Chapter 1032: Generous Rewards

Since this task was so crucial, He Lingchuan, as the one undertaking it, naturally became very important.

But he still pointed at Fang Canran, asking, "Why wasn't this task assigned to Brother Songyuan?"

Fang Canran immediately replied, "Uncle Wang likely believes I'm not suitable for it."

Wang Xingyi hummed in acknowledgment, "Songyuan possesses a tenacious character and can endure hardships, but this task demands exceptional cultivation and sharp, adaptable reflexes. It would be too dangerous for Songyuan to go."

Before arriving in Yangshan, Wang Xingyi had been somewhat intrigued by Fang Canran's accounts of He Lingchuan's accomplishments, prompting him to come and assess the situation himself. Observing He Lingchuan's effortless handling of the hurricane, the Imperial Dew, the sudden uprising of the Bailong people, and Beijia's provocations, Wang Xingyi recognized that he indeed met the organization's requirements. It was then that he proposed the task.

To his surprise, the young man began to prevaricate and make excuses. Wang Xingyi immediately saw that He Lingchuan wasn't unwilling to take on the task, but rather wanted to negotiate the terms. He was not a member of Lingshan. If Lingshan wished to entrust him with a task and send him into danger, they would have to pay a price.

Wang Xingyi was not annoyed. Talented individuals often possess a degree of arrogance, embodying the saying that "capable people are difficult to manage, while sycophants are easy to manage but ineffective."

"The mission is challenging, and I cannot ask you to shoulder the risk without compensation. Therefore, I discussed this with Songyuan," Wang Xingyi explained. "Firstly, as the newly appointed island lord, you need support. If you successfully complete this task, Mou State will acquire all output from the Yangshan Archipelago for the next seven years at a price ten percent below market value."

He Lingchuan was visibly moved and felt a strong urge to give a thumbs-up, praising, "Boss, that's incredibly generous!" This offer effectively provided an economic safety net for the Yangshan Archipelago. If he accepted, the archipelago's income for the next seven years would be exceptionally stable. The greatest risk in business lies in uncertainty. Wang Xingyi's offer of such a favorable outlook was clearly intended to bolster the Yangshan Archipelago's economic development and personally enrich He Lingchuan.

However, he merely hummed and nodded. The terms were favorable, but they hadn't quite won him over.

Wang Xingyi continued, "Secondly, upon the successful completion of this task, I had intended to recommend you as the Land Administrator for Mou State's three eastern provinces. This position would grant you significant authority, as you would be solely responsible for surveying, approving, and inspecting all mountain forests, cultivated lands, and urban areas." At that time, land was the nation's most vital means of production, and wielding authority over it was a privilege universally envied.

Fang Canran added from the side, "Several former Grand Stewards of Agriculture in Mou State had previously served as Land Administrators."

Wang Xingyi leisurely stated, "However, since you have no interest in holding an official position, we can disregard this."

He Lingchuan gave a wry smile. *'Forget it then,'* he thought. But to bring it up so deliberately—the Grand Master was clearly trying to tempt him with power and wealth.

"Furthermore, I will personally give you a few magical artifacts, which I can provide immediately." The first two conditions were contingent on He Lingchuan completing the mission and returning alive, akin to empty promises. Only this final offer was something tangible he would receive at once.

Lingshan's conditions had been laid out, and they awaited He Lingchuan's response. To be frank, the negotiation felt somewhat unfair, as He Lingchuan was not fully aware of the extent of the risks he would be undertaking. His guiding principle had always been that rewards must be commensurate with risk. However, negotiating terms as an individual against a formidable entity like Lingshan was inherently disadvantageous. Still, he wasn't fighting for immediate gains or losses.

After a long moment of contemplation, He Lingchuan finally spoke, "Regarding the first point, concerning the Yangshan Archipelago's sale of goods to Mou State, I would like to retain the right of choice."

Meaning, to sell when he wants to, and not to sell when he doesn't?

Wang Xingyi smiled. "Mou State typically places orders for bulk goods like rice and oil six months to a year in advance. You cannot simply renege on a commitment at the last minute."

"If Mou State has a demand and negotiates several months or half a year in advance, that's perfectly acceptable," He Lingchuan said, ever mindful of contractual integrity. "Mou State is currently at war with Beijia, which will inevitably impact its financial resources. If it were to commit to purchasing all of Yangshan's produce, buying unneeded items would simply be a waste of money." He sincerely stated, "It would be best if we each acquire what we need. Therefore, Yangshan only seeks a preferential right to sell its produce. Provided the quality is equal, Mou State simply needs to be willing to prioritize purchasing Yangshan's goods."

The Soul Mirror in his arms chimed in, "Hey, someone is offering to provide an economic safety net for the Yangshan Archipelago. What's wrong with that? Why would you refuse?" To produce anything and have a guaranteed buyer, to sell everything you make—that feeling is simply incredible!

He Lingchuan merely smiled, remaining silent. Seven years is a long time; who can predict the state of the world seven years from now? Currently, the conflict between Beijia and Mou State is merely a series of minor skirmishes. These two great powers are not yet fighting with their full might; it's as if they are only using one fist. But who knows when the war might expand or escalate? When that happens, will Mou State's finances still be so comfortable? If Mou State's resources are depleted by the war, yet it's still obligated to purchase Yangshan's produce, what do you suppose it would do? It would likely exploit loopholes in the agreement, buying as little as possible or even nothing at all. Discussing money can strain relationships, and once a dispute escalates, it reflects poorly on both parties. From the information He Lingchuan had been steadily gathering, Mou State's temperament was even more volatile than Beijia's. Who knew if it might suddenly turn on Yangshan?

Therefore, it's better for everyone to compromise from the outset and maintain a relationship based on good negotiation and mutual benefit. They can buy when they're able, and if not, then it's fine. This way, Mou State faces no pressure. He Lingchuan was certainly not acting out of consideration for Mou State. The Yangshan Archipelago intended to conduct business with the entire world and would not tether itself solely to Mou State's war effort; otherwise, they would share a fate of prosperity or ruin. If its economic lifeline were entirely dependent on another nation, it would forever be at their mercy. Ultimately, it had to grow strong on its own.

Wang Xingyi considered this for a moment, then nodded with approval. "My boy, you have considerable ambition." These terms were also beneficial for Mou State, giving him greater confidence when lobbying the court.

"As for the second point," He Lingchuan said with a smile, "I still have no desire to become an official, but I do have a minor issue at present." He Lingchuan had long ago resolved not to accept an official position in Mou State, as doing so would place him entirely under Lingshan's control. Maintaining a friendly relationship while simultaneously keeping a distance from the organization was his preferred approach.

Wang Xingyi hummed in assent. "Go on," he said. He Lingchuan was undertaking this task for Lingshan, so naturally Lingshan would either bear the costs... or intervene on his behalf.

"I've only just arrived in Yangshan, and my position is still unstable; all the surrounding factions harbor ill will," He Lingchuan stated gravely. "If I leave to perform duties for Lingshan, there's no guarantee that Yangshan won't be exploited by outsiders."

At this, Wang Xingyi and Fang Canran exchanged glances. It would indeed be unacceptable, both logically and emotionally, if He Lingchuan were to perform duties for Lingshan only to have his own base attacked in his absence.

"You have conflicts with both Bailie and Qing State?"

He Lingchuan glanced at Fang Canran, who immediately explained, "After selling the Yangshan Archipelago to Brother He, the Lu family of Bailie regretted the decision and has been trying to reclaim it through various means."

He Lingchuan continued, "The Bailong people who caused tonight's disturbance received funding from Bailie. Ships, money, and weapons—all were provided by Bailie's covert support. Furthermore, the Beijia squad that captured the spider demon was connected through Bailie, allowing them to collude with the Bailong people."

Wang Xingyi's brow furrowed slightly upon hearing this. So, Bailie was also responsible for tonight's chaos?

Before either of them could speak, He Lingchuan earnestly stated, "As a newcomer, I naturally wished to establish good relations with all parties, but their malice towards me is simply too profound! They dared to act while I was still on the island; if I were to leave Yangshan to carry out duties elsewhere..."

"I thought it was something significant, but it's merely a simple matter," Wang Xingyi said, a mix of amusement and exasperation in his voice. "I can resolve this grievance for you, but you must not actively provoke any further disputes or conflicts." This young man was discerning in major affairs but seemed less clear-headed when it came to trivial matters affecting himself.

He Lingchuan nodded. "Indeed. All I desire is this small parcel of land, to establish a foothold and earn a livelihood."

Wang Xingyi scrutinized him for a moment, then abruptly suggested, "How about this: I'll personally write letters to both Blade Port and the Lu family, ensuring you and your business can move freely and unhindered in both locations?"

He Lingchuan was overjoyed. "For the Grand Master to intervene personally, that would be truly ideal!"

Wang Xingyi smiled and nodded, then shifted the topic. "However, you must also remember to maintain good neighborly relations, engage in more mutual exchanges with your surroundings, and never treat neighbors as adversaries! Bailie, you see, has historical ties with both Mou State and Lingshan, and I do not wish for you to engage in armed conflict with them."

He Lingchuan's heart jolted. Had the Grand Master seen through his intentions regarding Bailie? Why else would he specifically warn him? Yet, on the surface, he humbly replied, "I will certainly bear that in mind!"

With the first two conditions settled, it was time to address the main issue. Fang Canran rose and departed, not forgetting to close the door behind him. Even though he enjoyed Wang Xingyi's deep trust, the upcoming confidential matters were not for his ears.

"He Xiao," Wang Xingyi began solemnly, "after the ancient war between immortals and demons, the immortals established 'Lingshan' to maintain worldly order and pursue the remnants of the Heavenly Demons. Lingshan's founders included both high-ranking and ordinary immortals. However, in subsequent eras, spiritual energy gradually waned, rendering the world unsuitable for immortal existence. Some of Lingshan's immortals inevitably faded with time, but another portion—"

He Lingchuan pricked up his ears, realizing the crucial information was about to be revealed.

"—retreated into secret minor realms, known as 'Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands,' distancing themselves from this vast world afflicted by dwindling spiritual energy."

"Is there still spiritual energy within these Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands?"

"Some of these minor realms inherently generate a small amount of spiritual energy, though they can sustain only a limited number of beings. Other Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands experience time at a different rate than our world, thus spiritual energy dissipates more slowly within them."

"Theoretically, these Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands should have allowed the immortals to endure the period of decline, awaiting the next surge of spiritual energy," Wang Xingyi stated gravely. "However, Lingshan was unaware at the time that the Heavenly Demons had been secretly siphoning off human nightmare energy through the Tianluo Star. The spiritual energy surge that the immortals so desperately awaited never materialized. Consequently, the spiritual energy in some of the Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands where immortals resided eventually depleted, causing them to fall into an eternal slumber until they ultimately passed away."

A chill ran through He Lingchuan as he listened, immediately recalling the immortal's dwelling at the bottom of Immortal Spirit Lake. That place had once been a minor realm as well, but after its spiritual energy depleted, True Master Dongli, who resided within it, also passed away, never getting to see his revered master one last time in his life. These immortals were truly unfortunate, having been utterly trapped to perish within their own 'Cave Heavens and Blessed Lands,' with no chance of escape. What difference was there between this and a life sentence?