Chapter 13: Chapter 13: Preparation for Immortal Cultivation
Lu Fan had come to a crucial realization: in order to continue progressing in his Qi cultivation, he needed access to a place with a spiritual vein, a rare and essential resource that could provide the necessary energy to refine his body and boost his cultivation. His valley, though peaceful, lacked such a vein, and he knew that staying there would only slow his growth. After considering his options, Lu Fan decided to leave the valley behind and venture toward the heart of cultivator territories. There, in the bustling cities controlled by powerful cultivation families, he hoped to find a place rich in spiritual energy, where he could push his limits and advance to the next level.
His first destination was Lianhua City, a renowned hub of cultivation where experts gathered and knowledge flourished. It was the perfect place for a cultivator like Lu Fan, who was seeking to expand his horizons. But he was aware of the dangers that lurked in such a city—cultivators with different goals, some friendly, some hostile. To prepare for this unknown, Lu Fan began making meticulous plans for his journey.
His first task was hunting low-level beasts in the nearby forest. The beasts he sought were relatively weak, but their meat and materials would be essential for his survival. He hunted diligently, collecting meat for sustenance and other parts that could prove useful for crafting. He also obtained several items from the beasts that could be turned into materials for his explosive devices, including animal bones and certain herbs with high potency.
After securing the necessary supplies, Lu Fan turned his attention to crafting fertilizer bombs. These bombs, although not truly explosive in the traditional sense, could be used to create powerful bursts of energy when triggered. He had purchased the necessary materials online, as Amazzone didn't sell explosives, but it did provide all the ingredients required for a makeshift creation. Using his knowledge of alchemy, he carefully mixed the ingredients, ensuring the devices would be potent but controlled. He stored these bombs in his storage space, ready for use if needed.
Next, Lu Fan began preparing his escape route from Lianhua City. He knew that a city filled with cultivators, especially those with a strong foundation, might be dangerous for someone like him. He couldn't be certain of the allies he would make or the enemies he might encounter. To ensure a quick getaway if things went awry, Lu Fan studied the layout of the city and pinpointed several routes that would be ideal for a swift escape. He meticulously buried bombs along these escape paths—bombs that would trigger upon a simple pressure change. These would create a distraction, buying him enough time to escape if he was pursued.
With everything in place, Lu Fan made his final preparations. He packed a sufficient amount of food and water, which he stored in his spatial ring, along with several of his crafted bombs. The food would provide nourishment in case he found himself trapped in the city and unable to access supplies.
After a final inspection of his supplies, Lu Fan made his way to Lianhua City. The path was treacherous, but he had planned for it. As he approached the city gates, he was careful to avoid attracting attention. Upon entering Lianhua City, Lu Fan blended in with the crowds, keeping a low profile. The bustling city was home to cultivators of all levels, but Lu Fan's focus was clear: he needed to find the right people, the right techniques, and learn what he could about the realm of Immortal cultivation.
For now, though, he knew that the most important thing was to stay hidden, to bide his time, and to gather the knowledge and strength necessary for his next steps.
As Lu Fan walked through the streets of Lianhua City, his eyes scanned the bustling crowds. The air was thick with the scent of herbs, the clatter of blacksmiths working in their forges, and the occasional roar of beasts being auctioned off. Lianhua City was alive with the energy of cultivators at all stages of their journey—some forging weapons, others selling materials, and still more studying the myriad techniques and arts that the city had to offer.
His first task was simple: to sell some of the forging equipment he had created during his time at the Weapon Forging Villa. He knew that the equipment he had forged was far from perfect, but it was solid, functional, and could serve as a stepping stone for cultivators who were just beginning their journey into weaponry. He found a small but reputable shop in one of the city's many districts, a place with an air of quiet efficiency. The sign outside read "Mo's Forging Shop," a name that immediately caught Lu Fan's attention.
As he entered the shop, the familiar sound of the forge filled the air. Behind the counter stood an elderly man with graying hair, his hands steady as he worked on a new blade. He looked up as Lu Fan approached, his sharp eyes immediately assessing the stranger.
"I'm here to sell some items," Lu Fan said, placing a bundle of level 1 mid-grade forging equipment on the counter.
The shopkeeper raised an eyebrow, his fingers brushing over the pieces of equipment. He then looked up at Lu Fan with a thoughtful expression. "These are well-crafted, but not extraordinary," he said, his voice steady. "Where did you learn to forge like this?"
Lu Fan nodded, playing the part of a humble craftsman. "I've traveled from a distant place. I've had some time to practice, but I'm still learning."
The shopkeeper nodded again, seemingly satisfied with the answer. He examined the items further and then set them aside. "I'm willing to buy these from you. In exchange, I can give you a few spirit stones. But before we make a deal, let me ask you this: Are you interested in working with us? We often need craftsmen like you for special projects. We can provide a place to stay and a stable income."
Lu Fan didn't hesitate. He had been expecting an opportunity like this, and it aligned perfectly with his plans. The Mo Family controlled Lianhua City, and working with them would not only provide him with resources and shelter, but it might also give him access to valuable information and techniques that could aid in his cultivation.
"I would be honored," Lu Fan replied. "I'm always open to learning and helping where I can."
The shopkeeper smiled and nodded. "Good. Welcome to Mo's Forging Shop. You can stay in the accommodation we provide for workers. It's not the most luxurious, but it will do. You can start right away."
Lu Fan was led to the back of the shop, where a small but functional room awaited him. The accommodation was modest, but it was enough for now. He was grateful for the opportunity.
The next few days were filled with work. Lu Fan spent his time in the shop, forging and improving his skills. His work was steady, and he made sure to keep a low profile, only speaking to the other workers when necessary. His primary focus, however, was on learning more about the Mo Family and their activities. The Mo Family's influence was vast, and Lu Fan knew that any information he could gather would be valuable for his future.
One afternoon, while he was working in the shop, the shopkeeper approached him again. "Lu Fan, I've been thinking," he said. "The Mo Family is always looking for capable individuals. If you're interested in more work, I can arrange for you to meet some of the higher-ups in the family. There might be opportunities for you to assist them in ways that go beyond simple forging. But before you decide, you need to understand this: the Mo Family is not just a business. It's a powerful force in Lianhua City. They have foundation-building experts, and they take their dealings seriously. If you get involved, be prepared for everything."
Lu Fan paused, considering the shopkeeper's words carefully. He had been expecting the Mo Family to be powerful, but hearing it confirmed made him think more seriously about his next steps.
"I understand," Lu Fan said. "I'm not looking for trouble. I just want to focus on my work and improve my skills. But if there's an opportunity to learn more, I'd be happy to meet with the higher-ups."
The shopkeeper smiled. "Good. I'll arrange the meeting for tomorrow. Keep your head down, and don't do anything rash."
Lu Fan nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. This could be the break he needed. Meeting with the Mo Family's higher-ups could open doors to new opportunities and provide him with the resources he needed to further his cultivation. But he had to be cautious. The Mo Family was not to be underestimated.