"Kid, this is the residence of our Purple Cloud Sect's Alchemy lineage!"
The old man in green robe flew through the air with Li Yu, and ranges of mountains and valleys appeared below them. Misty clouds churned as a faint fragrance of medicinal herbs spread through the air, refreshing the mind.
"According to sect rules, new disciples must begin as medicine boys. Only after becoming familiar with the changes of plants and mastering their medicinal properties can they become alchemists—that is, official disciples of the Alchemy lineage."
The old man in green robe pointed at an enormous valley ahead and said to Li Yu, "That is one of the Pill Valleys where medicine boys reside."
Descending from the air, the old man in green robe led Li Yu into the enormous valley, which spanned nearly a hundred li.
Aside from all manner of buildings, the valley was filled with medicinal herbs covering the mountains and fields.
Alchemists catalyzed herbs themselves when refining pills, so there was no need to cultivate them. However... catalyzing herbs also required seeds. Thus, the Alchemy lineage's territory was planted with medicinal herbs everywhere.
"You will stay here. I'll arrange for someone to deliver your identity token and the Purple Cloud Spiritual Art cultivated by medicine boys."
After bringing Li Yu to a Bamboo Tower, the old man in green robe pointed to it and said, "Settle in first. Every morning, alchemists will come to teach the Way of Grass and Trees. You must study diligently. I am Xu Qian, the steward of this Pill Valley. Come find me anytime if you need anything."
"Thank you, Senior!"
Li Yu cupped his hands in salute. "This junior will take his leave!"
"Go on, go on!"
Xu Qian nodded with a smile, though inwardly he was wild with