Chapter 1271: The Seven Star Convergence Talisman
Jiang Chen’s words had a significant impact on his audience.
It was on the same level as when they’d first known of the Pinecrane Pill, the
pill extended the lives of emperors and great emperors. It was an immensely
attractive prospect, since everyone had a limitation on their lifespan.
Without understanding the principles of heaven and earth and
ascending to empyrean rank, one would still become dust at the end of one’s
life. Any past heroism and skill would be rendered useless. Therefore, there’d
been a great deal of attention on the Pinecrane Pill.
The Emperor Supremacy Pill tugged at the crowd’s
heartstrings the same way. Great emperors found it exceedingly difficult to
take any cultivation steps forward. Wasn’t a pill that gave away a free level
in light of that too absurd?
“I have another question, young lord Zhen.” Emperor
Wellspring intoned in a low voice. “The Emperor Supremacy Pill can help an
initial great emperor ascend to mid great emperor very quickly, yes?”
“Yes.” Jiang Chen nodded with certainty. He’d already guessed
what they wanted to ask.
“Then, does it have an effect on people like us? If we’re on
the boundary of supreme and peak great emperor?” The emperor asked.
“Sure, though the degree of the effect is reduced somewhat.
If a supreme great emperor were to take a thousand years to reach peak great
emperor realm, perhaps they would need only three or six hundred instead. It
depends on one’s foundations, and there’s a bit of luck involved as well, so
there’s some variation in the reduction of time needed. However, it’d be
halving the time on average.” Jiang Chen’s explanation was rather objective,
but his words sounded sweeter than an empyrean lyre.
“Inconceivable, simply inconceivable! Can there be a pill
like that beneath the heavens? We are all well-dwelling frogs after all. How
much heritage did the ancients leave us? And now, less than a hundredth
remains. It’s a shame for all human cultivators everywhere!” Emperor Wellspring
was a bit overexcited.
Han Qianzhan and Su Huanzhen couldn’t speak. They looked at
Jiang Chen with deep uncertainty. They had no words to describe the extent of
his bizarre abilities.
Master Dong Ye struggled to form a coherent sentence. Jiang
Chen’s revelation stunned him; he wanted to refute the youth’s claim, but
didn’t have the sufficient pill dao knowledge to do so. A genius that had the
Pinecrane Pill in his possession wasn’t someone he had the right to question,
anyway.
“Young lord Zhen. If the Heavencloud Ganoderma really can
refine a pill like that, it can definitely be considered a third place supreme
rank treasure. But actually, isn’t it worthy of first place?” The mistress of
the Celestial Cicada Court suddenly piped up.
“Not so.” Jiang Chen shook his head. “First, the Ganoderma
isn’t quite mature enough. Given its present age and spirit energy within, we
can make two Emperor Supremacy Pills from it at most, and the pills would be
mediocre quality to boot. More importantly, there’s a very real risk for
failure in the attempt to do so.”
He’d carefully compared the three supreme rank treasures. If
the Heavencloud Ganoderma exceeded three thousand years, it was definitely
possible to make three to six Emperor Supremacy Pills of very high quality out
of it. Furthermore, his chance of being able to do so was almost certain. The
Ganoderma would then be worthy of second place, past the talisman.
As for the jade token, the young man felt that to be first
place regardless. It contained a cultivation technique and could therefore be
passed on perpetually.
“Alright, I concede the point.” Emperor Wellspring smiled.
“What about the second-place talisman, young lord Zhen? What are its origins,
and what can it do?”
“This is a talisman from ancient times. If I’m correct, it’s
a defensive talisman of sorts. It can shield its holder from attacks of various
attributes: metal, wood, water, fire, earth, wind, and lightning. Take a look!
There are seven runes upon the talisman, which means it can be used to defend
against seven attacks. It’s a treasure almost perfect at accomplishing its
primary purpose. The defense it erects is immensely powerful. It would be hard
for even you, our honored guests, to break.”
“What?” Everyone was stupefied once more.
“That’s right.” Jiang Chen nodded confidently. “Many large
sects refined such talismans in ancient times for their best geniuses. Battles
back then were significantly more dangerous than nowadays. There were no
barriers between the races either. Anyone from any race could freely enter and
exit the other races’ domains. There was no such thing as a Boundary Stele. The
war between the races was brutal, direct, and cruel. These talismans were
extremely valuable to the geniuses for whom they were made.”
“Oh, only the strongest factions could afford talismans like
this, of course,” the young man added. “The smaller ones couldn’t really
sustain the cost.”
“Ah, young lord Zhen is as good as an encyclopedia. Are you
a master of ancient matters too? What was the talisman called back then, if I
may ask?”
“The Seven Star Convergence Talisman.” Jiang Chen’s answer
was clean and crisp.
By now, even Master Dong Ye’s remaining hint of disapproval
was entirely gone. The young lord had won him over. Regardless of whether the
young man said was fact or not, he was clearly drawing his words from a source.
He certainly didn’t seem to be making things up on the spot. “This monk yields
to your wisdom, young lord Zhen.”
“We yield.” The audience nodded in concurrence with the
Buddhist master.
“Hahaha, we’ve only been paying attention to the three
supreme rank treasures. We need to identify the first grade treasures too, yes?
The crowd won’t be convinced otherwise.” Han Qianzhan laughed.
The audience nodded a second time. They’d been fixated only
on the supreme rank treasures too. The first and second grade treasures still
needed description and justification. Since this was a treasure identification
segment, all the better treasures needed at least a passing diagnosis. At
minimum it had to be enough to sate their owners’ curiosities.
There was no contest about the qualities of the first and
second grade treasures whatsoever. The five judges completed their identification
duties effortlessly through smooth cooperation, finishing after about four
hours from event start. The wandering cultivators were all shifting restlessly
after the prolonged process.
The dignitaries in the guest area were also eagerly
anticipating the results since the judges were taking a long time to reemerge.
There were guesses all over that there had been one or multiple amazing
discoveries.
Amidst the speculation, Jiang Chen and company finally came
out of the identification area. Millions of eyes focused simultaneously upon
them in the next instant. The audience’s faces were rapt with anticipation and
inquiry.
A serene smile hung perpetually upon Jiang Chen’s face. The
other four were excited, shocked, and overjoyed to varying degrees. Their expressions
were all generally a bit exaggerated.
“Can it be? Has some incredible treasure really been
discovered?” The heavyweights seated in the guest area were enticed by the
possibility – a very real one, judging from the faces of the judges.
Many had come for the Dragon and Tiger Meet in order to get
a more thorough understanding of Veluriyam Capital’s strength. They wanted to
see whether young lord Zhen was as monstrous as the rumors made him out to be.
The treasure identification segment alone was enough to titillate them. Their
attentions had been unknowingly drawn back to the Meet itself.
Facing his audience’s expectant looks head on, Jiang Chen
laughed. “Thank you for your passionate support. The four seniors and I took a
long time perusing and classifying all your treasures, but we’ve finally come
to consensus on everything given to us. Unfortunately, the fourth and fifth
grade treasures will be returned directly to their owners. We gave a rather
basic result for the third grade treasures, going into a bit more detail for
the second grade ones. The first grade treasures we received are very seriously
expounded upon.
“However, what really surprised us was that there were three
treasures surpassing the first grade classification. We couldn’t let an
injustice stand, so we temporarily came up with an additional supreme rank
rating. The three treasures in this grade thoroughly surpass each and every
first grade treasure. I must congratulate the three lucky owners ahead of time.
Anyone with just one of these treasures sits on a king’s ransom!”
Like a match to kindling, Jiang Chen’s speech set the crowd
aflame. There were supreme rank treasures above first grade ones? This
surpassed everyone’s expectations. The million plus wandering cultivators
boiled over with shock and conversation.
The wandering cultivator world leaned on the poorer side.
Most wandering cultivators were poor as a rule. What little they did have
amounted to nothing before the wealth of a sect.
It was rare for a wandering cultivator to have anything good
at all. Thus, everyone had thought that finding a few first grade treasures
would be the most that would happen. Supreme rank treasures? What were those?
“Calm yourselves, everyone.” Jiang Chen pressed both hands
downward. “I understand your excitement. Your rush to know what the three
supreme rank treasures are is understandable. Alas, we must withhold their
announcement temporarily. The fifth, fourth, and third grade treasures will be
listed first to offer some preliminary information. Nothing listed among these
three grades is particularly valuable. Third grade treasures are acceptable,
but we must apologize in advance for owners of lower grade treasures. After
that, we will come to the second and first grade treasures.”
The wandering cultivators gradually quieted down. After
hearing the astonishing news, they became even more apprehensive about what was
to come. What kind of treasure was worthy of the supreme rank moniker?
“Before I proceed to the results, I must emphasize the
following once more. Protecting your privacy is our utmost concern. No news of
the owners’ identities will leak out. If anyone is concerned still, valuable
treasures may be submitted to us for auction or transaction immediately
afterward.”
This was a necessary assertion. Treasure identification was
only the Meet’s first segment. There were many more to come, all designed to
reap a bounty of reputation and goodwill on Veluriyam Capital’s behalf.
Chapter 1272: Open Display of Treasures
This was Jiang Chen’s foremost goal for the Dragon and Tiger
Meet. He wanted to build up interest in Veluriyam Capital as well as increase
the Meet’s attractiveness and influence in the process. How, exactly? Through
the contents of the gathering, of course. Sifting treasure from trash was a
great segment.
Curiosity was one of the most abundant emotions in the world
of martial dao. The pursuit of treasure was one of the strongest desires that
martial cultivators could harbor.
“We all trust you, young lord Zhen. Announce the results!”
“Who can dispute your integrity, young lord Zhen?”
“Veluriyam Capital is a gold standard. If we didn’t have
faith in it, we wouldn’t have come here.” The wandering cultivators below all
started shouting. They were chomping at their bits with impatience.
Jiang Chen smiled cheerfully back at them. “It’s hard to
show three thousand treasures one by one. We’ll put all the fifth grade
treasures together. If it belongs to you, you’ll be able to easily feel it. The
same will be done for the fourth grade treasures.
“There’ll be simple explanations for third grade treasures.
We’ll do fifteen waves of ten. You’ll see pretty clearly if your treasure is
among these. Much more weight will be given to the second and first grade
treasures. Oh, and the supreme ones too. There are fifty-two second grade
treasures here with us, which isn’t a small number.
“As for first grade treasures, we have twenty-one of them. A
little surprising to be sure, but not unwelcome. The three supreme rank
treasures, on the other hand, are truly lucky finds. We will introduce second
grade treasures and above one by one, which should make it even more evident
where your treasure lies… in both senses of the word.”
Jiang Chen went on with his exposition. “Alright, it’s time
to show which treasures are fifth and fourth grade. This’ll be very quick, so
keep your eyes sharp. Well, I suppose it’s fine even if you miss it. If your
treasure isn’t in any of the higher grades, then it must have been fourth or
fifth, right?”
There were loud guffaws from the wandering cultivators all
around. The interest of the giants in the guest area had been piqued as well.
Three supreme rank treasures? This was a tremendous source of attraction for
them.
“Third Sectmaster, how come it feels like those four seniors
are all willing to let young lord Zhen have the spotlight?” Over at the Moon
God Sect, Holy Maiden Xu Shan couldn’t help but ask her master.
The third sect head looked thoughtful. “Xu Shan, the main
sect head allowed me to bring you here to fulfill your wish. You shouldn’t sink
deeper into an unrealistic daydream.”
Xu Shan’s face reddened. “Please don’t make fun of me,
master.”
“I’m not making fun of you. I’m just worried that you’ll
chase after a waterside reflection and waste your Reverse Yin Yang Bloodline.”
The girl sighed softly but uttered no reply. She felt
something inexplicable in her heart. She’d been telling herself all this time
that she cared about young lord Zhen’s affairs because she was grateful to him.
That was the only reason, and nothing else.
But was that really true? That was something she often asked
herself, late at night. She didn’t dare ponder it further though. Fear and
indecision plagued her heart whenever she tried.
The representative from the Ninesuns Sky Sect had feelings
that were just as mixed about the animated young lord on stage. “We should be
thankful that our grudge isn’t too serious with that young man,” he sighed
internally. “Though we’re eating a loss by pursuing diplomacy, it may be a
blessing for us. A legendary youth like him will unquestionably take the entire
human domain by storm when he grows up. A hundred thousand years might go by
without a character such as him being born. It would be exceedingly unwise for
us to maintain hostilities, given everything we’ve seen. And will see, I’ll
bet.”
Thinking this, he looked around the guest area. Out of the
eight first grade sects, Eternal Celestial Capital was the only one absent.
What did that signify?
Young lord Zhen was baring his fangs. He had fully broken
with Eternal Celestial Capital, exiling its entire entourage from the city.
The twelfth grade inspector from the Ninesuns Sky Sect,
Shangguan Yanqing, was honestly relieved. “When I go back,” he decided, “I have
to strongly urge the sect head to reprimand any would-be troublemakers against
the young lord here. The venerated elder Chen Lei especially. I know he was Cao
Jing’s master, but it would be absolutely unwise. Angering Veluriyam’s new
leader will only lead the Ninesuns Sky Sect to certain destruction.”
A strong feeling about the veracity of that last sentiment
intensified in his heart. Shangguan Yanqing’s opinion of the youth rose higher
and higher.
The Empyrean River Palace’s representative was both envious
and annoyed at young lord Zhen’s popularity. Amongst the eight first grade
sects, it was the only one that was absolutely intimate with Pillfire City. In
fact, it wasn’t entirely wrong to call it a subordinate faction.
The Palace was the weakest amongst its peers. In a sense, it
was a faction that had been forcibly elevated to its current position through
Pillfire City’s efforts alone. Therefore, its loyalty to its superior city was
unshakable.
Thus, young lord Zhen’s tremendous gain in publicity greatly
bothered the Empyrean River Palace’s representative. The Dragon and Tiger Meet
was attracting more and more people and activity! Alas, he had to keep his
negativity all to himself.
Four out of six wandering cultivator titans had appeared at
the Meet. There were another additional twenty to thirty wandering cultivator
great emperors in general. These were definitely much larger numbers than
Pillfire City’s Pill-Martial Summit! This fact brought deep shame to the
established pill superpower.
Before now, Veluriyam Capital’s influence couldn’t even
begin to compare to Pillfire City’s. It was also supposed to be worse without
Emperor Peafowl. And yet, young lord Zhen had caused such a large ruckus that
Pillfire City was being overwhelmed.
The Heavenly Dragon Sect’s representative was stoic
throughout. He seemed to look at the stage with the attitude of a cold-eyed
observer. The sect prided itself upon its purity of bloodline, and maintained a
front of aloofness everywhere. Its members trusted in the strength of their
blood alone. External treasures interested them very little.
That was how they presented themselves to the outside world
anyways. No sect or faction could ever be indifferent toward truly priceless
treasures. That rang as true for the Heavenly Dragon Sect as it did for
everyone else.
The fifth and fourth grade treasures were presented very
swiftly.
“For the sake of privacy, we will return all your treasures
according to your registrations,” said Jiang Chen. “No need to panic or rush.
Next, the third grade treasures.”
The third grade treasures were a bit weightier. Well, for
the wandering cultivators that owned them.
The treasures were rapidly displayed in batches of ten. Some
were pleased with their treasure being classified as third grade, while others
were the opposite. After the entire grade finished, the wandering cultivators
that hadn’t had their treasures displayed yet became inwardly ecstatic. If
their treasure hadn’t showed up yet, that meant that it was at least second
grade, perhaps higher!
A few began to anticipate a first grade announcement.
Supreme rank wasn’t out of the realm of possibility, either!
Most wandering cultivators didn’t excel at cultivation and
lacked even a rudimentary ability to identify their treasures. They usually
weren’t brave enough to venture using an identification service either, lest
they lose their life. Most didn’t have a clue how good their own treasures
were. They suffered in ambiguity and ignorance, having little recourse
otherwise.
Second grade treasures numbered fifty-two in total. Each
announced treasure was accompanied with a reasonably detailed description of
its effects, explaining to the audience why it was second grade.
After some time spent reciting the list, the second grade
treasures came to an end as well.
“A round of compliments to the owners of second grade
treasures. They’re certainly worth more than a pretty stone. I must offer even
greater congratulations to the owners of the treasures to come. Each and every
one of the following treasures has tremendous value. Anyone who owns one should
consider himself lucky!”
The cultivators who hadn’t seen their treasures on display
yet were elated. They made sure to keep their expressions as blank as possible
though. They were understandably concerned that unwanted attention from nearby
onlookers would put them into danger. No matter how much their hearts burst
with joy, they had to feign nonchalance. Thankfully, this amount of
self-restraint came to cultivators naturally, whether they were wandering
cultivators or not.
“Next, we will present the twenty-one first grade treasures.
Each treasure may be considered equivalent to sky rank and holds enormous
monetary worth.
“Number one, the Violetcloud Windcloak. Its wearer enjoys a
speed increase of sixty to seventy percent. Astute usage allows doubling of
speed. More than sufficient to enjoy a first grade classification.
“Number two, redsage gold. A precious metal used in refining
other treasures…
“Number three…”
Jiang Chen went into excruciating detail about each and
every treasure’s origins, usage, and name. His explanations sounded
well-researched, reasonable, and convincing.
The treasure owners were euphoric with each word they heard.
Some were secretly relieved that they hadn’t just thoughtlessly parted with
their treasure beforehand. If they had, they would’ve lost out big time. They
were grateful for coming to Veluriyam Capital. For coming to the Dragon and
Tiger Meet. And, of course, for the smart and charitable young lord Zhen. Their
goodwill toward the youth and his city shot way up.
Even the wandering cultivators that hadn’t submitted any
treasures felt educated by the proceedings. They’d learned something today, and
that was more than worth their while.
Jiang Chen was patient with all twenty-one treasures,
showing them all off to the crowd to see.
“As you’ve seen, all twenty-one of the first grade treasures
have been displayed. Again, congratulations to the lucky owners. Oh, and one
more thing to put your minds at ease: we five judges came to a consensus about
all of the treasures just now. You have our assurance that the identification
is completely accurate.” The youth’s last statement stroked the already-excited
treasure owners to new heights.
Chapter 1273: Shock, Utter Shock!
The first grade treasures having been shown, there were only
the three supreme rank treasures remaining. They were the crowning jewels of
this segment and their display was of paramount importance.
“I’m sure the last three treasures are also the most
eye-catching ones.” Veluriyam Capital’s young lord smiled. “I’d like to offer
my formal congratulations to their respective owners. In my opinion, any one of
these three far surpasses any first grade treasure in value!
“Of course, I think it’s natural that we didn’t quite come
to a complete consensus regarding the treasures. I’ll go into the details now.”
He explained the differences between Master Dong Ye’s opinion and his own. The
two had agreed upon this beforehand. The public had a right to know.
“Master Dong Ye, please go ahead. You deserve equal time out
of fairness.” Jiang Chen wasn’t at all dictatorial, instead deferring to the
Buddhist monk.
The master was the most junior amongst the four guests. He
found it inappropriate to open his mouth just yet, glancing toward his three
more senior peers. As the oldest, Emperor Wellspring was the first to speak up.
“As the one with the thickest skin here, allow me to step up
first,” he laughed. “I know that all three of these are superb treasures, but young
lord Zhen was the one who told me exactly why for each. I trust his wisdom and
honesty. That’s all.”
Han Qianzhan nodded. “I concur with every point.
Su Huanzhen smiled as well. “I have faith in the keenness of
the young lord’s eye.”
It was Master Dong Ye’s turn. He let out a soft sigh first.
“The other three fellow daoists have the gist of it. I trust young lord Zhen’s
ability and judgment as well. I don’t contest the second place treasure’s
position, and I’ve been enlightened as to why third place is so valuable. As
for first place… I have absolutely no idea, so I must reserve any decision on
it. However, young lord Zhen has already said that he’ll shoulder any
associated responsibility. If there’s any fault in his identification, he is
willing to personally purchase it for the price that a treasure with equal
valuation would fetch.”
Master Dong Ye was an honest man and disclosed everything
about their discussion prior.
“Just as Master Dong Ye has said,” Jiang Chen smiled. “It’s
normal for there to be debate about supreme rank treasures. To demonstrate the
resolution behind my judgment, I’ll be responsible for any problem that arises
as a result of possible misidentification. I’m willing to buy or trade for all
three of these treasures for a equivalent price. Before we come to that, let’s
get into what the three treasures actually are.”
There was very little doubt that young lord Zhen knew his
stuff. Emperor Wellspring, Han Qianzhan, and Su Huanzhen were all prominent
individuals who supported his conclusion. In light of that, there should be no
issue whatsoever with the veracity of his claims. Though Master Dong Ye was
verbally stubborn, his clueless but approving attitude was evident to his
listeners nevertheless.
“We trust you, young lord Zhen. Show us the treasures!”
“Yeah, you’ve tantalized us long enough!”
“I can’t believe that a wandering cultivator would have a
supreme rank treasure. I’d really like to see what it is!”
“Isn’t that right? Show them to us, quick! Maybe I’ll have a
treasure just like it, ahahaha!”
The last comment wasn’t entirely baseless. Only a portion of
the attendees had submitted their unknown treasures for identification. There
were many left over who either hadn’t managed to register or were simply
unwilling.
Because the latter group was tremendously large, there was
no question that a few more existed who carried priceless things.
Some of the guests were just as fascinated as the wandering
cultivators. The three treasures were sure to be incomparably expensive and
valuable. There was no reason for young lord Zhen to hype them up so much
otherwise.
The first grade treasures were already exciting enough. How
much better would the supreme rank ones be? Absolutely everyone craned their
necks in anticipation.
“Supreme rank treasure, third place. This is a sky rank
spirit herb called the Heavencloud Ganoderma. It’s unique among other spirit
herbs of its rank for being the main material to a pill called the Emperor
Supremacy Pill. What is the Emperor Supremacy Pill, you might ask? A pill that
allows great emperors to ascend one level for free and therefore possesses
value beyond compare. Unfortunately, the Ganoderma isn’t quite mature enough,
so it’s slightly lacking in terms of quality. The likelihood of successfully
refining it into pills is much lower, and only two pills can come from it at
most.” Jiang Chen brandished the spirit herb in question to the crowd.
The owner of the Ganoderma felt his body shiver helplessly.
He was an earth sage realm cultivator, having obtained the herb purely out of
happenstance. It had been with him for several decades now.
He hadn’t been blind to the possibility that it was a sky
rank spirit herb – or failing that, an earth rank spirit herb at least.
Originally, he’d even planned to get it identified after reaching emperor
realm. He’d only come to the Dragon and Tiger Meet after hearing about a
treasure identification segment. He hadn’t expected to receive such an amazing
surprise gift out of it! His herb wasn’t just any sky rank spirit herb, but
many times pricier besides!
Smiling, Jiang Chen showed the Heavencloud Ganoderma all
around the square. “As a baseline, the Ganoderma should be three to five times
the price of a regular sky rank spirit herb. With a needy buyer, it is
reasonable to hypothesize that six or seven times is entirely reasonable, too.
Therefore, I offer a toast to the spirit herb’s owner. You have riches rivaling
many great emperors.”
In the cultivation world, sky rank spirit herbs held
inestimable value. Even great emperor realm experts didn’t necessarily have a
large supply of them. Possessing just a few was already remarkable enough.
The price of the Heavencloud Ganoderma rivaled five normal
sky rank spirit herbs, giving credence to Jiang Chen’s comment. The crowd
boiled over in wonder and praise.
Similarly, the guest area mirrored Emperor Wellspring and
Master Dong Ye’s astonishment in their reactions. They’d never heard of the
Emperor Supremacy Pill before. Did such a miraculous pill really exist?
Jiang Chen had no intention whatsoever of explaining the
finer points of the Emperor Supremacy Pill. Master Dong Ye, Emperor Wellspring,
and the others would spread the information for him naturally. He didn’t need
to spill all the beans outright.
After brandishing it once more around his audience, Jiang
Chen picked up the Seven Star Convergence Talisman.
“Second place for supreme rank treasures belongs to this
talisman. This is a treasure passed down from ancient times, one of the best
defensive charms available only for the most well-off. This is the Seven Star
Convergence Talisman, and it has seven runes to protect against the seven
attributes of metal, wood, water, fire, earth, wind, and lightning. An
all-around superb shield, reliable against even the strongest great emperor.”
Jiang Chen held the talisman aloft. “A toast to the
cultivator who owns this talisman, please! Your treasure is even more valuable
than the Heavencloud Ganoderma. If you’re a strong cultivator, I advise you to
keep it for yourself. If you are a cultivator below emperor realm, I recommend
trading away or selling it instead. The amount of resources you’ll receive in
exchange will easily bolster your progress into emperor realm – perhaps even
great emperor as well.”
Helpful as always, the young lord gave an overview of what
the Seven Star Convergence Talisman was roughly worth. The owner of the
talisman was a wandering cultivator as well, but emperor realm. His face was
completely emotionless at hearing Jiang Chen’s breakdown, but his heart was
leaping with joy.
He was unquestionably one of the luckiest participants of
the event. Just like the owner of the Ganoderma, he knew the talisman was
pretty useful, but had no idea whatsoever as to the extent of the item’s value.
He had attempted to get it identified several times, resulting in failure every
time. He didn’t expect for Veluriyam’s young lord Zhen to be the one to
succeed! And it was such a potent treasure, to boot. What a haul!
Waves of astonishment, admiration, and jealousy rippled
through the crowd. Some were quite envious of the results being pronounced, and
others very regretful that they hadn’t entered this segment.
Meanwhile, the heavyweights in the guest area were all
looking at the talisman covetously. This was a treasure! If in their hands, it
would be a life-saving treasure! It would gift them two lives in a fight
against an expert.
What a pity that Veluriyam Capital was so principled and
refused to announce the owner of this talisman. Wouldn’t it be nice if they
could get their hands on it?
The ordinary guests aside, even Han Qianzhan and Su Huanzhen
had been enticed by such thoughts, however fleetingly. The same was true for a
man as composed as Emperor Wellspring.
After everyone had finished taking in the weight of the
talisman, Jiang Chen finally put it down, smiling. “I’m sure the last treasure
is the one that you’re all looking forward to the most.”
He raised the first-place jade slip high into the air. “This
jade slip contains an ancient heritage. The text contained within is an immensely
powerful cultivation method, recorded in prehistoric writing. Its worth dwarfs
the current first grade sects’ signature methods!
“There is one small flaw, however. How exactly prehistoric
writing is deciphered has been lost to time. The owner will find that decoding
the jade slip is essentially impossible.” The young man smiled crookedly. “If
efforts to interpret the jade slip are unsuccessful, the owner is welcome to
flip the treasure to me. I'll trade for or purchase it for an appropriate
price. Of course, you are welcome to try using it yourself. I won’t force your
hand or reveal your secret.”
Jiang Chen wasn’t interested in sinister plotting. He had a
surfeit of valuable methods. In general, he had a much bigger need for
resources. He carried plenty of methods within his brain and could produce a
large batch on demand.
The method in the jade slip was somewhat exceptional in
certain ways, however. The jade slip and the method formed a harmonious whole,
meaning that the value of the whole was more than the sum of its parts. He
wasn’t in a position to declare any of this though. For the sake of fairness,
he had to disclose the jade slip’s true value.
His words caused mass confusion through the entire audience,
the heavyweights in the guest section included. An ancient method? More
powerful than current first grade sects’ signature methods? That was too absurd
for description!
Chapter 1274: The Uproar Caused By the Jade Token
Jiang Chen’s words were exceedingly inflammatory and lit the
atmosphere on fire. A signature method that surpassed even that of a first rank
sect’s! This would absolutely cause a furious storm of blood and gore if word
got out.
The lucky owner had a completely blank mind at the moment.
He’d never thought that a random jade token, one in which he’d thought was
trash, would have this kind of value! He almost fainted dead away. Managing to
stay on his feet, he flushed beet red instead. This bizarre reaction drew the
attention of the wandering cultivators around him.
One of the cultivators next to him couldn’t resist. “Old
Tan, what's with you?”
Many knew the lucky owner. He was Tan Zhi, a wandering
cultivator who’d grown in prominence in recent years. He was only half step
emperor realm, but that actually placed him amongst the upper echelon of
wandering cultivators. However, his cultivation level was still wholly unfit
for this treasure.
“Old Tan, look at how worked up you are! Is that token
yours?”
“N-no… it’s not mine.” Tan Zhi denied with a reddened face.
“Hahaha, come off of it. Look at how nervous you are, you're
definitely guilty!”
“Tan Zhi, not bad huh! You stuck with a damn low profile and
kept this treasure to yourself!” The other wandering cultivators around them
started up good-natured jibing. Everyone who knew Tan Zhilan raised their
voices in loud comments and jokes, craving nothing short of the good show of
complete chaos.
Jiang Chen didn’t pay attention to the limited area of
disturbance and continued. “We’d previously said that the transaction of the
Seven Star Convergence Talisman would enable its owner to ascend to the emperor
realm. Well, if whoever possesses the token uses it well, he can absolutely use
it to found a new sect or faction. The fortunes he possesses isn’t limited to
just him alone. Immense congratulations to its holder!”
The cultivators around Tan Zhi were becoming rowdier and
rowdier.
“Tan Zhi, just admit it! It’s yours isn't it!”
“Why would you be so worked up if it's not yours? Hahaha,
Tan Zhi you showed yourself up!”
“Tan Zhi, let’s make a deal. Give me the token. The price is
totally negotiable.”
The disturbance started growing in scale as the knot of
wandering cultivators grew increasingly forceful, sending more eyeballs Tan
Zhi’s way. Everyone in the area now had heard that the owner of the talisman
had been revealed and all wanted to see just who the lucky bastard was.
The wandering cultivator in question had frozen where he
was. The overwhelming clamor around him was drowning him and his brain was
seizing up. He flailed valiantly to save himself. “Everyone, please don’t
pressure me like this. This token has nothing to do with me. You’re putting my
life in danger like this!”
“Heh heh, alright. Are you prepared to swear that it's not
yours? If you dare, we’ll believe you. If you don't dare to, then it’s
obviously yours.”
“Yeah Tan Zhi, finders keepers. Don't forget us old friends
now that you've made it rich!”
“That’s right, Tan Zhi, that's how it should be!”
The intrusion spread and grew, reaching the stage. Jiang
Chen frowned and called upon his dragon roar art. “Order!”
The art thundered through the wandering cultivators, making
their blood forth and boil. Stunned senseless, they looked fearfully at the young
lord on the stage.
“For what do you make disorder for?” Jiang Chen snorted
coldly. “My Veluriyam Capital is holding the Dragon and Tiger Meet and is
honored by the presence of all of these honored guests. Yet there you are,
creating a ruckus. Are you purposefully trying to disturb the proceedings?”
“Not at all, we wouldn't dare!”
“Please quell your anger, young lord Zhen. We’re agitated
because we think that we've found the owner of the jade token.”
“That’s right, young lord Zhen! Please don’t be angry. We
didn't mean to give offense.” The wandering cultivators were worried they’d be
thrown out after angering the young lord. They quickly hunkered down on
themselves, presenting a small and inoffensive front.
“Blasphemy! We’ve kept the owner of the token completely
confidential, how would their name link? Don’t you try to sway the crowd with
your heresy!” Jiang Chen was quite displeased.
“It’s not a speculation, young lord Zhen. He… he revealed it
himself.” Everyone's eyes shot towards Tan Zhi.
Tan Zhi had recovered by now and raised a cupped fist salute
to the stage. “Young lord Zhen, please look into this deeply. These fellows are
slandering me and dumped this on me.”
Jiang Chen nodded. “All of you, don’t guess randomly like
this. This has to do with someone’s life and shouldn’t be treated frivolously.”
“But we're not making things up, we have a real basis for
what we say! He doesn't dare swear an oath and he was very worked up just now
when you said the token was better than the signature move of a first rank
sect.”
“Yeah, he did it himself. It’s nothing to do with us!” The
wandering cultivators were all wily fellows and completely shifted the blame
away from themselves.
Tan Zhi had an exceedingly ugly expression on his face. As
he noted the countless gazes locked onto him, he knew that he’d never be able
to wash himself clean of this, no matter what he did.
The world of wandering cultivators was an exceedingly cruel
one. Even if he really wasn’t the owner of the token, he would be the target of
many once he left the gathering. He suddenly felt an upwelling of harsh
ruefulness. He truly regretted that one moment of emotional outburst. Just a
single moment had been enough to out him.
With the situation now, all of his protestations were
useless. When it came to the experts, they’d rather kill a thousand in error
than let one target off the hook. Tan Zhi suddenly made up his mind and called
out loudly, “Young lord Zhen, this jade token’s mine!”
He actually leapt out of the crowd with his declaration. He
knew that he’d been exposed and that there was no further use in hiding. He’d
be targeted no matter what.
Jiang Chen blinked and then frowned. “Don’t worry, I’ll have
my men escort you out later. Change your name and identity after you leave.” He
too could tell that this wandering cultivator was likely the token’s owner.
Tan Zhi smiled wryly, an utterly bleak look in his eyes. He
shook his head. “Young lord Zhen, I've heard much about your person. I
travelled all the way to Veluriyam Capital this time also because I admire your
reputation. Even if I do change my name and identity, I still won’t be able to
vie with all of the wandering cultivators in the world. Therefore, I have a
favor to ask.”
Jiang Chen was moved by this response. “Please, go ahead.”
For some inexplicable reason, the young lord empathized with the wandering
cultivator’s circumstances. There’s something about his tone and eyes…
“I’m not afraid, but there is still much I can do and so my
journey can’t end here. Therefore, I’m willing to offer this token to the young
lord in return for protection and the teachings of what’s within.”
The crowd burst into a clamorous uproar at this. This was
wholly unexpected even for Jiang Chen. But upon more careful thought, this was
indeed the smartest decision that Tan Zhi could make now.
If the wandering cultivator left under these circumstances,
he’d be doing so with a bright-red bullseye painted on his back. Throwing
himself on the mercy of Veluriyam Capital was actually a very smart decision.
It would ensure his own safety and make certain that he’d learn whatever’s
inside.
As Jiang Chen pondered, someone called out from the guest
area. “Young lord Zhen, how about giving him to my Heavenly Dragon Sect if you
don’t take him in?”
“Haha, if he’s being given away to anyone, it’d be our Great
Yu Skysword Sect first! When would it be your turn first?” Han Qianzhan laughed
loudly next to Jiang Chen.
“Friend, the Empyrean River Palace is willing to give you an
elder seat,” came a stunning pronouncement.
“Tan Zhi, consider our Celestial Cicada Court.” Su Huanzhen
smiled as well.
The Sublime Chord Temple didn’t like to play things that
blatantly. Master Dong Yue resisted his impulse and didn’t say a word.
Meanwhile, the third sectmaster of the Moon God Sect also refrained due to
owing Veluriyam Capital a favor to being with. The Ninesuns Sky Sect kept mum
out of wariness that they’d anger Jiang Chen.
The young lord smiled easily when he saw how enthusiastic
everyone was headhunting the wandering cultivator. “Everyone, you’re all guests
here and I won’t claim everything for myself. You’ll all have your fair chances
as well. I won’t object to whatever sect he wishes to join. However, the caveat
is that you must be able to guarantee his safety and can’t burn the bridge
after crossing it. Don’t offer to recruit him if you can’t meet these two
conditions. Also, you must be able to swear to these points as well. I won’t
agree otherwise. After all, I validated the value of this token and so I have a
certain degree of responsibility for his safety.”
These words were responsible and rational. There wasn’t
anything that anyone could say against them. It was just like he’d said, but
what was young lord Zhen playing at, trying to act all dapper with his youth?
Still, his bearing evoked respect and admiration. At the end of the day, he was
still being fair, even if it was possibly an act.
Jiang Chen looked at the wandering cultivator. “Tan Zhi,
don’t be in a rush to make a decision. Think carefully on it. There are many
first rank sects apart from Veluriyam Capital here. Join whichever one you
think suits you most. I promise that they’ll make good on their word.”
Tan Zhi showed no hesitation. “I’ve already made up my mind
to join Veluriyam Capital. I only trust you, young lord Zhen. You also said
that it’s ancient text on the token, so the other sects may not have people who
recognize it. You recognize it, so you’re my only choice.”
The sect representatives were depressed by the wandering
cultivator’s attitude, but there was nothing much they could do about it. It
was true, who would be able to distill the method from the token if they couldn’t
even recognize the writing?
Neither Master Dong Yue of the Sublime Chord Temple, Han
Qianzhan of the Great Yu Skysword Sect, Su Huanzhen of the Celestial Cicada
Court, nor Emperor Wellspring of the six great wandering titans had been able
to recognize the token. It was easy enough to extrapolate that the other sect
representatives would fail as well. Thus is made sense that Tan Zhi had chosen
young lord Zhen.
Han Qianzhan smiled ruefully. “Young lord Zhen, I really do
envy you. The strong fail at nothing. This is personal charisma and something
that can’t the wished for!”
“I too am a bit envious. Ai!” Su Huanzhen shook her head.
The other sects sighed and moped. The young lord may be
young and appeared genteel, but he was something else when he actually took
action. He hadn’t done much to make Tan Zhi completely loyal to him. Not only
was this charisma, but even more so ability!
Chapter 1275: The Heavenly Dragon Sects Demands
Jiang Chen didn’t put on airs after Tan Zhilian chose him.
In actuality, no one would’ve believed him even if he’d spoken the truth that
he wasn’t much interested in the token. He’d only listed it as number one of
the paramount rank treasures out of fairness. But, since Tan Zhi wasn’t about
to choose anyone else, there was no reason for him to draw the wandering
cultivator’s ire by refusing.
The young lord nodded. “Since you trust me, Tan Zhi, I will
give you the entire price of the jade token. May the heavens smite me if I fail
to do so!”
His straightforwardness won the wandering cultivators’
respect. There was applause all around.
Jiang Chen himself remained impassive, pushing both hands
downward. “I’d like to offer some advice to the wandering cultivator friends
that exposed Tan Zhi, here. It’s not a good habit to kick someone when he’s
down.”
The culprits felt their faces redden. They couldn’t refute
the accusation at all.
The young lord saluted with cupped fist. “This is it for the
first day’s treasure identification segment. The next three days will be free
time to trade or transact. I’ll still be present during this time and I invite
the seniors here to do the same. If you have something you’d like a second
opinion on, feel free to find me. I will consult to the best of my ability.
“After those three days is the auction segment, which will
only last one day. If you have something you’d like to put up for auction, you
can leave it with Veluriyam Capital. We will auction the Pinecrane Pill at that
time as well, as a token of thanks for everyone’s kind attendance.
“After that, I will host a three day open lecture on pill
dao. After the lectures, you’ll have a chance to ask a senior from Myriad Abyss
Island your questions about martial dao. Unfortunately, experts from there
prefer mystery and secrecy, so there won’t be the chance for too many
questions. Still, anyone who does have the right to ask will receive an answer
they’ll be satisfied with.”
Jiang Chen meticulously planned out the entire Dragon and
Tiger Meet. Each segment linked to the last, and each was equally stimulating
to the people’s interests.
He firmly believed that Veluriyam Capital’s appeal and
reputation would enjoy a significant increase after the Meet concluded. It
would become a real hub of activity for the Upper Eight Regions. It wouldn’t
necessarily beat Pillfire City straight away, but the gap would be considerably
narrowed.
“Finally, after all those events have concluded, we will
come to the Dragon and Tiger Meet’s closing ceremonies. At that time, I’d like
to reveal a few more details about my plans for the pill dao academy here in
Veluriyam. I recommend you act sooner rather than later if you’d like to
auction something or get a treasure privately identified. The auction process
needs prep time. If you’re late, you’ll miss the registration.” Having
completed his speech, he looked toward Emperor Wellspring and the others.
“Would anyone like to add anything?”
“Our job here is already done,” chuckled Emperor Wellspring.
“We eagerly await the more exciting segments that are to come. It seems that
you’ve devoted a lot of effort to sprucing up the Dragon and Tiger Meet, young
lord Zhen. Other factions have done similar things to each segment in the past,
but you’ve gathered them up all into one event. Plus, there’s more than enough
excitement to match. The treasure identification segment alone has been a real
eye-opener for me. If I may, how often do you plan on holding this Meet?”
“Daoist Hui,” smiled Han Qianzhan, “are you impatient for
the next one already?”
“I approve a great deal of these high quality events,”
replied the emperor seriously. “More importantly, young lord Zhen is a
principled man who is willing to protect the wandering cultivators’ bottom
line. That makes him very different in this regard from some factions, who are
interested only in ripping them off.” Emperor Wellspring was speaking nothing
but the truth.
Wandering cultivators were generally at a disadvantage all
over the world of martial dao, whether at an exhibition, auction, or open
marketplaces. They had very little bargaining power and clout almost
everywhere. Even if they weren’t outright robbed of their treasures, they would
often still suffer oppression and maltreatment. That was why Emperor Wellspring
lamented.
Young lord Zhen’s actions at the Dragon and Tiger Meet
protected wandering cultivators’ interests. The treasure identification segment
alone was enough to see that.
The emperor knew that young lord Zhen wanted to improve his
impression and reputation with this demographic, but the youth’s abilities and
respect for wandering cultivators were both undeniable. At least there were no
concerns about suffering a loss from transacting with a party like him.
In fact, Emperor Wellspring felt like he was the one taking
advantage of the young man. The Pinecrane Pill presently in his possession felt
especially undeserving; he didn’t believe he’d done a tenth of what such a
miraculous pill deserved. Young lord Zhen is an honest man. Or at least, he
doesn’t care for taking advantage of wandering cultivators for personal gain.
And just like that, the first day was over. All of the
wandering cultivators were left wanting for more. The things they’d witnessed
today informed them more fully of young lord Zhen’s strength and bearing.
Many thought that he was trying to buy their goodwill and
praise, but other factions didn’t do even that much. Instead, their blood was
openly feasted upon. Young lord Zhen was the image of compassion in comparison,
even if he was just trying to build a good name for himself.
“Old Brother Mo, I must trouble you to take care of Tan Zhi.
Take him back to the young lord residence. I’m worried that there will be
people after him.” Jiang Chen instructed his old friend.
“Alright.” Mo Wushuang’s response was to the point.
Knowing who the old great emperor was, Tan Zhi was very
grateful. “I cannot thank you enough for your kindness, young lord Zhen.”
“Let’s go. You’ve joined up with young lord Zhen, so you’re
with us now. No need for excessive courtesy.” Mo Wushuang chuckled, taking a
slight interest in the younger man.
The wandering cultivator had been extremely decisive after
being put under pressure, which was a mark of remarkable character. His current
level as a half-step emperor realm cultivator belied his future achievements.
Given time, greatness was assured.
After the event was wrapped and cleaned up, all of
Veluriyam’s great emperors rushed up to Jiang Chen, saluting him with cupped
fists. “Young lord Zhen, today’s event was really successful. The treasure identification
segment was marvelous to watch. There were a lot of treasures. I guess
wandering cultivators aren’t as poor as we thought they were after all, eh?”
“There have been countless treasures lost since the ancient
times,” Jiang Chen smiled. “It’s natural for far more treasures to exist beyond
our imagination.”
“Ah, that’s right. I forgot to congratulate you, young lord
Zhen,” Emperor Coiling Dragon laughed. “Our friend Tan Zhi’s jade token has a
method stronger than first rank sects’ signature method? That’s pretty
amazing.”
“Fortune has smiled upon us today,” Emperor Mountaincrush
laughed as well. There was a wave of compliments offered to the youth.
Jiang Chen maintained a constant faint smile throughout.
“The method belongs to Tan Zhi, everyone. You should congratulate him instead.”
“Haha, Tan Zhi is part of Sacred Peafowl Mountain now. We’re
all family.” Everyone chuckled this time. The first rank sects’ representatives
came over one by one as well.
“Could we borrow you for a moment, young lord Zhen?” The man
at the very front was the Heavenly Dragon Sect’s third in command. His name was
Long Baxiang, also known as Emperor Dragontyrant.
“Emperor Dragontyrant, is there anything you need?” Jiang
Chen’s smile was unchanged from earlier.
“I hear you have a contracted spirit beast, correct? A true
dragon?” Long Baxiang asked with a smile.
“Yes.” Jiang Chen immediately knew what the other person
wanted.
“Young lord Zhen, I’m a straightforward man, so I’ll get
straight to the point. Are you willing to trade your true dragon over to the
Heavenly Dragon Sect?” Long Baxiang’s eyes lit up.
Jiang Chen shook his head. “Unfortunately not. My
apologies.”
Are you kidding? Trade away a true dragon to them? Even if
he was willing, was the Heavenly Dragon Sect even capable of controlling the
dragon? Was Long Xiaoxuan willing to accept his new associates? The Heavenly
Dragon Sect styled itself as a sect with a dragon bloodline from ancient times,
but that was a thing of the past.
They wanted to take Long Xiaoxuan to increase the strength
of their bloodline? A nice enough plan, but Jiang Chen wasn’t going to accept
such a proposition.
“Why not discuss it a bit further with us, young lord Zhen?
I doubt you’ll be able to bring the full power of the true dragon to bear. Name
any price you like. We will seriously consider it, no matter how exorbitant you
think it may be.” Long Baxiang wasn’t going to give up so easily. He knew very
well what a true dragon meant to the Heavenly Dragon Sect.
It wasn’t an exaggeration to say that a true dragon would
allow the sect to leap above all its current peers. After the hypothetical
boost, it could likely rival Veluriyam Capital in strength. The Heavenly Dragon
Sect prided itself upon being a sect of dragon bloodline cultivators. A true
dragon would certainly intensify the object of their pride.
“There is nothing to discuss,” Jiang Chen smiled faintly.
“There’s no need to mention it further, Emperor Dragontyrant.”
“Don’t be so brusque, young lord Zhen! We have many secret
methods to quicken a true dragon’s bloodline, allowing its cultivation to increase
at top speed. You can’t possibly offer the same opportunity. How about joint
possession? It’ll be a win-win situation, yes?” Long Baxiang tried to motivate
the stubborn youth.
“I have other matters to attend to, Emperor Dragontyrant.
Please excuse me.” Jiang Chen didn’t want to be badgered about the topic
anymore. Sell Long Xiaoxuan? He’d never considered such a thing.
Long Xiaoxuan was like a brother to him. He couldn’t just
trade a brother away, or somehow ‘share’ his ‘possession.’ Jiang Chen would be
mad to give such ideas serious contemplation.
Long Baxiang was a little upset at being refused by the
young man. He glared at Jiang Chen’s departing figure, anger burning within his
heart. “So what if he has a few skills? He’s not showing me any respect! Does
he think he’ll be able to shoulder the burden of the entire Veluriyam Capital?
Emperor Peafowl isn’t around any more. I suppose he likes it the hard way,
hmm?!”
The emperor hadn’t given up, and neither would his sect. A
true dragon was of paramount importance to his sect. It would be the key to the
sect’s future dominance over the Upper Eight Regions. With enough time, every
faction in the eight territories could be swept with ease. The sect would be
able to command universal tribute.
“Still, the fact that he admitted to having a true dragon so
quickly was surprising. I thought he would outright deny that he had one. I’m
glad he did though. As long as it exists, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to
get our hands on it in the future.” Long Baxiang thought viciously. Dastardly
plans had already begun to form in his mind.
Chapter 1276: The Owner of the Heavencloud Ganoderma
Jiang Chen refused Long Baxiang’s rude request outright.
“You must beware of the Heavenly Dragon Sect, young lord.” The
elder Jiao brother, Jiao Yun, spoke up. Normally, one would expect a statement
like that to have come from Emperor Peerless. However, the two Jiao brothers
had become Jiang Chen’s most loyal confidantes. Now harboring a healthy respect
for the young lord, they protected him constantly.
“We’ve dealt with many sects during our travels,” Jiao Yun
continued in a low voice. “We have at least a rudimentary understanding of the
Heavenly Dragon Sect’s tendencies. People from this sect don’t rest until they
reach their goal. They’re not as high profile as the Ninesuns Sky Sect, but
they’re far more vicious once they have an objective in mind. Out of the eight
first rank sects in the Upper Eight Regions, the Heavenly Dragon Sect is the
thorniest.”
Jiao Feng nodded as well. “Absolutely. The Heavenly Dragon
Sect is not to be underestimated.”
Jiang Chen didn’t know very much about the Heavenly Dragon
Sect, but he knew how to read people. Long Baxiang didn’t look like an
easygoing man. However, there was no possibility that the young lord would ever
turn Long Xiaoxuan over to him, either.
That was a matter of principle. The young lord was now one
of the most important people in Veluriyam Capital. The Peafowl Guard paved the
way for him, and the city’s great emperors roughly flanked him; both gestures
were for his protection.
In no time at all, his retinue made its way back to Sacred
Peafowl Mountain.
At the young lord residence, Huang’er and the others were
waiting at the door.
Jiang Chen was very cautious. In order to avoid unforeseen
circumstances, he hadn’t brought everyone to the wandering cultivator meet.
Aside from Emperor Peerless, the Jiao and Geng brothers, and other powerful
experts like the four monarchs, Jiang Chen had only taken Pill King Bu, Pill
King Lu Feng, and Lin Yanyu.
The others had stayed behind for the most part. Newcomer Tan
Zhi hung behind everyone else, following Mo Wushuang very closely. He looked a
little restrained and lost.
“Don’t worry,” Mo Wushuang chuckled. “Everyone here is
family. Since the young lord has decided to take you in and brought you back to
the residence, he won’t mistreat you.”
Tan Zhi nodded. Before he was spoken to, he’d kept his eyes
mostly to himself. After being comforted, his heart settled down a little, and
he began to curiously scan the residence’s surroundings.
His gaze circled the place, pausing fleetingly upon the
welcome party. Suddenly, his look became strangely incredulous. He was so
surprised that he couldn’t shift his eyes away.
“What’s up?” Emperor Peerless had a stronger consciousness
than most, and easily sensed the nearby cultivator’s peculiarity.
Tan Zhi’s shoulders shook. “Maybe my eyes deceived me,” he
sighed softly.
Emperor Peerless chuckled. “Those here in the young lord
residence have come from all over the world. Perhaps you do know some people
here already. Let’s head on in.”
Nodding hurriedly in agreement, Tan Zhi followed very
carefully behind Emperor Peerless. However, his eyes darted back to the
reception crowd from time to time, as if there was someone he cared a lot about
there.
“Gouyu, this wandering cultivator friend is named Tan Zhi,”
Jiang Chen introduced. “He’ll be one of us from now on, so please look after
him. Try to settle him in near Emperor Peerless, so my old brother can take him
around a bit more to familiarize himself with his new home.”
After glancing at Tan Zhi, Gouyu inclined her head
earnestly.
“Senior brother, I’m sure the wandering cultivator meet will
be very exciting. I’d really like to take a look for myself.” A handsome young
daoist spoke up - Mu Gaoqi.
“I was worried that there’d be some unexpected surprise on
the first day, Gaoqi. That’s why I asked everyone to stay at home. For the
marketplace tomorrow, I’ll definitely take you to see the sights. How can I
leave you out of the proceedings with how spectacular your pill dao potential
is?” Jiang Chen smiled.
“Fantastic,” Mu Gaoqi was overjoyed. “Can I go with my
master?”
“Of course.”
A pretty figure edged out from the rear of the crowd.
“Senior brother,” a girl’s voice muttered, “you can’t be biased like that.
Don’t just take Gaoqi! Hui’er wants to go as well.”
The girl was none other than Ling Hui’er.
“Yes, yes, everyone can go.” Jiang Chen waved a hand.
“Hehe, I know senior brother wouldn’t refuse!” The
enthusiasm on Ling Hui’er’s face was palpable.
There was a collective roar of laughter before the combined
entourage headed further inside.
Standing behind Mo Wushuang still, Tan Zhi was almost
electrified by the sight of Mu Gaoqi and Ling Hui’er. He could barely move his
feet. Mu Gaoqi, Ling Hui’er…
Countless thoughts flashed through his mind. His lips
trembled. He felt the impulse to speak up several times, but his reason suppressed
it each time. At last, Tan Zhi’s eyes settled on Jiang Chen with some
confusion. Suddenly, a possibility crept into his heart, sending a slight spasm
through his body. A warm current flowed through him, filling him with a vigor
that almost made him shout aloud. If he wasn’t harboring worries still, he
would’ve pounced forward to ask details.
Nearby the younger wandering cultivator, Mo Wushuang felt
each acute change in Tan Zhi’s psyche. However, he chose not to point out
anything this time, instead looking thoughtfully at the cultivator many years
his junior.
“Young lord Zhen, Emperor Coiling Dragon and young master Ji
San are here to visit. They have a wandering cultivator with them.” There was a
report from outside.
“Oh? Send them in.”
Having come so soon after their departure moments earlier,
the former clan lord’s arrival likely concerned something important. He had
brought a wandering cultivator with him, hmm? Can it be…?
A thought popped into Jiang Chen’s head, but he didn’t
pursue it. He would soon know exactly why they’d come anyways.
Emperor Coiling Dragon and the wandering cultivator made
their way into the residence rather quickly. Young master Ji san was with them.
“Young lord Zhen, this wandering cultivator friend found us
in order to speak to you personally. He says he’s the owner of the Heavencloud
Ganoderma. We didn’t dare leave him waiting after hearing that, so we came
straight away.” Emperor Coiling Dragon was very responsible with his
explanation.
Jiang Chen had guessed the very same. The wandering
cultivator in question was likely either the owner of the Ganoderma or the
Seven Star Convergence Talisman.
“What should I call you, friend?” Veluriyam’s young lord was
very amiable. He could see that the man’s cultivation level was even lower than
Tan Zhi’s.
Tan Zhi was half-step emperor, but this man was only earth
sage realm. He would be considered a reasonable expert in a more remote place
like the Myriad Domain, but the Upper Eight Regions demoted him to one of the
small fry.
“My… my name is Cheng Qian. H-hail, young lord Zhen.” The
wandering cultivator stuttered a little. He’d felt little pressure looking up
at young lord Zhen from within a crowd, but seeing the youth right in front of
him was something else. Nearby were men many times his senior: Emperor
Peerless, the Jiao brothers, and others. No matter how unbridled Cheng Qian was
ordinarily, he felt a mountain of pressure bearing down upon him.
Jiang Chen smiled indulgently. “Everyone, take a seat,” he
instructed those around him.
Having said this, he turned back to Cheng Qian kindly.
“You’re Cheng Qian, right? Try to relax. Sacred Peafowl Mountain has always
been gracious toward the wandering cultivator world. Look at Emperor Peerless
and the Jiao brothers. They are your seniors, no? No one will give you a hard
time here, haha. Take a seat.”
Beads of sweat formed on the earth sage realm cultivator’s
forehead. He protested several times out of embarrassment. How could he sit
before so many great emperor realm experts? Any seat he did take would burn his
rear.
Jiang Chen was helpless before Cheng Qian’s self-inflicted
tenseness. “Old Brother Mo, you’re a wandering cultivator,” he turned to his
old brother. “Can you soothe his emotions a bit for me?”
Emperor Peerless smiled. “Since it’s been said already,
Cheng Qian, why not take a seat? I guarantee that Sacred Peafowl Mountain will
not lay a finger on you. If you own the Heavencloud Ganoderma, I will
personally ensure that you receive your deserving portion.”
The Jiao brothers laughed as well. “Young lord Zhen has seen
countless treasures. Are you worried that he’ll rob you of yours?”
The young lord smiled good-naturedly in turn. “Cheng Qian,
if you wanted to find me, why didn’t you come to me straight away? What’s with
the detour to Emperor Coiling Dragon?”
“I was worried that I would… would be tailed by someone, if
I came to find you,” Cheng Qian looked somewhat bashful. “So I thought a detour
would be better.”
Jiang Chen offered the sheepish cultivator some cheerful
applause to boost his confidence. “Well done. Those were wise actions. Tell me,
what would you like me to help you with? You can be open about it. Everyone
here will bear witness for you.”
Cheng Qian puffed himself up for several moments before he
managed to blurt out the following words. “I… I wanted to trade the Heavencloud
Ganoderma with you, young lord Zhen.”
That was within the realm of expectation. Of course the
wandering cultivator had come to trade or auction off his treasure. It was
either one or the other.
Jiang Chen nodded. “Sounds good. What would you like from
me?”
What Cheng Qian did next was quite funny. He scratched his
head, but couldn’t think of anything to say. He hadn’t even thought up what he
really wanted. He’d had the Heavencloud Ganoderma for a long time, and had
always viewed it as a prized possession, not expecting its actual value to be
beyond his wildest dreams.
Even after the event, his brain was still rather mushy. He
did have one instinctual thought, however: he needed to get rid of the spirit
herb as quickly as possible. Otherwise, he could very well befall the same fate
as Tan Zhi. Unwanted exposure was a very real problem.
“Don’t be nervous, Cheng Qian. Speak your mind.” Emperor
Peerless consoled sympathetically. As a senior in the wandering cultivator
world, the emperor tried to take care of his juniors as much as he could. It
wasn’t any day of the week that a wandering cultivator came upon a valuable
treasure.
The earth sage was still flustered. “Actually… I, uh, I
haven’t really thought of anything yet. Young lord Zhen is a generous and
considerate man, so I’m sure that he’ll treat me well. I… I didn’t think the
Heavencloud Ganoderma would be so expensive. Happiness came upon me so quickly
that… that, my brain can’t keep up. So… so… I’d like young lord Zhen to give me
some pointers about what’s best for me...” His face reddened after stammering
all this.
Everyone broke out into good-natured laughter. It was
evident to any onlooker that Cheng Qian really was in a tough spot. He was so
stunned by his fortune that he couldn’t think straight any more. For an earth
sage realm wandering cultivator, the Heavencloud Ganoderma was really too
expensive to take in. Cheng Qian’s reaction was perfectly normal.
Chapter 1277: The Transaction For The Heavencloud Ganoderma
Cheng Qian felt a bit embarrassed himself. He scratched his
head sheepishly, constrained by the awkward situation.
Emperor Peerless found the younger man’s silliness both
endearing and sad. He saw a shadow of his past self in the man as well. In his
younger days, Mo Wushuang had also felt this kind of helplessness. Without the
opportunities that he’d chanced upon later on, he would never have gotten to
where he was today. The sight of Cheng Qian touched him just like Gu Xintang
had, back in the Tilted Moon Region.
Though Mo Wushuang appeared rough around the edges, he was
actually a very sensitive man and easily became emotional.
“Young lord Zhen, the world is a much crueler place for
wandering cultivators. Cheng Qian happening upon this spirit herb means that
he’s one of the lucky ones. Since he’s come so sincerely to trade the Ganoderma
with us, do you mind helping him a bit?”
Emperor Peerless was now making a more personal request on
his junior’s behalf. The junior wandering cultivator had never thought that his
great senior would do this. The gesture greatly warmed Cheng Qian’s heart.
Jiang Chen inclined his head slightly. “Even if Emperor
Peerless hadn’t interceded, Cheng Qian, there’s no reason for me to refuse your
very reasonable request. Tell me, what kind of need do you have?”
Cheng Qian thought about it a little. “I think, if… if I can
try breaking through to emperor realm just once in my life, I’d laugh myself
awake at night.”
For most wandering cultivators, emperor realm was a place
forever beyond their grasp. Even earth sage realm, like Cheng Qian was
currently, was an impossible task for many.
The world of martial dao was a harsh place with each level
was more difficult than the last. In this world, emperor realm was already a
rather high peak. Countless cultivators found that it was essentially
unreachable. Only a very few could enjoy the scenery from the top.
Evidently, Cheng Qian wasn’t a part of this latter group. He
could only look up longingly from below. Though he was already an earth sage
realm cultivator, Cheng Qian knew himself better than anybody. He wasn’t
particularly old, but he’d dug out most of his martial dao potential.
Without a special opportunity or three, he would at most get
to sky sage realm in this life. In light of this, Cheng Qian had mustered up
all his courage to make his request when faced with this rare opportunity.
Getting to emperor realm was his life’s greatest wish.
Seeing that young lord Zhen’s prolonged silence, Cheng Qian
began to panic. “Young lord Zhen, I know my demand is a bit unreasonable. I… I
only wanted a chance at breaking through to emperor realm. It’s fine even if I
fail.”
He hurried to explain himself, worried that he’d be thrown
out.
Jiang Chen didn’t reply to the man directly. Instead, he
turned toward Emperor Peerless and the Jiao brothers with a serene smile.
“Gentlemen, how do you feel about Cheng Qian’s potential?”
Mo Wushuang was brutally honest. “Optimistically? I think
ninth level sage realm is his limit.
Jiao Yun nodded. “I agree. He doesn’t have much more
potential left.”
“Did you hear that, Cheng Qian?” Jiang Chen laughed.
The earth sage realm cultivator looked quite down. Hearing
the wandering great emperors’ analysis painted a rather grim future for him.
“I spoke out of line, young lord Zhen.” Cheng Qian conceded
sadly.
“Haha, that’s what anyone would think from an ordinary
perspective. However, if I am to trade with you, I must fulfill your wish in
earnest – for the sake of the Heavencloud Ganoderma, if nothing else. How can I
honestly accept your treasure otherwise?”
Jiang Chen’s declaration was absolutely stunning. Everyone
tried to guess at what he meant. Did young lord Zhen have another way?
Emperor Peerless suddenly thought of something, his gaze
brightening.
“Cheng Qian, you should thank young lord Zhen.” Out of
nowhere, the emperor slapped his thigh.
Cheng Qian was astonished, but he was clever enough to
understand what that meant: perhaps there was something more to things! He
knelt on one knee without hesitation. “Thank you so much for your charity and
grace, young lord Zhen.”
Jiang Chen flashed an easy smile. “Old Brother Mo, you
really are one of the six titans, huh? You always take extra care of our
wandering cultivator friends. Cheng Qian, I’ll grant you an opportunity that
gives you the chance to break through to emperor realm. I’ll also give you some
pills to help you in your attempt. In exchange, Sacred Peafowl Mountain will
take the Heavencloud Ganoderma. Do you have any problems with this deal?”
“None whatsoever,” Cheng Qian denied hastily.
“Even so, I’ve benefited far more than you in this deal,”
Jiang Chen smiled. “How about this. When you get to emperor realm someday, come
to Sacred Peafowl Mountain again. I’ll give you another opportunity. How does
that sound to you?”
Though the young lord wasn’t specific about what he was
going to give, a promise from both Sacred Peafowl Mountain and Veluriyam
Capital was nothing to be taken lightly.
“Truly, young lord Zhen, a thousand thanks for your generosity
and benevolence. I’ll never forget it as long as I live!” These words came from
the bottom of Cheng Qian’s heart.
“I don’t think I’m being overly generous or benevolent,
really. Your ownership of the Heavencloud Ganoderma is the origin of your luck.
I’ve always put an emphasis on fair dealing, so I can’t exactly take advantage
of you now, can I?” Jiang Chen chuckled before continuing.
“Spend a few days here. I’ll have your accommodations
arranged. If you’re concerned about your safety, I’ll ask Old Brother Mo to
look after you personally. Aside from that, here’s a batch of Heroic Sage
Pills, a single Sage Smile Pill, and a selection of sage realm cultivation
resources. Take them. They should help immensely in your road to emperor
realm.”
Jiang Chen had no shortage of Heroic Sage Pills. Back in his
Mt. Rippling Mirage days, he’d gotten his hands on a huge number of Sage
Fledgling Grass specimens. A ton of Heroic Sage Pills had come of that lucky
find. These pills were extremely beneficial to cultivation in the sage realm.
Though their effects became less pronounced later on, they were still
exceptionally important for wandering cultivators such as Cheng Qian.
The Sage Smile Pills used the Radiant Celestial Grass as its
main material. Jiang Chen also had an equally sizable assortment of said pill.
The pill granted Cheng Qian a free level in the sage realm.
Thus, those three words instantly got Cheng Qian’s
attention. His hands shivered as he accepted Jiang Chen’s items. Currently, he
was peak earth sage realm at the sixth level. He’d been stuck at earth sage
realm’s peak for many years now. He hadn’t been able to try for sky sage realm
all this time.
The Sage Smile Pill was surely the impetus that would allow
him to finally get there! Once he was there, he would be on an entirely
different level. It would be the platform that allowed him to touch the
threshold of emperor realm!
The excitement on Cheng Qian’s face made Jiang Chen sigh
with wonder. Wandering cultivators, huh… the things I gave him were fully
traded for with his treasure, but he still feels tremendously grateful for some
reason. Honestly, I’m still the one coming out ahead in this deal after all
that.
The actual value of the Heavencloud Ganoderma was equivalent
to five sky rank spirit herbs. After totaling things up up, the things that
Jiang Chen had given Cheng Qian were worth only one.
The deal wasn’t what made Cheng Qian happy, however. It was
that Jiang Chen was giving him the opportunity to break through to emperor realm.
For cultivators at the extent of their potentials, this was the greatest gift
of all.
From his position, Cheng Qian had made the correct choice.
If he couldn’t improve his strength, the value of the Heavencloud Ganoderma was
meaningless; none of it could really be actualized.
If kept on him, the herb was as good as wasted. If traded
anywhere else, there was no guarantee of making it out with one’s skin intact,
much less making a fair trade. At least with Sacred Peafowl Mountain, there was
no risk of the former. Moreover, the items received in exchanged were
materially useful. In light of that, what was there to be displeased about?
Jiang Chen called for Gouyu once more, notifying her of
Cheng Qian’s temporary stay.
After he saw the wandering cultivator off, everyone around
him saluted with cupped fist. “Congratulations, young lord. The Heavencloud
Ganoderma is finally in deserving hands. There’s no doubt that it would be a
horrendous waste anywhere else.”
Everyone had heard of the intended purpose for the
Heavencloud Ganoderma. The Emperor Supremacy Pill!
No one had heard of such a pill before. Its miraculous
properties were enough to set their hearts aflame. There was also a strong
curiosity about something hitherto unknown.
“Young lord Zhen, can you really refine the Emperor
Supremacy Pill that you spoke about during the treasure identification?”
Emperor Coiling Dragon inquired piously.
Emperor Peerless and the Jiao brothers looked longingly at
the young lord as well, interested in hearing a confident answer.
“The Emperor Supremacy Pill is a real pill.” Jiang Chen was
completely aboveboard with them. “And yes, the Heavencloud Ganoderma is the
main ingredient. It’s all true.”
His audience was overjoyed. Emperor Coiling Dragon
especially so, since he was initial great emperor realm. Presently, he was the
weakest among the great emperors at Sacred Peafowl Mountain. His desire to
increase his strength was more fervent than anyone else’s. Therefore, he
thirsted the most after the Emperor Supremacy Pill’s effects.
“If the Heavencloud Ganoderma was allowed to grow for
another thousand years, it would be worth even more. Alas, it’s a bit on the
young side. If one can be found that’s more than three thousand years old, then
we’ll truly have a perfect cauldron of Emperor Supremacy Pills!” Jiang Chen
felt that it was somewhat of a pity.
Emperor Coiling Dragon slapped his thigh. “If you’ll let me,
young lord Zhen,” he chuckled, “I’d like to reserve an Emperor Supremacy Pill.
The Coiling Dragon clan is willing to pay any price you name.”
Emperor Peerless and the Jiao brothers wanted the pill just
as badly, but it wasn’t appropriate yet for them to ask for one. After all,
they’d followed Jiang Chen for only a short while. On the other hand, Emperor
Coiling Dragon was one of Sacred Peafowl Mountain’s staunchest, direct
supporters.
Furthermore, Emperor Peerless still had the kunpeng
bloodline that Jiang Chen had given him. He had greater goals than the Emperor
Supremacy Pill and didn’t need it nearly as badly as the others. He had set his
eyes on breaking through to empyrean realm instead.
The Jiao brothers genuinely craved the Emperor Supremacy
Pill, but they’d joined up only recently and had already received advice from
Jiang Chen about their martial techniques to boot. They couldn’t work up the
thick skin they needed to open their mouths.
“Of course I can, Emperor Coiling Dragon,” Jiang Chen
laughed. “The Ganoderma isn’t mature enough, so I think I’d only get two pills
out of it. Still, if everything goes perfectly, a third is potentially
possible.”
“Haha, your pill dao prowess is unmatched. I’m sure you’ll
have no problem getting three, young lord!” Emperor Coiling Dragon engaged in
some shameless flattery.
Chapter 1278: Tan Zhis True Identity
Deeper within the young lord residence, Gouyu delegated to
Xue Tong the work of accommodating the newcomers.
As Jiang Chen’s cousin, Xue Tong had remained dedicated and
loyal throughout the years. He had no complaints about being handed Gouyu’s
work. He knew that Gouyu tended to be a bit haughty and was probably concerned
about taking a strange man around by herself in trying to figure out living
quarters. It was no trouble for him to step in on her behalf.
They were within the young lord residence anyway. Their
safety was assured. Furthermore, Tan Zhi didn’t look like a bad guy, though he
did seem a bit out of it. Was it because of nerves from where he was now?
As one of the young lord’s earliest confidants, Xue Tong had
excellent martial dao potential. That, coupled with Jiang Chen’s cultivation of
his abilities over the years had easily brought him into earth sage realm. In
the process, he’d also become experienced enough to deal with a variety of
situations.
“Fellow daoist Tan, I heard that you’ve declared your
allegiance already to the young lord at the wandering cultivator meet. As long
as you’re not planning to two-time us, we’re one family from now on. There’s no
need to be so anxious.” Kindly consoling the apprehensive recruit was the best
course of action at the moment.
Tan Zhi forced out a smile. “Thank you, Brother Xue. You
look rather young.”
“Aside from our seniors, the great emperors, most of us are
pretty young around here,” laughed Jiang Chen’s cousin.
“I see.” Tan Zhi nodded in acknowledgment. “Brother Xue, I’m
new here, so I don’t know all the rules yet. Are there any areas in the young
lord residence that are off-limits?”
“None outright,” Xue Tong chuckled, “but there are a few
unwritten rules. The young lord’s personal area, for one. Also, the female
cultivators’ living spaces are generally barred for most members of the
opposite sex. There are people watching all the important turns though, and
security is pretty tight beneath the surface. As long as you don’t aimlessly
wander, you should be completely fine.”
“So, is it fine if I visit some friends?”
“Of course. Daoist Tan, you have friends in the young lord
residence already?” joked the guardsman.
“I just got here, so I haven’t made any yet,” Tan Zhi
replied. “But there’s plenty of time to make some in the future.”
“Indeed. Everyone here is relatively kind. As long as you’re
not too haughty yourself, of course.”
Tan Zhi nodded and said nothing more.
“Alright, we’re here. This courtyard isn’t too big, but it
should be enough since you’re living alone. You have a good number of neighbors
around here, so feel free to visit when you have the spare time.” Settling Tan
Zhi into his new home, Xue Tong issued a gentle reminder before turning to
leave.
The wandering cultivator was quite satisfied with the space.
As he was about to push open the door, a silver-haired cultivator came out from
a different house a dozen yards away. The old cultivator spotted Xue Tong by
the wayside immediately and smiled in greeting. “Xue Tong, my young friend,
what’re you up to?”
It was none other than Elder Yun Nie, whom Jiang Chen had
rescued from Pillfire City a while back. The elder occasionally made an
appearance overseeing Taiyuan Tower, but often returned to spend time with Mu
Gaoqi.
The residence that Jiang Chen had assigned Mu Gaoqi was very
large.
“Haha, if it isn’t Master Yun! We have a new friend here
that the young lord told me to take care of.” Xue Tong gestured to the
wandering cultivator beside him in introduction. “Daoist Tan, this is Master
Yun. Both he and his disciple are the young lord’s old friends, and his
lordship treats the latter like a brother.”
Jiang Chen’s cousin carried on with the introduction.
“Master Yun, this is Daoist Tan Zhi. He was found to have an extremely valuable
treasure at the wandering cultivator meet. The young lord saw promise in him
immediately and the appreciation turned out to be mutual. That’s why our friend
here joined up with us. Let’s try to make him feel welcome!”
Xue Tong was a smooth talker and deftly avoided mentioning
Tan Zhi’s embarrassing situation. The alternative explanation averted a
potential social gaffe.
“Wonderful, wonderful!” Elder Yun Nie chuckled. “Sacred
Peafowl Mountain is growing stronger by the day. This is truly a testament to
young lord Zhen’s charisma. You’re welcome to have tea with me any time, Daoist
Tan.”
Unfortunately, the wandering cultivator who was being spoken
to could only manage an emotional stare in return. The bleak desolation of the
cruel tides of time could be found in his eyes.
“Daoist Tan?” Elder Yun Nie found the silence a little
off-putting.
Tan Zhi shook himself free of his reverie. “I’m sorry,
Master Yun,” he coughed apologetically. “You reminded me of a past
acquaintance. I lost control of myself there. Please, excuse the discourtesy.”
The cultivator’s genuineness won Elder Yun Nie over. “Not at
all. There is nothing wrong with being sentimental, Daoist Tan.”
“Feel free to chat a bit more, gentlemen,” Xue Tong smiled.
“I have other matters I must attend to. I’ll go on ahead.”
His duties having been completed, there was no more reason for
him to stay.
Elder Yun Nie saluted with cupped fist in farewell before
turning back to Tan Zhi. “Daoist Tan, I have a few errands of my own to attend
to. I must take my leave as well. Shall we share a drink sometime in the near
future at my place?”
Tan Zhi managed a faint smile, but his eyes were stuck upon
the old man. He stayed completely silent for a long while, his gaze unmoving.
From the moment he saw Tan Zhi, Elder Yun Nie had thought
that there was something strange about the man. There was an indescribable
feeling about the way the newcomer looked at him. The elder’s heart trembled.
He felt restless and nervous.
“Friend Tan, am I really that similar to your acquaintance?
I’m, ah, I’m having trouble staying cool beneath your gaze.” Finally, he teased
the man to lighten the mood.
Tan Zhi sighed softly, nuance filling his eyes. “I didn’t
expect Elder Yun Nie from yesteryear’s Regal Pill Palace to ascend to a
position as Veluriyam Capital’s honored guest. Shall I congratulate you, Elder
Yun Nie? Or shall I express sorrow for Regal Pill Palace’s fate?”
His words were a painful lash upon Elder Yun Nie’s face. The
old man’s facial muscles contorted for a moment. He returned an incredulous
look at the stranger, his heart thumping uncontrollably.
“Daoist Tan, you… know who I am?” When the elder spoke
again, it was with a wary tone.
“Not just you. I know who your disciple is as well, the one
that’s so brotherly with the young lord. He’s Mu Gaoqi, yes? Ling Hui’er as
well, and maybe a few others from the Palace, too…” Tan Zhi sounded sour,
though it was hard to tell how much of it was out of grief and indignation.
Elder Yun Nie stumbled. “Who… who are you, really?”
The wandering cultivator broke a tragic smile. “The calamity
that befell the Myriad Domain destroyed both it and its inhabitants utterly.
The sect was crushed and many died with it. The remainder was scattered to the
wind, and one knows not the other. Who do you think I am, Yun Nie?” Tan Zhi’s
voice suddenly changed.
Elder Yun Nie shivered when he heard it. “Palace Head?” he
cried out. Suddenly, he seemed to think of something. “Tan Zhi, Tan Zhi… Dan
Chi... Are you Palace Head Dan Chi?”
Tan Zhi and Dan Chi were extremely similar names. Not quite
homophones, but very close.
Tan Zhi sighed softly, then wiped away the disguise from his
face. His true appearance was revealed. It was none other than the lost palace
head, Dan Chi. His eyes were as bright as they’d always been and his face was
still handsome. However, there was a tinge of frost-white within his hair.
Palace Head Dan Chi wasn’t actually an old man. He was just
over the hundred-year threshold. In the world of martial dao, that was
relatively young. His hoar-tipped head told of the bitterness and suffering
he’d experienced in the years since the sect’s fall.
Elder Yun Nie was paralyzed, possibly by electricity, or
perhaps petrification. He stood unmoving for a long while, his lips quivering
the entire time. Not a single coherent sentence came out of his mouth.
“Palace Head… Palace Head… is it really you?” Surely he was
dreaming.
“Yun Nie. Who would’ve thought that our separation before
the Myriad Grand Ceremony would take so long to bridge once more? Who would’ve
thought… that Myriad Domain would be in pieces, and we would be homeless dogs?”
The palace head found it difficult to control his own emotions.
Elder Yun Nie was brought to tears by what Dan Chi had said.
He rushed forward, clutching tightly at the palace head’s shoulders.
“Palace Head! It really is you! I’m so glad…” Elder Yun Nie
was as excited as could be. “The heavens have shown mercy upon us. You really
are still alive, Palace Head! All of the Palace’s disciples devoted themselves
to continuous self-improvement in order to rebuild the sect. I’ve shouldered
that burden for all these days, but I’ve always felt that my own strength was
insufficient… Truly, it’s wonderful that you’ve appeared before us. The
disciples will be inspired even more when they see you’ve returned. I’m so, so
glad…” Elder Yun Nie was having a hard time remaining articulate.
Palace Head Dan Chi blinked. “The disciples? What, do they
still exist in large numbers still?”
“Yes, there’s a good few of them. A couple dozen at least,
all thanks to Jiang Chen.”
“Jiang Chen?” The palace head looked like he’d just thought
of something, becoming passionate once more.
“Yes. He’s the young lord of Sacred Peafowl Mountain. Young
lord Zhen and Jiang Chen are the very same. Without him, we would be stuck as
menial slaves in servitude, our lives not our own. It was Jiang Chen that cut a
path from the Myriad Domain to Veluriyam Capital in order to rescue a large
group of Regal Pill Palace disciples. After that, he journeyed a long way to
Pillfire City to rescue Mu Gaoqi and I. He’s never stopped reminding us of the
sect’s shameful fall, of the goal of rebuilding the sect. Without him, we
wouldn’t have survived until now.” Elder Yun Nie was genuinely grateful as he
spoke about the youth.
Palace Head Dan Chi’s eyes lit up. “So it really is him…
Young lord Zhen, Jiang Chen… Hahaha, I’ve always known that he was a large fish
in a small pond! I suspected too much, Yun Nie. My years drifting about has
changed my outlook a great deal. When I saw Gaoqi on the way in, I didn’t dare
reveal myself to him. I was worried there was some mistake. But I see, now.
Jiang Chen… Jiang Chen…” The impassive expression that the palace head had held
for so long finally turned into a joyful grin.
All of the dangers and meandering he’d experienced over the
years was worth it.
He had never considered the possibility of seeing his fellow
peers under these current circumstances. He hadn’t expected the calamity to
have left anyone behind it. Palace Head Dan Chi didn’t think that even Jiang
Chen would survive Eternal Celestial Capital’s relentless pursuit.
Yet, despite all the odds against him, the palace head had
never given up. He had kept struggling to survive in the wandering cultivator
world. The jade token obtained through serendipity had brought him an
unexpected miracle.
Chapter 1279: Those of the Regal Pill Palace Gather Again
Come to think of it, his road to here had been filled with
adversity, hardship, and near-death experiences. But the clouds had dispersed
and the sky was clear once more. Palace Head Dan Chi didn’t know what to think.
Happiness had arrived far too quickly and completely. His bottled-up feelings
were finally able to be fully released into the world.
Elder Yun Nie was even more excited than the palace head
himself. He grasped the other man’s arms firmly, as if worried that his
long-lost friend would fly away.
The elder and palace head hadn’t enjoyed a particularly
close relationship in the Palace’s early years. Dan Chi taking over the helm
had led to a massive push toward martial dao. The traditionally important pill
dao was forced to yield its position, and the Herbal Hall its own leading spot
to the Hall of Might.
Jiang Chen’s entrance into Regal Pill Palace had been a
lubricant between Elder Yun Nie and Palace Head Dan Chi, bridging the differences
between them. Eventually, they became united in purpose. The two men had
harbored a common ambition: revitalizing Regal Pill Palace. Alas, the Eternal
Celestial Capital and Great Scarlet Mid Region’s invasion had scattered that to
the wind.
“Yun Nie, that we’ve reunited once more despite every peril…
this means that heaven has watched over Regal Pill Palace. We shouldn’t be so
emotional.” The palace head’s outburst was only temporary. With minutes, he
recovered the composure that suited a sect leader.
“You are right, Palace Head. Heaven watches over Regal Pill
Palace and the Myriad Domain as well.” Elder Yun Nie recovered himself as well
before continuing. “I’ll go inform Jiang Chen of the good news. He deserves to
be brought here at once.”
Palace Head Dan Chi waved a hand. “Yun Nie, we cannot live
in the past. Jiang Chen has distinguished himself as an extraordinary star. He
is both stronger and more eminent than I. It is I who should go meet him.”
Elder Yun Nie considered this for a moment. “You’re right.
We’re both exiles. Without his protection, our very safety would be in
question, much less our prospects of rebuilding the sect.”
“Don’t be so hasty, Yun Nie. Tell me about Jiang Chen’s
experiences these past few years.” Palace Head Dan Chi was worried whether he
and Jiang Chen could interact the way they had all those years ago, given the
disciple’s current status.
The elder did so without a moment of hesitation. He detailed
all minutiae of Jiang Chen’s legendary exploits, emphasizing especially his
careful protection and exhortation of Regal Pill Palace’s former disciples.
Palace Head Dan Chi sighed after he heard all. “He occupies
such a lofty position, yet doesn’t forget his roots. He is a man with an
excellent temperament. Bringing him from the Precious Tree Sect was the best
decision of my life.”
Elder Yun Nie sighed as well. “Absolutely. If it wasn’t for
your keen eye all those years ago – your small kindness to him – Regal Pill
Palace would be just like every other sect in the Myriad Domain. Utterly
destroyed, with no hope of restoration.”
Both men sighed over their past losses.
“Which disciples are here in Veluriyam Capital from the
palace, Yun Nie?” The palace head went on to ask.
“Among the four geniuses of the Sovereign Area, Shen
Qinghong and Nie Chong are both dead. Jun Mobai was an undercover agent from
the Ninesuns Sky Sect. Ling Bi’er is missing. Aside from Jiang Chen, only Mu
Gaoqi, Shen Trifire, Rong Zifeng, Ling Hui’er, Ouyang Chao, and others remain
from the younger generation. Thankfully, they’ve all progressed a great deal
with Jiang Chen’s help.”
Having been specially rescued by Jiang Chen from Pillfire
City, Elder Yun Nie hadn’t expected so many surviving disciples to reside at
Veluriyam Capital.
“Shen Qinghong is dead?” Palace Head Dan Chi shook his head
sadly. “What a shame. The elders who were with me on our breakout attempt are
mostly dead as well.”
The duo exchanged lamented about their prior experiences.
…...
Jiang Chen’s living quarters.
“Elder Yun Nie wishes to see me?” Jiang Chen blinked. What
was the elder here for? It was really late. Did he have something important to
talk about?
He knew how cautious and circumspect the elder was. With
advance knowledge on how busy Jiang Chen would be over the next few days, he
wouldn’t have disturbed the youth without something sufficiently notable.
“Send him in.”
In no time at all, the elder made his way into the room.
“Greetings, young lord Zhen.” He came forward with a
courteous salute.
“No need for such excessive politeness between us, Elder Yun
Nie,” Jiang Chen laughed. “You’re in a rush. Did you have something important
on your mind?”
Elder Yun Nie looked serious. “Yes, there is a very
important matter.” He nodded. “I’ve brought a past acquaintance. Do you have
the time to see him, young lord Zhen?”
“A past acquaintance?” Jiang Chen was a bit taken aback, but
the elder’s quite solemn expression told him that he absolutely had to see who
it was.
“If it’s a past acquaintance,” he smiled, “then we should be
old friends already. Why didn’t you bring him with you, Elder Yun Nie?”
The elder sighed. “This acquaintance is… a bit different.”
“Please, invite him over immediately.”
Elder Yun Nie nodded before turning back out the door. It
wasn’t long before he returned with another person in tow.
“Palace Head Dan Chi?” Jiang Chen thought his eyes were
deceiving him. He hadn’t remotely thought of the possibility of seeing the
palace head here. Experiences from decades ago began to resurface instantly.
A reunion after a long time apart, especially after life-threatening
danger in the interim, meant that both parties had a ton of things to say to
the other. Even Jiang Chen could barely hold back his elation.
Perhaps Palace Head Dan Chi’s cultivation level was
insignificant within the Upper Eight Regions, but that didn’t diminish Jiang
Chen’s respect for him one whit. Without the palace head, he would’ve stuck
around at the Precious Tree Sect for a much longer time, missing out on several
opportunities that had come later.
Therefore, Jiang Chen had always considered Palace Head Dan
Chi as one of his talent scouts. The palace head had been the one to drag the
young man out of relative obscurity.
Most importantly, Jiang Chen saw something special in the
other man. Regardless of martial strength, he’d only seen the quality in a
specific few.
Ye Chonglou from the Precious Tree Sect was one of them,
Veluriyam Capital’s Emperor Peafowl was another. There was a great difference
between their comparative strengths, but they all had a unique aura. Therefore,
Jiang Chen was overjoyed to see Palace Head Dan Chi once more.
After an extended period of greetings, the two parties
finally got into recounting the particulars of their separate ways. Palace Head
Dan Chi had succeeded all those years ago, but found the Palace occupied and
under enemy control upon his return. He chose not to turn himself in, aiming
instead to smash through enemy lines. The sect’s other elders had died one by
one in their noble attempt.
After being forced eventually to split up, Dan Chi survived
only through superhuman perseverance. He outlasted both Eternal Celestial
Capital and the Great Scarlet Mid Region’s chase.
After that, he had changed his name to Tan Zhi, a name with
very strong overtones about his former identity. But Tan Zhi had another layer
to it as well; it was meant to constantly admonish him of the eventual goal to
re-establish the sect. He had chosen the name, lest he be overwhelmed by
prolonged misfortune.
“You’ve suffered greatly all these years, Palace Head Dan
Chi,” Jiang Chen sighed.
“How can the small problems I’ve faced compare to yours?
I’ve heard from Elder Yun Nie what you went through to get here. My greatest
decision in this mortal coil was to dig you out from the Precious Tree Sect,”
the palace head recounted emotionally once more.
“Back at the Regal Pill Palace,” Jiang Chen sighed, “you
treated me with great respect beyond my deserving. It was the least I could do
to repay you and I only did what was my duty. Plus, Eternal Celestial Capital
considers me a stubborn thorn in their side regardless. They would hunt me even
if I didn’t do any of that.”
“The Eternal Celestial Capital is the only first rank sect
absent at the wandering cultivator meet,” Dan Chi suddenly realized something.
“Is your identity known to them already?”
“They sent a saint holy king here to parley, but I refused,”
Jiang Chen affirmed.
Joy and affection filtered into the palace head’s eyes.
Elder Yun Nie was equally excited by those words. They could the young man’s
steel-clad resolve and attitude.
“My friends, though I am Veluriyam Capital’s young lord, and
thus bear a weightier responsibility… rebuilding Regal Pill Palace is still
something that concerns me. I protected the palace’s disciples and rescued Mu
Gaoqi precisely to preserve a spark of the sect’s heritage in order to one day
re-establish it. Now that you’ve appeared once more, sect head, the day of the
palace’s reappearance is not far at hand.” Jiang Chen made a very serious
declaration.
His words inspired both the palace head and the elder. The
speech was more than enough to assuage their worries, giving them genuine hope for
their sect’s tomorrow. If the sect had Veluriyam Capital’s support, what could
Eternal Celestial Capital do? Would it somehow become stronger than Veluriyam
Capital?
“Alas, this old man’s abilities are far too limited,” Elder
Yun Nie lamented. “The road to rebuilding the sect is long and arduous.”
Hardship had advanced the palace head’s cultivation with
blustering speed. He had broken through to half-step emperor realm in only ten
short years.
In the Myriad Domain of yesteryear, this level of cultivation
rivaled the Great Cathedral’s Sacred Elephant family head. However, it wasn’t
nearly enough to re-found an entire sect. Moreover, it was easy to call the
sect reestablished, yet a great deal more effort was required for full
revitalization.
Palace Head Dan Chi’s gaze was burdened by the problems
ahead.
“Young lord Zhen,” he glanced at Jiang Chen. “I said all
those years ago that the Regal Pill Palace will survive any storm, no matter
how chaotic, as long as it had you. Today, less than a tenth of the palace’s
disciples remain and my personal prowess is anemic at best. The way to
restoring Regal Pill Palace is burdensome and challenging. I’d like to humbly
request your assistance in the matter.”
“Please, Palace Head, don’t say this. I too, must do my part
in the Palace’s restoration. In actuality, you have one of the most fundamental
elements to reforming the sect already.” Jiang Chen replied, smiling.
“Oh?” The palace head hesitated.
“An ancient martial method is recorded in that jade token, a
method strong enough to be compared to any first rank sect’s best methods. In
fact, it actually surpasses them in numerous ways. You came upon such a
valuable text as a wandering cultivator, Palace Head. It means that you are far
luckier than the rest. There is no question that the Palace will soar to great
heights in your hands.”
None of this was false. It was a stroke of immense fortune
that the palace head had both survived and received such an amazing find. As
long as he was willing to lie in wait for a time, the ancient method would
ensure there was substance behind his promise.
Chapter 1280: Opening of the Trading Fair
“This absolutely is a blessing of enormous proportions.
Mayhap the disaster that befell us was just a minor obstacle on our path to
great glory. In the end, the sect is to reach end new heights with the palace
head at the helm.”
Elder Yun Nie was someone who placed a lot of stock in the
notion of fortune. He had experienced many things in the past couple of years
and comprehended many theories. When it came to fortune, young lord Zhen was
clearly a person with a great destiny in front of him. Everything he did was
full of surprises. He could turn even the most dismal situations into something
advantageous and procure victories.
However, the most important factor was that the young lord
clearly supported Palace Head Dan Chi. The young lord wasn’t going to use the
opportunity of rebuilding the sect to seize the leadership. He was going to
follow protocol to the letter and return authority to the palace head.
Jiang Chen had been in charge the rebuilding process up to
this point and had delegated responsibilities to Elder Yun Nie. His attitude
changed with the appearance of Dan Chi. It was a wonderful development for the
sect that Jiang Chen was willing to hand over power back to the palace head.
If he’d remained in charge of redevelopment, everyone would
only recall that the young lord of Veluriyam Capital had reconstructed the
Regal Pill Palace. No one would care much about the sect itself. The
connotations would be entirely different if Palace Head Dan Chi was the one
leading the process.
Although Elder Yun Nie had a close relationship with Jiang
Chen, the former still cared about maintaining the traditions, heritage, and
legitimacy of the sect. Even though Jiang Chen was technically a disciple, he’d
been studying under both Regal Pill Palace and Precious Tree Sect at the time.
“Young lord Zhen, are the methods of the ancient past really
that magical?” Palace Head Dan Chi was slightly skeptical.
“Palace Head, only by cultivating it yourself will you know
how true that is. However, this method requires you to reach emperor realm
before you can use it. Only then can you reap its true benefits. You’re wasting
your time otherwise. Thus, your first priority is to reach emperor realm as
quickly as possible.”
Jiang Chen could tell that the palace head was only halfway
there. However, Dan Chi’s martial dao potential was much higher than Cheng
Qian’s. Even if Jiang Chen didn’t help his old benefactor, the palace head
could have broken through to emperor realm on basis of his own merits alone.
“Palace Head, it’s probably best that you don’t reveal your
true identity for now. Why don’t you continue being a wandering cultivator and
remain at the young lord’s residence? Once the Meet concludes, we can start the
mighty feat of rebuilding of the Regal Pill Palace. Myriad Domain has
languished in the hands of petty tyrants for long enough. It’s high time that
we took it back. Furthermore, it’s about time that we collected the debt that
Great Scarlet Mid Region owes.”
Jiang Chen sounded quite remote. He had certain ideas of how
to rebuild the sect; his blueprint was vast. Not only did it include rebuilding
the Regal Pill Palace, but it also included taking back Myriad Domain, and even
annexing the Great Scarlet Mid Region to form an area completely under his
absolute control. That was his true goal.
He needed to bring all of the human territories under his
control before the demons invaded. The race needed to band together as a
cohesive whole. Myriad Domain and Great Scarlet Mid Region were the territories
closest to the demons, particularly Myriad Domain. It was the tip of the
frontlines.
Thus, it was especially important that he had these two
areas in the palm of his hand. He would slowly reveal his ideas to Dan Chi
later. It was too early to go into detail now.
Seeing that the powerful Jiang Chen was completely behind
them, Elder Yun Nie and Palace Head Dan Chi were delighted beyond belief and
headed back to their dwellings.
The rest of the night passed peacefully.
Elder Yun Nie and Dan Chi appeared together at dawn the next
day. The palace head was still dressed like a wandering cultivator. The elder
had a smile on his face. “Young lord Zhen, can I also partake in the
festivities of the Dragon and Tiger Meet?”
“Yes, please enjoy yourselves. Make sure to keep an eye on
your surroundings,” replied the young lord in approval. “Oh right, it’s best if
you don’t tell Gao Qi and the other young disciples what’s changed. I’m afraid
that they won’t be able to conceal things because of their youth.”
The elder laughed. “I’ve already discussed this with the
palace head and we both agree on that point. We can tell everyone after the
Meet concludes.”
“Alright. The day’s about to start, go on ahead.”
General enthusiasm and participation had increased visibly
after viewing countless wonderful treasures and events on the first day. Many
hadn’t brought out their baubles for the first segment. Now that they didn’t
have any doubts, they planned locate young lord Zhen at the trading fair and
ask for an appraisal.
When Jiang Chen arrived at the gathering, he could see that
the size of the crowd had increased by a large amount compared to the previous
day. The excited and charged atmosphere quite pleased him.
“Young lord Zhen, there’s certainly plenty of crouching
tigers and hidden dragons at the gathering. I think that everyone has been
buoyed by the splendid show from yesterday.” Emperor Peerless was also very
cheerful when he sensed the electrifying mood.
“Haha, I wonder how Pillfire’s doing? We’ve gotten a good
kick in this time and slapped their faces harshly!” Emperor Coiling Dragon was
very animated.
Jiang Chen had a steady head on his shoulders and didn’t let
things go to his head. “Everyone should return to their own duties and not
treat anything lightly. The Meet’s just begun. Anything could happen before
it’s ended.”
“Understood!” Everyone went back to their own areas.
Jiang Chen’s appearance caused a stir in the crowd. They
chanted loudly, “Young lord Zhen, young lord Zhen!”
“Young lord Zhen, we want to have another treasure
identification segment!”
“Yeah, have another one!”
The wandering cultivators started clamoring for more,
plainly caught up in the thrill of yesterday. Many of them hadn’t taken action
in a timely manner due to prudence. In the end, they delayed far too long and
missed the window of opportunity entirely.After seeing the multitude of first
grade items yesterday, and the three supreme treasures in particular, many of
them felt that they’d stumbled into a fairytale. Dreams of overnight riches
sprung up in more than a few individuals. They searched themselves for anything
that looked promising, wanting to send them in for appraisal. Although most
knew this was just a fantasy, this was precisely the kind of dream and legend
that was most scarce in their world.
Jiang Chen stood up tall and a slight smile stretched over
his face as he gazed out into the sea of humanity. The crowds extended far to
the back for many kilometers.
“Everyone, calm down please.” He stretched out his hands and
pushed downwards.
The din slowly died down. Soon, no one made a peep. They stared
at Jiang Chen and waited with baited breath to hear what the young lord had to
say. Seeing their eyes full of excitement, he could easily guess what they were
thinking.
Public sentiment can be useful. Jiang Chen was pleased and
knew that he finally had their attention now. “Everyone, we have a strict
schedule to follow for the Dragon and Tiger Meet. It would be very difficult to
alter it. But I can sense your enthusiasm and desires. The following three days
are set aside for free trading sessions. During these three days, the Sacred
Peafowl Mountain will set up three trading districts with some purchase lists
and free item appraisal. However, our time and energy are finite, so we will be
filtering the requests. If you’re unable to pass the tests, then you have no
qualifications to enter these districts.”
He paused for a second before continuing, “It will be the
same as the previous treasure identification event. The Sacred Peafowl Mountain
will be as fair and impartial as before. We will not exaggerate or make falsely
low appraisals. No matter what type of treasure it is, we will give a fair
pronouncement.
“Apart from this, the other Veluriyam great emperors will
all be opening trading districts. In addition, the first rank sects will also
have the qualifications to open transaction areas. At the same time, we will
also open a special large trading district just for great emperors.”
Jiang Chen had done all of this to win people’s hearts.
After hearing his speech, many of the first class sects and
the emperor realm experts were all surprised by his shrewd methods. Their
admiration for him stepped up a notch. Young lord Zhen is clearly not a simple
individual. This was beautifully done.
He continued, “Other than these special areas, there is also
the largest trading district reserved for free trades. Within this section, all
of our wandering cultivator friends can carry out whatever transactions they
wish. However, please remember that the rules must be followed. Trades should
be conducted fairly and no one is allowed to force purchases or sales. Shameful
methods are strictly prohibited. Should anyone break these regulations, then
they will be considered individuals who are no long welcomed within the Dragon
and Tiger Meet. We will immediately expel any troublemakers. Should any
malicious plots arise, we will immediately send to stamp them out.”
No one felt he was bluffing. Within the Veluriyam Capital,
the young lord indeed had the qualifications to carry out such a threat. As the
young lord of Sacred Peafowl Mountain with a large group of great emperors,
Jiang Chen had multitudes of troops beneath his hand. The capital was fully
under his control.
“Alright, everyone should make their preparations. We will
start to set up our trading districts. The trading fair will now begin!”
Sacred Peafowl Mountain had three sections available, with
the most important district naturally under Jiang Chen’s authority. As for the
two remaining areas, Emperor Peerless was responsible for one and the four
monarchs in charge of the other.
The responsibility of administering the qualification tests
were given to Pill Kings Bu and Lu Feng, as well as Mu Gaoqi and Lin Yanyu.
This was also a tempering trial for the latter two.
With stringent qualification rules, much of the pressure was
off Jiang Chen’s shoulders. After all, most who wanted him to assess their
so-called ‘treasures’ couldn’t even past the first test.
Even if they qualified after the first round, they would
likely be stuck with the four monarchs and Emperor Peerless. It was impossible
that all wandering cultivators had some priceless treasure.
There were occasionally a couple of objects that even
Emperor Peerless couldn’t identify, which meant they came to Jiang Chen, who
would promptly accurate dissect their value.
Over half a day had passed for the trading fair and Jiang
Chen still hadn’t come across even one object that made his heart race.
