Li Xinyue

Quan Feng strode confidently into the array shop, his sharp gaze surveying the shelves for something unique that could provide an edge in battle using array formations. After learning for a few years, he was well-versed in the materials and ingredients commonly used in array formations.

In the corner of the shop, he stumbled upon a display of expertly crafted artifacts. Though expensive, these items possessed unmatched power. Intrigued, Quan Feng had never used an artifact as the core of an array formation and was eager to explore this new avenue.

One artifact, in particular, caught his attention. It was a stunning necklace, radiating a pure energy aura that sent chills down his spine. As he gazed at it, he felt a thrill of excitement at the thought of incorporating it into his next formation.

Suddenly, a woman who was already admiring the necklace spoke up.

"It is beautiful, isn't?"

She was a vision of beauty, with short white hair and a carefree spirit that shone through her playful gaze. Despite her stunning looks, Quan Feng remained focused on the necklace.

"It's a sight to behold. This necklace is a remarkable testament to the skill required to create such a masterpiece," he replied coolly.

The necklace's chain was intricately crafted with glistening gold strands, shimmering in the light. A polished gemstone hung at the center, encased in a web of silver filigree that emitted an otherworldly aura.

The woman regarded Quan Feng with a slight smile. "Few people recognize the true value of this necklace. Do you, by any chance, possess knowledge of array formations?"

"I am quite passionate about array formations and have always been captivated by their complexity and potential," replied Quan Feng, his interest in the subject evident in his tone.

Intrigued, the woman proceeded to ask Quan Feng more questions, attempting to discern his motives for approaching her. It wasn't uncommon for men to use her passion for array formations as an excuse to win her favor.

Unbeknownst to them, they soon became engrossed in a conversation about array formations and only realized it after some time had passed.

Although the woman was sought after by many suitors due to her beauty, talent, and knowledge, she couldn't help but be impressed by Quan Feng's genuine passion for array formations.

'Perhaps I would have given him a chance, especially with such a handsome face,' she thought to herself.

As Li Xinyue and Quan Feng were talking, another woman approached them.

"Hey, Li Xinyue. Can you do me a favor?" the woman said.

Li Xinyue was surprised. Her friend rarely asked her for anything, so she was curious about what the girl wanted. "Liu Xuefang? What can I do for you?" she asked.

"My little brother, Liu Feng, is a very good friend of a young man named 'Quan Feng' and happens to owe him a favor. Can you give that person a little discount? My little brother has been begging me for a while..." Liu Xuefang said with an embarrassed face.

Li Xinyue chuckled and smiled. "You don't need to worry," she said, looking at Quan Feng. "I would have given a good discount to him even if you didn't ask me."

This surprised Liu Xuefang, who was Li Xinyue's best friend. She knew almost everyone Li Xinyue was acquainted with, but her friend has never talked about a man called Quan Feng.

As Liu Xuefang followed Li Xinyue's gaze to Quan Feng, she raised an eyebrow in surprise. She had never seen a man getting along with her best friend as Li Xinyue usually ignored them when they came to talk to her.

Quan Feng also thought this was an unexpected turn of events. Li Xinyue happened to be a friend of Liu Feng's older sister.

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Accompanied by Peanut, Quan Feng left the array shop in a good mood. Li Xinyue had been so generous that she gave him a 20% discount. Unfortunately, he didn't have enough money to buy the necklace he wanted. Quan Feng promised himself that once he was rich enough to afford it, he would come back to get it.

Later, Liu Xuefang asked her friend about Quan Feng's identity. "It's rare to see you that interested in a man. I couldn't see through his cultivation. That means he is stronger than me, so he should be at least at the seventh stage Foundation Establishment realm. Do you know his identity?"

"I don't know either. But he is an interesting man. We should ask your little brother since they are good friends," Li Xinyue replied.

After Quan Feng got the ingredients he needed, he found an inn to stay and cultivated until night. Suddenly, he received a notification from the system.

Suddenly, he felt a rush of energy coursing through his body. It was a familiar sensation, one that he had felt before when he broke through to a new level of power.

[Congratulations to the host for breaking through to the sixth stage Core Formation realm!] the system announced in his mind.

Quan Feng was pleased. He had become even stronger, which meant he would have an easier time facing the evil ghost.

"What?!"

However, Quan Feng was shocked to find out that he was already 50% into the seventh stage Core Formation realm!

As he absorbed the energy, he became acutely aware of his surroundings. Colors were brighter, sounds were crisper, and he could feel the energy of the city pulsing around him.

He then noticed that Peanut had broken through to the second stage Core Formation realm while sleeping. Quan Feng couldn't help but feel frustrated that the lazy dog could cultivate effortlessly, while he had to put in so much effort.

But then he had a realization: if he could get stronger simultaneously as Peanut, that meant he also had the advantage of becoming stronger while doing nothing. His mood soared as he continued cultivating.