Chapter 230: Core Formation Trading Gathering
Inside the cave abode.
Lin Changan sat cross-legged inside a large vat.
However, the vat was not filled with the medicinal bath commonly used by cultivators for body refinement, but rather with spiritual earth, and his entire body, even his head, was buried within it.
At the same time, this dark brown spiritual earth emitted a faint medicinal fragrance.
Lin Changan circulated the Art of Body Refinement, causing strands of greenish-red crystalline light to shimmer across his skin.
Meanwhile, the color of the spiritual earth in the vat was gradually dimming.
“This Art of Body Refinement is rather unorthodox, though it indeed fits the wood attribute—accumulating slowly and unleashing in one burst.”
Finally, as this session of cultivation ended, Lin Changan rose from the earth and slowly stepped out.
He cast the Clear Breeze Technique, cleansing all the dirt from his body.
“It's just that cultivating this method makes me feel like a spirit plant.”
Lin Changan shook his head, though he wasn’t surprised.
In the world of cultivation, many techniques had unique body refinement methods. For instance, he knew of one that required soaking in all kinds of spiritual sand to temper the body.
His, by contrast, merely required being buried in spiritual earth.
By using spiritual earth to dilute the impurities in demon beast blood, the cultivator's body acted like a spirit plant, absorbing its essence.
Simply put, body refinement progressed slowly, so all kinds of special methods had been developed. Some relied on medicinal baths, others on demon beast blood, and still others on spiritual sand.
“As expected of the blood of a third-rank demon beast—cultivation speed increased dramatically.”
Since he couldn’t sell the blood of this third-rank Emerald Alligator Turtle, Lin Changan didn’t want to waste it. Using it to accelerate body refinement yielded surprisingly good results.
Feeling the strength surging in his body, Lin Changan took a deep breath. The blood from this third-rank demon beast was just beginning—enough to last him a good while.
Just then, Hu Jin’s voice came from the voice-transmission jade talisman.
“Old Lin, the grand event on Five Dragon Island is about to begin. Let’s go, but we still have to be careful. Once we get the materials we need, we should get ready to make our escape…”
Hearing Hu Jin’s voice, Lin Changan nodded silently.
It wasn’t that Hu Jin was overly cautious—rather, the Five Dragon Island sea region truly wasn’t a place to linger.
Although all of the Sea Abyss of Beasts was like this, the issue was Long Changfeng’s death last time, and now that they had materials from the third-rank Emerald Alligator Turtle, it was like holding a scorching hot potato.
If things went badly, they’d be targeted by the massive Long Clan. For small fries like them, it was best to leave.
“Just like Old Hu said, it's time to prepare for departure. But before that, we must go to this Five Dragon Island event.”
The auction held on Five Dragon Island was said to offer all sorts of pill formulas, especially one for the Crystal Condensing Pill, which deeply tempted him.
Ordinarily, pill formulas of that level were tightly guarded by the major clans and sects. Obtaining one usually came at a steep price.
But now, it could be bought with spirit stones. Naturally, he wouldn’t miss the chance.
“Something seems to be happening at this Five Dragon Island gathering!”
Recalling Yun Yao’s earlier warning, Lin Changan fell into silent contemplation.
This Five Dragon Island gathering was being held under the pretense of celebrating the birthdays of the Two Palace Masters of Bihai Palace, with three auctions scheduled during the event.
One every three months, lasting a total of nine months.
“Moreover, even if we wanted to leave, we’d have to go to Five Dragon Island to board a large spirit ship.”
The Sea Abyss of Beasts was vast—just crossing two sea regions meant a great distance. Traveling alone was extremely dangerous unless one was a Core Formation cultivator.
Beasts in the sea and birds in the sky constantly searched for prey.
Not to mention the ever-changing weather on the sea—once swept into gale winds, even Core Formation cultivators would suffer immensely.
And long-distance travel meant spiritual power couldn’t be replenished easily. A fatigued body drastically reduced one’s ability to handle external dangers.
There were even robber cultivators, villains, and fugitives roaming the borders of the sea regions—some led by Core Formation cultivators, looting and plundering.
In short, even Core Formation cultivators usually traveled by spirit ship or in groups when crossing sea regions.
Furthermore, Five Dragon Island’s gathering included a trading event for False Core cultivators—a prime opportunity to exchange for a wood-attribute demon core.
“In other words, no matter what, I have to go to Five Dragon Island.”
While Hu Jin already had thoughts of leaving, Lin Changan pondered silently. For him, the Fog Sea of Tongtian might be the perfect place to cultivate.
But gathering more information first wouldn’t hurt.
After tidying up, he and Hu Jin set out together toward Five Dragon Island.
…
As the Five Dragon Island gathering drew near, merchant ships and cultivators came in an endless stream. The moment Lin Changan set foot on the island, he felt its liveliness.
“Second-rank demon beast leather armor—this quality is intact.”
“Second-rank low-grade pill—great for advancing cultivation…”
On the marketplace streets, cultivators loudly peddled their demon beast materials everywhere.
Though long accustomed to such scenes, Lin Changan couldn’t help but marvel—different lands nurtured different people. In the Sea Abyss of Beasts, whether in artifact crafting, pill refinement, or cultivation, most resources were demon beast materials.
Even pill formulas had long been adapted to substitute rare herbs with various beast materials.
Upon arriving, Lin Changan and Hu Jin disguised themselves and entered separately. They agreed to leave once the first auction ended.
“This gathering is truly rare—some extremely rare materials have appeared.”
Walking the streets, Lin Changan nodded silently. After purchasing the materials he needed and gathering intel, he left Five Dragon Island.
But after circling around outside, he reappeared as a cultivator exuding False Core aura.
“Greetings, Senior!”
“Greetings, Senior!”
Countless cultivators headed toward Five Dragon Island. Upon spotting a False Core cultivator flying elegantly on a sword—without using light-escape—they all respectfully greeted him, many eyes filled with envy.
Some cultivators flying at higher altitudes even hurriedly descended.
Lin Changan noticed all of this but remained indifferent, flying toward Five Dragon Island, ignoring the Foundation Establishment cultivators.
Once his figure vanished, many Foundation Establishment cultivators were still envious, though some murmured quietly.
“This must be a newly advanced Core Formation senior.”
“One day, I’ll be like that too!”
Lin Changan’s behavior perfectly matched a newly formed Core cultivator enjoying his vanity.
After all, the world of cultivation was vast—there were all kinds of cultivators.
There were even rumors of legendary Nascent Soul cultivators disguising themselves as Qi Refining cultivators to mingle with rogue cultivators.
Many Treasures Pavilion.
“Greetings, Senior.”
This time, Lin Changan had disguised himself as an unfamiliar False Core cultivator. Thus, upon arriving at Xuanyin Pavilion’s Many Treasures Pavilion, the shopkeeper didn’t recognize him.
“I heard Xuanyin Pavilion is hosting a trading gathering for Core Formation cultivators before the event?”
Major sects and clans often had Core Formation cultivators use their connections to host gatherings before such events—for recruitment or relationship-building.
Lin Changan had known of this even during his Foundation Establishment days.
Now that he had disguised himself as a False Core cultivator, he naturally wanted to take a look. If luck was on his side and he found exactly what he needed, he wouldn’t stay here another moment.
“Senior is here for the trading gathering, then.”
The shopkeeper wore a broad smile—False Core cultivators were very welcome at Xuanyin Pavilion.
Their strength was neither too high nor too low—perfect for Xuanyin Pavilion’s interests.
“Senior, the trading gathering is scheduled for the day before the auction, right here on the top floor. A formation barrier will conceal everything, and one of our sect’s elders will personally host it.”
After the respectful report, Lin Changan nodded hoarsely.
“Very well. I’ll return here tomorrow on time.”
“Take care, Senior. Xuanyin Pavilion will be honored to welcome you.”
Exiting Many Treasures Pavilion, Lin Changan noticed the respectful gazes from passersby—some even bowing from a distance—which greatly pleased him.
“In the world of cultivation, strength really is everything. With power, all paths are open.”
Though his False Core status was somewhat false, the Wind-Chirp Bird in his spirit beast pouch was an authentic third-rank spirit pet.
So enjoying the respect and bows of others, he did so with a clear conscience.
“Though it seems, this time it won’t be Fairy of Rainbow Skirt, but another elder instead.”
The last reminder from Xuanyin Pavilion—he had always remembered this favor.
This visit to Xuanyin Pavilion was partly out of that sentiment, but more importantly, it was the safest place.
If he had gone to the Long Clan on Five Dragon Island, he would’ve feared being recognized.
After all, the Long Clan had a total of seven Core Formation cultivators and was indeed immensely powerful.
Meanwhile, this elder from Xuanyin Pavilion was only at mid Core Formation stage, and located at the island’s edge. If anything happened, the Wind-Chirp Bird could easily carry him away.
With the escape speed of a flying spirit pet like the Wind-Chirp Bird, it was extremely fast. That was precisely why he was confident this time.
Then Lin Changan began purchasing resources. In the eyes of others, however, it seemed as if he were buying on behalf of a junior, since many of the items were second-rank.
…
The next day, under the scorching sun.
The Five Dragon Island gathering grew livelier by the day.
Today, Many Treasures Pavilion had unexpectedly closed its doors, yet no one dared to question it.
Because Many Treasures Pavilion hadn’t kept it a secret—today, a trading gathering exclusively for Core Formation cultivators would be held inside the pavilion, so they naturally wouldn’t entertain regular guests.
Though it seemed like a day’s loss in profits, in truth, it brought even greater influence to Xuanyin Pavilion.
Lin Changan also arrived as promised.
“Senior, please head upstairs.”
Several Foundation Establishment female cultivators from Xuanyin Pavilion stood respectfully at the entrance, greeting guests.
After Lin Changan entered, a young, beautiful female cultivator—who had only recently reached Foundation Establishment—led him upstairs with a sweet smile.
“Senior, seating for this trading gathering is not assigned by rank.”
The subtext was almost blatant—it made no distinctions in status.
After sitting down, Lin Changan nodded inwardly—Xuanyin Pavilion truly knew how to handle things.
He saw that the seats on the top floor were arranged according to the five elements and eight trigrams—flawlessly executed.
At the same time, a soundproofing formation barrier made it impossible for anyone outside to investigate the interior.
Each table had top-grade spirit fruits and spirit wine.
Next to them stood delicate, beautiful female disciples serving tea and drinks.
At the center, a graceful female cultivator danced an enchanting immortal dance.
“Greetings, fellow Daoist.”
Upon Lin Changan’s arrival, a middle-aged beautiful woman in her forties or fifties raised her cup with a smile.
This was the elder of Xuanyin Pavilion, also the current master of Fairy of Rainbow Skirt.
Lin Changan did not dare show any disrespect. He raised his cup respectfully and said, “Greetings, fellow Daoist.”
True Core cultivators had always looked down upon False Core cultivators. Yet this person, at mid Core Formation stage, still greeted him with a smile despite his False Core status. Naturally, he wouldn’t be impolite.
As more guests arrived, there were a total of eleven.
It seemed like a fair number, but upon noticing the many empty seats, Lin Changan saw the truth clearly.
It seemed Xuanyin Pavilion’s position on Five Dragon Island wasn’t doing well.
“Fellow Daoists, thank you all for gracing us with your presence today. This one offers a toast to all of you.”
Though few had come, the elder from Xuanyin Pavilion showed no change in expression and raised her cup with a cheerful smile.
Among the eleven, aside from this elder, ten were False Core cultivators and one was a True Core cultivator.
That True Core cultivator had a proud look between his brows—clearly he looked down on the rest.
As soon as he set down his wine cup, he couldn’t help but speak softly:
“It’s long been said that Fairy of Rainbow Skirt is the most beautiful female cultivator on Five Dragon Island. Yet she is absent today—how truly disappointing.”
Only a True Core cultivator would dare to speak so audaciously.
The other False Core cultivators didn’t show much reaction.
Yet facing this person, the Xuanyin Pavilion elder simply smiled and set down her wine cup, saying:
“Rainbow Skirt has recently gained some insights in her cultivation and is currently in seclusion, attempting to break through a bottleneck. Naturally, she could not attend.”
As these words fell, many people’s expressions changed.
Even the proud-faced True Core cultivator stiffened slightly, then cupped his hands and said, “To think Fairy of Rainbow Skirt is already preparing to break through to mid Core Formation—my admiration.”
The other False Core cultivators also seemed deep in thought as they looked at Xuanyin Pavilion.
It seemed this pavilion held great potential.
Upon hearing this, Lin Changan grew even more envious. When he first entered the world of cultivation, it was tales of her genius at Foundation Establishment that he heard.
By the time he reached Foundation Establishment, she had already reached Core Formation.
Now, just as he was scheming toward Core Formation, she was already advancing her cultivation.
“Heaven-grade Spirit Root cultivator—such talent truly defies logic.”
Though envious, Lin Changan’s gaze turned resolute.
So what if it was a Heaven-grade Spirit Root? He possessed exceptional talent and the Mysterious Sky Immortal Vine—his future achievements might not be any lesser.
“Fellow Daoists have come from afar—not merely for our pavilion’s fine wine, I presume. Let us begin the trading now.
Later, if any fellow Daoist wishes to stay and enjoy our wine, there will be plenty of spirit wine and fruits to go around.”
With a relaxed smile, the elder from Xuanyin Pavilion officially announced the start of the trading gathering.
Among the eleven, some were clearly acquaintances, exchanging secret voice transmissions.
Others, like Lin Changan, were alone, silently observing others.
At that moment, a burly False Core cultivator suddenly grinned and said:
“In that case, allow me to break the ice and show my humble offering.”
The yellow-robed burly man raised his hand, and a finely crafted jade box the size of a palm flew from his storage pouch.
As the box opened, many gasped in surprise.
“A third-rank low-grade water-attribute demon core!”
Many of the False Core cultivators secretly grew alert.
Despite all being False Core cultivators, third-rank demon beasts were notoriously difficult to deal with—especially water-dwelling ones.
Even those among them adept at aquatic combat fell short compared to native water-type beasts.
Thus, when they fought third-rank demon beasts, they always acted with extreme caution—choosing only the isolated, wounded, or elderly targets when possible.
Lin Changan was inwardly startled as well—this was truly a Core Formation-level trading gathering. It was on an entirely different level from those Foundation Establishment ones he had attended.
“This third-rank low-grade water-attribute demon core—I wish to exchange it for materials used in crafting magic treasures. Does any fellow Daoist have such materials?”
With a grin, the yellow-robed burly man stated his request directly.
Several False Core cultivators whispered among themselves via transmission, but in the end, none were willing to make a trade.
Just then, the elder from Xuanyin Pavilion looked at the group and chuckled:
“Since all of you are being so courteous, then our Xuanyin Pavilion shall take this item. This old one knows a bit about alchemy and has spent years researching Sea Abyss pill formulas, gaining some insights.
With this third-rank demon core, I should be able to refine several bottles of pills.”
With a wave of her hand, a luminous item appeared in her grasp as she smiled and said:
“Fellow Daoist, does this item suit your needs?”
Iron Essence!
Lin Changan had not spent his years cultivating alone—he recognized many materials used in crafting magic treasures.
At a glance, he identified it immediately.
The yellow-robed burly man beamed with joy upon seeing it.
“Haha, if the elder is willing to trade, I couldn’t be more pleased!”
After the first transaction concluded, others began bringing out their treasures in hopes of acquiring what they needed.
However, since False Core cultivators could no longer progress, only those with fortunate encounters and who used secret arts to reconsolidate a True Core could continue their cultivation.
But such cases were rare. Most False Core cultivators were stuck at their current stage for life.
Thus, once their cultivation stagnated, most joined factions to enjoy the rest of their years or started families.
Therefore, the majority of their needs were for their descendants.
“I need pills to increase cultivation—preferably third-rank low-grade. If not available, then quasi–third-rank or second-rank high-grade would suffice. I’m willing to pay with spirit stones.”
This was a False Core cultivator planning for his descendants.
“This Coral Spike was the weapon favored by the third-rank demon beast Infant Carp in the deep sea. It’s an exceptional treasure. I obtained it by luck and wish to exchange it for a spirit herb…”
One cultivator after another brought out treasures to trade, leaving Lin Changan dazzled. Only now did he realize—he was still just a pauper.
Among rogue Foundation Establishment cultivators, he might have been wealthy. But among Core Formation cultivators—even False Core ones—he was still terribly poor.
While observing others’ treasures, Lin Changan also secretly gathered information about the Core Formation cultivators.
“False Core cultivators are still human. Once their cultivation hits a wall, many become the anchors of their clans, unwilling to act rashly. Thus, not all cultivators are wealthy.”
At this thought, Lin Changan’s eyes flickered. The world of cultivation had always been like this.
For instance, that yellow-robed man who dared hunt third-rank demon beasts with others—his foundation was clearly solid.
But some False Core cultivators, burdened by responsibilities, could only remain within the clan, ensuring peace for hundreds of years—leading to near poverty.
Some poor False Core cultivators couldn’t even afford a single magic treasure in their lifetime, placing their combat strength at the very bottom.
When it was Lin Changan’s turn, he let out a raspy chuckle and raised his hand, revealing a jade box.
“I’d like to exchange this item plus some spirit stones for two third-rank low-grade wood-attribute demon cores.”
As the jade box opened, all the cultivators present turned their heads, full of astonishment—it was no less shocking than the earlier water-attribute demon core.