Cultivation: Being Immortal Chapter 533

With remarkable speed, the Qing State mobilized elite soldiers within a month, positioning them along the southern bank of the Qing River.

Additionally, the state commenced the construction of more warships, formidable fortresses, and watchtowers, all intended to establish a defense against the Demon Humans residing on the northern bank.

Concurrently, the Qing State dispatched a contingent of elite scouts to covertly infiltrate the north bank, tasked with gathering crucial intelligence. Their previous defensive posture had been too reactive, leading to a significant underestimation of the Demon Humans' strength. Now, armed with more accurate information, they resolved to proactively assess the enemy's situation.

"This demonstrates a commendable adventurous spirit, characteristic of cultivators."

Lin Jiang expressed his admiration for this heightened efficiency. He noted that the pursuit of cultivating the Immortal Language demands significant initiative, with practitioners willing to go to great lengths in their quest for immortality.

The Qing State had now fully embraced the cultivation of the Immortal Language, reaping some of its inherent benefits.

"Brother Zhang, my rotation is complete. Please join me as a guest at the Lin family's estate."

One day, Lin Haiqing approached Lin Jiang, informing him that his turn to rotate off duty had arrived.

Normally, only three Martial Saints are stationed on the south bank of the Qing River, with one representative from each major family. Each Saint serves a three-year term before rotating. In urgent situations, communication is facilitated through specially trained messenger hawks.

These hawks are meticulously trained by the Saints and possess flight speeds far exceeding those of any official courier service or swift horse.

"You're not trying to arrange another marriage for your granddaughter with me, are you? I really don't want to call you 'Grandpa'."

"No, no. Even if you were to take a liking to my granddaughter, we would still address each other by our names. Martial artists generally pay little heed to rigid formalities or customs."

Lin Haiqing declared generously, his primary goal being to secure Lin Jiang's allegiance to the Lin family. The presence of such a preeminent Martial Saint was an invaluable asset.

"Very well, let us depart. When do we set off?"

"In approximately half a month. I can leave once the Lin family's designated Martial Saint arrives to replace me."

"Understood. Just inform me when the time comes."

"Wait, Brother Zhang, where are you headed?"

"Fishing. Please do not disturb me."

Lin Jiang waved dismissively, having become engrossed in fishing. He found it immensely enjoyable, questioning why one would bother with romantic pursuits when fishing offered such profound satisfaction.

Upon arriving at the riverbank, Lin Jiang found Lin Jingzhao already present. Seeing Lin Jiang, he exclaimed, "Senior, the fishing spot is prepared, complete with 300 pounds of potent wine to intoxicate the fish."

"Do you have any other bait available?"

"Naturally, we have an array of baits. Seniors taught me the craft, and I've experimented with dozens. I can even sell them for a profit to other seasoned fishermen," Lin Jingzhao chuckled, noting that they typically only used earthworms for bait before Lin Jiang's arrival.

It was Lin Jiang who introduced the concept of preparing specialized baits and developing a variety of fishing techniques. With over ten distinct types of bait and myriad methods at their disposal, even Lin Jingzhao had developed a deep fondness for the pastime.

"Excellent, let us commence."

Lin Jiang nodded and picked up a fishing rod. In those days, sophisticated materials were scarce, so Lin Jiang fashioned his rod from a spear acquired from the camp's provisions. This spear was not ordinary; it was a weapon designated for high-ranking officers, requiring years to craft. Although it resembled simple wood, it possessed the remarkable ability to bend nearly sixty degrees without snapping.

The fishing proved bountiful, and soon they were reeling in catches from the Qing River. Among them was a prized freshwater fish known as the Qing River fish, a particular favorite of Lin Jiang due to its exquisite flavor.

After dedicating over half a month to fishing, Lin Haiqing's rotation concluded. Along with more than a hundred other individuals whose terms had also expired, they journeyed back to the Lin family estate.

The return trip with Lin Haiqing was a comfortable affair, with all arrangements meticulously handled. Lin Jiang took this opportunity to keenly observe the society of the Qing State, as his previous visit had been too brief for proper examination.

"These individuals have brought nearly every aspect related to the study of the Immortal Language."

Lin Jiang couldn't help but smile at the sight of these people meticulously replicating elements from the Immortal Age, including architectural styles, attire, and even linguistic conventions.

Had Lin Jiang not noticed the conspicuous absence of flying cultivators and the lack of protective formations in every settlement, he might have mistaken his surroundings for a genuine return to the Immortal Age.

According to Lin Haiqing, the entire Qing State mirrored this phenomenon, with other prominent families engaging in similar practices. This presented a stark contrast to the ways of the Xia Kingdom.Elements from the Xia Kingdom's culture persist, alongside remnants from the immortal cultivation era. Although communication between the two is infrequent, it has never ceased. "Then it’s a draw." In terms of civilization, the Huaxia Language and the Immortal Language are now balanced. Each side adopts beneficial aspects, but their core identities remain intact; neither can dominate the other. ······· The Lin family, as one of the rulers of the Qing State, maintains control over a vast territory. While they refrain from meddling in other regions, security is exceptionally stringent at their mountain gate; even distant relatives face considerable hurdles to gain entry. Lin Jiang moved unhindered, yet the mask he wore drew displeasure from many. It wasn't until Lin Haiqing displayed profound respect towards Lin Jiang that the murmurs ceased. Upon Lin Jiang's arrival, the Lin family's prominent members arranged a banquet in his honor. While the family might not boast numerous Martial Saints, they possess an abundance of Grand Masters of Martial Arts – a testament to their strong foundation. "This is rather extravagant." The inhabitants of the Lin family's mountain gate indulged in lavish lifestyles. Compared to the immortal cultivation era, it might seem ordinary, but Lin Jiang recognized its normalcy. With everyone now being ordinary mortals, no longer pursuing immortality, why would they forgo such material comforts? "Brother Zhang, I intend to introduce you to someone. However, you must first give me your word on one matter." "Very well." "The individual you're about to meet is an ancestor of my Lin family. As I've mentioned, my Lin family traces its lineage back to immortals. I wasn't jesting. That ancestor is indeed an immortal who has lived for eons. He possesses a somewhat peculiar temperament. Should he command you to remove your mask, you must not offer any resistance." "Understood." Lin Jiang readily concurred, his curiosity piqued about which Lin family member had attained such prominence and awakened such power. He wondered if this individual would truly live up to their reputation. The two journeyed by carriage to a picturesque estate. The entire property was exquisitely designed, with even the roadside flora meticulously cared for. "Ancestor, Hai Qing has arrived to pay his respects." Finally, at a grand edifice, the pair disembarked. Following an announcement by the household staff, they were granted an audience with the master of the estate. "Hai Qing, is this the Zhang Mazi you spoke of?" "Yes, Ancestor." "It appears this fellow, Zhang Mazi, is somewhat uncouth. Visiting without revealing his true face." Lin Huasheng's displeasure was evident, not only due to Lin Jiang's perceived impoliteness but also his continued concealment behind the mask. Lin Haiqing subtly prompted Lin Jiang, "Elder Brother, recall our agreement. Do not disappoint us." "Fellow Daoist Lin, you may descend first. I wish to converse with your ancestor privately." "Um…" "Descend. It is better that you remain ignorant of certain matters." Lin Jiang stated, glancing at Lin Huasheng. Lin Huasheng nodded before departing. "Now that we are alone, why not cast aside your pretense?" "What is your name?" "Youngster, should I not show you a measure of kindness? You seem rather audacious." "Haha, I trust you can maintain that arrogance later. Remember, persist in this manner; I find it appealing." Lin Jiang let out a hearty laugh before removing the mask. Upon witnessing Lin Jiang's visage, Lin Huasheng's eyes widened progressively. His countenance grew rigid, finally forming a single expression: utter astonishment. "Six… six… six…" "Hush. Recall my prior admonition. Maintain that demeanor, quickly now, compose yourself." "S-Sixth Patriarch, this disciple dares not." Lin Huasheng trembled. Despite the passage of years, his profound fear of Lin Jiang remained palpable. In reality, Lin Jiang and Lin Huasheng had met only a handful of times, and Lin Jiang didn't even know his name. This deep-seated fear stemmed from the overwhelming disparity in their cultivation realms during the immortal cultivation era. Lin Huasheng had only reached the Nascent Soul stage then, whereas Lin Jiang had already attained Void Achieving. During the final centuries of the immortal cultivation era, Lin Jiang frequently visited the Lin family. The family's high-ranking members held him in immense regard, especially considering he was merely a mid-level cultivator at the time. Reflecting on his earlier impertinence, an inexplicable sense of dread permeated his being. "Are you so fearful you cannot even utter your name?" "Disciple… Lin Huasheng…" "Lin Huasheng. A given name, the last one chosen by my father, Lin Batian." "Yes, I humbly seek forgiveness from the Ancestor." "What is it you require of me?" Lin Jiang casually pulled up a nearby chair and sat. "Um…"

Lin Huasheng found himself speechless. His initial intent was merely to ascertain if Lin Jiang hailed from the same cultivation world. However, upon learning that Lin Jiang had repeatedly refused Lin Haiqing’s recruitment attempts, Lin Huasheng’s objective shifted. He resolved to persuade Lin Jiang to remain, regardless of whether they shared a cultivation background. Now, faced with the situation, his mind was a complete blank, rendering him utterly clueless as to what to say.

"If you cannot articulate your purpose, it implies malicious intent."

"No, Sixth Patriarch, I… I am not…"

"Enough idle chatter. I have no intention of investigating you. Had I chosen to do so, you would already be deceased. I have previously eliminated unworthy descendants from the Lin family."

"Yes, yes, understood."

Lin Huasheng hastened to agree, the records of the Lin family flashing through his memory. He recalled Lin Jiang’s decisive actions in dispatching Lin Guoning and others within the Lin family's premises. It was precisely during that period that the Lin family’s tradition of refraining from awakening dormant clan members was established.

With this realization, Lin Huasheng recollected fragments of previous discussions, and a cold sweat broke out. Could this entire affair be on the verge of exposure?

"Your gaze is shifting. Are you concealing something nefarious?"

"Your disciple would not dare."

"What is it that you seek from me?"

"My sole desire is to identify the individual known as Zhang Mazi and escort them to the Lin family."

"Oh, so you wish for me to assume the leadership of the Lin family now? Do you object?"

"Certainly not, not at all. The Lin family places immense value on filial piety. As the ancestor of the Lin family, it is only fitting that the Sixth Patriarch should lead."

"I was merely jesting. Do not become so agitated; I hold no interest in leading the Lin family."

Lin Jiang gestured dismissively, shaking his head. He had no desire to become the head of the Lin family. He knew no one within it, making its leadership a meaningless endeavor. A multitude of ordinary individuals requiring his support would simply be an unwelcome burden.

"Sixth Patriarch…"

"Has anyone been prematurely awakened from the dormant cultivators' sanctuary?"

"No, Sixth Patriarch. Ever since your decree was issued, not a soul has dared to defy it for the past millennium."

"Excellent. Proceed to compile a roster of all awakened cultivators and present it to me."

"Yes, Sixth Patriarch."

"My true identity must remain concealed. I am still Zhang Mazi. Do you comprehend the implications?"

"Understood, Sixth Patriarch."

"Very well, I shall depart now. Do not disturb me further."

Lin Jiang departed with an air of confidence, utterly unconcerned about Lin Huasheng’s potential schemes. He was aware that such actions were impossible within the Lin family’s domain. Once his disguise was removed, recognition was a distinct possibility, as he remembered his likeness being recorded within the family archives.

Even if he were not identified, Lin Jiang felt an overwhelming sense of superiority, particularly when contrasting himself with the few Martial Saints present in the Lin family. They were simply no match for his formidable abilities.

"Haha."

Once outside the immediate vicinity, Lin Jiang erupted into hearty laughter. The experience of being addressed as a patriarch was incredibly satisfying. They were all his juniors, and despite their potentially higher cultivation ranks in the past, their current strength paled in comparison to his. The exhilaration was undeniable.

During his early days in the cultivation world, Lin Jiang had scraped by for many years, only ascending to a position of authority as spiritual energy began its decline. Now, even before the full resurgence of spiritual energy, he found himself in a commanding role. It was plausible he would retain this status even after the spiritual energy recovered. At last, he had attained the respected position of an elder.