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

Chapter 139 Foundation Building Experience, A New Treasure Seed (Two chapters combined)

"Squeak."

As the door opened, a beautiful female cultivator with a gentle smile and graceful demeanor appeared before them.

She changed into a blue robe, losing some of the immortal aura of a Foundation Establishment cultivator, but gaining a touch of delicate beauty.

Who else could it be but Mo Zhaoli?
"Li'er? Please come in quickly."

Lin Changheng smiled and stepped aside to let the female cultivator enter.

In the cultivation world, there are no shackles of formalities or strict separation between men and women like in the secular world, so there is nothing wrong with meeting at night.

"Brother Lin, are you settling in alright?"

Mo Zhaoli moved gracefully and sat down at the table with a smile.

"Of course." Lin Changheng nodded with a smile, then brought up the matter of the essence blood, saying that he had just checked it and found it to be extremely valuable. Li'er had just advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage and also needed resources.

Upon hearing this, Mo Zhaoli shook her head slightly, looking at Lin Changheng to indicate that she hadn't thought that much about it, but simply felt that Brother Lin might need it, so she acquired it.

Given their friendship, how could they possibly be so petty?
Even so, Lin Changheng pondered for a moment and then directly stated that the spirit stones he had previously "borrowed" were actually a gift from him, and should be used as a supplementary Foundation Establishment congratulatory gift.

Mo Zhaoli was about to speak again, but Lin Changheng interrupted him directly, saying, "Given our friendship, how can we be so petty?"

So she had no choice but to accept it.

Lin Changheng smiled knowingly, ended the conversation, and then asked Zhao Li about her purpose.

"I just heard Grandpa say that Brother Lin has left the Xu family and wants to seek an opportunity to establish his foundation."

Mo Zhaoli then remembered his purpose for coming and asked with a slight flicker in his eyes.

“That’s right. Although life in the Xu family is comfortable, there’s no hope of reaching the Foundation Establishment stage. Since my Dao heart hasn’t died, I’d like to go out and try my luck.”

Lin Changheng told the truth.

"Unfortunately, resources within the sect are scarce and strictly controlled, preventing their outflow, otherwise..."

Mo Zhaoli shook her head. Given the current situation, even she found it extremely difficult to obtain Foundation Establishment Pills, let alone Brother Lin, who is now a true rogue cultivator. "Now, Brother Lin can only try his luck in the rogue cultivator channels in the immortal city where rogue cultivators gather."

"Right on my mind."

Lin Changheng nodded. He had never intended to obtain Foundation Establishment Pills from the Ziji Sect. If he prioritized external matters over internal ones, how could the sect maintain its cohesion?
But Heaven leaves a way out.

Sects have established channels for producing Foundation Establishment Pills, ensuring a continuous supply of medicinal materials. However, in the endless wilderness, they can occasionally find scattered wild plants, places that even the most powerful sects cannot reach.

This allows independent cultivators to retain the hope of reaching the Foundation Establishment stage, hence the term "independent cultivator channel".

Furthermore, the development of the cultivation world is not static; it is also progressing. The formula for Foundation Establishment Pills has been adjusted compared to those from ten thousand years ago, or even a thousand years ago.

The reason for this is that the main ingredient has disappeared.

But how can a living person die from holding their urine? So some sects organized alchemists to study alternative medicinal materials.

Over time, new foundation-building pill formulas gradually emerged.

At the same time, new alternative medicinal materials have also been researched.

If the materials are not all gathered, they will turn to these alternative medicinal herbs. The resulting pills will still be effective for Foundation Establishment, but the chances of them being effective will be reduced.

But something is better than nothing, isn't it?
Soon, new problems arose. Major powers such as sects would naturally include these medicinal herbs in their strategic resources and control and occupy the core production areas.

With limited resources, life remains difficult for independent cultivators.

As the saying goes, "When things are prosperous, those who practice alone suffer; when things are in decline, those who practice alone also suffer."

……

Mo Zhaoli continued chatting with Lin Changheng for a while, and when they talked about Lin Changheng's seventh level of Qi Refining cultivation, she earnestly advised him: "Brother Lin should cultivate steadily and hone his skills carefully. Don't take strong medicine in order to break through quickly."

She could tell at a glance that Lin Changheng's cultivation level was at the seventh level of Qi Refining. She thought it was too early to start Foundation Establishment. She was also worried that Lin Changheng was already quite old and was eager to break through to Foundation Establishment before the age of sixty, so he might take some strong medicine that would harm his body and damage his potential.

After all, Lin Changheng is a top-grade alchemist, so it would not be difficult for him to come into contact with such pills.

Even if one's cultivation reaches the ninth level of Qi Refining, forcibly attempting to break through to Foundation Establishment will not only have no chance of success, but may also result in serious injury or even death.

Thinking of this, he came to visit at night, and before leaving, he came specifically to persuade me.

Lin Changheng seemed to understand something, and immediately made a connection to the purpose of the visit. He smiled warmly and gratefully, "Li'er, don't worry, I know what I'm doing."

"Ok?"

Lin Changheng's subtle expressions stirred Mo Zhaoli's thoughts. Combined with her previous understanding of Lin Changheng's personality, she couldn't help but ask, "Could it be that Brother Lin is concealing his cultivation level?"

Lin Changheng didn't hide anything from her: "Just a little bit."

Immediately, the Foundation Establishment female cultivator bit her red lips and focused her gaze on Lin Changheng. After a moment, she shook her head and said, "It's really strange. Even without using her divine sense, Li'er can't see through it or see it clearly."

"It's just that he has some talent for the 'Concealing Qi Technique' and has cultivated it to perfection, which is why he can block Li'er's gaze to some extent, right?"

Lin Changheng's story is a mixture of truth and falsehood, a perfect blend of both.

In fact, he also used the illusion technique of [Illusory Appearance and Displacement Technique - Transformation] and applied it to the [Gathering Qi Technique] to achieve this effect.

It should be known that the [Illusory Appearance Shifting Technique] can transform one's appearance in a way that is enough to obscure the keen observation of a Foundation Establishment stage cultivator. Even if its use has some effect, it is still beyond the reach of Mo Zhaoli's eyes.

"Brother Lin, could you please tell me your true cultivation level, Li'er?"

Mo Zhaoli suddenly asked the question without using his divine sense to investigate, which was extremely impolite.

Lin Changheng was taken aback, somewhat surprised.

Based on his previous understanding of Mo Zhaoli and his impressions from their letters and meetings in recent years, this woman was quite conscious of boundaries and did not like to pry into her privacy. But she was acting like this now, which was very different from her usual behavior. Could she have other plans?

Lin Changheng's mind raced, and he made a quick decision.

"If Brother Lin has any reservations..."

Mo Zhaoli, ever perceptive, immediately tried to smooth things over and smiled. But before she could finish speaking, Lin Changheng's voice rang out: "Just barely at the ninth level of Qi Refining."

"What? The ninth level of Qi Refining?"

Upon hearing this, Mo Zhaoli's almond-shaped eyes widened slightly, her red lips parted, revealing a deep look of surprise.

This answer was clearly unexpected.

The vermilion mark between her brows trembled slightly before returning to normal, though a thoughtful look flickered in her eyes. Her slender hand unconsciously reached for the storage pouch at her waist, her fingertips gently stroking it twice, as if weighing something.

"Not bad. He has been diligently cultivating and has also made progress in alchemy, thus achieving a breakthrough by chance." Lin Changheng could not reveal his own secrets, so he had to attribute it to others.

“Brother Lin is quite…” she suddenly smiled, her eyes curving into a gentle arc, “…truly a man of few words.”

But she was genuinely happy for Lin Changheng.

Given their relationship and history, the higher Lin Changheng's cultivation level and the stronger his skills, the more advantageous it would be for her.

This is also beneficial to the continuation of their relationship.

If Lin Changheng can't keep up with her pace, even if she doesn't want to distance herself, it's inevitable that they will drift further and further apart.

If she were to force a reversal, it would only be considered a one-sided "support" rather than a partnership or progress together.

That's the cruelty of the cultivation world.

……

Suddenly, Mo Zhaoli flipped his hand and took out a light blue jade slip, handing it to Lin Changheng.

"Li'er, what is this?"

Lin Changheng reached out and took it, not knowing its meaning.

"Brother Lin, you'll know once you take a look."

Mo Zhaoli covered her lips and chuckled softly. The charm in her eyes made Lin Changheng pause for a moment, but he quickly recovered and placed the jade slip on his forehead as instructed. Three breaths later.

Lin Changheng put down the jade slip, his face filled with disbelief and shock:
"Li'er, is this for me?"

"Otherwise what? Could this letter be in someone else's possession?"

Mo Zhaoli feigned surprise.

Lin Changheng's face lit up with joy, and he didn't force himself to maintain a poker face, because this was indeed something to be happy about.

This pale blue jade slip contains nothing but [Foundation Building Insights].

It records the insights, experiences, problems, and some details and solutions during the foundation building process.

Lin Changheng immediately noticed the section on the use of the Foundation Establishment Pill, especially the timing of its consumption.

And there are examples...

This was none other than Mo Zhaoli's Foundation Establishment process!

Seeing the joy and shock on Lin Changheng's face, Mo Zhaoli said softly, "This is Li'er's understanding of Foundation Establishment. I specially recorded it down. Brother Lin should be able to use it when he establishes his foundation in the future."

Lin Changheng definitely needs this item. Not only him, but all Qi Refining cultivators in the world need it. It is equivalent to a detailed Foundation Establishment guide, which can prevent them from being completely clueless and alleviate their fear and confusion about the unknown Foundation Establishment. In a sense, it can even increase the success rate of Foundation Establishment!
After all, this is a process that most people will likely only experience once in their lifetime, and you can't accumulate experience on your own.

While Foundation Establishment Pills can guarantee against serious injury in the event of a failed breakthrough, practical factors must be considered, such as where to obtain a second Foundation Establishment Pill and the corresponding resources.

Even families and sects are unlikely to give a second chance to someone who has failed to establish their foundation.

Unless someone is determined to support the foundation building at all costs, it would be an exception, but such cases are extremely rare.

Even Mo Zhaoli hadn't expected that Brother Lin, overjoyed, would grab his hand, hold it tightly, and sincerely thank him.

However, given her reaction as a Foundation Establishment cultivator, she could have easily dodged it, or easily used her magic to push away the large hand that was grabbing her.

But she hesitated for a moment before Lin Changheng excitedly grabbed her hands.

This feeling is even somewhat familiar, as if it has happened quite often, but when it comes to the timing...

It was about thirty years ago.

They were still in Zichuanfang back then...

"Sorry, it concerns Foundation Establishment, I got a little excited."

Lin Changheng quickly withdrew his large hand, waved it in front of him, and chuckled somewhat embarrassedly.

Mo Zhaoli looked at Lin Changheng with gentle eyes, as if lost in memories, and gently shook her head.

"Brother Lin, you may not know this, but such [Foundation Building Comprehension] is not uncommon in the Ziji Sect. Every sect has its own inheritance to help future generations build their foundation. However, it is strictly forbidden to pass it on to outsiders, and one must make a strict oath."

"I have also learned from the experience of those who came before me."

This is one of the reasons why major sects and aristocratic families have been able to pass down their traditions for thousands of years. The accumulation of scarce knowledge is extremely important, so that disciples and clansmen don't have to feel their way across the river again.

Reduce trial and error.

"And what about you, Li'er?"

Lin Changheng was slightly surprised and looked at Mo Zhaoli while holding the jade slip.

"Brother Lin, don't worry."

Mo Zhaoli smiled slightly, indicating that he was not in a bad mood, "These are all my personal insights and summaries on Foundation Establishment, and they will not violate the Dao Oath."

Lin Changheng nodded in relief, then heard Mo Zhaoli say, "The reason Li'er asked about Brother Lin's true cultivation level is precisely this. You must know that a common man is innocent, but possessing a treasure is a crime. If Brother Lin is only at the seventh level of Qi Refining, holding this scroll would not only be useless, but could easily bring trouble upon himself. Moreover, there are many extraordinary techniques in the cultivation world; even if you keep your mouth shut, it might still leak information..."

“It is something I, Li’er, do not wish to see Brother Ruolin put in danger because of this.”

Lin Changheng nodded: "I understand, thank you for the letter, Li'er."

Then he stood up and respectfully bowed with his hands clasped in greeting.

Those who obstruct the path are irreconcilable enemies; those who help the path deserve to be repaid with boundless gratitude.

Mo Zhaoli dodged the attack with a swift movement.

At the same moment, the door opened by itself, and the beautiful figure had already disappeared, leaving only a soft voice drifting into one's ears:
"Brother Lin, there's no need for further thanks. If I ever need anything in the future, please don't refuse me."

"As it should be!"

Lin Changheng's eyes were resolute, and his voice was firm and resolute.

……

After Mo Zhao left, Lin Changheng carefully examined the jade slip several times until he had memorized all its contents. Then, a flame rose in his palm and burned the jade slip clean.

This jade slip contains a lot of information about Mo Zhaoli, and it is not suitable to be circulated. After writing it down, it should be destroyed.

However, he no longer had no concept of Foundation Establishment; rather, he had quite a bit of experience with it.

Others' experiences are still experiences; as long as you can make them your own, that's fine!
"Those who have come to the Purple Extreme Sect this time have truly benefited many!"

Lin Changheng couldn't help but sigh, this was also a major achievement in maintaining this relationship and exchanging sincerity for sincerity!

Who says the world of cultivation is all about fighting and killing? It's also about human relationships and social interactions!
That's the benefit of having connections!

This is something you can't get by killing and robbing.

……

After finishing this matter, Lin Changheng temporarily put his joy aside and took out the wooden box that Mo Zhaoli had given him as a return gift.

He still has unfinished business to complete.

There were still eight bottles of the essence blood of the Crimson-Eyed Fire Demon in the box, not enough to complete the soul-stealing of the Flame-Tailed Spirit Fox's True Core. Instead of absorbing it directly, they chose to store it separately.

Seal the talisman to ensure that the essence and spirituality are not lost.

However, the remaining essence blood of the Mountain-Moving Ape was sufficient.

"Continue to steal souls!"

All the essence and blood converged in one place, and a strong, pungent smell of blood filled the air. Lin Changheng reached in expressionlessly.

Swish!
In an instant, all his essence and blood were drained.

A precious seed unfolds and takes shape within the cauldron; touching it releases information:

【Mountain-Moving Ape Treasure Seed - Level One】

[Spirit Stealing: 13/100]

[Effects: Possesses turbid and evil bloodline, naturally endowed with earth element, and possesses innate talents of "Great Strength", "Rock Armor", and "Molten Mountain". Upon successful acquisition of spiritual energy, one can choose to refine one of them.]

After a moment's thought, Lin Changheng chose the [Great Strength] talent.

The main reason is that he has been cultivating the "Evergreen Body" body-refining method, and if he were to choose the "Mountain Melting" method, which is suspected to be an earth-based body-refining method, it would likely cause a conflict.

An overly complex diet can sometimes be harmful to the body.

Since the physical body involves the fundamental nature of things, being cautious is always a good idea.

Even if the two methods don't conflict, he can't possibly cultivate two body-refining methods at the same time. Leaving one idle would be an unacceptable waste for Lin Changheng.

Instead, consider switching to the [Great Strength] talent and adding it to your late-stage first-tier body refinement cultivation. You might actually be able to crush a monster outright.

"Um... With such a physique, has my cultivation of immortality gone a bit astray?"

At one point, Lin Changheng couldn't help but ask himself a profound question.

(End of this chapter)