Immortality and Cultivation: Starting with Harvesting the Talents of Demonic Beasts

Chapter 235 An Unexpected Surprise, New Connections

"boom!"

The secret realm finally closed, and Master Xuanji withdrew his magic power. Instantly, the portal disappeared, and the surging whirlpool on the river surface vanished, turning into surging waves that surged forward.

Even if someone is still alive in the secret realm and hasn't come out yet, they will never have another chance.

The next time it opens will be another 60 years later.

The secret realm is treacherous; no one can survive there for more than sixty years.

The only way out is death.

……

At this moment, Lin Changheng looked at the late Foundation Establishment cultivator dressed as a woodcutter, ready to make a move.

A series of sharp, whistling sounds suddenly rang out, attracting the attention of the cultivators present.

It turned out that after Lingfeng Zhenren and Xuanji Zhenren finished communicating, they released the jade-white Moon-Embracing Immortal Boat, which spun around in the air and its size continued to expand and swell.

The cultivators of the South Pole Palace flew in and took their positions. After saying something to True Person Xuanji, True Person Lingfeng smiled with satisfaction, stepped into the air, landed on the boat, and instantly sailed away.

Lin Changheng also quietly counted the number of people on the boat.

Three people are missing.

This means that the Southern Palace also lost three cultivators on this trip.

However, the accident rate is much lower than the overall rate, which suggests that the cultivators of the Southern Palace are extremely powerful. Moreover, they are mostly exploring the core of secret realms, and the level of danger and difficulty varies.

"Everyone, in three days, the Purple Extreme Sect's secret realm exploration team will also be leaving. At that time, safety outside cannot be guaranteed. Please plan carefully and consider whether to stay or leave."

Xuanji Zhenren only spoke slowly after seeing the people from Ji Nangong leave.

"Thank you!"

"Thank you, Master Shangzong! Thank you, True Man!"

Upon hearing this, the cultivators were startled, expressed their gratitude, and immediately intensified their efforts to recover and heal their injuries.

Upon hearing this, Lin Changheng suddenly felt that the Ziji Sect's approach was quite good; no wonder the sect had a good reputation in the decades he had cultivated.

But I need to hurry, because cultivators may leave at any time.

"This fellow Daoist..."

Lin Changheng strode towards the woodcutter and monk, cupping his hands in greeting as he was about to speak.

"Fellow Daoist, do you wish to purchase the items I obtained from the secret realm?"

The woodcutter and the monk transmitted their voices directly to Lin Changheng.

"good."

Lin Changheng was taken aback, but immediately nodded and replied, not expecting the other party to be so proactive.

"hey-hey!"

The woodcutter cultivator took out a jade slip and flicked it into Lin Changheng's hand. "These are all items that I can sell. Fellow Daoist, take a look and see which ones you like?"

This unexpected turn of events caught Lin Changheng off guard, but he wasn't too surprised. He immediately used his divine sense to investigate.

In fact, this woodcutter was quite famous; he was a rogue cultivator named Ye Wugui.

He had demonstrated exceptional bravery and formidable strength in several large-scale pioneering expeditions of the Ziji Sect, earning numerous merits. The Ziji Sect intended to recruit him, but he politely declined, choosing instead to remain a carefree rogue cultivator.

The Purple Extreme Sect was not angry. Instead, they established him as a benchmark for independent cultivators and treated him specially in all aspects.

For example, this time, Ye Wugui's spot for exploring the secret realm was granted by the Ziji Sect alone, unlike other rogue cultivators who obtained it by affiliating with a family.

Moreover, it is said that he also possesses a magical treasure embryo, which he nurtures day and night. Once it successfully forms a core, it will be fully formed and possess combat power that surpasses even those in the early stages of core formation.

After all, the strength of a Core Formation cultivator who possesses a magic weapon is on a completely different level than that of a Core Formation cultivator who does not possess a magic weapon or is in the process of refining one.

"I wonder how you sell your [Lava Crystal], fellow Daoist?"

Lin Changheng scanned them and found they were all quite good materials, mostly wood and earth elements. They might be valuable and needed by others, but Lin Changheng had no use for them.

Some of the items that had already been sold had been wiped away, but faint traces were still visible.

Only the "Lava Fire Crystal" mentioned in the jade slip is obtained from the bottom of a volcano or from a special fire environment, and has a powerful and abundant accumulation of fire essence.

It can enhance the cultivation of fire-based techniques and also help the innate demonic fire of second-tier demonic beasts and birds undergo transformation.

Firstly, it's useful for him who practices fire magic.

The second point, however, caught his eye even more.

Although he has no fire-type demonic beasts or birds, he possesses the natal demonic fire of the Crimson Crane. The Crimson Demonic Fire, through spirit-stealing and transformation, gives rise to the Crimson Profound Flame.

It should be suitable for use as well.

Now, the "crimson true essence" cultivated through the Jade Void Bright Scripture has been fed to the Crimson Sky Profound Flame for a long time. In addition, there is the fist-sized crimson crystal obtained earlier, which originated from the same sect's cultivation method. With these accumulations, it has already reached about 70% of its original size.

After all, it's a second-tier flame; the requirements for transforming it into a third-tier flame are enormous.

With this, we can move forward another step.

……

"This item is precious. It can be bartered or purchased with spirit stones, but the latter will be more expensive. Bartering is more cost-effective."

Ye Wugui spoke, his inclination clear.

He wanted to barter, but spirit stones were also an option if you could afford the premium.

In fact, once you reach the Core Formation stage, bartering will become more common, because often, spirit stones cannot buy the precious items you desire.

"What would you like to exchange, fellow Daoist?"

Upon hearing this, Lin Changheng felt reassured. He might not have the spiritual materials or treasures the other party wanted, but he had plenty of spirit stones. As long as the price wasn't too outrageous, he could afford to pay a premium.

He didn't want to miss out on this item. Once he could transform the [Crimson Sky Profound Flame] to the third tier, he could easily deal with attacks from late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, and even injure or kill them.

"The main ingredient of the second-tier [Youth Preservation Pill], the main and auxiliary ingredients of the [Return to Truth Pill] or [Dust Reduction Pill] required for core formation, as well as the smelting materials that can enhance the strength of the magic weapon embryo... If the value is not commensurate, I can make up the difference so that you don't suffer a loss."

Ye Wugui was clearly very familiar with the task, and he launched into a long speech.

Lin Changheng immediately gave a wry smile: "What you need, Brother Dao, is far too precious. I am only in the mid-Foundation Establishment stage. How could I possibly obtain these treasures, and from what source could I possibly acquire them?"

Ye Wugui smiled and said, "It would be better if you had some, but if not, we can trade spirit stones."

"Twenty-five thousand spirit stones, you can take the [Lava Crystal]."

Lin Changheng frowned upon hearing this and shook his head, "I can afford a premium, but I cannot accept this kind of premium method..."

There was clearly some displeasure in their words, which was obviously a case of being wronged.

This price can not only get you a genuine Foundation Establishment Pill, but also a decent second-tier mid-grade spiritual weapon.

"Who in this region doesn't know of Ye's character and reputation? He's well-known even in the upper sects. Fellow Daoist, you haven't even seen the actual item, so how can you be so arbitrary?"

Ye Wugui smiled and asked in return, then reached into his storage bag and took out a large, square wooden box, handing it to Lin Changheng. Lin Changheng opened it and saw a crimson crystal, about the size of an adult's head, inside.

"So big?"

Lin Changheng's pupils contracted slightly.

"How about it?"

Ye Wugui noticed Lin Changheng's behavior and immediately smiled.

Looking at the price now, it seemed much more reasonable, but Lin Changheng still bargained as usual.

After some tug-of-war, seeing the growing impatience on Ye Wugui's face, Lin Changheng immediately made the decision.

Purchased for 24,000 spirit stones.

Lin Changheng estimates that using this crystal to cultivate and catalyze the [Crimson Sky Mystic Flame] could boost its accumulation by at least 10% and possibly as much as 20%.

After the two finished their transaction, a newcomer named Hanxiao came over, intending to trade with Ye Wugui. Lin Changheng then took his leave.

The next day,
Lin Changheng did not obtain any more of his desired or useful items; either the other party had left, or the prices were exorbitantly high.

Instead, they encountered something the fat monk needed.

If you accept it, you might be able to exchange it for what the other party needs.

At this point, many cultivators felt that it was time to leave and departed one after another. Lin Changheng even noticed that some cultivators, although they left a little later, were clearly following in the direction of those who had gone before them.

Most likely, they were plotting to kill and steal the treasure.

At this moment, Lin Changheng kept an eye on the Qiu family patriarch. Although he did not look directly at him, he kept a close watch on him out of the corner of his eye.

The other party may leave at any time.

Thinking this, Lin Changheng went directly to the fat cultivator who had just finished his work and asked him about the situation.

If the other party also obtains what they need, that would be even better, and they could exchange what they need. If not, they could simply leave with the Qiu family patriarch without worrying about missing out.

"Hehe, Fellow Daoist Lin, I have indeed found something you need."

The portly cultivator's face was beaming with a smug smile. He rubbed his hands together and lowered his voice, saying, "It took a lot of effort to persuade that cultivator to let me get the third-grade spirit wood you need, fellow Daoist. The quality is definitely up to par. You see..."

"Oh? Fellow Daoist, please take it out so I can take a look?"

Lin Changheng raised an eyebrow; this was an unexpected delight.

His body-refining technique has not ended; he can continue to cultivate the sixth level and even reach the peak of the late second stage.

However, there is a lack of subsequent breakthrough methods.

At that time, one will need to switch to a cultivation method compatible with the "Evergreen Body of Azure Wood" or deduce it oneself to continue the broken path.

The worst-case scenario is that it needs to be repaired.

It is extremely troublesome and tedious, and should only be done as a last resort.

These third-tier spirit woods can accelerate Lin Changheng's subsequent body refining progress.

"Easy to say."

The fat monk stretched out his fleshy hand and flipped it over. A piece of wood, about three feet long and as thick as a bowl, appeared in his hand.

The moment this wood appeared, the surrounding air seemed to become fresher. The wood had a warm, deep dark purple color throughout, and its surface was incredibly smooth, but it was not artificially polished; rather, it was naturally formed, with natural wood grain patterns like ripples in water.

Upon closer inspection, one can even see traces of green remaining in the texture.

Lin Changheng carefully took the object into his hands, activated the true meaning of the [Rongsheng Divine Power], and immediately sensed that the wood still had a faint residual life force, like a firefly in the dead of night.

A rich, aged aroma of wood wafts towards you, and the wood itself exudes a unique sandalwood fragrance that soothes the mind and calms the spirit. Just one whiff is enough to bring peace to your soul.

"This is a low-grade, third-tier spirit wood, [Golden Silk Sandalwood]!"

The portly cultivator lowered his voice, a hint of boasting in his tone, "Look at this quality, this spiritual essence! Not only is it the main material for refining wood-type spiritual artifacts and making related talismans, but wearing it for a long time can also nourish the mind and spirit, calm the mind and enter a meditative state, and has a certain effect in resisting the invasion of inner demons. I almost wore my lips out trying to persuade that guy to part with it..."

Lin Changheng's gaze was instantly drawn to the piece of spirit wood.

With his keen eyesight, he could naturally see the special features of this object. The wood spirit energy contained within it would greatly help his cultivation of the "Evergreen Wood Body" technique!
He was secretly delighted, but showed no sign of it on his face. He carefully examined the spirit wood, paying particular attention to the annual rings and the flow of spiritual light at the break, confirming that it was not a dead tree.

"I wonder if it's possible to replant?"

This unusual situation sparked an idea in Lin Changheng's mind.

Generally speaking, once a section of a sacred tree is removed from its trunk, its vitality will rapidly dissipate, making it unavoidable for talismans and spells that seal the spirit.

But this piece of wood seems different. It has been taken down for at least ten days, yet it still has a bit of life in it and looks quite stable. It won't dissipate anytime soon.

Furthermore, without roots, replanting is impossible; if the roots wither and die, it is also impossible.

However, this object is unique, and with the assistance of Lin Changheng's [Rongsheng Divine Power], there might be a possibility of its resurrection.

Even if it's not possible, Lin Changheng can still use it for body tempering, so it's not a loss.

……

A thousand thoughts raced through his mind, but on the surface, Lin Changheng nodded calmly and said in a composed tone, "It is indeed what I need. Thank you for your trouble, fellow Daoist."

"It just so happens that I, Lin, also acquired something that is on your list, fellow Daoist."

Upon hearing this, the fat cultivator immediately smiled, his small eyes narrowing into slits as he carefully examined the item given to him by Lin Changheng.

Although this item is not as good as the third-grade low-quality [Golden Silk Sandalwood], the difference is not too great. After some communication, Lin Changheng made a spirit stone compensation, and the transaction was completed.

The two worked together quite well and exchanged names.

This fat cultivator is named "Zhu Fugui". He belongs to a large merchant guild in the number one immortal city in Song Dynasty, [Jishan Immortal City], and has been sent to do the acquisition.

"Wealthy?"

Lin Changheng subconsciously thought of his friend, "Xu Fugui," whose name was somewhat similar, which naturally gave rise to a sense of goodwill, but it did not affect his caution and steadiness.

However, he did not hide his name and revealed that he was a second-tier mid-grade alchemist who made a living by refining pills in the [Floating Life Immortal City] mentioned at the beginning.

The two exchanged tokens, perhaps hoping to have the opportunity to meet and cooperate again in the future.

The token Zhu Fugui presented was a token bearing the logo of the Chamber of Commerce.

He further stated that if Lin Changheng has time to visit [Jishan Immortal City] in the future, he must come and find him. Perhaps he can't help with other things, but he can still provide assistance if needed to purchase anything.

Lin Changheng's mind raced, and he asked, "Do you have large quantities of the essence blood of demonic beasts of the Zhuo Sha, Xuan Ling, and above?"

On the surface, it's still just an excuse to study alchemical formulas.

Zhu Fugui smiled mysteriously, raised the item he had exchanged with Lin Changheng, and indicated that he would most likely settle down in the Immortal City in three years, at which time he would be able to help.

"Oh?"

Lin Changheng's eyes flickered slightly. It seemed that he was at a critical juncture for promotion. Once he broke through, his authority might be different.

Only then will we be able to speak.

(End of this chapter)