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Chapter 64: Exploiting Spirit Stones

In the interstellar world, there are robots that handle cleaning without the need for personal involvement. However, in the cultivation world, there are conveniences unique to that realm. Not to mention the pre-existing dust-repelling restrictions, even the simplest dust-clearing talisman can solve the issue. Corresponding to robots, there's also the existence of puppets in this world. Gu Yao is quite interested in puppets, but unfortunately, he can't access them at the moment.

The only thing lacking, Gu Yao feels, might be in terms of entertainment. The interstellar world is praised for its widespread star network, making it commendable compared to another virtual world in the real world.

After tidying up, the four companions went out to explore. Familiarity with the environment is better gained through firsthand experience than reading on paper or hearing from others.

"A few junior brothers, do you need a guide?" As soon as the four stepped out of the C-class area, they saw someone approaching with a smile, offering assistance.

The four exchanged glances, knowing well that this is one of the methods for academy students to earn spirit stones. It's clear that it won't be free.

Whenever they see senior brothers or sisters approaching with a smile, it immediately raises their vigilance.

Tian Feirong coughed lightly and stepped forward, stating that he and Xiao Pangzi would take care of external affairs. After all, he couldn't break his promise. Gu Yao and Chi Changye excel in alchemy and talisman crafting. Correction, if we talk about Chi Changye's true strength, it lies in combat, effortlessly defeating same-level demonic beasts. So, with Chi Changye's protection, the Quqiu Mountain Range isn't an unreachable place.

After Tian Feirong and the senior brother had a lengthy conversation, Xiao Pangzi also sneaked over to eavesdrop. In no time, the three returned, and the conditions had been negotiated. The other party agreed to take them on a tour outside the academy. Access to the inner academy required a special token or the accompaniment of an inner academy student.

"My surname is Kong, name is Ze. You can call me Senior Kong. This is my spirit bird. I'll fly you a bit lower; otherwise, walking on foot, you won't make it back before dark." Kong Ze blew a whistle, and a large white bird flew down, creating a small whirlwind below.

The bird was large, with a spacious back. Gu Yao was curious, and together with Tian Feirong and Xiao Pangzi, eagerly climbed on. Chi Changye's eyes twitched slightly, effortlessly leaping and landing steadily on the bird's back. Gu Yao looked up and felt a bit foolish.

"Little Yao, reach your hand over."

"Sure." Although Chi Changye made himself look ridiculous, Gu Yao happily reached out his hand. With a gentle pull, he floated over to Chi Changye's side. Kong Ze watched with a smile, and once the four were settled, he jumped onto the bird's neck and lightly patted it, and the white bird took off.

Chi Changye and Xiao Pangzi were fine, but Gu Yao and Tian Feirong hadn't experienced this before, so they were very excited. Under Kong Ze's control, the white bird didn't fly too high, providing a clearer view than flying on a flying device and looking down.

When leaving the residential area, they saw many birds taking off, indicating that many people, like Kong Ze, were doing business, perhaps trying to scrape spirit stones from new students.

"That building is the Transmission Hall, a place for teaching and practicing cultivation techniques. It also teaches basic alchemy, talisman crafting, and artifact techniques. New students must spend their first two years there. Of course, you can choose not to go, but if your cultivation doesn't stabilize and grow steadily during those two years, otherwise... hehe!"

Kong Ze's laughter made Tian Feirong and Xiao Pangzi tremble. Both were in the same boat, thinking that cultivation growth was as good as seeking death for them.

"After two years, you'll be assigned to various peaks – Pill Peak, Rune Peak, Artifact Peak, and Martial Peak. They are the most popular peaks in our academy. Those with exceptional qualifications are recruited by these peaks. Pill Peak is the most popular; just concocting a few pills has everyone clamoring to have you. Of course, it depends on whether you can actually concoct them. If you can, you'll earn a good amount and move into the A-class area early."

Gu Yao raised an eyebrow. It seems like people like to refer to alchemy as 'concocting pills'. Is it meant to belittle or envy alchemists?

Kong Ze continued with a grin, "There are also those who bankrupt themselves trying but end up being hired to cultivate spirit fields. So, be cautious when choosing Pill Peak. This is a careful reminder from Senior Brother. Don't think that entering there will make you rich."

Who doesn't understand this logic? Tian Feirong thought to himself, but he put on a smiling face and asked, "Which peak are you on, Senior Kong?"

Kong Ze is an old student, indicating that he has been in the academy for at least ten years. Of course, there is also the possibility of being recruited midway. So, it should be more than the initial two-year transmission period.

"I am on Spirit Bird Peak. Here, take a look. It seems that you guys came from that direction. Spirit Bird Peak specializes in raising spirit birds. It's actually quite good. Renting out spirit birds alone can generate a decent

income." Kong Ze persuaded.

Thinking about the previous welcoming gift, Tian Feirong and Xiao Pangzi felt that Kong Ze was not being fair. He specifically brought up this topic. Fortunately, they didn't get assigned, otherwise, it would have been nauseating. Why are all these old students so twisted?

"It seems quite good too. But I might have talent in alchemy. Haha!" Tian Feirong laughed.

"Every new student thinks that way. However, there are very few alchemists who truly become rich without a lack of spirit stones. Good luck, Junior Brother. When you strike it rich, remember to look after Senior Brother here." Kong Ze also chuckled.

"Look over there. That's the Mission Hall. If you want to earn spirit stones and are not familiar with the market, you can check the Mission Hall. Various tasks are posted there, and in the future, you can also post your tasks."

"There's the Spirit Plant Garden. Inside, there are large fields for spirit plants, specifically cultivating spirit herbs."

"The mountain peaks over there are where our academy's Treasury is located. The entire mountain belongs to them. Let me bring you closer to have a clear look." Despite his twisted sense of humor, Kong Ze responsibly brought them closer so they could see clearly. He also explained the rules for entering the Treasury.

Even with a flying vehicle, exploring the outer circle took quite some time. Kong Ze introduced them to some influential figures among the old students, well-known organizations within the academy, and finally escorted them to the centralized activity area for students. This place could also be called the commercial street of the outer circle, with various shops and many stalls. The owners behind these shops were either wealthy individual students or powerful organizations, such as those factional forces.

Since this place wasn't far from their residential area, Kong Ze chose it as the last stop. Tian Feirong also paid him fifteen spirit stones, which was the result of bargaining.

Kong Ze was quite satisfied after receiving the spirit stones. Before leaving, he said, "It's best to prepare some means of transportation, either a flying device or renting a spirit bird. If you choose to rent, go to the Spirit Bird Peak and mention my name. I'll give you a discount."

Tian Feirong muttered, "No wonder Tianfu Academy is nicknamed 'money at the cost of life.' It's only the first day, and we've already been tricked out of so many spirit stones."

"Look over there, it's the shop of the Star and Moon Trading Company!" Gu Yao noticed a particularly eye-catching store.

As they approached, they were immediately greeted by a beautiful female cultivator at the entrance. She said, "Welcome! Today, new students are entering the academy, and the Star and Moon Trading Company offers a 2% discount to all new students. Would you like to take a look inside? The Star and Moon Trading Company is the largest in Tianfu Academy, always honest, and the items sold are of guaranteed quality."

Gu Yao took a glance inside, feeling the abundant spiritual energy. However, considering his lack of spirit stones, he pulled Chi Changye's arm and walked away. Chi Changye followed him very obediently, a barely visible smile playing on his lips.

Seeing this, Tian Feirong and Xiao Pangzi quickly caught up. Xiao Pangzi grinned, "Senior Brother Zhou speaks nicely, a 2% discount even without him. What a cunning merchant!"

After a stroll, they returned to the C-class area. At the entrance, they were intercepted again, encountering people distributing flyers. They tried to recruit every entering and exiting student to join the factions they recommended, promoting the benefits of joining these factions and organizations. The four of them barely managed to escape.

On the way, Kong Ze reminded them that joining a good organization, like the Star and Moon Trading Company, required individual application. After applying, if the organization was interested, they would organize people to examine whether the applicant was qualified. It wasn't something anyone could join casually. The more difficult it was to join an organization, the higher its status and influence. These recruiting factions were notorious for extorting spirit stones.

Having eaten some spirit fruit snacks prepared when leaving the Shifang City, the four sat down to discuss their future survival plan.

Tian Feirong suggested, "We can set up a stall first. Little Yao, your pills, and Senior Brother Chi's spirit talismans are definitely of high quality. We won't worry about selling them. When we have enough spirit stones, we can rent a small shop. We can also hire someone like others do so that we don't have to stay in the shop all day. We can do whatever we want – practice, inquire about information, all of it takes time."

"Is Gu Yao an alchemist?" Xiao Pangzi looked at Gu Yao in surprise.

"Nonsense! Gu Yao isn't just an alchemist. How do you think he gathered enough entrance fees? Don't be fooled by appearances. Although Gu Yao doesn't have a family to rely on, he lives more comfortably than someone like me from a family. Both Gu Yao and Senior Brother Chi are talented!" Tian Feirong praised, and someone unaware might think he was praising himself.

Gu Yao raised an eyebrow. Xiao Pangzi indeed seemed quite sensitive to alchemists.

Gu Yao expressed his concern, "If we set up a stall, won't there be people causing trouble and sabotage? This academy is not a peaceful place. In the higher institutions of the Interstellar Union, there are various unspoken rules beneath the surface. I don't believe this place won't attract attention."

Tian Feirong rubbed his chin, "I think we can promote Little Yao's alchemist reputation by setting up a stall. According to Senior Brother Kong, a good alchemist has a high status. Won't they be afraid of offending a future eighth-grade alchemist?"

Xiao Pangzi opened his mouth but closed it again, unsure of how to respond. Tian Feirong was too confident. As far as he knew, except for Chi Changye, who was unaware of the situation, the aptitudes of the three of them were quite poor. Building the foundation seemed like an elusive dream.

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