Chapter 1: The Mysterious Small Cauldron

A suppressed cough suddenly broke the slightly oppressive atmosphere in the shop, awakening Du Feiyun, who was engrossed in thought

Evidently, he is also a herbalist from Baishi Town. However, this young man, only about fourteen or fifteen years old, dares to venture alone to the rugged and difficult-to-navigate Baishi Peak, which is somewhat surprising

If he possesses the strength of the Qi Refinement stage, who in Baishi Town would dare to look down upon his family? How could that scoundrel Qin Shouyi dare to bully his sister Du Wanquing?

Since childhood, due to his impoverished family background and unusual origins, he has lived under the cold gaze and disdain of the residents of Baishi Town. The young members of the three prominent families in Baishi Town, those of similar age, have often bullied and beaten him.

Throughout the entire city, there was not a sound to be heard, nor a single person in sight; only wisps of white clouds drifted between the buildings.

Du Feiyun stood up in astonishment, gazing at the myriad sights of the city with an expression of pure curiosity on his face. Amidst the dazzling array, his eyes gradually became hazy.

In the vast expanse of rivers and mountains, there lies a place known as Langshi

Sitting on a large rock to rest, Du Feiyun reflected on his impoverished family background and his own meager abilities, feeling a mix of emotions in his heart, his expression somewhat despondent

As the saying goes, one relies on the mountains for sustenance when near them, and on water when it is available. In the town of Baishi, nestled among the mountains, the herbalists and hunters within the town make their living by foraging for herbs and hunting in the Langshi Mountains.

After all, the White Stone Peak is not only extremely rugged and steep, but also harbors numerous ferocious beasts. Even seasoned hunters and herbalists do not dare to enter casually. The fact that this young man has the courage to venture alone to gather herbs speaks volumes about his bravery

Others fear that the White Stone Peak is too rugged and difficult to traverse, and that fierce beasts roam there. Yet, little do they know that this mountain is also home to the most abundant and dense medicinal herbs. Without risk, how can there be reward

Upon hearing these words, Du Feiyun was immediately taken aback, feeling a mix of surprise and uncertainty in his heart. He set aside the thought of how the old shopkeeper had seen through his lack of silver. Just the herbs worth only a few dozen wen in this backpack could never be exchanged for this dignified and ancient small tripod.

Although there are many dangers in Langshi Mountain, it is shrouded in mystery and allure due to the numerous ancient legends about immortal practitioners that have been passed down through the ages

Every time he encountered those wealthy young scions, he would be met with scornful insults or, at worst, beaten up for venting their frustrations. What fueled Du Feiyun's hatred even more was the second young master of the Qin family, Qin Shouyi, who, relying on his superior strength, took pleasure in tormenting and beating him, having severely injured him and even caused fractures on several occasions

This young man is named Du Feiyun, and he is fourteen years old. He is a herbalist who makes a living by gathering medicinal herbs. Today, like usual, he hastily had breakfast at dawn and arrived at the White Stone Peak to begin a day of hard work.

Gazing at the antique shops and herbal medicine stores brimming with ancient charm on both sides, Du Feiyun suddenly noticed that the door of a shop was slightly ajar, and, as if compelled by an unseen force, he stepped into this antique shop named "Yuxianzai".

It was not until this moment that Du Feiyun realized that within this city, which resembled a fairyland, there were indeed people present. At the very least, the old shopkeeper was standing right in front of him.

Indeed, it is precisely for this reason that in the past two years, Du Feiyun has been able to gather nearly twice as many herbs as others each time, earning dozens of wen daily, which amounts to about three taels of silver in a month

This city is vast, with walls stretching for hundreds of miles, boundless and infinite. Within the city walls, there are tall and luxurious buildings, pavilions, and palaces. From a distance, it appears resplendent and magnificent, shimmering with colors, resembling a paradise on earth, akin to the majestic heavenly palace in the ninth heaven

The small ding is entirely jet black, and it is unclear what material it is made of. It has three legs, and the body of the ding is adorned with several vividly carved black dragons, exuding an air of solemn mystery while also appearing quite lively

He suddenly turned around and saw an old shopkeeper dressed in a blue robe, wearing a feathered crown, with a long white beard that reached his chest. The shopkeeper was sleepily standing up from behind the counter, leaning on the counter, squinting his eyes as he looked at Du Feiyun

Nowadays, that despicable lecher has actually developed improper thoughts towards Du Wanquing. Du Feiyun is already seething with rage, harboring a deep hatred for Qin Shouyi, this unscrupulous scoundrel, wishing he could beat him to death with a flurry of punches to rid the world of this menace

For reasons unknown, Du Feiyun inexplicably developed the desire to possess this small tripod for himself, a thought that once born could not be restrained. At this moment, he had already forgotten that he did not have a single penny on him.

As for that damned scoundrel Qin Shouyi, his strength has already reached the sixth level of the Body Refinement Stage. If he were to employ his family's martial arts, Du Feiyun would not stand a chance against him

Could this possibly be a magical treasure from the celestial realm, a divine artifact from the heavenly palace? This old shopkeeper is truly boasting, unaware of the vastness of the heavens and the earth

After wandering among the peaks for half an hour and gathering dozens of silver moon flowers, Du Feiyun finally found a large rock to sit down and rest

In just two hours, the basket he carried on his shoulder was filled with nearly two pounds of medicinal herbs. This amount is comparable to the results of many seasoned herbalists over half a day's work, which clearly indicates that Du Feiyun is far superior to the vast majority of herbal gatherers in the town.

Because he knows that only by becoming a powerful cultivator can he provide a comfortable living environment for his mother and sister, and ensure that they are not bullied or insulted

What he did not realize was that he had already risen at some point, carrying a basket as he walked toward the broad and towering city gate

If it were not for his tenacious will, enduring through hardships, it is likely that those several instances of being severely beaten would have led to his demise

If I, Du Feiyun, one day become a powerful cultivator, who would dare to bully me or insult my mother and sister? At that time, I will not only cure my mother's illness but also ensure that they live a happy and stable life

In this way, Du Feiyun was somewhat taken aback, not expecting such a precious gift to be offered. Overwhelmed with joy, he bowed and began to express his gratitude to the old shopkeeper, only to find the old shopkeeper fast asleep, sprawled over the counter.

Wait! Just as Du Feiyun was about to leave, the old shopkeeper's voice came from behind. Du Feiyun paused, secretly wondering if the old man was having second thoughts.

Not far ahead, a magnificent city suddenly appeared, with its towering and majestic city walls, the closely arranged buildings, and the pavilions and towers all vividly presented before my eyes

Perhaps it is the scorching sunlight that leaves his eyes dazed, or perhaps it is the hope within his heart that makes his gaze unfocused

Du Feiyun gradually became captivated, his gaze immersed in this small tripod, unable to extricate himself. Unable to restrain his emotions, he reached out and took the small tripod off the shelf, cradling it in his hands for a closer appreciation

These two wishes have always lingered in his heart, unchanged for many years

In the past month, that scoundrel Qin Shouyi not only bullied him but also set his sights on his sister Du Wanquing. He frequently harassed and entangled himself with Du Wanquing, even going so far as to lay hands on her.

As Du Feiyun stepped into the city, he gradually discerned the scene within, discovering that the city was devoid of any inhabitants, enveloped in profound silence, with the sound of fallen leaves audible.

As he moved lightly, after browsing and marveling at the exquisite and elegant nature of dozens of items, Du Feiyun's gaze suddenly fell upon a half-foot tall black small tripod, and he could not look away.

His words were firm and resolute, yet unfortunately, reality often leaves one feeling helpless. He lacked a distinguished family background and possessed no formidable strength; all of this was merely a dream.

Du Feiyun was suddenly anxious, gripping the small cauldron in one hand, and said somewhat irritably: "What kind of shop are you running if you aren't selling anything? Isn't this just wasting people's time?"

Upon hearing this, the old shopkeeper rubbed his bleary and murky eyes, his dry and sagging lips quivered slightly as he replied in a nonchalant manner: "Not for sale"

In Baishi Town, who does not know that the second young master of the Qin family, Qin Shouyi, is a lecher? Countless young maidens have fallen victim to his misdeeds

Moreover, the old shopkeeper actually claimed that this small tripod is a rare treasure in the world, a priceless item that cannot be bought with money, which further caused Du Feiyun to harbor deep doubts in his heart

Being bullied, spat upon, and beaten yet powerless to resist, one can only endure in silence. That kind of hatred, that profound sense of helplessness, who can truly understand it

Beneath my feet lies a wide avenue paved with white marble slabs, extending into the distance. On either side of the avenue, rows of unknown flowers and grasses are planted, their fragrant aroma wafting through the air, bringing a sense of refreshment and tranquility.

The old shopkeeper slowly lifted his eyelids, his murky eyes narrowing slightly as he scrutinized Du Feiyun for a moment. Only then did he move his lips and say: "At a glance, it is clear you cannot afford the payment. Moreover, such rare treasures in the world cannot be exchanged for filthy things like silver by someone of your ordinary status. If you desire it, then leave the bamboo basket on your back, and the item will belong to you."

The shelves before him were adorned with a dazzling array of antiques. Each piece was exquisite, embodying nobility and luxury, whether dignified, ethereal, or elegant. Du Feiyun was momentarily captivated, losing track of time.

You may take this as well; the two originally belong together and are indispensable to one another

The blue cloth garment he wore was somewhat worn, with two patches sewn onto the back. On his feet were a pair of straw sandals, and although his youthful face bore a hint of tenderness, it also displayed a slight resilience, still marked by the dew.

Du Feiyun was filled with self-loathing, resenting himself for being useless and unambitious, lacking the genius-level cultivation talent and the formidable strength.

There are still no signs of human presence here, and the alley appears somewhat desolate. The ground remains clean and tidy, paved with white jade stone slabs. On both sides of the alley, there are numerous shops, each adorned with ancient and dignified plaques hanging above their doorways

After expressing gratitude to the old shopkeeper, Du Feiyun joyfully stepped out of the Yuxian Studio, holding the small tripod and jade tablet, and hurried towards the city gate.

He used a wooden stick in his left hand to push aside the thorny vines blocking his path, while his right hand firmly gripped a medicinal sickle, his clear gaze keenly searching for traces of herbs.

Shopkeeper, how much is this small tripod?

However, since the old shopkeeper has spoken and made such a decision, it would be foolish not to seize such a tremendous bargain of exchanging a basket of herbs for a treasure. Thus, after a brief moment of astonishment, Du Feiyun joyfully placed the backpack on the counter, cradled the small tripod, and was ready to leave.

Unfortunately, he is of mediocre talent, and his path of cultivation has been fraught with difficulties, currently possessing only the meager strength of the fourth layer of body refinement.

Even in his dreams, he fantasizes that one day he will possess great strength, enabling him to protect his mother and sister, cure his mother's illness, and allow them to live a good life

The desire for immense power grew wildly in Du Feiyun's heart, akin to wild grass, never ceasing for a single day

What he cannot see is the old shopkeeper leaning on the counter, a faint, inscrutable smile playing at the corners of his mouth

In summary, inexplicably, Du Feiyun suddenly discovered that the scene before him had changed.

His greatest wish in this life is not only to ensure that his mother and sister live well, but also to enhance his own abilities and become a powerful and extraordinary cultivator

The shop of Yuxianzai is vast, filled with dozens of shelves, each as tall as a person, completely occupying the space. Numerous antique items, characterized by their ancient and elegant designs, are displayed on the shelves, exuding an air of dignity and mystery

He wandered aimlessly along the white jade avenue in the city, constantly observing the novel surroundings, and unknowingly arrived at a somewhat secluded alley.

Ten miles southeast of Baishi Town lies a mountain known as Baishi Peak. This peak stands a towering six hundred zhang high, and from a distance, it appears quite majestic and imposing. Moreover, both sides of the peak are characterized by sheer cliffs and deep abysses, which is why few herbalists and hunters venture here

Cough cough and books

Du Feiyun barely turned around when he saw a beam of white light shoot out from the old man's hand, instantly landing in his palm. He lowered his head to examine it closely and suddenly realized it was a piece of white jade, half a foot long. The jade was rectangular like a bamboo slip, warm to the touch, with a translucent color, clearly not an ordinary item

The light in the shop was somewhat dim, and Du Feiyun's gaze scanned the surroundings but he could not see a single person. He then approached the elegant and clean rosewood shelf, carefully examining each item.

The illness of the mother is quite peculiar; since his childhood, he has seen her continuously taking medication, yet over the years, there has been no sign of improvement, nor has the cause of the illness been determined.

The climate in the mountains is mild, nurturing a variety of exotic flowers, unusual fruits, and various medicinal herbs. The abundance of birds and beasts further enhances this place, making it a land of exceptional beauty within the territory of Qianjiang City

Du Feiyun knew that the skills of the several doctors in Baishi Town were indeed limited. To cure his mother's illness, he could only wait until he had saved enough silver to seek the renowned physician, Dr. Xue, in Qianjiang City.

Recalling the past childhood, Du Feiyun was always bullied and beaten by the children of the Qin and Bai families. He had long harbored deep hatred for those few youths, especially for Qin Shouyi, whom he loathed to the core.

If he were a powerful Qi Refinement stage cultivator, who among the young members of the Qin and Bai families would still dare to look down on him or bully and beat him?

Recalling these past events, a surge of resentment welled up in Du Feiyun's heart, and a cold, stern expression appeared on his face. He muttered bitterly, "Now my strength is weak, and I can be bullied by anyone; I cannot protect my mother and sister"

In the continuous stretch of the Langshi Mountains, there lies a small town with only a few thousand residents, known as Baishi Town

He removed the backpack from his shoulders, wiped the sweat from his face, and looked at the herbs in the backpack, a faint smile appearing at the corner of Du Feiyun's mouth

However, at this moment atop Baishi Peak, there was a young man dressed in a blue cloth robe, carrying a basket and holding a medicinal herb sickle, making his way through the thicket of brambles

However, despite this, the meager sum of three or two taels of silver is still insufficient for the expenses of a family of three. After all, he, his sister, and their mother all need food and clothing. Their mother, who is frail and often ill, has never been without medication, and the mere three or two taels of silver each month is truly a drop in the bucket

The Langshi Mountain stretches for several hundred miles, featuring countless cliffs and steep walls, perpetually shrouded in clouds and mist, making it impossible to discern the scenery within, thus rendering it extremely perilous