94-100

Chapter 94

Thirty years on the east side of the river, thirty years on the west side. Don't underestimate the poor youth.

Thirty years passed in the blink of an eye. During these thirty years, Lin Jiang never left his cave. He was always immersed in closed-door cultivation. Finally, his cultivation reached the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm.

"It's not easy. I'm 204 years old now, and I finally reached the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm. It's a pity that there doesn't seem to be any enemies in the Building Foundation period for me to seek revenge on."

Lin Jiang opened his eyes. This lousy aptitude is truly frustrating. From the early stage to the mid-stage of the Building Foundation realm, it took Lin Jiang about forty years, and he consumed much more resources than others.

"Brother, brother, eat, eat."

Lin Jiang just walked out of the door, when he heard a grumpy voice from Grandma, and then a big head bumped into him, almost knocking him down.

"How many times do I have to say it? Don't call me brother, call me Dad. I'm your Dad."

Lin Jiang pushed the big head aside and stood up, holding a bird feather, shouting at Big Shadiao.

It was Big Shadiao who was speaking. Lin Jiang had prepared ten Demon Cores for them. When Big Shadiao had eaten the ninth one, it had slept for three years and woke up at the third stage.

A fourth-stage monster can transform, and a third-stage monster can speak. At first, Big Shadiao called Lin Jiang "Mom," almost making him faint. After being scolded by Lin Jiang a few times, it started calling him "brother," but still refused to call him "Dad."

"Brother, brother..."

"Stop calling me brother. I gave you all the dried meat. Do you want an Inedia Pill or not?"

Lin Jiang gave up. Although Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao could speak, their intelligence levels were still low. No matter how he tried to teach them, they just couldn't learn. He didn't want to bother anymore.

He took out an Inedia Pill and threw it to Big Shadiao, while Small Shadiao was still walking around the yard, acting like it didn't recognize anyone. After breaking through the third stage, it suddenly became cold and distant, and he didn't know why.

"Little Shadiao, aren't you hungry?"

Lin Jiang asked, and Little Shadiao glanced at Lin Jiang and ignored him. Little Shadiao continued walking, not knowing what was going on in his little head.

Lin Jiang got very angry and rushed over to grab Little Shadiao's head. He gave him eighteen hard knocks on the head, making Little Shadiao wince in pain. Little Shadiao opened his beak, ready to peck at Lin Jiang. Just then, Big Shadiao appeared and pinned Little Shadiao to the ground for a while.

It's worth mentioning that Lin Jiang finally found out the gender of Big Shadiao and Little Shadiao. Big Shadiao is a sister, and Little Shadiao is a brother.

"It's only natural for older sister to hit younger brother. He deserves it!"

Lin Jiang watched as Little Shadiao was being beaten up by himself. He couldn't help but laugh. Big Shadiao had always been bullying Little Shadiao since they were young.

After they played for a while, Lin Jiang put them away. Lin Jiang needed to go out because the True Spirit Pill and Soul Nourishing Pill were all used up. He needed to buy more and get Big Shadiao and Little Shadiao a bigger Spirit Beast Bag. Now they were bigger than Lin Jiang, and the bag was too crowded.

Actually, they could use magic to become smaller, but they didn't listen. They didn't want to become smaller, so Lin Jiang just let them be.

At the barrier of the formation, Lin Jiang saw dozens of Sound Passing Talismans floating in the air. There were also dozens of exhausted Sound Passing Talismans on the ground. These years, Lin Jiang had always known that someone was sending him Sound Passing Talismans, but he never paid any attention to them.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😋)

He casually grabbed a few to look at, most of which were sent by Taoist Yusong from Eagle Ridge. The tone from the Sound Passing Talisman showed that Yusong was becoming more and more impatient.

"I hope I don't bother you, and you don't bother me either."

Lin Jiang threw away all the Sound Passing Talismans, not wanting to pay attention to these people. He always kept a distance from trouble. The water here was too deep. If it weren't for his attachment to those spiritual medicines, Lin Jiang would have already run away.

After leaving the cave, Lin Jiang flew directly to Yunzhong City to trade at the commerce hall. He had dealt with most of the shady things in his possession. Now, the things he had were the spiritual medicines produced in the cave and the spiritual talismans he drew in his spare time.

In these thirty years, Lin Jiang's skill in drawing talismans hadn't improved much. It was similar to before, just a bit more familiar with the runes, but there were no major breakthroughs.

"Taoist friend, this is your spirit stone."

One hour later, Lin Jiang left with thirty thousand spirit stones. Only five thousand were from selling talismans, the main profit came from the spiritual medicines. With this cave from Sun Man, Lin Jiang had already earned fifty to sixty thousand spirit stones. Finally, it wasn't a loss.

"I haven't tasted meat in thirty years. Ah, I haven't had a heart-to-heart talk with the little fairy in thirty years. It's so lonely."

Lin Jiang, holding the spirit stones, immediately had a surge of thoughts and desires. After thirty years of seclusion, even Big Shadiao looked handsome and charming. He couldn't bear it.

·······

"I have been harmed by alcohol and lust, and I am so weary. From this day on, I shall quit indulging in pleasure, no, I shall quit drinking."

After three ridiculous days at Baihua Tower, Lin Jiang deeply regrets his actions and makes up his mind to quit drinking. Strong liquor harms the body, after all.

Carrying a sense of shame, Lin Jiang leaves Yunzhong City and heads towards Yunzhong Mountain Range.

"Halt, stranger! This is the territory of Cangying Ridge."

As Lin Jiang is nearing home, a loud shout is heard, followed by the appearance of about ten cultivators. The leader is in the early stage of Building Foundation, while the rest are in the Qi Refining Period.

Lin Jiang's mood instantly turns sour, and he coldly asks, "Who are you people? How dare you stop me?"

"Who is this taoist friend, and why have they come here?"

The person glances at Lin Jiang and arrogantly asks.

"Call Yusong out, you're not qualified to know who I am."

Lin Jiang got very angry, but then he suddenly remembered that he hadn't been outside for thirty years. It was normal for Yusong's subordinates not to recognize him. It seemed that the intimidation from when he killed Zhou Yunyang had faded away. Not many people knew about it anymore.

"How dare you call our leader by name!"

"Our leader's name is not something you can call directly. Put down the storage bag and come over here to meet your death."

"The cave ten miles ahead belongs to me."

"What do you mean yours and mine? Put down the storage bag and you can leave. Our people will arrive soon, and you'll be doomed then."

Facing the continuous insults from the cultivators, Lin Jiang felt very frustrated. What was wrong with these little Kalami cats? Couldn't they see that he was at the mid-level of Building foundation? Who gave them the courage to speak like this? Was it Leung Jingru?

Since the other party was being impolite, Lin Jiang decided to return the favor. He summoned his flying sword and aimed directly at the independent cultivator at the early stage of Building foundation.

"How dare you attack! Form a formation, attack!"

"Plop"

The man had barely finished speaking, when his flying sword was cut off by Lin Jiang, and then the sword ruthlessly sliced through his neck.

"Martial Uncle"

"Martial Uncle"

A group of lower level cultivators were terrified, but Lin Jiang was merciless. One by one, he killed them all, controlling his flying sword to continue cutting down those Qi Refining Period cultivators.

"Run quickly"

"Help me!"

Several Qi Refining Period cultivators scattered in panic, but Lin Jiang killed two of them and captured another.

"Senior, spare me, spare me!"

The frightened man begged for mercy, but Lin Jiang ignored him and took away the group's bag. He carried the captive and quickly left.

Just as they arrived at the cave, several cultivators approached. Someone shouted, "Lin, release the person immediately, or else you'll regret it!"

"Tell them what just happened, but don't exaggerate. Tell the truth."

Lin Jiang gently tapped the captive with his flying sword. He didn't want to argue much, and the captive dared not refuse. He truthfully explained everything.

"Dear Taoist friend, even if we were wrong, it was just a clash with you. It's not a deadly offense. Your actions are just as ruthless as those of the evil cultivators."

"Is that so?"

Lin Jiang sneered. When did the rules of Yunzhong Mountain Range become so gentle? In the past, stopping others in the middle of the road was a very dangerous move, often seen as an aggressive attack. The words they spoke were extremely arrogant, even more provocative than provocation itself.

"Isn't it true? Killing someone over a few words, dear Taoist friend, you are too domineering."

"Senior brother, there's no need to waste time with him. Call someone over, break into this cave, and avenge our fellow disciple Chen by killing him."

"Go inform the chief of the village."

The leader of the Building Foundation Period shook his head, but didn't immediately take action. Apparently, he knew about Lin Jiang's presence but pretended not to, and wanted to escalate the situation.

Lin Jiang remained calm and composed, watching them hesitate. He was curious to see how Yusong would handle the situation and whether things would turn hostile. Lin Jiang intended to turn Yusong into a pile of bones.

After about two hours, independent cultivators from Cangying Ridge started arriving. By the time Yusong arrived, there were already over a hundred people from Cangying Ridge, including thirteen at the Building Foundation Period.

"Friend Lin, you have finally come out of seclusion."

"Friend Yusong, we have no conflicts of interest. Why did you send people to block my way home? Is it because Yunzhong City belongs to the Yu surname now?"

Lin Jiang immediately retaliated by throwing out a major accusation. If he dared to accept the challenge, the two major sects would make him pay dearly.

"Friend Lin, Yunzhong Mountain Range doesn't belong to anyone. Those people were merely following my orders to patrol the territory. If there's any misunderstanding, it should be clarified instead of resorting to violence. Your inclination towards killing is too strong."

"Are you saying that every time I come home, I have to be interrogated by you all?"

"The misunderstanding is resolved, so things won't be like this."

"So, what's your plan?"

"Taoist Friend Lin should give us an explanation for what happened in Cangying Ridge."

"Come on, tell us what you have to say."

"Taoist Friend Lin will leave Yunzhong Mountain Range and never come back. Let's drop this matter."

"Haha, when it all comes down to it, you're interested in my cave."

Lin Jiang laughed. There's nothing new under the sun. In this vast Yunzhong Mountain Range, someone is blocking his way home. It doesn't take much to figure out what's going on. Now the fox's tail is showing.

"Taoist Friend Lin, are three lives worth less than your cave?"

"When did a cultivator's life become so valuable?"

"How dare you be so arrogant with just a mid-stage Building foundation? Chief, give the order, destroy this cave and cut off his head."

"Chief, give the order."

Hearing Lin Jiang's words, a few late-stage Building foundation cultivators by Yusong's side became furious. Yusong looked outside the cave and saw that the tree poles from before had rotted away and were no longer there.

"Attack!"

After thinking for a moment, Yusong finally made up his mind. He waved his hand and ordered his subordinates to attack.

Chapter 95

Before Lin Jiang's cave in the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

Thirteen independent cultivators at the Building foundation stage each brought a group of Qi Refining Period cultivators. They spread out in thirteen different positions, hundreds of meters apart, and launched an attack on Lin Jiang's cave.

The outer formation of Lin Jiang's cave collapsed once again, unable to withstand even ten rounds. In the central area, which was about five or six hundred acres in size, the people from the Cangying Ridge flew into the air and launched their attacks one by one, like a rotating wheel.

Yusong knew what Lin Jiang's defensive formation was, but no matter how strong the formation was, it could be broken. It depends on who breaks it.

At this moment, there were over a hundred of them. Despite the continuous attacks, the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation was able to block their advances, but their spiritual energy was quickly depleting.

"Yusong, this is your own doing."

"Taoist Friend Lin, I have always been kind to you, but you killed my subordinates, leaving me no choice but to offend you."

Yusong said that in these thirty years, he didn't know how many Sound Passing Talismans he had sent to Lin Jiang, but Lin Jiang had never replied. His arrogance had greatly displeased Yusong.

You see, in these years, the five major forces in the Yunzhong Mountain Range have been expanding continuously, nearly driving away all the truly independent cultivators. Either they had to run away or join the forces. There was no reason to stay alone. Lin Jiang's independent attitude had already made him very dissatisfied.

Another reason Yusong had set his sights on Lin Jiang's cave was because he learned through inquiries that the previous owner of the cave, Sun Man, had planted high-level spiritual herbs inside. The older the herbs, the more valuable they became. Some of those herbs had been around for hundreds of years and were already a huge fortune.

And one year later, it would be the Yunzhong City's Centennial Celebration. Yusong had already received the news that there would likely be only two Five Elements Golden Fruit Pills available this time. Each major sect would contribute one pill, which would inevitably lead to fierce competition.

Based on previous prices, the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pills could be auctioned for over a million, including auction fees, auxiliary elixirs, and renting the T-shaped cave in the northern part of Yunzhong City. He would need to prepare nearly two million spirit stones.

Two million spirit stones is an astronomical number for anyone in the Building Foundation Period. Even if Yusong prepared for it for decades, it is still not enough. So, this year will be the craziest year for many Building Foundation experts in the Yunzhong Mountain Range.

"Tonight, my doorstep will definitely be very bright."

Lin Jiang shook his head. He also thought of the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration. The last Centennial Celebration was when he was 105 years old, which is next year. It will be a new year of Centennial Celebration, so Yusong's craziness can be explained.

"Go, One Sword Flying Immortal."

Lin Jiang decisively made a move towards Yusong, killing him. The others were just a group of people without unity.

"Hmph."

Yusong coldly snorted. A gem appeared above his head, and the gem emitted a golden light that enveloped him. Lin Jiang's flying sword collided with the golden light and was instantly bounced away.

"Is Taoist Friend Lin only capable of this?"

"Just testing the waters."

"Come again"

Lin Jiang's first move was just a test, and Yusong also didn't use his full strength. In the next move, Lin Jiang unleashed the Explosive Element Technique. With a sword in the air, a crack appeared on the bead above Yusong's head.

"superb quality spiritual weapon"

Yusong's expression changed. He realized that Lin Jiang's spirit weapon was extraordinary and had also unleashed a secret technique.

"Come on, Yusong"

Lin Jiang sneered and continued to attack. Yusong also summoned a flying sword to fight against Lin Jiang's sword. The two fought evenly, but Yusong's sword was clearly of lesser quality.

"Let's attack together"

Yusong called for help directly. Three late-stage Building Foundation cultivators came out to help Yusong block Lin Jiang's flying sword. Yusong took back his sword and looked at it, finding several notches on it, which made him extremely heartbroken. It had been his treasured sword for decades.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😁)

On Lin Jiang's side, things weren't going well either. If he didn't use the Explosive Element Technique, he wouldn't stand a chance against these people. Even late-stage Building Foundation cultivators could suppress him. But the Explosive Element Technique also had its limits. In just this moment, he had already used up five hundred years of lifespan.

"Come on, let's have a good fight."

Lin Jiang clenched his teeth and walked straight out of the protective range of the cave formation. Yusong's eyes lit up at this sight. Wasn't this seeking death? Within the formation, he couldn't do anything, but outside the formation, any of the Building Foundation Late Stage cultivators around Lin Jiang could easily deal with him.

"Big Shadiao, come forth!"

Lin Jiang released Big Shadiao directly, a formidable creature.

"Ying..."

As Big Shadiao emerged from the Spirit Beast Bag, it immediately soared into the air, emitting a piercing and shrill cry. Many Qi Refining Period cultivators covered their ears and screamed in agony.

Yusong's smile instantly froze, and the faces of the Building Foundation Late Stage cultivators around him turned pale.

"Third rank..."

"Third rank beast pet."

Someone shouted in surprise, how could a Building Foundation cultivator possibly have a third-tier beast pet? Even the core disciples of major sects hardly have one.

"Get rid of them."

Lin Jiang commanded Big Shadiao, and it responded directly with action. Its wings flapped, and dozens of wind blades appeared, sweeping towards the crowd. This was a new ability that Big Shadiao gained after advancing to the third tier.

"*Sound effect, "Puh"*"

"*Sound effect, "Ah"*"

"My hand!"

"Help me!"

The wind blades swept through the crowd. Those in the Building Foundation Period could still resist to some extent, but those in the Qi Refining Period suffered heavy casualties. Some had their limbs torn off by the wind blades, while others fell silent forever.

"Friend Lin, it's a misunderstanding, it's all a misunderstanding."

"Forget the misunderstanding, come and get me, Big Shadiao, fight him."

Lin Jiang roared angrily, so you're bullying the weak and afraid of the strong, if you can't win you just misunderstand, that's not how things work, you've said enough.

Big Shadiao understood, immediately flapping its wings, creating more wind blades. The remaining Qi Refining Period was running away frantically, while Yusong was desperately trying to block the wind blades.

Each wind blade had the strength of the later stages of the Building foundation, it wouldn't be difficult to block a few, but the problem was that there were too many.

"Ying..."

Big Shadiao launched an attack, its speed was several times faster than when it was at the second stage. Once it started diving, it couldn't be seen with the naked eye, even scanning with divine consciousness only revealed a streak of light.

"Puh"

A late-stage Building foundation was directly crushed into pieces, bursting into four or five fragments. Big Shadiao's sharp claws were even sharper than a top-grade spiritual weapon.

"Retreat"

Yusong shouted loudly and immediately flew away on his sword. If they were prepared, they could still fight against a third-level monster. But in this unexpected battle, they had no hope at all.

"Big Shadiao, chase after Yusong and don't leave any survivors."

Lin Jiang coldly gave the order. In terms of speed, even ten Yusongs combined were no match for Big Shadiao.

Big Shadiao left, leaving only two late-stage Building foundation cultivators. They exchanged a glance and decided not to run, but instead came directly towards Lin Jiang, with fierce determination.

They finally understood that if it was any other beast pet, they could have escaped. But this was an Aurora falcon, known for its speed. It was impossible to outrun it. It would be better to capture the leader first and defeat Lin Jiang for a greater chance of victory.

"I knew you would come back. Watch this move!"

Lin Jiang shouted loudly, surpassing the fierce independent cultivators from the north. Lin Jiang was well-prepared and took out a stack of spiritual talismans. He activated them one by one, twenty in total.

The low-grade spiritual talismans of the second level could not deliver a deadly blow, but their threat should not be underestimated, especially since there were so many. The two cultivators immediately shifted from attacking to defending, each summoning a protective shield and desperately channeling their spiritual energy.

Amidst the dazzling onslaught of spiritual talisman attacks, Lin Jiang seized the opportunity to unleash a flying sword. With the support of the Explosive Element Technique, he shattered the opponent's shield with one strike. But the person had disappeared.

"Die!"

The other person appeared beside Lin Jiang, and in terms of battle awareness, he was much stronger than Lin Jiang.

"Boom"

A sword stabbed Lin Jiang's neck, but a red light blocked the attack. The superb quality robe had a powerful defense. The Blacksmith previously told Lin Jiang that theoretically, this robe could withstand three full power attacks from someone with an initial golden core.

"Thunder Talisman"

Lin Jiang quickly used the Thunder Talisman, and a loud thunder struck the person's chest, sending him flying backwards.

Taking advantage of Lin Jiang's weakened state, another person flew in with a sword, blocking Lin Jiang from pursuing.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. I encountered someone wealthy with two superb quality spiritual weapons."

The injured person shook his head sadly. For independent cultivators like them, the scariest thing is encountering players who spend a lot of money. It's very difficult to break the superb quality armor of these two powerful spiritual weapons.

"Don't measure my pocket money with your family's wealth."

Lin Jiang immediately showed off and took out a shield from his storage bag. It's also a superb quality spiritual weapon. When it comes to equipment, he wants a complete set.

The two looked at each other and started feeling reluctant. They glanced over at Yusong, who was still battling fiercely. Even though Yusong had achieved a strong foundation, it seemed like he could only hold on for a little longer.

"Attack!"

The two shouted at the same time and their flying swords soared in the air. But they quickly retreated, running away instead of fighting. It's not shameful to retreat when you can't win. It would be foolish to stubbornly persist.

"Where do you think you're going?"

The two's flying swords had already surpassed their telepathic control range and fell to the ground. Lin Jiang didn't want to let them go, so he chased after one of them and wildly threw spiritual talismans, stopping him in his tracks.

"Mr. Lin, don't push it too far. If you keep chasing, you'll provoke a big fight."

"Joke, let's see how you handle a difficult situation."

"Let's give it all we've got."

The person clenched their teeth, took out a black pill, squeezed it, and a black mist sprayed out from the pill. The person performed a spell and a gust of wind blew the mist towards Lin Jiang.

Lin Jiang realized it was poisonous and immediately cast a spell to escape. Meanwhile, the person and Lin Jiang had already created a significant distance between them.

"Little Shadiao, go!"

Lin Jiang had no choice but to summon his second Aurora falcon. By now, the people from the Hawk Ridge were nowhere in sight. Who cared about some nonsense village leader? What mattered was their own lives. They would have already vanished without a trace if they could grow four legs to run.

"Brother, brother..."

Just then, Big Shadiao returned, carrying Yusong. He wasn't dead yet, but he was close. He had no good piece of flesh left on his body.

"Spare me, spare me..."

"Granting you mercy"

Yusong still wanted to beg for mercy, but Lin Jiang ended his suffering. In consideration of his final plea, Lin Jiang decided to arrange a shorter street lamp for him.

Soon, Small Shadiao returned too, even fiercer. It killed both late-stage Building foundations, using its claws to grab one each, impressing Lin Jiang.

Chapter 96

Yunzhong Mountain Range, a certain peak

Five figures arrived almost simultaneously. If seen by an independent cultivator in the mountains, they would recognize their identities. They are Zheng Zhan and Zheng Qin, brothers from Black Water Pool, Chen Xuan from Medicine Immortal Valley, Ma Ping from Songmao Mountain, and Fu Tao from Baiyugang.

However, ordinary independent cultivators would never expect them to meet, because in the past thirty years, along with Yusong from Cangying Ridge, these five families have had constant friction. Although there has never been a full-scale battle, small-scale conflicts have never been few. On the surface, it appears that there is significant animosity between them.

"Yusong has fallen."

"I understand. The bodies have all been hanged up, along with a few of his close subordinates. Cangying Ridge has almost been completely wiped out."

"No one expected that, after all these years of searching, the Yunzhong Mountain Range would still have such a large alligator."

"Do you know anything about the person surnamed Lin?"

"I've never heard of him before. All I know is that he has been building foundations for over forty years and is a Talisman Maker. He once killed Zhou Yunyang and his gang and hung their bodies on tree poles. That's why Yusong hasn't touched him for many years."

Chen Xuan shook his head. They knew very little about Lin Jiang's whereabouts because they were very reclusive and rarely interacted with others.

"Let's discuss what to do."

"You can't touch him. He has a third-tier beast pet."

"If our four families join forces, we might have a chance."

"Hehe."

Ma Ping's words made the other four people laugh coldly. If the four families join forces and gather dozens of Building foundation experts, they might be able to defeat the third-tier beast pet, but there will be casualties. Who will end up dead then?

"The person with a three-level beast pet, who knows what kind of support they have. Since this person keeps to themselves, let's just pretend we didn't see them."

"He doesn't provoke us, so let's not provoke them either. The Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City is just a few months away, let's not mess up the big event."

Zheng Zhan said, he didn't want any accidents to happen. Over the past thirty years, they have eliminated the wealthy independent cultivators under their respective commands through continuous friction.

When people die, their wealth gets transferred. Eventually, most of the wealth ends up in their hands. They have almost saved enough spirit stones, and he just wants to hold on until the grand celebration and buy advanced pill-making treasures.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😍)

"I agree too. To be honest, if he wants my Medicine Immortal Valley, I will give it to him. It's a good opportunity to get rid of those useless people."

Chen Xuan said, over the years, they have done a lot to portray a positive image and recruited many subordinates. Now that their objective is about to be achieved, it's time to get rid of these people.

"Let's not provoke the Lin family, I also agree on that. But what about the territory of Cangying Ridge?"

"Let's split it. There are still a few months left, and Yusong's subordinates can still yield some benefits."

"That works, let's do it this way."

Several people agreed one after another, no one would dislike having more spirit stones. They would split them among themselves, and come up with a plan to squeeze out all of Yusong's subordinates. It would be a little extra supply for their cultivation journey.

·······

"Next time, don't do this again. I'm a bit scared."

Lin Jiang looked at the piles of spirit stones in front of him, feeling a bit scared. After killing Yusong and his group, Lin Jiang found nearly 700,000 spirit stones from their storage bags, filling half of a room directly.

And this is not even the most valuable part. Yusong wanted to buy the Five Elements Golden Fruit Pill, which required precious treasures as well. There were five fourth-grade spiritual medicines, six third-grade Demon Cores that Lin Jiang didn't recognize, a pile of precious minerals in a satin box, some unknown pills, and other items. Lin Jiang conservatively estimated the total value to be over 1.5 million spirit stones.

This fortune was enough to make an ordinary independent cultivator faint, even Lin Jiang felt a bit frightened.

Of course, Lin Jiang wasn't afraid of having too much money, but rather that it was coming too easily. Lin Jiang always believed in a saying: a person cannot earn wealth beyond their understanding, and even if they do, they can easily lose it.

Now Lin Jiang feels that this money is more wealth than he ever imagined. It's not the kind of money an ordinary builder like him should have. Lin Jiang is afraid that he will become obsessed with this quick way of making money.

Once he becomes obsessed, Lin Jiang won't be able to control himself and will start attacking and looting, even resorting to violence to get everything he wants.

This is an impossible path, because you cannot guarantee that every person you attack is weaker than you, just like Yusong. In his eyes, Lin Jiang is just at the middle stage of building foundation, while he has already reached the complete stage of building foundation. With a few helpers at the later stage of building foundation, he shouldn't lose. But now, they are hanging street lamps.

Lin Jiang also cannot guarantee whether the targets he chooses are truly weak or pretending to be strong.

"When it comes to plundering, you may succeed 99 times, but if you lose once, everything is gone. I have plenty of time to accumulate wealth. Remember, don't be greedy and don't do things just for quick money."

Lin Jiang repeatedly reminded himself that he is different from others. Others don't have time to accumulate wealth, but he does. When the time comes, he will have everything he needs.

Quietly packing up all his belongings, Lin Jiang called for Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao. This time, they did a great job and deserve a reward. Yusong's Demon Core will be left for them.

"Brother, brother..."

Big Shadiao swallowed a Demon Core and greeted Lin Jiang warmly. Lin Jiang touched his forehead and decided not to be angry with Shadiao. After all, brothers are brothers, like a father figure. It's almost the same.

"Chirp, chirp..."

Small Shadiao swallowed a Demon Core, rolled its eyes at Lin Jiang, and walked away with an indifferent pace. Its gaze was deep, as if contemplating a philosophical question.

"Oh my, Small Shadiao, what do you mean? You eat and drink everything of mine and you don't even want to call me 'father'."

Lin Jiang was very angry when he saw this. Big Shadiao and Small Shadiao should know around thirty or forty words, but Small Shadiao refuses to speak, as if it has never spoken before.

"Big Shadiao, is your little brother mute?"

Lin Jiang said to Big Shadiao. He must be mute, or why else would he refuse to call me 'father'?

"Brother..."

Big Shadiao seemed to be out of words, as if it couldn't speak anything else. Lin Jiang waved his hand helplessly and told it to go away and play by itself.

········

"Friend from the Taoist sect, Cloud Sword Sect's He Shaoyun is visiting, please come quickly."

Seven days after killing Yusong, a figure appeared in front of Lin Jiang's cave. It spoke politely, but its divine sense forcefully invaded Lin Jiang's cave.

"Independent cultivator Lin Wu, meet the senior of Cloud Sword Sect."

Lin Jiang went outside and greeted respectfully. He knew that what was meant to happen would happen.

"Lin Wu, do you know that my He family once wanted an independent cultivator who possessed an Aurora falcon?"

"I have heard about it. Do you think that person is me, senior?"

"Not sure, so I came to ask. How long have you been in Yunzhong Mountain Range?"

"Around forty years."

"How old are you this year?"

"Eighty-seven."

"Where did you practice before coming to Yunzhong Mountain Range?"

"Roamed far and wide, the area around Tai Shou Mountain, under the Five Elements Sect in Ruiyang Mountain, Anhua City, I've stayed there."

"I have also been to Ruiyang Mountain, so do you know..."

He Shao Yun immediately followed Lin Jiang's words and asked about some things near Ruiyang Mountain.

"Senior is not correct, Ruiyang Mountain stopped accepting independent cultivators a long time ago. They have set many tasks, and to join, you need to complete these tasks to earn their Merit Points. I remember that during the Building Foundation Period, it was thirty thousand Merit Points. I haven't been there in a long time, so I don't know the current amount."

Lin Jiang knew that every word He Shao Yun said was a trap, fortunately, he was prepared beforehand and pointed out the errors in He Shao Yun's words.

"Taoist Friend Lin is right, I haven't been there in a long time, I remembered incorrectly. So, Taoist Friend, where did this beast pet come from?"

"They are inherited from my parents. They should be around one hundred and sixty-seven years old. They consider me as their brother, and we have been living together since we were little."

"Can I take a look?"

"Sure."

Lin Jiang nodded and took out the Aurora falcon from the storage bag.

"Brother, eat, eat..."

As soon as Big Shadiao came out, it immediately started barking at Lin Jiang. Its huge bird head kept rubbing against Lin Jiang, almost knocking him over. When they were younger, it could only rub against Lin Jiang's pants.

He Shaoyun reached out to touch Big Shadiao, but Big Shadiao immediately bristled and made an attacking gesture towards him. It was close to Lin Jiang, but that didn't mean anyone could pet its fur.

"Quiet."

Lin Jiang immediately calmed Big Shadiao down and hugged it, secretly telling it to stop resisting.

He Shaoyun reached out and placed his hand on Big Shadiao's body, his spiritual consciousness invading its body. This almost made Big Shadiao explode in anger, but Lin Jiang tried his best to soothe it.

"Sorry, Taoist Friend Lin. This is a Benefit Spirit Pill, specifically made for refining beast pets. If beast pets eat this Benefit Spirit Pill regularly, they can quickly enhance their spirituality and awaken their wisdom. Consider this as a compensation from the He family today."

He Shaoyun withdrew his hand and took out two pills as compensation.

He has already checked and found that the lifespan of the Aurora falcon is indeed around 167 years, which proves that Lin Jiang didn't lie. In addition, other details can also serve as evidence. He Yunwei died nearly a hundred years ago, and the timeline doesn't match.

In fact, He Shaoyun has almost forgotten who He Yunwei is. If it weren't for his elders occasionally mentioning it, he wouldn't even bother about it. Now, he just needs to check it out as part of his routine.

"Thank you, senior, but I dare not take it."

"There's nothing you can't accept. The He family is not an unreasonable family. Just keep it."

"Thank you, senior."

"Raising third-level demonic beasts is very expensive. Even maintaining their cultivation level costs a significant amount each year. If one day you no longer wish to keep them, come to the Cloud Sword Sect and I will give you a satisfactory price to take them."

He Shaoyun said that third-level beast pets are already very valuable. If Lin Jiang is willing to sell, he would really offer a high price to buy them.

"These were given by my parents, and I haven't thought about selling them temporarily. In my eyes, they are not just beast pets, but also family."

"Understood. I'll leave now. Come find me if you change your mind."

He Shaoyun nodded and then flew away immediately, not wanting to be entangled with Lin Jiang.

Lin Jiang breathed a sigh of relief. After passing today's ordeal, the He family's matter was considered over.

Chapter 97

Yun State, Zhonghang Sect.

The Sect Master of Zhonghang Sect, along with several Nascent Soul Elders, was accompanying Lin Batian, who came as a guest. Especially the thirteenth elder, Ouyang Qing, was extremely enthusiastic towards Lin Batian, because a few years ago, Lin Batian had saved her life.

At that time, Ouyang Qing was in charge of defending the stronghold of Zhonghang Sect in the northern part of Yunzhong Mountain Range. Unexpectedly, a fourth-stage late period Wolf King targeted them and launched an attack with millions of demonic beasts. In the moment of danger, Lin Batian took action and repelled the Wolf King's attack. His formidable strength made everyone in Zhonghang Sect admire him.

After that, Ouyang Qing took the initiative to befriend Lin Batian and invited him to participate in the Centennial Celebration of Yunzhong City. Lin Batian gladly agreed, resulting in the current journey.

"Then it's settled. After the Yunzhong City Centennial Celebration, my Anhua City will establish another stronghold in the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range, neighboring your esteemed sect. By then, our two families will support and watch over each other..."

Lin Batian and the Sect Master of Zhonghang Sect discussed the matter for a while and finalized the plans. The Lin family of Anhua City was already preparing to venture into the Wilderness in the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range.

Actually, Anhua City is closer to the Wilderness in the southwest of Yun State. It can be reached within a few thousand miles. Unfortunately, the main cultivation power of Yun State is not in that direction, but rather to the north of Yunzhong Mountain Range. With only the strength of his family, he can't provoke the Demon King in the southwest, so he can only follow Zhonghang Sect to explore the north.

The Wilderness stronghold is very important to a power. A large number of independent cultivators enter the Wilderness to hunt monsters and they need a safe place for recovery, supplies, and information exchange. The stronghold can provide all of these. For a power, a stronghold is like a treasure trove. If managed well, it is more profitable than farming.

"Then I will represent Zhonghang Sect and wait in the Wilderness for City Lord Lin's arrival."

The head of Zhonghang Sect nodded. He had already heard from Ouyang Qing about what Lin Batian had done in the Wilderness. With his cultivation at the Nascent Soul stage, he had repelled the attack of a late stage Wolf King, which was truly impressive. Even the sword-crazy disciples from Cloud Sword Sect might not be able to do the same.

Furthermore, he learned that Lin Batian was only in his 300s in age, making him amazed at his great potential. If Anhua City and Zhonghang Sect were neighboring, he would spare no cost to eliminate Lin Batian, because he posed a threat to Zhonghang Sect's existence.

However, Anhua City is too far away from Zhonghang Sect. To make friends instead of conquering, they chose to establish a relationship. For a major sect like Zhonghang Sect, they were not motivated to expand further. Their goal was to maintain their current status and prevent their strength from declining.

"City Lord Lin, Zhonghang Sect has organized a banquet for you. Please make sure to attend tonight."

Lastly, the sect leader said to Lin Batian that he had brought along some of his offspring, many of whom were talented female cultivators with high levels of cultivation. He had already set his eyes on them, hoping that the disciples of Zhonghang Sect could attract them over.

Lin Batian gladly agreed. This time, he brought the most outstanding descendants of the Lin family with him. Besides allowing them to broaden their horizons, he also wanted to see if he could find suitable partners for them.

The Zhonghang Sect arranged a place to stay. Lin Batian went back to the place and said to Lin Die, "Dress nicely tonight, don't wear plain clothes."

"Father, why does a daughter who practices swordsmanship and values battle dress in bright and colorful clothes?"

"What else can it be? They are looking for a husband for you."

"Didn't you always oppose arranged marriages for us?"

"Arranged marriages are when parents force you to marry a specific person. It's called a blind date, do you understand?"

Lin Batian explained that he didn't actually want an arranged marriage, it was just a blind date. Please don't resist it that much.

"I don't want a blind date. The disciples of Zhonghang Sect are nothing special."

"I don't care. I see many beautiful female disciples of Zhonghang Sect. My daughter, Lin Batian's daughter, can't be inferior to them."

"Then why did you call me if you're not going to call the heirs of the fourth and fifth generations?"

Lin Die didn't say anything. In terms of appearance, she wasn't the most outstanding. There were many descendants of the Lin family, and the granddaughters and great-granddaughters in the later generations were the ones who were truly beautiful. Who knows how many men were enchanted by them.

"I'm telling you, there aren't many people in the Lin family, so of course they need to find them from outside. Do you think they just give them away? What are you thinking?"

Lin Batian was even more speechless. He still had some use for those beautiful descendants of the Lin family. He had to abduct a few high-quality sons-in-law.

"Are you not afraid that I will run away with someone?"

"A father knows his daughter best. I know you well, don't I? Just listen to me. Perform well tonight, and tomorrow I will let you lead a team to go to Yunzhong City. The Centennial Celebration in Yunzhong City is still more than ten days away, but it's already very lively now."

Lin Batian laughed loudly. How could he not know his own daughter? She had a strong determination, which couldn't be swayed by an ordinary man. If there really was a top-quality man who appeared, he would be happy to see it happen.

·······

In Yunzhong City, Lin Jiang was leaning on the fence, listening to music. Since he wiped out the main force of the Eagle Ridge in the Yunzhong Mountain Range, his reputation had immediately skyrocketed. The several families from the Black Water Pool didn't come to cause trouble anymore. It was mistakenly believed by the outside world that they were all afraid of Lin Jiang. Lin Jiang's cave became a forbidden zone for the forces in the area. No one dared to approach within fifty miles of Lin Jiang's cave.

Lin Jiang was happy about this. That way, no one would bother him. However, not long after, he made quite a few friends, some of whom were just acquaintances. They enthusiastically made friends with Lin Jiang.

Poor in the bustling city, no one cares. Rich in the deep mountains, there are distant relatives. Lin Jiang truly experienced this, but he didn't despise these people much. Seeking profit and avoiding harm is human nature. He himself is also an ordinary person, so he still maintains a superficial relationship with them.

"The Yun State Little Overlord they're talking about, is it related to the Lin family in Anhua City?"

Lin Jiang heard many people discussing the Yun State Little Overlord, and it sounded like they were talking about the Lin family.

"It's exactly the Lin family patriarch Lin Batian that Taoist Friend Lin mentioned."

"Is there a story? I want to hear it."

"It's about the situation in the north. It's said that the Lin family is also planning to expand to the north and establish a stronghold there. It's a big deal for independent cultivators."

"Please explain in more detail."

"About three years ago, the Zhonghang Sect's stronghold in the north was besieged by the mid-stage fourth-order Wolf King. At that time, Wolf King gathered nearly a million demons, densely packed and countless. Zhonghang Sect, led by the thirteen elders headed by Ouyang Qing, defended with three thousand disciples, plus five to six thousand independent cultivators. The battle was evenly matched. Just when the Zhonghang Sect stronghold was in danger, Anhua City's Lin Batian took action. With his Overlord Spear, he was unbeatable..."

Someone explained to Lin Jiang what happened in the north. Lin Jiang was still in seclusion at that time, so he naturally didn't know the situation. But it caused quite a stir. Even the Nascent Soul Elders of the Zhonghang Sect, who were in seclusion, were urgently awakened and prepared to go support them.

Lin Batian made a great name for himself by defeating the Wolf King at the later stage of the fourth realm. Now, almost everyone in Yun State knows him. He is praised as the Yun State Little Overlord.

However, for independent cultivators at the lower level, what they care about is establishing a stronghold in the Wilderness, especially a safe one. They prefer strong and reliable strongholds.

"Taoist Friend Lin, would you like to venture to the north? With your skills, you will surely make a name for yourself."

"Indeed, Taoist Friend Lin. The north is completely different from the south. In the south, one can only earn a few spirit stones in a year, but in the north, it's a different story. Powerful cultivators at the Building Foundation Period can earn tens of thousands of spirit stones in a year."

"Taoist Friend Lin···"

Everyone started suggesting that Lin Jiang should go to the north and talked about the benefits of going there.

Lin Jiang remained calm on the surface, but he felt speechless inside. These tactics were just like how he fooled Xie Youjia before, only talking about profits and not mentioning risks. People who don't understand will be taken advantage of.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😖)

After multiple investigations, Lin Jiang already had a rough idea of the situation in the north. They did earn a lot from hunting monsters, but there were also many deaths. Almost every day, a few people would die, even during the Golden Core Period. After ten or eight years, one or two would still die.

Moreover, the ones earning the most money in the north were actually the sects that established their bases there. The prices of goods in their bases were even more expensive than in Yunzhong City. The majority of the profits went to the sects. If the north really made so much money, the figures from Black Water Pool and Medicine Immortal Valley would not have stayed in Yunzhong Mountain Range.

Lin Jiang didn't refuse or agree on the surface, nor did he easily show his attitude. He vaguely brushed them off.

Seeing Lin Jiang's lack of response, the others didn't want to pressure him further and changed the topic. They talked about the upcoming Centennial Celebration. It was only a few days away, and the situation in Yunzhong Mountain Range was becoming chaotic. Many independent cultivators were fleeing again.

Lin Jiang remained silent about this. He had destroyed the Yusong sect in Cangying Ridge, which was why no one dared to disturb him. But in other places, rivers of blood were flowing. Black Water Pool, Medicine Immortal Valley, Songmao Mountain, and Baiyugang, these four independent cultivator forces were attacking each other, causing countless casualties.

It wasn't just them; suddenly, many powerful figures appeared, including some from smaller factions like the villages and towns outside of Yunzhong City. They also got involved.

In short, ordinary independent cultivators in Yunzhong Mountain Range were like helpless lambs. Anyone could come and slaughter them, plundering their wealth. And one group would be followed by another. Even if this batch of people died, countless independent cultivators would still come in the future.

This made Lin Jiang feel sad about the fate of independent cultivators, and he had great sympathy for them. But Lin Jiang couldn't do anything about it, he was just a regular independent cultivator.

"It's almost time, let's go our separate ways."

Lin Jiang glanced at the sky and let everyone disperse. He also had to leave, he couldn't always hang out in a place like Baihua Tower. He had to pull himself together.

This Centennial Celebration was a rare grand event in Yunzhong City, with countless treasures appearing. Lin Jiang also had to take the opportunity to get some, like things to improve his cultivation talent. He thought his cultivation progress was too slow.

Chapter 98

Yunzhong City

These days, Lin Jiang has been in Yunzhong City. Before the Centennial Celebration, major businesses would finalize some auction items and release announcements in advance, so that customers can prepare in advance.

Lin Jiang has been collecting these news, wanting to obtain some treasures. He must prepare in advance, or else he would have to spend a lot of unnecessary money.

The top businesses in Yunzhong City are mainly Duobao Pavilion and Star Gathering Tower. They have the most auctions during each Centennial Celebration, and they have the highest standards. Every Centennial Celebration will have some unexpected treasures appearing.

Next is the medium-sized business alliance led by Four Seas Trading Company. They gather more than ten medium-sized businesses and jointly hold auctions. They may not be as high in quality as Duobao Pavilion, but their impact is no less.

They are also one of Lin Jiang's main targets. The top-tier auctions like Duobao Pavilion and Star Gathering Tower actually have nothing to do with Lin Jiang. First, he can't afford them, and second, he may not even have the qualifications.

"Seems like I have to restore Lin Sheng's identity and borrow Cao Ying's influence."

After wandering around for a few days, Lin Jiang realized that his current identity doesn't hold much weight. Mainly because Lin Jiang used too many identities when buying things before, and many of them were bought from the fake black market in the city. He doesn't have any points at all, and the businesses won't pay attention to you if you don't have enough spirit stones to spend. Without enough spending, you wouldn't have the qualifications.

"I haven't seen Cao Ying in over thirty years. If I see her now, I'll probably get blamed to death."

Lin Jiang also thought about this problem. He disappeared without a trace for over thirty years. Cao Ying must be furious. If they meet now, it would be so awkward.

"Forget it, forget it. Let's talk about it later. I'll figure it out myself first."

Lin Jiang hesitated for a long time but decided to talk about it later. If he really couldn't go to the auction he wanted to go to, he would use Lin Sheng's identity.

Two days later, Lin Jiang was discussing the treasure lists of various major businesses with a few familiar independent cultivators at a restaurant. Suddenly, he felt something strange in his storage bag. Lin Jiang quickly checked and was shocked. It was the control token for the formation in his cave, and it kept jumping.

"Is someone stealing from my home?"

Lin Jiang felt a little anxious and quickly found an excuse to leave, then hurried towards the city gate.

Although Lin Jiang had placed some spirit stones on the formation base of the Eight Gate Golden Armor Formation before leaving home to make up for the lack of spiritual energy, it wasn't much. Moreover, the formation needed someone to control it to reach its maximum effectiveness. Without anyone controlling it, it was just an inanimate object and could easily be discovered and attacked.

Lin Jiang had put a lot of effort into his cave. If someone stole from his home, it would be a big loss.

"Not right, not right, something is wrong."

Lin Jiang had reached the gate of the city when he suddenly realized something was wrong.

Lin Jiang defeated Yusong and his group from Cangying Ridge. The news had already spread. Yusong was at the advanced stage of the Building Foundation Period, and Lin Jiang's Aurora falcon had been exposed. The attackers were definitely not from Black Water Pool, but from the Golden Core Period or higher.

"Someone from the Golden Core Period has set their eyes on me. Attacking my residence is their way of luring me out. That's their intention."

Lin Jiang instantly understood. He didn't know who was targeting him, but he was certain that if he went out, he would be in mortal danger.

With this in mind, Lin Jiang turned around and headed back to the city. He could abandon the things in his residence. Compared to his life, those belongings meant nothing.

"Taoist friend, please stay."

Before Lin Jiang had gone far, someone blocked his path. Lin Jiang scanned him with his consciousness, but it disappeared in front of him. He realized this person had achieved the Golden Core level of cultivation.

"Just tell me, who are you and why do you want to lure me out of the city?"

"Taoist Friend Lin held something that belongs to us, hoping Taoist Friend Lin will return it."

"What thing? Why don't I know about it?"

"Breaking Array Cone"

"Breaking Array Cone, after so many years, you just remembered? Is that fair?"

Lin Jiang instantly understood who this person was - a member of the Dark Night Organization. But Breaking Array Cone was the assassin who was with Zhou Yunyang when Lin Jiang killed him. It's been thirty years already, what is this guy thinking?

"I'm too busy and overwhelmed, I hope Taoist Friend Lin can make it easy."

"What if I don't?"

"If you don't, then sorry to say, Taoist Friend Lin will face trouble. The Dark Night Organization will come back and you might be our first target. Taoist Friend Lin, you wouldn't want to be constantly targeted for assassination, right?"

The person replied that since the battle in Sanjiang Estuary years ago, the Dark Night Organization has been unlucky. They were first suppressed by two major sects and many people died. Later, they failed several missions, especially against assassins at the Building Foundation Period level. There are only a few of them left.

In addition to the continuous pressure from the two major sects, they had to hide and keep quiet. They even moved their main force elsewhere, leaving only a small number of troops near Yunzhong City. It was not until now that their main force was sent back.

"I'm curious, is the Breaking Array Cone really worth all this trouble?"

"This is our business, Taoist Friend Lin just needs to return the things to us."

"But based on what I know about you, even if I return the things, you won't let me off."

Lin Jiang shook his head. The Breaking Array Cone posed a great threat to him. He relied on formations to protect himself in the Yunzhong Mountain Range. If the Dark Night Organization had the Breaking Array Cone, it could easily break through his defensive formations. Moreover, he had possessed it for decades. It was too good to be true for Dark Night to ask him to return it.

"Don't deceive yourself, Taoist Friend Lin. Sometimes, a dispute of pride can cost you your life."

"Can you consider yourself a threat to me now?"

"So what if you can?"

"Help! There are Dark Night Organization assassins here. He wants to kill me."

Suddenly, Lin Jiang shouted loudly, and the pedestrians around were first stunned, then focused their gaze on the two of them.

"·····"

The people from the Dark Night Organization's faces stiffened. They were really angry. You, Sixth Brother, unexpectedly used sneaky tricks without playing fair.

"Remember this."

The person left a sentence and quickly displayed their agility to escape, as they had already seen a patrol team coming this way.

"Where is the assassin, where is the assassin?"

The patrol team quickly appeared. The two major sects have always maintained a high-pressure policy towards the assassin organization. In their eyes, the assassin organization is equivalent to a terrorist organization in the cultivation world.

Lin Jiang honestly confessed and even described the appearance of that person. Although it might have been a disguise, it would still give them some trouble.

Of course, there couldn't be an immediate response to such a matter. Those patrol teams simply recorded the incident and let Lin Jiang go.

Lin Jiang also didn't expect them to do anything, he had already made a decision, he wouldn't leave Yunzhong City until the Centennial Celebration was over, he would hide in Yunzhong City for a while before deciding.

········

"Friend Taoist Lin, where have you been all these years?"

When Lin Jiang appeared again as Lin Sheng at the Star Gathering Tower, the shopkeeper immediately expressed his grievances towards Lin Jiang.

"Steward Zhang has become the shopkeeper Zhang, congratulations!"

Lin Jiang smiled, more than thirty years had passed, the former shopkeeper had disappeared, and the previous steward had been promoted.

"Taoist Friend Lin····"

"Shopkeeper Zhang, I was just traveling around, no need to exaggerate like that."

"Friend Taoist Lin, do you know that Cao Ying has been desperately looking for you all these years? For three years, Cao Ying worked at the Star Gathering Tower just to wait for you."

"Is it like this?"

Upon hearing this, Lin Jiang felt guilty in his heart. He didn't expect Cao Ying to do these things.

"I can't deceive you anymore. Cao Ying not only worked in this position for three years, waiting specifically for you, but she was also tricked. Someone said they saw you south of Yuntuo River, so she went to look for you. Unexpectedly, she fell into an ambush. If it wasn't for the timely rescue by the sect, she might have died."

"How is Cao Ying?"

Lin Jiang instantly lost his composure and couldn't bear to hear any more. He anxiously asked.

"She's fine. You wait here, I will inform Cao Ying."

"Okay."

"She'll be here soon, at most two hours."

"I'll wait."

Lin Jiang nodded, feeling deep regret. He never expected Cao Ying to do all these things for him, and he almost got fooled because of it. It's really a shame.

"Bang!"

Two hours quickly passed. The door was forcefully pushed open, and Cao Ying appeared at the doorway, staring blankly at Lin Jiang.

"Little Ying···"

Lin Jiang called out, but Cao Ying didn't respond. She just looked at him and slowly walked towards him, tears streaming down her face.

"Don't cry, don't cry. I can't stand seeing women cry."

Lin Jiang appeared a bit flustered, wanting to wipe away Cao Ying's tears like he used to when she was younger, but he realized that Cao Ying was now a grown girl, so it wouldn't be appropriate.

Sigh, hasn't anyone invented tissues in this world?

"Uncle..."

"Oh, I am here."

"I'm hungry, I want to eat the food you make."

"Okay, okay, I will make it for you right away, I will make it for you now."

Lin Jiang quickly agreed, but found out that there were no pots, bowls, or utensils. Couldn't make anything.

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😌)

In the end, they borrowed the place where the Star Gathering Tower guys lived in to cook. Lin Jiang worked hard for two hours and made more than ten dishes that Cao Ying liked.

"Why aren't you eating?"

"I'm too scared to eat."

"Why, afraid that uncle will poison you?"

Lin Jiang decided to tell a corny joke, and ended up successfully killing the mood. It was quite awkward.

"Haha, just kidding, just kidding."

"I'm afraid that if I finish eating, you'll run away again, and not show up for decades, uncle, do you not want Little Ying anymore?"

"How could that be, I'm back now, aren't I?"

"Then you're not allowed to run away again."

"I won't run, I won't run."

"Don't lie to me."

"I won't lie to you."

"Really, you can't lie to me. I'm in the Golden Core Period now. If you dare to lie to me, I will bring you back to the Zhonghang Sect, I, I..."

"What is this? I'm already in the Golden Core Period?"

Lin Jiang heard the news and his food suddenly lost its taste. They hadn't seen each other in thirty years, and now he was already in the Golden Core Period. How was it possible?

Oh no, his young niece was about to surpass him and become a senior. He would be the shorter one when they met.

Chapter 99

Yunzhong City, North District.

Lin Jiang and Cao Ying stood in front of a beautiful house. Lin Jiang watched as Cao Ying skillfully deactivated the defensive formation and then they walked inside.

"Whose house is this? It looks amazing!"

Lin Jiang examined the house. It was spacious, and the yard was filled with beautiful flowers, giving it a charming aura.

"It's mine."

"Oh, wait, it's really yours? Are you referring to it literally?"

"Yes, I bought it."

"Little Ying, lying is not good, please don't deceive Uncle."

Lin Jiang turned around and sternly said to Cao Ying. It's not good for children to lie.

"I didn't lie to you, it's really something I bought, just last year."

"Ahem, can you tell Uncle how much you spent on this house and where the money came from?"

"One million eight hundred thousand low-grade spirit stones."

"How did you get the money? Did you find a place to get spirit stones from the sky? Hurry, take Uncle there!"

Lin Jiang suddenly became uneasy. Where did Cao Ying get so many spirit stones? Even if she robbed a bank, she couldn't get this much. Could it be that she looted the Zhonghang Sect's warehouse?

"Earned, saved."

"Little Ying, it's not good to only say half of something. Explain it clearly to me."

Lin Jiang got angry. This child, always leaving things half-unfinished, it's like teasing someone's appetite.

Uncle, I have a high income, listen up. In Zhonghang Sect, I am an elder's personal disciple. In the Qi Refining Period, I receive five thousand spirit stones as a salary every year. In the Building Foundation Period, it's thirty thousand spirit stones per year, and there are also spiritual pills like True Yuan Pills provided by the sect. With the sect's distribution of spiritual pills, half of my cultivation expenses are taken care of.

As for the remaining pills, I have my master's disciples refine them for me at a low cost. Besides, Feilai Peak has its own industries, and I can earn over ten thousand spirit stones from it every year. Now that I've reached the Golden Core Period, I can earn thirty thousand spirit stones annually.

In addition, I also take on missions for the sect and receive rewards. Depending on the mission, I earned five thousand spirit stones per year when I was at Star Gathering Tower before.

But the most I earned was during the eight years I spent in the Wilderness up north. I made hundreds of thousands of spirit stones in income every year. I saved and saved, and soon I had too many spirit stones to fit in my storage bag. So I thought of buying a house instead of buying Foundation Establishment treasures.

"Can one really make that much money in the Wilderness?"

"No, independent cultivators don't make money. I make money."

"Why is that?"

"Because I have a good master, and my master lets my senior sister protect me, so I can go to places where others dare not go. Even if I encounter a third-level monster, my senior sister will still save my life. In addition, I hunt demons, collect herbs, and mine for resources at a price that is different from yours. The items that my sect collects from me are priced about 50% higher than yours. Additionally, I get lower prices for resting and buying things in the stronghold compared to you. Accommodation is also free. Going back and forth, it's natural that I can earn more money than you."

"Sour."

Lin Jiang clenched his teeth and blurted out two words. Could it be that the end of the universe is really a made-up story? Cao Ying joined the Zhonghang Sect and there are so many benefits. This is too amazing.

"Uncle, don't be sour. The treatment I receive is something that others don't have. Only personal disciples have it. There won't be more than a hundred personal disciples in the Zhonghang Sect."

Cao Ying smiled. There are more people sour about her than just her uncle. Almost everyone in the Zhonghang Sect is sour about her, because not everyone has this kind of treatment.

"Hmm, Uncle, don't be sour. The richer and stronger you are, the better. I'll stick with you in the future."

Lin Jiang said, feeling helpless. He shouldn't be sour anymore. Look at Cao Ying and then look at himself. He was too proud of his little achievements, living for more than two hundred years is nothing compared to her.

"Uncle, let's make a deal. You're not allowed to run away anymore."

"I won't run."

"If you promise me not to run away anymore, I will give you this house."

"What is this?"

Lin Jiang was puzzled. Was his eldest niece really this filial? He felt so embarrassed.

"You heard right, this house will be yours in the future."

"Then why do we have to wait? Can't we do it now?"

"It's not that we can't, I'm just afraid you'll sell the house and run away."

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😃)

"Cough cough, Uncle is not that kind of person."

Lin Jiang felt a bit embarrassed. Cao Ying, oh Cao Ying, you really know people well.

"Uncle, please don't run away. Stay here, I'll find a way to help you achieve your goal."

"Don't run anymore. You don't need help. Take care of yourself. If you become strong and better, Uncle will be happy."

Lin Jiang tried not to smile and spoke seriously. Cao Ying had said "don't run anymore" at least thirty times that day. It was clear that she was really afraid he would run away again. His absence for thirty years had left a big impact on her.

Cao Ying asked Lin Jiang to sit down and asked what he had been doing all these years. Lin Jiang felt even more guilty in his heart. He couldn't bring himself to say that he had been in the Yunzhong Mountain Range and hadn't come to see her. So Lin Jiang changed the subject and asked about Cao Ying's life in the Zhonghang Sect. Cao Ying happily shared every little detail of her life with Lin Jiang.

······

"Dad, are you sure the person is here?"

In the northern part of the city, in front of Cao Ying's house, Lin Die said to Lin Batian.

"Keeping some tricks with my Spear Talisman, isn't that normal? As long as he hasn't sold the Spear Talisman, it's fine. Knock on the door."

Lin Batian said. This time, he had come to find the person named Lin Wu that Lin Die had mentioned. According to Lin Die, that guy should be a member of their Lin family who had been living away from home.

The Lin family cultivators were not many. After occupying Anhua City for decades, they had experienced another major development, but there were only a little over a thousand cultivators. If the person was talented, he would be brought back. If he wasn't a member of the Lin family, the Spear Talisman had to be taken back, and in return, Lin Batian would offer other treasures. He had put a lot of effort into refining that Spear Talisman. He had only given it to three people in the entire Lin family, so he couldn't let outsiders have it for cheap.

"It's you."

Cao Ying heard someone knocking at the door, and when she opened it, she was a bit surprised.

"So it's Martial Sister Cao."

Lin Die was also very surprised. They had met before when Lin Batian brought her to attend the welcome banquet held by Ouyang Qing. They had seen Cao Ying at the banquet.

Lin Die had a very strong impression of her, because she knew that Cao Ying was a talented genius highly favored by the Zhonghang Sect. Despite being less than sixty years old, she had already reached the Foundation Establishment stage, which was very impressive.

"Why is Senior Sister Lin here?"

"Looking for Lin Wu."

"Who is Lin Wu?"

"He lives here."

"I don't have a person named Lin Wu."

"Martial Sister Cao, I won't make a mistake in finding the right place."

Lin Die said, "There is Lin Batian's mark on the Spear Talisman, I will definitely not make a mistake in finding the right place."

"Lin Wu···"

Cao Ying's thoughts shifted, and she suddenly realized something.

"I said there is no such person. Senior Sister Lin made a mistake in finding the right place. It's fine, let it be."

"Wait, I have no ill intentions, really. He might be a member of my lost tribe that I and my father are looking for."

Lin Die knew Cao Ying might misunderstand, and quickly said. Cao Ying saw Lin Batian not far away and felt a bit panicked. She suddenly didn't know what to do.

"Little Ying, who is it?"

At that moment, Lin Jiang heard a noise and came out. He was very surprised to see Lin Die.

"Hello, Taoist Friend Lin, we meet again."

"Taoist friend mistook someone else, right?"

"Your ability to change your appearance is very clever, but I'm not here to bother you. Could you change back to your original appearance?"

Lin Die said. The person in front of her bears a striking resemblance to Lin Wu, and she won't make a mistake.

"My ability to change my appearance still needs improvement. It would be best if I can learn a secret technique that can make my bones shrink."

Lin Jiang sighed in his heart. His ability to change his appearance could deceive ordinary cultivators, but it was still difficult to fool someone who was determined. He needed to improve for the next time.

"Senior, what can I do for you?"

"My father wants to confirm if you are a member of the Lin family."

"Is it or isn't it, what's the difference?"

"Of course, if you are a member of my Lin family, then you should go home and embrace your roots. A wanderer away from home should have a place to call home, don't you think?"

"Who I am and where I come from no longer matter. What matters is the present and the future. Whether I have any connection to the Lin family or not, I have no intention of going to Anhua City."

Lin Jiang said. Right now, he dares not go back. There are too many things to explain.

"Taoist Friend Lin, don't worry. It's true that the men of the Lin family have their faults, but we still care for our relatives. If you are a descendant of the Lin family, even if you don't want to return home, we will still provide you with some assistance."

"Cough, cough."

Upon hearing this, Lin Batian became displeased. What do you mean by saying that the men of the Lin family have many faults? Isn't he one of them? Is it right to speak ill of your father?

Lin Jiang finally noticed Lin Batian. After more than a hundred years, he once again saw this dear old father. His emotions were quite complicated.

Lin Batian may be his biological father, but Lin Jiang and he were not close. It was the same for the original host as well. In the several decades within the Lin family, Lin Jiang probably didn't exchange more than five hundred sentences with him. Most of them were just routine questions and answers, lacking any father-son bond.

But Lin Jiang didn't really blame him, after all, he had too many children to take care of. Lin Jiang just felt indifferent about this father-son relationship. The memories given to him by the Lin family were mostly of Lin Die, Lin Ying, his mother Zhuang Rong, and the Spiritual Peach Mountain Villa.

"I have met City Lord Lin."

Cao Ying greeted Lin Batian with a bow. Lin Batian had a good relationship with her master, Ouyang Qing, so the proper etiquette was necessary.

"Little Friend Cao, there's no need for too much formality."

Lin Batian stepped forward, then examined Lin Jiang with his eyes, and finally said, "Judging from your appearance and physique, you seem to be Sixth Brother's offspring. Is your father named Lin Jiang?"

Chapter 100

North District of Yunzhong City

Lin Die and Lin Batian stood in the courtyard of Cao Ying's cave, engaged in a secret conversation.

"Dad, is this Lin Wu truly Sixth Brother's child?"

Lin Die was full of questions. In her impression, Sixth Brother had never married, so where did the child come from?

"When Sixth Brother left home, he was ninety-five years old. He had the Green Rock Pill given by Old Ten, which could extend his life by twenty years. It should be possible. Let's test his bloodline later to find out."

Lin Batian said. A person in the Qi Refining Period can live to around a hundred. It depends on individual constitution whether it's slightly less or slightly more than a hundred. When Lin Jiang ate the Green Rock Pill, theoretically, he could definitely live beyond a hundred. Also, considering his identity as a cultivator, it's not impossible for him to marry a mortal woman. So the probability is still quite high.

At this moment, Lin Batian recalled Lin Jiang's life in the Lin family. He admitted that his sixth child was not what he considered an outstanding child—lazy, playful, lacking ambition. His character was incompatible with the upward family style of the Lin family. That's why he didn't like him and sent him to the estate in the countryside.

But his sixth child was indeed a filial child. Lin Batian had many wives and concubines, and he wasn't good at dealing with trivial matters. So after those wives and concubines grew old and lost their beauty, they were basically relegated to a cold palace. It was Sixth Brother Lin Jiang who provided them with a happy life in their old age and took care of them. Lin Batian was grateful for that.

It was quite an achievement for Lin Jiang to travel to different places in his old age, which Lin Batian admired. So at that time, Lin Batian agreed to let him take the Soul Lamp with him.

"If we calculate it that way, the probability of Lin Wu being Sixth Brother's child is quite high. They look alike as well. Unfortunately, he doesn't want to show his true identity. He always disguises himself. Dad, do you want to bring him back home?"

"Let's see how the situation goes. If he doesn't want to, then forget it. He has been away for too long, and he doesn't have any attachment to the Lin family. But it's important to confirm that he is indeed a Lin family descendant."

"Dad, didn't you say before..."

"Changed mind not allowed?"

"Okay, okay, you're dad, you have the final say, but if he really is Sixth Brother's child, we can't treat him unfairly."

Lin Die was speechless. Changing minds too quickly, she had to fight for some benefits for Sixth Brother's child. Among many siblings, she was close to Lin Jiang and Lin Ying.

······

"Uncle, you're really from the Lin family in Anhua City?"

"Who knows?"

"Uncle, don't you know your own parents?"

"Yes, I do."

"Then, Uncle..."

"Let bygones be bygones."

Lin Jiang waved his hand. He really didn't want to bring up this matter. He was afraid of being exposed. Who knew Lin Batian would come knocking on his door? It must be because of that spiritual talisman. If only he had known, he wouldn't have been greedy. Sigh.

"Uncle..."

Lin Jiang's words reached Cao Ying's ears, but it was a different story to her. In her mind, she envisioned Lin Jiang's miserable childhood - his father abandoning him and his mother, or perhaps not even having a father at all, relying solely on his mother for his upbringing.

It made her think of herself as well. Wasn't she in a similar situation? The memories of her parents had long become blurry.

"Sniffle, Uncle is so pitiful. No wonder he adopted me back then. He didn't want me to end up like him."

In that moment, Cao Ying felt immense pity for Lin Jiang in her heart. He was a pitiful man, and she couldn't let him suffer anymore. She would be the one to safeguard his remaining years.

"Uncle, do you want to return to Anhua City and the Lin family?"

"What? Cao Ying, are you trying to chase me away?"

Lin Jiang pretended to be shocked and said, Cao Ying immediately got anxious and quickly explained, "No, no, uncle, you've misunderstood, I didn't mean that."

"It's okay, Little Ying, that..."

"No, uncle, please don't go, I won't mention it again, I'll go chase them away."

"No, no, no, don't get upset."

Lin Jiang grabbed Cao Ying and thought, why is this child getting so worked up? I haven't finished talking yet.

"Uncle, I really don't want you to leave."

"I know, I won't leave, you see, I wasn't prepared either, understand? Imagine being alone for decades and suddenly a grandfather appears, would you accept it?"

"I wouldn't."

"That's exactly it, so you can relax now."

"Hmm, now I can relax. But the Lin family owes you, don't foolishly refuse."

"Sorry, that's really embarrassing."

"That's how it is, Uncle feels sorry, let me say it."

Cao Ying said, she made up her mind to help her uncle seek justice. The family may not recognize him, but he deserves compensation. This is what the Lin family owes him, because they neglected their responsibility.

"City Lord Lin, we have discussed it. My uncle is willing to undergo a blood test."

"Thank you very much, Little Friend Cao."

"City Lord Lin, but we need to agree in advance. If my uncle is not part of your Lin family, you should offer him something in return, as compensation. If he is part of the Lin family, whether he goes back or not is up to him. You can't force him. But after all these years of owing him, you still need to give him something."

"Haha, Little Friend Cao, you're even more domineering than me."

"So, do you agree or not?"

"Promise, promise, is that alright?"

Lin Batian laughed. This is really a great deal, we won't lose out no matter what.

"Uncle, he agreed."

"Let's test it."

Lin Jiang nodded. Lin Batian had come knocking on the door, there was no escaping now. It was better to confirm his identity and avoid any worries in the future.

"Take a drop of your blood. The brighter the light on it becomes, the closer our bloodlines are."

Lin Batian took out a tool resembling a ruler. He drew a drop of his own blood first, then Lin Jiang did the same and dropped it on the other end.

Lin Batian activated his spiritual power, and the two drops of blood were attracted to each other through the tool, merging together in the middle. Soon, the tool began to emit a glow.

"Is this the blood recognition ceremony of the cultivation world? Can it really be accurate?"

Lin Jiang was a bit doubtful. Can we talk about science, or should we do a paternity test instead?

"Dad, what's going on?"

"No problem, it has been confirmed that he is a descendant of the Lin family. And from the looks of it, he seems to be somewhere between the second and third generation, with a pure bloodline. If we had brought the magical tool, we could have been more precise, but unfortunately, we didn't bring it."

Lin Batian said. The magical tool can determine if he is a descendant of the Lin family, but it's a bit blurry as to which generation he belongs to. He didn't bring a more precise magical tool.

"Lin Wu, you are truly the child of Sixth Brother. Hurry and call me 'Third Auntie'."

"*Cough cough.*"

"Be quick! How come you don't recognize your aunt? Does that mean I, your grandfather, should also refuse to recognize you?"

Lin Batian, the eldest, was not pleased. He had already tested their bloodline and yet they still didn't call for help. It was a bit impolite.

Lin Jiang felt extremely awkward. Third Sister had become Third Auntie, Dad had become Grandpa, so does that mean he was his own dad?

"Lord Lin, my uncle has been away from home for many years, and it is difficult to accept at first, but blood is blood, it cannot be escaped. Please give my uncle some time."

Cao Ying stepped in to resolve the situation, pulling Lin Die and giving her a meaningful look, acting all cute.

"Father, Martial Sister Cao is right. There's no need to force anything. Blood ties are an unchangeable fact."

"That jerk doesn't learn anything good. He only learns the bad things from me."

Lin Batian shouted angrily. He has many children, so he can't take care of all of them. But his sixth child is just one person. Wait, hold on, could it be that his sixth child is also sowing his seeds everywhere he goes? That's why he can't take care of them either?

The thought instantly made Lin Batian's face turn black. From now on, his children will have wives outside...

"Father, what's wrong?"

"It's nothing, nothing. I'll go first."

(Translated by Gravity Tales 😜)

"Lord Lin, um, um..."

Cao Ying saw Lin Batian trying to slip away and became anxious. Is he not keeping his word? We agreed that he would make amends for what he owes.

"I haven't forgotten, I've already given you the greatest benefit, little brother. I'll leave it for you to deal with. I have something to attend to, so I'll run ahead."

Lin Batian left a few words and disappeared without a trace. He needed to go home and fix the family's reputation. In the future, the Lin family's descendants can have multiple wives and concubines, but they must bring their children back, otherwise there will be too many relatives in Yun State to handle.

"Senior Sister Lin, what's the deal with City Lord Lin? Did he really give you the benefit?"

"He gave a little, a Life Talisman from my father."

"Ah!"

Cao Ying exclaimed. A Life Talisman, that's truly the biggest benefit. She was favored by Ouyang Qing, but she didn't receive Ouyang Qing's Life Talisman.

"That's not enough, Lin Wu. From now on, Third Auntie will favor you. Whatever your father didn't give you, Third Auntie will provide."

Lin Die confidently declared, "That thing Sixth Brother has, it's not useful. From now on, Third Auntie will treat you well."

·······

"Senior Lin, please don't do this. I don't need money."

Lin Jiang looked at the storage bag in front of him and said to Lin Die. Lin Die's love is rough. She thinks that as an independent cultivator, Lin Jiang must be in need of money. So, inside the bag, there are all things useful for the Building Foundation Period – a complete set of equipment, spirit stones, and elixirs, all there.

"Then what do you need? Third Auntie will buy it for you."

"For now, I don't need anything. I have money."

"Senior Sister Lin, my uncle is really rich. I just asked around, and he has been living well all these years."

At this moment, Cao Ying walked in, looking very upset. After finding out Lin Jiang's alias, she inquired about him and learned that Lin Jiang has been staying near Yunzhong City all these years.

Thirty years, thirty years have passed, and he never came to find her.

Angry, infuriated!

Lin Jiang suddenly felt his scalp tingling. Oh no, he forgot about this.

"Little Ying, actually I've been in seclusion all these years, really, I'm not lying to you. If you inquire about it, you'll definitely find out."

"Is that so? Then do you have time to go to Spring Coming Tower, Baihua Tower, but no time to come see me?"

"Wow, you know that too?"

"Do you think a big establishment like the Yunzhong City brothel can be managed by someone without the support of the two major factions?"

Cao Ying said with a sour face. The most profitable business in Yunzhong City will definitely have people from the two major factions involved. It's just that they won't directly manage the brothel. They will only have shares in it behind the scenes.

"What's this, a brothel? Why don't you learn something else instead of these things?"

Lin Die exploded upon hearing it. So this is the kind of person the men from the old Lin family are.

"Don't hit, don't hit! I just made a mistake that all men in the world make."

Lin Die immediately took action, Lin Jiang hurriedly shouted. Oh no, Third Auntie, I mean, sister is hitting brother!