mtl008 Chapter 245 Negotiating Cooperation, Li's Probing
Chapter 245 Negotiating Cooperation, Li's Probing
Qingquan Island, inside the reception room.
Lin Changsheng and Steward Gu sat facing each other.
The two savored the fragrant tea, their expressions light and their conversation harmonious.
Before long, Steward Gu handed over a storage bag, smiling broadly as he spoke:
"Brother Lin, this is a special blessing from our 'Xuanmiao' Chamber of Commerce to congratulate Fellow Daoist Chichong on his advancement."
"Thank you very much, Senior Gu. I, Lin, will accept this on behalf of Red Worm."
Lin Changsheng accepted the storage bag without hesitation, did not check it immediately, thanked him with a smile, and then put it away.
Although he was a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, as the master of a third-tier great demon, he was confident and did not need to be too humble in front of a fake Core Formation cultivator.
Otherwise, you're more likely to be looked down upon.
"Brother Lin, there is something I am very curious about. I heard that when Fellow Daoist Chichong was advancing in his cultivation, you used a third-tier talisman to protect him and successfully repelled True Man Yu Huai. Could it be that you know a third-tier talisman master? If so, could you please introduce me to him? Whether it works out or not, I will definitely offer you a token of my appreciation afterward."
During the conversation, Steward Gu suddenly changed the subject and gave Lin Changsheng a meaningful look.
Having said that, he took a sip of the spiritual tea, offered a casual compliment, and then fell silent, seemingly waiting for Lin Changsheng's reaction.
"hehe."
Lin Changsheng also took a sip of spiritual tea, looking at Steward Gu with a smile, but remained silent.
But deep down he knew that the other party was testing him.
A third-tier talisman master can create talismans whose power surpasses that of a fake elixir.
They belong to the category of high-level craftsmen.
Throughout the entire Great Wilderness, there are not many rune masters of the third rank or above, and each of them is renowned and has their own affiliation.
In recent months, the Li family seems to have been intentionally publicizing the fact that Lin Changsheng and Li Chongyuan have joined forces to fight against Yu Huai Zhenren.
This will enhance the reputation of the Li family in Dafang Township.
Therefore, Lin Changsheng's name quickly became known to the major forces in the vicinity.
It was no secret that he possessed third-tier magical talismans.
"To be honest, senior, I myself possess the skills of alchemy and talisman making. Otherwise, as a rogue cultivator, I wouldn't have been able to cultivate a third-tier great demon, would I?"
After a moment's thought, Lin Changsheng readily admitted it.
the reason is simple.
Firstly, he is already in the late stage of Foundation Establishment, and with the added intimidation of a third-tier demon, the exposure of his third-tier talisman-making skills will not bring him too much risk. On the contrary, it reasonably explains the source of his wealth in raising third-tier demons.
Secondly, if they do not take the initiative to admit it and instead try to cover it up, it will arouse suspicion from outsiders, and even from the Li family of Dafang Township, who will wonder if they have obtained some relics or something, and that they possess a lot of wealth, which is why they fled to this place from the outside world.
Thirdly, the materials used to craft talismans of rank three and above are extremely precious, unlike rank two which are much more common. Their purchase and sale are strictly recorded. Unless one intends to completely abandon the art of talisman crafting, routinely purchasing rank three talisman materials will eventually expose oneself. Actively exposing oneself and negotiating cooperation with the 'Xuanmiao' Chamber of Commerce is the only way to achieve a win-win situation.
"So Brother Lin is actually proficient in both alchemy and talisman-making techniques!"
"In that case, you really are exceptionally gifted!"
Although he had suspected it before coming, Steward Gu was still slightly moved and showed surprise after Lin Changsheng confirmed it himself.
Prior to this, the outside world's impression of Lin Changsheng was only that of a "second-tier mid-grade alchemist" and a "third-tier great demon master".
The most discussed topic among the surrounding cultivators was still the 'third-tier great demon'.
Under such dazzling light, he himself appeared quite ordinary.
But if you add a 'third-tier rune master', then it's a different story.
Even at the late Foundation Establishment stage, he was proficient in two money-making skills: alchemy and talisman making, which shows his exceptional talent.
In this way, it seems quite reasonable that a third-tier great demon could be cultivated.
"Senior Gu, you flatter me. I only have a rudimentary understanding of some minor skills, nothing to mention."
Lin Changsheng smiled modestly and asked casually:
"May I ask what brings Senior Gu to inquire about a third-tier talisman master?"
"Tsk tsk, my brother has really impressed me. Since that's the case, I'll just say it directly..."
When Lin Changsheng asked him so directly, Steward Gu seemed to still be in a state of surprise.
However, the traces of 'performance' were indeed quite heavy.
Finally, the two began discussing the matter of cooperation.
Back when Lin Changsheng was cultivating immortality in Yue Kingdom, he used his relationship with Zhao Wanning to gain a thorough understanding of the ins and outs of the Chamber of Commerce.
During the conversation, Steward Gu saw that Lin Changsheng was so knowledgeable about the Chamber of Commerce's affairs that he must have cooperated with the Chamber of Commerce before, so he stopped beating around the bush.
During the conversation, Lin Changsheng learned that the current third-tier talisman master of the 'Xuanmiao' Chamber of Commerce had suffered an arm injury during an attack by high-level water bandits a few years ago, which affected his talisman-making ability.
His disciple, whose talisman-making skills were the best, had only barely reached the threshold of 'quasi-third rank'.
Therefore, during this gap period when there is no one to fill the vacancy, Xuanmiao Chamber of Commerce urgently needs to find a third-tier talisman master.
Unfortunately, after searching the entire Great Wilderness Marsh, all the third-tier rune masters had fixed affiliations and cooperative forces.
It just so happens that Lin Changsheng recently revealed his third-tier magic talisman, so the Xuanmiao Chamber of Commerce took this opportunity to try their luck.
……
The three-stage celebration has come to a close.
The Li clan's ancestral land in Dafang Township is gradually returning to its former tranquility.
But everyone in the Li clan knows that a third-tier great demon has taken up residence in their clan territory.
Moreover, Lin Danshi, who has been unknown and has a very low profile for many years, and is always amiable to everyone, is actually a 'third-level talisman master'!
This made all the cultivators in Dafang Township feel proud and even more confident.
Don't worry about being bullied by that Master Yu Huai.
On this day, the restrictions outside Lin Changsheng's Qingquan Island were triggered.
A faint aura of golden core energy wafted over, and the newcomer was none other than Li Chongyuan.
Lin Changsheng personally went out to greet him.
"Senior Li, it's been a long time. Please come in and have a chat."
"Haha, how have you been, Master Lin?"
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Li Chongyuan declined Lin Changsheng's invitation, but subtly glanced at the Crimson Centipede in the center of Eye Island.
"Master Lin, because Fellow Daoist 'Red Insect' has advanced to the third rank, the reputation of the Li family of Dafang Township has soared. Many remote forces are interested in cooperating with us, so I need to go out for a trip."
"I'm just worried that Master Yu Huai might take advantage of the situation. With my wife's mere pseudo-core cultivation level, I'm afraid she won't be able to hold out alone, therefore..."
Li Chongyuan seemed somewhat troubled, speaking haltingly and glancing frequently in the direction of the Crimson Centipede, as if hinting at something.
"Senior Li, rest assured, if the Li family encounters a crisis, we, Master and Pet, will do our utmost to help."
Lin Changsheng instantly understood and said calmly.
"That's good. With Master Lin speaking up, I can go out with peace of mind."
Having received the assurance, Li Chongyuan seemed greatly relieved, his smile as warm as a spring breeze, and he thanked him repeatedly.
Half a day later, Li Chongyuan made no attempt to conceal his inner energy aura and left the Li clan's territory.
On Qingquan Island, Lin Changsheng gazed into the distance, his expression calm and his eyes deep.
A pale green demon infant was chattering incessantly in his ear.
"Young Lin, just as you predicted, that old bastard is hiding underwater more than ten miles away."
Lin Changsheng smiled at this, seemingly unconcerned.
This was a test from Li Chongyuan, or rather, from the Li family of Dafang Township.
As an outsider, if I am not willing to be completely bound to the Li family and share their glory and disgrace, it is impossible for me to gain their complete trust.
This was confirmed in Xi Danhe's family in his early years.
This situation would have been better a few years ago.
But now the Crimson Centipede has advanced to a third-tier great demon, and I have transformed from a weak alchemist into a deeply hidden third-tier talisman master, whose true combat strength is no weaker than that of a fake alchemist.
For the Li family, this was tantamount to having a ferocious beast lurking beside their bed, watching them intently.
Naturally, he found it difficult to eat or sleep.
"Young Lin, why don't I take Little Insect and sneak over there to kill that old codger soaking in the water? From now on, the Li family will respect you as their master."
"I think that old man's wife, Lady Qu, is still quite charming. Since that girl surnamed Zhao and her former maids aren't here, why don't you take Lady Qu into your household..."
The demonic infant of the Aoki King Butterfly danced and gestured vividly, becoming more and more enthusiastic as it spoke.
Upon hearing this, Lin Changsheng's face darkened, and he immediately activated the restriction to force the demonic infant back into the dark wood where it resided.
My ears were instantly quiet.
……
In the days that followed, Lin Changsheng activated the restrictions on Qingquan Island, completely isolating it from the outside world.
No one in the entire Li family knew what was happening on the island.
Within the clan's territory, Qu Jiao would listen to reports from her clansmen every so often, a look of relief appearing in her eyes.
"It seems this Alchemist Lin is quite well-behaved..."
Another half year has passed.
During this period, the restrictions on Qingquan Island were lifted only twice.
One time, Qu Jiao visited and received a batch of pills from Lin Changsheng.
Another time, Steward Gu visited and brought Lin Changsheng a lot of materials for third-tier magic talismans.
The two had agreed beforehand that Lin Changsheng only needed to create a low-grade third-tier magic talisman.
They don't mind a lower success rate, as long as they can guarantee the quantity, they are willing to invest more materials.
Medium-grade and above talismans are not as popular as low-grade third-tier talismans, and are still drawn by the original talisman masters of Xuanmiao Chamber of Commerce.
In addition, there is Chen An'an, who left back then, who has now taken the initiative to come to Lin Changsheng's door and beg to serve him as a maid again.
Lin Changsheng ignored this and didn't even bother to lift the restrictions on people outside the island.
The woman came three or four times, but seeing no hope, she had to leave disappointed.
After some time, Jin Dan Zhenren Li Chongyuan returned looking travel-worn.
The day after returning to his ancestral home, he and his wife, Qu Jiao, visited the island.
He expressed his deep gratitude to Lin Changsheng in his words.
It seems that during the half-year he was away, the Li family of Dafang Township was able to remain safe and sound thanks to Lin Changsheng and the Chihuang Centipede.
Looking at Li Chongyuan's sincere expression and genuine emotions.
Lin Changsheng also played along, speaking in a humble tone.
Unable to refuse in the end, he accepted a 'specialty' that Li Chongyuan had brought back from other river basins.
……
In the blink of an eye, seven or eight years have passed.
Lin Changsheng is 125 years old.
Over the years, his cultivation within the third-tier spiritual spring has grown rapidly, and his internal mana has improved even more than when he first advanced to the late Foundation Establishment stage.
Over the years, after consuming a large number of 'third-tier' beast cores, the Crimson Centipede's cultivation level became completely stable, and it even made slight progress.
But Lin Changsheng sighed inwardly at this.
This Crimson Centipede was originally born with deficiencies. Later, although it devoured many rare and precious herbs and even underwent bloodline mutation, it was only after being soaked in the Blood Spirit Pool that it managed to break through the bloodline limitations and advance to the third-tier Great Demon realm, becoming a trump card.
However, he knew that once it reached the third tier, the potential of this Crimson Centipede had been basically exhausted, and further advancement would be extremely difficult.
Unless there is another truly extraordinary opportunity or treasure.
However, if Lin Changsheng were to obtain such an opportunity, he would prioritize using it for himself or to cultivate several other monsters with better aptitude, maximizing his advantage.
It can be said that this Crimson Centipede has no further value.
However, Lin Changsheng still reduced the food rations for the other monsters and used nearly half of his personal wealth to invest in the Crimson Centipede.
Since there is no further potential, he can recklessly use various beast cores, secret medicines, and other items to push the Crimson Centipede to the mid-stage or even late-stage of the third tier.
To maximize the value of this insect.
This is where the role of the alchemist becomes apparent.
Finished beast cores were too expensive. After the beast cores collected during the third-tier celebration of the Crimson Centipede were used up, Lin Changsheng mostly entrusted Steward Gu to search for materials and refined them himself.
Although its quality is not as good as a ready-made Tier 3 beast core that can be purchased directly, it has the advantage of being plentiful and filling, making it more cost-effective.
During this period, a major event also occurred in the Li family of Dafang Township.
Master Ma Dan passed away peacefully at the age of 18.
None of his descendants were able to take on the role of the chief alchemist within the Li clan's territory.
Lin Changsheng naturally took on the task of refining the Li family's high-grade pills.
As for some commonly used elixirs, they were all handled by Li Chongyuan's second son, Li Shouye.
After years of guidance from Lin Changsheng, Li Shouye, despite his mediocre talent, still reached the level of a second-tier alchemist.
The success rate of refining ordinary second-grade low-level pills is quite good.
Even under Lin Changsheng's targeted training, Li Shouye was able to barely refine several commonly used second-tier mid-grade pills.
Lin Changsheng offered such dedicated guidance for two reasons, firstly, because he saw that Li Shouye had a good character.
Another reason is that I don't want to waste time refining low-level pills.
During this period, Li Chongyuan went out several times, for varying lengths of time.
Sometimes they can return in just a few months.
But the longest time he was away was two years.
Although Lin Changsheng had been cultivating discreetly on Qingquan Island, he was very clear about Li Chongyuan's location.
Over the years, Li Chongyuan has never gone far away; he has always remained hidden within a radius of several dozen miles.
However, Lin Changsheng ignored this.
Let Li do whatever she wants; it's none of my business.
In any case, every time Li Chongyuan returned from a trip, he would bring him a special 'local specialty' in various ways.
……
This night.
Lin Changsheng exhaled the 'Nether Spirit Pearl', absorbing the essence of the bright moonlight emanating from above the water.
A dark, pale purple aura wafted around Lin Changsheng.
Since arriving in Da Ye Ze, he has never stopped refining and nurturing the Netherworld Pearl, doing so day after day for ten years.
For some reason, whenever the night is deep and quiet, the nourishing effect of the Netherworld Pearl is far greater than when it was in the Yue Kingdom.
Suddenly, as if sensing something, he put away the Netherworld Pearl.
Before long, Li Chongyuan's voice came from the restricted area outside the island.
"Master Lin, since Fellow Daoist Crimson Insect's advancement, it seems you haven't fought against any demonic beasts of the same rank yet, have you? It just so happens that an unknown third-rank demonic beast has appeared near my clan's territory. Would you and Fellow Daoist Crimson Insect be interested in joining me to hunt it down?"