Chapter 96
by post_apiChapter 96: Cultivating Spiritual Power for Rain-Taking Technique
The Yang Family used three diamond talismans and two mountain-opening talismans this time.
Two second-rate mountain-opening talismans were acquired through Gao Hui, who traded a commendation document from the recent suppression of an evil cultivator at the Dynasty Treasury.
The remaining three diamond talismans were said to have been purchased by the Yang Family themselves from the Yulingjiang marketplace for Yang Lingrui’s protection.
No flaws would be found if investigated, as Yang Lingqing had indeed sent Yang Linghu to buy three diamond talismans and three mountain-opening talismans (two of each) six months earlier, spending over a thousand spiritual crystals.
This ensured all five talismans had clear origins, avoiding suspicion while showing the dynasty the Yang Family’s commitment to the plan.
Not only had they efficiently completed the dynasty’s task, but they’d also invested heavily to handle unexpected threats.
Most importantly, these preparations proved vital during the Solitary Moon Mountain incident.
“Since Lord He personally named Yang Lingrui, the Yang Family naturally prioritized this matter.”
Gao Hui stepped forward, adding praise:
“Having known them for years, I can say they’re unlike other self-made families. They know their place, follow rules, and prioritize the greater good. Once the dynasty gives orders, they act without hesitation.”
He Shenglai nodded, fiddling with the repaired storage bag.
“I prefer dealing with sensible families. No wasted words or force—everything gets done properly.”
As they spoke, He Shenglai’s waist token glowed. The dynasty’s communication spiritual treasure required only a touch of divine awareness to relay messages.
He Shenglai narrowed his eyes briefly before breaking into a wider smile.
“Hah! Solitary Moon Mountain’s disciples are stumbling everywhere—even heavy losses like Baishi’s casualties. A rough outing!”
He turned to Gao Hui. “Does the Yang Family feud with Solitary Moon Mountain? Yang Lingrui struck ruthlessly.”
“No feud. The Yangs barely interact with them.”
Gao Hui paused. “But Yang Lingrui was close to the Li Family’s late second young master, Li Cheng.”
“Ah.”
At Li Cheng’s name, He Shenglai understood. Solitary Moon Mountain had caused the Li Family’s collapse, even manipulating Li Cheng’s death behind the scenes.
Yang Lingrui’s hatred made sense now. The He Family hadn’t wanted the Li Family’s downfall either.
Li Yuande had been talented in his youth, and his descendants Li Qingwan and Li Cheng showed equal promise. Given thirty more years, they might’ve become a new dynasty household.
He Shenglai’s mind shifted to the Yang Family.
The Li support failed, but the Yangs were ripe for cultivation. Their rapid growth and Talisman Inheritance already placed them above most self-made clans. Yang Lingrui, having taken the cleansing elixir, now had the potential to reach Condensing Essence.
With dynasty Support, pulling them into the fold now could forge a future powerhouse. For He Shenglai personally, nurturing the Yangs might create a loyal faction to aid his career.
He Shenglai’s plan took shape.
“Gao Hui, come with me for a visit.”
“Lord He, where are we going?”
“To the Yang Family.”
He Shenglai explained, “The dynasty’s official rewards will take time to arrive. I’ll pay them a courtesy visit first.”
At the restricted cliffside grounds of the Songshan Yang Family,
Zhao Qi hurried to report upon seeing Gao Hui and He Shenglai approaching the formation. Yang Lingqing immediately led all Yang Family cultivators out to greet them.
“Yang Lingqing pays respects to Lord He.”
“Oh? You’re the current head of the Yang Family?”
Having interacted twice with the Yang Family previously, He Shenglai now met Yang Lingqing for the first time. Though uncommon, a woman leading a prominent family didn’t surprise him.
“Have you handled all preparations and strategies since your Elder passed away?”
“Yes, my lord.”
“Good! The Yang Family truly produces capable successors.” He Shenglai smiled approvingly.
“You flatter us, Lord He. Our achievements stem from the dynasty’s support and your personal guidance.”
Yang Lingqing deliberately emphasized “dynasty” and “Lord He” rather than mentioning the He Family. Noticing this distinction, He Shenglai’s eyes sparkled with approval.
“Excellent! Show me around this familiar place.”
“As you wish, Lord He.”
The restricted area had changed significantly since He Shenglai’s last visit. Yang Lingqing guided him through until they reached the spiritual plant garden.
He Shenglai frowned at seeing the three spiritual fields. “This is how you cultivate spiritual plants?”
The Yang Family’s three specimens – four-leafed spirit-receiving grass, Resurrection Grass, and Purple Celestial Flower – grew in separate fields to prevent competition for spiritual energy.
Yang Lingqing’s group flushed with embarrassment. Their cultivation methods, arranged by Old Yu through experience rather than expertise, included stable formations and regular soil treatments. To He Shenglai from Wanzhong Forest, these crude methods would’ve incurred punishment in the He Family.
Gao Hui interjected, “Most independent families cultivate this way, Lord He.”
“Hmm.” He Shenglai studied the plants before brightening. “This wastefully consumes their lifespan. You harvest without helping them advance.”
Producing a jade slip, he declared, “While He Family secrets remain restricted, this Cultivating Spiritual Power for Rain-Taking Technique can be shared. Apply it thrice monthly to nurture their advancement.”
Yang Lingqing bowed deeply to receive it. “Our gratitude for Lord He’s teaching!”
He Shenglai gestured at the four-leafed grass. “Prioritize this one. Its early growth shows rare fortune. With this method, it should reach mid-stage of gathering energy within months.”
“Understood! Thank you for your guidance!”
Yang Lingqing’s gratitude held sincerity. Without this advice, the Yang Family would’ve squandered their plants’ potential. That He Shenglai personally assessed their needs surpassed the indifference of distant superiors.