Published: September 8, 2025
Chapter 722: First Encounter with the Jade Talisman
After listening to Han Li's words, Ancestor Linghu frowned and fell silent for a moment, then slowly picked up his teacup and took a sip.
“Han Daoist, I am well aware of what you said. But I am not like you. I have stayed in Yellow Maple Valley for over a thousand years and have far deeper feelings for it than most. Naturally, I don't want the valley to lose its legacy after I pass away. It seems you truly are not tempted by fame or fortune. However, if you are willing to accept the position of elder of Yellow Maple Valley, I would be willing to gift you some of my belongings after I pass on—treasures I have collected over the years. They will be very useful for your cultivation in the future.” Ancestor Linghu said unexpectedly, catching Han Li off guard.
“Your belongings, left to me? If I remember correctly, you have disciples of your own, don’t you?” Han Li’s heart skipped a beat at this, but instinctively narrowed his eyes and asked calmly.
“My disciples’ cultivation bases don’t even reach mid foundation formation. Leaving them such treasures would only bring disaster. Even if you hadn’t appeared, I would have dealt with most of my treasures in another way instead of leaving them in Yellow Maple Valley,” Ancestor Linghu sneered coldly.
Han Li stroked his chin, contemplating.
Of course, it was impossible that Han Li was not tempted by Ancestor Linghu’s offer. But he was also well aware that accepting the elder position would immediately mean facing a series of thorny issues involving the Six Sects and the Nine Nations Alliance. These matters were not something to be resolved quickly. Moreover, as the sole elder of Yellow Maple Valley, he would wield great power but would no longer live as freely as he did in Luoyun Sect.
Even more critically, there were complicated problems involving Nangong Wan and the Moon Veil Sect entwined in this.
“Thank you for your kind intentions, Daoist Linghu. I still think it’s best not to discuss joining Yellow Maple Valley,” Han Li said after much thought, shaking his head in refusal.
Ancestor Linghu did not get angry upon hearing this; instead, his face was full of helplessness.
“If even these conditions don’t persuade you, it seems Han Daoist truly does not want to wade into the muddy waters of the Six Sects. In that case, I’ll change the terms,” Ancestor Linghu sighed before speaking.
“How will you change them?” Han Li’s expression shifted with curiosity.
“Very well. You don’t need to become an elder of Yellow Maple Valley. Instead, I will give you three precious treasures, in exchange for your help to Yellow Maple Valley three times in your lifetime. Of course, such assistance should only be within your ability,” Ancestor Linghu said with a wry smile.
“Helping three times within my ability? That’s not an unreasonable request. I can agree to that,” Han Li nodded quickly after some thought.
A hint of a smile appeared on Ancestor Linghu’s face. He then reached to his waist and took out three items, placing them on the table as if they had long been prepared.
Han Li said nothing and focused on the three objects, inspecting them briefly.
There was a small bluish crystal shield, a red jade bottle, and a black object resembling a jade pendant.
Han Li did not hesitate and first picked up the bluish shield.
The shield felt soft and light in his hand, almost like it was weightless. This surprised Han Li. Upon closer inspection with his current knowledge, he couldn’t tell what material it was made from.
“This is an ancient treasure I obtained in my younger years. It has stayed with me for a long time. I call it the ‘Blue Light Shield.’ Its magical abilities are considerable—especially when defending against fire attribute attacks, it is particularly remarkable. You’ll realize I’m not exaggerating once you try it,” Ancestor Linghu said, looking reluctant to part with the shield.
Han Li ran his hand lightly over the shield’s surface once or twice, then put it back on the table, knowing it was truly extraordinary and that Ancestor Linghu was not lying.