Steady Mortal Path: Starting from Obtaining the Golden Core Inheritance

Chapter 252 Myriad Wood Spirit Glue, Late Stage Completion

The Li family of Dafang Township.

On Qingquan Island, a pure wood-attribute aura permeated the air. Under the pull of an invisible force, it condensed into a vortex shape and poured into the central training room.

This strange phenomenon lasted for about several dozen breaths, during which a fourth-order demonic aura was released, but it was very restrained and limited to the island.

The powerful aura of the Demon King caused even the Crimson Centipede, which had advanced to the third-tier Great Demon realm, to tremble on the ground in submission.

This aura came and went quickly, vanishing abruptly after a few moments without leaving a trace.

"Such pure wood-attribute spiritual energy. Young Lin, you're really lucky. Even a treasure like 'Ten Thousand Wood Spirit Glue' has been offered to you."

Aoki Wangchao spoke in a lighthearted tone, her mood joyful.

Inside the secret chamber, a vibrant green demon infant darted about, full of energy, and appeared to have solidified considerably.

As they spoke, the demon infant's bright eyes fell on the 'green' liquid bead in Lin Changsheng's hand, revealing a greedy look that showed it was not yet satisfied.

"Hehe, it seems that Senior Aoki has recovered quite a bit of his demon infant essence this time. Congratulations."

Lin Changsheng chuckled lightly, and perhaps noticing the demon infant's gaze, he subtly put away the 'green liquid bead' in his hand.

Several months have passed since Lu Xun presented the 'Green Liquid Bead' to Lin Changsheng.

He originally only knew that this item contained a strong wood element aura, which could be diluted and consumed directly to quickly transform into his own mana.

However, the Azure Wood King Butterfly immediately recognized the origin of this item as the fourth-tier wood-attribute treasure, 'Myriad Wood Spirit Glue'. It is said that only fourth-tier old trees that are tens of thousands of years old have a chance of secreting this accompanying spirit glue.

This 'Wanmu Ling glue' has a wide range of uses.

Besides assisting in cultivation and enhancing one's cultivation level, it can also temporarily serve as a spiritual object to replenish one's own magical power when one's own magical power is exhausted.

Even in the process of refining pills, it has the effect of neutralizing and balancing the medicinal properties of various spiritual herbs, making it an indispensable auxiliary material when refining pills of the fourth rank or higher.

"In my opinion, that Azure Water Kui Ox is naturally fond of water and has extraordinary bloodline. If you can subdue it, it will be of great benefit to you."

"If you give me just a small piece of that 'Myriad Wood Spirit Glue,' I guarantee I'll help you subdue that stupid bull!"

Seeing Lin Changsheng put away the 'Wanmu Spirit Glue', Qingmu Wangdie's eyes darted around, and she flew over to his ear, whispering seductively.

"The Azure Water Kui Ox, a rare bloodline of demonic beast, is a darling of the waters and enjoys the fortune of heaven and earth. Since it has recognized Lu Xun as its master, it is this boy's good fortune. If I were to try to seize it, it would inevitably offend the heavens."

"Moreover, Lu Xun is a commendable son of filial piety. He is willing to share his own opportunities with me without reservation. This 'Ten Thousand Wood Spirit Glue' alone is far more than the kindness I showed when I gave him the cultivation technique back then."

Lin Changsheng remained calm, his eyes showing no emotion.

"Hmph, once that Azure Water Kui Ox grows up in a few years, you'll realize how short-sighted your decision today was."

Seeing that Lin Changsheng remained unmoved, the demon infant's fawning and ingratiating demeanor instantly changed.

Having accompanied Lin Changsheng for many years in her demon infant form, she had come to understand the human boy's temperament to some extent.

He's incredibly stubborn; once he's made up his mind, he almost never changes it.

The demon infant angrily returned to its 'Soul-Nourishing Wood'.

Although she had the idea of ​​deceiving Lin Changsheng about the 'Wanmu Lingjiao'.

But what I said earlier was indeed my true thought.

As a fourth-tier demon king, she could personally feel the terrifying power of the bloodline within that Azure Water Kui Bull.

If he could subdue it, even if he had to use force to enslave it, it would make Lin Changsheng's path to immortality smoother in the future.

A third-tier demon beast with bloodline reverting to the ancient Azure Water Kui Ox, even in ancient times, would be fiercely contested by high-level cultivators.

This Lin boy, however, neglected the potential of the demonic beasts and instead spent a great deal of money to raise the Crimson Centipede, a third-tier insect whose potential had been exhausted.

That's absolutely stupid!

But it was precisely because of Lin Changsheng's cunning and greedy nature, which was different from that of ordinary humans, that she gradually let down her guard and rejection.

Even she herself didn't realize that, as time went by, she seemed to have gradually begun to consider Lin Changsheng's feelings.

……

"Congratulations, my husband, on advancing to the tenth level of Qi Condensation."

Li Yun's voice was soft as she gazed at Lu Xun with deep affection, her eyes shimmering like water.

Lu Xun, dressed in white, stood with his hands behind his back, gazing quietly at the misty waters in the distance.

In recent years, his position in the Li family of Dafang Township has become increasingly secure.

Since presenting the treasure to Master Lin Dan, his interactions with Qingquan Island have become even closer.

During this time, Master Lin would often give him some high-quality pills. Combined with the wood-attribute spiritual energy that had been in his body that year, his cultivation level soared in a short period of time, and he broke through to the tenth level of Qi Condensation in one fell swoop!

Although their cultivation is not yet complete, cultivators at the tenth level of Qi Condensation are theoretically qualified to attempt the Foundation Establishment stage.

Lin Changsheng suggested that he should stabilize at the tenth level of Qi Condensation for at least ten or even fifteen years before considering attempting to break through to the Foundation Establishment stage.

“My husband, just a few days ago I said that if you can advance to the tenth level of Qi Condensation within three years, the Li family is willing to provide ‘Foundation Building Pills’ to fully support you in your attempt to break through to the Foundation Building realm.”

"Now the lady values ​​you more and more, and the attitude of the clan towards me is also different."

"Husband, when will you be able to break through to the Foundation Establishment Realm? At that time, I will apply to my wife for a second-tier spiritual spring eye. With your potential and your relationship with Senior Lin of Qingquan Island, I think my wife will definitely agree."

Li Yun stepped forward and gently took Lu Xun's arm, her words filled with pride and joy.

"Let's wait a few more years. I have just advanced to the tenth level, and my cultivation is not yet perfect. Master Lin suggested that I spend ten to fifteen years honing my foundation. Perhaps he was worried that I would fail to break through to the Foundation Establishment stage."

Upon hearing this, Lu Xun's eyes first flashed with a hint of interest, but he quickly regained his composure.

As he came into contact with Lin Changsheng, Lu Xun deliberately imitated Lin Changsheng's demeanor and speech.

He felt that he would become a cultivator like Lin Changsheng someday.

Because of what the two have in common.

They all have a third-tier great demon as their trump card.

If the relationship between the powerful and the weak is stable, it can be enough to nourish one's own cultivation.

The difference lies in the fact that Lin Danshi's potential as a third-tier great demon is insufficient, and his strength is relatively weak in the swamp.

His potential as a great demon is immense, yet he has only just reached the sub-adult stage.

Privately, he also took the opportunity to ask 'Old Niu'.

Between his talent and Lin Changsheng's, who is stronger?

'Old Ox' said that this human boy looks young, but it's only because he has cultivated some kind of ancient wood-attribute technique that can greatly slow down the loss of lifespan. His actual aptitude is not high.

However, this ancient practice usually has extremely high requirements for aptitude, and may even require a certain 'physique' to continue practicing later on.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, Lin Changsheng will at most break through to the Golden Core stage in his lifetime, after which his cultivation level will be limited by his own aptitude and techniques, making it difficult for him to advance further.

Worried that Lin Changsheng would find it hard to accept, Lu Xun kept the news to himself.

Lin Changsheng was his mentor, and he valued this connection highly.

When he advances to the Golden Core or even Nascent Soul realm, he will definitely find a suitable wood-attribute cultivation method and persuade Lin Changsheng to switch to it.

"Having honed his skills at the tenth level of Qi Condensation for over a decade?"

“No, this will take too long and will interfere with your husband’s future cultivation.”

"Elder Qu Ping of the clan today advanced to the Foundation Establishment stage at the age of twenty-something, which gave him more time to proceed with the next stage of cultivation."

Upon hearing this, Li Yun's delicate expression was instantly replaced by surprise, and she immediately lowered her voice to say:

"Is he worried that his husband's rapid promotion might threaten his position?"

As she spoke, Li Yun did not name names, but carefully pointed in the direction of Qingquan Island.

"Madam, you mustn't speak carelessly."

Upon hearing this, Lu Xun frowned and stopped Li Yun from speaking.

Lin Changsheng had shown him great kindness by guiding him on his path to immortality, and he held him in high esteem.

After thinking for a moment, she changed the subject and said, "However... although Master Lin meant well, our situations are different. His advice may be useful to others, but it may not be suitable for me."

"I will attempt to break through to the Foundation Establishment stage in five years at most."

With the ancient bloodline of the 'Old Ox' by his side, Lu Xun was full of confidence in himself.

For him, the Foundation Establishment Realm was just a starting point.

The Li family of Dafang Township is now in dire straits, lacking even a true cultivator of the Golden Elixir.

He needs to advance to the Foundation Establishment stage as soon as possible, and then strive to reach the Golden Core stage in the future!

……

A few years later, Lin Changsheng turned one hundred and thirty-four.

On this day, Lin Changsheng was meditating and practicing his cultivation as usual.

Suddenly, a pure wood-attribute aura erupted from his body, faintly carrying a captivating and awe-inspiring pressure.

"Late stage of Foundation Establishment, Great Completion; Cultivation Perfected!"

Lin Changsheng opened his eyes, a hint of joy on his face!

He originally planned to reach the peak of the Foundation Establishment realm around the age of 150.

Now, more than a decade ahead of schedule, it's all thanks to the powerful effects of 'Wanmu Lingjiao'.

The pure, natural wood-attribute aura is free of impurities and matches the attributes of Lin Changsheng's Changchun Kung Fu, with virtually no side effects.

Over the years, Lin Changsheng only diluted and consumed one or two tenths of it, thus saving himself more than a decade of arduous cultivation.

It truly lives up to its reputation as a fourth-tier treasure.

"Congratulations to Master Lin on your progress in cultivation. You are likely to achieve the Golden Core stage in the future."

Upon exiting the cultivation room, Li Shouye was already waiting outside, offering his congratulations with the disciple's salute.

"It's just a small step forward, nothing to mention."

"Don't get too obsessed with alchemy when you're in charge of maintaining the family business, or you'll neglect your cultivation. The future of the Li family still rests on you young people."

Lin Changsheng waved his hand, his tone indifferent.

Even though he had known him for many years and knew him well enough, Li Shouye couldn't help but feel admiration for him.

Ask yourself honestly, which ordinary Foundation Establishment cultivator, even a two-hundred-year-old white-bearded old man, wouldn't be excited if he cultivated his realm to perfection?

Once the Foundation Establishment stage is completed, one is qualified to attempt the Golden Core stage.

Throughout the millennia, whether in ancient records of cultivation or in oral traditions, there have been numerous examples of elderly cultivators successfully breaking through to higher realms.

Although the probability is extremely low, there is still a possibility of advancing to the Golden Core stage.

Even if things don't go well, given Master Lin's age, condensing a fake elixir shouldn't be a big problem.

Such a calm and composed state of mind is far beyond that of ordinary people!

"Master Lin's magical power has improved today, I'll come to ask for your guidance another day."

Li Shouye was very perceptive and took the initiative to say goodbye and leave.

Over the years, under Lin Changsheng's guidance, Li Shouye barely managed to advance to the rank of second-grade high-level alchemist.

However, the success rate of refining second-grade high-quality pills is pitifully low on ordinary days; he mainly refines pills of mid-grade and lower quality.

In terms of alchemy, he has completely surpassed the descendants of Master Ma, becoming the second most skilled alchemist in the Li clan, second only to Lin Changsheng.

However, the price was that in order to hone his alchemy skills, Li Shouye spent almost all his time in the alchemy room, inevitably neglecting his cultivation.

This is also a drawback of being proficient in all the arts of cultivating immortality.

Human energy is limited, making it difficult to balance the relationship between skills and cultivation.

Throughout history, countless people of extraordinary talent have displayed unique abilities in a wide variety of skills, but most of them have been unable to cultivate their skills in the same way.

This is also why many powerful sects' "seed" disciples are forbidden from engaging in various cultivation arts and are only required to focus on improving their cultivation level.

……

The news that Lin Changsheng had achieved perfect cultivation quickly reached the Li family.

Qu Jiao was astonished upon hearing this news.

Although I had known for a long time that this day might come, I never expected it to be so sudden.

For a moment, Qu Jiao summoned Qu Ping, and the two secretly discussed the impact that Lin Danshi's perfected cultivation would have on the Li family.

A few days later, a member of the Li family landed on the island and delivered a letter from Qu Jiao.

The content was simple: a banquet was specially arranged to celebrate Lin Changsheng's successful completion of his foundation building.

"Please convey my message to Senior Qu that I will keep my appointment on time."

Lin Changsheng put away the letter and dismissed the messenger.

Having reached the Foundation Establishment stage, one is qualified to attempt the Golden Core stage, or at the very least, is very likely to advance to the Pseudo-Core stage, which certainly has an impact on the Li family.

Lin Changsheng raised his eyes and his gaze fell on the Crimson Centipede, which was not far away and exuded a dangerous aura.

"My cultivation level has only improved slightly, but I'm already grateful for your help, esteemed masters."

The fact that Qu Jiao and Qu Ping, aunt and niece, hosted a banquet of extremely high standards for Lin Changsheng surprised him somewhat.

During the meal, the two subtly inquired about Lin Changsheng's plans to break through to the Golden Core stage.

His words implied that the breakthrough to the Golden Core stage was fraught with danger; a single misstep could result in backlash, injury, or even death.

Given their experience in such situations, using a fake pill is a safer bet.

"To be honest, now that I've come this far, if I don't try to break through to the Golden Core stage, I'm afraid I'll regret it for many years to come."

"Lin plans to take the great demon 'Red Insect' on a journey in a few days to seek a 'Core Formation' spiritual object."

Lin Changsheng took a sip of fruit wine and said calmly.

"Going out for training?!"

"Take away the 'Red Worm'!"

Upon hearing this, the aunt and niece could no longer remain calm.

Over the years, Master Lin Dan's powerful demon 'Red Worm' has consumed a lot of resources, and its demonic power has increased rapidly.

It's not like when I first entered the third tier anymore.

Guarding the Li clan's territory and relying on the power of formations to fight against human Golden Core cultivators is a piece of cake, and it is the foundation of the Li clan's strength.

Since Li Chongyuan left, after several years of panic and unease, the Li family has gradually gotten used to having a third-tier demon in charge.

"Master Lin, can we discuss this matter further?"

Qu Jiao's face was conflicted, and her tone was melancholy, as if she had made up her mind about something.

"Naturally."

Lin Changsheng smiled and spoke in a light tone.