Early in the morning, Chef Zeng took his leave. Lin Changheng was not in seclusion at the time and personally saw him off.
However, he did not leave through the same route he had entered, but instead changed direction.
He opened a small gap in the formation from the edge of the western mudflat, allowing him to quietly slip into the water, remain submerged for a distance, and then reappear and escape.
In fact, Chef Zeng was quite meticulous.
He was probably aware of the problem of his exposure, so he changed his appearance and slightly adjusted his movements. Of course, under Lin Changheng's gaze, this technique was somewhat clumsy and rudimentary, and there was nothing to hide.
But it was still not a big problem to conceal the perception and gaze of cultivators who were not proficient in this art.
"Brother Lin, it's just that the matter of the new [Mysterious Spirit Essence Blood] that I mentioned to you earlier needs to be postponed for a while. We can continue after this matter is over."
Chef Zeng had successfully achieved his goal of obtaining the medicine, but thinking of the other party's needs... he couldn't help but sigh and explain apologetically.
"Let's get through this difficult time for now,"
Lin Changheng said magnanimously, knowing the priorities and offering words of comfort.
"Thank you for your understanding."
In reality, his statement stemmed from his concern that his family's unfulfilled promise might displease Lin Changheng. During the war, the demand for elixirs was enormous, requiring reliance on Lin Changheng, creating a significant conflict.
Therefore, the explanation was necessary.
...
Lin Changheng stood there, watching the slowly closing array, his expression grim.
The Huang family's promise of new essence blood had indeed involved considerable effort and thought, continuing even as Huang Jiuyuan's lifespan approached.
The Huang family cultivators who came to collect the medicine each year had reported on the progress.
Just when it seemed implementation was about to begin, allowing Lin Changheng to obtain the supplies in bulk, this unexpected turn of events occurred.
"Damn it..."
Adding to this, the Huang family's enemies might attack him, forcing him to sever ties with the Huang family.
After all, he had quite a reputation in the area around the Immortal City and the Huang family, partly due to the deliberate efforts of the Huang family. If he were to cut ties, many people who were watching would run away.
Furthermore, his publicly known cultivation level was only at the early Foundation Establishment stage, which hadn't yet become widely known and could potentially attract trouble.
He was seen as an easy target.
However, the pros and cons were mixed. To kill someone at the early Foundation Establishment stage, the enemy would at most send one or two mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators, and even then, it would be considered a serious threat.
If that were the case,
Lin Changheng wouldn't mind killing these foolish individuals who had come to him unscrupulously.
Only death would put his mind at ease towards those who harbored ill will towards him.
It would also alleviate some of the direct pressure on the Huang family.
If he were asked to help the Huang family fight and repel enemies, Lin Changheng would absolutely refuse, not even mentioning it.
But if it was someone he already wanted to kill, offering the Huang family a head as a convenient gift wouldn't be unreasonable.
It was just that they had their eyes on him.
...
And so, another two years passed.
This year, Lin Changheng was ninety-three years old.
Still, nothing had happened.
Of course, even during these turbulent times, Lin Changheng did not leave his cave.
Just when Lin Changheng thought the other party was quite sensible, he also began to lessen his killing intent.
Now, the Huang family's situation has entered a stalemate.
A stalemate that is unfavorable to them.
The three families that attacked the Huang family are individually no match for the Huang family at its peak, and even two of them are barely equal, and the three combined do not have much of an advantage.
But now the Huang family has lost its oldest and strongest late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.
Huang Jiuyuan's strength is extremely powerful, and he can easily fight two opponents of the same level.
When facing a pseudo-Core Formation cultivator, he can withstand two attacks and eventually escape.
Now, without Huang Jiuyuan, the Huang family's strength is obviously weakened. They cannot withstand two enemy clans working together, let alone three?
The supporting role of the top combat force is obvious.
Similarly, if the Nascent Soul cultivator of the [Southern Palace] in Song territory were to encounter misfortune, losing its pillar of support, the entire Song territory would inevitably become a coveted prize, attracting the covetous eyes of several neighboring countries, and even potentially triggering wars.
The wild and desolate borders of Song territory stretch extremely far, representing both a crisis and an inexhaustible resource pool.
Blessed with unparalleled advantages,
the Huang family is now forced to abandon most of its resource points, merely holding onto a small area near their base.
The situation is difficult, but they remain resilient.
The entire family is burning with resentment, a deep-seated hatred that refuses to dissipate.
The elixir they brought back for Huang Qingshan last time was remarkably effective, saving him, but not long ago, due to insufficient cultivation, he was directly killed, his head severed by the enemy, placed in a brocade box, and sent back to [Lingqiong Mountain].
This was the first Foundation Establishment cultivator to die in this protracted battle.
Generally speaking, Foundation Establishment cultivators are more cautious; unless overwhelmingly powerful or carelessly entering a dangerous situation, they are difficult to stop and kill.
Therefore, some in the Huang family speculate that it was the late-stage Foundation Establishment elder of the [Swallowing Gold Mountain Yang Family] who was responsible.
However, they have no way to retaliate, and can only bear this grudge.
After all, the Grand Elder of the [Swallowing Gold Mountain Yang Family] is also a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, with many years of experience and terrifying methods.
Although he couldn't defeat Huang Jiuyuan, Huang Chenshan, the second elder of the Huang family, was also in the late Foundation Establishment stage, having advanced for over twenty years, making him no match for him.
Later, Chef Zeng came twice more.
The information he brought, along with some he'd gleaned from two fellow Daoists next door, was pieced together.
According to him, the reason for the previous incident was indeed due to an internal traitor within the family.
The one who secretly defected was a high-ranking member, whom they painstakingly plotted to expose. He was very well hidden and was ultimately killed in public. This was
meant to deter similar acts of treason!
Especially at such a critical juncture, the entire clan must be united.
What puzzled Chef Zeng was that the enemy did indeed have a plan to attack Lin Changheng.
However, for some reason, it was shelved or canceled.
Chef Zeng and Lin Changheng discussed this for a long time without a clear answer, so they had to abandon the idea.
Lin
Changheng also gave the newly refined pills to the other party.
He hoped the Huang family could persevere and weather this calamity. At least for now, the cooperation between the two sides was quite pleasant, a mutually beneficial relationship.
But the final outcome was beyond his control.
He could only let nature take its course.
...
Another six months passed.
A magic boat flew in from the horizon.
This was Chef Zeng's fourth visit to Jade Belt Lake.
Still seeking medicine.
But this time was completely different.
When Lin Changheng welcomed Chef Zeng inside, his vast, spreading divine sense sensed something, glancing casually at a certain spot behind him before leaving as if unaware.
Clearly, Chef Zeng was unaware that he had someone following him.
As for why he didn't act immediately, he probably had another purpose.
...
This time, the required pills were significantly more, requiring Lin Changheng to refine them for at least a month.
Moreover, three or four batches were specifically for healing and detoxification.
This reflected the current tense and dire situation.
The battle intensified.
After briefly inquiring about the situation, Chef Zeng hurriedly left again.
This time, Lin Changheng didn't let him leave quietly through another spot on the island's edge like before.
Instead, he escorted him directly to the spot where he had just entered.
He left openly and legitimately.
Chef Zeng was surprised, but not overly concerned. Perhaps Lin Changheng felt there was no risk after so long, and no need for concealment.
"Whoosh!"
Chef Zeng soared into the air like a rainbow, quickly disappearing from sight.
The gap in the formation slowly closed, concealing himself again. Lin Changheng stood motionless within the formation, seemingly floating in mid-air, frozen like a wooden stake.
But his divine sense had already spread out across the sky.
"How did he disappear?"
Lin Changheng asked in surprise.
One possibility was that he had already left.
But that was unlikely.
Moreover, he hadn't noticed a sound when Chef Zeng flew away; after all, Lin Changheng had sensed the man's arrival. It was illogical
that he wouldn't be completely unaware of his departure. That left only one explanation. Even if this person didn't leave with Chef Zeng, or perhaps his target wasn't Chef Zeng at all… "Open." Muttering this, Lin Changheng narrowed his eyes and suddenly opened them. Instantly, pale gold, clear, and gray light intertwined and swirled within his eyes, like divine light projected onto distant mountains. His head slowly turned, the divine light beginning to scan. Half an hour later. Lin Changheng's eyes narrowed, looking at a certain spot. There, a deeply hidden figure remained in the green forest. Like a silent, unyielding rock, or a formless black shadow. Quite mysterious. It made no sound, showed no signs of life. If it weren't for Lin Changheng's three-fold superposition, allowing him to see through spiritual energy, he wouldn't have detected anything. "Very good." A cold glint flashed in Lin Changheng's eyes, confirming his suspicions. He just didn't know the other party's cultivation level; otherwise, he could have made a move. Now, he could only wait. … Late at night. A whole day had passed, and Lin Changheng had been observing this person all day. Still motionless, like a venomous snake lurking in wait. "They've got patience," Lin Changheng thought, but he wasn't ready to wait any longer. He had figured it out: late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators needed to strategize, oversee their clans, or navigate the battlefield; they didn't have time to waste here. Even if there was only a sliver of a chance this person was a genuine late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, he could hold out at this short distance and escape back into the formation. And if the opponent made a careless mistake, he could potentially tear them apart at close range. Therefore, from any perspective, the risk was controllable, and the potential gains were immense. ...
Having made his decision, Lin Changheng checked his storage bag, prepared himself, and directly used the hidden exit of the second cave in the back mountain to dive into the water. He emerged from the water at a distance, circled around extensively, and then slowly approached using the [Concealing Breath Demonic Technique].
Without warning, Lin Changheng had already become one with his environment.
He was like a gentle breeze across a lake, or a fallen leaf drifting down from the forest. His aura, body temperature, and even the faint fluctuations of spiritual energy around him were perfectly concealed, completely blending with the surrounding moisture and the vitality of the trees.
Even if a cultivator scanned him with their divine sense, they would most likely ignore him, mistaking him for just a slightly thicker cloud of mist.
He did not rush directly to the lurking cultivator's location, but instead used the [Perceiving Otherworldly Technique] to observe from afar the extremely faint flow of spiritual energy around the other party, almost indistinguishable from the natural environment, searching for the perfect angle and timing to enter.
Lin Changheng had tested this combined divine light gaze multiple times, and it didn't create the feeling of being watched or spied on.
It was as if it weren't a human gaze, but rather the projection of natural light.
He had previously "stared" at this person for half a day, and the other party hadn't reacted at all, further confirming this.
Meanwhile, his divine sense was constricted, not spreading, to avoid being discovered.
At the same time, his internal magical power surged, one hand loosely gripping a black seal, the other concealing a chillingly cold, cyan-gold flying sword in his sleeve.
He was like a patient hunter, silently closing the distance to his prey.
Five hundred zhang, four hundred zhang, three hundred zhang…
The lurking cultivator remained as still as a true rock, showing no movement whatsoever, clearly extremely confident in his concealment methods, unaware of the deadly danger approaching.
Two hundred zhang, one hundred and fifty zhang, one hundred zhang…
This distance was already a range that a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator could confidently and quickly reach!
A cold light suddenly flashed in Lin Changheng's eyes!
Now!
With a thought, wooden energy coiled around his hand, and he unleashed the [Illusory Art - Ascension] in a single swing.
Simultaneously, he ceased his concealment, channeling his magic power, instantly dispelling the [Concealing Breath Demonic Art], and unleashing the spiritual pressure of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, like a lurking tiger suddenly pouncing!
His left hand slammed downwards.
"Buzz—!"
A clear sound rang out as the seal surged forth, growing larger and larger until it resembled a gigantic black millstone, crashing down upon his opponent!
His right hand also rose, and the azure-gold flying sword emitted a sword cry, transforming into a bolt of lightning that tore through the sky, aiming straight for his opponent's back!
Several low-grade second-tier talismans activated simultaneously—ice spears, fire snakes, vines… rained down, sealing off all possible escape routes!
Illusory, black seal, flying sword, talismans!
A four-pronged attack, seamlessly linked, without reservation!
A sneak attack, aiming for a fatal blow!
Only then did the lifeless black shadow jolt violently, as if forcibly awakened from its illusion.
A surge of anger and shock, typical of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator at the sixth level, erupted, attempting to resist this sudden and deadly attack.
However, Lin Changheng's meticulously planned trap had seized too much of the initiative!
First, the [Illusion-Inducing] power that had silently invaded its mind, while failing to drag it into the illusion for long, successfully caused it to lose its composure at the most crucial moment, disrupting its instinctive counterattack and defensive rhythm.
Immediately afterward, the black platform, now the size of a millstone, crashed down with immense force!
"Who dares to attack!"
The black shadow hastily erected bone shield, its spiritual light barely illuminating, was crushed down by the absolute power of the black platform!
"Crack!"
with a crisp sound, and the bone shield let out a mournful cry.
The spiritual light dimmed instantly, and it was blasted away, several fine lines climbing up its surface. The black shadow himself, who had hastily gotten up, was also pressed down by this enormous force, his body suddenly sinking, his feet sinking directly into the ground!
In that split second when his old strength was exhausted, his new strength had not yet been generated, and his body was restrained—
"Swoosh!"
The lightning bolt formed by the cyan-gold flying sword arrived first, accurately seizing the opening he had made while resisting the giant seal, instantly piercing through his magic shield.
But the man twisted and dodged at lightning speed, but it was still too late. The flying sword pierced through his back and emerged from his chest!
Bringing out a spray of warm blood!
"Ugh!"
The black shadow let out a shrill scream, his body trembled violently, and the condensed magic power instantly collapsed.
Almost simultaneously, the ice spears, fire snakes, and vines formed by several second-tier talismans were already upon him! Without effective defense, he was instantly overwhelmed by the violent magical energy!
"Boom!"
Ice crystals shattered, flames raged, and vines entangled!
A series of explosions and energy shocks raged wildly in that area, smoke and dust mixed with spiritual light shooting into the sky, obscuring vision.
Lin Changheng had already retreated to a safe distance, expressionless as he watched the center of the explosion. With a flick of his hand, the black seal platform whistled back, hovering in front of him, spinning rapidly, ready to deal with any last-ditch struggle or deliver a final blow.
The smoke slowly dissipated.
A sizable crater had appeared in the spot, the surrounding vegetation destroyed, a scene of utter devastation.
The dark figure lay slumped at the bottom of the crater, his body charred black, his clothes torn, covered in frost, burn marks, and the marks of vines binding him. The sword wound on his chest was particularly gruesome, blood gushing out, his breath utterly exhausted, only exhaling, not inhaling.
His eyes, filled with horror, resentment, and disbelief, were fixed on Lin Changheng as he slowly approached.
"Lin...Lin Lin..."
He seemed unable to comprehend how, as a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator skilled in stealth and assassination, he could have been so easily defeated by a mere alchemist, without even being able to mount a proper counterattack.
Hunting others, only to be hunted himself?
He was filled with shock, his body trembling violently, whether from pain or the fear of death, he didn't know.
Lin Changheng walked to the edge of the pit, looking down at him with cold, unwavering eyes. He pointed his fingers like a sword and lightly flicked them.
"Whoosh!"
A thin but sharp line of fire instantly pierced the other's brow.
The dark figure's body stiffened abruptly, the light in his eyes completely dimmed, and he died instantly.
From the sudden attack to the target's demise, the entire process took only a few breaths.
This mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, who hadn't even had a chance to unleash his full power, perished in this thunderous, meticulously planned sneak attack.
After quickly collecting the corpse and conducting a soul search, Lin Changheng flicked a spark to incinerate it into ashes, then quietly flew back to Qiyue Island.
Looking at the storage bag in his hand, Lin Changheng sat in the pavilion under the moonlight.
His brows were slightly furrowed, clearly deep in thought.
The information he had just gathered from the soul search was incomplete. He didn't know if the other party had deliberately sealed it with a secret technique or for some other reason, but it appeared exceptionally scattered, making
it impossible to ascertain the whole picture.
However, from these fragments, he knew this person was a Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Wang family of Yunhuang Lake
, one of the three clans besieging the Huang family.
Their purpose was related to him.
After all, he was a respected elder of the Huang family, with a considerable reputation, and had been providing them with elixirs, making him a new target for their long-standing siege of Lingqiong Mountain.
They hoped to accelerate their attack.
Chef Zeng's frequent trips to Jade Belt Lake convinced them that Lin Changheng had provided significant support.
However, they dared not rashly attack the Jade Belt Lake spiritual land, as it was a territory of the Ziji Sect, only temporarily leased out.
Of course, if they could quickly breach and resolve the situation, leaving
no evidence and no stolen goods
, that would be fine. But if they did the opposite, attracting the attention and retaliation of the Ziji Sect, things would be dire.
They were well aware that this would have a devastating impact on their grand plan to exterminate the Huang family, and naturally wouldn't do it.
But the result was the silent loss of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator.
"Serves them right, they deserved to die."
Lin Changheng sneered.
He then directly opened his storage bag to inspect it,
simultaneously checking for any suspicious items.
Any items suspected of having markings, symbols, or location capabilities were all reduced to ashes by the [Crimson Sky Profound Flame].
Seeing the flames leaping nearby, noticeably hotter and more powerful, a look of satisfaction flashed in Lin Changheng's eyes. The
[Lava Fire Crystal] he had obtained from Ye Wugui in the Jiazi Secret Realm had now been completely absorbed and refined.
Coupled with the [Crimson True Essence] from his cultivation, the [Crimson Sky Profound Flame]'s transformation accumulation had reached about 85%. This was
a 15% increase from the previous 70%.
Now, only 15% more was needed to complete the accumulation, ready to transform into a third-tier flame.
...
His gaze shifted from the flames to the other items taken from the storage bag.
His divine sense swept over them, revealing every detail.
Besides a pile of spiritual materials for refining weapons and pills, there were also spiritual tea, spiritual fruits, and spiritual wine—items beneficial to cultivation.
There were also several second-tier talismans, a bottle of mid-grade second-tier pills for improving cultivation, and several auxiliary pills.
These were reasonably valuable, worth several thousand low-grade spirit stones.
In addition, there were over eighty mid-grade spirit stones. In
total, it was worth just over ten thousand low-grade spirit stones.
There was also a low-grade second-tier offensive spiritual weapon, which he hadn't
even had time to use. A low-grade bone shield defensive spiritual weapon had been directly crushed by the black seal platform, causing Lin Changheng a headache as he knew he'd have to repair it before he could use it.
He wasn't rich, but he wasn't poor either.
After all, cultivating to this stage had cost a considerable amount of spirit stones; resources that went into his body were resources, those that didn't were someone else's spoils.
Lin Changheng never hesitated to accept unexpected wealth. In fact
, he hoped the other party would send more people, and even hoped they would be foolish enough to launch a coordinated attack.
Anyone who dares to act will be dealt a severe blow.
He had already received a letter from Mo Zhaoli; she knew Lin Changheng's identity and the Huang family's current predicament. She
specifically wrote to explain
that if anyone dared to make a move, they should be recorded using a recording artifact and sent to her. She could then mobilize the sect's resources to strike.
Lin Changheng's eyes lit up upon reading this. A land grab was a matter of great importance.
On a minor scale, it could be considered a minor conflict between cultivators, to be resolved internally. On a major scale, it could escalate to… a matter of the Purple Extreme Sect's prestige.
And this level of judgment wasn't about Lin Changheng or his enemies—they were irrelevant to them—but rather about the sect's internal affairs.
If Mo Zhaoli, as a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, made a move, and no one with a strong relationship with the other side intervened, it would be considered an infringement on the Purple Extreme Sect's prestige and a threat to the sect's stable rule. In such a case, the consequences would be extremely serious.
Therefore, Lin Changheng was completely at ease. "
Come and try if you dare!
" This was the confidence stemming from having a powerful backer!
In fact, Lin Changheng initially wrote to Mo Zhaoli, inquiring about the Huang family's affairs and whether the Ziji Sect had any precedent for mediation.
He received a negative answer.
Mo Zhaoli's words were veiled, but their cruelty was palpable.
To a certain extent, the Ziji Sect approved of and even condoned such inter-family wars.
There were two main reasons for this.
First, the outbreak of internal conflicts between families prevented them from becoming a unified entity, thus hindering or even shaking the Ziji Sect's rule.
It was an effective way to release internal pressure.
At this time, the Ziji Sect's position was more like that of a benevolent magistrate, observing from the sidelines with peace of mind.
As long as there wasn't a large-scale extermination of families, leading to a significant reduction in their power, the Ziji Sect couldn't interfere.
...
Second, it reduced the strength of the families.
War means death, and death breeds enmity.
Unresolved hatred and mutual resentment would drive them to desperately prevent each other's growth.
Even if an extermination occurred, there was no need to worry about one side absorbing the other and becoming excessively powerful.
Because in this situation, "such a war" would become a handle in the hands of the Ziji Sect, allowing them to firmly grasp the initiative.
If there were any risks or hidden dangers arising from exceeding their strength, they could launch a legitimate attack.
This is also why the Huang family, despite having the upper hand, didn't pursue a complete annihilation.
It wasn't that they didn't want to, but that they couldn't.
The aristocratic families were their ultimate goal; any further advance would lead to annihilation.
...
Having received Mo Zhaoli's hint, Lin Changheng understood.
The Ziji Sect's interests always came first, which was normal.
Even ordinary people couldn't expect a benevolent ruler; they were extremely rare, let alone in the even more brutally competitive world of cultivation.
If someone truly believed in such a person, they'd probably be long dead.
But regardless, with Mo Zhaoli as his "backer," Lin Changheng wasn't afraid of overt methods.
...
It's worth mentioning that Lin Changheng received two more letters from the Xu family.
They were still from Tantai Feiyue and Xu Hanji.
Now, with the support of a second-tier spiritual land, the replenishment of resources from the war, and the fact that Tantai Feiyue has cultivated for a sufficient period of time, she has finally broken through to the third level of Foundation Establishment.
She now has the potential to glimpse the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.
This process took a full seventeen years.
Time has been wasted; if it weren't for Tantai Feiyue's unwavering Dao heart and Lin Changheng's encouragement, she probably would have given up long ago.
The difference in spiritual root has a profound impact, and this is where it all comes in.
Fortunately, her talent in talismanic arts is still quite good, much better than her spiritual root, and she has also entered the realm of a mid-grade second-tier talisman master. Her
status in the Xu family is even more transcendent.
...
Another letter came from Xu Hanji.
This woman's mid-grade spiritual root is clearly much better. Besides the usual pleasantries, she also mentioned her cultivation level; she has now touched the perfection of the second level of Foundation Establishment. She
may complete her accumulation at any time and break through.
And now, only nine years have passed since she broke through to the second level of Foundation Establishment; in about ten years, she can enter the third level of Foundation Establishment
and catch up with Tantai Feiyue .
...
Lin Changheng wrote back, congratulating and encouraging both women, hoping they could one day reach the Core Formation stage together.
After all, in the cultivation world, there is no more sincere blessing than "eternal advancement in cultivation."
...
Back to the present .
Having killed an ignorant cultivator, Lin Changheng didn't care and continued his cultivation and work steadily.
That day,
Lin Changheng was drinking tea alone in the lakeside pavilion by the island, watching three spirit beasts frolicking, finding a unique kind of pleasure.
Suddenly, a faint fluctuation came from his cave.
"Oh? Finally, the peak of the ninth level of Qi Refining?"
A hint of approval flashed in Lin Changheng's eyes.
This fluctuation of cultivation was obviously from Yan Mingyi, who was not present.
He immediately did some calculations.
Yan Mingyi was now fifty-six years old.
There were still four years left for her to refine herself, which was enough time.
If it weren't for the relocation and renovation of her cave, which had consumed a lot of her energy and time, she would have reached the peak of the ninth level of Qi Refining much earlier.
Then, he began to ponder in secret.
He now possessed two Foundation Establishment Pills:
a new [Premium Foundation Establishment Pill] and the [Genuine Foundation Establishment Pill] he had previously kept hidden away.
This [Premium Foundation Establishment Pill] came from Master Chu.
A year and a half ago, Master Chu brought him a main ingredient for Foundation Establishment Pills called [Seven-Star Spirit Moon Grass].
According to Master Chu, he had gone to great lengths, asking favors from all sides, to acquire this ingredient; it was extremely difficult.
He also brought along a fellow cultivator who had crowdfunded the pill refining process and
possessed a [Heavenly Crystal Lotus Root].
Adding to this, Lin Changheng had previously mentioned that he had a sect friend with a [Nine-Leaf Purple Elixir]—of course, this was a fabricated friend, but it could deter troublemakers; a word wouldn't hurt.
His [Heavenly Crystal Lotus Root] wasn't mature yet, because the amount of spiritual herbs needed to mature slowed the process, so he didn't wait any longer when he had the opportunity.
Then, Lin Changheng immediately began refining it.
Two premium-grade pills and one genuine one.
Master Chu and his invited companions were overjoyed, paid the spirit stones, and left happily.
...
This premium Foundation Establishment Pill could be given to Yan Mingyi later.
Furthermore, her body refinement had been ongoing; although it hadn't reached the late stage of the first rank, it was at least in the mid-stage, and would be somewhat useful.
Lin Changheng would then use the Poison-Dissolving Demon Technique to help her.
Besides, this woman hadn't conceived, so her essence was basically intact, and she wouldn't be too lacking.
There shouldn't be any major problems.
However, to be on the safe side, it would be best to obtain a Foundation Establishment Spiritual Object.
A Foundation Establishment Spiritual Object only cost eight or nine thousand low-grade spirit stones; it just required waiting for the auction.
...
In the following time, Lin Changheng focused on refining pills.
Fortunately, he could multitask, simultaneously comprehending many things, effectively dividing his time in two.
However, his progress in alchemy was also incredibly rapid. He could now produce ten pills in one batch, two of which were high-quality mid-grade pills.
With further refinement, he was poised to reach the second-tier high-grade alchemy level.
This kind of progress was far too stable for Lin Changheng.
Cultivation wasn't all about fighting and killing; steady management was also a viable approach.
After all, who could guarantee they would never make a mistake or capsize?
...
During this time, Lin Changheng also paused his alchemy practice and emerged from seclusion once.
It was at a banquet hosted by Cheng Suling, the island lord of the neighboring [Floating Star Island].
. Faced with the neighbor's invitation ,
Lin Changheng and Xu Maoling did not refuse and accepted.
This was also a kind of agreement between them, to have a small gathering once a year, which could both exchange information and strengthen their friendship.
This time it was Cheng Suling's turn to host.
Compared to Lin Changheng's "Qiyue Island" and Xu Maoling's "Shengyang Island," Cheng Suling's island seemed particularly different.
If Qiyue Island was surrounded by clouds and water, with its array of lights appearing and disappearing, like a hibernating giant tortoise hiding its hard shell under the mist, motionless and exuding a cold hardness that kept strangers away,
then Xu Maoling's "Shengyang Island" was a completely different scene. The spiritual fields were crisscrossed with paths, and the golden spiritual wheat rippled like waves in the wind. Spiritual plant farmers moved among them, busy and fulfilled. The rich vitality and earth spirit energy were overwhelming, much like a well-managed and fertile farm in the mortal world, down-to-earth and warm.
Cheng Suling's island, however, was entirely different from the other two.
This island lacked any striking brilliance or bustling crowds. From afar, the trees appeared exceptionally lush and verdant, their layers layered and staggered, as if they had always been so. A serene and peaceful, yet profoundly unfathomable, aura emanated from it, bringing tranquility to those who beheld it, yet inspiring awe and a reluctance to easily profane it.
Lin Changheng had secretly strained his eyes, using the "Divine Light" technique, a fusion of three arts, to observe it, and only then could he glimpse its mystery—
the island's energy flowed smoothly and seamlessly, like the circulation of blood and energy within the human body, forming a natural cycle without any obstruction.
The placement of every blade of grass, every tree, every stone, and every spring seemed random, but in reality, it subtly conformed to the principles of nature, their interconnected energies forming a vast and exquisite natural landscape.
It doesn't resist outsiders, but rather subtly integrates the island into its surroundings in a more sophisticated way, as if it were an integral part of a natural landscape. One unconsciously overlooks its existence, or feels a sense of closeness, making it difficult to harbor ill intentions.
Furthermore, several elegant bamboo and wooden pavilions are built along the mountainside, using the forest as a screen, and accompanied by rocks and springs, without any trace of artificial construction, as if they were meant to grow there.
The entire island doesn't reveal any sharp edges, yet it possesses a profound and undeniable strength.
This is precisely the work of the geomancer Cheng Suling—no defensive formations, no high walls, just following the natural flow, adjusting the earth's veins, arranging the landscape, making this land a blessed place, subtly in harmony with the way of heaven.
This is a more advanced and understated form of protection, a silent thunderclap.
Lin Changheng couldn't help but secretly admire her: "Truly worthy of being a geomancer! To be able to manage an island so perfectly in harmony with the natural order, like a blessed land created by heaven. Such methods are indeed extraordinary."
Although he possessed a [Divine Insight] ability close to that of a geomancer, in reality, he was far inferior.
He had significant shortcomings in every aspect.
After all, it was a rare and mysterious skill, naturally possessing its own unique aspects.
...
This time, Lin Changheng was still amazed upon entering.
If he hadn't been cautious, he would have definitely asked this woman to help him analyze the island's ley lines.
But if he had, then his island would have no secrets left. Under normal circumstances, it would be fine, but if the other party had malicious intentions or left some hidden tricks, the consequences would be unimaginable.
Therefore, Lin Changheng simply made do.
However, it was unnecessary for him to learn another [geomancy] skill; he understood the principle of not biting off more than he could chew.
"Seniors, this way please."
A maidservant slowly emerged, dressed in elegant white, to greet him.
"Of course."
"Please lead the way, young lady."
Lin Changheng and Xu Maoling were both very gentle, exchanged a smile, nodded and followed.
Soon they arrived at the main hall and saw the scene that had been prepared.
It was truly grand.
There were even maids dressed in matching fairy gowns, ready for song and dance.
"Brother Xu, Brother Lin."
A beautiful woman entered from behind with a smile. She wore a light blue flowing cloud-sleeved dress, with a simple green jade hairpin in her hair. Her makeup was elegant, yet she possessed a pure and refined temperament.
Her steps were light, and her aura was as elegant as an immortal. Her cultivation was clearly at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment.
She bowed gracefully to the two of them, her smile gentle: "It's been a long time. How have you been? I just returned from my travels and almost missed our gathering."
"It's alright, it's alright. Of course, the matter at hand is more important. Our gathering can be early or late, it doesn't matter."
Xu Maoling smiled.
"Brother Xu is right, Fairy Cheng can take her time."
Lin Changheng didn't mind either.
Cheng Suling smiled slightly and stepped aside to lead the way, "Fellow Daoists, please take your seats. Let's drink and chat."
The three took their seats, host and guest respectively. Soon, the maids served spirit fruits and fine wines, all of the highest quality.
Accompanied by melodious music, several dancers in flowing robes gracefully entered, dancing elegantly in the hall, their movements a beautiful contrast to the surrounding lake and mountain scenery.
After several rounds of drinks, the atmosphere became increasingly harmonious.
Cheng Suling was poised and refined in her speech, neither overly enthusiastic nor aloof.
She chatted with Xu Maoling about interesting anecdotes around Jade Belt Lake and her experiences cultivating spirit plants, occasionally steering the conversation towards Lin Changheng, asking about his cultivation insights that didn't involve personal matters, or introducing several scenic spots on the lake. She handled the situation with great tact, demonstrating exceptional emotional intelligence and social skills.
When it was time to leave, Lin Changheng and Xu Maoling prepared to take their leave.
"Brother Xu, Brother Lin,"
Cheng Suling suddenly called out to them.
"I wonder if there's anything else, Fairy Cheng?"
Lin Changheng stopped and smiled, and Xu Maoling also looked over.
At that moment, Cheng Suling waved her hand, setting up a soundproof array that enveloped all three of them.
"Hmm?"
Lin Changheng raised an eyebrow. Such a setup must mean something secret or important.
He exchanged a glance with Xu Maoling, then both looked at Cheng Suling, but neither spoke, quietly waiting for her to continue.
"I have an opportunity to share with you two fellow Daoists. I wonder if you'd be interested in participating?"
Cheng Suling smiled gracefully and asked the two of them.
Lin Changheng remained silent, while Xu Maoling cautiously inquired, "What kind of fortuitous encounter? Perhaps you could elaborate?"
Cheng Suling's expression remained unchanged, still bearing that elegant smile, but her voice lowered, sounding even more solemn:
"Do you two know that I was invited to explore water veins near the Ancient Youjiang River in the north? I cannot go into the specifics of the mission, but I discovered a place brimming with spiritual energy, far surpassing other places..." "
I was greatly intrigued, so after completing the mission, I thoroughly investigated it for half a month."
Upon hearing this, Lin Changheng immediately formed a basic guess.
There was likely treasure there!
Moreover, he knew that the Ancient Youjiang River was a major tributary of the great river where the Jiazi Secret Realm had been located.
However, it was not within the territory of the Ziji Sect, but rather ran through the Xuanbing Valley and the Bixiao Sect.
But Lin Changheng did not interrupt or interject, allowing her to continue.
Cheng Suling glanced at the two of them and continued, "This is because deep within this riverbed, there isn't just ordinary water veins, but a hidden [Small Water Eye Spirit Cave]. This is naturally formed, capable of gathering water spiritual energy to nourish its surroundings, making it a treasure trove for water and wood attribute cultivators like us."
Xu Maoling's eyes flashed with surprise upon hearing this, and he nodded slightly. Having cultivated spiritual plants for many years, he had heard of [Water Eye Spirit Caves].
Lin Changheng's gaze flickered, lost in thought.
Cheng Suling changed the subject: "However, deep within that [Water Eye Spirit Cave], there is a nest of rare [Cold Jade Crystal Scorpions]. These scorpions are entirely like cold jade, their stingers containing extremely cold venom, and they particularly enjoy devouring the [Gui Water Essence] condensed at the core of the spirit cave. With them lurking there, not only is it impossible to enter the depths of the spirit cave to explore and obtain the [Gui Water Essence], but the accompanying spiritual plants within are also untouchable." "
[Gui Water Essence]?"
A clear look of astonishment flashed across Xu Maoling's farmer-like face.
"That [Water Eye Spirit Cave] actually has such a thing?"
Although he forced himself to remain calm, Lin Changheng still detected a hint of excitement in his voice.
Lin Changheng had never heard of [Kui Water Essence] before, but he could guess that it was a rare item that should be of great benefit to late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators. Otherwise, why would Xu Maoling have gone to such lengths?
"That's right."
Cheng Suling nodded firmly in confirmation.
"What is the approximate strength of that nest of [Cold Jade Crystal Scorpions]?"
Xu Maoling continued to ask.
"Besides the most numerous first-tier scorpions, there are quite a few early-stage second-tier scorpions, about a dozen, followed by mid-stage second-tier scorpions, at least four, and two late-stage second-tier scorpions."
Cheng Suling's lips parted slightly as she gave a rough estimate.
Seeing the two's confusion, she smiled and said, "This humble woman has some knowledge of geomancy, and by analogy, I can observe from afar and discern some general information." "
The specifics may vary, but not by much."
As she said this, Cheng Suling revealed her confidence and assurance.
"Of course we believe you,"
Xu Maoling said, sounding exceptionally enthusiastic, as if he were truly interested. He then added, "Even if we take action, it won't be easy to take them down, will it?"
Clearly, the number and strength of this swarm of [Frosty Jade Crystal Scorpions] were far too great.
"According to my calculations, three months from now will be the time when the river's water spirit tides are at their calmest, and also the time when the [Frosty Jade Crystal Scorpions] are at their least active. It will be the perfect opportunity to clear them out, seize the [Kui Water Essence], and control the Water Eye Spiritual Cave!"
Her beautiful eyes swept over the two of them, her tone carrying a hint of solemnity. "If it weren't for the considerable size of the scorpion swarm, and the fact that there must be a Scorpion King among them, whose strength is likely no less than that of a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, and that I alone am not capable of handling it, I wouldn't have considered asking you two to join forces. After the matter is accomplished, we will distribute the [Kui Water Essence] according to our contributions, and we can also jointly set up restrictions on the Water Eye Spiritual Cave, sharing the benefits. What do you say?"
Her words clearly explained the distribution of opportunity, risk, and profit.
Xu Maoling stroked his beard, deep in thought, clearly weighing the pros and cons.
The [Kui Water Essence] was a treasure even for a cultivator like him who practiced wood-based techniques; it could purify mana, nourish the soul, and aid in core formation. However, a late-stage second-tier twin scorpion was no easy opponent.
Lin Changheng's mind raced.
He finally reached a conclusion.
…
Amidst the two's regretful gazes, Lin Changheng bowed respectfully, then turned and, guided by a maid, left [Floating Star Island] first.
He was resolute, without hesitation.
"Brother Lin…"
Cheng Suling hadn't expected Lin Changheng to refuse so decisively. Though outwardly calm, she was also taken aback.
"Fairy Cheng, you may not know, but Fellow Daoist Lin is renowned in [Floating Life Immortal City] for his steadiness. He never takes risks, spending most of his time in his cave, never venturing out. No one has any opportunity to take advantage of him…"
Xu Maoling did indeed know some of the reasons.
"I see, then I was being presumptuous."
Cheng Suling looked enlightened.
"I wonder if Fairy Cheng could elaborate a bit more? As for our fellow Daoist, we can find another trustworthy one."
Xu Maoling had no intention of concerning himself with Lin Changheng and asked for more details.
Cheng Suling nodded in agreement and began to provide a preliminary explanation, but she remained tight-lipped about the final location. Xu Maoling knew this and didn't ask.
...
Meanwhile, Lin Changheng, who had flown off the island,
felt extremely calm, completely devoid of any sense of gain or loss.
Although the three island lords were in a defensive alliance, that was all.
Lin Changheng didn't fully trust the two, so he wouldn't go out and join any so-called adventures.
No matter how tempting the benefits, he wouldn't explore anything!
He would only carefully consider the feasibility of those with relationships like Feiyue and Zhaoli.
For others, they wouldn't even be considered.
Besides, he was already involved in the Huang family's clan war, so he couldn't afford to wander around. If he were blocked by the enemy, it would be extremely bad.
As for Xu and Cheng's goal being the [Kui Water Essence], Lin Changheng didn't care or concern himself with it. Before leaving, he even offered his blessings for their success and mentioned that he could purchase the essence blood of the [Cold Jade Crystal Scorpion].
As it was for testing pill formulas and refining elixirs, Lin Changheng offered to buy them all if they could collect them along the way.
Neither of them refused; after all, they were neighbors and would see each other often, so even if cooperation didn't work out, they could still maintain good relations.
...
In the following months, Lin Changheng focused on refining elixirs.
But strangely, after more than a month, Chef Zeng still hadn't shown up.
Lin Changheng even suspected that someone else had followed him and attempted to ambush him, leading to his death.
Nearly another month passed.
Just as Lin Changheng was considering whether to mourn his friend, offer incense, and erect a cenotaph, a streak of light rapidly approached from the horizon.
"Brother Lin, save me!" Lin
Changheng was busy by the lake, having just finished drawing blood from two spirit beasts, when his cry of alarm drew his attention to the unusual situation outside the island.
His divine sense immediately swept out, and the streak of light running ahead was none other than Chef Zeng.
His clothes were tattered, and he bore several wounds, looking utterly disheveled and pale.
However, the two streaks of light following behind him exuded a menacing aura, clearly pursuing Chef Zeng.
Both were at the mid-Foundation Establishment stage, and in their fury, they had likely been chasing him relentlessly.
But for some reason, Chef Zeng, only at the early Foundation Establishment stage, had withstood two mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators without dying, even reaching Jade Belt Lake.
However, the distance between the three streaks of light had already closed considerably.
Seeing the two behind him with fierce expressions, wielding a sword and spear—two spiritual weapons—flying wildly, breaking through his defenses several times, he was about to kill him.