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

Chapter 206 News of the Spirit Wood, Amazing Connections

While flying, Lin Changheng's heart was far from as calm as it appeared.

This is where the power of connections comes into play; otherwise, how could one person achieve two goals at once?
The same task, done twice!

During their last meeting, Lin Changheng's performance caught the attention of "Elder Kong," an important figure in the Immortal City, who developed a favorable impression of him and even presented him with a token. This time, he subtly and gradually appointed him as his successor.

As a result, Bai Zhenchuan also benefited.

Last time, I obtained a [Second-Tier Mid-Grade Pill Furnace], a [Second-Tier High-Grade Pill Dao Inheritance], ten portions of the essence blood of the [Azure Mist Toad] with the Xuanling bloodline, and some [Azure Wave Floating Bud] spiritual tea.

This time was not bad either!
The [Azure Mist Toad] provides ample essence and blood, and each [Flying Sword Talisman] can be used once.

The former can continue to advance the acquisition and transformation of the precious seed, thereby increasing its holdings.

The latter can save one's life, kill the enemy, and further enhance one or two offensive methods.

It could even rank among the top of all of Lin Changheng's offensive methods, and even be the most powerful in a single attack.

It's impossible to describe how much money they made.

I just hope that the internal organ needs of the [Azure Mist Toad] in the Immortal City can continue.

Otherwise, if the demand stops and people are no longer sent out to hunt such monsters, wouldn't he lose his source of supply?
You should know that the Azure Mist Toad lives in the deep, wild rivers and marshes, which is too dangerous for him to go to.

……

Return to the cave.

Lin Changheng immediately took out the [Flying Sword Talisman] and began to examine it carefully.

Can't put it down.

He also recalled the basic information that Master Bai had just told him.

Firstly, this [talisman treasure] was formed by extracting one-tenth of the power from a magic weapon called the [Azure Cleansing Sword] and sealing it onto the talisman paper.

This type of talisman paper is quite special, with extremely high load-bearing capacity, unlike the talisman paper commonly used for drawing first- or second-tier talismans.

If the latter were to bear the load, the power would not even be able to land before it bursts into flames.

Secondly, Bai Zhenchuan also told him how to activate the [Talisman Treasure]: simply infuse magic power into the talisman to activate it.

Manipulate shapeshifting to fight enemies.

The reason for this reminder was that Lin Changheng had never handled talismans before, and if he became curious and accidentally used up his last chance by channeling his magic power... that would be too much of a loss and a waste.

This woman was incredibly meticulous, and her words prevented the ever-curious Lin Changheng from getting into trouble by playing around with her.

Immediately, Lin Changheng had a sudden thought and couldn't help but use the [Spirit Condensation Technique] to envelop the [Azure Cleansing Sword Talisman Treasure].

Fu Bao didn't react at all, lying quietly in the same spot, completely still.

"Although the [Talisman Treasure] is quite precious and special, it has no growth potential. It is a fixed amount of magic treasure power that is used up and then used up. Naturally, it cannot be activated or nurtured by the [Spirit Condensation Technique]."

In the end, this ingenious idea had to be abandoned.

……

Three more days passed.

Lin Changheng directly piloted the magic boat and flew to a secluded courtyard in the inner city of the immortal city.

Chu Guangsheng, a mid-grade second-tier talisman master, lives here.

It wasn't the [Cloud Pavilion] where I used to live, but it was a similar residential area.

According to him, although the environment outside the lake is nice, he is too old and lazy to go out, so he prefers to live in the inner city where it is more comfortable and convenient to buy things.

"Tuk Tuk Tuk!"

Lin Changheng stood in front of the door and raised his hand to knock on the door.

"I'm coming!"

An elderly man in hemp clothing came to open the door.

With a ruddy complexion, vigorous spirit, and brisk steps, he possessed the cultivation of an early Foundation Establishment cultivator, showing no signs of old age or frailty.

"Oh! Fellow Daoist Lin, what brings you here? Please come in quickly."

Upon seeing Lin Changheng smiling at the door, the old man in hemp clothing was quite pleasantly surprised and led Lin Changheng in.

"I apologize for disturbing you by coming here without prior notice, Brother Chu. I hope this will not cause any inconvenience."

Lin Changheng smiled.

"How could that be! Fellow Daoist Lin, please don't say that. I often stay at home and don't like to go out. I can't even say two words in three days. I would be more than happy if Fellow Daoist Lin could come and chat with me."

As Chu Guangsheng spoke, he brought out second-tier spirit wine to serve the guests.

"I've come here today because I need Brother Chu's help with two things."

Lin Changheng got straight to the point, cupping his hands in greeting as he began to discuss the important matter.

"Two pieces?"

Upon hearing this, Chu Guangsheng was not surprised but delighted. He waved his hand and said generously, "Fellow Daoist Lin, please speak freely. I will not refuse to help if I can."

Lin Changheng had also anticipated Chu Guangsheng's performance.

The other party was in a state where he was not afraid of Lin Changheng asking him for favors, but he was afraid of Lin Changheng not asking him for anything.

Isn't the essence of human relationships about coming and going, helping each other, and being involved with one another?

That's what makes a relationship strong.

After all, Chu Guangsheng still planned to obtain a Foundation Establishment Pill from Lin Changheng.

"First, I need Brother Chu to help me find out some information about [Eastern Wheel Willow Wood], a second-grade high-quality spiritual wood. Where can I buy it? Or does any fellow cultivator have it and intend to sell it?"

Lin Changheng raised a glass of spirit wine to toast the other party and then told him what he needed with a smile.

"【Eastern Willow Wood】?" Chu Guangsheng exclaimed in surprise.

“Indeed, this spirit wood can be used to make high-grade talismans. Brother Chu may know this, which is why I came to inquire.”

Lin Changheng nodded, pointing out the key point and the reason for his inquiry.

"Hehe, it would probably take a lot of effort and trouble to get information about this from someone else, but you've come to the right person by asking me."

To everyone's surprise, Chu Guangsheng stroked his beard and chuckled, saying something that even Lin Changheng found unbelievable.

Do you really know?

He originally planned to cast a wider net, but since this wasn't feasible, he went to visit and ask several other second-tier talisman masters.

"Please inform me, Brother Chu!"

Lin Changheng picked up the wine pot and refilled the empty cup that Chu Guangsheng had just finished drinking.

"Fellow Daoist Lin, have you ever heard of the Azure Cloud Sect?"

Chu Guangsheng did not answer directly. Instead, he held his wine glass, looked at the full glass, and asked with a smile.

"Of course I know that in the east of the Immortal City, it is one of the top sects and sects, along with the Purple Extreme Sect and the Azure Cloud Temple. Each of them governs a territory and serves as the guardian of all cultivators under heaven for the Southern Palace."

Lin Changheng's mind raced. Could it be related to the [Bixiao Sect]?
They immediately coordinated with the tunnel.

“That’s right, but does Fellow Daoist Lin know that the ‘Bi’ in ‘Bixiao Sect’ refers to the lush and verdant spiritual trees that block out the sun, like the azure sky?”

Chu Guangsheng raised an eyebrow and spoke, mentioning Lin Changheng's blind spot in knowledge.

"So, the [Eastern Wheel Willow Wood] that I want is related to the [Azure Sky Sect]? Or does this sect cultivate this spiritual wood?"

Upon hearing the whereabouts, Lin Changheng immediately pressed for details.

“That’s right. I happen to be acquainted with a steward in the [Bixiao Sect], and we have a close relationship. I can try to purchase a small amount from him.”

"A large quantity might be difficult to handle, but a small quantity will most likely be more accommodating."

Chu Guangsheng spoke slowly, also demonstrating his connections.

Lin Changheng was delighted. "Then I will trouble Brother Chu to ask him for me. I will remember this kindness."

This news is quite a pleasant surprise.

Lin Changheng immediately made a promise.

"Of course, I'll send a letter later to inquire about this matter."

Chu Guangsheng smiled with satisfaction. Dealing with intelligent people was always pleasant. Then he asked, "Fellow Daoist Lin, may I ask what the second matter is?"

"I wonder if Brother Chu knows how to refine precious talismans?" Lin Changheng, having achieved a great success, was in high spirits and continued to speak.

"A precious talisman?" Chu Guangsheng paused, stroking his beard, to confirm.

“That’s right, it’s a [treasure talisman] that can be nurtured to enhance its power.” Lin Changheng nodded.

"I've heard of the name 'Precious Talisman.' Like the 'Talisman Plate,' it's a branch of the talismanic arts, with a high barrier to entry and even greater mystery, rarely seen in ordinary times. To be honest, I don't understand this art either. Perhaps Fellow Daoist Lin could inquire with a second-tier high-grade talisman master; you might gain some insights, but be prepared to return empty-handed!"

Chu Guangsheng did not hide anything. As a senior talisman master, he naturally knew more about the details than Chu Guangsheng, who was an outsider to the field of talismans, and gave practical advice.

"Thank you!" Lin Changheng was not discouraged and raised his glass in a toast.

"Fellow Daoist Lin, there's no need to be so polite."

Chu Guangsheng immediately laughed, then added after a moment's thought, "About ten years from now, that good-for-nothing junior in my family should be about to break through to the Foundation Establishment stage, which might cause some trouble..."

"Eh? I'll leave this matter to you!" Lin Changheng immediately waved his hand and added fuel to the fire with a smile. "Moreover, if Brother Chu can get his hands on one of the two controlled [Foundation Building Pill main ingredients], the chances of obtaining a [Premium Foundation Building Pill] are very high."

That's just Lin Changheng's personality. He can do his job to the fullest extent, but he can't say everything he wants; he always leaves room for maneuver.

But the implication is self-evident.

Chu Guangsheng was immediately taken aback. Seeing that Lin Changheng's smile was genuine and not fake, he was overjoyed and full of emotion, and said, "It seems that Fellow Daoist Lin has made great progress in alchemy. Congratulations! I can no longer accept the title 'Brother Chu'. From now on, just call me 'Fellow Daoist Chu'."

Although the two had only met a few times, Lin Changheng had become quite famous in the Immortal City over the past twenty years, and his style of doing things was widely known in the Immortal City. He would not have spoken like this unless he was extremely confident. Based on this, the above deduction was made.

Previously, Lin Changheng had asked for a favor, so he naturally had to lower his posture a bit. But since Master Chu had said so, Lin Changheng naturally followed suit and addressed him as "Fellow Daoist Chu".

This can be considered an admission of Master Chu's speculation.

After sitting for a while longer, Lin Changheng, having achieved his goal, did not linger and took his leave.

Chu Fushi did not delay and acted swiftly, going directly to his desk, picking up his pen to write a letter and sending it out.

The Azure Cloud Sect also has an office in the Floating Life Immortal City. It has internal channels, and those with official seals can send letters and items directly.

I believe a reply will arrive soon.

……

Lin Changheng did not go straight back, but changed his form halfway and came to a shop that buys second-hand items.

Although it's called secondhand goods, everyone knows that 90% of the people who come here are there to sell stolen goods!
The Immortal City was peaceful and tranquil. Except for a few cultivators who were driven to desperation and dared to commit violence in the city in a fit of rage, and were caught and killed by the law enforcement team, the city was generally safe.

But outside the Immortal City, things are completely different.

Various battles are not uncommon. Even an upright and law-abiding ordinary cultivator can't help but step in and act as a robber when he encounters a weak and fat sheep. After killing and robbing the treasure, he transforms himself back into a righteous and awe-inspiring figure.

Especially in the wild wilderness, the monstrous beasts that prey on humans and the environment fraught with hidden dangers are certainly terrifying, but what is even more terrifying are human cultivators.

They might be laughing and joking one second, and then betray you the next.

Moreover, the remains don't need to be disposed of; the demonic beasts will take care of it.

It's the perfect place for murder and robbery.

Against this backdrop, countless stolen goods flow into Xiancheng every year for acquisition, processing, and sale, forming a unique industrial chain that has become quite safe.

Lin Changheng came here this time to deal with the loot from the killing of "Senior Brother Feng" of the Ziji Sect.

If you do the math, eleven years have already passed.

Even friends, relatives, and fellow disciples who had doubts about the cause of his death could not stay by his side every day just to get an answer.

The death of a person is the process of their influence gradually dissipating, and it is fundamentally irreversible.

Once everyone's memories of him have vanished, he is truly "dead."

Clearly, now is a good time to sell the stolen goods.

"Shopkeeper, do you accept second-tier artifacts?"

Lin Changheng, disguised as a burly, dark-faced man wearing a bamboo hat, knocked on the door and asked directly.

Upon hearing this, the shopkeeper immediately stopped what he was doing and said, "Take it! Take it! Of course I'll take it!" as he walked behind the counter.

His eyes revealed joy; clearly, second-tier artifacts were more valuable and would yield greater profits when resold.

"What's the typical price for a low-grade, second-tier offensive magical weapon with only minor signs of use?"

Lin Changheng did not immediately take out the item to show it, but asked a question first.

Since it involves selling stolen goods, the more you expose them, the greater the risk. You'll only show them to others and discuss the details if the price is reasonable.

We will buy it at 60% of the regular selling price.

After a moment's thought, the shopkeeper chuckled and offered a buyback price.

That is, 3,600 low-grade spirit stones.

"This is too low..." Lin Changheng, the burly man with the black face, immediately expressed his dissatisfaction.

"If the price is a little higher, I'll sell; otherwise, I'd rather keep them for myself than bother with these spirit stones!"

"This..." This statement made the shopkeeper hesitate.

Seeing this, Lin Changheng turned and left without saying a word.

"Fellow Daoist, wait! Fellow Daoist, wait! The price is negotiable! The price is negotiable!"

The shopkeeper gritted his teeth and called out to Lin Changheng repeatedly. After all, making more or less money was better than not making any money at all, and besides, it was impossible to make less money with a second-grade low-level attack spirit weapon!
It's the difference between earning a lot and earning a lot.

"Then let me see the shopkeeper's sincerity in doing business!"

Lin Changheng stopped and said with a forced smile.

"Four thousand spirit stones! How about four thousand spirit stones? That's the most I can offer, and you can't exaggerate the quality of the spirit weapon you mentioned!"

The shopkeeper quoted a price.

Upon hearing this, Lin Changheng realized that the discount was roughly 60-70%, and knew that even if he visited a few more stores, he wouldn't be able to get much more.

He nodded in agreement, and at the same time, he took out the magical longsword and threw it onto the counter.

With a loud clang, the shopkeeper was startled.

However, he quickly examined it carefully, while holding up a bronze mirror-like appraisal tool in his hand for assistance. After a short while, he looked up and smiled, "Fellow Daoist is indeed a sincere person. The item is exactly as you said."

He praised it and immediately handed over forty mid-grade spirit stones, but no low-grade spirit stones.

"The shopkeeper is quite a remarkable person."

Seeing this, Lin Changheng smiled and replied.

Because forty mid-grade spirit stones, compared to four thousand low-grade spirit stones, still have a premium of one or two hundred low-grade spirit stones.

He's a shrewd businessman!

This kind of rebate beyond the agreed price is very pleasant.

In addition, Lin Changheng changed his words again and went to another similar shop to sell another top-quality defensive magic weapon that he had obtained from "Senior Brother Feng".

I got 550 low-grade spirit stones, but at a 61% discount, which was a slight improvement, but not as much as the bargaining power that came with a second-tier spirit weapon.

Now, just considering the amount of spirit stones alone, after deducting expenses, Lin Changheng has more than 50,000!
This is "cash," and does not include the value of various resources, talismans, artifacts, etc.

……

The next month.

Aside from his daily cultivation and alchemy, Lin Changheng only did two other things.

Firstly, they studied the recipe for the [Spirit Communication Pill] given by the Immortal City, deducing alternative medicinal materials to ensure the overall medicinal properties were compatible and to eliminate any violent conflicts that could cause the furnace to explode.

Lin Changheng was quite enthusiastic about this.

Not only was the acquisition of the essence blood of the Azure Mist Toad a driving force, but Lin Changheng also suddenly realized that if he succeeded, wouldn't this accurate pill formula also fall into his hands?

It's just that the specific refining method is lacking.

There may be a chance to obtain the remaining portion in the future, or to imitate and deduce the alchemy formula of the Foundation Establishment Pill and the alchemy method for spirit beasts, which has a certain possibility of success.

If it really works out, although it won't sell well in Floating Life Immortal City, it can still make a fortune in another place.

At that time, with the Foundation Building Pill and Spirit Connection Pill as his foundation, his own financial resources, along with his "wealth, companions, methods, and land" as his foundation, will also increase significantly, boosting his strength!
……

Secondly, Lin Changheng used his connections to ask people to introduce him to a second-tier high-grade talisman master in the Immortal City.

Unexpectedly, after asking around, the question still landed on his neighbor, "Lü Tong".

It is him again!
The first time I took him to Master Guo to request utensils, the second time I brought a winemaker surnamed Yue to visit him...

Lin Changheng couldn't help but gasp. It seemed that this Fellow Daoist Lü Tong was indeed a "social butterfly" in the Immortal City, with an even wider network of connections than he had.

Moreover, without possessing any skills that others have high demand for, he has managed to make so many friends... It has to be said that he has some personal charm and social skills.

Lin Changheng could no longer refuse, and directly stated that if the next crowdfunding campaign for alchemy was still short of a [Heavenly Crystal Lotus Root], he would be notified.

Lu Tong was overjoyed, his round face beaming with delight.

In the Immortal City, all cultivators know that Master Lin never makes promises lightly, and once he makes a promise, he always keeps his word and has never broken his word.

Moreover, Lin Dan's promises are made with utmost care and are extremely rare, to the point that they have become synonymous with and a symbol of "keeping one's word."
They believed that obtaining Lin Dan's promise was equivalent to getting the job done and getting the goods!

It may seem outrageous, but it's all thanks to Lin Changheng's hard work, dedication, and reputation built up over the past twenty years.

If it is so difficult to build, it will only collapse faster once it is built.

That's why Lü Tong was so delighted.

(End of this chapter)