After my Daoist partners broke off their engagement, they pledged their loyalty to me!

The morning sunlight shone through the thin mist onto the bluestone street.

The morning market in Xiaolingdan City is at its busiest time of day.

The wooden doors of the shops on both sides of the street were gradually removed, making a creaking sound.

The air inside the pharmacy was filled with the delicate fragrance of various medicinal herbs, and the shop assistant at the entrance of the alchemy shop was wiping down the counter.

Steam rose from the breakfast stalls, carrying the aroma of steamed buns and rice porridge.

Jiang Lin strolled leisurely through the crowd with Gu Lanxing and the other two women.

All four were dressed in ordinary clothes and concealed their presence.

They looked like ordinary disciples of a sect traveling together.

"Young master, the spirit fruit pastries at that shop seem to be very popular," Liu Ningxiang said, pointing to a spot not far ahead.

It was a small pastry shop, and there were already seventeen or eighteen people lined up in front of it.

Golden-brown pastries are frying in the oil, filling the air with a sweet aroma.

The people in line chatted quietly, glancing occasionally at the progress in the pot.

"It really smells wonderful."

Qin Yue took a light breath, a hint of interest appearing in her eyes.

She turned to Jiang Lin and asked softly, "Would you like to try some, young master?"

Gu Lanxing stood beside Jiang Lin, her gaze sweeping over their surroundings.

She remained as vigilant as ever, but her expression was relatively relaxed.

After all, there should be no one in this Little Spirit Pill City who can threaten the young master.

Jiang Lin nodded: "Let's go buy some, we can eat as we walk."

Upon hearing this, Liu Ningxiang's eyes lit up, and she quickly walked to the end of the line.

She was wearing a light green dress today, and her hair was simply tied up in a bun.

While queuing, the older woman in front of her turned around, glanced at her, and struck up a conversation with her while smiling.

"Is this your first time visiting Little Spirit Pill City, young lady? This place has a long-established reputation for its spirit fruit pastries."

"Yes, I'm just accompanying my brother for a walk."

Liu Ningxiang responded politely with a gentle smile.

The auntie enthusiastically introduced, "Then you've come at the right time; they're crispiest when they're fresh out of the pan."

As they spoke, the line moved forward slowly.

Liu Ningxiang bought four packs and carefully wrapped them in oil paper.

She returned to Jiang Lin's side, holding the steaming hot paper package, her cheeks slightly flushed.

"Young master, it tastes best when it's hot."

As he spoke, he picked up a piece and offered it to Jiang Lin's lips.

Jiang Lin took a bite out of her hand.

The pastry crumbles between your teeth, and the filling is mashed red jujube pulp.

It has a perfect balance of sweet and sour, and also carries the unique fragrance of the fruit.

"good."

He took another bite before accepting the whole piece.

The three women each took a piece and tasted it in small bites.

Gu Lanxing ate the most elegantly, taking small bites.

Qin Yue ate with her eyes slightly narrowed, clearly enjoying the food.

Liu Ningxiang ate a piece herself, then looked at Jiang Lin.

"Does the young master still want it?"

"You can share it."

Jiang Lin waved his hand and looked toward the end of the long street.

That's the direction of the city center square, where the crowds seem denser.

The four of them ate and strolled around, passing several herbal medicine shops.

The shopkeepers displayed newly arrived medicinal herbs at the entrance, their aroma filling the air.

Alchemists were carefully selecting items at the stall, haggling with the shopkeeper.

Everything seemed normal and orderly.

No one noticed these four extraordinary young people.

They would never have imagined that the young man surrounded by three stunningly beautiful women was among them.

It turned out to be the newly appointed Holy Son of the Misty Holy Land.

Just as Liu Ningxiang was about to buy some more candied fruit, a commotion suddenly arose at the other end of the street.

The sound of orderly footsteps approached from afar, accompanied by the slight scraping of armor.

The crowd automatically parted to the sides of the street, making way for the middle road.

"It's the city lord's guard!"

Someone exclaimed softly and quickly retreated to the side of the road.

The people stopped and looked on curiously.

A group of more than twenty guards marched in.

They were dressed in standard black armor, with long swords at their waists, and their expressions were solemn.

Their steps were synchronized and uniform, clearly indicating that they were well-trained.

But that's not the most eye-catching thing.

Two women were walking side by side ahead of the guard.

The woman on the left is wearing a light purple long dress with flowing cloud patterns, and a thin gauze shawl over it.

Her hair was tied up high, with a golden hairpin tucked in at an angle, swaying gently with her steps.

She was beautiful, with a mature charm in her eyes and brows, as well as the authority of someone who had long held a high position.

It was Guan Yuyan, the city lord of Xiaolingdan City.

The woman on the right is dressed in a light yellow outfit with a jade belt around her waist.

Her long hair was tied up high with a gold ring, revealing her smooth forehead and bright eyes.

She was tall and straight, with a brisk pace, and her heroic spirit revealed a touch of wildness; it was Guan Xin.

The mother and daughter look about 70% alike.

Their temperaments, however, are completely different.

One is as graceful and elegant as a blooming peony, the other as dashing and heroic as a drawn sword.

Such a spectacle appearing on a bustling city street immediately caused a sensation.

"It's the City Lord and Miss Guan Xin!"

"Why did they come to the street themselves? That's quite unusual."

"Judging by this direction, are they heading out of the city to welcome some important figure?"

"That's not right, I didn't hear that any distinguished guests were coming today..."

The people whispered among themselves, discussing the matter animatedly.

Many young monks stared wide-eyed.

Guan Yuyan is beautiful and mature, while Guan Xin is spirited and beautiful.

This mother and daughter are truly the two most outstanding individuals in Xiaolingdan City, and are rarely seen on ordinary days.

It's quite rare to see them both on the street today.

Guan Yuyan's gaze swept calmly over the crowd, her steps neither hurried nor slow.

She had dressed up specially for today, and her pale purple dress made her skin look as white as snow.

The gold hairpin shimmered with tiny sparkles in the morning light, adding to its noble air.

Guan Xin followed half a step beside her mother, her gaze sharp.

She kept scanning her surroundings, as if searching for something.

The mother and daughter, accompanied by their guards, headed straight towards Jiang Lin's location.

As they moved forward, the crowd parted like a tide.

The murmurs gradually subsided, and everyone watched with bated breath.

Finally, Guan Yuyan stopped three zhang away from Jiang Lin.

Guan Xin also stopped, and the guards lined up neatly.

The entire street suddenly fell silent; you could hear a pin drop.

All eyes were on the mother and daughter.

Guan Yuyan straightened her sleeves and took two steps forward.

Under the watchful eyes of everyone, she looked at Jiang Lin, who was eating spirit fruit pastries.

She gave a graceful bow, her waist curving in a beautiful arc.

Her voice was clear and respectful, echoing throughout the street: "I am Guan Yuyan, and I bring my daughter Guan Xin to invite Your Highness to return to your residence."

Guan Xin also bowed respectfully, her posture upright.

"Guan Xin respectfully welcomes His Highness the Holy Son."

Dead silence.

A deathly silence that lasted for three breaths.

Everyone on the street was stunned, their eyes wide.

Many people were still holding their breakfast, their mouths half-open.

Your Highness?

Which holy son?

One of the cultivators suddenly realized what was happening and gasped.

"Could it be... the new Holy Son of the Misty Holy Land?"

"A few days ago, an imperial edict did indeed arrive, announcing the investiture of the Holy Son..."

"But why would the Holy Son come to our Little Spirit Pill City? And so discreetly?"

After the initial shock came a flurry of discussion.

"Whoosh!"

The whole street instantly erupted in chaos.

Everyone looked at the young man surrounded by three women.

He was still holding half a piece of spirit fruit pastry in his hand, his expression calm.

It was as if they were already used to this scene.

"Is he really the Holy Son? So young?"

"Nonsense! The city lord himself bowed in respect, how could it be fake?"

"No wonder you have such an outstanding presence; I sensed something special about you earlier!"

"Those three young ladies are all stunningly beautiful; they must be the Holy Son's attendants..."

The discussions surged like a tide, mixed with amazement, awe, and curiosity.

Jiang Lin slowly finished the last bite of the spirit fruit pastry in his hand, then took the silk handkerchief from Liu Ningxiang and wiped his hands.

Only then did he look at Guan Yuyan and her daughter, who were still bowing.

Get up.

His voice was calm, revealing no emotion.

"Thank you, Your Highness."

Guan Yuyan and Guan Xin then straightened up.

But his posture remained respectful, with his head slightly bowed.

Guan Yuyan stepped forward and said softly:

"Your Highness, the newly drafted city management strategy is ready."

"I have come here to respectfully invite Your Highness to visit the City Lord's Mansion so that I may review your application and make a decision."

Her voice wasn't loud, but it was loud enough for those around her to hear clearly.

This was done on purpose, to spread the word through the mouths of others.

The Holy Son's visit to Little Lingdan City must be made public.

This is the only way to pave the way for subsequent reforms and reduce resistance.

Jiang Lin naturally understood her intention and nodded slightly.

"lead the way."

"Yes, Your Highness, please."

Guan Yuyan stepped aside to invite him, her posture respectful.

The guards immediately parted the road and lined up on both sides.

Guan Xin also stepped aside and stood with her hands at her sides.

Jiang Lin strode forward, with Gu Lanxing and the other two women following closely behind.

Liu Ningxiang carefully put away the unfinished spirit fruit pastry and quickly followed, with Qin Yue and Gu Lanxing flanking Jiang Lin on either side.

Wherever he went, the people bowed and paid their respects.

Many people were so excited that their faces turned red.

"Greetings, Your Highness!"

"Welcome, Your Highness, to Little Spirit Pill City!"

Greetings rose and fell, and more and more people knelt down.

This is the Holy Son of the Misty Holy Land!

I had only heard of this existence in rumors before, but today I actually saw it with my own eyes.

Jiang Lin remained calm and accepted the greeting with composure.

Guan Yuyan and her daughter led the way, crossing the long street.

The shopkeepers and employees of all the shops along the way ran out.

They leaned over the door and windowsill, craning their necks to look around.

The news spread like wildfire throughout the city.

"The Holy Son has arrived! He's on East Street!"

"Really? The city lord himself came to greet us?"

"Absolutely true! I saw it with my own eyes!"

"Go check it out quickly! You'll miss it if you wait!"

Crowds poured in from all directions.

The streets were packed with people, and the city lord's guards quickly tried to maintain order by shouting loudly.

"Step back! Do not offend the Holy Son!"

"Everyone, step back! Keep your distance!"

It took a lot of effort to clear a passage.

Guan Yuyan's forehead was covered in a fine sweat, and she felt uneasy.

She glanced at Jiang Lin secretly and saw that the Holy Son's expression remained unchanged.

Only then did he feel a little relieved and continue leading the way.

It's only a three-mile journey from East Street to the City Lord's Mansion.

It took them a full quarter of an hour to reach the gate of the mansion.

The city lord's mansion had already received the news, and its gates were wide open.

All the stewards, guards, and maids lined up outside the door to greet them.

Upon seeing Jiang Lin arrive, they all bowed in greeting.

"Welcome, Your Highness!"

The shouts were orderly and the atmosphere was solemn.

Guan Yuyan stepped aside and said, "Please, Your Highness."

Jiang Lin stepped inside, followed closely by Gu Lanxing and the other two women.

Just as Guan Xin was about to follow, Guan Yuyan whispered an instruction:

"Xin'er, you stay outside and maintain order. Don't let any unauthorized people get close."

"Yes, Mother."

Guan Xin understood and stayed outside the mansion gate.

Guan Yuyan quickly followed Jiang Lin and led him to the study.

After passing through many courtyards, we arrived at the depths of the city lord's mansion.

The environment here is quiet and secluded, with few servants around.

The study is located in a separate courtyard, where green bamboo is planted.

When the wind blows, the bamboo leaves rustle.

"Your Highness, this way please."

Guan Yuyan pushed open the study door and stepped aside to invite him in.

Jiang Lin entered the study and looked around.

The study is spacious and bright, with bookshelves on three sides.

Various books and documents were neatly stacked on top.

In the center is a long table made of rosewood, on which thick files have been laid out.

A tea table is set up by the window, complete with tea sets, and the aroma of tea wafts through the air.

"Your Highness, please have a seat."

Guan Yuyan personally brought over the carved chair and brushed it with her sleeve.

Her posture was respectful, like that of a maid.

Jiang Lin sat down in the main seat, with the three women standing behind him.

Guan Xin, having finished arranging matters outside, quickly entered.

She closed the study door behind her and activated the soundproofing.

Only then did he walk to the long table and stand side by side with his mother.

"Your Highness, this is a new strategy drafted overnight."

Guan Xin stepped forward and began to explain in detail.

She opened the first file, which was clearly organized.

The strategy is divided into three main parts and twelve detailed rules.

"Part One: Abolishing the Old System and Reshaping the Rules."

"Effective immediately, all regulations concerning forced requisition, forced purchase, and forced replacement are hereby abolished."

"Including but not limited to various unreasonable conscriptions of alchemists and merchants."

"Establish an open, transparent, and fair trading market where all items are clearly priced."

"Establish a rating system for alchemists, conduct monthly assessments, and grant different benefits based on their rating."

"Open up 30% of the City Lord's Mansion's pill formula repository for borrowing at a fair price."

Guan Xin spoke at a steady pace, clearly having memorized the entire text.

As she spoke, she observed Jiang Lin's expression.

Seeing Jiang Lin's gaze fall on the dossier, he nodded slightly.

Feeling a little more at ease, I turned to the second book.

"Part Two: Optimize the environment to attract talent."

"The east and west markets will be expanded, adding 300 stalls."

"All stall rents will be reduced by 30% for the first three years."

"Establish a subsidy for alchemists, providing an additional monthly subsidy of spirit stones to alchemists of the fourth rank and above."

"Establish a dispute arbitration mechanism, composed of representatives from the City Lord's Mansion, the Alchemist Guild, and merchants."

"To ensure fair transactions and protect the rights and interests of all parties."

"Establish exclusive supply channels for elixirs with the seven surrounding cities, and prioritize purchasing elixirs produced by Xiaolingdan City."

She paused, then added:

"In addition, we plan to hold an alchemy competition every year."

"The bonus has been doubled to attract more alchemists."

"The top three will be granted the status of guest elders of the city lord's mansion, enjoying numerous privileges."

After finishing this part, Guan Xin looked at Jiang Lin.

Jiang Lin tapped the armrest lightly with his fingers, remaining noncommittal.

"continue."

"Yes."

Guan Xin took a deep breath and opened the third file.

This is the core part, and it's where her ambition lies.

Part Three: Long-Term Planning and Sustainable Development.

"The plan is to increase Xiaolingdan City's share of elixir trading in the northern part of the Eastern Xuan Domain from the current 20% to more than 35% within three years."

"Tax revenue is expected to quadruple, with 70% going to the Holy Son."

"The remaining 30% will be reserved for city development funds and used for infrastructure construction."

"At the same time, establish an intelligence network covering the northern part of the Eastern Xuan Region."

"Using caravans as a base, we established strongholds in major cities."

"Collect information on resources such as elixirs, spiritual herbs, and minerals."

"Summarize regularly and report to His Highness the Holy Son."

After Guan Xin finished speaking, she closed the file and stood respectfully.

Awaiting judgment.

Guan Yuyan added at the opportune moment:

"Your Highness, although this strategy was drafted by Xin'er..."

"But I also participated in the discussion of the details to ensure they were feasible."

"Especially in the construction of intelligence networks, I have some connections."

"We are able to initially establish seven bases within three months."

The study fell silent, save for the rustling of bamboo leaves outside the window.

Jiang Lin did not immediately express his opinion, but instead picked up the case file.

I carefully turned the pages one by one, at a leisurely pace.

He watched intently, pausing occasionally as if deep in thought.

Guan Yuyan and her daughter held their breath, their hearts filled with trepidation.

They worked through the night to finish this strategy.

We must carefully consider and refine our work to ensure thoroughness.

If the Holy Son is not satisfied, all previous efforts will have been in vain.

After drinking half a cup of tea, Jiang Lin put down the last file.

He looked up at the mother and daughter.

"Overall, it's acceptable; the framework is clear, and the goals are well-defined."

The short ten words brought a sense of relief to Guan Yuyan and her daughter.

But Jiang Lin changed the subject.

"However, there are a few places that need adjustment."

"Your Highness, please enlighten me." Guan Xin bowed quickly.

Jiang Lin pointed out the first place:

"The alchemist rating system is too complicated in its details."

"Simplified into four levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and master."

"Each tier offers different benefits; simply follow the Alchemist Guild's certification guidelines."

"Do not add assessments on your own, as this will only create unnecessary complexity."

Guan Xin's eyes lit up upon hearing this.

"Your Highness is wise; it was Guan Xin who failed to consider this."

She originally wanted to establish a nine-tier rating system to highlight professionalism.

However, it is indeed too cumbersome and not conducive to implementation.

Jiang Lin continued:

"The alchemist subsidy will be distributed in stages."

"Initially, the price can be appropriately increased to attract talent."

"Once a clustering effect is formed, the price will gradually fall back to a reasonable level."

"You can calculate the specific amount yourselves and then submit it to me for approval."

"Yes."

Guan Xin took notes carefully, feeling admiration in her heart.

The Holy Son immediately saw the crux of the problem.

If subsidies are fixed, the financial pressure will be significant in the long run.

A phased adjustment is the only long-term solution.

"Third, the construction of intelligence networks should be given top priority."

Jiang Lin's tone became more forceful.

"Resource information is more important than spirit stones."

"Guan Yuyan will personally take charge of this matter and get it started as soon as possible."

"I want to see results as soon as possible."

Guan Yuyan quickly bowed and said, "I accept your command and will certainly not fail you."

Jiang Lin nodded, and finally emphasized:

"Most importantly, all rules must be open and transparent."

"I will establish the position of Holy Son Inspector in the city."

"I will appoint people to conduct inspections at irregular intervals."

"If it is discovered that someone is outwardly compliant but inwardly defiant, deceiving superiors and concealing the truth

He didn't finish speaking, but his meaning was clear.

Guan Yuyan felt a chill run down her spine and quickly bowed.

"I will certainly abide by the rules and would never dare to disobey them."

"If I disobey, I am willing to accept any punishment."

Guan Xin also solemnly said:

"Guan Xin swears with a righteous heart that she will not fail Your Highness's trust."

"If the three-year agreement is not fulfilled, I am willing to accept severe punishment."

Jiang Lin then revealed a slight smile.

"In that case, let us proceed with this strategy."

"You can refine the details yourselves and submit a progress report monthly."

"I will decide on the choice of inspector before I leave the city."

"yes!"

The mother and daughter responded in unison, feeling a great weight lifted from their hearts.

The approval of the strategy means that the Holy Son has recognized them.

This also means that Little Spirit Pill City has officially come under the Holy Son's control.

Just as Guan Yuyan was about to speak, Jiang Lin suddenly raised his hand.

"There's one more thing."

His gaze fell on Guan Yuyan and her daughter.

His calm gaze sent a chill down their spines.

"Since you have chosen to pledge allegiance to me..."

"I will then implant control mechanisms within your bodies."

"This method will not affect your cultivation or daily life."

"But if a divided mind arises, I can know it at any time and extinguish it at any time."

Jiang Lin's voice was soft, yet it carried an undeniable authority.

Guan Yuyan's delicate body trembled slightly, and then she lowered her head.

"I understand, Your Highness. Please proceed."

She was prepared; true loyalty cannot be without restraint.

Guan Xin also took a deep breath and knelt on one knee.

"Guan Xin willingly submitted to the control without any complaints."

Jiang Lin said no more, a faint purple light appearing in his eyes.

The Soul Devouring Technique was quietly activated, and spiritual energy emanated from the body.

This is not an attack, but a seed.

With his current spiritual cultivation level, he planted the Spirit Devouring Slave Seal.

Unless it is an entity whose spiritual power far surpasses his that makes the move.

Otherwise, no one can solve it, and no one can observe it.

Guan Yuyan felt a chill between her brows.

It seems as if a subtle imprint has seeped into the depths of one's spiritual thoughts.

The mark was connected to her spiritual consciousness, yet she could not touch it.

She could clearly sense that her life or death was in Jiang Lin's hands.

But at the same time, a trace of warmth emanates from the brand.

Like the warm winter sun, nourishing the soul.

It even has a slight auxiliary effect on cultivation.

This left her with mixed feelings, a mix of melancholy and relief that the mark planted by the Holy Son had actually been beneficial to her spiritual practice.

It is clear that this was not purely about control, but also included an element of reward.

Guan Xin felt the same way.

That imprint is deeply ingrained in the mind, like a shadow following you.

She could sense Jiang Lin's will, both vague and vast.

It felt as if I were facing a vast starry sky, and I felt a sense of awe.

From then on, her life, death, honor, and disgrace all depended on Jiang Lin's single thought.

But the warmth of the brand gave her peace of mind, as if as long as she remained loyal, nothing would happen.

Once the seal was complete, the purple light in Jiang Lin's eyes dissipated.

"alright."

He spoke casually, as if he had done something trivial.

Guan Yuyan and her daughter felt a deeper connection between them.

That was a sense of awe and closeness to the natural beauty of Jianglin.

"Thank you for your trust, Your Highness."

The two bowed again, their posture becoming even more respectful.

The Soul-Devouring Slave Seal has been planted; from now on, they are Jiang Lin's people.

Guan Yuyan said softly, "Your Highness, the strategy has been decided."

"Will it be promulgated and implemented today?"

"Can."

Jiang Lin got up and looked out the window.

"I won't stay any longer; the appointment at the Immortal Pool Holy Land is approaching."

Upon hearing this, Guan Yuyan's beautiful eyes flashed with reluctance.

But she still respectfully said, "I will arrange the promulgation immediately."

"Xin'er, you personally supervise and make sure everything is done thoroughly."

"Yes, Mother."

Guan Xin accepted the order and quickly left the study.

Guan Yuyan stayed by Jiang Lin's side and asked softly:

"Your Highness, are you leaving already? Perhaps you could have lunch before you depart?"

"A new spirit chef has arrived at the manor; her skills are quite good..."

"No need."

Jiang Lin waved his hand and looked at Gu Lanxing and the other two women.

"Pack your things, let's set off immediately."

"Yes, young master."

The three women responded, though they didn't really have much to pack.

A moment later, in the front courtyard of the city lord's mansion.

Guan Yuyan and her daughter escorted Jiang Lin to the gate of the mansion.

A large number of people who had come after hearing the news had already gathered in the square.

Upon seeing Jiang Lin emerge, they all bowed and paid their respects.

"Greetings, Your Highness!"

The sound waves surged like a tide, echoing across the square.

Jiang Lin nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.

"Everyone, disperse. Manage your business well and don't waste your youth."

A simple sentence, yet it warmed everyone's hearts.

His Highness is so approachable, even encouraging them.

"I will heed the teachings of the Son!"

Everyone responded in unison, their expressions excited.

Guan Yuyan stepped forward and whispered her instructions:

"Your Highness, the journey to the Immortal Pool Holy Land is long and arduous."

"I hope Your Highness will take good care of yourself and be cautious in everything you do."

Her eyes were filled with genuine affection, and the Devouring Spirit Slave Seal made her increasingly attached to Jiang Lin.

Guan Xin also respectfully said:

"Your Highness, rest assured, leave Little Spirit Pill City to me."

"Guan Xin will certainly not disappoint Your Highness regarding the three-year agreement."

"I will report on the progress monthly on time."

Jiang Lin nodded without saying anything more.

He raised his hand and waved it, and lightning gathered in his palm.

Purple lightning flashed and leaped, condensing into a spear over ten feet long.

The spear hovered in the air, crackling with lightning, its power restrained.

The gun was crackling with purple lightning and emitted a low hum.

"I'm gone."

Jiang Lin rose up, spear in hand, his robes fluttering in the wind.

Gu Lanxing and the other two women followed closely behind, landing lightly on the spear. The four figures stood on the lightning spear, surrounded by purple lightning.

"Respectfully seeing off His Highness the Holy Son!"

Guan Yuyan and her daughter bowed respectfully as they saw them off.

The guards and maids in front of the mansion also bowed, and the people in the square knelt down and shouted to send them off.

The Thunder Spear trembled slightly, emitting a clear and melodious sound.

It instantly transformed into a purple streak of light, soaring into the sky and disappearing into the clouds in the blink of an eye, leaving only a faint aura of thunder that slowly dissipated in the air.

Guan Yuyan gazed at the sky for a long time before finally looking away.

She sighed softly, and when she turned around, she had regained her dignified demeanor as the city lord.

"Summon all stewards to the front hall for a meeting."

"yes!"

The maid obeyed and left.

Guan Xin has already begun to take action, acting swiftly and decisively.

"Guards, make three hundred copies of the new strategy and post them throughout the city!"

"Notify the city defense troops to deploy to various districts to maintain order!"

"Summon all shopkeepers and representatives of the Alchemist Guild to a midday assembly at the plaza!"

Orders were issued in an orderly manner.

The machine in the City Lord's Mansion began to run at full speed.

Half an hour later.

Crowds gathered in front of bulletin boards throughout Little Spirit Pill City.

The soldiers posted the new notice and banged a gong, shouting:

"The City Lord's new decree is effective immediately!"

"All common people, merchants, and alchemists are welcome to watch!"

People rushed forward to carefully read the notice.

Soon, exclamations and murmurs rose and fell.

"Abolish all forced conscription laws? Really?"

"The establishment of a fair trading market is wonderful! We no longer have to live in fear!"

"Alchemist rating offers discounts? I want to get certified in the guild!"

"Opening up the pill formula storehouse? The City Lord's Mansion is really going all out this time!"

More and more people gathered in front of the bulletin board, their emotions running high.

Many alchemists were so excited that their faces turned red.

"Look! The monthly allowance for a fourth-tier alchemist is so high!"

"Plus, there's a permanent 10% discount on medicinal herbs!"

"This...this is so much better than before!"

"Has the City Lord's Mansion changed its ways?"

An old alchemist was moved to tears:

"I have lived in Little Spirit Pill City for forty years, and this day has finally come!"

"From now on, I can focus on refining pills without worrying about anything else."

The merchants were equally excited.

"Stall rents have dropped by 30%! For the third consecutive year!"

"The transaction tax has been reduced, and there's also an arbitration mechanism to protect us..."

"This is going to be a huge success! Let's hurry and grab a good spot!"

The people praised it highly and were full of expectations for the future.

"It should have been done a long time ago!"

"I heard this is a new policy that Miss Guan Xin brought back from the Holy Academy."

"Miss Guan Xin is indeed very talented; Little Spirit Pill City is about to undergo a major transformation!"

"This isn't just a change of regime; this is a rise to power!"

Some bold young men grabbed the soldiers who were posting the notices.

"Sir, why was this new strategy suddenly issued?"

"Could it be related to that Holy Son Jiang Lin?"

The soldier glared at him: "Don't ask questions you shouldn't!"

But the corners of his mouth couldn't help but turn up, clearly indicating that he was in a very good mood.

The older soldier beside him whispered:

"His Highness the Holy Son's personal visit and guidance on reforms are a great blessing for our Little Spirit Pill City!"

"Work hard from now on, and you'll reap the rewards!"

The news spread like wildfire throughout the city.

In teahouses and taverns, everyone was discussing the new strategy.

"Have you heard? His Highness the Holy Son has come!"

"Really? No wonder the city lord personally issued the new decree..."

"Absolutely true! My cousin works at the city lord's mansion and saw it with his own eyes!"

"His Highness also encouraged us to manage it well!"

"With His Highness the Holy Son as our backer, who in Little Spirit Pill City will dare to provoke us in the future?"

"That's right! We are now a city under the Holy Son's command!"

A sense of pride arose spontaneously in the hearts of the people.

The square in front of the city lord's mansion, at noon.

Hundreds of shop owners and alchemists gathered together.

Guan Xin, dressed in a striking pale yellow outfit, stood atop the high platform.

Her gaze swept over the crowd, her voice clear and bright:

"You have all seen the contents of the new strategy."

"I will only emphasize three points."

"First, effective immediately, all transactions must be fair and just."

"Secondly, the city lord's mansion will provide support, but will also strictly supervise it."

"Third, those who violate the rules will be severely punished."

Her tone was firm and authoritative, carrying an unquestionable air of authority.

The audience nodded in agreement, and no one dared to question it.

Didn't you see how menacing the guards from the city lord's mansion were all around?

Moreover, this new strategy is indeed beneficial to everyone.

"Miss Guan, rest assured, we will certainly comply!"

"Yes, this is great news, we fully support it!"

"Little Spirit Pill City is getting better and better, and we benefit from it too!"

Seeing everyone's response, Guan Xin nodded in satisfaction.

"In that case, let's disperse. We'll officially begin tomorrow."

"Specific details will be explained to each store by a specialist."

The shopkeepers and representatives bowed and dispersed, each with a happy expression on their face.

Guan Xin stood on the high platform, overlooking the entire city.

Sunlight shone on her, highlighting her tall and straight figure.

She knew this was just the beginning.

In three years, she will revitalize this city.

She needs to show His Highness her worth.

She wanted everyone to know her name, Guan Xin.

Meanwhile, thousands of miles above the sky.

The lightning spear pierced through the clouds and mist at an extremely high speed.

Jiang Lin stood with his hands behind his back on the tip of the spear, the mountains and rivers rushing past beneath his feet, shrouded in mist.

Gu Lanxing and the other two women stood behind them, all cultivating.

They have become accustomed to not wasting time when they are on the road.

Qin Yue suddenly opened her eyes and looked at Jiang Lin.

"Young Master, are you just leaving the affairs of Little Spirit Pill City to them like this?"

Jiang Lin didn't turn around; his voice carried on the wind:

"Guan Xin is ambitious and capable."

"Guan Yuyan knows how to advance and retreat, and knows her limits."

"By planting the mark of slavery, they will be unable to cause any trouble."

"Besides..."

He paused, then continued:

"I already have a plan for the selection of the Holy Son's Inspector."

Liu Ningxiang asked curiously, "Whom does Young Master intend to send?"

Jiang Lin smiled slightly: "You'll see in time."

Gu Lanxing said softly, "Young Master has considered everything carefully."

She asked no more questions and continued to meditate with her eyes closed.

Jiang Lin gazed at the sea of ​​clouds ahead, pondering to himself that the matter of Little Spirit Pill City was settled, and the gains were considerable.

Not only did he subdue Guan Yuyan and her daughter, gaining a large city, but he also allowed the Purple Flame Thunder Lotus Fire to devour many flames, thus making some progress.

More importantly, it has driven a wedge into the northern part of the Eastern Xuan Domain.

In the future, acquiring resources from the Misty Holy Land will be smoother.

"Young Master, the northern border of the Eastern Xuan Region is just ahead," Qin Yue whispered, pointing into the distance.

As you look out at the horizon, the mountains and rivers change shape, and the flow of spiritual energy also changes slightly, becoming more intense and magnificent.

We're almost there in the eastern part of the Eastern Xuan Region, where the Immortal Pool Holy Land is located.

Jiang Lin nodded, a look of anticipation flashing in his eyes.

The Fairy Pool Forest was indeed a great opportunity.

The opportunity presented by this should not disappoint him.

"Full speed ahead."

With a thought, he increased the speed of the lightning spear.

A purple bolt of lightning streaked across the sky and disappeared into the horizon.

Little Spirit Pill City is about to usher in a new era.

Jiang Lin's journey continues.