The Quest for Immortality Chapter 2419: Take Care

With the Sect Jade Token securely placed within his Storage Ring, Mo Hua reflected on its significance. More than just an identifier or a pass, the token represented the profound respect and acknowledgment from the sect’s venerable ancestors, the esteemed Sect Leader, and all the revered Elders. Mo Hua cherished it deeply.

Following this, a few minor arrangements needed to be finalized. His recent ‘graduation’ meant his fellow disciples had dispersed, classes were concluded, and Mo Hua now found himself with a more flexible schedule. He meticulously drafted a list, jotting down significant locations and names he intended to visit before his departure from the Qian Learning State Boundary. Most of his acquaintances within the Taixu Gate had already been seen off; the remaining few were typically situated beyond the sect’s premises.

The subsequent day saw Mo Hua making his first stop at Solitary Mountain City. Guided by Master Gu through the city’s surroundings, Mo Hua observed the impressive Spiritual Machines and Formations adorning the mountain, as well as the intricate Refining Furnace housed within the Refinery Shop.

Master Gu also provided an update on the current state of Solitary Mountain City. "Fortunately," he began, "during the recent Blood Sacrifice disaster, Solitary Mountain City remained untouched. Consequently, the Spiritual Machines and Formations powering our mines are still in prime condition, and the Refinery Shop suffered no damage."

"Thanks to these endeavors," Master Gu continued, "the Loose Cultivators in the city now have stable livelihoods, with their needs met. Any surplus Spirit Stones are channeled directly into their cultivation. Their lives are demonstrably better than before."

"Furthermore," he added, "the Refinery Shop has taken in the city’s orphans. Those possessing exceptional Spiritual Roots have been dispatched to various minor sects for dedicated cultivation. Others with robust physical constitutions are undergoing training in Artifact Refining, while the intellectually inclined are learning the art of Formations."

"Naturally," Master Gu clarified, "we have ensured they comprehend the underlying principles."

"The Gushan Refining Workshop shoulders all expenses related to their cultivation, Body Refinement, Artifact Refining, and Formation studies. Upon mastering these skills, they are expected to return and contribute to Solitary Mountain City’s growth, thereby elevating the standard of living for all Loose Cultivators here in the future..."

As they progressed through the city, Master Gu’s explanations flowed uninterrupted to Mo Hua. Strolling through Solitary Mountain City, Mo Hua noticed the distinct absence of orphans burdened with heavy bamboo baskets; instead, cultivators moved with purpose and frequency. Occasionally, he glimpsed children whose faces radiated genuine smiles. The once-barren Immortal City was slowly regaining its vibrancy.

Even though much of the Cultivation Ore within Solitary Mountain had been depleted by aristocratic families, leaving scarce resources compared to the past, the city overall remained relatively modest in wealth. However, because the inhabitants experienced improved living conditions, possessed aspirations, and held hopes for their future, they were motivated to strive. This collective drive imbued Solitary Mountain City with a palpable sense of burgeoning vitality and optimism.

Mo Hua felt a profound sense of being moved. The most invaluable asset for any Immortal City, he realized, was its people. With people, a city thrives; without them, even the most prosperous city eventually fades. Crucially, the spirit of these people – their 'heart' – is paramount. When individuals are driven by upward aspiration and unity, they can lay a strong foundation even amidst hardship. Conversely, if hearts become corrupted, accumulated wealth only fosters avarice and exploitation, ultimately leading to a collective decline.

After their tour of Solitary Mountain City, Mo Hua proceeded to the Refinery Shop to re-examine the Artifact Furnace, with a particular focus on the Magnetic Ink Furnace. He carefully collected all the Secondary Thunder Patterns that had been generated as a byproduct during the furnace's recent operations.

Having confirmed that all was in order, Mo Hua made preparations to depart. Master Gu, expressing his reluctance, requested, "Young Master Mo, would you perhaps consider staying another day? Many esteemed masters at the Refinery Shop wish to personally convey their gratitude, and the orphans of Solitary Mountain City are deeply appreciative of your benevolence."

Mo Hua demurred with a gentle shake of his head. "There is no need. My only wish is that everyone can gradually build better lives for themselves."

Master Gu let out a deep sigh. "Departing without seeking recognition or reward. Young Master Mo, your actions are truly noble and deserving of the highest admiration."

A faint blush crept onto Mo Hua’s face. While his primary motivation was simply to avoid unnecessary complications, he found himself unable to fully refute Master Gu’s praise.

"Ah, by the way," Master Gu recalled, "Fan Jin, Master Fan, has been promoted and is no longer in Solitary Mountain City. Before his departure, he specifically asked me to convey his deepest gratitude should I encounter you. He referred to you as his 'benefactor' and, though currently in a humble position and hesitant to make grand pronouncements, vowed to repay your kindness should he ever achieve prominence."

"Master Fan is far too kind..." Mo Hua responded, shaking his head.

Master Fan had previously extended a helping hand, so speaking highly of him to Master Xia was merely a small gesture of reciprocation.

As for the future, the Taoist Court represented a realm of significant influence and prestige.

Considering Master Fan's less-than-advantageous background, achieving renown would demand immense effort, potentially leaving no surplus Qi to repay others.

These thoughts did not linger heavily on Mo Hua's mind.

After ensuring Solitary Mountain City was secure and that the lives of Loose Cultivators were seeing improvement, Mo Hua bid farewell to Master Gu and commenced his journey.

His arrival had been quiet, and his departure was no different.

Master Gu remained at the city gates, observing Mo Hua's carriage disappear into the distance, a maelstrom of emotions churning within him.

Mo Hua was Master Fan's 'benefactor,' and by extension, he was also the greatest 'benefactor' to the Gushan Refining Workshop, and indeed, to the entirety of Solitary Mountain City.

His decision back then had been sound, securing such a monumental patron.

Yet, life inevitably involved partings.

Young Master Mo, too, had his own future path and aspirations to pursue.

"May your journey be safe and prosperous, and may you attain immortality and enlightenment..."

Master Gu bowed deeply towards Mo Hua's receding carriage, his heart filled with sincerity.

Throughout the world, individuals yearned for immortality.

However, whether true immortals existed, or if the path to immortality was attainable by anyone, Master Gu could not ascertain.

But if immortals did exist, they likely conducted themselves much like Young Master Mo.

And if it were possible for someone to achieve immortality and eternal life, Master Gu fervently wished that the one to reach such a state would be this young master before him, possessing a Dao Heart so benevolent and a spirit brimming with compassion—Little Mo...