xuanmiao City because it was the safest ce in the entire You City. The other few major cities, despite having Void Achievers, may not necessarily be safe. Donбпt forget that the Blood Demon Ancestor is also a Void Achiever.

    This sudden surge in poption added tremendous pressure to Xuanmiao City. Prices skyrocketed, and there were frequent security incidents. Tianxuan Sect deployed arge number of people to maintain order, but it seemed to be of little use.

    б░Boss, other businesses have sent a message, deciding to raise prices again.б▒

    б░How much this time?б▒

    б░Another fifty percent increase.б▒

    б░Inform everyone and do as they say.б▒Lin Jiang waved his hand and said. The businesses form an alliance and raise the prices together. Itбпs a normal behavior.

    б░Itбпs amazing how the price has multiplied by five in just three days. Truly a cunning merchant.б▒

    б░If we were buyers, it would be fine toin, but now we are also merchants. Thereбпs no need to criticize our own people, right?б▒

    Lin Jiang turned to Wei Lin and said. There are many cunning merchants, not just him. All the businesses in Xuanmiao City do the same. He has to fit in, standing out is not a good thing.

    б░Even our own people criticize.б▒

    б░Are you feeling upset?б▒

    б░Yes, because for over a hundred years, Iбпve been a buyer, and you merchants have exploited me.б▒

    б░And what about now?б▒

    б░Haha, in one word: satisfying.б▒

    Wei Linughed loudly and felt extremely happy as it was now his turn to exploit others.

    б░There are quite a few people from the Taixu Sect in Xuanmiao City, right?б▒

    б░Oh, how did you know?б▒

    б░I deducted half of your sry, but you still live a luxurious life. Where does your moneye from? Do you even need to think about it?б▒

    Lin Jiang said. Of course, thatбпs just an excuse. The real reason is that someone saw Wei Lin constantly running to a certain ce. I figured that this kid stubbornly insists on going to Xuanmiao City for a reason.

    б░The boss is really clever.б▒

    Wei Lin grinned and said, but the boss would never have imagined that he actually had another business in Xuanmiao City. Those businesses were entirely copied from the boss. Whatever the boss did here, he would immediately tell them to do the same over there. Even the sources of their goods were the same, alling from Xiaotian City, just on a smaller scale.

    б░When will we be able to get rid of this Blood Demon Ancestor?б▒

    б░Itбпs difficult. The Blood Demon Ancestor is powerful. There are fewer than ten people in You State who can defeat him. And even if we find him, we must trap him. The Art of Blood Escape is renowned as one of the top five escaping techniques in the world. If you canбпt beat someone, you can always run away.б▒

    б░Iбпm too afraid to go outside if Blood Demon Ancestor is still alive.б▒

    Lin Jiang said. My life is more important, but staying at home is so boring.

    б░Hey, letбпs go have fun at Zhongmiao Building.б▒

    б░No, if we go, Iбпll be the one paying. Youбпre a cheap person.б▒

    Lin Jiang refused directly. Wei Lin has a thick face. If we go, he wonбпt pay. He doesnбпt understand the rules of not borrowing money at the gambling table and not treating at the brothel.

    бд

    You State, Tianxuan Sect

    Lin Batian followed Blood Demon Ancestor all the way, but after Blood Demon Ancestor entered You State, he disappeared. He could only go to Tianxuan Sect.

    б░ording to Taoist Friend Lin, this Blood Demon Ancestor isnбпt very powerful, but he is exceptionally skilled in escaping?б▒

    б░But itбпs not exactly like that. Everyone knows that once the Blood Demon Manual is used, it can make the Blood Demon Ancestor very powerful by ughtering cultivators, especially high-level ones. This will be a great threat.б▒

    б░Yes, we canбпt let the Blood Demon Ancestor continue to grow. We must quickly kill him. I wonder if Taoist Friend Lin has obtained anything from the Blood Demon Ancestor. Tianxuan Sect has treasures that can help us find his whereabouts.б▒

    б░Not yet.б▒

    Lin Batian shook his head. The Blood Demon Ancestor was very slippery and their encounters were always short. He still hasnбпt managed to get anything from the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    б░This is troublesome.б▒

    б░We can only try a simple method: arge-scale operation. In the name of Tianxuan Sect, weбпllmand all the sects of You State to be on high alert. If thereбпs any news, all the experts should act together.б▒

    б░Itбпs too much effort, and this method is not sustainable. If it goes on for too long, we are bound to bex and there will be many loopholes.б▒

    The Tao Achieving cultivator of Tianxuan Sect said. Setting up a trap in You State is possible, but it canбпt be for too long. Maybe a month wonбпt even work. The whole You State canбпt just focus on capturing the Blood Demon Ancestor. If it takes too long, everyone will be careless, the expenses will add up, and the mission wonбпt be aplished.

    б░Since itбпs like this, I have no other choice.б▒

    Lin Batian shrugged. Thatбпs up to you now. Anyway, the Blood Demon Ancestor has already left North State, so it doesnбпt really matter.

    б░Letбпs think about it some more.б▒

    б░Iбпll take my leave then.б▒

    Lin Batian didnбпt say anything more. He didnбпt want to get involved with the Blood Demon Ancestor anymore, so he left first.

    Lin Batian arrived in Xuanmiao City, and the Lin familyбпs descendants immediately came to greet him. It wouldnбпt be right if they didnбпt pay their respects when the elders were present.

    б░You all can go now, but Dongyan and Lin Wu, stay behind.б▒

    Lin Batian exchanged a few greetings and then let everyone disperse, leaving only Lin Dongyan and Lin Jiang.

    б░Elders, is there something you need?б▒

    б░I found a Nascent Soul Achieving Pill. Dongyan, you can have it.б▒

    б░Ah, ancestor, Iбнб▒

    б░No need to say more, this is what you deserve. I hope you can advance to Nascent Soul.б▒

    Lin Batian said. If Lin Dongyan can achieve Nascent Soul, it will be very important for the Lin family. A talented sixth-level Alchemist like him can bring countless benefits to the Lin family. Just think about Li Ruoxu from before, how much money could one person make?

    б░Thank you, ancestor.б▒

    Lin Dongyan didnбпt decline. When ites to cultivation levels, no one really declines. Once advanced, it means gaining hundreds of years of lifespan.

    б░Congrattions, Dongyan.б▒

    Lin Jiang smiled. Breakthroughs are good. The more skilled an employee is, the more benefits he brings. Lin Dongyan alone can outperform hundreds of people in terms of profits.

    б░Lin Wu, letбпs discuss something.б▒

    б░Please, head of the family, go ahead.б▒

    б░Borrow some money.б▒

    б░I donбпt have any money.б▒

    б░Just borrow a little bit. I spent all of it this time when I went out.б▒

    б░I really donбпt have any. I spent it all. I even gave some to Small Shadiao to get married. Auntie has a lot of money.б▒

    Lin Jiang directly refused. Even his own father canбпt do it. Will they return the borrowed money?

    б░Does your beast pet spend so much money to get married?б▒

    б░Snow Demon, well, we canбпt let Auntie suffer a loss, can we?б▒

    б░Really donбпt have any money?б▒

    б░I donбпt have any money left. The head of the household doesnбпt know how expensive it is to maintain such arge group of people. They eat and drink at my expense, and the house they live in is the one I rented. I even have to pay their sries. Otherwise, if thatбпs the case, Iбпll just deduct their sries and give it to the head of the household.б▒

    б░This doesnбпt seem very good.б▒

    б░Thereбпs nothing wrong. As the head of the family, your decision counts.б▒

    Lin Jiang said. If you dare to agree, he will dare to embezzle money. Heбпll lend you ten thousand spirit stones and deduct twenty thousand spirit stones from their wages.

    б░Then letбпs forget about it.б▒

    Lin Batian meekly said. The descendants of the Lin family who are working for Lin Jiang are all getting paid by him. How can he have the audacity to ask for more?

    б░Well, then thereбпs nothing else. Iбпll leave first, head of the family.б▒

    б░Wait, I still have some misceneous items here. Can you help me sort them out?б▒

    б░Yes.б▒

    Lin Jiang took the storage bag from Lin Batian and scanned it with his divine sense. There were indeed some misceneous items inside, but it was clear that Lin Batian was really short on money.

    The Lin familyбпs ie is actually not low, and it increases every year. However, the Lin family also has high expenses because they have a lot of children and they have given away most of thend in Xiaotian City.

    The Lin familyбпs finances are a mess, and Lin Jiang doesnбпt want to deal with it. If he takes over this mess, he will be stuck. He just wants to take care of himself.

    Lin Dongyan received the Nascent Soul Achieving Pill and went into seclusion in a top-level cave in Xuanmiao City, which Lin Jiang paid for. Otherwise, he would not have enough spirit power, and his breakthrough would definitely fail.

    Other ces in You State are now in a state of panic. The Blood Demon Ancestor appears from time to time,mitting bloodshed and even killing Nascent Soul cultivators. Despite the repeated intervention of the Tianxuan Sect, they couldnбпt stop the Blood Demon Ancestor. This has made Xuanmiao City even more mysteriously prosperous, as more and more people escape there.

    Throughout the whole event, it seems that only those cunning merchants are the ultimate beneficiaries. The direction of the whole event reveals its strangeness.

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 Chapter 288:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You State and Xuanmiao City

    A year passed in the blink of an eye. During this year, the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs whereabouts were often revealed, but he also frequently disappeared, causing anxiety among the cultivators in You State.

    But as time went on, peopleбпs tense nerves began to rx because many of them ran out of money. The cost of living in big cities is very high, especially for those independent cultivators whoe from outside. They canбпt even afford the amodation fee alone.

    Being extremely poor, there is no fear of any danger because the most painful thing in the world is to live without money.

    As the independent cultivators slowly left, Xuanmiao City began to return to normal, and even the news about the Blood Demon Ancestor was no longer spread.

    During this year, it was a good time for the unscrupulous merchants in Xuanmiao City. Now that the good times have ended, Lin Jiang and other businesses invited Zhou Huaiying to a meal.

    Lin Jiang served as the introducer for the other businesses, referring them to Zhou Huaiying. In return, Zhou Huaiying provided some convenience to these businesses, and ording to the rules, each business would give Zhou Huaiying a benefit every year. Although each individual benefit may not be much, the total amount is considerable.

    Now Zhou Huaiying is not alone anymore. People are social beings, and he has a wife, concubines, children, disciples, and followers. All of these require money to support, and his desire for resources is much higher than before."Senior Zhou, taste the specialty of the Hui Cui Building. This dish was ordered by me a month in advance."

    "This is the dish called боClouds in the Sunsetбп."

    Zhou Huaiying was also curious as he looked at the dish in front of him. He saw a te surrounded by clouds, emitting a colorful glow, with a strong spiritual energy surging.

    This dish was developed by the Hui Cui Building two years ago and has gained great fame since its debut. It is highly sought after, and it is said that anyone who wants to taste this dish must make a reservation one month in advance.

    "Yes, this is a very delicious dish. Once it is served, all the other main dishes in the Huicui Restaurant pale inparison."

    "This dish is extremely well-madeбн"

    "It is said thatбн"

    The people on the side immediately agreed, discussing the inspiration, ingredients, and recipe of this dish. All in all, it was intricate and had a high level of sophistication.

    Of course, it was true. This dish was filled with abundant spiritual energy. It couldnбпt be eaten without refining the spiritual energy beneath the golden core, as there was a risk of bursting.

    "It really is wonderful."

    After listening, Zhou Huaiying nodded and secretly thought that these merchants were really rich. This dish in the Huicui Restaurant was priced at five hundred thousand spirit stones. Combined with other dishes and drinks on this table, the total value of the meal exceeded eight hundred thousand spirit stones. Even he wouldnбпt be willing to spend that much money.

    "Senior Zhou, itбпs almost ready. We can start eating."

    Just wait a moment, Lin Jiang said to Zhou Huaiying. This time, they spent a lot of money to invite Zhou Huaiying for a meal, naturally with a reason. Over the past year, they had received numerousints for manipting the market and inting prices. If they didnбпt hold onto someoneбпs thigh tightly, the Tianxuan Sect wouldnбпt be as friendly.

    "Please wait a moment."

    Just as Zhou Huaiying was about to start using his chopsticks, suddenly a voice came from outside the door. Everyone was startled. They were in a private room at the Hui Cui Restaurant, which had its own protective barrier. How could someone still know about them?

    Lin Jiang gave a signal to the person near the door, who nodded and opened it. Outside stood a young man.

    Lin Jiang and the others extended their awareness, but when their awareness entered the manбпs body, there was no movement at all. They felt uneasy. Zhou Huaiying randomly asked. Excuse me, taoist friend, do you have any business?

    "I have traveled far and wide for many years, and Iбпve heard that the famous dish боSteamed Cloud and Violet Mistбп at the Hui Cui Restaurant in the You State is exquisite. I came specifically to try it, but unfortunately, the restaurant only serves one dish per month. I canбпt wait, so I wanted to discuss with the taoist friend whether I could have a taste of this dish."

    "You are too rude, sir. The dish has already been served. Itбпs unreasonable to have it taken away by someone else. Even if the taoist friendбпs cultivation surpasses us, it is still disrespectful to do so."

    "Exactly! We have also waited for a month. How can we let you take it away just like that?"

    The owners of several businesses became extremely angry. It didnбпt matter who ate the dish, but this person was too arrogant. Today they invited Zhou Huaiying with a purpose, and if Zhou Huaiying became unhappy, they would be in for trouble, possibly at a much higher cost.

    Faced with the reprimand, the person didnбпt get angry. They simply looked at Zhou Huaiying. After hesitating for a moment, Zhou Huaiying said. It is indeed impolite for the taoist friend to take away this dish. However, instead of meeting as strangers, why not sit down and enjoy it together?

    "I donбпt like eating in crowded ces, I prefer to eat alone."

    "In that case, taoist friend might be disappointed."

    "But what if I really have to eat?"

    "Please give it a try, taoist friend."

    Zhou Huaiying was also getting annoyed. He had been polite enough, but still no respect. Itбпs like they thought of him as just a toy. Lin Jiang, who was standing nearby, became very nervous. He already had a teleportation charm ready in his hand, in case things turned violent. He was determined to escape right away if they started fighting.

    "Hehe, taoist friend, what should I call you?"

    In the midst of this tense atmosphere, the person suddenly chuckled and said to Zhou Huaiying.

    "I am Tianxuan Sectбпs Zhou Huaiying."

    "Ah, so you are a master from Tianxuan Sect. I apologize for my rudeness."

    "Taoist friend, huh?"

    "A wanderer in the world, insignificant and no cause for offense. I apologize for any offense caused."

    The man bowed and turned to leave, without anyone stopping him, all eyes turned to Zhou Huaiying.

    "Ignore him, keep eating."

    "Eat, Senior Zhou, donбпt bother with someone like him."

    The crowd immediately became lively, although Zhou Huaiying wasnбпt very happy, he didnбпt really mind.

    "Senior Zhou, be careful, that person just now might have targeted you."

    After finishing the meal, there would usually be a second part. During the transition, Lin Jiang whispered to Zhou Huaiying. The more he thought about it, the more he felt something was off. In theory, a skilled person wouldnбпt act so recklessly and just take a nce before leaving.

    "I understand, I will be careful."

    Zhou Huaiying nodded, he also had some doubts, so he would be more cautious.

    "Senior Zhou"

    On the way from Xuanmiao City to Tianxuan Sect, Zhou Huaiying suddenly heard a voice behind him. He stopped and turned around to see a familiar person, Xiao Yi.

    "Whatбпs the matter?"

    "Thereбпs something I forgot to tell you, Senior."

    "Just say it."

    "Senior, this is not the right ce to talk. Why donбпt youe with me?"

    "What is it exactly?"

    "Very important matter, concerns our lives"

    "Alright, you lead the way"

    Zhou Huaiying nodded and followed Xiao Yi.

    "Xiao Yi, a few days ago I met Yi Zhibai, he mentioned you to me. Do you know what he said about you?"

    "What did he say about me, elder?"

    "He said you were bold and fearless"

    "Haha, is that so?"

    "Yes"

    Zhou Huaiying nodded, and before his words could finish, the long sword was already in action, the surging sword light shed towards the Xiao Yi in front of him. However, Xiao Yi seemed prepared and evaded the attack.

    "I never lied to you, it seems like you have a good rtionship."

    Xiao Yi, who dodged a strike, returned to his original appearance. His whole demeanor changed and he transformed into a middle-aged man.

    "Who are you, sir?"

    "Someone who wants to kill you."

    The middle-aged man stopped speaking and directly attacked Zhou Huaiyi. A sea of blood rain appeared, enveloping the surroundings.

    "Ancestor of the Blood Demons."

    "Haha, quite impressive!"

    The Ancestor of the Blood Demons no longer pretended. He had been keeping an eye on Zhou Huaiying of the Tianxuan Sect for a long time. He knew that this person had spent over a thousand years wandering in the Divine Kingdom, a period of time wasted in vain, with the weakest cultivation.

    "Youбпre seeking death."

    "Donбпt worry, Iбпm not here to harm you."

    "What do you want to do?"

    "I am very lonely and I want to find a Taoist friend to keep mepany."

    "Hmph."

    "This is a technique called боBlood Demon Manualбп, Zhou Huaiying. You have been in the Divine Kingdom for over a thousand years, wasting time without any progress in your cultivation. Cultivation is like rowing against the current, if you donбпt move forward, you will go backwards. With your current lifespan, do you have a chance to advance to боTao Achievingбп and seek immortality?"

    "Nonsense."

    You know very well if itбпs nonsense or not. Otherwise, with your level of cultivation, why would you associate with a group of deceitful merchants? How much resources can those merchants bring you?

    Time is running out, Iбпm leaving. Think carefully about what is more important to you: immortality or the petty divide between good and evil. If you understand,e find meter. I will be staying in You State and I will support my cultivation with its resources. I will help me achieve immortality. Hahaha.

    Blood Demon Ancestorughed loudly, then quickly disappeared. Zhou Huaiying stood there, stunned, and didnбпt chase after him.

    "Brother Zhou"

    After a while, there were cries in the distance. Zhou Huaiying instinctively put away the jade slip in his hand.

    "Brother Zhou, did the Blood Demon Ancestor just show up with great strength?"

    "Yes, the Blood Demon Ancestor appeared."

    "Then, Brotherбн"

    "They fought for only one round, and when they saw youing, they ran away."

    "Itбпs good that Brother is okay."

    "Iбпm fine, but you all need to be careful because the Blood Demon Ancestor has started targeting experts."

    "Sigh, I had anticipated it before, but I couldnбпt catch up to him. Otherwise, we could have teamed up to kill him."

    "There will be a solution, the Art of Blood Escape is not all-powerful. Once they find a way to restrain it, it will be doomed."

    Zhou Huaiying said, and those around him nodded. Now they needed to find a treasure to restrain the Art of Blood Escape. As long as they couldnбпt escape, even the powerful Blood Demon Ancestor couldnбпt stop their siege. If things got really bad, thereбпs Tao Achieving Ancestor to help.

    "Itбпs okay, let others stay away, I still have something to do, Iбпll go back to the sect first."

    Zhou Huaiying looked around at themotion and felt a bit unhappy. He told the others to leave, and he quickly returned to Tianxuan Sect.

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 Chapter 289:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You Town, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Dongyan reached the Nascent Soul stage breakthrough. This news quickly reached Xiaotian City. Unfortunately, Xiaotian City was busy at the moment and didnбпt have time to pay attention. Lin Jiang, as Lin Dongyanбпs uncle, congratted him.

    "Come, letбпs wee todayбпs protagonist, our friend Lin Dongyan the Taoist."

    Lin Jiang reserved a floor of the Gathering Tower. Both the big and small stewards from the tradingpany came, including some members of the Lin family. As for the hired helpers, each of them received a red envelope. Lin Jiang didnбпt need to call them, because some of the things discussed were confidential.

    "Uncle, spent too much, spent too much"

    Lin Dongyan was a bit awkward, he was a tech guy, not familiar with this kind of asion.

    "Why spend? Weбпre all family here,e, letбпs congratte Ancestor Lin"

    Lin Jiang didnбпt care whether Lin Dongyan felt ufortable, it had to be lively and festive.The Lin family descendants approached to celebrate and brought gifts, it was like a feast, and you had to give a gift when attending a feast.

    "Hey, Wei Lin, donбпt just focus on eating, whereбпs the gift money?"

    Lin Jiang lightly pushed Wei Lin, who was burying his head in eating. What a guy, pretending to be dead when it was time to give gift money.

    "What gift money? As a Soul Changing,ing to congratte Nascent Soul, isnбпt that a great face for them?"

    "Look, the doorбпs over there, get lost"

    "Oh no, this is so embarrassing."

    "Stop talking nonsense. If you think Iбпll get something for free, youбпre dreaming. Iбпve always been the one getting things for free from others."

    Lin Jiang stood with his hands on his hips, as if he wanted to chase this person away. This party wasnбпt meant for outsiders, he came here himself and wanted to get something for free?

    "Alright, alright, Dongyan, I donбпt have much money left. Itбпs all been taken by your great-uncle. All I have is this alchemy technique to give you. Itбпs the true teachings of my Taixu Sect."

    "Oh, Senior Wei Lin, this doesnбпt seem right."

    Lin Dongyan was pleasantly surprised, this gift was too valuable.

    "Take it, we have plenty of useless disciples in the Taixu Sect now. Keeping it wonбпt be of any use."

    Lin Jiang immediately snatched the jade scroll and handed it directly to Lin Dongyan.

    "What kind of talk is this? What do you mean Iбпm useless in the Taixu Sect? The disciples of the Taixu Sect havenбпt grown up yet."

    Wei Lin was very unhappy. Taixu Sect also had a sixth level Alchemist back then, but they died and couldnбпt escape. Afterwards, they also put in effort to cultivate, but it hasnбпt been long enough for them to grow.

    "I canбпt be bothered with you, Small Shadiao. And what about you? Give me a gift quickly."

    "Really? Iбпm your son. If you give a gift, itбпs as if I give one too, right?"

    "Whoбпs your dad? I donбпt have a son like you. Tell me, how many times have you visited me since you got married?"

    "Well, then I donбпt care. I donбпt have money. You keep deducting from it."

    "If you donбпt have money, then pluck your own hair!"

    "Are you serious? No, no, no!"

    Small Shadiao became anxious and quickly took out something from a storage bag.

    "Dongyan brother, these are my shed ws. They are fourth level ws. Please donбпt look down on them."

    "Not dislike, not dislike."

    Lin Dongyan quickly picked up theponents from the fourth-level monster, which were worth at least tens of thousands of spirit stones. They were very valuable. ?ив

    "Oh, Small Shadiao, you even have sharp ws. When did you lose your beak? Give it to me."

    "Itбпs gone, itбпs gone."

    "Really gone?"

    "Really gone. I exchanged it for money, to support the family, right, dear?"

    Small Shadiao said to the Snow Woman beside him. The Snow Woman was still very shy, not daring to look up, only nodding softly.

    "Forget it, Iбпll let you go."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and let Small Shadiao go, but from now on, he would take care of any parts that fell off Small Shadiaoбпs body. They are good stuff.

    "Dad, and what about you, donбпt you give a gift too?"

    "Just kidding, I arranged the whole feast myself, why would I give anything?"

    "Then how about ordering a dish of боcloud and mistбп, I heard itбпs really delicious."

    "Sure, I could just chop off your wings and that should be enough for a meal, what do you think?"

    "Haha, I was just joking."

    "Hey, get lost!"

    Lin Jiang waved his hand, he couldnбпt bear to order the боcloud and mistбп dish since it was a joint effort with Zhou Huaiying and many others chipping in money.

    After eating and drinking, there was no second course. Lin Jiang couldnбпt afford to invite all the people to Zhongmiao Building, plus there were family members to consider. He couldnбпt bring trouble to other peopleбпs children.

    "Thank you, Uncle."

    When Lin Dongyan got back home, he specially came to thank Lin Jiang.

    "Donбпt rush to thank me, do you know that the Lin family caused quite amotion over a Nascent Soul Achieving Pill?"

    "I know, I canбпt make any reckless remarks about this matter."

    Lin Dongyan said, he couldnбпt really understand Lin Batianбпs actions. Such precious treasures are decided by the higher-ups, there is no way they would let them discuss it themselves. Isnбпt this clearly a tactic to provoke infighting among them?

    "I canбпt say much about this matter, but you are lucky, you know."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he also thought Lin Batianбпs move was foolish. He had managed to get hold of the pill himself, but it caused division within the Lin family. As long as Lin Batian is alive, he may be able to suppress it, but if he were to die one day, it would surely worsen the conflicts.

    "I understand."

    "Since you understand, then you should do more. Internal conflicts within a family mostlye from insufficient resources. Just imagine, if there were enough Nascent Soul Achieving Pills this time, wouldnбпt it have avoided this conflict?"

    "Yes."

    "So, you have to hurry up and practice alchemy. Being a sixth-level Alchemist is no small feat. To prevent this kind of thing from happening again, you need to earn more money and contribute more to the Lin family."

    "This is the duty of the Lin family descendants."

    Lin Dongyan immediately said, he thought this sentence made sense. If there were enough resources for everyone to use pills, there would be no conflicts. And now, this heavy responsibility was on his shoulders, so he had to work hard.

    "Thatбпs right, our uncle believes in you."

    "Uncle, rest assured, Dongyan will never bezy."

    "Sure, our uncle is going all out to help you. He has arranged a few alchemy tasks for you this time, all of them are sixth-level pills. Donбпt mess up while practicing, understand?"

    "Oh, so fast!"

    Lin Dongyan was a bit dumbfounded. He had tried to refine sixth-level pills before, but all of them failed.

    "Are you still worried about making money quickly, Dongyan? Time waits for no one. Donбпt worry, our uncle has arranged everything for you in the futureбн"

    Lin Jiang immediately said to Lin Dongyan, he has already nned it, this time he is making a sixth-grade pill, he almost wonбпt make any money, just to gain some reputation.

    Once the reputation is established, he will promote Lin Dongyan. In the high-level pill market of You State, he will definitely take a share. He must not waste such a good employee like Lin Dongyan.

    "Uncle, I, Iбн"

    "Whatбпs wrong, nervous,cking confidence?"

    "Yes, I have only tried making the sixth-grade pill three times, and all three times I failed."

    "Young one, remember, you are the most talented alchemist in the Lin family. You have to believe in yourself, donбпt be afraid of failure. Uncle will support you. If you fail, at most you will work for Uncle for one hundred and eighty years, right? Now you are a Nascent Soul, you can live for hundreds of years. Donбпt be afraid."

    "Uncleбн"

    "Others donбпt have this opportunity. Just think about it, others donбпt even have a chance to work without payment. Would I invest in them? No, because they are useless. You are a genius, this is a special treatment for you."

    "Uncleбн"

    Lin Dongyan was about to cry. Stop talking, he has epted it, hasnбпt he?

    "Keep going, worker."

    Lin Jiang patted Lin Dongyanбпs shoulder and said. Come on, Dongyan, work hard and practice alchemy well. Our fortune depends on you in the future.

    "Yes, Uncle, Dongyan will definitely not let you down."

    Lin Dongyan clenched his fists. For the Lin family, and to not disappoint his uncle, he must work hard.

    "Alright, go rest. We will start practicing alchemy tomorrow."

    Lin Jiang smiled. This is settled now. We wonбпtck money anymore. Raising a sixth-rank Alchemist is like cultivating a treasure trove. It also guarantees a steady supply of medicine for him in the future.

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 Chapter 290:

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    North State, Xiaotian City

    It was time for Lin Jiang to report his work again. He told Lin Batian about the business situation of the year. This year, the revenue of the business in Xuanmiao City far exceededst year, and the profit was about to reach two hundred million spirit stones.

    The main reason for this was naturally because of Lin Dongyan, who was a sixth-level Alchemist. He brought great benefits. Not only did he work hard in alchemy like an old ox, but he also elevated Lin Jiangбпs business to the ranks of major businesses in Xuanmiao City. The brand effect he brought was excellent, and the entire business was on the rise.

    As long as Lin Dongyanбпs level as a sixth-level Alchemist continues to improve, their business will also earn more profit.

    "Alright, I understand."

    "Is the head of the family worried about something?"

    "Yes, on your end, the ie has increased, but on the side of Xiaotian City, the ie has decreased a lot. A few years ago, it was the Blood Demon Ancestor causing trouble, and now itбпs that Killing Demon Su Chang."

    "Hasnбпt Su Chang caught him yet?""No, heбпs even faster than the others, couldnбпt catch him."

    Lin Batian felt a headache. There were so many monsters and demons in North State, and each one had a way to escape. They couldnбпt catch them.

    "Donбпt worry, dearndlord. The evil ways cannot stir up any trouble."

    "Xiaotian City is safe, but the people in North State have suffered greatly from their harm. Their ie has sharply decreased. I am now trapped and dare not leave. Lin Wu, do you have any way to deal with them?"

    "I donбпt know about the Blood Demon Ancestor, but that Su Chang seems to have a solution."

    "What solution?"

    "That guy is a crazy murderer. So, to find him, we need to be even crazier than him."

    Lin Jiang said, using some detective thinking. A crazy killer should be reasoned with a crazy mindset. Of course, Lin Jiang could only offer ideas, he couldnбпt do the actual work.

    "Be even crazier? Are you saying we should eliminate all the Human Demon Tribe in North State, leaving him with no one to kill?"

    "Ahemбн"

    Lin Jiang was shocked. Was his own father really that crazy?

    "Isnбпt it?"

    "Master, with words like that, even weirdos would be scared. Weбпre just thinking this way to guess where Su Chang might go, not that heбпs really that weird."

    "Oh, I see. Then Iбпll think about it."

    Lin Batian nodded, he wasnбпt that weird.

    "Nothing important, Iбпll go first."

    "Letбпs find Lin Die and Lin Ying when we have time. They havenбпte back for many years."

    "The Master didnбпt find them when he left Xiaotian City before?"

    "She wouldnбпt meet me, sheбпs still angry."

    "Well, thereбпs nothing I can do then."

    Lin Jiang answered firmly, saying he would not get involved and would handle his own affairs.

    "Lin Wu, Lin Die and the children in the household donбпt have a close rtionship, but you have a good rtionship with them. Just do me a favor."

    "Master, as a single person, I really canбпt handle these emotional issues, even if itбпs a father-daughter bond."

    "In that case, if you help me persuade Lin Die, I will pass on the secret arts of the four great families. Our secret arts are the best in the cultivation world, there is currently nothing surpassing us. You can choose one door, and if you also persuade Lin Ying, I will pass on another door to you. How about it?" ?

    "Master, you are really putting me in a difficult position."

    "I will pass on all four family secret arts to you, as long as you donбпt teach them to others."

    "Then let me give it a try."

    Lin Jiang was somewhat tempted. He had alwayscked high-end secret arts. They were not avable outside, no matter how much money he had. The secret arts from the Five Elements Sect werenбпt as powerful as those from the Lin family.

    "Give it a try. Their feud is not the same as overnight grudges between father and daughter. It would be aughingstock if it became known, donбпt you think?"

    "Yes, how could there be long-standing grudges between father and daughter."

    Lin Jiang nodded, the current situation of the Lin family was indeed not suitable for internal fighting. Xiao Lingyueбпs matter had already settled and couldnбпt be changed. Lin Die and the others shouldnбпt run away, but shoulde back and confront Xiao Lingyue.

    "Alright, I will give you their location. You go and try to persuade them."

    "Yes, head of the family. I will go and attend to my duties first."

    Lin Jiang nodded, if he were to leave, he needed to prepare himself first.

    Liang State is located west of Zhongzhou. Its history is not very long, only a few tens of thousands of years. The main reason for this is rted to the direction of human development.

    The power of humans originated in Zhongzhou, expanding to the south and east, creating prosperous states like Qing State and Bing State. When their expansion to the east was blocked, they turned towards the north and south. As a result, there came to be You State and North State to the north, and Yun State and Nan State to the south.

    When the expansion of these states slowed down, the cultivators gradually shifted their focus westward, pioneering Liang State. The name Liang Statees from the scarcity of resources in this area.

    But scarcity doesnбпt mean there is none. There are still many cultivators here,ing for adventure and wealth.

    In Liang State, there is a race called the Stone Spirit, they are like monsters yet not monsters. People refer to them as "Spirit". They are exceptionally powerful, especially in defense, and are a major specialty of Liang State.

    In a certain ce in Liang State Wilderness, there is arge gathering of stone creatures. They are extremely tall, with the shortest being about 30-40 Zhang high. They are anxiously looking at a ce ahead, where dozens of giant stones are shining brightly.

    At the same time, hidden within the clouds in the sky above, there is an airship. Inside the airship, there are more than ten people staring at the giant stones below.

    "These are the Stone Monsters of Liang State. They cannot reproduce like humans and monsters. New Stone Monsters are born in between the heavens and the earth, formed by some peculiar stones absorbing the essence of the sun and moon."

    "The shining giant stones below are the new Stone Monsters. They have yet to fully develop. Once an opportunityes and they go through a thunder tribtion, they can be new Stone Monsters. Once they are fully formed, they will possess the strength of the Nascent Soul stage."

    "The unformed Stone Monsters absorb the essence of the sun and moon. There are good things inside their bodies, whether itбпs the Stone Soul or Stone Milk, they are the top-notch treasures. After we seed, I will take 30%, and the remaining 70% will be distributed among you."

    Inside the airship, one person said. He is the only Soul Changing cultivator among the more than ten people. This operation was organized by him, and Lin Die also nodded and agreed to this n.

    Soul Changing Ancestors are actually quite valuable. Aside from the prosperous Qing State and a few other states in Zhongzhou, there are only about a dozen or so in the other states, easily totaling over ten thousand people.

    The people finished discussing and didnбпt start right away because the Stone Monsters werenбпt fully formed yet. They had to wait until the Stone Monsters werepletely formed and the heavenly cmity was triggered. Only then would it be the best time to act, and the already formed Stone Monsters around them would also leave.

    It wasnбпt until a dayter when the clouds in the sky changed color and dark clouds rolled in that the Stone Monsters below slowly retreated. Even though they were powerful, they didnбпt dare to directly face the heavenly cmity.

    "Itбпs now, letбпs take action."

    With a loud shout from the Soul Changing Ancestor, the people on the flying boat immediately attacked,unching more than ten powerful attacks.

    "Boom!"

    Over ten people focused their attacks on three giant stones, causing them to shatter instantly, losing their mysterious properties.

    "Roar! Roar! Roar!"

    The formed Stone Monsters outside were filled with anger and sorrow. They couldnбпt reproduce naturally, and the growth of their tribe relied entirely on luck and the blessings of the heavens. As a result, the Stone Monsters were extremely rare. These unfinished Stone Monsters had been nurtured for millions of years, but they could be destroyed in just a moment.

    The enraged Stone Monsters charged forward, and the cultivators fought back with all their might. The leading Soul Changing Ancestor threw out a set of formation disks, creating a protective barrier. He shouted. Retrieve the treasures, I can only hold on for fifteen minutes.

    Over ten people each had their own tasks. Two of them went forward to exterminate the unformed Stone Monsters, while the rest defended against the attacks of the formed Stone Monsters. These Stone Monsters were extremely powerful and were fiercely bombarding the formation.

    "Dragon girl, letбпs join forces."

    Someone said to Lin Die, who was using the alias Long Yan here instead of her real name.

    "Alright."

    Lin Die nodded. These unformed Stone Monsters didnбпt have attack abilities, but their defense was still formidable. A single Nascent Soul couldnбпt break through it, so it was necessary for two people to join forces to break it.

    The two simultaneously unleashed their ultimate move, once again shattering an unformed Stone Monster. Meanwhile, the formed Stone Monsters outside had already taken shape. One could see a Stone Monster over twenty zhang in size angrily hammering the formation. After only a few strikes, the formation shattered withoutsting for even fifteen minutes.

    "Puh"

    With no protection from the formation, a Nascent Soul was immediately sent flying by a Stone Monsterбпs fist. The Stone Monsters didnбпt need weapons; their fists were their best weapons, paired with unparalleled strength, making them formidable.

    "Canбпt hold on any longer, retreat."

    Lin Die could tell from the battle that they were no match for them. The Nascent Soul cultivators were also fleeing one by one. Lin Die picked up a piece of broken stone and soared into the sky.

    The Stone Monster kept attacking, and it had a special power to move and hurl giant rocks. Dozens of Stone Monsters used this move, causing the sky to rain down like a meteor shower, and some people were hit and fell down directly.

    "Boom"

    Lin Die also got hit by a stone, and her shield in front of her broke into pieces. She flew out like a shooting star.

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 Chapter 291:

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    The Liang Kingdom

    Lin Die fell from the sky and felt a lot of pain in her body. The Stone Monster kept attacking, throwing huge rocks at her.

    Lin Die took out a bunch of special amulets and used their power to shatter the rocks. But before she could stand up again, another Stone Monster attacked her. The Stone Monsters saw Lin Die as their enemy because she smelled like one of them.

    Lin Die swung her sword, trying to hit the Stone Monster, but it had no effect. The Stone Monster just shook itself and came at her again. Lin Die quickly used her skills to dodge it.

    Seeing an opportunity, Lin Die jumped into the air. But when she was halfway up, a giant hand pressed down on her. Lin Die tried to block it with her sword, but she was knocked down to the ground.

    "Fairy Long, give me the bag, I will distract the Stone Monsters for you."

    The surrounding cultivators gathered around to protect Lin Die. They didnбпt want their previous efforts to go to waste.

    "I canбпt ept such kindness from my Taoist friend. Letбпs escape first and talkter."Lin Die immediately replied, being cautious about the people around her. Lin Die and these people were not close friends, just ordinary friends with a slightly stronger connection than strangers. She knew the importance of being cautious.

    "The Stone Monster is invulnerable to water and fire, and difficult to harm with a spear. Today will not be easy."

    "Letбпs fight them. We only have one hour left before the disaster strikes, and they wonбпt have the energy to bother with us anymore."

    "Hold on for one more hour, and the path to survival is right in front of us."

    Everyone encouraged themselves. They couldnбпt kill all the unfinished Stone Monsters, and some were still going through the cmity. Once the disaster arrived, the Stone Monsters would retreat.

    This was a lesson from the Liang State cultivators, paid with their own blood. These Stone Monsters must go through the cmity once they take form, so they fear the disaster greatly. Once the disaster arrives, they be timid, and they go to guard the unfinished Stone Monsters, which is their only chance to escape.

    Although hope was within reach, the process was extremely difficult. Dozens of powerful Stone Monsters attacked relentlessly. They had exhausted all their techniques, using one defensive formation after another. Countless shields had been shattered, and spiritual talismans were used freely as if they were worthless.

    "Help me with your power, and use water magic."

    Seeing that they were losing the battle, Lin Die clenched her teeth and said to everyone. They had no doubts and someone scattered familiar water spiritual talismans, causing a heavy downpour in the sky.

    "Very Cold Blue Fire"

    Lin Die used the Very Cold Blue Fire, and in an instant, the raindrops in the sky froze. Using their divine power, Lin Die created a wall of ice with a lot of raindrops in front of them.

    "So cold"

    "This is the Very Cold Blue Fire, even our Nascent Souls canбпt handle it."

    "Stop talking, make the ice thicker."

    Everyone continued to use their techniques to make the ice thicker. The ice created by the Very Cold Blue Fire was not ordinary ice, it was even harder than normal ice, and the extreme cold made the Stone Monster very ufortable. It seemed like even their stone bodies were going to crack, giving everyone hope.

    "Boom"

    Finally, the heavenly cmity descended. The Stone Monster, worried about their tribe, were restless. They didnбпt want to let these humans get away, but they also worried about their own kind, caught between a rock and a hard ce.

    Stone Monsters are not very smart, otherwise, if they had just split up a group of people, Lin Die and the others would have been doomed.

    "Protect me."

    Seeing this, the leader Soul Changing unleashed a powerful attack, infusing all his spirit energy into his flying sword. It transformed into a huge beam of light, slicing one of the Stone Monsters into pieces. While the other Stone Monsters were still startled, everyone quickly flew up and escaped. ?????

    They fled for thousands of miles, finally leaving the territory of the Stone Monsters. The group stopped and counted their members. They had lost three people, and the rest had all sustained injuries.

    Without prompting, everyone took out healing potions and swallowed them. The leader, Soul Changing, said. We were lucky today. Letбпs divide the spoils.

    "Okay."

    Lin Die and another person took out a storage bag and retrieved the giant stones from it. The stones were already broken and no longer radiated any dazzling light. They appeared like ordinary rocks.

    Someone took out a jade bottle and collected the stone milk from the giant stones. This stone milk was the essence of the unformed Stone Monsters and was highly valuable. Besides that, there were Stone Souls иC the equivalent of Demon Cores for the Stone Monsters иC which were also very valuable.

    "ording to the previous agreement, Iбпll take 30% of these things. Any objections?"

    "No objections, elder."

    "Okay, then Iбпll take 30%, and you guys can split the rest evenly."

    "I donбпt mind the senior taking 30%, but I want an extra share. I used the Extreme Cold Blue me, and one piece of that is worth millions of spirit stones in Zhongzhou. I shouldnбпt lose out, right?"

    Lin Die said at this moment. These people are not her own, so she doesnбпt need to be polite. Soul Changing deserves more, itбпs only natural. He is the main force in this matter, but others didnбпt contribute as much as her, so of course she should get more.

    "Friend Taoist Long, this is not in line with the rules."

    "Exactly, you brought out the Extreme Cold Blue me by yourself, itбпs not like we forced you."

    "Even if you donбпt use the Extreme Cold Blue me, it will still be your death, it has nothing to do with us."

    The other Nascent Souls were not pleased. These things are of great value, missing out on even one share means losing money. Naturally, they donбпt want Lin Die to get more.

    "Adventuring and treasure-seeking is supposed to be divided based on merit. The senior gets more because he has the highest cultivation level and contributed the most. Ie next in terms of contribution, so whatбпs wrong with me getting more?"

    "Your affairs have nothing to do with me."

    The leader, Soul Changing, quickly picked up his own and left.

    The atmosphere suddenly became tense, everyone looked anxiously at each other. It ismon to encounter situations where people only stick together during difficulties but not during times of prosperity. Betrayal is the mostmon thing.

    "Dragon Taoist friend, do you really want more?"

    "This is what I deserve, why not?"

    "Then letбпs both stay behind."

    The other several Nascent Soul immediately shouted loudly. Someone made a palm strike towards Lin Die, and a hidden silver needle flew towards her in the palm.

    Lin Die was prepared long ago. She formed a protective energy barrier in front of her, blocking the attack. She also quickly stepped back, expanding her mental power and trying to gather those jade bottles.

    It wasnбпt just her using mental power, all the Nascent Souls were doing the same. Now itбпs a battle of mental power intensity.

    "Peak of Nascent Soul."

    At this moment, everyone was shocked to discover that Lin Die was not in the mid-stage of the Nascent Soul realm as previously shown, but at the peak of the Nascent Soul realm, with the highest cultivation level among everyone.

    "Go."

    Lin Die took most of the spoils, holding the flying sword and unleashing a frenzy of attacks. The immense sword energy spread in all directions, forcing all the surrounding Nascent Soul cultivators to retreat.

    "If youбпre not afraid of death,e along."

    Lin Die didnбпt linger. After driving everyone back, she quickly escaped. She didnбпt have the same domineering aura as her father. While she could easily fight against more than ten Nascent Soul cultivators alone, it was better to run first.

    "What should we do?"

    "Retreat for now. Someone else will deal with her."

    The group exchanged a nce and sneered. Was this temporary team really temporary? Perhaps not. They turned their attention towards other fleeing Nascent Soul cultivators, revealing a ruthless expression.

    "Dragon Taoist friend, stop!"

    A figure blocked Lin Dieбпs way, and Lin Die stopped.

    "Are you trying to deceive your seniors as well?"

    "Not at all, I am interested in the Extreme Cold Blue me in your hand. Can you sell me a piece?"

    "Iбпm sorry, thereбпs only one left."

    "Is that so? I donбпt believe you."

    "It seems that you seniors are intending to deal with me. You are all in cahoots, right?"

    "Pretty much."

    The leader, Soul Changing, said that there were about ten people, half of whom were his people, and the other half were temporary members. These people were both helpers and their prey. Now he came to hunt the biggest prey.

    "Looks like a battle canбпt be avoided."

    "I advise my friend Dragon Taoist to surrender, itбпs better that way. I will value and protect him."

    "Hehe"

    Lin Die sneered, slowly pulled out her sword, and prepared to fight.

    The leader Soul Changing looked down upon Nascent Soul, thinking that even if they were powerful, it wouldnбпt matter. However, just as he was about to make his move, his expression suddenly changed. He turned around and swung his sword.

    "Boom"

    An invisible arrow of light appeared and collided with Soul Changingбпs sword energy. It created a burst of colorful light in mid-air. When Soul Changing turned back, Lin Die had already leaped onto the back of a giant bird.

    "Fourth-level Aurora falcon"

    "Remember, a gentleman seeks revenge and itбпs never toote. When I break through Soul Changing, I will kill you."

    Lin Die left some words behind, while Big Shadiao made a roundabout and Lin Ying, who was hiding in the dark, quickly flew onto Big Shadiaoбпs back. They turned into a blur and disappeared.

    "Third Sister, are you okay?"

    "No big deal."

    Lin Die shook her head. The Stone Monster hurt her badly with a hit, but it wasnбпt time to heal yet.

    "I can sense your agitation, youбпre not fine. You should heal first."

    "No rush, letбпs retreat first. That person probably wonбпt give up easily."

    "Okay."

    Lin Ying nodded and stopped talking. She sent a message to Big Shadiao, instructing him to go to the central city. The central city had many big cities, so they wouldnбпt be bothered by Soul Changing.

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 Chapter 292:

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    Danxia Sect in Zhongzhou.

    The Danxia Sect is the most famous sect in Zhongzhou. Their city, Tianxian City, is currently having a once-in-a-century celebration. Just like the centennial celebration in Yunzhong City, the big cities in Zhongzhou also hold various celebrations to attract people and increase trade.

    Lin Jiang followed the crowd and saw the prosperous era in Tianxian City. Only then did he realize how deste North State was. The poption of just one city here already exceeded all the cultivators in North State.

    Finding Lin Die was not difficult because Lin Jiang had a locator given by Lin Batian. This locator was based on the Soul Lamp and had a certain time limit. Only close rtives would give such a device.

    "Sister"

    Small Shadiao was the first to see Big Shadiao. His face immediately showed bitterness and he avoided eye contact. He was truly afraid of his sister.

    "Brother"

    Big Shadiao noticed Small Shadiaoбпs reaction and came running over to give him a rough rub. Small Shadiao immediately sent Lin Jiang a pleading look for help.Lin Jiang ignored him. If he needed to be dealt with, he would be. Lin Jiang then saluted and continued forward.

    "Auntie Three, Auntie Ten"

    "Why are you here?"

    "Iбпve been sent by our leader to persuade you to go back."

    "I wonбпt go back."

    "I wonбпt go back either."

    "Donбпt be like this, I have received benefits."

    Lin Jiang blurted out, and the two women immediately stared at him. Was this matter very honorable?

    "Really, in exchange for a favor, the head of the family is willing to pass on the secret technique to me and persuade you to go back."

    "So, theyбпre selling us?"

    "Well, itбпs not really selling. Fathers and daughters shouldnбпt hold grudges overnight, right?"

    "We can go back, but ask him to drive that woman away."

    Lin Ying said. I donбпt like Xiao Lingyue. With her around, Lin Batian can only choose one of us.

    "Tenth Auntie, youбпre in the wrong with this. Although I donбпt like Xiao Lingyue either, the head of the family has already epted her. She hasnбпt done anything wrong, so we canбпt just drive her away for no reason."

    "Whose side are you on?"

    "Of course, Iбпm on your side. We just have to respect the facts. This matter has already been settled. Xiao Lingyue has the Soul Changing technique, which is helpful to the Lin family. The head of the family canбпt just drive her away because of a few words. So, we need to change our strategy. If you all leave, it would mean leaving the Lin family under Xiao Lingyueбпs control, right? This is helping Xiao Lingyue."

    "Even if you describe it as if itбпs beautiful, I wonбпt go back."

    Lin Ying sneered, could casual words really change her mind and thoughts?

    "Actually, what Lin Wu said is right. By leaving, we are helping Xiao Lingyue. We should go back."

    "Has Third Auntiee to her senses?"

    "Yes, but we wonбпt go back now. Our skills are not enough. We canбпt defeat Xiao Lingyue. We need to break through Soul Changing first. When we do, we can shut Xiao Lingyue up. The most important thing for a cultivator is strength."

    "Third Sister is right. Donбпt waste your words, little traitor. Third Sister has been so good to you."

    "Tenth Auntie has wrongly used me. I am not a traitor."

    "Then why are you speaking up for Xiao Lingyue?"

    "No, I already said it. I received some benefits. Itбпs called epting someoneбпs money to solve their problems. I did what I could, and if I couldnбпt seed, itбпs not my fault. Now Iбпm on your side."

    "Youбн"

    Lin Ying was almost driven to anger. What kind of twisted logic was this? Youбпve said all the reasoning, so you must be a good person, right?

    "Lin Wu, stop fooling around. Tenth Auntie is just teasing. If I really gave you a beating, you wouldnбпt have anywhere to reason with."

    "Haha, I was just joking earlier. Tenth Auntie, donбпt be mad."

    "No need to be angry with you, you can go back now."

    "Donбпt go, itбпs not easy toe out, are Third Auntie and Tenth Auntie looking for Soul Changing opportunities here?"

    "Iбпve found my opportunity, now Iбпm helping Lin Ying. Tianxian City in the Danxia Sect is even bigger and higher than Yunzhong City. We need to gather a few spiritual herbs. Maybe we can get a batch of Seven Star Sky Awakening Pills."

    "I havenбпt heard of this medicine, Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill."

    "Itбпs a very rare kind of medicine that even alchemists may not know about. But the Danxia Sect has made it before. Lin Ying has found the main ingredient, but we still need a few auxiliary herbs."

    Lin Die exined that the medicines in the cultivation world keep changing. The changes in the environment can make some herbs change too. Itбпs difficult to gather enough medicine for a batch, so smart alchemists would change the ingredients. Over time, some medicines be very niche or even disappear. Only those who actively search or skilled alchemists would know.

    "Are these herbs expensive?"

    "They start at the sixth level, what do you think?"

    "It seems Tenth Auntie is facing difficulties. Let me support her."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he knew Lin Die didnбпt have much money, maybe even less than him. After all, Lin Jiang had a bigpany there and was good at handling money.

    "You keep that little money for yourself."

    "Third Auntie, I already told youst time, donбпt underestimate people. Here, Tenth Auntie, take it."

    "I donбпt want your money."

    "Consider it a loan from me. These are all good things, not just spirit stones. They are various rare materials, with a starting value of a million spirit stones."

    Lin Jiang said, spirit stones werenбпt very useful to them, unless they were Premium Spirit Stones. So over the years, Lin Jiang had been trying to convert his money into rare materials. All his wealth in Xuanmiao City was invested in them.

    "So many?"

    "Hmm, itбпs my entire fortune. Itбпs worth about two billion spirit stones. Even the Small Shadiaoбпs rations will have to be deducted."

    "Then I definitely canбпt take it."

    "Donбпt leave, you breaking through Soul Changing is my support, my way to make money. If you donбпt break through, who will support me?"

    Lin Jiang said, he understood this very well. He had a business in Xuanmiao City, pretending to be from Xiaotian City. Otherwise, with only his golden core, how could he handle this kind of business? The stronger Xiaotian City bes, the more stable his position in Xuanmiao City.

    "Lin Ying, forget it, consider it owed a favor. Breaking through your cultivation is more important. The Tianxian City celebration only happens once every hundred years. If you miss this time, youбпll have to wait another hundred years. How many more hundred years do you have to spare?"

    "Yes, Third Auntie is right, weбпre all family, thereбпs no need to be polite."

    Lin Jiang said, she was his own sister, he would spoil her the most. Itбпs not just about a little money, even if it were his life, he would give it.

    "Alright, then I will ept it, and repay you ten times over in the future."

    "Donбпt be so formal."

    "Third Sister, I need to go and prepare for the auction."

    "Go ahead."

    Lin Die nodded and Lin Ying quickly left. Before, she was worried about what to sell, but now Lin Jiang has solved her urgent problem.

    "How has Xiaotian City been while I was away?"

    "Not goodбн"

    Lin Jiang exined everything that had happened in the past two years. Blood Demon Ancestor and Killing Demon Su Chang caused great damage to North State. Xiaotian Cityбпs ie decreased significantly. Lin Batian made a foolish move by letting Lin Chaosheng and the others decide the fate of the infant treasure, which created hidden dangers for Xiaotian City.

    "Father is really confused. How can he let Lin Chaosheng and the others decide this kind of thing?"

    "I donбпt know either. Maybe itбпs to prevent Lin Chaosheng and the others from resenting the head of the family. After all, resources are limited and it wouldnбпt be good for anyone."

    "Resources are always insufficient. We must make choices. As long as the rules are set, we just have to follow them."

    "Third Auntie is right. Thatбпs why we need you to go back and oversee the overall situation. The head of the family is responsible for conquering the world, but he may not be as skilled in management."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Lin Batian is very skilled in battle, no doubt about that. But when ites to management, heбпs just average. Perhaps thatбпs just how things are иC everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. No one is perfect.

    "Wait until Lin Ying has finished making the Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill, then we will both go into seclusion together."

    "Have you found a ce for seclusion? Advancing to Soul Changing requires a high-quality environment."

    "In Tianxian City, there are top-level caves for rent, but the prices are very expensive. It costs hundreds of thousands of spirit stones per year. To break through Soul Changing, we need to rent for at least ten years, as well as some auxiliary elixirs and necessary items. Without millions of spirit stones, it wonбпt be enough."

    "No more money?"

    "In these years, Lin Ying and I have been constantly on the move, almost using up all our savings."

    Lin Die said. Iбпm alright. Itбпs just been a few years since I left home, but Lin Ying has been away for many years. He hasnбпt returned to the Lin family nor taken any money from them. Heбпs truly be a poor ghost.

    "Little Shadiao,e here. Big Shadiao, stop hitting him."

    Lin Jiang beckoned to Little Shadiao, who happily trotted over. If he didnбпt run, his big sister would surely beat him to death.

    "Father, you finally saved me."

    "Donбпt make a fuss, I know you have a piggy bank, spit it out."

    "Ah."

    "Donбпt force me to take action, just hand it over yourself."

    "Sister, you better just hit me."

    Small Shadiao specifically wanted to run, he would rather be beaten by his older sister again than go bankrupt. He doesnбпt want to be a poor guy.

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 Chapter 293:

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    Zhongzhou, Tianxian City

    Tianxian Cityбпs celebration only happens once every hundred years, so Lin Jiang didnбпt want to miss the opportunity. Heбпs also a person who loves lively atmospheres.

    After settling down, Lin Jiang took Small Shadiao out. Small Shadiao is quite skilled at hiding his secret money, so Lin Jiang needs to find a way to empty it, or else this kid will try to talk to the little fairy without any concern. Lin Jiang has a responsibility to make him a good person.

    "Finished eating, pay the bill."

    "What?"

    "Look for yourself. I only had one bowl, but you had over twenty. If you donбпt pay, then who will?"

    Lin Jiang pointed at the leftover food on the table and said to Small Shadiao. The food in Tianxian City is pretty good. Itбпs definitely not a food desert. When youe here, you should try the food. And of course, if you can get a free meal, go for it.

    "I donбпt have any money, so I wonбпt pay.""Alright, boss. I canбпt pay the bill, so let him wash dishes."

    Lin Jiang said to the waiter nearby. The waiterбпs face turned gloomy. You guys are a Golden Core cultivator and a Nascent Soul cultivator, yet you still want to eat for free? This meal doesnбпt cost many spirit stones, after all.

    "Youбпre tough, Iбпll endure it."

    Small Shadiao was shocked by Lin Jiangбпs shamelessness and took out two spirit stones to pay the bill.

    "Hahahaбн"

    Lin Jiangughed loudly and walked away, patting his bottom.

    "Hey Small Shadiao, have you heard of the famous fairies in Tianxian City? Would you be interested in having a heart-to-heart with them?"

    "No way! They just want to trick me into giving them money. I am a married man and I never do hical things like that."

    "Youбпre the one whopetes with Wei Lin over petty things! How dare you say such things?"

    Lin Jiang became extremely angry, thinking that this jerk must have colluded with Lin Kai at the party and intentionally didnбпt invite him. He was so furious.

    Small Shadiao was left speechless. He felt it was better to keep quiet. After all, he couldnбпt withdraw the money now. It wasnбпt easy to earn some savings and build a small nest egg. He had sold his feathers and ws for this money. It was like selling oneself.

    "Itбпs boring, letбпs go back."

    When Lin Jiang couldnбпt find Small Shadiao, he felt bored. He decided to bring him back and let Big Shadiao teach him a lesson. If he didnбпt listen, he would be punished.

    "Brother, brother."

    Big Shadiao saw Lin Jiange back and got so excited that he wanted to jump up. He kept rubbing against Lin Jiang. This is a habit from when they were young.

    "Where is my Third Auntie."

    Lin Jiang pushed Big Shadiaoбпs head away and said. Wake up! Youбпre a grown-up now, not a bird.

    "An annoying person hase. Hmph."

    "Annoying person, the leader?"

    "No, itбпs an annoying person."

    "Who?"

    "Just an annoying person."

    Big Shadiao wasnбпt very smart, so itбпs better for her to just fight.

    "Go, beat up your little brother, he didnбпt give money for todayбпs meal."

    "Oh my goodness!"

    Small Shadiao went crazy and ran as soon as she turned around.

    Lin Jiang went to find Lin Die, and there was a man beside her. Lin Jiang quickly looked him up and down, he was such a handsome man. If it werenбпt for his Adamбпs apple, Lin Jiang would have thought he was a woman.

    "This person

    "I am her nephew, who are you?"

    "I am Gu Hengbo, a disciple of the Danxia Sect."

    "Gu Hengbo, who is Gu Pingbo to you?"

    "Gu Pingbo is my second older brother, from the same father, whatбпs wrong?"

    "Nothing, I have been friends with Gu Pingbo for a long time."

    "Really? I havenбпt heard from him and havenбпt seen him for many years. Isnбпt he wandering the world?"

    Gu Hengbo was a bit doubtful. In fact, he wasnбпt very familiar with Gu Pingbo. Although they were brothers, there was a big age difference between them. After Gu Pingbo wandered in the Divine Kingdom for many years, he left Danxia Sect after a few years and went on to wander the world.

    "Whatбпs fake about it? Senior Gu Pingbo is now in Yun State, seeking a ce to retire."

    "Is that so?"

    Gu Hengbo frowned, unsure of what to say. Danxia Sect was a big family, but Nascent Soul cultivators were not that many. Gu Pingbo leaving the n and going to Yun State to retire left him at a loss for words.

    "Since you have a connection, you can talk first."

    Lin Die saw this and quickly ran away, Gu Hengbo opened his mouth but didnбпt react to the fact that Lin Die had already disappeared.

    "Are you really Long Yan girlбпs nephew?"

    "Of course, Iбпm called Dragon, but you can call me Long Wu."

    "Long Wu, youбпre the fifth in order, better than me. Iбпm the sixth brother."

    "Do they call you Gu Laoliu?"

    "Ahem, you canбпt be so disrespectful. I am a Nascent Soul, you should call me senior."

    "You want to be my uncle-inw and you still want to talk about manners?"

    "Ah, you, youбн"

    Gu Hengbo blushed deeply when he heard Lin Jiangбпs words. Can he really say something like that?

    "Why, donбпt you want to be my uncle?"

    "Ah, no, well, how could you do that?"

    "If you donбпt want to, let me tell you, there are many people pursuing my Third Auntie, and you donбпt stand a chance."

    "Is it true or false, are you lying to me?"

    "Lying to you? My Third Auntie is so beautiful, elegant, young, and has a cultivation of Nascent Soul. Do you think no one would pursue her?"

    "Well, how do you think of me, dear nephew?"

    Gu Hengbo waspletely fooled and immediately looked at Lin Jiang with a pleasing smile.

    "You, well, you seem alright."

    "How can it be just alright? Let me tell you, I am the chief Nascent Soul cultivator of the Danxia Sect."

    "No, I heard that the leader of the Nascent Soul in the Danxia Sect is not you."

    "Itбпs different, I am the chief alchemist. My second elder brother, Gu Pingbo, is quite talented in alchemy. He canбпtpare to me. Really, three years ago I could already refine sixth-grade superior pills."

    "Thatбпs so impressive."

    Lin Jiang was also a bit surprised. This guy seemed a bit effeminate, but he didnбпt expect his alchemy talent to be so impressive.

    "Thatбпs necessary. Otherwise, how can I be called the chief alchemist? Can you speak up for me, Third Auntie? I genuinely like you. You really suit my taste."

    "How do you like me?"

    "Confident and spirited, thatбпs what I like. Whatбпs the point of a woman being overly delicate? She should have some elegance."

    "Is that so?"

    Lin Jiang looked up at him. Your appearance doesnбпt really match the confident and spirited image, I guess Lin Die wouldnбпt like the delicate pretty boy vibe.

    "Donбпt look at me like that, I donбпt like men, I like confident women."

    "Cough cough, Iбпm a bit hungry."

    "I understand, letбпs go, my uncle will take you to have delicious food."

    "Itбпs too early to say, my aunt doesnбпt like arrogant people."

    "Alright, call Sixth Brother."

    "Okay, Gu Laoliu."

    Gu Hengbo held back, all for the sake of his beloved. He endured.

    Gu Hengbo took Lin Jiang to a big restaurant for a meal, Lin Jiang brought Small Shadiao along, since he eats a lot, itбпs good to have an extra food container.

    Gu Hengbo was very surprised when he saw Small Shadiao. There arenбпt many fourth-tier beast pets in the cultivation world, and only those who can afford them are not independent cultivators.

    However, he became even happier. Gu Family is a big n in the Danxia Sect. If they could form an alliance with another big n, their family would definitely not oppose it. On the contrary, if the other party had no background at all, they would rely on Gu Family for support instead of opposing it. This is called a perfect match.

    Of course, Lin Jiang was also not there just to freeload. He was also observing Gu Hengbo. If Lin Die could find a good home, he would be happy.

    However, the requirements for a good home were quite high. For example, they couldnбпt have multiple wives or indulge in worldly pursuits. Lin Jiang had some double standards in this regard. He could do it himself, but his brother-inw couldnбпt.

    After a meal, Lin Jiang tried to figure out Gu Hengboбпs situation. Gu Hengbo was indeed a talented member of the Gu Family, simr to Lin Dongyan in some ways. They were both tech-savvy guys, but had entric personalities and a feminine dressing style. Gu Hengbo wore more makeup than Lin Die, indicating that he was skilled in womenбпs fashion.

    However, this was just an initial assessment. Lin Jiang couldnбпt determine the specific situation yet. He needed more time to observe, as time reveals true colors.

    Gu Hengbo tried to extract information from Lin Jiang multiple times, but Lin Jiang skillfully avoided revealing too much. He didnбпt uncover Lin Dieбпs background either, as Lin Familyбпs identity was sensitive in the cultivation world due to their known conflicts with Qing State.

    After finishing the meal, Lin Jiang left Gu Hengbo and returned to the inn. Lin Ying had alreadye back and was discussing matters with Lin Die.

    "Auntie Three, Auntie Ten"

    "Where did you go?"

    "Went to eat with Gu Hengbo."

    "Youбпre not going to sell me after just one meal, right?"

    "Third Auntie, look at what youбпre saying. Am I that kind of person? But, on first impression, this Gu Hengbo is not bad. Heбпs not someone with deep schemes."

    "Such a fool."

    Lin Die rolled her eyes, no scheming, isnбпt that just a fool? Just a simple second generation protected by the family.

    "Third Auntie doesnбпt like this person?"

    "I have no interest in marriage in this lifetime."

    "Why? Although there are high-level female cultivators who donбпt get married, they are still in the minority."

    "You donбпt need a reason to not get married, but you do need a reason to get married."

    Lin Die said that she had already seen it clearly. As strong as her father was, with a dominating presence, there were so many messy rtionships in their family. Until now, she hadnбпt seen many high-ranking male cultivators who were clean in matters of the heart. They were all messing around, including her nephew in front of her, who would constantly go and have heart-to-heart talks with women.

    "Third Sister is right. Nowadays, male cultivators with abilities have three or four concubines, and those without abilities are worthless. They look repulsive. Women need to be independent and strong, they donбпt need men."

    "There are good men too. My master Zhang Wanjing was loyal to one person his whole life. And Li Ruoxu, isnбпt he the same?"

    "There are so many Nascent Soul male cultivators, how many of them are like this?"

    "Umбн"

    Lin Jiang was left speechless by this. It was true, there werenбпt many good men, and he wasnбпt one either.

    "Donбпt interfere in adult matters, and donбпt get involved with Gu Hengbo either. It will be hard to handleter."

    "Donбпt worry, itбпs just a meal. I wouldnбпt dare to take any advantages from it."

    Lin Jiang nodded, he wasnбпt foolish, having a meal or not didnбпt matter, he couldnбпt ept any real benefits.

    "Just missing thest ingredient, once we have it, we can start alchemy."

    Lin Ying sighed, after nning for so long, they were only missing thest ingredient, hoping nothing unexpected would happen.

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 Chapter 294:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Tianxian City in the Central Province

    After the grand celebration in Tianxian City, as a crafty merchant, Lin Jiang didnбпt gain any advantage this time, which made him heartbroken. After all, for a crafty merchant, not gaining any advantage meant losing out.

    Lin Die didnбпt buy anything either, she supported Lin Ying with all her money. Lin Ying spent a huge amount of money, draining the wealth of all three of them.

    "Now that I have thest ingredient, but my storage bag is also empty, we need to consider the alchemy process. The Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill is a pill between the sixth and seventh ranks. Since itбпs been a long time, the division is very vague. For the sake of caution, we should find a seventh-rank Alchemist to refine it. However, seventh-rank Alchemists in the cultivation world are extremely rare."

    "When ites to bulk quantity, sixth-rank Alchemists can handle it, it just depends on the sess rate. But the seventh rank is a threshold. We canбпt find one in Yun State, so we can only look in the bustling provinces of Central Province and Bing State."

    "Itбпs best to go to the central region, because the central region is the strongest and has the most big sects."

    "Although there are many big sects in the central region, we donбпt have any connections. If a strangeres looking for us, aside from the risk of being eaten, even the cost of alchemy is very heavy."

    Lin Jiang said. The market for high-level alchemists is difficult to describe. Itбпs all a sellerбпs market, where the alchemists have the final say and the rules are very strict.For example, high-level alchemists have a rule that those seeking pills muste to them for alchemy. There are generally two payment methods. One is to pay directly, agreed upon in advance. The alchemist will give you an approximate pill output, but it will mostly be less and not more. The other method is to not pay money, but instead provide pills. For example, the alchemist will promise a certain number of pills to the seeker, and any extras go to the alchemist.

    Furthermore, on top of these two methods, there is another rule that the seeker must bear the cost of failure. If the alchemist says that the alchemy failed, tough luck. The alchemist wonбпtpensate.

    Thatбпs just how the rules are. Whether you like it or not, high-level alchemists donбпtck customers. Seekers can only reluctantly ept these rules, as they aremon in the cultivation world. Itбпs the same everywhere, just like how Lin Dongyan did it before.

    These rules are also the root of alchemistsбп wealth, especially the way they collect pills. Alchemists are simply getting something for nothing. They donбпt ask for any costs, and sometimes even get more pills than the seekers themselves.

    "Old Shi, these pill ingredients are not easy toe by. We should be more cautious."

    Lin Die nodded. Lin Ying has been nning for many years and has put in countless efforts. This time, she and Lin Jiang made a significant sponsorship, just enough to gather the materials for one furnace of pills. If they fail, they might never find them again, so they must be cautious.

    "Stop."

    While people were talking, they heard Big Shadiaoбпs voice from outside the door.

    "Miss Ah Yu, please announce that I am looking for Fairy Long Yan."

    Outside the door, Gu Hengbo respectfully said to Big Shadiao, both Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao may have disguises, but Gu Hengbo could see through them. He just had better manners and didnбпt look down upon the beast pet.

    "Third Sister, Gu Hengbo is here again."

    "Lin Wu, please help me send him away."

    "Alright."

    Lin Jiang said with a cheerful smile, then he walked out of the door.

    "Gu Laoliu."

    "Long Wu, can you please show some respect and not call me that?"

    Gu Hengbo was speechless. Does anyone have the audacity to call him Gu Laoliu, especially his elders? Doesnбпt he have any dignity?

    "Alright, Gu Laoliu."

    "Just kidding,e on, let me treat you to tea."

    "Iбпm busy, I came to look for Fairy Long."

    "Are you silly? My Third Auntie is in a bad mood now, if you go, itбпs bad luck."

    "If Fairy Long is in a bad mood, shouldnбпt I go and cheer her up?"

    "Where did you learn this flirting technique?"

    "Umбн"

    "Listen to me, Iбпve sessfully pursued hundreds of women, and today Iбпll share some tips with you."

    Lin Jiang confidently said, Gu Hengbo looked at Lin Jiang in amazement, with eyes wide open. Oh my goodness, looks can be deceiving.

    "To go or not to go?"

    "Go."

    Gu Hengbo immediately said, feeling embarrassed, he has never pursued a woman before, of course, those vulgar women who pursued him donбпt count.

    "Brother, brother, I want to go drink tea too."

    Big Shadiao immediately said, she also likes to drink tea.

    "Go, this is something for adults, children donбпt need to worry about it."

    "Iбпm going."

    "Alright, then go call Small Shadiao."

    "Okay."

    Big Shadiao hurriedly went to call Small Shadiao, while Lin Jiang immediately pulled Gu Hengbo away. Whatбпs the matter with bringing along Small Shadiao on this asion?

    "Long Wu, the tea and snacks are ready. You can share your experience now."

    "No problem, Gu Laoliu. Whatбпs the best way to pursue a woman?"

    "Give money and gifts."

    "Wrong, those vulgar tricks can only attract vulgar women. Is my Third Auntie a vulgar woman?"

    "Definitely not."

    "This is right, the ultimate trick to win a womanбпs heart is called sincerity. Sweet talk means nothing. If you deceive someone with sweet talk now, are you nning to keep using it for your whole life? That would be exhausting, right? So, only sincerity can move peopleбпs hearts."

    "Long Wu, how does the sincere method work?"

    "Sincerity means showing others your true feelings. You have to genuinely treat someone well, help them in difficulties, make them feel that you are a reliable person. Let them get used to your kindness. When they canбпt live without your goodness anymore, they will fall in love with you."

    "That sounds reasonable."

    "Be bolder, remove the боsoundsбп part. Thatбпs exactly what I did, those women loved me so much that they were crazy about me."

    Lin Jiang said. No problem, thosedies he dated for only two hours loved him so much, even though they loved his money more.

    "Does it really work?"

    "How would you know if you donбпt give it a try, Gu Laoliu? Remember, women should be treated with care. Every woman is afraid of being deceived. They have ack of security and fear that the person they trust will turn out to be a bad guy."

    "Iбпm not a bad guy, I genuinely like Fairy Long."

    "I believe you, but my Third Auntie doesnбпt believe you. Sincerity is not just about saying it, but also showing it through actions."

    "How can I show it through actions, Long Wu? Teach me."

    "Right now, there is an opportunity. There is a woman inside the house, you know?"

    "Yes, she seems to be Fairy Longбпs sister."

    "That is my Third Auntieбпs own sister. She is facing a problem right now. If you can help her, it will show your sincerity towards my Third Auntie, and it will also showcase your skills, Gu Laoliu. A man without skills is not attractive to women. Would you like a mediocre man?"

    "No, of course not."

    "Exactly, this is your chance. Solve this matter and show your skills."

    "No, are you really this kind-hearted?"

    Gu Hengbo, who was lost in thought, began to realize something. Wait a minute, Fairy Long is Long Wuбпs Third Auntie. Would he really be this kind-hearted?

    "Gu Laoliu, what are you thinking? She is my Third Auntie, how could I harm her? Itбпs all because I think you are talented, handsome, extraordinary, young and promising. If it were someone else, I wouldnбпt even bother with them."

    "That makes sense. So, tell me, what difficulties have you encountered?"

    "You see, my aunt has put a lot of effort into gathering medicinal ingredients for a pill furnace, but she is struggling to find a suitable Alchemist. And the Danxia Sect is famous for Alchemy in the cultivation world. Gu Laoliu, donбпt you think this is heaven helping you?"

    "Yes, it is true. The Danxia Sect may not have much else, but it has many Alchemists. I am a sixth-tier Alchemist myself."

    "Iбпm afraid that wonбпt be enough. You need to be a seventh-tier Alchemist. If youбпre only a sixth-tier Alchemist, will you even have a chance to perform?"

    "Seventh-tier? Well, even if itбпs seventh-tier, I can always ask my master for help."

    "Can you really do that?"

    "Itбпs a small matter. A man canбпt say he canбпt do it."

    Gu Laoliu assured, as seventh-tier Alchemists were extremely rare, but the Danxia Sect had them. His master was one too, and with his masterбпs love for him, this would be an easy task.

    This is really a miracle for him. If it were any other matter, he may not have been able to do it. But this matter, itбпs settled, and the beauty will be his.

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 Chapter 295:

    Chapter 295:

    Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Zhongzhou, Tianxian City.

    "Little Shadiao, quickly save your dad!"

    In a certain inn, Lin Jiang was being pressed down on the ground by Lin Die, pleading for help from Little Shadiao. Little Shadiao waited with a dazed look, took out a bag of sunflower seeds, started cracking them, what? He didnбпt hear.

    What a joke, finally thereбпs someone who can handle this jerk of an owner, he doesnбпt even have time to watch.

    Besides, he canбпt even beat him, his sister is still here.

    "Auntie Three, please stop, please stop, youбпll kill him if you keep hitting."

    Lin Jiang saw that he couldnбпt rely on Little Shadiao, so he quickly said to Lin Die.

    "Third Sister, are you tired?""A little bit. This jerk is wearing sevenyers of protective clothing."

    Lin Die nodded, feeling a bit tricky. If she doesnбпt use enough force, it wonбпt hurt. But if she uses too much force, sheбпs afraid she might identally kill someone. Itбпs difficult to find the right bnce.

    "Then Third Sister, take a break. Let me take over."

    "Okay."

    "Tenth Auntie, why? I was helping you."

    Lin Jiang felt like crying. Lin Die hitting him was already bad enough, but now youбпre hitting him too. What did he do? Itбпs not fair.

    "Lin Cong,e here and strip off your masterбпs protective clothing. Leave nothing behind."

    "Is that really possible?"

    "Little Shadiao, if you dare, if you darey a hand on her, Iбпll sell your wife."

    Lin Jiang gave a fierce warning, young man, I advise you to show some self-discipline, otherwise your wife will be gone.

    "Still being arrogant, I see you donбпt know where you went wrong."

    "Iбпm not wrong, what did I do wrong?"

    "Not wrong? What do you take me and Third Sister for? Are we the kind of people who use others for our own gain?"

    Lin Ying was furious, the education she and Lin Die received made it impossible for them to ept Lin Jiangбпs behavior. For hundreds of years, the Lin family never used women for their own benefit, they earned everything on their own, even if it meant using a knife or a spear.

    But this bastard, he actually used Lin Dieбпs reputation to lure Gu Hengbo, and they couldnбпt bear it.

    "People who only think of themselves will be punished by the heavens and the earth. In the cultivation world, how many people are willing to kill their loved ones for a bit of spirit stone or opportunity? Using a bit of human nature is nothing. Besides, weбпre not asking Gu Hengbo to refine pills for free, weбпll give him the money he deserves."

    "The Lin family never trades women for benefits."

    "Third Auntie, have I used you for my own benefit? Am I just thinking about myself? And besides, because Gu Hengbo helped us once, do I have to marry him? Thereбпs no such easy thing in the world. If I donбпt like it, I can refuse, right?"

    "You, whatбпs the difference between this and deceiving people?"

    "Thereбпs no difference, itбпs just deceiving people. I have done plenty of deceiving people, and I have killed many too. Has the Lin family killed fewer people? If theyбпre not afraid of killing, whatбпs deceiving people to them?"

    Lin Jiang replied with utmost sincerity, admitting that he is indeed a deceiver, but he didnбпt deny it either.

    Lin Die and Lin Ying looked at each other, realizing that they had been deceived by this person.

    "Third Auntie, Tenth Auntie, listen to me. Donбпt feel guilty inside. In this world, donбпt bother with morals. How much is a moral worth? And how much is the opportunity in front of us worth? We should measure things with pros and cons, not with morals."

    "You make sense, but a person still needs to have some principles. I donбпt want to be the kind of person I dislike."

    "Kindness and gentleness are for our own people, but towards enemies we must be ruthless. Unless Third Auntie considers Gu Hengbo as one of our own, otherwise, what principles are there to talk about? There shouldnбпt be any principles when ites to enemies."

    "Youбн"

    "Third Sister, stop talking. This child hasnбпt learned well, and has a lot of twisted and evil ideas. We wonбпt be able to win with words, so letбпs just fight directly."

    "Lin Ying is right," said Lin Die.

    Lin Die nodded. She is not good at speaking logically, so the only option is to fight.

    "Donбпt fight. Iбпm serious. If you really donбпt want to, Iбпll reject it myself. If you hit me again, Iбпll get angry. Iбпm serious."

    Lin Jiang is also angry. He didnбпt get any benefits and only cared about the two of them. In the end, he became a nobody. Lin Jiang is very angry, and even his own sisters make him angry.

    "Third Sister, what should we do?"

    Lin Ying also stopped fighting. Sheбпs several hundred years old, so she should show some respect.

    "Lin Ying, can you find a reliable Alchemist at Rank 7?"

    "Canбпt find anyone trustworthy."

    Lin Ying said that you can find it at the seventh-level Alchemist market, but it may not be reliable, and it is extremely expensive.

    "So you only have two choices, first, go home and ask dad for help, dad will definitely help, second, ept this matter."

    "Iбпll go home and ask dad."

    Lin Ying said directly, although she and Lin Batian are not on good terms now, she doesnбпt want Lin Die to suffer.

    "But I hope you ept this matter."

    "Third Sister, why?"

    "Actually, we are not fighting with dad, we are just trying to be independent from his protection. We are four or five hundred years old, we canбпt rely on dad for everything, we need to grow up."

    "Third Sister, itбпs not necessary, you donбпt even like Gu Hengbo."

    "Indeed, I donбпt like him, but Lin Wu is right. Itбпs not just because he helped me once that I have to marry him. I acknowledge this debt of gratitude, and I will repay him in the future. I will tell him in advance, if he doesnбпt want it, then let it be."

    Lin Die said she wasnбпt foolish enough to marry Gu Hengbo because of this matter, itбпs just a debt of gratitude, and she would handle itter.

    "Then listen to Third Sister, I wonбпt bow down to father either. I, Lin Ying, can handle things on my own."

    "Then itбпs decided like this."

    "Third Sister, I will repay this favor."

    Lin Ying said that this was a favor she owed, and she would repay it herself.

    "Donбпt worry about that, Lin Wu, stand up."

    "Yes."

    "Go and invite Gu Hengbo, I want to have a talk with him."

    Lin Die said, Lin Jiang sighed and felt speechless. They all livedplicated lives, just like Lin Die and Lin Ying. They truly resembled their father.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Dear Taoist friend, I have already exined everything."

    Inside the inn, Lin Die confronted Gu Hengbo. She made it clear that she had no interest in romantic rtionships and only desired to pursue the path of spirituality. If Gu Hengbo is willing to help her, she would owe him a favor and would be willing to go through great lengths in the future. If heбпs not willing, it doesnбпt matter.

    "Fairy Long, thereбпs no need to reject me from afar. I truly adore you, fairy."

    "Our pursuits and paths are different. Thereбпs no need to say more about this."

    "Doesnбпt Gou have any chance at all?"

    "There are many good women in the world, itбпs just that Iбпm not fortunate enough."

    "Sigh."

    Gu Hengbo felt a strong sense of heartache. It was the first time he felt this way towards a woman. Itбпs a premature love that is about to end before it even begins.

    "Since thatбпs the case, then Iбпll leave first."

    "No, Fairy Long, wait a moment, I havenбпt refused yet."

    "Let me exin myself clearly."

    "I know, but Iбпm willing to help with this favor."

    "Taoist friend, thereбпs no need for that."

    "I truly mean it. Long Wu is right, we should be sincere in our actions. I donбпt expect the fairy to devote herself to me over a small favor. Iбпm willing to be friends with the fairy."

    "Alright, then I vow here to owe a favor to taoist friend. If therees a time when I have a request, even if it requires going through fire and water, I will agree to it."

    Lin Die said very seriously. She was someone who valued trust and always followed through on her words.

    "No need for that, itбпs just a small favor."

    "I let my younger sistere in."

    Lin Die nodded, no longer saying much. She didnбпt know how to continue the conversation, to avoid embarrassment.

    Lin Ying quickly came in and talked to Gu Hengbo about alchemy.

    "Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill, this medicine is very ancient, and the ingredients are extremely difficult to find. Mainstream alchemists donбпt make it anymore."

    "Yes, thatбпs why we need to ask our Taoist friend for help."

    "Itбпs okay, youбпre lucky. My master made this pill more than a hundred years ago. Iбпll take care of it."

    "Then, please ask your Taoist friend to introduce your esteemed teacher. Iбпm willing to pay whatever price for the pill."

    Lin Ying replied, owing a debt of gratitude, but still needing to give what should be given.

    Gu Hengbo didnбпt say anything about this. If he were making it himself, he definitely couldnбпt charge money. But when his master takes action, what should be given still needs to be given.

    Gu Hengbo agreed and they made ns. Three dayster, Lin Ying went to Danxia Sect and Gu Hengbo would introduce her to his master for alchemy practice.

    "Gu Laoliu, look, I wasnбпt wrong, women are always insecure. My Third Auntie is very cautious, you need to try harder."

    Seeing Gu Hengbo about to leave, Lin Jiang hurriedly caught up with him and said.

    "Long Wu, do I still have a chance?"

    "No way, you gave up after one rejection. Do you really like my Third Auntie?"

    "Of course I do, itбпs justбн"

    "Just what, Gu Laoliu? If women were easily won over, then what sets my Third Auntie apart from other ordinary women?"

    "Youбпre not tricking me, right?"

    "Of course not, why would I do such a thing? My principle in life is sincerity. You have to trust me, I have experience in this matter. Women canбпt withstand too much attention. If you spoil them too many times, theyбпll get used to it and be dependent on you."

    "Youбпre right, itбпs my fault. I almost gave up just now."

    "Keep going, work hard."

    Lin Jiang cheered Gu Hengbo on. Come on, bro, letбпs strive to be good followers. Stay loyal till the end (serious face).

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 Chapter 296:

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    Zhongzhou, Tianxian City

    Lin Ying sessfully obtained the Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill, but he almost became broke because of it. He sold everything except for his most treasured magic weapon.

    However, the process of refining this pill is not so fast. It will take about two more years to get the medicine. When Lin Ying leaves Danxia Sect, he will bring Big Shadiao to Wilderness to hunt monsters and make money. Big Shadiao has been following Lin Ying for these years.

    "Lin Wu, Lin Ying and I are going to Wilderness together. What about you?"

    "Iбпm going back to You State."

    Lin Jiang said. Wilderness is too dangerous, letбпs not go. We have money now, why risk our lives?

    "Alright, going back to You State will be more effective for you."

    Lin Die nodded, knowing that her nephew was afraid of death and not skilled in fighting, but good at managing. The Lin family needed someone like him."When will you go back to You State or North State?"

    "It will take more than ten years. After our Soul Changing, we will naturally go back."

    "What if we fail? Haha, just kidding."

    "If we fail, we wonбпt have face to go back. I will continue seeking the opportunity for Soul Changing. We are not little girls anymore, we wonбпt always rely on our fatherбпs protection."

    Lin Die said, both she and Lin Ying had a strong sense of independence and were determined to make a career and achieve aplishments on their own.

    "Then, I wish both Aunties sess."

    "Well, weбпll leave in two days. You can do as you please."

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang nodded, two days was about right, he also had to prepare to leave.

    On the second day, when Gu Hengbo learned that Lin Die and the others were going to Wilderness, he immediately expressed his desire to go too. Nothing could stop him. This made Lin Die roll her eyes. Didnбпt they already make it clear? Why was he still bothering her?

    Lin Jiang, who initiated this, didnбпt dare say a word. How could Lin Die know that Lin Jiang had helped to create ap dog for her?

    Another day passed, and everyone said their goodbyes. Lin Die and the others set off for Wilderness, while Lin Jiang hurried back to You State.

    "Oh, wee back!"

    Wei Lin appeared with a big smile when he heard Lin Jiang had returned.

    "Whatбпs up? Do you need something?"

    "Itбпs okay, I just miss my old home."

    "No, please donбпt miss me, itбпs not my thing."

    "My old homeбпs words hurt my heart, Iбпll go y with Cong-ge."

    Wei Lin made a sad face and tried to pounce on Small Shadiao, but Small Shadiao disappeared. Who wants to y with you? He has to go home and find his wife. Heбпs a married bird.

    Lin Jiang couldnбпt be bothered with him. He went to the shop to check the situation. This time, Lin Jiang had been away for almost two months. He had to see how the shop was doing.

    "Why has the revenue decreased?"

    Lin Jiang found the shopбпs steward and asked about the situation. In the past two years, the shopбпs business had been thriving, getting better every month. So why did it suddenly decrease?

    "Uncle, not only our shopбпs revenue has decreased, but other shops too."

    "Whatбпs going on? Why is it like this?"

    "There are fewer people."

    "Exin clearly."

    "To be precise, there are fewer people in the realms of golden core and Nascent Soul. The lord is unaware, but there have been many incidents in Xuanmiao City these past two months. Some golden core and Nascent Soul cultivators have gone missing."

    "Theyбпve disappeared, donбпt keep us in suspense. Exin clearly."

    "Iбпm not sure of the specific details. But in any case, there have been repeated incidents involving golden core and Nascent Soul cultivators in Xuanmiao City. Some have gone outside the city and never returned. Their family members say they died, as their Soul Lamps and other belongings were all extinguished and broken. Yet, their deaths remain mysterious. Some hadnбпt even embarked on any dangerous missions, nor did they have any enemies. But once they left the city, they vanished. Some say itбпs the work of the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "Have any bodies been found?"

    "No, thatбпs the strange part. In the past, when the Blood Demon Ancestor killed people, he never bothered with the bodies. He would even dump them in crowded ces to create panic. But these people who have recently disappeared arepletely untraceable. Itбпs suspected that someone has destroyed the bodies to leave no evidence."

    "What about Tianxuan Sect?"

    Lin Jiang asked immediately. Golden core and Nascent Soul cultivators are the backbone of the cultivation society. The wealth and spending power they bring is iparable to lower-level cultivators. The spending power of a single Nascent Soul cultivator is greater than one hundred Qi Refining or Building Foundation cultivators.

    If there are a lot of problems with the golden core and Nascent Soul, itбпs definitely Tianxuan Sect who canбпt sit still. This means that Tianxuan Sectбпs territory is no longer safe, bringing a great challenge to the order of Tianxuan Sect, ultimately affecting their ie.

    "Tianxuan Sect has sent out many people to investigate, but there is still no news. Besides strengthening patrols, Tianxuan Sect has no other options."

    "Have any of our people encountered any trouble?"

    "Not yet for now. Our people are keeping a low profile and rarely leave the city."

    "Donбпt leave the city. Until this matter is thoroughly investigated, be cautious."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Regardless of whether it was done by the Blood Demon Ancestor or not, safety in Xuanmiao City is guaranteed, but going outside is uncertain, so itбпs better not to go out.

    Lin Jiang gave instructions and went to find Lin Dongyan, giving him the form for the Seven Star Sky Awakening Pill.

    "This is a very old form. Where did you get it from?"

    "I found it."

    "Hmph, then you try some yourself."

    "If we find the medicinal ingredients, can you make this elixir?"

    "I donбпt have the ability yet, this kind of medicine is veryplicated, many techniques have been outdated, I canбпt do it."

    "I know, just asking."

    Lin Jiang said, and Lin Dongyan immediately rolled his eyes, thinking this damn guy was ying with him.

    "Uncle, can you arrange a few more helpers for me? Iбпm overwhelmed."

    "Find whoever you need, just give me the listter."

    "Thank you, uncle."

    "No need, just make more batches of medicine. This time, weбпre going to Xiaotian City. The head of the family isining about being poor again, so you have to work hard."

    "Is our family really in such a difficult situation?"

    "Yes, the head of the family has arge family to support. You know, many people in the Lin family can have children easily, so after a few peaceful years, another batch of little ones were born."

    Lin Jiang said. I really donбпt know how many people are in the Lin family now. Thereбпs a group in Xiaotian City, another group in Xuanmiao City, and some others are settled in Zhongzhou and Bing State. Anyway, every time I go to Xiaotian City, I see several unfamiliar children. When ites to fertility, the Lin family is truly remarkable.

    "Alright, then I wonбпt rest anymore in the future. Iбпll make more pills. But Uncle, you also need to attract more business for pill refining."

    "No problem, I will form a dedicated team to collect various pill recipes and materials for you to refine pills. You should also train some new people and try to bring in several Alchemists of the sixth rank."

    Lin Jiang immediatelyughed. Lin Dongyan was really good for being so diligent in earning money for him. He could even have a chicken leg for dinner.

    After arranging things, Lin Jiang went to visit Zhou Huaiyingбпs mansion. Xuanmiao City always had a Void Achieving Ancestor in charge, and several Void Achieving cultivators from the Tianxuan Sect took turns to guard Xuanmiao City. It was Zhou Huaiyingбпs turn now.

    "Thereбпs a scent of medicine on you. Did you go to Danxia Sectбпs territory?"

    Zhou Huaiying soaked the tea that Lin Jiang had just brought and after smelling it, he said.

    "The famous herbal tea of the Danxia Sect is known throughout the world. When passing by Tianxian City, I bought a little to show respect to the seniors."

    Lin Jiang replied. When trying to please someone, it is important to do it properly. This time in Tianxian City, I bought quite a few things as gifts. They are not very expensive, but they can show my thoughtfulness and leave a good impression.

    "You have a kind heart."

    "This is what I should do."

    "Is there something you want to talk about whening to visit this time?"

    "Yes, recently the revenue of various businesses has decreased significantly. The owners of other shops are very worried. They have entrusted me to find out some information from the seniors. I wonder if the seniors can disclose anything."

    "The incident in Xuanmiao City still originated from the Blood Demon Ancestor. If nothing unexpected happens, he has already taken on an apprentice, and it is likely the apprenticeбпs doing."

    "Is there a possibility of a Demon Disaster happening again?"

    Lin Jiang frowned. Dealing with one Blood Demon Ancestor is already very difficult. If this person were to take on ten or eight more apprentices, it would truly be a disaster.

    "Itбпs possible that Tianxuan Sect has now sent someone to investigate this matter."

    "Any news?"

    "Not yet. The enemy is very cunning, they kill and remove all evidence, so itбпs very difficult to investigate. Be careful yourself, donбпt fall into their trap."

    "Thank you for your concern, Iбпm not going anywhere, just staying in Xuanmiao City."

    "Just stay put. Make sure to inform the other businesses to behave and not wander around."

    Zhou Huaiying nodded. Being able to stay in one city for decades or even centuries is not something ordinary people can do. Cultivators like to explore different ces to broaden their horizons, itбпs beneficial for their cultivation.

    "Yes, senior."

    "I wonбпt say much about the management matters, but letбпs cooperate and work happily together."

    "Of course, when the timees, we wille to pay our respects to you."

    Lin Jiang immediately said that in a ce like Xuanmiao City, itбпs important to have the support of the Tianxuan Sect. It doesnбпt matter how strong he is personally, unless he can be stronger than the Tianxuan Sect.

    After discussing the important matters, they chatted randomly for a while. Lin Jiang didnбпt expect Zhou Huaiying to invite him for a meal, so he left on his own ord. He needed to go back and focus on improving his cultivation as soon as possible, as a golden core doesnбпt grant him any privileges.

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 Chapter 297:

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    The city you mentioned is Xuanmiao City.

    In the cultivation world, there are distinct levels. In any big city, there will be an area for the wealthy, also known as the high-level area. The wealth in the cultivation world is closely tied to oneбпs strength.

    The wealthy area of Xuanmiao City is the East District. The buildings here are no longer messy and dim, but instead are luxurious. Only the rich and influential people cane and go here.

    However, the East District is now clouded with worries. There have been arge number of disappearances of people with golden cores and Nascent Souls. This has caused their family members to lose their most important source of wealth. Many people realize that they canбпt survive here anymore and have already started moving away, causing the entire East District to be deste.

    "Husband, do we really have to go?"

    Inside a mansion in the East District, a woman asked her husband.

    "Letбпs go, Xuanmiao City can no longer stay. One after another, people are having idents, things are abnormal, it will definitely be dangerous and strange. If we donбпt leave, we will all suffer here."

    "But our families have been here for generations. What about our rtives and friends?""If we canбпt even protect ourselves, why should we worry about others? I have strong spiritual power, I can go anywhere, and itбпs enough to keep you safe. I canбпt control what happens to others. If you want to stay, then stay. I will take our children and leave."

    The man replied. Normally there is no danger, so he is happy to take care of his rtives and friends. But now he canбпt even protect himself, so why should he worry about others? Itбпs better to run away first. After all, he has strong skills and can survive anywhere, even if the ie is lower.

    "Dad, everything is taken care of."

    As they were talking, a young man walked in and said that he had sold most of their belongings.

    "Well done. Letбпs wait a few more days and leave together. I have contacted other Taoist friends."

    The man nodded. He wasnбпt the only one who wanted to leave. Others were also worried, so as soon as someone suggested it, they immediately responded and left in groups.

    "Yes, Dad. What should we do with the house here?"

    "Sold"

    "This is our ancestral house"

    "What does it matter, we no longer live here, itбпs useless to keep it"

    "Butбн"

    The young man hesitated, they were leaving, not taking everyone with them. Some elderly and weak would have to stay behind. What would happen to those people if the house was sold? But he didnбпt dare say it. He knew that even if the house was kept, those who were weak and old wouldnбпt be safe. They would only be abandoned souls. ??

    "Greetings, Elder"

    In the sky above Xuanmiao City, Zhou Huaiying bowed to the Tao Achieving cultivator of Tianxuan Sect.

    "No need for excessive politeness. Has the Eastern City be so deste?"

    "Eight or nine out of ten"

    Zhou Huaiying said that the poption of the Eastern District has decreased by seventy to eighty percent. Some of them died, unable to survive, while others ran away voluntarily. Tianxuan Sect tried to persuade them, but could not convince them at all.

    "Are the followers the same?"

    "All the same. This ident is extremely terrible. ording to statistics, in the past year, more than a hundred people with golden cores have fallen in Xuanmiao City, and there were over ten Nascent Souls. It is several tens of times more than previous years. Even if this matter is resolved now, it will take more than a hundred years to recover."

    Zhou Huaiying said that so many golden cores and Nascent Souls were umted in Xuanmiao City over a long period of time. It was the guarantee of the prosperity of Xuanmiao City. But it only took less than a year to lose all of it, and now more people have run away. The whole Xuanmiao City is already half ruined.

    "Half of Tianxuan Sectбпs iees from Xuanmiao City. Xuanmiao City cannot be abandoned."

    "Thatбпs why we asked the Ancestor to take action. Several senior brothers have been investigating for half a year, but there is no news at all."

    "In the next step, you must find some traces of the Blood Demon Ancestor, even if it is someone he killed. I will go to the Central Province and borrow a treasure from Danxia Sect. We will definitely be able to catch the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "Is the Ancestor going to borrow the Tongtian Mirror from Danxia Sect?"

    "Um, me and Tao Achieving Ancestor from Danxia Sect have a connection. He owes me a favor, so with a little cost, I can borrow this treasure."

    "If we have the Tongtian Mirror, the probability of finding the Blood Demon Ancestor will be greater."

    Zhou Huaiying nodded. The Tongtian Mirror is a special treasure. It doesnбпt have any attacking or defending abilities, but it can search for all things. As long as there is a certain aura, even if itбпs thousands of miles away, it can appear in the mirror. Thereбпs no escape from it.

    Xuanmiao City, East District

    In a luxurious building, several young women are serving a middle-aged man. Itбпs much more extravagant and morous than Zhongmiao Building.

    The reality is the same. The most luxurious and decadent lifestyle in any big city is not in a ce like Zhongmiao Building, but in the high-ranking mansions where people enjoy themselves behind closed doors. Itбпs beyond the imagination of those poor people.

    "Everyone, please leave."

    Suddenly, the middle-aged manбпs expression changed. He waved his hand and made dozens of singing maidens leave. When there was no one in the room, a faint figure quietly appeared.

    "Why are you free toe to me today, are you envious of my life?"

    "If you donбпt leave soon, youбпre going to die."

    "Haha, just those useless people?"

    "Tao Achieving Ancestor is about to make a move."

    "Even if they find me, they still have to catch me."

    "Although the Art of Blood Escape is powerful, it is not all-powerful. There are many ways to counter your escape technique. The Tianxuan Sectбпs Tao Achieving cultivator has set off for the Central Stateбпs Danxia Sect to borrow the Tongtian Mirror. I donбпt need to exin the usefulness of the Tongtian Mirror, do I?"

    "Tongtian Mirror"

    When the middle-aged man heard these words, his face changed. The Tongtian Mirror is famous, and he had definitely heard of it. This treasure is absolutely a weapon that restrains him.

    "Hurry, letбпs go."

    "Can we snatch the Tongtian Mirror?"

    "If you can defeat Tao Achieving, you can try."

    "Arenбпt you supposed to cooperate?"

    "Youбпre joking. If Tao Achieving Ancestor was so easy to kill, how could you stand a chance?"

    "Really not possible?"

    "If you want to die, go ahead by yourself, donбпt involve me."

    "Donбпt forget, weбпre together now, Zhou Huaiying."

    The middle-aged man instantly revealed the identity of the person in front of him. It was Zhou Huaiying from the Tianxuan Sect, but it was just his clone that had arrived.

    "Haha, who would believe that if we said it?"

    "These past few months, you have killed a lot of cultivators in Xuanmiao City, havenбпt you?"

    "Anyway, if you donбпt want to die, then just leave."

    Zhou Huaiying was furious. He had indeed been betrayed by the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    At first, when the Blood Demon Ancestor gave him the Blood Demon Manual, he didnбпt pay much attention. But as he studied the manual, he became fascinated by the art.

    The technique that the Blood Demon Ancestor gave him was perfect, surpassing all other techniques in the world. Although Zhou Huaiying knew that the Blood Demon Ancestor hadnбпt taught him everything and had kept many things secret, he was still tempted.

    In reality, his cultivation hadnбпt progressed for a long time. He had spent too much time wandering in the Divine Kingdom. Void Achieving had a lifespan of only five thousand years, and he had wasted over a thousand years in the Divine Kingdom. Given his current situation, he had no chance of achieving Tao in this lifetime.

    Driven by greed, Zhou Huaiying couldnбпt help but cultivate the Blood Demon Manual. During the process of the Blood Demon Ancestor attacking and killing cultivators in Xuanmiao City, Zhou Huaiying also took action and provided shelter for the Blood Demon Ancestor, otherwise, the Blood Demon Ancestor would have been discovered long ago.

    "Fine, donбпt be angry. Iбпll just leave. Thereбпs not much blood to feed on in Xuanmiao City anyway. Iбпll find another city."

    "Go away quickly!"

    "Zhou Huaiying, itбпs not easy to find fresh blood to feed on. I suggest we work together and eliminate your Tao Achieving family. We can then use their blood to perform a blood ritual for the entire Tianxuan Sect. As Tao Achieving, there wonбпt be anywhere in the world we canбпt go. Without family members or sect burdens, no one will dare to oppose us."

    "Crazy person."

    "To survive, one must be a little crazy. Zhou Huaiying, let me tell you the first side effect of the Blood Demon Manual. Itбпs an unquenchable thirst for power and blood. Once you get a taste, you can never be free from it. You will crave power more and more, to the point of losing your sanity. Donбпt think you can control it, no one can. Unless you be an immortal, that is. Otherwise, hehe."

    "I am not you."

    "Haha, I admire your confidence, but I suggest you start nning early. Forget about family and children, sacrifice them in the blood ritual. Then you wonбпt hesitate anymoreбн"

    "Bang."

    Zhou Huaiyingбпs spectral figure shattered instantly. He no longer wanted to listen to these deceiving words. He was afraid he wouldnбпt be able to resist them if he kept listening.

    "Hahaбн"

    This reaction only made the Blood Demon Ancestorugh louder. He knew that Zhou Huaiying had fallen for his tricks. Once on his treacherous ship, Zhou Huaiying would never be able to get off.

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 Chapter 298:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, the farthest north ce

    A magnificent Ice Pce was built for Xiao Lingyue by Lin Batian. Xiao Lingyueбпs ice-based Spiritual Root is more advantageous for her cultivation in this environment.

    Thatбпs why a huge amount of money was spent to establish such an ice pce in this far north ce.

    The enchanting scene, like a fairnd, made Xiao Lingyue very happy. She wore a red dress and danced on the ice, like an elf. Her beautiful dance mesmerized onlookers.

    "Ahemбн"

    Lin Batian noticed that the Lin familyбпs children were enchanted, so he coughed a few times to bring them back to reality.

    "No wonder our leader is so fascinated with this girl. She truly has captivating qualities."

    "Donбпt doubt our leaderбпs taste."Lin Chaosheng and the others secretly whispered below, not realizing how beautiful Xiao Lingyue was before. But now, as she danced, she truly looked like a fairy.

    "Lin Lang"

    After the dance, Xiao Lingyue flew to Lin Batianбпs side, looking at him shyly. She hadnбпt been this happy in a long time.

    "Yueбпer, as long as youбпre happy"

    Lin Batian nodded with a smile. The Ice Pce did cost a lot of money, but he thought it was worth it. Firstly, it could make a person smile, and secondly, it could provide a safe ce for Xiao Lingyue to practice her skills and not get involved in the Lin familyбпs affairs. In recent years, with Lin Die and Lin Ying, the two sisters, absent, there were not many people in the family who could help him. Xiao Lingyue had taken on a lot of responsibilities.

    Although Xiao Lingyue followed the rules in her work, Lin Batian still didnбпt want to entrust major matters to her. It wasnбпt that he didnбпt trust her character, but rather her abilities.

    "Lin Lang, pleasee see Yueбпer more often in the future."

    "That goes without saying. From now on, this area will be guarded by Yueбпer."

    Lin Batian nodded, choosing to ce Xiao Lingyue in the far north for another reason: to control the Human Demon Tribe and demons of the extreme northern region, ensuring the interests of the Lin family in that area.

    While talking, the servant had already prepared the food. Lin Batian invited everyone to sit down and enjoy the meal, and also discuss matters in this ce.

    After a few days, Lin Batian happily left. He had good self-control and didnбпt want to stay in the gentle town for too long and risk losing his ambition. ?

    After everyone left, Xiao Lingyue focused on her practice. The environment here was very suitable for her, with abundant spiritual energy and plentiful resources, which boosted Xiao Lingyueбпs confidence.

    "Sheбпs truly like a fairy. I wonder if she would cry for three days if I pped her."

    Outside the Ice Pce, a transparent figure watched Xiao Lingyue inside. In this snowy world, Xiao Lingyue liked to wear red clothes. Even from a distance, one could feel her beauty.

    This piqued Su Changбп interest. As a perverted person, he enjoyed torturing handsome men and beautiful women. The contrast between their stunning appearance and tragic end filled him with intense satisfaction, feeding his perverted interests.

    Su Chang kept watch outside the Ice Pce for a long time, observing everything. Besides Xiao Lingyue, the Ice Pce had over a hundred servants attending to her daily needs and over a hundred guards patrolling the surroundings. These guards also had to mediate the conflicts among the Human Demon Tribe.

    The poption in the extreme northern region had decreased significantly in the past two years. This forced the Lin family to put effort into managing and organizing, such as allocating territory to the tribes and providing them with sufficient food to promote poption growth.

    The far-northnd is too harsh for normal cultivators to survive, let alone ordinary people. Apart from the demon n and the Human Demon Tribe, only high-level cultivators can live here for a long time. Otherwise, the Lin family wouldnбпt need to go through so much trouble and could just migrate people here directly.

    After observing for a while, Su Chang understood the daily routine of the Ice Pce very clearly. This made him unable to wait any longer. It had been a while since he heard screams or saw the sight of blood, which made him very ufortable.

    Driven by curiosity, Su Chang took action. He used a secret technique topletely go invisible and gradually approached the Ice Pce. The Ice Pce had formations and restrictions, but they couldnбпt stop Su Chang. He was a skilled Formation Master himself.

    He observed the techniques used by the guards entering and exiting and figured out how to break the formation of the Ice Pce. Silently, he entered the Ice Pce.

    Su Chang lurked inside the Ice Pce like a hunting cheetah. He didnбпt rush to take action, but instead searched for the core of the formation. He had to control the core of the formation before he could make a move. He was very cautious about this.

    After observing, Su Chang learned that the core of the formation was in the hands of a woman named Lin Tan. She was Xiao Lingyueбпs trusted personal maid.

    "Bang!"

    Su Chang waited for several days until Xiao Lingyue went into seclusion before taking action. With a single strike, he knocked out Lin Tan and took the control token of the Ice Pceбпs formation from her. Then, using his powerful spiritual perception, he erased the marks on it, gaining control over the formation.

    "Whatбпs going on? Why wonбпt the formation open?"

    "Canбпt go out anymore."

    "Uh-oh, somethingбпs changed at the Ice Pce."

    The guards inside the Ice Pce were the first to notice something was wrong. They also had control tokens, but they only controlled part of the formation, which was useless now. They were trapped inside the Ice Pce.

    "Stay calm."

    Xiao Lingyue quickly became rmed and angrily scolded, taking charge. The guards and servants swiftly calmed down and gathered around Xiao Lingyue.

    "Whereбпs Lin Tan?"

    "Reporting to the elder, Miss Lin Tan is missing."

    "Wait here."

    Xiao Lingyue nodded, realizing something. She quickly flew towards a building in the Ice Pce, where the central formation was.

    "Boom!"

    Su Chang attacked by surprise. When he saw Xiao Lingyue approaching, he swung his sword with great force, and a powerful de rushed towards Xiao Lingyue.

    Xiao Lingyueбпs robe shattered, and she could barely withstand this move. However, Su Changбпs subsequent attacks came quickly, wave after wave. Xiao Lingyue desperately defended herself, unable tounch any counterattacks. She struggled to withstand Su Changбпs onught.

    "Ice Barrier"

    Seeing that she was no match, Xiao Lingyue became anxious and quickly used a secret spell. Suddenly, icyyers began to form around her, growing rapidly until within a radius of thirty meters, everything was covered in ice. It had turned into an Ice Stone, leaving only a one- to two-meter gap around Xiao Lingyue.

    This was a somewhat ineffective secret technique. It had strong defensive power, but it also trapped Xiao Lingyue. If she wasnбпt so desperate, she wouldnбпt have used it.

    Su Chang swung his weapon repeatedly at the massive Ice Stone. Chunks of ice fell off, but they quickly solidified again. This surprised Su Chang.

    "This ice lump is really tough to break!"

    Su Chang sighed. This ice lump was harder than a top-grade magical artifact, and it quickly repaired itself. Normal methods were useless.

    "Who are you, sir?"

    Xiao Lingyue quickly rested and prepared inside the Ice Stone.

    "Youбпve been chasing me for years and still donбпt know who I am?"

    "Killing Demon Su Chang?"

    "I prefer being called the King of Murder by others."

    "Haha, asking for death."

    Xiao Lingyue sneered. She had finished resting and changed her equipment, but she hesitated on whether to dissolve the Ice Stone and fight Su Chang. Over the years, Su Chang had gained a great reputation and had a strongerbat power.

    "It seems your guards are not loyal enough, no one came to save you."

    Su Chang nced around. With such amotion, anyone within a hundred miles would have heard it if there were no formations in ce. Yet, the guards didnбпt even bother toe and take a look.

    Xiao Lingyue didnбпt make a sound. These guards were all former thieves, so itбпs normal for them to be disloyal. Besides, theyбпre just a group of weak guys at most with a golden core. What use are they?

    "Guards who are not loyal must be killed. Keeping them is just a waste."

    As Su Chang spoke, he took out a jade box. When he opened it, a me suddenly flew out. Su Chang controlled the me to fall onto the Ice Stone, causing it to melt rapidly, and steam rising up.

    "Qinglian Earth Fire."

    Xiao Lingyue recognized this spirit fire and gritted her teeth.

    "Yes, Qinglian Earth Fire. Later, I will use this fire to burn your hand, and you must use your ice magic to see if your ice magic is stronger or my spirit fire."

    "If you were in my hands, I would treat you the same way."

    "Okay, I will also break your bones one by one. But you look pretty, so I should strip your skin. I have never done this before, youбпre the first. You should feel honored."

    Su Chang continued speaking with a serious and intense expression, giving Xiao Lingyue goosebumps all over. This bastard is truly a pervert.

    Iбпve been in North State for so many years, and I rarely see such a beautiful woman like you. Thest time was when I met the Holy Maiden of the Snow Demon. I tortured her for half a month, and she eventually begged me to kill her. It was not fun at all.

    You have the Soul Changing cultivation. You should be able to hold on for over a month. When that timees, please donбпt ask me to kill you, you know? Because that would be boring. You must hold on, okayбн

    Su Chang kept on talking to himself, while Xiao Lingyue was already starting to feel physically ufortable. This Killing Demon Su Chang is really too perverse, and I donбпt know how many torturous methods he has. Those he killed didnбпt have a painless death, all were tortured and countless people ended up begging him to kill them, wanting to end their suffering.

    "Ah, the Ice Stone has melted."

    After waiting for a while, the Ice Stone arranged by Xiao Lingyue finally melted. Su Chang raised his sword, facing Xiao Lingyue.

    "Beautifuldy, here Ie."

    "Hehe."

    Xiao Lingyue chuckled coldly, and then another ice barrier secret technique appeared. The surroundings quickly froze again, preventing Su Chang from making a move.

    "This is boring. Your Ice Stone canбпt stop me. It will only take about two quarters of an hour for me to melt it. Or are you nning topete with me in endurance? Itбпs useless. I have mastered all the formations here. No information can be transmitted out."

    Su Chang said to himself, but Xiao Lingyue didnбпt pay attention and just stared at the ice, calcting how quickly it was melting.

    Su Chang was also watching the ice, but suddenly he felt a creepy feeling inside him. He eximed. This is a trap, youбпre using yourself as bait!

    "What are you saying?"

    "Hmph!"

    Su Chang snorted and put away his magical fire. Then, he jumped into the sky, trying to leave. At the same time, Xiao Lingyue made her move. She burst out of the Ice Stone, and a shower of ice arrows appeared, shooting towards Su Chang.

    Su Chang quickly swung his sword and destroyed the ice arrows, but Xiao Lingyue wasnбпt done. She unleashed even more ice arrows andrger chunks of Ice Stone.

    "Trouble."

    Su Chang was getting really angry, but he didnбпt dare to stay. Suddenly, he exploded into pieces and disappeared right in front of Xiao Lingyue.

    "Now that youбпre here, can you escape?"

    Xiao Lingyueughed coldly, and as expected, at the next moment, Su Chang appeared. Because there was an Ice Pce at the center, a protective shield appeared within a radius of one hundred miles. This trap was like a formation within a formation, and the barrier outside the Ice Pce had already been deployed.

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 Chapter 299:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, the Ice Pce in the far north.

    Su Chang turned around and looked at Xiao Lingyue. He didnбпt expect the people from Xiaotian City to be so ruthless, using his woman as bait to lure him out.

    "Why arenбпt you running?!"

    "Can you catch me? Do you have the ability?"

    "No, but my man does."

    Xiao Lingyue smiled. She took a great risk to capture Su Chang, and Xiaotian City was well-prepared. Of course, this Ice Pce was genuinely built for her. It was like killing two birds with one stone.

    "Thinking that a mere trap formation can imprison me?"

    Su Chang was not impressed. He used his special power to search for weak points in the formation. He found one and quickly struck it with his sword, causing a hole to appear. Su Chang then charged straight towards the hole."Boom!"

    However, instead of escaping, Su Chang was greeted by a long spear. His face turned pale as he gathered all his strength to attack the spear, but he was still knocked down and a deep crater appeared on the ground.

    "Yueбпer, I hope I didnбпte toote."

    Lin Batian appeared beside Xiao Lingyue, and the hole in the formation quickly closed up.

    "Lin, you came at the right time. Su Chang took the bait."

    "Yes, Iбпll capture him. We canбпt let him get off too easily."

    Lin Batian nodded. This move was inspired by Lin Wuбпs unusual thinking. Lin Wu had told him to approach Su Chang with a twisted mindset.

    Lin Batian had his people investigate Su Changбп behavior. After a long time, they discovered that Su Chang had a particr hatred towards good-looking people. Even during acts of cruelty, he would torture them even more.

    So he set up this trap, using Xiao Lingyue as bait, after all, there hasnбпt been anyone in North State who looks better than Xiao Lingyue, at least for now.

    Lin Batian went to find Su Chang, but he found that Su Chang had already disappeared from the pit. Lin Batian nced at the formation, which had already closed. Su Chang must still be inside the formation, which was only about a hundred miles in size. Lin Batian used his spiritual sense to search inch by inch.

    Soon, Lin Batian found Su Chang. Su Chang had hidden back in the Ice Pce, and he had captured most of the ves and guards in the Ice Pce.

    "Let me go, or Iбпll kill them."

    "Alright, go ahead and kill them."

    Lin Batian said directly, using these people as hostages to threaten him. He didnбпt know what Su Chang was thinking.

    "Youбпre really ruthless."

    "Whether you kill them or not, if you spare me, I will help you."

    Lin Batian didnбпt care at all. He had already abandoned so many members of the Lin family back then, not to mention just a few servants and guards.

    "Be careful, Lin Lang, there must be deception."

    Xiao Lingyue said on the side, based on her understanding of Su Chang, he wouldnбпt be so dumb to threaten these people. If he really wanted to threaten someone, it should be her.

    "Be cautious, the formation is blocking my clear vision. It could be an illusion or a clone."

    Lin Batian nodded, but he still took action. He thrust his spear and directly broke the Ice Pceбпs formation.

    Then Lin Batian rushed towards Su Chang and indeed discovered that this personбпs strength was extremely weak, definitely not the real body.

    "Boom"

    The real Su Chang appeared, once again attacking the weak point of the formation. This was his final move. If they couldnбпt escape from here, they would truly be trapped.

    Just as Su Chang was about to break through the formation, he suddenly felt his body bing heavy. He looked down and saw that his feet were covered in frost, connected to the hands of Xiao Lingyue.

    "Turn"

    Xiao Lingyue shouted loudly, and the formation quickly activated. The hole closed up again, and the weak point shifted.

    "Mean person."

    Su Chang became very angry. Thest bit of hope disappeared, and Su Chang turned and attacked Xiao Lingyue. He directly summoned his Soul Changing Dharma Appearance. His dharma body wasnбпt his own, but it looked like a demon with a terrifying and boundless aura. Xiao Lingyue was thrown off guard by the violent impact.

    "Go."

    Lin Batianбпs arrival saved Xiao Lingyue. He used a spear to repel Su Chang, and then also summoned his Soul Changing Dharma Appearance.

    "Three heads and six arms of the Four Great Families."

    Su Chang saw Lin Batianбпs dharma body and immediately eximed in shock.

    "Itбпs toote to know now."

    Lin Batian was no longer afraid of revealing his identity. The guards and ves of the Ice Pce had already been killed, either by their own battle or by the aftermath. Today, Su Chang was also bound to die.

    The following battle was no longer suspenseful. Su Chang was actually very strong and had no match among his peers. Furthermore, he had a special body that grew stronger the more he got hurt or bled. In the end, he showed a power that exceeded his level of cultivation.

    Unfortunately, he encountered Lin Batian, who was also an unbeatable warrior of the same level. In the end, Su Chang could only be beaten so badly that he passed out.

    "If I were like him, at the early stage of Soul Changing, I would have to risk half of my life to defeat him."

    Lin Batian sighed and said that the cultivation world hadnбпt seen such a formidable warrior for a long time. It was a pity that he was now an enemy.

    "Lin Lang, letбпs not kill him for now."

    "Yueбпer, this person is hard to control. He has a vtile personality and poses a potential threat."

    "I know. I donбпt n to tame him. Instead, I want to bring him back to Xiaotian City and publicly execute him in a gruesome manner. This will serve as a warning to the petty criminals who oppose Xiaotian City. There are still many bandits in North State who havenбпt beenpletely eliminated. Let them see the consequences of going against Xiaotian City."

    Xiao Lingyue said that she wanted to use Su Chang to intimidate the petty criminals. She didnбпt want him to die too quickly because of how he had scared her earlier.

    "Okay."

    Lin Batian nodded. The group of thieves from North State has never beenpletely wiped out. Itбпs good to frighten them with Su Changбпs death. Besides, this person has killed so many people. Itбпs really too easy for him to die like this.

    Lin Batian personally took action, destroying Su Changбпs cultivation and shattering his meridians and dantian. Su Chang had no chance of escaping.

    Then, Lin Batian and Xiao Lingyue rushed back to Xiaotian City with Su Chang. The newly built Ice Pce was also destroyed, so they had to find someone to repair it. It would take a few months before they could return.

    Su Changбпs capture caused a great uproar in Xiaotian City. The name Su Chang was well-known and for the past few years, he had caused great harm to the people of Xiaotian City. Despite efforts, he couldnбпt be captured. Now that heбпs been caught, it naturally attracted a lot of attention.

    "Now that we have captured them, how should we execute them?"

    Lin Batian gathered everyone for discussion. Killing someone is easy, but killing them in an artistic way is much more difficult.

    "Skinning and bone removal."

    "Burning of the soul."

    "Beheading."

    The people started talking all at once, discussing how to get rid of Su Chang. They all had the right to speak because he had done the same thing to others. They just wanted an eye for an eye.

    "Maybe we can turn him into an evil spirit. We have many dark secret techniques, like human figures, ghosts, and enchanted objects."

    "Thatбпs a good n! Letбпs kill him like that. He deserves it after killing so many people, especially in the past few years. His victims all died terrible deaths. We shouldnбпt let him off so easily."

    "Letбпs make him into an enchanted object. I have a secret technique that can transfer him into the object. It will give the object great power. How does that sound? Itбпll be a powerful artifact."

    "Or we can turn him into a spirit item. With his strong soul, it will greatly enhance the power of the artifact."

    "Friend Tian and Friend Wei, what do you think?"

    Lin Batian said to Tian Li and Wei Dao, but they remained silent. He needed to ask for their opinions.

    "Brother Lin, letбпs not resort to the same methods as Su Chang. He is evil, but we are not. If we use the same methods against him, we would be too cruel. Itбпs better to let him meet his fate, whether itбпs life or death."

    Tian Li said that he and Wei Dao are from a respectable and righteous family. They should not be too malicious towards Su Chang, as it is not good for future generations. If descendants learn to achieve their goals without any moral standards, then there is no bottom line.

    "Brother Tian is right. We are on the right path, while Su Chang is on the wrong path. We should not lower ourselves to his level. Letбпs just directly defeat him and destroy his soul."

    Lin Batian nodded, saying that killing someone shouldnбпt be done excessively. It is enough to physically eliminate the personбпs body and soul. There is no need to say more.

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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 300:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Location: Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang led the executives of the tradingpany to the East District. Then, he took out a bunch of tokens and said. From now on, this entire street belongs to me. Starting today, you can borrow houses to live in. Each steward will have their own building, and two caretakers will share one building.

    "Thank you, host."

    The executives cheered and expressed their gratitude. These were luxurious houses in the East District, each of them beautiful. The spiritual energy in this area was abundant, so they no longer needed to use Spirit Gathering Formations to gather spirit stones, which saved them a lot of money.

    "The houses are chosen randomly, please donбпt be picky."

    Lin Jiang gave out the tokens in his hand. These tokens are like keys. He had already changed the formations of those mansions.

    "Boss, what about me?"

    Wei Lin walked up to Lin Jiang. Oh, those luxurious mansions, he wanted them too."But didnбпt you already live here?"

    "That was rented. I moved out."

    Wei Lin said, why spend money on rent when thereбпs a free ce to stay.

    "Wei Lin, donбпt say I didnбпt tell you the path to riches. Now is a great opportunity to buy low. The houses here are selling for very cheap."

    Lin Jiang said to Wei Lin, as the golden core and Nascent Soul of Xuanmiao City were repeatedly killed, arge number of them started to escape. The first reaction was a drastic drop in property prices here.

    Originally, the property in Xuanmiao City was very expensive, even more so than Yunzhong City. Especially the mansions in the east district, they were extremely expensive. But now, they are almost as cheap as cabbage, less than a third of their previous prices. Lin Jiang took advantage of this and bought over thirty houses, including some shops.

    "Master, you may be crazy, but I am not."

    Wei Lin shrugged, showing no interest. The advanced cultivators in Xuanmiao City are all leaving, who would dare to buy fixed assets at this time? Arenбпt they afraid of losing everything?

    "If you donбпt listen, itбпs fine. You wonбпt be rich, kid."

    Lin Jiang smiled and shook his head. Many people donбпt understand his actions now. There are very few people who dare to buy low at this time in Xuanmiao City, including other shop owners.

    Because Xuanmiao City is really in a slump now. There are less than one-third of the cultivators above the golden core levelpared to before, and there are also fewer building foundation and qi refining cultivators. Many people are pessimistic about the future of Xuanmiao City.

    But Lin Jiang is confident in Xuanmiao City, or rather, in the Tianxuan Sect. Since ancient times, no major sect has declined because of such things. It can be said that as long as the Blood Demon Ancestor dies, Xuanmiao City will recover and flourish. At that time, he can make a lot of money through these real estate properties.

    Wei Lin no longer spoke, but he was very hesitant. He secretly opened a shop in Xuanmiao City, copying Lin Jiangбпs actions. Basically, whatever Lin Jiang did, he made sure his shop did the same. He had been making profits before, but this time, he didnбпt follow suit. He was still hesitating.

    "Otherwise, Iбпll buy one or two sets too? If I lose, it wonбпt affect me, but if I donбпt lose, Iбпll earn some pocket money."

    Wei Lin thought to himself. The houses in Xuanmiao City are now very cheap, and he can afford to buy a few.

    "Father, what about me? What about me?"

    Small Shadiao also came forward, living in a luxurious mansion, who wouldnбпt want that?

    "You, do you want me to build a birdбпs nest for you?"

    "Father, you canбпt do this. If I have to live in a birdбпs nest, so be it. But I have a wife too, our family doesnбпt mistreat women."

    "Stop talking nonsense. You will live with me. Iбпve kept arge luxurious mansion for myself. I will live in the backyard, and you can live in the front yard. Donбпt forget, your duty is to protect me. If anything happens, you have to take charge, understand?"

    Lin Jiang said. Small Shadiao, youбпve married and forgotten about your father. Youбпre bing more and more unreasonable. Donбпt you know that as a beast pet, your responsibility is to protect your owner, and in critical moments, you should act as a spear for them?

    "You can live with me, but at night, you canбпt eavesdrop on conversations."

    "Huh, am I that kind of person? Zhongmiao Building is currently on a big discount. Donбпt you think it would be great if I went there? Why on earth would I need to eavesdrop?"

    Lin Jiang became furious. Small Shadiao underestimated him. Did he think Lin Jiang was just a nobody on Blue Star? Canбпt he see that Lin Jiang is skilled and capable?

    Talking about Zhongmiao Building, Small Shadiao first looked around and didnбпt see Snow Woman. He immediately exchanged a nce with Wei Lin, smirked, and said that recently, Xuanmiao Cityбпs economy was bad and even the fairy in Zhongmiao Building was struggling. They needed to go help.

    In the sky above Xuanmiao City, a cultivator from Tianxuan Sect slowly approached. The higher-ups of Tianxuan Sect immediately went to greet him.

    "Greetings, Ancestor."

    "No need for formalities, we have already borrowed the Tongtian Mirror. I wonder if the aura of the Blood Demon Ancestor has been refined."

    "Reporting to the Ancestor, it has been refined. I specifically went to North State and found a tribe that was wiped out by the Blood Demon Ancestor. After three days, I refined three strands of the Blood Demonбпs aura."

    "Thank you for your hard work."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect nodded. Blood Demon Ancestor was extremely cautious in his killings in Xuanmiao City, leaving no clues. They could only search in North State.

    On the ground, there was a jade bottle. The Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect opened it, and a strand of red aura floated out. He used a spell to stabilize it, and then he used the Tongtian Mirror. The Tongtian Mirror had a simple appearance, simr to an ordinary bronze mirror. But as the Tao Achieving cultivator infused it with spiritual energy, the Tongtian Mirror immediately underwent changes.

    "Boom"

    The Tongtian Mirror emitted a ray of light, forming a light curtain in the sky. Within the light curtain, a middle-aged man appeared.

    "Itбпs him."

    "Junior brother has seen him before."

    "This person has been in Xuanmiao City for several years, quite mysterious."

    A Void Achieving said, he was previously in charge of Xuanmiao Cityбпs Void Achieving. He had seen the Blood Demon Ancestor in Xuanmiao City, but at that time, the Blood Demon Ancestor had changed his appearance, so he didnбпt notice.

    "To think that he hid in Xuanmiao City for so many years, it is truly a disgrace for us."

    "The Blood Demon Ancestorбпs disguising skills are impressive. It is normal for junior brother not to have noticed, no need to worry."

    The few of them discussed, their legs were getting numb. The Blood Demon Ancestor had hidden right under their noses for so long. If they had discovered it earlier, things would not have turned out this way.

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect didnбпt say much. They just used the Tongtian Mirror to check the surroundings of Blood Demon Ancestor and try to determine their location.

    "Uh-oh, Blood Demon Ancestor sensed it and started moving quickly."

    "Itбпs okay, they canбпt escape."

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect said, as the Blood Demon Ancestor in the mirror sensed being watched and started moving fast. No matter how they moved or changed appearance, it didnбпt matter as the Tongtian Mirror had all the control.

    "Two people, go ahead and stop the Blood Demon Ancestor. They should be in Liang State."

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect has already determined the general location of the Blood Demon Ancestor. They should be hiding in Liang State, which was expected. They wouldnбпt dare to go to a ce like Zhongzhou where there are many Tao Achieving cultivators who can easily kill them.

    Zhou Huaiying also stepped forward at this time. The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect captured a strand of breath into apass treasure and handed it to Zhou Huaiying and another person. They quickly bowed and left.

    "Senior, the two senior brothers may not be able to catch the Blood Demon Ancestor. Let me go as well."

    "No, you stay here and guard Xuanmiao City. Iбпve already ordered the activation of the mountain protection formation. This time, I will personally go."

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect said that the Blood Demon Ancestor is a great threat and they cannot let him escape again. He needs to take action personally.

    After giving the order, the Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect rushed to the Liang State. His speed was not fast because he had to use the Tongtian Mirror to monitor the Blood Demon Ancestor. The Blood Demon Ancestor was moving at high speed and constantly changing directions, so they needed real-time updates.

    Two hourster, the Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect saw the figures of Zhou Huaiying and another person in the Tongtian Mirror. They had already found the Blood Demon Ancestor andunched an attack together. The Blood Demon Ancestor was no match for them, but he escaped quickly and kept evading.

    "Whatбпs wrong with Zhou Huaiying? He let him escape twice."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect watched the battle and felt a little angry. The Blood Demon Ancestorбпs Art of Blood Escape was very famous, but they had already found ways to counter it.

    One of the methods was to use a treasure that could freeze the surroundings when he used his escape technique, preventing him from turning into blood and escaping. However, Zhou Huaiying acted toote and the Blood Demon Ancestor still managed to run away.

    Another method was to use a seventh-level Sealing Symbol to directly seal the space. But once again, Zhou Huaiyingбпs timing was too slow and both treasures were wasted.

    "Huaiying has been in the Divine Kingdom for too long. Aftering out, he hasnбпt fought against a Tao Achieving taoist friend of the same level. It seems that I have to remind him to practice more in the future."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect didnбпt doubt much. He just felt that Zhou Huaiying hadnбпt fought in the Void Achieving realm before, so hisbat experience wascking. He needed to practice more in the future, or else he might be at a disadvantage in battles against enemies.

 Chapter 301:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Liang State.

    When the Tao Achieving cultivator from Tianxuan Sect found Blood Demon Ancestor, Blood Demon Ancestor and Zhou Huaiyingбпs group had already ventured deep into the Wilderness. The demonic n took action.

    Void Achieving Ancestor was engaged in battle in the Wilderness, and the ones who suffered the most were the demonic n. Even a slight shockwave was enough to kill countless weak demonic nsmen, and the powerful ones were also filled with fear.

    Therefore, the Demon Kings from various domains quickly reported that the demonic n in the deep recesses had taken action. A towering Stone Monster, several hundred zhang in height, appeared.

    From a distance, it threw a punch at Zhou Huaiyingбпs group. The enormous fist was about tond, causing the expressions of Zhou Huaiying and the others to change drastically. They hurriedly fled to avoid the punch.

    "Seventh Order Demon Emperor"

    "Equivalent to a Tao Achieving Demon Emperor"

    "Run quickly."The three people were very shocked and quickly ran away. Soon, Zhou Huaiying and the others encountered the old ancestor of the Tianxuan Sect.

    "Old ancestor, it was the Stone Emperor who made a move."

    "I understand. I will go stop the Stone Emperor. You continue to chase and kill the Blood Demon Ancestor, no matter what."

    The Tao Achieving cultivator of the Tianxuan Sect nodded and then flew in front of the Stone Emperor.

    "Stone Emperor, please stop. We have no intention of fighting with the monster n. We are only dealing with the traitors among the human n."

    "You humans have invaded our territory, killed our n members, and dare to say you have no intention of fighting?"

    "We will leave immediately. Please donбпt trouble us, Stone Emperor."

    "If youбпvee, donбпt even think about leaving."

    The Stone Emperor became very angry and didnбпt care about anything else. He raised his fist and attacked, with every punch aiming at the Tao Achieving cultivator of the Tianxuan Sect.

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect who had attained Tao couldnбпt dare to directly face Stone Emperorбпs attacks. Stone Emperor wasnбпt really a monster, but more like a powerful creature. His strength was even stronger than ordinary monsters, and the most important thing was that his defense was invincible. It was impossible to break through.

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect who had attained Tao relied on agile footwork to dodge Stone Emperorбпs attacks. asionally, he would use some spells, but they didnбпt even scratch Stone Emperor, who didnбпt bother to dodge. He relied solely on his powerful defense to withstand the attacks.

    The cultivator from Tianxuan Sect who had attained Tao knew that using a powerful move wouldnбпt pose any threat to Stone Emperor, and he didnбпt want to risk his life. So he just kept entangling with him, focusing on defending against Stone Emperorбпs attacks.

    Meanwhile, Blood Demon Ancestor fought fiercely against the Void Achieving cultivators from Tianxuan Sect. Blood Demon Ancestor went all out, but he couldnбпt really beat both of the Void Achieving cultivators. He had to fight one while constantly evading the other.

    He didnбпt dare to venture into the depths of the Wilderness, so he could only head north. Even though the Wilderness was still present in the north, the level of monsters there wasnбпt very high. There were very few Demon Emperors at the seventh rank in the western area.

    The three of them, one fleeing and the other two pursuing, had already lost track of where they were. All they knew was that they were surrounded by deserts.

    "Zhou Huaiying, help me kill your fellow sect member, or else I will report you," said Blood Demon Ancestor urgently to Zhou Huaiying.

    Blood Demon Ancestor was getting desperate due to the pursuit, so he spoke to Zhou Huaiying.

    "Dream on. Pretend to be dead and escape, or else you will really die."

    "Zhou Huaiying, donбпt force me, Iбпm dying, Iбпll definitely drag you down."

    "Head west, deep into the Wilderness, to escape from the monster race."

    Zhou Huaiying said, being dragged into trouble by the Blood Demon Ancestor, he had no choice.

    "Senior brother, what did the Blood Demon Ancestor say to you?"

    "Heбпs trying to sow discord, how could I fall for it?"

    "Is that right?"

    "Junior brother doesnбпt trust me?"

    "Well, not exactly."

    Tianxuan Sectбпs Void Achieving said, he sensed the two whispering, but he couldnбпt believe that Zhou Huaiying would collude with the Blood Demon Ancestor. After all, Tianxuan Sect was a reputable and orthodox sect, and as a high-ranking member of Tianxuan Sect, there was no reason for him to associate with the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor turned around again and headed west. The further west they went, the stronger the demon n became. Although there were no seventh-level Demon Emperors, there were several sixth-level demons who chased and blocked them.

    "Junior brother, I will intercept the demon n while you go and kill the Blood Demon Ancestor."

    "Senior brother, how about I intercept the demon n instead?"

    "I have run out of the amulet that restrains the Blood Demon Ancestor. I cannot stop him. You go."

    Zhou Huaiying said, and Tianxuan Sect Void Achieving agreed, there is no specific treasure that can restrain the Blood Demon Ancestor.

    Zhou Huaiying attacked a sixth-level demon, not sure if it was an illusion, but when fighting against the Blood Demon Ancestor, he didnбпt seem so powerful. However, when fighting against the demon n, he was extremely fierce and forced several sixth-level demons toe to their aid, sessfully restraining the demon n.

    In the wilderness, somewhere.

    Zhou Huaiying gracefullynded and the Blood Demon Ancestor immediately appeared.

    "How did you escape the tracking of the Tongtian Mirror?"

    "Whatбпs so difficult about it? The Tongtian Mirror tracks me by sensing my presence, but I had some Clone Symbols made with my Blood Core attached to them. I run around with them and the Tongtian Mirror canбпt distinguish."

    Blood Demon Ancestor said. Even though the Tongtian Mirror is powerful, there are ways to avoid it. I learned from Zhou Huaiying that the Tianxuan Sect Ancestor borrowed the Tongtian Mirror, so I started preparing.

    "What are you going to do next? Hide!"

    "Hide? Why do we have to hide?"

    "What do you want to do?"

    "Iбпve said it before, I want to achieve Tao, and I need powerful blood nourishment. I want you to sacrifice the Tianxuan Sect. I donбпt want to hide anymore. As a respectable Void Achieving cultivator, I donбпt want to live like a mouse."

    Blood Demon Ancestor said seriously. He is a Void Achieving cultivator. In the cultivation world, there are only a few hundred Void Achieving cultivators. They are all distinguished and respected, unlike him, living like a mouse.

    So he couldnбпt bear this anymore. He wants to achieve Tao and openly appear in the cultivation world, making everyone powerless against him.

    "Impossible"

    "Nothing is impossible. Zhou Huaiying, either you will be ruined, or you will follow me until the end."

    The Blood Demon Ancestor threatened, initially intending to n slowly. Zhou Huaiying would eventually have to be corrupted by him, but now he was impatient.

    "Threaten me, and youбпre asking for death."

    "Hmph, you want to get off my pirate ship? Zhou Huaiying, itбпs you who wants to die. Think about it, if the fact that you are practicing the Blood Demon Manual is exposed, how will the Tianxuan Sect treat you?"

    "I can abandon this part of my cultivation. I donбпt treat the Blood Demon Manual as my main practice."

    Are you willing to give it up? I ask you, are you willing to abandon the Blood Demon Manual? How long will it take for you to achieve the Tao? One thousand or two thousand years? Do you still have enough lifespan?

    But the Blood Demon Manual is different. With enough blood as nourishment, cultivation can advance rapidly. Achieving the Tao is very simple, even reaching the Disaster Crossing Period is not difficult. If you be a Disaster Crossing Period cultivator, who in the world will still be your opponent?

    Forget about fame, status, and other such things. What are theypared to strength and immortality? When the dayes that you reign over the world, who would dare to speak against you?"

    The evil ancestor continued to deceive people. He believed that these words could weaken the willpower and strength of most people by 99%. The words like "immortality" and "power" were very tempting to all cultivators.

    Zhou Huaiying indeed showed aplex expression, seeming very hesitant and struggling. Seeing Zhou Huaiyingбпs expression, the Blood Demon Ancestor felt quite proud. In his eyes, Zhou Huaiying was already trapped and could not escape from him.

    He had already nned to use Zhou Huaiying as a sacrifice for the entire Tianxuan Sect. He would plot against the Tao Achieving cultivators of the Tianxuan Sect. After the sacrifice, he would at least reach the peak of the Void Achieving stage. If he could advance to the Tao Achieving stage, that would be even better. If not, he would devour Zhou Huaiying as well, and then he would definitely reach the Tao Achieving stage.

    "Youбн"

    However, just when the Blood Demon Ancestor was feeling triumphant, he suddenly sensed a foreboding feeling. He instinctively wanted to use the Art of Blood Escape to flee, but the next moment, he fell from the void.

    "A magical symbol for sealing."

    "Zhou Huaiying, dare you attack me? Arenбпt you afraid of death?"

    "If you donбпt die, I wonбпt have peace of mind."

    Zhou Huaiying suddenly made a move. His first move was not to attack the Blood Demon Ancestor by surprise, but to use the Sealing Symbol, sealing off the surrounding space to prevent the Blood Demon Ancestor from escaping.

    "How dare you, who gave you the courage?"

    The Blood Demon Ancestor became very angry and immediately used a secret technique to try and kill Zhou Huaiying.

    "Youбн"

    However, the Blood Demon Ancestor was surprised to see that Zhou Huaiying was not severely injured as expected, but rather, he was just mocking him.

    "Itбпs impossible, how could you be unharmed?"

    "Itбпs just the Mother-child Secret Method, do you really think the Blood Demon Manual is powerful?"

    Zhou Huaiying sneered and exined that within the Blood Demon Manual, there was a secret technique called the Mother-child Secret Method. The Blood Demon Ancestor practiced the "mother" technique and passed on the "child" technique to him. If the two shed, the Blood Demon Ancestor could easily kill him by activating the secret technique.

    However, the Blood Demon Ancestor was unaware that Zhou Huaiying already knew about this secret technique. The main sect had extensively studied these forbidden arts and shared their ws with their disciples, prohibiting them from practicing such dark arts.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor, being an independent cultivator, had no knowledge of the depths of the main sectбпs teachings. On the other hand, Zhou Huaiying was well-prepared. He had previously studied the Blood Demon Manual but didnбпt consider it as his main cultivation method. Beforeing here, he had already invalidated the manual and the Mother-child Secret Method had no effect on him.

    "I will kill you directly."

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was terrified. He miscalcted and didnбпt expect Zhou Huaiying to be so cunning. While he was plotting against Zhou Huaiying, Zhou Huaiying was also plotting against him. Moreover, he was at a disadvantage.

    "Tremble!"

    Zhou Huaiying faced the attack from the Blood Demon Ancestor calmly. He took out a bell from his bag and when he activated it, the bell rang and invisible sound waves exploded, causing the Blood Demon Ancestor to spit blood and fall backwards.

    "How about that? This replica of the Soul Calming Bell is not bad, right? It has about 80% of the power of the real Soul Calming Bell."

    Zhou Huaiyingughed. After studying the Blood Demon Manual, he knew the weakness of the Blood Demon Ancestor иC his spirit was weak. So, he spent decades of savings to specially have this Soul Calming Bell made.

    The Soul Calming Bell used to be the Thunder Emperorбпs treasure, but it has long been lost. However, its refining techniques have been passed down. The Soul Calming Bell in his hands only has about 70-80% of the power of the one the Thunder Emperor had, but it is enough.

    "Iбпll fight you with all I have! Blood transformation, magic!"

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was extremely terrified. He couldnбпt afford to dy any longer, so he fought desperately. His body exploded, countless Blood Worms emerged, forming arge Blood Demon mouth, ready to devour Zhou Huaiying. As long as he swallowed Zhou Huaiying, he would be able to assimte him.

    "Big Sun ze"

    When Zhou Huaiying saw this, he summoned a spiritual fire, a very hot fire that instantly covered his whole body. Countless Blood Worms were burned to ashes, but even more Blood Worms came flooding in, trying to extinguish the spiritual fire and assimte Zhou Huaiying.

    "Super Cold Blue mes"

    Zhou Huaiying saw that the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs Blood Worms had poured out in great numbers and were highly concentrated. He summoned another treasure иC three Super Cold Blue mes appeared. When extreme heat met extreme cold, the Blood Worms started exploding one after another, causing even the Blood Demon Ancestorбпs dharma body to shatter.

    The Blood Demon Ancestor was filled with extreme fear and tried to escape out of habit, but he ran into a Sealing Symbol once again. The Art of Blood Escape failed. When he turned around, he saw the cold expression on Zhou Huaiyingбпs face.

 Chapter 302:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    The State of You, Tianxuan Sect

    "After the Patriarch arrived, Senior Zhou and I continued to chase after the Blood Demon Ancestor. The Blood Demon Ancestor tried to sow discord and tempt Senior Zhou, but he refused. Afterward, Senior Zhou and I followed the Blood Demon Ancestor into the Wilderness and encountered a sixth rank demonic beast. Senior Zhouбн"

    Void Achieving from Tianxuan Sect exined the whole process to Tao Achieving, and Zhou Huaiying was also present. As soon as he finished speaking, Zhou Huaiying immediately said. The Blood Demon Ancestor also tried to tempt me with the Blood Demon Manual, but he was simply ignorant. And that Blood Demon Ancestor was also unlucky. He managed to escape from my junior brotherбпs pursuit, but I coincidentally freed myself from the entanglement of the demonic n and ran into him.

    So I fought Blood Demon Ancestor again, but after a long battle, he was weak and I dealt a heavy blow to him. However, he managed to escape into the depths of the Wilderness. I saw some monsters trying to help him, so I didnбпt dare to chase him anymore. I think Blood Demon Ancestor must be dead by now."

    "Maybe not. I used the Tongtian Mirror to track him, and I found out that Blood Demon Ancestor used a Clone Symbol to hide from me. Later, the power of the Clone Symbol ran out, but it was already several dayster. Blood Demon Ancestor might still be alive, but he somehow managed to avoid being tracked by the Tongtian Mirror."

    "Master, if thatбпs the case, he must have incredible luck to still be alive."

    "Yes, Blood Demon Ancestor has been heavily injured by us several times."

    "Itбпs different. I have read fragments of the Blood Demon Manual before. When this cultivation technique is practiced to a high level, onepletely abandons the physical body. The body you see is just an illusion. In the end, Blood Demon Ancestor bes a blood clot. But even the blood clot can be discarded, as long as his soul and Blood Core are intact."Tianxuan Sectбпs aplished cultivator exined that the evil cultivation path has its own drawbacks. When one practices the Blood Demon Manual to the extreme, they give up their physical body and be something neither human nor ghost.

    "In your opinion, Master, how should we spread the message to the outside world?"

    "We shall say that Blood Demon Ancestor is heavily wounded and near death, and that he has left the state of You. Inform all the states and sects to be cautious. If they spot him, they must kill him without hesitation."

    "Yes, Master."

    "You all go first, let Huaiying stay for a while."

    The founder of the Tianxuan Sect nodded, then asked the others to leave, but only Zhou Huaiying stayed behind.

    Xuanmiao City

    Lin Batian quietly appeared in Lin Dongyanбпs mansion, which was borrowed by Lin Jiang. It was veryrge and luxurious. Originally, Lin Jiang even arranged dozens of servants to serve him, but Lin Dongyan refused. He didnбпt have time to enjoy such luxuries. He was a hardworking person, or you could say he was a workaholic. He hadnбпt taken a break for several years.

    "Greetings, Master."

    "Dongyan, no need to be too polite. Have a seat and letбпs talk."

    "Yes, Master. The Master rushed here from Xiaotian City. I wonder what it is about."

    "There are some uncertain matters. I wanted to hear your opinion."

    "Master, please speak."

    "Not long ago, I captured and killed the infamous Killing Demon Su Chang. Before killing him, I searched his soul and learned about his life. Su Chang was originally the Medicine ve of the Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyunбн"

    Lin Batian slowly began, Su Changбпs life was truly tragic. He was originally a cultivator from a small family. Although the familyбпs power was not great, they lived without worries and were well-loved.

    Until his whole family became the target of the Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun, with most of their n members being killed and the rest captured as Medicine ves in the North State. But what is a Medicine ve? It is a ve used for testing medicines.

    He witnessed with his own eyes as the remaining n members were mercilessly killed by the Evil Pill King, including himself. He was constantly used by the Evil Pill King as a test subject for medicines, treating his injuries with medicines that pushed him to the brink of death before healing him. Poison was used before the cure, causing him all sorts of torment.

    In order to test the effects of certain elixirs on high-level cultivators, the Evil Pill King even took the initiative to enhance his cultivation. In short, that period of his life resulted in Su Chang developing a twisted mentality.

    Eventually, Su Chang sessfully killed the Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun in revenge. However, Su Chang had no talent in alchemy, so he only inherited a portion of the Evil Pill Kingбпs wealth. He buried the rest of the things, including the remains, and asionally dug up the Evil Pill Kingбпs body tosh and desecrate it.

    However, the main point Lin Batian wanted to make wasnбпt about that. The focus was that through Su Changбпs memories, he found the ce where Su Chang buried the Evil Pill King and obtained the Evil Pill Kingбпs legacy.

    "So, Master is interested in the alchemy legacy of the Evil Pill King?"

    "Yes"

    "The head of the family knows that Evil Pill King is a notorious person, even in the remote Yun State. Any legitimate disciple must learn from Evil Pill Kingбпs example. This person is extremely wicked, having killed their own parents, rtives, friends, and even the person who saved their life. Moreover, the medicines they study are extremely evil."

    Lin Dongyan said. Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun has a notorious reputation in the cultivation world. Almost everyone who practices alchemy knows about them, and they have been hunted down by all sects.

    "But some of Evil Pill Kingбпs medicines are truly powerful, much stronger than ordinary ones."

    "Head of the familyбн"

    Dong Yan, I know that you are a conscientious alchemist, but please understand my situation. I carry a deep-seated blood feud. I have witnessed my family members being tragically killed right before my eyes, and I have seen the decline of a once powerful n.

    During the time in Yun State, the Lin family were all my descendants, but how many of them died? Go ask the people who have returned to Yun State, how many descendants of the Lin family are left, even among the ordinary people, and how many have died.

    Seeking revenge is incredibly difficult, and the enemy is incredibly strong. We have been wandering around for these years, from Qing State to Bing State, from the central region to the North State, moving multiple times. How many of our n members have been dyed in their cultivation because of this?

    In order to seek revenge, I am willing to pay any price, even if it means being despised by thousands of people. Dong Yan, do you understand my feelings?

    "Master, Dongyan is willing to give everything for the family, even his life, but please also have mercy on the young members of the n. Many of them are innocent. Once this matter is exposed, the entire Lin family will be despised by the cultivation world, and even the Lin family ancestors will be cursed for thousands of years."

    Lin Dongyan said that he could understand Lin Batianбпs difficulties, but he also felt sorry for the young members of the Lin family. They were born burdened with immense hatred.

    I know, how can I not know? But thereбпs no choice, Dongyan. You and I were born into the Lin family, and thatбпs something we canбпt change. All I can do is protect this secret with all my might. If there everes a day when this matter is exposed, I will bear the responsibility on my own.

    I will arrange for you to rest and recuperate in different ces. If it is exposed, you will directly change your surname and cut ties with the Lin family. Dongyan, please grant my request as the family master.

    "Masterбн"

    Lin Dongyan was greatly shocked. He had never seen Lin Batian so humbly begging someone before. Lin Batian always disyed an assertive attitude, even in the face of great danger.

    "Dongyanбн"

    "Master, I promise."

    Lin Dongyan reluctantly agreed. The master had pleaded with him like this, how could he refuse?

    "Thank you, Dongyan. These are the pill forms and alchemy notes left by the Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun. Take a look."

    Lin Batian spoke softly and handed Lin Dongyan a few jade scrolls.

    Lin Dongyan opened the jade scrolls and his expression turned extremely shocked. The pill forms left by the Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun were incredibly terrifying. Most of the main ingredients for these pills were no longer spiritual medicines, but cultivators.

    For example, there was a longevity pill that could strip cultivators of their lifespan for oneбпs own use. Although it could only retain about one-tenth of the lifespan, it was still extremely dreadful.

    "Master, if these pills are truly effective, once they spread, it will be a catastrophe for the entire human race. Take this longevity pill for example, using cultivators as the main ingredient. Even if it only retains one-tenth of their lifespan, it would be enough to drive countless cultivators mad."

    "I know, thatбпs why I am intrigued."

    "But what ifбн"

    "There are no боifsбп. This matter must be kept secret. After you finish reading these jade scrolls, destroy them. I will ce a seal within your soul to prevent anyone from extracting your memories."

    Lin Batian said, even though he didnбпt know alchemy himself, he understood the power and significance of these pill forms. If they were proven to be effective, it could potentially change the entire cultivation world.

    "Okay, but I only take care of making pills. Someone else is responsible for finding the ingredients for making pills."

    "Do you have any rmendations?"

    "Uncle Lin Wu"

    "Does it have to be him?"

    "The Lin family is unparalleled when ites to managing talents. From Shenmu City to Xuanmiao City, his business can quickly change the situation. Who else in the Lin family can do that?"

    "Thatбпs true. He has been a great help in these years."

    Lin Batian nodded. Over the years, the business in Xuanmiao City has been running smoothly, earning profits and exchanging resources for the Lin family. Thatбпs how he has been able to sustain the Lin family.

    "Then letбпs find him. I will personally talk to him. We shouldnбпt involve more people in this matter. Only the three of us should know."

    Lin Batian said. He didnбпt tell anyone about this matter. Only three people should know, not even one more.

 Chapter 303:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You State, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang entered Lin Dongyanбпs mansion and was surprised to see Lin Batian there. The chances of Lin Batianing to Xuanmiao City instead of the business district were very low.

    "Greetings, master of the house."

    "Lin Wu, youбпvee at the perfect time. Come, let me show you something good."

    Lin Batian took out a jade slip and handed it to Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang had no reason to mistrust Lin Batian, so he casually scanned it with his spiritual awareness.

    However, as soon as Lin Jiang scanned it, his whole body stiffened. A chill ran up his spine, and he felt as if he had fallen into an icy cave.

    The jade slip contained information about a special pill, made from human as the main ingredient, extracting their life force. It could transfer their life force to oneself.

    Seeing the form for this pill, Lin Jiang instinctively felt that he had been exposed. His secret of longevity, which he had kept for over four hundred years, was now at risk. He was too scared to move.Because his current lifespan is over a hundred thousand, ording to this prescription, even if only ten percent is effective, it would still be over ten thousand years. How many years of lifespan does Void Achieving have? Theoretically, it is only five thousand years.

    Lin Batian saw Lin Jiangбпs expression and was very satisfied. This is how an ordinary person should behave. He nced at Lin Dongyan and then said. So, what do you think?

    "Umбн"

    "Lin Wu, only the most loyal members of the Lin family can know such secrets. Do you understand my intentions?"

    "Ah!"

    "Lin Wu, donбпt me me for deceiving you. Itбпs just that this matter is of great importance. If I had told you in advance, you would have refused. So I can only let you see it first. Once youбпve seen it, you wonбпt have a choice."

    "Ah!"

    Lin Jiang suddenly realized that he had misunderstood. The secret was not exposed.

    At that moment, Lin Jiang felt terrified. This was his biggest secret. If it were revealed, he would be like a piece of meat in the cultivation world, everyone wanting a bite.

    "Donбпt look at me like that, I know itбпs a bit hical, but I have my reasons."

    "Uncle, being the head of the family is also a difficult decision, you seeбн"

    "*sigh*"

    Lin Jiang took a deep breath and took a few more to calm himself down.

    "Lin Wu has the trust of the Xie Familyбпs head, so the head can say whatever he wants."

    "Dongyan, itбпs your turn to speak."

    Lin Batian felt extremely ufortable as soon as he heard it, he sensed Lin Jiangбпs dissatisfaction.

    Lin Dongyan immediately exined the cause and effect to Lin Jiang. After listening, Lin Jiang furrowed his brow again. He had heard a little about Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun, but he didnбпt know what this person was actually researching.

    "Uncle, this Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun is truly a genius. Not only in the field of medicine, but also in other areas, he has made significant contributions. His entire lifeбпs research is about improving strength and increasing lifespan. I havenбпt confirmed the authenticity of these pill forms yet, but once I do, it will be vital for the Lin family. The Lin family will have a chance to soar."

    "No need to say more. Since the head of the family has done so, just tell me how to do it."

    Lin Jiang quickly said, without any hesitation, because he knew that once he read the jade slip, he would be in trouble. Lin Batian didnбпt give him a chance to choose. If he refused, the consequences would be unpredictable. Lin Jiang didnбпt dare to gamble on Lin Batianбп feelings towards him. He didnбпt know that he was Lin Batianбп biological son. Lin Jiang could guarantee that he would be abandoned by Lin Batian, just like the Lin family members in Anhua City back then.

    "Gather materials to provide shelter for Dongyanбпs pill refining."

    "If I use someone to refine pills, my strength is insufficient."

    "I can handle this. You find other materials, but no one can know about this, no one."

    "This is not difficult."

    Lin Jiang said, itбпs really not difficult. With hispanyбпs annual revenue of tens of billions, itбпs a piece of cake to nt something.

    "Thatбпs good. Iбпll consider it as you agreeing. I will set a restriction in your soul to prevent others from searching your soul."

    "Okay, but I want something in return."

    "What do you want in return?"

    "When the pills are refined, I want to be the first to enjoy them. I want to enhance my cultivation, as my life is not long. I donбпt want pills for longevity, I want pills to enhance my cultivation."

    Lin Jiang immediately said. Since Lin Batian has treated him like this, he wonбпt be polite anymore. Go ahead and eat, itбпs just using someone for alchemy. Heбпs not afraid anymore.

    Some of the medicines on the Blue Star are even refined from other peopleбпs feces, but that doesnбпt disgust anyone. The Purple Car Riverбпs things have been passed down for thousands of years, and people have been consuming it all along.

    In such a dangerous cultivation world, he wonбпt bezy, wonбпt be reckless, and wonбпt be a nobody anymore. He wants to enhance his cultivation and reach the top in the cultivation world.

    "This I can promise, and I will also fulfill what I previously promised you."

    Lin Batian nodded. He knows that Lin Jiang is full of resentment right now, so he should make it up to him.

    After speaking, Lin Batian took out a storage bag and said. Here are three martial arts techniques and sixteen secret techniques. Besides our four major familiesбп secret techniques, there are also some other top-level secret techniques.

    "Are there any Soul Changing Dharma Appearance secret techniques from the four major families?"

    "No, those magic techniques are useless for you. You canбпt practice them without reaching the level of Soul Changing. Once you reach the Soul Changing level, they will naturally be passed on to you."

    Lin Batian said that the techniques like three heads and six arms are too advanced for Lin Jiang to learn right now. They are useless for him.

    "Okay."

    Lin Jiang didnбпt say anything else and directly epted the storage bag. He deserved everything in it.

    Everything was deserved, even if they didnбпt say it. Lin Jiang also knew the seriousness of the Evil Pill matter. Once exposed, all three of them would have nowhere to hide and would face death. So, Lin Jiang could take any benefits and feel at ease.

    The three of them then discussed how to carry out this matter. Such a secretive matter required careful actions to ensure nothing went wrong.

    бд

    "Invisibility technique, Killing Demon Su Changбпs concealment technique. This is powerful."

    Inside his own mansion, Lin Jiang opened the storage bag given by Lin Batian and casually picked up a jade slip. It contained an invisibility technique called Invisibility technique.

    This magic is extremely advanced yet extremely powerful. Su Chang used this magic to escape the chasing in Xiaotian City time and time again, making Lin Jiang very happy. He immediately decided to practice it well.

    "Blood Burst Magic, Low Health Secret Magic, oh no, I canбпt practice this."

    Soon, Lin Jiang discovered another powerful secret magic called Low Health Secret Magic. After practicing it, the more injured he is, the stronger he can be in battles. Itбпs also a magic that strains the body.

    However, when Lin Jiang saw how to practice it, he gave up because this magic requires self-harm. Normally, he would randomly cut himself hundreds of times, and only when he didnбпt die, would it trigger his ferocious potential.

    Lin Jiang naturally gave up on such a brutal magic. He couldnбпt bring himself to be that cruel to himself. What if he identally trained himself to death? That wouldnбпt be good.

    "I wonder if Small Shadiao can practice it. If he can, Iбпll definitely force him to practice it."

    Lin Jiang muttered, saying that it would be great if Small Shadiao practiced it. In the future, he could unleash his power and defeat even stronger enemies.

    "Six Methods of Spiritual Cultivation"

    Lin Jiang continued to read about the next secret magic, and he saw one that specializes in training the soul. It focuses on both offense and defense, specifically practicing attacks and defenses using the soul to resist attacks on the soul from enemies.

    "This secret technique requires a strong spiritual awareness, and luckily I meet the requirements. After practicing the Soul Refining Technique for many years, my spiritual awareness is even stronger than that of most advanced cultivators with a golden core."

    Lin Jiang really enjoys this secret method. Most cultivators donбпt specifically strengthen their soul, they only rely on their cultivation level to enhance their strength. So, the effectiveness of this soul technique is very strong.

    Lin Jiang has also seen the other secret techniques, and they are all extremely powerful. Each one can make independent cultivators go crazy to obtain them. Itбпs clear that Lin Batian has made a big effort to win Lin Jiang over.

    "First, he tricked me onto a thiefбпs ship, and then he invested in me to win me over and appease me. If it were an ordinary person, they would have reluctantly agreed. Unfortunately, I have a rebellious nature."

    Finally, Lin Jiang sighed. Lin Batian has really disappointed him this time.

    If Lin Batian had been honest from the beginning, Lin Jiang would have helped him without hesitation. He would never sit idly by, even if it went against the heavens and was extremely malicious. But Lin Batian started by tricking him, which made Lin Jiang extremely disgusted.

    In Lin Jiangбпs view, this is a greatck of trust towards him, which is why Lin Batian had to bind him with a dangerous future. Itбпs like giving someone a sweet date after hitting them with a stick.

    Maybe an ordinary person wouldnбпt react much, but Lin Jiang finds it extremely difficult to ept.

    It was unavoidable to agree to it before. After seeing such confidential information, how could you dare to refuse?

    "They made a n, Lin family doesnбпt have Soul Lamp, so once they extinguish their own Soul Lamp in the Five Elements Sect, they can basicallypletely leave behind this identity."

    Lin Jiang thought to himself that Xiao Yiбпs identity should also be abandoned, including even the Lin family. He didnбпt really want to have any contact with them anymore. He didnбпt like fighting, revenge, he just wanted to practice peacefully, thatбпs it.

 Chapter 304:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You State, Xuanmiao City

    б░I heard youбпre going to be rich?б▒

    At a restaurant, Zhou Huaiying said to Lin Jiang that three months ago, Tianxuan Sect announced that the Blood Demon Ancestor was critically injured and likely died in the Wilderness. Even if he didnбпt die, he was unable to cause trouble in Xuanmiao City anymore.

    This boosted the morale of the cultivators. Now, after three months, the golden core and Nascent Soul cultivators in Xuanmiao City are no longer disappearing for no reason. This tangible phenomenon has caused high-level cultivators to return to Xuanmiao City.

    As these people return, it naturally leads to an increase in housing prices in Xuanmiao City. As a spector who took advantage of this opportunity, Lin Jiang is going to make a fortune.

    б░Senior, rumors in the martial world cannot be trusted.б▒

    б░I donбпt want your money, so why are you worried?б▒

    б░Iбпm not worried, itбпs just that I havenбпt made any money yet. The housing prices havenбпt gone up, and most businesses this year have been running at a loss. Iбпm barely keeping things bnced.б▒б░You always lose money in business, huh?б▒

    б░Senior, Iбпm a good person. Despite the bad business, other businesses have beenying off staff. But I havenбпt fired a single person. Just their sries for the hundreds of employees is already arge sum of money, andбнб▒

    Lin Jiang quickly pretended to be poor. It was necessary to act poor, even though he had influential connections. Showing off wealth only invites hatred, so he had to cry poverty.

    б░Alright, alright, we all know who you are. Back in the Divine Kingdom days, I never saw you at a disadvantage.б▒

    б░Yes, yes, speaking of which, some friends from the Divine Kingdom also wanted toe and meet you. Will you see them?б▒

    б░No need, thatбпs all in the past now.б▒

    Zhou Huaiying shook his head. Those people from the Divine Kingdom who had high cultivation levels and could socialize together always stayed in touch, while those with lower cultivation levels only came to him for personal gain. It was meaningless.

    б░Sure, I will politely decline them.б▒

    б░I came to see you today, nothing else, just want to do a small business with you.б▒

    б░Please go ahead, I will do my best.б▒

    б░Donбпt worry, itбпs a normal business, no one will be at a loss. Just buying and selling some special products from North State.б▒

    б░Special products from North State?б▒

    б░Yes, itбпs a small business in private. Someone will contact youter.б▒

    б░Okay.б▒

    Lin Jiang said, not quite understanding. The tradingpany under Tianxuan Sect is thergest in Xiaotian City, and they import the most North State special products every year. What does Zhou Huaiying want to do with him?

    Could it be that he wants to seek some personal benefits?

    No matter what it is, as long as itбпs a normal business, Lin Jiang wonбпt refuse. Even if he earns a little less, it doesnбпt matter, or even if he doesnбпt earn at all. After all, he has to make a living on someone elseбпs turf.

    A few dayster, a person who imed to be Zhou Huaiyingбпs disciple came to negotiate with Lin Jiang. Thatбпs when Lin Jiang learned that Zhou Huaiying was acquiring the Human Demon of North State.

    б░Brother, I understand Snow Demon, Fox People, and Rabbit People and others. After all, if you ignore their monstrous features, all these Human Demon Tribes are beautiful. But Brother, what you want are all Human Demons.б▒

    Lin Jiang asked quietly. There are quite a few Human Demons in Xuanmiao City from North State, mainly Snow Demon and Fox People. In simple terms, they are pets, but there are also some with unusual tastes, like Small Shadiao.

    But this time, Zhou Huaiying included all the Human Demon Tribes. Whatбпs he nning?

    б░You donбпt need to ask too much, Mr. Xiao. My master has his reasons. The bottom line is that weбпll pay the price as agreed.б▒

    б░Okay, but we canбпt meet your requirements in terms of quantity.б▒

    б░Why? The price we offer is fair.б▒

    б░Itбпs not about the price. North State has been gued by a few evil forces, and the Human Demon Tribes have suffered heavy casualties. North Stateбпs mining resources still need these tribes to dig, so for the past two years, most of the prisoners of North State have been released back.б▒

    Lin Jiang said that he was not unwilling, but he didnбпt want to earn that money either. He wanted to leave some bottom line for himself, more or less.

    б░Boss Xiao, canбпt we make apromise? As you know, our business canбпt pass through Xiaotian City anymore. Except for you guys, if the money is not satisfactory, we can discuss it again.б▒

    б░Senior brother, itбпs not about the money. My status in Xiaotian City is not high either. I really canбпt make the decision.б▒

    б░Boss Xiao, this is disrespecting my master.б▒

    б░Senior brother, itбпs not fun to say that. In business, we need something to sell first. I donбпt have any goods on hand, so how can we do business?б▒

    б░Boss Xiao, youбпre so persuasive. I canбпt argue with you, but I canбпt exin to my master. If Iбпm not doing well, then some people wonбпt have a good time either.б▒

    б░Is that so? I donбпt believe it. I wonбпt talk about the people behind me. If Iбпm not doing well, some businesses in Xiaotian City wonбпt be doing well either.б▒

    Lin Jiang directly countered, if it was Zhou Huaiying saying this, he might be afraid, but just a mere golden core, Lin Jiang didnбпt take it seriously.

    The two businesses relied on their respective cities, which was apromise between the two powers. If it was ruined by just a golden core, it would only show the intentions between the two powers, but obviously, it was not the case now.

    б░Shopkeeper Xiao, really donбпt want to?б▒

    б░If I reduce it by four fifths as you said, I can do it. The rest, please find someone else. I have other things to do. Goodbye, Xiao.б▒

    Lin Jiang didnбпt feel like wasting time talking to him. He wasnбпt in a good moodtely and didnбпt want to bother anymore. Either cooperate or find someone else to work with.

    б░Dad, dad, where are you?б▒

    Small Shadiao arrived at Lin Jiangбпs mansion and went to the backyard, shouting loudly. He searched around but couldnбпt find Lin Jiang.

    б░Iбпm here.б▒

    Suddenly, Lin Jiangбпs voice came from behind Small Shadiao, scaring him.

    б░Oh my goodness, dad, how did you appear out of nowhere?б▒

    б░Howбпs your new magic power?б▒

    б░Not good, you sneaked into my bed in the middle of the night without me knowing. I want to learn it too.б▒

    б░What are you learning it for? To sneak into the fairyбпs bed in Zhongmiao Building?б▒

    б░Come on, is that the kind of person I am? Maybe, at most, when my future wife doesnбпt let me in, Iбпll sneak in quietly.б▒

    б░Here are six words for you: the sound of a flute from afar.б▒

    б░What does that mean, Dad? Are you going to y the flute? Why not learn to y the flute instead?б▒

    б░Enough! Letбпs talk about something important.б▒

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes fiercely. Why couldnбпt the kid catch the joke? Boring.

    б░Oh, I almost forgot to tell you, Lin Dongyan is looking for you.б▒

    б░Do you know something?б▒

    б░I havenбпt said anything, but Lin Dongyanбпs temper is just like yours now. Itбпs getting worse. Heбпs been driving away all the disciples around him. Except for teaching them regrly, he doesnбпt let anyone get close. Dad, you have to find him a woman. He must be so bad-tempered because he doesnбпt have a woman in his life. We have to take care of him, heбпs our lucky charm.б▒

    б░When did you be so chatty?б▒

    б░Is that so?б▒

    б░I still prefer you when you were little, you didnбпt talk much.б▒

    Lin Jiang rolled his eyes and ignored him, leaving the residence and heading towards Lin Dongyanбпs residence.

    Lin Dongyan has been in a bad moodtely, not only driving away the disciples around him, but also getting rid of all the servants in the house. Lin Jiang naturally knew what was going on.

    б░Uncleб▒

    б░Is the medicine ready?б▒

    б░It became a pill, Zhong Jingyunбпs medicine is difficult to divide ording to normal methods and is especially hard to make.б▒

    б░Have you tried it?б▒

    б░I have personally tried it, it works, but I donбпt know the side effects. Will you take it?б▒

    б░Of course, I definitely wonбпt take it.б▒

    Lin Jiang said, Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyunбпs many medicines didnбпt solve the side effects, thatбпs why they needed a Drug Tester like Su Chang. But most of those Drug Testers ended up dying. Heбпs a billionaire, why would he risk his life?

    б░Alright, you help me give the pill to the leader. The leader will naturally find someone to test it. When the side effects are solved, I will give it to you.б▒

    б░Okay, I will personally go.б▒

    б░Yes, itбпs a pity that Evil Pill King Zhong Jingyun died too early at Su Changбпs hands, otherwise with his intelligence, he would have definitely been able to improve these medicines.б▒

    б░Is Zhong Jingyun very powerful?б▒

    б░He wasnбпt just impressive, he was exceptionally impressive. In the past, the most impressive Alchemist in Yun State was Li Ruoxu, butpared to him, Li Ruoxu is not even worthy of shining his shoes.б▒

    б░Is that really so exaggerated?б▒

    б░Itбпs not an exaggeration. Zhong Jingyun is a pioneering figure. Although he creates Evil Pills, we cannot deny his intelligence and talent. If I were topare myself to himбн well, letбпs just say Iбпm not even worthy.б▒

    Lin Dongyan said, after seeing the things Zhong Jingyun left behind, he realized the gap between himself and a top genius. Zhong Jingyun cannot even be described as a genius, but as a prodigy.

    б░Letбпs not talk about that. Please continue.б▒

    Lin Jiang sighed. Lin Dongyan initially rejected this kind of medicine, but now it seems he is addicted to the pleasure brought by this technology. This is how a tech-savvy person thinks.

    However, Lin Jiang still feels ufortable. If the pills were given to him, he would take them, but feeling uneasy is also true. In this matter, he is just being awkward.

 Chapter 305:

    Chapter 305:

    Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You State, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang woke up from his seclusion and nced at the system, which showed that he was already four hundred and fifty years old. He took out a mirror and looked at his face.

    "Once I shave this beard, Iбпll be a handsome young man again."

    Lin Jiang looked at the handsome young man in the mirror and couldnбпt help but praise himself. He had been growing his beard for many years and looked like a man in his thirties.

    Thereбпs nothing to be done. Weбпre all old ghosts now. It wouldnбпt be right if I still had the face of a seventeen-year-old.

    He stood up, opened the door, and startled Small Shadiao outside. Small Shadiao seemed to be sleeping and suddenly opened his eyes.

    "Ah, Dad, youбпre finally making some noise."

    "Is this how you protect me, young man? Sleeping soundly?""No way, I just took a nap. I canбпt be fooled by any little movement."

    "Is that so?"

    "Yes"

    Small Shadiao spoke firmly, never needing to write down lies.

    Lin Jiang ignored him and went out to the store. As soon as he entered, he saw Wei Lin teasing one of the waitresses with a joke, making all the women burst intoughter.

    "Ahem"

    Lin Jiang coughed, making Wei Lin realize the power of a capitalist. The women scattered in fear.

    "Oh dear, the boss is here. Wow, impressive, already in theter stages of the golden core."

    Wei Lin turned around, seeing Lin Jiang and immediately put on a ttering smile. He also noticed that Lin Jiangбпs cultivation had reached theter stages of the golden core.

    "If you have nothing to do, go pick up some manure in the city. Donбпte here to flirt with female cultivators."

    "What are you saying? Itбпs them who flirt with me, alright?"

    "Just you?"

    "Yes, itбпs just me. I am the Soul Changing Ancestor. Am I not worthypared to their group of Qi Refining Building Foundation?"

    "You dare to seduce the women of the Lin family again, I will send you back to the North State to eat sand."

    Lin Jiang was furious. He wondered if Wei Lin didnбпt go to the Zhongmiao Building because the prices had gone up. Instead, he targeted the female cultivators of the business establishment.

    Not only that, this guy had high cultivation and thick-skinned. He took advantage of many of them, which made Lin Jiang angry. The helpers he worked so hard to recruit were stolen by him. He hardly ever showed up for work.

    Most importantly, he married one of the Lin family women. Although Lin Jiang didnбпt have much affection for those people, he didnбпt want them to fall into a trap.

    "Youбпre falsely using me, boss. Iбпm not ying with you anymore. Iбпm leaving."

    Wei Lin felt guilty, so he quickly left to find his Small Shadiao brothers to y with.

    Lin Jiang went to the ounting room and checked the books from his years of seclusion. After finding no issues, Lin Jiang took his share and nned to exchange it for high-grade spirit stones or rare materials.

    After finishing the business, Lin Jiang immediately went to see Zhou Huaiying. Last time, their private coboration was not pleasant. Lin Jiang didnбпt meet Zhou Huaiyingбпs requirements. Although Zhou Huaiying didnбпt retaliate or cause trouble, their rtionship became somewhat distant. Lin Jiang gave several gifts before their rtionship was repaired.

    "Well done, after so many years, your skills have finally improved."

    "I apologize for any inconvenience caused by my presence."

    Lin Jiang spoke, his progress in cultivation has always been slow, but it sped up when he arrived in Xuanmiao City because he had money there and could freely use medicine.

    "This visit is about those houses and shops, right?"

    "Yes, itбпs time to take action."

    Lin Jiang said, the rampage of the Blood Demon Ancestor in Xuanmiao City happened more than ten years ago. Time flies. During these ten years, Xuanmiao City has gained many golden core and Nascent Soul cultivators, but there has never been a shortage of low-level cultivators.

    Most of these people are outsiders with strong demands, which caused the housing prices in Xuanmiao City to rise again. Lin Jiang has been hoarding those houses for far too long, itбпs time to sell.

    Itбпs worth mentioning thatst time, Lin Jiang failed to reach a private agreement with Zhou Huaiying. So, Lin Jiang persuaded Zhou Huaiying to join the real estate spection, and Zhou Huaiying actually has more houses and shops than Lin Jiang.

    "Okay, Iбпll contact the other elders and weбпll all work together to release it."

    "You have to release it slowly, taking three to five years."

    Lin Jiang said. This kind of spective behavior always benefits the wealthy and harms the lower ss. The spection and bottom-feeding are mainly done by the high-ranking members of the Tianxuan Sect, and itбпs not just Zhou Huaiying alone.

    "Sure."

    "Also, thereбпs a small favor I need from you, senior. I hope you can keep my information hidden."

    "You have the Lin family to rely on, so why worry?"

    "Stay low-profile, silently make a fortune. The cultivation world always has strong individuals."

    Lin Jiang said. The environment in You State and North State is much more chaotic than the central region. There are also many hidden experts, just like the Blood Demon Ancestor and Su Chang in the past. Thatбпs why Lin Jiang also wants to keep a low profile.

    "Youбпre right, staying low-key and making a fortune. Alright, I understand this matter. When you go to trade, someone will help you conceal your identity."

    "Thank you, senior."

    Lin Jiang immediately raised his hand and said, in fact, he was already quite low-key. He bought arge number of houses and shops, with half of them under other peopleбпs names. But the remaining half was also very substantial. Just this part alone was enough to tempt Nascent Soul.

    бдбдбдбдбдбдбд

    "Uncle ancestor."

    Inside Lin Dongyanбпs residence, Lin Dongyan bowed to Lin Jiang.

    "Dongyan, itбпs been several years since west met."

    "During these past few years, the uncle ancestor has been in seclusion. Dongyan dare not disturb."

    "How are those elixirs?"

    Lin Jiang asked. Lin Dongyan has be quite famous in Xuanmiao City these years. He is the only folk sixth-grade Alchemist. The other sixth-grade Alchemists are mostly affiliated with various major forces and rarely refine elixirs for others because they canбпt even keep up with their own demand.

    And Lin Dongyan, chosen by Lin Jiang himself, was truly an extraordinary worker. He had a record of not going out for ten years, spending all that time refining potions. His incredible output of potions surpassed all other Alchemists of the sixth rank.

    "After some improvements, itбпs mostly problem-free now. Actually, Zhong Jingyun has almost finished his research."

    Lin Dongyan said that he had already tried to refine almost all of the potion recipes left by Zhong Jingyun, and he had made a great quantity of certain potions.

    Currently, all of these potions have ended up in the mouths of the thieves in Xiaotian City. Lin Batian used them as drug testers and confirmed that these potions were no different from regr ones.

    "Has everything been taken care of by the n leaderбпs side? If not, I dare not take action."

    "Everything has been taken care of. There were a total of thirty drug testers, and they were all eliminated."

    Lin Dongyan revealed that Lin Batian had been extremely ruthless this time. He first promoted these thirty drug testers, pretending that they were his most trusted subordinates. But once the drug tests were finished, he silenced them all. Lin Batian personally took care of everything, leaving no loose ends.

    "Since there are no problems, starting this year, provide me with the medicine. I donбпt ask for much, just one pill per year. Is that okay?"

    "No problem, but you have to provide the ingredients. I donбпt have any money."

    Lin Dongyan said that he actually earns just as much money as Lin Jiang does, but he is more selfless and gives most of his money to the Lin family.

    Lin Jiang is extremely impressed by this. Lin Dongyan has no hobbies besides alchemy, and he doesnбпt like women or men, drinking, or singing and dancing. He doesnбпt have any hobbies at all, and is a pure alchemy fanatic.

    "No problem."

    Lin Jiang nodded. The ingredients for these pills are expensive, but itбпs not a problem for him. He has been hiding in Xuanmiao City for these years and his wealth has grown. This expense is nothing.

    "Uncle, with your cultivation level, as long as you donбпt reach a bottleneck, one pill a year will be enough for you to achieve a perfect golden core in ten years."

    "That fast?"

    Lin Jiang raised an eyebrow, somewhat skeptical. Even for someone with a fast cultivation speed, it takes many years to advance even a small level. Itбпs already very fast for someone to advance one small level in ten years, and itбпs not umon for it to take three to five decades. Some people remain stuck in the early stage of the golden core for their whole lives.

    While theter stage of the golden core and achieving a perfect golden core may seem like just a small level, it often takes just as much time as advancing from the early stage to theter stage. At least Lin Jiang feels that he still has a long way to go before achieving a perfect golden core.

    "Uncle will know when the timees."

    Lin Dongyan stopped speaking. Those people were extremely domineering. Judging from the situation of the main medicine, if it was matched well, it could save the user decades of cultivation. With ten pills, breaking through to the perfect stage of the Golden Core realm would not be a problem.

    "Then Iбпll wait and see."

    Lin Jiang nodded and then left. He wanted to see how powerful this pill really was.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 306:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian City

    The appearance of Lin Die and Lin Ying made Lin Chaosheng and the others very happy. They all came to see them. Lin Die had been away for over ten years, while Lin Ying hadnбпt appeared for several decades.

    "Third Ancestor, Tenth Ancestor."

    "Third Ancestor."

    The two of them had great influence within the Lin family, because Lin Batian was not really a good steward. Most of the time, it was the two of them managing things. Lin Ying handled external matters, while Lin Die handled internal affairs. Lin Chaosheng and the others were mostly raised by Lin Die.

    "Good, good."

    Lin Die looked at Lin Chaosheng and the others. Several Nascent Soul cultivators from the Lin family had already appeared, not only Lin Chaosheng, but also others. Like Lin Cunjian and the others before them, they were seeking opportunities. Some died outside, while others advanced.

    "Third Ancestor, Tenth Ancestor, where have you been all these years?""Yes, Iбпve been searching for you for many years, but couldnбпt find you."

    "Me too."

    The younger generation of the Lin family asked inquisitively, expressing their concern for Lin Die and the others. Lin Batian had hidden their Soul Lamps, so they couldnбпt see them. They didnбпt even know if Lin Die and the others were alive or dead.

    Lin Die listened to these words and felt warmth in her heart. This was the family she protected.

    However, neither of them wanted to talk much about their past. They just reassured each other and then went to pay respects to Lin Batian. Lin Batian had received the news, but he didnбпte out like the younger generation. He sat in the main hall, waiting for them toe and pay respects.

    "Father."

    "Itбпs good youбпre back, itбпs good youбпre back."

    Lin Batian saw two women. He had almost a hundred children, two-thirds of whom had a Spiritual Root. But now, there are only two left. The rest of the Lin family descendants are also his children, but there is a big age difference and they are not close.

    Originally, his rtionship with the two women was good. When they were in Yun State Anhua City, the three of them supported the Lin family. But because of Xiao Lingyue, there was a crack in their father-daughter rtionship.

    "After many years of noting back, I was worried."

    "Itбпs okay, itбпs okay. Seeing youe back safely, I feel relieved."

    "Dad, where is stepmother?"

    Lin Ying spoke up and Lin Batianбп expression stiffened. Lin Ying had not gone away yet.

    "Um, itбпs Yueбпer, sheбн"

    "Let stepmothere out and meet us, I, Third Sister, am now the eldest daughter of the Lin family. Why, are you afraid to see people?"

    "Lin Ying, what do you want to do?"

    "Nothing much. Two years ago, I luckily broke through Soul Changing. I just want to learn from Auntie, to see if Soul Changing treats Soul Changing well and wonбпt bully others." ?

    "Stop it, she is your Auntie."

    "Yes, Auntie. Thatбпs why I want to learn from her, just topare our skills. Itбпs not a matter of life or death."

    "Youбн"

    Lin Batian was immediately in a state of panic. Lin Yingбпs resentment was even greater than before. How would he handle this?

    "Lin Ying, donбпt go too far."

    "Third Sister."

    "Dad, donбпt listen to her. We are just beginners in Soul Changing. How can we be Auntieбпs opponents? Dad, you can teach us the Lin familyбпs secret techniques."

    "Ah"

    Lin Batian is going crazy. He dares to teach them, but if they learn, they will beat Xiao Lingyue.

    "Father wouldnбпt not teach his own daughter, right?"

    "Umбн"

    "It seems that father has truly forgotten about his daughter after marrying a new wife. Forget it, I donбпt want to stay in this Lin family anymore."

    Lin Die is even more fierce than Lin Ying and has cornered Lin Batian.

    "Please, please, canбпt I teach them?"

    Lin Batian is feeling pressured. He doesnбпt care about anything else for now, he just wants to calm his daughter down first.

    "Well, thank you father. We just came back and weбпre tired, so weбпre going to rest."

    Lin Die nodded and then flew away with Lin Ying, leaving Lin Batian alone and dumbfounded.

    "What should we do?"

    Lin Batian eximed in his heart, thinking, "Who should I support in a fight? Both sides are important to me."

    "Someone, send a message to Xuanmiao City and ask Lin Wu toe back."

    After thinking for a long time, Lin Batian eximed. For now, I can only stabilize the two women. I should teach them the highest secret technique of the Lin family and let them study for several decades before finding a way to reconcile.

    "Auntie Three, Auntie Ten"

    Lin Jiang received the news and secretly rushed from Xuanmiao City to Xiaotian City. He hadnбпt been back for many years because he was always in seclusion. He would send the steward of the business every year to report, using the excuse of training new people. Lin Batian himself woulde to collect the alchemy pills.

    "Not bad, your cultivation has improved. You can try to break through to Nascent Soul stage."

    "Third Auntie and Tenth Auntie have advanced to Soul Changing, which is something to be celebrated."

    "You were brought back by my dad, so why are you trying to persuade us?"

    "Yes, I still need to persuade you."

    "Alright, letбпs hear your persuasive words."

    "Third Auntie, may I ask if you are nning to drive Xiao Lingyue away from the Lin family?"

    "Umбн"

    "Why canбпt we drive her away? We must drive her away."

    Lin Die hesitated, but Lin Ying confidently spoke up.

    "Tenth Auntie, are there many Soul Changing individuals in the Lin family? You have also worked hard to achieve Soul Changing. Do you know how difficult it is to cultivate a Soul Changing individual? Are you willing to let the Lin family waste such a powerful force? Donбпt forget, the Lin family still has deep resentments and hatred."

    "Meбн"

    "Lin Ying, Lin Wu is right."

    "So, since weбпre not nning to hurry, we should fight without breaking, right?"

    "Almost."

    "Since weбпre fighting without breaking, the head of the family has actually done very well. The Lin family power hasnбпt been handed over to her, and now theyбпre even building her a separate residence in the far north. To put it bluntly, the head of the family has raised a small one outside, hasnбпt she?"

    "Butбн"

    "But what, Tenth Auntie? I am a man, and I am speaking from a manбпs perspective. As a generationбпs hero, the head of the family surely has no shortage of women by her side, and there may be even more in the future.

    Donбпt be angry first, this is the truth. You have also traveled through many ces in the cultivation world, how many examples are there of a lifelong partnership between two people? And hereбпs another cruel fact for you, among the few examples of lifelong partnerships, men actually donбпt love their wives that much. They just donбпt have the ability to marry more."

    Lin Jiang said, under the monogamy system, capable men still have three or four wives and concubines. And this system is meant to protect the poor, why would the rich be restrained by this system? They y around.

    This kind of talk is very cruel, but it is indeed true and a result of human nature.

    Lin Ying fell silent, while Lin Die epted it quickly and said. Lin Ying, what Lin Wu said makes sense, it is indeed the nature of men.

    "I know, but as for me, forget it, I probably wonбпt get married in this lifetime."

    Lin Ying couldnбпt argue anymore, nor did she intend to.

    "Lin Wu, youбпve achieved your goal, you can go and boast to my dad now."

    "Third Auntie, Iбпm on your side."

    "Then why are you still saying these things?"

    "All this is for the sake of the Lin family, I donбпt want the Lin family to lose a Soul Changing in vain."

    "But I still feel angry in my heart, what should I do?"

    "When youбпre ready, go ahead. I have already prepared a book for Third Auntie, called боThe Art of Inner Strugglesбп."

    Lin Jiang cheerfully took out a jade scroll and handed it to Lin Die. He was truly on Lin Dieбпs side, giving her advice. A little internal conflict was insignificant as long as they controlled the situation and avoided destruction.

    "Crack!"

    However, before the jade scroll reached Lin Dieбпs hands, it shattered into pieces.

    "Dad, what are you up to?"

    Lin Die stood up and cursed. Besides Lin Batian, who else could it be? Not only did he eavesdrop, but he also dared to destroy the jade scroll?

    "Cough, sorry."

    Lin Batianбпs voice came through, but it didnбпt sound the same when it reached Lin Jiangбпs ears.

    "Kid, youбпre looking for trouble. Do you think our family isnбпt chaotic enough for you?"

    Lin Batian was really angry, he had spoken so nicely before, why did this happen?

    "Master, I am on Third Auntieбпs side, just not causing trouble is already good, okay?"

    Lin Jiang couldnбпt stand him, he couldnбпt even be bothered to whisper, directly saying it out loud.

    "You just wait, once I master the secret technique, I will turn your woman into a pigбпs head. Then I wonбпt be your child anymore."

    Lin Ying became even more furious, directly cursing. Lin Batian, who was in the distance, froze.

    "Count me in, youбпre way too much."

    Lin Die joined in as well. Itбпs one thing to eavesdrop, but daring to y this trick? Canбпt you beat father, let alone stepmother?

    Lin Jiang immediately felt a knife-like gaze, he believed that Lin Batianбпs heart had already cut him. He quickly shrunk his neck and hid behind Lin Die.

    Lin Batian didnбпt dare to say a word, he admitted his bad luck and left dejectedly.

    "Iбпm so angry, they donбпt respect us at all."

    Lin Ying was still very angry. If it were someone else eavesdropping on othersбп conversations, sheбпd be ready to draw her sword.

    "All men are no good."

    "Tenth Auntie, Iбпm also a man, donбпt involve me."

    "Youбпre the same."

    Well, Lin Jiang also felt that he was asking for trouble, why interrupt? Shut up.

    The three of them parted ways unhappily. Lin Jiang didnбпt dare to say anything more. In Xiaotian City, Lin Jiang met Lin Cunjian and the others. Lin Cunjian had left when he was still in Shenmu City, so he had been away for a longer time.

    In the beginning, there were over twenty of them who left, but only half of them came back. The rest either died or went missing.

    "Uncle, itбпs really tough outside, itбпs morefortable to stay with you."

    "Yes, uncle, even at the golden core level, people would kill for a few thousand or tens of thousands of spirit stones."

    "Especially for independent cultivators, if they donбпt have skills in pills, talismans, items, and formations, every spirit stone is obtained through fighting with swords. Itбпs too hard."

    "They canбпt afford medicinal pills. Many independent cultivators are lucky if they can consume a Xuan Yuan pill in a year."

    Lin Jiang invited a few people to drink. After having a few cups, they began toin about the hardships of their adventurous lives. They praised how kind Uncle Lin Jiang was, treating them like family, and howfortable it was to work for him.

    "If you want toe back, thene back."

    Lin Jiang waved his hand and said to his family members. Come back and work for me. Weбпre not afraid of having more people. We have plenty of positions for screwing screws.

 Chapter 307:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    You State, Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang didnбпt stay in North State for long, he had a few meals with the people from the Lin family and then left. Small Shadiao wanted to go to the Snow Demon tribe, but Lin Jiang firmly refused. On the surface, the reason was that he was afraid Small Shadiao would harm his sisters-inw, but the real reason was that Lin Jiang was afraid of danger and needed Small Shadiaoбпs protection on the way.

    Along with Lin Jiang, there were over twenty people from the Lin family who came back. There were old employees like Lin Cunjian, as well as some new ones. Gradually, the Lin family had more than two hundred people in Lin Jiangбпs business, and about eighty percent of the entire business belonged to the Lin family.

    This was also a mutual benefit and supervision between Lin Jiang and the Lin family. After all, every year Lin Jiangбпs business handled at least four to five billion in transactions. No one could afford not to be cautious.

    Back in Xuanmiao City, Lin Jiang arranged jobs for Lin Cunjian and the others. Worth mentioning is that Lin Jiang had bought a lot of houses earlier, and to avoid wasting them, he let the employees live in them for free. Now it was time to take them back.

    After living there for over ten years, collecting the houses would surely have small issues. Some might feel resentful or dissatisfied, while others might want to im them for themselves. Therefore, Lin Jiangбпs first task for Lin Cunjian and the others was to reim the houses, and he specifically told them that it was giving face for the Lin family to do it themselves. Anyone who didnбпt show respect would have to face the consequences with Lin Jiang.

    Lin Jiang didnбпt need to worry about such trivial matters. He found Lin Dongyan and obtained a pill, then went into seclusion.In the blink of an eye, two months had passed and Lin Jiang woke up from seclusion, taking a long breath.

    "No wonder Lin Batian was so cautious about the pill. Itбпs truly a great temptation and a challenge to human nature."

    Lin Jiang murmured to himself, after two months of seclusion, surpassing the hardship he had endured in his previous ten years of cultivation. Moreover, during those ten years, he had also been addicted to drugs. Now, he had advanced even further in theter stage of the golden core.

    This kind of cultivation speed was too fast. Even with Lin Jiangбпs talent, it would only take seven to eight years to reach the peak of the golden core, saving decades of cultivation time, as long as there were enough elixirs.

    For cultivators, this kind of thing was bigger than any temptation. Not many people dared to guarantee that they could resist it. This was human nature, which could not withstand tests and challenges.

    "Uncle, how do you feel?"

    Coming to Lin Dongyanбпs house once again, Lin Dongyan asked.

    "Wonderful, but terrifying."

    "Yes, cultivation growth and increased strength are like poison to cultivators. Itбпs an addictive poison. Itбпs wonderful, but also very frightening."

    "You need to advise the head of the family. Itбпs best not to spread this kind of elixir, even to the descendants of the Lin family. Donбпt give it to too many people, and donбпt even tell them what kind of elixir it is. Just let them consume it, and watch them assimte it."

    "I will. The Lin family is notcking people who desire power."

    "Not just a possibility, but a definite must. Iбпll be honest with you. If the Lin familyбпs ship sinks one day, I wonбпt go down with them."

    Lin Jiang said seriously. The Lin family has taken care of him, but heбпs repaid them in his own way. However, he wonбпt be burying himself with the Lin family.

    "Uncle, thereбпs no need to be like this. I havenбпt seen a cultivator who hasnбпt killed someone. Killing is killing, no difference."

    "Was I talking about this matter?"

    "Alright, I understand."

    Lin Dongyan nodded. Originally, he wanted to persuade further, but now he stayed quiet, no longer necessary to persuade.

    Lin Jiang stopped talking and left after a casual chat.

    In the following days, Lin Jiang started to sell his properties. Since he wanted to manipte house prices together with Zhou Huaiying and others, the selling process wasnбпt fast. They discussed it and typically sold one or two properties per month.

    However, this timeбпs spective investment still made Lin Jiang arge profit. These properties in the East City area were worth millions of spirit stones, while Lin Jiang had previously acquired them for a third or even lower price.

    In other words, if Lin Jiang sells a house, he can make millions of dors in profit, even more for those luxury mansions, the huge profits are unimaginable.

    "Boss, if you take away the house, what will myrge family do? I already have twelve wives and concubines."

    Wei Lin also walked up with a worried face. Lin Jiang took back his big mansion, so where will arge family like theirs live? They canбпt have twelve wives and concubines sharing one room, his back canбпt take it.

    "Donбпt act innocent, do you think I donбпt know about the things you did? You secretly bought five or six houses, where will you live?"

    "Ah, you knew about that?"

    "The people from the Xuanmiao City management office collect money from me every month, what do you think?"

    Lin Jiang said, not only did he know that Wei Lin followed him to secretly invest in real estate, but he also knew that Wei Lin set up a business outside, imitating what he was doing. Lin Jiang just never exposed him.

    Speaking of which, Taixu Sect is also in a miserable state. Lin Batian is not trustworthy, he already sold out the Taixu Sectбпs techniques and secrets, not only to the Five Elements Sect but also some ended up in Lin Jiangбпs hands.

    So deep down, Lin Jiang sympathizes with Taixu Sect. Whatever small tricks Wei Lin does doesnбпt affect his interests, so Lin Jiang naturally doesnбпt care.

    "Oh, I should have known better than to save this money. I canбпt trick you any further."

    "Does it feel good to take advantage of me?"

    "You donбпt understand the pleasure of taking advantage. Itбпs not about how much benefit you gain, but about the process. Just like with my wives, I didnбпt spend any money, you know."

    "Unfaithful man."

    "Well, Iбпll take that as apliment."

    Wei Lin shamelessly, heбпs not afraid of others calling him an unfaithful man, others havenбпt even had the chance to be unfaithful yet.

    "I admit defeat to you, now get lost!"

    "I wonбпt leave, I wonбпt leave. Hey, tell me about any opportunistic things going on. Iбпm poor and have a big family to support."

    "Are you going to the Xuanmiao Tower to sell yourself?"

    "If you go, I will go too. Whoбпs afraid of who?"

    "My golden core is not valuable, but your Soul Changing is valuable. I believe many people would pay a high price to experience the freshness of Soul Changing."

    "Makes sense, when Iбпm so broke that I canбпt even afford a pot to cook, then Iбпll go."

    Wei Lin nodded, not feeling angry at all. When ites to having thick skin, heбпs never been afraid of anyone.

    "Wow, my level of shamelessness canбпt evenpare to yours after a ten thousand years of practice."

    "Itбпs natural, thereбпs no way around it, just like my beauty."

    "Can you leave on your own?"

    "No, really, Iбпm poor."

    Wei Lin persisted relentlessly. He really didnбпt want to leave, and he really was poor too. Despite having made quite a bit of money imitating Lin Jiang, he had to support the remaining members of the Taixu Sect. Currently, the Taixu Sect has at least a few thousand people left, unlike Lin Jiang, who only has himself and a bird.

    "Unscrupulous tactics is not the right path. Itбпs all about relying on opportunities. If the opportunity doesnбпte, no matter how skilled you are, itбпs useless. Donбпt think you can get rich overnight."

    "Boss, you shouldnбпt bully people. My big brother told me that youбпre a master at unscrupulous tactics and have made a lot of money from it."

    "Small Shadiao doesnбпt understand a thing. If unscrupulous tactics were so easy, why would I bother running a business honestly to make money?"

    Lin Jiang said seriously, he did indeed make a lot of money through unscrupulous tactics, but he never considered it as the right path.

    "Boss, can you teach me a few moves? What if they actually work?"

    "You really want to do this?"

    "Seriously, look at my face, Iбпm very serious."

    "Alright, Iбпll say it once."

    "Go ahead, go ahead, Iбпll remember it with the Image Saving Talisman."

    "You find a sect, cooperate with them, and then im a piece ofnd in their city. Build some houses and enclose them. Then, announce to the public that those who buy these houses can be disciples of the sect. The houses will be divided into three categories: the cheaper ones are for outer disciples, the more expensive ones are for inner disciples. If itбпs very expensive, they can be introduced to the elder of the sect as a personal disciple.

    The price at which the houses can be sold depends on the sect you find to cooperate with. If you find a good sect, even a rundown straw hut can be sold for millions of spirit stones. As for how the money will be divided, itбпs something you need to negotiate with the sect. If this n goes well, it can be replicated in different ces. In less than a hundred years, I guarantee youбпll be incredibly wealthy."

    Lin Jiang said, and Wei Lin next to him waspletely dumbfounded. Could there really be such a scheme? Isnбпt this a scam?

    After finishing his words, Lin Jiang ignored him and walked away. He knew about countless schemes to deceive people. It all depends on how deceitful your heart is. If your heart is deceitful enough, you can make certain groups empty their six storage bags and carry a debt for a lifetime.

 Chapter 308:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    North State, Xiaotian City

    Lin Batian, Tian Li, and Wei Dao were discussing their ns. Every few years, they would have these discussions, as they were all developing in different ces. They needed to share information to understand each otherбпs overall strength.

    Of course, nobody would reveal their true capabilities. They would only give a rough idea, as everyone knew each other well enough.

    The remnants of the Four Great Sects are now led by Tian Li and Wei Dao. After all, Tiandao Gate and Tiandao Pavilion only have Soul Changing left, which is too weak. The weak ones have no say.

    "Tian, Wei, we have been living peacefully in North State for many years. Whether itбпs the Four Sects or my Lin family, the younger generation has be less focused on revenge and has even epted our current lives. We must go to war with Qing State."

    Lin Batian told the two. After decades of development, both sides have seen the rise of a new generation of power. Our forces have also grown stronger. Lin Batian felt that the opportunity to take action had finally arrived.

    "Brother Lin, canбпt we wait a little longer? Our power is still weak."

    "We canбпt wait any longer. We only control a small portion of thend, while Qing State is muchrger and their development speed is ten or a hundred times faster than ours. The longer we wait, the more we lose. We have to keep fighting and wear down Qing State."Lin Batian said. They only control a small number of people in North State. How many people are there in North State? Less than a million. But Qing State, even just one city has so many people.

    In terms of development, they were at a great disadvantage. Over the past few decades, Qing Stateбпs development has far surpassed theirs. Lin Batian had already learned this through insiders.

    "Tian, Brother Lin is right. We canбпt dy any longer. If we dy, the next generation of disciples will forget their hatred. Do we also want to forget?"

    Wei Dao spoke immediately. The people of their generation had experienced the brutalities of the Qing State, harboring an ancient and deep resentment. But what about the next generation? They hadnбпt gone through these same experiences, even with constant teachings. The impact of such emotions couldnбпtpare to personally witnessing the horrors firsthand. The voices advocating for forgiveness and letting go of revenge were growing louder, and he couldnбпt bear it any longer.

    "Wei, of course I wonбпt forget. How could I forget the vengeance of our destroyed household?"

    "Can your future generations forget?"

    "No, they cannot forget."

    "Since they cannot forget, why not agree toe to North State, just to take a temporary break, instead of hiding here for a lifetime?"

    "Brother Wei, thereбпs no need for forceful persuasion. I have agreed."

    "Very well, since you have both agreed, I wonбпt say much. It may take as short as half a month or as long as a year for us tounch an attack on Qing State. Be prepared, gather the necessary resources, and assemble the troops."

    "Brother Lin, what about North State?"

    "Leave it be. Thatбпs why you all must be prepared. All personnel involved in the battle must personally set up restrictions to prevent leaking of information."

    Lin Batian said that in the whole cultivation world, North State was the easiest for them to take over. Other ces are not as easy, but this ce can bring them many benefits. Lin Batian naturally wouldnбпt easily give up.

    "Okay, understood."

    Wei Dao nodded his head, relieved. The Taixu Sect has recruited many new disciples over the years, and there have also been many disciples who have had children. These people still need a stable environment to develop, and he can take this opportunity to have his son stay. He only has one son and doesnбпt want him to take unnecessary risks.

    Xuanmiao City

    Lin Jiang went to the purchasing department of the business, and a group of people immediately stopped their work and greeted Lin Jiang.

    "Give me an exnation, what is the reason for the extra contents on the purchase order?"

    Lin Jiang said with a gloomy face. Lin Jiang has adopted some modern corporate structures in the business, dividing it into departments such as production, purchasing, design, and administration, each with its own responsibilities.

    Although less than 20% of the employees are hired externally, Lin Jiang can control the entire business. However, he received news that the purchasing department had made changes to the purchase list, and he was unaware of it.

    "Uncle, let me exin."

    "I told you, in the business, call me by my job title."

    "Yes, sir."

    "Come over here."

    Lin Jiang called the steward to the office.

    "Sir, the situation is like this, the Lin family and the four major sects are preparing to take action against Qing State. They are currently purchasing supplies, but the head of the family doesnбпt want the North Stateбпs affairs to be exposed, so they decided to secretly purchase through thepanyбпs channels, which led to a change in the purchase order."

    "Iбпm not talking about this matter, but why I didnбпt know about it."

    "Wellбн"

    "Do you know that what youбпre doing is called abuse of power? Thepany is mine, not the Lin familyбпs. Lin Batian should have told you this already."

    "Iбпm sorry, sir, it was my mistake. I thoughtбн"

    "You thought what?"

    Lin Jiang stared at him with a cold and stern expression, making him too afraid to meet Lin Jiangбпs gaze.

    "Tidy up and hand over your duties within three days, thene back to Xiaotian City."

    "Ah, Uncle, thisбн"

    "Whatбпs this? What do you want?"

    Lin Jiang angrily rebuked, stating that abusing power was the most intolerable of all mistakes. Lin Jiang needed to maintain absolute control over the business, and if he wasnбпt a member of the Lin family, he would have been dead by now.

    Lin Jiang walked out of the room expressionlessly, then called for Lin Cunjian. In front of everyone, he dered. From now on, Lin Cunjian will be your new steward, in charge of all the affairs in the purchasing department.

    After giving the orders, Lin Jiang took Lin Cunjian aside privately and said. Lin Cunjian, I want you to understand one thing. The Lin family belongs to the Lin family, and the business is separate. Even if they have deep connections, they are still two separate entities. Do you understand what I mean?

    "Yes, Uncle, I understand. I know what to do, and I wonбпt make that mistake."

    Let me make this clear. Firstly, business is business. The Lin family can use the businessбпs channels to purchase supplies, and I can even not profit from the Lin family. But the books must be ounted for, and I canбпt suffer any losses.

    The second point is that I need to know everything, since this is my business. I must be aware of the process. Also, how to hide is your responsibility. The head of the family doesnбпt want North State to find out since they are using my business channel.

    "Yes, Uncle"

    Lin Cunjian didnбпt hesitate and thought it was unfair to keep it from Lin Jiang. Many people dislike such decisions made without consulting others.

    "Since you understand, I wonбпt say much. Take care of it yourself."

    "Uncle, donбпt worry. I wonбпt make the same mistake twice."

    "Go ahead, go and busy yourself."

    Lin Jiang said, and Lin Cunjian respectfully left.

    After Lin Cunjian left, Lin Jiang pondered for a long time, then sent someone to deliver a message to Zhou Huaiying, to expedite the process of selling the property business, even if it meant earning a little less.

    Lin Jiang had made up his mind to cut ties with the Lin family. He could understand and support the Lin familyбпs obsession with revenge in the past, considering the deep grudges involved. But Lin Batian became more and more paranoid, even producing people Dan. Lin Jiang began to feel it was very dangerous.

    Once this matter is exposed, the Lin family will be the enemy of everyone in the cultivation world. After all, the human pill is made from cultivators as the main ingredient. The higher the cultivation level, the better the effect. Itбпs like pulling high-level cultivators into a world of Dark Forest where everyone is in danger. For prestigious sects, this kind of thing must be eliminated, and the Lin family will have nowhere to escape.

    Lin Jiang cannot be buried with the Lin family. This is Lin Jiangбпs selfishness and nature. Therefore, Lin Jiang needs to n an escape route in advance to avoid sinking with the Lin family.

    Lin Cunjian quickly took over the procurement department. He had been working for Lin Jiang in Shenmu City for many years, so he had some experience. Lin Cunjian dare not hide things from Lin Jiang anymore. He seeks Lin Jiangбпs opinion before everyrge-scale procurement, which also allows Lin Jiang to feel at ease.

    Thepanyбпsrge-scale procurement in Xuanmiao City didnбпt encounter much trouble. Lin Jiangбпspany is also well-known in Xuanmiao City with an annual turnover of at least one billion spirit stones. The scale is continuously growing, and these changes are within the normal range.

    "Fourth-order Demon Core, Beast Spirit Pill, fourth-order monster flesh. Dad, is this ourst meal?"

    Half a monthter, Small Shadiao looked at the pile of things in front of him and started to panic. When have capitalists ever been kind-hearted? Could this be hisst meal?

    "What are you thinking? This is enough for you to eat a hundred and eighty meals."

    "No, you suddenly started treating me so well. Iбпm a little scared."

    Small Shadiao quickly said. If Lin Jiang tricked him a few times, he could handle it, thatбпs normal. But being treated nicely, heбпs afraid.

    "Are you looking for a fight, kid? I raised you from a baby, with all the diaper changes and feeding. Whatбпs wrong with me being a bit nice to you?"

    "Is that so?"

    "Eat or donбпt eat, if you donбпt eat, Iбпll take it away."

    "Eat, eat, eat! But hey, dad, can you save some for my wife?"

    "Your wife canбпt eat this, Iбпll make separate arrangements. Anyway, you need to be stronger, no cking off."

    Lin Jiang said. Small Shadiao isnбпt very capable. After all these years, heбпs still at the fourth stage of the beginner level. Now, Iбпm going to help him be stronger, so he can escape.

    Small Shadiaoбпs wife, Snow Demon, was originally invisible. But because she interacted with humans, she took on a human form. Her true strength, however, is actually at the third stage. The things Lin Jiang gives to Small Shadiao, she canбпt consume.

    "Dad, from now on, youбпre my real dad."

    "Where are you going?"

    "Ask my daughter-inw toe over and kowtow to you, showing respect."

    "Go back."

    Lin Jiang almostughed until he cried, who on earth asked you to kowtow? Besides, itбпs only proper for you to kowtow, you should kowtow regrly. If you had kowtowed earlier, I would have saved you from trouble twice."

    "Dad, is there anything else? Speak."

    "Next month, I have to go into seclusion, probably for about three months. You can take your wife back to her parentsбп home. Everything has been arranged in Xiaotian City. We will treat your wifeбпs family well. Once the three months are over, you cane back, and your wife will stay at home."

    "Ah, Dad, are you trying to separate us? Just because you are single, you shouldnбпt separate us."

    "Shut up! Who said I want to separate you? I need to practice a secret technique and go to an extremely cold ce. Let your wife stay there before we go. Your family wonбпt even listen to you without your wife, right?"

    "Of course not! If you donбпt listen, I will give you a good scolding."

    Small Shadiao proudly said, it has a certain status, and its words are final.

 Chapter 309:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    Qing State

    The remaining members of the four major sects, which had been quiet for decades, mobilized once again. This time, their focus was on assassinations. In no time, Qing State was filled with countless assassins.

    These assassins were not very powerful, mainly at the Building Foundation and Golden Core levels. They operated far away from the main gates and major cities of the four major families. They chose weak spots within these families to assassinate promising young members and important members.

    In less than three months, hundreds of members from the four major families were killed. The families became furious and dispatched elite troops to counterattack. The two sides engaged in fierce battles.

    However, this was just the beginning. With Lin Batian leading a group of high-level cultivators, theyunched a surprise attack on a crucial location owned by the Yu family. The intensity of the war immediately escted, and the Qing State once again became consumed by mes of war.

    Yun State, Five Elements Sect

    Lin Jiang has returned. Zhang Wanjing ordered his return, and the order was passed to Zhang Shuhua through the sect. Lin family handed it over to Lin Jiang. Zhang Shuhua had been with the Lin family for these past years.But instead of being in North State, the Lin family is hidden in other ces. They sent Zhang Shuhua away to another ce, so the Five Elements Sect cannot be sure about the news regarding the Lin family. Thatбпs why they need Lin Jiang toe back and report.

    "The above is my spection about the strength of the Lin family. What I know is only a part of it, so I canбпt guarantee the uracy of the data. I hope that all the Martial Uncles will consider it carefully."

    When Lin Jiang returned, Zhang Wanjing asked him to provide information about the Lin familyбпs strength. Lin Jiang didnбпt refuse, but he rarely gets involved in matters rted to Xiaotian City. So, based on the Lin familyбпs business, he could only specte about their strength and exaggerate it a little.

    Exaggerating their strength a little was to help the Lin family. As an independent force, the Five Elements Sect needs to assess the Lin familyбпs strength if they want to form an alliance. The stronger the Lin family, the stronger the willingness to form an alliance. Cooperation between forces is more practical than relying on individuals.

    Several Nascent Soul Elders nced at each other, all somewhat astonished. ording to Lin Jiangбпs testimony, the Lin family currently has around forty people at the golden core stage, five at the Nascent Soul stage, three at the Soul Changing stage, and one at the Void Achieving stage.

    With this level of power, even after excluding Lin Batian, the Void Achieving cultivator, the Lin family is only slightly weaker than the Five Elements Sect. It can be said that they are extremely strong. However, the Lin family is just a family that has been developing for less than six hundred years. This is a terrifying thing.

    "Xiao Yi, what do you think the chances are of a decisive battle between the Lin family and Qing State this time?"

    "Not possible."

    "Not even a little possibility?"

    No, Lin Batian is not a match for Tao Achieving, so they canбпt have a decisive battle with Qing State. Lin Batian may seem careless sometimes, but he actually carefully considers his actions and ns based on his abilities.

    Of course, if he has any trump cards, I canбпt say for sure. After all, Iбпm just a golden core with limited perspective.

    Lin Jiang said. Lin Batian has been practicing without ceasing, mastering the secret techniques of the four major families. However, Lin Jiang knows that Lin Batian hasnбпt reached the point where he can defeat Tao Achieving. If he had the strength, Lin Batian would have acted long ago.

    But thereбпs a high possibility that Lin Batian will wipe out the four major families because he possesses medicinal pills that greatly enhance his cultivation speed.

    "Alright, understood. You may rest now."

    "Yes, Master."

    Lin Jiang saluted and left the grand hall, heading straight to the Internal Affairs Hall.

    Leaving other matters aside, he deserves to receive his sry for these past decades. The business he once built is now in Zhang Wanjingбпs hands, and he has no more stake in it. But at least he can still receive his sry.

    The people at the Internal Affairs Hall have changed since Lin Jiang returned many decades ago. There were still a few familiar faces during hisst visit, but now there are hardly any left.

    The entire Five Elements Sect, Lin Jiang couldnбпt find many familiar faces anymore. Apart from the Zhang Wanjing father and son, there may be only one person left, Jiang Shu. But Lin Jiang didnбпt go to find him, as he lost interest in meeting old friends.

    After receiving his sry, Lin Jiang went to Zhang Wanjingбпs cave. Zhang Shuhuaбпs wife has already passed away, she only had a Foundation Period cultivation. Zhang Wenchen and his family lived together with Zhang Wanjing, while Zhang Wenxin has already married and is now of grandmother age.

    "Qingqing, quickly call him Uncle Great-Uncle."

    Zhang Wenchen brought along a child who is two or three years old, and asked the child to call someone. The child timidly called out.

    "Is this your grandson?"

    "The second grandson, the eldest one is already eight years old."

    "Seeing him, it reminds me of when you were this little too. I even tricked you into calling me dad."

    "Really? So, did my dad scold me?"

    "No, your dad was very happy."

    Lin Jiangughed loudly and said that Zhang Shuhua wanted Zhang Wenchen to be his godson, but Lin Jiang didnбпt want to.

    "My uncle and my father have a close rtionship, which is normal. Unfortunately, Iбпm already old, but my uncle is still young and vibrant."

    "Your father looks young too."

    "Yes, thatбпs the world of cultivators."

    Zhang Wenchen said that he had reached the Building foundation stage in his cultivation, and he had attempted to break through to the golden core stage but failed. Now he has given up and reserved his resources for the next generation.

    In the cultivation world, there is no rule that each generation has to be stronger than the previous one. If the next generationбпs talent is not up to par, the most important task is to reproduce and rely on the umtion of each generation until a peerless genius is born.

    "You shouldnбпt give up on cultivation. Keep trying multiple times."

    "I donбпt want to make things difficult for my grandfather. My talent is not goodpared to those geniuses. Now that my grandfather has many descendants, I want to reserve the resources for someone more important."

    "Your father will be very sad then."

    "Itбпs inevitable to feel sad, as itбпs part of lifeбпs ups and downs. But overall, Iбпve lived a fulfilling life and never had to worry about resources for cultivation. Iбпve had a smooth journey so far. Perhaps thatбпs why I failed to reach the golden core stage. Everything happens as itбпs meant to be, and I believe my father would understand."

    "You have a great mindset."

    "Of course, my dear wife is still with me, my son is filial, and I have my grandchildren by my side. I no longer worry about cultivation or basic necessities. I spend my days happily ying with my grandchildren and tending to my garden. There is no greater happiness in life."

    Zhang Wenchen said, content with his current life иC peaceful, harmonious, and filled with joy. Most importantly, his family was by his side.

    Lin Jiang wished him well, acknowledging that for people in the cultivation world, being able to enjoy theirter years is a great blessing. Just look at how many cultivators in the outside world struggle and fail to live a long life.

    As Zhang Wanjing returned, Zhang Wenchen prepared a few dishes and poured a jug of wine, providing a quiet space for the two of them.

    "Decades have passed in the blink of an eye, and still no letter from you."

    "Itбпs not convenient for me to interfere with the Lin family."

    "Blood ties are indeed stronger than the bond between master and disciple."

    "Is this considered the master being jealous?"

    "Haha, if you say so, then let it be."

    Zhang Wanjingughed heartily, his young disciple still mischievous but familiar.

    Over a hundred years had passed, and Zhang Wanjing, at this level, was slowly withering and transcending. His acquaintances were bing fewer, and life was growing lonelier.

    "I have something to ask of the master this time Iбпve returned."

    "Go ahead."

    "I want to take away a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit."

    "Your cultivation hasnбпt reached theplete stage of golden core. Are you in such a hurry?"

    "Prepare ahead of time, itбпsing soon."

    Lin Jiang said, but Zhang Wanjing remained silent. Lin Jiang had been away for so long that the people around him had almost forgotten who he was. The rtionship between master and disciple also faded over the hundred years of separation.

    Many talented disciples emerged from the Five Elements Sect, and countless people were eyeing the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Zhang Wanjing started to weigh his options in his mind.

    "I have a share of the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit, Master."

    "I know."

    "Then you should give it to me, itбпs what I deserve."

    "I remember."

    "Well, then give it to me!"

    Of course, Lin Jiang said this in his mind, too afraid to say it out loud.

    "The Purple Origin Taoist Fruit is very useful to me. The Five Elements Sectбпs Nascent Soul is very old. The sect needs fresh blood, and resources should be given to the most talented disciples."

    "The disciple praised himself and said that apart from cultivation talent, the disciple is not weaker than anyone."

    "I also know this."

    "The disciplecks this opportunity. The discipleбпs lifespan is not long, and there is only one chance to impact the Nascent Soul. I donбпt want to miss this opportunity. Master should know the discipleбпs character, even if itбпs thest moment, I wonбпt give up."

    "Give me some time to consider."

    "No, Master must give me an answer before this meal is finished. I am a person who distinguishes between gratitude and grudges. I wonбпt take what belongs to others, and I wonбпt give away things for free unless I am willing to."

    Lin Jiang pushed back directly. If Zhang Wanjing calmed down and weighed the pros and cons, he would definitely not give it. Lin Jiang believed in this.

    Zhang Wanjing frowned, looked up at Lin Jiang, and reevaluated this disciple. It had been too long since theyst met, and Zhang Wanjing had started to forget the discipleбпs personality.

    Lin Jiang raised his head, locked eyes with Zhang Wanjing, and the air froze in that moment.

    Numerous memories shed through Zhang Wanjingбпs mind- Medicine City, Internal Affairs Hall, Outer Sect, Wilderness. Various memories evoked a mix of emotions for Zhang Wanjing.

 Chapter 310:

    Our Discord Server: .gg/PazjBDkTmW

    The State of Yun, The Sect of the Five Elements

    Inside the cave of Zhang Wanjing, Lin Jiang personally picked a mature Purple Origin Taoist Fruit. Lin Jiang nned to wait for another mature one beforeing back, but now he doesnбпt want to wait anymore.

    "Dad, there are still small ones there. Letбпs pick a few more and bring them back."

    Small Shadiao encouraged from the side, saying that there are more than just one or two Purple Origin Taoist Fruits. There are now twenty or thirty of them, all transnted from previously mature ones. The Five Elements Sect has skilled Spiritual Farmers, so this is not difficult to achieve.

    "Why do we need that thing? Itбпs barely 200 years old as medicine, who knows how long itбпll take to mature."

    Lin Jiang said that it takes at least a thousand years from the seed germination of a Purple Origin Taoist Fruit to the seedling stage, then to the mature fruit, and it takes hundreds of years for the tree to bear fruit again. These Purple Origin Taoist Fruits are still quite tender and not very useful.

    "They look so fresh and green, letбпs take them home to cook."

    "Are you serious?""Canбпt we eat it?"

    "We can, but this thing is only good for stir-frying bird wings."

    "Haha, I was just joking, Master. Please donбпt pick it. I was really just joking."

    Small Shadiao panicked, the Master was really going to pick it, his bird wings wonбпt survive.

    "Itбпs almost ready."

    Zhang Wanjingбпs voice came, he didnбпt show up in person, out of sight, out of mind. He promised to give Purple Origin Taoist Fruit to Lin Jiang. It was a big decision for him. These seedlings were also carefully nted by the sect. It took hundreds of transnts to make them survive this little. Donбпt always take advantage of the sect.

    "Thank you, Master."

    Lin Jiang felt a bit embarrassed, the old man was staring at him. He only picked two and put them in a jade box. They would still survive when ntedter.

    "If thereбпs nothing else, go back early and donбпt forget what I told you."

    "Yes, Master."

    Lin Jiang bowed and left. Zhang Wanjing, being cunning and sly, talked to Lin Jiang about the Lin family, inferring from Lin Jiangбпs tone, expression, and details of their conversation that there was a sense of estrangement between Lin Jiang and the Lin family. Zhang Wanjing immediately expressed that the Five Elements Sect will forever be the Lin familyбпs home.

    Later, he told Lin Jiang that he had no ill intentions towards the Lin family. He just wanted to know their approximate strength in order to cooperate better. In other words, he wanted Lin Jiang to be an insider and provide urate information. Lin Jiang agreed to everything, but in truth, he was just being perfunctory; otherwise, it would not be easy to obtain the Purple Origin Taoist Fruit.

    In Yun State, in the city of Anhua.

    Wen Xing had been ruling over Anhua City for several decades now. Anhua City seemed to have be ustomed to Wen Xingбпs authority. As for the absurd things he did in the past, not many people cared. After all, in the cultivation world, having multiple spouses was quite normal. Besides, over the years, Wen Xing seemed to have awakened from matters of love and focused on alchemy and city management. He had be a qualified City Lord.

    "Greetings, City Lord Wen."

    Lin Jiang bowed to Wen Xing. This was the first proper exchange between the two since they arrived in Anhua City. Although they had crossed paths a few times, they didnбпt have much involvement with each other.

    "How shall I address you? Are you a member of the Lin family or Zhang Wanjingбпs disciple Xiao Yi from the Five Elements Sect?"

    "Any will do, but today I am here on behalf of the Lin family."

    "Understood, please speak."

    "This is a small token of appreciation from the head of my family."

    Lin Jiang took out a bag and ced it in front of Wen Xing.

    During this visit to Yun State, Lin Jiang had another task, which was to convey some intentions to Lin Batian, although Lin Jiang was unaware of when Lin Batian had been in contact with Wen Xing.

    "Thank you, Lin Family Leader, is there anything else to say?"

    "There is no verbal message. Everything that needs to be said is within this jade scroll."

    Then, Lin Jiang took out another jade scroll and handed it to Wen Xing, who received it and scanned it with his consciousness.

    "I understand. Please reassure your family head that I will do as he says."

    "Yes, Iбпve delivered the message, goodbye."

    "No rush, the guest is wee. Please have a meal before leaving."

    "Umбн"

    "I surely wouldnбпt dare to harm you, Iбпm afraid it might be me who gets in trouble."

    Wen Xing said, with his identities as a member of the Lin family and a disciple of Zhang Wanjing, being just a small Nascent Soul, how could he dare to offend?

    "Then Iбпll trouble you."

    Lin Jiang nodded, deciding to stay for a meal, just to see what Wen Xing was up to.

    That night, Wen Xing hosted a luxurious banquet for Lin Jiang, with high-ranking officials from Anhua City as thepany. There were performances of singing and dancing, and two beautiful singers apanying Lin Jiang.

    What surprised Lin Jiang was that among the high-ranking officials, there were Wen Xing and Li Ruoxuбпs own children. He remembered that those people were sent away by Wen Xing, so how did theye back?

    The conversation was very polite, just some casual talk. Both Wen Xing and Zhang Wanjing were intentionally trying to find out information about the Lin family, and Lin Jiang calmly responded.

    The banquet went on untilte at night. Wen Xing left and Lin Jiang said goodbye, but instead of leaving immediately, he stayed at Wen Xingбп mansion. The two apanying singers had already slipped into their beds.

    "Dad, I want to go too. There are two things you canбпt handle."

    Small Shadiao also wanted to follow them into the room, but Lin Jiang kicked him out. Sometimes you have to desperately grasp something that you canбпt fully control, canбпt you?

    The next day at noon, Lin Jiang left with Small Shadiao looking resentful. They passed by the Five Elements Sect and Zhang Wanjing appeared.

    "Why is the master here?"

    "Iбпm here specifically waiting for you."

    "Is there anything else the master wants to teach me?"

    "Did you go to Anhua City yesterday?"

    "Yes"

    Lin Jiang nodded, there was nothing to hide.

    "With your intelligence, can you guess what Iбпve been waiting for?"

    "Could it be rted to Wen Xing?"

    "Yes, but not entirely."

    "Could it be Li Ruoxu?"

    "You guessed it right."

    "Grass on Li Ruoxuбпs grave must be several feet tall by now."

    Lin Jiang said. It has been decades since Li Ruoxu passed away, so itбпs not surprising that the grass on his grave has grown several feet tall.

    "Yes, but wellбн"

    "Has the master learned to keep secrets?"

    "Wen Xing is Li Ruoxu, and Li Ruoxu is Wen Xing."

    "Possession?"

    Lin Jiang was surprised and blurted out.

    "Guessing, but most likelyбн"

    "With what you just said, I pretty much agree."

    "Oh."

    "As far as I know, Wen Xing is quite fond of women. Am I right?"

    "As good as the head of the Lin family"

    "Ahem"

    Lin Jiang coughed, disrespecting his father as a son. This is not being a good child.

    "During the first ten years after Li Ruoxuбпs death, Wen Xing had many wives and even boasted about marrying all the influential women in Yun State. But in the tenth year, his personality suddenly changed. He stopped taking new wives and focused on his spiritual practice and managing Anhua City. There were also rumors that Wen Xing considered killing his own son, the child of Li Xianxian, Li Ruoxuбпs daughter."

    "Wen Xing didnбпt behave as recklessly as he did beforest night."

    Lin Jiang nodded. He also thought that Wen Xing behaved like a gentlemanst night. Wen Xing arranged a singer for them, but Lin Jiang didnбпt have one by his side. Previously, Lin Jiang thought it was because Wen Xing wanted to maintain a certain dignity in front of his son. But now, Lin Jiang realizes it was something else entirely.

    Wen Xing is not the kind of person who would take many wives after his father-inw dies. Why would he be afraid of this? It would have been good enough without any banquet. Heбпs not that honest.

    "So, basically, thatбпs it."

    "But as far as I know, taking over someone elseбпs body is not something that can be done casually."

    Lin Jiang said that possessing someoneбпs body requires certain conditions. Firstly, one must have a very strong spiritual awareness. Even after the physical body dies, the spiritual awareness should still retain some power because possession involves eliminating the opponentбпs soul and fighting within their body. It cannot be done without a certain level of strength.

    Secondly, the person who wants to possess anotherбпs body must have a certainpatibility with the body they want to possess. Otherwise, there will be a strong rejection reaction, resulting in the simultaneous copse of the physical body and soul.

    Lastly, one must consider the talent of the person being possessed. It would be a disastrous situation if a genius possessed a talentless person.

    "Donбпt you think Li Ruoxu and Wen Xing meet all the conditions?"

    "Both Li Ruoxu and Wen Xing are Nascent Souls, spirituallyбн"

    "So, this is Lin Batianбп role. The Lin family must have some secret techniques."

    "Yes, they do, but the four major families havenбпt heard of possession. Itбпs very rare in the entire world of cultivation."

    "Possession is also considered a forbidden method in the world of cultivation. It may not be openly acknowledged, but who knows what happens secretly?"

    "So, what is the purpose of Master today?"

    "I wanted to take over Anhua City."

    Zhang Wanjing said that Anhua City is bing stronger and has a close rtionship with Five Elements Sect. They need to eliminate any threats that could endanger the sect.

    "Has the master changed his mind again?"

    "Yes, I donбпt know how close Li Ruoxu is to Lin Batian. Void Achieving, I canбпt afford to provoke Five Elements Sect."

    Zhang Wanjing said that if Five Elements Sect doesnбпt even have one Void Achieving, they must consider Lin Batianбп influence. Otherwise, they would have taken action long ago.

    "Are you going to make things difficult for me again?"

    "Iбпm not making things difficult for you. Give Lin Batian a message. If Li Ruoxu really takes over, he can consider leaving Yun State. Five Elements Sect is willing to pay a certain price to take over Anhua City."

    "Okay, I will pass on the message."

    Lin Jiang nodded. Under Zhang Wanjingбпs leadership, Five Elements Sect has be stronger, and expansion is normal. Expanding towards Anhua City is not a strange thing.

    Lin Jiang is not prepared to deal with this matter, whether itбпs about possession or not. As long as it doesnбпt take away his ce, he will pretend not to know.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!