Fortunately, apart from those taboos, Zhao Kong, the King of Yue, was quite tolerant in other matters.
He knew he had uses for the Incense Path and was preparing to rely on its power.
Li Ling had sent Zhu Lisheng here to develop a local power base and let it grow under its own strength, rather than depend on a distant lifeline from the Incense Path's ancestral seat. Thus, there was no money to be had, but requests for personnel, land, and favorable policies were readily granted.
Zhu Lisheng immediately agreed with him on their next steps. The first task was to establish workshops and recruit apprentices.
Zhao Kong generously gave him an entire commercial street in Ancient Yue City, designating it as an Incense Market that would also sell all manner of mortal and immortal goods and incense products, making it convenient for them to purchase incense materials and spices.
Zhu Lisheng had brought some seeds from the North Sea, including fragrant pepper, castor, and cold fragrant mushroom, varieties found only overseas. They could try introducing these as cash crops, and Zhao Kong would use the authorities' resources to help make it happen.
Other arrangements, such as accompanying troops into battle and supplying military provisions, were also implemented one by one according to plan.
Near a demon kingdom stronghold in the Soul-Rending Mountain region, Li Ling drifted through the mountain forests like a ghost, his soul projected from his body.
He had already circled the vicinity several times. Gazing at the mountain encampment several miles away, he had actually sensed layers of restrictions resembling the protection of a grand array. When he approached, a nearly tangible obstructing force manifested, preventing him from entering.
"According to legend, kings, nobles, generals, and ministers all possess the aura of exalted personages,