Chapter 58 - 129-136

Chapter 129

Five Elements Sect,Chuangong 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 place 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.

········

"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 speculation come 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.

(Translated 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 planning 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 will come 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 a large number of people, so the office area is also huge. It is a complex 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 and law 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 newcomers 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' salaries 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 a large company with various departments.

But Lin Jiang certainly wouldn't say anything now. It would be foolish to come on the first day and start making all kinds of comments and writing suggestions. That's something only inexperienced newcomers do. But Lin Jiang was not an inexperienced newcomer.

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 balances 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. They completely 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 actually complimenting 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 who completely 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 was completely 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 plan. 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 are lazy, and replace 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

Five Elements Sect,Internal Affairs Hall

"Get lost! If you have guts, tell Guo Yunfeng to personally come 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.

(Translated 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, come 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. According 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, just complain 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't last 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 and composed in his actions than his own son. He thought that he should nurture him with great effort.

"Master, complaining 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 and comfort 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 to compare 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 to compare 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 become 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 a comfortable life these years, why would he go looking for discomfort?

·······

"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 big commotion. 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 clamoring 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 time comes, 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 similar things, such as when the sect is lacking something and needs to make large-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 collaborated 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 access 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 planned ahead and when the time comes, 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 plan 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 planning.

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 places, 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 is coming, let's get started. Let's begin with a discussion of this year's events."

Qin Quan glanced at the time, realizing that no one else was coming. 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 income and expenses in terms of spirit stones, all with specific data.

These contents were compiled 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 relatively unchanged for many years. The income 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.

"The last sentence, I won't say it anymore. You all have heard enough of Zhang Wanjing's words."

When they reached the last 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 accuse him of disrespecting his elders and violating the rules of the sect. According 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 replacing him with your eldest disciple? My requirements aren't high. As long as he can reach the same level as Zhang Wanjing, I will completely demote Zhang Wanjing and punish him with a self-reflection period of one hundred years. What do you think?"

Qin Quan glanced 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 he come here to complain?

"Ahem, well, Master Brother, the sect has many talented individuals, so it's possible to replace 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 place, 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. Becoming 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've come 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 crisis come 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 a lack of successor, 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 planning 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 can compensate 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.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😄)

·······

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 have come 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't come, 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 blame Zhang Wanjing for being unreliable, making them come 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't coming? 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 pillars were made of precious third-grade spirit wood. Comparing his residence to this one was like comparing a village 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 accompany 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 is laughing 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

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 delayed 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 a lack 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 become relaxed, occupying 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?

(Translated 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. They lack 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 become 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 successors for the Five Elements Sect, when these Nascent Soul and Soul Changing disciples pass away, can the Five Elements Sect still become 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 blame 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, delaying 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 occupied by the same people. There are hardly any newcomers. 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 become 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 places, only coming back occasionally. 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 ancestors···"

"Martial Uncle, I really can't contact them. The ancestors did leave a Life Talisman for me, but it can only be used as a last 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.

·······

"Xiao Yi and Shuhua, please come 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't come 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 become 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 explain 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 outcome?

"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

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 playing 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 truly comes to that, I will go with my father."

"You're crazy, your father is crazy, and you're crazy too!"

(Translated 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 accompany us, then go ahead. My father won't blame 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 plans 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 become 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 village with ordinary people. My parents were just ordinary people. Besides farming, they didn't know anything else. Our village 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 village 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 village, 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 village. 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 villagers.

"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 becomes 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 become 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 become 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 become meaningless under their interference. Many years later, 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 success? Reforms always come 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 they compete 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't completely 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 will come 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

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, placing them all in the realm of Yun State.

For example, Shang Yang's Reform was described as the merging of seven villages, with a man named Shang Yang advising the village chief.

Wang Anshi and Zhang Juzheng also went through changes and reforms, just like the background that was modified in some villages, 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 Village, Song Village, and Ming Village 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 flaws 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 place 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 villages, but only Qin Village succeeded while the others failed. This happened because he had the support of those in power. When the leaders firmly support you, you can succeed. But if they waver, the outcome will be disastrous.

So, the first lesson is that you don't need the support of those in power; instead, you need to become 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 become the sect leader, we will have the strength to confront them directly.

"Second, Wang Anshi's reforms had a major flaw: 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 a competent team who are loyal to the master and have the ability, rather than just talk big."

"Third, Zhang Juzheng's reforms were quite successful, but as soon as he died, they were immediately undone. We need to learn from this that we have to outlast our enemies. When a policy comes out, the beneficiaries of those policies must truly become 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 clan, you must become 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 but laugh 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 incompetent village become powerful. The Five Elements Sect is still strong now. If he can achieve it, won't the Five Elements Sect become the number one sect in Yun State?

········

"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 will come to know this reason later. 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?"

(Translated 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 become 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 successful 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

Five Elements Sect, Mountain Gate

Inside the main hall of the sect, nine elders gathered together, accompanied by nine powerful cultivators. This was a rare occurrence, 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 villages. 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. A large 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 has come 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.

(Translated 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 clan members, all of whom are incompetent 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 slap 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. According 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 your command. 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 villain, if the Five Elements Sect declines and falls, you should take half of the responsibility."

"Nonsense, unfounded claims! 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 villain, 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 become elders are not fools. According 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 relatives. 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 incompetent person, then it will be the sect's sorrow.

······

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 plan 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 relationship 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 clan."

"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 is coming 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 a large 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 to come 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 time comes, 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 relatives of the Nascent Soul cultivators. They are taking too much. Since that's the case, it's time for a power shift.

Actually, according to Lin Jiang's idea, he prefers to slack off. He doesn't care about this lousy sect. Whoever wants to take charge can take charge. When everything is completely ruined, then we can clean up the mess and start anew.

Chapter 136

Five Elements Sect,Internal 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 spiritual land, specifically the lower-level kind.

The spiritual land in Five Elements Sect is very extensive, spanning millions of acres. Nine-tenths of it is lower-level spiritual land 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 accomplished 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."

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😄)

The Hall Master said to Zhang Wanjing. They didn't completely 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 become 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't completely 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 explain.

"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 be completely 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.

······

"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 flag 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 or later.

Perhaps Zhang Wanjing had come to his senses. A day later, 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 place 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 unpopular place, 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, come 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 spiritual land, go through them again, organize the data. See how much spiritual land the sect has used over the years, how much spiritual paddy, and elixirs. Don't think you can be lazy 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 glance 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 Jiang combined 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 explain it to you. This here represents the annual planting area, which is measured in acres. And here is the quantity of offerings to the sect..."

Lin Jiang explained 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 planted and offered. Most people are able to complete the task. As for how much is left after completing 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. According to the current market price, it's less than two hundred spirit stones. And this is not the final income because when planting 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 was lazy 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 of land per person for cultivation will also increase significantly.

Giving regular farmers a complete set of tools and techniques will allow them to easily cultivate more than just two hundred acres, even reaching thousands of acres.