《SAIL TO THE HORIZON SKY》


 Chapter 1: Prey in the Night

    The night was a mesmerizing haze; neon lights intertwined and flickered, steeping the entire bar in an atmosphere of ambiguity and indulgence. At the center of the dance floor, a dazzling figure swayed with practiced ease on the high platform. Black leather pants clung to his taut waistline, and bare-chested under the lights, delicate beads of sweat glistened on his skin. Muscle lines tensed and relaxed with every movement, fluid, and wild as a leopard.


    Lin Rui, a 25-year-old private investigator and part-time Go-Go dancer, was stationed in the heart of Neon Dive, Los Angeles'' hottest gay bar. Hand braced on the steel frame overhead, he moved to the deafening electronic rhythm, casting a meaningful smile toward the crowd below the platform.


    Men below cheered, waving their glasses, some throwing back their heads to whistle, others attempting to reach out, hands creeping up his thighs. Lin Rui was used to it. With a twist of his hips, he deftly dodged a restless hand, not quite shaking it off, but instead, bending down smoothly, fingertips hooking under the man''s chin, gently lifting his face.


    The man panted, his gaze burning with undisguised ardor.


    Lin Rui chuckled softly, leaning closer, lips brushing against the other''s ear as if by accident, carrying warm breath.


    "Be a good boy, darling."


    His voice was soft and seductive, the corners of his lips curving slightly upwards, yet his eyes held a hint of detachment.


    The man''s ears instantly flushed crimson, Adam''s apple bobbing, and he promptly pulled out a hundred-dollar bill, expertly tucking it into Lin Rui''s leather belt at his waist.


    Easy money.


    Lin Rui gracefully accepted it, glancing up. His narrow, almond-shaped eyes glinted with a dangerous light in the neon glow.


    He reveled in this feeling-the prey thought they controlled the hunter, but in reality, they were the ones being controlled.


    He had once thought that with his intelligence, he could thrive in this city. After all, hearts and minds were easier to manipulate than dance steps. Liars always left openings, the greedy always revealed their flaws, and lovers'' betrayals were often hidden in their subtle gestures.


    He had always been adept at seizing these details, even believing he could make a "smart living" as a private investigator. But what was the reality?


    -Private detectives were a dime a dozen. How many weren''t just scraping by on petty cases: finding affairs, locating lost pets, digging up dirt for extortion?


    The business was bleak, and his wallet was perpetually empty.


    But what truly hammered home the ruthlessness of capitalism was that farcical loan shark incident.


    Wang Ruohan.


    Each time this name surfaced in his mind, he couldn''t help but laugh. A laugh that was so bitter it ached his heart.


    "Baby, could you do me a small favor?"


    "Lin Rui, aren''t you supposed to be the smartest? How could something this trivial be a problem for you? If you''re worried, look into it, investigate it yourself."


    "Just a quick loan; I''ll pay it back tomorrow. How could I ever screw you over?"


    The man who once held him close, calling him "baby" in a voice thick with sex appeal, had tricked him into signing a loan agreement for a staggering five figures, promising repayment the very next day.


    And then?


    The next day, Wang Ruohan was gone, vanished overnight, bag and baggage, along with the money. Phone numbers, social media, and all accounts were deleted and completely evaporated from existence.


    Leaving him alone to face the collection calls, threatening texts, debt collectors at his door, and his utterly idiotic face.


    "Lin Rui, you''re a goddamn fool. Calling yourself the smartest private detective, you got played like a fiddle by some guy."


    He stared at himself in the mirror, cursing under his breath, fingers clenching until his nails dug deep crescents into his palm.


    -From that day on, he learned the reality of human hearts.


    Feelings? Fuck feelings.


    He began to learn how to wield "love" as a tool. The more devoted and sincere you appeared, the more reluctant people were to let go.


    "Capitalism? Fine by me. Then I''ll turn around and exploit the wallets of you old geezers."


    Since his face and body could rake in dozens of times more profit than cracking cases, why not cash in?


    Lin Rui chuckled, swaying to the music on stage while casting a flirtatious glance toward a few regulars below.


    By the dance floor, a man in a well-tailored suit raised his glass. His gaze locked on Lin Rui''s bare waist and abdomen, his eyes burning with predatory heat.


    Lin Rui sauntered off the stage, approaching with a languid gait.


    "Remember me?" The man''s voice was deep and resonant.


    Lin Rui''s lips curved into a slight smile. He casually propped one leg on a barstool, leaning forward, half-pressing himself into the man''s space, fingers idly tracing across the back of the other''s hand.


    "That''s hardly a decent opening line."


    He deliberately tightened his leg muscles, adjusting his posture to let the leather pants perfectly outline the curve of his waist and hips. Blinking an eye, he murmured, "A sugar daddy of your caliber should learn more creative pick-up lines."


    The man sucked in a breath, raised his glass, and took a sip, his gaze tracing a path down Lin Rui''s neck to his shoulders, Adam''s apple bobbing slightly.


    "You''re a... beautiful little con artist."


    "Thanks for the compliment." Lin Rui chuckled softly. In the next second, he reached out without warning, snatching a hundred-dollar bill from the man''s pocket, slender fingers twirling it in the air. "But if you want to chat me up, you gotta pay the fee."


    The man''s pupils constricted as if wanting to seize his wrist, but Lin Rui easily dodged him.


    "Hey, babe."


    From behind, another younger man approached with a smile, his tone laced with a hint of displeasure, seemingly jealous, "You''re not gonna ditch me tonight, are you?"


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Lin Rui turned his head, glancing at the newcomer-a blond, blue-eyed, pretty boy who had a few drinks, too many, and was slightly tipsy.


    He smiled, deepening his voice deliberately, "Oh, babe, of course not."


    After finishing speaking, he leaned in smoothly, nipping lightly at the other''s chin. The tip of his tongue carried a subtle coolness as it traced the line of his jaw.


    "Don''t rush, we''ve got all night."


    The young man''s pupils dilated slightly, a flush of tipsy crimson rising on his cheeks.


    Lin Rui turned back, shrugging at the suited man. " It looks like you''re losing out to this little brother tonight."


    He spoke with breezy nonchalance, then snapped his fingers at the bartender by the stage, signaling for a Whiskey Sour, then settled onto a barstool, casually stuffing the just-snagged bill into his pocket as if nothing had happened.


    The hunter-and-prey game was one he always played with more finesse than anyone else.


    But this particular game was about to meet an unexpected end.


    Three AM, and the revelry at Neon Dive finally wound down. The bar crowd dispersed in twos and threes, drunks waving haphazardly at the bar, hoarsely ordering one last drink. Servers wearily cleared tables cluttered with empty bottles and scattered bills, the air thick with the mingled scent of liquor, perfume, sweat, and post-debauchery emptiness.


    Backstage in the dressing room, Lin Rui zipped up his dark jacket, ducking his head to shake out a wrist sore from exertion. His fingertips still tingled faintly, a lingering numbness from overusing the pole.


    Stepping onto the back door steps of the bar, he shrugged his shoulders. The dancer under the neon lights vanished instantly and was replaced by a shrewd, sharp-eyed hunter.


    "Finally off work, damn it." He muttered under his breath, reaching up to crack his neck, knuckles popping with a crisp "crack, crack."


    Night wind poured into his collar, dissipating the alcoholic haze and ambiguous allure clinging to him.


    But tonight-the actual work was beginning.


    Lin Rui''s current client was a wealthy Tai-tai, her husband a business tycoon, outwardly respectable, but secretly seeking thrills in places like Neon Dive. The man was a celebrated figure in finance, a philanthropist on social media, but in reality, just a serial philandering bastard.


    The Tai-Tai had noticed unusual spending patterns from her husband recently, unexplained expenses cropping up on his credit card statements. The frequent location? Neon Dive - coincidentally, also Lin Rui''s workplace. But this time, the target wasn''t just any ordinary fling.


    The information she provided Lin Rui was simple: this "young prey" was no ordinary lover. Her husband was unusually infatuated, even venturing out late at night frequently, his movements increasingly secretive.


    Lin Rui had initially assumed this was just another clich¨¦: wealthy man cheats, keeps a young male lover, suspicious wife notices anomalies, then shells out cash for a private investigator to dig up dirt, gather evidence, and finally, divorce, property division, and walk away.


    But when Lin Rui actually started reviewing surveillance footage and tracking the target, he sensed something amiss-this "prey" was more than just prey.


    Any ordinary person would leave traces of life behind-at the very least, they''d buy groceries at a supermarket, swipe a credit card at a coffee shop, or even if just a full-time kept man, they''d have social media accounts, WeChat Moments, at least one blurry selfie.


    But this person had absolutely no life records.


    Lin Rui later employed several methods to investigate. He tracked the man''s movements via the bar''s internal surveillance, discovering that the target appeared almost exclusively during fixed time slots, each stays lasting less than two hours.


    Then he attempted to hack into credit card transaction systems, only to find the other party had no spending records whatsoever. He seemed less like a living, breathing person, and more like a... meticulously crafted "false identity."


    He''d also inquired discreetly among regular patrons, but almost no one truly "knew" this person, only that he was "very young," "very beautiful," and "a bit mysterious."


    -It was too clean, clean to the point of being unreal.


    Lin Rui deliberately tested the waters a few times in the bar. He observed the target from the shadows, but time and again, the target would subconsciously drift towards blind spots in the surveillance, and once, after a brief eye contact with the target in the dance floor, the other man subtly narrowed his eyes almost imperceptibly, then vanished into the crowded throng.


    Intuition screamed at him-


    This person wasn''t an ordinary "young lover" but more like someone evading surveillance.


    Or worse-


    He was also surveilling others.


    Just as Lin Rui prepared to delve deeper, he discovered a detail that sent a chill down his spine.


    He had always thought of himself as the hunter, investigating the truth about the prey. But just last night, as was his habit, he reviewed the surveillance footage near his apartment building, only to discover a familiar figure in a dimly lit alleyway on the corner-


    That "young prey."


    Standing under the pale yellow glow of a streetlamp, head tilted, glancing up towards his window, then slowly, a faint smile spreading across his lips.


    As if greeting him.


    Lin Rui remembered clearly, he had never exposed his identity, never had direct contact with the target. All tracking and investigation had been conducted remotely.


    Yet this person... knew who he was?


    This was the most dangerous signal-hunters stalked by their prey rarely met good ends.


    This morning, the Tai-tai had informed Lin Rui that her husband would rendezvous with that "young prey" again tonight, and even told Lin Rui the precise location, hoping he would photograph this sordid transaction.


    The night wind was biting; neon reflections stretched distorted across the slick asphalt of Los Angeles streets, the air permeated with the dampness unique to post-rain, mingled with a faint whiff of motor oil and decaying mold. Lin Rui tightened his jacket, proceeding silently down the dimly lit alley, soles occasionally crunching over broken glass and discarded cigarette butts, the faint, brittle sounds swallowed by the oppressive quiet.


    But as he arrived at the designated location, a primal sense of alarm halted his steps.


    -Too quiet.


    Lin Rui narrowed his eyes slightly. This wasn''t ordinary quiet; it was deathly silence, as if all sound had been devoured. His ears strained to catch any hint of wind, traffic noise, or even the subtle rustling of rats scavenging in trash cans-all vanished.


    He had stepped into a zone stripped of "sound."


    Instinct screamed at him that this wasn''t usual quietude but a manufactured silence.


    His heart began to race uncontrollably, he held his breath, hand stealthily slipping into his jacket pocket, gripping the foldable knife he always carried.


    Patta-


    A drop of icy liquid landed on his shoe.


    Lin Rui froze, slowly tilting his head upwards.


    On the ceiling, a figure hung upside down.


    It was a corpse, headless.


    Clothes tattered, muscles slack, deathly grotesque, the blood from its chest had not fully congealed, dripping down drop by drop along the ceiling seams, like some eerie countdown.


    And the most unsettling part was-the corpse wasn''t suspended by rope, not even a trace of any fixture; it just "floated" there, as if "nailed" to the ceiling by some invisible force.


    "Shit." Lin Rui instantly held his breath.


    This wasn''t ordinary murder; this wasn''t even something human hands could accomplish.


    He took a step back, right hand whipping the foldable knife from his pocket. But at that moment, an incredibly faint rustling sound brushed past his ears from behind.


    -Like darkness, itself was subtly writhing.


    "You shouldn''t have come."


    The voice was low, chilling, like something slithering out of a damp cave, laced with a hint of deliberately suppressed pleasure.


    Lin Rui barely had time to think, instinctively rolling aside to evade, but in the end, he was a split second too slow-


    Behind him, an invisible force slammed heavily into the back of his head!


    Boom!


    The world instantly spun, heavens and earth overturned before his eyes. He crashed heavily onto the concrete floor, a roaring din erupting in his mind, a violent numbness surging through his limbs.


    -Wrong. This wasn''t a typical blunt force attack but a kind of unknown, invasive sensation.


    It felt like something had burrowed into his body, tearing at his consciousness, dragging his soul down into deeper and deeper depths.


    Thoughts fractured in an instant. Lin Rui''s vision began to warp, and in the blurring world, he vaguely saw a dark figure standing before him.


    No facial features, no discernible form, only a pair of icy, cold eyes, watching him with keen interest.


    He heard that voice again, low and slow as if appreciating an elegant slaughter.


    "Such a pity to be this good-looking."


    The next second, utter darkness devoured him.


    Lin Rui had no idea how long he''d been unconscious.


    He only felt himself adrift in some frigid waters, body immobile, silence all around.


    Indistinctly, voices echoed in his ears-


    "...Will he wake up?"


    "Rest assured, this body... won''t die."


    The voices sounded distant and muffled, as if transmitted from beyond another world or like some lingering echo from the depths of his mind.


    Lin Rui''s consciousness began to be dragged by some force. He felt himself being "squeezed out" of his original body, as if an invisible thread was tethering his soul, traversing endless darkness, plummeting towards some unknown destination.


    The space around him tore open, and in the final image, he vaguely glimpsed-


    A primeval bamboo forest, verdant green mist swirling through the grove, the air thick with the damp scent of wood.


    And unfamiliar whispers echoed in his mind.


    "...Please, live on for me."


    When he opened his eyes once more, the world had irrevocably changed.

 Chapter 2: Rebirth in a Coffin

    Darkness, dampness, frigidity.


    The sensation of suffocation clung to Lin Rui, relentless. He jolted his eyes open, chest heaving, gasping for breath as if a hand were clamped around his throat. His body was encased by heavy wooden planks, limbs stiff, hands and feet powerless, nostrils filled with the dry scent of sandalwood and a faint, almost imperceptible whiff of decay.


    ¡ªA coffin.


    He was in a coffin.


    "Shit..." Lin Rui''s brain snapped awake. He attempted to raise his hand to push open the coffin lid, but a jolt of muscle cramps shot through him. His entire being felt sealed off, his Qi flowing stagnant, and even the simplest movements became arduous.


    ¡ªThis body had died once already.


    Just then, a torrent of jumbled memory fragments flooded his mind, like a forcefully injected stream of information, causing his brain to roar.


    Memories of the predecessor¡ª


    Bamboo Cloud Town, Lin Family, Lin Rui.


    ¡ªHis mother had mysteriously disappeared when he was young. His father, Lin Yuntian, was the fifth son of the current family head, Lin Tianhua, and a cultivator. Though lacking remarkable talent, he had steadily progressed through unwavering loyalty and diligent cultivation, step by step reaching the "Foundation Elixir Art Stage" ( µ¤¾÷³õÁ¶ - D¨¡nju¨¦ Ch¨±li¨¤n, Initial Refinement of Elixir Art£¬6th Level), barely squeezing into the ranks of official family stewards.


    Lin Yuntian received a family order a year ago and was dispatched to the Qingluo Prefecture border to investigate "unusual secret mine activity. " He has not returned since, and his fate is unknown.


    With his father gone, Lin Rui''s situation became even more precarious.


    The Lin Family was a cultivation clan. All resources were tilted towards descendants with "cultivation prospects." At the same time, Lin Rui, to this day, has not even achieved "Mystic Method Enlightenment" (ÃØ·¨ÆôÃÉ - M¨¬f¨£ Q¨«m¨¦ng£¬1st Level), remaining stuck in the ordinary mortal stage. His meridians were inherently sluggish and blocked, his cultivation speed excruciatingly slow. In the eyes of the family, such aptitude was synonymous with uselessness.


    The family elders had long given up on nurturing him. They deprived him of his right to use the family''s cultivation grounds and withheld even the lowest-grade elixirs, deeming his existence a waste of resources.


    The only person who loved him¡ªhis father¡ªwas now also gone.


    Ostracized within the family¡ª


    In the depths of Lin Rui''s memory, scenes of ridicule and neglect from family disciples surfaced.


    "He still hasn''t mastered even the introductory chapter of the Lin Family Heart Sutra? So many years, and he is still at ''Heart Sutra Initial Cultivation,'' what a waste!"


    "Heard his father hasn''t returned for a year, probably dead. No wonder the clan won''t even waste spiritual Qi on the residence he lives in."


    "What''s the point of someone like him living? Can''t cultivate, not even fit to be a servant."


    ...


    Unable to cultivate meant lacking a voice. Without cultivation, there was no status. Strength was the only rule in this family, and he was merely an ordinary clansman incapable of advancement.


    But Lin Rui had never given up on cultivation. Year-round, he persisted with physical training and muscle and bone tempering, and alone in the bamboo forest behind the mountain, he had attempted countless times to regulate his breathing, even if spiritual Qi flowed so sluggishly that he could only absorb a minuscule wisp of spiritual breath a day, even as those remarkably talented family disciples could break through realms in mere days, he still gritted his teeth and persevered.


    ¡ªUntil a month ago, he began to sense something was wrong with his body.


    Initially, it was just fatigue and dizziness. He had assumed it was due to over-cultivation, but soon, he discovered the Qi within his body growing weaker and weaker, even the Heart Sutra''s circulation becoming sluggish.


    Days later, he couldn''t complete the most basic breath regulation exercises.


    Afterward, his breathing grew heavy, and his limbs weak until even gripping a bamboo branch became difficult. Exhausting what little strength remained, he dragged his frail body to the Scripture Pavilion, poring over every medical text he could find, finally locating a familiar symptom description in a tattered medical scroll¡ª


    "Soul Powder, colorless and odorless, capable of sealing meridians, causing a cultivator''s spiritual power to wither, ultimately leading to exhaustion and demise."


    Lin Rui''s fingers clenched the page, knuckles bone-white.


    He had been poisoned.


    Vendettas were not uncommon within the family, but he possessed nothing and posed no threat to anyone. Then, who wanted him dead?


    Vague possibilities flickered in his mind, yet evidence remained elusive. And the family would hardly care how a "useless waste incapable of cultivation" died.


    On the very night, he resolved to uncover the truth, his body finally succumbed to the toxin''s insidious erosion. His consciousness plunged into darkness, the last image seared into his mind¡ªhimself collapsed on cold, hard flagstones, a thread of coppery blood welling in his throat.


    Until now, he had awakened.


    "...You''re awake."


    Lin Rui''s consciousness returned from the tide of memories, a pang seizing his chest, a faint voice echoing in his ears.


    ¡ªIt was the former Lin Rui.


    The boy''s voice was hoarse, muted, calm yet desolate and sorrowful as if he had already accepted his own demise.


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    "I... knew I wasn''t good enough after all."


    "If only I could be as strong as you."


    "But, since you''ve lived... could you live on for me?"


    Lin Rui closed his eyes, slowly curling his fingers into a fist. The wood grain of the coffin wall was distinct beneath his palm.


    ¡ªStrong?


    A sudden urge to laugh welled up within him.


    Was he strong?


    Los Angeles. The childhood orphanage. Damp, double-decker iron beds. The clamor and squabbles of children. The wail of sirens screaming past. And the indifferent adults.


    "This child is clever but too unsociable."


    "He doesn''t cry or fuss like a little wolf cub."


    "No matter what happens, he carries it all himself, never asking for help, never shedding a tear."


    From a young age, he understood that no one would come to save him.


    Orphanage kids were constantly bullied. When he first arrived, he was small and quiet; he looked like easy prey. But the first time he was beaten black and blue, he didn''t cry. Instead, he bit back his pain, waiting in the night until those bullies were sound asleep, then retaliating in the most cold-blooded manner.


    After that, no one dared to touch him carelessly.


    "You''re strong."


    He vaguely remembered a boy his age saying this to him once.


    But what use was strength? Hunger wouldn''t torment you less for being strong; no one would spare you a second glance just because you fought back.


    So, he learned to be self-reliant, distrustful, and depend only on himself.


    He became a private investigator, using his intellect to earn money, trying to live a little easier in this dog-eat-dog world.


    But he had still failed.


    A rainy night in Los Angeles, a damp, deserted parking lot, that whispering shadow, a heavy, silencing blow... he hadn''t even had a chance to resist before being plunged into darkness.


    ¡ªYes, perhaps he had never indeed won.


    Lin Rui chuckled softly, his voice dry and raspy, laced with a hint of self-deprecation.


    Yet, never had he imagined, upon opening his eyes, he would be granted a second life.


    Alive, within the body of another "Lin Rui."


    "Do you know..." That faint voice echoed again, the Bamboo Cloud Town Lin Rui continued, his tone still gentle and serene. "When I was little, I was always afraid of the dark."


    Lin Rui blinked, momentarily taken aback.


    "The nights here are cold. The windows in my room never quite closed properly, wind whistling in, like something was trying to drag me away." The boy spoke slowly, as if lost in reminiscence. "I told Father, but he was always away on missions, never home. No one in the family cared about me, and I didn''t dare to speak up, because they all thought I was unwanted."


    Lin Rui frowned slightly, fingers drumming against the coffin''s inner wall, scoffing softly, "Afraid of the dark? What''s there to fear? It''ll be dawn eventually."


    "...It''s not the same," the Bamboo Cloud Town Lin Rui murmured. "You know you''ll see the dawn, but I didn''t."


    Lin Rui''s fingertips paused mid-drum.


    "You grew up in Los Angeles, didn''t you? I absorbed your memories before you awakened too. The nights there, streetlights are so bright, neon dazzling in every color imaginable. Even standing in a bar back alley, you can still hear the distant hum of traffic."


    "But Bamboo Cloud Town is different."


    "The nights in my courtyard, they were pitch-black, couldn''t see your own hand in front of your face. The nights here, no streetlights, no sound. You start to feel like... forgotten by the world."


    "And then, you really will be forgotten."


    The boy spoke slowly, his voice fading lower and lower, until it dwindled to a mere sigh.


    "I always thought, if I just tried a little harder, maybe I wouldn''t be forgotten."


    "Maybe Father would return, maybe the family would accept me again, maybe... I really could become a cultivator."


    "But I still died."


    "So... could you help me?"


    Lin Rui drew a deep breath, leaning back against the coffin, two vastly different nights flashing through his mind simultaneously¡ª


    Los Angeles, neon bar lights, bustling, gaudy, humid air.


    Bamboo Cloud Town, dark nights, quiet, cold, a solitude that swallowed you whole.


    The former Lin Rui had longed to be seen. And himself?


    He had never needed anyone''s attention, never cared how the world viewed him.


    Yet now, he was being entrusted by a dead boy with the task of "living on."


    ¡ªLive on?


    This time, perhaps he would try.


    Lin Rui exhaled softly, licked his chapped lips, a wry smile playing on his lips, tinged with resignation, yet also a hint of amusement.


    "...You, huh? Fine then, I''ll try my best."


    He raised his hand, abruptly pushing outwards with every ounce of strength he possessed¡ª


    Bang!


    The coffin lid slammed open with a resounding bang, icy air rushing in, the lit sandalwood incense drifting languidly within the ancestral hall, the slightly trembling ancestral tablets lending an air of solemn majesty to the entire hall.


    Outside the coffin, the Lin Family Ancestral Hall stood solemn and silent.


    Several Lin clansmen were murmuring amongst themselves nearby. The sudden tremor of the coffin startled them into stillness, turning back, dumbfounded.


    And amidst their shocked gazes, Lin Rui propped himself up slowly in the coffin, disheveled short hair, face deathly pale, yet a sardonic smile curling at the corner of his lips, his entire being exuding an eerie aura, as if returned from the underworld, chillingly uncanny.


    Lin Rui chuckled softly, his voice dry and raspy, laced with a hint of self-deprecation.


    Yet, never had he imagined, upon opening his eyes, he would be granted a second life.


    Alive, within the body of another "Lin Rui."


    "Do you know..." That faint voice echoed again, the Bamboo Cloud Town Lin Rui continued, his tone still gentle and serene. "When I was little, I was always afraid of the dark."


    Lin Rui blinked, momentarily taken aback.


    "The nights here are cold. The windows in my room never quite closed properly, wind whistling in, like something was trying to drag me away." The boy spoke slowly as if lost in reminiscence. "I told Father, but he was always away on missions, never home. No one in the family cared about me, and I didn''t dare to speak up because they all thought I was unwanted."


    Lin Rui frowned slightly, fingers drumming against the coffin''s inner wall, scoffing softly, "Afraid of the dark? What''s there to fear? It''ll be dawn eventually."


    "...It''s not the same," the Bamboo Cloud Town Lin Rui murmured. "You know you''ll see the dawn, but I didn''t."


    Lin Rui''s fingertips paused mid-drum.


    "You grew up in Los Angeles, didn''t you? I absorbed your memories before you awakened, too. The nights there, streetlights are so bright, neon, and dazzling in every color imaginable. Even standing in a bar back alley, you can still hear the distant hum of traffic."


    "But Bamboo Cloud Town is different."


    "The nights in my courtyard were pitch-black, and you couldn''t see your own hand in front of your face. The nights here, no streetlights, no sound. You start to feel like... forgotten by the world."


    "And then, you really will be forgotten."


    The boy spoke slowly, his voice fading lower and lower until it dwindled to a mere sigh.


    "I always thought, if I just tried a little harder, maybe I wouldn''t be forgotten."


    "Maybe Father would return, maybe the family would accept me again, maybe... I really could become a cultivator."


    "But I still died."


    "So... could you help me?"


    Lin Rui drew a deep breath, leaning back against the coffin, two vastly different nights flashing through his mind simultaneously¡ª


    Los Angeles, neon bar lights, bustling, gaudy, humid air.


    Bamboo Cloud Town, dark nights, quiet, cold, a solitude that swallowed you whole.


    The former Lin Rui had longed to be seen. And himself?


    He had never needed anyone''s attention, never cared how the world viewed him.


    Yet now, he was being entrusted by a dead boy with the task of "living on."


    ¡ªLive on?


    This time, he may try.


    Lin Rui exhaled softly, licked his chapped lips, a wry smile playing on his lips, tinged with resignation, yet also a hint of amusement.


    "...You, huh? Fine then, I''ll try my best."


    He raised his hand, abruptly pushing outwards with every ounce of strength he possessed¡ª


    Bang!


    The coffin lid slammed open with a resounding bang, icy air rushing in, the lit sandalwood incense drifting languidly within the ancestral hall, the slightly trembling ancestral tablets lending an air of solemn majesty to the entire hall.


    Outside the coffin, the Lin Family Ancestral Hall stood solemn and silent.


    Several Lin clansmen were murmuring amongst themselves nearby. The sudden tremor of the coffin startled them into stillness, turning back, dumbfounded.


    And amidst their shocked gazes, Lin Rui propped himself up slowly in the coffin, disheveled short hair, face deathly pale, yet a sardonic smile curling at the corner of his lips, his entire being exuding an eerie aura, as if returned from the underworld, chillingly uncanny.

 Chapter 3: Slaying

    Lin Rui''s voice was low and raspy yet laced with a provocative chill.


    "What''s the rush? Barely a day since I died, and you''re already eager to bury me?"


    The Lin Family disciples, elders, and stewards present recoiled in shock. Many immediately probed Lin Rui''s body with their divine sense, attempting to ascertain if he was possessed by a ghost cultivator, afflicted by demonic cultivation, or if his departed soul had somehow returned to life.


    Nothing amiss!


    No signs of possession! No demonic cultivator''s aura! No residual traces of soul-tearing or ghost cultivator''s attachment!


    -This was truly Lin Rui!


    "H-how is this possible?"


    "He was clearly dead just moments ago!"


    "This is..."


    The Lin Family members in the hall stared in stunned disbelief at the "risen-from-the-dead" youth, whispers erupting in a rising tide.


    Amidst the collective bewilderment, Lin Rui raised a hand, massaging his temple, and sighed softly. Then, he slowly lifted his gaze, his eyes chilling, yet a sardonic smile playing on his lips.


    "What''s all the commotion?"


    His voice wasn''t loud, yet it instantly silenced the entire ancestral hall.


    The next moment, his tone turned somber and ethereal,


    "The Ancestor has just passed, and you juniors already lack even a shred of reverence?"


    -Boom!!


    Everyone froze instantly, their faces shifting hues.


    "The Ancestor has manifested, specifically to scold you, unfilial descendants!"


    The flames flickered faintly within the hall. The incense candles behind the ancestral tablets abruptly ignited without wind, swaying slightly. The fire cast flickering shadows across Lin Rui''s face, a mask of nonchalant mockery.


    Several aged elders'' complexions paled drastically. Rumors of "ancestral manifestations" were no jesting matter in the cultivation world. For prominent clans like the Lin Family, the most taboo offenses were disrespect towards bloodlines and juniors bullying their kin.


    If this were true, it would mean... the Lin Family Ancestors were still watching them!


    "The Ancestral Precepts exist-do you all still recall them?"


    Lin Rui rose slowly, placing his hands behind his back, and strolled to the center of the ancestral hall. He tilted his head slightly, gazing at the inscriptions carved on the ancestral tablets, his eyes glacial and a mocking smile curving his lips.


    His voice was measured yet radiated oppressive authority:


    "The Ancestral Precepts dictate: Lin Family disciples shall be of one heart and branch, supporting each other, honoring elders and cherishing the young, forbidden from bullying kin."


    He turned his head, lightly sweeping his gaze across the assembly in the ancestral hall. His smile remained, yet his tone abruptly iced over.


    "Pity-the Lin Family''s ''filial and virtuous descendants'' have done a fine job."


    "The family allocates resources, favoring disciples with outstanding talent; this is the rule."


    "But when allocating resources, have you ever considered that some are deprived of even the most basic cultivation pills, even mocked and ridiculed as ''useless waste''?"


    "Some, relying on their higher cultivation level, forcibly seize cultivation resources from their own kin, then bite back and accuse, claiming it as'' family regulations''?"


    "And even more-"


    Lin Rui paused, his gaze sinking slightly, his tone measured, like a cold blade piercing bone:


    "Some even dare to condone these degenerates'' evil deeds, causing damage to the Lin Family''s reputation. If word gets out, it would be a complete loss of face for the entire clan."


    Boom-


    Silence descended, absolute and profound!


    Some elders'' faces turned ashen within the ancestral hall, while several disciples'' complexions went livid, beads of cold sweat dotting their foreheads.


    The incense candles in the hall burned vigorously, a faint sandalwood fragrance permeating the air.


    Lin Rui stood at the center, hands clasped behind his back, gaze sweeping around, indolent yet sharp, as if surveying a troupe of clowns in utter disgrace.


    "I''ve barely crawled out of my coffin, and yet I sense some in this family are even more thoroughly dead than I am?"


    His gaze drifted across the crowd, settling upon Lin Jingshan. Slowly, a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, his tone laced with an indescribable depth of meaning.


    "Lin Jingshan, you''ve got quite the nerve."


    Lin Jingshan''s body stiffened.


    As the grandson of the Third Elder and a core family member, he was usually pampered and privileged. His cultivation was decent enough, and even when facing some elders, he could brazenly lift his chin, relying on his grandfather''s influence.


    But at this moment, when Lin Rui''s eyes swept over, a prickle of... fear inexplicably crawled up his spine.


    -No, why should he fear a "useless waste who''d died once already"?


    Lin Jingshan suppressed the unease in his heart, forcing a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "Lin Rui, what do you mean by this? This young master has never provoked you."


    "Never provoked me?"


    Lin Rui chuckled, a low, measured sound, yet his eyes were as cold as blades.


    "Last year, when the family distributed Essence-Solidifying Pills, wasn''t my share ''borrowed'' by you?"


    "What did you say back then...? ''Anyway, you can''t cultivate, eating them is a waste. Might as well let me take them for someone with more talent''?"


    Deathly silence descended upon the ancestral hall.


    Some family disciples exchanged shocked glances in secret.


    Stolen story; please report.


    -They''d heard of this incident but assumed Lin Jingshan was just saying it casually back then. Who knew it was actually true?


    Lin Jingshan''s face froze. A flicker of panic lashed in his eyes, but he quickly mustered a stubborn denial. "I was conserving resources for the family! What use are they to you when you can''t cultivate?"


    "Oh?" Lin Rui raised an eyebrow. "So, family resources are allocated based on talent? Then how much higher is your talent compared to mine?"


    Lin Jingshan sneered. "This young master has already achieved Meridian Awakening (3rd Level). You haven''t even touched the first level. What makes you think you can compare to me?"


    "Meridian Awakening? You dare boast about such paltry level before the Ancestors?"


    Lin Rui suddenly smiled.


    But his smile was exceedingly faint, even carrying a hint of chill.


    The next second, his tone abruptly sank, his gaze turning icy-cold and stern£º


    "Lin Jingshan, you''ve consumed so many pills that don''t belong to you, yet your cultivation speed is slower than a dog''s crawl. Even a Lin Family watchdog cultivates faster than you."


    "If the Ancestors could know in the afterlife, seeing trash like you flaunting your power here, their grave mound would probably explode with rage."


    Utter silence reigned!


    Some family disciples nearly burst out laughing on the spot but dared not to, suppressing their mirth until their faces flushed crimson.


    -Lin Rui... those words were brutal!


    Lin Jingshan''s face swelled crimson, teeth gritted as he roared, "Lin Rui, you-!"


    "I what?"


    Lin Rui narrowed his eyes, his voice laced with playful mockery. "You want to make a move?"


    He slowly raised a hand, extending a single finger, gently hooking it towards Lin Jingshan in a beckoning gesture.


    "Then bring it on?"


    Lin Jingshan was utterly provoked, his chest heaving violently, barely restraining himself from lunging forward.


    But before he could move, Lin Tianhong, the eldest son of the Family Head and also Lin Rui''s uncle, slammed his hand heavily on the table, his voice imbued with formidable authority:


    "Enough!"


    Lin Tianhong''s gaze swept over Lin Jingshan, his eyes as cold and sharp as daggers.


    "The family rules explicitly forbid bullying kin. I originally thought the matter of you seizing pills was a misunderstanding. Never imagined it was actually true?"


    "Lin Jingshan, do you acknowledge your transgression!"


    "I... I..."


    Cold sweat poured from Lin Jingshan''s forehead. Never had he imagined that something he''d assumed he could brush off with a casual remark would now be exposed by Lin Rui before everyone!


    Even more terrifying was the aura Lin Rui exuded today, so oppressive couldn''t even utter a word in retort!


    Lin Rui raised a hand, gently patting the coffin lid, his gaze drifting languidly.


    "Lucky for you, it''s the Ancestor''s manifestation this time, personally sending me back to settle accounts with you."


    "Otherwise, this corpse of mine would have to haunt you from under your bed."


    "...!!!"


    Lin Jingshan''s face turned deathly white, his lips trembling. He stumbled back three steps, nearly falling to the ground!


    Silence reigned in the ancestral hall.


    Gazing at Lin Jingshan''s pathetic, weak-kneed state, a strange sense of pity inexplicably arose in the hearts of many present.


    Yet, simultaneously, they were secretly shocked-


    Was this the same "bully the weak and fear the strong, useless Lin Rui" from before?


    Having returned from death once, he''d become so assertive and sharp, leaving no room for maneuvering!


    The atmosphere within the ancestral hall was now oppressively heavy. Others with guilty consciences began to lower their heads nervously, fearing they too might be targeted by Lin Rui''s "ancestral manifestation."


    However, Lin Rui certainly wouldn''t deal with only one person.


    He slowly surveyed the crowd, his gaze eventually settling upon a gaunt, wiry, middle-aged woman with a somber expression.


    She subtly retreated a step, a flicker of vigilance surfacing in her eyes.


    -Lin Qingzhu, the Lin Family''s Internal Affairs Steward, allocates cultivation resources to low-ranking disciples.


    This woman''s methods were always clever and adaptable. On the surface, she appeared utterly devoted. Yet, relying on the power in her grasp, she secretly embezzled cultivation resources, pocketing low-ranking disciples'' spirit stones and pills for herself.


    Lin Rui''s meager share of cultivation resources had long been intercepted and cut off by her through various pretexts, diverted to those so-called "family geniuses."


    The former Lin Rui-silent, weak, powerless-could only allow her exploitation, lacking even the courage to question her.


    But now?


    Lin Rui''s lips curled into a faint smirk, a chilling smile surfacing in the depths of his eyes.


    "Steward Lin, the Ancestor, has been muttering for quite a while down there."


    Lin Qingzhu''s heart jolted. She forced a stiff smile. "...Oh? May I ask what instructions the esteemed Ancestor has?"


    Lin Rui "sighed," his tone leisurely, as if reciting ancestral decrees:


    "He says, in recent years, the flow of family resources seems to have some ''issues.''"


    The air in the ancestral hall seemed to solidify instantly.


    Lin Qingzhu''s face turned livid in a heartbeat, her fingers subtly curling, clenching her sleeve tightly.


    She knew that if her vile methods were indeed exposed, it would be enough to send her out of the Lin Family for good!


    Forcing down her pounding heart, she spoke steadily, "Lin Rui, don''t you dare slander people! Family resources have always been allocated according to the rules."


    Lin Rui looked at her, slowly blinking, his tone nonchalant,


    "Oh? Then explain to the Ancestors why I didn''t even see the dregs of my QI-condensing pills."


    "Why the spirit stones I was entitled to, the ledger clearly records as ''disbursed,'' yet not a single piece ever touched my hand?"


    "Even funnier, the ''monthly pills'' I received these past two years, even their vintage was wrong?"


    Lin Qingzhu''s face froze, her body stiffening, cold sweat beading on her forehead!


    -Damn it, he''s investigated all this?!


    -No, he died once; how could he possibly know?


    -Could it be that the Ancestors really did manifest?!


    Whispers rippled through the surrounding family disciples. Some, who had also had their resources deducted in the past, their gazes turned angry and shocked.


    Some even revealed subtle hints of excitement on their faces-


    -Finally, someone''s going to drag this bitch down!


    Lin Rui slowly stepped forward, gently patting the coffin lid, his voice carrying a hint of a smile, yet barely audible,


    "Steward Lin, do you think... the Ancestors are already dead, so no one would dare investigate these accounts?"


    "Do you really believe, relying on family authority, you could ''smuggle goods across the border'' right here in the ancestral hall, and no one would discover it?"


    Lin Qingzhu''s lips trembled, feeling cold sweat soaking through her shirt, yet she still stubbornly clung to her last composure. "...Lin Rui, you''re just a low-cultivation family member. How could family resources possibly open a backdoor specifically for you?"


    "Oh, you speak quite eloquently. Well, I am of direct descent lineage of the family, at least!"


    Lin Rui suddenly laughed, his eyes chillingly cold.


    "If we go by your logic, you dare to deduct even my resources. Then those branch family disciples with even lower cultivation than me, are you directly stamping out their path of cultivation?"


    "The resources you embezzled, what did they amount to? Did the family''s geniuses become stronger? I see; you''re the only one who''s gotten fatter!"


    Silence descended across the entire hall.


    Many disciples'' faces flushed crimson instantly, suppressed anger surging in their eyes!


    "That''s right! My monthly spirit stones haven''t been issued for three months!"


    "My Qi-Nourishing Pills were approved by the family, but when they were issued, they were half the amount of others''!"


    "My Violet Dawn Pills, never even saw a shadow of them!"


    "Me too-I have a problem-!!"


    In an instant, chaos erupted in the ancestral hall!


    Lin Qingzhu''s complexion utterly shifted!


    She looked around in terror, discovering that the complexions of a crowd of disciples, stewards, and several elders had turned sour!


    -Although her embezzlement methods these years had been secretive, if indeed deeply investigated, they could unearth a mountain of problems!


    She abruptly turned her head, looking towards the elders'' seats, seeking help. "...Esteemed Elders, this..."


    Lin Tianhong''s face was already gloomy as water!


    He slowly closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, his gaze was as sharp as a blade.


    "Lin Qingzhu, do you acknowledge your guilt?"


    "...!"


    Lin Qingzhu''s lips quivered, cold sweat pouring down her face. Her legs went weak, and she collapsed directly to her knees!


    "Elders! I... I''m accused! I absolutely did not embezzle resources! All of this is..."


    Lin Rui chuckled leisurely, walking closer to her. Looking down at her from a commanding height, his tone was light and light yet sent chills down one''s spine.


    "Weren''t you just saying ''family resources are allocated according to the rules''?"


    "Why have you become accused now that the matter''s been exposed?"


    "Fine then, why don''t you explain it to the Ancestors and see if the old man believes you?"


    The incense candles in the ancestral hall abruptly ignited without wind, a burst of flame surging high!


    Lin Qingzhu thumped heavily to the ground, collapsing onto all fours, her entire body trembling. She was utterly broken!


    The Grand Elder said coldly, "From this day forth, remove Lin Qingzhu from her position as Steward, punish her with 100,000 spirit stones, banish her from the Family Council Hall, and forbid her from contacting any family resources for five years!"


    Lin Qingzhu went completely limp, her eyes vacant, utterly dumbfounded!


    Lin Rui... merely cast a leisurely glance at her, a calm, detached smile on his lips.


    -Much injustice brings self-destruction; ultimately, those who do much evil dig their graves.


    The atmosphere in the ancestral hall had shifted entirely.


    Lin Jingshan had just been scolded into a cold sweat, and Lin Qingzhu had been directly dismissed from her position. The disciples were seething with righteous indignation. For a time, the air pressure in the entire ancestral hall dropped several degrees.


    Yet, this "ancestral admonishment" was not over. Lin Rui would continue. He wanted to feel satisfied and reclaim some justice for the original Lin Rui!

 Chapter 4: The Ancestors admonishments

    Lin Rui turned around, his gaze slowly fixed upon another person-Lin Yuanhu.


    This guy was burly, with bulging muscles, cultivating the ¡¶Golden Wood Overlord Body Incantation¡· daily. Among the family''s younger generation, he was considered to have one of the strongest physiques.


    But his reputation... wasn''t exactly stellar.


    Relying on his innate brute strength, he specialized in bullying those weaker than himself, especially Lin Rui, who had practically become his living punching bag!


    Two years ago, he''d even publicly smashed the spirit Qi array that Lin Rui used for cultivation. His father had exchanged this array for many contribution points for him. As a result of the array''s destruction, he''d been completely cut off from the path of cultivation, becoming the Lin Family''s publicly acknowledged "waste"!


    At this moment, Lin Yuanhu had been standing ramrod straight, but when Lin Rui''s gaze landed on him, he subconsciously frowned, his body tensing slightly.


    -Why did he feel a sense of unease?


    "The Ancestor dreamt of a rabid dog..."


    Lin Rui suddenly chuckled.


    The smile was indolent, the tone languid, yet the entire ancestral hall inexplicably felt a chill.


    "Lin Yuanhu, have you been sleeping soundly lately?"


    Lin Yuanhu frowned, his voice rough and throaty. "What do you mean?"


    "Nothing much, it''s just that the Ancestor just told me something very strange."


    Lin Rui tilted his head slightly, his tone carrying a sardonic smile.


    "He said he recently dreamed of a rabid dog in the family, biting people indiscriminately every day, causing unrest within the household."


    "This dog is also surnamed Lin."


    Boom-!


    The entire ancestral hall instantly erupted!


    Many disciples couldn''t help but lower their heads, suppressing laughter, their shoulders subtly shaking, yet daring not to burst out loud, fearing a beating from Lin Yuanhu!


    Rabid dog?!


    Lin Yuanhu... wasn''t he the "rabid dog" universally acknowledged within the family as the most fond of bullying others?!


    Lin Yuanhu''s face instantly turned gloomy and dark, veins bulging on his forehead, as he roared, "Lin Rui, don''t you get too carried away!"


    "Carried away?"


    Lin Rui scoffed, slowly strolling closer to him, enunciating each word with deliberate emphasis.


    "Back then, when you smashed my spirit Qi array, ruining my path of cultivation, why didn''t you think you were being ''carried away''?"


    "Relying on your cultivation of the ¡¶Golden Wood Overlord Body Incantation¡·, acting tyrannical and domineering within the family, bullying lower-cultivation kin at every turn, why didn''t you think you were being ''carried away''?"


    "Oh, or are you saying you''re allowed to be carried away, but others aren''t allowed to speak the truth?"


    The entire hall fell silent for two seconds, then-


    "Pfft-hahahaha!"


    Finally, someone couldn''t contain their laughter and burst out!


    Lin Yuanhu''s face instantly darkened to the color of the bottom of a wok, his fists cracking and popping as he bellowed, "Lin Rui! Say that again?!"


    Lin Rui smiled faintly, his voice languid, yet each word piercing and cutting to the bone.


    "Since your ears aren''t working well, I''ll speak slower."


    "-The Ancestor said there''s a rabid dog in the family."


    "-And this dog, surnamed Lin."


    "-Lin... Yuan... Hu."


    A wave of stifled chuckles, barely contained laughter, erupted within the ancestral hall!


    Even the corners of several elders'' mouths twitched almost imperceptibly. They hadn''t expected Lin Rui to possess such a venomous tongue!


    Lin Yuanhu finally snapped!


    He stormed forward, rage blazing. The Golden Wood Overlord Body Incantation instantly activated, his aura explosively surging. His fists clenched as if poised to strike in the next breath!


    "Lin Rui, you motherfucker, you''re courting death-!"


    But-


    Lin Rui suddenly shifted his stance, subtly evading his oppressive aura. His voice drifted down, light as a feather.


    "Lin Yuanhu, are you certain you want to throw down?"


    "Here, in the Ancestors'' ancestral hall?"


    Boom-!


    Lin Yuanhu froze abruptly, his fist halting inches away, cold sweat instantly beading on his forehead!


    It finally dawned on him... if he actually threw a punch in the ancestral hall, it would be utterly rebellious and wicked!


    Even if the elders didn''t punish him, word would spread, and his reputation would be ruined beyond redemption!


    "You-!" Lin Yuanhu trembled with fury, his face flushing crimson. He suffocated with resentment to the point of explosion!


    Never in his life had he been so publicly humiliated!


    Yet, infuriatingly, he indeed didn''t dare to retaliate!


    Seeing this, Lin Rui scoffed softly, hands clasped behind his back, letting out a languid sigh.


    "Sigh, just as I said, a rabid dog barks fiercely, but that doesn''t mean it actually dares to bite."


    "Turns out, still just a toothless mutt."


    "Such a waste of all that bulk."


    Lin Yuanhu: "......!!!"


    Boom! His rage ignited to its zenith!


    But he dared not move, could only clench his fists until his knuckles cracked, teeth grinding audibly, muscles spasming violently all over, suffocating with resentment until his face was scarlet!


    Just like a rabid dog on a leash, clearly consumed by incandescent fury, yet forced to watch helplessly as its prey openly mocked it!


    -Furious!


    -Truly about to explode with rage!!


    But... he really didn''t dare to strike back!


    The air within the ancestral hall had solidified completely.


    Lin Jingshan had been verbally humiliated, and Lin Qingzhu was stripped of her position and utterly disgraced. Lin Yuanhu, even more, had become a laughingstock, branded as the "Lin Family''s rabid dog," wishing he could dig a hole and bury himself on the spot.


    Everyone assumed Lin Rui''s inquisition should finally be drawing to a close, yet Lin Rui''s gaze hadn''t halted.


    He slowly lifted his eyes, his gaze now settling upon-Lin Qiuming.


    Lin Qiuming, the Fourth Elder of the Lin Family, usually styled himself as just and impartial," constantly proclaiming himself to be in charge of the Lin Family laws, upholding ancestral precepts, and incorruptible.


    But Lin Rui knew that this old fox was utterly two-faced!


    -In public, he constantly preached about rules, yet in reality, he especially favored the Lin Family''s genius disciples, secretly shielding their misdeeds.


    --Lin Jingshan, Lin Yuanhu, and others who bullied the weak blatantly acted with impunity right under his nose, yet he had never once intervened.


    --Conversely, "wastes" like Lin Rui, with low cultivation and no backing, were punished most severely for even minor infractions. Even during the half-year absence of his father, Lin Yuntian, he had never offered a helping hand.


    Yet, this very man habitually positioned himself on the moral high ground, lecturing others, assuming an air of lofty purity-utter hypocrisy!


    Lin Rui slowly retracted his gaze, a faint, almost imperceptible sneer playing on his lips, and spoke in a measured tone.


    "Fourth Elder, is the skin on your face... perhaps a bit thicker than others''?"


    Lin Qiuming''s brows furrowed, his face darkening.


    "Lin Rui, what do you mean by that?"


    "What I mean is, your old face is remarkably thick-skinned."


    Lin Rui strolled leisurely, circling Lin Qiuming slowly. His tone was nonchalant yet laced with a bone-deep chill.


    "What is it you usually like to say?"


    "'' Family rules are inviolable, Lin Family law unbreakable. If anyone bullies their kin, family law will surely deliver retribution''?"


    "Heh..."


    He chuckled softly, his tone dripping with heavy sarcasm.


    "How laughable. I''ve yet to see you punish Lin Jingshan? Or Lin Yuanhu?"


    Lin Qiuming''s expression flickered, his tone sinking. "They have committed no egregious errors. Why should I punish them?"


    Lin Rui blinked slowly, speaking softly, "Is that so?"


    He suddenly turned his head, addressing the surrounding family disciples in a slow, deliberate manner. "Fellow clansmen, do you believe they have committed ''no egregious errors''?"


    The hall fell silent.


    Many disciples furtively glanced at Lin Qiuming, then at Lin Jingshan and Lin Yuanhu kneeling on the ground, drenched in cold sweat. Finally, someone couldn''t help but mutter quietly,


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    "But... Lin Jingshan did seize pills..."


    "Lin Yuanhu smashed a fellow clansman''s cultivation array... does that count as ''no egregious errors''?"


    "We always felt it was unfair, but... the Fourth Elder has never intervened..."


    Like a gentle breeze rippling across a lake''s surface, these hushed murmurings spread outward in ever-widening circles.


    Among the surrounding family disciples, many complexions began to shift subtly.


    They had long been dissatisfied with Lin Qiuming''s "double standards," but constrained by his Elder status, they had never dared to voice it aloud.


    But now, Lin Rui had directly ripped away this fig leaf in the Ancestors'' ancestral hall. The discontent hidden in the shadows finally began to fester and erupt!


    Lin Qiuming''s face grew increasingly gloomy. He took a deep breath and said in a deep voice: "Lin Rui, do not spout slander today!"


    "I am an Elder of the Lin Family, following ancestral precepts in all my affairs. When have I ever been biased?"


    "If you have no proof, then cease this reckless accusation!"


    "Proof?"


    Lin Rui chuckled lightly, slowly walking to the Ancestral Tablets, raising a hand to gently tap the wooden tablet inscribed with ancestral precepts.


    "Ancestors above, seniority respected, laws strictly enforced... Fourth Elder, tell me again, which of these precepts have you upheld?"


    He suddenly retracted his hand, slowly turning around, facing Lin Qiuming directly, his tone cold and:


    "Is it family rules you uphold or personal connections?"


    "Is it family justice you safeguard or those ''geniuses'' you favor?"


    Lin Qiuming''s face drastically contorted. He slammed a hand heavily on the table, roaring in rage, "Outrageous! You junior, are you questioning an elder?!"


    "Oh?"


    Lin Rui arched an eyebrow, his tone languid, yet his gaze terrifyingly cold.


    "Just now, you said it-family law is unbreakable."


    "Could it be that Lin Family law also contains a clause-''Elders can act lawlessly''?"


    Boom-!


    The entire ancestral hall instantly exploded!


    Everyone''s hearts jolted violently!


    Lin Rui... he actually dared to directly challenge an Elder''s authority right in front of everyone?!


    But, what was even more terrifying-Lin Qiuming was utterly unable to refute it!


    Lin Qiuming''s face flushed crimson, incandescent with rage. "You-!"


    "I what?"


    Lin Rui tilted his head slightly, eyes sharp as razors, a smile of utmost mockery playing on his lips.


    "Are you going to say I''m a junior and shouldn''t question an elder?"


    "Then tell me-how have you been turning a deaf ear and a blind eye all these years?"


    "Have you ever intervened on behalf of those bullied kinsmen?"


    "Have you ever punished those ''geniuses'' who relied on their power to oppress others?"


    "Have you ever stood on the side of the truly weak instead of only favoring the strong?"


    A series of "Have you ever," each word piercing to the heart, thundered like rolling thunder within the ancestral hall!


    Lin Qiuming''s breathing grew rapid, his face ghastly. He was utterly unable to retort!


    Even more terrifying was that the gazes of the surrounding family disciples, directed at Lin Qiuming, had completely changed!


    If, before, they held the Fourth Elder in awe, then now... it had already morphed into doubt!


    For one in the venerable position of Elder, what was most crucial?


    -Prestige!


    But today, Lin Qiuming''s prestige had been torn to shreds by Lin Rui!


    "You..." Lin Qiuming trembled with rage, fingers clenching the armrests until they were white, seemingly wanting to explode in a fury, yet utterly incapable of erupting!


    Lin Rui, however, merely smiled faintly, his tone nonchalant.


    "Fourth Elder, I suggest you enter closed-door seclusion for three months, calm yourself down, and ponder the true meaning of family law."


    "What do you think?"


    Boom-!


    Lin Tianhong stated in a deep voice, "Lin Qiuming, from this day forth, enter closed-door seclusion for three months, strictly adhere to ancestral precepts, and reflect upon your transgressions!"


    Lin Qiuming''s eyes widened, face ashen, lips quivering. Finally, he flung his sleeves back heavily, retreating in utter humiliation!


    Lin Rui merely watched him depart, leisurely curving his lips, murmuring faintly-


    "Wearing a pretense for too long will inevitably be exposed."


    An Elder stripped bare on the spot, utterly losing face, authority collapsing! Lin Rui had once again crushed the entire hall!


    -Was that wave of face-slapping satisfying enough?


    Within the ancestral hall, the atmosphere had plummeted to freezing point.


    Now, Lin Jingshan had been exposed for pill-snatching, Lin Qingzhu had been expelled from the Family Council Hall for embezzling cultivation resources, Lin Yuanhu had been branded a "rabid dog" yet dared not retaliate, and Lin Qiuming had been publicly exposed, losing Elder prestige, and sentenced to three months of closed-door seclusion.


    Everyone was deeply shaken, gazing at Lin Rui beside the coffin, inexplicably developing a sliver of awe! Some began to anticipate who Lin Rui would target next.


    But Lin Rui''s gaze did not cease there. One more, the last one.


    He slowly lifted his eyes, finally looking towards-Lin Yuheng.


    "Who do you look down upon?"


    Lin Yuheng, the personal disciple of the Family''s Third Elder, whose cultivation had reached Meridian Unimpeded (4th Level), could stand out among the younger generation.


    He usually conducted himself with propriety, never openly bullying kinsmen. But deep in his heart, he profoundly despised the weak, especially "wastes" like Lin Rui!


    -In the past, when Lin Rui was bullied, he wouldn''t actively drop stones down a well on someone who had fallen into it, but he would never offer a helping hand.


    -In the past, when Lin Rui''s pills were deducted, he would only watch with cold detachment, believing "resources should naturally be given to the stronger."


    -In the past, after Lin Rui''s father, Lin Yuntian, went missing, he had even coldly advised, "Your father''s mission may have failed. You should consider your path forward."


    On the surface, he was upright, fair, and impartial, but he had never stood on the side of true fairness!


    He was the most typical believer in "survival of the fittest" within the family.


    Lin Rui''s lips curved slightly upwards, eyes like blades, his tone exceedingly slow as he spoke,


    "Lin Yuheng, have you always believed I deserved to be a waste?"


    Lin Yuheng frowned and said in a deep voice, "I have never said such a thing."


    "Oh?" Lin Rui smiled, "Although you haven''t said it, in your heart, that''s what you''ve always thought, hasn''t it?"


    Lin Yuheng''s gaze faltered imperceptibly.


    The surrounding disciples subconsciously held their breath, everyone clearly aware that Lin Rui''s words had struck Lin Yuheng''s most vulnerable point!


    He had always styled himself as just and impartial, holding in utter contempt those spoiled brats who bullied their kin. Yet, equally, he had never offered a hand to those bullied.


    In his value system, the weak were simply undeserving of salvation.


    But today, Lin Rui was no longer a "weakling"!


    Lin Rui narrowed his eyes slightly, slowly stepping forward, his gaze turning icy.


    "Since you believe ''wastes'' aren''t worthy of pity, tell me-what are you afraid of now?"


    Lin Yuheng''s expression finally fractured!


    -He was, indeed, afraid!


    This Lin Rui, who''d crawled out of his coffin, possessed an aura that was too overpowering. Every word he spoke seemed capable of peeling back a person''s pretenses, ruthlessly piercing the most hidden vulnerabilities deep within their heart!


    Lin Yuheng''s fingers subtly curled. He took a deep breath and said in a deep voice, "Lin Rui, what exactly are you trying to say?"


    "What I''m trying to say is, the ''Ancestor'' instructed me to tell you something-"


    Lin Rui''s tone was soft and measured, yet his eyes glinted with chilling intent.


    "A true powerhouse isn''t someone who looks down on the weak, but someone capable of sheltering the weak."


    "You claim to be fair, but have you ever spoken out for the weak?"


    "You claim to be upright, but knowing full well the injustices within the family, have you ever stepped forward?"


    "You claim to be just, but you only watched with cold detachment, waiting for the so-called ''geniuses'' to reach the summit, while those clansmen struggling for survival, you never extended a hand."


    "Someone like you, how dare you speak of ''uprightness''?"


    Boom-!


    Lin Yuheng''s face instantly turned ashen!


    The surrounding disciples'' eyes widened. Even some who had always respected Lin Yuheng now revealed a hint of disappointment in their gazes.


    Because they realized Lin Rui''s words-were true!


    -They had once admired Lin Yuheng, believing him to be the most impartial among the family''s younger generation. But now, they finally saw...


    Lin Yuheng had never indeed been fair!


    He was merely maintaining the "fairness" he conceived of from the perspective of the strong!


    Lin Yuheng took a deep breath, his face pale, yet stubbornly maintaining his composure; he said in a low voice, "Lin Rui... I admit you are different from before, but my actions are guiltless."


    "Oh?" Lin Rui smiled. "Then you just keep standing there, playing your righteous gentleman."


    "But I''m telling you, from today onwards, your ''survival of the fittest'' philosophy is useless before me."


    "You will no longer be the sole ''role model'' in the family-because, starting today, the one chosen by the ''Ancestor'' is me."


    Boom-!!!


    The entire hall was shaken to the core!


    Lin Rui-he was actually challenging Lin Yuheng''s position as the family role model?!


    Lin Yuheng abruptly lifted his head, pupils constricting, his face drastically shifting!


    For the first time, he felt the oppressive force of Lin Rui''s presence!


    And the gazes of the surrounding family disciples had already transformed.


    -Indeed, they used to only see Lin Yuheng as a role model, but now, Lin Rui standing there was even more dazzling!


    -He dared to fight for himself, seek justice for his kinsmen, and challenge all injustice!


    -Such a person was the one genuinely worth following!


    Lin Rui looked at Lin Yuheng, a faint smile playing on his lips, and said lightly:


    "Are you still that ''upright and impartial and just'' role model?"


    Lin Yuheng''s lips trembled imperceptibly, utterly speechless!


    The atmosphere within the hall had spiraled entirely out of control.


    Lin Rui overturned the once-solemn order of the ancestral hall from top to bottom.


    -Lin Jingshan had been stripped bare, and his evil deeds of bullying kinsmen were exposed.


    -Lin Qingzhu had been dismissed, and the dark curtain over family resources was ripped open.


    -Lin Yuanhu had been publicly ridiculed as a "rabid dog" lacking the courage to retaliate.


    -Lin Qiuming''s "fair" persona had with a crash collapsed, his prestige utterly obliterated.


    Even Lin Yuheng was directly dragged down from his position as the family "role model" by Lin Rui, and all his halos and moral high ground were shattered one by one!


    The surrounding family disciples had already begun to waver.


    The resentment that had been pent up in their hearts for so long had finally been torn open layer by Lin Rui. At this moment, all the past instances of oppression and injustice were receiving the most thorough catharsis!


    However, if this trend continued, it wouldn''t be as simple as "rectifying family discipline"; it would push the Lin Family''s internal strife directly to its zenith!


    Lin Tianhong finally recognized the danger!


    -Even the higher-ups would likely face complete questioning and challenge if they didn''t intervene!


    Lin Tiande''s expression also turned grave. He exchanged a glance with Lin Tianhong. Finally, Lin Tianhong slammed his hand on the table, his voice sinking.


    "Enough!"


    Boom-!


    His voice reverberated like thunder, instantly silencing the entire hall.


    Lin Rui blinked, the corners of his lips curving upwards slightly, his gaze languidly sweeping towards Lin Tianhong.


    -Finally, they can''t sit still any longer?


    "Lin Rui, you have wantonly censured family members in the ancestral hall today. Whether for punishment or rectifying family discipline, it''s fine. But... on what basis do you claim that the Ancestors have truly manifested?"


    Lin Tianhong''s tone was measured, his gaze piercingly fixed on Lin Rui, carrying deep skepticism.


    "You are but an ordinary disciple. On what grounds can you hear the Ancestors'' voice while we, Elders of far greater seniority, cannot?"


    Lin Tiande also stepped forward and stated in a deep voice:


    "Lin Rui, we are not doubting you per se, but we require an explanation."


    "If the Ancestors have truly manifested, why not directly bestow a divine decree and convince everyone beyond question?"


    Their words sent a subtle tremor through the crowd. The family disciples, whose capacity for thought had been overwhelmed by Lin Rui''sshock and awe, instantly regained composure.


    Indeed... if the Ancestors had manifested, why would they only communicate with Lin Rui alone?


    Lin Rui narrowed his eyes slightly.


    -They had finally caught onto this loophole.


    Too late, unfortunately.


    "The Ancestors... they don''t take kindly to being questioned."


    Lin Rui showed no panic or alarm. Instead, he slowly and deliberately raised his hand, extending it toward his forehead and gently tapping it.


    -He was, in his mind, conversing with another "self."


    "How''s it feel? Satisfied yet?"


    That familiar voice echoed in his mind, tinged with a hint of a smile. "...Immensely."


    "Are you happy?" Lin Rui asked softly.


    After a moment of silence, the young man''s slightly husky voice carried a faint tremor.


    "...This is the happiest moment I''ve had in a year."


    "...No."


    "This is the happiest I''ve been since that last time, years ago when I went to Drunken Immortal Tavern with Father."


    Lin Rui''s throat hitched imperceptibly.


    He never felt so vividly that the young man before him and himself were already one entity.


    They were distinct souls yet the same "Lin Rui."


    "Lin Rui, I''ll give you another push."


    The next second-!


    "Boom-!"


    The entire ancestral hall, the candlelight abruptly surged, a gale howling!


    The ancestral tablets swayed wildly like some invisible, colossal power was descending!


    "Th-this is..."


    Everyone''s eyes widened in shock, watching in disbelief as the ancestral tablets began to glow!


    A mystical rune of light abruptly surfaced from within the ancestral tablet!


    Lin Tianhong''s expression drastically changed!


    Lin Tiande staggered backward, a look of stark terror seizing his eyes!


    "The Ancestors... have manifested?!"


    "How could it be?! These are clearly just ordinary ancestral tablets!"


    Yet, inexplicably, the tablets behind them began to sway with unmistakable motion as if some presence had truly awakened!


    Even more, some of the elders felt as though they heard a low sigh in their ears, as if a Lin Family Ancestor were looking upon them with sorrowful pity!


    "The family''s honor..."


    "Has fallen so low..."


    In an instant, the temperature of the entire ancestral hall seemed to plummet to freezing.


    Lin Tianhong and Lin Tiande''s faces had turned utterly white!


    --It''s over, they really have manifested?!


    All the family disciples in the hall had erupted entirely into chaos!


    "I just... heard the Ancestor''s voice!"


    "The ancestral tablets are glowing! I saw it! It''s real!"


    "The Ancestors really have manifested?! Everything Lin Rui said is true?!"


    The entire ancestral hall was instantly plunged into terror and awe!


    Lin Rui, however, slowly closed his eyes. In his mind, the voice of the young Lin Rui was gradually weakening.


    "...That way, they won''t doubt you anymore."


    "Lin Rui, thank you."


    Lin Rui slightly opened his eyes and said softly, "...It is I who should thank you."


    "Then... live well."


    "Carry my name-no, our name-live even better."


    The voice gradually faded into the distance. Lin Rui suddenly felt a part of his mind beginning to feel empty.


    --That soul that had always been there had finally departed.


    He had let go of the past and gone to a better place.


    Lin Rui opened his eyes and slowly looked ahead-


    At this moment, the entire high echelon of the ancestral hall, including Lin Tianhong and Lin Tiande, everyone''s faces were filled with shock and reverence.


    Their skepticism had vanished completely.


    Lin Rui lowered his eyelashes and said softly, "The Ancestors'' admonishments, you all heard them, didn''t you?"


    Boom-!


    No one dared to doubt any longer.


    No one dared to belittle him any longer.


    At this moment, Lin Rui truly stood at the heart of the family!

 Chapter 5: Entering the Inner Hall, Planning the Future

    Lin Rui stood in the center of the room, his gaze sweeping across the surroundings, a sense of ease and pleasure blossoming in his chest. Since the ancestral spirit manifestation incident, the Lin family elders have ordered a complete renovation of his room and courtyard. This gesture wasn''t just a display of the family''s authority and care; it also imbued his status with a confident expectation.


    The room''s d¨¦cor, a stark contrast to its previous simplicity, now pulsed with the Lin family''s traditions and culture. A wooden screen carved with exquisite auspicious clouds and serpent patterns radiated vibrant energy as if the carvings possessed spiritual power. The incense burner, crafted from superior spiritwood, released not ordinary smoke but faint, luminous spiritual energy that purified the air of impurities.


    Outside the window, the Lin family courtyard had been meticulously landscaped. The once-desolate bamboo grove was now neatly trimmed, its leaves rustling in the breeze with a refreshing, moist air. The pond water was crystal clear, with several koi carp swimming leisurely. Spirit herbs along the pond''s edge shimmered in the sunlight, their tiny blossoms like miniature stars scattered across the water''s surface.


    Lin Rui walked over to the mirror, gazing at his reflection. The mirror revealed a young, perhaps eighteen-year-old man with healthy, tanned skin and clear, bright eyes that sparkled with a unique vitality. His face was still youthful, but a vibrant energy replaced the weariness and listlessness that had once been there. His hair, slightly tousled, was jet black and lustrous, perfectly complementing his thick, sword-like eyebrows, exuding an undeniable heroic air.


    "This is such a huge difference from my old self! But then again, jumping from one strange world to another... it''s really... bizarre." He murmured to himself, a subtle smile playing on his lips yet tinged with profound confusion and resignation.


    Then, Lin Rui pushed the window open, welcoming the cool morning breeze that swept away the lingering fatigue and worries. His mood lightened, becoming cheerful and carefree. He couldn''t help but chuckle softly, the feeling of ease and pleasure growing more decisive in his heart.


    "While all this feels strange, maybe it''s a new beginning." Lin Rui whispered to himself, a glint of profound insight flickering in his eyes.


    He took a deep breath and returned to his desk, his gaze settling on the stack of documents piled on the surface. These seemingly ordinary family files were closely tied to the Lin family''s development over the next few years, their internal operations, and the allocation of resources ¨C crucial matters all. Every decision involved the family''s future, and the content revealed between the lines of the text caused Lin Rui to furrow his brow slightly. Even though Lin Rui''s current status wasn''t particularly prominent, the weight of these documents still made him feel a heavy sense of responsibility.


    "From now on, I''ve decided I can''t just be an observer anymore." Lin Rui murmured inwardly, his fingers lightly tracing the paper''s surface. His cultivation hadn''t yet broken through the first level, still far from the role the family expected of him. But he knew deeply that the family''s fate and his growth were now inextricably linked. These documents were undoubtedly a test from within the family ¨C not of trust, but of surveillance. After all, the family harbored doubts about him, especially given the changes since his rebirth, making them even more cautious.


    "Perhaps, I''m just a pawn myself." Lin Rui pursed his lips, a flicker of coldness in his eyes.


    These documents were not a complete disclosure but selectively provided. The "core secrets" the Lin family had given him were intended to let him perceive the subtle nuances of the family''s power struggles or to use this information to enhance his capabilities, preparing him for potential shifts in the situation. At the same time, these documents also had an implicit message: if Lin Rui could demonstrate his value through these materials, perhaps the family would offer more support. Conversely, if he failed to fulfill these tasks, he would remain trapped in the family''s shadow, never to escape.


    He understood that the family''s arrangements were not based on pure trust but more on strategic maneuvering. In the family''s eyes, he was still an "object to be observed." All the arrangements and secrets were tests of his ability and loyalty.


    However, these documents also presented him with an opportunity¡ªa chance to find a way to distinguish himself. Lin Rui was keenly aware of the family''s schemes, calmly analyzing every word and phrase. He opened the documents, scanning each item, pondering how to find a breakthrough in these complex family affairs.


    The content of these documents involved the Lin family''s collaborations and competitions with other families, as well as investments and resource deployments across various merchant guilds in Azure Mist Province. Behind every decision lay immense risks and opportunities. Lin Rui understood that if the family wanted to maintain its position in Azure Mist Province, it had to find a path forward in this intricate and chaotic situation, and he might become a crucial piece in that strategy.


    He paused, his hand stilling, his gaze fixed on the bamboo grove outside the window. The wind rustled through the bamboo leaves, making a <i>sha-sha</i> sound. A flicker of determination flashed in Lin Rui''s eyes. He knew what he needed to do¡ªelevate his cultivation, earn the family''s recognition, gradually break free from the family''s constraints, and ultimately achieve his goals.


    "Then, I''ll start by understanding the family''s layout. Since I''ve already been reborn here, there''s no turning back." Lin Rui mused to himself, continuing to open the documents, delving into the analysis of each piece of information, trying to unearth potential opportunities and challenges ahead.


    Just as Lin Rui was engrossed in perusing the family records, soft footsteps approached outside the door. Lin Rui saw an older woman, nearing ninety, entering the room. She was slender, her skin slightly pale, but her eyes shone with deep wisdom, radiating a composed aura honed by years of experience. This was Granny Su, the Lin family''s most accomplished healing cultivator¡ªa recognized genius in medical arts within the family, capable of detecting any anomaly in the spiritual energy fluctuations of countless cultivators.


    "Young Master Lin, by family order, Granny Su has come to conduct a comprehensive examination." Granny Su gave a slight nod, her tone gentle yet firm, brooking no refusal.


    "Please." Lin Rui nodded calmly, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. He wasn''t worried that Granny Su could discern anything significant because even the most skilled healing cultivator couldn''t possibly uncover the true secrets of his soul. After all, a modern detective''s knowledge and deductive abilities had long imbued him with a perception far beyond the ordinary.


    Granny Su took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and gently formed a hand seal, beginning to guide her spiritual energy into Lin Rui''s body. This energy, imbued with her soul force, seeped into Lin Rui''s meridians and dantian-like fine silk threads, then gently wandered into the depths of his soul. The Lin family''s healing cultivation techniques centered on soul probing, which can accurately determine a cultivator''s physical and mental state, including cultivation progress, changes in aura, and even subtle fluctuations in spirit and soul.


    Lin Rui felt no discomfort as the spiritual energy entered his body. Instead, he sensed a warm power flowing through him, a sensation akin to being reborn in flames. His modern detective''s keenness and observational skills allowed him to perceive every subtle shift in external forces with exceptional clarity, even to react swiftly to them. But now, he was merely sensing the changes within his body, recalling his past "rebirth" process.


    For cultivators, the flow of spiritual and soul force was not just a manifestation of cultivation level; it represented one''s spiritual strength and, in a sense, the intensity of the soul itself. Each cultivator''s soul had a distinct state¡ªsome brimming with spiritual energy, their aura gentle; those with profound cultivation possessed souls like vast star seas, steady and deep. However, someone like Lin Rui, whose soul concealed unknown secrets, radiated a unique aura that felt both fresh and foreign from his very being.


    "Hmm?" Granny Su''s brow furrowed slightly. Her eyes remained closed, but she could sense that Lin Rui''s soul aura was subtly different. It wasn''t the typical aura of a reincarnated soul she had encountered before, but rather, as if he had been reborn, drawing completely new power from some unknown source. She sensed that the energy within Lin Rui''s body had a distinct variance compared to normal soul fluctuations.


    "No anomalies detected." Granny Su slowly opened her eyes, her expression relaxed, though a hint of complexity lingered. "Young Master Lin''s soul shows no signs of abnormality. While his soul aura is somewhat different from before, it doesn''t indicate possession. On the contrary, this change is akin to soul repair and sublimation."


    The Elder beside her, upon hearing this, couldn''t help but interject, "Granny Su, repair and sublimation? Does this mean Lin Rui''s soul truly underwent rebirth? But..."


    "Repair and sublimation," Granny Su affirmed with a gentle nod, her voice filled with certainty. "This change isn''t the typical resurrection, but rather a process of gradual sublimation, where the soul undergoes some special experience or tempering. The soul''s original structure has been strengthened, and its aura has become purer. This phenomenon often appears when a soul has suffered immense trauma and is re-energized and repaired."


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    Lin Rui lowered his head, a cold smile playing at the corner of his lips. These older generation cultivators were likely unaware that their understanding of "resurrection" and "rebirth" remained rooted in traditional interpretations. Granny Su''s diagnosis was undoubtedly accurate in its own way. Still, she could never perceive the secret hidden within him¡ªhe wasn''t simply "reborn" from a past life like a conventional soul reincarnation. His soul carried the knowledge and memories of a modern world, bearing indelible traces. The experiences from that modern society were, in this cultivation world, seemingly resurfacing in some form.


    "I see." Lin Rui responded softly, with a slight upturn to his lips and a hint of amusement in his eyes as he looked up at Granny Su. His expression remained mild and composed, but inwardly; he was still concerned about what else Granny Su might deduce. He started thinking about how to steer the conversation preemptively.


    After a moment, Lin Rui spoke casually and calmly, "Granny Su is indeed deeply versed in the Dao of soul cultivation. As for this change, the ancestral manifestation in the family enlightened me. Perhaps this ''sublimation'' and ''repair'' is the Ancestor''s power helping me stand in this world again."


    He casually mentioned "ancestral manifestation," as if everything was natural. Even in the cultivation world, many cultivators invoked the idea of "ancestral manifestation" to explain sudden breakthroughs or unusual soul changes. Lin Rui''s words, though simple, were convincing enough, especially within the context of a hereditary cultivation family.


    He offered a slight smile as if there was nothing amiss. "If it''s truly as Granny Su says, and my soul is somewhat special, then I must thank the Ancestors'' blessings. If I encounter further difficulties, I should still seek guidance from the Ancestors."


    Upon hearing this, Granny Su''s eyes flickered with a hint of surprise and curiosity, but she quickly masked it, nodding in agreement. "If that''s the case, Young Master Lin''s changes are indeed significant. If you have further questions, I will be available to assist you anytime."


    "Thank you, Granny Su," Lin Rui responded gently, inwardly resolving that the secret hidden within him must never be revealed to anyone in the family.


    He knew his real challenges were only beginning.


    Inside the meeting hall, the atmosphere was heavy. The core members of the Lin family had gathered, already seated.


    Lin Tianhua sat at the head of the table, his expression slightly grave. As the Family Head, his neutral stance had kept him from siding with anyone so far, but today''s meeting was when he had to decide.


    Lin Tianhong, the Great Elder, spoke with an undeniable air of authority, "Even with the ancestral manifestation, Lin Rui is still just an empty shell with noble blood. If he wants to enter the inner hall, he must first prove he''s qualified." His words dropped, and the atmosphere in the room grew even more tense.


    Lin Tiancheng sighed softly and interjected, "Great Elder, you also know that after the ancestral manifestation, expectations for Lin Rui are exceptionally high throughout the family. But that doesn''t mean we should let him enter the inner hall directly. After all, his cultivation is still inadequate. We can''t grant him power lightly because of the manifestation event."


    His tone was mild yet carried an unquestionable authority.


    "In that case, we should give him an opportunity," Lin Tiande suddenly spoke, his voice low and reserved. "Family tradition has always emphasized cultivation level and potential. If Lin Rui passes an assessment and reaches the first cultivation level, his status can be confirmed." He glanced across the room, seeming to hint at some unspoken plan.


    Lin Yuheng scoffed, "Assessment? He doesn''t even have the first level of cultivation and wants to enter the inner hall. This is just making a show of things." His words were full of provocation, his gaze fixed on Lin Tianhong, clearly awaiting the Elder''s direction.


    "Indeed," Lin Xuancheng''s voice chimed in. "What benefit could such a baseless assessment bring to the family? If Lin Rui doesn''t even have the basic aptitude for cultivation, wouldn''t it be a waste of family resources? Why should we expend so much effort on him?"


    Lin Fengyang frowned slightly, looking at Lin Tianhong with a worried expression. "I''m more concerned about Lin Rui''s impact on other aspects of the family, especially given the complexities of the business relationships in Bamboo Cloud Town. It could create unnecessary trouble if Lin Rui fails to cultivate and yet truly enters the inner hall."


    Lin Liechuan and Lin Zhaowu also voiced their opinions. The former argued that Lin Rui lacked sufficient combat strength and qualifications, while the latter contended that he wasn''t even qualified to access the family''s secret arts.


    Amidst such strong opposition, Lin Tianhong took a deep breath and finally looked up at the assembled family members. His voice was deep and resonant, "Everyone seems to be overlooking one crucial point. The ancestral manifestation has already shattered the family''s traditional precedents. If we don''t give Lin Rui a clear status, his existence will create immense instability within and outside the family. In any case, he must be brought into the inner hall, and this cannot be solely based on a fleeting manifestation."


    As his words fell, silence instantly descended upon the room.


    Lin Tianhong''s imposing presence deterred anyone from easily refuting him. Though his words were authoritative, his proposal made everyone pause and think deeply.


    "In that case," Lin Tianhua suddenly spoke, his voice gentle yet authoritative, "let''s do as Lin Tiande suggested and give Lin Rui an opportunity. The Elders of the inner hall can decide the content of the Assessment. But I propose that Lin Rui prove he''s qualified to enter the inner hall and demonstrate the potential to bring tangible benefits to the family."


    His gaze swept across everyone, eventually settling on the name Lin Rui. "This Assessment, in addition to cultivation level, can include challenges related to family affairs or difficult problems involving family resources. In any case, Lin Rui''s decision-making ability, adaptability, and even capacity to mobilize family resources will be crucial criteria for us to evaluate whether he can become a member of the inner hall."


    Lin Tianhong didn''t immediately object, seeming to weigh the feasibility of this proposal. He slowly nodded. "If that''s the case, we might as well have Lin Rui undergo a formal assessment. Besides examining his cultivation, this Assessment will certainly include his grasp of family resources and internal affairs. He can officially enter the inner hall if he can demonstrate sufficient wisdom and capability and his cultivation reaches the first level."


    Lin Yuheng sneered, "This kind of Assessment is too lenient. If Lin Rui passes, wouldn''t that put all of us at risk?"


    Lin Tiande remained unfazed, saying calmly, "It''s just an opportunity. If he can''t pass, the outcome will still be his exclusion from the family. Nothing to worry about."


    Lin Fengyang remained silent momentarily, finally looking up and saying, "Since both the Family Head and the Great Elder have agreed, let''s proceed in this direction. But I must also remind everyone that if Lin Rui succeeds, the allocation of family resources might become even more complicated."


    "Yes, everyone remembers, after the ancestral manifestation, Lin Rui''s existence cannot be ignored," Lin Tianhua said slowly, his gaze profound, as if he already had his own plans.


    Lin Rui was sitting by the window, head bowed over the family records, occasionally idly turning the teacup on the table with his fingertips, his expression focused yet thoughtful. Suddenly, soft footsteps came from outside the door. He slightly raised his head and saw his Second Uncle, Lin Tiancheng, strolling into the room.


    Lin Tiancheng wore a light green robe with subtle plum blossom patterns embroidered on the collar. His sleeves fluttered gently, giving him an air of innate elegance. His steps were steady, and his face held its usual calm demeanor, yet a subtle depth flickered in his eyes, not easily noticed.


    "Lin Rui, the Family Head, and Great Elder has decided to give you an opportunity for assessment," he said in a measured tone, holding a crystalline jade token in his hand. He slowly placed it on the table, his gaze profound, as if awaiting Lin Rui''s reaction.


    "Pass the Assessment, and you can become an inner hall member of the family. Your cultivation resources will be the same as inner hall members, and you can even enter the family academy to study cultivation and master the secret techniques," Lin Tiancheng paused, his eyes flickering slightly as if carefully choosing his words. "This is your only chance. Don''t disappoint the family."


    Lin Rui couldn''t help but chuckle, a thoughtful smile on his lips.


    "Oh? Sounds quite tempting," he raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of provocation in his eyes. "Assessment, inner hall, jade token... this whole series of rewards, it''s practically like playing a ''Family Challenge Game.'' But I suppose I have to pass the Assessment first to enjoy these perks."


    <i>Inwardly, he scoffed:</i> "If it''s as easy to breeze through these assessments as it used to be, it shouldn''t be too difficult. It''s just that the family''s power games always make things...uncomfortable."


    His gaze shifted slightly as if piercing through the superficial allure. <i>"But since this is a ''family game,'' I''ll go all in. At the very least, I''ll show them what a real ''challenge'' looks like."</i>


    He looked up at Lin Tiancheng, his tone light, "Assessment, huh? An opportunity? I don''t refuse. After all, if I can easily pass even this kind of test, wouldn''t that show them I''m not some ''useless'' puppet to be manipulated?"


    Lin Tiancheng watched him, his brow furrowing slightly, seemingly alerted by Lin Rui''s attitude, but said nothing. He just nodded, "You have one month to prepare."


    Lin Rui glanced around the room. The atmosphere was heavy and solemn as if everything was silently waiting for his every move. To him, this atmosphere felt just like a stage. Every gesture he made seemed like it could become the center of attention. <i>No,</i> he thought, <i>my go-go dancer''s showmanship instincts are kicking in.</i>


    "A month, huh..." He turned back to Lin Tiancheng, pretending to be serious. "Since it''s an ''assessment,'' I should prepare properly. After all, as a ''new blood'' who''s just been reborn, I''ve got to save some face."


    He paused deliberately, a hint of provocation in the smile at the corner of his mouth. "Who knows just how ''rigorous'' this Assessment will be? Your Lin family rules aren''t exactly ''light and breezy'' entertainment."


    Lin Tiancheng''s expression flickered slightly, his lips twitching, but he still replied calmly, "It''s your decision."


    Lin Rui waved a hand dismissively, smiling easily. "Of course, it''s my decision. I''m not the character who gets beaten down so easily." He quirked a smile, a sharp glint in his eyes. "Don''t worry, I''ll give it my all; I won''t disappoint anyone."


    Lin Tiancheng seemed to want to say something more, but in the end, he said nothing further and turned to leave. The door closed softly, leaving Lin Rui alone in the room.


    His gaze deepened, and he lowered his head to touch the jade token, a cold smile rising in his heart. <i>Assessment? Do they think I''m brainless? I didn''t watch all those palace intrigue dramas for nothing. This is just a formality. Family power struggles never really follow the rules.</i>


    He chuckled softly, his eyes sharp. <i>"Still, this is an opportunity. At least I can use this status to access the family''s internal secrets truly."</i>


    Lin Rui''s lips curled upwards. <i>"Either way, as long as I get into the inner hall, enjoy the cultivation resources, and conveniently use what the family gives me further to investigate the cause of the original body''s death... with an opportunity like this, how could I not seize it?"</i>


    He stretched languidly, relaxed, and composed like a free dancer on a stage. <i>"...And besides, it''ll give me a chance to put on a good show. A little playful trickery? Who says I can''t use that?"</i>


    Meanwhile, outside, Lin Tiancheng looked back at the newly renovated courtyard, thinking, <i>"Lin Rui is different now. It seems the Ancestors did give him a good... adjustment down there."</i>

 Chapter 6: Preliminary Planning and Task Commencement

    Lin Rui stood by the window, looking at the distant, verdant mountains through the delicate bamboo shadows. A cool breeze wafted in from outside, ruffling his slightly damp hair. At this moment, he felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. After all, his path of cultivation was about to begin today.


    Lin Rui took a deep breath and temporarily suppressed the thoughts of family disputes. He knew very well that to gain a foothold in this cultivation world where strength reigned supreme; the priority was to pass the upcoming assessment, enter the Lin family''s inner sanctum, and improve his strength.


    He focused on the Primordial ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· on the desk. The pages were yellowed and had a faint sandalwood scent, which was obviously quite old. It was essential for the introductory cultivation of the Lin family disciples. Recording the breathing methods formed by generations of Lin family predecessors aimed at guiding beginners to sense the spiritual energy of heaven and earth and mobilize the hidden spiritual meridians in their bodies.


    Lin Rui opened the book and studied it word by word, sentence by sentence. The text of the Primordial ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· was not obscure or difficult to understand; on the contrary, it was pretty straightforward to grasp, meticulously describing the meridian paths through which spiritual energy circulated, as well as the breathing methods coordinated with the heart mantra. As described in the book, he adjusted his breathing, sensed the spiritual meridians inside his body, and tried to meditate to feel the "spiritual energy of heaven and earth" described in the book.


    However, half an hour passed. Apart from feeling a slight fatigue, Lin Rui''s body showed no reaction, let alone sense the so-called "spiritual energy." Unwilling to give up, he tried several more times, but the result was still the same.


    "It seems that this ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· is still useless to my body. No wonder the original owner practiced this technique for so long without effect." Lin Rui slowly opened his eyes, frowned slightly, and pondered. He sensed no problem with the heart mantra itself, and the breathing method was also quite sophisticated. Still, for some reason, his body seemed inherently incompatible with this set of heart mantras, like gears and bearings with subtle but fatal deviations, unable to fit perfectly and naturally unable to exert its due effect.


    He was not impatient. As a private detective in his previous life, he had spent weeks or even months studying boring clues to solve complex mysteries. He was already accustomed to repeated attempts and patient waiting.


    So, Lin Rui was not discouraged; instead, he felt a faint excitement rising in his heart. For him, obstacles ahead, a natural "puzzle solver," were another kind of "challenge."


    Since the ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· won''t work, then let''s change tack. Understanding this world''s cultivation system from the source might reveal a method more suitable for me." Lin Rui made a quick decision. He placed the ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· back on the desk, stood up, and headed out of the room.


    The Lin Family Archive Pavilion, located in a tranquil area at the core of the family grounds, was an ancient, rustic wooden building nestled amidst lush bamboo groves, exuding an air of serene antiquity. It housed countless volumes accumulated by generations of Lin Family predecessors, encompassing the myriad arts of cultivation, secret techniques, and all manner of strange tales and anecdotes ¨C the Lin Family''s most important repository of knowledge.


    With his status as a "quasi-inner sect disciple," Lin Rui gained entry to the Archive Pavilion without a hitch. Inside, bookshelves stood in rows, ancient books stretching as far as the eye could see. The air was permeated with a faint scent of ink and the musty odor of aged paper, instantly bringing peace to one''s mind.


    Lin Rui''s goal was clear. He headed straight for the bookshelves where "Basic Cultivation" books were placed and began to browse carefully. Soon, a weighty tome titled ¡¶An Overview of Cultivation in Azure Mist Province¡· caught his attention. The pages were already yellowed, obviously having been read countless times. The corners were worn, but it was otherwise well-preserved.


    Lin Rui pulled out the book, found a quiet corner in the pavilion to sit down, and began to study it earnestly.


    The book''s opening chapter detailed the division of cultivation levels in Azure Mist Province and even the entire cultivation world. The book didn''t simply describe the growth of cultivators'' power. Instead, it explained the layered leaps in the essence of a cultivator''s life, like a cultivator gradually merging with the "spirit network" between heaven and earth, progressively mastering the laws of heaven and earth. These levels included:


    Level 1: Secret Art Enlightenment (Initial)


    Level 2: Heart Mantra Initial Cultivation


    Level 3: Meridian Awakening


    Level 4: Law Technique Initial Glimpse


    Level 5: Family Heritage Foundation Establishment


    Level 6: Secret Art Internal Refinement


    Level 7: Pill Technique Initial Refinement


    Level 8: Law Meridian Gradual Opening


    Level 9: Heart Method Condensation


    Level 10: Secret Art Immersion


    Level 11: Law Technique Deep Cultivation


    Level 12: Family Heritage Pill Completion


    Level 13: Meridian Thorough Understanding


    Level 14: Secret Art Comprehensive Penetration


    Level 15: Heart Method Great Accomplishment


    Level 16: Secret Art Integrated Mastery


    Level 17: Inheritance Sublimation


    Level 19: Peerless Skill Initial Success


    Level 20: Inheritance Pinnacle


    The book explained that these twenty levels were not like the simple accumulation of power of secular martial artists but rather the depth of a cultivator''s understanding of "secret arts" and the degree of their integration with the "Heavenly Dao."


    Breakthroughs at each level meant a qualitative leap in the cultivator''s control over spiritual energy, extension of lifespan, and application of laws. In other words, each breakthrough of a cultivator elevated the essence of life.


    The book emphasized the twelfth level as the "watershed" between mortal and immortal cultivation.


    Before the twelfth level, cultivators were still in a "mortal body," and their physical bodies limited their strength and lifespan.


    Once they broke through the twelfth level, they could "transcend mortality," and their vitality and cultivation would significantly improve, entering a higher realm of cultivation and powers.


    "Twelfth level, the ''watershed'' of mortal and immortal cultivation..." Lin Rui frowned slightly, silently noting this key piece of information.


    Combining what Granny Su had said before and the Lin family''s emphasis on "inner sect disciples," he vaguely felt that this twelfth level might be an essential benchmark for measuring the "foundation" and "strength" of a cultivation family.


    However, Lin Rui also noticed a description in the book stating that no cultivator above the twelfth level had appeared for thousands of years.


    Lin Rui didn''t dwell on this, though. He continued reading.


    The book describes in detail the key points and characteristics of each stage of cultivation. For example, in the "Secret Art Enlightenment" stage, cultivators needed to initially contact with secret arts by "sensing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth" and establishing a cognitive understanding and aspiration for the path of cultivation.


    In the "Heart Mantra Initial Cultivation" stage, they would begin to learn basic heart mantras, experience the operational patterns of Qi energy, and lay a foundation for subsequent cultivation. By the "Meridian Awakening" stage, a cultivator''s meridians would gradually become unobstructed, and they would begin to perceive the flow of Qi energy and mobilize faint spiritual power.


    Lin Rui carefully compared the descriptions in the book and found that the ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· he was learning was not wholly consistent with the requirements of these cultivation stages. The book pointed out that the core of the "Secret Art Enlightenment" stage lay in "sensing the spiritual energy of heaven and earth." Still, he had not even completed this first step of sensing, so truly "entering the door" was obviously out of reach.


    "It seems that relying solely on the ¡¶Lin Family Heart Mantra¡· is not feasible. I have to find another way, to find a more suitable method of enlightenment for me..." Lin Rui secretly made up his mind. He closed ¡¶An Overview of Cultivation in Azure Mist Province¡· and took another book from the bookshelf, titled ¡¶A First Exploration of the Spirit Network¡·.


    The cover of this book depicted a complex and profound rune network, emitting a faint glow, giving people a mysterious and unpredictable feeling. Lin Rui opened the book and was instantly drawn to the world of the "spirit network" described within.


    ¡¶A First Exploration of the Spirit Network¡· detailed the unique "spirit network" system of the cultivation world and the key role of the "spirit network" in various aspects of the cultivator''s cultivation, life, and combat. The book compared the "spirit network" to an "invisible net" covering the entire cultivation world, interwoven with countless tiny "spirit threads," connecting everything in heaven and earth, from mountains and rivers to vegetation and creatures, and even every cultivator''s "consciousness" and "soul." Through unique secret arts, cultivators connected their own "consciousness" with the "spirit network," thereby "sensing," absorbing, and even manipulating the "spiritual energy" between heaven and earth.


    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    As cultivation levels increased, the connection between cultivators and the spirit network deepened, and the spiritual power they could mobilize became stronger, enabling them to unleash increasingly powerful Shentong. The core task for cultivators in the "Secret Art Enlightenment" stage was to establish an initial connection with the "spirit network." After successfully connecting to the spirit network, cultivators could absorb spiritual energy easily and freely, like fish in water, truly stepping into the door of cultivation.


    "Spirit Network..." Lin Rui murmured to himself, the concept of the "Internet" from his previous life involuntarily surfacing in his mind. Although the "Spirit Network" and the "Internet" were not entirely the same, they shared a similarity: both were systems for exchanging and transmitting information and energy; only one connected spiritual energy and consciousness, while the other connected digits and information.


    "Perhaps I can try to start from the perspective of the ''Spirit Network'' to find a method of enlightenment that suits me better... Let me jot this down first and then look at other books." A thought flickered in Lin Rui''s mind. He closed ¡¶A First Exploration of the Spirit Network¡·, stood up, and placed the book back on the bookshelf.


    He continued browsing the books in the Archive Pavilion, his fingertips tracing the cover of a worn tome titled ¡¶Miscellaneous Talks on Hundreds of Industries in Cultivation¡·. The pages were yellowed, the corners slightly curled, exuding an air of antiquity. This book was not the rigorous career guide he had initially imagined but more like a cultivator''s "survival manual," revealing, in an almost common street vernacular, the more realistic and harsh picture of survival beneath the glamorous surface of the cultivation world.


    When he opened the pages, what greeted his eyes were not profound professional classifications but rather segments of "daily life of cultivators" thick with the smells of the marketplace.


    "...At mao hour in the morning, the alchemy furnace of Blacksmith Li''s family in the east of Emerald Micro City exploded again, the shock audible throughout the neighborhood. It''s said that the newly arrived alchemy apprentice was dozing off out of laziness and didn''t control the heat properly. Several hundred Qi Nourishing Pills were all ruined. Blacksmith Li was so enraged on the spot that he spat out three liters of blood, while the apprentice had his legs broken and was thrown directly out the door. Tsk, tsk, the alchemy profession is indeed high-risk, high-reward. One step to heaven, one step to hell..."


    "...Butcher Zhang from the west of the city, yesterday again spent a fortune at Drunken Immortal Tavern, booking the entire third floor just to fete a few demon beast hunters. They just hunted down a Rank 3 Blood Wolf deep within the Ten Thousand Demon Mountains. Just that demon core alone is worth a fortune. Tsk, tsk, and combat cultivators are the professions that can accumulate wealth fastest. A blade in hand, ten thousand taels of gold. But their heads hang on their belts; who knows which day they''ll be gone..."


    "...Recently, Old Wang''s Talisman Shop in the north of the city has been booming. Rumor has it they''ve newly hired a talisman master. The talismans he crafts are much more powerful and reasonably priced, attracting countless cultivators to come and purchase them. Tsk, tsk, the talisman crafting profession is indeed one that can make a fortune in silence. A small talisman can sell for a sky-high price. But you can''t master this skill in ten or eight years..."


    Between the lines were not "noble sentiments" or "lofty ideals" but naked survival and profit, as well as the ordinary, everyday life of the city with a touch of black humor. ¡¶Miscellaneous Talks on Hundreds of Industries in Cultivation¡· was like a slightly distorted mirror, reflecting the true face of the cultivation world: prosperity and desolation coexisting, glamour and darkness intertwined, with both the lure of "one step to heaven" and the risk of "falling into the abyss."


    Lin Rui read with relish. Although these "miscellaneous talks" seemed trivial, they sketched out from the side the current survival status and "unwritten rules" of various "professions" in the cultivation world. He gradually realized that so-called "combat professions," seemingly infinitely glorious and living on the edge, once entered, were destined to be companions with life and death. One careless step, and one would lose their life. Moreover, "combat professions" in the cultivation world were opportunities for influential experts and required extraordinary strength, agile adaptability, and sufficient courage and luck. A slight misstep and death was a real possibility.


    While seemingly stable on the surface, these "production professions" were full of competition. Especially in trades like alchemy, artifact crafting, and talisman making, superb skills, and keen minds were required, as well as years of accumulation and constant innovation. Those who could stand out were often cultivators with exceptional skills and the ability to follow trends.


    As for "auxiliary professions," though seemingly straightforward, they were among the most demanding in the cultivation world, with extremely high thresholds. They required unique talents, a long-term accumulation of experience, and the ability to demonstrate exceptional wisdom and cooperation skills in handling complex interpersonal relationships and the demands of powerful cultivators. "Special professions," on the other hand, were even more elusive and rare. Almost all cultivators in such professions were accompanied by unpredictable opportunities and fated arrangements. These professions often required the right timing, geographical advantages, and harmonious relationships; they were tricky to replicate. Some of these professions even existed only in legends.


    This was hardly the "immortal-like" cultivation world. It was a large-scale "survival arena" where everyone was doing their best to "live on," engaging in deceit and betrayal, the law of the jungle playing out to the fullest.


    "Tsk, it is ''realistic'' enough..." Lin Rui''s lips curled into a slightly mocking arc. This "true" face of the "cultivation world" was vastly different from the "wonderland" he had initially imagined, yet it made him feel a strange sense of "familiarity" and "intimacy." After all, wasn''t the "modern society" he lived in in his previous life just another "survival arena"? It was just draped in a layer of more exquisite and civilized "disguise," but in essence, it was still "the strong eat the weak," "survival of the fittest."


    Continuing to read, Lin Rui discovered that some of the "miscellaneous talks" in the book described not only the current state of cultivation but also many ways for cultivators to gain experience and growth by undertaking tasks. Each task was not just a simple action but an opportunity to accumulate knowledge, improve abilities, and even breakthrough in cultivation.


    "Escort missions" were mentioned multiple times. These types of missions were usually suitable for cultivators who were new to the cultivation world. Although they seemed ordinary, they were full of potential. Although Lin Rui cannot directly manipulate spiritual energy at present, after completing missions, cultivators can accumulate "basic cultivation experience" through practical tasks. This experience did not directly improve cultivation levels but helped cultivators adjust their bodies and minds, cultivate keen perception, and gradually understand the flow of spiritual energy and cultivation techniques. For Lin Rui, these missions did not directly bring about an increase in spiritual energy. Still, they trained his "reaction ability," "observation skills," and "survival ability," allowing him to gradually become aware of the existence of spiritual energy and stimulate his potential.


    "''Escort missions''... ''spirit rice''... ''newbie cultivators''..." A thoughtful glimmer flickered in Lin Rui''s eyes. In his current state, although he was still in the early stages of cultivation and hadn''t even reached the first level of cultivation, these types of missions seemed to fit his needs perfectly. Not only were the risks moderate and the rewards acceptable, but most importantly, they could provide him with an opportunity for "field research." He could accumulate experience through these missions, gradually cultivate his potential for spiritual energy perception, familiarize himself with the ecology of the cultivation world, and build his physical fitness and reaction capabilities, laying a solid foundation for his subsequent cultivation.


    "It''s like an entry trial for the cultivation world. After completing missions, my experience points should improve somewhat." Lin Rui pondered to himself. "By accumulating experience through missions, I can continuously advance in body conditioning and perception enhancement, preparing for the future when I can control spiritual energy."


    Lin Rui suddenly recalled the original owner''s cultivation process. The original owner had merely cultivated behind closed doors, relying on practicing some essential martial arts and physical skills, desperately build his physical body, but had never broken through to the spiritual energy level. At that time, he had never tried missions nor realized the true meaning of cultivation. He was alone, mistakenly believing that as long as he kept strengthening his physical body, he could break through in cultivation. As it turned out, this path was simply unworkable.


    "Perhaps the original owner never came into contact with missions and missed the most important opportunity." Lin Rui felt a bit self-mocking in his heart, strengthening his resolve. "The mission approach might allow me to embark on a different path of cultivation and break through past bottlenecks."


    Suddenly, his gaze fell on a book on the bookshelf titled ¡¶The Way of Cultivation for Cultivators¡·. His heart stirred. He reached out, pulled out the book, and opened the first page. The book mentioned that in Azure Clouds World, cultivator cultivation was not simply a vague improvement based on personal perception, but rather, there was a complete "spiritual energy perception system." Whenever a cultivator''s control over spiritual energy or body conditioning reached a certain level, the cultivator would feel a subtle change. This change was neither a surge of spiritual energy nor a sudden increase in strength, but rather the body''s senses gradually becoming more delicate and precise.


    The book also mentioned that Azure Clouds World had a unique detection device called a "Spiritual Sense Meter." This device could detect a cultivator''s cultivation level, and when a cultivator performed spiritual energy circulation or body conditioning, it could accurately react their current cultivation state. The "Spiritual Sense Meter" could accurately detect a cultivator''s level and analyze the details of a cultivator''s spiritual energy control and body conditioning, helping cultivators understand their progress.


    "Each time there''s an improvement, there will be some slight sensation, perhaps sensing that the flow of spiritual energy in the spirit network is more delicate or that the meridians in the body have become more unobstructed. And the ''Spiritual Sense Meter'' will convert these changes into concrete data, allowing cultivators to know whether they have reached a new level." Lin Rui''s heart stirred. It seemed that they would also use the "Spiritual Sense Meter" for the upcoming assessment to confirm whether he had made a breakthrough.


    He continued reading, learning in detail how to use the "Spiritual Sense Meter. " He discovered that if cultivators gradually improved their abilities during missions, they could use the "Spiritual Sense Meter" to confirm their progress after completing the missions. This process not only allowed cultivators to confirm their cultivation level but also helped them clarify their cultivation direction and avoid detours.


    Lin Rui closed the book, his mind filled with clarity. Although the path of cultivation was still full of unknowns, he could already feel a glimmer of hope for a breakthrough. Through the information in ¡¶Miscellaneous Talks on Hundreds of Industries in Cultivation¡· and the "Spiritual Sense Meter" for testing cultivation, he was no longer cultivating unquestioningly. He had a more precise direction in his mind.


    "It seems that doing more basic tasks first may be the key to my breakthrough in the current situation." Lin Rui pondered silently, a glimmer of light flickering in his eyes. By accumulating experience through tasks, he could enhance his perception of spiritual energy and body conditioning and use the observations from the functions to help him better understand the essence of cultivation. He realized that tasks were not just about simple "completion"¡ªthey were a cultivation path tailored for cultivators¡ªeach completion of a task meant growth and progress.


    The existence of the Spiritual Sense Meter made Lin Rui even more excited. According to the book''s description, each mission completion would bring subtle spiritual energy fluctuations or changes in body conditioning, and these changes could be reflected with the help of the Spiritual Sense Meter. Through the Spiritual Sense Meter, Lin Rui could intuitively see his progress and determine whether he had entered a new realm or was one step closer to a breakthrough. He no longer needed to rely on vague impressions of feeling but could confirm through scientific detection whether he had made substantial improvements.


    "If I can use these tools, I can not only improve my cultivation level but also lay a solid foundation for the future." Lin Rui gradually clarified his goals. "For the upcoming tasks, I must do them more meticulously, not just for the sake of completing them, but to accumulate experience through each practice, gradually improve my cultivation methods, and advance towards the goal of ''Secret Art Enlightenment.''"


    He stood up and left the Archive Pavilion, his mind already possessing a clear plan. Next, he planned to register his cultivator identity and choose a low-level mission suitable for him. As he completed missions, he gradually accumulated experience, improved his cultivation progress, and used the "Spiritual Sense Meter" to confirm his breakthrough status. With that, he would have more confidence for the subsequent assessment.

 Chapter 7: When Clouds Rise, Heavenly Law Stir, and Spirit First Awakens

    As dawn tinted the sky, Bamboo Cloud Town stirred awake from its overnight slumber. Thin mist curled amidst the grey tiles and white walls, like gossamer veils draped across winding stone-slabbed paths. Early spirit birds chirped merrily within the bamboo groves, filled with the faint, clean scent of bamboo leaves and the freshness of morning dew.


    Lin Rui pushed open his room door, inhaling deeply, and savored the crisp air unlike that of Los Angeles. He changed into a set of azure-blue close-fitting attire, cinching a belt embroidered with the Lin Family''s azure serpent pattern around his waist. His short hair was neatly styled, his eyes bright, and his entire being radiated vitality, a world apart from the "resurrected" youth in the ancestral hall of yesterday.


    He walked along the bluestone slab path toward the heart of Bamboo Cloud Town. Along both sides of the street, shops were gradually opening for business, and steam billowed from breakfast stalls. The aromas of spirit rice cakes, spirit-infused buns, and Pure Heart Dew mingled in the air, a tantalizing fragrance.


    "Oh, isn''t this Little Rui from the Lin Family? Up so early today?" A middle-aged woman selling breakfast called out warmly.


    Lin Rui smiled faintly in response. "Good morning, Aunt Wang. Heading to the Heavenly Law Division to handle some matters today."


    "Heavenly Law Division? Going to register as a cultivator, is it?" Aunt Wang''s eyes brightened, her tone tinged with envy.


    "Mm-hmm." Lin Rui nodded, not elaborating further.


    "Good lad, you''ve got ambition!" Aunt Wang gave a thumbs-up. "Once you become an official cultivator, don''t forget Aunt Wang''s spirit-infused buns!"


    Lin Rui chuckled in agreement and continued onwards. He recalled that the original owner of his body had been frail as a child, often falling ill. Aunt Wang, kind-hearted as she was, would often gift him some of her homemade spirit rice cakes to nourish his health-a kindness he had always kept in mind.


    Along the way, many town residents recognized him, greeting him with curiosity and awe. After all, the tale of the "Ancestor Manifestation" had already spread throughout Bamboo Cloud Town. Lin Rui, the Lin Family scion who had "returned from the dead," was now a local celebrity.


    "Hey, look, Little Rui of the Lin Family is back!" A middle-aged woman with a medicine kit hanging from her waist stood by the roadside, watching Lin Rui pass by, and couldn''t help but whisper to her neighbor beside her.


    "Aye, never thought that lad would come back to life," an elderly man beside her said, shaking his head, a trace of astonishment in his eyes. "To think, the Lin Family was already holding a memorial service for him that day in the ancestral hall. Who knew he''d suddenly revive? Truly, the Mandate of Heaven made manifest."


    "Heard it was the Ancestor manifesting, specifically bringing him back," the middle-aged woman said mysteriously. "My son was messing around near the ancestral hall when he overheard the Old Clan Head saying Lin Rui had been dead for seven days before reviving. Incredible!"


    "Ancestor manifestation? Sounds a bit far-fetched," the elderly man muttered. "I did hear, though, that the Lin Family recently had a mysterious talisman master return, specifically to treat Lin Rui. Even my fourth boy saw him."


    "Talisman master? Haven''t heard about that," the middle-aged woman said, momentarily stunned, then whispered, "But say, Lin Rui being able to revive-does it mean he possesses even greater talent? Otherwise, how could he have such potent luck?"


    "Talent? Can''t say about that," the old man demurred, shaking his head. "He''s only eighteen, and no talent has been shown yet. But recently, the Lin Family''s internal strife has flared up again. Not sure if it''s because of Lin Rui''s revival or if something new has shifted within the family since his sudden return."


    At this moment, another older woman approached from across the way. Hearing their conversation, she couldn''t help but interject, "You''re all not quite right. I heard that after Lin Rui revived, he first met with the Lin Family''s Old Ancestor, then spoke at length with the Lin Clan Head directly." She smiled mysteriously. "My son works for the Lin Family. He says Lin Rui seems intent on changing the family''s current state. That''s a big deal!"


    "Change the current state? Look at that kid-they just came back to life. How could he have such ability?" the middle-aged woman retorted. "If he could change things, wouldn''t that mean a major upheaval within the Lin Family? I''d rather see if he can get more support from the family. After all, he hasn''t had any cultivation for so many years. How''s he going to survive in the cultivation world?"


    "Cultivation is secondary," the elderly woman countered, shaking her head. "Didn''t you hear that after Lin Rui revived, he received some precious cultivation resources? My daughter told me that the Lin Family gave him several excellent cultivation manuals and spirit pills. This revival of his-the Lin Family must have plans. They wouldn''t give up on him easily."


    "Cultivation manuals and spirit pills?" The older man''s eyes brightened. "In that case, this kid is indeed not simple. Who would''ve thought Lin Rui, back from the dead, would hold such secrets?"


    "Indeed," the middle-aged woman agreed, nodding. "But people ask if Lin Rui will take over the Lin Family''s position. That''s what everyone is most concerned about. After all, he''s gotten more attention now than ever. The Lin Family elders probably wouldn''t dare to underestimate him, would they?"


    "Take over the Lin Family''s position?" The older woman scoffed. "You''re joking. The next in line will definitely be Lin Tianhong. It''s not Little Rui''s turn."


    "Lin Tianhong?" The older man frowned slightly. "True enough. After all, he is the current Family Head''s eldest son. It should be him."


    "Haha, well, let''s just watch the show," the middle-aged woman chuckled. "But judging by appearances, Lin Rui''s reputation is booming. I bet many families are keeping an eye on him. When that happens, the storm within the Lin Family won''t be small."


    Lin Rui frowned slightly upon hearing this discussion. He didn''t break his stride but quickened his pace slightly, his eyes reflecting a trace of contemplation. These discussions about his revival and the family, though gossip, served as a reminder. He was more than just the Lin Family''s resurrected "miracle." Some were already beginning to spread the news to control public opinion in town. Things were starting to develop in an interesting direction.


    "If they knew that the Ancestor manifestation was all made up by me, that I''m a transmigrator, they''d probably be even more astonished," Lin Rui thought.


    On his way to the Heavenly Law Division, Lin Rui carefully observed his surroundings. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, Bamboo Cloud Town was more like a tranquil ink-wash painting-ancient, serene, and full of life. Here, there were no towering steel and glass structures. The buildings lining the streets mostly retained their ancient styles-grey tile roofs and white walls, stone-carved window lattices, and low eaves, as if one could hear melodious zither music at any moment.


    The air was permeated with the faint, clean scent of bamboo leaves and the fragrance of soil, giving one peace and tranquility. Bamboo Cloud Town''s streets were narrow and winding. Occasionally, slender bamboo stalks could be seen swaying in the breeze by the roadside, their verdant shadows dappling the stone-slabbed paths with spots of light. Morning sunlight filtered through the bamboo grove, scattering variegated patches of light, appearing exceptionally warm as if one had stepped into another world.


    Along both sides of the streets, besides a dazzling array of breakfast stalls, there were also many pharmacies, talisman shops, spirit material stores, and other cultivation-related shops. Several older men were discussing the recent prices of spirit herbs in hushed tones at the entrances of pharmacies. Inside the talisman shops, the scent of paper and ink permeated the air, and various talismans were displayed, some faintly luminescent, others seemingly concealing mystical energies. Outside the spirit material stores, a slender spirit wood staff hung suspended, covered in fully engraved runes, appearing mysterious and as if it could sense the undulations of the surrounding spiritual energy.


    In more prominent locations, several shops displayed all sorts of signboards above their doors-some inscribed with "Centuries-Old Shop," seemingly weathered by countless years; some painted with peculiar runes, the surrounding spiritual energy subtly stirring, as if in mystical covenant with this heaven and earth; others, more directly, hung massive demon beast heads, their ferocious fangs and eyes seemingly perpetually warning passersby that this was a shop of extraordinary power.


    Lin Rui couldn''t help but sigh inwardly, "This is the cultivation world, then..." His gaze swept over the cultivators coming and going on the street, and a peculiar sense of excitement surged within him. Although he had inherited the original owner''s memories, personally experiencing this world filled him with unparalleled novelty and excitement. Every detail and scene seemed to be unveiled to him the boundless charm of the cultivation world. Every blade of grass and tree, every person and object here, contained the aura of cultivation as if the world as a whole had spiritual energy.


    He caught sight of a middle-aged man in azure robes emerging from a spirit material store, a fine short sword hanging at his waist. Several sparkling and translucent spirit stones were embedded in the sword hilt, spiritual energy swirling around them as if mysterious power flowed within the blade. The man exuded a composed, collected air, each step drawing the attention of many passersby.


    "He should be a cultivator with cultivation," Lin Rui mused, a longing rising in his heart that he too could one day, with these resources and spiritual energy, embark on the path of cultivation and attain such power and authority.


    Unknowingly, Lin Rui arrived before the most prominent building in Bamboo Cloud Town. This edifice distinctly differed from the surrounding ancient residences, its exterior simple and stately yet exuding an undeniable grandeur. The outer walls were constructed of smooth, white stone, their surfaces engraved with intricate golden runes. The runes radiated a faint glow as if sensing the flow of spiritual energy in the vicinity. Wisps of pristine white mist gently swirled atop the building, adding a touch of celestial air. Yet, it didn''t feel as distant and unattainable as legendary divine palaces but more approachable and natural.


    Tablet hung above the main entrance, the characters inscribed elegant and dignified, reading- "Heavenly Law Division ¡¤ Bamboo Cloud Town Branch." The strokes of these characters were fluid, the brushwork steady and robust, bearing a restrained sense of strength, perfectly complementing the building''s style. Below the tablet, four golden bronze pillars stood in neat rows, their surfaces carved with simple yet exquisite rune patterns, symbolizing the power and wisdom of cultivators. These runes were more than mere decoration; they were symbols of the Heavenly Law Division''s dignity and authority.


    Two warm lanterns hung at the entrance of the Heavenly Law Division, emitting a soft golden light. The lamplight shimmered faintly in the mist, illuminating the stone-slabbed path ahead. The light would flicker slightly whenever someone passed by as if guiding cultivators towards new paths. Compared to the hustle and bustle of other shops, this building appeared more solemn and serene, as if safeguarding the order and laws of cultivation in Bamboo Cloud Town.


    "Heavenly Law Division..." Lin Rui paused in his steps. "Looks like this is the management institution for cultivators in the Azure Clouds World."


    The Heavenly Law Division was in charge of numerous affairs, such as cultivator registration, assessments, and issuing some official missions. It was closely related to the growth and cultivation of nearly every cultivator. Here, one could see figures of cultivators seeking knowledge and taking examinations, as well as representatives of families or sects handling affairs, and even some who came to fight and settle grievances. It was more than just an ordinary building. It symbolized the order and authority of the cultivation world, the "entry ticket" coveted by countless cultivators.


    Lin Rui took a deep breath and strode towards the magnificent edifice, his heart brimming with anticipation-this step marked his actual starting point in the cultivation world.


    Inside the grand hall, people bustled about in a lively atmosphere. There were young individuals seeking to register as cultivators, cultivators arriving to accept missions, and representatives of cultivation families here to resolve disputes.


    Lin Rui approached a counter marked "New Cultivator Registration," taking his place at the back of the queue.


    The line moved forward steadily, and Lin Rui''s gaze swept across the hall, taking in his surroundings. He noticed numerous mission scrolls hanging on the walls, detailing mission content, difficulty, rewards, and other information.


    "Escort caravan to Azure City, reward: ten spirit stones."


    "Collect ten Purple Cloud Herbs, and reward: one Qi Nourishing Pill."


    "Assist in investigating demon beast attack incident; reward: dependent on circumstances."


    ...


    A dazzling array of missions overwhelmed Lin Rui. He pondered, contemplating which mission he should choose as his "first step in cultivation."


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    "Next!" A middle-aged man behind the counter called out impatiently.


    Lin Rui snapped back to attention and stepped forward.


    "Name, age, origin, cultivation level," the middle-aged man asked without looking up, his tone curt.


    "Lin Rui, eighteen years old, Lin Family of Bamboo Cloud Town, Azure Mist Province, currently... not yet formally cultivated," Lin Rui answered truthfully.


    The middle-aged man frowned slightly, looking up at him. "Not yet cultivated? Are you daring to register as a cultivator without cultivation? Do you know the rules?"


    Lin Rui''s mind raced, keenly aware that the Heavenly Law Division would be particularly demanding towards cultivators without cultivation. He replied steadily, "I am aware, but I have obtained temporary authorization from the Lin Family elders, permitting me to register as a cultivator. Although I lack cultivation, the family elders believe I have potential and thus secured this opportunity."


    "Authorization from family elders?" The middle-aged man''s expression faltered, his eyebrows slightly raised. "You mean... a specially approved youth from the Lin Family?"


    Lin Rui nodded, retrieving the jade token Lin Tiancheng had given him earlier from his bosom, and handed it over.


    The middle-aged man took the jade token and glanced over it. The token did not display Lin Rui''s cultivation level but instead clearly showed a special seal of the Lin Family elders. Only elders within the family were qualified to bestow such a seal upon their descendants. The middle-aged man frowned, muttering, "So, a specially authorized identity from the Lin Family. Indeed, it is different."


    After carefully examining the jade token, his expression gradually softened, and he set aside his prejudice against Lin Rui, finally speaking, "Since that''s the case, we''ll make an exception and register you." He took out a blank jade slip, placed it on the desk, and lightly tapped the rune array below it with his finger. Instantly, the jade slip on the desk glowed faintly, flashing azure light. Flowing characters and patterns can be seen through the light, which initiates the registration process.


    "However, I must remind you that this special status is limited to registration. The path of cultivation ultimately still depends on your efforts," the middle-aged man said in a flat tone, continuing his operations, seemingly indifferent to Lin Rui''s circumstances.


    "I understand," Lin Rui nodded in response, his mind already contemplating how to go further on the path of cultivation.


    "Alright, since the family has already made arrangements, I will register you." The middle-aged man lightly waved his hand, and the jade slip on the desk vibrated subtly, then a line of light emerged:


    "Cultivator Registration Record


    Name: Lin Rui


    Date of Birth: Green Jade Moon, Osmanthus Day, 2600th Year of the Present Epoch


    Origin: Bamboo Cloud Town, Azure Mist Province


    Family: Lin Family


    Family Authorization Seal: Personally Signed Seal of Lin Family Elder


    Cultivation Level: None


    Cultivation Aptitude: Pending (may be improved based on subsequent cultivation performance)


    Special Identity Remarks: Special status, personally granted by Lin Family Elder."


    This text rapidly materialized on the jade slip''s surface and then was recorded. The middle-aged man sighed softly and continued to operate the device. "Your identity information has been entered into the Heavenly Law Division''s cultivator archives. In the future, if mission requirements or cultivator verifications are needed, this jade token can be used for inspection." He lightly pressed his finger, and the surface of the jade slip gradually brightened with blue light, eventually solidifying into a jade token gleaming with golden texture.


    "This is your cultivator identity tablet." The middle-aged man handed the jade token to Lin Rui, his tone indifferent. "With this identity tablet, you can enter various mission platforms in the cultivation world to register or inquire about missions. However, as you know, the missions you can accept are quite limited without cultivation."


    Lin Rui received the jade token and felt its weight. Though it possessed no tangible power, it symbolized recognition of an identity, marking his official first step into the cultivation world.


    The middle-aged man continued, "You can start with low-level missions to accumulate experience and improve your cultivation. The mission hall will assign missions based on your cultivation level, and currently, the only missions you are eligible for are entry-level tasks."


    Lin Rui nodded, his heart filled with anticipation. Although he had not yet cultivated, with the unique family authorization, he had at least obtained the opportunity to embark on the path of cultivation.


    Next, the middle-aged man pressed several runes on the jade slip. A golden chip emerged from a formation slot and was embedded into the other end of the jade slip. This process appeared exceedingly formal as if it were activating Lin Rui''s identity.


    "This jade tablet will record your mission history. Upon mission completion, it will automatically update your achievements and experience until you are qualified to accept mid-level missions," the middle-aged man explained tersely. "It is also a symbol of your cultivator identity. Heavenly Law Divisions in other locations can use this to verify your identity."


    Lin Rui carefully examined the jade tablet, noticing no apparent cultivation level marker. However, in the center, a faint golden light point had materialized. The middle-aged man explained, "This light point will change as your cultivation level improves. If there is no progress for an extended period, it will gradually dim, and eventually, you will be unable to accept any missions."


    Lin Rui understood that this was not only a symbol of identity but also a form of intangible encouragement, urging him to strive to improve his cultivation constantly.


    "Alright, you are now a registered cultivator of Bamboo Cloud Town," the middle-aged man finally added. "After this, you can begin selecting missions suitable for you. There are no shortcuts on the path of cultivation. The more challenging the mission, the more it will temper your abilities."


    Lin Rui accepted the jade tablet, nodded, and approached the mission area. He did not rush to examine the missions but paused, taking in his surroundings.


    At the center of the mission hall stood a massive spirit crystal screen, upon which various mission postings scrolled, attracting many cultivators to stop and watch. Several staff members in Heavenly Law Division uniforms were busily answering cultivators'' questions and handling multiple affairs.


    Lin Rui''s gaze swept across the hall, noting the diverse attire of the cultivators, each reflecting their distinct identities and cultivation backgrounds. Some wore simple cloth robes, with plain storage packets hanging at their waists, their expressions serene, seemingly detached from material concerns, focused solely on inner cultivation. Others were adorned in opulent brocade robes with exquisite patterns and embedded gemstones, precious jade pendants hanging from their waists, exuding an air of wealth and nobility with every gesture. Still, others were clad in tight-fitting, sturdy outfits, muscles bulging, eyes sharp, clearly combat-oriented cultivators, radiating a rugged and fierce aura. And then there were those, even more distinct, dressed in peculiar garments, feathered crest, crown atop their heads, draped in animal hides, bone staffs in hand, bodies painted with vibrant pigments, exotically styled.


    Their demeanors were equally varied. Some had furrowed brows, seemingly lost in thought over some perplexing problem; others wore smiles, evidently having just completed a mission; some looked hurried, rushing to some destination; others carried themselves with haughty airs, clearly dismissive of everything around them.


    Several cultivators conversed in hushed tones in a corner of the hall.


    "Did you hear? A Level 3 demon beast has recently appeared in the Azure Mist Mountains. Several cultivators have already died," said a young cultivator clad in a blue robe.


    "Level 3 demon beast? That''s beyond what we can handle," another cultivator said, shaking his head. "Better to just stick to low-level missions."


    "You''re behind on the news," a female cultivator in red, close-fitting attire interjected. "I heard the major sects have already formed teams and set out."


    "Which sects?" the blue-robed cultivator asked.


    "Heaven''s weapon Sect, Azure Sky Sect, Violet Flame Valley," the red-clad woman replied, appearing smug. "These sects are decent mid-sized sects in Azure Mist Province. With them taking action, that demon beast won''t last long."


    "Even for sects, they must be careful," an elderly man said in a deep voice. "Level 3 demon beasts are not so easy to deal with."


    At the same time, some cultivators were trading spirit herbs on the other side of the hall.


    "This Purple Spirit Fungus of yours isn''t old enough. Eighty spirit stones at most," said a short, stout cultivator.


    "Eighty spirit stones? You''re too greedy!" a tall, thin cultivator retorted. "I risked my life to gather this from Black Wind Valley. It''s worth at least a hundred spirit stones."


    "Ninety spirit stones, no more," the stout cultivator insisted.


    "Ninety-five spirit stones, deal!" the tall, thin cultivator finally conceded.


    A shrewd glint flashed in the stout cultivator''s eyes. He retrieved ninety-five spirit stones from his storage pouch and handed them over.


    Lin Rui observed all of this with keen interest. He realized that the cultivation world was not only a place of rigorous practice but also a complex world filled with intrigue and interest exchange. Here, there were reclusive cultivators detached from worldly desires and merchants pursuing wealth, partners collaborating in teams, and rivals acting independently.


    Taking a deep breath, Lin Rui withdrew his gaze and walked towards the mission scroll area.


    There, row upon row of ancient wooden racks, hung hundreds of scrolls varying in size and material, some radiating faint spiritual light, others appearing ancient and worn as if they had been stored for a long time. The air was permeated with a faint scent of ink and a unique aroma as if each scroll concealed an unknown tale of adventure. Lin Rui''s heart stirred slightly, and scenes of various cultivators adventuring involuntarily surfaced in his mind.


    As he was about to examine the mission scrolls more closely, a middle-aged man in a grey-blue robe slowly approached. The man was not tall, but his eyes were piercingly bright, his temples slightly bulging, and a short beard adorned his chin, giving him a shrewd and capable air. A delicate golden sword pattern was embroidered on the cuffs of his robe, signifying that he was an executive of the Heavenly Law Division.


    "Young friend, are you here to accept a mission?" The middle-aged man approached Lin Rui and asked in a measured tone.


    Lin Rui nodded, handing over his identity jade token. "I am a newly registered cultivator and would like to see if any missions suit me."


    Executive Zhao received the jade token and examined it carefully. His eyes did not hold the same disdain as the registration clerk before but appeared somewhat cautious. He infused spiritual energy into the jade token, and Lin Rui''s information immediately materialized. Executive Zhao cleared his throat lightly, his tone becoming warmer. "So, you are a young friend from the Lin Family. My apologies for not recognizing you sooner." He returned the jade token to Lin Rui, bowing slightly with cupped hands. "My surname is Zhao. I am the mission executive here. You may call me Executive Zhao."


    Lin Rui returned the bow with cupped hands. "Executive Zhao."


    Executive Zhao nodded, gesturing towards the surrounding mission scrolls. "These missions are categorized by difficulty level, from low to high, in the order of Yellow, Profound, Earth, and Heaven ranks. Each rank is further divided into upper, middle, and lower grades. Given your current situation, you can only accept Yellow-rank, lower-grade missions."


    Lin Rui nodded, indicating his understanding. Following standard procedure, he could indeed only accept Yellow-rank, lower-grade missions. However, he secretly pondered that missions of this level were likely too simple and might not satisfy his yearning for cultivation.


    "Executive Zhao, what missions are available for me to accept?" Lin Rui asked, his tone still measured, but inwardly, he was already searching for more challenging opportunities.


    Executive Zhao smiled faintly, his gaze discerning some of Lin Rui''s thoughts. He pondered for a moment, then continued, "Young friend, no need to be impatient. Observing your jade token, I see that your cultivation level has yet to be revealed. By regulation, new cultivators accepting missions for the first time must undergo a spirit energy test to determine the scope of their eligible missions. However..." Executive Zhao''s gaze swept over Lin Rui as if making some assessment, "However since you have the Lin Family Elder''s guarantee, this test can be waived. It''s just..." He paused, "Today''s Yellow-rank, lower-grade missions have all been taken. Although Bamboo Cloud Town is small, there are many cultivators, and low-level missions are always in high demand. If you are not in a rush, you can return tomorrow. The Heavenly Law Division updates a batch of missions daily at 7-9 AM."


    Lin Rui''s brow furrowed slightly, a hint of disappointment in his heart. He had originally thought he could accept a mission today and begin his cultivation path, but he hadn''t expected to encounter this situation.


    He lowered his head slightly, concealing his inner disappointment, and asked, "Are there no other options?"


    Executive Zhao shook his head, indicating his helplessness. "Such are the regulations, and I can do nothing." Lin Rui''s expression remained unchanged, so he seemed to think of something else and changed the subject slightly, "However, I do have a private commission here. Perhaps you could consider it."


    "A private commission?" Lin Rui asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.


    Executive Zhao nodded. "These types of missions are not official missions issued by the Heavenly Law Division but commissions forwarded by cultivators or mortals. The mission content is usually more peculiar, and the difficulty and rewards are also not fixed." He paused, "If a young friend is interested, I can help you take a look."


    Lin Rui pondered briefly. Although he had some doubts in his mind, since it was an opportunity, he might as well give it a try. He nodded lightly. "Then I shall trouble Executive Zhao."


    Executive Zhao moved behind a nearby counter, rummaged momentarily, and retrieved a scroll, handing it to Lin Rui. "A pharmacy shopkeeper posts this mission. The task is to find a spirit herb called ''Pure Heart Grass.'' The reward is a vial of ''Qi Condensing Pills'' plus fifty spirit stones." He paused, his gaze slightly lowering. "However, this mission is somewhat unique, as ''Pure Heart Grass'' only grows deep within the Azure Mist Mountains, a place frequented by demon beasts, making it quite dangerous."


    Lin Rui accepted the scroll and scrutinized it. He noticed the scroll did not indicate a mission rank, only a brief description: "Suitable for cultivators with some experience." He couldn''t quite explain why, but this phrase stirred something within him. Although he lacked cultivation, he was keenly aware of his extraordinary observational and reasoning abilities. His past life experience led him to believe that even when facing demon beasts, he could rely on his wisdom and composure to find solutions.


    "Some experience..." Lin Rui mused inwardly. After a brief pause, he looked up at Executive Zhao. "What is so special about this ''Pure Heart Grass''? Why would the pharmacy shopkeeper personally issue a commission?"


    Executive Zhao said in a deep voice, "''Pure Heart Grass'' is an exceedingly rare spirit herb that can clear the mind and focus the spirit, aiding in cultivation. It is vital for cultivators to enter the path of cultivation. The pharmacy shopkeeper intends to use it to refine ''Pure Heart Pills,'' a pill that can help cultivators break through bottlenecks and advance their cultivation." As he spoke, a complex glint flashed in his eyes. "However, such spirit herbs only grow deep within the Azure Mist Mountains, which are perpetually infested with demon beasts, making the environment extremely dangerous."


    Lin Rui had already made his calculations. Although this mission carried considerable risk, the reward was generous. It would also provide an opportunity to learn about the Azure Mist Mountains, preparing him for his future cultivation.


    "I accept this mission," Lin Rui stated firmly, a determined glint in his eyes.


    A hint of appreciation flickered in Executive Zhao''s eyes. He nodded. "Since you have decided, I will register you for it." He took the scroll from Lin Rui, stamped a seal on it, and retrieved a jade token, handing it to Lin Rui. "This is the mission jade token. Take it to ''Hundred Herbs Hall'' to find Shopkeeper Wang. He will tell you the specific details of the mission."


    Lin Rui accepted the jade token, thanked him, and turned to leave the mission hall.


    Executive Zhao watched Lin Rui''s departing figure, stroking his beard, and murmured to himself, "That Lin Family kid... he''s got something about him. I hope he can complete the mission smoothly and not disappoint my expectations."


    Leaving the Heavenly Law Division, Lin Rui did not rush to "Hundred Herbs Hall." Instead, he strolled along the street, contemplating his heart. Bamboo Cloud Town was the capital of Azure Mist Province. Perfect. He could take this opportunity to familiarize himself with the surroundings, which might prove helpful for his cultivation path.


    "Looks like today will be reconnaissance then," Lin Rui mused inwardly. "Well, the mission''s accepted anyway; no need to rush."

 Chapter 8: Swaying Bamboo Shadows, Marketplace Ambiance of Immortals

    Stepping out of the Heavenly Law Division, the afternoon sunlight bathed Lin Rui, dispelling some of the coolness from within the hall. Looking up, the azure sky was washed by spirit spring water, clear and transparent, as if no worldly disturbances could stain its purity. Several white clouds drifted leisurely by, their shapes sometimes resembling drawn bows, sometimes divine beasts soaring, moving with the wind, ever-changing. Lin Rui couldn''t help but chuckle. This scene was reminiscent of legendary spirit beasts chasing clouds at the heavens'' edge.


    He strolled along the street, passing through the bustling crowd and brushing shoulders with passersby. Unlike the morning''s tranquility, Bamboo Cloud Town was now fully awake, unfolding a lively, vibrant tapestry of marketplace life. Along both sides of the street, shops of various kinds displayed distinctive signboards, the atmosphere both boisterous and orderly. Peddlers'' cries, haggling voices, the clang of hammers, and the hum of alchemic furnaces intertwined, merging into a unique marketplace symphony full of vigor.


    Before the spirit herb shops lining the road, specimens of various spirit herbs hung on display, emitting waves of delicate fragrance, as if each herb possessed its unique aura. Inside, several cultivators were gathered around counters, arguing with shopkeepers about the age and efficacy of certain spirit herbs, expressions on their faces seemingly growing more serious due to this "efficacy dispute." Lin Rui paused, observing, his keen eyes capturing several focal points of their discussions, including some rare medicinal materials. He quietly noted them, considering they might be helpful in future missions.


    He overheard one cultivator mention, "This medicinal material isn''t old enough. The Myriad Medicines Alliance standards require three years before it can be inventoried." Another cultivator retorted with dissatisfaction, "You''re right, but I heard their recent procurements haven''t been smooth. Probably no one''s checking that strictly."


    These words piqued Lin Rui''s curiosity. These cultivators were quite knowledgeable about a place called the "Myriad Medicines Alliance," and this alliance seemed to hold a pivotal position in spirit herb transactions.


    Further ahead, he passed by talisman shops. Various talismans were displayed in the windows. Some were painted with fiery symbols representing flames, others depicted icy patterns of frost, and still others bore complex symbols he couldn''t decipher, exuding an air of mystery. Inside one shop, a young female cultivator was arguing with the Shopkeeper about using "Gale Runes."


    Lin Rui overheard the conversation inside through the window. "The talisman masters of the Thunder Light Sect have said that Gale Runes shouldn''t be drawn like this. Power will dissipate." These words left him slightly puzzled. He thought this female cultivator seemed connected to a place called the "Thunder Light Sect." These talismans were not merely commodities. They seemed to have some more profound doctrine or rules behind them.


    Next, Lin Rui noticed a wooden tablet hanging on a weapon crafting shop wall, engraved with a specific symbol and inscribed with the words "Heavenly Craft Guild - partner store." Lin Rui''s heart stirred. This "Heavenly Craft Guild" was related to this shop in some way, perhaps a platform providing resources for weapon refiners.


    The interior of the weapon crafting shop was an even more fervent scene. The "clang, clang, clang" of hammers and the roar of furnace fire intertwined, and a scorching aura permeated the surroundings. A robust man, bare-chested and muscle-bound, was wielding a hammer, forcefully forging a new weapon, his face full of concentration and satisfaction. The smell of iron rust in the air and the aura of spirit artifacts mingled, giving a strong sense of power.


    Lin Rui''s gaze swept over, and he saw several weapons gleaming with light placed in a corner. Nearby, several cultivators were discussing in hushed tones, "These swords are the Heavenly Craft Guild''s latest releases. I heard they are all made using mortal rank, middle-grade ores. Stable energy, suitable for Level five cultivators." These words made it even clearer to Lin Rui that these so-called "Heavenly Craft Guilds" were closely related to weapon refining and cultivators'' weapon needs. Although he didn''t understand weapon refining, these words already revealed deeper underlying connections.


    Beyond these shops closely related to cultivation, there were also spirit tea houses, taverns, inns, and other places providing rest and socialization. Inside a tea house, several cultivators were seated around a table, sipping fragrant tea and discussing the strange and interesting things of the cultivation world. A snippet of conversation reached Lin Rui''s ears, immediately capturing his attention:


    "Did you hear? An ancient cultivator''s cave dwelling suddenly appeared deep within the Azure Mist Mountains, said to contain countless treasures and mysterious items!" A cultivator said in a low voice, his tone tinged with impatience.


    "Really? How do you know?" Another cultivator seemed skeptical.


    "True! I''ve already seen several groups of cultivators rushing that way!" Excitement gleamed in the speaker''s eyes. "Should we also go try our luck?"


    Another older cultivator shook his head, revealing a hint of indifference. "Such things are beyond the likes of us unaffiliated cultivators. Better to cultivate steadily and improve ourselves." His eyes conveyed a slight detachment from the "ancient cave dwelling" rumors. This kind of "windfall fortune" opportunity did not seem worth pursuing for him.


    The tavern was a scene of boisterous revelry. Cultivators raised cups and exchanged toasts, chatting animatedly about upcoming hunting expeditions. A cultivator with a full beard stood up, raised his wine bowl, and shouted, "Cheers! Wishing our ''Hunter''s Guild'' expedition a roaring success!"


    "Cheers!" Other cultivators echoed in response, emptying the bowls of wine in one gulp. The atmosphere was fervent, and everyone was filled with anticipation for adventure.


    Lin Rui''s gaze lightly swept over, noting that these cultivators wore various weapons at their waists¡ªsome swords, some sabers, and some adorned with magic tools of peculiar shapes. Excitement and anticipation were evident on their faces. They looked forward to the upcoming adventure, brimming with longing as if it were a hunt destined for victory, and the rewards of victory were precisely the glory and power they craved.


    Hearing them mention the "Hunter''s Guild," Lin Rui''s heart stirred slightly. He didn''t fully grasp what these cultivators were discussing. Still, from their atmosphere and expressions, it seemed to be an essential cultivator organization or something akin to an elite group whose members jointly participated in meaningful missions and adventures. His thoughts drifted slightly, and he couldn''t help but ponder about the various cultivator groups and organizations in this world and how they were related to the path of cultivation.


    At the inn''s entrance, several cultivators in uniform stood guard, responsible for maintaining the inn''s security. They occasionally scanned the cultivators and merchants entering and exiting the street.


    As Lin Rui passed an inn, he heard melodious zither music drifting from within. Curious, he paused and peered inside through the window. He saw a woman in white robes sitting in the lobby''s center, lightly stroking the zither strings. The zither music poured out like flowing water, sometimes soaring and impassioned, sometimes lingering and melodious, as if leading one into a transcendent realm.


    The surrounding cultivators listened quietly, expressions of rapture on their faces. Although Lin Rui didn''t understand music theory, he could feel the extraordinary artistic conception contained within the zither music. It was not merely a display of skill but a release of some form of energy, a unique expression beyond a cultivator''s cultivation level.


    "This is the cultural life of the cultivation world, then... seems quite refined," Lin Rui mused inwardly.


    He continued walking forward. The ratio of cultivators to mortals on the street became more balanced. Cultivators were busy with trading and cultivation, while mortals bustled in the marketplaces, their lives complete and orderly. As Lin Rui passed a stall, an elderly vendor sold candied haws. He stopped and bought a skewer for himself.


    "These candied haws are made with spirit fruits. Eating them can strengthen your body, improve your health, and prolong your life," the old man said with a smile.


    Lin Rui looked at the candied haws, quite tempted to try them, but after considering he didn''t have earning capacity yet, he could only regretfully leave. He continued walking until he arrived at a small plaza. In the center of the plaza stood an ancient stone stele, upon which the history of Bamboo Cloud Town was inscribed.


    He approached for a closer look. The stone stele detailed the origins of Bamboo Cloud Town: a thousand years ago, this place was just an ordinary village until the True Person Bamboo Cloud came here and discovered a source of abundant spiritual energy. He then founded a sect here, establishing the Bamboo Cloud Sect. Bamboo Cloud Town gradually prospered from this, becoming the critical cultivation and trade center it is today.


    Standing before the stone stele, Lin Rui couldn''t help but sigh inwardly: this small town concealed such a profound history and foundation.


    Circumnavigating the stele, he continued, discovering that many cultivators were gathered around the plaza, setting up stalls. Lin Rui''s gaze occasionally swept over the dazzling array of shops and stalls, attempting to find items that could help him improve his cultivation. Just as he passed a stall laden with various weapon crafting materials, suddenly¡ªhis steps faltered slightly, his gaze involuntarily arrested by something ahead.


    A familiar figure appeared in his field of vision. The person was standing before a spirit material shop not far away, a touch of indifference and coldness between his brows. His gaze swept over the surrounding spirit materials as if they were all irrelevant to him. A flicker of surprise flashed in Lin Rui''s eyes, but he quickly suppressed it. His breath caught slightly, his body seeming to stiffen for a fleeting moment against his will.


    That person was his... no, the original Lin Rui''s former fianc¨¦¡ªWang Ruohan.


    Lin Rui''s heart suddenly raced, and memories flooded his mind. Wang Ruohan, the Wang Family''s favored son, with profound cultivation and unparalleled handsomeness.


    Wang Ruohan seemed oblivious to Lin Rui''s presence. He was bent over, examining a spirit material in his hand, his expression focused, seemingly wholly immersed in his world.


    Once upon a time, they had been inseparable. In Lin Rui''s childhood, he had always followed behind Wang Ruohan, listening to him explain the secrets of cultivation and watching his sword dance amidst the bamboo groves. Back then, Wang Ruohan''s eyes were always filled with smiles, and his voice was always so gentle as if everything in this world deserved his tenderness.


    However, as they grew older, the gap between them widened. Lin Rui''s cultivation talent was mediocre, consistently failing to break through bottlenecks, while Wang Ruohan soared ahead, becoming the leading figure of the younger generation in the Wang Family. Wang Ruohan''s attitude changed accordingly, the former intimacy gradually turning into distance and indifference.


    "Rui, your meridians... perhaps are more suited to the auxiliary cultivation path," Wang Ruohan had once said to him, his tone tinged with regret, but even more so, with an undisguised aloofness.


    Lin Rui clearly remembered how he had forced down the bitterness in his heart and nodded, indicating his understanding. From that moment on, he knew that between him and Wang Ruohan, there was already an insurmountable chasm.


    Later, although their engagement had initially been a political marriage between the two families, the Wang Family still used "incompatible aptitude" as grounds to dissolve the engagement, and the Lin Family agreed. Wang Ruohan expressed nothing about it, only saying faintly, "Perhaps it is for the best."


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    At that moment, Lin Rui''s world completely collapsed.


    However, the Lin Rui of today was no longer the mediocre youth who had suffered cold shoulders and disdain. He was Lin Rui, a private investigator from Los Angeles, Neon Dive''s top gogo dancer!


    "Humph! Although this Wang Ruohan is not that Wang Ruohan. But you''re both scum. Lin Rui, oh Lin Rui, seems we''ve both been hurt by scum men with the same surname." Lin Rui calmly calculated how to avenge himself, and the original Lin Rui thought that a small revenge act would satisfy him.


    "Isn''t this young master Wang? What a coincidence to run into you here." Lin Rui''s voice was neither loud nor soft, just enough for the surrounding cultivators picking out spirit materials to hear. While saying "coincidence," a sliver of cold playfulness flashed in his mind: "Old and new grudges, settled together."


    Wang Ruohan heard the voice, his brow furrowing slightly as he slowly turned around. He had initially assumed it was some ignorant fool daring to disturb his selection of spirit materials, but when he saw the newcomer was Lin Rui, a flicker of surprise, almost imperceptible, still flashed in his pupils. However, this surprise was fleeting, instantly replaced by a condescending indifference, as if looking at an insignificant ant.


    "Lin Rui?" Wang Ruohan''s voice was flat, devoid of any emotion as if speaking to an irrelevant passerby. "You''re still alive? I thought it was just some gossip rumor circulating in the streets!"


    "Alive? As you put it, my being dead would have been more... normal." Lin Rui sneered inwardly. As a private investigator in his past life, his forte was reading people''s hearts. He keenly caught a hint of sourness and... jealousy in Wang Ruohan''s words?


    "Thanks to you, still can''t die," Lin Rui shrugged, his tone as light as if discussing the weather, completely ignoring Wang Ruohan''s mockery. "What''s wrong? Seeing me alive, young Master Wang seems... disappointed? Could you still keep thinking about that bit of ''affection'' from back then, wanting to rekindle our former bond?"


    He deliberately emphasized "affection," his gaze also turned ambiguous as if hinting at something.


    Hearing these words, the surrounding cultivators turned their gazes over one after another, their faces revealing expressions of gossip-fueled intrigue.


    "What? They two used to have ''affection''?"


    "No way, right? How could young master Wang have taken a fancy to that Lin Family waste?"


    "You wouldn''t know, but I heard they used to be engaged..."


    "......"


    Whispers rippled through the crowd, and Wang Ruohan''s expression instantly darkened. He hadn''t expected Lin Rui to be so bold, daring to expose his past publicly.


    "Lin Rui, what nonsense are you spouting!" Wang Ruohan scoffed coldly, trying to conceal his embarrassment. "There is nothing between you and me anymore! Don''t be delusional!"


    "Is that so?" Lin Rui smiled noncommittally. He slowly approached Wang Ruohan, his eyes carrying a hint of playfulness and provocation. "If that''s the case, why bother with the cold mockery? Why even care whether I live or die? Could it be... young master Wang, are you afraid of something? Afraid of me... stealing your limelight? Or afraid others might know about our past relationship?"


    He deliberately softened his voice on the words "past relationship" but made sure Wang Ruohan could hear him.


    Wang Ruohan''s face became even more gloomy. He stared fixedly at Lin Rui, a flash of anger in his eyes, but he quickly suppressed it. He knew he couldn''t lose his composure in front of Lin Rui, or he would only become a laughingstock for the onlookers.


    "Lin Rui, it seems you are different from before. You''ve become quite the silver tongue," Wang Ruohan said coldly. "However, do you think this will change anything? The gap between you and me is already as vast as cloud and mud. Even if you''ve ''returned from the dead,'' you''re nothing but linger on in a wretched state at death''s door. Oh right," he suddenly chuckled dismissively, as if recalling something, his gaze falling on Lin Rui''s empty hands. "You wouldn''t be thinking of buying spirit materials here, would you? With your current ''cultivation,'' I''m afraid you can''t even afford the lowest-grade mortal-rank materials, can you? Want me to ''condescend'' and give you some charity?"


    He deliberately emphasized "cultivation" and "charity," his tone filled with mockery and disdain.


    Hearing these words, the surrounding cultivators also glanced at Lin Rui, their eyes tinged with pity and contempt.


    "This Lin Rui is truly overestimating himself, daring to challenge young master Wang."


    "Exactly. Who does he think he is? ''Returned from the dead''¡ªI see him as nothing but a joke!"


    "......"


    Lin Rui listened to the surrounding murmurs, but his expression remained unchanged. He had long anticipated Wang Ruohan''s reaction and had prepared his response.


    "Whether I can afford it or not is none of the young master Wang''s concern," Lin Rui retorted indifferently, his gaze instead settling on a purple crystal stone on the counter. "Shopkeeper, I''ll take this amethyst crystal."


    The amethyst crystal was deep purple throughout, its surface covered in fine texture, subtly radiating a rich undulation of spiritual energy. It was no ordinary item.


    The spirit material shopkeeper, a stout middle-aged man, had initially intended to watch the show from the sidelines as Lin Rui and Wang Ruohan clashed. Still, he hadn''t expected Lin Rui to suddenly speak up about buying the amethyst crystal.


    He was momentarily stunned, then flashed a professional smile. "This customer has a discerning eye. This amethyst crystal is our shop''s treasure, mined deep within the Azure Mist Mountains. It contains pure spiritual energy and is excellent material for refining thunder-attribute magic artifacts..."


    "Hold on!" Wang Ruohan suddenly interrupted the Shopkeeper, his gaze fixed on the amethyst crystal, a subtle glint of shrewdness in his eyes. "The quality of this amethyst crystal is this high! If refined into a suitable magic artifact, it will elevate my strength to the next level! No, I must have it!"


    He had been searching for high-quality thunder-attribute spirit material to refine a magic artifact. He hadn''t expected to encounter it here. "Unfortunately, recent cultivation expenses have been too high, and I am a bit strapped for cash... However, dealing with a waste like Lin Rui doesn''t require spending money."


    "This..." The Shopkeeper immediately revealed a troubled expression. He naturally recognized Wang Ruohan, knowing that this young master of the Wang Family was not to be trifled with. However, Lin Rui spoke first and the Lin Family was one of the strongest families in Azure Mist Province, and they were also not to be trifled with. "These two, I can''t afford to offend either of them... However, Wang Ruohan is probably rich. I heard Lin Rui is a peripheral figure in the family. Let me think about who to favor first..."


    "What? Is young master unable to afford the price?" Wang Ruohan coldly swept a glance at the Shopkeeper, his tone laced with displeasure. He didn''t threaten to seize it by force but used "unable to afford the price" to counter-question, showcasing his wealth and putting pressure on the Shopkeeper.


    "No, no, not at all," the Shopkeeper hastily shook his head, beads of sweat appearing on his forehead. "It''s just that this customer came first..."


    "First come, first served?" Wang Ruohan chuckled dismissively, a hint of playfulness in his eyes. "In the cultivation world, strength is revered, and the biggest fish is the rule! However, this young master is not one to be unreasonable."


    He turned his head to look at Lin Rui, his gaze filled with provocation. "Lin Rui, if you know what''s good for you, obediently step aside, lest you invite humiliation upon yourself! This amethyst crystal is not something a waste like you is worthy of possessing."


    He didn''t directly offer to double the price but used "strength is revered" to suppress Lin Rui while implying he would be "reasonable. " This "reason" was clearly based on his own strength.


    Hearing these words, the surrounding cultivators turned their gazes towards Lin Rui, expressions of anticipation for a good show on their faces. They all wanted to know how this "resurrected" Lin Family waste would respond to the provocation from the Wang Family''s young master.


    Lin Rui looked at Wang Ruohan, a playful smile curving his lips. "Young master Wang certainly carries himself with great prestige, but... are you sure you want to compete with me?" He paused, deliberately raising his voice. "Don''t forget, I am the one who was ''resurrected by the ancestor manifestation.'' Perhaps... the ancestor is still watching from above. If you forcefully seize my things, aren''t you afraid of incurring the ancestor''s wrath?"


    He deliberately emphasized the four words "ancestor manifestation," his tone laced with a hint of jest.


    The surrounding cultivators erupted in an uproar upon hearing these words.


    "Lin Rui is too audacious, daring to invoke the ancestor to pressure Wang Ruohan!"


    "But what he said seems to make sense. What if the ancestor did manifest..."


    "......"


    Wang Ruohan''s face slightly darkened. He hadn''t expected Lin Rui to use the "ancestor" as leverage. Although he didn''t believe in any "ancestor manifestation," it was better to err on caution with such matters. What if he angered the Lin Family ancestor? He would be in deep trouble. "Damn it, this kid is resorting to such underhanded tactics! But how could I be intimidated by him?"


    "Lin Rui, stop using the ancestor to scare me! And we, the Wang Family, have no reason to fear your Lin Family''s ancestor!" Wang Ruohan forcefully suppressed the apprehension in his heart, his tone remaining cold. "This amethyst crystal, I am determined to buy! I''d like to see what your Lin Family ancestor can do to me!"


    Although he said so, his heart had already begun to waver. He decided not to confront Lin Rui directly and to think of a way to deal with him after returning home.


    "Is that so? Then go ahead and try," Lin Rui smiled nonchalantly. He turned to the Shopkeeper. "Shopkeeper, how much for this amethyst crystal?"


    "This..." The Shopkeeper hesitated for a moment, then quoted a price, "Five hundred spirit stones."


    "Five hundred spirit stones?" Lin Rui raised an eyebrow but didn''t immediately say he would buy it. Instead, he changed the subject, looking at Wang Ruohan. "Young master Wang, you also heard five hundred spirit stones. Didn''t you say ''strength is revered''? What, now you don''t even understand the principle of ''highest bidder wins''?"


    He paused deliberately, giving Wang Ruohan time to react, and then continued, "How about this? Since young master Wang wants this amethyst crystal so badly and is so powerful, why don''t you offer a price? I, on the other hand, will reluctantly ''compete fairly'' with you."


    His words, while seemingly giving Wang Ruohan a way out, were roasting him over a fire.


    The surrounding cultivators erupted into an uproar upon hearing this.


    "This Lin Rui is cunning."


    "Although he doesn''t have spirit stones, he can skillfully push Wang Ruohan into this predicament."


    "I heard young master Wang has been spending a lot of spirit stones on cultivation recently and is indeed a bit strapped for cash."


    "This is going to be good. I wonder how Wang Ruohan will respond."


    "......"


    Wang Ruohan''s face instantly turned ashen. He hadn''t expected Lin Rui to be so shameless, daring to expose his financial straits publicly. He had recently spent many spirit stones on cultivation and was currently short on funds. But how could he admit this in public?


    He stared fixedly at Lin Rui, a sinister flicker in his eyes, but he quickly concealed it. He knew he couldn''t lose his temper now, or he would only make Lin Rui even more smug. Moreover, with so many cultivators watching, wouldn''t he become a laughingstock if he lacked even this much composure?


    "Lin Rui, you..." Wang Ruohan forcefully suppressed the fire in his heart, saying in an icy tone, "Are you deliberately provoking me?"


    "Provoking?" Lin Rui blinked innocently. "Young master Wang, what are you talking about? I am merely stating the truth. Could it be young master Wang can''t even come up with five hundred spirit stones? If so, then let''s forget about it, lest you disgrace the Wang Family''s name."


    He deliberately emphasized the words "disgrace the Wang Family''s name," his tone filled with mockery.


    Wang Ruohan''s expression grew even more unpleasant. He clenched his fists tightly, his fingernails digging deep into his palms. He desperately wanted to rush forward and tear Lin Rui to pieces, but he knew he couldn''t. He had to maintain his composure and uphold his image. More importantly, he couldn''t let Lin Rui''s scheme succeed.


    "Lin Rui, stop being so smug!" Wang Ruohan took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. "This amethyst crystal, this young master is determined to have! However, I am indeed a bit short on funds right now. How about this: I will pay half as a deposit first and give you the rest after I return home to retrieve spirit stones."


    He decided first to placate Lin Rui and stall for time, then think of a way to deal with him after returning home. At the same time, he also wanted to take this opportunity to test Lin Rui''s bottom line.


    "Deposit?" Lin Rui laughed, doubling over with mirth. "Young master Wang, are you joking with me? Who pays a deposit when buying something? Besides, why should I trust you? What if you go back and deny everything? Who would I reason with? Surely you don''t expect me to go to your Wang Family''s ancestor for judgment?"


    He mentioned "ancestor" once again, his tone even more playful and unrestrained.


    The surrounding cultivators could no longer restrain themselves, bursting into laughter.


    "Hahahaha... this Lin Rui is too wicked, actually making fun of the Wang Family ancestor!"


    "Wang Ruohan has kicked a steel board, being played around by Lin Rui."


    "......"


    Wang Ruohan''s face had become extremely unsightly. He felt his cheeks burning as if he had been slapped hard several times. In all his life, he had never suffered such humiliation!


    "Lin Rui, don''t push it too far!" Wang Ruohan could no longer endure Lin Rui''s humiliation and roared.


    "Push it too far?" The smile on Lin Rui''s face vanished instantly, replaced by an icy chill. "Wang Ruohan, who exactly is pushing it too far? Back then, you broke faith and abandoned our engagement for your own future. Have you ever thought about the words ''pushing it too far''? Now, you are again bullying others by relying on your power, trying to seize what I have taken a fancy to. Have you ever considered the words ''pushing it too far''?"


    He pressed forward step by step, his gaze sharp as a knife, his voice also becoming low and cold. "Let me tell you, Wang Ruohan, from today onwards, I, Lin Rui, am no longer someone you can bully at will! What you owe me, I will get it back, little by little, all of it! This amethyst crystal is just the beginning!"


    He ignored Wang Ruohan, turned to the Shopkeeper, and said, "Shopkeeper, I don''t want this amethyst crystal anymore. Give it to young master Wang. Consider it... my ''charity'' to him."


    Then, amidst Wang Ruohan''s ashen face and the shocked, intrigued, and gloating gazes of the surrounding cultivators, he strode away.

 Chapter 9: Mission Commences, Waves Rise Anew

    Lin Rui, task jade token in hand, entered Hundred Herbs Hall. It was a pharmacy with an unassuming exterior yet filled with ancient charm. A faint fragrance of medicinal herbs permeated the air. Hanging on the walls were several scrolls depicting the growth of spirit herbs, while various precious spirit medicine bottles and jars were neatly arranged on the counters. At the center of the shop sat a middle-aged man, approximately fifty years of age, with a benevolent countenance but remarkably sharp eyes. This was none other than Shopkeeper Wang, the proprietor of Hundred Herbs Hall.


    Upon seeing Lin Rui enter, Shopkeeper Wang''s gaze swept over the jade token. Smiling, he rose and gestured for Lin Rui to take a seat. "You must be the cultivator who accepted the Pure Heart Grass mission?" He beckoned Lin Rui to a chair nearby. "Though you appear young in years, and your cultivation level is...unseen, Deacon Zhao must have his reasons for assigning you this task."


    Lin Rui nodded slightly. Though still harboring doubts, he refrained from further questioning. It seemed Deacon Zhao''s authority carried considerable weight.


    Shopkeeper Wang sighed softly as if contemplating how to explain the mission''s peculiar nature. "This mission... has been undertaken by cultivators before." He paused for a moment, seemingly searching for the right words. "Pure Heart Grass'' is precious, but not every cultivator can complete this task. It grows only in areas deep within the Azure Mist Mountains, where spiritual energy is exceptionally dense. Such places are brimming with spiritual energy and highly conducive to cultivation, but consequently, they occasionally attract the presence of demon beasts." He raised his eyes to meet Lin Rui''s, a hint of helplessness within them. "However, demon beast appearances are infrequent. In truth, it is more often external cultivators, lost and straying into that region, whose ensuing panic creates tense situations. You should not encounter too much trouble as long as you act cautiously."


    Upon hearing this, the unease in Lin Rui''s heart noticeably eased. The mission''s risks were not as dire as initially conceived. He furrowed his brow, then inquired, "Even so, why did Deacon Zhao still decide to assign me this mission? I possess no cultivation, and the task seems of considerable difficulty. Is this not... unsuitable?"


    Shopkeeper Wang seemed to have anticipated this question, a faint smile gracing his lips. "From my observation just now, I could discern that you possess exceptional discernment, a quick mind, and the ability to respond calmly in the face of events ¨C qualities far surpassing some cultivators with high cultivation levels but a dearth of practical experience. The crux of this mission lies in adaptability and wisdom, not solely in cultivation prowess." He paused, his gaze deepening. "It is highly probable that Deacon Zhao recognized these abilities within you, believing you capable of addressing the mission''s uncertainties with intelligence and composure."


    He continued, his tone imbued with subtle nuance, "In fact, a cultivator did accept this mission previously but deemed it too simple midway and chose to abandon it. Therefore, you can rest assured that this task will not exceed your capacity."


    Lin Rui, his doubts now completely dispelled, left Hundred Herbs Hall. The mission, while challenging, was not insurmountable; instead, it presented an excellent opportunity to hone his abilities.


    "Then I accept this mission." Lin Rui declared with resolve, determination flickering in his eyes.


    Shopkeeper Wang nodded a hint of gratification in his smile. "Good that you''ve decided. This task requires a four-person team, so you''ll need to wait a few days for the other cultivators to assemble. I''ll make the arrangements. Once everything is prepared, return to Hundred Herbs Hall in seven days to find me, and we can set off together then."


    Lin Rui nodded, having already formulated a plan in his mind. "Understood. I''ll return in seven days."


    Turning to depart from Hundred Herbs Hall, Lin Rui had a new course of action in mind. With the mission settled, he could use these next few days to familiarize himself with the surroundings of Bamboo Cloud Town and simultaneously enhance his cultivation level, preparing for the upcoming task.


    As Lin Rui exited Hundred Herbs Hall, he suddenly felt inclined to take a different route. Since it was still early, he might wander a bit and see if anything of note caught his eye. Thus, he turned the corner and headed down another path toward the Lin Residence.


    The Lin Residence was situated in the western suburbs of Bamboo Cloud Town, and this path meandered through a tranquil and secluded verdant bamboo forest. Trees with luxuriant foliage lined the path, casting deep bamboo shadows on the ground. As Lin Rui strolled along, his mood gradually relaxed. Unknowingly, his steps led him to the vicinity of the family''s Spirit Tea Garden.


    The Spirit Cloud Tea Garden was one of the Lin Family''s most prized assets. Each leaf was meticulously tended by the family''s most skilled spirit plant masters. The garden''s core product ¨C the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout ¨C was renowned as a top-grade mortal rank spirit herb, exceptionally rare, and practically a legend within Azure Mist Province. Its unique aroma and spiritual energy attracted countless cultivators to purchase it. Especially for cultivators at the "Meridian Awakening" stage, the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout was invaluable, capable of significantly accelerating cultivation speed within a short time, and indeed a treasure pursued by all cultivators.


    The Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout''s growth environment was exceedingly demanding, with only the Lin Family''s unique Spirit Tea Garden able to provide such suitable conditions. To ensure its high quality and purity, the Lin Family relied on specific soil and the power of formation masters to maintain this unique growing environment. Day after day, formation masters cast spells, using formations to regulate the climate and spiritual energy density, providing the optimal growing conditions for every spirit sprout.


    The garden''s climate was shrouded in a misty haze akin to a celestial realm. This mist was not naturally occurring but instead resulted from "climate formations" meticulously created by formation masters. By adjusting air humidity and temperature, the formations allowed the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts to grow peacefully in this spirit-rich environment, shielded from the interference of external weather changes. More importantly, the spiritual energy density within the tea garden rivaled that of any spirit field, unmatched even by famous sects of Azure Mist Province. It was precisely for this reason that the spiritual energy contained within the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout was exceptionally potent, enabling cultivators to rapidly boost their cultivation speed after consumption, especially providing immense benefits to cultivators in the "Meridian Awakening" stage.


    Therefore, the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout was not merely a precious spirit herb but also a symbol of the Lin Family''s profound foundation, arguably one of the family''s "lifelines." In Azure Mist Province, only the Lin Family could cultivate this spirit tea, and its yield was exceedingly scarce. Each year''s production of spirit tea underwent rigorous screening and inspection. The family''s high echelon regarded this spirit tea garden as their most vital secret. Outsiders were strictly forbidden from approaching these precious spirit sprouts, and even within the family, special authorization was required to enter the garden for picking or processing.


    Guardian formations meticulously protected every Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout in the garden. The operation of each formation relied on careful adjustment and maintenance by the clan''s formation masters. High-intensity defensive arrays surrounded the area, protecting the garden from damage or theft. Simultaneously, elite cultivators dispatched by the family rotated on duty, rigorously monitoring every inch of land within the garden to ensure absolute security.


    Every leaf of the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprout crystallized the Lin Family''s generations of effort and wisdom. It was a symbol of the Lin Family''s wealth and the essence of the family''s heritage.


    At this moment, Lin Rui vaguely discerned figures in the distance of the Spirit Cloud Tea Garden. It seemed many family disciples were gathering there. Further off, he also noticed a middle-aged man dressed in Lin Family robes, conversing in hushed tones with a group of disciples, evidently dealing with some urgent matter. Lin Rui''s heart stirred. He lifted his feet and approached, wanting to see what had occurred.


    He softly approached the tea garden entrance and encountered a guard disciple standing by the gate, his expression rather somber. Curiosity piqued, Lin Rui stepped forward to converse with him.


    "Brother, what''s going on? Has something happened?" Lin Rui asked with a smile, relaxed and natural tone.


    The guard disciple looked up at him with a hesitant expression, clearly not intending to disclose anything readily. However, recognizing Lin Rui ¨C this family scion who had recently garnered considerable attention due to the "Ancestor Manifestation" incident ¨C the guard disciple paused in silence for a moment, then replied in a low voice, "Young Master Lin, there''s been a bit of trouble at the Spirit Tea Garden. Recently, the Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts cultivated in the garden were stolen. Harvesting and management of the entire tea garden have been affected."


    "Stolen?" Lin Rui raised an eyebrow, repeating in disbelief, "Is this spirit tea very valuable?"


    "Of course." The guard disciple nodded. "After each harvest, the family strictly inspects the quality and purity of the spirit tea. Although the primary purpose of the spirit tea is for internal cultivation within the family, if external cultivators wish to obtain even a tael or two, they usually need to pay exorbitant spirit stones or even rely on connections with sects or other powerful factions to acquire it. Moreover, the transactions of these spirit teas are minimal. Each batch is as precious as a treasure and is never easily released into the market. Therefore, the theft of Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts is almost equivalent to a major incident that shakes the Lin Family''s foundation. If word of this gets out, it''s feared it will trigger unforeseen consequences, and the family''s reputation and interests will face immense damage."


    The guard disciple''s expression grew even more solemn. "Moreover, the stolen spirit tea isn''t just from this batch; it also seems to involve management issues within the garden."


    Hearing this, Lin Rui''s questions deepened. He turned his gaze to the distance, seeing Second Uncle Lin Tiande in hushed discussion with several cultivators, the atmosphere appearing somewhat uneasy. Lin Rui couldn''t help but furrow his brow. "How are the family elders handling this?"


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    "The family elders have already been informed and are investigating," the guard disciple replied. "However, there are no clear leads at present. Management of the Spirit Tea Garden has always been stringent, and incidents are rare, so everyone is perplexed. It''s said that Elder Tiande is personally in charge of handling this matter, which is why he is here with other cultivators, discussing countermeasures."


    Lin Rui nodded slightly, a hint of intrigue rising in his heart. He knew that the theft of Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts, one of the Lin Family''s most vital cultivation resources, was no trivial matter. Lin Tiande, as a family elder, was usually reliable, but facing such a significant incident, the pressure and anxiety he must be under were palpable. Furthermore, power struggles were incessant within the Lin Family, and every theft incident often involved complex games of vested interests.


    Just as Lin Rui prepared to press further with his questions, he suddenly felt a sharp gaze cast from afar. Following the line of sight, he saw Lin Tiande standing at the far end of the tea garden, his brow slightly furrowed, his eyes carrying a hint of displeasure.


    Lin Rui was momentarily taken aback, inwardly thinking, "This is not good." Sure enough, Lin Tiande lightly waved his hand, beckoning in Lin Rui''s direction.


    "Lin Rui, come over here." Lin Tiande''s voice was not loud but carried an air of authority.


    Lin Rui sighed inwardly, muttering, "Knew, I shouldn''t have come to join the commotion." However, he knew that he could only obediently go over no matter how unwilling he was.


    He put away his smile, adopting an obedient demeanor, walked up to Lin Tiande, and respectfully bowed his head, "Second Uncle."


    "You brat, isn''t there a cultivation assessment at home in a month? Why are you running over here to join the excitement? Instead of cultivating properly, if you fail the assessment, your chance to turn things around will be gone." Lin Tiande frowned, his tone unkind.


    Lin Rui lowered his head slightly, a sly smile in his eyes. "Second, Uncle, it''s precisely because I''m concerned about the assessment that I came out. Look, haven''t I already registered my cultivator identity?" As he spoke, he took out his cultivator identity jade token from his bosom and waved it in front of Lin Tiande.


    Lin Tiande looked at Lin Rui, his brow slightly raised, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. "You, a cultivator without cultivation, actually managed to get a mission?" He was somewhat doubtful, "Even if you registered, you shouldn''t be able to receive any valuable missions, right?"


    Lin Rui chuckled inwardly but maintained an obedient demeanor on the surface, casually retorting, "I accepted a mission from Hundred Herbs Hall, setting off in seven days. It''s quite a mission." He deliberately drew out the words "Hundred Herbs Hall," imbuing them with a hint of mystery.


    Lin Tiande was taken aback, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. He hadn''t expected Lin Rui to secure a mission, but he quickly regained his composure, his gaze tinged with interest. "Oh? You got a mission?" He regarded Lin Rui thoughtfully. "However, since it''s seven days from now, you can''t just idle about, can you? After all, your cultivation is still... lacking."


    Lin Rui smiled and nodded. "Indeed, planning to return home to continue cultivating. However, I''ll take them to accumulate experience if suitable missions arise. After all, I absolutely must pass the assessment in a month." He feigned ease but inwardly held a sliver of anticipation. It seemed Lin Tiande wasn''t opposed to him taking on missions.


    Lin Tiande glanced around, his expression shifting. Suddenly, he thought he could help Lin Rui with this minor matter and probe him in passing. After all, opinions on Lin Rui within the family had always been mixed, with various factions holding differing attitudes towards him. Although Lin Rui''s cultivation was wanting, and many in the family didn''t think much of him, some even considering him "useless," Lin Tiande was clear that Lin Rui was, after all, of his direct line of descent bloodline, coupled with the recent "Ancestor Manifestation" incident. He needed to carefully consider the current trends, especially at this crucial moment in the family''s internal power struggle.


    Lin Tiande pondered. Since Lin Rui was already under significant pressure from the upcoming assessment, perhaps giving him an opportunity and letting him undertake a mission to accumulate some experience and display some ability wouldn''t be amiss. After all, the family situation was complex, and the games between factions could not be ignored. Giving Lin Rui a hand at this juncture could be accruing some goodwill within the family.


    "Since you put it that way, I''ll give you a chance then," Lin Tiande said, his tone laced with a hint of testing yet also displaying a subtle undertone of concern. "However, this mission is not insignificant. I''m about to issue a mission now. Will you accept it?"


    Lin Rui''s eyes brightened, and his heart instantly filled with curiosity. "What mission? Second, Uncle, this mission must be important, right? Tell me the specifics."


    Seeing the interest in Lin Rui''s eyes, Lin Tiande decided. He took a deep breath, a flicker of composure within his gaze. "Since you desire opportunity so much, I shall grant you this mission to test if you truly possess the ability. Of course, since I''ve decided to give you this task, I naturally believe it to be within your capabilities."


    Lin Rui was momentarily stunned, watching Lin Tiande retrieve an ancient-looking token from his waist. Crafted from a strange material, its surface was covered in intricate runes, emitting faint undulations of spiritual energy. Lin Tiande gently tapped the token into the air, and it immediately levitated, emitting a low, resonant sonic pulse as if connecting to some invisible force.


    "Let the Spirit Network bear witness; the covenant shall commence," Lin Tiande intoned in a low voice with a hint of solemnity. The token hovered mid-air, its radiance growing ever more dazzling as if resonating with the unseen network permeating the Azure Clouds World. "This is a Spirit Network Covenant. Once formed, it will be bound by its rules. Successful completion will naturally bring benefits; a violation, however slight, will hinder your path forward, and a grave violation will damage your cultivation. Exercise utmost caution."


    Lin Rui gazed at the token, shimmering with runic light, and felt an invisible power permeating the air, causing a sense of awe to rise within him. This was no mere paper contract from his previous life but a more direct, more potent form of binding. He smiled faintly, muttering, "So, this is the ''covenant'' of the cultivation world, with the Spirit Network as witness. Quite just and impartial, indeed."


    From his life as a private investigator, he understood the importance of contracts. Every commission was more than just a money transaction; it was a pledge of credibility. This Spirit Network Covenant elevated that pledge to the level of the entire Azure Clouds World''s rules. Lin Rui understood that this was not merely a task but a test of his capabilities. Failure would mean losing experience, damaging credibility, and the potential for severe penalties from the Spirit Network, even impacting his future cultivation path.


    Lin Tiande, seeing Lin Rui listening attentively, continued, "The mission you are about to undertake is not simple, involving certain internal family matters. I will disclose the specifics when the mission is officially issued. Once you agree to accept the mission, the covenant takes immediate effect."


    A flicker of excitement flashed in Lin Rui''s eyes. He knew that internal family matters were bound to involve many secrets and complex relationships unknown to outsiders, precisely the kind of opportunities he could leverage. Moreover, his detective skills might prove invaluable.


    "I accept, Second Uncle," Lin Rui replied without hesitation, inwardly thrilled, sensing this was an invaluable opportunity.


    Lin Tiande smiled faintly, nodding in approval. "Since you''ve decided to accept, the covenant must be sealed." As he spoke, the token in his hand emitted a burst of bright light radiating outwards. The runes began to pulsate as if connecting to the Spirit Network, preparing to finalize the mission binding.


    As a subtle undulation rippled through him, Lin Rui sensed a peculiar connection quietly forming within his body. He knew his covenant with the Spirit Network was complete.


    "The mission is officially issued. You will investigate the theft at the family''s Spirit Tea Garden within three days and identify the culprit." Lin Tiande''s tone carried a hint of expectation. "I trust you will complete it successfully."


    Lin Rui nodded slightly, a surge of excitement welling up within him. This mission was his chance to establish himself within the Lin Family before the month-end assessment. He clearly understood that success would surely garner more support and recognition. Moreover, and most importantly, he could finally begin to legitimately utilize his private investigator skills, a prospect that thrilled him immensely.


    "Rest assured, Second Uncle, I will handle it as quickly as possible," Lin Rui said faintly. Then, turning away, he began mentally outlining the steps of his investigation, preparing to commit himself fully to this challenging task.


    No sooner had Lin Rui turned than he heard hushed whispers behind him.


    "Lin Rui dares to accept a mission? His cultivation hasn''t even reached Level 1. What kind of mission can he possibly do?" An older Lin Family disciple murmured, his tone laced with disdain. "With his meager cultivation, he''s simply unfit for such tasks. Probably just trying to save face."


    "Haha, you''re right. Back then, even the Wang Family looked down on him, which led to the annulment of the engagement due to his low cultivation. Now he''s running off to take missions, practically inviting trouble." Another disciple chuckled, his tone mocking.


    "However, the family''s attitude towards him seems to have shifted recently. Even Second Uncle has started to value him," a nearby disciple said in a low voice, tinged with doubt and apprehension. "If he completes this mission, that would be truly extraordinary. Anyway, though his cultivation is poor, he seems quite sharp-minded now. Who knows, he might solve the case."


    "You think he can pull it off? I think he''s just hanging around the family, trying to find a niche. He hasn''t even sensed spiritual energy. What can he possibly accomplish?" The older disciple scoffed, clearly not optimistic about Lin Rui.


    "Don''t underestimate him," another disciple added in a hushed tone. "Elder Tiande wouldn''t have assigned him the mission lightly. You know Elder Tiande is always meticulous, never making pointless gambles. Despite his poor cultivation, Lin Rui seems... more complex than we imagine."


    "Oh? So even you are optimistic about him?" A disciple raised an eyebrow, his tone tinged with playful mockery. "Even if he can take on a mission, whether he can complete it is another matter."


    Hearing these murmurs, the corners of Lin Rui''s mouth couldn''t help but lift slightly. Though their words carried a hint of disdain and contempt, he knew this was precisely his opportunity to shine. Every person who underestimated him would become the best foil to his eventual success.


    He did not heed their idle gossip but secretly resolved to prove everything with his actions.


    Lin Tiande, watching Lin Rui depart, seemed to have just recalled something and called out, "It''s late today. Start the investigation first thing tomorrow. But remember, also seek out your cousin Lin Yueyao; she will assist you in this investigation."


    Lin Rui was momentarily taken aback, tilting his head as he asked, "Lin Yueyao?" His tone carried a hint of uncertainty, and he inwardly searched his memory. Lin Yueyao was Lin Tiande''s only daughter and is currently one of the family''s most gifted members of the younger generation. Already at Meridian Awakening (Level 3), her strength was considerable, almost the pride of the family.


    "Your cousin will assist you as per my arrangement. You need not question her help," Lin Tiande added. "Though young, she has a keen interest in investigations of this nature."


    Lin Rui mused silently, "Help me? More like monitor me, I reckon."


    Recalling Lin Yueyao, Lin Rui couldn''t help but frown slightly. Though they didn''t interact much usually, Lin Yueyao had never held a favorable impression of him, particularly regarding her stance on his engagement with Wang Ruohan. Lin Yueyao had once mentioned in a family meeting that she felt his engagement with Wang Ruohan was a "blemish" on Wang Ruohan''s life, which led her to look down on Lin Rui. She believed that if Wang Ruohan were to marry her, it would be an honor to the family; however, because of Lin Rui''s existence, it all became somewhat "unbearable" Naturally, she was not fond of Lin Rui, this "Ruohan''s former fianc¨¦."


    This caused Lin Rui to maintain a certain distance from her. He didn''t feel she could offer him helpful assistance and even worried that her involvement in the investigation might bring trouble instead.


    However, he revealed no aversion and bowed his head politely, replying, "Yes, Second Uncle. I understand."


    Lin Tiande glanced at him, seeming to have no further intention to elaborate, and smiled faintly. "Seek her out tomorrow morning. She will certainly be of help."


    Lin Rui nodded, inwardly reluctant but without reason to refuse. After all, Lin Yueyao, as the family''s "genius," undoubtedly had value in terms of assistance, even if her attitude towards him left something to be desired.

 Chapter 10: Cold Reception and First Lesson

    Early morning found Lin Rui at Lin Yueyao''s courtyard, following Lin Tiande''s instructions. This private cultivation space had an elegant arrangement that emanated a distinctly calm atmosphere. A crystal-clear pond occupied the center, its gentle ripples revealing several lively spiritual fish darting beneath the surface. Water Spirit Grass and various water-attribute spirit herbs surrounded the pond. The air held a faint moisture, and the spiritual energy here felt more concentrated than elsewhere¡ªrefined and crisp to the senses.


    Lin Yueyao practiced a water-attribute cultivation technique, and every element of the courtyard complemented this¡ªwater spiritual energy saturated the space, nurturing the plants and spiritual creatures year-round. As Lin Rui walked through, he felt the surrounding energy clash with his own. The water-system spiritual energy, though gentle, carried an underlying chill that made him slightly furrow his brow.


    "Lin Rui, you''re here?" A cold voice suddenly broke the silence.


    Looking up, Lin Rui saw Lin Yueyao standing in the corner of the courtyard, the eaves casting shadows that outlined her slender figure. Her clothing caught the eye¡ªa robe of white and water-blue, its hem flowing like waves as though she were one with water itself. The white garment perfectly matched her water-attribute cultivation style¡ªcold and striking as ice, with a sharp, piercing presence. She stood motionless, mysterious, cold, and forbidding, like a phantom in water.


    Her face had the apparent beauty of ice and snow but with a coldness that kept others at a distance. Deep and penetrating, her eyes seemed to conceal turbulent depths with a hint of challenge. She didn''t welcome Lin Rui''s arrival and made no effort to hide her subtle disdain.


    Lin Rui smiled slightly as he approached. "Good morning, Cousin. Uncle sent me to find you."


    Lin Yueyao gave Lin Rui a cold look. Her gaze was clear and chilly as water, yet not without a hint of challenge. "What do you want with me? Handle your own business and leave me out of it." Her voice carried an unmistakable arrogance and coldness. You''re just an outsider without any cultivation ability. What can you do? Do you think you can handle clan matters?"


    Lin Rui felt a slight twinge inside, knowing her opinion of him was far from friendly, especially regarding the broken engagement from the past. Facing her provocation, he showed no displeasure, maintaining his gentle smile. "Uncle gave me a task, Cousin. You can''t ignore a clan order. Besides, the mission requires your help. If you assist, you''ll do your part for the family."


    Lin Yueyao''s eyes remained unwavering, her tone still sharp. "I don''t care about your words. If it weren''t for my father asking me to help, I wouldn''t even be standing here." She smirked contemptuously, her gaze turning with obvious disgust. "But this task of yours isn''t so simple. I''m curious to see if a useless person like you can handle it."


    Lin Rui found her words almost amusing and remained unmoved by her rhetoric. He understood that Lin Yueyao''s arrogance and coldness had reason¡ªafter all, as the clan''s prodigy, her cultivation far surpassed his own. He nodded slightly, still maintaining his gentle demeanor. "Thank you for your help, Cousin. Since Uncle has instructed us, I can''t refuse. Let''s complete this task together¡ªit will honor the family and allow you to prove your abilities."


    Lin Yueyao pursed her lips, clearly not wanting to waste time. "I don''t need to prove anything¡ªyou''re the one who needs to prove yourself." She laughed coldly, her tone merciless. "But let me be clear: if you fail, don''t blame me for not making things easier for you."


    Lin Rui silently noted her attitude. Though somewhat dissatisfied, he understood Lin Yueyao''s coldness was merely an expression of her confidence and sense of superiority. Her gaze had yet to fall on him, clearly believing he wasn''t worthy of her respect. Given that, he wouldn''t rush to respond but instead use his actions to break through her prejudice.


    He nodded with a smile. "In that case, let''s begin. Cousin, have you any clues or thoughts about this theft case?"


    Lin Yueyao cast him a contemptuous glance and snorted. "Clues? Do I look like someone with nothing better to do than hand you information? However, since you''re investigating, check the Spirit Tea Garden." Her tone carried impatience. "The rest is none of your concern."


    Lin Rui nodded, and though somewhat displeased, he maintained his composure.


    As he prepared to leave, Lin Rui suddenly stopped and turned to Lin Yueyao, his tone calm yet with a hint of challenge: "Cousin, then let''s go investigate the Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden." His tone wasn''t urgent, but his eyes revealed an underlying determination.


    Lin Yueyao rolled her eyes, clearly disliking this sudden proposal. She gave a light snort, then turned toward the house. Her maids quickly followed. One maid softly said, "Young Mistress, the sun is too harsh; you should cover yourself." She handed over an exquisitely decorated parasol with a light blue silk canopy embroidered with delicate water patterns, seeming to ripple with the slightest breeze.


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    Lin Yueyao took the parasol and opened it gracefully. Another maid approached with a jade powder puff, lightly dabbing her cheeks. This puff was no ordinary item but crafted from spiritual ore, embedded with fine spiritual energy that could instantly balance skin tone and even infuse the skin with a hint of nourishing spiritual power, making her complexion appear as smooth as jade.


    Next, a more refined maid held up a small silver mirror with frames inlaid with several faintly glowing spirit stones capable of reflecting the most precise light. Lin Yueyao looked at herself in the mirror, gently adjusting a few strands of hair and slightly raising the corners of her mouth, seemingly satisfied with her appearance. She adjusted her jade hairpin slightly, refined her bun, and then applied a drop of extremely rare spirit fragrance behind her ears. The scent was as subtle as water, emanating waves of calming essence.


    Every detail was flawless, and it was as if her appearance had become the standard model in the cultivation world. After completing her look, Lin Yueyao smiled lightly, her eyes full of confidence and elegance. She held up her parasol and followed slowly behind Lin Rui.


    Watching this sequence of actions, Lin Rui couldn''t help but inwardly sigh: "She does take her appearance seriously."


    Though he didn''t mainly focus on such superficial matters now, he had to admire Lin Yueyao''s strict standards for her image. This attention to detail and pursuit of perfection reflected the confidence and pride typical of a cultivator.


    The two stepped out of the courtyard together, Lin Yueyao''s parasol gently raised, moving as lightly as a water spirit. Lin Rui followed her, silently planning his next moves: The Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden¡ªwhere they would start.


    # Chapter 10: Cold Reception and First Lesson (continued)


    Walking behind Lin Yueyao, Lin Rui noticed that all eyes along the way seemed drawn to her. Whether disciples engaged in cultivation or merchants busy in the market, almost everyone couldn''t help stealing glances. Vendors on both sides of the street whispered: "Look at that Lin Yueyao; she''s becoming more beautiful every day." Another replied: "I heard she''s already at level three cultivation¡ªtruly a genius."


    Lin Rui tilted his head slightly, catching more gossip about Lin Yueyao: "You don''t know? That girl, Yueyao, isn''t just beautiful with high cultivation; the family adores her completely. I heard the story between her and Wang Ruohan is quite something. Though he rejected the marriage recently, she''s still the most favored one."


    "Favored?" another person muttered. "Don''t forget, Lin Yueyao is the most outstanding genius in the Lin family. Her marrying Wang Ruohan would have been a match of equals¡ªthe Wang family is the one who lost out. Wang Ruohan must have very high standards to dare look down on her!"


    Hearing these words, Lin Rui was surprised: "What? Wang Ruohan rejected Lin Yueyao? Damn, these gossips spread like wildfire."


    He couldn''t help but think: "No wonder Lin Yueyao is so proud, almost overly confident¡ªeveryone talks about her this way." However, he knew these comments weren''t entirely true; at least some were fabricated based on Lin Yueyao''s appearance and family status.


    Lin Yueyao hadn''t noticed these discussions. Her pace remained elegant and unhurried as she occasionally glanced back at Lin Rui, her eyes showing evident pride and a hint of impatience. Her gaze swept over the surrounding crowd, seemingly indifferent to their whispers. Instead, she slightly raised the corners of her mouth, enjoying the attention.


    She suddenly said softly: "These common folk¡ªthey almost make me laugh." Her tone conveyed a hint of contempt, suggesting she didn''t take such rumors seriously.


    Lin Rui felt helpless but responded with a smile: "There seem to be many stories about you, Cousin. However, I''d like to hear your thoughts on some matters." He couldn''t help but feel curious about her confidence as he spoke.


    Lin Yueyao smiled faintly, her lips slightly pursed: "I couldn''t care less about rumors. You know what? I''m just waiting for them to say something worthwhile." Looking at the Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden ahead, her eyes flashed disdainfully. "That matter with Wang Ruohan¡ªforget it, not worth mentioning. You know he isn''t worthy of me. But you¡ªwatch yourself. Don''t get any ideas about him."


    Lin Rui couldn''t help but smile inwardly: "Her arrogant attitude hasn''t changed at all. It''s as if the whole world should revolve around her."


    The two finally arrived at the gates of the Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden. A faint tea fragrance permeated the air, and lush trees grew all around. The atmosphere seemed infused with spiritual energy. Cultivators inside the garden respectfully bowed upon seeing Lin Yueyao, demonstrating her high reputation in this area. Lin Yueyao nodded lightly in response¡ªpolite¡ªbut her eyes still carried a hint of coldness, as if nothing in this world besides herself was worth a second glance.


    Standing nearby, Lin Rui gazed at the peaceful tea garden, planning how to begin his investigation. Lin Yueyao, meanwhile, clearly had little interest in their surroundings. Her arrogant gaze swept the area as if every leaf in the garden was subject to her scrutiny.


    "Let''s go." Lin Yueyao suddenly turned to Lin Rui, her tone indifferent. "Don''t waste time. While these people aren''t paying attention, find something useful." With that, she began walking deeper into the tea garden as if the entire place were her domain.


    As she walked, she gazed at the mist-shrouded tea trees and slowly began explaining: "This Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden is the foundation of our Lin family. The ''Cloud Mist Spirit Buds'' grown here are top-grade mortal-rank spirit tea, highly beneficial for cultivators in the ''Meridian Awakening'' stage. They help clear the meridians and enhance cultivation. Their value is so high that I needn''t say more¡ªyou should understand."


    Lin Yueyao''s tone shifted as she fixed Lin Rui with a penetrating gaze, seemingly waiting for his decision: "You can start by questioning Manager Lin Fu. After all, he knows the most about this tea garden. Also, my father has already informed everyone in the garden that you''ll investigate the theft, so they''ll all cooperate with you."


    Her tone conveyed a hint of challenge yet revealed subtle expectations regarding Lin Rui''s abilities. After all, as a member of the Lin family, if Lin Rui could achieve something in this theft case, he would certainly gain more family support and prestige.


    Lin Rui said softly: "In that case, I''ll start with Lin Fu."

 Chapter 11: We Need To Follow This Lead

    Lin Rui entered the manager''s quarters of the Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden and couldn''t help but feel a twinge of sympathy upon seeing Lin Fu.


    The man''s face looked exceptionally haggard, his bloodshot eyes betraying several sleepless nights caused by the pressure and anxiety of the theft case. An unmistakable weariness emanated from him as if the entire burden of the missing spirit tea rested on his shoulders alone.


    "Uncle Lin Fu, this spirit tea theft has been troublesome," Lin Rui said, cutting straight to the point.


    Lin Fu heaved a long sigh, wiping sweat from his brow. His furrowed eyebrows revealed his obvious distress. "Indeed. The tea garden''s security has always been tight¡ªoutsiders can''t sneak in. We''ve even increased patrols these past few days, however..."


    He paused, his eyes flickering with hesitation about whether to continue. Finally, he added in a low tone, "We''ve been discussing that whoever stole the spirit tea must have known the garden''s inner workings to act so boldly."


    Lin Rui nodded slightly, silently observing Lin Fu. The man''s words carried deep resignation, but the flicker in his eyes raised Lin Rui''s suspicions¡ªthis didn''t seem like the behavior of a completely innocent manager.


    "Have there been any unusual situations in the garden recently? Or any behavior that seems particularly noteworthy?" Lin Rui continued, his tone calm yet hiding a sharp edge.


    Lin Fu''s expression faltered for a moment, followed by a flash of unease in his eyes. He sighed softly and said in a hushed voice, "Recently, Old Chen the Third has been working late into the night. You know, he''s one of the tea processing workers, and lately, he''s stayed until midnight several times before leaving. Tea processing is already demanding work, but staying so late in the garden is truly unusual."


    Lin Rui''s mind stirred, immediately noticing the subtle shift in Lin Fu''s tone¡ªhe seemed reluctant to elaborate on Old Chen''s situation, his words filled with evasiveness despite bringing up the topic.


    "Old Chen the Third?" Lin Rui echoed, his gaze steady as he probed beyond the surface of the words.


    Lin Fu quickly lowered his head, his eyes darting about as if afraid he''d said too much. "He... perhaps he''s just falling behind on the tea processing schedule. The pressure''s high, so he works overtime. As for anything else... I can''t say there''s a problem with him."


    Lin Rui frowned slightly, having already formed a judgment¡ªLin Fu''s mention of Old Chen involved some deflection. Though he spoke as if confident in his reasoning, that moment of hesitation and the flicker in his eyes revealed his inner concerns.


    "I understand, Uncle Lin Fu," Lin Rui didn''t press further, offering a slight smile. "Thank you for the information. I''ll look into Old Chen''s recent activities and see if, as you say, he''s working late due to pressure."


    Lin Fu sighed with relief, revealing a complex expression. "If you need any help, please tell me. This is family business¡ªI don''t want any more troubles."


    Lin Rui walked into the rear courtyard of the Spiritual Cloud Tea Garden, where rows of tea trees stood with emerald leaves glistening in the sunlight. The air was thick with an intoxicating tea fragrance. However, Lin Rui wasn''t distracted by the beautiful scenery; his eyes were fixed on a corner of the tea processing workshop¡ªOld Chen the Third''s work area. The elderly tea worker had earned quite a reputation in Bamboo Cloud Town for his exceptional skills, yet Lin Rui sensed that things weren''t as simple as they appeared.


    Old Chen was busy at the kiln, turning hot tea leaves with an iron shovel. His movements were practiced as always, but close observation revealed a subtle restlessness, even a trace of agitation. Standing in the doorway, Lin Rui noticed Chen''s pale complexion and the beads of sweat on his forehead, which were clear signs of inner turmoil.


    Lin Rui approached and called softly, "Old Chen."


    Chen whirled around, alarm flashing in his eyes before quickly suppressing it, forcing an awkward smile. "Ah, young Master Lin, perfect timing! Just busy roasting tea here. What brings you by?"


    Lin Rui took note. Chen''s reaction was quick, but he couldn''t hide his inner turbulence. Looking around, Lin Rui observed that the workshop maintained its usual order, but a strange bitter scent hung in the air¡ªnot like tea fragrance¡ªmore like something else entirely. This raised his vigilance.


    "Old Chen, have you been busy lately?" Lin Rui asked directly, his tone calm yet probing.


    Chen''s smile froze for a few seconds before he responded with a bitter laugh. "Busy, yes, quite busy. The garden''s production is behind schedule, so everyone''s working overtime. When is a tea worker not busy? Early mornings, late nights¡ªwhen do we get to rest?" His words carried obvious self-reassurance, but Lin Rui keenly detected the concealment beneath.


    Lin Rui frowned slightly, maintaining a neutral tone: "Is that so? I heard you''ve been working until recently, staying much later than others. Several times, you''ve returned quite late. Is there some special reason?"


    Chen''s eyes flickered as he lowered his head, avoiding Lin Rui''s gaze. "Not at all... I''m just busy with work. Nobody wants these tea leaves processed properly more than I do." His words trembled slightly, betraying his nervousness.


    Lin Rui didn''t rush to respond, continuing to scan the surroundings until his gaze settled on a copper knife on the wall. The handle bore several noticeable scratch marks that seemed recent. Though seemingly insignificant, these marks triggered a sense of unease in Lin Rui. They weren''t ordinary work marks but appeared to have been caused by some hasty movement.


    "This knife?" Lin Rui pointed at it, his tone casual.


    Old Chen''s eyes darted away instantly, his face turning slightly pale, clearly reluctant to discuss the topic. "This knife? I use it to trim tea branches. Just knocked it accidentally while working¡ªnothing special." He tried to mask his nervousness with a casual tone, but Lin Rui detected the unusual reaction.


    Lin Rui smiled slightly, maintaining his calm demeanor: "But these scratches look like they were made by something sharp, and the blade''s wear is uneven¡ªas if someone was hastily dealing with something and left marks in their rush." He paused, his gaze sharpening. "Old Chen, are you hiding something lately?"


    Chen''s face immediately grew paler, alarm flashing in his eyes as he stepped backward, swallowing hard. "I... I''m not hiding anything. There''s just been a lot of work lately, and there is high pressure. Sometimes, I can''t control my emotions well."


    Lin Rui didn''t press immediately; instead, he fixed his gaze on the man as if trying to unveil all his hidden secrets. Though Chen repeatedly emphasized he wasn''t concealing anything, Lin Rui had already reached a more definite conclusion. Chen''s nervousness and the flaws in his words revealed his true inner state.


    "Old Chen, this theft case is significant. Since you''ve been working overtime lately, it wouldn''t hurt to help ease some of your pressure and see if we can find any clues," Lin Rui said gently but in a tone that brooked no refusal.


    Chen''s expression changed, his eyes flashing with complexity, seemingly hesitating whether to continue hiding something. Finally, he didn''t say more, just forcing a smile: "Young Master Lin, thank you for your concern, but I truly have nothing to hide. It''s just extra work, nothing else."


    Lin Rui didn''t speak further, simply watching him quietly, having already decided. Though Chen pretended to be calm on the surface, his every action betrayed his hidden anxiety and unease. Lin Rui was now certain that Chen was not as innocent as he claimed¡ªhe definitely knew more but wasn''t ready to reveal it yet.


    "Very well, Old Chen. Carry on with your work; I won''t disturb you." With that, Lin Rui turned and left the workshop, silently deliberating his next move.


    Lin Rui crossed through the garden''s rear courtyard, a gentle breeze rustling the verdant tea trees, the air still fragrant with rich tea aromas. Yet Lin Rui''s gaze wasn''t drawn to these beautiful scenes; his attention remained focused on the investigation ahead. He walked toward the training ground at the side of the garden where family guards conducted their daily practice.


    Lin Hu was leading a group of guards in combat training. Tall and imposing, his movements flowed like water, his swordsmanship powerful and precise, each move emanating a commanding presence. As captain of the Lin family guards, he enjoyed the family''s deep trust¡ªnot only for his martial prowess but for his loyalty. Always serious and taciturn, he was the core figure among the guards.


    When Lin Hu finally stopped training and wiped the sweat from his brow, Lin Rui approached.


    "How busy have things been with the recent tea garden theft?" Lin Rui asked, his tone concise and direct, without pleasantries.


    Lin Hu wiped his sweat, appearing somewhat tired, but a flash of seriousness crossed his eyes. "Very busy. Things have been unstable lately. The guard patrols have been increased, but suspicious circumstances remain. The theft might not be as simple as mere stealing." He paused, lowering his voice. "During our recent inspections, we discovered the garden''s internal defenses aren''t as secure as they appear on the surface."


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    Lin Rui raised an eyebrow, looking alertly at Lin Hu. "What do you mean?"


    Lin Hu lowered his voice, glancing around to ensure no one was watching them, then whispered: "During our patrols, we found discrepancies in some guards'' patrol times and records. Several people''s patrol logs showed time differences that were too great, and some guards'' reports contained content that didn''t match reality. Moreover, certain guards frequently appear behind the tea garden mountain for no legitimate reason." He paused, his expression grave. "These individuals have suspicious movements and complex situations."


    Lin Rui''s mind stirred¡ªclearly this wasn''t as simple as just an insider issue. "Which guards? Can you be more specific?"


    Lin Hu frowned slightly, falling silent for a moment. "I can''t confirm exactly who yet. However, several people''s movements are definitely suspicious, especially those guards who normally don''t stand out. Their behavior has become unusual lately, as if deliberately avoiding inspections." He sighed. "We''re already investigating secretly and have found some clues, but we need more time and evidence."


    Lin Rui nodded briefly before speaking: "In that case, keep an eye out and try to record these people''s movement patterns, especially the times and places they appear. If necessary, I''ll investigate personally."


    Lin Hu slightly bowed, his expression serious: "Understood, Brother Lin Rui. I''ll watch closely. The truth behind this theft must be uncovered quickly¡ªwe can''t let these people continue to operate freely."


    Lin Rui felt a flash of gratitude and said softly: "Thank you for your help." His gaze fell discreetly on the sword at Lin Hu''s waist as he finished speaking. The sword handle seemed to have some scratches¡ªuneven lines that appeared recently. This detail alerted Lin Rui, especially since Lin Hu was normally so masterful with weapons; such scratches were unusual.


    Lin Rui gave Lin Hu a penetrating look, harboring suspicions but choosing not to voice them. Instead, he smiled slightly and turned to leave the training ground.


    Next, Lin Rui opened the administrative hall doors and entered the family''s internal affairs department. The atmosphere here was rigorous and quiet, with ledgers and documents neatly arranged perfectly. Lin Qiushui sat at her desk, focused intently on organizing a stack of family account books.


    Hearing the door, she looked up, her gaze calm yet polite. Seeing Lin Rui, she smiled faintly: "Young Master Lin, are you here to inquire about the situation?"


    Lin Rui got straight to the point: "Are you Internal Affairs Officer Lin Qiushui?"


    Lin Qiushui nodded in response.


    "I''d like to ask you something. As the family''s internal affairs officer, you must know all financial transactions. Has there been any financial irregularity regarding the tea garden theft on the family''s side? For instance, any unexplained expenditures or abnormal fund movements in the accounts?"


    Lin Qiushui''s expression paused briefly before quickly returning to its usual calm. She held the ledger and spoke softly: "The family has indeed conducted checks regarding the tea garden theft. After our internal review, we found no large-scale abnormal fund movements in the accounts, but some minor details are worth noting."


    A flash of alertness crossed Lin Rui''s eyes. "Minor details? What are they?"


    Lin Qiushui began slowly: "Several expenditures, especially those related to the tea garden, seem to have bypassed strict approval processes and were handled hastily. More strangely, some purchase receipts show that our usual suppliers didn''t provide the items. For instance, some recent tea processing equipment was procured through irregular channels¡ªthe suppliers'' names aren''t even on the family''s established list."


    Lin Rui raised an eyebrow, recognizing this as an essential lead worth pursuing. "What exactly is the situation with these expenses? Can they be traced back to specific suppliers or individuals?"


    Lin Qiushui''s eyes flickered slightly, and she sighed: "At present, while these expenditures have no direct suppliers listed, we''ve discovered that their occurrence aligns with the timeline of the tea garden theft. Though these expenses seem scattered and seemingly negligible individually, they amount to a significant sum when added together."


    Lin Rui''s mind stirred, though he maintained his composure. "Where did these funds eventually flow? Have you found any more specific traces?"


    Lin Qiushui shook her head: "There''s no direct link to any particular supplier or individual yet, but I''ll continue tracking these transaction records. If you need, I can provide you with all relevant bills and detailed records to help your analysis."


    Lin Rui nodded, smiling slightly: "Thank you, Lin Qiushui. I''d like you to pay attention to the internal management of the tea garden to see if anyone has privately exchanged any items. After all, the truth behind theft incidents often lies within such details."


    Lin Qiushui''s gaze sharpened as she nodded in understanding: "I''ll strengthen monitoring. Although the tea garden''s management has always been strict, with personnel movements under control, if someone deliberately bypasses these regulations, it''s certainly an issue that can''t be ignored."


    Lin Rui inclined his head slightly: "Thank you for your trouble. Please notify me immediately of any developments regarding the tea garden."


    Lin Qiushui paused, her eyes revealing deep thought: "Young Master Lin, please be careful. What lies behind this incident is likely more than just a simple theft case."


    Lin Rui didn''t say much more, simply nodding lightly before turning to leave the administrative hall. As he left, he continued pondering the meaning of Lin Qiushui''s words¡ªthe issues behind the theft case seemed more complex than he had anticipated.


    Despite questioning several relevant individuals, Lin Rui felt he still hadn''t grasped any substantial clues. Lin Qiushui''s demeanor was calm¡ªtoo calm¡ªand although Lin Hu''s patrol didn''t show obvious flaws on the surface, something about the details felt off. After some contemplation, he decided to change his approach and search for more traces in the environment.


    Entering the depths of the tea garden, Lin Rui approached the warehouse. He observed its exterior, noting that the guard standing at the entrance seemed somewhat lax. The guard, who should have been strictly rotating positions and remaining vigilant, appeared rather listless, his gaze wandering, occasionally looking down at the instrument in his hand, barely paying attention to his surroundings. Lin Rui raised an eyebrow¡ªwhile this wasn''t enough to prove misconduct, the guard was clearly unfocused.


    "What''s going on here?" Lin Rui muttered softly, stepping lightly past the guard and continuing toward the warehouse.


    He noticed several unusual aspects around the warehouse. First, a small path behind the warehouse didn''t show many signs of foot traffic, but upon closer inspection, Lin Rui discovered a small section of ground that had been pressed relatively flat. It didn''t look like an area frequented by regular passersby but rather a path deliberately traversed. Lin Rui bent down to examine it carefully, finding the soil in this area was very densely packed, indicating some people had tried to conceal their movements.


    However, he suddenly noticed something even more alarming¡ªfaint, strange footprints on the ground, unlike those of humans, resembling animal paw prints. Lin Rui crouched down to observe these prints, his brow furrowing slightly. Their shape was unique, unlike any common spirit beast, giving him an inexplicable sense of unease.


    He took a piece of paper and a pen from his pocket and quickly sketched the shape of these footprints. The pen tip moved rapidly across the paper as Lin Rui''s gaze intently followed every line, trying to capture the details of these strange prints. After finishing, he gently blew away the wet ink and carefully examined his sketch.


    Lin Rui thought he might find clues to connect these strange footprints to the truth behind the case later.


    Next, he continued examining the surroundings and discovered several broken tea branches. The fractured ends showed signs of being scorched, clearly indicating that some form of flame power had been active nearby. Lin Rui crouched down and gently touched the broken ends of the tea branches, feeling a faint spiritual energy fluctuation that immediately caught his attention.


    Looking around, he noticed a subtle, peculiar scent in the air that didn''t belong to spirit tea. The smell was very subtle and slightly pungent, completely different from the familiar spirit tea fragrance he knew. Lin Rui frowned, an uneasy premonition rising in his mind¡ªthis scent likely came from some spirit herb or special substance residue.


    Lin Rui thought, "These clues don''t seem to point to an ordinary theft, but rather some kind of organized operation." He stood up, quickly envisioning a more complex scenario, silently determining to uncover the truth behind it all.


    Just as he was lost in thought, light footsteps sounded behind him. Lin Rui turned to see Lin Yueyao, her brow slightly furrowed, clearly noticing his actions. "Lin Rui, how''s your investigation going?" Her tone carried a hint of concern, though her proud demeanor remained unchanged. Her voice was still calm and distant.


    Lin Rui nodded to her, his eyes flickering with deep contemplation. "There are some suspicious elements," he paused before continuing, "I''ve spoken with several people, and though I have preliminary suspicions, I still haven''t found any clear leads. I also checked around this warehouse and discovered some strange traces. I just sketched these footprints¡ªthey seem to belong to some animal or spirit beast. Also, the thieves might have used special magical tools or formations. And the guards'' positions are rather lax, unlike normal patrols."


    Lin Yueyao seemed to be pondering something, then suddenly took a talisman paper from her waist. With a light stroke of her finger, a faint talisman pattern appeared in the air. "If that''s the case, let''s try this." She handed Lin Rui a talisman paper. "This is a ''Tracking Talisman'' that can trace spiritual or demonic energy signatures, helping us find more direct clues."


    Lin Rui accepted the talisman, feeling its intense spiritual fluctuations¡ªno ordinary item. Lin Yueyao quickly activated the talisman, which emitted a pale blue light before flying out to hover. The talisman began to release thin strands of weak spiritual power, and following its guidance, Lin Rui felt a subtle force beginning to direct their actions.


    The talisman swayed slightly, pointing toward the outer edge of the tea garden before finally stopping at the edge of a dense forest.


    Lin Rui''s eyes flashed with excitement and puzzlement. "This dense forest? Why would it point there?"


    Lin Yueyao responded calmly: "Why don''t we go and find out?" Her concise and forceful words showed her interest in this direction.


    Without further delay, the two quickly headed toward the forest. Lin Rui moved with light steps, maintaining high alertness despite having some conjectures in mind. Dappled shadows played across the ground deep in the forest, and the air carried a damp smell.


    A few steps into the dense forest, Lin Rui suddenly stopped beneath an old tree. "Here," he said softly, carefully examining the ground. "Look at this." He pointed to the ground, finding broken leaves and blackened marks, clear evidence of a significant fire.


    Lin Yueyao''s brow furrowed slightly as she stepped forward to examine carefully. "These leaves are scorched," she said quietly. "Probably caused by some special magical tool."


    Just then, Lin Rui''s gaze was suddenly drawn to a broken jade pendant. He crouched and carefully picked up the fragment, closely observing its carving. His brow furrowed slightly¡ªthe pendant bore an unfamiliar family crest, utterly different from the Lin family mark. It seemed this jade pendant was connected to whoever was behind the theft.


    "What family symbol is this?" Lin Rui asked softly.


    Lin Yueyao shook her head slightly: "I don''t recognize this crest, but it''s likely connected to the thieves. We need to follow this lead."


    The two exchanged glances, deciding to continue their investigation to unravel the mystery behind this case.

 Chapter 12: The Hidden Hand Emerges

    After discussing their plan, Lin Yueyao and Lin Rui decided to split up.


    Lin Yueyao would covertly investigate the recent movements and connections of several key suspects¡ªLin Hu, Lin Qiushui, Lin Fu, and Old Chen the Third¡ªwhile Lin Rui returned alone to the Lin Family Library.


    He intended to meticulously comb through the extensive collection of tomes and records, searching for overlooked clues and a potential breakthrough in the case. While this method seemed tedious, his experience as a detective in his past life had taught him that the most crucial clues often hid within seemingly mundane details.


    He quickly located several volumes related to Spirit Beasts, Spirit Artifacts, and Formations, opened the first one, and began to read intently.


    He began with the Azure Mist Spirit Beast Atlas, a work that detailed the classification and characteristics of Spirit Beasts, which included a specific chapter on highly perceptive ones. His gaze settled on a particular description, which he read silently:


    "Spirit-Seeking Rats: This Spirit Beast is diminutive in size and highly alert, its fur smooth as satin, and its eyes bright and sharp, capable of detecting extremely faint fluctuations in Spirit Qi. They often inhabit areas rich in Spirit Herbs and excel at using qi fluctuations to locate valuable resources like Spirit Herbs and ore veins. These beasts are exceptionally sensitive to Spirit Qi, able to quickly discern its intensity and origin, which is why cultivators often use them to find rare Spirit Medicines and mineral deposits. Spirit-Seeking Mice are tiny, agile, and nimble, making them extremely difficult to spot. When startled, they can instantly conceal themselves within their surroundings. Consequently, the tracks they leave are hard to find, and research indicates their paw prints are difficult to identify through ordinary means. Controlling such a beast requires a specially concocted powder."


    He studied this passage intently, then drew the paper bearing the recorded footprint from his robes. Carefully unfolding it, he meticulously compared the track to the illustrations in the book, examining every detail over and over. Gradually, he confirmed that the track he''d found was indeed not left by any ordinary animal; its shape and depth pointed towards a Spirit-Seeking Rat.


    "Could the thief have used a Spirit-Seeking Rat to pinpoint the exact location of the Spirit Tea?" The thought flashed through his mind, but he kept his composure. After finishing the section, he carefully noted down his line of reasoning.


    Next, he picked up the jade fragment. Its edges were worn, and the fragmented section barely hinted at its original form. Intricate talismanic markings were carved onto the jade''s surface. Though incomplete, they seemed to be the insignia of a specific sect or merchant guild. He traced the markings with a fingertip, his brow furrowed in thought.


    Setting the jade piece aside, he retrieved the Compendium of Spirit Artifacts and Talisman Markings and turned to the chapter on merchant guild and sect insignias.


    Soon, he spotted a symbol on one page that resembled the markings on the jade fragment. It was the insignia of the Thunderlight Sect, or perhaps similar to the more common symbol of the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild¡ªboth of which were known to use a lightning motif.


    "The Thunderlight Sect, or the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild?" Lin Rui wondered.


    Both factions possessed deep roots and considerable power within Azure Mist Province. The surviving markings on the jade couldn''t be insignificant. He suddenly realized that far more complex forces might be lurking behind this case.


    As his thoughts turned, Lin Rui picked up another book¡ªthe Azure Mist Province: Secret Records of Spirit Artifacts and Talismans.


    He turned to a chapter concerning fire-attribute Spirit Artifacts, his gaze growing resolute. The book described the use and characteristics of fire-attribute artifacts in detail:


    "Fire-Attribute Spirit Artifacts: These are a class of artifacts primarily utilizing flame, typically possessing formidable scorching and offensive power. The flame temperature can instantaneously reach extreme heights, making them widely used in combat, especially against Spirit Beasts and other opponents. Certain fire-attribute artifacts can unleash intense flames in a short period, leaving distinct burn marks. Common examples include the ''Flame Soul Mirror,'' the ''Crimson Flame Scythe,'' and the ''Flame Orb.''"


    Lin Rui noted this information down. He recalled the severed tea branches he''d seen near the Tea Garden warehouse; the broken ends bore distinct scorch marks. And the nature of the burns didn''t resemble ordinary fire, but rather flames produced by some kind of Spirit Artifact. The temperature had been far beyond normal, capable of instantly searing through the branches. This made Lin Rui almost certain that a fire-attribute Spirit Artifact was involved in the case.


    Finally, he opened the Analysis of Formations and Spatial Artifacts. His focus sharpened when he reached the section on spatial artifacts. The book stated:


    "Spatial Artifacts: These artifacts allow items to be stored within an independent space, using formations or Void Talismans to transfer objects. They can typically move large quantities of items into a dimension separate from reality in an extremely short time, leaving almost no physical trace."


    As Lin Rui finished reading this passage, realization dawned on him. "If the thief used a spatial artifact," he thought, "they could have moved the Spirit Tea to an unknown location in a very short time... with the entire process being virtually silent and traceless."


    Lin Rui began to piece things together, realizing this theft was far from simple. The Spirit-Seeking Mouse helped the thief pinpoint the Spirit Tea''s location; a fire-attribute artifact was used to clear obstacles or destroy evidence, leaving the scorch marks; and a spatial artifact spirited the Spirit Tea away to a hidden space¡ªall without leaving physical traces. All the clues indicated that the force behind this was extraordinary; the case likely involved powerful cultivators or factions.


    Yet, Lin Rui''s uncertainty grew: The Thunderlight Sect, the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild, or someone else entirely?


    As night fell, Lin Yueyao quietly came to Lin Rui''s room. The two sat down quietly and began to review the day''s investigation.


    Lin Yueyao spoke first, "I''ve checked into Lin Hu, Lin Qiushui, Lin Fu, and Chen Laosan. Let''s start with Lin Hu. While he was somewhat derelict in his patrol duties and certainly didn''t perform them properly, he lacks both the motive and the ability to commit the crime. His failure, even if serious, points to negligence, not malice."


    She paused, then continued, "As for Lin Qiushui, although he was secretly selling Spirit Tea, that seems more like embezzlement, a matter of personal greed. It''s unlikely to be connected to the actual theft itself."


    "''What about Lin Fu?'' Lin Rui asked."


    "''Nothing significant found regarding Lin Fu for now,'' Lin Yueyao replied. ''He seems like a conventional, by-the-book sort of person. Aside from a few account entries related to family interests, nothing particularly suspicious.'' She continued, ''But Chen Laosan... something''s not right there.''"


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    Lin Rui raised an eyebrow slightly. "Chen Laosan?"


    Lin Yueyao nodded, lowering her voice. "Recently, he''s had some private dealings with an outsider cultivator named Zhao Xiu. Zhao Xiu is a young man with a mild appearance, apparently connected to the Myriad Medicines Alliance in some way. I heard his family controls quite a few channels for medicinal herbs and Spirit Medicines; his background is significant. Someone saw them eating and drinking on the first floor of the Drunken Immortal Pavilion. It looked casual, but... it feels fishy."


    A flicker passed through Lin Rui''s eyes. "Zhao Xiu, the Myriad Medicines Alliance... Not the Thunderlight Sect or the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild, then."


    "What''s stranger," Lin Yueyao paused, "is that someone mentioned Zhao Xiu always carries a peculiar scent."


    Lin Rui''s mind raced. Zhao Xiu''s relationship with Chen Laosan, that scent... it all seemed to point towards a more complicated situation.


    Lin Rui took a deep breath and said slowly, "That powder scent... I can''t be sure, but I did smell something near Chen Laosan that didn''t belong." He paused, his gaze sharp.


    Lin Yueyao looked at him, her eyes full of questions. "Oh? What a coincidence. Do you have a new theory?"


    Lin Rui nodded slightly. "I have a few ideas now, though it''s still just speculation. Zhao Xiu''s scent might be the same as the one I noticed. In the Qingluo Province Spirit Beast Atlas, I found a type of Spirit Beast that requires a specific powder to control. Its tracks are very similar to the footprints I found at the scene. Combining that with Zhao Xiu''s connection to Chen Laosan, I suspect he played an important role in this case."


    Lin Yueyao''s gaze sharpened further. "So what''s your plan?"


    Lin Rui met her gaze, his own firm. "I''ll start by looking into Zhao Xiu''s background. If I''m right, his relationship with Chen Laosan goes far beyond simple dealings. It''s very possible the Thunderlight Sect or the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild are involved behind the scenes."


    He then explained his deductions and thoughts to Lin Yueyao in detail. They discussed it for a while before Lin Rui stood up, his tone lightening. "Let''s rest for tonight. We continue the investigation tomorrow."


    They exchanged a look, and Lin Yueyao rose silently and left, leaving Lin Rui alone to face the turbulent thoughts of the night.


    The next day, Lin Yueyao and Lin Rui went to the Spirit Tea Garden together. She still carried her exquisite oil-paper parasol, beneath which her appearance remained flawless, as if she could precisely control even the subtle shifts in the air around her.


    "Lin Fu, gather everyone from the tea garden," her voice was calm and strong, carrying an undeniable authority.


    Soon, the tea garden workers had assembled. Lin Yueyao stood in the center of the garden, her gaze sweeping over each employee. Her tone was level, yet the authority in her words was impossible to ignore:


    "The Lin family possesses a batch of even higher-grade Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts. Although it hasn''t been stolen, its current storage location must remain confidential. To ensure its safety, I expect everyone to strengthen security, especially during the night."


    She paused, her expression turning slightly more severe. "No one is to enter the storage area without permission. Should any irregularities occur, you must report to me immediately."


    As she finished speaking, everyone nodded silently. The atmosphere grew tense, yet held an undercurrent of compliance.


    Finished, Lin Yueyao turned and gave Lin Rui a slight nod, signaling him to follow her beneath the massive Camellia tree in the garden, where the surrounding shade offered a slight coolness. She looked at Lin Rui quietly, her gaze a mixture of expectation and scrutiny. "Don''t disappoint me."


    Lin Rui smiled slightly, a touch of confidence and ease in his eyes.


    "Shouldn''t be a problem."


    Before the words fully left his mouth, he stretched lightly, as if preparing for the challenge ahead.


    Deep in the night, moonlight like water illuminated every leaf in the tea garden, but within this tranquility, the thief approached stealthily. He had planned meticulously, relying on a hidden spatial artifact and the powder used to control the Spirit Beast, lurking in a corner of the tea garden, ready to steal the Lin family''s precious Spirit Tea once more. By now, the thief had let his guard down, assuming everything was proceeding as usual.


    Just then, a small Spirit Beast¡ªa Spirit-Seeking Mouse¡ªappeared silently. Its fur held a faint purple sheen, its eyes gleaming with nimble light, clearly drawn by the "Spirit-Guiding Incense." It scurried cautiously towards a container holding the "Cloud Mist Spirit Sprouts."


    The instant the Spirit-Seeking Mouse was about to touch the container, it triggered the "Spirit-Trapping Formation." A faint tremor sealed the space in the immediate area. The mouse''s movements abruptly froze; it was firmly trapped.


    The thief, standing not far off, had a flash of astonishment and anxiety in his eyes. He clearly hadn''t expected the Lin family to lay a trap so quickly. The moment the Spirit-Seeking Mouse was caught, he knew he was in trouble. His plan to steal the sprouts using the Spirit Beast had completely failed.


    However, instead of fleeing immediately, the thief rushed towards the Spirit-Seeking Mouse, burning with anxiety. Seeing his Spirit Beast trapped, he almost instinctively wanted to break the formation, perhaps even erase all traces to avoid exposing himself. His movements were swift; like a phantom, he leaped towards the container, attempting to destroy the trap, perhaps even thinking to eliminate all clues by destroying the container itself.


    "Still too impatient, Zhao Xiu!" Lin Yueyao''s voice came coldly. The thief froze mid-action, finally realizing he was exposed.


    Zhao Xiu''s heart lurched, his face instantly paling. He hadn''t expected to fall into such a predicament through a moment''s carelessness. He was about to offer an explanation when Lin Rui cut him off.


    Lin Rui stood firm, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Zhao Xiu, you were certainly covert this time, but I saw through your whole charade long ago." His gaze sharp, he fixed on Zhao Xiu''s eyes and spoke slowly, as if recounting the solution to an intricate puzzle.


    "First, the role of the Spirit Beast was quite intriguing. The Spirit-Seeking Mouse is agile, true, but it''s still just a Spirit Beast. It can''t operate a spatial artifact on its own." Lin Rui''s eyes glinted slightly. "It needs a master to control it. Especially during the transfer of the Spirit Tea¡ªoperating a spatial artifact requires advanced skill. An ordinary cultivator couldn''t possibly manage it unless someone else was involved."


    Zhao Xiu''s expression shifted slightly; he clearly hadn''t expected Lin Rui to start there. But he held firm, a cold smirk still lingering on his lips.


    Lin Rui didn''t pause. "Then, there was that scent near Chen Laosan, different from the Spirit Tea. My cousin''s investigation confirmed he''s been meeting with you recently. And you carry that same scent. The Spirit-Seeking Mouse requires a special powder for control. Therefore, I made a bold guess: Chen Laosan must be your inside man."


    He paused, chuckling softly. "And the traces left by the fire artifact? Just a red herring, I suspect. The goal was to lead us into the woods to find that broken jade fragment, misleading us into thinking the Thousand Brilliance Merchant Guild or the Thunderlight Sect were behind it."


    Zhao Xiu''s face had completely darkened. "Impressive. You figured it all out?" His eyes flickered, a hint of resentment in his tone. "Young Master Lin, clever indeed. But you''ll never understand the true meaning behind all this."


    Lin Rui smiled faintly, wisdom gleaming in his eyes. "Actually, it''s the Myriad Medicines Alliance, isn''t it? They''ve been backing you all along. I investigated. The ''Spirit-Guiding Incense'' used to control the Spirit-Seeking Mouse is a unique creation of the Myriad Medicines Alliance. And you''re one of them."


    Zhao Xiu sneered, his voice low. "So what if you found out? Did you think I''d let you catch me easily?"


    Lin Rui had barely registered Zhao Xiu''s intent when he felt a surge of scorching Spirit Qi. The air filled with the turbulent energy of intertwining thunder and fire.


    "Thunderflame Rending Palm!" Zhao Xiu barked, suddenly striking out with his palm. Golden-red thunder-flames intertwined in his palm. Amidst leaping sparks of lightning, a violent surge of thunder-fire Spirit Qi shot out like a blazing thunder serpent, lunging straight for Lin Rui.


    But in that instant, a swift wind swept past. Lin Yueyao appeared like a phantom. With a flip of her fair hand, a wave of palm energy struck Lin Rui heavily on the shoulder, shoving him forcefully aside.


    "Don''t get in the way," her voice was crisp and cold.


    Simultaneously, she pivoted slightly, her sleeve fluttering as her right hand traced a Water Spirit Seal in front of her. Threads of ice-blue Spirit Qi gathered at her fingertips as she softly chanted, "Water Veil Protection, rise!"


    Instantly, an azure water veil materialized from thin air. Rippling water condensed into a crystal-clear barrier that completely engulfed Zhao Xiu''s thunder-flame palm force. The thunder-fire Spirit Qi plunged into the water veil, emitting a sizzling sound of evaporation. The flames rapidly diminished in the cold energy, dissipating into faint wisps of smoke.


    Zhao Xiu''s gaze was cold and sharp, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. He hadn''t expected Lin Yueyao''s Water Spirit Qi to neutralize his thunder-flame palm energy so easily. But the combat opportunity was fleeting. He quickly adjusted his footing, lightning flashing beneath his feet as he crouched low. With a sudden jolt of his arm, Spirit Qi surged violently, lightning arcs crackling from his fingertips, slithering out like venomous snakes.

 Chapter 13: Soul Binding Art - Thunder Shadow Soul Devour!

    "Thunderflame Soul-Devouring Spear!" Zhao Xiu snarled, striking abruptly.


    He stomped hard, using the force to charge forward, his entire body transforming into a streak of lightning, the thunder spear in his hand roiling with scorching thunder-flames as it pierced the air towards Lin Yueyao''s shoulder.


    The attack was incredibly fierce; an ordinary cultivator likely wouldn''t even have time to react.


    Yet, Lin Yueyao''s gaze remained cool. With a slight slip of her feet, her figure retreated gracefully like a ripple on water. At the same time, her sleeve fluttered as she brought two fingers together on her right hand. A blue water-light flowed from her fingertips as she chanted softly:


    "''Water ripples weave, cold poison hides deep, water blade breaks the foe, chilling qi bites the bone!''"


    Following a clear chime of water, a crescent-shaped water blade suddenly shot out from her palm, sharp Water Spirit Qi, wrapped in chilling intent, meeting Zhao Xiu''s thunder spear like a razor!


    Clang-!


    Lightning and water blade collided. Thunder-fire Spirit Qi splashed outwards as the water blade dispersed into flecks of ice, while Zhao Xiu''s thunder spear, eroded by the cold qi, lost much of its power. However, in the instant of their exchange, Zhao Xiu''s left palm suddenly flipped, another thunder-flame palm strike already formed. He stomped hard, twisted his waist, and sent the second palm, carrying scorching thunder-flames, striking towards Lin Yueyao''s side!


    Lin Yueyao snorted coldly. Tapping lightly with her foot, her figure abruptly spun like swirling water, evading Zhao Xiu''s surprise attack with incredibly nimble movement. Simultaneously, her right hand lashed out with a gust of water energy, striking fiercely towards Zhao Xiu''s chest!


    Bang!


    Zhao Xiu grunted, forced back several steps by the blow, a bone-chilling cold spreading through his chest. His expression changed slightly; he hadn''t expected Lin Yueyao''s Water Spirit Qi to carry the power of cold poison, instantly sealing a portion of his Spirit Qi circulation!


    "''So this is the Lin family''s Water Spirit Cold Art...''" Zhao Xiu muttered through gritted teeth, rapidly circulating his thunder-fire Spirit Qi to dispel the cold poison within him. Immediately after, his body abruptly sank, lightning exploding beneath his feet as he shot forward like an arrow loosed from the bowstring. His palms crossed, thunder-fire condensing within them as a turbulent wave of intertwining fire and thunder energy suddenly surged upwards!


    "''Thunderflame Engulfs Heaven, Fire Dragon Descends!''"


    With a furious roar, Zhao Xiu thrust both palms forward. Lightning crackled in the air. A ferocious thunder-flame dragon image rose from his palms, baring fangs and claws, carrying berserk thunder-fire power as it charged thunderously towards Lin Yueyao!


    Lin Yueyao''s expression turned sharp. Tapping the ground, she leaped up gracefully, sleeves fluttering. Her hands crossed, tracing a Spirit Qi vortex as she chanted softly:


    "''Water Veil protects, cold qi forms frost, heavenly bloom falls shadow, counter the strong foe!''"


    In an instant, a frost barrier condensed from Water Spirit Qi unfolded before her, layer upon layer shimmering like a glacier with a deep blue light. Penetrating cold filled the air, enveloping her completely.


    BOOM-!!


    The thunder-flame dragon slammed heavily into the water veil. Thunder-fire and cold qi clashed violently. Evaporating mist instantly filled the surroundings, lightning arcs scattered, and a series of low, muffled explosions echoed through the air.


    A cunning glint flashed in Zhao Xiu''s eyes. The hand seal in his palm suddenly changed, and the fire dragon abruptly exploded, transforming into dozens of fine streams of thunder-fire that bypassed the water veil like meteors, striking straight towards Lin Yueyao!


    "Not good!" Lin Yueyao instantly sensed the danger.


    The thunder-fire streams rained down densely, sealing off all her paths of retreat. If she tried to forcibly dodge, she would inevitably expose an opening! Acting decisively, she overlapped her palms, spun sharply, and gathered her Water Spirit Qi, condensing it into a shield like solid ice, attempting to block the fatal blow!


    However, Zhao Xiu was already poised for action.


    With a cold laugh, his palm technique abruptly shifted. Thunder-fire Spirit Qi surged, and an even more violent thunderbolt palm strike, accompanied by scorching flames, crashed down!


    Lin Yueyao couldn''t fully defend in time; the frost shield was pierced by the thunder-fire. Flames grazed her shoulder, instantly leaving a scorch mark on her sleeve. She grunted, taking a small step back.


    Pressing his advantage, Zhao Xiu didn''t let up. Lightning flashed as his figure darted forward. Stomping the ground like a thunderclap, he charged straight at Lin Yueyao, his five fingers wreathed in electric arcs aimed straight for her throat!


    "Thunderflame Void-Shattering Claw!"


    Lin Yueyao''s eyes turned cold. With a flip of her wrist, a silver-blue radiance instantly materialized between her fingers. Water Spirit Qi rapidly condensed, and a mirror artifact with a rippling surface appeared in her palm-the Cold Water Moon Shadow Mirror.


    "Frost Rebound! Bone-piercing Cold!"


    Following a low hum, the surface of the Cold Water Moon Shadow Mirror rippled gently like water, then suddenly erupted with a deep blue cold light, like a frigid tide swallowing all warmth between heaven and earth. Zhao Xiu''s Thunderflame Void-Shattering Claw slammed viciously towards the mirror''s surface, but it felt as if caught by an invisible current. The thunder-fire power was instantly devoured by the mirror, only to immediately backlash with even fiercer frost!


    "What?!" Zhao Xiu''s pupils contracted sharply. Caught completely off guard, he felt an icy, bone-piercing spiritual power surge back along the path of his own attack. The momentum of his thunder-flame instantly disintegrated, the scorching Spirit Qi freezing solid under the frost''s assault! His arm was encased in cold qi, the Spirit Qi in his fingertips stagnating. Frost spread along his meridians, cold poison invaded his flesh, and waves of bone-deep agony washed over him!


    He hurriedly activated his thunder-fire Spirit Qi to resist, barely forcing back the cold poison, but his face had already darkened.


    He stared at the mirror glowing with deep blue light and sneered, "Heh... so it''s the Moon Shadow Mirror. A Mortal Rank Mid-Grade defensive artifact. Not half bad." He glanced down at his frost-covered arm, the corner of his mouth tilting up slightly. "A pity it can only be used once a day."


    He slowly raised his eyes, fixing Lin Yueyao with a grim stare, his voice tinged with contempt. "You just wasted your life-saving chance like that? First Miss Lin, it seems you''re even more foolish than I imagined."


    Lin Yueyao lightly brushed the frost from her shoulder, a mocking smile touching her lips. "Why would I need a life-saving chance just to deal with you?"


    Lin Yueyao retracted the Cold Water Moon Shadow Mirror. Stomping her foot, she sent faint cracks spreading across the bluestone ground. Her figure shot towards Zhao Xiu like a gale. Her right hand opened slightly, Water Spirit Qi rapidly gathering, flowing and transforming into an azure whip that coiled around her fingers like a roaming dragon before lashing through the air, striking straight for Zhao Xiu''s midsection!


    "Ice Edge Whip Shadow! Sever Flow Like Frost!"


    The water whip tore through the air, carrying bone-chilling cold qi as it lashed towards Zhao Xiu with lightning speed!


    Zhao Xiu snorted coldly. With a jolt underfoot, lightning arcs crackled as he darted backward like a phantom, simultaneously crossing his palms forcefully. Thunder-fire surged, condensing into a blazing shield before him!


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    "Thunderflame Barrier!"


    The water whip struck viciously against the Thunderflame Barrier. Thunder-fire and cold current collided, sending up great clouds of steam. Zhao Xiu seized the moment, turning slightly, his gaze frigid. His palm flipped, lightning swirling around it, electric arcs surging wildly as he instantly gathered power for a fierce strike!


    "Thunderflame Void-Shattering Claw!"


    Violent lightning erupted, like a fierce beast tearing through the night, lunging straight at Lin Yueyao!


    Lin Yueyao''s pupils shrank. Her figure spun abruptly, water rippling beneath her feet as she utilized the flexible nature of Water Spirit Qi to slide aside like flowing water. With a light flip of her wrist, her left hand suddenly formed a seal. Water Spirit Qi flowed, instantly condensing into a floating water-mirror barrier!


    "Water Veil Heavenly Radiance! Mirrored Flow!"


    The Thunderflame Claw crashed into the water veil. Violent frost energy immediately surged back along the attack''s path, creating a backlash against Zhao Xiu''s arm. He felt a bone-deep chill pour into his meridians along with his own Spirit Qi, his fingertips instantly stagnating!


    Zhao Xiu''s expression changed slightly. Just as he was about to retreat, Lin Yueyao gave a cold smile. Her water whip lifted, then suddenly spiraled back, coiling upwards like a spirit snake to wrap tightly around Zhao Xiu''s arm. Cold poison seeped through his skin, freezing his Spirit Qi circulation!


    "Ice Frost Soul Lock!"


    Zhao Xiu cursed inwardly. With a jolt of his right arm, lightning surged violently as he barely resisted the cold poison''s erosion. However, he realized that if this dragged on, he would only become more passive!


    His eyes hardened. He abruptly clapped his palms together. Lightning arcs crackled as the Spirit Qi around him vibrated wildly. Space began to twist unstably, and a mysterious spirit glyph appeared beneath his feet!


    "Spatial Distortion Art-Shadow Thunder Instant Kill!"


    Zhao Xiu''s figure suddenly blurred. Forcibly breaking free from the water whip''s bind, he instantly flashed to Lin Yueyao''s side-rear flank. Lightning flickered rapidly. A Thunderflame Dagger condensed in his palm, carrying destructive spiritual pressure as it stabbed straight towards the side of her neck!


    Lin Yueyao''s gaze was icy, utterly unfazed. With a slight turn of her wrist, Water Spirit Qi formed a vortex barrier at her side. Her left leg sank slightly, her body sliding down with the movement, allowing the Thunderflame Dagger to skim past, brushing against strands of her hair. The scorching aura grazed the side of her neck, raising a faint wisp of smoke!


    "Hmph!" Zhao Xiu sneered. Pressing his advantage, he advanced rapidly, thrusting out his left palm, thunder-flame exploding within it as he abruptly changed tactics-


    "Thunderflame Soul Devour!"


    Violent thunder-fire carried a distorted spiritual pressure, space trembled, and a powerful suction force suddenly surged. Killing intent naked in his eyes, Zhao Xiu attempted to completely seal off Lin Yueyao''s retreat!


    But in that very instant, Lin Yueyao''s mouth curved slightly. The water whip coiled back like a spirit snake, smoothly wrapping around Zhao Xiu''s ankle before fiercely pulling!


    "Water Bind Flowing Shadow!"


    Zhao Xiu''s Spirit Qi faltered beneath him, and his body abruptly lost balance. His expression changed drastically. Just as he tried to stabilize himself, Lin Yueyao twisted her wrist, the water whip lashing out swiftly like a spear piercing the void, striking straight for his chest!


    Zhao Xiu cursed inwardly again, rolling sharply to dodge, but he was still grazed by the whip. Bone-chilling power instantly permeated his skin, obstructing his Spirit Qi circulation once more!


    Zhao Xiu''s face was grim. He knew clearly that if he continued this direct confrontation, his energy consumption would only increase. He had to turn the tables quickly!


    Suddenly, his palms trembled slightly, and the lightning abruptly converged. The spirit glyph beneath his feet spun rapidly, the space around him twisting faintly. In an instant, his figure became an afterimage and vanished from the spot!


    "Spatial Distortion Art-Illusory Shadow Flash Step!"


    Lin Yueyao instantly sensed the anomaly. Her gaze swept around, only to find Zhao Xiu''s figure was nowhere in sight!


    The next instant-


    "Lin Rui, watch out!!" She spun around abruptly, her eyes suddenly fierce!


    Lin Rui felt a bone-chilling killing intent assault him from behind. His heart sank, and a cold dread crawled up his spine!


    Zhao Xiu''s figure, like a swift lightning shadow, appeared unexpectedly behind Lin Rui. Thunder-fire coiled in his palm, scorching electric arcs instantly condensing into a thunderbolt chain. The chain, wreathed in blazing flames, coiled like a venomous snake as it shot straight towards Lin Rui''s divine soul!


    "Soul Binding Art-Thunder Shadow Soul Devour!"


    Zhao Xiu gave a low shout as the thunder-flame chain shot out explosively. The air seemed to freeze, Spirit Qi vibrated violently, and space itself felt torn apart by the thunder-fire power!


    Lin Rui''s pupils contracted sharply. His limbs felt imprisoned, the thunder-fire aura locking directly onto his soul. He wanted to dodge, but found his consciousness being distorted by that bizarre spiritual power. It felt as if an invisible pressure was pinning him down, rendering him immobile!


    Life and death hung in an instant!


    "Army-Breaking Gale!"


    A furious roar tore through the night! A violent wind surged as a sharp blade light, carrying piercing wind pressure, slashed down through the air!


    Zheng-!


    An arc of silver light ripped through the sky like a gale sweeping the battlefield, slashing straight towards Zhao Xiu''s wrist!


    Pfft!


    Blood splashed. Zhao Xiu grunted, retreating explosively as half his sleeve, along with flesh and blood, was torn away by the blade light. His expression changed drastically as he stared at his severed right hand, fury and shock filling his eyes!


    At that moment, a burly figure darted over, landing firmly in front of Lin Rui. His feet stomped hard onto the ground, instantly cracking the bluestone pavement beneath him!


    It was-Lin Hu!


    He gripped a large great saber with both hands. The blade was dark gold, wide and thick, flowing with Violent Wind Spirit Qi, and the hilt was inlaid with unique Lin family runes. The blade''s name was-


    The Wind-Splitting Mountain-Cleaving Blade, Mortal Rank Mid-Grade. Its body contained the power of violent winds, and swinging the blade could generate wind pressure, enhancing its destructive force. Specialized in heavy slashes and breaking defenses!


    Lin Hu stood holding the saber, his gaze as fierce as a tiger''s, his killing intent overwhelming.


    "A Thunder-Flame cultivator? You dare run wild on Lin family territory? Courting death!"


    Zhao Xiu gritted his teeth, forcefully enduring the intense pain. He gathered his thunder-fire Spirit Qi again, just about to adjust his condition, when Lin Hu struck once more!


    "Wind-Splitting Slash-Raging Waves Trio!"


    Lin Hu took a sudden step forward, swinging the Wind-Splitting Mountain-Cleaving Blade horizontally through the air. The force of the slash was incomparably fierce, instantly unleashing three sharp wind blades that layered like raging waves in a storm, sealing off Zhao Xiu''s room to evade!


    Zhao Xiu''s expression changed. Knowing full well that meeting the attack head-on would only worsen his injuries, he hastily retreated, simultaneously thrusting out his left palm as lightning burst from its center!


    "Thunder Shadow Escape Form!"


    Lightning flashed, and his figure transformed into a lightning phantom, rapidly skimming towards the center of the area!


    "Trying to escape?!" Lin Hu barked coldly. Just as he was about to give chase, he suddenly heard the Lin family guards shout loudly in unison-


    "Form Array-Spirit-Sealing Wood-Binding Formation!"


    The surrounding Lin family guards were already prepared! Twelve guards leaped into the area simultaneously, wielding Green Vine Wood Staffs-the Lin family''s unique formation medium. These staffs, crafted from special spirit wood, contained potent plant spirit power and specialized in sealing and confinement.


    The guards stepped onto activating spirit glyphs, striking the ground in unison with their Green Vine Wood Staffs. Spirit Qi surged. The ground suddenly split open, and countless emerald vines burst forth like writhing pythons, instantly coiling towards Zhao Xiu!


    Zhao Xiu''s expression changed drastically again. He could clearly feel the surrounding Spirit Qi being forcefully suppressed. Moreover, these vines were not only incredibly tough but also contained Spirit-Sealing Power. Once entangled, circulating his Spirit Qi would become extremely difficult!


    "Damn it!" Zhao Xiu roared inwardly, realizing he was completely surrounded!


    Lin Hu stood outside the formation''s edge, slowly raising the Wind-Splitting Mountain-Cleaving Blade. Its edge gleamed with a grim cold light, his gaze frigid. "A Thunder-Flame cultivator? Is that all you''ve got?"


    Zhao Xiu''s eyes flickered. Knowing he couldn''t delay any longer, his palms trembled slightly as he swiftly took out an ancient-looking jade disk. The disk was covered in complex spatial patterns, with a dark gold crystal embedded in the center that faintly pulsed with distorted ripples.


    "Boundary Rending Disk, help me escape!"


    Zhao Xiu shouted, fiercely pouring his remaining thunder-fire Spirit Qi into it! Instantly, the jade disk flared with brilliant light! A black spatial rift abruptly tore open beneath his feet, like an abyss about to swallow his figure!


    However, just as he was about to step into the rift-


    Backlash!


    Space suddenly trembled violently, and a bizarre backlash force erupted!


    Pfft-!


    Zhao Xiu''s face turned deathly pale in an instant as he violently spurted a mouthful of blood! His feet were already engulfed by the rift, but the spatial power tore at his body like Soul-Devouring Blades!


    "Wh-what''s happening?!" Zhao Xiu''s pupils shrank as he looked in horror at the Boundary Rending Disk in his hand. But now, the jade disk was covered in cracks! The once-brilliant crystal was dim, its runes rapidly disintegrating!


    "Damn it! They actually tricked me-"


    Before his horrified cry could finish, the spatial rift suddenly expanded explosively. Violent tearing forces instantly engulfed his entire body. His flesh and blood were pulverized by the distorted spatial power. Not even his Primordial Spirit could escape, turning to nothingness in an instant!


    It was as if he had never existed!


    Hiss-!


    Both Lin Yueyao and Lin Hu''s expressions changed slightly. They leaped simultaneously to the spot to investigate. However, on the ground, apart from the rapidly closing spatial rift, not even a single drop of blood remained.


    Zhao Xiu had vanished completely.


    Lin Rui, just recovering from his astonishment, slowly walked over and crouched down. He touched the charred edges of the fading rift with his fingertips, his brow deeply furrowed as he muttered:


    "It''s over... Witness and evidence, all gone. Not even dust left behind. More thorough than destroying a corpse and erasing all traces."


    Lin Yueyao snorted coldly, crossing her arms, a hint of impatience in her eyes.


    "What else can be done? At least there''s still one live captive."


    She tilted her head, glancing towards the edge of the area where Chen Laosan was being held firmly by several Lin family guards.


    "Hand him over to my father. At least this mission will have some sort of conclusion."