A New Beginning, A True Home

Qian Lingche and his companions stood before a vast, undulating mountain range, lost in thought as they gazed at the magnificent scenery before them.

Shi Yi sighed, his tone tinged with helplessness: "Little Che, were we too impulsive? We should have found someone to handle the construction before coming here."

Qian Lingche gave a wry smile and shook his head: "It was indeed a bit rushed, but since we are already here, we must find a way to resolve it."

Just as they were pondering how to begin, the sound of hoofbeats and rolling carriage wheels echoed from the distance.

The group turned to look, only to see Ning Fengzhi approaching with a massive, bustling entourage.

Qian Lingche was somewhat surprised and stepped forward: "Uncle Ning, Sword Douluo, Jingchen? What brings you all here..."

Ning Fengzhi chuckled, his gaze resting warmly on Qian Lingche: "Little Che, I guessed you left in a hurry and weren't prepared, so I've already had construction materials gathered. Have a look and see where you think it's best to build your sect."

Though he knew the motives behind Ning Fengzhi's running about, who could refuse help offered in a time of need?

A flicker of gratitude crossed Qian Lingche's eyes, and he quickly said: "Uncle Ning, this... how could I impose?"

Ning Fengzhi waved his hand: "You child, why be so formal with me? The Seven Treasures Glazed Sect and your group are allies; if you have a need, we naturally must help."

"Besides, Jingchen and you are friends. This is a small matter, not worth mentioning."

Ning Jingchen, standing to the side, also walked up with a smile and patted Qian Lingche on the shoulder: "That's right, Lingche. Do we really need to be so distant between us?"

"Look at these mountains; the terrain is steep and the scenery is beautiful. The materials we brought are more than enough for you to build an impressive sect."

Qian Lingche smiled: "Then I shall trouble you, Uncle Ning."

With that, he turned to introduce his companions to Ning Fengzhi. Guang Ling and Ling Yuan had already met him, so no introductions were needed.

He pointed to the person leaning against a tree in the distance, eyes closed in meditation; that was Shi Yi, also a Titled Douluo.

He did not mention Shi Yi's rank, assuming that even Sword Douluo would be unable to discern it, sensing only that Shi Yi was formidable.

Qian Lingche then gestured toward Ji Lin at his side and said with a smile: "This is Ji Lin, a Platinum Bishop who follows me, and also my head steward."

"He is meticulous and thorough in his work; with him here, I have far fewer troubles." Ji Lin stepped forward and bowed to Ning Fengzhi: "Greetings, Sect Master Ning. Many thanks for your assistance."

Ning Fengzhi nodded with a smile: "Little Che, you truly are surrounded by talent. Your future is bound to be limitless."

Though he said this aloud, in his heart, he felt he had struck gold. A young master with a good temperament and three Titled Douluo—having such neighbors was truly reassuring.

He had prepared the construction materials ever since returning from Heaven Dou City, though he hadn't expected Qian Lingche to move so quickly.

Qian Lingche replied politely: "Uncle Ning is too kind. The Seven Treasures Glazed Sect is the one with a truly promising future—a sect with wealth rivaling a nation, two Titled Douluo presiding, and countless outstanding disciples..."

Time flowed by like water, and in the blink of an eye, two months had passed.

Within this vast mountain range, a magnificent sect had risen from the ground. The massive complex of buildings covered half the mountain, its imposing scale truly breathtaking.

Because everyone present was a spirit master, the construction efficiency was far greater than that of ordinary people.

Ji Lin oversaw the entire project, arranging everything in perfect order. The disciples of the Seven Treasures Glazed Sect brought by Ning Fengzhi also contributed their efforts, making the entire construction process orderly and highly efficient.

Qian Lingche stood on an observation deck at the highest point of the sect, overlooking the scene before him, his heart filled with deep emotion.

This sect would be his new home from now on. He finally had a home of his own...

The sect was built into the mountains, its architectural style ancient and grand, yet possessing a certain nimble beauty.

The main hall towered into the clouds, surrounded by several auxiliary halls and training grounds, along with patches of lush gardens, as if nature and architecture had been perfectly fused together.

Ning Fengzhi walked to Qian Lingche's side and said with a smile: "Little Che, how is this sect? Are you satisfied?"

Qian Lingche nodded, his tone full of admiration: "Uncle Ning, this sect is even better than I imagined. Many thanks for the help of the Seven Treasures Glazed Sect."

Ning Fengzhi waved his hand: "Little Che, there is no need for such formality. From now on, we are neighbors; helping one another is only right."

"Besides, seeing you able to settle down here makes me feel relieved."

After a moment's thought, Qian Lingche said: "Uncle Ning, from now on, this place shall be called the 'Eternal Night Frost Song Hall'."

Ning Fengzhi nodded upon hearing this: "'Eternal Night Frost Song Hall'—a fine name! Little Che, it seems you have placed great expectations on this sect."

Qian Lingche smiled and waved his hand: "With only these few people, what kind of sect is it? I just thought it sounded nice."

"Uncle Ning, rest assured, I know what you are thinking. From this day forward, the Eternal Night Frost Song Hall will protect the Seven Treasures Glazed Sect."

Qian Lingche lay lazily on his bed, his face propped up by his hands, sighing in boredom: "So boring... Brother Ling is in seclusion, Brother Yi is in seclusion, even Sister Ling Yuan has gone into seclusion."

He rolled over, lying flat on his bed, staring blankly at the ceiling.

Qian Lingche pouted and muttered to himself: "Should I... go into seclusion too? Forget it, cultivation is so dull, and I'm so bored right now—there isn't even anyone to talk to."

He sat up, his gaze sweeping across the room, when his eyes suddenly lit up: "Right, Ji Lin should still be busy, right? Why not go find him for a chat and see how the affairs of the Hall are being handled?"

Thinking of this, Qian Lingche immediately jumped off the bed, straightened his clothes, pushed open the door, and walked out.

In the corridor, sunlight spilled through the window lattices onto the floor, casting patches of dappled light and shadow.

"Ji Lin!"

Ji Lin was standing in the main hall, speaking in low tones with several subordinates.

Just then, he heard someone call his name. He turned to look and saw it was Qian Lingche.

Ji Lin immediately bowed, his tone respectful as he said, "Palace Master, why have you come?"

Qian Lingche waved a hand, a lazy smile playing on his face: "Boredom, that's all. Brother Ling and the others are all in seclusion; there isn't even anyone to talk to. What are you discussing?"

Ji Lin smiled slightly and explained, "Reporting to the Palace Master, we are currently discussing the development plan for the next stage."

"The palace is basically complete, but there are still many details that need to be perfected."

"For instance, the defensive formations, the acquisition and distribution of cultivation resources, and how to handle relations with surrounding factions—all of these need to be implemented as soon as possible."

Qian Lingche nodded, a glimmer of approval flashing in his eyes: "You've worked hard. It's truly a relief to have you here."

Qian Lingche looked at Ji Lin and suddenly asked, "Ji Lin, haven't you been at level 89 for quite some time now? You should be close to breaking through to Titled Douluo, right?"

Ji Lin was slightly taken aback, then nodded: "Reporting to the Palace Master, that is indeed the case."

"Recently, I have felt my soul power loosening; perhaps I will be able to attempt a breakthrough before long."

Qian Lingche nodded: "Mm, breaking through to level 90 is the key. You can leave the palace affairs to those below for now."

"Focus your energy on preparing for the breakthrough; there is no need to worry too much about other matters."

He paused, a hint of a smile flashing in his eyes: "Once you break through, I will have Brother Ling and the others take you to hunt for a soul ring. They will certainly be able to help you find the most suitable one."

Upon hearing this, a trace of gratitude appeared in Ji Lin's eyes: "Many thanks for your concern, Palace Master. This subordinate will certainly not fail your expectations. I will break through as soon as possible to add to your strength."

Qian Lingche waved his hand, his tone relaxed: "No need to be so formal. You have given so much for me; naturally, I must support you with all my might."

"Once you become a Titled Douluo, our strength will take another massive leap forward."