Chapter 116 - lin 4

The once tense relationship

  between the Xue and Zheng families began to subside.

  Even though the two families harbored deep hatred and suffered casualties in their battles, they now began to frequently exchange ideas on how to eliminate the hatred at the grassroots level and even how to rebuild cooperation—

  if it weren't for the intervention of an external force, no one could have imagined this scene.

  However, the creator and driving force behind all of this went to the Zheng family in Golden Flame Valley again. After staying for about an hour, he was respectfully seen off by the Zheng family head and the Grand Elder, and then, with a flick of his sleeve, he vanished into thin air.

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  riding on the spirit boat, traversing the clouds.

  Lin Chang gathered his own magical energy to the late Foundation Establishment level, a habit he had developed during his travels in Song.

  Prematurely revealing his Core Formation cultivation level might save him a lot of trouble, but it would also attract unnecessary attention and speculation.

  Maintaining a low profile in situations where he didn't need to intimidate others was his consistent style.

  His

  original plan was to make a detour to the renowned sword-wielding family in southern Song, the [Wan Jian Yun Family]. Since

  their eldest daughter, Yun Zhi, had invited him as a guest, he decided to go and seek out a sword-wielding inheritance.

  The Yun Family was founded on swordsmanship and possessed a rich collection, likely including numerous second- and even third-tier sword techniques and formations. He had already reached the eighth level of his *Splitting Light and Transforming Shadow Sword Chapter*, with his sword light splitting into twelve swords, totaling nine physical flying swords including his main body and true shadows. This already met the requirements for many advanced sword formations; he simply lacked a suitable sword formation method to integrate and

  elevate them.

  With his existing Core Formation power, and by extending a favor, obtaining a non-core inheritance from this family shouldn't be difficult.

  This was the composure of a Core Formation cultivator.

  As for this "reason," whether it refers to the "reason" of logic or the "reason" of physics, it can be adapted to circumstances, mixed together seamlessly.

  After all, the right to interpret always lies with the one with the bigger fist.

  However, just as Lin Changheng left the Xue family earlier, he happened to overhear several high-ranking members of the Xue family discussing in hushed tones: "The grand auction held once every twenty years in Jishan Immortal City will begin in less than a month. The batch of [Golden-Patterned Iron] that our clan recently mined is of good quality. We should take advantage of the large number of people and high prices at the grand event to transport it and sell it off—"

  "I heard the auction items this time are of extremely high quality, with the final item even including a [Return to Truth Pill]—"

  "Indeed, even the Core Formation cultivators from several surrounding sects have been quite alarmed—"

  Lin Changheng's senses were incredibly sharp; he heard every word of these whispers. The

  [Extreme Mountain Immortal City] Grand Auction!

  His eyes flashed.

  This was the most prestigious auction in the Song Dynasty, far surpassing that of [Floating Life Immortal City].

  Whenever it was held, not only would Core Formation cultivators from various sects and major immortal cities in the Song Dynasty appear, but even cultivators from neighboring countries and the borders of the Jin Dynasty would come to attend.

  The rarity and high quality of its auction items represented the pinnacle of resource circulation in the Song Dynasty's cultivation world.

  It was held only once every twenty years.

  He had wanted to participate and witness it last time, but missed it.

  Later, due to the lingering effects of the Song-Jin War, the auction time was slightly adjusted and has remained unchanged ever since, so Lin Changheng didn't know the exact date.

  Since he happened to be there this time, he naturally had to take a look.

  "The matter of going to the [Wan Jianyun Family]—I'll postpone it for a while longer."

  Lin Changheng made up his mind almost without hesitation.

  His golden core spun slightly, and the vast Five Elements magic power poured into the spirit boat beneath his feet like a river bursting its banks.

  "Whoosh!"

  The azure spirit boat shone brightly, trailing a long tail of light, its speed increasing several times over, transforming into a streak of light, and soaring into the sky towards the Extreme Mountain Immortal City!

  Stepping into the [Extreme Mountain Immortal City] again, Lin Changheng used his true identity and appearance.

  He didn't feel much emotion.

  He had been here twice, but his stays were short each time. There were no traces of his cultivation journey, nor much of his past to recall. To him, this place was merely a larger transit station with more cultivators, not even a place for emotional attachment.

  In terms of the length of time he had cultivated here and the key points of his cultivation journey, it was even less than the [Primordial Immortal City] of the Yuanshan Kingdom.

  However, today's [Extreme Mountain Immortal City] is indeed different from the past.

  It is decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, and cultivators are everywhere.

  From the outer city to the inner city, banners and signs such as "Twentieth Anniversary Grand Gathering" and "Extreme Mountain Grand Auction" can be seen everywhere. Major chambers of commerce, large stores, and even some remote shops that are usually deserted are now crowded with cultivators from all directions.

  The streets were teeming with people, and the air was thick with activity as various flying boats and magical artifacts crisscrossed the streets, creating a lively scene.

  This grand event, held once every twenty years, had become a shared festival for all cultivators throughout the entire Immortal City and its surrounding area.

  Lin Changheng weaved through the crowds, feeling the vibrant atmosphere, and mentally calculated his needs. He first found a reasonably priced inn on the edge of the inner city to settle in.

  "Are you staying alone, fellow Daoist?"

  The manager behind the counter looked up and quoted a price in a formulaic manner.

  Lin Changheng frowned almost imperceptibly; this price was more than three times the usual price.

  "I need a superior room."

  "Alright!" The manager quickly arranged it.

  Lin Changheng put away the room key, thinking to himself: Spend where you should, save where you should. During the auction, this price was considered the going rate; he could tolerate it. After

  settling in, he didn't linger at the inn, turned around, and headed straight for [Liushi Alley].

  Liushi Lane, a market street in the inner city of Jishan Immortal City, is famous for its weapon crafting. The headquarters of the [Liushi Merchant Guild] is located here. This guild mainly deals in weapon crafting materials and finished products, and is well-known in the Immortal City, a leader among medium-sized guilds.

  The lane was indeed crowded with people.

  Lin Changheng strolled through the crowd, but his divine sense had already quietly spread out, accurately locking onto a familiar aura deep in the back hall of the guild.

  At this moment, in the inner hall of the Liushi Merchant Guild

  , a middle-aged man with a round figure and wearing a brocade robe sat in the main seat, calmly instructing two managers who stood before him with their hands bowed and heads lowered, not daring to breathe loudly.

  It was Zhu Fugui.

  Nearly twenty years had passed, and he was no longer the manager who ran around in front of the shop, but had officially entered the decision-making level of the guild. His expression had become more composed and authoritative, obviously indicating that the guild had developed smoothly over the years.

  However, the next moment.

  "Fellow Daoist Zhu, do you have time to meet with me, Lin?"

  A calm, gentle, yet crystal-clear voice pierced his ears, instantly shattering Zhu Fugui's composure and dignity, like a punctured balloon, causing it to vanish without a trace!

  His face changed drastically, his pupils shrinking.

  He instantly realized that this voice—it was that person!

  He didn't even need the other person to identify themselves as "Lin"; how could he forget that unique, slightly warm voice?

  It was him—returning! It was he who had given the advice and provided the cross-border travel ticket—

  the other person's voice sounded calm and composed, without the dejection of defeat or the excitement of a long-awaited reunion—moreover, the other person could pinpoint him so accurately with their divine sense, while he, a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, hadn't even noticed!

  "This—this—this—"

  Zhu Fugui's heart pounded wildly, a torrent of emotions surging within him.

  Shock, disbelief, awe—all coalesced into a guess he himself couldn't believe:

  Brother Lin—he's successfully formed his core?!

  He sprang up from his chair with a whoosh, his sudden movement startling the two stewards who were anxiously awaiting a reprimand, who thought this master was about to vent his anger on them again.

  But Zhu Fugui didn't even glance at them. His round face, adorned with small eyes, forced a dazzling, slightly obsequious smile, and he dashed out—faster than when he was running errands!

  The two stewards stared at each other, dumbfounded.

  "What's wrong with Steward Zhu?!"

  "I don't know—but that change of expression just now was lightning fast! In the blink of an eye, it went from the dead of winter to the height of spring. I feel like I could never learn that in my entire life—"

  "Shh! Didn't you get enough of that earlier? Let's slip away while he's not around!"

  "Yes, yes!"

  The two whispered to each other, reaching a consensus, and were about to make their escape.

  However, as soon as they stepped out of the inner hall, their steps froze in mid-air.

  Because their Steward Zhu, with a beaming smile and fawning eyes, was accompanying a dignified, composed cultivator in a blue robe, walking slowly from the alley entrance towards a luxurious private room deep within the alley that was never easily open to outsiders!

  The two stewards exchanged a glance, both seeing extreme shock and apprehension in each other's eyes.

  Who was this person? How could this person, who had already entered the decision-making level of the Chamber of Commerce, be so obsequious and attentive?

  Could it be—that this person's status is incomparably noble, or that his cultivation level is—unfathomably high?

  Although their hearts were churning with doubt, both managers were astute enough not to exchange a single word with him, pretending not to have seen anything, and hurriedly dispersed to attend to their respective tasks.

  In this situation, feigning ignorance was the best way to protect themselves.

  Inside the luxurious private room, the furnishings were elegant, and the air was filled with the fragrance of incense.

  Zhu Fugui personally prepared the tea, his movements extremely careful. It was the Liushi Chamber of Commerce's prized third-tier spiritual tea, [Cloud Mountain Emerald Ring Fragrance], which was not to be used lightly on ordinary days.

  "Senior Lin, please have some tea."

  Lin Changheng accepted the teacup, a half-smile on his face. "Fellow Daoist Zhu truly possesses discerning eyes. Even before meeting me, you deduced my Core Formation success with just a telepathic message. No wonder you've risen so high in the Flowing Stone Merchant Guild; your insight and judgment are beyond the reach of ordinary people."

  He had just guessed Zhu Fugui's thoughts from his expressions and movements.

  Zhu Fugui was secretly astonished. This Brother Lin had not only made rapid progress in his cultivation, but his keen insight into people's hearts was even greater than before.

  Indeed, no cultivator who could form their Core was easy to deal with; they were either deeply scheming or observant enough to see into people's hearts.   He smiled awkwardly, about to speak.

  "   As for the title 'Senior Lin,' we've known each other for many years; such formality is unnecessary." Lin Changheng put down his teacup, his tone gentle. "As usual, please."   Zhu Fugui was overjoyed! For a Core Formation cultivator to be willing to treat him as an equal and remember their past friendship—what a blessing! He quickly replied, "Hehe, then—I shall dare to continue addressing you as 'Brother Lin'!"   He took a deep breath, filled with emotion, "To be honest, Brother Lin, when we first met outside the Jiazi Secret Realm, I felt that you possessed extraordinary bearing, far from being an ordinary person. That's why I shamelessly approached you to strike up a conversation and become your friend. Now, you have indeed soared to great heights, a fish leaping over the dragon gate—the scene from back then is still vivid in my mind!"   He wasn't just flattering; he genuinely felt this way. Who could have imagined that the Foundation Establishment cultivator with that calm and unwavering aura back then would, decades later, become a high-ranking Core Formation cultivator?   Moreover, the owner of the [Liushi Merchant Guild] he belonged to was merely a pseudo-Core Formation cultivator.   Although he didn't know whether Brother Lin had achieved a true or pseudo-Core Formation, he still held a place in this Song region, and his voice wouldn't be weak.

  Lin Changheng raised his cup and smiled slightly, "You're not bad either. You must have been doing quite well in the Chamber of Commerce these past few years. We're both walking the paths we've chosen, and we've both achieved some success, which is fortunate."

  "Indeed, indeed! Brother Lin is right!" Zhu Fugui was flattered, carefully holding his teacup with both hands, pressing the rim very low so it lightly touched Lin Changheng's.

  The two sipped tea and reminisced in a harmonious atmosphere.

  After chatting for a while, before Lin Changheng could speak, Zhu Fugui asked, "I wonder if there's anything I can help you with since you've come to the Liushi Chamber of Commerce, Brother Lin? I'd do anything to help, even if it costs me my life."

  "Haha, speaking of which, I do happen to have two things I need Fellow Daoist Zhu's help with,"

  Lin Changheng said with a surprised look at Zhu Fugui.

  Zhu Fugui's spirits lifted, and he quickly declared, "Brother Lin, please speak freely! Even if it means breaking my head, I, Zhu, will do my utmost to help!"

  His eyes were sincere as he spoke, and he wasn't entirely lying. The opportunity to establish a connection with a Core Formation True Person was a once-in-a-lifetime chance; if he didn't seize it now, when would he?

  "Haha, then I'll be frank,"

  Lin Changheng said. "Firstly, it concerns the inheritance of weapon crafting. I have already reached the near-second-tier level in weapon crafting, and to advance further, I need to obtain a complete second-tier inheritance, or even the path to a third-tier inheritance. The Liushi Merchant Guild specializes in weapon crafting, so they must have a deep foundation. I wonder if Fellow Daoist Zhu could assist with this?"

  Although Zhu Fugui was surprised, he quickly accepted, nodding vigorously.

  "Secondly,"

  Lin Changheng continued, "I possess some precious demon beast materials that need to be refined into artifacts. However, my own artifact refining skills are still quite rudimentary, far from reaching the third rank. I wonder if your esteemed merchant guild has any highly skilled third-rank artifact refining masters? Or perhaps Fellow Daoist Zhu knows someone reliable who could recommend you?"

  He then looked at Zhu Fugui, awaiting a response.

  Zhu Fugui did not answer immediately, but instead showed a thoughtful expression, his eyes flickering, clearly deep in thought.

  Lin Changheng did not urge him, picking up his teacup and slowly savoring the lingering aftertaste of the third-rank spiritual tea.

  After a moment, Zhu Fugui looked up, having already made up his mind.

  "Brother Lin, I, Zhu, will certainly do my utmost to fulfill your request."

  He stated first, then proceeded clearly, "The first matter concerns the weapon-refining inheritance. I, Zhu, can directly arrange to sell you a second-tier superior-grade weapon-refining inheritance. Moreover—I can arrange two second-tier superior-grade inheritances from different schools for you, and the payment will be made at my highest discount price. Leave this to me."

  He lowered his voice towards the end, with a hint of self-satisfaction.

  A hint of satisfaction flashed in Lin Changheng's eyes, and he nodded, "Very good. What about the third-tier inheritance?"

  Zhu Fugui looked troubled and frankly said, "The third-tier weapon-refining inheritance is the core secret of any merchant guild, family, or sect, and it would never be easily leaked. I, Zhu—truly do not have that authority. This matter needs to be reported to the president of my Liushi Merchant Guild. He is a pseudo-core cultivator and the true owner of the guild. I cannot guarantee whether the president will agree; I can only do my best to mediate and persuade him."

  He paused, then added, "However, although the guild leader is a fake Core Formation cultivator, he is a pure businessman and quite open-minded. If Brother Lin can offer something that appeals to him in exchange, we might be able to discuss it."

  Lin Changheng sensed the sincerity in Zhu Fugui's words and saw no intention of evasion or perfunctory response. He nodded slightly, "This matter is not urgent. A second-tier superior-grade inheritance is enough for me to study and research for some time. As for the third-tier matter, if it succeeds, that would be good. If not, I will seek other methods. I understand the principle of prioritizing and following the proper order."

  "Brother Lin is insightful!"

  Zhu Fugui breathed a sigh of relief, then turned to the second question, "As for the third-tier weapon refiner—"

  He hesitated for a moment, then explained the current situation of his merchant guild: "To be honest, Brother Lin, our Liushi Merchant Guild does indeed have a third-tier weapon refiner in charge. However, this person only recently advanced from the peak of the second tier to the third tier, and his skills are still being honed. He might be able to barely manage to refine some ordinary third-tier artifacts, but to refine truly exquisite artifacts, or even custom artifacts made with high-tier materials, I'm afraid—there is a considerable risk of 'practicing'."

  He subtly implied that having this newcomer refine artifacts might be like being a guinea pig, not worth it.

  Lin Changheng's eyes flickered slightly, but he didn't interrupt, waiting for his "but."

  Zhu Fugui, as expected, changed the subject, lowering his voice even further: "However, I know a senior craftsman, a third-tier weapon-refining master who has long cooperated with my Liushi Chamber of Commerce. His skills are truly profound, and his reputation is universally acknowledged! For lower-grade third-tier artifacts, as long as the materials are available, the quality of his finished products far surpasses that of his peers , reaching the threshold of fine craftsmanship!"

  He sighed: "Unfortunately, Master Zhao is quite old now and has long since become indifferent to worldly possessions, showing no interest in ordinary weapon-refining orders. When he withdrew from our cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce, it really affected many of our high-end orders. Later, the Chairman, relying on our decades-long friendship, persuaded him to agree to refine only the artifacts he chooses." "

  Refine only the artifacts he chooses?"

  Lin Changheng asked in surprise.

  "That's right." Zhu Fugui smiled wryly. "He only considers taking on projects he finds interesting, fun, and challenging. If it's just ordinary, common items, armor, or flying swords—he won't even glance at them and will send them away immediately. Over the years, our chamber of commerce has only managed to get him a few deals—cough, barely enough."

  Lin Changheng, however, didn't show any difficulty. Instead, a glint of interest flashed in his eyes: "Choose your craftsmanship carefully? Such a distinctive personality, truly a master of character. I wonder if Fellow Daoist Zhu could take me to visit this Master Zhao?"

  Zhu Fugui understood the implication immediately. He realized that Lin Changheng must have something truly "interesting" in his possession! Without hesitation, he stood up: "Brother Lin, if you're so kind as to give the order, I'll gladly oblige! Let's go now!"

  He immediately summoned his subordinates, made some arrangements, and then led Lin Changheng out the door.

  "So decisive?"

  Lin Changheng was taken aback, but immediately followed with a smile.

  Indeed, the power of a Core Formation cultivator's identity—it's truly astounding!

  In the inner city, in a relatively secluded area of ​​cultivator cave dwellings,

  Lin Chang followed Zhu Fugui to a rather ordinary courtyard. The courtyard wasn't large, its walls a dusty gray, a stark contrast to the several imposing cave dwellings nearby.

  Zhu Fugui knocked on the door.

  After a moment, the door creaked open.

  It wasn't the old man who opened the door, but a middle-aged, shirtless man. This man was burly, his muscles bulging like iron, his bronze skin stained with obvious sweat and dark burn marks from flames, clearly having just come from a weapon-refining workshop.

  His resolute, rugged face immediately turned strange the moment he recognized Zhu Fugui.

  The shirtless man glanced past Zhu Fugui, then at the green-robed cultivator a step behind him, before looking back at Zhu Fugui, saying irritably, "Come in."

  His voice was rough, but there was no real hostility. Clearly, the two were quite familiar with each other.

  Zhu Fugui was not annoyed at all. He smiled and stepped aside to let Lin Changheng go first, while he quickly moved closer to the man, looking very affectionate.

  The man picked up a damp towel draped over his shoulder and vigorously wiped the sweat from his body, still grumbling, "What kind of junk did that artifact-seeking cultivator you brought last time want to forge?"

  Zhu Fugui scratched his head and grinned shamelessly, "Wasn't it novel enough?"

  The man glared at him and whispered, "Ha, novel! It is quite novel! But those are boudoir sex toys! And—and with those bizarre, utterly shameful shapes!"

  His face twitched, clearly still shaken by the scene of being scolded by his master.

  Zhu Fugui also looked puzzled and quickly explained, "This—I didn't expect it at first! That fake alchemist woman actually had such—cough, peculiar hobbies. How could I dare to ask in detail? I only heard her say she wanted to refine some novel things," and I thought it was some kind of new artifact, so I excitedly took it with me—"

  He paused, unable to resist his gossipy nature, and leaned closer to ask in a low voice, "And then? Did Master Zhao finally—refine it?"

  The shirtless man's face twitched again, and after a moment of silence, he said in a muffled voice, "He did."

  "—Was the woman satisfied?"

  "—Extremely satisfied." The man's voice was even more muffled, as if squeezed out from between his teeth.

  The two looked at each other, then turned their heads away at the same time, their shoulders trembling slightly, desperately trying to suppress their laughter.

  "Cough cough!"

  Inside the room, a steady, slightly aged, but powerful cough exploded in their ears like thunder!

  Zhu Fugui and the shirtless man instantly froze, like quails being choked, their expressions rigid. They stood ramrod straight, pretending nothing had happened.

  Lin Changheng's lips curled slightly, then returned to their usual composure as he turned to look into the house.

  Footsteps clattered, steady and powerful.

  A middle-aged man, dressed in simple gray cloth and with a lean build, slowly emerged from the house. His gaze was calm, first sweeping over Zhu Fugui and the shirtless man with a cold, indifferent look.

  With just that one glance, the two felt goosebumps rise all over their bodies, as if swept by a biting winter wind. His eyes clearly said: If there weren't guests present, I would have given you a good beating today!

  The old man withdrew his gaze and turned to the green-robed cultivator standing quietly in the courtyard.

  His gaze lingered on Lin Changheng for a moment, and his previously calm expression gradually changed.

  This man—his demeanor was as composed as a mountain, his magical power perfectly contained, seemingly only at the Foundation Establishment stage, yet upon closer inspection, he was as unfathomable as a deep abyss! He was no ordinary Core Formation cultivator! What truly

  alarmed the old man was that his divine sense, honed over many years through a special secret technique to possess an extremely keen perception of danger, detected a chillingly dense murderous aura emanating from this green-robed cultivator!

  How many lives must he have taken?!

  The old man instantly made his judgment, his initial intention to maintain a haughty, "master" air and respond coldly vanishing instantly. He forced a long-lost, slightly stiff smile, cupping his hands and saying, "This fellow Daoist possesses extraordinary bearing; I, Zhao, am honored. Please come inside for a detailed discussion."

  "I, Lin, greet Master Zhao. I apologize for the intrusion."

  Lin Changheng returned the greeting with a calm expression, following the old man into the house.

  The door creaked shut in front of Zhu Fugui and his companion.

  In the courtyard, Zhu Fugui and the shirtless man stared at each other, their faces filled with disbelief.

  "Brother—"

  Zhu Fugui swallowed hard, "When has Master Zhao ever been so amiable? And, and smiling? We've known him for decades, and I feel like I've never seen him like this before?"

  The shirtless man also looked like he'd seen a ghost, his tiger eyes wide open: "Don't even mention you, I've been learning from my master for fifty years, and apart from when True Person Cangmu of the Southwest Palace personally came to greet me and showed a smile—this is only the second time!"

  Zhu Fugui was stunned, his mind reeling.

  True Person Cangmu, that was the controller of the Southwest Palace, a powerful late-stage Core Formation cultivator in the Southwest Palace, a veteran expert renowned throughout Song! Brother Lin—could Master Zhao treat him with such respect?

  Zhu Fugui couldn't help but be astonished, muttering to himself, "Brother Lin—is he that powerful, even terrifying?"

  Such a kind person—

  the room was simple and clean.

  The furnishings were all ordinary, except for the towering bronze furnace against the north wall, over ten feet tall, entirely black and marked with the marks of time, along with the various hammers, pliers, anvils, and other tools placed around it, which revealed the true identity of the owner.   The

  host and guest took their seats.   Master Zhao personally poured tea; the tea was fragrant and of superior quality.   After a few pleasantries, when Master Zhao learned that Lin Changheng was not only a Core Formation cultivator but also a highly skilled third-tier alchemist, the surprise on his lean face was hard to conceal, and his attitude became even more enthusiastic.   "Alchemy and artifact crafting are inherently inseparable!"   He stroked his beard with a touch of kinship and admiration in his eyes. "Both alchemy and artifact crafting involve the melting and reshaping of spiritual materials from heaven and earth, requiring a keen perception and absolute control over the heat and the properties of the materials. In my youth, I was also obsessed with alchemy, but unfortunately, my talent was limited, and I was unable to master it. Fellow Daoist Lin, you cultivate both paths at the Core Formation stage and have achieved success in both. I truly admire you!"   Lin Changheng smiled humbly, without refuting.   Although alchemy and artifact crafting are not from the same source, they do share many commonalities in terms of "fire control" and "understanding of materials."   Since the other party had said this, he went along with it, thus narrowing the distance.   The conversation gradually got to the point.   Lin Changheng didn't waste any words and directly took out an item from his storage bag.   It was an irregularly shaped piece of beast hide, its entire surface a deep, dark blue, covered with fine scales. It felt cold and heavy to the touch, emanating a faint, chilling residual power of a dragon.   It was half a scale he had obtained during his trip to Yue Kingdom, from a vital part of the mid-stage third-tier [Azure Scale Serpent Dragon]! This dragon possessed extraordinary bloodline, and its scales were the strongest and most resilient part of its body, making it an excellent material for crafting top-grade inner armor.   He had already given the other half to Bai Hengwan in Floating Life Immortal City as a token of gratitude for her efforts in collecting the material.   Master Zhao's previously calm eyes suddenly flashed with a sharp light the moment he saw the scale!   He abruptly stood up, quickly approaching, but instead of touching it directly, he bent down, his nostrils flaring, his eyes blazing, carefully observing and sniffing.   A moment later, he examined it, his voice filled with barely suppressed amazement and excitement: "This is—a creature resembling a dragon! And its bloodline is extremely close, definitely not an ordinary python or boa constrictor!"   "Judging from its texture, color, and the residual chilling moisture, it should be a water-based demon dragon possessing the bloodline of a dragon! Judging from the thickness and density of its hide, this dragon's cultivation level should be at the mid-stage of the third rank, and—it definitely couldn't be raised in Song!"   He looked at Lin Changheng, his eyes filled with curiosity: "Although there are large marshes in the north of Song, they are not enough to raise such a near-dragon beast. This creature—could it be from the Yue Kingdom in the north?"

  Lin Changheng's expression remained unchanged, his tone calm: "Master Zhao has a good eye. This hide was a gift from a Core Formation cultivator who asked me to refine pills, as payment. I'm not entirely sure of its exact origin. Perhaps, as you say, it truly comes from the Yue Kingdom."

  He didn't tell the truth, keeping his guard up.

  After all, Fang Yuan's hunting of the dragon in the Yue Kingdom wasn't a secret. Although he hadn't succeeded, many people knew about it. If he admitted it came from the Yue Kingdom, there was a very small chance of being linked to it, but this answer would further reduce that chance and add to the mystery.

  Master Zhao, though disappointed, didn't press further. His eyes were only on this rare material.

  "Fellow Daoist Lin, do you intend to—forge it into armor?" he asked.

  "Exactly."

  Lin Changheng nodded. "I would like to ask Master Zhao to use this dragon hide as the main material to forge me a close-fitting inner armor, one that is highly defensive, lightweight, and doesn't hinder movement."

  Master Zhao sat down again, closed his eyes in thought for a moment, and then opened them again.

  "I wonder if Master Zhao would be willing to accept this task?" Lin Changheng asked.

  "Of course, I have never refined such hide before, but rest assured, it won't affect the success rate. I've been itching to refine it myself this time."

  Master Zhao confidently agreed, patting his chest, and immediately described his general ideas, design, and refining methods to Lin Changheng in great detail, clearly demonstrating his extensive knowledge and experience in weapon refining.

  "I'll do as Master Zhao says."

  Lin Changheng understood part of it, but he grasped the key word: the effectiveness of the refining. It

  was expected to withstand several blows from a late-stage Core Formation cultivator.

  Naturally, he was satisfied.

  Master Zhao smiled with satisfaction, carefully placing the hide into a specially made jade box and sealing it.

  After putting away the material, he didn't stop there. After a moment's hesitation, he spoke again.

  "Fellow Daoist Lin, if I may be so bold as to ask, do you possess any other materials from this type of dragon beast? For example, dragon tendons, dragon bones, or even reverse scales?"

  He paused, his eyes filled with hope. "I'm willing to pay far above market price, or barter, or even forge two more artifacts for you free of charge—anything is possible."

  He was truly eager for a bargain.

  Such dragon-like materials with exceptional bloodlines were invaluable treasures for any aspiring craftsman. Missing this opportunity might mean never having another chance in this lifetime.

  Lin Changheng sat upright in his chair, silent for a moment.

  The room was so quiet that the occasional crackling sound from the furnace could be heard. Master Zhao's heart pounded with the silence.

  Just as he thought Lin Changheng was about to refuse, Lin Changheng suddenly raised his eyes, his expression solemn, and said, "I do indeed have a pair of dragon claws that I can give to Master Zhao."

  Master Zhao's pupils widened, and before his surprise could fully bloom, he heard Lin Changheng continue, "At the same time, I have another artifact that urgently needs to be refined. This item is extremely special and precious, and given Master Zhao's standard of 'choosing artifacts carefully,' it can certainly be easily fulfilled. But precisely because of this, I need Master Zhao to make a wide-ranging, vengeful oath, guaranteeing that he will never reveal a single word to anyone. Furthermore, I need to place a tracking mark on you. Only after doing all this can I entrust you with all the details of the artifact and the materials." "

  I wonder, Master Zhao—would you like to give it a try?"

  By the end, Lin Changheng's expression had become quite sinister and eerie in Master Zhao's eyes.

  His actions were partly to protect the secret of the "ancient artifact replica," but also deliberate—he wanted to see if Master Zhao was truly obsessed with the art of artifacts, or if he had other schemes. The other party's reaction to such an almost offensive and demanding condition would determine whether he was worthy of entrusting something truly important.

  Master Zhao was visibly taken aback upon hearing this.

  However, it was only a momentary pause.

  The next instant, his gaunt face showed not a trace of anger or hesitation, but rather a sudden burst of almost fanatical excitement! His old eyes shone with astonishing brightness!

  "A pair of dragon claws! A special and precious artifact!"

  he murmured repeatedly, his hands unconsciously rubbing together, as if he had been injected with double the energy.

  "I agree!"

  The four words were spoken with resounding conviction and utmost decisiveness!

  Without another word, he immediately raised his right hand and swore an oath as Lin Changheng had requested.

  Then, Master Zhao looked up at Lin Changheng, his gaze frank: "The Dao oath has been sworn. Fellow Daoist, you may now place the tracking mark. I will have no complaints."

  Lin Changheng gave him a deep look, and also swore to release his Dao oath. Afterwards, he raised his hand and made a hand seal. A faint, almost imperceptible mark of magical power floated from his fingertip and silently disappeared into Master Zhao's arm.

  "Alright." Lin Changheng nodded, his expression softening.

  Master Zhao was completely oblivious to the tracking device he now carried. He eagerly moved closer, his eyes filled with longing: "Fellow Daoist Lin, the Dao oath has been sworn, and the mark has been placed. Now, could you—take out those dragon claws and let me take a look? Also, what exactly is that artifact you mentioned that needs to be refined?"

  Seeing this, Lin Changheng thought to himself: This time, I've probably really encountered an artifact fanatic. It wasn't pretense, nor was it acting; it was a pure, deep-seated obsession with the art of weapon crafting.

  This was actually a good thing for the collaboration.

  Dealing with a fanatic, as long as you cater to their passions, is often simpler and more reliable than cooperating with a shrewd and calculating person.

  He no longer hesitated, and with a flick of his sleeve

  , a cold, eerie blue light flashed, and a pair of complete, ferocious, and murderous dragon claws appeared out of thin air, hovering between the two.

  "Good! Good! Good!"

  Master Zhao exclaimed repeatedly, reaching out to take them, caressing them meticulously as if they were precious treasures.

  However, just as his mind was completely captivated by the dragon claws, Lin Changheng slowly spoke, his calm words exploding in his ears like a thunderclap: "Master Zhao, the artifact I'm crafting is a replica of an ancient treasure."

  "What?!"

  Master Zhao was struck dumb, frozen in place. He slowly raised his head, looking at Lin Changheng, his eyes wide, his expression shifting from shock to disbelief, and then—ecstasy!

  "Fellow Daoist Lin, you—what did you say? You want me to refine a replica of an ancient treasure?!"

  His expression and tone were exaggerated to the extreme, as if the delicacy before a gourmand had suddenly transformed from braised pork to dragon liver and phoenix marrow.

  He looked down at the dragon claws he had just received, then looked up at Lin Changheng, and suddenly felt that the dragon claws in his hands no longer tasted so good.

  Lin Changheng nodded seriously, confirming, "Absolutely true. This ancient treasure is called the [Dingjiang Pearl]. I have collected all the materials needed for refining it. The blueprints for the replica—I also have them."

  Seeing that Master Zhao was still immersed in the immense shock, he asked warily, "While replicas of ancient treasures are rare, with Master Zhao's experience, you shouldn't be—so excited?"

  "Fellow Daoist Lin, you are unaware!"

  Master Zhao took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing his surging emotions, but the light in his eyes couldn't be hidden. "I was fortunate enough to be entrusted with the task of successfully replicating an ancient treasure before! That experience has benefited me for life, and I even developed a special refining technique that can further enhance the power of the replica!"

  "This technique, I've verified repeatedly, and I believe it possesses considerable universality and applicability, certainly not limited to just one ancient treasure! For years, I've pondered it day and night, dreaming of finding another replica of an ancient treasure to verify and perfect! But—"

  He sighed, full of helplessness, "Ancient treasures themselves are relics from ancient times, extremely rare. Replicas, while not as good as the originals, involve many secret techniques; most weapon refiners might not even encounter one in their entire lives. I've studied this technique for decades, yet I still haven't found a second replica to refine. It's truly unbearable, like a hundred claws scratching at my heart!"

  Lin Changheng's face showed surprise.

  At this moment, Master Zhao suddenly looked up, his gaze towards Lin Changheng burning with almost scorching intensity: "Now, my 'drowsy' state has finally found its 'pillow'—Fellow Daoist Lin! How could I not be happy?

  How could I not be excited?" " How could

  I not exert all my strength to refine this treasure for you, fellow Daoist!"

  He spoke each word with deliberate pause.

  Lin Changheng paused for a moment, then chuckled. No wonder—

  and held nothing back.

  He took out all the items and handed them to Master Zhao.

  After discussing, they agreed to retrieve the inner armor in a month and the ancient treasure replica in six months.

  "I will certainly not fail you," Master Zhao said solemnly, bowing.

  "Thank you for your trouble!"

  Lin Changheng then opened the door and left with Zhu Fugui, satisfied.

  Returning to the [Liushi Merchant Guild], after obtaining two prepared second-tier high-grade weapon-refining inheritances, Lin Changheng departed gracefully.

  Unexpectedly, after the two inheritances corroborated each other and he thoroughly understood parts of them, Lin Changheng's weapon-refining skills naturally broke through to the second tier!

  And the grand auction in [Jishan Immortal City] officially began—

The grand auction of [Extreme Mountain Immortal City] was not a one-day event, but rather three days in total.

  This was because there were simply too many items up for auction.

  Therefore, [Extreme South Palace] would categorize the auction items into different levels for a more tailored approach.

  The first day focused on the needs of Qi Refining cultivators.

  The second day was for Foundation Establishment cultivators, a group that formed the backbone of the Song Dynasty's cultivation world, and the quality of the auction items significantly improved.

  The third day was directly for Pseudo-Core Formation cultivators and those at the Core Formation stage and above.

  Of course, if high-level cultivators had the time and desire, they could also participate in the lower-level auctions.

  In this respect, there was little fairness to speak of, as the cultivation world was absolutely ruled by strength. At the bottom, interests were easily encroached upon and even stripped away. It

  all depended on the whim of high-level cultivators.

  It was incredibly cruel.

  Therefore, for Lin Changheng, all he needed to do was attend the auction on the third day. Moreover, this auction didn't require purchasing any tokens or tickets; after all, there weren't many Core Formation cultivators, and there were plenty of seats available. Besides, it was an extremely prestigious event; simply demonstrating his cultivation level granted entry.

  Alternatively, cultivators could demonstrate sufficient wealth, and after asset verification, even if their cultivation level wasn't high enough, they could still enter.

  While waiting, Lin Changheng wasn't idle.

  He carefully organized and planned his unique methods, talents, and supernatural abilities.

  Having reached the Core Formation stage, he had the ability and strength to make preliminary plans for his future talent system and path, maximizing his power.

  If he couldn't find any demon beast talents, he could also acquire some human techniques to supplement and complete his system.

  He aimed to achieve the ultimate configuration of Dao as bone, Dharma as flesh, strength as tendons, and talent as bloodline.

  He carefully observed:

  he had already seized the spirits of five kinds of miscellaneous mortal bloodlines, and all of them had been transformed.

  This includes the [Fire Crow Treasure Seed] → [Fire Control Divine Power] True Meaning;

  [Green Wood Snake Treasure Seed] → [Poison-Dissolving Demonic Technique]; [Earth Fire Lizard Treasure Seed] → [Fire-Repelling Demonic Technique]; [Wood Puppet Fox Treasure Seed] → [Self-Healing Extraordinary Technique] Triple End; [Mountain Turtle Treasure Seed] → [Earth Escape Demonic Technique].

  The Turbid Fiend Bloodline has completed the transformation of ten types of spirits.

  The Lantern Grass Spirit Seed → True Meaning of the "Glorious Life Divine Power"; the Mountain-Moving Ape Seed → True Meaning of the "Mountain-Carrying Divine Power"—two true meanings of divine powers in total. The rest are demonic arts and demonic endowments:

  The Crimson Crane Seed → "Crimson Mystic Flame"; the Flame-Tailed Fox Seed → "Illusory Appearance and Shape-Shifting Demonic Power";

  the Fire-Tailed Golden Rat Seed → "Limb Hardening Demonic Power"; the Poisonous Fire Bull Seed → "Fire Poison Demonic Power";

  the Jade Horned Snake Seed → "Breath Concealing Demonic Power"; the Three-Legged Fire Fox Seed → "Fire Resistance Demonic Endowment"; the Mysterious Peak Bald Eagle Seed → "Insight Demonic Power"; the Exploding Flame Azure Lion Seed → "Flame Manipulation Demonic Power".

  The Mysterious Spirit Bloodline, through the "Seizing Spirit Transformation":

  the Medicine Spirit Golden Toad Seed → True Meaning of the "Gourd Heaven Divine Power".

  [Azure Wave Spirit Turtle Treasure Seed] → [Longevity Demonic Art]; [Black Armor Earth Turtle Treasure Seed] → [Earth Control Demonic Art];

  [Azure Mist Toad Treasure Seed] → [Illusionary Demonic Art]; [Crimson-Eyed Fire Demon Treasure Seed] → [Divine Blood Curse Demonic Art];

  [Deep Lake Spirit Clam Treasure Seed] → [Spirit-Nourishing Demonic Art]; [Frosty Jade Crystal Scorpion Treasure Seed] → [Water Shadow Stealth Demonic Art];

  [Flame-Tailed Rat Treasure Seed] → [Fire Escape Demonic Art]; [Netherworld Flame Sparrow Treasure Seed] → [Netherworld Ice and Fire]; [Golden Turtle Treasure Seed] → [Gold-Swallowing Demonic Art]; [Forest-Piercing Horned Deer Treasure Seed] → [Wood Escape Demonic Art].

  A total of eleven types of essence blood have been completely completed, including one supernatural power and ten demonic arts.

  There are also the [Eclipse Crow Treasure Seed], which is still in the process of acquiring four levels of [Fire Rebirth Technique]; the

  [Wave-Turning Porcupine Treasure Seed], which has acquired four levels of [Water Control Technique];

  and the [Moonlight Crab Demon], which Su Shuangjiang collected in Yue Kingdom, and the [Candle Shadow Vine Granny], which is likely a Xuanling level creature, which she hunted with Chef Zeng and Miss Huang, have not yet appeared.

  As for the Netherworld-level demon blood treasure seeds, they are still in the initial stage.

  The [Mysterious Fire Spirit Rhinoceros Treasure Seed] has acquired two levels of spirit and now has two small beasts, which have been entrusted to the Xu family for raising, and will need some time.

  The [Wind-Splitting Falcon Treasure Seed] and the [Azure Sky White Tiger Treasure Seed] have each acquired five levels of spirit and are waiting for the transformation into essence blood.

  All of the above are demon beast treasure seeds.

  Especially the [Mysterious Fire Spirit Rhinoceros], which made Lin Chang realize the difficulty of cultivating. This method involves investing time and resources to obtain the essence of demonic beasts, which is less risky and relatively safe.

  In contrast, hunting groups of demonic beasts is different; it is more dangerous, but more efficient. In fact, some special demonic beasts don't even have their own groups, making this method completely unworkable.

  Currently, Lin Changheng has been pondering how to balance the two methods of extracting blood from demonic beasts—one

  that is both dangerous and controllable, and also highly efficient.

  He quickly arrived at a preliminary, not complicated, answer: live blood extraction.

  This saves on the time and resources invested in nurturing the beasts, but it carries the risk of mature demonic beasts going out of control and turning against him. These mature beasts, unlike smaller or spirit beasts, cannot be bound by contracts and may rebel or even commit suicide at any time. Even if this problem is solved, there's still the issue of replenishing their blood.

  This involves the secret methods of beast taming techniques—

  Lin Changheng's primordial seed has absorbed the spirits of the fifth level of [Enlightenment Heavenly Gift] and the fifth level of [Purification Heavenly Gift], undergoing a transformation and obtaining the [Wind Profound Root].

  The second transformation is still underway.

  At this moment, Lin Changheng, who has broken through to the early stage of Core Formation, already has seven drops of essence blood within him

  —

  the progress of extracting spirit from a single drop of essence blood has doubled.

  Furthermore, using his self-created essence blood extraction technique, two drops can be absorbed by the Yuan Cauldron at a time.

  Compared to the initial fourfold increase,

  Lin Changheng scanned the golden phantom of transformation at the center of the Yuan Cauldron, and information appeared:

  [Primal Treasure Seed - Supreme]

  [Spirit Stealing: 547/1000]

  [Transformation: 0/10]

  Progress has exceeded 50%, and it's not far from completing the Spirit Stealing.

  Lin Changheng calculated again and was instantly overjoyed.

  In just nineteen years, he could re-enter the Transformation stage.

  He was nearly 171 years old now, which meant he would be less than 190 years old then!

  110 years faster than the initial estimate of nearly 300 years.

  The acceleration was visible to the naked eye!

  "The caution and prudence in the early stages, the gradual improvement step by step, have made my foundation incredibly solid. With this accumulation, a future soaring to the heavens may be just around the corner—"

  Lin Changheng's eyes shone with anticipation.

  And the supernatural power system he was building was also taking shape.

  Numerous fire-based demonic arts and strange techniques, such as the Flame Manipulation Demonic Art, the two great Demonic Beast Flames,

  and the Mysterious Fire Furnace Demonic Art, are centered around the true meaning of the [Fire Control Divine Power], and these enhance alchemy, weapon crafting, attack, and escape abilities. The body-refining and physical attack methods, centered around the true meaning of the [Mountain Carrying Divine Power], also form a complete

  system of attack and defense.

  The [Mist-Covering Divine Power], which has not yet fully manifested, is centered around techniques like concealment, illusion, and deception, operating under a different logic.

  Currently, Lin Changheng's most powerful attack methods still rely on the two major systems of the [Fire Control Divine Power] and [Mountain Carrying Divine Power]

  , along with his [Natal Magic Treasure]—three paths in total.

  However, currently, the [Fire Control Divine Power] lineage is no longer powerful enough due to the increasing level of opponents. Only recently was the [Dark Blazing Profound Flame] strengthened. If the [Profound Fire Furnace Technique] is fully enhanced to unleash the full power of the three flames fusion, it will become a trump card. The

  [Mountain Carrying Divine Power] lineage, on the other hand, uses force to break through techniques, ensuring one's own survival. With the emergence of the [Gold Devouring Demon Technique]

  , it has also been greatly strengthened.

  But Lin Changheng vaguely feels that in the future, when his vision is broad enough and his accumulation is sufficient, he might be able to create another grand framework, encompassing and including everything, becoming the support point for his unification of all techniques and the unity of all paths!

  But at present, it still seems somewhat ethereal.

  Lin Changheng calmed his mind and entered meditation again.

  The road ahead is long; one step at a time.

  Two days passed in a flash.

  The third day of the auction arrived.

  The auction venue was devoid of the hustle and bustle and overcrowding of the previous two days, replaced by a solemn and quiet atmosphere. Only streaks of incredibly powerful light descended from all parts of the Immortal City, landing on the plaza outside the

  main hall.

  Today was the day of the Core Formation True Immortal.

  Dozens of beautiful female cultivators in uniform lined up to await the arrival of each streak of light. As soon as a streak of light landed, one of them stepped forward, offering a graceful bow and respectfully ushering the distinguished guest into the hall.

  Lin Changheng did not use any light; he leisurely walked from the street, weaving through the crowd, and onto the now rather empty plaza outside the hall.

  It wasn't that Lin Changheng was particularly unconventional; he had already left home at dawn, hands behind his back, like any ordinary wandering cultivator, strolling leisurely along the main street of the Immortal City, purchasing several essential items from reputable large spirit medicine shops.

  For example—

  [Longevity Pill]!

  The Longevity Pill, once auctioned off, is now available in some large shops in the Extreme Mountain Immortal City.

  During this major auction, the price is quite high.

  Lin Changheng directly bought one first-grade and one second-grade genuine Longevity Pill.

  He plans to work backwards to deduce the ingredients and refining method of these two pills,

  using this to refine premium pills for himself and the three Xu family women, and then consume them to extend their lives.

  Moreover, the usage of this pill differs from Lin Changheng's previous estimation; only the first pill taken at each grade is effective.

  In other words, if you take a genuine pill the first time, only that one pill will have an effect; subsequent premium pills will be ineffective.

  The effect is fixed.

  This is not as Lin Changheng had previously speculated, where taking a genuine pill first and then a premium pill would enhance its effect.

  And as it turns out, only the true meaning of the [Life-Giving Divine Power] can achieve this.

  Other cultivators cannot do so.

  This has caused the price of premium pills to rise again.

  Moreover, supply cannot meet demand, and Lin Changheng was unable to buy any.

  Therefore, Lin Changheng planned to deduce and refine it himself.

  With his alchemy skills of pushing himself to the limit before breaking through, there shouldn't be much of a problem.

  "Fellow Daoist, today is an auction for those at the Core Formation level. If your cultivation level is insufficient or your assets are inadequate, you will not be able to enter. Please forgive me."

  Lin Changheng had only taken a few steps in the square when a cultivator from the Immortal City Enforcement Team approached him.

  His attitude was quite good, neither humble nor arrogant, and he did not scold or threaten him.

  Suddenly, he saw the other party's aura shift slightly, and a trace of the overwhelming pressure possessed by a Core Formation True Person, as solid as a mountain, rippled out like water, disappearing as soon as it touched him.

  The cultivator's expression changed drastically, and he hurriedly clasped his hands and bowed, his attitude instantly becoming extremely respectful: "So it is a True Person in person! This junior was blind and rude! Please, True Person!"

  Lin Changheng nodded slightly, his eyes straight ahead, and stepped into the square.

  Immediately, a female cultivator stepped forward with small, quick steps, bowing and leading the way: "Senior, this way please."

  Just then, "Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!"

  Three sharp whooshing sounds rang out almost simultaneously, and three streaks of light, each with a different aura, shot in from two different directions of the Immortal City, landing one after another on the plaza.

  "Eh—"

  Lin Changheng, his back to the newcomers, did not stop walking, but his divine sense had already fully captured the appearances and auras of the three people.

  Then, his eyes flashed slightly.

  Among the three, two were actually acquaintances.

  One of them was none other than Ye Wugui, whom he had dealt with many times before.

  The rogue cultivator Ye Wugui!

  This person had returned to his unassuming woodcutter attire, wearing a coarse cloth robe, straw sandals, and leggings, with a dark face and rough hands, blending into the crowd unnoticed. But his aura was completely different from when he last met him in the Floating Life Immortal City.

  Lin Changheng's perception was extremely sharp, and he knew that he was not a fake Core Formation cultivator, but a true Core Formation cultivator.

  Otherwise, his aura wouldn't be so deep and heavy.

  "I wonder if his hasty departure after I returned the sword token to him when we met in [Floating Life Immortal City] last time was related to his Core Formation?"

  Lin Changheng had a wild guess in his mind.

  Similarly, Lin Changheng also felt Ye Wugui's divine sense quickly sweep over him, naturally not recognizing him.

  After all, he knew "Li Feiyu," and Li Feiyu had committed a "major crime," had a guilty conscience, and dared not show his face again in the short term.

  As for the other person he knew,

  it was Old Monster Wen, a fake Core Formation cultivator, and the head of a medium-sized merchant guild in Immortal City, the [Thousand Spirits Merchant Guild].

  He ran businesses in the upstream and downstream of alchemy.

  He had crossed paths with him before at the medium-sized auction and the high-level cultivator trade fair in Immortal City.

  He anonymously snatched a [Third-Order Low-Grade Pill Dao Inheritance] from him, and later at the high-level cultivator trade fair, he exchanged a [Fine Foundation Establishment Pill] for a remnant of the main ingredient of the [Return to Truth Pill].

  There was competition, but also cooperation.

  However, back then, Lin Changheng's cultivation was only at the late Foundation Establishment stage, and his mindset was primarily cautious.

  Now, his gaze swept over Old Monster Wen, his expression

  as calm as still water. A fake Core Formation cultivator was an insurmountable chasm between him and Old Monster Wen. If he wanted, he could easily kill him right now, without any suspense.

  Accompanying Old Monster Wen was another Core Formation cultivator with a solid aura, undoubtedly a True Core Formation cultivator. The two chatted and laughed, their expressions intimate, their relationship unknown.

  Lin Changheng didn't stop, his steps unwavering, and led by the female cultivator, he stepped into the hall.

  The moment he entered, even with his calm demeanor, his eyes flickered slightly.

  Luxurious.

  This was the most immediate impression, yet it couldn't even begin to describe its grandeur.

  The entire hall could easily accommodate hundreds of people, yet it didn't feel crowded at all. All the partitions, elegant rooms, and private boxes had been removed, replaced by rows of enormous, soft, demon-skin chairs arranged in a staggered fashion throughout the hall.

  It was made from the softest part of the spine of a third-tier demon beast, tanned to a silvery-white luster, and as smooth and warm to the touch as jade; each one was incredibly valuable.

  The soft chairs were large and comfortable, with hidden compartments on the sides of the armrests containing spiritual fruits, fine wines, and spiritual teas—all kept at the optimal temperature by a temperature-controlled array.

  A small spirit-gathering array was placed beside the chairs, its spiritual energy swirling like mist, each breath filled with pure spiritual power.

  The entire hall was brightly lit, yet without a single candle. The dome was inlaid with eighty-one luminous beads, their soft light flowing like moonlight, illuminating the hall as bright as day without being glaring.

  Dozens of beautiful female cultivators moved among the chairs, refilling tea, exchanging fruit, or responding to the cultivators' requests with light, silent, and well-trained movements.

  Lin Changheng withdrew his gaze, his expression unchanged.

  He casually chose a soft chair towards the back, near the exit, and sat down. This spot offered a wide view, allowing him to observe the entire area, and was also convenient for entry and exit—perfect for him.

  Just as he sat down, another figure approached and took a seat on a soft chair not far from him.

  Lin Changheng glanced sideways.

  It was Ye Wugui.

  Their eyes met unintentionally.

  Ye Wugui was slightly taken aback, then a slight smile appeared on his lips, a knowing, composed smile common among rogue cultivators.

  Lin Changheng returned a faint smile, then looked away.

  However, a moment later, he noticed that Ye Wugui was still looking at him, his gaze focused, as if trying to discern something.

  Lin Changheng frowned slightly, his voice coolly rang out: "Fellow Daoist, is there something on my face that makes you so fascinated?"

  Ye Wugui shook his head, his voice slightly apologetic: "I am Ye Wugui, a rogue cultivator, Daoist name Shanqiao. I came from the Ziji Sect. The reason I looked at you a few more times is because you look familiar, as if I've seen you somewhere before—"

  Lin Changheng was surprised. He had completely changed his appearance, yet this guy still recognized him?

  Could it be that Li Feiyu's identity had left a deep impression on this person?

  But Ye Wugui's next sentence immediately dispelled Lin Changheng's doubts: "May I ask—are you the Venerable Wanshou in person?"

  "Oh? I am indeed Wanshou. I don't think I've met Fellow Daoist Shanqiao before, have I?"

  Lin Changheng smiled.

  "We've never met before, but Fellow Daoist Wanshou is renowned. With your third-tier alchemy skills, who in the Floating Life Immortal City and the Purple Extreme Sect doesn't know you? I saw your portrait before,"

  Ye Wugui said truthfully.

  "My portrait?"

  Lin Changheng was taken aback, but everything made sense now.

  Seeing Lin Changheng's expression soften, Ye Wugui revealed his true intention.

  He had a batch of low-grade third-tier pills that urgently needed refining. The materials were all prepared, and he only needed a skilled alchemist with a high success rate to start the process.

  True Person Wanshou had already risen to fame, known for his superb alchemy skills and extremely high success rate. Meeting him today was a pleasant surprise, and he immediately asked Lin Changheng to take on the job.

  Lin Changheng naturally wouldn't refuse a business that was within his grasp.

  When hiring a third-tier alchemist to start the process, it was always 60% to 80% of the pills were of the highest quality.

  The remainder was taken as a commission from the alchemy process.

  This ratio was agreed upon by the alchemist and the person seeking the pill, taking into account the difficulty of the alchemy process.

  The alchemist would also receive a fee for starting the furnace and a complete pill formula.

  It was a three-way benefit.

  The two briefly discussed the types of pills and the estimated difficulty, quickly finalizing the approximate reward ratio. Ye Wugui took out a communication talisman and solemnly handed it to Lin Changheng; Lin Changheng reciprocated with one.

  "Brother Wanshou, I entrust this matter to you," Ye Wugui said, bowing respectfully.

  "Fellow Daoist Shanqiao, you're too kind. I'll let you know when the time comes," Lin Changheng nodded.

  They exchanged tokens, thus sealing the deal. Then they closed their eyes to meditate, awaiting the auction's start.

  However, Lin Changheng didn't truly enter a meditative state.

  His divine sense, like an invisible spiderweb, spread out from his own center, extremely subtle and gentle, taking in each of the Core Formation cultivators entering the hall.

  He actually encountered quite a few Core Formation cultivators he'd met before.

  For example, the Jia surnamed fake Core Formation cultivator who had a grudge against Old Monster Wen on his first visit to Jishan Immortal City, and the Qiu surnamed fake Core Formation cultivator, the leader of another medium-sized merchant guild. There was also the beautiful fake Core Formation cultivator

  who had traded the third-tier body-refining technique, the "Crimson Emperor Fire Body," with Lin Changheng.

  And there were Core Formation cultivators from the five major sects and various aristocratic families. Some were gathered in twos and threes, exchanging messages, while others sat alone in a corner, meditating with their eyes closed.

  Many of them, such as Master Xuanji of the Purple Extreme Sect, Master Wenxuan of the Profound Ice Valley, and Master Lishu of the Azure Cloud Sect, recognized Lin Changheng and came forward to greet him.

  "Fellow Daoist Wanshou, it's a pleasure to see you again. How have you been?"

  "Fellow Daoist Wanshou, your alchemy is profound. I will certainly pay you a visit to learn from you another day."

  "Fellow Daoist Wanshou, since we parted at Floating Life Immortal City, your brilliance has only grown stronger—"

  Lin Changheng rose to return the greetings, neither humble nor overbearing, his words modest.

  This scene, witnessed by many Core Formation cultivators in the hall, immediately sparked speculation. Who was this green-robed cultivator? He was a complete stranger, yet these renowned Core Formation cultivators were all eager to curry favor with him?

  Soon, well-informed individuals whispered the name and deeds of "Master Wanshou" among themselves, and everyone finally understood.

  Just then, a small commotion arose at the hall entrance.

  Lin Changheng looked up.

  A boy with his hair in a topknot, dressed in a bright yellow Daoist robe, and with lips as red as jade and teeth as white as porcelain, walked calmly into the hall with his hands behind his back.

  It was Zhengwang Tongzi!

  He unleashed his full aura; the profound and imposing pressure of a mid-stage Core Formation cultivator, like a towering mountain, permeated the air without restraint. In an instant, more than half the cultivators in the hall felt their breath catch in their throats.

  Many veteran Core Formation cultivators rose to their feet, cupped their hands in greeting, and bowed respectfully.

  "Brother Zhengwang!"

  "Senior Zhengwang!" "

  Many years have passed, Brother Zhengwang's demeanor

  remains as impressive as ever—" Zhengwang Tongzi nodded with an air of maturity, saying, "Having had some free time, I thought I'd come and see if there were any rare treasures at this Song Dynasty's premier auction."

  His youthful face paired with his condescending posture should have been quite comical, but no one present dared to laugh. They all knew that this seemingly childlike Core Formation cultivator possessed unfathomable combat power.

  Thus, many Core Formation cultivators responded in unison.

  Zhengwang Tongzi's gaze slowly swept across the hall, but soon stopped abruptly, for he saw Lin Changheng, who was bowing to him from the corner.

  "Ah! Fellow Daoist Wanshou!"

  The deliberately aloof indifference on his face melted away like ice and snow, instantly blossoming into a joyful smile.

  He strode quickly towards the back of the hall!

  The cultivators in the hall were dumbfounded.

  Zhengwang Tongzi ran up to the green-robed cultivator, tilted his head back, and smiled broadly, completely abandoning his previous air of aloofness.

  "Fellow Daoist Wanshou! You really came! I thought you were too busy to come!"

  Lin Changheng smiled and bowed, "Brother Zhengwang, you're too kind. The [Extreme Mountain Immortal City] Grand Auction is held once every twenty years, how could I, Lin, miss it?"

  "Very good, very good!" Zhengwang Tongzi nodded repeatedly, and actually sat down directly on an empty chair beside him.

  And began to transmit his voice.

  Lin Changheng was taken aback at first, then showed a surprised expression.

  Zhengwang Tongzi continued to transmit his voice, his expression confident, even bowing to Lin Changheng in thanks.

  Lin Changheng quickly returned the bow.

  He saw that the group of Core Formation cultivators secretly observing the scene were completely bewildered.

  However, their understanding of the green-robed True Man was renewed and changed once again; this person seemed to have become even more mysterious and unpredictable.

  Then, Zhengwang Tongzi suddenly turned his head and loudly proclaimed to everyone, "Everyone, let me let you know that although this Fellow Daoist Wanshou is merely a rogue alchemist, he is a distinguished guest of my Qingxia Temple and a close friend of mine, Zhengwang!"

  "If any of you have any grievances against my friend, or seek revenge, you are welcome to come and speak with me! I will stand up for Fellow Daoist Wanshou and settle the score with you all!"

  Although his voice was clear and childlike, the threat was so strong it was almost tangible!

  Strangely,

  not a single one of the many Core Formation cultivators and pseudo-Core Formation practitioners in the hall uttered a dissenting opinion.

  Even the few gazes that had initially held a hint of scrutiny, inquiry, and even disdain for Lin Changheng quickly subsided, replaced by wariness.

  Lin Changheng was also taken aback by Zhengwang Tongzi's words, surprised but not denying them, as they were ultimately beneficial to him.

  Moreover, Zhengwang Tongzi seemed to have a notorious reputation.

  As for what Zhengwang Tongzi had just told him, it wasn't anything else, but rather that several second-tier alchemists from the Qingxia Temple had broken through to the next minor tier after Lin Changheng's sermon. Even the two third-tier alchemist candidates within the sect expressed that they had benefited greatly, taking another step closer to the third tier of alchemy and beginning their secluded cultivation.

  Zhengwang Tongzi and Zhengxin Daoist were naturally overjoyed and spoke with the other Core Formation elders in the temple, receiving unanimous approval. They hoped to establish a more stable and lasting relationship with Lin Changheng.

  At the very least, they would invite him back as a guest again.

  Lin Chang naturally wouldn't deny his contribution, accepting it readily without refusing the other party's kindness.

  Just then, a loud, gruff voice suddenly rang out from outside the door.

  "To have this brat Zheng Wang speak so highly of and defend him, I, Lei, am curious about what kind of person this Fellow Daoist Wanshou is, and what methods he possesses—"

  The voice boomed, enveloped in magical power, like muffled thunder, instantly resounding throughout the entire hall.

  Upon hearing this voice, the expressions of all the cultivators in the hall changed!

  That gruff voice carried a hint of arrogance, a touch of mockery, and above all, undisguised powerful confidence. In this place where Core Formation cultivators gathered, to so brazenly call Zheng Wang a "brat"—there

  were very few like him in the entire Song region.

  Everyone looked towards the entrance.

  A burly cultivator strode in, dressed in a purple robe with lightning patterns. His face was ruddy, and his hair and beard were like silver threads, each strand glistening. In particular, his two long white eyebrows had slightly upturned ends, like two leaping bolts of lightning. It

  was none other than the Azure Cloud Sect's [Purple Lightning True Man], whom Lin Changheng had seen once at the mid-sized auction.

  In the past, this Purple Thunder True Man was only in the mid-stage of Core Formation, possessing unparalleled mastery of both thunder and fire, capable of withstanding a late-stage Core Formation cultivator head-on without injury.

  Now, he has entered the late-stage of Core Formation, and the aura surrounding him is even more powerful.

  The Foolish Child's expression also changed slightly. He carefully examined the True Man several times, then exclaimed as if he had seen a ghost, "Old Ghost Purple Thunder, when did you break through to the late-stage of Core Formation?"

  "Still dare call me an old ghost?"

  Purple Thunder True Man's white eyebrows shot up, glancing sideways at the Foolish Child, a mocking smile like a cat toying with a mouse playing on his lips. The

  Foolish Child gritted his teeth, his face ugly, but he stubbornly refused to change his words.

  Purple Thunder True Man wasn't annoyed. He simply slowly raised three fingers, his tone nonchalant, yet it sent a chill down the spines of all the cultivators present: "If I don't hear you call me 'Brother Purple Thunder' within three breaths, I will suppress this unruly child in front of everyone, then pull down his pants and spank him!"

  He paused, then began counting: "6 '

  You!!!'

  Zhengwang Tongzi's face turned from red to green, then from green to white, his cheeks puffed out, clearly furious. He had treated Zilei Zhenren this way when he had the upper hand before, but now the tables had turned—

  however, under Zilei Zhenren's seemingly amused and confident gaze, he finally deflated.

  In his last breath, he abruptly turned his head away, as if unable to bear the humiliation, squeezing out a reluctant, barely audible voice through clenched teeth: '—Zhengwang——Greetings——Brother Zilei—'

  'Hahaha! Hahahaha—!'

  Zilei Zhenren laughed heartily, his laughter resounding throughout the hall, even causing the luminous beads on the dome to tremble slightly.

  In that laughter, years of pent-up resentment finally dissipated."

  Lin Changheng observed and realized this, and was secretly alarmed. Could it be that this Purple Thunder True Man, who cultivated both thunder and fire, had actually been suppressed by this righteous child when they were of the same level?

  Now, he could only use his higher cultivation level to get revenge?

  At this moment, Lin Changheng fully realized the astonishing strength beneath the righteous child's childlike appearance—

  the righteous child trembled from his laughter, and simply tossed aside his topknot, angrily turning away, no longer looking at that "hateful old face."

  Purple Thunder True Man finished laughing, turned his gaze to Lin Changheng, and looked him up and down. His gaze was sharp as lightning, but there was no hostility, only scrutiny and curiosity.

  "This must be Fellow Daoist Wanshou?"

  Obviously, someone had already revealed his identity through telepathy.

  "That's right, I, Lin, greet Fellow Daoist Purple Thunder."

  Lin Changheng greeted him with a bow, neither humble nor arrogant.

  "Although this rascal Zhengwang is quite annoying, his judgment has always been good, which shows that your alchemy skills are indeed amazing. We can get to know each other better."

  Master Zilei surprisingly smiled, his tone gentle.

  This attitude surprised the Core Formation cultivators present. Everyone knew Master Zilei was known for his fiery temper and intolerance of injustice; his current attitude was quite strange.

  "Yes!"

  Lin Changheng readily agreed.

  At this moment, a female cultivator went up to the auction platform, cleared her throat, and signaled that the auction was about to officially begin.

  "Hmph!" Zhengwang glanced at the annoying Master Zilei again, muttering to himself, tossed his hair back, and turned to find another seat.

  Master Zilei didn't mind, nodded to Lin Changheng again, and walked directly to the most central seat in the hall.

  Lin Changheng lowered his eyes, seemingly unaware of the various gazes—some inquiring, some wary, some curious—casting from all around, and calmly took his seat.

  He knew perfectly well that

  after this commotion, from this day forward, the name "Ten Thousand Longevity True Man" would truly resound throughout the entire Song Dynasty!

  "Clang—!"

  A melodious bell rang out from the depths of the auction hall, echoing across the entire Immortal City.

  The auction officially began.

  Dozens of people sat in the auction hall, yet there was no whispering or conversation; it was remarkably quiet.

  At the front of the hall stood a three-foot-high auction platform, behind which stood a beautiful female cultivator dressed in palace attire.

  Her figure was graceful, and her cultivation was at the Pseudo-Core stage!

  It was none other than an old auction acquaintance Lin Changheng had seen before—[Master Shi]! She had also hosted the last medium-sized auction in the Extreme Mountain Immortal City.

  At that time, she had greatly surprised Lin Changheng, but now he felt she was nothing special.

  However, her voice was melodious, unchanged over the decades, and possessed an inherent allure, easily stirring the emotions of the cultivators present; clearly, it had become even more refined and profound.

  "Fellow Daoists, welcome to the grand auction held once every twenty years in the Extreme Mountain Immortal City!"

  Master Shi's voice was not loud, but it clearly reached everyone's ears. "I am honored to be the host of this auction. The rules are the same as in previous years—the highest bidder wins, settled in spirit stones, and treasures can be used as collateral. No credit will be granted. Anyone who bids maliciously and is unable to pay will bear the consequences themselves."

  She paused, looked around the room, and smiled slightly: "Enough of the pleasantries, now, please present the first item."

  As Master Shi's voice fell, a beautiful young female cultivator gracefully stepped onto the stage with a tray, unveiling the red silk covering it.

  On the tray lay quietly a pair of flying blade embryos, about the size of a palm, entirely azure, shaped like crescent moons, with slightly blunt edges.

  "[Azure Moon Twin Blades Magic Treasure Embryos], a set of two, crafted from deep-sea cold iron mixed with a small amount of Xuanbing refined gold and other precious materials, incomparably sharp, and possessing the special effect of freezing and slowing down enemies. Starting bid: 1800 mid-grade spirit stones! Each bid must be at least 20 mid-grade spirit stones!"

  As soon as the words were spoken, the hall erupted in a cacophony of bidding.

  Lin Changheng sat motionless, sipping his spirit tea, watching the fierce competition with great interest. These magic treasure embryos were of little use to him, but he found the lively atmosphere quite amusing.

  The auction proceeded in full swing, with items either fetching high prices or failing to sell, bringing joy to some and sorrow to others.

  Lin Changheng remained calm and composed, his emotions unwavering.

  Until one day, Master Shi announced, "This next item comes from a Core Formation cultivator who wishes to remain anonymous. It's a treasure he's kept for many years, entrusted to this auction house."

  She picked up an antique bracelet, a meaningful smile on her face. "This item is extraordinary. In my over sixty years of presiding over auctions, this is the first time I've handled such a piece. Please take a look—

  "

  With a flick of her sleeve, a flash of spiritual light appeared, and the antique bracelet instantly emanated an extremely strong spatial fluctuation. It

  was immediately sensed by the divine senses that filled the hall.

  A huge exclamation erupted in the hall!

  "This is—this is—"

  "A spatial treasure?!"

  "Heavens! Someone's actually auctioning a spatial treasure?!"

  It could be said that no one in the entire auction hall could suppress their divine sense anymore; everyone was awestruck by this object!

  Lin Changheng's hand, holding the teacup, paused slightly.

  He raised his eyes, five-colored divine light swirling within them, and his brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.

  A spatial-type ancient treasure, actually appearing at an auction?

  But having possessed incomplete ancient treasures before, he quickly realized something was amiss. This wasn't a genuine spatial-type ancient treasure; it seemed more like—a later-crafted imitation?

  Master Shi waited for the gasps to subside before calmly speaking, "Please don't be hasty, everyone. This item is not a spatial artifact, but a replica of the ancient treasure, the [Heaven-Hiding Bracelet], crafted by a grandmaster of ancient artifact refining with his life's work. It's called the [Small Heaven-Hiding Bracelet]. Although it lacks the mystique of the original, and its space isn't very large—it can't hold many living beings for long, nor can it evolve into its own world—as a mobile storage cave, a portable spiritual field and herb garden, its internal space, the richness of spiritual energy, and the stability of its environment far surpass any similar artifact."

  He paused, then announced the starting price: "One [Small Heaven-Hiding Bracelet], containing ten acres of space. Starting price: three thousand mid-grade spirit stones! Each bid must be at least one hundred mid-grade spirit stones."

  A roar erupted!

  The entire hall was in an uproar!

  The price was high, but no one thought it was outrageous. Even a replica of a spatial artifact was rare enough to tempt any Core Formation cultivator.

  The bidding instantly became fierce.

  "Three thousand one hundred!"

  "I bid three thousand three hundred mid-grade spirit stones!"

  "Three thousand five hundred mid-grade spirit stones!"

  "Four thousand!"

  Bidding cries rose and fell, wave after wave.

  Ye Wugui, standing beside Lin Changheng, was also filled with longing, but clearly short of money, he remained silent.

  It was simply a common trait of "poverty" among rogue cultivators, something Lin Changheng understood all too well.

  Despite the fierce competition, Lin Changheng merely picked up his teacup, took a sip, and remained calm.

  Soon after, he withdrew his gaze, no longer watching the arena.

  He wasn't tempted at all, because he already possessed the true [Gourd Heaven Blessed Land].

  Moreover, it far surpassed this bracelet by a hundredfold.

  Even acquiring the bracelet itself wouldn't compare!

  Of course, this bracelet wasn't entirely useless to Lin Changheng; it could serve as nourishment for the true meaning of the [Gourd Heaven Divine Power].

  However, spending such a high price to absorb it was simply too extravagant.

  However, most Core Formation cultivators, including Lin Changheng, were surprised to find that the [Minor Hidden Heaven Bracelet] was won by a cultivator sitting in a corner.

  Moreover, this cultivator was hidden in a black robe, completely concealing himself.

  This made many Core Formation cultivators with ulterior motives uncomfortable.

  However, they dared not use their divine sense to forcibly investigate, as this would violate the rules of the Southern Palace and the Southern Hall, with serious consequences.

  They could only try to track him down until they reached outside the Immortal City, but this process was too time-consuming, and if the other party was careful, they could easily be exposed, resulting in a very low success rate.

  The others were essentially out of luck with this spatial artifact replica.   But

  the subsequent auction of spiritual materials piqued Lin Changheng's interest.

  There were three types of Five Elements spiritual materials that he needed but had not yet obtained.

  He made substantial bids.