Chapter 34.3 - Arc 3: Disaster at Sea | Chapter 34: Market
Translator: Lynn
Emerging from the changing compartment, Xu Ziqing now donned a simple yet elegant long green shirt. At first glance, it appeared unassuming, but upon closer inspection, its subtle details revealed a touch of sophistication. His attire struck a balance between modesty and grace, complementing his gentle temperament. His calm and friendly smile further enhanced his overall demeanor.
Upon seeing Xu Ziqing in his new garb, the woman also recognized his refined presence and commented with a smile, “They say we cultivators are immortals on earth, but it is rare to encounter someone truly extraordinary and otherworldly.”
Returning the smile, Xu Ziqing replied, “Your craftsmanship is exceptional. Thank you very much for the splendid garment.”
After exchanging pleasantries, Xu Ziqing bid farewell to the woman and exited the shop.
With the two of them now outside, Chen, who had refrained from interrupting their conversation earlier, couldn’t help but comment, “Immortal Master Yun, your style is even more remarkable.”
Xu Ziqing chuckled and replied, “If you continue to praise me like this, I might become bashful.” He genuinely shared a light-hearted moment with Chen.
As they engaged in friendly banter, Chen noticed a man lurking nearby, creating a faint radiance at the entrance of an alley.
Alarmed, Chen’s expression changed, and he quickly addressed Xu Ziqing, “Does Immortal Master Yun still have unfinished business in this marketplace?”
Observing the somber atmosphere emanating from the shops in the alley, Xu Ziqing couldn’t help but wonder silently. However, he maintained his composure and responded, “I still have a desire to explore around.”
Sighing, Chen repeated his advice earnestly, “If you have no urgent matters, it would be best to heed my suggestion and avoid lingering in the marketplace.”
Curious, Xu Ziqing inquired, “Why is that?”
Growing increasingly anxious, Chen urged, “If you trust me, how about leaving the marketplace with me first? Then I can explain the situation to you.”
Considering Chen’s extensive experience residing in the marketplace, it was only sensible to heed his advice. Xu Ziqing nodded in agreement, stating, “That sounds reasonable.”
Chen wasted no time and led Xu Ziqing through a series of seven turns, finally exiting the market from a secluded area. The two of them hastened their pace for several miles until they could no longer spot any trace of the marketplace. It was then that Chen came to a stop.
Apologizing, Chen said, “I apologize for inconveniencing you, junior.”
Xu Ziqing smiled and reassured him, “It’s no trouble. But before anything else, why don’t you tell me what’s going on?”
Chen began to explain, “I assume Immortal Yun is an independent cultivator…”. Seeing Xu Ziqing’s nod, he continued, “No wonder you’re unaware. In Upper Quzhou1Quzhou: one of the nine continents, there are over a dozen markets, most of which are affiliated with prominent families. This particular one used to belong to the Xu family, one of the five major families.”
Realizing that the marketplace was owned by the Xu family, Xu Ziqing felt relieved that he hadn’t divulged his true identity earlier.
Chen went on, “In recent years, there has been a bitter feud between the Xu family and the Tian family, resulting in irreparable animosity. About a year ago, the Tian clan frequently caused trouble in this marketplace. We martial artists and the immortals who open their shops here are no match for them, often suffering significant losses. Whenever a high-ranking member of the Tian clan appeared, a signal was sent out to summon Xu family members to confront them… The person who created the bright light earlier was the informant.”
Pausing for a moment, Chen sincerely added, “However, since the immortal powerhouses engage in battle, even if we stand nearby, we’ll inevitably be caught in the crossfire. As you are here for the first time and have inadvertently stumbled upon this matter… I implore you to leave.”
Xu Ziqing waved his hand and gently replied, “This is not a situation I can meddle in. Thank you for the warning.” After a brief reflection, he retrieved another packet of medicinal leaves from his sleeve. “Since you have been kind enough to guide me, I would like to offer this as a token of appreciation. It contains rare spiritual herbs that I obtained. It was no small effort on your part today.”
Grateful, Chen accepted the packet and upon taking a whiff, he immediately recognized the preciousness of the spiritual herbs. He knew that once things settled down, he could sell them for a good price or even exchange them for a valuable body-forging pill. Filled with gratitude, he exclaimed, “I am truly grateful for your generosity, Immortal Master Yun… If you ever need assistance in the future, please do not hesitate to ask. I would gladly go through fire and water for you!”
Having developed a positive impression of Chen, Xu Ziqing smiled and replied, “That won’t be necessary. You go ahead, and I shall take my leave as well.”
With a final bow, Chen turned and strode away.
Observing Chen’s departure, Xu Ziqing let out a soft sigh.
Upper Quzhou had long been dominated by the influential Xu and Tian families, and it seemed that most of the thriving markets were associated with them. However, with the ongoing conflict between the two families, chaos had likely spread to the other markets as well. Xu Ziqing realized that he couldn’t stay in the vicinity any longer.
He contemplated the idea of embarking on a journey across the continent. Upper Quzhou spanned a vast area, and Xu Ziqing decided to travel all the way to the border. Beyond that point, lay the vast ocean, encircled by nine continents.
By crossing this ocean, one could reach the Upper Yuzhou, Upper Lanzhou, and Upper Qizhou Continents, depending on their chosen direction.
Upon arriving at this juncture, Xu Ziqing noticed a colossal spiritual ship floating on the ocean’s surface. It was several stories high and dozens of feet long. The eagle perched on his shoulder observed the ship with a curious tilt of its head, displaying a hint of innocence.
At the front of the ship stood a man who announced, “This ship is bound for Upper Yuzhou.”
While Xu Ziqing wasn’t sure of his destination, he only desired to distance himself from the conflicts of the Xu and Tian families. These three continents accessible from here were unrelated to the five major families, making them all viable options. Since the spiritual ship headed for Upper Yuzhou was still available, he decided to seize the opportunity.
With his decision made, Xu Ziqing raised his voice and inquired, “May I ask the cost of passage?”
The man replied, “If you wish to travel all the way to Upper Yuzhou, it will cost five catties of white jade!”
Realizing it wasn’t an inexpensive fare, Xu Ziqing responded, “Please deactivate the barrier and allow me to board.”
Upon hearing his request, the barrier shimmered, revealing an opening through which a single person could pass. Xu Ziqing gracefully soared through the air and headed straight to the bow of the ship. He smiled faintly as he handed a jade pouch to the man.
The male cultivator admired Xu Ziqing’s promptness and displayed a friendly expression, saying, “Welcome, fellow Daoist.”
With a pleasant smile adorning his face, Xu Ziqing scanned his surroundings and noticed that there were only a few cultivators on the boat, dressed similarly to the male cultivator, likely fellow passengers. However, there were about a dozen individuals emanating a subtle pressure, but they were quite distinct from cultivators. Xu Ziqing recognized them as Innate martial artists.
The male cultivator singled out one of the Innate martial artists and instructed him to guide Xu Ziqing to his cabin. It was then that Xu Ziqing realized these martial artists were serving as attendants on the spiritual ship.
The cabin itself was incredibly spacious, filled with a refreshing and comfortable aura. There were numerous rooms within the cabin, divided on the left and right sides, each with its own separate entrance. Xu Ziqing’s cabin was located on the left side and was remarkably roomy.
Escorting him to the room, the cultivator respectfully introduced himself, “I am Liu Sheng. Should you require anything, feel free to call me by my name.” He glanced at Chong Hua Eagle and added, “If there’s anything else you need, I’ll be able to assist you.”
Understanding that Liu Sheng meant he had access to various amenities on the ship, Xu Ziqing smiled and replied, “I appreciate your help. You may return to your duties.”
Liu Sheng then departed, closing the door behind him. After a few moments, he returned with a lacquered wooden food box and left once more.
Only when Xu Ziqing noticed that Liu Sheng didn’t return did he bother to inspect the room. It featured a stone bed adorned with a silk quilt and soft pillows. On the right side, there was a table and chairs, while a futon was placed on the left side, all meticulously arranged. As a monk, he didn’t prioritize luxury when away from home, but he couldn’t deny the thoughtfulness and consideration put into this setup.
Xu Ziqing had never encountered such an elegant room before. With no one else present, he playfully flew around for a while, exploring every nook and cranny.
Eventually, he landed on a horizontal shelf next to the expenses. Using his sharp claws, he hooked onto it and inspected the surroundings, pecking at the shelf with his beak, engrossed in his own little activities.
Xu Ziqing simply smiled and observed the eagle’s playful nature without saying much. Liu Sheng had mentioned that the spirit ship would depart from the sea in half an hour, so he patiently waited until then.
After a brief contemplation, Xu Ziqing delved into his consciousness and called out, “Brother Yun, do you have a moment?”
Initially disappointed by the lack of response, Xu Ziqing suddenly sensed movement in the ring, instantly feeling delighted.
In the next moment, a cold figure appeared in the room, dressed in snowy white garments exuding an icy aura. He inquired, “What is it?”
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1Quzhou: one of the nine continents