Chapter 54 - 101-107

Chapter 101

Yunzhong City

Lin Die and Cao Ying were shocked to see the large 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 population of about one million people on a daily basis, including the villages 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 he lacks 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."

"······"

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 explained 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 classified 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 become a piece of cake. For an assassin organization, this is the ultimate weapon.

The Lin Die explained that the cultivator felt very insecure and had to set up formations wherever they lived. But they felt safe and relaxed 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 explain 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 become 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.

·······

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't come 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 of combat 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 but later 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

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 the later 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 could communicate if they wanted to and block communication 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 was completely 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 recommendations?"

"Actually, there is something. Uncle, have you heard of the Plastic Bone Pill?"

"No, you tell me."

"The Plastic 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 Plastic 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 is compatible with their Spiritual Root in order to have hope of becoming an immortal."

"In reality, a Heavenly Spiritual Root and Five Spiritual Roots are completely 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 stages compared 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's comprehension 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 Classic 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 Classic is special. It has great flexibility, which means it lacks unique advantages. It can only be improved based on one's own situation. Cloud Void Master successfully 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't come 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 circulated. 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 relationship with the Five Elements Sect."

"Don't deceive me. Even with a good relationship, 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 it comes 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 Plastic Bone Pill. He decided to obtain the Plastic 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 hours later, 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 to come 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.

(Translated 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 their later years?

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 two companions.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😖)

Lin Die knew that Lin Jiang needed the Plastic 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 place 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 become a golden core cultivator. He had a female cultivator by his side, who should be Li Ruoxu's daughter. Her appearance wasn't particularly remarkable, but she seemed very gentle. Her eyes occasionally glanced at Wen Xing, and all her attention was on him.

"Women with love-struck minds are really scary."

Lin Jiang sighed. He would occasionally 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 occasionally 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 exemplary independent farmer."

Lin Jiang laughed and replied. Wen Xing has become 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 can network well and take advantage of others, that's even more impressive.

Many men curse Wen Xing with their words, but secretly, they fantasize about becoming 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 time comes, 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 to come here. Don't expect to make a big splash.

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 no commission 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 claw, which caused an uproar among the crowd.

"Taoist Friend Lin, is that the claw 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 for later."

Lin Batian laughed out loud. He was known for his strength and had shocked the entire crowd by cutting off one of the claws 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 claw to a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Cloud Sword Sect. The claw, 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 will compensate. 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?"

"·····"

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, volatile and unstable, not suitable for alchemy but more suitable for battles.

The trade was completed 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. They communicated 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 Plastic 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 Plastic 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 Plastic 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 Plastic 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 become 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 places 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 Plastic 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

Yunzhong City

The Centennial Celebration has ended, and outside the city is a scene of slaughter. 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 would last 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 one last 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."

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😉)

Lin Jiang pointed to the spiritual land 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 plant 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 become overly dependent.

Lin Jiang didn't know what Cao Ying was thinking, and he couldn't read minds either. But it was becoming very obvious. According 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 Tribulation. 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 overcome the tribulation. 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 become 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 accept. 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 accept 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 to compete 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, combined with her constant growth, she had already come 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 can come 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 can come back to rely on her, cling to her thigh, and buy a big house in Yunzhong City to live the life of a landlord, 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 place 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 accepted 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 days later, Lin Jiang looked at the now empty cave and flew away without looking back.

Chapter 105

Inside an unknown cave

Lin Jiang lay 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 days later, 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 was completely absorbed by his body.

"My talent has improved twice as much as before, thanks to the Plastic 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 Plastic Bone Pill. It was worth the excruciating pain he endured to reshape his bones. After using the Plastic Bone Pill, Lin Jiang's talent had doubled compared 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. According 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 high comprehension, while those with low comprehension 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 become strong after eating it, while others remain weak. This is the difference in bone quality.

"I don't understand how the Plastic Bone Pill works, but the regular people, especially the poor ones, don't know anything about it. The poor people are really isolated."

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 succeed 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 Plastic Bone Pills?"

Lin Jiang considered whether he should endure the hardships again for a second or third time. Cao Ying had mentioned that the Plastic 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.

······

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 the largest 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 the largest 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 spiritual lands 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, even compared to Yunzhong City, the largest 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 accelerate 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 similar plants. The conditions for the survival of some medicinal herbs are extremely specific. Creating a Spiritual Herb Garden that can simulate their natural environment is very expensive. So, some people use variants or sub-species as substitutes. The medicinal properties may seem similar, but even the slightest difference can be deadly.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😣)

These are just the basic tricks that Lin Jiang has come 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.

"Five Spirit Manual"

The Decision of Unity

"Hunyuan Treasure Book"

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 similar 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 backyard combined 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 so lazy that he didn't bother with the renovation. He just did a quick cleaning and set up shelves to display 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 the commonly used second-tier talismans. He didn't even bother with the occasional 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 accommodation 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. Occasionally, he would go out for a walk, but he mostly kept to himself.

As time went by, Lin Jiang's spiritual talismans slowly gained popularity 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.

·······

"Brother Lin Hua, you finally came!"

Three years later, in a house in the south of Medicine City, Lin Jiang walked in and a big man warmly greeted him.

"Brother Zhong, am I late? 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 a large 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 become 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 accepted 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 months later, 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 finally come for them to enjoy the fruits of their labor. 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 is coming!"

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 relationship might come 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 hours later, 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

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, declaring 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 them late-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 that last 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, never lacks 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 successful, with a good income. 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 income..."

"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 from last 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 place 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 must come 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 have committed 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 income.

"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 were completely 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 accept 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 played 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 also come 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.

(Translated 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 relationship with someone who works in the library of the sect. He can easily find this information and make it easier for Lin Jiang to plan. 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 become 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 place to meddle in other people's business, especially since he wasn't in an official position yet.

Three days later, 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 becoming brothers-in-law 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 be lazy."

Six months later, 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

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 spiritual land, 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 occasionally 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 accumulated 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 secular world.

Cultivation was too difficult – day after day, year after year of training, with little or no rewards. Instead, it was more comfortable to be lazy. 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 – 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 be lazy continued to be lazy, 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 glanced 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 were completely 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 the largest landlord in Yuanshan Town. They have no worries about raising children. If they have many, naturally, there will be exceptional talents among them.

·······

"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 delayed their progress. But they had accumulated 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 delayed 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 villain 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 village 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 have come 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!"

(Translated 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 had come 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 became completely 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 villains. 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 glance 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 play pretend with you. One last 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 Qi completely collapsed. 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 glanced 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 villain.

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 their combat 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.