In this vast sector, Cyan found himself in the bustling heart of the Golden Jade Pavilion, the largest and most reputable establishment of its kind in the entire Federation. These pavilions held immense power, and it was common knowledge that challenging them would be unwise. However, their success was not solely due to their influence. The Golden Jade Pavilion's business thrived because they operated with utmost integrity, never cheating or deceiving their customers. Their commitment to prioritizing their customers' interests had earned them the trust and loyalty of many, particularly mercenaries who valued fair treatment and just compensation.
As Cyan entered the grand building, he marveled at the plethora of goods on display. The Golden jade Pavilion catered to the needs of mercenaries, offering not only medicinal plants and elixirs but also top-notch weaponry required in their perilous undertakings. The constant influx of customers ensured their business was always booming, for mercenaries relied on life-saving elixirs and weapons of the highest quality to brave the treacherous forests.
At the entrance stood formidable guards, emanating an aura of authority and power. It was evident that they were not to be trifled with. Cyan stepped inside and was met by a waiter who quickly noticed his presence, extending a courteous welcome. "Welcome, esteemed guest. Are you here to purchase or sell?" the waiter inquired, maintaining a polite smile.
"I am here to purchase," Cyan replied.
"What are you looking to buy? We offer a wide array of items in our pavilion. Please let me know so that I may cater to your needs with utmost care," the waiter responded, his professionalism evident.
Cyan nodded in acknowledgement, appreciating the efficiency of having a waiter to assist in such a vast establishment. He handed the prepared list of herbs to the waiter and said, "I require the herbs mentioned on this list."
The waiter's surprise was palpable, for the list contained a mixture of both common and poisonous herbs. Sensing the hesitation, Cyan calmly asked, "Is there a problem?"
The waiter quickly composed himself and replied, "No problem at all. How much quantity will you be needing?"
"I will require seven parts for now," Cyan answered without hesitation.
The waiter excused himself to retrieve the requested magical plants, and Cyan took the opportunity to explore the herbal section, observing the prices and arrangements of various magical plants. He noticed that certain herbs were placed in lower-level areas, underscoring the pavilion's limited understanding of their significance. A peculiar occupational hazard, Cyan mused, as the needed formulas for various potions and elixirs often appeared in his mind upon seeing particular herbs. However, due to his sealed soul power, he currently had limitations on crafting high-level potions and elixirs.
Cyan chuckled to himself, knowing that despite this setback, he would make the most of his current situation and continue his pursuit of knowledge in the field of herbalism. As he waited for the waiter's return, Cyan reflected on the importance of resourcefulness in navigating the Federation.
Cyan didn't have to wait long before the waiter returned with all the herbs on his list. He examined them carefully, satisfied with the Golden jade Pavilion's handling of the delicate plants. The herbs were in impeccable condition, and Cyan appreciated the care that had been taken.
As the waiter informed him of the total cost, Cyan raised an eyebrow in surprise. Sensing his skepticism, the waiter quickly explained, "The increase in price is due to the scarcity of the bitter flower. Its poisonous nature deters most mercenaries from gathering large quantities, resulting in a relative scarcity."
Cyan nodded understandingly. Mercenaries typically focused on gathering high-demand herbs, often overlooking those with inherent toxicity. However, he was aware of the bitter flower's potential when combined with the purple clover, as it acted as a neutralizer for the poison. While the purple clover was a common weed used to mask odors in the wild, few knew of its valuable properties as a stabilizer and neutralizer.
Cyan paid the requested amount, watching his points nearly deplete. He reassured himself, knowing that a significant payoff awaited him in the near future.
"Thank you for your assistance. I will definitely consider visiting again," Cyan responded to the waiter, acknowledging the excellent customer service he had experienced.
Leaving the Golden Jade Pavilion with his precious herbs, Cyan felt a sense of satisfaction.
Cyan didn't waste time; he quicky boiled the herbs according to the recipe and took it. He immediately felt drowsy, he knows that's the effect of the potion soothing his soul.
Cyan slept well, he didn't even wake up till the next day. His body and soul feels refreshed, he noticed the pain is negligible unlike the excruciating one before.
Glancing inside his soul platform, Cyan observed that the crack was still present. However, the continuous fracture had slowed down, indicating that the potion had indeed had a positive impact on his soul's healing process. He could now meditate and utilize his soul force more effectively to nourish his soul platform.
With his body and soul revitalized, Cyan resumed his meditation practice, assuming the familiar pose and delving into the soul technique he had acquired from the tower. This technique was of the highest caliber, granting him deeper insight into the mysteries of the soul and enhancing his ability to harness and control his soul force.
As Cyan concentrated, his body absorbed the essence of the surrounding air rich in the necessary elements for his practice. Being closer to the forest, his residence seemed to benefit from the abundant natural resources, providing him with an optimal environment for his cultivation.
Cyan reflected on his past life, where he had been unable to practice cultivation due to the elite families' monopoly over advanced techniques. In order to gain access to superior techniques, individuals were required to join and serve these families, even though the techniques offered were not top-notch but rather of a lower level. Nevertheless, this did not deter countless individuals from flocking towards these families in search of better cultivation prospects.
The government had acknowledged this issue and had made an effort to address it by releasing some basic body movement exercises to the public. While these exercises were beneficial for general health and well-being, they paled in comparison to the truly top-notch techniques.
Cyan could now clearly feel the difference in his body and soul after dedicating himself to practice. The combined effects of his soul technique, and the nourishment from the surrounding elements were evident. He felt stronger, more connected, and more in tune with his inner self.
However, he chose not to take the potion in the morning as its drowsy effect would hinder his plans for the day. He had pressing matters to attend to, particularly the meeting with the individuals dispatched by the Carlton family.
Knowing that the meeting was held at the central area's largest restaurant, Cyan made his way there. As he walked through the bustling streets, he observed the diverse faces of city dwellers, each immersed in their own pursuits and ambitions. The atmosphere was vibrant, but Cyan remained focused on the task at hand.