Cultivation Nerd

"Your name?" inquired a disciple stationed at the front gate. He appeared to be about my age, clad in a blue uniform signifying his status as an inner disciple, with a notebook and brush in hand.

"Liu Feng," I replied.

The gates to exit the sect loomed large, as if crafted to welcome giants. Towering, marble-white walls extended as far as the eye could see, encircling the colossal mountain upon which the Blazing Sun Sect was erected.

"Reason for leaving?" the disciple queried.

"Visiting a mortal town," I stated.

The disciple nodded and handed me a wooden badge the size of my fist. "You're free to go. Remaining absent from the Sect for more than a month with a badge like that will lead to your presumption of death and your name being eliminated from the Sect's Archives."

Such a condition existed? For a xianxia sect, they had numerous security measures in place. Yet, I surmised that such things were necessary for a sect to be around for millennia, or however old the Blazing Sun Sect purportedly was.

A shiver coursed down my spine the instant I stepped beyond the sect's confines.

The air itself felt different, lacking a certain... presence. It defied precise description, akin to a weightiness in the atmosphere, yet not quite.

Shaking my head, I dismissed such musings. It was likely a barrier I had crossed, because giant marble walls weren't useful against most Monstrous Beasts or Cultivators. Nevertheless, they served as a tangible boundary of the Blazing Sun Sect's perimeter.

Glancing back at the Blazing Sun Sect, I couldn't help but marvel at the mountain's immense size. The upper half of the peak was covered in clouds and was barely visible.

"Mount Everest has nothing on this," I muttered, turning around to walk the stone path leading toward the world beyond.

Liu Feng had sparse memories of the terrain surrounding the Blazing Sun Sect. Nevertheless, following the main road should eventually lead to a town, city, or civilization.

Yet, taking over such a grand mountain, the Blazing Sun Sect was exceptional. Though back then, it was probably more of a powerhouse since the founder, the Blazing Sun Immortal, was still around.

While less exciting than martial techniques, the history of this world was still noteworthy. For instance, the fate of the Blazing Sun Immortal remained shrouded in mystery.

History here wasn't quite as forefront as the one in my world where everything was written in books. After all, there were still people alive from many historical events.

It was like asking Judas about Jesus.

Also, Nascent Soul Realm cultivators often disagreed on events dating back a thousand years. Which offered quite a diverse perspective on historical occurrences.

If I ever ascended to the echelons of power where I needn't fear ancient monsters swatting me out of existence. I was going to ask the elders so many things. But such things would take a while, even if I somehow survived to reach that kind of power.

I took out a sack of coins the size of my fist from my inner pocket and inspected its contents. The bag was still brimming with gold coins that Liu Feng had received from his family before going on his journey to join the Blazing Sun Sect.

If I were ever low on gold, a mere request would suffice to gain another sack like this. No questions asked.

Liu Feng had never truly valued such assets, deeming an ample supply of mortal currency commonplace. Nevertheless, he scarcely used the gold, favoring the currency of cultivators: spirit stones. Hence when I took over, he only had a single spirit stone. In truth, his family had bestowed upon him a dozen spirit stones, giving him an advantage over his peers. Regrettably, he squandered them on acquiring resources for cultivation, thereby advancing from five-star Body Tempering to seven-star within a year.

It was kind of a waste of resources on his part. With ten spirit stones, I would have paid for access to the library's second floor. Yet, Liu Feng had planned to attain inner disciple status, which granted entry to the second floor for free. No doubt in his mind spending spirit stones for such privilege equated to a waste of resources.

An hour passed as I traversed the road, encountering no other soul. The formidable silhouette of the Blazing Sun Sect mountain loomed in the distance.

Why was the road deserted? Shouldn't merchants ply their trade or carriages ferry provisions like food and clothing? By mortal standards every damn cultivator was rich.

Though the Blazing Sun Sect's mountain was colossal, sustaining itself should be implausible.

Or was it?

What insight did I know about this xianxia realm? Perhaps they cultivated crops within a subspace, although the existence of such domains was questionable at best. Liu Feng had no recollection of something like that existing, but storage rings were a thing, so maybe it wasn't impossible.

Still, why were there no signs on this damn road? How did disciples navigate without them?

Pressing onward, I quickened my pace to a jog. After running past a dense forest, I arrived at a small town.

One notable feature of towns and cities in this world was their large stone walls. To lack such fortifications was to extend a direct invitation to Monstrous Beasts to feast upon the populace.

Living near a dominant force like the Blazing Sun Sect afforded a semblance of security, and the likelihood of a Monstrous Beast sighting was low. Nonetheless, the risk was never entirely zero percent, and mortals stood no chance and were defenseless even against the feeblest Monstrous Beasts.

A lengthy line had formed at the front gates, including individuals from diverse backgrounds. Some bore the appearance of weary farmers returning from toil in the fields, and others looked like merchants accompanied by their mules. I joined the line, assuming my place alongside the others.

A dozen guards clad in chainmail and armed with spears were at the gate. As our eyes met, one of the guards looked shocked.

Before the line could progress, the guard who had noticed me hurried over, his face fraught with urgency. His anxiety instilled a measure of unease within me.

Had I looked suspicious?

"Honorable Disciple! There is no need for you to wait in line. Blazing Sect Cultivators will always be welcome in Greengrass Town," the man announced.

Ah, of course. I had forgotten for a second. I was no longer a nobody, at least amongst normal people.

"Thank you," I conveyed my gratitude, pressing my palm against my fist in a gesture of respect.

The guard looked at my hands momentarily before offering a nod, a smile gradually gracing his features.

"Follow me, please. I will serve as your guide," the guard instructed.

"Of course, sorry for the trouble," I acknowledged, falling into step behind him.

"This is no trouble, honorable cultivator. It is my honor to serve you."

As we crossed the threshold into the town, the scene unfolded with vibrant activity. Bustling thoroughfares were pedestrians and carriages weaving through the streets, friends engaged in lively talks, and street urchins sold strange flowers.

"If it isn't too much trouble. Can you tell me where I can find a vendor to buy small animals like turtles," I asked politely.

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The guard cast me a discerning glance, his gaze narrowing in contemplation. Eventually, he nodded, "I know just the place."

"That's good. How much would it cost to buy something like that?" I asked as we proceeded down the cobblestone path. Several passersby cast furtive glances in my direction, their gazes lingering upon my gray attire. Some even took a discreet step backward, their demeanor betraying an air of uncertainty. It seemed apparent they had encountered cultivators before, and a few among our kind likely left a less than favorable impression.

"At most, a few coppers," the guard replied.

"Coppers?" I realized I only had gold coins. "Could you perhaps direct me to a place where I might exchange a gold coin for some silver and copper?"

I had what some would call rich people problems.

The guard froze before chuckling nervously and saying, "Of course, the Merchant Hall should offer such services. Hopefully, without any of the outrageous fees banks have."

He abruptly changed directions in the middle of the road, heading toward what was likely the Merchant Hall. I followed along at a safe distance, mindful to remain beyond the reach of his spear.

I couldn't shake the thought that perhaps the guard was leading me into an ambush. If so, I was prepared to strike swiftly and decisively, aiming to incapacitate him with my first move. Even in death, the Blazing Sun Sect would seek revenge on my behalf. After all, they had their reputation to uphold, even for a mere outer disciple like myself. Besides, I had cousins who were inner disciples.

In a world where betrayal and treachery were all too common, it was prudent to assume that everyone harbored some ulterior motive. There were countless tales of siblings turning against one another for cultivation resources.

To some, such ruthlessness might seem cruel. Yet, to any open-minded observer, the signs were glaringly obvious.

In clans where children were pitted against one another, cousins and brothers fought for resources, and even uncles could become adversaries, was it any wonder that familial bonds were often fragile?

Behaviors learned in childhood often persisted into adulthood. And with leaders boasting lifespans stretching hundreds, if not thousands, of years, the pace of change crawled at a snail's pace, if it even occurred at all.

"So, how's life as a guard?" I asked, trying to take my mind off things.

"A bit boring, but better than most. While it would be dangerous in any other town, there are no beasts here due to the Blazing Sun Sect, and people don't cause trouble for the same reason," he replied.

By "people" the guard clearly meant other cultivators. But he was being polite about it.

*******

Mao Zhi had served as a guard at Greengrass Town for nearly a decade, witnessing an array of cultivators passing through its gates. It was a double-edged experience, the best and worst part of his job.

He encountered arrogant cultivators, some sadistic, and others kind-hearted. A few attempted to exude an air of mystery, which Mao Zhi found rather absurd, especially when they were clearly young outer disciples, still just kids. However, he refrained from pointing out such observations directly to their faces.

This time, Mao Zhi encountered a different kind of disciple—someone genuinely interested in the life of a guard. The youngster asked questions as if conversing with an old friend, and Mao Zhi couldn't help but reciprocate, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

Despite the cordiality, Mao Zhi remained cautious, mindful of the risks associated with dealing with cultivators. He had no desire to leave his wife a widow or his daughter an orphan.

Yet, he couldn't ignore the youngster's respectful demeanor.

"By the way, there seem to be no cultivators around here. Do you deal with them often, or is this the usual pace?" the youngster inquired.

Mao Zhi shrugged, "Usually, cultivators outside the Blazing Sun Sect don't venture here. Even the entrance exams are conducted in the nearby city. This way, we maintain strict security measures."

Things had changed since the ascension of the new Sect Leader half a millennia ago. He had ensured that if Blazing Sun Sect disciples sought to explore the mortal world, they would converge here, minimizing conflicts with external cultivators.

At least, that was what people said. It wasn't like even Mao Zhi was around to see such changes.

The mayor of Greengrass Town for the past century used to be an elder of the Blazing Sun Sect and still fostered deep ties with the sect. As a result, sect disciples seldom caused trouble, and any transgressions were swiftly addressed by the governor.

The more he talked to the young man, the more Mao Zhi felt the mystique surrounding the sects and cultivators gradually dissipate.

"Here we are. Apologies, but guards aren't permitted beyond this point. You'll have to proceed alone," Mao Zhi gestured toward a temple-like structure, where elegantly attired individuals adorned with peculiar golden ornaments frequented.

Several merchants cast furtive glances their way but stifled any covetous thoughts upon noticing Liu Feng's Blazing Sun Sect attire.

In the eyes of the sects, mere merchants amounted to little more than inconsequential figures, paying annual fees for the privilege of existing within their domain. Regardless of one's wealth, antagonizing a cultivator spelled potential destruction.

"Thank you," Liu Feng acknowledged, tossing a golden coin in Mao Zhi's direction.

Mao Zhi caught the coin instinctively, staring at it in disbelief.

A guard's salary in Greengrass Town was considered substantial, yet this single gold coin surpassed a month's wages.

Before Mao Zhi could express his gratitude to Liu Feng, the latter had already vanished into the Merchant Hall. Minutes later, he emerged with a sack brimming with copper and silver coins.

"Thank you," Mao Zhi bowed, ensuring Liu Feng understood his appreciation despite the briefness of their interaction.

Liu Feng waved off Mao Zhi's concerns with a smile tinged with amusement. "Don't fret about it. We're both friends here."

"Then, as one friend to another, you are quite strange," Mao Zhi remarked, intrigued by Liu Feng's uncommon demeanor. It was unusual for someone of Liu Feng's status to engage with him in such a manner. After all, cultivators typically held themselves aloof, commanding obedience without question.

"I tend to treat people as I wish to be treated," Liu Feng replied with a nonchalant shrug.

Once again, Mao Zhi found himself baffled by Liu Feng's behavior. While the young man spoke of the sect in a matter-of-fact manner, demystifying its aura, Mao Zhi couldn't help but harbor a growing curiosity about him. Liu Feng's nonchalant demeanor suggested he considered his conduct entirely ordinary.

Were there more cultivators like him? Perhaps only the arrogant ones frequented Greengrass Town.

However, Mao Zhi opted to keep his musings to himself, sensing that Liu Feng harbored his own agenda. He had no intention of disrupting his companion's plans.

"Do you know where I can buy a turtle?" Liu Feng inquired as they made their way toward the marketplace.

"Of course," Mao Zhi replied.

As they strolled, Mao Zhi couldn't resist asking, "If you don't mind my asking, why do you need a turtle?"

"It is a requirement for one of the techniques I'm training. A spiritual turtle would have been better since they're somewhat attuned to Qi and have better cultivation potential. But even tamed turtle Monstrous Beasts, considered one of the weakest kinds of monstrous beasts, are way too expensive for me to buy. They would cost at least dozens of spiritual stones."

"Why not search for one yourself?" Mao Zhi suggested.

"Finding a live turtle Monstrous Beast in the wild is challenging," Liu Feng explained as he purchased a turtle from a raw food vendor. He cradled the creature in his palm, noting its small size.

"I'm gonna name you Speedy," Liu Feng smiled, attempting to pet the little turtle, only to receive a snapping bite. Thankfully, Liu Feng's cultivation level spared him any harm, while the turtle recoiled from its failed attempt.

"Careful there, little guy. Don't go breaking your teeth," Liu Feng advised the turtle.

Did turtles even have teeth? Also, the name 'Se Pi Di' sounded bizarre and awkward when spoken aloud.

"Thanks for everything, Mao Zhi," Liu Feng expressed his gratitude, placing a hand on Mao Zhi's shoulder, sincerity reflecting in his eyes. "If I ever make it big as a cultivator, feel free to say hi."

"Are you suggesting I leech off my cultivator friend for life?" Mao Zhi quipped.

"Exactly," Liu Feng affirmed, beginning to walk away. "No need to escort me back, I've memorized the route. Use the gold I gave you to take a break from the soul-sucking boredom of your everyday job."

As Mao Zhi watched Liu Feng depart, he couldn't help but smile. He had been so nervous when first meeting him.

What a genuinely amiable fellow. Liu Feng was the type of person who effortlessly made friends. It was a bit weird for a cultivator, as they were usually solitary creatures and were said to cut off any ties to the mortal world.

"Ahhh! Master!" A nearby voice pierced the air, jolting Mao Zhi from his reverie.

Turning around, Mao Zhi spotted a young man roughly Liu Feng's age. Unlike Liu Feng's polished appearance, the newcomer wore disheveled clothes, a black coat draped over his shoulders. Despite the bustling market, the young man's red hair made him stand out, but otherwise, he was average-looking and wouldn't even stand out in a crowd.

Though, was he screaming? And who was he speaking to? Also, why was he constantly glancing at his side as if somebody was there?

Approaching the red-haired man, Mao Zhi observed the curious gazes directed their way. As a guard, he was obliged to address public disturbances.

"I can't believe the Blazing Sun Sect's acceptance trials aren't held in the nearest town! It doesn't make sense," the red-haired man sighed. "But at least we didn't come here for nothing, as you spotted that Earth Grade Technique, master."

Who was he addressing?

"Young man, could you refrain from talking to yourself?" Mao Zhi interjected, his pleasant mood tempered by the need to maintain order.

What was with the talk of an Earth Grade Technique?

In any other setting, such behavior might provoke violence, even though it likely stemmed from the young man's evident mental illness.

After all, stumbling upon an Earth-Grade Technique was unheard of.

"Ah, right. Sorry, I'm not used to it yet," the young man apologized, scratching the back of his head sheepishly.