https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-114-The-Truth-Beyond-the-Wilderness/12988923/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-116-Grandmaster-Taixu-s-Frontline-Defense-It-Seems-/12988925/
Chapter 115: The Treasure Map
Chapter 115: The Treasure Map
Upon hearing Mr. Ouyang's words, Su Chen felt a surge of gratitude.
Back when he was in the Yunyang Sect, if the sect had not assigned him a particular task, there could only be one reason—they doubted his abilities.
But Mr. Ouyang was concerned about his safety.
"With such strange occurrences on the frontline, I fear we might not find the real cause, and we could face even greater troubles later on. If we panic and fail to respond appropriately, this frontline might encounter a major calamity."
Su Chen looked at Mr. Ouyang, hoping he would agree with his thoughts.
"A man without foresight will surely have worries at hand."
Hearing these words, Mr. Ouyang repeated them with a hint of resignation on his face.
"You and I are both born with a fate of hard work. These matters are usually the concern of the sect's upper echelon. Yet, here we are, discussing them."
With a sigh, Mr. Ouyang seemed to relent.
"It's true that your current training alongside other disciples isn't significantly benefiting your progress. Venturing into the wilderness for training might indeed be an opportunity for you. Once you embark on the path of cultivation, danger becomes an inevitable companion. Seeking only safety will hinder your growth. Even Elder Gu Feng is heading into perilous lands for cultivation, and other disciples must take similar risks to achieve greatness."
Mr. Ouyang paused and then descended from the frontline.
He asked Su Chen to wait while he retrieved something from the tent.
In less than a quarter of an hour, Mr. Ouyang returned with a piece of bamboo paper in hand.
This type of paper was crude, but its affordability and ease of preservation made it suitable for writing.
Using the light from the nearby fire, Mr. Ouyang unfolded the paper.
Su Chen glanced at it, and it seemed to be a map.
This map of the wilderness ahead wasn't particularly rare; even Tiangang City had one.
However, the one in Mr. Ouyang's hand had unique features.
The map had numerous special markings.
It indicated the locations of precious medicinal herbs in the wilderness.
In essence, this map was a treasure-hunting guide.
Such items were typically considered invaluable treasures.
"Mr. Ouyang, what is this?" Su Chen asked, slightly taken aback.
Mr. Ouyang, standing beside him, smiled.
"Take this and make a copy. Return the original to me tomorrow. Since you're going to the wilderness for training, you might as well seize the opportunity to gather some treasures. With this map, you won't be aimlessly wandering like a headless fly. Although you're a direct disciple of the sect, resources aren't infinite. Acquiring more treasures will undoubtedly benefit you."
Su Chen examined the map, still somewhat surprised.
"Mr. Ouyang, isn't this map a bit too precious?"
"Take it. If you can find valuable herbs and treasures in the wilderness, it will be your skill. This map can only provide limited assistance. It mostly marks general areas, and the actual searching will depend on you. Additionally, you can try your luck in this red soil region. It's said that there's a secret realm there with treasures left by ancestors. But don't become too fixated; such rumors aren't always true."
Mr. Ouyang pointed at different locations on the map, offering various suggestions to Su Chen.
After finishing his advice, he extended his finger and pointed at the Mao Family Valley area.
"Stay away from this area at all costs. Earlier this year, a heavenly demon went berserk here. Moreover, every winter, powerful cultivators come here in search of treasures. If there are any treasures, they will have been taken by these cultivators before we even get a chance."
Remember to avoid the Mao Family Valley area as much as possible.
Also, the sect will be opening the Mountain River Pool soon.
Don't linger here for too long."
Su Chen nodded, understanding that the Mountain River Pool was likely something beneficial for cultivation.
Without further hesitation, he accepted the map.
Tonight, the two of them would be stationed on the frontline.
Indeed, things were much more peaceful now compared to before, but the old rules were still being followed.
No one knew if the demons might suddenly launch another surprise attack.
The necessary precautions must always be taken, and vigilance must not be relaxed.
It was already past the third hour.
Su Chen went to relight the stove and started cooking some dishes.
As they sat there drinking tea, Su Chen felt it was a bit monotonous.
A student and a teacher sat by the stove, eating and drinking.
They chatted about trivial matters, and Mr. Ouyang's expression turned serious.
"Su Chen, what do you think of Jin Yue?"
"Jin Shimei has exceptional talent, and her swordsmanship is truly remarkable. She will likely become a powerful figure in the future."
Upon hearing Su Chen's evaluation, Ouyang Chuan waved his hands repeatedly.
"I'm not asking about her talent, but about her as a person—her appearance and figure.
As for her talent, I, as her teacher, would have already looked into it."
With no one else around, Mr. Ouyang's words became more casual.
Su Chen was momentarily unsure how to respond.
He hesitated for a moment before replying.
"Jin Shimei is naturally beautiful, with a graceful and spiritual aura.
Her family background is prominent. Last time, I casually mentioned that her family wasn't particularly wealthy.
She then bought half a street's worth of real estate in Jiang'an City and gifted it to me.
This gesture surprised me."
Ouyang Chuan nodded after hearing this.
"Jin Yue is from the Jin family, a renowned herb alchemy family. In terms of wealth, her family is indeed well-off.
Since you saved her life, you are entitled to accept her gift.
Just make sure you don't have any other intentions towards her."
As soon as he finished speaking, Ouyang Chuan realized his words might have been inappropriate, and he quickly tried to clarify.
"I'm not implying that you, Su Chen, are inadequate in any way.
It's just that Jin Yue's family background is not a good match for you.
Don't even think about defying societal norms."
Su Chen smiled, unbothered by Ouyang Chuan's words.
"Mr. Ouyang, I understand what you mean.
I assure you that nothing will happen between Jin Yue and me that you're concerned about."
However, Ouyang Chuan shook his head upon hearing this.
"You might think it's nothing, but you don't know what Jin Yue is thinking.
Lately, her eyes have been frequently glancing in your direction.
If you pay close attention, you'll notice that every time she smiles, her gaze is directed at you."
Su Chen hadn't noticed these details.
"Don't worry about it. You can interact with her as you normally would.
Just don't initiate any closeness with Jin Yue. The Jin family can't really object.
If Jin Yue has feelings for you, it's not your fault. Just don't pursue her."
Su Chen nodded, indicating his understanding.
Sitting by the fireplace, the two continued eating and drinking tea.
"Mr. Ouyang, I've always had a question.
The Jin family is so prominent, yet they seem so trusting of their younger generation.
In those plays, the young masters and young ladies are always spoiled."
This question had been bothering Su Chen for quite some time.
The previous Lin Tian, a senior brother with considerable power, was also from a well-off family.
Yet, he was sent to Tiangang City for training and nearly lost his life in the wilderness if it weren't for Su Chen's intervention.
(End of Chapter)
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