32 - A Sect Leader’s Ascension

"Zhao Liangde?" This was the second time Qi Xiu had heard this name. Previously, Kan Lin had also mentioned this individual. However, Kan Lin, being merely a lone cultivator, didn't have as deep an understanding of Zhao Liangde as Wang Guan, who was more familiar with the local affairs. Zhao Liangde was a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator and one of the stewards of the Beast Taming Sect. Although he hadn’t founded his own sect, his family had significant influence in the westernmost part of the Beast Taming Sect’s territory, specifically east of the Black River. In super sects, the position of steward was typically occupied by cultivators of the Golden Core stage. They were in charge of managing specific affairs of the sects. However, due to the unique circumstances of the Beast Taming Sect, especially in its Southern Border enclave, cultivators often found themselves promoted by one rank. As a steward, Zhao Liangde oversaw the training of a type of second-tier flying spirit beast, known as the "Silver-backed Ray." These massive, ray-like spirit beasts had large, flat backs capable of carrying heavy loads and could fly swiftly and steadily, making them one of the best second-tier transportation beasts. After taming them, the Beast Taming Sect rented and sold them extensively, reaping substantial profits. The methods of taming these creatures, however, remained a closely guarded secret of the Beast Taming Sect, with no other factions able to replicate them. With the authority of a real power-holder within the Beast Taming Sect and the proximity of the "Silver-backed Ray" breeding grounds to the Black River, Zhao Liangde was undoubtedly the most powerful Foundation Establishment cultivator in the surrounding regions. It wasn’t surprising that both Wang Guan and Kan Lin were aware of Zhao Liangde. But why did Wang Guan imply that, for the Chu Qin Sect to increase its income in the future, they would have to 'plead' with Zhao Liangde? The reason lay in Zhao Liangde’s greed. Indeed, greed was the keyword. Zhao Liangde, though thirty years younger than Wang Guan, was one hundred and fifty-something years old and had little hope of achieving the Dao. Unlike Wang Guan, who craved fame, Zhao Liangde was obsessed with wealth. His reputation for avarice was known even to itinerant cultivators like Kan Lin, indicating just how greedy he must have been. His most prominent trait was that he only recognized spirit stones. As long as his greed could be satisfied, Zhao Liangde, with his steward status in the Beast Taming Sect, could let slip a fraction of his sect's profits, enough for itinerant cultivators or minor powers to curry favor and survive on. Exaggerating a bit, one could say that many itinerant cultivators and small cultivation forces near the western end of the Beast Taming Sect survived thanks to Zhao Liangde, including Wang Guan’s Towering Pavilion. Year after year, Zhao Liangde purchased large quantities of spirit herbs from Wang Guan, using them as feed for the spirit beasts. In return, Wang Guan discreetly reciprocated with his own offerings. For this reason, Wang Guan could not truly stand tall in the presence of Zhao Liangde. He didn't shy away from admitting this. After all, cultivators from the Beast Taming Sect were generally regarded more highly, and there was nothing shameful about it. The Black River had come under the domain of the Chu Qin Sect and bordered regions controlled by Zhao Liangde. Paying him a visit seemed only natural and inevitable to Wang Guan. "Old Zhao may be greedy, but he is principled. He won’t take your things without rendering service in return. So, as long as you bring a hefty gift, he will certainly give you some benefits. Moreover, Old Zhao holds a relatively high position in the Southern Border Beast Taming Sect. He operates on a level deeper than ours, and his years handling affairs could mean receiving guidance from him would be worthwhile," Wang Guan explained tirelessly on their way, revealing everything about Zhao Liangde to Qi Xiu, who felt enlightened. Qi Xiu inquired about details on how to approach Zhao Liangde, and Wang Guan answered all his questions without reservation. Wang Guan’s straightforward talk was met with understanding from Qi Xiu, who mulled over it for some time and finally made a decision, saying, "Then once I’ve dealt with the sect matters upon returning to Black River Peak, I’ll pay him a visit." "Yes. Although your sect has been under the protection of the Southern Chu, the Southern Chu hasn't made any moves on the Black River over the years, obviously unable to profit from it. With their dwindling numbers, the Black River doesn’t appeal to them. Our sect relies excessively on the output of spirit fields and mines, while the Beast Taming Sect has found another path. They might have some methods for managing the Black River." As they arrived at the Towering Pavilion, Wang Guan added his final words as they prepared to part ways. "That would be wonderful if true!" In the course of just a few days of interaction, the kindness and assistance of this benevolent elder were a boon to the Chu Qin Sect. Although he made no secret of his intention to leave favors for his family’s younger generation, this straightforwardness endeared him all the more. His deep affection for his children moved Qi Xiu greatly. "It’s humbling, having you labor over the trifling matters of our insignificant sect. I am honored and deeply grateful. The great kindness of an elder, my entire Chu Qin Sect will remember night and day, seeking ways to repay it," Qi Xiu said sincerely, bowing deep to the ground in farewell to Wang Guan. Wang Guan chuckled, waved a hand, and ascended in a beam of light to leave. Qi Xiu remained in his bow until the streak of light became a tiny dot in the sky and vanished from view. "This favor from the Wang family will be hard to repay in the future." With a sigh, Qi Xiu summoned the "Wind Formation Spirit Boat" and wavered gently as he flew back to Black River Peak. This journey from the Towering Pavilion to Qi Nan City had kept him away for an entire month. Qi Xiu flew out of the lush and fertile Qi Yun Nation, and after about a day’s flight over the foul-smelling Black River, he finally spotted the faint yellow mist of the "Yellow Sand Mirage Formation" enveloping Black River Peak. Yu Jing, who was on duty outside the main hall, spotted Qi Xiu as he descended and excitedly shouted, "The Sect Master has returned!" Several familiar figures rushed out from the great hall. “Welcome back, Sect Master!" Zhang Shishi led the disciples to greet him. Having not seen them for a month, Qi Xiu found himself missing his disciples. Zhang Shishi’s mature steadiness, Zhan Yuan’s adaptability, Gu Ji’s lively spirit, and even Qin Weiyu’s foolish honesty each had their merits. "At ease, at ease," Qi Xiu smiled broadly, gesturing with both hands. "In this past month, has anything significant happened within the sect?" As acting Sect Master, it was naturally Zhang Shishi's responsibility to reply: "Aside from Kan Lin and some passing cultivators, Chu Youmin also stopped by once, instructing us on some matters. Otherwise, nothing major occurred." "Oh? He came?" Qi Xiu's expression shifted slightly. What could have brought the usually dismissive Chu Youmin himself to Chu Qin Mountain? "What did he instruct?" “Not much. Just relayed that the mortal immigrants led by Qin Ji are due by year’s end. He left immediately after delivering the message.” Zhang Shishi responded, then after a moment’s contemplation, added, “With a very impatient demeanor.” "Ah, forget about him," Qi Xiu sighed, comparing Chu Youmin with Wang Guan mentally. As a partial backbone to the Southern Chu, this grand guy had absolutely no fondness for them, unlike outsiders who displayed more warmth. “What’s important about the immigrants is still a ways off. But we do need to start surveying the entire Black River soon, identifying areas suitable for human habitation, so they’ll have someplace to reside once they arrive.” "Understood," Zhang Shishi acknowledged. Nearby, Gu Ji was already eyeing the "Odd-eyed Golden Silk Monkey" perched on Qi Xiu's back. Given his playful nature and seeing this adorable creature with its golden fur and unusual eyes, he was immediately captivated. Qi Xiu smiled when he noticed, handed the spirit monkey over to him, and Gu Ji, together with Qin Weiyu, ran around cheerfully at the top of Black River Peak. Zhang Shishi produced the Sect Master’s command token, presenting it to Qi Xiu, who waved it off, saying, "You hold onto it. I’ll rest for a few days before tending to some matters. Gather everyone together; I have an announcement to make." (To be continued...)