In a teahouse in a small town in Xiniu Hezhou.
A water screen hung on the wall. The patrons sat gathered around it, teacups in hand, their eyes fixed on the screen.
The teahouse owner stood behind the counter with a rag in hand, having forgotten to wipe the tables.
"This is grander than the Heavenly Court's banquets ever were."
A tea patron sighed.
Another patron chimed in.
"The Heavenly Court's banquets were internal gatherings for Di Jun and the others.
Why would they let you watch? Don't even think about it!
Farm Teachings is more generous. As long as you have a Farm Teachings Live Broadcast Jade Talisman, you can watch."
"Are Live Broadcast Jade Talismans expensive?"
"Not at all. Ten Spirit Stones each. According to Farm Teachings' Iron Hall Master, that's the cost price."
"Can Iron Hall Master's words be trusted?"
"This time, they can. They say it's because the Sect Master of Farm Teachings is keeping an eye on things."
The tea patrons burst into laughter.
In Beiju Luzhou, in a small tribe deep within the Ice Plain.
Clan members sat around a bonfire, while a water screen hovered in the center of the tents.
On the screen, Disciples of Jinao Island were entering. Auspicious Clouds drifted over one after another, blotting out the sky and sun.
A young hunter stared at the water screen, his eyes shining.
"Father, I want to join Farm Teachings."
The old hunter sat on an animal hide, turning a polished hunting knife over in his hand. He remained silent for a long while before finally speaking.
"If you leave, who will hunt?"
"The others in the tribe can hunt."
The old hunter fell silent for a moment, his fingertips rubbing over the uneven nicks in the blade.
"Go."
"Father?"
The young