Chapter 96: The Governor's Recommendation
Jiang Xia and Ma Tishu only met once.
The leader of Sanque Mountain is a cultivator in the Cunzhen realm, the same realm as Wang Liufu, but judging from his appearance, he is older than Wang Liufu.
I have heard Ma Tishu talk about spiritual practice before. He said that if one cannot set foot in the true state before knowing one’s destiny, the path of spiritual practice will come to an end.
Judging from Ma Tishu's appearance, he was probably only able to pass the Qi training stage and enter the realm of Cunzhen before that deadline. In other words, the talent of this sect leader who came from a casual cultivator background was not very good.
Much worse than Wang Liufu.
At Master Ma's current age, it would be extremely difficult for him to make further progress on the path of cultivation, but Ma Tishu is a rare alchemy practitioner.
Well-known for his ability to accumulate strength over time and his endurance.
Who knows, maybe this Immortal Ma will get lucky one day and be able to make a precious medicine, and then it will be easy for him to break through to a new realm.
But even if he doesn't make any more breakthroughs, it would be easy for Master Matthew to live another 100 or 200 years.
Since there is no hope in cultivation, one must use his energy on other things. Judging from the previous contact between Jiang Xia and Master Ma, this Cunzhen Dan cultivator also has the intention to expand the scale of Sanque Mountain.
The idea is probably to place hope on the next generation. Although Sanque Mountain has some status in the Fengming Country, it is far inferior to Moshuang Mountain.
But compared to a casual cultivator who has no background and relies entirely on himself, he is much more generous.
To be honest, when Ma Tishu took the initiative to propose to recruit Jiang Xia into the mountain sect, even though Old Jiang was knowledgeable and experienced, he still had some ideas in his mind.
But he quickly thought of it.
It was Ma Tishu who had tested his aptitude before. This monk Ma had already made it very clear that with Jiang Xia's special golden spiritual roots, it would be difficult for him to find a suitable cultivation method in the Fengming Kingdom.
Wang Liufu said that Sanqueshan mainly practices a fire-based martial art, and he probably doesn't have any martial arts that can be used by him.
But now he wanted to accept Jiang Xia as his disciple, which was definitely not because he was impressed by Jiang Xia's not-so-outstanding aptitude for cultivation.
"This smart man probably has his eyes on my secret method of spiritual ore."
Jiang Xia blinked and immediately understood what Ma Tishu was thinking.
Ruyifang has collapsed.
The monopoly business of Fengming Country's spiritual stones fell into the hands of Kunlun Square in the hands of Jiang Xia. Jiang Xia had nothing to do with Mo Shuang Mountain. If Jiang Xia could be recruited into the mountain now, the monopoly business would naturally belong to Sanque Mountain.
With this kind of business in hand, I am afraid that within ten years or so, Sanque Mountain will be able to rise and become the second giant in the local area after Mo Shuang Mountain.
Maybe if you are lucky, you can even walk and enter the Immortal Alliance.
He didn't dare to think about being among the thirty-three sects , but being a formal member of the Immortal Alliance would have many advantages. At least he could get rid of the embarrassing situation of associating with independent cultivators and wild people.
Now Jiang Xia was expelled from Mo Shuang Mountain and became a helpless independent cultivator. He was about to become a cultivator, so he chose the best time to send out the invitation.
I think Jiang Xia will not refuse.
These three sparrows really have a good plan.
As a cultivator at the level of True Realm, he was able to agree to Governor Hong's invitation to Jiang Xia, a current mortal, in his own name. He also had his own calculations.
"I won't hide it from Master Ma."
Jiang Xia did not refuse immediately. After all, the other person meant well. If you refuse him in person, you would be slapping him in the face.
This kind of thing cannot be done.
He politely bowed to Ma Tishu and said:
"I do want to practice cultivation. Immortal Ma has condescended to invite me personally, and I feel very warm inside. However, I have some troubles.
When fighting Liu Ruyi before, he offended an inner disciple of Mo Shuangshan, who was named Chu Qiao.
I heard that he is highly valued in the immortal sect."
As soon as he said this, Ma Tishu's expression changed immediately, and the smile that came from the bottom of his heart became a little forced. Obviously, he knew who Chu Qiao was.
I also know Chu Qiao's background.
Jiang Xia looked at Ma Tishu's expression and said softly:
“I am not an ignorant person, Immortal Ma. I am really afraid that if I go to your Sanque Mountain, I will bring disaster to your Sanque Mountain. Immortal Ma has helped me a lot and is my benefactor.
I haven't even had time to repay my gratitude, so how can I cause trouble for Immortal Ma?"
"Its Mo Shuang Mountain is powerful, but my San Que Mountain also has a legacy. It won't be easy for him to bully others by taking advantage of his power."
Ma Tishu coughed, said some polite words, and then twirled his beard.
Smiling, he walked down the hill and said:
“But since you have your own ideas, I will not force you. It makes me sad to miss such a precious jade.
Alas, this is my fate and I cannot force it.
Let’s leave tonight’s matter at this point. I will leave now and will not participate in this mortal gathering.”
After saying this, Master Ma was about to leave, but was stopped by Jiang Xia.
He said to Martyrs:
“Master Ma, please don’t worry. I have just opened my sea of consciousness and have not yet drawn spiritual energy into my body. My aptitude is a little poor, so I want to find some good elixirs. I heard that Master Ma is the best at refining elixirs and is a first-class elixir practitioner in Fengming Country. He must have spiritual medicines in his hands, so I want to buy some.
I will buy it with immortal money. I wonder if Immortal Ma can give it up?"
"Sure, sure."
Ma Tishu chuckled and waved his long sleeves. In Jiang Xia's hand, there were two exquisite porcelain bottles with red stoppers.
"This is the Soul Gathering Pill that I refined a few days ago. It is considered to be of upper-middle grade. Although it is not expensive, it is the most suitable for someone like you who is about to enter the Qi training stage.
This pill has the effect of gathering energy. It can generate spiritual energy in the meridians, and it can also speed up the circulation of spiritual energy during practice. It is also useful in the state of existence of truth.
This state of Qi training is the simplest. As long as you are persistent, you will see results soon.
As for the immortal money, there is no need for it."
He saw Jiang Xia taking out his purse and pretending to give him money, so he stretched out his hand to stop him. He then took out a whisk from somewhere and shook it.
While saying:
"I have a great affinity with you, my friend. These two bottles of Gathering Spirit Pills are gifts to congratulate you on your journey to cultivation. We should establish a good relationship with you. We are all Fengming cultivators, so there is no need to be so distant with each other."
As he spoke, Immortal Ma waved his whisk again, and a piece of jade was handed into Jiang Xia's hands. He said:
"My friend, practice diligently. If you encounter something you don't understand, you can use this item to ask me."
"Thank you, Immortal."
Jiang Xia received the gift and leaned over to thank him. He heard a laugh and a cold wind blew in his face. When he raised his head again, Ma Tishu had disappeared. He looked up.
Under the crescent moon in the night, Immortal Ma was already flying away in the distance on his black eagle, with his long sleeves fluttering and his whisk waving gently, looking like an immortal.
He walked in a very cool manner.
"These monks always care about appearances wherever they go."
Jiang Xia put away the elixir and jade pendant, and watched Ma Tishu leave, thinking:
"But this spiritual bird is just a demon soldier, right? Tsk tsk, Immortal Ma's presence is not enough. I, a mortal, have Liu Hui, that stupid demon general, serving me.
But it cannot be seen in public now. When I become a cultivator and take it out, I’m afraid it will scare him.
Sanquezi is a wonderful person.
He knows how to protect himself, knows when to advance and when to retreat, has strength, and speaks well. He can be made friends with like Wang Liufu. "
Thinking of this, Jiang Xia followed the blue-clothed servant and walked deeper into the courtyard. After passing the main hall, he saw an old acquaintance waiting for him in front.
Butler Hong Sen.
This man was wearing a servant's clothes tonight and a small hat, exuding an aura of subservience, just like a butler in charge, but he should not be underestimated.
The fact that this man could speak on behalf of Governor Hong in Fengshan and single-handedly secure a big deal worth tens of thousands of silver dollars shows that although he had no official status, he was indeed the governor's confidant.
"Brother Maolin, how dare you trouble me to come and greet me in person?"
Jiang Xia's face was full of smiles. He took a few steps forward and bowed to Butler Hong, who also responded with a smile:
"Brother Ziheng is wrong. You have done a great thing with my master this time. You have contributed to the country and brought down the troublemaker. You are truly a great contributor.
If it weren't for Brother Ziheng's single-minded admiration for the immortal path, his indifference to the mundane world, and his lack of interest in worldly fame and fortune, with your merits, wealth and glory would be within your reach.
This also makes my master often sigh, saying that Brother Ziheng is such a pillar of the country, but he cannot serve as an official in the court, which is a great regret for Fengming Country.
Brother Ziheng is invited to the banquet tonight. If my master were not so old, he would come to greet you personally."
"No, no, Brother Mao Lin has used his own strength to train new soldiers for the governor and the country, sweeping away the old airs. This is the real pillar of the country.
I, Jiang, am just a profit-seeking businessman. How can I compare to the talent of Brother Mao Lin?"
The two looked at each other and smiled.
The business was praised by both parties and the guests were very happy.
Led by the witty butler Hong, they walked through the hall and went straight to the private residence in the backyard.
Along the way, Jiang Xia carefully observed the personal guards who were on guard at night. They had all been equipped with exquisite muskets, their bayonets were polished to a sharp shine, and they also had automatic pistols, wooden-handled grenades and waist knives on their waists.
Each of them was wearing leather armor and had a solemn expression, and they were obviously elite soldiers.
He also saw several familiar guards.
Judging from their appearances, they have probably been promoted and have their own subordinates. If I'm not mistaken, these people will be the commanders of Governor Hong's new troops in the future.
They were lucky.
"This wise man is Jiang Xia Jiang Ziheng?"
When they walked into a small courtyard, an old man with a cane, wearing a long gown and with gray hair stood up, looked at Jiang Xia with a smile on his face, nodded continuously and said:
"Well, you are really a handsome man, a real hero. Come, drink a few glasses with me as a toast."
Jiang Xia was not polite either. He stepped forward, picked up the wine glass and took a sip first.
Seeing that Governor Hong was about to speak, he asked first:
"Sir Governor, when I was fighting the villain Liu Ruyi, I heard him say that the star formation at Fengshan that almost took my life was set by someone sent by the Governor?"
As soon as these words were spoken, the atmosphere in the courtyard immediately became gloomy and stagnant.
Governor Hong narrowed his eyes . This was the first time he met Jiang Xia, but he had heard from Hong Sen that Jiang Xia was not a reckless person. But this time he opened his mouth and talked about this matter.
Could it be...
"Don't think too much, sir."
Jiang Xia smiled and said softly:
“I am not here to call you to task. I am just saying that the governor has great strategies. Although the star array almost cost me my life, it was also a turning point in my life.
If it weren't for the prefect's strategy, I would still be a down-and-out scholar. How could I have the qualifications to chat and laugh with the prefect today?
Jiang mentioned this matter to thank the governor.
Although the prefect did it unintentionally, it was still a favor to me. Although I have never met the prefect, I have never forgotten this favor.
Today I would like to express my gratitude with these three glasses of fine wine.
I did it, Your Excellency, please do as you please."
After saying that, Jiang Xia tilted his head back and drank the glass of wine, then poured himself two more glasses, which he also drank in one gulp. Governor Hong's expression also changed.
Seeing Jiang Xia drink three glasses of wine generously, he also revealed a gentler smile.
The atmosphere in the courtyard suddenly became comfortable again.
This Jiangxia has a rough and unrestrained air, he is not pretentious, but he is really good at talking and building relationships. With just a few words and a glass of wine, a somewhat unfamiliar relationship between two parties can become harmonious.
But there's not much to say after that.
Governor Hong was the host, and Steward Hong also sat down. While urging people to drink, they talked about the past. Governor Hong drank a few glasses and also talked about his regret of joining the army in his early years and seeing the country's weakness.
He also talked about Jiang Xia’s new weapons and the training of new recruits.
From what he said, he wanted to strengthen the cooperation between the two sides, and also wanted more muskets and ammunition, and more training for new soldiers, but he did not talk about specific business.
This is normal, some things can be discussed over a drink.
But some things cannot be discussed so bluntly, especially military and national affairs.
After both parties had a round of drinks, Butler Hong called for dancers. The courtyard was decorated with lanterns, and under the moon, they watched beauties dancing with the faint sound of stringed instruments. It was a much simpler scene than what Jiang Xia had seen in his previous life.
Not so vulgar.
But it also has a unique flavor.
"Zi Heng, I actually wanted to invite a distinguished guest to meet you tonight."
The governor leaned back in his chair and spoke in the tone of an elder to a younger person:
“That person is also a cultivator like you, and he is also my junior. You two are of similar age, and I originally wanted to get to know him better so that I can take care of him in the future on the path of cultivation.
But unfortunately, after not seeing him for many years, he is still the same taciturn person, too shy to see anyone, which really makes me feel a little regretful. "
"oh?"
Jiang Xia put down his wine glass, turned his eyes away from the gauze dancers, looked at Governor Hong, pondered for a few breaths, and asked:
"Could it be that the governor is talking about... His Royal Highness the Third Prince?"
"Haha, Ziheng is indeed a smart person."
Governor Hong laughed, played with his wine glass, and said to Jiang Xia:
"Yes, that's my nephew.
Some time ago, he returned to the capital from Mo Shuang Mountain to visit his parents. He happened to be going back to the Xianshan Sect these few days, so he came to see his uncle, that is, me, on the way.
He has been in Mo Shuang Mountain for many years and has been influenced by the habits of the Mohist monks. He is quite interested in mechanical engineering. The thunder cannon that Mao Lin bought from you has been dismantled by him several times in the past few days.
He also heard Mao Lin say that Ziheng, you have a musket that can kill thousands of enemies, so he pestered me to see you. This dinner tonight was originally held for him and you.
But here you are.
However, he controlled his attitude and said that when the Mo family met, no outsiders should be allowed to watch.
Alas, I was born in the deep palace, and when I was older I was sent to the immortal sect to study. Now I am also in my early twenties, but I don’t know anything about the ways of the world. Compared with you, Ziheng, I am really useless.
This really makes me feel helpless."
At this point, the old governor sighed, his face full of useless worries about the younger generation. At this moment, the shrewd Governor Hong took off his disguise and looked like an uncle who was worried about his nephew's future.
He said to Jiang Xia:
“Zi Heng, I know you are a man of integrity, and you will set foot on the immortal path and leave the mortal world. You are also a guest today, so this shouldn’t be the case.
But for my sake, please go meet him, okay?"
