Outer Sect, Crimson Flame Peak, Ice and Fire Cave.
Ever since Jiang Yi had reached the fifth level of Qi Refining, he had seldom come here.
It was not that he thought his status had risen and refused to sit with ordinary Mortal Laborers. Rather, after opening his Origin Gate and establishing his Inner Manor, his cultivation furnace cauldron needed to draw in and expel more Spiritual Qi and spirit chance to advance his cultivation and deepen his attainment.
A bowl of Spirit Rice that had once left him perfectly satisfied was no longer enough.
Today, the old acquaintances from the Large Compound had gathered together.
Jiang Yi sat at the head of the table, the Calico Cat tucked against his chest. He Laohun and Widow Qin sat on either side of him, while Old Li and his family huddled close together across from him.
Steam rose from the table. Two copper pots bubbled on charcoal stoves, with a dozen or so plates and dishes arranged beside them.
Translucently thin slices of raw fish, tender beef and lamb, and fresh, delicate tofu were theirs to boil or grill to their liking and feast on to their hearts' content.
"Brother Li making it back alive from this trip down the mountain was truly a blessing amid misfortune."
He Laohun raised his tea bowl and took a sip in toast, then picked up some vegetables and put them in his bowl. "Listen to a word of advice from me, you two," he said earnestly. "Now your contract's up, head down the mountain and find some easier work. There's no end to the Talisman Money you could earn. Don't always think about working yourselves to death for your child. We ought to live properly ourselves too, shouldn't we?"
Widow Qin usually loved teasing