Through the ages, the one true hardship was facing death.
Whether mortal or cultivator, few could face death calmly.
Duan Shengping clearly could not.
Chen Lin liked people like that. As long as they had desires, they were easy to control.
"I can indeed help you, but the price is steep. You'll have to offer me your loyalty."
He looked at Duan Shengping and spoke calmly.
To extend his lifespan, Duan Shengping had risked a brush with death exploring the Nightmare Realm. Now that he saw a chance to survive, he seized it without hesitation.
Disregarding his aged appearance and status as a lineage patriarch, he lifted his robes and dropped to his knees.
"This humble Duan Shengping is willing to acknowledge you as my master, my lord. I will serve at your command for the rest of my life, without a word of complaint!"
Chen Lin nodded slightly.
"Get up. Words alone are no proof. You'll also need to sign a Nightmare Realm Contract."
The words of a demonic cultivator with little lifespan remaining could not be trusted. Only a powerful contract could safely bind him.
Still, Chen Lin did not need his absolute loyalty. He would first have him collect spirit-exterminating beads, then decide whether to keep him around.
Duan Shengping also knew the contract was unavoidable, and calmly left his imprint on it.
A Nightmare Realm Contract was more powerful than the vast majority of contracts.
Chen Lin frequently used this kind of master-servant contract and soon finished drafting it. Once it was signed, he smiled.
"Very good. My name is Chen Lin. From now on, you're my subordinate. I've always treated my subordinates well. As long as you work loyally and don't betray me, you won't miss out on any benefits you deserve."
"Thank you, my