Lu Fan remained in Ironwood City, observing the cultivator exchange for any valuable items or techniques. Participants concealed their identities with masks, and many late-stage Qi cultivators openly displayed their cultivation levels to deter potential conflicts. Level 9 Qi cultivation was the highest level present at this gathering.
One by one, cultivators presented items for exchange. A Level 6 Qi cultivator offered a beast egg in exchange for a Level 1 high-grade weapon, which was promptly traded. The exchanges continued in this manner until a cultivator introduced an ancient method called the Lunar Pupils Technique. This technique utilized Lunar Qi to grant illusion abilities but was considered inferior compared to other pupil techniques. Recognizing its potential, Lu Fan traded a Level 1 mid-grade weapon for it.
When it was Lu Fan's turn, he offered a Level 1 high-grade weapon he had acquired from the Mo family, seeking unique techniques or materials related to thunder or solar energy. In response, participants presented various techniques and materials. Ultimately, Lu Fan exchanged three weapons for Lightning Gold, Dawnflame Crystal, and a technique called Karmic Flame Purging.
After the exchange concluded, Lu Fan returned to his inn. His demonstrated strength and the fact that the weapons he traded appeared to be spoils of battle discouraged others from attempting to follow or confront him. Attacking a skilled combatant, especially one proficient in weaponry, was a risk few were willing to take.
Upon examining the Lunar Pupils Technique, Lu Fan discovered that it involves absorbing Lunar Qi to form unique pupils, granting the practitioner illusionary abilities. Although considered a basic and less effective technique, its simplicity intrigued him. He decided to modify the method by substituting Lunar Qi with his internal electrical energy.
Focusing his electrical energy into his eyes, Lu Fan attempted to replicate the technique. While the illusionary effects did not manifest, his pupils readily absorbed the electricity. Observing no immediate changes, he repeated the process with his other eye. As a result, both eyes, which already possessed internal electrical storage, became further strengthened.
This enhancement not only fortified his vision but also increased the electrical capacity within his eyes, potentially offering new avenues for developing unique abilities in the future.
Lu Fan examined the Karmic Flame Purging technique, which summons flames that target individuals harboring evil intent. This method is unique in that it operates on the principle of belief. In cultivation practices, belief can be a potent force; a practitioner's unwavering conviction can manifest tangible effects. The Karmic Flame Purging technique harnesses this concept by deriving its power from the belief in purity and righteousness. By focusing on the essence of purity, the practitioner can summon karmic flames that selectively purge malevolent intentions.
Upon examining the Karmic Flame Purging technique, Lu Fan recognized its reliance on profound belief and purity, traits typically associated with monastic practitioners. Understanding that only monks, with their deep spiritual convictions, could effectively cultivate this method, he decided to set it aside. Accepting its unsuitability for his path, Lu Fan resumed his journey, seeking techniques more aligned with his cultivation style and objectives.
As Lu Fan settled into his newly acquired courtyard, a group of men approached, their demeanor imposing. The leader, a burly figure with a scar across his cheek, stepped forward.
Gang Leader: "Welcome to our town, stranger. We represent the Iron Fist Gang. Around here, newcomers show their respect. A small contribution ensures... protection."
Understanding the implied threat, Lu Fan maintained his composure.
Lu Fan: "I see. And how much is this... contribution?"
The gang leader smirked.
Gang Leader: "For someone like you? Let's say ten silver coins."
Recognizing the need to avoid unnecessary conflict, Lu Fan reached into his pouch and handed over the requested amount.
Lu Fan: "Here you go. I trust this settles everything."
The leader accepted the coins, nodding in satisfaction.
Gang Leader: "Wise choice. Enjoy your stay in our town. Remember, the Iron Fist Gang is always here to... assist."
With that, the group departed, leaving Lu Fan to reflect on the encounter and plan his next steps in this new environment.
Over the next few days, Lu Fan discreetly gathered information about the town's surroundings, focusing on areas rumored to be dangerous. During this period, he became acutely aware of the oppressive conditions faced by the impoverished residents, who were routinely suppressed by local gangs and influential families. Determined to address this injustice, he compiled a comprehensive list of these malevolent groups and individuals.
Utilizing the Lightning Gold he had acquired earlier, Lu Fan refined a specialized eye weapon, enhancing his precision and effectiveness in combat. One moonless night, he embarked on a clandestine mission, visiting each identified gang and corrupt family. Employing his refined weapon, he unleashed precise lightning strikes, resulting in a swift and decisive purge of these malevolent entities. At each location, he left behind a symbol accompanied by the inscription: "Evil should be punished."He left the symbol so that innocent won't be blame for his action.If he do this many time then authorities will stop looking for murderer.
The following morning, the town was abuzz with news of the overnight events. While some residents were initially shocked, many secretly celebrated the eradication of those who had long plagued their community. A sense of cautious optimism began to permeate the town, as the oppressive shadow of the gangs and corrupt families had been lifted.
After departing the city, Lu Fan embarked on a journey through various mortal towns, seeking a secluded spiritual vein to establish his cultivation base. Aware that such veins are often accompanied by formidable guardians—be they fierce beasts, malevolent cultivators, or restless spirits—he meticulously explored each dangerous locale he encountered.
In many instances, his investigations led him to dens of bandits rather than the coveted spiritual veins. Unwilling to tolerate their malevolence, Lu Fan took it upon himself to eradicate these outlaws, leaving behind his distinctive eye symbol as a mark of justice.
Over the course of several months, he traversed approximately thirty towns, eliminating numerous bandit factions. Despite his efforts, the elusive spiritual vein remained undiscovered. Meanwhile, his emblem—the eye symbol—gained widespread recognition among the local populace. Many began referring to it as the "Heavenly Eye," and some even started venerating the symbol, believing it to be a divine sign.
Undeterred by the absence of a spiritual vein, Lu Fan remained committed to his quest, all the while inadvertently becoming a beacon of hope and justice for the oppressed communities he encountered.