《Clan Immortal Cultivation: I Can See Hints》


 Chapter 1: Lin Shiming

    <h4>Chapter 1: Lin Shiming</h4>


    Zhao Kingdom, Yunzhou, Xing County.


    Within the expanse of Xing County, where the poption was sparse, therey numerous mountains and hills.


    Among these mountains, Fangmu Mountain stood supreme, shrouded in clouds and mist all year round, its height known to all but its peak unseen.


    ...


    At this time, inside a small building within the peak.


    A youth d in a white robe was intently staring at a glowing Spirit Method Array.


    In the center of the arrayy an insect egg the size of a bowl, clearly at the moment of hatching, its surface already covered in cracks.


    Amidst a sh of Spirit Light, with a crack, two scythe-like golden legs burst from the shell.


    Then, a pale golden mantis head emerged.


    "It''s finally hatched!" Lin Shiming was overjoyed.


    What others couldn''t see was a line of text in Lin Shiming''s eyes.


    A benefit exclusive to him as a transmigrator, a prompt he saw daily.


    "Please feed it with First Rank Spirit Water, and you will acquire a Spirit Beast that can grow into a Third Rank, a variant of the Green Winged Mantis, the Golden Winged Mantis."


    Lin Shiming was a transmigrator, a cmitous IT homebody from his previous life, now reborn as the son of Lin Houyuan, the Family Head of the Lin Family in Fangmu Mountain, bearing the seventh rank within his generation''s characters.


    With this transmigration, Lin Shiming was quite satisfied. Aside from his lineage and status, just being able to see the system prompts made him believe that Immortal Cultivation was within reach.


    And it was precisely because he could see these prompts that he had purchased this half-dead egg from a stall in the market, spending ten Spirit Stones on it.


    It should be known that the Lin Family of Fangmu Mountain, as one of Yunzhou''s Foundation Establishment families, currently only had one Foundation Establishment great cultivator.


    An egg capable of nurturing a Third Rank Demonic Insect, even if put up at Yunzhou''s grand auction, would fetch a sky-high price beyond the Lin Family''s wildest dreams.


    Normally, aside from their wings bearing a thinyer of pale golden color, Green Winged Mantises appeared mostly in a regr green hue.


    But the Golden Winged Mantis before him had not only its wings fully covered in gold, its entire body too was resplendent with golden color.


    Especially those forelegs, as dazzling as gold, with exceptionallyrge sickle teeth, looking extremely sharp.


    The mantis was also about twice the size of a normal Green Winged Mantis, having just hatched and already the size of a baby.


    "Squeak!" The Golden Winged Mantis pped its wings and flew onto Lin Shiming''s shoulder, rubbing his pale golden triangr head against Lin Shiming incessantly.


    Before the egg had hatched, Lin Shiming had used his own essence blood toy down a Blood Covenant Array secret technique, also nurturing the Spirit Insect with Spiritual Energy.


    The Golden Winged Mantis naturally regarded Lin Shiming as its parent.


    Suppressing his tion, Lin Shiming took out a Jade Bowl from his Storage Bag, then cautiously extracted a Jade Bottle and painfully poured a full bowl of First Rank Spirit Water into it.


    This First Rank Spirit Water came from the Green Lotus Spirit Spring behind Fangmu Mountain. As the son of the Family Head, Lin Shiming could only obtain one jin of Spirit Water every six months.


    Yet, this single jin of Spirit Water could be sold for over ten Spirit Stones. Ingesting a bowl''s worth could substitute for half a month of arduous cultivation for an Immortal Cultivator.


    The Spirit Stones surrounding the Spirit Method Array dimmed at this moment, having exhausted their potency.


    "Grow quickly!" Lin Shiming couldn''t resist rubbing the mantis''s head, his eyes full of anticipation.


    "Squeak squeak!" In the blink of an eye, the Jade Bowl was empty, and the Golden Winged Mantis smacked its lips, looking up at Lin Shiming.


    Clearly, one bowl of Spirit Water wasn''t enough!


    Lin Shiming once again took out the Jade Bottle from his Storage Bag with pained reluctance, refilling the Jade Bowl.


    After three times, almost consuming a full jin, the Golden Winged Mantis finallyy content on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, closing its eyes, resting peacefully.


    Lin Shiming took out a Spirit Beast Bag and ced the mantis inside.


    After his excitement had passed, he couldn''t help but start contemting his future path of cultivation.


    The Golden Winged Mantis consumed so much, needing even more cultivation resources than he did himself, which troubled him greatly.


    His own Spirit Root was a Third Spirit Root with the attributes of metal, wood, and fire, which was not considered good among Immortal Cultivation aptitudes, and required tremendous resources.


    The Lin Family was just a Foundation Establishment family, and with his Qi Cultivation at the fifth level, he could only receive 2 Spirit Stones per month. Including the Spirit Water every six months and three jin of Spirit Rice monthly, that totaled to roughly forty Spirit Stones in half a year.


    The reason he had been living sofortably until now was due to being able to see prompts, which made cultivating Spirit nts quite effortless, apart from asional rewards from his father as well.


    The system prompts weren''t miracle workers; the ones he saw every day mostly dealt with how to solve issues with spirit nts or cultivation techniques.


    A minority of the prompts indicated that a third-rank spirit nt had matured in the mountain''s herb garden, suggesting he could harvest a third-rank Lingzhi mushroom if he went there.


    Or that there was a third-rank treasure on the mountain, which could be obtained by breaking an array at night.


    Lin Shiming, faced with such prompts, could only respond with speechlessness and resignation.


    The best prompt was when he followed a family elder to the market to deliver spirit materials and bought the egg of a Golden Winged Mantis.


    As for other times, Fangmu Mountain forbade Lin Family disciples under the age of twenty from descending the mountain, so there were no prompts about the mountain''s base.


    After securing the egg, Lin Shiming resumed his cultivation in his room. The pursuit of immortality was all about persistence, and his talents didn''t allow for the slightest ckness.


    Lin Shiming cultivated the Lin Family''s inherited cultivation technique, the Yellow Grade Superior Rank Qing Mu Art, associated with the wood attribute and capable of being cultivated up to the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    The Qing Mu Art wasn''t a fast cultivation method and didn''t offer much advantage inbat, but its steady progression and solid foundation often led to surprising effects during major breakthroughs.


    After each cycle of the Minor and Grand Circtions, Lin Shiming felt refreshed and spirited, as if all the magical power in his body was leaping with joy!


    It was then that a red streak shot across the sky, and a Sound Transmission Talisman came whizzing through the air.


    "Shiming,e to the council hall immediately!"


    ...


    The council hall was located halfway up Fangmu Mountain, facing south from the north, with an excellent view.


    As a ce for the Lin Family to discuss matters, assign tasks, and entertain guests from outside, the entire hall was constructed from marble. Skilled craftsmen were employed in its creation, giving the hall an imposing and grand atmosphere.


    Entering the hall, two middle-aged men were in conversation, their brows showing a touch of solemnity.


    The younger-looking of the two was Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Hou Yuan, while the other robust man was Lin Shiming''s great-grandfather and the Lin Family''s Great Elder, a powerhouse in body cultivation, Lin Yu Qing.


    Yes, despite resembling Lin Hou Yuan with middle-aged features, Lin Yu Qing was actually in his nies.


    For cultivators in the Qi Refinement Realm, it wasmon to live around 120 years and maintain a youthful appearance with just a bit of spiritual power.


    If desired, one could even retain the appearance of a child. Of course, most elders in the Lin Family also chose a middle-aged appearance to maintain their dignity without seeming too old.


    "Greetings, Father, Great Grandfather!" Lin Shiming hurriedly stepped forward and paid his respects, holding considerable admiration for these two elders.


    "Shiming, you''ve arrived. Good, good, the fifth level of Qi Cultivation at only seventeen years of age!" Lin Yu Qing clearly didn''t expect that with a Third Spirit Root talent, Lin Shiming would reach the fifth level of Qi Cultivation in just nine years; this pace was on par with dual-spirit-root geniuses.


    Beyond his surprise, a hint of skepticism also crossed his face.


    "Great Grandfather jests, it''s all thanks to the family''s support that your nephew has reached his current level of cultivation."


    "Excellent, humble and polite, and diligent in cultivation, Family Head, what a fine son you have!" Lin Yu Qing couldn''t stop praising, bringing great joy to Lin Hou Yuan.


    "Family Head, since Shiming''s cultivation progress isparable to Shijie''s, about that matter of guarding Qingtao Mountain..." Lin Yu Qing spoke again.


    At that, Lin Hou Yuan hesitated. Qingtao Mountain backed onto the Qingyun mountain range, which was infested with fierce wild beasts, and there were even cases when demonic beasts roamed out from the Qingyun range.


    Especially now, with the second-rank, inferior-grade Spirit Peach Tree on Qingtao Mountain nearing maturity, it was highly likely to attract birds and demonic beasts.


    Lin Hou Yuan originally didn''t want his son to descend the mountain prematurely and guard such a dangerous ce. However, Lin Shiming had taken the initiative to ask him several times about taking up guard duty earlier.


    Thetter''s conviction to contribute to the family had touched him, and indeed, the family didck sufficient manpower.


    But now it seemed his son was talented enough, diligently focusing on cultivation without being mired in worldly matters was the greatest contribution he could make to the family.


    "Father, Great Grandfather, Shiming is willing to take up the guard duty!" Lin Shiming, hearing about the task of guarding Qingtao Mountain, immediately became excited.


    This was precisely what he wanted. Merely possessing a hint-giving system while confined to Fangmu Mountain, unable to ess those clearly untouchable resources, had long made him dissatisfied.


    He had seen all the treasures of the old n head in the system''s hints, but what good was that? He couldn''t possibly steal them.


    Now that he had an opportunity to venture outside, he naturally wanted to seize it; Qingtao Mountain might be dangerous, but with the hints, he could anticipate hazards in advance.


    "Father, my recent cultivation has also reached a bottleneck, and I need to gain experience in the outside world!" Urging his hesitant elders, Lin Shiming added eagerly.


    "Very well, but before you go to Qingtao Mountain, head to the family vault to collect a second-rank superior-grade attack talisman and a superior-grade defense talisman! This is the family''s advance on your contribution value." Seeing Lin Shiming''s firmness, Lin Hou Yuan didn''t want to say much, but as the Family Head, he could still secure some benefits for his son who was about to undertake guard duty.


    "Additionally, fetch ten jin of Spirit Water and fifty jin of Spirit Rice. Put it on my ount!" Lin Yu Qing also chimed in, increasingly pleased with Lin Shiming.


    If the family members were all like Shiming in their mindset, why wouldn''t the Lin Family thrive?

 Chapter 2 - 2 New Spirit Peach Tree

    <h4>Chapter 2: New Spirit Peach Tree</h4>


    Qingtao Mountain is located directly north of Fangmu Mountain; the mountain is not high, but it''s covered with green peach trees. Come springtime, a gentle breeze flutters through, causing peach blossoms to dance across the hills as if it were a peach blossom fairnd, beautiful beyond measure.


    At the mountain''s peak, there stands a centennial Spirit Peach Tree, from which Qingtao Mountain derives its name.


    The Spirit Peach Tree flowers annually and bears fruit every three years, producing anywhere from ten to a hundred peaches in one go.


    These Spirit Peaches are akin to Spirit Water and other such Spiritual Objects, offering excellent benefits to cultivation. A single Spirit Peach is worth five or six Spirit Stones, and if two hundred peaches are harvested, the yield is a thousand Spirit Stones¡ªan impressive sum for the entire Lin Family.


    And to think that for an average Qi Cultivation middle-stage cultivator of the Lin Family, the annual sry is only twenty Spirit Stones, even less for beginners who earn just five a year, and only fifty per year for those in theter stages.


    It has been over two years since thest maturation of the Spirit Peaches; this year''s harvest is assured.


    Of course, as the protector of Qingtao Mountain, another responsibility is to provide protection for the town of Qingtao at the mountain''s base, eliminating any Demonic Beasts that cause trouble or violence.


    By the time Lin Shiming arrived at Qingtao Mountain, it was already the third day since his meeting with Lin Houyuan. After leaving the Council Hall, he had gone to the family''s Contribution Hall to collect two Spirit Talismans, ten jin of Spirit Water, and fifty jin of Spirit Rice.


    In addition, he exchanged all his Spirit Stone sry for the next three years for Spirit Water, exchanging seventy-two Spirit Stones at the internal rate for seven jin of Spirit Water.


    These provisions were the preferred diet of the Golden Winged Mantis and could also asionally serve as his own cultivation materials.


    The two Spirit Talismans were the Water Shield Technique and the Golden Sword Technique, both Second Rank Superior Grade. Used cleverly, they could even be effective against cultivators in thete Qi Cultivation stage.


    Beyond the talismans, Lin Houyuan also slipped him a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Green Spirit Sword.


    With his own savings, including six or seven Intermediate Grade Spirit Talismans, this journey was bound to be foolproof.


    Qingtao Mountain was in early spring, with green buds sprouting pink flowers, some of which couldn''t wait to bloom, filling the air with their fragrance.


    Hills after hills of peach blossoms filled Lin Shiming''s eyes.


    Such a scene would inspire poetry if not for the limitations of talent!


    Lin Shiming first took a flying sword to the town hall of Qingtao Town at the base of the mountain to inform the town head, a congenital martial artist named Lin Yang, of his arrival.


    As per tradition, he handed Lin Yang amunication Spirit Talisman, the simplest kind of talisman that only needed to be lit to send a message.


    After grasping enough information about the town, Lin Shiming resumed flying with his sword, heading straight to the top of Qingtao Mountain.


    Peach Blossom Mountain''s peak was surprisingly t, with even denser peach trees all blooming in pink.


    Of course, if one thinks this pink beauty is purely scenic, they are bound to take a great tumble.


    Atop Qingtao Mountain lies a Three Profound Peach Blossom Formation, personallyid out by Lin Yushui, the Fourth Elder of the Lin Family, and it is a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Formation.


    This formation, built around the Spirit Peach Tree, can draw upon the Spiritual Power of the Spirit Peaches in times of crisis, forming a grand killing Formation with both Illusion Techniques and offensive capabilities!


    Lin Shiming took out amunication talisman and sent it into the Formation.


    Shortly after, the falling peach blossoms ceased, the scene frozen in time.


    Then, the peach trees began to align as if forming an honor guard, creating a pathway wide enough to amodate ten people walking side by side.


    "Shiming, aren''t you not yet twenty? Why has the family sent you here?" came a hearty voice as a middle-aged man in a Taoist robe strode forward.


    "Uncle Thirteen, Shiming isn''t a child anymore, it''s time I contributed to the family," Lin Shiming replied with a smile.


    The man before him was Lin Shiming''s Uncle Thirteen, Lin Houwei, a Seventh Layer Qi Cultivation practitioner and member of the family''s Demon Hunting Team.


    The previous Qingtao Mountain members had perished, and with the Spirit Peaches nearing maturity, Lin Houwei had no choice but toe and guard for a while.


    But ate-stage family cultivator''s time couldn''t be wasted here forever.


    Moreover, Lin Houwei was still a Qi Cultivationte-stage cultivator with extremely strongbat spell capabilities.


    Since childhood, Lin Shiming had nevercked experience in spellbat from this uncle of his.


    "That''s right, you''ve always been exceptionally perceptive since you were young, practicing various basic spells even better than some old-timers."


    asionally guided by the system prompts, Lin Shiming indeed demonstrated remarkable talent in spellcasting.


    "Alright, Shiming, now that you''vee, I must go, the Demon Hunting Team is very busy at the moment."


    "Uncle Thirteen, are you sure you won''t stay for a chat? I''ve brought a sk of Qingtao Spiritual Wine with me!" Lin Shiming knew his Uncle Thirteen was a notorious drinker, so he had deliberately brought a sk of Qingtao Spiritual Wine when he left the family.


    This Spiritual Wine was made from the Lin Family''s Spirit Water and Qingtao, a signature beverage of the Lin Family''s tavern, costing twenty Spirit Stones for a small sk.


    "Haha, I''ll take the wine, but I won''t stay," said Lin Houwei as he took the sk, uncorked it, and downed it in one gulp.


    While drinking, he murmured to himself that Shiming really understood him.


    After gulping it down, his face instantly lit up with a flush of pleasure.


    He closed his eyes, shook his head, clearly intoxicated.


    "You need to work harder, my boy. In three years, the Qingxuan Sect will sell the Foundation Establishment Pills, and this time, even if it costs a hundred thousand Spirit Stones, our Lin Family must seize one!"


    "Both your father and your fifth uncle are candidates for Foundation Establishment, which will be discussed based on family contributions," Lin Houwei said before handing over the formation g and the usage Jade Slip to Lin Shiming, then without looking back, flew into the sky.


    Before long, he had vanished from sight.


    Lin Shiming was left standing there, pondering these words. He knew very well that despite the current calm in the Lin Family, what lurked beneath was a storm of endless vehemence.


    The family''s old patriarch and Supreme Elder, Lin Xianzhi, had sustained serious injuries. Though he was only 150 years old, far from the age limit of 250 years,


    his wounds from over the years had not healed, and rumors had already spread far and wide.


    The Lin Family needed a new Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    At this moment, Lin Shiming thought a lot, including about his father and his fifth uncle. When he eventually considered that he was still just a Qi Cultivation fifthyer cultivator, he scoffed at himself a few times and then put it aside.


    He then began to carefully inspect the formation g and the Jade Slip in his hands. Injecting spiritual power into the Jade Slip, he could instantly grasp the knowledge within, which was also a magical recording tool unique to cultivators.


    The technique of controlling the formation g was notplicated, and Lin Shiming had already mastered it proficiently within half an hour, leaving his Divine Sense within the formation g.


    Now, even if ate-stage Qi Cultivation cultivator were toe, Lin Shiming was confident that relying on the formation and his many trump cards, he could face the challenge.


    "Please patrol all Spirit Peach Trees, you will discover a new Second Rank Spirit Peach Tree that''s about to bear fruit!"


    Just then, the system''s prompt arrived, instantly invigorating Lin Shiming!


    A new Spirit Peach Tree!


    One that''s about to bear fruit!


    This system prompt gave Lin Shiming a huge surprise on the first day.


    When a Spirit Peach Tree bore fruit, even if it only produced twenty peaches, that amounted to a hundred Spirit Stones,


    but aside from the wastnds deficient in Spiritual Energy, a Spirit Peach Tree could yield at least fifty fruits.


    Even if handed over to the family, they would grant Lin a thirty percent reward, which was still a substantial gain.


    For Lin Shiming, who now needed to provide for both himself and the Golden Winged Mantis, this was undoubtedly fantastic news.

 Chapter 3: Slaying the Demon Monkey

    <h4>Chapter 3: ying the Demon Monkey</h4>


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate to activate the entire Three Profound Qingtao Formation, allowing the mountaintop to be covered with peach blossoms once again, while he himself rode the Flying Sword, releasing his Divine Sense toward Qingtao Mountain in search of the Spirit Peach Tree.


    Compared to ordinary peach trees, the Spirit Peach Tree wasrger and imbued with Spiritual Energy, which might not be easy for mortals to discern, but for cultivators, with the sensing of Spiritual Power, the difference between an ordinary tree and a Spirit Tree was apparent at a nce.


    After aplete search, Lin Shiming''s expression grew noticeably gloomier, for although Qingtao Mountain had many peach trees, it was notrge; yet he had not found the Spirit Peach Tree after circling around.


    However, he soon came to terms with it, for if the Spirit Peach Tree had been on the mountain, his uncle, who was extremely experienced in the wilderness, would have surely discovered it.


    It wasn''t his turn yet.


    Lin Shiming was not discouraged, the system prompt was to inspect all the peach trees, so Lin Shiming continued patiently searching around Qingtao Mountain.


    By the time the sun set, Lin Shiming had still not found the Spirit Peach Tree.


    The peach blossoms covering the mountains, in his eyes, no longer possessed their former beauty, but rather caused him a hint of irritation.


    Hss!


    Suddenly, Lin Shiming took out a Spirit Talisman from his Storage Bag, and as the talisman burned to ashes in mid-air, it transformed into a beam of light and flew towards Qingtao Town.


    "Trouble on the first day?" Lin Shiming was somewhat speechless. He did not find the Spirit Peach, but instead, issues arose in Qingtao Town first.


    Though he was annoyed, Lin Shiming knew well that mortals were the foundation of the family; despite Qingtao Town having only tens of thousands of residents, every five years, usually a few cultivators with Spirit Roots emerged.


    Riding the sword towards the ming talisman paper, he vanished into the horizon in the blink of an eye.


    Arriving at Qingtao Town, the elder named Lin Yang, along with a group of men and women dressed in coarse hemp garments, immediately knelt down towards Lin Shiming.


    "Immortal Master, there''s a demon monkey, a huge one, two to three meters tall! Incredibly strong and ferociously fierce!"


    "We implore the Immortal Master to lend a hand, to save all the townsfolk, young and old. The entire town of Qingtao will be at your service, willing to do anything!"


    "Tell me where the demon monkey is and what the losses are," Lin Shiming said with a steely expression.


    "Master Immortal, the demon monkey is in the north of the town, three li away on the old peach tree at Da Niu''s house!"


    "Da Niu was assaulted by that demon monkey as soon as he opened his door this morning, he was thrown to the ground and vomited blood, a lot of it; he''s still unconscious. Thankfully, Er Niu was quick-witted and managed to escape with Da Niu and his family while the monkey rested. Otherwise, I don''t dare to think of the oue."


    "Oh, you mean on the peach tree?" Lin Shiming''s eyes suddenly brightened, feeling that his efforts had not been in vain.


    The Demonic Beast monkey upying the peach tree and driving people away was obviously the Spirit Peach Tree that Lin Shiming had been earnestly seeking!


    "Yes! The unlucky peach tree at Da Niu''s ce! It''s been two years, a tree that only flowers but bears no fruit!" Lin Yang added.


    "We''ve been urging Da Niu to cut it down, but he wouldn''t listen!" a well-intentioned person from the side interjected earnestly.


    Having heard the description that seemed to mean the tree only flowered annually and bore fruit every three years, Lin Shiming waspletely convinced of the authenticity of the Spirit Peach and also attained a general understanding of the strength of the demon monkey.


    Yet he could not help but cast another look at the so-called well-intentioned person, thankful that it wasn''t this person''s tree. Then, he spoke indifferently.


    "All right, I''ve understood. Lead the way, and I will deal with that demon monkey right now!"


    "I lead... the way...?"


    "Wang Mazhu, what are you hesitating for? When the Immortal Master asks you to lead the way, just lead the way. The Immortal Master is skilled in magical arts with matchless divine skills, how can he not handle a mere demon monkey?" Lin Yang scolded from the side.


    "Yes, Immortal Master!"


    Lin Shiming, unconcerned at the side, took out his Flying Sword, and with a slight cast of a spell, it transformed into a three-meter-long giant sword.


    Its chilling gleam waspelling, and a flicker of sword light could be seen.


    In an instant, the mortals looked on as if they were witnessing a heavenly deity, the admiration in their eyes shooting sky-high.


    "Come up!" Lin Shiming instructed Wang Mazhu to get on the sword and lead the way.


    Wang Mazhu scrambled onto the Flying Sword, clinging to it as if his life depended on it, much to the speechlessness of Lin Shiming. After being reminded that a Spirit Method protected him, and that he could stand up freely, Wang Mazhu eventually stood up with a ttering smile.


    For Lin Shiming, three li was merely a matter of one or two minutes.


    Soon, a few modest houses and a small hill came into view.


    In front of one house stood a magnificent peach tree, its pink blossoms swaying in the wind but not a single one had bloomed or fallen.


    Lin Shiming recognized at once that it was a Spirit Peach Tree ready to bear fruit.


    "Immortal Master, Big Niu''s house is up ahead, and the demon monkey is on the peach tree," Wang Mazhu added quietly beside him.


    Lin Shiming looked intently and saw sure enough, in arge fork of the peach tree, a two to three meters tall yellow-furred demon monkey was lying there in a very rxed pose.


    It was holding an unknown fruit and looked utterly content.


    However, upon seeing Lin Shiming approach on his Flying Sword, the demon monkey instantly sprang up, its long arms hugging the tree trunk, fur bristling, baring its teeth and hissing madly at Lin Shiming.


    "What an enjoyment-loving Second Rank Intermediate Grade yellow-furred demon monkey!" After confirming that the Spirit Beast was not a Second Rank Superior Grade Demonic Beast, Lin Shiming waved for Wang Mazhu to leave.


    The strength of a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast was equivalent to the mid-stage of Qi Cultivation.


    With a Magic Artifact and Spirit Talismans at his disposal, he was naturally not afraid.


    He took out several Intermediate Grade Spirit Talismans from his chest, holding them in the palm of his hand, ready to activate at any moment.


    At the same time, his other hand quickly formed seals, and a Second Rank Flying Sword instantly soared, shing toward the yellow-furred demon monkey.


    The demon monkey''s wide mouth became even more ferocious and terrifying, screeching as it leaped high, dodging the Flying Sword and fiercely grabbing towards Lin Shiming.


    The distance of dozens of meters seemed to vanish in a sh.


    "Well done!" Lin Shiming was worried about damaging the Spirit Peach Tree, so his Flying Sword made a swift return strike.


    But the demon monkey was too agile, it dodged again with a swift leap and grabbed towards Lin Shiming, a Golden Shield Talisman then exploded, blocking the w attack.


    Lin Shiming was rmed and quickly retreated dozens of meters to create distance.


    At the same time, he tossed out a handful of seeds from his hand and then quickly formed a spell,


    "Wood Vine Technique!"


    The Wood Vine Technique was Lin Shiming''s best low-level spell, capable of almost instantaneous casting and boosted by the Qing Mu Art. It had been quite troublesome for his uncle Lin Houwei during sparring sessions.


    With Lin Shiming''s shout, countless seeds sprouted, turning into colossal wooden vines that wrapped towards the demon monkey.


    The demon monkey wanted to dodge again, but couldn''t escape the sheer number of vines that hindered its speed.


    It could only rage in frustration, its long arms iling wildly.


    Following that, Lin Shiming threw out a prepared Second Rank Intermediate Grade Fireball Talisman towards the demon monkey, which exploded upon impact, covering the monkey in blood, its roars incessant.


    Yet, this was not the end. Lin Shiming''s Flying Sword had already charged forward, delivering a direct sword strike.


    A monkey''s head flew high into the air, and thus the demon monkey met its death.


    After a series of attacks, Lin Shiming''splexion had slightly changed. Both the Wood Vine Technique and Sword Flight consumed a significant amount of Spiritual Energy, and together the consumption was considerable.


    If it weren''t for the Spirit Talismans he had prepared, the situation could have been dangerous.


    Lin Shiming took out a Spirit Stone and began to recover his Spiritual Energy while also releasing the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The demon monkey only being at the Second Rank and without a Demon Core, only its ws and fur were valuable while the rest could be used as blood food for the mantis.


    The blood of a Demonic Beast could not only stimte the mantis''s ferocity but also elerate its growth.


    "Immortal Master, you are truly amazing," Wang Mazhu then came running over, all smiles.


    "Prepare a room for me where I won''t be disturbed. I need to meditate for a while!" Lin Shiming ordered, storing most of the demon monkey''s corpse into his Storage Bag, leaving only arge monkey leg for the mantis to gnaw on.


    "Yes, Immortal Master!" Wang Mazhu went to prepare immediately.


    Lin Shiming first went to the peach tree to ensure the Spirit Peaches were unharmed.


    However, Lin Shiming frowned upon discovering that the Spiritual Energy here was obviously insufficient. Compared to the family-nurtured Spirit Peach Tree, this one was evidentlycking nutrition, and it likely would only bear twenty or thirty peaches at most.


    To increase the yield, the tree would definitely need to be transnted to an area with denser Spiritual Energy.


    He had not prepared the materials beforehand to set up a Spirit Gathering Array, and as for transnting it to Qingtao Mountain, Lin Shiming did not possess the necessary transnting techniques.


    This inevitably caused Lin Shiming some distress.


    After examining the peach tree, Lin Shiming entered the wooden hut at Wang Mazhu''s house with a troubled face and began to meditate.


    Wang Mazhu saw Lin Shiming''s somber expression and immediately became fearful, not daring to even breathe too loudly, as he reflected on whether he had done something wrong.

 Chapter 4: The Dual Spirit Root Genius

    <h4>Chapter 4: The Dual Spirit Root Genius</h4>


    ```


    Lin Shiming ceased his cultivation and it was already past midnight. He couldn''t tell if it was the effect of the battle or something else, but he felt that his cultivation speed had increased by a sliver.


    Outside the house came the pitter-patter of light rain, evoking a line of poetry in Lin Shiming''s mind, "Heavenly street''s light rain moistens like cream!"


    Only, the peach blossoms on Qingtao Mountain were probably falling in great numbers again.


    Lin Shiming opened the wooden window, and thin lines of rain drifted through the smalltticed window, carrying his thoughts to the distant Spirit Peach Tree.


    Instead of falling, the peach blossoms, washed by the rain, appeared fresher and more radiant, losing a bit of their reserve and gaining a touch of seductiveness.


    The entire night seemed even more ethereal and beautiful.


    In that moment, Lin Shiming felt as though his mood had been cleansed by the rain, baptized by the peach blossoms.


    Indeed, Lin Shiming recalled, he had been in this world for seventeen years already, yet this was the first time he had appreciated the scenery with such a state of mind.


    "Cultivation, cultivation, after all, must have a sense of moderation, tension and rxation are both necessary!"


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but have some enlightenment.


    "Knock, knock, knock!" There came a knocking on the door.


    "Immortal Master!" Then a young, tender voice followed.


    Lin Shiming released his Divine Sense, and saw a little girl about ten years old with her hair in pigtails, bearing some resemnce to Wang Mazhu, but she was bright-eyed, with white teeth, a pretty and delicate face.


    She was holding a wooden tea set, with steam still rising from the spout of the teapot, clearly freshly prepared.


    "Come in," Lin Shiming said indifferently.


    With the creaking of the door, the little girl kept her head down as she brought the teapot to the table.


    "Immortal Master, this is the tea I brewed for you!"


    "Hmm, leave it there," Lin Shiming wasn''t intentionally cold to the little girl. However, he realized that the small windowttice was perfectly aligned with the view of the peach blossoms, and even the quilt rolled up on the bed was patterned with flowers ¨Cbined with the decorations in the room, it was clearly a young girl''s boudoir!


    Turns out Wang Mazhu was not as honest as he seemed to be, regardless of his intentions, but Lin Shiming was a cultivator.


    Lin Shiming waved his hand, dismissing the girl who was still standing there.


    Then he released the Golden Winged Mantis. Having eaten a Spirit Beast, the mantis had noticeably grownrger, a far better oue than just consuming Spirit Water. It seemed that from now on, he would need to prepare somete-night snacks for this little mantis lord from time to time.


    "Chirp, chirp, chirp!" The Golden Winged Mantis flew to Lin Shiming''s shoulder and rubbed against him with its triangr head.


    Lin Shiming took out some Spirit Beast meat, but it was rejected with a shake of the head.


    After he brought out Spirit Water, the mantis began to drink eagerly.


    It seems the Golden Winged Mantis also had its own peculiarities; having eaten meat, it must drink soup.


    Having fed the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming resumed cultivation, hoping to take advantage of the slightly increased speed and reach the pinnacle of the Qi Cultivation Fifth Layer sooner.


    The next morning, the rain had stopped, yet Lin Shiming still hadn''t thought of a good way to deal with the peach blossoms.


    However, at this time, the system notification appeared again.


    "Please assess all the children, you will select a Second Spirit Root talent for the family."


    Lin Shiming''s heart swelled with a huge wave; he had thought the Spirit Peaches were his great harvest.


    But to think, the next day''s notification was about a Second Spirit Root genius.


    One must know, although in this world having a Spirit Root was enough to practice cultivation, the quality of Spirit Roots varied greatly!


    ```


    The worst, those with Quintuple Spirit Roots, without resources against the heavens, will reach their limit in the mid-stage of Qi Cultivation. For those with Quadruple Spirit Roots, the situation is slightly better, but it''s likeparing 80 steps to 100; without tremendous opportunities, they are unlikely to achieve Foundation Establishment. As for those with Triple Spirit Roots, they are considered average, and that''s what I am myself.


    Only those with Dual Spirit Roots belong to the level of a minor genius, basically, as long as they have one Foundation Establishment Pill, they can steadily reach the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    And the legendary Heavenly Spirit Root is even more against the heavens; as long as they don''t die young, they are assuredly cultivators of the Purple Mansion. With slightly greater opportunities, even forming a Golden Core is possible.


    Of course, aptitude isn''t everything; there are those who, with resources dozens of times greater than ordinary people, have cultivated to even higher realms!


    Currently, in the Lin Family, of over eighty cultivators, there are only two with Dual Spirit Roots. One is the old n head, Lin Xianzhi, and the other is Lin Shiming''s eldest brother, the senior of his generation, Lin Shijie.


    Not to mention the old n head, just speaking of his eldest brother, Lin Shijie, he''s not yet twenty-five and has already reached the Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation. He is expected to reach the Ninth Level before he turns thirty, and after polishing his cultivation for a few years, he can prepare for Foundation Establishment.


    In the Lin Family, there are rewards for those who discover they have Spirit Roots: five Spirit Stones for a Quintuple Spirit Root, ten for a Quadruple Spirit Root, and fifty for a Triple Spirit Root.


    For a genius with Dual Spirit Root aptitude, bringing such a person into the family warrants a reward of two hundred Spirit Stones, and giving birth to a Dual Spirit Root genius merits a whopping five hundred Spirit Stones, equal to ten years of Lin Shiming''s sry.


    Of course, what Lin Shiming values most is not now but thirty yearster when that child grows up and reaches Foundation Establishment, contributing back to the family.


    Lin Shiming does not believe in the philosophy of a loner. In his view, a Loose Cultivator is just that; even with incredible resources, they are merely nouveau riche Loose Cultivators who, without the structured operation of a family, find it difficult to travel far on the road of immortal cultivation.


    It''s like expecting a solitary wolf to be fierce without bounds, but for a lone wolf that cannot even secure meals daily, it''s unimaginable to be a mighty wolf king one day.


    Even if such luck was possible, it would only be a few brutes with exceedingly good fortune.


    Therefore, developing the family and then advancing oneself within it is the direction Lin Shiming has set for himself.


    Lin Shiming didn''t dy; a Dual Spirit Rootbined with a Spirit Peach Tree was enough to gain the family''s attention, so he directly flew on his sword to the Qingtao Town Hall.


    He called over Lin Yang, who was still in his dreams, and gave him an order to gather all the children around ten years of age for an assembly to advance toward immortal cultivation.


    After speaking, Lin Shiming promptly flew towards Fangmu Mountain without stopping.


    It took a day to hurry back to Fangmu Mountain, where he exined the situation with the Spirit Peach Tree to his father, Lin Houyuan. He hadn''t mentioned the Dual Spirit Root yet; that would be tooplicated to exin.


    Lin Houyuan was also very happy when he found out.


    He praised Shiming thoroughly, then arranged for Lin Shiming to find his third older sister, Lin Shiqi, who was known as a Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit nt Master.


    When he found Lin Shiqi, she was in the medicinal garden on Fangmu Mountain, tending to the Spirit nts.


    She stood with hands on hips, pouting, focused on studying some Second Rank herbs.


    "Third sister, I finally found you!" Lin Shiming recounted the affair with the Spirit Peach Tree in full.


    Waving her hand, she replied,


    "I already know about the matter; Uncle told me. But, Seventh Brother, you really have quite the luck!"


    Lin Shiqi was obviously a bit emotional and envious; with that Spirit Peach Tree, Lin Shiming would get at least an extra hundred-plus Spirit Stones, while she worked hard tending herbs in the garden for a mere three Spirit Stone stipend per month, with a sry of just five Spirit Stones a month.


    Of course, if she managed to break through to be a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit nt Master, the treatment would be iparably better.


    So, Lin Shiqi''s short-term goal is to break through to be a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit nt Master, and only then to break through to the Fifth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    "No worries, Third Sister. As long as you agree to teach me a month of Spirit nt transntation techniques, I''ll make sure you earn no less than a hundred Spirit Stones!" Lin Shiming promised confidently.


    Feeling a bit helpless with the Spirit Peach Tree, Lin Shiming had the idea to learn Spirit nt and Alchemy techniques.


    With system prompts, he could point out some incorrect techniques, and with prompts, there would also be no shortage of opportunities to find treasures.


    "Sure, that''s no problem; there are books on Spirit nts in the family. But with so many Spirit Stones, you''re not asking me to help you fight and kill Demonic Beasts, right?"


    "It''s not about fighting; it has nothing to do with strength! I guarantee you''ll be more than satisfied!" Lin Shiming assured once more, and Lin Shiqi agreed to it.

 Chapter 5 - 5 Spirit Testing Plate

    <h4>Chapter 5: Spirit Testing te</h4>


    After Lin Shiqi had taken care of all matters concerning the Spiritual Medicine Garden, she and Lin Shiming hurried to the Contribution Hall, the ce where the Lin Family issued tasks.


    It was here that Lin Shiming had received the task for Qingtao Mountain, and now that Lin Shiqi was leaving, it was naturally necessary to register the task here as well.


    Having registered the task, Lin Shiming then took Lin Shiqi to the family''s Treasure Pavilion.


    The Treasure Pavilion, also known as the n treasury, was the most important ce in the entire family, where all the family''s treasures and cultivation techniques were stored.


    The surroundings were heavily guarded, filled with formations. Even the Lin Family''s own people had to be careful not to identally wander into a killing formation.


    It was because of this ce that Lin Shiming''s system had prompted him countless times, which left him rather speechless.


    The first floor of the Treasure Pavilion contained spiritual materials, Spirit Grass, and Spiritual Artifacts; the second floor was the Scripture Pavilion. Of course, the most precious items were on the third floor, which only Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elders could ess.


    It is said that the Lin Family''s old patriarch Lin Xianzhi was in secluded cultivation on the third floor of the Treasure Pavilion.


    "Shiming, weren''t you supposed to be at Qingtao Mountain? Howe you''re back so soon?" The guard at the Treasure Pavilion was the Third Elder Lin Yushui''s son, who was second in the ranking of the Hou generation, named Lin Houshou.


    Lin Houshou was an expert at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, and he also inherited the Third Elder Lin Yushui''s talent for formations, already capable of setting up Intermediate Grade Second Rank formations.


    However, as he had surpassed sixty years of age and his vital energy was weakening, with Foundation Establishment appearing hopeless, he took the initiative to head to the Treasure Pavilion. While managing the n affairs, he also hoped to study the formations inside the Treasure Pavilion, aspiring to be the Lin Family''s second Superior Grade Second Rank Array Master.


    "Second Uncle, isn''t this a small aplishment?" Lin Shiming said with a slight smile, taking out the materials he had obtained from the beast monkey one by one.


    "Goodd, your strength is increasing so fast, even able to kill a Second Rank Intermediate Grade yellow-furred beast monkey!" Lin Houshou examined the monkey skin and beast monkey ws.


    "Much of that is thanks to Second Uncle''s guidance." Lin Shiming replied sincerely. Due to system prompts, he learned low-level spells very quickly, so he often came to the Scripture Pavilion in the Treasure Pavilion to study. Over time, he often received care and guidance from Lin Houshou.


    "Second Uncle, trade all these materials for Spirit Stones for me. Also, my third sister and I would like to use the Spirit Testing te once!" Lin Shiming said.


    "The Spirit Testing te, are you sure? It''s not the quinquennial Immortal Ascension gathering now, and borrowing it once will cost fifty Spirit Stones. These beast monkey materials can''t be exchanged for that many Spirit Stones, at most only twenty." Lin Houshou said.


    "The rest will be paid by my third sister!" Lin Shiming had long spent his Spirit Stones on Spirit Talismans and Spirit Water, naturally having none left.


    Lin Shiqi, who was beside him, was still contemting the Spirit nts and obviously hadn''t expected Lin Shiming toe up with such a wild idea.


    Her face reddened for a moment, wishing she hadn''te.


    She finally understood what Lin Shiming meant by letting her earn Spirit Stones¡ªit was going to be through such a method. It waspletely an unfunded promissory note, and she had to advance the payment!


    She wanted to pull Lin Shiming aside by the ear to talk, but Lin Shiming didn''t budge. Lin Shiqi carefully nced at Lin Houshou and then said to Lin Shiming with a huff,


    "Old Seventh, what are you talking about? I never agreed to this. And have you been fooled by your other brothers? Testing the Spirit Root only happens once every five years and doesn''t yield many Spirit Stones. It''s only been two years!"


    "Third sister, rest assured. This trip to Qingtao Town, I sensed an individual remarkable from ordinary people. Although I cannot sense the specific Spirit Root, I guarantee you a surprise when the timees!" Lin Shiming confidently gave the excuse he had prepared beforehand.


    Fearing that Lin Shiqi would still disagree, he quickly added,


    "Third sister, don''t worry. Even if it fails, you will get a 15% share of the new Spirit Peach Tree''s harvest!"


    Only after Lin Shiming spoke did Lin Shiqi feel slightly better, while on the other side, Lin Houshou took out the Spirit Testing te, only waiting for Lin Shiqi to hand over the Spirit Stones.


    Not to pay would have been a clear disrespect to an elder!


    Although she was still reluctant and somewhat angry inside, Lin Shiqi paid the thirty Spirit Stones and then red fiercely at Lin Shiming.


    With the Spirit Testing te in hand, Lin Shiming and Lin Shiqi didn''t dy any longer. They mounted the Flying Sword and flew toward Qingtao Town.


    All the way there, Lin Shiqi was obviously giving Lin Shiming the cold shoulder, but he kept on speaking kindly to her.


    As for the episode of dragging Lin Shiqi into this venture, Lin Shiming was also left with no choice.


    At the fifth level of Qi Cultivation, without the Spirit Testing te, he could not reveal his Second Spirit Root. Furthermore, he had just located the Spirit Peach Tree and was raising an extraordinary Spirit Insect.


    If he attracted too much attention, he really couldn''t exin it to the Lin Family, so it would be better to pull Lin Shiqi in, share some Spirit Stones with her, and incidentally learn from her Spirit nt techniques.


    Thebined goal of two people was always smaller than that of one person alone.


    When they arrived in Qingtao Town, it was already the next day.


    Lin Yang, as the mayor, was dressed extremelyvishly, directing people non-stop in the center of the town.


    The Immortal Ascension Assembly was an opportunity to rise in a single step to the heavens, so the scene was extremely noisy. There were people with children, onlookers, and eventually, even the stall vendors took the opportunity toe over.


    The children brought in, about ten years old or so, each looked different. Those dressed in fine clothes were obviously more bold and excited, even brimming with fighting spirit.


    Meanwhile, the children in patchy and rough clothes were extremely timid byparison, clearly at a disadvantage.


    "The Immortal Master has arrived, everyone be quiet, line up!" Lin Yang shouted towards the crowd, swiftly moving to Lin Shiming''s side, with the utmost respect.


    "Immortal Master, there are 182 children between the ages of nine and thirteen who have not been tested, and all are present."


    "Alright, let theme up one by one. You arrange the order, but ensure that every single one of them is tested!" Lin Shiming instructed, and then began to divide the work with Lin Shiqi.


    Testing the Spirit Root with the Spirit Testing te was no less demanding than casting a spell. If one personpleted all the testing, they could do at most fifty in one day, and it would also easily drain their magical power.


    Dividing the work and taking turns with Lin Shiqi to test would be much faster and would ensure that there was enough Spiritual Power.


    Testing for the Spirit Root was quite simple; children just needed to ce their hands on the Spirit Testing te. Then, the Cultivator would use Spiritual Energy to guide it, channeling the special Spiritual Energy of the Spirit Testing te into the bodies of the children. Those who resonated had a Spirit Root.


    The more intense the resonance, the better the Spirit Root. It was said that during the resonance of a Heavenly Spirit Root, there would directly appear a phenomenon.


    The first toe up was a child led by Lin Yang, bearing a strong resemnce to Lin Yang himself, clearly one of Lin Yang''s many children.


    This child was obviously not at peace, with his chest heaving dramatically. He pressed both hands tightly onto the Spirit Testing te.


    "Rx a little!" Lin Shiming reminded, then injected Spiritual Energy into the Spirit Testing te.


    As Spiritual Energy was injected into the Spirit Testing te, the patterns of Spirit Patterns on its surface lit up one after another, finally forming an extremelyplex symbol of Spiritual Energy.


    An even more enigmatic stream of Spiritual Energy surged from the Spirit Testing te, following the child''s hands and entering his body.


    A momentter, the child''s body emitted a three-colored glow, revealing the elemental aura of gold, wood, and earth.


    "He has a Spirit Root!" The most excited was none other than Lin Yang, the mayoral elder. As the mayor, he naturally knew what it looked like when someone had a Spirit Root.


    He almost roared it out. After having more than twenty sons, finally one of them had a Spirit Root. How could he not be overjoyed?


    Eventually, seeing that Lin Shiming remained calm andposed, he quickly apologized for his outburst, forcibly calming down.


    "Such luck!" Lin Shiqi at his side immediately felt it was unbelievable. Usually, at the five-yearly Immortal Ascension Assemblies, amongst five or six hundred children, there was a very high chance that not a single one with a Third Spirit Root would appear. Yet this time, out of just over a hundred people, one with a Third Spirit Root already emerged.


    "Seventh brother, you were talking about this person, right? A Third Spirit Root, the quality isn''t bad, indeed suitable!"


    "Third sister, it''s not this one!" Lin Shiming shook his head.


    To be honest, he himself was also pleasantly surprised by this Third Spirit Root.


    "Then who is it?" Lin Shiqi looked around, full of curiosity, and couldn''t help but press for an answer.


    "Just wait and see!" Lin Shiming replied vaguely, even though he too wanted to satisfy Lin Shiqi''s curiosity.


    But who would satisfy his own curiosity?


    He also wanted to quickly find that Second Spirit Root.

 Chapter 6 - 6 Shizhong Shitao

    <h4>Chapter 6: Shizhong Shitao</h4>


    The convening of the Immortal Ascension Conference turned the usually quiet town of Qingtao into quite a bustling ce.


    And the atmosphere reached its peak after the son of the town head was discovered to have a Spirit Root.


    Whether it was the parents or the children, it seemed as if the confidence on their faces had increased by a few notches.


    However, only Lin Shiming who was on the stage knew that most of the people here would return disappointed, as Spirit Roots were also known as "destiny with immortals."


    And such destiny was hardly easy toe by!


    After learning from Lin Yang that his Third Spirit Root son was named Lin Zhong, Lin Shiming asked Lin Yang to prepare more and spend more time together.


    Once he went up the mountain, it would be a separation between the immortal and the mortal; if Lin Zhong were toe back down the mountain, it would not be until he was at least twenty years old.


    As for before that, he would not be allowed toe down from Fangmu Mountain.


    As a Third Spirit Root, Lin Zhong was naturally given considerable importance on Fangmu Mountain; barring any surprises, his name would be entered into the n records as Lin Shizhong.


    "Next!"


    ...


    "Next!" As Lin Shiming continued to call for recements, one after another, the disheartened and bewildered children left.


    The scene began to quiet down.


    Twenty-nine in a row, and still no new Spirit Root bearers emerged.


    Lin Shiqi also took the Spirit Testing te from Lin Shiming.


    "Old Seven, take it easy, even the Immortal Ascension Conference held once every five years wasn''t this strong."


    Lin Shiming nodded and didn''t say much but took out a Spirit Stone and slowly began to absorb the Spiritual Energy.


    It was not until the hundredth person that the second Spirit Root bearer finally appeared¡ªa boy named Lin An. He had just a Quintuple Spirit Root, barely having the chance to be a cultivator.


    Still, it caused a great stir at the venue.


    The children being tested and the apanying adults regained their light once again.


    From early morning until near dusk.


    The more than one hundred fifty times of Spirit Root testing made both Lin Shiming and Lin Shiqi appear exceptionally weary.


    Lin Shiming still held some expectations, while Lin Shiqi had already started to go through the motions, no longer believing that the remaining thirty-some people would produce a good Spirit Root bearer.


    Most of the children had already been tested, with one Third Spirit Root and two Quintuple Spirit Roots emerging in total.


    "Third Sis, you go rest for a bit, I''ll take care of the rest!" Lin Shiming could see Lin Shiqi''s weariness and depleted hope.


    Lin Shiqi nodded and went to the side to quietly recover her magic power.


    "Eh!"


    Lin Shiming suddenly looked surprised. In front of him, Wang Mazhu appeared sneaking nces, pulling along a shy little girl.


    It was the same little girl who had brought him tea yesterday.


    Her timid appearance was no different from the day before.


    "Immortal Master, this humble one is Wang Mazhu; this is my young daughter. Please trouble the Immortal Master!" Wang Mazhu performed a full prostration with repeated kowtows.


    Lin Shiming did not pay attention to Wang Mazhu but instead waved the little girl over.


    The little girl ced her hand on the Spirit Testing te, and Lin Shiming immediately began guiding with his own Spiritual Energy.


    However, in the next moment, red and green lights burst forth from within the girl''s body, creating waves of rosy glow, mysterious and extraordinary.


    The firewood dual nature aura was unmistakably revealed!


    "A Dual Spirit Root genius!" Even Lin Shiqi was left with her eyes wide and her mouth gaping. She had only seen such a halo of light on their eldest brother, Lin Shijie. It was at that moment she realized that not all people are the same.


    Some are destined to traverse the path of immortal cultivation, to take a step that allows them to look down upon their peers, while others are meant to be just a backdrop.


    That was why she chose to be a Spirit nt Master, to contribute to the family n. Even if she turned into a pile of dry bones a hundred yearster, with every step the Lin Family took forward, her footprints would remain. She had no regrets; born into the family, she embraced the duty to revitalize it.


    Lin Shiming was also somewhat surprised, his expression changing for quite a while.


    No matter how hard he racked his brain, the Dual Spirit Root genius turned out to be this timid little girl.


    The mortals weren''t too bothered, merely aware that another Spirit Root had appeared. In their eyes, Dual and Quintuple Spirit Roots were all the same since no one''s Spirit Root could grow legs. Hence, theycked the concept of better or worse and could only join in the shouts.


    Wang Mazhu was the most excited, continuously giving thanks here and there, even to his ancestors and everyone present in a rather exaggerated manner.


    But in this moment, no one would ridicule him, and it was even possible that the name Wang Mazhu would cease to exist, reced by Mr. Mazhu of Qingtao Town.


    For every mortal born with a Spirit Root, the Lin Family would ensure a lifetime of glory and wealth, even securing an official position.


    Like this time, if Lin Yang and Wang Mazhu wished, Lin Shiming could arrange for them to take up a minor official position in Xing County under the control of the Lin Family, living even more freely and leisurely.


    "Girl, do you have a formal name?" Lin Shiming examined the little girl carefully, who clearly still didn''t know what the Spirit Root would actually bring her.


    She only knew that her life would be much better from now on, and her father would be more satisfied, nothing more.


    "No!" the little girl shook her head.


    "Your window faces the Spirit Peach Tree, showing your fondness for peach blossoms. Then, let''s call you Wang Tao. But after you enter Fangmu Mountain, you''ll be called Lin Tao, with the full name Lin Shitao. You can be the first female cultivator of the Shi generation!" Lin Shiming didn''t care if the little girl understood what he meant by the first female cultivator of the Shi generation, he simply gave her the concept.


    "Lin Tao?" the little girl murmured to herself, repeating it several times. Then she nodded firmly and smiled as she spoke:


    "Immortal Master, I am willing to be called that, it sounds nicer than ''girl''!"


    "Hmm, but from now on, don''t call me Immortal Master, call me Seventh Brother!" Lin Shiming continued chatting with Lin Tao for a while, then called over Lin Zhong and the two other Quintuple Spirit Root bearers to briefly describe life in Fangmu Mountain.


    He gave them two days to enjoy a brief reunion with their parents.


    As for the dozen or so children yet to be tested, they aroused Lin Shiqi''s curiosity, who volunteered to do the testing herself.


    However, the results? Not a single one was sessful.


    After sending everyone away, Lin Shiming took Lin Shiqi and flew towards Qingtao Mountain.


    It was gettingte, and both had expended a lot of their magical powers, so naturally, they returned to the Formation at Qingtao Mountain to cultivate and replenish.


    But all the way, Lin Shiqi bombarded him with questions. In front of mortals, she had held back.


    Now, she persistently followed Lin Shiming, asking non-stop, with Lin Shiming bing greatly troubled, trying to evade her questions.


    But a woman''s curiosity is clearly beyond Lin Shiming''s imagination. In the end, she blurted out an astonishing question:


    "Do you like that little girl? Did you specially organize the Immortal Ascension Ceremony for her?"


    In an instant, Lin Shiming almost dropped his jaw. He couldn''t believe she coulde up with such a preposterous guess and say it out loud!


    Lin Shiming could only keep exining, but the more he exined, the more Lin Shiqi became convinced.


    She even swore solemnly that she would keep his secret.


    Lin Shiming could only silently regret not testing the fifty by himself, which would have drained Lin Shiqi''s magical power and left her with no time to bother him.


    Indeed, there''s truth in the saying that one should not eat too much.


    And for cultivators, one''s magical powers should not be too abundant!

 Chapter 7 - 7 The Demon Monkey Reappears

    <h4>Chapter 7: The Demon Monkey Reappears</h4>


    The morning sun was just rising, and a gentle spring breeze blew, causing more peach blossoms to burst into bloom on Qingtao Mountain.


    Lin Shiming awoke from his cultivation, feeling spirited and exhaustion gone.


    The persistent power of the Qing Mu Art had an advantage in terms of adjusting and nourishing the body.


    With abundant energy, Lin Shiming also practiced the spells he had mastered over the years, such as the Wood Vine Technique, Wood Spear Technique, and Wood Shield Technique.


    Of course, he also knew the Fireball Technique and Golden Sword Technique, but since he cultivated Wood Attribute Techniques, these spells were significantly less powerful, so Lin Shiming preferred to have a few extra fire and metal Spirit Talismans.


    After practicing his spells, he then released the Golden Winged Mantis, feeding it arge chunk of spirit monkey meat and two bowls of Spirit Water.


    "Eh, Shiming, this Spirit Insect of yours is quite unusual, and it''s rather pretty too!" Lin Shiqi had also emerged from her room at this time and kept observing the Golden Winged Mantis.


    As far as she knew, most mantises were green in color, and even the ones with gold only had a thinyer.


    When Lin Shiming bought this mantis egg, many in the Lin Family knew about it, but they all thought it was a green-winged mantis and advised him ordingly.


    "It really can eat a lot; it''s nearly eaten me out of house and home," Lin Shiming responded with a slight smile and a bit of aint.


    "Since it can eat so much, why don''t you sell it to me? I promise to give you a fair price!" After circling around and inspecting the Golden Winged Mantis thoroughly, Lin Shiqi''s eyes clearly showed her fondness for it.


    If not for the Golden Winged Mantis waving its golden scythe-like legs and making angry chittering sounds, Lin Shiqi probably would have touched it right then.


    "Ahem!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but cough a few times. He really wanted to tell his third sister she couldn''t afford it, but after thinking about it, he decided to change the subject.


    "Third sister, we should transnt the Spirit Peach Tree back as soon as possible so it can absorb more spiritual energy from the Spirit Vein and bear more Spirit Peaches!"


    "Alright! If you ever change your mind, you can always find me!" Lin Shiqi replied, clearly reluctant to drop the topic.


    The distance from Qingtao Mountain to Da Niu''s home wasn''t far, and in less than half an hour using Flying Swords, they arrived at their destination.


    The Spirit Peach Tree was the same as it had been two days ago, its branches dotted with pink buds, none of them blooming or withering.


    "We''re really lucky we came early. With the scarcity of spiritual energy here, blooming once and bearing fruit might be its limit, and at most, it could only produce around twenty spirit peaches!" Lin Shiqi walked under the peach tree, expressing her relief.


    In that moment, she was undeniably confident. As a rare Spirit nt Master with innate talent in the Lin Family, this was her pride.


    As she finished speaking, she pinched a magic form and pushed her palm out slightly with practiced ease. Wood Attribute spiritual energy surged, and a dazzling green light flowed into the peach tree.


    "Shiming, for us cultivators of Wood Attribute Techniques, infusing some pure Wood Attribute spiritual energy before transnting helps reduce the damage caused by the loss of spiritual energy during transntation. Don''t be like some Loose Cultivators, who rely on brute force and end up damaging many spirit nts!" Lin Shiqi said with a hint of pity.


    Lin Shiming agreed wholeheartedly, as often in the markets, one would see spiritual medicines whose value had plummeted. Vendors always thought that merchants were pressing down prices and exploiting Loose Cultivators.


    Little did they know the spiritual medicine was irreversibly damaged by the cultivators themselves.


    After the infusion of spiritual energy, whether it was an illusion or not, Lin Shiming felt that the peach blossoms on the Spirit Peach Tree shivered slightly, as if they were about to bloom at any moment.


    "With the infusion of spiritual energyplete, the next step is to ensure the roots are not damaged," Lin Shiqi said as she twirled her hand and took out a small Jade Bottle from her Storage Ring.


    Lin Shiming was familiar with the liquid inside; it was the Nurturing Spirit Liquid that worked miracles like the Nurturing Spirit Formation, the former promoting the nurturing of Spirit Beasts, and thetter, the growth of Spirit nts.


    After unsealing the bottle, Lin Shiqi poured the Nurturing Spirit Liquid around the base of the Spirit Peach Tree, forming a ring of liquid spanning four to five meters.


    Despite the small size of the Jade Bottle in Lin Shiqi''s hand, it was an Inferior Grade Magic Artifact capable of holding several dozen pounds of liquid.


    "All set, Shiming. Now you just need to dig it out and seal it in a Jade Box!" Lin Shiqi, not forgetting her promise to teach Lin Shiming, exined the process to him word by word and demonstrated each step.


    And just then, Lin Shiming suddenly saw another prompt before his eyes!


    "Please follow the footsteps of the Spirit Monkey, and you will find the tribe of the Spirit Monkeys!" Lin Shiming was somewhat surprised, as the system prompt left him baffled.


    So much so that he became distracted, instantly encountering Lin Shiqi''s disdain.


    "Little Seven! If this is your attitude toward learning, you might as well not study Spirit nt Techniques. Spirit cultivation may not be profound knowledge, but it requires meticulousness, seriousness, and dedication!"


    "Of course, if you''re willing to hand over that little mantis to me, I can overlook your bad habit!"


    Lin Shiming simply rolled his eyes at him.


    Then, without paying any further attention to Lin Shiqi, he released his divine sense as far as possible, covering the dense forest on top of the mound.


    As a Qi Cultivation fifthyer cultivator, Lin Shiming''s divine sense could extend to a diameter of one hundred meters. Of course, if focused in one direction, it could reach about two hundred meters but at the expense of elerating divine sense consumption several times over.


    Normally, Lin Shiming would not do such a thing, but the system prompt made it clear to him that there was a yellow-furred monster monkey nearby, likely from the same tribe as the one he had encountered before.


    Moreover, the system''s prompt reward also puzzled Lin Shiming.


    When the divine sense extended over two hundred meters, it already covered the depths of the forest on the hill.


    Atop a thick and towering pine tree, Lin Shiming once again spotted a monster monkey at a nce.


    It was the familiar Ge Youyback posture, still eating some unknown fruit, scratching its head from time to time and then peeling the tree bark, its green eyes rolling around, peering in Lin Shiming''s direction.


    More urately, it was staring at the Spirit Peach Tree behind Lin Shiming!


    "Is this the same yellow-furred monster monkey you killedst time?" Lin Shiqi also realized and sent her divine sense over.


    Though as a Qi Cultivation fourthyer cultivator it was quite strenuous for her, causingrge beads of sweat to form on her forehead, she still spotted the monkey.


    "Big Sister, you go ahead and take the Spirit Tree back to Qingtao Mountain!" Lin Shiming suggested.


    "What about you?" Lin Shiqi immediately countered.


    Without waiting for Lin Shiming to respond, she spoke again, "You haven''t really fought one before, let''s go together."


    "The Spirit Tree is important, and I also have the Spirit Talisman from Great Grandfather!" Lin Shiming shook his head, his intention was to track, not to hunt alone.


    Moreover, in the jungle, the yellow-furred monster monkey was asfortable as fish in water, and Lin Shiming was not necessarily its match.


    "Fine, but be careful," Lin Shiqi added, then retracted her divine sense and began transnting the Spirit Peach Tree.


    She released a snow-white mid-grade magic artifact longsword.


    Although this sword, like Lin Shiming''s, was also a mid-grade magic artifact, its power and emanating sword light were much weaker than Lin Shiming''s.


    As Lin Shiqi chanted and formed seals, the snow-white longsword transformed into a giant sword and chopped down fiercely, slicing along the circle previously outlined with Nurturing Spirit Liquid, uprooting the entire tree, soil and all.


    As the jade box in her hands opened, the Spirit Peach Tree turned into a stream of light and fell into the jade box.


    "Roar roar!" Just as Lin Shiqi put away the peach tree, the distant monster monkey clearly became agitated.


    It screamed, leapt down from the pine tree, and ran towards Lin Shiming and the others, clutching a thick, hard tree branch it had snapped off at random.


    The monster monkey was incredibly fast, reaching Lin Shiming in the blink of an eye.

 Chapter 8: Infiltrating the Monkey Forest

    <h4>Chapter 8: Infiltrating the Monkey Forest</h4>


    "Retreat!" Lin Shiming had already witnessed the strange speed of the yellow-haired Demon Monkey and couldn''t help but warn Lin Shiqi.


    His hand did not stop either, as he formed a hand gesture and the Green Spirit Sword instantly flew out from his Storage Bag, transforming into a giant sword three to four meters long, and shing towards the yellow-haired Demon Monkey.


    Following that, he gave a big wave of his hand, scattering arge number of Wood Vine Technique seeds. In addition to these, he also held several Fireball Talismans in his hand.


    Inparison, Lin Shiqi seemed much more flustered, and in her haste, she only managed to summon her snow-white Spirit Sword.


    This Demon Monkey was clearly slightly stronger than the one Lin Shiming had killed earlier.


    With a fierce leap, it swung the hard wooden stick in its hand heavily, knocking both Spirit Swords flying in disarray.


    Then, without stopping, it continued to smash its way forward.


    "Wood Vine Technique! Rise!" Lin Shiming finished chanting the spell, and countless wood vines broke through the soil.


    Transforming into serpent-like entities, they swarmed towards the Demon Monkey, entwining it.


    These wood vines were different from the swords; they could not be sent flying just by a smack from the Demon Monkey.


    On the contrary, the entire robust wooden stick was quickly entangled by the vines, infuriating the monstrously howling Demon Monkey.


    "Release the attack Spirit Talismans!" Lin Shiming voiced a reminder to Lin Shiqi.


    The second-rank, intermediate-grade Fireball Talisman in his hand was also fiercely thrown at the Demon Monkey.


    Lin Shiming''s Fireball hit the Demonic Monkey, which failed to evade in time, directly ckening its entire body and igniting mes upon it.


    Lin Shiqi also recovered from her shock, unleashing a Wind de Talisman. Countless wind des formed and tore through the air.


    With a roar, the Demon Monkey, its green eyes finally filled with fear, flipped and leaped backwards, escaping towards the rear.


    "Chase it!" Starting from fear, Lin Shiqi became somewhat excited. As a Qi Cultivation fourth-level cultivator, this was her first time facing a Demonic Beast, and she did not want to let this Demon Monkey escape.


    "I''ll go after it. You go protect Lin Shitao, and bring her and the Spirit Peach Tree back to Qingtao Mountain!" Lin Shiming directly stopped Lin Shiqi, but seeing her reluctance, he added:


    "Third Sister, it''s very likely there are more Demon Monkeys. Protecting Lin Tao and the Spirit Peach Tree is more important!"


    The resolve in Lin Shiming''s words also made Lin Shiqi calm down.


    Indeed, Lin Tao''s home was nearby, and she had the Spirit Peach Tree with her. It was truly more important to protect these things.


    Seeing Lin Shiqi''s understanding, Lin Shiming did not hesitate, and followed after the Demon Monkey.


    This time, Lin Shiming did not use the sword for flying but instead cast a basic spell to lighten his body, following the Demon Monkey from a distance.


    The Demon Monkey initially ran through the forest with extreme agility, disappearing into the distance in the blink of an eye, but after a while, it slowed down noticeably.


    The fireball had hit it squarely, and its injuries were evidently taking their toll.


    The trail of fresh blood it left became Lin Shiming''s best tracking tool.


    Lin Shiming did not pursue too closely. Ordinary beasts had a concept of herd, let alone a group of Demon Monkeys.


    Of course, when tracking, Lin Shiming was far from being as calm as he appeared on the surface.


    Although the system had given a prompt, this pursuit was undoubtedly extremely dangerous; venturing further might even lead him to the outskirts of the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    Therefore, in his hands, he involuntarily held the two second-rank, superior-grade Spirit Talismans brought from the family.


    With only Qi Cultivation at the fifth level, he would be no match for any Demonic Beast in theter stages of cultivation.


    Hence, Lin Shiming could only hope that there were note-stage Great Demon Monkeys among them, while at the same time preparing for the worst.


    After tracking for most of the day, Lin Shiming arrived at the mouth of a valley.


    Inside the valley, there were rows of Qingtao peach trees.


    And among the Qingtao trees, Lin Shiming was thrilled to discover that there was a Spirit Peach Tree.


    Moreover, the Spirit Peach Trees here have actually borne several unripe fruits.


    "There''s a Spirit Vein here!" Lin Shiming thought of a possibility, his heart thumping wildly.


    In this world of immortal cultivation, if one wants to embark on the true path to immortality, they must pay attention to wealth,panionship, techniques, andnd!


    Wealth refers to possessions, Spirit Stones, and various treasures. Companionship epasses a Dao Companion, family members, and even one''s household or sect.


    Technique means Cultivation Techniques and secret spells.


    Land is the most special, and one might say, the most crucial element.


    That is thend of Spirit Veins.


    This is why cultivators distance themselves from mortals and establish ns and sects in high mountains and unusual valleys¡ªit all depends on the presence and quality of Spirit Veins.


    Atop Fangmu Mountain, the Lin Family has established their presence and thrived precisely because there is a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein on the mountain, which can amply supply cultivators with energy for their practice.


    Even supporting three Foundation Establishment cultivators wouldn''t be a problem.


    But the Qingtao Mountain where Lin Shiming now resides has only a First Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein, which can barely support one or two cultivators practicing together.


    Once the Spiritual Energy is insufficient, one has to absorb Spiritual Energy from Spirit Stones all the time to cultivate, which entails a huge consumption.


    This is also why when Lin Houyuan and Lin Yuqing saw Lin Shiming''s talent, they were reluctant to let hime here to stand guard.


    The quality of a Spirit Vein also determines the growth cycle of Spiritual Objects; with an ample supply of Spiritual Energy, even a hundred-year-old Spiritual Medicine could achieve the same effects in just a few decades.


    The Spirit Peaches in front of him had already matured, obviously earlier than the ones on Qingtao Mountain''s Spirit Vein.


    Lin Shiming suppressed his excitement, carefully absorbed the Spiritual Energy around him, and after circting it in his body for half a Small Cirction, he finally confirmed that there was indeed a Spirit Vein here, and it was at least a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein.


    The existence of a Spirit Vein also signifies the production of Spiritual nts and objects, a bounty that could bring tremendous benefits to the entire Lin Family.


    Lin Shiming gritted his teeth, forcing himself to calm down.


    The hint given by the system was incredibly valuable, but at the same time, Lin Shiming found himself in an extremely dangerous situation.


    It made him dare not ck off in the slightest.


    Lin Shiming also hid in the tree, not daring to move around any longer, but used his Divine Sense to extensively scan the surroundings.


    Of course, Lin Shiming was very cautious using his Divine Sense. Some powerful Demonic Beasts could sense Divine Sense, and although it was rare for Second Rank Demonic Beasts to have this sensitivity, Lin Shiming still didn''t dare to gamble on it.


    As his Divine Sense spread meter by meter, Lin Shiming''s excitement grew stronger and stronger!


    Spirit Peach Trees, lots of Spirit Peach Trees!


    Lin Shiming was somewhat numb, and eventually, he even found an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Spirit Peach Tree.


    One must know that an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Spirit Peach can be used to improve Cultivation Level, and serve as a precious ingredient for elixirs, each worth twenty or thirty Spirit Stones!


    Far surpassing ordinary Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Peaches.


    Of course, there were also several cold showers poured on Lin Shiming''s head.


    Lin Shiming found that almost every Spirit Peach Tree was guarded by a yellow-haired Demon Monkey.


    And on that big Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Peach Tree was an evenrger Red-haired Demon Monkey with more formidable Spirit Might.


    When Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense covered it, he almost held his breath.


    That was undoubtedly a Demonic Monkey at the peak of the Second Rank, with a kind of Spirit Might that Lin Shiming had only seen on his great grandfather, the Lin Family''s Great Elder Lin Houqing, who practiced Body Cultivation.


    Lin Shiming was already considering retreat, with no intention of trying to pick the peaches.


    While Spirit Peaches are desirable, one must have their life to enjoy them. Lin Shiming had no doubt about the ferocity of these Demon Monkeys¡ªif discovered by them, a gruesome death by being torn apart would be inevitable.

 Chapter 9: Monkey Wine

    <h4>Chapter 9: Monkey Wine</h4>


    The Peach Blossom Valley at this time seemed exceptionally quiet, with only the asional demon monkey leaping yfully towards the outskirts.


    They all ced immense psychological pressure on Lin Shiming.


    Luckily, the group of demon monkeys clearly had a weak ability to sense divine consciousness, which was why Lin Shiming had not been discovered for a long time.


    But as he surveyed the area, Lin Shiming always felt something eerie. The second-rank peak red-haired great demon monkey lying there seemed somewhat unsteady,


    as if it were drunk.


    Yet its spirit might was full, and its hostility surged to the skies.


    "Eh, that bamboo tube!" Lin Shiming suddenly noticed a detail; the red-haired demon monkey was actually holding a bamboo tube to its mouth.


    Shaking its head and swaying its body, it was enjoying itself!


    How was this not just like his Uncle Thirteen?


    Were these monkeys drinking?


    The idea sent a shock through Lin Shiming''s heart, monkeys drinking alcohol¡ªcould you even imagine it?


    No wonder their sensitivity to divine consciousness had weakened so much.


    His divine sense had been released in front of these demon monkeys without being detected.


    Lin Shiming continued to expand his divine sense and observed the other demon monkeys. Atst, he found that on the branches where the other monkeys were, there were also bamboo tubes, although clearly much smaller than the one the red-haired demon monkey had.


    Furthermore, Lin Shiming discovered empty tree holes at the intersections of those Spirit Peach Trees.


    Therger Spirit Peach Trees had more hollowed-out spots, especially that intermediate-grade, second-rank Spirit Peach Tree, which had no less than seven.


    "Monkey Wine!" The term popped into Lin Shiming''s mind and refused to leave.


    This group of demon monkeys was actually brewing Monkey Wine, and the raw material was probably those spiritual peaches.


    With the demon monkeys'' strong abilities and ghostly agility, possessing the valor to uproot mountains, it was estimated that the Monkey Wine also had extraordinary effects.


    If the Lin Family grasped the method of making this spiritual wine, not to mention the boost it would give to the strength of the family cultivators, just selling the wine alone would bring considerable profits to the Lin Family.


    Especially since the Qingxuan Sect was set to sell Foundation Establishment Pills three yearster¡ªif the Lin Family seized this opportunity, they would certainly rise to another level!


    His father would also firmly secure his ce as a candidate for Foundation Establishment within the family.


    Upon considering this, Lin Shiming wished he could instantly return to Fangmu Mountain to bring people and level Peach Blossom Valley.


    Afterpleting his exploration, Lin Shiming also harbored thoughts of retreat, but before doing so, his divine sense once again swept across an empty tree hole where the upant demon monkey was clearly absent.


    "Stealing the wine?" A thought suddenly surfaced in Lin Shiming''s mind, and it started to persist.


    Yet the next moment he startled himself with his own bold idea.


    Stealing wine from within such arge troop of monkeys was undoubtedly like pulling chestnuts out of the fire.


    Nevertheless, Lin Shiming didn''t believe there was no chance; his biggest trump card was the two superior-grade, second-rank Spirit Talismans he possessed, one offensive and one defensive. Most importantly, he could perform Sword Flight, and even though the demon monkeys were exceptionally fierce, they were powerless against Lin Shiming soaring through the sky.


    Moreover, he didn''t need to fight; these demon monkeys didn''t react very sensitively to the outside world.


    MOST importantly, having confirmed the presence of spiritual wine, he could also persuade the family elders to send more cultivators.


    "Let''s give the Invisibility Talisman a try!" Lin Shiming ultimately decided to make an attempt.


    Lin Shiming took out apletely white Spirit Talisman from his Storage Ring¡ªthe sole special Spirit Talisman he had, the Invisibility Talisman.


    This kind of Invisibility Talisman was actually somewhat useless to cultivators; after all, it only faded one''s appearance, which was easily seen through by any cultivator with divine sense.


    And its biggest problem was that one couldn''t release magic power or engage in magicalbat while using it!


    Only in special situations like this could it unleash amazing effects.


    With a p of the Spirit Talisman, Lin Shiming''s figure faded away from the void.


    Then he stepped out from behind a green peach tree that had concealed him and followed a path with fewer Spirit Peach Trees and demon monkeys, secretly making his way to the location of the empty tree hole.


    He quickly climbed up to the empty tree hole.


    The fragrance of the spiritual wine was extremely potent; it clearly tasted better than the Green Spirit Wine of the Lin Family and was richer in spiritual energy.


    Lin Shiming scooped up a bit with his hand and took a sip; a surge of abundant spiritual energy burst forth, and he felt that the wine was also healing some of his hidden injuries.


    The tion in Lin Shiming''s heart grew even stronger; the spiritual wine not only had the effect of increasing spiritual power but also could heal wounds!


    Perhaps that was also the reason this group of demon monkeys had dominated Peach Blossom Valley.


    A troop of monkeys unafraid of injury was frightening to imagine!


    If the Lin Family possessed this wine, the losses of the Lin Family''s Demon Hunting Team could probably be reduced by more than half.


    "Take it!" Without hesitation, Lin Shiming took out a Magic Artifact Jade Bottle, used for storing Spirit Water.


    He began frantically to cast the storage spell into the tree hole.


    At this moment, time was not money, time was life!


    One breath, two breaths, three breaths!


    Once Lin Shiming could no longer contain it, he put away the Jade Bottle!


    Although this series of actions was extensive, in fact, it all happened in less than five breaths'' time!


    After taking the spiritual wine, Lin Shiming did not hesitate and rode his Green Spirit Sword, shooting straight up into the sky.


    Behind him, countless demon monkeys started to roar, but Lin Shiming had already flown into the high sky,


    disappearing into the horizon...

 Chapter 10: Return to Fangmu Mountain

    <h4>Chapter 10: Return to Fangmu Mountain</h4>


    Atop Fangmu Mountain, the Treasure Pavilion.


    During leisure times, the Treasure Pavilion seemed quite deserted, with only the spring breeze blowing, leaving no traces behind.


    Lin Houshou put down a Formation Jade Slip, a smile emerging on his face.


    Just moments ago, he had unraveled a formation puzzle that had baffled him for over a decade, and he had recorded the solution in the Jade Slip.


    He felt that it wouldn''t be long before he could truly arrange a Superior Grade Second Rank formation, bing the second Array Master of the Lin Family to reach such a level.


    A sense of pride, long absent from his heart, surged once again.


    He, Lin Houshou, was still the formation genius of the Lin Family!


    "Eh!" The next moment, Lin Houshou''s vision blurred, and he saw someone he shouldn''t have seen.


    "Second Uncle!" Lin Shiming''s call of "Second Uncle" brought Lin Houshou back to reality.


    The visitor was none other than Lin Shiming, who had hurried back from Qingtao Mountain. It had been three days since the trip to Peach Blossom Valley.


    Upon returning to Qingtao Mountain, Lin Shiming had Lin Shiqi guard the ce, and promptly rushed back to Fangmu Mountain with Lin Tao, Lin Zhong, and others.


    At this moment, Lin Houshou was quite displeased with Lin Shiming. He had left for guard duty less than a month ago and had already returned three times!


    With such a mindset, how could he be a true guardian, and how could he bear the responsibility of revitalizing the family in the future?


    "Second Uncle, I am here to return the Spirit Testing te!" Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Testing te, looking at Lin Houshou, who had suddenly be serious, not understanding why his expression had changed so drastically.


    "Oh, how was it, have you learned that earning Spirit Stones is not easy?" Lin Houshou took the Spirit Testing te, knowing that there were eight other guards in the family who would borrow the te to gamble for good fortunes.


    If they tested a cultivator with good potential, they could be rewarded with both fame and a rich harvest, and might even gain the goodwill of a future powerhouse.


    Clearly, this was how Lin Houshou viewed Lin Shiming as well.


    That''s why he said so.


    In his view, life is a journey against the current, and cultivation is a struggle against the heavens. Encountering setbacks is sometimes better, which is why he had not stopped Lin Shiming from borrowing the Spirit Testing te before.


    But before Lin Houshou could see the disheartened and chastened expression Lin Shiming would surely wear...


    Several people hurriedly approached from behind Lin Shiming.


    "Family Head, Great Elder, Second Elder, Fourth Elder, Sixth Elder!"


    Lin Houshou couldn''t understand what was going on at all.


    In that instant, nearly all the elders had arrived, with only the Third and Fifth Elders absent.


    The Third Elder was Lin Houshou''s mother, Lin Yushui, the only Superior Grade Second Rank formation master, presiding over the family''s visit to the market in Xing County.


    The Fifth Elder, Lin Yuzheng, was the head elder of the family''s merchant fleet, constantly leading the caravan to conduct business and bringing profit to the family.


    Even when Lin Shijie was discovered to have a Dual Spirit Root years ago, the family was not more shaken than this!


    "Shiming, is the message you transmitted true?" The Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, a pale and thin middle-aged man, asked earnestly due to years of alchemy, his gaze soft and profound.


    The other elders also watched Lin Shiming eagerly.


    That news was too important for the Lin Family, which was currently in a precarious situation.


    "It''s true! They are currently resting in the guest weing building, having flown a day''s journey, exhausted. Shiming took the liberty of letting them rest!" Lin Shiming answered humbly and politely.


    He wasn''t surprised by the elders'' expressions; when he learned about the Dual Spirit Root, he, Lin Shiming, had the very same look.


    Moreover, these are elders who have dedicated their lives to the family, always hoping to see their children rise to great heights.


    At this moment, Lin Houshou was the most tormented.


    Everyone else understood the situation; he was the only one out of the loop.


    Normally, he would have swung his fist and demanded Lin Shiming to exin everything right there and then¡ªno need to wait so anxiously.


    But now, in this situation, aside from the Sixth Elder and the Family Head Lin Houyuan, everyone present was his senior. How could he dare to act rashly?


    It was Lin Houyuan, the Family Head, who noticed Lin Houshou''s difort and spoke up:


    "Second Brother, Shiming discovered a talent with Dual Spirit Roots, and the Spirit Testing te was sent by you, so you share in this merit!"


    "What?" Lin Houshou''s mind buzzed, and it took a long time for him toe back to his senses, then he burst into heartyughter.


    The emergence of a prodigy with Dual Spirit Roots wouldpletely justify why all the elders of the Lin Family had mobilized.


    Even the patriarch of the family with ''Xian'' in his name might be stirred.


    The naming convention of the Lin Family was established by the founding elder, Lin Zhengxing, organized as: integrity, enlightenment precedes, worldly benefits extend far, and family harmony has its strategies.


    Currently, Lin Xianzhi was the only one left from the ''Xian'' generation; the ''Yu'' generation still had quite a few elders, the family''s pirs were from the ''Hou'' generation, and the ''Shi'' generation was the Lin Family''s hope for the future, also the generation that was growing rapidly.


    "Shiming, nicely done! Heaven blesses our Lin Family!" Lin Houshou couldn''t help blushing at the thoughts he had earlier, but the prospect of a new Dual Spirit Root in the family pushed those thoughts aside.


    "Since everyone is avable right now, why don''t we go to the guest building to meet some of the younger generation!" While the elders were all joyous, the Second Elder also put forth another suggestion.


    A genius with both Fire and Wood Spirit Roots would be very suitable for Alchemy and Artifact Refining. If they could nurture a Third Rank Alchemist or Artifact Refiner for the family, he himself could pass away after several decades, turn into a handful of yellow soil, and still die without regrets.


    The Second Elder''s proposal was approved by everyone.


    After all, not having seen the person in question, there was some measure of trepidation in their hearts.


    In the past, there had been asions of mistaken Spirit Roots, so it was not unprecedented.


    "Father, Great-Grandfather, apart from Shitao''s issue, Shiming has something even more important to report!"


    "Oh? Then speak!" Everyone was also surprised to hear that Lin Shiming had more important news to share, as the Transmission Talismans they had received only mentioned the discovery of a new Dual Spirit Root talent within the family.


    "It might also be necessary to inform the old patriarch!" Lin Shiming hesitated for a moment and then slowly began to recount what had happened at Peach Blossom Valley.


    His expression grew more serious as he mentioned the Red-haired Demon Monkey; after all, it was a Second Rank Supreme Grade demon monkey, and its fur coloration was unusualpared to the typical yellow-haired variety.


    In his opinion, it was very likely to have undergone a mutation, just like his own Golden Winged Mantis.


    This was not to be underestimated.


    The elders said nothing for a while, hesitating, clearly indicating that the old patriarch had something difficult to discuss.


    After a moment of contemtion, Lin Shiming realized it might have something to do with rumors, so he didn''t insist any further.


    He took out the spirit bottle that held the Monkey Wine from that day.


    "Please, Second Grandfather, have a taste!" Second Elder Lin Yuqi didn''t hesitate, taking the spirit bottle, pouring out a small drop of Spiritual Wine, and using telekinesis to send it into his mouth.


    Lin Yuqi closed his eyes, savoring the effects of the Spiritual Wine carefully. After a few seconds, his eyes suddenly sprang open, bursting with sharp intensity as he spoke excitedly:


    "This is Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spiritual Wine with effects that enhance one''s cultivation!"


    "No, it also has a remarkable healing effect, not inferior to Intermediate Grade Healing Pills!"

 Chapter 11 - 11 Rewards

    <h4>Chapter 11: Rewards</h4>


    "Shiming, where did you get this wine from?"


    "How many people know about it?"


    "How much is left?"


    The Second Elder took a deep breath, his eyes filled with urgency as he asked three questions in quick session.


    The other Elders too stretched their necks as if they were eager to crowd around and grab Lin Shiming by the cor to demand answers¡ªif it weren''t for the fact that he was their junior.


    A second-rank, inferior-grade Spiritual Wine, like the Spirit Pool on Fangmu Mountain, nearly bore the brunt of the Lin Family''s financial ie.


    Now, having discovered a second-rank, intermediate-grade Spiritual Wine with healing effects, the profits were unimaginable!


    "Reporting to Second Grandfather, currently, only I am aware of this matter. Furthermore, there is plenty of this Spiritual Wine..." Lin Shiming recounted everything he had seen, heard, and thought in Peach Blossom Valley, sparing no detail.


    Especially the second-rank, superior-grade Spirit Peach Tree and the second-rank peak, potentially mutated species¡ªthe Red-haired Demon Monkey, Lin Shiming was extremely meticulous, emphasizing the importance of these discoveries.


    For a moment, everyone inside the Treasure Pavilion held their breath.


    It took a long time before anyone spoke; they were all immersed in the information they''d just received.


    This tsunami of news was astonishing!


    Even dozens of second-rank, inferior-grade Spirit Peach Trees now seemed trivial inparison!


    A second-rank, intermediate-grade or higher Spirit Vein, a second-rank, superior-grade Spirit Peach Tree, second-rank, intermediate-grade Spiritual Wine, and even second-rank, superior-grade Spirit Fruit!


    Each of these, even on their own, would be worth thousands upon thousands of Spirit Stones.


    Of course, with great profit came great risk.


    The strength of the Demon Monkey troop was clearly not weak!


    As the core of the Lin Family, the Great Elder was the first to regain hisposure, speaking with a stern expression:


    "Hou Shou, close off the Treasure Pavilion, and hang a notice for a three-day closure!"


    Lin Houshou didn''t dare dy for even a moment, his entire being numb from the news. Having an order to follow was a wee distraction for him.


    That imposing figure, towering and majestic in the eyes of all the Lin Family''s young disciples, now had the thought, "I should be the one guarding the door."


    The main door closed with a click, and still, no one spoke.


    As the highest authority and the most powerful person present, the Great Elder spoke again:


    "Hou Yuan, as the current Family Head of the Lin Family, you manage all matters!"


    "Furthermore, no one must utter a single word about today''s events, not even to their own spouses or children!" Lin Yuqing swept his formidable gaze over everyone before waving his hand to signal Lin Houyuan toe forward and take charge.


    Lin Houyuan didn''t hesitate; he took a deep breath and began to make arrangements:


    "Esteemed uncles and Elders, we havee to the most important moment for our Lin Family. Since our esteemed ancestor left the Qingxuan Sect to establish the Purple Mansion Family, it has been five generations, well over three hundred years!"


    "Now, we have fallen to the status of a mere Foundation Establishment family, and even that position is unstable¡ªit is due to our dereliction of duty, for which we... all bear responsibility!"


    "But now!" Lin Houyuan raised his voice.


    "We have reached the most crucial moment for the Lin Family; I hope all uncles and Elders will spare no effort and work together wholeheartedly!"


    "We shall heed the Family Head''s decree and do everything within our power for the rise of our family!"


    All the Elders replied in unison with fervent looks in their eyes.


    "Second Elder, take this Spiritual Wine to Seventh Uncle to see if it can alleviate his chronic ailment. Even the slightest relief would do, and we might be able to obtain second-rank, superior-grade, or even peak second-rank Spiritual Wine!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Great Elder, please recall the Demon Hunting Team. Use the discovery of a dual Spirit Root genius as a pretext to re-examine all mortals within the Lin Family''s domain in search of more individuals with Spirit Roots! Remember not to reveal any information about Spirit Peach Valley."


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Fourth Elder, you take charge and arrange the purchase of arge number of Spirit Talismans, and on the pretext that the family has discovered a formation prodigy, recall the Third Elder!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Sixth Elder, effective immediately, all of Lin Family''s guard duties on external missions are canceled!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    All those who were called promptly gave their affirmative responses; the people of the Lin Family, the spirit of the Lin Family, at that moment, everyone''s spirit in the venue was united.


    "Everyone, whether the Lin Family can overturn the situation, whether the old patriarch can regain hisbat strength, it all hinges on this!"


    ...


    After a round of mobilization, all the Elders left, the situation having arisen suddenly.


    However, they could not afford to be unprepared for what was toe because of its suddenness.


    In the end, only Lin Houyuan remained, looking at his son who stood as tall as him, those sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes reminded him of his own younger days.


    Yet, the current Lin Shiming was doing far better than him during his youth.


    And Lin Houyuan, too, could proudly announce his son''s name to everyone.


    "Shiming, your father is proud of you, and the family is honored by you. Now, let''s talk about your rewards!"


    "Before this journey, you may choose a Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact from the family''s inventory! Also, 500 contribution points!"


    "After this journey, you will receive half of the profits from the Peach Blossom Valley!"


    "Thank you, Father. Thank you to the family!" Lin Shiming quickly expressed his gratitude. A Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact could be worth at least a few hundred Spirit Stones, and the better ones could even cost over a thousand Spirit Stones.


    To know that theter-stage cultivators in the family would typically use amon Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact, as for Loose Cultivators,ter-stage ones were probably using Second Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts!


    Being able to choose a Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact, the reward was indeed generous!


    Not to mention the five hundred contribution points and half of the profits from Peach Blossom Valley, this was even a massive fortune.


    The profits from the Spiritual Wine and Spirit Peaches alone could bring in a few hundred Spirit Stones in revenue each year, probably enough to make even theter-stage cultivators or Elders in the family a bit envious!


    Lin Shiming''s eyes zed with eagerness; although this operation was somewhat risky, the profits were undoubtedly huge.


    Lin Shiming no longer needed to worry about his inability to sustain the Golden Winged Mantis, an eater of considerable appetite.


    "Shiming! What I just said was as the Family Head, now as your father, I have something else to tell you!" Lin Houyuan changed his tone, his gaze seemingly filled with reminiscence.


    "This family, your father can still withstand it, you, you''ve grown up!"


    "But, you must protect yourself at all costs, next time, do not take such risks!" At the end of his speech, Lin Houyuan''s gaze brimmed with tenderness, the meticulous man appearing to have a glint of tears in his eyes at that moment.


    Indeed!


    All the Elders were fixated on how vast Peach Blossom Valley was, the profits, and how many people knew about it!


    But not one of them showed concern for him, for how he found Peach Blossom Valley, for how he emerged from the presence of a peak Second Rank Demonic Beast, or for the extent of his injuries.


    Immortal Cultivation, immortal cultivation, stripping away the identity of a Qi Cultivation fifthyer, Lin Shiming was merely a seventeen-year-old youth!


    "Here, take this set of Superior Grade Inner Armor!" Lin Houyuan directly took off a piece of Spirit Armor from his body and handed it to Lin Shiming.


    "Father, this..." Lin Shiming was deeply moved, but at the same time, he hesitated; this Inner Armor was Lin Houyuan''s personal armor, it could save his life at a critical moment.


    It was far more precious than dozens of Superior Grade Spirit Talismans!


    "What are you hesitating for when the size fits so well? The men of our Lin Family are not so indecisive!" Lin Houyuan said with augh as he chided.


    Lin Shiming no longer put on airs, and after receiving the still-warm Spirit Armor, he bowed deeply.


    "Father, I will not disappoint you!"


    "One day, I will take over the Lin Family, and I will ensure the Lin Family''s legacysts forever!"

 Chapter 12 - 12 Snake Vine Flower Seeds

    <h4>Chapter 12: Snake Vine Flower Seeds</h4>


    The Treasure Pavilion was empty, with Lin Shiming the only person inside.


    Lin Houyuan had already left, initiating a war campaign wasn''t a trivial matter after all.


    As the Family Head, he had to coordinate everything. This also signified that the decision-makingyer of the family was shifting from the generation of those named ''Yu'' to those named ''Hou''.


    Lin Houshou walked past the door and patted Lin Shiming on the shoulder with one hand.


    "Goodd, well done!"


    "Second Uncle tters me, Shiming still has much to learn from you!" Lin Shiming humbly replied.


    After a brief conversation, Lin Shiming followed Lin Houshou to the third floor of the Treasure Pavilion.


    Compared to the familiar first and second floors, this was Lin Shiming''s first visit to the third floor.


    He couldn''t help but think about that doubt that had lingered in his mind since childhood.


    Whether the old Family Head, who was over 150 years old, was actually healing on the third floor. However, it clearly was not the case.


    The rooms on the third floor were smaller, built entirely out of a type of spiritual wood unknown to him, but the carvings and decorations were more abundant. And all the decorations followed specific patterns, with some even exuding Spirit Might.


    It was obviously aplex Formation that Lin Shiming didn''t understand!


    "You little rascal, follow me closely, and don''t touch anything carelessly. All these carvings are part of the Formation, even the ones without Spirit Might!" Lin Houshou turned his head and warned Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming nodded.


    After entering the wooden room, what caught his eye was a row upon row of ancient disy shelves, all made from fine, dark heavy ironwood, nurtured by Spirit Formations, which made them seem even more vibrant with Spiritual Energy.


    But the shelves seemed somewhat empty, not disying too many items.


    "Shiming, don''t be fooled by the sparse-looking ironwood shelves. At its peak, our Lin Family filled this ce with Third Rank treasures!" Lin Houshou exined proudly, apparently noting Lin Shiming''s confusion.


    Lin Shiming was also aware that after a series of changes, the Lin Family had initially broken the streak of Purple Mansion cultivators during the ''Ming'' generation. They had spent most of their foundation to obtain the Purple Heart Spirit Fruit to break through to the Purple Mansion Realm.


    But to their dismay, things fell short, the foundation was nearly depleted, and that ''Ming'' generation ancestor died in gloom not long after.


    During the ''Xian'' generation, to have a Foundation Establishment Cultivator in the family again, they started trading all of their remaining resources for Foundation Establishment Pills. Fortunately, Elder Lin Xianzhi''s promotion was sessful, allowing the Lin Family to retain the title of a Foundation Establishment family.


    Lin Shiming followed Lin Houyuan to the front of the wooden shelves.


    The shelves were divided into two rows, one disying the Foundation Establishment Stage portions of Yellow Rank Techniques. Thetter part of Lin Shiming''s Qing Mu Art was also here.


    The other row showcased the Lin Family''s Spirit Weapons and Spirit Talismans.


    Lin Shiming was here this time to select a Spirit Weapon.


    All the Spirit Weapons were covered with a specific light shield of Spiritual Power, intended to prevent the loss of Spiritual Energy from the weapons, affecting their strength.


    Lin Houyuan was at the very front, introducing each item to Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, this is the Qing Que Sword, an absolute masterpiece among Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifacts. It is forged from Qing Que Profound Iron, extremely sturdy, and for cultivators of the Wood Attribute and Water Attribute, it can amplify their Spiritual Energy several times over. A single sh, evente-stage Cultivators would have to dodge!"


    "This one is the Fire-returning Fire Sword, another masterpiece, but not suitable for you!"


    "This one is the Heavy Water Profound Mountain, extremely powerful. Once unleashed, it transforms into a giant mountain. Very few enemies can withstand it. However, the drawback of this Profound Mountain is that it consumes too much Spiritual Energy. But for you, it can still serve as a trump card."


    ...


    Lin Houshou introduced them one by one, and Lin Shiming considered each in turn. Although there were not many Magic Artifacts, all were meant for offense.


    However, just then, the system notification appeared once again.


    "Please choose a pile of seeds that seem useless, and you will obtain snake vine flower seeds that rival supreme grade magic artifacts!"


    Lin Shiming was already prepared to choose the Profound Water Chong Shan, but he hastily stopped upon this prompt from the system.


    He began searching again on the wooden shelf, going around one circle, then two.


    This made Lin Houshou somewhat unsettled.


    Skimming through items at such speed, was he selecting treasures?


    Just as Lin Houshou was about to lecture Lin Shiming, he saw Lin Shiming stop excitedly next to a small box in the corner.


    The small box had no lid and not even a spiritual power light shield; inside were more than a dozen dark and unslippery-looking pills, as if they were discarded elixir pills.


    "Second Uncle, I choose this one?" Lin Shiming picked up the box, thrilled.


    This was something that couldpare to a supreme grade magic artifact, something he could use as his trump card.


    "Shiming, are you sure?" Lin Houshou asked, perplexed.


    "These are just useless pills that have been identified by generations of elders in the pavilion!"


    "This is it, Second Uncle. I feel that this seed artifact suits me very well." Lin Shiming replied firmly, holding the box, full of joy.


    "Are these seeds?" Lin Houshou asked in confusion, then waved his hand and generously said:


    "Youd, although I don''t know what you''re nning, I won''t let you be at a disadvantage. Here''s what we''ll do: you choose one superior grade magic artifact, and with fifty contribution points, you can exchange for these seeds!"


    "As treasures from the third floor, I can''t be too arbitrary and drive the price too low."


    "Thank you so much, Second Uncle!" Lin Shiming quickly expressed his gratitude. Fifty contribution points? He would be willing even if it were five hundred!


    Then, Lin Shiming chose that one piece of Profound Water Chong Shan, a mighty weapon.


    As a trump card, of course, it needed to have great power. At a crucial moment, it would be a battle-decider. He had the Wood Vine Technique, so choosing Profound Water Chong Shan could not be more appropriate.


    Lin Shiming took out the Profound Water Chong Shan from the spiritual power light shield.


    The entire Chong Shan was bronze in color, notrge, just palm-sized.


    When he held it in his hand, he only felt a terrifying gravity reaching his palm.


    He nearly dropped it to the ground, which greatly startled Lin Shiming.


    This gravity¡ªno wonder this magic artifact had so impressed Lin Houshou.


    To think this was without inputting spiritual power, which when added, would increase the weight a hundredfold.


    If it were to be dropped, even a second rankte-stage powerful demonic beasts would probably not withstand the impact!


    If it were to fall on a cultivator, Lin Shiming couldn''t imagine any chance of survival they might have.


    "Thank you, Second Uncle, for allowing me to acquire several treasures!" Lin Shiming bowed in thanks, then he took out a small wine jug and handed it to Lin Houshou.


    "Second Uncle, this is the Monkey Wine I have captured; most of it has been handed over, but this is what I''ve kept for you!" Lin Shiming initially didn''t give it to avoid making Lin Houshou embarrassed, creating a situation where the family head''s son was bribing the pavilion''s guardian.


    But after taking the treasures, giving it then became a gesture of respect for an elder.


    "Good!" Lin Houshou also did not hesitate and epted it with a relieved face.


    He looked at Lin Shiming with increasingly satisfied eyes.


    Having acquired two treasures, Lin Shiming then redeemed several Spirit Talismans from the Treasure Pavilion, especially the second rank, superior grade Water Shield Talisman, for which he spent another two hundred and fifty contribution points to buy one.

 Chapter 13 - 13 The Wonderful Uses of Wood Vine Technique

    <h4>Chapter 13: The Wonderful Uses of Wood Vine Technique</h4>


    Behind Fangmu Mountain, there is a Nameless Mountain that also belongs to the territory of the Lin Family of Fangmu Mountain. Compared to the towering Fangmu Mountain,


    Nameless Mountain seems quite small and even barrenpared to other hills, with sparse trees and mostly wild grasses that grow vigorously every year.


    In the grasnd, a young man in a green shirt is holding a box, deep in thought.


    Beside him, a golden mantis is devouring its food heartily, alternating between bites of monkey meat and sips of Spirit Water. Even some Spiritual Wine is nearby, making the mantis appear somewhat drunk and unsteady, its triangr head swaying.


    This is Lin Shiming, who had left the Treasure Pavilion.


    Lin Shiming had to test out magic artifacts, and naturally, he couldn''t experiment in Fangmu Mountain.


    Now assigned to guard Qingtao Mountain, Lin Shiming was also free to leave Fangmu Mountain.


    "Infusing it with Spiritual Energy doesn''t work either. So where is the problem?" Lin Shiming, holding a ck seed in his hand, had been experimenting for a long time without sess, yet he didn''t believe that the system''s prompt could be wrong.


    But the truth was, like everyone else from the Lin Family, he was at a loss with the seed.


    Neither refining it nor stabbing it with a knife or spear had any effect.


    It waspletely imprable.


    "No, this is a Snake Vine Flower seed!" Suddenly, Lin Shiming recalled something. He knew that his Wood Vine Technique was used to catalyze the growth of normal vine seeds.


    The Wood Vine Technique itself was a unique kind of spell within the wood-based spells, but the vines produced by the Wood Vine Technique could easily be torn and it was impossible to use them to bind an opponent of the same rank.


    However, the marvel of the Wood Vine Technique was its ability to infuse Spirit nts'' seeds with energy and catalyze them, unleashing the seeds'' power in an instant!


    Once this urred to him, Lin Shiming couldn''t wait to infuse the Snake Vine Flower seed with Spiritual Energy.


    But this infusion made Lin Shiming jump in shock, as he saw the Spiritual Power within his body being drawn out almost entirely in the blink of an eye.


    "This!" Lin Shiming''s face turned pale in an instant.


    Such rapid extraction of Spiritual Power, despite Lin Shiming being prepared, still overwhelmed his body momentarily.


    However, upon thinking that these seeds wereparable to Supreme Grade magic artifacts,


    Lin Shiming was able to understand it. After all, he was only a Qi Cultivation Fifth Level cultivator himself.


    Lin Shiming didn''t dare to release the catalyzing effect of the Wood Vine Technique right away.


    Catalyzing would also consume Spiritual Energy. He took out a Jade Bottle from his Storage Bag and poured a big mouthful of Spiritual Wine into his mouth.


    The Spiritual Energy of the wine was instantly absorbed by his body, providing Lin Shiming with a great amount of Spiritual Power and even repairing the hidden injuries Lin Shiming had sustained from previous cultivation mistakes.


    Indeed, besides healing injuries, Monkey Wine could also quickly restore Spiritual Power.


    This was the second benefit Lin Shiming discovered.


    After a few moments, once Lin Shiming felt that much of his body''s Spiritual Power had recovered, he then began to release the catalyst of the Wood Vine Technique.


    As the catalyst was released, arge portion of his Spiritual Energy was again drawn out, forcing Lin Shiming to take another sip of Spiritual Wine, making his eyes blur slightly with the effect.


    The seed in front of him suddenly burst forth with a massive amount of Spiritual Power, followed by numerous ck auras surging and transforming into a huge Snake Vine.


    In the blink of an eye, it grew to over thirty meters in length.


    The Snake Vine was covered in thorns, pitch-ck in color, as thick as arge tree,pletely surpassing the limits of any ordinary vine.


    The Wood Vine swayed in the air with the wind, menacing and terrifying!


    At the very tip of the Snake Vine was a huge and enchanting Snake Vine Flower.


    The Snake Vine Flower, as big as a human face, opened ferociously and spat out arge amount of venom, corroding away the surrounding vegetation.


    The corrosion area directly extended for thirty or forty meters in width, turning everything in its path into wastnd.


    The might of the Snake Vine Flower truly exceeded Lin Shiming''s imagination, exciting him beyond measure. With the seeds of the Snake Vine Flower in hand, he even dared to confront an average Qi Cultivationte-stage cultivator or Demonic Beast head-on.


    Of course, the Snake Vine Flower was not something to be used carelessly. Lin Shiming''s current Spiritual Energy at the fifth level of Qi Cultivation wasn''t enough to fully activate it even once; he still needed to take a couple of swigs of Spiritual Wine.


    In a real fight, the enemy certainly wouldn''t wait for Lin Shiming to take a couple of drinks before starting.


    However, Lin Shiming thought again that once his cultivation level improved, releasing ten seeds of the Snake Vine Flower, who would then be able to contend with him?


    With that thought, Lin Shiming took out his Spiritual Wine and took two big swigs with gusto.


    Now his strength had grown far more than before, and if his cultivation were to rise further, his power would increase several fold.


    "Chirp chirp chirp!" The Golden Winged Mantis, seemingly upset that Lin Shiming had drunk quite a bit of its rations, started chirping loudly and eventuallynded on Lin Shiming''s shoulder.


    The Golden Winged Mantis had grown in size once again. Landing on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, it nearly took up all the space, making his shoulder feel quite heavy.


    Lin Shiming reached out to stroke the Golden Winged Mantis''s golden triangr head and said with a smile:


    "You little bug,peting for food now? Don''t worry, I''ve still got ten catties of Spiritual Wine left, and when we go to Peach Blossom Valley, we can get some more!" Lin Shiming thought of the Monkey Wine from Peach Blossom Valley and felt an itch in his hands.


    Sunrise shone high, and havingpleted his morning cultivation, Lin Shiming put away the Golden Winged Mantis, took out his Green Spirit Sword, and flew back on his sword.


    This time, Lin Shiming went to see the Second Elder to inquire if there was any elixir that could elerate the mantis''s growth.


    But he learned that the Second Elder had gone straight to the Hall of Transmission, which was responsible for instructing new family disciples with newly tested Spirit Roots.


    Lin Shitao and Lin Shizhong were all present.


    These were the people Lin Shiming had brought with him, and he instantly felt the desire to see how they were doing.


    However, upon arrival, he saw the Second Elder personally taking on the role of instructor, exining important points about cultivation techniques to them.


    The kindly Second Elder, when teaching the techniques, often mentioned some peculiar Spirit Fruits and immortal elixirs from the Cultivation World, inciting immense curiosity in these children who had just been exposed to immortal cultivation for a day. They were eager to turn twenty so they could take up their Spirit Swords and step into the Cultivation World.


    Embarking on an epic treasure-seeking adventure.


    "Second Grandpa!" Taking advantage of the break, Lin Shiming stepped forward to pay his respects.


    He had great respect for this Second Elder!


    After all, the Second Elder had once been a talent whom the Lin Family was willing to nurture for Foundation Establishment with all their might. But seeing that the Lin Familycked a distinguished alchemist and didn''t even have an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Alchemist, the Second Elder decisively gave up most of his time for cultivation at thirty years old and turned to practice Alchemy. He visited countless renowned Alchemy masters, attended numerous Alchemist exchanges, and finally stepped into the realm of a Superior Grade Second Rank Alchemist at the age of fifty.


    Indeed, if it weren''t forcking the Spiritual Power to establish a Foundation, he''d have a certain grasp on Third Rank elixirs.


    Unfortunately, twenty years had slipped by, and his cultivation had fallen greatly behind, barely reaching the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation at the age of sixty-one, losing the chance for Foundation Establishment.


    Today, his philosophy remained unchanged. As the once-Purple Mansion Family and now Foundation Establishment Family, how could they fail to produce even a Superior Grade Second Rank Alchemist?


    "Shiming, you came to see them!" Lin Yuqi''s smile remained from start to finish.


    After a few words of casual conversation with the Second Elder, Lin Shiming greeted Shitao and Shizhong as well.


    Lin Shiming also learned from the Second Elder that while the Lingtao wine was useful for ordinary injuries, it was still helpless against the old patriarch.


    However, Lin Yuqi suggested that if Intermediate Grade Spiritual Wine was ineffective, perhaps Superior Grade Second Rank Spiritual Wine might work.


    Of course, Lin Shiming didn''t forget the purpose of his visit but was regretful to learn that such a medicinal pill was only avable at the Spirit Beast Sect, which was guarded by Golden Core ancestors.


    Meanwhile, the expedition was set to depart on the third day!

 Chapter 14 - 14 Departure

    <h4>Chapter 14: Departure</h4>


    Qingtao Mountain, the spring rain pattered, peach blossoms began to bloom, a riot of splendid purples and reds.


    The Spirit Peach Tree, full of buds, had finally started to bloom.


    Lin Shiqi stood under the tree, letting the spring rain wet her ck hair and soak her skin.


    At this moment, she felt so real, and so wonderful.


    Thatposed and steady seventh brother was not here, making this spring rain the first to witness her sessful transntation of a Spirit Tree on her own.


    Yes, this was her first time transnting a Spirit Tree, before this she had only transnted Spirit Grass and Spiritual Medicine.


    When she heard the Family Head ask her to transnt the Spirit Tree, she was undoubtedly nervous, and undoubtedly excited.


    Transnting a Spirit Tree was not like transnting Spiritual Medicine or Spirit Grass, the need for Spiritual Energy as well as the reliance on soil and terrain were iparable to the same rank of Spirit Grass and Spiritual Medicine, when she taught Lin Shiming how to transnt, she exined each word and sentence so that she would not make a mistake herself.


    Now, atst, she had managed to uphold her second sister''s prestige!


    Just then, Lin Shiqi looked up to see a huge Flying Sword in the sky, flying through the air, leaving behind a long trail of Spirit Light as it passed.


    Soon, a giant sword carrying more than twenty peoplended in front of Lin Shiqi.


    "Family Head, Great Grandfather, Second Grandfather, Third Grandmother, Fourth Grandfather, Sixth Grandfather!" Compared to the boys of the Shi generation, Lin Shiqi, as the first big sister of the Shi generation, preferred to call these kind Elders Grandfather.


    "Shiqi, there haven''t been any big issues recently, and no cultivators havee here, right?" Lin Houyuan asked with a serious expression.


    "No!" Lin Shiqi did not know what had happened at that time, as Lin Shiming had not said much to her before he left.


    However, seeing everyone so serious, and at the same time,pletely ignoring the peach tree she had transnted,


    She also knew there must be some important matter, likely rted to Lin Shiming, and this annoyed her that Lin Shiming had not informed her.


    "Alright, everyone rest for half a day! Meanwhile, all uncles and Elder rtives, let''s consecrate and practice the new Small Five Elements Diamond Formation we''ve acquired," Lin Houyuan said, leading the group towards the wooden houses on Qingtao Mountain.


    This Small Five Elements Diamond Formation was a Second Rank, Superior Grade Trapping Formation, controlled by formation gs. Compared to formations reliant on Spirit Veins, this type of formation g-controlled formation required a person with profound magic power to operate.


    To deal with the Second Rank Supreme Grade Demonic Beast, and so many Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beasts.


    It required five Elders at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level to control it.


    Before leaving, the Family Head did not forget to leave a word.


    "Shiqi girl, don''t stand in the rain next time, it''s bad for your health."


    The group entered three wooden houses, and Lin Shiming was among them.


    Lin Shiming stayed in one wooden house with the others of the Shi generation. There were four members of the Shi generation who hade to the expedition in Peach Blossom Valley this time.


    The leader of the Shi generation was a young man with a square face, wearing his hair tied with a ribbon. This person was Lin Shiqi''s eldest brother, a dual spirit root genius with both Fire and Wood Spirit Roots, Lin Shijie.


    Now 25 years old, he had already broken through to the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level.


    He was also held in high expectation by the family, never burdened with menial tasks, yet his Spirit Stone stipend was much more than the other descendants of the Shi generation.


    At the same time, he had another identity, the grandson of Lin Yuqi. However, in the eyes of Lin Shiming and others, Lin Yuqi did not seem to show much affection towards Lin Shijie.


    This had been a strange fact since they were young, Lin Shijie also did not care much for his own grandfather, Lin Yuqi.


    Of course, this doesn''t mean that Lin Shijie was known among his generation to have a bad temper. On the contrary, he took great care of all the peers of his generation.


    Following him was the second oldest, Lin Shiyi, a sturdy man with triple Spirit Roots of metal, earth, and wood. Cultivating the Lin Family''s Falling Dust Technique made him known as the one with the strongest defenses. At 24 years old, having reached the Sixth Level of Qi Cultivation, he was also considered a prodigy.


    This burly man''s greatest pleasure in life was sparring with his Big Brother, though he always ended up defeated and covered in dust.


    Next to Lin Shiyi was the fifth oldest, Lin Shimo, the least talkative among the Lin Family siblings of his generation. His taciturn nature was so pronounced that it would make Lin Shiming shake his head in disapproval.


    However, Lin Shimo''s strength was also formidable; he was a ruthless man who dared to sleep with corpses.


    The cultivation technique he practiced was not one passed down by the Lin Family but the Corpse Training Decree he chanced upon from a loose cultivator.


    These three were the greatest hopes of the Lin Family''s current generation and were known as the Three Heroes of the Lin Family!


    As for Lin Shiming, despite his strong affinity, due to the less formidable power of the Qing Mu Art and his slightly inferior strength, he was affectionately known as Little Hero!


    Of course, that was in the past. Now, Lin Shiming, though not confident he could defeat Lin Shijie, was still confident that he was on the same level as Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo.


    Lin Shiqi ran in from outside, ignoring Lin Shijie and the others, and went straight to Lin Shiming.


    "How could you, Little Seventh, leave me behind to nt trees for you without telling me?"


    Seeing some anger in Lin Shiqi, Lin Shiming quickly disclosed everything about the Peach Blossom Valley.


    After all, Lin Shiqi yed a role in discovering the Spirit Monkeys.


    "Alright, stop maligning Little Seventh. Keeping it a secret was a request from the family elders. Now, everyone sit down and start cultivating to ensure you''re in peak Spiritual Energy state! Once the Family Head and the others finish preparing the Formation, we will set off," Lin Shijie hurriedly intervened to mediate the situation.


    As the big brother, he naturally understood the character of his third younger sister.


    The few of them quickly sat down to cultivate, and after their Spiritual Power was fully replenished, two hours had passed.


    Seeing that the Elders nearby still had not moved, Lin Shiming also began to exin the strengths and weaknesses of the Demonic Monkey to everyone.


    So they could be better prepared in advance.


    Especially Lin Shiyi, though his magical power was profound and his defense formidable, speed was his weakness.


    He wouldn''t want to suffer a major setback as soon as he entered the fray.


    Apart from that, Lin Shiming took out four sks and gave each person an ounce of Monkey Wine.


    Known as a seed for Foundation Establishment of the family, Lin Shijie was already aware of Monkey Wine''s existence, but Lin Shiyi was not.


    With an excited expression, he said,


    "Not bad, Little Seventh, you know how to fortify courage with liquor." As he spoke, he was about to pick up the sk to drink.


    "Wait, Second Brother, this is Spiritual Wine for replenishing Spiritual Power and healing injuries!" Lin Shiming quickly added.


    His supply of Monkey Wine was limited, and he couldn''t afford Lin Shiyi squandering it carelessly.


    This Spiritual Wine could save lives at critical moments.


    And just then, a Transmission Talisman fluttered in.


    "Set off!"

 Chapter 15: The Formation of the Little Five Elements

    <h4>Chapter 15: The Formation of the Little Five Elements</h4>


    Outside Peach Blossom Valley, a group of disciples in green robes walked side by side, their steps quick yet extremely cautious.


    The Great Elder at the forefront asionally transmitted his voice to exin the experience of hunting to the crowd behind him, particrly to the five disciples of the "Shi" generation.


    On this campaign, there were a total of five elders and Lin Houyuan, the Family Head, all of them Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators.


    Apart from them, there were also ten disciples of the "Hou" generation¡ªhalf were from the hunting team, the other half were the heads recruited from the Lin Family''s various market shops.


    Their cultivation levels ranged from Qi Cultivation Fifth Level to Eighth Level. There were four at the Eighth Level: Lin Houyong¡ªthe eldest of the Hou faction, Lin Houshou¡ªthe second, Lin Houyu¡ªthe fifth, and Lin Houwen¡ªthe ninth.


    Next were three individuals at Qi Cultivation Seventh Level, including Lin Houwei.


    Then, there were two more disciples of the Hou faction at the Sixth Level.


    Below them were the five disciples of the Shi generation.


    "Grandfather, we''re nearly there!" Lin Shiming eximed as he caught a glimpse of the entrance to Peach Blossom Valley beyond a mushroom-shaped hill, addressing Lin Yuqing.


    "Grandfather, that Red-haired Demon Monkey is truly formidable. Please be fully prepared," Lin Shiming said again.


    "Rest assured, your grandfather isn''t senile yet. I won''t be negligent!" Lin Yuqing nodded and then spoke to everyone else.


    "Alright, proceed as nned!"


    All of them elerated their pace. Being close to the boundary of Qingyun Mountain Range, they needed to finish the battle quickly to avoid attracting more Demonic Beasts.


    Upon reaching the valley entrance, all Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, excluding the Great Elder, formed a semicircr perimeter around the entrance.


    Array gs continuously flew from the hands of the elders into the ground, transforming into streams of light.


    Then countless Spirit Stones were also thrown from their Storage Bags, embedding themselves in the earth.


    In the blink of an eye, hundreds of Spirit Stones wereid down, an extravagance that made Lin Shiming gasp.


    At the same time, his mind eased significantly; with such preparations, even if the Red-haired Demon Monkey had extraordinary abilities, it faced certain death!


    Furthermore, Lin Houshou, a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Array Master, also took out array gs and chose a side position to start deploying them one by one.


    The other cultivators took out their own Magic Artifacts and Defense Talismans, ready to deliver a fatal blow to the troop of yellow-furred Demonic Monkeys at any moment.


    Another incense stick''s time passed, and a n member emerged from the concealment of the woods¡ªthe scout that the family had freshly arranged.


    "It''s confirmed, there are no other hidden dangers!"


    Upon seeing this, the Third Elder Lin Yushui leisurely took out a flute. After receiving a nod from Lin Yuqing,


    she began to y a slow tune.


    "Kid, that''s the Third Elder''s Chaotic Beast Flute!" Lin Shiming observed with a puzzled look.


    Lin Houwei casually took a swig from his wine jug by his side.


    The odd thing was, there was no wine in the jug¡ªnaturally, he couldn''t drink at such a time.


    But just by pretending to take a pull from the empty jug, Lin Houwei seemedpletely refreshed.


    His whole body suddenly released an aura, an intimidating Spiritual Pressure burst forth.


    In the distance, as the flute''s melody drifted!


    Shrill and frenzied monkey cries surged like a tide.


    Then, at the valley entrance, one yellow-furred Demonic Monkey after another appeared, wielding huge pieces of wood.


    They had fearsome expressions, their eyes filled with madness and bloodlust, they shrieked and swarmed forward!


    And behind the twenty or so yellow-furred Demonic Monkeys, the Red-haired Demon Monkey was even more ferocious.


    Wielding a giant ck club, it charged at the Third Elder Lin Yushui as soon as it appeared.


    In a single bound, it leaped tens of meters, outstripping all the yellow-furred Demonic Monkeys, and with a terrifyingly powerful swing,


    it aimed to kill Lin Yushui and smash that detestable and grating flute in one blow!


    Can''t block it!


    At this moment, everyone felt that even the Intermediate Grade Second Rank Defense Talismans couldn''t ward it off.


    "Stop ying the flute and form the array!" In the nick of time, Lin Yuqi hastily yelled out.


    Each of the five Elders unleashed a spiritual g.


    The gs transformed into a five-colored mysterious barrier, responding to the Formation gs buried in the ground, intertwining spiritual light began weaving through the air, and in the blink of an eye, a massive golden light shield was formed.


    ng!


    A deafening metallic ng, as if to shatter Lin Shiming''s skull.


    It nearly made Lin Shiming lose his bnce.


    The Mini Five Elements Vajra Cover sessfully wrapped around the Red-haired Demon Monkey, but the bad news was that because of its frenzied burst out, only more than half of the Yellow-haired Demon Monkey was covered by the Vajra Cover.


    Meanwhile, both the Red-haired and Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys inside the Vajra Cover were furiously swinging their clubs and smashing against the Vajra Cover.


    With every strike, the color of the Vajra Cover faded a shade.


    "Everyone, don''t be stingy with your spiritual power, give it your all. This demon monkey is about to break through to a Third Rank Demonic Beast!" Lin Yuqing''s face was filled with solemnity.


    Then, with his body shing with spiritual light, as a cultivator who specialized in body cultivation, he directly charged into the Vajra Cover and began a bloody struggle with the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The five Elders controlling the Formation were also continuously forming hand seals.


    It wasn''t for nothing that the Mini Five Elements Vajra Cover had such a formidable reputation¡ªit was not only a trapping formation!


    As the Elders'' mouths moved slightly, the hundreds of Spirit Stones previously embedded in the ground emitted fierce light, as surges of spiritual power poured into the Vajra Cover, transforming into five sharp des.


    They shed towards the horde of demon monkeys.


    ...


    "Quickly deal with the remaining dozen or so demon monkeys!" Seeing that the Elders and the Family Head were surrounding and attacking the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the majority of the Yellow-haired Demon Monkey, Lin Houyong, the eldest of the younger generation of the Lin Family, swiftly gave themand.


    Various colorful magic artifacts bombarded the Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys in an instant.


    Lin Shiming was witnessing the hunting team''s reputation for the first time, with each magic artifact being immensely powerful and radiating spiritual light!


    Especially their methods, after unleashing their magic artifacts, they almost immediately threw all sorts of talismans without a break.


    Once the talismans were used up, they were already prepared with a second kind of magic artifact, and this second kind was even more insidious¡ªthere were Flying Needle artifacts, silver thread artifacts, and even Poison Hooks!


    An entire set of attacks came down, and surely not many Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys could withstand it!


    However, the speed of that group of monkeys still exceeded everyone''s expectations, especially since a few of them were clearly in theter stages.


    A single leap, and they instantly dodged!


    Without the chaos of the demon flute, the wisdom of these monkeys was equally significant, so this devastating set of attacks barely managed to kill a few mid-stage Spirit Monkeys.


    The dispersal of the Spirit Monkeys increased the difficulty of the Lin Family Cultivators'' group attacks.


    "Everyone, spread out and kill them, we cannot let a single demon monkey escape, nor can we allow them to return to Peach Blossom Valley!" Peach Blossom Valley was now almost under the Lin Family''s mark, and naturally, the Lin Family would not let these monkeys continue to wreak havoc.


    And while Lin Shiming and the other younger disciples of the Lin Family were growing impatient, they quickly charged out to attack the Second Rank mid-stage Demonic Beasts.


    Among them, Lin Shijie with his Fire-returning Sword was specially targeting Second Rankter stage Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys.


    Lin Shiming was not falling behind either. He threw out arge handful of vine seeds, then with a flip of his hand, he cast a spell, and a sea of vines burst forth, entangling multiple demon monkeys.


    In the blink of an eye, many demon monkeys were killed by the hands of the Lin Family''s cultivators.


    However, just then, from within the Peach Blossom Valley, another sharp and piercing monkey howl sounded, followed by a huge Red-haired Monkey bursting out.


    The enormous ck iron rod turned into a dark shadow, ferociously smashing towards the people.


    "No good, there''s another one, everyone retreat quickly!" Lin Houyong''s expression darkened instantly, as he shouted out repeatedly.

 Chapter 16: Great Victory

    <h4>Chapter 16: Great Victory</h4>


    Though not asrge as the one before, it too emitted the formidable aura of ate-stage Second Rank.


    For the cultivators at the sixth and seventh stages of Qi Cultivation to be approached so closely by such a formidable Demonic Beast was a catastrophic disaster.


    The only thing they could manage was to release Defense Talismans of the superior grade of the Second Rank to save their lives.


    However, the nearby strike of an iron rod,pared to a distant throw, was at least several times more powerful. With a booming crash, the Spirit Shield shattered.


    The iron rod, carrying its terrifying momentum, continued to sh down. Several cultivators from the Lin Family at the sixth and seventh levels were smashed into a pulp, their paths ended and their bodies perished.


    "Quick, into my Formation!" Without time to mourn, Lin Houshou shouted loudly and with a sweep of his hand, he released a dreadful superior-grade ice-based Spell Talisman.


    Countless ice cones viciously struck at the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Yet, the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s skin, covered with red fur that shimmered with a red glow, seemed to imitate red Spirit Armor. Even the superior-grade ice cones of the Spirit Talisman could not prate the body of the Demonic Beast; they could only rely on the freezing effect to slow down the pursuit of the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The remaining people, no longer hesitating, crazily bolstered their light body techniques or flew directly on their swords, darting into the Spirit Formation.


    The Spirit Formation created a massive shield of Spiritual Power. Unlike the minor Five Elements Formation, this Formation was known as the Profound Turtle Formation, which only had defensive properties and no offensive capabilities.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey roared angrily and charged towards the minor Five Elements Vajra Cover.


    Behind it, those Demonic Monkeys that had just tried to flee, now crazily shouted and also attacked the minor Five Elements Formation.


    "No, we absolutely cannot let this beast outside break the minor Five Elements Spirit Formation!" Lin Houwei understood that being besieged within the Five Elements Formation was certainly a critical moment for the Red-haired Demon Monkey. They absolutely couldn''t afford to be disturbed and have the Formation broken. If that happened, with two frenziedly fast and powerfully violent Red-haired Demon Monkeys, no one would be able to withstand them!


    Inside was a Demonic Beast approaching the Third Rank!


    "A few ''Shi'' generation youngsters, stay here well!" Lin Houshou shouted loudly, unexpectedly being the first to take the initiative and rush out of the Formation towards the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The other three cultivators in the eighth level of Qi Cultivation of the ''Hou'' generation also followed without the slightest hesitation. With the ninth level elders of the Lin Family not present, it was their inescapable duty!


    No family doesn''t practice Immortal Cultivation, an evesting legacy left through the ancient times!


    "I''ll go as well, you guys stay behind!" Lin Shijie holding the Fire-returning Fire Sword, in an instant his fire-based magical power surged.


    The Fire Sword flew out, shing madly at the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    In this battle, he, Lin Shijie, would fight for his family; he wanted to let everyone know.


    That he, Lin Shijie, wasn''t just someone who grew up under the shelter of his family. At this moment, he was fully capable of protecting his family!


    As for Lin Houshou''s words, they had already been ignored by him.


    And almost at the same time, Lin Shiyi with hisrge ck face and Lin Shimo, stepping on a ck coffin, also charged out.


    "Shiming, you''re only at the fifth level of Qi Cultivation, you stay behind!"


    Leaving this message behind, they had already rushed towards those Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys.


    If they couldn''t stop the Red-haired Demon Monkey, at least they were determined to tear apart a few Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys with their own hands.


    And the rest of the ''Hou'' generation also did not continue to stay within the Formation. If the minor Five Elements Formation copsed, with two Red-haired Demon Monkeys present, none could escape.


    Lin Shiming naturally also understood this principle. He took out a wine jug and took a sip of Monkey Wine to replenish his Spiritual Power.


    "Shiming, give me a sip too, I''ve exhausted a lot just now!" Lin Houwei also came over to ask for a sip of Monkey Wine, then once again bravely charged back out.


    Inside the minor Five Elements Formation, the Great Elder was bathed in blood, his hands holding a pair of Supreme Grade Magic Artifact gauntlets, not knowing how many punches he hadnded on the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey was beaten to constant wails, while the other Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys were effectively restrained by the Spirit des of the five Great Elders'' Formation.


    Now all they wanted was to kill this Red-haired Demon Monkey and then go out to tear the Red-haired Demon Monkey outside to thousands of pieces!


    Every second of dy could mean the death of another n member.


    Seeing the plight of the Red-haired Demon Monkey inside, the Red-haired Demon Monkey outside roared to the sky once more, its gigantic iron rod raised high.


    It aimed to smash the Vajra Cover with a single blow, and the spot where it struck was precisely where Lin Houyuan, the father of Lin Shiming, was located.


    Lin Houshou and five other Qi Cultivation eighth level cultivators released several Magic Artifacts together, killing towards the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Lin Shijie''s fiery red Spirit Sword transformed into a ten-meter giant fiery sword and shed down fiercely.


    However, although there were many attacks, none had a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey swept its arm, sending most of the magic artifacts flying, and withstood the rest with brute force.


    "Not good!" Everyone''splexion changed dramatically as they saw the blow about to hit Family Head Lin Houyuan.


    But at that moment, Lin Shiming suddenly leaped in from the side, took a fierce swig of his drink, and then pinched a spell seal and shouted angrily.


    "Vicious Snake Vine Flower, arise!"


    A massive vine uncoiled from the ground and in a blink of an eye, it turned into a three to four-meter thick giant ck thorn snake vine.


    It directly ensnared the Red-haired Demon Monkey in mid-air.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey struggled frantically, but to no avail and could only throw its iron rod in a fit of rage.


    Goodbye, the golden light dissipated, and the small Five Elements Vajra Cover Formation had already been lifted; the Great Elder stepped on the body of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and the other Elders also immediately deployed their tactics.


    First came several Defense Talismans shaped like light shields, followed by a bombardment of Superior Grade Magic Artifacts.


    The iron rod was sted away.


    While the Demonic Beast struggled frantically in the sky, the massive Snake Vine''s thorns pierced fiercely into its body, only to be blocked by a red light.


    The Snake Vine seemed unable to withstand the immense force, numerous cracks appeared in it, seemingly on the verge of breaking at any moment.


    A gigantic ck thorn flower had alreadynded on the Demonic Beast''s head.


    Pressing against its head, it spewed poison venomously!


    The ck venom, possessed with the determination to corrode everything, poured down.


    "Roar!"


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey howled in agony as the red light on its body faded.


    After spewing a mouthful of poison, the spiritual power of the Snake Vine was depleted, and it vanished.


    Before the Red-haired Demon Monkey could revel in its crazed joy, the Great Elder''s Iron Fist, with a towering blood light, smashed down again.


    Together with the assistance of the other Elders, the Demon Monkey, now without the protection of its red hair, soon perished, its head directly severed.


    With the death of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, the situation suddenly cleared up, and the remaining yellow-haired demon monkeys were no longer a concern.


    All Lin Family members transformed into demonic monkey executioners.


    One after another, the yellow-haired demon monkeys were in, none escaping with Ninth Layer Elders on hand.


    Lin Houyuan nced at Lin Shiming and, seeing thetter''s pale face, gave an approving smile.


    Just a while ago, he had been telling this child that his father could still hold on!


    Yet now, Lin Shiming had proven to him that he too was capable!


    Feelings of relief and pride surged in Lin Houyuan''s heart.


    The rest of the Lin Family n looked at Lin Shiming in a new light; his strength was so formidable that even Lin Shijie had to treat him seriously.


    And to think, Lin Shiming was only at the Fifth Rank of Qi Cultivation!


    After the battle, everyone was exhausted and there was no joy in their victory, especially among the younger generations, as several of their closestpanions from the past had fallen.


    "This time, it''s my fault," the Great Elder also stood there somewhat deste, as the tactics he issued had failed to trap so many yellow-haired demon monkeys and not quickly killed the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    "Eldest uncle, you''re not wrong; this time, we''ve won a great victory!" Lin Houyuan suddenly spoke out loud.


    "Now this Spirit Peach Valley belongs to us, andter I will give all of you the opportunity to search for Spiritual Objects in Peach Blossom Valley, except for the Spirit Peaches and Spiritual Wine, you may keep whatever else you find!"


    "Furthermore, Third Aunt, please go to the trouble of setting up arge Formation in Peach Blossom Valley to conceal the fluctuations of spiritual energy in this ce!"

 Chapter 17: Obtaining a Young Demon Monkey Again

    <h4>Chapter 17: Obtaining a Young Demon Monkey Again</h4>


    With Lin Houyuan''s words, the faces of the Lin Family disciples finally showed a slight improvement.


    Two second-rankte-stage demon monkeys have appeared in Peach Blossom Valley; that''s not as simple as the second-rank intermediate grade spirit vein previously mentioned by Lin Shiming¡ªit must be at least a second-rank superior grade spirit vein.


    And as a second-rank superior grade spirit vein, it naturally contains more than just Spirit Peach Trees and Spiritual Wine.


    The phrase from Lin Houyuan that the gains would be their own, how could it not please them?


    Lin Shiming, Lin Shiqi, and other ''Shi'' generation cultivators walked together, discussing for a while before preparing to explore separately.


    Peach Blossom Valley is notrge, but it is also not small.


    However, before this, Lin Shijie and others also expressed great interest in Lin Shiming, and their opinion of the Qing Mu Art, which they once considered a method for the elderly, changedpletely.


    "There is nopletely weak cultivation technique in the world, if there is, it''s because the cultivator hasn''t utilized it fully," said Lin Shiming, plunging several into deep thought with his words.


    Indeed, there is no strongest cultivation technique!


    Only the most suitable cultivation technique!


    For example, letting Lin Shijie cultivate such a slow and prolonged method does not suit his impetuous and sweeping nature; it would be impossible for him to cultivate in a manner so smooth and unobstructed, and reach the eighth level of Qi Cultivation by the age of 25.


    The ''Hou'' generation also entered Peach Blossom Valley with Lin Houwei being the first to rush in. Although the Spiritual Wine must be handed over, taking a tiny sip was something the family would not pursue.


    Lin Shiming also parted with Lin Shiqi in the end and entered Peach Blossom Valley on his own.


    As he entered Peach Blossom Valley, the system prompt appeared again.


    "Please head north to find a warm cave, and you will obtain a demon monkey cub with enormous potential!"


    The system''s prompt made Lin Shiming happy again¡ªa demonic beast cub with huge potential.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but think of those two red-haired demon monkeys!


    Just right, two making a pair; the chances were high that their cub might have great potential!


    Lin Shiming suppressed his excitement. His interest in exploring Peach Blossom Valley surged, as a demonic beast cub with such great potential clearly held the highest value.


    Along the way, Lin Shiming directly controlled his Flying Sword, gliding through the Peach Blossom Forest.


    Approximately half an hourter, Lin Shiming stopped next to a cliff.


    The cliff was over thirty meters tall, surrounded by steep rocks, perilous and rugged!


    In the middle of the cliff, there was a cave entrance three meters high.


    "This must be the cave indicated by the system," Lin Shiming scanned with divine sense and found no n members inside.


    So, he controlled his Flying Sword to fly up, directly into the cave.


    The cave was very tall, clearly to prevent other demonic beasts from entering.


    For a red-haired demon monkey with its jumping ability, this cave was a minor matter.


    Upon entering the cave, Lin Shiming found it to be extremely spacious, even if four or five people entered side by side, it wouldn''t seem crowded, and the rocks on both sides were as smooth as if they had been split by swords.


    Lin Shiming''s interest grew immediately¡ªit seemed that cultivators had stayed in this cave before.


    At the end of the cave, there was arge hall about ten meters in size; the red-haired demon monkey also clearly lived here.


    As he stepped into the hall, Lin Shiming felt an incredibly pure spiritual energy hitting his face.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t resist taking a breath in, and the Qing Mu Art automatically started refining it.


    Just this one breath made his Minor Cirction run twenty percent faster.


    "Such pure spiritual energy, could it be that the second rank superior grade Spirit Vein originates from this!" Lin Shiming thought excitedly in his heart.


    Lin Shiming looked around and saw that there wasn''t much in the hall, except for a small pool about three meters in diameter by the central stone wall, from which a faint white vapor slowly rose.


    Spirit Pool!


    Lin Shiming''s spirits lifted instantly as he understood that this was where the second rank superior grade Spirit Veiny.


    And this second rank Spirit Vein had already evolved into a tiny Spirit Pool!


    It was just like the Green Lotus Spirit Pool on Fangmu Mountain, although the Lin Family''s Green Lotus Spirit Pool evolved from a third rank intermediate grade Spirit Vein and was home to arge number of Green Lotuses.


    Of course, this Spirit Pool was also extremely precious. If some smaller families knew about it, they might take the risk of stealing or, if they put it on the market, it could sell for tens of thousands of Spirit Stones.


    However, such Spirit Pools were almost never for sale.


    "Ow!" A tiny cry sounded, and Lin Shiming found a nest-like structure in a corner.


    A red-haired monkey the size of a child was sitting there and crying pitifully.


    Lin Shiming was not unfamiliar with this kind of cry; the Golden Winged Mantises would cry just as urgently when they were hungry.


    "It really is a Red-haired Demon Monkey''s baby!" Lin Shiming approached the demon monkey and saw that it looked exactly like a Red-haired Demon Monkey, only miniaturized to a tenth of the size.


    The little demon monkey stared at Lin Shiming, visibly stunned for a moment, then its small face changed swiftly, bing ferocious, as it bared its tiny milk teeth and continuously waved its little ws.


    However, to Lin Shiming, this ferocity seemed almost adorably aggressive!


    Lin Shiming watched with interest and then, like feeding the Golden Winged Mantises, he took out a Jade Bowl and poured in a strand of Spirit Water.


    Still, the little monkey kept baring its teeth and screeching menacingly at Lin Shiming, clearly uninterested in the Spirit Water, but its body was involuntarily pressed up against the wall, with nowhere to retreat.


    Lin Shiming knew that the little demonic beast couldn''t be tricked, so he stepped forward and used the Wood Binding Technique to bind it, then clenched his teeth and dripped a drop of essence blood onto it.


    The drop fell into the Jade Bowl and he began to form hand seals, as streams of pure spiritual energy started to form a specific array within the Spirit Water.


    This was the mostmonly used Spirit Contract in the Cultivation World to establish a master-servant pact between a cultivator and a Spirit Beast.


    Of course, this Spirit Contract technique only worked on juveniles. The mature or powerful Demonic Beasts had solidified thoughts and mental strength; unless one had overwhelming strength, it would be impossible to tame them.


    Lin Shiming''s other Spirit Beast, the Golden Winged Mantis, was also bound by such a Spirit Contract.


    After forcibly feeding the Spirit Water to the little demon monkey, it fell into a deep sleep, and Lin Shiming casually put it into his Spirit Beast Bag.


    Now having two strong Spirit Beasts with potential made Lin Shiming feel a mix of emotion and, at the same time, added pressure.


    Another glutton to feed!


    Lin Shiming examined the nest again and discovered that the grass in the nest was not ordinary either, carrying strands of pure spiritual energy, and it too was a spiritual material.


    Naturally, Lin Shiming did not waste it, collecting it for future use or even to continue making a nest for the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    After ensuring that all the nest grass had been collected, Lin Shiming turned his attention elsewhere, thinking that with two big eaters to feed, he would have to find some ie, or he would be destitute!


    Lin Shiming then took out a Jade Bottle and collected a full bottle of Spirit Water, about two hundred catties, from the Spirit Pool. Seeing that the pool had visibly shallow, he stopped collecting.


    As for the Spirit Pool, it was to be handed over to the family. Lin Shiming had also heard that Spirit Veins could be relocated and transnted, but he was unsure if the Lin Family had the capability or the technology to do so.


    Besides, two hundred catties of Spirit Water, if exchanged for Spirit Stones, would be three thousand Spirit Stones.


    After collecting the Spirit Water, Lin Shiming was content, knowing that the Golden Winged Mantis wouldn''t need to worry about its food for a long time.


    But just as he was about to leave, the Golden Winged Mantis in his Spirit Beast Bag began chirping insistently, conveying to Lin Shiming that it wanted toe out.


    "Are there more treasures?"

 Chapter 18 - 18 Guess What I Found

    <h4>Chapter 18: Guess What I Found</h4>


    In the hall on the cliff face, Lin Shiming released the Golden Winged Mantis.


    As soon as the little mantis emerged, Lin Shiming used his body to block the Spirit Pool, to prevent the mantis from causing trouble there.


    However, it seemed he was wrong. The Golden Winged Mantis fluttered its wings slightly and soared towards a stone wall that Lin Shiming hadn''t noticed.


    "Huh!" Lin Shiming watched in astonishment as the mantis crashed into a section of the stone wall, creating a concave that was actually a small stone door, or perhaps one could call it a secretpartment.


    What was strange was that when Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense swept over this stonepartment, it seemed to be blocked by something, vanishing without a trace and without any feedback.


    If not for the Golden Winged Mantis, he truly wouldn''t have discovered this secretpartment.


    As thepartment opened, a rich aroma of Monkey Wine wafted through the air, rejuvenating Lin Shiming''s spirit.


    The Qi Cultivation of the fifth level within his body began to stir.


    It was a subtle sign of an impending breakthrough!


    Lin Shiming was stunned and then had a sudden realization.


    This must be where the Red-haired Demon Monkey brewed the Monkey Wine, and it certainly was Second Rank Superior Grade or above.


    It was just unknown how the Red-haired Demon Monkey had discovered this hiddenpartment.


    While Lin Shiming hesitated, the Golden Winged Mantis had already charged in and started feasting. However, after eating about two or three jin, the mantis emerged from thepartment gleaming in a golden brilliance, then wobbled onto Lin Shiming''s shoulder.


    After chirping for a long time, ity down to sleep and no matter how Lin Shiming called, he couldn''t wake it up.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to put it into the Spirit Beast Bag and walked over to the space in the stone wall, peering inside.


    He saw a bowl-like stone te inside, surrounded by the Spirit Grass that Lin Shiming had just collected. In the stone te itself, there were about ten or so jin of red Spiritual Wine left.


    The Spiritual Wine was so bright and inviting that it made one''s mouth water at a nce, and its fragrance pervaded the air, causing Lin Shiming to involuntarily swallow his saliva.


    At the bottom of the Spiritual Wine, there were several remnants of Spirit Fruits soaked in it.


    The closer to the Spiritual Wine, the richer the fragrance and the more astonishing the concentration of Spiritual Energy.


    After taking a deep breath, he felt that his Cultivation Level had made slight progress.


    "Second Rank Supreme Grade Monkey Wine!" Lin Shiming confirmed in his heart.


    He then took out a Spirit Vial and collected all the Spiritual Wine inside, including the remnants of the Spirit Fruits.


    After collecting the Spiritual Wine, Lin Shiming also collected the yellow Spirit Grass one by one into his bag.


    With the Monkey Wine gone, Lin Shiming finally didn''t have to resist the aroma''s temptation. After taking a few deep breaths, he removed the stone door. Although he didn''t know what material the stone wall was made of, anything that could make Divine Sense disappear without a trace certainly had to be an extraordinary Spirit Material treasure.


    Once back at Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming would certainly have to study more about the strange items and precious materials of the Cultivation World, so as not to repeatedly encounter treasures without recognizing them, suffering the loss of ignorance.


    The stone door was light, with a touch as smooth as jade in his hand, but beyond that, it possessed no other particr characteristics.


    Unable to deduce anything more about it, Lin Shiming collected the treasure, ready to explore the Peach Blossom Forest further.


    Knowing that most of the Spirit Water he harvested would be given to the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and that the harvested Spiritual Wine would surely be turned in, he contemted that the Supreme Grade wine could be key in healing the Great Elder.


    Lin Shiming, of course, would not be shortsighted enough to drink the Spiritual Wine himself, knowing that for a family to develop securely, the strongest fighting force was the key.


    Take the current situation of the Lin Family; if word got out that the Great Elder had unfortunately passed away.


    It was certain that within three days, members of other families would be sitting in the Lin Family Council Hall, brazenly discussing how to divide the Green Lotus Spirit Pool and the Lin Family''s territory.


    In Lin Shiming''s view, one could say the Cultivation World wasn''t that cruel, since family still existed, with blood ties bonding hearts and minds together.


    ```


    It is said that the Immortal Cultivation World is extremely cruel, because many cultivators, for the sake of profit and the path to immortality, betray their masters and ancestors, rob and plunder openly, and kill people to steal their treasures!


    Hence, power is the timeless truth.


    Lin Shiming flew out of the cave and searched continuously within the Peach Blossom Forest.


    The fruiting of the Spirit Peach Trees also signaled the withering of the peach blossoms; the pink beauty was temporarily gone, but the fragrance of the peach blossoms still filled the entire forest.


    There was a sense of artistic conception that seemed to say: "Even as flowers fall and turn to dust, their fragrance remains unchanged."


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s mindset was extremely rxed, with the family elders guarding from the outside and fruitful gains inside, his eagerness to search for Spirit Grass and nts had waned considerably.


    However, Lin Shiming''s luck was still not bad, after searching for half an hour, he found two Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Grasses and a fifty-year-old Red Ginseng. The Inferior Grade Spiritual Medicine, known as Huangqi Grass, wasn''t particrly valuable and was a main herb for Healing Pills.


    The fifty-year-old Red Ginseng was much more valuable, equivalent to the highest-priced herb among Second Rank Intermediate Grade, and could sell for at least one to two hundred Spirit Stones. If it weren''t for its age, it would be even more valuable!


    "Little Seven, guess what I''ve found!" Lin Shiming encountered Lin Shiqi under a wide and unremarkable peach tree.


    Thetter ran over with a smile and even carried a Spirit Beast Bag, shaking it vigorously in front of Lin Shiming.


    "I''ve got a Yellow-haired Demon Monkey cub, all covered in yellow fur, and it''s extremely strong, definitely not worse than your mantis!"


    As she said this, Lin Shiqi indeed took out the Yellow-haired Demon Monkey cub. This little cub was obviously born much earlier than the Red-haired cub Lin Shiming had, but even so, it was only about the same size as Lin Shiming''s Red-haired cub.


    "Then congrattions, Third Sister!" Lin Shiming congratted her with a wave of his hand. The Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys, at their peak, could reach theter stages of Second Rank Demonic Beasts, and theirbat power was also extremely strong; they were suitable for raising as Spirit Beasts.


    Therefore, Lin Shiming''s congrattions were genuine.


    However, Lin Shiming''s heart was still somewhat proud; these Yellow-haired Demon Monkeys, not to mentionpared to the Golden Winged Mantis, evenpared to the Red-haired Demon Monkey, were more than just a bit inferior.


    But he did not show it, for with Third Sister''s temperament, if she felt unhappy, she wouldter say he had to help her keep a secret, and that would be unbearable for him.


    "Let''s go, we''ve searched enough, let''s meet up with Grandpa and the others!" Lin Shiming suggested, and Lin Shiqi readily agreed.


    Together, they headed towards the tree of the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Peaches.


    Along the way, Lin Shiming also encountered Lin Shijie and others. The three had split up to search and were now gathering together, each with a pleased expression on their faces, yet they were holding back from showing it.


    Lin Shiming also understood that his own ability to obtain Red Ginseng meant that the others mustn''t be doing badly either.


    There must also be many who had managed to acquire Yellow-haired Demon Monkey cubs.


    Lin Shiming saw Uncle Thirteen Lin Houwei under a peach tree.


    Thetter had a flushed face, seemingly drunk. Upon seeing Lin Shiming, he greeted him, and finally even asked if Lin Shiming noticed anything unusual about him!


    Lin Shiming and the others naturally replied with a smile that there was nothing wrong!


    Only the smiling expressions made Lin Houwei suddenly feel very embarrassed.


    Soon enough, everyone reached the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Peach Tree, where all the elders were also gathering.


    "Father, Great Grandpa, Second Grandpa, Third Grandma, Fourth Grandpa, Sixth Uncle!" Lin Shiming greeted each in turn, and the other people also paid their respects to their elders.


    "You''re here; how did it go, did you find anything good?" Lin Houyuan asked the crowd.


    Immediately, everyone began to chat simply, but Lin Shiming noticed that the Great Elder, Second Elder, and others did not look too pleased.


    Even his father, beneath his smile, seemed to harbor a tinge of bitterness.


    "Father, I have an important matter that I need to report to you and the Elders!"


    ```

 Chapter 19 - 19 There is Still One Thing

    <h4>Chapter 19: There is Still One Thing</h4>


    In a stone hall by the wall, several middle-aged men followed a young man in green robes as they walked in.


    While taking everything in, their eyes almost unanimouslynded on the Spirit Pool.


    These people were none other than Lin Shiming and the Lin Family Head Lin Houyuan, as well as the various Elders.


    "Shiming, you are truly a blessing to our family!" the Great Elder was the first to praise with emotion.


    Although this small Spirit Pool was notrge, it was still possible to harvest some Spirit Water every month, and even the Green Lotus from Fangmu Mountain could be partially nurtured here.


    Of course, the most crucial point was that this was a Second-Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein.


    In the Cultivation World, if those with Spirit Roots were talents, then Spirit Veins were indeed the real territory.


    "It''s just a pity that the Second-Rank Superior Grade Spiritual Wine doesn''t have that much more healing ability than the Intermediate Grade Spiritual Wine!" The Second Elder also felt very happy, but when he thought of the Spiritual Wine previously extracted from the Second-Rank Superior Grade Spirit Peach Tree.


    His mood dropped quite a bit, which was why the Lin Family had made such a big fuss toe to Peach Blossom Valley.


    It was because they could find a way to heal the family''s only Cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    But now that they had failed, all they managed was to gain another piece of territory for the family; they didn''t even dare to sell the Spirit Peach Tree and its Spirit Wine openly.


    Without sufficient strength, unting this wealth was like a child walking through a market with a gold brick.


    "Fifth brother, are you confident about this Spirit Vein?" Lin Houyuan also spoke up to the Sixth Elder, who had been examining the Spirit Pool and holding an instrument tray.


    The Sixth Elder, named Lin Houyong, ranked fifth in the "Hou" generation, had a Third Spirit Root. His Metal Spirit Root from the Third Spirit Root was extremely pure, hence his talent was also very high. At 55, he had already be an Elder and was one of the Lin Family''s two most promising seeds for Foundation Establishment.


    He also had another identity; he was a Spirit-Seeking Master.


    Spirit Veins in the world are naturally nurtured and arise in coincidence with fate. Just as Spirit nt Masters are adept at handling Spiritual Medicine and Spirit nts, Spirit-Seeking Masters are skilled at finding Spirit Veins and transnting them.


    The reason why The Great Sects have been rising faster and their Spirit Veins getting better is precisely because they have arge number of Spirit-Seeking Masters. By spending a certain price to gather small Spirit Veins together, they can form a vast Spirit Vein.


    "This is a Second-Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, and it has even nurtured a Spirit Pool. I''m not sure!" Lin Houyong shook his head; he was only a Second-Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit-Seeking Master.


    The training of Spirit-Seeking Masters is several times more difficult than that of Alchemists and Artifact Refiners. After all, as difficult as it is to practice Alchemy and Artifact Refining, materials can still be found for practice, but Spirit Veins are different!


    "Then we can only wait until the Spirit Peaches mature and are transnted. Afterward, we''ll have to pay a great price to hire someone!" Lin Houyuan also sighed.


    "Father, all the grandfathers and Elders! Shiming has one more thing!" Seeing everyone reverting to their previous states, Lin Shiming did not hesitate and took out the Spirit Vial.


    As soon as the Spirit Vial appeared, an exceptionally rich aroma of wine spread out, followed by streams of pure Spiritual Energy gushing forth.


    "Is this a Second-Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine?" Trembling, the Second Elder walked up to Lin Shiming, took the Spirit Vial, looked at it, and after taking a deep breath.


    He burst outughing, "Haha, heaven has not forsaken our Lin Family. This is a Second-Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine with better healing effects. Among the Spiritual Medicine used, there are even Third-Rank Spirit Fruits!"


    The words of the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, exploded in the minds of all the Elders, followed by everyone''s jubtion.


    Second-Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine, thatpletely solved the problem of treating the old ancestor''s injuries.


    With the old family head well, and with Peach Blossom Valley as and with a Spirit Vein, it won''t be long before they could cultivate a second Cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Stage!


    "And of soaring dragons, this Peach Blossom Valley is our Lin Family''snd of soaring dragons!" The Great Elder also spoke up with exceptional cheerfulness, his smile beaming broadly.


    The family''s weakening influence over decades was not bent by others, but by these Elders, the ones with "Yu" in their names, their very own backs!


    The other Elders too were brimming with joy, a kind of tion they had never felt before.


    "Shiming, you truly are the lucky star of our Lin Family, the dragon among men destined to bring glory to our lineage!" All the Elders couldn''t stop singing Lin Shiming''s praises.


    This time, not only did theyplete their mission sessfully, it even seemed to surpass all expectations.


    "Family Head, I can''t stay any longer, we must hurry back to Fangmu Mountain to deliver it to Uncle Seven. Uncle Seven must be getting impatient!"


    Second Elder spoke urgently, as if any dy might lead to unforeseen idents.


    And the Uncle Seven he mentioned was none other than the old patriarch of the Lin Family, Lin Xianzhi, who was also Lin Shiming''s seventh granduncle.


    "Indeed, there''s no time to waste. The rest of us here, alongside Aunt Three, will suffice. Big Uncle, Fourth Uncle, Brother Five, you should escort them as well, to ensure that no idents ur!"


    "Agreed!" Great Elder Lin Yuqing also nodded in approval. After epting the task, Lin Houqing proposed that Lin Shiming should return with them.


    It would be a good opportunity for Lin Shiming to make an appearance in front of the old patriarch.


    Lin Shiming was only too happy to agree. He had been curious about this great uncle of his for a while, but even more than that, he felt a deep respect for him.


    This great uncle had reached the Foundation Establishment Stage at the age of fifty-seven and was now one hundred and fifty years old, having safeguarded the Lin Family for ny-three years.


    Leaving the stone chamber, Lin Shiming boarded Second Elder Lin Yuqi''s Flying Sword.


    His Flying Sword was a Second Rank Superior Grade artifact, which made it faster. Combined with his powerful strength at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, the journey back to Fangmu Mountain would take even less time.


    The Sixth Elder and Fourth Elder stood quietly to one side.


    It was Great Elder Lin Yuqing who then spoke,


    "Shiming, you are the first of the Shi generation to meet the old patriarch!"


    "And for that, I am grateful to you, great-grandfather!" replied Lin Shiming, obviously pleased. He had thought Lin Shijie would have met the patriarch by now. It seemed the elder''s wounds might indeed be grave.


    There had been news recently that Uncle Thirteen, Lin Houwei, had announced that the family would stake everything on a Foundation Establishment Pill in five years.


    And now, the family was exerting all its might to conquer Peach Blossom Valley.


    "You''ve earned it. And I''ve noticed that the spiritual energy in your body is almost at a boundary. Once you return, you should go into seclusion right away, and it may not be many days before you break through to the Sixth Level of Qi Cultivation!"


    "Thank you very much for the reminder, great-grandfather!" Lin Shiming nodded. His gains this time were indeed enormous, and he needed to take some time to assimte all of it.


    Breaking through his cultivation level was the most important thing right now.


    The journey was silent, and after about a day, Fangmu Mountain was finally in sight.


    The peak soared into the clouds, familiar mist enshrouded its midst, andpared to before, Fangmu Mountain seemed even more deste.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help feeling a tinge of sadness. After all, there were several uncles and elder rtives who would now forever remain just outside of the Qingyun Mountain range.


    They were the true heroes of the Lin Family!


    With a substantial number of cultivators withdrawn from the family, martialw had been dered on Fangmu Mountain from the day Lin Shiming and the others departed.


    As soon as Lin Shiming and his party appeared in the sky above, the waiting members of the Lin Family quickly noticed them.


    The first to appear was the Lin Family''s Fifth Elder, Lin Yuzheng, who had been called back to take charge of the situation on Fangmu Mountain during the family''s mobilization.


    "Big brother, how did it go?"


    "A great victory!"

 Chapter 20 - 20 What Defines a Family

    <h4>Chapter 20: What Defines a Family</h4>


    The morning in springtime on the summit of Fangmu Mountain was chilly, with dampness nketing thendscape. Drops of dew plummeted,nding on leaves, grass, and the ground.


    Lin Shiming stood at a corner of the mountain''s edge, gazing down at the mountain below, where a sea of clouds spread and rolled eastward.


    Further east, a glimmer of the early sun rose from the horizon, breaking through the sea of clouds in a spectacr disy.


    This was Lin Shiming''s second day back at Fangmu Mountain, and he had been instructed to wait here for further notice.


    In the distance, a Spirit Talisman flew in, transforming into a streak of me. Under the maniption of spiritual energy, it formed a string of text.


    "Hurry to Qinglian Pool, the old n leader summons you!"


    Lin Shiming dared not dy, applying a lightness spell to his feet, and headed towards a cobblestone path leading higher up the mountain.


    At a pavilion en route, a middle-aged man in blue robes awaited him, it was none other than the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi.


    "The old n leader is summoning you by Qinglian Pool, don''t make him wait too long!"


    "Yes, second granduncle," Lin Shiming nodded and then crossed the pavilion, continuing on his way.


    The further he walked, the more concentrated the spiritual energy Lin Shiming felt. Fangmu Mountain housed a third-rank Spirit Vein, and Qinglian Pool, derived from the vein, held the densest spiritual energy in the entire mountain.


    Soon, Lin Shiming saw a spirit pool about twenty meters in diameter. Compared to the Spirit Pool in Peach Blossom Valley, the one on Fangmu Mountain wasrger and the mist of spiritual energy thicker, presenting an almost supernatural fairnd to the senses.


    In the center of the pool, lush lotus leaves floated on the surface.


    Next to the pool, there was also a pavilion.


    A young man was seen fishing within the pavilion.


    However, what was strange was that the young man''s hair was as white as snow!


    "Are you the descendant of Hou Yuan?" The young man, noticing Lin Shiming''s arrival, lifted his fishing rod, then with a flip, stowed it away in his Storage Bag.


    "Responding to seventh great-uncle¡ªShiming indeed is!" By now, Lin Shiming had realized that the person before him, who appeared to be of simr age to himself, was actually the venerable n leader of the Lin Family, Lin Xianzhi.


    He seemed in much better condition than the rumors had suggested.


    "Come and sit," Lin Xianzhi said, taking a seat first at a stone table within the pavilion.


    On the table was a chessboard with white pieces evidently being dominated by ck, which continued to encroach upon them.


    Lin Shiming walked over and took a seat as Lin Xianzhi had indicated.


    In his mind, he pondered whether he was being asked to y chess.


    But to y chess, one could simply take the ck pieces and continue the encroachment.


    "Shiming, what do you think a family n is?" Lin Xianzhi spoke first, but his question didn''t concern the pieces on the chessboard.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming was momentarily stunned.


    What is a family n?


    This question left Lin Shiming unable toe up with an immediate answer.


    Cultivators often say, "Seek only the fate of immortality, do not question what lies ahead."


    One word, "seek", represents the active quest, the courage to lead, to dare to challenge the heavens and earth, to vie with the sun, the moon, and to struggle with the earth itself!


    If that''s the case, why consider whether the path ahead is a broad avenue or a thorny bog?


    Then what about the n? Lin Shiming''s thoughts were in disarray, unable to find a correct answer.


    Upon reflection, were the principles of the family that he had understood before truly correct?


    As people must have goals, what should be the goal of a cultivator born into a n?


    "No rush, take your time to think about it. Look at these white pieces, because they are not certain of victory, they haven''tunched a counterattack! Instead, they are continuously being consumed," observed Lin Xianzhi, seeing Lin Shiming''s hesitation and speaking again.


    Lin Shiming refocused his attention on the chessboard and discovered that, indeed, the main forces of the white pieces were still preserved; only the peripheral branches had suffered losses.


    However, achieving a sessful counterattack would be no easy feat, given the ongoing disparity in strength between the white and ck pieces.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help drawing parallels with the Lin Family, which had been weakening for many years as part of the Purple Mansion Family. How could this happen without someone behind the scenes steering the course?


    After all, the Lin Family possessed a Profound Rank Purple Mansion cultivation technique, capable of reaching the Purple Mansion Realm.


    He then thought of the Seventh Uncle Ancestor, who had always been suppressed, constantly recovering from his injuries.


    The Seventh Uncle Ancestor was waiting to heal and return to his peak, just like the Lin Family was waiting for an opportunity to rise, an opportunity to turn the tide.


    The intention of the Seventh Uncle Ancestor was now clear.


    The Lin Family had enemies¡ªand powerful ones at that¡ªevaluating Lin Shiming''s feelings and dependence on the family.


    Of course, this also meant that Lin Shiming was gradually moving up within the Lin Family''s hierarchy, heading towards a leadership role.


    In the world of cultivation ns, there are always some family members who are fixated on the path of immortal cultivation, believing that their family would hold them back before setting out alone to make their own way.


    There are three thousand paths to immortality; each chooses their own.


    This was not an umon urrence; one Spirit Root Cultivator, after helping his family be a Purple Mansion Family, left them, iming to fulfill the cycle of karma, never to return.


    For a family that had invested everything in cultivating a genius, this was nothing short of disheartening, yet they were helpless!


    "Replying to the Seventh Uncle Ancestor, Shiming is dull and can only understand that the family is the root. I was born here, raised here¡ªthe family is like my Dao heart!"


    "The family prospers, I prosper; the family declines, I decline!"


    "Therefore, Shiming wishes to be the family''s sharp sword, to cut down all enemies!" Lin Shiming spoke, each word deliberate.


    And it was at this moment that his concept of family became much clearer.


    Indeed, as a family cultivator, from birth, he had been with his family. To reach the true end of the immortal path, one could not escape the word "family."


    "Hmm! A much better answer than your father''s," Lin Xianzhi nodded, then continued to speak:


    "You probably guessed it. Our Lin Family has a powerful enemy, the Purple Mansion Family!"


    "I was injured by those people too, and they poisoned me with a peculiar toxin. Although I''ve been able to suppress and neutralize most of it over the past thirty years with the help of the Green Lotus Spirit Pool''s lotus roots and seeds, most of my meridians have been damaged and obstructed, and my cultivation level even began to regress, rendering me unable to take action!"


    "Fortunately, the Second Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine you brought back this time can treat internal injuries, regte meridians, and harmonize spiritual energy. I estimate that in no time at all, I should be able to recover to thebat power of the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage."


    "I called you here mainly to ask what reward you desire?"


    "Replying to the Seventh Uncle Ancestor, retrieving the Spiritual Wine was an effort by the entire family. Shiming only contributed a small bit of meager effort and dares not ask for a reward," Lin Shiming repeatedly waved his hands.


    After the family''s great victory, with seniors giving their all and unclesying down their lives, he dared not im credit for himself.


    He could not do such a thing either.


    "The family must have rewards as well as punishments. Since you won''t say, I shall give you a Second Rank Superior Grade Flying Sword then!" Lin Xianzhi did not wait for Lin Shiming to respond, but simply waved his hand, and a dark green small sword appeared in Lin Shiming''s hand.


    "This sword is called the Lotus Sword, used by me in my youth. It holds sentimental value for me now, so I bestow it upon you! I hope you will continue to strive and reach new heights!"


    "Additionally, you may cultivate here for a while and attempt to breakthrough to the sixth level of Qi Cultivation!"


    "Thank you, Seventh Uncle Ancestor!" Lin Shiming quickly waved his hands to express his gratitude and was thrilled with the elder''s suggestion to attempt a breakthrough here.


    To know that this Spirit Pool was a Third Rank Spirit Pool; cultivating and breaking through here not only doubled the speed but also made it easier to solidify the cultivation level.


    However, before that, Lin Shiming had two more things to ask.


    "Seventh Uncle Ancestor, there is an item that Shiming does not recognize, and I wonder if I might trouble you to help identify it." Lin Shiming took out the stone from the Magical Pavilion. He had initially wanted to search for information in the treasure hall''s library, but with the experienced Seventh Uncle Ancestor present, it made sense to have him take a look first.


    "Eh!" Lin Xianzhi took the stone and was obviously startled by its ability to absorb Divine Sense.

 Chapter 21 - 21 Inheritance Stone

    <h4>Chapter 21: Inheritance Stone</h4>


    Lin Shiming watched quietly by the side, while Lin Xianzhi continued to caress the small stone door that felt as smooth as jade.


    The stone door itself was a hiddenpartment, only half a meter square in size; it didn''t take long to examine it thoroughly in hand.


    Lin Xianzhi ced the stone door on the table without speaking, and from his storage bag, he took out a green stone and set it aside.


    Surprisingly, Lin Shiming''s divine sense was also absorbed by the green stone.


    Had he not seen it with his own eyes, Lin Shiming, confident in his divine sense, would absolutely not believe such an object existed before him.


    "Shiming, this thing of yours is most likely the inheritance stone of another family, and moreover, at least a Purple Mansion inheritance!" Lin Xianzhi''s mention of the Purple Mansion inheritancepletely stunned Lin Shiming.


    Purple Mansion inheritance, that''s at least a Profound Rank superior grade cultivation technique or secret technique. It''s said that the Lin Family only has two, one is a cultivation technique, and the other is a secret technique.


    A secret technique, also known as a pseudo-divine skill, can be mastered by at least a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Stage. Moreover, mastering a secret technique makes theprehension of divine skills in the Purple Mansion Realm clearer and more distinct, almost increasing the probability for a Foundation Establishment cultivator to advance to the Purple Mansion Realm by one level.


    "Did you also obtain this stone in Peach Blossom Valley?" Lin Xianzhi asked Lin Shiming about the origin of the stone door; a Purple Mansion inheritance involved considerable stakes, and it could easily be the object of covetousness.


    One must know that crimes of possessing precious treasures ur practically every day in the world of immortal cultivation.


    "Yes!" Lin Shiming didn''t hide anything and recounted the experience of how he obtained the stone door.


    He even allowed the patriarch, Lin Xianzhi, to take a nce at the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The patriarch Lin Xianzhi was so astonished by the Golden Winged Mantis that he asked about its origin.


    He never expected Lin Shiming to possess so many treasures.


    Naturally, Lin Shiming told everything, revealing the fact that he hade upon these items by pure chance.


    "You''re really lucky, this mantis has a great chance of reaching the peak of Second Rank among the Demonic Beasts in the future!" Lin Xianzhimented, giving what he considered an extremely favorable evaluation.


    Lin Shiming nodded and showed a surprised and delighted expression.


    Although he knew that the potential of the Golden Winged Mantis was far beyond just the peak of the Second Rank¡ªit was Third Rank.


    But he could not show it; not only would it be hard to exin, but he also needed to maintain a certain respect for his elder.


    "Shiming, every Purple Mansion Family, in order to prevent their legacy from falling into the hands of others, resorts to using secret spirit concealment techniques to create specialized inheritance stones. However, the ways to unlock these stones vary greatly, and even I have only seen two kinds. One involves using Spiritual Fire, and the other is our own Green Lotus inheritance stone, with unlocking methods rted to the Green Lotus!" Lin Xianzhi once again turned the topic to the inheritance stone, naturally needing a solution for the origin of the treasure Shiming inquired about.


    "Of course, it''s not to say that it can''t be forcibly opened¡ªit would require at least an Array Master of one rank higher, namely, a Fifth Rank Array Master!"


    "Mm, thank you, elder, for dispelling my doubts, Shiming understands!" Lin Shiming nodded, the excitement in his heart greatly reduced as he realized it was akin to a safe.


    It''s unknown which predecessor came up with such a method to protect an inheritance that can hide from divine senses.


    ced in some room, it would not attract attention at all, and without being members of the original family, it can''t be unlocked with a secret technique.


    Even if others obtained it, without the secret technique, they could only sell the inheritance stone.


    Otherwise, it''s not like they could just find a Fifth Rank Array Master of the Golden Core Realm to open it for them.


    "You could try searching around Peach Blossom Valley again; perhaps there still are remnants or possessions of that family''s descendants!" Lin Xianzhi suggested once more.


    Lin Shiming simply nodded and agreed, as there were no other options avable at the moment.


    But at least he knew now that it was a Purple Mansion inheritance.


    ```


    After identifying the treasure, Lin Xianzhi gave Lin Shiming a few pointers and then left.


    Lin Shiming remained in the pavilion, starting his cultivation and preparing for a breakthrough.


    The breakthrough of Lin Shiming to the fifth rank of Qi Cultivation didn''t take long, only about a year or so. Nevertheless, the fortuitous encounters he had these days, coupled with Spiritual Wine and Spirit Water, had filled his meridians with Spiritual Energy.


    Settling his mind and closing his eyes, Lin Shiming immersed himself in the cultivation of Qing Mu Art.


    ...


    Time passed unknowably, and when Lin Shiming opened his eyes, the Spiritual Energy surged within them, making them incredibly expressive.


    This was because Lin Shiming had just made a breakthrough and still couldn''t control his Spiritual Energy well, but he would adapt in a few days.


    Indeed, Lin Shiming had sessfully made a breakthrough to the sixth rank of Qi Cultivation. The next breakthrough would confront him with the significant hurdle of thetter stages of Qi Cultivation.


    Many cultivators in the Lin Family with mediocre talent were forever stuck at the sixth rank of Qi Cultivation.


    Never advancing any further, but the current Lin Shiming did not need to consider these matters as he was still young.


    Lifting his head, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but look towards the center of the pond, where he saw his seventh great-uncle sitting on a giant lotus leaf, with an immense amount of Water Spiritual Power surging into his body.


    "Is this the strength of a Foundation Establishment stage expert?" Lin Shiming''s heart shook tremendously, and the excitement of his breakthrough was somewhat diminished.


    However, the thought of one day achieving a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment himself filled him with a great sense of motivation.


    Lin Shiming reached to sp his hands together in a bow, and without waiting to see if his great-uncle took notice, he quietly left.


    After all, this was the n''s lotus pond, and the Patriarch was using this ce to heal his injuries with the aid of Spiritual Wine.


    It was better not to disturb them.


    Upon returning to his residence at Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming released the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    He then took out the Spiritual Wine and Spirit Water. As for the meat of the Demonic Beast monkey, it was no longer needed. Instead, he took out some Spirit Rice he had purchased, steamed it into rice, and fed it to the two beasts.


    After all, the Red-haired Demon Monkey was now his Spirit Beast, and giving it meat of its own kind would be inappropriate.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, after a few days of deep sleep, had grownrger once more. It seemed as if the Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine had elerated its growth.


    Its body had be roughly the same size as the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s and it could no longer perch on Lin Shiming''s shoulder.


    The Spiritual Power throughout its body had actually reached the strength of a Second Rank Inferior Grade Demonic Beast; with just a little more training, it could fight on Lin Shiming''s behalf, providing him with an additionalbatant.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, being the number one foodie, chirped excitedly as it began to drink the Spiritual Wine and Spirit Water and eat the Spirit Food, gobbling it down so eagerly that one might think Lin Shiming was mistreating it.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey, however, cowered on the side. Due to the Spirit Contract, it wouldn''t bare its teeth or grimace at Lin Shiming, but to be particrly affectionate all at once was clearly not possible.


    Nevertheless, seeing the Golden Winged Mantis enjoying its food more and more and the diminishing supply of Spirit Food and Spiritual Wine, the Monkey became anxious.


    It approached and pressed down on the Mantis''s increasinglyrge forelimbs, seemingly wary of getting shed by them.


    Only after ensuring it was safe did it let out a couple of wails and begin to eat.


    Naturally, the Golden Winged Mantis chirped angrily, but it stopped after being soothed by Lin Shiming.


    After feeding the Spirit Food, Lin Shiming prepared to leave. After all, he was supposed to be on guard duty at Qingtao Mountain, and now he was spending more time on Fangmu Mountain than on Qingtao Mountain, which was indeed a bit embarrassing.


    ```

 Chapter 22 - 22 Trouble in Peach Blossom Valley

    <h4>Chapter 22: Trouble in Peach Blossom Valley</h4>


    Spring had passed its midpoint, and it had been more than ten days since Lin Shiming returned to Qingtao Mountain.


    Peach blossoms had withered batch after batch, leaving only the scattered pink on the ground as the trees bore but few flowers now.


    In ce of the blossoms, clusters of green, unripe peaches had formed. The newly appeared fruit was oval-shaped, covering the entire peach grove.


    Of course, the most eye-catching were the two Spirit Peach Trees atop Qingtao Mountain. The fruit they bore was exceptionally crystal clear and full of spiritual energy.


    Lin Shiming counted them, finding that the Lin Family''s original old peach tree had produced one hundred and eighty peaches, which was a very bountiful harvest.


    As for the other Spirit Peach Tree that Lin Shiming had discoveredter, although it had been remedied and tended to by Lin Shiqi, it still bore only 108 fruits, which was less than half.


    Even so, Lin Shiming was very pleased. He owned thirty percent of this new peach tree, and with Second Rank, Inferior Grade Spirit Peaches roughly costing five to six spirit stones each, Lin Shiming had made an ie of 180 Spirit Stones.


    For him, who had to feed two big eaters, it was indeed wonderful news.


    The only down side was that his hard-won third sister, who had agreed to teach him the knowledge of Spirit nts for a month, was now conscripted by the Lin family to work in Peach Blossom Valley, caring for those Spirit Peach Trees.


    Moreover, it was said that the family''s brewmaster was also researching the brewing method for Monkey Wine there.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to exchange for some Spirit nt books from the family''s Treasure Pavilion and started studying on his own.


    Perhaps it was because his main cultivation technique was of the wood series, his progress in bing a Spirit nt Master was also extremely rapid, and his daily prompts had all be knowledge about Spirit nts.


    And now, he had even transnted a First Rank Spirit Grass, bing a First Rank Spirit nt Master.


    However, the Spirit Grass corresponding to a First Rank master was only helpful to Innate martial artists, so they weren''t very valuable.


    But Lin Shiming was quite enthusiastic about it, after all, it was a skill he had acquired. He couldn''t help but take out the Spirit Grass he had found nesting in Peach Blossom Valley.


    He inspected it closely, feeling that the Spirit Grass was full of spirit intelligence and might even be worth renting.


    However, what Lin Shiming had not expected was that the system prompt appeared once again.


    "Please ignite the Huangyun Grass to bake the Inheritance Stone, and you will obtain a Profound Rank, Superior Grade Purple Mansion Secret Technique!"


    Following the system''s prompt, Lin Shiming was both excited and filled with emotion, as if he had encountered an unlooked-for surprise after a long and fruitless search without any effort.


    Huangyun Grass was just an ordinary Second Rank, Inferior Grade Spirit Grass, yet it could be used inbination with an Inheritance Stone. Truly, in the world of immortal cultivation, one relied on both fate and knowledge.


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate, summoning a Fireball Technique to ignite the Huangyun Grass.


    Soon, plumes of thick yellow smoke rose, like yellow clouds reaching for the horizon.


    Lin Shiming ced the prepared Inheritance Stone above it, and as the ck stone surface was smoked by the thick fumes, it gradually began to turn jade-like.


    One spirit pattern after another vividly appeared on the surface of the jade stone, and then his Divine Sense encountered no barriers as it entered the inside of the jade.


    "Heaven Wood Spirit Seeding Great Method!" Lin Shiming learned the name of the secret technique, and he was overjoyed to find that it matched his practiced cultivation technique and spirit root perfectly.


    The function of this secret technique was to nt a spirit seed within one''s body, capable of storing three times more spiritual energy than the body could hold.


    It could be released at any time when needed!


    What did that mean?


    It meant that if Lin Shiming wished, he could simultaneously release three highly poisonous Snake Vine Flowers.


    Even for an ordinary person, if they possessed this secret technique, their battle power would increase several fold.


    The biggest disparity in the Qi Refinement Realmy in the storage of spiritual energy.


    Furthermore, this secret technique could be used as early as theter stages of Qi Cultivation and didn''t necessitate the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    In other words, this secret technique could contribute a ten percent efficiency boost to his breakthrough toward Foundation Establishment.


    Thinking about this, Lin Shiming''s heart rate unexpectedly quickened. The Heaven Wood Spirit Seeding Great Method was truly worthy of its name as a Profound Rank, Superior Grade secret technique.


    Now, he was eager to break through to the seventhyer of Qi Cultivation immediately and start practicing the Heaven Wood Spirit Seeding Great Method.


    But obviously, that wasn''t feasible. One could rush anything, but cultivation had to be like grinding tofu with water, a gradual progression. Given his Third Spirit Root aptitude, he also couldn''t speed up the process.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but think of the Lin Family''s remaining two Purple Mansion inheritances, and his interest immediately surged.


    It was a pity that the Lin Family''s techniques required one to be at the Foundation Establishment Stage to cultivate.


    Of course, at the moment, Lin Shiming was also considering whether he should report this secret to elevate the family''s foundation.


    But not to mention that aside from himself, there were few in the family who practiced wood-element cultivation techniques, and even if word got out, he couldn''t exin how he knew the secret method to unlock the Inheritance Stone.


    After much thought, Lin Shiming decided not to inform his family for the time being. Once he became powerful enough, he would then feed the information back to the family!


    As the Purple Mansion Cultivation Technique issue came to a close, Lin Shiming was left with no other concerns and his interest in bing a Spirit nt Master waned considerably, preparing himself to fully immerse in arduous cultivation.


    He aspired to reach theter stages of Qi Cultivation within three years.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming also started entertaining the idea of purchasing elixirs for his practice.


    Normal cultivation, even with system prompts increasing his speed, was akin to a drop in the ocean for Lin Shiming.


    Although Spirit Pills were known to have some pill toxins, asional consumption coupled with the use of Spirit Water should not have much impact. The major families certainly all did the same.


    With that thought, Lin Shiming decided to visit the Cultivation Market the next day.


    Within the Lin Family''s territory, only Xing County, owned by the Lin Family, had a Green Lotus Market for Loose Cultivators and some small Cultivator Families from other counties to trade. However, the market was a bit far from Qingtao Mountain and required three continuous days of flight.


    Even with a Second Rank Superior Grade Lotus Sword, it would take two days.


    On the other hand, the Hetian Market in the neighboring Hetian County was considerably closer, just a half day''s journey away.


    The Wang Family of Hetian Market and the Lin Family were both rtively weak Foundation Establishment Families with a verbal alliance, so Lin Shiming felt somewhat assured regarding the Wang Family.


    Just then, a rainbow light shed across the sky, and a delicate figure descended from the heavens in utter disarray.


    Looking closely, it turned out to be Lin Shiqi, who should have been in Peach Blossom Valley.


    Lin Shiming quickly mounted his Flying Sword to catch Lin Shiqi.


    Thetter, clutching Lin Shiming''s clothes and with a voice hoarse with urgency, said,


    "Shiqi, hurry! Go and tell great-grandfather and second uncle that Peach Blossom Valley is under attack!"


    Lin Shiqi''s eyes were brimming with tears, her urgency extreme, her spiritual power depleted, clearly over-exerted and having forced an overspending to control her Flying Sword.


    "The Family Head and Third Elder are in dire straits!"


    "So, you''ve run here!" Lin Shiming still wanted to ask more, but he only heard a voice from the sky.


    A cultivator in a yellow robe drifted down, nced at Lin Shiming, and then disdainfully said,


    "So, a mere Sixth Layer Qi Cultivation junior is your reliance?"


    "Who are you!" Lin Shiming red coldly at the yellow-robed cultivator, his eyes terribly frosty.


    "I am..."


    Just as the yellow-robed cultivator was about to answer, he saw a dark green sword light sh out and cut towards him with the speed of lightning.


    His face changed instantly; he did not expect Lin Shiming to attack directly.


    In a hurry, he barely managed to release his Spirit Sword, only to be swept away by Lin Shiming''s Lotus Sword.


    The superior grade Spirit Sword''s power revealed itself in an instant.


    The yellow-robed cultivator was quick to react as well, swinging out his arms as two Flying Swords flew from his sleeves. Although not superior grade Spirit Swords, his Qi Cultivation Seventh Layer cultivation base still stabilized him.


    However, Lin Shiming''s means of attack were more numerous than expected!


    Lin Shiming waved his sleeves, and dozens of Spirit Talismans flew out of his hands!


    "A Luomu Family cultivator is really poor, to bring out such low-grade Spirit Talismans!" the yellow-robed cultivator mocked, not stopping his hands as he took out two Spirit Talismans, one water shield, and one golden shield.


    What he didn''t notice was the Wood Vine Technique seeds mixed in with Lin Shiming''s Spirit Talismans!

 Chapter 23: The Might of Profound Water and Heavy Mountains

    <h4>Chapter 23: The Might of Profound Water and Heavy Mountains</h4>


    The cultivator in the yellow robe was confident with the protection of two Spirit Talismans, one Superior Grade and one Intermediate Grade.


    Believing he was cautious enough not to fail unexpectedly, he even used a Superior Grade Spirit Talisman against a mid-stage cultivator.


    As all of Lin Shiming''s lower-rank spells were dissipated, the cultivator in the yellow robe summoned back the three Spirit Swords, each mirroring the talismans with one Superior Grade and two Intermediate Grades.


    The intense glow of dawn indicated he was a cultivator with powerful Fire-Element Technique.


    "Wood Vine Technique, arise!" At this moment, Lin Shiming was as calm as a cold-blooded machine.


    With a wave of his hand, countless wooden vines shot up towards the cultivator in the yellow robe to entangle him.


    The cultivator in the yellow robe was visibly shocked, the ease in his eyespletely vanishing.


    The three Spirit Swords danced in the air, leaving a trail of sword shadows.


    The sky filled with vines was sliced into pieces, falling to the ground in segments.


    Unlike with Demonic Beasts, the cultivator''s Spirit Swords caused great trouble for Lin Shiming, who had previously been unstoppable with his vines.


    "So little strength! Just die!" The cultivator in the yellow robe shouted angrily, as the three Spirit Swords shed towards Lin Shiming in a line.


    The Superior Grade Spirit Sword led the front while the Intermediate Grade ones followed, emitting a terrifying streak of sword light.


    But at that moment, Lin Shiming took out a gourd and swallowed a mouthful of Monkey Wine.


    His spiritual power instantly recovered, and he formed a spell gesture with both hands!


    "Venomous Snake Vine Flower, arise!"


    Unlike themon vines, the Venomous Snake Vine Flower almost instantly transformed into a towering giant vine.


    The cultivator in the yellow robe managed only to take out a Spirit Talisman to shield himself, but the Snake Vine Flowers easily prated it and tightly coiled around him!


    "You want to die too!" said the cultivator in the yellow robe, utterly baffled.


    How could Lin Shiming dare?


    Exchange a life for just an injury?


    How could a cultivator at the sixth level hold off a seventh-level cultivator''s equivalent Flying Sword, plus two Intermediate Grade ones, with just a Superior Grade Lotus Sword?


    However, the answer to this was Lin Shiming''s cold smile at the corner of his mouth.


    One could see that the peach trees seemed to usher in springtime again, with peach blossoms reviving and blooming one after another, forming a Sword of Peach Blossoms.


    This was the Three Profound Peach Blossom Formation that the Lin Family set up on Qingtao Mountain.


    The cultivator in the yellow robe was indeed cautious, never descending from the sky and always attacking with full force, but the Three Profound Qingtao Formation, an Illusion Array integrated with an attack Formation, had the strength to attack of its own volition!


    Emanating immense spiritual power, the Sword of Peach Blossoms surged forward at Lin Shiming''s coldmand, taking on the cultivator in the yellow robe''s Spirit Swords.


    Lin Shiming''s Lotus Sword closely followed, leaving behind a long trail of dark-green sword light.


    ng!


    With a resounding sh, all the Spirit Swords were repelled backward.


    Especially the two Intermediate Grade Spirit Swords of the cultivator in the yellow robe, their light greatly diminished.


    "Return!" The cultivator in the yellow robemanded his Spirit Swords to fly back and aimed to sever the Snake Vine Flowers.


    But by that time, Lin Shiming had already taken another swig of Spiritual Wine. A Qi Cultivation at the sixth level, his total amount of spiritual energy and recoverability had grown far beyond what they were before.


    A mountain flew out from Lin Shiming''s sleeve, expanding countless times midair.


    "I am a cultivator of the Huang Family, you dare attack a mere child!" the cultivator in the yellow robe desperately eximed, unable to fathom why Lin Shiming''s spiritual energy felt more abundant than his, nor could he grasp how such a minor Qi Cultivation sixth-level cultivator could possess so many techniques.


    Lin Shiming sneered inwardly, his true fury having been ignited today, and it was clear that the other was an enemy.


    Even if you''re a descendant of a Golden Core cultivator, I cannot spare you!


    The Profound Water Crushing Mountain pressed down like Mount Tai plummeting, bringing with it the might of ten thousand jun.


    For a moment, the air seemed to be squeezed and deformed.


    "Boom!" With a loud noise, the yellow-robed cultivator was directly crushed into pieces, leaving behind only a Storage Bag and a pool of broken flesh.


    After killing the yellow-robed cultivator, Lin Shiming took another swig of Monkey Wine to replenish his Spiritual Power, hooked the Storage Bag, and shot out a fireball to burn the corpse to ashes.


    The three Flying Swords of the yellow-robed cultivator were also collected by Lin Shiming one by one.


    Throughout the battle, Lin Shiming acted with extreme decisiveness and focus, never stopping his attack.


    Although he was interested in the name of the yellow-robed cultivator, what Lin Shiming desired most was victory and survival.


    After all, only by living can one know everything.


    If he had to mention an interest, it was the Spirit Swords that intrigued Lin Shiming even more.


    After a brief clean-up, Lin Shiming quickly returned to Lin Shiqi''s side and anxiouslymunicated with him, looking at thetter''s pale face.


    Lin Shiqi''s thoughts were in disarray, speaking too urgently and without coherence.


    But Lin Shiming still understood, it was indeed the worst-case scenario that the Lin Family had feared.


    The Lin Family''s diversionary spells had been seen through, and the cultivators who went to Shangou Town were captured by the Huang Family''s cultivators.


    Although these early Qi Cultivation cultivators knew nothing of what had happened to the family,


    the Huang Family was still made aware of the Lin Family''s major movements, as all the senior cultivators from various shops and merchant groups were recalled.


    After a private investigationsting more than ten days, the Huang Family finally discovered the location of the Lin Family on the outskirts of the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    And upon seeing so many Spirit Peach Trees, their greed was instantly kindled, and they trapped everyone from the Lin Family inside.


    If not for the Third Elder, who was skilled in formations and had already built a Second Rank Supreme Grade Formation with the power of an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Spirit Vein, the Lin Family wouldn''t have been able to resist even for a moment.


    But even so, the situation was extremely precarious; the Huang Family was different from the Lin Family, with three Foundation Establishment Cultivators and over a dozen Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators. If the Huang Family were to deploy their Foundation Establishment Cultivators, Peach Blossom Valley would surely be littered with corpses.


    "How dare they!" Lin Shiming clenched his fist and then released the Lotus Sword, flying towards Fangmu Mountain.


    Lin Shiming pushed himself to travel desperately, fiercely pouring his spiritual powers into the Spirit Sword.


    The Second Rank Superior Grade Flying Sword was far superior to the previous Green Spirit Sword, so much so that he arrived at Fangmu Mountain before sunset.


    Lin Shiming immediately contacted his father Lin Houyuan, the Great Elder Lin Yuqing, the Second Elder Lin Yuqi, and others via a Sound Transmission Talisman.


    Of course, most importantly, he reached out to the old Patriarch of the Lin Family, his Great Great Uncle Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Shimingnded from Fangmu Mountain and hadn''t yet reached the Council Hall.


    He looked up to see the sky suddenly darken, as if night had fallen.


    But lifting his gaze, that was no nightfall¡ªit was a Spirit Boatrge enough to amodate a hundred people!


    At the very front of the Spirit Boat, a young cultivator stood against the wind, his white hair billowing as if he were a Banished Immortal descended to the mortal realm.


    "It''s the family''s treasured artifact, the Third Rank Spirit Boat!"


    "It''s the old Patriarch!"


    "That''s our ancestral elder!"


    The unusual sight of the Spirit Boat in the sky quickly caught the attention of the Lin Family cultivators below, greatly shaking the Lin Family. The legends were not false.


    The Lin Family''s Foundation Establishment still stood, their tiger''s might still present. Who would dare call the Lin Family a fallen n in the future?


    Who would dare look at them askance?


    Their Lin Family remained that matchless Foundation Establishment n,


    "Shiming, Hou Yuan, Yu Qing, Yu Qi,e up here!" the face of the Lin Family''s elder Patriarch showed a gloomy expression in the sky, his brows deeply furrowed.

 Chapter 24 - 24 Who Dares to Move My Lin Family

    <h4>Chapter 24: Who Dares to Move My Lin Family</h4>


    At the entrance of Peach Blossom Valley, a group of yellow-robed cultivators stood aloft, their Flying Swords relentlessly striking toward a light barrier at the mouth of the valley!


    Every strike would cause the light barrier to tremble violently.


    However, after a bout of shaking, the light barrier would sh with Spirit Patterns and recover as if nothing had happened!


    Over and over again, endless and unceasing!


    "How can this Lin Family''s turtle formation be so troublesome?" The slightly chubby middle-aged man in the lead squinted his eyes, ncing at the barrier ahead with a face full of resentment.


    This leading middle-aged man was known as Huang Lishan, the third in seniority among the Huang Family''s generation with the name "Li," also the current Family Head of the Huang Family. Besides the three Foundation Establishment Supreme Elders of the Huang Family, he held the most power!


    "Third Brother, I''ve suggested before that we should have gotten rid of that old woman early. Now, as expected, she''s be a significant threat. She''s probably be a Second Rank Superior Grade Array Master already!" A dark-faced, burly manined next to him, further darkening Huang Lishan''s already sullen expression.


    Ever since the Huang and Lin Families shed over the Foundation Establishment Pill a hundred years ago, they''ve harbored hatred towards each other. During this time, they naturally targeted each other''s geniuses, among whom Lin Yuqing, Lin Yuqi, and Lin Yushui were the three Foundation Establishment prodigies of the "Yu" generation in the Lin Family.


    Especially Yu Qi and Yu Shui, these two individuals once had the opportunity to cross the Foundation Establishment boundary but resolutely chose to step into the path of pill and formation Dao.


    Such a decision was iprehensible to them at the time!


    They abandoned their martial journey to inherit theughable family legacy.


    This is what they deserved, a fate of destion!


    However, now they see that with just two cultivators at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, about ten in thete stages of Qi Cultivation, and several in the middle stages, the Lin Family was able to fend off their five cultivators at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and over twenty in thete stages from the Huang Family.


    And this was all due to that formation''s might!


    "Third Brother, let''s wait. The Supreme Elder of our family will be here soon. A Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein is a tremendous wealth for our Huang Family. Maybe with this, our Spirit Vein could be elevated to Third Rank Superior Grade!" Another white-bearded old man in a daoist robe spoke up from the side.


    "Hm!" The slightly chubby middle-aged man Huang Lishan nodded, saying nothing more, but the resentment on his face was profound. He was already fantasizing about the scene of breaking through the formation and engaging in wanton ughter.


    ...


    Inside Peach Blossom Valley, aside from a few from the "Shi" generation, nearly all of the Lin Family members were present. Lin Houyuan and Lin Yushui stood at the very front, watching the attackers outside; neither of them spoke.


    It was not until Lin Houwei approached, riding on his sword, that they slightly turned.


    "Seventh Uncle, Third Aunt, the Spirit Pool is almost dry!" Lin Houwei spoke with a look of dejection.


    The Lin Family could staunchly hold the valley pass not just because of the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, but also due to that Spirit Pool, which, powered by the formation, drew in spiritual energy from the Spirit Vein and absorbed the Spirit Water, thus constantly repairing the Spirit Turtle Formation!


    If there was no water from the Spirit Pool, it was only a matter of time before the formation would be broken.


    The worst part was, the three people they had sent to deliver messages had all been pursued by the Huang Family.


    So it was possible that the Huang Family would soon receive reinforcements, while the Lin Family could do nothing but wait for their doom!


    After Lin Houwei finished speaking, a brief silence fell over the scene!


    No one responded, no one moved.


    After a while.


    "Third Aunt, you take Hou Shou, Hou Wei, Shijie, Shimo, and Shiyi and leaveter," Lin Houyuan said, gazing at the Spirit Shield, his thoughts drifting far away.


    He recalled the old family head''s entrustment, his grand aspirations of the past, and then he turned to think of Lin Shiming, only then did the corner of his mouth finally show a trace of a smile.


    "Family Head, do you think I can leave? Leave this to Hou Shou," Lin Yushui said, shaking her head nomittally. The old men from the Huang Family had long set their sights on her.


    Immediately her expression turned cold again, and shemanded sternly:


    "Hou Wei, go convey my orders to Hou Shou, and ensure that Shijie survives!"


    "If Shijie dies, I will never forgive him, even in death!"


    Lin Houwei''s body shivered, feeling the despair of a dead end, yet here it was, this inevitable moment. He wanted to stay.


    But just as Lin Yushui said, if the family had to choose who would survive, Lin Shijie had to be the first.


    At this moment, Lin Houyuan was astonishing to behold, but even more shocking was Lin Yushui.


    Lin Houshou was her own son!


    At this critical moment, she did not send her son to break out alone but instead tasked him to do his utmost to protect Lin Shiming''s escape.


    Lin Houwei stifled all sorrow and once again firmly set out, flying toward the Spirit Pool.


    Indeed, even if he decided to stay in the end, he still needed to inform Hou Shou.


    Because Lin Shijie was the hope of the Lin Family.


    A family''s terrory not in the family itself, but in its ability to pass down its legacy continuously.


    As long as it didn''t perish, there would always be hope!


    "Boom!" A loud explosion suddenly resounded, shaking the earth and the mountains, its might extremely vast.


    The spiritual energy of the entire Spirit Vein was drained by arge fraction in an instant, among them, Lin Yushui, who controlled the formation, spat out arge mouthful of blood.


    "That is..." Lin Houyuan''s heart surged as he raised his head to look into the distance.


    He saw a man dressed in a yellow robe and headdress, standing in the air, a sword strike that made the world pale inparison.


    "A Foundation Establishment expert!" Lin Yushui also turned ashen, feeling extremely powerless in an instant.


    In the face of formidable cultivation levels, all cunning schemes, all formations, at this moment, seemed so pale.


    "Notify everyone, once the great formation opens, everyone flees on their own!" Lin Houyuan directly changed the decision, this moment didn''t concern who would cover the rear or who would escape.


    Every survivor counts.


    "Boom"


    Another loud explosion!


    Lin Yushui and several other Qi Cultivationte-stage formation controllers all vomitedrge mouthfuls of blood.


    Meanwhile, the Profound Tortoise-shaped Spirit Shield in the sky shattered in an instant.


    An invisible storm swept through, with countless peach trees breaking and being destroyed.


    "Run!" Lin Houyuan shouted!


    "Run? Where can you run?" The man in the yellow robe took a step and advanced a hundred meters.


    Directly arriving in front of Lin Houyuan.


    "Family Head!"


    Just as the people of the Lin Family were about to flee, they witnessed this scene.


    At the same time, the Huang Family members also rushed over, encircling the Lin Familypletely, and even among the crowd, some swiftly set up formation gs.


    To rece the former formation base!


    They intended to use the formation to trap the Lin Family.


    They wanted total annihtion!


    "Good timing!" Lin Houyuan lifted his head, facing the Foundation Establishment Stage sword without much fear.


    What of Foundation Establishment? What if he killed him!


    If he couldn''tprehend the strength of that realm in a few years, he would touch upon that realm just before dying.


    We cultivators, why fear death!


    Lin Houyuan drew his sword, and mes burst forth instantly.


    Unlike Lin Shijie''s raw and loose style, Lin Houyuan performed the Fire-returning Fire Sword technique to the utmost limit.


    With a thirty-foot-long me emerging from his sword, it transformed into an evenrger ming greatsword, directly confronting the Foundation Establishment level!


    "An ant trying to shake a tree, how ludicrous!" The Foundation Establishment Stage cultivator in the yellow robe pressed down with his hand, and a Third Rank treasure sword descended from the sky as if it were a divine judgment.


    Boom!


    The mes parted, the Fire-returning Fire Sword was flung away, the spiritual energy drastically reduced, and that Third Rank treasure sword aimed to y Lin Houyuan.


    "Who dares to touch my Lin Family?" A domineering voice came from the sky.


    A Qinglian Magic Sword shot down from the heavens, sending the Foundation Establishment cultivator in the yellow robe''s Flying Sword spinning away!


    "It''s the Supreme Elder!"


    Upon the arrival of the flying boat, everyone from the Lin Family was overjoyed.


    Their belief had returned!

 Chapter 25: Chapter 25 Gaps in Foundation Establishment

    At the entrance of Peach Blossom Valley, a hundred-meter Spirit Boat slowly descended.


    The Great Elder, Second Elder, and others quickly disembarked from the Spirit Boat, receiving the rest of the Lin Family members aboard.


    The Huang Family members intended to stop them, but seeing the young man in green robes and white hair floating in the air, they couldn''t help but pause.


    Lin Xianzhi!


    Of course, he had another title.


    The Qinglian Sword Cultivator.


    A Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator who had mastered the Sword Intent of water.


    "Impossible! You clearly..." The leading yellow-robed Foundation Establishment cultivator was also utterly shocked, staring at Lin Xianzhi, shaking his head frantically.


    "You clearly should have died from the poison, right?" Lin Xianzhi replied calmly.


    Thirty years of agony and healing had long calmed his heart, smooth as a mirror.


    Of course, except for his family.


    After Lin Shiming and the others brought back the Second Rank Supreme Grade medicinal Monkey Wine, one could say his Dao heart had also revived, even more vigorous than before!


    Broken and then re-established, the Green Lotus suddenly sprouted.


    At this moment, he was the Lin Family''s sword!


    "Take my sword, Huang Kaiyu, and let''s see if the Huang Family, which has grown much bolder these past thirty years, has made any progress in strength!" Lin Xianzhi was the first to raise his hand, and the Qinglian Sword immediately let out a loud sword cry.


    Green brilliance surged, and a green lotus emerged and bloomed atop the sword.


    Then it transformed into countless waves of lotus Sword Qi.


    A Sword Cultivator, Sword Qi begets naturally, that is Sword Intent.


    "Progress? Then watch carefully!" The yellow-robed cultivator''s face flushed red, absolutely furious.


    It had been thirty years, they were from the same era, entered Foundation Establishment together, and yet he was still speaking to him in the tone of an elder!


    What gave him the right to lecture him?


    "Thirty years, your body is already rotten!" In front of Huang Kaiyu, the earthy yellow sword also shone brightly, turning into a giant heavy sword under the influence of the Foundation Establishment cultivator''s True Yuan.


    Its edge gleamed, and Sword Qi howled!


    Go!


    With a light shout, Huang Kaiyuunched a sword strike!


    That wasn''t all, he took out a talisman¡ª a Defense Talisman with twisting, barely visible Spirit Patterns of the Third Rank.


    "Xiaogeng Sword Talisman!"


    After releasing the Sword Talisman, that still wasn''t all; relying on the Huang Family''s wealth and power, Huang Kaiyu took out a spear as well, also a Third Rank Magic Artifact!


    Three techniques, any one of which was not inferior to the peak methods of the Early Stage Foundation Establishment.


    Huang Kaiyu had long noticed that the fluctuations of Lin Xianzhi''s Spiritual Power were not at their peak, merely reaching the Foundation Establishment Early Stage, so he was especially confident.


    And in the eyes of the others, especially the Lin Family members, they couldn''t help but curse out loud.


    In his mouth, Huang Kaiyu spoke with mighty rhetoric, yet his hands seemed eager to unleash all the Magic Artifacts and treasures he had at Lin Xianzhi.


    The Spirit Sword arrived in an instant!


    Boom!


    A loud noise erupted, and countless Sword Qi scattered.


    The Qinglian Sword cried out, and the Green Lotus burst out once again.


    The Sword of Water flowed like the tides of the great ocean, advancing in waves.


    One sword after another, the earthy yellow giant sword was quickly sent flying away, followed by the Xiaogeng Sword Talisman, and the Third Rank spear!


    All were cleaved by a single sh, then headed straight for Huang Kaiyu, startling him out of his wits.


    He pped out three or four Defense Talismans from within his body, as numerous light shields protected him tightly.


    Sweat dripping from his forehead, he stared at Lin Xianzhi as if looking at a monster.


    "How can you be so strong!"


    "It''s not about being strong, it''s about there being differences even within Foundation Establishment!" Lin Xianzhi said indifferently, then with a flick of his hand, the Qinglian Sword flew back.


    He pointed his finger into the air, issuing another sword strike.


    This sword, the green light was even more pervasive, as if it was bing more enthusiastic.


    As enthusiasm took over, Lin Xianzhi disdainfully took out a wine jug and swallowed a mouthful of Spiritual Wine.


    The Sword Qi once again rose by a third out of thin air.


    A sword was unleashed, and the heavens and earth lost their color, all became Green Lotus, all became Sword Qi!


    Huang Kaili felt his heart was about to leap out of his chest.


    This damn Sword Cultivator, why is he even more terrifying than thirty years ago!


    "Lin Xianzhi, thought you were dead. Coming out of seclusion and not visiting an old friend?" Another loud voice came, as a middle-aged man in a yellow robe and golden crown flew out.


    A golden iron hoop smashed fiercely onto the Qinglian Sword, and after a violent metallic roar, the hoop bounced back, while the Qinglian Sword flew back to Lin Xianzhi.


    "You Huang Family people, really all have the same dog-like appearance!" Lin Xianzhi, despite his usually good temper, couldn''t help but curse out loud.


    His arrival was naturally unknown to the Huang Family.


    And the fact that the Huang Family ughtered the people of their Lin Family, seized the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, and even deployed two Foundation Establishment Cultivators was true.


    This person before him was even Huang Kaiyu, a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator!


    It showed just how ruthless the Huang Family was and that they had the real intent to kill.


    "You''re still the same old you. We are both Foundation Establishment families, why engage in such fighting and killing. For us Immortal Cultivators, Foundation Establishment is but a mere two hundred and fifty years!" Huang Kaiyu faced Lin Xianzhi''s mockery without anger, of course, he couldn''t afford to be angry.


    Since they couldn''t kill the witness before being discovered, it meant their operation had already failed.


    "Do you have the strength to persuade me?" However, only to hear Lin Xianzhi shake his head again and take another sip of Spiritual Wine.


    His cheeks flushed, he once more pointed high with his index finger.


    "You should know, even within the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, there are disparities!"


    The extreme coldness of the words made several people''s faces change instantly.


    What followed was the Qinglian Sword growing to the size of seven or eight meters, with green Sword Intent transforming into infinite Sword Qi.


    Furthermore, ayer of Sword Qi as an edge was passed over the Qinglian Sword!


    Boom!


    The Qinglian Sword shed down, with a heaven-reaching sword radiance following.


    In an instant, it turned into a stream of sword light and fiercely stabbed at Huang Kaiyu.


    "How can it be so strong!" Huang Kaiyu muttered, hisplexion extremely unsightly.


    How could he feel that Lin Xianzhi, every sword was stronger than thest!


    No way to catch!


    Absolutely no way to catch!


    "Attack together, Kaili!" Huang Kaiyu bellowed, then flipped his hands over, taking out a third-rank intermediate grade Magic Artifact, a spirit ring, and also pulled out a third-rank superior grade iron tower Magic Artifact.


    Together with Huang Kaili''s sword spear!


    shing up in unison, the Spirit Light was brilliant and dazzling; this multiyer attack represented the pinnacle of fighting force in each realm of Foundation Establishment.


    Yet even so, under the stirring of the sword light, it was still the two people of the Huang Family who copsed. As each spat out a mouthful of blood,


    Their faces turned from leisurelyposure to the unsightliness of a liver-like hue.


    "We''re willing to parley and apologize!" Seeing Lin Xianzhi''s finger wave once more, with the Qinglian Sword poised to strike again, Huang Kaiyu quickly spoke.


    This opening also represented the Huang Family''s admission of defeat!


    "Parley? No problem, wait till I''ve also cut you for a day and a night, then we''ll talk!" Lin Xianzhi spoke indifferently, then once more pointed into the void with his finger.


    Another sword, another Green Lotus.


    This time, Huang Kaili and Huang Kaiyu hadpletely exhausted all their means, with an unknown number of Defense Talismans released.


    Yet they were still sent flying with one sh!


    Leaving behind two embarrassing figures spewing blood.


    The scene was as silent as death; the Huang Family couldn''t believe their two Foundation Establishment Elders were taken down with a single blow!


    And the Lin Family couldn''t believe their old n''s leader was so ferocious!


    They couldn''t even imagine the n leader''s supremely tyrannical words were spoken for revenge on their behalf!


    Thinking of this, the gloom from being suppressed within the formation and attacked for an entire day and night was swept away.


    "We''ll parley, we are willing to give up three shops in Qingyun Market and alsopensate with twenty Second Rank Spirit Trees!"


    After Huang Kaiyu said this, Huang Kaili suddenly red at him fiercely.


    Not understanding, as any single shop in Qingyun Market could bring in thousands per year, it was a major market guarded by Purple Mansion cultivators from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Let alone three shops.


    "Ten shops and a hundred Spirit Trees!" Lin Xianzhi spoke.

 Chapter 26: Chapter 26 Qingxuan Spirit Contract

    ```


    "Impossible, our Huang Family also has cultivators in thete Foundation Establishment stage!" The Huang Family members all had ashen faces, especially Huang Kaili.


    Ten shops ¨C that was virtually all of their family''s business.


    This would mean a contraction of the Huang Family''s business empire, which would hinder their ability to support three Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    It could even affect the prospects of the younger cultivators.


    "Impossible? Then all of you stay here! I''ll retrieve them myself," Lin Xianzhi said indifferently.


    He still looked asposed and detached as ever, always giving off the false impression that he did not care in the least.


    However, the cold sword qi in his eyes and the Qinglian Sword hanging high on his back made the Huang Family members'' faces stiffen.


    In a moment, they found themselves unable to agree or disagree.


    "Don''t be afraid. Even if I were to sh for a day and a night without killing anyone, I would still let you leave!" Lin Xianzhi spoke again.


    Then, with another point of his finger, the Qinglian Sword immediately burst with light,yers of Green Lotuses surged, and sword qi swept across.


    "We agree!" Huang Kaiyu gritted his teeth, his agreement steeped in extreme humiliation.


    They could no longer withstand that one sword strike, let alone for a day and a night.


    The terror of a sword cultivator was beyond their imagination. Indeed, Huang Kaiyu felt that Lin Xianzhi had progressed further on the path of sword cultivation, possibly having reached the first realm of Sword Intent, Sword Light Transformation.


    Even faced with such humiliation, he had no choice but to agree.


    Otherwise, the thirty-plus members of the Huang Family feared they would all meet their end here.


    The reason Lin Xianzhi was framed by the Purple Mansion Family behind them was precisely because this man was a lunatic wearing a human face.


    He really could do it!


    "The deeds of the shops and one hundred Second Rank Spirit Trees willplete the transfer in a month," Huang Kaiyu said detedly, while the Huang Family members behind him at that moment shot cold res, but upon being red at by the Lin Family, they lowered their heads.


    "Sign this!" Lin Xianzhi took out a sheepskin scroll from his storage bag and tossed it over.


    "Qingxuan Spirit Contract!" Seeing the scroll, the Huang Family members'' expressions turned uglier, and for a moment, their hands froze while receiving the scroll.


    This Qingxuan Spirit Contract was issued by one of the Zhao Kingdom''s three great sects, the Qingxuan Sect. To see the scroll was as good as seeing the Qingxuan Sect itself.


    Once the contract is signed, no one would dare to break it.


    Unless one could contend with a Golden Core True Person.


    "What''s wrong, want to taste the sword?" Lin Xianzhi gestured with the Qinglian Sword and spoke again.


    Upon seeing the Qinglian Sword, Huang Kaiyu involuntarily ducked, signing the Qingxuan Spirit Contract with great humiliation.


    Once signed, the members of the Huang Family had no choice but to leave in disgrace, each resembling a deted cucumber.


    If they were full of bluster when they arrived, they were now inplete disarray.


    "The Family Head is mighty!"


    "Seventh Uncle is mighty!"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle is mighty!"


    "Seventh Ancestor-Uncle is mighty!"


    As soon as the Huang Family left, the Lin Family members immediately erupted in enthusiastic cheers, especially those who stayed in Peach Blossom Valley.


    Having survived a cmity, even those who normally remained calm couldn''t help but cheer for their old Family Head.


    Only Lin Shiming was puzzled.


    The old Family Head was being muddle-headed; these people should have all been killed.


    Even just now, he had already thrown down three seeds of the highly poisonous Snake Vine Flower.


    But what no one noticed was that Lin Shiming was also continuously drinking Spiritual Wine.


    The moment Lin Xianzhi killed a Foundation Establishment cultivator, he too would act, controlling at least three cultivators at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    With the remaining four Ninth-Level Elder Qi Cultivators and the Lin Family''s momentum soaring, it was uncertain if any of the Huang Family members could leave alive.


    Secrets could only be kept by the dead.


    Even if the secret got out after killing so many, it wouldn''t be a loss!


    ```


    As long as one of the two Foundation Establishment stages remained, the Lin Family would reap enormous benefits.


    As for the ten shops and one hundred Spirit Trees, even if there were more resources, it would be feeding a tiger to one''s own detriment.


    Lin Shiming could not understand, so much so that during the previous cheers, he remained silent.


    After Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, he did not utter another word and strode into Peach Blossom Valley, leaving the rest of the people behind.


    "Father, are you all right? I received a message from Third Sister and immediately returned to Fangmu Mountain to pass on the news," Lin Shiming went up to greet Lin Houyuan.


    On the Spirit Boat, he had seen his father being attacked by a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and at that moment, he had indeed broken out into a cold sweat.


    The gap between Foundation Establishment and Qi Cultivation was definitely more than just the difference between liquid True Yuan and gaseous Spiritual Energy!


    What''s more, Lin Houyuan did not have any Inner Armor; his Second Rank Superior Grade Inner Armor was on Lin Shiming.


    "No harm done, I even got to experience Foundation Establishment in advance, which was a great gain!" said Lin Houyuan nonchntly. Then, as the Family Head, he began to direct the people once more.


    At this moment, he did not dare to hesitate any further, ordering all the Spirit nt Masters of the family to mobilize and begin transnting all the Spirit nts.


    Even if the Spirit Peaches were not yet ripe and it would affect the yield, he could not care less at this moment.


    Better to have less trouble than more; when it was time to make choices, one had to decide.


    That night, all members of the Lin Family were busy, and Lin Shiming was no exception.


    Although he was not a Second Rank Spirit nt Master, with his experience learning about Spirit nts, he was assisting on the side.


    With the help of system prompts, he even had some unique insights on certain special techniques for transnting Spirit nts, which yielded some gains for the other Spirit nt Masters of the family.


    Of course, it was Lin Shiming who gained the most.


    Transnting the Spirit nts took a full two days, a total of one Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Peach Tree and forty-eight Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Peach Trees.


    All of the Lin Family''s Jade Boxes were used up, but not a single person showed any sign of distress, as one well-cared-for Spirit Peach Tree could be worth thousands of Spirit Jades.


    Lin Houshou smiled as he counted these Jade Boxes; after all, these Spirit Peaches would go into the Treasure Pavilion.


    "Shiming, Seventh Great-Uncle is looking for you!" From afar, the Second Elder''s voice full of admiration reached him first, followed by the Elder appearing on a Sword Light Transformation before Lin Shiming.


    "Okay! Thank you again, Second Grandpa!" Lin Shiming bowed respectfully.


    "You, my boy, truly have both talent and luck. Seventh Great-Uncle has sought you out twice already," said Second Elder Lin Yuqi with augh.


    "Second Grandpa, you tter me again; I am aware of my own limits," replied Lin Shiming humbly.


    After bidding farewell to Lin Yuqi, Lin Shiming mounted his Sword Light Transformation and flew toward the cave dwelling above the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein.


    Arriving in front of the cave, Lin Shiming jumped down from the Spirit Sword and respectfully called out to the cave dwelling.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle."


    "Come in," Lin Xianzhi''s calm voice came from inside, and Lin Shiming rose and flew in on his Sword Light Transformation.


    Next to the familiar Spirit Pool, Lin Shiming found Lin Xianzhi.


    Thetter was once again sitting in meditation on a lotus leaf in the Spirit Pool.


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming approach, Lin Xianzhi stood up.


    "You have questions?" Lin Xianzhi asked.


    "To answer Seventh Great-Uncle, indeed, I do not understand!"


    "The Huang Family clearly had ulterior motives that day; how could they be let off lightly!" Lin Shiming expressed his confusion and released the dissatisfaction he held inside.


    "That matter!" Lin Xianzhi chuckled, then took out a Jade Bottle.


    "Actually, I did have that thought at the time!"


    Lin Shiming was familiar with this Jade Bottle, it was the one he used to store the Second Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine.


    When the Jade Bottle reached Lin Shiming''s hands, he saw that it waspletely empty, and at that moment, Lin Shiming finally understood.


    His respect for this Seventh Great-Uncle rose once again in his heart.


    At that time, Lin Xianzhi had not recovered to his peak; he had relied on Monkey Wine, just as Lin Shiming had used Monkey Wine to stimte the Snake Vine Flower.


    That first time, when Huang Kaiyu begged for mercy, Lin Shizhi did take action, but he was blocked by two Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Huang Family who defended with their lives.


    And to perform another sword technique, he no longer had Spiritual Energy; Seventh Great-Uncle had not recovered to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage.

 Chapter 27: Chapter 27: Transplanting a Spirit Vein

    After grasping the key points, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but marvel at the wisdom and courage of the old n leader.


    Back then, he even dared to expand from three shops straight to ten.


    And he actually bluffed them sessfully.


    Of course, had he honestly just asked for three shops, the cunning fellows in the Huang Family might not have believed it at all.


    Lin Shiming also thought about Huang Kaili''s words, iming that the old n leader had been declining over the past thirty years, which was probably just a bluff.


    For the upper echelons of the Lin Family, they naturally knew that from the time Lin Xianzhi got his hands on Monkey Wine to now, it had only been a little over half a month.


    But the Huang Family was unaware of this.


    Dealing with these old foxes, one really had to be careful in every respect.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but reflect on this in his heart.


    "You have the Snake Vine Flower seeds with you, right? Can you activate them?" Lin Xianzhi spoke again, clearly the others in the Lin Family didn''t know the origin of the Snake Vine Flowers, but the old n leader did.


    "Yes! Since Shiming has practiced the Wood Vine Technique and cultivated the Qing Mu Art, seeing that these seeds resembled Wood Vine seeds, he decided to give them a try. Unexpectedly, they proved to be so powerful." Lin Shiming nodded and replied, not daring to conceal anything from the old n leader.


    What he didn''t understand was, knowing this, why the old n leader didn''t pass on the information.


    These seeds were equivalent to Supreme Grade magic artifacts.


    He didn''t believe that others in the family, knowing the powerful effect of the Snake Vine Flowers, would not cultivate the Qing Mu Art.


    One must know that if an Elder at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level had the assistance of ten Snake Vine Flowers, he could easily take on three of his peers without issue.


    "Is that so?" Lin Xianzhi was evidently somewhat excited, then he had Lin Shiming demonstrate it.


    After feeling thepleted infusion of Spiritual Energy from Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi spoke again:


    "In that case, prepare for a few days. In a few days time, apany me to visit Qingxuan Sect and meet my master, Zi Xuan Hermit!" After saying this, Lin Xianzhi didn''t give Lin Shiming the opportunity to think it over, simply waving his hand to send him down to prepare.


    Touching his nose, Lin Shiming felt somewhat puzzled.


    But he naturally wouldn''t dare to refuse or criticize an order from the Lin Family''s old n leader.


    He went down to prepare earnestly.


    At the clearing in Peach Blossom Valley, there were already more than twenty small wooden houses. After Lin Shiming requested one for cultivation, he moved in.


    The wooden house was quite simple. For a cultivator, furniture wasn''t really necessary.


    A stone bed and a stone table were enough as long as one could cultivate in peace.


    Cultivators are most adverse to impatience; often those who can endure hardship can achieve great sess.


    As for food, from the Qi Cultivation Stage, cultivators begin fasting, consuming Fasting Pills and cultivating their Qi.


    Once in the wooden house, Lin Shiming finally had the time to take out a finely crafted Storage Bag and start inspecting it.


    This Storage Bag belonged to ate-stage cultivator from the Huang Family. As for his name, Lin Shiming did not know, nor did he need to.


    He was but ate-stage Qi Cultivating n descendant.


    Since the Foundation Establishment Cultivators of the Huang Family had fled in embarrassment, he wasn''t afraid; at most, he''d just be cautious when going out.


    Three Spirit Swords were taken out by Lin Shiming. The Superior Grade Spirit Sword was alright, but the two Intermediate Grade ones had lost a lot of Spiritual Energy, and probably needed an Artifact Refining Master to reforge and restore their Spirit Patterns.


    Even so, these Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Swords could still fetch a few dozen Spirit Stones each. Of course, reforging would definitely increase their value. There was no need to mention a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Sword; it could easily go for seven or eight hundred Spirit Stones.


    Apart from the three Spirit Swords, the Storage Bag of the yellow-robed cultivator also contained more than three hundred Spirit Stones and a dozen or so Spirit Talismans. However, they were only Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Talismans, and thus not particrly valuable to Lin Shiming.


    Such an arrogantte-stage cultivator, yet he had only so much wealth with him.


    Lin Shiming shook his head and disdainfully belittled the man in his heart.


    He then stored all the Spiritual Objects back into the Storage Bag, categorizing everything ordingly.


    Lin Shiming also felt movement from the Spirit Beast Bag, clearly, the two big masters were hungry again.


    Releasing the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey from the Spirit Beast Bag, both beasts gazed at Lin Shiming with anticipation.


    After spending dozens of days together, the two beasts had be much more familiar with each other and no longer shed as before.


    On the contrary, they had cultivated a tacit understanding, one on the left, one on the right.


    With a squeak and a roar, they demanded Spirit Water, Spiritual Wine, and Spirit Food from Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming, following the usual practice, gave each beast a pat on the head.


    The two beasts deftly dodged, then opened their eyes wide.


    "Squeak!"


    "Roar!"


    In a fashion that suggested no treats, no pats, Lin Shiming found this very amusing.


    After feeding the Spirit Beasts, Lin Shiming began his daily cultivation. As a Third Spirit Root cultivator, persistent cultivation was his greatest enlightenment.


    Water droplets umted over time; only with daily practice could one hope to shatter the mirror one day.


    A dayter, the Lin Family finally finished collecting all the resources in Peach Blossom Valley, excavating arge amount of soil used for cultivating spirit peaches.


    This would enhance the survival rate of the transnted trees and ensure the peaches had enough nutrients to mature.


    The members of the Lin Family gathered in front of the cave entrance, where Lin Xianzhi, with white hair and a green robe, rose into the air, holding an unidentifiable Spirit te in his hand.


    He was preparing to transnt a Spirit Vein!


    Lin Xianzhi, being a Foundation Establishment stage cultivator with a lifespan of two hundred fifty years, naturally had a secondary profession¡ªa Third Rank Spirit-Seeking Master.


    Lin Houyong observed very closely. As an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Spirit-Seeking Master, watching a Third Rank Spirit-Seeking Master transnt a Second Rank, Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein with a Spirit Pool was an incredible opportunity.


    As Lin Xianzhi''s hands performed increasinglyplex Spirit Arts, the Spiritual Energy in the Spirit te, rich to the extreme, seemed to awaken.


    It manifested into streams of Dragon-Shaped Spiritual Energy.


    In the void, Lin Shiming even thought he heard the sound of dragon''s chants.


    "Collect!" Lin Xianzhi uttered lightly as he cast the final Spirit Art, and instantly the Dragon-Shaped Spiritual Energy rushed towards the cave.


    In a blink, the nearby Spiritual Energy began to climb steadily.


    And then, at some point, the Spiritual Energy started to slowly fade away.


    Immediately after, Lin Shiming and the others saw the Dragon-Shaped Spiritual Energy ferociously emerge from the ground, holding a dazzling ball of light filled with Spiritual Energy, and above the ball,


    Dragon-Shaped Spiritual Energy swirled as well, with a miniature Spirit Pool contained beneath it.


    In the end, it all entered the Spirit te in Lin Xianzhi''s hand.


    Lin Xianzhi skillfully manipted the gestures and secured the Spirit te, exhaling a breath of stale air.


    At this point, the Spirit Vein had been sessfully extracted into the Spirit-Seeking te.


    They just needed to return to Fangmu Mountain and insert it into Fangmu Mountain''s Spirit Vein, apply the Secret Technique, and they could enhance the Spirit Vein of Fangmu Mountain.


    As the Spirit Vein withdrew, Lin Shiming could distinctly feel the surrounding Spiritual Energy weakening continuously.


    Looking around, the entire Peach Blossom Valley had beenpletely transformed, riddled with pits and hollows. A few ordinary peach trees that survived the upheaval now appeared withered and yellow, some even identally damaged.


    The beautiful scenery from half a month ago was no longer the same.


    Lin Shiming felt a tinge of regret in his heart.


    But he firmly believed that in the future, on Fangmu Mountain, the peach blossoms would bloom even more brilliantly and beautifully!


    Next year''s spring breeze would turn Fangmu Mountain pink as well, with bees buzzing and butterflies fluttering!


    The journey back to Fangmu Mountain from Peach Blossom Valley was on the family''s Third Rank Spirit Boat. Within five or six hours, they had reached Fangmu Mountain.


    On Fangmu Mountain, the Lin Family inserted the transnted Spirit Vein into the Third-Rank Spirit Vein, and it was visible to the naked eye that the entire Fangmu Mountain''s Spiritual Energy rose significantly.


    However, there was still a considerable gap from bing a Superior Grade Third-Rank Spirit Vein.


    This left many Elders in the family feeling the achievement was slightlycking.


    Two dayster, Lin Shiming finally received a message from Lin Xianzhi.


    He was to set off for Qingxuan Mountain immediately to pay respects to Lin Xianzhi''s master, Zi Xuan Hermit.

 Chapter 28: Chapter 28: Trial of the Ascending Immortal Ladder

    Qingxuan Mountain is located in Qingzhou, deviating from the Qingyun Mountain ranges and situated within Zhao Kingdom.


    It towers into the clouds, its peak beyond the sight of the naked eye, and is also thergest mountain in Qingzhou.


    At the foot of Qingxuan Mountain, vegetation is lush and the forest dense, while the summit is perpetually covered with ice and snow, cold as the depths of winter. Just Qingxuan Mountain alone lets one experience all four seasons.


    Lin Shiming followed behind Lin Xianzhi, looking at the giant peak in front of him, feeling an instant of reverence, as if looking upon a divine mountain.


    Whereas he felt like a mere grain of sand in the ocean, an ephemeral mayfly in the grand scheme of things.


    "At the foot of Qingxuan Sect, there is the Ascending Immortal Ladder with 108 steps. Only by climbing it can you reach the location of the Sect!" Lin Xianzhi spoke while walking ahead.


    As he spoke, he took the lead and walked forward, only to see adder reaching to the heavensid out in front of both of them.


    On thedder, there were many cultivators slowly making their way up, walking up the mountain just like mortals, which Lin Shiming found quite novel.


    "This Ascending Immortal Ladder is one of the foundations of the Qingxuan Sect. All Foundation Establishment and Qi Cultivators must not fly up but are required to climb step by step. The profundity of the steps, you will understand as soon as you try!" Lin Xianzhi exined by his side, then waved his hand, indicating for Lin Shiming to go up and try.


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate, nodding his head before moving forward.


    However, as soon as he stepped on the first stair, he felt a sudden increase in gravity, causing his Spiritual Power to falter and then begin to dissipate.


    "What is this!" Lin Shiming eximed in shock, quickly stepping back.


    Gravity was a minor concern, but if the well-cultivated Spiritual Energy dissipated, that would mean several years of cultivation wasted.


    Yet, what was miraculous was that as soon as Lin Shiming stepped back, the Spiritual Energy was restored, and the previous sensation of gravity and pressure vanished without a trace. If it weren''t for the fact that his Spiritual Power seemed to have condensed slightly, he would definitely have thought it was all an illusion.


    "Does thisdder have the effect of condensing cultivation techniques?" Lin Shiming said, somewhat surprised.


    "Indeed, the Ascending Immortal Ladder does have the effect of condensing cultivation techniques, but non-disciples of our Sect have only one chance to experience it. The second time they climb thedder, they will only feel the pressure of gravity without any advancement in their techniques.


    This is also a reward the Qingxuan Sect, a Golden Core Sect, provides to all the families and Loose Cultivators whoe to pay their respects!" Lin Xianzhi introduced at the side, clearly havinge here countless times before.


    Having heard this, Lin Shiming also understood the rationale behind it¡ªit was a carrot and a stick to make one more fearful and respectful of the Sect.


    "Continue to climb, and you can use the Qing Mu Art to perform the Minor Cirction cultivation, controlling your Spiritual Energy to prevent it from dissipating too quickly. I will protect you while you do so!" Lin Xianzhi suggested once more.


    Lin Shiming was not shy; he took a deep breath and stepped onto the Ascending Immortal Ladder once again, this time prepared and no longer panicking.


    With a focused mind and calm breath, the Qing Mu Art began to circte within his body. The running of the Minor Cirction was not as smooth as usual.


    After all, the vast gravity was a significant resistance to him, and it was only after trying for ten breaths that Lin Shiming managed toplete the smooth cirction of the Minor Cirction.


    Spiritual Energy was dissipating on one side and reconvening on the other.


    Lin Shiming continued to ascend thedder.


    A stairway that could usually be climbed in a few minutes, at this moment took Lin Shiming an entire hour just to climb seventy-two steps.


    By that time, his face was covered in sweat.


    Beyond that, most of his Spiritual Energy had dissipated, with more incessantly continuing to fade.


    And when Lin Shiming reached the hundred and tenth step, he felt his entire body weaken, his Spiritual Energy dissipating to an extreme point, with only the Spiritual Energy from the initial operation of the Qing Mu Art''s Minor Cirction remaining.


    With the final step taken, all his Spiritual Energy was restored, and the gravity was released.


    I only felt as if my whole body were as light as a soaring swan, with my spiritual energy condensed as solid as iron.


    Lin Shiming was also astonished to discover that the amount of spiritual energy within his body had increased a bit; just this minor step in cultivation was equivalent to half a month of arduous practice.


    In an instant, the vastness of the Qingxuan Sect expanded a few more degrees in Lin Shiming''s heart.


    The Golden Core Sect truly was incredible, capable of turning decay into a miracle.


    Aside from his admiration, Lin Shiming also turned back to look at the other cultivators, among whom were some family elders leading their young descendants up the mountain to practice, deepening his feelings once more.


    This visit to the Qingxuan Sect alone, with just this gain, had already left him extremely satisfied.


    Indeed, a single elder in the family is equivalent to a treasured resource; how could amon loose cultivator encounter such an opportunity.


    "Not bad, in just two hours, you''ve ascended the Ascending Immortal Ladder. Your level of spiritual energy condensation and perseverance are no less than that of an exceptionally good Sect disciple!" Lin Xianzhi was clearly extremely satisfied, unable to resist praising him by his side.


    "Uncle, you tter me too much; just a single stretch of stairs has left me utterly disheveled. Truly, the word ''good'' doesn''t apply to me!" Lin Shiming replied with a wry smile. After ascending thedder, Lin Shiming had actuallye to understand his own shorings: his physique was weak and his spiritual power was not condensed enough.


    Considering that the Qing Mu Art is known for its condensation of spiritual energy, this was indeed uneptable.


    "Young man, there''s no need to be overly modest. Three years ago, Yu Qing brought Shijie here and it was much the same!" Lin Xianzhi''s following words made Lin Shiming quite stunned¡ªit turned out his elder brother had also been here, and what was most surprising was that his speed was even slower than his, a Third Spirit Root.


    In a sh, an image of his big brother huffing and puffing as he climbed thedder appeared in Lin Shiming''s mind.


    "Let''s go, we''re now headed to the Sect''s outer reception area to meet with your master!"


    After walking another hundred metres or so along the stone-paved pathway, they finally reached the reception area of the Qingxuan Sect.


    The Qingxuan Sect''s reception area was a great hall, from the signboard at the entrance to the thresholds of the pavilions, all imposing and grand, with dragon carvings and ornate decorations, extremely sumptuous.


    Several disciples wearing Qingxuan Sect''s Taoist robes were receiving various loose cultivators and families one after another.


    Most loose cultivators were looking to pass the Qingxuan Sect''s tests to see if they could instantly rise to be Sect disciples, whereas the family scions werergely like the Lin Family at this moment, with considerable connections inside the Sect.


    After Lin Xianzhi and the others announced their arrival, a Sect disciple threw out a Transmission Talisman tomunicate and make arrangements.


    Soon, a dedicated cultivator came to lead Lin Shiming and the others towards the inner gates of the mountain.


    Their destination was a cluster of purple pavilions; the Zi Xuan Hermit''s abode was located there.


    Upon reaching the entrance, there was a simrly young disciple in a Taoist robe who appeared to have been waiting for some time.


    "Junior brother, the master is inside!"


    "Thank you very much, senior brother!" Lin Xianzhi bowed his hands in thanks, then took out a small jug of second-rank superior grade Spiritual Wine from his Storage Bag and handed it to thetter.


    "Junior brother, what is this?"


    "Senior brother has shown considerable attention to junior brother in the past, and as I haven''t paid my respects for thirty years, I specially brought a small jug of wine as an apologetic gift. I hope senior brother won''t find itcking." The other party finally epted it, his nose twitching uncontrobly, his smile growing even wider on his face.


    Lin Xianzhi then continued to lead Lin Shiming into the hall.


    Upon entering, Lin Shiming quickly saw an old man in a purple robe, with an air of grace and white hair flowing like silver.


    "Disciple with his offspring pays respects to master!" Lin Xianzhi gave a formal bow, and Lin Shiming also immediately said:


    "Shiming pays respects to Zi Xuan Hermit!"

 Chapter 29: Chapter 29: Becoming a Disciple of Zi Xuan

    "Thirty years, and you finally deign to visit your master?" the Zi Xuan Hermit sat on the red nanmu Taishi chair, one hand supporting his sleeve, the other steeping a pot of Spiritual Tea.


    He shook it, sealed it.


    From beginning to end, he didn''t nce at Lin Xianzhi even once.


    "Please punish me, Master. Xianzhi is merely a nominal disciple, yet I''ve troubled my master with concerns," Lin Xianzhi kowtowed again, bowing down, with Lin Shiming following suit beside him.


    The old Zi Xuan remained indifferent, picking up the tea cup, sniffing its fragrance, and then taking a delicate sip.


    After a long while, he sighed.


    "You know, I can settle that matter for you!"


    The words spoken so lightly, yet no one doubted the power behind them.


    "Xianzhi is but a mere nominal disciple. How could I dare to have Master break Sect rules on my behalf?"


    The old Zi Xuan took another sip of tea, his deep eyes briefly meeting Lin Xianzhi''s gaze, then continued to contemte the tea, offering no response.


    Of course, for Lin Xianzhi, no response was the best response.


    "Master, I havee with two requests this time. Firstly, Xianzhi wishes to avenge the destruction of his path. Secondly, I''ve brought a junior whose talent is like that of Elder Zheng, able to promote the growth of Snake Vine Flowers beyond his rank, suspected to have a Wood Attribute invisible Spiritual Body.


    I earnestly request the Elder to ept him as a nominal disciple, to pass on Elder Zheng''s techniques and invigorate the Lin Family!"


    Lin Xianzhi''s two requests not only surprised the Zi Xuan Hermit before him,


    but Lin Shiming was even more shocked.


    He hadn''t expected that Lin Xianzhi''s reason for bringing him was to bestow upon him such an enormous opportunity!


    What''s more, he had not expected the Snake Vine Flower to be a legacy of Elder Zheng, nor did he realize until now that Elder Zheng had practiced Wood Attribute Techniques, let alone the suggestion that he himself harbored an invisible Spiritual Body.


    In this world, aside from Spirit Roots, there are those even more naturally talented, the bearers of Spiritual Bodies, who must surely possess Heavenly Spirit Roots.


    Of course, the world is not without exception; some with Dual Spirit Roots or Third Spirit Roots may also possess a Spiritual Body, which necessitates the need for a Secret Technique to be elevated to a Minor Divine Ability and reveal its enhancement, that is to say, only after breaking through to the Purple Mansion realm can one know whether they possess an invisible Spiritual Body.


    However, Lin Shiming also calmly thought that his seventh uncle might be getting a little ahead of himself today; these demands were far too unreasonable.


    For family scions, Sects do not usually offer recruitment unless the n members leave the family and pledge their loyalty to the Sect thereafter.


    Among these, a special existence is that of the nominal disciple. For the talented individuals from families, Qingxuan Sect, as the superior Sect, would also tie these talented individuals to the Sect through Elders as nominal disciples.


    But this arrangement obviously benefits the family scions even more, providing support to the Sect at critical moments while normally remaining free from Sect constraints, with the added privilege of learning the Sect''s powerful Cultivation Techniques.


    Lin Shiming did not consider himself a prodigy, feeling incapable of catching the eye of a Purple Mansion Elder.


    Not to mention the cultivation methods of Elder Zheng, which at the very least belonged to the Purple Mansion Techniques and likely reached the earth level.


    When Elder Zheng left the Sect in the past, he was unable to take his Secret Technique with him to pass on to his descendants.


    Even for the first request, Lin Shiming felt it to be a bit too forced. If Lin Xianzhi wanted revenge, he would naturally have to face the Purple Mansion Family ¨C in other words, the Zi Xuan Hermit would need to confront another Purple Mansion Loose.


    Lin Shiming''s heart was already in turmoil, realizing that his seventh uncle hade here, perhaps half for his own sake!


    Of course, it wasn''t just Lin Shiming whose heart was unsettled, but also Lin Xianzhi.


    "Oh," Zi Xuan Hermit raised an eyebrow, suddenly showing interest.


    "Has your Sword Light Differentiated?" His second sentence did not answer the question but instead, he asked one of his own.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xianzhi''s face lit up with excitement, and a Green Lotus manifested on his body, apanied by several leaking Sword Qi.


    This was the initial aplishment of the first realm of understanding Sword Intent.


    "Alright, I agree!" Zi Xuan Hermit finally nodded.


    Then, Lin Xianzhi turned to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, aren''t you going to greet your master and perform the ritual of serving tea?"


    "Greetings, Master!" Lin Shiming hurriedly kowtowed and performed the ritual, then took a teacup from Lin Xianzhi with both hands.


    He turned around and presented the Spiritual Tea to Zi Xuan Hermit with both hands.


    Thetter took the teacup, gently sipped the tea, and with that, the matter was settled. This was the ceremony for acknowledging a named disciple. If it had been for a Direct Disciple, a more substantial ceremony would have been necessary, with moreplex procedures.


    "Now then, for our first meeting, your teacher will gift you a Supreme Grade copper ring defense Magic Artifact, for your protection. Also, remember not to rely on your teacher''s reputation to do things that harm the heavens and reason!" A simple ceremony with a simple gift-giving concluded the event.


    Following that, Lin Xianzhi divided the ten shops he had acquired from the Huang Family, handing seven over to the Sect, or more urately, to the custody of the Sect under the name of Elder Zi Xuan Hermit.


    Lin Shiming watched from the side, his admiration for his great-uncle growing.


    If the Huang Family behaved, it would be fine, but if they did not, they would be in for some real suffering.


    After leaving contact information for further coordination, Lin Xianzhi took Lin Shiming and left. Zi Xuan Hermit would provide the Cultivation Technique to Lin Shiming in three days.


    Of course, Lin Shiming had many questions, and he noticed that Zi Xuan Hermit''s expression had changed the moment his great-uncle revealed the Sword Qi realm of the firstyer of Sword Light Differentiation.


    Moreover, regarding the Cultivation Technique of Elder Yu Zheng, Lin Shiming was puzzled as to why his ability to catalyze the Snake Vine Flower seemed to indicate the presence of an invisible Spiritual Body.


    But since Lin Xianzhi did not offer exnations, as a junior, Lin Shiming had no choice but to continue following behind.


    Their next destination was Qingxuan City at the foot of Qingxuan Mountain, home to thergest trade market in Qingzhou, Qingxuan Market.


    Compared to the remote Xingzhou, Qingxuan Market was many times more prosperous.


    Even Purple Mansion Loose practitioners, rarely seen in Xingzhou, weremon here.


    In this ce, only the Purple Mansion Family or an extremely powerful old Foundation Establishment family could set up shops. Even the Huang Family, Lin Xianzhi''s recent adversary, did not own a shop here.


    And here, one could find magic items from Second Rank to Third Rank, as long as you had enough Spirit Stones.


    Xingzhou needed Foundation Establishment Pills for its auction that took ce once every ten years at Qingxuan Market.


    And right at that moment, Lin Shiming''s system notification sounded again.


    "Please proceed to the stall area, you will obtain a Beast Growth Pill recipe!" Lin Shiming did not expect, upon arriving at Qingxuan City, the system would provide such an important prompt.


    His two Demonic Beasts were quite strong, but far too young. They needed time to grow, and this Beast Growth Spirit Pill was like a rain after a long drought for him.

 Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Beast Nurturing Pill Recipe

    Qingyun Market District was divided into two areas: one was the Free Trade Area, also known as the Stalls Area, and the other was the Shop Area, where the auction hall was located.


    The Stalls Area was noticeably smaller than the Shop Area, but conversely, it was livelier.


    Cultivators came and went, constantly moving about and stopping.


    Lin Shiming followed Lin Xianzhi to the Stalls Area. As a Cultivator in the Foundation Establishment Stage, Lin Xianzhi naturally had little interest in the Stalls Area. After a cursory nce, he headed towards the Shop Area.


    Seeing that Lin Shiming''s gaze was wandering and he seemed quite interested in the Stalls Area, Lin Xianzhi raised his hand and said,


    "I still need to meet a few old friends. You can stroll around by yourself."


    "Thank you, Uncle-Great-Grandfather!" Lin Shiming quickly waved his hands, as he was just worried about finding an excuse to go buy that Beast Nurturing Pill form.


    After saying goodbye to Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming began to wander on his own. Since the system prompt was only a general indication, it still required some effort on his part to find what he was looking for.


    The Cultivators in the Stalls Area were mostly Loose Cultivators, busily touting their treasures.


    Some made a fuss about inheriting a Foundation Establishment cave dwelling, while others boasted about ancestral immortal treasures.


    But with a sweep of his Divine Sense, Lin Shiming shook his head and walked away.


    After browsing for a while, Lin Shiming indeed found some nice things, such as elixirs for cultivation, Spiritual Origin Pills, and even some seeds of Spiritual Medicines.


    Although these items were not essential, the former could speed up cultivation while thetter improved the level of Spirit nt Cultivation.


    Lin Shiming paid for each of them with Spirit Stones, and the prices indeed were a bit cheaper than those at the major trade alliances.


    However, what made Lin Shiming anxious was that from the beginning to the end, he hadn''t seen any Beast Nurturing Pill forms for sale, only some basic spellsmon in the Cultivation world, which he had mostly mastered when he was in his teens.


    "Selling Spirit Beast Eggs, Spirit Beast meat!" Suddenly, Lin Shiming heard a shout.


    Thinking of the Golden Winged Mantis Egg he had previously purchased, he was indeed quite interested in the stall selling eggs.


    Approaching the stall, he saw a middle-aged Cultivator, wearing a ck Spirit Istion Mask, waving at the passing Cultivators.


    At his feety a small stall set with golden silk, which was quite an attractive setup.


    On the stally an egg the size of a washbasin and some indistinguishable Spirit Beast meat, robust with Spiritual Energy, clearly not from ordinary beasts.


    Most passersby were very interested in the egg; being faster than Cultivators flying on swords, a grown Spirit Bird could save one''s life in a critical moment, hence the ceaseless inquiries.


    "Rest assured, this is a Golden Luan Eagle Egg. It''s fast and its attacking power is strong. If it weren''t for the fact that I recently purchased an expensive treasure and ran out of Spirit Stones for my cultivation, I wouldn''t be selling it myself!" the middle-aged Cultivator assured the crowd while patting his chest.


    Some experienced Cultivators, after examining the egg, gave affirming responses.


    "Fellow Daoist, how much is it?"


    "Eight hundred Spirit Stones!" came the undeniable tone of the middle-aged Cultivator, although due to the Spirit Istion Mask, his expression remained unseen to the onlookers.


    At these words, many Cultivators'' expressions turned sour. As Loose Cultivators, eight hundred Spirit Stones could buy them quite a good Superior Grade Magic Artifact¡ªspending that much on a Golden Luan Eagle Egg, whose usefulness was uncertain, was too great a gamble.


    Lin Shiming, who was standing nearby, approached as well, looking at the egg in front of him. He too was somewhat tempted, but he did not have enough Spirit Stones on him. Of course, he had a good number of precious items, such as hundreds of pounds of Spirit Water and Intermediate Grade Second Rank Monkey Wine.


    However, exchanging them in full view of everyone was not an option, as his Qi Cultivation at the sixth level would inevitably attract unwanted attention.


    "Fellow Daoist, how''s it going?" The middle-aged cultivator started off a bit disappointed when he saw the others shaking their heads and sighing, but his spirits lifted the moment Lin Shiming approached.


    "How much for this Spirit Beast meat?" Lin Shiming hesitated and then decided not to purchase the Golden Luan Eagle egg.


    "The meat? It''s all from Second Rank mid-phase Spirit Beasts, brimming with Spiritual Energy, and extremely well-preserved -- at least one Spirit Stone per pound!" The middle-aged cultivator, seeing that Lin Shiming wasn''t interested in buying the egg, spoke with an edge to his tone and even continued to call out for customers while Lin Shiming was inspecting the meat.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t annoyed, and he selected a hundred pounds of Spirit Beast meat, nning to switch up the food for his two Spirit Beasts.


    However, when exchanging the meat for Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming noticed that the middle-aged cultivator had both a Storage Bracelet and a Spirit Beast Bracelet in his hand.


    These Storage Bracelets and Spirit Beast Bracelets were spatial artifacts simr to Storage Bags and Spirit Beast Bags in nature and value, but as far as he knew, Storage Bags were moremonly used within the Qingxuan Sect''s territory.


    This person was from the Spirit Beast Sect!


    Lin Shiming came to a realization in a sh and suddenly thought that the Alchemy recipe for the Beast Nurturing Pill might just be in this cultivator''s possession.


    He had been unable to find it, surely because the present cultivator hadn''t disyed it.


    "Fellow Daoist, I truly am interested in that Spirit Beast Egg, but I''m a bit short on Spirit Stones. How about we go to a nearby trading room? I can show you my treasures?" The moment Lin Shiming thought of the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe, he could no longer care about showing off.


    He had to obtain the Beast Nurturing Pill at all costs.


    "Sure, but you''ll have to pay the rental fee for the trading room!" The middle-aged cultivator paused for a while before agreeing.


    In the trading area, there were trading rooms for rent, designed to protect Loose Cultivators with valuable items during transactions.


    However, they charged Spirit Stones for the rental, and the rate was slightly higher than the three Spirit Stones per hour charged for a stall space -- five Spirit Stones per hour.


    Lin Shiming naturally nodded in agreement. The middle-aged cultivator quickly packed up his stall and, taking the rest of his items, followed Lin Shiming to the trading room.


    Once they confirmed that both the Spirit Istion Formation and the soundproofing spell were activated, Lin Shiming brought out a Magic Artifact in the form of a Jade Bottle, containing exactly one hundred pounds of Spirit Water.


    In a sense, Spirit Water was a universally valuable item like Spirit Stones, after all, both could be used for Cultivation and restoring Spiritual Energy.


    "I''m an Alchemist; all my Spirit Stones usually go toward purchasing Spirit Water. It shouldn''t be a problem to trade with Spirit Water, right?" Lin Shiming handed the Jade Bottle over to the middle-aged cultivator for inspection.


    "There isn''t a problem per se. However, one pound of Spirit Water can only count as eight Spirit Stones!" The middle-aged cultivator, in need of Cultivation resources, was fine with either Spirit Stones or Spirit Water, but his tone betrayed an attempt to drive down the price.


    "Are you joking, Fellow Daoist, or do you really think Spirit Water is amon item?" Lin Shiming, well-versed in these tactics, was not about to let him devalue his offer.


    "The highest I can go is nine Spirit Stones per pound!" The middle-aged cultivator paused for a few breaths before finally speaking up.


    "Fine, but you must have other treasures too, right? I''m an Alchemist, and I have plenty of Spirit Water!" Lin Shiming spoke casually, as if he truly was a wealthy Alchemist, though internally he was starting to get anxious.


    If the recipe for the Beast Nurturing Pill wasn''t there, or if he chose not to sell the recipe, it wouldplicate matters.


    "I do!" The middle-aged cultivator responded without hesitation, taking out several items from his Storage Bag.


    Spirit Beast cages, Spirit Beast hides, Spirit Beast meat, and after a pause, he also produced a Jade Slip.


    "Fellow Daoist, all of my ancestral treasures are here!" The middle-aged cultivator showed each item to Lin Shiming one by one.


    Lin Shiming kept nodding and praising aloud, but inwardly, he was utterly contemptuous; the reasoning wasughably poor¡ªthe residual energy of the Spirit Beast hide and Jade Slip were still fresh. His ancestor must be quite ''young'' indeed!

 Chapter 31: Chapter 31 Purple Wood Heart Sutra

    Inside the trading room.


    "What is this jade slip!" Although odds were it was the jade slip for the Spirit Pill recipe, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but ask.


    Since an alchemist had been mentioned before, it wasn''t odd for Lin Shiming to ask such a question.


    "This is a great item, the Spirit Pill recipe can speed up the growth of spirit beasts; paired with your Golden Luan Eagle, it''s a perfect match!" the middle-aged cultivator heard Lin Shiming ask about the pill recipe and immediately started to show off excitedly.


    Yet Lin Shiming just shook his head and said,


    "The main ingredients for the Spirit Pill are not easy to find, and your jade slip isn''t ancestral, is it?"


    With these words, the middle-aged man''s chest heaved and his breathing hastened, his emotions fluctuated, but Lin Shiming couldn''t see his facial expression, which confirmed a suspicion for him.


    Seeing the middle-aged cultivator didn''t respond, Lin Shiming continued, "I''m not a fool to be cheated; if you intend to swindle arge amount from me for a pill recipe that can be copied at will, then please put away these items."


    Lin Shiming''s words were half warning, half leading.


    The middle-aged cultivator felt extremely frustrated, his earlier smooth talking gone, as he coldly stated,


    "Three hundred spirit stones to take it, two hundred for the beast skin materials! And, you must swear by the Heavenly Dao that you have never seen me..."


    "Agreed!" Lin Shiming was only after the pill recipe and naturally did not care about anything else.


    By this point, if he couldn''t guess that this person had acquired these treasures by killing someone, he would have lived in vain.


    It was probably a young cultivator of some status from the Spirit Beast Sect, or else he wouldn''t have fled directly from the territory of the Spirit Beast Sect to the Qingxuan Sect.


    Lin Shiming took out another fifty catties of Spirit Water, and after the exchange, they both went their separate ways.


    After leaving the trading house, Lin Shiming smiled wryly, thinking that although he might have thought his wealth sufficient, after a round of trading, there wasn''t much Spirit Water left, and he had two big eaters.


    No, possibly three big eaters since he had just bought a Golden Luan Eagle!


    Lin Shiming felt an even bigger headacheing on.


    After contacting Seventh Great-Uncle with a Sound Transmission Talisman, he learned that thetter had already rented an inn.


    As soon as Lin Shiming entered the room, Lin Xianzhi gave him a look and then opened with a light remark,


    "What did you buy that''s attracted so many tails?"


    "A Golden Luan Eagle egg!" Lin Shiming didn''t hide anything and revealed the entire process.


    "Be careful with that eagle of yours; you might be held ountableter on!" Lin Xianzhi frowned and cautioned.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Seventh Great-Uncle; I''m well aware," Lin Shiming acknowledged.


    After offering his advice, Lin Xianzhi asked Lin Shiming to take out all the items for him to inspect with his Foundation Establishment Stage divine sense. He nodded his approval after assuring there were no divine sense markings, then continued his quiet meditation.


    Lin Shiming also quickly entered his room to start his daily cultivation routine.


    Meanwhile, the cultivators who had followed him sensed the spiritual power of a Foundation Establishment cultivator and all reluctantly left.


    Three dayster, Lin Shiming received a message from the Zi Xuan Hermit, stating he had acquired a jade slip from the Qingxuan Sect.


    The jade slip was the Purple Wood Heart Sutra being practiced by an esteemed elder of the Lin Family.


    The Purple Wood Heart Sutra was not an Earth Rank Technique, rather it was of the Profound Rank, Superior Grade, but to Lin Shiming''s delight, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra surprisingly came with a secret technique, the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation!


    Inparison to the Qing Mu Art, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra not only condensed spiritual energy several times more efficiently but also had a greater catalytic effect on spirit nts and provided more substantial benefits to cultivators.


    The technique even mentioned that, once mastered, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra could increase a cultivator''s lifespan.


    It ismonly known that the lifespan of someone in the Qi Refinement Realm is 120 years, the limit for the Foundation Establishment Stage is 250 years, and upon reaching the Purple Mansion Stage, the lifespan reaches 500 years. And if one bes a legendary Golden Core Cultivator, there is a lifespan of a full 1000 years.


    In terms of both consolidating spiritual energy and catalyzing spirit nts, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra greatly appealed to him, proving to be the most suitable cultivation technique for him at the moment.


    The only downside was that it only included the technique content up to the breakthrough to the Purple Mansion stage. For content beyond the Purple Mansion stage, Lin Shiming would need to make significant contributions to the Sect in order to obtain it.


    Lin Shiming didn''t mind, as he was only in the sixth level of Qi Cultivation, which was still far from reaching the Purple Mansion.


    Once he reached the Purple Mansion, he believed that finding a solution wouldn''t be so difficult.


    Having obtained the cultivation technique, Lin Shiming naturally felt even more grateful to his Seventh Great-Uncle, but at the same time, his doubts grew deeper.


    There must have been some agreement between the Seventh Great-Uncle and the Zi Xuan Hermit.


    However, Lin Shiming''s attempt to pry into the situation with indirect questions was decisively cut off by Lin Xianzhi every time.


    Having dealt with the matter of the cultivation technique, the two were about to set off for the Qingyun Marketce. Apanying them was another direct disciple of the Zi Xuan Hermit, the brother Xie who had passed the wine, Xie An.


    Although his age was simr to Lin Xianzhi''s, his cultivation level had already reached thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Lin Shiming understood that the appearance of this senior brother was not only to take over the operations of the Qingyun Marketce''s shop but also to support the Lin Family''s presence there.


    ...


    In the Qingyun Marketce, in front of a deste street.


    The old decorations, paired with the brand-new store signs, made each shop seem so incongruous and out of ce.


    Lin Yuqing and Lin Houyuan, apanied by the Lin Family''s fellow disciples, looked at the ten shops before them and immediately felt indignant.


    The Huang Family had indeed provided shops, but the ones before them were at the very corner of Qingyun Marketce, originally the warehouses in front of other shops and a ce where cultivators and shop assistants could rest and cultivate.


    It would take an entirerge circle to get to the bustling streets of the marketce.


    To say these shops made a yearly ie of a thousand Spirit Stones would be a miracle in management, let alone breaking even.


    The Lin Family couldn''t evenin, as the Huang Family had indeed given ten shops.


    As for the provided Spirit nts, they were a hundred dry Spirit Trees, either old or half-dead.


    Even under the careful cultivation of a Spirit nt Master, the future yield would be minuscule.


    "This Huang Family is bullying us too much!" The elders were stillposed, but the younger generation of cultivators, bearing the ''Hou'' and ''Shi'' generations, were all infuriated.


    "Inform the Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Houyuan also felt somewhat helpless. This was the situation when a familycked a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage.


    Lacking the right to speak, they would face targeting at every turn.


    Just then, a Spirit Boat appeared in the sky, and three figures descended from it.


    "What''s happened?"


    Lin Xianzhi descended first, his white hair extremely noticeable.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, these are the shops given by the Huang Family." As the Family Head, Lin Houyuan reported the Huang Family''s attitude and the condition of the shops and Spirit Trees, one by one.


    He didn''t exaggerate; as the Family Head, he not only had to consider the emotions of his people and the interests of the family but also the realbat power of both families.


    The situation now involved not merely Huang Kaiyu and Huang Kaiyu of the early Foundation Establishment stage from the Huang Family, but Huangyun Qi with a more senior generation.


    He was the onlyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Huang Family.


    "Let''s go!" Lin Xianzhi nodded slightly, his face still as calm as ever.


    The Lin Family members trusted their old patriarch greatly and felt assured, following him forward.


    After making a big detour, they finally arrived at the bustling street.


    Individual cultivators walked among the stalls, and unlike the Qingxuan Marketce, this ce was close to the Qingyun Mountain Range, where many loose cultivators formed groups to hunt demons in the mountains.


    There was a greater need for high-quality Spirit Talismans, Spirit Pills, and Spiritual Artifacts, naturally leading them to shops that guaranteed quality.


    If a Spirit Talisman bought at a loose cultivator''s stall failed to work, or a Magic Artifact fell apart, there wouldn''t even be a ce to cry about it.


    "Let''s go, this shop does good business!" Lin Xianzhi walked to the busiest section and picked a shop run by the Huang Family''s Artifact Refining operations to approach.

 Chapter 32: Chapter 32: How about we have a match?

    The Huang Artifact Refinery Shop was divided into two floors, with the first floor sellingmon and intermediate-grade magic artifacts, mainly catering to Qi Cultivation practitioners in the early and middle stages, while the second floor featured superior and supreme-grade magic artifacts.


    In terms of decoration, the design was intricate, with the first-floor wooden door carved with fierce tigers and delicate roses, and the second floor adorned with dragons and phoenixes dancing, symbolizing profound meanings.


    The Huang Family came from a lineage of artifact refiners, boasting three Third-Rank Artifact Refiners within their n.


    Their artifact refining business was also surprisingly sessful.


    Lin Xianzhi, apanied by arge group of Lin Family cultivators, had arrived, and their light words immediately drew the attention of the Huang Family cultivators.


    One of the wooden windows on the second floor opened to reveal an elder in a yellow brocade robe, appearing before everyone''s eyes. The tea in front of the elder had long since lost its warmth, as if he had been waiting for a considerable time.


    It was Huangyun Qi, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Huang Family.


    From his elevated position, he looked down at the Lin Family members, finally fixing his gaze on Lin Xianzhi.


    "Nephew Xianzhi, you schemed to trick us out of several of our shops and over a hundred Spirit Trees. Now youe here, possibly to bully an old man like me!"


    One reference to ''nephew,'' one mention of ''bullying.''


    Suddenly, a greatmotion arose among the loose cultivators and the families of other shops.


    Many had heard the rumor that Lin Xianzhi was grievously injured and beyond cure, and yet now he had dared to confront the Huang Family.


    "Old Huangyun Qi really knows how to bite first like an evil dog!" Lin Xianzhi was not angered and spoke calmly about the affair of Peach Blossom Valley, leaving right and wrong to be distinguished by others.


    "Lin Xianzhi, I won''t quibble with you. I have already made concessions. Do you really want to engage in a magical contest with me?" Huangyun Qi let out a cold shout, and as he released histe-stage Foundation Establishment spiritual pressure, it turned into a wave of Spirit Might, bearing down on the hearts of the Lin Family cultivators.


    "I''m offering you the shop out of respect, recognizing the Lin Family as a Foundation Establishment n. If it weren''t for this respect, today you wouldn''t even dream of taking away a single shop!"


    Huangyun Qi''s aura and presence broke forth, instantly creating a powerful sense of oppression, and his words became increasingly sharp.


    Especially those eyes, which did not bear the aged look of an elderly person but were instead full of vitality, with a contained killing intent.


    He certainly looked as if he was on the verge of starting a fight at any moment, and indeed, Huangyun Qi had the confidence to do so. Xingzhou was a remote region with fewer resourcespared to other states, and the Purple Mansion Family only had one branch, which was the Huang Family''s inws, the Li Family.


    In this Qingyun Market, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator was already a towering presence.


    "Do you intend to defy the Qingxuan Sect?" Lin Xianzhi flicked his finger lightly, and a Qingxuan Spirit Contract soared into the air.


    With a minor spell, he projected the energy of True Yuan, which highlighted the words on the Spirit Contract and the signature of Huang Kaiyu for all of Qingyun Market to see.


    The Spirit Contract, with its white paper and ck characters, detailed how the Huang Family attacked the Lin Family and, upon facing defeat, begged for mercy, without missing a single word.


    All the cultivators who saw this were immediately in an uproar.


    Although to loose cultivators, the major ns were not often seen in a good light, such encroachment on others'' territory and even contemting murder to seize treasures crossed a line for all loose cultivators.


    Suddenly, the Huang Family became the target of widespread condemnation, and many cultivators even suggested returning the magic artifacts they had just bought.


    They also resolved not to make any more purchases from the Huang Family, lest their own wealth be a target for the Huang Family''s malicious schemes.


    "Lin Xianzhi,e, let''s see if you''ve made any progress in these thirty years!" Huangyun Qi was furious, his face turning dark with a purple hue.


    He had not expected the Lin Family to dare such a move under his Spirit Might.


    Today, he had to make an example of Lin Xianzhi to let all the loose cultivators and families in Xingzhou know what the dignity of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator meant.


    "Huangyun Qi, why don''t we have a match?" Suddenly, a voice came from beside the Lin Family members.


    A purple-robed cultivator stepped out.


    It was none other than Xie An, who had been instructed by Lin Xianzhi numerous times to conceal his cultivation level and spiritual energy.


    As a Sect Cultivator and a direct disciple of the Purple Mansion with boundless potential, he naturally had a wealth of knowledge about various Spirit Arts. It was therefore a trivial matter for him to hide his cultivation level from Huangyun Qi.


    "Another Foundation Establishmentte-stage!" At this point, both the other Lin Family cultivators and the Loose Cultivators were extremely surprised.


    "Who are you?" Huangyun Qi suppressed his anger. He was somewhat perplexed, but he still channeled his magic sword.


    In his eyes, it didn''t matter how many enemies there were; he only knew that the Huang Family had to establish their might!


    "Xie An, a direct disciple of Qingxuan Sect, by orders of my master Zi Xuan Hermit, came to take over the seven shops!" Xie An''s eyebrows rose as he spoke indifferently.


    His words frightened Huangyun Qi half to death.


    The teacup was knocked flying identally,pletely upsetting hisposure.


    In a rush, he descended from the second floor of the Huang Family''s artifact refining shop, his eyes filled with unease. In his heart, he prayed and cheered for himself numerous times, hoping this was not really a Qingxuan Sect direct disciple.


    But who would dare to impersonate a direct disciple? Especially a Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivator.


    "Regarding the Huang Family''s shops, I will report to my masterter. Additionally, I would like to ask Huang Daoist for a demonstration of your might to see if it''s as fierce as before," Xie An stated.


    Xie An''s words turned Huangyun Qi''s face from bad to worse, his Foundation Establishmentte-stage demeanorpletely gone.


    Setting aside that he dared not engage in a spell fight with a Sect disciple, the Foundation Establishmentte-stage Sect cultivators were far superior to their family cultivators. After all, their Cultivation Techniques and Magic Artifacts couldn''tpare.


    Not to mention that there was a Purple Mansion Loose behind it all.


    Huangyun Qi also knew about Zi Xuan Hermit, a well-established Purple Mansion Loose.


    But what confused him was that Lin Xianzhi had refused to leave the family and be a direct disciple, which should mean that Zi Xuan Hermit and the Lin Family had parted ways.


    Not without good reason was Huangyun Qi a veteran in these affairs, knowing that sometimes the situation was beyond one''s control. Saying anything more was useless, he quickly waved his hand.


    "There must have been some mistake with the ten shops; since Zi Xuan Hermit wants them, my Huang Family will give up two more shops!" Despite the smile on his face, Huangyun Qi was bleeding inside.


    In the Qingyun market, their Huang Family owned thirty percent, but most of the shops were rented out. Toe up with twelve shops, they would have to pay a heavy price to take them back from the tenants.


    This operation would result in a loss of tens of thousands of Spirit Stones, and these shops were the family''s foundation. After this move, the family''s foundation would be severely weakened.


    If they did not find new sources of wealth, it would be difficult for the Huang Family to support even three Foundation Establishment cultivators, let alone nurture the younger generation.


    Seeing Huangyun Qi apologize like this, both Xie An and Lin Xianzhi decided to ept the offer, knowing that pushing too hard could lead to desperate actions from the other side, which would benefit no one if it came down to a matter of life and death.


    For the Lin Family members, the previous gloom was swept away, reced by a sense of exhration.


    The subsequent matters were straightforward. The Huang Family agreed to gather twelve shops within a day and proactively offered to give the Huang''s Artifact Refining Shop to the Lin Family.


    The Lin Family kept the promise and gave the seven shops to Zi Xuan Hermit but managed them on his behalf, while the remaining two better shops were given to Xie An.


    The Lin Family still gained three shops as before.


    Each shop could bring in a few thousand Spirit Stones a year, instantly revitalizing the Lin Family''s finances.


    Moreover, the production of the Lin Family''s Spiritual Wine was also on schedule. A special restaurant would be opened to sell Second Rank Inferior Grade Qing Peach Spiritual Wine and Second Rank Intermediate Grade Monkey Wine.


    The Monkey Wine was developed by the family''s brewmasters, who after a month of repeated adjustments and brewing, created it. Although it didn''t have the exact taste of natural Monkey Wine, it was nearly the same, with all the effects of Monkey Wine intact. It was bound to make a ssh in the market and earn a fortune.

 Chapter 33: Chapter 33 Family Inventory

    Fangmu Mountain, the morning sun rose early in the sky, heralding the end ofte spring and the arrival of early summer.


    The mildly spicy sunlight burned away much of the mist that surrounded the mountain, making Fangmu Mountain appear even more resplendent.


    At this moment, the Spirit Peach Tree on the mountainside was also radiating a thick spiritual glow, crystal clear and brimming with spiritual energy.


    And at this time, the mountain was adorned withnterns and streamers, bustling with more activity than usual with peopleing and going.


    It was the annual year-end summary day of the Lin Family.


    On this day, all cultivators of the Lin Family, unless absolutely unable to get away, would make it a point to return to the n regardless of how far away or busy they were.


    Because this moment was not only the glory of the family, but also their own glory, as well as the recognition and affirmation of the family for their efforts over thest three years.


    Lin Shiming was also in the council hall; the appointed time had not yet arrived.


    Lin Shiming saw many faces he had not seen for a long time: Uncle Thirteen Lin Houwei who was sipping from his wine jug from time to time, Second Uncle Lin Houshou who was always serious and acting like an elder, his Third Sister Lin Shiqi who always imed to have a secret, and his eldest brother Lin Shijie who carried the reputation and responsibility of the ''Shi'' generation, as well as Lin Shiyi and Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming went forward to greet each of them one by one and catch up on old times.


    Just then, a faint voice rang out.


    "Seventh Brother, long time... no see!" Hearing this weak voice, Lin Shiming''s memory inexplicably returned to that rainy night, the peach blossoms barely blooming.


    The young girl timidly knocked on the door, calling out "Immortal Master" and asking if he wanted some tea.


    The past events seemed like they happened just yesterday.


    Lin Shiming turned his head and saw that the pale and frail young girl from that time had transformed into a littless wearing a green dress.


    Herplexion had greatly improved, her facial features had be very delicate, and she was very much a beauty in the making, a stark contrast from before.


    She had also grown a bit taller.


    Furthermore, her cultivation level had increased; having not seen her for two months, she had already reached the Fourth Layer of the Innate stage, a talent of the Second Spirit Root, truly terrifying!


    To think that it took Lin Shiming a full half-year to reach the Fourth Layer of the Innate stage.


    However, like before, she was still easily embarrassed, only timidly calling him Seventh Brother.


    "Shitao, not bad, you''ve been very diligent in your cultivation!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but praise her, feeling a sense of achievement over the young girl he had helped raise, though of course, he had no other intentions.


    However, Lin Shiqi suddenly walked over.


    "Seventh Brother, you''ve made Shitao''s face turn red!" Lin Shiqi''s suggestive words came over.


    Lin Shitao''s face grew even redder, and with an offhand remark about visiting other elders, she hurriedly went off to the group of people including Lin Zhong and Lin An.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but darken his face and let out a long sigh, admitting to himself that he was afraid of this Third Sister of his.


    "Third Sister, the year-end assembly is about to start," Lin Shiming found an excuse to muddle through.


    Just then, Lin Houyuan stepped up to the stage, and the old patriarch of the Lin Family, Lin Xianzhi sitting in the main seat, began to announce the start of the year-end summary.


    "Hou Yuan, start the summary assembly. You may first report on the family members'' situation,"


    Lin Houyuan straightened his clothing and began to speak in a clear voice:


    "Reporting to the Seventh Great-Uncle, in the new year, the cultivation levels of the Lin Family cultivators are as follows: one Foundation Establishment Stage cultivator, seven Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, with the addition of Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elder Lin Houyong from the Hou generation, who made a breakthrough after the battle at Peach Blossom Valley, twenty in thete stage of Qi Cultivation, with three newte-stage cultivators including Lin Houfu from the Hou generation, Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo from the Shi generation, forty-two in the middle stage of Qi Cultivation, with nine new middle-stage cultivators, and additionally, thirty in the early stage of Qi Cultivation, twelve Innate cultivators!"


    "Currently, those in the Family with promising chances to achieve Foundation Establishment include Lin Houyuan and Lin Houyong of the Hou generation, who are important individuals for the Family to focus on."


    "From the Shi generation, Lin Shijie and Lin Shitao have double Spirit Roots, and Lin Shiming has a Third Spirit Root but has already be a registered disciple of the Qingxuan Sect and has made significant contributions to the Family; they will also be included as key figures for support."


    After Lin Houyuan announced thepletion of the report, the Great Elder began to announce the financial status of the Family.


    "Reporting to the Seventh Great-Uncle, in the new year, the financial status is as follows: the Lin Family n treasury has a total of 26,542 Spirit Stones.


    In addition, the Family''s annual ie includes the following: the Qinglian Pool has expanded due to the increase in the Spirit Vein, and can produce 2,000 Spirit Stones of Spirit Water every year, which is 500 more than in previous years; the Spirit Peach Trees and other Spirit Fruit trees total 140, yielding an average of 4,000 Spirit Stones every year, which is 3,000 more than before; profits from Xing County Square Market are 1,000 Spirit Stones, with no increase; merchant fleet profits are 2,000 Spirit Stones, with no increase; the Demon Hunting Team''s yearly estimated profit from hunting demons is 2,000 Spirit Stones, after deducting the share for the team members; in addition, there are three new properties in Qingxuan Square Market, with an estimated revenue of 4,000 Spirit Stones!"


    "The total annual ie is 15,000 Spirit Stones, which is an increase of 7,500 Spirit Stonespared to before, a cause for celebration.


    Additionally, the expenditure situation is as follows: early-stage Qi Cultivation sries are ten Spirit Stones each year, mid-stage cultivators twenty each year,te-stage cultivators fifty each year, Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elders one hundred basic sry each year, Foundation Establishment cultivators five hundred each year, totaling an estimated 3,300 Spirit Stones needed for sries; additionally, the Family''s estimated extra sries for various positions are 2,000 Spirit Stones, daily consumption of Spirit Stones for formations and Spirit nts is 1,000, with a total expenditure of 6,300 Spirit Stones needed, resulting in a surplus of 8,700 Spirit Stones!"


    Having said this, Lin Yuqing''s face beamed with joy; this year''s ie had increased by 7,500 Spirit Stonespared to previous years, and the Lin Family didn''t need to send outrge numbers of the Demon Hunting Team members to risk their lives in the Qingyun Mountain Range for just a few Spirit Stones.


    Moreover, the Family was even more confident about the trip to obtain Foundation Establishment Pills three years from now.


    As long as there are more Foundation Establishment cultivators, the Family will be able to upy more territory and cultivate even more exceptional talents.


    After Lin Yuqing finished speaking, Lin Yuqi introduced the situation of the Family''s Alchemists; currently, there was only Lin Yuqi who was a Superior Grade Second Rank Alchemist.


    There were two Intermediate Grade Second Rank Alchemists, both from the Hou generation, and three Inferior Grade Second Rank Alchemists, showing no increasepared to before, as Alchemy is a skill that requires a lot of time and cannot make swift progress.


    The situation with the Lin Family''s artifact refining, talisman-making, formation arranging, and Spirit nt Masters was more or less the same, with little change, except for Lin Shiqi of the Shi generation, who had advanced from an Inferior Grade Second Rank Spirit nt Master to an Intermediate Grade Second Rank Spirit nt Master.


    This surprised everyone.


    Lin Houshou, as the guardian of the Treasure Pavilion, although about to break through to a Superior Grade Second Rank Array Master, was still a bit short.


    After everyone reported, all the members of the Lin Family were filled with joy, as this year''s changes were too significantpared to previous years.


    The old Patriarch came around; the Family now had Foundation Establishment cultivators, the Family''s finances had improved, and there were also more geniuses.


    At this point, Lin Xianzhi, seeing that everyone had finished reporting, continued to speak:


    "Yu Qing, let me add a few words!"


    "Firstly, from now on, the Green Lotuses produced by the Qinglian Pool will also be counted as part of the Family''s ie. I will no longer use them for healing, which can provide an additional 1,000 Spirit Stones each year!" Upon hearing this, all the members of the Lin Family were stirred.


    The financial situation of the Lin Family hadn''t been good over the years, with the Green Lotus Spirit nts from the Lin Family''s Spirit Pool all being supplied to the old Patriarch; naturally, in everyone''s eyes, as the strongestbatant, the old Patriarch deserved to use the Spirit nts to improve his cultivation level and for healing.


    Lin Yuqing and others began to persuade him, saying that only if Lin Xianzhi became stronger would the Lin Family have more say.


    But this was rebuffed by Lin Xianzhi''s firm gaze.


    "Secondly, once the Family''s Monkey Wine is brewed, it could at least double the ie from the Spirit Peaches, an additional increase of 2,000 Spirit Stones!


    Of course, some of this ie was promised to Shiming before, so each year the Lin Family will give Lin Shiming 500 Spirit Stones, and the rest will be reserved for buying him a Foundation Establishment Pill once Shiming reaches Qi Cultivation Ninth Level!"


    If the previous words had been somewhat shocking, these words were like thunder, striking at the hearts of all present.


    The Family would buy a Foundation Establishment Pill for Lin Shiming!


    It is known that a single Foundation Establishment Pill, whenpeted for, would cost at least 80,000 Spirit Stones, often reaching over 100,000 Spirit Stones in auctions, a considerable sum for the Lin Family.


    "Silence!" Lin Xianzhi raised his voice again.


    The noisy scene was quieted by thismand, fallingpletely silent.


    "Lastly, I announce that from today onwards, everyone''s basic sry will be doubled! Additionally, for those we support, each member of the Shi generation will receive an annual subsidy of 300 Spirit Stones, and Hou Yuan and Hou Yong an additional 500 Spirit Stones each year."


    Upon hearing this, all members of the Lin Family cheered. Sufficient support in Spirit Stones meant they would go further, and their descendants would go even further.

 Chapter 34: Chapter 34 Family Arrangements

    The joy of Spirit Stones overflowed in everyone''s hearts; every Cultivator was grateful to be born in the Lin Family and to be striving for it. Each growth of the Lin Family had a step of their effort in it.


    At this moment, the unity of the Lin Family was unprecedentedly concentrated.


    The path to immortality was still elusive, but at least it was clearer than before. Compared to Loose Cultivators who fought tooth and nail just to obtain a few Spirit Stones, they were truly fortunate.


    They had their n''s protection, Spirit Stones for cultivation, the experience of elders, and all sorts of cultivation techniques!


    Wealth,panions,ws, andnd¡ªeverything was in ce.


    After the inventory of the n''s resources and the issuance of new policies had ended, Lin Houyuan, as the Family Head, began to make further adjustments to the n.


    "In view of Shiming''s proactive application and bringing unexpected benefits to the n, the family will lift the prohibition against leaving the mountain before the age of twenty. From now on, family members who are at least fifteen years old and in the mid-stage of Qi Cultivation can apply to leave the mountain for an official position," he announced.


    "Moreover, bing a n-certified Alchemist, Artifact Refiner, Spirit nt Master, Array Master, or Spirit-Seeking Master wille with additional rewards!"


    "The reward for discovering a Spirit Root will be increased by thirty percent, and the reward for giving birth to a Spirit Root member will be increased by fifty percent."


    As each new policy was issued, the eyes of the Lin Family Cultivators shone brighter with excitement.


    They were like the rising sun at dawn, fiery and dazzling.


    Summer was approaching when the sunlight would be even more intense, even brighter!


    The annual summary came to a close while the Elders, Lin Shiming, and Lin Shijie were kept behind.


    Lin Shijie was puzzled, while Lin Shiming had some idea.


    The n couldn''t have made so many moves without a purpose.


    All eyes were on Lin Xianzhi.


    Feeling everyone''s gaze, Lin Xianzhi didn''t mince words and spoke directly:


    "At present, our family must be wary of two hostile ns¡ªthe Huang Family of Huangshan with Foundation Establishment and the Purple Mansion Li Family of Qingyun Mountain!"


    That statement immediately silenced the previously joyful Elders.


    For the Lin Family, the Foundation Establishment Huang Family was a mountain that would take many years to surpass.


    As for the unthinkably powerful Purple Mansion Li Family, it was an even greater challenge.


    Not even Fangmu Mountain''s Third Rank Superior Grade Formation could stop a Purple Mansion Cultivator.


    In front of the huge gap in cultivation levels, all manpower and resources seemed inadequate to bridge the divide.


    Yet the development of the n made conflict with these two unavoidable.


    The Huang Family had already be an overtly irreconcble enemy, while the Li Family of the Purple Mansion was the main culprit behind the Lin Family''s decline and also the only Purple Mansion Family in Xingzhou. If not for the Lin Family''s connections with the Qingxuan Sect and Lin Xianzhi''s own apprenticeship under the Zi Xuan Hermit, the Lin Family might have long been exterminated.


    "Shiming, have your say!" Lin Xianzhi''s eyes swept over those of the Yu generation, then the Hou generation, finally settling on Lin Shiming.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming believes that it is currently like trying to stop a chariot with one''s arm to confront the Li Family. Moreover, in in sight, with the Qingxuan Sect and the Zi Xuan Hermit as buffers, the Li Family won''t act too excessively in the short term. But the Huang Family, as the Li Family''spdog, having suffered such a loss, will definitely take action!"


    "But we cannot just sit here and wait for death; we must take the initiative to strike!"


    "The first move, Shiming believes, is that three years from now, not only must we get the Foundation Establishment Pill and promote new Foundation Establishment Cultivators, but we must also ensure the Huang Family doesn''t get any new Foundation Establishment Pills!" Lin Shiming slowly stated.


    "Their financial resources are absolutely insufficient after this battle!"


    "Furthermore, ambush the young prodigies of the Huang Family''s Demon Hunting Team who have been hunting demonstely!" Lin Shiming''s two demands shone brightly in the eyes of the Elders. As a young member of the ''Shi'' generation, not yet twenty, his perspective on matters even surpassed that of many older ''Hou'' generation Cultivators.


    Indeed, the Huang Family faced a situation simr to their past, with the Foundation Establishment Conference three years away, and having lost so many shops this time, their spirit stones have at least shrunken by tens of thousands all at once. Unless they reduce the sry of their family members, they must find new sources of revenue.


    Adventure and demon hunting in the Qingyun Mountain Range is the most reliable option.


    "Shiming is right!" Lin Xianzhi nodded, fully agreeing with Lin Shiming''s statements, and after his approval, he gave a series of orders.


    "Hou Yuan, you must protect the secret form of Monkey Wine. It is the most important point for us to have sufficient financial resources three years from now! Everyone involved in the brewing process must be a core member of the family!"


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle!"


    "Yu Qing, you lead the Demon Hunting Team, responsible for investigating the Cultivators of the Huang Family''s hunting team. Remember to be secretive and careful, and if necessary, pull in some Loose Cultivators. They ambushed our Peach Blossom Valley; we must retaliate in kind. An eye for an eye is only fair!"


    "Yes, Seventh Uncle!" Lin Yuqing''s voice rang clear and resolute. Although he might not be adept at strategic nning, as a Body Cultivator, he had never feared anyone in the Qi Refinement Realm, and investigating the hunting teams targeting the Huang Family Cultivators was his forte.


    "Yu Qi, Yu Tie, both of you are to leave Xing County Square Market and take charge of the Qingxuan Square Market. The newly promoted Elder Hou Yong will rece you in managing Xing County Square Market. You may seek assistance from my senior brother Xie An to take back the market of spirit pills and magical artifacts from the Huang Family.


    After thest conflict, their reputation has already been tarnished."


    "Yes, Seventh Uncle!" Lin Yuqi and Lin Yutie responded together.


    "Yu Zheng, for the caravan arrangements, assign a ''Hou'' generation Cultivator at the eighth level of Qi Refinement to take charge. You are responsible for the sales of Spiritual Wine, and additionally allot 20% of Monkey Wine''s profit to Master Xie!"


    "Yes, Seventh Uncle!"


    ns were set in motion, and everyone left, ready and filled with a pent-up breath.


    Previously, they had no Foundation Establishment Cultivators to rely on; now they not only had such cultivators but also the support of Lin Xianzhi''s senior brother.


    Cultivators naturally defy the heavens, so why fear a battle!


    At that moment, all the Elders were filled with fighting spirit!


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but think of the chess game at Qinglian Pool.


    The Lin Family was like the whites continuously being devoured, while the Huang and Li families were the encircling cks.


    The whites kept retreating as advancement, something the cks would care little for, but once the white showed any will to counterattack, they would face the cks'' savage oppression.


    Peach Blossom Valley was a counterattack, and the Lin Family had no room left to retreat!


    Leaving the Council Hall, Lin Shiming undoubtedly felt heavy, his shoulders burdened with a great weight. Three years, breaking through to the seventh level of Qi Cultivation in three years would require significant opportunity.


    With a somewhat restless heart, Lin Shiming then headed towards the Pill Pavilion of the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi.


    He was ready for a period of arduous cultivation, but before that, he had to concoct the Beast Nurturing Pill.


    The enhancement of the two Spirit Beasts'' strength was also urgently needed.

 Chapter 35: Chapter 35: Beast Nurturing Pill

    The Alchemy Pavilion of the Lin Family was established in a cave on the back hillside of Fangmu Mountain. In the early years, the esteemed Purple Mansion Hermit captured some earth fire within Fangmu Mountain, forming both the Alchemy Pavilion and the Artifact Refining Pavilion.


    At its peak, there were even Third Rank Alchemists and Artifact Refiners who practiced their crafts here together.


    Cultivators in the Qi Refinement Realm,cking a Foundation Establishment Spirit tform, could not release true fire, and ordinary mes were unable to produce the necessary temperature.


    It was only through the use of Formations to trap earth fire that they could engage in alchemy and artifact refining.


    Lin Shiming walked from the cave into the underground great hall.


    The decorations within the great hall were all carved with numerous fireproof Formations and protective Formations.


    "Shiming, you''ve arrived," said the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, who had already received Lin Shiming''s Transmission Talisman. He had not been cultivating elixirs but was inside the great hall, teaching several alchemy apprentices.


    His expression wasn''t very good, however, as it was apparent that the intelligence of these apprentices from the Shi generation wasn''t particrly high.


    "Shiming pays respect to Second Grandpa!" Lin Shiming quickly greeted him. Lin Shiming had a lot of respect for this Second Grandpa.


    After all, it was he who, along with a handful of Alchemists, not only maintained the supply of Elixirs in demand by the family, but also supported the sale of Elixirs in Xing County Square Market and the trade caravans, and now was even supporting Qingyun Square Market.


    "You all continue to familiarize yourselves with Spiritual Medicine. Tomorrow at noon, I wille to test you again!" Lin Yuqi waved his hand, dismissing the apprentices.


    The apprentices felt relieved and quickly nodded in acknowledgment before leaving.


    "What kind of Spirit Pill are you nning to refine?" With the apprentices having left, Lin Yuqi became interested. In Shiming''s Transmission Talisman, he had mentioned a new alchemy recipe.


    Without hesitation, Lin Shiming took out the recipe for the Beast Nurturing Pill from his Storage Bag and handed it over to Lin Yuqi.


    Lin Yuqi took the Jade Slip, and his Divine Sense sank into it. Momentster, his face became serious.


    With a hand seal, Spirit Light suddenly shed around them, and a soundproof Spirit Formation was activated.


    "How did youe by this! Does Uncle Seven know about it?" Lin Yuqi stared at Lin Shiming, his gaze seemingly filled with anger.


    Lin Shiming was somewhat puzzled but still recounted the day''s events in detail, which calmed Lin Yuqi''s anxious heart.


    "Shiming, Second Grandpa is getting old and can''t withstand shocks anymore. Remember to be cautious in your future endeavors; for Cultivators, caution can never be overemphasized!" Lin Yuqi said with some emotion.


    In an instant, Lin Shiming suddenly felt that the old man before him seemed to have aged and started to admit defeat.


    Although he was a Cultivator, intense alchemy was far more exhausting than cultivation itself.


    Then he thought of the legend that this Second Grandpa had once had the opportunity to achieve Foundation Establishment. Why he chose alchemy instead was something Lin Shiming did not understand.


    "This alchemy process should be fine. Except for the main ingredient, the Three Petals Flower is difficult to find, the other Spiritual Medicines are rathermon," Lin Yuqi started exining the recipe.


    The recipe for the Beast Nurturing Pill was just an Intermediate Grade Spirit Pill of the Second Rank; for Lin Yuqi, a Superior Grade Second Rank Alchemist, it posed no problem at all.


    "Please advise, where can I purchase the Three Petals Flower?" Lin Shiming asked.


    "No need to purchase, the family''s trade caravan has acquired some, but the Spirit Stones will be deducted from your sry. If it''s not enough, we''ll deduct for two years, three years, whatever is necessary, since your sry is still higher than that of us old men!"


    "Alright, then many thanks to Second Grandpa!" Lin Shiming''s heart leaped with joy as he quickly extended his thanks.


    "Come and collect the Elixir in three days!" After saying that, Lin Yuqi began preparing for alchemy; Lin Shiming bid farewell and left.


    Regarding Alchemy, Lin Shiming had also thought about learning it himself, but considering that in three years, he feared he might not even reach the Qi Cultivation seventhyer, he gave up the idea of engaging in Alchemy and Spirit nts and focused solely on cultivation.


    Three dayster, Lin Shiming collected ten bottles of elixirs on time from Lin Yuqi.


    There were a total of one hundred and twenty Beast Nurturing Pills. Since the prescription was given to the Second Elder, which offset the material cost of 2000 Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming only spent 300 Spirit Stones. As for the fee for Alchemy, Lin Yuqi was generous enough not to charge Lin Shiming.


    One should know that once such Beast Nurturing Pills appeared on the market, one pill would cost at least eighty Spirit Stones, and they would be in high demand with scarcely any avable for sale. If the Lin Family could sell these Beast Nurturing Pills, it would definitely bring extra profit to the n.


    Of course, that was just a thought; as soon as the Lin Family sold such pills, not even the Qingxuan Sect could protect them. The Spirit Beast Sect''s Golden Core True Persons were far more numerous than those of the Qingxuan Sect, not to mention the many Golden Core Demonic Beasts.


    That would truly be seeking one''s own death.


    After leaving the Alchemy Pavilion, Lin Shiming returned to his room and released the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis.


    As soon as the two beasts were released, they sat upright with an understanding, gesturing with their paws and revealing looks of confusion in their eyes.


    They seemed puzzled as to why today''s mealtime was earlier than usual.


    At this moment, the Red-haired Demon Monkey truly epted Lin Shiming as its master. With the Spirit Contract, Lin Shiming found that the intelligence of the Red-haired Demon Monkey was quite a bit higher than that of the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Lin Shiming took out the pill bottle of Beast Nurturing Pills and ced one in front of each beast''s mouth.


    Surprisingly, both beasts devoured the Beast Nurturing Pills like they were exquisite delicacies.


    They then squeaked and hooted for Spirit Water and Spirit Food.


    It seemed that after swallowing the Beast Nurturing Pills, there were no noticeable changes; however, what followed was beyond Lin Shiming''s expectations.


    The two beasts'' appetites increased three to four times, and their absorption of Spirit Water became even more intense.


    After eating their fill, the two beasts climbed onto Lin Shiming''s shoulders, one on the left and one on the right, their bodies shining with Spirit Light and radiating heat.


    It appeared they were ready to have a satisfying deep sleep on Lin Shiming''s shoulders.


    But with the current sizes of the Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming couldn''t let them sleep on his shoulders. He picked up one in each hand and put them both into the Spirit Beast Bag.


    Lin Shiming now roughly understood the function of the Beast Nurturing Pill; it increased the Spirit Beasts'' absorption of Spiritual Energy to elerate their growth.


    With a full one hundred and twenty Beast Nurturing Pills in his possession, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but ponder what the two beasts would eventually grow into.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, putting aside other thoughts, and went to the Treasure Pavilion, ready to exchange enough Spirit Pills and return to Qingtao Mountain for cultivation.


    The walk from the Pill Pavilion to the Treasure Pavilion wasn''t far, and in less than a quarter of an hour, Lin Shiming could see the Treasure Pavilion in the distance.


    Since the annual meeting had just taken ce, and more Spirit Stones were distributed, there were more n members here to exchange for treasures.


    "Little Seven!" A hearty voice called out, and upon closer inspection, Lin Shiming saw that it was his second brother, Lin Shiyi.


    "Little Seven, Big Brother is too powerful, and there''s not much difference between you and me. Plus, you are a registered disciple of the Purple Mansion Hermit. How about we spar with each other?"


    Lin Shiming initially wanted to decline, but seeing the eager look in Lin Shiyi''s eyes, he nodded in agreement.


    Towards his honest and straightforward second brother, who was a Body Cultivator, Lin Shiming had a rather good impression.

 Chapter 36: 36 chapters of green peaches for two years

    In front of the majestic and imposing Treasure Pavilion, Lin Houshou still stood guard, now joined by a junior of the "Shi" generation.


    When Lin Shiming exchanged for elixirs, it was mainly that "Shi" generation cultivator who followed the rules to carry out the transaction.


    Uncle, deep in thought, still held a jade slip in his hands, seemingly researching formations, his research causing him such a headache that his expression was one of bitter frustration.


    Lin Shiming had sold the second rank superior grade Spirit Sword he acquired from a Huang Family cultivator, along with two intermediate grade Spirit Swords, at a discounted price to his family''s Treasure Pavilion in exchange for elixirs.


    His divine sense wasn''t strong enough to support him in activating multiple Snake Vine Flowers while also wielding two superior grade Spirit Swords, and now that he was penniless again, he simply made the exchange.


    In the exchange room, Lin Houshou, upon learning that Lin Shiming and Lin Shiyi were going to spar, immediately volunteered to supervise the fight to prevent any danger at critical moments.


    The sparring between cultivators is quite perilous, especially when their strengths are close.


    Naturally, both Lin Shiming and his opponent were willing, as having an elder present could point out their ws at critical moments.


    The location chosen for their sparring was a barrennd not far from the Treasure Pavilion.


    "Second Brother, after you?" Lin Shiming extended his hand, gesturing for the other to proceed.


    "Little Seventh, I''m a straightforward man and don''t go in for all this ceremony. However, I''ll let you strike first!" said Lin Shiyi in his simple way, then pulled out an iron rod.


    This iron rod seemed dull and unremarkable on the surface, but it was actually a second rank superior grade magic artifact called the Dark Gold Profound Rod, made from therge iron staff of the Red-haired Demon Monkey from the battle in Peach Blossom Valley; its power was not to be underestimated.


    Lin Shiming inhaled deeply, no longer offering courtesy, and immediately started the incantation, releasing countless seeds of the Wood Vine Technique.


    At the same time, with his other hand, the Lotus Sword also flew out, bursting with spirit light, shing directly at Lin Shiyi.


    "Gooding!" Lin Shiyi roared withughter, his profound rod dancing with spirit light as he charged towards Lin Shiming.


    As a body cultivator, he was not well-versed in the ways of magic, his strength lying in his physical body.


    Lin Shiyi moved exceedingly fast, his rod mmed into Lin Shiming''s Lotus Sword with a thunderous noise, sending it flying.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming incanted once more, and countless vines began to surge from under the ground.


    In an instant, theypletely enveloped Lin Shiyi, but with a fierce sweep of his rod, a wave of mes emanated from the Dark Gold Profound Rod, sweeping away the vines, leaving arge empty space.


    And it was at this moment that Lin Shiming incanted again, arge Snake Vine Flower seed beginning to sprout.


    "This is exactly what I was waiting for!" Lin Shiyi bellowed, as if he had anticipated this all along, and his rod magically tripled in size.


    A fiery, massive rod smashed down on the not yet fully grown Snake Vine Flower.


    With a booming sound, the seed was crushed, and amidst an explosion of spiritual energy, there was no longer any hope for the seed to sprout.


    Having seen this move from Lin Shiming before, he naturally had given it a lot of thought and hade up with a countermeasure.


    The Snake Vine Flower wasn''t powerful at the moment of sprouting¡ªsmashing the seed was all that was needed.


    Lin Shiming, too, was taken aback. This was the first time he''d learned of this weakness of the Snake Vine Flower.


    However, he was only momentarily surprised, and not overly so, for he immediately drank some Monkey Wine, his spiritual power surging again as he sprouted another Snake Vine Flower seed.


    And right behind Lin Shiyi, a monstrous vine shot up, quickly turning into a towering tendril that wrapped around and lifted Lin Shiyi into the air, aligning a massive Snake Vine Flower seed at him.


    "Little Seventh, I admit defeat!" As soon as he was ensnared by the vines, Lin Shiyi''s fate was sealed. As a body cultivator without a leverage point, being trapped meant he had already lost the initiative, and Lin Shiming still had his Profound Water Heavy Mountain technique.


    "Second Brother is too modest!" Lin Shiming bowed with a smile, using his strength from reaching the sixth level of Qi Cultivation after his breakthrough.


    "Lose is lose, Second Brother admits defeat!" dered Lin Shiyi in his straightforward manner, but then his brows furrowed slightly.


    Staring at Lin Shiming, he said:


    "Little Seventh, Second Brother lost today, but with your strength, I''m even more relieved. However, you need to be cautious of Fourth Brother!"


    ```


    "The weakness of the Snake Vine Flower was also disclosed to me by him; he does not ept you being supported by the family with a Third Spirit Root. He believes that the most deserving of cultivation among those with a Third Spirit Root should be him!" Lin Shiyiid out all the events.


    This time, he came partly due to his love for battle, and partly to remind Lin Shiming.


    The fourth among the generation with the ''Shi'' prefix was Lin Shimo, the one who deals with corpses all day long, practicing the Corpse Training Decree.


    Lin Shiming also felt a pang in his heart. He hadn''t anticipated such an issue arising from the family''s support and resolved to be more vignt.


    "It''s fine, the ''Shi'' generation indeed needs more interaction!" Of course, Lin Shiming said this nonchntly.


    With amon enemy threatening the family, it was only right to stand united.


    At this moment, Lin Houshou, standing to the side, also began toment on the battle between the two.


    "Shiyi, after targeting Shiming''s Snake Vine Flower seed, you should have closed in on Lin Shiming quickly, not stopped where you were. As a body cultivator, you do not need to pause, nor can you afford to!"


    "Yes, thank you, Second Uncle!" Lin Shiyi also expressed his gratitude to Lin Houshou.


    Both gained from the battle, especially thetter. Lin Shiming wasn''t particrly clear about the weakness of the Snake Vine Flower himself, but now it seemed that all wood vines or seeds stimted by the Wood Vine Technique had this one weakness.


    Lin Houshou then advised Lin Shiming, pointing out the characteristics of hisbat, his strengths, and how he could improve.


    Lin Shiming humbly epted the advice and continued the exchange until the sunset.


    Only then did Lin Shiming and his brother Lin Shiyi leave the Treasure Pavilion.


    He once again set foot on the path to Qingtao Mountain.


    ...


    On Qingtao Mountain, the peach blossoms bloomed and withered, withered and bloomed.


    In the blink of an eye, two springs and autumns passed.


    The sky was clear again, the flowers bloomed resplendently.


    The peach blossoms this time were more abundant than ever before, dense and continuous, cluster after cluster.


    On the Spirit Peach Tree, a red monkey over two meters tall hopped about, crying out as it jumped, causing numerous peach blossoms to fall, nketing the ground in a carpet of pink petals.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey seemed to find the small tree boring and aimed to leap to another, muchrger peach tree.


    A golden mantis suddenly flew out, striking with its huge scythe-like forelegs.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey immediately ran toward a wooden hut, crying out.


    The hut opened, and a young man in blue stepped out. On his shoulder, a Golden Luan Eagle groomed its golden feathers with its beak.


    "Red-Haired, if you dare to wreak havoc on the Spirit Peach Tree again, prepare for a battle with Golden Wing!"


    The young man in blue was none other than Lin Shiming, who had been in rigorous cultivation for two years. During this period, he had not broken through to the seventh level of Qi Cultivation but had instead encountered a bottleneck.


    On the other hand, the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis had undergone tremendous changes, especially the Golden Winged Mantis. In terms of cultivation strength, it had reached a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast and was on the verge of breaking through to the Superior Grade.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey also recently became a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast, but its strength was much inferior to that of the Golden Wing.


    As for the Golden Luan Eagle on his shoulder, it was even further behind, a Second Rank Inferior Grade Demonic Beast, only suitable for riding and serving as a means of flight.


    Just then, a Spirit Talisman shot in, and Lin Shiming caught it in his hand.


    It was from the Lin Family''s next member in line to guard Qingtao Mountain.


    "The two-year period has ended; it''s time to return!"


    ```

 Chapter 37: Chapter 37 Huang Familys Conspiracy

    Just like Qingtao Mountain, the peach blossoms on Fangmu Mountain had bloomed as well.


    And they were even more splendidly vibrant; from a distance, one could see a sea of pink flowers around the mountainside of Fangmu Mountain, breathtakingly beautiful.


    After descending from his sword, Lin Shiming walked the familiar path once again.


    The spiritual energy on Fangmu Mountain had be even richer; just arriving at the foot of the mountain, he felt the oing spiritual energy envelop his body, providing an extremely refreshing sensation.


    Lin Shiming was still practicing the Qing Mu Art and hadn''t switched to the Purple Wood Heart Sutra. The best time to switch cultivation techniques was after Foundation Establishment, or when one had arge quantity of spiritual objects that could allow for a quick restoration of one''s cultivation level.


    Moreover, transitioning from the mid-stage to thete stage of Qi Cultivation was a barrier, and it would be more advantageous to disperse one''s cultivation and start anew after a breakthrough.


    "Shiming, you''re back?" Just as Lin Shimingnded, a voice followed closely behind him.


    It was Uncle Thirteen, holding a liquor jug.


    "Uncle Thirteen, where are you rushing off to in such a hurry?" Lin Shiming also turned around and greeted Lin Houwei.


    "Come on, let''s find the Family Head. The Huang Family has lost it, and there are even more people in the Qingyun Mountain range now!" Lin Houwei said angrily, taking a fierce swig from his jug.


    Over the past two years, the Lin Family''s profits had increased, and the Lin Family''s Demon Hunting Team spent most of their time secretly causing trouble for the Huang Family.


    Now that the Huang Family had caught on and was preparing to counter-encircle the Lin Family, how could Lin Houwei not be anxious?


    After reporting to the higher-ups, Lin Shiming followed behind.


    During his two years in Peach Blossom Valley, he had purchased Beast Nurturing Pills from the n three times and some Spirit Pills for cultivation. His Spirit Water had long been depleted, and he had drawn a considerable part of his Spirit Stone stipend in advance.


    Without securing more Spirit Stones, his cultivation pace would be severely affected.


    Raising a Spirit Beast had significant benefits and provided substantial help inbat, but the downside of resource consumption was now bing apparent.


    Beforending, Lin Houwei clearly ryed a message using a Sound Transmission Talisman.


    By the time the two reached the Council Hall, Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Houyuan, was already there.


    "Seventh brother!"


    "Father!" Lin Houwei and Lin Shiming spoke simultaneously.


    Thetter nodded slightly in acknowledgment, aware that Lin Shiming''s shift guarding was over and that it was time for him to return.


    "Seventh brother, I''vee back on my uncle''s orders to request assistance!" Before seeing Lin Houyuan, Lin Houwei had already tucked away his liquor jug and used spiritual energy to dissipate the alcohol fumes from his body.


    "Mm-hmm, I understand! I have made arrangements, a total of eight at thete stage of Qi Cultivation and twelve at the mid-stage," Lin Houyuan nodded and then added.


    "Houwei, tell your uncle that the Huang Family has kept a very low profile recently in Qingyun Market, and they might be up to something big in the Qingyun Mountain range. It''s even possible that their target isn''t us!"


    Lin Houyuan shared his spection, as over the years, the Huang Family''s modus operandi had be increasingly iprehensible.


    Especially after suffering such great losses in the Qingyun Market, they made no additional moves, starkly contrary to the Huang Family''s previous approach.


    "Father, let me go as well! I''ve encountered a bottleneck," Lin Shiming stepped forward and volunteered.


    "Alright, be very careful!" Lin Houyuan paused for a moment before ultimately nodding in agreement.


    After informing Lin Houyuan, Lin Houwei and Lin Shiming headed to the Treasure Pavilion to collect the necessary Spirit Pills, Spirit Talismans, and to rece any needed Magic Artifacts.


    Lastly, gathering a group of cultivators bearing the ''Lin Hou'' surname and under the lead of Sixth Elder Lin Houyong, they rode their swords towards the Qingyun Mountain range against the setting sun.


    ...


    On the outskirts of the Qingyun Mountain range, beside an unnamed small hill.


    Lin Houyong, Lin Shiming, and others descended from the sky, with Lin Houwei leading the way.


    "Ahead lies the formation set up by Second Brother; he''s now a Second Rank Superior Grade Array Master. We owe him a lot. Otherwise, our confrontation with the Huang Family would be at an even greater disadvantage," Lin Houwei said as he tossed out a Spirit Talisman from his hand.


    The Spirit Talisman turned into a beam of Spirit Light, which flew into the void in the blink of an eye.


    Shortly after, the illusory ground unfolded slowly like a sliced scroll.


    A cave entrance was revealed, and around a dozen cultivators d in blue robes stood before it.


    "Houyong, you''ve arrived?" The first to speak was Lin Yuqing, his body covered in blood, evidently having just engaged in battle.


    The rest were also wounded, almost without exception.


    "Uncle, what happened to you all?" Lin Houyong stepped forward to inquire.


    "We were just ambushed by several people from the Huang Family!" Lin Yuqing said furiously. Had it not been for the strength of Lin Houshou''s Second Rank Superior Grade formation, they might all have been done for in that ambush.


    Even so, the Demon Hunting Team had lost several Lin family cultivators with the surname Hou.


    "There must be something wrong with the Huang Family!" Lin Houshou, next to Lin Yuqing, had a gravely serious expression, a change from his usual demeanor.


    "They are clearly trying to stop our advance!"


    Upon hearing this, everyone reflected and realized that the Huang Family had indeed formed a massive defense line.


    If the Huang Family had sought revenge, they should have surrounded and attacked them already.


    Lin Shiming was also deep in thought. After discussions with his uncles, it became clear that the Huang Family had brought four or five Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, as well as thirty or fortyte-stage Qi Cultivators. Facing the Huang Family, their Lin Family had no chance of sess.


    It wasn''t that theycked countermeasures, but that they could not discern the Huang Family''s motives.


    Just then, a system prompt arrived.


    "Continue heading north, and you will encounter a critically injured Dire Bear, along with a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein!"


    The system''s prompt sounded, making Lin Shiming''s heart surge.


    A Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein!


    His heart instantly understood.


    The Huang Family''s goal was not their Lin Family, but a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein.


    This time, it wasn''t just a few Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators that the Huang Family had sent, but Foundation Establishment cultivators hade as well!


    And there might even be two of them!


    One of them would certainly be in Qingyun Market Square, watching over Lin Xianzhi.


    What shocked Lin Shiming the most, however, was the Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein. Knowing that his own Lin Family''s Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein had absorbed a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein and greatly improved, if the Huang Family got their hands on a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein...


    They could potentially use it to upgrade their Spirit Vein to Third Rank Superior Grade.


    The cultivators of the Huang Family were undoubtedly too lucky; the Spiritual Energy of a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein could fetch tens of thousands of Spirit Stones at an auction. Sometimes, to those in urgent need of upgrading their veins, it could even sell for over a million Spirit Stones.


    The most crucial point was that the upgrade of a Spirit Vein would cause a tide of Spiritual Energy.


    The abundant pure Spiritual Energy produced by the tide could greatly aid in the breakthrough of realms. Upgrading from Third Rank Intermediate Grade to Third Rank Superior Grade could even improve the chances of a cultivator''s Foundation Establishment.


    Lin Shiming dared not think about the consequences if the Huang Family seeded.


    But he knew he had to inform the Lin Family, especially the Family Head!

 Chapter 38: Chapter 38: A Desperate Situation

    The Qingyun mountain range is vast, a stretch of green as far as the eye can see, paired with an endless forest and one peak after another.


    But as to how vast it really is, no one knows for sure.


    All that is known is that the demonic beasts of Qingyun mountain range cannot bepletely eradicated.


    There are rumors that even Golden Core Demon Kings reside deep within the range, deterring anyone from daring to measure its full extent.


    Lin Shiming gazed toward the north; he knew that was where the Huang Family was attacking the Earth Rampage Bears, aiming to take over an inferior grade third rank Spirit Vein.


    Beside his ear, the Great Elder and the others were still plotting how to capture a cultivator from the Huang Family to perform a soul search.


    But Lin Shiming was aware the Huang Family wouldn''t give them the opportunity.


    Unless the old Family Head came over, with his peak middle stage Foundation Establishment strength, then it might be possible.


    Suddenly, Lin Shiming remembered he had a Golden Luan Eagle spirit beast.


    Even though the Golden Luan Eagle was not yet mature, merely a second rank inferior grade demonic beast, its flight was entirely unimpaired, and the Huang Family at present would not concern themselves with a bird flying high in the sky.


    Most importantly, he just needed to put on a show for the elders of the Lin Family.


    "Great-grandfather, I have a Golden Luan Eagle spirit beast that''s extremely sensitive and has excellent vision, surely it can help us probe the strength and weakness of the Huang Family?" Lin Shiming had an idea and stepped forward to suggest to Lin Yuqing.


    He then released the Golden Luan Eagle from the Spirit Beast Bag.


    At once, the Red-haired Demon Monkey also in the Spirit Beast Bag began to show signs of excitement, clearly wanting toe out for some air, but Lin Shiming sternly warned it with his divine sense.


    "Shiming, you''ve also raised a Golden Luan Eagle? I thought you only had a mantis spirit pet," Lin Yuqing said with some surprise as he examined the eagle.


    A cultivator flying on a sword, or traversing overnd, could be detected by the divine sense of other immortal cultivators and subsequently attacked.


    However, a Golden Luan Eagle flying high in the sky would not catch the attention of the Huang Family.


    Besides, it is known that the high skies over the Qingyun mountain range are the domain of demonic birds, and there may even be Great Demons from the Purple Mansion up there.


    Cultivators from the Huang Family wouldn''t go out of their way to fly high into the sky to kill an insignificant second rank inferior grade demonic beast.


    "It was the Seventh Great-Uncle who bought it for me!" Lin Shiming stroked the head of the Golden Luan Eagle while smiling in response.


    Then he took out a Jade Bottle, gave the Golden Luan Eagle a sip of Spirit Water, and with a pat on its wings, let the eagle spread its wings and rise with a loud call.


    With a Spirit Contract in ce, Lin Shiming could simply order the Golden Luan Eagle to fly high into the sky, then toward the north.


    The Golden Luan Eagle flew higher and higher until it vanished into the clouds.


    The Golden Luan Eagle had disappeared, but Lin Shiming''s heart was still not at ease. However, there was no other method at the moment,


    After about a quarter of an hour, while everyone anxiously waited, a streak of golden light broke through the clouds, revealing a golden eagle''s head that swooped down.


    Itnded on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, calling out "gua gua gua" as it perched.


    Lin Shiming took out a bottle of Spirit Water for the Golden Luan Eagle to drink.


    Then, with a look of urgency, he said,


    "Great-grandfather, there''s trouble. The Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Huang Family are present, and they''re in the midst of securing a ce where the spiritual energy is extremely dense!"


    "Moreover, ording to the spiritual fluctuations transmitted by the Golden Luan Eagle, the concentration of spiritual energy is not much less than that of Fangmu Mountain!"


    Lin Shiming''sst statement deeply shocked the Great Elder and the Sixth Elder.


    Although Lin Shiming was being vague, they instantly thought of the Spirit Vein and realized that the Huang Family had been nning to find a wild Spirit Vein for a Spirit Vein upgrade.


    This matter must have started years ago, otherwise why would they have also found Peach Blossom Valley back then, and as expected, brought along two Foundation Establishment Cultivators?


    When the Lin Family members considered this, they felt an overwhelming sense of fear.


    It was clear that the Huang Family was in a hurry because the Spirit Vein was about to be upgraded!


    "Houyong, you are the fastest, you must immediately fly at full speed to Qingyun Market, and you must tell the Seventh Great-Uncle that he muste here as soon as possible!" Lin Yuqing, not daring to dy at all, finished speaking and took out a Second Rank Superior Grade Fengxing Charm from his Storage Bag.


    This Fengxing Charm could increase a Cultivator''s speed of escape, and in critical moments, save a life.


    But at this moment, they could no longer afford to stay; if they allowed the Huang Family to snatch the Spirit Vein first, it would be toote for everything.


    Lin Houyong didn''t hesitate, immediately pressed the Fengxing Charm, and it turned into a beam of Spirit Light blessing him. He rose again on his Sword Flight, feeling as if he was riding the wind, and in the blink of an eye, vanished into the sky.


    "Shiming, can you get your Golden Luan Eagle to scout and find the exact location of the Huang Family? We can''t just sit and wait for death!" Lin Yuqing then turned to look at Lin Shiming.


    "By that time, when Seventh Great-Uncle arrives, we can catch them all in one fell swoop!" After saying that, Lin Yuqing''s face also shed a hint of ruthlessness.


    As for the ambush that caused death and injury, Lin Yuqing naturally wanted to repay it a hundredfold.


    "Great Grandfather, if the Huang Family hasn''t used any Formations or hidden Spirit Talismans, then it''s possible!" Lin Shiming nodded. The Golden Luan Eagle''s scouting abilities were still dependable, but if the area was covered by a Formation, then indeed they would not be able to find it.


    The Golden Luan Eagle once again took flight with a squawk, heading towards the dense forests and hills in front.


    ...


    In a dense jungle, a Silver-horned Long Deer was leisurely strolling, asionally sniffing the air and rotating its bright, lively eyes.


    "Shhh!" Suddenly, the sound of something piercing the air came through.


    The Silver-horned Long Deer hadn''t even had time to react when a shiny Spirit Sword passed right through it!


    The deer''s head flew up with the noise, scattering a wide spray of blood.


    Under the tree, a surge of Spiritual Energy fluctuated, and then several middle-aged men in yellow robes emerged from underneath the tree, collecting the deer''s head.


    The one leading them was a somewhat plump middle-aged man, and if Lin Shiming and the others were here, they would have recognized him as Huang Lishan, the current Family Head of the Huang Family.


    Huang Lishan did not pay attention to the corpse of the Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast, the Silver-horned Long Deer, but instead looked up into the void, a trace of puzzlement flickering in his eyes.


    "Ligong, you said that eagle has appeared and gone back and forth twice now, and the Lin Family is also over there..."


    After hearing this, an elderly Taoist Robe Cultivator with white whiskers pinched his beard and furrowed his brows.


    The white-bearded Taoist Robe old man was named Huang Ligong, the ninth eldest of the Huang Family''s generation, younger than Huang Lishan by several years, but more inclined to preserve his natural age.


    "Third Brother, the Lin Family has never raised a Golden Luan Eagle, but I feel something is not right; the Lin Family''s calm is too abnormal!"


    "Third Brother, Ninth Brother, why hesitate any longer? We still have a Purple Mansion talisman treasure; let''s just annihte those few from the Lin Family!" The dark-faced Cultivator beside them was already irritated.


    Seeing that the others from the Huang Family were all contemting the Golden Luan Eagle, he spoke directly.


    In his view, the Lin Family was only relying on the name of Zi Xuan Hermit from the Qingxuan Sect, but in this uninhabited ce, even if they were to ughter all the Cultivators of the Lin Family, no one would ever know.


    The gap in strength was too vast.


    "Let''s deal with them! Indeed something doesn''t feel right!" Huang Lishan extended his leg, stepping on the body of the Silver-horned Long Deer, and with a violent force, the deer''s body burst open, the flesh and blood flying in all directions.


    "Six Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and one talisman treasure, their death is certain!"

 Chapter 39: Chapter 39: Crazy Drinking

    At the outskirts of the Qingyun Mountain range, a Golden Luan Eagle slowly descended from the sky,nding on Lin Shiming''s shoulder.


    The attention of all the Lin Family members instantly focused on Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Water and ced it next to the Golden Luan Eagle''s hooked beak.


    After a fluctuation of divine sense, Lin Shiming shook his head at the Great Elder and the others.


    Although the Lin Family members had braced themselves, they were still somewhat disappointed.


    Suddenly, Lin Houshou''s brows furrowed tightly.


    He stared ahead, then quickly turned to check behind them!


    Then he looked left and right!


    "All the early warning formations around us have been triggered, activate the formation immediately, form up!" Lin Houshou''s hands disyed several array gs, and he started to rapidly form hand seals.


    The others reacted in an instant, grabbing their magic artifacts, watching their surroundings with vignce.


    All of them expanded their divine sense.


    The first to detect the Huang Family''s cultivators was the Great Elder; as an experienced Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator, his range of divine sense was the broadest.


    "There are Huang Family cultivators to the north!"


    "They are in the east, and west as well!"


    ...


    A bad feeling surged in the hearts of all the Lin Family cultivators.


    "Six Qi Cultivation Ninth Levels!" Under the solemn gaze of the Great Elder Lin Yuqing, a trace of helplessness emerged.


    As the head of the Great Elder and the Demon Hunting Team, he knew they had been careless and too eager for sess.


    "Uncle, we can''t give up. Relying on the formation, we still have a chance. This set of Five Directions Profound Earth Array tes can block three Qi Cultivation Ninth Levels without a problem!" Lin Houshou shouted loudly, his spiritual energy bursting forth.


    In an instant, he disyed a level of cultivation that far surpassed the Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    "Hou Shou, you''ve reached Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, good!" Lin Yuqing roared with approval, his spirit sweeping away the gloom!


    If the younger generation could do this, how could he, a senior, show any cowardice?


    Lin Houshou did not reply. With a cold shout, the earth and rocks around him tumbled, and beams of immense spirit light rose around them. A golden yellow barrier enveloped everyone.


    The Five Directions Profound Earth Formation wasplete!


    Outside the formation, a burly man with a darkplexion arrived first on a Flying Sword.


    "Do you Lin family only know how to hide like turtles?"


    As he flew in, a giant hammer appeared in his hands. With the infusion of spiritual energy, it instantly transformed into a mountainous ck hammer that he smashed fiercely toward the Lin Family members.


    ng!


    A loud noise echoed as the earthen barrier of the Five Directions Profound Earth Formation violently shook.


    Huang Lishan and Huang Ligong quickly surrounded them as well.


    A grand force of over thirty people, among which six were Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, twenty werete-stage Qi Cultivators, and the remaining dozen were at the Sixth Level.


    A cloud of darkness filled the hearts of the Lin Family members. Thetter stage of Qi Cultivation was still manageable, but the gulf with the Ninth Level cultivators was too wide.


    Even though Lin Houshou had broken through to Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and was a second-rank superior grade array master, he could at most hold off three who were just entering the Ninth Level. The Great Elder, being a body cultivator, was more easily countered and would do well to stall two at the Ninth Level.


    "Shiming, if we can''t resistter, I will cover your retreat!" Lin Shiming had already been continuously throwing seeds and drinking Monkey Wine.


    Lin Yuqing''s voice transmission entered Lin Shiming''s mind, and he understood that he had once again be the person his family needed to protect.


    Of course, Lin Shijie, the eldest of the Lin Family''s generation with the character "Shi" in their names, had also received [the summons].


    "Great-grandfather, Second Uncle, I can hold off a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level!" And just at this moment, Lin Shijie suddenly shook his head and spoke, as a second-rank supreme grade sword radiated a resplendent glow of spiritual energy from his hand.


    Beside him, the always silent Lin Shiming also unexpectedly spoke out:


    "My Blood Corpse can also help!" He said as he took out a blood-red coffin from his storage bag, solemnly biting his finger and letting essence blood drip onto it.


    He formed hand seals and pressed down!


    Ghostly, eerie winds started to blow as the red coffin was violently sted away!


    A blood-red, ghastly corpse suddenly stood up, its long and sharp ws gleaming coldly,plemented by its fearsome fangs and turbid blood-red eyes, causing the Lin Family members to involuntarily retreat.


    It was at this time that people realized Lin Shiming had already reached the seventh level of Qi Cultivation.


    "Good! Shijie, Shiming, with you two, the Lin Family is truly fortunate!" The Great Elderughed heartily, and in an instant, his spiritual power surged, his body seemingly expanding in size.


    "Lishan, you old fatty, Ligong, you old slickster, today this old man will let you see who truly is the number one in Body Cultivation amongst Qi Cultivators!" The Great Elder charged out fiercely, heading straight towards Huang Lishan and Huang Ligong.


    In that instant, Lin Houshou also activated his Five Elements Profound Earth, the light shield disappeared, and it transformed directly into a massive Five Elements Profound Mountain, crushing down hard on the three Qi Cultivation Ninth Level members of the Huang Family.


    Although the Five Elements Profound Earth was capable of defense, its forte was still offense!


    With the light shield gone, Lin Shijie and the Blood Corpse charged towards thest Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator of the Huang Family.


    "Hmph, Lin Family brat, not even fully fledged, and yet you dare to insult me!" The remaining Ninth Level cultivator of the Huang Family was also furious, waving his hand a Five Elements g appeared.


    With a wave of the g, various Five Elements Spells continuously flew out, bombarding both Lin Shijie and the Blood Corpse.


    Unending mes endlessly roasted the Blood Corpse!


    The Blood Corpse was clearly being suppressed by the mes, cackling and roaring in rage.


    Lin Shiming hurriedly took out several ordinary corpse cultivators and reached towards the Ninth Level cultivator of the Huang Family.


    "Damn it, if only I had more resources, my Blood Corpse could reach the peak of the second rank, impervious to fire and water, invulnerable to swords and spears! How would a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level be of any concern?"


    Lin Shiming felt somewhat unwilling.


    This feeling of unwillingness, when heard by the Lin Family members, made many cultivators instantly consider how Lin Shiming had be the supported member of the family due to his opportunities and merits.


    No one responded to Lin Shiming, but the increasingly ferocious fist techniques of the Great Elder, with his pair of supreme grade boxing gloves, sent countless spiritual artifacts flying.


    A set of the Thick Earth Fist Manual resulted in the slight suppression of both Huang Lishan and Huang Ligong.


    The scene turned chaotic for a moment as the Huang Family members faced off against the Lin Family members.


    Generally speaking, the cultivation level of the Huang Family members was higher, but the Lin Family also had an advantage, being inheritors of the Purple Mansion''s cultivation techniques, which were slightly stronger.


    But they could only barely hold back, and it seemed like defeat was already decided.


    Especially a few cultivators at the fifth and sixth levels of Qi Cultivation, who were already decapitated.


    Lin Shiming was still there drinking Monkey Wine, and everyone felt that Lin Shiming had gone mad. With a great battle approaching, continuing to guzzle down wine, was this self-abandonment?


    But the Huang Family had an inkling that something was not right¡ªafter all, this was a descendant of Lin Houyuan.


    A Qi Cultivation Eighth Level cultivator suddenly unleashed a huge Fireball Technique, sting away a Seventh Level cultivator from the Lin Family, and a giant magic sword shed towards Lin Shiming.


    But just then, a red-haired figure unexpectedly appeared in front of everyone, holding up a Profound Water Heavy Mountain and violently throwing it at the magic sword.


    With a loud boom, the magic sword was smashed apart, and the Profound Water Heavy Mountain rumbled as it flew back.


    The red-haired figure was familiar to the crowd, but why would this red-haired figure be holding Lin Shiming''s Profound Water Heavy Mountain, and why would they block this strike for Lin Shiming?


    At this moment, Lin Shiming finally stopped.


    He suddenly lifted his head, his face flushing extremely red, like an inted balloon, his eyes filled with madness.

 Chapter 40: Chapter 40 Only One Sword to Enjoy Together

    ```


    The verdant hillsides had nowpletely fallen into a hellishndscape.


    Blood flowed like rivers in the trenches carved by various spells, as the blue-robed cultivators still could not ovee, and the yellow-robed cultivators relentlessly struck sword after sword with fierce grimaces.


    Even at Lin Houshou''s position, the Five Directions Profound Earth Formation was starting to falter, as Huang Family had a Third Rank Artifact Refiner, making the magical treasures of the three Huang Family elders exceptionally powerful.


    Although Lin Houshou also had some, he had only just stepped into the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, and if it weren''t for the constant consumption of Monkey Wine to restore his Spiritual Energy, his defenses might have already been breached.


    But he couldn''t hold on much longer!


    The only scene that seemed to fare the best was with Lin Yuqing. As a practitioner of Body Cultivation, bolstered by the Monkey Wine, he was surprisingly pressuring both Huang Lishan and another of the Huang Family with his abundant Spiritual Power.


    At that moment, Lin Houshou''s gaze happened to catch sight of Lin Shiming, whose face was flushed red with crazed eyes.


    Of course, it wasn''t just Lin Houshou who noticed; everyone''s gaze couldn''t help but turn towards Lin Shiming.


    They saw thetter suddenly shout, and a ck Lotus Sword instantly grew several meters, its de emanating a thick light.


    "You old cowards of the Huang Family! Even though I, Lin Shiming, am only at Qi Cultivation Sixth Level and no match for you,"


    "I have but one sword strike, please appreciate it together!"


    Lin Shiming roared as he spoke, and one could see a violent surge of Spiritual Energy pour into the Green Lotus Sword, making the sword light re up again!


    Could it be that he hasprehended Lin Xianzhi''s sword technique?


    Some of the Huang Family felt a cold fear, for Lin Xianzhi''s swordsmanship was always so terrifying!


    But most scoffed, a mere Qi Cultivation Sixth Level; who could he intimidate?


    The sword light was unleashed, and Lin Shiming struck at the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level cultivator who had attacked him.


    Which was easily blocked by thetter.


    "All sh and no substance!"


    That was the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level cultivator''s assessment of Lin Shiming.


    But soon, he sensed something amiss; the Spiritual Energy from Lin Shiming''s recent attack was far from all he had.


    Even under his watch, Lin Shiming''s body slowly fell to the ground.


    How could this be?


    Everyone was surprised and puzzled. Was that all from his full-strength sword strike?


    Was this the one the Lin Family had invested so much support in?


    The few from the Huang Family who had been paying attention to Lin Shiming now thoroughly disregarded him.


    They were unaware that the Spiritual Power Lin Shiming had previously unleashed had not all gone into the Spirit Sword.


    However, in the next moment, everyone only heard a loud boom!


    Five sounds of air being torn apart rang out, dirt and rocks flying everywhere, and massive vines appearing out of nowhere.


    In the blink of an eye, they stretched up like five pirs extending to the heavens.


    Among them, two Snake Vine Flowers crucially wrapped around Huang Lishan and Huang Ligong in a fierce encirclement!


    Three more Snake Vine Flowers, like the scythe of death, bound the three Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators within the Five Directions Profound Earth Formation!


    Most critically, the Snake Vine Flowers wereced with poisonous thorns. The thorns and the huge toxicity of the Snake Vine Flower during normal times wouldn''t pose an issue, but in the heat of battle at the peak of Qi Cultivation, being entangled for even a moment by the poison could be fatal!


    The venom of the Snake Vine Flowers also began to pour forth, eroding the shields of Spiritual Power and the Defense Talismans in an instant.


    "What an opportunity!" Lin Yuqing''s eyes shone with brilliance upon seeing this; he had not expected Lin Shiming to create such a grand opportunity.


    A pill entered his body from his hand, a Third Rank Elixir, the Frenzy Pill!


    It would temporarily boost Spiritual Energy, speed, and strength!


    ```


    The Supreme Grade boxing gloves emitted an earth attribute glow as grand as a mountain, and with one punch, Huang Ligong was smashed to pieces.


    With a booming sound, thetter was smashed into a mush under the force of the punch, leaving behind only a Storage Bag and a Spirit Sword that had dimmed significantly...


    Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, Huang Ligong, fallen!


    Huang Lishan''s face was filled with utter shock; he hadn''t expected to be deceived by a greenhorn at this moment.


    The bluff of a sword, they could only me their excessive fear of Lin Xianzhi''s swordsmanship!


    Almost at the same time that Lin Yuqing crushed Huang Ligong to death, Lin Houshou suddenly and violently detonated the formation.


    The Wuxiang Earth Formation was an exceptionally formidable second-rank Superior Grade formation, which erupted with a deafening boom.


    The dazzling earthy yellow brilliance exploded like a volcanic eruption.


    Lin Houshou, stumbling, controlled his Flying Sword to escape, while three of the Huang Family''s Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators were blown to bits and perished!


    In just a few breaths, due to Lin Shiming''s Snake Vine Flower, four Qi Cultivation Ninth Levelbatants had died!


    And Huang Lishan was likewise in imminent danger; consumed by the Frenzy Pill, Lin Yuqing even faintly possessed thebat strength of someone at the Foundation Establishment level.


    Should this punchnd, Huang Lishan would either die or sustain grave injuries.


    At the critical juncture, Huang Lishan took a deep breath, drew a Supreme Grade magical sword to sever the Snake Vine Flower monstrously, and then surprisingly unfolded a Third Rank Inferior Grade Defense Talisman.


    He pulled out a half-meter-long peculiar Spirit Talisman, whose surface was not inscribed with Spirit Patterns, but rather a small sword engulfed in purple qi.


    His mouth moved as if whispering an incantation, and the small sword on the Spirit Talisman became steadily clearer.


    The Spiritual Pressure grew more and more intense.


    "Talisman Sword!" Everyone from the Lin Family was shocked.


    Especially Lin Yuqing, who hastily yelled out!


    "Don''t let him activate it!"


    The power of the Talisman Sword was equivalent to a strike from a Purple Mansion magical treasure, although it was only being activated by a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator, its power was absolutely terrifying.


    The only weakness of such a Talisman Sword was the long activation time, and extended incantation period.


    His Iron Fist struck the Defense Talisman numerous times, but a Third Rank talisman wasn''t so easily broken.


    As Lin Houshou took a big gulp of Monkey Wine to restore some Spiritual Power and alleviate some injuries, he saw this and charged at Huang Lishan once more.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shijie and the Blood Corpse didn''t know how many times they''d been sted away by the Five Elements g.


    This time, Lin Shijie was once again sent flying backward, and the Blood Corpse''s arms were blown off by the mes.


    "You two brats, I''lle back to kill youter!" The Huang Family''s Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator roared with fury. Four Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators had died; even if they killed all of the Lin Family, it would be a loss for the Huang Family, not to mention that with their Qi Cultivation peak cultivators falling, the Huang Family was on the brink of being entirely annihted.


    The situation had already far exceeded the Huang Family''s expectations, but to survive, to win, they had to ensure that Huang Lishan activated the Talisman Sword.


    The Huang Family''s remaining Ninth Level cultivators directly intercepted Lin Houshou; without the assistance of the formation and also injured, Lin Houshou simply couldn''t hold off the Huang Family''s cultivators.


    Especially with the Five Elements Spell released by the Five Elements gs, Lin Houshou was forced into a continuous retreat.


    The Talisman Sword in Huang Lishan''s hand grew brighter and brighter, while Lin Yuqing had failed to shatter the Third Rank Inferior Grade Defense Talisman from the start to the finish.


    Lin Yuqing''s eyes were already bloodshot, the power of the Frenzy Pill was eroding his nerves, and the fear of death loomed over his head.


    No one could withstand the strike from this Talisman Sword.


    At that moment, he transmitted a message to Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie once more.


    "Go!" With Huang Lishan''s cold shout, a golden, dazzling Purple Flying Sword had already taken shape, and the terrifying Spiritual Pressure pressed down on everyone, making it hard to breathe.


    "Lin Yuqing, it''s all over!" Huang Lishan snarled, swinging his hand forcefully, as the sword shed towards Lin Yuqing.

 Chapter 41: Chapter 41: Ownership of the Talisman Treasure

    The Spirit Talisman transformed into a towering sword light dozens of feet long, carrying infinite sword might, cleaving down in a sh.


    In haste, Lin Yuqing threw out several Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Talismans to block, and also controlled a Superior Grade defensive Magic Artifact for defense.


    However, the sword light still tore through everything in its path, rampaging towards Lin Yuqing.


    Unmatched, unstoppable!


    It was truly a sword that broke all magic!


    Just at this moment, an even more dazzling sword light came piercing down from the sky.


    Thattter light zed with green luminescence, streaking a sword light ten meters long, fiercely stabbing into the purple sword light.


    A sharp and piercing sound of swords shing erupted, spreading the brilliant spirit light far and wide.


    The residual force of the light directly flipped Lin Yuqing over a hundred meters away, spewing a gush of scarlet blood three to four meters away.


    "Lin Xianzhi, howe you are here?" Huang Lishan''s face was filled with disbelief.


    At this moment, Lin Xianzhi should have been at the Qingyun market attending a trade meeting for Foundation Establishment Cultivators with the elderly head of their Huang Family.


    In the sky, a Spirit Boat slowly descended, with Lin Houyong on board, recovering his Spiritual Energy.


    At the forefront of the Spirit Boat, stood a figure in white with green robes, upright like a pine, with the green Qinglian Sword floating high above, poised like a ravenous beast ready to strike.


    Lin Xianzhi did not answer.


    But it was theck of an answer that made Huang Lishan even more infuriated and deste.


    Without establishing the foundation, one is merely an ant!


    What does it matter if he is the Family Head of the Huang Family?


    What does it matter if he has Spirit Talismans, unbeatable in Qi Cultivation!


    In the end, he is still just in Qi Cultivation, still just an ant!


    No one will save him, the Lin Family will not spare him either.


    The scene was filled with despair, not just for Huang Lishan, but for the other members of the Huang Family as well.


    In contrast, the remaining Cultivators of the Lin Family were buoyed with high spirits, attacking with all their might!


    With a flick of his finger, Lin Xianzhi unleashed the Qinglian Sword. Huang Lishan''s Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Talismans instantly shattered, dissipating into spirit light.


    And with them, Huang Lishan''s head was severed as well.


    Nearly a hundred years of Immortal Cultivation vanished in an instant.


    The remaining Cultivators of the Huang Family began to flee, but how could they escape?


    Lin Shimingy on the ground, feeling as though every meridian in his body had been emptied and his Divine Sense exhausted, his head heavy and muddled.


    The five highly poisonous Snake Vine Flowers had far exceeded his limit of Divine Sense, and his meridians were severed in many ces due to overexertion from using Monkey Wine.


    Thankfully, it was the Monkey Wine that had the power to heal and restore Spiritual Energy, otherwise he might have died on the spot from forcefully activating so many Snake Vine Flowers and being drained in an instant.


    He longed to sleep, but he couldn''t until the very end.


    Now, with the arrival of Seventh Great-Uncle Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming felt a bit more at ease.


    However, just at that moment, a Qi Cultivator from the Huang Family at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, seeing that things were hopeless and that there was no chance of escape, charged directly towards Lin Shiming, intent on taking him down with him!


    If it hadn''t been for Lin Shiming, the Huang Family would have certainly held the advantage and wouldn''t have allowed time for Lin Xianzhi to arrive.


    "How dare you!" Lin Xianzhi was the first to notice, immediately erupting in fury!


    He drew his sword and made a furious sh, all in one breath!


    But he was too far from Lin Shiming, and the Huang Family Cultivator was too close to Lin Shiming.


    The short distance of several hundred meters suddenly became an insurmountable gap; who would have thought that the Huang Family Cultivator could be so treacherous as to feign flight only to turn instantly towards Lin Shiming?


    The sword of a Foundation Establishment Cultivator was indeed fast, but at this moment, the Huang Family Cultivator wasn''t seeking to live but was ready to trade his life for another''s.


    A sh of sword light shot out, and Lin Shiming even saw the sinister face of the yellow-robed Cultivator, but he couldn''t rise to defend himself, not even move a finger.


    And just at that moment, a red-haired figure appeared once more in front of Lin Shiming.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey raised both its arms, supporting a small mountain shrouded in profound light.


    It was the Profound Water Heavy Mountain. The demon monkey let out an angry roar and threw the mountain once more with all its strength.


    Boom!


    The mountain smashed into the sword light, and the terrifying force of gravity directly knocked the sword off course.


    Meanwhile, the face of the yellow-robed cultivator twisted with ferocity, turning into shock, then into hatred. He couldn''t understand how a monkey could throw a Superior Grade magic artifact!


    A streak of green sword light shot forth, ending the cultivator''s life.


    Lin Shiming took big breaths of air, while the Red-haired Demon Monkey ran up to him, yapping as if to boast about its achievement. Seeing no response from Lin Shiming,


    it then ran off again, retrieving the Profound Water Heavy Mountain and a Second Rank Superior Grade magic sword, tossing the sword at Lin Shiming''s feet.


    As for the Profound Water Heavy Mountain, the Red-haired Demon Monkey continued to toy with it in its hands.


    It seemed to imply, "The Profound Water Heavy Mountain is mine, the sword is for you, as a trade!"


    Lin Shiming watched the demon monkey ying delightedly, really wanting to go up and stroke its red furry head.


    Yet he found that his hand still couldn''t move.


    Lin Xianzhi came over, feeding Lin Shiming a mouthful of Monkey Wine. A warm surge of Spiritual Power emerged within his body, continuously healing his meridians.


    In addition, Lin Xianzhi took out a green lotus seed and ced it in Lin Shiming''s mouth.


    Lin Shiming had never tasted the Green Lotus Pool''s lotus seeds before, but he knew they also had a healing effect,plementing the Monkey Wine perfectly.


    "Well done!" Lin Xianzhi praised Lin Shiming, then he started to clean up the battlefield with Lin Houqing and others.


    They collected all the Storage Bags, and used the Fireball Technique to burn the bodies of the Huang Family cultivators one by one.


    Especially the magic talismans, which still had some power left, were carefully collected by Lin Xianzhi. Even Foundation Establishment cultivators would be envious of these Purple Mansion talismans.


    And only Foundation Establishment cultivators have enough Spiritual Power to fully activate the talismans'' potential.


    If Qi Cultivators were to activate the talismans, the power would be that of a Third Rank Inferior Grade. But for Foundation Establishment cultivators, it could even reach a Third Rank Superior Grade.


    Nevertheless, talismans ultimately have a w, which is the need for a long time to form the hand seals. In a battle between cultivators, without sufficient defensive measures, using talismans is undoubtedly suicidal.


    "Shiming!" When Lin Shiming was admiring the talisman.


    A Storage Bag was tossed in front of Lin Shiming by Lin Xianzhi, upon thetter''s confirming nod.


    Lin Shiming picked up the Storage Bag, barely believing it. With a bit of Divine Sense that had just recovered, he probed into the Storage Bag.


    A half-meter-long Spirit Talisman was indeed inside the bag.


    The Purple Spirit Sword appeared dimmer than before, but undeniably, it was the talisman that even Foundation Establishment cultivators coveted.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, this..." Lin Shiming still couldn''t believe it.


    But he saw thetter smiling in response, "Would the family ever cold the heart of someone who has contributed?"


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming was instantly overjoyed.


    The value of talismans varies greatly, ranging from ten thousand to several hundred thousand Spirit Stones. This Purple Mansion Purple Sword talisman, while not the top-notch, was still worth at least tens of thousands of Spirit Stones. Used at a critical moment, it could even severely injure a Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    It was truly an ace up one''s sleeve!


    "Heal up well!" Lin Xianzhi instructed.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein..."


    "You all heal first. If the Spirit Vein is not meant to be ours, what harm is there in letting them take it?" Lin Xianzhi shook his head and then went off to other ces, continuing to bestow rewards and tend to the healing of other cultivators.


    In total, they acquired six Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators'' Storage Bags and more than twenty fromte-stage Qi Cultivators.


    Due to his key contributions, Lin Shiming was allocated the Storage Bag of a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator and one from an Eighth Level cultivator.


    Apart from Lin Shiming, Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming each gained a Storage Bag from a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator and an Eighth Level cultivator.


    None of the cultivators from the younger "Hou" and "Yu" generations of the Lin Family voiced any objections, for they were deserving.


    At the same time, they knew that they were witnessing the rise of the "Shi" generation¡­

 Chapter 42: Chapter 42: Not that there is no retribution, its just not the time yet

    In a hastily excavated cave dwelling, Lin Shiming slowly awoke from his cultivation.


    The sustained and endless power of the Qing Mu Art was immensely effective in healing and recovery, and had he been cultivating a Fire-Element Technique, he would have undoubtedly experienced excruciating pain throughout his meridians.


    Of course, the Second Rank Superior Grade Monkey Wine and the seeds of the Green Lotus also yed a significant role.


    Otherwise, it would have taken Lin Shiming at least several days to stabilize.


    "Shiming, how are you feeling, any better?"


    Sitting in meditation nearby, Lin Houwei and others from the Lin Family all looked over, the one who asked was Fifth Uncle Lin Houyong.


    Lin Shiming scanned the area; most of the Lin Family were present in the temporary cave. Deeper within, and with his Divine Sense, he detected Lin Yuqing and Lin Houshou both healing. They were the ones under the greatest pressure earlier.


    Seeing Lin Shiming awake, many with minor injuries now turned their gaze towards him.


    His gaze had changed from that of the past; in their eyes, Lin Shiming saw a hint of concern and respect.


    If it hadn''t been for Lin Shiming''sst self-sacrificing act to trigger the Snake Vine Flower, it was possible that all the Lin Family members would have been annihted.


    At this moment, no one doubted Lin Shiming''s status as a key member supported by the family!


    Even Lin Shimo, when looking at Lin Shiming, appeared to regard him with the same respect as he did Lin Shijie, evidently cing Lin Shiming on an equal footing.


    "Thank you for your concern, Uncle Five. This time, we were lucky you arrived when you did, or the oue is unthinkable!" Lin Shiming said gratefully, remembering that if they had been just a momentter, he had no doubt that the Purple Mansion talisman could have killed many of the Lin Family.


    "It was you who made a great contribution, far greater than what Fifth Uncle did!" Lin Houshou also praised, then appeared to recall something and spoke,


    "Seventh Great-Uncle wants to see you, go inside for a moment!" Lin Shiming nodded, slowly stood up, but realized his body still ached. He couldn''t help but think, perhaps he should find a Body Refining Art to cultivate.


    However, remembering that with his Third Spirit Root it was uncertain how long he would take to reach Foundation Establishment, he immediately gave up the idea.


    Approaching the depths of the cave dwelling, there were two entrances blocked by stones, and next to one of therge stones, Lin Xianzhi sat in meditation just like the first time Lin Shiming saw him.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming bowed and saluted.


    Lin Xianzhi opened his eyes and looked at Lin Shiming, examining him up and down and asked,


    "How are your injuries?"


    "Thank you for your concern, Seventh Great-Uncle. My injuries are just an overextension of Spiritual Energy, not worth mentioning!" Lin Shiming casually replied, then his eyes unintentionally swept towards the two cave entrances.


    In Lin Shiming''s mind, the one with the severest injuries was definitely the Second Uncle who had destroyed the Five Elements Formation.


    Now that was a true powerhouse!


    The Grand Elders lived up to their name as body culturists, but their injuries must have been extremely serious as well.


    Lin Xianzhi, seeing where Lin Shiming''s gaze fell, and then ncing back towards the two cave entrances, understood that Shiming was concerned about the two elders; his appreciation for Shiming deepened. He then spoke again,


    "They have taken the Green Lotus seeds and Monkey Wine as well, and should recover after several months of rest."


    "Since you are not seriously hurt,e with meter, we need to look for the people from the Huang Family!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming felt inwardly speechless.


    From the tone of voice, it seemed that Seventh Great-Uncle might have already searched but failed to find the Huang Family and the location of the Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein.


    After all, even though the system hinted at a Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein being to the north, it did not specify how far north.


    And his Golden Luan Bird had simply flown a circle before returning.


    A quarter of an hour,bined with the flying speed of the Golden Luan Bird, he feared they had flown quite a distance; his Seventh Great-Uncle must have had a sense of this.


    "I shall heed the instructions of Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming agreed readily.


    Even in his heart, he began to devise excuses, but unexpectedly, Lin Xianzhi did not press him further.


    After instructing Lin Houwei and the others to protect Lin Yuqing and Lin Houshou here, Lin Xianzhi prepared to set off with Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong.


    To Lin Shiming''s surprise, Lin Shijie and Lin Shimo both voluntarily requested to apany them.


    Lin Shiming could understand Lin Shijie, who was at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, but Lin Shimo left him somewhat perplexed.


    Thetter''s strengthy entirely in training corpses, but his blood corpse had its arms explosively obliterated.


    The whereabouts of that formidable Five Elements g were also unknown.


    But clearly, the decision wasn''t up to him; with a nod from Lin Xianzhi, everyone boarded Lin Xianzhi''s Spirit Boat.


    However, the Spirit Boat did not increase in size to over a hundred meters but rather remained like a t boat two or three meters long, which was incredibly magical.


    The advantage of this was clear too; in the Qingyun Mountain Range, a smaller target was less noticeable while the speed was notpromised.


    The Spirit Boat nearly skimmed over the treetops as it flew, the Golden Luan Bird squawked on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, and Lin Shiming kept giving directions.


    Heading north, the Spirit Boat''s speed was terrifyingly fast. After about five or six hours, Lin Shiming could see a small mountain from a distance, its dense spiritual energy particrly striking.


    From a closer approach, one could see around the small mountain several corpses draped in yellow robes, their manner of death exceedingly gruesome¡ªevery one of them had been horrifically pped to death with palm strikes.


    The ground was scarred with countless ravines, and arge swath of trees was demolished.


    "It''s ahead!" Lin Xianzhi''s eyes lit up, then he looked toward the remaining individuals.


    Lin Xianzhi had everyone disembark from the Spirit Boat and proceed with concealed movements.


    At this moment, from atop the hill, came the rumbling sounds of roars and the shing of swords¡ªthe battle was obviously far from over.


    Lin Xianzhi flipped his hand, taking out five Spirit Talismans from his Storage Bag, giving one to each person.


    All five were Second-Rank Superior Grade Spirit Talismans of Concealment, with excellent effects in shielding one''s Divine Sense. Of course, for Foundation Establishment Cultivators using their Divine Sense at full strength to probe, the effect would be much diminished.


    But at this moment, the Huang Family''s cultivators were probably distracted by the fierce assaults of the Territorial Bear!


    The group of five each pped on a talisman and carefully advanced toward the top of the hill.


    The closer they got, the more numerous the signs of battle became.


    Finally, the scene before them came into view¡ªfamiliar figures: Huang Kaiyu, and six cultivators at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    These Ninth Level cultivators clearly controlled a formation, continuously bombarding it with various types of Five Elements Spells.


    In front of them was a five-meter-tall Territorial Bear, violently pping at two Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    Where the Territorial Bear struck, there were wounds, and where the earth spells in the form of Spirit Armor covering its fur were hit, there were holes. Intermittent stabs of earth woulde forth, but were blocked by the sparkling shield held by Huang Kaiyu.


    The Territorial Bear was clearly at a disadvantage, and the state of the Huang Family members was also extremely poor.


    The Lin Family members could not have arrived at a better time.


    Lin Shiming, recalling the matter of Peach Blossom Valley, suddenly thought of a phrase.


    Vengeance may be dyed, but the hour of reckoning wille!

 Chapter 43: Chapter 43: Exclusively Locking the Earth Escape Spirit Beast

    On top of Nameless Mountain, the roars of the Earth Berserk Bear grew weaker and less furious than before; instead, they conveyed a sense of tragic helplessness, as if crying out in desperation.


    Its injuries had multiplied, and the attacks from Huang Kaiyu and the others had be more ferocious!


    And they aimed every blow at the wounds of the Earth Berserk Bear.


    "Everyone, be careful, this Earth Berserk Bear is definitely going tosh out in its dying throes!"


    Huang Kaiyu, however, did not act rashly, but cautiously reminded several Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators.


    All spells and magic artifacts began to focus on encirclement, like slowly boiling a frog.


    From a distance, Lin Xianzhi, after witnessing this scene, gestured for Lin Shiming and the others to hide well before continuing forward with Lin Houyong.


    He had to eliminate at least one or even two Foundation Establishment supporters on the opposing side to take control of the situation!


    This time, there was no more Supreme Grade Monkey Wine to squander.


    And he would not allow... the tiger to return to the mountain again.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie and the others stood still, watching the battle of the Foundation Establishment Stage with some surprise; the earth-shattering power disyed by a wave of their hands was the true terror of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lin Shiming had some restraint towards Foundation Establishment cultivators; the fight of the cornered beast wasn''t as heart-stopping. Instead, he started to wonder why the Earth Berserk Bear didn''t try to escape.


    Where was the Third Rank Spirit Vein?


    If an Inferior Grade Second Rank Spirit Vein yielded an entire Spirit Pool of Spirit Water, what kind of Spiritual Objects would a Third Rank Spirit Vein have?


    This could be the key to his breakthrough!


    "Big brother, look over there!" Lin Shiming pulled on Lin Shijie''s shoulder, drawing thetter''s gaze back from his deep yearnings.


    "Is that the Earth Berserk Bear''s cave?" Lin Shijie was also ted.


    Behind the Earth Berserk Bear, around a kilometer away, there actually was a five-meter-tall cave. Piles of Demonic Beast bonesy outside the cave, along with the fresh and bloody remains of several Demonic Beasts that had just been killed for food.


    The inside of the cave was pitch ck and seemed profoundly deep and long.


    Lin Shiming and the others did not dare to use their Divine Sense to probe, feeling anxious.


    Meanwhile, the nearby battle had reached its final, intense stage.


    The Earth Berserk Bear, knowing that it had no hope of survival, became even more ferocious. Its massive body leaped into the air and crashed down like Mount Tai with crushing force.


    Both of its bear paws gathered Earth Attribute Spiritual Energy frantically, the wind they blew carrying a fishy smell, and the Spiritual Pressure they emitted caused the Huang Family''s brows to furrow as they took several steps back!


    "Quick, use all your means, this cursed bear is about to die!" Huang Kaiyu''s entire True Yuan surged as he brought out the Third Rank Golden Shield, which instantly grew over six meters high and more than five meters thick, firmly blocking the front.


    Huang Kaiyu then consecutively unleashed a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Flying Sword, a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Ring, and a Third Rank Superior Grade Treasure Pagoda!


    Three great Foundation Establishment Magic Artifacts, resplendent with Spirit Light, transformed into supreme killing weapons, shing towards the Earth Berserk Bear.


    The remaining Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators also showed bulging veins, exerting all their strength in operating the Formation; it was as if the whole world had be a world of the Five Elements with various spells running rampant.


    Boom!


    The earth-shattering sound made Lin Shiming and others in the distance feel as if their ears were going to burst.


    The ground itself was sted several meters down.


    "Finally killed this damned beast!" Huang Kaiyu breathed a huge sigh of relief, seeing the Earth Berserk Bear perish, his whole body rxed.


    "Be careful!" Suddenly, Huang Kaiyu''s brows furrowed tightly, and he turned and loudly cautioned.


    He clearly sensed something.


    But it was already toote!


    A huge Qinglian Sword, carrying unmatched sword light and Spiritual Energy.


    Thud!


    The three-rank Inferior Grade Inner Armor on Huang Kaiyu''s body simply shattered and exploded, and his torso was cleaved in half.


    Before Huang Kaiyu could even be alert, let alone change his expression, Lin Xianzhi had instantly killed him with one strike!


    The scene fell deadly silent!


    "Lin Xianzhi, how are you here!" Huang Kaiyu, seeing Huang Kaiyu''s death, was instantly shocked beyond measure, then his rage red up.


    Frantically forming incantations in his hands, he suspended three Third Rank magic artifacts around him, ready tounch abined assault on Lin Xianzhi!


    The courtesies he imagined did not ur; Lin Xianzhi''s time was clearly very precious!


    Another Qinglian Sword flew out!


    It fiercely shed towards several Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators.


    "Lin Xianzhi, aren''t you afraid of our Fifth Uncle, aren''t you afraid of the Li Family?" Huang Kaiyu bellowed, hoping to make Lin Xianzhi stop.


    But as the Qinglian Sword flew out, its gleam followed suit.


    Wherever it passed, blossoms of blood bloomed!


    The few Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, having almost exhausted all their spiritual energy in theirst strike and unable to replenish it in time, instantly four perished!


    The remaining two, desperately pressed a Spirit Talisman and managed to escape underground!


    They barely dodged the attack!


    Two streaks of Escape Light, one to the left and one to the right, escaped underground in all directions, with Lin Houyong immediately charging after one of the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators.


    Lin Xianzhi wanted to eliminate the remaining one, but he hadn''t expected Huang Kaiyu''s three magic artifacts to bombard him at that moment.


    He had no choice but to stop and block them with his sword.


    After the three sword strikes, his old strength waned and new strength had yet to arise.


    Lin Xianzhi finally spoke up:


    "Noise!"


    "You!!!!"


    Huang Kaiyu was so furious he could spit blood, they were both at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, why did Lin Xianzhi not take him seriously.


    And why didn''t Lin Xianzhi dare to actst time, but dared this time?


    The two once again engaged in battle, unlike before, although Lin Xianzhi had recovered his cultivation level,cking the replenishment of Supreme Grade Monkey Wine, he no longer overwhelmed Huang Kaiyu, who possessed three Third Rank Intermediate Grade or above magic artifacts, like before.


    But he still suppressed Lin Xianzhi with every single sword strike.


    Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming watched, captivated, cultivators at the Foundation Establishment Stage were truly terrifying!


    On the side, Lin Shiming watched the remaining escaping Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator with some anxiety.


    "Something''s wrong, he''s making a move under the cover of darkness!" With the battle unfolding, Lin Shiming no longer needed to hide his identity and retracted his Divine Sense.


    Upon doing so, he saw, to his astonishment, that the remaining Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator was actually charging toward the cave dwelling of the great earth explosive bear!


    Lin Shiming himself was shocked by the boldness of this cultivator!


    The Huang Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators were already in peril, yet this person dared to snatch chestnuts from the fire, exploiting the chaos!


    "Big Brother, someone''s stealing treasures in the bear''s cave!" Lin Shiming alone did not dare to approach; knowing full well that given his current strength, he could at best exert the power of the Fifth Level, let alone attempt to deploy the Snake Vine Flower.


    "What?" Lin Shijie cried out in shock and then immediately flew into a rage!


    At such a critical time, there was actually someone pilfering treasures!


    After calling out to Lin Shiming, the three of them mounted their swords and flew towards the cave together.


    Because they were rtively close, they quickly arrived at the bear''s cave!


    At the cave, the three immediately sensed a thick scent of blood, followed by an extremely rich spiritual energy, which made them all take a deep breath.


    An Inferior Grade Third Rank Spirit Vein was undoubtedly here; only a Third Rank Intermediate Grade great earth explosive bear could upy an Inferior Grade Third Rank Spirit Vein.


    The treasures of the Third Rank Spirit Vein were naturally extremely precious!


    "Big Brother, we need to figure out a way to prevent him from escaping underground!" Lin Shiming said with a frown.


    "Don''t worry, it was only because our revered seventh uncle wasn''t prepared!" Lin Shijie confidently said, then took out several formation gs from his Storage Bag.


    "Is that?"


    "The Lock Earth Formation, designed specifically to prevent some precious underground escaping spirit beasts from fleeing!"

 Chapter 44: Chapter 44: Breakthrough?

    About a dozen Spirit gs flew into the ground, and instantly streams of Spiritual Energy formed a specific Spirit Prison, locking the earth within a radius of a hundred meters.


    Especially since the Spiritual Energy here was rich, it further enhanced the power of the Lock Earth Formation.


    "Let''s go!" With the Lock Earth Formation ready, the group prepared to easily capture their prey.


    Though at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, having sustained such severe injuries and with most of their Spiritual Energy consumed, the three were not overly fearful.


    Lin Shimo led the way at the front, with three Iron Corpses before him.


    The Iron Corpses were glowing with a cold light and were still covered in corpse hair, which gave Lin Shiming the chills.


    In particr, seeing Lin Shimo caress the three Iron Corpses seemed rather affectionate.


    Of course, Lin Shiming didn''t dawdle either. He brought out both the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis, being very cautious at this critical moment.


    Most of his strength was associated with the Snake Vine Flower, which he couldn''t use now.


    When the Red-haired Demon Monkey came out, it held the Profound Water Heavy Mountain and looked curiously into the cave. The Golden Winged Mantis quietly followed behind Lin Shiming.


    "Seventh Brother, is this mantis the one you bought at the marketst time?" Lin Shijie was curious.


    This mantis was entirely golden and, without saying, looked way more formidable than themon green-winged mantis!


    Its Spirit Might overwhelmingly crushed thetter by an unknown margin.


    "Yes!" Lin Shiming didn''t borate, and though Lin Shijie was curious, now wasn''t the time for questions.


    With all their defenses set, the three began to walk into the cave!


    Just then, a figure inside suddenly charged out, wielding a Second Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword, shing fiercely.


    "Damn Lin Family brats, to actually trap me with a Spirit Beast''s Lock Earth Formation!" The yellow-robed cultivator, after obtaining the treasure, naturally thought of using the Earth Escape Technique to flee.


    But he didn''t expect that he would be trapped by the specifically countering Lock Earth Formation, unable to use the Earth Escape Talisman without destroying the formation''s foundation!


    "I''ll have you cut into a thousand pieces!"


    This sword carried an endless roar and fury.


    Lin Shimo''s Iron Corpses charged forward first, only to be split apart by the Spirit Sword.


    The remaining two didn''t even get a chance to advance before being bypassed, and the attack continued charging toward Lin Shimo.


    Lin Shijie let out a mighty shout, his whole body surging with Spiritual Power as a Superior Grade Fire-returning Fire Sword shed towards the Earthy Yellow Spirit Sword.


    ng!


    With a crisp ringing sound, the yellow-robed cultivator''s Earthy Yellow Spirit Sword, true to its Supreme Grade status, still held the advantage, continuing with its relentless force.


    The yellow-robed cultivator sneered as he urged his sword, increasing its might even further!


    Boom!


    The next moment, to his shock, he heard two cries, and a mini mountain suddenly smashed over.


    His sword, as if struck by a massive mountain, changed direction instantly and drastically.


    Heavy, iparably heavy.


    With the sword''s direction altered, the attack was naturally rendered ineffective.


    But one must know that at this moment, there were still two Iron Corpses, each equally furious, reaching out to grab the yellow-robed cultivator.


    These Iron Corpses, each equivalent to a mid-level Qi Cultivation cultivator, but more formidable in that they did not fear death and their bodies were as tough as iron!


    The cave was already narrow, leaving no room for the yellow-robed cultivator to escape!


    He could only take out another Shield Magical Instrument and fiercely p the two Iron Corpses away.


    A sword light shot out, and this time, Lin Shijie''s sword was still engulfed in rolling mes.


    The frenzy was unparalleled as he shed at the yellow-robed cultivator.


    The yellow-robed cultivator once again maneuvered the Spirit Sword to save himself.


    "Damn it, if it weren''t for theck of Spiritual Energy?" the yellow-robed cultivator raged helplessly as his Storage Bag still contained several powerful Magic Artifacts, but his Spiritual Energy had long since been mostly depleted, and he had narrowly escaped death under Lin Xianzhi''s sword.


    Using Spirit Stones to recover Spiritual Energy was simply a drop in the bucket!


    Nheless, his Supreme Grade magical sword was still far superior to Lin Shijie''s Fire-returning Sword.


    However, with a loud boom, the Red-haired Demon Monkey in the distance, had somehow retrieved the Profound Water Heavy Mountain.


    And smashed down again, forcibly knocking aside his Supreme Grade magical sword.


    This made the yellow-robed cultivator so angry he almost vomited blood!


    This method of throwing stones was simply too insulting!


    "I''ll kill you, this demonic creature, first!" the yellow-robed cultivator struggled to wield another sword, shing at the Red-haired Demon Monkey!


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey swiftly dodged to the side, while Lin Shiming, at this moment, was maneuvering the Ink Lotus Sword, shing towards the Spirit Sword.


    The Spiritual Power of Lin Shiming was already scarce, so naturally, the power of the Spirit Sword wasn''t great!


    Eh!


    The yellow-robed cultivator suddenly seemed to have discovered a new world, his gaze sharpening like an eagle''s, focusing on Lin Shiming.


    This was a huge breakthrough!


    The yellow-robed cultivator, disregarding everything else, rushed towards Lin Shiming at once. His Supreme Grade Spirit Sword shed with Lin Shijie, while a Shield Magical Instrument defended against the attacks from the two Iron Corpses and Lin Shiming.


    The man maneuvered a Superior Grade sword, charging at Lin Shiming to kill.


    Lin Shiming was also greatly shocked and quickly pped down three or four Spirit Talismans, including one Superior Grade Water Shield Talisman.


    Numerous Spirit Shields rose, but they barely managed to block the yellow-robed cultivator''s attack, and the Superior Grade Ink Lotus Sword was even shed away.


    Just then, the Red-haired Demon Monkey picked up the Profound Water Heavy Mountain again.


    Lin Shiming, meanwhile, suddenly chanted an ordinary Wood Vine Technique, and numerous vines in the cave almost instantly trapped him before the yellow-robed cultivator could struggle free. A huge small mountain smashed over, it was the Profound Water Heavy Mountain!


    The yellow-robed cultivator had seen the might of the Profound Water Heavy Mountain and quickly maneuvered the Flying Sword to sh the Profound Water Heavy Mountain away!


    And at that moment, a golden light shot out.


    "Just a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Golden Winged Mantis!" the yellow-robed cultivator pped down a body-protecting Spirit Talisman, scornfully sneering before he could finish, but he found that the golden-colored mantis was terrifyingly fast, not even worse than ate-stage Qi Cultivation cultivator.


    And with two golden-hued scythe-like limbs raised, the yellow-robed cultivator saw the body-protecting Spirit Talisman on his surface was shed open in an instant.


    What was also shed was his neck!


    The Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator from the Huang Family, dead!


    The yellow-robed cultivator never would have thought, to his dying breath, that he would be killed by a Second Rank Demonic Beast mantis.


    Lin Shiming went down with a thud, the Spiritually exhausted man once again fell to the ground, breathing heavily.


    In the distance, Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming hurried over to help Lin Shiming.


    The Golden Winged Mantis flew back, nestled behind Lin Shiming, nudging him constantly with its golden triangr head, as if seeking praise.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey also retrieved the Profound Water Heavy Mountain, going over to Lin Shiming''s side, patting Lin Shiming''s Storage Bag with one hand while still fiddling with the Profound Water Heavy Mountain with the other.


    After howling twice, the Golden Winged Mantis behind it also seemed to sense it was feeding time and began chirping.


    "Old Seven, these two Spirit Beasts of yours are quite impressive. Is the second one a descendant of those two Demon Monkeys from Peach Blossom Valley?" Lin Shijie, seeing that Lin Shiming was simply exhausted, immediately turned his attention to the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis, his eyes full of admiration.


    "Hmm, let''s first see what treasures we can find!" Lin Shiming then changed the subject, starting to look forward to the treasures they might get.

 Chapter 45: Chapter 45 Spirit Soil

    Inside the bear cave, Lin Shiming stood up and brushed the dust off his body.


    He took out some Spirit Water and Spirit Food from his Storage Bag and shared them with the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and the two Spirit Beasts immediately huddled to the side and began to eat and drink heartily.


    Lin Shiming then looked towards the outside of the cave, where the battle had clearly drawn to a close.


    The group couldn''t help but send out their Divine Sense to probe the outside and found that Seventh Uncle Lin Xianzhi was picking up Storage Bags from several Foundation Establishment Cultivators, while Fifth Uncle Lin Houyong was also returning happily with a Storage Bag in hand.


    The trio instantly sighed in relief. Although they had their suspicions, Huang Kaiyu was still a Cultivator at the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment, and idents could happen.


    In the Cultivation World, it was not umon for mishaps to ur.


    In this conflict, the Huang Family had lost thirty-four Qi Cultivationter-stage Cultivators, twelve at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, and two at the Foundation Establishment stage!


    After this battle, not only would the Huang Family have difficulty seeking trouble with the Lin Family, but they would also have to be cautious of other families.


    Without power and wealth to match their standing, in the eyes of other Foundation Establishment families, they were nothing but delectable morsels.


    Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyong, one after the other, headed toward the bear cave, with the body of the Earth Rampage Bear being collected by Lin Xianzhi.


    The body of a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast was a treasure trove in and of itself, especially the pair of bear paws which, when used to make a pair of gauntlets, would be of the best effect.


    If handled by apetent Artifact Refiner, they could certainly craft a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifact which would make those Foundation Establishment Body Cultivators flock to it in frenzy.


    "Seventh Uncle, Fifth Uncle!" Lin Shiming and the others called out almost simultaneously.


    "Well done!" Lin Xianzhi gave the trio a morale boost before taking the lead into the depths of the cave dwelling.


    They did not take the Storage Bag of the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Cultivator in the yellow robe, seemingly granting tacit approval for the trio to keep it.


    Lin Shiming and the others quickly followed. Although they had arrived early, they were preupied with fighting the yellow-robed Cultivator and had no time to check the contents of the bear cave, so they too were curious.


    Reaching the deepest part of the bear cave, the space opened up considerably, revealing a five or six-meter-wide hollow suitable for the Earth Rampage Bear to sprawl out for sleep. Next to the hollow was a pile of overturned fertile soil.


    The rich Spiritual Energy diffused into the air, clearly the result of several Spirit Grasses being plucked; the Spirit Grass should be inside the yellow-robed Cultivator''s Storage Bag without surprise.


    To Lin Shiming''s disappointment, there was no Spirit Pool.


    However, the Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein was indeed here.


    The thick Spiritual Energy was even more concentrated than that of the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein discovered in Peach Blossom Valley.


    "Excellent! With this Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein, our family''s Spirit Vein can be upgraded to a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein!" Lin Xianzhi eximed upon assessing the concentration of Spiritual Energy, his face full of smiles.


    This time, their goal was achieved, and the results exceeded all expectations, annihting all the Huang Family Cultivators and seizing the Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein.


    Lin Xianzhi then walked over to the disturbed soil where the Spirit Grass had been plucked and took out a Jade Box, beginning to collect the soil.


    Seeing the confusion of others, Lin Xianzhi patiently exined.


    "Spirit Veins also have attributes. If there''s more of the Water Attribute in a Spirit Vein, it will emit rich Water Attribute Spiritual Energy, and it''s likely to produce Spirit Water in a Spirit Pool. Here, the Earth Attribute Spiritual Energy is more abundant, naturally resulting in Spirit Soil!"


    It seemed as if to validate his thoughts, Lin Xianzhi grabbed a handful of Spirit Soil and handed it to Lin Shiming, speaking slowly.


    "You have Wood Vine seeds, try putting the Wood Vine seeds into it and see!"


    Lin Shiming nodded, took the Spirit Soil, and retrieved some Wood Vine seeds from his Storage Bag to ce inside it.


    A miraculous scene began to unfold as Lin Shiming didn''t even use his Wood Vine Technique to infuse and stimte growth.


    But they saw the gentle green buds starting to appear, clearly teeming with life to an unfathomable degree.


    "This is Third Rank Spirit Soil, which aids Spirit nts of the same rank, especially suitable for transnting precious Spirit nts!" Lin Xianzhi exined once again.


    Lin Shiming and the others were also a mix of surprise and delight, not expecting this dark soil to possess such miraculous effects.


    Lin Xianzhi apportioned three jin of Spirit Soil to each person from the Shiming generation down to Lin Houyong, and carefully stored the majority of the remainder.


    "Houyong, go outside and set up a Defensive Array, then take some time to recover!" Lin Xianzhi instructed Lin Houyong, who replied with an affirming sound and strode away.


    Lin Xianzhi also began to find a spot to simply recover his Spiritual Energy, for the battle at the Foundation Establishment Stage drained far more energy than imagined.


    Moreover, near the Spirit Vein, the recovery speed was much faster than usual.


    As for Lin Shiming and the other two, they respectfully left the deepest area and found a rtively t ce to start dividing the contents of the Storage Bag.


    In the hands of Lin Shijie was the yellow-robed cultivator''s Storage Bag.


    The loot from the yellow-robed cultivator from the Huang Family, in by the three of them, was by default theirs.


    For the Storage Bag of a cultivator who managed to escape under their seventh granduncle''s sword and seemed to have stolen the treasures from the bear cave, the three were quite expectant.


    "Younger Seventh, Younger Fourth, the usual rules¡ªsplit equally among the three of us. Younger Seventh, you made thergest contribution so you choose first. Younger Fourth, your Iron Corpse sustained damage, so you pick second!" Lin Shijie said fairly, then under the gaze of the other two, began to take out the contents of the Storage Bag one by one.


    Most of the yellow-robed cultivator''s Spirit Talismans and Spirit Pills had been used up, leaving behind a pile of magic artifacts, an assortment of Spirit Grasses, and some Spirit Stones, along with two Jade Slips.


    The first thing Lin Shijie checked was the two Jade Slips, which would surely be imprinted with a copy for each person before being handed over to the family in exchange for Contribution Points.


    To their surprise, the first Jade Slip recorded the method to refine the gs for the Five Element Spirit Breaking Formation and the formation technique itself, the same one used by several Qi Cultivationter stage members of the Huang Family tounch abined attack with the power equivalent to that of Foundation Establishment Spells.


    This formation wasn''t particrly practical for the three of them, but as a Supreme Grade Second Rank formation, it was worth at least four to five thousand Spirit Stones.


    And it was the kind that was priceless and difficult to find on the market.


    The second Jade Slip made them even happier as it turned out to be a Five Element Escape Talisman inheritance, detailing escape talismans for five different attributes, suitable for fleeing under various circumstances.


    This sort of talisman inheritance was far more precious than many ordinary Spirit Talisman inheritances, for in certain scenarios, it could save a cultivator''s life.


    Like that yellow-robed cultivator, if he had not been so greedy, he surely could have escaped.


    To hand over to the family, it was worth at least three or four thousand Spirit Stones in rewards.


    The three were immediately beaming with joy; these two Jade Slips alone were worth seven to eight thousand Spirit Stones.


    Next, when choosing magic artifacts, Lin Shiming took the best one, a Supreme Grade Second Rank magic sword, while Lin Shiming selected a Supreme Grade shield, which he named Thick Earth Shield.


    Finally, his armaments wereplete: with the recently acquired Green Sky Sword, the Thick Earth Shield for defense, and the Snake Vine Flower for control.


    A strong sense of confidence spontaneously sprouted in Lin Shiming''s heart, but he quickly suppressed it, reminding himself of how many formidable figures there were in the cultivation world.


    Lin Shijie was thest to choose; he took three Intermediate Grade Second Rank magic swords and an unused Earth Escape Spirit Talisman.


    Lin Shiming initially wanted to give up the Supreme Grade magic sword, but Lin Xianzhi refused, presenting his Fire-returning Fire Sword instead.


    All in all, the three were quite satisfied. Besides the treasures, each person received five hundred Spirit Stones.


    Having divided the spoils, they all couldn''t help but marvel at the yellow-robed cultivator''s wealth.


    Last of all, Lin Shijie brought out the final few Jade Boxes, which contained the Spirit Herbs taken by the yellow-robed cultivator.

 Chapter 46: Chapter 46: Illusionary Heart Grass and Five Elements Flag

    The dark green jade box, engraved with exquisitely beautiful spirit patterns, was carefully opened by Lin Shijie.


    Each ice-blue spirit grass was ced within, the leaves of which were still shimmering with some sparkling spirit light, dazzlingly beautiful.


    The spirit grass exuded a spiritual energy far exceeding that of the second rank, breathing deeply one could smell a refreshing, piercing grass scent.


    Instantly invigorating and clearing the mind in an unprecedented way.


    "What is this?" Lin Shiming and the other two couldn''t help but rub their eyes, faces full of disbelief.


    "This is Illusionary Heart Grass, one of the three main ingredients of the Foundation Establishment Pill, the Illusionary Heart Grass!" Lin Shijie eximed, losing hisposure first.


    Lin Shijie''s grandfather is Lin Yuqi, the only second-rank superior grade alchemist in the Lin Family. Lin Shijie, although not fond of alchemy, had grown up familiar with most spirit nts.


    Let alone the legendary Illusionary Heart Grass, one of the three main medicinal ingredients for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Hearing this, Lin Shiming and Lin Shimo no longer had any doubts and began to uncontrobly reveal the excitement in their hearts as they opened the other jade boxes one by one.


    In the end, ten jade boxes, exactly ten Illusionary Heart Grasses.


    The stronger scent of the grass invigorated the trio''s minds even more.


    Three of them were immature grasses less than ten years old, but the remaining seven were hundred-year Illusionary Heart Grasses suitable for real medicinal use.


    "Let''s hand these over to Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming said first, breaking the silence.


    Lin Shijie and Lin Shimo both nodded in agreement.


    The matter of the Illusionary Heart Grass being a key ingredient for Foundation Establishment was of huge import.


    If auctioned at the market, it would already be worth tens of thousands of spirit stones, and its value couldn''t be solely measured in spirit stones. Anyone with Illusionary Heart Grass wouldn''t be foolish enough to sell it.


    The three of them carefully closed the jade boxes, and to maintain the vitality of the three immature grasses, Lin Shiming even took out half a catty of spirit soil and ced it inside the box.


    Returning once again to the deep part of the bear cave, they called for Seventh Great-Uncle.


    Upon hearing of the Illusionary Heart Grass, Lin Xianzhi took the matter very seriously and, after receiving the jade box from Lin Shiming, handled it with even more care than usual.


    Gently lifting the lid of the jade box, looking at the Illusionary Heart Grass lying inside, Lin Xianzhi couldn''t help but take a deep breath.


    "Shiming, you guys have made a great contribution again!"


    Lin Xianzhi looked at the three people in front of him, and the admiration in his eyes grew even stronger.


    Moreover, Lin Houyong, who had juste back from setting up the formation outside, saw the Illusionary Heart Grass and waspletely stunned, unable to control the expression on his face, which was filled with joy.


    This was the first time Lin Shiming had seen his fifth uncle lose hisposure and show such ecstasy.


    "The family also has another main ingredient for the Foundation Establishment Pill, Profound Ice Flower, and only the Heavenly Spirit Fruit is needed to start refining the Foundation Establishment Pill!" In his joy, Lin Xianzhi exined to the younger generation and hoped that the ones with the ''Shi'' generation name would remember this.


    Especially Lin Shiming, with such good fortune, who knows, he might actually find the Heavenly Spirit Fruit.


    Lin Houyong was at the ninth level of Qi Cultivation and also a seed for Foundation Establishment within the family, but Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Houyuan, had a better spirit root than Lin Houyong, and was younger with more time to hone his skills. Even if the Foundation Establishment Pill was purchased then,


    Lin Houyuan would be given priority. And it is known that Lin Houyong is already 57, not far from the life essence limit of sixty for Foundation Establishment.


    The appearance of the Illusionary Heart Grass undoubtedly brought great hope to thetter.


    "Shiming, Shijie, Shimo, for retrieving the spirit grass, each of you will be awarded five thousand contribution points!" Lin Xianzhi promised outright.


    "Thank you, Uncle Seven Ancestor!" Lin Shiming and the other two were immediately ecstatic, as the 5000 contribution points were equivalent to 5000 Spirit Stones.


    Additionally, once back at the family n, handing over those two Jade Slips could also earn them seven or eight thousand contribution points. Converting that to Spirit Stones, each person would have two or three thousand Spirit Stones.


    In an instant, their wealth even surpassed that of a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elder.


    And keep in mind, during the ambush by the Huang Family, each of them had obtained a Storage Bag from a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elder and ate-stage Qi Cultivation Cultivator.


    Those bags certainly contained many treasures as well.


    "Alright, you all should also take the time to recover your Spiritual Energy. Tomorrow, we will transnt the Spirit Vein and return to Fangmu Mountain!" Lin Xianzhi spoke up.


    "Yes!" Lin Shiming was alright, and upon hearing Uncle Seven Ancestor speak, he immediately suppressed his emotions, his mind became calm, and he began to quietly cultivate.


    Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming became somewhat restless and stepped out. Lin Shijie wanted to test the newly acquired Spirit Sword, while Lin Shiming intended to try and revive the Iron Corpse and Blood Corpse.


    The night passed without incident, and Lin Shiming woke from cultivation to find it was early the next morning.


    The gentle Spiritual Power of the Qing Mu Art, along with the medicinal effects of the Green Lotus and Superior Grade Monkey Wine, slightly restored Lin Shiming''s meridians. He believed that with just half a month of rest, he could return to his peak condition.


    Furthermore, Lin Shiming had a feeling that the bottleneck at the seventh level of Qi Cultivation had loosened and, once his injuries were healed, all he needed to do was find a ce rich in Spiritual Energy to breakthrough to the seventh level of Qi Cultivation and be a truete-stage Qi Cultivation Cultivator.


    He would also be ate-stage Qi Cultivation Cultivator at the age of twenty-one.


    At that time, Lin Shiming would be able to cultivate the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique. With the Secret Technique, his Spiritual Energy would far exceed that of his peers by three or four times, giving him a natural advantage in spell battles.


    Then, with his numerous Magic Artifacts, even Cultivators at the eighth or ninth levels of Qi Cultivation would be worth a fight.


    While Lin Shiming was eagerly looking forward to this, the three Spirit Beasts in his Spirit Beast Bag began to make noise on time, sending out emotions calling for Lin Shiming from inside the Storage Bag.


    Lin Shiming approached and released the three Spirit Beasts.


    Due to the consumption of Beast Nurturing Pills, these Spirit Beasts ate frequently and punctually.


    The Spirit Waterbined with the Spirit Food had also been a bit of a headache for Lin Shiming. Fortunately, this trip to the Qingyun Mountain range had been very fruitful; otherwise, he really would have had to find ways to acquire more Spirit Stones.


    After feeding the Spirit Beasts, Lin Shiming took out the two Storage Bags he had obtained previously, to check and summarize the loot.


    Thete-stage Qi Cultivation Cultivator''s Storage Bag was obviously a bit poor, containing only a few hundred Spirit Stones, several second-rank superior grade Spiritual Artifacts, and a few Spirit Talismans, but no Supreme Grade Spiritual Artifacts.


    Next was the turn of the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Cultivator''s Storage Bag.


    As soon as he opened it, he saw a five-colored small g with exquisite Spirit Patterns emitting strong fluctuations of Spiritual Energy.


    "Five Elements g!" Lin Shiming had not expected that this Storage Bag actually belonged to the Cultivator who had bombarded Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming. Nor did he expect that the Five Elements g he had longed for was now in his own hands.


    As for Talismans, having the Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, Five Elements g, was an incredible boon.


    Lin Shiming''s heart overflowed with gratitude towards Uncle Seven Ancestor, understanding that the allocation of Storage Bags must have taken his interests into ount.


    This Five Elements g, even among Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, was a fine piece, worth at least six or seven thousand Spirit Stones. With the ability to unleash five different spells in rapid session, its power was truly fierce.


    Needless to say, the Rejuvenation Herb and Lin Shijie''s Fire-returning Fire Sword had suffered greatly under this Five Elements g.


    After securing the Five Elements g, it took Lin Shiming quite some time to calm his emotions. As for the rest of the Magic Artifacts, none were particrly stunning. He nned to sell the superior grade artifactster and convert them into Spirit Stones.


    He found an additional eight hundred or so Spirit Stones.

 Chapter 47: Chapter 47 Second Elders Concerns

    The sun had climbed high into the sky by the third gong, and Lin Xianzhi, who had been recuperating in the cave, finally woke up. He called over Lin Shiming and the others, one by one.


    Once again, he began the spirit calling. It was the same unnamed spirit te that had, at some unknown time, appeared in Lin Xianzhi''s hands.


    Just like thest time, Lin Xianzhi executed the exceedinglyplex spirit calling art. The spirit te shone brilliantly, a dragon-like spiritual energy roaring like a dragon''s chant surged towards the heavens.


    Then, this dragon-shaped spiritual energy dived forcefully and burrowed into the ground where the spirit soil was located.


    The surrounding spiritual energy began to climb again.


    Compared to the Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, the spirit calling proved more difficult. Beads of sweat started to form on Lin Xianzhi''s forehead, his furrowed brows betraying the challenge of the task.


    Finally, another Spirit Art was cast. A dragon''s cry was heard and the surrounding spiritual energy slowly began to diminish.


    A yellowish-brown dragon-shaped spiritual energy, having grown significantlyrger, flew into the spirit te.


    "Capture!" Lin Xianzhi put away the spirit te. With this action, their journey to Qingyun was essentially concluded.


    Without dy, the group of five continued on their spirit boat flying away from the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    They joined the Great Elder and others by the side of an old hillock.


    Lin Yuqi and Lin Houshou''s injuries had improved slightly, but were still quite serious. They needed to return to Fangmu Mountain for quiet recuperation.


    However, the emotions of the Lin Family members grew heavier on the return journey; there were fewer of the "Hou" generation now.


    The scenes from the outward journey were still vivid in their memory, but upon returning, everything seemed worlds apart.


    Lin Shiming sat in a corner of the spirit boat, gazing at the distant clouds flickering across the blue sky.


    He was overwhelmed with emotions.


    When they returned to Fangmu Mountain, it was already two dayster. Qingyun Mountain Range was closer to Qingyun Market than to the Lin Family, and it was only because Lin Xianzhi maneuvered the Third Rank spirit boat that they managed to arrive within two days.


    As soon as they returned to Fangmu Mountain, Lin Xianzhi ordered a lockdown of the mountain and strictly forbade any family cultivators from leaving ¨C even those with important tasks outside were to hide their identities.


    With the debacle concerning the Huang Family, they could not possibly remain inactive. Even if they had covered up their tracks well in silencing their victims, the Huang Family would still suspect the Lin Family first; there was no doubt about that.


    In addition, Lin Xianzhi instructed Lin Houyong to make a trip to Qingyun Market and deliver a storage bag to his senior fellow disciple, Xie An.


    Then he ordered Lin Houyuan to handle the aftermath for the fallen cultivators. For those with direct cultivator rtives, their belongings andpensation would be handed over to their direct kin. If the direct rtive had no spirit root, the details would be recorded. Should any descendants with a spirit root emerge, they would be entitled to inherit the spirit stones and properties.


    This was also crucial, for a family to have cohesion, winning the hearts of the people was a must!


    Once the orders were given, the Lin Family once again plunged into a frenzy of cultivation.


    Those who had been to Qingyun Mountain Range naturally felt a sense of urgency and devoted themselves fully to cultivation.


    Those who had not, although unaware of the incident with the Huang Family, still envied the wealth of those who had returned, and their cultivation became much more diligent out of a sense ofpetition.


    Most notably, Lin Shimo and Lin Shijie almost simultaneously announced they were entering closed-door cultivation.


    Lin Shiming, on the other hand, was not in a rush. Cultivation should be done in moderation, and having already engaged in arduous cultivation in Qingtao Mountain, he considered this a moment of hard-earned leisure.


    His immediate concern was to heal his injuries, and on the return journey, his seventh granduncle had already advised him not to be in a hurry to break through to theter stages of Qi Cultivation, but instead to wait for the surge of spiritual energy when the spirit vein advanced.


    On the second day, with his beast nurturing pills exhausted, Lin Shiming returned to the Pill Pavilion. In the Earth Fire Hall of the family, just like before, Lin Yuqi was educating a few alchemy apprentices.


    The stern expression silenced the few apprentices, who hung their heads without saying a word.


    "Second Grandpa!" Lin Shiming called out softly.


    As thetter turned his head and saw Lin Shiming, he waved his hand again, and the apprentices, like grasping at straws, quickly packed up the spiritual medicines and went to the adjacent hall.


    "Shiming, are we out of Beast Rearing Pills again?" Lin Yuqi replied to Lin Shiming in an even tone. After seeing Lin Shiming nod, he took out several jade bottles from his storage bag, which contained the Beast Rearing Pills.


    "It''s the same as before, I''ll deduct from your contribution points!"


    Lin Shiming nodded, took out his family token, which currently had over ten thousand contribution points. He wasn''t worried about the deduction.


    When the points were deducted, Lin Yuqi asked Lin Shiming another question:


    "Shiming, what are your thoughts on alchemy?"


    Lin Shiming was somewhat puzzled by the question, but without much thought, he answered:


    "Of course, bing an alchemist is a dreame true. After all, cultivation cannot be separated from the four words: wealth,panions, Dharma, and location. Bing an alchemist means you don''t have to worry about spirit stones and can also create value for the n. And what''s more, you have the guidance of an alchemy master?"


    Deep down, Lin Shiming still harbored the desire to be an alchemist.


    And he had system prompts that could help him avoid taking many detours.


    However, due to the slow speed of his cultivation and the fear that he wouldn''t reach Foundation Establishment by the age of sixty, Lin Shiming had put off considering it for now. Once he had established his foundation and had sufficient lifespan, he would learn and master all that was necessary.


    After hearing Lin Shiming''s response, Lin Yuqi nodded appreciatively, feeling somewhat moved. Then, he sighed again, and suddenly spoke:


    "What do you think about Shitao bing an alchemist?"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming immediately realized that there was more to his second grandpa''s words.


    It seemed that in the past two years, Lin Yuqi had probably been urging Lin Shitao to learn alchemy without much sess.


    However, to his understanding, although she was a talented alchemist, Lin Shitao, who was already at the third level of Qi Cultivation, was not keen on alchemy. Instead, she had a passionate love for spirit nts and had been following Lin Shiqi in taking care of the Spirit Peach Trees on Fangmu Mountain.


    The fragrance of peach blossoms over the mountain and the sea of flowers in full bloom during spring had drawn much praise from the Lin Family elders.


    Lin Shiming hadn''t answered yet.


    On the other side, Lin Yuqi took another long breath, feeling a sense of weary helplessness:


    "Shiming, your second grandpa is getting old. In twenty more years, I don''t know if I''ll be able to see the day our family concocts a third-rank elixir!"


    Having said that, he looked towards the Earth Fire.


    The Earth Fire burned vigorously, and without anyone controlling it, the mes would sometimes leap very high and sometimes fall very low.


    In that moment, Lin Shiming saw helplessness in the old man''s eyes, as well as his worry about the family''s future alchemists.


    Alchemy was a difficult skill for Qi Refinement Realm cultivators, especially those without talent. It''s possible that years or even decades would pass without any achievement in the art. Such dys could potentially ruin one''s path to Foundation Establishment, leaving no possibility to reach it. This was generally why cultivators were not enthusiastic about alchemy.


    Aside from those with excellent talent, fast learners, or those with Dual or Third Spirit Roots who were confident about their speed of cultivation, generally only those with Quintuple or Fourth Spirit Roots, who knew there was no hope on their path and were looking to find a different way, would consider it.


    But for higher-level cultivators, those in the Foundation Establishment or Purple Mansion Realm, having a skill was much moremon. After all, by this time cultivators had enough lifespan, and seeking further breakthroughs required more resources and experience.


    "Second Grandpa, Shiming will try to persuade Shitao!" Lin Shiming, looking at Lin Yuqi''s barely open eyes gazing at the Earth Fire and thinking of the family''s situation, spoke out.

 Chapter 48: Chapter 48: The Tide of Spiritual Energy

    Fangmu Mountain''s Peach Blossom Forest had already taken shape, and at its peak, the entire mountain was suffused with the delicate fragrance of peach blossoms.


    At this time, the flowering season was nearing its end, the buds'' pink hues slowly turning to dark red.


    Under thergest second-rank intermediate grade Spirit Peach Tree, Lin Shiqi, apanied by Lin Shitao, sprinkled some Spirit Soil and poured in some Nurturing Spirit Liquid.


    "Third sister, Shitao!" Lin Shiming carried the formation token, following the designated path into the Peach Blossom Forest.


    At this moment, the third sister looked no different from two years ago, the only change being her cultivation level reaching the fifth level of Qi Cultivation; but the Lin Shitao standing next to her surprised Lin Shiming.


    Gone was the frail little girl of two years past, reced by a delicate and pretty youngdy, her brows like delicate strokes of ink, skin like curdled cream, and dressed in a green gown, she exuded an indescribable ethereal charm.


    "Seventh brother!"


    "Seventh brother!" Both greeted Lin Shiming at the same time.


    "Looking for Shitao, are you?" Lin Shiqi''s eyebrows yfully arched as herment made both Lin Shiming and Lin Shitao blush slightly.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but smile wryly inside; how could it be that even the most straightforward matters would always take a peculiar turn when mentioned by Lin Shiqi?


    "Shitao is, after all, someone I brought into Fangmu Mountain, so I came to have a look," Lin Shiming exined, brushing off Lin Shiqi''s jest.


    "Alright then, I''ll leave you to it and have a good look!" Lin Shiqi gave Lin Shiming a meaningful nce and, to his surprise, walked off to the side.


    Which left Lin Shiming standing there, somewhat stupefied.


    "Thank you, seventh... brother, for your concern, I''m doing well," Lin Shitao said, her face turning slightly red as she spoke with a shy and evasive gaze, her hand reaching out to hold Lin Shiqi, only to grasp at air.


    "Shitao, what do you think of Alchemists?" Lin Shiming, seeing that Lin Shiqi had walked away, cut to the chase and asked directly.


    "Alchemists are great, I really like being an Alchemist!" Lin Shitao happily replied, then quickly added in a different tone.


    "But Shitao has no time, I need to take care of the peach trees for seventh brother. Third sister said, even the Monkey Wine made from these Spirit Peach Trees will yield a share, and grandpa also needs to supervise my cultivation!"


    "About that, third sister will take care of these Spirit Peach Trees. Haven''t you noticed that she has been unhappy ever since you came? When Lin Shiming heard Lin Shitao''s heartfelt reasoning, a warmth filled his heart; he hadn''t expected the little girl would take care of the Spirit Peach Trees and improve the harvest just because he was getting a share.


    "Go and focus on learning alchemy without worries. My share isn''t much, but I do need a lot of Beast Nurturing Pills!"


    "Okay!"


    Lin Shitao agreed without hesitation.


    As Lin Shiming felt warmed by the interaction, he began to inquire into Lin Shitao''s cultivation situation and offered some guidance on the challenges she faced in her practice. After spending half an hour there, he finally left.


    Of course, what he didn''t know was that a graceful figure lingered in the Peach Blossom Forest for a long, long time.


    ...


    Atop Fangmu Mountain, within the Qinglian Pool, the lotus leaves were a vibrant green amidst the abundance of Spiritual Energy.


    Half a monthter, Lin Xianzhi''s injuries had finally healed.


    Some of the Lin Family members with better aptitude who were also facing cultivation bottlenecks were summoned to the side of the Qinglian Pool.


    Lin Shiming was one of them, and apart from him, there were two other elders with the surname Lin, Uncle Lin Houwei and Uncle Lin Houyou.


    One of them, a second-rank intermediate grade Artifact Refiner at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, was the family member most likely to reach the rank of a second-rank superior grade Artifact Refiner; he was also seen as the most likely after the elder brother, Lin Houyong, with the surname Lin, to be an elder at the ninth level of Qi Cultivation.


    These three, along with the old patriarch Lin Xianzhi, were the only ones ready to receive the surge of Spiritual Energy.


    In addition to these, the Lin Family''s elders were also standing by in full preparation.


    The elevation of the Spirit Vein was of utmost importance, and nothing could be left to chance, especially for Lin Houshou and Lin Yushui, who were entrusted with the critical task of maintaining the formation. Any disruption could cause a leakage of Spiritual Energy, which would be a grave matter.


    "Get ready, we''re starting!" Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, tossed the Spirit te into the air, and began to make hand gestures and incantations.


    One Spirit Art after another was cast into the Spirit te, which then began to emit dense Spirit Patterns.


    After a moment, a yellowish-brown dragon-shaped spiritual energy burst out from the spirit te, surging towards the bottom of the Qinglian Pool.


    The crowd only heard a muffled dragon chanting from deep underground.


    Immediately, the surrounding spiritual energy soared instantaneously, visibly emanating from the ground and even forming dazzling bursts of spirit light, especially within the Qinglian Pool where the light was even richer.


    "Sit on the green lotus, and operate the cultivation technique!" Lin Xianzhimanded.


    He was the first to fly into thergest green lotus in the very center.


    Following that, Lin Shiming and the other two each found a lotus leaf to sit on.


    Outside, Lin Yushui and Lin Houshou shouted in unison, throwing out gs from their hands, dense and numerous, casting several Spirit Arts.


    The formations surrounding them began to light up one by one,pletely locking the spiritual energy tide within the formation.


    On the lotus leaf, Lin Shiming was highly focused, the Qing Mu Art automatically operated along with the rich spiritual energy.


    Small Cirction, Grand Cirction!


    The Grand Cirction, which usually took one or two hours toplete, was done in just fifteen minutes this time.


    Moreover, the spiritual energy cultivated was purer and more robust.


    Time passed, and as more and more spiritual energy gathered inside him, he finally reached a certain point.


    Lin Shiming felt something within him suddenly unlocked, followed by a torrential surge of spiritual energy spreading throughout his body.


    "Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation!"


    Muttering to himself, Lin Shiming clenched his hands tightly, feeling the powerful force of the Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation. Beyond that, his divine sense also expanded by a full fifty percent.


    Of course, Lin Shiming didn''t stop there and began to recall the Profound Rank Superior Grade cultivation technique he''d studied countless times in his mind, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    Before the spiritual energy tide, Lin Xianzhi had already reminded him that he could use the tide to dismantle and rebuild his cultivation, as a Profound Rank Superior Grade cultivation technique would certainly be better than the Huang Rank Qing Mu Art.


    The different methods of operating the Small and Grand Circtions were a significant challenge for Lin Shiming, with thetter being a Profound Rank Superior Grade technique, naturally far moreplex than the Qing Mu Art.


    Fortunately, as both were wood-based techniques, there were some simrities.


    About fifteen minutester, Lin Shiming managed to switch to the new cultivation pathway and method, starting to cultivate from the first level of Qi Cultivation.


    Of course, since it was a rebuilding, all he needed was to refine the spiritual energy; the essence remained the same, so even after the spiritual energy tide ended, it had no effect. He just had to cultivate in the Qinglian Pool for an extended period.


    As Lin Shiming cultivated, then Uncle Thirteen Lin Houwei and Uncle Eleven Lin Houyou also made their breakthroughs one after another.


    The cultivation levels of the Eighth and Ninth Levels of Qi Cultivation were released, causing the elders outside to nod in satisfaction and relief.


    However, at this moment, everyone''s attention turned to Lin Xianzhi. The strength of the family was closely tied to Lin Xianzhi at this moment; all eyes were on him.


    Lin Xianzhi was in the very center of the spiritual energy tide, upying most of it.


    He continued to absorb the energy, and soon, one after another, green lotus blossoms appeared in the Qinglian Pool.


    This brought another wave of joy to the Lin Family. These were Third Rank Intermediate Grade Green Lotuses, yielding ten times more than before, meaning they could harvest ten times more lotus seeds of the same grade in theing years.


    Besides, the spirit lotus roots would undoubtedly increase significantly, nearly multiplying the yield of the Spirit Pool by more than tenfold.


    And just then, everyone saw the white-haired Lin Xianzhi in the center.


    That head of white hair, like snow melting away, disappeared in the blink of an eye, turning into ck strands.


    A more terrifying spiritual pressure then emerged from the Qinglian Pool.


    Lin Xianzhi had finally stepped into thete phase of Foundation Establishment!

 Chapter 49: Chapter 49 Secrets of the Cultivation Technique

    Atop Fangmu Mountain, Qinglian Pool had undergone a significant transformation: the emerald lotus leaves, like massive green umbres, had tinted the entire Spirit Pool green.


    Amidst this verdant expanse were speckled soft red, spirited lotus blossoms, carving out a stunningly beautiful scroll.


    Though it was spring, it seemed as if summer had already arrived.


    Above the Spirit Pool floated faintyers of spiritual mist, giving the entire Qinglian Pool and the cool pavilion the charm of a celestial pond.


    Lin Shiming opened his eyes, feeling the rich and consolidated spiritual energy within his body, and he took a long, deep breath.


    Two whole months had passed since the day of the spiritual energy tide, and Lin Shiming had finally seeded in his re-cultivation, restoring his Qi Cultivation to the seventh level.


    The Profound Rank Superior Grade Purple Wood Heart Sutra, truly worthy of the cultivation technique practiced by our ancestors, once mastered, nearly doubled the spiritual energy of the Qing Mu Art at aparable stage, with iparably denser condensation.


    Moreover, it carried a familiar catalytic effect; it can be said that Lin Shiming, if he had the time, could even catalyze spirit nts. Although the effects wouldn''t be exaggerated, catalyzing a fifty-year spirit nt daily with care, it could be done in twenty-five years.


    In addition, his use of the Wood Vine Technique had be much faster. In the past, he had used the infusion and catalysis when his enemies were unaware, as a preparatory measure.


    But now, for the wood vine seeds, just scattering them was nearly enough tounch an effective attack.


    Especially with the highly toxic Snake Vine Flower, Lin Shiming didn''t need to drink Spiritual Wine to catalyze three at once, and the growth rate of the snake vines would be twice as fast. When the time came, the method Lin Shiyi had wanted to use to crush the seeds would no longer work as effectively.


    However, during this period of cultivation, Lin Shiming had discovered an earth-shattering secret!


    Following the system''s prompt, he actually modified a pathway of the Grand Cirction within the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, which could even be consideredpletely opposite.


    This was something Lin Shiming had never encountered before. Previous hints, whether rting to the improvement of the Qing Mu Art or to the secret techniques of spirit nts, were only slightly off!


    And when he tried to cultivate along the original path for a while afterwards, he still felt a faint pain in his meridians, but this was nothing to cultivators. Ordinary people naturally overlooked this.


    But with the system''s prompt, it was no trivial matter.


    He naturally believed the system''s prompt couldn''t be wrong, which meant that there was an issue with the Purple Wood Heart Sutra given to him by the Qingxuan Sect.


    A true Purple Mansion cultivation technique, how could it have such a significant w.


    At the moment Lin Shiming began to suspect this, he was greatly shocked and rmed for quite some time!


    He was already a disciple of the Zi Xuan Hermit and could be considered half a member of the Qingxuan Sect.


    It was at this moment that he was shaken to realize why there were so many families in the Zhao Kingdom, yet none of them could be a Golden Core Family!


    And how do sect families maintain absolute control?


    You must know that the cohesion of a family was far stronger than that of a sect; after all, they shared the same bloodline, whereas a sect was bound by a thinyer of master-disciple rtionship.


    But if the initial cultivation technique provided was wrong, possessing neither superior financial resources,panions, nor territory, how could one break through to the Golden Core in the future? Being firmly oppressed by the sect was naturally exinable.


    "Indeed, the sect''s practice of taking in nominal disciples from families is a trap!" Lin Shiming had previously been puzzled by why the sects would seemingly favor the scions of families by taking them in as nominal disciples.


    But now, he saw it for what it was a colossal conspiracy!


    If you don''t have a good cultivation method, well, I do, but if you don''tpletely leave your family and join the sect, then you will cultivate a false technique!


    Thetter, though not fatal and even potentially far better than ordinary techniques, would still likely mean being easily manipted by the sectter on!


    Lin Shiming''s face was filled with worry; he didn''t know how to discuss this matter with his Great Uncle, as he believed that his Great Uncle surely had no knowledge of it. After all, tampering with this cultivation technique was something at least the Purple Mansion Hermit would do.


    His Seventh Great Uncle really might not be able to tell.


    At the same time, he did not know whether his Seventh Great Uncle practiced this kind of cultivation technique.


    In his heart, he had firmly concluded that his Seventh Great Uncle must have had dealings with Zi Xuan Hermit!


    The moment Zi Xuan Hermit had fixed his gaze on the Seventh Great Uncle''s Lotus Sword Light, that fleeting look in his eyes, although he never spoke of it, he could not forget it.


    Lin Shiming could not help but heave a deep sigh. His Seventh Great Uncle was in thete stage of Foundation Establishment, and more and more Elders of the ninth level were emerging in the family, but he felt the crisis drawing ever closer.


    With his thoughts in turmoil, the longing emotions of the three spirit beasts began to emanate from within his Storage Bag again.


    Lin Shiming released the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey one by one. The Red-haired Demon Monkey immediately started frolicking about on the Green Lotus leaves, and if those leaves were not Third Rank Spirit nts, it would have likely ended up in the Spirit Pool.


    Lin Shiming had to sternly warn it for quite a while before the Red-haired Demon Monkey unwillingly hopped back, continuing its mischief around Lin Shiming.


    The Golden Winged Mantis still quietly stayed by Lin Shiming''s feet, far more well-behaved than the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and from itsst performance, the terrifying speed of the Golden Winged Mantis and its golden scythe-like limbs, Lin Shiming was very satisfied.


    The Golden Luan Eagle stood on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, quietly preening its feathers.


    After taking out Spirit Food and Beast Nurturing Pills and feeding them, Lin Shiming did not stop for a moment and put the three creatures back into the Spirit Beast Bag.


    If these three spirit beasts caused trouble in the Spirit Pool and were seen by his Seventh Great Uncle, that would be problematic.


    Lin Shiming got up and walked towards the outside of the Spirit Pool. Lin Xianzhi was unusually absent from the vicinity today, and the chessboard in the pavilion remained as it was.


    The only difference was that the white pieces had moved, and the ck pieces too.


    The white side had begun a counterattack, while the ck side was clearly revealing a murderous intent.


    Lin Shiming stood beside the chessboard, his gaze slightly narrowed, standing still for a long while.


    ¡­


    At the Lin Family, the Council Hall was now filled with Elders, with Lin Xianzhi seated at the high seat.


    Everyone was very serious, yet with a hint of expectation.


    Lin Houyuan held a Storage Bag in his hand, with exactly one hundred twenty thousand Spirit Stones inside.


    And in two months'' time, it would be the day of the Qingxuan Sect''s market auction for Foundation Establishment Pills.


    "Seventh Uncle, the Spirit Stones are all prepared!"


    "Hmm, this time Houyuan, Houyong, Yu Qing, Yu Shui, Yu Zheng will go with us, and everyone else must be careful."


    "The Li Family will probably be unable to sit still this time!" After saying this, Lin Xianzhi''s face also showed deep concern.


    A declining family with only one Foundation Establishment cultivator, facing a Purple Mansion Family.


    And all the pressure was on him.


    "Yes!" All the Elders responded in unison.


    "By the way, if Shiminges out of seclusion, he will go this time too, and along with Shijie!" Lin Xianzhi added.


    Suddenly, the Lin Family began to mobilize everyone. If someone observant were paying attention, they would notice that some cultivators, following the Great Elder, had quietly left Fangmu Mountain.

 Chapter 50: Chapter 50: Encountering the Enemy Again

    Ten dayster, a Spirit Boat flew out from Fangmu Mountain, soaring through the skies!


    Almost simultaneously as the Spirit Boat departed, a great amount of dense fog billowed from within Fangmu Mountain, quickly turning everything into a vast expanse of white. The entire Fangmu Mountain was shrouded within it, and from a distance, it was impossible to discern the whereabouts of the mountain anymore.


    On the Spirit Boat, which was now fully activated to itsrgest size with several rooms appearing, sat Lin Xianzhi at the very front, his ck hair fluttering in the wind. The rest of the passengers were quietly cultivating in the rooms.


    Lin Shiming was no exception, sitting quietly in meditation inside one of the rooms on the Spirit Boat. Before him were a Jade Box and the Inheritance Stone he had obtained from Peach Blossom Valley.


    Upon learning of the trip to Qingxuan City, Lin Shiming had started preparing to cultivate the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, a secret technique that he had learned from the Inheritance Stone, which could finally be put to use.


    The most fundamental aspect of this secret technique, the cultivation of the spirit, was divided into two parts: refining the Heart of Heavenly Wood and then assimting it to cultivate the spirit.


    To refine the Heart of Heavenly Wood, one must harvest the core of a century-old spiritual wood and then, aided by secret techniques and copious spiritual materials, inscribe Spirit Patterns to forge it.


    When he was at the Lin Family, Lin Shiming had spent one thousand Contribution Points to exchange for the Mu Xin of a hundred-year Qingmu tree, and another five hundred Contribution Points to gather all the other necessary spiritual materials.


    Unfortunately, the Qingmu tree was only an Intermediate Grade material of the Second Rank, and the Lin Family''s Treasure Pavilion did not have any Superior Grade material of the Second Rank, otherwise the power could have been increased by another fifty percent.


    The secret technique and the inscription of the Spirit Patterns were notplex, and with continuous effort day and night, Lin Shiming had finished refining it in nine days.


    Now, he was just waiting for his cultivation level to recover to its peak state and his essence, qi, and spirit to stabilize before he could begin the process of cultivating the spirit.


    In order to avoid any mistakes, Lin Shiming burned some Huangyun grass once again and checked the Inheritance Stone, memorizing the secret technique over and over until he knew it by heart.


    A quarter of an hourter, Lin Shiming took a deep breath and finally adjusted his state to optimal condition.


    He took out the shining Heart of Heavenly Wood and dropped his Essence Blood onto it. Then, in one go, he executed over a hundred Spirit Arts.


    Suddenly, a great number of Spirit Patterns appeared on the Heart of Heavenly Wood, beginning to resonate with his spiritual power.


    Eventually, following a surge of Spirit Light, the Heart of Heavenly Wood transformed into Spirit Light and directly entered Lin Shiming''s body through his mouth.


    As soon as the Heart of Heavenly Wood entered his body, Lin Shiming felt the spiritual energy inside uncontrobly rushing toward the Heart of Heavenly Wood.


    This startles Lin Shiming; he quickly took out Monkey Wine and Spirit Stones to recover his spiritual energy.


    The terrifying degree of absorptionsted for a full half-hour.


    Finally, as the storage of spiritual energy within the Heart of Heavenly Wood was filled, it ceased to draw in any more spiritual energy from his body.


    Moreover, he could feel that the spiritual energy within the Heart of Heavenly Wood was at his disposal, ready to be used without any issues.


    At this point, Lin Shiming let out a sigh of relief. The cultivation of the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique had been a sess.


    Now, within the Heart of Heavenly Wood, Lin Shiming could clearly sense that it contained twice the amount of spiritual energypared to what he had before.


    If he were to fight against someone of the same rank, this double amount of spiritual energy could almost lead his opponent to despair.


    Keep in mind, the spiritual energy recovered using Spirit Pills and Spirit Water is far less substantial than that cultivated by oneself, and it depletes much quicker.


    Afterpleting the cultivation of the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, Lin Shiming did not stop but continued to sit in meditation and began cultivating the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    Soon, he was pleasantly surprised to discover that the concentration level of his spiritual power had increased by another ten percent.


    This secret technique actually had such an effect as well, making Lin Shiming break into a joyful smile. He wondered if the same effect would apply every time he exhausted the spiritual energy during cultivation.


    After all, the more condensed the spiritual energy, the higher the likelihood of breaking through to the Foundation Establishment stage.


    This secret technique was indirectly increasing the chances of breaking through to the Foundation Establishment stage!


    In the days following, the journey toward Qingxuan City became increasingly pleasant.


    Half a monthter, the Spirit Boat encountered an increase in those controlling Flying Swords and various other flying magic artifacts on their journey, and they even saw quite a few riding flying Spirit Beasts.


    All were heading to the Qingxuan marketce.


    Most of them were Qi Cultivators, with a few being Foundation Establishment Cultivators; as for Purple Mansion Cultivators, Lin Shiming did not see any.


    He presumed that such beings, even if they flew right over their heads, might not necessarily be noticed.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming witnessed on the road what it meant to be a Loose Cultivator''s cruelty.


    A few Loose Cultivators had actuallyin in wait on a small hill, specifically targeting and assaulting passing Qi Cultivators to rob and kill them.


    Then, a group of allied Loose Cultivators began to fight among themselves. It was only after the Lin Family''s Spirit Boat arrived that they finally dispersed.


    After another day of traveling in circles, the Lin Family''s Spirit Boat finally descended outside Qingxuan City.


    Lin Shiming had been to Qingxuan City before, but this time, it feltpletely different from his previous visits.


    Although the number of cultivators was always high in the past, this time it truly could be described as a sea of people.


    The stalls that used to be inside the city had now appeared at the city gates, where many Loose Cultivators were setting up shop.


    "Those Loose Cultivators can''t afford the city entry fee but still want to earn some Spirit Stones through this grand event," Lin Yuqing exined to Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie on the side.


    Clearly, the Great Elder had been here before.


    When they entered the city following Lin Xianzhi, the eight people of the Lin Family paid a total of 80 Spirit Stones.


    Just the cost of entering the city was ten Spirit Stones per person; Lin Shiming finally understood why the street stalls had moved here.


    Upon entering Qingxuan City, the city''s interior was even more bustling.


    "Let''s find an inn first!" Lin Xianzhi spoke indifferently, then took the lead in choosing a direction to walk.


    "Lin Xianzhi!" Suddenly, an angry voice rose, and the group couldn''t help but stop.


    "It really is you!"


    The person who came forward turned out to be from the Huang Family, with Huangyun Qi leading the way. Upon seeing Lin Xianzhi''s head of ck hair and the Spirit Might emanating from his whole body,


    it was clear to them that Lin Shiming had taken the opportunity meant for the Huang Family and had killed dozens of their cultivators.


    Instantly livid with rage, Huangyun Qi''s face turned purple as he red at Lin Xianzhi, teeth clenched, wishing he could execute Lin Xianzhi on the spot!


    Lin Xianzhi did not look at Huangyun Qi first. Instead, he turned his gaze to a middle-aged man in blue robes standing behind Huangyun Qi.


    The middle-aged cultivator''s blue robes were particrly eye-catching, embroidered with various centipedes and poisonous insects.


    As Lin Xianzhi set his eyes on the other, the middle-aged man also looked towards Lin Xianzhi.


    Neither of them spoke, but their silence was filled with an even greater tension.


    For the first time, Lin Shiming saw his Seventh Great-Uncle''s hand trembling ever so slightly, as if holding an unparalleled sword!


    The identity of the person before them also dawned on Lin Shiming.


    From the Li Family, Li Chengzhi, a Poison Cultivator.


    At the same time, he held another identity.


    The man who gravely wounded Lin Xianzhi thirty years ago!

 Chapter 51: Chapter 51 Psychic Worm Gu

    In the bustling streets, many cultivators had stopped due to the standoff between the two, but even more chose to walk away, not wishing to invite trouble.


    The two stood defiantly, an eerie aura rising around them.


    Neither the Lin Family nor the Huang Family spoke a word, nor did they make a move.


    Only Huangyun Qi''s face turned tomato red, wanting to humiliate Lin Xianzhi but restraining himself due to the presence of the poison-bug-carrying blue-robed cultivator.


    The two had not shed inbat, yet the tension was even more perilous than if they had.


    Just then, divine sense suddenly emanated from the sky, and an even greater spiritual pressure descended, pressing down on everyone like the weight of Mount Tai, their legs shaking, as if they would kneel the very next moment.


    "Purple Mansion senior!" Lin Shiming instantly realized and, at the same time, his recognition of the Purple Mansion senior rose to a new level in his heart.


    Merely the distant spiritual pressure was unbearable to him.


    He knew this was the Purple Mansion senior exerting pressure on everyone and not targeting him specifically.


    "Settle your grievances outside the city!"


    A cold shout echoed in everyone''s minds.


    The Lin and Huang Families immediately ceased their hostility, apologizing repeatedly. The blue-robed middle-aged man, however, still appeared confident, as if he wasn''t the least bit afraid of the Purple Mansion hermit.


    "Please forgive us, senior. The Lin Family will leave immediately," Lin Xianzhi said and proceeded to lead Lin Shiming and the others away from the scene.


    He never once looked back at Huangyun Qi, nor did he respond to thetter''s words from beginning to end.


    Leaving only Huangyun Qi to re venomously at the departing Lin Xianzhi with furious eyes.


    "As a cultivator, how are you so easily provoked? You, Huangyun, seem to be regressing with age, no wonder the Huang Family has not flourished under your leadership," Li Chengzhi, the blue-robed middle-aged man, scorned after giving Huangyun Qi a disdainful nce.


    Strangely, his voice was extremely hoarse.


    "Li Daoist friend, let''s not forget who reduced the Lin Family from the status of the Purple Mansion Family, and it certainly wasn''t my Huang Family," Huangyun Qi said, evidently feeling discontented.


    "Rest easy, Lin Xianzhi''s strength has indeed grown considerably, but just now my spirit insect sensed him¡ªmerely at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, and I have also marked all of the Lin Family!"


    "It''sughable that he still tries to conceal his strength, but with my spirit insect present, who can hide their ipetence below the Purple Mansion?"


    The blue-robed middle-aged man slightly lifted his hand; if one looked closely at the ck robe''s sleeve, it wasn''t embroidered, but rather a tiny ck beetley quietly.


    ...


    Lin Xianzhi led the Lin Family members into an inn called Laiyue Tower.


    The inn was lively, with the first floorpletely packed; the spiritual cuisine on the tables was incredibly tempting and brimming with spiritual energy.


    Though people of cultivation often restrained their gastronomic desires, here, those desires were fully aroused.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but swallow.


    No wonder the business was so sessful.


    "Senior, do you have a reservation?" a Qi Cultivation fifthyer servant approached the Lin Family with a fawning smile.


    "No reservation. We need a private room on the second floor, and also prepare 8 rooms!" Lin Xianzhi said skilfully.


    "Right away, senior. Would you please follow me this way?" the Qi Cultivation servant said, bowing and gesturing.


    Then the Lin Family members went to the second floor, entered a private room, and ordered arge table of spiritual cuisine.


    The taste was delightful, and it was full of spiritual energy!


    It was a feast for all the senses!


    However, the price made both Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie purse their lips. This meal alone would cost four to five hundred Spirit Stones, and staying overnight was not cheap either, with each room costing ten Spirit Stones a night, a hundred for ten days, and for eight people that amounted to eight hundred Spirit Stones!


    "Laiyue Tower is a property of the Sect, ensuring high levels of safety and privacy! And it''s not much more expensive than other inns and taverns," Lin Houyuan exined to them, seeming to notice Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie''s expressions.


    Hearing this, Lin Shiming felt even more admiration for the Sect''s methods.


    With just one Foundation Establishment auction held by the Sect, it wasn''t just making a huge profit, but virtually slicing flesh from the various Foundation Establishment families with a knife!


    And yet, the various Foundation Establishment families had to ept this, which showcased the Sect''s confidence in its monopoly over Foundation Establishment Pills.


    After checking in, Lin Xianzhi didn''t impose any restrictions on everyone, but allowed the cultivators to go about their own business.


    However, at this moment, a system prompt appeared to Lin Shiming once again.


    "Please check your body thoroughly, you will find a lurking Ling Xuan insect!"


    Lin Shiming was shocked. He hadn''t expected the system to alert him to a Ling Xuan insect on his body, a creature he had never heard of and was unaware of its purpose.


    But a Spirit Insect on him was certainly not a good thing.


    Lin Shiming swept over his body with his Divine Sense, not missing an inch of his skin. However, to his surprise, he found virtually no foreign object, let alone a Spirit Insect.


    Once!


    Twice!


    Thrice!


    Lin Shiming scanned three times, and yet, to his rm, he found no foreign object!


    His heart felt incredibly heavy, the unknown panic far more terrifying than any visible danger.


    After failing to find anything on the fourth check, Lin Shiming didn''t dare to dy any longer and hurried to Lin Xianzhi''s room.


    After knocking, Lin Shiming saw Lin Xianzhi, who was meditating.


    Thetter was also bewildered upon seeing Lin Shiming so agitated.


    "Shiming, what''s the matter?"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, there''s something wrong with Shiming''s Spirit Beast!" Lin Shiming immediately med the anomaly on the Golden Winged Mantis, and released it on the spot.


    "This mantis has been sending me signals of danger while I feed it, and all the signs point to me!"


    "Come here!" The other also sensed that something was amiss, reminiscent of thirty years ago when he had inexplicably been ambushed by Li Chengzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi furrowed his brows, then a powerful Divine Sense gathered and began scanning over Lin Shiming inch by inch.


    Finally, on Lin Shiming''s Inner Armor, a tiny white spot was detected, so small it was almost invisible to the naked eye.


    "This is the cocoon of a Ling Xuan insect!" Lin Xianzhi said with a face full of fear.


    He then exined further to Lin Shiming.


    "You''ve been bugged by Li Chengzhi with a bug Gu. This Ling Xuan insect is extremely small and when it cocoons, if one''s Divine Sense is not as strong as his, it''s impossible to detect the insect. And as long as the Ling Xuan insect is on us, he can track our whereabouts at will!"


    Lin Shiming listened with a face full of fear. Li Chengzhi was indeed cunning, cing a bug Gu on him, the one with the weakest Qi Cultivation at the seventh level!


    If it weren''t for Lin Shiming''s prompt, he might have really fallen into Li Chengzhi''s trap.


    After all, who would have imagined that Li Chengzhi would not target Lin Xianzhi or the other Elders, but him!


    "Your Spirit Insect has made a great contribution again!" Lin Xianzhi remarked somewhat emotively, as if he could no longer fathom the limits of the Golden Winged Mantis.


    This was another of Lin Shiming''s considerations, that even if the Golden Winged Mantis attained the Third Rank as a Demonic Beast upon reaching Foundation Establishment, he wouldn''t need to exin too much.

 Chapter 52: Chapter 52: Ironwood Thorn

    "Nurture this Spirit Insect well, it might be of great help to you in the future!" Lin Xianzhi continued, offering his advice.


    Having said that, his brows furrowed again, and he spoke cautiously.


    "Don''t tell anyone about this. Pretend as if the Lingxi Insect doesn''t exist. That way, we can turn their calctions against them!"


    "Of course, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming nodded in agreement, knowing that with the Lingxi Insect on the Inner Armor, he would have a way to deal with it. He could simply release it from the Storage Bag when necessary.


    However, he wondered if it would die once ced in the Storage Bag, since living creatures could not be stored within it.


    But since Seventh Great-Uncle had instructed him, Lin Shiming naturally wouldn''t do such a thing.


    Upon leaving Seventh Great-Uncle''s room, Lin Shiming happened to meet Lin Shijie, who was on his way out.


    "Big Brother!"


    "Oh, Little Seven!" Lin Shijie also greeted Lin Shiming before continuing with a smile, "Little Seven, Qingxuan City is so prosperous and filled with treasures. How about we go for a stroll together?"


    "With an invitation from Big Brother, how could Shiming refuse?" Facing Lin Shijie''s invitation, Lin Shiming epted without a second thought.


    With the Lingxi Insect now by his side, he found it hard to settle down and cultivate. Going out for a stroll seemed much more appealing.


    Besides, aftering out from Qingyun Mountain, he indeed had considerable wealth. In these dangerous times, converting Spirit Stones into useful treasures was the most appropriate action.


    In Qingxuan City, with the oversight of the Purple Mansion Hermits, there was no fear of someone killing and plundering within the city.


    What made Lin Shiming somewhat helpless was that Lin Shijie actually dragged him to look at some Spirit Beast Eggs, asking for his advice.


    This was of course influenced by the extraordinary performance of the Golden Winged Mantis, which no doubt made Lin Shijie envious. Otherwise, his Big Brother had always believed in the philosophy that one sword could break all spells.


    As for giving advice to his Big Brother, he was willing, but the prompts from his system were not under his control.


    So, he could only smile wryly in agreement.


    The two of them arrived at the street market within Qingxuan City, much like before when Lin Shiming visited; however, the vendors were now uniformly Qi Cultivators at theter stages. You could find a Qi Cultivator at the intermediate stages only among tens of others.


    And those strolling around here were primarily offspring of the cultivator families.


    However, after walking around, they only found ordinary Demonic Beasts, and the more formidable ones had exorbitant prices. In the end, Lin Shijie spent twelve hundred Spirit Stones to purchase a superior grade Second Rank eagle-type Spirit Beast Egg from a specialized vendor selling such eggs.


    It was slightly inferior to the Golden Luan Eagle, but the price for this Demonic Beast could be considered reasonable. Lin Shiming nodded his approval. With two Spirit Roots and primarily focused on his own cultivation, his Big Brother was far wealthier than he.


    Moreover, it would give him a reason to ask the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, to refine more Beast Nurturing Pillster on.


    After buying the Spirit Beast Egg, the two took another turn around the market zone but did not find anything significant; they merely purchased a few superior grade Spirit Talismans.


    The brothers finally stopped in front of a shop called Duobao Tower.


    "Little Seven, shall we see what the shop has to offer?"


    "Mm-hmm!" Lin Shiming nodded, and the two walked in together.


    Duobao Tower had three floors. The first floor catered to Qi Cultivators, the second to Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and the third to Purple Mansion Cultivators.


    Of course, if you have enough Spirit Stones, you can show them off, and the shop will let you cross the Cultivation Level to enter the second floor.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie naturally stayed on the first floor.


    The treasures in Duobao Tower were indeed as numerous as its name suggests, a dazzling array of wonders.


    Just the counters on the first floor were divided into elixir counters, Spirit Talisman counters, heavenly materials and earthly treasures counters, Cultivation Technique counters, and Magic Artifact counters.


    Lin Shiming went to the heavenly materials and earthly treasures counter. The ordinary vine seeds from before weren''t very useful to him now, and although the Snake Vine Flower seeds were good, there were only ten in total, which could not be reproduced to increase their numbers.


    This was still the case each time after catalyzing them; they turned back into seeds like a Spiritual Artifact and could be used multiple times.


    Now that he had the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, if he fully catalyzed the heart of the heavenly wood, he would have more than enough capacity even after catalyzing the ten Snake Vine Flower seeds. Adding some Spirit Vine seeds would also enhance hisbat power.


    "Fellow Daoist, what do you need?" Surprisingly, the cultivator at this counter was a female.


    This female cultivator''s voice was exceedingly sweet and pleasant, and she was as beautiful as a lotus flower rising out of the water, her words and demeanor extremely elegant, clearly employed by the shop to stimte cultivators'' spending.


    "Do you have any catalyzable vine-type Spirit Seeds here?"


    "Of course we do!" The female cultivator spoke, then took three Jade Boxes from the counter behind her.


    Aside from the different number of Spirit Patterns, the surfaces of the Jade Boxes were nearly identical.


    The female cultivator opened the Jade Boxes one by one to reveal the seeds inside.


    "These are Second Rank Inferior Grade Green Snake Vine seeds, three hundred Spirit Stones for twenty seeds. The seeds can be nted normally and reproduced to increase in number, and the cycle isn''t long! Moreover, even against Qi Cultivators at thetter stages, they can cause a certain degree of trouble. This item is particrly favored by many wood-attribute cultivators!"


    "These are Second Rank Inferior Grade Purple Xuan Vine seeds, four hundred Spirit Stones for twenty seeds. The seeds can also be reproduced to increase in number.


    When used against an enemy, in addition to the vines themselves, they can release a purple mist that causes a Qi Cultivator''s Spiritual Energy to flow sluggishly if inhaled during chi cultivation at the intermediate stages, a real weapon in chaotic battles!"


    Hearing the introductions of these two, Lin Shiming wasn''t very satisfied. Dealing with intermediate-stage Qi Cultivators was quite inconsequential to him, and he intended to use the vine tactics against stronger cultivator enemies.


    Otherwise, for an ordinary intermediate-stage Qi Cultivator, he could take care of them with just one Snake Vine Flower seed, without going through so much trouble.


    "Fellow Daoist, since you are not satisfied with these, you might as well take a look at our shop''s best vine Spirit Seed, the Second Rank Superior Grade Ironwood Thorn seeds!" The female cultivator said, pointing to thest Jade Box.


    Thest Jade Box contained only ten seeds, the same amount as Lin Shiming''s Snake Vine Flower seeds.


    "Do not underestimate these Ironwood Thorn seeds, fellow Daoist. They can release thorns that can pierce through intermediate-grade Spirit Talismans, and if released inrge number, they can even pierce through superior-grade Spirit Talismans!" The female cultivator exined with visible excitement.


    "If it wasn''t for the fact that Spirit nts do not have a Supreme Grade, these Ironwood Thorns could have easily qualified for the title of ''Supreme''!"


    Lin Shiming finally showed interest upon hearing about the Ironwood Thorns.


    The Second Rank Superior Grade Ironwood Thorns weren''t inferior to his Snake Vine Flowers, and where the former was about entrapment and poison, the Ironwood Thorns were more about piercing attacks. Moreover, if a cultivator was unaware and first restrained, a sudden round of Ironwood Thorn piercings could yield unexpected gains.


    "Then how much for these Spirit Seeds?" Lin Shiming asked, quite satisfied with the Spirit Seeds.


    "Two thousand Spirit Stones for ten seeds, and they can also be naturally catalyzed and reproduced! If the fellow Daoist ends up catalyzing thousands of these Spirit Seeds, you could indeed im the title of being invincible among Qi Cultivators!"


    "But these seeds are not so easy to catalyze duringbat, and their speed is not particrly fast either!" Lin Shiming pinched a seed and frowned as he spoke.


    "A discerning customer like you must know, if these Spirit Seeds didn''t have this small w, their price would naturally be extraordinary," the female cultivator continued, replying with a polite smile.


    "Alright!" Lin Shiming finally took out the Spirit Stones and purchased them.

 Chapter 53: Chapter 53: Different Ways

    In Duobao Tower, after paying the Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming carefully covered the Ironwood Thorn again with a Jade Box, and then he walked towards the Spirit Pill counter where Lin Shijie was.


    Lin Shijie was in the process of buying Magic Artifacts and had already paid his Spirit Stones.


    It was a set of Superior Grade magic swords, four in total, which could form a small Sword Array that was quite powerful.


    Together with his Fire-returning Sword, his sword technique had improved by another level.


    One must know that finding a set of matching swords that could form a small Sword Array was not easy, especially Superior Grade ones. If used well, they could rival even the Supreme Grade magic swords. This showed the extraordinary nature of Duobao Tower.


    After obtaining their treasures, the two turned their attention to the Spirit Pill counter together.


    The female cultivator at the Spirit Pill counter greeted them both with a beaming smile.


    "What kind of elixirs are the two fellow Daoists interested in learning about?"


    "What do you have for advancing thetter stages of Qi Cultivation?" Lin Shiming was now in thetter stages of Qi Cultivation and needed elixirs to elerate his training ¨C as for healing, there was the family''s Monkey Wine, which meant he had no need for that kind.


    However, there was one thing he did not understand; it seemed that Lin Shijie was also intending to purchase elixirs.


    Lin Shijie was both a Dual Spirit Root genius of the Lin Family and the grandson of Lin Yuqi, the Second Elder and a Second Rank Superior Grade Alchemist. It was puzzling why he would becking cultivation elixirs.


    "Our store carries Green Spirit Pills and Consolidating Pills!"


    "The effect of the Green Spirit Pill is slightly weaker, but it is gentle and suitable for cultivators who have just entered thetter stages of Qi Cultivation. It costs 800 Spirit Stones for a bottle. The Consolidating Pill has a better effect and more abundant Spiritual Energy, which is more suitable for cultivators at the eighth and ninthyers of Qi Cultivation, priced at 1,200 per bottle!"


    The female cultivator took out two Jade Bottles and presented them to the two, introducing each in turn. She even opened the bottle caps for them to inspect the contents.


    In the end, Lin Shiming spent thest of his Spirit Stone savings to buy a bottle of Green Spirit Pills, while Lin Shijie purchased a bottle of Consolidating Pills.


    Upon leaving Duobao Tower, the two started heading back to Laiyue Tower.


    Most of their Spirit Stones had been spent, so it was meaningless to continue shopping.


    After returning to their lodgings, Lin Shijie began to ask Lin Shiming for advice on the secrets of hatching a Spirit Beast Egg.


    Lin Shiming shared everything he knew, exining the method of setting up a Nurturing Spirit Formation in particr detail.


    Before leaving, Lin Shiming looked at his big brother, who had taken good care of him since childhood.


    From that slender silhouette, he could faintly see the shadow of the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi.


    He couldn''t help thinking about the old man who had dedicated his life to alchemy and his desire to nurture a family of Alchemists.


    And one must know that Lin Shijie also had the Dual Spirit Root of fire and wood, which made him perfect for alchemy as well!


    The rumors of discord between the Second Elder and Lin Shijie within the family, as well as the scene of Lin Shijie buying elixirs, surfaced in his mind one by one.


    After hesitating for a long time, he finally asked Lin Shijie.


    "Big brother, why is it that you and Second Grandpa...?"


    Lin Shijie''s body noticeably stopped moving; then he turned his head, his gaze seemingly reying old memories.


    In the end, he shook his head and looked towards the endless blue sky outside the window before responding.


    "It must be our different paths, I suppose. He wants to prove that the family needs a Third Rank Alchemist, while I believe that the family needs a stronger power!"


    "You should also know that the family is in crisis."


    "If Qi Cultivation cannot save the family, then I will pursue Foundation Establishment!"


    "If Foundation Establishment cannot save the family, then I will achieve the Purple Mansion!"


    "The Purple Mansion can''t save the family!"


    "Then I''ll attain the Golden Core!"


    With these resounding, forceful words spoken, Lin Shijie left.


    Lin Shiming stood in ce and finally came to terms with it.


    To the family, both were not wrong.


    The family needed strong individuals and also needed a Third Rank Alchemist, or even a Fourth Rank Alchemist.


    Previously, he had thought there was a rift, so he feared that Second Grandpa Lin Yuqi would feel disheartened, after all, Lin Shijie was supposed to be his pride.


    Now that the matter was settled, Lin Shiming took out the ironwood bramble seeds. In Dubotang, he couldn''t experiment much.


    Now back in his own room at Laiyue Tower, he took out the seeds to carefully sense them in his hands.


    Half an hourter, Lin Shiming put away the ironwood bramble seeds satisfactorily.


    He estimated that by cultivating the seeds with the spiritual energy from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, which would normally take ten years to mature, he could shorten it to five years. By then, he could harvest the first batch of ironwood bramble seeds.


    Unfortunately, the ironwood bramble couldn''t be used against enemies for testing like the poisonous snake vine flower, as these seeds were different; they couldn''t be reimed, and once catalyzed, it destroyed the seed''s function, turning it into a waste seed as the spiritual energy dissipated.


    ounting for those meant for nting, he could catalyze only nine forbat use.


    Thinking of this, he was actually very interested in the structure of the snake vine flower seeds and the method of carving spirit formations on them, which had almost turned the seeds into semi-spiritual artifacts.


    However, after some thought, he gave up on the idea. Artifact refining, like alchemy, was profound and expansive, not something that could be mastered in a day. Even a dual spirit root genius like Lin Shitao would need to start learning about elixir theories and the path of alchemy from a young age, then practice repeatedly.


    And it would take up most of her time. If it wasn''t for her dual spirit root aptitude, it might even affect the optimal age for her Foundation Establishment.


    Lin Shiming''s thoughts were somewhat simr to those of Lin Shijie; once he achieved Foundation Establishment, or even Purple Mansion, his life span would increase, giving him ample time to learn and master alchemy and artifact refining.


    During the Qi Cultivation Stage, the family''s artifact refiners, alchemists, and array masters were sufficient to support his daily cultivation.


    He dared not gamble on spending a lot of time on craftsmanship, still being able to reach the peak of the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level before sixty, and having enough time to acquire a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, no longer dwelling on other matters, then he continued his routine of taking out the three spirit beasts from the spirit beast bag which were violently emotional, to feed them and administer beast nurturing pills.


    After handling that, hemenced his daily cultivation.


    Ten days quietly passed; Lin Shiming opened his eyes and felt the spiritual power within his body had improved from before, filling him with satisfaction.


    The Purple Wood Heart Sutra truly lived up to its name as a Profound Rank superior-grade cultivation technique; its effects were far beyond what the Qing Mu Art couldpare to.


    At that moment, a streak of spirit light flew out from the side,nding in Lin Shiming''s hand¡ªit was a Transmission Talisman.


    "Shiming, gather downstairs. We''re heading to the auction house!"


    Lin Shiming didn''t dy and swiftly made his way downstairs, where the other elders had already arrived.


    Lin Xianzhi then led the group towards the biggest auction house in Qingxuan City, the Qingxuan Auction House.


    Today was even more crowded than usual. Many loose cultivator powerhouses and Foundation Establishment families had also rushed to the auction house, making the normally rare sight of Foundation Establishment cultivators much moremon.


    With lifespans of two hundred and fifty years, most Foundation Establishment cultivators knew each other.


    Familiar family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators would nod and greet each other; opposing families, on the other hand, would exchange cold stares.


    The Lin Family also had several amiable families, but none were adjacent to the Lin Family. Having met now, they exchanged pleasantries and then proceeded together to the auction house.


    Finally, everyone stopped at a three-story hall built entirely of qinggang rock. The hall had a grand and majestic style, with lifelike decorations and carvings. Atop it, the five big characters for "Qingxuan Auction House" carried an inexplicable pressure of spirit.

 Chapter 54: Chapter 54: You come to the auction

    The Qingxuan auction hall was extremely spacious. At the very front, there was a gigantic blue stone tform, with a stone table covered in red silk on top.


    Arranged in order throughout the hall were thousands of seats. Those in the forefront naturally belonged to the Loose Cultivators and Qi Cultivation families.


    Further back was the area for the Foundation Establishment families, elevated half a meter higher than the Loose Cultivator''s area and separated by a special screen. The tables there were also adorned with some Spirit Fruits.


    Some Foundation Establishment Loose Cultivators were also seated in this area.


    The luxurious chambers on the second floor were reserved for the Purple Mansion Cultivators or the Purple Mansion families.


    This time, the Qingxuan auction was naturally not limited to Foundation Establishment Pills; there were also Fourth Rank treasures as the finale, attracting quite a number of Purple Mansion Cultivators.


    This was precisely why the Qingxuan auction was one of the most significant events within the Qingxuan Sect.


    The third-floor rooms were specially prepared for the Golden Core True Persons, but nearly all big events saw no Golden Core True Persons attending. Yet, even with their absence, the rooms remained reserved for them all the same, as a sign of respect for Golden Core True Persons.


    After a little less than half an hour, the hall was packed. Even though most cultivators restrained themselves, there were still whispers and quiet conversations, creating a somewhat noisy atmosphere.


    Lin Shiming sat at the back, easily observing the actions of some Loose Cultivators in front.


    To prevent identity leaks, many Loose Cultivators wore veils that blocked Divine Sense, and even some Qi Cultivation families and Foundation Establishment families who deemed themselves not powerful enough did the same.


    What caused the Lin Family members to frown slightly was that not far behind their screen was the Huang Family, with Huangyun Qi''s fierce eyes once again ring at Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi simply closed his eyes slightly, ignoring himpletely, which made Huangyun Qi''s face from the Huang Family even uglier, as his eyes nearly shot out mes.


    As ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, he would not lose his temper so easily, but with the potential demise of two of his family''ster-stage Foundation Establishment youths, as well as numerous upper echelon Qi Cultivators, and their Alchemist''s Illusionary Heart Grass being pilfered by the Lin Family, he couldn''t calm down at all.


    With the entrance of a Foundation Establishment elder d in a blue Taoist robe, the sharp bell tolled, and the scene immediately started to quiet down, signaling the official start of the auction:


    "I thank all Daoist friends and seniors for attending. This humble one is He Xuan, the auction house manager, responsible for today''s auction. The rules are the same as before: the highest bidder wins. If one''s Spirit Stones are insufficient, treasures are eptable as coteral, or can be auctioned on the spot!"


    His voice wasn''t particrly loud but was clearly enhanced by a spell, making it exceptionally audible to everyone.


    "I won''t say much more; we shall begin the auction directly!"


    "The first item of today is a Second Rank Supreme Grade Ice Silk Spirit Armor!"


    "There''s probably no need for me to borate on how precious Spirit Armor is. It can even defend against a blow from a Supreme Grade Spirit Sword, a true life-saving treasure for Qi Cultivators. The starting bid is three thousand Spirit Stones! Each bid increment shall not be less than one hundred Spirit Stones!"


    As He Xuan''s words concluded, the scene immediately became noisy. This initiation with a Second Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Armor had excited those Qi Cultivators at the pinnacle of their tiers, and even some Foundation Establishment cultivators showed great interest.


    A Second Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Armor was almost as valuable as a Third Rank Magic Artifact. Even if it wasn''t for personal use, a Foundation Establishment cultivator could provide it to their kin or descendants.


    With a Supreme Grade Spirit Armor, a Qi Cultivator had almost another level of assurance!


    Even the Lin Family, with Lin Xianzhi taking a brief nce, seemed to contemte making a bid.


    However, seeing the price skyrocket, he shook his head and gave up.


    "Four thousand Spirit Stones!"


    "Five thousand Spirit Stones!" The bidding voices rose one after the other, relentless and continuous!


    ...


    "Nine thousand!"


    Finally, at a price of nine thousand Spirit Stones, a Foundation Establishment family won the item, which was nearing the value range of a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact. Even a Third Rank Inferior Grade Magic Artifact would only cost around ten thousand Spirit Stones.


    The fierce selling of the first auction item indeed widened the eyes of many cultivators.


    He Xuan was clearly very satisfied with the auction of the first Magic Artifact. After gently stroking his white beard, he took out a Spirit Talisman from the case beside him, a talisman he had seen before, as Lin Shijie also had one.


    "Next up is a Second Rank Superior Grade Earth Escape Talisman! An almost essential item for treasure hunting, the starting bid is eight hundred Spirit Stones, with each increment no less than one hundred Spirit Stones!"


    The Lin Family possessed the Jade Slip for crafting the Earth Escape Talisman, so they chose to watch rather than bid on it this time. Eventually, the talisman went to a Loose Cultivator for seventeen hundred and eighty Spirit Stones.


    Of course, that price was somewhat inted, but after the stimulus of the Second Rank Supreme Grade defensive Magic Artifact, people began bidding without realizing they were driving up the price.


    Soon after, He Xuan brought out a Jade Box from a redwood tray that had been brought over.


    As soon as the Jade Box was opened, a deep purple Spirit Fruit was revealed.


    "A Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Fruit, the Purple me Fruit, a main ingredient for concocting Barrier-Breaking Pills. The family cultivators or alchemists present can bid on it to save themselves years of rigorous practice and aim for the pinnacle of Qi Cultivation before the age of sixty, with the hopes of Foundation Establishment!"


    "The starting bid for the Purple me Fruit is eight hundred Spirit Stones, with each increase no less than one hundred!"


    As the auction for the Purple me Fruit began, Lin Shiming clearly noticed Lin Shijie''s breathing bing rapid. With the Barrier-Breaking Pill made from the Purple me Fruit, his elder brother''s chances of achieving Foundation Establishment could greatly increase, even hoping to do so before the age of forty!


    How could he not be excited?


    "One thousand two hundred Spirit Stones!" Lin Xianzhi, obviously noting Lin Shijie''s condition, finally made a bid.


    And he directly added four hundred Spirit Stones.


    Almost simultaneously with Lin Xianzhi''s bid, Huangyun Qi of the Huang Family behind the screen also spoke up:


    "One thousand five hundred Spirit Stones!"


    "One thousand eight hundred Spirit Stones!" Lin Xianzhi once again announced his bid, which was also the maximum auction price for the Purple me Fruit.


    "Two thousand Spirit Stones!" However, Huangyun Qi continued to bid, and after finishing, he turned his head, apparently wanting to see Lin Xianzhi''s reaction.


    But he was obviously disappointed.


    Lin Xianzhi remained calm and casually raised his bid to two thousand five hundred Spirit Stones!


    "Two thousand six hundred!" Huangyun Qi bid again.


    This time, Lin Xianzhi simply chose to sit down in his chair, slightly closed his eyes, and did not make another bid. He never even nced at Huangyun Qi from beginning to end.


    In the end, the Purple me Fruit was won by Huangyun Qi, but his face showed not a hint of joy. Instead, it turned even more purple. He only felt that every Foundation Establishment cultivator present wasughing at him.


    As ate-stage Foundation Establishment great cultivator, Lin Xianzhi had the insolence to not even look at him¡ª the audacity was boundless!


    At the same time, Huangyun Qi realized he had also paid too much for the Purple me Fruit.


    After the Purple me Fruit was bought by the Huang Family, Lin Shijie was visibly disheartened. It was then that, to Lin Shiming''s surprise, Lin Xianzhi turned to him and said:


    "Shiming, you will handle the bidding for all the items toe!"


    "Remember to call out on every item!" Lin Shiming hadn''t reacted yet, only to hear Lin Xianzhi add that.

 Chapter 55: Chapter 55: Clashing Against Each Other

    In the Qingxuan auction hall, He Xuan''s face was brimming with a smile, quite satisfied as he observed the Lin Family and Huang Family locked inpetition.


    The more they vied against each other, the higher the auction hall''s earnings¡ªand his personal cut would be.


    As for bids not paid, he wasn''t worried; thest Purple Mansion Hermit who did so is still under the soil of the auction hall to this day.


    He Xuan pped his hands again, and onto the Spirit tform walked a female cultivator holding a tray.


    On the tray this time was a small leopard-type Spirit Beast.


    The Spirit Beast was covered in blue Spirit Patterns that resembled lightning bolts, but it seemed to be in poor spirits, with its eyes drooping and its limbs all locked by chains. A Forbidden God Talisman was also affixed to its body.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, this is the offspring of a Second Rank peak Lightning Leopard. With the right opportunity, it could very possibly evolve into a Third Rank Spirit Beast. The starting bid is 1,500 Spirit Stones, with minimum increments of 100 Spirit Stones!"


    He Xuan once again introduced the Lightning Leopard with a stirring description.


    The cultivators in the audience also had their eyes ze with eagerness, almost wishing to call out the highest bid and take it for themselves.


    However, everyone knew the rule of thumb: just listen to the first half of He Xuan''s words.


    "1,800 Spirit Stones!"


    "2,000 Spirit Stones!"


    ¡­


    The price of the Lightning Leopard shot up rapidly, and it was at this moment that Lin Shiming spoke:


    "4,000 Spirit Stones!"


    He directly called out a price nearly triple the base, instantly silencing all the Loose Cultivators.


    Everyone looked towards Lin Shiming, all trying to guess what kind of scion this was!


    Only a few from Foundation Establishment families who knew the Lin Family''s details were still observing. A Second Rank peak Lightning Leopard was definitely worth cultivating, but 4,000 was indeed too high¡ªafter all, nurturing a Spirit Beast would require even more resources!


    Lin Shiming paid no mind to the murmurs of other cultivators and looked straight at Huangyun Qi.


    His gaze was filled with amusement!


    His seventh great-uncle had told him to have fun, so he would indeed enjoy himself.


    Thetter''s face, full of wrinkles and made to look even older by threads of ck hair, flushed with rage, and his angry eyes began brimming with blood!


    ring in the direction of the Lin Family, he stood up abruptly, his veins bulging and entire body quivering.


    "Lin Xianzhi, you are bullying too much!"


    "It''s bad enough that you have no regard for others, but to let a greenhorne out too!"


    All Loose Cultivators and other attendees looked on, stunned that the Lin Family had sent the junior Lin Shiming to humiliate him, but what surprised them even more was the head of the Huang Family, unable to contain his fury.


    This was Qingxuan City''s auction house!


    Sure enough, no sooner had Huangyun Qi''s words fallen than an imposing voice resonated in everyone''s minds.


    "Silence, please. Bid normally!"


    Then, He Xuan''s Perfect Foundation Establishment cultivation level burst forth, with all the pressure targeting Huangyun Qi.


    Thetter''s expression changed drastically, and he mmed back into his seat.


    He forced a swallow as if a stifled surge of blood was churning inside him.


    Thankfully, he didn''t spit it out.


    "4,500 Spirit Stones!" The resentment on Huangyun Qi''s face deepened as he trembled with hate when he spoke.


    "5,000!" Lin Shiming, too, tried to mimic Lin Xianzhi''s tone of voice, sounding exceedingly nonchnt.


    But the more nonchnt he sounded, the less tranquil Huangyun Qi could be.


    "5,500 Spirit Stones!" Huangyun Qi made his angry bid.


    "Congrattions to the Huang Family elder on acquiring the Supreme Grade Spirit Beast!" Lin Shiming greeted with a congrattory fist salute, opposite to him.


    Then he sat down, casually taking a Spirit Fruit and eating it, his calm demeanor seemingly not the slightest bit inferior to Lin Xianzhi.


    The Huang Family has lost several thousand Spirit Stones again!


    The Lin Family Elders watching from the side were somewhat appreciative, especially the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, who knew the family had Beast Nurturing Pills that could speed up the Spirit Beasts'' growth.


    Shiming thought the price he offered was just right.


    Following that, the next two rounds of bidding for spiritual objects saw Lin Shiming making offers, only bidding twice each time! After making an offer, he would not bid again no matter the amount.


    The first bid was no longer the wild multiple increases of before, but almost an addition to the base price.


    Huang Yunqi also called a junior to follow the bidding, but his face still didn''t look good.


    After Lin Shiming''s second bid of two hundred Spirit Stones, the Huang Family suppressed the price again.


    Twice in session, the spiritual objects were once again seized by the Huang Family.


    By the time the third item came up, this time it was a Profound Soul Needle, a Supreme Grade assassination Magic Artifact.


    With a base price of three thousand, Lin Shiming immediately put forth an offer of three thousand five hundred, and the Huang Family provocatively matched it with four thousand Spirit Stones.


    But when Lin Shiming called out five thousand eight hundred, the Huang Family stopped following!


    The Profound Soul Needle was smoothly secured by the Lin Family, but the price was nearly the highest for a Supreme Grade assassination Magic Artifact.


    Lin Shiming didn''t continue to bid, instead wearing a somewhat worried expression as he looked toward Lin Xianzhi.


    "Seventh great-uncle, something''s not right..."


    "They''re just depleting our Spirit Stones!"


    "With the Li Family''s support, securing the Foundation Establishment Pills is going to be difficult!" Lin Shiming realized, and naturally, Lin Xianzhi saw it too, his face showing some concern.


    The situation they were most worried about had still urred.


    They indeed managed to annoy Huang Yunqi, but as the auction progressed, it turned out to be they who got annoyed.


    The Huang Family had the backing of the Purple Mansion Family; they were determinedly making things difficult for the Lin Family. No matter the amount, they would follow their bids, but once a certain expectation was reached, they would let the Lin Family buy it!


    The Huang Family could afford mistakes, but even one mistake from the Lin Family might mean that the Spirit Stones they had prepared would not suffice topete for the Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Moreover, the situation was even worse because unless the Lin Family was willing to pay high prices for some other Magic Artifacts and treasures, they could forget about taking home a single treasure at its normal auction price from this grand event!


    The Huang Family wasn''t foolish, and Lin Xianzhi always had a feeling that Huang Yunqi was acting somewhat exaggeratedly.


    Starting from the entrance of the city, it''s been rather overdone!


    Living for over two hundred years, would he really be so unable to resist provocation?


    "Stop bidding, let''s focus on the Foundation Establishment Pill!" In the end, Lin Xianzhi said, realizing that for the sake of the Foundation Establishment Pill, any good treasure in the interim was no longer within their reach.


    And even then, it''s not certain they would get the Foundation Establishment Pill!


    After selling over a dozen more items, although the Lin Family did not bid, it still broadened Lin Shiming''s horizons.


    The fair in Qingxuan City truly was magnificent, featuring rare top-quality assassination Magic Artifacts, Third Rank peak young Spirit Beasts, and various rare Spirit Talismans, and Spiritual Medicines.


    And these were only the treasures for the Qi Refinement Realm.


    As the auction reached its midpoint, the items offered had evolved to Third Rank Magic Artifacts, Third Rank Elixirs, and Third Rank natural Spiritual Objects.


    Those who started bidding were all from Foundation Establishment Hermit Cultivators and Foundation Establishment families, and even the Purple Mansion Family from the second floor began to participate.


    Several times Lin Xianzhi encountered items he needed, bid once or twice, but the Huang Family instantly followed, driving the price up to thirty or forty thousand Spirit Stones.


    The Lin Family could only give up.


    And at this moment, the Foundation Establishment Pills finally made their appearance.


    "Fellow daoists, we''ve now reached the segment you''ve all been most looking forward to¡ªthe Foundation Establishment Pills!"

 Chapter 56: Chapter 56: Anyway, It Was Picked Up

    As He Xuan pped his hands again, this time ten female cultivators stepped up, each holding a tray in their hands.


    Each female cultivator''s tray contained only a pure white jade elixir bottle, slightly translucent, allowing a glimpse of the golden elixir pills within.


    He Xuan took one of the elixir bottles and uncapped it, releasing a surge of pure spiritual energy instantly.


    Many cultivators'' divine senses hurriedly attached to it.


    Lin Shiming too was experiencing the Foundation Establishment Pill with his divine sense for the first time, feeling the unbelievably pure and enormous spiritual energy, which even carried a hint of cool chilliness.


    After a moment, He Xuan resealed the elixir bottle, ced it back on the tray, and spoke again:


    "Fellow Daoists, I regret to inform you all of a piece of news."


    "This year, there was a mishap in the Qingxuan Sect''s Yellow Grade Secret Realm, and the harvest of the Illusionary Heart Grass was not favorable, so the quota of Foundation Establishment Pills for these ten years has greatly decreasedpared to previous years!"


    "For this auction, there are only thirty Foundation Establishment Pills avable!"


    As He Xuan finished speaking, the loose cultivators in the crowd immediately started to discuss among themselves.


    Ten years ago, there were an entire hundred Foundation Establishment Pills!


    And now, there aren''t even one third of that number.


    Especially those Qi Cultivation peak loose cultivators and Qi Cultivation families were particrly critical, with the most vehement discussions.


    The Lin Family also felt a moment of rm, especially Lin Shiming, thinking that if he had just confronted the Huang Family, this trip for the Foundation Establishment Pills would undoubtedly have faced difficulty. They had only prepared a total of 130,000 Spirit Stones for this time.


    Even if the Lin Family''s old patriarch and elders were to contribute Spirit Stones, it would probably amount to only around 160,000 to 170,000 Spirit Stones.


    If they spent Spirit Stones in the auction earlier, they would most likely end up merely looking on helplessly.


    That Huangyun Qi from the Huang Family certainly had to be credited for his excellent acting skills!


    "Silence!" He Xuan shouted once more, suppressing themotion once again.


    "Although there are only thirty Foundation Establishment Pills, the quota for the cultivating families and loose cultivators this time will be proportionally increased. There are ten Foundation Establishment Pills for them, and the Purple Mansion Family''s quota forpeting for Foundation Establishment Pills is reduced to twenty!"


    "In addition, you must have felt that the treasures auctioned just now are far superior to those at thest grand event, and this time''s final auction item includes a Fourth Rank Spirit Boat magical treasure!"


    Following He Xuan''s words, although the cultivators still had their criticisms, they refrained from further discussion.


    Upstairs, the Purple Mansion Family didn''t seem to react much, as if they had known all along.


    In this moment, the most worried person was Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Hou Yuan.


    With the highest Contribution Points within the family, and his son Lin Shiming performing exceptionally well, the natural choice for using the Foundation Establishment Pill was Lin Hou Yuan.


    Facing thepetition for ten Foundation Establishment Pills from nearly a hundred Foundation Establishment families and Qi Cultivation loose cultivators in Yunzhou and Qingzhou, one could imagine the great difficulty involved.


    At this moment, it wasn''t just Lin Hou Yuan who was frowning in concern; Lin Xianzhi felt the same.


    The appearance of a magical Spirit Boat was not good news; a Fourth Rank Spirit Boat magical treasure also had another name: War Treasure Ship.


    There, He Xuan also began the auction for the Foundation Establishment Pills:


    "No need for further ado. The first batch of Foundation Establishment Pills, each sold separately, starting at a base price of 50,000 Spirit Stones, with each increase no less than 1,000!"


    With He Xuan''s words concluded, some cultivators who had been resting with eyes closed now all became active.


    Especially those wearing spirit-screening veils¡ªmost of these were loose cultivators, or those with weaker abilities.


    Fearing that they would be killed and robbed after purchasing Foundation Establishment Pills, they had been waiting for an opportunity.


    "91,000 Spirit Stones!"


    "93,000 Spirit Stones!"


    ¡­


    The starting price of the Foundation Establishment Pills shot up directly from 90,000 Spirit Stones, nearly doubling the starting bid, showing just how desperate the Qi Cultivation peak cultivators were.


    And to know, ten years ago at that grand event, the starting price for a Foundation Establishment Pill was only 30,000 Spirit Stones, and the final transaction price was around 100,000 Spirit Stones.


    This once-a-decade opportunity was also almost the only chance in the lives of these Loose Cultivators.


    Without a Foundation Establishment Pill, to forcefully attempt Foundation Establishment meant a nine in ten chance of death!


    In the face of this critical juncture, all considerations of face for Foundation Establishment ns were cast aside without a second thought.


    The final bid ended directly at 138,000 Spirit Stones!


    The Lin Family made a bid, but the Huang Family countered with a higher offer, so they did not continue bidding.


    It was obtained by a Foundation Establishment n from Qingzhou, which also had a business in Qingxuan City, hence they were extremely wealthy and powerful.


    "The second Foundation Establishment Pill, we continue with the starting bid of 50,000!" He Xuan spoke again.


    Once more, the Loose Cultivators and the various ns were red-eyed and necks bulging as they bid frantically.


    It was thought that the second pill might bring calmer bids, but the price was quoted directly at 150,000 Spirit Stones, and was simrly obtained by a cultivator from a Qingzhou n.


    As for the cultivators from Yunzhou ns, they became mere spectators.


    "Let''s get the next one!" Lin Xianzhi decisively made up his mind, no longer hesitating.


    If the auction continued like this, those red-eyed Loose Cultivators would surely drive the price to astronomical levels. Before, with thirty pills, it was manageable. With 100,000 Spirit Stones, one could definitely get a pill, the only worry being how to safely bring the Foundation Establishment Pill back.


    But now, with only ten pills, the prices were skyrocketing!


    "130,000 Spirit Stones!" As the third pill''s auction started, Lin Xianzhi straightaway bid the highest price the Lin Family was willing to offer!


    Instantly, this stunned many people, however, the old man Huangyun Qi from the Huang Family also stood up sharply, sweeping a nce at Lin Xianzhi before making his bid.


    "130,100 Spirit Stones!"


    After calling out the bid, he did not forget to give Lin Xianzhi another nce.


    It was a pity that this deliberate attempt to humiliate him waspletely ignored by Lin Xianzhi.


    "150,000 Spirit Stones!"


    "150,100 Spirit Stones!" Huangyun Qi once again added just a thousand Spirit Stones.


    "180,000!"


    "Good, congrattions to you!" Huangyun Qi did not continue bidding.


    At this moment, the Lin Family had made the highest bid for a Foundation Establishment Pill, causing a sensation throughout the venue.


    "Fellow He, I only have 130,000 Spirit Stones. Let''s auction and mortgage three Third Rank Foundation Establishment Magic Artifacts as well!"


    As he spoke, Lin Xianzhi waved his Storage Bag, and three Foundation Establishment Magic Artifacts instantly flew towards He Xuan.


    As the magic artifacts appeared, Huangyun Qi''s body jolted fiercely once again, his gaze fixed intently on Lin Xianzhi, almost wishing he could tear Lin Xianzhi to pieces right there and then!


    Those three Third Rank Magical Artifacts were precisely the relics of two Foundation Establishment Cultivators from the Huang Family.


    At this moment, with Lin Xianzhi tantly selling them off, it was more than just a p in the face; it was aplete disregard for the Huang Family.


    "Fellow Daoist, these three Third Rank Magical Artifacts are unremarkable, normally priced around 80,000 Spirit Stones, but as a mortgage now, they can only be valued at 64,000 Spirit Stones!" He Xuan paid no attention to Huangyun Qi.


    Of course, if Huangyun Qi did not know what was good for him, He Xuan would not mind making an example out of him!


    "Fine, being able to mortgage them for 50,000 Spirit Stones is good enough, after all, they were just picked up!" Lin Xianzhi spoke again, nearly causing Huangyun Qi to spit out a mouthful of old blood from rage.


    Lin Xianzhi handed over the remaining 116,000 Spirit Stones to He Xuan, then took the Foundation Establishment Pill and walked outside.


    The Lin Family naturally would not participate in the rest of the auction;peting for Purple Mansion Magical Treasures or Purple Mansion Spirit Pills and marvelous medicines, they could not match others.


    Almost at the same time as the Lin Family left, numerous cultivators also stealthily exited the scene, among them many from the Huang Family.


    And on the second floor of the rooms...

 Chapter 57: Chapter 57: The Cicada Sheds Its Shell

    After leaving the Qingxuan Auction House, Lin Xianzhi led everyone to quickly rush outside the city.


    The Spirit Boat ascended into the sky, transforming into an Escape Light, flying toward Fangmu Mountain in Yunzhou.


    Under normal circumstances, the Lin Family naturally would not fear the Huang Family, but with the Li Family also present, let''s not even talk about the Foundation Establishmenttter stages, the Li Family, as members of the Purple Mansion n, had no shortage of Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    And the Lin Family only had Lin Xianzhi himself.


    Better to take advantage of the present, while the attention of all cultivators was on the remaining Foundation Establishment Pills and, even more so, on the final, show-stopping Fourth Rank Spirit Boat Magical Treasure, and timely extricate themselves, returning to Fangmu Mountain.


    With the Formation there, there was no worry of attack from Purple Mansion cultivators.


    "Yushui, how are the preparations for that matter?" On the Spirit Boat, Lin Xianzhi''s face was solemn as he asked the Third Elder, Lin Yushui, who was beside him.


    "Seventh Uncle, everything is going smoothly!" Lin Yushui also turned back with a firm reply; at this moment, the expressions of the Lin Family members were doubtlessly serious.


    Lin Xianzhi, upon hearing this, nodded his head, his sword-like eyebrows then turning toward Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, take off your Spirit Armor!"


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate either, removing the spirit-tinged armor covered with the cocoon of a Spirit Insect, handing it over to Lin Xianzhi.


    With one hand, thetter received the Spirit Armor, while the other patted the Spirit Beast Bag at his waist.


    In front of him, a Second Rank peak Silver-Feathered Eagle suddenly appeared.


    The Silver-Feathered Eagle was immenselyrge, with a wingspan of five to six meters, and as it flew above the Spirit Boat, it almost covered half the sky.


    Its whole body, covered in silver fur, shined brilliantly, filled with extraordinary spirit.


    It seemed as if it had note out in a long while, because as soon as it did, it let out a long cry, venting its emotions, then circled and soared around Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi skillfully fitted the Spirit Armor onto the Silver-Feathered Eagle''s neck, then took out a shimmering Green Spirit Talisman.


    It was indeed a Third Rank Gale Talisman. Once the Third Rank Gale Talisman was pped onto it, it turned into a green rainbow attached to the Silver-Feathered Eagle''s feathers, making the eagle look even more dazzling and filled with exceptional spirit intelligence.


    "Please," Lin Xianzhi said reminiscently as he patted its wings, then took out a green lotus seed and deftly threw it into the eagle''s mouth.


    The Silver-Feathered Eagle swallowed the Green Lotus seed and then let out another long cry in response.


    As the cry ended, it flew off from the Spirit Boat, streaking forward, leaving a trail of mingled green and silver light behind.


    "We''re turning back!" With a pinch of the Spirit Art in his hands, the Spirit Boat immediately veered from north to east and sped away.


    On the Spirit Boat, Lin Xianzhi continued to stand at the very front, facing the wind, as always, letting the fierce winds buffet him without setting up a Spirit Shield.


    The only difference was that his previously white hair had turned ck.


    The other Elders began to meditate quietly on the Spirit Boat, maintaining their strongest battle strength at all times.


    Lin Shiming watched the open serenity of the various Elders and Lin Xianzhi, as well as their cautiousness.


    He then also found a corner and sat down to meditate.


    Somehow, the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, for the first time, had errors, and he just couldn''t calm his mind.


    In his mind, however, the farewell scene of the Silver-Feathered Eagle flying away surfaced.


    The Silver-Feathered Eagle was a Spirit Beast raised by Lin Xianzhi during his Qi Cultivation period, and now it had be bait.


    As a member of the family, he understood that, at critical moments, it wasn''t just the Silver-Feathered Eagle, even the Great Elder, Second Elder, Third Elder, and even Fifth Elder could be objects of sacrifice.


    It was just that he, who had raised a Spirit Beast and had feelings for it, was unwilling to ept this and needed time to adapt.


    Of course, if it had been his Golden Luan Eagle that needed to be sacrificed.


    He was certain, no matter how uneptable it might be, he would do the same.


    It was destiny and also a responsibility.


    Perhaps then, he too would stand in the gale, letting the cold wind twist and cut at him, until it blinded his eyes.


    ...


    Outside the gates of Qingxuan City, Huangyun Qi led a group of Huang Family cultivators, as well as several Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivators, led by Li Chengzhi.


    All converged at the forefront, with the blue-robed Li Chengzhi unfurling his sleeves.


    A pattern of a poisonous insect suddenly twitched, eerily transforming into a spirit rhinoceros beetle with two antennae.


    A hint of ruthlessness flickered across Li Chengzhi''s lips.


    "Damn it for dying the auction of the fourth-rank spirit boat!"


    He then pped his storage bag, and a third-rank spirit boat appeared in the sky.


    With a wave of his hand, the people from the Huang Family also jumped onto the spirit boat.


    Li Chengzhi''s spirit boat wasrger and emitted a thicker aura of spirit light. When spurred on, it soared like a soaring Lei Peng, with an imposing aura and astonishing speed!


    The spirit boat rose from outside the city gates and quickly pursued in the direction of Yunzhou.


    Following behind him, a group of eager Foundation Establishment cultivators from other families, originally wanting to take advantage of the chaos, gave up on the idea after Li Chengzhi appeared.


    They continued to lie in wait for other cultivators who had managed to buy Foundation Establishment Pills.


    For loose cultivators, even if they managed to purchase one, most would rent a cave dwelling in Qingxuan City to make their breakthrough.


    But for weak families with n industries, they would take their Foundation Establishment Pills home to break through.


    Otherwise, if the Foundation Establishment took a year or more, their family mountain might be taken by others.


    Of course, if a family had many Foundation Establishment cultivators, it wouldn''t be a problem.


    ...


    In a small mountain far outside Qingxuan City, Li Chengzhi flew past in his spirit boat, confident of victory.


    Even he wouldn''t notice such a spirit insect as a spirit rhinoceros beetle unless he scanned it with full force using his divine sense.


    Naturally, he didn''t believe that the Lin Family could detect it, let alone on a mere Qi Cultivation seventhyer junior.


    Furthermore, for cultivators, inner armor was something worn at all times.


    However, in the next moment, his expression suddenly froze.


    A surge of spiritual power burst forth.


    The speed of the spirit boat increased once more, and in the blink of an eye, it was not far behind the Silver Feather Eagle, whose protection from the spirit talisman had dissipated.


    With a gesture from Li Chengzhi, countless flying ants flew out from his hand,pletely surrounding the Silver Feather Eagle.


    Terrifyingly, these flying ants were impervious to des and fire.


    No matter how the Silver Feather Eagle struggled or pped its wings and cried out to the sky, it still couldn''t escape and fell to the ground, reduced to a skeleton.


    Also falling was the second-rank superior-grade spirit armor that Lin Houyuan had given to Lin Shiming.


    "Damn you, Lin Xianzhi!" Li Chengzhi violently controlled the flying ants, and like a locust gue, they consumed every nt, tree, and stone in their path.


    "Brother Li, is this the resolve you promised?" Seeing that his side had furiously chased for ten thousand li but hadn''t even caught a glimpse of Lin Xianzhi, how could Huangyun Qi not be furious?


    However, thetter''s expression suddenly turned cold, and he fiercely turned his head, locking Huangyun Qi with the coldest eyes he had seen in a hundred years.


    The fierce flying ants came at them again.


    Huangyun Qi shuddered in fear.


    "I hope this is thest time!" Li Chengzhi ultimately didn''t follow through with his action and instead waved his sleeve.


    The flying ants vanished, and Li Chengzhi turned around, leaving the Huang Family cultivators behind.


    He immediately steered the spirit boat towards Qingxuan City.


    And left the people of the Huang Family behind.


    The descendants of the Huang Family were all somewhat afraid to look into the eyes of their ancestral elder, for fear of being caught in the crossfire of Huangyun Qi''s rage.


    However, when they looked up, they saw a serene elder in yellow robes, who took out a Profound Soul Needle from his storage bag, identical to the one from the auction.


    It should be known that the Profound Soul Needle was supposed to be in the hands of the Lin Family.


    "Hmph, Li Family, just wait until my Huang Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators fill the skies and we devour the Lin Family''s spirit vein. Then, what can your Li Family do?"


    Behind Huangyun Qi, two elders who had been silent all along suddenly revealed the cultivation level of Foundation Establishment Stage.

 Chapter 58: 58 Cliff Predicament

    The border between Qingzhou and Yunzhou is marked by a sheer cliff.


    Atop this cliff, rocks jut out at odd angles, and no vegetation grows.


    The Lin Family''s Spirit Boat descended from the sky above.


    Lin Yushui was the first to touch down, and with a ferocious toss, she threw a Spirit Talisman into the ground.


    Immediately, countless specks of dust were kicked up, and a cloud of sand and dust filled the air in an instant.


    Then, under themand of another Spirit Art from her, the dust quietly vanished, clearly the result of a previously prepared Formation.


    Lin Xianzhi and the others also descended one after another.


    "Everyone, please sit and meditate for a moment to recover your Spiritual Energy," Lin Xianzhi instructed before taking the lead and seating himself. He then took out a sparkling Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone and began to restore his Spiritual Energy.


    Spirit Stones are ssified into four grades: Supreme, Superior, Intermediate, and Inferior, with each grade being a hundred times more potent than the one below it.


    However, because higher-grade Spirit Stones contain purer Spiritual Energy, one Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone often trades for more than 105 Inferior Grade Spirit Stones.


    To Lin Xianzhi at the Late Foundation Establishment stage, using Inferior Grade Spirit Stones for recovery was not only slow but also required time for purification before condensing it into True Yuan.


    An Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone was just right for him.


    At this moment, instead of meditating the rest of the group started to prepare their techniques with cautious expressions.


    This journey had been too smooth, unsettlingly so.


    Lin Shiming also began to infuse energy, setting up some seeds in advance.


    It was at this moment that Lin Xianzhi opened his eyes and gazed into the distance, announcing,


    "They''re here!"


    No sooner had the words been spoken than a golden beam of Spirit Light burst through the sky a mere dozen breathster. Upon closer inspection, it was a Third Rank Spirit Boat just like the one owned by the Lin Family.


    Astride the Spirit Boat, several figures dressed in yellow robes flew out, wielding Flying Swords, and they positioned themselves into a semicircle, indicating their intent to encircle the Lin Family and prevent escape.


    The leader among them was the white-templed Huangyun Qi.


    "Did you know I woulde?"


    Different from his feigned madness at the auction house, Huangyun Qi now appeared remarkablyposed, yet beneath his calm face was a hint of eagerness and excitement.


    That look in his eyes seemed identical to that of Zi Xuan Hermit''s when he regarded Lin Xianzhi ¡ª as if the Lin Family held something he considered essential to possess.


    This inexplicable feeling, whenbined with Huangyun Qi''s actions, seemed like the most usible exnation.


    Lin Shiming had not seen any members of the Li Family nor Li Chengzhi behind Huangyun Qi.


    However, precisely because of this, they needed to be even more vignt.


    A person as sly and cunning as Huangyun Qi would not act without assurance.


    This time, the Huang Family had brought a total of twelve people, but when Lin Shiming tried to sense their strength,


    he was shocked to discover that among them, there were three at Foundation Establishment and the remaining nine all at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation!


    Theirbat power was nearly twice that of the Lin Family''s, and almost the greatest force the Huang Family could muster following their losses at the Qingyun Mountain Range!


    If it were not for their seventh-generation ancestor''s foresight in arranging the Formation here and their strategic advantage, the situation would have been dire.


    The presence of two Foundation Establishment Cultivators was the most surprising to the Lin Family. They knew that the Foundation Establishment Pill could only be acquired at the ten-year Qingxuan event, and thest time the Huang Family purchased a Foundation Establishment Pill, it was for their Family Head, Huang Lishan, but the breakthrough attempt failed.


    As for the Li Family, they too fell short on Foundation Establishment Pills and could not have supplied the Huang Family.


    So the Foundation Establishment Pill they now faced...


    "Does your Huang Family possess the recipe for the Foundation Establishment Pill?"


    In an instant, the answer emerged, leaving everyone from the Lin Family utterly shocked.


    The Huang Family had plotted so meticulously, not only for revenge but also to ensure no one knew they had quietly taken back the Illusionary Heart Grass.


    Only then could it exin why the Huang Family had silently gained two Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    No one from the Huang Family answered.


    But no answer was the best answer of all.


    "Rise!" The first to act was Lin Yushui, who had been ready for some time. After taking a deep breath, she thrust a g toward the ground.


    Immediately, the yellow sand covering the entire cliffside burst into the air, and a series of yellow sandstorms erupted.


    The Huang Family members were shocked, not expecting the Lin Family to have prepared a formation in such a short time and now seeking to retreat.


    But they did not realize that the entire cliff was within the bounds of the formation.


    One after another, the sandstorm tornadoes struck, scattering the Huang Family Cultivators.


    This formation was not a Second Rank one but a Third Rank one!


    The Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation thatbined confinement and ughter!


    Lin Yushui, who was in control of the formation, stood by with a bottle of Superior Grade Monkey Wine and several Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones in her hands.


    The fierce winds were mainly directed at the two early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, excluding Huangyun Qi.


    Although the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation was strong, it was after all being controlled by a cultivator at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    For a time, the battle was at a stalemate, with neither side able to gain the upper hand.


    Meanwhile, the other four Elders of the Lin Family at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level quickly set up the same Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation that the Huang Family had previously deployed in the Qingyun Mountain range. This formation did not rely on intricate techniques but solely on thebined magical power of the cultivators.


    Lin Shijie was also within the formation.


    With his cultivation at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, it was naturally extremely taxing for him, but as a dual-Spirit Root genius with abundant spiritual power, he managed to hold on.


    "Yushui, focus the formation on holding back the two early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators. Yu Qi, Yu Zheng, and Hou Yuan, use the formation to engage the ne-stage Qi Cultivators. Shiming, provide support and reinforcement, but be very careful. I will assist you!"


    Themand from Lin Xianzhi came through, and then his Qinglian Sword behind him surged again, transforming into two to three Zhang in length!


    A ng of sword cry, the green light soared, and countless Qinglian Sword beams nketed the sky!


    "Today, I''ll test my sword on you, old Huang!" Lin Xianzhi bellowed, charging at Huangyun Qi first.


    "Presumptuous!" Huangyun Qi unleashed his spiritual power, a terrifying spiritual pressure emerging.


    As everyone''s expression darkened, they realized that Huangyun Qi''s cultivation had reached the pinnacle of thete Foundation Establishment stage and was on the verge of stepping into Foundation Establishment Perfection.


    This was far stronger than Huangyun Qi had previously shown!


    "This old man was indeed hiding his true abilities!" The entire Lin Family was profoundly shaken.


    Fortunately, Lin Xianzhi was a Sword Cultivator. With his exquisite swordsmanship and the firstyer of Sword Light Transformation''s Sword Intent, he managed not to fall too far behind Huangyun Qi.


    "Lin Xianzhi, you are indeed formidable, but can any of your family''s younger generationpare to you?"


    With a single-handed gesture, Huangyun Qi directed a set of eight superior third-rank Flying Swords shing towards Lin Xianzhi!


    Lin Xianzhi steered the Green Lotus Sword to meet them, but his brow was also deeply furrowed!


    Huangyun Qi was right. Despite the assistance of a third-rank formation, the cultivators at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level all had their shorings, let alone Lin Yushui, who certainly couldn''t hold out against the early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators of the Huang Family.


    Indeed, on the cliff, the yellow sandstorm tornadoes were mming the two Huang Family Foundation Establishment Cultivators, forcing them to endlessly flee and use their Flying Swords and various Spirit Talismans to defend!


    But the inevitable oue would be Lin Yushui being the first to falter, and at this moment, Lin Xianzhi was unable to fully suppress Huangyun Qi, let alone provide support.


    As for Lin Yuqi and the others'' Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation, it was also not something to be counted on, since the Huang Family Cultivators had simrly taken out formation gs, setting up another Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation, and they even had four Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators to spare to deal with Lin Shiming!

 Chapter 59: 59: Turning the Tide

    On the cliffside, the sky was filled with flying debris, and an endless sandstorm continued to rage.


    Seeing that the Huang Family''s Qi Cultivator of the Ninth Level was about to reach Lin Yushui,


    Lin Yuqi and the others, in their Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation, also stood ready, prepared to fight to the death against the cultivators of the Huang Family.


    It was at this moment that Lin Shiming''s hands fiercely formed a gesture.


    The activated Spirit Arts surged out one after another, a myriad of spirit lights burst forth, and the spirit might was shockingly incredible.


    It was hard for anyone to believe that this was the spiritual power emitted by a Qi Cultivator of the Seventh Level.


    However, before everyone could express their astonishment, the seeds that had been nted in advance all sprouted in an instant.


    Countless wooden vines surged towards the sky, dense and numerous, binding towards the cultivators of the Huang Family.


    "Ordinary wooden vines?" The people of the Huang Family, upon seeing ordinary wooden vines appear, were also astonished beyond belief.


    Then they scoffed, thinking that Lin Shiming was all show and no substance, and once again charged towards Lin Yushui.


    Numerous magic artifacts bombarded Lin Yushui, while the five people executing the Spirit Breaking Formation unleashed their Five Elements Spells with wild abandon.


    Various spells like the Golden Spear Technique, Fireball Technique, Earthen Spike Technique...


    These spells were basic, but within the Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation, and more so in the hands of a powerful Ninth Level Qi Cultivator, their might was extremely fierce!


    As for Lin Shiming''s wooden vines, they were burned to a crisp by a ze of fire,bined with the release of several Flying Swords.


    They no longer paid attention!


    The fire enhanced by the Spirit Breaking Formation burned with exceptional ferocity, thoroughly incinerating the vines in the sky.


    However, behind the wooden vines, suddenly huge Snake Vine Flowers sprang up, turning into towering trees in the blink of an eye.


    Having cultivated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, Lin Shiming''s activation speed was faster than before by who knows how much, and he was also powered by the Spiritual Energy provided by the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique.


    This time, all nine Snake Vine Flowers were activated at once, their target being the nine Qi Cultivators of the Huang Family.


    Thetter''splexions changed noticeably, not expecting Lin Shiming toe up with a vine they had never seen before, but fortunately, they had not underestimated him too much. Several Second Rank Superior Grade Flying Swords, along with a few Second Rank Supreme Grade Flying Swords,


    were all shed towards the giant vines of the deadly Snake Vine Flowers.


    Flying Swords were indeed extremely effective against Snake Vine Flowers, especially the Supreme Grade ones; five vines were directly cut in half and died prematurely.


    But the remaining four, due to their close proximity to the cultivators, three ensnared three isted Ninth Level Qi Cultivators.


    The remaining one also seemed about to bind someone when suddenly that cultivator pped his Storage Bag and out came a huge Iron Corpse to rece the cultivator in the grasp of the Snake Vine Flower.


    "Second Granduncle, attack!" Lin Shiming did not dare dy, transmitting his voice to Lin Yuqi and the others. Although he had not managed to ensnare all nine, he had been mentally prepared; ensnaring three was due to the Huang Family cultivators'' carelessness.


    But actually, there was no need for Lin Shiming to remind them¡ªLin Yuqi and the others had equally richbat experience and seized the opportunity instantly.


    The Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation''s spells were recklessly hurled at the three bound cultivators.


    Metal des, wooden vines, fireballs, ice spikes, earthen stingers!


    They swarmed towards those three bound cultivators.


    The three of them panicked instantly, pping down several defensive light shield Spirit Talismans and bringing out Spirit Shields one after another.


    However, it''s worth noting that the Snake Vine Flowers weren''t just for binding; the most important part was the Snake Vine Flower on top.


    Countless droplets of venom spat out from the mouths of the Snake Vine Flowers towards the light shields, and being so close, it quickly corroded arge number of Spirit Shields.


    The Spirit Shields also suffered a significant loss of spiritual energy!


    At that moment, the Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation''s spells all exploded on impact.


    Right there and then, two Ninth Level Qi Cultivators were blown to pieces.


    The only one left was the cultivator who had used corpse puppets to block all spells and narrowly escaped death earlier.


    However, before this person could catch a breath, Lin Shiming formed hand seals again, and countless tendrils rose up once more.


    "Be careful, back off, don''t get tied up!"


    The remaining cultivators of the Huang Family hurriedly shouted a warning. The Five Elements Spell Formation also rushed in, confronting the Lin Family''s battle formation head-on, but most of the flying swords still hovered around them, fearing that Lin Shiming wouldunch another binding attack followed by a concentrated barrage.


    To their disappointment, however, the wooden vines did not shoot towards them but turned into pieces of extremely hard ck Ironwood!


    The gigantic Ironwood looked ferocious, especially the razor-sharp thorns that flickered with lively cold light, exuding a daunting sharpness!


    "Be careful, that''s Ironwood Thorn!" A slightly plump cultivator inside the Five Elements Formation recognized it and hastily shouted to alert hispanions.


    But at this moment, it was clearly toote; the majority of their flying swords shed towards the Ironwood Thorns.


    However, they only produced the nging sounds of metal on metal; the Ironwood Thorns did not break.


    Next, under the surge of ck spirit light, countless spikes shot out, turning into a downpour of thorns that targeted the two remaining isted cultivators.


    Their flying swords clearly couldn''t be recalled in time, and there weren''t enough corpse puppets left for the first to use, so both had to take out their Spirit Shields and Spirit Talismans simultaneously.


    Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, in front of Lin Shiming, a red-haired monkey jumped out, and letting out a long howl to the sky, it lifted its arms high.


    Then, what appeared to be a small hill was thrown out.


    While the scene was somewhatical, the effect was that both could only feel an immense force smashing down as if a small mountain was pressing down on them with all its weight.


    Boom! The Spirit Shields of several cultivators were directly deflected, countless Iron Thorns prated in, piercing through most of their Spirit Shields and revealing the glowing Spirit Armor on their bodies.


    The two cultivators at thete stage of cultivation could hardly bear it, finding it hard to catch their breaths under the assault of a Qi Cultivator at the seventh level of cultivation.


    They couldn''t understand why Lin Shiming''s internal spiritual power wasn''t exhausted!


    But before they could find an answer, a golden light appeared, and two massive golden cleavers materialized in front of a cultivator.


    Then, a gush of fresh blood burst forth, and a head flew high into the air¡ªit was the Golden Winged Mantis that Lin Shiming had unleashed.


    Due to the incredible speed, the pair of golden wings even left behind a golden spirit light rainbow in its wake!


    The remaining cultivator was terrified and tried to flee on his Flying Sword, but his speed was greatly affected by being in the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation, especially since the most intense dust storms were focused on the two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Yet, a Five Elements Tower that shone with light flew out. The cultivator naturally knew it all too well and had even coveted it.


    But now, this tower became the very weapon that would execute him!


    In despair, countless Fireballs and Ice Spikes bombarded him, and another cultivator fell.


    Thus, out of the nine Qi Cultivators at the ninth level, only thest fiverades of the Five Elements Spell Formation were left.


    Lin Shiming took out a wine jug and guzzled down a bottle of Intermediate Grade Monkey Wine, recovering his spiritual power.


    Just now, he had recklessly used up three times his usual amount of spiritual power,pletely depleting the energy from the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique.


    Lin Shiming''s strength astonished everyone; he was like a weapon of chaos in the melee.


    The spiritual power of a seventh level Qi Cultivator seemingly almost matched that of a ninth level, overturning their understandingpletely.


    But at that moment, Lin Yuqi suddenly yelled out to Lin Shiming.


    "Go reinforce the Third Elder!"


    Lin Shiming looked towards where Lin Yushui was and saw countless Spirit Stones exploding, with Lin Yushui spewing blood from his mouth. Before him, two cultivators at the early stage of Foundation Establishment were continuously repelling the sandstorm of the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation.


    It was clear that Lin Yushui was unable to sustain his spiritual power, even with Superior Grade Monkey Wine to recover it and Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones at his disposal. After all, he was but a Qi Cultivator at the ninth level.


    He had fallen into a dire situation!

 Chapter 60: 60 Array within an Array

    Lin Shiming dared not dy, his hands forming seals once again.


    Vines grew wildly across the sky towards the Huang Family cultivators, surpassing the previous attempt in quantity, now truly resembling a sea of growth.


    The wooden vines, one batch after another, dense and unending, a portion burned only for more to grow in its ce, seemingly without limit.


    However, seeing no Snake Vine Flowers spring forth again, they ceased to pay attention.


    In their eyes, Lin Shiming must be running out of Spiritual Power and could only catalyze ordinary wooden vines now.


    The sand and storm of the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation blocked most of the Divine Sense, preventing observation from that sense as well.


    The Golden Winged Mantis and Red-haired Demon Monkey appeared on the battlefields of the two Five Element Spirit Breaking Formations, persistently causing a nuisance.


    Theirical stone-throwing act was nothing short of a humiliating provocation to the Huang Family cultivators.


    Yet this Red-haired Spirit Beast Monkey, who was quick and had a strong leaping ability, only knew how to throw stones from a distance, never engaging in closebat.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming had not appeared, his figure concealed by the vines and most of his Divine Sense blocked by the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation.


    For a moment, it seemed as though Lin Shiming hadpletely immersed himself in recovering Spiritual Energy.


    Naturally, this seemed reasonable because, in their view, a Qi Cultivation Seventh Level cultivator would indeed exhaust their Spiritual Energy faster.


    The two Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators from the Huang Family increased their attack pace as well.


    However, in a moment, the vines dispersed, and a Purple Spirit Sword appeared in the sky.


    A massive wave of Spiritual Power fluctuations instantly rmed everyone.


    It was Lin Shiming''s Spirit Talisman; he had been activating the talisman while the wooden vines blocked the view.


    "Second Grandpa, attack!" Although Lin Shiming was aware that his third grandmother Lin Yushui might not hold on, he still didn''tmand the talisman to attack the two Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators; that would be meaningless.


    If they couldn''t break through, it was useless!


    The key to breaking the formation now was whether they could kill all the opposing Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators and then support Lin Yushui.


    Thetter immediately understood and sent his Five Elements Spell towards the opponent''s Five Element Spirit Breaking Formation.


    The spells from the Huang Family at that moment all turned into Earth Wall Technique, Water Shield Technique, Golden Shield Technique, and Fire Shield Technique!


    They had but one thought: to hold on.


    Various spells instantly interwove, with dazzling light continuously emerging.


    And at that moment, Lin Shiming''s talisman-bearing Spirit Sword also shed forward, carrying a vast expanse of Sword Qi, chopping down fiercely.


    Boom!


    With a loud noise, the unstoppable Sword Qi brought destruction, and the Sword Light continued to sh horizontally, directly killing one of the cultivators.


    The Formation instantly shattered, and the Lin Family elders, including Lin Yuqi, began their second round of spell bombardment.


    In just a few breaths, all Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators were annihted.


    At this time, the Five Element Spirit Breaking Formation directly faced one of the Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators.


    "Kill Huang Lingling first; he''s the one who recently broke through," shouted Lin Yushui from behind, her originally calm face now reced by pallor and madness.


    Her hands were covered in the blood she hawked up, yet one Spirit Banner after another continued to unfurl in her grasp.


    She paired this with the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation''s stormy assault on the remaining cultivator, preventing them from aiding Huang Lingling.


    Lin Shiming once again directed his talisman-bearing Spirit Sword towards Huang Lingling.


    But even though thetter had only recently achieved Foundation Establishment, and despite the suppression of a Third Rank Formation,


    It was still somewhat difficult for Lin Shiming with his current strength to resist a Foundation Establishment cultivator by wielding a talisman.


    Fortunately, the incredible power of the Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation, assembled by Lin Yuqi and others, along with the pressure of the Deathly Winds Formation, managed to suppress Huang Lingling, who was at the initial stage of Foundation Establishment.


    He became anxious, continually bombarding the Five Elements Spirit Breaking Formation with a Third Rank Heavenly Sword, consecrated not long ago.


    But as his speed slowed, Lin Shiming''s talisman was already slicing over.


    The terrifying Sword Light deeply shocked him, while internally he furiously cursed Huang Lishan for losing a talisman earlier.


    "Licheng, only by joining forces do we stand a chance!" Huang Lingling pleaded unwillingly for help.


    The other person also nodded fiercely, swallowing an elixir, and in an instant, his True Yuan burst forth, even braving the storm as he charged towards Lin Shiming and the others.


    The terrifying Foundation Establishment Spirit Might weighed on Lin Yuqi and the others.


    It caused everyone from the Lin Family to frown, realizing they had underestimated the strength of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lin Shiming''s face also changed drastically, holding numerous Defense Talismans in his hand, and also an Earth Escape Talisman as ast resort for escape.


    Huang Lingling was overjoyed, as his Third Rank Flying Sword was also fiercely driven, transforming the countless True Yuan into intense Spirit Light, instantly erging the sword several times and shing towards Lin Yuqi.


    "Go!" Lin Yushui spat out another mouthful of blood, with her Spirit Art striking out again, creating countless deadly wind storms wildly swirling towards Huang Licheng, blocking his way forward.


    However, in the next moment, Huang Licheng let out a sinisterugh, turned his sword around, and shed towards Lin Yushui!


    This moment undoubtedly shocked everyone.


    Not a single person had expected that Huang Licheng would actually feign a blow one way and strike another.


    Even Huang Lingling had been deceived, abandoning his defense to choose a death-like full-force attack.


    The terrifying Spirit Might pressed down entirely on Lin Yushui, and the Spirit Art she had cast, being driven by a Formation, waspletely unable to be as responsive as her own cultivation, to control as she pleased.


    Huang Licheng with his full Foundation Establishment force arrived in front of Lin Yushui in the blink of an eye.


    But what puzzled Huang Licheng was that he didn''t see the panicked look in Lin Yushui''s eyes.


    On the contrary, it was resolute, determined, and cold!


    And even crazier!


    Suddenly, apletely different kind of Formation g appeared in Lin Yushui''s hand.


    Huang Licheng immediately felt unsettled, sensing something very wrong¡ªit was a formation within a formation!


    But he couldn''t figure it out, how could Lin Yushui, merely a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, deploy two Third Rank Formations, and how could a Second Rank Formation kill him?


    "Your Huang Family, merely a century-old minor n, how could you understand the heritage and spirit of our Lin Family?" Lin Yushui''s crazed gaze was filled with disdain.


    The Lin Family belonged to the Purple Mansion lineage, and even though it had fallen, it still had the legacy of the once Purple Mansion Family.


    Then she pressed the Formation g into the ground, sinking it deep beneath the surface!


    The Formation that appeared at this moment was a Fire Attribute Formation.


    The Formation was only of Second Rank Supreme Grade, but this Second Rank Supreme Grade Formation was neither a trapping nor a Killing Formation.


    It was a Self-Destructive Formation!


    Huang Licheng frantically retreated, but it was toote.


    The terrifying fire-red Spirit Light exploded, engulfing both Lin Yushui and Huang Licheng within it.


    The intact cliff face was directly sted apart, falling into the abyss.


    On the other side, Lin Yuqi and the others finally broke through Huang Lingling''s defense, with Lin Shiming''s Purple Mansion talisman striking down another person!


    This person was also a Foundation Establishment cultivator!


    Although he was just at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, he was still far stronger than any other cultivator from the Lin Family.


    After the attack, Lin Shiming copsed to the ground, having exhausted hisst bit of Spiritual Energy with that final sword strike.


    Lin Yuqi and the other four also heaved a great sigh of relief.


    The sessive fall of the Huang Family''s people also affected Huangyun Qi, who was fighting Lin Xianzhi; his face filled with grief, knowing the trend had turned and that the Lin Family would be the final victor.


    Ignoring Lin Xianzhi''s sword, he charged towards Lin Shiming.


    Seeking to strike down Lin Shiming with a single blow!


    His speed was incredibly fast, crossing an unknowable distance in the blink of an eye!


    The overwhelming pressure from ate-stage Foundation Establishment instantly weighed down on Lin Shiming, making it hard for him to even breathe.

 Chapter 61: 61 Formation Artifact Manual

    The shattered cliff face was bare now, the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation having dissipated.


    It revealed a wall pitted and pocked from the countless spells that had bombarded it.


    "Lin Xianzhi, if you do not cease, I will surely kill this child!" Huangyun Qi''s expression was cold, and he brandished a Third Rank Superior Grade magic sword that shone brilliantly, shing fiercely towards Lin Shiming.


    His divine sense locked on, unleashing the Third Rank magic artifact in a flying sh.


    "You dare!" Lin Xianzhi''s usually calm heart could no longer remain still at this moment!


    He too desperately urged on the Qinglian Sword in his hand, generating countless beams of Green Lotus Sword Qi, pressing forward with powerful Sword Intent, leaving nothing in reserve, crushing the opposition.


    The blue light of the Green Lotus Sword shot out in an instant, even faster than the flying sword, knocking Huangyun Qi''s magic sword aside.


    Huangyun Qi, failing to strike, was not angry but instead pleased, for it meant Lin Xianzhi truly cared.


    He then transformed his true yuan into a palm strike, reaching out to grasp Lin Shiming.


    But against his expectations, the true yuan palm strike resounded with a boom, hitting the ground instead.


    Where Lin Shiming had stood, there was no trace left except for the fluctuations of spiritual energy from an Earth Escape Talisman.


    With the dissolution of the Five Extreme Deathly Winds Formation, the Earth Escape Talisman naturally became usable. Only a hundred meters away did the figure of Lin Shiming appear, gasping for breath.


    With his blow missing the mark, Huangyun Qi''s face looked extremely ugly.


    However, what was most fatal at this moment was that Lin Xianzhi in the distance had alreadyunched the Green Lotus Sword.


    A sword light dozens of yards long fell, and under Huangyun Qi''s great shock, he barely had time to bring his sword in defense horizontally.


    With a crisp sound, he was overwhelmed by the sword light.


    With that, Huangyun Qi fell!


    Not a single cultivator from the Huang Family survived, the Lin Family emerged triumphant.


    Yet not one person could muster any joy.


    All eyes were on the half-ledge that fell away, as if the third elder who had always been silent and selflesslymitted was still there, merely concealed by the formation.


    "Gather the spoils of war, we''re returning to Fangmu Mountain!" Lin Xianzhi''s somber voice carried forth, and he threw out the Spirit Boat, flying once more towards Yunzhou.


    Fearing that Huangyun Qi might have left some tricks behind, no one suggested to sit and recover their energy.


    On the Spirit Boat, Lin Shiming too silently gazed at the sea of clouds, then at Lin Xianzhi who sat alone at the front of the Spirit Boat.


    The figure of thetter in front of the Spirit Boat appeared so transcendent, or perhaps, so solitary.


    Next to him, Second Grandfather Lin Yunqi was still in his usual spot, his gaze fixed on the spot where Lin Yushui had stood before.


    Lin Shiming also couldn''t help but feel some sadness.


    Peach Blossom Valley, the range of Qingyun Mountain, and the Ridge of Cliffs, one after another, elders departed.


    But likewise, this is the path of immortal cultivation.


    Treacherous and dangerous!


    On the path of defying the heavens in pursuit of the Dao, one will ultimately, like the great-great-great-uncle, continue alone. There are few who can apany you to the very end.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming once again felt the significance of the family seemed to growrger.


    The bond of blood, thepanionship in following the Great Dao.


    At the same time, the lineage of the family continues.


    There are no evergreens in the world, old leaves will always be broken by the wind, but the broken dry leaves will turn into soil, nurturing more buds, and these young leaves will grow stronger, more vibrant.


    Qi Cultivation families raise Foundation Establishment cultivators, Foundation Establishment families raise Purple Mansion cultivators, Purple Mansion families raise Golden Core cultivators; this is the cycle of a cultivator family...


    It was three days after returning to Fangmu Mountain. On the Spirit Boat, people like Lin Shiming were recovering well, but Lin Xianzhi, who piloted the Spirit Boat, still had severe injuries and was now in closed-door cultivation at the Lotus Pool.


    In addition to that, Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Houyuan, also announced that he would enter closed-door cultivation at the Lotus Pool to heal and to prepare for his breakthrough to Foundation Establishment.


    All affairs of the family would be managed by Lin Yuqi in the meantime.


    Lin Shiming, for the time being, found himself without any pressing matters. In the battle that day, he contributed greatly and ended up with Huang Lingling''s Storage Bag, a Foundation Establishment Cultivator. As for Huang Licheng''s Storage Bag, it waspletely destroyed in the explosion.


    The remaining five cultivators each received two Storage Bags from Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators. The extra one, along with Lin Yushui''s formation g relic, was given to her son, Lin Houshou.


    Now that he was back in the family, he finally had the opportunity to inspect his spoils.


    He was indeed very much looking forward to examining the Foundation Establishment Cultivator''s Storage Bag.


    After erasing Huang Lingling''s remaining Divine Sense, Lin Shiming''s own Divine Sense entered the Storage Bag.


    Huang Lingling''s Storage Bag was farrger than Lin Shiming''s, with the entire space equivalent to a big room.


    Inside, there were several wooden racks; one of them disyed Jade Slips, while the one next to it held Magic Artifacts and Spirit Talismans, and at the very end was a wooden rack with boxes of Spirit Stones and some Spirit Pills.


    The first thing he checked were the Jade Slips, not only because they could be copied, but also because they could be turned over to the family in exchange for a good number of Contribution Points.


    As he examined each Jade Slip, Lin Shiming was pleasantly surprised to discover that Huang Lingling was actually a Third Rank Inferior Grade Artifact Refiner.


    The first Jade Slip was Huang Lingling''s own notes on Artifact Refining, detailing his insights and notes from beginner to Third Rank Artifact Refiner. It was especially thorough.


    Lin Shiming was quite satisfied with this as it was an excellent learning resource both for the family and for his own future studies in Artifact Refining.


    It was not to be taken for granted, knowing that the Lin Family only had a Second Rank Supreme Grade Artifact Refiner, and no Third Rank Artifact Refiner up to this point.


    However, when he saw the second Jade Slip, Lin Shiming was taken aback. The slip was titled "Formation Artifact Manual."


    It detailed how to use formations to enhance the level of Artifact Refining.


    It could even enable a Second Rank Supreme Grade Artifact Refiner to craft Third Rank Magic Artifacts!


    This was unheard of before now.


    The "Formation Artifact Manual" was extremely important to the Lin Family and, after some research, its theories could potentially be applied to Alchemy as well.


    If that were the case, the appearance of a Third Rank Alchemist and a Third Rank Artifact Refiner in the Lin Family wouldn''t be far off!


    This was extremely significant for the Lin Family and could even be considered on par with the effect of the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Lin Shiming suppressed the excitement in his heart and continued to review the Jade Slips. The subsequent Jade Slips turned out to be quite ordinary, including cultivation misceny, maps, and some secrets of the Huang Family.


    The majority were manuals for crafting standard Magic Artifacts.


    Lin Shiming then skipped over the Jade Slips and started examining the Magic Artifacts.


    The most notable was undoubtedly the Third Rank Inferior Grade Flying Sword, which could fetch tens of thousands of Spirit Stones at an auction.


    Of course, he had a better use for it: for his father.


    Once his father broke through to Foundation Establishment, he would naturally need a Third Rank Magic Artifact. Given the Foundation Establishment Pill and the Contribution Points he had saved, he already owed the family seventy to eighty thousand Contribution Points.


    He was much poorer than Lin Shiming.


    Besides the Third Rank Flying Sword, there were Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, including a Supreme Grade Flying Sword and a Supreme Grade defensive shield.


    To Lin Shiming, these items weren''t particrly enticing, as he already had the Green Sky Sword and the Thick Earth Shield. Nevertheless, both items were valuable, at least worth five or six thousand Spirit Stones each.


    He hadn''t seen the expected Third Rank Spirit Talisman. Presumably, it was used during the battle, and as for the Spirit Stones and Spirit Pills, they were even more disappointing to Lin Shiming.


    The fortune was even less than his own.


    Just over two thousand Spirit Stones and the elixirs were all for healing, none surpassing Second Rank Superior Grade.


    It was practically the poorest a Foundation Establishment Cultivator could be.

 Chapter 62: 62: Purple Mansion Cave Mansion

    At the Qinglian Pool at Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming returned, apanied by Lin Shijie as well as all the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elders, except for Lin Houyuan.


    These were indeed the upper echelons of the Lin Family.


    Lin Houyong and Lin Houshou, as newly advanced Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, held the positions of the Seventh Elder and Eighth Elder, respectively.


    Lin Shiming, in front of a group of elders, respectfully greeted each of them.


    Compared to his usual casual and carefree demeanor, Lin Houshou was far more restrained than before, giving a slight nod when Lin Shiming addressed him as Second Uncle.


    The chessboard in the pavilion remained, the white pieces still on the brink of death without the turnaround he had anticipated.


    The crisis still loomed; the Li Family from Purple Mansion posed a constant threat to the Lin Family!


    "Great-grandfather, I think we should go to the Huang Family and take back their Spirit Vein and treasures," Lin Shijie suggested to Lin Yuqi, as Lin Xianzhi hadn''t yet arrived.


    He had discussed his thoughts with Lin Shiming on the way there, noting that the Huang Family''s Foundation Establishment Cultivators and the high-level elders of Qi Cultivation Ninth Level were nearly annihted.


    Now was the best time to go to Huangyun Mountain to seize the treasures and take control of their Spirit Vein. Although it would not greatly enhance the Spirit Vein of Fangmu Mountain, the more concentrated the Spiritual Energy, the better.


    Lin Shiming affirmed his older brother''s words, but he was also clearer on the situation.


    Since Lin Xianzhi hadn''t rushed to the Huang Family initially, he probably saw something in Huangyun Qi''s Storage Bag that gave him pause.


    The actions of the Huang Family behind Li Chengzhi of the Li Family, must indicate that something had happened.


    "We don''t need to go to the Huang Family, the Li Family has long since sent Foundation Establishment Cultivators to help defend," Lin Xianzhi arrived and addressed Lin Shijie''s queries.


    "Huangyun Qi already took out most of the Huang Family''s assets, along with various Secret Techniques, Spirit Stones, and even Spirit Arts!"


    "And there is a Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree!"


    ...


    As Lin Xianzhi slowly exined, Lin Shiming also understood why the Huang Family had taken such action; probably the Foundation Establishment Cultivators of the Li Family took the opportunity to defend Huangyun Mountain when the Huang Family was seeking help.


    One must know that the Huang Family was an extremely wealthy Foundation Establishment family; this wasn''t much for the Purple Mansion Family, but for the Purple Mansion Family''s Foundation Establishment Cultivators, it was still a huge piece of flesh.


    "Seventh Great Uncle! I found this in Huang Lingling''s Storage Bag!" After pondering for a while, Lin Shiming stepped forward and took out the Formation Artifact Manual jade slip and handed it to Lin Xianzhi.


    But he did not say what the jade slip detailed.


    The utilization of formations to enhance Artifact Refining and even Alchemy levels was too shocking and unconventional.


    Whether to inform everyone was a decision for the old patriarch to make.


    "Oh?" Lin Xianzhi appeared visibly surprised as he received the jade slip, and in the next moment,


    Lin Shiming distinctly saw a change in his expression, seemingly equally amazed.


    He then eximed three praises in a row:


    "Good, good, good!"


    "Shiming, you have made another great contribution. For this, the family will award you another ten thousand Contribution Points!" Lin Xianzhi praised as he spoke, then with a joyful expression turned to the others.


    "I''ve called everyone here today to announce two matters! First, the family has found the Heavenly Spirit Fruit, and all three main ingredients for the Foundation Establishment Pill have been gathered. Any family member who has given sufficient contributions, and is under the age of sixty, can apply for a Foundation Establishment Pill with sixty thousand Contribution Points!"


    After dering this first matter, everyone from the Lin Family was profoundly shaken, struggling to believe it, especially Lin Houyong.


    He was fifty-seven years old, and in three more years he would be over sixty.


    If nothing unexpected happened, he would be like these elderly "Hou"-titled elders, forever losing hope in his cultivation path, with his Dao heart permanently sealed.


    Every time he thought about this, an unbearable torment would rise within him, giving birth to a rebellious thought.


    To leave the Lin Family and use thest three years to search for opportunities.


    In this moment, upon hearing Lin Xianzhi''s words, he felt an unreal sensation.


    He silently recited the Clear Mind Mantra countless times in his heart before he finally managed to suppress his excitement and calm down.


    Of course, for the others, this also held extraordinary significance, as Contribution Points could be passed on to descendants, just like Lin Yuqi could transfer his points to Lin Shijie.


    Of course, as a dual Spirit Root genius, Lin Shijie also received other preferential family policies.


    But for other family cultivators, it was doubtlessly great news.


    This meant that within the next few decades, the Lin Family might see the rise of a third or even a fourth Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The n members wouldn''t have to worry about having enough talent but still failing to break through to Foundation Establishment.


    Thest concern was merely whether there would be enough Foundation Establishment Pills, but for these elders, having any was already a cause for celebration.


    "The second matter, the Huang Family is gone, but going forward, our family faces the Purple Mansion Family''s Li Family. Therefore, we need to increase our efforts to explore the Qingyun Mountain Range; it''s better to take a chance on the opportunities provided by the mountain range than to be cornered by the Li Family,"


    "Currently, with my master Zi Xuan Hermit around, the Li Family won''t deploy any Purple Mansion cultivators,"


    Lin Xianzhi made a point of ncing at Lin Shiming a couple more times as he spoke these words.


    Indeed, the family''s transformation was greatly rted to Lin Shiming.


    It was precisely opportunities like Peach Blossom Valley and the Qingyun Mountain Range that allowed the family to significantly improve its finances, its pool of heavenly treasures, and its overall strength.


    Cultivators not only needed to keep to themselves, but they also needed to apply their learning, require powerfulbat capabilities, in order to truly embark on an extraordinary path of immortality and longevity.


    All the Lin Family members nodded in agreement; they naturally had no objections to this.


    "Very well, now for the third matter, Yu Qi and Yu Tie, as the Alchemist and Artifact Refining elders, you should increase the training of alchemists and artifact refiners.


    The production of Spirit Water from our family''s Qinglian Pool has increased, and the seeds of the Green Lotus will also be a substantial and stable ie, so there is no need to worry about losses in alchemy and artifact refining!"


    "Moreover, increase the remuneration for the family''s alchemists and artifact refiners by fifty percent," Lin Xianzhi added to Yu Qi and Yu Tie.


    Upon hearing this, all the Lin Family elders were somewhat surprised; training an alchemist required the consumption of numerous heavenly materials and earthly treasures. By increasing their remuneration, this would undoubtedly encourage family members to gravitate towards alchemy and artifact refining.


    Lin Shiming, however, understood that with the Formation Artifact Manual, if managed well, the Lin Family could gain several Third Rank artifact refiners and alchemists.


    This was the fundamental improvement the Lin Family needed to make in its journey from a Foundation Establishment family to a Purple Mansion family.


    Finally, Lin Xianzhi distributed a Second Rank supreme grade magic artifact and a thousand Spirit Stones to each member of the Qingxuan City expedition, treasures obtained from Huangyun Qi''s Storage Bag.


    The Third Rank items were kept by Lin Xianzhi, while the bulk of the remaining cultivation techniques and spiritual materials were deposited in the family''s Treasure Pavilion.


    Once all matters were dealt with, Lin Xianzhi gestured to end the meeting, but at the same time, he asked Lin Shiming and Lin Yuqing to stay behind.


    Lin Shiming was naturally puzzled about why the Seventh Elder asked him to stay; he wondered whether it was about the Jade Slip or the matter with the Huang Family.


    But in the next moment, Lin Xianzhi revealed something that greatly shocked Lin Shiming.


    "I''ve examined the Huang Family''s Jade Slip and discovered that they had located the legacy cave mansion of a Purple Mansion cultivator, which the Huang Family had already fully explored,"

 Chapter 63: 63: Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree

    Beside the Qinglian Pool, Lin Shiming and Lin Yuqing both had faces full of shock.


    The news brought by Lin Xianzhi was too shocking, and it also made them instinctively worry about the family''s situation.


    It turned out that the reason the Huang Family had five Foundation Establishment cultivators was that they had discovered an ancient inheritance cave mansion of a Purple Mansion cultivator in a secret location within the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    Inside the inheritance cave mansion, the Huang Family had found a Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, numerous second and third rank spirit treasures, a detailed Formation Artifact Manual, and the form for Foundation Establishment Pills.


    It was with thetter that the Huang Family gained two additional Foundation Establishment cultivators, but since they had run out of Illusionary Heart Grass and they couldn''t tantly gather more for fear of leaking the existence of their Foundation Establishment Pill form.


    That''s why they expended great effort searching in the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    They indeed found Illusionary Heart Grass, and unexpectedly stumbled upon an inferior grade third rank Spirit Vein.


    It was almost the entire might of the Huang Family that attacked the Earth-Rending Bears; if it were not for Lin Shiming''s early warning, which resulted in calling Lin Xianzhi over, the Huang Family might have truly seeded that time.


    Of course, luckily, the Huang Family didn''t obtain the most core cultivation techniques and treasures from the Purple Mansion inheritance cave mansion.


    All of it was blocked by a powerful Fourth Rank Formation. Even though the Formation was uncontrolled, it was still of the Fourth Rank.


    At least six Foundation Establishment cultivators were needed to break through it.


    The Huang Family was desperate precisely because they only had five Foundation Establishment cultivators, which is why they were so eager, and held deep-seated hatred towards the Lin Family.


    Meanwhile, in Qingxuan City, in order to obtain the Illusionary Heart Grass, they were also wary of the Li Family, opting not to let Li Chengzhi join them.


    Otherwise, with the Huang Family''s strength plus Li Chengzhi, it might have been the day that the Lin Family could only have stood a sliver of a chance to escape with a few people by relying on a Formation''s self-destruction and Lin Xianzhi covering their rear.


    Of course, this was not only because of Huangyun Qi''s arrogance but also his wariness towards the Li Family.


    Why had there been no other Purple Mansion cultivators in Yunzhou for so many years besides the Li Family? In others'' eyes, it was merely ack of the Purple Mansion Family''s fortune.


    However, Foundation Establishment families like the Huang and Lin Families knew that the better their development, the more they couldn''t avoid being targeted by the Li Family.


    The Lin Family''s decline from the status of a Purple Mansion Family was really due to the saying that even a powerful dragon cannot suppress the local snake.


    If it weren''t for the Qingxuan Sect''s involvement, the Lin Family might have been annexed by the Li Family long ago.


    "As for the inheritance cave mansion, I''ve already taken Hou Shou there once in these past days, and we''ve confirmed its authenticity. So, moving forward, the family just needs to proceed steadily, and when we have six Foundation Establishment cultivators, we can experience a great leap forward!" Lin Xianzhi said this with a glint of bright light in his eyes.


    This was an authentic Purple Mansion inheritance cave mansion, and if they could obtain it, the Lin Family might really produce another Purple Mansion cultivator and then regain their status as a Purple Mansion Family!


    At this moment, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but feel proud for his family, but at the same time, he thought of a potential crisis.


    The Huang Family had not been exterminated, so there must still be people within it who knew the secret.


    If the news about the Purple Mansion cave mansion got out, it was feared that the Purple Mansion cultivators from Qingxuan Sect woulde to im a share, and by then, there would be no ce for the Lin Family.


    "Seventh Granduncle, are there still any insiders in the Huang Family?" Lin Shiming asked, somewhat worried.


    Unexpectedly, the other party waved his hand, and at this point, Lin Yuqing finally spoke up.


    "Seventh Uncle, about the Li Family that you asked me to investigate, I have done so. The Huang Family''s Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elder only has one person left, Huang Lih¨¦, and he has already fled Huangyun Mountain!"


    Lin Shiming was initially puzzled upon hearing this, but then he remembered that Huangyun Qi of the Huang Family had already taken out arge number of treasures, and he immediately understood.


    The only remaining cultivator of the Huang Family, fearing retaliation from the Li Family and probably also the one who fled with the descendants of the Huang Family who truly had potential.


    This event urred when the Lin Family went to Qingxuan City. The Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, also took Lin Shitao, Lin Shizhong, and some other promising juniors to take refuge in a ce rarely known by the members of the Lin Family, all out of fear that the old family head would not return and that another formidable enemy woulde knocking on their door.


    Leaving a way out for the family, this is something every family would do.


    "Continue the investigation, we must find out the whereabouts of the core descendants of the Huang Family and Huang Lih¨¦!" Lin Xianzhi, upon hearing the news, fell silent for a moment before nodding and instructing.


    Lin Yuqing immediately took themand and left, while Lin Xianzhi, in the end, turned his gaze towards Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, how does your cultivation of the venerable ancestor''s Purple Wood Heart Sutra enhance spirit nts?"


    "To report back to the seventh granduncle, if Shiming carefully cultivates Second Rank spirit nts, it''s possible to shorten their maturation time by nearly half! But for Third Rank spirit nts, it can probably only be reduced by about one tenth or one fifth," Lin Shiming replied without hesitation, truthfully.


    "Good, not bad!" Lin Xianzhi nodded in approval and then flipped hisrge hand over.


    A jade box full of spiritual energy was ced in Lin Shiming''s hands.


    "From now on, you will cultivate the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, and when you reach the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, you needn''t worry about the Foundation Establishment Pill; the family will provide it. Moreover, you should also find a cave dwelling by the Qinglian Pool to cultivate in!"


    As he spoke, Lin Xianzhi opened the jade box, revealing a small and exquisite crystal-clear treasure tree sealed inside.


    The treasure tree was encased in spirit light, with vibrant spiritual energy. Even within the sealed jade box, it appeared extraordinarily lively, not to mention the wonders it would exhibit if ced outside.


    "Yes!" Lin Shiming received the jade box with both hands, overjoyed in his heart.


    Although it meant providing some of his own spiritual energy to the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree for the next few years,


    to be given a Foundation Establishment Pill without any conditions, and the opportunity to cultivate by the Qinglian Pool was unquestionably excellent news for him.


    In the ce with the richest spiritual energy of the Upper Grade Third Rank Spirit Vein, his cultivation speed would surely be able to improve once again.


    "Also, make a copy of the Formation Instrument Manual for your second grandfather and your fourth grandfather!" Lin Xianzhi reminded him just before leaving.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming tensed up; this message he was to convey was quite intriguing.


    He was somewhat puzzled by the seventh granduncle''s course of action, but just as he was about to ask, he saw thetter wave his hand and say:


    "What, do you still want your father, who is at the Foundation Establishment stage, to continue as the family head?"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming was momentarily stunned, taking quite a while to realize that Lin Xianzhi was grooming him to be the next head of the Lin Family.


    But he was only 21 years old.


    Surprised as he was, to have the opportunity to be the family head of the Lin Family, Lin Shiming refrained from making any modest refusals!


    Moreover, bing the family head would also further secure the family''s investment in resources for him, which is more conducive to his rapid Foundation Establishment.


    Otherwise, for him who is temporarily without the four arts of cultivation and has raised three spirit beasts, securing the sources of resources is indeed a significant challenge.


    "Thank you, seventh granduncle, Shiming will exert all his effort and not let you down!"

 Chapter 64: 64 Lin Houyuan Breakthrough

    As he returned to the family''s Earth Fire Hall''s Alchemy Pavilion, Lin Shiming spotted Lin Yuqi who was lecturing and giving instructions.


    Within the hall, several Lin Family apprentices of the Shiming generation were studying how to control the furnace.


    Among them, Lin Shitao, who was at the third rank of Qi Cultivation, stood at the forefront, controlling a Spirit Furnace that floated high in the air, while below it was the Earth Fire drawn out from the Formation.


    The Spirit Furnace in front of her was controlled the steadiest, and the me also remained continuously at a suitable temperature.


    However, the other Shiming generation apprentices beside her were less satisfactory, with mes fluctuating, asionally spilling over the Pill Furnace, and this was when they were sweating profusely and focusing their spirits to control it.


    Even Lin Shiming, an outsider, could easily discern the varying degrees of skill among them.


    "Second Grandpa!" Upon greeting Lin Yuqi, he stopped instructing and instructed everyone to continue controlling the Pill Furnace before walking over to Lin Shiming.


    "Ran out of Beast Nurturing Pills again? Don''t worry, this time there''s more than enough!" Lin Yuqi said with a smile, taking out two Pill Bottles, and without considering whether Lin Shiming really needed them, he stuffed them into Lin Shiming''s hands.


    He was clearly very satisfied with Lin Shiming''s persuasion of Lin Shitao to practice alchemy. |em|p,yr


    Lin Shiming looked at the Second Elder before him with a somewhat amused and helpless expression; he had note for the Beast Nurturing Pills this time.


    But thinking of the insatiable appetites of the three Spirit Beasts, he still epted the Spirit Pills.


    He then stated his purpose, handing over a replicated Jade Slip to Lin Yuqi.


    "Second Grandpa, this is a Jade Slip that Seventh Great-Uncle asked me to give to you!"


    "Hmm!" Lin Yuqi took the Jade Slip and gave Lin Shiming a meaningful nce.


    He smiled slightly, seeming to understand Lin Xianzhi''s intentions for nurturing Lin Shiming.


    But he did not verbalize it, instead, he started to look through the Jade Slip.


    This nce at the Jade Slip, with its novel ways of using Formations to improve the level of Artifact Refining, immediately inspired great creativity in him.


    The reason Lin Yuqi and Lin Yutie were unable to refine Third Rank elixirs and Third Rank magic artifacts was not due to insufficient alchemical and artifact crafting skills.


    It was because their Cultivation Level could not support the refinement of Third Rank elixirs and magic artifacts, and they were also unable to control the Earth Fire to such temperatures.


    But in this Formation Artifact Manual, it detailed how to use Formations to increase the temperature of Earth Fire and how to absorb Spiritual Energy from the Spirit Veins for Alchemy and Artifact Refining in an extremely thorough manner.


    Lin Shiming, who could make out some points from the Jade Slip, watched as the professional Lin Yuqi benefited immensely, marveled at the creator of such a method as divine.


    He then bid Lin Shiming farewell and hurried off to his exclusive Alchemy Room to study in depth.


    He even forgot about the apprentices who were still training to control the furnace.


    In the end, it was Lin Shiming who entered the furnace controlling area and informed several apprentices that the Second Elder had an epiphany and needed time to deeply cultivate in seclusion.


    The Shiming generation apprentices naturally rejoiced, seemingly a bit rxed.


    They began putting down the furnace controlling and started looking admiringly at this Seventh Brother.


    If it were three years ago, the most heard among the Shiming generation would definitely be Lin Shijie, with his dual Spirit Roots.


    But in the past three years, the deeds of Lin Shiming were what these teenagers of the Shiming generation yearned to hear.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shitao, standing to the side, spoke out with some seriousness:


    "Shili, Shifeng, don''t get distracted. If you don''t practice controlling the furnace well, when will you ever be an Alchemist?"


    Hearing this, several of the Shiming generation youths indeed looked crestfallen and then went back in front of the Earth Fire Array, continuing their practice of controlling the Pill Furnace.


    Finished speaking, Lin Shitao looked apologetically at Lin Shiming, and her face began to blush.


    Completely different from her demeanor when she was scolding the others just before.


    "Seventh brother, Shitao is a bit foolish and can only refine First Rank Innate Pills and Fasting Pills for now!"


    "Keep it up, you are already very impressive!" Lin Shiming smacked his lips, internally criticizing the word "foolish" used by Lin Shitao.


    At the age of thirteen, at the peak of the thirdyer of Qi Cultivation, and having already be a First Rank Alchemist, if this was still considered foolish, Lin Shiming found it hard toment further, as it felt like he was criticizing himself, too.


    After offering encouragement, he left the Pill Pavilion.


    He visited the Artifact Refining Hall again, handed a copy of the Formation Artifact Manual to Lin Yutie, and returned to the Qinglian Pool, where he had built a small loft dwelling for himself.


    Then he quietly continued his cultivation.


    In the cultivation world, time passed without notice, and in the blink of an eye, half a year was gone.


    Lin Shiming only felt a sudden surge of spiritual energy beside him, and the entire Qinglian Pool became restless.


    He walked out of his dwelling, only to find that Lin Xianzhi had already appeared.


    They both looked towards a dwelling deep within the Qinglian Pool.


    That was where Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Houyuan, was cultivating.


    "Uncle Seven, is father about to make a breakthrough?" Lin Shiming asked Lin Xianzhi, seeing the turbulent spiritual energy.


    "That''s right. Your father must have forged his Spirit tform and is consolidating his True Yuan!" Lin Xianzhi nodded approvingly and looked towards Lin Houyuan''s dwelling with satisfaction.


    After more than thirty years, the Lin Family was finally about to have a second Foundation Establishment Cultivator.


    As the anomaly appeared, several Elders hastened from the foot of the mountain. On learning it was for Lin Houyuan''s breakthrough, they all beamed with joy, observing from the side.


    Among them, Lin Houyong, Lin''s Great-Uncle Five, watched most carefully. At fifty-eight, with only two years to go, even just witnessing someone else''s Foundation Establishment from afar held significant reference value for him.


    The anomalysted about half a day, and suddenly a surge of Foundation Establishment Spirit Might emerged, then dispersed.


    The spiritual energy returned to calmness.


    "It''s done!" Lin Xianzhi nodded his head.


    "Let''s all disperse, and wait for Hou Yuan to consolidate his cultivation level!"


    Following Lin Xianzhi''s words, the Qi Cultivation Elders of the Lin Family one by one took their leave.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but feel happy for his father, who, after Foundation Establishment, would enjoy a lifespan of two hundred and fifty years.


    Not even sixty yet, he still had plenty of time to pursue the path of immortality.


    "Shiming, how is the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree?" Lin Xianzhi asked again about the family''s extremely important Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree. The Foundation Establishment Pill''s three main ingredients included the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, which was very rare even in a Golden Core Sect like the Qingxuan Sect, which only had a few dozen of these trees, each bearing fruit only every hundred years.


    Even the cultivators of Qingxuan Sect who cultivated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra needed about fifty or sixty years for the fruits to mature.


    Therefore, Lin Xianzhi was particrly concerned about this Spirit Tree.


    The Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree was nted on a small hill next to the Qinglian Pool and was inscribed with a Spirit Concealing Formation. So even the Qi Cultivation Elders had not noticed that the family had acquired a valuable Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree.


    "Rest assured, Uncle Seven, there are no issues with the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree!" Lin Shiming led Lin Xianzhi to check the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree once more.


    At this moment, the Spirit Tree was over ten meters tall, with a canopy sprawling over ten meters, each leaf gleaming brightly, a sign of exemry cultivation.


    Moreover, in the past six months, Lin Shiming''s Spirit nting technique had reached the Intermediate Grade of the Second Rank, undoubtedly thanks to the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, but also an indication of his remarkable talent for Spirit nting.


    "Uncle Seven, it hasn''t been long since the tree bore fruit. The next time the fruits mature, it will be seventy or eighty years from now," Lin Shiming sighed and then exined to Lin Xianzhi.


    However, thetter didn''t find it regrettable, as the Huang Family''s harvest of Heavenly Spirit Fruits still left three in his possession.


    "Shiming, go ask Yu Qi how his alchemy research is going!"

 Chapter 65: 65 Third Rank Alchemist

    Returning to the Earth Fire Hall once again, both the Pill Pavilion and the Artifact Pavilion were significantly busier than before, and the surrounding temperature was much higher as well.


    The ce was also livelier now, with quite a few Qi Cultivation first and second level disciples trying their hand at the Pill Pavilion and Artifact Pavilion.


    Among them, Lin Shizhong was the most sessful¡ªthe Third Spirit Root Cultivator who had entered the Lin Family alongside Lin Shitao.


    Although he had just broken through to the second level of Qi Cultivation, his artifact refining technique and talent earned him the praise of Lin Yutie, a peak Second Rank Artifact Refiner.


    Of course, they couldn''t help but admire Lin Shiming as well, thanks to that Ascension Conference, the family had gained two promising young immortals.


    Now the Lin Family had even changed the Ascension Conference from a five-yearly event to a triennial one.


    As a result, the number of Shiming generation members had already grown to over fifty.


    Inside the Pill Pavilion, a few more disciples were practicing at the furnaces, but Lin Shitao was surprisingly not in the grand hall, and Lin Yuqi wasn''t there either, not responding to the Sound Transmission Talisman.


    When the Shiming generation disciples saw Lin Shiming arrive, they gathered around him, respectfully and admiringly calling him Seventh Brother.


    Especially the younger ones, whose eyes were filled with adoration, as if Lin Shiming''s face bore tales of heart-stirring adventures.


    "Where''s Second Grandfather?" Lin Shiming nodded in response to each of them, and then asked.


    "Second Grandfather and the others are alchemizing in the innermost room; they have been at it for half a month now, and Thirty-One Sister is there too!"


    At the mention of this, the facial expressions of several Shiming generation alchemy apprentices darkened, clearly worn out from controlling the furnace for over ten days.


    The Thirty-One Sister they referred to was naturally Lin Shitao, the little girl from four years ago, who was now being addressed as Sister.


    Lin Shiming felt a twinge of emotion, and as Seventh Brother, he also admonished his Shiming generation siblings to stay focused and calm.


    But the thought of his own actions involuntarily reminded him of his Second Uncle, who used to give him the same advice.


    Lin Houshou was still in charge of the Treasure Pavilion, but he spoke far less than before.


    Suddenly, the earth fire in front of them burst out furiously, soaring to over three meters high.


    Several prepared apprentices quickly retreated outside the formation, while Lin Shiming himself was also given quite a fright.


    It was his first time witnessing such an eruption of mes, and he too retreated several meters away.


    The mes continued to rise, the runes on the walls of the Pill Pavilion flickered wildly, and through the Spirit Gathering Array, countless spirit patterns frenziedly absorbed the surrounding spiritual energy.


    Furrowing his brows, Lin Shiming released his divine sense and discovered that the source of the earth fire''s turbulence was in the room where Lin Yuqi was in seclusion.


    "Could this be?" Lin Shiming suddenly thought of a possibility.


    Before he could ponder any further, a faint scent of elixirs wafted out.


    This elixir fragrance was very subtle, yet taking a deep breath made one feel the flow of spiritual power throughout their body.


    Keep in mind, the rooms for alchemy were sealed with formations, but the fragrance of the elixir had still made its way out.


    That could only mean one thing, the elixir Lin Yuqi had crafted was a Third Rank Elixir!


    The fragrancested nearly an entire hour before it finally faded away.


    When the formation opened, a haggard but spirited Lin Yuqi walked outughing heartily, clutching a pill bottle in his trembling hand.


    "Shiming, your timing couldn''t have been better! Absolutely perfect," Lin Yuqi said joyfully, twice for emphasis.


    Behind him, Lin Shitao also emerged, extremely weary, but her eyes were equally brimming with excitement.


    "Congrattions, Second Grandfather!" Lin Shiming quickly waved his hands.


    Thetter waved back dismissively, turning to address the remaining alchemy apprentices:


    "Today, you can take a day to rest and adjust. Alchemy, like cultivation, requires one to alternate between tension and rxation!"


    As Lin Yuqi began to speak, several alchemy apprentices felt that he seemed exceptionally happy today, which was out of the ordinary.


    But they didn''t think much of it, and one by one, they sighed in relief and energetically waved goodbye as they asked to leave.


    Only Lin Yuqi stayed behind to hand over the pill bottle to Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, these are Third Rank Consolidation Pills, perfectly suited for your father!" Lin Yuqi exined with joy, his gaze on the elixir unusually tender.


    Lin Shiming also epted the pill bottle with utmost gravity, as it contained the first Third Rank elixir refined by the Lin Family.


    For the Lin Family, this was significantly meaningful!


    Of course, this was something to share with his seventh great-uncle without dy.


    Lin Shiming took out a Spirit Talisman and transmitted a message towards the Qinglian Pool.


    Then he looked at the Second Elder, seeing that at this moment Lin Yuqi was so excited, yet also so exhausted.


    His eyes were full of bloodshot veins, and his hair was beginning to turn white.


    It was evident that there were disturbances in the way this cultivator used his spiritual energy to maintain bodily functions.


    "Second Grandfather, as our family''s Third Rank Alchemist, you must take good care of your health!" said Lin Shiming with concern. Although Lin Yuqi had maintained a middle-aged appearance until now, the old man was already 92 years old and had suffered a hidden injury in his youth, which likely left him with less than 120 years of life.


    "You have no need to worry about that, Shiming. This old man''s bones won''t rest until I have trained a Third Rank Alchemist!" Lin Yuqi replied nonchntly, and then he told Lin Shitao to go rest.


    Thetter was already exhausted from the intensive learning and assistance during the alchemy process.


    "Second Grandfather, this is the Foundation Establishment Pill recipe that Seventh Great-Uncle wants to give you!" Lin Shiming hesitated, but still took out the Foundation Establishment Pill recipe.


    "Obtained from the Huang Family?" As soon as the recipe appeared, the sharpness in Lin Yuqi''s eyes, which had somewhat faded, red up again. He took the recipe and, after talking briefly with Lin Shiming, he once again entered his room.


    As Lin Shiming was about to speak, the former had already spoken:


    "What I just gave was a gift for your father''s Foundation Establishment, convey my congrattions to him for the sess of his Foundation Establishment!"


    After saying that, he closed the formation again, and Lin Shiming could only leave helplessly.


    ...


    Having returned to the Qinglian Pool area, since Lin Houyuan was in seclusion, most of the family affairs were being handled by the Great Elder and the Fifth Elder. At this moment, they went to Lin Xianzhi.


    Both of them had worried expressions, especially Lin Yuzheng, the Elder responsible for the family''s business caravan, who bore the financial pressures of the entire family.


    "Shiming, you''vee at the right time. You should listen to this too," Lin Xianzhi beckoned Lin Shiming over.


    Lin Shimingplied and went over.


    During their conversation, Lin Shiming came to understand the reason for the family''s current crisis.


    The Huang Family was no more, but the Li Family of the Purple Mansion Family had split off to form two branches, Qingyun Li Family and Huangyun Li Family.


    The former remained a Purple Mansion Family, naturally not targeting the Lin Family which was still at the Foundation Establishment level. However, the newly formed Huangyun Li Family was different; they started targeting the Lin Family directly throughmercial routes.


    In Yunzhou''srgest marketce, Qingyun Marketce, they directly targeted the Lin Family''s alchemy rooms and Artifact Refining Pavilion, causing the Lin Family''s business to plummet.


    If it weren''t for the business of Monkey Wine and Lin Xianzhi''s senior brother Xie An maintaining several stores, the loss would have been even more dismal.


    And it must be noted, the stores operated to support Zi Xuan Hermit and Senior Brother Xie yielded the majority of profits to thetter.


    Given these circumstances, the Lin Family increased the n''s stipend, andst year, they spent over a hundred thousand to purchase Foundation Establishment Pills; their finances had already started to go into deficit.


    A short-term deficit was bearable, but in the long term, it would definitely affect the development of the family.


    And if the n''s stipend were to be reduced now, it would simrly affect the enthusiasm of the n members.

 Chapter 66 A Fortuitous Invitation

    Inside the pavilion of the Qinglian Pool, Lin Shiming was also bing anxious.


    This branch of the Li family''s suppression tactics was indeed ruthless, and unlike the situation with the Huang Family, Xie An could not step in to help now, and the reputation of the Zi Xuan Hermit was also of limited use.


    It should be known that the Li family also has a Purple Mansion cultivator, and their ties with the Qingxuan Sect run deep as well.


    If the Lin Family were to actively use the power of the Qingxuan Sect, the Li family would then have an excuse, and even if the Zi Xuan Hermit was powerful, there were still factions within the sect that were his opponents.


    Moreover, within the Qingxuan Sect, it was well known that the Zi Xuan Hermit was already over four hundred years old and not far off from the five-hundred-year lifespan limit of the Purple Mansion stage.


    "The family must think of new financial avenues, alchemy and artifact refining simply cannotpete with the Li family!" Lin Yuzheng said worriedly.


    After a long silence, Lin Xianzhi finally summarized and spoke up,


    "Let''s host Lin Houyuan''s Foundation Establishment event in the square market of Xing County, and hold an auction at the same time. We should extend an invitation to the fellow cultivators in Yunzhou. Since we cannot expand the Qingyun square market, we shall develop the Xing County market, which is close to the scattered cultivators of the Qingyun Mountain range!"


    "Also, Yuzheng, thereafter, the family will need to find a way to purchase Spirit Peach Trees and expand the production of Monkey Wine, striving to increase sales to Qingzhou!"


    Lin Yuzheng and Lin Yuqing both nodded in agreement; this seemed to be the best way forward.


    "Uncle Five, how is the market for Spirit Fish and other spiritual delicacies?" Lin Shiming suddenly asked.


    "The market for Spirit Fish is naturally very good, but the source of Spirit Fish and such delicacies is far too rare, even more so than the Spirit Beasts in Qingyun Mountains!" Lin Yuzheng, upon hearing Lin Shiming mention this, also looked somewhat puzzled.


    Hearing this, Lin Shiming''s eyes suddenly lit up. With over twenty years in immortal cultivation, he naturally knew that Cultivator Families were proficient in raising Spirit nts, but there was little thought given to the breeding of Spirit Beasts or Spirit Fish.


    After all, Spirit Beasts were too uncontroble and were not of great value to warrant the effort of cultivation.


    "Shiming, do you mean to use Qinglian Pool for breeding Spirit Fish?" Lin Yuzheng, who had been in business for many years and was sensitive to financial matters involving Spirit Stones, instantly understood when Lin Shiming asked this question.


    And he thought that pairing Spirit Fish with Monkey Wine would indeed be an excellent match.


    "Right, and we don''t need to use Qinglian Pool directly. As the Green Lotus must be expanded, having them too densely packed will affect their growth. We can construct another Qinglian Lake, dilute Third Rank Spirit Water and pour it into the new Spirit Lake, dividing up the Green Lotus."


    "As a Spirit nt Master, I understand the growth of Spirit nts well. Many of the excretions from Spirit Beasts can aid in the growth of Spirit nts!" Lin Shiming exined slowly, integrating ideas from his past life''s breeding techniques.


    "Shiming, your suggestion is feasible. The growth of the Green Lotus has indeed slowed down, and with a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, it shouldn''t be at this pace!" Lin Xianzhi spoke up as well.


    Soon, Lin Xianzhi made a decision. They would construct a new Qinglian Lake, with Lin Yuzheng now responsible for finding new Spirit Fish fry, and Lin Yuqing taking charge of organizing Lin Houyuan''s Foundation Establishment event.


    Since they wanted to expand their influence, invitations for the Foundation Establishment event would need to be sent out a month in advance.


    After discussing the uing matters, Lin Shiming showed to Lin Xianzhi the Third Rank Consolidation Pills that Second Elder had refined.


    Thetter removed the bottle stopper, examined it for a while, then nodded with a hint of joy and handed the pill bottle back to Lin Shiming.


    "There''s no differencepared to other elixirs!"


    Lin Xianzhi''s words eased the minds of both men, as these represented the viability of the Formation Artifact Manual methods and, at the same time, the possibility of producing Foundation Establishment Pills.


    If not for this, the Lin Family would have had to risk being discovered while looking for a Qingxuan Sect Alchemist to craft the Foundation Establishment Pills, not to mention that the processing fee aside, even the hush money was not a small amount.


    The Qingxuan Sect strictly forbids ns from privately concocting Foundation Establishment Pills.


    "You must also hurry with your cultivation. The peaceful days won''tst long!" Lin Xianzhi voiced his concerns somewhat worriedly.


    At that moment, it was clear that the old family head knew something, but Lin Shiming didn''t press for more information. Instead, he silently resolved to continue dedicating himself to cultivation.


    That day, after asking some questions about cultivation, Lin Shiming took his leave.


    Ten dayster, Lin Houyuan finally emerged from seclusion, and Lin Shiming went to meet him as soon as possible. At the same time, he handed over the Consolidation Pills to Lin Houyuan.


    After meeting with the n''s elders, Lin Houyuan returned to seclusion and announced that the Foundation Establishment Conference would convene in half a year at Xing County Square Market.


    At that time, Lin Houyuan would also give a sermon, offering a chance for fortune to the cultivators who came to the meeting to congratte him.


    Lin Shiming continued his retreat, cultivation, tending to the Spirit Beasts, and cultivating the Heavenly Spirit Fruit trees.


    ...


    A monthter, a Spirit Talisman flew into Lin Shiming''s cave dwelling.


    Lin Shiming opened his eyes and took the Spirit Talisman into his hands.


    He saw that it was from his second elder brother, Lin Shiyi, who seemed very eager to meet with Lin Shiming.


    Without hesitation, Lin Shiming released the three Spirit Beasts, fed them one by one, and then left the mountaintop to head down to the mountainside.


    "Little Seventh, I''ve called you this time because there''s an opportunity avable. I wonder if you''re willing to go!" said Lin Shiyi, as hearty as ever, with his cultivation visibly breaking through to the Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation, his muscles looking even more robust.


    "Second Brother''s opportunity is something Shiming is of course willing to partake in. However, please exin the situation so Shiming can make adequate preparations," Lin Shiming said, holding a great fondness for Lin Shiyi, but he understood all too well that Lin Shiyi could be a bit rash.


    Opportunity always came with risks, and it was best to be prepared.


    "It was the Fourth Brother who discovered a valley with an Inferior Grade Second Rank Spirit Vein. Inside, there are plenty of Inferior and Intermediate Grade Spiritual Medicines, including the Bone-Tempering Flower needed for Body Cultivation. The danger lies in two Second Rankte-stage Sabretooth Tigers, one of which has just given birth to a cub!" Lin Shiyi revealed.


    The Bone-Tempering Flower is the main ingredient for the Superior Grade Second Rank Bone-Tempering Pill, which is extremely helpful for Body Cultivators in thete stages of Qi Cultivation.


    In the marketce, it also holds significant value. A single Bone-Tempering Flower could sell for several hundred Spirit Stones.


    Thus, Lin Shiyi''s gaze was filled with intense eagerness.


    "We originally nned to invite Big Brother, but he has taken a Barrier-Breaking Pill and is attempting to break through to the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation. Considering Little Seventh, you have formidablebat power, we decided to include you," he added, further exining.


    After listening, Lin Shiming nodded. A Second Rankte-stage Sabretooth Tiger along with a mother who has just given birth to a cub wouldn''t pose a significant problem for Lin Shiming and the others, who were all in thete stages of Qi Cultivation.


    He believed that with some assistance, he wouldn''t be much weaker than someone at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, and Lin Shiming regarded Lin Shimo''s abilities as fairly capable.


    "All right, but first, let''s stop by the Treasure Pavilion to pick up some Spirit Talismans!" Lin Shiming agreed but prudently went to exchange for Spirit Talismans.


    Of course, what he was thinking about even more at this moment was Lin Shimo. He could never quite understand this Fourth Brother who practiced the Corpse Training Decree.

 Chapter 67 Spiritual Bee

    In a certain part of Qingyun Mountain range, nestled a valley backed by the shady side of a mountain.


    The valley seemed very damp, perenniallycking sunlight, which made the trees unusually stunted.


    In the sky above, with three trails of sword light streaking across, three youths in green robesnded in front of the valley.


    The leading youth wore an indifferent expression, followed by two men, one robust and the other lean, indeed it was Lin Shiming and two others from Fangmu Mountain.


    In his family''s Treasure Pavilion, using arge amount of contribution points, Lin Shiming exchanged for two Third Rank Spirit Talismans and two Earth Escape Talismans, spending a total of thirty thousand contribution points. It turned out these were found in the relics left by the Huang Family.


    These two Third Rank Spirit Talismans might not be so powerful for Foundation Establishment cultivators, one storing an Inferior Grade Third Rank spell, the Ice Rain Technique, and the other an Inferior Grade Third Rank spell, the Fire Dragon Technique. But after all, they were Third Rank talismans, and among Qi Cultivators, they were definitely formidable weapons of great effectiveness.


    With two talismans at hand, and also possessing talisman treasures, as well as Lin Shiming''s excellent magic artifacts, he finally agreed toe to this secret valley with Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo who were waiting outside the mountain.


    "Second brother, seventh brother, this is the ce!" After saying this, Lin Shimo stopped talking and walked into the valley.


    Lin Shiming didn''t say much either. He''d known Lin Shimo''s temperament since they were young. Lin Shiyi, standing beside him, gave Lin Shiming a simple, sincere smile, seeming to try to dissipate the awkward atmosphere.


    But after speaking, he realized he wasn''t good at smoothing things over either.


    With an awkwardugh, he followed along.


    The group opted for exploration with a spirit beast and trained corpses. The trained corpses led the way, with a Sabretooth Tiger that had reached the peak of Second Rank Inferior Grade flying in the sky, and behind them a Red-haired Demon Monkey apanied by Lin Shiyi, who practiced body cultivation.


    The monkey had grown more robust than before. The Profound Water Heavy Mountain that it used to need to hold with both hands could now be grasped in one, and in its other hand it carried a Profound Iron Rod weighing a thousand catties.


    Lin Shiming walked in the middle, fondling some seeds in his hand and continuously scanning the surroundings with his divine sense.


    It was very quiet inside the valley. The group walked for about three or four miles without encountering any spirit beasts or sounds.


    Lin Shiming extended his divine sense to the maximum range. This was not the time to conserve spiritual power.


    Finally, within a concealed thicket, a pitch-ck, giant tigery silently in wait.


    The next moment, a roar bellowed out.


    Before Lin Shiming had time to warn the others, the Sabretooth Tiger pounced towards them, its massive fangs gleaming. One after another, golden des actually condensed in its mouth and then fiercely shot towards the three of them.


    The trio, although prepared, was startled by the Sabretooth Tiger''s speed and the golden sword attacks, and they hastily released their Flying Swords.


    Three Flying Swords shot out, but the sword techniques of Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo weren''t sessful in intercepting the golden sword attacks. Only Lin Shiming''s Green Sky Sword managed to sh all the golden swords into spirit light.


    Almost as soon as the sword left his hand, Lin Shiyi, as a body cultivator, turned into a shadow that rushed forward first. Arge Supreme Grade magic artifact iron rod mmed directly towards the Sabretooth Tiger''s head.


    The Sabretooth Tiger in mid-air also fiercely pped with its paw, striking the iron rod. A loud boom echoed, spirit light exploded, and both were sent flying backward.


    The trained corpses under Lin Shimo''smand instantly lunged at the Sabretooth Tiger, particrly the blood corpse, which was even more ferocious.


    The tiger was caught and let out continuous roars and pitiful howls.


    But at that moment, another whooshing sound rose.


    The same thicket from before suddenly expelled another Sabretooth Tiger. This one was clearly smaller than the one before, but its momentum was still formidable as it directly dived down towards Lin Shiming.


    The target was very precise, andpared to the previous two cultivators, Lin Shiming indeed didn''t seem as domineering.


    Wood-type spells always give off such a tranquil feeling.


    However, while the Sabretooth Tiger was still in mid-air, Lin Shiming''s lips slightly curled, and he cast several Spirit Arts with his hands.


    Three Snake Vine Flowers swiftly rose up and in the blink of an eye, they turned into towering vines that bound the Sabretooth Tiger tightly.


    Lin Shiming didn''t use poison, opting instead for a Second Rank Supreme Grade magic sword, the Green Sky Sword, which flew back into his hand, aimed straight for the Sabretooth Tiger''s head, preserving as much of its body materials as possible.


    The Sabretooth Tiger hastily condensed a Golden Sword in its mouth, only to be smashed fiercely by a Profound Mountain, its head almost getting crushed.


    As the sword light drifted by, this evidently weaker female Sabretooth Tiger was beheaded and died beyond any doubt!


    Therger Sabretooth Tiger nearby instantly let out a mournful roar, its body''s Spiritual Power suddenly doubling in speed.


    But unfortunately, as Lin Shiming cast another set of Spirit Arts, two more Snake Vine Flowers rose up, ying the Sabretooth Tiger beneath his sword.


    With the two tigers dead, the three of them immediately cleaned up the battlefield, collected the bodies, and continued deeper into the valley.


    Lin Shiming did not lower his guard, although Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo had said there were only two Sabretooth Tigers, being extra cautious was always error-free.


    Upon reaching the depths of the valley, the Spiritual Energy began to thicken; shortly after, they came across the Bone-Tempering Flowers that Lin Shiyi had mentioned.


    These Bone-Tempering Flowers were obviously guarded by the Sabretooth Tigers.


    Lin Shiyi grinned foolishly and looked towards Lin Shiming, as he was the only Spirit nt Master and was also keen on transnting a few to nurture in his own medicinal garden to increase their medicinal age and potency.


    If it were an ordinary Spiritual Medicine, he would have carelessly picked it and wouldn''t bother about preserving the rhizome, but the Bone-Tempering Flower was greatly beneficial for his Body Refinement.


    Naturally, Lin Shiming wouldn''t refuse. Taking out a Jade Box, he carefully harvested the Bone-Tempering Flowers with the unique nurturing technique of a Spirit nt Master, along with the roots, and carefully ced them inside.


    In addition to the Bone-Tempering Flowers, Lin Shiming also collected various yin-natured Spiritual Medicines and Spirit Grasses.


    What surprised him, however, was that there were more flowers than grasses here, and as for Spirit Trees, he didn''t see any at all.


    "Let''s go catch that Sabretooth Tiger cub!" As soon as Lin Shiming had picked all the Spiritual Medicines and after scouting the surroundings, only the central cave had not been explored, Lin Shiyi suggested they head in.


    Lin Shiming nodded, and Lin Shimo showed agreement with his actions.


    Themon walking corpse led the way while the blood corpse followed, and then they moved towards the inside of the cave.


    Deep inside the cave, the three of them indeed found a Sabretooth Tiger cub cowering in a corner, ring fiercely at them, continuously growling and raging.


    But obviously powerless, the cub was quieted by Lin Shiming with a Shen Fu and put into a Spirit Beast Bag, to be distributed after the fight.


    It was at that moment that Lin Shiming''s system prompt sounded.


    "Climb up the cliff, and you shall harvest a swarm of Spirit Bees!"


    Hearing the prompt, Lin Shiming suddenly remembered those flowers and also recalled the peach blossoms that bloomed every year on Fangmu Mountain.


    This was a gift of workers for harvesting Spirit Honey right at his doorstep!

 Chapter 68: Chapter 68 You Can Kill Me

    Lin Shiming thought of the Spirit Bees and felt a surge of excitement within his heart, as their Ling Honey was even more important than all the Bone-Tempering Flowers and Demonic Beast cubs, for it could neutralize poison of a cultivator at the same rank.


    With Ling Honey, his cultivation speed would be able to reach a new level!


    Just as Lin Shiming was thinking about going out to find some, Lin Shimo suddenly spoke up. He stared at Lin Shiming with a face full of eagerness to fight.


    This was also the second sentence he had uttered on this trip.


    "Seventh brother, shall we have a sparring match?"


    As soon as Lin Shimo said this, Lin Shiyi''s expression also soured, although he had anticipated that Lin Shimo would challenge. After all, it was he who had invited Lin Shiming to help him obtain the Bone-Tempering Flowers.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t too surprised, as his second brother Lin Shiyi had previously warned him about this.


    Ever since he was young, this fourth brother of his had been fanatically devoted to cultivation, even more diligent than the eldest brother. To gain strength, he even resolutely switched to cultivating the Corpse Training Decree.


    He was supposed to be the second among this generation to be nurtured by the family, yet both Lin Shiming and Lin Shitao had surpassed him one after another. His heart must be filled with discontent, though he was adept at keeping it to himself.


    Lin Shiming was quite confident in his ability to defeat Lin Shimo, not just because of his cultivation technique and spiritual power, but also because his two demonic beasts could counter Lin Shimo''s corpse training.


    However, after considering for a moment, he didn''t engage in any pointless chatter and simply nodded in agreement.


    The two of them left the cave abode and found an open space.


    Lin Shimo did not speak, but gestured invitingly with his hand.


    Lin Shiming didn''t decline; being the one to make the first move, he immediately threw out several seeds, then released the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis one by one.


    To defeat a brother who pursued strength with strength was the best way to show respect.


    The appearance of the Golden Winged Mantis immediately caused Lin Shimo''s pupils to constrict, taken aback by the surprise.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, not seen for half a year, had advanced again and was now ate Second Rank Demonic Beast. Its swift advancement rendered Lin Shimo speechless.


    The mantis'' wings had grown longer, and its two golden scythe-like forelimbs shone brightly, clearly extremely sharp.


    If Lin Shimo offered a spar, of course he was prepared. Pressing his hand down, a flicker of Spirit Light revealed more than ten refined corpses, amongst which there were as many as three blood corpses, just like before.


    The sharp fangs of the refined corpses were terrifying, and the foul-smelling corpse fluid dripped continuously.


    "Go!" Lin Shimingmanded the Red-haired Demon Monkey to crush down like a small mountain, while his green Flying Sword, the Green Sky Sword, emitted a brilliant light and flew out, shing directly towards the threerge blood corpses.


    Lin Shiming then made another hand gesture, and countless wood vines shot out, binding towards the group of refined corpses.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shimo, having anticipated this, controlled several corpses covered in corpse hair to shoot out numerous strands, cutting all the vines in half.


    He then had countless refined corpses dig up the ground, looking for the seeds of the Snake Vine Flower.


    Lin Shiming naturally couldn''t let the seeds of the Snake Vine Flower be found, so with a quick gesture to catalyze, numerous wood vines rose, and along with them, three Snake Vine Flowers wrapped around Lin Shimo.


    However, thetter retreated swiftly by tapping the ground, avoiding the entanglement of the Snake Vine Flowers.


    A few blood corpses, however, bit towards the roots of the Snake Vine Flowers. Two of the flowers were bitten off, but the blood corpses that were caught seemed unaffected.


    Lin Shiming then unleashed the Five Elements Tower, whose Five Elements Spell immediately overwhelmed one of the blood corpses, stripping it of itsbat power in an instant.


    The Golden Winged Mantis at this moment shone with brilliant gold light, moving incredibly fast. Its golden scythe-like legs managed to sever a blood corpse into two halves.


    Ate Second Rank Golden Winged Mantis was even more formidable than before, with a speed nearly matching that of a peak Second Rank flying Demonic Beast.


    Lin Shiming didn''t take further action, but turned his gaze to Lin Shimo.


    Without the blood corpses, Lin Shimo was on the verge of defeat.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming was also ready to catalyze the Iron Thorn Wood and the remaining seven Snake Vine Flowers at any moment, while a Third Rank Spell was prepared in his other hand.


    If Lin Shimo harbored even the slightest killing intent, Lin Shiming would have struck him down with thunderous measures just the same.


    Even if the person before him was his fourth brother.


    "Little Seven, your fourth brother admits defeat!" Lin Shimo said, with a look of dejection on his face.


    Lin Shiming also ceased his actions, watching as the other party slowly took one corpse after another into his storage bag.


    Thetter''s movements seemed very slow, the despondency in his eyes turning into hesitation, and eventually, determination.


    After putting away the corpses, Lin Shiming also stowed away the seeds and spoke,


    "Thank you, fourth brother, for yielding and not using your Body Refinement technique!"


    Lin Shiming had known before that the Corpse Training Decree also had the effect of body refinement, which is why Lin Shiyi and Lin Shimo often worked together, but Lin Shimo hid it well.


    Lin Shimo refraining from using it meant that he hadn''t lost his reason, and naturally, Lin Shiming wouldn''t let him lose face.


    It was just a sparring match, after all,


    As the battle came to an end and both parties appeared uninjured, Lin Shiyi finally rxed.


    "Little Seven, you are very strong, hardly inferior to big brother. I''m convinced, fourth brother!" Lin Shimo shook his head and said.


    Then, without waiting for Lin Shiming or Lin Shiyi to say anything, he looked into the void, as if reminiscing, and murmured,


    "Fourth brother has been an orphan since childhood, my life has been rougher than you all, but I am very grateful to the family for saving me, allowing me to embark on the path of immortal cultivation."


    "But I''m not content, I don''t want to fall just like this, I want eternal life, I want to go further!"


    "So, Little Seven, I''m sorry, I did indeed harbor some crooked thoughts in my heart! But I truly want to go... further!"


    Lin Shimo spoke candidly, his eyes brimming with guilt and longing.


    "When Uncle Thirty-Two died at the hands of a Demon Cultivator, I told myself that I must reach Foundation Establishment, so from that moment on, I switched to practicing the Corpse Training Decree, even if there was a chance of deviating into madness in the future, I had no other choice, I am just a normal Fourth Spirit Root!" Lin Shimo spoke again, and this time, both Lin Shiming and Lin Shiyi were shocked.


    You have to know, the family''s records said that Lin Shimo was a Third Spirit Root, and Lin Shiming and the others had always believed Lin Shimo to be a Third Spirit Root as well.


    And indeed, Lin Shimo''s cultivation speed was indeed that of a normal Third Spirit Root.


    Lin Shiming wanted to speak, but found that at this moment, he had no words to say, as everyone''s path of immortal cultivation is different. Compared to Lin Shimo, his own path of cultivation was evidently much smoother.


    "Little Seven, when you guys go back, I won''t return. I have decided to join the Corpse Refining Sect of Yan Country, I want to establish my Foundation, I want the Purple Mansion!" Lin Shimo said these words while clenching his teeth, having made a great resolution.


    The family raised him, taught him, and helped him onto the path of immortal cultivation.


    Now, he was about to leave the family to seek his own path.


    To put it unpleasantly, he was being an ingrate.


    But he had no other choice.


    Lin Shiming looked at him with a calm expression. Leaving the family was naturally a big taboo in a Cultivator Family, something they have been taught since childhood, but he truly did not know how to persuade him.


    Everyone has their own path of immortal cultivation, and he could not force others.


    However, Lin Shiyi was utterly baffled, saying to him, "Fourth brother, how can you leave the family? The family can help you establish your Foundation too!"


    "Second brother, thank you, but my mind is made up!" Lin Shimo shook his head, looking apologetically at Lin Shiyi.


    Among the members of the Lin family of his generation, Lin Shimo was closest to Lin Shiyi and Lin Shijie.


    "Or, you could kill me!"

 Chapter 69 The Remnants of the Huang Family

    In a certain valley of the Qingyun Mountain Range, silence prevailed at this moment.


    Lin Shiyi gazed at Lin Shiming, who had closed his eyes, filled with confusion.


    "Fourth brother, even if you choose to leave, we wouldn''t kill you. You can return to the family after achieving Foundation Establishment," he said.


    Lin Shiming did not answer, nor did he open his eyes.


    Lin Shiming knew that Lin Shiming''s words were addressed to him, as he was almost certain to be the next Family Head.


    He considered himself not to be soft-hearted, yet he couldn''t bring himself to act against his own brothers.


    He knew that Lin Shiming believed he couldn''t get a Foundation Establishment Pill before the age of sixty, not with him, Lin Shijie, and Lin Shitao around. Even if the family obtained a Foundation Establishment Pill every ten years, it wouldn''t be his turn.


    Though Lin Shiming was not pleased with Lin Shiming''s decision, it truly was Lin Shiming''s only option for Foundation Establishment.


    Joining a Sect would at least provide many more opportunities to acquire a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Fourth brother is being too serious," Lin Shiming finally spoke after a long silence, then he continued,


    "I implore fourth brother to make a Heavenly Dao oath not to reveal the slightest bit about the Lin Family!"


    Lin Shiming did not mention the family had a Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree, a form for Foundation Establishment Pills, and even a Third Rank Alchemist.


    Lin Shiming had chosen a pathpletely opposite to that of Fifth Uncle Lin Houyong; therefore, the consequences should be different.


    Once you choose the wrong path, there''s no turning back.


    Otherwise, it would be too unfair to those cultivators who are devoted to the family.


    Seeing that Lin Shiming made no move to attack, Lin Shiming immediately took the Heavenly Dao oath.


    "Fourth brother, hand over the Family Token to me," Lin Shiming requested, taking Lin Shiming''s Family Token back.


    The Lin Family did not have a Spirit n genealogy or a Soul Slip to determine the life and death of their members. They only had the Family Token. If the Family Token was destroyed or went long without spiritual energy infusion, it represented the death of a family member.


    "Alright, fourth brother!" Lin Shiming said as he cut the Family Token in half with his sword.


    "Seventh brother, Second brother, I found this clue in the Qian Family of Hetian County; I hope it''s helpful!" Lin Shiming tossed a Jade Slip to Lin Shiming and then strode away with great steps.


    He didn''t divide up the Sabretooth Tiger or the Bone-Tempering Flower, signifying that this venture was effectively his final farewell.


    He sought out Lin Shiming only to prove himself.


    But even that attempt at proof had failed¡­


    Upon receiving the Jade Slip, Lin Shiming probed it with his Divine Sense and was shocked to discover that it contained information about the remaining Qi Cultivation Elder of the Huang Family.


    The Qi Cultivation Elder had taken some of the Huang Family''s talented cultivators to open an Artifact Refining shop in the market of Hetian County under the Qian Family and had already formed a marital alliance with them, though they maintained a very low profile.


    This news was of utmost importance to the Lin Family, for if the Huang Family remnants were not eliminated, the matters of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion might be leaked.


    "Thank you, fourth brother. You are wee to visit anytime," Lin Shiming and Lin Shiyi said in unison, cupping their fists in gratitude.


    "Seventh brother," Lin Shiyi''s mood clearly dampened after Lin Shiming''s departure.


    "Second brother, keep it up. Great-grandfather has always been looking forward to seeing you surpass him in the realm of Body Cultivation!" Lin Shiming cut him off before Lin Shiyi could say more, blocking whatever Lin Shiyi intended to say next.


    "Mm-hm!" Thetter nodded, having thought of something, but ultimately chose not to say more.


    Then Lin Shiming spoke again:


    "Let''s go, second brother, I''ve found another opportunity!"


    Lin Shiming led Lin Shiyi toward the cliffs deep in the valley. The base of the cliffs was all stone, but at the top, there was a stretch of green nts. Beyond that, to their delight, they also discovered some spirit flowers and spirit grass amidst them.


    A few spirit bees, the size of thumbs, were buzzing around the spirit flowers.


    "What are those?" Lin Shiyi asked in surprise.


    "Seeker Bees! Second Rank Inferior Grade spirit bees, with the queen reaching up to the mid Second Rank." Lin Shiming exined, his heart brimming with joy.


    These Seeker Bees were extremely adept at brewing spirit honey and were easy to tame. All that was needed was to enve the mid Second Rank queen with a Blood Covenant.


    The only downside was their slow reproduction rate, which did not allow for quickly expanding their numbers. Especially rare was the emergence of a new queen. Yet, even so, they were priceless treasures in the market.


    After all, which cultivator doesn''t have descendants? Breeding Seeker Bees meant being able to produce spirit honey, which is an absolute boon for their offspring when taking elixirs.


    "Little Seventh, how far can you project your Divine Sense?" Lin Shiyi, also somewhat excited, couldn''t help but admire and became curious about the range of Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense, as getting to the valley, let alone the Sabretooth Tiger''s cave, was not close by any means.


    "Not very far, my Golden Luan Eagle just happened to see it!" Lin Shiming directly med it on the Golden Luan Eagle, then, riding his sword, flew towards the cliff.


    Lin Shiyi followed suit, and soon the two of them reached the mountaintop.


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming and hispanion, the spirit bees immediately entered a state of alert, circling in the air to signal each other.


    In the blink of an eye, even more spirit bees arrived.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming finally spotted the Seeker Bees'' hive on a barren tree branch.


    All the spirit bees swarmed towards Lin Shiming, attacking en masse, with their aggression escting markedly when a queen, evidentlyrger than the others, appeared.


    But then, Lin Shiming took out the Five Elements g, and a barrage of water spheres surged forth, scattering the Seeker Bees in disarray. A final freezing spell directly encased the queen in ice.


    The Seeker Bee queen, being merely mid Second Rank, could not withstand the attack of the Supreme Grade magic artifact, the Five Elements g.


    Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Beast Bag and first captured the queen inside it, then proceeded to collect the other Seeker Bees one by one.


    Lin Shiming checked them with great care, as every single bee was precious to him.


    There were roughly three hundred ny-two bees in total. Sadly, eight died unintentionally during the capture process; otherwise, the number would have been exactly four hundred.


    Compared with ordinary swarms that could number in the tens of thousands, this count of spirit bees seemed very small. But the number of these Seeker Bees was actually quite considerable.


    Lin Shiming rose on his sword, retrieved the hive the size of a grindstone from the tree branch, which still contained many beervae as well as about three to four jin of spirit honey.


    After securing the beervae, Lin Shiming carefully picked all the spirit flowers, thinking that whether he sold them or transnted them to Fangmu Mountain for his own bees to harvest, it was a good choice either way.


    "Second brother, let''s head back. We need to report the remnants of the Huang Family to Uncle Ancestor Seven and the elders!" Lin Shiming was the first to suggest.


    Lin Shiyi naturally had no objections. His primary goal of obtaining the Bone-Tempering Flower had been achieved, and before reaching the eighthyer of Qi Cultivation, he reckoned he wouldn''t need to search for body refinement spiritual medicine.


    As for the spirit vein here, Lin Shiming took out a small Spirit Concealing Formation g, concealing the Second Rank Inferior Grade spirit vein, waiting for a good opportunity for their fifth uncle, Lin Houyong, to relocate it.


    Although a Second Rank Inferior Grade spirit vein would not impact Fangmu Mountain too significantly, transnting it to the sub-peaks surrounding Fangmu Mountain could indeed expand the Lin Family''s medicinal garden.

 Chapter 70 : 70: Spiritual Honey

    ```


    Council Hall, Lin Houyuan stood atop the main hall, with the Great Elder Lin Yuqing, Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng, and Sixth Elder Lin Houyong all present.


    The few initially congratted Lin Houyuan, then turned their solemn gaze towards Lin Shiming.


    The news brought by Lin Shiming was of great importance. If the remnants of the Huang Family truly hid within the Qian Family, there would be much for the Lin Family to consider.


    The Qian Family, like the Lin Family and Huang Family, was a Foundation Establishment family n, and was even older than the Lin Family, holding a significant rtionship with the Qingxuan Sect. Huang''s remnants hiding in Hetian County were akin to cultivators taking refuge in Xing County, under the Lin Family''s protection.


    It would be difficult for outsiders to enter, and the members of the Lin Family were still unaware whether their opportunity had been shared with the Qian Family.


    If the Qian Family was already informed and had preemptively notified the Qingxuan Sect, the Lin Family would need to decide on a course of action.


    "Fifth Uncle, dispatch someone to hire a Loose Cultivator to investigate in Hetian County. Verify whether the information is true!" Lin Houyuan began to instruct one by one.


    "Understood, Family Head!" Lin Yuzheng responded affirmatively.


    Subsequently, Lin Houyuan then turned to Lin Houyong and said:


    "Fifth Brother, you''re a Spirit-Seeking Master; I must trouble you to transnt the Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Vein back here. Also, this is my insight into Foundation Establishment. Although it may not be as good as Seventh Great-Uncle''s, I believe you will find it useful!"


    Upon seeing the Jade Slip, Lin Houyong''s face was immediately filled with joy. Lin Shiming had already mentioned to him that the family had the prospect of obtaining a Foundation Establishment Pill within two years. Now, with the insight into Foundation Establishment, his confidence grew a further threefold.


    "Yes, thank you, Family Head!"


    With Lin Houyong stepping down, Lin Houyuan turned his attention to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, you did well this time. However, as for Shimo''s funeral arrangements, you handle them!"


    Lin Shiming had already discussed with Lin Shiyi, agreeing to unify their story to say that Lin Shimo met with an ident.


    "Yes!" Lin Shiming replied.


    Regarding Lin Shimo, there really were no direct rtives in the Lin Family, but Lin Shiming would record the mortal family of Lin Shimo. If someone from the mortal family disyed a Spirit Root, they could inherit Lin Shimo''s Contribution Points within the Lin Family.


    After handling the affairs, Lin Shiming left the Council Hall and returned to his cave dwelling near the Qinglian Pool, taking out the Spirit Beast Bag.


    He prepared the necessary Spirit Water and Spirit Patterns for the Blood Covenant.


    The Queen Bee was still encased in the ice spell, its spirit significantly weaker than before, its entire head drooping, a far cry from the ferocious queen that dominated the valley.


    Lin Shiming hastily drew the Blood Covenant Spirit Formation, then dripped his Essence Blood. Afterward, he released the ice spell on the Queen Bee; the Spirit Contract Blood Formation immediately enveloped it.


    A short whileter, the Blood Covenant wasplete, and Lin Shiming felt an indistinct connection with the Queen Bee.


    This process, like the previous contract with the Red-haired beast, required some time.


    Having contracted the Spirit-Seeking Bee Queen, Lin Shiming finally breathed a sigh of relief, confident that it wouldn''t be half a month before they could start harvesting honey.


    After securing the Bee Queen, Lin Shiming dealt with the Spirit-Seeking Bees; with the Queen calming them, the bees became much more docile.


    With the Spirit Bees properly dealt with, the next task was the processing of the Spirit Grass and Spirit Flowers. During this trip to the Sabretooth Tiger Valley, all the Bone-Tempering Flowers were given to Lin Shiyi, and the Sabretooth Tiger cubs as well. In exchange, he received other Spirit Flowers, Spirit Grass, and the Spirit-Seeking Bees.


    As for the Sabretooth Tiger carcasses, they divided them equally between them.


    Lin Shiming had intended to allocate some of the Spirit-Seeking Bees to Lin Shiyi, but he was cheerfully refused, epting only a catty of Spirit Honey instead.


    In summary, the gains from this expedition were even greater than Lin Shiming had anticipated.


    Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Honey, which was as thick as syrup.


    Unlike ordinary honey, Spirit Honey had an enchanting Spiritual Energy, and if one observed carefully, they would notice that, like Spirit Water, it contained imperceptible Spirit Patterns flowing within.


    ```


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath, only to feel a burst of honey fragrance interwoven with hundreds of flowers, followed by a surge of spiritual energy within his body.


    He took out a small bottle, filled it with a little less than half a taels of spirit honey, and then took out a Green Spirit Pill. He mixed it with adle of Spirit Water and swallowed it down.


    All of a sudden, the spiritual energy in his body exploded by leaps and bounds, following the cultivation route of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, one by one refining it.


    Minor Cirction, Grand Cirction.


    Lin Shiming had never achieved such a feat in one breath before. Naturally, practicing cultivation after consuming elixirs made progress by leaps and bounds.


    However, whenever he used to take a Green Spirit Pill in the past, the umtion of pill toxins required at least a half month to dissipate.


    After taking them frequently, it wasmon to need a two to three month buffer.


    But when taken together with spirit honey, the pill toxins were pitifully small; he could even take several pills in a row without issues.


    After a day passed, Lin Shiming felt it wasparable to a month of arduous cultivation.


    Thinking of this, he understood why disciples of The Great Sects sometimes establish their Foundation at the age of twenty or thirty, and why it seems easier for major families with Purple Mansion or Golden Core members.


    Clearly, those direct disciples of The Great Sects have had ess to resources beyond his imagination since childhood. Establishing Foundation at thirty, even twenty, means an incredibly long remaining lifespan. Even those with lesser aptitude could advance in the four arts of cultivation given such an extended period.


    And for those with stronger aptitudes, stepping onto the powerful cultivation arts of The Great Sects, they grew even stronger. The strong get stronger!


    How could such sects not prosper?


    Lin Shiming pondered deeply in his heart and also began to focus on cultivation.


    By nature, he was a cultivator who practiced diligently and had a great sense of urgency about achieving Foundation Establishment. Without dual spirit roots, no one could be arrogant enough to be certain of breaking through to Foundation Establishment.


    After all, there is also the possibility of failure when taking Foundation Establishment Pills, so Lin Shiming always set a goal for himself to reach the ninth level of Qi Cultivation before the age of forty, to have two opportunities for Foundation Establishment. Even if he failed once, he could try again.


    Besides, the family was also in crisis at this moment.


    Spring went and autumn came, and another half-year of arduous cultivation passed.


    Next to the Qinglian Pool, there stood a giant branch filled with clusters, and on these branches, a huge beehive.


    Around the beehive, countless spiritual bees buzzed incessantly.


    At this moment, the tightly closed cave dwelling finally opened, and a young cultivator walked out at a leisurely pace.


    It was Lin Shiming, half a yearter, whose spiritual power was still at the seventh level of Qi Cultivation and had not broken through to the eighth level.


    The spirit honey was used up, the spirit pills were gone, and even the Spirit Water was in short supply.


    However, arge amount of Green Spirit Pills coupled with the effects of spirit honey were indeed very good. In less than a year, Lin Shiming progressed from the early seventh level of Qi Cultivation to theter stage.


    This half year of arduous cultivation was equivalent to the progress of five or six years'' practice.


    If it weren''t for running out of spirit honey, he would even continue cultivating to break through to the eighth level of Qi Cultivation.


    Lin Shiming approached the beehive to inspect it and found that in half a year, there was only half a catty of spirit honey inside the beehive, which disappointed him. There were already four hundred spirit bees, but their production for half a year was so little.


    It should be noted that Fangmu Mountain had Spirit Peach Trees, Green Lotus, and an abundance of spiritual flowers.


    Of course, he also understood that spiritual bees needed spirit honey as food as well.


    "Father''s Foundation Establishmentpetition must being up," Lin Shiming muttered to himself, and then he flew towards Treasure Pavilion.

 Chapter 71 : 71 Preparations for the Conference

    Fangmu Mountain, Treasure Pavilion.


    Compared to before, the number of people at the Treasure Pavilion had diminished considerably, obviously due to the Foundation Establishment conference, as many from the Lin Family had gone to Xing County to visit the market.


    However, the decoration of the Treasure Pavilion seemed to have been adjusted, appearing even more grand and imposing than before.


    Of course, the formations had also be moreplicated.


    It was clear that Second Uncle had once again improved and heightened the formations at the Treasure Pavilion.


    The person in charge of guarding the pavilion had been reced by another Lin of the younger generation, Lin Houyou, the 28th uncle, who was also an array master, albeit an intermediate grade of the second rank, still some way behind Second Uncle, Lin Houshou, in terms of skill.


    Lin Shiming went as usual to collect his stipend, and at the same time, checked to see if there were any good treasures in the Treasure Pavilion.


    Having established several merits before, Lin Shiming still had seven or eight thousand contribution points at this time.


    However, after looking around, he noticed that the magical materials and treasures were considerably fewer, and the second rank superior grade Heavenly Heart Wood he was interested in was also not there.


    As for exchanging for a supreme grade magic artifact, there was no necessity for that either.


    In the end, Lin Shiming did not exchange for any treasures; instead, he exchanged for three thousand spirit stones.


    "Shiming, you could go take a look at the family''s auction in Xing County. There are still many treasures to be had. While the auction has yet to start, perhaps you could intercept some gains beforehand," Lin Houyou saw Lin Shiming''s disappointment and couldn''t help but suggest.


    Lin Shiming nodded his head, took his leave from Lin Houyou, and flew towards Xing County on his flying sword.


    The Xing County Square Market was located deep within a bamboo forest nestled between two small mountains, renowned for the toughness of its bamboo, also known as iron bamboo.


    The iron bamboo leaves were extremely dense, the branches upright and tall, and from a distance, they added a sense of quiet and mysterious charm to the market.


    The bamboo forest''s formation, usually tightly closed, was now wide open, and many Qi Cultivators and loose cultivators were walking along the bamboo path towards the depth of the forest.


    Lin Shiming also descended from his flying sword and headed towards the Xing County Square Market.


    He quickly found forty to fifty houses deep within the bamboo forest, ten of which had been newly constructed for the Foundation Establishment conference.


    It should be known that the original Xing County Square Market used to be merely a Qi Cultivator market without the presence of Foundation Establishment cultivators to oversee it, which made many artifact refiners and alchemy masters among the loose cultivators reluctant toe, fearing they might encounter evil cultivators who would forcefully im the market.


    The Foundation Establishment conference generally consisted of three parts: the festivities, the lectures, and the auction!


    The month before the festivities, the renting fee for the stalls would be waived, and the rent for the shops would be reduced.


    Therefore, Lin Shiming saw numerous stalls along the way, with even themercial streets being bustling with activity.


    Lin Shiming went directly through the main street and arrived at the Lin Family''s two-story auction house.


    His father as well as the old n leader, Lin Xianzhi, were both there.


    Today, Lin Houyuan was dressed quite festively, while the old n leader was still wearing the Lin Family''s green tunic robe.


    "I pay my respects to Seventh Great-Uncle, Father! And to all the elders," Lin Shiming stepped forward to greet them with a bow.


    After the greetings, Lin Shiming stood to the side and quietly listened to the Fifth Elder, Lin Yuzheng, as he was making arrangements.


    From the fruits and drinks for the celebration to the items for auction at the big event, everything was being reported in detail.


    This time, it was for the purpose of improving the family''s finances while also boosting the poprity of Xing County Square Market. Therefore, every procedure was carried out with extreme caution, allowing no room for ambiguity or mistakes.


    Otherwise, if targeted by the Li Family of Huangyun Mountain, it would lead to an increasingly significant impact. By that time, it''s estimated that people like Lin Shiming would greatly increase in number.


    Lin Yuzheng, as the elder in charge of the Lin Family''smercial caravan, truly impressed Lin Shiming with some of his business strategies.


    Especially one strategy aimed atte-stage Qi Cultivators and Qi Cultivation families, using these cultivators'' desire to reduce shop rent and proposing that if they could provide auction items ranked in the top ten, they would be exempt from ten years of rent.


    Ten years'' rent is at least a thousand Spirit Stones, equivalent to a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact.


    Therefore, this time the Lin Family''s own auction items amounted to only twenty pieces, whereas those from Loose Cultivators and Qi Cultivation families totaled thirty pieces. Additionally, once Foundation Establishment families arrive, some Foundation Establishment cultivators are also likely to provide auction items.


    After making these arrangements, Lin Shiming himself reaped great rewards.


    "Shiming, do you think anything needs to be added?" Lin Xianzhi nodded in satisfaction, but when he saw Lin Shiming by his side, he couldn''t help but ask.


    "Reporting to Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming believes that we could auction off a newly-made Third Rank Magic Artifact," Lin Shiming suggested after some thought.


    "Oh?" Lin Xianzhi looked at Lin Shiming with curiosity upon hearing the mention of a Third Rank Magic Artifact.


    The other elders were also surprised, particrly Lin Yutie, as he had recently crafted a Third Rank Flying Sword and was indeed the Third Rank Artifact Refiner of the Lin Family.


    However, for a Qi Cultivator to produce a Third Rank Magic Artifact was nothing short of shocking and scandalous. If word got out, it would be like dropping the Lin Family into a pit of fire.


    At this moment, Lin Houyuan also looked puzzledly at his son.


    Lin Shiming did not speak hastily; instead, he looked towards the patriarch and then around him.


    "Don''t worry, a Third Rank Soundproofing Formation has been set up, and with the Seventh Great-Uncle present, even Foundation Establishment cultivators would not be able to eavesdrop!" The Eighth Elder Lin Houshou answered Lin Shiming.


    Lin Xianzhi also nodded at Lin Shiming, encouraging him to continue.


    "Reporting to Seventh Great-Uncle, auctioning the Third Rank Magic Artifact serves two purposes. First, Shiming believes that a big reason why Xing County Square Market is less popr than Qingyun Square Market is the absence of Foundation Establishment cultivators and Third Rank Magic Artifacts.


    A ce without Third Rank Magic Artifacts naturally won''t attract Loose Cultivators seeking high cost-effectiveness Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts. Additionally, if we want the market to grow and attract Foundation Establishment Loose Cultivators as buyers, the profit in Spirit Stones would naturally be far more significant."


    "Second, the Third Rank Magic Artifact would naturally be sold in my father''s name, and if people from the Qian Family show up, we can probe and see if they have found out the secret of the Huang Family!"


    This point was the most crucial. After Lin Shiming finished speaking, all the elders fell into deep thought.


    They soon all started to agree.


    Indeed, the reason the Lin Family was treading on thin ice was the secret of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion. If this matter were leaked, the Lin Family would have nothing left to rely on, and even the Qingxuan Sect would demand ountability from the Lin Family.


    Using the Formation Artifact Manual to probe was indeed the best move at this moment.


    Moreover, Lin Houyuan''s breakthrough in Foundation Establishment and his previous status as an Intermediate Grade, Second Rank Artifact Refiner meant that it wouldn''t be an issue for him to temporarily take on the role of a Third Rank Artifact Refiner.


    "Good. We''ll do as Shiming has suggested!" Lin Xianzhi finally made the decision with a firm strike of his hand.


    After the meeting, the Fourth Elder Lin Yutie and the Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng took charge of arranging the auction, the Sixth Elder Lin Houyong was responsible for receiving the various Foundation Establishment cultivators, and the Seventh Elder Lin Houyong took care of the family celebration and preaching arrangements.


    The Eighth Elder Lin Houshou was in charge of security in the square market and checking the normal operation of the various formations.


    Lin Shiming then approached the Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng to see if there were any items suitable for him.


    Particrly, he was interested in the precious heart of Heavenly Wood. Having experienced the benefits of the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, Lin Shiming now greatly desired a higher grade of Heavenly Wood''s heart.

 Chapter 72 Reunion with an Old Friend

    After the event, Lin Shiming followed Lin Yuzheng to a private room. There was a table in the room, where several people of the Shi generation were busy arranging some Spirit Fruits.


    During the auction, they nned to emte the auction in Qingxuan City: Foundation Establishment families would each be presented with some Second Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Fruits, while Qi Cultivation families and Loose Cultivators would be offered some First Rank Spirit Fruits infused with a portion of Spiritual Energy.


    Next to the two Cultivators, another Daoist of the Hou generation was meticulously organizing the treasures for the auction, with a serious expression on his face.


    "Hou Yuan, give me the estimated list of auction items, along with the alternative selections!" Lin Yuzheng said to a slightly plump Cultivator.


    He then received two Jade Slips from thetter.


    One of these Jade Slips contained the introduction and list of the primary auction items, while the other contained the introduction and list of the secondary auction items.


    Lin Yuzheng handed both to Lin Shiming for his review.


    These treasures had actually been inspected by all the Elders. If they encountered items they needed, they wouldmunicate with the family and the owner of the auction items.


    Sometimes, with a high enough offer, they could secure the items in advance, so no one found this strange.


    "Thank you, Great Uncle Wu!" After thanking him, Lin Shiming also took the Jade Slips with both hands and began to examine them, and soon his eyesnded on a Second Rank Superior Grade Heart of Heavenly Wood.


    What delighted Lin Shiming even more was that this Heart of Heavenly Wood also possessed Spirit Intelligence, from a wooden demon.


    In this world, there were Spirit Beasts, and naturally, there were also wooden demons that had developed Spirit Intelligence by chance. These demons could also absorb and refine Spiritual Energy for cultivation.


    Compared to Spirit Beasts, wooden demons were even rarer, and it was said that the hearts of wooden demons with Spirit Intelligence could be used to enhance the grade of Spirit nts.


    This made the hearts of wooden demons with Spirit Intelligence even more valuable. For example, the Lin Family could use one to attempt to upgrade a Second Rank Intermediate Grade or a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Peach Tree.


    Of course, there was a possibility of failure in the upgrade, but the rarity of a wooden demon''s heart was evident.


    However, in the world of cultivation, encountering a wooden demon, most wouldn''t kill it in its prime to harvest its heart, but would instead utilize it, helping the demon increase its grade, at the very least to the Third Rank.


    A heart of a Second Rank Superior Grade wooden demon was considered quite rare.


    The Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique also mentioned that a Spirit Seed of Heavenly Wood with Spirit Intelligence could even aid Cultivators in their cultivation, able to autonomously refine Spiritual Energy.


    And one should know that the heart of a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Purple Cloak Wood could already triple his storage of Spiritual Energy.


    Swith the Second Rank Superior Grade, at the very least, it could improve by another one or two times.


    With such a terrifying increase, his Spiritual Energy might even surpass that of someone at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    For Lin Shiming, it was an absolute must-have.


    Yet, in the next moment, Lin Shiming discovered that the Heart of Heavenly Wood was not offered by his own family, but was instead brought by a Loose Cultivator for the auction.


    The aim was obviously to earn a decade-long concession from the Lin Family.


    The price of this Heart of Heavenly Wood would definitely rank in the top ten, considering the Lin Family only had three items equivalent to the Third Rank to offer.


    "Uncle Thirty, do you know who the Loose Cultivator offering this Heart of Heavenly Wood is?" Lin Shiming asked Lin Yuzheng.


    Lin Yuzheng then looked towards Lin Houyuan.


    The round-faced Lin Houyuan didn''t hesitate and immediately shared what he knew:


    "He is a Beast Taming Loose Cultivator with a peculiar temperament. He came to the market half a month ago, opened a Spirit Meat shop there, and still resides in the market. He will bring the Heart of Heavenly Wood tomorrow!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming asked Lin Houyuan much more about the Loose Cultivator, and decided to go with Lin Houyuan the next day.


    After everything was nned, he suppressed the excitement in his heart and continued to look through the remaining treasures'' introductions and details.


    Although there were several treasures that simrly enticed him afterwards, the heart of the Heavenly Wood remained the most urgent necessity. His Spirit Stones were not sufficient to continue making exchanges, so he returned the Jade Slip and bid Lin Yuzheng farewell.


    And then he headed to the room the Lin Family had arranged for him.


    Once back in his room, he began to examine his treasures, preparing to sell some of the magic artifacts that were temporarily of no use to him.


    He currently had a Second Rank Supreme Grade Green Sky Sword for his sword, a Second Rank Supreme Grade Thick Earth Shield for defense, along with a Second Rank Supreme Grade Five Elements Tower, and a Second Rank Supreme Grade Profound Soul Needle.


    Speaking of the Profound Soul Needle, it was actually part of a trap set by the Huang Family. The Profound Soul Needle came in a set of two, as a suite of magic artifacts capable of sensing each other to a certain extent. This was also why the Huang Family cultivator didn''t bid against him that one time, and why the Huang Family sought him out afterwards.


    These few magic artifacts, naturally, he did not consider selling. The rest of the magic artifacts were mostly Superior Grade, many of which he had already phased out, including Spirit Seeds like ironwood spikes and Snake Vine Flowers. He was no longer particrly interested in Superior Grade weapons.


    That day, Lin Shiming disposed of some unused magic artifacts and some other useless items.


    After amassing five thousand Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming finally felt at ease.


    He didn''t go out again that day but quietly practiced his cultivation, waiting for the following day to arrive.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Lin Shiming found his thirtieth uncle, Lin Houyuan, and followed thetter to thergest shop in Xing County Square Market, the Lin Family''smercial enterprise.


    The two waited in a private room for a long time. During this period, many cultivators holding treasures, all eager to have their items auctioned, delivered them to the Lin Family.


    Finally, around noon, a middle-aged cultivator with a spirit-sealing face veil walked in.


    As soon as the cultivator entered, Lin Houyuan stood up to greet him:


    "Daoist Wu, you have finally arrived."


    "Wu is but a rough Loose Cultivator, unworthy of Deacon Lin''s warm reception," the middle-aged man said, clearly skeptical of Lin Houyuan''s enthusiasm.


    Lin Shiming, however, felt an intense sense of familiarity with the middle-aged man before him.


    And when the middle-aged cultivator caught Lin Shiming sizing him up, his body visibly tensed.


    He clearly recognized Lin Shiming, a subtle movement that the fully attentive Lin Shiming naturally noticed.


    Eventually, his gaze lingered on the middle-aged cultivator''s hand, which kept touching the wrist area.


    Lin Shiming finally remembered: this man was the middle-aged cultivator from Qingxuan City who had sold him the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe.


    What Lin Shiming found unbelievable, however, was that this man no longer wore a Storage Bracelet and his cultivation level had changed to the Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    But his subconscious habit of touching the Storage Bracelet was caught by Lin Shiming.


    And that tremor served as the best evidence.


    "Daoist Wu, allow me to introduce myself, Lin Shiming of the Lin Family. You remember me, don''t you?" Lin Shiming smiled faintly. Back in Qingxuan City, he had worn the Lin Family''s n attire, so naturally there was no need to hide his identity now.


    Learning that this man was the same cultivator who had sold him the pill recipe only boosted Lin Shiming''s confidence,


    and lent a usible exnation for the heart of the Heavenly Wood¡ªthe people from the Spirit Beast Sect raising a wooden demon was quite normal.


    But it also indicated another issue: the disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect that this Daoist Wu had killed was probably not ordinary.


    "Daoist Lin seems unfamiliar to me. I am not sure what you mean," the man who went by Daoist Wu continued to feign ignorance, seemingly gambling that Lin Shiming was trying to deceive him.


    Even if Lin Shiming held some deceit in his tactic, piecing together the heart of the Heavenly Wood and the butcher shop owner, he had already confirmed his suspicion!

 Chapter 73 Normal, Im also up

    "Martial Brother Wu, there''s no need to be so tense," Lin Shiming said as he saw the middle-aged man before him visibly bing anxious. "I mean no ill will, I simply wish to inquire if you would be willing to part with your Heavenly Wood Heart. The reduced rent for the shop we from the Lin Family offered still stands."


    "What price are you offering?" The voice of Martial Brother Wu carried a discernible hint of annoyance. Last time, Lin Shiming had used the dubious origin of the Beast Rearing Art to force down the price of the elixir form by a great deal, so naturally, he harbored no good feelings toward Lin Shiming.


    Besides, this time, he was very likely to get his price undercut again!


    "How about 4,000 Spirit Stones?"


    "You must be joking with that price, Martial Brother. Even an ordinary Heavenly Wood Heart can fetch two to three thousand Spirit Stones." After saying so, the middle-aged cultivator turned and walked away, seemingly not even interested in attending the auction anymore.


    "I''ll throw in an extra half catty of Spirit Honey! Won''t you reconsider, Martial Brother?" Lin Shiming called out again.


    This time, the middle-aged cultivator finally stopped, turned around to look at Lin Shiming, and sized up his cultivation level, discovering that thetter had indeed ascended from the initial sixth level to the Qi Cultivation seventh level in the span of three years.


    "It must be a full catty of Spirit Honey," the middle-aged cultivator said.


    The price of half a catty of Spirit Honey was roughly five to six hundred Spirit Stones, but due to its rarity, it was alsomon for half a catty to be worth over a thousand Spirit Stones.


    "Only half a catty," Lin Shiming shook his head.


    "Then add another thousand Spirit Stones!" Martial Brother Wu continued to speak.


    Lin Shiming didn''t answer but simply stared at Martial Brother Wu; then, he spoke.


    "Do you really wish to put this Heavenly Wood Heart up for auction, Martial Brother Wu? Yunzhou isn''t too big, nor too small, but news of a Heavenly Wood Heart from a Second Rank Wood Demon will certainly travel far."


    Lin Shiming emphasized the words "Second Rank" heavily.


    Upon hearing this, the middle-aged cultivator, who clearly hadn''t considered this before, thought back and suddenly red fiercely at Lin Shiming.


    If he had been uncertain in Qingxuan City whether Lin Shiming had caught onto something, now he waspletely certain that Lin Shiming had guessed the rough origins of his treasures.


    "Fine! But I would hope that Martial Brother Lin could keep the identity of the seller confidential. Should I have other treasures in the future, I will also consider the Lin Family," the cultivator agreed, not insisting any further on negotiating.


    Lin Shiming readily agreed as well, for the Elixir recipe he had obtained was to remain a secret, so naturally, he wouldn''t reveal it. On the contrary, he was wary of Martial Brother Wu.


    After taking out the Spirit Stones and half a catty of Spirit Honey for inspection by Mister Wu, Lin Shiming watched as he produced a Jade Box.


    A Spirit Talisman was also affixed to the box.


    "Inspect it yourself, Martial Brother. Once the transaction isplete, I will not ept any returns," Mister Wu stated.


    Lin Shiming took the Jade Box, carefully removed the Spirit Talisman, and opened the lid to reveal a Radiant Heart of Red Wood, carrying a persistent aura belonging to a Wood Demon.


    Having secured the Red Wooden Heart, Lin Shiming finally allowed himself a sigh of relief, while Mister Wu turned promptly and left.


    Disappearing at the end of the street.


    "Thank you very much, Uncle Thirty!" After sessfully acquiring the Heavenly Wood Heart, Lin Shiming bowed his thanks to Lin Hou Yuan.


    "He harbored murderous intentions towards you," Lin Hou Yuan nodded, but his gaze continuously drifted to the distance while ncing at Lin Shiming, and he reminded.


    Lin Shiming watched as Uncle Thirty calmly spoke, not surprised; instead, he gazed intently in the direction where the middle-aged cultivator had vanished.


    "That''s normal, after all, I harbored the same intentions," Lin Shiming replied calmly, even taking out the Jade Box from before and carefully examining it in his hands.


    He was certain there was something wrong with this Jade Box.


    The Mister Wu desired to kill him, but did he not wish to kill Mister Wu as well?


    In the world of cultivation, the primary rule is to preserve oneself, ''every man for himself and the heavens take the hindmost.''


    By dealing with it, no need to worry about the leak of the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe.


    ```


    Of course, Lin Shiming knew that he must be careful and cautious when facing this Wu-surnamed cultivator and could not treat him as an ordinary Qi Cultivator of the eighthyer.


    Core disciples from the Spirit Beast Sect had fallen into the opponent''s hands, and he had sessfully fled from the territory of the Spirit Beast Sect to that of the Qingxuan Sect, so Lin Shiming would never consider it mere luck.


    Of course, if possible, he hoped that this cultivator would remain until the auction ended, so that he could directly summon a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Stage to take action, ensuring a foolproof oue.


    Even if he had extraordinary means, he would not be able to escape.


    However, he guessed that the Wu-surnamed cultivator would leave during the lecture, which was also the time when his great-uncle and father could not get away.


    "Then give him the worst shop!" Lin Houyuan, the thirtieth uncle, spoke.


    Lin Shiming nodded in agreement, for offering the best shop would seem more likeying a trap, while giving a worse one might lower the other''s guard.


    Lin Shiming discussed with his thirtieth uncle, Lin Houyuan, for a long time. Thetter''s experience brought Lin Shiming great insights¡ªdifferent from the cultivation techniques in books, many were about the skills of social interaction, politeness, and observation.


    Cultivators can never rid themselves of the word "cultivation," and thus can never be free from worldly concerns.


    In half a day, Lin Shiming also saw many treasures brought by loose cultivators for the auction.


    He was greatly impressed by the various treasures, and while many piqued his interest, he still gave up the idea due to limited Spirit Stones.


    A day passed, and the Foundation Establishment Conference began as scheduled.


    Rednterns were everywhere in Xing County Square Market, with the liveliest ce being the square in front of the Lin family''s shops, whererge red tables, except for the central area, were already full.


    It was also the time for the Foundation Establishment families to arrive.


    "The Ling Family of Beihe wishes the Lin Family''s new Foundation Establishment disciple sess. May Daoist Lin soar up to the Purple Mansion, auspiciously presenting a hundred-year-old, Third Rank Purple Cloud Mushroom!"


    "The Tian Qian Family presents its wishes to the Lin Family''s new Foundation Establishment disciple. May Daoist Lin''s fame spread far and wide, offering a bottle of Third Rank Consolidation Pills!"


    ...


    As various Foundation Establishment families from Yunzhou came to congratte, the Lin Family also specially arranged cultivators to cheer and receive gifts from the visiting families.


    Auspicious clouds continuously appeared in the sky, with stronger families bringing more clouds.


    At that moment, nine auspicious clouds floated by.


    "Qingxuan Sect''s Xie An, on behalf of the Qingxuan Sect, presents a gift to Lin Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivator! Specially offering a Third Rank, Intermediate Grade Magic Artifact, a Thunderp Spear!"


    With the arrival of Xie An, ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, the atmosphere reached its climax.


    Lin Houyuan joined Lin Xianzhi in inviting Xie An to the main seat at the main table.


    After the Foundation Establishment families had cheered, it was time for the Qi Cultivation families and loose cultivators to offer their congrattions.


    "Qi Cultivation Family, the Xu Family, presents a hundred-year-old Second Rank ginseng!"


    "Loose Cultivator Chen Ping''an presents a hundred-year-old Fire Cloud Fruit!"


    ...


    Unlike the Foundation Establishment families, the Qi Cultivation families and loose cultivators'' congrattions did not bring auspicious clouds, and hence, Lin Family''s Qi Cultivators were responsible for guiding them to their seats.


    After everyone had finished cheering, Lin Houyuan raised his ss and began to toast all the guests at the VIP seats.


    But just then, dark clouds began to drift in the sky.


    Suddenly, several cultivators descended from the dark clouds.


    "The cultivators from the Huang Yun Li Family havee uninvited to seek a few cups of Spiritual Wine, and also to present a Second Rank Spirit Water as a gift."


    ```

 Chapter 74 Contest of Spells and Debate on the Dao

    With the arrival of the cultivators from the Li Family of Huangyun Mountain, the atmosphere instantly went from one ofplete joy among the guests to utter silence.


    Even though it was the Li Family from Huangyun, what difference did it have with the Qingyun Li Family of the Purple Mansion Family?


    The faces of Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan of the Lin Family were extremely ugly, as they naturally would not invite a branch of the Li Family that was oppressive towards them.


    Yet the uninvited hade on their own ord.


    Moreover, they arrived on a ck cloud, bringing Second Rank Spirit Water!


    This was a direct p in the face of the Lin Family, as well as pressure on all the loose cultivators, Qi Cultivation families, and slightly weaker Foundation Establishment families not to side with the Lin Family.


    If the Lin Family backed down now, they might leave an impression of weakness and ipetence to the other families.


    The move at the Xing County Square Market was pretty much ruined.


    And if they were to react too aggressively, let alone facing the Qingyun Li Family, even facing this Huangyun branch in front of them, they were significantly outssed.


    The Li Family cultivators who showed up had not only ate-stage Foundation Establishment, but also two at the early stage and fivete-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators.


    The gaze of Lin Xianzhi was terribly unsightly, and Lin Houyuan''s was even worse.


    It was at this moment that Lin Shiming took the initiative to speak:


    "May I ask the Li Family friend, arriving on ck clouds, have you changed your name to the ck Cloud Li Family, or does the Li Family now bear the sign of ck clouds?"


    "Teacher Brother Xie An from Qingxuan Sect hade to present a gift, bringing a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifact; the Li Family has brought Second Rank Spirit Water. May I also inquire if you are instructing Teacher Brother Xie in what he should do?"


    Lin Shiming''s words were piercing, aimed directly at the Li Family cultivators.


    It caused all the Li Family cultivators to look extremely ugly, being lectured by a young Qi Cultivation whippersnapper¡ªhow could they stand it? They were about to get angry.


    But then they heard Lin Houyuan''s face regain its calm as he slowly spoke:


    "It turns out to be friends from the Li Family, distant guests are nheless guests, and naturally, everyone can sit down and have a drink!"


    "As for the nonsense spouted by my inexperienced son, with your kind disposition and demeanor, there''s no need to take it to heart."


    The words of Lin Houyuan and his son were clear to the discerning listener, polite on the surface but actually a veiled insult to the Li Family cultivators.


    However, the leader of the Li Family, Li Chengli, cast a deep nce at Xie An and did not choose to continue the confrontation. Pretending to not understand, he found a table among the Foundation Establishment families and sat down with ease.


    The celebration''s minor disruption hadpletely killed the mood, and after an hour, the banquet ended.


    And the true Foundation Establishment Conference began.


    A three-meter-high tform had already been built in front of the Lin''s shop.


    Concerning the sermon, the stage for a Foundation Establishment great cultivator is three meters high, seating a thousand listeners; a Purple Mansion Hermit has a six-meter-high stage, seating ten thousand listeners; and a Golden Core True Person preaches from a nine-meter-high stage, seating one hundred thousand listeners.


    Lin Houyuan ascended the high tform and began to preach quietly.


    The Li Family did not pull any more stunts as if their sole purpose for showing up was to vex the Lin Family.


    The preaching went on smoothly, so much so that it left the Lin Family with an unsettling premonition.


    Lin Shiming, standing below the stage, was watching the Li Family intently. He absolutely did not believe that the Li Family simply came to annoy them; otherwise, after their counterattack and Xie An''s public gesture earlier, the Li Family members should have left.


    If they did not leave, it meant there was a scheme.


    The oppressive atmosphere made Lin Houyuan''s preaching somewhat strained, while Lin Shiming listened with a mixture of understanding and confusion.


    It was even worse for the other loose cultivators.


    Without any takeaway from the sermon, naturally, it did not endear them to the attendees, and their impression of future visits to the Xing County Square Market wouldn''t be favorable, even if it was influenced by the Li Family.


    But it is important to know that all who came had prepared a generous gift, and if these gifts did not yield results in the lecture, naturally, their impressions of the Lin Family wouldn''t be too favorable.


    Fortunately, after no idents urred, Lin Houyuan''s condition also adjusted in time, particrly mentioning a few points about his preparation for the breakthrough to Foundation Establishment.


    Instantly, the eyes of the Loose Cultivators at thete stage of Qi Cultivation shone brightly, watching intently without blinking.


    After speaking continuously for two hours, the lecture finally came to aplete close.


    The Loose Cultivators still seemed to have not had enough, and at this time, Li Chengli from the Li Family, who had been silent throughout, stood up again and said,


    "The lecture of our friend from the Lin Family ultimately amounts to mere armchair strategy. Why not have a match to demonstrate our skills and enlighten the fellow cultivators here?"


    Here it came, Lin Shiming''s expression shifted subtly.


    He finally understood why the Li Family had sat there quietly; their objective was this very scene.


    While the lecture was a benevolent event for themunity, at this moment, the Li Family used it to thoroughly put the Lin family on the roasting spit.


    If they refused, it would be admitting to false advertising.


    If they epted, the two Early Stage Foundation Establishment cultivators brought by Li Chengli were likely not to be underestimated.


    And his father, having just broken through, would likely, even if by chance he survived, sustain serious injuries, dashing all hopes on his cultivation path.


    This move from the Li Family was an outright stratagem.


    And the Lin Family simply couldn''t refuse.


    Even with Xie An present.


    The atmosphere suddenly became tense.


    "My father has just broken through to Foundation Establishment less than a year ago, and his foundation is not yet stable. If we are to have a debate, why not let us have a match at the level of Qi Cultivation? If your Li Family cannot even defeat a young cultivator from the Shiming generation like me, there would be no point in proceeding!"


    Just then, Lin Shiming stood up.


    Before making this statement, Lin Shiming had naturally sized up the cultivators from the Li Family. Perhaps because their original target was his father, there were no cultivators at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation among those who hade.


    Instead, there were several junior cultivators from the Li Family, with the highest amongst them only at thete Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation, and two others at the same level as him, still at the Seventh Level.


    Upon hearing this, Li Chengli''s eyes turned displeased as he looked at Lin Shiming.


    Knowing that Lin Shiming was so confident, he was aware there might be a problem ahead; after all, this was a named disciple of the Zi Xuan Hermit and it was normal for him to have some tricks up his sleeve.


    But if the Lin Family thought they could use their tricks to retaliate against the Li Family,


    Then they would be gravely mistaken. Although they hadn''t brought any elite Qi Cultivation practitioners this time, the Li Family, being of the Purple Mansion Family, had several junior cultivators who were all quite capable and fully armed.


    "Li Yuhe, why don''t you spar with the young friend from the Lin Family? Just remember to go easy; not all cultivators are elites from the Li Family," Li Chengli waved for a Qi Cultivation Eighth Level cultivator to step forward.


    This move naturally made many people internally curse Li Chengli for being despicable.


    Xie An couldn''t stand it anymore, spoke up with a displeased face, and said,


    "Li Dao friend, you are sending in Li Yuhe, yet he is at the Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation."


    By not taking the Lin Family seriously, Li Chengli was in fact, also disregarding Xie An, particrly as Li Chengli''s crackdown on the Lin Family in the Qingyun Square Market had also resulted in greatly reduced profits for Xie An.


    "Oh, I didn''t notice that this young friend was of a certain age and still at the Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation; my eyes are indeed failing!" Li Chengli suddenly burst into boisterousughter, then turned to gaze at another youth.


    "Li Yucheng, you go. You both are at the Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation, and both from Foundation Establishment families. If you can''t control your strength and identally injure him, it won''t be a problem," he said.


    Li Chengli''s tant instruction for Li Yucheng to strike harshly at Lin Shiming immediately had everyone secretly scolding the old man for his shamelessness.


    But at this moment, the pressurepletely shifted to Lin Shiming.

 Chapter 75 The Prize

    On the field, Lin Shiming watched as the fair-faced Li Yucheng calmly stepped forward, his heart growing even more cautious.


    He didn''t believe that Li Yucheng was a reluctant choice for Li Chengli; on the contrary, he felt that Li Yucheng exuded even more pressure than Li Yuhe, as if everything was premeditated.


    Lin Houyuan, who was on the stage, originally wanted to speak up to stop Lin Shiming; naturally, he didn''t agree with letting his own son rece him in taking risks.


    Even though he understood that Lin Shiming was far more excellent and outstanding than he had imagined.


    Just like he had said before, even if the sky were to fall, it wasn''t yet time for Lin Shiming to shoulder the burden.


    However, at this moment, Lin Xianzhi nced at Lin Houyuan and directly stymied any response thetter might have had, speaking up first:


    "This is eptable, but merely discussing the way is dull, why not add a little wager?"


    Lin Xianzhi understood that Lin Shiming''s strength was definitely beyond that of an average Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, not to mention with the help of a Golden Winged Mantis and a Red-haired Demon Monkey, his odds of winning were far greater than Lin Houyuan who had not yet consolidated any foundation.


    Also, based on his understanding of Lin Shiming, thetter wouldn''t make unfounded ims or act without preparation.


    He even held a bit of anticipation for Lin Shiming to create a sensation here, bringing out the momentum of the Lin Family.


    "A wager?" Li Chengli seemed to have misheard, thinking to himself, at such a time, Lin Xianzhi still couldn''t see the situation clearly¡ªcould it be that he still considered the Li Family as if they were here to offer treasures?


    One should know that Li Yucheng was a Dual Spirit Root Cultivator, ranked within the top three for cultivation in the Li Family, equipped with Supreme Grade magic artifacts and protected by Spirit Talismans; not to mention a Qi Cultivation Seventh Level, even an ordinary Qi Cultivation Ninth Level would be no match for him.


    "What sort of wager can your Lin Family afford?" Li Chengli retorted.


    "A Third Rank Demonic Beast Inner Core!" Lin Xianzhi, taking the lead, produced a Jade Box.


    As soon as the Jade Box was opened, a Demon Core full of Spirit Light and brimming with spiritual energy could be seen within, apanied by faint tiger roars.


    "Ate Third Rank Jade Spirit Tiger''s inner core, fair enough. In that case, my Li Family will stake a Third Rank Superior Grade defensive magic artifact, the Twin Dragons Jade!" Li Chengli, upon seeing the Demonic Beast Inner Core, couldn''t help but feel ted.


    Normally, Demonic Beasts only produced inner cores once they reached the Golden Core Stage at Fifth Rank, but some Demonic Beasts, blessed with extraordinary fortune, could produce inner cores at the Fourth or even Third Rank.


    The effects of these inner cores were immense; not only could they be used to assist Demonic Beasts in advancing, but they could also be used for Alchemy, with some high-level alchemy recipes essentially requiring Demonic Beast Inner Cores.


    By thete Foundation Establishment phase, typically each step is a bottleneck, and Li Chengli hadn''t expected Lin Xianzhi to put forth a Third Rank Demonic Beast Inner Core.


    To suppress the Lin Family, he unhesitatingly produced an emerald embroidered with twin dragons.


    The emerald was full of spiritual energy, emitting dazzling treasure light, evidently extraordinary at first nce.


    The appearance of both treasures on the field caused the Loose Cultivators and the Qi Cultivation families to stir with excitement.


    Whether a Third Rank Demonic Beast Inner Core or Twin Dragons Jade, both were treasures worth hundreds of thousands, destined to fetch sky-high prices at auction¡ªyet today, they appeared at a Qi Cultivationpetition.


    This was far more extravagant than any high-stakes bet.


    By this time, many people started to take notice of Lin Shiming; his reputation wasn''t notable in the outside world, andpared to the Li Family''s Li Yucheng, everyone naturally favored thetter.


    After all, one was a Dual Spirit Root cultivator, whereas the other, although the son of Lin Houyuan, was likely to have had his family''s fortune spent by Lin Houyuan during his Foundation Establishment.


    As for the two on the stage, naturally, they didn''t notice the gazes and whispers below; at this moment, they looked at each other with profound seriousness.


    Foundation Establishment cultivators were all cunning as old foxes, so with such a high bounty, naturally no ordinary opponents would arise.


    Lin Shiming had even summoned the Red-haired Demon Monkey, a Second Rank Intermediate Grade beast at its peak that had grown another size in half a year, now towering over Lin Shiming by two whole heads. In its hand, the Profound Water Heavy Mountain was tossed effortlessly as if it were a small pebble, and in its other hand it carried a giant iron rod, looking rugged and fierce.


    Lin Shiming also took out the Five Elements Tower and the Green Sky Sword.


    In his hand, he gripped several Spirit Talismans.


    In contrast, Li Yucheng on the other side sneered and tapped his Spirit Beast Bag, causing a swarm of ck beetles to fly out from his Storage Bag.


    The ck beetles, though small in size, bared their sharp fangs, and with a sh of ck ghostly light, they surged toward Lin Shiming like a swarm.


    Then, in his hands appeared a massive ck banner which, when fluttered, filled the entire area with a dense ck fog.


    "Is this Li Yucheng a descendant of Li Chengzhi?" Lin Xianzhi felt some gravity to the situation below. He recognized the ck beetles as the Second Rank Inferior Grade Irond Beetles.


    Although they were only Second Rank Inferior Grade, with their hard exoskeletons andrge numbers, evente-stage cultivators without a way to deal with them would suffer.


    Seeing the swarm of ck beetles turning into a cloud and rushing over, Lin Shiming promptly employed the Five Elements Tower and released an ice-freezing spell directly at the beetle cloud.


    The ck beetle cloud was indeed frozen, but what was frightening was that these ck beetles continued to ferociously gnaw on the ice, quickly breaking through the icyyer and continuing to fly out.


    Lin Shiming then released a me attack, finally causing some damage to the beetles, but their numbers were simply too great, and killing a few didn''t make much difference.


    Without further hesitation, Lin Shiming threw out countless Wood Vine Technique seeds, imbued with spiritual energy for catalysis; the moment he released the Wood Vine Technique, vines surged out from all directions, wrapping around and forcefully containing the ck beetles.


    The beetles devoured, yet the vines grew faster and denser!


    "A Wood element cultivator?" Li Yucheng was slightly surprised; his insects feared fire, but their terrifying quantity was not something a mere Fireball Technique could halt. He hadn''t expected, at this moment, to be trapped by Lin Shiming''s even more abundant vines.


    "Damn it!" Li Yucheng''s expression changed drastically the next moment.


    He then saw that the beetles trapped by the vines were being set on fire by Lin Shiming.


    The endless tendrils burned, turning into a massive fireball that roasted all the ck beetles inside to a crisp.


    Li Yucheng could no longer sit still; the ck banner in his hand continuously released a ck fog that began to erode toward Lin Shiming.


    The ck fog emitted by the banner was clearly poisonous and impaired visibility as well.


    Lin Shiming had to maneuver his Spirit Shield into action.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming''s vines were eroded by the poisonous fog, turning into a heavy liquid that sizzled as it extinguished much of the fire, allowing many ck beetles to escape and continue flying towards Lin Shiming.


    Simultaneously, from the ck banner emerged several poison scorpion demon souls, each the size of a small calf, with their ck pincers shining ominously even though they were formed by spiritual energy.


    Suddenly, Lin Shiming was under tremendous pressure; the impact of the poisonous fog was far greater than his vines. Along with demon souls and the escaping ck beetles, he was in imminent peril.


    The worst part was that his Spirit Seed germination had been affected; the vines could no longer sprout, leaving only the Snake Vine Flower and Iron Thorn!


    But even the speed of their emergence was greatly slowed down, and he feared even if they did sprout, they would be corroded away by the gathering toxic fog!


    He must break Li Yucheng''s ck banner first.

 Chapter 76 : 76: Using Talismans

    Lin Shiming''s situation was dire, and Lin Houyuan below even started to clench his fists, ready to step in at any moment.


    Even if it meant viting the principles of friendlypetition, he was unwilling to let anything happen to Lin Shiming.


    Lin Xianzhi''s gaze also grew tense, although Lin Shiming had always been full of surprises, his opponent was not only a dual Spirit Root genius from the Li Family but also a Poison Cultivator, who happened to have an advantage over Lin Shiming.


    The demonic fog''s corrosive nature was too strong, rendering Lin Shiming''s seeds ineffective.


    Li Yucheng, watching Lin Shiming struggling against the assault of the scorpionic Demon Soul and ck insects, couldn''t help but reveal a smirk on the corner of his lips.


    With the Demon Banner in hand, he was confident he could drain Lin Shiming''s strength, practically standing on an invincible ground.


    Lin Shiming, a Qi Cultivation Seventh Level cultivator, was not only worrying about his Supreme Grade magic swords, Green Sky Sword and Five Elements Tower being corroded, but his Spiritual Energy wouldn''tst much longer either.


    Of course, in his eyes, Lin Shiming, despite his outward panic, had calmed down inside. What he feared least was a war of attrition.


    Not to mention one Li Yucheng, even if another Li Yuhe joined, they might not be able to oust him.


    With the Green Sky Sword and Five Elements Tower along with the Thick Earth Shield, Lin Shiming would be safe for a short while.


    His expression was mostly for Li Yucheng to see.


    Showing weakness to the enemy without any real loss, and moreover, it also served to buy time for him to think of a strategy to defeat the enemy. At this moment, Lin Shiming was oddly reminded of a game of chess by the Qinglian Pool pavilion.


    Lin Shiming took out an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone and began to replenish his Spiritual Energy.


    This moment did not escape Li Yucheng''s notice, who immediately gestured with his hands, and three Supreme Grade magic swords flew out, shooting towards Lin Shiming.


    "Can''t hold on anymore?" Lin Shiming suppressed the joy in his heart. Controlling four Supreme Grade magic artifacts would definitely exhaust the spiritual power of ate-stage Qi Cultivation cultivator, and this was the best opportunity.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey''s body began to surge with red light, and just like the Red-haired Demon Monkey of Peach Blossom Valley years ago, its Spirit Might started rising rapidly, nearly reaching thete-stage Qi Cultivation level. It charged out into the poisonous fog all of a sudden.


    The red light and the ck fog emitted continuous crackling sounds as they eroded each other, and with one raise into the sky, the monkey struck directly towards the three Supreme Grade magic swords.


    In mid-air, that small mountain which had never been thrown was viciously hurled by the Red-haired Demon Monkey, instantly swatting one Supreme Grade magic sword away, and at the same time, the remaining stick also fiercely hit the other two Supreme Grade magic swords, releasing a thunderous sword cry as the Red-haired Demon Monkey was driven back.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming threw several Spirit Talismans towards Li Yucheng.


    Most of them were Superior Grade Talismans with immense power, but Li Yucheng was not the least bit flustered. When he thought Lin Shiming was making a desperate attempt, he took out another Spirit Shield, and also directed the scorpionic Demon Soul towards Lin Shiming.


    Five Supreme Grade magic artifacts, this was Li Yucheng''s confidence.


    Countless Spirit Talismans bombarded the Spirit Shield, unable to break through its defenses.


    Thest to emerge was a Golden Sword Talisman, and with a loud bang, the Spirit Light shattered, turning into golden light that dissipated and vanished.


    However, at the next moment, Li Yucheng felt an even more intense golden light shing towards him.


    Fast, iparably fast!


    What appeared in his sight were two enormous golden scythes, savagely shing!


    The tearing sound was sharp to the ears, and it tore the Spirit Shield apart, causing a great loss of Spiritual Energy.


    Li Yucheng also finally saw what the golden Spirit Light was; it turned out to be a golden mantis the size of a small calf.


    The pair of mantis scythes were truly fearsome.


    Li Yucheng scrambled to retreat, throwing out several Defense Talismans and a Wind Attribute Escape Talisman, Wind Escape Talisman.


    This was a Wind Attribute Escape Technique Spirit Talisman, simr to the Earth Escape Talisman. Upon activation, it would vanish without a trace like a gentle breeze in an instant.


    "Indeed, a dual Spirit Root genius of the Li Family!" Witnessing this scene, Lin Shiming felt a bit surprised.


    However, that was the extent of his surprise.


    His disy of weakness was merely for show, as in his heart, he had long been calcting the endless possibilities ofbat.


    With a p of its wings, the Golden Winged Mantis turned into a beam of golden light once again.


    This time, it headed straight for the ck banner in the sky,


    After his initial shock, Li Yucheng instantly recalled his three Supreme Grade Flying Swords and Supreme Grade Spirit Shield. But by the time he tried to recall the Demon Banner, the Golden Winged Mantis had already closed in on him.


    Demon Banners, a type of Magic Artifact, are often more powerful than ordinary ones, but they are also the most vulnerable to being shed by swords or magical des.


    A tearing sound was heard, and the ck banner was sliced in half. Then Lin Shiming took out a Wind Attribute Spirit Talisman, and a gust blew, dispersing all the ck poison fog to the surroundings in an instant.


    Loose Cultivators on the ground were instantly rmed, cursing under their breath as they hastily deployed their Spirit Shields.


    Thankfully, Lin Xianzhi waved his sleeve, and a khaki-colored Storage Bag flew into the air, sucking in all the poison fog,


    Only then did the crowd rx and continue to watch the battle on stage, though their impression of Lin Shiming had worsened.


    Li Yucheng''s face turned pale, and he spat out a mouthful of bright red blood. The destruction of the Demon Banner had caused him to receive a bacsh.


    "You have sessfully angered me!" Li Yucheng was heartbroken and furious. The Demon Banner was his favorite Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, and now it had been destroyed by Lin Shiming.


    He pulled out a talisman embroidered with a small knife from his Storage Bag.


    "A talismanic treasure!"


    At this moment, everyone was stunned; someone was actually using a talismanic treasure in a friendly duel.


    Lin Houyuan also became instantly furious:


    "Li Chengli, you want a fight, do you? Then let''s have Foundation Establishment cultivators debate with life and death on the line, survival for the deeper path, demise for the shallower!"


    Lin Houyuan was truly enraged, and a Third Rank Inferior Grade Flying Sword flew straight out¡ªit was the same Third Rank sword that Lin Shiming had given to his father.


    But then, they saw Li Chengli flip his hand downward, and a huge paw-shaped Magic Artifact fiercely grabbed the Third Rank Flying Sword.


    "What''s the rush? Let''s debate the Dao. If a Qi Cultivation stage seven can unleash a talismanic treasure, then that''s also part of the strength of a Qi Cultivation stage seven!"


    Lin Xianzhi did not step forward but continued to watch the stage.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming on stage was not paying attention to the discussion below but was staring intently at Li Yucheng. He pped his Storage Bag and released a blue Lightning Leopard, and imbued the Lightning Leopard with a Wind Escape Talisman, allowing it to move freely across the field.


    Lin Shiming''s Flying Sword couldn''t even touch it, not to mention the Golden Winged Mantis who could only follow behind in frustration.


    Several Second Rank Superior Grade Defense Talismans appeared in his hand, and with a press, multiple Spirit Shields materialized around him. He then activated a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact Spirit Shield to protect himself from all angles without any blind spots.


    Afterward, he quietly began to activate the talismanic treasure. Don''t miss out on m-vl-em-pyr


    Unparalleled speed and absolute defense¡ªat that moment, he did not believe Lin Shiming had any means to stop him from catalyzing the talismanic treasure.


    All that awaited Lin Shiming was death. In the debate of paths among Cultivators, deep insight ensured survival, while shallow knowledge led to demise.


    Both were at the Qi Cultivation level seven¡ªthere was no reason to hold back!


    However, he overlooked that Lin Shiming was always a Wood Cultivator, and right then, there was no suppression of the poison fog catalyzed by the seeds!

 Chapter 77 : 77 Xie An Gets Angry

    The flickering Lightning Leopard, with its blue-green Spirit Light, captivated everyone''s attention in the arena.


    At that moment, everyone was wondering when the Lin Family would concede defeat, knowing that the power of the Spirit Talisman was not something a Qi Refinement cultivator could withstand.


    However, the expected surrender did not ur; instead, a massive storm of Spiritual Power began to form.


    Tremendous Spiritual Power surged from Lin Shiming''s hand and he pped it violently toward the ground.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was summoning Spirit nts, not just one or two, but a full ten Snake Vine Flowers and three Iron Thorns!


    With a loud roar, thirteen immense sky-piercing vines burst from the ground like a volcanic eruption and reached for the heavens.


    The Lightning Leopard in the air dodged quickly, evading three, but in such a confined space, dodging ten was clearly futile.


    Entangled firmly by a Snake Vine Flower, Li Yucheng, who was busy channeling the talisman, had no time to control his Flying Sword and could only secretly rejoice that Lin Shiming''s Snake Vine had only binding functions. He had several Spirit Talismans left, a Supreme Grade Spirit Shield, and even Superior Grade Inner Armor on him.


    So he stimted the Spirit Talisman even more fiercely.


    However, in the next moment, the ten giant Snake Vine Flowers opened their maws, dripping with ck venom.


    Almost reaching half a meter above Li Yucheng''s head, they then started to pour down the poison simultaneously.


    This was a million times more vicious than Li Yucheng''s ck banner from before.


    Apanied by loud crackling sounds, numerous Spirit Shields from the talismans perished, corroded by the venom.


    Then, as if peeling off clothes, a terrified Li Yucheng realized that amongst his defenses, only his powerful Supreme Grade Spirit Shield Magical Instrument was still standing firm.


    But in the next moment, three new Iron Thorns grew swiftly, sprouting iron spikes and transforming into a storm of spikes raining down on Li Yucheng. His mount, the Lightning Leopard, barelysted an instant before turning into a porcupine.


    At the same time, the Golden Winged Mantis and the Green Sky Sword shed fiercely towards Li Yucheng.


    The reversal of the situation also affected the hearts of the Loose Cultivators watching below. Li Chengli suddenly felt nervous; he had lost his confidence, and in a critical moment, he would undoubtedly block a sword strike for Li Yucheng.


    Losing a Third Rank Magic Artifact was no issue, but if a Dual Spirit Root Cultivator was in, he would bear great guilt.


    But at that moment, Li Yucheng''s Spirit Talisman finally nearedpletion, and a dark Spirit Knife with a ghostly glow appeared in the air.


    However, it was also at this moment when the Golden Winged Mantis and the Supreme Grade Flying Sword, the Green Sky Sword, shattered Li Yucheng''s remaining Spirit Shield and Spirit Armor.


    And that was all, Li Yucheng was forced back thirty meters, but the Spirit Talisman was ready.


    Li Yucheng''s lips curved into a smile again, including the Li Family members below the stage.


    However, what they didn''t see was that from beneath the wings of the Golden Winged Mantis, two white Silver Needles, one following the other, shot towards Li Yucheng with peerless speed.


    No one anticipated it, nor could anyone react in time.


    The Profound Soul Needles had already pierced Li Yucheng front and back, lighting up the final Spirit Talisman on his body. As thest Profound Soul Needle entered, the talisman in the sky also dissipated, turning into a Spirit Talisman that fell from the sky.


    Firing Silver Needles from a Spirit Beast.


    This utterly upended Li Yucheng''s understanding, as well as that of all the Cultivators present. Li Chengli had barely reacted, ready to make a move, only to find that Li Yucheng had already met his demise.


    The Spirit Talisman gave them all confidence, but ultimately, they were engulfed by the despair brought about by the Spirit Talisman.


    If it were the Profound Soul Needle that flew out from Lin Shiming''s body, they all would have been alert, but for it toe from a Spirit Beast, such an act was truly too treacherous.


    Who could have expected it.


    "You yellow-haired brat, it was just a debate of principles, yet you actually went for the kill!" Li Chengli instantly flew into a rage, his Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit w aimed directly and ferociously at Lin Shiming.


    But Lin Xianzhi, who had been prepared all along, swung his hand at almost the exact same moment, countless sword lights appeared and sent the Spirit w flying, leaving ripples of blooming Qinglian Sword lights.


    "A debate of principles, and we''re both at the Qi Cultivation Seventh Level, isn''t it quite normal to not hold back?" Lin Xianzhi spoke indifferently, returning Li Chengli''s words with the same tone, his gaze bearing down on thetter just as fiercely.


    Xie An also took to the air at almost the same moment. He was the most furious due to Li Chengli''s interference at such a time. As a Qingxuan Sect Deacon, he had been repeatedly provoked by Li Chengli of the Li Family.


    Almost instantly, a palm strike flew out¡ªthis was the Secret Technique Palm. This palm strike knocked Li Chengli from the sky down to the ground, leaving him covered in dust with blood streaming from the corner of his mouth.


    "A debate of principles should follow the rules of such a debate. Leave the Third Rank Superior Grade Twin Dragons Jade behind and then you can scram. Otherwise, don''t me me for not giving face to the Loose Cultivators of the Li Family. I''ll personally have a ''debate of principles'' with you." Xie An was livid with rage, pointing directly at Li Chengli.


    At this moment, Li Chengli was suddenly as silent as a cicada in winter. It was only then that he realized the terror of a Sect Cultivator¡ªa casual strike could be a Secret Technique.


    "Deacon Xie, Li was delusional. I will leave immediately!" Li Chengli picked up Li Yucheng''s body and Storage Bag and left, abandoning the Second Rank Supreme Grade Flying Sword, Supreme Grade Shield Magical Instrument, and even the torn-in-half Iron Thorn g. He didn''t even take his charms and treasures with him, and he tossed the Twin Dragons Jade to Lin Xianzhi as well.


    After that, the group left on their clouds, arriving with bluster but departing in disarray.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming finally stored away the Earth Escape Talisman and let out a long sigh of relief.


    These damnable Foundation Establishment Cultivators never adhered to chivalry when dealing with him.


    Looking at the spoils of war on the ground, Lin Shiming didn''t move. He knew that killing had been the limit, and leaving behind those magic artifacts and charms was actually credited to Xie An.


    That palm strike had clearly intimidated Li Chengli.


    Otherwise, let alone charms, Li Chengli would not rest until he found a way to take even an organ from him.


    "Many thanks, Senior Brother!" Lin Xianzhi immediately waved his hand to thank Xie An.


    Lin Houyuan then approached Lin Shiming, inquiring with concern whether he had sustained any injuries.


    After which, he joined Lin Shiming in expressing gratitude to Xie An.


    Lin Xianzhi quickly gained control of the situation, picking up the treasures, followed by a round of toasting and merrymaking.


    This time, Lin Xianzhi even brought out Monkey Wine, allowing almost every Foundation Establishment family to have a taste, while Loose Cultivators and Qi Cultivation families sipped on Spiritual Wine.


    For these Cultivators, it didn''t take long to put the unpleasantness behind them, and they began to discuss the uing auction to be hosted by the Lin Family. Of course, many were also carefully discussing Lin Shiming¡ªthough their words were all sweet ttery.


    Lin Shiming naturally didn''t take it to heart, finding a secret chamber to start healing and reflecting.


    He also made up his mind to improve his cultivation level and to find time to rece his Green Lotus Root with a Second Rank Superior Grade Wood Demon''s Green Lotus Root as soon as possible.


    This battle had been very perilous. Lin Shiming had thought he could contend against the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    But now he realized that any same-level Cultivator with a better magic artifact could cause him to capsize in the gutter.


    Not to mention from now on, the many Foundation Establishment Cultivators of the Li Family would probably be watching him at all times, eager to put him to death.

 Chapter 78: Chapter 78 The Auction Investigation

    Late at night, Lin Shiming emerged from meditation, having once again filled the Spirit Talisman of the Heavenly Wood with spiritual energy.


    Each time he stored energy, it was as if he was refining his spirit anew, always rendering his spiritual power more condensed.


    Lin Shiming did not rise immediately, but began to reflect on the spell battles of the day, filtering through all the details once more, summarizing the instances where he performed poorly or encountered great peril.


    Thus, Lin Shiming spent another hour in reflection until his divine sense spread out into the distance, and only then did he realize that someone was admiring the night sky today.


    Regretfully, there was neither moon nor stars tonight.


    Lin Shiming pushed the door open and walked toward the courtyard, and Lin Houyuan turned his head back.


    Thetter deeply surveyed Lin Shiming against the night sky for a long time before revealing a gratified smile.


    "You''ve grown up!"


    A simple phrase, yet what Lin Shiming saw on the other''s face was worry, regretting his ownck of strength.


    Indeed, the day had been perilous, and the future might be even more so.


    The pursuit of Immortal Cultivation is itself an act against heaven.


    "I''ve worried father. In the future, Shiming will certainly redouble his efforts in cultivation!" Lin Shiming responded with a warmed heart.


    He had also taken notice of Lin Houyuan''s actions during the day; his father was the type to risk his life at critical moments.


    "Here, this is something the Seventh Great-Uncle gave to you!" Lin Houyuan handed him a Jade Slip, noting that all of Li Yucheng''s treasures were there.


    Three supreme grade magic swords, along with a supreme grade Spirit Shield Artifact, and that broken Scorpion Demon Banner.


    At the end, there was also a spirit talisman shaped like a long strip embroidered with a ck dagger.


    It was indeed Li Yucheng''s prized talisman.


    This brought great joy and surprise to Lin Shiming.


    Given the family head''s way of doing things, it was certain that some treasures would be shared with Xie An, unless the Lin Family no longer wished to rely on the name of Zi Xuan Hermit.


    Of course, more likely, the family gave Xie An other benefits, while they had kept these treasures for him.


    That was indeed characteristic of the Seventh Great-Uncle.


    "And this is a reward from the family!" Before Lin Shiming could emerge from his tion over the talisman, he saw Lin Houyuan take out a Storage Bag.


    Inside the Storage Bag were two thousand Spirit Stones and two bottles of Green Spirit Pills.


    Although not much, they represented a gesture from the family.


    Lin Shiming nodded and epted it.


    In the night, the two of them talked for a long time. Cultivators can spend a great deal of time in seclusion¡ªsince thest time he had a lengthy conversation with Lin Houyuan, he was still a teenager. It had been so long, he didn''t even know how to talk with his father.


    But that day, for the first time, Lin Houyuan revealed various dangers of the Cultivation World to him, and the conversationsted through the night.


    The father he remembered was not much of a talker, but this night, he spoke at length.


    The night was like water, quietly passing by.


    The next day was the Lin Family''s auction event, the final stage of the Foundation Establishment Conference.


    The Lin Family was especially cautious and meticulous this time due to the trouble stirred by the Li Family, keeping records of each suspicious Loose Cultivator.


    When the auction officially began, the auctioneer was none other than Lin Shiming''s thirty-year-old cousin, the chubby cultivator Lin Houyuan.


    With just a few words, he stirred up the enthusiasm of all the cultivators present.


    "Wee all Loose Cultivators and family members to attend our Lin Family''s auction. I am Lin Houyuan, and this time, the treasures have been meticulously selected by Seventh Great-Uncle, so everyone can bid with confidence. The auction rules are the same as any other auction¡ªthe highest bidder wins!"


    "Without further ado, let''s get to the first auction item, a bottle of second-rank, superior grade Monkey Wine!"


    "I believe many of you have tasted Monkey Wine before, not only does it restore spiritual power, but it also has the effects of healing wounds and removing hidden injuries."


    "Moreover, this second-rank, superior grade Monkey Wine is far better than the intermediate grade Monkey Wine that everyone has had. It can be a life-saving elixir at critical moments! Our Lin Family can only brew ten jin every ten years!"


    "One bottle, one jin, with a starting bid of 1,000 Spirit Stones, and each bid must be no less than ten Spirit Stones!"


    As the auction started, Lin Houyuan opened the bottle of wine, and a rich fragrance filled the entire auction hall.


    The Loose Cultivators and Qi Cultivation families were thoroughly inmed with enthusiasm, and many Foundation Establishment families also began to participate in the bidding.


    "1,200 Spirit Stones!"


    "1,300 Spirit Stones!"


    ...


    In the end, the winning bid was 2,200 Spirit Stones, which was considered a high price even among second-rank elixirs.


    Lin Shiming noted this with some delight, knowing that half of the profits from the family''s Monkey Wine and Spirit Peach business belonged to him.


    Of course, this time Lin Shiming was seated at the very back, as he had a more important task.


    To observe the Qian Family.


    The actions and information of the Qian Family were key to this family auction.


    The Lin Family elders were mostly clear on the basic information about their family, and by the same token, it could be assumed that the remaining elders of the Huang Family also knew about the matters concerning the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion and the Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Whether the Qian Family had obtained this information from the remnant members of the Huang Family was critical.


    The auction continued, and the following treasures, although not as good as the second-rank, superior grade Monkey Wine, were still much sought after, with numerous second-rank high-quality treasures inciting a fresh surge in the bidding frenzy.


    Some of these items belonged to the Lin Family, while others were consigned by different Cultivators.


    During this time, Lin Shiming himself made a sessful bid for a Spirit Grass, but the Qian Family didn''t move at all, theirposed demeanor causing Lin Shiming a bit of hesitation.


    Finally, it came to the most crucial and show-stopping final auction item.


    Lin Houyuan, visibly excited, took a tray from a maidservant next to him, and a fiery red small g appeared in his hand.


    "The next item for our finale auction is a third-rank, inferior grade Fire Attribute Magic Artifact, the zing Fire Banner. Its power is definitely one of the top within spell-attacking Magic Artifacts, and the esteemed members present may bid on it!"


    As the zing Fire Banner was unveiled, all the Foundation Establishment families were shocked, as it was well known that the Lin Family did not have a high reputation in Yunzhou because theycked a third-rank Alchemist and a third-rank Artifact Refiner.


    Now, with the appearance of a third-rank artifact, Cultivators paid great attention, whereas the Loose Cultivators were only mildly interested.


    "Yes, it was indeed refined by our Lin Family Head during his breakthrough to Foundation Establishment as well as his advancement to third-rank Artifact Refiner. This is his first third-rank artifact. The starting bid is 10,000 Spirit Stones, and each bid must increase by no less than 500 Spirit Stones!"


    Following Lin Houyuan''s confirmation, the Loose Cultivator families began to bid, and even Xie An showed some interest upon seeing the zing Fire Banner.


    A pure Fire Attribute Magic Artifact could have a special role at critical moments.


    Furthermore, as the older apprentice-brother of Lin Xianzhi, he indeed wished to support the Lin Family.


    In the end, the zing Fire Banner was sold for 28,000 Spirit Stones to Xie An.


    Lin Shiming, seated at the back, breathed a sigh of relief after the sale waspleted. The Qian Family didn''t know about the Formation Artifact Manual.


    Otherwise, they would never miss the opportunity to study this zing Fire Banner. Not to mention two or three thousand Spirit Stones, they might have continued to bid even if it cost fifty or sixty thousand.

 Chapter 79: Chapter 79 Qian Family Business

    With the final auction item sold, the entire auction drew to a close.


    Rough estimates put the final transactions at around one hundred and eighty thousand Spirit Stones, a far from insignificant sum for an auction held by a Foundation Establishment family.


    It is worth noting that the Lin Family had hosted auctions before, but neither the quality of treasures nor the scale and enthusiasm of the loose cultivators and other participating cultivators couldpare to this asion.


    In the past, the highest transaction amount was only sixty to seventy thousand, and each auction seemed less sessful than thest, which is why the Lin Family seldom held auctions anymore.


    This auction had significantly boosted the Lin Family''s momentum and restored their confidence.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but think of a past strategy to retain guests and thus transmitted his thoughts to his seventh great-uncle.


    Thetter, without much thought, nodded and replied in agreement.


    Then, he transmitted to the thirtieth uncle to announce a strategy.


    Thetter was immediately taken aback upon hearing it, quickly looked to the old patriarch and Lin Houyuan, and noticed that both were nodding slightly. Only on m v|le|mp|yr


    Taking a deep breath, his plump face filled with excitement and a hint of madness. This time, the family was truly in the spotlight:


    "Esteemed Daoist elders and friends, our Lin Family hereby announces a piece of news: any who have spent over a thousand Spirit Stones at this auction will receive a hundred Spirit Stones off at the next auction. Those who have spent over ten thousand will receive a five hundred Spirit Stone discount!"


    Lin Houyuan''s announcement sent shockwaves through all the loose cultivators, especially those from Foundation Establishment families.


    The boldness of the Lin Family this time was astonishing.


    If you do the math, the Lin Family would incur a loss of nearly ten thousand Spirit Stones upfront for the next auction.


    At the same time, one could foresee how eager the Spirit Stone-strapped loose cultivators would be for the Lin Family''s next auction.


    Whether loose cultivators or Qi Cultivation families, praises for the Lin Family began to flow endlessly throughout the venue. Of course, their true thoughts might differ, but the Lin Family''s reputation and prestige had definitely soared beyond their previous state, and the promotional reach in Xing County Square Market had met the Lin Family''s expectations.


    That was enough.


    The auction finally concluded, marking a perfect end to the three stages of the Foundation Establishment event.


    All the elders of the Lin Family heaved a huge sigh of relief, and even Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan''s brows seemed to rx a little.


    The elders of the Lin Family proceeded to send off the cultivators from the other Foundation Establishment families, with Lin Shiming following behind, gaining acquaintances with many cultivators from various major families under the introduction of his elders.


    Thest to leave was Xie An, a deacon of the Qingxuan Sect, who was also the nominal senior brother of Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming.


    After exchanging pleasantries, Xie An left on his Flying Sword.


    However, while sending off the other Foundation Establishment families, the Qian Family stayed behind, directly sending a message to the Lin Family expressing interest in doing business involving Monkey Wine.


    The representative from the Qian Family was Qian Bosheng, an elderly cultivator at thete stages of Foundation Establishment.


    This prompted a surge of unease among the Lin Family''s elders.


    All eyes turned to Lin Xianzhi, who shook his head and then spoke:


    "Hou Yuan, Yu Zheng, Shiming, follow me to meet them!"


    Lin Shiming followed his seventh great-uncle to a room, his mind filled with thoughts. Judging by how the auction had handled the Third Rank Magic Artifact, there was no doubt in the Qian Family''s mind.


    Otherwise, they would have directly bought the artifact during the auction to use it as evidence.


    If the Lin Family did not want to escte the issue, they would at least have to suffer a loss in silence.


    But now, with the Qian Family discussing Monkey Wine business, it seemed like a clumsy cover-up, especially since the Lin Family''s Monkey Wine business was supported by the Zi Xuan Hermit.


    The door to the room opened, and the Qian Family cultivators waiting inside stood up to greet the Lin Family members.


    The Qian Family''s side only had three people, two Foundation Establishment cultivators, and one Qi Cultivation elder of the Qian Family.


    The three of them looked at Lin Shiming with peculiar gazes, clearly puzzled as to why a young man in his early twenties was included in the meeting.


    "It seems, Daoist Lin, that you don''t take our Qian Family''s business seriously," Qian Bosheng shook his head as if thoroughly disappointed.


    The implication was that he feared Lin Shiming would leak the news.


    Upon hearing this, the members of the Lin Family felt the situation was bing moreplicated.


    Lin Shiming also had trouble understanding the Qian Family''s actions.


    "The Qian Family is a prosperous n in Yunzhou, and naturally, the Lin Family wouldn''t dare to take them lightly!" As he spoke, Lin Xianzhi began to form hand seals, casting several Spirit Arts, and around them, a highly secretive Divine Sense Istion Formation rose.


    Once the Spirit Istion Formation was raised, the Lin Family found seats and sat down, gesturing for the members of the Qian Family to do the same.


    As the junior-most cultivator, Lin Shiming took the initiative to step forward and poured Spiritual Tea for each of the Qian Family cultivators.


    Strangely, inside the room, no one spoke.


    Two cultivators at theter stages of Foundation Establishment were looking at each other¡ªyou look at me and I look at you.


    Clearly, both parties wanted to respond to whatever move the other made.


    Lin Shiming did not believe that the Qian Family was here to talk about the Monkey Wine trade, and the Qian Family did not believe that the Lin Family was unaware of their true purpose.


    As the clear sound of pouring tea finished, Lin Xianzhi gestured with his hand, a motion to invite, to drink the tea and also to invite the other to speak first.


    Finally, Qian Bosheng could not sit still any longer and began to talk:


    "The Lin Family really is skillful; even the great Huang Family met their demise at your hands!"


    Qian Bosheng''s words clearly had a hidden meaning, which was that he had already made the surviving members of the Huang Family confess.


    "Our Lin Family has always believed in harmony begetting wealth. The Huang Family was no more than ousted by the Li Family," Lin Xianzhi continued, not saying a single word about the Huang Family, and he kept his gaze on the Qian Family.


    Qian Bosheng took a sip of tea without responding, but the other Foundation Establishment cultivator behind him spoke up:


    "Elder Lin, as far as our Qian Family is aware, the Huang Family left behind a Purple Mansion treasure vault. You surely wouldn''t want that treasure vault to fall into the hands of the Li Family, would you?"


    "Oh, a Foundation Establishment family like the Huang Family has a Purple Mansion vault?" Lin Xianzhi''s brows rose.


    "Let''s not pretend to be ignorant when you are well-informed, Elder Lin. Surely you understand the matter regarding the Foundation Establishment Pill, right?"


    "Of course, Elder Lin, don''t even think about silencing us by murder. We only have three people here; the rest left after the convention ended!"


    Having said that, the Qian Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivator sat down, and next to him, Qian Bosheng finally set down his teacup, his gaze meaningful as he looked at Lin Xianzhi.


    The room once again fell into silence; the Qian Family said nothing, and the Lin Family did not speak either.


    Lin Houyuan cleared his throat and responded:


    "It seems that the Qian Family wishes to discuss a grander business with us, so I must ask, have you brought enough Spirit Stones and treasures?"


    "Some items, even if avable,e at a high price, at least not lower than the price given by the Qingxuan Sect, right?"


    "After all, Daoist Xie just left after making his offer..."


    Upon finishing his words, theplexion of the several Qian Family members notably changed.


    They had not expected the Lin Family to say such a thing.


    Nor had they anticipated that Xie An hade here with such a purpose in mind.


    The Lin Family had upied the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion for half a year without notifying anyone; the Qingxuan Sect would definitely hold the Lin Family ountable if reported by them.


    But if the Lin Family had already negotiated with Xie An, then having Xie An report it would make the Qian Family appear as if they were threatening to take advantage of the situation.

 Chapter 80 The Mysterious Sapling

    The room''s tea seemed to have gone cold, and Qian Bosheng set down his teacup, the confidence in his eyes no longer present, then he looked towards Lin Xianzhi.


    "Daoist Lin, your family has been oppressed into a Foundation Establishment family by the Li Family, a Purple Mansion Family. Do you wish to remain like this forever?"


    Seeing Qian Bosheng unsettled, Lin Xianzhi also stopped holding his tongue and responded,


    "Does the Qian Family intend for my junior brother Xie to take the risk?"


    Upon hearing this, Qian Bosheng felt an urge to curse inside. He was fifty percent sure that the Lin Family would not inform Xie An.


    But this time, Xie An hade and even purchased the final auction item, which seemed to match up.


    He dared not gamble.


    This suggestion for Xie An to take a risk truly ignited a great fury within him.


    Not only could he not extort them, but now he wanted toe aboard, he had to pay the ship fare as well.


    The Lin Family now fully understood that the remaining Huang Family Qi Cultivation Elders likely only possessed information, but did not know the whereabouts of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, nor the Foundation Establishment Pill form, and even less about the Formation Artifact Manual.


    Looking back, it also seemed understandable that if they had been in Huangyun Qi''s position, they would not have allowed someone who knew too much to remain at Huangyun Mountain, especially since they had already been usurped by Li Chengli of the Li Family that time.


    If Li Chengli were to interrogate or use secret techniques to search the soul, then the Huang Family''s efforts would have been in vain.


    What followed was negotiation. The Qian Family agreed to contribute fifty thousand Spirit Stones for the Foundation Establishment Pill form and a shared exploration of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, offering one hundred thousand Spirit Stones, with the number of people to be decided by the Lin Familyter on and not to exceed the Lin Family''s count.


    One hundred and fifty thousand Spirit Stones was the price negotiated red-faced by the Qian Family, and Lin Yuzheng wanted to push for more, but Lin Xianzhi ultimately agreed outright.


    The matter at hand, both families were walking a tightrope; there was no need to push too hard.


    Once the negotiation finished, both parties took oaths under the Heavenly Dao and symbolically bought some Spiritual Wine.


    The people from the Qian Family were seen off by the father-son duo, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan.


    Qian Bosheng nced at Lin Shiming and then at Lin Xianzhi, beforeughing heartily and saying,


    "Daoist Lin, I wonder if the young friend Shiming is betrothed?"


    Even with oaths under the Heavenly Dao taken for the joint exploration of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, it was clear that both parties were still somewhat wary and were preparing to solidify the alliance through marriage.


    The Lin Family was naturally willing, but Lin Xianzhi, who knew Lin Shiming well, did not agree outright; instead, he asked thetter,


    "Shiming, do you have the desire? I remember the Qian Family''s ''Tian''-generation girl, although a Third Spirit Root, cultivates almost as quickly as those with a Second Spirit Root!"


    Hearing about a marriage proposal, Lin Shiming also felt a bit overwhelmed. Cultivation was already a challenging issue, and he wasn''t keen on also caring for a Daopanion, so he immediately waved his hand to refuse,


    "Seventh Great-uncle, Shiming is wholeheartedly devoted to the Dao and hasn''t considered this. However, I think my second brother could!"


    Thinking of his second brother Lin Shiyi''s face, Lin Shiming spoke his mind.


    Lin Xianzhi nodded at this and looked towards Qian Bosheng.


    Seeing the situation y out like this, Qian Bosheng showed a regretful expression, saying that they would have their girl meet with Lin Shiyi in due time.


    Thus, the matter concerning the Qian Family and the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion finally came to a close.


    Lin Shiming returned to his room and then went to find his thirtieth uncle Lin Houyuan, only to learn that the martial friend had vanished without a trace.


    Three dayster, he returned to Fangmu Mountain.


    ...


    By the Qinglian Pool, within Lin Shiming''s cave mansion.


    Before Lin Shiming, a refined Heavenly Wood core was ced in front of him.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath, and although he had already transnted a Heavenly Wood core before, this time, he treated it with the same caution as previously, having gone through the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique dozens of times and having cultivated two Grand Circtions to adjust his condition to its optimum.


    Only then did he begin the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation.


    The Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique only permits for one Heavenly Wood core, but since it is a spiritual power storage magic artifact, the spirit formations and secret techniques used in refinement are the same, so a Second Rank Superior grade demon wood''s Heavenly Wood core couldpletely devour the previous Purple Cloak Wood core.


    Lin Shiming used telekinesis to lift the Heavenly Wood core into the air and then pinched a seal to deploy the secret technique which was more careful and smoother than thest time.


    As the Heavenly Wood core was absorbed, Lin Shiming felt, for a moment, as if he had turned into a spirit tree in an unknown spirit nt garden.


    The sun was scorching, spiritual energy was abundant, and from time to time, cultivators brimming with spirit might passed by, attending to the spirit nts.


    What astonished him was that the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, treasured by the Lin Family, seemed ordinary here, numbering in the dozens.


    Beyond that, there was a sapling radiating divine light, which although small, had an immense aura and was situated in the center of the spirit nt garden.


    In a certain moment, a brocade-d cultivator entered, deactivated the formation, took the sapling, and also took the demon wood.


    ...


    The memory abruptly halted, and then came a surge of tremendous spiritual power into Lin Shiming''s dantian.


    This was clearly different from thest time, more akin to the spiritual power stored by the demon wood.


    At this moment, it all became Lin Shiming''s nourishment, abruptly raising his cultivation level by a substantial amount, instantly reaching the peak of Qi Cultivation Seventh Level.


    Simultaneously, the new Heavenly Wood core assimted and devoured the previous Second Rank Intermediate Grade Heavenly Wood core, establishing a connection with Lin Shiming, followed by an endless suction force.


    Having prepared earlier, Lin Shiming took out a spirit jar full of Spirit Water.


    Lin Shiming leapt in and began to gulp down the Monkey Wine fervently.


    The sucking force this time was noticeably more terrifying thanst time; it was only when the spirit jar ran dry and the Monkey Wine was exhausted that Lin Shiming felt the suction weaken.


    The Purple Wood Heart Sutra continued to circte; however, to Lin Shiming''s surprise, his spiritual energy began to be refined by the new Heavenly Wood core, and this refining was even more effective than before.


    The next moment, a wave of spirit might spread out, and Lin Shiming naturally broke through to the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level.


    And his cultivation level quickly stabilized.


    Upon introspection, Lin Shiming discovered that the spiritual power stored by the new Heavenly Wood core was equivalent to five times his own.


    That is to say, his spiritual power was now higher than that of any Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator; even if he were topare magical power values with those senior Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, he could now oust them.


    At this thought, Lin Shiming was very satisfied.


    Moreover, he found that, just as the secret technique had described, the current Heavenly Wood core would, like a demon wood, automatically absorb and refine spiritual energy, albeit at a rate far slower than Lin Shiming''s own cultivation.


    At best, it could barely match a Quintuple Spirit Root.


    But this was more than enough to please Lin Shiming immensely.


    Lin Shiming stood up and exhaled, but the images from before began to surface in his mind. If he wasn''t mistaken, the assimtion of the demon wood''s Heavenly Wood core had also integrated part of the demon wood''s memory fragments.


    The one who took the mysterious sapling and demon wood was probably that direct disciple who was killed by the Wu surname cultivator.


    At this thought, he couldn''t help specting that the Wu surname cultivator must still have that mysterious and extraordinary sapling.

 Chapter 81: Chapter 81 Foundation Establishment Pill and Barrier-Breaking Pill (3rd Update)

    ```


    In the Treasure Pavilion, atop the shelves for misceneous records and treasures.</p>


    Lin Shiming was diligently searching through one jade slip after another, looking for something more precious than the Heavenly Spirit Fruit within the Spirit Beast Sect''s Spirit nt Garden¡ªnaturally, it was no ordinary item.</p>


    However, after a whole day, Lin Shiming had not found the mysterious sapling depicted in the picture.</p>


    On the contrary, his understanding of the various heavenly and earthly treasures had significantly increased.</p>


    Acknowledging this, Lin Shiming decided to give up for now and, after bidding farewell to his uncle Lin Houshou, he headed towards the Earth Fire Hall.</p>


    The Beast Nurturing Pills had been depleted again, and at that moment, the three gluttonous beasts were still howling rebelliously inside the Spirit Beast Bag.</p>


    The Pill Pavilion within the Earth Fire Hall was growing hotter by the day, and by the time Lin Shiming arrived, the temperature felt as if it were roasted by a volcano.</p>


    The previous apprentices had already begun to perform alchemy in earnest, though most of them were making the cultivators'' entry-level Elixir Pills, Fasting Pills.</p>


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming''s arrival, everyone cordially called him "Seventh Brother."</p>


    Lin Shiming greeted them one by one, then cast a nce towards the relentlessly high mes of the earth fire.</p>


    He immediately asked,</p>


    "How long has the earth fire been like this?"</p>


    "The earth fire''s intensity has been increasing for half a month now, but Second Grandpa has been inside for a month. Seventh Brother, you may not be able to wait..."</p>


    Before the cultivator finished speaking, from Lin Yuqi''s alchemy room suddenly emanated waves of Spirit Might, followed by an enticing fragrance that filled the air.</p>


    "Another sessful pill concoction?" Lin Shiming saw this and was somewhat surprised, not expecting to encounter the Second Elder solidifying pills on both of his visits.</p>


    Moreover, the Spirit Might from this pill solidification was even greater than that from the Consolidation Pill, and the aroma was so overwhelming it perked everyone up, quickening the flow of their Spiritual Power several times.</p>


    He even faintly felt his Cultivation Level rising in that moment.</p>


    The apprentices from the Lin Family bearing the ''Shi'' prefix were even swallowing hard.</p>


    The scenested for half an hour before the long-closed door finally opened.</p>


    Lin Yuqi, trembling and unsteady, emerged with the support of Lin Shitao, showing aged features and white hair.</p>


    Apart from his bright and spirited eyes, Lin Shiming could hardly believe that this was the Lin Family''s Second Rank Superior Grade Alchemist, the Second Elder.</p>


    "I''ll give you all half a day off!"</p>


    Lin Yuqi''s face was filled with joy as he sent the apprentices away.</p>


    Then, with a swift gesture, he activated the Formation surrounding him, instantly merging it and shielding all outside information.</p>


    "Shiming, tell Seventh Great-Uncle, Yuqi has not failed his trust, I''ve concocted the Foundation Establishment Pill! Living up to the ancestors'' sacrifice in saving me!"</p>


    Lin Yuqi took out a pill bottle from which a golden Elixir Pill radiated brilliant light.</p>


    After saying this, Lin Yuqi was even on the verge of shedding tears of tion.</p>


    "Second Grandpa, I will report to Seventh Great-Uncle right away!"</p>


    Lin Shiming, heart aching, took the pill bottle and then carefully cautioned:</p>


    "Second Grandpa, you are now the only Third Rank Alchemist in the Lin Family. I hope you will take care of your health!"</p>


    Lin Yuqi nodded repeatedly, his gaze and expression unchanged.</p>


    Lin Shiming could only instruct Shitao to take good care of Lin Yuqi.</p>


    Then, as if he already knew, he took out ten pill bottles filled to the brim with Beast Nurturing Pills.</p>


    "Seventh Brother, these were concocted by Second Grandpa. Shitao is clumsy, and for now, I can only manage to concoct Second Rank Inferior Grade elixirs."</p>


    ```


    "You''re already very impressive. If you were foolish, then Seventh Great-Uncle would be a fool."


    After exchanging a few words with Lin Shitao, Lin Shiming left the Earth Fire Hall, as the Second Elder needed to rest at that time.


    But at this moment, he could not afford to stay idle, for the family''s Fifth Uncle was eagerly waiting. He was already fifty-nine years old, and in one more year he would miss the prime age for Foundation Establishment.


    If that were the case, by then Fifth Uncle''s heart would surely be filled with despair.


    Lin Shiming first sent a Spirit Message to Seventh Great-Uncle, then to Fifth Uncle Lin Houyong.


    He then hurried non-stop to the Qinglian Pool, where the green lotus leaves looked as verdant as jade at that moment, and Lin Xianzhi, who was in the pavilion nearby, flew directly to Lin Shiming''s side.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle," said Lin Shiming as he took out a Foundation Establishment Pill and handed it to Lin Xianzhi, who then scrutinized it carefully in the palm of his hand. After half an hour with a face full of smiles, he covered the Pill Bottle of the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    At that time, a middle-aged man dressed in green robes arrived on his flying sword. Lin Houyong looked vastly different from a year ago.


    Perhaps due to the prolonged wait for the Foundation Establishment Pill, his will had clearly waned.


    But at this moment, his eyes were the brightest.


    "Houyong, go to my cave and make your breakthrough, but remember to adjust your condition for half a month first. Otherwise, even with the Foundation Establishment Pill, there''s still a chance of failure," Lin Xianzhi said.


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle. For the grace of your guidance, Houyong will definitely repay Seventh Great-Uncle and the family for a lifetime!" Lin Houyong gave a deep bow and then resolutely entered Lin Xianzhi''s cave tomence his Foundation Establishment seclusion.


    Before he left, Lin Shiming also gave Lin Houyong the newly-harvested half-year Spirit Honey.


    Although the effects of the Spirit Honey were not significant, it was still able to remove some of the pill toxins Lin Houyong had retained, so it was better than nothing.


    With Lin Houyong''s seclusion, the Qinglian Pool once again fell into tranquility, and Lin Xianzhi, looking at Lin Shiming, felt more pleased the more he looked.


    Indeed, just as the long-standing rumors within the Lin Family had said, Lin Shiming was a blessing to the family, bringing about so many changes.


    Whether it was his own healing, or the breakthrough of the Spirit Vein, or his suggestions for the Foundation Establishment event, he was impacting the Lin Family.


    Sometimes he doubted whether it was wise to involve a young man in his early twenties in the decisions and suggestions of a Foundation Establishment family that had existed for hundreds of years, but in reality, what Lin Shiming brought to the family was constant improvement and progress.


    "Have you noticed the changes in the Qinglian Pool?" Lin Xianzhi, satisfied, suddenly said.


    Lin Shiming then released his Divine Sense and discovered that not far from the Qinglian Pool, the family had developed a new Spirit Pool, where young Spirit Fish fry were swimming around, some even leaping out of the water.


    The lotus leaves in the distance were even more verdant and lush than those in the Qinglian Pool, indeed as he had said before, the Spirit Fish and the lotus leaves promoted each other''s growth.


    "The Spirit Fish really works!" Lin Shiming replied, pleasantly surprised.


    "Yes, soon the family will have more business with Spirit Fish!"


    "Oh yes, this is a special reward from the family for you!" said Lin Xianzhi as he took out a Pill Bottle.


    Lin Shiming received it with both hands, still curious. Stay connected through m-v l|e-NovelBin


    "This is a Barrier-Breaking Pill. Now, the ones in the family who have the best hope for a breakthrough in Foundation Establishment are you and Shijie!"


    "This Barrier-Breaking Pill will help you break through the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level! Shijie has also taken this elixir and made a breakthrough!"


    Upon hearing the introduction, Lin Shiming realized in an instant that the main ingredient of the Barrier-Breaking Pill was the Purple me Fruit.


    Presumably, the Purple me Fruit was the very one auctioned at Qingxuan City, the one bidded fiercely by the Huang Family, which eventually ended up in his family''s hands and was made into Barrier-Breaking Pills.


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming quickly expressed his gratitude. With this Barrier-Breaking Pill, Lin Shiming could even use Spirit Honey to continuously medicate over the next year or two and then use the Barrier-Breaking Pill to break through the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    He was now twenty-three years old. With this Barrier-Breaking Pill, he was even confident that he could break through the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level before the age of twenty-six, and then he would have thirty-four years of cultivation and at least two opportunities for breakthroughs.


    In an instant, Lin Shiming was filled with confidence about his Foundation Establishment.

 Chapter 82 Qi Cultivation Level 9

    By Qinglian Pool, Lin Shiming put away the Barrier-Breaking Pill and took out a Jade Slip, on which he carved the appearance of that mysterious tree from his memory, then began to inquire Lin Xianzhi.


    Upon receiving the Jade Slip, Lin Xianzhi''s face changed dramatically after he had examined it, and he turned to look at Lin Shiming.


    Moreover, his hand waved a g, activating all the formations surrounding the Qinglian Pool.


    "Shiming, where did you see this?" Lin Xianzhi''s expression was extremely serious.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, this is the memory image extracted from the Wood Demonic Being''s Heaven Wood Heart." Lin Shiming, seeing the seriousness of the matter, did not hide anything, and at the same time, he became more interested in that martial surname cultivator and raised his estimation of thetter by a notch.


    "This is the Minor Divine Ability Tree. It bears Minor Divine Ability Fruits. After consuming the divine fruit, it can ensure that a Purple Mansion cultivator willprehend a new Minor Divine Ability!"


    Lin Shiming was greatly moved upon hearing this, no wonder it was so important in the Spirit Beast Sect''s Spirit nt Garden.


    The martial surname cultivator who killed the inner disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect must be the direct disciple among the direct disciples within the sect.


    The highest warpower of the three great sects of Zhao Kingdom is the Golden Core True Person, but such beings hardly ever appear, apart from that it would be the Purple Mansion Hermit. If a Purple Mansion Hermit could gain one more Minor Divine Ability, they could be almost invincible amongst their peers.


    "Such a fruit tree must not be coveted unless one is a hundred percent certain no second person knows about it!" Lin Xianzhi warned Lin Shiming emphatically.


    After saying this, he thought of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion:


    "Shiming, you should also improve your cultivation these few years. Nine years from now, at the next Qingxuan Conference, it will be time for our Lin Family and the Qian Family to jointly explore the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion."


    "Thank you for the reminder, Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming will bear it in mind!" Lin Shiming responded with a sped fist; the timing of the family''s action did not differ much from what he had expected.


    At that time, all the families would be in Qingxuan City, so that the Lin Family and the Qian Family could explore the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion without anyone being the wiser.


    Otherwise, if it caused too muchmotion, both families wouldn''t be able to handle the consequences.


    Also, during these nine years, his Fifth Uncle and his father would be able to stabilize their Foundation Establishment Early Stage as quickly as possible, so they wouldn''t be totally powerless if a struggle erupted.


    After asking Lin Xianzhi a few more questions, Lin Shiming then continued back to his cave mansion to cultivate bitterly.


    The pressure was still immense. With Spirit Honey in hand, sufficient Green Spirit Pills, and a Barrier-Breaking Pill, it was time to cultivate intensely.


    From then on, Lin Shiming''s cave mansion fell once more into silence. asionally, the door would open when the Golden Luan Eagle, the Golden Winged Mantis, and the Red-haired Demon Monkey went out to hunt, or when Lin Shiming harvested Spirit Honey, channeling Wood Attribute Spiritual Energy from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra into the Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree.


    ...


    Time passed by again¡ªthis time another three years.


    On this day, under the scorching sun, by the Qinglian Lake next to Qinglian Pool.


    Cultivators were using Spirit Nets to catch Spirit Fish that had grown considerably.


    Each time theyted a fish, they had it checked by a Beast Nurturing Specialist to determine if it was spawning before joyfully cing it into the prepared Spirit Tanks.


    However, at that moment, everyone suddenly felt a tremendous surge of Spirit Might bursting from the side of Qinglian Pool.


    All stopped what they were doing and looked over. Find adventures at m_v l|e-NovelBin


    "Is this the Sixth Eldering out of seclusion?" the cultivators couldn''t help but specte.


    But instantly someone countered:


    "Sixth Elder already made his breakthrough to Foundation Establishment two years ago, and he stabilized it half a year ago before heading to Xing County Square Market to preside over it!"


    Amidst the spections of the crowd, the entrance of Lin Shiming''s cave abode opened, and a Golden Luan Eagle and a massive Red-haired Demon Monkey rushed out first, both of them shrieking with joy.


    The cultivators weren''t surprised by this, but their eyes finally spotted a figure in green robes.


    Behind the figure, followed a Golden Winged Mantis the size of a wild buffalo.


    This person was none other than Lin Shiming, who had just emerged from seclusion. After spending all his spirit honey, Green Spirit Pills, and Beast Nurturing Pills, not only had he reached the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, but the Golden Winged Mantis had also thoroughly reached the peak of a Second Rank Demonic Beast.


    The noticeablyrger size was one thing, but what astonished Lin Shiming even more was that the Golden Winged Mantis, previously having four wings, had grown an additional two thin wings beneath them, a clear harbinger of its promotion to a Third Rank Demonic Beast.


    Now, the Golden Winged Mantis''s speed was even more terrifying than before. One-on-one, Lin Shiming wasn''t very confident that he could defeat the Golden Winged Mantis in solobat.


    The performance of the Golden Winged Mantis was truly deserving of its potential for Foundation Establishment status among spirit beasts.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey too had undergone significant changes and had now entered thete stage of the Second Rank; its size was hardly less than that of the two monkeys from Peach Blossom Valley back then.


    It was the Golden Luan Eagle that stagnated, always remaining at the intermediate stage of the Second Rank and even struggling greatly to enter thete stage.


    After all, due to innate limits, the Beast Nurturing Pills only shortened the growth period of spirit beasts and couldn''t enhance their innate talent.


    "Uncle Thirteen!" After emerging from seclusion, Lin Shiming headed towards a person fishing for Spirit Fish in the distance.


    The person responsible for catching Spirit Fish was none other than Lin Houwei.


    "Goodd, you''ve actually reached the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation before me! You owe me a full fish feast at Lin Family Restaurant, paired with Monkey Wine,"mented Lin Houwei upon seeing Lin Shiming''s breakthrough, feeling somewhat emotional for a moment but soon started looking forward to the Monkey Wine.


    "No problem!" Lin Shiming agreed immediately. Although he didn''t have many Spirit Stones on him at that moment, his sry from thest three years and the Lin Family''s reward policy had earned him several thousand Spirit Stones.


    After exchanging a few words of greeting with Uncle Thirteen, Lin Shiming also learned about the current situation of the family and then made his way towards the n''s council hall.


    In thest three years, the rtionship between the Lin Family and the Li Family of Huangyun had bepletely hostile. Most of the n''s cultivators had already withdrawn from Qingyun Square Market and now primarily operated in Xing County Square Market, as well as trading Spirit Fish and Monkey Wine to Qingzhou.


    On the contrary, after a few trips to the Qingyun Mountain Range and mysterious losses among the younger members, the family seldom went hunting there anymore, leading to a decline in thebat strength of the n''s young cultivators in recent years.


    As soon as Lin Shiming arrived at the council hall, he saw Lin Houyuan instructing the Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng and Lin Shijie on certain matters.


    It turns out that, after a gap of three years, the family was preparing to hold another auction in Xing County Square Market.


    And Lin Shijie, who had broken through to the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, along with the Fifth Elder, who was responsible for the caravan, were there to take supplies to Xing County Square Market.


    "Shiming, you''ve broken through to the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation!" Lin Houyuan also looked at Lin Shiming with some surprise.


    "Thanks to the Seventh Grand Uncle''s pills, I had the good fortune to make a breakthrough!" Lin Shiming waved and replied.


    "Good, then you''ll go with Fifth Uncle Shijie too. The Seventh Grand Uncle is in seclusion refining magic artifacts, so I can''t go over there for now!" Lin Houyuan ordered once more.


    Lin Shiming readily agreed and, seeing Lin Shijie for the first time in a while, felt that thetter,pared to a few years ago, seemed even more sharp and formidable.


    No doubt he had made tremendous strides in his swordsmanship.


    "Big Brother, Grandpa Fifth!" After agreeing, Lin Shiming also waved and greeted Lin Shijie and Lin Yuzheng.


    Once they had discussed the time of departure, Lin Shiming went to the Treasure Pavilion to receive his Spirit Stone sry and exchange for some Spirit Talismans.


    From their conversations, Lin Shiming also learned that this auction would feature Red Spirit Fish of the Intermediate Grade Second Rank; these fish had a better taste, and their flesh could even improve one''s cultivation level.


    The Lin Family raised Spirit Fish and, naturally, were determined to obtain the Red Spirit Fish, but the Loose Cultivator who had the fish insisted on putting it up for auction, despite the Lin Family''s high bids, hoping to fetch an even higher price.

 Chapter 83: Chapter 83 Awakening Spirit Flower Seeds

    Xing County Square Market, Lin Shiming walked the streets of the market once more, noting that it had changed significantlypared to three years ago.


    The area for street stalls and the area for shops had beenpletely segregated.


    Additionally,pared to three years ago, thanks to the efforts of Uncle Lin Houyong, who transnted two Inferior Grade Second Rank Spirit Veins, the Spirit Vein here had been upgraded to a Superior Grade Second Rank, making the Spiritual Energy much more abundant.


    This was another reason why Loose Cultivators likeding to the Xing County Square Market.


    However, Lin Shiming was somewhat surprised to find that, although the Cultivation Levels of the visitors this time were generally not as high as before, the liveliness of the crowd was by no means inferior to thest Foundation Establishment Conference.


    "Your policy is really good, a lot of Loose Cultivators came specifically for the Spirit Stone discount policy you introduced, especially those who managed to win bids on itemsst time!" Lin Yuzheng, who seemed to notice Lin Shiming''s surprise, also said with a smile.


    When he first heard about the policy, he was also shocked, since the profit from any auction item was generally only about thirty to forty percent at best, assuming the auction went well.


    Lin Shiming''s policy basically relinquished a ten-percent profit in Spirit Stones, and in the worst-case scenario, it could mean a loss of tens of thousands of Spirit Stones.


    But after careful thought, the ten percent profit would likely be raised by the Loose Cultivators themselves through the bidding.


    The resulting poprity it brought was also extremely considerable.


    "Let''s go to the Lin Family Restaurant first. Have Shiming experience the Spirit Fish banquet!" Lin Yuzheng suggested again, and the group headed toward the Lin Family Restaurant.


    This was a newly built restaurant by the Lin Family. However, upon arrival, they found that there were quite a few Loose Cultivators dining there, most of whom hade for the Lin Family''s Spirit Fish and Monkey Wine.


    "So many people pursue Immortal Cultivation, but how many truly achieve a clear heart and few desires?" Lin Yuzheng again interjected with a sigh.


    Lin Shiming very much agreed, noting that Cultivators often secluded themselves for years, and especially for Loose Cultivators who were regrly in danger, ordinary food didn''t appeal to them, but spiritual cuisine and Spiritual Wine became their favorites.


    Had it been a normal day, there might have been fewer people, but now, on the eve of the auction, there were indeed many Loose Cultivators around.


    The group entered the restaurant and chose a fine spot on the second floor.


    After the spiritual meal, Lin Shiming even felt a sense of the seasons in a meal that mortals relish, an elusive sensation he found quite marvelous.


    The spiritual cuisine here may not have been as good as that of Laiyue Tower in Qingxuan City, but to Lin Shiming, it was already considered some of the best spiritual cuisine in Yunzhou.


    "It''s a pity, other families have started to rear Spirit Fish as well!" Lin Shijie, surprisingly concerned about the family''s affairs, said with a hint of regret.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t surprised by this; rearing Spirit Fish wasn''t difficult as long as one had a Water Attribute Spirit Vein.


    Moreover, if the Purple Mansion Li Family were to rear them, they would definitely do a better job than the Lin Family.


    This was precisely why the Lin Family was so keen on securing the Red Spirit Fish.


    Just then, Lin Shiming''s reminder rang out again: "Please take a good look around the street stall area, you will be able to obtain the dormant Awakening Spirit Flower seeds, which can enhance Divine Sense."


    The prompt brought with it a wave of excitement for Lin Shiming.


    If there was something that troubled him the most now, it was that his Divine Sense wasn''t strong enough. Even with the Purple Wood Heart Sutra and the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, controlling all the Snake Vine Flowers and Iron Thorns consumed most of his Divine Sense, and he had difficulty managing the remaining three Supreme Grade Spirit Sword Magic Artifacts.


    If he could get the Awakening Spirit Flower, and with a significant boost to his Divine Sense, he would have little to fear from anyone in the Qi Refinement Realm.


    What''s more, an increase in Divine Sense could also improve the chances of sessful Foundation Establishment.


    You see, with the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique and the Purple Wood Heart Sutra refining Spiritual Power, his conversion of Spiritual Power into True Yuan was already stronger than that of a typical Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Cultivator. Add an exceptional Divine Sense to that, plus a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Suppressing his excitement, Lin Shiming continued his meal, but his mind was already somewhat elsewhere.


    After saying goodbye to Lin Shijie and Lin Yuzheng at the Lin Family Restaurant, Lin Shiming headed straight for the street market.


    Compared to themercial shops area, the cultivation levels of the loose cultivators in the street market were once again a notch lower, generally around the fourth or fifth level of Qi Refinement.


    Most were selling various types of Spirit Grass and flowers, with a few offering basic elixirs and some low-grade magic artifacts.


    Lin Shiming walked past stall after stall, stopping only at those selling Spirit Grass and flowers. Eventually, he halted in front of one run by a woman who wore a qi-repelling face veil.


    Adorned in a flowing gown, she stood out among the many male cultivators.


    Her stall was filled with various Spirit flowers, Spirit Grasses, and seeds.


    It was there that Lin Shiming finally found the purpose of his journey in a small jar.


    "How much for these seeds?" Lin Shiming first asked, pointing at the seeds of a San Yang Flower.


    "The San Yang Flower is a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Flower, one hundred Spirit Stones!" The female cultivator''s voice was extremely hoarse,pletely incongruous with her graceful figure.


    It made one doubt whether her appearance was also less than pleasing.


    Lin Shiming didn''t dwell on it and continued to inquire about the neighboring Awakening Spirit Flower seeds.


    "And this one?"


    "These are Awakening Spirit Flower seeds, but they''ve entered a dormant period. It''s uncertain if they can sessfully germinate, thirty Spirit Stones will do!" Lin Shiming didn''t expect the female cultivator to be familiar with the Awakening Spirit Flower, but luckily it seemed like she hadn''t managed to get them to sprout.


    "I''ll take both the San Yang Flower seeds and the Awakening Spirit Flower seeds!" Lin Shiming immediately took out one hundred and thirty Spirit Stones and handed them to the female cultivator.


    Just as Lin Shiming was about to leave, suddenly a voice rang out:


    "Hold on, I''ll pay one hundred Spirit Stones for those Awakening Spirit Flower seeds, sell them to me!"


    A burly bald cultivator with bizarre tattoos on his face, giving him a particrly fierce appearance, approached.


    The whispers of shock regarding the Seven Fiends of Lingnan could be heard nearby.


    Clearly, this bald man was no small fry.


    "These seeds have already been sold to this cultivator from the Lin Family!" The female cultivator replied indifferently, continuing to sit without intending to get involved in matters concerning the Lin Family and the Seven Fiends of Lingnan.


    "Kid, sell me the seeds for 30 Spirit Stones!" The bald man turned to Lin Shiming, speaking again.


    "Are you attempting to bully and rob with such an aggressive approach?" Lin Shiming watched the bald cultivator with a cold gaze, sharply questioning him.


    At the same time, he flipped the jar in his hand and took the seeds away.


    At this moment, the patrolling Lin Family cultivators promptly rushed over.


    "You''ll regret this!" The bald cultivator left behind a grim threat before walking off withrge steps.


    Lin Shiming suddenly felt utterly baffled; he''d just been warned on his own turf.


    Of course, he didn''t question the ridiculousness of the situation. On the contrary, he had a feeling of unease. The bald cultivator was obviously as straightforward as his second elder brother.


    Putting himself in the other''s shoes, such a threat wouldn''te from his second brother unless he had the confidence for revenge...

 Chapter 84: Chapter 84 Who is the Praying Mantis?

    In a room on the second floor of the auction hall, Lin Houyuan was still organizing the treasures and magic artifacts that were about to be auctioned.


    Outside the door, there was a knock. Lin Houyuan, with his plump body, turned around and then looked outside the door and spoke:


    "Come in!"


    "Uncle Thirty!" A young man in green robe pushed the door open and entered. With a respectful call, he then sat down next to Lin Houyuan.


    The visitor was Lin Shiming.


    "You came sote. Shijie and the others came just a while ago and already took a look!" Lin Houyuan couldn''t help but tease.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming understood that his eldest brother and fifth uncle must havee here right after leaving the Lin Family Restaurant, but his purpose this time was not for the auction items.


    "Uncle Thirty, have you heard of the Lingnan Seven Fiends?"


    "What? You ran into the Lingnan Seven Fiends?" Lin Houyuan looked somewhat grave.


    "Right in the street stall area!" Lin Shiming replied affirmatively.


    "This is somewhat troublesome. The Lingnan Seven Fiends are a cultivator n in Yunzhou and count as a family. The strength of the seven fiends is not bad; even the weakest has the strength of the eighth level of Qi Cultivation. The head of their n is even at the Foundation Establishment Stage." Lin Houyuan felt his headache growing.


    "Shiming, be a bit more cautious this time. There might beplications, given that Seventh Great-Uncle is in seclusion on Fangmu Mountain. As for the Lingnan Seven Fiends, I will send people to watch over them." Lin Houyuan continued to remind Lin Shiming, and at the same time, he handed over a jade slip that recorded the auction items to Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming received the jade slip with both hands, scanned it twice, then shook his head and returned the jade slip to Lin Houyuan.


    Most of the treasures this time were indeed second-rank superior-grade spiritual materials and spiritual objects.


    But for Lin Shiming, there were no items he was too desperately in need of.


    Lin Shiming bid farewell to Lin Houyuan and then visited his fifth uncle, Lin Houyong, who was extremely happy to see Lin Shiming. Thetter''s breakthrough to Foundation Establishment owed much to Lin Shiming''s contribution.


    And Lin Shiming had reached the ninth level of Qi Cultivation. The next step was how to hone spiritual energy, break through to Foundation Establishment, and he had many questions for Lin Houyong.


    The two of them chatted over tea for a good half hour. In the end, it was Lin Shiming who took the initiative to take his leave and returned to his own room.


    In the room, he had also mentioned the Lingnan Seven Fiends to his fifth uncle, but thetter just smiled slightly, full of confidence, and did not say much more.


    With that, Lin Shiming understood.


    Who is the mantis, and who is the cicada? It''s best to just wait quietly and see the oue.


    In the room, Lin Shiming took out a simple Spirit Istion Formation Array te from his storage bag and set it up.


    Then he rxed, took out the seeds of the Awakening Spirit Flower, and prepared to infuse wood attribute spiritual power to experiment.


    Although the system had prompted him, the female cultivator had referred to the seeds of the Awakening Spirit Flower as useless, so he was still somewhat concerned they might not germinate or would demand too much time or spiritual power.


    The seeds of the Awakening Spirit Flower were not small; one was the size of a thumb, and most of the spirit patterns on the seed were rubbed off, apanied by the moist scent of soil, it seemed like it had been nted in the ground multiple times and then dug up again.


    Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Soil he had acquired in Qingyun Mountain Range before, along with some Nurturing Spirit Liquid for transnting spirit nts.


    Finally, he carefully nted the seeds.


    After everything was ready, he began to operate the Purple Wood Heart Sutra and input wood attribute spiritual power.


    These spirit nts were not fast-growing, so the spirit seeds also grew very slowly. He could only judge whether they could germinate by sensing the vitality of the seeds.


    Under the influence of three factors, Lin Shiming poured in spiritual power for a solid half hour before he finally felt the vitality of the seeds suddenly increase, at the same time forming a tiny vortex of spiritual energy.


    "There''s a chance!" Lin Shiming immediately felt relieved, did not continue catalyzing, and put away the seeds and Spirit Soil instead. He nned to cultivate them when he returned to Fangmu Mountain, utilizing Fangmu Mountain''s third rank superior grade Spirit Vein.


    Afterward, Lin Shiming began to meditate and cultivate.


    As the sun rose and set, and clouds rolled and shifted, two days passed in the blink of an eye.


    By the time Lin Shiming opened his eyes again, it was the day the auction began.


    Together with Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong, he arrived at thepartment behind the auction hall. This location offered an excellent view of the entire auction scene and allowed the group to promptly deal with any issues that might arise.


    Also present was his second uncle, Lin Houshou, who was in charge of the formations here, ensuring that if a powerful enemy appeared at the auction hall, they could quickly deploy the formations.


    However, unlike thest auction, this time thepartment was almost empty.


    The Foundation Establishment families that did attend were mostly represented by the younger generation seeking spiritual objects, while in contrast, the main hall buzzed with noise. Many Loose Cultivators were eager and ready to make a big move.


    At noon, Lin Houyuan also appeared on the auction stage on time.


    "Wee fellow Loose Cultivators and family members who are here to participate in our Lin Family''s auction. My name is Lin Houyuan, and just like thest auction, the highest bidder wins. Also, for those friends who purchased auction itemsst time, you can deduct the price ording to the previous conditions. This opportunity shouldn''t be missed, as it won''te again.


    Everyone seated, please rx and enjoy the auction!"


    "The first auction item is a Second Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Shield Artifact!"


    "There''s no need for me to borate on the preciousness of Spirit Shield Artifacts; they are seldom seen even in majormercial establishments. The starting bid is 1500 Spirit Stones, with a minimum increment of 100 Spirit Stones."


    "I bid 1800!"


    "2000!"


    "I, Qi Mou, bid 3000!"


    ...


    The Supreme Grade Spirit Shield was in high demand and eventually sold for the high price of 3800 Spirit Stones.


    There were Loose Cultivators who, hoping to save a hundred Spirit Stones, ended up driving the overall expected price even higher.


    Otherwise, even a rare Supreme Grade Spirit Shield Artifact typically wouldn''t fetch nearly four thousand Spirit Stones at auction.


    Lin Shiming, who himself possessed two Supreme Grade defensive Spirit Shield Artifacts, considered selling one upon seeing the auction price.


    The auction continued, and the next few items,pared to the first, were somewhat less impressive until another heavyweight artifact from Thousand Layer Mountain appeared.


    This artifact shared a certain ingenious simrity with Profound Water Heavy Mountain, which piqued his interest. After paying 3500 Spirit Stones, he sessfully acquired the Thousand Layer Mountain Artifact.


    Given the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s strength, the Profound Water Heavy Mountain was no longer sufficient for its needs, and the Thousand Layer Mountain was perfectly suitable.


    After auctioning off two more Spirit nts, it was finally time for the Lin Family''s eagerly anticipated Red Spirit Fish.


    The Red Spirit Fish was enormous, over a meter long, covered in red scales, with a slightly bulging belly,


    Cultivators were particrly enthusiastic upon seeing it, and after learning about the sess of the Lin Family Restaurant, the price of the Spirit Fish had skyrocketed, especially among cultivators who owned a Spirit Pool and were eyeing it intently.


    This included quite a few cultivators from other families as well.


    However, they had not received prior notice and were somewhat unprepared in terms of Spirit Stones.


    "A Second Rank Intermediate Grade Red Spirit Fish! Attention all fellow Daoists, this Red Spirit Fish is still in its spawning period. The starting bid is 2000 Spirit Stones, with no less than 100 Spirit Stones for each increment!"


    "2300!"


    "2800 Spirit Stones!"


    ...


    Just as the bidding went back and forth, Lin Shiming decided to put forth a staggering offer:


    "5000 Spirit Stones!"


    His bid, more than double the current one, instantly quelled all others.

 Chapter 85: Chapter 85 Five Poisons

    Directly increasing the bid by more than double the Spirit Stones silenced the entire auction house.


    Even many Loose Cultivators thought the Lin Family''s action was superfluous.


    If you wanted it so badly, you should have negotiated with the seller before the auction.


    Of course, some also spected that the Lin Family might be maliciously inting the price, but such shill bidding should be conducted by Loose Cultivators, shouldn''t it?


    "5500 Spirit Stones!" Suddenly, from the crowd, a bald man stood up and raised the bid.


    Lin Shiming nced over and recognized the bidder as his ''acquaintance'' from two days prior, the bald Cultivator from the Lingnan Seven Fiends.


    The bald man cast a wild nce over the entire hall, his gaze finally settling on Lin Shiming with a provocative air.


    "6000 Spirit Stones!" Lin Shiming also called out his bid without any hesitation.


    He stared at the bald man, still somewhat puzzled. These people seemed to have put the Red Spirit Fish up for auction without ever intending to sell it.


    The Red Spirit Fish had already reached triple its price, and the result was tantly obvious: the Red Spirit Fish was theirs to begin with.


    So all they needed to pay was a ten percentmission fee.


    "6500 Spirit Stones!" The bald man continued the provocation.


    The bid of five hundred Spirit Stones didn''t even make him blink, and by then it had drawn cheers from the Loose Cultivators. This was undoubtedly the most sensational auction in history, a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Fish worth at most three to four thousand Spirit Stones, was now approaching seven thousand.


    "7000!" Lin Shiming kept up with the bidding. Lin Shijie beside him was somewhat nervous, continuously casting nces to signal Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shijie might not understand, but Lin Shiming did. These Lingnan Seven Fiends were the perfect stooges, helping to create momentum for the Lin Family!


    "8000!" As the bid of eight thousand Spirit Stones was called out, Lin Shiming didn''t continue to bid.


    It was time to cash in and take the eight hundredmission Spirit Stones.


    After paying for the Spirit Stones and receiving the Spirit Fish, the bald Cultivator gave one more provocative nce before leaving.


    He didn''t continue to watch the auction, instead he left the hall directly.


    Clearly telling the Lin Family, if they wanted the Spirit Fish, they should follow him.


    This was almost an open invitation for the Lin Family to attempt a murder and robbery!


    "We can go!" Lin Houyong confidently told Lin Shiming.


    As soon as he said this, the shrewd-minded Lin Shiming immediately guessed that his Fifth Uncle and the others must be aware that this was a setup. If he wasn''t mistaken, Lin Xianzhi must also be in the area.


    But for the sake of secrecy, he had decided not to inform anyone.


    "Alright, Big Brother, let''s go together and retrieve the Spirit Fish!" Lin Shiming said resolutely to Lin Shijie.


    Thetter agreed happily. Having just broken through to the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, he was eager to find a few people to test his sword.


    The Lingnan Seven Fiends, as veteran Cultivators of the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, were perfect targets to test his de, especially since he was aware of Lin Shiming''s excellent support techniques.


    The two of them were in ord and stealthily left the ce.


    The auction continued, yet the atmosphere began to subtly turn unusual.


    Outside the Xing County Square Market, Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie took off on their Flying Swords.


    "Old Seven, let''s see who''s faster with the Flying Swords and who can take down that bald head first!" Lin Shijie was eager to try as well. His Fire-returning Fire Sword seemed to be augmented with rare Artifact Refining materials, releasing a strange tri-color me in the air when activated.


    "Big brother, you''ve added three-colored stones to the refining materials, haven''t you?" Lin Shiming replied with a mix of crying andughing.


    Thetter, seeing the surprise and helplessness in Lin Shiming''s eyes, also felt somewhat satisfied, as if he had finally gained some advantage over Lin Shiming.


    After the brief interlude, both transformed into beams of sword light and continued southward.


    Half an hourter, on a small hill, they finally caught up with the bald cultivator from the Lingnan Seven Fiends.


    Upon closer inspection, Lin Shiming realized that the bald cultivator bore tattoos of gaunt toads.


    "Indeed, the young calf isn''t afraid of the tiger, a buy-one-get-one-free on courting death!" the bald cultivator sneered, licking his tongue, then raised his hand, and suddenly a series of formation gs arose. Subsequently, a stream of spirit light emerged from the ground, and four cultivators dressed just like the bald one appeared from beneath the soil.


    All four cultivators also had tattoos, each representing a different creature from the five poisons: the centipede, the poisonous snake, the scorpion, and the gecko!


    All five men were at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    "I''m quite curious why you''re called the Seven Fiends instead of the Five Fiends!" Lin Shiming initially panicked, but after he saw that the formation was only a second-rank intermediate-grade Trapping Formation, he somewhat rxed.


    "Because in our Lingnan..." the bald cultivator with the toad tattoo started to reply, but he was interrupted by the leading snake-tattooed cultivator.


    "Quit your foolish exnations. The kid is releasing a spirit seed, a wood attribute cultivator!" After speaking, the snake-tattooed cultivator raised his hand, produced a snake drum, and then an untold number of five-colored and seven-colored poisonous snakes appeared, flying toward Lin Shiming andpany.


    When Lin Shiming saw that he had been discovered, he no longer hid his actions and madly cast his Spirit Arts with his hands.


    Suddenly, countless wood vines rose into the sky.


    This time, Lin Shijie wanted to test his sword, and Lin Shiming was equally keen to test his magic!


    With Lin Shiming''s Qi Cultivation at the Ninth Level and more condensed Spiritual Power, the wood vines catalyzed by his Wood Vine Technique seemed endless, densely bursting out in all directions.


    The multitude of spirit snakes was soon submerged, and although some red snakes could still spit fire, burning through the vines, once they cleared a patch,


    the wood vines burned like oil, crackling loudly, and actually created an evenrger sea of fire, which instead trapped the Five Fiends.


    But in the next moment, a giant fire snake appeared and swallowed all the mes in one gulp.


    "Careful of the ground!" Lin Shiming warned Lin Shijie.


    Then they saw huge pythons, exceedingly thick, burst from the earth.


    The cultivation of these pythons was formidable; each was at the peak of the second-rank mid-stage, and their numbers were vast.


    At this moment, Lin Shijie also began to wield his sword, employing the Fire-returning Fire Sword technique. As his three-colored Fire Sword surged, he sliced through the giant pythons as easily as cutting melons, severing several second-rank mid-stage pythons in half.


    Meanwhile, the other four Fiends started their attacks.


    Aside from the Snake Fiend, the other four did not summon scorpions or toads; instead, their Spirit Patterns flickered as they began to partially transform.


    The bald cultivator, transformed into a half-toad, leaped hundreds of meters in one bound, arriving right before Lin Shiming and hispanion, and mming down a massive seal towards Lin Shiming.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming did not hesitate and immediately released the Red-haired Demon Monkey from his Storage Bag to fight the bald cultivator.


    As for himself, hemanded three Supreme Grade Flying Swords to directly confront the half-transformed Scorpion and Centipede Fiends; among them, one condensed a massive, gleaming poisonous hook with extraordinary toxicity, hissing corrosively even in open air,


    while the other formed numerous spirit energy legs, continuously shuttling through the soil, asionallyunching sneak attacks on Lin Shiming.


    Thest two, the Gecko Fiend and the Snake Fiend, faced Lin Shijie.


    However, the next moment, just when Lin Shiming was preparing to release the Snake Vine Flower and Iron Thornwood, he suddenly felt a tremendous wave of Spirit Might bearing down fiercely upon him.


    "A Foundation Establishment cultivator!" Lin Shiming was immensely shocked, not having anticipated a Foundation Establishment cultivator would act without martial virtue at this moment, his whole body trembling under the crushing pressure of the Spirit Might!

 Chapter 86 Various Foundation Establishments Appear

    In the cloudless sky far and wide, a ck-robed cultivator brandishing a Poisonous Dragon tattoo descended, followed closely by a ck Spirit w released entirely from Spiritual Energy.


    The ck Spirit w was so immense that it nearly covered half of the sky.


    Carrying an iparable spiritual pressure, it fiercely wed towards Lin Shiming.


    Under the tremendous pressure, Lin Shiming felt as if he were bearing the weight of Mount Tai, and it was with great difficulty that he managed to take out two Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts.


    At the same time, he was also tightly clutching an Earth Escape Talisman in his hand.


    Although the earth might not be safe either, he had no other choice.


    The gap between Foundation Establishment and Qi Cultivation was like a chasm separating heaven and earth.


    But before the w couldnd, another blue Flying Sword, with a trail of blue sword light, fiercely shed onto the w, instantly scattering sparks like a gxy, and the ngor of sharp weapons seemed as if it would explode everything.


    Lin Shiming was familiar with the Third Rank Magic Sword; it was the same one he had given to his father.


    He never expected that his father, Lin Houyuan, would also havee in secret.


    "Lin Houyuan!" The Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator, whose attack was thwarted, was not annoyed, but instead looked at Lin Houyuan with confidence as if holding the winning ticket.


    "Is there another Foundation Establishment cultivator who hase knocking at the door?"


    "Fellow Daoist Li, there''s no need for you to hide anymore. Once we kill this father and son of the Lin Family, there will be no one left to seed them!" The Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator then looked aside, and beneath the Intermediate Grade Formation, there was a Spirit Concealing Formation, from which a middle-aged man in a blue robe emerged.


    However, thetter didn''t look at Lin Houyuan, nor did he move towards the Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator.


    Instead, he eerily spoke to the void.


    "Lin Xianzhi, as expected, you''vee!"


    The previous Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator was suddenly shocked; he had swept the area countless times with his Divine Sense, and the Lin Family couldn''t possibly have set up a formation that he would fail to detect.


    Of course, it wasn''t just the opposing cultivators who were shocked; Lin Shijie was also greatly surprised.


    He had originally thought it to be a simple matter of killing a malevolent cultivator, but never imagined it would escte to a collision between Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Li Xiulei, it''s actually you!" Lin Xianzhi, looking at the man in blue in front of him, also raised his eyebrows and said.


    "Come on, it''s been a long time since I exchanged blows with a pure Sword Cultivator. I hope you won''t be too much of a disappointment!" Li Xiulei said as he directly cast a thunderbolt spell at Lin Xianzhi.


    One a Sword Cultivator, the other a Lightning Cultivator, both were the utmost in terms of speed and attack.


    Time had only passed in an instant, yet they had already exchanged over a hundred moves in that brief moment.


    They fought from the lower altitudes to the high skies.


    Sword light shed without end, while thunder roared ceaselessly.


    At the same time, Lin Houyuan also entered into battle with the Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator, one of the Seven Fiends.


    Both were at the Early Stage of Foundation Establishment, but the Poisonous Dragon tattooed cultivator was clearly a powerful Body Cultivator, employing the Flood Dragonbat techniques, and managed to suppress Lin Houyuan throughout the fight.


    And as the Foundation Establishment cultivators were embroiled inbat, down below, Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie also began their move with great tacit understanding.


    Especially Lin Shiming, who was extremely skilled in this kind of battle.


    His slender fingers deftly cast several Spirit Arts, and in an instant, ten Snake Vine Flowers, as well as ten Iron Thornwood, uprooted themselves from the ground.


    Lin Shiming had cultivated this batch of Iron Thornwood from seeds for five years, and there were dozens of them. At this moment, he unleashed ten of them without hesitation.


    With the sounds of tearing earth, the vines transformed from seeds into massive tendrils that reached for the sky in an instant.


    Before the Five Fiends could react, Lin Shiming had already bound the Scorpion Fiend and Gecko Fiend cultivators.


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    The Centipede Fiend cultivator directly used the Earth Escape Technique to flee, while the Toad Fiend cultivator, as nimble as a toad, dodged with a leap. The Snake Fiend cultivator was even more eerie. In the blink of an eye, the figure that was ying the snake drum had turned into a giant python and then used the Earth Escape Skill.


    "Big brother, watch out!" Lin Shiming''s heart sank in an instant, realizing that the Snake Fiend must have also undergone a half-beast transformation and was hiding.


    The only ones able to attack were him and Lin Shijie, but with ten menacing Snake Vine Flowers and ten Iron Thornwood in front of him, no one dared toe close. Naturally, the Snake Fiend was targeting Lin Shijie.


    Indeed, just as Lin Shijie took to the sky on his Flying Sword, alerted by Lin Shiming''s warning, the stone fragments scattered. A giant snake''s mouth lunged viciously at the spot where Lin Shijie had just been standing.


    With a crack, boulders the size of houses were crushed to bits by the sharp fangs on the snake''s head.


    Lin Shijie broke out in a cold sweat, but his body surged with endless Sword Qi. With a clench of his fist, the Fire-returning Fire Sword transformed into a giant sword over nine meters long, with tricolored mes eerily burning on it. The frightening high temperature caused the air to explode with a bang.


    sh!


    With a light shout, the Fire-returning Fire Sword shot out from his body, shing toward the Snake Fiend.


    Seeing that Lin Shijie was unharmed, Lin Shiming also let down his guard. In the sky, the ten Snake Vine Flowers almost simultaneously targeted the Scorpion Fiend and Gecko Fiend cultivators.


    Terrifying venom poured out, and Lin Shiming took this moment to see if the two cultivators'' flesh could match that of a Demonic Beast.


    However, the intense screams proved that although both cultivators had undergone half-beast transformations, they were still only made of flesh and blood.


    Under the severe poisoning, they wailed miserably, and then Lin Shiming''s Green Sky Sword easily sliced off their heads.


    The remaining Toad Fiend and Centipede Fiend cultivators wanted to save the former two, but what they faced was an endless downpour of poisonous thorns.


    If they could still react to the Snake Vine Flowers'' speed, the dense barrage of poisonous thorns rained down like a sea of needles, impossible to evadepletely.


    Although their speed and escape techniques were numerous, they clearly could not achieve the realm of remaining untouched by the deluge.


    "You think mere thorns can stop us?" However, the poisonous thorns, after all, were only Superior Grade Spirit Vines that relied on quantity for victory. The two half-beast cultivators were protected by Spirit Armor, Spirit Shield, and Spirit Talisman, which failed to inflict significant damage on either Fiend cultivator.


    But before the Toad Fiend with the bald head could be too pleased, the Red-haired Demon Monkey descended from the sky, its Thousand Layer Mountain smashing down fiercely.


    It aimed directly at the bald head of the bald cultivator.


    Although taken by surprise, thetter was not unprepared, and his Spirit Shield blocked the attack in a sh.


    The massive force nearly sent the Spirit Shield flying, and what followed was a huge iron rod, thrusting straight at the bald cultivator.


    The Toad Fiend with the bald head puffed his cheeks like a toad and leaped high into the air, his bouncing power and speed far exceeding that of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, who had just reached thetter stage of the Second Rank, dodging by moving to the side.


    The bald cultivator was about tough out loud when two white Profound Soul Needles shot from the body of the Red-haired Demon Monkey toward the Toad Fiend bald cultivator, who had no chance to dodge.


    The Spirit Needles pierced through his brain, causing his immediate demise.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming also turned his attention toward the remaining Centipede Fiend cultivator.


    After a series of maneuvers, Lin Shiming had scared both the Snake Fiend and Centipede Fiend cultivators out of their wits. As Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, Lin Shiming''s arsenal was just too vast, and his Spiritual Energy seemed inexhaustible, without even the need to consume Spirit Water or Spirit Pills!

 Chapter 87 Gold Threads and Silver Strands

    Off to the side, atop a small hill, Lin Houyuan wielded a sword and shield but ultimately, having entered the Foundation Establishment stage too recently, he could only continuously defend.


    Huge swathes of sand and gravel were flung by the Poisonous Dragon Cultivator''s grasping moves, those ck spirit ws seemingly unstoppable.


    If grasped by them, even a body cultivator in Foundation Establishment would likely suffer a serious injury.


    Transformed into a half-dragon cultivator, he left Lin Houyuan utterly incapable of countering.


    Yet Lin Houyuan kept defending, and with aplete set of third-rank magic artifacts for protection, it left the Poisonous Dragon Cultivator with an extremely unsightlyplexion.


    Although he was known as one of the Lingnan Seven Fiends, in the end, it was only due to his lucky breakthrough to Foundation Establishment that he had gained some reputation, with almost no wealth or heritage to speak of.


    "Lin Houyuan, you keep defending; do you not want to save your son?"


    "Do you really think Li Xiulei is the cultivator we''ve asked for help?"


    Lin Houyuan felt a sudden jolt upon hearing this, indeed.


    Li Xiulei belonged to the Purple Mansion''s Li Family, not the Huangyun Li Family. If he made a move, and it reached the Qingxuan Sect, the Zi Xuan Hermit could grasp the Li Family by the neck.


    Moreover, aside from Li Xiulei, no other cultivators from the Li Family had shown up, which was highly unusual.


    The possibility that someone else was targeting the Lin Family was very high; the Lingnan Seven Fiends were at most aplices, and Li Xiulei was simply invited to counter Lin Xianzhi.


    "You''re right, he''s now lying in wait in the dark to strike against your son!" the Poisonous Dragon Cultivator said once more.


    After hearing this, Lin Houyuan looked extremely troubled.


    Although he didn''t fully believe the Poisonous Dragon Cultivator, considering the current situation, Lin Shiming was definitely going to face an ambush.


    He wanted to break through, even if he couldn''t escape, at least to send out a warning.


    But the moment he attacked, he would expose a weakness, and as a Body Refinementbat cultivator, he was virtually a humanoid demonic beast.


    In the blink of an eye, Lin Houyuan was covered in injuries.


    Yet he still continued to attack, heading in the direction of Lin Shiming, seizing the opportunity tounch a Transmission Talisman.


    He knew it was the Poisonous Dragon Cultivator''s trickery, but faced with such deceit, he was unable to calm his heart, nor could he stand by powerlessly.


    ¡­


    The cratered ground had been drilled with countless holes by the Centipede Cultivator, densely packed together.


    Lin Shiming''s Flying Sword followed closely behind; should the Centipede Cultivator slow down even slightly, it would be able to y him.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey, on Lin Shiming''smand, also continuously cornered the Centipede Cultivator.


    However, at crucial moments, it would simply burrow into the ground, which was utterly irritating.


    It was precisely because of his Earth Escape ability that the Centipede Cultivator didn''t flee, but instead kept looking for opportunities, significantly draining Lin Shiming''s spiritual power as well.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming decisively stopped pursuing andmanded the Red-haired Demon Monkey to engage the Centipede Cultivator in closebat, while he himself maneuvered his Flying Sword straight toward the Poisonous Serpent Cultivator.


    Thetter had transformed into a giant python, making for an easy target to decapitate with the Flying Sword.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Shijie quickly formed a pincer attack.


    All of a sudden, the face of the Poisonous Serpent Cultivator paled, especially upon seeing Lin Shiming''s recent disy of might, he had no intention of fighting and immediately burrowed into the ground.


    Lin Shiming chose not to take out an Earth Escape Talisman to follow them underground, as chasing them could lead to danger given his unfamiliarity with subterraneanbat.


    Lin Shiming took out an intermediate-grade Spirit Stone, pretended to start recovering his spiritual power, and looked toward Lin Shijie, hoping that thetter could set up a Trapping Formation.


    With the Trapping Formation in ce, they could at least take down another of the Lingnan Seven Fiends.


    Lin Shijie too was feeling discontented at that moment, his rare opportunity for action having fled underground.


    Therefore, he took out the Trapping Formation and started to set up formation gs, while Lin Shiming protected him while he worked.


    It was at this moment that both the Poisonous Serpent Cultivator and the Centipede Cultivator simultaneously made their move against Lin Shiming.


    The former spat out a Green Snake Sword which instantly transformed into a streak of sword light heading for Lin Shiming, while thetter plunged a hook deep into the ground.


    The next moment, a venomous hook formed from the ground and jabbed towards Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming raised his hand and threw out several seeds of the Iron Thornwood, while at the same time, three Spirit Swords formed a trigram shape to protect him,


    The ck Spirit Hook and the Spirit Sword in his mouth were both blocked by Lin Shiming''s Spirit Swords.


    However, just as Lin Shiming was about to attack with his sword, the system unexpectedly sounded an alert.


    This was also the first time the system issued a warning duringbat.


    "Please be careful of the sneak attack from the golden threads and silver strands!"


    Lin Shiming instantly felt his hair stand on end.


    There were other people!


    Since it was a sneak attack, there definitely had to be someone else.


    And it was the sinister kin of needle and thread magic artifacts, probably even more cunning than his own Profound Soul Needle.


    Suppressing the shock in his heart, Lin Shiming flipped his hand and cast a Spirit Art that was the reverse of the one he had used before.


    In the air, the three Spirit Swords, originally shot out, had their trajectory forcibly interrupted by Lin Shiming and flew around him instead; at that moment, the Thick Earth Shield and another Supreme Grade Spirit Shield unfolded in an instant, rotating 360 degrees to protect Lin Shiming within.


    The very next moment, Lin Shiming felt a blinding sh of golden light silently appear all around him.


    The three Spirit Swords touched it first, immediately producing a screech of metal shearing.


    A shower of sparks burst forth, allowing Lin Shiming to see that it was an extremely fine silver thread.


    Not visible to the naked eye, what was most crucial was that even Divine Sense couldn''t detect it.


    For cultivators, it was often not the eyes but the Divine Sense they relied on to survey their surroundings.


    Such a deeply concealed silver thread magic artifact¡ªif not for the system''s warning¡ªhe certainly wouldn''t have reacted in time.


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    Lin Shiming felt a surge of dread in his heart and, in order not to continue being attacked by the silver thread, his three Supreme Grade spirit swords started to circle, attempting to entangle the silver threads.


    But the silver thread was pulled away with a tug and disappeared once again.


    And the ce where it disappeared was precisely where the bald cultivator with the toad fiend mark had been standing before.


    It was evident there was a concealed Spirit Formation designed to hold and hide one''s breath within the Trapping Formation.


    At this point, the Formation was activated again, and a middle-aged cultivator walked out, still wearing the same spirit-separating veil as before.


    "It''s actually Daoist Wu!" Lin Shiming recognized the Wu-surnamed cultivator at a nce.


    He had not expected that after he had spared the man from being killed, it was thetter who hade to his doorstep, seeking to silence him.


    "Daoist Lin is truly capable, even able to detect a golden thread and silver strand magic artifact," said the Wu-surnamed cultivator, his tone carrying a hint of admiration while his demeanor was extremely rxed¡ªas if the person who had just tried to kill Lin Shiming was not him at all.


    Lin Shiming wanted to continue asking, but then he noticed that some seeds in front of him were suddenly crushed, yet there was nothing to be seen.


    Lin Shiming was instantly rmed; Daoist Wu truly lived up to his reputation as the one who killed the member of the Spirit Beast Sect, with every word being a trap.


    A corner of his mouth conveyed pleasure and rxation to divert attention, but in actuality, he had already employed a Demonic Beast!


    Only after scanning carefully with Divine Sense did he suddenly detect a transparent light flicker past, outlining a faint shadow of a lizard in the void, one that was difficult for the eyes to see and which simrly possessed the ability to hide from Divine Sense.


    It was clearly a color-changing lizard Demonic Beast.


    The lizard approached rapidly, and upon sensing that Lin Shiming had discovered it, it dropped all pretense and lunged at Lin Shiming without dy.


    The next moment, the Iron Thornwood seeds that had been catalyzed burst from the ground, blocking the path of the color-changing lizard Demonic Beastpletely, and a deluge of Iron Thorn spikes rained down upon it.


    And almost at the same moment the lizard made its move, a Red-haired Demon Monkey dropped from the sky, swinging its staff towards the Wu-surnamed cultivator.


    And just as it was about to strike, the Red-haired Demon Monkey suddenly pulled out the Thousand Layer Mountain, smashing it towards the Wu-surnamed cultivator. Normally, any cultivator would be caught off guard.


    However, the Wu-surnamed cultivator, who had been observing for a long time, showed no surprise. With a mere wave of his hand, a ck gori burst forth¡ªa Second Rankte-stage Demonic Beast with rugged hide and thick flesh.


    The ck gori took out a Second Rank Supreme Grade shield and fiercely topped it against the Thousand Layer Mountain, sending it flying away, then clenched its fist and smashed it towards the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and the two immediately engaged in a fierce brawl.

 Chapter 88: Chapter 88 Spiritual Power Contest

    In the nameless hillocks, Lin Shiming gazed intently at the Wu family cultivator, his expression solemn.


    The Wu family cultivator was definitely the most troublesome opponent he had ever encountered. In usual battles, he was able to take control of the situation quickly with his powerful wooden Spirit Seeds, demonic beasts, and ample Spiritual Energy, but this time, the opponent before him was unpredictable.


    And it was very likely that this person was also a disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect; otherwise, he wouldn''t have so many powerful Spirit Beasts, nor the opportunity to kill an inner disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect.


    Therefore, Lin Shiming did not release the Golden Winged Mantis immediately.


    The Golden Winged Mantis was definitely his trump card; the Snake Vine Flower seeds needed to be recharged with spiritual energy after releasing their toxins.


    Lin Shiming grabbed a handful of Spirit Talismans and threw them at the chameleon lizard, then took out a Five Elements tower and bombarded the chameleon lizard demonic beast with Five Elements spells.


    Seeing Lin Shiming aiming to kill his demonic beast, the Wu family cultivator didn''t pause, drawing a golden ring magic artifact, tossed it into the air, forming a golden circr light shield that blocked in front of the Five Elements tower.


    Countless spells rained down, but they could only transform into streaks of Spirit Light.


    They didn''te close to touching the chameleon lizard.


    The chameleon lizard continued to charge at Lin Shiming.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was not panicked; his fingers swiftly performed a spell gesture. Surprisingly, two Profound Soul Needles were inteced within two ice crystal Spirit Talisman.


    The Profound Soul Needles circled in the air, emitting a bright white Spirit Light and shooting out cold glints, and in the next moment, they pointed straight at the Wu family cultivator.


    ng!


    The two previously unstoppable Profound Soul Needles stopped one meter in front of the Wu family cultivator, as a golden glimmering Spirit Shield blocked them both.


    And in the next moment, Lin Shiming''s supreme-grade flying swords and Spirit Shields revolved at high speed, once again colliding with the golden thread silver fment magic artifact.


    Numerous sparks flew, the Spirit Light astonishing.


    Both of their eyebrows raised almost simultaneously, followed by a knowing smile.


    An ambush, a kindred spirit.


    Lin Shiming performed another spell gesture, and numerous wooden vines grew out. But this time, they didn''t entangle the Wu family cultivator but rather wrapped around Lin Shiming. Then, ten Snake Vine Flower seeds appeared in Lin Shiming''s hands.


    In the next moment, they were buried into various covert corners.


    The Wu family cultivator saw this move and with a wave of his hand, surprisingly, three more Spirit Beasts appeared: a Green Horned Barbarian Ox, a Blue Spirit Thunder Leopard, and a Yong Ye Bat.


    All three demonic beasts were in theter stages of Second Rank, their strength not the slightest bit inferior to the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The three demonic beasts howled to the sky before charging at Lin Shiming together, with the Yong Ye Bat moving the fastest, followed closely by the Blue Spirit Thunder Leopard, apanied by thunder elemental spells.


    The emergence of the three demonic beasts eased the Wu family cultivator''s brows slightly. He didn''t believe that Lin Shiming could survive this time, with the addition of the chameleon lizard¡ªthat was four Second Rankte-stage demonic beasts.


    However, seeing Lin Shiming''s calm expression, he felt a slight disappointment.


    The next moment, Lin Shiming issued a series of spell gestures. First, ten Iron Thornwood roots broke through the soil, obstructing much of the path the three demonic beasts had taken. Then, ten more Snake Vine Flowers rose up again.


    The agile and immensely sturdy Snake Vines quickly entwined around the three demonic beasts. Only the Yong Ye Bat managed to dodge a section but was about to face the Iron Thornwood''s thorny rain assault.


    The Wu family cultivator''s face remained as usual, even carrying a hint of mockery.


    Even if Lin Shiming had them bound, would he dare to release his three supreme-grade Flying Swords?


    If he did, his golden thread silver fments would be able to break through Lin Shiming''s Spirit Shield and strangle him directly.


    The next moment, a massive surge of golden light appeared, then, like lightning, rushed towards the three bound demonic beasts.


    The golden mantis des shone brilliantly, followed by the head of the Green Horned Ox flying high into the air.


    The Wu-surnamed cultivator''s pupils shrank, and he hastily pped out several Spirit Talismans, trying to save the remaining blue Demonic Leopard Beast and the dark bat Demonic Beast.


    He couldn''t understand at all why the Demonic Beasts'' terrifying defenses, which were formidable on any other day, now seemed like a joke in front of the Golden Winged Mantis.


    "Is this a Third Rank Demonic Beast offspring?" entertained the Wu-surnamed cultivator a possibility.


    Lin Shiming did not respond, but of course, the Golden Winged Mantis answered for him.


    With the golden light shining brightly, the three bound Demonic Beasts werepletely helpless and became souls under the Mantis''s des.


    The remaining bat Demonic Beast, though, was not slow.


    Yet under the dual influence of the Snake Vine Flower and Iron Thornwood, it still revealed a weakness to the Golden Winged Mantis, who with a single slice, also cut it into two halves.


    Lin Shiming was just about to breathe a sigh of relief when the next moment, he felt golden threads and silver strands appearing around him.


    What was terrifying was that in the next moment, the golden threads and silver strands suddenly doubled in length, bypassing the three Spirit Swords and continuing to wrap around the Spirit Shield, and then reaching Lin Shiming''s neck.


    With a chilling glint, the silver strands moved at a terrifying speed. Just as they came half a meter from his neck, the Green Sky Sword flew out and blocked the attack of the golden threads and silver strands, sending countless sparks onto Lin Shiming''s body. The sparks were extinguished by the Spirit Shield of his Taoist robe.


    Lin Shiming was quite frightened afterward, fortunate that he had left the Green Sky Sword as a precaution, otherwise, at that moment, he truly might have been strangled to death by the slender yet sharp silver strands.


    Lin Shiming continued to concentrate intensely and once again controlled the Snake Vine Flower and Iron Thornwood to move toward the Wu-surnamed cultivator, also sending the Golden Winged Mantis to rush at thetter.


    The Wu-surnamed cultivator, who had failed in his assassination attempt, was greatly disappointed. After all, a Direct Disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect had died by his hand in the same way.


    People tend to have a habitual way of thinking. When he used only half of the golden threads and silver strands, he made his enemy cultivator believe that they were only that long. However, in reality, he had concealed the other half, not expecting that Lin Shiming, who always kept a trick up his sleeve, would break his technique.


    The arrival of the Golden Winged Mantispletely panicked the Wu-surnamed cultivator.


    At the same time, he pulled out a Magic Artifact in the shape of a golden bell. The artifact suddenly expanded many times over and locked onto the high-speed Golden Winged Mantis, enveloping it.


    Meanwhile, he stepped back and re-entered the Hiding Spirit Formation.


    The formation obscured vision and spiritual energy, but what transmitted out was an enormous spiritual pressure.


    "He''s using a talisman artifact!" Lin Shiming''s heart instantly turned cold.


    Seeing this, he did not hesitate, pulling out several Spirit Talismans and also a Purple Sword Talisman.


    He was not an Array Master. He wasn''t sure he could break the formation instantly, and if he could not disrupt the formation before the Wu-surnamed cultivator activated his talisman artifact, he would face a devastating talisman artifact.


    The risk was too great. He chose another path, also pulling out a talisman artifact for a talisman artifact sh!


    Spiritual Power for the win!


    With continual hand signs, a Purple Spirit Sword formed out of nowhere within the purple Spirit Talisman, the Sword Qiparable to Foundation Establishment circted endlessly around the Purple Spirit Sword.


    Almost simultaneously, the Wu-surnamed cultivator also activated his talisman artifact, which was also a sword.


    Its power was very much simr to that of Lin Shiming''s Purple Sword Talisman. Enjoy exclusive chapters from m-v l''e|-NovelBin


    "A battle of Spiritual Power, huh?" Lin Shiming murmured, and then the Purple Spirit Sword broke through the air with a sh.


    At that moment, the figure of the Wu-surnamed cultivator appeared again, with a corner of his mouth holding a small bottle, which contained a drop of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, far more precious than Spirit Water.


    A single drop could instantly restore all the Spiritual Energy of someone in the Qi Refinement Realm.


    The Wu-surnamed cultivator swallowed the Spirit Milk in one gulp, then fixing his gaze on Lin Shiming, he spoke with utmost confidence, "You had a slim chance if you gambled on breaking the formation, what a pity..."

 Chapter 89 The Great Geng Metal Talisman (4th Update)

    Faced with the Wu surnamed cultivator''s inexplicable confidence, Lin Shiming looked at the nearly double amount of spiritual energy remaining within the Heart of Heavenwood, a hint of joy inside him, but he did not show it.


    The purple Spirit Sword and the Wu surnamed cultivator''s green Spirit Sword stirred up one sword scar after another in the air.


    The sword light was brilliant, the sword qi fluctuated dramatically, and countless mountains and rocks were destroyed.


    The sword dao prowess at the Foundation Establishment Stage had nearly exhausted all of their focus; neither had any leeway to use other methods.


    And with both Purple Mansion magic artifacts having simr power, the battle now was entirely a contest of spiritual energy reserves.


    This was a test of the cultivator''s cultivation technique rank and recovery speed.


    When the Wu surnamed cultivator''s spiritual energy was half-depleted, drops of sweat also fell from Lin Shiming''s forehead, so the Wu surnamed cultivator was still somewhat relieved. Explore more stories at m,v l''e-NovelBin


    He had used Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, his spiritual energy was full before the treasure battle, while Lin Shiming had already been through several fights, and even if he had some means to recover spiritual energy, they certainly couldn''t match his.


    Besides, his was an inferior grade Profound Rank technique from the Spirit Beast Sect.


    But when his spiritual energy was only at thirty percent, he noticed with a solemn heart that Lin Shiming looked exactly the same as before¡ªthe number of drops falling, the expression, all the same.


    He could only keep reassuring himself that Lin Shiming was pretending!


    And when only ten percent of spiritual energy was left, the Wu surnamed cultivator''s face began to twist.


    He couldn''t believe it, nor did he want to, because Lin Shiming still looked the same!


    The sweat drops were the same, even the expression didn''t differ by a bit!


    It was still that appearance of spiritual energy seemingly about to run out!


    The Wu surnamed cultivator was almost breaking down; he had finally left the Spirit Beast Sect, plotted for the Foundation Establishment Pill, plotted for the Minor Divine Ability fruit trees, his path, in front of the Purple Mansion, was all smooth sailing.


    With treasures like the gold-threaded and silver-threaded useful in secretive battles, he always believed, even if he fell, it would only be while entering the Golden Core stage from the Purple Mansion.


    "Impossible, how can you still have spiritual energy, you must be forcing yourself!"


    Facing the hysterics of the Wu surnamed cultivator, Lin Shiming could somewhat understand, but he did not respond.


    Sometimes, the scorn of ignoring is more intimidating than mocking scorn, and his Seventh Great-Uncle was just such a person.


    The hysterics of the Wu surnamed cultivator didn''tst long, as with the stroke of the purple Spirit Sword breaking through the air, the Wu surnamed cultivator, drained of spiritual energy, died.


    Lin Shiming collected both the Wu surnamed cultivator''s storage bag and treasures, as well as the Small Bell Magical Instrument into his pouch, and therefore the Golden Winged Mantis was released.


    The moment the Golden Winged Mantis appeared, it screeched angrily, its two mantis des chopping madly, stirring up countless glints of gold.


    It peeled off severalyers of the nearby ground before charging at the ck giant ape that was still fighting the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Thetter, fiercely brawling, didn''t expect a golden mantis to fly towards it.


    The golden des sliced again, leaving two shadow trails, and with the sound of a crunch, blood spurted out, and the ck giant ape''s head fell to the ground.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey, still baring its teeth in a roar, struck the ck giant ape''s corpse several more times with its club, only then howling in relief.


    After collecting the corpses of the Demonic Beasts and the two Spirit Beasts, Lin Shiming nned to find Lin Shijie,


    At that time, after Lin Shijie hadid the Spirit Formation, the Second Fiend chose to flee, and Lin Shijie followed suit.


    Releasing his Divine Sense to survey the surroundings, he saw no sign of Lin Shijie and gave up the search, then, after a moment of thought, headed toward Lin Houyuan''s battlefield.


    He hadn''t put away his magic artifact, and at this moment, it could still exert the might of a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Moreover, with more than half of the spiritual energy in his Heart of Heavenwood still left, he was somewhat worried about his father.


    By the time he arrived, he just happened to see the leader of the Seven Fiends of Lingnan, Poisonous Dragon, furiously attacking Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Houyuan was covered in blood, battling the frenzied attacks of the Poisonous Dragon like a tiny boat in a storm, at any moment liable to capsize.


    Lin Shiming didn''t dare to hesitate, and his purple Spirit Talisman Flying Sword shed toward the Poisonous Dragon''s nape.


    Thetter was shocked to see Lin Shiming as well,pletely disbelieving until its divine sense swept toward the small hill and discovered there were no traces of the Five Fiends or any cultivator with the surname Wu.


    Only then did it widen its eyes in realization, and a wary look flickered across its face.


    "Brat, such a monstrous talent, you must not be left alive!" The Poisonous Dragon''s expression was sinister as it pped the void with its hand.


    Immediately, a rtively smaller ck Flood Dragon''s w materialized, swiping at Lin Shiming.


    Although the spiritual w was smaller, it was still the size of a small mountain and seemed to be infused with denser spiritual power and True Yuan.


    The oppressive might of Foundation Establishment was even stronger than before, but at this moment, Lin Shiming was different from just a moment ago, almost entirely shielded from the oppressive might by his Purple Mansion Talisman''s Purple Spirit Sword.


    With one strike, countless ripples of purple radiance emanated.


    However, Lin Shiming still underestimated the Foundation Establishment cultivator as this single w strike directly shattered Lin Shiming''s Purple Spirit Sword Talisman into pieces, dissipating the gathered spiritual power.


    Fortunately, the true power and spirit might of the spiritual w had mostly dissipated as well, with the remainder crushed by Lin Shiming wielding his Green Sky Sword with one stroke.


    Despite the rupture and disappearance of his talisman, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but spit out a mouthful of fresh blood.


    In a critical moment, he clenched his teeth and formed a hand seal, and in the blink of an eye, ten Snake Vine Flowers broke through the soil and entwined toward the Poisonous Dragon.


    Under his full exertion, the Snake Vine Flowers erupted, surrounding and bursting forth from every direction.


    Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator was too slow to react and was bound by two of the vines but as Lin Shiming prepared to make the venom spray, in the blink of an eye, the Poisonous Dragon forcefully burst them apart.


    However, being bound for even an instant was seen by Lin Houyuan as a tremendous opportunity.


    He pulled out a Spirit Talisman from his hand and pressed down, and it transformed into a gigantic Geng Metal sword!


    "How do you have a third rank Superior Grade Great Geng Sword Talisman?" The eyes of the Poisonous Dragon cultivator were filled with horror.


    He hadn''t expected that Lin Houyuan would possess such an exceptional offensive Spirit Talisman. If he had known Lin Houyuan had such a killing talisman, he would have never engaged in battle with Hou Yuan.


    What was even more fatal was he found himself unable to move.


    As the Great Geng Sword Talisman was activated, nearly a hundred zhang of golden sword aura shone brightly, overshadowing the sun and dazzling to behold.


    Everything the sword light enveloped turned to ashes.


    The Poisonous Dragon cultivator, no matter how heaven-defying his body, was left with no choice but to sumb under the precise activation of the Great Geng Sword Talisman.


    Leaving behind only a Storage Bag and a single Poisonous Dragon''s w.


    Seeing the w, Lin Shiming also recalled the Five Fiends who had left simr beast limbs, suggesting that these legendary Seven Fiends of Lingnan likely cultivated a half-beast transformation body refining technique.


    "Shiming, let''s go find Seventh Great-Uncle!" Despite his numerous injuries, Lin Houyuan spoke up after consuming a third rank Healing Pill.


    Now that the Lin Family had a third rank Alchemist, the several third rank elixir recipes left behind by the Purple Mansion Family finally had their use.


    Otherwise, for the Lin Family, having more cultivators at the Foundation Establishment Stage would mean a significant expense for third rank elixirs.


    The two of them hurried to the site of Lin Xianzhi and Li Xiulei''s battle.


    The ground was littered with scorch marks and sword scars, pockmarked and ravaged, some areas wrought with lingering sword qi while others crackled with lingering arcs of electricity.


    Their battle had leveled nearly half a mountain top.


    In the sky, the two were still locked in a stalemate, but Li Xiulei''s face turned exceedingly grim upon seeing Lin Houyuan and Lin Shiming, and after a nce, he immediately escaped using his thunder techniques.


    Lin Xianzhi didn''t give chase, nor could he chase. Both Sword Cultivators and Thunder Cultivators excelled inbat, but it must be noted that Lin Xianzhi had only recently entered theter stage of Foundation Establishment, while Li Xiulei had been at that stage for decades!


    Moreover, at this time, a streak of sword light appeared in the distance, and upon seeing it, Lin Shiming realized that the neer was none other than Xie An from Qingxuan Sect.

 Chapter 90: Chapter 90 Post-War Gains

    In a deeper part of the bamboo forest in Xing County Square Market, the tranquility here is unmatched.


    A few sparsely distributed small wooden housesy within the bamboo forest, with a stream babbling by.


    From time to time, some bamboo rats would leap around.


    And at this moment within one of these small wooden houses, Lin Shiming finally opened his eyes.


    A full day and night had passed since the battle, and he, whose spiritual energy was nearly depleted, had finally restored it all.


    On that day, when Xie An arrived, the great battle had already concluded.


    Not only did the conflict on Lin Shiming''s side end, but the disturbance in Xing County Square Market had also ceased.


    The remaining one of the Seven Fiends of Lingnan, an early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, along with arge group of evil cultivators, had intended to take advantage of the Lin Family''s leaders being out to plunder all of the Lin Family''s treasures.


    But what they did not know was that not only had Lin Houyong reached Foundation Establishment, but Xie An was also hidden in this bamboo forest.


    In the end, all the evil cultivators were captured in one fell swoop.


    And the final Great Geng Sword Talisman from Lin Houyuan was indeed a purchase that cost the Lin Family over two hundred thousand Spirit Stones.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath, relieved at the favorable oue. The Lin Family had not suffered any losses, and on the contrary, they had acquired the wealth of the Seven Fiends of Lingnan. They even requested Xie An to report up to the Qingxuan Sect, and thus, there was a good chance that Lingnan County would also be annexed into the Lin Family''s territories.


    Although Lingnan County was more remote and less popted than Xing County, making it possible for the malicious Seven Fiends to take control in the first ce.


    Lin Shiming shook his head and stopped dwelling on these thoughts, instead, he took out the Storage Bag he had obtained from the spoils. This time, his gains were indeed substantial.


    Setting aside other treasures, the Magic Artifact of golden thread and silver wire from the bald-headed cultivator was a rare and powerful weapon. Even after reaching Foundation Establishment, it would still provide a chance for a surprise attack when facing other Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Now, Lin Shiming finally had time to sort through his spoils. First, he pulled out the Storage Bag of the bald-headed cultivator and a Spirit Beast Bag, which contained the Red Spirit Fish that the Lin Family needed this time.


    Then he turned his attention to the Storage Bag, only to be somewhat disappointed after a thorough inspection.


    The bald-headed cultivator talked a big game, but in reality, his Storage Bag was quite poor.


    The only item of note was a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact; even the defensive Magic Artifacts were only of Superior Grade. This was considered inferior not only to him but even to the core disciples of the Lin Family.


    The Storage Bags of the other two Fiends were much the same. In total, Lin Shiming had gained three Supreme Grade offensive Magic Artifacts, one Supreme Grade defensive Magic Artifact, and seven thousand Spirit Stones.


    As for the Superior Grade Magic Artifacts and various Elixirs and talisman materials, they were estimated to be worth about three thousand Spirit Stones.


    The main highlight was the Storage Bag of the cultivator with the surname Wu, and he was also looking forward to the rumored Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    Considering the cautiousness of the cultivator with the surname Wu, he would surely have ced the Minor Divine Ability Tree in a safe location, and for a fugitive cultivator living on the edge like himself, the safest ce was on his person.


    Upon opening the Storage Bag, Lin Shiming first took out the Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts: the Binding Heavenly Bell, the Profound Spirit Ring, and the golden thread and silver wire. Among the Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, these three were absolutely top-notch.


    Especially the golden thread and silver wire. It was a thinyer of translucent silver threads that, even under sunlight, only emitted a faint silver glow. When activated by spiritual energy, not only would Divine Sense fail to detect it, but even if one did not concentrate fully, it would be nearly invisible to the naked eye.


    It was precisely because of this golden thread and silver wire that Lin Shiming dared not let his four Supreme Grade magic swords and two Spirit Shields leave his side. If not for the system notification, even with his guard up, he would not have survived the second round of attacks from the cultivator with the surname Wu.


    The golden thread and silver wire were four meters in length, and holding it, one could feel a sense of sharpness.


    Lin Shiming exerted a little force, and the silver thread easily embedded into the flesh, with crimson blood oozing out.


    Lin Shiming quickly put it down, his fondness for the gold-threaded silver thread growing even more.


    With the gold-threaded silver thread, Lin Shiming felt a greater sense of confidence.


    Lin Shiming then turned his attention to the Trapping Heaven Bell, which was equally a rare treasure. Upon its release, it had directly trapped the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The Profound Spirit Ring, however, seemed much more ordinary, only providing a Profound Spirit Shield, equivalent to a Supreme Grade magic artifact.


    After inspecting the three magic artifacts, Lin Shiming started to look for the Minor Divine Ability tree. Unfortunately, he found no such tree in the Wu-named cultivator''s Storage Bag but stumbled upon a Jade Bottle.


    The Jade Bottle gleamed with spiritual light, dazzling and extraordinary.


    Lin Shiming opened the stopper of the Pill Bottle, and a tiny golden Elixir Pill appeared inside, followed by a rich wave of Spiritual Energy emanating from the bottle.


    It was indeed a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was overwhelmed with joy. He had not expected that, while failing to find the Minor Divine Ability tree, he would acquire a Foundation Establishment Pill which would be more beneficial in the short-term. Continue your adventure with m|v-l''e -NovelBin


    Although the Lin Family could also refine Foundation Establishment Pills, the main ingredients were limited, and it would be decades before the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Trees bore fruit again!


    Acquiring the Foundation Establishment Pill now meant that Lin Shiming could attempt Foundation Establishment on his own, in his thirties.


    With his heart racing with excitement, Lin Shiming carefully sealed the Jade Bottle with the Foundation Establishment Pill and ced it into his Storage Bag.


    He then continued to examine the remaining treasures of the Wu-named cultivator.


    The Wu-named cultivator was extremely wealthy, even more so than the newly advanced Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Huang Family. The Storage Bag contained more than ten thousand Spirit Stones, with over fifty of them being Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but sigh, "Indeed, fortunees with danger."


    The gains from this adventure were equivalent to nearly twenty years of his family stipend, and that didn''t even include Supreme Grade magic artifacts and Elixirs.


    Besides Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming found over ten bottles of Elixirs, most of them Second Rank Superior Grade Condensing Essence Pills, which had effects superior to those of Green Spirit Pills. A bottle of Condensing Essence Pills was worth at least a thousand Spirit Stones, meaning that the Elixirs ounted for another seven or eight thousand Spirit Stones.


    These Elixirs were clearly meant for the Wu-named cultivator''s attempts at reaching the Foundation Establishment realm, but now they were all Lin Shiming''s for the taking.


    This meant that he wouldn''t have to worry about a shortage of Elixirs for the next several years, and as long as he had enough Honeydew, he could even attempt a Foundation Establishment breakthrough before his family went to the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    In a corner of the Storage Bag, Lin Shiming also discovered a counter disying a few Jade Slips.


    Lin Shiming was highly interested in the Jade Slips, knowing that the Beef Nurturing Pill recipe sold by the Wu-named cultivator was already of great value. The remaining Jade Slips could very well be secrets of the Spirit Beast Sect not shared with outsiders.


    Lin Shiming didn''t hesitate to probe the Jade Slips with his Divine Sense.


    "Beast Taming Basic Truths!" The first Jade Slip immediately piqued his interest.


    Although the Beast Taming Basic Truths was only introductory material for the Spirit Beast Sect, for Lin Shiming, who knew of nothing other than the Blood Covenant method, it was exceedingly precious.


    It contained methods for controlling Demonic Beasts, various Spirit Contracts, ways to nurture Demonic Beasts, and even Secret Techniques for aiding their advancement. In particr, it included a Control Spirit Contract that could even establish contracts with adult Demonic Beasts.

 Chapter 91 Treasure Hunt in Lingnan

    In the small wooden hut, Lin Shiming took a long breath of relief, feeling extremely satisfied and rxed, having now gone through all the Jade Slips.


    Some of these Jade Slips were about spell techniques, while the rest were about beast taming.


    Apart from an introductory true exnation on beast taming, there was also a Spirit Insect list crafted by the Spirit Beast Sect, the Heaven and Earth Demonic Insect List.


    There were also two beast taming elixir forms, one was an elixir that promoted the breeding of Demonic Beasts, the Seduction Demon Pill, and another form that helped Demonic Beasts advance, the Breakthrough Demon Pill.


    For Lin Shiming at this moment, the Seduction Demon Pill was naturally of no use, but the Breakthrough Demon Pill was something he urgently needed.


    The Golden Winged Mantis had already begun to manifest its third pair of wings, which was also the reason for its terrifying speed. Before, Lin Shiming thought that the Golden Winged Mantis was a mutation, but after obtaining the Heaven and Earth Demonic Insect List,


    he just learned that the Golden Winged Mantis possessed the bloodline of the Six-Winged Sky Mantis, ranked eighty-nine on the list.


    Once the six wings are fully formed, it couldpletely break through to the Third Rank and be a Foundation Establishment Stage Demonic Beast.


    By then, even if Lin Shiming''s future opponents were all Foundation Establishment Cultivators, with the Golden Winged Mantis by his side, he would possess formidablebat strength when facing them.


    After organizing all his gains, Lin Shiming took the Red Spirit Fish and headed for Lin Houyuan''s cave dwelling.


    Lin Shiming first sent out a Sound Transmission Talisman, discovering that thetter was in the furthest wooden hut among several small ones.


    And Lin Xianzhi, the Seventh Great-Uncle, and Lin Houyong, the fifth uncle, were both present.


    When Lin Shiming arrived, they were discussing when to take over Lingnan County and who would be assigned to guard it.


    With the family''s current good financial situation, if they wanted to grow, they naturally had to increase the number of family cultivators. And to increase the number of family cultivators, the base number of mortals also had to rise.


    Although Lingnan County didn''t have arge poption, if managed carefully, raising tens of thousands of mortals was not an issue.


    Of course, the bandit den of the Seven Fiends in Lingnan also had to be swept clean; there was an inferior-grade Third Rank Spirit Vein there that could support a Foundation Establishment Cultivator''s cultivation and relieve the pressure on the Spirit Veins of Fangmu Mountain.


    "Uncle Nine, Seventh Great-Uncle, let me go. Both the family estate and Xing County Square Market cannot afford any mishaps right now. Houyong has yet to establish any merit previously, so this would be a good opportunity for him to share the family''s worries and redevelop Lingnan County!" Lin Houyong volunteered with a bow.


    The Seven Fiends of Lingnan were already dead, leaving only a few Qi Cultivators at the Spirit Vein mountain, so naturally, it would be better to take over the location sooner rather thanter.


    "Agreed!" Lin Xianzhi nodded. Lin Houyong had used the family''s Foundation Establishment Pill, but still owed the family a great deal of contribution points. Currently, the family also needed to provide Lin Houyong with Consolidation Pills and Third Rank Magic Artifacts, all of which were advances on his contribution points.


    "As for the Sect, I will have Brother Xie help us argue for the official designation of Lingnan County as family territory!"


    Just then, Lin Shiming''s system notification chimed again:


    "Please participate in the cleansing of Lingnan County, and you shall gain possession of the Wu n cultivator''s cave dwelling!"


    As soon as the system notification sounded, an image of the Minor Divine Ability Tree immediately shed in Lin Shiming''s mind.


    In the memory of the Heavenly Wood Heart of the Wood Demon, the Minor Divine Ability Tree was taken away together with other items, which meant it must be in the Wu n cultivator''s possession. Since it wasn''t in the Storage Bag, it must have already been nted by the Wu n cultivator.


    And as far as he knew, the vaguer the system prompt, the greater the potential rewards.


    Just like the incident at Peach Blossom Valley.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming has just had a breakthrough and needs to stabilize his cultivation. Why don''t we go to Lingnan County together?" Lin Shiming suggested with a wave of his hand.


    However, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan were visibly frowning.


    They were supportive of Lin Shiming''s desire for real-world experience, but at this time, Lin Shiming had already caught the attention of the Li Family. If anything were to happen to him in Lingnan County, they would bepletely helpless in Xing County!


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father, Shiming is aware of his situation, so please let me follow in secret!" Lin Shiming spoke up again.


    Seeing Lin Shiming''s insistence, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan finally nodded in agreement, but they only permitted Lin Shiming to act from the shadows.


    This trip to Lingnan County indeed required some cultivators with considerable strength. Although Lin Shiming could not make a public appearance, he was still capable of handling some matters for Lin Houyong.


    Discover hidden stories at m,v l''e-NovelBin


    Seeing Lin Xianzhi''s consent, Lin Shiming also felt relieved. He then took out the Red Spirit Fish, which were needed by the family for breeding and could add another stream of ie for the n.


    After receiving the Red Spirit Fish, Lin Xianzhi asked Lin Shiming to stay behind alone.


    "Shiming, here is a set of gs for the second-rank supreme-grade defensive array, the Five Spirit Mysterious Bell Formation. You have talismans, but remember, you must protect yourself well before activating the talismans!"


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming was overjoyed to receive the array gs, never expecting his great-uncle to have prepared a set of defensive array gs just for him.


    This set of array gs was priceless to Qi Cultivators. A second-rank peak defensive array could fend off a general Foundation Establishment cultivator for a brief moment, as long as the supply of Spirit Stones was sufficient.


    After leaving Lin Xianzhi''s wooden hut, Lin Shiming crossed through the bamboo forest to enter the marketce controlled by his n in Xing County.


    When he looked back using his Divine Sense to scan the quiet bamboo forest and its several huts, he discovered that apart from the bamboo, there was nothing else under his Divine Sense.


    Lin Shiming first visited his family''s Lin n Trading Alliance, where he sought out Lin Houyuan to purchase the spiritual objects needed for the trip to Lingnan County.


    With nearly twenty thousand Spirit Stones in his storage bag, he was feeling unusually generous.


    He first bought two hundred catties of Spirit Water, prepared for the three Spirit Beasts. There was nock of Demonic Beast meat, as they had just ughtered four Demonic Beasts the previous few days, and there were still many corpses of Demon Serpents. He had also obtained ten bottles of Beast Nurturing Pills from the Second Elder before he left.


    The only thing missing was the Spirit Water that the three Spirit Beasts had been drinking since they were young.


    Besides that, he sold all of his second-rank superior-grade magic artifacts, as well as a few second-rank supreme-grade ones that he no longer needed.


    He kept only four Supreme Grade Spirit Swords, two Supreme Grade Spirit Shields, one Profound Spirit Ring, one Sky-Entrapping Bell, in addition to the Golden Thread Silver Wire, Profound Soul Needle, and the Five Elements Tower.


    All other artifacts were sold, totaling six thousand Spirit Stones.


    This was still selling to the family, whose offer was slightly less than the normal market price. Otherwise, he could have gotten even more Spirit Stones.


    In return, he acquired over a dozen talismans containing second-rank superior-grade spells, plus one Earth Escape Talisman, one Wind Escape Talisman, and one Water Escape Talisman.


    Moreover, Lin Shiming also browsed the entire market, gathering the main and auxiliary ingredients required to make the Demon Core Breaking Pill. Regrettably, there was no trace of the two main ingredients, the Tearful Ginseng and Jade Demon Fruit; he only managed to procure some auxiliary ingredients.


    However, he was not disappointed ¨C the Demon Core Breaking Pill was, after all, a third-rank elixir. If the primary ingredients were so easy to obtain, the cultivator with the surname Wu would probably have already found them for his Demonic Beast''s pill.


    That night, Lin Shiming followed quietly behind the Spirit Boat controlled by Lin Houyong, riding on the Golden Luan Eagle and hastening towards Lingnan County in the evening.


    Lin Houyong didn''t fly the Spirit Boat too swiftly. The group of cultivators numbered ten, which included five cultivators of the ''Hou'' generation in thete stages of Qi Cultivation, and five cultivators of the ''Shi'' generation in the mid stages of Qi Cultivation.


    And these people would all be stationed in the South Nanling Mountain within Lingnan County for several years toe.

 Chapter 92 Clues to the Cave Dwelling

    Lingnan County, Nanling Mountain, this ce is also known as Seven Fiends Mountain.


    True to its name, the entire mountain was situated on the mountain''s shadowy side, shrouded in ck fog, giving off a somewhat grim and eerie vibe.


    Lin Houyong led his team into Nanling Mountain''s territory, and the Spirit Boat was immediately activated at full power.


    As for the ck fog before their eyes, it might intimidate ordinary people and some Loose Cultivators, but it couldn''t stop the Lin Family Cultivators.


    Even before Lin Houyong made a move, the second elder of the Hou generation, Lin Houshou, stepped forward solemnly, releasing several Spirit Arts.


    A Spirit g flew out and in an instant, transformed into a series of rolling mes in the sky, which caused the ck fog to instantly emit squealing noises.


    The Spirit Light flickered and shifted, and much like having x-ray vision, identified the key point of the Mist Formation.


    Another Spirit Art was cast, the mes descended, and the key point was destroyed.


    "No high-level Cultivators?" Lin Houshou hadn''t expected that the Formation would be so easy to break, and that no one was controlling the formation to change the variations of the Spirit Light in its foundation.


    The next moment, the ck fog dissipated greatly, revealing the mountain peaks of Nanling Mountain.


    The sect''s buildings atop the mountain peaks came into view, and several Cultivators hurriedly flew up. These Cultivators also had some tattoos, but they were much smaller and much fainterpared to the Lingnan Seven Fiends.


    Most of these Cultivators were in the early stages of Qi Cultivation, with only a few in the middle stage who appeared quite old, as if they had been in Nanling Mountain for a long time.


    "Which Sect''s Cultivators are causing trouble on our Seven Fiends Mountain?"


    A few Cultivators stared at Lin Houyuan and his party, their hearts filled with trepidation, yet they tried to appear calm.


    The Lingnan Seven Fiends had a notorious reputation in Yunzhou, with countless enemies. Were it not for their Poisonous Dragon Sect Leader''s Foundation Establishment Cultivation Level, Nanling Mountain would have been leveled many times over.


    "Some have started to run! Attack!" Lin Houyuan, facing some junior Qi Cultivators, had no intention of responding, directly unleashing his Third Rank Flying Sword.


    Normally, he might boast about his Foundation Establishment status and not take action against Qi Cultivators, but they were currently on a n extermination mission, so naturally, there was no trace of mercy.


    Almost at the same moment as Lin Houyuan made a move, the other Lin Family Cultivators also summoned their Flying Swords, lighting up the entire sky with radiant Spirit Light.


    A few tattooed Cultivators were shocked, then in the next moment, almost all of them transformed into half-beast forms, scattering in all directions like birds and beasts.


    But even in their half-beast forms, they didn''t make it a hundred meters under the hands of a Foundation Establishment Cultivator before they fell one by one.


    The lead white-haired Cultivator was even grabbed by Lin Houyuan and taken to a secluded room on Nanling Mountain to begin Soul Searching, seeking out the treasures of the Lingnan Cultivators.


    The Soul Searching Technique was a secret art that only Foundation Establishment Cultivators could master, and it was a reason why murder for treasure was somon in the Cultivation World. After all, even if you possessed treasures and said nothing, as long as there was a gap of one major realm, they could be extracted with a Soul Search.


    And yet, the drawback of the Soul Searching Technique was also obvious¡ªit had side effects. After being soul searched, the victim would at best suffer great damage to their Divine Sense or at worst be an imbecile.


    Only Sect Cultivators, with the help of their seniors, could seal their Divine Sense to prevent Soul Searching by other Cultivators.


    While Lin Houyuan was Soul Searching, the Lin Family members also dispersed, integrating the resources of Nanling Mountain.


    Meanwhile, unnoticed by all, Lin Shiming came from a corner to Lin Houyuan''s room.


    "Uncle Five!" Lin Shiming greeted respectfully.


    "Shiming, take a seat!" Lin Houyuan smiled faintly, showing none of the airs of a senior.


    "Speak, what brings you to Nanling Mountain? Just now, I used the Soul Searching Technique on the main manager under the Seven Fiends''mand!" Lin Houyong said with an eager expression as he saw Lin Shiming sit down, and he couldn''t help but chuckle as he continued.


    "Uncle Wu must see through my little ruse, I do indeed have something to ask!" Lin Shiming replied, realizing that his uncle already knew his purpose.


    But for him, knowledge was not necessarily a bad thing, and he indeed needed Lin Houyong''s help.


    This was also one of the advantages of being in a family; your personal opportunities, unless they are foundational resources like Spirit Fruit trees or Spirit Veins, the family generally wouldn''t interfere. On the contrary, when you need help, you can confidently seek the support of your family.


    "I would like to understand the rtionship between the Wu-named cultivator and the Lingnan Seven Fiends, and preferably his cave residence as well."


    Upon hearing this, Lin Houyong frowned slightly and pondered for a moment before he spoke:


    "It''s quite peculiar, this Wu-named cultivator actually found the Lingnan Seven Fiends half a year ago, and has since refined arge number of Beast Taming Pills for them. He even joined the Seven Fiends a few days ago, bing the Eighth Sha! But there are no clues about the location of his cave residence."


    Lin Shiming felt somewhat disappointed upon hearing this news, but then he thought that if he had a treasure like the Minor Divine Ability tree, he wouldn''t choose to ce his cave residence on Nanling Mountain either; if the Seven Fiends were to harbor evil intentions, no matter how great the Wu-named cultivator''s abilities were, he wouldn''t have a chance of surviving.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to abandon the idea of searching Nanling Mountain. When he thought of the system''s hint, his head ached all over again¡ªit was too broad a piece of information, like when he was first searching for the peach tree.


    Without any leads, Lin Shiming could only give up and, when the time came, search the entire Nanling County.


    Luckily, there was no time limit to the period he had told his family he would be training, which meant he could stay in Nanling County indefinitely.


    Putting aside his thoughts, Lin Shiming also took the opportunity to congratte Lin Houyong.


    "Thank you, Uncle Wu, for elucidating that for me, and congrattions on taking Nanling Mountain for the family, securing another Third Rank Spirit Vein territory, as well as the entire domain of Nanling County."


    "Ha ha, I cannot take all the credit for that achievement; your father and Seventh Great-Uncle contributed the most!" Lin Houyong quickly waved his hand, and then with a lift of his eyebrows, heughed and continued:


    "Perhaps my contributions might not evenpare to yours!"


    After hearing this, Lin Shiming repeatedly waved his hand, well aware of the extent of his actual contributions. Of course, he also understood that Lin Houyong was referring to his actions of killing three of the Five Fiends and aiding Lin Houyuan in ying the Fiend Leader, the Poisonous Dragon.


    "However, taking down Nanling County will indeed bring significant financial improvements for the family; moreover, the number of mortals in the family can now grow on arge scale..."


    Lin Houyong continued to recount the information he had obtained through Soul Searching Technique.


    When the Lingnan Seven Fiends departed, they took arge number of subordinates and nearly all of the Spirit Stone wealth with them, so there weren''t many Spirit Stones left in Nanling County. Additionally, the Lingnan Seven Fiends were an upstart faction formed by Loose Cultivators,cking any heritage in pill cultivation or nt cultivation.


    In the entire Third Rank Spirit Vein, they had nted only ordinary Spirit Rice, with the minor Spirit Flowers and Spirit Grasses having been plundered.


    The only item of great value was the Sha Pattern heritage, originating from an ancient cultivator''s cave residence.


    But when taken over by the Lin Family, Nanling Mountain could at least amodate two new Spirit nt gardens, and with the original four to five thousand mortals of Nanling County, as long as the family relocates ten to twenty thousand more mortals and assimtes them, the family would be able to produce several Immortal Cultivation seeds every ten years.


    Most importantly, Nanling County is well-located, close to Qingzhou, which would also facilitatemerce for the Lin Family.


    The Li Family may control thergest market in Yunzhou, Qingyun Market, but they cannot control the Lin Family''smerce in Qingzhou.


    Besidesmerce, there''s a small area in Nanling County close to the Qingyun Mountain range. Although it''s only the periphery, it could still allow the Lin Family''s Demon Hunting Team to enter for training. For cultivators, cultivation level is certainly important, butbat skills are equally indispensable.


    And upon hearing Lin Houyong mention the periphery of the Qingyun Mountain range, Lin Shiming suddenly recalled the Entry Guide to Beast Taming as well as the Wu-named cultivator.


    Excitement surged within him once more.


    If he was not mistaken, the Wu-named cultivator''s cave residence must be located in Nanling County, near the Qingyun Mountain range.


    After all, the Spirit Beast Sect excelled at dealing with Demonic Beasts, and it was only in such a Demonic Beast mountain range that the Wu-named cultivator could take full advantage of his strengths.

 Chapter 93: Chapter 93 Mines and Formations

    Qingyun Mountain Range, Qingshi Ridge.


    This is the ce in Lingnan County that is closest to the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    Unlike other areas near the mountain range, various types of strange stones crisscross within the mountains here. From a distance, if not for the few low-lying nts, one would definitely think this was a mountain made entirely of stone.


    A sword light descended from the sky andnded on a huge boulder that rose a hundred meters above the surface.


    The cultivator was none other than Lin Shiming, who had traveled all the way from Nanling Mountain. He held a Jade Slip in his hands, asionally gazing into the distance.


    His Divine Sense continuously swept out and finally, he ascertained that he had reached the destination of his journey.


    Qingshi Ridge.


    If one had not been to Qingshi Ridge before, they probably wouldn''t believe that it also extended to the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    So many stones meant that there were few Demonic Beasts in this area, and almost no cultivators came here for adventure.


    Even the map in the Jade Slip Lin Shiming held was recorded by a cultivator ten years ago.


    Having reached the ce, Lin Shiming did not hesitate any longer. He began to search inch by inch around Qingshi Ridge, the area he believed to be the most likely spot.


    However, to his disappointment, he found absolutely nothing even after half a day.


    Then he thought of the Golden Winged Mantis. It was worth noting that the Golden Wing, even separated by an Inheritance Stone in Peach Blossom Valley, had found Second Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine.


    True to expectations, the Golden Winged Mantis extended its triangr golden head forward, conveying an urgent emotional fluctuation to Lin Shiming.


    Soon after, with several squeaks and the fluttering of its four golden wings, the Golden Winged Mantis turned into a streak of golden light and headed towards a section of rubble.


    About the time it takes half an incense stick to burn, the Golden Winged Mantisnded under an ordinary tea tree.


    The tea tree still had white flowers blooming, but the more Lin Shiming looked at it, the more ordinary it seemed.


    There were virtually no fluctuations of Spiritual Energy in the surroundings. It was just an ordinary tea tree in an ordinary location through and through.


    Feeling the urgent emotional fluctuations from the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but doubt it. After all, a mantis is still a mantis, and not a Spirit Mouse or Spirit Dog.


    However, what shocked him to the point of speechlessness was that the Golden Winged Mantis actually began to dig into the earth with its two scythe-like forelegs.


    And Lin Shiming instantly had a realization¡ªbeneath the ground!


    Although he had searched all over Qingshi Ridge, he had not searched beneath Qingshi Ridge.


    And clearly, the Golden Winged Mantis was also hinting at something underground.


    Suppressing his excitement, Lin Shiming took out an Earth Escape Talisman. Then, enveloping the Golden Winged Mantis and himself in the yellow Escape Light, they both submerged into the ground.


    Even underground, the area was still filled with stones, and several times Lin Shiming considered turning back.


    Finally, at about a hundred meters deep, Lin Shiming felt his Divine Sense being heavilypressed, and the Golden Winged Mantis grew increasingly agitated. Just when he thought he was about to find a grotto-heaven...


    The Golden Winged Mantis unexpectedly started to dig on its own, and soon after, a golden stone fell out from a piece of rock.


    "Golden yellow in color, with a texture like gold, is this Second Rank Supreme Grade spirit material, Golden Iron Stone?"


    Lin Shiming stared at the stone, dumbfounded.


    He was somewhat incredulous until after he had picked up the stone, and a stream of sharp Earth Attribute energies came forth, Lin Shiming finally confirmed it.


    Unable to contain the excitement in his heart, Lin Shiming hastily struck other rocks and soon discovered another piece of Golden Iron Stone.


    Such Golden Iron Stones could sell for at least a hundred or two hundred Spirit Stones each in the market.


    The ground before him was clearly a Golden Iron Stone mine. With this Spirit Stone mine, the so-called financial crisis of the Lin Family no longer existed.


    And he himself would also be able to obtain a considerable share.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming also began to understand why the Wu-named cultivator wanted to interact with the Seven Fiends, probably hoping to rece the Poisonous Dragon after his Foundation Establishment and turn the influence of the Seven Fiends of Lingnan into his private mining team.


    Having secured the Golden Iron Stone mine, Lin Shiming was no longer in a hurry.


    He headed towards the ce where his Divine Sense had vanished.


    By now, he was already five to six hundred meters underground, and the Earth Escape Talisman was under tremendous pressure.


    Finally, he arrived at the ce where his Divine Sense had disappeared: arge hall.


    A vast underground za stretched tens of meters wide, and it was here that Lin Shiming finally felt the presence of a Spirit Istion Formation.


    This Spirit Istion Formation was surprisingly not much inferior to that of the old n leader; in other words, it was at least a Third Rank Spirit Istion Formation.


    This confirmed, beyond a doubt, the cave dwelling of the Wu-named cultivator.


    Unfortunately, Lin Shiming had little understanding of formations and could not, like Lin Houshou, find the formation eye in a few breaths and break the formation.


    However, the good news was that no one was controlling the cave dwelling, so even if it took grinding down his magical power, he would be able to wear down the formation.


    Lin Shiming released the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Luan Eagle, and to prevent the formation from having offensive capabilities, he took out the Defensive Array given by the old n leader, Lin Xianzhi, and began to set it up on the spot.


    Below the Spirit Istion Formation were attack and defense formations.


    With such preparations, he still felt somewhat uneasy, holding the sky-confining bell in one hand and the golden-threaded silver fment magic artifact in the other.


    Subsequently, the three beasts and one manunched an attack on the formation.


    The Spirit Istion Formation on the outermostyer trembled violently with Lin Shiming''s attacks, and the surrounding Spirit Light Shield began to fluctuate intensely.


    Countless streams of Spirit Light surged within the Spirit Shield like a sea, constantly replenishing it. No cracks appeared, even as the Golden Winged Mantis''s scythes created tears that were soon submerged by the surging Spirit Light and restored.


    And so, Lin Shiming and the three Demonic Beasts attacked underground for a full three days.


    The three Spirit Beasts even ate Spirit Food and Beast Nurturing Pills three times, until finally, with a crisp sound of shattering ss,


    The Spirit Shield broke.


    And it was at that moment, suddenly, a golden and an earthy yellow breath of light shot towards Lin Shiming.


    However, a huge mysterious bell appeared in front of Lin Shiming. It was the Five Spirit Mysterious Bell Formation.


    The breath of Spirit Light disappeared without a trace, and it was only then that Lin Shiming saw a dual-headed lizard appear where the formation had broken, seemingly out of nowhere.


    The lizard clearly had one golden and one earthy head, with both heads capable of spewing breath.


    Lin Shiming felt a shudder of fear. It was lucky he had been cautious; otherwise, he might have fallen into the trap left by the dead Wu-named cultivator¡ªthe Demonic Beast left behind was naturally intended to be his legacy.


    Lin Shiming was extremely interested in this dual-headed lizard, not only because of its gold and earth attributes but also its ability to breathe elemental attacks.


    After ordering the Golden Winged Mantis not to act rashly, he had the Red-haired Demon Monkey randomly smash around.


    Eventually, he used the sky-confining bell to directly cover thetter, trapping it inside.


    Lin Shiming wanted to use the newly mastered Spirit Control Technique on the dual-headed Dragon Lizard, but to his disappointment, it wasn''t sessful. This was a wild Demonic Beast which had already been controlled by the Wu-named cultivator.


    A forcible master-servant contract could not be established again.


    In the end, regretfully, he had to kill the dual-headed lizard.


    And it was then, under the immense pressure of the cave dwelling, that Lin Shiming finally saw a low and small tree that he had been longing for.


    The small tree was bathed in treasured light, with rich Spiritual Energy, and the Spirit Patterns on the tree were lifelike,


    It was indeed the Minor Divine Ability tree!

 Chapter 94: Chapter 94 Favoring the Worthy Without Avoiding Relatives

    The Minor Divine Ability Tree was nted in a stone pool approximately three feet in diameter, which contained no water but sparse mud instead.


    However, mysteriously, the mud did not share the same extraordinary splendor as that of the radiance shining from the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    The mud remained in ck and yellow in color, but from within the sparse soil emanated an extremely thick aura of Earth Attribute Spiritual Energy.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but walk forward; he had been focusing solely on the Minor Divine Ability Tree,pletely forgetting about the soil and the stone pool.


    Now, he could see that this was anything but ordinary soil¡ªit was all Third Rank Spirit Soil.


    And as the Array broke, the hall began to emit the Spiritual Energy of a Third Rank Earth Attribute Spirit Vein.


    Everything became clear; the Wu-named cultivator indeed found a good location. No wonder he infiltrated the Seven Fiends of Lingnan; this Third Rank Earth Attribute Spirit Vein was the same as the ones within the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    It was most suitable for the growth of the Minor Divine Ability Tree, and there was so much Third Rank Spirit Soil¡ªa full stone pool of it, much more than in the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    However, he estimated that the Minor Divine Ability Tree must have certain requirements for the Spirit Soil, for it had taken arge amount of Spirit Soil with it when it was taken from the Spirit Beast Sect.


    Lin Shiming''s gaze joyfully returned to the Divine Ability Tree.


    Rich treasures in radiance swirled around it as if it contained the miracle of heaven and earth within it¡ªstunningly beautiful.


    Simply standing beside it, one could feel as if the sound of the Dao was echoing around.


    The Minor Divine Ability Tree would only reach about three feet in height in its lifetime, making it exceptionally shortpared to other Spirit Trees.


    But it would take a full two hundred years to mature.


    The essence of two hundred years'' worth of Spiritual Energy would concentrate in a single fruit, and once the fruit ripened, the tree would wither.


    Just imagine, a single Minor Divine Ability fruit could allow a Purple Mansion cultivator toprehend an additional Minor Divine Ability¡ªundoubtedly elevating their level on the Purple Mansion path.


    Even among Sect Purple Mansion cultivators, not everyone couldprehend a Minor Divine Ability.


    Based on its current height, the Minor Divine Ability Tree appeared to be only sixty years old, which meant it required another one hundred and forty years to mature, which somewhat disappointed Lin Shiming.


    But to possess such a treasure was already as fortuitous as having clouds of luck. If it were about to mature, its value would be much greater, and the likelihood of him being able to obtain it would be even slimmer.


    Lin Shiming was also a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit nt Master at this moment; he hesitated over whether to transnt the Minor Divine Ability Tree. Transnting it would surely harm the tree, but to leave it here without a Third Rank Spirit Shielding Array was also risky.


    Being near the Qingyun Mountain Range, who knew how many Demonic Beasts woulde, and even worse were the cultivators that might arrive.


    If word got out, those seeking trouble with the Lin Family wouldn''t just be Foundation Establishment families and the Purple Mansion Family; undoubtedly, the Qingxuan Sect and Spirit Beast Sect would be among them.


    At this thought, Lin Shiming made up his mind to put the Minor Divine Ability Tree into a Jade Box and take it with him.


    For fear of the night bringing more problems, Lin Shiming did not hesitate to use the highest grade Nurturing Spirit Liquidbined with his own Wood Attribute force from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    However, to his chagrin, he discovered that neither his Wood Attribute Spiritual Power nor the Nurturing Spirit Liquid had the slightest effect.


    At that moment, he could only use brute force like a Loose Cultivator, to move the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    Lin Shiming used his Flying Sword to lift both the Minor Divine Ability Tree and the Spirit Soil, then took out a Jade Box and cast several Spirit Arts.


    He ced the Minor Divine Ability Tree into the Jade Box, only to see the Jade Box''s material start to crack, clearly unable to withstand the overwhelming Spiritual Energy. Lin Shiming had to wrap it in another Jade Box to prevent excessive loss of the tree''s Spiritual Energy.


    Once the Divine Ability Tree was secured, Lin Shiming finally let out a sigh of relief.


    Only then did he have the leisure to examine the hall, which spanned a hundred feet in all directions. Aside from the stone pool in the center that held the Divine Ability Tree, the rest of the space appeared quite empty, furnished with just a few stone tables and a meditation cushion.


    At the far end of the hall, there were several stone chambers.


    Lin Shiming entered the first chamber and immediately noticed dozens of unprocessed Golden Iron Stones ced inside.


    The second and third stone chambers, one being the practice chamber and the other the bedroom, were both exceptionally simple and devoid of anything worth noting, quelling any thoughts Lin Shiming might have had of finding more treasures.


    After checking everything, Lin Shiming took out a defensive array, activated it, and ced it in the stone hall to minimize the leakage of spiritual energy.


    He then once again used an Earth Escape Talisman, heading toward the ground.


    After scanning the surroundings and seeing nothing unusual, Lin Shiming released the Golden Luan Eagle to keep watch and, without looking back, headed toward Fangmu Mountain.


    ...


    On Fangmu Mountain, the lotus flowers in the Spirit Pool were blooming as splendidly as ever.


    Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan were discussing Dao over tea in the pavilion.


    After the battle in Xing County Square Market, Lin Houyuan recognized his numerous shorings and, upon returning, repeatedly practiced and frequently sought advice from Lin Xianzhi.


    As Lin Xianzhi was at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, his cultivation experience was extremely precious to Lin Houyuan.


    However, in the next moment,


    "Hou Yuan, what do you think of Shiming?" Lin Xianzhi asked suddenly, changing the subject after taking a sip of Spiritual Tea.


    This caught Lin Houyuan by surprise, prompting him to inquire,


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, what do you mean?"


    "What do you think about him bing the Family Head?" asked Lin Xianzhi out of the blue.


    "This... although Shiming is talented, he is still inexperienced and in need of further tempering. It would be better to let Hou Shou take the position," Lin Houyuan answered hesitantly.


    Even though he was well aware of Seventh Great-Uncle''s intentions and truly hoped for Lin Shiming to seed, the twenty-five-year-old Lin Shiming still seemed too young to him.


    "Are you still regretting what happened with the water matter? Remember, in choosing the worthy, do not avoid your rtives. Since Shiming is capable, why not let him try? Whether it''s the auction or the matter of the Huang Family''s Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, he has shown a vision that is even longer-term than yours or mine," Lin Xianzhi praised and replied.


    Just then, a streak of Spirit Light appeared andnded in Lin Xianzhi''s hand.


    After giving it a nce, Lin Xianzhi smiled and said,


    "Speaking of Shiming, he''s just arrived."


    Hearing this, Lin Houyuan also showed a puzzled expression. When Lin Shiming applied to go to Lingnan County, he had said that the time was not fixed and that he wanted to temper himself.


    Less than a half month had passed, and he was already done tempering himself?


    Lin Xianzhi seemed to have an inkling and, with a wave of his hand, sent out a Spirit Message.


    It wasn''t long before Lin Shiming arrived at the pavilion.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father!" Lin Shiming greeted the two elders respectfully.


    Then, with an excited expression, he said,


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father, I''ve discovered a vein of Golden Iron Stone in Lingnan County!"


    Upon hearing this, both men immediately stood up from their tea, faces full of shock.


    "Are you certain it''s a vein of Golden Iron Stone?" they both asked with a tremor in their voices.


    Although the Lin Family was already doing much better among the Foundation Establishment families, the family''s finances were a huge concern. The Li Family was targeting them in Qingyun Square Market, and assassinations were carried out against the Lin Family''s Demon Hunting Team in the Qingyun Mountain range.


    As a result, the family had to raise their wages considerably, but their ie had decreased significantly.


    Even with the recent ie from Xing County Square Market and the Spirit Fish, the family''s development was still hampered by the scarcity of Spirit Stones. To think, the Lin Family''s Immortal Assembly for the Shi generation was fast approaching eighty members.


    Faced with the elders'' bewilderment, Lin Shiming promptly took out a palm-sized piece of Golden Iron Stone and showed it to the two elders for inspection.

 Chapter 95 What Do You Think of the Family Head?

    ```


    In the pavilion, Lin Xianzhi held the Golden Iron Stone and, after examining it for a while, could no longer hide his joy.


    He then handed the Golden Iron Stone to Lin Houyuan for inspection.


    "Shiming, you''ve done very well. You''ve made another great contribution to our family."


    "Have you notified your Fifth Uncle?" Lin Xianzhi suddenly frowned, seeming to think of something, and then asked Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming also hastily waved his hands and respectfully said:


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming was somewhat impatient upon discovering the vein and has not yet informed Fifth Uncle."


    "Very good, the Qingxuan Sect has already sent people to Lingnan County, and the Li Family has interfered, tripling the tribute that our family is supposed to offer to the court!"


    "If this news is discovered even the tiniest bit, I''m afraid the tribute will be manipted by them again!"


    After Lin Xianzhi had spoken, all three of them simultaneously harbored deep resentment towards the Li Family''s actions.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming has made another discovery!" Lin Shiming spoke again, this time with an even more solemn expression.


    This made Lin Xianzhi''s brows tighten, and with another wave of the array g, he further reinforced the Spirit Istion Formation around Fangmu Mountain''s Qinglian Pool.


    In fact, the formation around the Qinglian Pool itself was already extremely tight. Lin Xianzhi seldom reinforced it, but now he realized that eight out of the recent ten times had been because of Lin Shiming.


    Once the Spirit Istion Formation was reinforced, Lin Houyuan next to him looked a bit peculiar, wondering why they hadn''t been so careful with the Golden Iron Stone just now.


    Could there be something even more precious than a Second Rank Supreme Grade Golden Iron Stone vein?


    However, in the next moment, when Lin Shiming took out a Jade Box, a radiant light shone through it.


    The two were as if struck by thunder, even more stunned.


    And after looking at it for a moment, Lin Xianzhi suddenly took out array gs from his bosom and sessively issued ten true gs, activating ten Spiritual Powers.


    He reinforced the Spirit Istion Formation by ten moreyers and even activated Fangmu Mountain''s Defensive Array.


    "Could this be the Minor Divine Ability Tree?" It was Lin Houyuan, Shiming''s father, who first swallowed hard and broke the silence.


    "Yes." As Lin Xianzhi spoke, he also took out a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Jade to fashion a new Jade Box.


    He reced the Jade Box to stop the brilliant light from leaking out.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father, this was obtained from a Cultivator named Wu''s cave dwelling, and no second person knows of it," Lin Shiming exined, seeing the cautious look in both their eyes.


    "It''s just a pity that the treasure tree is only sixty years old!"


    "There''s no need to pity, Shiming. As long as I, Lin Xianzhi, am here for one day, no one can take the Minor Divine Ability Fruit from your tree!" Lin Xianzhi stated emphatically.


    "You shall cultivate the tree in your cave dwelling. I will soon reinforce the Formation in your dwelling and set up a Third Rank Superior Grade Defensive and Istion Formation!"


    A series of remarks by Lin Xianzhi instantly warmed Lin Shiming''s initially nervous heart.


    On the way, he actually wondered whether to tell about the Minor Divine Ability Tree, to offer it to Seventh Great-Uncle for the Purple Mansion, which could also enhance the family''s heritage.


    But he also thought about keeping it for himself, knowing it could grant an additional Minor Divine Ability.


    Additionally, the Minor Divine Ability Tree could only be nted on Fangmu Mountain and could not be concealed from Lin Xianzhi.


    But what he did not expect was that his worries were unnecessary¡ªLin Xianzhi had directly promised that the Minor Divine Ability Fruits belonged to him.


    You must know, Lin Xianzhi is currently at theter stages of Foundation Establishment, definitely going to reach the Purple Mansion before him, a Cultivator still in the Qi Cultivation Stage.


    And would be able to use it first, which, by reason, should be the biggest help to the family.


    "Hou Yuan, Shiming, this matter must not be mentioned to any third party!" Lin Xianzhi finally cautioned once again. If news of the Minor Divine Ability Tree were to leak,


    it wouldn''t just be the death of one or two people, the whole Lin Family would be doomed!


    "Hou Yuan, this time it will be you who makes the trip. Take the Array te for the Third Grade Spirit Istion Formation, find Hou Shou,y down the Formation, and let Yu Zheng start dispatching Cultivators. Just use the relocation of mortals as a pretext, then secretly start mining!"


    ```


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Houyuanplied and promptly requested to depart.


    Although the Minor Divine Ability Tree was more important and more valuable,


    the Second Rank Supreme Grade Golden Iron Stone vein was not to be underestimated.


    With the right configuration, it could dominate the market of a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact.


    Especially after learning that Lin Shiming had only set up a Second Rank Formation, and it was a Third Rank Spirit Vein, he felt even more anxious and hurried over without stopping.


    At the scene, only Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi were left.


    "Besides, Shiming, you don''t need to go. During these days, I will guide you in refining your Spiritual Power, as you need to prepare for your Foundation Establishment!"


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle." Lin Shiming agreed without much thought, as his purpose for going to Lingnan had been achieved.


    Even if he was asked to go, he did not have matters to attend to there.


    Instead, at Fangmu Mountain, he could start refining his Spiritual Power and prepare for Foundation Establishment.


    Now that Lin Xianzhi was going to teach him, he naturally felt even more delighted.


    "Also, what do you think about bing the Family Head?"


    With another word from Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming was shocked, his face a picture of disbelief.


    "You need not be too surprised, nor worry that bing the Family Head will affect your cultivation!" Seeing Lin Shiming''s shocked silence, Lin Xianzhi spoke again.


    "Cultivators in Immortal Cultivation put family first. Half is to support the family to repave their debt, and the other half to take the family into one''s service. Your talent, intelligence, and fortune are all of superior quality. Bing the ultimate ruler of the family, you will go farther."


    After finishing, Lin Xianzhi stared at Lin Houyuan and remained silent.


    The words wereid out, it was up to Lin Shiming to decide.


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming is willing to give it a try!" Lin Shiming finally nodded in agreement.


    He had not hesitated just now; he was simply astounded.


    Logically, given his age, it was indeed quite early to be the Family Head.


    His father was the present Family Head, and he had some understanding of the position.


    The benefits of being the Family Head were enormous. For instance, with regard to cultivation resources, after bing the Family Head, he would be the family''s foremost cultivation priority. There would be no more worries about Spirit Stones and Spirit Water, and he could utilize the family''s full resources to aid in his cultivation.


    Just as Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan were doing now.


    Moreover, in terms of family affairs, as long as responsibilities were properly delegated, he would only need to make strategic decisions, which would not greatly impact his cultivation.


    After all, there were other Elders below him.


    ¡­


    Lin Shiming returned to his own cave dwelling, his shocked heart gradually calming down, but a higher position also signified greater responsibility, and required greater strength.


    He did not have time to rest at this moment.


    First, he nted the Minor Divine Ability Tree next to the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree without any dy.


    Once the precious tree was nted, Lin Shiming felt most of the Spiritual Energy being drawn towards him, which immediately filled him with joy.


    The Spiritual Energy was denser, which incidentally helped his cultivation as well.


    Then, Lin Shiming nted the seeds of the Awakening Spirit Flower.


    Next, he channeled the Spiritual Power of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra into the Heavenly Spirit Fruit, Awakening Spirit Flower, and other Spirit nts, catalyzing each of them.


    Finally, he dealt with the Spirit Bees, fed three Spirit Beasts, and then returned to the stone bed to quietly contemte the future of the family.


    Because, in his view, the family needed reform! Explore stories on m,v l''e-NovelBin

 Chapter 96: Chapter 96 Here are the Five Items

    Earth Fire Hall, Pill Pavilion.


    Lin Shiming had once againe to the Earth Fire Hall, where the hall seemed even more fiery red, and one could feel the scorching hot waves from afar.


    The Formation Artifact Manual had brought the Lin Family Third Rank elixirs and Third Rank magic artifacts, but it also made the Earth Fire Hall even more vtile, with the rising ground fire burning incessantly.


    A few of the Shiming generation apprentices who had previously controlled the furnaces were now practicing alchemy in the artifact refining chamber, each disying considerable progress.


    Only a few neers were left, either tending to the furnace or memorizing elixir forms.


    Stay connected via m-v l|e''-NovelBin


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming arrive, they hurriedly called out "Seventh Brother."


    "Where is Second Granduncle?" Lin Shiming asked, not seeing any sign of Lin Yuqi and feeling an inexplicable worry in the bottom of his heart.


    "Second Granduncle is helping Sister Thirty-One with alchemy; she''s about to break through to an intermediate-grade Second Rank alchemist!" The teenagers, obviously in extreme admiration of their so-called Sister Thirty-One, announced.


    Lin Shiming also remembered that nine years had passed, and the once timid girl was now eighteen, about to break through to an intermediate-grade Second Rank alchemist.


    It was said that her cultivation level had also reached the sixthyer of Qi Cultivation.


    The speed of this cultivator with dual spirit roots and her talent for alchemy made even Lin Shiming quite envious.


    Lin Shiming didn''t have to wait too long; after all, an intermediate-grade Second Rank elixir didn''t take as long to concoct as a Third Rank elixir, which could take days or even up to eight months.


    When the room opened, Lin Shitao stepped out supporting Lin Yuqi, both of them showing joy on their faces, a clear sign that the pill was sessfully concocted.


    Indeed, upon seeing Lin Shiming, Lin Shitao took out a pill bottle for him to see, containing the Beast Nurturing Pill.


    She was all smiles, with her willow-shaped eyebrows curved like crescent moons, resembling a blossoming peach flower.


    The Beast Nurturing Pill that Lin Shiming had mentioned to her, she had aplished in six years.


    Lin Shiming was also very happy, but Lin Yuqi by his side had grown even more elderly, his wrinkles and white hair creeping over him at an unknown time; it seemed as if the immortal bearing of a cultivator was bing distant in him.


    Lin Shiming was puzzled, for as far as he knew, Lin Yuqi should be 96 years old today, four years younger than Great Elder Lin Yuqing.


    Cultivators in the Qi Cultivation Stage should live without ailments and enjoy a lifespan of 120 years.


    "Second Granduncle, you are the only Third Rank alchemist in our family, you must take care of your health!" Lin Shiming also stepped forward to support him, his words filled with worry.


    Lin Yuqi tried to straighten his body, as if to prove he wasn''t as Lin Shiming thought.


    "It''s nothing, I''m quite robust. In a few months, once I start up the furnace again, I''ll concoct a good elixir for you, the Family Head, to celebrate!"


    "Second Granduncle, that''s not urgent, you should pay more attention to your health," Lin Shiming shook his head, knowing full well that what Lin Yuqi was talking about was the concoction of the Foundation Establishment Pill, which the family had promised him.


    The family also had onest Heavenly Spirit Fruit.


    But judging by Lin Yuqi''s appearance, a Second Rank alchemist making a Third Rank elixir was bound to be exhausting, taking a toll on his lifespan. Besides, Lin Shiming already had a Foundation Establishment Pill, so he was in no hurry.


    "No matter, rest assured, the family is getting better and better. I''m still waiting to see Shitao break through to be a Third Rank alchemist and Shijie be a Foundation Establishment Cultivator!" Lin Yuqi said carefreely.


    Then, as if remembering something, he dismissed the apprentices who were tending to the furnace and the cultivators memorizing forms, and with the formation activated, he asked Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, do you have a new elixir form to concoct? I see you''re looking for the Demonic Cloud Fruit."


    "Second Granduncle, you really can''t hide anything from you!"


    "There''s a Demon Core Pill form. My Mantis has already reached the peak of the Second Rank Demonic Beast, might as well give it a try!" Lin Shiming replied. A couple of days ago, he had issued a task in the family''s Treasure Pavilion to search for the main ingredient of the Demon Core Pill, and it seemed that Lin Yuqi had guessed it.


    "Good, the Lin Family is finally about to witness the emergence of a Third Rank Spirit Beast. For that alone, I''ll make sure to concoct the Demon Core Pill for you, with this old body of mine!" Lin Yuqi''s eyes once again gleamed with vigor, and then he stared at Lin Shiming.


    At this moment, he seemed somewhat vigorous again.


    Lin Shiming could not withstand Lin Yuqi''s enthusiasm, and in the end, handed over the elixir form to him.


    Lin Yuqi also gave Lin Shiming about ten more bottles of Beast Nurturing Pills.


    The three of them spent some time in the Pill Pavilion, drinking Spiritual Tea and discussing the family''s recent affairs before Lin Shiming left.


    However, what surprised Lin Shiming was that Lin Shitao unexpectedly caught up with him at the entrance of the Earth Fire Hall:


    "Seventh Brother, do you know why Big Brother doesn''t want to refine pills?"


    ```


    "There are thousands of paths within the Great Dao; each person chooses their own. Pursue the Immortal Path with all your heart, big brother!" Lin Shiming recalled Lin Shijie''s response back in Qingxuan City, and indeed, it was just as now, with his second brother having honed his cultivation and preparing for a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment.


    Four more years, and the family will once again travel to Qingxuan City to auction Foundation Establishment Pills.


    "Oh!" The little girl walked back with a disappointed face; Lin Shiming felt bemused but didn''t think much of it.


    Within the Earth Fire Hall, Lin Shiming then visited the Artifact Refining Chamber.


    The Artifact Refining Chamber was in another direction from the Pill Pavilion. When Lin Shiming arrived, he immediately saw Lin Shizhong, the son of the old town chief of Peach Blossom Town. After many years, he too had be a robust young man with sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes.


    "Seventh brother!" Lin Shizhong was grateful toward Lin Shiming, so uponying eyes on him, he immediately set aside what he was doing and came over.


    "Not bad, the peak of the fourthyer of Qi Cultivation Stage already!" Lin Shiming felt Lin Shizhong''s cultivation level and couldn''t help but praise him. With a Third Spirit Root and not even eighteen, reaching the fourthyer was quite good.


    "Seventh brother must find my progressughable. However, I will continue to work hard," said Lin Shizhong with a chuckle, hisplexion somewhat darkened, possibly from frequently refining artifacts.


    "Is Fourth Grandpa here?" asked Lin Shiming.


    "Fourth Grandpa is resting in the Artifact Refining Chamber, having justpleted a Supreme Grade magic artifact," Lin Shizhong informed Lin Shiming.


    "Maybe Shizhong could pass on a message for Seventh Brother."


    "No need? I will wait here for Fourth Grandpa," Lin Shiming gestured with his hand.


    What Lin Shizhong referred to as a Supreme Grade artifact was likely a Third Rank artifact in Lin Shiming''s opinion, so he didn''t immediately disturb him and simply waited in the refining hall.


    The Lin Family now had three Foundation Establishment cultivators and was also nning to sell Third Rank artifacts at Xing County Square Market, hence the pressure on Lin Yutie was substantial.


    Approximately three hourster, the doors of Lin Yutie''s Artifact Refining Chamber opened and he strode out.


    Indeed, just as Lin Shiming had imagined, Lin Yutie also looked somewhat aged, an appearance that even spiritual energy seemed unable to rejuvenate.


    But his vitality appeared ruddy, faring much better than Second Elder Lin Yuqi.


    "Fourth Grandpa!" Lin Shiming greeted him respectfully.


    "Family Head!" Lin Yutie greeted him back with a smile.


    This made Lin Shiming feel awkward, and he quickly responded.


    "Fourth Grandpa, please call me Shiming."


    "Haha, young Family Head should get used to it!" Lin Yutie teased.


    "Fourth Grandpa, I''vee to ask for your help in crafting a few magic artifacts!" Lin Shiming saw Lin Yutie''s response and decided not to insist, as each could address each other as they liked, and he didn''t forget the purpose of his visit, taking out several demonic beast materials.


    These were the materials left from ying the martial cultivator: the Iron Fist of a ck giant ape, the skin and ws of a color-changing lizard, the wings of a dark-night bat, the tail of a Thunder Spirit Leopard, and the azure horn of a Green Horned Barbaric Bull.


    All these materials were suitable for crafting Supreme Grade artifacts, and Lin Yutie was immediately astounded upon seeing them.


    Each piece of biomaterial was incredibly rare and possessed unique properties.


    The Iron Fist of the ck giant ape was suited for creating a Supreme Grade magic gauntlet, and the wings of the dark-night bat were ideal for making a cloak. The Green Horned Barbaric Bull and the Thunder Spirit Leopard each had their distinct features.


    "Shiming, these four materials you have are extraordinary! They will definitely be used to craft powerful Supreme Grade artifacts!" Lin Yutie eximed excitedly.


    But after he finished, he saw Lin Shiming looking somewhat puzzled and speaking up.


    "Fourth Grandpa, there are actually five types of spiritual materials here!"


    Lin Shiming picked up the skin of the color-changing lizard from the table and stimted it with spiritual energy, until Lin Yutie finally saw some transparent spirit light.


    Lin Yutie coughed awkwardly, clearly having overlooked the skin of the color-changing lizard when perusing the materials while using divine sense. However, he quickly forgot the oversight, and picking up the lizard''s skin, he weighed it in his hands and infused it with spiritual energy.


    The material''s ability to change color on its own without spiritual energy piqued his interest greatly.


    Finally, after a good while, he turned to Lin Shiming excitedly,


    "Shiming, you''re very fortunate! The family just happens to have a piece of Third Rank Illusionary Crystal Stone. I''ll craft a Third Rank Invisibility Robe for you as a congrattory gift for bing the Family Head!"


    ```

 Chapter 97: Chapter 97 Familial Reformation

    In a side room of the Council Hall on Fangmu Mountain, there was a mahogany Eight Immortals table in the center.


    A teapot on the table continuously emitted wisps of white smoke upwards.


    On either side of the Eight Immortals table, a young man in a green shirt and a middle-aged Taoist robe cultivator sat opposite each other, talking.


    The young cultivator was none other than Lin Shiming, who had just emerged from the Earth Fire Hall; the middle-aged cultivator was his uncle, Lin Houyong.


    The Great Elder Lin Yuqing, along with his father and the Fifth Elder, had all gone to Lingnan County at the moment, leaving the management of all the n affairs, both great and small, to the uncle.


    In another two months or so, the n meeting would be convened again, and at that time, Lin Shiming''s appointment as the Family Head would be announced.


    It would be the third n meeting that Lin Shiming would attend.


    "The n meeting is imminent, Shiming, there''s something I need to discuss with you in advance," Lin Houyong''splexion was clearly not very good.


    "In these past three years, the changes among the family cultivators have not been significant: nine Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, an increase by two, six cultivators have broken through to thete stage of Qi Cultivation, but we have also lost six, leaving us still with twenty-eight people.


    There are forty cultivators in the middle stage of Qi Cultivation, not only fewer than thest three years but even two fewer than six years ago. However, there are now ny cultivators in the early stage of Qi Cultivation, and twenty innate cultivators!"


    Having said this, Lin Shiming''s face also looked somewhat ugly.


    The doubling of the remuneration for family cultivators had been implemented for six years now, and in these three years, the family cultivators'' sries had doubled with additional rewards for alchemy and artifact refining. Yet, the growth of the cultivatorspared to the previous three years was even somewhatcking.


    While it included the loss of several cultivators, it should be noted that the increase inte-stage and middle-stage Qi Cultivators included geniuses like Lin Shiming, Lin Shijie, and Lin Shitao.


    This waspletely unreasonable for a Foundation Establishment family n.


    Although the Lin Family was suppressed by the Li Family, the Lin Family''s remunerations were indeed distributed truthfully.


    Even if the Spirit Roots were a bit inferior, and it might be slightly harder for an increase inte-stage Qi Cultivators, it would be impossible for there to be so few middle-stage cultivators.


    This made Lin Shiming also sense a crisis, a crisis for the family.


    He understood that this was rted to the family''s Demon Hunting Team withdrawing from the Qingyun mountain range and theck of aggressive momentum within the family.


    Family reform was imperative.


    Otherwise, even if they reached Foundation Establishment or even ascended to the Purple Mansion, the Lin Family would still just be a castle in the air.


    And how could a castle in the air stand against the Purple Mansion Family Li Family? Even if they were to develop for another three hundred years, it was likely that they would still be suppressed.


    It was even possible that they would disappear.


    That day, Lin Shiming had an extensive discussion with his uncle Lin Houyong for an entire day before leaving.


    A dayter, Lin Shiming appeared at the Qinglian Pool again, reporting for a long time to the old family head, Lin Xianzhi.


    Not until the reform had a clear direction did Lin Shiming return to his dwelling to refine spiritual energy.


    ...


    Two months quietly passed by, and once again, Fangmu Mountain was lit up withnterns and decorations; the cultivators of the Lin Family, except for those left to guard Lingnan County and Xing County Square Market, all returned.


    Compared with three years ago, the Lin Family cultivators all had happy expressions and a glowing appearance, with a significantly betterplexion than the previous three years.


    They chatted in groups of threes and twos, leisurely and carefree!


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was among them, but he was now seated in the elders'' section, along with his second uncle Lin Houshou and his older brother Lin Shijie, who were newly promoted elders.


    With the arrival of the auspicious time, Lin Xianzhi, dressed in a green Taoist robe, made his appearance.


    The Lin Family first paid tribute to their ancestors in the ancestral hall, and after the ceremony, they returned to the Council Hall.


    The highly respected Lin Xianzhi was the first to announce:


    "As the Lin Family n meeting convenes for the first time in three years, I hereby dere that from today onwards, Lin Houyuan and Lin Houyong will ascend as Supreme Elders of Foundation Establishment, enjoying the tributes due to them!"


    "At the same time, Lin Shiming of the Shi generation will take up the position of Family Head!"


    Lin Xianzhi''s voice was not loud, and his speech was quite in, but it carried an unquestionable authority and dignity in the hearts of all the Lin Family cultivators.


    Regarding Lin Shiming''s session as Family Head, the Lin Family cultivators had no major objections. This matter had even been foreseen during thest n meeting three years ago.


    Moreover, Lin Shiming had made a great deal of merit, and by now, his contributions to the family were even higher than those of some elders.


    ```


    "Shiming, report on the recent developments of the family''s cultivators!"


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming nodded and then repeated the data Lin Houyong had given him two months prior.


    "In the past three years, three cultivators in our family have achieved Foundation Establishment, with two new Foundation Establishment cultivators, namely the former Family Head and Fifth Uncle Lin Houyong! This is indeed a cause for celebration!"


    "There are nine cultivators at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, an increase of three, including the Shiming generation''s Lin Shiming, Lin Shijie, and Thirteenth Uncle Lin Houwei¡ªall also causes for celebration!"


    "However!" Lin Shiming''s expression suddenly changed, and he bit down hard on that word.


    "There have been six breakthroughs in thetter stage of Qi Cultivation, but we''ve also lost six, leaving the number unchanged at twenty-eight. There are forty cultivators in the middle stage of Qi Cultivation, which is two less than even six years ago, not to mention thest three years. As for the early stage of Qi Cultivation, we are at ny, with twenty Innate cultivators."


    "What does this indicate?"


    "It indicates that some of the Shiming generation have begun to indulge in pleasures, thinking they can rest on theirurels just because they possess Dual or Quintuple Spirit Roots!"


    "Even some with Third Spirit Roots have started to ck off!"


    "The increase in family stipends was not meant to encourage your indulgence!"


    At this, the faces of many young family cultivators changed dramatically.


    This was especially true for those at the early and middle stages of Qi Cultivation.


    They were all terrified that Lin Shiming would cancel the double stipend policy of the family.


    "The family must be reformed!" Lin Shiming spoke again.


    "The double stipend policy will be adjusted as of today!"


    At these words, everyone stirred, especially the more problematic cultivators, who began murmuring their disapproval.


    In the next moment, the oppressive aura of Lin Shiming, a Ninth Level Qi Cultivator, was felt, soon followed by that of all the Ninth Level Elders.


    And then came the pressure from Lin Xianzhi!


    While the full pressure of Foundation Establishment was not released, everyone felt a chill at this moment.


    They had now been reminded.


    In the family, neither the Foundation Establishment cultivators nor the Ninth Level Elders had indulged in luxury.


    "Starting today, the double stipend will be canceled, but the double stipend for outstanding cultivators will remain!"


    "What constitutes an outstanding cultivator? Any in the early stage of Qi Cultivation who improves by two levels in three years, any in the middle stage who advances one level in three years, and any in thetter stage who advances one level in six years!"


    "Additionally, those who seed in challenging someone a rank above them also qualify as outstanding cultivators!"


    "The stipend for those with Dual and Quintuple Spirit Roots whoplete assessments will be tripled, and the same applies to those who surpass two ranks! This will increase in stages!"


    As Lin Shiming eloquently spoke, the young cultivators of the Lin Family felt a surge of excitement.


    Initially displeased with the potential reduction in stipends, the prospect of tripling their stipend for passing two ranks or for Dual and Quintuple Spirit Roots cultivatorspleting assessments quickly satisfied most of them.


    As for the small portion of cultivatorscking drive, they dared not utter another word at this moment.


    Yet, Lin Shiming was not finished. Clearing his throat, he continued:


    "Moreover, for those with lesser talent who still wish to partake in the family''s double stipends, one may choose to marry and bear children.


    Giving birth to a Quintuple Spirit Root child restores three months of double stipends on top of the original reward, a Dual Spirit Root child restores ten years of triple foundation stipends, and an Innate Spirit Root cultivator restores a lifetime triple foundation stipend!"


    Each additional sentence from Lin Shiming sent further waves of excitement through the cultivators in attendance.


    Cultivation is difficult, but having children is not. Furthermore, Lin Shiming calcted that children born to cultivators generally have better Spirit Roots and are more likely to possess Spirit Roots.


    His reform n was inspired by Lin Shizhong''s father, thinking if mortals could do it,


    why couldn''t some cultivators whocked initiative?


    Now that the Lin Family had the resources from Lingnan county and Golden Iron Stone mines, they could easily afford the family''s stipends.


    The family now needed more cultivators and needed to progress!


    ```

 Chapter 98: Chapter 98 This is Learning

    The n''s sry reform was such that even those who were unsatisfied had noints whatsoever.


    Since they were able to maintain their allowances upon having a child with a Spirit Root, they were naturally willing.


    Especially upon learning that having a child with a Dual Spirit Root meant triple the allowance for ten years, this made many cultivators go insane with excitement.


    Some cultivators even considered having children with a Heavenly Spirit Root or a rare Spirit Root, since a lifelong triple allowance was possible, and even those with a Quadruple or Quintuple Spirit Root might reach the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, and who knows, might even be an Elder.


    With this initiative in ce, some of the family''s cultivators would also start pursuing loose cultivators or female cultivators from other families, as the chances of having a child with a genius Spirit Root would be slightly higher between two cultivators.


    As for someone like Lin Shitao, whose parents were both mortals and yet possessed a Dual Spirit Root, it was ultimately one in a million.


    With the settling of Spirit Roots and a drive for advancement within the family, the next step was the distribution of family affairs.


    Lin Shiming was not satisfied with the Family''s collective management system, with only the Demon Hunting Team having a specific designation.


    Moreover, if in the future there were more Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elders, theck of positions would likewise engender a slew of problems.


    Currently, the family only had a few Elders with the ''Yu'' generation who did solid work, and some from the ''Hou'' and ''Shi'' generations who focused solely on their personal cultivation.


    With this intention in mind, Lin Shiming cleared his throat and once again spoke out loud:


    "As the number of family Elders increases, I announce that from this point on, family affairs will be divided among various halls!"


    "The divisions will include the Alchemy Hall, Artifact Refining Hall, Demon Hunting Hall, Merit Hall, Commerce Hall, Law Enforcement Hall, and others!"


    "The Law Enforcement Hall Master will be the Great Elder Lin Yuqing, the Alchemy Hall Master will be the Second Elder Lin Yuqi, the Artifact Refining Hall Master will be the Fourth Elder Lin Yutie, the Demon Hunting Hall Master will be the Seventh Elder Lin Houyong, the Commerce Hall Master will be the Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng, while the other Elders will be honorary Elders, enjoying the Elder''s tribute but not the Hall Master''s!"


    "Simultaneously, to allow the Hall Masters to have time for cultivation in their leisure, each Hall Master may appoint Deacons to manage their respective halls!"


    Below the stage, many were once again stunned to the core. They had not expected that Lin Shiming had just assumed the position of Family Head,


    Would undertake such sweeping reforms. This new title of Hall Master Elder significantly reduced the allowances for many honorary Elders.


    But at the same time, these honorary Elders would have more time to cultivate, and with more time to cultivate, they could also strive for breakthroughs in cultivation level and earn family rewards.


    Lin Shijie, for instance, would simply not be likely to serve as any Hall Master.


    Of course, for Lin Shiming, with a clear delineation of duties to different halls, he would be able to rx more in the future.


    It would not affect his own cultivation.


    Having announced two major issues, today''s meeting did not continue with the announcement of the family''s financial situation, unlike previous days.


    After all, given the recent increase in allowances, the financial situation was surely fine, and everyone believed it naturally, so there was no need to emphasize the financial situation of the family as had been done at the n meeting six years prior.


    The remaining financials and the family''s alchemists and artifact refiners were kept informed by the Elders.


    There was good news to be celebrated: over the past six years, not only had one Second Rank Superior Grade Artifact Refiner emerged in the family, but also a Second Rank Superior Grade Alchemist. Your next read is at m v|l-e''-NovelBin


    As for why Lin Yuqi and Lin Yutie were not included, thetter two were already considered within the realm of Third Rank Alchemists and Third Rank Artifact Refiners.


    The family''s n meetingsted a full two days before it concluded.


    After those two days, the Lin Family entered an era of intensive cultivation for the entire popce, even those who were not ambitious were practicing alternative methods.


    And Lin Shiming had also returned to his cave dwelling next to the Qinglian Pool on Fangmu Mountain.


    Every few days, Lin Xianzhi would share with Lin Shiming how to condense Spiritual Energy and how to polish it.


    To sessfully achieve Foundation Establishment, one must surpass three trials: the Illusionary Trial, the True Yuan Trial, and the Physical Body Trial.


    The Illusionary Trial tests a cultivator''s mind. Lin Shiming, having lived two lives, was not worried about this aspect. It was also the simplest of the three Foundation Establishment trials.


    The True Yuan Trial was the most difficult of the three, with two main challenges. The first was the conversion of gaseous mana into liquid True Yuan, which is why most cultivators fail to break through.


    If the Spiritual Energy mana is not condensed enough, one might not even achieve liquefaction, let alone aplete transformation into True Yuan.


    The second challenge is that all the meridians in the body must withstand the might of True Yuan. Naturally, the liquid True Yuan is far more powerful than gaseous mana.


    Therefore, if the meridians cannot bear it, it would also lead to failure in Foundation Establishment, with the severe cases resulting in immediate death.


    This is why most cultivators need a Foundation Establishment Pill when breaking through to ensure they can control the True Yuan and thus sessfully establish their foundation.


    Even in case of failure, the medicinal power of the Foundation Establishment Pill would protect the cultivator''s meridians, and the worst oue would only be injury, after which one could refine their Spiritual Energy and attempt Foundation Establishment once more.


    His father and his fifth uncle seeded because they painstakingly refined their Spiritual Energy for many years without the pill; especially his fifth uncle, who polished it for nearly twenty years and thus managed a narrow breakthrough.


    As for the third trial of Foundation Establishment, the Physical Body Trial, it involves the infusion of True Yuan into the body. Even for a Qi Cultivator at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, the potency is far less than that of Foundation Establishment. Therefore, all True Yuan must also be transformed, which is just a small amount.


    It naturally requires body tempering with True Yuan, which is why it is said in the Cultivation World that if one does not achieve Foundation Establishment by the age of sixty, they can never do it.


    After sixty, the body starts to decline, and attempting Foundation Establishment would inevitably lead to the body''s explosion and death, with no other possibilities.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming possessed a Foundation Establishment Pill and had nted Nourishing Spirit Flowers. In addition, whether it was the Purple Wood Heart Sutra or the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, they made Lin Shiming''s Spiritual Power extremely condensed, far more than that of an ordinary Ninth Level Qi Cultivator.


    ...


    Inside the pavilion, Lin Shiming was circting the Purple Wood Heart Sutra within his body, while Lin Xianzhi stood behind him.


    "Shiming, just keep circting it, I''ll help you check it out!" Lin Xianzhi said.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming did not beat around the bush; he began to circte the Purple Wood Heart Sutra to condense his Spiritual Energy. Although he had system prompts, he still wanted to see if he could improve further. For him, the sooner he refined his Spiritual Energy, the better, so he could achieve Foundation Establishment earlier.


    Only after Foundation Establishment would he have enough lifespan to breakthrough to the Purple Mansion!


    It would be a shame not to attempt entering the Purple Mansion when he had the Minor Divine Ability fruit in his possession.


    However, as he continued circting his energy, Lin Xianzhi, watching from behind, became increasingly astounded.


    He found that Lin Shiming''s condensation of mana was simply wless.


    There were even some aspects where he, himself, fell shortpared to Lin Shiming, which made his brows furrow tighter. He realized that this was not guidance, but learning!


    Havingpleted a small cycle of condensing his Spiritual Energy, Lin Shiming saw that Lin Xianzhi had not spoken and immediately felt puzzled. But using his Divine Sense to check the situation behind him, he could not help but be somewhat amused.


    It seemed he had underestimated his system; unless encountering a treasure, the system prompts would usually improve his cultivation technique, enhancing his skill in condensing Spiritual Power.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming felt it necessary to intentionally make a few minor mistakes in his next cycle, lest his Seventh Great Uncle lose even more face.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming also inexplicably thought of the ws in the Purple Wood Heart Sutra. The Elder Zixuan had taken him as a nominal disciple but still imparted to him a wed cultivation technique. This intention was something he could now discuss with his Seventh Great Uncle.

 Chapter 99 Shattering the Demon Core

    In the pavilion at Qinglian Pool, the afternoon passed as Lin Shimingpleted two Grand Circtions.


    Lin Xianzhi nodded frequently, offering advice from time to time, but hisplexion was not good. Although Lin Shiming''s initial mistakes were eptable, heter sensed something amiss.


    "Shiming, your method of refining spiritual energy is already proficient enough. If you maintain this, there is hope that you will sessfully refine spiritual energy within four years and achieve Foundation Establishment by the age of thirty!"


    As soon as these words were spoken, even Lin Xianzhi couldn''t help but nod in shock, praising Lin Shiming profusely.


    Even Lin Shijie, who had a double Spirit Root, couldn''t match this speed. He was now thirty-two years old and only hoped to achieve Foundation Establishment before turning thirty-eight.


    "Seventh great-uncle tters me. Shiming still has much room for improvement." Lin Shiming wasn''t proud. With such a system and so many extraordinary encounters, even someone with an ordinary quadruple Spirit Root wouldn''t be slow.


    "By the way, seventh great-uncle, Shiming has a question, though I''m not sure if it''s appropriate to ask."


    Lin Shiming hesitated for a moment before speaking seriously.


    Experience tales at m v|l e''-NovelBin


    "Speak freely!" Lin Xianzhi, seeing Lin Shiming being so cautious for the first time, also became very serious.


    "I always feel that there is a w in the Purple Wood Heart Sutra. There is a part where reversing the flow actually feels smoother."


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xianzhi also became silent instantly. There was anger in his eyes, but it disappeared in the next moment.


    He turned around, gazed at the lotus flowers, and looked at the lotus seeds.


    His eyes were sometimes distant and sometimes close.


    Suddenly, filled with emotion, he uttered a phrase that Lin Shiming found somewhat perplexing.


    "Work hard, Shiming. Your seventh great-uncle cannot step out of this chessboard, cannot leave this Spirit Pool. However, I look forward to the day¡ªto see you transform from a carp into a dragon!"


    After saying this, Lin Xianzhi left without further discussion.


    Lin Shiming also felt a sense of helplessness at this moment. What if they had given him a fake cultivation technique? Could it be that one should confront a Purple Mansion cultivator, or even a Golden Core True Person, about it?


    At the same time, he understood that there must be other dealings between his seventh great-uncle and the Zi Xuan Hermit.


    He saw a deep ambition for the Immortal Path in Lin Shijie''s eyes, on Lin Houyong''s person, and on Lin Shiming''s as well.


    Only in histe-Stage Foundation Establishment seventh great-uncle, he did not see it.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, casting aside all these thoughts, and returned to his cave dwelling to tend to the daily care of the spirit nts.


    The Minor Divine Ability tree was still the same as before, with no significant changes. It was nted at the entrance of Lin Shiming''s cave dwelling, concealed by a formation. He took all the Spirit Soil obtained from the underground stone hall and ced it under the tree once again.


    Although the Purple Wood Heart Sutra and the Nurturing Spirit Liquid were of no use to the Minor Divine Ability tree at the Qi Refinement stage, he persisted in channeling some into it every few days, hoping to hasten its growth.


    Next were the Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree and the most important Awakening Spirit Flower right now.


    In two months'' time, the Awakening Spirit Flower had begun to sprout. The vibrant green shoots burst forth from the soil like jade, exceptionally spirited and translucent, brimming with spiritual energy.


    Every time Lin Shiming stood beside the Awakening Spirit Flower, channeling the spiritual energy of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, he felt refreshed and invigorated, as if his spirit had be three times more lively.


    Just then, a Spirit Talisman flew down from the sky andnded in Lin Shiming''s hands.


    After reading it, Lin Shiming rejoiced once more.


    More than two months had passed, and the family had finally gathered the three main ingredients for the Barrier-Breaking Pill and had already concocted it today.


    The message had been sent by the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi.


    Lin Shiming opened the formation only to find Lin Shitao outside.


    "Seventh brother, this is the elixir that Grandpa Second asked me to give you!" Lin Shitao, now even more graceful than before, extended her slender and pale jade arm, revealing a Jade Bottle.


    Inside the Jade Bottle was precisely that Barrier-Breaking Demon Core.


    "Thank you, Shitao, for helping to deliver it!" Lin Shiming epted the Jade Bottle and expressed his gratitude.


    Lin Shitao then took out another Jade Bottle, inside of whichy ten Beast Nurturing Pills.


    "Seventh brother, these are the Beast Nurturing Pills I''ve made!" At this moment, Lin Shitao''s smile was blooming, happiness overflowing from the bottom of her heart.


    "Thank you again, Shitao!" Lin Shiming was extremely happy to see the Beast Nurturing Pills, but at the same time, he took out a magic sword.


    It was the very Lotus Sword that his great great uncle had bestowed upon him when they first met.


    The Lotus Sword was an intermediate grade Second Rank magic sword, which naturally was not of great use to him now, but for Lin Shitao, who was in the sixthyer of the Qi Cultivation, it was just right.


    Moreover, the Lotus Sword was engraved with a dark green tempering, which also added an elegant and enduring charm.


    "I don''t have much to gift, so I''m offering this Lotus Sword to congratte Shitao on reaching the intermediate grade as a second-rank alchemist!"


    "Thank you, seventh brother!" Lin Shitao''s little face blushed, even happier than before.


    After chatting with Lin Shitao for a few more moments, Lin Shiming returned to his cave dwelling.


    Inside the cave dwelling, he had newly excavated three stone chambers; one for the Red-haired Demon Monkey, one for the Golden Winged Mantis, and another for the Golden Luan Eagle.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Luan Eagle, both spirit beasts, often left the cave dwelling to enter the mountains behind Fangmu Mountain. The Golden Winged Mantis, however, Lin Shiming had never seen leave the cave even once.


    Lin Shiming went to the stone chamber of the Golden Winged Mantis, which was prone against the wall of the chamber. Upon seeing Lin Shiming enter, it instantly transformed into a beam of golden light, aiming to perch on Lin Shiming''s shoulder as it had done in its youth, only now it was evenrger in size than Lin Shiming.


    After being patted on the wings by Lin Shiming, it ultimately chirped and prostrated itself in front of him.


    Lin Shiming took out the Barrier-Breaking Demon Core. The demon core looked no different from an ordinary elixir, but it carried an additional faint demonic aura. In fact, the Barrier-Breaking Demon Core shared a remarkable simrity in function with the Barrier-Breaking Pill.


    The former was for cultivators in theter stages of Qi Cultivation to break through their bottlenecks, whereas thetter was for demonic beasts, though the Barrier-Breaking Demon Core was clearly stronger.


    "Chirp chirp chirp!" The Golden Winged Mantis chirped even more joyously, rubbing its big head vigorously against Lin Shiming''s chest.


    Finally, after consuming the Barrier-Breaking Demon Core, it went to a corner and surprisingly closed its eyes.


    The surrounding spiritual energy suddenly began to converge out of nowhere, carrying streaks of sharp metallic essence.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming quickly sealed the formation; this breakthrough from the Second Rank to the Third Rank would certainly not be aplished in just a few days.


    Almost at the same time as he closed the formation, the Spirit Talisman in the distance buzzed again.


    This time it was from Lin Shizhong. Lin Shiming opened the formation and saw the naive and dark-skinned young man, Lin Shizhong, grinning at him.


    "Seventh brother, Great uncle sent me to deliver a magic artifact!" he said, passing a Storage Bag to Lin Shiming.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also smiled and epted the Storage Bag; since he had given Lin Shitao a magic artifact, he then took out the Profound Water Heavy Mountain, that small mountain-shaped magic artifact.


    Since the Red-haired Demon Monkey acquired the Thousand Layer Mountain, it was no longer fond of the Profound Water Heavy Mountain, which Lin Shiming was now happy to give to Lin Shizhong.


    However, Lin Shizhong was still at the fourthyer of Qi Cultivation. It likely would not be needed for the next five or six years.


    "Thank you, seventh brother!" Lin Shizhong epted the magic artifact from Lin Shimo and was overjoyed, especially after sensing that it was a superior grade artifact.


    "Your cultivation level is not high enough yet. I''m giving it to you now so that you can take it for adventures and take on guard duties when you''re a bit older!" Lin Shiming offered his advice and after talking for a while, he returned to his cave dwelling.


    At this point, he couldn''t help but be interested in the Third Rank magic artifact that Lin Yutie was refining for him.

 Chapter 100: Chapter 100 Foundation Establishment, Nothing More

    Within the storage bag were ced four magic artifacts: a Thunder Spirit Hook, a ck Ape Iron Fist, a ck Bat Cloak, and a Green Ox Crescent de.


    These four magic artifacts were clearly of supreme grade, and even if they were to be ced in the Lin Family''s Treasure Pavilion, they''d rank among the top.


    Whether it was the quality of the materials or the master who crafted them, both aspects were impable at this level.


    Moreover, each one possessed its own unique characteristics.


    Of course, Lin Shiming''s gaze merely paused on them momentarily, as his interesty not in these four.


    He continued to sift through the storage bag until his eyes rested peculiarly on a piece of green clothing.


    At first nce, the green clothing seemed like the ordinary n garb worn by the Lin Family members.


    This was something that every member of the Lin Family possessed.


    But he knew better¡ªLin Yutie would not give him an ordinary n outfit without reason.


    This piece of clothing was very likely a third-rank magic artifact.


    When Lin Shiming picked up the green garment, he felt a cool and clear sensation, followed by an astonishing surge of Spirit Might.


    Lin Shiming was overjoyed in an instant, certain that it was a third-rank magic artifact!


    He tried channeling his mana into the third-rank feathered robe, but as it wasn''t True Yuan, he only managed to elicit a faint green glow from the n outfit before it ceased abruptly.


    Far from being dismayed, Lin Shiming was delighted; his degree of spiritual power refinement couldn''t even slightly activate it, suggesting that this green n outfit, even among third-rank magic artifacts, was no ordinary piece.


    "Let''s call you Qinglian Taoist Robe," Lin Shiming said, satisfied as he put away the Qinglian Taoist Robe, before testing out the four supreme grade magic artifacts.


    Only then did he contentedly sit down to cultivate.


    In the path of cultivation, years pass like moments. Another two months went by.


    Lin Shiming emerged from his cultivation chamber to see that the stone chamber of the Golden Winged Mantis was still undisturbed.


    However, the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Luan Eagle ran towards him, circling from left and right.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey howled, its eyes whirring towards Lin Shiming''s storage bag.


    Seeing this, the Golden Luan Eagle also attempted to howl, ending up with aical sound that was unlike any other.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but smile wryly as he fed the two beasts some Spirit Food and Beast Nurturing Pills, nning to tend to the Spirit nts next. But just then, a Sound Transmission Talisman flew to the outside of Lin Shiming''s room.


    He received the Sound Transmission Talisman and discovered it was from the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi.


    The transmitted message was urgent!


    Without much thought, Lin Shiming flew on his sword towards the Earth Fire Hall.


    Today the mes in the Earth Fire Hall continued to surge high, but the air was slightly heavy and restless, it seemed the Cooling Technique Formation had lost its effect.


    Inside the Pill Pavilion, it was particrly sweltering.


    Upon entering, Lin Shiming saw Lin Yuqi with a head of white hair, looking extremely aged.


    It appeared that even spiritual energy could not sustain his vitality any longer.


    Lin Shitao was supporting him, her eyes flickering with brightness.


    Beyond them, there was no one else.


    "Second Granduncle!" Lin Shiming greeted with a bow.


    "Family Head, you''ve finally arrived. me this Second Elder for taking so long to concoct an elixir!" Lin Yuqi''s voice was no longer hearty and was somewhat pale and powerless.


    Nevertheless, he produced a pill bottle,


    Inside the pill bottle were indeed two Foundation Establishment Pills!


    Two pills had been sessfully concocted!


    One must know, the Foundation Establishment Pill was already not easy to concoct among third-rank elixirs.


    And here was Lin Yuqi, a Qi Cultivator at the Ninth Level, sessfully concocting two pills on his third attempt!


    This was not just a matter of talent and formations, but also countless efforts and energy!


    "Second Granduncle, you must rest well from now on!" Lin Shiming''s heart trembled.


    However, thetter waved his hand, intending to make a bold statement, but was interrupted by a cough.


    Subsequently, that bold deration was left unsaid.


    Instead, there was a look of reminiscence.


    His gaze at that moment seemed to reach far into the distance.


    "I probably won''t live to see Shitao be a third-rank Alchemist..."


    "You will see it, Second Granduncle. Qi Cultivators have a lifespan of 120 years. After you rest for a while and re-cultivate your technique, the spiritual energy will nourish your body, and all will be well," Lin Shiming hurriedly advised.


    Yet Lin Yuqi''s gaze remained the same, then he sat down on a stone chair in the Pill Pavilion and began to recount the past in detail.


    "Back in those days..."


    Thirty years ago, the family was purchasing the Foundation Establishment Pill. At that time, Lin Yuqi was a candidate for Foundation Establishment, but unfortunately, as the news of selling Foundation Establishment Pills spread, they were intercepted by viins who forcefully robbed the pills.


    Not a single Foundation Establishment Pill remained, and several elders died protecting him.


    Among them was a Foundation Establishment Cultivator and also a Third Rank Alchemist.


    That time, only Lin Yuqi survived.


    Laying down their lives, a Foundation Establishment Cultivator and a Third Rank Alchemist ensured his survival...


    Later, he managed to escape.


    He led the Lin Family''s Lin Xianzhi to seek vengeance. With his Qi Cultivation at the Ninth Level, he fought unchallenged among his peers, fought until his spiritual energy was drained, fought until his blood was in turmoil, his meridians reversing!


    However, the group that attacked them had the backing of the Li Family.


    The battle resulted in Lin Xianzhi suffering severe injuries and poisoning, while he himself greatly damaged his lifespan.


    The story ended in solitude, like a great dream.


    It was at this point that Lin Shiming finally understood Lin Yuqi''s persistence.


    This old man carried the grand ambition of the family''s rise in the first half of his life, and in the second half, he owed the family a Third Rank Alchemist.


    "Second Grandfather..." Lin Shiming''s respect grew even stronger.


    "Shiming, you''re right. This old man wants to re-cultivate the technique. If I couldn''t achieve my desires when young, I must at least take a look on the cultivator''s path in my old age, otherwise... I really can''t be reconciled!"


    Lin Yuqi said, filled with emotion. Then, he actually stood up and walked toward the Qinglian Pool.


    He left behind an astonishing piece of news for the two of them.


    Second Elder Lin Yuqi was going to enter seclusion for a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment!


    Not for the Dao, not for immortality.


    Just to nce upon the pathway to immortality, to witness the Dao of his youth!


    At that moment, Lin Shiming felt frantic. He wanted to stop it, but he simply couldn''t.


    He then sent a Sound Transmission to his seventh great-uncle, to all the elders of the Lin Family, and finally to Lin Shijie.


    By the Qinglian Pool, the elder stepped one foot at a time, arriving at the pavilion.


    "The unworthy descendant of the Lin Family''s Yu generation requests to use the family''s sacrednd for Foundation Establishment! I ask for seventh great-uncle''s grace in granting permission!"


    His loud voice echoed over the Qinglian Pool, resonating through Fangmu Mountain.


    Several elders hurried toward the mountain.


    Within the Qinglian Pool, a single word quietly emerged.


    "Granted!"


    Lin Yuqi stepped forward, as if he were a Foundation Establishment Cultivator himself, levitating andnding on the pavilion''s roof!


    Today, he would attempt Foundation Establishment at the age of a hundred!


    Even more so, to look down on all the mountains below!


    He who seeks the Dao, what fear has he of death?


    The robust spiritual energy returned, gathering more and more.


    Lin Shiming was extremely anxious below. He waited for Lin Shijie to arrive, only to learn that Lin Shijie was in seclusion, still unware and continuing to refine his spiritual energy.


    He had no choice but to take out a Spirit Talisman, recording the scene before him.


    The spiritual energy gathered increasingly. Although unable to make a breakthrough, Lin Yuqi undoubtedly had honed his spiritual energy for nearly five or six decades, paired with the vigor of a centurion.


    He almost broke through the Illusionary Trial and the True Yuan Trial in one breath!


    And as True Yuan emerged, in that moment, Lin Yuqi''s three thousand white hairs instantly turned ck.


    Lin Shiming saw, in the younger reflection of Lin Yuqi, a semnce of Lin Shijie.


    "Foundation Establishment is nothing more than this!"


    A heroic voice arrived, as Lin Yuqi roared withughter to the heavens, only to see spiritual energy gathering from all directions.


    Following that came a thunderous boom.


    Theughing ceased!


    Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.


    "The Yu generation''s Lin Shiming respectfully sees off Second Grandfather!"


    "The Yu generation respectfully sees off the Second Elder!"


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 Chapter 101: 101

    What is the Dao?


    At this moment, Lin Shiming stood in front of the Qinglian Pool, looking around nkly.


    By his side, Lin Shitao was sobbing uncontrobly.


    After all, she was still that timid little girl.


    Having lost her kin, she finally broke down in tears.


    Second Elder Lin Yuqi was respected by everyone in the Lin Family n, even those alchemy apprentices who were harshly mentored by him were now, dressed in the robes of alchemists, sending off the Second Elder one by one on Fangmu Mountain.


    At this moment, everyone was sincere.


    And in the distance, the entrance to the cave dwelling burst open.


    A youth in green robes, looking as if his soul had left his body, walked out.


    "Grandfather!"


    A cry echoed, lingering for a long time around Fangmu Mountain.


    The Great Dao is merciless, but people have emotions!


    The youth in green robes finally reached the pavilion by the Qinglian Pool.


    He knelt down with a thunderous thud!


    At this moment, he seemed to realize he had made a mistake.


    He wanted to walk the Immortal Path, to tread the strongest path of Immortal Cultivation, but at this moment, he hesitated, regretting his choice.


    On the Immortal Path, he didn''t even get to see his grandfather for onest time.


    He had always felt that the Familycked an absolute powerhouse, whereas his grandfather thought the Familycked a Third Rank Alchemist, one who could concoct Foundation Establishment Pills.


    "Grandfather, I know you wanted Shijie to be an alchemist, but Shijie really has no time, Shijie''s goal in this life is to reach Foundation Establishment by forty, mid-phase of Foundation Establishment by one hundred, Purple Mansion by one hundred fifty, Golden Core by three hundred. There''s truly no spare time..."


    Lin Shijie clenched his fists, trying to grasp the lingering essence in the air, only to find he couldn''t hold on to it.


    "Those who hear about the Dao, exist with the Great Dao!"


    "What is there to grieve for, and toment about? We cultivators, why not tread towards the end of the Immortal Path, to witness the transformation of Heaven and Earth, the cycle of life and death?" Lin Xianzhi came out from the cave dwelling, and with a few words, he awakened the crowd.


    Lin Shijie also looked towards Lin Xianzhi.


    After a long time, he nodded fiercely.


    "Continue to adhere to the Dao in your heart!" Lin Xianzhi said and then turned around.


    Lin Shiming also left to prepare for thememoration ceremony, the respect due to a n elder.


    He too needed to give Lin Shijie some time alone.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming couldn''t help but feel deep sorrow, yet a sudden epiphany as well.


    At this moment, he found that the Great Dao Heart within him had be more resolute.


    He did not want to turn into a fistful of yellow soil or a wisp of dust after a hundred years.


    Once thememoration ceremony was over, Lin Shiming delegated the family matters to the elders and began a seclusion.


    A seclusive cultivation to the death!


    Without breaking through to Foundation Establishment, he would not leave.


    On Fangmu Mountain, peach blossoms bloomed again and again, dense swarms of spirit bees were seen, but not the beekeepers.


    By the Qinglian Pool, day by day, lotus leaves rose higher; emerald green, and lotus flowers withered and bloomed, yet the young man was still nowhere to be seen.


    In the blink of an eye, two years passed, and Lin Shiming opened his eyes.


    Looking at the spiritual energy within his body that had been honed to its limit, it had almost turned into a vapor state.


    It was beginning to transform into True Yuan.


    But Lin Shiming still shook his head in the end.


    However, he also wanted to ovee the True Yuan stage in one fell swoop.


    Next, Lin Shiming released the spiritual energy of the Heart of Heaven Wood as well.


    He wanted the spiritual energy within the Heart of Heaven Wood to condense together.


    Beyond this, Lin Shiming got up and went to the medicinal garden.


    The Awakening Spirit Flowers that had sprouted before had now grown robustly, blossoming into bright flowers; peach-yellow in color, with spirit bees collecting nectar from them.


    Indeed, this time, not only was Lin Shiming using the Awakening Spirit Flowers to temper his Divine Sense, but he also had the spirit bees.


    He intended to use the honey brewed by the spirit bees to further temper his Divine Sense.


    At this moment, his bee swarm had grown to more than a thousand, and for this purpose, he specifically assigned a hundred spirit bees to brew the honey from the Awakening Spirit Flower.


    Next to the Awakening Spirit Flower, there was a slightly smaller beehive.


    Inside the beehive at this moment, there was already almost half a spoonful of spiritual honey.


    Lin Shiming plucked the spent Awakening Spirit Flower whose honey had been harvested and once again entered the stone chamber.


    In the stone chamber, Lin Shiming first swallowed the Awakening Spirit Flower, then took the spiritual honey together with it.


    The moment he consumed it, Lin Shiming felt his entire mind bing terrifyingly active, and his six senses as well as a cultivator''s most important Divine Sense were gradually increasing.


    The limit of a Qi Cultivator''s Divine Sense is roughly around five hundred zhang, and at this moment, he saw his Divine Sense''s range slowly expand. Half an hourter, his Divine Sense''s range stopped at five hundred and ten zhang.


    At this point, when he used his Divine Sense to control and refine his magical power, he discovered that the refinement that had already reached its limit had improved somewhat.


    Thus, for the next half year, he continued to consume the Awakening Spirit Flower and the spiritual honey while continuing to refine his magical power.


    The magical power within the Mu Xin, as well as his own magical power, were also quietly bing more solidified.


    On this day, Lin Shiming used thest of the Awakening Spirit Flowers and suddenly opened his eyes.


    His Divine Sense expanded, and within the span of a full eight hundred zhang, every de of grass and tree came into view.


    Besides the advancement of his Divine Sense, at this moment, the magical power in his body, whether it was from the Mu Xin or his own stores, was almost half-liquefied.


    Even his meridians had be thicker and sturdier than before. Continue your adventure at m|v-l''e -NovelBin


    "The time hase!"


    Lin Shiming murmured with joy, but he did not immediately make a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment.


    Instead, he went to sleep beside the bed, deeply fatigued from three years of honing spiritual energy. Even though his Divine Sense had advanced by leaps and bounds, he still needed a thorough andplete rest.


    He had always believed that in cultivation, a bnce between tension and rxation was best.


    The next day at dawn, Lin Shiming awoke from sleep and once again started the cirction of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    Only after going through two full Grand Circtions and reaching a critical point with his essence, energy, and spirit, did he finally take a deep breath.


    He took out a Foundation Establishment Pill and swallowed it.


    As Lin Shiming controlled the spiritual energy to continuepressing it into True Yuan...


    He seemed to fall into his memories, from before his transmigration to after, every single detail reflected back at him like a mirror.


    One scene shattered, transitioning into the next.


    In his youth, he topped the province in the college entrance examination, causing jubtion in his family as rtives came to celebrate in droves.


    A coolness swept through his mind, and he sighed; he had never taken the college entrance examination. It was a regret of his, a fleeting dream within a dream.


    The scene shattered!


    In his prime, he was a sessful entrepreneur, covered by various media outlets; his name was celebrated far and wide!


    A coolness swept through his mind, and in silence, he reflected on his life of coding, dry and dull. If he had another life, he would certainly start a business.


    The scene shattered!


    After his transmigration, he became the Li Family''s Heavenly Spirit Root, envied by countless cultivators and doted on by numerous elders.


    Foundation Establishment protected his path, Purple Mansion imparted its teachings to him, and forming a Golden Core was within sight!


    This time, no coolness was needed; he was furious, vowing that one day, he would utterly destroy the Li Family!


    ...


    Scenes shattered one after another, as Lin Shiming experienced joy and sorrow, rage and grief.


    When he awoke, most of his spiritual energy had already transformed into True Yuan.


    Lin Shiming suddenly broke out into a cold sweat.


    He hadn''t anticipated that the Illusionary Trial would coincide with the True Yuan Trial.


    No wonder that if one''s cultivation of spiritual energy was not up to standard and they attempted to forcibly break through to Foundation Establishment without the Foundation Establishment Pill, they would only encounter their own demise.


    Because in the Illusionary Trial, one simply cannot stop.


    When True Yuan bursts through the meridians, all you are left with is regret.


    Lin Shiming let out a low shout, continuing to elerate the transformation into True Yuan.


    But this process was exceedingly prolonged; consider that a normal Qi Cultivator breaking through to Foundation Establishment would need at least half a year, if not one to two years!


    And remember, Lin Shiming not only had his own magical power but also the Mu Xin.


    Furthermore, ording to the Secret Technique, Lin Shiming''s Mu Xin would also transform into a Spirit tform during his breakthrough to Foundation Establishment, meaning Lin Shiming would possess Twin Spirit tforms.

 Chapter 102 Breakthrough in Foundation Establishment

    By the Qinglian Pool, the elders of the Lin Family once again gathered together.


    In the pavilion, Lin Xianzhi gazed at the pool surface now covered by green lotuses, with blossoms poking through, marking another year of the Qinglian bloom.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, the Qingxuan grand event will start again in two months," Lin Houyuan spoke up.


    "Hmm, this time you will lead the team to Qingxuan City, remember to maintain harmony and keep in touch with my fellow apprentice, Brother Xie!" Lin Xianzhi nodded without turning around, his gaze lifting toward Lin Shiming''s cave dwelling.


    The cave dwelling that hadn''t been opened for two years.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, the Qian Family has sent a message asking when we will take action?" This time, it was Lin Shijie who spoke, but if Lin Shiming had been there, he would have noticed that Lin Shijie had already advanced to the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    His cultivation was sharp and clear, and after going through Lin Yuqi''s incident, Lin Shijie now seemed like an extremely sharp sword.


    "Wait!"


    Lin Xianzhi continued to respond, his eyes also filled with concern.


    The foundation cultivators of the family were still not enough!


    Just as he spoke these words, two surges of spirit might emanated, and everyone was instantly overjoyed.


    Lin Shiming had broken through, and as expected, the Golden Winged Mantis had also advanced.


    The Lin Family had once again produced a Third Rank demonic beast.


    At this moment, Lin Houyuan, who was far away, also heaved a huge sigh of relief. As Lin Shiming''s father, he knew of Lin Shiming''s pride as well.


    He understood the effort his son had dedicated to the Great Dao.


    However, before everyone had the chance to offer their congrattions, another surge of spirit might emanated.


    Every single person was shocked by this, and many were even specting whether the Red-haired Demon Monkey had also advanced.


    With anticipation, everyone waited by the pavilion for half a day until the cave dwelling opened, and a cultivator in green robes stepped out decisively.


    It was none other than Lin Shiming, who had been in closed-door cultivation for more than two years.


    At this moment, his cultivation was at the early Foundation Establishment Stage, and it was not yet stable, his spirit might visibly hard to control.


    Lin Shiming had intended to consolidate his cultivation before making an appearance, but when he sessfully established his foundation, his divine sense expanded to a staggering range of fifteen hundred zhang, covering the entirety of Fangmu Mountain.


    He naturally also noticed the Lin Family elders waiting outside.


    Readtest chapters at m_v-l''e|-NovelBin


    At the same time, the Golden Winged Mantis broke through almost simultaneously to be a Third Rank spirit beast.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Grandfather, Fourth Uncle, Fifth Uncle, Father, Uncle, Fifth Uncle, Big Brother..." Lin Shiming greeted each one in turn.


    "Great! My Lin Family now boasts five Foundation Establishment cultivators! We have taken a big step towards restoring the facade of the Purple Mansion Family!" Lin Xianzhiughed out loud.


    The other elders and seniors were also extremely happy at this moment.


    "Shiming, this is a Consolidation Pill!" Lin Xianzhi took out a pill bottle and handed it to Lin Shiming, then he drew a Third Rank intermediate-grade sword from his storage bag.


    The sword was a vibrant green, clearly a wood attribute sword.


    This was also the most suitable for his Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming hastened to express his gratitude, feeling extremely warm inside.


    At the same time, he felt a soaring ambition.


    Before foundation establishment, he still used the family as a shield.


    After foundation establishment, it was time for him to protect the family with his own strength.


    Finally, he could be of help to Seventh Great-Uncle in battle.


    "Shiming, what''s the deal with the three surges of spirit might?" Lin Xianzhi suddenly asked at this moment.


    With this question, he voiced the curiosity of many.


    ```


    To the Golden Winged Mantis, countless legends had already circted among the Lin Family.


    What was once a discarded egg purchased for a handful of spirit stones was now on the verge of bing a Third Rank Spirit Beast.


    "Reporting back to Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming also cultivated a secret technique, and the Golden Winged Mantis has sessfully reached the third rank!" Lin Shiming didn''t bother to hide it, though he did omit some details of the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique.


    The Purple Wood Heart Sutra also had a matching secret technique, so there were no further questions.


    "Shiming, you should first consolidate your cultivation level and refine the treasure sword. In one month, the family will head out to Qingyun Mountain Range!" Lin Xianzhi said before he was the first to leave.


    The rest of the family''s elders also followed with congrattions for Lin Shiming.


    After presenting their gifts, they too took their leave, preparing for the departure.


    Lin Shiming returned to his cave dwelling and first visited the stone chamber where the Golden Winged Mantis was housed. The Golden Winged Mantis was now as big as a water buffalo.


    Especially remarkable were its pair of golden sickle-like limbs, each over two meters long, incredibly sharp, and seemingly slicing through the air as they moved.


    Of course, the biggest difference was in the Golden Winged Mantis''s wings, which had transformed from four wings to six, creating a whirlwind with each flutter.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, having been in seclusion for too long, was now continuously chirping at Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming hurriedly opened his storage bag and took out the spirit food he had prepared earlier, which included several tens of pounds of spirit fish.


    However, the Golden Winged Mantis devoured it in no time at all.


    Clearly not satiated, it rubbed Lin Shiming''s hand with its triangr head and then gestured at his storage bag with its sickle-like limbs.


    "You want this?" Lin Shiming couldn''t believe it. The Golden Winged Mantis seemed to be indicating he wanted a Beast Nurturing Pill.


    But one should know that the Beast Nurturing Pill was just an Intermediate Grade Second Rank elixir, with only a maturing effect.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but guess whether the Golden Winged Mantis had developed a liking for the Beast Nurturing Pill as food, or if it had yet to reach its ultimate form.


    One should know that Third Rank demonic beasts also divide into early stage, middle stage, andte stage Spirit Beasts.


    The thought alone excited Lin Shiming even more.


    He quickly took out several Beast Nurturing Pills and fed them to the Golden Winged Mantis.


    After calming the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming went to check on the Golden Luan Eagle and the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    The Golden Luan Eagle had reached theter stages of Second Rank but had just entered that phase. Furthermore, judging by its size andck of interest in the Beast Nurturing Pill, it was likely at its peak. Although he had anticipated this, disappointment was still unavoidable.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey had been the most active in recent years, always roaming the mountains behind Fangmu Mountain. If not for the Spirit Contract, Lin Shiming would have suspected the monkey might be rebellious.


    Lastly, Lin Shiming checked on the Seeking Spirit Bees. The Spirit Bee was still an Intermediate Grade Second Rank queen, along with a thousand or so spirit bees. There was plenty of honey stored up.


    But at this moment, these no longer held much significance for him.


    What thrilled him was that after his spiritual energy hadpletely transformed into True Yuan, the Minor Divine Ability Tree finally responded.


    As he slowly infused his True Yuan into it, the treasure tree began to glow with colorful lights, and a force of suction emanated from the tree, targeting Lin Shiming.


    Suddenly, the True Yuan transformed by the Purple Wood Heart Sutra inside Lin Shiming began to pour continuously into the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    This transfer of True Yuansted for quite a while, consuming double the True Yuan he typically possessed.


    If it had been any other cultivator practicing the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, they would likely have been drained dry, which made him wonder how the cultivators of the Qingxuan Sect managed to expand their True Yuan capacity.


    The next moment, whether it was an illusion or something else, Lin Shiming saw purple spirit patterns beginning to appear on the crown of the Minor Divine Ability Tree, but they quickly faded away.


    As if nothing had happened, Lin Shiming didn''t dare to hesitate and immediately transmitted a message to his Seventh Great-Uncle, but it seemed thetter was also at a loss.


    Eventually, Lin Shiming had to put the matter aside.


    He took Consolidation Pills to solidify his True Yuan.


    Simultaneously, he withdrew the Jade Slip that contained the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, on which a secret technique was inscribed, the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation¡ªa matching secret technique of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra!


    ```

 Chapter 103 Game Theory

    ```


    Half a monthter, in the Earth Fire Hall, Lin Shiming could not help but head toward the Pill Pavilion.


    The familiar disciples, the familiar control over the furnace and alchemy process, seemed hardly different from before.


    Only now, without the presence of the second grandfather, Lin Shitao had also begun her retreat.


    The current head of the Lin Family Pill Pavilion was the newly promoted second-rank superior grade alchemist, Lin Houxuan, an elegant middle-aged man who was also Lin Shiming''s fifteenth uncle, though his cultivation was only at the eighthyer of Qi Cultivation.


    Therefore, even with the Formation Artifact Manual, Lin Houxuan could not refine third rank elixirs.


    "Family Head, here is the Beast Nurturing Pill!" Lin Houxuan familiarly took out a pill bottle, causing Lin Shiming to feel a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu; inside the pill bottle were indeed Beast Nurturing Pills.


    Lin Shiming subconsciously took it, and after offering some words of encouragement to Lin Houxuan, he gave him some spirit honey.


    Lin Houxuan, being just over fifty, still had hope for achieving Foundation Establishment.


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    Taking spirit honey could help him break through to the ninthyer and start polishing his spiritual energy early.


    Lin Shiming did not linger any longer and went to his intended destination, the Artifact Refining Pavilion.


    At that moment, Lin Yutie was not refining artifacts but was instructing Lin Shizhong, who had already begun preparing to refine a second-rank intermediate grade magic artifact.


    Although Lin Shizhong''s talent for cultivation was far inferior to Lin Shitao''s, his talent for artifact refining was indeed somewhat terrifying.


    "Fourth grandfather!" Lin Shiming called out.


    "Family Head!" Lin Yutie also responded.


    Lin Yutie was clearly emotional; the little child from twenty years ago had now be a Foundation Establishment great cultivator.


    "Fourth grandfather, Shiming has a favor to ask!" Lin Shiming did not engage in much idle chit-chat and straightforwardly stated his purpose.


    "I need to refine nine wooden attribute sword nks!"


    "Sword nks are no problem. For a third rank magic artifact, the most difficult part is the internal spirit formation!" Lin Yutie did not ask further questions and directly agreed.


    After leaving some spirit honey in the Artifact Refining Pavilion and leaving behind thirty thousand spirit stones, Lin Shiming also returned to the cave mansion beside Qinglian Pool.


    The nine wooden attribute sword nks were to serve as the nine array bases for setting up the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation; one could say that this secret technique was his life''s array formation.


    Even though Lin Shiming was a Foundation Establishment cultivator and the nine sword nks were third rank magic swords, he could still nurture them with his Spirit tform, and once deployed, their power would be far stronger than an ordinary sword array.


    It could be considered a trump card.


    This was also a safeguard for the uing trip to the Purple Mansion secret realm.


    In addition, Lin Shiming took out the Qinglian Taoist Robe refined by the Fourth Elder, Lin Yutie. It was made from third rank Illusionary Crystal Stone and the skin of a chameleon beast, providing excellent concealment effects and capable of blocking divine sense.


    A third rank magic artifact is different from a second rank magic artifact; it requires a much longer time to attune to and one also needs to leave a True Yuan mark inside it.


    After Lin Shiming had attuned to both the Green Lotus Taoist Robe and the Purple Wood Sword given to him by Lin Xianzhi, the half-month period had psed.


    The Lin Family''s senior members once again gathered beside Qinglian Pool.


    Lin Xianzhi wore a serious expression. This time, only a few Foundation Establishment cultivators were present, including the Great Elder Lin Yuqing, the Fourth Elder Lin Yutie, and the Eighth Elder Lin Houshou.


    "This Purple Mansion Cave Mansion operation is of great importance. Shiming, Houyong, Yuqing, and Houshou will apany me there!"


    "Shijie will be stationed at Fangmu Mountain to prevent petty provocations!"


    "Moreover, the family will be on full alert. Additionally, the excavation of Golden Iron Stone will be halted; all further actions will be decided after our triumphant return from the Qingyun Mountain Range!"


    ¡­


    Lin Xianzhiid out the arrangements one by one. No one dared to contradict him, nor did anyone dare to discuss them.


    The operation to the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion could not afford any mistakes. It was quite possible that the Qian Family, overwhelmed by greed, might take action against the Lin Family. Thus, Shiming with his Golden Winged Mantis had to go, effectively adding the power of a third rankbatant.


    The reason Lin Houyong was chosen to go instead of Lin Shijie was that while both were nearly equal inbat power, Lin Shijie clearly had greater potential and was more suited for holding the fort.


    Lin Shijie, no longer the young and inexperienced youth that he once was, responded solemnly and assured that before the return of the seventh granduncle, the Lin Family would surely remain safe and sound.


    Once the mobilization wasplete, Lin Xianzhi began to distribute Spirit Talismans.


    ```


    This time, the Spirit Talismans were all Third Rank. For the Second Rank Elders, Lin Yuqing and Lin Houshou, Lin Xianzhi took out a treasured talisman from the family''s collection for the two of them. Then, he produced an Array te, which was precisely a set of Third Rank Inferior Grade Array.


    Clearly, at the crucial moment, Lin Houshou would be like being in water, controlling a Third Rank Array to defend against enemies.


    With everything ready, Lin Shiming also obtained nine Third Rank sword nks from Lin Yutie.


    "Depart!" As Lin Xianzhi gave themand, everyone immediately became extremely solemn.


    A Spirit Boat ascended, and in the blink of an eye, it expanded into a golden giant boat.


    Without hesitation, several people swiftly took off into the sky, boarding the boat and heading towards the Qingyun Mountain range.


    ...


    At the Qian Family''s ancestral home, a mysterious underground chamber.


    A few Taoist Robe Cultivators were engaged in heated discussion.


    If an outsider were present, they would be amazed at the Qian Family''s foundation.


    Among the seven people present, all were Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and Qian Bosheng, who once had an encounter with Lin Shiming in Xing County Square Market, was sitting in the deputy''s seat.


    Sitting in the main seat was a white-haired Taoist Robe Elder. The Elder was resting with eyes closed, and no one dared to speak before he opened his mouth.


    This person was none other than the old ancestor of the Qian Family, Qian Yongfu.


    A Cultivator at the peak of thete Foundation Establishment stage, he was half a step away from Purple Mansion.


    The Qian Family gave this matter such great importance because they were searching for an opportunity for Qian Yongfu to make a breakthrough to the Purple Mansion.


    If sessful in one fell swoop, the Qian Family would be the secondrgest Purple Mansion Family in Yunzhou; and with their family''s background in Qingxuan Sect, it was only a matter of time before they surpassed the Li Family.


    Just as the Li Family was able to secretly suppress the Lin Family in the past, they would naturally be able to suppress the Li Family when the time came.


    "Bosheng, speak of how we should cooperate with the Lin Family."


    "Reporting to Uncle Five, the Lin Family is weak, with their strongest being Lin Xianzhi, who is nearly on par with Li Xiulei. With our Qian Family''s ancestral Secret Technique, which can conceal a cultivation level, the Lin Family is hardly worth mentioning.


    As long as there are no Purple Mansion Great Demons in the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, Bosheng will definitely secure the opportunity for Uncle Five!"


    Qian Bosheng spoke indifferently, exuding great confidence.


    The Elder nodded:


    "Take thiste-stage Sword Puppet with you, just in case!"


    The Elder produced a Storage Bag and handed it to Qian Bosheng, who was also quick to express his tion.


    With an additional Sword Puppet, he was confident that he could even battle a Purple Mansion Great Demon.


    ...


    In the Huangyun Mountain Li Family home, Li Xiulei, Li Chengzhi, and Li Chengli, threete-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, gathered.


    Beneath them, a Cultivator at the early stage of Foundation Establishment was reporting the situation.


    What was terrifying was that what he reported included the moves of the Qian Family as well as all the movements of the Lin Family.


    Li Chengzhi touched a bug pattern on his poison-streaked robe, which eventually transformed into a small insect.


    Then, he was seen to squeeze it hard, and the Spirit Insect perished, bursting into numerous liquids.


    Following that, a streak of Spirit Light flew far away and vanished from sight.


    "The remaining Cultivators of the Huang Family are also dead, it''s an absolute sess!"


    "Big Brother, you won''t stop me from turning the entire Huang Family into bug food now, will you? How dare these insignificant Lin and Qian Families, and Huang Family, covet the legacy Cave Mansion left by the Artifact Refining Mo Family? Completely ignorant of their own mortality!"


    "Do as you please, but remember, Lin Xianzhi must be killed by me!" Li Chengliughed fiercely.


    Afterwards, the Huangyun Mountain Li Family also began to mobilize.


    Soon, a Spirit Boat likewise tore through the sky and departed.

 Chapter 104: Chapter 104 Fire Cloud Bird

    Half a monthter, upon the Qingyun Mountain range, a gigantic golden light sped past and descended upon a small hilltop.


    It was the Lin Family''s Spirit Boat; evidently, they had arrived at the predetermined location earlier than the Qian Family.


    "Hou Shou, set up the first and second formations a hundred meters out," Lin Xianzhimanded.


    Then he turned to Lin Houyong:


    "You should also sit down and cultivate."


    Lin Houyong had been steering the Spirit Boat this time, and this was to ensure that Lin Xianzhi''s spiritual power was always abundant.


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    As for Lin Shiming at the moment, he was still inside the room of the Spirit Boat.


    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation had reached a critical moment. He saw nine Spirit Swords rotating in the air before him, emitting sharp, piercing sword cries continuously.


    In his hands, the true yuan of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra was being cast continuously, merging into the Spirit Swords.


    With every Spirit Art he cast, sweat dripped from his brow.


    Having been on the Spirit Boat for half a month, he had already failed several times. Fortunately, this was engraving the secret techniques of the Spirit Formation and not true artifact refining. Plus, he had the daily system prompts guiding him.


    "Buzz!"


    As the Nine Spirit Swords vibrated nearly at the same frequency!


    Purple sword light stretched out continuously, and Lin Shiming finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    The Nine Swords Formation was finallyplete.


    With a beckoning gesture, the nine Spirit Swords, arranged in a line, shot towards his body.


    In the end, they were absorbed into the Spirit tform.


    The greatest ability of the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation''s secret technique was that the nine Formation Swords, like a Lifebound Treasure, could be infused and cultivated within the body.


    When facing enemies, one only needed to release the Sword Array, which would then deploy the Spirit Formation within it to sh at foes with the Formation.


    Usually, cultivators could only cultivate up to three swords at once, but Lin Shiming, with the fake Spirit tform of the Heavenly Heart, could actually manage to cultivate all nine swords at once without any trouble.


    Once this technique was aplished, the restless heart of Lin Shiming also settled down greatly.


    Standing up, he walked out of the Spirit Boat and intended to ask his Uncle for the situation.


    However, he saw another Spirit Boat had arrived in the sky at some unknown time.


    This Spirit Boat wasrger and more magnificent, with the huge g of the Qian Family fluttering above.


    At the front of the Spirit Boat, Qian Bosheng did not show himself. Instead, a young Foundation Establishment cultivator looked down condescendingly at the Lin Family.


    "Seems like the Daoists of the Lin Family have been waiting for quite a while!"


    His tone was highly arrogant, speaking directly to Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi did not open his mouth, as there was no parity of status, and this cultivator''s gaze was far too disdainful.


    Instead, Lin Shiming stepped forward.


    "Has elder Qian Bosheng note? If his body is ill and he cannot make the trip, our Lin Family wouldn''t mind assisting you all!"


    As foundation establishments of simr standing, the Qian Family evidently came with ill intentions, so Lin Shiming''s tone was naturaly unfriendly.


    No sooner had he spoken than the young Foundation Establishment cultivator''s face turned extremely ugly, poised to retort angrily when an old voice sounded,


    "Ziyun, refrain from being impolite!"


    Just then, Qian Bosheng finally emerged from the Spirit Boat, staring at Lin Shiming:


    "Young friend, your talent truly is astonishing!"


    That lightment sounded as though the earlier conduct was purely Qian Ziyun''s own doing.


    And he seemed to be congratting the Lin Family.


    In reality, the deeper meaning was mocking the Lin Family for not having Foundation Establishment cultivators and bringing over a newly advanced Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Daoist Qian, since you''vee all the way from Hetian County, and have been traveling by boat and carriage, would you like toe down and rest for a moment?" Lin Xianzhi didn''t let Lin Shiming continue off-topic.


    Thetter heard this and smiled brilliantly, then with a sweep of his great hand, he retracted the Spirit Boat,


    Revealing the figures of the Qian Family''s cultivators.


    Just like the Lin Family, they had one at thete Foundation Establishment stage, two at the early Foundation Establishment stage, and two at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    Their strength was almost no different from the Lin Family''s.


    This was agreed upon when the Qian Family had spent Spirit Stones to purchase the form for the Foundation Establishment Pill.


    Afterward, Lin Xianzhi also made a grand gesture and collected the Spirit Boat.


    Lin Shiming, on the other hand, was not looking at the young and vigorous early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivator but was instead drawn to a thick-browed Cultivator with an indifferent face.


    This Cultivator''s temperament and character reminded him a lot of Lin Shiming.


    Compared to the pretentious Qian Ziyun, this Cultivator exerted more pressure on him, with more Evil Qi, and he probably had a lot of blood on his hands.


    "Daoist Lin, it''s gettingte, and to avoid any unforeseenplications, why don''t we set off now?" Qian Bosheng nced at the sky and then looked in the direction of Qingxuan City to the south.


    "Let''s get moving then, this matter cannot be dyed!" Lin Xianzhi nodded in agreement.


    Immediately, he released the Spirit Boat and the Lin Family members boarded it with their swords, taking the lead toward the deeper regions of the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    The Qian Family members also boarded their Spirit Boat almost at the same time, closely following behind.


    As soon as he got on the Spirit Boat, Lin Houyong began to pass messages to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, among the Qian Family''s people, pay more attention to that indifferent-faced Cultivator Qian Zichu. He''s a Foundation Establishment Body Cultivator who has a record of tearing apart his peers in battle, and even though Qian Ziyun is rtively new having established his Foundation in thest decade, he should not be underestimated either!"


    ...


    Lin Houyong continuously introduced them to Lin Shiming, who wasmitting everything to memory.


    Knowing both your allies and enemies is essential, so you''re not harmed at a critical moment.


    "Prepare for battle!"


    Suddenly, Lin Xianzhi spoke up, and both Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong became instantly alert.


    The Qian Family reacted very quickly as well.


    In the next moment, six giant birds appeared in front of them, spreading their wings and swooping in.


    The giant birds were a brilliant red, their feathers like zing mes. Three of them headed for the Lin Family, and three headed for the Qian Family.


    "It''s the Fire Cloud Birds!" Lin Houyong''s expression turned serious.


    These Fire Cloud Birds were Third Rank Fire Attribute Demonic Beasts. Though only at the early stage of the Third Rank, with their mastery of mes, they posed a threat to many Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    Lin Shiming unleashed the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword, but at the moment, his Spirit tform nurtured Nine Formation Swords, so the True Yuan he could utilize was not much, and it was even less than one-tenth of his original strength.


    As a result, when his Intermediate Grade Third Rank Spirit Sword shed out, its power was mediocre.


    Compared to the shes from the Inferior Grade Third Rank Magical Sword by Lin Houyong beside him, it was undoubtedlycking.


    Together, their sword strikes barely injured the wings of two of the Fire Cloud Birds.


    The three Fire Cloud Birds immediately opened their giant beaks, and three massive True Yuan fireballs headed straight for the Lin Family''s Spirit Boat.


    Lin Xianzhi, frowning, nced at Lin Shiming but said nothing, simply wielding his Green Lotus with a swing of his sword.


    With this swing, the sword light ovepped with shadows, and countless Green Lotuses appeared, and the Sword Qi surged across a thousand miles.


    With a single strike, he killed all three Fire Cloud Birds.


    "Thank you, Uncle Seven Ancestors!" Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong both thanked Lin Xianzhi.


    Meanwhile, Qian Ziyun, with a smirk on his face, dashed out alone and took out a zing g.


    With a wave in the air, he absorbed all the fireballs from the three Fire Cloud Birds.


    Then with another wave of the zing g artifact, the fireballs turned into even hotter Fire Snakes, which devoured the Fire Cloud Birds.


    Qian Ziyun''s strength was clearly exceptional, but the three Fire Cloud Birds were no ordinary beasts, and they shattered the Fire Snakes with their giant beaks.


    At this moment on the Spirit Boat, Qian Zichu had disappeared without a trace, and when he reappeared, he was already near the Fire Cloud Birds. He held an Intermediate Grade Foundation Establishment Spirit Knife, attacking in a manner akin to mundane techniques.


    He shed at the Fire Cloud Birds with simple knife moves, but under terrifying speed and an indescribable charisma, one of the birds was directly beheaded.


    Then, working together, they killed the remaining two Fire Cloud Birds in just a few breaths.


    As soon as the battle ended, Qian Ziyun looked over at Lin Shiming with a disdainful gaze, his lips curling into a slight sneer full of mockery.

 Chapter 105 Going in Circles

    The encounter with the Fire Cloud Bird had not dyed the progress of the spirit boats from the two families as they continued to soar through the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    The Qian Family, too, took on a more rxed demeanor.


    Having just experienced a breakthrough, it was all too normal for the Foundation Establishment True Yuan to be insufficient.


    In fact, a newly advanced Foundation Establishment cultivator wouldn''t be much stronger than one in the Qi Refinement Realm, just as the Huang Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivator had been in by thebined efforts of the Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family using formation talismans and magic artifacts.


    Now, Lin Shiming himself had be one of those cultivators, albeit one who employed an intermediate grade third rank magic artifact.


    In the eyes of Qian Ziyun, this elicited a sneer; the mancked the talent and yet dared to put on airs, even more than himself!


    Though Lin Houyong was a slightly better case than Lin Shiming, to the Qian Family, it was still inconsequential.


    And so, the spirit boats of the two families flew onward across the Qingyun Mountain Range for several more days.


    During that time, they encountered Demonic Beasts at the Foundation Establishment level on several asions and even saw, from a great distance, a Purple Mansion Great Demon locked inbat.


    They promptly fled, relying on the advantage of their spirit boats to make a swift escape.


    Then, one day, Qian Bosheng could no longer contain himself and looked over at Lin Xianzhi.


    "Daoist Lin, we have been circling around for nearly ten days now. If you still harbor doubts, can you not even trust in the oath to the Heavenly Dao?"


    "The path is indeed as such. Otherwise, encountering a Winged Purple Mansion Great Demon would leave both our families without any chance of survival," Lin Xianzhi responded indifferently, then continued to steer the spirit boat forward.


    Lin Xianzhi''s answer left everyone from the Qian Family simmering with frustration, yet they were unable to do anything to Lin Xianzhi.


    Unnoticed by the others, Lin Xianzhi''s eyebrows rxed, seemingly confirming that no one else was there, before he continued to search for a new direction to head in.


    Five days passed in this manner.


    Amidst the Qian Family''s growing impatience, the spirit boats of both families finally came to a halt above a vast sea of bamboo.


    The bamboo here was even taller and sturdier than that of the bamboo in Xing County of the Lin Family, resembling soaring green pines piercing the clouds.


    The leaves of the bamboo were broad and massive, almost the size of leaves used for wrapping rice dumplings.


    "We have arrived below!"


    As Lin Xianzhi spoke up, cultivators from both families released their Divine Senses to probe beneath them, and Lin Shiming was no exception.


    Below the bamboo sea was a Spirit Vein, hence within the bamboo sea, one could vaguely make out some Demonic Beasts, but the majority were merely second rank Demonic Beasts,pletely negligible to the cultivators.


    A sweep of their Divine Senses immediately caused everyone''s expressions to turn unsightly, especially that of Qian Bosheng who, in that moment, felt as if Lin Xianzhi was toying with them.


    However, the next moment saw Lin Xianzhi manifest a circr magic disk in his hand, which, upon being activated, emitted a profusion of Spirit Light.


    At the same time, the ground below the bamboo sea began to tremble, and to everyone''s surprise, a mortal mechanism appeared, revealing an exceedingly long underground tunnel with an end leading to the unknown.


    Only then did the cultivators realize that this ce was controlled by a mortal mechanism linked to an inferior grade second rank Spiritual Vein.


    Forming a passage through the operation of the magic disk.


    The cultivators had naturally been focused on formations and the strength of spiritual energy, not expecting that there would be a mortal trap involved.


    Even Lin Shiming was slightly astounded. His Divine Sense continued to delve down the tunnel, only to find, yet again, that he couldn''t reach the end of the tunnel with his sense. It should be noted that his Divine Sense had already been much stronger than that of ordinary cultivators due to his consumption of Awakening Spirit Flower.


    After his breakthrough to Foundation Establishment, his Divine Sense had significantly increased, yet it still was not enough to probe the entirety of this Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, which appeared to be immeasurably deep!


    The Qian Family didn''t move, not even disembarking from their spirit boat. Believing and seeing was one thing, but such a narrow tunnel was another story altogether.


    Lin Xianzhi did not pay attention to the actions of the Qian Family, leading the other four members of the Lin Family swiftly into the tunnel.


    They delved with a single-minded focus towards the depths.


    The five moved with extreme speed, and after the Lin Family members had gone in, the Qian Family members also followed suit.


    Thetter group of five maintained a distance of one thousand meters from the Lin Family members.


    In this manner, after the tunnel extended tens of thousands of meters, it suddenly opened up into a vast and magical underground world.


    This was a hollow underground world, immensely spacious, and fitted with an array of Moonlight Stones overhead, making the visibility nearly indistinguishable from the outside world.


    Soon the group found the spirit fields, the Spiritual Medicine Garden, the training grounds¡ªbuildings of some families were almost everywhere, albeit with many copsed ruins scattered about.


    Despite the deste scene of ruins, theyout and traces left no doubt in everyone''s minds that a Purple Mansion Family had once existed here.


    In the center of the buildingplex, there was a huge cave mansion with the words "Mo Yun Fu" inscribed on it, written with a flourish that seemed profound and mysterious at a nce, giving rise to an overwhelming sense of insignificance and shame.


    The strength of the Dao contained within those three characters, Lin Shiming had only seen something simr at the Qingxuan Sect and truly felt it only on Qingxuan Sect''s Ascending Immortal Ladder.


    "That must be the final Formation!" All the spiritual energy of the entire world was concentrated there at the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, enveloped by a massive Defensive Array.


    The spiritual energy of this Spirit Vein was clearly that of a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, paired with a Fourth Rank Array. Even without anyone to control it, grinding it down would still require six Foundation Establishment Cultivators continuously using their True Yuan to wear it down.


    This was also why the Huang Family was so desperate to find the Illusionary Heart Grass to concoct Foundation Establishment Pills and forge new Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    At that moment, the Qian Family members also appeared in the underground world, looking around in surprise for a good while.


    The so-called Purple Mansion Cave Mansion was indeed as legendary as its reputation.


    At the same time, their gaze also fell instantly on the threerge characters of "Mo Yun Fu."


    A Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, even for the Purple Mansion Family, would invoke greed, not to mention the treasures left behind by Purple Mansion Cultivators.


    "Daoist Qian, this is the Defensive Array of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion. Breaking the array requires six Foundation Establishment Cultivators to wear down the Formation and enter!" Lin Xianzhi spoke calmly.


    Qian Bosheng extended his Divine Sense towards "Mo Yun Fu" and then nodded in response to Lin Xianzhi.


    "There''s no time to lose, let''s break the Formation!"


    "There''s no need to rush, Daoist Qian. This ce is extremely hidden and there''s no risk of exposure. It would be better to fully restore True Yuan before breaking the Formation!" Lin Xianzhi shook his head and then suggested that Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyong should recover first.


    "Dys could lead toplications, Fellow Daoists. It''s better to push through and break the Formation first!" Qian Bosheng insisted, frowning and clearly somewhat dissatisfied.


    His insistent words were obviously directed at Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong.


    The two definitely intended to restore their True Yuan, particrly Lin Shiming, whose Nine Swords Formation constantly consumed his True Yuan as it was being refined within him. At this moment, he was the one whose True Yuan was the most depleted.


    "In that case, I have two bottles of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk here. Why not use them to restore True Yuan for the two talented nephews?"


    Qian Bosheng clearly couldn''t wait any longer. He produced two Pill Bottles from his hand, and within those bottles were filled with Hundred-Year Spirit Milk.


    Just one drop of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk could restore all the Spiritual Energy of a Qi Cultivator, and naturally, it could also aid a Foundation Establishment Cultivator in restoring True Yuan. However, its effect was much lesspared to that on Qi Cultivators.


    Yet a whole bottle would enable Lin Shiming to fully recover his True Yuan within half an hour.


    Seeing this, both of them epted the bottles directly under the meaningful nce from Lin Xianzhi.

 Chapter 106 A Shocking Turn of Events

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    Outside of Moyaofu, two different caves had been opened, one upied by the Lin Family and the other used by the Qian Family.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong of the Lin Family needed to recover their True Yuan, and Lin Xianzhi naturally became their protector.


    The cultivators of the Qian Family were quite active, constantly searching around the caves; however, the vicinity had already been scoured by the Huang Family, so much so that even digging three feet into the ground would be an understatement.


    Apart from a few spiritual medicine seedlings found in the Spiritual Medicine Garden, nothing else was obtained.


    Inside the cave, Lin Shiming was hurriedly refining the Nine Swords Formation, feeling a premonition that the Qian Family might wage a full-blown conflict over the final treasure.


    Treasures tempt hearts, especially those of the Purple Mansion caliber. The Qian Family might truly make a move in secret to guard this secret.


    What he had to do was at the very least suppress Qian Zichu, then free up his hands to help Lin Houyong.


    Speaking of his True Yuan, he had lost quite a lot, less than one third remaining, and that was only because he deliberately controlled the pace of the Formation Sword refinement.


    But now, the Qian Family had given a full bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk.


    He no longer cared about depletion and took out dozens of Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones to recover his True Yuan together.


    Once the limit on refining the Formation Swords was lifted, he only felt the True Yuan inside his body rapidly depleting.


    Within the Spirit tform and the heart of the Heavenly Wood, nine Spirit Swords emitted a purple misty Spirit Light, casting a purple aura that illuminated his organs.


    If an outsider were present, they would notice a faint purple Sword Qi emanating from his body.


    This purple Sword Qi was continuous and unending.


    Lin Shiming did not dare dy, immediately downed the entire bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, and began pinching the Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones, absorbing them rapidly.


    The Purple Wood Spirit Art at this moment also showed its great merit. The Profound Rank Superior Grade Wood Attribute Technique had an extremely terrifying absorption ability, and his True Yuan restored quickly.


    Together with the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, he actually achieved a bnce.


    Another two days passed!


    The people of the Qian Family outside had be impatient. At this time, Lin Houyong who was fully spirited had also finished his cultivation session but did not leave the cave; instead, he quietly waited for Lin Shiming.


    But in the next moment, Lin Houyong suddenly saw nine Spirit Swords fly out from Lin Shiming''s body, with purple light enveloping and Sword Qi crisscrossing.


    The nine Spirit Swords revolving around Lin Shiming hummed with the sound of sword cries.


    Following Lin Shiming''s hand seals, the nine swords of the formation flew up one after another, their sword light piercing the sky, terrifying to the extreme!


    Fortunately, they did not break through the istion Formation set up by Lin Xianzhi, or else the Qian Family outside would have surely broken in.


    "Retrieve!" Lin Shiming pointed out, and the nine Spirit Swords flew back one by one, returning to his body to continue refining in the Spirit tform.


    And Lin Houyong, in front of him, spoke with extreme joy:


    "Shiming, is this your true strength?" After Lin Houyong finished, his gaze darkened slightly; he hadn''t imagined that Lin Shiming would surpass him so quickly!


    But it was only for a moment before his expression returned to one of happiness.


    "Uncle Five praises me too much. Shiming has only made progress because of cultivating the Qingxuan Sect''s techniques!" Lin Shiming modestly replied, then bowed his thanks to his Uncle Five.


    "Also thank you, Uncle Five, for waiting for me here!"


    "Shiming, take this half bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk as well!" Lin Houyong then took out half a bottle of Spirit Milk, his True Yuan was not much depleted, so half a bottle was enough.


    Seeing Lin Shiming''s Spirit Swords this time, he finally understood why Lin Xianzhi''s sword stroke earlier was so unremarkable.


    It turned out that he had already started to contact the Spirit tform for refining instruments!


    Now, he was eagerly anticipating what expression would be on the faces of those two from the Qian Family when they incredulously find themselves suppressed by the Sword Array.


    Lin Shiming epted the half bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk and consumed it for refinement again.


    At this moment, his True Yuan was indeed not ample; taking this half bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk would allow him to recover half of his True Yuan.


    Fortunately, within the core of the Heavenly Wood, there was still double the amount of True Yuan.


    Half a day had passed when Lin Shiming finally emerged from the cave dwelling with Lin Houyong.


    Outside the cave dwelling, Lin Xianzhi held a Qinglian Magic Sword, facing the hostile expressions of Qian Bosheng, Qian Zichu, and Qian Ziyun.


    They were extremely dissatisfied with the Lin duo''s slow progress after obtaining the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk.


    "Daoist Lin, can we start now? Our Qian Family provided the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, and yet we have waited so long. We must be the first to choose the treasures!"


    "There''s no need to give in, we can afford to wait!" Lin Xianzhi tly refused. If there was only one item from the Purple Mansion, and the Qian Family chose first, what would happen if there was only one such spiritual object?


    One must know that the Lin Family once had cultivators from Purple Mansion, and apart from the Lin Family''s ancestral Profound Rank cultivation technique, no other Purple Mansion spiritual objects remained.


    "Let''s discuss the distribution after seeing the treasures. For now, let''s break the formation!"


    Although Qian Bosheng was burning with anger and his gaze grew even colder, he still held back and worked together with the Lin Family to open the formation.


    Without the six Foundation Establishment cultivators, anyone elseing would be a wasted effort!


    Soon, six Foundation Establishment cultivators, arranged in a hexagram, surrounded the Mysterious Cloud Mansion. Lin Xianzhi and Qian Bosheng took the lead by casting their Spirit Arts and attacking the formation.


    Immediately following, Lin Shiming and the other four alsounched their Spirit Arts.


    All six worked together to break the formation!


    Since it was a Fourth Rank Spirit Formation, it could only be worn down by thebined effort of six Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    As the six Foundation Establishment cultivators attacked, the formation around the Mysterious Cloud Mansion gradually weakened, while the earth below surged with spiritual energy to reinforce the formation.


    Butpared to the massive spiritual energy of the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, only a small part was channeled into the formation, after all, there was no one controlling it.


    Meanwhile, the system alert Lin Shiming had been anxiously waiting for finally sounded.


    He had actually been anticipating the alert for some time, as the treasure trove before him was from Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, which had even produced a Formation Artifact Manual that described heaven-defying formation artifact refining and alchemical secrets.


    The treasures inside would certainly be extraordinary.


    However, the alert that appeared caused Lin Shiming to feel a cold sweat breaking out on his back.


    At the same time, his mind began to spin rapidly.


    "Please be cautious of the Qian Family cultivator who is hiding their cultivation level, and pay attention to the Lingxi Bug on Qian Ziyun''s body!!"


    A cultivator hiding their cultivation level!


    The Lingxi Bug!


    Lin Shiming felt that the venture into the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion had instantly be fraught withplications and full of danger.


    But the members of the Qian Family had previously sworn oaths to the Heavenly Dao, so there couldn''t be any discrepancies in cultivation levels.


    Unless a member of the Qian Family could suppress their own realm and break through at a critical moment.


    Moreover, there was the Lingxi Bug.


    This Lingxi Bug had previously been concealed on his body, and even Lin Xianzhi, in theter stages of Foundation Establishment, wouldn''t detect it if he was not careful enough.


    And the owner of this bug was none other than Li Chengzhi of the Li Family!


    However, Lin Shiming did not believe that this was Li Chengzhi''s attempt to target Qian Ziyun alone, on the contrary, he thought of much more.


    The sudden merger of the Huang Family, Huangyun Qi''s desperate fight, the escape of an elder Qi Cultivation of the Huang Family!


    At this moment, Lin Shiming felt as if he was caught in the midst of a shocking scheme in which the Lin Family had be entangled.


    And the Qian Family, greedy as they were, had also been drawn into it.


    The Li Family intended to eliminate the Qian and Lin Family Foundation Establishment cultivators who posed a threat.


    Lin Shiming instantly transmitted a message to Lin Xianzhi, sending only one line.


    "Be careful of the Lingxi Bug!"


    With this warning, Lin Shiming clearly saw Lin Xianzhi''s body shudder slightly, his face a mixture of shock and disbelief.

 Chapter 107 The Support of the Seventh Great-Uncle

    Outside the Mo Yun Mansion, six people were still continuously releasing spirit arts, attacking the formation.


    Two days had passed since the initial attempt at breaking the formation, and by now, the formation''s glow had dimmed considerably.


    However, at this moment, the state of each cultivator varied. Lin Xianzhi and Qian Bosheng were clearly at ease, while Qian Zichu and Qian Ziyun were also not rxed, with sweat forming at their brows.


    The worst cases were Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong.


    Lin Houyong appeared pale, his True Yuan seemingly exhausted by the effort to break the formation.


    As for Lin Shiming, his condition was extremely poor, his body trembling incessantly, as if he could stop at any moment, which would mean failure in breaking the formation.


    "Truly waste of the Lin Family!" The voice of Qian Ziyun came through coldly.


    The expressions of the three from the Qian Family were not pleasant, having paid a lot, they would regard it as torture if the formation remained unbroken due to Lin Shiming''s failure, necessitating starting over.


    Lin Shiming did not respond, as if he were no longer capable of even replying.


    Qian Bosheng and Qian Ziyun then turned their gaze towards Lin Xianzhi.


    Thetter was still easy-going, as if Lin Shiming was not even a member of their Lin Family, or as if he simply did not care about whether the formation would break or not.


    Seeing this, the Qian Family members were furious, but eventually Qian Bosheng helplessly took out another bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk.


    They originally wanted to toss over True Essence Elixirs, but were extremely wary of them, fearing the other party would not consume them.


    On the contrary, the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk was pure, and any tampering would greatly diminish its spiritual energy.


    This was also the most trustworthy and could not be faked.


    "Thanks to all the fellow Daoists!" Lin Shiming said as the bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk was tossed to him.


    Discover more content at m,v l''e-NovelBin


    He immediately consumed it in a single gulp.


    At this point, he couldn''t care less about incurring jealousy; he needed to restore his True Yuan. If he couldn''t restore it to three times the amount, he at least needed to restore it to twice the original.


    After consuming the spirit milk, Lin Shiming once again spurred on his spells.


    But his spell power was forever only at the level of someone who had just reached Foundation Establishment.


    The Qian Family still harbored some doubt, but upon remembering that Lin Shiming was struggling even to cut down the Fire Cloud Bird, they ceased to concern themselves with him.


    It was just a pity for the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk.


    When tossing it to Lin Shiming, they also gave a bottle to Lin Houyong.


    The two of them restored their True Yuan and resumed breaking the formation.


    After another day passed, Lin Shiming obtained another bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk from the Qian Family.


    In between, Qian Bosheng repeatedly proposed that they retrieve the treasures first, but Lin Xianzhi rejected him time after time.


    He suggested that when the time came for Lin Shiming and the others to pick treasures, the Qian Family members could choose first.


    The careless demeanor of Lin Xianzhi infuriated Qian Bosheng, but there was nothing he could do.


    They could not afford to stop and could only look resentfully at Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    One was putting on an act, the otherpletely indifferent.


    After receiving another bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, Lin Shiming''s True Yuan was almost restored to two and a half times the original level.


    And it was at this time that, with a crisp sound, the formation shattered.


    Immediately after, the members of the Qian Family rushed into the Mo Yun Mansion, while Lin Xianzhi of the Lin Family did not move an inch.


    Lin Shiming was puzzled; this would mean handing all the treasures over to the Qian Family.


    After all, these were secret treasures and inheritances left by the Purple Mansion Family, along with a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, each item of extreme value.


    However, the next moment, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houshou took out arge number of formation gs.


    These array gs were clearly prepared in advance. Lin Houshou now also knew of the crisis the Lin Family was facing and was exceptionally cautious. He appeared to be muttering to himself as he ced one array g after another, exining their positions and the degree of True Yuan release as he went along.


    This scene shocked Lin Shiming to the core.


    They were modifying a Fourth Rank Formation!


    No wonder the Seventh Great-Uncle remained fearless!


    "Shiming, I found the method to arrange this Nine Elemental Profound Heavenly Formation in Huangyun Qi''s Storage Bag. I also had Hou Shou study it for a full seven years!"


    "It was only recently that I thought of simplifying the formation, which is also why we originally agreed to the Qian Family''s terms!"


    Seeing Lin Shiming''s confusion, Lin Xianzhi''s voice reached his ears.


    This made him realize that indeed, no old cultivator in the cultivation world was to be trifled with easily.


    The Qian Family hid their true cultivation techniques and levels!


    But the Lin Family, using the remaining formation foundation after breaking the original formation, arranged a simplified version of the Nine Elemental Profound Heavenly Formation.


    This Nine Elemental Profound Heavenly Formation was inferred by the Array Master and cast using spirit arts by Lin Xianzhi.


    Its principle was simr to the Formation Artifact Manual; both leveraged external forces to temporarily boost one''s skill level.


    Of course, this also involved ceaseless practice by the second elder and the seventh great uncle.


    Waiting for the Green Mystique Conference was just a front; perhaps practicing this formation was also a reason why Lin Xianzhi wanted to extend the time to explore the secrets of the mansion''s cave dwelling.


    After all, he hade to survey it seven years ago and had even brought Lin Houshou here several times over those seven years.


    Otherwise, they wouldn''t have been this proficient.


    The simplified Nine Elemental Profound Heavenly Formation was only of the level of a Third Rank Supreme Grade formation.


    But bear in mind, this was a Third Rank Supreme Grade grand formation supported by a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein. A formation controlled by someone is vastly different from one that isn''t!


    This is as if trying to breach the enemy''s Mountain Protection Array. Without absolute power to overwhelm, it would beughable.


    The formation was quicklypleted, and as thest spell was cast, the light shield reformed!


    Moreover, in the sky, nine kinds of weapons made from the spiritual energy of the Spirit Vein appeared.


    True Essence Sword, True Essence Spear, True Essence Axe, True Essence Hook, True Essence Halberd, True Essence Knife, True Essence Tower, True Essence Whip, True Essence Shield.


    A Nine Elemental Grand Array thatbines trapping, suppression, defense, and attack in one.


    At this moment, all nine magical artifacts were only of Third Rank Supreme Grade, while a trulyplete Nine Elemental Profound Heavenly Formation would consolidate legionnaire weapons equivalent to Fourth Rank Magical Treasures.


    Once the formation was arranged, the Qian Family members, who had just ransacked the ce, rushed out furiously.


    "Lin Xianzhi, hand over the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, or you can forget about leaving this ce!" Qian Bosheng roared. They had already collected the treasures.


    Including Purple Mansion cultivation techniques, secret Purple Mansion methods, even methods to refine Fourth Rank Magical Treasures, and actual Fourth Rank Purple Mansion Magical Treasures!


    Their gain was beyond expectation!


    They all joyfully epted these items, believing that the Lin Family was scared,


    knew their ce, but little did they know, as they were collecting the Spirit Vein, a formation had taken shape, not only covering the Spirit Vein but also beginning to expel them from the Mo Yun Mansion.


    "Oh, the same words go for you, leave behind all Purple Mansion secret manuals, along with a Purple Mansion treasure, and then you may leave!" Lin Xianzhi also spoke with a coldugh.


    The three men were instantly defiant, and they sneered.


    Their cultivation levels suddenly and eerily broke through; Qian Bosheng reached Foundation Establishment Perfection, Qian Ziyun and Qian Zichu both reached the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage.


    However, even with their formidable abilities, they could not resist being suppressed by the nine elemental legionnaire weapons.


    They were barely holding on when Qian Bosheng shouted out loud:


    "Lin Xianzhi, if you kill us, your Lin Family won''t live either. Our Qian Family''s old patriarch has already reached the half-step to the Purple Mansion Realm!"

 Chapter 108: Chapter 108 Threat Reversal

    Beneath the Mo Cloud Mansion, Lin Xianzhi did not stop his assault for a moment.


    The True Essence Bell pressed down, the True Essence Shield defended, and then with sabres, swords, halberds, axes, hooks, and whips he savagely attacked Qian Bosheng and the Qian siblings, Zichu and Ziyun.


    The former, with his Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivation level, could still withstand the attacks, especially since thetter two could only survive by staying behind Qian Bosheng.


    Otherwise, facing him alone, they likely wouldn''t withstand even a single sword strike.


    But because of this, the pressure on Qian Bosheng greatly increased, and in a moment it was like facing a Foundation Establishment perfection cultivator with infinite True Essence in a relentless barrage.


    "We are willing to offer Purple Mansion treasures, as well as Purple Mansion secret techniques!"


    In the end, Qian Bosheng couldn''t help but speak up, the fierceness in his eyes disappearing instantly.


    Shiming couldn''t help but admire Qian Bosheng, truly a centuries-old monster.


    From being arrogant and overbearing, to using power to oppress others, to finally begging for mercy and offering treasures, all in one go.


    Not a trace of embarrassment was seen.


    Of course, at this moment, Qian Bosheng''s heart was bleeding, full of regret.


    He should have realized something was amiss when Lin Xianzhi didn''t rush in ahead.


    But he waspletely duped by Lin Xianzhi, who did not give in even a little when he tested if he could acquire the treasures first.


    Even if Shimingcked True Essence, he wouldn''t let go of the treasure, so he was eager to get the treasure.


    Little did he know he fell into Lin Xianzhi''s trap.


    Associating this with the fact that the Qingxuan Assembly had already passed and Lin Xianzhi still wasn''t in a hurry, his dy earlier in exploring the mansion was not because he was distracted by the Assembly.


    He was preparing an array!


    Qian Bosheng was furious!


    To think he, in all his Foundation Establishment Perfection glory, would capsize in Lin Xianzhi''s hands.


    "We are willing to give two Magical Treasures, if not epted, I''d rather blow up the Storage Bag!"


    As Lin Xianzhi still didn''t cease his attack, Qian Bosheng resorted to threatening once again!


    At that moment, his face finally turned red, red with rage.


    And finally, Lin Xianzhi nodded his head.


    At this time, Qian Zichu and Qian Ziyun both let out a huge sigh of relief.


    Lin Xianzhi was indeed a madman!


    Unfazed by threats, undisturbed by greed, fortunately, Qian Bosheng exploited Lin Xianzhi''s coveting of Magical Treasures.


    Otherwise, they might not havested even a few minutes more.


    Qian Bosheng took out several Jade Slips, and two Magical Treasures shimmering with golden light.


    One of the treasures was a square golden brick, oddly shaped.


    But its aura was extremely strong, the Spirit Might of a Fourth Rank Magical Treasure, which brought immense pressure to everyone present even without anyone controlling it.


    The remaining Magical Treasure was an iron ring, choosing not to give Lin Xianzhi a sword-type attack Magical Treasure.


    Obviously, even if they had one, they were worried that Lin Xianzhi, if he broke through to be a Purple Mansion Sword Cultivator with a Magical Sword Treasure in hand, would leave them no chance to survive.


    Once the inspection of the two Magical Treasures waspleted, it was then the turn of the Jade Slips.


    After the Jade Slips satisfied Lin Xianzhi, the Nine Heavens Profound Heaven Formation was opened.


    The three from the Qian Family, along with the two Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators waiting outside, rushed frantically into the tunnel.


    They were leaving!


    Even though they gave Lin Family two Magical Treasures, they still obtained a Magical Treasure and copied a precious Jade Slip.


    These Jade Slips were the greatest wealth!


    Meanwhile, outside Mo Cloud Mansion, Lin Houyong and Lin Houshou and the others were still perplexed and puzzled, somewhat clueless about Lin Xianzhi''s actions!


    He could have easily killed for treasure, and the other''s bluster about blowing up the Storage Bag was a mere joke.


    However, they then realized that Lin Xianzhi''s expression was not one of joy but even more somber!


    His divine sense was quite far-reaching, and he had already sensed that the Li Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators had arrived, and there were many of them!


    Lin Xianzhi spoke again:


    "Continue setting up the formation. Hou Yong, you take control of this set of Third Rank formation. Shiming, you and I will jointly control the Nine Elemental Xuan Tian Formation. When the timees, we will look for an opportunity together!"


    "Hou Shou, Yu Qing, you two hide inside the cave dwelling. If it reallyes down to it, look for a chance to leave, to preserve the family... the legacy!"


    Lin Xianzhi''s expression was extremely grave, his words filled with undeniable resolve.


    But at this moment, the others also felt something was off.


    Someone took out an Earth Escape Talisman, but upon pping it down, there was not the slightest reaction.


    The dazzling spirit light faded, leaving his figure still in ce.


    Someone had activated a sealing formation!


    At this point, everyone''s heart sank, and they finally understood why Lin Xianzhi looked so worried and why he had let the Qian Family go.


    It was just to use them as pathfinders.


    The next moment, as expected!


    From a distance, there came a booming sound, the chirping of insects, and the crash of thunder!


    A rolling onught, waves of powerful spirit might spread out from the tunnels.


    There were shes of spirit light, sword qi!


    The Qian Family had been attacked!


    Lin Xianzhi instantly passed a jade slip to Lin Shiming. It recorded the differences between theplete and simplified versions of the Nine Elemental Xuan Tian Great Formation, as well as the methods of control.


    Immediately afterward, Lin Xianzhi also gave both Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong a bottle of Return Yuan Pills each.


    Return Yuan Pills are spirit pillsmonly used by Foundation Establishment cultivators to recover their True Yuan. One pill would cost several thousand Spirit Stones. In terms of restoring True Yuan, it was only stronger, not weaker than a bottle of Hundred-Year Spirit Milk for Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The two immediately took out a True Yuan Pill and held it in their mouths, ready to recover their True Yuan at any moment.


    Just as the group finished these preparations, Qian Bosheng, who had quickly fled earlier, returned abruptly. Behind him, Qian Ziyun was nowhere to be seen, leaving only Qian Zichu looking like a Foundation Establishment fiend with terrifying ferocity.


    The two kept retreating.


    And behind them, countless ck beetles flew towards them whilerge bolts of thunder crashed down. Additionally, a golden magical sword shed through the air towards them.


    The beetles unleashed terrifying ferocity, the thunder carried an astonishing pressure, and the sword qi lingered for a long time.


    The Lin Family was immensely shocked after witnessing this.


    Li Chengzhi, Li Chengli, Li Xiulei¡ªall had actuallye.


    Two at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, one at theplete stage of Foundation Establishment. These three had statuses in the Li Family second only to those in the Purple Mansion.


    And behind them, there were three more Li Family cultivators at the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Clearly, the Li Family had set a trap¡ªa trap meant to ensure a kill.


    "Daoist Lin, I must trouble you to make a move, otherwise both our families will be history!" At this moment, Qian Bosheng, in a very sorry state, with numerous sword wounds and covered in dirt, bore no resemnce to a cultivator at theplete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    At the same time, although also at theplete stage of Foundation Establishment, he had suffered greatly at the hands of Li Chengzhi.


    The Lin Family didn''t speak, but allowed the Qian Family toe to the front of the Lin Family''s defenses, the intention to defend together was clear.


    "Ridiculous to even ask for help, when you can hardly protect your own. Qian Bosheng, surrender the secret technique for concealing your family''s cultivation. Maybe then your Qian Family can be spared!" Li Chengli couldn''t help but ridicule with cold mockery.


    He then turned towards the Lin Family: "Of course, that doesn''t include your Lin Family!"


    Li Chengli''s expression was somewhat ferocious. Last time at the Xing County Square Market, he had developed a deep hatred for Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    But he couldn''t make a move with Xie An present!


    Apart from Li Chengli, Li Chengzhi also had a dark look in his eyes, sweeping them over Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming.


    Clearly, he was displeased about being tricked in Qingxuan City.


    Then, suddenly his gaze sharply intensified, evidently sensing the Foundation Establishment cultivation.


    "Tsk tsk, quite a talent!"


    Li Chengzhi licked his lips, with an evil smirk, his interest piqued.

 Chapter 109 Sword Array Exterminates Vermin

    Almost simultaneously with Li Chengzhi''s sinister smile, the ck insect cloud behind him also headed toward the Lin Family.


    With the emergence of this ck insect cloud, Lin Shiming''s expression grew even uglier.


    These ck insects, known as ck ant bugs, are ranked one hundredth in the list of demonic insects by martial cultivators.


    But don''t be fooled by their ranking, being lower than the six-winged mantis¡ªdue to their inexhaustible numbers, the ck ant bugs are even more terrifying to cultivators!


    Every ck ant bug is invulnerable to ordinary weapons, and not only are mundane armaments ineffective against them, but they can also consume spirit shields, and they are especially potent against Mountain Protection Arrays.


    "Don''t let these ck ant bugs get close!" Lin Shiming took the initiative to draw out his Purple Wood Sword!


    At this moment, without the need to nurture the formation swords, Lin Shiming''s True Yuan waspletely activated, instantly filling the area with purple light and crisscrossing sword Qi!


    One sword strike directly swept into the ck ant bug swarm! Continue reading at m|v-l''e -NovelBin


    Countless ck ant bugs died, but what''s terrifying is that both the sword Qi and the True Yuan sword light got devoured by the ck ant bugs.


    With their terrifying numbers, the True Yuan attached to his Purple Wood Sword would soon be nibbled away, and he would lose control of the sword.


    Lin Shiming hastily recalled his sword, looking somewhat anxious at this point.


    He then took out a Five Elements Tower and released a Five Elements Spell, which proved effective, but as the tower was only a second-rank supreme-grade magic artifact, not even a third-rank artifact, its effect was much weaker.


    As Lin Shiming sprang into action, an equally fierce battle broke out on another front.


    Lin Xianzhi was controlling the Nine Elements Formation against Li Xiulei and Li Chengli; the former, a thunder cultivator, striking vigorously with pure Yang and unyielding energy, every st of thunder causing great damage to the formation.


    Meanwhile, thetter, Li Chengli''s swordsmanship was almost as good as Lin Xianzhi''s, also having grasped some Sword Intent, though not to the extent of Sword Light Differentiation.


    But what''s dreadful is that he possessed a third-rank supreme-grade magic sword.


    For a time, Qian Bosheng, who couldpletely suppress a Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator, now found it strenuous to hold back two Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators.


    Elsewhere, Qian Bosheng facing Li Chengzhi was simrly under great strain, continuously seeking aid from Lin Xianzhi.


    "Daoist Lin, please assist me, there will be a hefty rewardter!"


    In the end, Lin Xianzhi drew a single True Essence Axe from the nine artifacts, using it to assist Qian Bosheng on the side.


    The pinnacle battle of the Foundation Establishment stage had erupted, and within the early Foundation Establishment stage, the Li Family had sent only three individuals, all at the middle stage. Not only were these three well-equipped, but they also brought with them three third-rank Demonic Beasts.


    Qian Zichu, who Lin Shiming regarded with caution, proved his mettle by single-handedly fighting against three third-rank Foundation Establishment Demonic Beasts and facing off against a Li Family body cultivator.


    Despite fighting four at once and sustaining continuous injuries, his offensive was ferocious, attacking with wounds and looking like a humanoid Demonic Beast.


    He even forced the Li Family cultivators to give way somewhat.


    On the Lin Family side, Lin Houyong faced off against a Taoist Robe Foundation Establishment Cultivator from the Li Family.


    The remaining one charged at Lin Shiming.


    The ck ant bugs aimed for the spirit shield of the Nine Profound Heavenly Array and breaking the formation''s foundation.


    If they could kill Lin Shiming, or let the Spirit Insects break through the formation, they could rapidly allow Li Chengli and Li Xiulei to cut down Lin Xianzhi and seize victory.


    At this time, Lin Shiming''splexion turned even more somber, as the dominance and horrifying numbers of the ck ant bugs made them exceedingly troublesome to handle, and now he also faced a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator.


    Seeing this, he took out seeds and scattered them fiercely, and the next moment, ten Snake Vine Flowers shot up, followed by countless Iron Thornwoods.


    Apanied by the sound of earth breaking, the next instant, the entire underground stone hall was overtaken by vines and tendrils.


    The ten Snake Vine Flowers, though just second-rank supreme-grade magic artifacts, were slow in entangling the Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Thetter easily dodged with a flicker, avoiding them entirely.


    "Using Qi Cultivation methods in a fight between Foundation Establishment cultivators, isn''t thatughable?"


    Thetter scoffed with disdain, also drawing a set of magic swords. These three swords formed a third-rank intermediate-grade set: a mother sword and two child swords, soaring into the sky.


    The sword light shone brightly, all ten Snake Vine Flowers were cut in half at the waist, and vast expanses of Iron Thornwood were also cleared by the sword''s children, not even allowing the Iron Thorns to release.


    Moreover, thest mother sword shot towards Lin Shiming, while another child sword went towards Lin Shiming''s Purple Wood Sword.


    Unable to wield the Purple Wood Sword, the ck ants ignored the Purple Thorn Wood and buzzed towards the formation.


    Seeing that Lin Shiming didn''t even have a defensive Third-Rank magic artifact, the cultivator in the Taoist robe from the Li Family had a mocking look in his eyes, as if he had already foreseen Lin Shiming being cut from head to body.


    But in the next moment, unexpectedly, nine green Spirit Swords appeared out of the shattered Iron Thornwood!


    They were the Formation Swords released by Lin Shiming together with the child swords, which after sessfully confusing the line of sight, took their positions!


    The Formation Swords nearly formed a nonagon, surrounding the ck ants.


    Sword Qi crisscrossed in every direction, instantly decimating arge number of the ck ants.


    The remaining ck ants still had a fearsome presence, devouring the sword light and sword qi, stepping on the carcasses of their kin as they flew in, but unlike other sword techniques.


    Lin Shiming''s technique was a Secret Sword Formation, with the Wood Attribute''s endless vitality fully showcased.


    The number of ck ants visibly decreased.


    While the Sword Array still shone brightly, the sword qi unrelenting!


    And the two child swords were also trapped within, allowing Lin Shiming''s Purple Wood Sword to instantly return to his side to continue the confrontation with the mother sword.


    The expression of the Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Li Family changed in an instant, turning exceedingly ugly.


    Not only had the ck ants failed to break the formation, but they were also destroyed at a terrifying speed, causing his hair to stand on end. Even if he won the battle, he would have to face Li Chengzhi''s wrath!


    His expression instantly turned extremely furious!


    "You brat, dare to y tricks and schemes, now you die!"


    With his furious shout, the mother sword emitted an eye-catching sword light, and in the next instant, terrifyingly, the two child swords vanished into thin air, reappearing on either side of the mother sword!


    All three swords shot towards Lin Shiming!


    This attack exhausted the Foundation Establishment cultivator''s True Yuan, with sword light stretching for tens of miles, all to ensure a kill!


    The powerful sword light filled the Li Family cultivator with confidence, but at that moment, to his disbelief, he saw a mocking smile on Lin Shiming''s lips!


    Wasn''t that the very expression he had when he was certain of his kill?


    But what did he have to be confident about?


    In the next moment, he saw no more. In the void, a transparent Spirit Light flickered, sending out an invisible ripple, and almost in front of the Li Family cultivator''s face, a gigantic Golden Mantid de fell silently.


    The Spirit Shield was useless, the Spirit Shield shattered!


    The automatically defensive Spirit Shield proved futile, the Spirit Shield was shed away!


    His gaze still lingered on the moment just past, but his head soared high without response!


    Assassination sessful!


    The Golden Mantid de once again returned to the void!


    But Lin Shiming was not pleased, for the mother and child swords were still there, merely uncontrolled now that the Purple Wood Sword had returned.


    By leaning to the side and delivering a sh, he managed to knock all three Spirit Swords off course, leaving a thirty-meter deep Sword Dao fissure behind!


    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation ground the remaining ck ants into dust!


    The nine Formation Swords flew back one by one. Although a significant amount of True Yuan was lost, the Formation was preserved, which allowed him to heave a sigh of relief.


    He then collected the Storage Bag and the mother and child swords from thest name Li, continuing to kill towards the Foundation Establishment cultivator where Lin Houyong was.

 Chapter 110 White Hair Once More

    Lin Houyong was in control of a defense and offense restraining formation, making it so that even the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators of the Li Family struggled to prate it for a while.


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming arrive, the Foundation Establishment cultivators of the Li Family were greatly startled, their faces filled with confusion, wondering how an Early Stage Foundation Establishment could kill a Middle Stage Foundation Establishment, and still have ck ants.


    At this moment, even Lin Houyong, who was inside the formation, was somewhat dumbfounded!


    Wasn''t Lin Shiming just someone who had just broken through to Foundation Establishment, with very few Third Rank magic artifacts?


    However, surprise aside, Lin Houyong reacted quickly, instantly abandoning defense and going straight on the offensive.


    Countless small hills of Spiritual Power smashed towards the Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Li Family.


    The Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Li Family was also tense and serious, constantly waving his hands.


    The next moment, a total of one hundred and eight Spirit Swords took flight.


    The dazzling sword lights nearly obscured the sun, with the Sword Qi surging like a tide.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was somewhat surprised, but in the next moment, with his Divine Sense, he realized that among these one hundred and eight swords, only eight were Third Rank magic artifacts, and the rest were Second Rank.


    Even so, their power was definitely not ordinary, bringing him significant pressure!


    He raised his hand, and nine Wood Attribute Flying Swords flew out, directly forming the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation!


    This time, the nine Wood Attribute Formation Swords took a defensive posture, arranged in three rows!


    The Sword Qi also surged in waves, and the Wood Attribute Sword Qi had an even better aspect, that being its endless vitality!


    The two Sword Arrays soon collided, with the shing Sword Qi more intense than that of sabers and swords, as though even the air would be cut apart, and the residual Sword Qi ravaged all around!


    At this moment, a stalemate was formed!


    But bear in mind, Lin Shiming was only at the Early Stage Foundation Establishment, whereas his opponent was in the Middle Stage. Lin Shiming had nine Third Rank Early Stage magic swords.


    Meanwhile, the Li Family cultivator had not only three Third Rank Intermediate Grade swords but also five Third Rank Intermediate Grade, and a hundred Second Rank Supreme Grade swords!


    Yet, the might of the sword sea was staunchly blocked by Lin Shiming!


    "You''re using the Purple Wood Heart Sutra of the Qingxuan Sect!" The Li Family cultivator instantly recognized Lin Shiming''s Sword Array.


    At the same time, a murderous intent erupted in his eyes!


    Secretly, however, he transmitted a message to someone in the distance!


    Soon after, two Third Rank Demonic Beasts were seen charging towards the area.


    They had fled from Qian Zichu''s battlefield, where thetter was already bloodied and still struggling like a cornered beast, clearly not requiring the assistance of four Foundation Establishmentbatants.


    One of them was a Third Rank Bloodthirsty Tiger, and the other a pure-blooded Barbaric Bull!


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    As soon as the two Demonic Beasts appeared, they charged directly at Lin Shiming outside the formation.


    "Shiming, I''ll handle these two beasts. Focus on killing him!" Lin Houyong instantly spoke up.


    As both beasts were at the Early Stage Third Rank, their strength naturally couldn''tpare to that of the Li surnamed Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Upon seeing this, Lin Shiming also breathed a sigh of relief and then once again released the Purple Wood Swords.


    And as the Purple Wood Swords were released, the opposing Li surnamed Foundation Establishment cultivator actually pulled out a Spirit Talisman.


    After tearing the talisman out of thin air, it transformed into a Third Rank Bloodthirsty Tiger!


    Controlling the one hundred and eight swords, he clearly had no spare mental strength to manipte new magic artifacts and could only take out a beast talisman to meet Lin Shiming''s Purple Wood Swords.


    And the one hundred and eight swords once again turned into a sea of swords, forming yet another Sword Array!


    Lin Shiming was also focused and frowning¡ªdefending against the previous sea of swords had been difficult for him, and this time with the Sword Array, he wasn''t certain he could hold up.


    The previously mentioned one hundred and eight swords suddenly shone brightly in the sky, forming a giant sword nearly thirty measures long in the sky, with the radiance of the sword stretching dozens of measures.


    With one sh, Lin Shiming felt an overwhelming momentum as though it was not just an enemy trying to kill him, but the heavens delivering punishment!


    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation emphasized more on the formation itself and the enduring vitality of the Wood Attribute, but under the unparalleled assault, it naturally seemed somewhat inferior.


    But at that moment, with no other choice, Lin Shiming could only turn his Sword Array into a giant sword as well.


    However, its might was iparable to that of his opponent''s!


    The giant sword fell, and at this moment, Lin Shiming''s sword array was directly disrupted!


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to take out several supreme grade magic artifacts, throwing them out to trigger self-destruction.


    Then he called back the Purple Wood Sword to continue resisting the giant sword, his body rapidly retreating.


    "A mere glimmer!" the Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator sneered.


    Wood attribute is after all wood attribute, how could your wood attribute go against the grain?


    But the next moment, he saw Lin Shiming retreating and the corner of his mouth couldn''t help but curl up.


    He saw the same scene that had happened to the previous Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    His reaction was extremely quick, his divine sense solidifying to sweep around when he suddenly spotted a transparent mantis flying towards him.


    The Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator felt an urgent dread, hastily pulling out more than ten Spirit Talismans, amongst them several that were of the third rank.


    Finally, the mantis de appeared, like the scythe of the Grim Reaper, apanied by a dazzling golden light!


    One Spirit Shield after another shattered!


    And in the next moment, the Li Family cultivator, albeit with extreme reluctance, pped down another Spirit Talisman.


    His figure instantly vanished from the spot, only to appear a hundred meters away, the Li Family cultivator.


    He was gasping for air, breathsing inrge gulps!


    In his eyes looking towards Lin Shiming, there was also an exceptional respect.


    However, before he could continue his attack, he saw a vague silver light sh by.


    It struck his neck, forming a knot!


    The Li named Foundation Establishment met his death once more!


    The silver light flew back, and it was indeed Lin Shiming''s Gold-Threaded Silver Cord, striking in a surprise attack with a supreme grade magic artifact at the moment the Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator had exhausted his resources, his old strength spent and new strength not yet emerged¡ªa sessful single strike.


    The sword array in the sky also buzzed and disintegrated instantly, turning into one hundred and eight Spirit Swords, falling like rain.


    However, just at this moment, as Lin Shiming was gathering up the Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator''s Storage Bag and Spirit Swords, and nning to assist Lin Houyong at the same time,


    suddenly, dark clouds enveloped the sky above.


    The next moment, lightning flickered, and thunderbolts furiously smashed towards Lin Shiming.


    In this moment, it was Li Xiulei in the sky, breaking free from the Lin Family''s Nine Profound Heavenly Great Formation, boldly making his move.


    A head full of thunder, dazzling lightning, like a death sentence announced.


    Lin Shiming wanted to dodge, but found there was nowhere to dodge!


    He could only control the Purple Wood Sword and call back the Golden Winged Mantis!


    Then, in his hands, he took out several third-rank Spirit Talismans!


    Bracing himself for a direct hit!


    The Earth Escape Talisman was useless, the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was destroyed, and couldn''t be used for a short time.


    At this moment, he realized that a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage could also run out of strength...


    But the anticipated thunderbolts didn''te crashing down, rather a True Essence Shield appeared above him, absorbing all the thunderbolts.


    "Shiming, get into the formation!"


    As Lin Xianzhi''s voice fell, he realized that the other party was transmitting his voice from a distance.


    Lin Shiming didn''t hesitate, moving to rush into the formation; staying any longer here was simply seeking death.


    Once inside the formation, he was shocked to find his Seventh Great Uncle facing the piercing cold wind in the air.


    One Spirit Art after another furiouslyunched, resisting the enemy, and behind him, that ck hair,


    at this moment, once again turned white!


    ck hair turning to white, at this moment it was as if Lin Shiming saw Lin Xianzhi for the first time!

 Chapter 111: Chapter 111 Golden Core Talisman

    "Shiming, there''s no need to be surprised. Today, your Seventh Great-Uncle will show you what a true swordsman is, and what it means for Sword Light to take shape."


    Lin Xianzhi threw a formation g to Lin Shiming, preparing to hand over the active control of the formation amidst Lin Shiming''s bewildered gaze.


    But Lin Shiming did not want it to be so; even with him controlling the formation, he could at most resist Li Xiulei''s attacks. After all, his True Yuan strength was far inferior to Lin Xianzhi''s.


    And even so, it would still be perilous!


    He simply couldn''t hold off Li Xiulei for long.


    And clearly, Lin Xianzhi was nning to take on Li Chengli, and even withstand Li Chengzhi, all by himself.


    Before entering the formation, he saw Qian Bosheng already beaten to the point of vomiting three liters of blood, his strength reduced to a mere fraction of what it once was¡ªhis Foundation Establishment Great Perfection evidently had some discrepancy.


    It might even turn into a three-on-one situation eventually!


    However, without giving Lin Shiming any chance to choose, Lin Xianzhi dropped the formation g into Lin Shiming''s hands.


    It was clear he had relinquished control of the formation, unless Lin Shiming was willing to let Lin Xianzhi immediately face the three from the Li Family alone.


    But that was impossible, and unrealistic.


    Lin Shiming took over the formation, his True Yuan flowing toward the formation g, casting multiple Spirit Arts.


    Although there was still support from the Spirit Vein, in his hands, the nine True Yuan magic artifacts instantly shrunk by half, their power reduced by sixty to seventy percent.


    From a distance, Qian Bosheng, who had already been beaten to the point of vomiting blood incessantly and obviously affected by a severe poison, suddenly called out:


    "Daoist Lin, you can''t withdraw the formation! I have Hundred-Year Spirit Milk here, even Thousand-Year Spirit Milk!"


    To Qian Bosheng at this moment, the Lin Family was like thest straw that might save his life!


    But obviously, his cries were futile, as Lin Xianzhi soared out. In his hands, the Qinglian Sword had be the Green Gold Dual Swords.


    His entire body''s Spiritual Power also began to disy attributes of both wood and metal!


    His face, too, began to wrinkle, aging rapidly!


    "Lin Xianzhi, you really are cultivating the Renshui Geng Metal Art!" Li Chengli couldn''t help but sneer.


    The true nature of the Qingxuan Sect''s Renshui Geng Metal Art was obviously well-known to them!


    And at that moment, Lin Shiming also confirmed something in his heart.


    The w in his Seventh Great-Uncle''s cultivation technique was likely that when fully unleashed, it consumed lifespan!


    A life-shortening cultivation technique!


    This made Lin Shiming break out in a cold sweat as well. If not for the system alert, he would never have known what ws his cultivation technique might have!


    Lin Xianzhi made his move. In the void, the de light of the two swords soared out like a golden lotus blooming.


    There was no Sword Qi, no sword light.


    It was as if it was just an ordinary, run-of-the-mill lotus transformation spell.


    Yet, the next moment caused both Li Xiulei and Li Chengli''s faces to drastically change.


    One of them brought out a thunder drum magic artifact, only to have a bucket-sized golden lightning bolt strike towards the golden lotus.


    Water and electricity fused, crackling with countless shes of lightning, almost boiling the true water element.


    But the very next moment, strands of Sword Qi burst forth, slicing the lightning into nothingness.


    The lightning disappeared without a sound.


    Far away, Li Chengli also took out a Supreme Grade magical sword, and that wasn''t all. He pulled out a ck elixir pill.


    After swallowing it, his body instantly started to convulse, his golden Spiritual Energy instantly turning into rolling ck aura.


    "Demon cultivators, the people of the Li Family are actually demon cultivators!"


    Everyone was shocked to the core.


    Even Lin Xianzhi was taken aback; he hadn''t expected that within their Yunzhou''s Purple Mansion Family, there would actually be a family of demon cultivators.


    The Torrential Demon Sword was swung, unleashing a sea of blood into the air.


    The blood-red Heavy Sword fell, and a tide of Xue Sha surged into the golden lotus.


    But what greatly shocked Li Chengli was that Lin Xianzhi''s Golden Lotus suddenly exploded.


    It then transformed into streaks of golden lotus petals that flew towards Li Chengli and Li Xiulei.


    The two were instantly stupefied and dumbfounded, unable to believe that their Demon Sword had failed to break through Lin Xianzhi''s attack.


    "A hundred years of sword practice, I understand the sword is everywhere. Twenty years contemting the lotus, I''ve realized that the Lotus Sword coexists; the lotus can be the sword, and the sword can be the lotus! Thirty years with the lotus, one hundred and thirty years of sword practice, now without sword or lotus, yet the lotus is everywhere!"


    "With such swordy, it is useless even if you are Demon Cultivators!"


    Lin Xianzhi spoke with an overwhelming presence, his increasingly pale crane hair and pping robes adding to his aura of a Sword Immortal.


    He didn''t look at the two men behind him but rather at Lin Shiming, as if saying, "Watch closely!"


    "Useless!" Seeing Li Chengli and Li Xiulei facing a threat from afar.


    Li Chengzhi could no longer stand by; suddenly a pair of Demon Wings appeared behind him.


    Everyone felt a sudden surge of a bloody, stench-filled wind permeating the entire underground pavilion, and in the next moment, a blood light flew over.


    He abandoned Qian Bosheng and flew straight towards Lin Xianzhi.


    A ck giant de swung through the air, and immediately it split in two, then into three, and then into thousands!


    All the pieces of Lin Xianzhi''s Green Lotus Sword were blocked.


    The spreading Spirit Might annihted the remaining structures in the underground space, turning them to dust, and even the ground was stripped away to a depth of three feet.


    The formidable power caused Lin Shiming and the others to frown in astonishment.


    Lin Xianzhi was suddenly fighting together with the three from the Li Family¡ªLi Chengzhi, Li Chengli, and Li Xiulei.


    The sky seemed filled with endless Sword Qi, where every move and form turned into golden lotuses.


    As the battle raged on, Lin Xianzhi continually swallowed Elixir Pills to restore his strength, his white hair growing increasingly aged.


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    From a distance, Qian Bosheng immediately threw a small bottle to Lin Xianzhi, containing a single drop of Thousand-Year Spirit Milk.


    Just like the Hundred-Year Spirit Milk, only Thousand-Year Spirit Milk could instantly restore all the True Yuan for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    This kind of life-saving Spirit Milk hadn''t been sold in the markets of Qingxuan City for a hundred years; thest bottle of Thousand-Year Spirit Milk was sold for nearly a million Spirit Stones.


    After tossing the Spirit Bottle, Qian Bosheng eagerly transmitted a message to Lin Shiming.


    "Young friend Shiming, I have a tactic that can turn the tide; let me into the Formation!"


    Lin Shiming didn''t expect thetter would actually consider fleeing into the Formation instead of taking on the pressure and was immediately angered. How could he allow him into the Formation?


    But the next moment, Qian Bosheng charged straight towards the Formation.


    Lin Shiming wanted to block him but found Lin Xianzhi transmitting a message to him.


    Let him in.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming no longer resisted, opened up the Formation, and let the other in.


    "Young friend, protect me for the time it takes an incense stick to burn. Don''t let anyone interrupt me!"


    After speaking, Qian Bosheng took out an extremely precious grey talisman from his Storage Bag, which had a grey ruler embroidered on it.


    Lin Shiming was somewhat curious and wanted to inspect it, but Qian Bosheng immediately warned him:


    "Don''t use your Divine Sense; this is a Fifth Rank Golden Core Magical Treasure. Your Divine Sense can''t stand against it!"


    Qian Bosheng''s words made him jump with fright.


    No wonder thetter treasured it so much¡ªit was a Magical Treasure of a Fifth Rank Golden Core Cultivator.


    This kind of Magical Treasure was even more advanced than the Purple Mansion Magical Treasures. It contained thirty percent of the might of a real Fifth Rank Golden Core Magical Treasure.


    Even though it was just thirty percent, its power was far beyond the resistance of a Foundation Establishment cultivator. Of course, its drawback was that it took a long time to activate.


    And the origins of this Magical Treasure were evidently from within this Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    No wonder he was so decisive in using treasures to ransom himself.


    With this Magical Treasure, the Qian Family would not be at a loss!

 Chapter 112: Chapter 112 Purple Mansion Jade Liquid Pill Recipe

    Outside, Lin Xianzhi remained engaged in a three-against-one battle, as he continuously waved the water and gold swords, each time conjuring a series of Water-Gold Sword Lotuses.


    This was indeed the realm of Sword Light Transformation.


    Li Chengli and Li Chengzhi both had unsightly expressions on their faces, as they had not expected Lin Xianzhi to be so difficult to handle.


    Otherwise, they would have brought more than just three individuals withbat prowess above thete Foundation Establishment stage.


    But now, even as they transformed into demon cultivators, they were unable to breach Lin Xianzhi''s defense.


    Especially Li Chengzhi, who had now be a demon cultivator, channeled the Blood Demon Killing Technique with his life force, coupled with his blood toxin, yet he still couldn''t get close. The pure Sword Qi released by the Water-Gold Sword Lotuses sliced him clean.


    "How long can youst going all out and depleting your life?" Li Chengzhi suddenly sneered.


    Sword cultivators are indeed powerful, but Lin Xianzhi was just a sword cultivator who was shortening his own lifespan!


    This great battle had consumed most of Lin Xianzhi''s vitality, flesh, and spirit. He had likely lost several decades of his life span.


    And to think, Lin Xianzhi was one hundred sixty years of age.


    However, the next moment, before their sneers could fully form, a suddenly surging, heart-palpitating powerful aura emerged from within the formation.


    The entire Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein began to churn, and from afar, it appeared as if the Spiritual Energy were converging in worship, all flowing towards one ce.


    "Xiu Lei, break the formation! Break it now!" Li Chengzhi and Li Chengli both eximed in shock, their faces turning pale.


    Li Xiulei reacted extremely quickly, sending a few Thunder Gang strikes smashing towards Lin Shiming in an instant.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath, extremely tense. This time, he had to face ate Foundation Establishment stage Thunder Cultivator!


    This was also his first encounter with a Spirit Root Cultivator of a different element!


    He swung the formation gs continuously in his hands, casting Spirit Arts one after another!


    Instantly, a True Essence Shield moved to block the Thunder Gangs descending from above.


    However, unlike the True Essence Shield controlled by Lin Xianzhi, his shield was much weaker. After negating a few Thunder Gangs, it disappeared in an instant.


    The next moment, Li Xiulei leapt into the sky, and the dark clouds in the heavens all converged, transforming into thunderclouds.


    The crackling of electric arcs continuously exploded, thundering relentlessly. Then, the dark clouds churned, and the lightning coalesced!


    In an instant, it gathered into a Thunder Bow!


    The next moment, a Thunder Arrow,pletely formed from converging lightning, was nocked into the bow and shot towards Lin Shiming!


    "Secret Technique!" Lin Shiming eximed in great rm upon seeing this.


    Immediately after, he rapidly cast more Spirit Arts, and nine True Essence Soldiers once again took form, arranging themselves in a line to block the Thunder Arrow.


    The speed of the Thunder Arrow was indescribable, so fast that it practically appeared the moment Lin Shiming positioned the True Essence Soldiers. Then came a sh of electric light.


    The True Essence boomed, and the unparalleled arrow burst through eight True Essence Soldiers in one blow before finally being blocked by the True Essence Shield.


    Yet, Lin Shiming''s expression didn''t improve in the slightest, instead, cold sweat poured down and he desperately formed hand seals.


    Looking up at the sky, not knowing when, Li Xiulei had once again drawn his bow fully!


    This time, the Thunder Arrow was even more terrifying, absorbing the entire thundercloud. A massive arc of lightning trailed a tail of light several zhang long on the arrow. The brilliance of the Thunder Arrow became the most dazzling light.


    Hiss!


    The arrow whistled through the sky, and in the next instant, it was already before the Nine Dragons Celestial Formation!


    The intense oppressive force of the thunder made his Spirit Arts falter, and the newly condensed True Essence Soldiers formed only into six arms of Saber, Spear, Sword, Halberd, Axe, and Shield!


    The next moment, a terrifying explosion sounded, and the six True Essence Soldiers shattered instantly.


    The Thunder Arrow fiercely bombarded the Spirit Shield!


    Almost instantaneously, the entire Spirit Shield turned into an ocean of electric arcs, the constantly twitching arcs emitting a piercing storm.


    The next moment, the Spirit Shield directly disintegrated, and Lin Shiming''s body was smashed away in an instant, blood spurting wildly without end.


    Lin Shiming felt somewhat helpless, after all, his cultivation level wascking, in the face of absolute power, even with powerful formations, they were ultimately external aids!


    However, he only felt a dazzling blue light ignite, and Lin Shiming looked towards the source, only to discover a Spirit Talisman slowly rising above where Qian Bosheng stood.


    The color of the Spirit Talisman had changed from its previous gray-white to a deep navy blue.


    And within the Spirit Light, a Precept Ruler slowly revealed its head!


    The three distant Li Family cultivators immediately went into a frenzied attack on Qian Bosheng, trying to prevent the emergence of a Golden Core level magical treasure.


    But while the Precept Ruler slowly revealed its head, the Demonic de, Blood Sword, and Thunder Arrows seemed to slow down by countless times, even slower.


    As the Precept Ruler ascended, chants of Buddhist mantra emerged, and everyone felt as if they were in a Buddhist hall, with little monks receiving teachings before the Buddha.


    Solemn, majestic, suffocating!


    When the Precept Ruler appeared, all demonic lights and thunders faded away!


    The next moment, the Precept Ruler multiplied into countless forms!


    des destroyed, swords shattered, arrows vanished!


    As a Buddhist magical treasure, at this moment, it perfectly suppressed the demon cultivators, and Li Chengzhi along with Li Chengli were almost instantaneously annihted!


    And Li Xiulei, who tried to escape, was also in by the Precept Ruler.


    Everything was over, the entire underground world once again returned to peace.


    The deep navy blue Precept Ruler once again turned into gray-white talisman paper, which began to self-ignite as it descended, eventually disappearing into the air.


    Unlike a Purple Mansion magical treasure, the power of a Golden Core magical treasure was already quite astonishing, capable of only one strike!


    After a single strike, it vanished without a trace.


    In the sky, Lin Xianzhi slowly descended, but at this moment, he had aged considerably. Though his facial features reverted to that of his youth as the metallic True Yuan disappeared, his hair permanently turned white.


    "Seventh great-uncle!" Lin Shiming called out.


    "I''m alright!" However, Lin Xianzhi ignored Lin Shiming, turning his gaze towards Qian Bosheng!


    The danger was not over yet. One must know that Qian Bosheng also had no good intentions from the start, concealing his true cultivation level!


    This trip to the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion involved various factions who were like greedy wolves and leopards!


    "Daoist Lin, I think this time we should put aside our prejudices and unanimously denounce the Li Family''s crimes! They are demon cultivators, certainly spies for the demon sect!" Qian Bosheng, having witnessed Lin Xianzhi''s strength, quickly propped himself up and spoke.


    Then, as if still afraid that Lin Xianzhi would silence him, he added, "Daoist Lin, I also have the form for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid here!"


    "That was our Qian Family''s initial objective. If I cannot return to the Qian Family, I can''t guarantee that there won''t be a summoning from the Qingxuan Sect!"


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    After saying this, Qian Bosheng did not speak further, focusing and calming his demeanor, slowly adjusting his state.


    At this moment, if Lin Xianzhi wished to kill him, he could not resist.


    But as long as Lin Xianzhi wanted the Lin Family to continue to return to the Purple Mansion Family, he wouldn''t do so.


    One must know why Yunzhou allows only the Li Family to have the Purple Mansion Family status, because the Qingxuan Sect''s control over the Foundation Establishment Pill was extremely strict, and their control over the form for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid was even more astonishingly tight!


    At this moment, the Qian Family was in the same situation, Lin Xianzhi was unaware before, but now that the Lin Family knew, they were in the same boat.


    If they couldn''t silence him, they could only be in the same boat!


    No one could reveal the secret, if the Foundation Establishment Pill''s form leaked, one might still find connections to deal with it, but if the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid was exposed, the Lin Family and Qian Family could only face a reckoning!

 Chapter 113 Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein

    Lin Xianzhi eventually nodded, for at this juncture, just as it had been at the Xing County Square Market, there was no other choice!


    In the path of cultivation, how could one not take any risks?


    Seeing Lin Xianzhi nod, Qian Bosheng also heaved a sigh of relief and then unexpectedly gave the Lin Family another pill bottle, within which was a drop of thousand-year-old spirit milk.


    He also gave Lin Xianzhi a jade slip, which was precisely the pill form for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid.


    "Daoist Lin, this thousand-year-old spirit milk is our Qian Family''s small token of appreciation for your generous assistance earlier without holding grudges! I hope you will ept it."


    Lin Xianzhi didn''t move, and for a moment, the situation became awkward.


    Seeing this, a bitter smile appeared on Qian Bosheng''s face, and then he spoke,


    "Moreover, I swear an oath to the Heavenly Dao that all treasures like jade slips have been backed up for the Lin Family and the Qian Family has only kept one of the magical treasures!"


    After Qian Bosheng said so, Lin Xianzhi then epted the jade slip and the thousand-year-old spirit milk.


    Otherwise, the sly and cunning Qian Bosheng might very well have hidden some good treasures.


    At this time, Qian Bosheng finally breathed a sigh of relief, gave his thanks with cupped fists, and then turned to find Qian Zichu.


    As for the Li Family Foundation Establishment cultivator who had been battling with Qian Zichu, he was in by Lin Xianzhi with a single sword strike after the talisman proved its power.


    Once Qian Bosheng left, Lin Xianzhi found Lin Houyong once again, and everyone gathered in front of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    "Shiming, you and Yu Qing continue to search the cave mansion to see if there are any remaining treasures!"


    "Hou Shou, you and Hou Yong continue to work on the simplified version of the Nine Yuan Xuan Heaven Formation, I need to recover some True Yuan!" Lin Xianzhi did not take the thousand-year-old spirit milk, as it was no longer necessary at that moment.


    Even if Qian Bosheng had consumed the spirit milk, he was still suffering from the severe poison of Li Chengzhi, and would not be able to control his injuries for a while.


    After all his orders were given, Lin Xianzhi carved out a new cave mansion for himself on the side and entered to sit in meditation and cultivate.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming went with Lin Yuqing to continue searching for treasures inside the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    Although it was highly likely that the ce had been ransacked by the Qian Family, leaving nothing behind, both of them still searched very thoroughly.


    Inside the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, there was a massive chamber under the surface, resembling an underground world. It served not only as the Hermit Mo Yun''s residence but also led to the Mo Family''s ancestral hall where the memorial tablets of the Mo Family''s ancestors were enshrined.


    The Purple Mansion Cave Mansion had been picked clean, and Lin Shiming even noticed the residue of tables on the ground.


    The Qian Family had even taken the tables and beds, likely including quite a few Third Rank treasures, which he found regrettable.


    Though the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion was empty, the Mo Family''s ancestral hall seemed untouched.


    But the hall originally had few items to begin with.


    Besides the memorial tablets, there were only two meditation cushions.


    The offering table, apart from an incense burner, was bare as well!


    What shocked Lin Shiming was the presence of Golden Core Cultivators'' tablets among the over a hundred memorial tablets.


    It seemed that when the Mo Family was at its zenith, they likely were a daunting force with a Golden Core True Person at the helm.


    "Shiming, let''s not disturb the ancestral hall. Since we have taken the Mo Family''s treasures, we have benefited from their kindness. Let''s offer some incense," Lin Yuqing suggested from the side.


    "Alright, great-grandfather!" Lin Shiming nodded; he himself was not particrly moved, but for elder n members like Lin Yuqing who were of an older generation, there seemed to be a great reverence for memorial tablets in an ancestral hall.


    The two took out some sandalwood incense, performed a simple ritual, and then offered two sticks of incense in the burner.


    Surprisingly, Lin Yuqing looked solemn, muttering something under his breath.


    Lin Shiming, however, nced at the incense burner and then at the meditation cushions.


    The incense burner was an ordinary one, but in the next moment, the meditation cushion gave Lin Shiming the same aura as the Awakening Spirit Flower.


    He bent down unconsciously, pressing his hand on the cushion.


    The next moment, he felt his emotions plummet suddenly, bing calm and peaceful. It was as if dozens of mantras for clearing the mind and purifying desire were chanting in his head.


    The previous restlessness and the joy of having survived a cmity settled down instantly.


    "Great-grandfather, this cushion is a treasure!" Lin Shiming managed to control his excitement as he spoke.


    With this cushion, cultivators could have a clearer control over their cultivation, preventing restlessness caused by external factors, and also controlling the birth of Heart Demons. It was indeed a beneficial treasure for breakthroughs.


    After offering incense, Lin Yuqing also took a look at the cushion, and the next moment he was extraordinarily surprised.


    He hadn''t expected to find two fine treasures inside the ancestral hall.


    After putting away the cushion, the two surveyed the entire cave mansion for a long time before they finally stopped.


    Lin Yuqing had no issues, but Lin Shiming found a stone chamber in the cave mansion and began to treat his injuries and recover.


    After half an hour, Lin Shiming received a message and appeared in the cave mansion. At this moment, both Qian Bosheng and Qian Zichu from the Qian Family were present. Qian Bosheng''splexion had obviously improved a lot, while Qian Zichu, who had been more seriously injured, was still stabilizing his condition.


    Seeing Lin Shiming looking over, thetter also gave him a kind gaze.


    If Lin Shiming hadn''t taken action and demonstrated his divine might by luring away two Demonic Beasts, he couldn''t possibly have survived against one person and four beasts.


    "Daoist Lin, a Demon Cultivator has appeared in the Li Family, and this is no small matter!" Qian Bosheng spoke solemnly before departing, his eyes very somber.


    Lin Xianzhi also nodded and spoke earnestly:


    "Daoist Qian, upon our return, we must promptly report that a Demon Cultivator has emerged in the Li Family. Otherwise, I fear the Demonic Sect might get ideas!"


    The two set a n in just a few words, as this matter could not be taken lightly.


    If there were no Demon Cultivators in the Li Family, they would all need to unite against amon enemy at this moment, all the more so because there was a perfect opportunity at hand.


    After discussing the details, Qian Bosheng took his leave.


    Meanwhile, the people of the Lin Family also breathed a sigh of relief and began to turn their attention to the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein.


    "Let''s go and im the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein; from now on, our Lin Family will once again possess a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein!" Lin Xianzhi dered with a bright voice, his eyes shining brilliantly in this moment.


    The Lin Family did not dy. Lin Xianzhi took out the Spirit Seeking Disk andmenced the recovery of the Spiritual Vein.


    However, this time it was a massive Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, which an ordinary Spirit Seeking Disk simply couldn''t contain.


    Lin Xianzhi had no choice but to use several Spirit Seeking Disks, dividing the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein into five parts to be contained, and only then was the recovery of the Spiritual Veinplete.


    Still, this method caused great loss to the Spiritual Vein, and even after reassembling, it might directly drop in rank. But it was the best solution avable at the moment.


    It was out of the question to ask for assistance from the Sect''s Purple Mansion or the Li Family''s Purple Mansion!


    ... Find exclusive stories on m_v l|e-NovelBin


    On the way of the Qian Family, Qian Zichu looked towards Qian Bosheng, still somewhat puzzled.


    "Fourth Uncle, why did we not take part in the distribution of the Spiritual Vein? Since we''ve reached a consensus, we should be able to get a share of the Spiritual Vein!"


    "Foolish!" Qian Bosheng spoke up.


    "Apart from Lin Xianzhi''s strength, we wouldn''t stand a chance because of the Formation they''ve already set up. Besides, Lin Xianzhi is just an old cultivator at the twilight of his years; he has only a few years to live and must not be pressed. Now that our family has already obtained the prescription for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, let''s not cause unnecessary trouble."


    "You should pay more attention to that young Lin Shiming. Truly a rare talent! Under thirty years old, so decisive, cunning, and strong; his future is limitless!


    "Also, thoroughly investigate our family; there must already be spies from the Li Family. And that Qi Cultivation Elder from the Huang Family, along with the remaining members, must be uprootedpletely!"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 114: Chapter 114 Third Rank Vines

    Atop Fangmu Mountain, the formation was fully activated, shrouding the mountain in a nket of white fog, while everyone''s faces were clouded with worry.


    By the Qinglian Pool, Lin Shijie, along with Fourth Elder Lin Yutie and Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng, stood silently beside Lin Houyuan''s cave mansion, waiting.


    The next moment, a streak of golden light arrived in the sky.


    A Spirit Boat slowly descended.


    Upon seeing this, Lin Shijie immediately brightened with joy and opened the formation.


    Lin Xianzhi and the othersnded directly atop Fangmu Mountain, beside the Qinglian Pool.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!"


    Cultivators of three different generations paid their respects in unison.


    However, everyone was somewhat shocked when they noticed Lin Xianzhi''s white hair, clearly unaware of what had transpired.


    Fortunately, upon seeing that the entire party had returned without a single person missing, their expressions improved slightly.


    But there was still a gravity to their demeanors.


    Lin Xianzhi did not offer any further exnation, nor was there a need to, but seeing the worried looks on Lin Shijie and the others, he felt a vague sense of foreboding in his heart.


    "Why do you all look so troubled, has something happened to Houyuan?"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Uncle Nine encountered an ambush by the Li Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators on his way back, but, thankfully, with the help of Cultivator Xie, he managed to escape with his life. He''s currently recuperating in his cave mansion,"


    Lin Shijie looked at Lin Shiming with some concern. He had witnessed the severity of Lin Houyuan''s injuries, and the enemy had been incredibly ruthless.


    "The Li Family, Shiming, we can''t dy any longer. I must make a trip to the Qingxuan Sect. Stay here to guard Fangmu Mountain until I return!" Lin Xianzhi''s brow was deeply furrowed.


    Recently, the Li Family had been exceedingly vicious.


    Moreover, since the Li Family harbored Demon Cultivators, it was possible they had already aligned themselves with the Demon Sect. Given the rtionship between the Li and Lin Families, if something happened to the Qingxuan Sect, the Lin Family would undoubtedly be doomed to destruction.


    Lin Xianzhi left behind a number of Spirit Talismans and several spirit-seeking discs before departing on the Spirit Boat.


    Lin Shiming and the others continued to wait outside the Qinglian Pool.


    Several dayster, a message transmitted from Lin Houyuan''s cave mansion indicated he was out of danger but still needed time to recuperate.


    Only then did everyone disperse to attend to their own affairs.


    Lin Shiming returned to his cave mansion, his recent venture to the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion having been immensely fruitful.


    The power of the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation had allowed him to battle cultivators of a higher rank¡ªmatching even Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators without faltering.


    He was also highly satisfied with thebination of the Golden Winged Mantis and the Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    The horrors of the Golden Winged Mantisy in its speed and peerless attack power, while the Qinglian Taoist Robe''s concealment effect provided the perfectplement to it.


    In addition, Lin Shiming had obtained the Storage Bags of three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators; two belonged to the Li Family cultivators he had in, and the other to Qian Ziyun, who had been killed by the Li Family cultivator.


    Thinking of this, Lin Shiming instantly remained vignt, realizing that in the future, he would need to be even more cautious, lest his own Storage Bag end up in someone else''s hands one day.


    He first examined the Storage Bags of the two Li Family cultivators.


    Upon counting, there were approximately two hundred thousand Spirit Stones in total, and he also acquired a pair of mother-and-son swords, as well as one hundred and eight swords to form the Tiangang Sword Formation.


    Among them, there were three Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Swords, five Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Swords, and one hundred Second Rank Supreme Grade magic swords.


    Just these Spirit Swords alone are worth 400,000 Spirit Stones, which means he became wealthy in an instant.


    Of course, Lin Shiming did not regard them as mere Spirit Stones when it came to the Tiangang Sword Formation.


    In the belongings of the cultivator from the Li Family who had passed away during Foundation Establishment, Lin Shiming also found the method to arrange the Tiangang Sword Formation. As long as his Divine Sense was strong enough, he would have no trouble arranging two formations at the same time.


    Besides the Spirit Swords and Spirit Stones, he also obtained a third-rank intermediate grade Spirit Shield. Moreover, it was an extremely rare Wood Attribute Spirit Shield, which he named the Kuimu Shield.


    Lastly, there was a third-rank inferior grade Inner Armor that had been pierced through with arge hole; its Spirit Intelligence was greatly damaged and would require the Fourth Elder, Lin Yutie, to reforge it before it could be used again.


    He also got several third-rank inferior grade Spirit Talismans, although they were all offensive talismans with effects that were only slightly better than nothing.


    Thest Storage Bag he opened belonged to a cultivator from the Qian Family, and it was the one Lin Shiming was most looking forward to.


    Qian Ziyun had also entered the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, so it was possible he had left with things from there. Also, as the unrivaled genius of the Qian Family, the contents of his Storage Bag should logically be richer.


    Upon entering the Storage Bag, what first caught his eye was a third-rank intermediate grade Magic Artifact, the Fiery Banner, which Lin Shiming had seen Qian Ziyun use before, possessing extremely powerful force.


    Acquiring another treasure also brought a smile to his face.


    Besides the Fiery Banner, there was also a third-rank inferior grade Spirit Shield. Having already obtained the Kuimu Shield, he was somewhat disappointed, but it also showed how rare third-rank intermediate grade defensive Magic Artifacts were.


    "This is..." Lin Shiming''s attention was drawn to an ancient-looking sandalwood box. Upon opening the box, seeds brimming with Spiritual Energy came into view.


    He picked up a Spirit Seed and slowly infused it with the Wood Attribute True Essence from within his body.


    In the next moment, the Spirit Seed began to sprout in his hand.


    "Third-rank vine-type rapid-growth seeds!" Lin Shiming was overjoyed!


    For Lin Shiming, who was ustomed to using vine techniques, the most troubling issue after his Foundation Establishment breakthrough was not having matching vine seeds.


    The Snake Vine Flower and Iron Thornwood were now relegated to the role of mere distractions against Foundation Establishment cultivators, the same as ordinary wood vines were before.


    With these seeds, as long as he nurtured them through one cycle, they would be another asset for him.


    The Sword Array was primarily for trapping and killing, vines for entanglement, and the Golden Winged Mantis for assassinations!


    Thinking of this, Lin Shiming could not help but feel even happier.


    The rest of the items were not very valuable, amounting to about a hundred thousand Spirit Stones and some odd and curious pieces of furniture like tables, jade beds, and stone stools!


    Clearly, these were moved out from the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    Having sorted the Storage Bagpletely, Lin Shiming finallyy down in the cave, quietly healing and recovering.


    Upon rising the next day, he resumed his life as it was before the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion incident.


    Cultivating his techniques, catalyzing the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree and the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    Ever since his advancement to Foundation Establishment, Lin Shiming became even more adept at catalyzing the third-rank inferior grade Spirit Tree that produced Heavenly Spirit Fruits, at least shortening the maturation time of the Heavenly Spirit Fruits by more than three times. As for The Minor Divine Ability Tree, it finally showed results.


    But the rate of hastening maturity was not particrly good, just less than half, which still gave him enough reason to be thrilled. After all, the Minor Divine Ability Tree would take hundreds of years to mature.


    His daily care of the Spirit nts also helped his proficiency as a Spirit nt Master to naturally advance to thete stages of the second rank. Even benefitting from the perks of his cultivation techniques, he was on the verge of touching the threshold of the third rank as a Spirit nt Master.


    At this moment, a Spirit Message Talisman flew through the sky. Lin Shiming caught the message and ceased his current activities.


    The next moment, Lin Shiming hastily opened the Formation, flying directly to the Council Hall. Continue reading stories on mvl


    The Spirit Message was not about his father exiting seclusion; instead, it was that the Lin Family had detected a Spirit Root Cultivator with a unique Spirit Root.


    In the history of the Lin Family, such a discovery was unprecedented. It was known that cultivators with unique Spirit Roots had almost a guaranteed chance of reaching Purple Mansion and were highly likely to achieve Golden Core!

 Chapter 115 The Arrival of the Purple Mansion

    ```


    Within half an incense stick''s time, Lin Shiming had flown to the Council Hall.


    At this moment, the Council Hall had been renovated once again to be a two-story building, a symbol of a Foundation Establishment Family Head. If Lin Shiming were to break through to the Purple Mansion stage and still be the Family Head, it would be transformed into a three-story building.


    On the second floor of the Council Hall, Lin Shiming saw Lin Yuqing, the Great Elder of the Lin Family, shakily and eagerly waiting. His heart settled somewhat upon seeing Lin Shiming enter.


    Behind the Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, stood a middle-aged man of around fifty years old. The man was also dressed in fine robes, his features exuded vigor, bearing a slight resemnce to the Great Elder in his younger days, also anxiously waiting on the side.


    This man was none other than Lin Yuqing''s son, Lin Qiuxian. Since he was amoner, he did not carry the generational naming convention and usually resided in Xing County!


    Behind his son, a child of about eight years old clung to the hem of Lin Qiuxian''s robe, his small eyes full of curiosity as he looked around. When Lin Shiming entered, the child''s gaze never left him.


    "Great-grandfather!" Lin Shiming greeted with a bow.


    Thetter gestured with a wave of his hand and bowed:


    "Family Head!"


    Each addressed the other respectfully, a formality Lin Shiming had grown ustomed to over the years. After all, not only was he the Family Head, but he was also a cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage, a status that ranked him as the second most important person in the Lin Family.


    "Great-grandfather, let''s keep this matter confidential!" Lin Shiming of course knew that Lin Yuqing''s grandson had been found to possess a Spirit Root, and not just any Spirit Root, but the legendary Thunder Spirit Root.


    Such an abnormal Spirit Root could, in some sense, be considered equivalent to a pure Spirit Root. It would be fine if such a disciple appeared in a Sect because the Sect could protect them. But if such a disciple emerged in a family and word got out, it was highly likely that the Sect would coerce them into joining through threats or temptations!


    Particrly since this abnormal Spirit Root belonged to someone so young, whose mind had not yet matured. Explore more stories with mvl


    "No second person knows. I personally conducted the test on Qiuxian''s descendant in Xing County. Even if there were extraordinary signs, no one would know it''s an abnormal Spirit Root. Not even Lin Qiuxian shall know, and in the future, he will retire on Fangmu Mountain," Lin Yuqing said, trying hard to suppress his emotions, but he couldn''t hide the excitement in his voice.


    Previously, whether it was Lin Yuqi or Lin Houyuan, he was extremely envious of them.


    Now that his grandson had turned out to be an abnormal Spirit Root, destined to be renowned for all time, how could he not be thrilled?


    "Alright, Great-grandfather, Shiming trusts the way you handle matters. Shilei will be entered into the family records as a Third Spirit Root member. As for the family stipends, he will be given three times the base stipend, and will also be listed as a disciple supported by the family. All additional stipends will be issued in my name.


    Additionally, Great-grandfather, you too can enjoy ten years of triple stipends!"


    "Family Head, may my portion of the stipend also be allocated to Shilei? I am old, and have no use for more Spirit Stones!" Lin Yuqing spoke with great nervousness.


    In truth, ording to his character, he would normally not fuss over things, but when it came to his grandson, concerning his prodigiously talented grandson with an abnormal Spirit Root, this was the first time he felt so anxious.


    "Rest assured, Great-grandfather. The decision on this Spirit Stone stipend naturally rests with you. If you make this decision, the family would be more than supportive!" Lin Shiming nodded in agreement.


    "Furthermore, Great-grandfather, Shilei will be personally looked after by you. When the Seventh Great-Uncle returns, given our victory over the Li Family''s Li Xiulei, it is possible we may even acquire Li Xiulei''s Cultivation Technique!"


    "Shilei,e here, good child, and meet your seventh brother!" Seeing this, Lin Yuqing was overjoyed and pulled Lin Shilei over. Thetter appeared rather frightened, but under his father''s encouragement, he approached Lin Shiming.


    "Seventh Brother!"


    Upon hearing the childlike ''Seventh Brother'', Lin Shiming couldn''t help but smile. The family finally had an abnormal Spirit Root, so he reached into his Storage Bag and pulled out a Thunder Hook, one of the four Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts crafted by Lin Yutie for him.


    ```


    "This Thunder Hook will be Shilei''s gift for his immortal cultivation!"


    "It''s so valuable, how could I possibly ept it?" Lin Yuqing naturally understood the importance of a supreme grade magic artifact.


    This Thunder Hook, if sold in the markets, could fetch five to six thousand Spirit Stones, and at an auction, the price could rise to seven or eight thousand Spirit Stones.


    "How could you not ept it, when it''s just a Second Rank magic artifact?" Lin Shiming said indifferently, his mind turning back to his own first mission when Lin Yuqing also gave him arge amount of Spirit Water.


    In the end, under Lin Shiming''s insistence, Lin Yuqing epted the gift for Lin Shilei, who would be able to use the supreme grade magic artifactter on in the Qi Cultivation phase. With Lin Shilei''s talent, reaching theter stages of Qi Cultivation would not be too far off.


    Having dealt with the matter of the extraordinary Spirit Root, Lin Shiming returned to the Qinglian Pool to begin retraining the Nine Swords Formation, as well as refining the newly acquired Kuimu Shield, Tiangang Sword Formation, and the Fiery me Banner.


    For ten whole days, Lin Shiming was in the cave mansion, refining the magic artifacts.


    As the sun rose high once again, it signaled the beginning of a new day.


    Lin Shiming exhaled a breath of turbid air. At this moment, he had finally made an initial refinement of the Tiangang Sword Formation and the Fiery me Banner, imprinting them with his mark, while the Formation Swords were ced back into the Spirit tform for further refinement.


    With most matters now handled, Lin Shiming finally found time to cultivate a new Third Rank spiritual vine he had acquired.


    He had consulted many secret texts about this vine with no records to be found; he would have to cultivate it and then observe its effects.


    Lin Shiming specifically chose a small mountain behind Fangmu Mountain, where he started by channeling spirit energy. Unlike Second Rank vines, the Third Rank vine absorbed True Yuan at a terrifying rate.


    As he executed the cultivating Spirit Art, with a loud boom, a seed erupted into countless vines. These vines, all purple in color, quickly filled the sky, writhing like purple spirit serpents dancing high above.


    But apart from this, they seemed to have no other notable characteristics.


    However, the next moment, Lin Shiming was astounded to find that, in addition to growing through the sky, the roots underground were growing just as wildly and were extremely thick, their tips like spears rampaging through the soil!


    This delighted him exceedingly; the roots'' ability to attack was certainly beyond anyone''s expectations and would definitely be a significant asset at critical moments.


    "Certainly worthy of a seed from the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion, let''s call it the Purple Gold Vine," Lin Shiming told himself as he looked at the vines with increasing joy.


    Not only was the Purple Gold Vine plentiful and tough, it could easily bind a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and also transform its roots into purple gold spears for attack.


    He couldn''t help but prioritize the cultivation of the Purple Gold Vine seeds.


    And on that same day, a Spirit Boat appeared once again above the Lin Family''s residence.


    It was Lin Xianzhi returning, apanied by his senior brother, Xie An. However, that was not all; following behind them, an old man in purple robes slowly emerged.


    Upon closer inspection, it was none other than the Zi Xuan Hermit!


    This took Lin Shiming by surprise; he hadn''t expected the Zi Xuan Hermit toe, setting off a myriad of thoughts in his mind.


    "Shiming,e quickly and pay your respects to Master!" Lin Xianzhi sent a telepathic message to Lin Shiming.

 Chapter 116 War Treasure Ship

    "Shiming pays respects to Master. I failed to deactivate the Formation ahead of time to wee you, please impose your punishment, Master!" Lin Shiming stepped forward and spoke.


    Zi Xuan Hermit, with an imposing aura, waved his hand indifferently as if to respond.


    The next moment, when he sensed Lin Shiming''s cultivation level, his eyes finally showed a trace of surprise.


    Less than ten years, from the seventhyer of Qi Cultivation to the early stage of Foundation Establishment, this speed was already much faster than that of the sect disciples.


    "Shiming, how is your amplification of Spirit ntsing along?" Zi Xuan Hermit suddenly asked.


    "To reply to Master, Shiming is slow-witted, not even reaching fifty percent!" Lin Shiming answered cautiously, his words revealing both pride and joy.


    For a Spirit nt Master, being able to catalyze to a certain extent with True Yuan was already quite an achievement.


    However, after hearing this, a fleeting look of disappointment passed across the hermit''s face, and he did not inquire any further.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming finally rxed a bit. He had asked his seventh great-uncle; the cultivation speed of a proper ancestor from the main lineage was just about double, and that ancestor was indeed from Qingxuan Sect, definitely cultivating orthodox techniques.


    So he had concealed the actual speed, and although Zi Xuan Hermit seemed disappointed, Shiming felt it was more like a test.


    Zi Xuan Hermit also nced at Fangmu Mountain, and it seemed as though he could see through all the fog shrouding the mountain.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming tensed up again.


    Upon the mountain were Heavenly Spirit Fruit Trees, a Superior Grade Third Rank Spiritual Vein, and also Minor Divine Ability trees, and even Lin Shilei, a Thunder Spirit Root genius.


    Toward such a Purple Mansion power, he did not dare to specte about his capabilities.


    Fortunately, Lin Xianzhi did not release the Spiritual Vein detection from the Array te; if the Spiritual Energy of the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein had emerged, it would have been detected at a nce.


    Zi Xuan Hermit seemed to have some sense of self-restraint concerning his status and did not use his Divine Sense to probe on arge scale. The Formation around Lin Shiming utilized a Superior Grade Third Rank Array te.


    After a nce, Zi Xuan Hermit''s expression remained unchanged, as if that look was just a casual nce at the scenery.


    He then turned to Lin Xianzhi:


    "Xianzhi, we should not dy any longer, let''s set off for Qingyun Mountain!" Zi Xuan Hermit waved his robe and stepped onto the Spirit Boat again.


    Following him, including Xie An, the two senior brothers also stepped onto the Spirit Boat, continuing under Lin Xianzhi''s guidance.


    However, from Lin Xianzhi''s hand, a Pill Bottle flew into Lin Shiming''s hand, which contained a bottle of elixirs for healing, clearly for Lin Houyuan.


    As Lin Shiming received the elixirs, Lin Xianzhi also transmitted a message to him:


    "Shiming,e and join us. Confronting the Li Family, the more people we have, the more strength we can amass!"


    Lin Shiming nodded in response.


    After handing the elixirs over to Lin Shijie, he instructed thetter to continue guarding Fangmu Mountain, and then he too boarded the Spirit Boat.


    Inside the Spirit Boat, no one spoke. Zi Xuan Hermit was meditating in a room, while the two senior brothers were sitting silently with their eyes closed, meditating on the deck.


    Only Lin Xianzhi was standing at the very front of the deck, steering the Spirit Boat.


    His white hair drifted in the wind. In fact, for cultivators, driving a Spirit Boat would not invite wild winds.


    Lin Shiming suddenly thought if the deficiencies in the Renshui Geng Metal Art his seventh great-uncle practiced could be corrected by the system tips.


    If the cultivation technique were urate, could it restore some of his lifespan, or even make a breakthrough into the Purple Mansion.


    After contemting for a moment, he increasingly felt it was highly feasible. Unfortunately, he couldn''t currently have his seventh great-uncle practice it; instead, he would observe from the sideter.


    But as he thought about the randomness of the system tips, another headache began for Lin Shiming.


    Traveling silently, Lin Xianzhi neither transmitted any messages nor engaged in conversation.


    After greeting the two senior brothers, Lin Shiming also found a spot on the deck to sit quietly and begin cultivating his newly acquired Magical Artifact.


    ...


    The sun rose in the east, and a streak of purple light emerged with the dawn, heralding the arrival of a new day.


    In the distance, a tall mountain reaching into the clouds came into view.


    This mountain was evidently much taller than Fangmu Mountain, and as its name suggested, it stood above the Qingyun.


    Even thousands of miles away, one could sense its towering height and steep cliffs.


    This was where the Li Family of Qingyun Mountain resided, and almost as soon as Lin Xianzhi''s Spirit Boat arrived, another Spirit Boat emerged at its side.


    Hovering above that Spirit Boat was a huge character for "money," signifying that it belonged to the Qian Family.


    The two Spirit Boats converged together as if by some unspoken agreement.


    On the other Spirit Boat, Qian Bosheng was clearly the one piloting the craft, with Qian Zichu standing quietly behind him.


    Once the Spirit Boats stabilized in the air, a man in a green robe walked out from the opposite craft, and at the same moment, Zi Xuan Hermit stepped out from within his own boat.


    "I had a premonition beforeing here and sure enough, Heavenly Sword Peak is still under Master Ji''smand. For this mission, we''ll have to rely on Master Ji to lead our formation!"


    "What are you saying, Brother Qian? In just three hundred years, you''ve advanced to the Purple Mansion Late Stage. We should work together. If the Li Family dares to collude with the Heavenly Demon Sect, they can''t me our Qingxuan Sect for forgetting old ties!"


    The two exchanged greetings briefly before turning their attention towards Qingyun Mountain.


    At this point, both the Lin Family and the Qian Family seemed to be ying the roles of guides.


    They were only a thousand miles away when the man in the green robe gestured suddenly in the air.


    A colossal ship that covered the sky appeared, a vessel that looked like a small mountainpared to the Third Rank Spirit Boats, not only in size but also in its overwhelming Spirit Might.


    It was a Fourth Rank Magical Treasure Spirit Boat, also known as a War Treasure Ship.


    The War Treasure Ship was the only treasure vessel that Foundation Establishment cultivators could also pilot. It contained several powerful formations, and at critical moments, it even had spatial formations that could amodate up to a hundred thousand people.


    In times of war, this allowed for the decisive advantage of swift military movements.


    This was also a closely guarded secret treasure of the Qingxuan Sect. Even the Spirit Beast Sect and the Spirit Talisman Sect, fellow sects of the Zhao Kingdom, could only purchase it from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Together, they boarded the Fourth Rank treasure vessel,prising two Purple Mansion cultivators and ten Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    While boarding, Lin Shiming finally learned from his seventh grand uncle that the other Purple Mansion cultivator was known as Tianyun Hermit from the Shen Ji Peak of the Qingxuan Sect.


    Moreover, Tianyun Hermit had once been a disciple of the Qian Family, but due to his powerful Dual Spirit Root of wood and earth, he had joined the Qingxuan Sect and became a Purple Mansion Late Stage cultivator within a mere three hundred years.


    The speed of the treasure ship was terrifying. In an instant, they felt a terrifying propulsive force burst forth and shoot out.


    In just a few breaths, Qingyun Mountain, which was thousands of miles away, was suddenly right before them.


    Then, array gs shot out rapidly in front of the treasure ship.


    They quickly enveloped Qingyun Mountain.


    The array gs moved so fast that Lin Shiming could barely keep up, and in the next moment, Spirit Light connected in a continuous expanse, forming a gigantic Trapping Formation around the mountain.


    A Fourth Rank Formation, the Eight Wastnds Prison Dragon Formation!


    At the same time, the entire treasure ship began to shake violently. As it shook, Spirit Patterns undted like waves in the ocean, and a terrifying suction force emanated from the front of the ship.


    The next moment, a splendid sword of light spanning thousands of feet took form!


    Without a word, it shed down!


    It was the treasure ship''s attack formation, the Heavenly Sword Extermination Formation!


    Lin Shiming watched on, dumbfounded. There was no inspection, no greeting¡ªjust a direct Fourth Rank Trapping Formation to trap people and a Fourth Rank Killing Formation to break through the defensive formation!


    There was no trace of the demeanor expected of high-level Purple Mansion experts!

 Chapter 117: Chapter 117 Sword Birth Myriad Laws

    The terrifying sword of light, exuding an overwhelming Spirit Might that seemed like divine punishment from the heavens, bore down oppressively.


    Meanwhile, on Qingyun Mountain, a glowing Spirit Light barrier suddenly appeared, the very Defensive Array of the mountain, also known as the Mountain-Protecting Formation.


    Boom!


    The earth-shattering roar reverberated across the sky andnd, and the shockwave that sted forth ttened the nearby hills into nothingness.


    The War Treasure Ship didn''t stop there, under the control of Xie An and other Foundation Establishment disciples, it consolidated another sword of light.


    Once again, the terrifying Spirit Might was unleashed, and this time, two swords were formed in unison!


    At the same time, Zi Xuan Hermit and Heavenly Cloud Hermit nodded to each other and flew out together.


    The former waved his hand and a proud sun rose behind him, followed by a Sun Treasure Sword flying out from it.


    In the next moment, Sword Qi filled the sky like clouds and the sword light flooded the heavens!


    One sh was cast, numerous times more ferocious than the sword of the War Treasure Ship!


    Heavenly Cloud Hermit also fiercely performed a hand seal, and suddenly a giant hand emerged in the sky, carrying the immense force of mountains and fiercely pressing down.


    The light barrier over Qingyun Mountain couldn''t hold on at all and shattered instantly.


    The Formation broke so simply and quickly.


    This made the two Hermit cultivators from the Purple Mansion somewhat incredulous.


    The Li Family also had members of the Purple Mansion.


    However, the next moment, as the Formation shattered, a dense golden light surged out from Qingyun Mountain.


    A golden Roc of enormous size flew out from Qingyun Mountain, its vastness eclipsing the sun, terrifying beyond measure.


    With a long cry, Lin Shiming felt as if he couldn''t control the blood in his body, shaking uncontrobly!


    "This is bad, it''s the offspring of the Jin Peng Demon King!" The faces of Zi Xuan Hermit and Heavenly Cloud Hermit changed dramatically at the same time!


    As if seeing a ghost, they immediately navigated the War Treasure Ship towards Qingzhou!


    At this moment, the people from the Lin Family and the Qian Family were all full of doubt, but almost at the same time as the two Purple Mansion cultivators fled, a louder beast roar suddenly erupted from the depths of the Qingyun Mountain Range!


    The dense golden light almost upied the whole world.


    One could vaguely see a gigantic Golden Roc, like a Kunpeng, howling to the sky.


    It was clear now that they had fallen into a trap; members of the Li Family, along with cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect, had captured the offspring of the Jin Peng Demon King.


    This act of breaking the Formation had forever left the imprint of the Qingxuan Sect.


    Faced with a Fifth Rank Demonic Beast, let alone one as fast as the Jin Peng Demon King, nobody dared even to look, and everyone desperately drove the Spirit Boat away, regardless of how many tens of thousands of miles away they were.


    At this moment, Zi Xuan Hermit and Heavenly Cloud Hermit piloted the Spirit Boat together, both of them driving their Spiritual Power to its utmost limit.


    "This damned Li Family, they want to trigger a beast tide; countless lives will be doomed!"


    "If it were only that, it would be bearable¡­" Zi Xuan Hermit''s eyes also held the deepest of resentment.


    But he wasn''t just thinking about the beast tide; he wondered if the Heavenly Demon Sect from Chu Country would also take action this time.


    Caught between two foes, even if the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom were formidable, they couldn''t withstand this!


    Upon hearing this, Heavenly Cloud Hermit also wore a face of panic, for if it were true, by then not just Purple Mansion cultivators, but even Golden Core Cultivators could suffer injuries!


    The Li Family didn''t have the strength to capture the offspring of the Jin Peng Demon King; it must have been a Golden Core True Person who took to the field!


    If a Golden Core True Person from Chu Country had made an appearance, it certainly wouldn''t be just to incite a beast tide!


    The more the two thought, the more agitated they became, and what frightened them even more was that the Golden Winged Roc King was catching up to them at an already horrifying speed.


    The two immediately took out elixirs for recovery, and in the next moment, under the stimtion of their True Yuan, the speed of the Spirit Boat once again tripled!


    But even so, Lin Shiming still felt as if a terrifying presence was drawing near from behind him, despite being tens of thousands of miles away.


    Heavenly Cloud Hermit, with a look of distress on his face, took out a Green Spirit Talisman. Just one nce at the intricate Spirit Patterns on the talisman made Lin Shiming''s head throb with pain, theirplexity beyond anything seen before.


    As the Green Spirit Talisman was activated, the entire War Treasure Ship seemed to grow green wings anew, making a tactical retreat towards the direction of Qingzhou.


    One was chasing, and the other was fleeing; in just one day, they went from Qingyun Mountain Range to the border of Qingzhou.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming only felt that the golden light behind him had spread to less than one thousand meters away!


    The pping wings stirred up one golden tornado after another, almost directly tearing the War Treasure Ship to shreds!


    Everyone felt a sense of despair!


    The terror of a Fifth Rank Demonic Beast King simply overturned everyone''s understanding!


    However, just then, a figure also emerged from Qingxuan Sect''s Qingxuan Mountain, flying towards them.


    The speed of that figure was equally terrifying. With just a few steps, they had reached the front of the treasure ship.


    The cultivator was wearing a green Taoist robe and looked extremely young, with no fluctuation of Spiritual Energy on his body, as if he were just an ordinary person.


    "Jin Peng, you''ve crossed the line!" the voice slowly spoke.


    The Golden Roc behind him didn''t utter another word and immediately struck with a w that shook the heavens.


    In the sky, it was as if the firmament itself had opened its eye, the entire void unfolded, and a golden, dazzling Spirit w stretched out, grabbing towards the cultivator in the green robe.


    "Jin Peng, do you really think you are a Golden Feather True Spirit Roc?" The figure in the green robe was filled with disdain.


    The next moment, Lin Shiming only felt that the entire sky suddenly filled with dazzling green light.


    However, what came into view was a three-foot-long green sword at the waist.


    That green sword seemed light and inoffensive, as if unremarkable.


    Yet when it was met with the Golden w''s strike, it was as if a world of Sword Dao had been torn open.


    Countless Sword Qi burst forth!


    Swords filled the sky everywhere one looked.


    In a trance, it seemed to the onlookers that there were millions of swords blooming, continuing to sh towards the Golden w.


    Boom!


    The terrifying explosion resonated, and the treasure ship was flipped open.


    "Wait, humans!" an angry voice sounded as the Golden Roc Demonic Beast King spread its wings and flew off!


    Apparently, it was no match for the cultivator in the green robe.


    But one must know that in Qingyun Mountain Range, there are dozens of Demon Kings!


    This was clearly a call for reinforcements!


    The cultivator in the green robe had a serious face. He wanted to detain the Golden Roc Demonic Beast King but knew all too well that, without a Trapping Formation, it was impossible to hold back a Fifth Rank Beast King!


    The Golden Roc arrived quickly and left just as swiftly!


    Only the figure in the green robe remained in the sky.


    "Zi Xuan pays respects to Heavenly Sword Uncle Master!"


    "Qingyun pays respects to Heavenly Sword Uncle Master!"


    Qingyun and Zi Xuan paid their respect with sped hands at the same time.


    Subsequently, Lin Xianzhi, Xie An, and others spoke:


    "Pay respects to our Ancestor Master!"


    "Disciples have been ipetent in their duties, please punish us, Uncle Master!" Qingyun and Zi Xuan were full of frustration, but at this point, it was their fault.


    "This matter has nothing to do with you. Prepare to resist the beast tide!"


    "Heavenly Demon Sect, I, Heavenly Sword, will remember this!" Heavenly Sword True Person let out a cold huff, and everyone felt an awe-inspiring Sword Intent shivering involuntarily as the Heavenly Sword True Person headed towards the Qingyun Market.


    The beast tide would break out soon, and as a Golden Core True Person, he had to take his ce at once to stabilize the army''s morale.


    "Xianzhi, hurry back to your family and make preparations!" Zi Xuan Hermit and Qingyun Hermit almost simultaneously instructed the Lin Family and Qian Family.


    The beast tide was erupting in Yunzhou and Lin Family and Qian Family were in the direct line of impact. They had no choice but to sacrifice mortals unless they were willing to abandon their roots. For the family to develop in the long run, they must fight with all their might this time.

 Chapter 118 Attempt

    ```


    At the pavilion beside the Green Lotus Pool on Fangmu Mountain, every Foundation Establishment Cultivator of the Lin Family, as well as the Qi Cultivation Elders, were present.


    At the highest ce sat Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming who had hurried back from the Qingzhou border. At this moment, everyone''s expression was solemn, ready for theing storm.


    The momentum of Jin Peng, the Demon King, that day was truly overwhelming, oppressing the entire Yunzhou!


    And this was only the beginning. What Yunzhou was about to face could be a massive beast tide, a rarity in a thousand years.


    This beast tide brought an unprecedented pressure on everyone, and it would also be the Lin Family''s greatest ordeal since the restoration of their Foundation Establishment family''s glory.


    If they were to ovee it, the Lin Family would no longer have external threats from the Li Family, and internally, an exceptional Spirit Root would emerge.


    The rise of the Lin Family to be a Purple Mansion Family was within reach!


    "Everyone is here, Shiming, make the arrangements!" Lin Xianzhi looked towards Lin Shiming before speaking.


    Lin Shiming nodded. Ten years ago, it was his father who made the decisions. Now, ten yearster, he had taken his father''s ce!


    He took a deep breath. Right now, countless thoughts ran through his mind, but as the Family Head of the Lin Family, everyone could be in disarray, but he could not:


    "Uncle Five, from this day forth, seal off the Golden Iron Stone vein. Until the beast tide recedes, we will not mine it. Also, leave a visual record. At the key moment, we can borrow outside forces to help us through the Qingyun beast tide ordeal!"


    "And Uncle Five, please also take a stand at Nanling Mountain in Lingnan County. We must not let the newly relocated mortals be devoured by demonic beasts!"


    "Yes, Family Head!" Lin Houyong responded.


    "Father, Shijie, the main battleground for the uing beast tide will surely be the Qingyun marketce. Its terrain is t, and it is the opening where thergest number of Spirit Beasts in the entire Qingyun Mountain range emerge. Uncle Seven and I will defend there. We entrust the defense of the family''s Fangmu Mountain to you both!"


    "Yes!" Lin Shijie and Lin Houyuan both nodded as well.


    They all knew that as named disciples of the Qingxuan Sect, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi had to be at the very front lines of the war.


    "Great-grandfather, effective immediately, buyrge quantities of Healing Pills, defensive Magic Artifacts, and every kind of Second Rank Spirit Talisman from the major marketces, provided they are not more than thirty percent above the market price. We must be prepared to support the family in a prolonged battle!"


    "Yes, Family Head!" Lin Yuzheng immediately nodded in response.


    "Great-grandfather, effective immediately, provide ess to battle formation training methods to all disciples of the Law Enforcement Hall, with the family waiving all contribution points unconditionally!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Great Uncle Four, both the Alchemy Hall and the Weapon Training Hall of the family will be under your responsibility. We must refine as many Healing Pills and standard Magic Artifacts as possible!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Uncle Two, the family needs you to take special care of the Formations during this period. Nanling Mountain needs reinforcement, and we also need to establish as many sensing Formations as possible!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    ...


    A series of orders were issued, and everyone quickly took their leave to carry them out.


    The Family''s ordeal could not be shouldered by just one person; it required all members to unite in determination and effort.


    The pavilion at the Green Lotus Pool soon only had Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming left, both young and old showing deep concern in their eyes.


    They were far more pessimistic than the rest of the family members.


    In truth, the Heavenly Sword True Person should have given them great confidence. However, they were also aware that the Demonic Path Three Sects of Chu Country would certainly not just stand by and watch.


    They would definitely make their move at the critical moment. At that time, the Spirit Beast Sect and the Spirit Talisman Sect would be hit the hardest.


    The entirety of the Zhao Kingdom would be engulfed in the mes of war.


    ```


    No matter whether it is the Demon King forces on Qingyun Mountain or the Three Sects of the Demonic Path, none are weaker than the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom. For a time, facing two fronts, Zhao Kingdom will have to make a choice.


    And the choice will only be between two parties: one is the territories belonging to the Spirit Talisman Sect and the Spirit Beast Sect, which is close to Chu Country.


    Secondly, there are Yunzhou and Xuzhou of the Qingxuan Sect, which, in the eyes of the Qingxuan Sect, are considered remote areas that are very likely to be abandoned when the moment of crisises.


    "Do your best!" Lin Xianzhi also sighed.


    In the face of such a catastrophe, it is already beyond the control of a Foundation Establishment cultivator or even a Purple Mansion cultivator.


    Only a Golden Core cultivator can preserve themselves in the face of such a catastrophe!


    "By the way, Seventh Great-Uncle, there''s good news! A Thunder Spirit Root cultivator has appeared in the family!" Lin Shiming suddenly said.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xianzhi''s face also turned ecstatic, and he hurriedly asked thetter to lead the way.


    After going to check, he gave thetter a set of cultivation techniques. Unfortunately, they did not have Li Xiulei''s technique, just an ordinary Yellow-Ranked Superior Grade technique. And with that, the Li Family also disappeared from Yunzhou; finding Li Xiulei''s technique was obviously no longer possible.


    Given the fact that the Li Family had purchased war treasure ships twice, it should be that they took their core members and arge number of their mortals away on the war treasure ships.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s only doubt was why the Qingxuan Sect sold war treasure ships at the Qingxuan Grand Assembly.


    If before the events on Qingyun Mountain he had not understood the power of the war treasure ships, now he clearly knew what the treasure ships meant and why most Purple Mansion cultivators craved a war treasure ship.


    You must understand that as long as there are enough Foundation Establishment cultivators, that treasure ship is equivalent to a Purple Mansion cultivator!


    Moreover, this time, the Qingxuan Sect, during the two Qingxuan Grand Assemblies, had the war treasure ships as their core finale treasures.


    "Shiming, if something unexpected happens, by that time, you will protect Shilei and ensure his safety at all costs!" After seeing Lin Shilei, Lin Xianzhi looked much better, and his somewhat aged face rxed somewhat.


    Lin Shiming wanted to say some inspiring words, but in the end, he swallowed them.


    He could only nod his head, after all, even formidable Purple Mansion cultivators like Zi Xuan Hermit and Tianyun Hermit could only flee in panic. How could he guarantee that their Lin Family would definitely be safe!


    With the vignt attitude of the Qingxuan Sect, Yunzhou and Xuzhou could be disposable pawns any day!


    Lin Shiming, feeling somewhat sad, once again looked at Lin Xianzhi''s white hair.


    The white hair was already starting to be dry and split, losing its previous color!


    Soon, he thought of the cultivation technique and the sword moves that Lin Xianzhi used, draining his lifespan. If his Seventh Great-Uncle could fully disy the realm of Sword Light Transformation of the Sword Dao, his sword cultivator strength would absolutely be on par with Foundation Establishment Perfection.


    Immediately he couldn''t help but speak up:


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, are you practicing the Renshui Geng Metal Art?"


    At this moment, Lin Shiming would not let pass any opportunity to increase the strength of the Lin Family.


    "Yes!" Lin Xianzhi said with a puzzled look on his face.


    The Qingxuan Sect''s techniques given to nominal disciples were Jade Slips that would be invalidated after a single refinement.


    And also bound by a Heavenly Dao oath, the techniques must not be leaked, not even to one''s own biological son.


    Lin Shiming had also cultivated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, can you practice in front of Shiming?" Lin Shiming tentatively asked.


    The system prompts were filled with too much uncertainty, but concerning the lifespan and path of his Seventh Great-Uncle, he wanted to try!


    Hearing this, Lin Xianzhi stared at Lin Shiming for a long time.


    His eyes were full of strangeness, and he wanted to ask something, but in the end, he didn''t. Instead, he nodded, choosing to trust.

 Chapter 119: Chapter 119 Preparation

    Next to Qinglian Pool, inside Lin Xianzhi''s cave dwelling.


    The d¨¦cor was in, the stone table furniture simple. At this moment, Lin Shiming suddenly thought that if his great-uncle in the future were to leave a legacy and a cave dwelling, theter generations would probably be very disappointed!


    In front of Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi was seated cross-legged on a stone bed, concentrating and calming his breath, beginning his cultivation.


    But,pared to usual, his focus and the calming of his breath took half a breath longer.


    The next moment, streams of spiritual energy surged towards Lin Xianzhi''s body. The Grand Cirction of the Renshui Geng Metal Art began.


    Then a blue-golden glow circted, as the aura soared and then waned, changing continuously.


    This was the first time Lin Shiming observed someone else''s cultivation, but he was not rxed at that moment. If in the end the system prompt did not appear, then all his efforts would have been in vain.


    His heart continuously monitored the system prompt.


    However, after one breath, two breaths!


    Until Lin Xianzhipleted a small cirction of Grand Cirction and opened his eyes.


    There was still no sign of the system prompt.


    This couldn''t help but make Lin Shiming think, perhaps system prompts could only affect himself.


    After Lin Xianzhi cast a nce at Lin Shiming, he closed his eyes once more and continued his cultivation.


    This time, it was the turn of the Grand Cirction.


    The spirit light was even more brilliant, and the changes in spiritual breath were even more violent.


    Lin Shiming watched from the side as it went on for an entire hour, and finally, the system prompt appeared once again:


    "Reminding the great-uncle that his cultivation technique primarily cultivates metal, and secondarily water¡­"


    Lin Shiming was somewhat stunned. He hadn''t expected this profound-rank Purple Mansion cultivation technique to not only have several incorrect cultivation paths but also to get the most critical aspect of primary and secondary cultivation all wrong.


    No wonder Lin Xianzhi would suffer a decrease in his lifespan every time he exerted his full power in casting spells.


    Moreover, water attribute cultivation techniques inherently possess healing qualities. The more one tries to alleviate injuries, the more he subconsciously starts to primarily cultivate the water attribute! Once again taking a wrong path further.


    In the end, only one-tenth of the metal attribute True Yuan remained, which contradicted the essence of the Renshui Geng Metal Art itself!


    Many thoughts shed through Lin Shiming''s mind in an instant. He didn''t understand why Qingxuan Sect epted nominal disciples, nor why they always imparted such wed cultivation techniques.


    And it was astonishing that not a single person had ever spoken out about it, although they all took oaths upon the Heavenly Dao. This fact revealed the ingenious methods of the Qingxuan Sect.


    Lin Shiming''s fear of the Qingxuan Sect rose to a new level in his heart.


    Afterpleting the Grand Cirction, Lin Xianzhi opened his eyes. The first look he gave Lin Shiming was one of dejection, because Lin Shiming hadn''t interrupted him, indicating that he might not have seen anything amiss.


    But this seemed natural to him since, after all, Lin Shiming was merely a cultivator at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, and a newly advanced one at that, having established his foundation less than two years ago.


    "Shiming, it''s alright, let''s just prepare well for the demonic beast tide," Lin Xianzhi sighed.


    "Great-uncle, you''ve got the direction of your cultivation technique wrong; everything that follows is an attempt to remedy the situation after the loss...," Lin Shiming detailed the ws of the cultivation technique and how to correct the cultivation path.


    After hearing this, Lin Xianzhi''s face dramatically changed.


    The cultivation technique Lin Shiming described differed greatly from what he had been practicing. In fact, he could hardly believe it, but it is important to note that he hadn''t divulged his specific cultivation path to Lin Shiming, and he couldn''t!


    Yet Lin Shiming knew it and listed all the ws.


    Lin Xianzhi had sensed these ws before, albeit slightly, but as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, how could he dare to rashly alter a profound-rank cultivation technique!


    "Great-uncle, why not give it a try?" Lin Xianzhi was still in shock, still contemting, when Lin Shiming spoke without waiting.


    Lin Shiming''s voice brought Lin Xianzhi back to reality, and thetter nodded, beginning to cultivate once again.


    This time the cultivation went well. Lin Xianzhi''s aura was entirely different from before, and there were no more variations in his spiritual breath. It felt like progress had happened in an orderly fashion, naturally and inevitably!


    Afterpleting one cycle of Grand Cirction cultivation, Lin Xianzhi immediately stood up, his whole being radiating with vitality at its peak!


    "Congrattions, Uncle Ancestor Seven!" Lin Shiming repeatedly offered his felicitations at the side, and thetter was extraordinarily pleased,ughing heartily.


    This was Lin Shiming''s first time seeing such a sight.


    "This is all thanks to you, Shiming!" Lin Xianzhi did not know what else to say, but his beaming face also made Lin Shiming somewhat happy.


    Uncle Ancestor Seven had helped him a lot, always acting as his protective umbre. Now that he could do something within his power for Lin Xianzhi, it made him very happy. Discover exclusive content at mvl


    Moreover, the highestbat power of the Lin Family was still Uncle Ancestor Seven.


    After confirming the cultivation technique, there was no need to worry about lifespan reduction, and his strength was bound to greatly increase.


    After the happiness subsided, both Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming calmed down. Although the cultivation technique was fixed, the family''s situation was still very severe.


    Lin Xianzhi even spoke up:


    "Shiming, I will seal away this segment of memory. In the future, if I ask about it, just tell me you were considering the migration of mortals!"


    After Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, Lin Shiming suddenly recalled that while the cultivation technique was fixed, Lin Xianzhi''s danger had, in fact, increased.


    And this could potentially involve him as well. He was not sure what the defect in the Purple Wood Heart Sutra was, but he could perceive the w in the Renshui Geng Metal Art.


    What would be the Qingxuan Sect''s attitude, and what about the Zi Xuan Hermit?


    Lin Shiming felt his heart tense up once again.


    Especially because the correction of the cultivation technique was done by a mere nce from an early stage Foundation Establishment presence.


    If the news were to leak, even if he reached the Purple Mansion, he might not survive among those centuries-old elders.


    After speaking with Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming also felt somewhat heavy-hearted.


    Compared to Uncle Ancestor Seven, he had considered less, but fortunately, Uncle Ancestor Seven had sealed his own memory.


    And at the same time, he reminded himself not to reveal the full power of his Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    Lin Shiming made another trip to the Council Hall and arranged for the migration of mortals with his eldest uncle once more, having them move even farther away from the Qingyun mountain range.


    Afterward, he returned to his cave dwelling and began practicing the Tiangang Sword Formation.


    The Tiangang Sword Formation was far inferior to the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation; itsplexity was nowhere near that of thetter. However, simrly, its power also depended on the swords themselves.


    Nine Formation Swords were just wood attribute sword nks, barely Third Rank, while the Tiangang Sword Formation contained three Third Rank Intermediate Grade swords, five Third Rank Superior Grade swords, and as many as one hundred Second Rank Supreme Grade swords!


    In terms of offensive power, there was an advantage. Of course, if his Artifact Refining skill improved or if he sought another Artifact Refining Master to reforge the Formation Swords, even if it was just to create Third Rank Intermediate Grade swords, he was confident that he would have few rivals among the mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators!


    While Lin Xianzhi was in seclusion and Lin Shiming practiced his swordsmanship, massive changes were taking ce across the Qingyun mountain range.


    Beasts of all kinds roared together, and Spirit Might surged!


    From time to time, deep within the mountain range, a Purple Mansion Great Demon would look up to the skies and roar, their Spirit Might astonishing.


    All over Yunzhou, near the Qingyun mountain range, first and second rank Demonic Beasts started to appear gradually!


    Cultivators and mortals from the state began moving away from the Qingyun mountain range, everyone with expressions of terror as if doomsday had arrived!


    And two dayster, a Spirit Talisman flew in from outside, heading towards Fangmu Mountain.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi almost simultaneously received the Spirit Talisman, which was a summoning order.


    This time, the request was for two Foundation Establishment members from the Lin Family, twentyte-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators, and twenty mid-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators!

 Chapter 120: Chapter 120 Opportunity for Red-haired Promotion

    In Qingyun Marketce, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming walked along the streets, beholding the towering city walls dotted with fully armed cultivators.


    A sense of solemnity rose within them spontaneously!


    In just a few short days, what had been a small marketce had now transformed into a fortress-like city of war.


    The city walls, previously merely ten meters high, had grown to a hundred meters, reinforced with protective runes.


    Atop the city walls stood the sword from beyond the heavens; Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi couldn''t help but look over, and in the next moment, they felt overwhelmed by the dazzling sword light.


    "This is the sword of True Person of the Heavenly Sword!" The two of them were greatly shocked, but at the same time, they recognized the resoluteness of True Person of the Heavenly Sword.


    It was precisely because of this, faced with the intensifying power of the iing Demonic Beast Tide, that all the cultivators were fearless!


    That was a genuine Fifth Rank Magical Treasure!


    Commanding atop the walls was Xie An. As the head of the Heavenly Sword Peak of the Qingxuan Sect, both Zi Xuan Hermit and Xie An among others would naturally suppress the beast tide.


    The two immediately proceeded to answer the call to duty, and along the way, Lin Shiming also saw many familiar faces, including members of the Tian Qian Family, Cheng Family from the north, Bamboo Ye Family...


    However, unlike before when he had been seen as a junior, this time not only was he a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but he was also the Lin Family Head and one of the leaders of the team.


    Those cultivators were also very dynamic; although surprised, they did not look down on him in the least, but instead were full of ttering gestures. Find more chapters on mvl


    With the beast tide approaching, everyone in Yunzhou felt endangered. During such times, having an extra friend naturally meant an extrayer of security.


    Especially the Qian Family. This time not only had Qian Boshenge, but also the old ancestor of the Qian Family, Qian Yongfu.


    Despite both families being extremely wary of each other internally, they appeared harmonious on the surface, even engaging in discussions about matrimonial alliances.


    With the Li Family stepping out, the power structure of Yunzhou would inevitably be rewritten, but all hinged on surviving the beast tide.


    "All Foundation Establishment families, quickly assemble in the council hall!"


    Suddenly, a voice transmission echoed through the sky, and a group of Foundation Establishment cultivators immediately headed towards the council hall.


    This council hall was, in fact, the former auction house of Qingyun Marketce. Now, it served as an ideal meeting ce.


    The hall was spacious, but there weren''t many Foundation Establishment cultivators present¡ªnearly a hundred. One must understand that this was nearly the entirety of Yunzhou''s Foundation Establishment cultivators, including those who roamed the Qingyun Mountains, and some from Qingzhou and Xuzhou who specially came to aid.


    Xie An maintained order, and soon after, in came Zi Xuan Hermit, d in a purple robe.


    "We pay our respects to Senior Zi Xuan!" Amidst the greetings of the multitude of Foundation Establishment cultivators, Zi Xuan Hermit waved his hand for silence before speaking gravely:


    "I am Zi Xuan of the Qingxuan Sect''s Heavenly Sword Peak. First, I wish to thank everyone for braving the danger to defend our city!"


    "This beast tide at Qingyun Mountain is a disaster unseen in hundreds of years, and I hope everyone will do their utmost to repel the Demonic Beasts. Our homes lie just behind us; we have nowhere to retreat!"


    "Hereby, I announce that the Foundation Establishment cultivators will be divided into four groups to defend the four gates of Qingyun City. Each gate will be assigned a Commandant and a Deputy Commandant..."


    Zi Xuan kept making appointments, and to no one''s surprise, all fourmandants were Direct Disciples of the Qingxuan Sect. As for the four deputymandants, they were selected from major families, including Lin Xianzhi and Qian Yongfu who all obtained seats as deputymandants.


    However, there was not a trace of joy within the Lin Family. On their way here, Lin Xianzhi had learned from Xie An that this time, there would likely be four Demon Kings appearing!


    The Great Sects would only dispatch three Golden Core cultivators, for on the border frontier with Zhao Kingdom, the Mage Sect of Chu Country had already begun to stir.


    The Three Sects dared notmit all their Golden Core cultivators to stop the beast tide. Having three here already amounted to shouldering a tremendous pressure.


    At the same time, the Demonic Race had even more Purple Mansion cultivators, but as of this moment, only about a dozen had confirmed they would defend the city!


    Fortunately, the four gates were each fortified by a war treasure boat. In critical moments, these boats could bombard the Demonic Beasts¡ªa force equivalent to Purple Mansion strength.


    ```


    The four city gates were distributed without anyints, after all, both the suprememanders and deputymanders were at least at thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    At the final moment, Qingxuan Sect also distributed Healing Pills, Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Talismans, and even Third Rank standard Flying Swords.


    The Lin Family was assigned to the North City gate, which was directly facing the Qingyun Mountain range.


    The beast tide didn''t take long to arrive. On the second day of the Foundation Establishment conference, a terrifying roar erupted from within the Qingyun Mountains!


    Then, like a lit fuse, countless Demonic Beasts surged out like a tidal wave.


    Second Rank and Third Rank Demonic Beasts which were rarely seen on normal days were emerging one after another in the beast tide, practically ubiquitous.


    Flying creatures,nd beasts, and even those that could burrow through the earth, covering thousands of meters in a single move!


    The roars of the beasts echoed between heaven and earth, deafening, apanied by rolling clouds of dust.


    Shiming also saw many familiar Demonic Beasts: the Red-haired Demon Monkey, Green Winged Mantis, Sabretooth Tiger, Thunder Leopard, Golden Luan Eagle, and more...


    "Everyone get ready. Control the flying Demonic Birds with Flying Swords. Use Spirit Talismans and spell-type methods forrge-scale coverage of thend beasts!" Xie Anmanded as the suprememander, issuing orders as themander of the North City gate in a battlefield without Purple Mansion cultivators.


    Shiming also addressed those behind him including Lin Houyong and others:


    "Everyone, be careful not to be overly aggressive!"


    He was indeed very worried about the Qi Cultivators behind him.


    Of course, there was no time for him to worry too much at this moment, as some flying Demonic Beasts had already approached, with wind des and Thunder Techniques bombarding the Formation of Qingyun City.


    And from the whole North City, over a hundred Third Rank Flying Swords flew out!


    Each Foundation Establishment Cultivator controlled two to three Third Rank Flying Swords.


    Shiming was also deploying the mother and child swords. All Flying Swords covered the skies, descending upon the Demonic Birds.


    At this moment, no one spared a second thought for the Second Rank Demonic Beasts, only focusing on killing more, in the most convenient way, with the least expenditure of True Yuan.


    Otherwise, the flying creatures were the ones that could threaten the Formation the most.


    After a wave of Flying Swords, countless Demonic Beasts'' corpses were reduced to chunks of flesh and blood, plummeting down, but at the same time, arge number of Demonic Beasts crashed onto the Spirit Shield of Qingyun City.


    The Fourth Rank Supreme Grade Formation remained undamaged, but immediately after, a horrifying number of Demonic Birds surged once again, and not muchter, thend beasts also reached the city walls, beginning a frenzied assault.


    "Let''s charge out and collect some of the Demonic Beast corpses as well!"


    The pile of Demonic Beast corpses in front of the city walls grew taller, with some beasts being ratherrge-bodied. To prevent the piled-up corpses from turning into a mountain and losing the advantage of the city walls, Xie An issued anothermand.


    Upon thismand, many Cultivators also surged outward. The in Demonic Birds and beasts harbored a lot of valuable materials, which could fetch a good amount of Spirit Stones when sold.


    Normally, they had neither the opportunity nor the courage to indulge in such a ughter within the Qingyun Mountains.


    There were even quite a few fierce Cultivators who had already charged into the beast tide, aiming to ambush specific required Demonic Beasts.


    In the next moment, Shiming''s eyes gleamed fiercely, as he saw a Golden-haired Mighty Ape, a Third Rank Demonic Beast, charging frantically towards him from a hundred meters away.


    Just as he anticipated the surge in strength that the Golden Winged Mantis experienced upon advancing to the Third Rank, Shiming likewise hoped the Red-haired Demon Monkey would also break through to the Third Rank.


    And at this moment, there certainly was a great opportunity!


    With plenty of Demonic Beasts and numerous monkeys, obtaining a Third Rank inner core from a monkey-type Demonic Beast would give the Red-haired Demon Monkey aplete chance to advance to the Third Rank!


    ```

 Chapter 121: Chapter 121 The Appearance of the Purple Mansion Great Demon

    Below Qingyun City, with the first wave of Foundation Establishment Cultivators rushing down,


    the beast tide was instantly crushed, leaving behind countless Demonic Beast corpses.


    Many Foundation Establishment and Qi Cultivation Cultivators at the Northern City Gate, while pursuing, also waved their hands grandly, using Telekinesis to clean up the battlefield.


    Lin Shiming was still using his mother-and-child swords from a distance, not engaging in closebat or descending from the city gate, even though powerful Golden Luan Eagles were within sight.


    This time, there was a Golden Core Demon King supervising the battle from behind. For Demonic Beasts, a Purple Mansion Great Demon already possesses significant Spirit Intelligence, and a Golden Core Demon King, with its thousands of years of beastly experience, has intelligence not the slightest bit inferior to that of a human sage.


    Moreover, his performance was more suited to someone who had just made a breakthrough to Foundation Establishment. In contrast, Lin Xianzhi, acting as the deputymander, was traversing back and forth across the battlefield, with many Demonic Beast carcasses falling to his de and entering his Storage Bag. Experience tales at mvl


    After a wave of the beast tide receded, all the Foundation Establishment Cultivators showed faces full of joy!


    Especially some Foundation Establishment Loose Cultivators, as well as those from Xuzhou or Qingzhou, felt that this trip was extremely worthwhile, having in a few Third Rank Demonic Beasts and already reaping thousands of Spirit Stones.


    Those Foundation Establishment Cultivators who hadn''t ventured out were part serious and solemn, while a small group started to show a slight sense of regret on their faces.


    Even Lin Shiming keenly noticed that the Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family behind him also wore expressions of regret.


    Lin Shiming didn''t say much, but he remembered the few demon monkeys from before; aside from the Golden Luan Eagles, he had also spotted two Third Rank Fire Apes!


    Although not every Third Rank Demonic Beast has an inner core, given therge numbers, they were bound to appear.


    As for avian Third Rank Demonic Beasts, he didn''t go looking for them, as the potential of the Golden Luan Eagle was no longer sufficient to warrant further cultivation.


    In his observations, he also casually threw out some Iron Thorn seeds, mixed with quite a few Purple Gold Vine seeds.


    These seeds were all imbued with his spare spiritual energy during the initial wave of the beast tide.


    "Everyone, quickly sit and recover. More Demonic Beasts are gathering in the distance!" Lin Xianzhi on the city walls also continuously instructed everyone.


    In terms of recovery, the Foundation Establishment Cultivators were clear-minded and had already swallowed Elixirs to restore True Yuan, with no need for reminders.


    However, some Foundation Establishment cultivator families from Yunzhou couldn''t help but chuckle upon seeing Lin Shiming, indeed a newly advanced Foundation Establishment Cultivator using a Third Rank Magic Artifact with such immense consumption.


    In contrast to Lin Xianzhi, it''s like heaven and earth!


    At the base of the city wall, anotherrge group of Demonic Beasts surged forward. However, this time the Demonic Beasts were once again Second Rank and First Rank, purely employing a tactic of overwhelming numbers.


    The Foundation Establishment Cultivators on the walls didn''t make a move, letting the Qi Cultivators defend the city. After Lin Shiming transmitted a message to Lin Houyong, he also requested they attack from the walls at long range.


    The Second Rank beast tide came swiftly and left even quicker, with Qingyun City again beating the stragglers, and many Cultivators leaped down the walls, brandishing their swords in pursuit!


    They collected countless Demonic Beast materials, and even at that moment, Demonic Beast meats, which filled Storage Bags, were left untouched by anyone.


    After another adjustment, this time everyone felt as if the ground were shaking. Dust and smoke rose in the distance, and countless Third Rank Demonic Beasts could be seen charging forward!


    The sky was once again overtaken by Third Rank aerial demonic creatures.


    They attacked fiercely.


    This wave of attacks was clearly more violent, with more Third Rank Demonic Beasts, and Lin Shiming saw many more Third Rank monkey-like Demonic Beasts!


    This made him also feel delighted, thinking that with so many monkey Demonic Beasts, if there were still no Third Rank Demonic Beast Inner Cores, then it was simply fated that the Red-haired Demon Monkeys would not break through to the Third Rank!


    "Activate the Formation!" As the beast tide approached, Xie An on the city walls shouted loudly, and the Direct Disciples of the Qingxuan Sect behind him danced with several gs, casting numerous Spirit Arts. Suddenly, swords of True Essence appeared on the Spirit Shield above the city walls!


    It was a formation within a formation, a Third Rank offensive formation within a Fourth Rank Supreme Grade Formation!


    A massive swarm of True Essence Swords descended, instantly causing a rain of blood. The Demonic Beasts at the forefront couldn''t withstand it at all!


    And following that, the Foundation Establishment cultivators also began to deploy various methods, with countless sword lights cutting through the air, mixed with all sorts of spells and magic artifacts!


    In an instant, the beast tide was repelled once again!


    "Charge!" someone shouted, and the Foundation Establishment cultivators leapt down from the city walls once again, employing their techniques to encircle and annihte the remaining Third Rank Demonic Beasts.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming held nothing back. He formed a hand seal, and suddenly countless Iron Thorn shrubs appeared, specifically targeting the Demonic Monkey he had set his sights on; the Iron Thorns were also instantly shot out.


    Second Rank Superior Grade vines naturally couldn''t injure Third Rank Demonic Beasts.


    However, the lethal threat wasn''t from Iron Thorns, but from the Third Rank Purple Gold Vines!


    Along with several sounds of breaking through the air, countless golden spear-like vines burst from the ground, instantly piercing through three Third Rank Fire Apes, two Mighty Golden Apes, and two Third Rank ck Apes.


    All the wounds were straight through the brain, with the tips of the spears gleaming with golden light. Seeing this, Lin Shiming was extremely satisfied. Indeed, these were Third Rank vine seeds from a Purple Mansion cultivator''s abode, with effects that were surprisingly good.


    Their attack power was no less than an Intermediate Grade Third Rank Flying Sword!


    In such a chaotic battle, they were especially effective!


    Only then did the Third Rank Purple Vines emerge from the ground, binding the bodies of the ughtered Demonic Monkeys and sending them up to the city gate, where Lin Shiming collected them.


    Although he didn''t want to draw attention, he wanted even less for the city to fall!


    Because he noticed that among those who had rushed down from the city, few were from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Even though the cultivators of the Qingxuan Sect were rich andcked no Spirit Stones, it certainly wasn''t the case that ordinary disciples had no need for them.


    Indeed, almost as soon as he had collected the bodies of the Demonic Beasts, before he could check for any Demonic Beast Inner Cores,


    he suddenly sensed from beneath the ground a surge of Spirit Might!


    "Uncle Seven, be careful of the ground, there are Demonic Beasts that know the Earth Escape Skill!"


    Lin Shiming shouted loudly as a warning, and Lin Xianzhi quickly made his way back to the city walls, while the other cultivators realizing they had been tricked, understood immediately.


    In an instant, they wanted to fly back, but at that moment they saw from within the ground countless earthy yellow giant pythons, as well as lizards, poisonous scorpions, and more!


    At that moment, the entire battlefield seemed to have be a realm of venomous creatures, with quite a few Foundation Establishment cultivators seeing their Spirit Shields prated and dying tragically on the spot.


    Decades of cultivation vanished in a single day!


    Moreover, many cultivators were about to escape back onto the city walls when suddenly, two hundred-zhang-long giant pythons emerged from the ground!


    Four Rank Purple Mansion Great Demons, the two giant pythons opened their enormous mouths, a terrifying suction force emanated, as if the whole heaven and earth were being drawn inside!


    Many Foundation Establishment cultivators had their Spirit Shields shattered in an instant and were sucked away by the force!


    This included even somete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators!


    "Devil spawn!"


    As the two Purple Mansion Great Pythons made their appearance, Zi Xuan Hermit stepped forward from behind Xie An, three purplew swords emerged from behind him, flying into the air and instantly bing hundred-zhang-long beams of sword light, shing towards the two giant pythons.


    Behind him, numerous disciples of the Qingxuan Sect finally stepped off the city walls, hurling various flying swords and magic artifacts in a frenzy, with colorful spells bombarding and instantly engulfing those earth-based Demonic Beasts!


    Clearly, the Qingxuan Sect''s cultivators, whether in terms of magic artifacts or cultivation techniques and spells, were notparable to those of the other Foundation Establishment families and Loose Cultivators.


    The Third Rank Demonic Beasts were decimated in the blink of an eye!

 Chapter 122: Chapter 122 Kidnapped

    Three sword lights were extremely terrifying; a group of Foundation Establishment cultivators didn''t even dare to look at them directly.


    The next moment, there was a huge boom!


    Two Purple Mansion Great Serpents were directly cut in half at the waist, setting off a rain of blood that poured down like a waterfall.


    However, the very next moment, yellow light surged again from the bodies of the two Great Serpents, and instantly, another tail appeared!


    "An immortal body of a Purple Mansion Great Demon?" Zi Xuan Hermit narrowed his eyes slightly, as the three swords had already flown back to him.


    Before Zi Xuan Hermit could take action again, the two Purple Mansion Serpents soared into the sky.


    Zi Xuan Hermit didn''t immediately pursue them, but the two serpents, exhibiting fearless confidence, began to cast spells. Their wide-open snake mouths restored the Spirit Light, and atop the Fourth Rank Spirit Shield, numerousrge yellow hills began to smash down,


    forcing Zi Xuan Hermit to shatter them with his Flying Sword!


    On the walls of North City, the cultivators were also stunned by Zi Xuan Hermit''s strength, befitting a Sword Cultivator Hermit with a widespread reputation from Heavenly Sword Peak.


    With one sword strike, he had cut in half two Purple Mansion Great Demons.


    At the same time, they were shocked by the intelligence of the Demonic Beasts; clearly, they intended to lure Zi Xuan Hermit out.


    Lin Shiming, on the city wall, was not far from Lin Xianzhi. In his vicinity were the disciples of Qingxuan Sect, all appearing quite at ease.


    Whereas on his side, quite a few Foundation Establishment family Qi Cultivation disciples showed despair on their faces, regardless of whether they would win against the beast tide.


    Their families had all lost Foundation Establishment great cultivators.


    "Sigh!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but sigh, clearly, those Foundation Establishment families had be the expendable ones.


    The onset and conclusion of the beast tide were evidently under the control of the Golden Core Demon Kings and the Golden Core True Persons of the Three Sects.


    The Three Sects were morally in the wrong, and the Demonic Beasts needed flesh and death to quell their rage!


    Seeing no effect, the Purple Mansion Great Demons once again summoned Third Rank Beasts and Second Rank Beasts to assault the Formation.


    One day, two days!


    Arge number of Demonic Beasts died, and the casualties among Foundation Establishment cultivators were even greater; quite a few disciples from Qingxuan Sect also perished.


    During this period, Lin Shiming was still searching for Third Rank Spirit Monkeys, and then collected their bodies. However, Third Rank Spirit Monkeys possessing an inner core were exceedingly rare; after killing more than twenty, not one had an inner core! Find your next read on mvl


    His Storage Bag was somewhat not filled to capacity.


    On the fourth day, several War Treasure Ships flew in from a distance!


    One of the ships was flying the banner of the Spirit Beast Sect, the Azure Dragon White Moon, and another ship was flying the banner of the Golden Sun Treasure Book, indeed the War Treasure Ships of the Spirit Beast Sect and the Spirit Talisman Secting to reinforce.


    As the two ships approached, a terrifying Spirit Might suppressed all the powerful beings!


    In an instant, the Demonic Beasts all retreated ten miles!


    Clearly, on both ships, there were beings of the same level as the Heavenly Sword True Person.


    With the support of the two sects, the situation on the city walls became much more rxed in facing the beast tide.


    But the number of beasts in the tide did not diminish at all.


    Meanwhile, the amount of Fourth Rank Purple Mansion Great Demons also started to increase.


    And on North City Gate, the Foundation Establishment cultivators knew of four Purple Mansion cultivators and one beast.


    Among them were two from Qingxuan Sect, Zi Xuan Hermit, another Golden Light Hermit, a Hermit from the Spirit Beast Sect and his Fourth Rank Spirit Beast, plus a Purple Mansion Hermit from the Spirit Talisman Sect.


    The situation seemed to be improving, but Lin Shiming was still filled with worry!


    The beast tide surged once more, and this time, at the forefront was a giant six-winged mantis. Except for the color, it was strikingly simr to his own Golden Winged Mantis.


    "This is the Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis, ranked eighty-ninth on the Heavenly Earth Spirit Insect Rankings!" Lin Shiming felt extremely shocked in his heart; he had not expected a Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis, ranked eighty-ninth, to appear in the beast tide!


    The demon monkey''s inner core wasn''t found, but this six-winged mantis would unquestionably be of great aid to the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Especially since thetter could also consume Beast Nurturing Pills and was far from reaching its limit.


    And the mantis before him confirmed his intuition, being a Third Rank mid-phase Demonic Beast with both speed and explosive power that were extremely terrifying.


    Its two massive cyan scythe-like limbs were exceptionally sharp!


    However, as everyone was bracing forbat, expecting to rely on the city walls and Formations for defense as before, a swarm of terrifying flying ants appeared at some point.


    The flying ants darted out in the blink of an eye and pounced on the Spirit Shield Formation just as quickly.


    The next moment, arge hole was violently gnawed into that Spirit Shield.


    "Rank Seventy-eight Spirit-devouring Ants!" Lin Shiming''s face changed dramatically.


    These Demonic ants were notoriously known as barrier-breaking Spirit-devouring ants, especially fond of feasting on Spirit Shield materials; on the list of heaven and earth Spirit Insects, they were also an existence that inspired great terror, as no Spirit Formation could ward off this swarm of Demonic ants.


    Arge number of Demonic Beasts flooded in through the gap in the Spirit Shield.


    And almost simultaneously with the appearance of the breach, a whole ten Purple Mansion Great Demons flew over from afar, and the four Purple Mansion Hermits, unable to sweep them aside in time, could only issue orders and then resolutely meet the battle against the Fourth Rank Purple Mansion Great Demons.


    "Xie An, take people and eliminate that swarm of flying ants!"


    The first to act were the people of the Spirit Beast Sect, who also clearly recognized the reputation of these Spirit-devouring ants and charged out in a frenzy, with numerous jade Magic Artifacts flying from their hands!


    This was also the only weakness of Spirit-devouring ants noted on the Spirit Insect list: they were unable to devour jade artifacts, otherwise, it would have been very likely for these Spirit Insects to rank in the top fifty!


    Meanwhile, the disciples of the Qingxuan Sect had already charged into the midst of the beast tide.


    Lin Shiming was also extremely interested in the Spirit-devouring ants, but choosing betweenpeting with the Spirit Beast Sect, he decisively gave up.


    Instead, he targeted the six-winged demon mantis.


    The six-winged demon mantis was incredibly fast, so Lin Shiming decisively made his move, and this time, he directly catalyzed a full ten Purple Gold Vines.


    The root spearheads of the Purple Gold Vines were not the first to be stimted; rather, it was the vines themselves that, in the blink of an eye, transformed into enormous tendrils,pletely sealing off all angles for the six-winged mantis and isting the other Demonic Beasts.


    With its staggering speed and surprising attack power, not a single Purple Gold Vine could ensnare the six-winged demon mantis¡ªall were torn apart one by one.


    But it should be noted that each Purple Gold Vine was in fact a bundle; not only were there countless strands, but also a full ten bundles, tightly encircling it in multipleyers inside and out!


    And not only that, but this time, Lin Shiming took out a Fire g.


    The tiny g, with a wave of his hand, quickly turned into a three to four meter tall fiery red banner, with mes flowing on its surface, radiating intense waves of heat.


    With a wave of the Fire g, all of the Purple Gold Vines were immediately set aze, and the fire was greatly assisted by the wood!


    In an instant, the six-winged mantis was burned so badly that it let out pitiful cries.


    It was then that countless golden Spirit Roots shot out from under the ground, aiming straight for the six-winged mantis.


    Boom, boom!


    The six-winged mantis had already dodged, but in the mes, it hesitated, and many of the Purple Gold Vine spearheads pierced through it.


    Lin Shiming''s brow instantly rxed.


    Just at that moment, suddenly a Storage Bag flew out, releasing brilliant light into the sky, and with a transformation of light, the six-winged mantis was directly captured inside.


    Lin Shiming nced over and saw a Spirit Beast Sect disciple d in a brocade robe decorated with Spirit Beast motifs, extremely satisfied as he took the bag.


    Without the slightest bit of embarrassment for stealing the beast, he did not even give Lin Shiming a nce.


    Afterward, the Spirit Beast Sect disciple flew back into the fray with the Spirit-devouring ants to start extracting them!


    Lin Shiming''s face was gloomy, and in his eyes, there emerged an inexplicable surge of killing intent.


    This was his first time being robbed of a monster and battle spoils!

 Chapter 123 The City Falls

    The scene was still in utter chaos, and few paid attention to Lin Shiming, as he was just a cultivator who had recently entered the Foundation Establishment stage.


    On the contrary, cultivators were quite eager to follow those from the Spirit Beast Sect and the Spirit Talisman Sect. Even though they couldn''t kill the more valuable demonic beasts, scavenging weaker ones without the fear of falling was indeed fortunate.


    Lin Shiming put away the Fiery g, and once again attacked with his mother and child swords, as if nothing had happened.


    In the next moment, a demonic monkey appeared in the distance, wounded by Lin Shiming''s mother sword, as well as the child sword that appeared out of thin air, and the monkey turned tail and ran.


    "Abomination, where do you think you''re going!" Lin Shiming leaped off the city wall for the first time, brandishing the Fiery g in his hand once more, casting a scorching red light.


    The sky-high mes caught up with the demonic monkey in the blink of an eye, burning it alive.


    Incidentally, a few nearby Third Rank demonic beasts were also burnt.


    Lin Shiming symbolically picked up the various spirit beast materials on the ground!


    Afterward, he didn''t linger but leaped back onto the city wall.


    It was amon sight during this beast tide for a cultivator to simply leave the city gate to collect materials from spirit beasts.


    Where the Spirit Shield had shattered was an extremely brutal site, where the demonic beastsunched their fiercest attacks. The ce was littered with Third Rank demonic beasts, against which the cultivators from the Three Sects along with those from Yunzhou who had reached the Foundation Establishment stage fought desperately.


    A good number of the spirit-devouring ants in the sky had also been exterminated. At the same time, several were collected into jade boxes by the cultivators from the Spirit Beast Sect.


    Among them was a cultivator in brocade.


    The brocade-d cultivator wore a smile, gentle and refreshing like a spring breeze, as he continued to move among the beasts, asionally snatching demonic beasts from familial Foundation Establishment cultivators, with no one daring to say a word.


    With his mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivation level, along with his identity as a disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect, no one dared to provoke him.


    The next moment, when he swept his divine sense around, he spotted an unusual leopard-type demonic beast. His eyes sparkled, and first, he cast a red giant tower magic artifact to suppress it.


    Then he took out a bag-like magic artifact, threw it into the air, and with repeated bursts of rosy light, he captured the leopard-type demonic beast inside the bag.


    The brocade-d cultivator, extremely satisfied, put away the bag, weighed it for a bit, and then calmly hung it on his waist.


    However, the next moment, the brocade-d cultivator''s brow furrowed sharply. He took out a Jade Ruyi and transformed it into a Spirit Shield. The shield had barely formed when a streak of golden light probed out of nowhere.


    Boom!


    Stay tuned to mvl


    A terrifying, ear-splitting sound of metal slicing through the air, and the Spirit Shield broke instantly!


    In the next moment, the brocade-d cultivator was beheaded with a single stroke.


    The flying head of the brocade-d cultivator was full of shock and disbelief.


    In the moment of his downfall, he was still searching his mind for a kind of golden mantis that could turn invisible.


    Unfortunately, he never found out what kind of demonic beast the Golden Winged Mantis was!


    The golden Spirit Light came quickly and left just as fast, but it still terrified everyone.


    A newly emerged demonic beast that could turn invisible and had an extremely terrifying attack was, without a doubt, the most frightening.


    "Everyone be careful, there is a demonic beast that can turn invisible!" Everyone began to deploy defensive measures, even forming indiscriminate attacks in their surroundings.


    After a moment, and then another, seeing no sign of the golden demonic beast reappearing, the crowd finally rxed.


    Half an hour had passed, and Lin Shiming once again leaped down from the city wall, ying a Demonic Monkey.


    Purple Gold Vines encased Lin Shiming, shielding himpletely, and after a short while, he sighed and flew back onto the city wall.


    He continued to clench an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone in his hand while still controlling the Mother and Son Swords, his face pale, but he fought and retreated nheless.


    From time to time, the secondary swords blocked hits for the Lin Family''s Qi Cultivators.


    On the contrary, at this moment Lin Xianzhi with one hand wielding the Lotus Sword unleashed countless lotus Sword Qi, ying many Third Rank Demonic Beasts.


    And at this time, a terrifying noise suddenly erupted from the West City wall; Lin Shiming extended his Divine Sense and was shocked to discover that the West City wall had been breached.


    Clearly, the Spirit-Devouring Ants were everywhere, and the Demonic Beasts were determined to break through the city and massacre!


    Atop the West City wall, three Purple Mansion Great Demons were directly ughtering from above the ramparts.


    "Slice!" A formidable Sword Intent emerged once more, and Lin Shiming felt as if the entire world was transformed into swords.


    Wherever the Sword Light went, the Demonic Beasts melted like spring snow disappearing into nothingness, and even the three Purple Mansion Great Demons died instantaneously.


    They didn''t even manage to roar before dying.


    Meanwhile, in the sky, a Golden Winged Roc that blotted out the sky, a mountainous Through-Arm Ape, in addition to a Spirit Light-bright, emerald-eyed Golden Tiger and a Three-Headed Demon Python¡ªall four Golden Core Demon Kings appeared. Simultaneously within Qingyun City, three Golden Core True Persons also emerged, ascending beyond the Jiuxiao, unleashing a terrifying Fifth Rank war!


    The magnitude of the power was such that everyone felt as if the sky was copsing, and the earth shattering, with the aftershocks alone being too fierce even for the Purple Mansion Cultivators to dare face head-on!


    The fearsome tumult caused a severe tremor throughout the vicinity of Qingyun City, and even some houses not reinforced with formations began to copse and shatter.


    Some of the Qi Cultivators in the early and middle stages, as well as First Rank and Second Rank Demonic Beasts, were so oppressed by the Spirit Might that they struggled to breathe, let alone fight.


    The East City gate too was incredibly gruesome, with countless Cultivators dying, and numerous Third Rank and Fourth Rank Demonic Beasts swarming in.


    At this moment at the East City gate, five or six War Treasure Ships appeared; countless attack formations,bined with the frenzied throwing of Spirit Talismans from the Spirit Talisman Sect, managed to keep the situation at the gate from bing utterly desperate.


    The pressure on Lin Shiming also dramatically increased. Apart from the Mother and Son Swords, he pulled out the Fiery g and the Kuimu Shield, three pieces of Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts, and with the asional appearance of the Purple Gold Vines, he managed to avoid being in apletely sorry state.


    However, he had to keep an eye on the Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family, who also looked quite pale.


    As the deputymander, Lin Xianzhi was still fighting valiantly at the forefront, bathing in blood. His Sword Dao realm, which allowed for Sword Light Transformation, enabled him to disy great valor at the East City gate.


    By his side, Xie An was even stronger. Though his Sword Dao realm wasn''t as high as Lin Xianzhi''s, his Sword Techniques and Secret Techniques were far superior, allowing him to single-handedly hold back a Purple Mansion Great Demon that had just entered the Purple Mansion stage!


    In the end, the crisis inevitably arrived. The Cultivators terrifyingly realized thatpared to the Purple Mansion Great Demons, there were far too few Purple Mansion Cultivators. Yunzhou no longer had any Purple Mansion Families, thus, no Purple Mansion Cultivators existed there.


    Not many from the Three Sects arrived either, and it was only the War Treasure Ships that were holding out against the pressure.


    At that moment, a Third Rankte-stage Green Bull Demonic Beast fiercely charged towards Lin Shiming''s position.


    Lin Shiming was greatly rmed; being only at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, he quickly took out the Tiangang Sword Formation!


    One hundred and eight magical swords appeared, instantly forming a gigantic Tiangang Formation Sword in the void.


    He crazily shed towards the Green Bull, and with every strike, a significant portion of his True Yuan depleted!


    Fortunately, Lin Shiming had two Spirit tforms, which allowed his True Yuan to not be reduced by much.


    But the Green Bull''s horns were terrifying to the extreme, as if they possessed a spirit-breaking effect, directly knocking away the Tiangang Formation Sword, even shattering many of the Formation Patterns on the sword.


    Seeing the Green Bull drawing near, Lin Shiming once more sent out nine Formation Swords, immediately creating a surrounding Sword Array. Layers of purple light transformed into countless Sword Qis, slicing towards the Green Bull.


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 124: Chapter 124 Li Family Li Chuanhuan

    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation might not be as offensive as the Tiangang Sword Formation, but in terms of trapping and distracting the enemy, it was even more effective.


    For a moment, the Third-Rankte-stage Green Ox couldn''t break through the sword array.


    It only mmed into a myriad of vanishing purple lights, its True Yuan dissipated, but the formation swords continued to surge forth with unending True Yuan.


    Countless sword qi continued to sh towards the Green Ox.


    Meanwhile, Lin Xianzhi leaped forward, and with his Qinglian Sword, he directly slew the Green Ox Demonic Beast.


    The terrifying strength of a sword cultivator also filled Lin Shiming with envy.


    "Shiming, fight and retreat! We can''t hold on any longer!" Lin Xianzhi''s voice appeared in Lin Shiming''s mind.


    Lin Shiming nodded. Given the current situation, it was only a matter of time before the city would fall, so he also transmitted his voice to the remaining Qi Cultivators of his n.


    At the scene, not only the family''s younger generation was retreating, but even the Sect disciples were gradually falling back.


    The once towering walls had also been trampled into disrepair by the Demonic Beasts.


    Everyone couldn''t help but look towards the sky, hoping for a miracle to appear on the horizon.


    However, at that moment, another Golden Core Demon King appeared in the sky.


    A total of five Golden Core Demon Kings were fighting against three Golden Core True Persons from the Three Sects, and even the one from the Spirit Beast Sect had summoned a Fifth-Rank Spirit Beast, still putting them in a precarious situation!


    And as soon as the Fifth-Rank Spirit Beast emerged, the five Demon Kings of the Qingyun Mountain Range seemed to feel a great humiliation and attacked even more fiercely.


    The entire sky was upied by sword lights and various spells intertwined.


    The asional release of Spirit Might could easily y Purple Mansion cultivators or Fourth-Rank Great Demons.


    Under Lin Shiming''smand, the Lin Family members also moved closer to the Qingxuan Sect disciples; since Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming were both nominal disciples and had an unusual rtionship with Xie An, the Qingxuan Sect disciples did not say anything, turning a blind eye.


    Just then, to Lin Shiming''s surprise, a system prompt appeared.


    "Please carefully search among the city-defending cultivators, and you will discover remnants of the Li Family and a damaged Fifth-Rank Demon Banner Magical Treasure."


    Lin Shiming was somewhat stunned. He had not expected that, in this battlefield, there would still be cultivators of the Li Family. He was puzzled; where did the Li Family get the courage to appear on the battlefield?


    You should know that the Qingxuan Sect had already issued a wanted notice for the Li Family.


    Not to mention being here, the Li Family probably didn''t even dare to linger in Yunzhou.


    Even Li Chuanhuan, the old ancestor of the Li Family, was only a Purple Mansion Middle Stage cultivator. In the current Qingyun City, where Golden Core True Persons existed, how could he dare to be present?


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    Lin Shiming''s heart was pounding fiercely. If it were any other time, he would''ve let it go, pretending nothing had happened.


    The appearance of a Fifth-Rank Demon Banner indicated that the person from the Li Family must be Li Chuanhuan.


    He, a mere Foundation Establishment cultivator who couldn''t even beat ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, how could he dare to expose him at this time?


    Still, he had no idea what Magical Treasure Li Chuanhuan was using that even the Divine Sense of a Golden Core True Person was unable to detect it.


    But at the same time, he thought that if he didn''t expose the situation and let Li Chuanhuan mingle in the crowd, who knows if once Li Chuanhuan left, he woulde at him with a sword.


    In the eyes of the Li Family, he, Lin Shiming, was not a small threat.


    The presence of Li Chuanhuan at the East City gate was telling in itself.


    For a Purple Mansion cultivator to assassinate a Foundation Establishment cultivator was indeed easy as pie, effortless.


    Lin Shiming spread out his Divine Sense and meticulously searched each cultivator, feeling at this moment that anyone around him could be Li Chuanhuan.


    But after one quarter of an hour, then two, Lin Shiming found no trace at all.


    Not a hint of the Li Family was found.


    "No, the Demon Banner!" Lin Shiming suddenly thought of the prompt, and another keyword.


    He looked around again, but frustratingly, after searching all the Foundation Establishment and Purple Mansion cultivators, he still didn''t find anyone using a Demon Banner to attack.


    "Be careful!" Suddenly Lin Xianzhi''s voice rang in his mind, and at the same time, a huge Third Rank tiger demon lunged towards him.


    The Sword Qi of the Qinglian Sword repelled the tiger demon, and Lin Shiming was instantly overjoyed. He took out the Tiangang Sword Formation and shed at the tiger demon.


    The tiger demon, just a Third Rank Early Stage Demonic Beast, could not withstand the assault of the one hundred and eight swords of Lin Shiming''s Tiangang Sword Formation.


    It was instantly chopped into pieces, but at that moment, he saw a wisp of spirit essence flee into the ground.


    Lin Shiming was full of doubts. Only Purple Mansion cultivators could separate their spirits, so how could a Third Rank beast possess spirit essence?


    Curious, Lin Shiming used his Divine Sense to follow it, only to discover countless spirit essences and the lingering souls of cultivators dazedly flying towards a spot deep underground.


    Thinking of the Demon Banner, Lin Shiming once again concentrated his Divine Sense and followed.


    The deeper he pursued, the more his heart sank, until a thousand meters underground, he found a palm-sized g.


    The small g was inconspicuous, much like an ordinary piece of cloth, and when touched by Divine Sense, there were no fluctuations of Spiritual Power.


    But Lin Shiming could feel that all the spirit essences and lingering souls were entering this small g and then disappearing without a trace.


    "This Demon Banner..." Lin Shiming was even more shocked. ording to this pattern, it was clearly a Fifth Rank Demon Banner Magical Treasure, repairing itself through the souls and spirit essences.


    Or it could be a Demon Cultivator cultivating the Magical Treasure.


    But ording to the system prompt, the former seemed much more likely.


    As his Divine Sense covered the small g, Lin Shiming suddenly shuddered.


    Out of nowhere, a sword was already shing towards him.


    The sword moved too swiftly; by the time Lin Shiming could react, it was already upon him.


    Boom!


    A sh of golden light in the void, and two massive scythes shed out from thin air.


    It was the Golden Winged Mantis, bolstered by the Taoist robe.


    Yet, the previously undefeated golden scythes were instantly shattered upon contact with the light sword.


    Such was the might of the light sword.


    Yet this slight pause had given Lin Shiming a moment''s respite.


    The Kuimu Shield opened, followed by various Spirit Talismans. Most importantly, at this moment, Lin Xianzhi had already drawn the Qinglian Sword to his side.


    He executed the Ren Shui Geng Jian technique to its limit. His head full of white hair danced wildly,


    and the skinless Sword Qi condensed into a Green Gold Sword Light.


    Finally, with a thunderous st, the iing sword was blocked.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, that man is Li Chuanhuan, the chief instigator of this incident. He must not be allowed to escape!" Lin Shiming shouted sharply.


    Not far from them, the cultivator who was originally from a small family n immediately stopped concealing his figure, transforming into a yellow Escape Light and zooming towards the ground.


    "Beneath us is a Fifth Rank iplete Magical Treasure collecting lingering souls!" Lin Shiming saw that many cultivators remained indifferent, and with Li Chuanhuan being a Purple Mansion Great Cultivator, no one dared to stop him.


    Also, all the Purple Mansion cultivators from the Three Sects were being blocked by a Purple Mansion Great Demon.


    But as Lin Shiming''s voice rang out, the whole world boiled over.


    Below was a Fifth Rank Magical Treasure.


    That was somethingparable to a Golden Core Cultivator''s possession.


    While this Fifth Rank Magical Treasure might not attract ordinary disciples, to the Cultivators of the Three Sects, it was the greatest treasure.


    After all, their Golden Core ancestors were above, and securing the Fifth Rank Magical Treasure could surely earn them merit from the Golden Core True Persons.

 Chapter 125: Chapter 125 Shen Ji True Person

    In an instant, a number of people rushed toward the underground.


    The most powerful among them was a direct disciple of the Qingxuan Sect, who was, like Xie An, at the peak of the Foundation Establishment stage, but at this moment, using a mysterious secret technique, he had boosted his aura to the level of the Purple Mansion.


    He too plunged into the ground.


    Li Family remnants must be executed!


    The Fifth Rank magical treasure naturally belongs to Heavenly Sword True Person!


    "Come at me, the Nine Sons Demon Banner is just short of souls!" Li Chuanhuanughed loudly, not the least bit concerned.


    Underground, he directly released earth-based spells, instantly killing the other cultivators buried within.


    Only the cultivator who had used the secret technique to reach the level of the Purple Mansion, along with a few at the peak of Foundation Establishment, barely managed to resist.


    Then, he was seen taking a ck g from the ground and leaping back to the surface.


    Under his control, the palm-sized g suddenly transformed into a massive banner that was three to four zhang tall.


    On the banner, nine ink-stained fearsome demon heads came to life, with countless demon souls'' shadows flickering in and out of existence.


    A single nce was like peering into the Asura Hell, exceedingly terrifying.


    The next moment, swarms of demon heads emerged from the banner, hanging high in the void, like the gate to hell itself.


    Lin Shiming was also greatly shocked; he did not expect Li Chuanhuan to not flee but instead to brazenly confront the Three Great Sects.


    To massively ughter the disciples of all three sects.


    Many cultivators were preupied with fighting the demonic beasts and never anticipated such a sudden influx of ghostly heads and demon souls!


    Many fell dead on the spot, and their souls were once again absorbed by the Nine Sons Demon Banner.


    In a blink, the entire East City gate resembled a purgatory.


    Lin Shiming and others who were prepared, had already retreated from the East City gate.


    Knowing it was a Fifth Rank magical treasure, even if it was damaged, it was not something Foundation Establishment cultivators could contend with; even if someone from Purple Mansion arrived, Lin Shiming had no confidence that they could stop Li Chuanhuan.


    Lin Xianzhi also retreated with him, for they were only nominal disciples and had encountered an attack by the demon head on the city wall, where they could only serve as nourishment for the demon banner.


    Just then, a purple light appeared in the sky, and three long purple swords descended, shing towards the Nine Sons Demon Banner.


    It was none other than Zi Xuan Hermit, who at that moment, exuded a purple aura like the rising morning sun, looking exceptionally spirited.


    Boom!


    From the Nine Sons Demon Banner, eight great demon heads emerged, each possessing the strength of thete stages of the Purple Mansion, with the strongest one even at the peak of the Purple Mansion.


    The eight demons spewed ck Qi that turned into a ck gale and fiercely blew towards the three Zixia swords.


    For a moment, purple and ck light collided, emitting a thunderous roar that echoed through heaven and earth.


    Eventually, the purple swords flew back while the ck lightpletely dissipated!


    "With not even a Golden Core demon daring to show off in front of me?" Zi Xuan Hermit dered coldly.


    He continued to sh with Li Chuanhuan.


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    From a distance, Lin Shiming still did not return to the city gates. Seeing that Li Chuanhuan had no intention of leaving, he became even more certain of his internal suspicions.


    The Fifth Rank magical treasure couldn''t possibly belong to Li Chuanhuan, and the one who had previously captured the offspring of the Golden Peng Demon King couldn''t have been Li Chuanhuan either. All of this pointed to the fact that among the Demonic Sects of Chu Country, there must be a Golden Core True Person present.


    Yet he couldn''t figure out what the purpose of this Golden Core hermit was ining here, whether it was to instigate a fight between the Demon King and the True Persons or to bring disaster to the people of Yunzhou.


    The next moment, he got his answer as he saw horrifying fluctuations of spiritual power emerging not far from Qingyun City, with billows of ck mist gushing forth.


    Then from amidst it, a pale-faced middle-aged man wearing ck robes walked out.


    Almost simultaneously, within the Qingyun Mountain Range, countless roarings that shook the heavens and earth resounded once more.


    A Cloud Flood Dragon from the marshes soared into the sky as if a true dragon had emerged!


    It then madly charged toward Qingyun City.


    Behind it, more Demon Kings appeared.


    Nearly all the Demon Kings of the entire Qingyun Mountain hade.


    At that moment, the man in the ck robe simply smiled faintly. With a wave of his hand, the Demon Banner, which had been inbat with the Zi Xuan Hermit in the sky, suddenly fell into thetter''s hands.


    "Heavenly Sword, Spirit Cloud, you conspired to gue our Chu Country with the turmoil of the Eastern Sea flood dragons. Today, your Zhao Kingdom shall meet the same fate!" the man in the ck robe said, and then once again produced the Demon Banner which, in an instant, manifested tens of thousands of souls.


    There were also nearly a hundred thousand ordinary vengeful spirits, all evidently mortals sacrificed by the Li Family.


    This sent chills down Lin Shiming''s spine!


    The explosion of vengeful and refined souls in the next moment was about to sweep away both the man in the ck robe and Li Chuanhuan.


    "Thinking of sacrificing a demon to escape through Blood Escape, have you asked my Shen Ji Tower?" However, at that moment, a muffled voice rang out, and suddenly, a terrifyingly gigantic tower that covered the sky appeared in the heavens.


    The tower emitted a thick glow, immediately locking the entire void in ce. Even the blood light formed from the sacrifice of countless demon souls did not allow the man in the ck robe to leave through Blood Escape!


    "Mo Xuan, old demon, leave the Golden Dragon Fruit behind!" A figure walked out of the void, none other than the Shen Ji True Person of the Qingxuan Sect''s Shen Ji Peak.


    "Shen Ji, weren''t you in closed-door cultivation? How are you here?" Mo Xuan True Person''s face was extremely unsightly at this moment; he had never thought his foolproof n would be thwarted by the Qingxuan Sect.


    But he immediately spoke again:


    "Old Daoist Shen Ji, even if you stabilize the situation in Yunzhou here, how will you stabilize the border between Zhao and Chu?"


    Shen Ji True Person did not immediately respond but turned his head to look at the others engaged in the fierce battle in the void.


    "Fellow demonic race, let''s stop and talk as well, why suffer over a momentary conflict after hundreds of years of cultivation!" The Demon Kings, including Jin Peng, also immediately stopped.


    After speaking and seeing no one ceasing their battles, Shen Ji True Person suddenly unleashed his cultivation level fully. A terrifying wave of spirit might immediately covered the entire heavens and earth.


    "Golden Core Perfection!"


    Mo Xuan''s face turned even paler. Despite all their calctions, they hadn''t expected Shen Ji True Person to achieve Golden Core Perfection.


    The Demon Kings, sensing Shen Ji True Person''s cultivation level, also immediately halted. For now, with three Golden Core True Persons and a Fifth Rank Spirit Beast on the Qingxuan Sect''s side, they were powerless to fight back.


    Especially now, facing Shen Ji True Person.


    "Human race friends, just now, the Cloud Flood Dragon was in a frenzy, and I assume it will also arrive at some point," Jin Peng, the Demon King, also spoke with some trepidation.


    The rage of having their offspring captured was gradually cooling down.


    The breach of Qingyun City was enough to deter the human race.


    ¡­


    The human True Persons and Demon Kings began to negotiate, and Lin Shiming also let out a sigh of relief.


    Then, the following content was dominated by a formation, and he could not learn more about it.


    But it was clearly evident that the beast tide wasing to an end.


    Even more advantageous for the Lin Family was that the Qingxuan Tower was said to be a treasure of the Qingxuan Sect, a Fifth Rank Supreme Grade magical treasure.


    Li Chuanhuan and the demon cultivator Golden Core, naturally, could not escape.


    "Shiming, let''s go back to the family," Lin Xianzhi nced at the family members. Out of the forty Qi Cultivators, only fifteen remained, two-thirds had died.


    These were the elite of the family, after all.

 Chapter 126 Mysterious Book Magical Treasure

    Next to Qinglian Pool, Lin Shiming opened his eyes, exhaling a sigh of turbid breath.


    After three days, he had finally recovered from the beast tide.


    On that day, after he and Lin Xianzhi returned to Fangmu Mountain, they had worked together to repel the invading horde of beasts.


    Fortunately, most of the Third Rank and Fourth Rank Demonic Beasts had been outside Qingyun City, and on Fangmu Mountain of the Lin Family, there were only three Third Rank Demonic Beasts, and all of them were at the early stage.


    With Lin Houyuan and Lin Shijie joining hands, along with the great formation of Fangmu Mountain, they managed to hold on until Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi arrived to help.


    After driving off the Demonic Beasts, Lin Shiming went back up the mountain to heal, while his seventh great-uncle, Lin Xianzhi, went to Nanling Mountain in Lingnan County to assist Lin Houyong in defeating the beast tide.


    With everything in order, Lin Shiming began to tally the gains from the beast tide.


    He first organized the Demonic Beast materials, which included both Second Rank and Third Rank, and after a rough estimate, these materials alone were worth about a hundred thousand Spirit Stones. This value took into ount the sharp decrease due to the excessive ughter of Demonic Beasts that had devalued the materials, otherwise it would have been even more.


    You should know that Lin Shiming had in more than a dozen ape-like Third Rank Demonic Beasts.


    Of course, these materials also stirred Lin Shiming''s interest in artifact refining.


    With the family owning a vein of Golden Iron Stone and so many Demonic Beast materials, plus the stockpile of First Rank and Second Rank Demonic Beasts at the family''s disposal, they would fully support him going far on the path of artifact refining.


    Having collected all the refining materials, Lin Shiming released the Golden Winged Mantis, which looked rather pitiful now. Of its two serrated limbs, only one remained; the other had been blown to pieces by Li Chuanhuan in Qingyun City.


    The Golden Winged Mantis squeaked, its massive body now slightly taller than Lin Shiming. Its triangr head affectionately nuzzled Lin Shiming''s forehead.


    Lin Shiming also stepped back, gently caressing the head of the Golden Winged Mantis. His eyes held a touch of pity as he then took out Healing Pills, fed another one to the Golden Winged Mantis, and gave it arge bowl of Third Rank Spirit Water from Qinglian Pool.


    The Golden Winged Mantis once again crawled up the wall of its stone chamber, while Lin Shiming finally took out a new Storage Bag and a new Spirit Beast Bag.


    Everything inside the Storage Bag and the Spirit Beast Bag had belonged to a disciple from the Spirit Beast Sect in Qingyun City.


    After having the Golden Winged Mantis assassinate the target, he immediately switched out the Storage Bracelet and the Spirit Beast Bracelet below.


    Lin Shiming first opened the Storage Bag and took out a gray cloth Magic Artifact from within.


    The miraculousness of this cloth Magic Artifact was something Lin Shiming had witnessed; the corpse of the Six-Winged Demon Mantis was directly taken in by this cloth Magic Artifact.


    Upon holding the cloth bag, it felt cold to the touch. After infusing True Yuan, he shockingly discovered that this cloth Magic Artifact was actually a Superior Grade Third Rank Magical Artifact.


    Its function was particrly effective against Demonic Beasts. Any Third Rank Demonic Beast that was heavily wounded could be forcefully drawn in, and the Demonic Wind inside the bag would directly kill the beast.


    Of course, this cloth Magic Artifact could also release fierce winds to attack, which couldpare to an ordinary Superior Grade Third Rank Magical Artifact, but the key point was that it didn''t require as much True Yuan as a typical Superior Grade Third Rank artifact did.


    This was another pleasant surprise for Lin Shiming.


    "I''ll name you the Heavenly Demon Bag!" Lin Shiming smiled as he stowed away the cloth Magic Artifact, nning to refine the Heavenly Demon Bag once everything was dealt with.


    Apart from the Heavenly Demon Bag, within the Storage Bag, Lin Shiming found two Intermediate Grade Third Rank magical swords and one Intermediate Grade Third Rank shield.


    The remaining magic artifacts were not impressive enough to catch Lin Shiming''s eye.


    There were also arge number of Demonic Beast materials in the Storage Bag. To his delight, not only was the corpse of the Six-Winged Demon Mantis inside, but there were also many ape-like Demonic Beast bodies. Within the body of a powerful Golden Ape, there was still an unextracted Third Rank inner core.


    This was indeed a case of finding a new path after a dead end; the Red-haired Demon Monkey finally had the chance to promote to a Third Rank Demonic Beast, which would enhance itsbat power significantly.


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    Otherwise, as a Second Rank Demonic Beast, its help was already bing marginal to him.


    If he didn''t stumble upon this opportunity, the Red-haired would likely meet the same fate as the Golden Luan Eagle.


    With a Third Rank inner core in hand, he would then go to the family to request a Demon Core Breaking Elixir. If that still didn''t enable the breakthrough to a Third Rank Demonic Beast, then there was nothing else Lin Shiming could do.


    He put away the demonic beast materials and turned his attention to the Jade Slip.


    Most of the Jade Slips contained the habits of demonic beasts, capturing methods, and some secret formations, which were helpful to Lin Shiming, but not as much as the Beast Taming Primer he had previously obtained from the Wu surname cultivator.


    This made Lin Shiming a bit disappointed, but after thinking it over, he understood that it was impossible for all the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect to carry with them the sect''s secret manuals.


    However, in the next moment, Lin Shiming caught sight of a yellow-covered book, which puzzled him.


    In the world of cultivation, most cultivation techniques and secrets were stored on Jade Slips, which clearly had a longer lifespan than books.


    Yet, when he picked up the book, he was shocked to discover that the book was actually a magic artifact.


    The book was entirely crafted from the hides of mysterious beasts, but upon channeling True Yuan into it, he found that it was a damaged Fourth Rank Magical Treasure.


    This pleasantly surprised him, and upon opening the book, he discovered it contained secret methods for cultivating spirit insects and for encouraging the evolution of Spirit Beasts.


    The entire book had only seven or eight pages, two of which were dedicated to concocting a special elixir that induced Spirit Insects and Spirit Beasts to devour and breed with each other.


    Several other pages contained the secret technique for transferring the bloodline of demonic beasts, a method known as the Blood Demon Ancestral Return Secret Art.


    To Lin Shiming, this was on par with the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique.


    He finally understood why the disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect was capturing precious demonic beasts everywhere - clearly, it was both to purify their bloodlines and to breed rare Spirit Beasts.


    Lin Shiming was so excited that it took him a long time to calm down, and then he thought of the Spirit Ants. Opening the Spirit Beast Bag, he took out a Jade Box, which contained dozens of Spirit Ants buzzing around inside. Since the ants had not devoured Spiritual Energy for a long time and were suppressed by the Spirit Jade, they now appeared listless and no longer as fierce as they had been.


    If these Spirit Ants were well-cultivated, there was no doubt they could achieve the formidable power they demonstrated when breaking the formation back in the day!


    The more Lin Shiming thought about it, the more excited he became, and he could hardly contain himself.


    However, he also knew this was not a matter to be rushed. The Spirit Ants had an extremely fierce nature, and if he dealt with them now, there was no guarantee they wouldn''t rebel in the end. Instead, he chose to continue keeping them inside the Spirit Jade to temper their fierceness.


    He put away the book that was a Magical Treasure and looked through the remaining items in his Storage Bag and Spirit Beast Bag. Inside the Storage Bag were only seventy to eighty thousand Spirit Stones.


    In the Spirit Beast Bag was a Third Rank Demonic Beast that had already recognized a master and had been backfired by the Spirit Contract, losing its value for further cultivation, so he killed it outright and used it as material for Artifact Refining.


    In the corner of the Storage Bag, to his delight, Lin Shiming also discovered two Xue Sha Thunders.


    Xue Sha Thunder was a kind of True Yuan secret thunder condensed by Thunder Attribute cultivators through the consumption of their Essence Blood, a one-time attack item, but it had quite a reputation in the Immortal Cultivation World - it was almostparable to a full-powered strike from ate-stage Foundation Establishment Thunder cultivator.


    Used correctly, it could seriously injurete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also felt somewhat fortunate, as back in the chaos of Qingyun City, it was the sneak attack from the Golden Winged Mantis that was sessful. Otherwise, in a true fight, he might not necessarily have been a match for the disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect.


    To say nothing of anything else, these two Xue Sha Thunders alone could have brought him from the brink of death back to life.

 Chapter 127: Chapter 127 Arrangements

    Fangmu Mountain''s council hall, this time, the Lin Family''s high-ranking members gathered once more.


    Lin Xianzhi had hurried back from Lingnan County, because there were still remnants of Demonic Beasts lingering, Lin Houyong continued to stay there with quite a few disciples.


    And the rest of the Lin Family cultivators had almost once again assembled in the council hall, just like the triennial n meeting.


    Only this time, everyone was sadder, and almost as soon as they gathered, there was a solemn look on everyone''s face as they went to the ancestral hall to start paying respects to the memorial tablets.


    As the Family Head, Lin Shiming stood at the forefront.


    Adding new memorial tablets, offering incense, reciting the eulogy!


    After a sorrowful oration, everyone''s face bore sadness.


    After paying homage to the ancestors, came the family''s constion money.


    "Lin Houzhi, Qi Cultivation eight level, contribution degree eight thousand, recorded in the register, reserved for direct descendants with Spirit Roots!"


    ...


    Lin Shiming announced each of the thirty-eight cultivators who had passed away, and these contribution degrees would also be disclosed fairly, reserved for their direct descendants.


    This inevitably deepened everyone''s grief.


    Even when a rabbit dies, the fox grieves; all the more for n members who had fought side by side.


    But just the same, it was because of the family''s fairness and justice that the cultivators felt an even stronger sense of identification with the n.


    One must know that if a Loose Cultivator were to die, let alone someone taking care of their body or passing on their treasures to progeny.


    As long as they weren''t taken by some demonic cultivator to be a corpse puppet, it would be considered fortunate.


    "The departed are gone, the living must be stronger. The glory of the Lin Family needs to be recreated by those seated here!" Lin Shiming moistened his throat, and spoke out loud again.


    The confidence in his words also inspired many Lin Family descendants to aspire to it.


    "Now, the seventh great-uncle will announce the meritorious contributors¡­"


    After Lin Shiming finished speaking, Lin Xianzhi announced the merits of this asion.


    Of course, only Lin Xianzhi, who had the greatest merit and was the most powerful, could announce the merits:


    "This disaster, a cmity unseen in a century, but fortunately, the Lin Family had everyone''s support, defending the Lin Family''s foundation as well as its dignity!"


    "I announce, the greatest merit this time is for Lin Family Head, Lin Shiming, who has in more than twenty Third Rank Demonic Beasts, and a countless number of Second Rank Demonic Beasts! Contribution Points one hundred thousand, and retaining the materials obtained from Spirit Beasts! The n provides two Third Rank Magic Artifacts for free!"


    "Lin Shijie is the second greatest contributor, having in four Third Rank Demonic Beasts, a countless number of Second Rank Demonic Beasts, and meritoriously defended Fangmu Mountain for the family, Contribution Points sixty thousand, and retaining the materials obtained from Spirit Beasts, the n provides one Third Rank Magic Artifact for free!"


    ...


    The rest of the merits were announced one by one, taking up half a day toplete.


    Each living cultivator had merits, everyone had rewards!


    Afterward, Lin Shiming announced that all Lin Family cultivators must throw themselves into the Demonic Beast extermination battle.


    The Lin Family had already lost nearly a quarter of its cultivators; it was crucial to increase the number of Immortal Cultivators. Therefore, it was necessary to prevent further harm befalling the mortals within the family territory.


    Otherwise, it would affect the quality of the Ascension Conference.


    Once everyone had dispersed and only a few Foundation Establishment cultivators, a group of Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Elders, and the temporary Alchemy Hall Master with Qi Cultivation Eight Level, Lin Houxuan, were left.


    "The beast tide has been confirmed to be over; Shen Ji True Person of Qingxuan Sect has reached an understanding with the Demon King of Qingyun Mountain Range, but at the same time, the demonic sect has started a war on the borders of Chu and Zhao! The two nations havepletely fallen out!" Lin Xianzhi said slowly with a solemn expression.


    This caused everyone''s faces to change suddenly.


    No sooner had the beast tide ended than they encountered the great war between two nations.


    "However, currently, the Qingxuan Sect has promised that unless it is a time of crisis, they will not require Yunzhou''s Foundation Establishment families to deploy cultivators for five years!"


    "At the same time, one year from now, Qingxuan City will hold the Qingxuan Conference in advance. This time they will exchange arge amount of Foundation Establishment Pills, and the starting bid will be directly halved!"


    "Shiming, it''s up to you to make the arrangements!" Lin Xianzhi looked towards Lin Shiming again, his eyes full of admiration at this moment.


    It was both an entrustment and amitment to nurture him fully.


    Lin Shiming also nodded his head, slowly beginning to speak:


    "Elders, in light of this natural disaster, I hope all elders will work together in unity to face this challenge!"


    "Please instruct us, Family Head!" The elders replied in unison.


    "Great Grandfather, as the Elder of the Law Enforcement Hall, I entrust you with the lead responsibility,plemented by Great Uncle''s Demon Hunting Hall, to ensure that no Demonic Beast causes trouble within the boundaries of Xing County!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Fourth Grandfather, as the Elder of the Artifact Refining Hall, you must increase investments into artifact refinement, and strive to turn the materials collected from Demonic Beasts into Spirit Armor and Spirit Weapons! Ensure that the Magic Artifacts of the family''s cultivators are up to the mark!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Uncle Fifteen, the Alchemy Hall also needs to step up the production of elixirs, to be prepared for eventualities. If the border situation with Zhao Chu esctes, we could be deployed to the battlefield at any moment. Henceforth, the family''s focus will be on refining elixirs that enhance cultivation levels, as well as Healing Pills!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Fifth Grandfather, the family''s financial issues will definitely face a shortage due to this battle. We need you to transport most of the Second Rank artifact refinement materials to Xuzhou and Qingzhou; those states have not experienced the beast tides but must go through the border wars with Zhao Chu. Our Spirit Beast materials might not only remain stable in price but could possibly increase!"


    "Additionally, with regards to the family''s Golden Iron Stone, also contact Uncle Five to begin its mining and sale! Uncle Seven made quite the name in the beast tide of Qingyun City, and with the Li Family removed, now is an excellent opportunity for our Lin Family to develop!"


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    "Yes, Family Head!" Lin Yuzheng was also happy toply.


    "Second Uncle, the family''s formations, big and small, have all been damaged. I am entrusting you with forming the Formation Hall to ensure that within half a year, the formations for all our major industries are restored to normal!"


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "The rest of the Foundation Establishment Elders will serve as flexible cultivators, ensuring that at least one is not in cultivation at any given time, ready to deal with any missed Third Rank Demonic Beasts!"


    ...


    Lin Shiming delegated each major task clearly and one by one.


    All the family elders were in huge agreement, and their satisfaction with the twenty-eight-year-old Family Head of the Lin Family grew even more.


    The n meeting thus concluded, and to Lin Shiming''s surprise, Lin Xianzhi took out from his Storage Bag five Third Rank monkey-type Demonic Beast corpses and two Third Rank mantis-type Demonic Insect corpses.


    At the same time, he also produced a Pill Bottle, which contained Limb-Regrowing Pills.


    The efficacy of this elixir was limb regeneration, which naturally also worked on Demonic Beasts.


    "Thank you, Uncle Seven!" Lin Shiming immediately expressed his gratitude.


    If the former corpses were manageable, thetter Limb-Regrowing Pills were Third Rank Superior Grade Elixirs, extremely valuable.


    "No need for formalities!" After saying this, Lin Xianzhi also headed towards the Qinglian Pond Cave Mansion.


    Having not rested for a long time, he too needed to treat his injuries.


    As for Lin Shiming, he went to the Treasure Pavilion to start exchanging for the spiritual materials for the Blood Demon Ancestral Secret Art and the materials for Seduction Demon Pills, which induced Demonic Beasts to devour each other for evolution.


    The former was simply for the Secret Technique, which he himself was capable of executing, while for thetter he could only turn to his Uncle Fifteen, Lin Houxuan, hoping that thetter had already mastered the Formation Artifact Manual and could refine Third Rank Elixirs beyond his level.


    The Blood Demon Ancestral Secret Art focused on the method, as well as the bloodlines of various types of simr Demonic Beasts.


    This time he had almost twenty Third Rank monkey-type Demonic Beast bloodlines, more than enough. After putting together the other spiritual materials in the Treasure Pavilion, he once again entered the cave mansion.

 Chapter 128 Bloodline Reversion Secret Technique

    Within Qinglian Pond Cave Mansion, the furnishings were very simple, with the walls only having monotonous shades of grey and white.


    In front of a stone bed, Lin Shiming sat cross-legged on a cushion.


    This cushion was one of the two he had found inside the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion.


    On the cushion, Lin Shiming discovered that whether he was meditating or practicing secret techniques, his efforts yielded twice the result with half the effort.


    It was precisely because of this that in just a short ten days, he had simted and practiced the Blood Demon Ancestral Secret Art countless times, and with the system''s daily guidance, he had finally mastered it.


    For others, this was nearly impossible; a third-rank secret technique would take months, or even half a year, to master.


    Lin Shiming went to the stone chamber of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, which was now very quiet.


    When he had taken it from Peach Blossom Valley, he was clear that the Spirit Intelligence of the Red-haired Demon Monkey was far superior to other spirit beasts. It was the monkey that had manipted the Profound Water Heavy Mountains, inspiring Lin Shiming to give the Qinglian Taoist Robe to the Golden Winged Mantis.


    No normal cultivator would think of giving a third-rank Taoist robe for a spirit beast to use.


    He also knew that ever since the Golden Winged Mantis had broken through to the third rank, the Red-haired Demon Monkey had not been as lively as before, and within its pale green pupils, there was a hint of anxiety.


    The Golden Luan Eagle had already been trained by Lin Shiming to be the messenger for the family, while also fulfilling the role of a flying demonic beast.


    By now, the demonic monkey had grown over three meters tall. Lin Shiming moved forward and stroked its fur, only able to reach as high as the monkey''s arm.


    But at this moment, the once mischievous Red-haired Demon Monkey surprisingly bent down willingly, letting Lin Shiming stroke its forehead.


    "Put in the effort, live up to the courage to go forward," Lin Shiming murmured, as if speaking to the Red-haired Demon Monkey, yet also as if to himself.


    He then took out a giant bathtub and filled it with a prepared medicinal liquid.


    After pouring the medicinal liquid, he took out several third-rank demonic monkey corpses. The constitution of the Red-haired Demon Monkey leaned toward the earth and fire attributes, so even with bloodline reversion fusion, it could not merge with water and wood attributes.


    Otherwise, with ipatible natures, it would not be a bloodline reversion but a departure from life!


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey nearby called out softly.


    Lin Shiming, as if oblivious, continued pouring medicinal liquid and simultaneously cast Spirit Art.


    It began with rtively simple second-rank Spirit Art, which then gradually evolved into third-rank Spirit Art.


    After a series of ny-nine Spirit Arts were cast, they converged into a single, moreplex Spirit Pattern.


    Once the Spirit Pattern formed, it flowed like a, extremely eerie.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming took out another rtively well-preserved demonic monkey corpse, casting Spirit Art, and with this invocation, a blood-red light filled the sky.


    The Spirit Art he cast was not a righteous one, but rather a demonic art used by demon cultivators to refine essence blood.


    Although Lin Shiming felt aversion toward demon cultivators, he sometimes had to admit that their methods were truly quite effective.


    In the blink of an eye, the entire four to five-meter-tall demonic monkey corpse condensed into a bowl-sized mass of essence blood.


    And the corpse itself shrank into a pile of rotted skin and broken bones.


    Under the control of the Spirit Art, the essence blood fell into the Spirit Net formed by the art, and after being filtered, three drops of bright red Spirit Pattern blood fell into the bathtub.


    As soon as the three drops of blood entered, the originally calm medicinal liquid boiled over as if it had been ignited, continuously bubbling.


    Lin Shiming''s expression solemn, he without hesitation continued casting Spirit Art.


    Ny-nine Spirit Arts continued to circte and solidify.


    One demonic beast.


    Two demonic beasts.


    ...


    Ten demonic beasts!


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was sweating profusely.


    He had executed a total of nine hundred and eighty-one Spirit Arts, forming ten filtering Spirit Formations.


    The pressure on both his True Yuan and spirit was immense.


    However, Lin Shiming couldn''t stop now, otherwise all his efforts would be in vain.


    With thest Spirit Art cast, in that moment, the ten Spirit Nets condensed into a pattern of a monkey''s Spirit Pattern, blending into the medicine liquid.


    In an instant, a red fog filled the sky, and the entire room seemed to be filled with countless monkeys howling, leaping, and tumbling!


    "Go in!" Lin Shiming directed the Red-haired Demon Monkey to enter the bathtub.


    "Ao...!"


    A cry of intense pain emitted.


    Lin Shiming watched the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s face twist in a grotesque howl and silently exited the stone chamber before sealing the Formation tightly.


    After a series of Spirit Arts were finished, the drain on his spirit was enormous, especially since the Spirit Arts towards the end were not Third Rank Early Stage, but Third Rank Late Stage.


    For him to execute them wlessly at the Foundation Establishment Early Stage was already a miracle.


    At this point, all he could do was hope for the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s sess.


    Once the matter with the Red-haired Demon Monkey was settled, he took out a Limb-Regrowing Pill and went to the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The Golden Winged Mantis stilly idle on the wall, which emitted a golden glow.


    After feeding the Limb-Regrowing Pill to the Golden Winged Mantis, it once again showed a desperate impulse for Spirit Food. Lin Shiming first took out the meat of a Third Rank Spirit Beast, then arge bowl of Third Rank Spirit Water, followed by a considerable number of Beast Nurturing Pills.


    Only then did the Golden Winged Mantis calm down, continuing to doze on the wall.


    All over its body, a surge of golden Spirit Light emerged.


    A sickle foot slowly formed at the site of the Golden Winged Mantis''s severed limb, indicating that in less than half a month, its sickle foot would fully recover.


    Lin Shiming finally breathed a sigh of relief and left the stone chamber to start tending to the Spirit nts.


    First, he cared for the cultivated Third Rank Purple Gold Vine, and only after that did he infuse True Yuan into the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree and the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    The Purple Gold Vine was currently his means ofbat, which he tried to cultivate as much as possible.


    Three days passed, and Lin Shiming suddenly heard a series of booming noises from within the stone chamber.


    Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense passed through the walls, only to be fiercely startled to find that the Red-haired Demon Monkey had emerged from the bathtub, its body still covered in red fur.


    But now the Red-haired fur was like burning mes flickering incessantly, radiating a terrifying high temperature.


    However, what surprised him was that the Red-haired Demon Monkey had shrunk slightly, from previously over three meters tall to around two meters, but its muscles seemed even more robust than before, like rolling, explosive cords.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey was seen striking the stone walls ferociously, making the entire cave mansion shudder as if it were about to copse.


    Its strength was obviously numerous times greater than before!


    To think that the Red-haired Demon Monkey was already immensely strong before, and now its strength had increased manifoldbined with fire control, Lin Shiming didn''t even know into what kind of monkey the Red-haired Demon Monkey had transformed.


    But one thing was clear: for the Red-haired Demon Monkey, breaking through to the Third Rank Demonic Beast would no longer be a significant problem.


    In the midst of his thoughts, Lin Shiming also opened the stone chamber''s Formation; thetter was still howling fiercely, pummeling the walls that were reinforced with a Third-Rank Solid Spirit Formation, venting its savage emotions.


    But the next moment, the wall, fortified with a Formation, turned visibly into spiderwebs!


    This demonstrated the immense strength of the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Besides this, Lin Shiming also noticed that the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s tail had once again changed, growing from a little over one meter to about three meters long.

 Chapter 129 The Whereabouts of the Seductive Demon Grass

    The Red-haired Demon Monkey, upon seeing Lin Shiming approaching, sprinted over in an instant. When it reached Lin Shiming, it began beating its chest with both hands like a long-armed ape, howling incessantly.


    It was extremely excited but at the same time, itsrge eyes were eagerly fixed on Lin Shiming''s Storage Bag.


    The meaning behind its gaze was self-exnatory.


    Lin Shiming let out a light chuckle, took out the Storage Bag, and released arge amount of Spirit Food, Spirit Water, and Beast Nurturing Pills.


    Thetter gorged on the food voraciously, consuming three to four times more than before.


    Fortunately, at this moment, he had seven or eight Storage Bags, thergest of which was the size of a grand hall and stored a vast amount of Demonic Beast materials. Being the Lin Family Head also helped, otherwise, providing for these two creatures would have indeed been somewhat challenging.


    Lin Shiming was still observing the Red-haired Demon Monkey, but for the time being, couldn''t figure out why its tail had be so long and why there was so much more fur.


    After observing for a while with no conclusions, he left the cave and headed toward the Alchemy Pavilion.


    At the moment, he still had many tasks to attend to. The most important was to inquire whether his uncle Lin Houxuan, Fifteenth Uncle, had mastered the Formation Artifact Manual, capable of crafting Third Rank elixirs like the Breakthrough Demon Pill and the Seduction Demon Pill.


    Upon arriving at the Alchemy Pavilion, he found the family had taken on several apprentices due to their heavy focus on alchemy and artifact crafting.


    To his mixed amusement and dismay, there was someone instructing on alchemy at the moment, exhibiting a level of rigor that even surpassed that of the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, from before.


    It was Lin Shitao.


    Lin Shitao was also dressed in a green Taoist robe, looking quite dashing. Several apprentices had struggled with controlling the furnace, prompting her to step forward to lecture them before personally offering instruction.


    "Shitao, where''s Fifteenth Uncle?" Lin Shiming waited until Lin Shitao finished her guidance before asking from the side.


    "Big Brother Seven, what brings you here?" Lin Shitao''s face could barely conceal her joy.


    "I need Fifteenth Uncle to craft some elixirs!"


    "Oh! He''s in the room next to Grandfather''s alchemy chamber, currently crafting elixirs!"


    After waiting in the Alchemy Pavilion for half a day, Lin Houxuan finally emerged from within the alchemist''s chamber, his face beaming with joy but unable to hide the tiredness.


    "Family Head, you''ve arrived!" Lin Houxuan was amazed by the alchemy formation method associated with the Formation Artifact Manual the first time it was taught to him by the Second Elder, and thanks to it, he had managed to craft the Third Rank Return Yuan Pill, ensuring that the Lin family would once again have a Third Rank Alchemist.


    Of course, he was also aware that the Formation Artifact Manual was a contribution from the young Family Head before him.


    "Fifteenth Uncle, Shiming needs your help to craft an elixir. My Spirit Beast, the Demon Monkey, is just a step away from breaking through to the Third Rank Demonic Beast category."


    "The Breakthrough Demon Pill, right?" Lin Houxuan and Lin Shitao had both inherited Lin Yuqi''s alchemy lineage, so he was familiar with the Breakthrough Demon Pill and had already begun attempting to craft it.


    "Exactly! There''s also this one other elixir." Lin Shiming took out a Jade Slip, which contained the recipe for the Seduction Demon Pill that he had derived from the supplemental records of a book on Magical Treasures.


    "Another Third Rank elixir recipe?" Lin Houxuan''s eyes lit up, and he looked at Lin Shiming with newfound respect.


    The Seduction Demon Pill and the Breakthrough Demon Pill: the Lin Family hardly had a few Third Rank elixir forms, yet now, Lin Shiming had produced two.


    Lin Houxuan took the Jade Slip, examined it, and then spoke with a slight frown:


    "Family Head, this elixir is truly a creation of genius¡ªit''s the best elixir for nurturing Demonic Beasts. Unfortunately, our family doesn''t have any Seduction Demon Grass!"


    "This Seduction Demon Grass is actually a type of coastal Spirit Grass, which is unlikely to be found in Yunzhou or even the entire Zhao Kingdom."


    With these words, Lin Shiming also felt somewhat dispirited. He had thought it would be possible to breed the Spirit Ants and have them recognize a master, but now it seemed without the Seduction Demon Grass, he couldn''t concoct the Seduction Demon Pill.


    Otherwise, possessing the Spirit Devouring Ants would be a tremendous advantage when exploring ancient cultivators'' caves or ruins.


    "Shiming, you can try your luck in Qingxuan City. This grand assembly is jointly held by the Three Sects, and there will also be a trade conference for Foundation Establishment cultivators. Perhaps a fellow daoist from the Spirit Beast Sect will have them!"


    "Alright, thank you, Uncle Fifteen. I''ll leave the matter of the Seduction Demon Pill to you as well!" Lin Shiming nodded his head and knew in his heart that he must make a trip to Qingxuan City, and it would be a good opportunity to purchase a couple of Foundation Establishment Pills for the n.


    "It''s nothing, Family Head!"


    After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Lin Shiming returned to Qinglian Pool, used a Sound Transmission Talisman to inform Lin Xianzhi, and shared his ns to lead a team to Qingxuan City.


    Uncle Seven Ancestor Lin Xianzhi agreeably consented.


    He had witnessed Lin Shiming''s strength early on; even ordinary cultivators at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage might not be able to deal with him.


    Hence, he also gave Lin Shiming a Third Rank Spirit Boat.


    Speaking of which, Lin Shiming was familiar with this particr Spirit Boat¡ªit was the same one belonging to Huangyun Qi of the Huang Family,parable to the full-speed flight of a Third Rank middle stage flying demonic beast.


    Now that it had fallen into his own hands, it indeed made him feel quite emotional for a while.


    One monthter, as scheduled, Lin Houxuan sessfully refined the Seduction Demon Pills. After Lin Shiming retrieved the elixirs, he immediately fed them to the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    After it swallowed another Third Rank Demonic Beast Inner Core, the Red-haired Demon Monkey finally began its breakthrough, curling up into a ball inside the stone chamber like a massive fireball.


    Lin Shiming repeatedly checked the state of the Red-haired Demon Monkey before finally stepping out of the stone chamber tomence his cultivation practice.


    Although he had reached the Foundation Establishment Stage, the practice of cultivation still required persistence, umting little gains for a greater oue.


    Half a year passed without the Red-haired Demon Monkey emerging from seclusion, but by now, the Golden Winged Mantis had fully recovered. In the meantime, Lin Shiming had once again applied the Bloodline Reversion Secret Method on the Golden Winged Mantis.


    He purified the bloodline of the Golden Winged Mantis using the sole bloodline sample from a six-winged demonic mantis.


    Since it was the only one, the effect was not significant, but it was visibly apparent that the third pair of wings on the Golden Winged Mantis had be more elongated.


    At full speed, Lin Shiming felt a blur before his eyes.


    A Spirit Talisman flew into the cave dwelling, and Lin Shiming put away the talisman¡ªit was a notice that the Qingxuan grand assembly was about to begin.


    Lin Shiming arrived at the Council Hall where an Elder from the Treasure Pavilion handed him a Storage Bag.


    Inside were neatly piled two hundred thousand Spirit Stones, with the hope that Lin Shiming would be able to purchase two Foundation Establishment Pills.


    With the future dangers growing everrger and the Three Sects joining forces for the Qingxuan grand assembly, the Lin Family naturally hoped to obtain more Foundation Establishment Pills. Only by having a sufficient number of Foundation Establishment cultivators could the Lin Family continue to prosper in times of crisis.


    Apanying him on this trip were the Fifth Elder, Lin Yuzheng, along with the newly promoted Elder, Lin Houwei, and Lin Houxuan.


    The breakthroughs of Lin Houwei and Lin Houxuan were pleasant surprises for the Lin Family. If previously the Lin Family had no Foundation Establishment prospects, now Lin Houwei and Lin Houxuan had immediately be the n''s Foundation Establishment seeds. Especially for Lin Houxuan, being an alchemist, his breakthrough would have extraordinary significance for the Lin Family.


    After delegating most of the n''s matters, Lin Shiming also boarded the Spirit Boat, preparing to set off for Qingxuan City.


    Just as he was about to leave, Lin Shiyi suddenly appeared. Lin Shiyi had not been seen for a long time since they had jointly obtained the Body Tempering Spirit Flower.


    At this point, Lin Shiyi had progressed to the eighthyer of Qi Cultivation at just over thirty years old. This level of cultivation was enough to show Lin Shiyi''s dedication.


    "Family Head, I''ve hit a bottleneck; can I go with you to Qingyun City?" Lin Shiyi was as straightforward as ever.

 Chapter 130: Chapter 130 The Path of Spiritual Cuisine

    Qingyun City, a Spirit Boat slowly descended.


    It was Lin Shiming and hispanionsing from afar. After stowing away the Spirit Boat, they walked towards the city gate.


    The city gate was busier than ever, especially with the cultivators setting up their stalls on the ground, which were particrly numerous. It is known that more than ten years ago, Lin Shiming had also visited Qingyun City for the Qingyun Grand Meeting. This time, the event was far more grand and livelier than thest.


    And among the cultivators who came, there were quite a few from other states, as evidenced by the significant number carrying Storage Bracelets, indicating that many from the Spirit Beast Sect''s territory were also present.


    The previous Qingyun Grand Meeting was hosted by just one sect, whereas this time, it was organized by three sects together.


    Just the reputation of the Spirit Beast Sect and the Spirit Talisman Sect alone was enough to excite every cultivator from the four states under Qingxuan Sect''s jurisdiction.


    Lin Shiyi''s expression at that moment was a testament to this excitement. It was his first time attending the Qingxuan Grand Meeting in Qingxuan City, unlike Lin Yuzheng, who was seasoned and well-traveled, his gaze was eager to enter the makeshift market for treasure hunting.


    He hoped that he, too, could secure a Third Rank Demonic Beastrva just like Lin Shiming once did.


    "Second brother, all these stalls outside, they''re set up by cultivators who are reluctant to enter the city!" said Lin Shiming with a somewhat amused and helpless expression. Lin Shiyi then gave a simple smile, scratched the back of his head, and said nothing, but his gaze became noticeably more focused.


    As usual, the group entered the city gate, yet as soon as they did, they felt an immense authority emanating from the gate itself.


    Immediately, their hearts trembled. Lin Shiming looked up in surprise but found that the three characters "Qingyun City" were extraordinary.


    At one nce, his eyes stung in pain, as a fierce Sword Qi descended from the nine heavens.


    He quickly looked away and warned the others:


    "Don''t look at the Qingyun City signboard!"


    However, his warning was clearly toote as everyone was already sweating profusely, as if they had gone through a major battle. The wariness in their eyes lingered.


    "This must be to deter petty thieves!" Lin Shiming thought, aware that the three characters were newly painted. He couldn''t help but think of the Li Family.


    Clearly, the Qingxuan Sect was dissatisfied with certain families and was warning everyone.


    The group didn''t look at the signboard again and queued up to enter, paying ten Spirit Stones per person, a total of fifty Spirit Stones.


    "Let''s go to Laiyue Tower!" Lin Shiming spoke up.


    That ce was most familiar to him, and the idea for the Spiritual Meals had originated there during hisst visit.


    Laiyue Tower was still extravagantly decorated, with a constant stream of cultivatorsing and going.


    Laiyue Tower had three floors, both the number of people and the cultivation levels of the cultivators attracted the attention of everyone. This was especially true for Lin Houwei, Lin Shiyi, and Lin Houxuan.


    They had thought the Lin Family''s restaurant in Xing County was already luxurious and that the number of cultivator patrons was something to be proud of, but upon seeing Laiyue Tower, they understood that the Lin Family still had a long way to go.


    "Senior, do you have a reservation?" the apprentice of Qi Cultivation addressed them with his head bowed as usual.


    "No, we need a private room on the second floor, and five additional rooms!"


    "Alright, senior, this way please!"


    Lin Shiming, familiar with the ce, led the group to the second floor and chose a private room. They ordered a meal of Spiritual Meals, and sure enough, as expected, Laiyue Tower now had Spirit Fish cuisine.


    To his surprise, the Red Spirit Fish meal was the lowest grade at Laiyue Tower; the highest-grade Spirit Fish meal had already reached Third Rank Inferior Grade Spirit Fish Meal.


    "Uncle Five, how has our Lin Family Restaurant in Xing County been doing recently?" Lin Shiming asked while eating, turning to Lin Yuzheng beside him.


    Unlike Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei, he was now the Family Head of the Lin Family, and naturally, he had much more to consider.


    Lin Yuzheng understood Lin Shiming''s question and responded with a slight smile:


    "Family Head, currently the main sales of Lin Family Restaurant are Green Spiritual Wine and Monkey Wine. As for the Spiritual Meals, we serve Spirit Fish cuisine and ordinary Spirit Meat meals,ting between 200 to 300 Spirit Stones monthly!"


    "Uncle Five, I have a suggestion regarding Spiritual Meals. Our Lin Family can no longer be limited to just Spirit Fish and Spirit Meat meals; we must develop new Spiritual Meals. In terms of meat quality, Spirit Snake, Spirit Shrimp, and Spirit Turtle Meals all need to be researched! As long as they are aquatic Spirit Beasts with no strong aggressiveness, we can farm them.


    Qinglian Lake is currently notcking in Spiritual Energy."


    Lin Shiming spoke with conviction, knowing that the family still had the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein to reveal within the Spirit Seeking Compass, meaning the Lin Family could robustly develop the Spiritual Meals industry.


    "In addition, our family''s Lin Family Restaurant will also need to provide rooms with Formations in the future for Cultivators to rest and adjust."


    "Very well, Family Head!" Lin Yuzheng was a business genius, grasping the point immediately. The reason he hadn''t thought of this earlier was because he was previously focused on managing trading caravans and paying more attention to the Family Head''s Alchemy and Artifact Refining.


    But in this instant, seeing the poprity of Laiyue Tower, he immediately recognized the great profit potential of this venture and also saw an opportunity to arrange some practical Formation work for the newly established Formation Hall of the family.


    One should know that the auction hosted by the Lin Family, with its policy of reducing Spirit Stone fees, had also be quite famous among the Loose Cultivators in Yunzhou.


    "Furthermore, the restaurant should implement a patron policy. As long as a Cultivator stays for three consecutive days, they will be given a patron card that gives a two-tier discount on all Spiritual Meals at the restaurant," Lin Shiming spoke again.


    This was also a crucial point for him, which he had previously implemented at auctions, but he was worried that Lin Yuzheng might not understand it. Therefore, he only brought up this idea after being stimted by Laiyue Tower''s revenue.


    As expected, Lin Yuzheng was stunned at this suggestion, knowing that the profit of the Lin Family Restaurant wasn''t excessive. Farming, capturing, and preparing Spirit Fish all required the time of family Cultivators, and the profit was only about thirty to forty percent. Giving away twenty percent would almost cut the profit in half.


    However, he then thought of the auction house. Initially, it was also Lin Shiming who hade up with the idea of repeat consumption. Upon reflecting on the poprity of Laiyue Tower, he suddenly saw the light.


    "This is a good idea!"


    Cultivators who stay longer in the square market spend more, and most importantly, a bustling market attracts people!


    A bustling market will surely draw in new Loose Cultivators, and now the Lin Family already has five Foundation Establishment Cultivators. Currently, Lin Shijie and Lin Houyuan take turns overseeing Xing County, so there''s no need to worry about any trouble arising.


    Moreover, the Lin Family''s patron policy has already gained a small reputation in Yunzhou through the auction house.


    In particr, after Qingyun City suffered a Spirit Beast tide, many Cultivators still feel apprehensive and dare not venture deep into Qingyun Mountain ranges. Byparison, the surroundings, like Xing County Square Market, are thriving under the leadership of the Lin Family.


    "Family Head, once we return, we''ll implement this right away!" Lin Yuzheng nodded, his eyes showing how feasible this n was, distracted from his meal by the exciting potential.


    Having only had a sip of wine, he continued to work on the strategy.


    Lin Shiming provided the ideas and direction. As for the specific discount rates and benefits, that was naturally for Lin Yuzheng and others to decide.


    After finishing the Spiritual Meal, everyone returned to their rooms, and Lin Shiming also announced that everyone could have seven days of free time and after seven days, they would all attend the Qingxuan auction together.

 Chapter 131: Chapter 131 The Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root

    As soon as they entered the room, they each set up their own formations using array tes and nearly at the same time, appeared at the doorway.


    Lin Houxuan and Lin Houwei were close in age and were nearly in a friendlypetition within the "Hou" generation, with both of them now almost qualified as Foundation Establishment seeds for the Lin Family.


    Naturally, both were eager to visit the marketce in Qingxuan City; having seen the street stalls outside the city, they were even more interested in the stalls and shops inside.


    The shops here were much better than those in Qingyun City; Third Rank magical treasures, which were rarely seen on a regr basis, seemed to be rathermon here.


    Lin Shiyi came to Qingxuan City specifically to buy elixirs for Body Refinement, so he left his formation and came out in a hurry.


    As for the Fifth Elder, Lin Yuzheng, he was still deep in thought inside his room.


    "Let''s go together, I''ve been here before!" Lin Shiming took the initiative and spoke.


    After speaking, he led the group to the stall area first. The stall area in Qingyun City was a huge square.


    The square was densely packed with stalls, butpared to thest time, besides the basic condition that all the stall owners were Qi Cultivators in thetter stages, there were also many Foundation Establishment Cultivators setting up stalls.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also became quite interested, and after discussing with the other three, they decided to split up and look around. Lin Shiming, being a Foundation Establishment Cultivator, was naturally looking for Third Rank treasures, while the other three were only in need of Second Rank treasures.


    After determining the final meeting point, the four split up to act separately.


    Lin Shiming went straight towards the stalls of the Foundation Establishment Cultivators, as the quality of goods at Cultivators'' stalls¡ªunless they were items with growth potential or sealed¡ªcould generally be ascertained with a simple use of Divine Sense, so if he wanted to acquire anything valuable, it had to be from the stalls of Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    However, to his slight disappointment, the majority of items sold by these Foundation Establishment Cultivators were still Second Rank Supreme Grade magic artifacts and Second Rank Superior Grade spiritual objects, with only the asional Third Rank treasure.


    Not to mention the enticing herbs, even ordinary Third Rank Spirit Grasses and Spiritual Medicines were few and far between. In contrast, Third Rank Demonic Beast materials seemed much more abundant.


    But the Third Rank Demonic Beast materials in his Storage Bag were already sufficient for him to be a Third Rank Artifact Refiner, so he had no need for more Demonic Beast materials.


    Just as he was about to leave, he suddenly received a system prompt:


    "Please search the stalls carefully; you will find the root of a strand of Golden Thunder Bamboo!"


    Lin Shiming, who initially felt disappointed, suddenly became excited once again. Golden Thunder Bamboo was one of the top ten spiritual bamboos in the realm of Cultivation. Spirits forged from Golden Thunder Bamboo were the bane of Demon Cultivators and Ghost Cultivators.


    Moreover, as a cultivator with Wood Attribute, he could also perfectly harness the power of the thunder within the bamboo.


    Of course, Golden Thunder Bamboos were only famous if they were over five hundred years old.


    There were no specific grades for Golden Thunder Bamboo, everything depended on its age. Below a hundred years, the bamboo was still considered a Second Rank material. Only Golden Thunder Bamboo older than a hundred years was ssified as Third Rank material, suitable for refining Third Rank magical artifacts.


    And those that were over five hundred years were Fourth Rank materials, capable of being used to create Fourth Rank magical treasures and feared by all Ghost and Demon Cultivators.


    Not only was the bamboo''s power formidable, but it could also unleash the evil-warding Golden Thunder!


    Golden Thunder Bamboo over a thousand years old was even Fifth Rank material and, ording to legends, Golden Thunder Bamboo that reached ten thousand years old was considered Sixth Rank material able to be transformed into Sixth Rank magical treasures.


    Although he was currently only looking at the spiritual root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, to Lin Shiming, it was valuable precisely because it was the root of the bamboo, providing him an opportunity.


    Otherwise, if the bamboo was already processed into a magical artifact¡ªsince even Second Rank magical artifacts were useful for Cultivators as a means to deal with evil cultivation or Ghost Cultivators¡ªhe would have no chance of getting it.


    Especially those cultivators who enjoyed exploring the caves of ancient cultivators.


    They often encountered various corpse refining techniques, and Magic Artifacts refined from Golden Thunder Bamboo, which could provide them with some assistance.


    Of course, on the other hand, transnting the Spirit Root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo was quite difficult.


    However, for him, he had the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    At the same time, at this moment, he also started to believe the words of his seventh great-uncle, that he must possess some kind of Spiritual Body, otherwise his enhancement of Spirit nts could not have been so substantial, not to mention reviving the Awakening Spirit Flower seedst time.


    He had also consulted his seventh great-uncle multiple times, even among those at the Qingxuan Sect who cultivated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra with a Wood Attribute Dual Spirit Root, none had shown effects as good as his. That was why, when Zi Xuan Hermit asked about the speed, he reduced his own catalyzation speed by more than tenfold.


    For him, nurturing a Divine Fruit Tree or nurturing Golden Thunder Bamboo was all the same¡ªthe Spirit Root of Golden Thunder Bamboo wouldn''t only grow one stalk of bamboo. If there were prospects in Immortal Cultivation, it would be possible to cultivate even Fifth Rank materials, perhaps even Sixth Rank!


    Lin Shiming recalled this in his mind and searched even more carefully for Foundation Establishment cultivators'' booths.


    During this time, he also discovered some treasures, but none were the Seductive Beast Grass or Golden Thunder Bamboo roots that he was looking for, so they weren''t of much significance to him.


    However, just like the previous time with the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe, the cultivators running the booths didn''t put the Golden Thunder Bamboo roots on disy.


    This made him somewhat irritable¡ªthest time with the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe, there had been some trace to follow. This time, while every cultivator he saw seemed like they could have Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Roots, regrettably, he had no way of persuading the owners to part with their bamboo.


    "That''s not right!" If I can''t get it, I can set up a booth to attract the owners of Golden Thunder Bamboo to voluntarily exchange with me.


    During this time, Lin Shiming saw quite a few booth owners fail to sell their treasures, or else see someone else''s treasures, pack up their booths, and switch from seller to buyer.


    All cultivators had Storage Bags, so changing a booth location was incredibly easy.


    Lin Shiming decided to act and paid a hundred Spirit Stones at the booth setup point, securing a Foundation Establishment zone booth location.


    This made Lin Shiming realize just how profitable this rent collection was¡ªa single day''s rent could fetch a hundred Spirit Stones, and subleasing wasn''t even allowed.


    That said, Qi Cultivators'' booth locations must cost thirty to forty Spirit Stones, which is likely why there were so many outside the city gates, while most booth owners here were at thete stage of Qi Cultivation.


    Once he obtained the voucher, Lin Shiming found a spot where the crowd was quite dense.


    He immediately took out a booth, disyed a third-rank intermediate-grade Flying Sword, and two third-rank inferior-grade Flying Swords.


    These few swords were obtained when he had in Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Li Family. However,pared to the Child-Mother Sword and the Tiangang Sword Formation, these three swords were not outstanding, making it a suitable time to put them up for sale.


    Of course, there were also third-rank Spirit Armors and even more extraordinary third-rank intermediate-grade Flying Swords in his Storage Bag, but these were from disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect and could not be openly sold¡ªthey had to be sold on the ck market.


    The moment Lin Shiming disyed the Flying Swords, he instantly attracted everyone''s attention; just considering the third-rank intermediate-grade Flying Sword, even though it had no special abilities, it was still an intermediate-grade item. If exchanged for inferior-grade Spirit Stones, it could fetch tens of thousands of stones.


    In a booth area where mostly third-rank early-stage treasures were sold, this was undoubtedly a treasure that could anchor a booth.


    Many wandering Foundation Establishment Cultivators gathered around, their eyes burning with desire, and some even harbored ill intentions as they continuously sized Lin Shiming up.


    Most cultivators in the booth area were at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, but Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense was almost the highest. Instantly, he discerned those with bad intentions.

 Chapter 132: Chapter 132 A Stroke of Serendipity

    ```


    Perhaps an Inferior Grade Third Rank magic sword was not Lin Shiming''s best offering, but an Intermediate Grade Third Rank magic sword undoubtedly stood out among the Foundation Establishment stalls.


    With more cultivators flocking there, even more cultivators came by, although not as closely packed as mortals might be; still, they were not far apart. Such proximity was quite rare in the stall area, not to mention in the Foundation Establishment section.


    In an instant, three or four people sent Lin Shiming voice offers, this tacit agreement of silent bidding was clearly a way to prevent Lin Shiming from taking higher offers.


    However, what they didn''t know was that Lin Shiming was not in it for the Spirit Stones.


    In his Storage Bag, Lin Shiming had four hundred thousand Spirit Stones of his own, and his family had given him another two hundre thousand.


    For a cultivator at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, that was enough even to attend the grand Qingxuan gathering.


    "The Intermediate Grade Third Rank magic sword will only be traded for Golden Thunder bamboos of equivalent value or Third Rank inducement grass! The same goes for the Inferior Grade Third Rank magic sword!" Lin Shiming spoke up directly, not giving the others a chance to continue making silent offers.


    Hearing this, most of the cultivators without treasures continued to browse other stalls, while a few stayed behind, trying to discuss the price, but Lin Shiming shook his head at all of them.


    At this, except for a few cultivators who clearly had no good intentions, everyone else turned and left.


    They were unlikely to offer a high price, after all, browsing stalls was primarily for the sake of finding bargains; any deviation from this purpose would make it better to visitrge shops instead.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t annoyed but closed his eyes to rest. He had seen the buyers; he was waiting for sellers now.


    This news spread quickly.


    Time flew fast, and in the blink of an eye, half an hour had passed when suddenly a cultivator with a grey robe and a small beard approached Lin Shiming.


    "This sword, will you sell it for one hundred ten thousand Spirit Stones!"


    "Daoist friend, please go back. I''m only trading for Golden Thunder bamboos or inducement grass!" Lin Shiming shook his head, a look of disappointment on his face. However, just then, the small bearded cultivator sent him another message:


    "I do have a Golden Thunder Bamboo actually, but I''m afraid your sword might just fall short!"


    After saying that, the small-bearded cultivator''s face showed a pained expression, as if making a difficult decision.


    "Oh? Might I have the privilege to see this Golden Thunder Bamboo then?" Lin Shiming asked with a hint of interest.


    A sly smile shed across the other party''s lips.


    "Naturally, but with so many prying eyes here, why not go to the trading house?" suggested the small-bearded cultivator.


    Lin Shiming hesitated for a moment before replying:


    "That''s possible, but the cost of the trading house will be on you!"


    Of course, his hesitation was not due to this, but because he had realized the small-bearded man was trying to swindle him.


    "This..." the small-bearded cultivator seemed embarrassed.


    "Daoist friend, my treasures areid out here for exchange only for ones of equal value. If your items far surpass mine, I certainly won''t overstep my reach to covet your treasures. I do know my own limitations!"


    "Alright then, Hu needs a handy spiritual weapon indeed, so let''s go to the trading house together!" Seeing that he couldn''t fool Lin Shiming, the small-bearded cultivator gave up on the idea of tricking him out of a fortune.


    Lin Shiming packed up his stall and followed the small-bearded cultivator to the trading house, where they opened a session with a Spirit Istion Formation of the First and Third Rank.


    "I have a segment of Golden Thunder Bamboo. You must have heard of the top ten Spirit Bamboos!" The small-bearded cultivator said carefully, as if he was still worried about being overheard, about someone finding out he had Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    After finishing his words, surely he took out a golden segment of bamboo, from which golden electric arcs shed continuously.


    After a nce, the small-bearded cultivator quickly put the Golden Thunder Bamboo away again.


    ```


    "How about that, trading your three swords should be more than enough!"


    "Daoist Hu, you are surely jesting at Lin''s expense. This Golden Thunder Bamboo clearly has the spirit root of Jin Lei Bamboo, but without the toughness of regr bamboo, it''s nearly impossible to use for equipment forging. Its true function is to cultivate Golden Thunder Bamboo," Lin Shiming snorted coldly, his face a mix of anger and annoyance.


    "Moreover, the spirit root of this Golden Thunder Bamboocks even a hint of green, indicating insufficient vitality. It even retains the information of the Spirit Soil. Daoist Hu, you must have tried nting it, but failed to make it grow, didn''t you?"


    Lin Shiming exposed the truth, which left him somewhat speechless.


    This Daoist Hu showed no trace of embarrassment after being confronted, responding with just a nonchnt remark.


    "Ah, then I was also deceived. I bought this from someone else for thirty thousand Spirit Stones!"


    Lin Shiming was naturally skeptical of Little Hu''s performance. He suspected that Little Hu might have inquired with various stores, which offered high prices, but eventually realized that the stores also had no ns to restore its vitality.


    Otherwise, selling the spirit root of this Golden Thunder Bamboo to the Qingxuan Sect would have been a huge profit.


    After all, other sects and families might notst long enough, but a sect like the Qingxuan Sect, with Golden Core Cultivators, would find it easy to cultivate it into a Magical Treasure in a thousand years.


    Lin Shiming had to admire Little Hu''s persistence in fabricating lies even at this point.


    "Since Daoist friend has been deceived as well, I do sympathize. How about this, Lin here will trade an Inferior Grade Third Rank sword for it," Lin Shiming said without calling out the deception, choosing to continue the trade. After all, he also worried that Daoist Little Hu would eventually sell it to the sect.


    Given his nature, he was definitely one to shop around.


    After speaking, Lin Shiming watched him with a half-smiling gaze that made Daoist Little Hu feel a bit uneasy.


    "Then my thanks to Brother Lin!" Daoist Little Hu still made the trade, his mind now filled with joy. After all, even the big shops only offered up to three thousand Spirit Stones at most.


    Even Duobao Pavilion, directly affiliated with Qingxuan Sect, was the same!


    It was, after all, just half-dead bamboo roots.


    Lin Shiming did speak the truth about the nting, but it wasn''t just him; many Third Rank Spirit nt Masters had tried and all had failed to provoke a reaction.


    Being able to sell it now was indeed a cause for happiness for him.


    "Daoist Lin must be a cultivator with Wood Attribute, right?" Little Hu inquired tentatively afterpleting the transaction.


    "Yes, what do you advise Daoist Hu?" Lin Shiming watched Daoist Little Hu with a hint of speechlessness, noting the somewhat pitying look in Little Hu''s eyes.


    At this moment, Little Hu still seemed to regard him as an easy mark.


    "If Daoist Lin is a cultivator with the Wood Attribute, that''s perfect. You cane to me after the Qingxuan Grand Meeting ends, and at that time, Daoist Hu will present you with an opportunity!" Daoist Little Hu whispered this beside Lin Shiming.


    After saying this, he handed over a Jade Slip with the signal for a Sound Transmission Talisman to Lin Shiming.


    Obviously, he wanted Lin Shiming to contact him through the Jade Slip.


    Lin Shiming courteously uttered a ''thank you,'' and then they went their separate ways.


    Watching Little Hu''s retreating figure, his gaze slightly narrowed, observing for a good while.


    After cing the Jade Slip into a separate Storage Bag, he exited the trading house as well.


    With the spirit root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo in hand, Lin Shiming was now eager to return and examine the vitality of the Golden Thunder Bamboo spirit root, lest he also fail to cultivate it and end up facing a huge blunder.


    An unbreedable Golden Thunder Bamboo spirit root would at most be worth a thousand Spirit Stones.


    Whereas an Inferior Grade Third Rank sword could easily sell for thirty to forty thousand Spirit Stones, and if the material were of even finer quality, selling it for sixty or seventy thousand Spirit Stones wouldn''t be out of the question!

 Chapter 133: Chapter 133 Foundation Establishment Meeting

    In front of the Treasure Pavilion, Lin Shiyi, Lin Houwei, and Lin Houxuan three were growing anxious as the time had already surpassed their expectations by over an hour.


    Logically, with fewer stalls for Foundation Establishment cultivators, things should have been faster.


    Fortunately, at the next moment, Lin Shiming''s figure appeared before everyone.


    "I was dyed by some matters, I''ve kept Uncle Thirteen, Uncle Fifteen, and Second Brother waiting," Lin Shiming apologized with a fist cupped in his hand.


    "How could we think that way, Family Head!" Lin Houxuan immediately spoke up as well.


    "Let''s go, let''s have a look around the Treasure Pavilion. It is directly under the Qingxuan Sect, and among the many shops, it''s the most symbolic!" Lin Shiming began to introduce, then led everyone into the first floor of the Treasure Pavilion.


    The Treasure Pavilion still employed the model of having female cultivators behind counters, and upon entering, the faces of Lin Shiming and hispanions lit up with smiles.


    Returning to this ce, what moved Lin Shiming even more than these female cultivators was the second floor of the Treasure Pavilion.


    The second floor held Third Rank treasures, while the third floor held Fourth Rank treasures.


    It was said that the Treasure Pavilion also had a fourth floor, but whether it housed Fifth Rank treasures remained unknown.


    But for him, the second floor was a ce he had been curious about over a decade ago, yet now he could enter at will.


    Lin Houwei and the others stopped on the first floor, while Lin Shiming went up to the second floor alone.


    Upon reaching the second floor, unlike the first floor which had four counters, what came into view was arger counter.


    In front of the counter, a Foundation Establishment female cultivator was attending to several other Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t in a hurry, looking around. The second floor was clearly less spacious, and each shelf disyed various spirit weapons, but at a nce, they were all Third Rank Inferior Grade Spiritual Objects, with few Third Rank Intermediate Grade ones openly disyed.


    Once the cultivators in front had made their selection without concluding a transaction, Lin Shiming stepped forward.


    The beautiful female cultivator handed Lin Shiming a Jade Slip:


    "Fellow Daoist, have a look, this is our Treasure Pavilion''s treasure catalog!"


    Lin Shiming felt a sense of novelty, then also immersed his Divine Sense into the Jade Slip, only to see a vast listing of treasures, each item detailing its features, ws, and price.


    They were supplemented with pictures and Spirit Patterns.


    The categories ranged from Spirit Talismans, Spirit Pills, Array tes, and Spiritual Artifacts, to even Cultivation Techniques.


    No wonder the Treasure Pavilion did such booming business.


    However, after a full look around, he didn''t find any Third Rank Superior Grade Spiritual Objects.


    Seeing Lin Shiming looking over, the sweet female cultivator then smiled and said:


    "Fellow Daoist, if you wish to purchase Third Rank Superior Grade treasures, you need to verify your assets!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming nodded in acknowledgment, but he didn''t continue with the asset verification and instead continued to look through the Jade Slip.


    Within the Jade Slip, he first searched for thunder attribute Cultivation Techniques, this was for his n member Lin Shilei.


    However, just a nce and he found even Profound Rank Superior Grade thunder attribute Cultivation Techniques cost a hundred thousand Spirit Stones, much more expensive than ordinary Five Elements Attribute Cultivation Techniques, and as for Profound Rank, he didn''t even see any.


    Immediately, his enthusiasm waned, and he turned his attention to the Spiritual Objects.


    As expected, he didn''t find the tempting grass either, and although he was prepared for this, he still felt slightly disappointed.


    Atst, his interest was piqued by an item of treasure; his eyes were captivated by a set of snow-white silver needles.


    The silver needles were named Frost Bee Piercing Blood Needles!


    They were forged using the stingers of Frost Bees, a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifact, consisting of a set of seven needles and considered a secret treasure for surprise attacks.


    They were not only stealthy in an ambush, but also had the effect of sealing the throat upon drawing blood.


    However, the sight of the Spirit Stones made Lin Shiming frown deeply, thirty-two thousand Spirit Stones.


    But considering that there might be a great war in theing five years, Lin Shiming finally gritted his teeth and made the purchase.


    Next, he spent fifty thousand Spirit Stones and bought three Spirit Talismans, and then he walked down from the second floor of the Treasure Pavilion.


    "Fellow Daoist, two days before the auction, there will be a Foundation Establishment exchange meeting. If you have nothing else nned, you might want to participate. It''s all about exchanging items for items. Seeing that you''ve frowned a few times, it seems you''re in urgent need of certain spiritual objects!"


    The beautiful female cultivator took out a token and handed it to Lin Shiming; on the token, there was only a single character: treasure.


    "Very well, thank you, fairy. If Shiming is not otherwise detained, he will certainly attend!" Lin Shiming nodded and walked down the stairs without looking back.


    Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei were still looking at the treasures for Lin Houxuan, who was in the Spirit Pill section, constantly checking various Spirit Pills and verifying the gap between his own alchemy skills and those behind the scenes of the Treasure Pavilion.


    Lin Houwei had already made his purchase, and upon inquiry, it was learned that he had spent sixty thousand Spirit Stones on ten jars of Second Rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Wine!


    In the end, Lin Houxuan bought some rare alchemy materials, while Lin Shiyi bought Body Cultivation pills for Body Refinement.


    After finishing their tour, they returned to Laiyue Tower to refine their treasures.


    Lin Shiming took out the Spirit Root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo; he wanted to determine if the Spirit Root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo could be revived. Although this was prompted by the system, testing was still necessary.


    He took out the Jade Box containing the Spirit Root of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, and upon opening it, he saw countless golden electric arcs jumping inside the box.


    Thunderous phenomenons emerged intermittently, and even on the Spirit Roots, there were faint golden Thunder Patterns flickering.


    As usual, Lin Shiming took out Spirit Soil, but this was not ordinary Second Rank Spirit Soil, but Third Rank Spirit Soil for nting Minor Divine Ability trees.


    He ced the bamboo node into the Spirit Soil, then poured in Third Rank Spirit Water and Nurturing Spirit Liquid, and finally infused it with the True Yuan from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    So it went, for three consecutive days, Lin Shiming remained motionless in his cave abode, until at a certain moment, he suddenly noticed a hint of green sprouting on the nodes of the Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    At that moment, it was as if he heard the sound of spring thunder, a vibrant vitality spreading within the Spirit Soil.


    "Indeed!" Lin Shiming was overjoyed, bing more confident in thetent Spiritual Body he seemed to possess. However, to activate the Spiritual Body, he would need to wait for his breakthrough to the Purple Mansion.


    But now, he was only at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, and he had no idea when he would break through to the middle stage!


    Lin Shiming put away the Golden Thunder Bamboo and decided not to continue cultivating it. Instead, he took out the Sanguinary Bee Blood Needle and began to refine it.


    That very night, he suddenly noticed that a token started to shine with Spirit Light.


    Upon opening it, it was the token given by the female cultivator of Foundation Establishment from the Treasure Pavilion. At this moment, a line of words appeared on the token.


    Peaceful Street Number Sixteen, second floor!


    This location was found in Lin Shiming''s memory to be behind the Treasure Pavilion.


    After a brief contemtion, Lin Shiming used a Sound Transmission Talisman to inform Lin Yuzheng and Lin Houxuan, and then decided to attend once.


    Not to mention that this was his first participation in a Foundation Establishment convention, but the purpose of his visit to Qingyun City was only for Attracting Demon Grass, thereafter to cultivate Spirit-Ant-Eating Ants.


    As for mature ants, they are incredibly aggressive and beyond his control, even with a Spirit Contract in ce, these demonic ants would self-destruct.


    Lin Shiming arrived at the rear of the Treasure Pavilion following the directions, where there was a small courtyard. At the entrance of the courtyard, two Qi Cultivationte stage cultivators stood guard:


    "May I ask if the senior is here to participate in the Foundation Establishment minor meeting?" asked the two cultivators.


    "Indeed!" Lin Shiming nodded, took out his token, and handed it to them. To his surprise, he saw the two cultivators also take out a set of ck veils from their Storage Bags.


    "Senior, this is a Spirit Concealing Veil, which can block the divine sense probing of cultivators at the Perfection stage of Foundation Establishment. It can be rented for one hundred Spirit Stones!"


    Upon seeing this, Lin Shiming contemted for a moment, not about the Spirit Stones, but about this minor Foundation Establishment meeting.


    Needing to use the Spirit Concealing Veil, it seemed likely that some items being exchanged might belong to unsavory origins!

 Chapter 134 The Mountain Ape Practices Body Technique

    Lin Shiming handed over the Spirit Stones and followed the bluestone corridor to a grand hall.


    The lighting in the hall wasn''t very good, with only a few Moonlight Stones serving asmps.


    In front of the hall, there were three vertical rows of red nanmu chairs perfectly aligned.


    At this moment, many cultivators were already seated. Surprisingly, the back row was packed to the brim, a few cultivators in the front row were without a Spirit Shielding Veil, and the middle was sparsely popted.


    He found a seat towards the back of the middle row, sat down quietly, looked around the hall, and then decided against any further gawking.


    Most people were wearing Spirit Shielding Veils, so even if he looked, he couldn''t make out anything significant.


    While Lin Shiming closed his eyes to rest his spirit, more people came in, nearly all wearing Spirit Shielding Veils.


    When the hundred nanmu chairs in the hall were almost all upied, a square-faced cultivator in a blue robe appeared at the front of the hall.


    The blue-robed cultivator looked around, then cleared his throat before speaking,


    "It seems that nearly everyone has arrived. As the initiator of this Foundation Establishment Gathering, allow me to introduce myself first. I am Xiao Chen, also a Deacon of Duo Bao Tower, so fellow Daoists can trade with confidence. In this hall, I guarantee that no one will harbor ill intentions!"


    Xiao Chen spoke with utmost seriousness, and even employed a low-level spell so that even those sitting at the back felt as if Xiao Chen were speaking right beside their ears.


    "This Foundation Establishment Gathering will proceed in a barter format, and I shall begin by casting the first stone to attract jade!"


    As he said this, he took out three treasures: a pair of Purple-Gold Liuli Boots, a piece of Cold Iron Precious Jade, and a Demonic Beast egg.


    "These Purple-Gold Liuli Boots are a Supreme Grade Third Rank Magical Artifact. Wearing them, one naturally possesses a Superior Grade Light Body Technique. A mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator wearing these boots can definitely achieve a speed no slower than that of ate-stage or even an average great-perfection stage Foundation Establishment cultivator!"


    "This Cold Iron Precious Jade is a Fourth Rank Precious Material, fully suitable as the main material for a Fourth Rank Magical Artifact!"


    "As for thest item, this Demonic Beast egg is from a Purple Wind Hawk of the Fourth Rank. It is a Second Rankte-stage Demonic Beast upon hatching and has a great possibility of reaching the Fourth Rank in adulthood!"


    "I will exchange these three treasures only for items that can increase the probability of breaking through to the Purple Mansion. If someone has Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, they can take all three!"


    Xiao Chen finished speaking and began to look around.


    His disy caused an uproar among the cultivators. These were not mere stones he was throwing, but golden bricks!


    All cultivators'' eyes zed with desire, including Lin Shiming''s. The Cold Iron Precious Jade was less appealing since it was a Fourth Rank material needed only at the Purple Mansion, but both the Purple-Gold Liuli Boots and the Fourth Rank Demonic Beast egg were of interest.


    However, in the hall, despite the excited murmurs, no one came forward. Apparently, these rare medicines that could aid in the breakthrough to the Purple Mansion were not something many people would part with easily.


    Xiao Chen''s eyes showed a hint of disappointment, but he did not put away all his treasures. Instead, he set down the Purple-Gold Liuli Boots with a price of one million Spirit Stones, open to equivalent trades with an emphasis on materials that could enhance Cultivation Levels.


    This led to several cultivators stepping forward, and after inquiring about the price, a burly cultivator eventuallypleted the transaction.


    After Xiao Chen stepped down, the other cultivators took turns going up.


    The treasures they revealed were diverse, including several that Lin Shiming didn''t recognize.


    Most were special and rare materials, Spiritual Medicines. There were also primary ingredients for Foundation Establishment Pills such as Illusionary Heart Grass and Heavenly Spirit Fruits.


    During this time, Lin Shiming also tried tomunicate telepathically, but it was clear that either Lin Shiming was not interested, or the other party was uninterested in his materials.


    Finally, it was his turn. He stepped forward and took out ten pieces of Demonic Beast materials.


    The most eye-catching among them were the wings of a Six-Winged Demonic Mantis and a pair of its scythe-like legs.


    These two materials, in the hands of a decent Artifact Refiner, could potentially be refined into Superior Grade Third Rank Magical Artifacts with exceptionally strong properties!


    The Six-Winged Demonic Mantis was by no means an obscure demonic beast.


    "These materials in exchange for Attraction Grass, or information on Attraction Grass!"


    After Lin Shiming had spoken, he also began to look around, hoping someone woulde forward with Attraction Grass to trade.


    But obviously, no one had it, not even any information to offer.


    Lin Shiming sighed and gave up on further attempts to obtain Attraction Grass, instead opting to trade for spiritual objects of equivalent value.


    At this moment, suddenly many people started sending private messages to Lin Shiming, nearly all the cultivators wanted to trade for the wings and scything legs of the Six-Winged Demonic Mantis.


    Some offers included magic artifacts, Spirit Talismans, and even other demonic beast carcasses.


    However, Lin Shiming was not particrly satisfied with these, until a message piqued his interest:


    "Fellow Daoist, I have a set of Profound-Rank Inferior Grade body refining techniques to trade for all the demonic beast materials, how about it?"


    Lin Shiming had not expected someone to trade cultivation techniques, and he instantly agreed to the offer.


    It must be known that the best body refining technique avable to the Lin Family was only of the Yellow-Rank Superior Grade, barely adequate for reaching Foundation Establishment.


    Both the Great Elder Lin Yuqing and his second brother Lin Shiyi practiced that technique.


    Now having a body refining technique of the Profound Rank Inferior Grade naturally made him extremely satisfied, and now that he had reached Foundation Establishment, he already had a lifespan of two hundred fifty years.


    He had plenty of time to cultivate the body refining technique, and in the face of a potential invasion by the demonic sects, the body refining technique would yield the greatest benefits.


    Shortly, a somewhat plump cultivator approached from behind and kept his visage hidden behind a spirit veil, concealing his true face from being seen.


    Upon arriving, the cultivator gently picked up the spirit wings and scything legs of the Six-Winged Demonic Mantis, inspecting them closely. After realizing there was almost no damage, he clicked his tongue in wonder and could not contain his joy.


    The Six-Winged Demonic Mantis was notoriously difficult to deal with, and it was well-known in the ranking of demonic insects. Those who could kill it often had to utilize every means at their disposal, risking damaging the wings or the scything legs in the process.


    After inspecting the items, the plump cultivator handed Lin Shiming a Jade Slip.


    Engraved within the Jade Slip was a body refining technique named Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique.


    Lin Shiming used his Divine Sense to briefly examine it and discovered that it was indeed a body refining technique inspired by mountain apes and definitely a Profound-Rank Inferior Grade technique; thus, the deal was made.


    Both parties were extremely pleased with the transaction.


    The former party''s technique was static, and in any case, it could be duplicated, while thetter currently did notck such spirit beast materials; his treasures were already quite numerous.


    Whether it be the Heavenly Demon Bag, Fiery me g, Tiangang Sword Formation, Purple Wood Sword Formation, or the Mother-Child Sword and Kuimu Shield, he had also purchased the Cang Bee Blood-Breaking Needle previously.


    Now with the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique in hand, even if he couldn''t obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill, the trip was not in vain.


    After exchanging treasures, Lin Shiming continued to sit on the nanmu chair, quietly watching others trade their items.


    At that moment, he wished he could exchange for everything, but unfortunately, his previously considered substantial fortune of over four hundred thousand was likely to be consumed by just a few spiritual objects here.


    After the trading event, Lin Shiming felt as if his exposure had increased threefold, and he also gained an understanding of the extent of wealth among Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    It was clear that the cultivators from Qingzhou and the Qingxuan Sect were far beyond the reach of even the Qian Family or the Li Family''s cultivators.


    Once the small trading event concluded, Lin Shiming got up to leave, but what he didn''t expect was to receive a message from Xiao Chen at that moment.

 Chapter 135 Delivering a Message

    Behind the main hall of the Foundation Establishment assembly was a row of splendid lofts.


    Lin Shiming was currently pacing in one of the rooms.


    As soon as the assembly had ended, he naturally thought about leaving.


    After all, he had no treasures left to exchange; even his paired swords might only be worth a few hundred thousand Spirit Stones.


    He would not part with any of his other magic artifacts.


    To be sought out by Xiao Chen, a peak Foundation Establishment Cultivator, was even less appealing to him. The vast difference in cultivation was like negotiating with a tiger for its skin¡ªundoubtedly dangerous!


    However, thetter mentioned the Demonic Attracting Grass and, at a critical moment, even called out his name, which made him decide to stay.


    This made him realize that for future transactions, it was important to prepare a spirit-concealing veil in advance, as the veils provided by the Duobao Tower were clearly identifiable by their own kind.


    Lin Shiming waited in the room for nearly half an hour before Xiao Chen entered, immediately cupping his hands in apology:


    "I apologize for making the young friend Shiming wait for so long. Xiao hereby conveys his apology!"


    "Senior Xiao, you are too formal," Lin Shiming also cupped his hands, his tone neither warm nor cold.


    Thetter was not surprised at all and slowly exined:


    "Young friend, don''t worry. The reason I asked you to stay is that I wish to cooperate with your elder, the wielder of the Green Lotus Sword, on an opportunity which, if I am not mistaken, will definitely involve the Demonic Attracting Grass!"


    With these words from Xiao Chen, Lin Shiming finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Since they were seeking his seventh uncle, he was simply ying the role of a messenger at this moment.


    If his uncle chose to refuse, then so be it. While the Duobao Tower might have a great backing, they couldn''t force someone against their will, especially since the Lin Family was far away in Yunzhou.


    As for the Demonic Attracting Grass, he remained somewhat rational; if he could obtain it, then great, otherwise, he would have to give up on the idea of gaining the Spirit-Devouring Ants.


    "Young friend, just hand over this Jade Slip to your uncle, and he will decide what to do with it!" Xiao Chen took out a Jade Slip and handed it to Lin Shiming.


    He then retrieved a token and gave it to Lin Shiming.


    "Young friend Shiming, this is the Duobao Token of Duobao Tower. In the future, with this token, you can enjoy a ten percent discount on everything on the first and second floors of Duobao Tower!"


    "Many thanks to senior Xiao. Shiming will certainly convey your message correctly!" Lin Shiming thanked him repeatedly. After taking the token, he took his leave and left.


    Upon leaving the back of Duobao Tower, Lin Shiming also returned to Laiyue Tower and entered his room.


    He then recalled all the events of the day and made aprehensive summary at the end.


    Fortunately, Xiao Chen seemed to truly harbor no ill will, even gifting him the Duobao Token.


    Next, Lin Shiming took out the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique and began to try practicing it. An ordinary cultivator would be extremely cautious with a cultivation technique acquired from a transaction at an assembly, perhaps even letting an elder appraise it before starting cultivation.


    But for him, as long as he practiced, there would be a system prompt ¡ª even a Golden Core Cultivator wouldn''t have a prompt as urate as the system.


    The Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique, aside from its special martial skills, also came with a set of special breathing exercises and a Body Tempering Pill Recipe.


    For the pill recipe and martial skills, he could not detect anything amiss. However, with the breathing exercises, as soon as he began practicing, he heard the system''s prompt, followed by an improvement to the breathing technique.


    This made him break out in a cold sweat, speechless. Indeed, in the world of cultivation, if you think you''ve got an advantage, you need to be extremely cautious; otherwise, you might capsize in the gutter without even knowing it.


    Lin Shiming practiced for half an hour before he stopped ¡ª although Laiyue Tower was safe, at this moment, he did not dare to fully immerse himself in cultivation.


    Instead, he sat quietly and read the Lin Family''s introductory manual to artifact refining.


    After stepping into the Foundation Establishment, he had also made a firm decision to master a single Immortal Cultivation technique.


    At this moment, with an abundant supply of Demonic Beast materials and a vein of Golden Iron Stone, his first choice was to be a true Third Rank Artifact Refiner.


    Three days had passed, and Lin Shiming''s door opened as he stepped out.


    At the same time, Lin Houwei, Lin Shiyi, and others had already been waiting outside the door.


    "Fifth Grandpa, Uncle Thirteen, Uncle Fifteen, Second Brother, let''s set out!"


    The group headed towards the auction hall, only to find that almost all the Cultivators of Qingxuan City were converging on the auction assembly.


    The auction meetings held by The Great Sects were also causing a sensation among the Cultivators, afraid that they would miss out on a spot if they arrived toote.


    Along the way, Lin Shiming and the others also saw several disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect wearing Storage Bracelets and disciples of the Spirit Talisman Sect adorned in talisman robes.


    The entrance fee for the auction was the same as ten years ago, and after paying the required Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming arrived at the separate area for the Foundation Establishment families in the auction hall.


    This auction was extraordinarily popr, and when the Lin Family and others took their seats, they saw that the general seating area in front was already full, and the separate area for Foundation Establishment Cultivators was also overcrowded with people. The spot for the Huang Family had been reced by a new family.


    In the area where the Qian Family was seated, Qian Bosheng was also there. As he looked over, the other side also returned his smile.


    Even the private boxes of the Purple Mansion Family on the second floor had been filled with people.


    The atmosphere of the auction had never been so excited!


    At this moment, the auction hall was still admitting attendees.


    In the end, the Qingxuan auction assembly had to stop the Qi Cultivators from entering, or else there might not have been enough space.


    Just then, a middle-aged Cultivator walked onto the stage, followed by a few beautiful female Cultivators.


    This middle-aged Cultivator was highly familiar. He was none other than He Xuan, the auctioneer from more than a decade ago, and a Foundation Establishment Cultivator at the peak of Perfection.


    "Respected senior fellow Daoists, I am He An, the host Deacon for this auction. First, I would like to thank all the senior fellow Daoists for your gracious presence. Also, this auction is provided by the Three Sects with treasures including Foundation Establishment Pills, a total of 150¡ª90 from the Purple Mansion Family and 60 for the Qi Cultivators and Foundation Establishment auction!


    For the Foundation Establishment Pills, we also halved the starting price, so fellow Daoists can bid with ease!"


    When He Xuan announced the reduction of the starting price by half, the entire auction hall immediately erupted into continuous apuse.


    Especially since there were a whole 150 Foundation Establishment Pills up for auction, which was three times more than when Lin Shiming had attended the auction years ago.


    And it was known that just two years prior, the Qingxuan Sect had just finished hosting a grand Qingxuan assembly.


    "Alright, no more idle talk. Let''s start with the first auction item, a Third Rank Barrier-Breaking Pill! The starting price is eighty thousand Spirit Stones! Each increment must be at least five hundred!"


    As soon as the Third Rank Barrier-Breaking Pill was introduced, Lin Shiming was stunned. In the previous auction he had attended, the first item was only a Second Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifact.


    This time it was a Third Rank Inferior Grade Barrier-Breaking Pill, an Elixir that could help Cultivators ovee early-stage bottlenecks in Foundation Establishment, perfectly suitable even as a minor finale item.


    Yet now, it was the first auction item, suggesting that Second Rank treasures might be exceptionally scarce this time. Those Qi Cultivators and Loose Cultivators would probably only be able topete for Foundation Establishment Pills!


    "One hundred thousand!"


    "One hundred and ten thousand!"


    ¡­


    "Two hundred and twenty thousand!"


    In the end, the price soared to two hundred and thirty thousand, more than double the starting bid. Lin Shiming was tempted to participate, but after seeing the final price, he had no choice but to give up with a bitter smile.

 Chapter 136 Fortune Arrives

    The first auction item sold for 230,000 inferior grade Spirit Stones,pletely igniting the entire auction hall.


    Everyone was extremely excited, and even Lin Shiming felt a pang of regret that the family hadn''t brought more Spirit Stones.


    One must know that during the auction he attended more than a decade ago, the first auction item only sold for 9,000 Spirit Stones. Now, the price had increased more than twentyfold.


    Sure enough, in the next moment, He Xuan brought out a Spirit Talisman. Although it was only a second rank Supreme Grade, the reputation of the Substitution Talisman was incredibly resounding¡ªit could block a fatal attack once and transfer the user''s position over a hundred meters away!


    Though it was only a hundred meters, for second rank Qi Cultivators, it was an unspeakably precious life-saving treasure.


    Even some Foundation Establishment Cultivators started to be tempted, as the effect of transferring one''s position over a hundred meters away was something any cultivator could utilize.


    "Second Rank Substitution Talisman, starting bid is 10,000 Spirit Stones, with each increase no less than 500 Spirit Stones!" He Xuan announced the auction once more.


    "15,000!"


    "20,000!"


    "30,000!"


    For a moment, the Qi Cultivators and Foundation Establishment Cultivators in the front rows began to continually call out their bids.


    They were all so fiercelypetitive that they wished they could secure the item with the highest bid right away.


    Lin Shiming, however, did not make a move. After purchasing the Ho Blood-Breaking Needle, he had only over 100,000 Spirit Stones left. Including the Spirit Stones for the auction of the Foundation Establishment Pill from his family, it added up to just over 300,000 Spirit Stones.


    To the side, Lin Houwei, Lin Houxuan, and Lin Shiyi were also astoundingly surprised. This was their first time participating in an auction where the bidding started at over a hundred thousand for the items. To think that even the second auction item could serve as the finale of finales in Xing County.


    Of course, they suspected that the Lin Family wouldn''t part with it either, as keeping it for personal use would y a more critical role.


    Only a great talisman-cultivating sect like the Spirit Talisman Sect could easily bring out such items.


    The auction continued, and besides Spirit Talismans, arge number of Spirit Beast younglings and Demonic Beast eggs appeared for bidding, which was unheard of in previous auctions.


    The atmosphere in the entire auction hall surged wave after wave.


    In the end, even Third Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifacts and Magical Treasures made an appearance, making the whole auction extraordinarily fiery.


    And after two Third Rankte stage treasures were auctioned off, it was finally time for the Foundation Establishment Pills that the Qi Cultivators were most concerned about.


    First, the Foundation Establishment families and Qi Cultivators entered the bidding, with a total of sixty Foundation Establishment Pills. However, this time they were auctioning two pills at once, which meant that although the starting bid was halved, the actual starting bid for two pills was the same as before.


    "The Foundation Establishment Pills will start with two at a time, starting bid of 50,000, with each increment not less than 1,000 Spirit Stones¡ªstart bidding!" With the start announced by He Xuan, the entire auction hall utterly erupted.


    The starting bid was halved, and with sixty pills avable, that meant thirty opportunities.


    This was unthinkable in previous Qingxuan Conventions.


    "60,000!"


    "70,000!"


    ...


    Chapter Explore:


    "120,000!"


    This bid was put forth by Lin Shiming; for the first price, he directly added 50,000!


    This also made many of the Qi Cultivators and Foundation Establishment Cultivators turn their eyes toward Lin Shiming, with some who had been attending for over a decade also surprised by the terrifying breakthrough in Lin Shiming''s cultivation level.


    While they were astonished, the speed of the bids didn''t slow down in the slightest.


    Especially the family cultivators from Qingzhou, Xuzhou, and Jinzhou¡ªafter participating in this auction, they had to rush to the borders of the Chu and Zhao states. The more Foundation Establishment Pills they could secure now, the more hope they could leave for their families!


    "180,000 Spirit Stones!"


    With the final bid of 180,000 Spirit Stones, the auction for the first batch of Foundation Establishment Pills concluded, taken by a family from Qingzhou.


    Lin Shiming did not participate in the bidding. The prices for the first few batches and theter batches would be very high, but since there were enough Foundation Establishment Pills for this auction, he naturally wanted to bid as low as possible and still have a chance at getting moreter on.


    Finally, Lin Shiming made his move in the fifth batch and spent 150,000 Spirit Stones to procure two Foundation Establishment Pills.


    He still had over a hundred thousand Spirit Stones left, but he didn''t continue to bid.


    This time, the Seventh Great-Uncle wasn''t present, and buying any more could have led to immediate problems.


    After all, there would never be a shortage of loose cultivators who take risks, especially when the price of Foundation Establishment Pills had already surpassed that of an average third-rank inferior-grade magical treasure.


    Lin Shiming also didn''t participate in the final magical treasure auction and decided to leave early, just like his father had done before. Back then, had it not been for his father''s timely departure, the Li Family would have held him back, and without Xie An''s intervention, he might not have been able to return to Fangmu Mountain alive.


    Apanied by Lin Houwei and others, Lin Shiming left the auction house, but just then, he felt the Jade Talisman in his Storage Bag suddenly light up.


    "Fellow Daoist, the opportunity has arrived, at the west city gate!"


    This Jade Talisman was from the small-bearded cultivator who had sold the Golden Thunder Bamboo''s Spirit Root, who chose an inferior-grade magical treasure and left.


    He had even asked at the time if Lin Shiming was a wood attribute cultivator, offering to present him with an opportunity.


    Lin Shiming really hadn''t expected that the small-bearded cultivator would indeed have an opportunity for him.


    ncing at the talisman, Lin Shiming headed straight for the East City Gate.


    He had already sealed the Jade Talisman with a spell using a Jade Box.


    ...


    Meanwhile, at the West City Gate, there was a small pavilion.


    The small-bearded cultivator entered the pavilion, and in the next moment, strangely enough, three or four cultivators suddenly appeared inside.


    Two of them were Foundation Establishment cultivators, and one was a young Qi Cultivator at thete stage.


    The leader was an old man in blue robes who couldn''t help but look toward the small-bearded cultivator:


    "So, has he taken the bait?"


    "I''ve sent the message. If all goes well, he''ll be here soon!" The small-bearded cultivator confidently nodded.


    The group was instantly delighted. The individual in question was an early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator from a remote region like Yunzhou.


    More importantly, he was in possession of a third-rank intermediate-grade magical treasure as well as a third-rank inferior-grade one, which were publicly offered for trade. Who knew how many other valuable items were in his storage bag.


    Moreover, having attended the Qingxuan Auction, he might even have Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Thinking of this, the group chuckled lightly among themselves.


    They had killed many young Foundation Establishment cultivators like him, who were richer than many of the older generation cultivators, yielding great rewards every time.


    They had acquired the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root from the hands of a young early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Hurry up and kill him, we still have to wait for the Yellow Rank Secret Realm to open!" An impatient middle-aged cultivator withrge ears beside the blue-robed elder chimed in.


    However, the next moment, the small-bearded cultivator''s face suddenly changed drastically.


    "He''s gone silent!"


    "What are you good for!" The blue-robed elder was instantly furious!


    "Patriarch, please calm your anger, I still have one more method!" the small-bearded cultivator pleaded, smiling apologetically as he spoke.


    He then produced a device that resembled a spirit dish, and after a short while, the spirit dish shone brightly with Spirit Light.


    Clearly, he was sending a message.


    Soon the small-bearded cultivator also spoke with tion:


    "Patriarch, that fat sheep has gone to the East City Gate!"


    "Then what are you waiting for, pursue him!" The blue-robed elder waved his hand, and the next moment, a third-rank Spirit Boat appeared, and the four of them boarded the boat, chasing after their mark towards the East City Gate.

 Chapter 137: Chapter 137 Begging for mercy?

    At the eastern city gate, Lin Shiming steered his Spirit Boat through the skies, and since he had one of the earlier batches of Foundation Establishment Pills, no one had caught up to him yet.


    He stood at the very front of the Spirit Boat, just as his seventh great-uncle had done before.


    He let the wild wind blow, letting his long hair fly behind him!


    His Divine Sense stretched far and wide, at this moment, every rustle of grass and whisper of the wind over the vastnd was within his sights.


    But the next moment, he saw a Spirit Boat in the distance, flying towards him at an incredibly fast speed.


    Lin Shiming''s gaze immediately turned cold, and his body burst with Spirit Light.


    He also steered the Spirit Boat with all his might.


    "Elder uncle, get ready, there is danger!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Yuzheng and Lin Houwei, among others, were also taken aback and quickly took out their Magic Artifacts, standing on the deck of the Spirit Boat, ready to attack at any moment!


    "Fellow Daoist, why the rush? We have some fortune we''d like to share with you!" Seeing Lin Shiming speeding up, the bearded cultivator couldn''t help but transmit his voice to him.


    His demeanor and tone were quite amiable.


    To an outsider, it might even seem like old acquaintances meeting.


    But Lin Shiming was not some greenhorn fresh to the world.


    The Spirit Boat''s speed increased even more.


    However, what worried Lin Shiming was that his Spirit Boat was merely an Intermediate Grade Third Rank Spirit Boat, while the other''s was a Superior Grade Third Rank Spirit Boat.


    He simply couldn''t match the other''s speed.


    What was even more troubling was that with a Superior Grade Third Rank Spirit Boat, there would definitely be Middle Stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, or even Late Stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators on board.


    This was precisely what Lin Shiming was extremely concerned about; Middle Stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators he could still fend off a little bit, but Late Stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, those beings were old foxes of unknown ages.


    They had numerous tactics, strong magic power, and were also treacherous!


    Lin Shiming continuously extended his Divine Sense to probe, but the other Spirit Boats clearly had formations protecting them, and he couldn''t discern the cultivation levels of the cultivators on the other boat at all!


    "Prepare to pick a ce for the final battle!" Lin Shiming spoke and then took out a Storage Bag, throwing it to Lin Yuzheng.


    Without knowing the cultivation levels of the other party, he could only prepare for the worst.


    Escape was still impossible, he could only choose to fight on the ground, with his Purple Gold Vine and the Golden Winged Mantis he still had the power to fight.


    In the Storage Bag were Foundation Establishment Pills, and if they couldn''t win, Lin Yuzheng would have to depend on those pills and the Earth Escape Talisman to flee.


    Lin Shiming chose a small mountain and dove right into it; the man in the blue robe behind him was pleased. Though he was bound to catch up sooner orter, continuously chasing not only wasted time but also risked potentialplications.


    After Lin Shimingnded, he took out a set of Array tes, exactly the Third Rank Trinary Profound Spirit Formation.


    The Trinary Profound Spirit Formation was of Early Stage Third Rank, and Lin Yuzheng, Lin Houwei, and Lin Houxuan, with their Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, could barely use it.


    He wasn''t expecting them to control the formation and kill the enemy; as long as it could stall for a while, it might create some opportunities.


    And almost as soon as the Trinary Profound Spirit Formation was set up, the four people in blue robes had already rushed over.


    First, a massive Profound Spirit Mountain appeared in the sky, which then magnified and turned into a colossal mountain over a hundred zhang tall, bearing down ferociously.


    The weight of this Profound Spirit Mountain was incredibly terrifying, and the effect it had on formations was surprisingly special.


    As it pressed down, it was feared that the Trinary Profound Spirit Formation wouldn''t even have a chance to demonstrate its power before being crushed.


    "Dang dang dang!"


    Yet at the next moment, Lin Shiming''s nine Formation Swords suddenly flew out, forming a circr Sword Array, forcefully blocking the Profound Spirit Mountain!


    Meanwhile, the other two Foundation Establishment Cultivators, one controlling a Spirit Sword following behind, and thest one in the blue robe driving a Spirit Drum, fiercely began to strike it!


    As the drum sounded, a strange ripple spread through the air like ripples on ake surface!


    Lin Shiming only felt his head spinning fiercely!


    His spirit power was instantly shattered!


    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation dispersed, and Profound Spirit Mountain smashed down upon them. Lin Houwei and the others fared even worse; the Trinary Profound Spirit Formation was directly shattered, and all three of them spat out blood simultaneously!


    Fortunately, in the final moment, Lin Shiming came to his senses and released the Purple Gold Vine.


    He bound all four of them, including himself, and then pulled them back hundreds of meters.


    In their original spot, Profound Spirit Mountain had smashed out a pit over ten meters deep.


    And it wasn''t over; the three assants coordinated and attacked once again.


    It was only now that Lin Shiming realized the cultivation levels of the four; the man in blue robes and the middle-aged man with big ears were both at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, with the former even at the peak and not far from advancing to theter stage. Little Mustache was as he had perceived before, at the Foundation Establishment Early Stage.


    Relieved at this, he breathed a sigh of relief, for there was no one at the Foundation Establishmentter stage.


    But the situation remained grim, as the man in blue robes had a drum that targeted spiritual power directly.


    Chapter Find:


    The three obviously had a long history of coboration. The middle-aged cultivator controlled the Profound Spirit Mountain, constantly smashing it towards them. In the process, he also unleashed three Inferior Grade Third Rank Flying Swords, while the man in blue robes, aside from the Spirit Drum, had also drawn an Intermediate Grade Third Rank Flying Sword.


    Even Little Mustache had two Intermediate Grade Third Rank Flying Swords, and the three of them attacked Lin Shiming almost simultaneously.


    "Rise!" Lin Shiming released the Purple Gold Vine he had prepared earlier, and instantly, the sky was filled with purple vines.


    He closed in on the three assants with the vines.


    The three immediately retreated, controlling their Flying Swords to slice through the purple vines, causing countless vines to fall like rain.


    As soon as the vines dispersed, Profound Spirit Mountain smashed down towards Lin Shiming again, followed by the man in blue robes beating that Spirit Drum!


    "Tighten your Divine Sense, close off your hearing!" Lin Shiming quickly reminded the others.


    The other three hurriedly did so, but this also caused Lin Shiming to lose control of the vines for a moment, and they had no choice but to keep retreating.


    This yed right into the hands of the man in blue robes and his twopanions. Sooner orter, the Spirit Swords and Profound Spirit Mountain were bound to hit Lin Shiming.


    Especially the Profound Spirit Mountain¡ªif itnded, there was no chance of survival!


    However, at the next moment, a dazzling golden light surged forward, blindingly bright.


    The three assants were also stunned. They had no weapons that emitted such golden light, but in the next moment, they saw a flurry of golden light descending upon them.


    Then the middle-aged cultivator''s head soared high into the air, and Profound Spirit Mountain lost control and fell to the ground as well.


    Only then did the group see the appearance of the Golden Winged Mantis, and they were extremely horrified.


    The man in blue robes even started to plead repeatedly,


    "Fellow Daoist, there is a misunderstanding; this old man only wanted to explore the Secret Realm with you!"


    The old man repeatedly grinned and pleaded, while Little Mustache quickly grasped the situation, knowing that without Profound Spirit Mountain, they stood no chance against Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming himself was also in a daze; this was his first encounter with Foundation Establishment cultivators begging for mercy, but was begging really useful?


    But in the next moment, to his horror, he felt an array of invisible silk threads shooting towards him.


    The following instant, the Kuimu Shield directly shielded him, yet terrifyingly, it split in half, and the white strands of silk kept shooting towards his head.


    The speed was extremely fast, and the terror was overwhelming.


    At this time, the cultivator in blue robes started beating the drum once more!


    With the sound of the drum, not only was Lin Shiming greatly affected, but the Golden Winged Mantis also emitted a piercing shriek, in extreme agony!

 Chapter 138: Chapter 138 Yellow Grade Secret Realm

    At this critical juncture, with only a hair''s breadth separating life and death, it was evident that the blue-robed elder''s thread was of the same type as his magic artifact the Gold and Silver Thread!


    Yet thetter was not a mere second-rank supreme grade magic artifact, but a third-rank intermediate grade one. Its speed far surpassed the former, and its prative power was terrifying. Even the Kuimu Shield of the same grade was brutally perforated. If he hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, he would have never believed it possible before.


    Even at this moment, he did not have time to employ the Green Bee Break Blood Needle!


    The spiritual attack from the Spirit Drum prevented him from concentrating fully on activating the Spirit Sword and the Purple Gold Vine.


    At this moment, the blue-robed elder''s expression also rxed in an instant, and even the small-bearded cultivator appeared utterly confident, as if Lin Shiming was already a dead man.


    After all, the blue-robed elder was unaware of how many Foundation Establishment cultivators he had killed with those two magic artifacts.


    And in their eyes, Lin Shiming''s fate was no different.


    But in the next moment, Lin Shiming once again used a purple vine to pull himself a hundred meters back, and while midair, he threw out a bead.


    The blood-red bead immediately transformed into a red lightning bolt and violently exploded.


    A wave of terrifying Spirit Might turned into many streaks of punishing lightning, crackling and roaring as if delivering divine retribution to the ears!


    The white thread was instantly shattered, no longer posing any threat to Lin Shiming.


    "How do you have a third-rank superior grade Xue Sha Thunder!" The blue-robed elder''s face was filled with disbelief at this moment.


    The fearsome reputation of Xue Sha Thunder was well-known, and they could hardly believe that the Foundation Establishment early stage cultivator before them actually possessed a Xue Sha Thunder!


    The Xue Sha Thunder was not only powerful, equivalent to ate-stage Foundation Establishment strike, but it could also taint magic artifacts, considered abined method of the Demonic Path and those who cultivate lightning.


    But further disbelief was toote, as the injured Golden Winged Mantis became incredibly furious, hissing as its six wings unfolded.


    Golden light shed, and it felt like a golden rainbow shot towards them. The blue-robed elder had just released the Spirit Sword and picked up a mallet to start beating the mysterious Spirit Drum.


    The Spirit Sword was instantly swept aside, and the golden edge also reached him, directly beheading the blue-robed elder.


    The Spirit Drum, yet to be struck, fell to the ground, the Golden Winged Mantis even seemed to want to bite and vent its frustration on the Spirit Drum!


    But it was forcefully stopped by Lin Shiming.


    The power of this magic artifact was something he coveted, an essential tool capable of turning the tides at critical moments.


    Meanwhile, the small-bearded cultivator was stunned, his face filled with fear. With two Foundation Establishment middle stage cultivators killed, how could he, a merely ordinary Foundation Establishment early stage cultivator, possibly be Lin Shiming''s opponent?


    He retreated quickly, stepping back while speaking,


    "I''ll tell you where the Enticing Demon Grass is, I''ll tell you where the secret realm is!"


    Lin Shiming also stopped at this moment. He had heard about chances in secret realms countless times, but judging from the small-bearded man''s demeanor, there could really be a secret realm.


    "Family Head, I caught a Qi Cultivator who knows about the secret realm!" Not far away, Lin Shiyi walked over. On the Spirit Boat, he had released Lin Shiyi, and the Storage Bag with the Foundation Establishment Pill was with him. As for the actions on the Spirit Boat, they were just to confuse the blue-robed elder.


    He let Lin Shiyi go first as a precaution during the life-and-death struggle when theynded.


    But in his hands, a young man in a green robe was grabbed like a little chick.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming immediately activated the roots of the Purple Gold Vine, piercing through the body of the small-bearded cultivator in an instant.


    With this, the great battle was victorious.


    Of course, at this moment, he also regretted not having learned the Soul Searching Technique secret method that Foundation Establishment cultivators had; a Loose Cultivator like the small-bearded cultivator should have been soul-searched directly.


    At this moment, Lin Yuzheng, Lin Houwei, and others were all looking at Lin Shiming in stunned silence.


    Atst, he couldn''t help but swallow nervously.


    They had never imagined that Lin Shiming''s strength had reached such a level that even two cultivators in the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment were in by him.


    And the three of them had not been of any help whatsoever, as the Trinary Profound Spirit Formation had been continuously suppressed by that Spirit Drum.


    By the time they had set up the formation, Lin Shiming had already killed all three of them.


    And to think, just over a decade ago, Lin Shiming was just like them, a Qi Cultivator showing off his skills.


    "Pack up the things, let''s leave first," said Lin Shiming, not borating further, picking up all the spoils of war, and then piloting the Spirit Boat towards Fangmu Mountain.


    The cultivator was also directly grabbed by the throat by Lin Shiyi and thrown onto the Spirit Boat.


    The Spirit Boat sped towards Fangmu Mountain, leaving behind a trail of golden rainbows in the sky.


    ...


    Three dayster, at Fangmu Mountain, beside Qinglian Pool, a congregation of the Lin Family''s Foundation Establishment Elders waited at the pavilion.


    At this moment, the pavilion, originally meant for rest, had nearly be another council hall for the Lin Family.


    This was partly due to the Seventh Great Uncle''s fondness for being beside the Qinglian Pool, and also because most major issues were brought by Lin Shiming.


    At this moment, apart from Lin Houyong, who was stationed in Lingnan County, almost all the senior members of the Lin Family had gathered here.


    Before long, the white-haired Lin Xianzhi floated into the pavilion.


    Even though his cultivation technique had been corrected, Lin Xianzhi''s lifespan was in fact only about three or four decades!


    To avoid drawing attention, he had simply maintained his white hair.


    "Shiming, is this true?" Lin Xianzhi asked solemnly, for the news brought by Lin Shiming was truly shocking.


    It was a Yellow Grade Secret Realm.


    In the Cultivation World, there are always oveps of small spaces, and even a great power had once proposed that Huangyun Continent, including the seven or eight great cultivating countries like Zhao Kingdom and Chu Country, are all minor spaces of other Cultivation Worlds.


    Otherwise, in the entire Cultivation World of Huangyun Continent, there are plenty of Sixth Rank cultivation techniques, yet strangely, there are no existences of Sixth Rank Nascent Soul True Monarchs.


    This is rted to the Spirit Vein and also to the Spiritual Energy of heaven and earth in the Cultivation World.


    Apart from the small world spaces created by cultivators, there naturally exist small spaces without cultivators, which are also called Secret Realms by cultivators.


    Secret Realms are divided into four grades ording to the colors of heaven and earth: Heavenly, Earthly, Profound, and Yellow, corresponding to Qi Cultivators, Foundation Establishment Cultivators, Purple Mansion Cultivators, and Golden Core Cultivators.


    In these Secret Realms, the Spiritual Energy is dense, unexploited for hundreds of years, housing massive quantities of century-old Spiritual Medicine, and even millennium-old Spiritual Medicines.


    It is said that the Qingxuan Sect owns three Yellow Grade Secret Realms and one Profound Grade Secret Realm, which provide vast Spirit Medicine Resources, creating batch after batch of cultivators with profound magical power.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, it''s true. However, this Secret Realm is a small Yellow Grade one, notrge, about the size of three Fangmu Mountains. It used to be a private Secret Realm of the Lei Family from the Purple Mansion Family.


    After the fall of the Purple Mansion cultivator from the Lei Family, their decline started, and thirty years ago, thest Foundation Establishment Cultivator perished, and they couldn''t even open the Secret Realm.


    Their territory was eventually robbed, and even the sole direct descendant was captured by several Loose Cultivator bandits!" Lin Shiming exined, taking out the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root again.


    Golden Thunder Bamboo, constantly releasing lightning, caught Lin Xianzhi''s eyes, which immediately lit up with brilliance.


    Golden Thunder Bamboo isn''t something ordinary powers possess, making the possibility of this Yellow Grade Secret Realm even more likely.


    They even anticipated whether Golden Thunder Bamboo grew within the Secret Realm!

 Chapter 139: Chapter 139 Family Jade Book

    ```


    The Elders beside them were also listening with parched throats, for this was a Yellow Grade Secret Realm, and it should be known that the Qingxuan Sect had only three.


    Of course, that was the number openly acknowledged; the exact count of secret realms in the shadows was unclear.


    But this already highlighted the Lin Family''s advancement toward bing a Purple Mansion Family.


    A vein of Golden Iron Stone, the appearance of a Third Rank Artifact Refiner and Third Rank Alchemist in the Formation Artifact Manual, and now a form for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid¡ªif they could gather the spiritual medicines required for the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid and sessfully concoct it by chance, the Lin Family''s ascent to bing a Purple Mansion Family would be within reach.


    Now, with the addition of a Yellow Grade Secret Realm, even if it were opened only once every ten years, it would still provide a massive supply of spiritual medicine for the Lin Family.


    Even though it was only a Yellow Grade Secret Realm, capable of cultivating up to Second Rank and Third Rank spiritual medicines, it was entirely sufficient for the Lin Family.


    "Shiming, how secure is this information?" Lin Xianzhi asked once again.


    "Everyone privy to it is present here, along with that cultivator from the Lei Family!" Lin Shiming responded solemnly, adding,


    "Good, from today onward, this matter must not be discussed further. Wait until I have purchased the Family Jade Book from Qingxuan City to talk again!" Lin Xianzhimanded, then fixed his authoritative gaze on everyone present.


    The matter of the Yellow Grade Secret Realm was of tremendous consequence; should word leak out, even if the Qingxuan Sect did not make a statement, the various Purple Mansion cultivators from the sect woulde knocking on their door demanding answers.


    And the Family Jade Book was a Fourth Rank Magical Treasure, simr to the War Treasure Ship in that Foundation Establishment cultivators could use it. Its function was also extremely special, establishing forbidding formations in the minds of direct family members, preventing ordinary cultivators from soul-searching.


    One attempt at soul-searching would immediately trigger a self-destruct mechanism.


    The Lei Family cultivator survived an encounter with several ck Wind Fortress Foundation Establishment Loose Cultivators precisely because of the forbidden formation in his mind.


    Of course, while this Family Jade Book was precious, it was not as priceless as the War Treasure Ship. Eight or nine hundred thousand Spirit Stones would suffice to purchase it.


    "Additionally, the family will now begin its firstpetition. Those in theter and middle stages of Qi Cultivation, as well as those in the early stages, must all be the key support targets for the family!" Lin Xianzhi spoke again.


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming, as the Family Head, immediately consented.


    However, before that, Lin Shiming took out a Jade Slip from a Deacon of Duo Bao Tower and handed it to Lin Xianzhi.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, this was given to me by Xiao Chen, the Deacon of Duo Bao Tower, to pass on to you!"


    "Oh!" Lin Xianzhi''s face showed surprise upon hearing this.


    But after reading the Jade Slip, his expression turned icy in an instant.


    Clearly, the message within the Jade Slip had startled Lin Xianzhi as well.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, is it about exploring the secret realm?" Lin Shiming ventured to ask.


    Considering Xiao Chen''s urgent need for Purple Mansion spiritual medicines and his likely short lifespan, since he hadn''t traded for Purple Mansion spiritual medicines in the exchange meeting and none were avable at the auction, the only exnation left was exploring a secret realm.


    Lin Xianzhi nodded but said nothing more.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming dared not inquire further. Instead, he began to arrange the familypetition. Fortunately, although he was the Family Head, the family had seven main branches, and thepetition was entirely managed by the Law Enforcement Hall.


    With the cultivation and experience of the Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, it was entirely sufficient.


    After dealing with these matters, Lin Shiming also returned to his cave dwelling.


    Truly, their recent battle had been extremely perilous, with both Profound Spirit Mountain and that mysterious Spirit Drum causing him a great deal of trouble.


    ```


    Fortunately, in the end, the standoff was broken by the Golden Winged Mantis and the Xue Sha Thunder.


    This also served as a wake-up call for him; if individual Loose Cultivators had such tactics, dealing with experienced disciples fromrge families would likely be even more troublesome.


    While he thought this, he also took out all the loot he had gathered.


    Since all the enemies were Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and he had killed them by himself, all three Storage Bags were his to im.


    He first took out the Storage Bag of the middle-aged Cultivator and the treasures from Profound Spirit Mountain appeared before his eyes. As he picked up the Profound Spirit Mountain, he only felt a solid and unadorned cool touch. When he applied a bit of True Yuan, the weight suddenly increased, and in an instant, it felt like it had the force of thousands of jun.


    This was just from applying a bit of True Yuan. If he were to use full power, transforming it into the size of arge mountain, it would weigh at least ten thousand jun.


    If struck identally, even a third-rankte stage Cultivator would likely have no chance of survival.


    He carefully stored the Profound Spirit Mountain. He wouldn''t use the mountain himself, but it would be perfect for the Red-haired Demon Monkey after its breakthrough.


    Besides that, the middle-aged Cultivator''s Storage Bag contained few Spirit Stones, only tens of thousands. There were a few third-rank inferior grade magic swords, but to Lin Shiming, they were hardly worth a second nce. He could sell them off casually at any market or even at the Xing County Square Market.


    The rest of the bottles and jars held no substantial value.


    Not even a piece of Inner Armor was present.


    The poverty of the middle-aged Cultivator''s Storage Bag made Lin Shiming somewhat worried that the elderly blue-robed character''s and the little mustachioed Cultivator''s Storage Bags would also have little of worth.


    As expected, in the little mustachioed Cultivator''s Storage Bag, he only found over a hundred thousand Spirit Stonesplemented by amon third-rank intermediate grade magic sword, and two third-rank inferior grade Magical Treasures.


    These items, of course, didn''t catch Lin Shiming''s eye either.


    Thest Storage Bag belonged to the elderly blue-robed character, and to Lin''s surprise, upon inspection, he was taken aback.


    There were over six hundred thousand inferior grade Spirit Stones alone. In addition, there were numerous elixirs; there were ten bottles of third-rank Essence Pills used for advancing one''s cultivation level and about a dozen third-rank inferior grade Spirit Talismans.


    Last were the Magical Treasures¡ªan enigmatic third-rank superior grade Spirit Drum, plus a third-rank intermediate grade silken web Magical Treasure, and two third-rank intermediate grade magic swords, the total value easily exceeding a million Spirit Stones.


    After finishing the inspection, Lin Shiming was overjoyed; the elderly blue-robed individual turned out to be unexpectedly wealthy, probably even more so than the average descendants ofrge families.


    But thinking of the enigmatic Spirit Drum, Profound Spirit Mountain, and the silken web Magical Treasure, he suspected that even some of the more powerful peak mid-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators would fall to their hands.


    Especially people like the elderly blue-robed individual¡ªclearly they targeted only small family disciples or Loose Cultivators, and they were selective in their targets. Lin suspected that in Qingxuan City, they were not only after him!


    While Lin Shiming was delighted, he first picked up the Spirit Drum. The drum was only about the size of a basin, apanied by two drumsticks embroidered with dazzling Spirit Patterns, perfectly matching the Spirit Drum.


    When Lin tried to strike it, he suddenly discovered that the Spirit Drum consumed Divine Sense. The next moment, his face turned pale.


    He gave up on the idea of ying the drum, as it seemed that only the Divine Sense of a mid-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivator could barely control it.


    Although his Divine Sense was far superior to an average early-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivator, it had not yet reached the level of mid-stage, which aroused Lin Shiming''s curiosity.


    How was it that the elderly blue-robed individual could y the drum, control the silken web and also wield two third-rank intermediate grade magic swords?


    The strength of his Divine Sense was somewhat unexpected.


    Upon this thought, Lin Shiming started searching through the elderly blue-robed character''s Storage Bag for Jade Slips.


    Soon enough, he found a redwood bookshelf in a corner. The bookshelf was clearly ancient, and upon it, instead of books, there was a row of Jade Slips!

 Chapter 140: Chapter 140 Split Spirit Art

    Lin Shiming took out all the jade slips in one breath, only to be pleasantly surprised to find that among them were quite a few cultivation techniques and secret manuals.


    They covered all five elements attributes, with four Profound Rank Superior Grade techniques that could be cultivated to the pinnacle of Foundation Establishment.


    Besides that, there was also one Profound Rank Inferior Grade technique, the Kui Water True Sutra.


    This was something Lin Shiming hadn''t expected. The Lin Family only had one Profound Rank technique, and it was the Fire Attribute Profound Rank Inferior Grade technique practiced by Lin Shijie. This would give the family''s cultivators another option.


    The gain was no less than that of a Third Rank Superior Grade magic artifact.


    From this perspective, it''s likely that the blue-robed old cultivator had obtained the inheritance of a family.


    Otherwise, it would be impossible to have treasures like the Shocking God Drum and the Heavenly Silkworm Silk, and it''s even possible that he got Profound Spirit Mountain as well.


    The appearance of the jade slips containing five techniques filled Lin Shiming with joy, and he became even more expectant for the remaining jade slips.


    As a family branched out from a sect, although the Lin Family was once part of the Purple Mansion Family, its foundation in cultivation techniques was still no match for those thousand-year-old veteran Foundation Establishment families.


    The remaining two jade slips, one was the artifact refining insights of a Third Rank Artifact Refiner, and the other was a secret technique, the Split Spirit Art!


    The artifact refining insights were fine, as the Lin Family had some, but thetter''s Split Spirit Art was the existence that excited him the most.


    This technique was exactly what the blue-robed old cultivator practiced, which could significantly enhance Divine Sense.


    The Split Spirit Art was more useful than that Second Rank Awakening Spirit Flower.


    Once his Divine Sense became powerful, he would also be able to activate the Shocking God Drum, and together with the Golden Winged Mantis, if ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator became careless, they might be cut down by Lin Shiming.


    After taking the Split Spirit Art, he had finished inspecting all the treasures. Although this time was perilous, he also gained a lot.


    He now had body refining techniques, a secret technique for condensing Divine Sense, and even insights into artifact refining.


    Once the matter of the Yellow Grade Secret Realm was settled, he could seclude himself for cultivation to make himself even stronger.


    Lin Shiming suppressed the joy in his heart and went to the stone chamber of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, which was still in deep slumber and hadn''t evolved into a Third Rank Demonic Beast, but the increasingly powerful aura of its Spirit Might greatly reassured him.


    Given the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s Bloodline Reversion,bined with a Demon Core breakthrough pill, advancing to a Third Rank Demonic Beast should not be difficult. It''s just uncertain how much potential would be left after breaking through to a Third Rank Demonic Beast.


    Then, Lin Shiming went to the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree and catalyzed it with Wood Attribute True Essence as part of the routine.


    Now, the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree was more luxuriant than before, with every leaf shimmering with golden light.


    After half a day of nurturing, he went to the front of the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    The Minor Divine Ability Tree hadn''t changed at allpared to before; it still stood so tall, looking like a young sapling that had just sprouted not long ago.


    Lin Shiming also infused True Essence as usual, only the Minor Divine Ability Tree''s demand for True Essence was much greater. Lin Shiming spent an entire day catalyzing it.


    Only then did the Minor Divine Ability Tree reach a saturated state, and he was forced to stop and meditate for a while.


    As for the remaining Awakening Spirit Flowers, Lin Shiming didn''t nt them anymore but left them for the family''s Spiritual Medicine Garden, along with the Spirit Seeking Bees.


    All the Spirit Seeking Bee honey had been ced in the Treasure Pavilion of the family, but these honeys would be converted into contribution points.


    However, he did not care about how many contribution points he had in the Lin Family at the moment. In any case, he should be the first person after Lin Xianzhi.


    Of course, as the Family Head of the Lin Family, he also had the authority to use fifty percent of the family''s wealth.


    Half a dayter, Lin Shiming woke up from cultivation, feeling refreshed and fully restored with all the True Essence within his body.


    The benefits of practicing the Purple Wood Heart Sutra were fully evident, as he felt his True Essence was constantly regenerating, dense and prolonged.


    Lin Shiming took out the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root next, which was his greatest concern, as he possessed the Purple Wood Heart Sutra and an unknown Spiritual Body. There was even a possibility that he could cultivate the Golden Thunder Bamboo into a Millennium Thunder Bamboo.


    Lin Shiming dug up a small pot of Third Rank Spirit Soil from under the Minor Divine Ability Tree and ced it on the other side of the cave.


    First, he watered it with the Third Rank Spirit Water from the bottom of the Qinglian Pool, then took out the Nurturing Spirit Liquid specially prepared by the Lin Family.


    As this was sprinkled down, the Spirit Soil immediately teemed with endless vitality, and the Wood Attribute Spiritual Power reached its peak.


    Only then did he take out the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root and carefully buried it, before once again adding the True Essence of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    This time, the application of True Essence took even longer, not to test the vitality of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, but to let the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root sprout.


    The amount of True Essence needed was enormous.


    Three days passed, nearly depleting all the True Essence within Lin Shiming''s Heart of Heavenly Wood.


    At this point, there was still no sign of sprouting from the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root, only shes of thunder within the Spirit Soil and a richness of vitality like the aftermath of a thunderstorm.


    Lin Shiming ceased cultivating and stood up. With the True Essence of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra maximized and still unable to induce sprouting, it indicated the Golden Thunder Bamboo needed more time.


    It also implied that the potential of the Golden Thunder Bamboo was even more formidable than that of the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    With the Golden Thunder Bamboo nted, thest weight on his heart lifted. After half a day more of cultivation in the cave, Lin Shiming finally emerged from retreat.


    His seclusion hadsted seven days, coinciding with the return of his great uncle, Lin Xianzhi.


    The Family Jade Book had been purchased, and nearly all cultivators from both Nanling County and Xing County Square Market had gathered at the ancestral shrine.


    It was Lin Xianzhi, the great uncle, who led the incense offering and ancestral chant.


    This was the Lin Family''s first time possessing their Family Jade Book, which meant aside from the Forbidden God Formation, the family could now ascertain the survival of their cultivators without the need to use the family token.


    For some reason, the great uncle''s speech during this ancestral chant was longer than usual.


    It conveyed the family''s expectations and hopes for Lin Shiming.


    After everyone had paid their respects, it was finally Lin Shiming''s turn to organize the family members, bringing them forward to drip blood into the book.


    As blood entered the book, each person would offer three sticks of quality sandalwood, with the Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, standing by to introduce and chant for each family member, presenting them to the ancestors of the Lin Family.


    Lin Xianzhi was the first, followed by Lin Houyuan, then Lin Shiming, and by the time it was Lin Shijie''s turn as the fifth, tears had already stained his cheeks.


    The memorial tablet of the Second Elder, Lin Yuqi, was also there, among the newest row.


    With the book entriesplete, Lin Shiming announced the start of the Lin Familypetition.


    Thispetition not only marked a new cycle of the family''s tribute system but was also an asion to elect the three outstanding members of the Lin Family.


    Age or generation did not limit the selection of the three exceptional members ¨C anyone under fifty could be chosen, with two from theter stages of Qi Cultivation and one from the mid-stages being selected.


    Of course, the most crucial goal was to select the cultivators from the Lin Family suitable to enter the Yellow Grade Secret Realm.


    It''s known that the Yellow Grade Secret Realm prohibits entry to both Foundation Establishment cultivators and Third Rank Demonic Beasts.


    Therefore, even Lin Shiming would only be able to wait outside the Secret Realm this time.


    "The familypetition will be judged on actualbat this time," Lin Shiming began. "The triumphant three of the Lin Family will have the priority right to exchange for Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Additionally, the top five in theter stages of Qi Cultivation, the top three in the mid-stages, and the top one in the early stage will each receive five hundred contribution points from the family and a suitable Magic Artifact."


    "Moreover, I will personally provide an additional Magic Artifact," Lin Shiming added, instantly delighting everyone present. Lin Shiming''sbat prowess was among the best in the family, and the power of his Magic Artifacts was renowned far and wide.

 Chapter 141: Chapter 141 Family Competition

    The grandpetition began swiftly, taking ce in front of the Treasure Pavilion at the Martial Arts Hall.


    It was overseen by Lin Shijie as the referee, given that among the Lin Family''s three outstanding Qi Cultivators, he had reached the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, which meant that should a dispute arise, ordinary Qi Cultivators simply couldn''t save each other at critical moments.


    As for Lin Shiming, he was the Family Head.


    At this moment, Lin Shijie, having no other pressing matters, began the drawing of lots directly.


    The Lin Family had lost more than thirty cultivators due to the beast tide, and with the family reforms plus the aftermath of the beast tide, many cultivators had breakthroughs.


    Now there were five Foundation Establishment cultivators, nine at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, thirty at theter stage, sixty at the middle stage, fifty at the early stage, and twelve Innate cultivators.


    Compared to thest n assembly, even after ounting for the cultivators lost, there were twenty more at the middle stage of Qi Cultivation. The numbers at theter stage and the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation were not less than at thest n assembly, which was significant considering the manyter-stage cultivators who had fallen in the beast tide.


    This was also the fruit of the Lin Family''s implementation of the assessment system reform.


    Among the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level eligible due to the fifty-year-old age limit for the npetition were Uncle Thirteen, Lin Houwei, and fifteen-year-old Lin Houxuan. The other Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators had all exceeded the age limit.


    The most outstanding of theter-stage Qi Cultivators was Lin Shitao, who had recently broken through the eighth level of Qi Cultivation and, importantly, was only twenty-three years old. She was also a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Alchemist, and had nearly been confirmed as a Foundation Establishment seed for the Lin Family.


    Beyond Lin Shitao, the otherter-stage Qi Cultivators were significantly less notable. Among them were six of theter generation, including the chubby cultivator Lin Houyuan from Xing County who Lin Shiming had encountered before.


    Besides Lin Shitao, there were three others of the Shigeneration at theter stage, with Lin Shiyi at the eighth level of Qi Cultivation, Lin Shiyun at the seventh level, and Lin Shiqi also at the seventh level.


    All otherter-stage Qi Cultivators were over fifty years old.


    The grandpetition of the middle-stage Artifact Refiners was the most lively with sixty participants, of whom thirty were eligible for the npetition.


    Besides three cultivators of theter generation, the rest were of the Shigeneration.


    Forty early-stage Qi Cultivators participated in the npetition.


    The grandpetition proceeded smoothly, divided into three battlefields and six tforms.


    There was one tform forter-stage Qi Cultivators, two tforms for middle-stage Qi Cultivators, and three for early-stage Qi Cultivators.


    Lin Shijie, as the protector Elder, supervised theter-stage Qi Cultivators'' tform, acting as the protector who could call a halt at critical moments. The middle-stage tforms were overseen by the Law Enforcement Hall Master Lin Yuqing and the Demon Hunting Hall Master Lin Houyong as protector Elders.


    The remaining Elders were protectors for the early-stage tforms.


    Drawing lots for the matchups began immediately, with bouts on all three tforms starting almost simultaneously.


    On theter-stage tform, Lin Shiyi faced off against Lin Shiqi, a seventh-level Qi Cultivator.


    On the middle-stage tforms, Lin Shizhong at the fifth level of Qi Cultivation fought Lin Shifei at the fourth level, while Lin Shicheng battled Lin Shiyu.


    The early-stage tforms featured Lin Shiyu against Lin Shiwei, Lin Shiqing against Lin Shicai, and Lin Shiwen against Lin Shiwu.


    Lin Shiming hadn''t expected that as soon as thebat began, two of the participants would be people he was familiar with.


    Among them, Lin Shizhong was a Third Spirit Root Cultivator he had brought back from Qingtao Town. After twelve years of cultivation, he had reached the fifth level of Qi Cultivation¡ªquite standard progress. But it''s worth noting that he was also an Artifact Refiner who had broken through to be a Second Rank Intermediate Grade only half a year ago.


    While not as naturally talented in Alchemy as Lin Shitao, his achievement was still quite impressive.


    He was curious to see how far Lin Shizhong could go. After all, he had given thetter a Second Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact not long before.


    Lin Shiyi was even less worth mentioning; his second brother, a Body Refining Cultivator, who would undoubtedly have a chance at winning the top three!


    As for the early-stage Qi Cultivators, even though they also belonged to the generation of the Lin family with names starting with "Shi", the bustling and flourishing generation had now expanded to the nieth branch. This time, the ones who participated in thepetition were unfamiliar to him.


    When the duel of spells began, it immediately defied everyone''s expectations. The duels ofte-stage Qi Cultivators turned out to be much quicker than those of the mid-stage Qi Cultivators, which in turn were quicker than the duels of the Qi Cultivators.


    The first duel among thete-stage Qi Cultivators was won by Lin Shiyi, who triumphed in less than half a quarter of an hour by closing in on his opponent and securing a swift victory.


    Lin Shizhong also defeated his opponent within a quarter of an hour. As a Second Rank Artifact Refiner, he possessed so many Spiritual Artifacts that he almost entirely suppressed his opponent throughout the fight.


    It was only at the end that the early-stage Qi Cultivators determined the victor.


    The ferocious battles continued one after another, and before long, the n had identified a number of outstanding descendants.


    Lin Shitao of the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level, with her dazzling mastery of the fire control spell, defeated even the more seasoned senior generation Qi Cultivators of the same level.


    It goes without saying for Lin Houwei and Lin Houxuan; they also won against their opponents with ease.


    The dueling tforms forte-stage and Ninth Level Qi Cultivators were the quickest to determine the winners; Lin Houwei, Lin Houxuan, Lin Shitao, Lin Shiyi, Lin Shiyun, and Lin Houyuan.


    Shiming was very familiar with five of them. Lin Houwei and Lin Houxuan, his uncles numbered thirteen and fifteen, were both Ninth Level Qi Cultivators. He needn''t mention how well-acquainted he was with Lin Shiyi and Lin Shitao.


    As for Lin Houyuan, he too was well-known to Shiming, being the manager of the Lin Family''s Xing County auction - the one who usually appeared fattish with an amiable look despite his beefy face.


    But when it was time to act, he was exceptionally decisive and effective, defeating his opponent within just a few moves.


    And then there was Lin Shiyun, the one who was a pleasant surprise.


    Among the "Shi"-generation of the Lin Family, Lin Shiyun was ranked ninth, just half a year younger than Shiming and was at the Seventh Level of Qi Cultivation. His opponent was a "Hou"-generation Cultivator at the Eighth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    Unexpectedly, he was a Second Rank Superior Grade Array Master, and in the npetition, he instantly set up several Second Rank Intermediate Grade formations to achieve victory.


    The n was exceptionally satisfied with these six individuals, while the mid-stage Qi Cultivation tforms also saw a number of impressive younger members, such as Lin Shizhong, Lin Shiyan, and Lin Shike. Among them, Lin Shike and Lin Shizhong were both Fifth Level Qi Cultivators ¨C one a Talisman Master, the other an Artifact Refiner.


    The remaining top six were all Sixth Level Qi Cultivators.


    These Cultivators were all around twenty-three or twenty-four years old and belonged to the "Shi"-generation. Moreover, they all had been part of the Demon Hunting Team and had experienced many battles and skirmishes, which endowed them with no small measure ofbat experience.


    The best Spirit Root among them was merely a Third Spirit Root. Reaching this level was already a testament to the thriving prosperity of the Lin Family.


    It''s worth noting that Shiming himself had only broken through to thete stage of Qi Cultivation in his early twenties.


    On the contrary, his third sister, Lin Shiqi, at the Sixth Level of Qi Cultivation, was quickly eliminated. However, during these ten-plus years, she also became a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit nt Master, caring for many Spirit nts in Fangmu Mountain''s Spiritual Medicine Garden.


    Seeing this, he couldn''t help but think of his fourth brother, Lin Shiming, who always carried a coffin on his back. He wondered whether Shiming had achieved Foundation Establishment by now.


    Had he not insisted on going his way back then, the Lin Family would now have plenty of Foundation Establishment Pills.


    But as he thought then, the path one chooses sets the cause, and from that causees the effect of today.


    Among the early-stage Qi Cultivators, the one who surprised Shiming the most was Lin Shilei, who emerged victorious not as someone else, but as a Second Level Qi Cultivator.


    This twelve-year-old boy did not utilize thunder spells but instead wielded the Thunder Sword Technique. His speed far exceeded the ordinary, making him a rare match in the early stages of Qi Cultivation.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 142: Chapter 142 Bestowal of Treasures

    The familypetitionsted for three days, witnessing the vitality of the younger generation within the entire family.


    In particr, were three battles involving thete-stage Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family.


    Among thete-stage Qi Cultivators, it was Lin Houwei first up against Lin Shiyi.


    Even though this unpredictable thirteenth uncle often drank, the gourd hanging at his waist was not really a wine bottle.


    As soon as he opened the gourd, he threw it into the sky, where it transformed into a gigantic golden gourd.


    Countless grains of Jin Sha flew out, turning into various mystical beasts that charged at Lin Shiyi.


    As a practitioner of Body Cultivation, Lin Shiyi also disyed unparalleled strength and speed, closing the distance with a single step to arrive right in front of Lin Houwei, mming a supreme-grade spirit stick down hard onto him.


    Lin Houwei''s spiritual sand suddenly formed a massive sand shield, enveloping him!


    The tremendous noise burst forth like thunder, prompting the cultivators watching to step back a hundred meters.


    In their hearts, they couldn''t help but secretly wonder how they could possibly withstand such a strike themselves!


    During the fight, the golden sand was several times smashed apart by the stick, which carried the force of a thousand jun, but more golden sand poured forth. At the critical moment, the sand formed into a colossal hand, grabbing the iron rod, and then Lin Houwei summoned two flying swords from the sand, piercing Lin Shiyi''s shoulder when he was caught off guard.


    Lin Houwei was victorious!


    Lin Shiyi epted his defeat graciously, knowing he wasn''t a sore loser; he had never won in his spars with Lin Shijie and Lin Shiming. As a practitioner of Body Cultivation, he was always breaking his own limits.


    The elders of the Lin Family nodded repeatedly, admiring the strength of bothbatants.


    But Lin Houwei was evidently more cunning and his cultivation far more profound. It was normal for Lin Shiyi to fail in breaking his defenses and suffer defeat!


    "Second brother, if you can''t break the defense, you should have switched your attacks between the thirteenth uncle and the Golden Gourd, his Jin Sha isn''t actually that abundant!" Lin Shiming offered his critique and a hint to Lin Shiyi.


    "Thank you, Family Head, for the reminder!"


    "Thirteenth uncle wins!" Lin Shijie also announced Lin Houwei''s victory!


    With Lin Houwei''s victory, the battle between Lin Shitao and Lin Houxuanmenced.


    This battle didn''t hold much expectation from the crowd, as both Lin Shitao and Lin Houxuan were alchemists and presumably not particrly skilled inbat.


    Moreover, with Lin Houxuan at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level¡ªa solid cultivation level¡ªthe depth of his spiritual energy, the store of spells, and his magic artifacts were all clearly far superior to those of Lin Shitao.


    However, contrary to expectations, Lin Shitao opened with his Lotus Sword rising into the air, followed by a surge of mes.


    It was the Fire-returning Fire Sword Technique!


    The Fire Sword poured down amidst the mes, instantly pressing towards Lin Houxuan!


    Lin Shitao, worthy of being a Dual Spirit Root cultivator, executed the Fire-returning Fire Sword Technique with the power of Qi Cultivation Eighth Level, matching the force demonstrated by Lin Shijie previously. Ultimately, through a continuous set of Fire-returning Fire Sword techniques, he astonishingly defeated Lin Houxuan, who was at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    This stunned many people, including Lin Shiming, who did not expect Lin Shitao to win.


    However, in the subsequent matches, he was defeated by Lin Houwei, securing second ce in the end.


    The Golden Gourd''s Jin Sha also countered Lin Shitao''s Fire-returning Fire Sword Technique. Even after learning from the experience to counter the Golden Gourd, he did not anticipate Lin Houwei wielding yet another blue-coloured wine jar.


    This jar released a massive stream of Profound Water which extinguished the Fire-returning Fire Sword Technique, leading to Lin Shitao''s defeat.


    The final rankings were set, with Lin Shiyi and Lin Shiyun cing fourth and fifth respectively.


    Meanwhile, thirtieth uncle Lin Houyuan was in the sixth position.


    Within the mid-stage Qi Cultivation arena, Lin Shizhong, Lin Shike, and Lin Shiyan took the top three spots.


    Among them, Lin Shiyan at thest moment revealed a Spirit Beast he had been nurturing¡ªa Sabretooth Tiger. Although not fully grown, the tiger already possessed the peak strength of an early-stage Qi Cultivator. At a critical moment, it blocked Lin Shike''s Spirit Talisman for Lin Shiyan, securing the top spot.


    The Qi Cultivation Early Stagepetition ended with Lin Shileiing in first, Lin Shiyong second, and Lin Shilin third.


    The Lin Family did not reveal Lin Shilei''s identity as a possessor of an exceptional Spirit Root, so everyone only knew he had the Third Spirit Root. Him capturing the first ce in the Early Stagepetition at the Second Layer of Qi Cultivation truly astonished many, especially the Great Elder, Lin Yuqing.


    His face was brimming with smiles, his expression exceedingly cheerful!


    This was his own grandson!


    Further, they had not yet revealed his exceptional Spirit Root. Should the news of the Lin Family''s first member with such a root spread, it would undoubtedly cause an even bigger sensation.


    Right on the spot, Lin Yuqing dug deep into his own pockets and rewarded Lin Shilei with a bottle of Spirit Honey, which, incidentally, he had previously gifted to the Great Elder.


    At this time, his Spirit Honey bees numbered around eight hundred, so the annual yield of Spirit Honey would be greater than before.


    When it came time for the rewards, Lin Shiming promptly distributed them for both the Early and Mid Stage of Qi Cultivation.


    Among them were superb magic artifacts that he had collected over the years, which he now aptly used as rewards.


    It was also confirmed that the three prodigies of the family were Lin Shitao, Lin Houxuan, and Lin Houwei!


    For the rewards for theter-stage cultivators, Lin Shiming called the top five to the Council Hall.


    Of the five, everyone except Lin Shiyi was somewhat baffled.


    "I know you''re all confused, but our family has discovered a Yellow Grade Secret Realm, which only Qi Cultivators can enter. It''s dangerous, but it also holds opportunities!" Lin Shiming said.


    Upon hearing this, the eyes of the four other than Lin Shiyi nearly simultaneously lit up with an extraordinary glint.


    A Yellow Grade Secret Realm symbolized an uncountable number of spiritual medicines as well as some rare Demonic Beast resources.


    As for the dangers, they seemed insignificant in their eyes, especially for Lin Houwei and Lin Shiyi, who needed contribution points to exchange for Foundation Establishment Pills. If the exploration of the Secret Realm went well, the spiritual medicines they could bring out might be enough for them to reach Foundation Establishment.


    Lin Houxuan was also extremely tempted; as an alchemist, what hecked the most was rare spiritual medicines. If he found some in the Secret Realm, it would greatly benefit the advancement of his alchemy.


    "Uncle fifteen, you don''t need to go. The family currentlycks alchemists, and the Secret Realm remains unexplored!" said Lin Shiming, noticing Lin Houxuan''s keen interest.


    "Family Head, how can I be at peace if none of us Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators go, and instead let Shitao, with his Dual Spirit Root, go?" Lin Houxuan replied with a wry smile.


    The Lin Family indeed needed to be cautious of the unknown dangers within.


    But it''s important to note that there were only nine cultivators at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation in the entire Lin Family. If they didn''t send a few more, would they expect Lin Shitao, at the Qi Cultivation Seventh or Eighth Levels, to go?


    Lin Shiming was momentarily stunned; ording to his n, he had intended to select the strongest inbat among the cultivators at thete stage of Qi Cultivation from the various Elders, leaving the precious cultivators like alchemists and artifact refiners safely back on Fangmu Mountain.


    But now, contemting the Secret Realm that had been unexplored for so many years, he feared that there might be quite a few Demonic Beasts at thete stage of Qi Cultivation.


    If too few Ninth Level Qi Cultivators went, they might indeed harvest less and could potentially suffer casualties due to theirck of concentrated power, just like what happened in Peach Blossom Valley¡ªhad he not intervened at a critical moment with the Snake Vine Flower, they might not have taken it without damage.


    "Family Head, we need to put all our efforts into this. The mysteries of the Secret Realm are not yet known!" Lin Houxuan insisted.


    Lin Shiming fell silent, as no one backed away.


    The Secret Realm was naturally an opportunity, but it also harbored numerous Demonic Beasts.


    "I''ll consult with Uncle Seven about this matter!" Lin Shiming hesitated, noting to an immediate conclusion.


    Instead, he took out the magic artifacts, which served as the rewards for this familypetition, causing the cultivators to be overjoyed, even the thirteenth uncle, Lin Houwei, and the fifteenth uncle, Lin Houxuan, were tempted.


    When Lin Shiming was at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation, he was said to have fought dozens of other cultivators at the same level.


    In the end, Lin Shiming gave the Gold Thread and Silver Fment to Lin Houwei, the Five Elements Tower to Lin Houxuan, and the Heaven-Confining Bell to Lin Shitao.


    He gave the Thousand Layer Mountain to Lin Shiyi and the Profound Soul Needle to Lin Shiyun.


    To him, these artifacts were no longer of great use, but to Lin Houwei and others, they were akin to trump card artifacts.


    With these artifacts, all five of them felt even more confident.

 Chapter 143: Chapter 143 Thunder-attribute Techniques

    Atop the Qinglian Pond, Lin Shiming had just returned to his cave when suddenly a wave of heat hit him.


    What caught his eye first was a fiery red stone chamber.


    Moreover, the formation he had previously set up had been burned to ruin.


    The stone chamber opened from the inside, and then a fire-red monkey, as tall as an average adult, leaped out.


    Lin Shiming took a closer look and confirmed it was the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    At this moment, the demonic monkey had clearly broken through to the Third Rank, its Spirit Might radiating outward, swirling in all directions.


    Lin Shiming was overjoyed; the Red-haired Demon Monkey had broken through faster than he had expected, but thinking back on how it had used the blood of a whole ten Third Rank demonic monkeys for the Bloodline Reversion Secret Technique, it seemed normal.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey had shrunken considerably, now only the size of an average adult, its fur flowing likeva from a volcano, radiating unceasing waves of heat.


    Most surprising of all was the tail of the Red-haired Demon Monkey. The tail had grown longer, and at the end of it, there was no more thick fur, but instead a tuft of me that burned fervently and ceaselessly.


    Lin Shiming probed with his Divine Sense only to feel as if his sense would be burned away, so he hastily retracted it, feeling even more delighted. This me was clearly not an ordinary fire.


    The stone chamber had been heated to a fiery red because of this fiery tail.


    "This is just too lucky!" Lin Shiming was also stunned. The Red-haired Demon Monkey hadprehended its own Spiritual Fire!


    At this moment, even though the Red-haired Demon Monkey had just broken through to a Third Rank Demonic Beast, if it were to fight, it was feared that dozens of demonic monkeys of the same rank would not be a match for it.


    "Ao ao ao!" The Red-haired Demon Monkey pointed at Lin Shiming''s waist and kept calling out.


    Lin Shiming could only smile wryly and took out Beast Nurturing Pills, Spirit Beast meat, and Third Rank Spirit Water from his Storage Bag.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey grabbed everything with both hands, but surprisingly, it put the Spirit Water and Spirit Beast meat behind it, continuing to point at Lin Shiming''s waist and calling out.


    This left Lin Shiming somewhat puzzled.


    However, when he saw the Red-haired Demon Monkey pointing at the Spirit Beast Bag, he gave the fiery monkey a strange look.


    He then realized that the Red-haired Demon Monkey wanted to pick a fight with the Golden Winged Mantis.


    This was being severely provoked by the Golden Winged Mantis, wanting to fight as soon as it came out!


    Lin Shiming could not help but smile wryly as he released the Golden Winged Mantis, which indeed stopped its calls. Instead, it wanted to p the Golden Winged Mantis on the head with its palm, but at this moment, the Golden Winged Mantis was not any shorter than the other two.


    The p was met with a golden scythe-like leg, which scared the demonic monkey into leaping back.


    It then kept circling around the Golden Winged Mantis, although the mantis ignored it, remaining quiet.


    "Alright, eat some Spirit Food to stabilize a bit, otherwise, I''ll have to lock you up!" Lin Shiming immediately conveyed his dissatisfaction through the Spirit Contract.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey immediately lowered its voice and called out, seemingly disappointed. After gesturing a palm strike towards the Golden Winged Mantis, it turned to take its Spirit Water and Beast Nurturing Pill.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming felt somewhat helpless. The naughty monkey, having just broken through to the Third Rank, wanted to show off and pick a quarrel. But he knew it was for the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s benefit.


    Although the demonic monkey was incredibly strong and possessed Strange Fire, the speed of the Golden Winged Mantis''s six wings was unmatched even by Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators. The one to suffer in the end would only be the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    In the end, Lin Shiming took out the Profound Spirit Mountain.


    Without any exceptions, the Red-haired Demon Monkey snatched the Profound Spirit Mountain, lifting it up and down, throwing it and calling out joyfully.


    Lin Shiming then put the Red-haired Demon Monkey back into the stone chamber and went to find Lin Xianzhi, to set the cultivators for this uing Secret Realm expedition.


    ```


    The Seventh Great-Uncle was still in the pavilion, and there was still a game of chess in the pavilion, with both the white and ck pieces being Lin Xianzhi''s.


    Lin Shiming approached the chessboard and silently observed as Lin Xianzhi made each move after a long pause, white pieces attacking the ck, and ck attacking the white.


    When Lin Xianzhi saw Lin Shiminging over, he also turned his head.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming greeted respectfully.


    "For this journey to the Secret Realm, the fifteenth uncle also wishes to go, and if the fourth grandfather goes too..." Lin Shiming began, his voice tinged with concern.


    "Why should we stop them?" Lin Xianzhi shook his head and then continued,


    "Commoners all know that in life one should only seek a clear conscience and have no regrets in their actions!"


    "For those of us in the path of cultivations, isn''t it the same? Everyone pursues the Immortal Cultivation Dao. Who among them has not stumbled bloody and battered on the road to Immortal Cultivation and yet, if given another life, how many would give up the temptation of the Immortal Cultivation Dao, content to lead an ordinary life, to enjoy the mortal cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death!


    You must know, in the Great Dao, all things are possible!"


    "Even after the age of sixty, when one''s vitality is declining, it''s still possible to reach Foundation Establishment, even without a Foundation Establishment Pill, it''s still possible!"


    "Shiming, you must realize, without exception, both Loose Cultivators and family cultivators aspire towards the Great Dao. The difference lies in protection and tribute; they provide elixirs and artifact refining for the family, and in turn receive the family''s protection!"


    "Remember, you must never extinguish their heart that yearns for the Dao. You must remember, the soul of the family is forever the strongest. Only with Purple Mansion cultivators can a n be called the Purple Mansion Family, only with Golden Core cultivators can they be called the Golden Core Family!"


    "Now you are a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and your strength far exceeds that of the Early Stage. If the family is to develop, the family''s alchemists must also aim to be Third Rank, Intermediate Grade Alchemists, they too need to break through the Foundation Establishment Stage, so they can help you ascend to Purple Mansion!"


    "As for falling in battle, this is a preparation that should have been made at the very first step on the path of Immortal Cultivation!"


    After Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, he stood up and left, leaving Lin Shiming alone in the pavilion.


    He thought of his second grandfather, Lin Yuqi. If he had not risked his life for Foundation Establishment, Lin Yuqi would have had at least five or six more years to live.


    But this is the charm of the Immortal Cultivation Dao!


    If one does not take risks, how can one ever settle the restlessness of a lifetime!


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" At this moment, Lin Shiming hade to understand.


    Just as he was leaving the pavilion, a Spirit Talisman transformed into a golden light and flew toward him.


    Itnded in his hand.


    After ncing at it, Lin Shiming immediately mounted his sword and flew towards the Council Hall.


    Inside the hall, the Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, was waiting for him.


    "Granduncle! Lei Xuan has Thunder-attribute Profound Rank cultivation techniques?" Lin Shiming was also startled internally.


    The Spirit Message he received just now wasn''t from anyone other than Lin Yuqing, who informed him that not only did Lei Xuan know the location of the Secret Realm, but he himself was also a Thunder Spirit Root. Their family even possessed a Thunder-attribute Profound Rank cultivation technique that could be cultivated up to the Purple Mansion Late Stage.


    He was also cultivating the Profound Rank cultivation technique!


    "Family Head, indeed, all his techniques are of the thunder attribute!" Lin Yuqing was excited but not to the point of losing hisposure.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming nodded. If they could obtain the Thunder-attribute Profound Rank cultivation technique, Lin Shilei''s prospects would be much broader, and he could at least be considered a seed for the Purple Mansion stage within the family.


    "He said he wants to talk with you!" Lin Yuqing spoke again.


    "Alright, there''s no issue with that, Granduncle, please rest assured, Shiming will do his best!" Lin Shiming said, knowing that acquiring the technique was crucial, but as the Lin Family head, he also had a responsibility to the family.


    With the Secret Realm at stake, there could be no leak, not even the slightest. If Lei Xuan wants to exchange his freedom for the technique, there will naturally have to be restrictions.


    ```

 Chapter 144 Becoming a Son-in-law

    Next to Lin Family''s council hall, there is a row of guest rooms reserved for entertaining distinguished visitors.


    Although Lei Xuan was not considered a guest, given the matter of the Secret Realm, Lin Family had invited Lei Xuan over, and he would be taken care of by dedicated personnel.


    Lin Shiming called the cultivator guarding the door and knocked.


    "Fellow Daoist Lei."


    "Elder Lin, pleasee in!" Lei Xuan also opened the door, and upon seeing Lin Shiming, his face lit up with eagerness.


    Lin Shiming was slightly taken aback; he had been referred to as junior, fellow daoist, or Family Head before, but this was the first time someone had called him Elder Lin.


    However, ording to the rules of the Cultivation World, he did indeed qualify as an elder.


    With a lifespan of two hundred and fifty years after Foundation Establishment, he had unwittingly walked ahead of countless cultivators.


    Lei Xuan was not tall and was somewhat thin, but his eyes were bright and spirited.


    His face was neither servile nor overbearing, and Lin Shiming even felt he saw his former self reflected in Lei Xuan.


    Lei Xuan invited Lin Shiming into the room, to sit at the table set with aplete tea set, consisting of a tea table, teapot, tea cups, and everything needed.


    Lin Shiming''s face showed a hint of strangeness, as Lei Xuan seemed to be treating this ce a bit too much like his own home.


    With the Secret Realm involved, Lei Xuan either had to have his memory sealed or be imprisoned by Lin Family for life.


    Seeing that Lei Xuan made no move and did not touch upon the subject of Thunder-attribute Techniques, Lin Shiming also remained silent and simply sat quietly.


    In this situation, whoever spoke first would undoubtedly fall into a disadvantageous position. The family naturally did not want to take any risks, but if they could obtain Thunder-attribute Techniques, they certainly wanted them, as they rted to the future prospects of Lin Shilei of the current generation.


    Unless Lin Family could send Lin Shilei to a Sect.


    So he was in no hurry, for he was notcking in time.


    Lei Xuan held a steaming teapot in one hand, sprinkling a wisp of tea leaves with the other, pouring them into the boiling Spirit Water, his tea-making and pouring flowing in one smooth action.


    His graceful movements elicited admiration from Lin Shiming.


    As soon as the tea leaves steeped, a strong fragrance spread out, making Lin Shiming''s True Yuan pulsate, especially the True Yuan at his heart. A hidden stream of True Yuan within him stirred as if greatly agitated.


    Lin Shiming was inwardly shocked, not because the tea leaves were of Superior Grade at Second Rank, but because he sensed the same power of the Wood Demon''s heart as in his own body.


    This indicated that the tea leaves might have been plucked from the body of a Wood Demon.


    "What is the name of this tea?"


    "I am not sure of the name of these tea leaves either, but in our Family, we refer to it as Mingxin Tea! These leaves are not from the outside world; they can only be found in that Secret Realm. I can also show the elder the map shortly!" Lei Xuan respectfully replied.


    "Why not taste the vor of this hundred-year tea tree now, Elder?"


    Lin Shiming nodded and then took a light sip of the tea.


    The Mingxin Tea turned into a refreshing fragrance upon entering the mouth, lingering in the throat; the tea''s taste was long and profound. Although he was not a connoisseur of tea, he couldn''t deny the quality of this tea.


    Moreover, with a single sip, his True Yuan began to circte involuntarily, and he gained a bit of cultivation level out of thin air.


    Beyond that, it also gave one the feeling of a clear and transparent mind.


    "Excellent tea!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but praise.


    At the same time, he became very interested in the tea tree Wood Demon itself; if the tree were a Wood Demon, bringing it back to the Lin Family would give them an industry far surpassing Spirit Dishes¡ªthe Mingxin Tea.


    However, after enjoying the tea, it was time to get down to business.


    The air suddenly filled with an awkward tension.


    Lin Shiming was no longer the inexperienced youth, so he remained quite at ease.


    He poured himself a cup of tea and watched it, savored it.


    "Lin Elder, I won''t beat around the bush. I desire freedom and am willing to exchange an Inferior Grade Profound Rank Thunder-attribute Technique, along with a map and distribution of treasures in the Secret Realm!" Lei Xuan spoke up.


    Lin Shiming did not respond immediately, but took another delicate sip of tea.


    Finally, he set his tea cup on the table and gently tapped the table with his middle and index fingers before speaking slowly.


    "That''s possible, but we must seal your memories rted to the Secret Realm and the Lin Family," he said.


    After Lin Shiming finished speaking, Lei Xuan''splexion immediately turned somewhat unsightly.


    Sealing memories meant that he would have to open uppletely to Lin Shiming and his people. It also meant handing over the Family Jade Book and lifting its seal.


    By then, he would have no secrets left before Lin Shiming.


    And at that point, he would no longer have any initiative.


    "Lin Elder, I can swear not to reveal this matter to anyone!" Lei Xuan unconsciously leaned forward as he continued speaking to Lin Shiming.


    "No, you should know why your Lei Family has fallen into such rapid decline," Lin Shiming shook his head.


    Lei Xuan was no ordinary person. Identified as the heir of the Lei Family, he would be recognized by old enemies who could potentially trace their way back to the Lin Family.


    "Then, Lin Elder, may I marry into the Lin Family, offering the map of the Secret Realm and the Thunder-attribute Techniques as a bridal gift?" Lei Xuan spoke again.


    This request startled Lin Shiming.


    He had never even considered such a proposal from Lei Xuan before.


    Marrying into the family signified not only giving up his previous family identity but also his status as a free and independent Loose Cultivator.


    However, on second thought, if Lei Xuan wished to safely breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment or even the Purple Mansion stage, he would still need to purchase Foundation Establishment Pills, Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, and such. These would definitely not be provided by the opposing Purple Mansion Family, unless Lei Xuan joined a Sect.


    "I want to know why," Lin Shiming asked.


    "Toy low and seek revenge," Lei Xuan stated, and even though he appeared calm, a fierce light shed in his eyes.


    "Of course, I won''t endanger my family. I will wait until my Purple Mansion power is fully developed to take revenge!"


    "And who is the opposing family?" Lin Shiming continued to inquire.


    "The Zhang Family of Jinzhou!" Lei Xuan replied.


    Information about the Zhang Family immediately surged into Lin Shiming''s mind.


    The Zhang Family was a prominent n in Jinzhou, a region somewhat simr to Qingzhou, with more Purple Mansion Families and abundant resources and Spirit Veins. There were three Purple Mansion Families in total, among which the Zhang Family was one.


    It was rumored that the family had two Purple Mansion Cultivators within the Qingxuan Sect, and another at the Purple Mansion Late Stage.


    "This can be arranged. But if you are to marry in, do you have a desirable spouse in mind?" Lin Shiming pondered for a long while before deciding to agree.


    Had it been before, he might have hesitated, since Lei Xuan was a Spirit Root Cultivator who, with sess and ample resources, could certainly reach the Purple Mansion stage.


    But now that he knew he might possess atent Spiritual Body, he had more than enough confidence to keep Lei Xuan in check.


    Not to mention, he had the system notifications.


    If there was any danger, the system would notify him. Now, with Lei Xuan appearing genuinely interested in marrying into the family, perhaps seeking to use the family''s influence,


    "Lin Shiqi!" Lei Xuan spoke up once more.


    With this definitive response, Lin Shiming also instantly understood.


    Lei Xuan likely knew from the start that he couldn''t leave freely and had long since considered marrying into the family to retain autonomy and join the n.


    The Lin Family''s policy of nurturing disciples seemed to be made precisely for geniuses.

 Chapter 145 The Candidate is Decided

    "Have you seen Lin Shiqi?" Despite having thought through it thoroughly, Lin Shiming finally asked.


    "We''ve chatted a few times and enjoyed our conversations immensely!"


    "Good, but I still need to ask my third sister!" Lin Shiming ultimately replied.


    If Lei Xuan were to marry into the Lin Family, not only would it bring Thunder-attribute techniques, but it would also add a genius cultivator with a rare Spirit Root. Most importantly, it would perfectly solve Lei Xuan''s own problem.


    Without Lei Xuan, they couldn''t find the Yellow Grade Secret Realm, and to make Lei Xuan guide them, they must swear an oath to the Heavenly Dao not to kill him.


    This would certainly leave behind hidden dangers.


    Of course, as the Family Head of the Lin Family, he also faced more dangers and had to be more cautious of the Zhang Family.


    But in reality, for the Lin Family, ever since the Yellow Grade Secret Realm became involved, they were destined to be even more cautious.


    "Elder, please release my seal, and I will immediately inscribe the Secret Technique!" Lei Xuan said, clearly delighted and promptly spoke up.


    "There''s no hurry, my third sister hasn''t agreed yet!"


    "Shiqi has already agreed before!" Lin Shiming said with a somewhat unusual smile at the corner of his mouth as he saw Lei Xuan''s eagerness.


    All of a sudden, an image of Lin Shiqi came to his mind. He hadn''t expected that his third sister''s heart would be captured within a mere half month.


    As expected, Lin Shiqi, who was waiting outside, knocked on the door, as if she had been standing by the whole time.


    "Family Head!" Lin Shiqi greeted Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiqi no longer appeared as capricious as she was a decade ago; instead, her hair was now put up in a bun.


    "My feelings for Xuan Lang are genuine."


    "Third sister, are you sure you understand him?"


    Lin Shiqi nodded.


    "Alright, so be it!" Seeing this, Lin Shiming shook his head and turned towards Lei Xuan.


    "You''re a smart man, you should know what should and what should not be done!"


    Lin Shiming released Lei Xuan''s binding, who then inscribed the location and map of the Secret Realm, and at the same time, the Thunder-attribute techniques.


    For him, the most reliable judgment was of the Thunder-attribute techniques.


    At the moment, whether or not Lei Xuan had deceived Lin Shiqi, if there were any errors with the techniques and the map, his system would likely alert him.


    At the same time, another critical issue was that since Lei Xuan was marrying in, he would remove the prohibitive formations in his mind and rece them with the Lin Family''s family jade book and prohibitive formations.


    Also, he would swear an oath to the Heavenly Dao with his heart tied to the Lin Family.


    Soon enough, Lei Xuan handed over two jade slips to Lin Shiming; one was inscribed with the technique of Purple Lightning Divine Thunder Art, and the other jade slip was inscribed with the location of the Secret Realm and the map of the Yellow Grade Secret Realm within.


    The Purple Lightning Divine Thunder Art was a Profound Rank Inferior Grade cultivation technique, apanied by a secret technique, powerful enough to be cultivated up to thete stages of Purple Mansion.


    Lin Shiming epted the jade slips and then took his leave.


    He left Lin Shiqi and Lei Xuan alone in the room.


    Lin Shiming did not seek Lin Yuqing immediately; instead, he flew toward the Qinglian Pool.


    In the pavilion by the Qinglian Pool, he released his Divine Sense, directing it toward the side chamber next to the council hall.


    After observing Lei Xuan for half an hour and confirming numerous times that there was no acting or falsity in Lei Xuan''s eyes, he gradually put his mind at ease.


    He then sent a message to Lin Yuqing, asking him toe to the Qinglian Pool.


    At this moment, Lin Shilei had also be another exception in the Lin Family, having a newly established cave dwelling by the Qinglian Pool during his Qi Cultivation Stage.


    It is worth noting that thest exception was Lin Shiming himself.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Yuqing sought Lin Shilei, who had grown noticeably more robust than two years ago and had be a strapping young man.


    "Family Head, Grandfather!" Lin Shilei also hurried out to greet them.


    "Shilei, try modifying this cultivation technique!" Lin Shiming directly took out the Jade Slip.


    Lin Shilei being only at the Qi Cultivation Second Level, altering the technique was simpler. Moreover, with Lin Shiming, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, present, he could help Lin Shilei dissipate his cultivation in a short time.


    Then, they could replenish the spiritual energy.


    The previous Thunder-attribute Technique was only of the Yellow Grade Superior Rank, with a cultivation limit of Foundation Establishment Late Stage. So without much thought, he immediately began to dissipate his cultivation and start anew.


    A day passed, and Lin Shilei sessfully dissipated his old cultivation and started anew.


    Afterpleting a Minor Cirction and a Grand Cirction all by himself and triple-checking that there were no issues, Lin Shiming finally walked out of Lin Shilei''s dwelling.


    Lin Yuqing also emerged with a smile on his face.


    "Thank you, Family Head!"


    "Where is thating from, Grandpa? Even if we do not mention that you are a family elder, Shilei himself is a true genius!" Lin Shiming replied with a smile.


    "But about Lei Xuan..." Lin Yuqing now knew about the matter of Lei Xuan marrying into the family.


    "No problem, it seems Lei Xuan has no other choice, just as we have none. Besides, I see that his feelings for the third sister are genuine," Lin Shiming replied. Then, seeing that Lin Yuqing wanted to say more, he spoke again:


    "Even if Lei Xuan truly harbors ill intentions, does Grandfather really think that Shiming would not be able to control Lei Xuan? When the timees, Shilei will have grown strong enough to suppress Lei Xuan as well!"


    Lin Shiming''s words were not without reason, as he now possessed the Body Refining Technique Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique, the consciousness-tempering Secret Technique, and the Spirit Refinement Secret.


    He only needed to consolidate his cultivation for ten years, and he would be able to make great strides.


    With absolute strength at his disposal, he felt confident that there was nothing to worry about.


    After Lin Yuqing left, Lin Shiming then reported the news to Lin Xianzhi.


    Thetter nodded his head repeatedly, obviously quite satisfied with this decision.


    In this way, not only was the issue of how to induct Lei Xuan into the Lin Family''s Family Jade Book resolved, preserving the secret of the Secret Realm, but the family also gained a genius.


    As Lin Shiming''s Great Uncle Seven, Lin Xianzhi was even looking forward to what kind of talent the progeny of Lei Xuan and Lin Shiqi would have.


    As for the enemy Lei Family, once they had sufficient strength, the Lin Family might even help Lei Xuan resolve his inner turmoil.


    With the affirmation from his Great Uncle Seven, Lin Shiming had no more doubts in his heart.


    Due to Lei Xuan''s identity, however, the wedding was not announced with great fanfare but was celebrated in a small ceremony by the various elders.


    Lei Xuan had truly married into the Lin Family from the Lei Family.


    From there on, he was a member of the Lin Family, bound by both the Family Jade Book and an oath to the Heavenly Dao.


    Three days after the celebration ended, the candidates for entering the Secret Realm were finally decided.


    This time, for entering the Yellow Grade Secret Realm, the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators included the Law Enforcement Hall Master Lin Yuqing, the Demon Hunting Hall Master Lin Houyong, the Formation Hall Master Lin Houshou, the Commerce Hall Master Lin Yuzheng, the thirteenth of the ''Hou'' generation Lin Houwei, and the fifteenth Lin Houxuan.


    Aside from the Artifact Refining Hall Master Lin Yutie, nearly all the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level elders applied to enter the Yellow Grade Secret Realm.


    The Qi Cultivation Eighth Level included Lin Shitao, Lin Houyuan, Lin Shiyi, and Qi Cultivation Seventh Level included people like Lin Shiyu.


    A total of thirteen people.


    This time, the Lin Family was mostly sending its upper echelons not only to maintain secrecy but also because it was the first opening of the Yellow Grade Secret Realm in thirty years. There were concerns about the strong power of the Demonic Beasts inside, fearing that if family cultivators were not strong enough, they might fall within the Secret Realm.


    Before setting off, the Lin Family also announced an Elders'' Contest.


    With the activation of the Mountain Protection Array, even the cultivators who were called back from various ces were not allowed to leave.

 Chapter 146: Chapter 146 Natural Formation

    Jinzhou, Pinghe County.


    A spirit boat flew through the sky,ing to a halt before two adjacent mountains of Qing Mountain.


    A young man in green stood before another with white hair, holding a jade slip, frowning.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, with twin peaks steep as sword edges, this must be the ce!"


    "Hmm, check it out!"


    This group was none other than the Lin Family cultivators who had rushed over from Fangmu Mountain, including both Lin Shiqi and Lei Xuan.


    However, as Lei Xuan had never been to the secret realm either, and only had records from ancestral texts, they hade upon many twin peaks.


    But they had not found the entrance to the secret realm.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, there''s ake, it must be here!" At the foot of Qing Mountainy a colossalke, a thousand zhang in size.


    The giantke did not emit a trace of spiritual energy, as if it were truly just an ordinary mountainke.


    The surface of theke was unusually calm, and even a slight breeze failed to cause a ripple.


    "This is not ake, it''s a formation!" Lin Houshou suddenly walked to the very front of the spirit boat, speaking with certainty.


    Then, Lin Houshou took out some formation gs and began breaking the formation.


    Lei Xuan stood behind, watching, as it was clear he didn''t know about the formation concealing the secret realm.


    This prompted him to step forward, seemingly wanting to exin to Lin Shiming, after all, the contents of the jade slip didn''t fully match up.


    Yet, the Lin Family members weren''t surprised at all; if there were no formations, the secret realm would have been discovered by others long ago.


    "This isn''t a man-made formation, this is a natural Spirit Concealing Formation!" Lin Houshou, after inspecting it, packed away one set of formation gs and excitedly took out a new set.


    For him, ordinary formations might not be much of a challenge, but this was a formation of heavenly and earthly powers, a force of nature.


    Not to mention mastering it, even understanding the basics would be immensely beneficial to him.


    "I''ve found the life gate!" Lin Houshou eximed excitedly after continuously probing with the formation gs.


    And everyone, following his gaze, saw that Lin Houshou had stopped at a corner of theke.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, Family Head, it''s here, this is the node that connects the secret realm with this world!"


    Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming also immediately went to thekeside to the spot Lin Houshou had indicated.


    "It''s too well hidden!" After scanning several times with his divine sense, only then did he discover that every quarter-hour, the space would ripple once.


    And it should be noted that if an outsider were to look from this spot, they would simply think it was a ripple on theke, without any suspicion.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, it''s up to you to break through the barrier now!" Lin Shiming said respectfully to Lin Xianzhi.


    This Yellow Grade small secret realm had a very thin barrier to the world, after all, the spiritual power of a small world is still drawn from the main world.


    A group of five or six Foundation Establishment cultivators could break through, or even a single cultivator at the peak of Foundation Establishment could manage it.


    Lin Xianzhi did not hesitate, casting out his Qinglian Sword, and instantly a surge of green sword light burst forth.


    However, Lin Shiming faintly noticed that within the green sword light, there was a golden light.


    Renshui on the outside, Geng Metal on the inside; this was clearly the sword technique that the Seventh Great Uncle had improved after the Renshui Geng Metal Art. Although it no longer seemed as overwhelmingly powerful and imposing as before.


    But he believed that the Seventh Great Uncle''s sword moves would be even more ferocious, with restrained sword might andpressed sword light, which, upon eruption, would likely far surpass the previous strength.


    Indeed, with a light shout from Lin Xianzhi,


    a stroke of green sword light cut through, apanied by the blooming of a green lotus flower, instantly filling the sky with sword qi,yer uponyer.


    That part of space, like a mirror, shattered.


    A giant void of pitch-ck nothingness was revealed.


    Upon seeing this, Lin Xianzhi took out a third-rank superior grade Spirit Stabilizing Talisman and secured the passage to prevent the space from healing.


    "We''ve seeded!" Lin Shiming was also exceptionally delighted when he saw this. He then summoned the Golden Luan Eagle to scout ahead.


    The Golden Luan Eagle first perched on Lin Shiming''s shoulder, sipped some Spirit Water, and nibbled on a piece of Spirit Beast meat before slowly heading toward the ck hole.


    Soon after the Golden Luan Eagle flew in, in the blink of an eye, everyone could no longer see its figure.


    Only Lin Shiming could sense that the Golden Luan Eagle hadn''t died.


    Half a quarter-hour!


    A full quarter-hour!


    Half an hour after the Golden Luan Eagle had entered, it finally flew out again, unharmed, and even brought back an unknown Spirit Fruit.


    Seeing this, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. It was Lin Shiming who had instructed the Golden Luan Eagle to arrogantly circle around inside the Secret Realm.


    If there were third-rank Demonic Beasts, then the Golden Luan Eagle likely wouldn''t have been able to leave this small Secret Realm.


    "Great-grandfather, and everyone, get ready. We can enter now. Remember to follow the map as the primary guide and be careful!"


    Lin Shiming kept reminding everyone. This was the Lin Family''s first time obtaining a Yellow Grade Secret Realm and also the first time sending people into one.


    "Everyone, pay attention to the Golden Thunder Bamboo and the Mingxin Tea Trees, especially thetter, as there might be wood spirits within the Mingxin Tea Trees!" Lin Shiming, blending the information from Lei Xuan, reminded everybody.


    The Golden Thunder Bamboo and the Mingxin Tea Trees were both quite important, with thetter being possibly developed into an industry.


    As for the alluring grass, he only told people to be mindful. The little bearded cultivator had only attracted their attention with his ramblings; it wasn''t truly existent in this Secret Realm.


    On the contrary, there were plenty of other Spirit Grasses, even third-rank ones. The possibility of third-rank Spirit Fruits appearing was there, and the highest guardian Spirit Beasts were second-rank peak Demonic Beasts.


    "Don''t worry, Shiqi!" called out Lin Shitao, still raising her fist and calling him "Shiqi." After saying that, she turned and walked toward the Secret Realm, leaving behind a charming figure.


    After her, the Lin Family members also entered the Yellow Grade Secret Realm one by one, while Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi took up the role of protectors, vigntly surveying the surroundings.


    They were on alert for the sudden appearance of Demonic Beasts that might disrupt the passage.


    Lei Xuan and Lin Shiqi were also waiting outside with them.


    Once thest person entered, Lin Xianzhi retrieved the Spirit Talisman.


    The secret passage immediately began to slowly heal.


    After confirming there were no issues, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi each chose a corner to quietly stand guard.


    They had alreadymunicated beforehand that in three days, they would reopen the passage to greet thoseing out.


    This time, Lin Xianzhi even brought the Family Jade Book, vowing that if the family members'' casualties exceeded one-third, he would immediately break the barrier and get Lin Yuqing and the others out.


    Lin Shiming settled by a corner of theke, took out a cushion for focusing and calming the mind, and also released both the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    As the Red-haired Demon Monkey appeared, theke waters around it began to boil as the terrifying heat caused the entireke surface to start hissing!


    After receiving a gesture from Lin Shiming, the Red-haired Demon Monkey also leaped, bounding towards the two Qing Mountains in one jump.


    This was also a precaution in case enemies or Demonic Beasts were approaching from afar.


    Lei Xuan, watching the Red-haired Demon Monkey and its trailing tail, was utterly shocked. Such a mystical creature likely had abat power even stronger than that of an average cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage!


    Then, thinking of Lin Shiming''s strength,


    Lei Xuan''s look of respect for Lin Shiming grew even more profound.


    What he didn''t know was that, not far from him, a Golden Winged Mantis dressed in a Qinglian Taoist Robey quietly prostrate.

 Chapter 147: Chapter 147 Tea Tree Wood Demon

    In the Secret Realm, a bright green figure was carefully and swiftly moving through the dense forest.


    Close behind her was a cultivator in green robes, with a gourd of wine in tow, following closely.


    These two were none other than Lin Shitao and Lin Houwei.


    Upon entering the Secret Realm, the members of the Lin Family split into six groups ording to their strength, each moving ording to their own ns.


    Usually, a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator was paired with a Qi Cultivation Eighth Level or Qi Cultivation Seventh Level cultivator.


    Only Lin Houxuan, as an alchemist, was paired with the body cultivator Lin Shiyi and the array master Lin Shiyun.


    "Uncle Thirteen, let''s go straight to find the Mingxin Tea!"


    "Actually, finding some Spirit Fruits for brewing Spiritual Wine wouldn''t be bad either," Lin Houwei muttered, but seeing that thetter hardly paused and headed toward the valley of Mingxin Tea as recorded on the Jade Slip Map,


    he could only sigh and follow along.


    After passing through the dense forest, the two arrived at a tea valley, where many tea trees appeared.


    The tea trees were sprouting tender buds as if eagerly soaking up the sunlight in early spring.


    At first nce, it all felt lush with greenery, brimming with endless vitality.


    All of them were, in fact, Spiritual Tea Trees.


    "Uncle Thirteen, be careful. The Jade Slip records that there are Illusory Yellow Bees here that can release a type of hallucinogenic pollen," Lin Shitao reminded once again.


    Lin Houwei nodded, looking at Lin Shitao with a trace of sentiment in his eyes.


    This girl, indeed, would throw herself into danger for anything advantageous to Lin Shiming, regardless of the situation.


    It was well known among the Lin Family members that Lin Shiming was a Wood Attribute cultivator, and over the years, quite a few family disciples with Wood Attribute Spirit Roots had begun to mainly practice Wood Attribute Techniques.


    Finding the Tea Tree Wood Demon would be most beneficial to Lin Shiming.


    Sure enough, in the next moment, the two felt a blur before their eyes, and a heavy drowsiness engulfed them.


    Instantly, they each took out an elixir and swallowed it, and the following moment, they saw swathes of palm-sized yellow spirit bees appear before them.


    In front of the spirit bees was a spread of light white pollen.


    These spirit bees were different from the spirit bees Lin Shiming used to locate things; these bees hardly produced any spiritual honey, devouring all the nectar on the spot and storing it as hallucinogenic powder.


    This type of bee, a Second Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Beast, posed a danger with its element of surprise. Had they note prepared, without the map''s pointers, they likely would have been overwhelmed by the hallucinogenic powder, and ifter enveloped by even more apparent pollen, they might have attacked each other.


    Both held their breaths; Lin Shitao unleashed her Qinglian Sword and executed the Fire-returning Fire Sword technique, instantly creating numerous ming sword beams that spread toward the Illusory Yellow Bees.


    Lin Houwei also threw out his gourd, from which an outpouring of sand erupted, bing a sandstorm that swallowed the Illusory Yellow Bees.


    With theirbined spells, hundreds of Illusory Yellow Bees were killed instantly.


    Upon the death of the spirit bees, Lin Shitao made a grand gesture, creating a hand of spiritual energy to collect the bees'' stingers.


    Then, she approached the Spiritual Tea Trees and began to pluck the fresh and tender tips of the leaves.


    Spiritual Tea Trees were different from ordinary tea trees; only a few clusters at the very top of the tea trees were brimming with spiritual energy and considered top-grade spiritual tea.


    A Spiritual Tea Tree of about ten years could cover the sky yet would only yield roughly two taels of spiritual tea, and keep in mind, this was after the Secret Realm had not been harvested for thirty years.


    From the entire grove of hundreds of Spiritual Tea Trees, in the end, they likely could only harvest around twenty or so jin of spiritual tea.


    Previously, when the Lei Family entered every ten years, they could only harvest about ten jin of Mingxin Tea each time.


    In the center of the tea trees stood an enormous tea tree, about three to four meters tall with a very wide crown, thick and dense, presently even blooming with camellia flowers.


    "Without doubt, that''s the Second Rank Supreme Grade tea tree!" Both made their way toward the tree.


    This was clearly the second rank supreme grade Mingxin Tea Tree that the Lei Family hadst harvested.


    Only the effects of this tea tree were the best; if one took the first sip, there was even a chance for cultivators to break through some minor bottlenecks and greatly increase their cultivation level.


    Drinking it over the long term could also enhance the cultivators'' understanding and allow them to enlighten their minds to the Dao.


    "Be careful!" Just as Lin Shitao stepped forward, Lin Houwei also shouted loudly.


    Suddenly, from behind Lin Shitao and unbeknownst to her, a tree person surged up from the ground, numerous roots lunging towards Lin Shitao''s chest.


    The spirit tree''s roots were extremely fast.


    However, Lin Shitao was not surprised; as if she had been prepared, she thrust out the Fire-returning Fire Sword with one hand, smashing all the spirit roots to pieces.


    At the same time, a golden gourd appeared above Lin Shitao''s head, countless grains of spiritual sand turning into a spirit shield, blocking the roots that surged from the main body of the tea tree.


    When faced with the fiery sword, the Tea Tree Wood Demon showed fear in its eyes and rushed back towards the ground.


    But it was toote; a strand of golden thread had passed through its roots unknown to it.


    The incredibly hard roots, at this moment, seemed like tofu, easily severed.


    The Tea Tree Wood Demon immediately let out a cry of pain, like that of a mystical beast.


    As a wood demon, it could move and attack just like a demonic beast, but ultimately it was only a wood demon; with its roots cut off, its vital energy was greatly damaged.


    What awaited it was a golden spirit bell.


    It was indeed the Trapping Heaven Bell.


    A mysterious light shed, and the Trapping Heaven Bell directly trapped the wood demon''s main body.


    "As expected, just as Seventh Brother predicted!" Lin Shitao with a beaming smile said, then also put away the Trapping Heaven Bell.


    "Really not bad, the Family Head truly lived up to my expectations growing up; the golden-threaded silver wire magic artifact you gave me is simply a godly weapon!" Lin Houwei sighed with emotion after dealing with the wood demon and finally rxed a bit, taking a small sip of Spiritual Wine.


    "We should take the main body of the tea tree with us as well; it might still survive!" Lin Shitao then took out her Spirit Sword and uprooted the tea tree king along with its roots.


    As for the ordinary spiritual tea trees, they only uprooted about ten; the remaining ones might grow even better within the secret realm.


    ...


    While Lin Shitao and herpanion were harvesting, at a ck crocodile den,


    at that moment, three cultivators were quietly observing from not too far away.


    About ten huge crocodiles, cloaked in a faint glow,y in the pool''s water, quietly waiting for food to arrive.


    "Isn''t that the Baiting Flower that the Family Head spoke of?" Lin Shiyi asked Lin Houxuan.


    They hade to find the Blood Crocodile Flower that could aid in training body refinement techniques, but to their surprise, next to the blood-red Blood Crocodile Flowers, there were also some pale red spirit flowers.


    And the number of spirit crocodiles far exceeded the trio''s expectations; there were at least twenty, with three being demonic beasts at the peak of Qi Cultivation Ninth Level.


    "It''s the Baiting Flower!" Lin Houxuan, as an alchemist, naturally recognized it and fiercely nodded.


    They all knew that Lin Shiming needed the Baiting Flower, and its contribution points could also be massive when exchanged within the family;ter they could use them to exchange for Foundation Establishment Pills.


    Perhaps they wouldn''t owe the family a debt of contribution points like Lin Houyong then.


    However, even with treasures before them, the three did not move; rather, they showed troubled expressions.


    They were not a match for these twenty-odd spirit crocodiles.


    "Uncle Fifteen, I cany ate-stage formation; let''s lure the crocodiles!"


    "Crocodiles fight over food, and second rankte-stage demonic beasts will also have disputes; we just need to lure them slowly!"

 Chapter 148 The Spiritual Crocodile Business Opportunity

    Lin Shiyun took out the array gs and began setting up the formation at the narrow entrance to the crocodile pool.


    The formation was crafted from supreme grade array gs by Lin Houshou, which made it extremely convenient to set up. Lin Shiyu''s talent in array formations was not weak, so when he started setting it up, the formation was quickly in ce.


    Once the formation wasplete, Lin Shiyi also nodded in approval. Suddenly, he pulled out an iron rod and smashed it down on a ck-skinned giant crocodile at the outermost edge of the crocodile pool.


    The Spirit Crocodile, thinking it was preying to drink water, prepared to stay motionless, unaware that Lin Shiyi wasing for the crocodiles.


    The Spirit Crocodile had only managed to open its huge jaw, but Lin Shiyi had already struck with his rod, instantly causing a cracking sound of breaking bones. A second rank intermediate grade Demonic Crocodile was directly smashed to death.


    Almost simultaneously with this strike, countless thick water arrows shot out, followed by five or six huge crocodiles with a strong scent leaping out of the water, biting towards Lin Shiyi.


    Among them were two second rankte-stage Demonic Crocodiles and one second rank peak Demonic Crocodile.


    Luckily, Lin Shiyi had taken out a Godspeed Talisman in advance. With a p of the talisman, his already terrifying speed increased even more, quickly retreating towards the edge of the pool.


    As expected, only the few Demonic Crocodiles that had leaped forward chased quickly and rushed into the formation.


    Clearly, the three second rank peak Demonic Crocodiles each dominated one of the three corners of the crocodile pool, forming three separate groups.


    Almost at the same time as the crocodiles entered the formation, a Thousand Layer Mountain swiftly flew out, transformed into a huge mountain, and smashed down on that second rank peak Demonic Crocodile.


    Along with the cover of the formation, the Five Elements Tower rushed out, and Five Elements Spells bombarded several Spirit Crocodiles


    Various spirit light spells were cast like a nket from the sky; even the crocodiles, with their thick hides and flesh, couldn''t fully withstand it.


    The second rank peak Demonic Crocodile King obviously panicked, trying to withstand the Thousand Layer Mountain, but unbeknownst to it, two snow-white silver threads pierced through, instantly perforating the Demonic Crocodile King''s skull.


    It was the Profound Soul Needle!


    The three of them then used arge number of Flying Swords to y all the remaining Spirit Crocodiles.


    "The Family Head''s magic artifacts are truly terrifying!" After using them, the three exchanged nces, then felt somewhat emotional.


    If they hadn''t had those three supreme grade magic artifacts, it would have taken them a lot more effort to kill the Spirit Crocodiles.


    "Let''s continue luring them out. The Secret Realm still has plenty of good things, and our family is only taking a fifty percent cut this time," Lin Houxuan continued.


    The other two nodded again and again, confident that with these three magic artifacts in hand, their harvest would not be much less than the family''s senior members with the surname Yu.


    Especially Lin Houxuan, he was hopeful that the gains from this trip,bined with the harvest from his Alchemy Hall, would umte to a hundred thousand contribution points and allow him to exchange for a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    "Uncle Fifteen, what if we raise these crocodiles in Qinglian Lake? Would the family''s needs for Spirit Armor be covered?" Lin Shiyun suddenly spoke, pinching the corpse of a Spirit Crocodile.


    Lin Shiyi and Lin Houxuan also squatted down and stroked the crocodile''s hide.


    They felt an incredibly smooth sensation, but they knew that during the attack, if it were not for the formation and those three supreme grade magic artifacts, they wouldn''t have even been able to prate the defense, which indicated the thickness of the Spirit Armor.


    "We can, capture a few alive and take them out to ask Uncle Four! The family has been raising Red Spirit Fish, so now with Foundation Establishment Cultivators, raising Spirit Crocodiles shouldn''t be a problem, especially since the Spirit Crocodiles are also highly dependent on water," Lin Houxuan''s eyes also lit up with the idea.


    They then continued to lure out Spirit Crocodiles, but only killed the second rankte-stage and second rank peak ones, while the second rank intermediate Spirit Crocodiles were captured alive by Lin Houxuan and the other two, totaling six.


    Once the Spirit Crocodiles were in, the trio began to collect Blood Crocodile Flowers and Seduction Flowers.


    Lin Houxuan was particrly careful in collecting the Seduction Flowers, aware of their importance to Lin Shiming and knowing about the existence of the Seduction Demon Pill.


    After collecting the ripe Spiritual Medicines, they also collected some young seedlings of the medicines.


    They didn''t harvest everything, at the same time, they released two Spirit Crocodiles back into the crocodile pool.


    This was not because they were merciful, but because the family would return in ten years, and they did not want the secret realm to have be a dead one by then.


    ...


    At this moment, aside from Crocodile Pond, many areas within the secret realm were still busy ughtering demonic beasts, gathering spiritual medicine and spirit fruits.


    ...


    At Nameless Mountain, Lin Yuqing''s eyes burned with fervor as he stowed away the hide of a second-rank peak demonic beast, and then plucked an Essence Fruit, the main ingredient needed for refining Essence Pills, from a third-rank spiritual medicine.


    The age of the spiritual medicine was considerable, worth tens of thousands of spirit stones if it were ced on the market.


    And in this ce, Lin Yuqing had already harvested quite a number of third-rank spirit fruits.


    Apanying Lin Yuqing was a Qi Cultivation eighthyer cultivator from the younger "Hou" generation!


    "Uncle, your strength is bing more and more formidable. You can even effortlessly ughter second-rank peak demonic beasts!"


    "This is merely due to prior knowledge of the demonic beast''s weakness; there''s nothing to boast about. The current ''Shi'' and ''Hou'' generations are the ones truly brimming with talents!"


    Lin Yuqing responded cheerfully. With Lin Shilei''s arrival, he had achieved a state of inner fulfillment, and his strength had inadvertently improved by another notch.


    It was just a pity that he was already over sixty and could not contest for Foundation Establishment.


    But to have been born at a time when the Lin Family was in decline and to depart during its time of glory was also a fortunate matter.


    ...


    Throughout the secret realm, there were traces of Lin Family teams everywhere. Thanks to Lei Xuan''s map, the Lin Family had intimate knowledge of the various demonic beasts.


    Only a few suddenly mutated demonic beasts caused trouble for the Lin Family.


    Lin Houshou, as a second-rank peak Array Master, reaped huge rewards, harvesting no less than ten third-rank spiritual medicines, and plenty of supreme grade second-rank spiritual medicines.


    Three days blinked by, and Lin Xianzhi outside, as promised, opened the formation.


    A group of people, faces full of joy.


    Thirteen people went in, and twelve came out. Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming also let out sighs of relief at the same time.


    To them, casualties were entirely unavoidable.


    And judging by everyone''s expressions, although there was some sorrow, the joy on their faces could not bepletely hidden.


    "Let''s set out, return to Fangmu Mountain and discuss further. Everyone present must swear an oath to the Heavenly Dao to not divulge any news of the secret realm!"


    Lin Xianzhi took out a superior grade third-rank Spirit Boat, set sail immediately, and flew towards Fangmu Mountain.


    Seeing that Lin Xianzhi did not initiate a conversation, nobody else brought up the topic either. Instead, they seized the time on the Spirit Boat to practice and recuperate their spiritual energy. This time, only Lin Houyuan and Lin Shijie were left in the Lin Family Fangmu Mountain territory.


    There were only a few Qi Cultivationte stage cultivators stationed there, and everyone was somewhat concerned about Fangmu Mountain.


    And Lin Shiming, through the ounts of Lin Shitao and Lin Houxuan, learned about the existence of the wooden demon and the Seduction Demon Grass.


    For him, this was undoubtedly fantastic news; his Spirit Ants could finally be bred through mutual consumption.


    Moreover, with the heart of a wooden demon, Lin Shiming was thinking about nurturing a wooden demon to the third rank and then refining a Green Lotus Heart.


    The Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique allowed for the simultaneous existence of two Green Lotus Hearts at most. While Mingxin Tea was of the shrub variety, the existence of a wooden demon was different altogether.

 Chapter 149 Huge Harvest

    Fangmu Mountain, beside Qinglian Pool, at the pavilion, the ce had once again be bustling.


    All those who had participated in the Yellow Grade Secret Realm expedition, except for Lei Xuan and Lin Shiqi, had gathered here.


    "Alright, everyone, let''s share our gains. The family will take fifty percent, which the family will buy at half the contribution value. Also, if you''re willing to sell the remaining fifty percent of materials, the family will purchase them at a contribution value exceeding the standard rate by twenty percent!" Lin Shiming, as the Family Head, was the first to speak.


    And all eyes turned towards Lin Yuqing. As the Great Elder of the family, and the Master of the Law Enforcement Hall, it was natural for him to showcase his gains first.


    "Alright, I''ll go first!" Lin Yuqingughed heartily and then revealed the spiritual medicine he had obtained. There were twenty strands of Third Rank Spirit Grass, including four Essence Fruits and five Rejuvenation Herbs.


    The former is the main ingredient for alchemists to refine Essence Pills which can enhance cultivation level, while thetter is the main ingredient for Rejuvenation Pills.


    Both are quite valuable. Sold in somerge shops, they could fetch up to ten thousand Spirit Stones per strand. Of course, for the Lin Family at the moment, with a Third Rank Alchemist, there was naturally no need to sell the spiritual herbs. Transforming them into Elixirs would definitely yield a higher profit.


    The rest of the Third Rank Spirit Grass, though umon, was likewise valuable.


    Beyond that, Lin Yuqing also presented numerous Demonic Beast materials.


    "Family Head, exchange all the spiritual medicine for contribution points!" Lin Yuqing, a body cultivator, was currently focused on nurturing Lin Shilei, and keeping all materials on him was useless, so he exchanged them all for contribution points.


    "Okay, Great Uncle, here you have twenty strands of Third Rank Spirit Grass, calcted at ten thousand Spirit Stones each, which is equivalent to 170,000 contribution points. The Demonic Beast materials are all fromte-stage Second Rank or above, amounting to 100,000 contribution points, making it a total of 270,000 contribution points!"


    As Lin Shiming announced this, the crowd felt somewhat dazed.


    It''s important to note that the Lin Family''s entire annual profit from all industries is only around thirty to forty thousand Spirit Stones. Now, the Great Elder Lin Yuqing alone had amassed nearly four to five hundred thousand Spirit Stones worth of ie from this expedition.


    And this was just Lin Yuqing alone. Altogether, the Lin Family, through this expedition to the Secret Realm, would certainly add a significant amount of Elixirs and Magic Artifacts, and the cultivators'' cultivation levels would surge once more due to the abundant supply of Elixirs.


    "Lin Yuzheng, a total of 210,000 contribution points!"


    "Lin Houyong, a total of 230,000 contribution points!"


    "Lin Houshou, a total of 380,000 contribution points!"


    As expected, following Lin Shiming''s sessive announcements, everyone started to be numb to the figures.


    Especially Lin Houshou, as a peak Second Rank Array Master, he found the environment inside to be extremely conducive to his skills.


    He amassed a total of 380,000 contribution points.


    Lin Shitao and Lin Houwei did not disappoint Lin Shiming either, bringing back a livingte-stage Second Rank Wood Demon, as well as fifty to sixty Mingxin Tea Trees. If these could be sessfully cultivated, the Lin Family, in addition to their Spirit Fish and Gold Iron industries, would gain another profitable industry with Mingxin Tea.


    With this, the family will surely develop even more rapidly.


    Lin Houwei and Lin Shitao each contributed 120,000 contribution points. Although it was less, it''s worth mentioning that half of the Mingxin Tea Trees were not exchanged with the family but were kept by them to nt in the Spiritual Medicine Garden, promising them a long-term Spirit Stone business.


    Lin Houxuan and Lin Shiyi brought out a living Spirit Crocodile, and revealed their ns to breed the Spirit Crocodile in Qinglian Lake.


    This caused Lin Shiming''s eyes to shine brightly; the Spirit Crocodile meat might not be as valuable as Spirit Fish, but it held its own unique appeal. Most importantly, the hides of these Spirit Crocodiles were excellent materials for crafting defensive Magic Artifacts.


    Being aquatic Demonic Beasts, they could be penned in Qinglian Lake without worries of them escaping.


    The only concern was to keep the Red Spirit Fish and Spirit Crocodiles separated, or else the fish might end up being eaten.


    "Family Head, there are also twelve strands of Seduction Demon Grass!" Lin Houxuan added.


    He then took out Seduction Demon Grass with three leaves, simr to Golden Thunder Bamboo, this type of Spirit Grass could grow continuously.


    One leaf for several years, two leaves for a decade, three leaves for a century!


    And these were all century-old three-leaf Seduction Grass.


    They were exactly suitable for Lin Shiming''s spirit-devouring ants, and the Spirit Stones were naturally calcted at the normal rate for Third Rank Spirit Stones.


    Lin Houwei and Lin Shiyun each received eighty thousand contribution points.


    And to think, the three of them still had Blood Crocodile Grass they hadn''t brought out, which, if they did, could be exchanged for tens of thousands more contribution points in the family n.


    After each family member had reported their gains, the deacon of the Treasure Pavilion was ecstatic, with these items, the second and third floors of the family''s Treasure Pavilion would no longer be ascking in treasures as before.


    All told, the family n had gained nearly three million Spirit Stones worth of terrifying spiritual materials.


    This could match the Lin Family''s earnings for nearly a century.


    Every cultivator made a fortune too.


    And this was just from a rtively small Yellow Grade Secret Realm; if it were to be reced with a Profound Grade Secret Realm from the Qingxuan Sect, the gains would be even more substantial.


    At that time, they would probably be calcted based on Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones.


    It is said that the smallest Yellow Grade Secret Realm of the Qingxuan Sect is counted as a ten-day exploration.


    And there are a total of four such secret realms.


    One can imagine just how vast the resources controlled by the Qingxuan Sect are.


    "Alright, in addition, I would also like to announce that the family n has acquired a Profound Rank, Inferior Grade thunder-attribute cultivation technique and another Profound Rank, Inferior Grade Body Refining Technique, the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique.


    These can be exchanged for cultivation with ten thousand contribution points each!" Lin Shiming announced, causing the Lin Family members to rejoice once again.


    Before this, the Lin Family only had one fire-attribute cultivation technique, the Fire-returning True Scripture, which was a Profound Rank, Inferior Grade technique; now they had obtained two more, one being a body refinement technique and the other a thunder-attribute cultivation technique.


    Without any hesitation, Lin Shiyi excitedly exchanged for it, as his technique was a Yellow Grade, Superior Grade, and now having a Profound Rank, Inferior Grade technique, it was as good as a Foundation Establishment Pill for him.


    And it could be read for just ten thousand contribution points!


    Lin Yuqing did not exchange for the body refining technique but instead exchanged for the thunder-attribute technique on behalf of his grandson.


    "Additionally, the family n also has two Foundation Establishment Pills avable for exchange, fifty thousand contribution points each!" Lin Shiming once again brought out the Foundation Establishment Pills.


    After this harvest, he needed to go into seclusion, and now with the contribution points, everyone was ready to exchange, each filled with boundless ardor.


    The two who made the exchange were Lin Houxuan and Lin Houwei¡ªwho were both over fifty. If they couldn''t get the Foundation Establishment Pills now, they wouldn''t have any chance after turning sixty.


    Lin Shitao and Lin Shiyi were still young, so they didn''tpete for them.


    After the exchange wasplete, members of the Lin Family n bid their farewells one after another. With these high-ranking family members having been out, many family affairs had piled up, especially for Lin Houxuan in alchemy and Lin Houshou''s Formation Hall.


    Lin Shiming also had a talk with Lin Houxuan, requesting thetter''s help in refining Seduction Demon Pills.


    The spirit-devouring ants had been confined within the Jade Box for almost half a year by now.


    Their ferocity had been worn down considerably, and once the Seduction Demon Pills were refined, they could be used at any time to breed and cultivate.


    Having finished these tasks, Lin Shiming took the King Mingxin Tea Tree and its main body towards his cave dwelling nearby to begin transnting the Mingxin Tea Tree!

 Chapter 150: 150

    Lin Shiming first found a spot not far from the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree and nted the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    The Mingxin Tea Tree, after all, is a shrub and looks huge on a tea ntation, butpared to the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, it appeared somewhat short and stout.


    Having nted the Mingxin Tea Tree, Lin Shiming continued to pour Nurturing Spirit Liquid on it, as well as spread some Spirit Soil.


    This tree was a second-rank Supreme Grade Spiritual Tea Tree; not only were the effects of its tea leaves excellent, but it was also the main body of a wood demon, extremely capable of growth.


    Moreover, he was also looking forward to using the wood demon''s Mu Xin to cultivate the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique to great sess.


    Having nted the wood demon''s main body, Lin Shiming then took out the wood demon''s Spiritual Body, which was that tree person. At that time, the tree person''s face drooped, and its roots made it seem like a hundred-year-old man.


    However, upon seeing its main body, the Mingxin Tea Tree, the tree person''s eyes lit up with excitement, struggling incessantly to approach it.


    Yet, Lin Shiming caught it with one grab, and the wood demon could only struggle continuously.


    "Submit to me!" Lin Shiming directly applied pressure on the wood demon using his Divine Sense''s fluctuations.


    It was recorded in the basic manual of the Spirit Beast Sect that some Spirit Contracts were also effective on wood demons, which was why the Spirit Beast Sect was able to cultivate wood demons within the sect.


    Having previous experience with nting spirits, he was more aware of the wood demons'' weaknesses.


    The wood demon was still struggling; being a wild wood demon, it naturally wouldn''t submit.


    Lin Shiming''s attempt to apply a Spirit Contract was directly scattered by the wood demon''s resistance.


    Lin Shiming was not angered, instead, he restrained the wood demon and used a Formation to separate it from its main body.


    It could only look at its main body eagerly but couldn''t return to it.


    After doing all this, Lin Shiming started to practice the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique right there.


    The Demon Sect of Chu Country and the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom were still waging wars, and although Qingxuan Sect promised five years, the promise was based on the premise that Three Sects could easily fend off their enemies. If the Three Sects showed even a slight sign of weakness, they would definitely force those families to the forefront.


    They would definitely worry about those families turning against them at thest minute.


    Therefore, Lin Shiming needed to improve his strength as quickly as possible. His cultivation of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra had slowed down after reaching the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    The family could not provide him with Essence Pills to their full capacity, and he himself did not have any third-rank Spiritual Honey.


    In this case, Body Refining Techniques became the best way for him to enhance his strength in a short period of time.


    Body Refining Techniques are different from Qi Cultivation Techniques. Body Refining Techniques pay more attention to the physical body, with the corresponding breathing techniques aimed at the cellr level, further assisted by body refining martial skills¡ª internal refinement and external tempering build an unmatched Dao body.


    Of course, this also requires a considerable amount of body refining Spiritual Liquids or Body Refinement Spirit Fruits.


    As for Spiritual Liquids, it''s not too bad, the family didn''t have third-rank body refining Spiritual Liquids, but they had plenty of second ranks. Before this, Lin Shiming also exchanged quite a few.


    In the following days, Lin Shiming''s life fell into tranquility. During the day, he practiced the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique to polish his physique. After polishing, he practiced the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    During this period, he also nurtured Spirit nts, and every three days, he would apply a Spirit Contract to the wood demon.


    Constantly wearing down the wood demon''s spirit; the effect gradually got better.


    ...


    Three months passed, and Lin Shiming opened his eyes, two beams of sharp light shooting forth. At that moment, he seemed like a mountain ape channeling purple Qi.


    His originally slim physique had also started to be more robust.


    "Finally, I have mastered the first level. From now on, I just need to temper my body!" Lin Shiming exhaled turbid breath. Having entered the door of the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique signified that he had be a Body Refining Cultivator.


    However, at the moment, his body''s condition only allowed him to physicallypete with Demonic Beasts of the early stage second rank.


    Lin Shiming got up and once again approached the wood demon.


    At this moment, the wood demon''s eyes were fixed on its main body, but its entire body was like dried softwood, unable to even stand upright.


    This was due to the wood demon being away from its main body for a long time,cking the nourishment of essence from its main body.


    Lin Shiming approached it, and it no longer showed a fierce face to him.


    Instead, it already started to be numb.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming once again traced the Spirit Contract, injecting it into the Demonic Wood''s body.


    The Spirit Contract entered extremely smoothly, without any resistance or obstruction.


    The next instant, a Spirit Contract was formed, and a strange connection appeared in Lin Shiming''s heart.


    "It''s done!" Lin Shiming was also extremely excited.


    With the Demonic Wood contracted, he could find a way to enhance it, to elevate it to a Third Rank Spirit Wood; not to mention the effects of Third Rank Mingxin Tea, even if he could extract just half of the Heavenly Wood Spirit, it would greatly improve his Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique.


    This would allow his True Yuan storage to increase several times over.


    It should be noted that his strength at the early stage of Foundation Establishment owes a lot to his magic artifacts; likewise, his vast storage of True Yuan, several times that of ordinary cultivators,bined with his superior grade Profound Rank cultivation technique, makes his True Yuan extremely solid.


    This is why wielding arge number of magic artifacts is somewhat effortless for him.


    Seeing that the Spirit Contract was sessful, Lin Shiming also deactivated the formation, allowing the Demonic Wood to enter its true form.


    As soon as the formation was opened, the Demonic Wood used an Earth Escape Skill and arrived at the base of the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    That old face once again appeared on the tea tree, it seemed to want to continue ring fiercely at Lin Shiming, as if to tell him that even if a Spirit Contract was signed, it would not obey Lin Shiming''smands.


    Lin Shiming was unconcerned about the Demonic Wood''s expression and chuckled lightly.


    This Demonic Wood was born in the little secret realm, and its true Spirit Intelligence was actually no different from a Demonic Beast.


    Such a reaction was normal.


    But with the Spirit Contract in ce and his cultivation level far surpassing that of the Demonic Wood, he did not need to worry about it turning on him.


    Lin Shiming had nned to continue practicing the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique when a Transmission Talisman flew in¡ªit was a Sound Transmission Talisman.


    The transmission was from Lin Shitao, but the content made him overjoyed.


    "The Seduction Demon Pill isplete!"


    He deactivated the formation and saw Lin Shitao standing outside in a green dress.


    "Big Brother Seven!" Lin Shitao''s fair face blushed slightly as she greeted him with a gentle smile.


    She stretched out her delicate hand and presented a small Jade Bottle before Lin Shiming''s eyes.


    "This is the Seduction Demon Pill refined by Uncle Fifteen!"


    "Shitao, thank you for bringing it over," Lin Shiming said, taking the Jade Bottle with gratitude.


    "Please also convey my thanks to Uncle Fifteen for me!" Lin Shiming continued, knowing that refining Elixirs with the Formation Artifact Manual puts a great strain on the body, especially since Lin Houxuan is currently cultivating his Spiritual Energy and preparing for his Foundation Establishment breakthrough.


    After speaking, Lin Shiming turned and returned to his cave dwelling.


    With the Seduction Demon Pill in hand, it meant that his Spirit Ants finally had a use; even the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect had scrambled for such Spirit Ants at the time.


    One could imagine the value of the Spirit Ants.


    For Lin Shiming, he did not have the ability as with the true form of the Demonic Wood to wear down the Spirit Ants before creating a Spirit Contract.


    But with the Seduction Demon Pill, he could still gain the offspring of the Spirit Ants.


    Moreover, controlling such Spirit Ants from a young age to adulthood would be perfect; Demonic Beasts raised from small tend to have no issues with turning on their master, far better than his current situation with the Demonic Wood.


    What he didn''t know was that Lin Shitao, watching his figure from behind, pursed her lips, clenched her fists then released them, holding back the words she wanted to say in her heart, ultimately choosing not to speak.


    It was early Springtime, and the peach blossoms on Fangmu Mountain were in bloom once more!

 Chapter 151 The Spirit Ant Lays Eggs

    Inside the cave mansion by Qinglian Pool, Lin Shiming took out the jade box containing the Spirit-Devouring Ants.


    Through the surface of the jade box, it could be easily seen that the dozens of ants inside were all listless.


    Spirit-Devouring Ants could devour any form of spiritual energy, swallow spirit weapons and spirit formations with ease, but Spirit Jade was their greatest weakness.


    At this moment, the ferocity of these ants had been mostly ground away.


    Lin Shiming took out a Seduction Demon Pill and quickly ced it into the jade box.


    The ants instantly reacted as if stimted, screeching frantically before crawling towards the Seduction Demon Pill and slowly beginning to gnaw at it.


    The other ants quickly swarmed over as well, and to Lin Shiming''s shock, they began to devour each other in a struggle for the pill.


    Thergest one was particrly vicious, its sharp teeth killing three or four other ants in the blink of an eye before continuing to nibble at the Seduction Demon Pill.


    Half a quarter of an hourter, only four extremely agitated Spirit-Devouring Ants remained in the jade box, as if the box could no longer contain them, they flew around inside, biting at everything.


    They even started biting the jade box, but after doing so, that particr ant would violently spit it out and continue to move crazily within the box.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming felt bewildered and even doubted if the Seduction Demon Pill had any effect on these ants.


    But then he remembered that both the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis had gone through a mad frenzy of devouring spiritual flesh and Beast Nurturing Pills during their evolution.


    So, he also took out some Spirit Beast meat, still in Spirit Water, and threw in some Beast Nurturing Pills into the jade box.


    Sure enough, the four Spirit-Devouring Ants began to frenziedly consume various spiritual objects and their energy.


    Lin Shiming watched with eyes wide and tongue-tied, unable toprehend how such small ants could devour so many spiritual objects.


    After another hour had passed, the Spirit-Devouring Ants finally began to calm down, ceased their biting, and started to pair up tranquilly.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming finally let go of his worries.


    The Seduction Demon Pill was effective.


    After dealing with the Spirit-Devouring Ants, Lin Shiming returned to his meditation cushion and once again began to meditate.


    After oneplete cycle of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, he felt his spirit highly focused once again, his True Yuan abundant, and his body bursting with vitality.


    He then took out another jade slip, the Split Spirit Decision.


    He hadn''t taken either the Split Spirit Decision or the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique to his family for the members to practice, firstly because there weren''t suitable people in the family yet, and secondly because both secret techniques were vitally important.


    The former could be used by cultivators in the Qi Refinement Realm, its significance was not less than that of the Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree, and thetter, the Split Spirit Decision, could greatly enhance Divine Sense, something that the cultivators of Qingxuan Sect would covet.


    One cultivator with an outstanding Divine Sense might not seem exceptional, but if every member of a family had superior Divine Sense, it would definitely mean that the family possessed an extraordinary treasure.


    If word of such a treasure leaked out to a typical Foundation Establishment family, they might consider their rtionship with the Sect, but if a Purple Mansion Loose Cultivator without ties learned of the treasure, they would have longe to the Lin Family to "borrow" it.


    Lin Shiming cast aside these other cluttering thoughts and focused intently on studying the Split Spirit Decision.


    In this moment, the meditation cushion proved to be of great benefit, helping him to concentrate more intensely and maintain rity of mind.


    The Cultivation Technique of the Split Spirit Decision was divided into two parts: condensing the Split Spirit de and self-amputating one''s Divine Sense.


    Of course, the amputation of Divine Sense would only cause cuts, notpletely sever it, and then utilize the unique properties of the Split Spirit Decision to continually practice and restore the Divine Sense.


    All three steps were indispensable, which was the key to the exceptional power of the Split Spirit Decision.


    Of course, practicing the Split Spirit Decision would be excruciatingly painful and would also result in the short-term side effects of being unable to form a Spirit Contract and engage inbat.


    That''s why he waited until after securing control over the Wood Demon before starting the training of the Split Spirit Decision.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath and then, with an extremely focused spirit, began to condense the Split Spirit de.


    Once the Split Spirit de was condensed, he would possess an attack using Divine Sense, although its attack power would be inferior to the Split Spirit Drum. The Split Spirit de could only be used against those with a Cultivation Level equal to or even lower than his own, not against those whose Divine Sense was far superior to his.


    It could even backfire, and when that happens, it could not only fail to affect enemy cultivators but cause a great disturbance to one''s own mind.


    The consequences would be unthinkable.


    The consolidation of the Split Spirit de was no simple task either, involving extremelyplex Spirit Decisions; fortunately, he had the system prompts to remind him at critical moments.


    Thus, in less than seven days, he managed to consolidate the Split Spirit de.


    At this moment, in his mind, a small de of white light appeared, which was none other than the Split Spirit de.


    Lin Shiming also heaved a sigh of relief and revealed a satisfied smile.


    With the sess of the Split Spirit de, he was not far from training his Divine Sense.


    Lin Shiming did not continue but stood up to check on the Swallowing Spirit Ants in the Jade Box.


    He saw that the previous four Swallowing Spirit Ants had be two, and arge number of spirit eggs began to appear inside the Jade Box.


    At a nce, there were no fewer than three hundred.


    And the Swallowing Spirit Ants were stillying eggs.


    This made Lin Shiming extremely satisfied once again.


    With these spirit eggs, once hatched into Swallowing Spirit Ants, no Spirit Formation would be able to stop him. For instance, the Formation at the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion previously, he wouldn''t need to gather five Foundation Establishment cultivators. Instead, he could use the Swallowing Spirit Ants to enter and take the treasures.


    As Lin Shiming was excited, he also took out a substantial amount of spirit beast meat and Spirit Water Beast Nurturing Pills, and ced them into the Jade Box, ensuring that the queen had enough Spiritual Power toy as many eggs as possible.


    After theying of eggs, Lin Shiming once again tended to various Spirit nts, cultivating them.


    After cultivation, he began practicing the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique. Later on, he even started fighting hand-to-hand with the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    His days became extremely full, and as for the family affairs, he had entrusted them all to the various branches.


    ...


    Three years quietly passed!


    By the Qinglian Pool, Qinglian Lake had been divided into twokes: the leftke was used for cultivating Green Lotus and Red Spirit Fish, and the rightke for breeding Spirit Crocodiles.


    At this moment, numerous cultivators were catching Spirit Fish.


    However, at the next moment, a thunderous roar was heard, and far away on the mountain, two figures, one red and one green, were constantly wrestling with each other.


    Each punch they exchanged created a tremendous momentum.


    And the shadow of their punches was quite simr too.


    Only the red figure was clearly in the upper hand.


    "The Family Head''s Body Refinement technique is bing more inscrutable!"


    As for the practice of the Body Refinement technique, Lin Shiming didn''t hide it from the family''s cultivators; indeed, he couldn''t.


    As he and the Red-haired Demon Monkey sparred, the whole Fangmu Mountain could hear the momentum.


    On the mountain, as the Red-haired Demon Monkey leapt up and punched, Lin Shiming was finally smashed into the mountain.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey was extremely excited and even lifted the Profound Spirit Mountain, howling non-stop.


    Lin Shiming climbed out of the mountain as well. Today, at thirty-four, his cultivation level was still at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, but his Body Refinement realm was terrifyingly at the seventhyer. Even now, he was barely able to fight with the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    However, it was clear he was mostly on the receiving end of the beatings, but reaching the sixthyer of Body Refinement in three years also showed how terrifying his cultivation speed was. Of course, the reason he could spar was that his Divine Sense had also broken through to the Foundation Establishment''s middle stage.


    His ability to predict each move was far superior to that of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and he had also convinced the Red-haired Demon Monkey to control its strength, which allowed him to barely spar.

 Chapter 152 Bad News from the Border

    At the Qinglian Pond Cave Mansion in Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming had just returned when he took out arge wooden barrel, which was full of red medicinal liquid.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey followed him back, also howling, tugging at the corner of Lin Shiming''s clothes.


    Lin Shiming rubbed the head of the Red-haired Demon Monkey and then took out an evenrger model of a wooden barrel. He filled this barrel with the same medicinal liquid to the brim.


    This concoction in the barrel was a mixture using Blood Crocodile Flowers, and Lin Shiyi had sold some to the family. Lin Shiming therefore purchased some.


    Afterpleting his Body Refinement practice, he would soak in this medicinal bath, along with practicing breathing techniques, which would greatly increase his cultivation speed.


    As for the Red-haired Demon Monkey, after witnessing Lin Shiming''s bath on one asion, it howled and jumped into the barrel. Lin Shiming had no choice but to prepare another barrel of medicine for the monkey.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey was addicted to soaking as soon as it tried, and so it became a routine for both to soak in their separate barrels.


    Lin Shiming looked at the Red-haired Demon Monkey, quite content as ity in the medicinal barrel, with only its red head and its fiercely burning tail sticking out.


    At this moment, the tail was still aze, but the Red-haired Demon Monkey had learned to control the size of the mes, ensuring they did not burn the medicinal liquid away.


    Lin Shiming closed his eyes and began to cultivate his breathing techniques.


    Three hourster, the color of the liquid in the barrel slowly faded, and its medicinal properties werepletely absorbed.


    Lin Shiming changed into a fresh robe and went to the insect room, specially prepared for the Spirit-Absorbing Ants.


    Inside the insect room were rows of eggs, amounting to over a thousand.


    These eggs were white with a tinge of yellow, a clear sign they had been incubating for a long time and were about to hatch.


    Lin Shiming immediately stepped forward, squeezing a few drops of essence blood from his fingertip, sprinkling them evenly over the eggs. Then, he cast the Spirit Contract once again.


    The birth of the eggs was something he could not predict, and he could only establish the Spirit Contract in advance. Otherwise, by the time the Spirit-Absorbing Ants appeared and if he was not there, the whole cave mansion might be devoured.


    He could not afford to encase the whole chamber withrge amounts of Spirit Jade either.


    After casting the Spirit Contract, Lin Shiming left the chamber and returned to his cultivation room. He sat on a cushion, beginning to meditate and practice the Purple Wood Heart Sutra to quietly recover from the loss of essence blood.


    Three years of secluded training had made him seem moreposed. In terms of cultivation level, he had unnoticeably made great progress from the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    To speak of it, because of his Foundation Establishment Stage cultivation level, he had no bottleneck in practicing Body Refining Techniques. Three years was all it took for him to reach a stateparable to thete stages of Qi Cultivation, and in turn, the Body Refinement fed back into his Qi Cultivation level.


    Beyond that, his greatest achievement was the minor aplishment of the Split Spirit Decision. It had allowed his Divine Sense to advance from being superior to average early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators to now vastly surpassing mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, and even being a match forte-stage cultivators.


    Now, even when striking the Shocking God Drum, he was utterly unpressured.


    Of course, the credit did not go solely to the Split Spirit Decision, but also to the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    Since the wood spirit entered its body, each month it produced a cluster of tender Spiritual Tea leaves. Due to the nourishment from the wood spirit, the effects were significantly stronger than ordinary second-rank supreme grade Spiritual Tea.


    This tea was surprisingly beneficial to cultivators'' Divine Sense recovery, allowing for quicker replenishment and progress in his Divine Sense after each split.


    However, this also harmed the wood spirit''s vital essence, but fortunately, his Purple Wood Heart Sutra couldpensate for it.


    This made Lin Shiming value the wood spirit even more; a cluster of Spiritual Tea once a month felt rather insufficient.


    On the contrary, over these three years, he hadn''t spent much time on refining tools.


    After three cycles of breathing, Lin Shiming opened his eyes and walked toward the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree and Minor Divine Ability Tree outside the cave mansion.


    These two showed little change, and the Mingxin Tea Tree was also unchanged; however, the Golden Thunder Bamboo''s Spirit Root had sprouted two shoot tips, one of which was a full three inches long, while the other had just poked out a tip.


    Both shoots were still entirely covered with husks, which, like the main body of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, were of a golden thunder color.


    Moreover, lightning continuously coursed over the husks, and should it rain, lightning would fall from the sky and strike down upon the two golden shoots.


    Not far from the golden shoots, a Wood Demon showed its ancient face, and its cloudy eyes stared unwaveringly at the Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    Lin Shiming, too, was extremely surprised by this and tried to inquire using his Divine Sense, but the Wood Demon''s Spirit Intelligence was stillcking and unable to provide sufficient feedback.


    Lin Shiming could only give up and hoped that the Wood Demon might undergo some new changes.


    After tending to all the Spirit nts one by one, another three days passed.


    At that time, a Spirit Talisman flew in from outside.


    Lin Shiming captured the Spirit Light, and the next moment, his brows furrowed involuntarily.


    Indeed, it had finallye!


    ¡­


    In the Fangmu Mountain Council Hall, at this moment, the Lin Family''s elders were gathered.


    Lin Xianzhi had also already taken his seat at the high table.


    To the right of the high table sat Xie An from the Qingxuan Sect.


    At this moment, everyone''s expressions were somber; even Xie An''s face did not look good.


    "Shiming has arrived."


    "Shiming pays his respects to Seventh Great-Uncle and greets Senior Brother Xie!" Lin Shiming also greeted the two men.


    "Shiming, this time, Yan Country has joined Chu Country and Zhao Kingdom in the crusade, and the front line is retreating steadily. All of Zhao Kingdom''s families are being forcibly summoned to battle. My task is to notify all the major Foundation Establishment families in Yunzhou," Xie An said solemnly.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming could only feel a great headache. The Demon Sect of Chu Country was already causing the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom enormous trouble, and with Yan Country getting involved, especially the Corpse Refining Sect, which was even more powerful than the Spirit Beast Sect!


    "Each Foundation Establishment family must dispatch at least seventy percent of their Foundation Establishment cultivators and another fifty percent of theirte-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators.


    Of course, if the Lin Family needs to guard its sect gates with its Foundation Establishment cultivators, then eighty percent of thete-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators and fifty percent of the Foundation Establishment cultivators will suffice," Xie An stated, offering some flexibility, but Lin Shiming could see from Xie An''s eyes an unmistakable determination.


    Granting the Lin Family a choice already spoke to the gravity of the situation.


    "All right, our Lin Family will choose the former option," Lin Shiming nodded. Since there was no avoiding it, they had to join the great battle.


    The Three Great Sects would not allow anyone to retain ample strength behind the scenes within their domains.


    Xie An, seeing Lin Shiming had made a decision, promptly took his leave, not even sipping a drop of Mingxin Tea. Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi escorted him away.


    Clearly, he was on his way to notify other families in Yunzhou.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi then returned to the Fangmu Mountain Council Hall once more.


    All faces were grave; following the beast tide, the Foundation Establishment cultivators of Yunzhou had five years to catch their breath. A yearter, the cultivators might have had some preparation, but now they faced two Immortal Cultivation nations, Chu and Yan Countries, one of Demon Cultivators and heretics, the other of Corpse Cultivators.


    Zhao Kingdom''s chance to hold them off was extremely slim unless the neighboring countries of the Righteous Alliance came to Zhao Kingdom''s aid.

 Chapter 153: Chapter 153 Family Arrangements

    The entire council hall was filled with faces of worry and distress.


    In the end, it was Lin Xianzhi who broke the silence:


    "My fellow family members, the more critical the moment, the less we can afford to panic. Even if the sky were to fall, there would be someone tall enough to uphold it!"


    "Our Lin Family has weathered storms for three to four hundred years, relying not on powerful strength, but on our unity as a family, passing down our will through generations!"


    As soon as Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, his authoritative eyes swept over everyone present.


    The other Family Elders and cultivators quieted down.


    Then, Lin Xianzhi turned to Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, you make the arrangements. ording to some inside information, the Spirit Talisman Sect''s territory in Youzhou has already been conquered. In addition to that, half of the Spirit Beast Sect''s territory in Heavenly River State has also fallen. The situation indeed looks grim!"


    "Yes, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming nodded, feeling a tremendous pressure in his mind.


    In a war between three kingdoms, even Golden Core cultivators were involved; their Foundation Establishment family was like a small boat on a vast sea, liable to be capsized by the great tides at any moment.


    "First, let''s decide on who will go to battle. Since Shijie has not yet made a public appearance, we have four people at the Foundation Establishment level. Three will go to battle: myself, my father, and Seventh Great-Uncle. Big brother, you will rece the Fifth Uncle and be the publicly known guardian of our family!"


    "Secondly, as for thete-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators in the family, we will mainly select from the members of the Demon Hunting Team. Uncle, you will screen the candidates for this task. The Alchemy Hall and Artifact Refining Hall will go all out to concoct elixirs. Shitao, Fifth Grandpa, you two will take charge of this.


    We can use all the Spiritual Medicines obtained in the Yellow Grade Secret Realm to craft Healing Pills and Restoration Elixirs!"


    "Yes!" Lin Houyong, Lin Shitao, and Lin Yutie responded in unison.


    "Fifth Grandpa, as the head of the family''smerce division, you should gradually withdraw our trading teams from their ventures and cut down on the personnel, focusing mainly on operating in the Xing County Square Market and Lingnan County Square Market. The family''s ascension conferences, originally held once every three years, should now take ce annually.


    It''s not that the familycks spiritual materials, but rather, we are short of Spirit Root Cultivators! If necessary, we must even participate in the ascension conferences of other families outside of Lingnan County and Xing County, especially those belonging to Qi Cultivation families!"


    As Lin Shiming said this, Lin Yuzheng also nodded fiercely.


    After the war, the family would undoubtedly be short of cultivators, but an ascension conference gathers children around the age of ten. If nurtured for a decade or so in the mountains, they will be one of the Lin Family''s own.


    Keep in mind that those Qi Cultivation families also have to send people to the front lines.


    "Additionally, Grandpa, add three thousand contribution points for all personnel recruited into this battle, regardless of their cultivation level," Lin Shiming continued.


    "Yes, Family Head!"


    "Everyone, although currently onlyte-stage Qi Cultivators are joining the battle, the situation could worsen to the point where mid-stage Qi Cultivators might also need to fight on the front lines. Hence, in theing days, let no one bex!" Lin Shiming spoke again, concluding the arrangements.


    The leaders of the various halls and the Elders each began to make their own arrangements, whereas Lin Shiming summoned Lin Shijie.


    This elder brother of his was somewhat dazed at the moment.


    Although he was a Foundation Establishment cultivator hidden by the family, he did not wish to stay and guard the family, nor did he understand why he was being sent to Lingnan County.


    "Big brother, this tribtion could mean that my father, Seventh Great-Uncle, and I might not return. Therefore, you must take up the mantle. You are not only the family''s hidden Foundation Establishment cultivator, but also a double Spirit Root, with the potential for Purple Mansion and Golden Core in the future," Lin Shiming said earnestly.


    "Of course, the most important reason for you to go to Lingnan County is that you will need to arrange for contacts with the Tian Qian Family at a moment''s notice. Both of their ancient ancestors are sages, and they would definitely be willing to join us in exploring the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion and face this crisis together!"


    "Secondly, if the Zhao Kingdom falls, you will be responsible for making contact with the Corpse Refining Sect," Lin Shiming dered, causing Lin Shijie''s expression to change drastically.


    He had not expected that Lin Shiming would ask him to make contact with the Corpse Refining Sect at this crucial moment.


    "Big brother, our fourth brother is not dead, he has joined the Corpse Refining Sect. With the Li Family in the Chu Country''s demonic sect, there is absolutely no ce for our Lin Family to survive. Only the Corpse Refining Sect is an option!"


    "In my cave mansion, there is a Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree, a Minor Divine Ability tree, and a stalk of Golden Thunder Bamboo; they can all be used as bargaining chips in a critical moment!"


    Lin Shiming finished speaking, and Lin Shijie''s astonishment was clearly beyond words.


    Not to mention the news that Lin Shiming was still alive, just those treasures alone were enough to shock.


    After Lin Shijie left, Lin Shiming called for Lin Houyong.


    Facing this fifth uncle, he entrusted a great deal of matters to him as well.


    The first was about Lin Shitao and Lin Shilei.


    Both were among the most promising of the Lin Family''s younger generation, one an intermediate-grade second-rank peak alchemist with dual Spirit Roots, and the other a cultivator with unique Spirit Roots attuned to the attribute of thunder.


    Even if all the other members of the younger generation with the surname Shi were to perish, thetter was to protect these two at all costs.


    They were the hope of the Lin Family.


    The second matter was to serve as the protector for Lin Houxuan, who, with ess to a Foundation Establishment Pill, refined his spiritual energy for three years and went into seclusion three months ago to prepare for his Foundation Establishment breakthrough.


    At the same time, he was to take Lei Xuan with him.


    In this forting war, since Lei Xuan had married into the family, he was naturally included.


    Even though he had already held a wedding ceremony with Lin Shiqi and entered the Family Jade Book, he would not let down his guard against those he needed to be wary of.


    After Lin Houyong left, Lin Shiming alsopletely set his mind at ease, then entered the rear courtyard''s side room where Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan were already inside.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father, all family matters have been arranged properly!" Lin Shiming spoke respectfully.


    "Mm-hmm!" Lin Xianzhi nodded in satisfaction and made some additions to Lin Shiming''s arrangements, while Lin Houyuan quietly listened by the side.


    In the end, Lin Xianzhi sighed and said:


    "Shiming, for this great war involving three countries, I initially wanted Lin Houyong and your father to apany me!"


    "But as you are a registered disciple of the Sect and have performed outstandingly in Qingyun City, you were named by Zi Xuan Hermit to participate!"


    Lin Xianzhi didn''t say this at first; he had his own considerations, but he didn''t expect that Lin Shiming''s first words would be about including himself in the mission.


    "Remember to adapt to changes on the fly, and prioritize your own safety above all. The family''s greatest hope lies with you!" Lin Xianzhi said again, his tone filled with profound earnestness, and then he took out four Xue Sha Thunder orbs and ced them in Lin Shiming''s hands.


    Lin Shiming was also startled upon seeing the Xue Sha Thunder, his heart full of gratitude.


    But he looked towards Lin Houyuan at his side, intending to share two orbs with his father.


    "Shiming, keep them. The elder also gave me two!" Lin Houyuan spoke up as well.


    "Alright then!" Lin Shiming epted them.


    "Shiming, Houyong, you both go get ready. We leave in three days!" Lin Xianzhi spoke up again.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Houyong each took their leave, returning to their respective cave mansions.


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate; upon returning to his cave mansion, he first put away all the Spirit Ant eggs, then he collected the sleeping Golden Winged Mantis and Red-haired Demon Monkey as well.


    The strength of these two was no less formidable than his own current power.

 Chapter 154 When the Great Dao is accomplished, the lesser paths may be fulfilled.

    Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming had already tidied up everything in the cave mansion, all magic artifacts were ready, and he had checked every Spirit Talisman and array g.


    He had also spent some time taking care of the Spirit nts once more before suddenly feeling the urge to clear his mind and consider taking a walk on the mountain.


    Since bing a member of the Lin Family and a Foundation Establishment cultivator, he hadn''t really taken the time to observe Fangmu Mountain. But at that moment, he felt an unexpected desire to take another look.


    He had grown up on Fangmu Mountain since he was a child, and for over thirty years, he had witnessed its transformation from a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein to a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein.


    He first looked at Qinglian Pool and Qinglian Lake, where the lotus leaves of the pool were more numerous andrger, with more plentiful lotus seeds, including many Third Rank lotus seeds.


    These lotus seeds were the best for neutralizing poisons.


    Ever since his seventh granduncle''s recovery, he had quite a few in his Storage Bag.


    In Qinglian Lake, there were Spirit Fish constantly leaping on one side, while on the other, a Spirit Crocodile was casually showing its ck head.


    Nearby was a pavilion, which no longer had a chessboard on it, nor could one see his seventh granduncle Lin Xianzhi.


    Come to think of it, this pavilion did not have a name yet.


    "Why not call it ''Yongzhi Pavilion''?" Lin Shiming thought, and then chuckled softly; his seventh granduncle''s personality might actually prefer the pavilion to remain nameless!


    He then walked down the mountain.


    Quite unintentionally, he found himself in Peach Blossom Forest.


    It was alreadyte spring, and the flowers on the Spirit Peach Trees were exceptionally radiant. Countless petals were dancing in the sky, and Spirit-Seeking Bees buzzed up and down, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene.


    In the depths of the forest, ady in a green dress stood under the tallest peach tree, gently pouring Nurturing Spirit Liquid.


    The peach blossoms fell onto her ck hair and green dress, carpeting the ground around her.


    Lin Shiming recognized her at a nce, it was Lin Shitao.


    Back then, it was he who brought Lin Shitao back from the Spirit Peach Tree in Peach Blossom Town. It was also that day in Peach Blossom Forest when he helped her be an Alchemist.


    Now it seemed Lin Shitao had not forgotten to take care of these Spirit Peach Trees.


    Lin Shiming approached and she gradually turned around. Upon seeing Lin Shiming, her face brightened with joy, but then it was tinged with worry, possibly due to the summons from Qingxuan Sect.


    "Seventh brother!"


    "Shitao, you''re still caring for these Spirit Peach Trees? This might affect your cultivation," Lin Shiming said.


    "Thank you for the reminder, seventh brother. Shitao will be careful," Lin Shitao quickly replied.


    After that, neither of them could find more to say.


    Neither were good with words, especially now when only the two of them were left, the atmosphere turned somewhat awkward.


    "Shitao, keep up with your cultivation. Your talent is among the top three in the family!" Lin Shiming tried to start a new topic.


    Lin Shitao''s face flushed as she nodded, then she suddenly spoke up.


    "Seventh brother, I learned a piece called Peach Blossom Melody from third sister. If you have time, could you listen to it?"


    "Oh, sure!" Lin Shiming nodded and then took a seat on a stone bench.


    Lin Shitao took out a guzheng and then fixed her gaze on the strings, beginning to slowly pluck them.


    The sound of the strings was delightful and ear-pleasing. Although Lin Shiming was not versed in music or understood the five tones, he inexplicably found the Peach Blossom Melody to be pleasant, very appealing to the ear, and surprisingly well-matched with the sea of blossoms around them.


    As the melodious music yed, it seemed as though the peach blossoms were dancing as well, and with the breeze, petals cascaded down one by one.


    And there, under the shower of blossoms, Lin Shitao appeared like an immortal aloof from the world among the flowers.


    "In Peach Blossom Dock there lies a Peach Blossom Hermitage, within which dwells a Peach Blossom Immortal!"


    Or perhaps, in the north there is a beauty, who lives isted from the world; one nce would overthrow a city, a second nce would overthrow a nation!


    Lin Shiming was immersed in the moment, and by the time he returned to his senses, the sun had set, and the sounds of insects filled the air.


    "Seventh brother¡­" Lin Shitao lifted her head, her eyes glowing with a mix of excitement and concern, as if she had made up her mind about something and was about to speak, but Lin Shiming interrupted her.


    ```


    "Shitao, Seventh Brother knows your heart, but now Seventh Brother seeks only the Immortal Path. Immortality represents the Great Dao; emotions are but the Lesser Dao. We are both cultivators striving for immortality and should prioritize the Immortal Path above all else!"


    Lin Shitao''s face suddenly turned bleak, her expression filled with disappointment.


    Before she could even speak, the oue was already clear.


    "Seventh Brother, what if you seed in your pursuit of the Great Dao?" Lin Shitao still asked unwillingly.


    "Then the Lesser Dao may be fulfilled!" Having said this, Lin Shiming left with a sweep of his sleeves, heading straight for the Qinglian Pond Cave Mansion.


    The feelings of the young girl, he had longprehended.


    But born in a world of immortal heroes, how could he not yearn for the Purple Mansion, for a Golden Core, for eternal life! He truly couldn''t be content without these pursuits.


    Even though he might have once longed for the affection between men and women, and perhaps had been deeply ensnared by it at one point, he knew all too well that time was of the essence. The lifespan limits of each realm were like adder ascending to the heavens.


    If one cannot set foot upon it, they would end up falling through the clouds with an unresolved heart.


    If one does not push forward with bloody determination, who can im that the path to immortality is not worth seeking?


    After Lin Shiming left, beside the Peach Blossom Forest, Lin Shiqi also emerged, looking at Lin Shitao who was still sitting there dazed, her heart filled with pity.


    Lin Shiming had brought Lin Shitao to Fangmu Mountain, and she had watched Lin Shitao grow up.


    "Shitao..."


    "Third Sister, I understand. Seventh Brother is devoted to cultivation. Then I shall assist Seventh Brother in fulfilling the Great Dao!"


    "I will wait for Seventh Brother''s sess in the Great Dao, then the Lesser Dao may be fulfilled."


    ...


    Three days passed, and above the Lin Family''s territory, another Spirit Boat appeared. On the Spirit Boat, which now carried over forty people, three were at the Foundation Establishment stage, namely Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming, and Lin Houyuan.


    The Qi Cultivators at the Ninth Level were Lin Yuqing, Lin Houyong, Lin Hou Shou, and Lin Houyu, among whom Lin Houyu was the sixth elder of the ''Hou'' generation and had newly reached the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level in the past three years.


    The rest, who were in thete stages of Qi Cultivation and familiar to Lin Shiming, included Lin Shiyi, Lin Shiyun, Lin Houyuan, Lei Xuan, and others.


    "Let''s go!" The Spirit Boat soared into the clouds, with Lin Xianzhi at the very front and Lin Shiming taking a position at the rear.


    With Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming at opposite ends, they kept a mutual watch over the group.


    This Spirit Boat was a Third Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifact and, upon taking flight, it transformed into a ray of golden light and shot through the sky.


    Behind them, Fangmu Mountain was enveloped by waves of spiritual fog under a burst of light, with the formations fully activated!


    ...


    In Zhao Kingdom, within the territory of the Spirit Beast Sect in Heavenly River State, Cloud Realm Mountain.


    A Spirit Boat slowly descended from the sky, and from the formation in front of the boat, a multitude of cultivators emerged, all dressed in the robes of the Spirit Beast Sect, with most wearing robes representing one spirit beast. The leading figure wore a robe representing two spirit beasts.


    "Who are the cultivators ahead?"


    "Could you kindly inform your peers that the Lin Family, a subordinate family of the Qingxuan Sect, has been ordered toe and provide defense!" Lin Shiming, in a blue robe, stepped out of the Spirit Boat and spoke loudly.


    As he spoke, a golden token shed out. On the front of the token were the characters for ''Qingxuan'', and on the back was the character for ''Lin''.


    This token now served as an identification artifact within Zhao Kingdom, specially crafted by a Fourth Rank Artifact Refiner, bound to the owner''s identity and requires the owner''s True Yuan to activate.


    Furthermore, the token was used to distinguish affiliation, with Qingxuan Sect disciples having ''Qingxuan'' on both sides, while family members had their surname on the reverse.


    This Spirit Boat,ing from afar from Fangmu Mountain, carried Lin Family cultivators who had traveled for one and a half months to reach Heavenly River City in Heavenly River State. They had then been ordered to defend an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine within Cloud Realm Mountain.


    "Oh, turns out to be Daoist Lin, a renowned name indeed. We will open the formation for you!" The cultivator in brocade robes within the formation replied with smiles and subsequently opened the formation.


    "I am Lin Gang, and perhaps a few hundred years ago, we were of the same n!" The middle-aged cultivator said with augh.


    The group from the Lin Family finally stepped out from the Spirit Boat, led by Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi at the forefront, as they entered Cloud Realm Mountain.


    ```

 Chapter 155: Chapter 155 Joint Defense

    Lin Gang was one of the threete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators of Yunjing Mountain and a direct disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect.


    Along the way, under Lin Gang''s leadership, there was none of the arrogance often disyed by sect disciples.


    On the contrary, Lin Gang was exceedingly polite to the members of the Lin Family.


    "Brother Lin, may I know where Brother Xu is located? Could you possibly introduce me so I may pay my respects?" Lin Xianzhi, as the one with the highest cultivation level within the Lin Family, was the one to speak.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming was following behind, listening attentively and humbly.


    The ''Brother Xu'' Lin Xianzhi referred to was Xu Dai, the master of Yunjing Mountain. Xu Dai, as ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, was the most powerful person on Yunjing Mountain, in charge of all matters concerning the guarding of the Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone veins.


    However, by rights, his cultivation level was not sufficient to hold the position of deacon for the Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone vein.


    But his life-bound Demonic Beast was also a peak Third Rank Demonic Beast, making him a rare match for other Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Moreover, he had the backing of a Purple Mansion Loose Hermit.


    "Brother Xu is currently in closed-door cultivation practicing a spell," Lin Gang exined, sounding somewhat apologetic, "Daoist Lin, pleasee with me. Once the Ye Family and the Lu Family arrive, I presume that by then, Brother Xu should also be out of his seclusion!"


    Lin Shiming, catching Lin Gang''s expression, started to guess that considering Lin Gang''s previous earnestness, the defenses within Yunjing Mountain might be strong on the outside but empty on the inside.


    Lin Xianzhi understood as well and continued to converse andugh with Lin Gang. After learning about various situations on Yunjing Mountain during their journey, they finally arrived at the guest chambers prepared for the Lin Family.


    After arranging everything properly, Lin Gang called for a Qi Cultivationte-stage disciple to inform the Lin Family of the situation, and then once again hurriedly went to nearby formations to strictly guard them.


    As soon as Lin Gang left, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi waved the Spirit Beast Sect Qi Cultivation disciple away, and exchanged nces, both looking quite grim.


    In Heavenly River City, they had already learned that the Heavenly Demon Sect of Chu Country was incessantly dispatching Foundation Establishment cultivators to plunder and destroy various Spirit Mines.


    And the Spirit Stone veins supplying Spiritual Power for the city-guarding formations were of utmost importance.


    The Intermediate Grade vein in Yunjing Mountain, logically speaking, should be overseen by a Purple Mansion cultivator given such dangerous times, yet they had only ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator in charge, even if apanied by a peak Third Rank Demonic Beast.


    Nheless, most of the Demonic Beasts raised by the Spirit Beast Sectcked the Spirit Intelligence of cultivators, and at a crucial moment, they could notpete with a Fully Completed Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Besides that, Yunjing Mountain had only twote-stage, two middle-stage, and one early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, with the twote stages including Lin Gang and another named Cheng Yong, who was in charge of supervising the Spirit Stones within the vein.


    The number of Foundation Establishment cultivators was also not high.


    No wonder Lin Gang looked exceptionally pleased upon their arrival.


    "Shiming, arrange for our family cultivators to assist in the defenses," Lin Xianzhi said.


    Lin Shiming nodded in agreement. Given the situation within Yunjing Mountain, if word got out, it would likely be the first target of an attack by the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    And Xu Dai was still in seclusion, waiting for the cultivators from the three great families to gather before jointly emerging.


    After discussing with his father, Lin Hou Yuan, Lin Shiming decided they would take turns standing guard.


    Each person would guard for three days.


    After making arrangements, Lin Shiming voluntarily went to assist in the defense at the formation walls, joined by members of the Lin Family including Lin Shiyi and Lin Yuqing.


    From above, Yunjing Mountain looks like arge mirror lying in the midst of the mountains, surrounded by a wall.


    However, it cannot be considered a city; it is more akin to a fortress.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was also continuously sizing up the entire Yunjing Mountain, with his divine sense sweeping over it unremittingly.


    Inadvertently, he collided with Lin Gang''s divine sense, which sent a wave of confusion, though Lin Shiming retracted his quickly.


    This made him feel somewhat embarrassed; it was his first time fully extending his divine sense since the breakthrough, but this expansion was not without gains. On the contrary, he now had a rough understanding of the terrain of Yunjing Mountain in his mind.


    After all, they were only here to assist in defense. If the cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect approached aggressively, Lin Shiming was not one to adhere to outdated principles¡ªhe knew when it was necessary to flee.


    When Lin Shiming walked up to the city walls, Lin Gang also approached, but he merely smiled, greeted casually a couple of times, then arranged for a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator to follow Lin Shiming before departing again.


    Lin Shiming understood the implication but said nothing more. Instead, he found a spot on the city wall and began to peruse the fundamentals of artifact refining.


    Naturally, one cannot cultivate on these city walls, not even body refinement or divine sense cultivation would be appropriate.


    However, studying the manuals and understanding their essence seemed like a good way to pass the time.


    As for the matter of the city gate fortress, he was in no hurry. Although Xu Dai was unreliable and had not yet appeared, Lin Gang was dutiful and vignt, reducing the likelihood of significant problems.


    In this manner, Lin Shiming took turns assisting in the defense of Yunjing Mountain for half a month, until one day he saw two Spirit Boats approaching almost simultaneously in the sky.


    Unlike Lin Shiming''s prior visit, these Spirit Boats didn''t need to make inquiries; their tokens shed out, and amidst the golden light, a group of people descended as if they were immortals from heaven.


    Their cultivation levels were quite impressive as well. Both belonged to the Purple Mansion Family, one from the Qingxuan Sect''s Ye Family and the other from the Spirit Beast Sect''s Lu Family.


    Each family had five Foundation Establishment cultivators: one in thete stage, three in the middle stage, and one in the early stage.


    At this moment, Yunjing Mountain finally had neen Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Five in thete stage, plus six in the early stage and eight at the initial stage¡ªthis was a force to be reckoned with.


    Lin Gang still greeted them with a smiling face.


    "Where is Xu Daoyou?" The Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Ye and Lu families clearly held a grudge against Xu Dai and did not mince their words.


    It needs to be understood that both their families could have been guarding a Third Rank Spiritual Medicine Garden instead had it not been for Xu Dai''s call for help, their disdain for the Lin Family from Yunzhou, and their subsequent rerouting here.


    While an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine is precious, it does not mean that all the spirit stones in the mine are of intermediate quality; some are of inferior quality, but it gets named an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine because of a certain proportion of intermediate-grade stones.


    Yet, how could thispare to a Spiritual Medicine Garden where one could just reach out a hand ande up dripping with riches?


    And here, they still had to be restrained by Xu Dai.


    "Daoist Ye, Daoist Lu, Elder Brother Xu is still diligently honing his cultivation techniques to protect Yunjing Mountain from invasion by the demonic sect, hoping to give us an extra edge at the crucial moment!" Lin Gang responded respectfully and then led the Ye and Lu families inside Yunjing Mountain.


    "This is a Lin Family cultivator? Definitely from Yunzhou!" A Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivator from the Lu Family, also young, nced over, spotted Lin Shiming''s token, and then scoffed.


    Clearly, the vexation they held toward Xu Dai had now been directed at Lin Shiming.


    It was as if, were Lin Shiming not so weak, they would not have been sent to guard the Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine.

 Chapter 156 Dinner Party

    Lin Shiming watched with cold detachment, not uttering a word, allowing the others to jeer at him.


    The Lu Family cultivator''s smile grew even bigger.


    "The Lin Family wouldn''t have only sent a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator, right? Can such a cultivator withstand even a single strike from a Heavenly Demon Sect''s Demon Cultivator?"


    "Lu Daoyou, rest assured, this time the Lin Family also has Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivatorsing. Yunjing Mountain is absolutely safe. I ask that Lu Daoyou watch your words!" Lin Gang responded, his face showing some annoyance.


    Even though the Ye and Lu Families are Purple Mansion Families, his Spirit Beast Sect is a major sect disciple.


    In front of him, these two straightforwardly ridiculed the cultivators who came to help, which was essentially a p in the face for him, Lin Gang.


    The Lu Family cultivator then nodded, and once more nced at Lin Shiming, the contempt in his eyes as dense as ever.


    At this moment, Lin Shiyi and the others around Lin Shiming were starting to get angry.


    These two families had started with insults against their own family, and they were only Foundation Establishment Late Stage themselves; their Seventh Ancestor could match Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivators.


    However, at this time, Lin Shiming still did not speak; instead, he continued to sit in meditation.


    Seeing that Lin Shiming would not reply, the Ye Family cultivator and the Lu Family cultivator, feeling bored, followed Lin Gang and left.


    Mumbling under their breath, they were intent on seeking an audience with Xu Dai.


    As Lin Shiming watched the group leave, his eyes brimmed with confusion. He did not remember having offended these two families, nor did he recall ever making an enemy of that Lu Family cultivator.


    Cultivators generally have exceptional memory, remembering everything they see. As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, if he had any sort of interaction, even a brief one, he would remember it, which only deepened his confusion.


    Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators aren''t in their twenties, mere youngsters causing trouble without reason.


    Moreover, the Lin Family had just arrived and wouldn''t have impacted the interests of the Ye and Lu Families. His role in defending an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine as a Foundation Establishment cultivator earned him only one Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone a month, adding up to twelve a year.


    For Qi Cultivators, this might be a lot, but for a Foundation Establishment cultivator on a mission both important and dangerous, it seemed somewhat insufficient.


    The Ye and Lu Families, being Purple Mansion Families, would not take offense over this matter.


    No matter how hard he racked his brain, he couldn''t figure it out and had to let it go. With Lin Gang not present, he needed to be even more cautious.


    Demon Sect cultivators wouldn''t announce a fight and attack the Yunjing Mountain Formation directly.


    ¡­


    Within Yunjing Mountain, in a chamber, the handsome Lu Family cultivator embraced a female cultivator, his hands wandering all over her as he held a cup of Spiritual Wine in his other hand.


    Meanwhile, the Ye Family''s Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivator across from him wasn''t drinking wine, but Spiritual Tea instead.


    He delicately picked up a teacup, sipped gently, and set it down again.


    Then he couldn''t resist taking another sip, his expression not showing much enjoyment, however.


    "After all, this is just Second Rank Spiritual Tea," the Ye Family cultivator said with some regret.


    The Lu Family cultivator didn''t reply, but after drinking a cup of wine, fed a sip to the Qi Cultivating woman he embraced, his other hand as busy as ever.


    "Speaking of which, Lu brother, why were you so harsh with that Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator earlier? Could there be something mysterious about that Early Stage cultivator?" the Ye Family cultivator seemed ustomed to Lu Changming''s temperament and continued to inquire.


    Finally, Lu Changming looked up, his mouth curling into a smile:


    "Bullying a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator, isn''t that just like how you enjoy drinking tea and I enjoy drinking wine? It''s all a matter of preference, isn''t it?"


    "Besides, if the Lin Family weren''t so weak, you and I, brothers, would be guarding the Spirit Beast Sect''s Third Rank medicine garden by now, not wasting our time in this minor vein!"


    Lu Changming''s face was filled with anger, and as he spoke, his hands couldn''t help but tighten their grip.


    "Ah!" The female cultivator beside him couldn''t help but hum out.


    "Go, go, go, how buzzkilling. When Xu Daoyoues out of retreat, I''ll definitely have a proper talk with him. To think that he would bring out such trash!" Lu Changming directly sent the female cultivator away.


    The female cultivator''s face paled, but under Lu Changming''s angry gaze, she had no choice but to leave the room.


    Meanwhile, Ye Mingqiu also finally showed a bit of interest:


    "Does Brother Lu refer to Xu Daoyou having an additional opportunity here at Yunjing Mountain?"


    ...


    On the other side, Lin Shiming was also brought back to Yunjing Mountain by Lin Houyuan, and as soon as Lin Shiming returned, he immediately sought out Lin Xianzhi.


    To understand the information about the Lu and Ye families.


    But apart from knowing that the Lu family was a Beast Taming Family and the Ye family was a well-known Sword Cultivation Family in Qingzhou, most of the other information was of no use.


    Lin Shiming shared the oddities of that day, and Lin Xianzhi also shook his head, clearly just as confused.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to return to his quiet cultivation.


    And then, after another three days passed, the Lin family and the others finally received the notice to attend the banquet prepared by Xu Dai.


    The banquet wasn''t held with much grandeur. With the great enemy at their doorstep, grandeur wasn''t feasible; after all, people were needed to defend Yunjing Mountain.


    Lin Shiming followed behind Lin Xianzhi, still wearing an unfriendly expression.


    Soon the two entered a grand hall where luxurious brocade carpets wereid, and the decorations on both sides were equallyvish and grand, adorned with porcin and jade items.


    In the hall, Lin Shiming finally saw Xu Dai, the Deacon of Yunjing Mountain.


    A slightly chubby middle-aged cultivator who liked to squint his eyes.


    Xu Dai''s attire matched the grandeur of the hall, opulent and regal, dressed in brocade and adorned with splendid sashes.


    Almost at the same moment that the two of them entered, the cultivators from the Ye family and the Lu family also arrived almost simultaneously.


    "I thank all Daoyou foring from afar to aid us!" Xu Dai stepped forward, greeting each one.


    Then, even more so, he handed a small Storage Bag to each cultivator.


    "My fellow Daoyou, this is a little token of my defensive intention prepared for everyone. I hope that in theing days, we can unite and defend Yunjing Mountain together, to make a contribution against the Demon Cultivators for the sake of the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom!"


    Xu Dai continued, while Lin Shiming, almost unconsciously, let his Divine Sense probe into the Storage Bag.


    He saw a hundred Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones neatly inside, which gave Lin Shiming quite a shock.


    With the three families bringing a total of thirteen Foundation Establishment cultivators, even if each cultivator got a hundred Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones, that would be equivalent to a hundred and thirty thousand Inferior Grade Spirit Stones.


    And cultivators like Lin Xianzhi, Lu Changming, and Ye Mingqiu who were in theter stages of Foundation Establishment obviously couldn''t be receiving the same amount of Spirit Stones as him.


    Doing so wouldn''t just fail to ensure fairness, but would also make the cultivators feel that Xu Dai was insincere.


    By this calction, a considerable amount of Spirit Stones must have been given out, and with the frontlines consuming such a great amount of Spirit Stones, Xu Dai''s provision of such a quantity of Spirit Stones was indeed thought-provoking.


    Throughout the banquet, the cultivators indulged in a luxurious meal of Third Rank Spiritual Delicacies.


    During this time, aside from the Lu family still being unfriendly towards them, the Lin family, nothing problematic urred. However, the frowns of the Lin family''s cultivators grew tighter.


    But it was not directed at the Lu family, but rather at the unknown danger.


    Xu Dai offering so many benefits and calling upon twote-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Purple Mansion families indicated that he was also dissatisfied with the defense of Yunjing Mountain.

 Chapter 157: Chapter 158 Superior Grade Spirit Stone

    However, both Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi still did not understand. After the banquet ended, Lin Shiming also learned from Lin Xianzhi that inside his Storage Bag were eight hundred Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones.


    That was equivalent to eighty thousand Inferior Grade Spirit Stones, and for a Foundation Establishment cultivator, such an amount was already considered a considerable fortune.


    "This Xu Daoyou really has some clever tricks!" Back in his own room, after activating the Spirit Istion Formation, Lin Shiming thought back on the events and couldn''t help but sigh with emotion.


    Xu Dai was clearly reminding them that Yunjing Mountain had treasures, and it was very likely that cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect woulde too.


    And yet, Qian Dai, a cultivator with the Cultivation Level of Foundation Establishment Perfection, was not invited.


    The Spirit Stones of Lin Xianzhi, I''m afraid, couldn''tpare with those of Lu Changming and Ye Qiuming.


    "Each harboring their own schemes, it''s just a pity that we don''t have a stronger backing!" Lin Xianzhi was also somewhat helpless ¨C though they had the support of Zi Xuan Hermit and did not need to go to the frontlines, they still ended up in the dark and were part of someone''s calctions after arriving at the Yunjing Mountain Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone Mine.


    After leaving Lin Xianzhi''s room, Lin Shiming returned to his own room. He had hoped to wait for a system prompt, but unfortunately, the system prompts were still about Artifact Refining knowledge and did not mention the cultivators with the surname Lu, nor the treasures under the control of Xu Dai.


    Otherwise, his perspective would have been much clearer.


    Time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, a month had gone by. It was said that the situation in Heavenly River City was getting worse.


    The Spirit Veins and Spirit Stone Mines controlled by the variousrge Spirit Beast Sects within Heavenly River State were also attacked by disciples from the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect, losing a great deal of treasures.


    Fortunately, the Spirit Beast Sect brought out a magical mirror treasure, which somehow projected an image of the entire Heavenly River State. As long as there was a cultivator in Heavenly River State above the Purple Mansion stage, they would appear in the mirror, thus eliminating any Purple Mansion-stage cultivators from the raiding parties.


    "Sess!" Lin Shiming shut off the furnace, withdrew the true fire, and took out a sky-blue magic sword.


    The magic sword was only a Second Rank Inferior Grade Magic Artifact, and even mid-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators might not consider it valuable, but this was indeed the first Second Rank Inferior Grade Magic Artifact that he had ever refined.


    Lin Shiming put away the magic sword and once again fell into contemtion, revising the just-finished refinement process deliberately, aiming for improvement.


    It was a pity that Lin Yutie was not here, otherwise, as his first Artifact Refining experience, he could have also consulted with Lin Yutie.


    Another quarter of an hourter, Lin Shiming stood up from the meditation mat and walked outside.


    Today was another day for the three-day rotation, and he needed to go to the city walls of Yunjing Mountain to relieve his father from duty.


    At the city gate, Lin Shiming flew up to the rampart, only to find that Lu Changming coincidentally also flew up there.


    Thetter came to rece a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator from the Lu Family.


    "Why does the Lin Family cultivator seem so indifferent toward the city gate? Both the Ye and Lu families havete-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators standing guard. Does your Lin Family not have one?" In just a few words, Lu Changming had used the Lin Family of not contributing enough effort.


    Adjacent, Lin Gang and Lin Houyuan also walked over, with Lin Houyuan naturally feeling a headache. He thought the matter from a month ago had passed, but he did not expect Lu Changming toe seeking trouble again today.


    And Lin Gang didn''t need to say much; in his eyes, the Lin Family was the principal family. During this time, he also talked quite a bit with both Lin Houyuan and Lin Shiming.


    Especially Lin Shiming, who often brought out Spiritual Tea and showed great respect for his elders, was a young and talented cultivator well-versed in etiquette and knowing when to advance or retreat, which made him want to support and help him.


    "Daoist Lu is absolutely right in his instruction. However, my great-uncle likes quietude and is not fond of bustling ces. That is something I failed to report up, but with my great-uncle''s Divine Sense, he can cover the entire Yunjing Mountain at any time."


    "Naturally, Daoist Lu, as ate-stage Foundation Establishment powerhouse, would have a Divine Sense broad enough to bear witness, as long as there is no defect!" Lin Shiming said unhurriedly.


    "What a smooth talker who can argue his way out. I just don''t know if your strength can match your eloquence?" Lu Changming''s expression turned cold.


    "Daoist Lu, what does this mean?" Lin Gang took a step forward, his expression filled with dissatisfaction.


    Lu Changming had repeatedly ignored him, not once considering him worthy of attention.


    Even though the other family had a Purple Mansion cultivator, he had the entire Spirit Beast Sect behind him.


    "Daoist Lin, don''t be in such a hurry. It''s just that I saw this young friend with a Spirit Beast Bag at his waist, and I''ve heard that Daoist Lin has a formidable Third Rank Spirit Beast, so I thought we might have a discussion about beasts!" Lu Changming exined.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming also tensed up. At this moment, he thought of a possibility that this Lu Family cultivator might be connected to the one who had tried to steal his Mantis Demon Beast.


    After all, his Storage Bag currently contained a Heavenly Demon Bag and some books and Magical Treasures.


    Otherwise, why would Lu Changming want to fight animals as soon as he arrived?


    But then he thought again that although he had revealed the Golden Winged Mantis during the battle to breach the city in Qingyun City, he definitely had not exposed the fact that he had killed a Spirit Beast Sect cultivator.


    Otherwise, the other disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect, as well as the Golden Core True Persons, wouldn''t have let him off back then.


    And even if we take a huge step back, the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect had nothing to do with a n cultivator like Lu Changming.


    After all, from his Lin Family''s perspective, if Lin Shiming died, they would not mobilize the n to investigate extensively, let alone seek revenge with determination after four years.


    "Daoist Lu jests. The Lin Family is nothing but a declining n. Not to mentioncking fierce Spirit Beasts, even if we had one, how could it be a match for Daoist Lu?" Lin Shiming shook his head and declined.


    Lu Changming was pressing him hard, evidently with ulterior motives.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t some hot-blooded youth in his early twenties; how could he y into Lu Changming''s hands?


    As the standoff continued, a Spirit Boat also appeared on the horizon.


    "Uncle-Master Lin, we havee from the front lines to transfer Spirit Stones!" a Qi Cultivation disciple from the Spirit Beast Sect behind him said.


    Indeed, a Token flew out in the sky.


    The Token emitted light from both sides; on both its front and back were the words "Spirit Beast."


    After confirming the Token was authentic, Lin Gang prepared to open the Formation, allowing the cultivators on the Spirit Boat to enter.


    These cultivators in charge of transferring Spirit Stones had at least reached the peak of Foundation Establishment, or else the high-ranking cultivators wouldn''t have felt assured, so he did not dare to treat them with neglect.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming suddenly sensed a system alert in his mind.


    "Please be on guard against a sneak attack and pay attention to the cultivator controlling the corpse. You may be able to obtain a Superior Grade Spirit Stone!"


    As soon as the system alert appeared, Lin Shiming''s eyes changed dramatically.


    Although it was only three sentences, it signified that the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect were ready to make a move on Yunjing Mountain.


    And a sneak attack could very likely involve an inside man. Now, he finally understood why Xu Dai ced such importance on this Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone vein. It was probably because Superior Grade Spirit Stones had appeared, and Xu Dai desired to use them to create a small Spiritual Energy tide to break through from the Middle Stage to Perfection in Foundation Establishment.


    "Be careful, that Spirit Boat is a trap!" Lin Shiming suddenly shouted.


    As Lin Shiming shouted, Lin Gang paused for a moment, but at that moment the Formation gs had already opened.


    In their eyes, even if the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect were to attack, they would surely choose the night!

 Chapter 158: Chapter 159 Old Demon Chen

    Yunjing Mountain, the vast spell formation''s light shield disappeared in an instant.


    As Lin Shiming roared, Lin Gang also realized what was happening and hurriedly waved the formation gs again, preparing to reactivate the formation.


    But all they saw was a giant ck millstone, like a small mountain, ruthlessly crushing down.


    It firmly blocked the light shield''s cirction.


    Apanied by the grating, harsh sound of grinding, the golden light shield continued to be worn away.


    The spirit boats in the sky vanished in a sh, and about a dozen ck-robed Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators burst forth.


    "Hehe, there''s one who knows what''s happening, but it''s toote!" The leading ck-robed cultivator revealed his cultivation level, and the spread of his Supreme Grade spirit might at the peak of Foundation Establishment became apparent.


    Lin Shiming''s body was so pressured that he could barely breathe.


    "Yes, it''s Chen Laosatan!" Lin Gang''s face was also filled with shock. This person was one of the true disciples of the Heavenly Demon Sect. Although not a top direct disciple, his cultivation level and treasures were all among the finest in the Demonic Path, and only a demonic sect would be willing to spare such a genius disciple to raid for resources.


    Apart from Chen Laosatan, the other demon cultivators also cast spells quickly, each with a cultivation level no less than the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Especially the ck millstone wielded by Chen Laosatan, which clearly stood out even among third-rank Supreme Grade magic artifacts, could be seen in his one-handed spell casting, constantly driving it with spirit light after spirit light emanating, making the breach in the formation wider and wider!


    "Laosatan, how dare you?" Lin Gang also roared angrily, waving his hand toward the sky, and a golden-horned green ox charged out with a bellow, heading straight for the millstone.


    Meanwhile, Lu Changming''s face also became unsightly. He waved his hand instantly, and two red luan birds flew out, attacking the demon cultivators from left and right.


    The other Foundation Establishment cultivators also made their moves instantly, including Lin Shiming. At this moment, they stood to lose everything together, honor and disgrace intertwined. If the other Foundation Establishment cultivators died, as a disciple of the Three Sects, he would not escape death either, and he might even be captured to be a demonic leader or a demonic corpse.


    The Tiangang Sword Formation and the Profound Heavenly Purple Wood Sword Formation were almost simultaneously deployed, their enormous momentum startling many people.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s divine sense, as ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, was controlling the two sword formations, something that ordinary mid-Stage Foundation Establishment cultivators could not withstand.


    On the other side, Lu Changming was also shocked, but Lin Gang was even more surprised. He remembered that divine sense; it seemed to be Lin Xianzhi''s from that day when he had wondered how Lin Xianzhi, also a sword cultivator, could have a divine sense like that of a cultivator just entering thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Now it appeared to be the divine sense of Lin Shiming, an early stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lin Shiming''s attacks were incredibly fierce, with his sword formations opening and closing forcefully, wielding relentless sword light and pressing down.


    However, the dozen or so demon cultivators cast spells together, with blood light filling the sky, and various demonic path magic artifacts instantly descended, covering everything.


    Ultimately just one person, Lin Shiming could only feel the sword formation taking a violent hit, and a blood fiend gourd pouring out a great amount of demonic water actually managed to corrode the surface of the spirit swords in the formation.


    Lin Shiming''s face tightened instantly, and with a look of pained distress, he hastily withdrew his magic swords.


    Especially the formation swords of the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, which he had nourished with his heart and soul¡ªthose could absolutely not be corroded.


    In the end, out of the one hundred and eight swords in the Tiangang Sword Formation, several of the second-rank Supreme Grade magic artifacts were tainted, and for a short time, the Tiangang Sword Formation stood no chance of exerting its full power.


    The battle on the scene also became almostpletely one-sided, with Lin Gang and Lu Changming, aided by three spirit beasts, nearly being suppressed by the leading Full Circle Foundation Establishment cultivator alone.


    The remaining Foundation Establishment cultivators from the Lu and Ye families were being pushed back by the rest of the demon cultivators.


    With a thunderous boom, the ck millstone in the sky shed again with a dim glow, sweeping through with a cold wind.


    The golden spell formation''s light shield shattered abruptly, turning into streams of spirit light and extinguished beneath the millstone.


    "Everyone retreat quickly, back to the Yunjing Mountain Spirit Stone Mine!" Lin Gang''s face was a mix of disbelief and anger, but in this critical moment, preserving more power and defending the Spirit Stone Mine was paramount.


    The Token had been cracked, and this news also had to be spread.


    The Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family had boarded Lin Shiming''s Spirit Boat in almost an instant. Lin Shiming, who had already been system-alerted, had warned everyone to board the Spirit Boat and flee first while he himself began to form hand seals.


    In a sh, a great number of Purple Gold Vines shot out. The dense, thick, purple vines, like giant pythons from the void, intertwined and surged towards the Demon Cultivators, binding them.


    The vines that had been invincible before suddenly wilted upon encountering a burst of poison fog, and in the next moment, they began to dissolve into purple liquid.


    Lin Shiming was also greatly startled. This was his first encounter with Demon Cultivators, and he had not expected them to be so troublesome.


    Almost at that moment, a blossoming sword lotus of brilliant blue and gold tore through the sky.


    "Uncle Grandpa Seven!" Lin Shiming sighed in relief upon seeing Lin Xianzhi rushing to the scene.


    As expected, with Lin Xianzhi''s arrival, the situation took a turn for the better. Blue and gold Sword Lotuses transformed into beams of sword light, cleaving through the poison fog and the corrosive water, leaving nothing behind.


    As soon as Lin Xianzhi appeared, the Ye Family''s Ye Mingqiu also came wielding his sword. Although Ye Mingqiu''s sword intent was slightly weakerpared to Lin Xianzhi''s profound sword intent,


    Ye Mingqiu''s Magic Artifact was a Supreme Grade Third Rank one, and whenbined with a tremendously powerful sword technique, his presence was no less imposing than Lin Xianzhi''s.


    The sword swiftly flew up into the sky, turned into a towering Gang Jian, and fiercely plummeted towards the Demon Cultivator''s forehead.


    The situation hadrgely improved, but it was still not looking optimistic. Several Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Cultivators from the Lu Family and the Ye Family had their magic artifacts contaminated, significantly diminishing theirbat strength at this moment.


    Even a Qi Cultivator at the Early Stage Foundation Establishment who originally belonged to Yunjing Mountain fell dead on the spot.


    "Everyone, continue retreating to the Yunjing Mountain mines and wait for reinforcements!" Lin Gang was still firing off multiple Spirit Talismans.


    He attempted to send out messages, but then he saw thest of the Demon Cultivators, whose ck robe suddenly began to inte like it was being filled with air, swelling continuously.


    In the next moment, ck banners emerged from his body and were swiftly thrown towards the walls surrounding Yunjing Mountain.


    Out of nowhere, ten gs infused with Spiritual Energy appeared as Demon Banners, spewing out ck smoke that obscured the sun.


    "Is this the Ten Sons Heavenly Demon Formation?"


    And all of Lin Gang''s messages were devoured by the ck fog, clearly signaling the failure of message transmission.


    "Chen Laomo, you''re really willing to go all out!"


    Lin Gang could only resentfullyunch a Flying Sword, which violently shattered the ck millstone, and he began to retreat while fighting.


    Now without a Formation, there was no way to contend with the Heavenly Demon Sect''s Demon Cultivators. It was better to head to the mines, where Xu Dai''s Third Rank peak Spirit Beast could deal with these Demon Cultivators.


    As Lin Gang retreated, his Spirit Beast, the Golden Horned Green Ox, also let out a series of bellows and began to retreat.


    As Lin Gang pulled back, Lu Changming''s pressure intensified. Various ck demon hands reached out to grab him.


    "Retreat!" Lu Changming, with a hard look at Lin Gang and cursing him inwardly, also quickly retreated.


    Ye Mingqiu and Lin Xianzhi, facing Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators who were at theter stages of Foundation Establishment, nodded to each other and both withdrew together.


    And Lin Shiming, at the rear, had already steered the Spirit Boat to retreat towards the mines.


    Although many Cultivators of the Three Sects were injured, fortunately, only one had perished. As long as they gathered together and prepared the Formation well, with the assistance of the two great Sword Cultivators, Lin Xianzhi and Ye Mingqiu, there was still a great chance of sess.

 Chapter 159: Chapter 160: The Hatching of the Spirit Ants

    At this moment, he was still somewhat puzzled, not understanding why Xu Dai had yet to appear, and there was also a Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivator at the ore vein.


    "No, there are also cultivators from the Corpse Refining Sect!" Lin Shiming suddenly realized something and remembered what the system had alerted him to.


    "Uncle, we should just flee!" Lin Shiming sent an urgent sound transmission to Lin Xianzhi.


    Right now, although his exterior was extremely calm, the system''s alert was to watch out for sneak attacks and to control the cultivators from the Corpse Refining Sect, meaning that the current Chen Old Devil was not the most formidable foe.


    Especially since there were Supreme Grade Spirit Stones.


    If the opponent had gone to such lengths toe to steal them, it was likely that they were aware of the news about the Supreme Grade Spirit Stones, which meant that the cultivators from the Corpse Refining Sect had already entered the mine from beneath the earth!


    The more Lin Shiming thought about it, the more shocked he became, feeling a cold sweat on his back.


    He had just wondered why despite the millstone magic artifact withstanding the formation, Chen Old Devil did not charge through the formation but instead put all his effort into grinding it down. At that moment, they, who had no reaction, were at their most vulnerable to being killed.


    But if it was to allow the corpse-refining cultivators with Earth Escape Skill to enter the vein first and snatch the Supreme Grade Spirit Stones, then it made sense.


    "Shiming, what should we do?" Lin Xianzhi was also hesitant. It would be extremely irrational to try to escape now, as they might be directly killed by Chen Old Devil.


    Moreover, Lin Gang was still there. Unless there was no other choice, they could not turn into deserters!


    "We can''t break out!" Lin Xianzhi simply scanned the area. If they were to escape the Foundation Establishment cultivators, it would be impossible for them to survive, and Lin Shiyi along with the other Qi Cultivators would be a burden.


    Keep in mind that there was still the Ten Sons Heavenly Demonic Formation outside.


    "Uncle, something might have gone terribly wrong inside the ore vein. We still need to adapt to the situation as it unfolds!" Lin Shiming continued with sound transmissions while simultaneously releasing sword arrays and kept tossing seed after seed to the ground.


    These were Purple Gold Vine seeds that Lin Shiming had cultivated. At this moment, he forced himself to remain calm, constantly infusing Spiritual Energy into the Purple Gold Vine seeds and began catalyzing them immediately, transforming all the Purple Gold Vines into enhanced goldennce roots.


    He also informed Lin Houyuan that, if necessary, he should consume a Spirit Pill and forcibly activate a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Boat to ensure the safety of the rest of the Lin Family.


    His father, who was at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, waspletely inadequate and would even be a burden on the field.


    The ore vein was not far from the city wall, and the group quickly arrived. What they saw was a massive mine tunnel, and Lin Gang instantly sent a sound transmission inside.


    Xu Dai was in the mine tunnel breaking through to Foundation Establishment Perfection with the help of Supreme Grade Spirit Stones, and this was information only he knew.


    However, when the Sound Transmission Talisman entered, the response was not from Xu Dai nor the other Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivator, but from corpse-refined undead that rushed out from within the mine tunnel.


    These were the Blood Corpses that Lin Shiming had seen; andpared to Lin Shiming''s Blood Corpses, these seemed like killing machines, with sharp fangs that struck fear into people''s hearts and a thick aura of murderous energy that almost condensed into a cloak of bloody armor.


    "How could this be?" Lin Gang was dumbfounded, unable toprehend how Blood Corpses could appear in the Spirit Beast Sect''s underground mine.


    Following the appearance of the Blood Corpses, everyone felt the entire ore vein shaking, and the spirit might emanating from beneath the ground was immense.


    "It''s the Three-Headed Fire Snake! It''s fighting!" Lin Gang quickly realized. Xu Dai, a disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect, owned a Third Rank peak Demonic Beast¡ªThree-Headed Fire Snake, which was his pride. But considering that the Blood Corpses were able to support those above, it was likely that Xu Dai was in grave danger below.


    And how could this be possible? The other people did not know, but Lin Gang was aware that Xu Dai had found a small vein of Supreme Grade Spirit Stones in the mine below,


    It was precisely through utilizing that small vein that Xu Dai had recently broken through to the Great Perfection of Foundation Establishment. The reason he had not been seen with the other members of the Lin Family for some time was to consolidate his cultivation level and avoid revealing himself.


    Xu Dai had even promised him ten Supreme Grade Spirit Stones, which, although nominally only worth a hundred thousand Spirit Stones,


    One Supreme Grade Spirit Stone could virtually be exchanged for tens of thousands of Inferior Grade Spirit Stones, and practically no one would make the exchange.


    The pure spiritual energy within a Supreme Grade Spirit Stone wasparable to a Barrier-Breaking Pill, and for some Foundation Establishment cultivators who faced a bottleneck in their cultivation level, it was like a miraculous medicine.


    ```


    It was precisely because of this that he was willing to stick close to the city wall step by step.


    "Everyone split up and run, there are at least three Third Rank peak Blood Zombies below!" Lin Gang''s face was ashen, but to survive, they had to break through.


    And it had to be a joint breakout by everyone, as for the Ten Children Demonic Formation, he didn''t believe these people didn''t have their family treasures to rely on.


    "Brother Ye!" Lu Changming also spoke to Ye Mingqiu, both of them were somewhat panicked at this moment. Had they known they would encounter such a catastrophe at the Spirit Stone vein, they would have preferred to go to the frontline instead.


    A group of Foundation Establishment cultivators had almost all taken out magic artifacts that they had not used before; Lin Gang had an Eight Trigrams te. As he threw it out, it emitted various five-colored mysterious lights, which actually managed to immobilize Chen Lao Mo''s Supreme Grade grinding te magic artifact.


    Beneath him, his Golden Horned Green Ox carried him away as it turned into a golden light flying towards the outside.


    Ye Mingqiu also took out three swords again, which, together with the one he held before, made up the Four Seasons Sword Technique.


    In an instant, sword lights streaked across the entire sky, directly shing to death a demon cultivator at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment, and then led the Ye Family Foundation Establishment cultivators rushing towards the outskirts.


    The same was true for Lu Changming next to him; he released ten demonic beasts in one breath, each of extraordinary strength, ranging from the early stage to thete stage of the Third Rank.


    "Not a single one shall escape, pursue them!" Chen Lao Moughed instead of getting angry. The Ten Children Demonic Formation was not so easy to break through.


    Today, here, everyone must die, and all the Spirit Stones will belong to the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect!


    The crowd dispersed.


    At this time, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming did not rush.


    Of course, there was no use in them being anxious, unless they were willing to give up on Lin Shiyi and the others.


    Lin Xianzhi was the first to transmit a message to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, I will create an opportunity for youter. I haven''t tried expending all my strength to trigger the ''Ren Water Geng Sword Technique''!"


    Lin Shiming''s heart trembled instantly. His Seventh Great Uncle meant he was going to reverse his cultivation technique again, just like before, sacrificing his lifespan for a life-threatening sword to create an opportunity for him.


    And at this time, he did not mention Lin Shiyi and the others at all; evidently, Lin Xianzhi''s current sole thought was for Lin Shiming to survive!


    Lin Shiming was extremely anxious as well, but in the next moment, he suddenly felt his Divine Sense Spirit Contract being overwhelmed by densely packed Spirit Contract sensations.


    It was as if he had suddenly gained countless sons.


    "The Spirit Ants have hatched!" Lin Shiming felt a bit excited.


    The power of the Spirit Antsy in their ability to devour any Spirit Formation, the question was simply how quickly. Moreover, as they devoured, they were silent and unnoticeable, even to cultivators controlling the formations.


    This was why the Spirit Beast Sect was so eager to get their hands on Spirit Ants in Qingyun City that day, even if they couldn''t tame them, if they could turn them into a treasure, it could counter some Spirit Formations.


    He wasn''t sure if these newly hatched Spirit Ants could devour the Ten Children Demonic Formation, but he had no choice but to try.


    At the same time, he could only hope that Lu Changming, an extremely arrogantte-stage cultivator, had some real skills and would not be wiped out by Chen Lao Mo in the blink of an eye.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, listen to my arrangement, please, don''t be hasty!" Lin Shiming urged him.


    He now had to wait for an opportunity, a one-in-a-million chance.


    ```

 Chapter 160: Chapter 161 Counterattack

    The entirety of Yunjing Mountain had been transformed into a veritable hell, where the demon cultivators'' many methods involved blood and were fraught with Evil Qi, their dark fog covering the sky.


    In particr, the Ten Child Heavenly Demon Formation had also condensed ten demon heads, which now advanced towards Lin Gang, Ye Mingqiu, and others.


    At this moment, Old Demon Chen, truly worthy of being a direct disciple of the Heavenly Demon Sect, single-handedly battled both Ye Mingqiu and Lu Changming. One must know that Lu Changming had a total of ten Third Rank Demonic Beasts, not counting the two Red Luan Eagles from before, and now there were two Third Rank Late Stage Green-eyed Tigers as well.


    The two men and four beasts fought against Old Demon Chen alone, but thatrge ck grinding disc was simply too invincible; no matter the attack, whether it be invincible Sword Qi or intermediate spells, all were crushed to pieces by the grinding disc.


    He then burst intoughter and charged in, engaging in closebat with the two Green-eyed Tigers.


    Clearly, his Body Refinement techniques were also incredibly powerful.


    Meanwhile, Lin Gang faced two other Foundation Establishment Late Stage demon cultivators, and the remaining one was faced by Lin Xianzhi.


    Obviously, to the demon cultivators, the treasures that Lin Xianzhi had were evidently fewer than those of the others, even though Lin Xianzhi''s swordsmanship was outstanding. But nearby were three Formation-congealed Heavenly Demons.


    For a time, the Spirit Beast Sect was at a disadvantage everywhere, with no one able to break through¡ªeven getting close to the edge of the Ten Child Heavenly Demon Formation was difficult.


    The battle was teetering on a knife''s edge; the pressure faced by Lin Shiming and other Foundation Establishment Early Stage and Middle Stage cultivators was by no means small. Moreover, his Divine Sense had detected that just a moment ago, three more Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators had fallen.


    One must know that there were only neen Foundation Establishments in all of Yunjing Mountain, and now, in a short time, four had died, with the key figures Xu Dai and another Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivator trapped in the mineral vein cave.


    Lin Shiming felt the situation bing increasingly tense, especially since at this moment his father, Lin Houyuan, was also up against a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage demon cultivator. If not for relying on several defensive magic artifacts to tenaciously defend, he would have been in grave danger.


    On the other hand, the Qi Cultivators had, at this moment, scattered like birds and beasts, actually making it to the edge of the Ten Child Heavenly Demon Formation earlier.


    The demon cultivators didn''t bother with them; after all, even if Qi Cultivators fought for ten days and nights, they wouldn''t be able to break the Formation.


    "No good, we must break the stalemate!"


    Lin Shiming made up his mind, his opponent being a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage demon cultivator.


    That demon cultivator stretched out his hand, and out of thin air, a blood w materialized, reaching for Lin Shiming.


    Seeing the demon cultivator act so arrogantly, Lin Shiming immediately pinched his fingers, and nine Formation Swords flew out, instantly forming a massive Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Array.


    However, before Lin Shiming''s attack couldnd, the demon cultivator suddenlyughed. He then pulled out a ck gourd, and a flood of ck water that could corrode spiritual artifacts gushed out towards Lin Shiming''s Sword Array.


    "So young!" the demon cultivator continuously scoffed coldly, looking down on Lin Shiming and the other cultivators of the righteous path with disdain.


    Without magic artifacts, what could they use to fight him?


    However, in the next instant, before the ck water could cover the swords, the ground suddenly burst forth with dozens of dense golden spear tips.


    The demon cultivator''s face changed dramatically. He pulled out a lot of Spirit Talismans and furiously bombed them, but upon seeing so many Purple Gold Vine Roots, he immediately took out a blood-colored straw figure.


    It was a Third Rank Substitute Tribtion Straw Figure, which could take one''s ce in critical moments. Lin Shiming had seen a Second Rank substitute tribtion treasure at the auction.


    But before he could squeeze the straw figure, he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his head.


    The next moment, his body was pierced through by golden Spirit Roots.


    To his dying breath, he could not believe that he had been killed by a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator with a Divine Sense attack.


    Almost immediately after Lin Shiming finished off this Foundation Establishment cultivator, quite a few demon cultivators turned their eyes toward him. This was the second demon cultivator to die; the first had perished under Ye Mingqiu''s sword, but it must be noted that Lin Shiming was merely a Foundation Establishment Early Stage.


    At this moment, Ye Qiuming, Lin Gang, and other Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators all took notice of him.


    At that moment, three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Demon Cultivators abandoned their opponents and charged toward Lin Shiming.


    The next moment, three blood des shed at Lin Shiming, who had no choice but to activate hundreds of Purple Gold Vine Spirit Roots again, transforming them into golden spears and shooting them toward the three Demon Cultivators.


    At this moment, the three Demon Cultivators were extremely shrewd, floating very high, and even Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense attacks couldn''t make them lose focus for three breaths.


    And within the span of three breaths, they were able to react to the golden spirit spears.


    Sure enough, facing three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Demon Cultivators, Lin Shiming''splexion turned pale from the massive consumption of his Spiritual Power, filled with worry.


    However, Lin Shiming''s attacks had also clearly turned the tide of the battle.


    The next moment, Lin Gang was the first to fight desperately.


    Spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood, whichnded on the Bagua Magic Artifact in his hand, suddenly a rich and intense five-colored light appeared, shining on two Foundation Establishment Late Stage Cultivators, immobilizing them.


    The two Foundation Establishment Late Stage Demon Cultivators were also terrified, fearing a sneak attack from the Golden Horned Green Ox, and almost simultaneously turned into a blood mist, retreating more than a hundred meters in an instant.


    It was the Blood Escape Technique.


    Seeing this, Lin Gang was not angry but was actually pleased. He was not really trying to kill anyone; at this time, only fools would waste their True Yuan on killing.


    He suddenly turned around, holding three Xue Sha Thunders in his hand, and furiously threw them at the dark curtain of the Ten-Child Heavenly Demon Formation.


    In an instant, lightning shed brightly, engulfing the ck spirit curtain like an ocean, and the ten Heavenly Demons immediately let out pitiful and mournful screams.


    The Golden Horned Green Ox transformed into a huge golden horn and charged at the ck curtain formation.


    "This could work!" Lin Gang eximed with joy.


    At almost the same time, Ye Mingqiu and Lu Changming also unleashed their techniques, desperately bursting forth, charging toward the outer side of the ck spirit curtain.


    In their hands were also several Xue Sha Thunders.


    Meanwhile, the Demonic Beast belonging to Lu Changming went insane, charging at Old Demon Chen, and began to self-destruct¡ªan Early Stage Third Rank Demonic Beast first, followed by a Mid Stage Third Rank Demonic Beast, with explosive noises constantly ringing in the air.


    The outbreak on the field took ce almost in an instant, and at this time, Lin Shiming also began to frantically form hand seals.


    His True Yuan inside was already dried up, but the Spirit tform built by the Heart of Heavenly Wood began to flicker and shine, with a great surge of True Yuan flowing out.


    It was at this moment that hundreds of densely packed, interconnected golden spirit spears emerged from underground. The three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage old demons rose into the air again, this time directly floating up three hundred meters.


    However, Lin Shiming took out a Spirit Drum and began to beat it furiously.


    The thunderous drumming turned into ripples,yer uponyer, moving toward the three Demon Cultivators, apanied by another Split Spirit de, causing them to scream almost simultaneously.


    All of their prepared defences vanished, and the hundreds of golden spirit spears once again elerated nearly twice as fast.


    "You are not at the Early Stage of Foundation Establishment!" The three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Demon Cultivators couldn''t believe it, falling to their deaths and crashing down as corpses.


    Lin Shiming waved his hand and picked up the four Storage Bags one by one, then charged toward Lin Houyuan, whose opposing Demon Cultivator fled in a blink.


    He knew that whether it was the Corpse Cultivator inside the vein or their Demon Cultivators outside, all held the advantage. None would fight desperately.

 Chapter 161: Chapter 162: Breaking Through the Formation

    At that moment, Lin Xianzhi''s hair also turned snow white suddenly, different from the white of his own transformation. The white he now bore was the extreme white of old age.


    He had reversed his cultivation technique!


    All for one more sword strike.


    His sword, at this very moment, changed from a blue-golden lotus to a golden-blue lotus.


    The name was inverted, but to Lin Xianzhi, it was more familiar, also more deadly, and even more fierce.


    The entire sky became a domain dominated by his sword!


    Sword Qi soared for thirty thousand miles!


    One strike''s cold light chilled neen provinces!


    The myriad lotus Sword Intents almost in a single encounter sliced off an arm of a Demon Cultivator at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, who only escaped by using the Blood Escape Technique.


    Lin Xianzhi didn''t pursue, taking Lin Shiming and Lin Houyuan with him, also rushing towards the outer periphery of the Formation.


    At this time, Old Demon Chen was extremely ragged, sted by the self-destruction of a Spirit Beast, with his face full of bloodthirsty and murderous intent.


    "Foolish!"


    Old Demon Chen''s coldughter soon saw its results. The Golden Fiend Thunder indeed blew open a wide gap, but that very gap was directly barred by three Heavenly Demons, which disappeared, turning their vanishing bodies back into ck smoke and forming a new screen for the Formation.


    The Formation remained as solid as ever. The Golden Horned Green Ox charged at it, causing the entire ck screen to cave in, yet three more Heavenly Demons coalesced to continue barring it.


    Even the Golden Horned Green Ox was, instead, enveloped by the Heavenly Demons, beginning to corrode its body and bleed profusely.


    The Heavenly Demons, as though having taken a tonic, gave excited, cackling roars once more.


    On the other side, Lu Changming and Ye Mingqiu nearly met the same fate.


    The Ten Child Heavenly Demons Formation truly lived up to its reputation as the gship Third Rank Supreme Grade Formation of the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    Almost breached at several moments, it was instantly repaired; and now with their True Yuan exhausted, they were overtaken by pursuing Demon Cultivators, facing even more fierce oppression. Among them, Lu Changming suffered the worst fate. Due to self-destructing a Spirit Beast and a Spirit Contract, the bacsh upon his Divine Sense was extremely severe.


    If it weren''t for Ye Mingqiu''s continuous eruptions of power, Old Demon Chen would have nearly crushed Lu Changming to death.


    "Unleash the sword!" Lin Shiming shouted, and Lin Xianzhi responded instantly.


    A Qinglian Sword, like a bloom of void Green Lotus unfolding, countless Sword Qi swept out like a sea of swords, surging towards the Ten Child Heavenly Demons Formation.


    And almost at the same time as the Formation, three Xue Sha Thunders were fiercely thrown out by Lin Shiming''s hand.


    "Useless!"ughed the Demon Cultivator at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, shaking his head.


    Sure enough, after the attack, four Heavenly Demons appeared in the Formation, dissipating into ck mist to repair it.


    In that instant, everyone understood that without a force capable of surpassing the power of ten Heavenly Demons, the Formation could not be breached.


    And the power of ten Heavenly Demons, estimated, would be equivalent to that of the early stage of Purple Mansion.


    The Formation remained unbroken, plunging the Lin Family into crisis once again.


    Just then, from the Spirit Cave in the vein, several blood corpses suddenly flew into the cave.


    Following that, a figure at the peak of Foundation Establishment, Xu Dai, was seen charging with a Three-Headed Fire Snake, except now the Fire Snake had only two heads left, the third one ripped brutally off.


    Xu Dai didn''t even nce at the others, driving the Three-Headed Fire Snake straight towards the exterior of the Formation at terrifying speed, like a meteorite smashing viciously into the ck screen.


    Almost at the same moment Xu Dai burst out, from deep underground, like a cave full of zombies, first three golden Iron Corpses charged towards Xu Dai, followed by robed figures emerging, with more blood corpses appearing behind them.


    Corpse Refining Sect came with four people in total, one at the perfection of Foundation Establishment, who was also the owner of the Golden Corpse, one at theter stage of Foundation Establishment, and two at the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Four cultivators, yet they possessed nearly twenty third-rank blood corpses.


    In an instant, Lin Gang and Lu Changming, among others, became even more desperate. Then, everyone looked towards Xu Dai, hoping only that he could break the Ten-Child Heavenly Demon Formation.


    However, the fiery meteor erupted with unrivaled force, eventually conjuring nine Heavenly Demons.


    In the end, it did not reach ten Heavenly Demons.


    The formation breakthrough failed; the dark curtain formation remained intact, and the three Golden Corpses immediately entangled Xu Dai and his Three-Headed Fire Snake.


    "Fellow Daoists, the four of us must attack the formation together. A strike that even ten Heavenly Demons cannot withstand will do, otherwise, we will all be turned into corpses by that Golden Corpse Child!" Xu Dai finally spoke out loudly.


    His face was ghastly pale, and both the corners of his mouth and his clothes were smeared with blood, clearly having sustained many injuries in the mine vein.


    The Golden Corpse Child he mentioned was none other than the leading Foundation Establishment practitioner in the Corpse Refining Sect, renowned among the sect''s Foundation Establishment disciples for controlling three peak third-rank blood corpses.


    In addition to the Three-Headed Fire Snake, Xu Dai also took out several supreme grade third-rank magic artifacts. Possessing the support of the Purple Mansion, his treasures were all exceedinglyvish, ranking him as one of the true inheritors in the Spirit Beast Sect.


    "Golden Corpse Child, strike quickly!" Elder Demon Chen also roared furiously. If Xu Dai managed to break out, it was indeed possible for him to escape, and this time, with several hundred superior grade Spirit Stones, it was very likely that a Purple Mansion cultivator would catch up.


    After Elder Demon Chen spoke, he also steered a ck millstone, smashing it towards Xu Dai and the others.


    The Golden Corpse Child sharply blew his flute, and the three golden corpses transformed into a sh of golden light that vanished. In the next moment, they violently collided with the Three-Headed Fire Snake.


    The fierce battle nearly turned the situation upside down.


    And just at that moment, Lin Shiming also found an opportunity and began to form hand signs again. A sea of purple vines grew out, covering the sky like a vine ocean.


    Rushing towards the encircling demon cultivators.


    Lin Xianzhi also resumed his attacks, yet both seemed like final, powerless, and tragic counterattacks before death.


    With no more Golden Fiend Thunder left, Lin Xianzhi grew increasingly aged, while the demon cultivators were in no hurry at all. With the Golden Corpse Child and Elder Demon Chen present, who could break through the Ten-Child Heavenly Demon Formation?


    The terrifying battle erupted once again, and Lu Changming directly ordered hisst third-rankte-stage Spirit Beast to rush to its death, while Lin Gang fiercelymanded the Golden Horned Green Ox to charge at the ck millstone, ultimately being blown to pieces.


    Additionally, one head of Xu Dai''s Three-Headed Fire Snake wrapped itself around the three golden corpses in the next moment, being brutally severed.


    Once more, the three gathered their full strength, their various magic artifacts crashing against the ck curtain formation, creating thunderous booms that shattered on the Ten-Child Heavenly Demon Formation''s screen.


    However, just then, Elder Demon Chen took out a ck banner. At a critical moment, he enveloped the attacked area, with countless tiny demons flying out, suicidally blocking the assaults.


    In the end, the attack from Xu Dai and the others barely managed to shatter ten Heavenly Demons.


    The formation still did not break.


    A wave of utter despair overcame the four, with Elder Demon Chenughing heartily.


    Today, none of the Zhao Kingdom''s cultivators shall remain here!


    And at that moment, only to see that Lin Shiming fiercely transmitted a message to Lin Xianzhi, then suddenly, a swarm of Soul-Devouring Ants flew out, gnawing a hole tens of meters wide through the formation curtain.


    Three supreme grade third-rank Spirit Boats practically flew out of the formation simultaneously, each controlled by Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi, and Lin Houyuan.


    The three went in separate directions, with Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming each fleeing on their own, while only Lin Houyuan took Qi Cultivators with him.


    Of the thousands of Soul-Devouring Ants, he only retracted eight hundred, leaving two hundred to continue maintaining the breach in the Ten-Child Heavenly Demon Formation.


    Seeing this from afar, Xu Dai, Lu Changming, and the others were overjoyed and charged out with all their might.

 Chapter 162: Chapter 163: The Lifespan Spirit Corpse

    In the ins of Heavenly River State, Lin Shiming''s Spirit Boat dared not stop for even a moment.


    At this time, his n had dispatched three teams along three paths; if any group were caught up to, it was fate, and that was all he could do.


    After all, everyone was mentally prepared for this possibility when they left the n and were called to arms.


    Of course, the one under the most pressure right now was Lin Xianzhi, whose strength at thetter stage of Foundation Establishment had been severely injured.


    Lin Shiming dared not look back, nor did he dare to extend his Divine Sense too far, for stretching it out too much might allow others to detect it.


    In such times, the sky was filled with the probing Divine Senses of demon cultivators; once Divine Senses met, seeking one out would be courting death.


    Of course, with his Divine Sense, he was confident that even if Chen the Old Demon personally chased him, he would be able to detect it.


    His cultivation level was at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, yet he possessed the Divine Sense of thetter stage, which was his greatest reliance.


    It was just unfortunate that his Body Refinement cultivation was only at theter phase of Qi Cultivation; otherwise, if he also had the Body Refinement strength of the Foundation Establishment stage, he wouldn''t have feared most at theter stages of Foundation Establishment.


    The farther Lin Shiming traveled, the lower the Spirit Boat flew, carrying only him as it shrunk to a size just over two meters, resembling a t boat soaring between heaven and earth.


    Lin Shiming took out the Qinglian Taoist Robe, preparing to find a cave dwelling to start hiding. Running around aimlessly could easily lead to death, so it would be better to conceal himself.


    However, the next moment, as his Divine Sense probed the ground, he suddenly detected a deep yellow Escape Light hidden in the depths of the earth, and within it was a ck-robed cultivator.


    At this time, the ck-robed cultivator obviously knew he had been discovered, and violently threw three Spirit Talismans from his sleeve, which burst forth from the ground, turning into three yellow serpents of earthy hue, and lunged to devour Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming was filled with dread, realizing that if he hadn''t deliberately probed underground, he might have been ambushed by someone from the Corpse Refining Sect, which would have been exceedingly vicious.


    Lin Shiming released the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation. Without the polluted water to worry about for his magic artifact, he could finally use the Sword Array without reservations.


    Under the Sword Array, the three earthy yellow Spirit Pythons immediately shattered into fragments, as flimsy as paper, seemingly not like Third Rank Spirit Talismans, but rather like those of Second Rank.


    As Lin Shiming puzzled over this, from the ruins of the three earthy yellow Spirit Pythons, three blood lights appeared, revealing three Blood Corpses that fiercely lunged at Lin Shiming.


    "It''s actually a Hidden Corpse Talisman!" Lin Shiming was greatly shocked as well. The ck-robed member of the Corpse Refining Sect was truly insidious to employ such a tactic!


    Each Blood Corpse was at the intermediate strength of the Third Rank, and their proximity left him somewhat flustered.


    He could only hurriedly take out the Heavenly Demon Bag, which howled as it unleashed a massive gust, instantly sweeping the three Blood Corpses away, preventing them from getting any closer. At the same time, Lin Shiming swiftly retreated, widening the gap between them.


    He threw down the few remaining seeds in his hand.


    "What a treasure!" the ck-robed cultivator''s eyes lit up, for ordinary gusts would hardly move his Blood Corpses.


    It seemed as though this Demon Bag was specifically designed tobat those with strong physical bodies and close-quarterbat styles.


    "How much True Yuan do you have left?"


    The ck-robed man sneered, and then pinched a form, taking out a set of blood-red coffin from his Storage Bag once more.


    The entire coffin was three zhang long, and as the ck-robed middle-aged man bit his finger and pressed down hard on the coffin, it began shaking violently.


    In an instant, the coffin shook incessantly, and the next moment, with a loud noise, the lid of the coffin flew off, and a monster corpse that was two zhang in size surged out fiercely.


    And this was also the ck-robed cultivator''s Lifebound Corpse.


    As soon as the corpse emerged, a torrent of evil energy and a pungent blood rain pressed down on Lin Shiming.


    The fierce wind from the Heavenly Demon Bag had no effect on this life-bound Corpse.


    Clearly, in front of this life-bound Corpse was a nimble Demonic Beast that resembled a leopard, being refined into a life-bound Corpse. Not only was its speed extremely fast, but it also retained a degree of Spirit Intelligence. Compared to a blood corpse, it was indescribably more powerful.


    If a blood corpse were akin to a rigid Third Rank mid-stage Body Refining Cultivator, then this life-bound Corpse definitely amounted to a Third Rank intermediate-grade peak Body Refining Cultivator.


    The pressure of a single Corpse Refining rivaled that of an ordinaryte-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivator.


    In an instant, Lin Shiming took out the Shocking God Drum and, together with the Split Spirit de,unched an attack on the ck-robed Cultivator. The control over the three blood corpses was immediately released, and they were scattered by the fierce wind of the Heavenly Demon Bag in midair.


    But just as Lin Shiming was about to attack the ck-robed Cultivator, a pungent wind came his way, and that life-bound Corpse seemed even more excited as it charged towards Lin Shiming.


    Boom!


    In the next moment, Lin Shiming emphatically pped the Spirit Beast Bag, making the Red-haired Demon Monkey leap out fiercely. The Profound Spirit Mountain was violently thrown, and the heavily weighted Spirit Mountain smashed the life-bound Corpse, sending it flying.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey also howled excitedly. It hadn''t had the chance to spar with the Golden Winged Mantis, and now it had been eager for battle for a long time.


    Earlier, when Lin Shiming was fighting at Yunjing Mountain, the monkey had been restlessly darting around inside the Spirit Beast Bag.


    As the Red-haired Demon Monkey became excited, the mes on its tail red up violently, and in the next instant, theypletely enveloped its body, covering it in fire.


    The raging mes, like the magma of a volcano, carried a terrifying temperature, and in the next instant, they surged out, continuing to smash the life-bound Corpse.


    At this moment, the ck-robed Cultivator also reacted, and his face immediately darkened upon seeing the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    He hadn''t expected Lin Shiming to still have a trick up his sleeve, even in the perilous situation at Yunjing Mountain.


    However, the solemnity on his facested only for a moment. He then took out another ck g from his sleeve.


    This ck g was only the size of a palm, resembling a battle formation g. With a wave of his hand, the next moment, it turned into a massive gpole reaching the sky.


    As the gigantic g fluttered, it seemed like a zombie hell inside; countless zombies poured out, including Second Rank Iron Corpses, Second Rank Blood Corpses, Third Rank early-stage Blood Corpses, and Third Rank early-stage Green-haired Zombies¡ªall sorts and varieties charged towards Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming''s Profound Heavenly Sword Formation promptly flew out once again, transforming into a circr Trapping Formation. Sword Qi continuously spawned within it. Any approaching zombies were instantly chopped into pieces.


    However, just when Lin Shiming thought this zombie sea tactic was futile, he heard a loud ng; a nondescript green-haired corpse fiercely smashed towards the Sword Array.


    He saw the Wood Attribute Sword Array, known for its strong offensive and defensive capabilities, instantly crumble.


    "Another life-bound Corpse!" Lin Shiming was extremely surprised. One should know that the Corpse Refining Sect''s life-bound corpses, like the Spirit Beast Sect''s life-bound Spirit Beasts, could grow alongside a Cultivator, but the resources consumed increased exponentially.


    Moreover, during regr Cultivation, one had to manage their own growth while continually honing the life-bound Corpse with True Yuan. Otherwise, if the Corpse failed to advance, it would hinder the Cultivator''s own progression.


    The ck-robed Cultivator having two life-bound corpses waspletely beyond his expectations.


    Seemingly noticing Lin Shiming''s surprise, the ck-robed Cultivator felt extremely proud. However, his pride didn''tst long, as Lin Shiming''s Shocking God Drum activated once again.


    This time he was prepared, with so many corpses to refine.


    Lin Shiming still had to be wary of his green-haired corpse, but then, a surge of golden light emerged, and a huge scythe suddenly shed down at the forehead of the green-haired zombie.


    In an instant, the green-haired zombie was directly sent flying with a massive crack on its forehead, and yet the zombie seemed to be unscathed!

 Chapter 163: Chapter 164 - Testing and Counter-Pursuit

    The ck-robed cultivator also became tense, as Lin Shiming took out another third-rank spirit beast, and it seemed that both were as extraordinary as his own corporeal spirit corpses.


    Scared, he hastily took out three spirit talismans.


    However, no sooner had he taken out the spirit talismans than a sh of white light flickered through the void, like a spiderweb passing through.


    A head soared high into the air.


    With that, the ck-robed cultivator fell.


    As soon as the ck-robed cultivator perished, the ordinary zombies and blood corpses immediately began to wander aimlessly, like walking corpses without any spirit intelligence.


    Only those two corporeal spirit corpses became even more excited, pressing aggressively towards the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The mes of the Red-haired Demon Monkey greatly suppressed that leopard corpse, yet it was still bombarded relentlessly.


    One could imagine the strength of the corpse, but the Golden Winged Mantis did not disappoint its expectations, firmly suppressing the green-haired zombie. Its massive scythe-like legs left no less than ten huge cracks on the body of the green-haired zombie, which would have been fatal to an ordinary body refining cultivator.


    Lin Shiming first used the Heavenly Demon Bag to take away the green-haired zombie, then he and his two beasts suppressed the leopard corpse and also put it into the Heavenly Demon Bag.


    These two corporeal spirit corpses obviously had value for cultivation, and their bodies were extremely strong. If he could find a way to control them from the Corpse Refining Sect cultivators and bring them back to guard the Fangmu Mountain, it wouldn''t be a bad idea.


    Moreover, these corporeal spirit corpses clearly possessed spirit intelligence of their own, and control didn''t necessarily require the cultivation of the Corpse Refining Sect''s techniques.


    On the other hand, those blood corpses were of no value, with strength far below that of cultivators of the same rank. Following Lin Shiming''s order, they were all burned to ashes by the mes from the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Lin Shiming put away the storage bag, then used the Fireball Technique to burn the entire ground, followed by a catalysis spell to elerate the growth of nearby ordinary nts until they reached their original height. He left satisfied, having ensured the scene had no obvious ws.


    However, just as Lin Shiming was about to leave, a dazzling escape light flew rapidly towards him from the sky.


    He recognized it all too well; it belonged to a cultivator from the Lu Family, Lu Ziming.


    Lu Ziming looked extremely bedraggled, as if he had suffered serious injuries, and he was heading straight for Lin Shiming.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming immediately steered the spirit boat. The other party was ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, and Lin Shiming didn''t believe he could stand a chance against him, especially as there was such a formidable Corpse Refining Sect expert hunting him down. What could be the cultivation level of the person pursuing Lu Ziming?


    Thinking of this, Lin Shiming sped up the spirit boat even more. Moreover, not only was his own True Yuan depleted, but also arge portion of the True Yuan in the Heart of Tianshu on his Spirit tform.


    The remaining True Yuan at best equated to that of an ordinary early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lin Shiming quickly took out an intermediate-grade spirit stone, but then he suddenly remembered the system prompts, Corpse Refining Sect disciples, and ambushes, all of which had been verified except for the superior-grade spirit stones.


    So, while steering the spirit boat, he also took out the storage bag of the Corpse Refining Sect cultivator. Upon opening the storage bag, what first caught his eye were not the various bottles and jars, nor the jade slips.


    Rather, it was a wooden rack with a nanmu box iid with golden threads, half-open, revealing more than thirty lustrous and beautiful spirit stones inside.


    These spirit stones were about the same size as the intermediate-grade spirit stones and had various shapes, as if they had just been mined from the veins and had not been polished.


    However, the amount of spiritual energy was so terrifyingly pure that it was even more refined than the third-rank superior-grade spirit vein of Fangmu Mountain.


    "Superior-grade Spirit Stones!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but feel his heart race. He had not expected someone would go to great lengths to deliver superior-grade spirit stones to him.


    These spirit stones were far more valuable than other magic artifacts and, with these pure superior-grade spirit stones, just five or so would be enough. When used during a breakthrough to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, the released pure spiritual energy could even loosen the bottleneck significantly.


    Xu Dai had used a small superior-grade spirit stone mine to achieve his perfect Foundation Establishment.


    Of course, at this moment, what mattered most was restoring his True Yuan.


    Lin Shiming grasped a wood attribute superior grade Spirit Stone and began to recover his True Yuan.


    As he inhaled the spiritual energy from the superior grade Spirit Stone, he felt its immense purity. It instantly filled a significant portion of his Spirit tform, and he hardly needed to refine it.


    It flowed exceptionally smoothly, and his True Yuan visibly thickened.


    While flying the Spirit Boat, Lin Shiming continued to recover his True Yuan, and for a moment, his mood greatly improved.


    However, Lu Changming was still hot in pursuit behind him, but what puzzled Lin Shiming was that Lu Changming was not flying a Spirit Boat; he still maneuvered a longsword, yet his speed was not a bit slower than that of a third rank superior grade Spirit Boat.


    "Lin my friend, there are no pursuers behind us, no need to run!" Lu Changming called out from behind with earnest persuasion.


    There was a sense of urgency in his tone, yet how could Lin Shiming believe him? He still did not understand why Lu Changming harbored such great animosity towards him.


    Then, he heard Lu Changming abruptly say:


    "Lin my friend, I am the n uncle of Lu Shenwu. The Beast Nurturing Pill recipe and the Golden Luan Eagle, weren''t they sold to you by Lu Shenwu?"


    Upon hearing this, a storm of shock surged within Lin Shiming''s heart.


    The name of Lu Shenwu, along with the Beast Nurturing Pill recipe and the Golden Luan Eagle, instantly reminded him of the Cultivator with the surname Wu.


    Lin Shiming did not respond, but what he saw next stunned him: Lu Changming had actually started to flee, the sword light darting off to the side.


    No longer pursuing him.


    It seemed as if he knew he could not catch up with him, very strange indeed.


    "Not good!" Lin Shiming felt a jolt of rm within his heart.


    Lu Changming not giving chase was not a good sign; it could mean that Lu Changming might know about him killing Lu Shenwu and subsequently deduced the whereabouts of the Minor Divine Ability Tree.


    Lin Shiming felt incredibly bitter in an instant. He did not know how Lu Changming had found out, but he believed that it was surely because Lu Changming had seen the shock on his face just now and had sensed the superior grade Spirit Stone.


    Otherwise, he would not have fled.


    Lin Shiming instantly cursed himself for still being too young and inexperienced, which had given him away.


    "Is Lu friend truly the n uncle of Lu Shenwu?" Lin Shiming did not dare to gamble, nor could he afford to; otherwise, the entire Lin Family of Fangmu Mountain would have to pay for this piece of information with their lives.


    The fact that Lu Changming was attempting to flee further suggested that he was in a desperate situation.


    This old fox had fiercely pursued him, probably just to exert pressure on him and then extract information through conversation.


    Indeed, Lin Shiming also understood that Lu Changming still had some treasures hidden away. Even if his magical power and True Yuan were insufficient and he had lost one out of ten of his magic artifacts, evencking a third rank Spirit Boat, he still wished to take a gamble.


    Otherwise, if the Spirit Beast Sect were to investigate, he would have to flee from Zhao Kingdom or seek refuge with the Corpse Refining Sect or the Heavenly Demon Sect, and these two Sects would certainly demand the Minor Divine Ability Tree from him.


    Lin Shiming also spoke these words to fish for information from Lu Changming. If Lu Changming stopped, it would not mean that he had fallen for the trap, but that Lu Changming still retained his strength and the old fox was turning the tables.


    If he continued to flee wildly, that would truly mean that Lu Changming had escaped Yunjing Mountain at a terrible cost.


    Otherwise, with his arrogant and domineering nature, even if Lin Shiming were a Cultivator at theter stages of Foundation Establishment, he might get into a fight with him!


    Lin Shiming''s third rank Spirit Boat once again elerated at full force, but this time it was not to escape, but to chase and kill a Cultivator at theter stages of Foundation Establishment; had this happened before, he would not have believed it was possible.

 Chapter 164: Chapter 165: Wind, Fire, Stars, and Sand

    Lin Shiming''s Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Boat was extremely fast, and he also had a Superior Grade Spirit Stone in his hand to restore his True Yuan.


    Visibly, the distance between him and Lu Changming began to shorten.


    At this moment, his Divine Sense could see Lu Changming''s face filled with panic, as he asionally spat out a mouthful of fresh blood. Underneath him, the Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword was also faintly unstable, seemingly running out of True Yuan.


    Lu Changming saw that he was about to be caught, and he then took out another Spirit Talisman and began to elerate, widening the gap once more.


    But Lin Shiming''s face was full of suspicion at this moment, and he didn''t dare to take action immediately. How could such an old fox like Lu Changming show all his emotions on his face?


    If he rushed over immediately, he would likely be cut down by the opponent''s sword in one strike.


    The two of them continued to chase and flee, spanning another kilometer.


    "No good!" Lin Shiming''s heart became anxious again. It was clear that Lu Changming also had Elixirs to restore True Yuan. After flying for so long without depleting his True Yuan, he gave Lin Shiming the impression that he was bing more at ease.


    "I''ll cut him down first!" At this moment, Lin Shiming was also ready to risk everything. Lu Changming changed his expression by the minute,pletely baffling him.


    But he understood one thing from beginning to end, that Lu Changming was running away because he didn''t have the confidence to be sure of defeating him, but he must have some powerful treasures to decide the oue in one move.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming took out the Heavenly Demon Bag and started to release Gang Jian.


    The Tiangang Sword Formation had been destroyed by the Demon Cultivator, and the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation had been ruined by the Corpse Cultivator, so Lin Shiming had no choice but to use the Heavenly Demon Bag to attack.


    As soon as the Heavenly Demon Bag appeared, Lu Changming once again became furiously angry, pointing and ring fiercely!


    This Heavenly Demon Bag was clearly from a disciple of the Spirit Beast Sect from Lu Family, and it was also an heirloom bestowed by their family''s elder to that disciple.


    It had disappeared previously in the Qingyun Mountain Range, but now it seemed obvious that it had fallen into the hands of this young Lin Family member!


    As the Gang Jian wind from the Heavenly Demon Bag blew over, Lu Changming immediately dodged, but while dodging, he threw out another Spirit Talisman.


    As soon as this Spirit Talisman was released, meteorites began to rain down from the sky. Each one was extremelyrge, with torrential mes, and they were densely packed.


    Just as they were about to strike Lin Shiming, a fiery-red monkey appeared on the Spirit Boat the next moment.


    With a flick of its tail, all the approaching meteorites immediately shattered and exploded into ash.


    "This Demonic Beast actually has Strange Fire!" Lu Changming watched the red-haired Demon Monkey''s tail burn with roaring mes and was ecstatic.


    He hadn''t expected Lin Shiming to have such good luck and find such a rare beast.


    In his eyes, Lin Shiming at this moment was something already in his grasp.


    With a wave of his hand and several Spirit Arts executed, the Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword at his feet burst forth with brilliant light, shooting fiercely towards Lin Shiming.


    The Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword was exceptionally fast, reaching Lin Shiming in an instant. Its power was also extremely terrifying. It was the Red-haired Demon Monkey who took out the Profound Spirit Mountain and smashed it fiercely onto the Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword, knocking it off its original course.


    But Lin Shiming could see with his own eyes that the Spirit Formation on the Profound Spirit Mountain had dissipated quite a lot.


    This was enough to show the might of Lu Changming''s Supreme Grade Magic Sword, and at once, Lin Shiming also began to covet it.


    Missing with one sword strike, Lu Changming decisively chose to flee again.


    Lin Shiming pursued once more, and besides the Heavenly Demon Bag, he also controlled three Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Swords, attacking Lu Changming.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey, as well, kept using the Profound Spirit Mountain to bash at Lu Changming. However, Lu Changming took out several Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Talismans. Although they didn''t affect Lin Shiming''s attacks much, they still hindered Lin Shiming''s pursuit.


    Having been pursued for so long, Lin Shiming was bing increasingly anxious, but at the same time, he grew more cautious.


    He reminded himself countless times that his opponent still had many tricks up his sleeve.


    In the air, unable to use the Wood Vine Technique, he chose this time to throw out the Golden Luan Eagle.


    The Second Rankte-stage Golden Luan Eagle naturally seemedughable in Lu Changming''s eyes, but at the same time, Lu Changming thought Lin Shiming must be annoyed that the Golden Luan Eagle had revealed him.


    "Go!" Lin Shiming formed hand seals once again, and this time the hand seals were extremelyplex. The gang wind from the Heavenly Demon Bag began to surge like a sea of wind, pressing down on Lu Changming.


    "Useless!" Lu Changming scoffed with disdain, then took out a gourd that was a Third Rank Superior Grade magic artifact and sucked in all the gang wind.


    However, the next moment his expression drastically changed, as he had sucked in two zombies along with the wind.


    One beast zombie and one green-haired zombie.


    The two zombies became even more frenzied the moment they were sucked towards the gourd, tearing apart the absorbing spirit light, having just been absorbed by the Heavenly Demon Bag. How could they contentedly allow this gourd to absorb them now?


    Moreover, although the gourd could absorb spells and release them, it did not have a suppression formation against living beings like spirit beasts and zombies.


    Instantly, the rampaging zombies smashed open the gourd and lunged at Lu Changming to bite him.


    The two spirit zombies, after all,cked a bit in spirit intelligence. Seeing Lu Changming using the gourd to absorb them, they naturally thought he was in cahoots with Lin Shiming.


    "Are you a spy from the Corpse Refining Sect?" Lu Changming''s brow furrowed deeply, and he nearly cursed out loud in his heart.


    What sort of person was this Lin Shiming? It would be eptable if he only had powerful spirit beasts, but he also had such formidable personal spirit zombies.


    At this moment, Lu Changming also felt a great hatred. Had it not been for escaping by self-detonating all his spirit beasts at Yunjing Mountain, he wouldn''t be fighting alone at this instant.


    As a Spirit Controller, most of hisbat powery in his spirit beasts. Otherwise, even against a Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator, he would not fear a battle.


    Lin Shiming saw Lu Changming''s expression clearly and breathed a sigh of relief as the two spirit zombies attacked Lu Changming together. He didn''t have the ability to control the two spirit zombies; at this moment, he could only trust in a desperate attempt to survive.


    If the spirit zombies hade at him together, he would have had no choice but to flee.


    Now, his trump cards were few, while Lu Changming certainly still had some left.


    Sure enough, when the Red-haired Demon Monkey along with the two spirit zombies and Lin Shiming all confronted Lu Changming, thetter''s Superior Grade magic artifact was joined by another piece.


    That was a Superior Grade copper ring.


    With the Red-haired Demon Monkey constantly pressuring him with the Supreme Grade Spirit Sword from Profound Spirit Mountain, the Superior Grade copper ring suddenly wrapped tightly around the two spirit zombies, leaving thempletely immobilized.


    The remaining gourd artifact flew out once more, and Lu Changming leapt fiercely onto the gourd.


    In the next instant, the gourd rushed at Lin Shiming with terrifying speed.


    A Third Rank Supreme Grade artifact that could fly!


    Lin Shiming was suddenly shocked. He had never anticipated that this gourd artifact was not the Superior Grade artifact it had seemed at first but a Supreme Grade artifact.


    As Lu Changming closed in, the lid of the gourd flung open, and the very next moment, countless red sands flew out.


    "Wind Fire Star Sands!" Lin Shiming eximed in shock again.


    Each grain of sand shimmered with starlight and was diffuse with mes; even as ordinary materials, they were Third Rank materials, and now that they were refined into a Supreme Grade gourd artifact, they were nothing short of a devastating weapon with no solution.


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 Chapter 165 Chapter 166 Narrow Victory

    Lin Shiming''s pupils shrank involuntarily when he saw this.


    In numerous simtions in his mind, he had never anticipated that Lu Changming would possess such a terrifying magic artifact.


    In a critical moment, Lin Shiming violently pulled out a Xue Sha Thunder.


    He threw it toward Lu Changming.


    The Xue Sha Thunder was his own, given to him by his seventh great uncle, and all were thrown onto the ten son canopy.


    However, when the Xue Sha Thunder exploded, it waspletely enveloped by the ming wind and stardust. A muffled sound of thunder arose but ultimately faded into silence, and the bloody glow was also quiet.


    The horrifying stardust and Lu Changming still violently shot towards him.


    Unstoppable, and unavoidable!


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey threw the Profound Spirit Mountain, and Lin Shiming threw out countless magic swords, controlling them to self-destruct.


    But they still couldn''t st through the wind and stardust, and the gourd at this moment violently spewed out several streams of me magic.


    The Profound Spirit Mountain was also sted away, and the Red-haired Demon Monkey''s tail whipped fiercely, bing engulfed in mes in an instant and transforming into a giant fire monkey.


    Yet it was besieged by Lu Changming''s supreme grade magic swords.


    The supreme grade magic swords didn''t y the Red-haired Demon Monkey because in Lu Changming''s eyes, the demon monkey was also something he had in the bag.


    At such a close distance, Lin Shiming was simply unable to block it.


    In desperation, Lin Shiming could only release all of his swallow spirit ants, a full eight hundred of them.


    Though these swallow spirit ants were still young, each possessed the strength of a Second Rankter stage Demonic Beast, and given the chance to mature and absorb enough spirit patterns and spiritual energy, advancing to the Third Rank was not out of the question.


    As soon as the swallow spirit ants were released, they indeed headed toward the ming wind and stardust. Seeing the stardust, they were not the least bit afraid but instead grew more excited, starting to devour the spirit light that covered the surface of the stardust.


    Though the stardust was ferocious and seemed to form an unbroken chain, there were only about a thousand grains of stardust. Being bitten by eight hundred swallow spirit ants like this dimmed the starlight and greatly diminished the power of wind and fire.


    Lu Changming was instantly enraged, and the supreme grade gourd spewed out arge amount of fire to burn the swallow spirit ants.


    The Second Rank spirit ants were still too fragile, instantly burned to death inrge numbers.


    Lin Shiming then took out the remaining Tiangang Sword Formation and the Nine Heavens Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, releasing them violently toward the supreme grade gourd, the next moment, detonating them all at once.


    The Tiangang Sword Formation was alright, but after the self-destruction of the swords from the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, Lin Shiming was the first to spit out a mouthful of blood.


    And at that time, the ming wind and stardust were scattered, no longer able to form a fighting force.


    Lu Changming''s face looked extremely ugly at this moment; he had not expected that killing a Foundation Establishment early stage cultivator would have so many variables, but fortunately, he still had the supreme grade gourd itself, which was a supreme grade magic artifact that surged with countless mes.


    Lin Shiming also fiercely released countless spirit roots, which were the Purple Gold Vines he had nted during battle, infused with spirit energy.


    The Golden Spear Spirit Roots werepletely destroyed by the mes, and the final wave of fire violently rushed onto Lin Shiming''s body, sting all of the Defense Talismans and Spirit Shields into fine pieces.


    At the crucial moment, the Golden Luan Eagle blocked in front of Lin Shiming, shielding him from most of the mes.


    Burned clean, but the aftermath still hammered Lin Shiming.


    Lu Changming finally heaved a sigh of relief at this moment.


    But before he could recover, the sound of a Spirit Drum suddenly erupted.


    Violently jolting his mind.


    It was the Shocking God Drum.


    "Useless!" Lu Changming spoke contemptuously, and at his neck, a Spirit Talisman that defended against divine sense attacks also disintegrated into paper and vanished.


    However, at that moment, a dazzling golden light erupted.


    Out of nowhere, a huge golden sickle suddenly mmed down onto Lu Changming''s forehead.


    Lu Changming''s face changed drastically. He tried to control the gourd magic artifact, but with insufficient True Yuan, he could only throw out several Spirit Talismans. But how could the Spirit Talismans stop the Golden Winged Mantis?


    In an instant, he was cleaved in two, and the gourd fell to the ground.


    Lin Shiming crawled out of the dirt hole, his body charred, enduring severe pain. First, he used the Heavenly Demon Bag to collect the two spirit zombies, then he gathered Lu Changming''s Storage Bag and the dropped magic artifacts, and finally looked at the remaining eighty or so devouring ants with a pained expression.


    The devouring ants that he had acquired with great difficulty were now reduced to just over eighty. Those ants relied on their numbers, and now he could only wait for the ants to mature before using Seduction Demon Pills to encourage them to breed again.


    He then took out a handful of Green Lotus seeds, threw them into his mouth, summoned the Golden Winged Mantis, and leapt onto its back with a thud.


    Immediately, the Red-haired Demon Monkey released mes, turning the entire earth into scorched earth, leaving no other traces of battle.


    After doing all this, a monkey and a mantis dashed fiercely in the opposite direction.


    Having run tens of thousands of miles, almost beyond the range of a Foundation Establishment cultivator''s Divine Sense, Lin Shimingmanded the Golden Winged Mantis to burrow into the ground, and the Red-haired Demon Monkey was put into the Spirit Beast Bag.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    After diving thousands of miles deep, he stopped to consume the Green Lotus seeds, barely stabilizing his injuries. But the terrifying internal injuries were still erupting. Had he not practiced the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique, he would have almost certainly not survived the mes.


    Even so, he was now not only depleted of True Yuan, but his body was also full of internal injuries. He was no match for even a Qi Cultivator at this point, let alone a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Without dwelling on it, Lin Shiming immediately started to recover and heal by holding Superior Grade Spirit Stones in his hands.


    Finally, he retrieved the Qinglian Taoist Robe from the Golden Winged Mantis, enveloped his entire body in it, and began to seclude himself to heal his wounds.


    What he didn''t know was that, at the ce where he had killed Lu Changming, a Foundation Establishment cultivator stood on the scorched ground, his face filled with anger and disbelief.


    "Damn Demon Cultivator, to have such a Strange Fire of heaven and earth!"


    "Lu Changming must have been killed!" The Foundation Establishment cultivator sighed, no longer searching, and looked behind him, where Ye Mingqiu and Lin Xianzhi stood, alongside Lin Gang.


    However, Xu Dai was not present.


    At this moment, Lin Gang was trembling and suddenly knelt down, crying and begging the Foundation Establishment cultivator for mercy.


    "Elder Chen, everything was forced upon me by Brother Xu. I had no idea about any of this!" Lin Gang kept saying.


    But this so-called Elder Chen, the celestial hermit, turned his back and walked away.


    He then reached out into the void, and Lin Gang was suddenly in Elder Chen''s hand, as if grasping a chick.


    "Whether you knew or not, I''ll find out with one check. Did you really think that with the Sect''s Jade Book, I couldn''t probe your Divine Sense?" The celestial hermit said, and then took out a Purple Spirit Talisman, pressing it onto Lin Gang''s forehead.


    After that, all the images converged into a Yu Shu.


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    The next moment, with a fierce press of his hand, Lin Gang exploded in the void, bursting into pieces, blood sttering everywhere.


    "We have failed in our duty to guard the mountain. Please, Elder Chen, grant us atonement!" Almost simultaneously with the explosion, Lin Xianzhi and Ye Mingqiu, along with the few remaining cultivators, all knelt on the ground, their faces filled with panic.


    "This incident is serious due to Xu Dai and Lin Gang''s failure to report. They privately kept a Superior Grade Spirit Stone vein, a crime most heinous!"


    "Although you were unaware, losing the mine is also a grave offense. Everyone go back to Heavenly River State and join the front lines, keep fighting until you have killed ten cultivators of the same rank!"


    "Yes, thank you Elder Chen for your forgiveness!" Lin Xianzhi and the others knocked their heads on the ground once again.


    "Elder Chen, I have a favor to ask. I have a junior who was also among the first to discover the attack by the Heavenly Demon Sect''s Demon Cultivator. I hope you can take this affection into consideration and help look for his whereabouts!"


    "If he''s been hurt, don''t get your hopes up. There''s no trace of any cultivator within ten thousand miles. Go back to Heavenly River State. I need to return to Yunling Mountain and mine the remaining Superior Grade Spirit Stones," said the celestial hermit, showing no concern for Lin Shiming, a cultivator in the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Instead, he was pained over the Superior Grade Spirit Stones. A small Superior Grade Spirit Stone vein could have had a thousand Superior Grade Spirit Stones, but in the vein, there were now only a little over two hundred left. They had been ravaged by the Golden Corpse Child and Old Demon Chen, along with other junior Foundation Establishment cultivators, destroying most of it.


    If he hadn''t arrived in time, not even the remaining two hundred would be left.


    "Furthermore, issue an announcement in Heavenly River State''s front line: Capture Chen Yunli and the Golden Corpse Child¡ªthese two Demon Cultivators at all costs!"

 Chapter 166 Chapter 167 Green Abyss Iron

    Near Yunjing Mountain in Heavenly River State, Lin Xianzhi did not immediately return to Heavenly River City. Instead, he began to search meticulously in this vicinity.


    He didn''t believe Lin Shiming would show up, yet he was extremely afraid that something had happened to Lin Shiming.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The contradiction and anxiety in his heart made his face age even more rapidly.


    The side effects of Renshui Geng Metal Art had be stronger, and he estimated that he only had about twenty more years to live. To think, he was just over one hundred sixty years old at the moment, while the lifespan limit for a Foundation Establishment Cultivator was two hundred fifty years.


    In a mountain cave, Lin Xianzhi found Lin Houyuan.


    A group of Qi Cultivators were with Lin Houyuan.


    For the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators, it was unnecessary to chase after Qi Cultivators. Their whereabouts would naturally be exposed after the escape of the Foundation Establishment Cultivators. Instead, killing higher-level cultivators could potentially yield more spiritual objects.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Houyuan raised his head to look at Lin Xianzhi, also very excited.


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    But seeing Lin Xianzhi''s increasingly aged face, like seeing Lin Yuqi back in the day, filled him with a deep sense of gloom.


    His excited heart chilled by three more degrees.


    And thinking of the fallen cultivators of the family made his face even more somber.


    He felt too ashamed to say it to the Seventh Great-Uncle, yet he also thought of Lin Shiming.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, didn''t Shiminge with you?" asked Lin Houyuan, his voice bing smaller and smaller towards the end.


    He naturally saw the discouragement on Lin Xianzhi''s face. When Lin Shiming was around, he could always see a slightly content smile on Lin Xianzhi''s face.


    That kind of pride and rxation was utterly missing from Lin Xianzhi''s face at the moment.


    "Shiming broke through alone, and we''re still looking for him!" Lin Xianzhi responded with a somber tone as well.


    Lin Xianzhi gave a quick nce to the surviving Lin Family members and cultivators, then sighed again in frustration. This defense battle was definitely the greatest loss in the history of the Lin Family, with almost half of the Qi Cultivationte-stage family heads meeting their demise.


    However, key family members like Lin Shiyi, Lin Houwei, Lin Yuqing, Lei Xuan, and others were still alive, if more or less injured.


    "Hou Yuan, take the n members back to Heavenly River City. I will continue searching for three more days!" Lin Xianzhi spoke again and then left the cave, resolutely setting foot once more on the journey to search.


    Since the chaotic battle at Yunjing Mountain, he had not yet started to heal his wounds, nor had he properly stopped to recover his True Yuan or suppress his internal injuries.


    ¡­


    In an unknown ce underground, after what seemed like a long time, Lin Shiming opened his eyes. Now his True Yuan could circte within his body, not like at the beginning when he could only rely on the body of a Body Refining Cultivator to perform breathing techniques to recuperate from his injuries.


    At this moment, the Green Lotus seeds also started to take effect, slowly healing the injuries in his body.


    But his head still felt excruciatingly painful.


    The self-destruct of the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation had almost injured his Divine Sense as well.


    Fortunately, with the Split Spirit Decision, he could cultivate to recover a bit; otherwise, he wouldn''t even be able to use his Divine Sense to explore his surroundings.


    The Golden Winged Mantis stilly beside him, its golden insect body covered with six thinyers of golden wings. Two golden limbs were stretched out in front of it, motionless.


    Seeing Lin Shiming finally open his eyes, the Golden Winged Mantis began to chirp excitedly, a hint of joy in its noise.


    Its triangr head wanted to nuzzle against Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming reached out his hand to stroke the head of the Golden Winged Mantis.


    This time, it was all thanks to the Golden Winged Mantis. At that moment, he was truly at his wit''s end¡ªif it hadn''t been for the terrifying speed and attack of the Golden Winged Mantis, coupled with the concealing effect of the Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    Even if Lu Changming''s True Yuan was reduced to less than one-tenth its original level, and his Divine Sense was suppressed by the Shocking God Drum, he wouldn''t have been able to kill Lu Changming in the end.


    And the consequence of Lu Changming not dying was that he himself would undoubtedly be doomed.


    At the thought of this, Lin Shiming still couldn''t help but feel a chill of fear.


    The battle that day had been perilously fierce.


    Especially after the battle, when he waspletely out of fighting strength, fortunately, the Golden Winged Mantis stood guard for him. Only the Golden Winged Mantis was his most trusted ally; its strength and loyalty, as well as its disposition to avoid trouble, were not something the Red-haired Demon Monkey couldpare with. This was also why he had recalled the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    After all, the Golden Winged Mantis had hatched from an insect egg under his care, whereas for the Red-haired Demon Monkey, he couldn''t help but be slightly wary.


    Lin Shiming took out some Beast Nurturing Pills and Spirit Beast meat to feed the Golden Winged Mantis before taking out a set of formation, covering a hundred meters around him and opening up three or four stone chambers.


    Once everything was properly arranged, Lin Shiming continued his cultivation to recover.


    A long time passed, and Lin Shiming had already lost track of time¡ªa month, two months, possibly even longer.


    With an exhtion of a breath of turbid air, the True Yuan qi contained in the Purple Wood Heart Sutra filled his entire body, and Lin Shiming''s previous injuries finally healedpletely.


    At this moment, he once again felt the power of the Wood Attribute Techniques, which had remarkable effects on injuries and recovery.


    His Divine Sense, too, had fully recovered under the cultivation of the Split Spirit Decision, and he even felt that it had be sharper.


    The surprises didn''t stop there. When Lin Shiming inspected his inner body with his Divine Sense, he discovered that his True Yuan had be more condensed.


    After his Foundation Establishment breakthrough, his True Yuan was inevitably somewhat tenuous, but this battle had unexpectedly caused his True Yuan to solidify.


    It is known that for most Foundation Establishment Cultivators, it would take at least ten years, or even twenty years.


    Like Lin Houyuan, Lin Shiming''s father, who had broken through Foundation Establishment more than a decade ago, still had not fully condensed his True Yuan. He was unable to cultivate to the peak of the early stage of Foundation Establishment, not to mention breaking through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    And at this moment, Lin Shiming had only just broken through Foundation Establishment for less than six years.


    This also meant that if he was willing to engage in arduous cultivation, he would be able to break through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment within the next few years.


    However, Lin Shiming didn''t rush to break through immediately. Not to mention that the Qingxuan Sect might be suspicious and figures like Lin Xianzhi and other family elders might worry, just the fact that he had made such a swift breakthrough would require a good exnation, especially to the Qingxuan Sect.


    Leaving the vein, his Storage Bag had corpses used for Qi Cultivation, and it was evident that a Superior Grade Spirit Stone had aided the breakthrough. In the worst-case scenario, he could face soul searching, or at the very least an Inquiry Spirit Talisman, but neither was something he wished to deal with.


    Havingpleted his cultivation, Lin Shiming finally had the time to sort through his spoils of war.


    It was important to note that during this event, ny percent of his spirit ants had perished, leaving only eighty-one; the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was destroyed, the Tiangang Sword Formation too, and all of the Xue Sha Thunder had been used up, resulting in extreme losses.


    Lin Shiming first took out four Demonic Cultivators'' Storage Bags.


    Within the four Storage Bags, he found five hundred thousand Inferior Grade Spirit Stones, over a hundred pounds of Qingming Iron.


    Over a hundred pounds of Qingming Iron was clearly plundered from the Heavenly River State''s Spirit Iron mines previously by the cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect. Qingming Iron is a Third Rank material and it is among the premium ones at that. These hundred-plus pounds of Qingming Iron are worth at least seven hundred thousand Spirit Stones.


    That is to say, just the gains in spiritual materials and Spirit Stones amounted to one million Inferior Grade Spirit Stones.


    Beyond that, Lin Shiming also obtained five Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts, two Third Rank Superior Grade Magic Artifacts, and a Third Rank scapegoat effigy.


    Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts, to Lin Shiming at this moment, were of coursecking, but the Superior Grade Magic Artifacts were the tainted gourd Magic Artifact and another Demonic de Magic Artifact, it''s a pity that both required the practice of Demonic Path Techniques.

 Chapter 167 Chapter 168 Big Gourd, Small Gourd

    After checking the storage bags of the four demon cultivators, Lin Shiming took out the storage bag of the Corpse Refining Sect Cultivator, which he had already opened before.


    There were one thousand Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones and thirty Superior Grade Spirit Stones inside.


    Just from the Spirit Stones, the profit had reached four million Inferior Grade Spirit Stones.


    At this moment, even Lin Shiming, who had been prepared, couldn''t help but take a deep breath.


    Such a windfall, even an ordinary Foundation Establishment Great Perfection cultivator might not have it, right?


    It should be noted that even Purple Mansion cultivators use Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones as their circting currency, yet at this moment, he already possessed a full thousand Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones and thirty Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    Apart from the Spirit Stones, the storage bag of the Corpse Refining Sect Cultivator basically had no magic artifacts, instead, there were dozens of coffins, some containing recently deceased cultivators, as well as half-refined Iron Corpses and Blood Corpses.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming cremated all the unrefined and half-refined corpses on the spot and buried them.


    Although he did not object to refining corpses, he still felt a repulsion towards using human corpses for Corpse Refining; as for those that had been turned into refined corpses, he could bring them back to the family. The family had its own Corpse Refining techniques, even if they were only of Yellow Grade, it still provided more possibilities for Qi Cultivators.


    If a Cultivator Family wants to grow, naturally it must also diversify, so as to discover more talents.


    After dealing with the corpses, Lin Shiming found several Jade Slips, most of which contained records of how to refine corpses and how to temper their bodies.


    After browsing through them, there were no Cultivation Techniques for Corpse Refining, but there were some simple Spirit Arts to control refined corpses, and he also found out why that cultivator had two life-bound refined corpses.


    The Second Life Corpse Secret Technique!


    This Secret Technique, simr to the Heavenly Wood Spirit Cultivation Secret Technique, also allowed a cultivator to possess the functions of a main and secondary Spirit tform, but the main use of the secondary Spirit tform wasn''t as powerful as the Heavenly Wood Spirit''s, and could only be used to cultivate refined corpses.


    Still, even so, it was a rather powerful Secret Technique.


    Lin Shiming took all the various Jade Slips, as for the remaining bottles and jars, he didn''t pay much attention as he mostly didn''t recognize them.


    Finally, Lin Shiming took a deep breath and took out Lu Changming''s storage bag.


    The first things that appeared before his eyes were three magic artifacts: a Third Rank Supreme Grade magic sword, the Laiyun Sword, a Purple Gold Gourd, and the Wind-Fire Star Sand inside the Gourd.


    In addition, there was a Golden Iron Hoop, two Supreme Grade magic artifacts, and one Third-Rank Superior Grade magic artifact.


    For Lin Shiming, this was undoubtedly an unexpected surprise, given that even his seventh uncle ancestor Lin Xianzhi had spent a vast amount of resources tomission an Artifact Refining Master within the Qingxuan Sect to refine a Third Rank Supreme Grade magic sword, which was his only such magic artifact.


    And now, he had two Third Rank Supreme Grade magic swords.


    Lin Shiming first picked up the Laiyun Sword. The Laiyun Sword was three feet long and entirely blue, with cloud-shaped Spirit Patterns engraved upon it, and its de was extremely sharp, emitting dazzling white light.


    He tentatively touched the de with his finger, only to see a trail of blood appear the next moment as fresh blood flowed out.


    "What a fine sword!" Lin Shiming murmured, and then he infused it with his True Yuan. After putting in a great deal of True Yuan, Lin Shiming found that the Laiyun Sword still remained immovable.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but smile bitterly, realizing that in the short term he wouldn''t be able to wield the Supreme Grade magic artifact.


    Lin Shiming then turned his attention to the Purple Gold Gourd. The Purple Gold Gourd was fiery red in color, but its surface was iid with arge number of Purple Gold Spirit Patterns, making it appear even more noble as Lin Shiming probed it with his Divine Sense.


    The next moment, he suddenly had an epiphany.


    This Gourd was divided into an upper and lower part, with the smaller upper part being an Intermediate Grade magic artifact, while therger lower part was a Supreme Grade magic artifact.


    This was why at first he thought the Purple Gold Gourd was a Superior Grade Magic Artifact, only to almost be killed on the spot by Lu Changming.


    This move was estimated to be undetectable even by someone at the Perfection stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Lin Shiming, both terrified and amazed by such an artifact,


    was also extremely pleased, although its only shoring was that therge gourd used for flying was a wind-attribute Magic Artifact, and the small gourd was a fire-attribute attack Magic Artifact, with slightly insufficient attack power.


    But fortunately, the Purple Gold Gourd contained wind and fire star sand.


    This kind of star sand would even tempt a Purple Mansion cultivator.


    Lin Shiming opened the gourd lid, and the wind and fire star sand continuously circted between therge and the small gourds, replenishing the previously depleted wind and fire energies.


    "The one who thought up this Magic Artifact is truly a genius!" Lin Shiming felt very astounded at this moment.


    With the Magic Artifact''sbined wind and fire, the wind and fire star sand could only get stronger.


    The value of this Purple Gold Gourd was definitely higher than that of the Laiyun Sword.


    Suppressing the joy in his heart, Lin Shiming constantly reminded himself that neither of the two Magic Artifacts could be used in front of others.


    Then he looked at the Monster Binding Ring: its function was simr to the Heavenly Demon Bag ¨C also a type of suppression Intermediate Grade Magic Artifact. The only shoringpared to the Heavenly Demon Bag was that it couldn''t contain living creatures.


    However, the binding effect of the Monster Binding Ring was stronger. If one was not careful, the Heavenly Demon Bag could be severed with a single sword strike, but the Monster Binding Ring would not.


    Lin Shiming also carefully stored away the Monster Binding Ring.


    Finally, he looked at the other items in the Storage Bag: there were only a hundred thousand Inferior Grade Spirit Stones, plus a thousand Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones, Spirit Pills and Spirit Talismans were nearly exhausted, and there were weirdly no Cultivation Techniques or Secret Manuals to be found, which led Lin Shiming to find a strange sheepskin map.


    The terrain marks drawn on the sheepskin map were all unfamiliar to him, so he could only put it away forter study, or wait for a system prompt to appear.


    Afterwards, Lin Shiming took out the remaining eighty-one gluttonous ants, each now the size of a baby''s fist. However, after devouring the wind and fire star sand, these spirit ants started to develop some fiery red star spots on their backs.


    The eighty-one spirit ants had also be extremely ferocious, constantly emitting sharp, fierce noises.


    It was clear that after devouring the spirit radiance from the wind and fire star sand, some mutations had appeared. But he didn''t know whether these mutations were beneficial.


    However, feeling that the spirit ants'' ferocity had increased and they had grown somewhatrger in a short period of time, he put his mind at ease.


    He took out a small basin of Third Rank Spiritual Liquid for the spirit ants to devour.


    At the same time, he also performed the Spirit Contract again to reinforce the bond.


    After organizing the gluttonous ants, Lin Shiming began refining the Magic Artifacts, starting with the small gourd of the Purple Gold Gourd, and then refining the Monster Binding Ring.


    At this moment, without the Tiangang Sword Formation or the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, he still felt a bit unconfident.


    After the refinements, another three days passed, and Lin Shiming had finally stabilizedpletely. He spread his Divine Sense all around, looking in every direction.


    He quickly reached the surface and, sensing no danger, took out an Earth Escape Talisman to begin escaping from underground.


    With his Divine Sense fully extended and not detecting any demon cultivators, he finally breathed a sigh of relief. He had been genuinely worried that, during his recovery period, Heavenly River State might have fallen, making this a stronghold for the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect ¨C in which case, his escape would have been much more difficult.


    After recalling the direction to Heavenly River City, Lin Shiming also took out a Third Rank Superior Grade flying boat and set off in the direction of Heavenly River City.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 168 Chapter 169 The Great Battle

    Heavenly River City, a vast river that thrusts deep into half of the Heavenly River Continent.


    The river''s waters roared mightily, with a tremendous force visible far away, asionally sshing up white foam¡ªthis was the renowned Tongtian River within the borders of Zhao Kingdom.


    The Tongtian River originated from the entire Demon Beast Mountains, which had even more demonic beasts and was far more terrifying than the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    Therefore, the source of the Tongtian River was untraceable, but its destination was known: it cut across Zhao Kingdom, Chu Country, and flowed directly into the sea.


    And it was also the Tongtian River that delineated the borders between Heavenly River State of Zhao Kingdom and Chu Country.


    To the west of the river, Heavenly River City loomed like a wild behemoth, upying the strategic Heavenly River fortress, while the east was dominated by the territories of demon cultivators and demonic sects.


    As the demonic sect''s army pressed on, it was the Tongtian River they were pressuring, attacking Heavenly River City. If Heavenly River City fell, the entire Heavenly River State would have no strongholds left.


    At this moment, on the Tongtian River, many cultivators stood upon the city walls, gazing out over the river, their eyes filled with gloom and worry. The onlyfort was the beast ring at the city''s highest peak.


    That was the magical treasure of the Golden Core ancestor of the Spirit Beast Sect, Heavenly Beast True Person¡ªthe Beast Taming Ring.


    In a corner of the city wall, cultivators of the Lin Family gathered together.


    Lin Xianzhi sat at the forefront; his face still bore the countenance of a young man, but his white hair began to split at the ends, dry and whitened, and his eyes revealed his advanced age.


    Next to him, Lin Houyuan was also silent; the family had lost too many people in this national war.


    However, what troubled them the most was the disappearance of Lin Shiming.


    They were even beginning to regret letting Shiminge here; with his talent, he could''ve stayed in the family to quietly cultivate for a hundred years and surely reach the Purple Mansion.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Lin Xianzhi remembered the Minor Divine Ability Tree, the Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree, but at this moment, all of this seemed insignificant.


    "Houyuan, Uncle Qi, Shiming will surely be alright. This old man here hasn''t died yet; how could he possibly!" Lin Yuqing spoke up first from the side.


    At this moment, there were only a handful of Qi Cultivators left in the Lin Family, and they all nodded in agreement.


    To the cultivators of the ''Hou'' generation, Shiming was like a g they had watched grow from the very beginning, while to those of the ''Shi'' generation, Lin Shiming was forever the banner leading them forward.


    "Hmm, I have already imed the lives of eight Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators. In the next battle, if I kill two more, that will buy me another two months to search for Shiming!"


    Lin Xianzhi looked out at the Tongtian River, and in his heart, he oddly began to look forward to the uing assault by the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    And Lin Houyuan clenched his fist tightly, his own strength insufficient, but he still muttered softly in a voice only he could hear.


    Two, I''mcking eight!


    Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei at this moment also couldn''t help clenching their fists. They naturally knew that Lin Shiming had met with trouble while protecting them. If they possessed the cultivation level of Foundation Establishment at this moment, even if they couldn''t change the oue, they could still lend their efforts.


    As the members of Lin Family took the time to rest, war drums sounded from afar in the high skies.


    As expected, the Heavenly Demon Sect wasunching another attack. A wave of ck mist spread towards the Tongtian River¡ªten meters, a hundred meters!


    It quickly covered the entire surface of the Tongtian River and even pushed toward Heavenly River City.


    And on the Heavenly River City''s side, one could see numerous array gs beginning to interweave and manifest. Under the dazzling spirit light, they turned into brilliant glows that shone directly upon the surface of the Heavenly River, clearing the ck fog and revealing the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators donned in ck robes within.


    Many patches of the ck fog were directly dispersed, exposing the ck-robed Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators inside.


    In the distance, figures carrying coffins began to appear!


    The people atop the city walls were suddenly filled with rage¡ªthese damnable members of the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators, one practicing on the essence souls of cultivators and the other on the bodies of cultivators to refine their vile crafts, thoroughly hated by all cultivators from Zhao Kingdom!


    "Everyone, quickly get to the city walls and prepare to defend against the enemy!" Apanied by the sound of war drums, an old man dressed in a green python robe flew into the air. With his roar, all the cultivators in Heavenly River City, each holding a magic artifact, flew towards the walls, ready to sally forth and attack the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators at a moment''s notice.


    At the green python-robed elder''smand, suddenly countless Demonic Pythons appeared in the sky. Among them were Second Rankte-stage Spirit Pythons and Third Rank Spirit Pythons, swarming densely like a tide of snakes heading towards the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators.


    At the forefront of the Heavenly Demon Sect was also a Purple Mansion Hermit. He held a Heavenly Demon Banner in his hand and, with a coldugh, made a beckoning gesture.


    Immediately, the ck fog grew even thicker. In the next moment, numerous demon heads flew back and forth within the fog, and as the snake tide drew near, the demon heads went into a frenzy, swallowing up the Demonic Pythons.


    The Spirit Pythons and demon heads went back and forth, both sides fighting fiercely and with rage. Both sides flung themselves into the high skies and directly began a Purple Mansion decisive battle.


    Almost at the same time as the two entered the high skies, several Purple Mansion Cultivators appeared in the sky and began to engage in fiercebat with the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators.


    Meanwhile, the Foundation Establishment Perfection Cultivators of the Spirit Beast Sect instantly took overmand below.


    This kind of great battle had been experienced countless times; every cultivator present was adept and familiar with the drill, and none of those who had survived were mediocre.


    The Lin Family kept to a position neither at the front nor too far behind, with Lin Xianzhi leading the charge. His sword light shed forth, and before even ying a single Foundation Establishment Demon Cultivator, he saw that from the Heavenly Demon Sect''s side, a Direct Disciple had emerged, locking his gaze onto Lin Xianzhi.


    "Houyuan, take care of the Qi Cultivators of our family!" Lin Xianzhi instructed Lin Houyuan with a shout and then rushed forward.


    Lin Houyuan nodded. In this battlefield, the Purple Mansion was where the mightiest shed in the high skies, a thousand meters above, while Foundation Establishment was the main fray, taking ce a hundred meters in the air.


    And the Qi Refining Cultivators were basically fighting on formations at ground level, mostly casting spells from a distance, with even the Body Cultivators generally choosing long-range spellcasting and not entering the Demon Cultivator formation.


    But don''t think for a moment that the Cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect would really pair off evenly¡ªwhenever they spotted good material for corpse refining or essence soul material, the Purple Mansion Cultivators from both sects would sometimes attack Qi Cultivators.


    This was also why Lin Xianzhi had told Lin Houyuan to look after the Lin Family''s Qi Cultivators.


    For the Cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect, such urrences were asmon as daily meals, and it was one of the reasons why the Lin Family suffered heavy losses.


    Even Lei Xuan at this moment had been instructed by Lin Houyuan not to reveal his lightning attribute Spirit Root.


    The Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family were also well prepared in a standard manner.


    Instead, it was Lin Houyuan who attracted the attention of a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Cultivator¡ªan individual of the Heavenly Demon Sect, holding a Heavenly Demon Banner that was amon essential for almost every one of their Cultivators. However, his banner was clearly a Third Rank Magical Treasure.


    He had also just recently broken through to the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment.


    "Esteemed Zhao Kingdom Cultivator, my demon banner has just beenpleted. Within it lies the path to immortality; would you consider it?" The Demon Cultivator said with a strangeugh, then waved his banner. Instantly, three Third Rank Early Stage demon heads surged out from within it and charged towards Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Houyuan''s face grew solemn as he drew several Third Rank Intermediate Grade Flying Swords, but as only a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator, he found even the Demon Cultivator alone tough to handle, not to mention dealing with the three Foundation Establishment demon heads that were proving to be extremely troublesome.

 Chapter 170 Rushing Over

    "Fellow Daoist, why resist stubbornly? Isn''t the path to longevity a good one?" the demon cultivator ridiculed continuously, trying to disrupt Lin Houyuan''s train of thought.


    Lin Houyuan''s Cultivation Technique was merely a Yellow Rank Technique, and his True Yuan was not well-refined; at this moment, controlling three Third Rank Intermediate Grade magic swords, he was already struggling and could only keep retreating.


    At this time, none of the other Foundation Establishment Cultivators seemed to intend toe to his aid.


    They were family cultivators on this side, most of whom had been conscripted by the Sect, all only looking out for themselves, who woulde to provide assistance?


    If it were before Lin Shiming''s disappearance, the Lin Family would have done the same¡ªthe little merit from killing a demon cultivator was not enough to justify the risk of being targeted by a Purple Mansion cultivator of the demonic path.


    Lin Houyuan could only feel a surge of despair, hoping to y ten Early Stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, but unexpectedly, a Middle Stage Foundation Establishment demon cultivator had shown up, clearly after his spirit and soul.


    "Are all demon cultivators so long-winded? If you want Lin''s head, thene and get it through your ability!" Lin Houyuan was also enraged, Middle Stage against Early Stage, and still so full of tricks; it truly angered him!


    "Hehe, very well!" the demon cultivator let out a strangeugh, but suddenly, three demon heads converged from within the demon banner, forming a Third Rank middle-stage demon head that instantly overshadowed all with its demonic might.


    A massive ck face materialized in the void, and then revealed fangs wrapped in ck mist, viciously biting towards Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Houyuan''s three swords struck out but were instantly sent flying by three streams of ck energy spewed from the demon head''s mouth.


    Lin Houyuan then hurriedly released various Defense Talismans to form Spirit Shield and Spirit Armor, yet they were easily perforated by the demon head.


    Apanied by maniacalughter, the demon head opened itsrge maw.


    Lin Houyuan only felt a wave of despair, while the demon cultivator couldn''t help but burst into loudughter, about to im another demon head; these Zhao Kingdom cultivators were simply too naive, all still looking out for themselves at this time.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    However, in the next moment, instead of Lin Houyuan, countless golden Spirit Spears appeared within the big mouth, turning the demon head into a porcupine.


    The demon head instantly vanished into ck smoke, only reforming on the demon cultivator''s banner in the end.


    "Who dares to ruin my good deed!" The demon cultivator couldn''t help but spit out a mouthful of blood. His demon banner was his life-bound Magic Artifact, and when the demon head was destroyed, he naturally suffered injuries.


    "All you demon cultivators bully the weak, don''t you?" The person who arrived was Lin Shiming in a blue robe; his face was full of rage, having just arrived at the battlefield, he saw his father being viciously attacked by a Middle Stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    "Hehe, Fellow Daoist, your words are mistaken. It''s merely the survival of the fittest in the world of Immortal Cultivation.


    If you think it fitting, why not you go kill those demon cultivator brats, and let this old man help you eliminate the wings of your hostile forces?" The demon cultivator said with a sinister chuckle, his gaze roving over Lin Shiming unscrupulously, as if he was still reminiscing about Lin Shiming''s magic artifacts and cultivation techniques.


    But it was Lin Shiming''s first appearance, and the demon cultivator was bound to be disappointed.


    "Shiming!" Lin Houyuan eximed in surprise at the sight of the young man standing before him, feeling incredibly excited. As for life and death, he had long since seen through such matters.


    And as long as Lin Shiming was alive, everything was worth it.


    "Father, leave this demon cultivator to me," Lin Shiming spoke without looking back.


    In that moment, he was a Foundation Establishment Cultivator, the heaven of the Lin Family.


    It was his turn to stand in front!


    Seeing that Lin Shiming still had the intention to catch up, it was simply a disregard for him.


    The angry demon cultivator made his move in an instant. He gripped the demon banner, gave it a shake, and immediately, a ck fog spread out, with hundreds of spirit and soul demon beasts emitting weird, shrillughter.


    Then, one by one, anguished faces appeared on the demon banner; besides that, the ck fog grew denser, oppressive, darkening the skies.


    Upon seeing the demon cultivator''s actions, Lin Shiming just flicked his finger, and immediately countless vines surged forth from the ground once more.


    The purple vines almostpletely covered the ck fog, binding toward the demon cultivator.


    The demon cultivators were greatly shocked, they had seen cultivators with wood attributes before, but a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator summoning such terrifying Third Rank vines in a single breath was unheard of.


    The purple vines then began to emit a purple light, dispersing much of the ck fog and revealing five Third Rank Intermediate Grade white knife artifacts within.


    Each of the five white knives was only three inches in size, but they were full of spiritual might and extremely restrained, not easy to detect.


    If it weren''t for the Purple Gold Vine probing into the ck fog, divine sense wouldn''t have been able to detect them.


    This demon cultivator clearly intended to use this set of flying knife artifacts for a sneak attack.


    The demon head also gathered again, turning into a Third Rank Intermediate Grade demon head, spewing out a ck belt of energy, breaking the vines into pieces.


    Subsequently, the demon head and the five flying knife artifacts together shed toward Lin Shiming.


    However, before the demon head and flying knives could unleash their attack, countless golden lights suddenly burst from beneath the feet of the demon cultivator, quickly engulfing the area below him, and the scene of the demon head impaled by vines reappeared.


    On the spot, he was pierced into pieces of flesh.


    And the demon head,cking the cultivator to drive it, helplessly turned into ck smoke and returned to the demon banner.


    Lin Shiming took the demon banner and flying knives, as well as the demon cultivator''s storage bag, back to Lin Houyuan''s side.


    "Father, you should go check on the family''s Qi Cultivators!" Lin Shiming said, then he saw the worry in Lin Houyuan''s eyes.


    "Don''t worry, father, Shiming won''t be reckless. Even if there''s Purple Mansion Jade Liquid here, it''s not worth the risk!" Lin Shiming continued to exin.


    With Lin Shiming''s words, Lin Houyuan felt reassured.


    In this battlefield, let alone Foundation Establishment cultivators, even Purple Mansion cultivators counted for little. If someone was intent on taking you down, they would usually seed.


    With Lin Shiming''s approval, Lin Houyuan, knowing he was injured, did not go to the Foundation Establishment battlefield but rather to the Qi Cultivation battlefield, joining a battle formation for bombardment.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming continued to roam the Foundation Establishment battlefield, but he didn''t seek out Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators, instead targeting only Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators, using his Purple Gold Vine against them each time. There were not a few cultivators with wood attributes on the battlefield.


    But like Lin Shiming, who could summon them so quickly and with seemingly limitless True Yuan, there certainly wasn''t a second such Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator. Read new adventures at empire


    Half a day passed, and Lin Shiming had in three Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators, including one from the Corpse Refining Sect Cultivation Technique at the same stage.


    All these demon cultivators and Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators were experienced and full of tricks, even Lin Shiming could not help but understand why the Zhao Kingdom had been retreating step by step at the beginning.


    Only now had they barely managed to stabilize, probably because the inexperienced cultivators had perished, and most of the remaining cultivators were also cautious and cunning.


    As dawn broke in the sky, a purple aura emerged from the east. The demon cultivators in the sky also issued the retreat order.


    A group of cultivators quickly returned to the river.


    And Lin Shiming and the others all let out a sigh of relief.


    On this battlefield, every cultivator was under immense pressure, especially the Body Cultivators, as if they performed too well, they would be prime materials for the Corpse Refining Sect or possibly the main demon head for a demon cultivator''s banner.


    Lin Shiming had already been controlling himself as much as possible, but he couldn''t conceal all his strength. Having escaped from Yunjing Mountain and having lingered for two years, upon his return, he was bound to be interrogated. If he appeared too ipetent, he might be subjected to a soul search.


    Performing a little better,bined with the Family Jade Book, he might be examined with an Inquiry Spirit Talisman, and now, involving Lu Changming and Superior Grade Spirit Stones, this moment was particrly troubling to him.

 Chapter 171 Asking the Spirit

    As the troops were being called back, a loudugh was heard as Lin Xianzhi descended on his flying sword.


    "Hou Yuan, I killed another two at theter stages of Foundation Establishment! I''ve seeded!"


    Apanied by hisughter, Lin Xianzhi''s face was covered in blood, which stained his white hair and his blue robe.


    The once handsome and picturesque patriarch now descended like a butcher,ughing heartily.


    His face bore the signs of old age and fatigue, yet at this moment, his eyes were bright and full of life.


    "Seventh Grand Uncle..." Lin Shiming softly called out, as it was apparent that due to his deep involvement in battle, Lin Xianzhi had not used his Divine Sense to detect Lin Shiming''s presence.


    Upon hearing Lin Shiming call out to him, he was momentarily stunned.


    Then, overjoyed, after his euphoria passed, he restored his dignified patriarchal demeanor.


    "Youd, you''ve grown up so much, and yet you didn''t even send a message to your Seventh Grand Uncle!"


    "Seventh Grand Uncle, Shimingcks strength and returned toote. I seek forgiveness from Seventh Grand Uncle!" Lin Shiming also said, sping his fists.


    "It''s good that you''re back. As for punishment, I forbid you from overexerting yourself for the next three months!" Lin Xianzhi said casually, his eyes filled with relief.


    The string that had been taut in his heart for so long finally loosened slightly.


    At this moment, the other members of the Lin Family n were also very happy. In this battle, the family didn''t suffer heavy losses, and instead, Lin Shiming had returned.


    Moreover, whether it was an illusion or not, everyone felt that with Lin Shiming''s return, they had a pir of support, even more reassuring than Lin Xianzhi himself.


    After all, Seventh Grand Uncle Lin Xianzhi was getting old, whereas Lin Shiming was a rising star. Enjoy exclusive content from empire


    Since Lin Shiming began his journey in the world at the age of seventeen, not a single event had failed to bring tremendousfort to the elders and his calm handling of affairs had been, at times, more adequate than that of the elders themselves. Sometimes, his ideas were particrly astonishing.


    "Shiming, be careful with your investigation!" Lin Xianzhi suddenly thought of something and became worried again as he spoke.


    Having taken two years to return, with a mere early stage Foundation Establishment cultivation level, it was inevitable that suspicions would arise about whether he had been controlled or be an inside spy.


    Lin Shiming had secrets, which Lin Xianzhi knew all too well, and that was his greatest concern.


    The biggest problem was not failing to uncover an internal spy, but exposing Lin Shiming''s secrets.


    At this time, he also began to hope that Lin Shiming wouldn''te back to Heavenly River City.


    With Lin Shiming''s talent and destiny, reaching the Purple Mansion was not impossible, and even achieving the Golden Core was within the realm of possibility.


    Apart from Lin Shiming, only Lin Xianzhi knew that Lin Shiming might possess a wood attribute recessive Spiritual Body.


    "It''s fine, Seventh Grand Uncle!" Lin Shiming replied with a reassuring smile.


    Not long after the battle ended, sure enough, Lin Xianzhi''s senior apprentive brother, Xie An, came over and said to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, Master is somewhat worried about you. You should still go see him!" Xie An''s tone was extremely serious, indicating that he was also aware of the gravity of the situation. Although Lin Shiming had been unaware of the details on Yunjing Mountain, it must be noted that Shiming was the first to notice trouble, the first to escape, and in the end, he had stayed away for two full years.


    Inevitably, he would have to go through an interrogation, which Lin Xianzhi had previously experienced.


    "Senior apprentice brother Xie, I will go to see Master right away!" Lin Shiming nodded and rxed a bit, knowing that having the Zi Xuan Hermite for an interrogation was far better than being interrogated by someone from the Spirit Beast Sect. Perhaps, the Inquiry Spirit Talisman wouldn''t even be necessary.


    While breathing deeply, Lin Shiming also started walking towards the central district of Heavenly River City.


    Heavenly River City, as a fortress, allotted a courtyard to each Foundation Establishment cultivator within the city, while Qi Refining cultivators collectively shared a pavilion. As for those at the Purple Mansion level, they were given a three-story building in the inner city, known as a hall.


    The small building was arranged in a radial pattern, jointly encircling the central tower of Heavenly River City.


    Indistinctly, it seemed to have formed a colossal formation.


    The formation was majestic and natural, as if it were part of the heavens.


    Lin Shiming could not help but observe, but he had not systematically studied the knowledge of formations, and after a while of observation, he got nowhere.


    About half an incense stick''s timeter, Lin Shiming finally arrived at Zi Xuan Hermit''s Zi Xuan Hall.


    One of the senior brothers Lin Shiming had met once and a strange cultivator dressed in beast robes were guarding the entrance.


    "Senior Brother!" Lin Shiming greeted the two respectfully, then continued to follow Xie An into the hall.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Upon entering the hall, what came into view was arge mahogany Eight Immortals table, and Zi Xuan Hermit was still in the familiar purple robe, exuding an authoritative aura without even being angry.


    To Lin Shiming''s surprise, the Zi Xuan Hermit was not sitting in the seat of honor, but rather, it was a middle-aged man with a darkplexion wearing a Spirit Beast robe in the principal seat.


    This dark-faced middle-aged man, Lin Shiming recognized him, was one of the Spirit Beast Sect''s Purple Mansion Perfection cultivators, the ck Jiao Hermit.


    "Master, Martial Uncle!" Lin Shiming stepped forward to salute, extremely respectful.


    "Shiming, your master was worried about you before, but I didn''t expect you to return. This is good news. However, Golden Corpse Child and Chen Yunli robbed the Spirit Beast Sect of a Superior Grade Spirit Stone mine, and the true culprit hasn''t been caught yet.


    The Sect needs to ask you a few questions!" Zi Xuan Hermit spoke in an amicable and equivocal manner, but Lin Shiming also saw that an Inquiry Spirit Talisman had already been taken out by the dark-faced middle-aged cultivator.


    Without waiting for Lin Shiming''s agreement, the Inquiry Spirit Talisman flew into the air and, in the next moment, transformed into Spirit Light, enveloping Lin Shiming within it.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming did not suppress his nervousness. Unless one was prepared, anyone would panic when suddenly faced with an Inquiry Spirit Talisman.


    Then he calmed himself, took a deep breath, and began to describe the situation in full detail.


    Since he was prepared in advance, Lin Shiming was not flustered and he directly omitted the parts involving Lu Changming.


    Using the Minor Divine Ability tree and killing Lu Changming, if these issues were to be questioned under the Inquiry Spirit Talisman, even if Zi Xuan Hermit were on his side, it might not be possible to protect him.


    Zi Xuan Hermit continued to ask questions on the side, while the dark-faced middle-aged cultivator said nothing at all, simply looking more and more serious, as if Lin Shiming had already slipped up.


    But Lin Shiming was sure, this was the old coot pressuring him, just like Lu Changming''s performance earlier, only now the dark-faced middle-aged cultivator had the cultivation level of Purple Mansion Perfection, the pressure was more direct, and much greater.


    "Wait, you said you killed a Corpse Refining Sect Cultivator at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage?" the dark-faced middle-aged man finally spoke, his gaze frighteningly intense.


    "Describe it in detail. Remember, all the details, and the Magic Artifact used by the opponent!!!"


    Lin Shiming did not hesitate, and he recounted how he used the Shocking God Drum and how he killed the Corpse Refining Sect Cultivator one by one.


    In the end, he added, "Master, Martial Uncle, afterwards, Shiming suffered tremendously severe injuries and has been healing for the past two years."


    As he said this, his heartbeat suddenly elerated. He had shifted the concept, but it was a fact.


    Zi Xuan Hermit nodded, no response was given. Instead, it was the dark-faced middle-aged cultivator who continued to stare intently into Lin Shiming''s eyes.


    Just when his heartbeat uncontrobly quickened thinking he had given himself away, the dark-faced middle-aged cultivator finally spoke:


    "Check the Storage Bag!"


    "And the Spirit Beast Bag!"


    As soon as these words were spoken, Zi Xuan Hermit''s expression changed for a moment. Searching the Storage Bag and Spirit Beast Bag was something the ck Jiao Hermit had not mentioned to him before.


    Lin Shiming''s expression also changed.

 Chapter 172 Grass Character Sword Technique

    The entire hall became eerily silent. Zi Xuan Hermit spoke, but the ck Jiao Hermit did not give him face and did not respond; instead, he continued to stare at Lin Shiming.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also finally took a deep breath, removed the Storage Bag and Spirit Beast Bag from his waist, and even produced the hidden Storage Bracelet from his sleeve, handing everything over.


    All the Magic Artifacts and Spirit Stones were now disyed in front of ck Jiao Hermit and Zi Xuan Hermit.


    As the Spiritual Objects and Magic Artifacts were poured out, over a thousand Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones, over a hundred jin of Qingming Iron, as well as the two nascent corporeal zombies in the Heavenly Demon Bag, the Shocking God Drum, Heaven Silkworm Spider Web, Dummy Grass for Fodder, Red-haired Demon Monkey...


    A vast array of treasure was presented before the two of them at that moment.


    However, there were no Superior Grade Spirit Stones, nor were there any relics left by Lu Changming.


    Before entering the city, Lin Shiming had already found a hidden underground location to store everything and had arranged for the Golden Winged Mantis to guard it. He had not worried about the Storage Bag being searched, but rather he was concerned that the Lu Family''s cultivators might trace him through the Magic Artifacts or relics and locate his aura.


    For instance, Lu Changming had found him through the Golden Luan Eagle, which by now had been thoroughly burned to ashes.


    Unexpectedly, this misstep had fortuitously allowed him to dodge a cmity.


    "Your disciple has quite the fortune, not bad!" ck Jiao Hermit''s expression finally rxed, not as aggressive as before. However, when he saw the belongings of the Demon Cultivator, he began to carefully study them.


    It was obvious that he intended to investigate the artifacts left by the Demon Cultivators and Corpse Cultivators, to see if he could find the leading culprits, Golden Corpse Child and Chen Yui. After a thorough check, ck Jiao Hermit''s eyebrows raised slightly, and then he picked up the Jade Slip of the Second Rank secret technique of the Corpse Refining Sect.


    In his speech, a hint of interest was revealed.


    "Preceptor, this Jade Slip was left by a cultivator of the Corpse Refining Sect; your disciple cannot fathom it. Perhaps Preceptor could decipher it!" Lin Shiming also spoke up.


    Seeing Lin Shiming''s cooperative behavior, ck Jiao Hermit nodded his approval and then spoke:


    "Good, this Jade Slip is indeed quiteplex. Very well, as a meeting gift, I shall grant you a one-time opportunity to enter the Heavenly River City''s Third Rank treasure vault!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming was overjoyed beyond measure.


    The merit exchange board of Heavenly River City starts with the heads of ten cultivators of the same rank, and the higher demands are even up to a hundred Demon Cultivator heads. But now, he was allowed to choose at will in the treasure vault.


    What he, with the system''s prompt,cked was precisely such an opportunity.


    While he was confident in killing cultivators of the same rank, he couldn''t ignore that there are higher realms beyond his own, and others more powerful than himself. Even if he was sessful, it would inevitably draw the attention of the upper echelons of the Demon Cultivators on the battlefield.


    Those Purple Mansion cultivators among the Demon Cultivators don''t y by the rules. If they take a liking to you, they would want your body and your divine soul; they certainly wouldn''t care about any immortal cultivation rules.


    After giving Lin Shiming a token, ck Jiao Hermit imed to have something to attend to and left.


    In the entire grand hall, only Lin Shiming and Zi Xuan Hermit remained.


    "Not bad, you might indeed possess atent Spiritual Body, just like your ancestor!" At this moment, Zi Xuan Hermit looked at Lin Shiming and spected as much.


    When he had taken in Lin Shiming, it had only been because of Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi did him a favor, and he, Zi Xuan, promised to protect the Lin Family for some time.


    It was just that Lin Xianzhi and the Lin Family''s temperament truly suited him, so his support had never wavered, even during this national war.


    "Atent Spiritual Body is too illusory. Shiming knows he is only of Third Spirit Root and must focus on the present, enduring arduous cultivation¡ªthat is the true path!"


    "Good, your temperament isn''t bad either. At your age, to have such thoughts, you would earn the term ''genius'' even in the Qingxuan Sect!"


    "It is indeed embarrassing to admit that, as your master, I''ve only bestowed upon you a cultivation technique and a Second Rank magic artifact, offering no further aid. Since you''ve also made a contribution this time, here is a set of Profound Rank sword dao secret techniques that I acquired by chance, unrted to our sect, which I now bestow upon you!" the Zi Xuan Hermit continued speaking.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was extremely surprised; he hadn''t expected that this interrogation would not only avoid mishap but actually turn misfortune into fortune.


    The Profound Rank sword technique was far superior to his Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    Lin Shiming took the jade slip that Zi Xuan Hermit handed to him, excitedly glimpsing at the name of the sword technique.


    "Grass Character Sword Technique!"


    The simple four-character name seemed like the martial arts of an ordinary mortal cultivator. However, as he read the four words, he only felt a de of grass emerge in his mind, which, one day, unexpectedly rose with the wind, transforming into a sharp sword.


    Heaven-ying!


    Earth-Splitting!


    The heavens shattered!


    As the vision faded, Lin Shiming was shocked into a cold sweat. When he regained hisposure, he realized he had lost his decorum in front of the Zi Xuan Hermit.


    "Please forgive your disciple, Master!"


    "No matter, do not let this sword technique be buried. This wood-based sword technique, in my view, is extremely stunning!" the Zi Xuan Hermit said, then picked up the tea cup from the eight-immortal table and began to press down on the spiritual tea with the lid.


    Knowing that Zi Xuan Hermit was hinting at his departure, Lin Shiming promptly took his leave.


    After leaving the Zi Xuan Hall, Lin Shiming finally rxed truly. Outside, Xie An, who had learnt that the Hermit ck Jiao had left earlier, knew that Lin Shiming would be fine, and he came up to speak with Lin Shiming.


    The rtionship between Xie An and the Lin Family was the closest¡ªseveral of the Lin Family''s alchemy and artifact refining shops in the Qingyun Market had shares belonging to Xie An.


    Especially after the Li Family disappeared and defected, the entire market hadpletely fallen into the hands of great Foundation Establishment ns such as the Lin and Qian families, substantially increasing spirit stone revenues. The rtionship between the Lin Family and Xie An was growing day by day.


    Should Xie An break through to the Purple Mansion, the Lin Family would have yet another support.


    "Senior Brother, this is a token of your junior brother''s appreciation. Thanks to your arrangements, this time''s gains were fruitful!" Lin Shiming took out a storage bag containing thirty jin of Qingming Iron.


    This Third Rank material was most suitable for refining spirit armor and was a raremodity in the Qingxuan Sect¡ªonly avable in the Heavenly River State that was within Spirit Beast Sect territory.


    "Many thanks, Junior Brother!" Xie An epted it without hesitation; he was at the peak of Foundation Establishment and needed to break through to the Purple Mansion, which required arge amount of spirit stones, even within the sect.


    As he already had a familiar rtionship with the Lin Family, he naturally did not stand on ceremony.


    After bidding farewell to Xie An, Lin Shiming directly returned to the Lin Family''s small courtyard. Currently, all members of the Lin Family had returned to their residences, and on the city gates of Heavenly River City, a new batch of cultivators had taken up the guard.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Even if demon cultivators and the Corpse Refining Sect disregarded the costs and attacked again, it would not be easy to take down the city gate, unless the Demon Sect brought out Spirit Insects like the Soul Devouring Ants. Your next journey awaits at empire


    However, such Spirit Insects were inherently fierce and nearly impossible to tame as adults. If one were to encounter Soul Devouring Ant eggs, that would require great fortune.


    When Lin Shiming returned to his residence, he immediately recounted all the events in detail to Lin Xianzhi, with nothing left out. However, upon hearing that Lin Shiming had acquired a sword technique as well, Lin Xianzhi''s face not onlycked joy but became extremely pale.


    This was an expression Lin Shiming had never seen on his great-uncle''s face before.


    And in his opinion, the Grass Character Sword Technique was indeed formidable.


    He couldn''t understand why his great-uncle would react this way.

 Chapter 173 Demon-Slaying Tower

    Lin Shiming did not ask, but at this time, he guessed that it had to do with the previous transaction between Lin Xianzhi and Zi Xuan Hermit.


    Lin Xianzhi paced within the room before he finally let out a sigh and said,


    Experience tales at empire


    "Shiming, you must have guessed by now, Zi Xuan Hermit has been our Lin Family''s backer. Initially, it was out of regard for our honorable ancestor Zhengxing, butter it became a transaction!"


    "Speaking of that, when ancestor Zhengxing broke away from the sect to establish our family, many of the Purple Mansion elders in Qingxuan Sect, including Zi Xuan Hermit, did not agree with the move. Later, when our family faced discrimination in Yunzhou, ancestor Zhengxing was even trapped and killed by the patriarch of the Li Family in the Qingyun Mountains.


    At that time, the Li Family had Li Chuanhuan, a Purple Mansion cultivator, but our Lin Family had none!"


    "Zi Xuan Hermit stepped forward, helping our Lin Family to survive three crises of extermination, but as a result, he was warned by the Qingxuan Sect."


    "Later on, Zi Xuan Hermit even took me as an honorary disciple, showing the utmost favor! It''s just that our Lin Family had nothing with which to repay him!"


    As Lin Xianzhi spoke slowly, he sighed and his gaze turned towards the void, as if reminiscing the scenes from a hundred years ago.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    He then continued,


    "Back then, I hadprehended Sword Intent, full of vigor, thinking that no one of the same rank could outmatch me. But in this world, there''s no guarantee of fighting only those of the same rank, nor is there any rule that says battles are one-on-one. I was ambushed by several Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators from the Li Family, and it was Brother Xie who sent help to save me.


    Otherwise, I wouldn''t have even managed to hang on for thirty more years lingering on in dire straits!"


    "While Brother Xie saved me, he also brought instructions from Zi Xuan Hermit: to be a true disciple of the Sect, ensuring the Lin Family''s safety for a hundred years, to forever break away from the family, or to take a risk once and enter Qingxuan Sect''s Profound Grade Secret Realm.


    But at that time, I was already afflicted with the five poisons, and the family could not be without a Foundation Establishment cultivator, so I refused!"


    As Lin Xianzhi spoke up to this point, Lin Shiming couldn''t help imagining the scene of Lin Xianzhi at that time.


    Surely at that moment, the seventh great-uncle must have hesitated, right? To abandon the family for the true teachings of the Sect and the prospect of reaching Purple Mansion, whereas staying in the family meant nothing but the continuation of familial legacy with no other benefits.


    And yet, the seventh great-uncle had chosen the family.


    Just like the first time the seventh great-uncle saw him, asking him why the family? Why indeed?


    They had all chosen the path of the family.


    Within the myriad paths of the Great Dao, they chose to protect one.


    While Lin Shimo had chosen the path of a hermit, outside the Sects.


    "Later, I went with the Sect''s cultivators to find out, finally learning which secret realm Zi Xuan Hermit wanted me to enter."


    "Within the Profound Grade Secret Realm, there''s a Myriad Swords Tomb, from which I was to take a Soul Summoning Sword to help him gather power and solidify pill."


    "And the condition to enter the Sword Tomb was toprehend Sword Intent!"


    When Lin Xianzhi said this, Lin Shiming instantly understood.


    At the same time, his face turned pale.


    The Soul Summoning Sword, also known as a Spirit Summoning Magical Treasure, is best known for its ability to help cultivators break through to Purple Mansion. Even for those at the twilight of their years in Purple Mansion, as long as they are Sword Cultivators, they stand a great chance of breaking through.


    Zi Xuan Hermit was clearly of the same era as our Lin Family''s ancestor Zhengxing. Now with three hundred years passed, even if one broke through to Purple Mansion at the age of a hundred and fifty, they would only have fifty years of life left.


    Fifty years'' lifespan is naturally insufficient for a normal breakthrough to Golden Core.


    But how could the Soul Summoning Sword be so easily obtained? Those kinds of Spirit Summoning Magical Treasures could even reduce a Purple Mansion cultivator to ashes if they attempted to take it.


    And my seventh great-uncle agreed, clearly resolved to a fate of certain death.


    All the mists of confusion parted, no wonder Zi Xuan Hermit looked as he did upon learning that Lin Xianzhi had reached the Sword Light Transformation Realm, attaining a minorpletion of his Sword Intent.


    And now, upon learning of hisbat strength and hidden Spiritual Body, the Hermit granted him the Grass Sword Art.


    Just as the owner of the Many Treasures Pavilion was obsessed with breaking through to the Purple Mansion, the obsession of the Zi Xuan Hermit to break through to the Golden Core was clearly much greater.


    In the face of the Great Dao, there were few who weren''t driven to madness.


    However, Lin Shiming did not particrly dislike the Zi Xuan Hermit, he neither threatened the Lin Family nor did he do anything but bestow gifts, offer protection, and conduct trades.


    He could only hate himself for not being powerful enough.


    After Lin Xianzhi finished speaking, he also took a long breath, knowing his days were numbered, he could only ce all his hope on Lin Shiming.


    Just as Lin Yuqi left with the expectation of the Lin Family producing a Third Rank Alchemist, at this moment Lin Xianzhi''s hope was to see the Lin Family restored as the Purple Mansion Family before he departed.


    To see Spirit Light shine resplendent from Fangmu Mountain, and Purple Qi misting around.


    Lin Xianzhi gave Lin Shiming several reminders, and once again discussed the Grass Sword Art with him.


    Lin Shiming agreed several times and then left Lin Xianzhi''s room, heading towards the Heavenly River City to exchange for a Third Rank treasure at the treasure building.


    The token of the ck Jiao Hermit should be put to good use sooner rather thanter. Right now, without Lu Changming''s Magic Artifact, he only had a few usable Magic Artifacts. Against average Foundation Establishment Cultivators, he was fine, but if he were to face more formidable mid-stage orte-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators, he would have absolutely no hope at all.


    Aside from the Superior Grade Stealth Magic Artifact, the Heaven-Spinning Spider Silk, his other offensive Magic Artifacts were all ordinary Third Rank Intermediate Grade Magic Artifacts.


    In battle, one obviously couldn''t always use a stealth Magic Artifact to cast spells right to the opponent''s face.


    The treasure building he was heading to was also known as the Demon-ying Pavilion, where one could exchange the heads of Demon Cultivators for treasures. The treasures of the Demon-ying Pavilion were provided jointly by the Three Sects.


    Among them were treasures such as Foundation Establishment Pills and Purple Mansion Jade Liquid.


    However, the exchange terms were extremely stringent, especially for Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, as one needed to y a Purple Mansion Cultivator to exchange for it, but if one had the ability to y a Purple Mansion Cultivator, naturally they would be a Purple Mansion Cultivator themselves.


    Lin Shiming did not crave such vain things. At the treasure building''s Third Rank treasures area, he would look for a good offensive Magic Artifact or a good spirit wood.


    Once the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was refined again, he would be fully satisfied.


    He had asked Xie An for the address of the treasure building after leaving the Zi Xuan Pavilion.


    Before long, Lin Shiming arrived at the entrance of the treasure building.


    The treasure building was only separated by a single wall from the city lord''s mansion. Looking up, one could see the sparkling precious glow and Spirit Might radiating from the Beast Ring.


    Lin Shiming nced at it only once, feeling as if a terrifying primeval beast were staring at him, causing him to involuntarily shiver and sweat coldly.


    He hastily practiced the Spell of Split Spirit Decision several times before he finally recovered.


    "Fellow Daoist, that is the Magical Treasure of the Heavenly Beast True Person, you must not look at it directly!" a Cultivator from the Spirit Beast Sect guarding the Many Treasures Pavilion kindly reminded.


    Lin Shiming hastily replied with thanks.


    He then entered the treasure building, which, unlike ordinary shops, first presented a huge luminous screen.


    This screen was clearly a massive Third Rank Magic Artifact, and it was covered with densely packed treasures.


    These treasures were divided into Second Rank, Third Rank, and Fourth Rank treasures!


    Second Rank Qi Cultivation treasures could be exchanged with the heads of Second Rank Qi Cultivation Demon Cultivators, Third Rank Foundation Establishment treasures with the heads of Foundation Establishment Demon Cultivators, and Fourth Rank treasures ordingly.


    Lin Shiming directly bypassed the Second Rank treasures and focused on the Third Rank treasures, looking specifically for spirit woods.

 Chapter 174 Cave Heaven Bead

    The silver screen disyed an abundance of Spirit Woods, causing Lin Shiming''s eyes to dazzle, and he also spotted numerous Hearts of Heavenly Wood.


    Among them, there were Third Rank Superior Grade Tianyun Woods and Third Rank Superior Grade Ironrock Bamboos.


    The exchange conditions for these Hearts of Heavenly Wood required the ying of twenty Foundation Establishment Late Stage Demon Cultivators. Seeing this, Lin Shiming was extremely envious and almost took out the token given by Hermit ck Flood Dragon to make an exchange.


    But his problem at this moment was not True Yuan, but theck of a suitable Magic Artifact.


    He couldn''t utilize a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact even if he exchanged for it. He was unable to control it for the time being. Only Superior Grade Magic Artifacts were avable, but he was unwilling to settle for less.


    Therefore, his target for exchange was aplete set of Third Rank Spirit Wood so he could refine aplete set of Superior Grade magic swords for the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    As Lin Shiming examined the Spirit Wood, he discovered that there were only three types ofplete Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Wood: Qingming Wood, me Yang Wood, and Xuan Yang Wood.


    Out of the three types of Spirit Wood, the first clearly didn''t suit him. It was the second and the third ones that made Lin Shiming hesitate. The former, me Yang Wood, contained the power of zing sun and me.


    With a Fire Spirit Root himself, even though he was cultivating the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, using the me Yang Wood would still enhance the Sword Array''s power significantly, invoking the me Yang energy which would be absolutely devastating against Demon Cultivators and Corpse Cultivators.


    As for the Xuan Yang Wood, it''s an extremely sturdy Spirit Wood, with hardnessparable to Supreme Grade Spirit Wood, but the downside is that it''s very ordinary,cking additional properties, and such swords would be even heavier.


    After much hesitation, Lin Shiming still wanted to choose the former.


    However, just at this moment, he suddenly saw a system prompt appear:


    "Filter through all the Spiritual Pearls, select the dust-covered Grand Cave Heaven Pearl,bine it with the Deputy Spirit tform, and you will obtain a Cave Heaven World!"


    Upon seeing the prompt, Lin Shiming felt his heart thump wildly.


    The hand that was about to take out the token immediately withdrew, for fear of being misunderstood by the exchange personnel.


    After reading the prompt several times again, he finally confirmed that there was no illusion in the prompt.


    Lin Shiming had only heard about the legend of the Cave Heaven World in misceneous records of Immortal Cultivation, which imed that only ancestors who hadpleted Divinity Transformation could control a Cave Heaven World and move it for their own use.


    Beyond this, there were Cave Heaven Pearls. However, in the entire Zhao Kingdom, even in the entire me Region, no one had ever seen a Cave Heaven Pearl, let alone refine one.


    If the system prompt has never shown an error, it means that among the items for exchange, there lies a Cave Heaven Pearl.


    Lin Shiming shifted his gaze away from the Spirit Wood and began to inspect various Bead Artifacts.


    Demon-devouring Bead, Heavenly Thunder Bead, Profound Extreme Bead¡­


    Lin Shiming examined each Bead Artifact one by one.


    Each Artifact came with a description. Lin Shiming skipped all of them, regardless of whether the Bead Artifacts were Third Rank Inferior Grade Artifacts or Third Rank Supreme Grade Artifacts.


    In the end, at the very edge of the screen, he found a mysterious Third Rank bead.


    The description of the bead was that it was a mysterious Artifact, not suitable for blood refinement, as heavy as a mountain, and it could be used to stealthily attack and smash the enemy.


    Upon reading this description, he instantly confirmed that there was no doubt this was the Cave Heaven Bead. A Cave Heaven World naturally weighs immensely and is impossible to refine because the Cave Heaven Bead needs to bebined with a Spirit tform. Without the system''s prompt, no other cultivator would dare to attempt such a thing casually.


    The exchange required twenty Foundation Establishment Early Stage Demon Cultivators.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was even more surprised. He hadn''t expected that this Cave Heaven Bead would only require the heads of twenty Foundation Establishment Early Stage Demon Cultivators. To him, just returning from the battlefield that time, he had already in four Foundation Establishment Early Stage Cultivators.


    He was very conflicted at this moment, but in the end, he did not use the token to exchange for the Cave Heaven Bead.


    It wasn''t that he felt the Cave Heaven Bead unworthy. On the contrary, he was worried that using such a precious token to exchange for the Cave Heaven Bead might easily expose the secret within.


    If the Three Sects'' Purple Mansion cultivators discovered the secret of the Cave Heaven Bead, he would have no chance of obtaining it.


    Lin Shiming lingered on the spot for a long while, his mind in turmoil, but in the end, he gritted his teeth and chose not to pursue the Cave Heaven Bead. Instead, he used the token to exchange for the me Yang Wood, the condition for which was the heads of thirty Foundation Establishmentte-stage demon cultivators.


    Its value was remarkable, even among Third Rank treasures.


    However, upon seeing the hundred-meter-long crimson spirit wood in his Storage Bag, Lin Shiming also understood why it took the heads of thirtyte-stage Foundation Establishment demon cultivators.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Yet even if he was able to refine eighty-one Formation Swords to form the grand Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, he wasn''t too excited at the moment, since he hadn''tid hands on the Cave Heaven Bead yet.


    Only with the Cave Heaven Bead in hand, possessing the Cave Heaven World, would he be able to transnt the Minor Divine Ability Tree and the tree demons there, without fear during searches of his Storage Bag.


    For this reason, he ground his teeth in determination.


    The next time the demon cultivators attacked, he must reveal some of his strength and cut down enough early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators in one fell swoop.


    Upon leaving the Treasure Pavilion, Lin Shiming headed straight for an Artifact Refining Pavilion in Heavenly River City¡ªXuanqing Artifact Refining Pavilion¡ªowned by a Qingxuan Sect Danqi Peak cultivator.


    Natural Third Rank Spirit Wood was meant to be refined into a Sword Array embryo, yet his own Artifact Refining skills were only capable of crafting Inferior Grade Second Rank Magic Artifacts; he was far from capable of refining Third Rank Artifacts.


    This Artifact Refining Pavilion was also rmended by Xie An; it had to be said, this fellow apprentice contributed greatly to the Lin Family.


    The Xuanqing Artifact Refining Pavilion was just a two-story building, signaling that it could only refine artifacts for Foundation Establishment.


    Upon entering, one could see two cultivators seated across from each other, one holding a Secret Technique tome, reviewing its content. Both cultivators were young, but both were mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "Excuse me, are you the two masters Lin Xuan and Xu Qing?"


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming enter, the two cultivators put down their books and sat up straight, looking at him solemnly.


    Find more to read at empire


    "Yes, but, of us two Artifact Refiners, only one can be chosen. Please make your choice," one of them said.


    "Indeed, in terms of Artifact Refining, I am far superior to the one beside me. I presume you know how to choose," each said one after the other, instantly filling the air with tension.


    Only then did Lin Shiming understand why Xie An had that expression after rmending the Artifact Refining Pavilion when he asked where to find quick and cost-effective refining services.


    Reflecting on it now, Xie An had probably anticipated this situation.


    Thispetition within the same store was both novel and an advantage to Lin Shiming, as he guessed that the cost to refine would likely be lower!


    "To both masters, I would like to receive the Magic Artifacts as quickly as possible, so please work together," Lin Shiming spoke up, then seeing their expressions turn cold, he added with a smile:


    "Don''t worry, Spirit Stones and materials are not an issue!"


    "Fellow, you are mistaken. Our skills as Artifact Refiners are among the top within the disciples of the Qingxuan Sect. You can only choose one of us.


    "Besides, do you possess such a vast amount of refining materials?" they retorted in turn.


    Lin Shiming said nothing, taking out the Storage Bag that contained the me Yang Wood and then retrieved thirty catties of Qingming Iron.


    These two materials were top-notch substances for refining Flying Swords.


    "This..." Xu Qing, seeing the abundant Artifact Refining materials, was instantly taken aback. He had never expected Lin Shiming, a junior stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, to produce Spirit Materials worth a million Spirit Stones.


    "Agreed, Xu Qing, let''s use this chance to have a properparison!" Lin Xuan, after a moment of surprise, also quickly consented to the proposition.

 Chapter 175 Visual Prompt (Please Subscribe)

    ```


    Heavenly River City, within the courtyard where Lin Family resided, the wisps of Mingxin Tea''s mist curled upwards.


    A rich fragrance of tea instantly filled the entire room.


    Lin Shiming picked up a teacup, first pouring a full cup for the Seventh Great-Uncle sitting opposite him, then pouring one for himself as well.


    "This Spiritual Tea is indeed good tea, that Wood Demon is also considered a cultivatable item!" After finishing a cup, Lin Xianzhi also felt his whole body and mind be ethereal and clear, not to mention that the fatigue vanished, but it seemed to have also brought about some new understanding regarding his progress in cultivation.


    "Shiming, with your catalyzing speed, you can now catalyze Spirit nts more than twice as fast, right?"


    Lin Xianzhi continued speaking, and Lin Shiming nodded as well.


    It was just that Lin Shiming did not talk much, instead, it was Lin Xianzhi who kept speaking about this and that.


    Lin Shiming just kept on adding Spiritual Tea to the cups.


    Cup after cup, pot after pot.


    After a good half an hour passed, Lin Xianzhi finally let out a sigh and opened his mouth to speak:


    "If you want to master the Grass Sword Technique, then practice it, this Wood Attribute sword technique might truly establish your supreme Sword Dao!"


    At this moment, Lin Shiming finally rxed, his drinking tea with Lin Xianzhi here was indeed long overdue, meant as apany to an elder.


    But more so, he wanted to refine the Grass Sword Technique.


    If the Profound Grade Secret Realm were to open, he did not want Lin Xianzhi to venture in alone.


    Of course, it wasn''t an impulsive decision; his strength was actually fairly decent, with Superior Grade Spirit Stones avable, he could break through to Foundation Establishment Middle Stage within three years, and he was confident about improving his Body Refining Cultivation and Divine Sense by ayer.


    Moreover, he had the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey among his Spirit Beasts.


    The most crucial point was that, even if he came out from the Profound Grade Secret Realm, he had the Cave Heaven Bead to hide some Spiritual Objects.


    Whether it was him or Lin Xianzhi, in fact, both faced an important threshold, the Purple Mansion.


    But the main Spiritual Medicine required for Purple Mansion Jade Liquid was the Purple Jade Fruit, which not only did not exist in the outside world but was also unheard of.


    However, as an important Secret Realm under Qingxuan Sect, it would naturally have the Purple Jade Fruit. Speaking of which, the Deacon of the Duobao Tower had discussed this matter with Lin Xianzhi, about going into the Profound Grade Secret Realm together to obtain the Purple Jade Fruit.


    "Shiming, here are the insights I have gained from cultivating Sword Intent over these years, take a look!" Lin Xianzhi took out a Jade Slip and handed it to Lin Shiming.


    He was aware that Lin Shiming, who was to support the Lin Family''s sky, also had to cultivate the Grass Sword Technique.


    His reluctance for Lin Shiming to cultivate it was only due to his concern that Lin Shiming would enter the Profound Grade Secret Realm along with him, which would put both of them at risk, but then he thought, whether he allowed it or not, Lin Shiming''s cultivation of the technique could not be stopped.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    It was just that Lin Shiming respected his teachers and revered the way of the Dao, unwilling to go against the face of his elder.


    Moreover, Lin Shiming was formidable indeed, but what he had always relied on were his Spirit Beasts and the Wood Vine Technique, along with other Cultivators when facing enemies. If one day his Cultivation Level far surpassed that of his Spirit Beasts and Wood Vine, and hecked assistance from Lin Family n members of equal cultivation, he would be short of a decisive killing move.


    "Thank you, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shiming was also exceedingly happy as he took the Jade Slip.


    After chatting about family matters for a while longer, Lin Shiming excused himself and left.


    He then immediately returned to his room and began toprehend Lin Xianzhi''s insights on Sword Dao as well as the Grass Sword Technique.


    As for the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique and Split Spirit Decision, they were very unsuitable for Heavenly River City, which was on the brink of war.


    The former required recovery time after training the physical body, and thetter, tearing the Divine Sense, also needed time to recover from the Split Spirit Decision.


    Lin Shiming took out the Dao Enlightenment meditation cushion, sat on it, first practiced the Purple Wood Heart Sutra once to bring his state to the utmost level, and then began to study the Seventh Great-Uncle Lin Xianzhi''s insights on Sword Enlightenment.


    Sword Dao and sword techniques value a transparent Sword Heart, with the sword strike created naturally upon execution.


    He admitted to himself that he only knew Sword Maniption techniques, as for the true Sword Dao, it was but a fleeting glimpse he caught when he saw the Zi Xuan Hermit and the True Person of the Heavenly Sword strike.


    Lin Xianzhi''s insights on Sword Dao were extremely detailed, which epassed the confusion Lin Xianzhi felt when he started sword training as a youth, the strengths he gathered from various families when he matured, and his initialprehension of a hint of Sword Intent in his unwavering years.


    Lastly were the openness and pride when Sword Intent emerged, ''overlooking all from a solitary height'', the thirty years at the lotus pond, the reservation of Sword Dao, and then its transformation.


    Bit by bit, from unsheathing to striking, the Sword Dao contained within each movement unfolded in Lin Shiming''s mind like a passing nce.


    ```


    It had been three days before Lin Shiming finally opened his eyes.


    At this moment, his face was full of joy, and there was even a faint hint of sword light in his eyes!


    Of course, this wasn''t to say that Lin Shiming had attained entry-level Sword Intent, but within the Jade Slip, there was not only Lin Xianzhi''s understanding but also a thread of Qinglian Sword Intent.


    At that moment, he couldn''t help but be amazed by his Uncle''s talent in Sword Dao, but at the same time, he also gained a rough understanding of Sword Dao.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath and closed his eyes to reflect once more.


    Only this time, it wasn''t to review or to empathize, but to forget.


    No matter how strong Lin Xianzhi''s Sword Intent was, it was still his own, incorporating the Water Attribute''s continuous surge as well as the metallic attribute''s unstoppable force that could break through anything.


    Half a dayter, the scent of tea rose again, and the mist of tea pervaded the air.


    Lin Shiming, seated on his cushion, opened the Jade Slip of the Grass Sword technique.


    The same scene as before unfolded, only this time, Lin Shiming saw that de of Grass Sword.


    The purple Grass Sword was sprouting,prehending the sword, and then growing.


    In an instant, it seemed as if hundreds of years had passed. The de of grass was still gathering momentum, nurturing the sword within.


    Then a sword strike was unleashed.


    The umtion of hundreds of years of Sword Intent made that strike the only one in heaven and earth.


    The colors of heaven and earth dimmed!


    The grass rose, and the sword fell!


    The sky split, the ground sank!


    The scene disappeared without a trace.


    Experience tales at empire


    And Lin Shiming closed his eyes once again, the corners of his mouth bidding a trace of bitterness.


    He knew clearly that the Sword Intent contained within the Jade Slip was gone, the Sword Intent of the Zi Xuan Hermit, just like the Jade Slip given to him by Lin Xianzhi. With the disappearance of the sword light, the true meaning was lost by a great deal.


    To say Lin Shiming wasn''t disappointed would be a lie; although the Sword Intent of the two scenes gave him a lot of insight, most of it was still confusion.


    Unlike Lin Xianzhi''s easy-to-understand experiences, the Grass Sword at this moment was clearly more difficult, and the Zi Xuan Hermit hadn''t conveyed it with as much care, or perhaps his Grass Sword was at a level too high for him toprehend.


    He tried to cultivate the content of the Sword technique but felt a wave of irritation in his heart.


    However, at this moment, a system prompt appeared once again.


    But this time, it wasn''t a prompt, but a rey of the scene he had just witnessed, slowed down by hundreds of times!


    The only difference was that this time it was a green Grass Sword, a de of green foxtail grass.


    Lin Shiming was shocked; he hadn''t expected that this time the prompt would be a scene rey, but he was also overjoyed.


    If the previous strike of the grass sword left him somewhat confused, this Grass Sword, slowed down by ten times, allowed him to have more rity and understanding.


    And in the scene, unlike the purple Grass Sword, there was a clear difference. He saw the foxtail grass practicing the sword in the wind.


    Sword dancing!


    Ten times!


    A hundred times!


    Ten thousand times!


    This was the true momentum of the Grass Sword!


    The true meaning of the Grass Sword technique gradually emerged in Lin Shiming''s mind.


    ...

 Chapter 176 The Seed (Please Subscribe)

    A month had passed, the urgent tolling of a bell rang out, signaling another attack from the demon cultivators.


    At the door, Lin Xianzhi felt anxious. This was already the third attack by the demon cultivators, and Lin Shiming had been absent for the previous two. His absence this time would trigger a forced summons by the three Great Sects.


    Countless Transmission Talismans appeared outside the door, all intercepted by Lin Xianzhi one by one!


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    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming finally opened his eyes.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    He smiled lightly, putting away his meditation cushion.


    In these fifteen days, he could say he had achieved nothing, for he had not managed to discern any of the sword techniques from the "Grass Character Sword Technique".


    Yet, it could also be said he had made a significant discovery since a seed of dog''s tail grass had been nted at his Spirit tform.


    ...


    "Shiming!" The door opened, and Lin Shiming stepped out. The first thing Lin Xianzhi noticed when he saw Lin Shiming was theplete absence of Sword Qi; not even a trace of the sword light he had left in the Jade Slip remained.


    One could say, the swordes from the heart and also departs from the heart.


    Lin Xianzhi felt a pang of disappointment, but then he thought of Lin Shiming as a Wood Attribute cultivator and suddenly found it quite normal.


    Lin Shiming excelled at control and cultivating Spirit nts. It would not be surprising if his future aplishments went beyond Foundation Establishment; that in itself was impressive.


    Moreover, theck of talent for the Sword Dao meant that missing out on the trip to the Profound Grade Secret Realm might actually be good news.


    "The attacks from the demon cultivators are getting more and more fierce. With each death, they manage to harvest a great deal of souls and corpses for their vile practices!" Lin Xianzhi warned with concern, subtly changing the subject.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Seventh Uncle Xie!" Lin Shiming responded with thanks before heading towards the Artifact Refining Pavilion in Heavenly River City to retrieve his Formation Swords.


    Lin Xianzhi, on the other hand, headed straight for the city gate.


    Outside the Artifact Refining Pavilion, two cultivators hurried out, evidently also there to retrieve Magic Artifacts.


    Lin Shiming entered the pavilion to find Xu Qing and Lin Xuan still there, both obviously ted to see him.


    "Daoist Lin, this array sword prototype I''ve reforged will certainly satisfy you. Though itcks various formations inscribed, its strength and resilience should rank it at the forefront of Superior Grade Magic Artifacts!" Xu Qing was the first to speak.


    And Lin Xuan quickly followed suit:


    "Daoist Lin, the Formation Sword I reforged isn''t much remarkable, just a bit better than what Daoist Xu Qing has offered!"


    Hearing both of them speak like this, Lin Shiming didn''t mind, but took the Formation Swords from their hands instead.


    All eighty-two prototypes of the Formation Swords were ready, forty-one each person.


    As for the forty swords Lin Shiming had requested per person, and the extra one for the other, neither forgot, but each believed they were more skilled and should forge the extra sword.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but have mixed feelings as he looked at the eighty-two Formation Swords; luckily, there was an extra one for spare use. Had there been one less, that would have posed a major problem, preventing thepletion of the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Array.


    Holding the eighty-two swords, Lin Shiming caressed each one. To his surprise, not only were these Formation Swords exceptionally crafted and perfect in every way, but they also looked almost identical.


    If he hadn''t seen it with his own eyes, Lin Shiming would have surely thought they were forged by the same person.


    "Thank you to the two masters, here are the remaining Spirit Stones and materials!" The cost of the Spirit Stones required to forge these eighty-one Formation Swords wasn''t too high¡ªtwenty thousand Spirit Stones. After all, it was just the creation of the prototypes, but they each took a thirty percent cut of the refining materials nheless.


    All three were pleased, and Lin Shiming also made his way toward the city wall.


    He certainly hadn''t forgotten that twenty early-stage Foundation Establishment demon cultivators could be exchanged for a Cave Heaven Bead.


    Moreover, his seclusion had wasted a month, fortunately, aside from the bead''s great weight and the inability to refine it, there might have been a possibility for someone to exchange it.


    When Lin Shiming arrived on top of the city walls, the cultivators were already engaged in battle.


    What made him so solemn was that the Corpse Refining Sect cultivators were bing increasingly powerful, especially those at the Foundation Establishment level; nearly every Corpse Refining Sect cultivator had seven or eight blood corpses of the same rank.


    At the start, two early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators could handle one, yet now it required three to four of them to hold off one.


    Although Heavenly River City had reinforcements, Foundation Establishment cultivators were not the same as Qi Cultivators¡ªthe situation was visibly getting more severe.


    Even worse, Lin Shiming had learned from Xie An that the strength of the Spirit Talisman Sect was clearly weaker than the Spirit Beast Sect, as not only Youzhou but also a majority of Jingzhou had been upied. If Jingzhou were to fall, half of the Spirit Talisman Sect''s territory would end up in the hands of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect.


    And what wrinkled his brow about the situation was that as soon as he entered the battlefield, he saw numerous mid-stage Foundation Establishment body cultivators being divided as spoils by several peak-stage Foundation Establishment demon cultivators and Corpse Refining Sect cultivators.


    Their actions were so swift that other cultivators could not intervene,bined with the obscuring ck fog, it had practically be a harvesting ground for demon cultivators and the Corpse Refining Sect. Fortunately, a Purple Mansion cultivator from the Spirit Beast Sect suddenly raised an arm, and in the next moment, countless purple Gale Birds took flight within Heavenly River State.


    These Gale Birds, being peak third-rank demonic beasts numbering twenty in total, plunged into the battlefield and violently assaulted the demon cultivators.


    Only then did the situation stabilize somewhat.


    Lin Shiming nced at Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan, as well as the Qi Cultivators from his family.


    Only after confirming that they weren''t targeted by high-level demon cultivators did he genuinely engage in battle with a Corpse Refining Sect cultivator at the Foundation Establishment level.


    Lin Shiming drew an ordinary third-rank intermediate-grade magic sword and brandished it continuously.


    If Zi Xuan Hermit were here at this moment, he would notice that Lin Shiming seemed like a de of grass, swinging and brandishing his sword in the air.


    A sword intent, faint and almost imperceptible, also emanated from around Lin Shiming.


    While feeling the movements of the sword technique, the prompt from the system also reappeared in his mind.


    The foxtail grass reenacted the scene of nurturing the sword.


    His mind half on the grass and half on his opponent, he found himself in a quite tense situation facing three Corpse Refining Sect cultivators of the same rank and one from the Corpse Refining Sect.


    However, the seed within his heart shone ever more brightly.


    He had a feeling that the moment the seed broke open would be the moment his Sword Intent was born.


    For Lin Shiming, this moment was his time for sword practice, but to the Corpse Refining Sect cultivators, Lin Shiming appeared to be iling in the wind. With a contemptuous smile, they summoned one blood corpse after another.


    However, whenever they felt they had the upper hand on Lin Shiming, they always seemed tock that little something.


    As he reached the threshold in learning the Grass Sword Technique, Lin Shiming also began to divide his attention, observing the surrounding demon cultivators and Corpse Refining Sect cultivators.


    He was not nning to kill them off one by one slowly, knowing that sooner orter he would attract attention. Instead, he aimed tounch a sudden attack at the end of the battle, taking down twenty cultivators in one fell swoop.


    By then, even if he were targeted, he wouldn''t have to worry, and after ying twenty cultivators of the same rank, he could rest for more than two months.


    Once the Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was engraved, he would have nothing to fear from mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, and he could even battle some of the weakerte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators!

 Chapter 177 Consecutive Kills in the Early Stage

    In the sky, following a thunderous boom, everyone looked to see what was happening at the location of the highest-ranking Purple Mansion cultivator.


    Three golden corpse generals appeared out of thin air, resembling Buddha statues with their golden glow, and fiercely wed at the body of a Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator from the Purple Mansion Family.


    Countless Spirit Shields shattered, and even the golden bowl magical treasures were smashed and sent flying by the golden corpses, the terrifying noise reverberating through heaven and earth.


    In an instant, a Purple Mansion cultivator from the Spirit Talisman Sect met his demise on the spot.


    Even his corpse was collected by a cultivator d in a ck robe, yet the three golden corpse generals did not cease their attack and aimed for another Purple Mansion cultivator from the Spirit Talisman Sect.


    However, from a distance, innumerable talismans unfolded in the air like a scroll, gradually creating a Minor Divine Ability that seemed as vast as the distance between heaven and earth.


    Enveloping the three golden corpses.


    The faces of the three golden corpse generals, which showed remarkably human-like expressions, changed drastically; in the next moment, when their ws reached out, they felt as if they had grabbed nothing,ing up empty.


    Behind them, apanied by a furious voice, a Taoist wearing a yellow robe flew forward: Explore new worlds at empire


    "Golden Corpse Hermit, forunching a sneak attack on my Spirit Talisman Sect disciples, I''ll use your three golden corpse generals and your own head as a sacrifice!"


    "Golden Light Old Taoist, you have quite a bold tone. Let''s see if you still have it after you be a corpse cultivator!" the Golden Corpse Hermit''s lips twisted weirdly, and in the next moment, ripples appeared in front of him as more than a dozen ck coffins flew out.


    Each coffin was three to four Zhang in size.


    The Golden Light Hermit was shocked once more as a formidable Spirit Might emanated from the coffins, and in front of him, another talisman scroll unfolded slowly, like an ink painting.


    The lids of the dozen ck coffins lifted, surprisingly revealing rather ordinary Third Rank blood corpses.


    In the next moment, the blood corpses swelled up and began to self-destruct.


    The terrifying force of the explosion forced the Golden Light Hermit to retreat involuntarily.


    And following the self-destruction, the entire demonic and corpse cultivator factions, as if on cue, shook off their opponents and began to retreat.


    "Quick, stop them!" The Golden Light Hermit was frantic; the Demonic Sect had managed a sneak attack and then fled. If they lost a Purple Mansion cultivator each time while the enemy gained a Purple Mansion corpse cultivator, the fight would be impossible to sustain.


    In the Zhao Kingdom''s Three Sects, there were only ten Golden Core True Persons, with four from the Qingxuan Sect and the rest from the two other sects in threes.


    Their main core strength stilly in the Purple Mansion cultivators of their respective sects.


    The Purple Mansion cultivators from the Spirit Talisman Sect who came to Heavenly River City, including reinforcements from the Purple Mansion Family, totaled just over ten. Now that one had been killed, all were somewhat frantic.


    The Foundation Establishment battlefield, hundreds of meters high, was now seeing all cultivators beginning to withdraw.


    The Corpse Cultivator at the Foundation Establishment stage who was fighting Lin Shiming had already brought out five intact blood corpses and one semi-refined blood corpse, abined force of five at the early Foundation Establishment stage, yet they had not managed to take down Lin Shiming. His expression darkened as they were on the verge of victory yet had to retreat.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Leave your body for this seat!" The Foundation Establishment Corpse Cultivator waved his sleeve, and all five blood corpses retreated in unison.


    However, what he did not know was that at this moment, Lin Shiming''s eyes were gleaming with light.


    Next, a miniature drum appeared in his hands, and with one strike of the drumstick,


    waves of sound violently spread outwards, all directed at the corpse cultivators.


    Though these corpse cultivators had powerful Divine Senses, each controlling three or four blood corpses of the same rank, their Divine Senses were already somewhat overwhelmed. Many Foundation Establishment Corpse Cultivators clutched their heads, crying out in pain.


    The blood corpses also showed a clear pause.


    Lin Shiming''s body flickered like a ghost, as white silken threads were thrown towards the heads of the corpse cultivators.


    The silk of the Heavenly Silkworm was naturally colorless and tasteless, and under the influence of the Shocking God Drum,bined with Lin Shiming''s Split Spirit de.


    In the blink of an eye, he had in three Foundation Establishment Early Stage Corpse Cultivators, hooked their Storage Bags, and Lin Shiming once more turned towards the other retreating cultivators.


    He had almostpletely nned out these cultivators back during the conflict, setting his sights solely on those with weaker Divine Senses¡ªCorpse Cultivators and Demon Cultivators.


    The mallet of the Shocking God Drum also startled many cultivators, even more were shocked by Lin Shiming''s sessive ying of three people, but they were rtively far away and not affected by the Shocking God Drum. However, seeing this, each of them retracted their blood corpses and then remained mentally concentrated with tense expressions.


    All Lin Shiming returned to them was a cold sneer, followed by the rising of the Wood Vine Technique.


    After all, he was here to obtain the Cave Heaven Bead, so how could he let the Corpse Refining Sect and the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators escape?


    Purple Gold Vines suddenly sprang from the ground below, densely packed and with uncanny uracy, stretching right beneath the feet of the targeted cultivators.


    The frightening speed astonished all the cultivators of the Zhao Kingdom.


    Not to mention the Demon Cultivators and Corpse Cultivators, these cultivators were more adept at refining corpses, cultivating demons, and body techniques, while swordsmanship was rarely practiced by many. A good number of them were instantly bound by the Purple Vines, with most of them belonging to the Corpse Refining Sect.


    In contrast, the Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators took out some extremely poisonous gourds and corroded the purple tendrils directly.


    Nevertheless, it was enough to bind over a dozen cultivators, Lin Shiming waved his sleeve, and then countless Flying Swords flew out, forming the Tiangang Sword Formation and shing towards the Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators.


    The Tiangang Sword Formation didn''t require a formation to move, merely the simplebination of swords, which Lin Shiming had already purchased in full as soon as he returned to Heavenly River City.


    Coupled with the Heavenly Silkworm silk, he once again slew five Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators.


    For the few cultivators left bound, numerous Purple Gold Spirit Spears shot out from the bottom of the pit courtesy of the Purple Gold Vines, striking dead another five Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators.


    In a brief moment, ten people were in, and right then, Lin Shiming appeared more demonic than even the Demon Cultivators!


    Yet the end was not in sight, as Lin Shiming next took out the Heavenly Demon Bag, releasing powerful winds into the air, preparing to capture three more!


    Reaching a total of twenty people, these three were also cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect who possessed gourd Magical Treasures.


    The trio''s faces turned pale with shock, cursing inwardly since never before had a Zhao Kingdom cultivator of Foundation Establishment Late Stage ambushed one in the Foundation Establishment Early Stage.


    In their eyes now, Lin Shiming was a Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivator who had concealed his cultivation level. Otherwise, why would his True Yuan reserves and Divine Sense strength be on par with those in the Late Stage?


    Moreover, Lin Shiming was also more insidious, having hidden his abilities for so long, only to attack them¡ªcultivators in the Early Stage of Foundation Establishment¡ªwhile the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect were retreating.


    The fierce winds from the Heavenly Demon Bag were astonishing, and with the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect retreating, the cultivators of the Purple Mansion on high were now fighting with earnest fury.


    No matter how dire their expressions, each of the trio had to ride a Heavenly Demon Banner towards Lin Shiming, with countless demonic heads surging forth in kamikaze fashion towards the Heavenly Demon Bag.


    Yet the Heavenly Demon Bag held them off, but what came next was the Tiangang Sword Formation''s return swing.


    With a Spirit Art cast, the one hundred and eight swords of the Tiangang Sword Formation amalgamated into a colossal light sword, shing down at the three Demon Cultivators.


    As Lin Shiming attacked, it finally caught the attention of the Foundation Establishment Late Stage Demon Cultivators, and two such cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect abruptly stopped, wielding Demon des as they rushed towards Lin Shiming. Clearly, they practiced Body Cultivation, intending to break the encirclement and rescue the three Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivators.


    However, the next moment, a fiery red monkey abruptly lifted a Profound Spirit Mountain, smashing it down on them fiercely.


    This time, not only was the Profound Spirit Mountain shockingly heavy, it was also coated with the Strange Fire of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, burning ferociously.


    The two Foundation Establishment Late Stage Demon Cultivators had no choice but to dodge, but in their moment of evasion, Lin Shiming had already in the three Foundation Establishment Early Stage Demon Cultivators on the spot.


    The pair still wanted to fight their way out, but little did they expect Lin Shiming to be undeterred, his body abruptly retreating towards the city wall behind him.


    "Shameless, a Foundation Establishment Late Stage ying Early Stage, in the next grand battle, I will surely kill you!" Both Demon Cultivators were full of dark resentment. However, at this moment, the Zhao Kingdom''s Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators had also arrived, forcing the duo to retreat angrily back into the demonic fog.

 Chapter 178 Exchange Treasures (Please Subscribe)

    Lin Shiming watched as the Demon Cultivator retreated back into the demonic fog, which was also slowly receding into the Tongtian River.


    The anxiety Lin Shiming had been holding slowly dissipated, as an intermediate grade Spirit Stone was continuously being absorbed in his hand.


    This time, he had killed a total of seventeen Foundation Establishment early stage cultivators. Even though he picked the seventeen whose cultivation strength was clearly from the Zhao Kingdom faction of the Foundation Establishment families, weaker than the formal disciples of the Corpse Refining Sect and Heavenly Demon Sect.


    But the consumption of his True Yuan was indeed substantial, enough topletely deplete a Foundation Establishment middle stage cultivator under normal circumstances.


    This time, he had gone all out. His Divine Sense of thete Foundation Establishment phase was revealed, along with his full mastery of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra and Wood Vine Technique. Even the Red-haired Demon Monkey was exposed, which could be said to be all his cards thrown out within a short period of time, except for the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    Next time there''s a major battle, probably evente Foundation Establishment cultivators will be targeting him.


    But by then, what of it?


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but smile at the thought.


    Once this great battle was over, he nned to exchange for a Cave Heaven Bead, then go out and retrieve the Golden Winged Mantis and a superior grade Spirit Stone, and with that, break through to the Foundation Establishment middle stage in one swoop.


    By then, with a superior grade Formation Sword in hand, he really wouldn''t fear ordinaryte Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    "But what about the Zi Xuan Hermit?" Lin Shiming suddenly frowned, thinking that once the battle was known, the Zi Xuan Hermit would probably suspect whether there was something wrong with his Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    The Zi Xuan Hermit had already tested him once before on Fangmu Mountain.


    He could only hope that the Zi Xuan Hermit would put it down to histent Spiritual Body.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, no longer thinking about it. Today''s all-out effort was unavoidable for him, unless he was willing to repeatedly engage in sneaky battles. But having seen the Corpse Refining Sect and Heavenly Demon Sect, even Purple Mansion cultivators would resort to sneaky attacks without any dignity of the strong¡ªslowly killing in such a way posed an even greater risk.


    Of course, his biggest concern was how long the Zhao Kingdom could hold out.


    The cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sectpletely relied on waging war to sustain themselves, gaining corpse refining materials and essence souls by killing.


    On the other hand, the Zhao Kingdom cultivators, at most, got some insignificant blood corpses and some demon banners after killing their enemies, and with the Zhao Kingdom cultivators'' techniques, these weapons were hardly effective.


    If a Purple Mansion cultivator of the Zhao Kingdom died this time, next time, the Corpse Refining Sect would have one more Corpse General.


    Even though converting a freshly deceased cultivator into a corpse required arge amount of rare materials and carried a certain possibility of failure, it was important to remember this was a war between two countries, a conflict between righteous and demonic, and the Corpse Refining Sect, ruling the entire Yan Country, would naturally not be stingy with these materials.


    With this thought, Lin Shiming''s heart grew even more anxious, and improving his strength as soon as possible became urgent.


    At this moment, Lin Xianzhi and other members of the Lin Family n also rushed over. Lin Xianzhi''s expression was not good at this moment; he did not think Lin Shiming''s prominence in the battle was a good thing.


    Lin Houyun was also somewhat puzzled, while Qi Cultivators like Lin Shiyi and Lin Houxuan from the ''Hou'' and ''Shi'' generations were as spirited as rising clouds.


    "Shiming, don''t you know that what the Demon Sect is looking for are cultivators with exceptional talents, and even waging wars? There are even rumors that they covet some geniuses'' Spirit Roots and special spiritual bodies¡­" Lin Xianzhi spoke with some dissatisfaction in his tone. Since Lin Shiming''s return, he himself had not taken any risks.


    And in his view, Lin Shiming was the least who should be taking risks.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, Father, I just found the opportunity for a breakthrough!" Lin Shiming had already prepared an excuse, and now he spoke.


    Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan both changed expressions, followed by ecstatic joy.


    Lin Shiming broke through to Foundation Establishment at thirty, and now, just seven yearster, he had already encountered the threshold of the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    The pace was simply too fast.


    "Good, good, good!" Lin Xianzhi said the word "good" three times in a row.


    At this moment, his spirits were high.


    The joy also made Lin Shiming somewhat happy.


    From the beast tide to the invasion of the Heavenly Demon Sect, in these ten years, his great-uncle had rarely shown such happiness.


    "Shiming, I have the military exploits of ten Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivators, I''ll go exchange them for Spirit Pills for you right now."


    Beside him, Lin Houyuan also looked towards Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, here are two hundred thousand Spirit Stones..."


    Then, even the Qi Cultivators like Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei wanted to offer their help, and Lin Shiming felt warm inside, also further solidifying his resolve.


    "Thank you, Great-uncle, Father, and all the elders and brothers for your kindness. Shiming has already made preparations. Everyone should exchange for more Spirit Talismans and Spirit Pills, the next battle might be even more dangerous!" Lin Shiming thanked them one by one.


    Afterwards, he returned to the courtyard with the group. Along the way, many Foundation Establishment families were sending messages to the Lin Family, hoping to form alliances.


    If at the beginning, the Foundation Establishment families had confidence in expelling the Corpse Refining Sect and the Heavenly Demon Sect seeing the Beast Taming Ring Treasure in the sky, now after countless deaths, even losing rtives and martial brothers to the Corpses and fiends within the Demon gs, they only wished to survive this war.


    Meanwhile, the strength disyed by the Lin Family was enough to move them.


    "Father, mingle with these families more, but remember not to make promises, nor to alienate them!" Lin Shiming advised, noticing the families that wanted to get acquainted, and sent a message to Lin Houyuan.


    Even with the Zi Xuan Hermit taking care of things above, Lin Shiming still felt some distrust towards the Sect Cultivators and also didn''t want to put all his bets on them.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    While these Foundation Establishment families might look insignificant, their abilities to gather information and survive amidst chaos were not to be underestimated.


    Interacting with them more was definitely not a bad thing.


    Lin Houyuan nodded and after discussing for a short while, Lin Shiming went with Lin Xianzhi to the Demon ying Tower to exchange for treasures.


    In front of the Demon ying Tower, the crowd was bustling, with many cultivatorsing and going.


    All of them had just gathered enough heads of demon cultivators and wereing to exchange for treasures.


    Lin Shiming was following behind Lin Xianzhi, silent, like a junior apanying Lin Xianzhi to gain experience.


    And Lin Xianzhi, he was acquainted with many Sect Cultivators and was constantly chatting. If he encountered some cultivators with unfathomable Cultivation Levels whom he didn''t know, he would still greet them from a distance.


    They quickly arrived at the disy screen with the treasure list. Lin Xianzhi focused on the list, the heads of ten Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivators could be exchanged for quite a few good items.


    Lin Shiming also followed suit, scanning the screen as if he was watching a circus, then his eyes heated up as he looked at those precious Third Rank treasures.


    He then took out his Token that recorded his military exploits and after checking, his eyes revealed a hint of disappointment.


    Some cultivators nearby didn''t notice Lin Shiming''s expression, but the Perfection-stage cultivator in charge of handling the treasures looked at Lin Shiming somewhat scornfully.


    Such a novice cultivator clearly marked as a family''s seed was actually the most likely to die in theserge Sect battles.


    What he didn''t know was that Lin Shiming''s heart also heaved a sigh of relief.


    The Cave Heaven Bead was still there!

 Chapter 179 Plotting

    Inside the Demon ying Tower, under the long luminescent screen, Lin Xianzhi''s gaze finally settled.


    "Deacon Wei, please help me retrieve a Tribtion-Resolving Elixir," Lin Xianzhi handed over his token representing his identity to a portly deacon from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Within the Demon ying Tower, people from the Three Sects were present, and naturally, deacons from each of the Sects were there to take turns at this duty, and this Wei was one of the Qingxuan Sect''s.


    "Daoist Lin, you are too polite. I''ll process this for you right away," Deacon Wei epted the token, checked it, took out a pill bottle, and handed it to Lin Xianzhi, then his gaze involuntarily fell on Lin Shiming beside him.


    The effects of the Tribtion-Resolving Elixir were beneficial for those at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, and clearly, Lin Xianzhi was exchanging for this elixir for Lin Shiming, who was beside him.


    "Daoist Lin, if I may be so bold to say a word, during times of great battles, it''s still important to focus on your own cultivation level," the deacon warned.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Deacon Wei," Lin Xianzhi also bowed in gratitude.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s gaze darted left and right, seemingly discontent.


    "Deacon Wei, help me exchange for a heavier magic artifact¡ªthe heavier, the better!" Lin Shiming spoke, producing his token with an air of arrogance.


    "A heavier magic artifact?" Deacon Wei''s expression turned somewhat unpleasant. He himself was at the peak of Foundation Establishment and could consider himself a peer to Lin Xianzhi. Even though he had heard of Lin Shiming''s talents and strength, such temperament might not be suitable for achieving great things.


    Taking into ount Lin Xianzhi''s presence, Deacon Wei refrained from speaking further and checked the token only to find it had just twenty Foundation Establishment Early Stage Contribution Points.


    He then began pointing out a series of Third Rank Inferior Grade magic artifacts disyed on the luminescent screen.


    "Can''t I exchange for Third Rank Intermediate Grade or Third Rank Superior Grade ones?" Lin Shiming asked.


    "There is, in fact, one bead artifact," Deacon Wei replied coldly.


    He then pointed to the Cave Heaven Bead.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s heart surged, not expecting Deacon Wei to understand so well.


    He had directly picked out the key point.


    "How heavy is it?" asked Lin Shiming. Despite his excitement, he managed to maintain a calm exterior.


    "You can try it," Deacon Wei said, tossing the bead straight to Lin Shiming.


    Catching it, Lin Shiming felt as though an entire mountain was pressing down on him, heavier than even a full-strength punch from the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Only by exerting his True Yuan was he just able to hold it.


    "Good, I''ll exchange for this," confirmed Lin Shiming, his eyes brimming with joy.


    Without another word, Deacon Wei made a mark on the token, erasing the Contribution Points from it.


    He then spoke up:


    "It''s done, but this magic artifact is quite particr about its owner!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming tested it with his True Yuan, and the next moment his face fell; the other meaning of ''particr'' being that it couldn''t be refined.


    A bead that couldn''t be refined, no matter how heavy, was ultimately useless in battle.


    Deacon Wei waved his sleeve and turned back to tend to the counter, not giving Lin Shiming a chance to say anything more.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to follow Lin Xianzhi back to where they were staying.


    All the way, Lin Xianzhi said nothing and did not inquire about the bead.


    Lin Shiming too remained silent about the matter.


    Upon returning to their residence, Lin Xianzhi flung out several formation gs, skillfully emitting streaks of spirit light one after another.


    As one Spirit Istion Formation after another was put in ce, Lin Xianzhi turned to look at Lin Shiming, staring at him without a word, the message clear without being spoken.


    Lin Shiming immediately knew that he could no longer hide it. Given his performance, anyone familiar with him would have noticed, and Lin Xianzhi was naturally among them:


    "Uncle Ancestor Seven, my mantis has sensed something good again, so that''s why I made the exchange!" Lin Shiming continued using the excuse he hade up with for the Peach Blossom Valley incident. After all, attributing the opportunity to the gold-colored mantis with some abilities seemed quite reasonable.


    He did not want to disclose the matter of the Cave Heaven Bead to Lin Xianzhi, just like when he had modified the cultivation technique, and Lin Xianzhi had sealed his own memory.


    "Very well!" Lin Xianzhi did not ask further and handed over the elixirs he had exchanged to Lin Shiming, and then he said:


    "If you don''t understand something, you cane to ask me at any time. Additionally, for your breakthrough, I''ll submit your request for closed-door cultivation this time, so you won''t need to join the next few battles!"


    "Thank you, Uncle Ancestor Seven!" Lin Shiming looked up, somewhat moved. At this point, Lin Xianzhi still chose to exchange elixirs for him instead of increasing his ownbat power.


    But he knew, he couldn''t change Lin Xianzhi. He could only remember this kindness and, carrying the hopes of the Lin Family, continue moving forward.


    Uncle Ancestor Seven left, carrying a heavy burden but also entrusting a heavy hope.


    Lin Shiming shook his head and took out the Cave Heaven Bead.


    The Cave Heaven Bead was heavy, like a mountain. If it weren''t for his True Yuan supporting it, Lin Shiming felt the bead would have directly broken his hand.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Keep in mind, he was a Body Cultivator.


    Yet, the heavier it was, the more secretly delighted Lin Shiming became in his heart.


    The heavier the Cave Heaven World, therger the space inside it turned out to be.


    The Cave Heaven Bead was not a perfect sphere but an oval bead, grey in color and made of a material that was neither stone nor jade.


    After examining it closely for a while, Lin Shiming put away the Cave Heaven Bead and did not immediately bring it into his Dantian tobine it with the Spirit tform.


    Instead, he began to practice the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    Ever since Lin Shiming returned to Heavenly River City, his cultivation had be smoother day by day, his improvement in Cultivation Level increasingly evident.


    This was because his True Yuan had been refined to nearly the ultimate level, not much different from that of the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage.


    At this moment, he was onlycking a catalyst to reach the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, which would then allow for things to fall into ce naturally.


    ...


    Inside an unremarkable pavilion, a blue-robed cultivator was seated at the main seat in the grand hall, while a cultivator at thete stage of Foundation Establishment was crouched below, reporting in detail.


    "Reporting to Deacon Dong, a total of one hundred and twenty treasure maps from the Demon-ying Tower have been distributed!"


    "Good, well done. With the previous distributions in the ck market included, we''ll definitely be able to open the mysterious herbal garden in the Qingxuan Secret Realm this time!" The blue-robed cultivator tapped the nanmu armrest of the throne leisurely with his index and middle fingers, slightly excited.


    "By the way, Deacon Dong, that bead has also been exchanged by someone?" Thetter stage Foundation Establishment cultivator continued.


    "Oh, who has taken it?"


    "A junior cultivator from a small family n in Yunzhou within Qingxuan Sect''s territory. He appears extremely young and utterly inexperienced."


    "But he was leading me in a roundabout way; it might just be good luck, not as if he deliberately exchanged for it!"


    "Lead on, then keep an eye on him. If his Cultivation Level breaks through soon, or if he masters that artifact, report back to me swiftly!" After the blue-robed cultivator finished speaking, his gaze drifted into the void for a moment. He had studied the bead for decades.


    Despite his Purple Mansion cultivation, he couldn''t unravel it, and the bead''s weight was equivalent only to a Foundation Establishment Magic Artifact, not even reaching the material for a typical Magical Treasure.


    After some thought, he decided not to bother with it anymore and instead thought of the treasure maps and the herbal garden in the Qingxuan Secret Realm.


    Speaking of this herbal garden, he had discovered it during hisst participation in the Profound Grade Secret Realm event hosted by the Qingxuan Sect, but at that time, he couldn''t open it. Now a Purple Mansion cultivator, he hadn''t forgotten to continue his scheming.


    It''s just that the Formation around the herbal garden was slightly cruel, not quite suitable for recruiting cultivators from his own sect.

 Chapter 180 Peeking

    ```


    Three days had passed, and Lin Shiming opened his eyes, concluding his cultivation of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    He felt the True Yuan flowing tumultuously within him, like surging clouds.


    When he noticed the faint traces of Divine Sense in the small building had disappeared, he fully rxed and took out the Cave Heaven Bead.


    The bead was still its ordinary grey color, and he held it up to his chest.


    The deputy Spirit tform, which had evolved from the heart of celestial wood, began to release a slow gravitational pull.


    Unlike True Yuan input into the Spiritual Pearl with no change, the gravitational force released by the Spirit tform instantly attracted the Cave Heaven Bead.


    Lin Shiming''s expression subtly changed, quietly feeling the magic of the Cave Heaven Bead.


    The Cave Heaven Bead, truly a Magic Artifact of the great world, soon emitted a faint light and started to spin increasingly fast.


    Seeing this, he ced no restrictions on the Spirit tform, released its gravitational pull, and drew from within a remarkably pure stream of True Yuan, beginning to envelope the Cave Heaven Bead and directing it into his body.


    The moment the Cave Heaven Bead touched the Spirit tform, Lin Shiming felt a destructive force of suction appearing within it.


    Inside the deputy Spirit tform, the True Yuan began to drain rapidly, disappearingpletely in an instant.


    And to know, the deputy Spirit tform could hold three times the True Yuan of the main Spirit tform.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Frightened, Lin Shiming quickly took out Spirit Milk and intermediate-grade Spirit Stones, as well as arge handful of elixirs for restoring True Yuan.


    He swallowed them all at once like popping dates, then started to refine them rapidly.


    But to Lin Shiming''s astonishment, the elixirs and Spirit Milk he had just ingested hadn''t even been refined by him before they were absorbedpletely, and the original True Yuan in his body also began to slowly drain away.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to take out more elixirs and, using Spirit Stones, set up a small-range Spirit Formation around him.


    A good whileter, the Cave Heaven Bead finally settled down, and by then, Lin Shiming was drenched in sweat.


    He never expected that the True Yuan absorbed by the Cave Heaven Bead would be so terrifying.


    Lin Shiming did not dare to check immediately but quickly resumed cultivating the Purple Wood Heart Sutra to recover.


    After another half-day passed and he felt his True Yuan hadrgely recovered, he finally rxed.


    Then, upon inspecting his deputy Spirit tform, he found a peculiar white light spot. When his Divine Sense probed it, a strange suction force appeared.


    Explore hidden tales at empire


    This force was not strong and was still under the control of his will.


    Lin Shiming released his Divine Sense into it, and the next moment, he felt the world spin around him.


    As brightness entered his eyes and the view suddenly cleared, a world of a hundred zhang in diameter appeared before him.


    What met his eyes was overgrown weeds, and of destion, and even the tiny Spiritual Medicine Garden in front of the only straw hut was dpidated and neglected.


    Rustling among the nearly wilting Spirit Grasses, the level of Spiritual Energy was extremely thin.


    Even so, Lin Shiming was immensely excited; the preciousness of the Cave Heaven World did not lie in its contents, but in its very existence.


    The insufficiency of Spiritual Energy could be remedied by introducing a Spirit Vein; the barren Spiritual Medicine Garden could be re-cultivated and expanded.


    Moreover, having the Cave Heaven World, Lin Shiming would not only have convenience in iming treasures, but he could also move the Spirit nts like the Minor Divine Ability Tree into the Cave Heaven World. Otherwise, staying in Fangmu Mountain, it would still be easy for unnecessary changes to arise.


    It also made it convenient for him to nurture and elerate the growth of Spirit nts.


    Lin Shiming continued to survey the entire Cave Heaven World with his Divine Sense, ensuring no unexpected factors, and then excitedly exited the Cave Heaven World.


    But now that the Cave Heaven World had taken root in his Spirit tform, he found that the True Yuan, which his deputy Spirit tform automatically absorbed and refined, was all being drawn away by the Cave Heaven World.


    His deputy Spirit tform, having been refined from the heart of a Wood Demon, could automatically absorb True Yuan on its own.


    ```


    Fortunately, the speed of absorption by the Spirit tform synchronized with his own, and when it came to cultivation, he still relied on his very own Spirit tform.


    For him, it indeed affected the recovery speed of his True Yuan to some extent, but overall, it posed no significant harm.


    Next, Lin Shiming tried putting in Spirit Beasts and Magic Artifacts, finding the process as convenient as using a Storage Bag, which brought him immense joy. He yed with it for a good while, just like when he first rode a Flying Sword during the early days of his cultivation.


    However, at that moment, Lin Shiming felt a sudden tremor in his heart, as the Spirit Contract exhibited some attracting changes.


    The next instant, a system prompt appeared out of nowhere.


    "Pay attention to your Spirit Beast, it has been spied upon!"


    The system prompt was clearly referring to the Golden Winged Mantis. The Red-haired Demon Monkey was on him, and there were no surprises.


    Lin Shiming was somewhat anxious, knowing that where the Golden Winged Mantis resided, there was not only the mantis itself but also two Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, several Superior Grade Magic Artifacts, and dozens of Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    Especially the Superior Grade Spirit Stones, these were by far his greatest treasure for breaking through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment in the short term.


    After pondering for a moment in his mind, Lin Shiming was unwilling to stay any longer. He activated the Formation on the house and then transmitted a message to Lin Xianzhi, first excusing himself.


    He also sent a message to Xie An, asking him to report on his behalf and at the same time, requested a city exit token from him before he could leave the city.


    Xie An didn''t stop him. The Lin Family wasn''t originally a frontline family, only bing involved because Yunjing Mountain was plundered, in an attempt to redeem themselves for their crime by earning merit. With his record of ying twenty opponents of the same rank, no one would have much to say.


    But upon his return, a thorough investigation would be inevitable.


    ...


    At an unnamed small mountain, this ce was a patch of greenery with towering trees.


    Deep in the forest was a huge cave.


    Inside the cave, a golden mantisy quietly on a stone wall, motionless.


    Only the constant snapping of its jaws hinted that the mantis hadn''t lost its lifeforce.


    A light of Spirit descended from the sky, followed by a figure in green, who walked into the cave dwelling.


    It was Lin Shiming, who had been traveling around the area for quite some time because of the emergency.


    If it hadn''t been for the urgency of the situation, Lin Shiming would have certainly taken a few more turns before arriving.


    But now, seeing that the Golden Winged Mantis was unharmed, he also felt relieved.


    Upon seeing its master arrive, the Golden Winged Mantis also chirped excitedly, transforming into a streak of golden light and flying in front of Lin Shiming, its golden triangr head constantly rubbing against his waist.


    It chirped excitedly from its mouth, like a resentful woman left behind at home.


    Without Lin Shiming around, the Golden Winged Mantis naturally couldn''t open the Storage Bag.


    Seeing the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming was overjoyed as well. He then took out some Spirit Water and Beast Nurturing Pills for thetter.


    This time''s Beast Nurturing Pills were almost his entire stock, as after all, they were only Second Rank pills, and the mantis could eat about ten at a time.


    The Golden Winged Mantis really was frustrated, gulping down most of the Beast Nurturing Pills at once, as well as arge amount of Spirit Water and Spirit Beast meat before stopping.


    What surprised him, though, was that after eating and drinking to its fill, the Golden Winged Mantis didn''t settle down and enter the Spirit Beast Bag. Instead, it continued to chirp anxiously.


    Anger was conveyed through the Spirit Contract.


    "Do you mean to wait here a bit longer, you want to fight with someone?" Lin Shiming asked hesitantly. The Golden Winged Mantis looked just like the Red-haired Demon Monkey right after its breakthrough, who wanted to spar with the mantis.


    The Golden Winged Mantis chirped even more urgently, nodding its triangr head continuously.


    Lin Shiming was still hesitating, but recalling the system prompt, he guessed that this matter might be rted to the spying!

 Chapter 181 Dragon Lizard

    The cave on Nameless Mountain was extremely spacious, and the Golden Winged Mantis once againid on the stone wall.


    Its golden triangr head was leisurely opening and closing its sharp mouth, making it appear exceedingly at ease.


    Paired with its golden insect wingszily stacked together, it gave the illusion of dozing off.


    The entire cave was very quiet; aside from the breeze that blew through the entrance and rustled the stone wall, there were no other sounds.


    Just then, from deeper beneath the ground, a yellow-brown spirit light quietly approached.


    The spirit light was veryrge, yet its movements were extremely careful, and it was evidently very familiar with navigating underground, as it obviously hadn''te here infrequently during this period.


    After seeing that the Golden Winged Mantis hadn''t made any movement, the yellow-brown spirit light cautiously moved several times beneath the ground, and only after quite some shifting did it slowly climb up.


    Strangely, when the yellow-brown spirit light touched the stone wall, it once again transformed into a gray-white spirit light, blending with the stone wall into one color.


    "A color-changing lizard?" Not far from the Golden Winged Mantis, beneath a green Taoist robe, an invisible figure was lost in thought.


    That figure was none other than Lin Shiming, who was concealed behind the scene, except this time the bait was the Golden Winged Mantis, so he simply wore his Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    Feeling the escape light from beneath the ground, Lin Shiming also found it extremely peculiar.


    After all, the Qinglian Taoist Robe he wore was made from the skin of a color-changing lizard.


    Under Lin Shiming''s gaze, the grey-white escape light continued to ascend, clearly heading towards the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Since the Golden Winged Mantis hadn''t noticed it, Lin Shiming had no choice but to use the Spirit Contract to remind it.


    Almost concurrently with the reminder, the grey-white escape light burst out from the stone wall, then transformed into a massive fleshly maw, and violently swallowed towards the Golden Winged Mantis.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, being alerted, was also very vignt, and the infuriated creature immediately fluttered its six wings, leaving behind an afterimage.


    Then, its two enormous golden sickle-like legs fiercely shed at the lizard.


    However, against Lin Shiming''s expectations,yers of sand shields appeared around the lizard, bearing some simrity to the spells cast by Lin Houwei.


    But this lizard''s were unmistakably more terrifying.


    The Quicksand Shield rumbled loudly, sessfully blocking the golden sickle legs.


    Yet the next moment, as the sand dispersed, a ball of yellow-brown spirit light appeared in the gaping maw.


    "Breath!" Lin Shiming also gasped in surprise from the side.


    Such breath attacks were exclusive to dragon-lineage Demonic Beasts.


    This lizard was not just any color-changing lizard, but a Dragon Lizard!


    Lin Shiming felt a surge of excitement in his heart. The Demonic Beasts in this world, regardless of their species, as long as they carried a dragon lineage, were certainly extraordinary creatures, and dragon-lineage Demonic Beasts had one major characteristic: they were extremely effective in body refinement.


    Among them, the effects of the Flood Dragon were the best, with just the blood of a Flood Dragon being extremely precious.


    As Lin Shiming pondered, the breath had already fiercely sprayed onto the Golden Winged Mantis, but the golden legs tore it apart violently.


    Yet the remaining force enraged the Golden Winged Mantis even more, causing it to continuously screech.


    The Dragon Lizard didn''t stop there. It stretched out its long tongue, attempting to coil around the mantis and reel it in.


    However, at that moment, Lin Shiming made his move. He fiercely struck the Shocking God Drum, and as spirit patterns surged forth, another Split Spirit dended on the Dragon Lizard''s forehead.


    The Dragon Lizard let out a piercing shriek and its whole body''s sand shields began to automatically condense.


    His body began to submerge automatically towards the depths below.


    However, Lin Shiming, who hade well-prepared, wouldn''t make any mistakes. He threw out a g, and a Spirit Formation rose up, directly breaking the Flood Dragon''s Earth Escape Technique.


    Then, numerous Purple Gold Vines spread out and wrapped the Dragon Lizard into a purple bundle. In the next moment, a fiery red Red-haired Demon Monkey appeared, lifting the Profound Spirit Mountain and smashed it down on the Dragon Lizard.


    Landing a direct hit like a mountain, it copsed the Quicksand Shield, and immediately after, a purple golden spear pierced through the Dragon Lizard''s neck.


    Sand scattered and fell, while the Purple Gold Vines retracted under themand of Lin Shiming''s Spirit Art.


    As the Spirit Light faded, it revealed a huge lizard that was three meters tall, covered with earth-yellow Spirit Patterns, and adorned with unsightly bulges of flesh.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Most peculiarly, on its forehead, there was a small bulge.


    Both the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey howled and rushed toward the corpse, obviously wanting to feast on the Dragon Lizard.


    The Dragon Lizard wanted to eat them, but they equally coveted the flesh of this Dragon Beast.


    Lin Shiming also stepped forward, chopped off the two legs of the Dragon Lizard, giving one to each beast. The rest of the body was then stored in his Cave Heaven World.


    The flesh and blood of the Dragon Lizard was top-notch material for Body Refinement, and its ws and tail were high-grade materials for crafting; naturally, Lin Shiming wouldn''t let these two beasts ruin them. Continue your adventure with empire


    It was just a pity that the Dragon Lizard was clearly a juvenile Demonic Beast; otherwise, once that bulge grew into a horn, its value would have increased by hundreds of times.


    Of course, by then, it might not be something he could kill.


    The two beasts were clearly dissatisfied with only getting such a small leg each, but after Lin Shiming tapped their foreheads twice, they obediently nibbled on the legs in their hands.


    The Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey quickly devoured the small legs of the lizard. Both Spirit Beasts ate until their faces glowed red and they were full of vigor, one howling and the other squeaking non-stop, jumping up and down excitably.


    This scene made Lin Shiming feel rather amazed, and he became greatly interested in the flesh of the Dragon Lizard.


    Whether his Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique could advance to the level of a Foundation Establishment Body Refining Cultivator depended on this opportunity.


    After circling around a few times, the Red-haired Demon Monkey eagerly pointed towards Lin Shiming''s waist, clearly wanting to return to the Spirit Beast Bag to sleep.


    What surprised Lin Shiming was that the Golden Winged Mantis showed no intention of returning at all. Its golden head tinged with red vibrated as itmunicated with Lin Shiming, then turned its head to investigate in another direction, right towards where the Dragon Lizard hade from.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming''s interest grew. The Golden Winged Mantis''s behavior was clearly suggesting that he search for the Dragon Lizard''s cave.


    Lin Shiming released his Divine Sense and took out an Earth Escape Talisman, beginning to pursue through Earth Escape.


    The Golden Winged Mantis took the lead underground, constantly guiding Lin Shiming to the right location.


    After maneuvering left and right, passing numerous mountain peaks, they finally stopped above a fissure.


    As he emerged from the ground, Lin Shiming felt the surrounding Spiritual Energy was exceptionally abundant, clearlying from a natural Spirit Vein.


    The level of the Spirit Vein reached the Inferior Grade of the Third Rank, albeit leaning towards the Earth Attribute.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s excitement and tion were beyond words. His Divine Sense probed out and discovered that this fissure, like the Yellow Grade Secret Realm he once stumbled upon, formed a natural Spirit Concealing Formation, which contained and concentrated the Spiritual Energy from the Spirit Vein.


    As a result, the Spiritual Energy of the Spirit Vein grew denser and denser.


    Lin Shiming was fine, but for an average Cultivator who practiced Earth Attribute techniques, their Cultivation speed here would certainly be much faster.


    There weren''t many nts in the fissure, and Lin Shiming''s Divine Sense soon located the Dragon Lizard''s den.


    With a single p of its wings, the Golden Winged Mantis transformed into a streak of golden light and headed straight for the den, evidently there were Spiritual Objects inside that enticed it.


    Realizing there were no dangerous Spirit Beasts around, Lin Shiming also quickly followed suit.

 Chapter 182 Closed Door Meditation (Please Subscribe)

    ```


    The Dragon Lizard''s cave was deep within the crevice, featuring a circr entrance about thirty feet high, and the inside was full of traces from the Dragon Lizard''s crawling.


    Outside the cave, numerous animal bones had umted, clearly leftovers from the Dragon Lizard''s meals, casually spread across the entrance in heaps bothrge and small, forming a kind of bone mound.


    These mounds of bones also served as the Dragon Lizard''s warning to other Demonic Beasts.


    The entrance wasn''t deep, and soon, the bottom of it could be seen, where arger stone hally at its deepest part.


    Upon entering the cave, one could see the Golden Winged Mantis flying straight to a tricolored Spirit nt and taking a big bite out of it right away.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was also stunned. It seemed the Golden Winged Mantis had picked up bad habits from the Red-haired Demon Monkey, as it started eating without hesitation.


    And now, he had finally spotted those Spirit nts; they were all tricolored Dragon Blood Grass.


    This type of Dragon Blood Grass was said to only grow where there were Spirit Veins, and it was the best kind of Spiritual Medicine for Body Refinement.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    In front of him was arge patch, at least thirty nts, which greatly delighted Lin Shiming.


    With these Dragon Blood Grass nts, improving his Body Refining Cultivation to the level of Third Rank Foundation Establishment would be no problem at all.


    Of course, in that moment, he didn''t forget to put the Golden Winged Mantis into the Storage Bag. However, since the Golden Winged Mantis had contributed, he took out another Dragon Blood Grass and gave it to the mantis, to calm its incessant squeaking that was starting to annoy him.


    He then continued to survey the entirety of the stone hall within the cave.


    The Spirit Vein obviously originated from here. At the center, where the Dragon Blood Grass was thickest, Lin Shiming discovered arge patch of yellow soil. This soil,pact and distinct, glowed with faint Spirit Light and was brimming with vitality.


    It was the Third Rank Spirit Soil he was extremely familiar with.


    Moreover, there was quite a lot of it, at least thirty to forty jin, which meant that the Spirit Soil he was running low on due to the Golden Thunder Bamboo, Heavenly Spirit Fruit, and the Minor Divine Ability Tree was plentiful again.


    At this point, Lin Shiming was beside himself with joy; he hadn''t expected such a grand harvest simply from one outing.


    It was just unfortunate that he wasn''t a Spirit-Seeking Master, unable to transnt the Spirit Vein himself. He could only call his great-uncleter to transnt it together.


    This ce belonged to the Heavenly River State, the territory controlled by the Spirit Beast Sect, so it was out of the question for the Lin Family to use it as an asset for the n''s development.


    Lin Shiming collected the Spirit Soil and the Dragon Blood Grass, stowing them all safely within the Cave Heaven World.


    He then took out a Jade Box to ce the Dragon Lizard''s corpse inside, preventing the loss of blood essence and Spiritual Energy.


    After ensuring everything was settled, he checked the entire crevice again and found several more Spiritual Medicines, though not a single Guardian Spirit Beast.


    Apparently, the Spirit Beasts had either fled or be one with the whitened bones.


    Before leaving, Lin Shiming reorganized the contents of his internal Storage Bag, making sure not to keep Superior Grade Spirit Stones and Supreme Grade Magical Treasures in the Storage Bag after the experience of inspecting the Spirit Beast Bag earlier.


    He also brought out the remaining eighty-one Spirit Ants.


    These eighty-one Spirit Ants, perhaps due to ingesting Wind Fire Star Sand, now disyed some golden speckles of starlight on their bodies, had doubled in size, and exuded a fierce presence.


    This piqued Lin Shiming''s curiosity, and he ced the Spirit Ants into the Cave Heaven World, taking out some Wind Fire Star Sand for the ants to devour.


    With the current number of ants insufficient to form arge swarm, if their individual strength could break through to the Third Rank, they might be able to assist him.


    After handling the Spirit Ants, Lin Shiming took out his Flying Sword and began to hurry towards Heavenly River City.


    Upon arriving at the city gates, the guards conducted the customary check, using an Inquiry Spirit Talisman to pose questions, specifically targeting spies of the Heavenly Demon Sect, before allowing Lin Shiming to enter.


    Once Lin Shiming returned to the Lin Family''s loft, he informed Lin Xianzhi with a message, then once again entered seclusion.


    This time, his seclusion was to break through to the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment.


    ```


    The door was tightly shut, the formation fully activated.


    Lin Shiming, having brewed Mingxin Tea, sat on a meditation cushion below him and cultivated the Split Spirit Decision for half a day. He restored the essence, energy, and spirit within his body to their peak before retrieving Superior Grade Spirit Stones from the Cave Heaven World.


    Exactly five Superior Grade Spirit Stones surrounded him, forming a specific formation.


    The dense Spiritual Energy turned into a fierce wind that surged towards the inside of his body.


    And he, with utmost concentration, controlled the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, transforming all the Spiritual Energy into True Yuan.


    ...


    Spring left and autumn arrived, a year passed by. The countless battles had revealed the decaying state of Heavenly River City, its hundred-zhang tall walls now riddled with holes.


    Even the Purple Mansion cultivators in the sky had let loose their true power.


    This year alone saw several battles involving Golden Core cultivators.


    The great battles fought by Golden Core True Persons made all cultivators feel the overwhelming power of heaven and earth, too daunting to directly face, and names like Heavenly Beast True Person and Heavenly Sword True Person resonated far and wide.


    Upon the city walls, there were now even fewer members of the Lin Family n. Fortunately, all the main family members were still present. Lin Xianzhi stood firm on the ramparts, gazing into the distance.


    His full head of white hair had lost its previous luster.


    This old n leader of the Lin Family seemed increasingly aged under the pressure of the great battles. At this moment, Lin Xianzhi no longer maintained his youthful appearance but reverted back to looking like an old man.


    On that day, all the Lin Family members were shocked, and Lin Houyuan even sighed.


    He understood that the wielder of the Qinglian Sword might have lost his sharpness and will.


    Fortunately, it was evident that Lin Xianzhi still had plenty of life left in him and had not reached the point of dissipating his spirit.


    However, after this disy, the cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect lost interest in Lin Xianzhi. For more than a year, there had been no sneak attacks from demon cultivators or members of the Corpse Refining Sect; instead, they were repeatedly suppressed by their opponents.


    It was Lin Houyuan, however, who had suffered serious injuries during this time.


    Just then, the ck fog rose again over the Tongtian River.


    "Enemy attack!" Bells rang out in quick session throughout Heavenly River City.


    Countless cultivators flew towards the city walls.


    This time, the ck fog was noticeably thicker, with demon heads darting about. At the forefront, a demonic banner magical treasure turned into a gstaff dozens of zhang long; when waved, several Purple Mansion demon heads within it showed their ferocious ws and fangs.


    What was revealed was just the tip of the iceberg, for in the ck fogy other methods unseen by the Three Sects.


    On the side of Zhao Kingdom, the Hermit of the ck Jiao immediately led numerous Purple Mansion cultivators to meet the enemy, with the most prominent being the Hermit of the Golden Light from the Spirit Talisman Sect rushing to the forefront. This year, their sect had lost the most Purple Mansion cultivators¡ªthree in total¡ª


    One of which even got sessfully turned into a Fourth Rank Corpse General!


    This had him boiling with rage.


    Yet this was not the end of it. Suddenly from the midst of the ck fog, a red coffin flew out. As it emerged from the ck fog, the coffin lid fell, revealing an old man who looked over sixty.


    "Corpse Refining True Person, Heavenly Sword, I am at your service!" In the sky above, from Zhao Kingdom''s side, a towering sword flew out as well, with an old man in blue robes atop it, pointing his sword to the heavens.


    Beyond that, the Sea Demon True Person from the Heavenly Demon Sect, the Heavenly Beast True Person from the Spirit Beast Sect, the Thousand Talisman True Person from the Spirit Talisman Sect, and the Liu He True Person from the Heavenly Demon Sect simultaneously made their appearances.


    All six Golden Core powerhouses emerged at the same time,pletely igniting the atmosphere of the battlefield.


    The decisive battle had arrived!

 Chapter 183 Resentful Spirit (Please Subscribe)

    Six Golden Core True Persons, in order not to harm their own disciples, soared towards the Ninth Heaven.


    Fighting above, but even so, Sword Qi, Demon des, and the corpse mes of Corpse Refining asionally fell from the sky...


    Each time was like a divine punishment. Purple Mansion cultivators were still okay, but those at the Foundation Establishment phase couldn''t even avoid this stray force, and as for Qi Cultivators, it was a massacre.


    In front of the entire Heavenly River Great Wall, it instantaneously became like hell, while the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sectunched their most fierce attacks.


    The number of Purple Mansion cultivators had doubledpared to before, and the Foundation Establishment cultivators had tripled.


    As themander of the moment, the ck Jiao Hermit felt a chill in his heart. These past two years, the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect had obviously held back their strength.


    "Everyone, hold the walls, don''t hold back your Spirit Talismans and Magic Artifacts. The Three Sects of the Zhao Kingdom will bear all the costs afterward!"


    Seeing that many cultivators'' Magic Artifacts had been contaminated by the Heavenly Demon Sect''s demonic gourd and facing overwhelming numbers, the ck Jiao Hermit started to consider retreat, so he bellowed fiercely.


    His bellow, also imbued with a spell, resounded in the ears of every cultivator from the Three Sects, boosting the morale of the Three Sects substantially.


    Especially targeted towards the Immortal Cultivation families under the Three Sects, these families were the most passive in avoiding the battle.


    But now, with his shout, everyone''s faces turned awkward.


    However, their awkwardness was not out of embarrassment, but rather, given the current situation, the odds of victory were clearly not good, but if they were to retreat and be remembered by the ck Jiao Hermit, they would likely die even faster when that time came.


    The Lin Family''s Lin Xianzhi had even received a transmission from the Qingxuan Sect ordering families close to the Sect like the Lin Family to set a good example in the charge.


    But at this moment, how could Lin Xianzhi not understand that the city''s fall might happen today?


    He transmitted a series of instructions to Lin Houyuan, arranging for the Qi Cultivators inside the family''s city gate to notify Lin Shiming, then resolutely raised the Qinglian Sword, leading countless sword lights as he rushed toward the front.


    As long as Shiming was still in seclusion, he couldn''t retreat!


    Meanwhile, the Qian Family, which was also notified, still showedckluster interest, with Qian Bosheng pretending to fiercely attack a Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivator at thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    "Activate the Formation!" The ck Jiao Hermit noticed the particrly ferocious attack from the Heavenly Demon Sect, and the spell battle between the Golden Core True Persons in the sky was even more intense and chaotic.


    With a loudmand, a cultivator dressed in a Four Symbols Daoist robe threw out a stream of formation gs on the city gate, and then the defensive battle of Heavenly River City started to quiver.


    In the next moment, tens of thousands of Intermediate Grade Spirit Stones were consumed by the Formation, vanishing into nothingness.


    And the Spiritual Energy of the entire Spirit Formation began to undte ceaselessly, showing fierce beasts locking their prey, with the cries of myriad beasts resounding!


    "Myriad Beasts Formation, arise!"


    With anothermanding shout, tens of thousands of Spirit Beast True Spirits rushed towards the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect Cultivators.


    It was like an overwhelming surge of beasts, covering the sky and the earth, with beast roars deafening, as if it were truly a tide of beasts.


    And all the Demon Cultivators were thrown into great disorder, rushing to control their refined corpse chiefs to the front, forming a wall of corpses to block the way.


    All the cultivators from the Zhao Kingdom suddenly felt a great burden lifted, exulting with joy, and in an instant, every spell they cast was three parts more fierce.


    They could onlyment why the Sect had not revealed this powerful Formation weapon earlier.


    The onught of beasts was far more terrifying than the blood corpses of the Corpse Refining Sect and the host of demons.


    A single initial charge had nearly crushed half of the Corpse Refining Sect''s corpse trainers, shattered the Heavenly Demon Sect''s demon banners into countless pieces, imed the lives of many Foundation Establishment Cultivators on the spot, and even imed a Purple Mansion Cultivator, who was overwhelmed by the True Spirit Beast Tide and perished on the spot.


    "The Fifth Rank Myriad Beasts Formation is indeed extraordinary!" Facing off against the ck Dragon Hermit was the Corpse Refining Sect''s Profound Corpse Hermit, who was still smiling lightly at this moment.


    As if the recent attack hadn''t inflicted any damage on his Sect.


    "Profound Corpse, knowing the Formation''s power, why do you not retreat swiftly? Zhao Kingdom is hardly a ce for you demon cultivators to run amok!" The ck Dragon Hermit also bellowed in anger and, holding the ck Dragon Sword, shed out once again.


    Profound Corpse Hermit gave a coldugh without replying and also stepped forward with a sword strike.


    However, at this moment, three Golden Corpses shielded the Golden Corpse Child as he advanced and, unbeknownst to anyone, reached the walls of Heavenly River City.


    From his hands, no fewer than three thousand six hundred coffins flew out,pletely encircling Heavenly River City in an imprable circle.


    The host of Purple Mansion Cultivators in the sky hurriedly realized something was amiss and tried to intervene, but they were tied down by the cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect.


    The next moment saw the three thousand six hundred coffins being opened one after another, releasing countless blood corpses simr to those previously unleashed by the Golden Corpse Hermit.


    "Not good, quickly infuse spiritual energy!" The ck Dragon Hermit shouted loudly, signaling the cultivators inside the city to take out Spirit Stones and restore the Myriad Beasts Formation.


    But it was already toote. The next instant, the three thousand six hundred blood corpses exploded into a fierce blood mist, along with millions of vengeful spirits, rushing toward the Spirit Formation.


    Under the sky covered in blood mist, millions of vengeful spirits screamed, trampled, and charged, breaking through the Spirit Formation of the Myriad Beasts Sect as though it were melting ice and snow, not holding up for even a moment before it began to massively copse and shatter.


    The terrifying aftermath directly hit some Cultivators, causing them to bleed from all orifices, their eyes blood-red as if they were bing corpses.


    Moreover, those millions of vengeful spirits also started to self-destruct at this moment,pletely blowing open the already unstable Formation, destroying the formation base and leaving no possibility for repair.


    "Profound Corpse, you dare to integrate vengeful spirits into corpses!!!" The ck Dragon Hermit was extremely furious.


    Those three thousand six hundred blood corpses were not only cultivated from the fallen cultivators but had also been sacrificed with the blood of millions of mortals, infused with the vengeful spirits into the bodies of the Xue Sha corpses to break the Formation.


    And without the Formation, Heavenly River City would no longer be a natural stronghold, and Heavenly River State would inevitably fall into the hands of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect¡ªat that time, even these Purple Mansion Cultivators would face death.


    The shattering of the Formation caused the Zhao Kingdom''s cultivators to feel a wave of despair, and a group of Sect disciples, who had already been prepared to escape, began to flee.


    This was something already arranged by the Sect disciples.


    They ran surprisingly fast, and then some Foundation Establishment Cultivator families also came to their senses and quickly retreated.


    At this time, no one could stop the assault of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect.


    "Fellow disciples, we will hold them off first, allowing our own Sect disciples to retreat!" The ck Dragon Hermit''s heart was torn, as he hadn''t expected the Formation of Heavenly River City to be destroyed on his watch.


    But at this moment, they, as Purple Mansion Cultivators, couldn''t retreat; if the Purple Mansion Cultivators were to leave, no one would stop the Purple Mansion Cultivators of the two Sects. By then, the Foundation Establishment disciples and Qi Cultivation disciples would have no chance of survival.


    But even as Purple Mansion Cultivators stood their ground, the ck Dragon Hermit still noticed that the Zhao Kingdom''s cultivators were being cut down like wheat by the cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect.


    In the midst of the great battle, Lin Hou Yuan was engulfed in grief. Lin Xianzhi, having charged too far forward, was now trapped by twote-stage Foundation Establishment and one perfect-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    And he felt helpless, unable toe to the rescue, and even forced to lead the Qi Cultivation members of the Lin Family to flee in disgrace.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

 Chapter 185 Decision

    ```


    The speed of the Third Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Boat instantly increased a notch as Lin Shiming controlled it, heading towards White Leaf Continent, which was adjacent to Heavenly River State.


    White Leaf Continent was also thergest state of the Spirit Beast Sect, where the main forces of the sect were located.


    The cultivators of Zhao Kingdom were almost all retreating towards White Leaf Continent as well.


    The raging wind struck Lin Shiming''s face, making him even calmer inside. With the Third Rank Wind Escape Talisman, indeed even an average Purple Mansion cultivator without a flying magical treasure might not be able to catch up to him.


    But in the next moment, Lin Shiming thought of his father, Lin Houyuan, and others.


    At the time the city was breached, it was themunication from the Lin Family n that he sensed that made him leave his retreat. Because it was a dedicated retreat, unless the formation of the retreat was destroyed, he would not have noticed the changes outside.


    At that time, he had justpleted a breakthrough to the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment and had consolidated his cultivation level with the Tribtion-Resolving Elixir given by Lin Xianzhi. He also incidentallypleted the refining of the Formation Swords, forming the Great Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    Otherwise, he might not have been able to leave with Lin Xianzhi under the circumstances at that time.


    But because he exited the retreat too hastily, he had only fully refined the Purple Gold Gourd, and that Supreme Grade flying sword had not been refined yet. At the same time, his Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique was only at thete stage of Qi Cultivation.


    On the way, Lin Shiming had the fewest injuries.


    As he recovered his True Yuan, his Purple Wood Heart Sutra also had a natural advantage.


    At this moment, he was able to multitask, keeping his Divine Sense on the pursuers.


    At the same time, his Divine Sense continuously swept underneath the ground and every thousand miles, he waved his hand toward the ground and retrieved an Iron Thornwood seed.


    The appearance of Iron Thornwood seeds in the wild would not draw the attention of other cultivators, making it an excellent marker.


    This was something he had given to his father before leaving.


    But the more he watched, the more rmed he became, as the distance between the markers was growing, and they were somewhat scattered.


    Clearly, the Lin Family n members were fleeing!


    ...


    In an endless forest, a Spirit Boat was flying desperately, and low-rank wind Spirit Talismans were affixed to the Spirit Boat.


    Even though Second Rank Spirit Talismans were not very effective on a Third Rank Spirit Boat, at this moment, none of the Lin Family n members hesitated, frantically executing Spirit Arts, sticking Spirit Talismans to the Spirit Boat, despite the minuscule effect.


    Lin Houyuan nced at the pursuers behind him once again with Divine Sense, and his brow furrowed deeper, hisplexion bing extremely grim.


    The demonic cultivators of the Spirit Sect were less than a hundred miles behind them. At such a distance, even if they exhausted all their Spirit Talismans and used up all their True Yuan, they still wouldn''t be able to control the Spirit Boat to escape.


    Continue reading on empire


    "Everyone, the demon cultivators are not far behind," Lin Houyuan''s statement also made the dozen or so people on the Spirit Boat look despondently for a moment.


    To think that when they set out, they had thirty-seven Qi Cultivation cultivators at theter stages, and now, only a dozen remained.


    Just as they were about to escape from Heavenly River State, they were unexpectedly targeted by demon cultivators.


    The older generation of cultivators like Lin Yuqing, Lin Houyong, Lin Houshou, and Lin Houyu hesitated for three moments before taking steps forward, suddenly in the same position as Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Shiyi, as well as Lin Houwei, instantly realized and tookrge steps forward, only to be pushed back by Lin Houyuan raising his hand, forming True Yuan.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Besides them, Lin Shiyun, Lei Xuan, and several of the younger generation of those with the surname Hou also took determined steps!


    "What are you doing? You think you can look down on us old folks now? The Lin Family has always had a tradition of preserving the seedlings and not the old seeds," Lin Yuqing cursed with a bit of anger.


    ```


    As a Law Enforcement Hall Elder and the Great Elder of the Lin Family, Lin Yuqing had scolded nearly every cultivator present.


    At this moment, hearing his admonishment, some eyes suddenly reddened.


    "I am relieved to see that you could alle out, you are all good sons of the Lin Family, but this time, you have an even more important mission, and that is to ensure our legacy!" Lin Houyuan also said loudly. There was a time when he too, was scolded by his elders like this, perhaps a little bewildered back then.


    But at this moment, his heart felt it even more deeply.


    Not only did the Lin Family have hundreds of members practicing immortal cultivation, but there were also over a hundred thousand mortals from the Lin Family, whose fearless sacrifices were but like moths to me. In the world of cultivation, as long as the lineage persisted, everything was possible.


    If Qi Cultivation couldn''t overpower, try Foundation Establishment. If Foundation Establishment was not enough, escte to Purple Mansion, and if even Purple Mansion failed, then it muste to Golden Core!


    Lin Houwei began to understand, gripping his hip sk so tightly it seemed he might crush the spout.


    Being born into a family of cultivators, they understood all too well the import of lineage.


    Yet, Lin Shiyi was still incredibly stubborn at this moment, continuing to walk towards Lin Yuqing while muttering under his breath¡ªhe was a Body Cultivation practitioner.


    "Stop causing trouble, Shiyi. You will eventually surpass this old man and be the true number one Body Refining Cultivator of the Lin Family!" Lin Yuqing spoke again. He actually wanted to scold him, but remembering these were likely hisst few words, his tone softened by half, turning into persuasion.


    "Family Head, let me go. They''reing for me, and I hope the remaining brothers and sisters can take care of Shiqi," Lei Xuan stepped forward.


    As a Thunder Spirit Root cultivator, it was the release of his thunder attribute spell during thest moments of the city''s defense that caused the Lin Family to catch such unwanted attention.


    For the Heavenly Demon Sect, other cultivators could escape, but a Thunder Cultivator had to be killed on sight.


    This city battle saw most cultivators with the thunder attribute ambushed by the Demon Cultivators.


    Lei Xuan was only okay because he hid well, and of course, nobody thought that a Thunder Spirit Root Cultivator would emerge from the Lin Family.


    This time Lin Houyuan nodded in agreement; after all, Lei Xuan had been captured and married into the family. While Lin Shiming was at ease about him, they were admittedly a little worried, and the chase this time indeed had something to do with Lei Xuan.


    "It''s decided then. I, Uncle, Big Brother Hou Yong, Second Brother Hou Shou, Sixth Brother Hou Yu, and Lei Xuan, are responsible for staying behind to face the enemy. Everyone else should try to escape with three Earth Escape Talismans each!" Lin Houyuan ordered.


    The Lin Family Elders also entrusted theirst words to Lin Houwei, handing over any Jade Slips and treasures that could benefit their descendants to him.


    Then Lin Houyuan and the others slowed their speed, waiting for the Demon Cultivators to arrive, while Lin Houwei and the rest disembarked from the Spirit Boat and utilized Wind Escape Talismans to flee before using Earth Escape Talismans to make their escape.


    These Escape Talismans had been obtained by Lin Shiming after he killed cultivators from the Huang Family in the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    "If only the seventh was here!" Lin Shiyi also sounded somewhat somber, but he didn''t slow down and continued to flee forward.


    Soon, a ck Spirit Boat with arge g appeared in the sky not far away.


    The Spirit Boat was not yet close when countless Flying Knife Artifacts began to be hurled towards Lin Houyuan''s Spirit Boat.


    Following the flying knives came Flying Needles!


    The cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect rarely used swords; most of theirbat involved magical gs, which were handy and made it convenient to absorb the souls of in enemies into the gs, increasing the power of the Heavenly Demon gs.


    But this didn''t mean that the Heavenly Demon Sect cultivatorscked proficiency with other Magic Artifacts. On the contrary, their Flying Needle Artifacts, Flying Knife Artifacts, and their polluted Magical Gourds were numerous.


    The Flying Knives were immensely powerful. Lin Houyuan had to wield three Intermediate Grade Third Rank Formation Swords just to fend off the Flying Knives. But as soon as the knives were dealt with, the Flying Needle Artifacts arrived, leaving Lin Houyuan in a frantic defense.


    And the Magical gs of the Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators also swiftly approached.


    Two middle-stage Foundation Establishment Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators, one early-stage Foundation Establishment, plus over a dozen Qi Cultivation disciples!

 Chapter 186 Refinement while Alive

    The leading demon cultivator was a lean, dark-faced cultivator named Xu Qiu, who looked over at Lin Houyuan with sharp, hawk-like eyes.


    He then turned his gaze toward the distance, looking in each of the four directions, one by one.


    Finally, he gave orders to the surrounding Qi Cultivators and to a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator.


    That Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator instantly understood that the big fish of the moment was not for him.


    He wasn''t annoyed, though; within the Heavenly Demon Sect, this was all toomon. Only those with formidable strength had the right to choose their spoils of war.


    Lin Houyuan saw a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator of the Heavenly Demon Sect leading Qi Cultivators in pursuit of Lin Houwei, prompting him to react immediately and burst forth.


    He wielded three Intermediate Grade Third Rank magic swords to their utmost, shing towards the Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator.


    However, this proactive attack yed right into Xu Qiu''s hands.


    The Heavenly Demon banner on the spirit boat waved over, and a sky-full of ck fog surged towards Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Houyuan could only retreat continuously; he knew that if he were enveloped by the ck fog, he wouldn''tst a quarter of an hour and would surely die, making any attempt to stall the enemy meaningless.


    As Lin Houyuan kept dodging, he hadn''t expected that another Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator from the Heavenly Demon Sect woulde up behind him. Wielding another demon banner, the cultivator cut off Lin Houyuan''s retreat.


    Suddenly, Lin Houyuan was hard-pressed to move.


    The other Lin Family cultivators also faced Qi Cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect. The Great Elder, Lin Yuqing, was injured almost immediately upon engagement.


    It''s true that he practiced Body Refinement, but his age was quite advanced, and the Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators were numerous and powerful.


    Luckily, at that moment, Lei Xuan alone was using Thunder Techniques, creating booming noises and charring many of the Heavenly Demon Sect Qi Cultivators'' magic artifacts.


    For the time being, he yed an even more significant role than Lin Houqing, a Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivator.


    Of course, the most critical person was Lin Houshou. He took out several formation gs and, while setting them up, faced three Qi Cultivator demon cultivators without falling behind.


    At this moment, it was Lin Houyuan who was in the most danger.


    Caught off guard and surrounded by two Heavenly Demon banners, he had no choice but to grit his teeth, activate his Spirit Light Shield, charge into the demonic mist, andmand his Flying Sword, seeking to y the demon heads.


    The fearsome aspect of the Heavenly Demon Bannery in the demon heads and some tormented spirits contained within.


    However, what troubled him was that the two Heavenly Demon banners together unleashed ten demon heads.


    The lean cultivator Xu Qiu even shouted:


    "Brother Ye, don''t be hasty to kill. Alive tormenting to death cultivates potential demon heads!"


    In an instant, the ten demon heads each sprayed their life essence demonic energy towards Lin Houyuan from ten different directions.


    However, no sooner had his words dropped,


    The next moment, a dazzlingly brilliant Spirit Boat suddenly flew over, so swiftly that the two demon cultivators hadn''t yet reacted.


    And Lin Shiming himself flew out from the Spirit Boat, and in the next instant, a Heavenly Demon Bag flew out, transforming into a massive yellow pouch in the sky.


    A ferocious wind burst forth, scattering the two Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators.


    "How audacious!" Seeing that the neer was a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator, Xu Qiu was enraged and quickly maneuvered his Heavenly Demon Banner, ready to counterattack Lin Shiming.


    But then, a Golden Beast Ring flew out, binding the two together, while their arms tried to perform a Spirit Art.


    However, two streaks of sword light swept through, and Xu Qiu''s and the other demon cultivator''s arms fell off in an instant.


    The Heavenly Demon Bag shone again, collecting the two inside.


    The remaining Qi Cultivators were in utter panic by now, but Lin Xianzhi''s Green Lotus Sword struck them down one by one, so thoroughly that their bodies were shattered and their bones scattered without a trace.


    Lin Houyuan also fell from the sky.


    "Father!" Lin Shiming quickly came forward to support him.


    "Shiming, go save Houwei Shiyi!" Lin Houyuan forcibly suppressed the fresh blood at the corner of his mouth and pointed in the direction where Lin Houwei and others were fleeing.


    Chased by a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator, Lin Houwei and the others, even if they used Wind Escape Talisman and Earth Escape Talisman, it would be useless, knowing that Lin Family''s escape talismans were all just Second Rank.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming didn''t hesitate and immediately flew on his sword.


    Only after flying for hundreds of meters did he find the two, Lin Houwei and Lin Shiyi, one skilled with a gourd and the other a body cultivator, both key individuals protected by the family.


    At the moment, they were being viciously whipped by an Early Stage Foundation Establishment demon cultivator, with a Heavenly Demon Banner hovering in the air, ready at any moment to refine Lin Shiyi''s soul into a demon.


    The demon cultivator was nowughing fiendishly to the extreme, as if he had already reaped a demon with great potential.


    "Die!" Lin Shiming was extremely angry, these Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators were indeed unforgivable, an innumerable amount of cuts would not be too many.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword flew out, instantly ying the Early Stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    Lin Houwei was okay, protected by Jin Sha, and his cultivation level was at Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, but Lin Shiyi was now covered in blood.


    A Body Refining Cultivator, after all, was only at the Qi Cultivation realm and he had fallen into aa.


    "Thirteenth Uncle, get on my Spirit Boat!" Lin Shiming fed Lin Shiyi a Healing Pill, gave Lin Houwei a bottle of Healing Pills, then steered the Spirit Boat, found everyone including Lin Shiyun, and by the time they regrouped with Lin Xianzhi, a quarter of an hour had passed.


    "Shiming, we must drive the Spirit Boat away now, otherwise the demon cultivators will catch up!" Xie An''splexion was not bad at the moment, as it''s only natural to help family members.


    But he still needed to give a necessary warning; the Purple Mansion cultivators from Zhao Kingdom were also fast, and when the Purple Mansion cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect arrived, that would be a big trouble.


    After regrouping with Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming continued to rush towards White Leaf Continent.


    On the Spirit Boat, everyone looked at Lin Shiyi, who wouldn''t wake up from hisa, their faces filled with grief.


    Lin Shiyi was too seriously injured, even as a Body Refining Cultivator, he was struggling to hold on.


    Lin Houwei was showing a face full of self-me, frantically worrying.


    "It''s alright, let me do it!" Lin Shiming saw Lin Shiyi drenched in blood and suffering greatly, and took out a small bottle of fresh blood from his hand.


    This bottle of blood was extremely dense, with spiritual patterns moving within it, obviously quite extraordinary.


    He propped up Lin Shiyi, allowing thetter to lean on his hand, then poured the small bottle into Lin Shiyi''s mouth.


    "Will this work?" Lin Yuqing was also somewhat worried.


    She thought everything would be fine once Lin Shiming arrived.


    But she didn''t expect that Lin Shiyi, the family''s potential Body Refining Cultivator, would be almost soul-whipped by a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    The next moment, to everyone''s amazement, after swallowing that blood, Lin Shiyi began to cough violently, which made everyone rejoice, not expecting it to actually work.


    "Shiming, is that the blood of a Pseudo Dragon?" At this moment, Xie An also looked over, disbelief on his face.


    Pseudo Dragons, another term for dragon beasts, have very precious blood and flesh. Even the blood of the lowest Third Rank dragon beast isparable to a Supreme Grade magic artifact, especially for a Body Refining Cultivator.


    These could allow a Body Refining Cultivator to breakthrough realms,parable to Barrier-Breaking Pills.


    Only the blood of a dragon beast could activate Lin Shiyi''s body, prompting it to start recovering automatically.


    "Yes, a dragon beast that was luckily in!" Lin Shiming nodded, the existence of the Dragon Lizard was not hidden the moment he took it out.


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    In such a situation, no matter how precious a dragon beast was, saving Lin Shiyi was what mattered.


    "Shiming, I wonder if I could exchange for some of the dragon beast''s blood?" Xie An spoke again, obviously excited.

 Chapter 187 Dragon Blood Pill

    Xie An''s words did surprise Lin Shiming somewhat.


    Xie An was a pure sword cultivator, with almost all of his weapons being magic swords.


    For him to want the blood of these dragon lizards was almost without reason.


    "Brother Xie, naturally we can make the exchange, but the dragon lizard I killed was not an adult dragon lizard!" Lin Shiming didn''t refuse.


    However, it was impossible for him to trade away the whole thing, knowing that whether for his own Body Refinement Cultivation of the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique, or for Lin Shiyi, it was extremely valuable.


    "No need for much, just thirty pounds of flesh and blood will do, but I need ten drops of essence blood!" Xie An hurriedly said.


    After saying this, he seemingly noticed the confusion on the faces of Lin Shiming and the other members of the Lin Family, and immediately exined.


    "Shiming, perhaps the news I''m about to share might actually be good news. Do you know what the greatest effect of pseudo-dragon blood is?"


    Xie An pursed his lips, posing the question, then looked at Lin Shiming and then at Lin Xianzhi.


    However, both were utterly perplexed.


    "It''s the Qi and blood. The Qi and blood of a pseudo-dragon beast are dozens of times that of a normal spirit beast and cannot be quantified by numbers. This kind of pseudo-dragon blood can be used to refine Dragon Blood Pills in the Qingxuan Sect!"


    "The effect of this kind of Dragon Blood Pill is also very straightforward¡ªit significantly improves a cultivator''s Qi and blood!"


    "In other words, even if someone is over sixty years old, as long as their age does not exceed the limit by too much and they have sufficiently tempered their Spiritual Energy, they can attempt a Foundation Establishment breakthrough with a Dragon Blood Pill even at eighty years old!"


    As Xie An spoke these words, everyone held their breath, and at this moment, Lin Shiming also felt a stir of excitement.


    But the most stirred was the Seventh Elder of the Lin Family, Lin Houshou, Lin Shiming''s second uncle.


    He had an extremely strong innate talent for formations, but because he waste in breaking through the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level andcked time to polish his True Yuan, he had to give up the idea of Foundation Establishment after reaching his sixtieth year.


    But now, at this moment, Xie An''s words were like sweet rain after a long drought, lighting up his eyes with infinite brilliance.


    "I won''t hide it from you, I too need to boost my Qi and blood in preparation for breaking through to the Purple Mansion!" Xie An added, although he appeared to be in his middle years, his actual age was already over one hundred and eighty, and while his Qi and blood were not insufficient for a Purple Mansion breakthrough,


    ample Qi and blood could increase his chances.


    This was something Xie An should not have disclosed, but since he was the one who initiated the exchange for the beast blood and had a special rtionship with the Lin Family, he went ahead and said it.


    "No problem, Brother Xie, and don''t even mention an exchange. After you sessfully make the pills, if you can get more than three, just return one to me!" Lin Shiming was also excited at this moment since the Dragon Blood Pills were undoubtedly a rare treasure for their family.


    Lin Shiming immediately took out a Jade Box holding half a dragon lizard, and also a small Jade Bottle containing twenty drops of essence blood, and handed them to Xie An.


    Seeing Lin Shiming''s straightforwardness, Xie An was also filled with joy, carefully storing the Jade Box and Jade Bottle while solemnly promising: Enjoy new chapters from empire


    "Shiming, Xianzhi, I won''t say much else, with these pseudo-dragon blood samplesbined with some special Spirit Grasses, refining the Dragon Blood Pills should yield no less than five pills. I will keep two for myself, and the rest, no matter the amount, I will give all to you!"


    "Moreover, whether I reach the Purple Mansion or not, I will owe the Lin Family a favor!"


    Xie An''s first sentence had already made the entire Lin Family incredibly happy.


    At least three Dragon Blood Pills would allow the Lin Family to have three more Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    But thest sentence was what truly shocked Lin Shiming.


    In the Cultivation World, such a solemn favor isn''t given lightly; failing to fulfill it could severely affect one''s chances of breaking through a major realmter on.


    So, the Lin Family gained at least the support of a maximum leveled Foundation Establishment cultivator, and if Xie An breaks through to the Purple Mansion realmter, it would mean the aid of a Purple Mansion expert.


    "With Brother Xie''s talent, breaking through to the Purple Mansion is just a matter of time. Here, Shiming offers his congrattions in advance!" After congratting once more, the crowd checked on Lin Shiyi''s injuries again.


    Seeing that they were slowly improving, Lin Shiming once again moved to the very front of the Spirit Boat to relieve Lin Xianzhi, who was currently steering.


    Only a cultivator at thetter stage of Foundation Establishment could fully control a third-rank supreme-grade Spirit Boat, and Lin Shiming could do it because his True Yuan was much denser than that of an average Cultivator, and he also had an auxiliary Spirit tform.


    On this Spirit Boat, there were only three people: Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi, and Xie An.


    As the junior, it was only right for Lin Shiming to take the helm.


    In such a moment of escape, there was no room for anyone to bex.


    However, while controlling the Spirit Boat, Lin Shiming also took out the Heavenly Demon Bag, and two Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators who had their limbs chopped off and were barely alive after being tortured by the wind des, came into view.


    Their miserable state was even worse than that of Lin Shiyi.


    This sight made the others feel a bit shocked but at the same time somewhat exhrated.


    These two Cultivators, relying on their Foundation Establishment cultivation level, had be notorious demons by torturing other Cultivators to obtain their resentful spirits.


    To Cultivators like them, not being chopped into a thousand pieces was already generous.


    Lin Shiming didn''t say much but abruptly began to activate the Soul Searching Technique, conducting on-the-spot soul searching on the two demon cultivators.


    His powerful Divine Sense violently invaded the minds of the two demon cultivators, and in the next moment, screams of agony echoed as their sea of consciousness shattered and their souls perished!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Both had a Sect''s Jade Book, which should have protected them, so the soul searching yielded no results.


    But Lin Shiming wasn''t actually trying to search their souls; he just didn''t want to reveal the Split Spirit de, and killing them with the Soul Searching Technique let them know what it felt like to be tormented to death.


    Afterward, Lin Shiming handed the storage bags over to Lin Houyuan, letting his father look through the storage bags of the two Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    Of course, in reality, it meant handing over the spoils of war to his father.


    Although Lin Houyuan had broken through to Foundation Establishment more than ten years ago, his True Yuan was still not fully tempered, and when it came to magic artifacts, he didn''t possess any particrly formidable ones. In normal times, he might refuse what his son offered, even when his son gave him some Spirit Stones, Lin Houyuan did not always ept.


    These two demon cultivators were mediocre in strength, and so were the magic artifacts they used; this situation provided Lin Shiming with an opportunity to present treasures to his father.


    While he was controlling the Spirit Boat, with Lin Xianzhi and Xie An, one atter stage Foundation Establishment Cultivator and the other at perfect Foundation Establishment, naturally, they had no interest in the storage bags of two ordinary middle-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators.


    Moreover, the two were in by Lin Shiming himself.


    The magic artifacts and Spirit Stones in the storage bags naturally remained with Lin Houyuan.


    Of course, if there were good treasures, Lin Houyuan would discuss them with him.


    After all the affairs were settled, Lin Shiming continued to pilot the Spirit Boat, while Lin Houyuan, Lin Xianzhi, and Xie An each found a room to continue their recovery.


    What made Lin Shiming sigh was that Lin Xianzhi stowed away the superior-grade Spirit Stones and began to use intermediate-grade Spirit Stones for recovery, as well as taking Healing Pills.


    The Spirit Boat smoothly set its course towards the White Leaf Continent.


    And just then, the system alert reappeared:


    "Beware of the small Mount Tai ahead; you are about to be ambushed by Chen Yui!"

 Chapter 188 The Li Family Reemerges

    ```


    Beneath the rosy clouds, atop the Spirit Boat.


    Lin Shiming suddenly stood up, looked ahead, and saw, vaguely behind the dense clouds, a small hill resembling a disc.


    There was no warning from his Divine Sense, just like thest time with Yunjing Mountain, without any forewarning.


    Not until Chen Yui''s Spirit Boat approached the Formation did Lin Shiming and Lin Gang notice anything.


    This time was no different, and even Xie An had not noticed.


    One could imagine how adept Chen Yui''s concealment methods were.


    But what puzzled him the most was how Chen Yui had managed to get ahead of them.


    Keep in mind that they were on a Third Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Boat, enhanced with a set of Third Rank Wind Escape Talismans.


    However, confusing as it was, now was not the time to worry about it.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    As Lin Shiming executed a Spirit Art with his hands, the Spirit Boat abruptly veered to the left, circumventing the small mesa.


    Not knowing what kind of Formation was ahead, he naturally didn''t dare to charge straight at it.


    This sudden eleration and change of course caused both Xie An and Lin Xianzhi to emerge from their rooms on the Spirit Boat, looking at Lin Shiming with faces full of confusion.


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    But upon seeing the extremely serious expression on Lin Shiming''s face, they all felt a jolt of surprise and then released their Divine Senses vigorously.


    Xie An, in particr, extensively scoured the surrounding thousand miles with his Divine Sense.


    Yet, he immediately felt confused because, under his Divine Sense, he was confident that no movement, no matter how minor, could escape him unless it was a Purple Mansion cultivator.


    And a Purple Mansion cultivator would have no need to ambush them¡ªthey could simply fly up and start a massacre.


    Lin Xianzhi looked around and wore the same puzzled expression.


    "Uncle Seventh Ancestor, Brother Xie, my Spirit Beast sensed fear on that small mesa. There might be a mutant beast!" Lin Shiming also opened his mouth to exin, then released the Golden Winged Mantis.


    At that moment, the Golden Winged Mantis was resplendent with golden light, clearly extraordinary, and now the size of a calf. After devouring Dragon Lizard meat and Dragon Blood Grass, its golden limbs were even sharper, such that ncing at it felt like having the edge of a knife at one''s back, unbearable to look at directly.


    Especially its six wings, which were exceptionally elongated, far surpassing the elegance of a regr mantis''s secondary wings.


    "Is this a mutant Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis?" Xie An certainly had heard of the Spirit Beast Sect''s list of heavenly and earthly Spirit Insects.


    But at that moment, the Golden Winged Mantis''s appearance far outshone that of the Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis in the list.


    And as far as he knew, Lin Shiming also had a Red-haired Demon Monkey with Strange Fire.


    For a moment, Xie An began to feel some envy towards Lin Shiming.


    "Exactly, Shiming''s mantis has an extremely keen sense of danger!" Lin Xianzhi immediately nodded, knowing of the mantis''s capabilities since Lin Shiming had mentioned them a few times before.


    With this in mind, he understood Lin Shiming''s reasons for taking a detour.


    And then he began to exin this to Xie An.


    "The Lin Family is truly worthy of their former status as a Purple Mansion family, with such a profound heritage!" Xie An could not help but exim.


    Of course, no one responded to this¡ªQi Cultivators couldn''t contribute to the conversation, and Lin Xianzhi chose not to speak.


    Otherwise, if Xie An knew that Lin Shiming had only paid ten Spirit Stones for the insect egg, who knows what he would think.


    The small mesa was vast and also the closest route to Jiuye City on the border of White Leaf Continent. This detour meant they had thousands of extra miles to travel.


    What no one could believe was that, as Lin Shiming detoured, a massive ship suddenly rose from the small mesa.


    Only then did everyone realize that what was on the mesa was not some mutant beast but rather Heavenly Demon Sect Cultivators lying in wait to rob them.


    And what changed their expressions drastically was the realization that the over a hundred feet long Spirit Boat was, in fact, a War Treasure Ship.


    At this moment, they understood why Chen Laomo and others had waited for them on Xiao Tai Mountain so much in advance.


    The Fourth Rank War Treasure Ship was iparable to a Supreme Grade Third Rank Spirit Stone; the gap between them was as vast as the heavens and the earth.


    And the speed at which it pursued them was far beyond everyone''s expectations; it caught up in the blink of an eye.


    The hearts of everyone turned to ash, for a Fourth Rank Treasure Ship was not only extremely fast but also came equipped with powerful onboard formations.


    Not to mention, the presence of the Treasure Ship usually meant the presence of Purple Mansion cultivators.


    A Foundation Establishment cultivator couldn''t possibly hold such sway.


    "Let''s split up and escape!" Lin Xianzhi''s mood had plummeted to rock bottom. Just when he thought they had made a narrow escape, they were ambushed at Xiao Tai Mountain.


    "Wait, there are no Purple Mansion cultivators with them, it''s Chen Laomo!" Lin Shiming suddenly spoke up.


    At that moment, Xie An also probed with his Divine Sense and indeed only discovered Chen Laomo, Chen Yui, along with merely threete Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    There were also only three mid Foundation Establishment cultivators, though there were quite a few Qi Cultivators.


    But with so few Foundation Establishment cultivators, controlling the Treasure Ship was a difficult task, let alone using its onboard formations for attack!


    "It''s Li Chengxian from the Li family!" Lin Xianzhi also spoke up at this moment.


    However, the person he saw shocked the entire Lin Family.


    This Li Chengxian was none other than the once invincible sessor of the Yunzhou Li family.


    Li Chengxian was acimed as the sessor of the Li family, barely a hundred years old, but already at thete stage of Foundation Establishment and a Purple Mansion seed of the Li family. It''s just that afterwards, the Li family defected from the Qingxuan Sect, and Li Chuanhuan died in the Qingyun Mountains.


    Without any Purple Mansion cultivators, even if the Li family had sought refuge with the Heavenly Demon Sect, their days would not have been easy.


    And thus, it finally made sense. This War Treasure Ship was clearly the one bought by the Purple Mansion Family, the Li family, back in the day.


    After Li Chuanhuan''s death, naturally, the Treasure Ship came under the control of Li Chengxian.


    Chen Laomo with Li Chengxian and so few Foundation Establishment disciples in tow, at this moment, he even suspected that Chen Laomo had his eyes on Li Chengxian''s Treasure Ship.


    The Treasure Ship approached extremely quickly, leaving them no time to react.


    Suddenly, a massive ck grinding disc appeared in the sky, emitting endless dim light.


    It swept toward the Supreme Grade Spirit Boat.


    "Hou Yuan, take the rest of our n and pull back a bit; leave this to us three!" Lin Xianzhi shouted.


    He then drew the Qinglian Sword and shed fiercely at the ck grinding disc.


    A giant Qinglian Sword Light transformed into a green lotus, continuously blocking the grinding disc magic artifact. Countless sparks poured down like a waterfall.


    At this moment, Chen Laomo also took out a demon g.


    The demon g turned into thirty feet in size in the blink of an eye, resembling the gates of hell, and more than a dozen demon heads charged out from inside.


    These demon heads had a minimum cultivation level ofte Third Rank, and some were even equivalent to the perfection of Foundation Establishment, the pinnacle of the Third Rank demon heads, of which there were two.


    Those two demon heads were both childlike in appearance, yet with blue faces and fangs, looking ferocious and terrifying, emitting a formidable evil qi.


    A cold me blew out like the fires of hell, eerily horrifying, heading towards Lin Shiming and the others.


    Xie An at that moment also took out his Supreme Grade magic sword, and streaks of sword light shed out, unfolding the ghostly mes.


    However, those ghostly winds were like boneless mouths, floating above the Spirit Sword, still slowly eroding the sword light.


    "You have the Yin-Yang Demon Child!" Xie An also eximed, his face full of disbelief.


    Chen Laomo had hidden his strength during the battle at Heavenly River City!!

 Chapter 189 Underworld Tiger?

    "Be careful not to destroy the soul-devouring ant on that kid, I have great use for it!" Chen Yui said coldly to the few people behind him, then stepped forward with a grinding disc in one hand and a demon banner in the other.


    The terrifying grinding disc began to spin, emitting a kaka sound like rice being ground. The sound, which seemed to crush everything, made everyone feel as if their divine souls were being sucked into the disc, and wildly ground to pieces.


    Xie An was clearly faring better, as the jade pendant around his neck suddenly emitted an endless green glow, enveloping and protecting him. On the other hand, Lin Xianzhi waspletely unable to concentrate, and his swordsmanship was greatly wed.


    In the next moment, the grinding disc forcibly dispersed the Sword Lotus, turning it into green light that faded and disappeared, and the Green Lotus Sword was sent flying back.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, let me do it!" Seeing this, Lin Shiming knew that with the grinding disc present, Lin Xianzhi would not be able to wield his swordsmanship effectively.


    Instead, because of his cultivation in the Split Spirit Decision, he was not just resistant to the soul-crushing effects of the grinding disc, but even if his divine soul was indeed momentarily crushed, he was conscious enough to undergo repair.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming took out thirty-six Formation Swords, constantly transforming them into four smaller Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formations, and targeted the top of the grinding disc.


    The four mini Sword Arrays put a lot of pressure on Lin Shiming, but not to an outrageous extent that would drain his True Yuan in just a few exchanges. Read thetest on empire


    And since his Sword Array used Superior Grade Magic Swords, the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was even more robust, and, coupled with the Wood Attribute True Essence, it withstood the attack of the grinding disc.


    The weight of the grinding disc was one aspect, while the defense of his Sword Array was another, yet the True Yuan being consumed was massive.


    Meanwhile, Xie An was fighting madly with a Yin-Yang Demon Child, sword in hand.


    Under the surge of the demon banner, the Yin-Yang Demon Child seemed to have infinite strength, with numerous little demons to its left and right, continuously attacking Xie An.


    However, Xie An was not only a Cultivator at the Perfection of the Foundation Establishment Stage, but also had a Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Sword, and he was casting a Third Rank Superior Grade Secret Sword Art. He was on equal footing in the battle.


    At that moment, Chen Yui was not annoyed. Seeing Lin Shiming taking the initiative to confront him, he thought Lin Shiming was overestimating himself.


    Lin Xianzhi, at the very least, was a Cultivator at the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment, and he had evenprehended Sword Intent.


    But this was fine as well, what he coveted was Lin Shiming''s soul-devouring ant.


    With the Magic Artifact of the grinding disc pressing down, making Lin Shiming gasp for breath, Chen Yui sneered and then, from the demon banner, three Foundation Establishment Late-Stage demon heads rushed toward Lin Shiming.


    The three demon heads were spewing poison mist, and just then, a yellow Heavenly Demon Bag appeared in the sky, gusts of wind blowing away all the poison mist.


    The fierce winds even targeted the three demon heads.


    However, at that moment, Chen Yui once again made a hand seal, and the Magic Artifact of the grinding disc doubled in size. The four Sword Arrays immediately began to tremble and rattle, and Lin Shiming''s face turned instantly red.


    He had no choice but to withdraw his hand and release the Red-haired Demon Monkey. The monkey appeared and howled, throwing the Profound Spirit Mountain fiercely at Chen Yui.


    While Chen Yui dodged, Lin Shiming took out another set of Formation Swords. With the addition of five mini Sword Arrays, he managed to block the oppressive grinding disc.


    At that moment, Lin Shiming was undoubtedly under tremendous pressure, with his True Yuan being drained at a terrifying rate!


    The difference between the Perfection and the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment was too great, not to mention that Chen Yui was a standout among Demon Cultivators. Whether it was the grinding disc Magic Artifact or the Heavenly Demon Banner, both were top-tier Third Rank Magic Artifacts.


    Of course, if it weren''t for Xie An, Lin Shiming wouldn''t have been able to hold on for an instant.


    Chen Yui was clearly more concerned about Xie An and had to pay attention to him.


    Unbeknownst to everyone, Xie An had taken out another Supreme Grade Magic Sword. With both swords released, they moved like twin dragons emerging from the sea, unparalleled in their swordsmanship for a time.


    The two Yin-Yang Demon Children, though formidable, were unable to get close to Xie An within a three-zhang radius, as all Spirit Arts were extinguished amid the swirling Sword Qi.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The previously invincible Yin mes of the Yin-Yang Demon Child now also seemed a bit powerless.


    Chen Yui had no choice but to control the Heavenly Demon g, increasing the covering of demon fog on Xie An, while simultaneously, constantly gathering new demon heads.


    Only then did Lin Shiming manage to breathe a sigh of relief, but the consumption of True Yuan made hisplexion look far from good.


    He looked towards Lin Xianzhi, hoping that Lin Xianzhi could create an opportunity.


    However, Lin Xianzhi''s situation was also not good, as he was now facing three Foundation Establishmentte-stage cultivators as well as two mid-stage ones. At this moment, Lin Xianzhi, reversing the Renshui Geng Metal Art once again, disyed a full head of white hair, appearing utterly insane.


    One sword strike after another, at this moment, Lin Xianzhi was the epitome of offense.


    He couldn''t stop the grinding disc, but he knew the horror of the grinding disc. Lin Shiming was only at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment. Even though his strength and talent far exceeded that of ordinary people, how could he withstand it?


    What he needed to do wasunch an all-out attack!


    Then help Lin Shiming and Xie An.


    At this moment, Sword Qi surged in all directions, and the Sword Lotus shone brightly.


    Each bloom of the blue lotus was the unleashing of numerous Qinglian petal swords, each one exceptionally sharp.


    On the side of the demon cultivators, Li Chengxian proved himself to be a genius of the Li Family, with a terrifying Cultivation Level even among those at thete stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Recognizing the Renshui Geng Metal Art, he couldn''t help but let out a coldugh:


    "You Lin Family really don''t know what''s good for you. The Qingxuan Sect gave you life-consumptive cultivation techniques, and you are so desperate. I want to see just how long you canst with that white hair!" Li Chengxian''sment surprised not Xie An, nor the demon cultivators around him.


    But rather, it was the Lin Family members behind Lin Shiming and the others who were fighting against the demon Qi cultivators.


    They did not understand why Lin Xianzhi, who was only one hundred and sixty years old, looked so old.


    Now hearing these words, they all felt indignant, filled with a sense of humiliation.


    The Lin Family had fought and made contributions for Qingxuan Sect, and now it turned out that Lin Xianzhi''s cultivation technique was all wrong.


    At the same time, they thought of a shocking possibility and all turned to look at Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming was also a disciple of the Qingxuan Sect, practicing the Sect''s given cultivation techniques.


    "Haha, don''t bother. Lin Shiming''s cultivation technique also has ws!" Li Chengxian spoke up again with a coldugh.


    At this moment, he fully activated his cultivation technique, along with a red sword in his hand. Facing Lin Xianzhi, although he could not defeat him, he was not much worse off.


    With four other people assisting him on the side, they were confident that they could soon kill the life-exhausted Lin Xianzhi.


    "And what good are you demon cultivators?" Xie An was also enraged at this moment.


    He raised his hand, and once again, produced a sword. This time, it was three Supreme Grade magic swords. Even though his Divine Soul was pushed to the limit, the might of the swords at this moment was still extremely terrifying.


    Chen Yui began to look serious as well. Suddenly, he took out another ck g.


    This ck g was even more sinister and terrifying. On its surface was a giant demon head in the shape of a fierce tiger.


    Beyond that, there was nothing else.


    As the ck g unfurled in the wind, it transformed into a huge g fifty zhang tall in the next moment. The demon fog surged like a sea, and a ckher tiger demon head suddenly burst forth, making everyone''s spirits tremble.


    "Purple Mansion Nether Tiger!" Xie An''s face changed dramatically as well.

 Chapter 190 Anxiety

    Xie An''s words sank the hearts of everyone present once again.


    The already dire situation had be even more hopeless.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    They were all familiar with the name of the Ming Tiger, a Demonic Beast rumored to carry the True Spirit bloodline, scarcely inferior to the descendants of the Dragon Beasts, possessing immense strength, against which cultivators of the same rank stood no chance.


    Not to mention the Ming Tiger that had be a demon after death, whose strength was scarcely diminished, a key reason for the prosperity of the Heavenly Demon Sect''s demonic banners.


    "No, his Ming Tiger demon soul isn''tplete, it''s just a remnant soul!" Xie An shouted again.


    "What does it matter if it''s just a remnant soul, you still can''t withstand it!" Chen Yui sneered coldly, signaling with the demonic banner that he was ready to annihte everything in his path.


    Everyone knew him as Old Demon Chen, but little did they know where his notorious reputation stemmed from.


    The Rolling Divine te and the Yin Yang Demonic Child were one thing, but in fact, his ultimate technique was this Ming Tiger demon soul.


    A whole Third Rank Supreme Grade demonic banner, capable of bearing only one demon soul, spoke volumes of the Ming Tiger''s dominance and ferocity.


    While deliberating, the Ming Tiger raised its head, its massive fangs began to emit a ghostly glow, lunging towards Xie An.


    At this moment, the three Supreme Grade magic swords performing the Three Dragons Convergence secret technique seemed like toys being yed with by the Ming Tiger,pletely suppressed.


    Xie An''s expression changed drastically as the Yin Yang Demonic Child spewed another breath of Yin me. In response, he scrambled to pull out an abundance of Spirit Talismans, casting defenses non-stop.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming''s eyes were bursting with ferocity, continuously casting Spirit Arts with his hands.


    The next moment, countless Purple Gold Vines shot out towards Lin Xianzhi''s opponents.


    This assault of Purple Gold Vines had been long charged up by Lin Shiming; as he was being continuously suppressed by the Rolling Divine te, he had been preparing.


    Now, nearly all of it was unleashed, turning into an ocean of Purple Gold Vines, entwining towards several people.


    Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators had no ability to resist, and among the Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators, only Li Chengxian managed to escape.


    A golden light emerged, and unexpectedly, two enormous golden limbs descended, severing two of the entwined Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators.


    One of them was a cultivator from the Heavenly Demon Sect, his cultivation entirely bound to the demon banner, and was killed outright, while the other was enveloped by Lin Xianzhi''s Green Lotus Sword Light, dying without a whole corpse.


    The remaining two Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators were no match and were obliterated by the sword light on the spot.


    Only Li Chengxian had a narrow escape. In that moment, looking at Lin Shiming, he was filled with amazement and confusion.


    Lin Shiming cultivated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra, information that could naturally be checked in the Qingxuan Sect, and the Li Family had a substantial standing in the Qingxuan Sect before this.


    Even though the side effects of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra were minimal, not only were there no side effects visible, but it seemed that his cultivation of the Purple Wood Heart Sutra was even better than that of the Qingxuan Sect''s direct disciples, with a True Yuan amount that was unbelievable.


    With Foundation Establishment Middle Stage strength, he definitely possessed the True Yuan of Foundation Establishment Late Stage, and his Divine Sense was indeed on par with Foundation Establishment Late Stage cultivators; controlling so many Superior Grade Spirit Swords and a mass of Purple Gold Vines.


    At this moment, Li Chengxian could not guarantee that he could kill Lin Shiming alone.


    Even more so, he was uncertain if he could survive an encounter with Lin Shiming!


    In this moment, Li Chengxian felt that Lin Shiming was a million times more terrifying than Li Xianzhi.


    And that Golden Winged Mantis, it dazzled him, this Third Rank Early Stage Strange Beast appearing even more extraordinary than a Third Rank Middle Stage Spirit Beast!


    As Lin Shiming intervened, his Sword Array could no longer hold up against the Rolling Divine te, which ground it to nothingness, transforming into Purple Swords that flew into Lin Shiming''s body.


    The next moment, a Red-haired Demon Monkey suddenly appeared in front of Lin Shiming, raising its hands high to support the Rolling Divine te.


    But how could a mere Third Rank Supreme Grade Rolling Divine te be withstood by a single Red-haired Demon Monkey? In an instant, the monkey''s arms were crushed to pieces.


    As its tail, infused with Strange Fire, fiercely struck the Rolling Divine te, the te shook violently, and the Strange Fire immediately exploded into mes.


    Taking advantage of this moment, Lin Shiming swiftly dodged, avoiding the suppression of the Rolling Divine te.


    At the same time, he captured the Red-haired Demon Monkey into his Spirit Beast Bag.


    This time, the Red-haired Demon Monkey was severely injured, with both armspletely shattered. It would need the precious Third Rank Limb-Regrowing Pill since, unlike Spirit Insects, Spirit Beasts'' limbs cannot grow back on their own.


    He had no choice but to sacrifice the demon monkey, as he had to break the situation.


    As the Rolling Divine te missed its mark, it came smashing down towards Lin Shiming again; however, the burning Strange Fire was not yet extinguished by Chen Yui, which noticeably reduced its speed and control.


    After consuming arge amount of Spiritual Medicine, Lin Shiming took out four sets of the small-scale Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation to start his defense!


    In another ce, after evading Lin Xianzhi, Li Chengxian no longer approached and simply restrained him from afar.


    Lin Xianzhi felt extremely helpless for a while and turned to assist Xie An.


    Theybated the Yin Yang Demon Child.


    Yet, as soon as Li Chengxian noticed this, he would return to persistently harass Lin Xianzhi.


    However, the most critical issue was still the Hell Tiger Demon Lord; Xie An was still unable to hold it off. Three Supreme Grade Magic Swords could only conjure about three zhang of space around him, desperately defending.


    With each assault of the Hell Tiger, Xie An spewed blood, and the Magic Swords'' Spirit Light greatly diminished.


    At that moment, Chen Yui''splexion darkened as well; despite his suppression, Lin Shiming still managed to strike and kill others.


    But just as he was about to wield the Rolling Divine te to crush Lin Shiming, a golden scythe leg sliced through the void at an extreme speed, leaving only a trail of dazzling golden light.


    It was the Golden Winged Mantis controlled by Lin Shiming attacking again. However, a Spirit Shield appeared around Chen Yui, blocking the lethal strike of the Golden Winged Mantis, after which Chen Yui disappeared under the demon banner.


    Magic mist enveloped the area, and Lin Shiming could not see a trace of Chen Yui.


    The Golden Winged Mantis also continuously transformed into golden light, flying around the magic mist, then vanished into the void beneath the Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, the old demon Chen''s Divine Sense iscking!" Lin Shiming also bellowed.


    The Hell Tiger was indeed powerful, but as a demon within the Heavenly Demon Banner, its existence depended on Chen Yui.


    This kind of Magic Artifact almost transcended its category, and the consumption of Divine Sense was naturally enormous.


    Otherwise, with the character of old demon Chen, he would have taken out the demon banner early on to refine the Golden Winged Mantis into a demon head.


    The cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect mayck other Magic Artifacts, but almost each one possesses several Heavenly Demon Banners, differing only in material.


    Lin Xianzhi also noticed that the Yin Yang Demon Child didn''t disy the same fierce aggression as it had in the fight against Xie An; instead, it attacked mechanically.


    Discover exclusive content at empire


    Now that Chen Yui moved the demon banner away, the Yin Yang Demon Child appeared even less formidable!


    What vexed him though was that with the Heavenly Demon Banner shrouding Chen Yui, they simply couldn''t find his true body. If Xie An were to be in, then it would be impossible for them to survive.


    And indeed, that was the case for Xie An at the moment; most of the treasures in his Storage Bag were depleted, and his whole body radiated intense Spirit Light, evidently having used some kind of secret technique that drained his potential.


    Even so, he was still in dire straits, with the possibility of being fatally struck by the Hell Tiger''s w and breaching his sword defense at any moment, leading to his demise.

 Chapter 184 - 185 Decision

    ```


    The speed of the Third Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Boat instantly increased a notch as Lin Shiming controlled it, heading towards White Leaf Continent, which was adjacent to Heavenly River State.


    White Leaf Continent was also thergest state of the Spirit Beast Sect, where the main forces of the sect were located.


    The cultivators of Zhao Kingdom were almost all retreating towards White Leaf Continent as well.


    The raging wind struck Lin Shiming¡¯s face, making him even calmer inside. With the Third Rank Wind Escape Talisman, indeed even an average Purple Mansion cultivator without a flying magical treasure might not be able to catch up to him.


    But in the next moment, Lin Shiming thought of his father, Lin Houyuan, and others.


    At the time the city was breached, it was themunication from the Lin Family n that he sensed that made him leave his retreat. Because it was a dedicated retreat, unless the formation of the retreat was destroyed, he would not have noticed the changes outside.


    At that time, he had justpleted a breakthrough to the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment and had consolidated his cultivation level with the Tribtion-Resolving Elixir given by Lin Xianzhi. He also incidentallypleted the refining of the Formation Swords, forming the Great Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    Otherwise, he might not have been able to leave with Lin Xianzhi under the circumstances at that time.


    But because he exited the retreat too hastily, he had only fully refined the Purple Gold Gourd, and that Supreme Grade flying sword had not been refined yet. At the same time, his Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique was only at thete stage of Qi Cultivation.


    On the way, Lin Shiming had the fewest injuries.


    As he recovered his True Yuan, his Purple Wood Heart Sutra also had a natural advantage.


    At this moment, he was able to multitask, keeping his Divine Sense on the pursuers.


    At the same time, his Divine Sense continuously swept underneath the ground and every thousand miles, he waved his hand toward the ground and retrieved an Iron Thornwood seed.


    The appearance of Iron Thornwood seeds in the wild would not draw the attention of other cultivators, making it an excellent marker.


    This was something he had given to his father before leaving.


    But the more he watched, the more rmed he became, as the distance between the markers was growing, and they were somewhat scattered.


    Clearly, the Lin Family n members were fleeing!


    ...


    In an endless forest, a Spirit Boat was flying desperately, and low-rank wind Spirit Talismans were affixed to the Spirit Boat.


    Even though Second Rank Spirit Talismans were not very effective on a Third Rank Spirit Boat, at this moment, none of the Lin Family n members hesitated, frantically executing Spirit Arts, sticking Spirit Talismans to the Spirit Boat, despite the minuscule effect.


    Lin Houyuan nced at the pursuers behind him once again with Divine Sense, and his brow furrowed deeper, hisplexion bing extremely grim.


    The demonic cultivators of the Spirit Sect were less than a hundred miles behind them. At such a distance, even if they exhausted all their Spirit Talismans and used up all their True Yuan, they still wouldn¡¯t be able to control the Spirit Boat to escape.


    "Everyone, the demon cultivators are not far behind," Lin Houyuan¡¯s statement also made the dozen or so people on the Spirit Boat look despondently for a moment.


    To think that when they set out, they had thirty-seven Qi Cultivation cultivators at theter stages, and now, only a dozen remained.


    Just as they were about to escape from Heavenly River State, they were unexpectedly targeted by demon cultivators.


    The older generation of cultivators like Lin Yuqing, Lin Houyong, Lin Houshou, and Lin Houyu hesitated for three moments before taking steps forward, suddenly in the same position as Lin Houyuan.


    Lin Shiyi, as well as Lin Houwei, instantly realized and tookrge steps forward, only to be pushed back by Lin Houyuan raising his hand, forming True Yuan.


    Besides them, Lin Shiyun, Lei Xuan, and several of the younger generation of those with the surname Hou also took determined steps!


    "What are you doing? You think you can look down on us old folks now? The Lin Family has always had a tradition of preserving the seedlings and not the old seeds," Lin Yuqing cursed with a bit of anger.


    ```


    As a Law Enforcement Hall Elder and the Great Elder of the Lin Family, Lin Yuqing had scolded nearly every cultivator present.


    At this moment, hearing his admonishment, some eyes suddenly reddened.


    "I am relieved to see that you could alle out, you are all good sons of the Lin Family, but this time, you have an even more important mission, and that is to ensure our legacy!" Lin Houyuan also said loudly. There was a time when he too, was scolded by his elders like this, perhaps a little bewildered back then.


    But at this moment, his heart felt it even more deeply.


    Not only did the Lin Family have hundreds of members practicing immortal cultivation, but there were also over a hundred thousand mortals from the Lin Family, whose fearless sacrifices were but like moths to me. In the world of cultivation, as long as the lineage persisted, everything was possible.


    If Qi Cultivation couldn¡¯t overpower, try Foundation Establishment. If Foundation Establishment was not enough, escte to Purple Mansion, and if even Purple Mansion failed, then it muste to Golden Core!


    Lin Houwei began to understand, gripping his hip sk so tightly it seemed he might crush the spout.


    Being born into a family of cultivators, they understood all too well the import of lineage.


    Yet, Lin Shiyi was still incredibly stubborn at this moment, continuing to walk towards Lin Yuqing while muttering under his breath¡ªhe was a Body Cultivation practitioner.


    "Stop causing trouble, Shiyi. You will eventually surpass this old man and be the true number one Body Refining Cultivator of the Lin Family!" Lin Yuqing spoke again. He actually wanted to scold him, but remembering these were likely hisst few words, his tone softened by half, turning into persuasion.


    "Family Head, let me go. They¡¯reing for me, and I hope the remaining brothers and sisters can take care of Shiqi," Lei Xuan stepped forward.


    As a Thunder Spirit Root cultivator, it was the release of his thunder attribute spell during thest moments of the city¡¯s defense that caused the Lin Family to catch such unwanted attention.


    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    For the Heavenly Demon Sect, other cultivators could escape, but a Thunder Cultivator had to be killed on sight.


    This city battle saw most cultivators with the thunder attribute ambushed by the Demon Cultivators.


    Lei Xuan was only okay because he hid well, and of course, nobody thought that a Thunder Spirit Root Cultivator would emerge from the Lin Family.


    This time Lin Houyuan nodded in agreement; after all, Lei Xuan had been captured and married into the family. While Lin Shiming was at ease about him, they were admittedly a little worried, and the chase this time indeed had something to do with Lei Xuan.


    "It¡¯s decided then. I, Uncle, Big Brother Hou Yong, Second Brother Hou Shou, Sixth Brother Hou Yu, and Lei Xuan, are responsible for staying behind to face the enemy. Everyone else should try to escape with three Earth Escape Talismans each!" Lin Houyuan ordered.


    The Lin Family Elders also entrusted theirst words to Lin Houwei, handing over any Jade Slips and treasures that could benefit their descendants to him.


    Then Lin Houyuan and the others slowed their speed, waiting for the Demon Cultivators to arrive, while Lin Houwei and the rest disembarked from the Spirit Boat and utilized Wind Escape Talismans to flee before using Earth Escape Talismans to make their escape.


    These Escape Talismans had been obtained by Lin Shiming after he killed cultivators from the Huang Family in the Qingyun Mountain Range.


    "If only the seventh was here!" Lin Shiyi also sounded somewhat somber, but he didn¡¯t slow down and continued to flee forward.


    Soon, a ck Spirit Boat with arge g appeared in the sky not far away.


    The Spirit Boat was not yet close when countless Flying Knife Artifacts began to be hurled towards Lin Houyuan¡¯s Spirit Boat.


    Following the flying knives came Flying Needles!


    The cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect rarely used swords; most of theirbat involved magical gs, which were handy and made it convenient to absorb the souls of in enemies into the gs, increasing the power of the Heavenly Demon gs.


    But this didn¡¯t mean that the Heavenly Demon Sect cultivatorscked proficiency with other Magic Artifacts. On the contrary, their Flying Needle Artifacts, Flying Knife Artifacts, and their polluted Magical Gourds were numerous.


    The Flying Knives were immensely powerful. Lin Houyuan had to wield three Intermediate Grade Third Rank Formation Swords just to fend off the Flying Knives. But as soon as the knives were dealt with, the Flying Needle Artifacts arrived, leaving Lin Houyuan in a frantic defense.


    And the Magical gs of the Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators also swiftly approached.


    Two middle-stage Foundation Establishment Heavenly Demon Sect cultivators, one early-stage Foundation Establishment, plus over a dozen Qi Cultivation disciples!

 Chapter 191 Arriving at Jiuye City

    Two towering Magic Banners stood like demonic gates, one enshrouding Chen Yui and the other suppressing Xie An.


    The demonic fog was so dense that it reduced visibility to its lowest, and as soon as Divine Sense entered the fog, it would be disturbed by resentful spirits lurking within.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi both had extremely unsightly expressions on their faces.


    At this moment, Li Chengxian was not moving forward to harass them, but quietly waiting for the Underworld Tiger to y Xie An and then to coordinate with the Yin Yang Demon Child in killing Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    He was holding his treasure sword and staring intently at Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi from a distance, guessing that they would attempt to escape the moment Xie An died.


    And he, must intercept Lin Shiming!


    Lin Shiming was doomed to die!


    However, with a sh of golden light!


    The Golden Winged Mantis finally charged into the demonic fog, the effects of the Qinglian Taoist Robe instantly failed, revealing its golden insect body.


    Countless resentful spirits and demonic heads swooped towards the Golden Winged Mantis, seeking to bite it to death and assimte it as another demonic head.


    "Haha, excellent, yet another superior demonic head!" Chen Yui shouted with joy.


    His gaze towards Lin Shiming was growing increasingly greedy!


    The Sinister Ants, the Red-haired Demon Monkey, the golden Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis!


    All of these made him feel that this trip was extremely worthwhile.


    Under the demonic fog, Chen Yui also greedily nced at Li Chengxian for a moment but swiftly refocused on Xie An whileunching a fierce attack on the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Seeing that the pressure on the Rolling Divine te on him was finally easing, Lin Shiming flipped his hand and took out a purple-gold gourd.


    The gourd swelled against the wind in midair, and in the blink of an eye, it transformed into a giant gourd several dozens of feet in size.


    The might of the superior-grade Magic Artifact unfolded instantly, sending countless fireballs shooting towards Chen Yui''s demonic fog.


    "A superior-grade Magic Artifact? Are you running out of tricks?" Chen Yui''s disdainful voice sounded, the superior-grade Magic Artifact gourd was not even worth his consideration.


    As expected, with a mere nce from Old Demon Chen, the fireballs extinguished on cue, and the dense demonic fog continued to surge mightily.


    However, the next moment, what caused his pupils to constrict and his surprise to soar was that Lin Shiming was now sitting atop the gourd, right behind the mes.


    His speed was so astonishing that it left onlookers speechless!


    As for the Rolling Divine te, it was now falling, but its retrieval speed was far slower than Lin Shiming''s escape.


    And at this moment, the might disyed by the gourd was that of a supreme-grade Magic Artifact!


    Chen Yui hurriedlymanded three Foundation Establishment demonic heads to charge towards Lin Shiming.


    However, at this moment, Lin Shiming lowered his head, and thirty-six Purple Wood Formation Swords instantly flew out, shattering the three Foundation Establishment demonic heads into pieces on the spot.


    But the very next moment, the mouth of the gourd emitted starsand, a golden gravel flickering with starlight, twinkling as if it was the endless Milky Way.


    Amidst the fire and the wind, it surged towards the demonic fog without cease.


    "Wind Fire Starsand!" Old Demon Chen finally changed color.


    The Wind Fire Starsand enveloped the demonic fog in the blink of an eye, almostpletely covering it, and Chen, Old Demon, had not cultivated any Body Refinement techniques!


    Being engulfed by this Wind Fire Starsand meant certain death.


    And at this time, Xie An, like someone who had just taken a strong medicine,unched a furious counterattack against the Ming Tiger. Although somewhat futile, it upied a great deal of Chen Yui''s attention. Read new chapters at empire


    As for Lin Xianzhi, there was no need to say more; heunched almost suicidal assaults on the Yin-Yang Demon Child!


    Chen Yui''s face grew increasingly unsightly as he took out another Spirit Talisman and pped it down with a pained expression.


    It transformed into a gigantic Spirit Formation, sheltering him within.


    The gusting mes and star-sands hit the Spirit Formation with loud bangs, creating a thunderous noise.


    However, the Formation was extremely sturdy and showed no signs of breaking.


    But just as Chen Yui heaved a sigh of relief, in the blink of an eye, a basin-sized hole was torn open in the Spirit Formation, revealing ferocious Spirit Ants with fangs bared.


    The whirlwind of fiery star-sands infiltrated the formation, presenting Chen Yui with a situation simr to the one Lin Shiming initially faced, except that he wasn''t equipped with Spirit Ants to weaken and devour the star-sands.


    He was quickly submerged in the star-sands.


    Without the input of True Yuan, the two demonic banners abruptly stopped, the demonic fog receded, and all the demon heads vanished without a trace.


    Lin Shiming felt the dryness of True Yuan in his body and the dizziness he was forcefully suppressing. He took out a Superior Grade Spirit Stone and began to restore True Yuan.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Xie An was in the worst state; half of his body had been stripped away by the Ming Tiger. After swallowing an elixir, he immediately began meditating on the spot.


    He even took out some of the Dragon Lizard meat and Essence Blood given by Lin Shiming, consuming a portion on the spot like a ravenous beast and relishing it greatly.


    On the other hand, Lin Xianzhi, though visibly struggling, kept his gaze firmly fixed on Li Chengxian.


    Meanwhile, the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey turned towards the Lin Family''s Qi Cultivators, ughtering the Qi Demon Cultivators and the remaining Middle Stage Foundation Establishment Demon Cultivators brought by Chen Yui.


    Seeing this, Li Chengxian had no intention of staying for a sneak attack. He took out his War Treasure Ship and plotted his escape into the distance.


    Although Lin Shiming longed for that War Treasure Ship, at this moment, he could only watch helplessly as Li Chengxian fled.


    Never mind catching up, given their current state, they weren''t capable of inflicting a fatal blow on Li Chengxian.


    "Shiming, we must leave. This time, I''ll navigate the Spirit Boat!" Lin Xianzhi spoke.


    Neither Xie An nor Lin Shiming said much, both boarding the Supreme Grade Spirit Boat.


    The group hurried again towards Jiuye City in the White Leaf Continent.


    This time, Lin Xianzhi still chose to take a detour. If there had been an ambush at Mount Tai previously, there was a very likely chance of a second one, and it was also very likely that Li Chengxian might return with reinforcements on the War Treasure Ship.


    Fortunately, five dayster, the Lin Family group traversed most of Heavenly River State''s territories and finally arrived at the White Leaf Continent.


    What entered their sights was a vast and ancient city, situated at the mountain pass like a formidable barrier, none other than Jiuye City.


    The walls of Jiuye City were extremely tall, but what was even more astonishing was the center of the city, where a colossal white spruce Spirit Tree soared into the sky, taller than the mountains and reaching the clouds.


    This white spruce Spirit Tree had also given birth to a Wood Demon. It was said that the Wood Demon''s realm was that of a Fourth-Rank Purple Mansion Peak existence, far more powerful than his Tea Tree Wood Demon by an innumerable magnitude.


    There were nine massive primordial spirit leaves on the white spruce Spirit Tree. One leaf emerged every hundred years, with each leaf sorge that, from a distance, it hardly seemed smaller than a pce hall. It is said that these white spruce spirit leaves are capable of refining Fifth-Rank Magical Treasures.


    The white spruce Spirit Tree did not conceal its body and naturally feared no one, for the master of the Spirit Tree was one of the Spirit Beast Sect''s three Golden Cores, the White Spruce True Person.


    There were even rumors that the White Spruce True Person had achieved the Golden Core Path because the white spruce had once borne a millennial white spruce fruit.


    While Lin Shiming was observing, Xie An, looking noticeably weak but with some color returning to his cheeks, stepped out. His gaze toward Jiuye City also carried a touch of a smile, visibly much relieved.


    "Shiming, you''re not yet sixty, are you?" Xie An suddenly asked.

 Chapter 192 Nine Leaves Dao Enlightenment

    Jiuye City was extremely bustling;pared to Qingxuan Sect disciples, the disciples of Spirit Beast Sect consumed far more spiritual objects.


    Although Jiuye City was only the secondrgest city of the Spirit Beast Sect, the need for spiritual objects made itsmerce thrive, even surpassing Qingxuan Sect''s Qingxuan City in some aspects by a tenth more.


    As Lin Shiming walked on the streets, it wasmon to see cultivators riding various spirit beasts, whereas those riding flying swords were mostly cultivators from Qingxuan Sect and Spirit Talisman Sect, who hade because of the war.


    After a round of questioning at the city gate, the Lin Family members eventually entered Jiuye City and checked into an inn.


    And as luck would have it, they were staying in a branch of Laiyue Tower.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was in a room, contemting the words Xie An had just said. Your journey continues on empire


    At first, when Xie An brought up the issue of age, Lin Shiming was somewhat puzzled, but he had not expected that the Nine Leaves of Jiuye City held significant secrets.


    The nine leaves of the White Fir Spirit Tree actually formed a natural Dao Enlightenment tform.


    Every ten years, there was an opportunity for Dao Enlightenment. Since the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom were allied, they would advance and retreat together, so the nine Dao Enlightenment spots in Jiuye City were divided as follows: three for the Spirit Beast Sect, two each for the remaining two sects, and thest two spots were determined throughpetition.


    The only requirement for Dao Enlightenment was to be a Foundation Establishment cultivator under the age of sixty.


    Lin Shiming naturally met both requirements, and he could understand that those over sixty had already set their talent, and Qi Refinement cultivators, who couldn''t even practice secret techniques, naturally couldn''t speak of Dao Enlightenment.


    However, he was hesitant about participating. It was impossible for Qingxuan Sect''s two fixed spots to fall to him, so if he were topete, he could only vie for one of those two additional spots.


    And considering the challenge of securing one of the two spots from among the young cultivators of the Three Sects, one could easily imagine the difficulty. Moreover, even if he managed to seize a spot, all his trump cards would be known to everyone, which was not what Lin Shiming wanted.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, thought for a while without any clear idea, and then stopped pondering it.


    There were rumors of war, and it was uncertain whether the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment would be cancelled.


    The Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect were making such a grand move, it was very possible they would not be satisfied with just Heavenly River Continent, along with the two states of Spirit Talisman Sect.


    After settling down for a moment, Lin Shiming visited Lin Shiyi. Lin Shiyi''s body had been recuperating for five days and was finally thinking of recovering. Moreover, due to a blessing in disguise, his cultivation level had grown a step closer. He just needed to polish his spiritual power to prepare for breaking through to Foundation Establishment.


    And because he had consumed the flesh and blood of a Dragon Lizard, his vitality had be very strong.


    Such a body refining cultivator would have a greatly increased chance of sess when making a breakthrough.


    After expressing his gratitude a few times, Lin Shiyi bade Lin Shiming farewell. Lin Shiming then visited Lin Xianzhi but found that thetter was still in seclusion. So, Lin Shiming decided to return to his room.


    He took out a Spirit Beast Bag.


    Inside the Spirit Beast Bag was one of the treasures divided from the killing of the old demon, Chen Yui.


    Among the treasures, Xie An had taken the Demonic Banner with the soul of the Nether Tiger. Although he couldn''t use it, the precious part was not the banner itself, but the soul of the Nether Tiger. When Xie An was ready to break through to the Purple Mansion and refine a magical treasure, he could cultivate the soul of the Nether Tiger into a spirit within the treasure.


    At that time, the power of the magical treasure would surge by a third. Even if he did not reach the Purple Mansion, Xie An could sell the soul of the Nether Tiger and still gain an astonishing wealth.


    Because he had taken the Ming Tiger''s soul essence, the remaining Rolling Divine te and the soul essence of the Yin-Yang Demon Child''s Heavenly Demon Banner were given to Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    Under Lin Xianzhi''s insistent demands, Lin Shiming ended up with the Rolling Divine te.


    At this moment, the Rolling Divine te still appeared to be the size of an ordinary stone mill, entirely forged from ck mysterious iron of unknown origin. When touched, it felt extremely solid, its surface engraved with dense Spirit Patterns.


    Lin Shiming had learned some artifact refining, although he could only craft Inferior Grade Second Rank Magic Artifacts, which were almost useless. However, from the perspective of a refiner, he understood the terrifying nature of this Rolling Divine te.


    Indeed, if the Rolling Divine te''s potential wasn''t overshadowed by that of the Ming Tiger''s soul essence, it would truly be the prime discovery.


    After seizing Chen Yui''s three major magical treasures, Lin Shiming found many other Magic Artifacts that Chen Yui had taken from in cultivators of the Zhao Kingdom.


    All three of them divided the loot equally; however, Xie An, having devoured some Dragon Lizard flesh again, voluntarily proposed to take only thirty percent.


    Of course, Lin Shiming no longer had any interest in ordinary Superior Grade Magic Artifacts at this moment.


    Instead, he obtained a good amount of Spirit Stones and Qingming Iron once again; Old Devil Chen had robbed a Qingming Iron mine in the Heavenly River State and a Spirit Stone mine on Yunjing Mountain.


    Within the Storage Bag, there were a total of one hundred Superior Grade Spirit Stones; the three of them each took thirty, and the remaining ten were exchanged by Xie An for other smaller Spirit Stones.


    But the Spirit Stones Lin Shiming acquired for himself alone amounted to one million, and at this moment, he carried a total of three million Spirit Stones at his waist. Aside from the consumed ones, he still had a full forty-two Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    With his current wealth, he had enough to purchase a War Treasure Ship!


    After tallying the Spirit Stones, Lin Shiming took out a Jade Slip, which contained a record of a Wood-element Profound Rank Inferior Grade Cultivation Technique called the "Three Greens Return to Origin Technique."


    With this, the Lin Family now possessed five Inferior Grade Profound Rank Cultivation Techniques, covering Fire, Lightning, Wood, and Water elements, in addition to a Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique of the Earth element.


    Xie An naturally didn''t need this Cultivation Technique recorded in the Jade Slip, so Lin Shiming took it for himself. Clearly, it was a foundational family''s treasured technique, stolen by Old Devil Chen after killing them.


    As for the other Jade Slips, they contained instructions on how to refine the Heavenly Demon Banner and the Demons'' Cultivation Techniques.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, these were nearly useless to the Lin Family¡ªafter all, it was improbable for them to cultivate Demonic Techniques, and the refined Heavenly Demon Banner, like the Yin-Yang Demon Child''s Heavenly Demon Banner they''d seized, eventually had to be auctioned off.


    Beyond the Jade Slips, Lin Shiming took out two sheepskin maps. There were three sheepskin maps in Old Devil Chen''s Storage Bag; Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming, and Xie An each received one. The extra one was acquired by Lin Shiming after he killed a Corpse Refining Sect Cultivator.


    These sheepskin maps were clearly treasure maps, but the routes they depicted puzzled Lin Shiming; even afterparing them to the entire maps of Zhao Kingdom, Chu Country, and Yan Country, he couldn''t find any ce simr to what was on the maps.


    Even Xie An had no idea.


    Lin Shiming, unable to figure it out and with no system prompts appearing, understood that it was probably impossible to find these ces in the short term, so he carefully put the maps away.


    Then, after releasing the Spirit Istion Formation, Lin Shiming entered the Cave Heaven World.


    At this moment, inside the Cave Heaven World, the Red-haired Demon Monkey was curled up in a corner, both forearms gone. It was curled into a ball, unusually silent, also with an exceptionally low mood.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but sigh when he saw this; he had already fed the Red-haired Demon Monkey some of the Dragon Lizard meat and given it three stalks of Dragon Blood Grass to consume. His Spiritual Power brought a flush of redness to its entire body, and the Strange Fire on its tail grewrger, yet its arms showed no signs of regrowth.


    It seemed that when the Demon Monkey noticed Lin Shiming''s presence, it looked up at him, then quietly lowered its head again, its eyes filled with mncholy.

 Chapter 193 Trade Fair

    For the Red-haired Demon Monkey, its arms, although not as formidable as its tail that wielded Strange Fire, were also a significant aspect of itsbat strength.


    With such a strong desire to win, Lin Shiming could understand its current frustration.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll find you a Third Rank Limb-Regrowing Pill!" Lin Shiming gently rubbed the red head of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, then turned away without caring whether it understood him or not.


    Lin Shiming didn''t linger long and left the Cave Heaven World, heading towards the marketce of Jiuye City.


    The marketce in Jiuye City was exceptionally orderly, and the buildings and streets were muchrger than those in ordinary cities.


    At the moment, due to Jiuye City facing the threat of the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect, there were more Cultivators purchasing Magic Artifacts and Spirit Talismans on the streets, and even the distant vending areas were overflowing with people.


    Most of them were Qi Cultivators, but there were also quite a few Foundation Establishment Cultivators; to Lin Shiming''s surprise, there were quite a few Purple Mansion Cultivators shopping in the stores as well.


    Clearly, the fall of Heavenly River State had put tremendous pressure on those Purple Mansion Cultivators, and many of them had retreated from Heavenly River City.


    Lin Shiming, who needed to purchase a Third Rank Limb-Regrowing Pill, didn''t go to the vending area but headed straight for the shops instead.


    Finally, he stopped in front of a four-story shop called Baozhen Pavilion.


    A four-story shop signified the capability to host Golden Core True Persons, which was also a symbol of strength and background.


    Of course, Lin Shiming had also seen situations where shops intentionally built a fourth floor to cater to True Persons, but in reality, they might not have the financial strength to host even Purple Mansion Hermits.


    However, now in Jiuye City, with a steady stream of visitorsing and going, Lin Shiming naturally didn''t have to worry about this situation.


    Theyout and decoration of Baozhen Pavilion were somewhat simr to the Duobao Tower of the Qingxuan Sect, with the ground floor divided into four counters for Elixirs, Artifacts, Spiritual Materials, and Talismans, each staffed by Cultivators with attractive appearances and sweet voices.


    Lin Shiming didn''t stop, heading straight to the second floor.


    The second floor was even more luxurious and grand, with more nanmu furnishings and some pottedndscapes of Copper Coin nts as decorations.


    "Senior, this is the Jade Slip introducing the treasures on the second floor. If you wish to make a purchase, you can visit the transaction room to view the treasures," a sweet-voiced female Cultivator approached as soon as Lin Shiming ascended the stairs, handing him a Jade Slip.


    After seeing several Foundation Establishment Cultivators checking the Jade Slips, Lin Shiming also took the Jade Slip.


    The contents recorded in the Jade Slip were extensive, including ten different kinds of Spirit Beast cubs. Among them, there was even a peak Third Rank Split Wind Eagle Beast egg, but the price tag was incredibly scary, approaching a million Spirit Stones.


    Lin Shiming, who was there for the Limb-Regrowing Pill, didn''t continue to check the Spirit Beasts, instead, he searched for Elixirs and swiftly found the Third Rank Limb-Regrowing Pill. The price was two hundred thousand Spirit Stones per bottle, which was quite reasonable and had not been inted due to the invasion of the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    After finding the Limb-Regrowing Pill, he leisurely continued to check other treasures.


    Besides the Limb-Regrowing Pill, Lin Shiming took a liking to a Superior Grade Third Rank Crimson me Rod Magic Artifact, which he also intended to buy for the Red-haired Demon Monkey. Since the Red-haired Demon Monkey currently possessed Strange Fire, which could incinerate anything, it could only throw a Profound Spirit Mountain Magic Artifact from afar.


    However, the price of this Superior Grade Third Rank Crimson me Rod was not too outrageous¡ªfour hundred thousand Spirit Stones of the Inferior Grade.


    Of course, what surprised him the most was that the shop even had seeds of Third Rank Spirit Vines. Though these seeds were only of the Inferior Grade Green Snake Vine, which were far fromparable to his Purple Gold Vine in terms of resilience!


    However, at the moment, he didn''t have many seeds of the Purple Gold Vine left, so he could consider buying some as a temporary substitute.


    About the time it takes an incense stick to burn, Lin Shiming finally made his selection.


    Then, under the guidance of the female Cultivator, he found an empty room and walked in.


    The consultant in the room was a slightly shrewd middle-aged cultivator, at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, just like Lin Shiming.


    Upon entering, Lin Shiming sat down with the middle-aged cultivator''s hospitality.


    "Fellow Daoist, do you have any treasures in mind?"


    "Third Rank Limb-Regrowing Pills, a Third Rank Superior Grade Crimson me Rod, plus two bottles of Intermediate Grade Third Rank Healing Pills¡ªCold Jade Pills, and a hundred seeds of the Green Snake Vine..." Lin Shiming listed the treasures he intended to purchase one by one.


    Thetter quickly took out from his Storage Bag the Third Rank Intermediate Grade Healing Pills and the Limb-Regrowing Pills. However, the Crimson me Rod and Green Snake Vine seeds were brought out by a Qi Cultivation servant from inside the room.


    After inspecting the Crimson me Rod and Limb-Regrowing Pills, Lin Shiming also handed a Storage Bag to the middle-aged cultivator.


    Inside were precisely eight hundred thousand Spirit Stones.


    "Would fellow Daoist happen to know where to purchase a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vine?" Lin Shiming asked after pocketing the treasures. Your journey continues on empire


    For his Purple Wood Heart Sutra, Spirit Vines were the utmost increase in fighting power. The Purple Gold Vine seemed somewhat insufficient when he faced cultivators at the Foundation Establishment Late Stage or those who had reached the Perfection of Foundation Establishment.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Seeing that the shop had Third Rank Inferior Grade Green Snake Vine seeds, he grew curious.


    "Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vine?" The middle-aged cultivator was visibly surprised by Lin Shiming''s request. He knew Lin Shiming was only a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator, but recalling Lin Shiming''s financial resources, his expression quickly returned to normal.


    "Such rare Spirit Vines are extremely scarce. Currently, Treasures Pavilion doesn''t have any. If fellow Daoist desires one, perhaps you might try at a trading meeting held by Treasures Pavilion!" The middle-aged cultivator said as he took out a token engraved with the words "Treasures Pavilion."


    Upon seeing Lin Shiming''s puzzled look, the middle-aged cultivator spoke again:


    "Rest assured, fellow Daoist. This trading meeting is organized by the Purple Mansion Elder behind Treasures Pavilion. As long as you can bring out precious treasures, not to mention Third Rank vines, even Fourth Rank vines might be possible!"


    Lin Shiming became very interested upon hearing this. With the Heavenly Demon Sect in power, it made sense for a Purple Mansion cultivator to hold a trading meeting.


    Lin Shiming epted the token, thanked the cultivator, and then left Treasures Pavilion.


    Once back at his residence, Lin Shiming immediately administered the Limb-Regrowing Pill to the Red-haired Demon Monkey. After swallowing the pill, the spot where the monkey''s limb had been severed slowly began to emit red light, and a red monkey arm gradually formed.


    However, the newly grown arm was clearly fragile and would require significant conditioning.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey''s eyes shone as it examined its new limbs and let out constant howls. It began to swing its arms wildly and even attempted to grab the Profound Spirit Mountain, but Lin Shiming hastily stopped it.


    Then he took out Blood Crocodile Flowers and, following the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique''s elixir form, poured out a jar full of the concoction.


    The eyes of the Red-haired Demon Monkey sparkled with excitement, and it immediately leaped into the jar, not forgetting to howl excitedly at Lin Shiming.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming was able to put his mind at ease.


    But he feared that for the moment, the Red-haired Demon Monkey would not be much help to him.


    After checking on the monkey, Lin Shiming also made his way to the center of the Cave Heaven World.


    There, two Spirit Fields had been cultivated and were filled with an abundance of Spirit Soil. However, the Spiritual Energy of the Spirit Vein there had barely enough power for a Second Rank Inferior Grade, which was insufficient to nurture Purple Gold Vines. Only a few ordinary Second Rank Spiritual Medicines were nted there as a test.


    Lin Shiming exited the Cave Heaven World. With a trading meeting to attend in three days, he couldn''t practice the Split Spirit Decision, so he began to meditate on the Purple Wood Heart Sutra in his room.

 Chapter 194 Poisonous Dragon Vine and Treasure Map

    Three days flickered by, and Lin Shiming, in ordance with the agreement, donned a Spirit-Concealing Veil and arrived at a grand hall where the trading event was to take ce.


    The trading event operated on a barter system, akin to the Foundation Establishment event at the Daobao Tower of Qingxuan City that Lin Shiming had attended. The hall was vast, and as expected, most of the cultivators present were wearing Spirit-Concealing Veils.


    By the time Lin Shiming arrived, the hall was already seated with an impressive gathering of about thirty people.


    Their chosen spots were mostly towards the back.


    After surveying the room, Lin Shiming also picked a spot towards the rear and settled down quietly, then he began to contemte the treasures he could offer for exchange.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    More cultivators entered the hall in session, and after half an hour, it was nearly full. As the appointed time arrived, several people finally took their seats in the front rows of the hall.


    They were Purple Mansion cultivators.


    However, Lin Shiming did not see any Sect Purple Mansion cultivators among them; they were all powerful ancestors from the Purple Mansion families.


    "Alright, everyone has arrived. I am Daoguang, the Elder behind the curtain of the Zhenbao Pavilion. The reason for initiating this trading event is twofold. Firstly, with the demonic sects at our doorstep, everyone should exchange what they need to enhance their strength and prevent invasion!


    Secondly, the Dao Enlightenment Conference is around the corner, and there are undoubtedly talented geniuses among us. If you can exchange for some powerful treasure useful inbat, securing a spot in the Dao Enlightenment Conference and potentially acquiring Divine Skills, a future in the Purple Mansion could be within reach, thereby adding strength to Zhao Kingdom!"


    "Well, I won''t waste more words. This trading event will be conducted on a barter basis, of course. If any of you cannot exchange for the treasures you desire, you may also choose to sell them at a price. Everything is purely voluntary!" As the timemenced, a Purple Mansion cultivator in brocade robes stepped onto the stage.


    "The trading event will start with me setting the example!"


    Experience new stories on empire


    "A Fourth Rank Magical Artifact, the Bi Hong Sword, in exchange for a defensive Magical Treasure or Fourth Rank precious metal materials suitable for crafting defensive Magical Treasures, a Fourth Rank Demonic Beast Purple Clouded Leopard cub in exchange for a Fourth Rank defensive Magical Treasure or Fourth Rank defensive material, a Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, the Bloodthirsty Poison Needle, an assassin''s choice weapon that can easily pierce through the Spirit Shield of a Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator, for Fourth Rank defensive materials!


    A Third Rank Superior Grade Barrier-Breaking Pill that can improve a cultivator''s chances of breaking through thete stages of Foundation Establishment by thirty percent, in exchange for Fourth Rank defensive materials..."


    Hermit Daoguang listed four treasures in session, causing everyone in the grand hall to hold their breath.


    Whether it was the Magical Treasures or the Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, it made everyone''s heart beat faster.


    Even Lin Shiming''s heart was moved, though he had no Fourth Rank defensive Magical Treasures to offer, nor could he procure Fourth Rank defensive materials.


    The Fourth Rank Purple Clouded Leopard cub was quickly purchased by a Purple Mansion family member from the Qingxuan Sect, and to Lin Shiming''s surprise, both the Third Rank Supreme Grade Bloodthirsty Poison Needle and the Third Rank Superior Grade Barrier-Breaking Pill were exchanged by a cultivator at the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    As the exchanges concluded, many cultivators'' eyes fixed intently on the mid-Foundation Establishment stage cultivator.


    It was as if they wanted to see through the veil and discern the cultivator''s face.


    Naturally, this was not possible, unless one of the cultivators present could disregard Hermit Daoguang and forcefully probe the other cultivator with Divine Sense. Even if it were possible, it would surely offend Hermit Daoguang.


    After sessfully exchanging three items, Hermit Daoguang stepped down from the stage with a joyous expression and was followed by another Purple Mansion cultivator.


    The Purple Mansion cultivators who reced him were clearly there to exchange for defensive Magical Treasures or Fourth Rank Defense Talismans.


    Lin Shiming saw many treasures he had never heard of before, which greatly broadened his horizons.


    After the Purple Mansion cultivators, it was time for Foundation Establishment cultivators to make their exchanges.


    The first Foundation Establishment cultivator to step onto the stage was one in thete stages of Foundation Establishment who produced a Jade Slip and a bag of seeds.


    Then he spoke indifferently,


    "Here, Jia has a Wood Demonic Beast enhancement Secret Technique, along with Third Rank Superior Grade seeds of the Poisonous Dragon Vine. Only looking to exchange for a Third Rank Superior Grade Escape Talisman or an equivalent thousand-year-old Spiritual Liquid!"


    Lin Shiming had not expected that a Foundation Establishment cultivatoring up to the stage first would present something he was interested in.


    Whether it was the Demonic Beast enhancement secret technique or the third rank superior grade Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds, both were items he needed at the moment.


    The former could improve the Demonic Beast, which would allow his Mingxin Tea Tree to break through the third rank, while thetter would significantly enhance hisbat strength.


    Regardless of whether he participated in the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment Conference, they were good items for exchange.


    "Fellow Jia, I have Dragon Blood Grass, Monster Attraction Grass, a third rank intermediate grade Tiangang Sword Formation, and a third rank superior grade magical treasure, the Monster Binding Ring. I wonder if you might be interested?" Lin Shiming also decisively transmitted his voice to the cultivator surnamed Jia.


    He then stepped forward and took out his Storage Bag, allowing the other party to inspect it with their Divine Sense.


    However, to Lin Shiming''s disappointment, the cultivator named Jia clearly shook his head and didn''t agree to the exchange.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to give up and wait for other cultivators to see if he could make an exchange.


    Until the very end, the cultivator named Jia did not sessfully make a trade.


    Lin Shiming''s expression was also not very good.


    Not only had he seen the Demonic Beast enhancement secret technique and the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds this time, but he was unable to trade for them.


    The trading session continued, and Lin Shiming did not find any third rank Spirit Vine seeds or the Demonic Beast enhancement secret technique again.


    But just then, he saw a cultivator in a yellow robe suddenly take out three treasures. One of them, Lin Shiming was exceptionally familiar with¡ªa treasure map. He had two such maps in his Storage Bag.


    "One map to the Qingxuan Secret Realm Ancient Medicine Garden, one third rank supreme grade Wind Escape Talisman! I will only trade for body tempering spiritual materials or Body Tempering Spirit Pills!"


    Lin Shiming was hearing about the origin of the treasure map for the first time, but he was somewhat skeptical. With so many copies of the treasure map avable, being taken out for trade could still be a trap.


    However, to his surprise, a Purple Mansion Family cultivator traded for the map, which sparked lively discussions among many cultivators.


    What surprised him even more was that the cultivator named Jia took the initiative to contact him:


    "Fellow Lin, I wonder if your Dragon Blood Grass is still avable for exchange?"


    "Fellow Jia really knows how to calcte!" ''Fellow Lin'' was naturally an alias for Lin Shiming, but obviously, since Jia could not get the third rank supreme grade Wind Escape Talisman, he thought of exchanging Lin''s Dragon Blood Grass first, and then try to trade for the talisman.


    And how would Lin Shiming give the other party a pleasant face!


    "At this critical moment of battle, please forgive me, Fellow Lin!" The cultivator surnamed Jia continued to transmit his voice, which also contained a hint of helplessness.


    "We can trade, but I will trade my five Dragon Blood Grasses only for your Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds. In addition, I will use the Monster Binding Ring in exchange for your Demonic Beast enhancement secret technique!" Lin Shiming spoke again, and after hesitating for a while, the cultivator named Jia finally agreed.


    Lin Shiming finally obtained the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds and the Demonic Beast enhancement secret technique. However, that secret technique, though called so, was actually just a form for a third rank Spiritual Liquid, simr to a pill form. It was only capable of elevating the Demonic Beast to the third rank, far inferior to his Bloodline Reversion Secret Technique.


    But for the moment, the Demonic Beast''s enhancement was indeed needed.


    When it was Lin Shiming''s turn to go on stage, he took out the Tiangang Sword Formation, but no one traded for it, so Lin Shiming simply stepped down.


    He had already obtained the items he wanted.


    The trading session soon ended, and as Lin Shiming walked out of the trading hall, he received a transmission from Lin Xianzhi.


    The Zi Xuan Hermit had also arrived in Jiuye City.

 Chapter 195 Bestow Sword

    Jiuye City was divided into four cities: East City and North City were areas for the exclusive use of the Spirit Beast Sect, while South City and West City weremercial districts. East City and North City were located at the foot of Jiuye Mountain.


    And the legendary White Fir Divine Tree was also on Jiuye Mountain.


    East City housed the cave dwellings of the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect, while West City had cave dwellings reserved for entertaining distinguished guests and for temporary leasing.


    As Lin Shiming walked through North City, he marveled at Jiuye Mountain and the rows of cave dwellings. The Spirit Vein at Jiuye Mountain was a Fifth Rank vein. The headquarters of the Spirit Beast Sect was not located here, and the cultivators simply couldn''t saturate the Spirit Vein.


    Renting out the cave dwellings to loose cultivators and other sect cultivators also brought in significant revenue for the sect.


    Even some loose cultivators facing major cultivation bottlenecks could rent a cave dwelling to make a breakthrough.


    As an ally of the Spirit Beast Sect, Zi Xuan Hermit naturally had an exclusive cave dwelling in North City.


    After a moment of silence, Lin Shiming saw a cultivator in a green robe descend on his sword:


    "Junior Brother Lin, the master has summoned you!"


    "Thank you for letting me know, Senior Brother!" Lin Shiming thanked him repeatedly, then entered Zi Xuan Hermit''s cave dwelling, where he met Zi Xuan Hermit in a bright and spacious stone chamber.


    Zi Xuan Hermit, still in a purple robe, was the picture of transcendence. Next to him on the table, a teapot was brewing Spiritual Tea, wafts of steam carrying spiritual energy drifting up.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Shiming pays respects to Master!" Lin Shiming stepped forward to pay his respects.


    "Not bad, you have reached the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage so quickly!" Zi Xuan Hermit, seeing that Lin Shiming had indeed progressed to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage as Xie An had reported, was pleasantly surprised.


    "Did I hear that you encountered Chen Yui from the Heavenly Demon Sect and even managed to counter-kill him?"


    "It was pure luck, and it''s all thanks to Senior Brother Xie!" Lin Shiming replied modestly. In front of Zi Xuan Hermit, he did not dare to take credit. It was, after all, Xie An who had consumed the life-exhausting Elixir and held off the Dark Tiger Heavenly Demon Banner, or else none of them would have escaped.


    "Xie An also reported to me. There''s no need for excessive modesty; young people should have some sharpness!" Zi Xuan Hermit drank a cup of tea, then looked directly at Lin Shiming.


    "Thank you for your teaching, Master. Shiming will keep it in mind!" Lin Shiming, seeing Zi Xuan Hermit''s gaze, was a bit confused but bowed his head in acknowledgment.


    "You''ve been practicing the Grass Character Sword Technique, haven''t you? How is your progress?" After offering a polite concern, Zi Xuan Hermit asked again.


    Zi Xuan Hermit''s tone was clearly hurried with this question, and Lin Shiming even felt that Zi Xuan Hermit had discovered the Sword Qi and the seeds of the Grass Character Sword Technique on him.


    What made him all the more thoughtful was that Zi Xuan Hermit had not called for Lin Xianzhi. In the past, Zi Xuan Hermit had valued Lin Xianzhi more highly.


    It was likely that Zi Xuan Hermit was already aware of Lin Xianzhi''s dwindling lifespan.


    "Reporting to Master, I should have reached the entry level of the Grass Character Sword Technique, but I still do not understand the true meaning of the technique," Lin Shiming replied honestly. Hearing Lin Xianzhi put it this way, Zi Xuan Hermit bowed his head.


    After pondering for a moment, Zi Xuan Hermit spoke again:


    "Oh, what do you not understand? Let your master rify it for you!"


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming expressed all his doubts about practicing the Grass Character Sword Technique. Of course, many of these doubts had already been corrected by the system, and he also inquired about several correct aspects.


    Zi Xuan Hermit answered each question, and Lin Shiming listened with utmost seriousness, but it was obvious that Zi Xuan Hermit''s guidance was not as precise as the system''s prompts, with many aspects of the sword techniques still somewhat wed.


    However, Lin Shiming put on an excellent performance and revealed nothing. After his questions were answered, Zi Xuan Hermit''s brows furrowed, clearly worried about Lin Shiming''sprehension.


    "Is there a problem with the third stance of the sword technique?"


    Following that, the Zi Xuan Hermit questioned Lin Shiming about his sword technique and what rmed him was that this time the questions contained both correct and incorrect points.


    And there were five consecutive questions.


    Clearly, at this moment, the Zi Xuan Hermit had grown suspicious that he was intentionally concealing something, but fortunately, every time Lin Shiming made a mistake, there was a system prompt to correct him, and his response this time relied entirely on his own understanding before any system prompts.


    The Zi Xuan Hermit furrowed his brow, pondered for a moment, and then spoke:


    "Go find your senior brother and have him provide you with information on yourpetitors for this event. The Jiuye Dao Enlightenment tform is an excellent opportunity for you. As a disciple recognized by name, you too have a chance!"


    After speaking, the Zi Xuan Hermit picked up his teacup, gently brushed the lid, and blew on the steam rising from it.


    "Additionally, this Supreme Grade magic sword, the Zi Sword, carries the spirit of ''Purple Qi Coming from the East.'' It is of little use to your master now, so I''m entrusting it to you!"


    At this moment, Lin Shiming was somewhat taken aback. He had not expected the Zi Xuan Hermit to ask him to participate in the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment tformpetition, to vie for one of the only two spots avable, and to even give him a Supreme Grade magic sword.


    Lin Shiming received the Supreme Grade magic sword and saw that it was a purple sword, enveloped in a purple aura, its sharpness going without saying. Even among supreme grade magic artifacts, it was a rare fine piece, much more powerful than the Cloud Sword he had taken from Lu Changming.


    And at this time within the Spirit Beast Sect, he dared not use either the Purple Gold Gourd or the Cloud Sword.


    Otherwise, when the Lu Family came knocking, Lin Shiming would inevitably be pursued.


    "Thank you, Master. Shiming will go find Senior Brother Xie right away!"


    Lin Shiming stowed away the Zi Sword and then bowed respectfully to take his leave.


    Since the Zi Xuan Hermit had requested he participate in the Jiuyepetition, wishing not to take part was no longer an option for Lin Shiming.


    And if he was to participate, Lin Shiming naturally aimed for one of the two Dao Enlightenment slots.


    Of course, what he was curious about was whether the system prompt would lead to unexpected gains.


    The scenes of sword dao enlightenment from the Grass Character Sword Technique were still vivid in his mind.


    Xie An, as a Sect Cultivator, had also acquired a temporary cave dwelling in the North City district, although its location was off to the side at the foot of the mountains, and the spiritual energy was clearly distinct.


    Lin Shiming used a Sound Transmission Talisman, and thetter, having just finished his Cultivation, saw Lin Shiming outside his cave dwelling and promptly invited him in. Your journey continues on empire


    Compared to the cave dwelling of the Zi Xuan Hermit, Xie An''s was more rudimentary, but this was not due to Xie An being more frugal; rather, it was simply how the Spirit Beast Sect arranged things.


    "Shiming, please take a seat!" After having been through life and death battles together, Xie An was much more familiar with Lin Shiming.


    Xie An also quickly fetched a teapot and poured Lin Shiming a cup. The Spiritual Tea was light and fragrant, its aroma lingering but not dispersing, and just smelling the mist of the tea was enough to invigorate the mind and wake the senses.


    It was the very Mingxin Tea that Lin Shiming had previously given to Xie An.


    "Shiming, this is the information Master asked me to find for you. You have quite a few strongpetitors this time..." Xie An took out a Jade Slip but furrowed his brow as he began speaking.


    "In the past decade, there have been three sessful Dao enlightenments, each directly grasping the nascent form of a Minor Divine Ability. After breaking through to the Purple Mansion, they condensed the Minor Divine Ability, far surpassing the average Purple Mansion cultivator¡ªa discovery I also made during this visit!"

 Chapter 196 The Wondrous Uses of the Flood Dragon Vine

    Xie An''s words also made Lin Shiming involuntarily recall the events of the trade fair, no wonder the fair was so bustling with so many attendees.


    It seemed that thepetition at this Jiuye Dao Enlightenment Conference would far exceed that of the past.


    Especially in the face of great danger, increasing one''s strength by even a little could enhance one''sbat power proportionally.


    Despite the age limit of sixty years, Lin Shiming did not believe that being at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage would allow him to dominate unopposed.


    But looking at it from another angle, it also indicated that the path of Dao Enlightenment was truly extraordinary, and it was probably indeed the Dao Tree of True Person Baishan.


    "Shiming, you need to pay close attention to these three individuals from the Spirit Beast Sect, Chen Yuan, the Spirit Talisman Sect''s Xu Hao, and Ye Changyuan from the Purple Mansion Family of Qingzhou.


    These three are cultivators with the capability topete for the top two spots and have not secured a guaranteed entry!" As Xie An handed over the jade slip to Lin Shiming, he also introduced them.


    "Among these three, Chen Yuan is widely recognized as the strongest. At fifty-nine years old, with a cultivation level at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, Chen Yuan is a Dual Spirit Root Cultivator specializing in fire-element techniques, and his beast taming is extremely strong.


    If it weren''t for the weak backing of the Spirit Beast Sect, he would have had a good chance of securing a designated spot!"


    "Xu Hao is also not to be underestimated. Although he has a Third Spirit Root, his talent for talisman practice is extremely great. Now at fifty-two years old, not only is his cultivation at thete stage of Foundation Establishment, but he is also a Superior Grade Third-Rank Talisman Master. Be cautious of his various spirit talismans!"


    ...


    Xie An meticulously introduced them, and Lin Shiming nodded,mitting each detail to memory. With this information, his confidence grew substantially.


    In battles between cultivators, when strengths are nearly equal, victory or defeat could hinge on minor details.


    This was especially true for a cultivator like Lin Shiming, who had extensive battle experience.


    Moreover, Lin Shiming was quite confident this time, having first obtained the seeds of the Poisonous Dragon Vine, then acquired the supreme grade magic sword Zi Sword, in addition to his own Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, his confidence was indeed not insignificant.


    After listening to Xie An''s introduction, before they realized it, the teapot had run dry. Lin Shiming also took out a jade box filled with Mingxin tea leaves from his storage bag, ced it on the table, and brewed another pot.


    Under the stimtion of spells, the teapot quickly began to emit wafts of fragrant spiritual mist again.


    "By the way, Shiming, the Dragon Lizard meat and essence blood have already been entrusted to my good friend. He is in Jiuye City at the moment and should be able to concoct the Dragon Blood Pills in no more than two months!" Xie An suddenly remembered the Dragon Lizard meat and smiled as he spoke.


    Two months was indeed not a long time for cultivators, and upon hearing this, Lin Shiming was overjoyed.


    With the Dragon Blood Pill, not only would Lin Houshou have the opportunity to break through Foundation Establishment, but Lin Xianzhi could also improve his vitality and dy aging to some extent.


    It is known that Lin Xianzhi''s lifespan had greatly diminished, primarily due to excessive consumption of vitality. Extending his life was not certain, but there was sure to be some dy in its decline.


    "Brother Xie, thank you for your hospitality. Then, Shiming shall take his leave!" After finishing his tea, Lin Shiming also suggested leaving.


    After the farewell, Xie An stood up to see him off, and it seemed like he remembered something:


    "Shiming, work hard to improve your strength. In five years, the Sect will likely open the Profound Grade Secret Realm. This will be your Lin Family''s opportunity to return to the Purple Mansion!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming felt his heart stir.


    What Xie An referred to was the fact that among the three majorponents of the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid found within the Profound Grade Secret Realm, those who performed great feats for the Sect could be granted some.


    And this was the greatest reason why Lin Shiming wanted to learn the Grass Character Sword Technique, as entering the Secret Realm was an unavoidable necessity.


    The reason why Zi Xuan Hermit was so certain was that for the Lin Family to restore their status within the Purple Mansion Family, they needed to enter the Secret Realm.


    "Thank you for the reminder, Brother Xie!" Lin Shiming thanked him once again and then rode his sword back to his residence. After recounting the events to Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shiming once again went into seclusion.


    This retreat was first to refine the two Spirit Swords, especially the Zi Sword, which was extremelypatible with his Purple Wood Heart Sutra. If used, at a critical moment, it wouldn''t be inferior to his Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    Second, it was to master the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds.


    Meanwhile, the Lin Family members, buoyed by Lin Shiming''s return, began to frequently attend various auctions.


    They aimed to acquire as many Superior Grade Spirit Talismans and special Magic Artifacts for Lin Shiming as possible.


    Moreover, after the battle in Heavenly River City, all of the Lin Family cultivators disyed signs of breakthroughs and needed to purchase Spirit Pills, especially Lei Xuan, who, with his Thunder Spirit Root, had already broken through to the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and started polishing his Spiritual Energy.


    He was likely to achieve Foundation Establishment even before Lin Shiyi.


    Of course, what was most important was to bid for Foundation Establishment Pills at the auctions. At the moment, Lin Houwei had a Foundation Establishment Pill and had already entered closed-door cultivation, while Lin Houshou could also break through to Foundation Establishment with a Bloodline Pill.


    Together with the Foundation Establishment Pills for Lei Xuan and Lin Shiyi, the Lin Family was just four pills shy of their requirement.


    Fortunately, the Lin Family was not short of Spirit Stones now.


    And Lin Shiming once again immersed himself in secluded cultivation.


    Time flew by in the blink of an eye, and after two months, Lin Shiming finally opened his eyes. In this retreat, not only had hepletely refined the Zi Sword and Laiyun Sword, but he had also exhausted all of the Dragon Lizard meat, Dragon Lizard Essence Blood, and Dragon Blood Grass.


    Of course, the results were surprisingly good, and his Body Refining Cultivation smoothly broke through to Foundation Establishment.


    Now, not only was his Qi Cultivation remarkable, but he was also formidable in closebat.


    In his delight, Lin Shiming''s thoughts shifted, and he entered his Cave Heaven World.


    With his index and middle fingers forming a sword technique, the Zi Sword instantly flew out, transforming into a thirty-zhang-long giant sword in the blink of an eye.


    Like the moment when the morning sun rises, billowing purple qi heralding the east, the sword radiance shone in all directions, extremely dazzling!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Not bad!" Lin Shiming ultimately resisted shing down. His Cave Heaven World was still too small, but the radiance of the sword was enough to show that the Zi Sword''s enhancement to his abilities far exceeded expectations.


    The Laiyun Sword, though somewhat inferior to the spirit sword, was still a Supreme Grade Magic Sword, perfect for a surprise attack at a critical moment.


    After testing the two swords, Lin Shiming then took out the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds.


    What made Lin Shiming frown was that infusing the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds with Spiritual Energy took an unusually long time;pared to identical Purple Gold Vine seeds, it was three times longer. In abat situation, this could be a major drawback.


    And this was with the amplification from his Purple Wood Heart Sutra andtent Spiritual Body. Otherwise, the time needed for an ordinary cultivator to infuse and catalyze would be even longer!


    "Rise!" As Lin Shiming formed another Spirit Art, the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds suddenly burst forth.


    Unlike the slow infusion rate, the catalysis was shockingly fast, so much that it outpaced even the Third Rank Inferior Grade Green Snake Vine. In almost an instant, it seemed as if real Flood Dragons were surging out. Your next chapter awaits on empire


    Furthermore, the Poisonous Dragon Vine emitted a sky-full of poison mist, causing many of the normal Spirit Grasses in the Cave Heaven World to wither instantly.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming promptly released the Golden Winged Mantis to test it out, which moved in a golden Escape Light. At this moment, it was even entangled by the Poisonous Dragon Vine and only managed to sever it with a fierce chop of its golden forelimbs.


    What filled him with surprise was that even the severed Poisonous Dragon Vine remained under control and continued to roll in the sky like Flood Dragons, aiming to bind the Golden Winged Mantis again.


    The Golden Winged Mantis, caught off guard, was once more entangled, this time around its forelimbs, leaving it unable to exert any strength.


    Being tightly bound, it could only squeak incessantly in urgency, as if it too were perplexed as to why the severed Poisonous Dragon Vine still had the capacity to bind.

 Chapter 197 Entrusting

    Lin Shiming, as the spellcaster, now wore a smile of sheer joy.


    Although it took a long time to infuse spiritual energy into the Poisonous Dragon Vine seeds, the catalysis time was not long, and the severed vine continuing to entwine would definitely catch the enemy by surprise.


    Even a Demonic Beast like the Golden Winged Mantis, known for its speed, wouldn''t be able to react in time.


    As for the intricacies, Lin Shiming had finally discovered that as long as the vine''s tendrils stayed within the poison mist, they could be controlled indefinitely, which was also why the infusion took so long.


    When facing the poison mist, cultivators would generally open a Spirit Shield to block it, never expecting that a chopped vine could still attack.


    The testing of the Poisonous Dragon Vine had left him extremely satisfied. The only w was that there were only a little over ten seeds, and even with his Purple Wood Heart Sutra continuously nurturing, it would still take five years. For an ordinary cultivator, the catalyzing time would take over a decade.


    Of course, what mattered was when the war would end and when he could start nurturing the seeds.


    Lin Shiming retracted the vines, then fed the Golden Winged Mantis some second-rank Supreme Grade Beast Nurturing Pills and the flesh of spirit beasts.


    These Supreme Grade Beast Nurturing Pills, which he bought from the Spirit Beast Sect''s shop, were far more effective than ordinary pills, improving several times more. After consuming just a few, the Golden Winged Mantis had grownrger, nowparable to a robust ox.


    And what he found remarkable was that beneath the wings of the Golden Winged Mantis, there seemed to be a bulge forming.


    As if a fourth pair of wings was about to grow.


    Its spirit might was on the verge of entering the early stage peak of the third rank, with any moment possibly bringing a breakthrough to the third rank middle stage.


    This gave Lin Shiming even greater expectations for the Golden Winged Mantis.


    After calming the Golden Winged Mantis, Lin Shiming also let out the Red-haired Demon Monkey to soothe it. At this moment, the monkey had mostly recovered, its arms barely able to hold the Crimson me Rod, swinging it with fierce might. With each movement, it could even draw upon Strange Fire to augment the power of the Crimson me Rod massively.


    Profound Spirit Mountain, however, seemed to be somewhat disdainful to the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    But for the time being, Lin Shiming had no ns to send the Red-haired Demon Monkey back into battle.


    After feeding the Red-haired Demon Monkey, he stored it in the Spirit Beast Bag as the level of spiritual energy in the Cave Heaven World was only of an inferior grade second rank, which even Qi Cultivators would likely scorn for cultivation¡ªnaturally, Lin Shiming couldn''t leave them there.


    Lin Shiming emerged from the Cave Heaven World, but in the next moment, he saw a sh of Spirit Light flying toward him, which he caught in his hand. It was a message transmission.


    On a closer look, it was indeed from his great uncle Lin Xianzhi. Your next read awaits at empire


    Having just found a moment of respite, Lin Shiming went straight to Lin Xianzhi''s room.


    Inside the room, his father, Lin Houyuan, was also present, and the two seemed to be discussing something.


    "Shiming pays respects to Great Uncle and Father!" Lin Shiming said respectfully with a wave of his hand, and Lin Xianzhi along with Lin Houyuan nodded back with smiles.


    For the two of them, it had nearly be a habit to smile whenever they saw Lin Shiming.


    It wasn''t just the joy of seeing a younger member of the family but also the hope of the Lin Family.


    "Shiming, the Nine Leaves Competition is in three days. The family has acquired a few items for you!" Lin Xianzhi said with a smile, then handed a Storage Bag to Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming took the Storage Bag, and in the next moment saw inside: a Supreme Grade Spirit Talisman and a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, the Spirit Shield. Both were teeming with spirit might, extremely extraordinary.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    ```


    This rmed Lin Shiming greatly. A Supreme Grade Spirit Talisman wasn''t too bad, three or four hundred thousand Inferior Grade Spirit Stones would suffice, but a Supreme Grade Magic Artifact like the Spirit Shield, being a premium Third Rank magic artifact, would cost at least a million Spirit Stones, and possibly even more if it came to an auction.


    Not to mention that prices were even higher during the current turmoil of war.


    Apart from that, this Spirit Shield alone could probably deplete Lin Xianzhi''s resources, and to this day, Lin Xianzhi still did not possess a Supreme Grade magic shield, not even a Superior Grade Spirit Shield.


    "Seventh Great-uncle, father, this is too precious!"


    "This is what you deserve as the Family Head. Remember, the family doesn''t just rely on your protection. Besides, if you manage to seize the opportunity for Dao Enlightenment this time andprehend Divine Skills, the chances of reaching the Purple Mansion will greatly increase.


    That''s when the family will truly reap endless benefits and possibly restore the glory of the Purple Mansion Family," Lin Xianzhi solemnly lectured, but seeing that Lin Shiming was still visibly worried, he added:


    "However, rest assured, the family has also purchased new magic artifacts for your father and Seventh Great-uncle for this asion. Otherwise, we would have considered adding a Supreme Grade magic sword for you!"


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming nodded and epted it, without showing much emotion, which, of course, was impossible.


    But he understood better that what he needed to do was to strive in his cultivation, and at the same time, vie for the opportunity for Dao Enlightenment to envision the embryonic form of Divine Skills.


    Comprehending Divine Skills in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment was an unbelievably fanciful notion, but just grasping the barest hint of Divine Skills would not only double his chances of breaking through to Purple Mansion, it would also allow him toplete the skills upon reaching Purple Mansion, and cultivate a true Minor Divine Ability.


    It should be known that even the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, a miraculous elixir for breaking through to the Purple Mansion, only increases the chances by thirty percent.


    Of course, participating in the Nine Leaves Dao Enlightenment does not guaranteeprehension of Divine Skills Embryos; in past years there wasn''t even such a legend. It was only after thest Nine Leaves Dao Enlightenment, when three peopleprehended the embryos of Divine Skills, that the significance of the Dao Enlightenment tform was elevated to its highest esteem.


    "Shiming, these items will also be entrusted to you for safekeeping. With your current strength, you might not be much inferior to me!" Lin Xianzhi looked at Lin Shiming''s resolute gaze and grew increasingly satisfied. After much thought, he took down another Storage Bag and handed it to Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming was somewhat puzzled at the moment, but he still subconsciously epted the Storage Bag and probed it with his Divine Sense.


    To his astonishment, inside the Storage Bag were two Purple Mansion Magical Treasures that their Lin Family had harvested from the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion¡ªthe Gold Light Brick and the Heaven-Breaking Ring!


    As well as the Spirit Seeking te that the Lin Family had moved out of the Purple Mansion Cave Mansion along with the Spirit Vein; it should be known that contained within this te was an Inferior Grade Fourth Rank Spirit Vein.


    "Seventh Great-uncle, these items are too valuable, Shiming might have difficulty safeguarding them..." Lin Shiming said, feeling somewhat apprehensive at the moment.


    "What, the Family Head doesn''t safeguard them, so an old man like me who''s about to be buried should take charge?" Lin Xianzhi retorted.


    Lin Shiming felt a jolt in his heart and was momentarily speechless.


    He couldn''t help but look towards Lin Xianzhi''s hair and face, filled with concern.


    Clearly, the most worrying scene was about to unfold; Lin Xianzhi''s lifespan was not much longer, and he had already entrusted the family to others.


    "Don''t worry, this old man can still hold on for five or six more years!" Lin Xianzhi said nonchntly, then waved his hand, signaling Lin Shiming to go and prepare, not giving Lin Shiming a chance to refuse.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming had no choice but to take his leave, and Lin Houyuan also exited the room with him.


    At this moment, Lin Xianzhi sat in the chair, took out the Qinglian Sword, and continuously caressed its patterns.


    His gaze seemed to pierce through time, faintly envisioning a spirited young man, kneeling before an old man in a purple robe who smiled kindly.


    And the elder, handing over his most cherished Qinglian Sword.


    Along with the jade slip of the Renshui Geng Metal Art.


    ```

 Chapter 198 The Way of the Heart

    Lin Shiming walked down the corridor with Lin Houyuan, and at that moment, Lin Shiming suddenly remembered that it had been a long time since he had walked with his father.


    Busy with cultivation and the threat from the Heavenly Demon Sect, he could hardly catch his breath, and neither could the Lin Family.


    Fleeing, fighting to the death, enduring hardship in practice!


    They hadn''t rxed for a moment.


    Of course, it wasn''t just his father; his interactions with the rest of the younger generations and his own generation had also be much colder.


    At that moment, he suddenly realized that cultivators, too, were slowly aging, and old friends were gradually disappearing. Several of his uncles and elders from the Hou generation could never return to Fangmu Mountain, never return to the Lin Family.


    Without achieving immortality, the pursuit of cultivation would eventually be in vain.


    At that moment, he thought of Lin Yuqing. If he calcted correctly, the Great Elder Lin Yuqing was already over one hundred and ten years old, with not many years left until his one hundred and twentieth birthday.


    But being a Body Refining Cultivator, he looked full of vigor, like a middle-aged man.


    However, he understood that when the Great Elder''s birthday approaches, he would age rapidly, just like the Second Elder Lin Yuqi.


    Dust to dust, earth to earth.


    Only on the Lin Family n genealogy and the Family Jade Book would a record remain.


    Lin Houyuan also continued to discuss matters of the family with him, talking about current deficiencies of the family and unfulfilled wishes.


    This time, they talked a lot.


    It felt as though they were not in Jiuye City at that moment but next to the Yinzhi Pavilion on Fangmu Mountain.


    "Shiming, you should start thinking about a lifelongpanion," Lin Houyuan suddenly said without rhyme or reason.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Lin Shiming was a little stunned at the moment, but then he realized that while his own generation was obsessed with bing stronger, the Xian, Yu, and Hou generations were thinking about when they would have to sacrifice themselves for the family''s protection and heritage¡­


    The number of cultivators in the family had fallen from forty to only a handful now, not a burden on Lin Shiming''s shoulders, but rather on the shoulders of Lin Xianzhi, Lin Houyuan, and other elderly family members.


    "I''ll consider it!" Lin Shiming replied ambiguously, for the first time not rejecting the idea outright.


    Perhaps apanion is indeed needed on the road of immortal cultivation.


    In Lin Shiming''s mind, a lovely figure shed by.


    "Shiming, as the Family Head, you should also pay attention to the other members of the family!" Lin Houyuan spoke again.


    In the nearly seven years since he came to the Heavenly River State, Lin Shiming had almost always been in seclusion or battle.


    Lin Shiming nodded his head and then took his leave from Lin Houyuan, first visiting Lin Yuqing.


    The two talked about the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique, and as thetter grew excited, he demonstrated the power of a Foundation Establishment Body Refinement Cultivator, making Lin Yuqingugh heartily.


    He also quietly listened to Lin Yuqing''s views and experiences about Body Refinement Cultivators.


    In the end, they talked about Lin Shilei. The Great Elder Lin Yuqingughed, saying Lin Shilei had left the mountain to gain experience at the age of fifteen, two years earlier than Lin Shiming had, with a proud tone andughter more joyous than ever.


    Lin Shiming visited the Fifth Elder Lin Yuzheng and listened to him tell stories of the family''s merchant caravans; he had not imagined that his uncle had once been a carefree young man.


    He also listened to the Second Elder Lin Houshou talk about formations, as if he were back in the Treasure Pavilion, listening to the essentials of basic spells.


    The Second Elder, at that moment, was brimming with vitality, especially upon learning that the Dragon Blood Pill might give him a chance to break through to the Foundation Establishment level, Lin Shiming seemed to see a Third Rank Array Master in his lively expression.


    Lin Houwei didn''t say much to Lin Shiming; the two of them simply took out their wine sks and drank merrily.


    And the wine was none other than the Monkey Wine that Lin Shiming had discovered, brewed by the Lin Family.


    Speaking of which, it had been nearly ten years since Lin Shiming had a taste of Monkey Wine after acquiring the Mingxin Tea Tree; now as he drank it again, it tasted both astringent and sweet.


    At this moment, he couldn''t help but recall the amusing incidents in Qingtao Town.


    The teasing from his third sister, and that shy girl, Lin Shitao, who by now was probably already a Second Rank Superior Grade alchemist of the Lin Family.


    Stay connected through empire


    In a conversation with his second brother, Lin Shiyi, Lin Shiming heard about Lin Shimo. In his words, Lin Shiyi was full of regret, believing that if Lin Shimo had stayed, with the family''s current strength, they would have beenpletely capable of purchasing a Foundation Establishment Pill for him.


    And now, with the Corpse Refining Sect attacking Zhao Kingdom, if they were to meet on the battlefield, how would he face it?


    Lin Shiming made it a point to meet every member of the Lin Family.


    That night, he sat in the courtyard of Laiyue Tower for the entire night.


    At this moment, his resolve for cultivating towards immortality and protecting his family was firmer than ever before.


    He also had to seize this opportunity at the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment tform.


    The next day, Lin Shiming entered the Cave Heaven World and took out the Spirit-Seeking te that contained a Fourth Rank Inferior Grade Spiritual Vein.


    Before the Purple Mansion, the Lin Family was unable to install a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, but since Lin Xianzhi had given it to him, he might as well ce the Spiritual Vein into the Cave Heaven space. Not only would this prevent others from discovering it, but it would also aid him in sessfully cultivating the seeds of the Purple Gold Vine and the Poisonous Dragon Vine.


    Moreover, the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey would no longer need to stay confined in the Storage Bag; in the Cave Heaven World, they could rapidly strengthen through cultivation.


    In the Cultivation World, extracting Spiritual Veins requires cultivators to cast special Spirit Arts and have expertise in the knowledge of Spirit-Seeking Masters.


    But cing a Spiritual Vein is much simpler, which is also why some Spirit-Seeking Master loose cultivators specialize in extracting Spiritual Veins from unknown mountain ranges to sell to Cultivator Families.


    No sooner had the Spirit-Seeking te flown out than it floated in mid-air, and a roaring sound akin to a dragon''s chant was heard. Then, one could see a yellow Spiritual Energy, resembling a true dragon, surging toward the depths of the Cave Heaven World.


    The next moment, the Spiritual Energy in this space violently surged, and the Spirit nts he had previously nted began to grow wildly almost instantly.


    These ordinary Spirit Grasses had never enjoyed such an abundance of Spiritual Energy.


    "A Third Rank Supreme Grade pinnacle Spiritual Vein!" Lin Shiming, feeling the Spiritual Energy, was also quite delighted.


    This Spiritual Vein had been cut and extracted back when he collected it due to limitations of his Spirit-Seeking te, but now reaching a Third Rank Supreme Grade made him extremely satisfied.


    Even if he managed to break through to the Purple Mansionter and took this Spiritual Vein out to ce on Fangmu Mountain, there was a great likelihood that the Spiritual Vein would transform into a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein.


    Once the Spiritual Vein was ced, Lin Shiming proceeded to nt the seeds of the Purple Gold Vine, Green Snake Vine, and Poisonous Dragon Vine, and then nourished them with the Purple Wood True Essence from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    After all this was done, another day had passed.


    Lin Shiming then released the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    Upon being freed, the two Spirit Beasts ran about wildly within the space, particrly the Red-haired Demon Monkey, whose eyes sparkled with curiosity and who was exceedingly excited. With this Spiritual Vein in the Cave Heaven  World, they would no longer need to enter the cramped space of the Spirit Beast Bag.


    Subsequently, Lin Shiming took out the Spirit-Devouring Ants and ced them in a corner. With the Blood Covenant, he wasn''t afraid that these ants would nibble away his Cave Heaven World.


    Finally, Lin Shiming began to take out the Storage Bag to examine the Spirit Shield purchased by Lin Xianzhi.


    The name of the Spirit Shield was Star Wood Shield, its main material constructed from meteoric starwood, exceedingly tough.


    Even a regr Superior Grade magic sword could hardly break through the shield.


    After stroking it a few times, Lin Shiming began to joyously refine the Star Wood Shield, as the Jiuye Conference was on the morrow.


    He had toplete the refinement of the Star Wood Shield by then.

 Chapter 199 The Grand Competition Begins

    Atop Jiuye Mountain, the main trunk of the white fir Spirit Tree was incredibly thick, like a column reaching into the heavens, extending straight into the clouds.


    The spirited leaves of the white fir were also exceptionally outstanding, cluster after cluster, radiating a lush, green Spirit Light.


    What elicited admiration, however, was that every hundred meters there would be one or two gigantic spirited leaves, akin to a tform for Cultivation. With nine leaves, they formed the nine Dao Enlightenment tforms, a once-in-a-decade achievement.


    The Cultivators ascending the mountain all stopped to gaze from afar, amazed at the grandeur of the white fir Spirit Tree and the profound mystery of the Dao Enlightenment tforms, growing increasingly expectant of today''s Jiuye Grand Competition.


    Lin Shiming was among them, alongside him were Xie An, and Lin Xianzhi.


    The Jiuye Grand Competition unfolded at the waist of Jiuye Mountain, though as this area belonged to the Spirit Beast Sect''s territory, unless one was from the Purple Mansion, they could only ascend by foot.


    The numbers of Cultivatorsing and going were extraordinarilyrge, owing not only to the bustling activity of Jiuye City but also to the significant number of Cultivators from Heavenly River State who had withdrawn to Jiuye City,


    Cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect could attack the city at any moment. Naturally, the Cultivators who usually secluded themselves in deep Cultivation became even scarcer while thoseing to watch the Jiuye Grand Competition increased.


    The three moved neither too quickly nor too sluggishly, arriving at a vast square, which had numerous beast-fighting tforms built within¡ªthese were typically used by the Spirit Beast Sect for Beast Taming battles, but today they had all been cleared out.


    The stands were filled with Cultivators.


    Above the stands were towering Observation Pavilions.


    The stands were for all Spirit Beast Sect disciples and other Sect Cultivators at the Foundation Establishment stage to watch, while the pavilions were prepared for those from the Purple Mansion.


    Lin Shiming, too, presented the token Xie An had helped him apply for in advance, registering with the deacon of the Spirit Beast Sect.


    This time, the number of Foundation Establishment Cultivators participating in the Jiuye Grand Competition was thirty-two, which wasn''t many. But it is understood that thepetition requires Foundation Establishment Cultivators under the age of sixty. To stand out, one should at least be in the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage before sixty.


    Breaking through to Foundation Establishment isn''t like Qi Cultivation, where one might achieve a breakthrough every few years. If someonecks sufficient talent, it could take them thirty to forty years to break through to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Just like Lin Shiming''s father, Lin Houyuan, who''s been in Foundation Establishment for nearly twenty years but has yet to condense his True Yuan.


    Therefore, even for Sect Cultivators with great talent, advancing to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage before the age of sixty is notmon.


    Among them, those who were confident in themselves and willing to fight for a chance were even fewer. Having thirty-two participants this year was due to the current tumultuous wars, as well as the frequent emergence of Purple Mansion candidates during thest Dao Enlightenment tform event.


    Of course, the thirty-two who participated this year were all extremely strong. Among them, only Lin Shiming represented the Foundation Establishment families, while there were only five from Purple Mansion families. The remaining 26 were all Sect Cultivators.


    Lin Shiming stood in the stands, also observing the other Cultivators. Among them, only three were held in the highest esteem, surrounded by adoring crowds: Chen Yuan from the Spirit Beast Sect, Xu Hao from the Spirit Talisman Sect, and Ye Changyuan from the Ye Family.


    Of the three, Chen Yuan imposed the greatest pressure on Lin Shiming, as he also relied on a Golden Winged Mantis and a Red-haired Demon Monkey, and thetter was presumably more abundant and powerful with Spirit Beasts.


    Next was Ye Changyuan, whose Cultivators from the Ye Family were extremely renowned within the Qingxuan Sect, and he was one of the best among them.


    "Alright, wee everyone to Jiuye Mountain of the Spirit Beast Sect. I am San Ye, the disciple of True Person Baishan!" A Cultivator wearing a San Ye Taoist robe stepped upon the high tform.


    The words of San Ye Hermit directed the attentive gazes of all Cultivators in the square to him.


    "The Jiuye Grand Assembly will still be managed by me this time. Anyone who is above Foundation Establishment and not older than sixty may participate. In the end, two individuals will be given the chance to attain Dao Enlightenment.


    Our Sect will not charge a fee, but those who sessfully reach enlightenment must do a feasible task for the Spirit Beast Sect and participate in defending against the Demon Sect in Jiuye City for at least three years¡­" San Ye Hermit continued his introduction.


    Since Xie An had briefed him beforehand, Lin Shiming was not unfamiliar with these details. As for resisting the Demon Sect, he was already obliged to do so because of his ties to the Qingxuan Sect.


    "Alright, let''s not waste time with idle talk, let''s just draw lots and start!" San Ye Hermit took the tags representing the participants'' names from the Deacon, and then, with a great wave of his hand,


    the tags paired up two by two in the air, and then headed towards the various empty beast-fighting tforms.


    These tforms were the battle stages that the Spirit Beast Sect disciples usually used for spellcasting and beast taming, each fortified with a formation.


    On the sixteen beast-fighting tforms, thirty-two names appeared.


    Lin Shiming was on the fifth tform, and his opponent was a peak Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator from the Spirit Talisman Sect.


    After Lin Shiming took his ce on the stage, a Deacon from the Spirit Beast Sect also stepped forward to act as the referee.


    At his gesture, the two of them began their battle.


    The young cultivator opposite took out three Spirit Talismans, fiercely pressing them downward¡ªone was a Third Rank Superior Grade Earth Shield Talisman, the second a Third Rank Superior Grade Wood Binding Technique, and third, a Third Rank Superior Grade Golden Sword Technique.


    The moment the young cultivator released the talismans, he was filled with pride; with these three talismans, even a cultivator in theter stage of Foundation Establishment could fight.


    Let alone facing a cultivator from a small family.


    What''s more, Lin Shiming hadn''t even made a move yet!


    Vines began to snake towards Lin Shiming through the air, followed swiftly by the bright sh of a Golden Sword chopping down. In his confidence, the young cultivator took out a superior-grade Flying Sword and shed it towards Lin Shiming.


    However, at that moment, Lin Shiming finally took action. His first move was the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation; the nine Formation Swords transformed into a screen of swords thatpletely sliced through the vines, setting up the Sword Array instantly blocking the Golden Sword Talisman.


    The young cultivator was instantly horrified, but he quickly sneered.


    With a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivation level, controlling nine Formation Swords was already nearly his limit, which left him with no opportunity to defend.


    The sneer barely left his face when he slightly lifted his hand and the luxurious Spirit Talismans unique to the Spirit Talisman Sect emerged one by one¡ªa full ten of them, all Third Rank Superior Grade.


    Fire Serpent Technique, Golden Sword Technique, Wood Binding Technique, and Ice Arrow Technique attacked Lin Shiming from all four directions, while beneath the ground countless Earth Spikes surged up.


    In an instant, Spirit Light burst forth, and various spells filled the entire beast-fighting tform, engulfing Lin Shiming.


    A crowd of spectating cultivators sighed repeatedly, especially those from Foundation Establishment families, who openly expressed pity.


    Lin Shiming''s control of the Sword Array was certainly elegant, but it had significant drawbacks. With his Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivation level, how could he maintain control, considering sword cultivators require swift and thunderous attacks?


    To have the initiative taken by a Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator was one thing, but not to deploy a Spirit Shield was quite another!


    However, to everyone''s surprise, in front of Lin Shiming a huge shield suddenly appeared, its surging starlight blocking all the spells.


    And the Sword Array had nearly severed all the vines, now heading towards the Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Impossible!" The Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator shouted in shock, his eyes filled with disbelief.


    Lin Shiming was not only controlling the Formation Swords with spare effort but was also wielding a Supreme Grade Spirit Shield. To him, this was absolutely fanciful.


    This would at least require the Divine Sense of ate-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, yet Lin Shiming''s cultivation level was only middle-stage Foundation Establishment.

 Chapter 200 Battle Against Xu Hao

    The cultivators from the Spirit Talisman Sect were shocked, but they quickly took out three spirit talismans, which they straightaway assembled into a small-sized shield talisman formation foryered defense, and then they took out a golden pagoda.


    However, Lin Shiming''s Formation Sword had already made a cleaving motion, merging nine swords into one, emitting a dazzling light. In a blink of an eye, it hadpletely shattered the Spirit Shield.


    Lastly, it stopped right in front of the Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator.


    "Thank you for the match," Lin Shiming retracted his Flying Sword, and at the same time, numerous ck dots also stuck to the Formation Sword as it flew back.


    "Daoist Lin is indeed formidable!" The Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator was openly convinced at this moment.


    Lin Shiming was able to control a Supreme Grade Spirit Shield and possessed such a powerful Formation Sword; it was possible for him to rank within the top ten in this tournament.


    "tform five, Lin Shiming wins!" The judge dered the victor.


    From the moment Lin Shiming was besieged by spirit talismans, everyone concluded that he was done for, to the present moment of his victory, only a short span of three breaths had passed. The cultivators hadn''t even had time to react yet.


    All of them were in disbelief but finally began to take Lin Shiming seriously.


    "He is Lin Shiming of the Lin Family, who once killed twenty demon cultivators of the same rank in one breath at Heavenly River City!" Suddenly, someone from the audience spoke up.


    And the crowd immediately recalled the fact.


    "Wasn''t he at the Foundation Establishment Early Stage? Howe he''s now at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage?"


    "No wonder he canmand so many Superior Grade flying swords and a Supreme Grade Spirit Shield! With such strength, he can definitely rank in the top ten!"


    "More than top ten, sirs, Daoist Lin is a Wood Cultivator, and his Vine Maniption Technique is extremely mystical. If you all observed carefully when he retracted the Formation Sword, arge number of seeds were also taken back!"


    Another person eximed in shock, while the cultivator from the Spirit Talisman Sect felt a surge of relief upon hearing this, d that Lin Shiming had not injured him, knowing that all cultivators must be ready to battle with those from the Heavenly Demon Sect at any moment.


    Lin Shiming, hearing the cheers from the crowd, wasn''t the slightest bit concerned but thought that the Wood Binding Technique''s spirit talisman was somewhat mysterious; otherwise, he could have defeated the Spirit Talisman Sect cultivator at the first opportunity.


    Now, not only was his True Yuan and Divine Sense powerful, his physical body strong, but even his magic artifacts were Supreme Grade, not showing the slightest weakness even againstte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    His Divine Sense swept over the area and found that Chen Yuan, Xu Hao, and Ye Changyuan had all finished their fights, and Xu Hao had even sted his opponent, injuring him. His Supreme Grade spirit talisman was mighty, and the opposing cultivator couldn''t even withstand a single round.


    This made Lin Shiming reconsider his previous underestimation of Xu Hao from the Spirit Talisman Sect.


    The second round also arrived quickly, and Lin Shiming''s opponent was a cultivator from the Purple Mansion Family, who was at thete Foundation Establishment stage, but it was a recent breakthrough, and his cultivation level was clearly not yet stable.


    Under the coordination of Lin Shiming''s Formation Sword and Star Wood Shield, along with the Binding by the Green Snake Vine, the opponent quickly admitted defeat.


    And thus, he broke into the top eight.


    Provoking another round of exims from the Observation Pavilion, for not only was Lin Shiming a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, but he also came from a family of Foundation Establishment lineage.


    After waiting for most of the day, the top eight were finally determined, and the drawing of lots began once again.


    Eight names flew out from the hand of San Ye Hermit, eventuallynding on four beast tforms.


    As the numbers settled, Lin Shiming took the opportunity to look around and suddenly made fierce eye contact with Xu Hao.


    tform three, it was Lin Shiming facing off against Xu Hao.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    He had matched against one of the three most popr cultivators of this tournament.


    The scene was also a stir, especially among the cultivators who favored Lin Shiming. Even Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan began to frown.


    Xu Hao''s strength had been evident in the previous two matches. Not only did Xu Hao possess a multitude of supreme-grade third-rank Spirit Talismans, but his own strength was by no means weak. His magic artifacts were even more formidable,prising two supreme-grade items, a Purple Light Sword and a Soul Summoning Bell.


    With thebination of these assets, there were hardly any cultivators who could withstand his attacks for more than three moves.


    Lin Shiming wasn''t particrly daunted by these; he had the Rolling Divine te, eighty-one superior-grade Formation Swords, and the Zi Sword. Including the Yui Sword, which he couldn''t use, he already possessed four supreme-grade magical artifacts.


    But he was equally aware that Xu Hao had been almost crushing his opponents, never utilizing his full strength. How many supreme-grade Spirit Talismans he had and how many tricks he had hidden remained unknown.


    Particrly if Xu Hao had a vast number of supreme-grade Spirit Talismans, even Lin Shiming would have to dodge their sharp edges.


    And as the quarterfinals were about to begin, from Jiuye Mountain, numerous Purple Mansion cultivators descended one after another into the Observation Pavilion, including the Zi Xuan Hermit.


    Thetter also nodded towards Lin Shiming.


    After offering a respectful bow, Lin Shiming also stepped onto the stage:


    "You are a cultivator in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, so you take the first move!" Xu Hao stood with his hands behind his back, his posture brimming with pride.


    Lin Shiming''s divine sense was not in the least bit inferior to Xu Hao''s. Seeing his opponent stand with arms behind his back and making some slight movements, Lin Shiming, who had been on guard against Xu Hao, raised his hand andunched eighteen Formation Swords, arranging them into two small sword arrays that swept towards Xu Hao.


    Under the shing spirit light, the sword radiance of the two small arrays extended three zhang in length, reaching their target in an instant.


    Suddenly, Xu Hao thrust his hands, which had been behind his back, forward, and three Spirit Talismans unfolded in an instant. A huge Golden Shield emerged in front of the two sword arrays, emitting dazzling light and a piercing screech.


    This was evidently a supreme-grade Gold-element Defense Talisman, the Golden Shield Talisman, and it was especially effective against Flying Swords.


    Xu Hao''s mouth curled up slightly as changes urred behind him again. The surrounding spiritual energy began to condense into spirit patterns, rapidly forming a Yellow Sand Formation that enveloped Lin Shiming.


    As yellow sand cascaded from the sky, Lin Shiming seemed as if he were in a desert.


    "The Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation, it is aimed at Lin Shiming''s Wood Cultivator identity!" The onlookers began to exim in surprise¡ªthey had not anticipated Xu Hao would y such a card right at the start. The Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation would solidify the earth in the vicinity, greatly weakening Wood Binding Techniques.


    And it also exerted suppression on Lin Shiming''s Formation Swords.


    The pervasive yellow sand transformed into numerous sand giants that swung their sandy fists at Lin Shiming.


    Meanwhile, Xu Hao''s figure disappeared into the swirling sandstorm, apanied by one superior-grade Spirit Talisman after another crashing towards Lin Shiming as if they cost him nothing.


    Lin Shiming''s brow furrowed as he felt that his catalysis of Purple Gold Vine was greatly discounted. Even though he still managed to summon it, the purple vines were visibly smaller than before, and their speed was also much slower.


    Purple Gold Vines surged out, barely managing to entangle the slow-moving sand giants, but they broke free with a little effort.


    The weaker Green Snake Vines were now summoned like green snakes.


    Lin Shiming had no choice but to take out the Rolling Divine te. As it descended, one sand giant after another was crushed.


    The Star Wood Shield and the two sets of Formation Swords managed to block each and every spell that came their way.


    "No, he''s using a magical treasure!" Just then, the spectators outside the formation noticed that Xu Hao had taken out a talisman inscribed with the Mountain Opening Seal, and he was activating it.


    Although this talisman was not a Fifth Rank magical treasure, it was certainly a supreme existence among Fourth Rank magical treasures. Upon its activation, an enormous golden stamp began to materialize in the void and took on an ever more solid form!

 Chapter 201 The Spiritual Ant Shows Off Its Power

    In the midst of the Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation, Lin Shiming still hadn''t retracted many of his seeds, and at this moment, many of the seeds were being subtly pressured to the point of disintegration by that surge of Spirit Might.


    His brows furrowed even more deeply as he raised his hand, casting another incrediblyplicated Spirit Art. The Supreme Grade Spirit Shield, the Star Wood Shield, materialized in itsrgest form.


    It was a full thirty feet in diameter, blocking the Sand Giant behind him.


    In front of him, sets of Formation Swords faced off against another Sand Giant.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Seeing that three Sand Giants had been held off, Lin Shiming didn''t stop there; the True Yuan from his auxiliary Spirit tform continuously surged forth, and the Rolling Divine te also activated fiercely, bing the size of a small mountain.


    With the final Spirit Art cast, the Rolling Divine te began to roll frically, its grinding sounds spreading in every direction.


    In front of Xu Hao, a Jade Pendant suddenly appeared¡ª it was a Divine Sense defense Magic Artifact, blocking the attacks of the te.


    However, in the next moment, Lin Shiming once again brought out a Shocking God Drum.


    With the strikes of the drum mallet, ripples formed, heading toward Xu Hao.


    Though the Shocking God Drum was only a Superior Grade Magic Artifact, notparable to the Rolling Divine te, it specialized in Divine Sense attacks, resulting in Xu Hao''s Spirit Shield dimming considerably, and the next moment, with the sound of a Split Spirit de being released.


    The Guardian Spirit Jade Pendant''s Spirit Shield shattered and disappeared in an instant.


    And Xu Hao''s body jerked violently.


    The speed at which he activated his talismans significantly decreased, and the Spirit Talismans in the sky also dimmed.


    No one expected that Lin Shiming would be able to stop Xu Hao''s talisman activation with a Divine Sense sound attack.


    But what was terrifying was that Xu Hao''s Divine Sense was not much weaker than Lin Shiming''s. If it weren''t for the added power of the Shocking God Drum, he probably wouldn''t have been shaken at all.


    He cast the Spirit Art with both hands once again, and his True Yuan wildly surged toward the Spirit Talismans, with the talismans once more shining brightly, negating the impact of the Divine Sense attack.


    "It''s useless, you can''t break my concentration anymore!" Xu Hao said with a coldugh.


    He raised his hand again, the Spirit Art in his hand moving impossibly fast, emanating Spirit Might as the talismans finally approached the final moment.


    At that moment, the officiating deacons had shades of fear on their faces; he was just at the Perfection of Foundation Establishment and couldn''t withstand this attack.


    They hastily summoned the Hermit San Ye, who was also deep in concentration with a frown. Beneath his embroidered robe, his hands were half-formed into a Spirit Art, ready to save Lin Shiming at any moment.


    At this time, Lin Shiming was trapped by the Formation and under attack from the talismans, clearly having lost any chance of victory. Divine Sense attacks couldn''t interrupt him, and given Xu Hao''s reserve of Spirit Talismans, other forms of attack likely had no chance either.


    In their eyes, Lin Shiming merely hadn''t discovered the true power of the talismans and still thought there was an opportunity.


    Of course, deep down Hermit San Ye still favored Lin Shiming more, after all, Xu Hao was somewhat relying on his n''s status in this duel of magic.


    Continue reading on empire


    Lin Xianzhi and Xie An''s hearts had risen to their throats as well, seeing that the talismans were about to fall, Lin Shiming had yet to concede the match.


    But in the next moment, an opening half a person''s height appeared abruptly within the Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation, revealing eighty-one ferocious Spirit Ants with bared fangs.


    Heading straight for Xu Hao.


    "What is this?" Xu Hao was clearly startled; his Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation had given him no feedback on these Spirit Insects.


    A sense of unease crept into Xu Hao''s heart as he couldn''t understand how these Spirit Insects were able to break through his formation. Though confused, his hands did not stop moving, tearing off three prepared Spirit Talismans which immediately transformed into three Supreme Grade Spirit Shields.


    But in the next moment, they were disregarded nearly as nothing by the devouring Spirit Ants, engulfing the Spirit Shields and creating equally sized holes.


    Within his field of vision, a Red-haired Demon Monkey emerged from the hole, raising the Crimson me Rod high and smashing it down hard, sending Xu Hao flying out of the arena.


    The magic talisman also came to an abrupt halt and transformed into a Spirit Talisman, floating gently downward.


    Lin Shiming walked away from the Triple Extreme Yellow Sand Formation, his condition also not great, took out an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone, and absorbed it continuously to recover his True Yuan.


    At this moment, the Foundation Establishment cultivators watching the battle werepletely stunned.


    They hadn''t expected that, at the final moment, it would be Lin Shiming who turned defeat into victory!


    Even those from the Purple Mansion were surprised and disbelieving.


    Especially the Purple Mansion cultivators from the Spirit Talisman Sect, they even scanned Lin Shiming''s Devouring Spirit Ant multiple times with their Divine Sense, suspecting that if they found anything else, they might have to interrogate him thoroughly.


    "That is a Devouring Spirit Ant!" It was the Hermit San Ye who spoke up first.


    Clearly, at this moment, the Devouring Spirit Ant''s tiny stardust-like spots also made them somewhat puzzled.


    "Indeed, Hermit," Lin Shiming nodded at this point, knowing very well that his Devouring Spirit Ant was somewhat different.


    As the name of the Devouring Spirit Ant was mentioned, all the people began to exim once again.


    "Changyuan, be careful of this Lin Shiming, he had this Devouring Spirit Ant at Yunjing Mountainst time!" At this moment, on the observation tform, Ye Mingqiu, who had once defended Yunjing Mountain with Lin Shiming, reminded Ye Changyuan.


    "He had in three Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivators while he was at the Early Stage of Foundation Establishment!" Ye Mingqiu''s eyes were full of wariness, but of course, there was another thing he didn''t say.


    At the time, Lu Changming and Lin Shiming were at odds, and the ce where Lu Changming died had been burned clean by mes, leaving no trace.


    The mes seemed somewhat simr to the fire conjured by the Red-haired Demon Monkey in front of them...


    Thinking of this, Ye Mingqiu''s wariness towards Lin Shiming grew even stronger, the Foundation Establishment Early Stage Lin Shiming had killed the Foundation Establishment Perfection Lu Changming!


    "If you encounter him, remember to be extra careful!" Ye Mingqiu continued to caution Ye Changyuan.


    "Yes, Uncle Nine!" It was the first time Ye Changyuan saw his Uncle Nine so wary of a person, but of course, he believed it.


    Xu Hao was considered one of his biggest rivals, yet he had now been defeated by Lin Shiming.


    The crucial point was that if he were in Lin Shiming''s ce, he wasn''t sure he could have broken Xu Hao''s Yellow Sand Formation and magic talisman.


    As the Hermit San Ye announced Lin Shiming''s victory, securing him a spot in the top four.


    The onlooking cultivators sighed repeatedly, having previously thought that Lin Shiming''s advancement to the top eight was already a miracle, only to find now that he was just a step away from the top two.


    On the other hand, Xu Hao from the Spirit Talisman Sect, whom countless people favored, was knocked out earlier than expected.


    This made the situation once again uncertain. It had previously been a contest between Xu Hao, Chen Yuan, and Ye Changyuan for two spots, and now it became apetition among Lin Shiming, Chen Yuan, and Ye Changyuan for the final spot.


    Having won, Lin Shiming also returned to the observation tform to rest and recover his True Yuan.


    Then came the other matches.


    As expected, Ye Changyuan, Chen Yuan, and another cultivator from the Spirit Beast Sect, Huang Daoxuan, secured the remaining three spots.


    A new random draw urred, and to Lin Shiming''s surprise, he once again drew Chen Yuan as his opponent, the most difficult one of all.


    As the strongest cultivator sent out by the Spirit Beast Sect, Chen Yuan was certainly formidable, and at this moment, Lin Shiming also felt immense pressure.


    But an opportunity for Dao Enlightenment was just before him, and he wouldn''t give up, especially since he still had the Poisonous Dragon Vine, the Zi Sword, and the Golden Winged Mantis at his disposal ¡ª he believed he wouldn''t lose by much.

 Chapter 202 - Another Hint Comes Out

    The final four did not immediately begin their duel; not only Lin Shiming, but also Chen Yuan had expended a considerable amount of True Yuan in their respective battles against their opponents.


    Both needed to recover, yet they were not significantly injured, so the final showdown was set for the following day.


    Moreover, during the final showdown, the other seven cultivators who were enlightened would also make an appearance.


    Only the top two finalists would rush to the Dao Enlightenment stage.


    Time was of the essence.


    Lin Shiming rested for a day, during which Lin Houyuan and Xie An came one after another to encourage him, and surprisingly, Zi Xuan Hermit also paid him another visit to offer his regards.


    In the end, he even prepared another Supreme Grade Third Rank Defense Talisman for him.


    Lin Shiming was extremely grateful and epted it.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    After a night of recovery, Lin Shiming finally returned to his peak condition.


    Returning to the beast-fighting arena the next day, the number of spectators had increased even further.


    Of course, apart from watching the final battle of the four, many cultivators also came to see the monks who were exempt from the preliminaries and directly qualified for Enlightenment.


    These cultivators were the truly gifted of the Three Sects of the Zhao Kingdom, who would almost certainly have ess to Purple Mansion Jade Liquid in the future and could even be regarded as half a True Person of the Purple Mansion.


    Among the seven exempted, three were from Spirit Beast Sect, and both Qingxuan Sect and Spirit Talisman Sect had two each.


    However, this time the cultivators from Spirit Talisman Sect were not looking pleased. Usually, Spirit Talisman Sect would have at least one participant in the top four, but this time, they hadn''t anticipated Xu Hao being kicked out of thepetition early by Lin Shiming, leaving them merely as spectators.


    Under the promation of San Ye Hermit, Lin Shiming and Chen Yuan each took their ces on the beast-fighting tform.


    Chen Yuan was still wearing his Spirit Beast Sect beast-embroidered robe, and as he entered the arena, he immediately released four strange beasts, two of which werete Third Rank Spirit Beasts and two were mid Third Rank Spirit Beasts.


    Lin Shiming watched with some envy; he had the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey and naturally understood how precious it was to have four Demonic Beasts at this level, not to mention the immense resources required for their upkeep.


    Chen Yuan''s selection of Spirit Beasts was also meticulous, with twote Third Rank Spirit Beasts¡ªa Golden Feathered Sculpture and a Thunder Rhinoceros¡ªplus two mid Third Rank Howling Moon Wolves.


    He had both agility and defensive beasts, and each beast exuded an extraordinary demeanor, clearly far from ordinary Spirit Beasts.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also released the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis.


    This time, he had no intention of ambushing; the Golden Winged Mantis''s ambush could often result in death or severe injury and was not suited for stealth attacks with the Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    Instead, it was better used to contain the Golden Feathered Sculpture.


    "A mutated Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis?" Chen Yuan did not expect Lin Shiming to also be half a Beast Tamer, possessing the Six-Winged Heavenly Mantis ranked eighty-nine in the Heaven-Earth List.


    "Daoist Lin, you''re not being very magnanimous!" But the next moment, Chen Yuan saw Lin Shiming silently imbuing a Spirit nt seed with energy and couldn''t help butugh coldly and speak out.


    Following that, his Golden Feathered Sculpture took the lead in charging out, with the Howling Moon Wolves nking from both sides, while the Thunder Rhinoceros stayed behind to protect Chen Yuan.


    "Go!" Lin Shiming did not respond; seeing that Chen Yuan had made the first move, he alsomanded his two beasts to rush out one after the other.


    As for the issue of imbuing energy into seeds, he had no psychological burden whatsoever; Chen Yuan had more Spirit Beasts and a higher Cultivation Level, and certainly no fewer Magical Treasures than him.


    Furthermore, Chen Yuan''s Divine Sense was definitely stronger than his own; for a cultivator of Spirit Beast Sect, he did not believe his opponentcked methods to train their Divine Sense, and therefore dared not hold anything back.


    The Golden Winged Mantis flew out at the same time as the Red-haired Demon Monkey also charged out roaring.


    The Golden Winged Mantis faced the Golden Feathered Sculpture, while the Red-haired Demon Monkey smashed towards the two Howling Moon Wolves.


    To everyone''s surprise, the speed of the Golden Winged Mantis was not even slightly inferior to that of the Golden Feathered Sculpture. Furthermore, it had two incredibly sharp scythe-like limbs, which cut through the air, creating streaks of golden light.


    The Golden Feathered Sculpture was, in fact, somewhat restrained, constantly angered and screeching, only daring to pull away instead of lunging forward to w at the Golden Winged Mantis.


    It was the Red-haired Demon Monkey that faced considerable pressure against the two wolf kings; wielding the Crimson me Rod, it struck the Howling Moon Wolves from time to time, while also continuously throwing the Profound Spirit Mountain.


    However, the two Howling Moon Wolves dodged the attacks, and only by igniting the Crimson me Rod with Strange Fire was it able to prevent the situation from bing too dire, though it was clearly suppressed by the two wolves.


    Then there was the Thunder Rhinoceros, its sole horn shing fiercely. Subsequently, bolts of lightning fell from the sky towards Lin Shiming.


    The Star Wood Shield was immediately deployed, the lightning striking the shield and scattering the starlight, while creating wafts of blue smoke.


    At the same time, Lin Shiming''s Formation Swords also shed through the air, this time releasing as many as four smaller Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formations!


    At this moment, many cultivators from Qingxuan Sect were dumbfounded. They were naturally familiar with the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation, as many cultivators practiced it. However, nobody''s formation was capable of exceeding their own rank in strength, nor did they have as many formations as Lin Shiming did.


    Even the distant Zi Xuan Hermit shed a look of surprise; seeing this, Lin Shiming felt somewhat helpless.


    He couldn''t avoid failing at concealing his prowess any longer, and at this point, all he could hope for was that Zi Xuan Hermit wouldn''t pursue him for previously hiding his capabilities.


    As soon as the four Sword Arrays were deployed, Chen Yuan also took out five copper ring Magic Artifacts.


    Each copper ring was engraved with strange beast patterns. As the five copper rings shot out, they transformed into five True Spirit beasts, lunging towards Lin Shiming.


    Clearly, these copper rings were a set of Supreme Grade Magical Treasures, and the power of the Spirit Might was greatly enhanced when they were used together.


    Lin Shiming''s four Sword Formations were struggling, and so he had to bring out the Zi Sword again.


    The Zi Sword soared upon facing the wind, like a purple sun, its Sword Qi unparalleled and majestic. Your journey continues on empire


    The spirit might of the Supreme Grade magic sword was also driven to its peak, once again putting the copper rings on the defensive.


    Then his other hand fiercely performed hand seals, and the seeds that had been sprinkled at some unknown time began to catalyze instantly. Countless Purple Gold Vines surged forth, binding the two Howling Moon Wolves.


    In that moment, Chen Yuan certainly didn''t expect Lin Shiming to make a move on the two Howling Moon Wolves, and not a single one escaped. The Red-haired Demon Monkey instantly became ferocious, its Crimson me Rod instantaneously covered with Strange Fire. Having been suppressed the entire time, it was already seething with rage.


    The next moment, Chen Yuan abruptly leaped up,nding on the Thunder Rhinoceros, only to see countless golden spirit spears emerge from his position, overwhelming his location in an instant.


    Meanwhile, a Spirit Shield appeared again on the surface of the Thunder Rhinoceros, and at the same time, Chen Yuan also tore off a Defense Talisman, forming a blue water shield, blocking the golden spirit spears.


    All these attacks happened in a sh, one after another, leaving Chen Yuan somewhat overwhelmed.


    Chen Yuan frowned lightly, and in the next moment, he took out a set of twelve Silver Needles. This set of Silver Needles didn''t conceal any attacks; he was unable to hide them, being suppressed at every turn. Now he had to break the stalemate.


    Most importantly, he felt that Lin Shiming''s hand was infusing spirit power into the seeds again. As the infusionsted longer this time, it also meant that their power would be even greater.


    The seeds were of the Poisonous Dragon Vine.


    But the next moment, Lin Shiming''s system alert rang out abruptly:


    "Please be alert to the sneak attack from the demonic sect''s cultivators after securing victory!!!"

 Chapter 203 Admit Defeat

    At this moment, Lin Shiming was clearly stunned; the system notification was actually alerting him to a sneak attack by the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    Yet, this was Jiuye City, home of the nine leaves of Bai Shan True Person''s Jiuye Mountain, and also the second major base of the Spirit Beast Sect. A sneak attack by the Heavenly Demon Sect here was unimaginable.


    If anyone else had told him this, he would never have believed it.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    But now it was the system, the system''s alert, which had never been wrong to date.


    Lin Shiming didn''t dare to gamble; rather than perishing here, he preferred not to need the opportunity for Dao Enlightenment.


    He had the system''s alert, which was far more powerful than Dao Enlightenment. There was no need to take risks for enlightenment, and moreover, the feeling of exposing all his abilities made him extremely anxious.


    Lin Shiming took a deep breath; he looked around with his Divine Sense, still detecting nothing unusual. However, precisely because of this, he felt the situation was all the more terrifying.


    He did not know whether the Purple Mansion Hermits were aware of it, nor did he know if the Golden Core True Persons were aware.


    But at this moment, it was undoubtedly an uneptable risk for him, even with the watchful eyes of a Purple Mansion Hermit.


    Moreover, from another perspective, his actions this time were overly high-profile. As an ordinary Foundation Establishment family cultivator fighting against ater stage in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, he might be the target of many cultivators'' envy, not to mention the treasures on him, which might even be coveted by a Purple Mansion cultivator.


    In his hesitation, a full dozen Silver Needles shot towards him.


    The Silver Needles were incredibly fast and carried the terrifying force of Ice Soul. Lin Shiming''s Purple Gold Vine tried to block them but was frozen by the Ice Soul, severely checking its growth.


    The twelve Silver Needles struck the Star Wood Shield, which, already weakened by bombardment from the Thunder Rhinoceros, started to dim immediately.


    Another bolt of lightning struck down, sting the Star Wood Shield apart, and at the same time, Lin Shiming violently spat out a mouthful of blood. The Spirit Shield was seriously damaged and would certainly require a Third-Rank Artifact Refiner for repairs afterwards.


    The showdown in the sky of the four Sword Arrays was on the verge of copsing. In the next moment, as the copper rings violently tumbled, the Sword Arrays disintegrated with a bang, reverting into individually flying Formation Swords.


    As a result, the twelve Spirit Needles and five copper rings charged towards Lin Shiming like there was no one to stop them.


    Lin Shiming tore off four Spirit Talismans, two of them Supreme Grade Defense Talismans, and two Superior Grade.


    However, against Chen Yuan''s two major moves, the four Spirit Shields were shattered one after another. In the next moment, Lin Shiming''s body twisted dramatically; the twelve Spirit Needles originally aimed at his heart just barely missed and eventually pierced through his left arm, causing blood to flow profusely!


    "True Yuan insufficient, I admit defeat!" Lin Shiming, his face filled with reluctance, clenched his fist and had to concede. Then he knelt on the ground, breathing heavily.


    A burnt-out Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone appeared in his hand, and his remaining right arm furiously struck the ground.


    He lost!


    Lin Shiming was so close, yet in the end, he still lost.


    Many were extremely disappointed; just a moment ago, Lin Shiming seemed to have gained the upper hand. That series of attacks were such that manyte-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators present on the field were not confident they could have withstood them.


    Yet unexpectedly, Chen Yuan not only noticed Lin Shiming''s sneak attack but also expertly controlled two sets of Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, one set of Supreme Grade copper rings and another set of Supreme Grade Ice Soul Needles.


    Together with the bombardment of thunder from the Thunder Rhinoceros, these drained all of Lin Shiming''s True Yuan, granting Chen Yuan the victory.


    Lin Xianzhi felt somewhat disheartened at this moment as well. It was so close; if Lin Shiming had also been in thete stage of Foundation Establishment, he would not have lost.


    But s, the Lin Family was ultimately just a Foundation Establishment family, one without the fate of receiving enlightenment.


    While contemting, Xie An also sighed, joining Lin Houyuan to help support Lin Shiming and take him back.


    "Shiming, it''s okay, just an unfavorable draw of lots!"


    "You''re still young. There''s always next time!"


    Both of themforted Lin Shiming. After all, he was only forty-two years old, quite young indeed, and could even participate in the next Jiuye Conference.


    Moved by their kindness, Lin Shiming also transmitted his voice to them,


    "Uncle Seven, my mantis has sent me a very dangerous signal. We should stay a bit further back!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xianzhi''s expression turned grave. He knew well that Lin Shiming''s mantis had the ability to sense danger¡ªhe had realized this during several previous instances.


    After saying a quick word to Xie An, the two of them moved towards the back of the spectator stands, striving to stay near the periphery of the beast-fighting arena.


    Next, it was Ye Changyuan''s turn to battle against another disciple from the Spirit Beast Sect, Huang Daoxuan. The Spirit Beast Sect, having secured a spot, were all beaming with joy, engaging in conversations, and in front of the Spirit Talisman Sect and Qingxuan Sect, they indeed disyed the magnanimity of a host, full of grace and ease.


    As Lin Shiming settled in the spectator stands, he couldn''t help but look around; first, he nced at Zi Xuan Hermit, but noticing thetter was observing Ye Changyuan, he felt at ease.


    Zi Xuan Hermit soon noticed Lin Shiming''s gaze and turned his head, while Lin Shiming looked down, his face flushed with embarrassment.


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    Of course, deep inside, he was hugely relieved at that moment.


    Even though he missed the chance for Dao enlightenment, at least he was now able to withdraw from the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment Conference.


    He couldn''t help but look at the others, but he didn''t discover anything unusual. Instead, he noticed that Chen Yuan was constantly sizing him up.


    Clearly, he couldn''t understand why Lin Shiming clearly catalyzed a very potent seed, yet in the end, his True Yuan was depleted, and his efforts fell short.


    Lin Shiming didn''t pay too much attention to Chen Yuan''s curiosity, and instead, continued to watch the fight between Ye Changyuan and Huang Daoxuan.


    Ye Changyuan was a sword cultivator, brimming with Sword Intent. Even the Sword Light Transformation Realm of his Uncle Seven, Lin Xianzhi, wasn''t far off. The magic artifact in his hand was obviously a supreme grade magic sword, powerful and extraordinary, not much inferior to his Zi Sword.


    His sword cultivation skills caused his own Formation Sword technique to stir slightly. The seed of the Sword Dao within his heart seemed to be stimted, itching for a breakthrough in battle.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming continued to suppress his True Yuan, until he finally felt better, and continued to survey the situation.


    However, to everyone''s surprise, Huang Daoxuan was actually a Foundation Establishment Perfection body cultivator. The three spirit beasts he summoned turned out to be a mere distraction, far less powerful than his body cultivation strength.


    A Foundation Establishment Perfect body cultivator under sixty was an extremely rare existence among the Three Sects of the Zhao Kingdom. At that moment, not only the other sects, even the Spirit Beast Sect itself, was filled with doubts.


    In the end, Ye Changyuan was just one move short, and was sent flying off the beast-fighting stage with one punch by Huang Daoxuan, sustaining severe injuries. If not for the timely intervention of San Ye Hermit, who deflected part of the power at the critical moment, Ye Changyuan would have been either dead or gravely injured.


    With that, Huang Daoxuan and Chen Yuan secured the remaining two spots on the Jiuye Dao Enlightenment Stage, giving the Spirit Beast Sect a total of five ces.


    The oue of the Jiuye Conference was beyond everyone''s expectations.


    The cultivators from the Qingxuan Sect and the Spirit Talisman Sect each had unpleased expressions, but fortunately, each sect still had two spots.


    With the conference concluded, the nine individuals who ultimately won the Dao enlightenment spots walked together onto the high tform, where San Ye Hermit presented the enlightenment orders.


    Only by having the enlightenment orders, refined by True Person Bai Shanmu, could one remain on the Dao Enlightenment Stage unharmed by the Bai Shanmu spirits.


    However, at this moment, Huang Daoxuan, who had been looking down, suddenly turned his gaze towards Chen Yuan beside him.

 Chapter 204 The Descent of the Demon Sect

    "What are you doing!" San Ye Hermit suddenly bellowed in anger, but by then it was already toote.


    As a Body Cultivator at the very peak of Foundation Establishment, facing Chen Yuan who was within arm''s reach, he almost casually reached out, and his hand had already pierced through Chen Yuan''s chest.


    In thetter''s incredulous gaze, he violently withdrew his hand.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    He then collected it as spoils of war, cing it into his Storage Bag.


    "How dare you!" San Ye Hermit flew into a rage!


    However, just as he was about to take action, the three referees beside him, for some reason, suddenly began to emit ck smoke from their bodies.


    The next moment, Spirit Might was released, and three Purple Mansion palms ferociously attacked San Ye Hermit.


    After killing Chen Yuan, Huang Daoxuan kept up his relentless pursuit, targeting the remaining seven cultivators who were seeking Dao Enlightenment. His body, with a crisp sound, seemed as if a restraint had been lifted, and then the cultivation level of a Purple Mansion Body Cultivator exuded, instantly filling the other seven with tremendous dread.


    They hurriedly took out their precious Spirit Talismans, with one of them from Spirit Talisman Sect bringing out a set of ten supreme-grade, third-rank Spirit Talismans.


    Yet, before the demonic ws of the Purple Mansion Body Cultivator, they were as fragile as bubbles.


    Two cultivators from Spirit Talisman Sect perished on the spot, while the cultivator from Qingxuan Sect took out a Golden Cauldron.


    The demonic w clutched the Golden Cauldron, feeling only a terrifying bang, the demonic w was repelled, and the two from Qingxuan Sect quickly retreated, terrified.


    "Magical treasure!" ''Huang Daoxuan'' had a somewhat sinister look in his eyes, having not expected the two from Qingxuan Sect to directly bring out a magical treasure.


    Although Foundation Establishment cultivators cannot use magical treasures, it doesn''t interfere with the toughness of a magical treasure.


    Huang Daoxuan, therefore, turned to grab at the three cultivators from Spirit Beast Sect.


    Meanwhile, up in the distant Observation Pavilion, it was only now that the Purple Mansion cultivators reacted, rushing forth en masse towards the four Purple Mansion cultivators in the arena.


    And in the Foundation Establishment stands, several cultivators at the front, just like the referee deacons earlier, began to emit ck smoke, and a few even produced three coffins, from which emerged three Purple Mansion Demon Cultivators from Corpse Refining Sect.


    In a moment, ten Purple Mansion cultivators from Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect gathered,unching their attack on the Purple Mansion cultivators in the Observation Pavilion.


    "You are not Huang Daoxuan, you are Thousand Demons Hermit!" San Ye Hermit, now fighting against three others by himself, while not falling behind, also found no opportunity for breakthrough. Seeing that out of nine individuals seeking Dao Enlightenment, only five remained, he felt an agonizing pain and could only bellow in hope that Thousand Demons Hermit might spare the few remaining ones.


    Especially the three from Spirit Beast Sect, among whom there was a Thunder Spirit Root Cultivator.


    As expected, Lei Daoyun, the Thunder Spirit Root Cultivator, suddenly activated a thunderous secret technique, forming a cage of lightning.


    The attacknded on Thousand Demons Hermit, causing a noticeable pause in his motion.


    The restraint of lightning on Demon Cultivators is indeed substantial, especially since this Thunder Spirit Root Cultivator had also cultivated a secret technique.


    But Thousand Demons Hermit was not an ordinary Purple Mansion cultivator; filled with raging fury, he charged at Lei Daoyun.


    Lei Daoyun immediately began the Thunder Escape Technique. The Thunder Escape Technique is even more sophisticated than the Five Elements Escape Technique. He left behind a bolt of lightning in his ce, but with just a coldugh, Thousand Demons Hermit turned into a cloud of blood mist, appearing right next to Lei Daoyun in the next moment.


    Boom!


    With his w striking, Lei Daoyun was in on the spot.


    The situation had unfolded too quickly. Only at this moment did the Foundation Establishment cultivators in the stands realize what was happening¡ªin Jiuye City, under attack, not even Lin Shiming and the others could believe it, let alone San Ye Hermit and his group, who clearly didn''t either.


    But the sudden appearance of ten Supreme Grade cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect almost shattered everyone''s beliefs.


    Of the eight Dao Enlightenment seed cultivators, only four remained, and even they were in imminent danger. The arrival of the Heavenly Demon Sect''s forces, who had infiltrated covertly, was clearly aimed at assassinating the seed cultivators of the Three Sects and their future pirs of strength.


    The shock of the scene prompted the Foundation Establishment cultivators to deploy formations, yet in front of the Purple Mansion cultivators, they were like children, utterly insignificant.


    The City Protection Great Formation of Jiuye City slowly began to activate, while from the summit of Jiuye Mountain, four terrifying auras appeared. Four figures rapidly approached with fearsome speed.


    It was the Heavenly Beast True Person, Bai Shanmu True Person, Heavenly Sword True Person, and Thousand Talisman True Person¡ªall four True Persons arriving together.


    The Spirit Might was so terrifying that Lin Shiming and the others could hardly catch their breath, struggling to even take a step.


    Not to mention the Purple Mansion cultivators of the demonic sects on the stage.


    The City Protection Great Formation was about to descend when suddenly, a gate appeared in the sky. A huge withered corpse crawled out from it. The next moment, itnded on the City Protection Great Formation, tearing apart the still-iplete Formation.


    The gate remained open, and after the first withered corpse emerged, a second one followed closely behind.


    "Golden Corpse Hermit, how dare you!" roared Heavenly Beast True Person!


    Such a ndestine attack from the high ranks of the Heavenly Demon Sect left them fuming with rage.


    Four Golden Core cultivators charged towards the two withered corpses.


    Intent on eliminating these two Golden Core stage corpses in advance.


    Meanwhile, unbeknownst to anyone, two Golden Core cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect and two from the Corpse Refining Sect had reached the outskirts of the city. Their terrifying speed brought them, in the blink of an eye, to the waist of Jiuye Mountain.


    The battle of the Golden Core stage cultivators began in a sh, and in an instant, heaven and earth seemed to shatter.


    At this moment, on the other side, where the Purple Mansion cultivators were, the Thousand Demon Hermit once again killed a seed Dao Enlightenment cultivator from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Finally, San Ye Hermit saw an opportunity to break through and intervened, and twote-stage Purple Mansion cultivators immediately shed fiercely.


    Meanwhile, the three originally-besieged Purple Mansion cultivators saw one of their number fall to the enraged sword strike of the elder from the Qingxuan Sect. Had it not been for the other surviving Golden Corpse Hermit who held off the elder''s sword, the situation for the forces of Zhao Kingdom''s Three Sects would have been much easier.


    Lin Shiming, hiding in the back, felt a chill thinking about the oue. Seeing only three seed Dao Enlightenment cultivators remaining, he knew his fate wouldn''t have been any better than the other five should he have seeded.


    Now, he had narrowly escaped a disaster. However, he puzzled over why the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect would attack Jiuye City ndestinely.


    While the rewards were substantial, the risk was equally great; if Jiuye City had five Golden Core cultivators, or an unexpected number of Purple Mansion cultivators, then the cultivators from the demonic sects would have beenmbs to the ughter!


    In the midst of Lin Shiming''s astonishment, from the summit of Jiuye Mountain, a colossal tree burst from the soil and took root in the clouds, its terrifying presence instantly spreading across the whole of Jiuye Mountain.


    "The Bai Shanmu Demon has made his move!" the cultivators from the Spirit Beast Sect rejoiced.


    As everyone watched, countless wooden vines shot out into the sky.


    If Lin Shiming''s vines were ake or a forest, then the branches at this moment were like a surging tsunami. Dense and endless, they rushed towards the Heavenly Demon Sect''s cultivators.


    And these branches carried various True Yuan spells, with sword vines, saber vines, and spear vines, transforming into all kinds of Magic Artifacts.


    The remaining nine Purple Mansion cultivators of the Heavenly Demon Sect quickly fell into a disadvantage under the might of Bai Shanmu Demon, unable to stir any ripples.


    However, just then, Thousand Demon Hermit suddenly threw out five Tokens, which were the Dao Enlightenment Tokens! Stay updated through empire

 Chapter 205 Golden Core Fallen

    As the five Dao Enlightenment orders were issued, the surging vines dissolved as quickly as melting snow, vanishing in the blink of an eye.


    Five vine-free voids were abruptly formed, allowing the demon cultivators on the Thousand Demons Hermit''s side to breathe a sigh of relief.


    These Dao Enlightenment orders were refined by the White Pine True Person: firstly, to prevent the Purple Mansion Wood Demons from harming people, and secondly, to allow the few cultivators who were seeds of Dao Enlightenment to get closer to the White Pine Spirit Tree.


    "How dare you!" San Ye Hermit bellowed in rage, flinging out another clover flying wheel magic artifact from his hand. The clover flying wheel separated into three in mid-air, forming a triad of wheels and shing towards the Thousand Demons Hermit as if enclosing him from all sides.


    "This Jiuye Spirit Tree of yours is really a Dao-absorbing tree!" The Thousand Demons Hermit said disdainfully, then he revealed a fact that threw everyone into panic.


    "So many talents from the Three Sects of Zhao Kingdom, yet why are there more people from your Spirit Beast Sect who haveprehended Minor Divine Abilities? Do the other two sects not suspect anything?" The Thousand Demons Hermitughed uproariously.


    The Purple Mansion cultivators from the Spirit Talisman Sect and Qingxuan Sect all paused, evidently not expecting this assertion about the White Pine Spirit Tree, and the Foundation Establishment cultivators watching from afar were profoundly stirred.


    The Dao Enlightenment Tree was actually a Dao-absorbing tree, one that absorbed the Dao from the talented disciples of various sects and families.


    The cultivators from the Spirit Beast Sect of the Zhao Kingdom, however, all had dramatic changes of expression, especially San Ye Hermit, whose clover flying wheel magic artifact emitted even more intense Spirit Might.


    One transformed into three, three into nine, and nine into myriad!n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    In an instant, the entire void was filled with clover flying wheels; the Thousand Demons Hermit had no ce to hide!


    He could only withstand with his mighty physical body, and it was at that moment, the Thousand Demons Hermit shouted loudly, his body surging upward like an ape, transforming into a gigantic six-armed demon ape.


    In this moment, the Thousand Demons Hermit was like a devil god from purgatory; his entire body was covered in bizarre spirit patterns, and his powerful Spirit Might nearly reached the Perfection of the Purple Mansion.


    Each of the six arms wielded a huge ck stick magic artifact, swirling into six cyclone formations that deflected all the flying wheels.


    The resulting noise was so loud that the onlooking cultivators felt as if they were deafened.


    San Ye Hermit immediately fell into a disadvantage, and it was only Zi Xuan Hermit, who came flying on a sword, that managed to barely stabilize the situation.


    It was at this moment that a dark mass suddenly appeared in the distance from Jiuye City, a ck demonic fog continuously spreading over.


    Flickering within it were the towering Heavenly Demon banners and numerous ferocious corpse creatures.


    Clearly, the grand army of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect had arrived.


    With Heavenly River State upied, this time, the corpse creatures were evidently more numerous and more savage, especially considering the self-detonating ones that had broken the formations of Heavenly River State: these thoughts made the cultivators of the Three Sects from Jiuye City shudder.


    All the cultivators of Jiuye City began to grow panic-stricken, now that their mountain''s protective formation was obstructed by two Golden Core dried corpses and couldn''t closepletely.


    If the entire forces of the Heavenly Demon Sect were to bear down upon them, they might not even withstand three days.


    "All Foundation Establishment cultivators, Qi Cultivators, to the city walls¡ªrepel the enemy from the outside!" a newly progressed Purple Mansion cultivator from the Spirit Beast Sect suddenly roared.


    As all the Purple Mansion cultivators were struggling to ughter the demon cultivators, he was the only one who could issuemands.


    Lin Shiming and the other watching Foundation Establishment cultivators also made their way toward the city walls.


    However, their gazes were all fixed on Jiuye Mountain; if Jiuye Mountain fell, no matter how well they defended, it would all be futile.


    But what struck Lin Shiming as odd was that such arge city like Jiuye City was all too easily conquered. He could understand that Purple Mansion cultivators from the three great sects might not have reacted in time, but why were the Golden Core True Persons also without warning.


    This was something Lin Shiming couldn''t understand.


    Of course, while his confusion remained, what they had to face now was the assault of Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect.


    Before the Purple Mansion cultivators showed any signs of copse, these Foundation Establishment cultivators couldn''t dare to flee, unless they no longer wished to remain in the Zhao Kingdom''s cultivation world.


    There were many Foundation Establishment cultivators watching thepetition, and Lin Shiming and his twopanions mingled among them. However, during the retreat, an ident urred once again.


    A terrifying explosion was heard from atop Jiuye Mountain, and the Dao Enlightenment Tree in the sky shrank abruptly, revealing an ancient tree face with an expression of anguished weeping, and then the whole tree, rooted in the void, began to pull free from the clouds and flew towards the summit of Jiuye Mountain.


    Lin Shiming and the others extended their Divine Sense towards the summit of Jiuye Mountain, only to see that, at some unknown time, two Purple Mansionte-stage cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect had already reached the vicinity of the Spirit Tree''s main body.


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    At the very top, on the Enlightenment tform, they were clearly trying to dig up the main body of the Spirit Tree.


    But as the Spirit Tree returned, the entire mountaintop became once again an ocean of Spirit Tree branches, and at this moment, countless roots burst forth from underground, transforming into pythons that devoured people and headed towards the two Purple Mansionte-stage demon cultivators.


    The two demon cultivators took out the Heavenly Demon Banner, with countless demon patterns surging out, and even two Peak Purple Mansion demons appeared.


    Yet they still couldn''t do anything to the Spirit Tree for the time being.


    More and more roots appeared, and the various Dao Arts manifested became increasingly terrifying.


    In this moment, the Dao Enlightenment Tree, now seen by everyone as a fearsome Peak Purple Mansion tree demon, the two Purple Mansionte-stage demon cultivators couldn''t even withstand the time it takes to burn an incense stick and were immediately pierced through, leaving only one who managed to flee by using Blood Escape.


    The disy of power from the Spirit Tree caused San Ye Loose''splexion to change involuntarily.


    However, what was even more terrifying was that, on the battlefield of the Golden Core cultivators, Shen Ji True Person had appeared without anyone noticing, and his Shen Ji Tower suddenly established itself, trapping the Corpse Loose inside. At the same time, two Golden Core sword cultivators appeared, and their swords were aimed at Corpse Loose.


    "Shen Ji True Person, how are you here, and Wanjian Sect''s Profound Darkness Dual Swords; how could youe?" Corpse True Person couldn''t believe it and immediately detonated two Golden Core corpses.


    Escaping from the Shen Ji Tower was essential¡ªafter all, it was the Qingxuan Sect''s number one magical treasure. If trapped by the Shen Ji Tower, there was a fear that today would witness the fall of the first Golden Core True Person in both countries.


    The self-destruction of the two corpses allowed Corpse Loose to retreat. At this moment, he was both shocked and angry, but he managed to dodge the attack.


    However, a Golden Core True Person from the Heavenly Demon Sect next to him was not so lucky. In the blink of an eye, he was enveloped by the Shen Ji Tower, and with Heavenly Sword True Person, Profound Sword True Person, and Dark Sword True Person all striking together, they instantly killed a Golden Core True Person from the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    In an instant, the scene changed to seven Golden Core cultivators from Zhao Kingdom''s Three Sects and Qi Country''s Wanjian Sect, facing off against three Golden Core cultivators from the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect.


    "Escape!" The three Golden Core True Persons almost simultaneously bellowed, all turning into a mist of blood, using Blood Escape to flee.


    At the same time, the seven Golden Core True Persons also instantly gave chase.


    Atop Jiuye Mountain, another group of cultivators dressed in Wanjian robes appeared ¨C cultivators from the Wanjian Sect. From the North City area adjacent to Jiuye Mountain, several more Purple Mansion cultivators emerged, surrounding the demon sect cultivators like San Ye Loose.


    San Ye Loose was now also panic-stricken; they had not expected that this was the ploy of the Spirit Beast Sect, aimed at striking at the higher echelons of the Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect.


    After the battle, of the dozen or so Purple Mansion cultivators who had infiltrated Jiuye Mountain, only San Ye Loose managed to forcefully break through, leaving behind the corpses of a dozen other hermits.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming and the others, who were observing from afar, were also somewhat surprised but more so delighted.


    Once the Three Sects had allied with the Wanjian Sect, and with this recent heavy blow, the two sects would not dare to continue their assault on the allied sects.

 Chapter 206 Another Slot Gained

    The change in the scene was not only limited to a great victory for the Purple Mansion and Golden Core Cultivators.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The encroaching demon fog had not even assaulted the city walls before the City Protection Great Formation of Jiuye Mountain was immediately activated.


    The enormous Spirit Shield not only protected Jiuye City within it but also formed a terrifying Ten Directions Heavenly Thunder Formation.


    The entire sky, in the blink of an eye, was covered by dark clouds, amid which countless bolts of lightning shed, emitting a dull thunderous roar.


    One after another, the lightning struck down, with the foremost sts targeting the towering Heavenly Demon banners.


    With each thunderbolt that fell, a Heavenly Demon banner would explode, with only a few of the banner magical treasures escaping destruction.


    In the sky, suddenly, the sound of a flute began to resonate; the flute''s melody extremely pleasing to the ear.


    Everyone followed the sound only to see a Purple Mansion female cultivator wearing a green dress, holding a jade flute, and slowly ying it.


    While the flute''s sound had no attacking power, countless beastly roars came crashing like andslide and tsunami; from atop Jiuye Mountain, numerous Spirit Beasts began to emerge, as if a giant fissure had opened on the mountain, and the pouring out Spirit Beasts rushed towards the area outside the city.


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    The demon fog was scattered by the Heavenly Thunder, the Heavenly Demon banners were destroyed one by one, and arge number of Foundation Establishment and Qi Cultivation demon cultivators, who had not yet managed to breach the city walls to revel in a new round of battle spoils, were struck down in droves by the Spirit Beasts and lightning.


    The cultivators of the Three Sects who had originally been defending atop the city walls also streamed out of the city to attack.


    This time, it would be a great victory.


    "Uncle Seventh Ancestor, Senior Brother, let''s go too!" Lin Shiming, seeing the copse of the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect outside the city walls, was immediately roused to act.


    At this moment, the demon sect cultivators were no longer fearsome fighters but were like walking Storage Bags.


    The three of them nodded together and headed outside the city.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming wasn''t worried about Purple Mansion cultivators or Foundation Establishment Perfection demon cultivatorsunching a sneak attack from the shadows, for those powerful demon cultivators didn''t have the concept of covering the rear and had long since fled without a trace.


    All over the battlefield, bursts of blood mist and Escape Light appeared; at this moment, Blood Escape was the fastest, followed by various Five Elements Escape Techniques and Escape Talismans.


    Those without an Escape Technique or whose techniques were interrupted could only die on the spot under their assault.


    One by one, Foundation Establishment cultivators fell under their pursuit.


    This great battlested for an entire day.


    In the pursuit, Lin Shiming had in a total of ten demon sect Foundation Establishment cultivators, including threete-stage and seven middle-stage, his gains were substantial; although he did not acquire any powerful magical artifacts, he did obtain quite a few Third Rank Inferior Grade and Third Rank Intermediate Grade artifacts, as well as a significant number of Spirit Stones.


    Lin Xianzhi and Xie An also had their share of loot.


    And when the Purple Mansion cultivators of the Three Sects returned, they brought the news that this time, they had in two Golden Core True Persons, one each from the Corpse Refining Sect and the Heavenly Demon Sect.


    The great victory for the Three Sects also set the entire Jiuye City cheering.


    ...


    In Laiyue Tower, the ancient wooden window was open; Lin Shiming looked through the window at the entirety of Jiuye City.


    After the Ten Directions Heavenly Thunder Formation came a continuous rainy season, washing away the bloodstains left by the battle and making Jiuye City renew itself once again; lush greenery spread everywhere, a sight refreshing and pleasing to the eye.


    Looking over at Jiuye Mountain again, that gigantic white fir Spirit Tree remained as always, radiating Spirit Light, with the nine Dao Enlightenment tforms faintly visible.


    Lin Shiming reflected on the matter of the Dao Enlightenment tforms and still felt somewhat fortunate. Had he defeated Chen Yuan that day, he did not believe he would be one of the remaining two Dao Enlightenment seeds.


    Theyout of this battle was only known to the Golden Core True Persons, even the Purple Mansion Hermits were all kept in the dark.


    Of course, he was the only one who knew of this defeat. Even Xie An and Lin Xianzhi thought his True Yuan had truly been exhausted, and he lost to Chen Yuan.


    Moreover, Lin Shiming recalled the words of the Hermit of a Thousand Demons from that day, as well as the white fir Spirit Tree''s final disy of divine might.


    He feared the Spirit Tree might indeed possess the ability to "absorb the Dao"; otherwise, the Spirit Beast Sect would not have allowed cultivators from the other two sects to participate, even Foundation Establishment families, but would have kept it hidden and tightly controlled.


    However, as this im came from a Demon Cultivator, people still held doubts, and as for verification, only the Qingxuan Sect''s Shen Ji True Person, Heavenly Sword True Person, and the Heavenly Talisman True Person from the Spirit Talisman Sect were qualified, with no chance for others to verify.


    That white fir Spirit Tree was, after all, the treasure tree of true person White Fir.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, no longer thinking about the white fir Spirit Tree, but he did begin to miss Fangmu Mountain.


    "The peach blossoms on the mountain must be blooming again at this moment!" Lin Shiming murmured softly.


    Now, with the involvement of the Wanjian Sect, the battle involving the Wanjian Sect of Qi Country, the Heavenly Demon Sect of Zhao Kingdom and Chu Country, and the Corpse Refining Sect of Yan Country, had be inevitable.


    There was no longer any suspense about the oue, and their return was alsorgely foreseeable.


    He had left the mountain at the age of thirty-five, and now, at forty-two, seven years had passed in the blink of an eye.


    "Shiming,e over for a meeting!" With a transmission of sound, Lin Shiming closed the window and went to the next room where Lin Xianzhi was.


    Lin Houyuan was also there at this moment, both of them wearing extremely rxed expressions.


    "Shiming, the great war has ended, and several Golden Core True Persons have negotiated!" Lin Xianzhi spoke with joy.


    Although Lin Shiming had anticipated the end of the great war, he did not expect it to conclude so swiftly.


    "The Spirit Beast Sect has ceded half of Heavenly River State, and the Spirit Talisman Sect has ceded half of Youzhou!" Lin Xianzhi continued.


    Hearing this, Lin Shiming understood. The Heavenly Demon Sect and Corpse Refining Sect had formed an alliance, and each sect had ten Golden Core Cultivators. Despite losing one, they remained a force not to be underestimated.


    This time, it was clearly the appearance of the Wanjian Sect that made a difference, along with the elder Shen Ji''s breakthrough to be the only Golden Core True Person to reach Perfection among the Three Sects, and with Shen Ji Tower, encountering average Golden Core Cultivators meant certain death.


    "Furthermore, Shiming, the Dao Enlightenment convention will continue. Because too many of the Dao Enlightenment seeds died, both you and Ye Changyuan have been selected!"  Lin Xianzhi added another piece of news that shocked Lin Shiming.


    He hadn''t expected that there would be a spot for him in the Dao Enlightenment convention.


    However, Lin Shiming''s expression was not overly jubnt.


    Seeing this, Lin Xianzhi smiled gently, and further rified:


    "Shiming, don''t be deceived by the Hermit of a Thousand Demons. This time, Shen Ji True Person himself has spoken.


    The white fir Spirit Tree only possesses the Spiritual Power necessary to "participate in the Dao" but does not have the capacity to "absorb the Dao." As cultivators gain enlightenment, they also leave a portion of their power with the Spirit Tree, making the Dao Enlightenment tformsrger and even more abundant."


    Lin Shiming''s eyebrows then rxed, knowing Shen Ji True Person was not from the Spirit Beast Sect and would not deceive them.


    "Shiming, the Dao Enlightenment will start in one month, and in ten days, there will be a major auction that only Foundation Establishment Cultivators can participate in. Even Purple Mansion Jade Liquid will be up for auction!" Before Lin Shiming could finish being astonished, Lin Houyuan interjected excitedly.


    Such a grand auction, even if unable to acquire the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid critical for breakthrough to the Purple Mansion stage, offered a rare chance to witness other treasures.

 Chapter 207 Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid

    The news of the auction and the Dao Enlightenment Conference both filled Lin Shiming with a sense of excitement.


    In this great battle, he had opportunistically acquired quite a few Spirit Stones. Discounting those spent on purchasing the Crimson me Rod, and not counting the Superior Grade Spirit Stones, he still had three and a half million Inferior Grade Spirit Stones, enough to buy some desired treasures and Magic Artifacts at the auction.


    Of course, as the Family Head of the Lin Family, he also needed to set aside some Spirit Stones topensate the cultivators who had fallen for the family; he also needed to purchase some useful Spiritual Objects or Spirit nts for the family.


    After the great war was the best time for stable development.


    All in all, three million Spirit Stones were enough.


    "Shiming, this is the Dragon Blood Pill sent by Xie An, a total of four pills!" Lin Xianzhi suddenly took out a Jade Bottle, which contained exactly four Dragon Blood Pills.


    Lin Shiming opened the bottle cap, and a surge of astonishing blood qi burst forth, causing any cultivator who inhaled it to feel their blood boiling immediately.


    His face was instantly filled with surprise; the effects of these Dragon Blood Pills were more than twice as good as those of the Dragon Lizard Essence Blood, clearly containing other Spirit Pills and elixirs in addition to the Dragon Lizard Essence Blood and flesh.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Xie An had indeed kept one for himself and sent the rest as promised.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, with these Dragon Blood Pills, Uncle Two''s breakthrough to Foundation Establishment is hopeful!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but speak excitedly. After saying this, he took out two Dragon Blood Pills for himself and handed the remaining two back to Lin Xianzhi.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, you should also keep two of these Dragon Blood Pills, they should also be very beneficial to your health. You are our Lin Family''s best hope for breaking through to the Purple Mansion!"


    Lin Xianzhi waved his hand and sighed without taking the Dragon Blood Pills.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, even if you are going to participate in the Profound Grade Secret Realm expedition five years from now, you''ll need sufficient blood qi. By then Shiming will also need Great-Uncle''s help to together obtain the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid and its medicinal properties!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xianzhi''s eyes shifted, and he finally made up his mind. He took one Dragon Blood Pill from the bottle to keep, and then with an undeniable look in his eyes, he made Lin Shiming take thest one as well.


    "One pill is enough for me. Save the rest for the elders of our family."


    After leaving Lin Xianzhi''s room, he went to Lin Houshou''s room.


    Lin Houshou was still engrossed in researching formations, and they were Third Rank Formations. Although his own Cultivation Level was stalled at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and he couldn''t set up a Third Rank Formation by himself, Lin Houshou had always been studying these formations.


    The family was able to use formations to refine Third Rank Elixirs. In his view, Qi Refining Cultivators could also set up Third Rank Formations.


    "Uncle Two!"


    "Shiming, have a seat!" Lin Houshou put away the Jade Slip, took out a teapot, spread out at the rosewood table in the room, and started brewing Spiritual Tea for Lin Shiming.


    "Uncle Two, this is the refined Dragon Blood Pill. You can start preparing enough Spirit Stones to auction off the Foundation Establishment Pills!" Lin Shiming took out the Pill Bottle and ced it on the table.


    Lin Houshou''s body shook violently. He then picked up the Pill Bottle, overwhelmed with excitement.


    Twenty years ago, he had gone from disappointment to despair.


    Which person involved in Immortal Cultivation didn''t yearn for immortality? And which Qi Refinement cultivator wouldn''t envy the Foundation Establishment?


    If it wasn''t that the family needed him, if it wasn''t that the family needed an Array Master, maybe after reaching the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, he would have found a ce with good feng shui and attempted the Foundation Establishment path. Sessful or not, at least he''d have no regrets in his life.


    But now, with the Dragon Blood Pill, there was great hope for Foundation Establishment even at the age of eighty.


    In an instant, Lin Houshou couldn''t help but shed tears.


    After leaving the Dragon Blood Pills with Lin Houshou, Lin Shiming left the room.


    Returning to his own room, Lin Shiming continued his practice of the Split Spirit Decision.


    Now that he had more and more magic artifacts, the demand for his Divine Sense had grown even greater, especially with the journey to the Profound Grade Secret Realm in five years, there was no room for rxation.


    Whether it waspeting for the Spirit Pill known as the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid or vying to obtain a sword for the Purple Mansion Loose, great strength was necessary.


    As a result, his original n to learn artifact refining had to be postponed once again.


    For the next five years, he nned to devote himself entirely to the cultivation of the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique and the Split Spirit Decision.


    With a fierce slice of the Split Spirit de, even though Lin Shiming had practiced countless times, he couldn''t help but stagger, enduring intense pain, baring his teeth.


    Another ten days flew by in a sh, and finally, the auction had arrived.


    It was the first time that everyone from the Lin Family had emerged from seclusion.


    Heading towards themercial district of Jiuye City.


    Although only Foundation Establishment cultivators could attend the auction, Qi cultivators could still go to explore the shops and stalls that were open that day.


    For this auction event, the Spirit Beast Sect had spared no expense, not only by offering a host of rare treasures in their shops but also by reducing stall fees by eighty percent.


    By the time the group arrived at themercial street, they could sense the vastness of Jiuye City and the multitude of cultivators there.


    Lin Shiming even encountered members of the Xu Family, who were also cultivators from Yunzhou. At this moment, Qian Bosheng was also leading the Qian Family''s disciples,ing from outside.


    After exchanging friendly greetings, both families went their separate ways.


    "Shiming, let''s set up a stall as well!" Lin Yuzheng, seeing so many cultivators, was excited at the prospect, understanding that the eighty percent reduction in stall fees also meant a substantial increase in profits.


    They had in no small number of demon cultivators and now had quite a few spoils of war.


    "Grandfather Five, of course, we can!" Lin Shiming responded with admiration upon hearing this.


    Lin Yuzheng was truly worthy of being the person responsible for the family''s trade caravan.


    "Shiming, I won''t attend the auction either. Let''s set up a stall together, and meanwhile, help the younger generations of our family''s ze branch prepare some Spirit Beast Eggs and Spirit Beast younglings," Lin Houyuan also spoke up.


    Lin Shiming thought for a moment and then agreed, knowing that his father was losing hope of breaking through to the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment, and that a third-rank Intermediate-Grade magic artifact was optimal for both attack and defense.


    With the Qi cultivators of the Lin Family going to the stall area, only Lin Shiming and Lin Houyuan were left to head to the auction.


    The auction hall of Jiuye City was located right at the center of themercial district, also home to a spirit tree, but this one was a third-rank Superior Grade Phoenix Tree.


    Along the way, Lin Shiming also saw many cultivators from the Wanjian Sect, simr to the green robes of the Qingxuan Sect and the embroidered robes of the Spirit Beast Sect, except the disciples of the Wanjian Sect all carried a broad sword on their backs.


    The two entered the auction through the hall doors and casually found seats in the full hall.


    At this moment, the hall was filled with Foundation Establishment cultivators, while in some private rooms at the back of the hall were Purple Mansion cultivators. This auction event, it seemed, was on a much grander scale than Qingxuan Sect''s own Qingxuan auction.


    Whether it was the elegance and scale of the auction hall or the items up for bidding, it was iparable to any other day.


    After half an hour had passed, with a Purple Mansion cultivator in an embroidered robe walking into the hall, the auction officially began.


    "I thank all fellow daoists for traveling from afar to aid our sect against external enemies. Now that the great battles have ceased, our sect has specially organized this auction event! My name is Chen Yuan, Daoist name San Ye, and I am responsible for this auction!"


    "Like always, the highest bidder wins, and if you are short on Spirit Stones, you may auction your items or treasures on the spot as payment!"


    "The first auction item, Mu Xin''s Spiritual Liquid, can help a second-rank wood demon break through to the third rank. The starting bid is fifty thousand, with each increase no less than a thousand!"

 Chapter 208 - 209 Shiyi’s Accident

    The auction of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade set the entire auction hall abuzz. Not only were Foundation Establishment cultivators participating in the auction, but at this moment, there were also quite a number of Purple Mansion cultivators bidding.


    After all, Purple Mansion cultivators also had families, disciples, and descendants.


    And as each Purple Mansion cultivator opened their mouth, the pressure on the Foundation Establishment cultivators increased, except for the descendants of sects. Those family cultivators without a strong backing hesitated.


    "Four million Spirit Stones!"


    "Four million two hundred thousand Spirit Stones!"


    ...


    The price of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade kept rising, and at this moment, Lin Xianzhi suddenly looked at Lin Shiming and handed him a Storage Bag.


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    Inside the Storage Bag were two million inferior-grade Spirit Stones, including the superior-grade Spirit Stones they had acquired earlier.


    Lin Xianzhi¡¯s action was obviously to use the full power of the entire n to purchase a Zi Xuan Precious Jade for Lin Shiming.


    It was also a deration of determination, letting Lin Shiming bid freely.


    However, before he even started bidding, he realized that the Spirit Stones for the Zi Xuan Precious Jade had already reached six million inferior-grade Spirit Stones.


    In the end, the Zi Xuan Precious Jade was sold at a price of seven million eight hundred thousand Spirit Stones, taken by Wanqing of the Wanjian Sect.


    This set a record for the highest price in this auction.


    When this price was announced, many cultivators felt it was incredibly insane; even the price of Purple Mansion Jade Liquid had never reached such heights, and now, the price greatly exceeded that of Purple Mansion Jade Liquid.


    Obviously, with the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect encroaching on some territories of the Zhao Kingdom, the kingdom¡¯s resources had been greatly reduced. Moreover, in this war, many Purple Mansion families had turned into Foundation Establishment families, and many Foundation Establishment families had be Qi Cultivation families.


    At this moment, it was natural for people to sell their family assets andpete for the Zi Xuan Precious Jade.


    Nevertheless, Wanqing was after all a core disciple of the Wanjian Sect, and his identity was clearly not low.


    After sessfully bidding for the item, Wanqing immediately left the auction hall without a trace.


    Apanying him were several Foundation Establishment cultivators and a Purple Mansion Elder from the Wanjian Sect. If the Zi Xuan Precious Jade was not dealt with quickly, it might be at risk, as some Purple Mansion loose cultivators and even Purple Mansion families might take chances.


    With Wanqing and the others leaving, quite a few cultivators also left, most of them in theter stages of Foundation Establishment or having reached the perfection of Foundation Establishment. There were also a few Purple Mansion cultivators among them.


    However, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi stayed at the auction.


    Although he disliked Wanqing¡¯s mannerisms, he alsocked the strength to entertain crooked ideas.


    It was better to see if there were any treasures worth bidding for in the auction.


    The following treasures were all Magical Treasures and Fourth Rank objects, and there was even a Fourth Rank Artifact Refining inheritance included. The value of the inheritance was no less than that of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade. Of course, Lin Shiming and others were envious but unable to bid on it.


    n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The final treasure was a Fourth Rank elixir called the Purple Cloud Pill. Even Purple Mansion cultivators could hoard and take this elixir to increase their cultivation level.


    The final item was a Fifth Rank Magical Treasure talisman, fought over by Purple Mansion cultivators from The Great Sects, and it was eventually sold for an astronomical price of eighteen million Spirit Stones.


    After the auction concluded, Lin Shiming felt it had been a worthwhile visit. Not only had he acquired the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid and the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower, but he had also witnessed an auction where bids exceeded ten million.


    Once the auction was over, Lin Shiming and hispanion made their way to the street market stalls, where the Lin Family¡¯s stall was surprisingly bustling.


    Lin Yuzheng, in ordance with the Lin Family¡¯s strategy, would give customers a Second Rank spiritual object of Intermediate Grade or lower with every purchase of a Third Rank spiritual object.


    Although the discount was not much, for many Loose Cultivators, any discount meant the seller had a conscience.


    Not to mention, in front of the Lin Family¡¯s stall, there was also a pot of Mingxin Tea. Any cultivator who purchased an item was invited to enjoy a cup of spiritual tea. Although it wasn¡¯t worth many spirit stones, this unique promotion quickly caught fire in the market area.


    Many stall owners began to do the same as the Lin Family, giving away items and serving spiritual tea.


    But by the time they realized, the Lin Family had already taken the lead.


    Once the auction event concluded, many of the participants, especially those from Foundation Establishment families and the Purple Mansion families, had gone home, resulting in much less foot traffic.


    "Fifth Grandpa, truly impressive!" Lin Shiming saw Lin Yuzheng sell another Third Rank Inferior Grade magical artifact. He took out a cup, poured some spiritual tea, and offered it to Lin Yuzheng to drink.


    "The Family Head is too kind. This was inspired by your model!" Lin Yuzheng sipped the spiritual tea with eyes narrowed in pleasure, but he couldn¡¯t help but openly express his admiration for Lin Shiming.


    This sales model was already well-established in Xing County. If the Lin Family were to have another chance toe to Jiuye City, they could offer even greater discounts next time and profit even more.


    The other Lin Family juniors also beamed with smiles at this moment. The campaign was over, and beyond the rxation of body and mind, everyone felt even more the importance of belonging to a n.


    If the family wasn¡¯t strong enough, the likelihood of death on such conscripted battlefields would be much greater. With the battles between Zhao and Chu, the number of Loose Cultivators in both immortal cultivation nations would have dwindled considerably.


    "Shiming, I¡¯ve purchased some young spirit beasts and a few spirit beast eggs!" Lin Houyuan also approached, carrying two Spirit Beast Bags and a Spirit Beast bracelet.


    The market in Jiuye City falls under the Spirit Beast Sect¡¯s influence, and the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect have perfected the breeding and selling of young spirit beasts ¡ª the prices were much more affordable than within the Qingxuan Sect¡¯s territory.


    "In time, if the family¡¯s younger generation has talent with spirit beasts, it will be a significant increase in ourbat power!"


    "Mm-hm!" Lin Xianzhi also nodded his agreement. The Lin Family was currently short on cultivators but not on resources. They had the Green Lotus fish bred in the Qinglian Pool, the increasing profits from the Xing County Square Market, growing influence in the Qingyun Square Market, and the mines in Lingnan County.


    These would allow the talented cultivators of the Lin Family to grow alongside their spirit beasts.


    However, at that moment, a message arrived via a Spirit Message,nding directly in front of Lin Houyuan.


    After examining the Spirit Talisman, Lin Houyuan¡¯s expression changed:


    "Shiming, Seventh Great Uncle, something has happened to Shiyi!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi¡¯s expressions changed as well. They instructed Lin Yuzheng to continue manning the stall, and then the three of them walked deeper into the market area.


    They quickly located Lin Shiyi at a stall.


    At that moment, a brocade-clothed Foundation Establishment cultivator had hold of Lin Shiyi¡¯s hand.


    Lin Shiyi struggled to free himself, but he couldn¡¯t break free.


    He was only at the peak of Qi Cultivation in body training, while the other party was a Foundation Establishment cultivator with a clearly extraordinary martial skill.


    "Fellow Daoist, what is the meaning of grabbing the hand of a member of my family?" Lin Shiming took a step forward.


    With a flick of his hand, the brocade-clothed cultivator¡¯s grip felt an immense force. He stumbled back several steps before managing to steady himself.


    The brocade-clothed cultivator, seeing Lin Shiming, became furious and then shouted loudly:


    "How dare you! Do you know who I am?"

 Chapter 209 Shiyis Accident

    The auction of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade set the entire auction hall abuzz. Not only were Foundation Establishment cultivators participating in the auction, but at this moment, there were also quite a number of Purple Mansion cultivators bidding.


    After all, Purple Mansion cultivators also had families, disciples, and descendants.


    And as each Purple Mansion cultivator opened their mouth, the pressure on the Foundation Establishment cultivators increased, except for the descendants of sects. Those family cultivators without a strong backing hesitated.


    "Four million Spirit Stones!"


    "Four million two hundred thousand Spirit Stones!"


    ...


    The price of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade kept rising, and at this moment, Lin Xianzhi suddenly looked at Lin Shiming and handed him a Storage Bag.


    Continue reading at empiren/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Inside the Storage Bag were two million inferior-grade Spirit Stones, including the superior-grade Spirit Stones they had acquired earlier.


    Lin Xianzhi''s action was obviously to use the full power of the entire n to purchase a Zi Xuan Precious Jade for Lin Shiming.


    It was also a deration of determination, letting Lin Shiming bid freely.


    However, before he even started bidding, he realized that the Spirit Stones for the Zi Xuan Precious Jade had already reached six million inferior-grade Spirit Stones.


    In the end, the Zi Xuan Precious Jade was sold at a price of seven million eight hundred thousand Spirit Stones, taken by Wanqing of the Wanjian Sect.


    This set a record for the highest price in this auction.


    When this price was announced, many cultivators felt it was incredibly insane; even the price of Purple Mansion Jade Liquid had never reached such heights, and now, the price greatly exceeded that of Purple Mansion Jade Liquid.


    Obviously, with the Heavenly Demon Sect and the Corpse Refining Sect encroaching on some territories of the Zhao Kingdom, the kingdom''s resources had been greatly reduced. Moreover, in this war, many Purple Mansion families had turned into Foundation Establishment families, and many Foundation Establishment families had be Qi Cultivation families.


    At this moment, it was natural for people to sell their family assets andpete for the Zi Xuan Precious Jade.


    Nevertheless, Wanqing was after all a core disciple of the Wanjian Sect, and his identity was clearly not low.


    After sessfully bidding for the item, Wanqing immediately left the auction hall without a trace.


    Apanying him were several Foundation Establishment cultivators and a Purple Mansion Elder from the Wanjian Sect. If the Zi Xuan Precious Jade was not dealt with quickly, it might be at risk, as some Purple Mansion loose cultivators and even Purple Mansion families might take chances.


    With Wanqing and the others leaving, quite a few cultivators also left, most of them in theter stages of Foundation Establishment or having reached the perfection of Foundation Establishment. There were also a few Purple Mansion cultivators among them.


    However, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi stayed at the auction.


    Although he disliked Wanqing''s mannerisms, he alsocked the strength to entertain crooked ideas.


    It was better to see if there were any treasures worth bidding for in the auction.


    The following treasures were all Magical Treasures and Fourth Rank objects, and there was even a Fourth Rank Artifact Refining inheritance included. The value of the inheritance was no less than that of the Zi Xuan Precious Jade. Of course, Lin Shiming and others were envious but unable to bid on it.


    The final treasure was a Fourth Rank elixir called the Purple Cloud Pill. Even Purple Mansion cultivators could hoard and take this elixir to increase their cultivation level.


    The final item was a Fifth Rank Magical Treasure talisman, fought over by Purple Mansion cultivators from The Great Sects, and it was eventually sold for an astronomical price of eighteen million Spirit Stones.


    After the auction concluded, Lin Shiming felt it had been a worthwhile visit. Not only had he acquired the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid and the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower, but he had also witnessed an auction where bids exceeded ten million.


    Once the auction was over, Lin Shiming and hispanion made their way to the street market stalls, where the Lin Family''s stall was surprisingly bustling.


    Lin Yuzheng, in ordance with the Lin Family''s strategy, would give customers a Second Rank spiritual object of Intermediate Grade or lower with every purchase of a Third Rank spiritual object.


    Although the discount was not much, for many Loose Cultivators, any discount meant the seller had a conscience.


    Not to mention, in front of the Lin Family''s stall, there was also a pot of Mingxin Tea. Any cultivator who purchased an item was invited to enjoy a cup of spiritual tea. Although it wasn''t worth many spirit stones, this unique promotion quickly caught fire in the market area.


    Many stall owners began to do the same as the Lin Family, giving away items and serving spiritual tea.


    But by the time they realized, the Lin Family had already taken the lead.


    Once the auction event concluded, many of the participants, especially those from Foundation Establishment families and the Purple Mansion families, had gone home, resulting in much less foot traffic.


    "Fifth Grandpa, truly impressive!" Lin Shiming saw Lin Yuzheng sell another Third Rank Inferior Grade magical artifact. He took out a cup, poured some spiritual tea, and offered it to Lin Yuzheng to drink.


    "The Family Head is too kind. This was inspired by your model!" Lin Yuzheng sipped the spiritual tea with eyes narrowed in pleasure, but he couldn''t help but openly express his admiration for Lin Shiming.


    This sales model was already well-established in Xing County. If the Lin Family were to have another chance toe to Jiuye City, they could offer even greater discounts next time and profit even more.


    The other Lin Family juniors also beamed with smiles at this moment. The campaign was over, and beyond the rxation of body and mind, everyone felt even more the importance of belonging to a n.


    If the family wasn''t strong enough, the likelihood of death on such conscripted battlefields would be much greater. With the battles between Zhao and Chu, the number of Loose Cultivators in both immortal cultivation nations would have dwindled considerably.


    "Shiming, I''ve purchased some young spirit beasts and a few spirit beast eggs!" Lin Houyuan also approached, carrying two Spirit Beast Bags and a Spirit Beast bracelet.


    The market in Jiuye City falls under the Spirit Beast Sect''s influence, and the disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect have perfected the breeding and selling of young spirit beasts ¡ª the prices were much more affordable than within the Qingxuan Sect''s territory.


    "In time, if the family''s younger generation has talent with spirit beasts, it will be a significant increase in ourbat power!"


    "Mm-hm!" Lin Xianzhi also nodded his agreement. The Lin Family was currently short on cultivators but not on resources. They had the Green Lotus fish bred in the Qinglian Pool, the increasing profits from the Xing County Square Market, growing influence in the Qingyun Square Market, and the mines in Lingnan County.


    These would allow the talented cultivators of the Lin Family to grow alongside their spirit beasts.


    However, at that moment, a message arrived via a Spirit Message,nding directly in front of Lin Houyuan.


    After examining the Spirit Talisman, Lin Houyuan''s expression changed:


    "Shiming, Seventh Great Uncle, something has happened to Shiyi!"


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi''s expressions changed as well. They instructed Lin Yuzheng to continue manning the stall, and then the three of them walked deeper into the market area.


    They quickly located Lin Shiyi at a stall.


    At that moment, a brocade-clothed Foundation Establishment cultivator had hold of Lin Shiyi''s hand.


    Lin Shiyi struggled to free himself, but he couldn''t break free.


    He was only at the peak of Qi Cultivation in body training, while the other party was a Foundation Establishment cultivator with a clearly extraordinary martial skill.


    "Fellow Daoist, what is the meaning of grabbing the hand of a member of my family?" Lin Shiming took a step forward.


    With a flick of his hand, the brocade-clothed cultivator''s grip felt an immense force. He stumbled back several steps before managing to steady himself.


    The brocade-clothed cultivator, seeing Lin Shiming, became furious and then shouted loudly:


    "How dare you! Do you know who I am?"

 Chapter 210 Unknown Cave Mansion Map

    Before Lin Shiming''s eyes, a crowd instantly formed around the vendor''s stall.


    "I might not be very bold, but still, I truly don''t know who you are," Lin Shiming replied with a cold voice as well.


    To him, cultivators who oppress others with their status were incredibly childish. Perhaps if it had been someone at the perfection stage of Foundation Establishment, he might have taken another look.


    The words of Lin Shiming further infuriated the cultivator in the brocade robe; his chest rose, clearly suppressing a great deal of anger, as if he was about to explode at any moment.


    The original vendor, a mere Qi Cultivator, immediately began packing up and hurriedly shrank back, not daring to linger.


    He couldn''t afford to offend the Foundation Establishment cultivators of either family.


    However, the brocade-robed cultivator once again coldly shouted:


    "Stop right there!"


    Following the shout, the peak-stage Qi Cultivator returned with a face full of misery, his expression subservient and filled with apologetic smiles both to his left and right.


    The brocade-robed cultivator then looked back at Lin Shiming and took out a token with the words "Spirit Talisman" on both sides.


    "Do you know now?"


    "That''s right, Xu Hao of the Spirit Talisman Sect is my elder brother! My name is Xu Zhen."


    "Xu Hao? I actually do know him!" Lin Shiming''s expression became somewhat strange, and he couldn''t help but take another look at Xu Zhen.


    He doubted Xu Zhen''s intelligence and wondered how he could have cultivated to the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    "If you know him, then hand over that Jade Slip to me. I had my eyes on that treasure first, and I was the first to buy it. A Qi Cultivation peak stage daring to snatch things before me? You better prepare to apologize!" Xu Zhen said with a sneer.


    "Family Head, I was the first to take interest in that Jade Slip. It was only because I didn''t have enough Spirit Stones that I went to borrow some from Uncle Thirteen, and I even paid a deposit. Why shouldn''t it be considered a sale!" Lin Shiyi was extremely angry at this moment.


    He was a man of strong character, and although he now knew the other party was someone significant, he hadn''t made a mistake and wouldn''t admit to a mistake he hadn''t made.


    He didn''t believe that in Jiuye City''s marketce he could be assassinated by a Foundation Establishment cultivator.


    As Lin Shiyi spoke, a figure in a Daoist robe approached from the distance. The cultivator was dressed in a Spirit Talisman robe, with sharp eyebrows and starry eyes, exuding an impressive presence. It was Xu Hao.


    "Brother, this Qi Cultivator is trying to snatch away what I''m buying, even bringing a helper from a Foundation Establishment family!" Xu Zhen emphasized, tattling about the Foundation Establishment family.


    He had made prior inquiries and knew that the Lin Family was just a Foundation Establishment family from Yunzhou, so he was convinced he wasn''t wrong.


    "Daoist Lin!" However, contrary to his expectations, Xu Hao greeted Lin Shiming with a cupped fist salute, clearly recognizing him.


    After a slight greeting, he suddenly red at Xu Zhen:


    "Xu Zhen, did you mess up again? Go apologize to Daoist Lin Shiming this instant!" Xu Hao''s rebuke was fierce, startling Xu Zhen so much that his show-off expression disappeared, reced by a look of realization as his mouth fell open.


    "Brother, is this the Lin Shiming who defeated you? Howe he looks even younger than me?"


    "I''ve already told you there''s always someone stronger out there, yet you''re still acting like a bully here. Apologize now!" Xu Hao shouted angrily again.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Brother, although he''s stronger than you, I wasn''t looking for trouble. He hadn''t bought it, and I offered a higher price. And, this vendor had agreed with me!" Xu Zhen, remembering his brother''s temperament, added onest point, pointing at the vendor.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Shiming looked at Lin Shiyi, who gave a slight nod. Then, he turned his gaze to the vendor, who shrank his neck, looking extremely guilty.


    He understood then that Xu Zhen might have been a bit overbearing, but it wasn''t actually a robbery; instead, the stall owner was clearly tempted by the higher price offered by Xu Zhen, which led to second thoughts.


    "Senior, spare my life, please seniors, spare my life!" The stall owner immediately knelt down and began kowtowing nonstop to the ground.


    At that moment, the Spirit Beast Sect''s Law Enforcement Team, responsible for managing the market, also arrived, but seeing that no fight had broken out, they dispersed again.


    "Seniors, I am willing topensate with one treasure each!" The Loose Cultivator kept kowtowing until his scalp was bleeding and then took out his Storage Bag,ying out the treasures he had just packed up for Lin Shiming and Xu Zhen to choose from.


    "Even so, apologize to this junior cultivator first!" Xu Hao still demanded coldly.


    Upon seeing this, Xu Zhen, reluctant as ever, caved in under Xu Hao''s stern demeanor.


    "Daoist friend, I was wrong. I apologize!" said Xu Zhen.


    Lin Shiyi, witnessing this, also felt a bit out of his depth. With the stall owner at fault and a Foundation Establishment Cultivator apologizing to him, he truly did not know how to handle the situation, interpersonal rtionships were never his forte.


    "Daoist Xu, since it was a misunderstanding, I too offer my apologies here!" Lin Shiming bowed.


    He then turned to the stall owner and said,


    "Daoist Xu, please choose yourpensation first."


    At this, Xu Hao burst intoughter,


    "Brother Lin has made his offer, how can I not thank Brother Lin!" Xu Hao red at Xu Zhen again, who promptly thanked Lin Shiming.


    He red once more at the stall owner and then, under the stall owner''s reluctant gaze, chose the most expensive Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifact.


    Lin Shiming also wanted Lin Shiyi to pick a treasure, but at that moment, a system prompt appeared again:


    "Please choose a map, and you will obtain the hidden cave mansion of an unknown cultivator in the Qingyun Mountain range!"


    Lin Shiming was stunned at this sudden system prompt.


    He halted mid-sentence and began looking over the stall, eventually picking up an inconspicuous map, much to the stall owner''s surprise.


    "Senior, perhaps you would like to choose something else?" said the stall owner, his face pale once more, knowing very well that the map was terribly drawn, appearing to be the careless work of a novice cultivator.


    In his view, Lin Shiming''s choice was a clear indication that he did not intend to let him off easily and was nning to settle the score after leaving Jiuye City!


    Contrary to being misunderstood by the Loose Cultivator, Lin Shiming then let Lin Shiyi choose another Supreme Grade Magic Artifact, which eased thetter''s pain considerably.


    After packing up his stall, he dashed into the crowd and promptly vanished from sight.


    "Brother Lin, how about a drink at Laiyue Tower?" Xu Hao, obviously oblivious to Lin Shiming''s reason for his first choice of the treasure map, invited him.


    "No, thank you for the kind offer, Brother Xu. My family still wants to set up shop for a while, so I won''t be able to join you. Let''s meet another day!" Lin Shiming bowed and declined, not out of dissatisfaction, but because the Lin Family indeed had many matters to attend to.


    Having purchased three Foundation Establishment Pills, Lin Houshou and Lin Shiyi could both start preparing for their power breakthroughs.


    "Since Brother Lin is busy, let''s make it another time. But I must remind you, Brother Lin, Wan Qing has also obtained a spot for Dao Enlightenment!" Xu Hao mentioned it, clearly aware of the rivalry between Lin Shiming and Wan Qing at the auction.


    Lin Shiming thanked him and then quickly returned to his stall with Lin Shiyi.


    Behind him, Xu Hao watched Lin Shiming disappear into the distance.


    "Brother, this Daoist Lin has superior Body Cultivation strength to mine!" Xu Zhen raised his hand and suddenly spoke.


    "It''s not just his Body Cultivation; he''s got plenty more tricks up his sleeve!" Xu Hao''s gaze turned distant as his mind filled with the battle between Lin Shiming and Chen Yuan from the other day¡­

 Chapter 211 Tribulation Forging Divine Flower

    Laiyue Tower, after the dispute involving Lin Shiyi, the Lin Family also packed up, and everyone returned to their residences.


    In Lin Xianzhi''s room, Lin Shiyi was hanging his head low, feeling somewhat guilty.


    Lin Xianzhi, Lin Yuqing, Lin Houyuan, and a group of Elders were also very serious. This time the situation had been extremely dangerous.


    If Lin Shiming hadn''t arrived in time, there could have been an ident. Lin Shiyi had caused a dispute with a Foundation Establishment cultivator. Even if the Law Enforcement Team had arrived, Xu Zhen was a disciple of the Spirit Talisman Sect, and also a Foundation Establishment cultivator; the one at a disadvantage could only be Lin Shiyi.


    "Shiyi, even though you did not intend it, this action still vited the n''s rules. This time, upon returning to Fangmu Mountain, you will face the wall in the back mountains for ten years, without leaving the mountain. Do you have any objections?" Lin Yuqing, as the Master of the Law Enforcement Hall and the former Great Elder, spoke solemnly.


    "Replying to Great Uncle, Shiyi has no objections!" Lin Shiyi still kept his head down, but was clearly surprised.


    Back at Laiyue Tower, he also felt he had been rash. Facing disciples of a sect, especially those from sects with strong backers, if the family fought with them, they would undoubtedly suffer a great loss.


    Fortunately, Lin Shiming was strong enough and had enough face.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    To Lin Shiyi, the punishment that Lin Yuqing and the other Elders discussed seemed like it was forcing him into secluded cultivation, but one should know he has already been refining Spiritual Energy. In no more than five or six years, he would break through to Foundation Establishment, and that would mean another few years.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, Great Uncle, Family Head, this is the Jade Slip Shiyi purchased, which contains an iplete wind attribute Cultivation Technique. Additionally, here are the treasures Shiyi selected, the Cloak Hammer!" Lin Shiyi then presented the Jade Slip he had bought, along with the acquired magic artifacts one by one.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming was also somewhat excited. At the moment, the Lin Family had Cultivation Techniques of the Five Elements attributes and the thunder attribute, butcked one for the wind attribute. In the future, if the family were to have a member with a rare Spirit Root, they would not have to worry aboutcking a beginner Cultivation Technique.


    Lin Shiming took over the Jade Slip, not touching the magic artifacts.


    Inserting his Divine Sense into the Jade Slip, he found the Cultivation Technique was called Shadow Wind Decree, a Profound Rank Inferior Grade technique. It was a pity, though, that the wind attribute Secret Technique inherently included in the Cultivation Technique was iplete, in addition to it being able to only be cultivated up to the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    Even so, this Cultivation Technique was definitely a precious Secret Technique, especially meaningful for their Lin Family.


    After all, the Lin Family only had a heritage spanning a few hundred years, and most of that time, they were barely scraping by on the edge of the Foundation Establishment families. What theycked was exactly this kind of heritage.


    "Second brother, since purchasing the Cultivation Technique also counts as a merit, keep the Cloak Hammer for yourself!" Lin Shiming, as the Family Head, put away the Jade Slip.


    Then Lin Shiming took out a map, the very one obtained at the stall of the Loose Cultivator.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, Great Uncle, Father, could you also take a look at this map, does it seem familiar?"


    Upon hearing Lin Shiming say this, they also took the map but hesitation soon appeared on their faces.


    This map was too crudely made, almost as if a mortal had scribbled it messily, and itcked any trace of Spirit Intelligence.


    Apart from the material it was drawn on being a notable piece of beast skin, there was nothing to indicate the map''s rarity.


    If it had not been Lin Shiming handing it to them, they wouldn''t have given it another nce.


    After examining it, they shook their heads, indicating they had not seen it before. However, Lin Xianzhi, having personally witnessed Lin Shiming choose this map, asked with some confusion:


    "Indeed, I haven''t seen it before, Shiming, could there be some mystery to this map?"


    "It just looks familiar, as though it is a ce in the Qingyun mountain range," Lin Shiming pondered for a moment, and then replied.


    The group looked closely once again, and even called over Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei to examine it, but they still couldn''t make heads or tails of it.


    Having no other choice, the Lin Family could only give up and put away the map, nning to sort it out after their return to Fangmu Mountain.


    Everyone dispersed, and Lin Shiming also returned to his room. After setting up a formation that isted Divine Sense, he entered the Cave Heaven World.


    A surge of dense Spiritual Energy rushed towards him, filling him with a sense of exhration.


    Since the Cave Heaven now contained Third Rank Supreme Grade Spirit Veins, the ordinary Spirit Grass and various weeds around had started to grow wildly. In just over half a month, they had already reached half a person''s height, which was a drastic change from before.


    Only the Poisonous Dragon Vine, Green Snake Vine, and Purple Gold Vine nting areas remained at the seed stage without sprouting.


    "Ao ao!" The Red-haired Demon Monkey leaped over from a small slope in the distance, continuously howling, its paws incessantly pawing at Lin Shiming''s waistline,


    If it knew how to use the Storage Bag, it would have probably emptied the Storage Bag by now.


    "Here, here, you''re so impatient!" Lin Shiming alsoughed as he took out the prepared Spirit Water and the purchased Beast Nurturing Pill to feed the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    "Chee chee!" A sh of golden light appeared, and the Golden Winged Mantis, which was crouching somewhere nearby, approached as well.


    The Golden Winged Mantis chattered nonstop, its golden triangr head affectionately nuzzling against Lin Shiming''s thigh.


    Lin Shiming followed the routine and took out the Beast Nurturing Pill and Spirit Water, along with Spirit Beast meat.


    The Golden Winged Mantis ate quietly, while the Red-haired Demon Monkey, from time to time, raised its arm high, attempting to reach towards the Golden Winged Mantis, only to be met by two golden scythe-like limbs.


    In the end, the Red-haired Demon Monkey had to turn its back, refusing to look at the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Lin Shiming was amused by the actions of the Red-haired Demon Monkey, but he then took out a Jade Bottle.


    The Jade Bottle was somewhat translucent, revealing the dark green Spiritual Liquid inside. He gently removed the bottle stopper, feeling a rush of extremely pure Wood Attribute Spiritual Energy burst forth, and for a moment, he felt the surrounding Spirit Grass stir.


    This Spiritual Liquid was the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid he had purchased this time.


    After checking the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid, Lin Shiming stored it away, then took out a Tribtion Forging Divine Flower. The Tribtion Forging Divine Flower had three stems, and upon maturity, it would produce three flowers, which needed to be consumed at the same time to achieve the forging effect.


    Of course, the Forging Divine Pill made from the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower was even more effective, but currently, the Lin Family didn''t possess a Third Rank Superior Grade Alchemist.


    Lin Shiming canceled each seed of the Forging Divine Flower, and then cultivated a small plot of Spirit Soil next to the area where he was growing the Spirit Vines.


    After preparing the Spirit Soil, he first poured in the ordinary Nurturing Spirit Liquid prepared by a Spirit nt Master.


    Once the Spiritual Liquid had been irrigated and the Spirit Light flickered, he took out some Spirit Soil, spreading a thinyer over the surface of the cultivatednd, and then carefully sowed the seeds of the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower.


    Once everything was ready, Lin Shiming infused them with the True Yuan from his body. The seeds had suffered a great loss of Spiritual Energy due to incorrect harvesting, and whether they could be revitalized and germinated, he had no great confidence.


    After three days of stimtion, Lin Shiming felt the vitality emanating from the seeds and he heaved a sigh of relief.


    Indeed, just as he had guessed, histent Spiritual Body and Purple Wood Heart Sutra could stimte these seeds.


    However, much to his disappointment, it normally took forty years for the seeds of the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower to mature. Even with the eleration from his Purple Wood Heart Sutra, it would only shorten the time by threefold, meaning that it would be of no use for the uing journey to the Profound Grade Secret Realm in five years.

 Chapter 212 Dao Enlightenment Tips (Thanks for the reward during the fireworks extinguishing)

    ```


    In the blink of an eye, another twenty days had passed. On Jiuye Mountain, a group of cultivators, led by the Spirit Beast Sect''s San Ye Hermit, hade to a massive white fir Spirit Tree.


    The enormous branches of the Spirit Tree formed a vast area of shade.


    Up close, the sight was even more stunning.


    Naturally, the cultivators remembered the day the white fir Spirit Tree''s branches turned into the sea, fresh in their memory and full of awe.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    San Ye Hermit then cast a Spirit Talisman, which disappeared into the void.


    The next moment, a bright light appeared in the seemingly empty space, followed by ripples that spread out like those on ake, revealing a light gate about three meters high.


    "Let''s go. Remember not to wander off. A formation has already been setup here and remember what this old man told you before. Even if the Jiuye Daoist is in seclusion, you won''t be able to withstand his wrath!"


    "As for the rest, I will say no more. You, being the elite disciples of various sects and tribes, should naturally understand!" San Ye Hermit cautioned the nine people once again.


    Lin Shiming and his group nodded hastily as well.


    Jiuye Daoist naturally refers to the Zi Xuan Wood Demon, which is actually a white fir Spirit Tree; to respect Bai Shan True Person, disciples of the Spirit Beast Sect reverently refer to the Wood Demon as San Ye Hermit.


    As they entered through the light gate, the nine were startled. Before their eyes was not an expansive scene, but countless white fir Spirit Trees, muchrger than the ordinary ones, with innumerable roots densely packed and burrowing into the ground, extending as far as the eye could see.


    Only the most central white fir Tree emanated a terrifying spiritual pressure.


    San Ye Hermit continued to lead from the front, while Lin Shiming and the other eight followed carefully.


    This time, among those who came to seek Dao Enlightenment, Lin Shiming had four acquaintances: Xu Hao, Ye Changyuan, and Wan Qing.


    The remaining five were pre-selected: three cultivators from the Spirit Beast Sect, one from the Spirit Talisman Sect, and one from the Qingxuan Sect.


    Soon, they arrived at the true base of the white fir tree, where one could see with the naked eye a gigantic tree face with closed eyes.


    San Ye Hermit gestured with his hand as if to greet it.


    Then, nine branches fell down, each entwining one of the nine people, lifting them into the air.


    Each person was set upon one of the nine vast leaves, which were the foundational Spirit Leaves of the white fir tree, as well as the tforms for Dao Enlightenment.


    The Spirit Leaves were extremely spacious, the size of a room.


    Lin Shiming sat down cross-legged, then it seemed as though the sound of the Great Dao reverberated in his ears, followed by waves of green light and mysterious energy flooding into his body, lingering around his heart.


    Lin Shiming felt a special energy within himself resonating; in his mind, various orbs appeared, one showing a person practicing swordsmanship, the scene of the Grass Sword ying the heavens, another with someonemanding nts and trees as soldiers, invincible in the world, and more scenes of nurturing Spirit nts at the foot of a southern mountain in the rhythm of the sunset and sunrise.


    ...


    Each scene represented the beginning of enlightenment on the Dao.


    Some scenes shone brightly while others were faint and dim.


    From what San Ye Hermit had told him earlier, he knew that if he projected his Divine Sense into any one of the scenes, he could begin his journey towards Dao Enlightenment.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming focused his gaze on the scene of enlightenment on the Grass Sword technique; the seed of the Grass Sword within him had descended, ready to sprout Sword Intent as soon as it germinated.


    Moreover, this Grass Sword technique was even more precise than the version provided by Zi Xuan Hermit. If he were to seed in his enlightenment, he believed his strength would undergo a drastic transformation.


    By that time, he would have an additional safeguard for the journey to the Profound Grade Secret Realm five yearster.


    However, at that moment, a reminder rang out again:


    ```


    "Please observe the transmission of the White Pine Spirit Tree, infer, and be enlightened, and you shall obtain the embryonic form of the Minor Divine Ability called ''The Root of Deduction''!"


    The system''s prompt sent a shiver through Lin Shiming''s body, his Divine Sense pausing abruptly before the Sword Dao vision. He couldn''t even help but rub his eyes, somewhat disbelieving.


    It was actually the embryonic form of a Minor Divine Ability, and furthermore, it was ''The Root of Deduction''.


    Not to mention that the system''s choices are always the most optimal, the word ''deduction'' alone indicated the uniqueness of this divine skill.


    What made him hesitate was that observing and deducing ''The Root of Deduction,'' this process of transmission, might disturb the White Pine Spirit Tree. If he angered it, he couldn''t guarantee that he would leave with his body intact.


    However, in the next moment, Lin Shiming gritted his teeth. The warning given to him by San Ye Hermit didn''t include this, and even his enlightenment didn''t mention that one could not explore along the source of the vision.


    Encouraged by this, Lin Shiming began to slowly observe each individual vision.


    Over a hundred visions were quietly operating. Although he wasn''t merging with them, they filled his mind with terrifying amounts of information.


    Everything about transmitting the Dao was beginning.


    Lin Shiming calmed down and began to understand each vision, organize them, and ssify the same types of deductions together.


    Then he began to look beyond the visions, where he saw root-like tendrils, slightly transparent. They were so fine that one wouldn''t notice them without close inspection.


    In that moment, Lin Shiming had a slight epiphany: all things have roots from which they do not stray, and all things have their ownws of growth.


    Behind the root tendrils were the core life leaves, also connected to the entire Dao Enlightenment Spirit tform.


    Yet in the next moment, Lin Shiming discovered that he was seeing the entire White Pine Spirit Tree, the nine Spirit Leaves, the nine Dao Enlightenment Spirit tforms.


    He saw Wan Qing gaining insights into a sword technique called ''Thousand Swords Unification,'' from a hundred swords to a thousand, and finally to the unification of ten thousand!


    He saw Xu Hao gaining insights into aplex Spirit Talisman, so intricate that it made him dizzy!


    ...


    At that moment, he could see the processes of Dao enlightenment of the other eight cultivators clearly.


    However, what shocked him was that, at some point, a huge face had appeared beside him.


    That face was the spitting image of the one Lin Shiming had seen on the main body of the White Pine Spirit Tree.


    Instantly, Lin Shiming felt an urge to beg for mercy and exit, imagining the wrath he would face.


    But in the next moment, he realized that nothing had happened. He looked again, more carefully, and saw that the tree face was furrowing its brows, with the temples bulging, clearly in a state of closed-door meditation.


    Of course, the most terrifying aspect was that part of the tree face''s head seemed to have been chopped off by a demonic mace, with mists of demonic energy continuously emerging.


    Lin Shiming recalled the scream from the great battle that day and guessed that the attack must have been left by those two Purple Mansion Late Stage Demon Cultivators.


    The White Pine Spirit Tree, a tree demon, was in closed-door meditation to suppress its injury.


    Appearing next to it was simply an instinctive drive to enlighten and transmit the Dao.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming also began to believe what the Thousand Demons Hermit had said standing there. The White Pine Spirit Tree could indeed absorb the Dao.


    The roots evolved all things and also absorbed all things.


    This was also why the Spirit Root of the White Pine Spirit Tree''s main body was not merely about entwining strength, but also capable of producing swords, spears, and manifesting wind and rain!


    It was able to y two Demon Cultivators with its own strength. If not for being distracted by the Dao Enlightenment Token, it might have killed all the dozen or so Purple Mansion Demon Cultivators on the spot!

 Chapter 213 Unable to Comprehend

    Lin Shiming shook his head, casting all his chaotic thoughts aside, for this was not the time to ponder thebat capability of the Bai Shan Spirit Tree.


    Now that the Bai Shan Spirit Tree had closed off to the external world to undergo its cultivation, the entire process of Dao contemtion, Dao transmission, deduction, and enlightenment was under its control.


    This mysterious feeling fascinated him greatly, and in the blink of an eye, he fell into a deep state of sudden enlightenment.


    ...


    Halfway up Jiuye Mountain, there weren''t many cultivators on the observation tform, just a handful of people.


    Among them were Lin Xianzhi, Lin Houyuan, and Xie An.


    The opportunity to observe the Dao contemtion of Jiuye was naturally not avable to everyone, but the close rtives of those undergoing the process could watch.


    This was also a way for the Spirit Beast Sect to promote the greatness of Jiuye Mountain and the grandeur of the sect itself.


    Just like the Ascending Immortal Ladder of Qingxuan Sect, it inspired respect and gave the impression that the path of immortal cultivation was avable to everyone!


    What caught several people''s attention was that the Zi Xuan Hermit was also present not far off in an observation pavilion. He was calmly sipping his tea, serene andposed, but his eyes were constantly watching the nine Spirit tforms of Dao contemtion.


    There were many observation pavilions, and at this moment, there were quite a few people in the other pavilions as well, such as the Purple Mansion cultivators from the Ye Family. Besides them, there were also members from the Spirit Talisman Sect and Wanjian Sect.


    One could tell from the patterns on the robes of the various sects.


    Those with swords were from Wanjian Sect, those with various Spirit Talismans were from Spirit Talisman Sect, those with patterns of flowers, birds, insects, and beasts were from Spirit Beast Sect, and those with vastndscapes were from Qingxuan Sect.


    "It''s started, someone has entered Dao contemtion, it''s our sect''s fellow disciple, Zhao Xiaosheng!"


    Someone on the observation tform couldn''t help but exim.


    And everyone turned their gaze to the distance, only to see that one of the Spirit tforms was now surrounded by an abundant aura of Spirit Light, giving rise to spectacr phenomena. It was as if they were seeing numerous flood dragons emerging from the sea, stirring clouds and controlling thunder and lightning.


    The terrifying phenomena made everyone gasp in amazement.


    "Brother Zhao is indeed worthy of being one of the top five Spirit Children of our generation, a genius with a Wind Spirit Root. It''s said that he possesses a Third Rank huge python that is about to mutate, and now it seems he''sprehended the Flood Dragon Overturning the Seas!"


    "Look quickly, our Spirit Talisman Sect''s Brother Bai has also started, and what he''sprehending is indeed a Heavenly Talisman..."


    The shouts of surprise from the crowd rose one after another.


    One by one, the seeds of Dao contemtion started their process.


    Lin Xianzhi and Xie An, among others, were full of anticipation.


    However, they saw that beams of Spirit Light appeared, enveloping the entire Spirit tforms.


    Yet the Spirit tform where Lin Shiming was located remained dim andckluster.


    The expressions on their faces instantly turned incredibly ugly, and Xie An couldn''t help but nce towards the observation pavilion.


    The Zi Xuan Hermit''s expression at that moment was clearly one of surprise, and as he looked towards Lin Shiming''s Spirit tform, there was a touch of disappointment, while in contrast, his expectations rose as he looked at Ye Changyuan''s Spirit tform.


    The Spirit Light around Ye Changyuan was by no means weak, and he was alsoprehending something rted to the Sword Dao.


    This prevented the Zi Xuan Hermit from leaving in a huff.


    "There''s one person who can''t seem to get into it!" Just then, a highly discordant voice sounded from the observation tform.


    Lin Xianzhi and the others looked over and saw that it was the same person who had been beside Wan Qing at the auction day.


    This person appeared extremely fair and delicate, looking just like a schrly and frail young man, and the sword he carried on his back was a flexible one, named Wan Wuyin.


    At that moment, he was looking at Lin Xianzhi and the others with a teasing gleam in his eyes.


    Naturally, the one he referred to as not being able to enter the state ofprehension was Lin Shiming.


    When the other cultivators heard this, they also couldn''t help but take another look at Lin Xianzhi and the others.


    For a Foundation Establishment family to gain a spot for Dao contemtion was, of course, extraordinarily brilliant.


    But now, it seemed that earning a spot for Dao contemtion was merely a matter of having a slightly more powerful magic artifact and performing a bit better.


    Especially since there had been no movement for a long time on that Spirit tform, Wan Wuyin''s teasing voice grew louder, and the expressions and gazes from those around became all the more pronounced.


    "Pay no mind; that person is merely Wan Qing''sckey!" Seeing that Lin Xianzhi looked somewhat troubled, his demeanor evidently off, Xie An worried that Lin Xianzhi couldn''t restrain himself and thus sent a message telepathically to Lin Xianzhi.


    ...


    What they didn''t know was that at this moment, within the sea of consciousness in Lin Shiming''s mind, a seed had fallen without notice.


    This seed began to turn translucent and started to glow brightly. Eventually, it even began to sprout, forming rootlets the size of a little finger and two delicate, tender leaves.


    Lin Shiming suddenly awoke to find the changes within his sea of consciousness and was astonished beyond measure.


    But that astonishment quickly turned into overwhelming joy, for this sprout and rootlet were the nascent forms of his Minor Divine Ability, the foundation of his deductions.


    All he needed was to stimte this nascent Minor Divine Ability, and he could begin to make deductions.


    And once he reached the Purple Mansion, these nascent forms of Minor Divine Abilities would transform into individual Minor Divine Skills.


    By then, what others desperately pursued with all their efforts, the Minor Divine Abilities, might bemonce for him!


    The thought of such a scenario excited Lin Shiming to an indescribable degree.


    The harvest this time was simply too immense for him.


    Unable to restrain himself, Lin Shiming stimted the foundation of deduction. A wave of Spirit Light rippled out like ripples on ake''s surface, spreading outward from the rootlets.


    Furthermore, he discovered that as the rootlets rippled, he felt that he could control the Dao Enlightenment transmission of the White Spruce Spirit Tree!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    If the deductive power of the White Spruce Spirit Tree was a hundred, then Lin Shiming''s was only one.


    But at this moment, as the White Spruce Spirit Tree fell into silence, he unexpectedly experienced a terrifying deductive power.


    Especially since he found that he could control the magnitude of this deductive power.


    Thus, Lin Shiming returned to his Spirit tform and started to draw upon this deductive power, letting it surge towards him.


    Instantly, Lin Shiming''s Spirit tform disyed an extremely dazzling spectacle.


    He was deducing the Grass Sword Art.


    As hisprehension began, he felt as though he were ced in a world of grass.


    Each de of grass, a cultivator!


    Each de of grass, a Divine Skill!


    In an instant, Lin Shiming found himself unable to move. Upon introspection, he found that he too had be a de of Spirit Grass.


    Yet, around him, the various Sword Intents of grass surged from the ground and cleaved towards the heavens!


    This scene was shockingly powerful!


    As his body and soul were immensely stirred, the seed of the Grass Sword Art within him seemed to be sprouting as well.


    The Sword Intent of grass arose at once!


    Hisprehension continued, but Lin Shiming worried that time was insufficient and thus drew upon another tenth.


    The Grass Swords around him multiplied, and hisprehension deepened.


    But it was still not enough!


    Lin Shiming then nced at Wan Qing and directly drew seven-tenths of his Spirit Light, leaving behind only a tenth.


    In the outside world, at this moment, everyone began to exim in shock.


    Especially Lin Xianzhi, Xie An, and others, seeing Lin Shiming''s Spirit tform now as dazzling as the scorching sun, were overjoyed beyond measure.


    And the Zi Xuan Hermit beside them, his pupils contracting slightly, was also clearly surprised by Lin Shiming. He, who originally intended to leave, took out some more Spiritual Tea and continued to brew it.


    Moreover, the Spiritual Tea he took out this time was even Fourth Rank.


    The Zi Xuan Hermit was clearly very content.

 Chapter 214 Suspicion

    At this moment, Wan Wuyin''splexion was at its most unsightly, only to see his face alternating between bright red and a purplish hue, a most peculiar sight indeed.


    Even though the members of the Lin Family did not speak, their eyes kept ncing over at him.


    It was as if they were looking at a clown!


    This, more than any spoken mockery, infuriated him further.


    Yet at this moment, he could not rebut, and could only swell up angrily, his chest heaving like an ugly toad.


    "The Lin Family is really something, that Spirit Light!"


    "Of course they are, the swordsmanship heprehended, I fear it won''t take many years for him to have a smooth journey on the path of Sword Dao!"


    "That''s natural, he is, after all, a registered disciple of the Zi Xuan Hermit!" In the viewing stands, people also started discussing, full of praise.


    Although they had previously held disdain, they had not opened their mouths in mockery, and now they spoke with full intent to praise.


    For cultivators, ttering the powerful has never been reserved; they hadn''t mocked before, and doing so now would not seem abrupt, nor would it cause them to blush.


    "Their Spirit Light is diminishing..." someone else discovered a shocking scene.


    "Maybe it''s because the Spirit Light of the Lin Family cultivator is too dazzling!" someone hesitated, voicing a guess.


    However, the next moment, Wan Qing''s Spirit tform suddenly became dim and lightless, on the verge of disappearing.


    "There''s someone who has finishedprehending!"


    "It''s Wan Qing of the Wanjian Sect!"


    At this moment, Wan Wuyin wished he could find a hole to burrow into.


    Disappearance of Spirit Light signifies the end ofprehension.


    Naturally, this does not mean enlightenment to perfection or early sess, but rather a sign of poorprehension, akin to Lin Shiming''s long inability to begin.


    Although this was Wan Wuyin''s first visit to the Spirit Beast Sect, they did not have the audacity to im they hadpleted theirprehension.


    With Wan Qing''s departure, the other cultivators continued their contemtion undisturbed.


    And Lin Shiming at this moment, was unaware of the whispers in the outside world.


    This moment, his vision was filled with various Grass Swords of Heaven-ying.


    The entire sky, like a falling curtain, was torn apart and shattered by the swords made of grass.


    Thunder rumbled on the horizon, seeming to punish these Grass Swords, but the next moment, they were relentlessly severed by countless Grass Swords.


    The thunder fell silent, turning into fragments of light, leaving only trails of sword marks hanging in the sky!


    That dense, unadulterated Sword Intent made Lin Shiming feel as if he stood amidst a Sword Tomb.


    And the Sword Intent in his mind was bing clearer by the moment, the sword seeds of the Grass Sword technique, like bamboo shoots after a spring rain, shooting up rapidly.


    "This sword, Heaven-ying!"


    A voice profound and inscrutable resonated in his mind, like the echo of the Great Dao, incessant, indelible.


    In the next moment, the multitude of Grass Swords began to recede, shrinking like a diminishing starry sky, those Grass Swords turning into points of light.


    And then, looking again.


    Arger Grass of Light swayed in the wind.


    Every sway was a sword strike.


    This time, it was slicing through the boundless starry sky!


    Slice!


    The next moment, the vision vanished, and Lin Shiming returned to the Spirit tform.


    At that moment, as he solidified his body once again, he was astonished by the dense Sword Intent that permeated his entire being, almost materializing into substance, and within it, he could faintly see the flow of Spirit Grass.


    This Sword Intent, he had felt it before from his Seventh Great-Uncle, only the Sword Intent on his ancestor still carried a hint of vagueness and had not yet congealed into actual Sword Light.


    "Could it be that I am not far from achieving Sword Light Transformation?" Lin Shiming murmured in sheer delight, knowing that prior to this, his understanding of Sword Intent had merely remained at the seed stage.


    Now, with the Sword Intent erupting vigorously, his whole body felt like a Grass Sword on the cusp of unleashing Heaven-ying power, ready at any moment to deliver a sword strike that could shake the heavens.


    Of course, unlike his Seventh Great-Uncle''s Green Lotus Sword Light, his Grass Sword technique ced an even greater emphasis on the might of a single sword strike.


    Lin Shiming struggled to keep the Sword Light restrained and the Sword Intent withdrawn, containing it all within the Sword Grass of his body.


    At the same time, his attention shifted to the root of deduction within his mind.


    He saw the half-inch root, now glowing brightly.


    This Spirit Root was his greatest gain, yet, when he used only this root of deduction, the deducing effect was much less than that of the White Pine Spirit Tree, and he discovered that the light of deduction would be consumed, unable to sustain indefinitely.


    Moving with divine intent, Lin Shiming allowed the root of deduction to slowly recede, and the next moment, it no longer emitted light, bing inward-looking within the sea of consciousness.


    Only then did he stand up to find that the other eight had, at some unknown point,pleted their enlightenment.


    The group seemed exceptionally excited, clearly very satisfied with the results of theirprehension.


    Of course, Wan Qing was an exception, as his expression was somewhat unsightly at this moment.


    As the nine hadpleted theirprehension, nine new branches emerged from the body of the White Pine Spirit Tree, sending each of them down from the tree.


    Hermit San Ye also stood up and led the group out.


    "Lin Young Friend, I wonder if you could spare a moment for a talkter!"


    Lin Shiming involuntarily changed his expression, sensing themunication within his mind, then turned toward the retreating figure of Hermit San Ye.


    As thetter led the way as usual, Lin Shiming was naturally anxious at the moment.


    He did not know whether Hermit San Ye meant to meet with every individual.


    But he could not refuse!


    Lin Shiming nodded his head to indicate his response, his heart filled with regret at that moment, yet at the same time, he thought that surely the White Pine Spirit Tree in deep seclusion knew nothing of what he had done, otherwise, it would never allow him to act so recklessly.


    Hermit San Ye, leading the nine, arrived at a grand hall and then spoke.


    "My young friends, you have now received the Nine-Leaf Dao Enlightenment from our Sect. The matter with the demonic sect is for now concluded, but you are still expected to fulfill a task within your capacities for our Sect in the next ten years. This will bemunicated to each of you in due time," Hermit San Ye stated indifferently.


    He then handed over the Spirit Contracts to be signed by each individual and affiliated with their respective Sects.


    Lin Shiming received the Spirit Contract, and finding it to be the Qing Xuan Spirit Contract with no other bindings apart from a single task, nodded and signed.


    Only then, with a wave of Hermit San Ye''s hand, did the group disperse one by one.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Only Lin Shiming hesitated for a moment, surprised that Hermit San Ye truly intended to speak with him alone!


    In that instant, his mind raced, reviewing the entire enlightenment process again.


    Should anything be discovered, he was certain that it was his slipup that had been noticed.


    In the face of such an ancient being now, he must understand where his oversighty to grasp even a sliver of advantage.


    "Lin Family Young Friend, may I ask if you have joined a Sect?" Hermit San Ye inquired casually.


    Hermit San Ye''s words instantly filled Lin Shiming with a bittersweet feeling.


    "Replying to the Hermit Senior, Shiming is a nominal disciple of Zi Xuan Hermit!"


    Lin Shiming answered honestly, his inner anxiety increasing even further. Hermit San Ye inviting him to join the Spirit Beast Sect was not a good sign.


    If it were any other Hermit, he might have been able to decline on the grounds of being Zi Xuan Hermit''s nominal disciple, but Hermit San Ye was evidently powerful, matching Zi Xuan Hermit and holding a significant position within the Spirit Beast Sect.


    "Oh, is that so? Then, young friend, could you tell me how you were able to draw upon the Enlightenment Spirit Light?"

 Chapter 215 Relief

    Lin Shiming was utterly horrified at this moment, his mind aplete mess.


    The San Ye Hermit''s gaze was piercing, a profound and mysterious Purple Mansion aura emerged unintentionally.


    It was like ten great mountains pressing down upon him.


    Continuously assaulting his inner defenses.


    Under such an aura, his breathing quickened, and a flush appeared on his face.


    He was certain that if his answer carried even a hint of doubt or any other emotion, the San Ye Hermit would definitely take action against him, if not soul searching, then using an Inquiry Spirit Talisman.


    Even more so!


    Even if his answer was perfect, there was still a possibility that the San Ye Hermit would hold him back.


    Cultivators seek the truth of the Great Dao and often stop at nothing; a Purple Mansion cultivator like the San Ye Hermit would care even less about what a Foundation Establishment cultivator like Lin Shiming thought or resented.


    In this tense moment, another figure appeared in the hall, with their voice preceding them:


    "Ji is still looking for his little disciple, never expected to find him here, thanks to Brother San Ye for taking time out of his busy schedule to instruct my little disciple!!!"


    The word "instruct" struck like Heavenly Thunder, deafening and enlightening!


    d in purple robes, a kindly face, like an unsheathed peerless immortal sword, sharp yet full of profound meaning.


    At this moment, Zi Xuan Hermit became Lin Shiming''s lifeline.


    San Ye Hermit''s expression changed, growing grim and somewhat frightening; he hadn''t expected Zi Xuan Hermit to arrive so quickly.


    "As for Brother San Ye''s question, Ji can answer it. My disciple naturally has atent Wood Attribute Spiritual Body and highprehension,municating with the Bai Shan Spirit Tree to enlighten the Spirit Light is also not a problem!" Zi Xuan Hermit spoke again.


    "I wonder if there are any more questions, the Heavenly Sword elder also enjoys resolving doubts!"


    Zi Xuan Hermit spoke again, this time bringing up the Heavenly Sword True Person.


    San Ye Hermit''s expression turned even uglier by a degree, casting another nce at Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming also quickly nodded; at this moment, he had no intention of pretending. In his view, he did have atent Wood Attribute Spiritual Body which, upon reaching the Purple Mansion, would naturallye with a Minor Divine Ability.


    Of course, at this moment, he was also guessing that the foundation of his deductions might be a part of his intrinsic Spiritual Body.


    Otherwise, how could it be that for all these years, the Spirit Beast Sect couldn''t discover the secret of the Bai Shan Spirit Tree?


    "Haha, Brother Ji, please don''t take offense, San Ye merely saw such a Sword Dao genius for the first time and truly had the intention of taking a disciple. Since he is your beloved disciple, San Ye hereby offers his apologies!" San Ye Hermit bowed repeatedly.


    He then moved to a table in the hall, took out a teapot, inviting with a smile.


    "Brother Ji, San Ye happens to have a pot of Fourth Rank ancient tea here, how about we savor it together!"


    Zi Xuan Hermit also smiled as he sat down to one side, then took out an exquisite wood-attributed box:


    "Very well, Ji also has a Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea, Purple Cloud Tea!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The two quickly began pouring their teas, and Lin Shiming stood beside Zi Xuan Hermit.


    San Ye Hermit poured ancient tea for Zi Xuan Hermit.


    And Lin Shiming, as a junior, held up the Purple Cloud Tea to pour for the two elders.


    Then he listened as the two sipped tea and made small talk.


    They seemed like old friends of many years, talking freely about amusing stories from a hundred years ago, their expressions amiable as they repeatedly toasted and exchanged drinks, invoking envy.


    To Lin Shiming, this scene was nothing unusual, for cultivators are the most unpredictable, and without conflicting interests, each is a respectable elder with high standing!


    Of course, at this moment, as he inhaled the fragrance of the tea, he felt the True Yuan within him beginning to stir.


    If he took a sip, perhaps his Cultivation Level would even surge slightly.


    The best tea he had ever drunk was only a Third Rank Spiritual Tea, but the one before him, with its marvelous tea mist, surpassed the previous ones by far, the wisps of light purple smoke profoundly captivating.


    It made him sigh with admiration, truly worthy of a Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea.


    The mystique within, indescribable in words.


    Of course, at this moment, he also thought of his own Mingxin Tea Tree. With the aid of Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid, his Mingxin Tea Tree could be a Third Rank Spirit Tree, its effects and vor certain to be even more superior.


    After a session of tea tasting, the Zi Xuan Hermit made his exit with Lin Shiming in tow.


    Without a word from the Zi Xuan Hermit, Lin Shiming naturally could only follow; the two of them walked at a leisurely pace, slowly making their way to the Zi Xuan Hermit''s cave abode.


    Soon after, the Zi Xuan Hermit took his seat in the main hall.


    "How goes your sword technique cultivation?"


    "Reporting to Master, Sword Intent has been achieved!" Lin Shiming waved his hand and pointed toward the sky.


    A ray of sword light materialized, its Sword Intent vast and pointing directly into the void.


    Moreover, within the sword light, it was obvious that there were strands of Spirit Grass, nearly taking form.


    "Good, good! Good!"


    "Not bad!" The Zi Xuan Hermit uttered three ''goods'' in session, followed by ''not bad'', with an extremely broad smile.


    "Shiming, when I first took you as my disciple, it was partly because of your family''s honorable ancestor, and partly because your seventh great-uncle implored bitterly. But it was precisely that decision which has resulted in the fine jade you are today!"


    "Do you wish to take me as your Master and join the sect for cultivation? Not only can you choose any Cultivation Technique freely, but I will also protect the Lin Family for fifty years! With your Spiritual Body and talent, reaching Golden Core is indeed possible in the foreseeable future!"


    Lin Shiming was somewhat stunned this time; he had not expected the Zi Xuan Hermit to consider taking him as a Direct Disciple.


    "Thank you for your kind intentions, Master, but Shiming has been under the family''s protection since childhood and has already taken on the role of Family Head. Moreover, I have pledged an oath before the ancestral spirit to bring glory to the family, so this matter..." After finishing his response, Lin Shiming deeply bowed his head.


    "Your answer is really no different from Xianzhi!" the Zi Xuan Hermit said with a flick of his sleeve, showing some dissatisfaction before taking another sip of Spiritual Tea.


    "Since the first option is not feasible, I won''t keep anything from you. You should be aware of Xianzhi''s affair, right? He retrieved the Soul Summoning Sword from the Myriad Swords Tomb, not only obtaining a portion of the Purple Mansion Jade Liquid but also a piece of the Fourth Rank Spirit Fruit known as the Longevity Fruit, which can extend one''s life by fifty years!"


    As soon as the Zi Xuan Hermit finished his words, Lin Shiming was instantly shocked.


    His eyes also sparkled with light.


    The shock was because of the Zi Xuan Hermit''s forthrightness.


    At the same time, if he had been hesitant about entering the Profound Grade Secret Realm before, he was now resolute.


    They still had the recipe for Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, but thetter, the Longevity Fruit, could prolong his seventh great-uncle''s life, aiding him in hopeful advancement to the Purple Mansion.


    Of course, he was also clear on what the Soul Summoning Sword signified.


    With the System prompts avable, he was confident in making the right decision.


    "Thank you, Master!" Lin Shiming bowed once again.


    "Whether or not you ept, I shall protect the Lin Family for fifty years," said the Zi Xuan Hermit, nodding as Lin Shiming showed no intent to refuse.


    "If there''s nothing else, you may leave; they must be anxious by now!"


    "Yes, Master!" Lin Shiming bowed once more.


    "Ah, right, here''s the remaining bit of Spiritual Tea; take it with you as well!"


    Lin Shiming was overjoyed, he had not expected the Zi Xuan Hermit to give him the small remaining portion of the Fourth Rank Purple Cloud Tea.


    To the Purple Mansion Loose, these teas might be of lesser value, but to Lin Shiming, this Spiritual Tea could save him years of arduous cultivation.


    Lin Shiming solemnly ced the Jade Box filled with Spiritual Tea away, then exited the cave abode!

 Chapter 216 The Secret of the Secret Realm

    Emerging from the hermitage of Purple Mansion Loose Hermit, as they reached the foot of the mountain, they bumped into Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan.


    At this moment, it was clear that everyone had breathed a sigh of relief.


    Joy finally appeared in their eyes.


    From the initial disappointment, to the subsequent excitement, and then to the concern after being told that Lin Shiming had been left behind alone.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Father, I made you worry!" Lin Shiming bowed to each of them in turn, recognizing the genuine concern in the faces of the three men before him.


    "Good, as long as you''re alright!" Lin Houyuan was also relieved.


    Lin Xianzhi and Xie An nodded as well.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Elder Brother, Shiming''s opportunity this time was thanks to your good fortune. Why don''t we go to Laiyue Tower today and try the spirit banquet of Jiuye City?" Lin Shiming invited warmly.


    Moreover, with the hostilitiesing to a pause, Xie An too felt somewhat unrestrained and readily agreed.


    As they traveled together, Lin Houyuan also told funny stories about Wan Wuyin and Wan Qing.


    After their Dao Enlightenment ended, Wan Qing even went to question the deacon of the Spirit Beast Sect, only to be tly rejected and left with a disheveled departure.


    Lin Shimingughed off the story, not expecting Wan Qing toin not to San Ye Hermit but to the deacon instead.


    However, Wan Qing probably really thought at first that hisprehension wasn''t enough, and after hearing Wan Wuyin''s ount, he inquired tentatively to save face.


    That deacon had utmost confidence in the sect''s White Spruce Spirit Tree, so how could he listen to his nonsense, let alone give Wan Qing any good treatment?


    Upon arriving at Laiyue Tower, Lin Shiming opened two private rooms: one for himself and the other three Foundation Establishment cultivators, and the remaining one for Lin Yuqing and the other Qi Cultivators.


    The delicacies at the Laiyue Tower of the Spirit Beast Sect,pared to those in Qingxuan City, were richer and varied in more types of spiritual cuisine.


    Although the four had refrained from grains for many years, they were extremely interested in these spiritual cuisines bursting with spiritual energy.


    Even some Third Rank spiritual cuisine could be of great help to their current cultivation levels.


    Seeing that the three elders were enjoying their meal, Lin Shiming did not hesitate to bring out a jade box.


    As soon as the box appeared, infinite rosy light shone, and a crisp, rich tea fragrance filled the entire room.


    It surpassed all the spiritual cuisine on the table.


    "This is..." Xie An''s eyes lit up, soon followed by immense shock.


    "This is the Spiritual Tea, Purple Cloud Tea, bestowed upon us by our master," Lin Shiming said with a faint smile.


    He then took out some Third Rank Spirit Water, boiled it until it bubbled, and sprinkled just the right amount of Spiritual Tea into the teapot, gently swishing it around.


    "Shiming, this tea is far too precious. If one were stuck at a bottleneck in Foundation Establishment, drinking this tea could loosen the bottleneck by a third!" Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan had not yet realized what it was, simply feeling the tea''s astonishing spiritual energy, which even emanated a greenish glow.


    But Xie An knew that this Purple Cloud Tea was not only a Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea but also a tea that only Heavenly Sword Peak of the Qingxuan Sect had. Even for Zi Xuan Hermit, there wasn''t much in a ten-year portion.


    "Let''s drink my Spiritual Tea instead!" Xie An carefully took out another tea box, the tea within also richly aromatic, but both the spiritual energy and aroma were noticeably inferior to the Purple Cloud Tea.


    "Elder Brother, this Purple Cloud Tea is scarce, and keeping it would be of no use. Let''s enjoy it together. Besides, this reward from Master is specifically for earning our ces!" Lin Shiming shook his head, poured a cup for Xie An, then for his seventh great-uncle, his father, and finally, one for himself.


    At this Dao Enlightenment conference, Xie An had been of considerable help. Additionally, regarding the Dragon Blood Pill, Lin Shiming felt that he owed Xie An a favor.


    Seeing the tea ready, Xie An did not say more but even showed some anticipation.


    The few of them grasped their tea and almost simultaneously lifted their cups, using tea in ce of wine.


    Once all three had begun, Lin Shiming also took a gentle sip of the Spiritual Tea, and the fragrant aroma lingered on his lips and teeth.


    He only felt a surge of astonishing Spiritual Energy rush into his lungs, and then spread throughout his body.


    At that moment, his True Yuan, like a furnace ignited, rotated the Purple Wood Heart Sutra automatically.


    All of them were incredibly shocked and hurriedly channeled their cultivation techniques to refine the Spiritual Tea. Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea, far beyond their imaginations.


    Even a small sip had dyed them for three to four hours.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi nearly awakened at the same time, while Lin Houyuan was still closing his eyes, evidently still in the process of refining the tea.


    "Senior Brother, I am still somewhat confused about the journey to the Profound Grade Secret Realm five years from now. Could Senior Brother enlighten me?" After the tea tasting, Lin Shiming asked about the matter at hand.


    Though he had heard much about the Profound Grade Secret Realm, he still had limited understanding.


    Upon hearing this, Xie An''s rxed expression tightened somewhat before he spoke softly,


    "Shiming, since you''ve asked about this, it must be the Sect Master who has invited you to join. Then, as your Senior Brother, I will not keep you in the dark."


    "Our Qingxuan Sect actually controls four Profound Grade Secret Realms: Heavenly Sword Peak, Shen Ji Peak, and Xuan Body Peak, each with one. However, these three Profound Grade Secret Realms are not open to outsiders. It is thest Profound Grade Secret Realm that matters, and it is the one that cultivators from your family n have a chance to enter!"


    "Additionally, in five years, the three major sects might all enter this Secret Realm!"


    "Thest Profound Grade Secret Realm can even be said not to be a Profound Grade Secret Realm, but rather a half Earth Grade Secret Realm, or even a Secret Realm of a great world!"


    "Because within this Secret Realm, there lies a connection to a minor world!"


    Upon this revtion, both Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming''s eyes involuntarily tensed.


    "Within this minor world, there are Fourth Rank Purple Mansion Great Demons, and not just one. Most importantly, our Purple Mansion cultivators cannot enter!"


    Upon these words, Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi realized why Xie An had such an expression.


    Such a minor world, if one is not careful enough, one might not only fail to acquire treasures but even struggle to exit with their life.


    "Of course, if one is cautious, one can be safe and the gains will be much more than usual!"


    "However, as a family n member, most of whom are Purple Mansion cultivators and registered disciples, entering the Secret Realm will be task-ridden, and to acquire true treasures, one almost has to enter the minor world."


    "The gains of sect disciples must be handed over to the sect, while the gains of registered disciples must be turned over to their respective Purple Mansion masters!"


    ...


    Xie An provided detailed exnations, and Lin Shiming listened with extreme care, as his intent to partake in the expedition to the Profound Grade Secret Realm was unwavering.


    He also had a major advantage ¨C he possessed the Cave Heaven World. with it, he could keep arge portion of the treasures for himself.


    Especially the main ingredient for Purple Mansion Jade Liquid, which was also why he had infused his family''s Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein into the Cave Heaven World ¨C to facilitate the transntation of Spiritual Medicine.


    The Myriad Swords Tomb was also bing somewhat clear before him.


    ording to Qingxuan Sect''s high-level analysis, that minor world was the heritage site of a Nascent Soul Sect, and Myriad Swords Tomb was their Sword Storing Mountain.


    But for some unknown reason, that sect had fallen, leaving only a passage to the Profound Grade Secret Realm.

 Chapter 217 Lin Shitaos Choice

    The arcane secrets of the Profound Grade Secret Realm shook Lin Shiming to his core.


    Moreover, he had a vague hunch that the great war between good and evil in Zhao Kingdom and Chu Country might also be connected to the Profound Grade Secret Realm.


    But such high-level secrets were beyond his ability to conclusively discern.


    However, for this Secret Realm, he had to make ample preparations.


    After the feast of spiritual delights, Xie An took his leave, as the cultivators of Qingxuan Sect had already begun to retreat. As a deacon, he was also swamped with affairs.


    And the Lin Family also needed to start organizing their gains and return to Fangmu Mountain in Yunzhou.


    It was a good half-hour after Xie An''s departure that Lin Houyuan finally woke up.


    Upon awakening, the fluctuations of his Spirit Might became erratic, which greatly delighted Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming.


    This fluctuation of Spirit Might was a sign that Lin Houyuan''s True Yuan was finally starting to condense.


    The Foundation Establishment Middle Stage could take as short as five years or as long as ten!


    Furthermore, it''s worth noting that the Lin Family currently possesses a not insignificant amount of Superior Grade Spirit Stones, just waiting to return to Fangmu Mountain for Lin Houyuan to attempt a breakthrough in seclusion.


    "I''ve embarrassed myself in front of Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Houyuan, realizing how long he had been cultivating, showed an embarrassed face.


    Four cultivators had sat down to eat together, and yet he alone had been absorbed in cultivation.


    "There''s nothing embarrassing about it. This Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea truly has excellent effects. Go back and cultivate with Spirit Stones. Strive for an early breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage!" Lin Xianzhi said nonchntly, then gave Lin Shiming another look.


    Because they had both consumed the same amount of Spiritual Tea, he had awakened at the same time as Lin Shiming.


    However, he suspected that Lin Shiming had actuallye to his senses earlier, and was merely being considerate of his face as his Seventh Great-Uncle.


    "Shiming, you handle the family''s purchases. Ten days from now, we will set off to return to the Lin Family!" Lin Xianzhi instructed.


    Lin Shiming nodded in agreement at this instruction.


    Of the forty people from the Lin Family who came, fewer than fifteen survived. It could be considered a pyrrhic victory.


    But the harvest was not small; first, he broke through to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, Lin Houyuan was also showing signs of reaching the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage, and most importantly, three Dragon Blood Pills are still left from this time.


    If Lin Houshou can break through to Foundation Establishment, then there is a possibility for other younger generation cultivators in the family to do so as well.


    In addition to that, Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei, the two potential seeds for Foundation Establishment, could also break through at any time.


    What surprised him was that Lei Xuan had also suddenly broken through to the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and had started refining his Spiritual Energy.


    As a son-inw who had performed well in an earlier instance, the Lin Family had to prepare a Foundation Establishment Pill for him as well.


    Now, the three Foundation Establishment Pills from the auction were proving not to be enough.


    The remaining survivors like Lin Shiyun, Lin Houyuan, and others had all made a breakthrough in a minor stage.


    With the news of departure spreading, the Lin Family took the opportunity to give all the cultivators a day off, allowing them to freely purchase what they needed in Jiuye City.


    Lin Shiming, in particr, bought arge number of rare Spiritual Medicine seeds from the local Spirit Beast Sect.


    Most of these seeds were naturally meant for the cultivation by the family''s Spirit nt Masters, with only a small part for his own cultivation.


    Counting the Spirit nts he needed to cultivate, he already had a significant number: Minor Divine Ability tree, Golden Thunder Bamboo, Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree, in addition to the Poisonous Dragon Vine, Purple Gold Vine, Green Snake Vine he had acquired, and the recently obtained Tribtion Forging Divine Flower.


    Half a monthter, a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Boat slowly lifted off from Jiuye City, heading northwest.


    ...


    Fangmu Mountain, shrouded in clouds and mist.


    Lin Shiming sat on the Spirit Boat, facing the cutting wind, and found even the wind more familiar.


    Lin Shiyi, Lin Houshou, Lin Houyong, and others all made their way to the edge of the Spirit Boat.


    Having seen thousands of mountains and rivers, nonepared to Fangmu Mountain.


    Even the Seventh Great-Uncle, Lin Xianzhi, emerged from the Spirit Boat with a trace of a smile at the corner of his mouth:


    "Shiming has opened the entire Spirit Shield of the Spirit Boat, letting everyone breathe in the spiritual energy of our family''s mountain!"


    "Sure!" Lin Shiming answered with a smile.


    As the Spirit Shield was opened, the gales howled in, and several of the Shi generation spread their arms wide.


    With the emergence of the Spirit Boat, the cultivators on Fangmu Mountain clearly sensed its presence, asyer uponyer of mist unfolded.


    All of Fangmu Mountain unfolded before everyone''s eyes.


    The slopes were covered in a riot of purples and reds from peach blossoms, and family members bustled about on Spirit Mountain.


    The vast Qinglian Lake teemed with Red Spirit Fish, with many cultivators catching them, while nearby, Blood Crocodiles prowled quietly beneath the surface of the water.


    At the training grounds, numerous young cultivators practiced their techniques, exuding vigor like the rising sun over the eastern mountains, bringing endless vitality to the entire range.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Yet, strangely, the high-level cultivators of Fangmu Mountain were few and far between.


    Lin Houyong was not there, Lin Yutie was not there, nor was Lin Shitao.


    Then, the next moment, Lin Houxuan flew out.


    At this moment, Lin Houxuan''s face was etched with the signs of age, most striking of all being his hair, now white at the temples, making him look significantly older.


    "He failed!" Lin Shiming and the others instantly noticed Lin Houxuan''s aura; he was still at thetter stages of Qi Cultivation, his spiritual energy extremely refined, but ultimately not enough for the Foundation Establishment Stage.


    And the failure to break through to Foundation Establishment had dealt him no small blow.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Ninth Brother, Family Head!" Lin Houxuan greeted each in turn, though his tone was notably less confident than before.


    His failed breakthrough and his age, now nearly sixty, meant not only would he have to recover from his injuries, but the family would also not likely allocate another Foundation Establishment Pill to him.


    "What about Fifth Uncle?" Lin Shiming asked.


    When he had left, he had entrusted all of Lingnan County to his elder brother Lin Shijie, and the affairs of Fangmu Mountain to his Fifth Uncle, Lin Houyong.


    "A group of Gold Devouring Rats has infested our family''s Golden Iron Stone mines, including several Third Rank Spirit Rats, and their numbers are growing, threatening the mortals of our family in Lingnan!"


    "Both Fifth Uncle and Fourth Uncle have already gone there!"


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, I''ll take care of this matter!" Lin Shiming turned to Lin Xianzhi and said.


    With the war concluded, it was time for the Lin Family to focus on development, and the Golden Iron Stone mine was a major source of revenue that couldn''t fall prey to those unintelligent Gold Devouring Rats.


    "Hm!" Lin Xianzhi nodded.


    "Family Head, you''ve reached the middle stage of Foundation Establishment!" Lin Houxuan said with obvious astonishment.


    It was known that Lin Shijie, a dual Spirit Root cultivator, was just at the peak of the early stage of Foundation Establishment, having only recently started condensing True Yuan.


    "Yes, I was lucky to break through," Lin Shiming nodded, quite satisfied with his journey.


    He not only understood the root of deduction but also acquired the Grass Character Sword Technique and the Essence of Grass Sword Intent, in addition to gaining a Cave Heaven World, several Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts, and a vast amount of Spirit Stones.


    "Right, Family Head, you should see Shitao!" Lin Houxuan suddenly remembered something.


    "What''s wrong with Shitao?" Lin Shiming asked, feeling a sudden knot in his stomach.


    "Shitao chose to go into solitary cultivation for Foundation Establishment without using a Foundation Establishment Pill!"


    "What, that''s reckless!" Lin Shiming was momentarily irritated, quickly inquiring about Lin Shitao''s location for solitary cultivation.


    Both Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan''s expressions turned grim.


    Lin Shitao, a dual Spirit Root cultivator supposed to use a Foundation Establishment Pill for a surefire sess, was taking an unnecessary risk.


    Not to mention, Lin Shitao was only around thirty-five years old; without the pill, should the attempt fail, it was highly possible she could fall!

 Chapter 218 The Wood Demon Who Loves to Watch Lightning

    At Qinglian Pool''s pavilion, Lin Shiming stood alongside Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyuan.


    Next to Lin Shiming''s cave dwelling atop Qinglian Mountain, a new abode had appeared.


    The massive characters for "Peach Seven Pavilion" were especially eye-catching.


    Inside the cave dwelling, calm pervaded, and the Spirit Might was not prominent.


    Nevertheless, the group could still sense the faint vitality within, aware that Lin Shitao had not yet reached the breakthrough.


    "Uncle Eleven, how many years has Shitao been in seclusion?" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but ask with concern.


    "Two years!" Lin Houxuan said carefully from the side.


    "This is nonsense, without a Foundation Establishment Pill, how can one achieve a breakthrough!" Lin Xianzhi was also somewhat angry at this moment.


    Lin Houxuan was even more terrified.


    Within Fangmu Mountain, the Yu generation wascking, and with him being the oldest of the Hou generation, it was naturally his fault for not stopping it.


    At this moment, Lin Houxuan was also filled with regret; having failed at Foundation Establishment himself, he had lost heart for managing family affairs for quite some time.


    It was Lin Shitao, who had broken through to the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, who took on the operation of the entire family and even crafted elixirs.


    In the end, due to the family''sck of Foundation Establishment Cultivators, she directly chose to attempt a breakthrough in seclusion without a Foundation Establishment Pill.


    By the time he realized it, Lin Shitao had already entered seclusion, and it was toote for him to stop her.


    "I beg Seventh Great-Uncle and the Family Head for punishment!" Lin Houxuan suddenly knelt down; if he had caused the family to lose a dual Spirit Root Cultivator¡ªa potential third-rank Alchemist¡ªthen he would truly be a sinner.


    "Uncle Eleven, rise. I believe in her!"


    Lin Shiming suddenly spoke, and all eyes turned to him.


    Yet they saw that, at this moment, Lin Shiming''s gaze was extraordinarily determined, and very serious.


    "When I brought her over from Peach Blossom Town, everyone thought she was a girl not so strong!" Lin Shiming murmured to himself with a smile.


    Then he recalled how Lin Shitao chose to tend the Peach Blossom Forest and eventually became an Alchemist, even ascending to be the elder sister to all the Alchemy apprentices.


    That girl who became the strongest female Cultivator of their generation had already made it a reality.


    Lin Shiming walked over to the pavilion, where the stone table no longer bore a chessboard; it had been put away by the Seventh Great-Uncle more than a decade ago when he left the mountain.


    Lin Shiming then took out a vertical harp and began to y.


    Just as Lin Shitao had yed the harp for him in practice back in the day, today he yed the harp to clear the way for her.


    The sound of the harp rose, not particrly melodious¡ªhe was, after all, only a second-tier musician.


    But his harp music contained his Great Dao, filled with his yearning for longevity...


    Lin Shiming didn''t even realize that, at this moment, his root of extraption was spontaneously emitting Spirit Light, bathing him in its glow.


    This imbued his harp music with deeper meaning, and even Lin Xianzhi was quite moved at this moment.


    They couldn''t understand or grasp it, but they were shaken by the Dao contained in it.


    The harp music carried far and sounded for a long time.


    At dusk, the sky gradually darkened.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Just as on that day when the peach blossoms slowly fell.


    And within the cave dwelling, suddenly, a surge of Spirit Might rolled forth mightily.


    "Shitao is about to seed!" Everyone was overjoyed.


    Lin Shiming also stopped, as a melody emerged in his mind, a melody that contained his heart''s pursuit of the Dao.


    It was his root of deduction, enhanced by spiritual power, and what made himugh and cry was that this melody had exhausted all the deductive power of his root of deduction. He knew that he had not used his own power of deduction at the Dao Enlightenment Spirit tform.


    It would take at least several years for these deductive powers to recover.


    "This melody shall be named ''Inquiry of the Dao without Regrets,''" Lin Shiming shook his head slightly and continued to gaze into the depths of the cave dwelling, where Lin Shitao''s spirit might was growing stronger.


    A surge of spirit might unique to True Yuan emanated, and the hearts of the people finally rxed considerably.


    For cultivators under sixty, the hardest part of achieving Foundation Establishment is the condensation of True Yuan. Now that True Yuan is formed, the barrier of Qi and blood is basically not an issue.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, I shall depart for Lingnan County right away. Please take care of Shitao for me!" Lin Shiming collected his zither and stood up.


    "No problem, and when you go to Lingnan County to exterminate rats, take Houxuan with you!" Lin Xianzhi nodded, but as he looked at Lin Houxuan, he added.


    Clearly, Lin Xianzhi was somewhat dissatisfied with Lin Houxuan; otherwise, with his identity as a Third Rank alchemist, he wouldn''t have been tasked with exterminating rats.


    Naturally, Lin Houxuan had no objection, as it was his own fault from the beginning.


    Lin Shiming didn''t say more.


    However, he returned to the cave dwelling first and took the Minor Divine Ability tree, the Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree, and the Golden Thunder Bamboo all into his Cave Heaven World.


    To his delight, the Minor Divine Ability tree had grown a bit taller, its growth evidently good, the Heavenly Spirit Fruit tree was also about to bloom, and probably after another decade or so, it would bear fruit for once, and the changes to the Golden Thunder Bamboo were big as well.


    The Golden Thunder Bamboo was now two to three meters tall, clearly aged over thirty years.


    After confirming that all spirit nts were safe, Lin Shiming turned his attention to the wood demon and the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    The wood demon seemed to be lounging leisurely, itsrge tree face appearing much younger. When Lin Shiming entered, he found it had taken out a small wooden stool and was upying a considerable amount of spirit soil, sucking the spiritual veins of Fangmu Mountain while watching the thunder on the Golden Thunder Bamboo sh continuously with utmost leisure.


    It even made clicking sounds that Lin Shiming couldn''t understand.


    When the wood demon noticed Lin Shiming''s return, it seemed surprised, but quickly became indifferent. Having signed a Spirit Contract with Lin Shiming, it wasn''t afraid of him.


    Lin Shiming was oddly curious about this tea tree that watches thunder, but he still took it into his Cave Heaven World.


    The Mingxin Tea Tree seemed ufortable with moving, but upon seeing the Golden Thunder Bamboo also moved in, it continued to watch the lightning on the Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    This left Lin Shiming speechless for a while.


    Lin Shiming took out the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid, and the tea tree wood demon''s eyes swiveled to it immediately, sending waves of desire through its Divine Sense.


    Without hesitation, Lin Shiming gave the Mu Xin Spiritual Liquid to it.


    The wood demon drank it down in one gulp as if chewing peony like a cow, and then continued to watch the Golden Thunder Bamboo as if nothing had happened.


    It showed little interest in other matters, and even when Lin Shiming asked for its life-bound Spiritual Tea, it just pointed in a direction. On its main body, there were already many life-bound Spiritual Teas, umted over the past decade or so.


    Lin Shiming was even more puzzled, but, recalling the urgent need for the family''s iron ore, he left the Cave Heaven World.


    By the time he reached the family''s Martial Arts Hall, Lin Yuqing, Lin Houxuan, Lin Shiyi, Lin Houwei, and Lin Houshou were all there; almost everyone who had returned from the big battle was present.


    Aside from Lin Houxuan, there was also Lin Shilei, the youngest of the Shi generation.


    Lin Yuqingughed heartily because, at that moment, Lin Shilei had reached the Qi Cultivation Eighth Level. At twenty-two years old, Qi Cultivation Eighth Level, he almost matched Lin Shiming''s abilities and was definitely a Lin Family prodigy, possessing a Thunder Spirit Root.


    Such a Spirit Root, truly worthy of being just below the Heavenly Spirit Root, had incredibly strong talent.


    With such a speed of cultivation, he might break through to Foundation Establishment before thirty.

 Chapter 219 Spiritual Tea Transformation

    The Qingyun mountain range, Qingshi Ridge, in thete spring, the mountains were covered with white mountain tea flowers, adding a ssh of brightness to the stony ridge.


    Bees buzzed among the flowers, busily flitting to and fro.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    However, at this moment, beneath the mountain ridge, several cultivators rushed into a tunnel, only to suddenly find that the cultivators who were mining had fallen, and at the exit was a huge rat hole.


    It was Lin Shijie, Lin Yutie, Lin Houyong, and other members of the Lin Family.


    Their faces clearly showed displeasure, especially Lin Shijie, who was clenching his fists at this moment.


    "Uncle Five, we must y that Gold Devouring Rat King, or else we will have to stop mining!"


    "Hmm!" Lin Houyong nodded in agreement, but the thought of facing that Third Rank Intermediate Grade Demonic Rat which never confronted them directly just gave him a headache.


    These Gold Devouring Rats initially only stole from the Golden Iron Stone veins.


    What was vile was that, after they had in a few Second Rank Qi Refinement Demonic Rats, the Rat King led its kind in retaliating against their cultivators.


    Given the utmost importance of the Golden Iron Stone veins, the Lin Family assigned those in the early stages of Qi Cultivation to mine them.


    Because of the Gold Devouring Rats'' interference, not only was safe mining impossible, but many family cultivators also fell. To make things worse, these rats were extremely cunning; they never encountered the Foundation Establishment cultivators, leading their offspring in and out quickly after stealing and attacking the Qi Refinement disciples.


    More so, they had no pattern to their attacks. Even when the area was covered by Formations, they would still manage to get through by gnawing their way in with their indestructible teeth.


    And underground, one''s Divine Sense was greatly hindered.


    "It''s a pity Shiming isn''t here. With him and the two Third Rank spiritual beasts, we could definitely kill this demonic rat!" Lin Shijie couldn''t help but sigh as he thought of someone.


    It wasn''t just that they couldn''t catch up to the Gold Devouring Rat King; they also didn''t possess the power to instantly kill a Third Rank Gold Devouring Rat King. Although the Rat King wasn''t good at attacking, its defense was astonishingly strong.


    Both of them being at the early stage of Foundation Establishment, theycked the strength even to harm it, let alone form a battle formation.


    In the void, a Spirit Light arrived.


    Lin Shiyun received the Spirit Light¡ªit was a Transmission Talisman:


    "Goodd, you''ve hit the nail on the head!"


    Lin Houyong couldn''t help but smile, then, leading a few people, he walked toward the spacious mine tunnel, soon arriving at arge hall.


    Compared to before, this hall had been greatly erged and was now named Stone Ridge Cave.


    At the entrance of Stone Ridge Cave, Lin Shiming and his group were already waiting on one side.


    "Uncle Five, big brother!" Lin Shiming greeted with a smile.


    It had been over a decade since theyst met; big brother Lin Shijie was as resolute as always, and Uncle Five even more distinguished.


    "Family Head!" Lin Houyong and Lin Shijie hurriedly responded, then they turned to Lin Yuqing and said:


    "Uncle!"


    "Great-grandfather!"


    "Come, let''s go inside and talk," Lin Houyong led everyone into a stone chamber of the stone hall, while Lin Shiming once again surveyed this underground cave.


    Speaking of which, it was Shiming who had discovered this cave with the Golden Winged Mantis back then. The central stone pool was now nted with numerous spiritual flowers.


    "Shiming, your arrival is timely, that Gold Devouring Rat King is truly bothersome. The three of us together should be able to y it!" Lin Houyong excitedly stated. However, in the next moment, he noticed that Lin Shiming''s entire aura of Spirit Might had greatly increased since hest saw him, and he could no longer see through his cultivation level:


    "Shiming, you''ve reached the middle stage of Foundation Establishment?"


    "Fortuitously!" Lin Shiming sped his hands together, causing several people at the site to sigh with emotion, with Lin Shijie feeling a tinge of envy.


    You should know, he possessed twin Spirit Roots, and there was still some time before he could condense his True Yuan and make a breakthrough to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment.


    As for Lin Houyong, breaking through to Foundation Establishment seemed to have drained all his talent, and at this moment, he was just starting to solidify the early stage of Foundation Establishment.


    "Then there will be even fewer problems!" Lin Houyong was overjoyed, then his expression turned serious as he revealed an issue:


    "Shiming, with the appearance of a Third Rank Gold Devouring Rat this time, I suspect that the vein below might have a deposit of Third Rank Golden Iron Stone. It''s just a pity that we can''t arrange for cultivators to extract it..."


    Lin Shiming nodded; considering what his fifth uncle had said, there really might be a deposit of Third Rank Golden Iron Stone, or else it wouldn''t have attracted a Third Rank Gold Devouring Rat.


    "Fifth Uncle, since the Gold Devouring Rat was driven away today, let''s rest for a while!" Lin Shiming spoke again, and then took out some rare Spiritual Tea he had harvested from the Mingxin Tea Tree itself.


    He proceeded to brew a pot for all the Qi Cultivators present.


    There were quite a few Mingxin Tea Trees on Fangmu Mountain, which, incidentally, were brought back by Lin Houwei and Lin Shitao and the others.


    It''s just that the king of the Mingxin Tea Trees had always been in Lin Shiming''s cave abode, untouched by anyone.


    The fragrance of the Mingxin Tea was exceptionally rich, and as Spiritual Tea from the tree king, it was even more pronounced.


    Moreover, the Tea Tree Wood Demon had been observing the Golden Thunder Bamboo, and a deep and ineffable difference had manifested in the tea as well.


    "Thank you, Family Head!" Lin Houxuan, Lin Shiyun, Lin Shilei, Lin Houyong, and others all expressed their gratitude.


    Oddly enough, Lin Shiming did not pour tea for Lin Houyong and Lin Shijie, the two Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    Their expressions didn''t change though, as they were now at the Foundation Establishment stage: drinking Second Rank Spiritual Tea wouldn''t have much effect anyhow, but they still felt somewhat empty-handed for a moment.


    "Don''t worry, Fifth Uncle, Big Brother, you have yours too!" Lin Shiming said with a gentle smile, then he took out a jade box.


    He brewed another pot of new Spiritual Tea. As the purple leaves fell, the entire hall seemed to surge with Spiritual Energy, and the fragrance that wafted through the air made the entire atmosphere saturate with the aroma of the tea.


    "Is this...?" Both of their expressions shifted, and they started to breathe a little more swiftly.


    "Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea, rewarded by the Zi Xuan Hermit!" Lin Shiming answered calmly.


    The entire stock of Qi Xuan Tea wasn''t plentiful, enough for only two brews. Lin Shiming had already consumed it once before, with excellent results. His father had even begun to condense his True Yuan, which is why Lin Shiming felt that this Qi Xuan Tea was greatly beneficial for condensing True Yuan.


    "This is too precious!" Lin Houyong became visibly agitated, then reached for the teapot of Mingxin Tea.


    "Fifth Uncle, this is exactly what I was saving for you. My father and my seventh granduncle have both drunk it!" Lin Shiming said with a smile, continuing to pour a cup for each of them.


    After drinking, both of them instantly sat down tensely and began to meditate right there.


    Lin Shiming also poured himself a cup and drank it all at once.


    The aroma of the tea still permeated the air, but at this moment, Lin Shiming also noticed that the effect of the second sip was somewhat lessened, and there was no need for immediate refinement; however, the help it provided to Cultivation Level was still tremendous. If he could refine itpletely, it could spare him years of arduous cultivation.


    The Qi Cultivators of the Lin Family also saw the Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea, naturally feeling envious, but they dared not drink Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea. For a Qi Cultivator to drink Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea wasn''t to improve cultivation¡ªit was to court death. They simply couldn''t refine such immense Spiritual Energy.


    Moreover, the Supreme Grade Mingxin Tea was already incredibly precious. The scent of the tea was lingering and eternal, leaving a refreshing aftertaste!


    However, what surprised everyone was seeing Lin Shilei and Lin Houxuan also begin to sit cross-legged, activating their cultivation techniques and circting their qi through their meridians!


    One must know, the Mingxin Tea Tree didn''t have such a profound effect!

 Chapter 220 Golden Iron Crystal (Thanks to Ruyi Langjun0 for the reward)

    At this moment, Lin Shiming was also watching Lin Shilei and Lin Houxuan with quite a bit of surprise. In his heart, he had some guesses about why Lin Shilei would be like this.


    The transformation of the Mingxin Tea Tree was obviously influenced by observing the Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    But what he did not expect was that Lin Houxuan, who was at the peak of Qi Cultivation Ninth Level, would have such a breakthrough as well, especially since his failed attempt at the Foundation Establishment had left him with no small seque.


    Now, seeing his excited yet solemn expression, it was clear that his injuries had greatly improved.


    After a while, Lin Shilei was the first to wake up. At this moment, his face was full of excitement:


    "Grandfather, Family Head, this Spiritual Tea even contains a hint of thunder attribute Spiritual Energy, which is of great help to me!"


    "If it helps a lot, you can drink a few more cups. I will also ce a portion in the Treasure Pavilion in the future!" Lin Shiming said, noting also that Lin Shilei had just broken through to the eighthyer of Qi Cultivation, and his Spiritual Energy was not that stable, but now it seemed to bepletely solidified, with obvious effects.


    He himself would keep some of this Mingxin Tea, but more of it would be ced in the family''s Treasure Pavilion.


    It would be avable for family cultivators to exchange for with contribution points, as there would be more and more family cultivators, and it wouldn''t be possible for him to gift each one in need.


    The second to wake up was Lin Houxuan, who was extremely excited at the moment:


    "Family Head, this Spiritual Tea can heal the injuries sustained after attempting Foundation Establishment, and its effects are in no way inferior to those of a Second Rank Supreme Grade Elixir!"


    "With this Spiritual Tea, I''m confident I can make another attempt at Foundation Establishment!"


    "It seems this Spiritual Tea is indeed extraordinary!" Lin Shiming nodded, then poured another cup for Lin Houxuan, followed by another for Lin Shilei.


    Although the others also experienced growth in their cultivation, the effects were obviously not as good as those of Lin Shilei and Lin Houxuan.


    A few more hours passed, and both Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong woke up almost simultaneously.


    Both were overjoyed, especially the former.


    Lin Shijie had also begun to condense his True Yuan. He was confident that he could break through to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage in five to ten years, and he was only fifty years old now. Being at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage at the age of sixty meant that he still had a full one hundred ny years to attempt to reach the Purple Mansion.


    Lin Houyong, albeit slower, if he could fully assimte, would also see the threshold of True Yuan condensation. In the next twenty or thirty years, he should also have a chance at breakthrough.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Though the time still seemed far off, it was worth noting that before this moment, he even felt that he might remain at the Foundation Establishment Early Stage for the rest of his life.


    "Thank you, Family Head!" both of them couldn''t help but bow in gratitude, understanding that this Fourth Rank Spiritual Tea was extremely precious to Lin Shiming as well.


    This kindness was substantial indeed.


    "Big brother, Uncle Five, you are being too formal!" Lin Shiming continued with a smile. These two, when Shiming was young, had taken great care of him; his big brother was the most caring among their generation, while Uncle Five, although a rival seed for Foundation Establishment with his father back then, had also taken good care of him.


    After finishing the Spiritual Tea, Lin Shiming proceeded to enquire about the situation of the family over thest decade.


    In the past ten years, the family had stopped operating in Xing County Square Market, and the merchant fleets had ceased as well, leaving only the Qingyun Square Market to sell some Spiritual Artifacts and Elixirs. As a result, the family''s Spirit Stone revenue was minimal over these years.


    However, the distribution of Spirit Peach Liquor and Spirit Fish was ample, ensuring the family cultivators did not fall behind in their cultivation progression.


    Meanwhile, the Ascending Immortal Conference was held as usual. In the past ten years, the Lin Family had sessfully relocated mortals to Lingnan County, and through intermarriage, they could now select children with Spirit Roots.


    The Ze generation was now over a hundred strong, with two Dual Spirit Roots and ten Third Spirit Roots, while the rest were either Fourth Spirit Roots or Quintuple Spirit Roots.


    And as expected, most of the talented Dual Spirit Roots and Third Spirit Roots children were born to family cultivators, benefiting from the family''s fertility reward policy.


    Of course, these ten years hadn''t been entirely peaceful.


    After two years of campaigning had passed, some Loose Cultivators who had hidden themselves began causing unrest in Yunzhou.


    Sects'' conscription would call upon most Foundation Establishment cultivators, and some base families with only one Foundation Establishment cultivator had tomit to campaigns.


    The Loose Cultivators obviously thought that the Lin Family had no one at the Foundation Establishment level, and even if they did, they would stay at Fangmu Mountain.


    Thinking about making a fortune at Nanling Mountain, they then nned to flee Zhao Kingdom.


    Seven or eight Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators, bragging as sessors of the Seven Fiends, attacked the Mountain Protection Array of Nanling Mountain but were ultimately in on the spot by Lin Shijie.


    ...


    Several dayster, deep within the ore vein, with a whizzing sound, a few huge, round, yellow spirit rats suddenly burrowed into the mine.


    They twitched their noses and sniffed around.


    After detecting no special scent, they vigorously bit into the Golden Iron Stone inside another mine tunnel.


    The crunching sound echoed continuously within the mine.


    In the blink of an eye, a few pieces of Second Rank Supreme Grade Golden Iron Stone werepletely devoured.


    The next moment, an even bigger Gold Devouring Rat burst from the entrance, its yellow body now golden, with arger nose, and incisors that were three inches long.


    It clearly possessed the might of a Third Rank being.


    As the Third Rank Gold Devouring Rat appeared, another twenty or so Gold Devouring Rats crawled out of the entrance and began to frenziedly gnaw on the Golden Iron Stones in the mine.


    Meanwhile, the Third Rank Gold Devouring Raty quietly, pressing its sharp ears to the ground.


    With another rustling sound, two more huge gold Gold Devouring Rats emerged, simrly sized to the previous one, and started digging toward the depths of the mine.


    The digging noises grew louder, and at that moment, a mass of golden figures nearly filling the entire burrow truly appeared.


    It was the Third Rank Gold Devouring Rat King; uponnding, it, too, like the two Gold Devouring Rats before it, started digging towards the deeper parts of the mine,pletely ignoring the Second Rank Golden Iron Stones.


    What they didn''t know was that Lin Shiming was hiding alone in a Concealment Formation nearby, clothed in a Qinglian Taoist Robe.


    Lin Shiyi and the others had realized that the Gold Devouring Rats'' noses could not be blocked by regr Concealment Formations, which was the reason they could not handle them.


    However, at this moment, Lin Shiming, wearing the Qinglian Taoist Robe along with the Concealment Formation, had apparently managed to hide sessfully.


    He didn''t make a move at that moment but watched as the three Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats dug in the soil.


    Soon, he saw something that made his eyes light up¡ªa purer cluster of ironstone appeared in his line of sight.


    "As expected!" Lin Shiming was excited inwardly.


    The ironstone in front of him had a crystal shape like that of a Spirit Stone, the higher version of the Second Rank Golden Iron Stone¡ªthe Third Rank Golden Iron Crystal.


    When the Third Rank Golden Iron Crystal appeared, thergest Gold Devouring Rat King began to gnaw at it, making crunching noises.


    The other two Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats continued to dig.


    But the next moment, the sound of the Shocking God Drum resonated, stunning all the spirit rats with its reverberation, especially the Gold Devouring Rat pressing its ears to the ground, from which golden blood emerged.


    On the other hand, the Third Rank Rat King was unharmed, but the next moment, a huge ck grinding wheel began to spin again, coupled with a Split Spirit de from Lin Shiming, thoroughly dealing with the Third Rank Rat King as well.


    And the next moment, thirty-six Superior Grade Formation Swords flew out,


    ughtering all four Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats on the spot.

 Chapter 221 Map Clues

    As Lin Shiming made a move, Lin Shiyi and Lin Houyong, who were already prepared outside, rushed out with great speed.


    Following behind them, was a group of Qi Cultivators from the Lin Family.


    The ambush and pursuit had long been nned.


    But what entered their sight was not the duel between Lin Shiming and the Gold Devouring Rat.


    Instead, it was the corpses of four Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats, as well as the Second Rank Gold Devouring Rats wailing all over the ground, bleeding unstoppably from their ears.


    And just then, Lin Shiming had just withdrawn his Magic Artifact.


    Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong''s understanding of Lin Shiming''s strength was elevated once again.


    They too had encountered these Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats before, and had fought them a few times, but were unable to kill them. However, since the rats'' attackscked variety, they also couldn''t harm the two.


    But they werepletely unable to stop the Gold Devouring Rats from escaping.


    From the moment Lin Shimingunched his attack to when they arrived, he had eradicated the four rats with lightning speed. It all happened in less than five breaths!


    Such strength was something that even ordinary cultivators at theter stage of Foundation Establishment might not be able to achieve!


    At that moment, Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong, with nothing else to do, chopped off the heads of the Second Rank Gold Devouring Rats with ruptured eardrums.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming walked to the depths of the mine, where half of a Golden Iron Crystal still remained on the ground.


    Massive bite marks were clearly imprinted on it, revealing the golden color of the crystal''s interior.


    The Golden Iron Crystal was incredibly gorgeous. It looked like a piece of red-hot iron, but it was even more lustrous and transparent, extraordinarily beautiful.


    Of course, the real value of the Golden Iron Crystal was its ability to increase the hardness of Magic Artifacts; as far as cultivation materials went, it was extremely expensive.


    An Intermediate Grade Golden Iron Stone was about one hundred Spirit Stones, while the price of a Third Rank Golden Iron Crystal was over ten times that, costing a thousand Spirit Stones for a single piece.


    Ifbined with some other materials, it could easily refine a Magic Artifact of the Third Rank Intermediate Grade without any issue.


    By this time, Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong also looked over, and the stunning appearance of the Golden Iron Crystal amazed them as well.


    They each took the Golden Iron Crystal and examined it for a while before looking deeper into the mine.


    Their eyes shone brightly; the vein of Golden Iron Stone was considerable. It was only a question of whether the Golden Iron Crystal was an exception or part of the vein.


    But thetter seemed quite probable, or else the Third Rank Gold Devouring Rats wouldn''t have appeared.


    With the value of the Golden Iron Crystal, just ten pieces could bring in a revenue of ten thousand Spirit Stones. Even a small vein of Golden Iron Crystal could significantly improve the Lin Family''s finances.


    By then, it wouldn''t be a problem to support ten Foundation Establishment Cultivators, or even be a Purple Mansion Family, sustaining the cultivation of a Purple Mansion Cultivator.


    Lin Shiming looked at the soil here, but he just shook his head as the soil had be even harder, probably too much for early-stage Qi Cultivators to mine.


    Only mid-stage Qi Cultivators would be able to mine it by then, and with many of the family''s cultivators having fallen in the war, most of the Ze-generation Cultivators were still at the early stages of Qi Cultivation. As for those with great talent, it wasn''t possible to arrange for them to mine either.


    As for Loose Cultivators, it was even less likely that the Lin Family would arrange for them.


    If the news leaked out and the Golden Iron Crystal content wasn''t small, even Purple Mansion Cultivators might be tempted.


    Lin Shijie and Lin Houyong were also crouching down at this moment, breaking apart the soil and frowning deeply.


    This kind of rock-hard soil was a significant problem for mining. Early-stage Qi Cultivators wouldn''t be able to mine it, and mid-stage cultivators would be very slow. Late-stage Qi Cultivators could be fast, but the Lin Family couldn''t possibly lette-stage Qi Cultivators or Foundation Establishment Cultivators mine here.


    "Fifth Uncle, if we had known, we wouldn''t have killed those Second Rank Gold Devouring Rats just now!" Lin Shijie couldn''t help but say.


    "Even if we had controlled those Spirit Rats, the chances of them stealing are still very high, and they are not young rats either!" Lin Houyong shook his head.


    Those beastly rats, even if uninjured, couldn''t be used to control mining.


    That was also why Lin Shiming''s Shocking God Drum and Rolling Divine te did not avoid those young rats.


    "Does everyone have an Earth Escape Talisman?" Lin Shiming suddenly remembered the Gold Devouring Rats.


    In the past, the Lin Family conquered Peach Blossom Valley and captured quite a few Qi-training macaques; among the Lin Family''s Shi and Hou generations, there were many yellow-furred Spirit Beasts.


    At this moment, naturally, there would also be Gold Devouring Rat pups.


    Adult Gold Devouring Rats would steal food, but the pups could be trained.


    "We''ve got them!" The Lin Family cultivators all had their eyes light up at this moment.


    Here, Divine Sense would be suppressed, but with their Earth Escape Talismans, they could still search.


    "Everyone, search within a hundred li around the mining vein, the Gold Devouring Rat pups definitely won''t be far!" Lin Shiming said aloud.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Subsequently, the Qi Cultivators divided into pairs, Lin Shiming, Lin Houyuan, and Lin Shijie each in a group of their own.


    They fanned out in a circr pattern and dispersed in all directions.


    Before long, Lin Shiming and the others found a rodent burrow about five thousand meters from the mining vein.


    The burrow was clearly developed in recent years, not very big, but had numerous entrances.


    Most of them were fake tunnels leading to dead ends.


    Yet, following the trail of Golden Iron Stone debris along the path, they quickly discovered the real cave.


    In an expanse of yellow desated Spirit Grass, over a dozen pups were gnawing crunchily on the Golden Iron Stone.


    At the entrance, two yellow Gold Devouring Rats bared their teeth and grimaced at Lin Shiming, continuously warning him.


    They were in by Lin Shiming on the spot.


    The remaining dozen or so Gold Devouring Rat pups were all taken away.


    The group then continued back to Stone Ridge Cave.


    With a dozen or so pupsid out before them, it was natural to select corresponding mining cultivators to establish Blood Covenants, and rear these Gold Devouring Rats.


    At the same time, they also had to arrange the future defense of Stone Ridge Cave


    The original formation simply wouldn''t do, it also had to be reced with a more formidable Third Rank Mountain Protection Array.


    "Uncle Five, distribute these Gold Devouring Rats!" Lin Shiming said to Lin Houyong.


    Having found Third Rank Golden Iron Crystal, Stone Ridge Cave must also be manned by Foundation Establishment cultivators.


    The Lin Family''s sites that needed to be overseen were always rotated by Foundation Establishment cultivators, with a term of ten years.


    At present, the only Foundation Establishment cultivators avable to oversee different ces for the Lin Family were Lin Houyuan, Lin Houyong, and Lin Shijie.


    Lin Houyuan had just returned from Zhao Kingdom and needed to make a breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage; Lin Shijie was also close, and had already stayed in Lingnan County for more than a decade.


    The ces overseen by the Lin Family were two: Xing County Market and Nanling Mountain, now there was an additional Stone Ridge Cave.


    "Don''t worry!" Lin Houyuan nodded his head, the mine had been his responsibility from the beginning, and he was more suitable for arranging the Spirit Rats.


    "When Uncle Two and Lin Shiyi, Lin Houwei are ready for their breakthroughs, they cane to rece you!" Lin Shiming spoke again.


    This statement left Lin Houyong somewhat dumbfounded, with Lin Shijie also wearing a look of confusion.


    It was normal for Lin Shiyi and Lin Houwei to be on the verge of breakthroughs, but Lin Houshou was already over sixty years old.


    Shiming could only start exining the situation with the Dragon Blood Pill one by one.


    After the exnation, it drew surprise and continuous exmations from both of them.


    "By the way, Uncle Five, Elder Brother, have you ever seen the location on this map?" After making all the arrangements, Lin Shiming brought out the treasure map he had obtained earlier.


    As soon as the map was produced, Lin Shijie was somewhat astonished; the map seemed rather casual.


    However, Lin Houyong''s expression changed:


    "I''ve seen it, the ce is still vivid in my memory!"

 Chapter 222 Poisonous Dragon Swamp

    Shiming couldn''t help feeling a surge of tion, he hadn''t expected that, on a casual try, Lin Houyong would actually know of this ce.


    "It''s about a hundred li deep into the range from Qingshi Ridge towards Qingyun Mountain," Lin Houyong said. However, after finishing his speech, he spoke again with some concern,


    "But that ce is a Poisonous Insect Valley, with innumerable varieties of poisonous insects. I only went there while pursuing a Third Rank Demonic Python, but there were too many poisonous insects, so I had to give up and leave!"


    After Lin Houyong finished speaking, he looked at the map again. Clearly still haunted by the ferocity of the poisonous insects and skeptical about the map,


    If it was an ancient cultivator''s cave abode, the maps and notes of an ancient cultivator would be extremely orderly, every stroke exuding maturity and grandeur.


    Even for a slightly more precious map, it would be engraved more rigorously, since even a slight error in the map could lead to a thousand li discrepancy from reality.


    So following this map, even if it''s in that Poison Valley, there could be a significant margin of error.


    "Hmm, let me contact Seventh Great-Uncle and explore it together!" Shiming pondered for a moment and decided he would still go explore.


    This was a cave abode map prompted by the system, so it probably wouldn''t be too far off.


    If it was again a Purple Mansion cultivator''s cave abode, then the gains should also be substantial.


    As for the dangers, ording to Lin Houyong''s description, that location was far from the inner reaches of Qingyun Mountain Range, and the probability of encountering a Purple Mansion Great Demon was not high. As for the ordinary Third Rank Foundation Establishment Demonic Beasts, they did not pose much of a threat to him.


    If Lin Houyong could explore there and return in one piece, then the danger was at least within a controble range.


    If he also brought along Seventh Great-Uncle Lin Xianzhi, the danger should not be substantial.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Once Shiming made up his mind, he immediately set out on the journey. On the contrary, Lin Yuqing and Lin Shilei, who hade to kill the Gold Devouring Rats together, did not leave.


    Since the Golden Iron Stone vein had revealed Third Rank Golden Iron Crystals, it naturally required more manpower to guard. Otherwise, should Demonic Beasts like the Gold Devouring Rats reappear and steal Golden Iron Crystals, even losing just one would mean a loss of over a thousand Spirit Stones.


    ...


    In a certain area of Qingyun Mountain Range, a Spirit Boat descended along the jungle.


    A group of cultivators descended from the sky.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Family Head, the location on the map is this valley!" Lin Houyong led at the front and confirmed as he looked back.


    This group of cultivators was from the Lin Family. Not many people came for this exploration: three Foundation Establishment cultivators¡ªLin Xianzhi, Shiming, and Lin Houyong¡ªand three Qi Cultivators¡ªLin Yuqing, Lin Houxuan, and Lin Shiyun.


    Lin Shiyun had also broken through to the eighth level of Qi Cultivation at this time and was skilled in formations, so he had joined this exploration.


    Shiming nodded. In front of them appeared a valley shrouded in miasma, sparsely vegetated within a hundred meters around its boundaries, and with very low visibility inside the valley.


    The exploration with Divine Sense was also greatly affected, with the range of detection reduced by more than half.


    "Everyone, take a Mingzhi Pill!"


    Shiming took out several pill bottles and distributed one to each person.


    The Mingzhi Pill was a Third Rank Detoxification Pill and a recent form acquisition of the Lin Family, refined by Lin Houxuan.


    After everyone took one elixir,


    Shiyun also began to take out an Array te. This Array te was a Third Rank Formation and was a formation within a formation studied by Lin Houshou, consisting of an Illusion Array plus a Trapping Formation.


    It was quite powerful, but Shiyun didn''t have the strength to set it up by himself and many Spirit Arts had to rely on Lin Xianzhi and Shiming to execute.


    As Lin Xianzhi and Shiming didn''t understand the intricacies involved, they could only mechanically execute one Spirit Art after another, and it took them almost half a day to set up.


    As a sh of spirit light passed, the formation finally took shape, forming a spirit shield that gradually dimmed and disappeared.


    With the formationplete, the people of the Lin Family were greatly relieved; at least they were not entirely unprepared for danger.


    Once the formation was established, Lin Shiming took out a storage bag, and two spirit corpses appeared before them.


    These two spirit corpses were the lifeblood corpses obtained from ying Corpse Refining Sect cultivators at Yunjing Mountain. After returning to Fangmu Mountain, Lin Shiming had learned a basic Corpse Control Technique, which allowed him tomand the corpses to perform simple actions with a strength equivalent to the early stage of foundation establishment.


    Of course, using a basic Corpse Control Technique tomand third-rank lifeblood corpses came with a deadly side effect: the technique had to be continuously executed, and divine sense could not be rxed for a moment.


    Otherwise, if the spirit corpses acted on their own, it was highly likely that spirit corpse devouring master would ur.


    The best course of action was to find a family cultivator who specialized in corpse refining techniques and then refine these two spirit corpses.


    However, exploring Poison Valley at this moment was just right.


    The spirit corpses were of a spirit leopard corpse and a green-haired zombie.


    As they appeared, they seemed a bit stunned. Having been battered by the gales within the Heavenly Demon Bag for years, they found it difficult to adapt at first. But under Lin Shiming''s control, they soon recovered their fierce gaze. Their sharp fangs emitted a chilling glint as they let out ferocious howls and charged towards Poison Valley.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming and the others quickly followed.


    Upon entering Poison Valley, even though they had taken the Clear Miasma Elixir, they felt somewhat dizzy. It wasn''t until they manipted the spirit light to form a spirit shield that they fully recovered.


    Leading at the front was Lin Shiming, with three Qi cultivators in the middle, and Lin Xianzhi and Lin Houyong at the rear.


    The two spirit corpses charged around wildly, and soon, flower pythons appeared one after another in the miasma, biting at the corpses.


    The green-haired zombie and the spirit leopard corpse were not to be outdone and bit back fiercely.


    The usual second-rank venomous snakes and scorpions were effortlessly stuffed into the mouths of the two corpses. They chewed messily without stopping their advance.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shiming kept his divine sense alert, ready to incite the spirit corpses into frenzies and attack Purple Mansion demonic beasts at any sign, then escape immediately with an Earth Escape Talisman.


    After his divine sense swept through much of Poison Valley, Lin Shiming exchanged a nce with Lin Xianzhi, feeling slightly more at ease. The absence of any disturbance also meant the absence of Purple Mansion great demons.


    The two spirit corpses continued to advance, while Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi expanded their divine sense to the maximum, daring not to ck in the least.


    Their gaze finally settled on a poisonous fog swamp at the very center.


    Lin Shiming was surprised to discover wild Poisonous Dragon Vine.


    These Poisonous Dragon Vines were almost indistinguishable from those he had purchased in Jiuye City, and there were numerous seeds.


    Under normal circumstances, this would have filled him with joy, but his mood was now quite poor, amidst the dangers of Poison Valley.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, we may be in trouble!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but send a telepathic message, controlling the spirit corpses to stop and ready to retreat at any moment.


    Discovering Poisonous Dragon Vine was not good news. If there was a poisonous dragon hiding in the swamp, even one at theter stage of the third rank that had not reached Purple Mansion level, they might still be no match for it.


    Thebat power of a poisonous dragon was among the top tiers within demonic beasts, and a cultivator of the same rank was no match for it, let alone in such a highly toxic swamp.


    "That seems to be a cultivator''s cave!" Lin Xianzhi frowned too, wary of the poisonous dragon.


    However, within his divine sense range, beside the swamp on a small mountain, he discovered a cave covered in formations.


    Clearly, it was a cultivator''s cave, and yet with the entire Lin Family''s divine sense scanning, there was no movement, suggesting it was an abandoned cave!

 Chapter 223 Venomous Horned Python

    The Lin Family members were all feeling tense at this moment, with the cultivator''s cave right before their eyes, visible yet untouchable, which made them hesitate while also feeling a sense of regret.


    Lin Shiming raised both hands, gesturing that they were preparing to retreat.


    Facing a poison jiao dragon, even if it was a newly born one, was beyond their capability to resist.


    What''s more, with so many demon kings in the Qingyun Mountain Range, if this poison jiao dragon was the offspring of one of those demon kings, the whole Yunzhou wouldn''t be able to bear such wrath.


    Lin Xianzhi also nodded in agreement; although the group did not speak, they were in sync, ready to withdraw quietly, regarding the two spirit zombies, even with Lin Shiming''s corpse control technique suppressing them, it was clear they were full of resistance, unwilling and reluctant.


    But at this moment, Lin Shiming could not be concerned with them; if the two spirit zombies were of no use, they could only be left to be engulfed by the poison jiao dragon''s fury.


    "Please y the venomous horned python, and you will obtain a serpent egg that has a chance to transform into a jiao!"


    However, just then, a system prompt appeared, causing Lin Shiming to be taken aback.


    In the system''s prompt, there was no mention of a poison jiao dragon, but instead, a horned python.


    Although both the horned python and poison jiao dragon have horns, the difference between them is huge!


    A horned python of the Third Rank, even if there were more than a dozen of them, would be no match for a poison jiao dragon,


    not to mention acquiring an egg with a slim chance of transformation into a jiao.


    It should be known that Lin Shiming had the Bloodline Reversion Secret Technique; if he could obtain some jiao blood or some potent python blood, it might be possible to induce the serpent''s transformation into a flood dragon.


    Having a flood dragon spirit beast would be exceedingly beneficial for his path of cultivation and for future magical battles.


    A normal adult spirit jiao would be at least at the level of the Purple Mansion, and with an even purer bloodline, it could be a Golden Core Demon King.


    "Great-uncle, the two spirit zombies are showing a great deal of initiative; with the poison jiao dragon yet to appear, could there be some hidden circumstances?" Lin Shiming transmitted his thoughts to his great-uncle.


    At this moment, the great-uncle''s expression also showed some changes; Lin Shiming''s reasoning was not without merit.


    Powerful demonic beasts are extremely territorial; they will fight to the death not only when their territory is invaded by human cultivators, but even if a fellow beast enters without reason.


    Of course, Lin Xianzhi might reason that way, but he still hesitated.


    A cave of unknown depth naturally wasn''t worth the risk.


    The Lin Family, after all, not only had a Third Rank superior-grade spirit vein but also a Third Rank golden iron crystal vein, and their family''s talents were thriving more with each generation; there was simply no need to take this risk.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also understood his great-uncle''s concerns.


    But he couldn''t reveal the prompt.


    As the Lin Family members continued to retreat, Lin Shiming was no exception.


    "Not good, great-uncle! The corpse control technique is out of control!" Lin Shiming suddenly eximed, shock apparent in his eyes as he rapidly cast his spirit art.


    Yet it was still to no avail. The two spirit zombies, as if provoked, charged towards the marsh, and began violently tearing at the Poisonous Dragon Vine.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Retreat quickly!" the great-uncle shouted in rm!


    The group didn''t hesitate any longer.


    And at that moment, indeed from within the marsh, apanied by a thunderous roar, a massive creatureshed out, its colossal head biting towards the two spirit zombies.


    Boom!


    The green-haired zombie was bitten with a loud crackle; if an ordinary cultivator had been in its ce, they would have likely died on the spot, but the green-haired zombie''s body was of Third Rank intermediate-grade, equivalent to a Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivator specializing in body cultivation; however, Lin Shiming''s corpse control technique failed to harness its physical strength.


    And the Spirit Leopard zombie was flung by the tail of the gigantic creature, flying dozens of meters away.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, it''s not a Poisonous Dragon, it''s ate-stage Third Rank Horned Python bluffing as something fiercer!" Lin Shiming excitedly eximed.


    At this moment, the Seventh Great-Uncle and the others also saw the form of the iing beast.


    It was an immensely huge, highly poisonous Horned Python. Layers of venom flowed on the surface of the python''s body, giving the appearance of countless scales, and underneath its belly, ws were nowhere to be seen. On the head of the python, there was a protruding bump that seemed as though it could pop out at any moment, its colossal mouth only sporting two enormous fangs.


    The Lin Family members immediately halted their advance, as two Spirit Zombies were beaten by the Horned Python until their Spirit Light faded, their fearsome aura dissipating considerably.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, we should give it a try!" Lin Shiming shouted loudly.


    Straight after, the Rolling Divine te flew out of his hand, transforming into a giant hill-like shape, rolling towards the highly poisonous Horned Python.


    The Horned Python instantly let out an angry roar, its huge mouth opening wide, and suddenly a ck column of water burst out, rushing towards the Rolling Divine te.


    The water column was extremely toxic. The air immediately started sizzling, as if the air itself was being corroded away.


    Hitting the Rolling Divine te, it started to continuously corrode the Spirit Light of the te.


    However, the Rolling Divine te continued its path towards the highly poisonous Horned Python.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming felt a pang of heartache; after all, the Rolling Divine te was ranked among the very best, even within the Third Rank Supreme Grade Magic Artifacts.


    Lin Shiming then released a total of thirty-six Flying Swords and formed them into four smaller Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formations, shing towards the highly poisonous Horned Python.


    On the other side, Lin Xianzhi also drew his sword at this moment. His Qinglian Sword glowed intensely, transforming into sharp Green Lotus Sword Lotuses and fiercely shed down.


    The highly poisonous Horned Python let out another furious roar and then its massive tail violently swung within the marsnd, sending a deluge of venomous mud flying into the sky, straight towards the Sword Lotuses.


    For a time, the Horned Python fought fiercely against Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    On the sidelines, Lin Houyong and the others couldn''t help but give a wry smile, as they realized they couldn''t even get involved in the fight at this moment.


    They could only stand aside, throwing out Spirit Talismans, causing some, albeit limited, trouble for the Horned Python.


    However, without notice, more Spirit Snakes emerged within the swamp.


    The cultivators then started to control their Magic Artifacts, engaging in battle with the Second and Third Rank poisonous snakes.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, it seems like the power of this Horned Python has also been affected by something else!" Lin Shiming spoke up again. Of course, in his heart, he knew that the Horned Python must have justid snake eggs and was not at its peak strength, but this was not something he could share with his Seventh Great-Uncle.


    "Indeed it is, Shiming. I''ll distract it, you deliver the fatal blow!" Lin Xianzhi nodded, excitement visible in his eyes.


    Although the Horned Python was not a Flood Dragon, it could be considered half a Flood Dragon. The venom flowing across its body was like that of a Flood Dragon, and it even had horns, with a flesh pouch underneath its belly.


    Of course, even though the Horned Python was only a few steps away from being a Flood Dragon, that gap was as vast as a chasm.


    Having said that, Lin Xianzhi pointed with his sword again, and two Supreme Grade swords flew out, their intense Sword Light interweaving into a densely packed Sword Net that the highly poisonous Horned Python simply could not block.


    The Horned Python roared angrily once again, spewing out venom in all directions.


    It tried to break the Sword Net, but as the Net opened, it was met with a massive Rolling Divine te.


    Along with the Shocking God Drum, theyunched a doubleyered Divine Sense attack,bined with the Split Spirit de.


    This inflicted excruciating pain on the highly poisonous Horned Python, causing it to howl repeatedly in agony.


    It rolled frantically in the swamp, kicking up a sky-high toxic whirlwind.


    Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shiming took action at the same time. At that moment, the Spirit Shields around them had all corroded away, and they had to take several Bright gue Pills again and activate their Inner Armor to fend off the poison.

 Chapter 224 The Serpent Egg with the Potential to Transform into a Flood Dragon

    The poison wave passed, and the highly toxic Horned Python also broke free from the Sword Net and Rolling Divine te.


    With a swish of its huge tail, it even smashed Lin Shiming''s four Sword Arrays into individual Formation Swords, with their Spirit Light significantly diminished.


    The highly toxic Horned Python then let out another roar, and in the next moment, the unexpected python drilled into the marsh.


    "Where do you think you''re going!" Lin Shiming also shouted, naturally not willing to let the python escape, as the swamp would further suppress them.


    In Lin Shiming''s hand was a Heavenly Demon Bag, releasing fierce winds, sucking towards the highly toxic Horned Python.


    At the same time, a streak of golden light shot out from the void, and in the next moment, two vivid golden scythe-like limbs reached out, shing at the python''s vital seven-inch area.


    The Golden Sickles moved extremely quickly, carrying a dazzling and sharp aura¡ªit was the hidden Golden Winged Mantis that had flown in.


    However, shrouded in the poison fog and not being close, it was fortunate that the Golden Winged Mantis had six wings and had reached the Third Rank Middle Stage in strength.


    Yet, the python''s body was even more agile, and amid its turmoil, that bulge on its body began to gather Spirit Light, forming a radiant sh that fiercely struck at the Golden Winged Mantis''s scythe-like limbs.


    With a thunderous boom, the Golden Winged Mantis was directly sent flying, its six wings pping wildly, but it still couldn''t halt its retreat, and its two scythe-like limbs began to emanate a ck light, severely wounded.


    And at that moment, the eyes of the highly toxic Horned Python couldn''t help but dim, and its entire body''s Spirit Light also seemed to dim a little.


    The attack controlled by the bulge on its head obviously took a significant toll on it.


    During this brief pause, Lin Shiming suddenly reached the vicinity, violently throwing the Rolling Divine te in his hand at the highly toxic Horned Python.


    Not to mention his Foundation Establishment Middle Stage cultivation level, he was also a Foundation Establishment Body Cultivator, and the moment he smashed the Rolling Divine te down, it immediately forced the highly toxic Horned Python to stop, swinging its tail ferociously at the Rolling Divine te.


    The Rolling Divine te was sent flying, and it seemed as if the Horned Python''s tailbones were also fractured somewhat, letting out a painful roar.


    The Sword Lotus reappeared, transforming into a Sword Net.


    And it was at this moment that Lin Shiming suddenly sent a purple Spirit Sword flying out.


    Like a de of Grass Sword, it sliced through the air.


    The highly toxic Horned Python was extremely uneasy and wanted to dodge, but it was entangled by the Sword Net, and the Zi Sword, which flew out like a de of Grass Sword, had an even more terrifying speed.


    The next moment, a dazzling sword light burst forth.


    The entire marsh seemed to be split open by a giant sword, revealing a huge crack.


    And at this moment, the highly toxic Horned Python was cut in two!


    "Shiming, well done!" Lin Xianzhi, seeing the death of the python, looked towards Lin Shiming.


    He immediately understood; this was the Grass Character Sword Technique Lin Shiming had grasped on the Dao Enlightenment tform.


    While inwardly marvelling, he also felt happy for Lin Shiming in his heart.


    Lin Shiming''s strike, he felt, was one he couldn''t even withstand.


    The Heaven-ying aura was just too terrifying.


    And at this moment, Lin Shiming, gasping deeply, had used the Grass Character Sword Technique for the first time; however, with a bitter smile, he realized the technique relied on the de of Grass Sword within his body. The power was indeed great, even far surpassing Lin Xianzhi''s Sword Light Transformation in strength.


    But the consumption was also tremendous.


    Checking his own body inwardly, the Grass Sword appeared extremely withered, clearly unable to unleash another strike in the short term.


    However, the oue was very satisfactory, with the death of the highly toxic Horned Python, it also meant he could harvest the possible Flood Dragon-transforming snake eggs, as well as the unknown Cultivator''s Cave Heaven.


    Which he was greatly looking forward to.


    Lin Shiming paused momentarily, and Lin Xianzhi also went to aid Lin Houyong and the others, ying all the remaining spiritual snakes in Poison Valley.


    Lin Shiming also collected the corpse of the Horned Python, as its form could possibly pass for that of a Dragon Beast, though it was uncertain whether its extreme poison could be used to refine Dragon Blood Pills.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    But its body materials were undeniably precious.


    After stowing away the toxic Horned Python, Lin Shiyun began to set up formations, as now that Poison Valley had been thoroughly cleansed, it was natural for them toy down formations.


    First was the istion matrix, blocking any divine sense from probing, and they also needed to iste the bloody stench to avoid drawing other Demonic Beasts.


    Lin Shiming personally went around Poison Valley to transnt several Poisonous Dragon Vines, and while it was unclear if the vines would survive, they would deter any Demonic Beast in the short term.


    After nting the Poisonous Dragon Vines, Lin Shiming returned to the swamp to collect the two Lingzombies whose spirit light had greatly diminished.


    The two Lingzombies were gravely injured and their spiritual energy was severely depleted; it was likely that they could only recover to the strength of a Third Rank Early Stage, but Lin Shiming didn''t care¡ªhe nned to give them to the family n, as their weakened state would also mean less aggression.


    Finally, Lin Shiming collected the Golden Winged Mantis, which was severely injured this time. He first used Spirit Water to rinse off the venom, then fed it arge quantity of healing and detoxification pills, and ended with giving it a handful of lotus seeds.


    These lotus seeds were produced by the Green Lotus of the Lin family, and over the years, as the Spirit Vein of Fangmu Mountain had be a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, even the effects of the Green Lotus had significantly increased.


    After consuming the lotus seeds, the condition of the Golden Winged Mantis visibly improved.


    Lin Shiming then ced it into the Cave Heaven World to continue healing.


    Once all this was dealt with, Lin Shiming joined Lin Xianzhi and the others.


    At this moment, their eyes were fervently fixed on the cultivator''s mansion; now that the formations were set up, the contents within the mansion were even more attractive to the members of the Lin Family n.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, there should be some good things inside that Horned Python. I''m going to explore the swamp first!" However, Lin Shiming approached the swamp at this moment.


    Hearing this, the rest of the Lin family also followed him out.


    The swamp had changed drastically at this point.


    The Grass Character Sword Art had divided the swamp into two separate swamps, with a huge crack between them, still filled with sword qi.


    This made everyone gasp once again, their gazes shifting as they looked at Lin Shiming.


    They werepletely unable to fathom the extent of this exceptional talent from the Lin family, who had emerged so impressively.


    Not to say that the two Spirit Beasts were extremely fierce, but his cultivation talent was faster than that of someone with a Dual Spirit Root, hisbat prowess terrifyingly outstanding, and even in Body Cultivation, he was undoubtedly the first in the Lin family.


    And all these changes had urred in just thirty short years.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming wasn''t paying attention to the looks from the rest of his family; his focus was entirely on the swamp.


    His divine sense was strong, and he had explored the entire swamp.


    There were no other Spirit Beasts in the swamp, as the previous Horned Python wouldn''t have allowed it.


    In the depths of the swamp, there was a huge cave with a natural barrier at its entrance, which kept the toxic water of the swamp out. Inside the entrance, Lin Shiming found a nest.


    Among them, a good number of Dragon Blood Grass was growing.


    This discovery delighted Lin Shiming once again.


    The im that the Poisonous Dragon Horned Python had transformed into a half-flood-dragon beast seemed usible once more.


    Next to the Dragon Blood Grass, there was an egg the size of a washbasin.


    As Lin Shiming''s divine sense covered it, to his surprise, a force of spirit energy surged out from the snake egg, charging at his probing spirit force.


    The spirit force wasn''trge, but it was extremely ferocious, as if it was warning him to scram!

 Chapter 225 Mysterious Transmission Formation

    Lin Shiming''s interest surged upon seeing such a spiritually intelligent egg for the first time.


    Meanwhile, Lin Xianzhi''s divine sense had also detected the existence of the snake egg, and his face showed sheer delight.


    However, he made no move; in his opinion, whether it was a matter of credit or potential, these things were better suited for Lin Shiming.


    "Shiming, go and retrieve those items!" Lin Xianzhi said.


    Lin Shiming didn''t hesitate. He opened the Spirit Shield and then transformed into an Escape Light, heading towards the depths of the swamp. He quickly reached the cave dwelling and saw the giant egg.


    The giant egg was still emitting a resistant divine sense fluctuation, but Lin Shiming was no longer indulging it at this moment.


    With a casual wave of his hand, he collected the snake egg into his Cave Heaven World.


    He also carefully transnted the Dragon Blood Grass. Half of it he ced into a Jade Box for safekeeping, and the other half, he nted in the Spirit Soil within the Cave Heaven World, right next to where he ced the snake egg.


    Previously nting Dragon Blood Grass was nothing more than a pipe dream without the presence of dragon vein energies. However, with this egg seemingly reverting to its ancestral state and possessing some dragon bloodline, nting Dragon Blood Grass shouldn''t be a problem.


    As Lin Shiming was nting the grass, the Red-haired Demon Monkey hopped over curiously and even tried to dig out the snake egg with its arms.


    After a stern re and a harsh warning from Lin Shiming, it scratched its head and scampered off to the side.


    With the spirit egg settled, Lin Shiming arranged a Nurturing Spirit Formation.


    This Nurturing Spirit Formation was moreplex than the one he used for nurturing the Golden Winged Mantis. He found it in the introductory guide to Beast Taming at the Spirit Beast Sect, and it could also speed up the catalyzation of the spirit egg. However, it also required a significant amount of Third Rank Spirit Water.


    As Lin Shiming poured in the Spirit Water, he also took out three Superior Grade Spirit Stones and ced them to the side.


    After finishing, Lin Shiming forcefully condensed a Blood Covenant.


    Now that the snake egg had developed partial consciousness, Lin Shiming wasn''t going to wait until it hatched to set up the Spirit Contract.


    If the serpent were already mighty upon hatching, that would be a huge loss.


    To his surprise, as he attempted the more domineering Spirit Contract from the Beast Taming details of the Spirit Beast Sect, the snake egg began to exude Spirit Light, which pushed out his essence blood and caused the Spirit Contract to fail.


    Lin Shiming felt an immediate headache, as this phenomenon was not entirely unexpected. In the Beast Taming details from the Spirit Beast Sect, it was recorded that some powerful Spirit Beasts have a protective formation akin to a family spirit book by nature.


    If establishing a Blood Covenant, one cannot simply have a one-sided Binding Contract.


    The biggest advantage of a Binding Contract, as used with the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey, was that Lin Shiming could control the Spirit Beasts to die for him, and they could not resist.


    If the cultivator died, the Spirit Beast would also be bacsh-affected.


    On the contrary, if the Spirit Beast died, the cultivator would not be affected.


    Lu Changming, in the beginning, had used Binding Contracts to continuously control Spirit Beasts to block Old Demon Chen for him.


    Shaking his head with a wry smile, Lin Shiming continued to concentrate on another Spirit Contract. This new Spirit Contract was significantly less binding. A Spirit Beast, if it resisted fiercely regardless of severe injuries, could break free from the Spirit Contract.


    However, this Spirit Contract also bound the Spirit Beast from harboring malice towards the cultivator.


    For Lin Shiming, having his Cave Heaven World meant he wasn''t worried about the Spirit Beast breaking the Spirit Contract and escaping.


    Nheless, he still needed to find a more formidable Spirit Contract in the future to consolidate the agreement.


    This time, the Spirit Contract proceeded rtively smoothly.


    Although the spirit egg was still resisting, the power of this Spirit Contracty in its gradual enforcement. After all, the snake egg only had rudimentary thoughts, severelycking in cognitive ability; it was quickly outmaneuvered by the Spirit Contract.


    Apanied by a sh of Spirit Light, Lin Shiming felt a faint spiritual connection with the snake egg.


    To his chagrin, the snake egg immediately sent a wave of divine sense, demanding that he add more stones¡ªspecifically, Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    This divine sense fluctuation was much more pronounced than what he had experienced with the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey.


    This filled him with some delight, as the snake egg might already possess the body of a half-dragon, a starting point far superior to that of its Horned Python parents.


    As a spirit egg, it could absorb the spiritual energy from Superior Grade Spirit Stones, something unheard of to him before.


    Once the Superior Grade Spirit Stone was ced, the egg once again sent out a wave of Divine Sense, driving him away, which made Lin Shiming''s face darken involuntarily.


    However, upon reflecting, Lin Shiming took no further action and exited the Cave Heaven World, returning once more to the snake cave beneath the swamp.


    What excited him was that this snake cave had a Third Rank Intermediate Grade Spirit Vein.


    In due course, he could inform his Great Uncle and have the Spirit Vein moved.


    After surveying the area once more to ensure nothing was overlooked, Lin Shiming flew out of the swamp andnded in front of the other members of the Lin Family.


    "Great Uncle, I''ve obtained a snake egg that is useful for me. I''ll exchange it with the family Contribution Points!" Lin Shiming did not take out the Dragon Blood Grass and the egg, as these two items were of great importance. If others knew he possessed such an egg, even Purple Mansion cultivators might take action.


    After all, even if a Spirit Contract was already in ce with the egg, it was still possible to establish a new one.


    "No problem!" Lin Xianzhi was the first to respond.


    In this operation, whether it was the map or the effort, Lin Shiming contributed the most, so naturally, there were no issues, especially since he was using Contribution Points to make the exchange.


    Of course, Lin Shiming''s family Contribution Points were already the most abundant.


    The Lin Family members were more concerned about the cultivator''s cave abode.


    That was, after all, what the Lin Family had been anticipating the most on this trip.


    "Shiming, let''s go check out the cave abode!" Lin Xianzhi spoke again.


    Lin Shiming nodded, and then everyone headed toward the cave abode.


    The Spirit Formation originally located at the cave abode was clearly ancient. Lin Shiyun quickly found a weak spot in the Formation, which Lin Shiming then broke open with a single sword strike.


    What was revealed was a stone cave three meters high, appearing extremely ancient, with simple murals carved on the walls that they had not seen before.


    Lin Shiming summoned the Red-haired Demon Monkey and had it scout ahead, and then the group entered the depths of the cave abode.


    "Is this a hall?" After a short while, Lin Shiming and the others reached the deepest part, but there was neither the inheritance nor treasures they imagined.


    Instead, it was a hall constructed of some unknown materials.


    The hall was covered with a thickyer of dust.


    Lin Shiming cast a Wind Clearing spell to blow away the dust.


    "This is a Transmission Formation!" Lin Xianzhi suddenly eximed.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    At this remark, all the members of the Lin Family turned their gaze to Lin Xianzhi.


    All the cultivators of the Lin Family had heard of Transmission Formations, but had never seen one. It was known that even the Zhao Kingdom did not have a Transmission Formation; first, because the formation material, Void Nether Crystal, could not be found, and second, because the method ofying out the Transmission Formation had been lost.


    In the entire Cultivation World, only the method for creating Teleportation Talismans was still passed down, proving the past existence of Transmission Formations.


    "Great Uncle, there are several slots here, are these for cing Spirit Stones?" Lin Shiming walked up to a stone tform at one side and asked.


    Lin Xianzhi nodded and then took out an Intermediate Grade Spirit Stone and ced it in the slot. A stream of Spirit Light flowed, but the next moment, the Spirit Stone fell out, failing to activate.


    Then Lin Xianzhi took out a Superior Grade Spirit Stone, and only then did the slot emit a burst of blue light, causing the entire hall to gradually be brighter with a special luminescence.


    However, because three or four slots were still empty without Spirit Stones, the transmission was not activated.


    "It probably needs three Superior Grade Spirit Stones to activate," Lin Xianzhi dered.

 Chapter 226 The Sword Prepared for Your Son (Subscribe please)

    Before the Transmission Formation, a group of Lin Family cultivators looked at each other, perplexed.


    There was no cultivator''s dwelling, only a mysterious transmission formation whose destination was unknown.


    For the Lin Family, this was certainly not good news.


    Not to mention that the activation of the transmission formation required Superior Grade Spirit Stones, suggesting the distance was extraordinary, and the Lin Family cultivators naturally dared not teleport randomly to such an unknown location.


    If the other side was unupied, it might be fine, but if there were people present, it would undoubtedly be like amb walking into a tiger''s den.


    Of course, judging by the dust all over this ce and the long absence of human activity, one could surmise that the other side was likely uninhabited, or at least devoid of cultivators with Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    But with the unknown dangers present, the Lin Family cultivators dared not attempt it lightly.


    "Seventh Great Uncle, do we have any Teleportation Talismans?" Lin Shiming asked. This transmission formation was initially indicated by the sheepskin map, and no treasure had emerged so far, while the system''s hints mostly pertained to treasures.


    There was a high possibility that there were treasures on the other side of the transmission formation, but of course, Lin Shiming would not take the risk lightly. He could possibly use some exceedingly wicked Loose Cultivators to test it out.


    Especially since Lin Houyong of the Lin Family had captured several Loose Cultivators, who were still imprisoned in the dungeons of Nanling Mountain.


    "The family doesn''t have any, but we do possess the method to refine Teleportation Talismans. This type of Spirit Talisman isn''t particrlyplicated, simr to the Storage Bag. A Second Rank Talisman Master could refine it!" Lin Xianzhi shook his head, hisplexion had returned to calm.


    In his heart, no matter what great treasure might be on the other side of the transmission formation, he was unwilling to teleport.


    Listening to Lin Shiming, it seemed he had some thoughts about the other side of the transmission formation.


    To him, this appeared somewhat irrational.


    After hearing this, Lin Shiming nodded and then led the other somewhat disappointed Lin Family members out of the dwelling.


    There may not have been any treasures inside the dwelling, but within Poison Valley, there might be some rare Spiritual Objects worth searching for by the Lin Family cultivators.


    Of course, the most important was the Spirit Vein, a Third Rank Spirit Vein was still of great value to the Lin Family.


    After over half an hour, Lin Xianzhi had extracted the Spirit Vein; this vein was of intermediate quality within the Third Rank, not too powerful, and its existence alongside the horned python was also due to the marsnd.


    Meanwhile, Lin Houyong, Lin Yuqing, and others in the Poison Valley had each searched and found a few Third Rank Spirit Grasses, their expressions all lighting up with pleasure.


    Of course, the biggest gain of this trip was Lin Shiming''s serpent egg, Dragon Blood Grass, and the corpse of the highly poisonous horned python.


    Later, when refining the Dragon Blood Pills, some Lin Family cultivators who were just over sixty could use them to attempt Foundation Establishment.


    It was a pity that the horn of the horned python had not fully developed yet; otherwise, it would definitely have been material for refining a Magical Treasure.


    With the extraction of the Spirit Veinplete and the horned python gone, the noxious miasma of the entire Poison Valley visibly began to dissipate. Of course, the Spiritual Energy also began to scatter.


    In a few days, the area wouldpletely be ordinarynd, unlikely to attract any Demonic Beasts again.


    Before leaving, Lin Shiming contemted for a moment and took out the Heavenly Demon Bag, suddenly suctioning towards the mud of the marsnd.


    Of course, the real mud was absorbed into the Cave Heaven World.


    Once the serpent egg hatched, it might require this environment, so Lin Shiming decided to move it now, also preventing the emergence of more poisonous creatures here in the future.


    After the gathering, the Lin Family members boarded the Spirit Boat and headed directly back to their home.


    ...


    In Lingnan County, on Nanling Mountain.


    Lin Shiming was heading towards the Lin Family''s residence on Nanling Mountain.


    What used to be the Seven Fiends Mountain stronghold had now been developed by the Lin Family into a vast expanse of Spirit Fields, with two Spiritual Medicine Gardens also established.


    And the one stationed here was the former Fourth Elder of the Lin Family, now the head of the Artifact Refining Hall, Lin Yutie.


    "Fourth Grandfather!" Lin Shiming found Lin Yutie in a courtyard.


    At this moment, Lin Yutie was sitting on a chair, holding a jade slip, and in front of himy a wooden sword.


    He, too, showed signs of old age, with grey-white hair and a face etched with wrinkles, his expression weary.


    Yet his eyes meticulously studied, asionally using a carving knife to etch the wooden sword.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming inexplicably felt a twinge of difort. This scene, wasn''t it just like the one after Lin Yuqi had finished refining the Foundation Establishment Pill?


    He had learned from Lin Yuxuan that Lin Yutie''s prolonged refining of Third Rank magic artifacts had aged him significantly, but he hadn''t expected it to be to this extent.


    This Elder, who had dedicated his life to the Lin Family, even when the family had purposely sent him to rest in Nanling Mountain, remained so conscientious and dedicated to researching artifact refining.


    "Family Head is here? Why didn''t you send a message? So I coulde to greet you!" Lin Yutie put down the jade slip and wooden sword, slowly getting up.


    "Fourth Grandpa, you tter Shiming too much. Even if I were a Nascent Soul, I''m still your grandson. There''s no reason for you toe and greet me!" Lin Shiming came forward to help him, feeling Lin Yutie''s frailty. Continue reading at empire


    Lin Shiming immediately took out a Dragon Blood Pill.


    He had a total of four Dragon Blood Pills. He had given one to Lin Houshou and one to Lin Houyong, leaving two remaining.


    The Dragon Blood Pill was not an elixir to prolong life, but as Lin Yutie was only one hundred and seven years old and had not reached the lifespan of one hundred twenty of Qi Refining Cultivators, taking the Dragon Blood Pill would indeed prolong his life.


    But Lin Yutie shook his head, not taking the elixir.


    "Fourth Grandpa, this is just a pill that will help you better study artifact refining, bought by Shiming from the Spirit Beast Sect''s territory."


    Lin Yutie still shook his head.


    Then, looking at Lin Shiming, he squinted his eyes and smiled faintly.


    "Family Head, do you know what I am looking at?"


    Lin Shiming shook his head.


    "Looking at the future Purple Mansion Hermit, looking at the future Purple Mansion Family!"


    Lin Yutie said slowly, his eyes full of anticipation.


    "How strong the Lin Family will be at that time!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Lin Yutie mused, smiling.


    "Fourth Grandpa, of course!" Lin Shiming forcefully ced the pill in Lin Yutie''s hand.


    Seeing this, Lin Yutie did not decline further. After epting it, he chuckled and ced the pill bottle on the table, then patted his storage bag and took out a sword.


    The sword was three feet long and in the sunlight, its de was sharp and chilling. The spirit patterns on it were lifelike and incredibly beautiful.


    Lin Yutie flicked his finger on the sword, emitting a crisp and piercing ring, extremely pleasant to the ears.


    He gently closed his eyes, as if feeling the rhythm of the sword.


    Then, the Spirit Might dispersed, clearly revealing a Third Rank Intermediate Grade sword.


    This left Lin Shiming immensely astonished; Lin Yutie was just a Qi Cultivator, and even with the aid of the Formation Artifact Manual, refining an artifact of the Third Rank Inferior Grade should have been his limit.


    "Fourth Grandpa, did you refine this sword? You truly are the Lin Family''s foremost artifact refiner!"


    "Do you like it? This sword is named Zeying!" Lin Yutie spoke slowly.


    "However, this sword isn''t for you, it''s for your son!"


    "Fourth Grandpa is of no great use, only able to refine a Third Rank Intermediate Grade magic artifact. Otherwise, I would surely create a sword fit for the prodigies of the Lin Family!" Lin Yutie''s eyes held a hint of regret, then he couldn''t help but caress the Zeying Sword, his eyes brimming with affection.

 Chapter 227 Miner

    Lin Shiming stood rooted to the spot for a moment, touched by Lin Yutie''s care for him and feeling a deep sympathy for the older generation.


    Lin Yuqi had exhausted his efforts into forging Foundation Establishment Pills for the family, and Lin Yutie did the same, crafting this Intermediate Grade, Third Rank Magic Artifact without any reservations.


    The blood, sweat, and tears that went into this were unimaginable.


    He finally understood why Lin Yutie looked so aged.


    This was all for the sake of creating a sword that belonged to the Lin Family!


    Yet, he had expended all his effort, only to find that Lin Shiming had already reached the Middle Stage of Foundation Establishment, capable of contending with those at thetter stage, and even possessed a Supreme Grade, Third Rank Magic Artifact.


    At that moment, he might have felt some guilt¡­


    Lin Shiming thought to himself.


    Hismitment to the family strengthened once more in his heart.


    The dream of generation after generation of his family continued, and what he could do was to pick up the baton and make that dreame true.


    "Thank you, Fourth Great-Uncle, for Shiming''s child to have such a sword, one day he shall be a sword immortal of the Lin Family!" Lin Shiming said with a smile.


    Lin Yutie was also extremely happy, and after caressing the Zeying Sword onest time, he handed it over to Lin Shiming.


    Lin Shiming solemnly epted the sword.


    "Fourth Great-Uncle, remember to take the elixir. The family still has plenty of that kind of elixir!" Lin Shiming didn''t forget to remind him.


    Lin Yutie took the elixir, squinting his eyes, and tucked it into his Storage Bag.


    Only then did Lin Shiming feel at ease.


    "Fourth Great-Uncle, where are those Loose Cultivators imprisoned in Nanling Mountain?" Lin Shiming, after dealing with Lin Yutie''s matter, hadn''t forgotten the purpose of his trip.


    In his view, behind the Transmission Formation, there naturallyy a treasure trove.


    "This way!" Upon hearing Lin Shiming mention family affairs, Lin Yutie led him towards an exit of a cave in Nanling Mountain.


    The Array of Nanling Mountain was created with expensive banners purchased by the family, setting up a Third Rank Array.


    Under Lin Yutie''s guidance, they quickly arrived at a dungeon. Inside, seven or eight cultivators with yellowing faces and lean buildsy or sat listlessly.


    All of them had dim eyes; theck of Spiritual Energy for a long time made them appear somewhat aged.


    Since their attack on the Lin Family n territory had failed, this group had been prepared to die.


    However, they did not understand why the Lin Family had imprisoned them instead of executing them.


    But deep down, they held no hope for the Lin Family.


    Lin Shiming also examined all the cultivators, among them five at the Mid-stage of Qi Cultivation, two at the Later stage, and one at the Ninth Level of Qi Cultivation.


    If he hadn''t arranged for Lin Shijie to be there at the time, it might have been possible for these Loose Cultivators to seed, robbing Nanling Mountainpletely.


    "Fourth Great-Uncle, a vein of Golden Iron Crystal, a Third Rank spirit mineral, has been discovered in Stone Ridge Cave. The family needs these cultivators for mining!" Lin Shiming transmitted his voice to Lin Yutie.


    As one of the highest-ranked elders in the family, Lin Shiming naturally wouldn''t keep him in the dark.


    Even if the Gold Devouring Rat acknowledged its master and formed a Spirit Contract, it was still just a cub; its efficiency in mining at the early stages was naturally not high, while these captured Loose Cultivators were perfectly suited to be miners. Experience new tales on empire


    Upon hearing about the Third Rank spirit mine, Lin Yutie was overjoyed, genuinely happy for the family.


    One must know that the number of Foundation Establishment members of the Lin Family was not small.


    Six people had already broken through to Foundation Establishment, and three more were in seclusion attempting to break through. By then, the Lin Family''s demand for Third Rank Magic Artifacts would rise again significantly.


    Having a vein of Golden Iron Crystal meant that whether for the family''s internal needs or for external sales, it was tremendous news.


    This kind of spirit mine was, in a sense, the foundation of a family.


    It could bring prosperity for decades, or even over a hundred years.


    "Family Head, you truly are a blessing of the Lin Family!" Lin Yutie said with a smile again.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming also responded with a smile. It had been more than twenty years since thest time someone called him a blessing, back in Peach Blossom Valley!


    Lin Shiming took all nine loose cultivators away. With him, a Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Lin Family, not a single one of them dared to act rashly.


    Leading the nine loose cultivators, Lin Shiming headed straight for Stone Ridge Cave instead of returning to Fangmu Mountain.


    The Transmission Formation Talisman would be sent over by Lin Houyongter.


    Lin Xianzhi would return to hold down the fort at Fangmu Mountain.


    On the Spirit Boat, a group of Qi Cultivation loose cultivators wore gloomy expressions, having never imagined that their first ride on a third-rank superior-grade Spirit Boat would be under these circumstances.


    "Each of you behave. If you perform well, it doesn''t necessarily mean there''s no way out for you!" After Lin Shiming left these words, he released the Red-haired Demon Monkey to oversee the group of loose cultivators while he himself steered the Spirit Boat.


    Of course, if it wasn''t that the Red-haired Demon Monkey simply couldn''t handle steering the Spirit Boat, or do it steadily, he really would have liked to let the monkey steer so he could return to his room on the Spirit Boat and cultivate.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The higher one''s cultivation level became, the more one felt the bumpy and difficult road of Immortal Cultivation.


    Without great determination and the ability to endure loneliness, the path of Immortal Cultivation was truly fraught with difficulties.


    In the entire Cultivation World, there was no shortage of geniuses, yet why were Golden Core True Persons so rare?


    Among them, of course, were those with incredibly high talent, who couldn''t endure the solitude orcked firmness of mind.


    Just like these loose cultivators, who thought about taking risks to seek shortcuts every day, engaging in robberies and burries. With good luck, they could indeed leap to the skies, but there were not so many times when luck was on their side.


    Lin Shiming thought about many things for a moment, then shook his head and once again focused on steering the Spirit Boat.


    At the head of the Spirit Boat, the Spirit Shield was still not activated, allowing the brawl wind to beat upon his face and hair.


    In the eyes of the loose cultivators, however, the shock was even greater because at this moment, Lin Shiming''s body naturally radiated a faint golden light.


    This was clearly a sign of a Body Cultivation Foundation Establishment.


    The little remaining thought of escape they had also vanished.


    Even in their eyes, the Red-haired Demon Monkey swinging its tail with Strange Fire seemed to blink curiously at Lin Shiming.


    In its eyes, it seemed to wonder why Lin Shiming looked like a guard monkey of the mountain at this moment!


    ...


    With Lin Shiming''s arrival, Stone Ridge Cave also became lively.


    That very night, under the supervision of Lin Shijie, the nine loose cultivators were arranged to start mining.


    Golden Iron Stone was a small to medium-sized vein, and the extent of the Golden Iron Crystal vein hadn''t been fully confirmed yet, but even if it''s only the size of a micro vein, the Lin Family''s development for the next fifty years would be free of worries.


    The first task arranged was the straightforward mining of Golden Iron Stone.


    Lin Shiming was not surprised that the loose cultivators weren''t working quickly.


    Mining required freeing their cultivation levels; otherwise, they couldn''t mine at all. And once their cultivation levels were freed, the loose cultivators'' thoughts became active, with each of their eyes hiding a trace of cunning.


    They even thought through how they might take revenge on the Lin Family.


    In their view, the Lin Family did not have that many Foundation Establishment cultivators, and with their cultivation levels at hand, there was a great chance for them to find a way to survive.


    However, Lin Shiming was not at all unconcerned about this.


    With no Storage Bag, controlling the flow of Spiritual Energy from the Spirit Vein, plus only giving a few loose cultivators an inferior-grade Spirit Stone and having strict requirements on the output of Golden Iron Crystals and Golden Iron Stones, and with Lin Shijie guarding outside, nothing could go wrong.


    Of course, the most important thing was that the family had already begun preparing special Poison Pills. In time, each person would have to take one, leaving them no choice but to be honest.


    On the seventh day of mining, the cultivator who returned to the Lin Family arrived once again.


    This time, Lin Houyong led the team, and in addition, Lin Shiyun, Lei Xuan, Lin Shijin, and Lin Shizhong, who were new, also came.

 Chapter 228 The Mutation of the Mingxin Tea Tree

    Lin Shijin was the ninth of the Lin Family''s generation with the character "Shi" in their names. He had the triple Spirit Roots of metal, wood, and earth and had just barely reached the seventhyer of Qi Cultivation. His talent for cultivation was not particrly impressive, but he was nheless one of the few Second Rank Superior Grade Talisman Masters in the Lin Family.


    "Family Head!" Watching Lin Shiming at this moment, Lin Shijin was also somewhat excited.


    Lin Shiming had now be the pride of the Shi generation, and all Cultivators were aligning themselves with Lin Shiming. It wasn''t surprising to Lin Shijin.


    "Not bad, Shijin, I haven''t seen you for so many years, and you''ve already be a Second Rank Superior Grade Talisman Master!" Lin Shiming couldn''t help but praise his young ninth brother.


    Upon receiving such praise, Lin Shijin''s face was filled with happiness.


    However, Lin Houyong, who was alongside arranging the mining work, couldn''t help but step forward:


    "Family Head, the Seventh Great-Unclemanded that we should not attempt it lightly!"


    Lin Xianzhi still seemed somewhat worried. Even though he had sent Lin Shijin over, he couldn''t help but warn them.


    "Please rest assured, Fifth Uncle. Shiming understands!" Lin Shiming nodded in response, knowing the matter of the Transmission Formation was of great significance.


    The dangers of the other side were unclear to everyone.


    Find adventures on empire


    "By the way, Fifth Uncle, have you brought the Curseheart Pills? I also have great use for them!" Lin Shiming spoke up.


    Lin Houyong nodded and took out two Pill Bottles, one containing the Curseheart Pill and the other its antidote.


    It should be mentioned that this Curseheart Pill was actually obtained from Li Chengzhi by Lin Xianzhi, a gu poison Elixir. Those who swallowed it would suffer as though their hearts were eaten by a curse worm, and if they did not take the antidote within seven days, they would be consumed by the Curseheart, resulting in heart failure and death.


    "Thank you, Fifth Uncle!" Lin Shiming took the Elixirs and quickly expressed his thanks.


    As for the subsequent surveying and mining of the Golden Iron Crystal vein, and even managing the Loose Cultivator miners, all would be handled by his Fifth Uncle.


    Lin Shiming then took Lin Shijin and Lin Shizhong into a separate room by themselves.


    "Shijin, are you confident in crafting Teleportation Talismans?" Lin Shiming asked.


    "Yes!" Lin Shijin nodded, then added:


    "However, Family Head, I''ve never crafted Teleportation Talismans before, so there might be a certain rate of error!"


    "No matter," Lin Shiming nodded, and then turned to look at Lin Shizhong.


    At that moment, Lin Shizhong was surprisingly plump, and at the age of thirty-five, he had already reached the eighthyer of Qi Cultivation. Simultaneously, his proficiency in Artifact Refining had also reached the level of a Second Rank Superior Grade Artifact Refiner.


    ording to Lin Yutie, Lin Shizhong was sufficiently skilled with the Formation Artifact Manual to craft Third Rank Magic Artifacts.


    However, out of concern that using the Formation Artifact Manual might affect his vitality and hinder a Cultivator''s breakthrough to Foundation Establishment, they had not allowed Lin Shizhong to craft anything.


    "Shizhong, when the timees, Seventh Brother may need you to study an ancient Transmission Formation, to record and inscribe it, and also to find the quickest way to destroy a Transmission Formation and the means to repair it!" Lin Shiming solemnly spoke as he activated a formation that secluded Divine Sense.


    Although he himself had once aspired to be an Artifact Refiner, and had gained mastery until reaching the level of a Second Rank Inferior Grade Artifact Refiner, that was still far from enough to master a Transmission Formation.


    Lin Shizhong was startled at this moment. He knew he was here because Lin Shiming had summoned him, but he hadn''t expected it to be for studying an ancient Transmission Formation.


    This was naturally not simple for him.


    But likewise, if he mastered the Transmission Formation, the family would certainly support him in reaching Foundation Establishment.


    This was an opportunity!


    "Family Head, Shizhong is willing to give it a try!" Lin Shizhong nodded, his eyes resolute.


    Just like more than twenty years ago, when he stepped forward to the Spirit Testing te at the ascension conference.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming also rxed a bit and then immediately set out, taking Lin Shijin and Lin Shizhong with him to rush towards Poison Valley.


    The Teleportation Talisman was crucial for whether the Transmission Formation could teleport someone, so Lin Shiming naturally let Lin Shijin investigate it as well.


    Otherwise, if the Teleportation Talisman did not align with the Transmission Formation, it would be a blunder.


    After all, the purpose of the Teleportation Talisman was to reduce the pressure of the void''spression during teleportation.


    A mere Second Rank Spirit Talisman naturally could not withstand the pressure, rather it was the Teleportation Talisman that could activate the protective device within the Transmission Formation, safeguarding the cultivators within from the void''s cuts.


    The three entered Poison Valley once more.


    The miasma in Poison Valley had dissipated much further; now, it looked as if the valley was shrouded in a thinyer of ck mist.


    Moreover, this ck mist was gradually diminishing with the sunlight.


    If Lin Shiming had not visited Poison Valley before, he would hardly believe this was the same ce.


    Without the venomous Horned Pythons emitting miasma, this valley might even turn into a swampy valley full of birdsong and floral fragrances in the future.


    The trio arrived outside the cave dwelling; the Formation showed no signs of damage by any Spirit Beasts, which put Lin Shiming at ease. He cast a few Spirit Arts to deactivate the Formation and then led Lin Shijin and Lin Shizhong inside.


    Before the Transmission Formation, both of them became quite sentimental, carefully scrutinizing everything from the teleportation tform to the location where the Spirit Stones were engraved.


    Both of them were extremely serious in their inspection; however, Lin Shizhong examined every Spirit Pattern and each inch of material in therge Transmission Formation, while Lin Shijinpared it to the Teleportation Talisman in his memory.


    Lin Shiming did not disturb the two but instead took out a meditation cushion and began quietly cultivating.


    What he did not expect was that in his Cave Heaven World, the Mingxin Tea Tree suddenly began to sway.


    Lin Shiming immediately went to a corner of the stone chamber, took out a separate Formation that isted himself from Lin Shizhong and Lin Shijin, and then entered the Cave Heaven World.


    At this moment, every leaf and branch of the Mingxin Tea Tree began to shine brightly.


    The wood demon in charge of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, who was nted nearby, also seemed to enter a trance, closing its eyes as if it were an old monk in meditation.


    The Spiritual Energy within the Spirit Vein surged frantically toward the tea tree, startling the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis from afar.


    Over by the snake eggs, the wave of Divine Sense approached Lin Shiming once again, its anxious emotions fixated on its Superior Grade Spirit Stone.


    It even angrily demanded that Lin Shiming hit the Mingxin wood demon.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    This left Lin Shiming somewhat at a loss betweenughter and tears. After inserting two more Superior Grade Spirit Stones into the vicinity of the snake eggs, the snake egg''s divine thoughts finally calmed down a bit.


    As soon as the storm of Spiritual Energy ended, dark clouds appeared in the sky.


    This left Lin Shiming extremely surprised; the Mingxin Tea Tree and the Jin Lei Bamboo indeed earned him a glimpse of their reputation.


    But the next moment, what left him caught betweenughter and tears was the appearance of lightning shing amidst the dark clouds in the sky, hidden and visible intermittently.


    The sound of rumbling thunder began to resound¡ªespecially oppressive.


    At this moment, Lin Shiming''s gaze became solemn. As the Mingxin Tea Tree was merely breaking through to the Third Rank, yet it had somehow attracted Heavenly Tribtion; this seemed rather sinister to him.


    But at the same time, he was concerned that the Mingxin Tea Tree might be struck dead by a thunderous st of the Heavenly Tribtion.


    He contacted the wood demon with his Divine Sense, only to find that it did not convey any anxious emotions, but instead, a sense of anticipation.


    This reassured Lin Shiming.


    However, in the next instant, he saw that the area where the Jin Lei Bamboo was growing also began to glow brightly, and the two-to-three meters tall Jin Lei Bamboo started to sway as well.


    This made Lin Shiming even more puzzled!

 Chapter 229 Rebirth After the Disaster

    The dark clouds in the sky, as if enraged, grew denser and more massive.


    The entire Cave Heaven World began to visibly darken before our very eyes.


    The frequency of the thunder rumbling in the sky increased, and the air grew more and more oppressive.


    The tree demon, unbeknownst to when, had returned to its original form, with only a tree face visible on its trunk.


    The next moment, apanied by a muffled thunderp, the whole sky suddenly brightened.


    Boom!


    A bolt of lightning violently struck the Mingxin Tea Tree, sending up a trail of ck smoke. A torrent of lightning scattered across the sky, crackling and buzzing in the air, with electric shes wreaking havoc all around.


    The entire Mingxin Tea Tree was split in half in an instant, charred and ckened.


    Countless blue arcs of electricity began to rampage across the ground, eventually being absorbed by the Golden Thunder Bamboo Spirit Root.


    Lin Shiming, watching from a distance, now had an extremely grim expression. He hadn''t expected the Mingxin Tea Tree tost not even a moment, and that the tree demon had just sent a confident thought to him.


    He reached out with his Spirit Contract and, to his surprise, discovered that the tree demon''s divine sense had not disappeared.


    On the other end of the Spirit Contract, he only sensed an extremely immature divine sense fluctuation.


    At this moment, he suddenly realized the situation. The Mingxin Tea Tree he had contracted was a sapling full of vitality and unlimited hope!


    Lin Shiming''s expression changed dramatically, and he stared intently at the original body of the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    From within the split and charred branches, suddenly, a tender shoot emerged from the dead wood, evidently reborn through the power of the lightning.


    This shoot was still very tender and small, almost unnoticeable unless looked at closely.


    In this moment, Lin Shiming came to a realization. The Mingxin Tea Tree had been suppressed to a Second Rank in the Yellow Grade Secret Realm from the start, and by the time he had taken it out, the tree had already be extremely decrepit, much like a cultivator who had exhausted his vitality.


    Without the suppression, it could not grow into a Third Rank tree on its own.


    If nothing unexpected happened, the Mingxin Tea Tree would sooner orter die of old age, but within the Golden Thunder Bamboo, the tree demon had found a sliver of a chance for rebirth after a cmity.


    And today, with the help of Heavenly Thunder, it shed all traces of death and was reborn anew.


    This action was extremely risky, as even a slight mishap could have resulted in utter destruction, just like a cultivator over sixty who attempts to forcefully break through to Foundation Establishment without using a Foundation Establishment Pill, facing a nine in ten chance of death.


    Seeing that the divine soul on the other end of the Spirit Contract was unharmed and even though the tree demon had not shown itself, Lin Shiming let go of his worries. However, he was puzzled by the fact that


    the storm clouds in the sky were still gathering, and the lightning continued to roll, showing no signs of dissipating.


    It was as if the fury had not subsided, intent on continuing to destroy the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    This caused him to be tense once again; the young tea tree could not withstand being struck by lightning, and he was not confident in his ability to protect it.


    Boom!


    The next moment, lightning struck again, but this time it did not strike the Mingxin Tea Tree but the Golden Thunder Bamboo instead.


    The entire Golden Thunder Bamboo, along with its Spirit Root, was bathed in blue lightning, illuminating the whole area.


    Electric arcs sizzled and crackled, turning the hundred meters radius around the Golden Thunder Bamboo into a scorchednd of thunder.


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey and Golden Winged Mantis, unknown to when, had already run behind Lin Shiming.


    Even the Golden Winged Mantis felt some trepidation towards the Heavenly Thunder, not to mention the Red-haired Demon Monkey, who continually stuck out its head and clutched at Lin Shiming''s clothes hem, howling anxiously.


    It kept urging Lin Shiming to move back.


    Even the snake egg exuded an extreme sense of fear, attempting to persuade Lin Shiming to carry it away.


    Lin Shiming also picked up the snake egg and, along with the two beasts, began to retreat towards the edge. Since the Heavenly Thunder was baptizing the Golden Thunder Bamboo, his worries dissipated.


    Golden Thunder Bamboo is inherently of the thunder attribute, and Heavenly Thunder is nothing more than nourishment to it.


    It is said that a ten-thousand-year-old Golden Thunder Bamboo requires several bolts of Heavenly Thunder each day.


    Only after three sessive bolts of Heavenly Thunder did the dark clouds disperse contentedly.


    At this moment, within the area of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, electric arcs continued to circte, and the terrifying electrical stars, even a mere stter of them,pletely obliterated the nearby Spirit Grass, leaving nothing but ashes.


    But to the main body of the Golden Thunder Bamboo, they couldn''t cause even the slightest damage.


    It was as though it had absorbed nutrients, and suddenly grew another two to three feet taller.


    Moreover, to his surprise, a new shoot emerged from the spirit root of the nearby Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    Clearly, the previously thirty-year-old Golden Thunder Bamboo was unable to absorb all the thunder energy, and the overflowing power of thunder prompted the growth of a new shoot.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The rampage of the thunder continued for half an hour before it slowly subsided.


    Lin Shiming first approached the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    The newly grown Mingxin Tea Tree was only about a meter tall, with few leaves, but they were extremely lustrous and clear, brimming with spiritual energy.


    It had obviously broken through the Second Rank and be a Third Rank Spiritual Tea Tree.


    The Wood Demon had still not appeared, but from within the Spirit Contract, a wave of reassuring emotion emanated.


    Lin Shiming was not in a hurry. He cultivated the tea tree with his Purple Wood True Essence and then brought some Spirit Soil over from the side.


    After tending to the Mingxin Tea Tree, he turned towards the Golden Thunder Bamboo.


    The Golden Thunder Bamboo was growing extremely well at this moment, having gained several years'' worth of growth seemingly for free after the Heavenly Tribtion, and of course, the biggest gain was the new shoot that had sprouted.


    Lin Shiming, following custom, also catalyzed and cultivated the Golden Thunder Bamboo for a while before exiting the Cave Heaven World extremely satisfied.


    Inside the great hall.


    Lin Shiming deactivated the formation and found Lin Shizhong still immersed in his research, holding a Jade Slip in his hands, constantly making records while also pulling out spiritual materials andparing them.


    Meanwhile, Lin Shijin had unknown when started a secluded retreat in a new chamber he had carved out nearby, beginning the creation of talismans.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming too chose a spot and began to close his eyes and cultivate the Purple Wood Heart Sutra.


    A month passed in the blink of an eye, and Lin Shiming opened his eyes.


    He stepped out of the chamber.


    Outside the chamber, Lin Shijin and Lin Shizhong were already waiting, Lin Shijin excited and Lin Shizhong looking somewhat dejected.


    "Family Head, the Teleportation Talismans have been sessfully crafted!" Lin Shijin presented three Spirit Talismans, handing them over to Lin Shiming respectfully.


    "Good job, Shijin, you''ve contributed greatly to the family!" After inspecting the Spirit Talismans, Lin Shiming praised him, overflowing with satisfaction.


    Lin Shizhong then spoke somewhat despondently,


    "Family Head, the Transmission Formation is tooplex. Shizhong is dull and wasn''t able toplete the inscription. I could only manage to damage and restore a corner on the exterior of the Gathering Spirit tform, but I can''t understand the central formation!"


    Having said this, Lin Shizhong lowered his head.


    "Will the damage affect the teleportation?" Lin Shiming asked.


    Breaking the formation served as a defensive measure to prevent the other side from teleporting over, whereas restoring the formation ensured that the family could resume it at any time.


    "It will affect the use of Teleportation Talismans and Transmission Orders. Ordinary cultivators would be crushed by the forces of space, but a Golden Core True Person might survive unscathed," responded Lin Shizhong, hesitating before replying earnestly.


    "That''s enough then, Shizhong, you''ve contributed as well!" Lin Shiming nodded. It was sufficient if they could prevent ordinary Purple Mansion cultivators, and as for Golden Core True Persons, such beings would likely be preempted by the system''s warnings.


    "Let''s go, head back and prepare the materials!"

 Chapter 230 Island Conspiracy

    Stone Ridge Cave, with the development of the Lin Family, had already seen arge row of underground stone chambers.


    Besides Lin Houyong, Lin Shijie and other cultivators who were already present, the Lin Family had once again summoned some more cultivators.


    The entire Lin Family now had over four hundred cultivators, which was five to six times more than when Lin Shiming first became the Family Head.


    Previously, due to theck of high-levelbat power in the n during the war, the mines, markets, and trade caravans had all been in a state of cessation.


    Now that the cultivators of Yunzhou had all returned, although many loose cultivators had fallen, the market had also begun to recover, and the Lin Family naturally wanted to seize the opportunity.


    The family''s Artifact Refining Pavilion was operating at full capacity, requiring a substantial amount of Golden Iron Stone as well.


    In Lin Houyong''s stone chamber, Lin Shiming used his divine sense to scan the surroundings, found Lin Shijie was not there, and asked,


    "Uncle Wu, has the Golden Iron Crystal already been mined?"


    "Mhm, Family Head, it has already begun. With the Huang Family and the Li Family gone, the Third Rank Magic Artifact market in Qingyun Market is vast. Now, besides Lin Shizhong, our family already has two cultivators who can refine Third Rank Magic Artifacts!" Lin Houyong said with some excitement.


    For some unknown reason, the Qian Family of Yunzhou had remained silent and had been particrly low-profile over the past few years.


    In the entire Yunzhou, they, the Lin Family, were now considered a major n, with most of the shops in Qingyun Market in their hands.


    Besides the portions given to Zi Xuan Hermit and Great Cultivator Xie, the Lin Family''s revenue was extremely considerable, indirectly increasing the spiritual forest for their Foundation Establishment cultivators. Now, the Lin Family had six Foundation Establishment cultivators, with three more in seclusion.


    It was natural and imperative to mine the Golden Iron Crystals!


    Lin Shiming nodded. In the past decade, the family had made full progress in both artifact refining and alchemy.


    Adding on the profits from Monkey Wine, and earnings from delicacies such as Spirit Fish and Demonic Alligators, the family had not only avoided financial issues with so many new cultivators but had also be subtly wealthier.


    After discussing family affairs with Lin Houyong for a while, Lin Shiming then made his way towards the underground mine.


    He quickly found Lin Shijie in the mine rich with Golden Iron Crystals and took two cultivators with him.


    One of them was an old man with the surname Chen who was at the Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and a cultivator with the surname Xu.


    Lin Shiming took the two men, along with Lin Shijin and Lin Shizhong, and headed towards Poison Valley once again.


    ...


    In the great hall of Poison Valley, with the appearance of the Transmission Formation, both loose cultivators were shocked.


    Although they had never seen a Transmission Formation, they had certainly heard of its reputation.


    Particrly since Lin Shiming had brought them here secretly, they both began to feel uneasy.


    "You two are smart men. Head to the other side of the Transmission Formation, gather intelligence, and you must return in half a day!"


    "Otherwise, the Curseheart Pill will take effect, and you don''t want to see the consequences of the Curseheart bug''s outbreak, do you?"


    Lin Shiming took out two bottles of the Curseheart Pill''s antidote.


    The old man with the surname Chen and the cultivator with the surname Xu both ingested the Curseheart Pill, which had been administered precisely six days prior, meaning if they could not return on time, the Curseheart bug curse would be triggered.


    "Elder Lin, the other side of this Transmission Formation¡­" The old man with the surname Chen was the first to react, his face showing a hint of difficulty.


    "Quit the haggling. Are you going, or are you not? Elder Lin still has time to find recements!" Lin Shiming''s gaze suddenly turned sharp, and the two men were struck with immense fear, promptly kneeling down.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming took out three Superior Grade Spirit Stones and handed them to the old man with the surname Chen.


    The rich spiritual energy rxed thetter''s expression, revitalizing his spirit.


    This was the first time the two had seen Superior Grade Spirit Stones, and their eyes showed avid greed. But they quickly suppressed it, and it disappeared from sight.


    "These are your Superior Grade Spirit Stones for when you return!" Lin Shiming instructed them further.


    He then took out four Teleportation Talismans and handed them over to the two men.


    Taking the Spirit Stones and Teleportation Talismans, they stepped onto the transmission tform.


    Lin Shiming then ced the Superior Grade Spirit Stones on the array.


    As the three Spirit Stones were embedded, streams of Spirit Light began to circte, forming a web that covered towards the center of the transmission tform.


    One after another, Spirit Patterns emerged, like a shimmering vast starry sky, dazzling and splendid.


    Lin Shizhong, standing to the side, continually recorded the process with a Jade Slip, while Lin Shijin''s expression was extremely solemn.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Whether the Teleportation Talisman would work was also a test of his ability to refine Spirit Talismans.


    Even Lin Shiming felt a bit nervous at this moment, as the system prompt he imagined did not appear.


    "Shizhong, prepare to destroy the Transmission Formation if necessary!" Lin Shiming conveyed to Lin Shizhong with extreme seriousness.


    If enemies were toe through the transmission from the other side, the prearranged method to sabotage the Transmission Formation would need to be initiated immediately.


    As a re of sparkling light appeared, their eyes experienced a momentary blindness.


    The next instant, the light faded, and along with it, two Loose Cultivators vanished.


    And upon the transmission tform, the luminescence of the three Superior Grade Spirit Stones dimmed by one-tenth, indicating that they were only sufficient for ten transmissions.


    This time, even Lin Shiming felt somewhat pained by the loss.


    He didn''t have many Superior Grade Spirit Stones, and if the other side of the transmission formation turned out unprofitable or dangerous, it would mean wasting at least three Superior Grade Spirit Stones.


    Of course, what he should be most concerned about at this moment was the potential crisis that might arise.


    Lin Shiming casually summoned both the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey, awaiting any eventuality with a grave expression.


    All three of them had longmitted to memory the parts of the Transmission Formation that could be fixed and those that needed to be destroyed, and if a powerful enemy were to arrive, Lin Shiming wouldn''t hesitate to destroy the entire transmission tform.


    ...


    In an underground hall, which was exceedingly dim, devoid of any light.


    A momentter, a surge of intense white light appeared, and both the elderly man surnamed Chen and the cultivator surnamed Xu appeared together.


    Dizzy, they clutched tightly to the Superior Grade Spirit Stones and the Teleportation Talisman, only revealing an expression of resentment after confirming there was no danger nearby.


    Lin Shiming had used them as cannon fodder to scout ahead, and what''s worse, he hadn''t even allowed them to negotiate terms.


    "Chen, are you really content working for the Lin Family, here at the other end of the Transmission Formation?" The cultivator surnamed Xu asked first, unable to contain his rage, even kicking the transmission hall violently with his foot.


    However, he dared not use his full strength, fearing that damaging the Transmission Formation would lead to a torturous death by the Curseheart Gu.


    "Of course not. We''ll find an opportunity to retaliate, even if it kills us, and ensure the Lin Family doesn''t get off easily. A mere boy with high talent, yet he likely hasn''t faced much adversity!" the elderly man surnamed Chen scoffed in disdain.


    After exchanging nces, they extended their Divine Sense outward.


    "Is this an ind in the sea? Have we arrived on the territory of the Heavenly Demon Sect of Chu Country?" The cultivator surnamed Xu eximed in surprise.


    "No, it seems to be the Outer Sea, there are no traces of cultivators'' movements here. This ind even has a clear presence of a Second Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein!" the elderly man surnamed Chen replied.


    Then the two, using the Earth Escape Skill, made for the ind.


    "There are so many resources on this ind!" the cultivator surnamed Xu soon eximed again in amazement!


    The ind was not small, with a vast expanse of Spirit Coconut Trees along the beach radiating intense Spirit Light. From time to time, a beast bird would peck at the Spirit Coconuts, and the rest of the Spiritual Medicines on the ind were also plentiful, resembling a Secret Realm.


    "Indeed, this kind of ce is perfect for both of us to undergo arduous cultivation!" said the elderly man surnamed Chen, brimming with delight!


    "Xu, we just need to figure out how to kill a few of the young bird beasts to draw out the Third Rank birds. Then, when we give our statements together, we''ll get Lin Shiming toe here and let them fight a battle to the death!"


    "Right, Lin Shiming never intended to give us the antidote to the Curseheart Pill from the very beginning; we can''t let him off that easily!" the cultivator surnamed Xu nodded in agreement.


    After calibrating their testimonies, the two started to take action...

 Chapter 232 Salary Crisis

    Atop Fangmu Mountain, Lin Yuzheng was currently sporting a headache. The family n was about to start a new n meeting, and it was one that Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi, and other family elders were returning for, marking it thergest n meeting in nearly a decade.


    Yet, they faced the problem of distributing spiritual medicine as rewards, which made Lin Yuzheng sigh.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Although the family had earned a substantial amount of Spirit Stones, the number of cultivators in the Lin Family had grown iparably, including six at the Foundation Establishment level.


    A ray of Spirit Light appeared, signaling a Transmission Talisman.


    Lin Yuzheng immediately put down the Jade Slip in his hand and rushed to the Qinglian Pool on Fangmu Mountain.


    The current Qinglian Pool, nourished by a Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Vein, was blooming even more brilliantly, with meticulously crafted lotus flowers dotting the surface of the pool, from which the Lin Family harvested quite a few lotus seeds each year.


    Next to the Qinglian Pool, the cool pavilion was already bustling with figures.


    By the time Lin Yuzheng arrived, Lin Shiming approached him.


    Although he still looked to be in his early twenties, Lin Shiming had long shed his youthful naivety and moved with an ineffable authority in every action.


    Aside from those in closed-door cultivation for Foundation Establishment and those stationed at Stone Ridge Cave, the rest of the Elders and Hall Masters had all arrived.


    Lin Houshou was in seclusion to break through to Foundation Establishment, and the current master of the Formation Hall was a Second Rank, Superior Grade Array Master from the younger "Hou" generation, Lin Houqian, who, despite his youth, sported a small goatee.


    The Alchemy Hall Master was still Lin Houxuan, while the Artifact Refining Hall Master was a Second Rank, Supreme Grade Artifact Refiner from the younger "Hou" generation, Lin Houfei, who was serving temporarily. Lin Houfei, the son of Lin Yutie, had a Four Spirit Root aptitude, not particrly strong, but waspetent in artifact refining.


    With guidance from Lin Yutie since childhood and his status as a Second Rank, Supreme Grade Artifact Refiner, there were no objections to him holding the position.


    The Law Enforcement Hall Master was still Lin Yuqing, the Demon Hunting Hall Master was Lin Houyong, the n''s Commerce Hall Head was Lin Yuzheng, and because the hall concerning the family''s Treasure Pavilion was a sensitive matter, the real person in charge was Lin Shijie''s father, Lin Houyuan.


    Currently, the hall had only a Deacon and was not represented at the meeting, but Lin Houyuan, who had yet to start his seclusion, was reporting on its behalf.


    In addition to this, the Lin Family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators, Lin Xianzhi and Lin Shitao, who had just broken through and emerged from seclusion, were also present.


    Lin Xianzhi still had a full head of white hair, and his eyes bore a hint of twilight years. The Dragon Blood Pill could activate Lin Xianzhi''s bloodline, but without Life-Extending Elixirs, it was still impossible to extend the Seventh Great-Uncle''s lifespan.


    Lin Shitao, on the other hand, had long ck hair and a fair face, resembling a celestial maiden unaffected by the mortal world, looking at Lin Shiming and smiling softly all the while.


    She did not call out "Seventh Brother," but the pride on her face was evident.


    Not only was she a Foundation Establishment Early Stage cultivator, but she was also an Intermediate Grade Third Rank Alchemist. If she were to implement the Formation Artifact Manual, even refining Third Rank Superior Grade elixirs was within the realm of possibility.


    The Lin Family had captured a highly poisonous Horned Python, a creature that almost qualified as a Dragon Beast, so they could indeed refine Dragon Blood Pills; it''s just that the Lin Family temporarilycked the pill recipe for it.


    If Lin Shiming was to achieve greatness in the Great Dao, then Lin Shitao would aid him in achieving greatness in the Great Dao!


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, respected uncles and Elders, I have summoned you here today for two important matters!"


    "Firstly, to understand the current state of the family and prepare for the n meeting!"


    "Secondly, the familypetition will be held to review the aplishments of the n over the past decade!"


    Lin Shiming exined each point. He had initially only thought of seeking out the Seventh Great-Uncle to gather the n members for a trip to the inds in the Outer Sea, but to his surprise, his father came to him to inform him of the n meeting.


    Lin Shiming thus convened this meeting. The Lin Family n already had more than five hundred members, and could no longer, as in the past, instantly announce any family rules or collectively discuss all strategies.


    This was also what Lin Shiming saw as a future trend for the Lin Family, with the Family Head at the helm and the various halls executing ns.


    "I invite each hall master and elder to report one by one," Lin Shiming said before turning to look at Lin Yuqing.


    As the Master of the Law Enforcement Hall and the former Great Elder of the family, he began the reporting:


    "Reporting to the Family Head, Seventh Great-Uncle, under the wise governance of the Family Head, the Lin Family now has a total of five hundred and twenty-one cultivators, among which are six Foundation Establishment Cultivators, an increase of onepared to ten years ago, twenty-three Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Cultivators, an increase of thirteenpared to ten years ago, fifty-two Qi Cultivation Late Stage Cultivators, an increase of thirtypared to ten years ago, one hundred and twenty Qi Cultivation Middle Stage Cultivators, an increase of fortypared to ten years ago, and two hundred Qi Cultivation Early Stage Cultivators, an increase of one hundredpared to ten years ago, and one hundred and twenty Innate Cultivators!"


    "Among them, Lin Shilei, a cultivator with an exotic Spirit Root, has secretly been listed as a key support object by the family. Lei Xuan, a cultivator with an exotic Spirit Root who married into the family, has also been listed as a key support object. There are five Dual Spirit Root Cultivators, among whom are Seventh Great-Uncle Lin Xianzhi, Lin Shitao, Lin Shijie, Lin Zekong, and Lin Zecheng.


    Lin Zekong, the eldest of the Lin Family''s Ze generation, is sixteen years old with water and wood Dual Spirit Roots, and is at the Fourth Level of Qi Cultivation. Lin Zecheng is the third eldest of the Lin Family''s Ze generation, with fire and earth Dual Spirit Roots, and is also at the Fourth Level of Qi Cultivation. In addition, there are fifty-two cultivators with Third Spirit Roots!"


    "Among them, due to the invasion by the Demon Sect, ie has decreased, and the family''s stipends for the cultivators have been halved over the past three years!"


    After Lin Yuqing finished reporting, it was Lin Yuzheng''s turn to report on the family''s financial ie:


    "Family Head, Seventh Great-Uncle, the Lin Family''s current financial ie includes Monkey Wine, Red Spirit Fish, Blood Crocodile, Green Lotus Seeds, Square Market ie, Alchemy and Artifact Refining ie, Golden Iron Stone ie, Spiritual Medicine Garden ie, Mingxin Tea Tree ie, and Spirit Water from the Qinglian Pool, for a total of ten categories of ie."


    "Among them, it is predicted that the Spirit Stone ie from the Spirit Water of the Qinglian Pool will increase again, reaching three thousand Spirit Stones annually, a thousand more than before.


    It is estimated that the Spirit Peach Treebined with Monkey Wine will yield an average of ten thousand Spirit Stones each year, five thousand more than before, but the existing stock of Monkey Wine and even the Spirit Peaches have all been distributed as stipends.


    The Xing County Square Market, alongside the Qingyun Square Market and Lingnan County''s Lingnan Square Market, are all flourishing now, and it is estimated that the rental ie from the shops alone can reach ten thousand Spirit Stones per year. Due to the long cultivation time, it is estimated that the Red Spirit Fish and Blood Crocodile can yield ten thousand Spirit Stones each year.


    Each year''s ie from Green Lotus Seeds is five thousand Spirit Stones, four thousand more than before. As the scale of Alchemy and Artifact Refining has expanded and can now produce Third Rank Elixirs and Magic Artifacts, the profit has increased and is estimated at fifty thousand Spirit Stones each year.


    The Golden Iron Stone vein yields an ie of ten thousand per year, and if the Golden Iron Crystal vein is mined, it is expected to increase the yield by an additional fifty thousand. The ie from Mingxin Tea Trees will be a bit less, only four thousand Spirit Stones each year."


    "In total, it is anticipated that the Spirit Stone ie will reach one hundred and fifty thousand Spirit Stones annually!"


    As Lin Yuzheng spoke, the rest of the family''s cultivators also inhaled sharply before expressing their delight. Even without a Golden Iron Crystal vein, the family''s ie had already reached one hundred thousand Spirit Stones annually.


    This ie already far exceeded many Foundation Establishment families. Even therge Foundation Establishment families in Qingzhou could notpare. In fact, everyone felt that they were not far behind the Purple Mansion Family.


    However, the next moment, Lin Houyuan frowned and spoke again:


    "Family Head, Seventh Great-Uncle, because of the family stipend n, the family''s remaining Spirit Stones are actually not that abundant!"


    "The Lin Family now has a basic family stipend of twenty Spirit Stones annually for Qi Cultivation Early Stage, fifty for Qi Cultivation Middle Stage Cultivators, one hundred Spirit Stones annually for Qi Cultivation Late Stage Cultivators, two hundred for Qi Cultivation Ninth Level Cultivators, one thousand annually for Foundation Establishment Early Stage Cultivators, two thousand annually for Foundation Establishment Middle Stage Cultivators, and three thousand annually for Foundation Establishment Late Stage Cultivators!"


    "Among them, Qi Cultivation Early Stage cultivators who progress by two levels in three years, Qi Cultivation Middle Stage cultivators who progress by one level in three years, and Qi Cultivation Late Stage cultivators who progress by one level in six years will all be double stipend cultivators.


    Additionally, those with Four Spirit Roots, Quintuple Spirit Roots, and those who leap two grades will be triple stipend cultivators."


    "Qi Cultivation Ninth Level and Foundation Establishment Cultivators all receive double stipends!"


    "Furthermore, there are additional family reproduction support stipends!"


    "Along with extra stipends for certain family positions, a total of sixty thousand Spirit Stones are needed, and this does not even include the one hundred and twenty Innate Cultivators who may break through to Qi Cultivation Early Stage at any time!"


    And finally, the Lin Family members understood why the family had to halve the stipends in the previous years.


    Simply put, they could not afford the stipends for more than five hundred family members.


    Although the great war had ended and many projects had been revived, yielding considerable family ie, if this continued, with Innate Cultivators entering Qi Cultivation Early Stage and more and more children being discovered with Immortal Roots, the family''s Spirit Stones would sooner orter face another crisis!

 Chapter 233 The Grand Tournament Concludes

    All the Elders and Hall Masters couldn''t help but turn their attention to Lin Shiming.


    The policy of double and triple sries was proposed by Lin Shiming, and the overall effect seemed to be excellent. The Lin Family not only saw an increase in Dual Spirit Root Cultivators, but also the emergence of unusual Spirit Roots, especially the Third Spirit Roots, which had increased by arge number.


    In the past, such proportions were unthinkable, not to mention urring within a mere twenty-some years.


    All these had been brought about by Lin Shiming to the family.


    At the same time, the change in cultivation level within the family in the past decade had also far exceeded previous times.


    Cultivators of immortal cultivation should be indifferent to fame and fortune, but that does not mean being aloof from worldly affairs. Embarking on the path of cultivation means constantlypeting with others and with the heavens.


    The incentives of the Lin Family were precisely what thoroughly stimted the diligent hearts of the Lin Family n''s children.


    However, these policies were also consuming arge amount of the family''s resources.


    Cancelling or limiting these policies would cause a sensation within the Lin Family n.


    Given the current situation, although the Lin Family''s finances could support it, if the Golden Iron Crystal mines were to be exhausted in the future, financial difficulties would arise again.


    Moreover, presently, three people from the Lin Family are in closed-door Foundation Establishment; Lin Houwei of the "Hou" generation being the thirteenth, Lin Houshou of the "Hou" generation being the second, and Lin Shiyi of the "Shi" generation being the second. If their Foundation Establishment were to be sessful, the family''s sries would once again increase.


    Furthermore, if the family''s Foundation Establishment cultivators require the family to refine Third Rank elixirs and Magic Artifacts, the Lin Family''s financial ie will be affected as well.


    It must be understood that Third Rank elixirs and Magic Artifacts are not something that can bepleted in a few days; they often require months of refining, and in the absence of a real Third Rank Artifact Refiner, refining a Third Rank Magic Artifact can deplete a cultivator''s life force.


    "The double and triple sries will remain unchanged, and the family''s birth policy will also remain the same!"


    Facing the many gazes, Lin Shiming spoke calmly:


    "In addition, the family''s Artifact Refiners and Alchemists still need to be vigorously cultivated.


    From now on, any elixirs or magic artifacts refined by family cultivators outside of the Earth Fire Hall will be bought by the family at a price that is ny percent above market price, and the spiritual materials and objects consumed will only need to be purchased from the family at fifty percent of the market price!"


    The words of Lin Shiming once again shocked all the Elders and Hall Masters.


    If so, the family''s Artifact Refiners and Alchemists would have even greater earnings, but this also meant that the family''s ie would decrease.


    But before they could recover from their shock, Lin Shiming had already spoken again:


    "In addition to the Alchemy and Artifact Refining Hall, the family needs to establish a Spirit nt hall, a Talisman Making hall, and a Teaching hall!"


    "Like the Artifact Refiners and Alchemists, the Spirit nt Masters and Talisman Makers will receive the same scale of support. As for the Teaching hall, it is specially designed for the family''s innate children to teach and educate, without limiting the content.


    However, family''s Qi Cultivation Ninth Level cultivators must teach at least five times each year, and Foundation Establishment cultivators must teach at least once!"


    If his previous words were slightly shocking, this time, everyone was dumbfounded.


    Even Lin Houyuan was somewhat taken aback by Lin Shiming''s actions at this moment, finding them a bit crazy.


    The Teaching Hall was still feasible, requiring only a day of the family''s cultivator''s time.


    However, the Talisman Making Hall was a different matter. The family did not have much heritage in this area, which meant high trial and error costs. The amount of resources that would be spent if this were implemented was easy to imagine.


    After Lin Shiming finished speaking, he looked towards his Seventh Great-Uncle.


    "It''s feasible!" After mulling it over, Lin Xianzhi nodded in agreement.


    Leaving aside that Lin Shiming''s initiative was perfecting the Lin Family, and its benefits were both immediate and for the future,


    Even if it were an unreasonable initiative, he would still support Lin Shiming.


    His time was running short, and the future protector of the Lin Family would be Lin Shiming.


    The other Elders and Hall Masters, at this moment, were all wearing faces of confusion.


    The issue of the family stipend has yet to be resolved, yet new expenses have emerged.


    However, since Lin Xianzhi agreed, the Elders and Hall Masters also held their tongues.


    "I assure all the uncles and Elder Hall Masters that Shiming is not a reckless person!" Lin Shiming broke the silence and spoke.


    "The family will soon have another financial ie!"


    "Moreover, it will be the foundation that truly establishes our Lin Family as part of the Purple Mansion Family!"


    With Lin Shiming''s announcement, it was Lin Xianzhi who was the first to show a change of expression.


    Upon hearing Lin Shiming''s words, he immediately realized that Lin Shiming had ascertained the situation on the other side of the Transmission Formation.


    Suddenly, his face turned from unpleasant to resigned.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming instantly understood that his Seventh Great-Uncle might have thought he recklessly put himself in danger, feeling angry yet also unable to reprimand him because Lin Shiming had distinguished himself time and again!


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming tested the waters as a Loose Cultivator and took all necessary precautions!" Lin Shiming exined, which made Lin Xianzhi look slightly more appeased.


    The other Elders and Hall Masters were utterly baffled!


    Lin Shiming also talked about the discovery of the Transmission Formation, the methods of probing, and how he finally learned from a Loose Cultivator of the opportunities and development potential of the ind.


    At that moment, Lin Xianzhi was also deeply moved.


    If the ind had no Purple Mansion Demon King, the development opportunity would be enormous for the Lin Family.


    Moreover, it meant that whatever dangers the Lin Family faced, they would have a way out.


    The other family Elders were also ecstatic.


    If there was such an ind, the more than five hundred Cultivators of the Lin Family, even if they became a thousand in the future, need not worry.


    Furthermore, the Demon Hunting Team could still go demon hunting in the sea.


    This would greatly alleviate the stress on future cultivation of various Spirit Beasts and the developmental needs of the family.


    Not to mention, there were many Water Spirit Coconuts on the ind, including a Third Rank Coconut King!


    "Good, Shiming, you have made another significant contribution. However, everyone present must keep this matter confidential. Additionally, the matter of the ind should not be dyed and we should set out as soon as possible. Shitao and Hou Yuan, stay behind. The Demon Hunting Team will also go!" Lin Xianzhi was incredibly excited.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, Shiming has another matter concerning the family''spetition!" Lin Shiming cautiously added.


    "The Lin Family has grown rapidly, but its truebat power remains unknown. The Sea Cloud Birds, Profound Turtles, and seals on the ind could be a suitable time for the family''s youthpetition!" Lin Shiming stated.


    He spoke these words with deep sentiment.


    During the invasion by the Demon Sect, the Lin Family lost a great many of their thirty-odd members. Despite the protection of Xie An, things actually went quite well, but still, most of the deceased werete-stage Qi Cultivation Cultivators. Heter realized those who had fallen were the ones who hadn''t undergone much hardship orcked sufficientbat prowess.


    Now that he had returned, he would not allow the Lin Family''s Cultivators to continue as they had before.


    Hearing this, the other Elders and Hall Masters also nodded in approval.


    The family''spetition was indeed approaching soon.


    "Seventh Great-Uncle, dear uncles and Elder Hall Masters, Shiming suggests selecting the top eight from the Qi Cultivation mid-stage and the top six from the Qi Cultivationte-stage for the uing grandpetition.


    Ultimately, we will designate the Lin Family''s five champions: three from the Qi Cultivationte-stage and two from the mid-stage, considering only Cultivators under the age of sixty!" Lin Shiming proposed.


    Upon hearing this, the assembly of Elders and Hall Masters nodded in agreement.


    "Without dy, let''s make the arrangements. Dere to the outside that thispetition is divided into external and internal bouts, with the internal ones taking ce in the Qingyun Mountain range!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 234 Third Rank Mingxin Spiritual Tea

    ```


    All the elders and hall heads responded in unison and went down, and as for thest Talisman Making Hall and Spirit nt Hall heads, they would be nominated by each hall head and then jointly determined by him and Lin Xianzhi and other Foundation Establishment elders.


    The only ones left were Lin Shiming, Lin Xianzhi, and Lin Shitao.


    Lin Xianzhi looked at the two, smiled unexpectedly, and then, with a flick of his sleeves, drifted away.


    Leaving only a few lightughs behind.


    "Shitao thanks Seventh Brother!" Lin Shitao, although trying to restrain herself, still turned slightly red in the face due to Lin Xianzhi''s casualughter.


    "There''s no need to be polite, but don''t be so willful next time!" Lin Shiming nodded, but immediately his face darkened as he admonished her.


    Although Lin Shitao ultimately seeded in her Foundation Establishment breakthrough and even saved the Lin Family a Foundation Establishment Pill, she was far more important to the Lin Family than ten Foundation Establishment Pills.


    The Lin Family would never be reduced to letting a family genius save on Foundation Establishment Pills for the sake of the family.


    "Shitao will not do it again. Please rest assured, Seventh Brother!" Lin Shitao nodded her head.


    "You are an alchemist, and Seventh Brother doesn''t have much to give you, so take this set of Cang Bee Blood-Breaking Needles!" Lin Shiming took out a set of spirit needle magic artifacts.


    These spirit needle magic artifacts were nothing significant for him now, but for a recently initiated Foundation Establishment cultivator like Lin Shitao, they were an ace up her sleeve.


    However, to his surprise, Lin Shitao shook her head and instead said with a smile:


    "Seventh Brother, can Shitao forgo the magic artifact and have that piece of music instead?" Lin Shitao asked.


    When Lin Shitao mentioned the piece of music, Lin Shiming also let out a lightugh.


    Without saying anything, he took out a Jade Slip and handed it over to Lin Shitao, along with the Cang Bee Blood-Breaking Needles.


    "Thank you, Seventh Brother, and here are some Beast Nurturing Pills and Cotton Yang Pills!" After speaking, Lin Shitao also smiled and took out more than a dozen Jade Bottles. Most of the Jade Bottles contained about a dozen elixirs each, exactly Beast Nurturing Pills, and one Jade Bottle even contained Cotton Yang Pills the size of a dragon''s eye.


    The form for Cotton Yang Pills was passed down by the Lin Family, and the Cotton Yang Pills it produced were exactly what was needed by cultivators advancing in the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, so naturally, they were very suitable for him at this moment.


    "Shitao, your elixirs Seventh Brother will dly ept, but use the Formation Artifact Manual sparingly if you can!" Lin Shiming said with a hint of distress.


    "Alright!" After saying this, Lin Shitao also turned and left.


    And Lin Shiming returned to his cave dwelling and entered the Cave Heaven world.


    The Mingxin Tea Tree, unbeknownst to when, had grown half a meter tall, turning from a solitary nt into many clusters. What surprised him the most was a wooden spirit the size of a young child, sitting upright and meditating beside the tree, much like a cultivating child.


    There weren''t many spirit leaves on the tea tree, but each one was crystal clear, vibrant green, and emitted a refreshing fragrance. Especially the single spirit leaf at the very top, which was green with a tinge of blue and had streaks of Thunder Pattern, was incredibly fragrant.


    Even the Golden Winged Mantis, which usually liked to cling to the stone wall, was now perched beside the tea tree, as if it desired to be a mantis that appreciates tea.


    Lin Shiming found this phenomenon quite astonishing, realizing that the Third Rank Mingxin Tea leaves must have undergone some changes.


    Lin Shiming approached the tea tree, intending to pluck the spirit leaves.


    As his hand moved towards that unique spirit leaf, the nearby wooden spirit suddenly became agitated, opened its eyes, and became somewhat flustered. With an expression filled with anxious pleading, it seemed to suggest that plucking that leaf would negatively affect the tea tree.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming decided not to insist and instead plucked a dozen or so ordinary tender shoots.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The wooden spirit immediately bowed gratefully to Lin Shiming, who waved his hand before sitting down cross-legged.


    Lin Shiming was puzzled by this behavior, but the nearby Red-haired Demon Monkey ran over, tugging at Lin Shiming''s waistband and uttering low cries.


    Lin Shiming took out the Beast Nurturing Pill and fed both the Red-haired Demon Monkey and the Golden Winged Mantis.


    Both creatures cheered and then devoured the food with gusto!


    The Red-haired Demon Monkey even demanded quite a bit of Monkey Wine and Spirit Water, drinking merrily.


    In addition, Lin Shiming took out the Purple Gold Gourd and released the Swallowing Ants.


    The Swallowing Ants had grown slightlyrger than before, and due to having consumed Wind Fire Star Sand, the starlight spots on their backs had be more prominent.


    ```


    The sharp tusks and horns became even more fierce.


    After pondering for a moment, Lin Shiming took out a Jade Bottle and threw out over a dozen Beast Nurturing Pills, letting the eighty-one Spirit Ants swallow them.


    These Spirit Ants were still young ants,te-stage second-rank demon ants, but it was possible that they would all break through to third-rank Spirit Antster on. By then, not to mention Spirit Formations, even average Foundation Establishment cultivators might not be a match for a single Spirit Ant in one-on-onebat.


    After the Spirit Ants finished swallowing the pills, Lin Shiming was also extraordinarily delighted to put the Spirit Ants away.


    His attention finally rested on the serpent egg. Sensing Lin Shiming''s gaze, spirit patterns began to emerge one by one on the shell of the egg, as if responding to him.


    In the fluctuations of divine sense, it continued to call out to him.


    "I need stones!"


    As if indicating, it was its turn now!


    What followed was an exuberance, as if it was saying it too wanted to make a big ssh.


    Apanied by the spirit patterns on the serpent egg lighting up again and again.


    Lin Shiming looked toward the Nurturing Spirit Formation and noticed that indeed, the several Superior Grade Spirit Stones he had ced there had visibly faded by arge amount, which immediately gave him a headache. He still didn''t know when the serpent egg would hatch, but for now, the consumption of Superior Grade Spirit Stones was truly not small.


    Lin Shiming took out two Superior Grade Spirit Stones and reced them.


    Only then did the serpent egg be immensely satisfied, no longer bothering him.


    After checking on the growth of the other Spirit nts, Lin Shiming finally had some time to spare, took out a teapot, and began to brew tea.


    Brewing the new third-rank Spiritual Tea, he poured himself a small cup.


    Instantly, the fragrance of the tea filled the room. Although not aspared to Ziyun tea, the pure taste was not much inferior.


    Only the spiritual energy was quite a bit less.


    As the Spiritual Tea reached his mouth, a hint of astringency emerged, causing Lin Shiming to pause, but the next moment, sweetness spread in his throat, a refreshing fragrance stimted his saliva, and the vor of the tea was profound and endless.


    Just the charm of the tea alone was differentpared to Ziyun tea, each kind having its own vor.


    And at this moment, his mind seemed to be ced in a do-or-die situation, leading to an extraordinary feeling of rebirth.


    His entire body''s True Yuan also began to surge, and the next moment, it rushed into his blood.


    The Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique started operating inadvertently.


    "This can temper the body..." Lin Shiming hesitated, but soon he was sure.


    This third-rank Mingxin Tea,pared to the second rank before, was even more refreshing and slightly enhanced mental acuity, but at the same time, it was very beneficial for the body and for the blood.


    It was not at all inferior to Dragon Blood Grass, but it must be noted that this third-rank Mingxin Tea was also helpful for refreshing the mind and enhancing wisdom. Its preciousness was even higher than that of Dragon Blood Grass.


    Of course, he also felt that this Mingxin Tea might be even more helpful for lightning attribute cultivators and those like Lin Houxuan who were close to the decline of their blood and energy.


    After finishing a pot of tea, Lin Shiming''s body had significantly strengthened.


    It made him consider distributing some of the Spiritual Tea to Lin Shiyi, Lin Houxuan, and others.


    But what surprised Lin Shiming even more the next moment was that the root of deduction, whose Spirit Light had originally been exhausted, had also brightened somewhat.


    Although it wasn''t much, it still filled him with enormous joy. This Spiritual Tea''s ability to restore the Spirit Light of the root of deduction was an incredibly good piece of news for him.


    Even if it was only a slight amount, it was still much better than the cial pace of natural recovery.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but look towards the Mingxin Tea Tree, wishing it was as tall as before, with clusters of tea leaves hanging one after another.


    But, unfortunately.


    At this moment, the wooden demon meditating nearby couldn''t help but tremble...

 Chapter 235 Zekong and Zecheng, Entering the Island (Two-in-One Mega Chapter)

    At Fangmu Mountain martial arts arena, the grand tournament started off with heated enthusiasm, with every member of the Lin Family giving their all.


    Even the cultivators who weren''t participating in the tournament were exceedingly joyful.


    One reason was that the tournament would select the new "Five Heroes of the Lin Family", and at the same time, the Lin Family was reinstating the double and triple sry reward system!


    Lin Shiming arrived at the sparring stage for the mid-stage Qi Cultivationpetitors, and while he felt the vigorous spirit of the Lin Family, he was also observing the Lin Family''s Shi-generation cultivators, as well as a few from the Ze generation.


    The tournament had already begun at this point.


    The mid-stage,te-stage, and early-stage Qi Cultivation matches were all happening simultaneously in three different arenas.


    Apart from thete-stage Qi Cultivation arena, which required the protection of some hall masters and Foundation Establishment Elders from the family, the mid-stage and early-stage Qi Cultivation arenas were both guarded byte-stage Qi Cultivation cultivators from the family to prevent idental injuries due to not holding back.


    Thete-stage Qi Cultivation arena didn''t have manypetitors; most of the Shi-generation cultivators were in the mid-stage.


    The few who were in thete stage were only at the seventh or eighth level of Qi Cultivation.


    As for the Ze-generation cultivators, although there were quite a few at thete stage and ninth level, most of them were already over sixty or nearing sixty and did not participate.


    It is worth noting that the oldest among the Shi generation, Lin Shijie, was also nearing fifty.


    Lin Shilei, as one of the younger Shi-generation cultivators, was particrly outstanding at this moment. His Thunder Hook technique was rarely matched among the Lin Family''s younger generation, and there were few cultivators who could force Lin Shilei to use his full strength.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    In addition to him, Lin Shizhong and Lin Shiyun also performed well.


    After watching for a while, Lin Shiming came to the mid-stage Qi Cultivation arena, keeping his Divine Sense on two outstanding Ze-generation cultivators, Lin Zekong and Lin Zecheng.


    The former had dual Spirit Roots of water and wood, slightly better than his own. He was cultivating the Qing Mu Art as well.


    After more than a decade, the flickering Spirit Light of the Qing Mu Art involuntarily brought back the methods of cultivating the Qing Mu Art to his mind, filling him with a multitude of emotions.


    Lin Zekong''s opponent was a Shi-generation cultivator with four Spirit Roots, at the fifth level of Qi Cultivation.


    Lin Zekong''s Spirit Vines technique was exactly like what Lin Shiming used back then to fend off enemies, but thetter''s method of stimting the Spirit Vines was not particrly sophisticated.


    He waved his Spirit Beast Bag, and a medium-sized Blood Crocodile burst out fiercely. Paired with the Wood Vine Technique, he managed to achieve victory, albeit with some difficulty.


    Next to him, Lin Zechang had a much easier time; even though he was only at the fourth level of Qi Cultivation, because he practiced the Fierce Sun Heart Sutra, his Cultivation Technique and sword technique were extremely fierce, forcing many Shi-generation cultivators into falling behind and securing easy victories.


    The tournament, being an externalpetition, concluded within three days.


    In the end, the top six of thete-stage Qi Cultivation contenders, namely Lin Shilei, Lin Shijin, Lin Shizhong, Lin Shiyun, Lin Shiqing, and Lin Shiyang, earned the qualifications for the internalpetition.


    The top eight from the mid-stage Qi Cultivation were almost all Shi-generation cultivators, with just one being from the Ze generation, Lin Zecheng.


    Lin Zekong didn''t make the selection, losing the qualification for the internalpetition.


    He seemed somewhat disheartened, standing on the sparring stage for a long time, clutching a seed from a Wood Vine, some of which had scattered.


    Beneath his feet, the Blood Crocodile, sensing its master''s dejection,y close to the ground, asionally rubbing its head against Lin Zekong''s foot.


    Those who had qualified for the internalpetition received congrattions and blessings from Lin Shiming, the Family Head, one after another.


    All the cultivators were extremely excited.


    As the sunset dipped below the horizon, the crowd dispersed.


    The Lin Family descendants with qualifications for the internalpetition began their preparations, while those without were allocated their sry levels by the family, some joyful, others worried.


    In the lengthening shadows of the sunset, Lin Zekong remained seated on the sparring stage, staring nkly at the spot where he''d failed during the light of day.


    Lin Shiming couldn''t help but walk over.


    "Uncle Seven..." Clearly nervous in front of Lin Shiming, Lin Zekong began talking somewhat tentatively as the former approached.


    "What, is the sunset over the arena a better sight?" Lin Shiming looked towards the fiery sunset and responded.


    Lin Zekong pursed his lips and did not answer.


    Lin Shiming did not pursue the conversation and simply sat down as well.


    After a while, Lin Zekong suddenly spoke up:


    "Uncle Seven, with the fourth level of a wood-based Cultivation Technique, how can one defeat someone at the sixth level of Qi Cultivation?"


    Lin Zekong''s voice held a trace of helplessness. As a favored son of the heavens and a dual Spirit Root genius, he was cultivating the Qing Mu Art that Lin Shiming once practiced. He was only seventeen and already at the fourth level of Qi Cultivation, not far from the fifth level.


    "What, do you think the family tournament rules are unreasonable?"


    "Or do you find the Qing Mu Art not as strong as you imagined?" Lin Shiming questioned in return.


    Lin Zekong didn''t answer, but his expression spoke volumes.


    "So, you were waiting here for me to exonerate you?" Lin Shiming spoke again and abruptly stood up.


    Without looking back, he walked away into the distance.


    Lin Zekong was visibly panicked and immediately stood up:


    "Uncle Seven, Zekong wouldn''t dare!"


    "First reflect on what the family means to you, and when you have the answer,e find me!" Lin Shiming said, pausing briefly before adding anotherment.


    "Also, to correct you, I wasn''t good at leapfrog challenges during my Qi Cultivation Stage either!"


    Lin Shiming felt somewhat disappointed¡ªof course, not in thetter''s talents orbat abilities, but in his temperament.


    ...


    The next day, as Fangmu Mountain''s great formation activated once more, clouds and mist enveloped the entire mountain.


    A gigantic Spirit Boat shot towards Lingnan County, breaking through the sky.


    Along with the departure of the Spirit Boat, news also spread throughout the entire Yunzhou and Lingnan County''s marketces that the Lin Family''s auction was about to be held.

 Chapter 236 Green Shell Crab and Water Spirit Coconut (Two in One Mega Chapter, Please Subscribe)

    The sky above the sea ind was exceptionally azure, with not a cloud in sight.


    A flock of third-rank Sea Cloud Birds pped their huge wings ferociously. Under the cover of a blue Spirit Light, a barrage of tremendous Wind des continuously fanned out, while their ws constantly reached out, attempting to grab everything around them.


    However, the Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation was focused on endlessly generating Sword Qi. With the Nine Swords Formation supporting each other, not to mention the early-stage third-rank Sea Cloud Birds, even the mid-stage third-rank Sea Cloud Birds couldn''t break free.


    Five third-rank Sea Cloud Birds, despite their incredible speed, could only be trapped, emitting angry and anxious shrieks.


    As Lin Shiming formed the hand signs, the sword array suddenly changed from trapping to killing. One after another, Sword Lights shed out, ying the five early-stage third-rank Sea Cloud Birds.


    Since the formation of Sword Intent, his strength in controlling sword arrays had greatly increased.


    Each Formation Sword released Sword Qi that was richer and more lethal than before.


    Each stream of Sword Qi carried the murderous force of the Grass Character Sword Technique, traversing horizontally and vertically, ying heaven and earth!


    While Lin Shiming was ying the five early-stage third-rank Sea Cloud Birds, Lin Xianzhi hacked down two mid-stage third-rank Sea Cloud Birds with two strikes.


    The Qinglian Sword transformed into a Sword Light, hanging high in the void.


    Streams of Qinglian Sword Qi, a blend of blue and gold, were both splendid and sharp.


    Below the sword, Lin Xianzhi stood in mid-air, closely watching the other Lin Family disciples surround and attack the second-rank Sea Cloud Birds.


    Should a crisis arise, Lin Xianzhi would immediately send Sword Qi to assist.


    Moreover, the Qinglian Sword hanging high formed a Sword Screen. If any second-rank Sea Cloud Birds tried to flee, they too would be in by the Sword Qi.


    There has never been a practice of releasing captured enemies back into the wild in the Lin Family tradition.


    Not even when ites to a single bird!


    Seeing Lin Xianzhi dispatch several fleeing second-rank Sea Cloud Birds, the other Lin Family cultivators immediately grew anxious.


    These second-rank Sea Cloud Birds were their prey. In an instant, Spirit Light was released, various Magic Artifacts flew out, slicing toward the Sea Cloud Birds.


    The Thunder Hook and the Sprinting Thunder Sword from Lin Shilei flew out together. Since this was a secret family operation, he no longer needed to conceal his Thunder Spirit Root. Unrestrainedly stimting it, lightning and Sword Light intertwined, quickly ying three second-rank Sea Cloud Birds.


    Lin Shilei fought more and more bravely, delighting in the battle, as these second-rank Sea Cloud Birds posed no threat to him!


    Adjacent to him, Lin Shizhong cooperated with Lin Shijin. An Artifact Refiner and a Talisman Maker, when the two worked together, their coordination was seamless.


    Streams of Spirit Talismans overwhelmed the Sea Cloud Birds, followed by wave after wave of Magic Artifacts shattering the birds'' protective blue Spirit Light, killing them on the spot.


    The other Lin Family disciples also exhibited their own methods of attack.


    Only Lin Zecheng was extremely anxious. As a fourthyer Qi Cultivation practitioner, even though he practiced the Fierce Sun True Scripture and possessed a Dual Spirit Root, he was utterly powerless against thete-stage second-rank Sea Cloud Birds that he faced.


    After all, this was not an externalparison where they could line up one by one!


    Soon, after sending a message to several others, Lin Zecheng found coborators. With so many Sea Cloud Birds, some were bound to flee.


    With the help of other cultivators, Lin Zecheng finally managed to y a Sea Cloud Bird.


    Of course, he could only im a small part of this Sea Cloud Bird, but even so, it was enough to excite him, for this was his first time ying a Demonic Beast above his level. On Fangmu Mountain, he never had the opportunity to y a beast of the same rank.


    In the high sky, Lin Xianzhi constantly nodded his head.


    The cultivators of the Shi and Ze generation had not disappointed him.


    Of course, he cast his gaze once more towards the high skies above the sea ind.


    At some point, Lin Shiming had taken out an Array te.


    The Array te was covered in flowing Spirit Patterns, clearly showing it was a third-rank Mountain-Protecting Formation.


    Lin Xianzhi nodded in satisfaction.


    Lin Shiming had never let him down. Composed in victory and stalwart in defeat, careful with every step, this was the reason Lin Xianzhi favored Lin Shiming even more.


    It was these details, this meticulousness, that could support a cultivator to go further in the Immortal Cultivation World!


    The Transmission Formation brought them here, even if there were no threats on the sea ind itself. But deep in the sea outside, everything was still unknown.


    But the Mountain Protection Array could ensure they always had a way out, taking precautions before it was toote.


    As Lin Shiming ced a set of Array tes on the ground and shimmering Spirit Light scattered, instantly, array gs like Spirit Arrows flew to the four corners of the sea ind, settling into the foundations of the formation.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Each foundation radiated strong Spirit Light, weaving together into a huge light curtain, enveloping most of the ind within.


    As the protector''s Spirit Shield formed, Lin Shiming finally sighed with relief.


    It was only then that they could truly consider themselves firmly established on the sea ind.


    Of course, they still needed to explore the sea ind and its surroundings.


    Once the Mountain Protection Array waspleted, Lin Shiming looked towards the interior of the formation.


    Just as thest streak of blue light vanished, Lin Zecheng held a Crimson Sun Sword, forged from Golden Iron Stone, and yed a Sea Cloud Bird.


    "Seventh Great-Grandfather, may I im this Sea Cloud Bird as my own kill?" Lin Zecheng asked somewhat sheepishly, bowing to Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Zecheng, of course, could not have in the Sea Cloud Bird on his own.


    This final Sea Cloud Bird, attempting to escape, was gravely wounded by the Sword Qi from Lin Xianzhi and then dropped right in front of him.


    Lin Zekong, naturally excited, delivered the final blow to thest Sea Cloud Bird with a single sword strike.


    "It counts!" Lin Xianzhi responded with a kind smile.


    "Clean up the battlefield. Shiyun, refine the Mountain Protection Array further!" As the battle concluded, Lin Shiming descended as well.


    He was not an Array Master, so even with an Array te, he was unable to fully establish the Formation on his own.


    In the absence of Lin Houshou, the most skilled in array formations here was Lin Shiyun.

 Chapter 237 Thunder Turtle and Primordial Magnet Stone (Double-Length Chapter Subscription Request)

    After Lin Shiming secured the Third Rank Spirit Coconuts, he looked around, only to be bombarded with messages from his nsmen.


    "Family Head, we''ve discovered a cluster of Profound Water Turtle eggs on this beach!"


    Every so often, someone would find a turtle burrow near the tide, uncovering eggs buried one after another.


    Each of these eggs glowed with Spirit Light and radiated a strong life force, clearly all viable.


    Although thebat prowess of the Profound Water Turtles was nothing to write home about, they were, after all, a group of Spirit Turtles adept in the Water Arrow Technique.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Their defensive capabilities were also decent, and even if used for breeding and consumption as a spirit delicacy, they were top-notch!


    Lin Shiming was nevertheless overjoyed, as these Spirit Turtles signified an increasingly prosperous financial standing for the family.


    At this moment, the Lin Family''s current generation, surnamed "Shi" and "Ze," hadpletely transformed into a group of exceptionally excited treasure hunters, even Lin Yuqing, a cultivator of 110 years old, was exceedingly thrilled to be searching on the beach.


    Thanks to their Divine Sense, they didn''t find it hard to search, but the Profound Water Turtles had dug deep burrows to avoid the predatory Sea Cloud Birds!


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi weren''t looking for eggs; their Divine Sense was attuned to the surroundings, ready to detect any powerful Demonic Beasts that might approach the ind.


    "There''s a young turtle here too!" Suddenly, Lin Shilei called out.


    The group of cultivators turned to look in Lin Shilei''s direction, only to see a basin-sized young turtle appear in his hands.


    This turtle was clearly different from the Profound Water Turtles, with an oval shell adorned with Spirit Patterns.


    Its pointed head, long ws, and bright, cunning eyes were distinctive.


    As Lin Shilei reached for it, he was caught off-guard by a sudden strike of lightning on his hand, which instantly sparked with electricity.


    But since Lin Shilei himself possessed a Thunder Spirit Root and cultivated Thunder Techniques, while the shock was not hugely damaging, it was startling nheless.


    However, his interest quickly grew even stronger.


    The turtle was evidently not an ordinary "Profound Water Turtle" but could be regarded as a Thunder Turtle.


    Of course, after getting shocked, Lin Shilei was a bit annoyed and pped the Thunder Turtle on its head, provoking more intense lightning to burst forth, causing the turtle to shrink back, leaving only a fraction of its ws visible, which it waved around incessantly.


    Its eyes swiveled round and round, and it dared not discharge any more electricity.


    "This Thunder Turtle is extraordinary!" Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi both scrutinized it seriously, then exchanged nces.


    At that moment, Lin Yuqing walked up to Lin Shilei, gazing at the Thunder Turtle with joy.


    After observing it for a good while, his face was alight with happiness.


    This Thunder Turtle was clearly on a different levelpared to the Profound Water Turtles, capable of only firing a water arrow¡ªcultivated to its full potential, a single spell of lightning could be tremendously terrifying!


    Moreover, with the Lin Family nning to continue developing on this ind, having this Thunder Turtle would make many things easier for them in the future.


    "Shilei, since you discovered this Thunder Turtle and it''s quite suited to you, I''ll leave it in your care. I hope you will raise it well, so it can contribute to our family''sbat strength in the future!" Lin Shiming spoke up.


    He had the Golden Winged Mantis and the Red-haired Demon Monkey, as well as a snake with the Flood Dragon Bloodline. He naturally didn''t have the time or energy to continue nurturing Demonic Beasts.


    The other cultivators of the Lin Family eithercked the talent or, even if they wanted to raise one, had to be wary of being shocked by the Thunder Turtle, whereas Lin Shilei met all the criteria.


    And since he had discovered it, it was naturally better to give it to him.


    "Shilei, aren''t you going to thank the Family Head, Seventh Great-Uncle?" Lin Yuqing smiled, his eyes narrowing into slits, still reminding Lin Shilei.


    "Thank you, Family Head, Seventh Great-Uncle!" Lin Shilei also spoke up repeatedly, clearly fond of the Thunder Turtle.


    Having a Spirit Beast to apany his study of Thunder Techniques was indeed a fortunate event in a cultivator''s life.


    "By the way, Shilei, now that you have this young Thunder Turtle, you won''t get a share of the other treasures found on the ind. Of course, the in Sea Cloud Birds and the treasures from the Profound Water Turtles and Green Shell Crabs are another matter," Lin Shiming added.


    However, neither Lin Shilei nor Lin Yuqing were concerned. One only had to look at Lin Shiming''s Golden Winged Mantis to understand how much help a Spirit Beast could offerter on.


    This Thunder Turtle was a Second Rank mid-phase creature at birth, and it had a good chance of reaching the Third Rank as it grew.


    It wasn''t just Lin Shilei who was indifferent to sharing; even Lin Yuqing would have happily declined his share.


    Lin Shizhong, Lin Shijin, and the other cultivators were all filled with envy, especially Lin Zecheng, who was practically glowing with excitement. Despite not having fully recovered from his injuries, he continued to search the beach, hoping for the appearance of another special young beast, like a Fire Turtle, or even a Fire Crab would suffice.


    Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi just smiled.


    This ind wasrge in some respects and small in others; finding another unique Demonic Beast juvenile was not an easy task!


    Naturally, they were pleased to see this development.


    However, they did not look so kindly upon seasoned cultivators like Lin Yuqing and Lin Houxuan; at times like this, it was necessary to be prepared for potential dangers.


    Lin Shiyun, having finished setting up the Formation, saw Lin Shilei holding the Thunder Turtle and appeared a bit envious.


    Lin Shiming took out a Second Rank Water Spirit Coconut and handed it to him.


    For Lin Shiyun, a Qi Cultivation practitioner of the eighth level, a Second Rank Water Spirit Coconut was extremely precious. Gratefully epting it, he drank without hesitation.


    After consuming it, he suddenly felt a surge of immense Spiritual Energy, and Lin Shiyun swiftly seated himself cross-legged to meditate and cultivate on the spot.


    Since the family had more or less secured the ind, Lin Shiming was casual about letting him do so.


    Seeing that the Water Spirit Coconut had beenpletely absorbed, Lin Shiming returned to the Transmission Formation.

 Chapter 238 Family Support, Bad News from Nanling (Two in One)

    The fledglings of the Sea Cloud Bird had grown to the size of a calf, scampering across the ground and pping their wings incessantly, their sharp screams resembling fierce and malevolent spirits.


    Glimmers of Spirit Light twinkled on their wings, yet they were too small, their feathers not fully grown, and they couldn''t muster the Wind de, all the nascent power dissolving into a green glow and fading away.


    In an instant, they became the center of everyone''s attention, leaving Lin Shilei''s Thunder Turtle all but ignored.


    Though lightning attribute Spirit Beasts were rare, wind attribute avian Spirit Beasts were notmonce either.


    Moreover, thetter had a somewhat more appealing appearance than the former.


    In a moment, everyone gazed eagerly at Lin Shiming.


    Wanting to speak, yet harboring some concerns!


    The rarity of a Sea Cloud Bird Spirit Beast was not something that could bepared with Water Spirit Coconuts.


    "Sure!" Lin Shiming replied with a smile.


    Counting the unhatched eggs, there were a total of eleven Sea Cloud Birds, and since Lin Houyuan, Lin Shiyi, and others who returned from the White Leaf Continent already had their Spirit Beasts, those without were fully invested in their cultivation and had no time to rear Spirit Beasts.


    Therefore, these ten Sea Cloud Birds were within reach for those participating in the internalpetition.


    Especially for the rewards for the five champions, each one would receive a bird directly.


    "Zecheng, you may choose one as a family reward!" Lin Shiming spoke again.


    "Thank you, Family Head!" Lin Zecheng''s eyes sparkled, visibly moved at this moment.


    He then began scrutinizing the eggs of the Sea Cloud Bird.


    He certainly coveted the fledglings of the Sea Cloud Bird, but he understood that those uncles and seniors rightfully deserved therger fledglings.


    "The rest of you will also have two chances, but they will have to be exchanged with contribution points!" Lin Shiming then turned his gaze towards the remaining n members of the ''Shi'' generation.


    He needed to reserve at least three Sea Cloud Birds; first of all, he wanted to give one to his older brother Lin Shijie.


    Considering Lin Shijie''s Demonic Beast was likely the Qing Feather Peng he had purchased together in the market of Qingxuan City, it wasn''t even worth a Third Rank.


    Furthermore, he intended to prepare one each for Lin Shitao and his fifth uncle.


    "Thank you, Family Head!" eximed Lin Shijin and others who didn''t make it into the quintet of champions, clearly overjoyed.


    Especially Lin Shijin, given the chance to exchange, being a Talisman Maker, no one in the family could surpass his contribution points.


    It was known that for some of the family''s market shops, certain exquisite Spirit Talismans were purchased from outside, but a majority of them involved his participation, not to mention the Teleportation Talisman this time.


    As for the other cultivators, they also understood at this point that Sea Cloud Birds were extremely precious, and the family offering them in exchange was already exceptionally generous.


    It mattered little if they couldn''t get one; they would still have a share of the Profound Water Turtles and Green Shell Crabs, albeit a lower grade, but still a reward from this mission.


    ced in the context of the Lin Family of Fangmu Mountain, it was enough to evoke envy for a long time.


    However, just as everyone was radiating joy,


    Lin Shiming''s expression suddenly shifted:


    "Of course! I must caution you that the matter of the ind this time must not be discussed with anyone, not even your parents or family members!"


    "All actions this time are credited to Qingyun Mountain, and any talk about the ind''s Demonic Beasts must not reach Fangmu Mountain!"


    "Moreover, all Water Spirit Coconuts must be blended into Mingxin Tea to obscure their true nature before they can be introduced to Fangmu Mountain!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Anyone who disobeys will be dealt with by the n rules, and none shall be spared!"


    As Lin Shiming''s voice rose with utmost severity, everyone was jolted to sharp awareness.


    Apart from Lin Zecheng and Lin Shilei, the others had been cultivating for not an insignificant time, and at this moment, they also understood, if this matter leaked out, it would be a catastrophic disaster for the Lin Family.


    Even a Purple Mansion cultivator could not retain possession of the Transmission Formation, much less a bounteous ind like this one.


    "Lastly, the family needs cultivators to stay as guards on Shuangmu Ind, with sries equivalent to that of a Deacon!"


    The name Shuangmu Ind was given by Lin Xianzhi, alluding to the ''Lin'' of the Lin Family.


    "Yes!"


    After Lin Shiming finished speaking, the cultivators responded in unison.


    Seeing this, Lin Shiming turned his gaze back to Lin Xianzhi.


    Upon witnessing thetter shake his head, indicating there was nothing to add, Lin Shiming waved his hand to signal the dismissal, and for the remaining arrangements and affairs, he delegated them to Lin Yuqing.


    The former Great Elder, who had often appeared worried, now looked upon the thriving family with a smile on his face.


    But seeing that everyone still appeared too at ease, his expression turned stern.


    "To be in such a state after obtaining a bit of resources, where is your mind-set?"


    "How can you seek the Tao like this?"


    "I hope you don''t forget your original aspirations and continue to forge ahead. The path of cultivation has never been about resources and talent alone!"


    "You should learn more from the Family Head!"


    "Alright, moving on..."


    Following Lin Yuqing''s arrangements, the Lin Family began to establish itself on Shuangmu Ind definitively.


    ...


    Atop the mountain peak, the refreshing sea breeze blew, lifting the long hair of Lin Shiming and Lin Xianzhi.


    Lin Xianzhi stared calmly at the endless expanse of the sea surface, illuminated by the moon above, merging with the boundless void.


    The sea and sky were of one color, with the Milky Way hanging high above!


    However, he soon shook his head as if mocking himself.


    Turning to Lin Shiming:


    "Shiming, do you know what I just saw?"


    "I fancied I saw our family''s Spirit Boat forging ahead on the ocean, the entire sea domain marked with the Lin Family''s name, apanied by the Sea Cloud Birds with spreading green glow and the surrounding Profound Water Turtles."


    Finishing his speech, Lin Xianzhi was somewhat emotional.


    "I truly wish to witness that day, but I suppose my seventh uncle ancestor will have no chance to see it. Shiming, the future exploration and legacy of our family will all have to be entrusted to you!"


    His words wereced with regret, but his regret seemed to have a hidden implication!


    "Seventh uncle ancestor, are you worried about the Profound Grade Secret Realm expedition in five years?" Lin Shiming continued without waiting for a response from Lin Xianzhi.

 Chapter 239 Warning Notice, Shitaos Intentions (Two in One)

    Lin Shiming raised his head and, through the flickering light of two candles, faintly saw the towering figure of someone working the iron.


    He would sometimes smile, but he was mostly stern.


    asionally, he would tease the younger generation with a few words.


    Scene after scene passed by, making Lin Shiming''s eyes grow slightly misty.


    The candles burned quickly, and Lin Shiming took two new ones from his uncle Lin Houyong, lighting them from the mes of the old.


    Lin Shiming struggled to hold back his tears, but his hands still shook slightly.


    He had not expected that hisst meeting with Lin Yutie would be a permanent farewell.


    ording to what Lin Houyong had said.


    Lin Yutie passed away silently, unknown to anyone.


    He chose an ordinary day to patrol the Nanling Mountain as usual, gazed upon Fangmu Mountain, looked over the Stone Ridge Cave, and wherever his eyes fell, it was all Lin Family territory. After a satisfied smile,


    he took advantage of the remaining sunlight to return to his rocking chair and continued to examine the wooden sword and jade slip in his hands.


    One moment, then another.


    No one knew when his spiritual power had dissipated, nor when he had passed away peacefully on the spot.


    At some moment, crows perched on the treetops, disturbing the whole of Lingnan Mountain, and everyone pushed open the doors of the courtyard to look.


    This cultivator, who had dedicated most of his life to the Lin Family, had reached the end of his life in the courtyard, on his rocking chair, and passed away peacefully.


    Unlike the loud inquiries from the Second Elder, the Fourth Elder Lin Yutie left without a sound.


    For most of his life, he silently contributed to the Family''s artifact refining. In the end, he passed alone without a word, reluctant to trouble the family, and even refusing to take the Dragon Blood Pill...


    How could Lin Shiming not hold respect for such an elder of the family?n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Especially during theirst meeting, Lin Yutie, trembling, handed over his sword, into which he had poured all his heart, to Lin Shiming.


    Instead of to his own child, Lin Houfei, or his closest disciple, Lin Shizhong.


    It was only Lin Shiming''s rapid progress that made thetter feel somewhat helpless throughout his life.


    But for Lin Shiming, thetter had already helped him a lot, specifically refining three Supreme Grade Second Rank Magic Artifacts for him, and also the Qinglian Taoist Robe, which had greatly aided him to this very day.


    Next to him, Lin Shizhong was also full of tears at the moment. To him, Lin Yutie was not only the Fourth Elder of the Lin Family but also his dear grandfather and master. Without Lin Yutie, not to mention his status as a Supreme Grade Second Rank Artifact Refiner, he might not even have achieved the eighthyer of Qi Refinement.


    "Shiming, this jade slip is what Uncle left for you!" Lin Houyong stepped forward, presenting a jade slip.


    Lin Shiming took the jade slip, reading the few lines of clear characters written with flying dragons and dancing phoenixes:


    "Family Head, if you are seeing this jade slip, your Uncle Fourth must have passed away. I broke my promise and didn''t take that elixir, but I am just a withered old man, unworthy of the Family''s precious pills. In this life, to have been born into the Lin Family and have walked the path of immortal cultivation is already a great fortune!"


    "My only regret is that I couldn''t forge a suitable Magic Artifact for you, truly regrettable!"


    "As for the elixir, leave it to Shizhong. He is also a Third Spirit Root, and if he fails to break through, I hope that you will give him another chance. With his talent in artifact forging, he surpasses me and even Houfei!"


    "For the Storage Bag, I''ll trouble the Family Head to return it to Fangmu Mountain for Houfei. If there is anyone in my line with decent talent, I hope the Family Head will look after them!"


    "Right, surely the Family Head won''t mind if your old Uncle Fourth rambles a bit more at this moment!"


    "The Formation Artifact Manual should be used sparingly, as such high-intensity refining of artifacts and elixirs not only depletes a cultivator''s vitality but also exacerbates the internal fire toxin!"


    The words in the jade slip were not many, but they filled Lin Shiming with warmth. This cultivator of the Yu generation gave his life for the Family,


    and even after his passing, he still thought of the Lin Family''s younger generations.


    The rest of the content in the jade slip was left by Lin Yutie for Lin Shizhong and Lin Houfei.


    It was his final insight into artifact refining.


    Indeed, even on the day before he passed away, this Fourth Elder of the Lin Family was still studying artifact refining.


    The content of the artifact refining was about using the Family''s Golden Iron Stone and Golden Iron Crystal to craft a unique Third Rank Flying Sword for the Lin Family, the Golden Lin Sword.


    Of course, the final warning also made Lin Shiming pause suddenly.


    Indeed, looking at Lin Yuqi, Lin Yutie, and even the current Lin Houxuan, one could drawparisons.


    The Formation Artifact Manual, while allowing the Family to refine artifacts and elixirs beyond their level, also dealt significant harm to the body.


    Otherwise, Lin Houxuan wouldn''t have failed at Foundation Establishment, neither would he have be so despondent, and even Lin Shitao, with her Second Spirit Root, faced great difficulties during her Foundation Establishment breakthrough.


    "Shizhong, this is the artifact refining insight and the crafting method for the Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Sword, the Iron Lin Sword, that your Uncle Fourth left for you. This will be your task for the future of the Family. Of course, the Family will also prepare a Foundation Establishment Pill for you!" Lin Shiming handed over the jade slip and the Dragon Blood Pill to Lin Shizhong.


    The Dragon Blood Pill had already been given to Lin Yutie, who was to pass it on to Lin Shizhong.


    He would naturally respect Lin Yutie''s final wishes.


    "I will not disappoint you!" Lin Shizhong took a deep breath, wiping his eyes, and spoke with solemn gravity.


    He opened the jade slip and read through it, seeing it was the crafting method for the Third Rank Superior Grade Spirit Sword named Golden Lin Sword.


    The main materials were the Lin Family''s Golden Iron Crystal and Golden Iron Stone!


    In the jade slip was the Golden Lin Sword, not as Lin Shiming had called it, the Iron Lin Sword.


    However, the Iron Lin Sword mentionedter did indeed sound better than the Golden Lin Sword!


    Lin Shiming mourned for a day in Lingnan Mountain, and the next morning, he piloted the Supreme Grade Spirit Boat, which he expanded to itsrgest size.

 Chapter 240 Body Refinement Breakthrough, News of Seventh Granduncle (2-in-1)

    Lin Shitao left, but Lin Shiming ultimately didn''t speak.


    Thetter felt somewhat disappointed, with dissatisfaction in his eyes.


    But for him, whether there was a response or not, everything would wait until after he returned from the Profound Grade Secret Realm.


    The Cotton Yang Pill and Beast Nurturing Pill in his hand were still warm.


    Lin Shiming shook his head, no longer looking at the distant fragrance, and returned to his cave dwelling.


    He began to close off from the world and cultivate!


    Five years was too short a time.


    He first activated all the formations of his cave dwelling, then returned to the Cave Heaven World.


    The Spirit Vein within the Cave Heaven World was a Third Rank, Superior Grade at its peak, only slightly below a Fourth Rank Spiritual Vein, many times better than the Spirit Vein of the Lin Family''s Fangmu Mountain.


    Inside the Cave Heaven World, the Mingxin Tea Tree had once again visibly grown a bit, whereas the bunch of natal leaves at the top had greatly diminished, as if they had expended all their spiritual power.


    Apparently, the tree sprite''s essence of spiritual power was all stored in those natal leaves.


    The day after the heavenly tribtion ended, the natal leaves sprouted from the dead branches, absorbing the spiritual energy of the heavens and the earth.


    Now, these natal leaves were depleting themselves, causing the whole Mingxin Tea Tree to growrger and more lush, continuously nourishing the tree.


    Not counting the leaves Lin Shiming had plucked, the tree now seemed even more luxuriant than before he picked any leaves.


    This came as a surprise to Lin Shiming, as well as a delight! Stay connected with empire


    The Mingxin Tea Tree clearly stored a significant amount of life energy.


    And to think, the Spiritual Tea he had consumed before had not only helped him in refining his body, but had also been able to restore the Spirit Light of his foundational roots.


    His swordsmanship had just reached the initial formation of Sword Intent, arge realm away from the Sword Dao, short of achieving Sword Light Transformation by just a little.


    If he used this Spiritual Tea toplete the training of Sword Light Transformation, his odds of prevailing in the Secret Realm would definitely increase greatly.


    Lin Xianzhi''s Renshui Geng Metal Art transformed into the Green Lotus Sword Intent, which was already sufficient for him to battle above his level, and his Grass Character Sword technique was even more lethal. Once the sword seed was deployed, it could definitely serve as a trump card.


    Even though the persistence of his Sword Intent was a bit weak, the Sword Intent of the Grass Character Sword technique could still be added to his Purple Wood Profound Heavenly Sword Formation.


    With this thought, Lin Shiming walked towards the Mingxin Tea Tree.


    At a distance, the tree sprite continued to meditate. It still had the appearance of a young child. Seeing Lin Shiming approach, it immediately acted as if faced with a formidable enemy, its Divine Sense expressing an urgent flurry of emotions.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "I''ll call you Mingxin then. I think you wouldn''t want to see me fall in the Secret Realm!" Lin Shiming spoke with a hint of threat and dissatisfaction.


    The Mingxin Tea Tree was his contracted tree sprite, but that''s the issue with intelligent spirit pets from early on¡ªthey had their own thoughts.


    That was exactly why many cultivators didn''t want to make contracts with mature Spirit Beasts.


    Even with a Spirit Contract, these tree sprites and Spirit Beasts would asionally harbor unusual thoughts.


    Intimidated by Lin Shiming''s re, the tree sprite was shocked. After hesitating for a couple of moments, it leapt onto the natal leaves, covering them and another small bunch of leaves as if guarding them.


    The rest of the leaves were left free for Lin Shiming to pick.


    Only then did Lin Shiming nod in satisfaction. However, contemting the uing hatching of the half-flood dragon snake made him worry more, sparking his urgency to find a higher-level Spirit Contract.


    Fortunately, the half-flood dragon had not been sentient for long; even after hatching, it likely wouldn''t be too problematic.


    Lin Shiming methodically plucked the Spiritual Tea, leaving aside just the freshly sprouted young shoots¡ªeverything else he took.


    Soon, he filled a small Jade Box with the leaves.


    Once he finished picking the Spiritual Tea, Lin Shiming stepped forward and transferred some True Yuan from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra to the Mingxin Tea Tree¡ªonly a little, as the tree sprite was clearly capable of self-growth. At the moment, time was the most preciousmodity.


    The tree sprite immediately bowed to Lin Shiming,municating gratitude through its Divine Sense.


    But as Lin Shiming took another look at the scarce remaining Spiritual Tea, the tea tree trembled once more.


    Of course, Lin Shiming only wanted to see if the Mingxin Tea Tree would change after absorbing the True Yuan from the Purple Wood Heart Sutra; he had no intention of plucking more leaves.


    Turning away, he then headed towards the Golden Thunder Bamboo and the Minor Divine Ability Tree with the Heavenly Spirit Fruit. The Minor Divine Ability Tree appeared the same as before, with a fuller radiance, while the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree had started to bloom.


    It had been cultivated for nearly fifteen years in his realm, and it was finally blooming.


    The Heavenly Spirit Fruit had a very long flowering period and took a long time to mature. Under natural conditions,


    the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree would attract powerful Demonic Beasts. Currently, inside the Cave Heaven World, only the Spirit Ants were tempted by it.


    However, Lin Shiming dared not leave the Spirit Ants to guard the Heavenly Spirit Fruit Tree.


    Instead, the Minor Divine Ability Tree, even without flowers or fruit, was a favorite spot for the Red-haired Demon Monkey, and even the snake egg continuously transmitted Divine Sense waves, eager to hatch beside it.


    After tending to all three trees, Lin Shiming turned his attention to the Tribtion Forging Divine Flower, a Spiritual Medicine that could enhance his Divine Sense.


    However, this batch of spirit flowers had just sprouted recently; even with five years of devoted nurturing without cultivation, they wouldn''t mature in time, so naturally, he had to set them aside for the moment.


    Lin Shiming found a corner of the Cave Heaven World and set out a stone table, beginning to slowly brew tea.


    Next to the stone table was a bathing tub, filled with the Body Refinement Spiritual Medicine from the Mountain Ape Body Refining Technique. In addition, Lin Shiming took out several Dragon Blood Flowers, which he had found in the marsnds of Poison Valley.


    Upon the Dragon Blood Flowers'' appearance, the nearby snake egg immediately sent out waves of angry emotions.


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