Рубрика: Путешествие к бессмертию

Chapter 374: Cultivation is Timeless

Time passed day after day.

Apart from maturing spiritual herbs and refining the required Yellow Dragon Pills and Golden Marrow Pills, Han Li refined Qi in bitter meditation the entire time. He also periodically trained the white spiders and other wondrous insects in accordance to the Controlling Spirit Sect Cultivators Insect Cultivation Insights. This could be considered his sole joy during his cultivation.

Han Li estimated that it would take him about a year to enter the ninth layer of Qi Condensation, a speed that was swift as wind when compared to his original speed.

However, Han Li was still somewhat unsatisfied at this speed. After he reached the ninth layer, he steeled his resolve to take three Foundation Establishment Pills in succession. By using its immensely strong medicinal power, Han Li only took another year to enter Foundation Establishment.

Now, he was able to make use of Innate Truefire.

Han Li immediately ceased taking low-grade medicine pills and started to refine medicine pills that would be more suitable for a Foundation Establishment cultivator.

According to Han Lis assumptions, the Qi Refining Powder would have no effect on him because he had previously taken too much of it. As for the other three pill recipes, they should be able to vigorously advance him to late Foundation Establishment without question.

But, as according to his original plans, Han Li wasnt going to immediately deepen his cultivation. Instead, he would only stockpile medicines and cultivate the Great Development Technique in preparation to refine a clone.

In the past, Han Li only needed half a year to cultivate the Great Development Technique to the first layer and receive its exceptional benefits.

Although Han Li felt gloomy about his inferior aptitude for elemental magic techniques, he had significant talent for the Great Development Technique. Thus, Han Li held much confidence in cultivating to the second layer of the Great Development Technique.

According to the incomplete collection of the Great Development Technique, his spiritual sense would be several times stronger and he would also be able to separate his consciousness into over a hundred different strands. When combined with the puppet technique, the frightening potential of the Great Development Technique would be fully displayed.

Although he knew that cultivating to the second layer would be more difficult than the first, it took far more time than Han Li had anticipated. He had originally believed that it would only take him three years to reach the second layer of the Great Development Technique, but Han Li discovered that it would take six years of diligent cultivation for him to barely reach the second layer. As this would take twice the time that he had anticipated, Han Li felt extremely helpless.

When Han Li recalled the head-splitting torture he endured while forcefully cultivating the technique, Han Li turned pale and felt great trepidation.

During the third year of cultivating the Great Development Technique, the disciple of the middle-aged cultivator from the Immortal Records Pavilion came under orders to challenge Han Li at Minor Expanse Island.

As a result, he had been trapped in Han Lis formations for three entire days before Han Li happened to take notice of him and released him.

Due to the difficulty of cultivating the Great Development Technique, Han Li had completely forgotten about this matter.

Using his nameless Qi Restraining Technique to hide his true cultivation, Han Li managed to win by the slightest margin. Under the belief that Han Li had only won due to his slightly superior magic tools, the flustered man who had been trapped within the formation spells for several days could only resentfully return.

Another three years later, Han Li finally managed to cultivate to the second layer of the Great Development Technique and now prepared to cultivate the External Reincarnation Technique.

He first thoroughly relaxed for several days. With his soul at its peak state, he called for Crooked Soul to enter his hidden practice room and sit cross-legged in front of him.

Han Li waved his arm, shutting the stone door to the room and staring at Crooked Soul with rapt attention in long silence. frewebovel.cm

Having seen Crooked Souls ugly yet familiar face, surges of emotion flowed through Han Lis heart. He recalled matters he had long and quickly forgotten: the Seven Mysteries Sect, the Rainbow Mountains, and a certain familiar figure…

But after staring at Crooked Souls cold, soulless gaze, Han Li let out a sigh. With no further hesitation, Han Li formed a windmill-shaped incantation gesture with his hands, and his body released a weak green light, turning the whole room dark green in color.

Not long after that, Han Lis face slightly grimaced in the green light and fine beads of sweat started to form on his forehead. A blinding white radiance then shot out from his eyes that none would dare to look at.

HA! Han Li suddenly let out a roar as his hands formed a strange incantation gesture. Though his body was still, he snorted out a thumb-sized green ball of light. It quickly flew into Crooked Souls nostril and entered the rest of his body.

At this moment, Han Li was deathly pale with huge beads of sweat dripping down from his face, but the blinding light from his eyes became even brighter. Two fine streaks of white light then shot out from his eyes into Crooked Souls. Han Lis and Crooked Souls bodies then simultaneously shivered.

The stone door of the hidden practice room remained closed for an entire month. In the middle of the next month, the stone door of the hidden room slowly opened, revealing a haggard but extremely excited Han Li.

The clone refinement had been a bitter and tortuous struggle, but it had eventually resulted in success. Although he didnt know precisely how it turned out, he knew that at the very least he hadnt failed, and there was no cultivation backlash, much to Han Lis relief.

But immediately after Han Li left the hidden room, he entered another room and went into seclusion. The clone refinement had significantly damaged his Origin Qi. If he didnt immediately take medicine and refine his Qi, there was a danger that he would once again drop down to the Qi Condensation Stage.

As for the refined clone, Crooked Soul, it continued to remain in the hidden room. The thread of consciousness had yet to completely control the corpse and was being broken in.

After a few short months, Han Li had fully recovered the damage to his Origin Qi, but instead of leaving seclusion, he began to research the Three Essence Revolutions cultivation art.

The Three Essence Revolutions cultivation art clearly stated that when cultivators reached late Foundation Establishment, they were to scatter a majority of their cultivation through the Azure Essence Sword Art and recultivate from early Foundation Establishment stage. This would compress ones true essence and allow one to draw as close as possible to solidification, weakening the bottleneck to the Core Formation Stage.

According to the speculations of the expert who created this cultivation art, after three cycles of recultivation, one should have a fifty percent possibility of forming a golden core.

Although Han Li had unexpectedly scattered his cultivation during mid Foundation Establishment instead of scattering his cultivation when he reached late Foundation Establishment, he didnt care in the least. To Han Li, the difference between scattering ones cultivation during mid Foundation Establishment instead of late Foundation establishment was only a small degree of True Essence condensation. With the main idea of True Essence compression and solidification still at the center, there shouldnt be any big problems if he were to scatter his cultivation two more times from late Foundation Establishment.

After several months of single-minded study of the Three Essence Revolutions cultivation art, he came to a full understanding of the cultivation art and entered his hidden room with a large amount of medicine pills.

He had come to a resolute decision that he wouldnt leave his Immortals cave until he finished the first revolutions of his cultivation art and reached the sixth layer of the Azure Essence Sword Art.

As for Crooked Soul who was now completely fused with Han Lis spiritual sense, Han Li had tirelessly prepared pre-Foundation Establishment medicine pills for him. Because Crooked Soul had spiritual roots with three elements, he had greater aptitude than Han Li who had false spiritual roots with four elements. As a result, Crooked Souls cultivation speed was insanely fast with the assistance of medicine pills, no slower than Han Lis recultivation speed.

According to Han Lis estimates, it would only take two years for him to reach Foundation Establishment.

In addition, Han Li picked out the Devilish Art Divine Blood Light from the jade slip that emitted gray light for Crooked Soul to cultivate after he reached Foundation Establishment. After all, Han Li had personally seen the might of this Devilish Art from the Emperor of Yue himself.

As for the fact that this art didnt have any continuation for Core Formation cultivators, Han Li didnt mind it at all. This was because after Crooked Soul had formed a Fiend Core, he would forever be stuck at early Core Formation. There would be no difference whether or not there was a continuation of the magic art.

Han Lis cultivation session went on for a truly long time!

It was the same as the common saying, Cultivation is timeless. In the mere blink of an eye, over twenty years had passed.

During this large expanse of time, Han Li didnt take a single step outside of his Immortals cave, nor did he show himself to the islands inhabitants. Ever since Han Li arrived at Minor Expanse Island, several hundred of its inhabitants would say that he nearly hadnt affected them at all. If they wanted to fish, they fished, if they wanted to farm, then they farmed!

Naturally, the inhabitants werent too comfortable to discover that their two mountains were now constantly shrouded in a thick white fog. But after such a long period of time, the villagers became accustomed to the scene and no longer took notice of it.

However, the village elder would repeatedly warn the villages mischievous children not to approach the mountains nearby fog under any circumstances. This was because once someone entered the fog, they would disappear without a trace and couldnt come out. Only after suffering several days of entrapment and shouting out Immortal Master Han several times would they discover a path out.

Because this matter had occurred several times, the villagers came to understand that Immortal Han disliked having others bother him.

Apart from wood chopping and fruit picking, no other affairs were carried out near the Minor Expanse Mountains.

As for the yearly expenditure of spirit stones for the protective formation, so long as the village head loudly shouted towards the mountain a few times, the yearly amount of spirit stones would fly out of the white mist on a tray. Those that came for spirit stones never went back empty-handed.

Of course, the original village head had passed away during these twenty years. The current village head was the the dark skinned fisherman Han Li had seen when he first arrived at the island, Hei Gui. However, he still fetched spirit stones in the exact same manner.

As such, while the inhabitants of the island werent particularly loyal towards Immortal Han, they still had a decent impression of him.

Then one day, Han Li walked out of his Immortals cave.

Chapter 373: External Reincarnation

The sole village on this small island was at the east end, near its port. In the west was a small mountain range of about ten kilometers with only two small mountains. The higher mountain was about a kilometer tall, while the shorter one was only about four hundred meters tall.

Han Li gazed at the mountains from afar before suppressing the excitement in his heart, deciding to pay a visit to the village first.

Han Lis and Crooked Souls arrival caused quite a stir. An old man, the self-proclaimed village head, immediately stepped forward to see Han Li.

After letting the old man inspect the gold symbols on the jade slip, the village head immediately declared that the entire village must obey the Great Immortals orders.

Naturally, Han Li didnt have any use for the assistance of mortals. Instead, he asked about the issues he was most concerned with: the general circumstances of the island and the amount of spirit stones the villagers were able to contribute towards maintaining the islands protective formation.

After hearing that the amount added up to almost nothing, Han Li became somewhat gloomy.

Didnt this mean that he had to contribute all of the spirit stones? That middle-aged man said the residents would be contributing a portion of spirit stones consumed by the protective formation. It seemed like those were merely pleasant words. Their help wouldnt amount to anything.

Han Li inwardly cursed at the middle-aged cultivator, but spoke a few reassuring words to the old man. He estimated the amount of spirit stones required and compared it to the old mans estimate of their contribution. Han Li then gave the old man a years worth of spirit stones to sustain the formation spell.

He then told the old man that, in the coming years, he could go to his Immortals cave and pick up the spirit stones required for that year. Then, without paying attention to the old mans repeated thanks, Han Li and Crooked Soul flew towards the islands west side.

Once Han Li entered the mountain range known by the islands inhabitants as the Minor Expanse Mountains, he was whelmed by the feeling of faint Spiritual Qi, causing his heart to stir.

A short moment later, Han Li was standing at the front of his Divine Wind Boat as he circled both mountain peaks.

It was obvious that the Spiritual Qi was richer on the higher mountain peak, but the lower mountain peak was thicker and more solid. Not only was it more suitable for an Immortals cave, it was also the site of a previous cultivators Immortals cave. The present Immortals cave was intact and undamaged, it seemed suitable for immediate occupation.

Han Li sunk into thought for a moment on his Divine Wind Boat. His eyes then flashed with spirited light, and he came to a decision.

He first flew towards the thicker, shorter mountain peak and entered the deepest, most secretive area of the Immortals cave. Afterwards, he fiercely struck the ground with his magic tools.

Half a day later, the initial makings of an underground passage had been created. It had a nine meter diameter and headed straight towards the base of the mountain.

But when Han Lis passage had reached a dozen meters below the mountains base, he suddenly changed direction towards the base of the other mountain over a kilometer away.

Although Han Lis magic tool was incomparably sharp, having Crooked Souls assistance shortened the time required for this massive undertaking to two days.

After carving out a passage between the bases of the mountains, Han Li carved out a new Immortals cave inside of the taller mountain in the style of his old Immortals cave in the Heavenly South Region. This new Immortals cave was cut in exactly the same shape as his old one in the Tai Yue Mountain Range, but this time, there was no exit except for the underground tunnel.

This would be the place where Han Li would cultivate and grow spiritual herbs. Having the original cave dwelling as a cover for the true one, Han Li felt much safer.

After finishing up with his Immortals cave, Han Li then set up the first Five Elements Reversal Formation at the entrance of the shorter, thicker mountain.

But after Han Li flew around the two mountains for a while, he still felt uneasy.

He took out the sets of formation setup tools that Xin Ruyin had given him and chose to deploy two of the more impressive formation, the The Fierce Heavenly Wind Formation and the Illusory Heavensifting Formation.

These two formation spells had a wide range and would cover both of the mountains entirely. Although they werent as wondrous as the Five Elements Reversal Formation, they would still prove to be quite troublesome for Foundation Establishment cultivators. As such, Han Lis cave dwelling would be entirely safe from everything below the level of Core Formation cultivators.

Looking from the sky outside of the formation, the mountains were enshrouded in a misty fog and were hard to make out. Han Li faintly smiled at the sight and slowly descended into the mist, disappearing from sight.

After entering the true Immortals cave, Han Li continually busied himself instead of taking the chance to rest.

First, he established a secretive medicinal garden with a few spiritual herbs. After all, if he wished to mature them, they must first become young sprouts.

Then, Han Li gazed at the bottle as if it were as precious as his own life before burying it in the corner of the garden and covering it with the concealing magic treasure fragment he had bought so long ago. He also made a hidden vent in the cave wall, allowing it to condense the green liquid.

Afterwards, he created several tens of secret rooms of varying sizes in accordance to the Controlling Spirit Sect Cultivators Insect Breeding Insights. He placed the white spiders and other wondrous insects inside them before placing several restrictions nearby to prevent them from running away.

After finishing the most important matters, Han Li decided that it was still not the time to meditate and refine Qi. Instead, he carefully took out the light gray jade slip that he had acquired from the Emperor of Yue. It contained many strange secret techniques including the External Reincarnation Technique he had set his eyes on long ago.

Han Li immersed his spiritual sense into the jade slip and carefully read through the cultivation methods of this technique several times. Afterwards, he withdrew his spiritual sense and began contemplating what he had read. Although Han Li had previously come to a decision, after carefully thinking it over, he felt that cultivating this technique was truly dangerous.

The jade slip clearly said that if his refined clone were to be destroyed, the spiritual sense planted within the clone would be destroyed and irrecoverable. Furthermore, if his remaining spiritual sense wasnt strong enough, it would be greatly damaged. At best, this would result in madness, at worst, he would suffer from Qigong Deviation and perish. In addition, even if he was successful, the External Reincarnation would only be an easily controlled high-level puppet that could cultivate. This was completely different from the rumored ability to split oneself into two, and was inferior to the divine abilities possessed by some cultivator clans.

However, Han Li had the Five Element Blood Cores and had a great opportunity to create a clone with a Fiend Core. This was an extremely rare stroke of luck where he could obtain a puppet guard with the strength of a Core Formation cultivator! Although the puppet would only be considered to be at early Core Formation, he would still have the power to defend himself against any Foundation Establishment cultivator.

The most difficult and crucial aspect of cultivating a clone was that it required a corpse with spiritual roots. But Han Li was already in possession of a suitable corpse: Crooked Soul, a soulless refined corpse he had acquired long ago.

It stands to reason that extracting a cultivators soul, especially that of a low grade cultivator, would cause the bodys meridians to rupture due to the overbearing nature of the magic technique used, disallowing any further cultivation. This was why so many cultivators viewed Crooked Soul with surprise when they saw that a corpse possessed Spiritual Qi fluctuations. Although cases where a soul was extracted from a cultivators body with its meridians intact did exist, they were flukes that wouldnt be encountered even once in a hundred times.

Unfortunately, this External Reincarnation Technique required the body to be intact after its soul had been extracted and that the cultivator must be of the sixth layer or lower. Such a suitable corpse would be hard to come by.

Although Han Li didnt know why there were such strange requirements, he surmised that it probably had something to do with the ease of controlling the corpse after inserting a thread of spiritual sense into it.

Han Li might not know exactly how Yu Zitong and Doctor Mo created Crooked Soul, but Crooked Soul definitely satisfied all the requirements, making it an exceptionally good candidate for refining a clone.

As for the Emperor of Yue, it probably took an unknown amount of dead low-grade cultivators before he happened upon a suitable corpse.

Han Li sat cross-legged on the ground and pondered for a long time before deciding to cultivate the Great Development Technique to the second layer prior to refining the corpse. With that accomplished, he wouldnt suffer much damage even if the clone perished. He had a deep understanding of the wondrous effects that the Great Development Technique would have on strengthening his Spiritual Sense.

Before he could cultivate the Great Development Technique, he would first have to recover his Foundation Establishment cultivation. In order to cultivate the External Reincarnation Technique, he would even have to cultivate to late Foundation Establishment.

After attempting to refine a clone, regardless of success or failure, Han Li would still have to fumble about with cultivating the Three Essence Revolutions. After all, this cultivation art along with the Azure Essence Sword Art would be a crucial step along the great path towards Core Formation Stage.

Having mentally planned out his future cultivation, Han Li entered a secret room in his Immortals cave and began to refine Qi with the aid of medicinal pills.

He only took the Yellow Dragon Pill and the Gold Marrow Pill for now, two low-grade medicine pills. Taking Foundation Establishment Pills at his current stage would be far too violent for his body. It would be more appropriate to wait until after he had reached the seventh layer of Qi Condensation before taking them.

Without a bottleneck to Foundation Establishment, Han Li reckoned that he should be able to recover his cultivation relatively quickly.

Chapter 372: Minor Expanse Island

Han Li slowly unfolded the booklet before discovering that it was a complete map of Stalwart Star Island. Gold and white light intertwined on the map and flickered with a mysterious radiance.

The areas that were sparkling were concentrated at the center of the island, the Azurecloud mountain range.

Han Li discovered that the Azurecloud Mountains were even more expansive than he had imagined. They occupied an entire fourth of the islands area.

As Han Li carefully examined the sparkling areas of white light, he couldnt help but squint his eyes.

There were half as many of the gold lights as white lights. However, the white lights were of varying brightness, some were blinding, while others were dull.

The mountain peaks that were marked with blinding light werent even considered by Han Li as the middle-aged man had already explained, Qi Condensation cultivators dont have the qualifications to choose the mountain peaks. As for the other areas, they dont have those restrictions, so long as they are an area marked by white light.

This was exactly the same as Wen Qiang had told him, but there were only valleys and caves left to choose from, and these all possessed dim white lights.

After looking at the map for a moment, he raised his head and asked the middle-aged man with a serious tone, Junior wishes to ask a question. Are there any restrictions on how large an area I can use to establish my Immortals cave?

The middle-aged man was somewhat surprised but soon replied with a mocking tone, You may set up any formation spells and restrictions you choose within a radius of five kilometers, so long as you have the room for it that is.

Han Li calmly said, Then can Junior pick this place? Since this place is also marked by a white light, shouldnt there be a spirit vein there? He lightly tapped a certain spot on the map, causing a white light to flash to yellow. Han Li then handed the picture book back to the middle-aged man.

There!? The middle-aged mans pale face revealed surprise upon seeing where Han Li had pointed.

The place was an area outside of Stalwart Star Island. It had previously been flashing with a weak white light.

That is Minor Expanse Island. The island is only about thirty-five kilometers long, but it does have a small spirit vein that is a few kilometers long. We laid down a small defensive formation spell and established a small village on the island, a few hundred people currently live there. The middle-aged man spoke with a mysterious smile that revealed hints of mockery.

Han Li remained silent. He knew that since the middle-aged man wore such an expression, this island was certain to have its complications.

This small island is of little interest to Stalwart Star Island. We only held onto it because it would be a shame to abandon the spirit vein. Its Spiritual Qi density is greatly inferior to that of other islands, and its area is small. Its true that other cultivators wont bother you if you choose that area, but its Spiritual Qi density is only two-thirds of that found in the Azurecloud Mountains. As such, your cultivation speed would be quite a bit slower than the cultivators staying on this island.

There were previously other cultivators like yourself that loved to bitterly cultivate in isolation. However, those cultivators would inevitably return after only a few years. They would rather spend a large amount of spirit stones to choose a new cultivation area than to continue staying on that island. After all, Spiritual Qi density is the most important factor to cultivators. Furthermore, those who select this island must also undertake the responsibility of protecting it. You would be the one to pay for the spirit stone expenditure of the islands defensive formation spells.

Naturally, you would receive a certain amount of spirit stones as compensation from the residents of the island, and you wont have to pay tribute to the Islands master. But I must warn you that the spirit stones you receive in compensation wont be enough to sustain the daily usage of the defensive formation. The islands spirit stone consumption has been sustained up until now by Stalwart Star Island. The middle-aged cultivator lazily pointed out the rule while tapping the bedside.

After muttering to himself for a moment, Han Li eventually asked in a soft voice, If I choose that small island, doesnt that mean I would in fact become the islands master?

Hehe, you could think of it that way. The middle-aged man replied with some surprise. He had already laid out the islands shortcomings. If this youth still wanted to choose that island, it was none of his business.

The middle-aged man thoughtfully sized up Han Li once more and inwardly sneered. He would spend a huge amount of spirit stones before long, and come to complain without end!

He was convinced that within two years at most, this young cultivator would come back with gray hair and a haggard complexion to choose a new cultivation area. Why else would such a position, being the master of a small island, remain uncontested until now?

After some more thought, Han Li spoke without further hesitation, Alright, this Junior will pick the Minor Expanse Island!

Having heard that Han Li was certain, the middle-aged cultivator didnt hesitate. He took out a golden brush and lightly dabbed the island on the map. The islands white light immediately turned golden.

He then searched his robes for a jade slip which he then wrote a few characters on with his golden brush before tossing it to Han Li.

Han Li lowered his head to look at the jade slip and saw that there were two golden characters on it. They seemed familiar, as if it were his name written in the local characters.

This jade slip is evidence that Minor Expanse Island is your cultivation area and contains the names of the islands inhabitants. Make sure to hold onto it properly! The middle-aged man indifferently said.

Afterwards, he put away the booklet and laid back down on the stone bed. He then waved his arm at Han Li, obviously shooing him away.

Han Li gave him a quick salute before tactfully leaving.

Exiting the Immortal Records Pavilion, Han Li had no inclination to sightsee around the Azurecloud Mountains or meet other cultivators. Instead, he directly flew back to the Gu Clan Estate.

On the morning of the next day, Han Li left a letter for Master Gu on the desk in his room. Then he brought Crooked Soul with him to the closest village and bought a map of Stalwart Star Island and its nearby territories before heading straight towards the harbor.

Wang Changqing had told Han Li previously that the islands largest city Stalwart Star City was located in the western part of Stalwart Star Island. That city had a market by the name of Sky Capital Market where cultivators traded items.

Although Han Li wished to go there and see what the cultivators overseas possessed and learn their cultivation arts, his current cultivation was pathetically weak. As such, he was fearful to go to an area with many cultivators, and reluctantly dropped the idea.

As Han Li flew to the harbor, he muttered to himself with ridicule, With my strength lacking, my courage suffers as well.

He didnt choose a cultivation area at the Azurecloud Mountains, favoring the vacant Minor Expanse Island where the Spiritual Qi was thinner. This decision was so that he wouldnt have to go through great pains to conceal the secret of his small bottle. Only at an isolated island far away from other cultivators would he be able to to freely cultivate the spiritual medicines required to massively increase his cultivation without attracting any unwanted attention.

Although his cultivation speed would somewhat suffer as a result, the Spiritual Qi would still be enough to cultivate spiritual herbs. After all, he mainly relied on consuming refined spiritual medicines for his cultivation. Having thinner Spiritual Qi wouldnt influence him too greatly.

Han Li flew out of Stalwart Star Islands huge island-wide restriction from the port. Following the map, he headed straight towards Minor Expanse Island.

On the map, the island was located right beside Stalwart Star Island. But only after flying for an entire day on his Divine Wind Boat was he able to spot it.

After flying once around the island, Han Li found the entrance to the islands formation spell, a small dock. Han Li then slowly descended towards it.

There were very few people on the dock, with only about a dozen fishermen sitting on small boats beside the port. Once they saw Han Li and Crooked Soul descend from the sky, they got off their boats and gathered together to see Han Li.

The crowd walked towards Han Li and saluted him one by one. A particularly burly man with a dark face separated himself from the crowd and paid his respects to Han Li. It seemed this person was the head fisherman, This humble one is Hei Gui. He pays his respects to Immortal Master!

Is this Minor Expanse Island? Although Han Li felt that he wasnt mistaken, it was best to be prudent.

Hei Gui asked with a puzzled expression, Yes it is, Great Immortal! Has Immortal Master come to replace the spirit stones already? It hasnt been that long since they were last changed!

Having heard that this really was Minor Expanse Island, Han Li let out a breath of relief. With a faint smile, he spoke to those present, I didnt come to replace the spirit stones. From now on, I will be the one providing the spirit stones for the island as this small island has become my cultivation area. You may all call me Immortal Han!

Under the astonished gazes of the fishermen, Han Li called out to Crooked Soul, and they flew towards the center of the island.

Chapter 371: Immortal Records Pavilion

Fellow Daoist Han, the ten cultivators to be challenged were hired at great expense by the great clans from the islands protector squad. Although their cultivation isnt high, their experience and techniques are superior to that of common cultivators as they have fought demonic beasts at sea and sparred with the cultivators from other islands. Not to mention opponents at the same layer, it wouldnt be odd for them to defeat common cultivators with a cultivation of three layers above them. Wen Qiang clicked his tongue with an expression of praise.

Han Li smiled and spoke modestly, It was nothing. I was merely lucky. Han Li had quite a bit of experience with regards to battle.

The youth looked in the direction of the azure mountain before turning his head around and asking with a smile, Ah, yes. Fellow Daoist Han came here to handle some formalities at the Immortal Records Pavilion?

As this wasnt a matter worth concealing, Han Li calmly answered, Fellow Daoist Wen guessed correctly. I wish to handle the formalities for settling down on this island and choose a cultivators residence.

Having heard Han Lis destination, Wen Qiang immediately offered a suggestion, Hehe! Ive been to the Immortal Ascension Pavilion several times already. How about I bring Fellow Daoist Han there along the way? It would be hard to look for it alone, considering the size of the Azurecloud Mountains.

Han Li was slightly surprised to see him act so enthusiastically, but he still expressed his thanks and agreed.

As such, the two flew side by side towards the large mountain.

While the youth was leading the way, he gave Han Li a garrulous explanation of the mountain range, On our islands Azurecloud Mountains, in addition to the three great peaks: the Heavenly Pillar, the Heavenly Night, and the Heavenly Gate, there are also three hundred sixty seven smaller mountain peaks. The amount of caves among these mountains are countless, and it is said that many of them are capable of being a cultivation area.

Naturally, although the majority of the Azurecloud Mountains have large spirit veins, the density of Spiritual Qi varies. It is generally said that the taller the mountains peak, the denser the Spiritual Qi. As for the thirty-six mountain peaks with the densest Spiritual Qi, they are the prizes of the islands decennial Great Spirit Land Contest. Those who feel that their cultivation is greater than the lords of these thirty-six mountain peaks may challenge them at will. The victor shall become the master of the peak. The differences between the peaks arent very significant. It is said that as long as a cultivator managed to enter Foundation Establishment, they would be able to acquire one of these mountain peaks as a cultivation area. As for Qi Condensation cultivators, they can only obediently find a valley or cave to use as a cultivation area.

Foundation Establishment cultivators are able to claim an entire mountain peak for themselves? Han Li was greatly surprised.

The youth said with a self-mocking tone, Thats right. However, the Foundation Establishment cultivators of the island have already occupied most of them. Us Qi Condensation cultivators shouldnt think of such hopeful matters.

Oh! Thoughts churned through Han Lis mind, causing him to grow somewhat excited.

Han Li suddenly thought of something and casually asked, Ah, then the three tallest mountains should have the greatest Spiritual Qi, yes?

Of course. The tallest peak, the Heavenly Pillar, is the cultivation area of our islands master, Master Mu Long. It is forbidden from entry. It is said that our islands lord is at mid Core Formation stage, and his divine abilities are devastating. As for the Heavenly Gate and the Heavenly Night mountain peaks, they are respectively occupied by Master Yuan Jun and Master Kan Qin. Although the Spiritual Qi is somewhat lacking in comparison to the Heavenly Pillar, it is still several times denser than in other areas. Wen Qiang stated with a somewhat envious expression.

Han Li slowly asked with raised eyebrows, Fellow Daoist Wen, are those two Core Formation Seniors as well?

Wen Qiang nodded with a pleased expression, Not only are they early Core Formation cultivators, they are also Dao companions.

Han Li unconsciously frowned. Stalwart Star Island unexpectedly had three Core Formation cultivators. This was truly beyond his expectations.

While Han Li was lost in thought, he arrived at the center of the Azurecloud mountains with Wen Qiang.

They occasionally ran into other cultivators on the way there, but after giving the two of them an indifferent glance, they all flew away, minding their own business.

A few minutes later, Han Li and Wen Qiang finally arrived at a relatively tall mountain peak.

The peak had a small, two-story pavilion of unknown age. Not only was its exterior thoroughly worn out and of an outdated design, it also hung a sign on its gate that was missing a corner. The words Immortal Records Pavilion were crookedly written on the sign.

Han Li blankly stared. Although he saw the sign, Han Li could not bring himself to believe it. He couldnt help but turn towards Wen Qiang and ask, This is…

Although I dont want to admit it, this really is the Immortal Records Pavilion. The youth spread out his arms with an appearance of helplessness.

The youth waved his hand and gave Han Li a warning just before he took his leave, Alright, Im going to leave now. However, Fellow Daoist Han should take note that the senior in charge of the Immortal Records Pavilion has a strange temperament!

Han Li indifferently gazed at the youth as he disappeared. After mindlessly shaking his head, he landed in front of the pavilion and walked in with a calm face.

Just as he approached the gate, he heard a somewhat gloomy voice, Come in! The gate isnt locked. Han Li was shocked by the sudden announcement, but he couldnt help but walk toward the pavilion hesitantly.

After entering the pavilion, Han Li was left stupefied.

The interior sharply contrasted with the outer appearance of the pavilion. It was magnificently decorated. The floor was covered in sparkling fire-red silk, and the walls were made of gold and jade while countless amounts of sparkling gems glittered on the ceiling. Corners of the building were decorated with many species of gorgeous plants that Han Li had never seen before.

There was also an odd stone bed across from him, sparkling with a strange blue light. Although he didnt recognize what it was made out of, they were certain to be some sort of precious materials.

A haggard, middle-aged man was currently reclining on it. His clothes were made of dazzling, fire-red demon fur. He was embracing a huge, white pearl as he indifferently glanced at Han Li.

Han Li suppressed his amazement and bowed. He then asked with a respectful tone, Hello Senior. This one wishes to handle the formalities for taking up residence. May I ask if Senior is in charge of this matter?

The middle-aged man lightly sighed before spiritedly asking, Taking up residence? Do you have a guarantor?

I do! Han Li immediately took out the document that the Gu Clan member had given him and stepped forward to give it to the man. Han Li didnt dare to belittle him as his spiritual power fluctuations clearly revealed his status as a powerful late Foundation Establishment cultivator.

The middle-aged man took the signed document from Han Li and swept through it. His eyes then flashed with bright light, sizing Han Li up.

Caressing the pearl in his embrace, the middle-aged man indifferently asked, I have heard that there was a new cultivator on the island that was able to defeat a member of the protector squad while at the fifth layer of Qi Condensation. Could that have been you?

Han Li was somewhat surprised, but he hastily replied with a modest tone, Junior only won through a fluke! It wasnt really like that!

Humph! A fluke… The middle-aged man snorted with a cold smile.

Han Li inwardly frowned and felt puzzled, The battle only took place several days ago. How does this person know about it?

The middle-aged man tightened the demon furs on his body as if he saw the confusion in Han Lis mind and calmly said, That person you defeated from the protector squad is my unbecoming disciple! Having lost to someone with a lower cultivation than himself, Ive sentenced him to secluded study as punishment.

Han Li bitterly smiled after being stunned for moment as this was far too coincidental! Han Li became somewhat worried. Could it be that he intended to teach Han Li a lesson on behalf of his disciple? freewenvel.com

The middle-aged man squinted at Han Li and spoke with an icy tone, Dont worry. This is a matter between you juniors, and I wont take advantage of you as your senior. I hope that you will fight my unbecoming disciple one more time. After that, I wont pursue the matter any further, regardless of the outcome.

Han Li felt his heart relax. Since it is Seniors request, Junior naturally will not refuse!

The middle-aged man was surprised to see Han Li so willingly consent, but soon after, he revealed a satisfied expression.

The middle-aged mans hand flashed with white light and the pearl disappeared. He then stood up and slowly said, Next, I will be handling the matters of your residency.

The formalities for residency were actually quite simple. The middle-aged man merely took out a golden book and wrote Han Lis name in it. Han Li also exchanged the green jade medallion he had received from the harbor for a blue jade pendant.

The jade pendant twinkled with blue light and was a low grade magic tool. According to the middle-aged man, the pendant possessed minor waterproofing effects. The effect was quite practical.

Next, the middle-aged man tossed a silver booklet towards Han Li.

All of the places shining with golden light have already been taken. The white ones are unoccupied. Choose one to be your cultivation area! Cough, cough… After quickly speaking just a few words, he started to cough without end. The middle-aged man seemed to be afflicted with a truly serious illness.

Chapter 370: Challenge

Whats so funny? I only wished to not injure you out of kindness! When this cultivator saw that Han Li didnt seem to care, he couldnt help but become angry and increasingly flaunt his status as a superior.

Han Li tapped the floor with the tip of his foot, indifferently saying, Its nothing! I only feel that this competition is going to be easier than I had imagined.

What? You dare to look down on me?! The middle aged cultivators face completely reddened. He raised his hand and revealed many glistening items. But before he could act, he suddenly saw the person in front of him blur. His vision then blackened, and he fell to the floor not knowing what had happened.

……

A short moment later, Han Li carried the unconscious middle-aged man off the stage with an indifferent expression.

When the other cultivators saw this, they were stunned.

There was a clear difference in their cultivation, but the victor was Han Li. This was far beyond their expectations.

Even the old man, who had appeared moody from the very beginning, revealed an odd expression.

He took a deep look at Han Li. Although he didnt say anything, he seemed to know how Han Li had taken action.

Han Li chuckled and calmly handed the two bamboo sticks to the old man. He then dropped his unconscious opponent to the floor and went over to the group of victorious cultivators.

The old man saw that the middle-aged cultivator was still unconscious and lightly shook his head, revealing a mysterious smile.

Number eight!

……

When the final victor was decided, the old man looked at the ten cultivators that hadnt gone on the platform and lightly coughed. He then spoke with an indifferent tone, We will now start the challenges in order of number. If you feel that your magic power is severely exhausted, you may take a moment to rest before facing your next challenge. However, these challenges must finish by today, it will count as a forfeit otherwise. Also, challengers are forbidden from challenging those who have already fought. As for the extra eleventh challenger, they will be allowed to challenge any one of the winning incumbents after the ten winners have been decided.

Now, lets start!

The first challenger selected the incumbent with the lowest cultivation and entered the stage with him.

As his opponents cultivation was only of the sixth layer and his cultivation was of the seventh, it appeared that he had high odds of winning. freewebnvel.cm

But after the time it took to make a cup of tea, the sixth layer cultivator left the stage first. As for the first challenger, he reappeared in a miserable state.

He was ashamed and quickly left the hall without a word.

The remaining challengers revealed changed expressions. As for the victor, he returned to the other ten without the slightest of care.

Next! The old man shouted. He didnt reveal the slightest surprise as if he had expected that cultivator to win!

Senior, my magic power is deficient. I wish to rest for a moment! The second chosen cultivator spoke with a slight blush.

Number three! The old man didnt care whether his magic power truly hadnt recovered and shouted the next number.

The following cultivator lightly creased his brow and also avoided the next fight.

As for the fourth challenger, he appeared to be unwilling to lose face and summoned the courage to choose an opponent, entering the stage.

In the end, the same result occurred. The fourth challenger was heavily injured, causing the remaining challengers to all be shaken.

Having seen this, the following two challengers took the opportunity to delay their fights. They thought that they would be able to make a better choice after seeing how it ended up for the others.

The old mans face stirred for a moment, before slowly calling out Han Lis number, Number Seven!

Han Li silently walked forward and pointed to an opponent with a sixth layer cultivation.

The opponent was a burly man. Having seen Han Li fearlessly select him, he suddenly revealed a malicious smile and walked toward the stage in large strides.

In contrast, Han Li walked forward with slow steps as if he was deliberating about the coming match.

Soon, Han Li and the burly man disappeared into the white light. Everyone looked in the direction of the stage with interest.

The old man then closed his eyes as if he had extended his spiritual sense.

But after a short moment, his cheeks slightly moved. He then opened his eyes and revealed a trace of astonishment.

With a flash of white light, a person appeared on the platform.

The many cultivators hurriedly turned their gaze. The light faded away to reveal Han Li. He didnt have the slightest injury, but he was dragging his opponent who had his entire body scorched. He leisurely walked off the platform as if he hadnt spent the slightest effort.

Not only were the challengers stupefied, even the incumbent opponents also had looks of disbelief on their faces.

As for Wen Qiang who stood behind the old man, his mouth was gaping. He didnt close it until some time later.

Han Li dragged his still-breathing opponent towards the old man and left him there, before returning to his original position with a leisurely stride.

When the other challengers saw this, they couldnt help but turn their gaze and reveal a trace of reverence.

Han Li coldly smiled in his heart.

It seemed that regardless of where he went, strength was the most effective method of speech.

Perhaps it was because Han Lis unexpected triumph inspired confidence in the remaining challengers, the following challengers didnt avoid their fight and immediately chose an opponent.

However, this only resulted in defeat and heavy injuries.

The challengers who had delayed their fights were appalled. With their competitive spirits completely extinguished, each one of them had eventually decided to forfeit.

After all, they knew that they were no match. Only an idiot would decide to fight regardless!

As such, the old man declared that only Han Li, on behalf of the Gu Clan, had acquired the qualifications for main island trade.

Afterwards, the old man handed a blue jade slip to Han Li and told him it would be settled once he gave that to the Gu Clan.

The old man then unceremoniously dismissed the cultivators, chasing them out of the hall with his voice.

……

Han Li handed the blue jade slip to Master Gu in the corridor.

His expressions were quite marvelous. He appeared incredulous, astonished, and finally ecstatic with joy.

Immortal Han, I am grateful beyond words. Please feel at ease, the Gu Clan will definitely fulfill their promise with you.

By the time he said these words, Han Li, Master Gu, and Wang Changqing were already sitting in the carriage and were on their way back to the Gu Clan Estate.

As he was speaking these grateful words, his hands were tightly grasping the jade slip as if he was afraid that it would fly away. It made for quite a funny scene.

Leaning against the back of the carriage, Han Li said with a slight smile, I believe Mister Gu isnt someone who would abandon their benefactor upon achieving their goals, especially when the benefactor in question is a cultivator.

With the warning laced in Han Lis words, Master Gu and Wang Changqing paled and repeatedly said that they didnt dare.

Not long after that, Han Li returned to his wooden house on the hill. Crooked Soul was still obediently on guard.

Han Li only managed to refine Qi for three days before Wang Changqing went to find him.

He had come to inform Han Li that Han Li could now go the Immortal Mountains Immortal Records Pavilion and acquire permanent residence at Stalwart Star Island. They would also provide him with a cultivation area.

After all, the cultivators of the island all had their own Immortals cave.

Since he hadnt participated in the Great Spirit Land Contest, his area was certain to have thinner Spiritual Qi, but it would still have enough to be considered an area of cultivation.

Han Li pocketed the guarantors document that the Gu Clan had given him and flew towards the center of Stalwart Star Island. Crooked Soul was naturally left behind to guard his small house.

On his way, Han Li flew past seven cities and several tens of small towns before finally catching view of the Immortal Mountain that Wang Changqing had mentioned.

It was a huge, azure, tri-peaked mountain that penetrated through the clouds. The sight was truly majestic and beyond lofty.

Innumerable smaller peaks surrounded the huge mountain.

Han Li was unable to tell how expansive the mountain was from a glance.

He blankly stared at this Immortal Mountain while lost in thought.

Hm? Arent you Fellow Daoist Han? Han Li suddenly heard someone call out to him from behind.

Han Li was slightly alarmed and hastily turned around. The voice sounded familiar.

Not far behind him, the gentle and frail Wen Qiang was looking at him with a smile, flying on his wheel magic tool.

After staring blankly for a moment, Han Li responded with a chuckle, So it was Fellow Daoist Wen! What a coincidence!

Hehe! I didnt expect to see you! Fellow Daoist Han was actually able to defeat a cultivator from the protector squad. I really admire you!

Protector squad? Han Li was startled to hear this!

Chapter 369: Challenge

Han Li sized up the soldiers. Although they didnt possess spiritual power fluctuations, they were full of vigour. It seemed they had trained in some shallow martial arts, but what caught his eye the most was the cylinder. There was actually such a wondrous item that could differentiate cultivators from mortals.

Han Li couldnt help but take another look at the cylinder.

Wang Changqing saw this and gave Han Li an explanation with a smile, That is a spirit plate. It allows us mortals to identify who is an Immortal!

Spirit plate? Han Li was somewhat surprised to hear this, but he immediately thought of the palm sized jade plate embedded in the cylinder and faintly nodded, not saying anything further.

Han Li then detachedly watched as the carriage traveled on the white stone street towards the center of the city.

There were countless pedestrians on the street, coming and going without stop or rest. The deeper they went into the city, the livelier it became.

A majority of the people wore white. Those that didnt wear white, wore a dull yellow, faint green and other such mild colors. There was no one wearing any bright colors.

In addition, those that didnt wear white were clearly of high status. These well dressed individuals would often have three or four shabbily dressed subordinates closely following after them.

Because there were far too many people and carriages on the street, their carriage was forced to slow down. After spending a long time traveling with such slow speed, their carriage finally arrived at a huge plaza in the citys center.

The plaza took up about five acres and was filled with a huge crowd. All Han Li could see was a vast sea of black-haired heads, hurriedly flowing in every direction without end.

Shops lined the plaza, each one fully packed with customers. At the very center, the shops seemed to be made up of temporary booths. They were abnormally overcrowded and were accompanied with fervent chatter. It appeared to be bustling with unusual amounts of activity.

Han Li estimated that with the density of the crowd, there were at least several tens of thousands of people in the plaza.

It was naturally impossible to further advance in the carriage through such a large crowd. Master Gu took the lead and descended from the carriage, bringing Han Li and company towards the palace-styled building at the side of the plaza.

The palace was over thirty meters tall, far taller than the other buildings around it. The huge gate of the palace was guarded by a line of soldiers with sparkling long spears in their grasp, preventing anybody from casually approaching.

This is the Stalwart Star Islands first market day of the third month. That is why there are several times more people here at East Stone City. Basically, the residences from many cities and towns on the eastern part of the island all come here to trade for rarities that would normally be hard to obtain. As Master Gu was leading the way toward the palace, he turned his head and gave Han Li an explanation with a faint smile.

Master Gu stepped forward and spoke with the gate guards. A guard then waved his hand, signifying that they could pass.

Master Gu hastily called out to Han Li and Wang Changqing before heading in.

Once they passed through the gate, it became much more shaded and quiet. In the corridor past the gate, there were several tens of individuals of seemingly high status having whispered conversations in groups of three. When they saw Master Gu arrive, they seemed to look at him with hostility.

But at this moment, the purple gate at the other end of the corridor opened, revealing a white clothed youth of about twenty years old. His appearance was delicate and refined, much like that of a frail scholar.

The youth gave Han Li a friendly glance before speaking courteously to Master Gu,Are you Mister Gu? The others have already arrived. Cultivators that are participating in the challenge must go further in. As for you, Mister Gu, please wait outside.

From a single glance, Han Li was undoubtedly sure that the youths cultivation was about the same as his current cultivation, the fifth layer of Qi Condensation.

Master Gu could only give Han Li an expectant look before stepping off to the side.

Han Li followed the youth through the gate. Afterwards, the gate immediately shut.

My surname is Wen but Fellow Daoist can call me Wen Qiang. You seem quite unfamiliar. Could it be that youre new to our Stalwart Star Island?

I am Han Li. Ive just arrived here last month! Having a month of practice, Han Li was able to speak the local language without problem.

Hehe, how admirable! Daring to journey from your homeland with your current cultivation, Daoist Friends courage and insight must be outstanding! I wouldnt have been able to do it. Ive never taken a single step off this island since birth. The youth spoke with admiration.

Han Li faintly smiled but didnt say anything in response.

Han Li followed the youth, eventually arriving at a round hall. There were over thirty cultivators there, sitting and standing, each wearing various expressions.

A shriveled old man sitting across from the crowd of cultivators spoke quickly, It seems that everyone has gathered. Lets start drawing lots! Each fight will be decided in one round. Killing is forbidden and will result in disqualification.

He was the only Foundation Establishment cultivator among a room of Qi Condensation cultivators. It seemed he was the cultivator in charge.

Once the youth surnamed Wen entered the hall, he hurriedly went to stand beside the old man and await his orders.

The old man didnt pay the youth any attention. Instead, he took out an azure jade cylinder with over twenty bamboo sticks.

To participate in the challenge, draw a lot. Once the number of challengers matches the number of the representatives of the incumbent merchants, the remaining challengers will be qualified to challenge them.

The majority of the crowd stared at the jade cylinder as it was enveloped in a layer of azure light, concealing the sticks within. Naturally, the light repelled spiritual sense, and upon doing so, the owners of the spiritual sense seemed to have suffered and couldnt help but sway.

Those that didnt use their spiritual sense to probe the cylinder revealed schadenfreude. These cultivators naturally wished for Han Li and the other challengers to suffer a disadvantage.

As for Han Li, who possessed powerful spiritual sense, he would have no problem forcefully breaking through the azure light. However, this would be far to eye-catching. As such, Han Li could only helplessly look at the others in dismay and take his turn drawing lots.

When Han Li went up to draw his lot, he was unexpectedly able to see through the azure light, but all he saw was strange silver characters. He wrinkled his brow in response. He had completely forgotten that he still couldnt read the local writing!

But still, Han Li expressionlessly drew a lot as if nothing had happened.

Number one! The old man coldly shouted. The two cultivators that drew that lot immediately walked forward.

The old man bluntly said, You two will compete on the stage over there. There is a formation setup, so there is no need to fear destruction from magic techniques. It will be your victory if you are able to take away their lot. So long as you dont kill your opponent, I dont care what methods or tricks you use.

Yes, Senior! The two participants bowed to the old man before walking towards the elevated platform at the back of the hall. The platform then flashed with white light and the two disappeared without a trace.

Shortly after, the two reappeared on the platform, revealing slight fatigue. One of them animatedly gave the old man two bamboo sticks. The other dejectedly walked out from the hall.

Number two! The old man coldly shouted.

Because the battles of Qi Condensation cultivators were simple, victory was decided extremely quickly. Battles ended almost as soon as they began. But Han Li was baffled to see that regardless of whether they won or lost, they were exceptionally happy.

Number seven! A cultivator walked out as soon as the old man yelled, but his opponent hadnt revealed himself.

Number seven! The old man yelled again with a gloomy expression.

Han Li suddenly walked out and hastily apologized, Senior! I apologize! I had misread my number. I thought it said nine!

The old man didnt pay any mind to what Han Li said and impatiently waved his hand. Han Li then tactfully went up to the platform with his opponent.

After a flash of white light, Han Li and his opponent appeared in a world of white mist. The area spanned about a hundred meters and was covered by the white mist in every direction.

The middle-aged cultivator spoke to Han Li with confidence, Your cultivation is lower than mine by two whole layers. There is no need to fight. Fellow Daoist should forfeit. Else, I might accidentally give you a heavy injury!

Seeing that this expert was only a seventh layer Qi Condensation cultivator and hadnt released a protective barrier like he had, Han Li faintly smiled.

Chapter 368: Farmstead

But as Han Li was counting the number of mortals, he also felt the faint aura of several cultivators. It seemed these cultivators were in charge of maintaining order at the port.

As Han Li was thinking this, he and Crooked Soul were brought to a stone room inside the harbor.

The room was very simply decorated with only a wooden desk and a chair with a wrinkly old man sitting in it with his eyes shut.

Upon hearing Han Li and company enter, this Immortal opened his eyes.

A cold light suddenly shot out as his eyes opened. Han Lis heart shuddered upon seeing it. This person was unexpectedly a Foundation Establishment cultivator. In addition, his magic power was no less than Han Li when he had been at his peak.

This wrinkly, yellow-faced old man ignored Master Gu and Wang Changqing and directly swept his gaze toward Han Li and Crooked Soul. After seeing that Han Li was only a Qi Condensation cultivator, his expression became lazy once more. But after he took note of Han Li, he seemed to have glanced at Crooked Soul several more times.

If you have business, be quick about it. Otherwise, dont interrupt my rest. He spoke dispiritedly and displayed some impatience.

By relying on his highly retentive memory, Han Li had acquired a rough understanding of the local language from Wang Changqing. Although he couldnt speak it, he could understand the meaning of others with some difficulty.

But since he didnt have any experience interacting with the cultivators of this land, he didnt say a word and only smiled as Master Gu and Wang Changqing spoke with the cultivator.

Master Gu respectfully addressed him as Immortal Yang. Then he moved closer to him and whispered something before turning around and pointing at Han Li. It seemed he was explaining his origins. Afterwards, he placed a few spirit stones in his hand.

Grasping the spirit stones in his hand, Immortal Yangs expression greatly eased up. He then took out a green jade medallion and stiffly asked Han Li, Your name?

Han Li! Han Li was able to say his own name fluently. As for how the other party would write them, he didnt care in the least.

Immortal Yangs hand flashed with green light, enveloping the entire jade medallion. After a short moment, the radiance faded away, revealing two strange symbols that Han Li hadnt seen before.

The yellow-faced old man then tossed the jade medallion towards Han Li.

Properly put away the medallion. If you lose it, you must immediately come back here and receive a replacement. Otherwise, you will face punishment as a trespasser on Stalwart Star Island. Naturally, if you settle down here later, you will no longer require the jade medallion and can return it. As for that refined corpse behind you, it obviously doesnt need one. After saying this with a raspy voice, he no longer paid them any attention and closed his eyes once more.

Master Gu tactfully left at once.

However, Han Li seemed interested in how he saw though Crooked Souls true identity with a single glance. After taking a good look at him, Han Li silently left the room.

Shortly after Han Li left, that Immortal Yang opened his eyes once more. He muttered to himself with slight bewilderment, That refined corpse is truly odd. It is clearly a dead body, but it still releases Spiritual Qi! Could it be some sort of new corpse refinement technique? The old man then sunk into a long period of contemplation.

After leaving the port, Master Gu hired a carriage being pulled by strange ox-like goats, quickly bringing them deeper into the island by traveling along a large road. frewebnol.com

Along the way, there were countless similar vehicles going about their own business.

But once the carriage passed through several small, bustling towns, they saw far fewer carriages. As they traveled along a few small roads, pedestrians and carriages became exceedingly sparse.

After hurriedly travelling for half a day, the carriage finally arrived at a farmstead that occupied over two acres. The farmstead grew many odd crops that Han Li hadnt seen before.

There were crops that resembled grains and rice. However, their leaves were thick, flat and of a violet-red color. There were also crops that resembled cabbage. They released a faint scent, and although it possessed an extremely similar appearance to cabbage, there were no such cabbages that were as tall as half a man in the Heavenly South Region. There was even Choy Sum that bloomed small blue flowers…

More than ten farmers could be seen at each vegetable field. They were toiling at the fields in groups of two and three.

This provided quite a serene view of the farmstead!

As Han Li gazed at the farm with interest, the carriage had arrived at the large entrance of the farmsteads manor and stopped. Han Li brought Crooked Soul out with him and took a look around.

The manor was surrounded by green pine trees and neighbored a rather large hill. It appeared somewhat unusual, but could be considered to be quite tasteful with a serene environment. In addition, the manor was surrounded by earth walls six meters tall and one meter thick. Many houses lied within the walls, appearing to have been built recently.

So this is the Gu Clan! Han Li silently uttered a word of praise. But as he carefully examined the pines, his expression inadvertently changed because of an astonishing discovery. The trees that surrounded the manor faintly revealed the aura of a formation spell. It was obvious that a restriction had been placed here.

Although Han Li didnt view the formation spell to be exceptional by any means, it was still enough to trap a low level cultivator.

While Han Li was feeling somewhat suspicious, Master Gu got off the carriage and spoke with an apologetic smile, Immortal Han, please take a rest at the manor! Ill call for some subordinates to prepare some of the islands specialty wine for the Immortal Master!

Han Li took a random glance at the surroundings of the manor and replied with a smile, Let it be. I dont wish to disturb Master Gus home. Itll be fine if I reside there for the time being. After our affairs have been handled, I will search for a more permanent residence. Han Li then pointed in a direction off to the side.

Master Gu and Wang Changqing followed the direction Han Li was pointing to and saw that it was a small solitary hill. They couldnt help but be dumbstruck.

But after seeing that their many enthusiastic invitations had failed, they could only allow this strange immortal to head towards the small hill. They gave each other a mutual glance of helplessness before walking into the manor.

Han Li brought Crooked Soul with him on the small, sloped path towards the hilltop. He then took a glance down at the Gu Clan Manor from above.

He saw that Master Gu was heading towards the huge residence at the center of the manor while being escorted by a crowd of women and men. By the time he had arrived there, most of them have dispersed. Only a few beautifully clothed individuals followed him into the manor.

Han Li smirked slightly and turned around, busying himself with his own affairs.

He first went to find a relatively flat and even piece of land at the back of the hill. Then he quickly uprooted several of the thicker pines and cut them into pieces with magic tools. Afterwards, he had Crooked Soul…

An hour later, he had completed a simple small wooden house on the hill. The house had a wooden table, wooden chairs, and even a wooden bed.

In the following month, Han Li stayed in his house everyday, taking medicinal pills and refining Qi, striving to restore his cultivation as soon as possible.

As for Master Gu and Wang Changqing, they visited several times during this period and discussed matters pertaining to the contest. Afterwards, they hurriedly left, not daring to further disturb Han Lis cultivation.

But as Master Gu was a sensible person, he sent delicacies up to Han Lis home every few days for his enjoyment. Han Li gladly accepted them without a trace of politeness.

Many kinds of exceptionally sweet fruits were among these offerings, much to Han Lis enjoyment. They were clearly the islands local specialties since he had never seen them before.

During the last few days of the month, Han Li had managed to restore his cultivation to the fifth layer of Qi Condensation. He found this very surprising and felt his heart become more assured.

According to Master Gu, none of the cultivators that the ten clans had requested possessed a high level of cultivation. Apart from a few exceptions, a majority of them only possessed a cultivation at the sixth or seventh layer of Qi Condensation. As for the lots which would decide the fights, so long as Han Lis luck wasnt exceptionally terrible, he wouldnt have a problem in the contest.

In addition, Master Gu had scoured the nearby seas for three impressive magic tools to increase Han Lis odds of success.

Han Li barely classified these items as high grade magic tools. He could only roll his eyes inwardly and accept them so that Master Gu would feel at ease.

Two days after Han Li restored the fifth layer of his cultivation, Master Gu and Wang Changqing paid Han Li a visit with nervous expressions. Han Li wordlessly entered their carriage drawn by strange beasts, and they hurriedly traveled to some area located at the center of the island.

Four hours later, they arrived at a city that seemed to be entirely constructed out of white stone.

As they entered the city, they saw a large amount of mortals guarding the city entrance.

They wouldnt bother anyone leaving the city, but entering the city would require one to show a command medallion, similar to the one Han Li possessed.

But when Han Li was about to enter the city, the guards took out a cylindrical object and shook it at Han Li several times. After it shined with a green light, they gave Han Li a respectful salute and moved to only inspect the medallions of Master Gu and Wang Changqing.

Chapter 367: Settling Down with a Guarantor

Wang Changqing bitterly smiled in response.

Immortal Master jests! Although there are a few Immortals with storage pouches, they are incomparably precious. How could they lend them to us mortals and ferry our common items? Furthermore, every transaction between the large islands consist of great quantities. An Immortals storage pouch may be wondrous without comparison, but it can only hold so much. Even more so, Immortals wouldnt do something so beneath their dignity as freighting goods! Wang Changqing gave Han Li a careful explanation.

Han Li nodded his head without speaking and sunk into contemplation with narrowed eyes.

After a long while, Han Li indifferently said, Master Gu wishes for me to act on his behalf, but I am powerless to do so. Because my cultivation isnt high, me agreeing would only shame him. I request that Mister Wang report to Master Gu that he should find someone better qualified. As for the service of bringing me to Stalwart Star Island on his boat, I am able to offer a few spirit stones in remuneration.

Han Li spoke slowly and clearly, but his voice was cold and detached.

When the old man heard Han Lis rejection, his face paled slightly.

He then pitifully pleaded, Great Immortal, please assist my clans master! In order to pursue this business, Master Gu already paid a great price to the ships staff. Master Gu has also paid a great sum of spirit stones for the right to participate in the challenge. If he does not acquire the qualifications to trade between the great islands, the Gu Clan will surely go bankrupt. Us laborers will also lose our jobs and will have to find different opportunities.

My cultivation is truly inferior. Also, I do not wish to provoke any quarrels upon arriving at Stalwart Star Island! Han Li expressionlessly shook his head in blunt refusal.

Seeing that Han Lis refusal was certain and that his tone was strict, Wang Changqing didnt dare to continue his pleading. He could only resolve his spirit and chat about the local customs with Han Li, telling him urgently needed knowledge.

An hour later, Han Li noticed that the old mans mind was wandering. He sent him away to rest, telling him to come back when his mind was clearer.

Wang Changqing had felt tired for quite some time. Seeing that Han Li had shown him consideration, he didnt decline and followed his suggestion.

After the old man left and respectfully closed the door, Han Li couldnt help but sigh. Although he had some wealth on hand and even held some spiritual medicines that benefited mortals, he didnt have the slightest intention of giving any to the old man. He couldnt possibly reveal his wealth in this unfamiliar land! Otherwise, he might provoke unnecessary trouble, even fatal disaster wasnt an unlikely possibility.

With that in mind, Han Li sat down cross-legged on the bed. He then swallowed a Yellow Dragon Pill and began refining his Qi.

He must restore his cultivation as soon as possible. After all, strength truly speaks loudest, regardless of what land one resided in.

After meditating for only a short moment, he heard faint footsteps from outside his room.

Although Han Li didnt open the door, he had released his spiritual sense outside earlier and could see everything that occurred. The old man called Wang Changqing had returned with Master Gu closely following behind him with an appearance of great worry.

Han Li wrinkled his brow. It seemed trouble had come for him. It was obvious that this Master Gu hadnt given up yet and came to bother him.

Were this the Heavenly South Region, Han Li could stop them in their tracks with an ice-cold shout, and they wouldnt dare to enter. But he was a new arrival in an unfamiliar land. He mustnt appear too unreasonable.

Without waiting for the two to knock on the door, he said with a mild tone, Please come in! The door isnt locked.

Master Gu and Wang Changqing were shocked. But then they immediately realized that this Great Immortal had invited them in. They hastily tidied up their clothes before respectfully entering the room.

At this moment, Han Li had already gotten off the bed and was now standing with his hands behind his back.

Great Immortal, Master Gu wishes to personally discuss this matter with you. Could Great Immortal please give Master Gu an opportunity? Wang Changqing had previous contact with Han Li and knew that this Immortal wasnt someone to be deceived. Thus, he directly stated his business for coming.

Han Li first glanced at the old man. Then he smiled and said indifferently, Of course he can. But you should first advise Master Gu to not set his hopes too high!

Wang Changqing revealed slight embarrassment, but he gave an honest explanation to the middle-aged man regardless.

The middle-aged mans face blanked upon hearing this. But immediately after, the middle-aged man said something that first startled Wang Changqing before causing him to reveal a queer expression.

Han Li watched detachedly from the side and remained expressionless.

Great Immortal, our Master Gu says that so long as you lend your assistance, the Gu Clan will bestow a large sum of spirit stones to you, regardless of whether this matter results in victory or defeat. If you truly manage to win the rights for the Gu Clan to perform trade between the great islands, Master Gu is willing to even become your guarantor, allowing a foreign cultivator such as yourself to become an official resident of Stalwart Star Island. Most of all, the Gu Clan is willing to respectfully offer three-tenths of the three year trading profits to you, even if you do not wish to take up an official position at Stalwart Star Island.

Once Wang Changqing said this, his gaze became dim as if he found Master Gus offer to be incredulous.

Han Li was somewhat surprised and stroked his chin. Baffled, he asked, What? In order to live at Stalwart Star Island, one needs a guarantor? I never heard you say this!

Although Han Lis words were mild, Wang Changqing broke out in a cold sweat and hastily explained, Immortal Master misunderstands! Foreign Immortals at Stalwart Star Island can be divided into two types. One type is there for a temporary stay. They are unable to hold office and generally live there for a few years, leaving or staying depending on their own preference. The other type have guarantors from the great nearby clans and are able to stay as long as they wish. Not only do they have to pay less spirit stones to stay on the island and have the ability to follow the formalities to obtain a permanent residence, but they also have the qualifications to hold office and have the right to participate in the decennial Great Spirit Land Contest. Depending on ones performance in the contest, they are given land with a corresponding density of Spiritual Qi. This old man neglected to mention this to you because finding a guarantor for a foreign cultivator on an island as large as Stalwart Star Island is an exceedingly complicated matter. Fearing that Han Li would misunderstand, Wang Changqing explained this all in a single breath.

Han Lis expression became gloomy afterwards. Han Li doubtfully asked, What happens to those cultivators who arent able to find a residence on Stalwart Star Island? Are they unable to acquire a place to cultivate?

The old man replied, Of course not. Those Immortals from subsidiary islands are able to participate in the competitions. However, they can only participate in the main islands contest in order to obtain places of cultivation. As for why Stalwart Star Island is the main island, that is because the island has the best spirit veins and densest Spiritual Qi in the local sea. The other islands possess greatly inferior spirit veins in comparison.

With all this information, Han Lis expression incessantly switched between clear and gloomy.

These rules were an obvious tactic for the cultivators of the main island to ensure they held higher cultivation. All cultivators wanted a cultivation area that held great Spiritual Qi! Regardless of whether they were nurturing spiritual herbs or cultivating, it was always better to have a place with denser Spiritual Qi!

Han Li tightly tensed his brow and paced back and forth with a lowered head. He then raised his head and turned to look at the middle-aged man surnamed Gu who held an expectant expression.

Seeing that Master Gu held such a hopeful expression, Han Li sighed and slowly said, Please inform me about the cultivation levels of the other cultivators that will be fighting. If I can handle them, I will make an exception and fight on your behalf! Han Li revealed a helpless appearance.

Wang Changqing became overjoyed and hastily gave the middle-aged man a translation, causing him to become rapt with joy.

Afterwards, Han Li inwardly mused, If those cultivators arent Foundation Establishment, by relying on my puppets and incisive magic tools, I should be able to win without a problem, even with my current meager cultivation. As such, I should still be able to cultivate the Three Essence Revolutions Technique. Naturally, Ill also want to cultivate that External Reincarnation technique and Great Development Technique. They should prove to be effective lifesaving measures.

……

Four days later, a large cheer echoed throughout the huge ship. They had finally reached Stalwart Star Island.

Han Li followed the lead of Master Gu and Wang Changqing as they excitedly handled the formalities on the island for Han Li. After all, an unfamiliar cultivator to the island must be reported at the docks in order to avoid being mistaken for a malicious intruder.

As Han Li followed after the two, he silently sized up the entire port. He was left with the impression that it was truly grand! Regardless of the quantity or size of the ships, it was fundamentally incomparable to any of the small ports from the Heavenly South Region.

Unexpectedly, there were seven other remarkably huge ships similar to Master Gus ship already moored at the port. Smaller ships naturally numbered many times more.

Although Han Li didnt count carefully, he estimated that about three hundred ships were docked at the harbor. As for the crowd of people bustling about the harbor and ships, it was far more than that. freewebnvel.co

This was the first time that Han Li saw what he thought to be an ocean of people.

Chapter 366: Master Gus Business

Wang Changqing continued, Mortals that live on these islands must perform labor or pay spirit stones, otherwise, they arent allowed to reside on the island. Because of the Immortal Techniques that were placed on these islands, there is no need to fear assault from heavenly winds or demonic beasts. As such, us mortals may live without fear. In addition, the Immortal Masters powers are remarkable. Whenever us mortals travel afar, we spare no effort to hire one or two Immortal Masters to accompany us. That way if we come across any demonic beasts while at sea, we will have a chance at living. Naturally, the Immortal Masters that agree to be hired would be comparatively free when compared to those previously mentioned.

Heavenly wind? Han Li was puzzled upon hearing those words.

He knew about demonic beasts, but hadnt heard of this Heavenly Wind before.

The previous land that Immortal Master resided in didnt have attacks by heavenly wind? The old man appeared to be marveled.

I saw no heavenly winds where I previously cultivated. What are they? Something comparable to demonic beasts? Han Li calmly asked without care.

Although Wang Changqing felt doubtful, he still gave Han Li a sincere explanation, Heavenly winds, demonic beasts, and ghost mists are known as the three great natural disasters in the Scattered Star Seas. There is no need to speak of demonic beasts. Immortal Master surely knows about them more than I, but it should be known that most of the demonic beasts of the sea are beyond huge and are proficient in water attribute demonic techniques. Us mortals have no way of dealing with them. Only Immortals are able to strike them down.

As for heavenly winds, they are hurricanes that occur twice a year that sweep through the entirety of the Scattered Star Seas. The areas it passes suffer from monstrous sea waves, destroying lives and shelters. If we were not on an island protected by immortal techniques, us mortals would face certain doom. It is also said that if an Immortal were to be dragged into a heavenly wind, it would be extremely difficult to escape, and they would likely die within. Wang Changqing appeared fearful as he said this.

And the ghost mist? What kind of natural disaster is that? Han Li expressionlessly continued his questions. He wanted to understand these three natural disasters clearly, so that he would be better prepared if he happened to come across them.

The old man paused for a moment before continuing. He was truly shocked that the cultivator before him truly knew nothing about the circumstances of the sea or the most mysterious of the three greatest natural disasters, the ghost mist. Where was this cultivator from? Could it be that he came from a place of dry land? But this place was the Scattered Star Seas. Apart from the nearby sea territories, there were no large territories of land to speak of.

Restraining his bafflement, Wang Changqing continued to give Han Li an explanation, not daring to neglect him, The Ghost Mist is the most fearful and mysterious of the natural disasters of the Scattered Star Seas. It is a black mist that often drifts erratically across the sea. Any life trapped within that black mist will not escape from it. If mortals see it, their death is already decided. As for cultivators, they are no exception either, if cultivators see it, it will be far too late for them to escape as well. Although this mist is terrible, it only appears at certain locations. It never approaches the larger islands. So long as one takes precaution, it is possible to preserve ones life. As a result, this particular natural disaster has killed the fewest people despite being the most fearsome. The old man revealed some joy as he spoke.

Han Li sunk into thought after he heard this, What kind of cursed place is this? According to what was said, my plan of finding a small island with Spiritual Qi to cultivate in seclusion is worthless. Otherwise, I might run into the heavenly wind or ghost mist and meet a miserable end.

Having seen that Han Li appeared displeased, the old man became apprehensive.

Could it be that Ive said something to offend the Great Immortal?

While the old man was anxious, Han Li muttered to himself before asking, That Master Gu from before, why does he want me to go to his residence on Stalwart Star Island? Also, where is this boat currently heading?

Han Li stared at the old man with a face revealing neither joy nor anger.

The old mans heart thumped when he saw Han Lis indifferent expression and he couldnt help but hesitate.

How could Han Li not see that there was something wrong? He eased up his expression, saying, Mister Wang, be at ease. I am only asking this to clearly understand the present circumstances. After all, I cant just casually agree to Master Gus request without knowing anything. If I only have to help with a few minor errands, I wouldnt mind taking a trip to Stalwart Star Island.

Wang Chanqing knew that he could no longer stay silent, else, he would greatly offend this Immortal and be certain to face a bitter outcome. Thus, after a dry cough, he smiled and spoke while trembling, This old man begs Immortal Master to not blame him. In truth, this matter wasnt meant to be concealed. It was just that Immortal Master hadnt asked.

Han Li sardonically rolled his eyes in his mind when he was given these evasive words. Still, the old man tactfully gave an immediate explanation of the situation.

Originally, this ship had just finished making a trip for business and was en route to return to Stalwart Star Island.

As for Master Gu, he was not born and raised on Stalwart Star Island, but from one of Stalwart Star Islands subsidiary islands instead. But after he became prosperous from business, he had recently decided to move to Stalwart Star Island.

The truly lucrative business involved traveling to large, far away islands, which only mortals of Stalwart Star Island were capable of doing. Mortals that were born on the main island and those born on subsidiary islands held differing statuses.

Master Gus business was originally reselling goods among the subsidiary islands. Only after moving to the main island did he take his business a step further.

But after they arrived on the main island, Master Gu made an astonishing discovery. The business of long distance trading between the great islands wasnt something one could casually participate in. This business had been previously allocated to a set number of parties. Only ten clans on the island were able to participate in this extremely lucrative business.

In addition, these ten clans were not fixed and unchanging. They were decided in a magic battle that was held every three years.

If a clan wishes to step into this business, they must request an Immortal to undergo this competition. Only with their Immortals victory in the challenge would they be able to acquire the permit to conduct trade between the great islands.

When Master Gu learned of this, he lost his head from panic.

Because he had previously only performed short distance trade, he had never hired any cultivators as there was no threat from demonic beasts. As a result, he knew pathetically few cultivators! He originally intended to wait until he had acquired a business and slowly amassed the large sum required to hire one. But now, it was far too late.

He had received this information close to the date of the next three year magic battle. He couldnt possibly have the time to look for a cultivator to hire!

Although there were many cultivators at Stalwart Star Island, a majority of them were proud and arrogant. Only a pitiful few were willing to enter employment under a mortal and most of them would only lend their assistance if they had some relation beforehand.

As for the ten cultivators he was somewhat acquainted with, they found it embarrassing to participate in the challenge. Running short on time, Master Gu was unable to find any willing cultivators on Stalwart Star Island.

Without any better option, he took a trip to deliver goods back to the island he was born on, and he took advantage of that opportunity to ask for the assistance of a distant relative who had some relation to a cultivator. But he truly didnt expect that this particular cultivator had left on a distant journey.

Master Gu had been truly left dumbstruck.

But now, Han Li, a foreign cultivator, had entered his boat. Having finally found a cultivator despite his previous disconcerting failures had left Master Gu overjoyed. Although he didnt know the level of Han Lis cultivation, it was better than being forced to give up and wait for another three years! Therefore, he had previously attempted to rope Han Li in at all costs and have Han Li fight on his behalf.

Having heard this, Han Li was left completely speechless.

When he heard that cultivators were hired by mortals to go to sea, he found this unbelievable. But now having heard that cultivators fought magic battles on behalf of mortals for the qualifications to do trade between large islands, Han Li was temporarily at a loss for words.

It seemed that although cultivators in this area were an aloof and remote crowd, they did not feel that it was beneath their dignity to work under mortals. Instead, it seemed that mortals and cultivators shared some sort of tangled relationship here.

However, hed rather avoid participating in a magic battle for Master Gus long distance trade qualifications. He was not so desperate for pay.

But he still felt somewhat uncertain. With a faint smile, he slowly asked, Mister Wang, I am truly inexperienced. I still have something I must consult with you about.

If there is anything Immortal Master does not understand, please ask! This old man will do his best to answer! The old man respectfully replied with haste.

I find myself at a loss. If one wanted to carry goods between islands, why would they have ordinary mortals ferry them across the sea? Are Immortals unwilling to use their storage pouch and other such magic tools? Isnt flying both faster and safer?

Chapter 365: Wang Changqing

Han Li gazed at those huge ten-meter-long fish from a distance and flew around the ship twice before finally deciding to head towards it.

It was clear that those on the ship had seen Han Li coming. With a few loud shouts, a huge crowd of over three hundred people amassed, filling the entire bow of the ship.

Once these people saw Han Li hovering in midair, they revealed reverence and started to bow and salute Han Li.

While Han Li was amazed by the display, a luxuriously dressed middle-aged man stepped forward from the crowd and nervously said something. He helplessly stood by as if he were waiting for Han Lis command.

Han Li stroked his nose and bitterly laughed. He wasnt able to understand or make sense of a single word of their language. The question of how to communicate with them made his head hurt.

Seeing that Han Li didnt reply, the middle-aged man grew panicked and urgently said something. Although Han Li didnt understand what he said, he was able to make out what he meant.

Han Li wrinkled his brow. After some thought, he spoke out in the common tongue of the Heavenly South Region, If there is anyone here that can understand my words, please tell me! Han Li then swept his gaze across the crowd. freewebnovel.c

The middle-aged man appeared at a loss. It was quite obvious that he didnt understand what Han Li had said. As for the others, they were also left baffled.

Han Li helplessly sighed and started to use the words of several different ancient languages, using them each once through. He had initially learned these ancient languages in order to cultivate tongue twisting incantations, but he hadnt mastered them in the slightest. Eventually, a gray haired old man from the crowd seemed to have reacted to one of the languages.

Han Li felt overjoyed upon seeing this and pointed toward the old man.

Old man, do you understand my words? Han Li slowly spoke using the ancient language. As he didnt use the language often, he was very unfamiliar with it.

When the old man heard Han Li, he hesitated for a moment before walking to the side of the middle aged man. Also using the ancient language, he respectfully replied, This old man, Wang Changqing, had indeed learned this Immortal Clans language when he was young. Does this Immortal Master have any commands?

Han Li revealed a slight smile upon seeing that the old man had understood the ancient language. His figure suddenly flashed and he appeared beside the old man, startling both the old and middle-aged man.

Han Li spoke with a gentle tone, As you well know, I am not able to speak the local tongue. I only passed by here to ask about a few matters. There is no need to panic!

He had previously swept his spiritual sense throughout the huge boat and found that the ship only housed mortals. Because he found no cultivators, he was able to descend without worry.

Han Li didnt pay notice to the mutterings of the old and middle-aged man. Instead, he beckoned to his Divine Wind Boat in the sky, causing it to slowly descend toward the ship bow.

After Crooked Soul got off the Divine Wind Boat, the small boat quickly shrunk into a small white light and flew into Han Lis hand.

After this was done, Han Li took a sideways glance.

Although the mortals on the ship saw this, they didnt appear shocked at all and maintained their original reverent expression. They were clearly accustomed to seeing cultivators and their tricks. Otherwise, they wouldnt have appeared nearly as calm. Also, since these people didnt seem to come from particularly exceptional backgrounds, it appeared that it wasnt taboo for the cultivators of this land to reveal themselves to mortals.

Han Li thought with a pensive expression.

Currently, the old man had translated Han Lis words for the middle-aged man. The middle-aged man was initially shocked before revealing pleasant surprise. He then said a long string of unintelligible words towards Han Li with an extremely excited expression.

Han Li felt at a loss and couldnt help but turn his gaze towards the old man.

The old man naturally understood what Han Li meant. He quickly gave Han Li an explanation, Great Immortal, this man is Sir Gu, the master of this ship. He intends to invite you to reside as a guest at his residence on the Stalwart Star Island. He is willing to supply the resources for your cultivation.

Stalwart Star Island? Han Li rubbed his chin and gave a noncommittal response.

Seeing that Han Li wore an indifferent expression, the middle aged man became even more fervent and uttered another long string of words. This time, he revealed an apologetic smile. Han Li didnt need the old mans translation to understand why he wanted to invite Han Li to stay on the Stalwart Star Island.

Without waiting for the old man to translate, Han Li bluntly waved his hand and said, First, tell this ships master that I am new to this noble land and am unfamiliar with the local conventions. Consequently, I am not able to agree to anything. I will decide whether I want to stay on his Stalwart Star Island after I am given an explanation. Also, I currently do not understand your language. I hope he will allow me to follow this ship for a few days so that I may learn the local language and a few local conventions from you in passing.

Not daring to slight Han Li, he hurriedly gave the middle-aged man a translation.

When the middle aged man heard Han Li, he revealed obvious disappointment. But still, he respectfully saluted Han Li and loudly yelled a few words behind him. Suddenly, everyone on the bow withdrew from the deck like a swarm of bees. After giving the old man his reply, he also withdrew.

As such, only Han Li and the old man remained at the ships bow.

The old man smiled to Han Li and said, Immortal Master, Master Gu has agreed to your request. In addition, he has given you a room on the ship. Please follow me.

Han Li agreed, indifferently nodding his head. As such, Han Li and Crooked Soul followed the old man, Wang Changqing, into the ship.

Its certainly large! That was Han Lis first thought upon entering the ships hold. The ships hold had paths and corridors in every direction and an unknown number of rooms.Whenever a mortal saw Han Li, they revealed reverent expressions and made way for Han Li.

After several turns, Han Li and Crooked Soul arrived at a comparatively large wooden door.

Wang Changqing pushed open the door without any hesitation and stepped to the side, inviting Han Li to enter first. Han Li didnt bother being polite and entered the room with Crooked Soul in tow, taking a look around afterwards.

The room was quite decent! Not only was it quite large, it also didnt feel stuffy at all. But what caused Han Li to be most curious was a small odd tree in a flower pot in the corner of the room.

The tree was perfectly straight and was completely branchless with palm-sized triangular leaves growing all over it. In addition, the entire tree glittered with silver light as if it were made out of pure silver. Upon seeing the tree, Han Li revealed great curiosity..

When the old man saw Han Lis amazement, he respectfully gave Han Li an explanation, It seems that Immortal Master hasnt seen a Silver Angled Tree before. It really is an uncommon rarity. Not only is it a gorgeous sight, it freshens and cleans the air when placed inside. It is a seldom seen treasure for seafarers. It is only because our ship master is such an domineeringly rich man that he was able to acquire four of them.

Han Li faintly smiled but remained silent. How could he not make out that this Wang Changqing was trying to curry favor on the ship masters behalf?

Han Li had Crooked Soul guard the door and sat down in the rooms chair. Wang Changqing reservedly stood at Han Lis side, not daring to sit down as he pleased.

Han Li smiled from seeing his restraint and amiably said, Mister Wang, there is no need to be so formal. Please take a seat. There are a few things that Id like to discuss with you.

Wang Changqing repeatedly stated that he didnt dare to in a manner of reverence and trepidation.

Han Li wrinkled his brow in response and didnt press him any further.

After a short moment of thought, he straightforwardly asked, I am a cultivator that came here from another land. I was wondering if Mister Wang could give me an introduction to the nearby regions and customs. Naturally, the more that you can tell me about matters pertaining to cultivators, the better. I will certainly give this elderly man my thanks! As Han Li spoke, his expression was tranquil as can be.

Wang Changqing pondered for a moment before slowly saying, Since Immortal Master came from a foreign land, then I must first tell you that this place is the Scattered Stars Sea. We are in the southwest quadrant of this area. The three great islands nearby are the Tail Star Island, Stalwart Star Island, and Sang Star Island. Naturally, there are also many islands of smaller sizes with both cultivators and mortals living on each.

We share the same conventions as those of other territorial waters. Every island has an island lord, a cultivator with the greatest magic power that is responsible for protecting the island. If other cultivators wish settle on the island and are willing to hold an office, they will be given a set amount of spirit stones from the island lord every year, but they must obey the island lords commands. Naturally, if one were to reside on an island and was unwilling to hold an office, they would be required to give the island lord a set amount of spirit stones every year if they wished to remain on the island.

With that said, Wang Changqing paused, revealing an expression of admiration as if he held great longing towards cultivators.