2: Chapter 2 First Taste of Sweetness

Night deepened, and the oil lamp in the dilapidated shack flickered with a faint light.

Xiao Yun and Liu Ruyan sat side by side on the edge of the bed, both with their heads lowered, fingers twisting their hems unconsciously. In the simple room, there was only one bed. Usually, Xiao Yun slept with her younger brother, Xiao Hu, while Lin Wan slept on the floor. Now that Liu Ruyan was here, sleeping arrangements became a problem.

Of course, Lin Wan knew that from tonight on, no one would be sleeping on the floor.

"There is no need to be nervous." Lin Wan's voice broke the silence. He walked to the table, sat down, poured two bowls of clear water, and pushed them toward the two women. "Since we have become Dao Companions, we are Family. Although my cultivation is currently low, since I have promised to protect you, I will do my best to fulfill it."

He paused, looked at the two women, and said sincerely, "I know you may have grievances or unwillingness in your hearts. In this world, it is not easy for women to survive, especially those without support. But I can guarantee that following me, at the very least, you will not have to worry about food, clothing, or your safety day after day. If there is an Opportunity in the future, I will do my best to assist your cultivation. Even with mortal bodies, you will be able to strengthen your health and prolong your lives."

These words were both reassurance and laying his cards on the table.

Xiao Yun raised her head. Her eyes were still red, but her gaze had calmed down significantly. She was a person who accepted her fate, and meeting someone like Lin Wan, who was at least gentle on the surface and willing to take care of her brother, was already a stroke of great fortune. She nodded gently: "Big Brother Lin, I trust you."

Liu Ruyan was much more complex. She came from a branch of a small Family, had seen the world, and was more thoughtful. She could sense a confidence and calmness in Lin Wan that didn't match his cultivation level, as well as that powerful aura that had suddenly erupted and then been restrained just now... This Senior Brother Lin was definitely not as simple as he appeared on the surface.

Moreover, the basic volume of the "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" he gave her—she had just flipped through it briefly—was, although simple, a legitimate Cultivation Technique. It was much better than her own aimless groping.

Thinking of her own weak Spiritual Root, the ruthlessness of her Family, and the fate of almost being forced to become a concubine... Liu Ruyan took a deep breath, raised her head, and had already made a decision: "Since I have agreed, I will naturally serve Senior Brother with all my heart. Only... only I am still a maiden, and regarding... regarding the matters between men and women..."

Her cheeks flushed, and her voice grew quieter.

Lin Wan smiled and said in a gentle tone, "Do not worry. The 'Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique' I Cultivate emphasizes letting things take their natural course and the harmony of Yin and Yang. It is not about haste. Tonight, I will first explain the basics of the technique to help you sense Spiritual Qi. Other matters can wait until later."

His words were half-true. The "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" did indeed emphasize a gradual approach, but he had a System task on his shoulders; he had to make at least one person pregnant within a year, so he couldn't actually take it slow. However, stabilizing them first and building basic trust and tacit understanding was always good.

"Thank you for your consideration, Senior Brother." Liu Ruyan breathed a sigh of relief, and her favorability toward Lin Wan increased by another point.

Although Xiao Yun didn't understand much about cultivation, seeing that Lin Wan wasn't in a rush for them to serve him in bed, she also relaxed a bit.

Lin Wan began to explain the basics of the "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" to the two women. Although this technique was a Dual Cultivation method, the first three layers were also beneficial for men and women to Cultivate individually; it mainly focused on harmonizing the Yin and Yang Qi within the body and solidifying one's Foundation.

Xiao Yun had a mortal body and could not draw Qi into her body, but by practicing the breathing, spitting, and guidance movements in the technique, she could also strengthen her body and improve her Physique. Liu Ruyan had a weak Spiritual Root, and under Lin Wan's guidance, she quickly sensed a trace of faint Spiritual Qi. It flowed slowly through her body according to the technique's path. Although it was as slow as a tortoise crawling, she was indeed cultivating.

An hour later, Xiao Yun was already feeling drowsy, and Liu Ruyan had sweat on her forehead; the first time cultivating should not be overdone.

"Let's stop here for today." Lin Wan stopped explaining and looked at the crowded room. "Tonight... Ruyan and Xiao Yun will sleep on the bed, and I will sleep on the floor. Xiao Hu is still young, so he will sleep with you."

"How can that be!" Xiao Yun said hurriedly. "Big Brother Lin, you should sleep on the bed, Xiao Yun and Sister Ruyan can just sleep on the floor!"

Liu Ruyan also nodded: "Yes, Senior Brother, you still need to Cultivate..."

"No need to say more." Lin Wan waved his hand, his tone brooks no argument. "I am a man, and even more so, a Cultivator. Sleeping on the floor is nothing. You should rest early; there are household chores to attend to tomorrow."

His attitude was firm, and the two women had to agree.

Lin Wan spread a layer of hay in the corner, covered it with a thin quilt, sat cross-legged, and began his own cultivation. His Qi Refinement Stage level 6 cultivation needed to be solidified, and he also had to think about his next plan.

Night deepened, and Xiao Hu had long since fallen into a deep sleep in his sister's arms. Xiao Yun and Liu Ruyan squeezed onto the narrow bed. At first, they were a bit restrained, but exhaustion soon hit, and both gradually fell asleep.

Lin Wan, however, did not sleep. He closed his eyes, concentrated, and sank his consciousness into the System.

The System panel was concise and clear:

[Host: Lin Wan]

[Cultivation: Qi Refinement Stage level 6]

[Dao Companions: 2/?]

[Offspring: 0/?]

[Fortune Points: 150]

[Current Task: Branching Out (1) (Countdown: 364 days)]

"I still have 150 Fortune Points; I won't use them to upgrade my cultivation for now. Qi Refinement Stage level 6 is already considered upper-middle in the Outer Sect; increasing it further would easily attract attention." Lin Wan pondered inwardly. "The immediate priority is to complete the novice task and get someone pregnant. The 500 Fortune Points reward and that 'Opportunity for a slight improvement in offspring's Innate Aptitude' must be obtained."

He looked at the two women on the bed.

Xiao Yun had a mortal body; if she became pregnant, the offspring would likely be mortal, and the System reward might be lower. Liu Ruyan had a weak Spiritual Root; although poor, it was still cultivation Aptitude. There was a chance the offspring would inherit the Spiritual Root, so the reward should be higher.

"Liu Ruyan is the better choice. But she just arrived, her mind is not yet settled, and I need to Cultivate some feelings. At the very least, I need her to be willing. Xiao Yun has a soft personality and is easier..."

"No, I cannot just look at the immediate situation." Lin Wan quickly rejected this thought. "The System's reward mechanism clearly states that the better the offspring's Aptitude, the richer the rewards. Although Liu Ruyan has a weak Spiritual Root, there is at least a chance to give birth to offspring with Spiritual Roots. Moreover, by uniting with her, perhaps I can slightly improve her Aptitude through the Dual Cultivation Technique, laying a better Foundation for the future."

"That is decided. I will focus on cultivating my relationship with Liu Ruyan while not neglecting Xiao Yun. As for how to make Liu Ruyan willing... besides emotional investment, the most important thing is to let her see tangible benefits."

Cultivation resources, cultivation guidance, safety guarantees. These were all things she could personally feel.

"Moreover, my current cultivation is Qi Refinement Stage level 6, which is already a 'expert' in their eyes. Properly displaying some strength and mystery can also increase my appeal."

With the plan set, Lin Wan began to circulate the "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique". The technique circulated within his body, and a trace of indiscernible, mysterious Qi began to brew in his Dantian. This technique was indeed miraculous; even without a Dao Companion to cooperate with, cultivating it alone had the effect of stabilizing the Foundation and harmonizing Yin and Yang.

The night passed without incident.

The next morning, as the sky was just beginning to brighten, Xiao Yun got up quietly to start a fire and cook. Liu Ruyan also woke up and hurried to help when she saw this.

Lin Wan finished his cultivation and looked at the two women busy in front of the simple stove, a smile appearing at the corner of his mouth. This simple shack finally had a bit of the "home" atmosphere.

Breakfast was Jade Bud rice porridge with a small dish of pickles. Although simple, for the three who had long suffered from hunger, it was already a delicacy.

"Big Brother Lin, your porridge." Xiao Yun filled a full bowl and handed it to Lin Wan with both hands.

"Thank you." Lin Wan took it and looked at Liu Ruyan. "Ruyan, how did the cultivation feel last night?"

Liu Ruyan's eyes lit up, and she said excitedly, "Reporting to Senior Brother, according to the method you taught, I could feel a trace of Spiritual Qi flowing through my body! Although it was very slow and very weak, it was indeed cultivating!"

"Very good." Lin Wan nodded. "Your Aptitude is weak, but having a Spiritual Root is hope. With perseverance, it is not impossible to achieve something. Today, I will teach you a few tips on breathing and spitting that can increase the efficiency of Spiritual Qi absorption."

"Thank you, Senior Brother!" Liu Ruyan thanked him sincerely. Ever since this weak Spiritual Root was detected, her Family had ignored her, and no one had ever patiently guided her in cultivation.

Xiao Yun listened from the side, a flash of envy in her eyes, but it was quickly hidden as she lowered her head to drink the porridge in small sips.

Lin Wan saw this and said gently, "Xiao Yun, although you do not have a Spiritual Root, the path of cultivation is not just Qi Refinement. There are many ways to strengthen the body and prolong life. Later, I will teach you a set of health-preserving martial arts. With long-term practice, you will be immune to a hundred illnesses and living to a hundred years old will not be difficult."

"Really?" Xiao Yun looked up, pleasantly surprised.

"Naturally." Lin Wan smiled. He planned to use Fortune Points to exchange for a top-tier mortal health-preserving technique. It wasn't worth many points, but to Xiao Yun, it was a treasure.

After breakfast, Lin Wan used his remaining 50 Fortune Points to exchange for the "Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique" (top-tier mortal health-preserving technique) and the "Complete Guide to Basic Spiritual Plants". He gave the former to Xiao Yun and the latter to Liu Ruyan.

"Xiao Yun, practice this 'Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique' diligently. Combined with the medicinal diet recipes I gave you, it will not only strengthen your body, but with long-term persistence, maintaining your youthful appearance is not impossible."

"Ruyan, study this 'Complete Guide to Basic Spiritual Plants' carefully. Of the four arts of immortality—Alchemy, Artifact Refining, Talisman, and Formation—Alchemy is the Foundation. Your Spiritual Root is weak, but if you can gain insight into Alchemy, it will be a way out in the future. Although we have no resources for Alchemy now, laying a good Foundation is always good."

The two women took the thin booklets as if they were treasures. Especially Liu Ruyan, looking at the illustrated guide to Spiritual Plants in her hands, she was incredibly excited. This was the true Legacy of immortality! Even if it was just the most basic knowledge, to someone like her with a weak Spiritual Root and no one to rely on, it was something unattainable!

"Senior Brother's great kindness, Ruyan has nothing to repay..." Her voice choked with emotion.

"Since we are Family, there is no need to say these things." Lin Wan waved his hand. "I am going to the Mission Hall today to accept tasks and earn some Spirit Stones. You two should Cultivate and study well at home. If Xiao Hu is bored, Xiao Yun, you can teach him to read."

"Mm!" Xiao Yun nodded vigorously, looking at Lin Wan with eyes full of trust.

With everything arranged, Lin Wan went out.

With his cultivation raised to Qi Refinement Stage level 6, the level of tasks he could accept increased accordingly. The Outer Sect Mission Hall released hundreds of tasks every day, from the simplest cleaning and running errands to hunting Yao Beasts, collecting Spiritual Plants, escorting caravans, etc., with varying rewards.

Lin Wan carefully browsed the mission board.

What he needed now were: First, relatively rich rewards; Second, not having to leave the Sect too far or for too long (to take care of his home); Third, opportunities to accumulate combat experience; Fourth, opportunities to obtain some cultivation resources.

Soon, he locked onto a task:

[Collect Bloodline Grass: Bloodline Grass grows on the outskirts of Black Wind Valley behind Qingyun Sect; need to collect thirty stalks. Reward per stalk: 1 Contribution Point or half a Low-Grade Spirit Stone. Time limit: Five days. Acceptance requirements: Qi Refinement Stage level 4 or above, teaming up is recommended. Note: Low-level Yao Beasts appear on the outskirts of Black Wind Valley; caution is required.]

Contribution Points were the currency within Qingyun Sect and could be used to exchange for techniques, Medicinal Pills, Magical Artifacts, etc., in the Sect. 1 Contribution Point was roughly equivalent to one Low-Grade Spirit Stone, but some scarce resources could only be exchanged with Contribution Points.

"Bloodline Grass, a first-grade Low Grade Spiritual Plant, is the main material for refining 'Hemostatic Powder'. The outskirts of Black Wind Valley... I remember that 'Iron-Toothed Rabbits' and 'Wind-Shadow Martens' appear there, both are first-grade Low Grade Yao Beasts, equivalent to Cultivators at Qi Refinement Stage level 3 or 4. With my Qi Refinement Stage level 6 cultivation, it should be no problem if I am careful."

"Moreover, this task can be accepted solo, it just recommends teaming up. It is actually more convenient for me to act alone."

Lin Wan made up his mind and walked to the Deacon Disciple to register.

"Accept the task of collecting Bloodline Grass." He handed over his identity Jade Slip.

The Deacon Disciple was a young man in his twenties. He looked up at Lin Wan, a flash of surprise in his eyes: "Lin Wan? You... are at Qi Refinement Stage level 4?"

He remembered this famous piece of trash in the Outer Sect; three months ago, he was still at Qi Refinement Stage level 1. How did he suddenly reach Qi Refinement Stage level 4? And his aura was solid; it didn't look like he had just broken through.

Lin Wan had expected that someone would notice and said calmly, "I was lucky to have some insights a few days ago and broke through."

The Deacon Disciple was skeptical but didn't ask further. There were thousands of Outer Sect Disciples; it wasn't unheard of for someone to suddenly have a Breakthrough and improve their cultivation. He recorded the task information on the Jade Slip and reminded him: "Although Black Wind Valley is only the outskirts of the back mountain, it is still dangerous. You just broke through to Qi Refinement Stage level 4, it is best to team up with others. Do you need me to help you see if there are any teams going together?"

"No need, I want to experience training alone." Lin Wan took back the Jade Slip.

The Deacon Disciple shook his head and stopped persuading him. Everyone has their own fate; his reminder was already benevolent.

After accepting the task, Lin Wan did not go to the back mountain immediately but first went to the Outer Sect market.

He had 15 Low-Grade Spirit Stones on hand and needed to purchase some necessities.

First was a decent weapon. Previously, he was dirt poor and couldn't even afford the cheapest standard iron sword. In conflicts, he could only rely on his fists. Now that he had some assets, protective gear must be prepared.

After wandering around the weapons shop, Lin Wan set his sights on a "Green Steel Sword."

It was a Rank 1 Low Grade Magical Artifact, forged from refined iron mixed with a small amount of green steel. It was sharp and sturdy, capable of conducting Spiritual Qi and unleashing Sword Qi.

The price: 8 Low-Grade Spirit Stones.

"It's a bit expensive, but worth it." Lin Wan gritted his teeth and bought it.

Next, he spent another 2 Spirit Stones to buy a sturdy set of leather armor, which could withstand ordinary blades and the claws and fangs of low-Rank Yao Beasts. He used 1 Spirit Stone to buy ten "Fireball Talismans" (one-time-use Talismans that unleash a fireball when activated), 1 Spirit Stone to buy three "Qi Recovery Pills" (which quickly replenish a small amount of Spiritual Qi), and 1 Spirit Stone for some dry rations, a water skin, rope, and other miscellaneous items.

Finally, he had 2 Spirit Stones left for emergencies.

"Back to square one in an instant." Lin Wan weighed his empty coin pouch, shook his head, and gave a bitter smile. However, looking at the Green Steel Sword, leather armor, Talismans, and Medicinal Pills in his Storage Pouch, he felt much more at ease.

To do a good job, one must first sharpen one's tools. These investments were necessary.

With preparations complete, Lin Wan set off towards the Black Wind Valley in the back mountains.

The Qingyun Sect occupied a vast area, with its main body located on the main Peak of the Qingyun Mountain Range, surrounded by dozens of other large and small Peaks. The back mountains referred to the continuous mountain ranges behind the main Peak, where the Spiritual Qi was relatively thin and the Yao Beasts were of lower Rank, making it the primary area for Outer Sect Disciples to gain experience and complete missions.

The Black Wind Valley was a canyon in the back mountains, named for the strange black wind that frequently blew through it. That wind did not harm people, but it could interfere with Divine Sense perception, significantly reducing a Cultivator's detection range. Therefore, although it was only an outer area, one still needed to be extremely careful.

Lin Wan cast the "Wind Movement Spell," a basic Spell that could be learned at the 4th level of Qi Refining. It made one as light as a swallow and increased travel speed several times over. Although he could not yet fly on a Magical Artifact, crossing mountains and ridges was much easier.

An hour later, he arrived at the outskirts of the Black Wind Valley.

Before him was a deep, secluded canyon with steep cliffs on both sides and jagged, strange rocks. Faint black mist drifted in the valley, which was the very "Black Wind" that could interfere with Divine Sense. The mouth of the valley was overgrown with dense shrubs and weeds, and one could vaguely see the figures of small beasts darting about.

Lin Wan restrained his aura, gripped his Green Steel Sword tightly, and cautiously stepped into the valley.

As soon as he entered the range of the Black Wind, he immediately felt his Divine Sense being suppressed. His Divine Sense, which could originally probe ten zhang around him, could now only extend to three or four zhang. His vision was also affected by the mist, making it difficult to see clearly.

"It truly lives up to its reputation." Lin Wan became even more vigilant, slowed his pace, and carefully scanned his surroundings.

Bloodline Grass preferred shade and often grew in damp, shaded crevices of rocks or under shrubs. Its leaves were long and narrow, with dark red veins that resembled blood streaks, hence the name.

Lin Wan searched slowly along the valley floor while keeping an eye on the movements around him. The common Yao Beasts in the outer area of the Black Wind Valley were the Iron-Toothed Rabbit and the Wind-Shadow Marten. The former had sharp teeth capable of gnawing through metal, while the latter was extremely fast and skilled at sneak attacks.

After walking for about a quarter of an hour, Lin Wan's eyes lit up.

In a crevice under a blue stone ahead, a few stalks of dark red Spiritual Plants were gently swaying in the breeze.

Bloodline Grass! And there were five stalks!

His heart filled with joy, and just as he was about to step forward to harvest them, his ears twitched. He heard a faint "rustling" sound coming from the shrubs on his left.

Something was there!

Lin Wan immediately stopped and held his sword in defense.

"Swish!"

A grey shadow darted out from the shrubs, lunging directly at Lin Wan's face! It was extremely fast, carrying the sound of breaking wind!

Although startled, Lin Wan was not panicked. His cultivation at the 6th level of Qi Refining gave him reflexes far superior to ordinary people. He dodged to the side while simultaneously slashing diagonally with his Green Steel Sword!

"Squeak—!"

With a shrill cry, the grey shadow was struck by the sword edge, fell to the ground, twitched a few times, and then went still.

Lin Wan looked closely and saw it was a marten-type Yao Beast with grey fur and a body about a foot long. There was blood at the corner of its mouth, and it was already dead.

"Wind-Shadow Marten." Lin Wan recognized it. This was a Rank 1 Low Grade Yao Beast. Speed was its greatest advantage, but its defense was very weak. If his Divine Sense hadn't been suppressed and he hadn't detected the movement in advance, he might have really been struck.

"The Black Wind Valley is indeed dangerous. I've only just entered, and I've already encountered a sneak attack." Lin Wan still felt lingering fear as he stepped forward to collect the Wind-Shadow Marten's corpse into his Storage Pouch. The marten fur could sell for some money; although it wasn't much, every little bit counted.

He walked to the blue stone, carefully harvested the five stalks of Bloodline Grass by the roots, and placed them into a pre-prepared Jade Box to preserve their medicinal properties.

"A good start. Let's continue."

With this experience, Lin Wan became even more careful. He no longer kept his head down searching for Spiritual Plants but instead kept a constant watch on the surroundings. Although his Divine Sense was suppressed, he extended it as much as possible, not letting any anomaly escape his notice.

Half an hour later, he found three more patches of Bloodline Grass, totaling eleven stalks. During this time, he was attacked by two more Iron-Toothed Rabbits, both of which he easily dealt with. With his 6th level Qi Refining cultivation combined with the Green Steel Sword, as long as he didn't grow careless, there was basically no danger in dealing with these Rank 1 Low Grade Yao Beasts.

"Already sixteen stalks. Progress is good." Lin Wan wiped the fine sweat from his forehead, found a relatively hidden corner, took a Qi Recovery Pill, and sat in meditation to recover.

In a place like the Black Wind Valley, one must always keep their Spiritual Qi abundant to guard against the unexpected.

After resting for the time it takes to burn an incense stick, Lin Wan continued his exploration. The further he went into the valley, the thicker the Black Wind became, and the more severely his vision and Divine Sense were restricted. He dared not venture deep and only searched carefully in the outer areas.

Another hour passed, and Lin Wan found eight more stalks of Bloodline Grass. Combined with the previous ones, he now had twenty-four stalks, only six short of the mission requirement.

"A little more effort, and I can finish the mission today." Lin Wan felt his spirits lift.

He searched upstream along a stream. The banks were damp, which was the exact environment that Bloodline Grass preferred.

Sure enough, by a pool under a waterfall, he discovered a large patch of Bloodline Grass. A rough look revealed at least twenty-plus stalks!

"So many!" Lin Wan was overjoyed. Just as he was about to step forward, his heart suddenly chilled, and a sense of danger welled up in his mind.

Something was wrong!

Although Bloodline Grass was not considered precious, it shouldn't grow in such a concentrated cluster, and the surroundings were too quiet; there wasn't even the sound of insects.

When things are unusual, there must be something sinister afoot!

Lin Wan stopped and focused his attention. The pool was not large, but the water was dark and deep, with no bottom in sight. The waterfall cascaded down from a three-zhang-high cliff, the sound of water roaring.

On the surface, everything looked normal, but the sense of danger was becoming increasingly intense.

"What is it?" Lin Wan gripped his Green Steel Sword tightly and slowly retreated.

Just at that moment, the pool water suddenly churned violently!

"Splash!"

A black python as thick as a water bucket lunged out from the pool. Its head was raised high, over a zhang above the ground. Its cold, vertical pupils stared fixedly at Lin Wan, and its scarlet tongue flicked in and out, making a "hissing" sound.

The python's entire body was covered in pitch-black scales that shimmered with a metallic luster in the dim light. Faint cloud patterns were vaguely visible on its body, and there were rings of white patterns on its belly.

"Black Water Profound Python! A Rank 1 High Grade Yao Beast!" Lin Wan gasped, and alarm bells rang in his heart.

A Rank 1 High Grade Yao Beast was equivalent to a Late Stage Qi Refining Cultivator, specifically between the 7th and 9th levels of Qi Refining! Judging by its size, this Black Water Profound Python was at least equivalent to the 8th level of Qi Refining! Moreover, python-type Yao Beasts had immense strength and thick skin, making them extremely difficult to deal with.

"No wonder there is so much Bloodline Grass here; it turns out this is this creature's territory!" Lin Wan understood in an instant. Within a Yao Beast's territory, Spiritual Plants often grew better because the Yao Beast's aura drove away other weaker Yao Beasts, reducing damage to the Spiritual Plants.

"Hiss—!"

The Black Water Profound Python seemed extremely displeased with the intruder. It suddenly opened its bloody maw, and a stream of foul-smelling black water shot toward Lin Wan like an arrow!

Lin Wan had been prepared. He tapped his feet and retreated rapidly!

"Ssss, ssss, ssss..."

The black water landed on the ground, immediately corroding it into pits, and the vegetation instantly withered and turned scorched black.

"It's poisonous!" Lin Wan's expression changed. This black water was not only powerful but also highly toxic!

The Black Water Profound Python, having missed its first strike, lunged out with its massive body at incredible speed, opening its large mouth to bite at Lin Wan! A foul wind rushed into his face!

Run!

Lin Wan made an instant judgment. With his 6th level Qi Refining cultivation, his odds of winning a head-on confrontation against a Rank 1 High Grade Yao Beast were slim! Not to mention that this Black Water Profound Python was also poisonous!

He did not hesitate, turned, and fled! At the same time, he flicked his hand and threw two Fireball Talismans backward!

"Boom! Boom!"

Two fireballs exploded on the python's head, sparks flying everywhere. However, the Black Water Profound Python only shook its head, and not even a scorch mark was left on its scales—its scales had extremely strong resistance to low-level fire-type Spells.

"Hiss!" The enraged python moved even faster, chasing after him like a bolt of black lightning!

Lin Wan pushed his Wind Movement Spell to the limit, darting left and right through the forest, trying to shake off the pursuit. But the Black Water Profound Python was the overlord of this place, extremely familiar with the terrain, and its speed was no slower than his, causing the distance between them to close rapidly!

"I can't escape like this!" Lin Wan's mind raced. He scanned his surroundings and suddenly saw a stone forest not far ahead, with jagged rocks and narrow passages.

"Go there!"

He dashed into the stone forest, weaving through the narrow gaps between the rocks. The Black Water Profound Python's massive body was obstructed by the stone forest, its speed immediately slowing down, and it angrily slammed into the rocks, sending debris flying.

Lin Wan took the Opportunity to open up some distance, but he dared not stop and continued to run wildly.

He ran for several miles in one breath until he could no longer hear any movement from the python. Only then did Lin Wan lean against a giant boulder, gasping for air, cold sweat soaking his back.

"That was close... I almost lost my life here." He felt lingering fear. If he had reacted a second slower, or if that stone forest hadn't been there, he would likely have become a meal in the python's belly.

"A Rank 1 High Grade Yao Beast is indeed not something I can provoke right now." Lin Wan gave a bitter smile. His cultivation was still too low.

After resting for a moment, he checked his direction and decided to bypass that pool area and go elsewhere to search for Bloodline Grass.

Although he had encountered danger, the mission still had to be completed. Moreover, after this life-and-death escape, Lin Wan felt that his control over Spiritual Qi and his judgment of timing had both improved significantly. Real combat was truly the fastest way to improve one's strength.

For the next half-day, Lin Wan was even more careful, avoiding several areas that might harbor powerful Yao Beasts. Finally, as the sun was setting in the west, he found the last seven stalks of Bloodline Grass, exceeding the mission requirement.

"Thirty stalks gathered, plus three extra." Lin Wan looked at the dark red Spiritual Plants in the Jade Box and nodded with satisfaction. He could keep the extras for himself or sell them for Spirit Stones.

In addition to the Bloodline Grass, he also harvested: three Wind-Shadow Marten pelts, twelve Iron-Toothed Rabbit teeth, and several types of worthless Rank 1 Low Grade Spiritual Plants. The total value was about fifteen Low-Grade Spirit Stones, and adding the mission reward, the income from this trip exceeded twenty Spirit Stones.

"It was worth it." Lin Wan smiled. Although it was thrilling, the harvest was bountiful.

Seeing that it was getting late and that the Black Wind Valley was even more dangerous at night, he did not linger and quickly retreated toward the outside of the valley.

However, just as he was about to exit the Black Wind Valley, he suddenly heard the sounds of fighting and angry shouts ahead.

"Hmm? Someone?" Lin Wan frowned, restrained his aura, and quietly crept over.

Passing through a patch of woods, there was an open space ahead. He saw four people wearing the robes of Qingyun Sect Outer Sect Disciples, fiercely fighting against a man and a woman who were surrounded.

The two being besieged were acquaintances of Lin Wan—the very same pair he had seen at the Mission Hall yesterday, the fellow villagers of Liu Ruyan, the siblings being forced by Zhao Hu because of debt! The man was named Liu Ming, and the woman was the cousin Liu Ruyan had mentioned, Liu Rushuang?

The four people attacking them were led by none other than Zhao Hu! The other three were his lackeys.

At this moment, Liu Ming was covered in blood, his left arm hanging limply, clearly severely injured, yet he still gritted his teeth and protected his sister. Liu Rushuang's face was deathly pale, and she held a short sword, but her hands were trembling, clearly possessing little combat power.

Zhao Hu held a Ghost-Head Blade, the blade glowing with a bloody light, clearly a high-quality Magical Artifact. He sneered: "Liu Ming, stop your death struggle! Hand over that thing, and perhaps I can give you and your sister a quick death!"

"Pah! Zhao Hu, don't even think about it!" Liu Ming spat out a mouthful of bloody foam, his eyes resolute. "That is an heirloom of my Liu Family. Even if I die, I will not hand it over to you animals!"

"Stubborn fool!" Zhao Hu's expression darkened. "Get him! Kill the man, and take the woman alive! Senior Brother Zhou specifically asked for this young girl!"

The three lackeys responded and lunged forward, blades and swords drawn!

Liu Ming barely managed to swing his sword to block, but in his heavily injured state, he was powerless, and he was immediately in mortal danger. Liu Rushuang screamed and tried to help, but was slapped away by one of the lackeys, falling to the ground and vomiting blood.

Just as Liu Ming was about to lose his life under the blade—

"Stop!"

A cold shout came, and Lin Wan walked out from behind a tree.

Everyone on the scene was stunned and looked at Lin Wan.

"Lin Wan?" Zhao Hu was taken aback at first, then laughed loudly. "I wondered who it was, turns out it's you, trash! What, haven't had enough of playing the hero saving the beauty yesterday, and you want to try again today?"

He sized up Lin Wan and found that the other party's aura seemed a bit stronger than yesterday, but he didn't pay much attention to it. A 1st level Qi Refining trash, even if he luckily broke through to the 2nd level, what did it matter?

When Liu Ming and Liu Rushuang saw Lin Wan, hope flashed in their eyes, then immediately dimmed. They knew Lin Wan's "true strength"—1st level Qi Refining; coming here was just throwing his life away.

"Senior Brother Zhao, it is better to be forgiving when one can." Lin Wan said with an expressionless face as he walked over slowly. "Yesterday I already paid ten Spirit Stones on their behalf and established a written agreement. Now you are here with people to surround and kill them again, isn't that against the rules?"

"Rules?" Zhao Hu acted as if he had heard the biggest joke in the world. "In this Black Wind Valley, I am the rules! Lin Wan, I advise you to stop meddling in other people's business and get lost! Otherwise, I will slaughter you along with them!"

A fierce glint flashed in his eyes. Yesterday, fearing that Lin Wan might have connected with an Inner Sect Disciple, he had temporarily backed down. But after returning, the more he thought about it, the more wrong it felt—how could a piece of trash like Lin Wan possibly connect with an Inner Sect Senior Brother? He must have had some stroke of blind luck and acquired a windfall.

Today, here in the Black Wind Valley, in this desolate wilderness, killing him would just be killing him; who would know it was his doing? It would be perfect to snatch back those ten Spirit Stones, and he could also complete the task Senior Brother Zhou had assigned him—killing two birds with one stone!

"It seems there is nothing to talk about." Lin Wan sighed, his right hand resting on the hilt of his Green Steel Sword.

"Talk? You think you are worthy!" Zhao Hu sneered. "Since you are courting death, I will grant your wish! Brothers, slaughter this piece of trash first!"

Two of the three lackeys immediately split off and lunged toward Lin Wan! Both of these men were at the third level of the Qi Refinement Stage and were considered capable hands in the Outer Sect. They did not take Lin Wan seriously at all; their blades struck directly at his vitals, their attacks ruthless!

Liu Ming exclaimed, "Brother Lin, be careful!"

Liu Rushuang closed her eyes in despair.

However, the next instant—

A flash of sword light!

Fast! So fast it exceeded everyone's expectations!

"Clang! Clang!"

Two sounds of metal clashing rang out almost simultaneously!

Those two lackeys at the third level of the Qi Refinement Stage only felt a violent shock in their wrists, their tiger's mouths splitting open, and the blades in their hands flew out of their grasp! Before they could even react, a sharp pain came from their chests, and their entire bodies flew backward like kites with broken strings, crashing heavily to the ground. Their chests were sunken, blood sprayed wildly from their mouths, and it was clear they would not survive.

One sword strike, instantly killing two people!

The entire scene fell into dead silence.

The sneer on Zhao Hu's face froze, his eyes widened until they were round, as if he had seen a ghost.

Liu Ming opened his mouth wide, forgetting his pain.

Liu Rushuang opened her eyes and saw this scene, her face full of disbelief.

"You, you..." Zhao Hu pointed at Lin Wan, his voice trembling, "You are not at the first level of the Qi Refinement Stage! You... you hid your cultivation!"

Being able to instantly kill two people at the third level of the Qi Refinement Stage with one strike meant he was at least at the fourth level, or even the fifth level!

How is this possible for this piece of trash?!

"Only knowing now, it's too late." Lin Wan spoke indifferently, his Green Steel Sword pointing diagonally at the ground, blood droplets dripping from the tip.

He originally did not want to expose his strength, but since they had run into each other, and Zhao Hu clearly wanted to silence him, there was nothing left to hide. People dying in Black Wind Valley was perfectly normal.

"So what if you are at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Stage!" Zhao Hu was, after all, at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Stage, and he quickly calmed down, the fierce glint in his eyes intensifying. "You dare to kill my men; don't think about leaving here alive today! Attack together!"

He called out to the remaining lackey who was also at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Stage, and the two of them lunged at Lin Wan from left and right! Zhao Hu's Ghost-Head Blade glowed with a blood-colored aura, clearly having used some secret technique, its power astonishing!

However, in the eyes of Lin Wan, who was at the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage, their movements were full of flaws.

"Too slow."

Lin Wan's figure flickered, passing through the gap between their pincer attack like a ghost, his Green Steel Sword tracing a strange arc—

"Puff!"

A blood line appeared on the neck of that lackey at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Stage; he widened his eyes, clutched his throat, made a few gurgling sounds, and collapsed to the ground.

Zhao Hu slashed his blade into empty air, his heart filled with terror, and he hurriedly turned back to block with his blade horizontally!

"Clang!"

The Green Steel Sword struck the Ghost-Head Blade, sending sparks flying everywhere! Zhao Hu only felt a massive, overwhelming force coming from the blade, shaking his arm until it went numb, his tiger's mouth splitting open, and the Ghost-Head Blade almost flew out of his hand!

"Sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage?! No, impossible!" Zhao Hu was terrified to the extreme; he finally felt Lin Wan's true cultivation aura—that was clearly the spiritual energy fluctuation only present at the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage!

How could this piece of trash possibly break through from the first level to the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage within a month?! Even a Genius with a Heavenly Spiritual Root could not be this fast! Unless... unless he had some monumental Opportunity!

"Run!"

Zhao Hu instantly lost all fighting spirit. He was only at the fourth level of the Qi Refinement Stage and had only dared to be arrogant by relying on his sharp Magical Artifact and having many people on his side. Now that all three lackeys were dead and the opponent was at the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage, he was simply no match!

He did not hesitate at all, turned around, and fled! At the same time, he flicked his hand and threw a Talisman backward!

"Boom!"

The Talisman exploded, turning into a ball of dense black mist, obscuring vision and also interfering with Divine Sense detection.

"Want to run?" Lin Wan sneered. Although his Divine Sense at the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage was interfered with by the black mist, it still locked onto the direction of Zhao Hu's escape. He pushed off with his feet, unleashed his Wind Control Spell to its full extent, and chased after him like an arrow released from a bowstring!

Hearing the sound of wind breaking behind him, Zhao Hu was scared out of his wits, desperately driving his spiritual energy to flee. But his own cultivation was lower than Lin Wan's, and his speed was even less. In just a few breaths, Lin Wan had already caught up behind him!

"Lin Wan! Spare my life! I can give you Spirit Stones, give you Magical Artifacts! My cousin is an Inner Sect Deacon; if you kill me, you won't be able to survive either!" Zhao Hu begged for mercy while fleeing, his voice hoarse.

"Inner Sect Deacon?" Lin Wan's eyes grew colder. If it were before, he might have been wary. But since they had already formed a mortal feud, letting Zhao Hu go would lead to endless trouble! As for his cousin... as long as he was clean in his actions, who would know it was he who killed him?

"Puff!"

A flash of sword light pierced in from Zhao Hu's back and came out through his chest!

Zhao Hu's figure stiffened; he looked down at the sword tip emerging from his chest, his eyes full of disbelief and unwillingness. He opened his mouth, wanting to say something, but only blood foam welled up. Then, everything went black before his eyes, and he collapsed to the ground, dying instantly.

Lin Wan pulled out his long sword and wiped the blood stains on Zhao Hu's body. He squatted down and quickly searched for spoils of war.

In Zhao Hu's Storage Pouch, there were twenty-three Low-Grade Spirit Stones, a few bottles of Medicinal Pills (Qi Recovery Pills, Healing Pills), and that Ghost-Head Blade was a first-order Medium Grade Magical Artifact, which was quite valuable. The Storage Pouches of the three lackeys added up to over ten Spirit Stones and some miscellaneous items.

"Murder and arson bring golden belts; the ancients did not deceive me." Lin Wan packed everything away, and with a rough calculation, this haul exceeded fifty Low-Grade Spirit Stones! It was much better than working hard on missions.

However, he also understood that this kind of thing could happen once but not again. If it were not for Zhao Hu harboring murderous intent first, he would not have been so ruthless. Killing people within the Sect carried too much risk.

He dragged the four corpses to a hidden gully, threw a few Fireball Talismans, and destroyed the bodies to eliminate evidence. He then carefully cleaned up the traces of the fight, confirming no obvious clues were left behind, and only then did he breathe a sigh of relief.

After finishing all this, Lin Wan walked toward the Liu Ming siblings.

Liu Ming struggled to stand up to salute, but was pressed down by Lin Wan: "Don't move, you are severely injured."

Liu Ming's face was pale, his breath weak, but his eyes were full of gratitude and lingering fear: "Brother, Brother Lin... No, Senior Brother Lin! Thank you for saving my life! I, Liu Ming, in this life..."

"Heal your injuries first." Lin Wan interrupted him, found a bottle of Healing Pills from Zhao Hu's Storage Pouch, poured out two, fed one to Liu Ming, and gave one to Liu Rushuang.

Liu Rushuang's injuries were lighter, and her complexion improved significantly after taking the Medicinal Pill. She looked at Lin Wan, her eyes complex, filled with gratitude, awe, and also a trace of unspeakable emotion. This rumored "piece of trash" was actually hiding his strength so deeply, killing Zhao Hu and the four of them with one sword strike; his cultivation was at least at the sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage! This was simply a fantasy!

"Senior Brother Lin, great kindness need not be thanked in words. But Zhao Hu's cousin is an Inner Sect Deacon, Deacon Zhao Kun; if this matter is known to him..." Liu Ming took the Medicinal Pill, caught his breath, and said worriedly.

"It does not matter, I have already cleaned up this place; as long as you do not say anything, no one will know." Lin Wan said calmly, "Instead, why were you being hunted by Zhao Hu? What is the 'thing' he mentioned?"

Liu Ming and Liu Rushuang looked at each other, hesitated for a moment, then Liu Ming gritted his teeth, took out a palm-sized, ancient wooden box from his bosom, and presented it with both hands: "Senior Brother Lin, to tell you the truth, this item is a 'Foundation Establishment Pill' passed down by my Liu Family."

"Foundation Establishment Pill?!" Lin Wan's pupils constricted.

The Foundation Establishment Pill, the key Medicinal Pill for Qi Refinement Stage Cultivators to break through to the Foundation Establishment Stage! It can significantly increase the success rate of Foundation Establishment! One Foundation Establishment Pill is worth thousands of Low-Grade Spirit Stones on the market, and it is priceless with no market! Within the Qingyun Sect, only Inner Sect Disciples, or Outer Sect Disciples who have made great contributions to the Sect, have the chance to be rewarded with one.

A small branch of the Liu Family actually possessed such a treasure as a Foundation Establishment Pill?

"Yes." Liu Ming smiled bitterly, "This pill was obtained by one of my Liu Family's ancestors in a Secret Realm a hundred years ago. The ancestor originally wanted to keep it as the Family's Foundation, but unfortunately, later generations were unworthy, and no more Disciples with hope of Foundation Establishment ever appeared. The pill was kept sealed. Somehow, the news leaked, and it became known to Senior Brother Zhou behind Zhao Hu, which led to this life-threatening disaster."

He paused, and said sincerely: "Senior Brother Lin, keeping this pill in our hands is a curse, not a blessing. If it were not for you saving us today, we would have already lost our lives and the pill. This Foundation Establishment Pill will be gifted to you, Senior Brother, to repay your life-saving grace!"

Liu Rushuang also nodded: "Senior Brother Lin, please accept it. We cannot protect this item; instead, it will only invite a life-threatening disaster."

Lin Wan looked at that ancient wooden box, his heart struggling violently.

Foundation Establishment Pill! This is the key for his future Breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment Stage! With this pill, he could save at least several years of hard work, or even more! Although the System could improve his cultivation, Breakthroughs in major Realms, especially the leap in life level from Qi Refinement to Foundation Establishment, were probably not that simple. The Foundation Establishment Pill was undoubtedly an important guarantee.

However, this was an heirloom of the Liu Family; his intervention today, although it was life-saving, also had the purpose of self-preservation and obtaining benefits. Taking it directly, in terms of reason and sentiment...

"Senior Brother!" Seeing Lin Wan hesitate, Liu Ming said anxiously, "If you do not take it, this pill will sooner or later fall into the hands of people like Zhao Hu! That would be the true disgrace to our ancestors! Senior Brother, your cultivation is profound, and you are righteous; only in your hands can this pill be used to its fullest potential! Please, Senior Brother, you must accept it!"

Saying this, he forcibly shoved the wooden box into Lin Wan's hands.

Lin Wan took a deep breath and stopped being pretentious: "Fine, I will accept this pill. Consider it me owing you a favor. In the future, if there is a need, as long as it does not violate righteousness, I will definitely help."

He put away the wooden box and added: "Although Zhao Hu is dead, the Senior Brother Zhou behind him probably will not just let it go. What are your plans for next?"

Liu Ming sighed: "We cannot stay in the Qingyun Sect anymore. We plan to leave the Eastern Profound Domain and go to seek refuge with a distant relative in the Central Province. It is just... it is just that our cousin Ruyan is still in the Sect, and we are worried about her."

Liu Ruyan? Lin Wan's heart stirred.

"Ruyan is with me now, she is very safe." Lin Wan said, "You can rest assured, I will take care of her."

The Liu Ming siblings were stunned, then suddenly realized. No wonder Lin Wan would intervene to save them; it turned out he knew Ruyan. Looking at Lin Wan's cultivation and character, Ruyan following him might be better than following them on the run.

"In that case... I will entrust her to you, Senior Brother Lin." Liu Ming gave a solemn salute, "My sister and I will leave now, so as not to implicate you and Ruyan. If we have the chance in the future, we will repay your great kindness!"

"Take care." Lin Wan nodded, and took out twenty Low-Grade Spirit Stones and some Healing Pills to hand to Liu Ming, "Use these on the road."

Liu Ming wanted to decline, but seeing Lin Wan's firm attitude, he accepted it, thanked him again, and then left in a hurry with his sister.

Watching the two disappear into the depths of the dense forest, Lin Wan stood in place, silent for a long time.

Today's events could be described as thrilling and highly rewarding. Not only did he complete the mission and obtain rich resources, but he also gained a Foundation Establishment Pill. But at the same time, he had completely offended Senior Brother Zhou of the Inner Sect—although the other party did not know it was his doing for now, paper cannot wrap up fire, and sooner or later, they would investigate him.

"I must improve my strength as soon as possible!" Lin Wan clenched his fists, "The sixth level of the Qi Refinement Stage is far from enough! I must at least break through to the Late Stage of the Qi Refinement Stage, or even Foundation Establishment! Only by being strong myself can I fear no threats!"

He did not linger any longer and quickly left the Black Wind Valley.

When he returned to his residence in the Outer Sect, it was already completely dark. Warm light shone from the window of the small cottage, and the faint aroma of food wafted out.

Lin Wan felt a slight warmth in his heart. This feeling of having someone waiting for him, having a home to return to, was something he had never experienced in his past life, but in this life... perhaps he could grasp it.

"Big Brother Lin, you are back!" Xiao Yun heard the movement, opened the door to welcome him, her face full of joy and worry, "Why so late? You did not encounter any danger, did you?"

Liu Ruyan also followed out, and seeing that Lin Wan was safe and sound, she breathed a sigh of relief, but then noticed a few bloodstains on his robe, her expression changing: "Senior Brother, are you hurt?"

"It is fine, it is not my blood." Lin Wan walked into the house and took out what he had obtained today one by one.

When she saw more than thirty Blood-Thread Grasses, a few Yao Beast hides, dozens of Low-Grade Spirit Stones, and that Ghost-Head Blade, Xiao Yun exclaimed. Liu Ruyan also widened her eyes.

"Senior Brother, this... so much?" Liu Ruyan's voice trembled. Coming from a small Family, she had never seen so many cultivation resources. Especially that Ghost-Head Blade, with its imposing spiritual energy, it was clearly not an ordinary item.

"I had good luck today." Lin Wan briefly talked about his mission experience, omitting the part about Zhao Hu, only saying that he had encountered some Yao Beasts and had resolved them all.

He set the Blood-Thread Grass aside to hand in the mission tomorrow. He then divided ten Low-Grade Spirit Stones among the two girls: "Take these for your daily expenses. Xiao Yun, tomorrow you go buy some good rice and meat, and add some bedding and clothes. Ruyan, if you need any cultivation Materials, you can also purchase some."

"This... too much..." Xiao Yun waved her hands repeatedly.

"Senior Brother, we cannot take this..." Liu Ruyan also said.

"Take it." Lin Wan's tone was unquestionable, "Since we are a Family, what is mine is yours. Cultivate well and keep your health, that is the greatest help to me."

The two girls looked at each other, their eyes slightly red, and silently accepted it.

Dinner was Jade Sprout Rice, served with a plate of stir-fried bamboo shoots with cured meat, a dish of green vegetables, and a bowl of egg drop soup. Although simple, it was steaming hot and fragrant. Xiao Hu ate happily, his little face full of smiles.

Lin Wan looked at this scene, and a soft place in his heart was touched.

Perhaps, this kind of life was not bad.

After the meal, Xiao Yun tidied up the bowls and chopsticks, while Liu Ruyan pulled Lin Wan aside to ask about the problems she encountered during her cultivation.

She had been studying the "Complete Compendium of Basic Spiritual Plants" and practicing, and her progress was obvious; she could already barely circulate one cycle.

Lin Wan answered patiently and pointed out a few small techniques to her.

Liu Ruyan listened attentively, her eyes shining with brilliance.

It was late at night, time to rest.

It was still that narrow bed, but tonight's atmosphere was completely different from yesterday.

Xiao Yun made the bed, her face burning red, and she lowered her head, not daring to look at anyone.

Liu Ruyan's cheeks were also flushed, her fingers twisting the corner of her clothes.

Lin Wan knew he couldn't delay any longer.

The mission time was limited, and after what happened today, he needed to improve his strength even more urgently.

Dual Cultivation with his Dao Companions would not only improve their relationship but also benefit both their cultivation bases.

"Xiao Yun, Ruyan." He walked to the bedside, his voice gentle but firm, "Since we have become Dao Companions, some things should just take their natural course. The 'Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique' I Cultivate requires male and female joint cultivation to achieve twice the result with half the effort. Tonight, I will teach you the method of Dual Cultivation."

The two women trembled simultaneously.

Xiao Yun bowed her head even lower, her voice as thin as a mosquito's: "E-everything is up to Big Brother Lin."

Liu Ruyan took a deep breath and looked up. Although there was shyness in her eyes, there was more determination: "Senior Brother, I am ready."

Lin Wan nodded, waved his hand to cast a burst of spiritual power, and the oil lamp went out.

In the darkness, the rustling sound of clothing rubbing against clothing arose, accompanied by suppressed breathing.

Moonlight leaked in through the tattered window paper, vaguely illuminating the figures on the bed that were gradually getting closer.

"Relax, circulate your spiritual power according to the method I taught you..." Lin Wan's voice was low and gentle, guiding them.

The "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" slowly circulated, and the Yin and Yang Qi flowed and blended between the three of them.

Lin Wan's pure spiritual power at the Qi Refining Stage Level 6 nourished the two women's bodies and Meridians like a hot spring.

Xiao Yun was of a mortal constitution. Under the flushing of this spiritual power, she only felt her whole body warm and indescribably comfortable.

Some hidden injuries and Impurities in her body were slowly discharged, and her skin became even more delicate and smooth.

Liu Ruyan's gains were even greater.

Her Spiritual Root, which was so weak it could almost be ignored, was actually slightly touched in this mysterious state of Yin and Yang interaction, and her perception of Spiritual Qi became a sliver clearer!

Even more, a wisp of pure spiritual power flowed into her Dantian, causing her cultivation base to grow at a speed visible to the naked eye!

A night of spring breeze, lingering several times over.

When the first ray of morning light shone into the small house, Lin Wan slowly opened his eyes.

In the crook of his left and right arms, Xiao Yun and Liu Ruyan were nestled in his embrace, one on each side, sleeping soundly.

Xiao Yun had a faint smile on the corner of her mouth, while Liu Ruyan's brows were relaxed, her breath even; she was clearly still spontaneously circulating the technique in her sleep, absorbing the lingering charm of last night's Dual Cultivation.

Lin Wan did not disturb them, gently withdrew his arms, sat up, and felt the changes in himself.

His cultivation base was still at Qi Refining Stage Level 6, but it was more condensed and stable, only a line away from Level 7.

More importantly, there was a wisp of profound Yin-Yang Creation Qi in his Dantian.

This was the Origin Qi that would only be produced when the "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" was cultivated to a certain Realm, which would be of great benefit to future cultivation and Breakthroughs.

"Sure enough, Dual Cultivation is the correct way to open this technique." Lin Wan smiled slightly and his consciousness sank into the System.

[Completed Dual Cultivation with Dao Companions for the first time. Target 1: Xiao Yun (Mortal). Obtained Fortune Points: 50. Target 2: Liu Ruyan (Weak Spiritual Root). Obtained Fortune Points: 200.]

[Dao Companion Xiao Yun gained the 'Cleansing Meridians and Marrow' effect, Physique slightly improved, lifespan extended.]

[Dao Companion Liu Ruyan gained the 'Spiritual Root Nourishment' effect, Spiritual Root slightly improved, cultivation speed increased by 10%.]

[Triggered special event: Luan-Feng Harmony. Obtained extra rewards: Fortune Points × 100. "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" proficiency greatly improved.]

[Current Dao Companion intimacy: Xiao Yun (65/100), Liu Ruyan (60/100).]

A series of System notifications made Lin Wan overjoyed.

A night of Dual Cultivation actually yielded 350 Fortune Points!

And all kinds of additional effects!

Xiao Yun's Physique improvement meant she was more likely to conceive and give birth to healthy children.

Liu Ruyan's Spiritual Root improvement, although only 10%, was already a huge step forward for someone with her weak Spiritual Root!

And the intimacy had also increased quite a bit.

"It seems that Dual Cultivation is not just a means to complete tasks, it can bring rich returns by itself. And it can also improve the Aptitude and intimacy of my Dao Companions, killing multiple birds with one stone."

Lin Wan's evaluation of this System was even higher.

He looked at the two women who were still sleeping, his eyes much softer.

Regardless of the original purpose, they were now his women, and he would take responsibility.

Without disturbing their rest, Lin Wan got out of bed lightly, got dressed, and walked out of the small house.

The morning air was fresh and moist, and the distant mountains were looming in the morning mist.

Lin Wan practiced a set of fist techniques in the small courtyard to stretch his muscles and bones while sorting out his plan for what came next.

"First, go to the Mission Hall to turn in the mission and exchange for Contribution Points. Then, use the Contribution Points to exchange for some practical Spells and cultivation resources. Although no one knows about Zhao Hu's death for now, his uncle, the Inner Sect Deacon, and Senior Brother Zhou behind him will investigate sooner or later. I must improve my strength as soon as possible."

"Secondly, Liu Ruyan can start formal cultivation. I need to plan a cultivation route for her. Her Spiritual Root is weak, but her Comprehension Ability seems good. She can try the auxiliary route of Alchemy or Talisman-making. This way, she can not only protect herself but also create value for the Family."

"Although Xiao Yun has no Spiritual Root, she can take the path of Body Refining or Martial Arts. The 'Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique' is only for health preservation; she still needs a real martial arts technique. When there are enough Fortune Points, I can exchange for a martial arts technique suitable for women to practice."

"As for myself... Qi Refining Stage Level 6 to Level 7 is a small threshold, but with my current accumulation and the System, a Breakthrough is not difficult. The difficulty is Foundation Establishment. Although I have a Foundation Establishment Pill, Foundation Establishment is not guaranteed just by having the pill. It requires raising the cultivation base to the Great Perfection of Qi Refining, polishing the spiritual power to be incomparably pure, and having the corresponding Foundation Establishment technique... These are all problems."

"However, you have to eat one bite at a time. Let's set a small goal first: within three months, break through to the Late Stage of Qi Refining (above Level 7). At the same time, try to improve the strength of Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun, at least to give them the ability to protect themselves."

His train of thought gradually became clear, and Lin Wan felt more confident.

At this moment, light footsteps came from behind.

"Big Brother Lin, you got up so early."

Xiao Yun walked over with a basin of hot water, her face still carrying an un-faded blush, but her complexion was excellent; her skin was white with a hint of pink, and her eyes were bright, looking like a different person from yesterday.

This was clearly the effect of last night's Dual Cultivation and the "Cleansing Meridians and Marrow."

"You got up so early too, why not sleep a little longer?"

Lin Wan took the basin.

"I'm used to it." Xiao Yun said in a low voice, not daring to look into Lin Wan's eyes, "I'm going to make breakfast. Sister Ruyan is still sleeping, she seems to be... cultivating."

Lin Wan swept his Divine Sense, and sure enough, Liu Ruyan was sitting cross-legged on the bed, with extremely faint fluctuations of Spiritual Qi around her body, clearly consolidating what she gained last night.

"Let her Cultivate for a while longer, don't disturb her."

Lin Wan said.

"Mm." Xiao Yun replied and turned to get busy at the stove.

Her steps were light, and she was clearly in a very good mood.

Lin Wan finished washing up, and Xiao Yun had already made breakfast.

It was still Jade Bud Rice Porridge, but with two fried eggs and a side dish.

The two were eating when Liu Ruyan also pushed the door and came out.

She had changed into a clean dress and her hair was simply tied up.

Although she was not wearing any makeup, there was a bit more brightness and liveliness in her brows and eyes than before.

Her cultivation base had firmly stabilized at Qi Refining Stage Level 1, and was close to the Peak of Level 1!

"Congratulations, Ruyan, your cultivation has improved."

Lin Wan smiled.

Liu Ruyan blushed and bowed gracefully: "It is all thanks to Senior Brother... for the help."

By the time she finished, her voice was as thin as a mosquito's.

Xiao Yun was also happy for her: "Sister Ruyan, you look much more energetic!"

Liu Ruyan nodded and sat at the table, sipping porridge, but her eyes occasionally glanced at Lin Wan with a bit of shyness and tenderness.

Breakfast ended in a slightly subtle but harmonious atmosphere.

After the meal, Lin Wan instructed: "I am going to turn in the mission today and exchange for some things by the way. You two stay home and Cultivate well. Xiao Yun, do not slack off on your 'Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique'. Ruyan, you have just broken through, you need to consolidate your Realm, and you should also read more of that Spiritual Plant compendium."

"Yes, Senior Brother (Big Brother Lin)." The two women replied.

Lin Wan packed his things and was about to go out when he suddenly remembered something.

He took out two small jade Talismans from his arms (actually from the System space) and handed them to the two women.

"These are 'Message Talismans', keep them close to you. If you encounter danger, crush the jade Talisman, and I will immediately perceive your location. Although the Sect is relatively safe, one must always be on guard against others."

These Message Talismans were exchanged with Fortune Points.

A pair only cost 10 points, but they could save lives at critical moments.

Xiao Yun and Liu Ruyan took the jade Talismans and held them tightly in their palms, a warm current surging in their hearts.

Lin Wan's attentiveness and care made them feel more at ease.

"We will wait for you to come back."

Liu Ruyan said softly.

Lin Wan nodded and turned to go out.

Walking on the way to the Mission Hall, Lin Wan could feel that after last night's Dual Cultivation, not only his cultivation base but also his five senses, reactions, and even his perception of Spiritual Qi had a slight improvement.

The harmony of Yin and Yang was indeed mysterious.

The Mission Hall was still coming and going with people.

Lin Wan found the Deacon on duty and handed over thirty Bloodline Grasses.

The Deacon Disciple counted them correctly, recorded 30 Contribution Points in Lin Wan's identity jade token, and also calculated the extra three Bloodline Grasses at a discounted price of 1.5 Contribution Points.

"Thirty-one point five Contribution Points, not bad."

Lin Wan put away the jade token.

Contribution Points could be used to exchange for Cultivation Techniques and Spells in the Sect's Scripture Pavilion, and Medicinal Pills and Magical Artifacts in the Treasure Pavilion, which was very useful.

He did not leave immediately but went to the Scripture Pavilion first.

The Scripture Pavilion was located in the central area of the Outer Sect and was a three-story simple wooden building.

The first floor was open to all Outer Sect Disciples and collected mostly Qi Refining Stage Cultivation Techniques and basic Spells.

The second floor required Inner Sect Disciple authority or special contributions.

The third floor was the Sect's core Legacy, which could not be entered unless one was an Elder or a personally transmitted Disciple.

Lin Wan walked into the first floor, where many Disciples were already browsing Jade Slips.

The air was filled with a faint scent of books and the clear fragrance of spiritual wood.

He walked to the Spell area and began to browse.

The Qingyun Sect was known for its Sword Cultivators and Wood-attribute techniques, and the collected Spells were also mainly of this type.

Lin Wan's current attack methods were single, only basic sword techniques and Wind Control Technique, so he urgently needed to supplement them.

"'Geng Metal Formula': Metal-attribute basic Spell, can condense Geng Metal Qi, sharp and unparalleled. Can be cultivated at Qi Refining Stage Level 4. Requires 15 Contribution Points."

"'Vine Technique': Wood-attribute control Spell, can summon vines to bind enemies. Can be cultivated at Qi Refining Stage Level 3. Requires 12 Contribution Points."

"'Fireball Technique': Fire-attribute attack Spell, condenses fireballs to attack. Can be cultivated at Qi Refining Stage Level 3. Requires 10 Contribution Points."

"'Earth Wall Technique': Earth-attribute defense Spell, condenses earth walls to block attacks. Can be cultivated at Qi Refining Stage Level 4. Requires 13 Contribution Points."

"'Water Healing Technique': Water-attribute healing Spell, can treat minor injuries. Can be cultivated at Qi Refining Stage Level 3. Requires 8 Contribution Points."

Lin Wan thought for a while and chose the "Geng Metal Formula", "Vine Technique", and "Water Healing Technique".

Attack, control, and healing—the basic combination was complete.

As for the Fireball Technique, he had Fireball Talismans to replace it for the time being.

Although the Earth Wall Technique had good defense, it consumed a lot of energy, and he already had leather armor for protection, so he would not consider it for the time being.

The three Spells cost a total of 35 Contribution Points.

His newly earned 31.5 points were not enough, so he supplemented it with 3.5 Low-Grade Spirit Stones.

After the exchange, Lin Wan did not leave immediately and went to the miscellaneous study area.

There were mostly basic knowledge of Alchemy, Artifact Refining, Talisman-making, and Formations collected here, as well as some travelogues, geographies, and Yao Beast compendiums.

Liu Ruyan was interested in Alchemy, so Lin Wan spent 5 Contribution Points to exchange for a "Basic Alchemy Notes", which were the notes of a Sect Alchemist apprentice.

Although it was shallow, it was perfect for beginners.

Afterward, he went to the Treasure Pavilion and used 10 Contribution Points to exchange for ten portions of Materials for "Qi Gathering Powder".

Qi Gathering Powder was the most basic Grade 1 Low Grade Medicinal Pill, which could slightly accelerate the cultivation speed of Qi Refining Stage Cultivators.

He planned to let Liu Ruyan try Alchemy, which could not only be used for practice, but the pills refined could also be used by themselves or sold.

After some spending, the Contribution Points were cleared, and there were only more than thirty Low-Grade Spirit Stones left.

But Lin Wan felt it was worth it.

Resources invested in himself and his Dao Companions would sooner or later bring returns.

When he returned to his residence, it was already noon.

Xiao Yun had made lunch, and Liu Ruyan was practicing the guidance movements of the "Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique" in the courtyard.

Her posture was graceful, and she already had a bit of charm.

"Senior Brother is back."

Liu Ruyan finished her practice, with fine sweat on her forehead, but her spirit was very good.

"Mm, I brought you something."

Lin Wan handed the "Basic Alchemy Notes" and the Materials for Qi Gathering Powder to Liu Ruyan, and then stuck the three Jade Slips recording the Spells to his forehead.

After memorizing the contents, he handed them to Liu Ruyan as well, "You can also comprehend these Spells. Although you cannot cast them, understanding the principles will also be helpful when facing the enemy."

Liu Ruyan took them and saw the Alchemy Notes, her eyes lit up: "Thank you, Senior Brother!"

[part:gemini-3.5-flash]

Xiao Yun also leaned in curiously. Although she didn't know many characters, she was full of yearning for matters of immortal cultivation.

During lunch, Lin Wan shared his plans: "Ruyan, since you are interested in Alchemy, start by practicing with this Qi Gathering Powder. Although I do not understand the Dao of Alchemy, I have some theories I can discuss with you. It doesn't matter if you fail; what's important is gaining experience."

"Xiao Yun, your task is to nurse your body back to health and Cultivate the Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique. In a few days, I will find a suitable martial art for you."

"As for me, I need to enter seclusion for a period of time to charge into the seventh layer of Qi Refining. I will leave the household affairs to you two."

The two women listened intently and nodded in agreement.

After lunch, Lin Wan set up a simple soundproofing Restriction in the room and began his seclusion.

He sat cross-legged and adjusted his breathing for a moment to bring his state to its Peak. Then, he took out the wooden box containing the Foundation Establishment Pill and opened it.

A round, longan-sized Medicinal Pill emitting a faint golden glow lay quietly in the box. Three cloud patterns adorned its surface, releasing a refreshing, exotic fragrance. Just a single sniff made him feel refreshed and his spiritual energy active.

"It really is a Foundation Establishment Pill, and of Three-Revolution quality, which is considered above average." Lin Wan nodded with satisfaction and carefully put it away. This pill could not be used now; it had to be saved for when he reached the Great Perfection of Qi Refining.

Next, he began to Cultivate.

As the Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique circulated, the spiritual energy in his Dantian surged like a rushing river. The residual Qi of Yin-Yang creation from last night's Dual Cultivation was stirred, blending seamlessly with his own spiritual energy, making it even more pure and agile.

At the same time, he reviewed the three new Spells he had learned in his mind.

The Geng Metal Formula emphasized condensing Qi into a sharp edge, making it indestructible. Metal-attribute Spells already possessed strong offensive power, and paired with the Green Steel Sword, its power increased even further.

The Vine Technique was a wood-attribute control Spell, requiring one to communicate with the essence of plants and trees using their own spiritual energy to condense vines. This Spell was more powerful in places with lush vegetation, and its consumption was relatively low.

The Water Healing Technique was a life-saving Spell; although its healing ability was limited, it might be useful in an emergency.

Time flew by during his cultivation.

In the blink of an eye, three days passed.

During these three days, Lin Wan did not step outside, dedicating himself to cultivation. When hungry, he took Fasting Pills; when thirsty, he drank Spiritual Spring Water. Liu Ruyan and Xiao Yun were also very sensible and never disturbed him, only placing meals outside his door on time (even though Lin Wan did not eat them).

Xiao Yun's Turtle-Crane Longevity Technique had already reached Minor Achievement. Her complexion grew better and better, and her strength had increased significantly, allowing her to lift a bucket weighing dozens of catties with a single hand. Liu Ruyan, on the other hand, was absorbed in the Alchemy Notes and the Spiritual Plant Guidebook, memorizing the recipe and refining steps of the Qi Gathering Powder by heart, though she had not yet put them into practice—Alchemy required a Pill Furnace and earth fire, which they currently lacked.

On the evening of the third day, a soft hum echoed from within Lin Wan's body.

Within his Dantian, the misty cyclone spun and compressed violently, finally condensing into an egg-sized, more solid mass of spiritual energy! At the center of this mass, a seventh spiritual energy vortex was faintly forming!

The seventh layer of Qi Refining was achieved!

It was a natural progression, without encountering any Bottlenecks. The Foundation consolidated by Dual Cultivation, combined with the cultivation level enhanced by the System being inherently stable, made the Breakthrough logical and smooth.

Lin Wan opened his eyes, a sharp light flashing across them before vanishing, and the aura around him was more than a notch stronger than it had been three days ago!

"The Late Stage of Qi Refining is indeed different." Feeling the surging spiritual energy in his body, a smile appeared at the corner of his mouth. The seventh layer of Qi Refining was a watershed, marking his official entry into the Late Stage of Qi Refining. His total spiritual energy and purity had both increased significantly, allowing him to Cultivate more and stronger Spells, causing his strength to skyrocket.

"With my current strength, if I encounter the Black Water Mysterious Python again, although I can't say I will definitely win, at least I will have the power to fight and won't be completely defenseless."

He stood up, stretched his limbs, and pushed open the bedroom door.

As the sun set, the afterglow filled the small courtyard. Liu Ruyan was practicing the guiding movements of the Yin-Yang Harmony Guidance Technique in the yard. Her posture was elegant and dancing, already showing a hint of otherworldly grace. Xiao Yun was busy in front of the stove, and the aroma of food wafted over.

Hearing the door open, both women turned to look at the same time.

"Senior Brother, you have emerged from seclusion!" Liu Ruyan said joyfully, then felt the deeper and more powerful aura on Lin Wan, her beautiful eyes widening. "Senior Brother, you broke through?!"

Xiao Yun also ran over, her face full of admiration. "Brother Lin, you are amazing!"

Lin Wan smiled and nodded. "I broke through by luck. You've worked hard these past few days."

"It's not hard!" Xiao Yun shook her head. "Sister Ruyan and I are doing very well. Sister Ruyan has memorized the Alchemy Notes, and my fist technique has also improved!"

Liu Ruyan felt a bit embarrassed. "It's just theoretical talk on paper; I haven't practiced it yet."

"No matter, I will find a way regarding the Pill Furnace and earth fire," Lin Wan said. Once he had enough Contribution Points or Spirit Stones, he could rent the Sect's public Pill Refining Room, or directly buy the lowest-grade Pill Furnace and Charcoal to practice with first.

Dinner was exceptionally sumptuous. Xiao Yun prepared three dishes and a soup, and even steamed a small pot of spiritual rice to celebrate Lin Wan's Breakthrough.

At the dining table, Lin Wan asked about the situation outside over the past few days.

Liu Ruyan said, "I went to the market yesterday to buy spices and heard people say that Zhao Hu and his three lackeys have gone missing. The Deacon Hall is currently investigating. However, in a place like Black Wind Valley, the disappearance of a few Outer Sect Disciples is very common, so they probably won't find anything."

Lin Wan's heart stirred, but his expression remained unchanged. "Oh? Zhao Hu went missing? What a coincidence."

Liu Ruyan glanced at Lin Wan and did not ask further. She was extremely intelligent; Lin Wan had returned that day with blood on him and had acquired the Ghost Head Saber, and then Zhao Hu went missing shortly after... She could vaguely guess the connection, but she would never speak of it.

Xiao Yun, on the other hand, was completely oblivious and only said worriedly, "It's best if an evil person like Zhao Hu is dead. But Brother Lin, you must be more careful when you go to the back mountain in the future."

"I know." Lin Wan nodded, but thought in his heart: Zhao Hu's uncle and that Senior Brother Zhou probably won't let this go. I must increase my strength as quickly as possible and find a way to learn more about the inner Sect's situation.

Just as he was thinking, a sudden knock came from outside the courtyard gate.

"Knock, knock, knock."

The sound was neither fast nor slow, but carried a certain specific rhythm.

Lin Wan frowned. He didn't have any friends in the outer Sect, so who would come to visit?

"I'll go open the door." Xiao Yun stood up.

"Be careful." Lin Wan signaled for Liu Ruyan to follow as well, while his own Divine Sense quietly extended outward.

The courtyard gate opened, and standing outside was a young man in blue Inner Sect Disciple robes, with a pale, hairless face and slightly gloomy eyes. He was about twenty-five or twenty-six years old, and his cultivation was impressively at the eighth layer of Qi Refining! Behind him followed two Outer Sect Deacon Disciples, both of whom had cultivations at the fifth or sixth layer of Qi Refining.

"Is this the residence of Junior Brother Lin Wan?" the gloomy youth spoke, his voice flat but carrying a condescending tone.

Xiao Yun was a bit nervous. "Y-yes. May I ask who you are..."

"Inner Sect Disciple, Zhou Zihao," the youth said indifferently. "Have Lin Wan come out to see me."

Zhou Zihao!

That Senior Brother Zhou behind Zhao Hu! He had actually come to his doorstep!

Inside the room, Lin Wan's heart sank, but his expression remained unchanged as he stood up and walked out.

"Senior Brother Zhou, your grand arrival honors us, please forgive me for not welcoming you sooner." Lin Wan walked into the courtyard, cupped his hands in greeting, neither humble nor arrogant. "May I ask what guidance Senior Brother Zhou has for seeking Lin?"

Zhou Zihao's gaze fell upon Lin Wan, sizing him up from head to toe, a trace of surprise flashing in his eyes. The information he had received said that Lin Wan was a waste at the first layer of Qi Refining, yet the person before him was clearly at the seventh layer of Qi Refining! Furthermore, his aura was solid and his Foundation stable, by no means looking like someone who had just broken through.

"The seventh layer of Qi Refining? It seems Junior Brother Lin has been hiding his light under a bushel." Zhou Zihao smiled half-heartedly. "I came today for one matter. I have an Outer Sect Disciple under me named Zhao Hu, who went to Black Wind Valley three days ago to do a mission and has not returned since. Someone saw that when he last appeared, he was with you, Junior Brother Lin. I wonder if Junior Brother Lin knows his whereabouts?"

As expected, it was for Zhao Hu!

Lin Wan sneered in his heart, but on his face, he showed a look of surprise. "Senior Brother Zhao Hu has gone missing? This... Three days ago at the Mission Hall, I indeed had a brief encounter with Senior Brother Zhao. He even asked me to consider joining his team. However, my cultivation level was low, and I didn't dare to drag him down, so I politely declined. I haven't seen Senior Brother Zhao since then. Why, did something happen to him?"

His expression was sincere, and his eyes carried just the right amount of concern and confusion, as if he were truly completely unaware.

Zhou Zihao stared at Lin Wan for a long while, as if trying to find a flaw on his face. But Lin Wan had lived two lives and possessed extremely strong psychological quality; how could he easily show any weakness?

"Oh? Junior Brother Lin really hasn't seen Zhao Hu again?" Zhou Zihao said slowly. "But I heard that before Zhao Hu disappeared, he seemed to be tracking down something. And that thing is related to the Liu Family Siblings. And Liu Ruyan of the Liu Family Siblings is currently here with you, Junior Brother Lin, right?"

His gaze swept toward Liu Ruyan behind Lin Wan, his eyes sharp.

Liu Ruyan's face turned pale, and she subconsciously grabbed the hem of Lin Wan's clothes.

Lin Wan stepped half a pace to the side, blocking Liu Ruyan from view, and said calmly, "Ruyan is indeed here with me. She is my Dao Companion and a distant relative of the Liu Family Siblings, who came to seek shelter with me. As for the 'thing' Senior Brother Zhou mentioned, this Lin does not know. Ruyan, do you know?"

Liu Ruyan shook her head, her voice trembling slightly. "I-I don't know. I haven't seen my cousins for a long time and don't know about their affairs."

Zhou Zihao's eyes narrowed slightly, and a Spiritual Pressure of the eighth layer of Qi Refining was slowly released, enveloping the entire small courtyard. "Junior Brother Lin, I advise you to think carefully. Zhao Hu is my man. Since he went missing, I must investigate it thoroughly. If I find out someone is hiding something... the methods of an Inner Sect Disciple are not something you can imagine."

The Spiritual Pressure was like a mountain, and Xiao Yun and Liu Ruyan immediately found it difficult to breathe, their faces turning pale. Lin Wan also felt the pressure, but with his cultivation at the seventh layer of Qi Refining, coupled with a Divine Soul strength far exceeding his peers (a benefit of being a transmigrator?), he could still withstand it.

He circulated his spiritual energy to protect the two women behind him, straightened his back, and looked directly at Zhou Zihao. "This Lin does not understand Senior Brother Zhou's words. I also deeply regret Senior Brother Zhao Hu's disappearance. However, without any evidence, Senior Brother Zhou has come to my residence to demand answers and even use pressure to intimidate me. Isn't this somewhat lacking the demeanor of an inner Sect Senior Brother? If Senior Brother Zhou has evidence proving that this Lin is related to Senior Brother Zhao Hu's disappearance, you can go to the Deacon Hall and ask the Law Enforcement Disciples to arrest me. If there is no evidence, please leave."

He pushed back in a manner neither too soft nor too hard.

A cold light flashed in Zhou Zihao's eyes. He indeed had no evidence. The four of Zhao Hu's group had been killed in Black Wind Valley, their bodies destroyed, and all traces erased, which was clearly the work of an experienced hand. He suspected Lin Wan, firstly because the last person Zhao Hu contacted was Lin Wan, and secondly because Liu Ruyan was here, while the Liu Family Siblings had disappeared with the Foundation Establishment Pill. But he had no substantive evidence, and Lin Wan had suddenly displayed a cultivation of the seventh layer of Qi Refining, making him somewhat hesitant to act.

Going from the first layer of Qi Refining to the seventh layer in just over a month? This was absolutely not something a waste could achieve! This kid either had an astonishing fortuitous encounter, or had someone backing him! Whichever it was, it was not advisable to immediately fall out with him.

"Very well." Zhou Zihao withdrew his Spiritual Pressure and gave Lin Wan a deep look. "Junior Brother Lin indeed has great courage. I hope you really have nothing to do with Zhao Hu's disappearance. Otherwise... we will meet again."

He turned and left with the two deacon Disciples.

Not until the figures of the three disappeared did Xiao Yun's legs go soft, almost collapsing to the ground. Liu Ruyan's face was also pale, lingering fear in her heart.

"Senior Brother, will he... will he..." Liu Ruyan said worriedly.

"No matter." Lin Wan supported the two women, his eyes cold. "He has no evidence, so he doesn't dare to act openly. But his underhanded methods will likely not be few. From today onward, do not go out alone. I will find a way as quickly as possible to improve our strength and self-defense capabilities."

He looked in the direction Zhou Zihao had left, a strong sense of urgency welling up in his heart.

The seventh layer of Qi Refining was still not enough! Far from enough!

He had to become stronger even faster!

And the fastest way to become stronger... besides cultivation, was the System!

His gaze couldn't help but look at the two women beside him, and then toward the distance.

It seemed that the "Many Children, Many Blessings" plan had to be accelerated.