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

Chapter 243 Spiritual Plants and Geomancy, Reunion with the True Master

In Lin Changheng's sight.

One can vaguely see the protective formations operating on the two islands not far away, as well as the nodes where energy flows and converges on the invisible barrier that is flashing with spiritual light!

However, due to the insufficient level of [Insight into Other Techniques], coupled with the continuous operation and changes of the formation, it is difficult to accurately locate it.

However, Lin Changheng knew that as the process of seizing spirits and transforming beings continued, these problems and shortcomings would be resolved one by one.

……

Similarly, because of the shielding formation, Lin Changheng's view was blocked, and the specific layout and facilities of the two main islands could not be seen.

But the unclaimed island was clearly visible.

The island is nearly round, about five miles in circumference, which is large enough to provide a space for two people and three spirit beasts to roam.

There are relatively few buildings on the top, mostly viewing pavilions and the remains of several centrally located main halls, which should be cave dwellings left by our ancestors.

On the left edge of the shallow water, there are several specially cultivated spiritual fields, the soil of which is also imbued with the spiritual energy of water, making them suitable for planting specific spiritual plants.

On the right is a square lake, which is an island lake and covers an area of ​​about 20 acres.

It is a perfect habitat for the Deep Lake Spirit Clam.

Behind them was a small, towering mountain range on the island, covered with vegetation, which acted as a fence to guard the area behind them.

"Not bad." Lin Changheng glanced over the area and was quite satisfied with the Jade Belt Lake spiritual land.

This place, compared to Cuiping Peak, is more suitable for his stable nature and also meets his current needs.

It's a good choice.

In particular, the mountains on the island behind can serve as both a defensive stronghold and a hiding place for secret caves.

As the saying goes, "a cunning rabbit has three burrows," so it is essential to set up a hidden cave in the shadows.

This was his first thought.

……

As for the issue of dampness, Lin Changheng didn't seem to mind.

However, it is also possible to set up several special formations to avoid water and dehumidify for isolation, which is not a difficult task for Lin Changheng, a near-first-tier high-grade formation master.

Then, concealing the divine light in his eyes, he slowly descended, landing on the large island to visit his neighbor.

In fact, he already had a strong interest in the "Jade Belt Lake" cave.

……

Of course, Lin Changheng did not directly touch the formation. Instead, he stood in front of it and calmly released the aura of a mid-Foundation Establishment cultivator, intending to attract the attention of the cultivators inside.

The aura was condensed and did not dissipate, carrying no provocative intent, like a knock on a door.

This gesture is both a courtesy and an implicit notification that a guest has arrived.

In a short while, the originally calm array light screen rippled, opening a portal. A young female cultivator dressed in a purple silk dress flew out from within, riding a magical artifact. Her cultivation level was at the seventh level of Qi Refining.

Upon seeing Lin Changheng, she immediately bowed respectfully with her hands clasped in greeting.

"This junior is Chu Lingyu, the steward of the Jade Belt Lake Spirit Land, and a disciple of the Purple Extreme Sect. I was unaware of your presence, senior. I apologize for not welcoming you properly."

Her attitude was respectful yet neither servile nor arrogant, clearly showing she was worldly-wise. "I wonder what guidance you have given me, senior?"

"I, Lin, come from the Immortal City of Floating Life and have a long-standing relationship with your sect. I happen to need a cave dwelling and was recommended by Fellow Daoist Shangguan to come here for a visit. I also took the opportunity to visit the neighbors here."

Lin Changheng smiled warmly and approachably, then stated his purpose, "I wonder if the owner of this place is here?"

"Senior Lin, your timing is perfect. Senior Xu from 'Rising Sun Island' and Senior Cheng from 'Floating Star Island' have both been here recently."

Chu Lingyu has an oval face, but she has a heroic and spirited air about her. Upon hearing this, she smiled with her red lips slightly pursed.

“That’s excellent. It seems I’ve arrived at just the right time… Would you mind asking young friend Chu to go and inform them?”

Lin Changheng nodded slightly.

At this moment, Lin Changheng keenly sensed a massive divine sense sweeping past, even stronger than his own. It was definitely not a mid-Foundation Establishment stage divine sense; it should be the strength of a late-Foundation Establishment stage divine sense.

Normally, such divine sense could be shielded from ordinary mid-Foundation Establishment cultivators, but he still managed to sense it.

The Yuan Ding Treasure Seed, True Core, and Dao Fruit have a miraculous effect on cleansing the soul.

Then Chu Lingyu nodded slightly, indicating that she had received some kind of telepathic message.

"Senior Lin, this way please. Senior Xu invites you in."

Then he took the lead and flew away on his weapon.

Lin Changheng said "Thank you for your trouble" and followed gracefully.

After breaking through the formation and entering the island, it felt like entering a fertile land.

There were no exotic flowers or rare herbs; what came into view were vast stretches of meticulously cultivated and well-maintained spiritual fields! The field ridges were neat and uniform, and the soil was a deep brown color rich in spiritual energy.

At this moment, it is the season when a certain spiritual plant matures. Golden waves of ears of grain cover the earth, and the heavy ears of grain bend the stems. They sway in the wind and emit a special wheat fragrance that is refreshing and invigorating. Just one breath makes you feel comfortable all over.

In the distance, several spiritual fields were planted with other crops, some like burning flames, others like low-lying emeralds, all growing very well and full of spiritual energy.

Several white-robed cultivators and many more spirit plant growers were scattered throughout the fields, some using the [Minor Cloud Rain Technique] to irrigate, others using the [Gengjin Grass-Slaying Sword] to kill insects, and still others carefully harvesting the golden spirit wheat with jade knives—a scene of bustling activity.

The entire island is essentially a highly efficient and sizable spiritual plant farm!

Instead of being a cultivation ground for late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators, it was completely different from the tranquil place of seclusion he had imagined. It was full of vibrant life and the lively atmosphere of a bountiful harvest.

“This…” Lin Changheng was slightly taken aback, then suddenly realized.

Yes, Steward Shangguan had mentioned that the spirit fields on the island were a source of additional income. He just hadn't expected that this "additional income" would be so large, occupying almost most of the island's usable flat land.

Only a few houses are scattered across the island, a rare sight amidst this vast expanse of farmland.

"It seems that the lessee of this place, that cultivator surnamed Xu, is most likely a cultivator who is devoted to the path of spiritual plants, and is a spiritual plant master."

Lin Changheng thought to himself.

Although this scene differed slightly from his initial vision of a secluded retreat, its abundant and vibrant atmosphere possessed a unique charm, making it feel more grounded and secure.

Soon, the two flew over the farmland and saw a group of grand halls behind them.

Soon, a Foundation Establishment cultivator who looked like a middle-aged farmer was seen waiting in the hall.

This person was not wearing a magnificent robe, but only a coarse cloth short jacket that had been washed until it was slightly faded, with some fresh mud stains on the trouser legs, as if he had just returned from working in the fields.

His face was dark and deeply wrinkled, clearly showing he had suffered a lot. His large hands, with large knuckles and covered in calluses, were casually wiping himself on his clothes.

However, despite his simple and unadorned appearance, even somewhat rustic, the spiritual pressure emanating from him was steady and profound, truly befitting a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator!

Especially his eyes, broad and bright, with a gentle and clear gaze, seemed to see through the world, without the murky look of an ordinary farmer. Seeing Lin Changheng enter led by Chu Lingyu, he didn't put on any airs of seniority or master. Instead, as if greeting a neighbor, he offered a very kind, even slightly naive, smile and took two steps forward to greet him.
"This must be Fellow Daoist Lin? My name is Xu Maoling. I'm so sorry for not greeting you sooner! Please come in and have a taste of the 'Azure Jade Spirit Tea' that I just picked from my own garden to quench your thirst!"

He speaks with a strong local flavor, his tone is warm and natural, which makes people feel good about him involuntarily.

As he spoke, he led Lin Changheng to a tea table on one side of the hall. A simple set of ceramic teaware had already been laid out on the table, and steam was rising from the spout of the teapot, emitting a unique aroma that blended the fresh fragrance of tea with the rich earthy scent.

This demeanor was completely different from what Lin Changheng had imagined the cave owner to be. He had none of the aloofness and arrogance of a cultivator. Instead, he seemed more like a hospitable and land-loving elder from the countryside, which instantly bridged the gap between them.

Lin Changheng was slightly surprised, but he didn't show it on his face. He cupped his hands and smiled, saying, "Brother Xu, you are too kind. It is I who have troubled you. I have occasionally heard of this 'Azure Jade Spirit Tea'. Today I am fortunate enough to have a good taste of it."

The two exchanged a smile, and the atmosphere instantly became harmonious. Lin Changheng's evaluation of this sacred place and its extraordinary owner rose even higher.

He has seen quite a few Foundation Establishment cultivators, as well as fake Core Formation and True Core cultivators, but this is the first time he has encountered one in this state and situation.

Moreover, he secretly used the [Insightful Observation Technique] to observe that the other party's aura was peaceful and there was no murderous aura.

Unlike their two neighbors at Cuiping Mountain, who were bloodthirsty and clearly didn't look like good people.

After all, skilled artisans like these have a stable ability to acquire resources and generally wouldn't choose the dangerous path of plundering cultivators...

Upon learning that Lin Changheng might rent a place on the vacant "Qiyue Island," the other party immediately expressed their welcome.

Upon learning that Lin Changheng was also a second-tier alchemist with a considerable reputation in the Floating Life Immortal City, the enthusiasm for welcoming him intensified.

He immediately expressed his hope that Fellow Daoist Lin would move here and bring a number of cultivators to visit, which would allow his spiritual plants and rice to find new markets.

"Brother Xu is truly honest."

Lin Changheng couldn't help but sigh.

Xu Maoling grinned, unconcerned: "I've never liked beating around the bush. I prefer to be straightforward and concise, which saves me the trouble of thinking things through. I'd rather spend that time cultivating and honing my skills."

Then, he patted his chest and said that if Fellow Daoist Lin moved to this island, the three islands could unite, coordinate offense and defense, and watch over each other, which would be enough to deal with any external crisis.

Lin Changheng nodded with a smile, "The future is uncertain, and we really will have to rely on Brother Xu's help."

After sitting for a while, Xu Maoling heard that Lin Changheng was taking his leave and planned to visit "Floating Star Island," so he offered to accompany him.

The island's owner, "Floating Star Island," is a young female cultivator who appears to be in her late twenties.

The middle stage of foundation building.

Her name is Cheng Suling.

They also possess a second-tier, mid-grade skill called "Feng Shui Master".

They can use their perception of the distribution of spiritual energy in heaven and earth and their observation of the trends of mountains and rivers to locate auspicious sites, determine the location of dwellings, and so on.

Specifically, this includes surveying spiritual veins, distinguishing earth energy, and being able to sense the auspiciousness or inauspiciousness of the earth's energy—whether it is a prosperous, blessed, or desolate, inauspicious, or ominous place—as a basis for choosing a cave dwelling and establishing a family or sect's residence.

It can also plan layouts, design the most reasonable building layout based on the terrain and the flow of spiritual energy, and even make preliminary plans for array nodes.

They can also search for minerals and treasures. High-level geomancers can even deduce whether there are spiritual minerals or certain rare and precious materials that depend on the earth's veins for growth by observing abnormalities in the earth's veins and the gathering of spiritual energy.

A geomancer who is skilled enough can not only "see" but also "change" things to a certain extent.

It is possible to fine-tune the distribution of spiritual energy in a local area by setting up formations, moving mountains and filling stones, etc., to turn evil into good and even improve the grade of a local spiritual vein. However, this is extremely difficult and can only be done by a geomancer with profound skills.

Xu Maoling had introduced this skill to Lin Changheng beforehand. He said it was very mysterious and slightly less difficult than formations, but it was still quite rare.

"Feng Shui master..."

Lin Changheng nodded thoughtfully.

In his heart, he wondered if the method of combining the three arts he had just mastered also had the rudiments of the art of geomancy.

……

The two arrived on the island and were warmly received by Cheng Suling.

Lin Changheng could clearly see that the two Foundation Establishment cultivator neighbors had a good relationship.

After the introductions, Cheng Suling looked at Lin Changheng with her bright eyes and said directly, "Alchemist Lin, I've heard of you."

Lin Changheng was taken aback for a moment, then laughed and said, "How could someone as insignificant as Lin have managed to reach Master Cheng's ears?"

“I also lived in the Immortal City for a period of time, but that was when Master Lin was rising to prominence. Later, I moved away from the Immortal City ahead of time for some reasons. Otherwise, we might have met long ago.”

Cheng Suling offered a brief explanation.

"I see. But we'll meet again sooner or later if we're meant to. This time, we'll probably be neighbors."

Lin Changheng smiled and raised his cup to offer tea.

"Then let's use this cup of wine in advance to welcome Fellow Daoist Lin."

Xu Maoling and Cheng Suling exchanged a smile, raised their glasses at the same time, and Xu Maoling spoke first.

……

half a month later.

Lin Changheng reappeared in the Floating Immortal City.

They went directly to the Ziji Sect's headquarters, confirmed the sacred site with Steward Shangguan, and signed a legal contract.

The magic mark is applied directly, and the agreement is fulfilled.

After Lin Changheng returned to Cave No. 98 in Outer Lake and informed Yan Mingyi, the woman was clearly excited.

They excitedly went to pack their things and belongings to take with them.

Lin Changheng went directly to Guo Qishi's house and retrieved the repaired bronze alms bowl.

And left the address with the other party.

If you need anything in the future, you can come to him.

Then, a communication jade slip was summoned, and with a "hum", it flew towards Floating Life Lake.

This is a message sent to Bai Hengwan and Bai Zhen.

It's mainly for two things:

Firstly, it is to inform them of their destination.

After all, he had a good relationship with Bai Zhenchuan, there was a foundation of trust, and he needed to rely on her for the essence of the demon beast, so he couldn't rashly lose contact with her.

These connections will still be useful in the future.

After all, this woman possesses a unique wind-type spiritual root at the Earth-grade level, and she has become a disciple of a late-stage Core Formation cultivator who owns an immortal city. Her future is promising, and she can be of great help.

……

(End of this chapter)