On the Platform of Discourse, after Wang Youhai sent his several young attendants away, the few of them sat down to review the gains and losses of the first Exchange Conference.
"Jade Building, at today's Exchange Conference, the total transaction amount reached nearly 30,000 spirit stones. That could be considered a success, right?"
Old Fan always pays attention to detail and has been calculating the transaction amount just now.
"The issue now is, we only collect the membership fee for those who attend the conference, one spirit stone per person."
"If we could take a small commission on this total transaction amount, just a percentage of one out of every hundred, we could quadruple our income!"
Wu Fafan's tone carries a suppressed excitement.
Today, there were seventy people, and we collected over sixty spirit stones in membership fees. One percent of the total transaction amount of thirty thousand is three hundred spirit stones, which is five times the amount, isn't it?
Three hundred and sixty spirit stones, even if divided among a few people, Wu Fafan can get several dozen, which is equivalent to more than ten points of merit. This is his half-year task income.
Most importantly, this is all for free!
"Old Wu, let's not bring this up again. We cannot break our own rules and benefit ourselves."
Firstly, he seriously reprimanded Wu Fafan in a solemn expression, and then Yu Lou smiled and said.
"Today, although the process wasn't too perfect, the final result was still good."
However, if we look at the Exchange Conference as our long-term joint development project, today was just the beginning.
"How it will be in the future, we still need to continue our efforts, not taking it lightly at all!"
The crowd nodded in agreement, and after discussing some procedural issues, they set the date for the next Exchange Conference and then dispersed.
After sending the others away first, Yu Lou did not leave the Platform of Discourse used for watching the wind, but instead cooked spiritual tea with Little Fish here.
A lady with delicate hands brews tea, forming a breathtaking view in the mountains.
"Dear husband, if we follow your plan and only let Wu Fafan appear at the next Exchange Conference, what if it ends up being a disaster and we fail?"
Little White Fish can't understand Yu Lou's actions.
In her view, the Exchange Conference was organized very well, and Wang Yulou should quickly consolidate the benefits within it. How could she really give the opportunity to the old Wu, who would take the blame?
"Many disciples of the Huachi Palace came today, did you notice that?" Wang Yulou asked with a smile.
"Of course I noticed, but what does it have to do with them?" Little White Fish was puzzled.
"Little White Fish, actually, you should be able to figure out that these people are quite extraordinary, quite extraordinary."
"Among them, many might have come on their own, like the one who bought three water attribute refining elixirs from me."
"But there are also some who came on behalf of others!"
Little White Fish's face twisted in displeasure. What does it mean that you should be able to figure out, isn't it just insulting me and calling me stupid? The Master is indeed good at playing tricks on people.
"So, for future Exchange Conferences, there's no need for me to attend at all. You can go or train in martial arts; what's the difference between going with you and going by yourself?"
"Ah? Me?"
Perhaps thinking about having to face so many disciples of the Bishui Palace, Little White Fish's face showed a bit of awkwardness.
"Yes, you."
"On the one hand, you can gain more insights and experiences in cultivation. On the other hand, you can also make more friends among your seniors."
"I am now in a state of open hostility with the Yuan family, and many things need to be carefully considered on how to respond to the difficulties posed by the Yuan family."
Seeing that Little White Fish seemed genuinely worried, Yu Lou added.
"Don't worry, there won't be any danger."
"Alright, I'll go. Sir, you underestimate Little White Fish. It's just that those people's cultivation levels are much higher than mine, which makes me a bit nervous."
"Hahaha, all my fault, all my fault."
As they sipped their tea and conversed, they finally waited for the arrival of Yu Lou's guest.
"Brother Yu Lou, I wonder what you want to discuss with me alone?"
The person who came was Wang Youhai, who had just been promoted by Yu Lou today.
Wang Youhai initially only focused on being grateful for Yu Lou's promotion, not realizing that the favor needed to be repaid.
Mang Elephant's kindness compounded with interest, Di Shui Cave's kindness grew entangled from birth, and Wang Yulou's kindness was gentle. Owe as much as you owe back.
So, Yu Lou had long harbored ambitions to become a great cultivator, but it wasn't obvious in his everyday demeanor.
Placed in history, this would be described as a surface show of respect, but secretly harboring ambitions for power and coveting the throne.
Slowly assert oneself as king, you know. Those who constantly say they have the resources of the Purple Palace are probably dead before those who just do their job without saying anything.
"Brother, do you know where my alligator dragon essence pill comes from?"
Yu Lou extended his hand to invite Wang Youhai to sit down, and then he laughed and asked.
"It's not from the last two years."
Brother Youhai's information isn't too up-to-date; he thought the spirit blood pill sold by Yu Lou today was refined from the tail of that alligator dragon.
"No, it wasn't. It was at night the day before yesterday when ten iron python dragons attacked the Bay of Fish!"
"Is this true?"
Upon hearing this, the first thing Wang Youhai thought of was that Yu Lou was joking.
"Ten? How could there be so many?"
"If there really were that many, why would you Wang Yu Lou still be alive?"
"Only because of the protection of the cultivator! Don't make things up!"
"Yes, one of them was a great demon python dragon. It was hiding in the shadows and ambushed, and I nearly died and lost my cultivation."
Yu Lou looked at Wang Youhai calmly and asked with a slightly naive tone, "Really?"
"Brother Youhai, you say, why did these ten alligator dragons gather together, and why did they choose the Bay of Fish for the attack?"
Wang Youhai was startled.
"Ten alligator dragons, attacking the Bay of Fish, a great demon python dragon appeared, aiming to kill Wang Yulou."
This kind of thing, he shouldn't have heard!
It's like a chasm, lurking in some formless manner, and now, Wang Yulou is pulling Wang Youhai to the edge of that chasm.
"How did you survive?"
Wang Youhai didn't know how to answer, and people who have brains in Drip Water Cave might all know that the iron python dragon is raised by the Yuan family.
As a disciple of the surname-foreign foundation cultivator Luo Changhe from the Yuan family, Wang Youhai was even more aware that he couldn't make a statement.
So, he could only act as if he cared, asking about how Yu Lou managed to survive, which was all he could do to show his care.
At this moment, Wang Youhai's body exhibited the strange combination of human weakness and care for a friend.
The oppression of the cultivation hope and the system on humans, on cultivators, can be physical, spiritual, obvious, subtle, long-term, or short-term.
And Wang Youhai is a unlucky fellow who has been through much suffering.
Yu Lou looked at Little White Fish with affectionate eyes and said.
"Little White Fish nearly exchanged her life for mine. Thankfully, she's fine now, probably all thanks to the protection of the Immortal Ancestor."
The couple engaged in a heartfelt gaze, while Wang Youhai on the side kept wiping away non-existent cold sweat.
"So, Yu Lou, what do you want me to do?"
Wang Yulou gave him face, gave him opportunities, and promoted him. Now is the time for Wang Youhai to give an answer.
What can he do?
In front of him is his patron, the Yuan family, and behind him is Wang Yulou, who is younger, has a higher status, more wealth, and a brighter future than him.
He helped arrange Little Fish's position for Wang Yulou, but Wang Yulou had already contributed with spirit stones, and the task itself wasn't difficult. Wang Youhai could only return the favor.
It's difficult, very difficult, but Wang Youhai's back couldn't allow him to say he couldn't do it at all.
"The head elder of the Yuan family said they would give me an explanation within three or five days, but I'm afraid they won't."
"Brother, you've been patrolling the cave for many years. I want you to contact the patrol team and investigate the incident of the iron python dragon attacking the Bay of Fish."
Seeing Wang Youhai's color changing, Yu Lou was remarkably calm. He then talked about Fan Zhugao again.
"The Cave Patrol is currently under the jurisdiction of the Elder Zhuoyin Lan. Elder Zhuoyin Lan is the elder uncle of Brother Fan, and many of his disciples are serving as officials in the patrol team."
"Brother Youhai, I came to you because your status is most appropriate."
At this point, Yu Lou stopped speaking and handed Wang Youhai a cup of tea he had poured himself, which Wang Youhai was still hesitating over.
"Brother Youhai, the Yuan family has the legitimate bloodline of foundation cultivators, followed by the surname-foreign foundation cultivators."
Under the legitimate bloodline of foundation cultivation, there are both legitimate disciples and surname-foreign disciples, such as Ji Yuandan.
Under the surname-foreign foundation cultivation, there are surname-foreign foundation cultivator's blood relatives, and then, you."
Even compared to Ji Yuandan, Ji Yuandan has already been sent to do river labor. As for you, you have been protected by Elder Luo."
Whether this protection is good or bad for you is probably a matter of debate.
Brother, I believe you understand what I'm saying.
This cup of tea, will you drink it or not? We are all friends; the matters of the Exchange Conference will proceed as usual!"
"Fourfold meaning. The first one, I want you to do something, mobilize your influence in the Cave Patrol. "
"Secondly, do some less-in-depth investigation to put some pressure on the Yuan family——I have no intention of making the conflict public, so you don't need to worry too much."
These two are the overt aspects, while the next two are more subtle.
"Thirdly, the investigation is initiated by you. In the future, when the Yuan family feels pressure, you can step forward to resolve the issue. At that time, it will be your merit there."
Lastly, the fourth and most crucial aspect.
"The fourth, I'm not only talking about the investigation today, brother. I want you!"
"I've said what I needed to. The token of loyalty, whether you'll give it or not, won't affect our cooperation at the Exchange Conference."
Wang Youhai naturally understood Yu Lou's multiple meanings, but he still couldn't make up his mind.
He wants to rely on himself, so he went to the Western Sea.
When he realized that even his best efforts were not enough because his life was not worth much, he finally knelt before Elder Luo.
Now, his life is worth a bit more, but Wang Yulou is once again sending him to fight to the death.
"Sir, we don't necessarily have to trouble Brother Youhai. We can let Wu Jinyan, the veteran in the cave, investigate for us. He is an official in charge of the watchful eyes, and it would be roughly the same."
Little White Fish was using information asymmetry to put psychological pressure on Wang Youhai. When Yuan Zhengju arrived at the Bay of Fish, Wu Jinyan did come, but Wang Youhai was unaware of this.
"Yu Lou, I'll have it!"
Wang Youhai made a decisive decision. He picked up the teacup and drank it all at once.
He knew that what he was drinking wasn't just tea, but also a token of loyalty to Wang Yulou's interest group.
Once he initiates the investigation into the alligator dragon's attack on the Bay of Fish, there will be no turning back for him. That is where the meaning of a token of loyalty lies.
"Such a big matter, Yu Lou naturally can't let Brother Youhai work for nothing. These five hundred spirit stones will serve as the activity funds for Brother Youhai!"
Wang Youhai looked at the jade round table with spirit stones and raised his head to ask.
"Is it better the sooner the better?"
This question is about how to proceed with the work and when to start it.
He raised his eyes, looking in the direction of Drip Water Cave. Yu Lou spoke in a steady voice, "Therefore..."
"We need to nudge the Yuan family a bit; otherwise, I'm afraid they won't be willing to make sacrifices."
"Nudging them a bit" refers to the speed, which is guidance for the work.
"Making sacrifices" refers to our ambitions, which is showing strength and drawing a pie chart to Wang Youhai.
"Understood! Brother Youhai will go now to contact the familiar cultivators in the patrol team!"
Wang Youhai was directly using "Brother Youhai" to refer to himself, which indicated his intention and made the relationship between the two clearer.
He didn't take the 'activity funds' given by Yu Lou, but instead stood up directly, showing his willingness to contribute his own funds to join in.
Yu Lou, of course, appreciated such a man. He wouldn't really harm Wang Youhai.
"Take the spirit stones and use them all. In this way, even if there are problems, you can be a loyal and protective disciple in front of the Yuan family elders."
Wang Youhai looked at Yu Lou, who still wore his usual calm and composed expression. However, Yu Lou subtly bent down and picked up the spirit stones on the table without a word.
"Yù Què comrade, wait for my good news."
After saying that, he left. Yu Lou then put away the tea utensils and called Little White Fish to leave.
It was only then that he noticed Little White Fish staring at him, eyes filled with some astonishment.
"Is it? Are you startled by today's me?"
Seeing Yu Lou noticed her gaze, Little White Fish blushed and lowered her head, then went to embrace his arm.
"No, Little White Fish was just thinking that my future would not be surprising if I were to attain the Golden Dan."
He never expected that in his wife's eyes, he had such potential. Yu Lou felt pleased but still modestly answered.
"Ha ha, I dare not think of the Golden Dan. My goal is only the Purple Palace."
"If it really doesn't work out, becoming as famous as An Ning as a Foundation Establishment cultivator would also be fine."
"An Ning? Prominent Foundation Establishment cultivator? Who is she?"
The two stepped onto the flying boat, holding onto their wife's waist, and Yu Lou drove the boat in the direction of Bay of Fish.
"An Ning, do you know about the differences in strength among foundation cultivators?"
"Oh? Please tell me, Your Lordship."
"You're too polite, Little White Fish."
The gap between foundation cultivators is great. Ancestor Jinyan's level can be considered as the weakest representative among foundation cultivators. Even if Ancestor Xianzhou were to come, killing him would be as easy as slaughtering a chicken.
And Elder Zhuoyi can match three Wu Jinyan, which is among the better among common foundation cultivators.
Similar to me, similar to our Wang clan's clan chief Xianmeng Ancestor, they can beat ten Wu Jinyan.
Ancestor Jingyi is not ordinary; she can defeat thirty to forty Wu Jinyans.
Elder Tao Sheng is closer to Elder Jingyi in terms of strength, but is actually a bit higher, capable of defeating forty to fifty Wu Jinyan.
Corresponding to him is actually Master Li Haiping from Miaofeng Mountain, but Master Li is slightly stronger by a line, possibly able to defeat fifty to sixty Wu Jinyan.
As for An Ning, she was a well-known foundation cultivator from Fulong Temple in the past, almost at the level of opening the Purple Palace, and should be of the same level as Master Li Haiping.
Master Li and An Ning are the strongest foundation cultivators below the Purple Palace. As for whether they can open the Purple Palace, it depends on chance."
"Hahaha, I can't hold on anymore, Your Lordship. Your comparison, hahaha, please do not mention it in front of Ancestor Jinyan."
"Look at what you said, even if you don't remind me, I won't blabber on like that."
"However, Your Lordship, I suspect that you will become even stronger than An Ning and Master Li in the future."
"Keep up the good work! Today we've gathered many good things. With the existence of the Exchange Conference, we don't have to worry too much about cultivation resources."
As long as the Yuan family doesn't cause any trouble, we can enjoy a period of peaceful cultivation time."
"The affairs of the Yuan family. I understand why you don't involve Fan Zhuoqiao and Zhuo Family, but why don't you involve Ji Yuandan?"
Yu Lou understood that Little White Fish was asking why he singled out Brother Youhai for special attention.
"Putting pressure on the Yuan family through the patrol team of the cave is possible, whether it's finding Fan Zhuoqiao, a disciple of Zhuo Family, or seeking out Ji Yuandan, who is about to take up the post of executive officer."
"But compared to these two, Brother Wang is the most special. Do you know what makes him so unique?"
Yu Lou is applying the principle of teaching by example to Little White Fish.
That phrase is: 'Marriage and Teacher-Student Relationship'.
"Special. Is he the least valued among the foundation cultivation families behind him?" Little White Fish gave her answer.
"A bit closer. His uniqueness lies in the fact that he is just right in terms of strength, and perfectly balanced in many aspects."
"When you encounter problems and make decisions in the future, you should also analyze the opportunities and risks faced by different choices."
The weakness of Brother Youhai is multifaceted.
His master, Elder Luo, well... He is a commoner cultivator in the Yuan family. He himself joined the Yuan family too late.
The resources he can call upon behind him, as well as being at a point where I can afford the price.
If we use the strength behind Brother Fan's Zhuo Family to put pressure on the Yuan family, the best scenario would be for the Yuan family to make concessions to me, while I bleed money to the Zhuo family.
The worst-case scenario would be that I am used as a cudgel by the old scoundrels of the Zhuo Family, forced to become a dung-heap in the storm and turmoil of Drip Water Cave.
"Don't say you're a dung-heap stirrer, Your Lordship. Saying that is too disgusting."
Little White Fish slightly disdainfully commented.
"Hahaha, let's get back to the topic. It's time for Old Ji. He's... he's too scared of the Yuan family. You don't know, three years ago, Bai Maog..."
In that case, we have lost the opportunity to keep the small iron alligator dragon. Old Ji is too scared of the Yuan family, and how can I trust him?"
Yu Lou recalled that night, still feeling a bit of regret. Ji Yuandan was too cunning at the beginning.
"Making a decision is so complicated, Your Lordship. Did you think this much when you married me?"
Little White Fish asked with a thoughtful expression, the same question wouldn't be asked by Qin Chuyanran. This is also one of Little White Fish's personality traits.
"Of course, to travel further on the path of cultivation, there are three things that are most important."
Firstly, cultivation. Merit is the root of everything.
Secondly, finding the key. There are too many things a cultivator can do on the path to immortality, and many of them are meaningless, diverting the cultivator's attention. Finding the key from among these complex matters is an important but often overlooked skill.
Thirdly, the ability to make the best decision prudently on those key and important matters. The best decision does not always guarantee the best outcome, but by persistently adhering to it, the path will naturally become wider over time.
These are the three cultivation insights I drew from the Wang family's legacy, combined with my own summary.
It may not be as effective as the cultivation insights shared by fellow disciples at the Exchange Conference, which can bring immediate benefits to your daily cultivation, but please remember them in your heart, wife.
Having cultivation alone is not enough. To go further and more steadily, many things need to be done well.
Seeking the path, seeking the path, what are we seeking besides cultivation?"
Yu Lou looked towards the sky once again, more precisely towards the outside of Drip Water Cave. He wanted to see clearly what those high-ranking cultivators were up to and what Gongxiang Ancestral Master was waiting for.
The King's family of Anbei, taking advantage of the Master's favor, was forced to transform the accumulation of the family into the foundation cultivation attainments of their clan cultivators, leading to a transformation.
Yu Lou, through the Exchange Conference and his alliances within Drip Water Cave, will soon enter a rapid period of cultivation improvement. But what path should I take in the future?
At this stage, for Yu Lou, it's time to prepare to look ahead and plan the future.
"The road is always there at the end of the mountain" is a murmur left by fortunate people, but Wang Yulou cannot place his future in the benevolence of heaven.
"Do you know what I'm thinking?" Little White Fish asked, tightly embracing Yu Lou.
"What are you thinking?"
"Not telling you, it's my secret~"
---
On the same evening, the cave patrol team arrived at Bay of Fish.
Wang Youhai's efficiency was still very high, which made Yu Lou even more satisfied.
". The situation is as follows. With the help of Wang Xianzhou, a cultivator of the Tie Tuo Dragon, we successfully blocked its sneak attack while walking in Drip Water Cave of the Heavenly Union."
"But ten alligators gathering together to commit evil deeds is indeed terrifying. Cultivator, it's necessary to report this to our sect in time so that we can make a response."
Wang Yulou's suggestion is correct, but the patrol team leader in charge felt that this hot potato shouldn't be touched. Wang Youhai was even more of a scoundrel for getting himself involved in such a chaotic situation.
On one side, there is the sudden appearance of Wang Xianzhou, a cultivator of the Heavenly Union, and on the other side, the most prominent foundation cultivation family in Drip Water Cave, Yuan. Ah.
"Reporting? We will definitely report. Rest assured, Yu Lou Dao Friend, I will go back to the patrol hall now and contact the patrol team to search for the iron alligator dragon's tracks near Bay of Fish."
In that case, you can have a good night's sleep. What do you think?" said the patrol team leader.
First, calm down the parties involved, and then shift the blame to higher-ups. In this way, regardless of the truth, he can distance himself from the focus of contention.
"Alright, thank you for your help, Dao Friend. You've been working hard, quite a burden to you. These five Spirit Fish must be accepted as a small token of my appreciation."
"Oh, Yu Lou younger brother, you're too polite."
"The patrol team captain accepted the Spirit Fish and immediately changed his attitude. He thought of the legend about the wedding of Yu Lou, where twelve foundation cultivators witnessed. He immediately said:"
"We came here today because it was Wang Youhai who reminded us. He was once a cultivator in the patrol team, but now he has joined the Yuan family."
"Yu Lou Dao Friend, I will definitely report the situation of the iron alligator dragon attack. However, as for the final outcome, I cannot guarantee it."
This is enough. Wang Yulou and Wang Youhai are just waiting for this patrol team leader who is coming to investigate to report the matter up the chain.
He thought that reporting it up would be a way to shift the blame, but in fact, it would help Wang Yulou and Yuan Family negotiate.
As long as Wang Yulou and the Yuan family can reach an agreement, won't the investigation results along the cave patrol team line still be determined by Senior Ancestor Zhou?"
However, when it comes to the merits and demerits of this specific incident, Wang Yulou and Wang Youhai are acting together. By then, it would be Wang Youhai, a loyal disciple of the Yuan family, using his connections within the cave patrol team to mitigate the risk of investigation.
Either Wang Yulou wins or Wang Youhai wins, and the patrol team captain won't lose either.
The essence of this matter is that Wang Yulou capitalized on the expected benefits of the Yuan family's concession, placed a heavy bet by mobilizing the cave patrol team, sparked Zhuo Family's desire to exploit this opportunity, and thus forced the Yuan family to make a quicker concession.
Of course, this is the best outcome. The next step can take one of three directions.
If the Yuan family compromises, Wang Yulou and Wang Youhai win, but Wang Yulou wins more.
If the Yuan family doesn't compromise, Wang Yulou can bleed Zhuo family out through generating events, and moderately involve Zhuo family in the process.
If Zhuo Family wants to use Wang Yulou as a pawn, the issue will not be resolved within the framework of Drip Water Cave. The matter will be escalated to the level of the Heavenly Union, bringing it back to Wang Xianzhou and Wu Jinyan.
Ultimately, Yuan Daoshen was too arrogant, thinking that ten Tie Tuo Dragons were enough to destroy Wang Yulou's foundation for developing in Drip Water Cave. However, he did not expect the Wang and Wu families to have a good relationship and for Wang Xianzhou to be assigned as a guardian by the Heavenly Union near Wang Yulou.
When Wang Xianzhou, holding the symbol of Wu Xiang from Wang Jingti, slashed the giant reptile into half, the initiative of this matter fell into the hands of Wang Yulou and Wang Xianzhou.
Therefore, Wang Yulou has the operational space he has now.
---
But for now, the affairs of the Yuan family can wait. Wang Yulou's most pressing task is to calculate with Senior Ancestor Zhou how much Essence Stone they can earn from the Exchange Conference.
The key point is whether the earned Essence Stones can cover Wang Yulou's cultivation needs.
Currently, Wang Yulou's monthly cultivation consumes approximately 1,300 Essence Stones, which will increase with his cultivation level in the future.
This is the cost of rapid cultivation. Ordinary cultivators who eat spiritual powder can afford genuine spiritual pills only if they have money.
Yu Lou is different; he only consumes spiritual pills, and even those are the special edition customized pills with enhanced efficacy but shorter duration.
Common spiritual pills can boost a cultivator's cultivation speed by three times. The latest version of the customized spiritual pills Wang Yulou is consuming can boost the speed by five times or even more.
Additionally, he takes a pill of rest each day, saving him three hours of sleep time.
Lastly, Wang Yulou's all the daily affairs and trivial matters are supported by his subordinates and the two concubines, saving him unnecessary time consumption.
Only in this way can he cultivate at least ten times, even eleven or twelve times faster than a normal Xian QI cultivator.
You see, Uncle Rongyuan didn't spare the common spiritual pills in his time, but they only increased his cultivation speed by two to three times. That's how he was able to complete a hundred years of cultivation path for a dual-meridian Xian QI cultivator in forty years without taking them.
If Wang Yulou can maintain a tenfold cultivation speed, it means he truly has a good chance of reaching the tenth layer of cultivation within fifty years, and even forty is not impossible!
"It's not enough, it's still not enough. According to your plan for the Exchange Conference, it is held once every half month in different regions of Drip Water Cave."
Although this exchange conference has earned us nearly fifteen hundred Essence Stones, the profits from the first, second, and third times in the same region are absolutely different.
Even a 30% discount may be too much. Even if we calculate it at a 30% discount, the monthly maximum is only nine hundred, leaving a gap of four hundred. In the future, as you reach higher levels of cultivation, this gap will continue to expand."
Senior Ancestor Zhou is wise, and even with the profit of nearly fifteen hundred Essence Stones, he was able to calculate the same answer as Wang Yulou.
However, Wang Yulou is more conservative; he calculates the profit by applying a 20% discount.
That is, if the Exchange Conference can be held long-term, the stable monthly income of Essence Stones will be around 600.
The first time can earn so much is because the potential for consumption of participants, suppressed by the scissor difference supply system for a long time, was released. In the future, this potential will inevitably decrease.
"The ceiling of the Exchange Conference is ultimately too low. When I was managing at the Hundred Treasures Pavilion, my monthly profit was as high as two thousand Essence Stones at times."
In fact, the comparison between the Hundred Treasures Pavilion and the Exchange Conference is not meaningful.
The Hundred Treasures Pavilion is based in Qingxi Town and faces all Xian QI cultivators within hundreds of li. Moreover, the variety of products is wide, so even if Qingxi Town imposes a high tax rate, the upper limit of profit is still high.
The Exchange Conference itself has a small customer base, and the goods that Wang Yulou and Senior Ancestor Xianzhou can provide are also quite limited. The profits they have achieved are also a result of Wang Yulou's extremely high success rate in refining tools.
However, if his refining skills were a little worse, and he accidentally destroyed two more items, there would be no profit left. Thank goodness for the blessings of the favorable Gold Light Array.
"Expanding the variety of goods can increase profits. Wang Yulou, I'll draw more talisman these days!"
Senior Ancestor Xianzhou had great initiative and immediately made a suggestion.
"Grandmaster, the current situation is that the payment ability of disciples in Drip Water Cave is insufficient. Even if we expand the variety of goods, they can't afford to buy them."
Ultimately, the sect can exist because it takes care of the high-level cultivators while leaving room for disciples who play a lubricating role in the support system.
The Exchange Conference operates on the surplus of these fellow disciples. If we sell more, others will sell less, and eventually, it won't be viable.
If we want to have enough Essence Stones to cover my cultivation needs, we still need to consider how to transfer Xue Xiaowu to other places as a guardian cultivator.
After some thinking, Wang Xianzhou spoke seriously.
"Wang Yulou, actually, I've always had some Essence Stones for purchasing longevity pills. Now, with the addition of the Exchange Conference at the River Bay Fish Port, you can earn over ten thousand Essence Stones each year."
This annual income of over ten thousand Essence Stones, plus my own contribution, should be enough for you to reach the Foundation Establishment level.
So, you don't need to worry about the cultivation resources. You can do whatever you want, and I've done the same in the past. We have the resources!"
Hearing the old master's words, Wang Yulou bowed his head and said.
"Grandmaster, allowing me to use your life to practice, only to compete for a vague and illusory opportunity called the Azure Palace, Wang Yulou cannot do it."
The old man opposite walked forward and grabbed Wang Yulou's shoulder with his hand, making this descendant of the family stand up straight, and then said slowly.
"Not nebulous, Wang Yulou. Once Master Mang Xiang becomes a Golden Core cultivator, as the Wang family, as a supporter of the Mang Xiang lineage, Jing'er will have the opportunity to open an Azure Palace, and so will you!"
Silence, a long silence.
Seeing the resolute look in the old ancestor's eyes, Wang Yulou asked.
"Should one never place hope on others, isn't that the family motto of the Wang clan?"
Moreover, nearly twenty years have passed since Huang Qiu Sheng became the leader of the Red Lantern Sect, and can the Master truly attain a Golden Core cultivation level?"
Wang Xianzhou didn't speak, and there was a rare hint of confusion in his eyes.
Yes, what if the Master fails to become a Golden Core cultivator...
However, he quickly became resolute again.
"The path of the Dao, Wang Yulou, we have no time to hesitate. I've already lost the possibility of foundation establishment and even if I can prolong my life, it's just more extended survival."
Don't act like a young maiden. If you want to go further, you have to be ruthless. I see you are old and dying and don't want to use my Essence Stones, and I really don't like it.
I Wang Xianzhou have been protected by the Daoist Alliance for a lifetime, so I've lived a carefree life. Even if I die tomorrow, I won't regret it. What do you have to regret or hesitate about?"
Wang Yulou, you need to be ruthless, make that decisive choice!
Wang Xianmao once told Wang Yulou these words, and now, Wang Xianzhou is also saying the same thing to Wang Yulou.
Both of the old ancestors have given Wang Yulou a lot of tenderness and care, but they have both unconsciously reminded Wang Yulou that, son, you need to be more ruthless.
Because they have seen so many people and so many aspects of the world, they naturally see the problem with Wang Yulou.
As an alien visitor, the thoughts of the previous life left a deep impression on Wang Yulou, which helped him succeed in business and led him to where he is today.
But everything comes with a price.
These thoughts also subtly influenced Wang Yulou, causing him to be less decisive when he should have been firm.
The example of how to deal with Cui Dingyi is a good illustration. At that time, the old ancestor wanted to kill him earlier, but Wang Yulou said to wait a little longer.
Fortunately, the stone ancestor is a lying demon. If it were not for that, the situation might have taken a different turn.
In Wu Nan cultivation world, senior cultivators do not eat junior cultivators, but they use all their abilities to exploit, oppress, and calculate against them.
In such an environment, how can one survive without being ruthless?"
"Grandmaster, isn't what I'm doing enough?" Wang Yulou said hoarsely.
He believes that he has done enough.
He turned the River Bay Fish Port into Wang Yulou Fish Port.
He established the Exchange Conference, creating his own market.
He recruited Wang Yayou, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, and served as a pawn in the Drip Water Cave, laying his first move.
Not enough! Far from enough!"
What truly tests a person is not what they do or choose in ordinary times, but their choices at critical moments.
Wang Yulou, I am touched that you don't want to use the Essence Stones I bought for longevity pills to cultivate.
But if you can calmly accept my arrangement, Grandmaster I will be very relieved and satisfied.
You understand well - at the most critical moment, your hesitation will ruin everything.
I have won my entire life, but in the end, I still ended up on the absolute path. Because in that critical choice, I was wrong.
That's how cultivation is, a single mistake, a critical one, and no matter how much you win afterwards is useless.
If you can't be ruthless, you will never become a true senior cultivator."
Wang Yulou knows that Grandmaster Xianzhou is right. The cultivation world has always had two sets of logic.
The first set of logic is that under the rule of the Daoist Alliance, all cultivators have the opportunity to become Azure Palaces or Golden Core cultivators. As long as they cultivate well, they might achieve it at any time; one must believe in it.
The second set of logic is that under the rule of the Daoist Alliance, all cultivators have the opportunity to become Azure Palaces or Golden Core cultivators. As long as they don't become table legs, they will always be stepping stones for the great Dao and the resources for senior cultivators.
The lesson Grandmaster Xianzhou imparted to Wang Yulou is the latter.
"Grandmaster, there is a solution to the issue of the resources I consume for my cultivation."
We can ask the Yuan family to arrange eight of their family members for us in the sect as compensation.
In addition, we can also resolve the issue of Zhou Xuewu's identity as a disciple of the Blue Water Palace and his position as a guardian cultivator.”
Grandmaster is right, but Wang Yulou still does not want to use Grandmaster's life for his cultivation.
He has been eating Grandmaster for over three years. If he continues to do so without considering the consequences, Grandmaster will truly be eaten alive!
Yulou is striving for power and pushing the Exchange Conference to its fullest extent, with another consideration being that if he does so, he will have surplus Essence Stones to help the Grandmaster live a few more years.
Wang Xianzhou thought for a moment, but in the end, he did not continue to scold Wang Yulou for evading the problem. After all, he was his own child.
However, he did mention another matter.
"There are other methods to solve the issue of resources. There is also marriage. You and Lin Ying's engagement doesn't need to be delayed anymore."
You initially gave three reasons for the delay, the first being that after the success of the Exchange Conference, you could increase your bargaining chips. Now that the Exchange Conference has succeeded.
The second is that if the Exchange Conference fails, you can use the marriage to push it back again, and it's no longer necessary to consider it.
The third, concerning the feelings of Xiaoyu and Xingqi, is also quite simple. We can first engage, and then choose an auspicious date for our marriage in the future!"
You, Wang Yulou, are cunning and want to evade the topic of whether or not you are ruthless. Then I, Wang Xianzhou, will go along with your wishes.
It's just the issue of resources, if you don't want to eat your old ancestor, then you can eat the one from the allied family. You have no reason to reject it, right?"
"Grandmaster, Sister Lin might not agree to this!"
Lin Ying is that kind of person; she must have her own thoughts in her heart. The Lin family wanting to make an alliance is one thing, and Lin Ying wanting to make an alliance is another.
"Whether she agrees or not is not important. You're going to attend the birthday banquet of the old ancestor of the Lin family, Lin Mengyao, in a couple of days. Just behave well at that time."
Yulou, you know that marriage is a good thing. By marrying Xiaoyu and Xiaofu, you can free up plenty of time for your cultivation.
Once you marry Lin Ying, you will not only have a reliable strong ally from the Lin family in the Drip Water Cave but also a potential powerful partner.
Of course, if in the future you are able to establish a foundation in the Daoist Alliance and get rid of Lin Ying, it would be no problem!
At that time, your marital alliance partner should be a family from the Azure Palace or Golden Core realm, haha."
Wang Yulou, however, thought of Zhou Yingxi. Although Shackled Dragon True Sage is half dead, he is still a Azure Palace cultivator and a long-term traveling Azure Palace cultivator.
However, the Zhou family is after all from the Thunder Elephant Clan, and the conditions for marriage are to use Wang Yulou as a vase.
"Grandmaster, rest assured, Yulou will perform well the day after tomorrow. Whether or not it will succeed is not in my hands but in Sister Lin's."
"I don't think she will be a problem. You have made four layers in four years, with boundless prospects. If she misses such a partner, it will be difficult for her to find another one."
Yiyi's previous cultivation partner was too ordinary, and in the end, he did not even manage to establish a foundation and died on the threshold of breakthrough.
Lin Ying's advantage is that she has a high possibility of establishing a foundation. With her, in the future, at least three of you from the Wang family can establish foundations.
"Three? How do you calculate that?" Yulou asked curiously.
"Even if Yulong and Yuan'an are mediocre, they should still be able to make one, right?"
Wang Xianzhou originally liked Yulong very much, but after spending more time with Yulou, he also considered Yulong to be a stool in his mind.
"Yulong is fine, it's Yuan that might have some issues."
Grandmaster, after the matter with the Yuan family is settled, could you please go to the Fulong Temple for me?
Yuan is one of the most important assistants for Wang Yulou in the future, perhaps there is none.
Moreover, the two have a very good relationship, so Yulou naturally worries about his state in Fulong Temple.
"It's a small matter, but I'm not sure if the Yuan family will comply." Grandmaster Xianzhou worriedly said.
Wang Yulou has put all his chips on the Yuan family's retreat, including the enrollment of eight family members into the Drip Water Cave and the appointment of Zhang Xuewu's position, which is a bet.
Grandmaster knows how special a family like the Yuan's is. For them, lowering their heads isn't just about interests.
If it were just about money, the Yuan family would have bowed their heads long ago.
For Yuan Daoshen, lowering his head is more about maintaining the support of his faction and party members – that is what really matters the most.
"We will do our best, leave the rest to fate. If it doesn't work, we can turn to the Daoist Alliance!"
Wang Yulou is quite confident. For them, there are only three possible outcomes: moderate win, big win, and super big win.
You asked where the small win is?
There's no such thing as a small win. Once the Turtle Dragon materials are decomposed, we're starting with a medium-sized win!
——
In two days, Yulou will bring the gifts prepared by the old ancestor and ride a flying boat directly to Drip Water Heaven.
The foundation cultivators of Drip Water Cave are all affiliated with Drip Water Heaven. Under normal circumstances, their manors are also located outside of Drip Water Heaven, much like floating Daoist palaces in the clouds.
Of course, there are differences among foundation cultivators, just as there are among their manors.
Compared to the Zhu family's mansion, which Yulou has seen, the Lin family's mansion is clearly of a lower level.
But in comparison, the Lin family's mansion can at least be ranked among the top few among the numerous foundation manors in Drip Water Heaven. After all, Lin Ying's family has two foundation cultivators, which is why Jingyi Grandmaster listed the Lin family as one of the potential marriage candidates for Yulou.
Today is the birthday of Old Master Mengyao, and although there are not cars and carriages streaming outside the Lin family mansion, people still come by occasionally.
Yulou met a few fellow cultivators who had participated in the Exchange Conference outside the Lin family mansion. After chatting with them briefly, they all entered the Lin mansion together.
"Yulou junior, over here!"
As soon as he stepped in, Yulou heard his sister-in-law's familiar voice. He looked in the direction of the sound and saw Lin Ying standing at the side of the second-floor balcony overlooking the front courtyard, watching the direction of the gate.
The girl is wearing green Daoist robes again today, with a flower wreath made of blue and pink petals adorning her head.
She is as beautiful as ever, exuding that ethereal grace and the captivating aura of a celestial being.
Standing there alone, she can convey a sense of warmth through her eyes and movements, allowing Yulou to feel the incoming enthusiasm.
"Ha ha, Yulou junior, we won't keep you. See you later."
Several people who entered the door with Yulou left politely, while Lin Ying quickly descended from the second floor of the side pavilion and ran down to Yulou, holding her dress and running.
"Why did you come so late?"
Just as Lin Ying, who had been running from the second floor to the ground floor, was slightly out of breath, she spoke with a teasing tone and a hint of anger.
Back, back, the familiar feeling is back, the taste of danger.
Although she looks like a little girl, with her youthful and beautiful appearance, her cultivation level indicates that she is at least 45 years old.
After moving back slightly without making a sound, Yulou said.
"I'm sorry for making you wait, the palaces in Drip Water Heaven are too complicated. I had to get lost for a while before finding this place."
"Come on, Grandmaster Mengyao has been waiting for you for a long time and wants to meet you first."
Lin Ying pulled on Yulou's arm, as if it was natural, and tried to lead him deeper into the Lin family's mansion.
After smoothly dodging her grasp, Wang Yulou said.
"Sister, why does Grandmaster Mengyao want to see me first?"
It's funny, Grandmaster Xianzhou only has special training once a week. Why did I avoid you like it was just a game?
After sizing up Yulou, who had avoided her grasp, Lin Ying chuckled.
"Killing six Turtle Dragons of the Yuan family, you're already famous in Drip Water Cave for the second time, Wang Yulou. Don't tell me you don't know yourself," Lin Ying said with a smile.
"Really didn't know, and moreover, why is it the second time?"
Wang Yulou acted innocent and started chatting with Lin Ying.
"Don't act naive anymore. The first time was when you took a concubine."
"Just tell the truth, Yulou junior, are you a man cultivator who particularly likes female cultivators?"
She has already recovered from the trauma-induced flashback and is back to her usual social butterfly demeanor.
"Who spread the rumors? I will report this to Master Qu, someone is defaming me!"
The two argued their way to the front of Master Mengyao's cultivation hall.
Inside the door was a lotus pond, with a stone platform half submerged in the water.
Master Mengyao was sitting on the stone platform, cultivating, and only opened his eyes when he noticed Lin Ying and Wang Yulou coming.
The eyes of the Old Master Lin of the Lin family shone with a faint white glow. When they looked at Yulou, Yulou only felt a sense of itching all over his body.
This was when he understood why the 300th birthday celebration of Lin Mengyao had been so grand.
This old ancestor of the Lin family has already taken a step forward, becoming an experienced foundation cultivator with divine powers!
