Over the past ten days, Lin Rui had dedicated himself to mastering the first layer of the Greenwood Qi Technique. Slowly but surely, he could feel progress in his cultivation. Despite being labeled a "waste" due to his five-element roots, which made cultivation much harder, Lin Rui's relentless efforts, combined with his father Lin Yuntian's guidance and Chickpedia's tips, finally allowed him to consolidate his foundation.

Meanwhile, Lin Yuntian had been tirelessly investigating the source of the poison that had once afflicted Lin Rui, but to no avail. Strangely, this lack of progress gave Lin Rui some peace of mind—at least for now, things were calm, and no one had come looking for trouble. This suggested that whoever was behind the poisoning was lying low, biding their time. While Lin Rui still harbored suspicions about Lin Yueyao and Wang Ruohan, he resolved to wait until he became stronger before confronting them directly.

One morning, Lin Rui awakened from meditation and felt a faint tremor in his Dantian. That subtle, building pressure of energy within him stirred his excitement—he was on the verge of breaking through to the second level!

He jumped to his feet and hurried towards his father's study. With each step, the anticipation in his heart grew more robust, his pulse racing as if his blood was boiling in excitement.

Inside the study, Lin Yuntian was busy dealing with family matters. When Lin Rui suddenly pushed open the door, his father looked up, surprised, but smiled warmly.

"Rui'er, what's the matter?" Lin Yuntian asked gently.

Beaming joyfully, Lin Rui leaned close and whispered, "Dad, I've got good news! I think I'm about to break through to the second level!"

Lin Yuntian's eyes lit up instantly, his delight barely contained. "Really? That's amazing! Rui'er, you're breaking through!"

He stood up excitedly, giving Lin Rui's shoulder a proud pat. "You did it! All your hard work is paying off!"

Lin Rui nodded, trying to calm the excitement in his chest. "Yes, I can feel the energy stirring in my dantian. It should happen soon."

Lin Yuntian is brimming with joy. "Good! Good! Once you break through, we'll head to Drunken Immortal Tavern and have a proper celebration! It's been too long since I took you there to eat your fill. You used to love that place when you were little!"

"Drunken Immortal Tavern?" Lin Rui's heart felt a gentle warmth. In the original owner's childhood memories, he often visited the tavern with his father. It was the most renowned restaurant in Zhu Yun Town and one of the few places where the original Lin Rui experienced moments of genuine happiness. However, as Lin Yuntian became increasingly burdened with family responsibilities, these outings grew rarer.

Lin Rui smiled gratefully. "Alright! Once I break through, we'll celebrate at Drunken Immortal Tavern!"

"Of course! Focus on your cultivation, and don't worry about anything else. I'll stand guard for you," Lin Yuntian promised, his tone filled with affection and determination.

After thanking his father, Lin Rui returned to his room, sat cross-legged, and began preparing for the breakthrough. Though excitement buzzed within him, he forced himself to remain calm. He knew all too well that for someone with five-element roots, every breakthrough was more challenging than those with a single-element root. Each step demanded more effort and patience than what ordinary cultivators experienced.

Before starting, Lin Rui decided to consult Chickpedia once more. He places his hand over the small, chicken-shaped pendant on his chest and infuses it with a thread of spiritual energy. With a familiar flash of light, the ever-enthusiastic Chickpedia materialized before him.

"Hehehe! Host! Summoning me again? Let me guess—about to break through, right?" Chickpedia flapped its wings with pride, wearing its usual mischievous grin.

"You guessed it," Lin Rui chuckled. I'm on the verge of breaking through to the second level, but I want to double-check if I should be aware of anything.

"Ah, I knew it!" Chickpedia puffed out its tiny chest proudly. "No problem at all! Listen up—this little chicken will teach you everything you need to know to make your breakthrough smooth as butter!"

Lin Rui smiled and nodded, ready to focus as Chickpedia prepared to impart its wisdom.

Chickpedia straightened up confidently and responded: "Your spiritual energy is fully saturated. The next step is to guide the energy through your meridians and channel it into your Dantian, transforming it into spiritual power to complete the circulation and breakthrough. The key is to stay calm—maintain steady energy flow without rushing it."

After a brief pause, Chickpedia continued, "This is especially important when working with the 'Wood Spirit Seed' in the first layer of the Greenwood Qi Technique. Since you chose the 'Flourishing Power' path, which focuses on energy recovery, you need to visualize the seed sprouting and taking root inside you. Picture the spiritual power rising from the roots, gradually building a network that spreads through your entire body. Keep your mind calm and free of distractions when the flow accelerates."

"Got it. Thanks, little chicken!" Lin Rui listened intently, feeling more confident about the upcoming breakthrough.

"Hehe, trust in the Chick! If you follow my instructions, nothing can go wrong. You got this, Host!" Chickpedia gave a cheeky grin and fluttered its wings before its glowing form faded.

Lin Rui closed his eyes again, entering a meditative state. Following Chickpedia's advice, he adjusted his spiritual energy flow.

He inhaled deeply, calming his mind. Spiritual energy slowly gathered in his body, flowing like a gentle stream, gradually transforming into spiritual power. In his mind's eye, he imagined planting the Wood Spirit Seed—of course, it still looked like his trusty "potato seed." He visualized it settling into his Dantian, taking root, and sprouting. As external spiritual energy merged with it, the potato's roots extended, spreading through his meridians, turning into spiritual power that nourished every part of his body.

As Lin Rui delved deeper into his cultivation, he could feel his spiritual power becoming fuller and more vibrant. The energy flow increased, spreading smoothly throughout his entire system. His breathing steadied, and the spiritual power circulating through his meridians became even more seamless.

Then, suddenly, Lin Rui sensed a subtle resistance emerging from the other four elements within his body—fire, earth, water, and metal. Under the influence of the wood element, the other spiritual roots began to stir as if a storm was about to erupt.

"Stay calm, stay steady!" Lin Rui reminded himself, forcing his mind to remain composed. He focused all his attention on the growth of his potato seed, using his imagination to sketch the flow of energy through his meridians. Bit by bit, he directed the wood element to harmonize with the other elements instead of opposing them.

The turbulent energy gradually calmed, and Lin Rui could feel the potato taking root and flourishing in his mind. The spiritual power within him now flowed unhindered, no longer disrupted by the interference of the other roots.

As time passed, Lin Rui sensed a powerful wave of spiritual energy building up within him—a sign that the breakthrough was near.

Lost in his cultivation, time slipped away unnoticed. His spiritual power steadily accumulated within him until it felt like he was just a step away from shattering the final barrier.

Then, suddenly—BOOM!

A tremor erupted from his Dantian, and warmth radiated throughout his limbs and bones. The accumulated spiritual energy burst forth instantly, flooding his entire being.

"I did it!" Lin Rui opened his eyes, a joyful smile spreading across his face. His vision seemed sharper than ever, and he could hear the rustling of bamboo leaves and the faint flow of spiritual energy in the air. His entire body felt powerful, and his energy flowed smoothly as if every trace of impurity had been cleansed from his being.

He stood up, sensing the abundance of spiritual power coursing through him. Taking a deep breath, Lin Rui was overwhelmed with pride and a sense of accomplishment. The Second level—he had finally crossed this crucial threshold!

Stepping out of his room, Lin Rui spotted his father, Lin Yuntian, still meditating in the courtyard, standing guard over his son's breakthrough. At the sight, a wave of emotion rose in Lin Rui's heart.

"Dad, I did it! The second level!" Lin Rui called out excitedly, his face beaming with joy.

Lin Yuntian opened his eyes, stood up, and dusted off his robes, which were wrinkled from sitting for so long. When he saw Lin Rui's calm and stable aura, an uncontrollable joy sparkled in his eyes.

"Good! Rui'er, you did great! I knew you could do it!" Lin Yuntian said warmly, pride filling his voice.

With a smile, Lin Rui stepped closer, and Lin Yuntian affectionately patted his son on the shoulder, his expression filled with fatherly pride. "Come on! Let's head to Drunken Immortal Tavern and celebrate properly. Today, this meal is on me!"

"Alright! I've been craving Drunken Immortal Tavern for a while!" Lin Rui grinned, his heart light and carefree.

Father and son left their courtyard, strolling toward the town, side by side, ready to indulge in the long-awaited feast at the finest restaurant in Bamboo Cloud Town.

Drunken Immortal Tavern, the most renowned restaurant in Zhu Yun Town（Bamboo Cloud Town), had long been the top destination for gatherings and banquets among cultivators and aristocratic heirs. With its majestic architecture and spirit-infused delicacies, it was a place where many cultivators found it hard to leave. Towering with three stories, the building's eaves curved upward as if poised to take flight. At the same time, walls inlaid with emerald jade and spiritual wood shimmered in harmony as though the entire structure had been condensed from spiritual energy. When the breeze blew, the faint runes carved into the wooden walls pulse softly with a delicate glow, exuding an ethereal beauty.

Stolen novel; please report.

When Lin Rui and Lin Yuntian stepped into the tavern, they were greeted by a heady aroma of wine and the lively hum of conversation. Cultivators and noble heirs gathered in groups, dressed in various styles, but every robe was exquisitely tailored. Spiritual symbols gleamed faintly on their clothing, while magical artifacts hung discreetly at their waists. Every gesture was elegant, revealing their cultivation and noble backgrounds.

Lin Rui scanned the bustling scene, taking in the unique ambiance of the Drunken Immortal Tavern. This place was more than just a haven for fine food and drink. It is a symbol of power and status in the world of cultivation. The third floor was reserved exclusively for high-ranking cultivators and influential family members, where the air was rich with spiritual energy. Intricately carved jade inlays adorned the walls, their subtle glow flowing like water, lending the space an aura of mystery and grandeur.

"Dad, you promised to let me eat my fill today," Lin Rui teased with a playful grin. "And Drunken Immortal Tavern's plum wine is supposed to be the best. I have to have a good drink this time!"

Lin Yuntian chuckled, shaking his head. "Go ahead and drink all you want. But know, I won't show you any mercy tonight. If you don't get drunk, I won't stop pouring!"

As the two bantered cheerfully, a waiter dressed in flowing robes embroidered with dark spiritual patterns approached them with light, graceful steps. He bowed respectfully, his demeanor elegant, with restrained yet agile movements that hinted at the spiritual energy within him. "Please follow me to a private suite on the third floor," he said, holding out a jade token inscribed with glowing runes. It floated gently ahead of him, guiding the way through the bustling main hall toward the upper floors.

However, a familiar voice called out as they stepped onto the second floor.

"Lin Rui, Uncle Lin."

Lin Rui furrowed his brow slightly and instinctively turned around. Approaching him with unhurried steps was Wang Ruohan, dressed in a jade-white robe, a light cyan jade pendant resting elegantly on his chest. His refined and graceful appearance and poised demeanor drew the attention of many other noble heirs nearby. His tall, slender frame and the serene elegance in every movement conveyed the bearing unique to cultivators, commanding admiration from those around him. However, for Lin Rui, Wang Ruohan's presence stirred a vague sense of discomfort deep within.

"Hello, Rouhan." Lin Rui greeted him perfunctorily, his tone indifferent, though his heart was filled with cold detachment. As the memories from the body's original owner resurfaced, he recalled the concealed duplicity behind Wang Ruohan's seemingly warm smile. Although the young man radiated courtesy and charm on the surface, Lin Rui had already discerned the concealed emotions buried deep within him.

Lin Yuntian, however, maintained a polite front, recognizing the delicate nature of the familial relationship between the two families. They didn't hold high positions within the Lin family, leaving them unable to control many matters... With a faint smile, Lin Yuntian asked, "Ruohan, how has your cultivation progressed lately? Is your father in good health?"

Wang Ruohan, his expression still marked by that habitual modest smile, responded in a gentle tone, "Thanks to Uncle Lin's blessings, my father is doing well. Recently, I've had some good fortune and managed to break through to the fourth level, though I still have much to improve. Uncle Lin's cultivation has advanced steadily—I truly admire your progress."

Lin Yuntian responded with a soft chuckle and a wave of his hand. "I wouldn't say that. We older cultivators are just trying to maintain the status quo. It's you younger ones with your bright futures ahead of you who are making real progress."

Standing silently to the side, Lin Rui listened to the "pleasantries" exchanged between them, but boredom began to rise inwardly. Although Wang Ruohan's words were laced with concern, there was a subtle undertone of superiority that left Lin Rui feeling cold. He observed Wang Ruohan, a trace of a sneer forming in his mind. This man wore an exquisite mask, concealing his true nature so skillfully that it was difficult to discern his real intentions.

"Lin Rui, you need to push yourself in your cultivation. Don't let the family down," Wang Ruohan said with a smile, his words tinged with a faint semblance of care. But to Lin Rui, it sounded more like a lofty reminder from someone looking down at him.

Lin Rui offered a faint smile in return, his voice calm. "Thank you for the advice, Master Wang. I'll do my best." His eyes glinted with a hint of coldness, though he maintained a courteous demeanor, carefully concealing that he had just broken through to the second level.

Noticing Lin Rui's polite yet distant response, Wang Ruohan made no further effort to engage. He cupped his hands respectfully. "I have other matters to attend to, Uncle Lin, Lin Rui. Let's catch up another time." He gave them one last warm smile before turning and leaving.

Lin Yuntian watched Wang Ruohan's departing figure before turning to look at Lin Rui. There was a trace of weariness and complexity in his eyes. While he maintained a polite attitude towards Wang Ruohan, it was evident that he, too, had reservations about the arranged marriage between the two families.

As they resumed their walk to the third floor, Lin Yuntian couldn't help but break the silence once they reached the private suite. "Rui'er, be honest with me. What do you think of Wang Ruohan? You two are engaged, but as your father, I want to know—do you have any feelings for him?"

Lin Rui was momentarily stunned, surprised by his father's sudden question. He fell silent for a moment, then decided to be honest. "Dad, I've never liked him. Even though he seems gentle and refined on the surface, I always feel that he's too fake. I've never wanted to go through with this marriage." He lifted his head to meet Lin Yuntian's gaze, his eyes brimming with determination. "I want to be with someone I truly love."

Lin Yuntian let out a long sigh, his expression tinged with helplessness. "I understand how you feel, but some things are beyond our control. The Lin family doesn't hold much power within the clan, and these marriage alliances aren't something we can decide ourselves. Still, since you're truly unwilling, I'll do my best to find a way to help you."

Lin Rui felt warmth in his heart, moved by his father's care. He nodded, his resolve growing stronger. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll handle this matter myself. But the time isn't right yet—let's enjoy our meal for now."

Seeing Lin Rui's unwavering stance, Lin Yuntian didn't press the issue further. With a flick of his finger, a strand of spiritual energy activated the green crystal on the table, causing it to emit a soft glow. The private room door creaked open, and the waiter entered, his face adorned with a polite smile. "Sirs, what can I get for you today?"

Lin Rui couldn't help but feel slightly surprised—so this crystal was a device to summon waitstaff. Its function was oddly reminiscent of modern technology.

After a brief moment of thought, Lin Yuntian spoke. "We'll have five signature meat dishes, three vegetable dishes, and a jar of Drunken Immortal Tarven's Plum Wine."

"Right away, gentlemen. The dishes will be served shortly." The waiter quickly jotted down the order and efficiently exited the room.

Not long after, the table was filled with an assortment of delicious dishes—roasted spirit beast ribs, steamed fish wrapped in green bamboo leaves, braised fiery cloud bird wings, and spicy diced rabbit leg, each dish brimming with spiritual energy and tantalizing aromas. The entire private room was permeated with a rich fragrance, and even the air seemed to ripple slightly with the flow of spiritual power.

Lin Rui picked up a rib and took a bite. The tender meat melted in his mouth, and the spiritual energy spread through his body as if each bite was a miniature cultivation session. He couldn't help but exclaim, "Dad, the Drunken Immortal Tarven lives up to its reputation!" really lives up to its reputation!"

Lin Yuntian chuckled and nodded. "Indeed. It's been a while since I've been back from my travels. I hadn't had time to bring you here, so let's enjoy ourselves today."

The atmosphere gradually lightened as the father and son chatted over their meal. However, Lin Rui's mind couldn't fully relax. Midway through the meal, he felt a slight fullness in his stomach and turned to his father. "Dad, I need to head to the restroom for a moment. I'll be right back."

Lin Yuntian grinned. "Go ahead, but don't blame me if I finish your share!"

With a smile, Lin Rui stood up, left the private room, and went to the restroom on the second floor. On the way, he caught sight of a familiar figure—Wang Ruohan. The young man was stepping out of another private room; his expression calmed as he walked toward a separate room on the second floor.

"Why would Wang Ruohan leave his private room to go downstairs?" Lin Rui's suspicion sparked instantly. Without hesitation, he followed, though he deliberately slowed his pace, pretending to stroll aimlessly to avoid drawing attention.

The private rooms on the second floor were lined up one after another. As Lin Rui glanced casually through the translucent screens, he suddenly caught sight of Lin Yueyao seated in one of the rooms. She was chatting with several female cultivators, with Wang Ruohan calmly sitting beside her, appearing at ease. However, an indescribable tension in the air made Lin Rui's heart sink.

"So it's her... Their relationship isn't as simple as it seems." Lin Rui suppressed his unease and quickly continued toward the restroom.

After finishing his business, Lin Rui went downstairs to gather more information. He approached one of the attendants and asked in a low voice, "I just saw Wang Ruohan go into one of the private rooms on the second floor. Do you know who he was meeting?"

The attendant responded with a friendly smile, unaware of the implications behind Lin Rui's inquiry. "Good day, Young Master Lin Rui. He went to see Miss Lin Yueyao and her friends. They often come here to gather, and Young Master Wang occasionally joins them."

Lin Rui nodded, concealing his thoughts. Although he asked no further questions, the weight of his suspicions only grew. Wang Ruohan and Lin Yueyao's connection seemed far more complicated than it appeared on the surface.

"It looks like I'll need to investigate this matter thoroughly once I return," Lin Rui thought, a plan forming in his mind.

When Lin Rui returned to the private room, his expression remained composed, but turbulence swirled in his heart. Lin Yuntian noticed his son's subtle change and asked with concern, "Rui'er, what's wrong? You don't seem yourself after coming back."

Lin Rui paused for a moment, setting down his chopsticks. His voice was calm but carried a hint of gravity. "Dad, I just saw Wang Ruohan leave his room and go into a private room on the second floor. Lin Yueyao was inside."

Lin Yuntian's expression shifted slightly, and his brow furrowed. "Yueyao? Do you think something's going on between them?"

Lin Rui remained silent, lost in thought. After a moment, he lowered his voice. "I've suspected for a while now that their relationship isn't simple. I didn't want to jump to conclusions, but after what I saw today, they're hiding something from us. The last time I saw them talking, Lin Yueyao's gaze toward me was... strange, like she was concealing something."

Lin Rui's fists clenched slightly under the table. "I need to find out the truth, whatever it takes."

Lin Yuntian's expression gradually grew solemn as he listened. "If you're saying it is true, then this is no simple matter. Your Third Uncle Lin Tiande holds considerable influence within the family, and Yueyao, as his daughter, is not someone to be underestimated."

"I suspect they might be involved in some hidden agenda," Lin Rui said, his brow furrowing deeply.

Lin Yuntian gave a slow, thoughtful nod. "You've always had sharp instincts. If you're uneasy about this, then it's worth paying attention. Though you and Wang Ruohan are betrothed by arrangement, the relationship between you two has never been close. Strangely, if he's involved with Lin Yueyao, why haven't they taken steps to dissolve your engagement?"

A glint of coldness flashed in Lin Rui's eyes. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll investigate this discreetly and won't act recklessly."

After a moment of contemplation, Lin Yuntian patted Lin Rui's shoulder, his voice firm. "No matter what, don't let yourself get into danger. If anything happens, come to me immediately."

Lin Rui nodded, feeling the warmth from his father's concern. "I will, Dad."

Though the rest of their meal passed peacefully on the surface, Lin Rui's mind was already in turmoil. What hidden truths lay behind the seemingly calm façade of the family's affairs? One thing was sure—his investigation would not be an easy journey.